FARMING & COMMERCIAL

Dominion, Volume 14, Issue 232, 25 June 1921, Page 10

FARMING & COMMERCIAL

NEWS AND NOTES

AUCTION SALES FORTHCOMING FIXTURES. TO-DAY. 137 Lambton Quay, Wellington, 9.30 a.m.— Meat sale (ijodgldna, Carver). Unia Street, Lower Hutt. 1.30 p.m.—Furniture sale (H. E. Leighton). MONDAY. East Road, Shannon, 11 a.m. —Sale of stock and implements (Abraham and Williams). 157 .Lambton Quay, Wellington. 1.30 p.m.— Sale of unclaimed goods (Johnston and Co.). TUESDAY. 157 Lambton Quay, Wellington, 10.30 a.m. Sale of crockery (Johnston and Co.). East Road. Shp.nnon. 11 a.m.—Sale of stock and implements (Abraham and, AV ilnams) Kaiwaiwai, 11 a.m. —Sale of stock and implements (Wright, «Stephenson). Town Hall. Waipukurau, 11 a.m—Land sale (Murray, Roberts). Levin Yards, 12 noon.—Stock sale. Spring Grove, Marton 12 noon.—bale of fitocß and implements fMUrray, Roberts). 137 Lambton Quay, Welhagton, 2.30 p.m.— Property sale (Hodgkin’s, Carver).

BREED SOCIETIES

CATTLE AND SHEEP ANNUAL MEETINGS HELD The annual meetings of many breeders’ societies have been held in Palmerston Korth'TTiis week, advantage being taken of the large attendance of farmers at the national dairy show. FRIESIAN ASSOCIATION. Mr. G. Troup presided over the annual meeting of the Now Zealand Friesian.' Association, which was held on Wednesday evening. Tlie balance-sheet disclosed that the association’s assets amounted to X 3325. In moving the adoption of the annual report, the president said that during the past year there had been progress all along the line The membership baa increased, as had also the entries in the herd book—both male and female. The number of cows under semi-official test had almost doubled. There had also been an increase in the number ot cattie exported, and he was confident khat there was a groat future before the Dominion as a brooding country. Officers were elected as follow President, Mr. W. D. Hunt (Wellington); vicepresidents, Messrs. J. Liggins (Palmerston North) and G. Aiteliison (Knttanguta); treasurer, Mr. J. Liggins; auditor, Mr. P. L. Sims; members of counts, Messrs. W. E. Gill (Upper Hutt), H. 11. Green (Palmerston North); H. E'. Johnson (Hawera), and J. H. Parkinson (Opotiki). One hundred and sixty new members were elected, and a number of now herd names were approved. It was decide.;? to employ a full-time secretary. On the motion of Mr. Marchant (I»ranaki) it was decided to recommend the council to establish an advanced register o* merit, the minimum requirement of butter-fat to lie double the standard required to receive the C.O.R. It was also resolved that the council meet quarterly in the different centres. Another remit adopted recommended the appointment of an official demonstrator. The president reported that the council Had discussed the question of Derbycandidates. It was found that the existing regulations would probably extend the competition over three years. It was, therefore, decided to give the prize to the two-year-old that completed her test by December 31, 1923, and the next would be completed by December 31, 1924. and one each year thereafter. This would obviate two or three competitions being on at the same time. The president said that it would: be a splendid idea if their finances would permit of a judge being brought out from Holland to judge through the shows in New Zealand, and to follow this up in the following years with visits of judges from America and England. Members generally approved of the idea as one worthy of future consideration. HEREFORD BREEDERS. The New Zealand Hereford Cattle Breeders’ Association hold their annuat meeting at the Breeders’ Club. Mr. C. A. J. Levett was in the chair. The annual report and balance-sheet (already published) were adopted. The number of councilmen was increased to

nine. The following officers were elected:— President, Mr. A. Swift; vice-president, Mr. H. M. Campbell, M.P.; treasurer, Mr. 11. J. Dagg; auditor, Mr. A. If. Maguire: vice-president for South Island, Mr A Holmes; five members of council, Messrs. C. J. C. Levett, 11. B. Stuckey, D. M'Kenzie, J. M. James, G. M'Gregor. RED POLL BREEDERS. There was a good attendance of breeders of red poll cattle at a meeting held on Wednesday to consider the formation of a red poll association. Mr G. D. M'Farlane was in the chair. Mr. J. L. Bruce, of the Agricultural Department, addressed Hie meeting on the value of the red poll, and he placed this breed as first in order of merit. On the motion of Mr. N. Tnder (.Dannovirke) it was decided to form a. Red Poll Cattle Breeders’ Association, and a committee was set up to go mto the matter of preparing the rules and objects of the association. q’he following officers were elected:— Patron. Dr. Brakes; president Sir Heaton Rhodes: vice-presidents. Messrs. •• L Bruce and G. D. M'Farlanej counci , Messrs. Tnder, Foster-Pratt, W. J.M (,ulloeh A. E. .Anderson. Harris. Baldin.,, Gotliop, Bendel, Strachan, and Quint™ Donald; secretary and treasurer Mr. - • Tnder. Sll EEP-BREEDERS’ ASSt)<’ TATION. The annual general meeting of the New Zealand Sheep-breeders A . (North Island) was presided over by - • - S. R. Lancaster. , According to the presidents report there had been a slight falling-off of membership during the year f ’ le sll, !”P in the wool and mutton markets having apparently frightened a few members out of the stud business. It was hoped that the set-back which the sheep nidustry had experienced would not last lor any considerable period. Already signs were not wanting that a revival was npproae Jing, prices beginning io harden m both (bo wool and meat markets. In the ci cuin’tances Southdown breeders, nio comprised the maioritv of the members would be well advised to stick to their docks to keep them ”P lo ' ,,e h ’ gl|e< ' t standard possible. Mr B R Lancaster was re-elected president, and Mr. H. B president. Mo”r“. E. Barribal , H. J. Dagg, and IV. Gimblett were elected to fill th" vacancies on the council. Mr. P. L. Sim was reappointed auditor, Mr. J Knight was appointed delegate to the coming Agricultural Conference at Wellington. F'fli'en new members were c.ectert, most of them being Southdown breeders. It was derided to recommend the council to increas'- the charge for the flock book to a sum equal Io the cost ol printing.

ABER PEEK ANGUS ASSOCIATION. A general meeting of the New Zealand Aberdeen Angus Breeders’ Association was held on Wednesday evening. Mr. B. Lowes presided over a good attendance.

A letter was received from the Hawke’s Bay A. and P. Association, stating that the Major Silver Medals donated by the Scottish Aberdeen Angus Society had

been allocated to the "champion group" (bull and four females). The letter of the secretary of the Scottish Society was read, and it was pointed out that he asked that the medal be awarded "to the beat animal.” It was unanimously decided that tlio matter be referred to the Hawke’s Bay A. and I’. Society, with the following recommendation: "That no special class be set up, but that at the end of the judging the judge shall award tho Major Silver Medal to the best animal shown, irrespective of age or sex.” The question of branding pedigree stock was discussed, and a letter in connection therewith was received from the Government Inspector of Stock, who stated that nothing in the Act "obliges anyone to brand any cattle running upon se-curely-fenced lands.” Mr. Ellinghnm pointed out that tho association required under its conditions of entry that every ‘beast must be firebranded with a station number, but a man might have two beasts, purchased from different owners, carrying the same station number. The speaker argued that in the course of time confusion might arise unless the registered siation brand was also affixed to every beast. The secretary was instructed to enforce registration of owners’ brands, and to draw members’ attention to the condition which states that all pedigree cattle be firebranded with a station number, in addition to the registered station brand. On Mr. Ellingham’s motion it was resolved that all imported cattle should be distinctly branded. A deputation from tho North Island Dog Trial Association waited on the meeting with regard to the disqualification by the Manawatu A. and P. Association of Mr. D. G. Grant from exhibiting a dog in the trials run under its auspices. After hearing a statement of the position it .was resolved: "That this association has suspended Mr. Grant, but does not presume to dictate to any other association what course they shall pursue.” A communication was received from the Dannevirke A. and P. Association, asking that Mr. Grant be given an opportunity to appear before the meeting with regard to his disqualification. After a lengthy discussion it was resolved: "That this meeting approves of the decision of the council in regard to the suspension of Mr. Grant, and of his ini ported cattle/* The financial statement for year ended August 31 showed an estimated profit of xioo.

The meeting decided to ask the council to leave the herd book open for a neriod of twelve months from date, for the purpose of allowing allegedly eligible herds to be entered, such herds to be inspected by Messrs. Cowan and Toxward.

POULTRY BREEDERS’. At the nineteenth annual meeting of the North Island Poultry. Pige6n and Canary Association Mr. W. Cullen presided.

According to the annual report, notwithstanding the apparent scarcity of fowl feed at the commencement of the season, poultry men, by judicious use of other grain than wheat, had been able to keep their flocks together. The prospects in connection with the feed question looked much brighter for the coming season. The division of the championship into one for male and one for female had, so far ns was known, met with the approval of every society but one. Previously a male bird was invariably awarded the championship, but under the new system both had a fair chance of obtaining equal honours. It was to bo regretted that the Huntly Show of 1920 had been a failure from a financial point of view. The general public showed little sympathy, and were conspicuous by their absence. . There was little prospect of a show being held there this season.

It was decided that the headquarters of the association bo at Palmereton North. Officers were elected as follw —President, Mr. J. Jarvis: vice-presidents,. Messrs. C. P. Robert and W. Cullen; treasurer, Mr. A. E. Drane; secretary, Mr. S. AVliitehend; two councillors, Messrs. W. E. Griffiths and A. Stubbs.

MILKING SHORTHORNS. The annual meeting of the Milking Shorthorn Association was held on Thursday. Mr. A. AV. Green, president, in the chair, and a full attendance, of members. The president, in his report, referred to the formation of branches in Canterbury. Southland, Marlborough, and Franklin, which had stimulated interest. in the breed in those districts, and he was pleased to report increased interest in. all parts of the DominionThe finances were in a highly satisfactory position. They had A 11960 invested in War Loan Certificates and JC6I6 on fixed deposit, and their membership was steadily increasing—sB7 financial members. He congratulated the members on the excellent records obtained in semiofficial tests. Over 70 milking Shorthorns had been under tests this season, and one class leader had reached over 7OOIK of butter-fat. The election of officers resulted as follows:*—President, Mr. J. R. Anderson; vice-presi-dents. Messrs. J. Parkinson and S. Mor. gun, Messrs. J. Hearscy and R. V. Brown, retiring members of the council, were re-elected unopposed. Mr. Green, in retiring from the. chair, thanked the members for the loyal support accorded him during his term of office, and wished the association continued success. Mr. .1. R. Anderson thanked the members ■•'or the honour conferred on him. The committee set up to report regarding semi-official test, prizes submitted the following recommendation : —"That a special prize of 4150 he awarded the first cow in each of the classes that, completes her semi-official test and gains a first-class certificate for the following standards nf butter-fat :—Junior, two-year-old, 4501 b.; senior, two-year-old, 5001 b.; junior, three-year-old,; 5501 b. senior, three-year-old. 6001 b.: junior, fonr-year-old, 6501 b.; senior, four-year-old. 7001 b.; mature class. SOOlb. The report, after considerable discussion, was adopted. The notice of motion by Mr. E. Law regarding granting of certificates of record for cows artificially fed and milked more than twice a day was discussed, hut no motion proposed. Air. J. Hodges moved:—“That the council offer n subsidy up to ,C2;>o for the importation of three milking Shorthorn bulls of recognised type, subject to certain conditions to be drawn up. After discussion the matter was bold over for the next general mooting; n committee was sot up to bring up a report on same. The. motion proposed by Mr. Hodges—that all judges of milk.i.ng Shorthorn classes at A. and P. “hows be requested to give a dnmoiistr.'A'nn in nf least one of the classes after judging same —was carried without dissent. Considerable discussion ensued on the quoriion of accepting blacknosed cuttle for registration in the herd bonk. and it was ovcnlimlly decided that i' he n re"ommondation io the inspectors that they be more stringent in the future. At the council moeth’'.' '-.oh’, i.rinndiatel.v following the allocation of prize-money for A. and P. sltows. was considered, and it was resob’eil to donate 4:250 fnrsanio 'l’ho district branches to sulin"’f thourecommendations for the t- and Pshows in •ill’’.’ wn districts. Mr. ’.Vhilham. AVaiukn. was appointed as addit:onal inspector for the Franklin district, and Mr. J. Bateman, of Southland, that district, Mr. D. Buick, Palmerston North, was re-elected as treasurer. The congratulations of the council were extended to Mr. J. Rnnstead as owner of flio champion cow under semi-official test, and were also tended to Air. rL

N. Bell for the record put up by his cow, 7221 b. of butter-fat for the year.

ROMNEY MARSH BREEDERS

The annual meeting of tbo Romney Marsh Breeders’ Association was hold in the Breeders’ Club on Thursday. Mr. A. Matthews (president) occupied the chair.

The president in moving the adoption of the report and balance-sheet regretted that tho proposal to increase the membership of tho council had not gone any further owing to the fact that the South Island members fouud difficulty in attending its meetings. An examination of the names of members of that body would show that there was a very fair representation for each district. The total number of flocks on tho Flock Book was 594, and in Kent (England) 109. The average number of ewes was 260 in a flock in England, as against 150 in New Zealand. Although New Zealand held four times as many ewes in the aggregate as they did in England, still here we held eleven times as many rams. He was satisfied that while they kept such a large proportion of ram lambs they would not improve their flocks. It behoved them all to improve their flocks nnd to extend pedigrees as far as possible. He pointed out that the reserve champion of England had been sold for 800 guineas, and dispatched to South America, and many other stud animals had been exported from England to North and South America, South Africa, Australia, Japan, and Genoa. It was satisfactory to find that tho funds cf the association were in such a flourishing condition. What they required to do was to breed animals of such a standard that they could bo sold in any of the world’s markets. In regard to wool, their sheep completely eclipsed the English sheep. Their best sheep were of such a quality that they could be sure of satisfactory buyers. In regard to bone, symmetry, and evenness of fleece, the New Zealand Romney Marsh was much superior to tho English flocks. The report and balance-sheet were adopted. The election of officers resulted as follows “President, Mr. A. Matthjws (reelected;; hon. treasurer, Mr. W. F. Jacob (re-elected); Messrs. Maguire and Corpe were re-elected auditors; members of the council, Messrs. G. E. Allen, J. Knight, J Miller P. Mnngavin, and R. Tanner. 'it was’decided to allot the North Island championship shield for competition at the Manawatn A. and P. Association and the South Island championship shield at the Canterbury A. and P. Association, and the Wheeler memorial shield at the Manawatu A. and P. Association. Sir James Wilson urged the donating of more medals at shows. Mr. G. L. Marshall moved that it be a recommenflation to Hie council to consider the question. This was carried.

BURNSIDE STOCK SALE

FAT CATTLE ADVANCE TN PRICE

By Telegraph—Pres® Association. Dunedin, June 22

The Burnside sales to-day were well supplied with fat stock in all departments with rhe exception of fat cuttle. These were in short supply, and a sharp advance in prices resulted. Sheep, lambs, nnd pigs also realised fair values, and there was an improvement m .he store cattle market, both in regard to numbers and quality. Fat cattle: A small yarding of medium quality, the number penned being 153. At the opening: of the sale competition was very keen and values realised were 20s. to 30s. per head above last week’s rates. There was a large proportion of cows and heifers in today’s vardings. Prime ox beef realised up to 435., but tho major portion of the ox beef sold would be worth in the vicinity of 41s. Cow beef brought from 225. to 30s. Prime bullocks realised 4119 to X 24 10s.; medium, .£l5 to, £18; light and unfinished sorts, from £9 upwards. Prime heifers realised from £lB to £l6; medium, £lO to £l2 10s.; light and aged, from £7 upwards. Store cattle: A better supply was sent forward for to-day’s sale. The yarding met with improved competition and tlie prices realised were a few shillings pei head advance on late rates for all good sorts offered. The yarding included a few pens of bullocks in forward condiSheep: A large yarding, numbering 8963 head, which showed an improvement in quality. Considering the largo number sent forward good prices weio realised There were some good lines of small halfbred wethers, which were keenly competed for. Prices as a whole wore on a par with last week wot her mutton being worth about Id and ewe 3d. to 3W- pr . wethers realised up to 31s. 3d.; pume wethers, 245. to 265. 6d.; medium wethers, 19s. to 225. 6d.; lighter weights, 14s. to 17s. 6d.< prime ewes, 18s. to 6d.: medium, Us. to 165.; light and inferior. 10s. to 13s. Lambs: A large yarding, numbeiing 2470 head of fair quality. There was very keen competition. Freezing buyers’were operating freely, and a clearance was effected al very prices. Values ranged from 15e. to 28s. per head, squal to Id. per lb., and occasiouaUv a shade wore. . Pigs: A medium yarding of mixed sorts. All classes met with good competition, and a clearance was effected at prices on a par with late < ■ ■ Best porkers and baconers realised from Bd. to 9d. per lb.

CANTERBURY MARKETS By Telegraph-Press Association. Christchurch, June 24. Merchants, generally speaking, seem satisfied with the businass doing in the past week. Business in oafs, which was fairly brisk a little while back, is now easier. Most of what was swST: Homo was from what the stock merchants had on band. It is considered that the prices that lately have been ruling at Home aro not. 100 certain to continue, in consequence of which merchants are inclined to proceed cautiously. Aery liHlo trade was being done in chaff until recently. Some good parcels of grass seed have been disposer! of. Al present, however, the prices asked for appear to be a bit high for the demand, and because or this buyers are taking up *n indifferent attitude. Linseed, winch was fetching high prices a little time ago. has gone oft again, home was sold at A.fi t.o.b. .) i nev, as this was tiio only outlet foi big lots of linseed. The trade m ibis line wen< off when orders from Australia ceased to come in. The present ra eis from a'l3 to .Cl 5. A lot of potatoes have been sent to the North Island recently, as a result of which there lias been quite a stir among local merchants. banners, however, are not offering nnmli, preterrin,g to hang on for a month or two.

WHOLESALE PRODUCE PRICES

Alessr. s . Laery and Co., Ltd., M'ellingten, renort approximate prices as f01...(\ ...(\- >bo j barley, ss. (id. bushel, sacks in, ClievalrcT. ss. 6(1. bushel, sacks in - feed barley, ss. per bushel, sacks m; partridire peas, 7s. 6d. per bushel sacks in: pels. Piligian bine, Is. (>d- P CI bushel, sacks in; peas; iced, t>“. J<l. bushel, sacks in: crushe: p'-ns, ’> • bushel, salts in: oat*. Hgerian seed, 4s. c,<|. per bushel, sacks in: oats, heavy Duns, choice, 4s. B<!.. sacks in; sjMinvw bills, for poultry feed. Is. Gd ; oats, we.’loats for poultry feed. ss. 3d. bustiel, -acks in; “hell oats, for chickens. Ils. tin. bnslr-1, sacks in; oats. Gartons’ A grace, Is. (id. bushel, sacks in; crushed oats, is tOd. bushel; Farro food, ton lots. 4110 7s. Gd. ton; chaff, oaten sheaf. Blenheim prime, ton lets, .4'B ton. sacks in, free on truck Wellington: hay, extra ehoi.-e lucerne, .£8 7s. 6d. ton-, meadow hay, -C7 10’. ton; clover hay, 48 103. per ton; fowls, hens, 7s. to 95.; heavy roosters, Bs. to 10s. per pair; ducks, Ils. to 14s. pair; geese, 13s. to 15s. per pair; turkeys, Is. 7d: to Is. Bd. per lb.; but-

ter, farmers’ separator. dairy, and milled. Is. )od. to Is. lid. per lb.; eggs, fresh, 2s. 7d. to 2s Bd.; preserved, 2s. 2d. dozen; shell grit, choice quality, 1001 b. bags, 6s. Gd. per bag; onions, Victorian choice brown Spanish, £9 per ion; maize, whole, 7s. Gd. per bushel, eacks in: crushed, Bs. bushel, sacks in; fowl wheat, ten sack lots, whole, Bs. Jld. bushel; lesser quotations, 9s. Id. per bushel, sacks Is. Bd.; meat meal, for poultry feed, 20s. per 1601 b. bag: calf meal, £l2 per ton: oatmeal, for poultry feed, 15s. Gd. per 1001 b. bag; peameal, ion lots. £l2 7s. Gd. per ton, sacks in; mutton birds, Tasmanian, in casks, 84. each; N.Z., in kits, cooked, le.; salted, Il£d. each; barley meal, ton lots, £ll 10s. ion, sacks in ; mangolds, quotation upon application; mixed fowl feed, 7». 6d. per bushel, sacks in; linseed oil meal and linseed oil nuts, ton lots, £l4; lesser quantities, 14s. 6d. per 1001 b.; eeed potatoes, quotations upon application

THE DAIRY SHOW

ANNUAL SMOKE CONCERT. The annual smoke concert in connection with the national dairy show was held on Thursday evening. Mr. E. Y. Lethbridge (president of the association) occupied tho chair, having on his right the Minister of Agriculture and on ,his left Mr. D. Wilbur (Consul-General for the United States). Sir John Luke and a number of visito-s from all parts of the North and South Islands were present. Mr. T. I'. Conway proposed "The Department of Agriculture,” paying a tribute to what it had done for farmers, and referred to the fact that the Minister had put in three days at the show, nnd thoroughly inspected all the exhibits.

In responding, the Hon. IV. Nosworthy expressed his pleasure at being present at such an influential gathering of farmers and primary producers, who were the backbone of the country. The show was a credit to the association and the district. More production should bo the watchword of the country, and then it must, prosper. He regretted that there was not sufficent money to assist in carrying out increased production to the extent they wished, but the Government would do its best, and he felt every confidence in the future. Mr. M'Plieraon, of the Department of Agriculture, in seconding the Minister’s reply, stated that one of the most important factors at the present show and one that would make its mark in the future was the poultry section. The toast of “The National Dairy Association” was proposed by Mr. J. M. Johnston, who said that it had begun in a small way, but had now assumed large proportions. Mr. S. R. Lancaster, in proposing the toast of "The Judges," said that the exhibits, more especially the roots, were better than ever before.

Mr. G. R. Tate responded for the judges, and congratulated the association on the exhibits, the quality which showed the advance tho district had made.

Several other toasts were honoured

LONDON MARKETS The Bank of-New Zealand has received the following advice from its London office, under date June 22: —"Tallow— Market unchanged. Quotations are as follow: Good mutton, £1 14s. to £1 15s. per cwt.; good beef, £1 15s. to £T 17s. per cwt.; good mixed, £1 14s. fid. per cwt.; inferior, £1 ss. to £1 9s. per cwt." The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company, Limited, have received the following cablegram from their London house under date June 22: — Tallow. —Market slow. Butter. —No change in market for New Zealand.

Cheese. —Fairly good demand at £1 19s. per cwt.

Frozen Mutton.—sjd. to Bid. per lb

Frozen Lamb.—ls. IJd. per lb. Frozen Beef.—Hindquarters, 5Jd. per lb.; forequarters, 3Jd. per lb. Market quiet.

Messrs. Dalgety and Co., Ltd., report' having received the following cablegram from (Tteir Loudon office, under date June 23: —

“Frozen meat market irregular, and demand very slow.

"Mutton and lamb market weak, anil prices probably only maintained in consequence of slow discharge from steamers.

“Wo quote: New Zealand lamb unchanged to id. lower. "Mutton.—Any change in prices is in favour of buyers. "Beef.—Prices are unchanged.”

LIVE STOCK SALES The Wairarapa Farmers’ Co-op. Associa tion, Ltd., Pahiatua, report on umir weekly sale, held at the Mangahao yards on Tuesday, ns follows;—We had a good yarding of sheep, principally lambs, alid a. fair entry of cattle. Competition was spirited on most lines of ■ sheep, and we Were successful in disposing of practically the whole of the entry under the hammer. We yarded 638 sheep and 87 head of cattle. There was a good demand for fat sheep and for store lambs. AVe quote the. following prices:—3o fat wethers, 14s. Id. to 16s. 9d.; 13 2-tooth wethers, 14s. Id.; 25 fat ewes. 14s. Id.; 36 do., Bs. 9d. to 10s. 4d.; 67 s.'m. empty ewes, 4a. lid. to ss. 7d.; 44 m.s. ewes in lamb.’ 15s. 2d.; 39 fat lambs. Ils. Bd.; 7 wether lambs, 9s. 3d.; 178 m.s. lambs. Bs. lOd.: 31 do.. Bs. 2d.; 124 do.. 6s. ltd.; 109 do., 3s. lOd. to ss. Id.; 3 bullocks, £5 55.; 3 steel’s. £2 Ils.; fat heifer. £6 7s. 6d.; fat cow, £3; dairy cow, £lO 10s.; 1 do., £9; do.. £8; do., £6 2s. 6d.: do., £5 10s.; do., £4 ss. The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Co., Lfd., report that at Leyin on Tuesday they offered a small yarding to the average attendance of buyers. Competition was fairly keen, anil prices realised were generally higher than has been the case for some time past. As of late store cattle were almost neglected, though good fats received some attention, but sheep were keenly contested. They- quote: —Good m.s. lambs, 10s. lid.; fair m.s. lambs, 75.; dairy heifers. £7 4s. to £9 65.; good porkers, £2. The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Co., Ltd., renort for the. week ended .Tune 18 as follows: -At Apiti on Tuesday wo had a good yarding. Competition wa° good, and oil lots sold readily at recent rates. Forward two-tooth ewes and wethers 13s. lid.; two-tooth wethers. 12s. 2d.. 13s. 5(1.; fan. ewes r.w. Southdown rams, 13s. Id.; forward b.f. lambs. 13s. 7d.- good weaner steers. 215.: yearling heifers. £2- dairy cows. £7 155., £lO At th R Feilding sale on Friday n large yarding of sheep and a fair entv” of cattle were penned. Prices all round for sheep wore below, recent sales, with th« <■ <cent ion of pood owes in lamb, whi'-li showed a sha-p rise. Cattle .sold more freely nt recent rates. Quotations:—Good fnt wethers, 19s. 4ib: liglif fat wethers. 13=. 6(1., 13s. 9d.: good fat ewes. 15s. 19d.: fair fat, ewes. Ils. Ad., 1?s 9(1.; b.f. fat lambs, 13s. 3d.. 15s. 6d.: forward two-tooth wethers 14s 4d.: cull wethers. 9s. 3d.: woollv 'smb«. 9s. 9d.; good ah >rn lambs. 135.; fair i mixed lambs 6 S . 3d. to 7s. 3d. Bs.: cu! l | iambs. 3s. 7d. to 55.; light faf cows, £4 to £4 55.: emntv cows. 3Cp. to £3 12«. 6(1.: good springing heifers. £ll 105.£14. £l6 10s.: two-yonr springing heifers. £10; dairy | rows. £7 I yire.rs Dolccty and Co.. Limited. Palmerston North, report, having had a verv i good entry of sheep and a fair yarding > of cattle at their Frilling s.’.'.le on Fridov , Prices generollv for sheep were hardly I equal to previous week’s rqt»s with the evcention of a. few pens of good owes in lamb to b.f. ranis. ’ motetions -Sheen’•’at and forwn’-q owes. 12s. 8(1.: lorht r at owes 13s All.; light fat wethers. 15s. 9d.; mixed lnmb» 9s. to Its. Ad.: wetlmr land’s. • four ami five-venr ewes in lamb. 15c. 'I to 19s. 6d.: • wo tooth wethers, ris. Wd. r M| n; Twovcnr cmnty beifers £2 10“ e° 18s ■ backward dairy rows. £5 to £7: caws close to profit. £2'l; good dairy heifers. £9 10s. to £10: riorc cows. 305.: ■ .-rrvenr steers, £2 7s. 6d. The Fprmer’s Auctioncerl-'"’ Co. Ltd. ri.n'orts-- At Hamilton, on Thursday, we |..,q an nre-'m v"rdl"g of al’ (la’"'."’ of stock, nod with sliirlit cxenntion clcnrinl ‘be whole oi’trv. Competition for beef | v.-a« not onife so brisk as the previous peek although value", were much on the same basis. A line of voung cows, on nrcA’int of Messrs. T. Wilson and Sons. Walmai. ranged from £7 14". to £8 15s. averaging for the line r 8 2s. 6d.: other cows, from £5 ss. to £7 15s. Only a few steers were penned, and these did not reach reserves. Competition for store cattle showed considerably more spirit, and price* advanced all round. Good two and a half-year steers Pollerl-Angus made

to £6 Ils.; rough sorts, £4 15?.; two-year steers, £4 7.: twenty-mouth, £3 to £3 7b.; smaller, £2 os. to £2 12s. 6d._ The calves yarded were in low condition, but advanced In value, making up to 2jts.; amaller. os. to 165.: heifers at profit made from £lO to £l2; dairy cows (backward), £3 to £4 15s. The demand for sheep waanoteouaJ to the previous week, although most of the entry was afterwards cleared. Fat wethers nifide to £1 4s. 6d.; fat ewes, to 19e>. 6d.; store, wethers, two-tooth, 12s. 3d.: store lambs, 9s. 3d. The nig market, which was noticeablj' short of heavy baeouere, was a little easier, tlie best making t.o £5 25.; porkers, 355. to £3; slips. 17s. 6(1. to 275.; weanera. is. to 12s. 6d. Messrs. Abraham and Williams, bld., report that at Feilding on June 17 a very heavy yarding of sheep met with a good sale at late rates. Ewes in lamb to Routhdowns were keenly competed for; one line made as high as 21s. 2d. A good yarding of cattle sold at late rates. 33 e quote:—Fat ewes. 9s. /d., 12e. /d.. 13b. 2d.» fat wethers. 19s. to 225. 9d.: fat. lambs. Ils 7d., 13s. 6d.. to 14s. 6d.: ewes in lamb to Southdown rams, to 21a. 2d-: ewes running with Romney rams, to 18s. 6d.: twotooth ewes. 8s• 7d ._ 9s 3d to 10a.: empty ewes, ss. 3d.. 6b.. 7a. 9d.. 9s. 6d.. to 10s., lambs Bs. 6d.. 9s. 3d.. 9s. 6d. to Ida.; cull lambs, to 4a. 6d.: two-tooth wethers. 12s 7d. to 15s. 7d.: dairy cows. £7 10s. to £9- fat bullocks, three pens, to £7 2s. ba., fat cows. £5 10s.: line 56 two-year P.A. steers £3 15a.: sm” 11 twenty-mouth P.A. steers 325.. £2. to £2 45.; yearling Hereford heifers. £1 ss. to £t 10a.: P.A. weaner hffifera. 255. to 30a.; P.A. weaner steers 255. to 325.: store rows, 155.. £l. £1 £ Messrs. Dalgety and their Taihivpe Bale on June 15. A Eooa yarding of sheep came forward and a small entry of cattle. Sheep in all classes sold well, the market showing a very much more confident tone. We 9Uoto. Small lambs, 3s. 5d.; medium lambs, 9s. 9d to 10s.; Erood lambs, woolly, 15s. Id., medium wethers 2-tooths, Rs.; 4 and 6tooth staggie, lss. Id.; fat and forward ewes Bs/IM. to Ils. Hd.; ‘ and 6-year low-condition owes, r.w. Ttomnej lams, 9s Cattle were slow of sale, P rlc ®B showing no improvement. Empty 20-month heifers 38s. to £2: store cows. £2, cows and calves, £2 12s. 6d ; forward cows, £4- BorinElng dairy heifers, ±.9. The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Aeency Company, Limited, Palmerston North report: —At» our monthly Kongotela sale on 3Vednesday, we had small ■vardings of sheen and cattle. Competition throughout the sale was fair, and we quitted tho whole of our yarding at late values:—3Ve quote: Fat and tor' vi ?J d ewes. Ils. 6d.; springing heifers £9 IDs. to £10: fat 3-year steers. £7 17s. 6d., fat rows, to £5 Us.; store cows. 20s. to oos. Messrs. Abraham and Williams, Ltd., renort that on June 15 they held a clearin- sale of dairy cows on account of Mr. E.°A. Houghton, of Bunnythorpe. There was a good attendance of buyers. Ihe cows were a choice lot of grade Jerseys in good condition and calving July. August. September, and October. Fho bidding was brisk for all the well-bred and early calvers. the whole herd are raging £22. Prices: Best cows. £2O, £23. £2.>. £27, £3O £33, to £37 10s.; late calvers, £l4 IDs., £ls.' £l7. £lB. to £l9: grade Jersey yearling bull, £l4. Tho New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Co.. Ltd.. Palmerston North, report:—On Thursday wo held a clearing sale on account of Messrs. Walker Bros., of Himatnngi. a large attendance of buyers being present. Fairly good competition resulted throughout the sale, and the cows, which were aged and low conditioned. wore ouitted nt good values. 4 e quote:—Best cows. £l2 to £l7 55.: fair rows. £8 to £ll 10s.: late and low conditioned. £4 to £7: pedigree Jersey bull, Messrs. Levin and Co. report:—During the week we held vard sales at Bongotea. and Foiiding. and a clearing sale of horses end implements on account of Mr. \V. Campbell, nt Foiiding. At Rongotea on Wednesday we offered a small yarding of sheep f’d cattle, which sold well at late rates. There was o good demand for and thi** class sold freelv at advanced prices.' At Fcilding on Friday lhere was a good yarding cf sheep and a fair entry of cattle. Tho duality of fnts yarded was not quite up to the mark, and nnces show a fa I .’ on last weeks rates 33 ethers sold well, store ewee. and lambs were slightly easier than at late sales. Our cattle, which consisted mostly of fat cows, met with goed comneOtlon. and sold at late rotes. At Mr. Campbell a sale at. Ranfurlv Hoad on Thursday there was a good attendance of the public, and a. fair enle resulted though noma of the best horses were passed in. the purchasers not being able to meet the reserves. Implements and sundries sold nt satisfactory nriec's. We quote;-A’ Boirnnten: Dairy rows (guaranteed!. £B. £lO. £lO 5".. to £ll- - nows (not guaranteed). £2 15’-- “A ir-R. ‘£s IDs. £5 155.; empty' "tore cows. 15s ' ’29*. 30.: empty forward cowk £2 15s''- fn< heifers. £5. £5 10*. £6: vnun" fat rows. £4. £5 55.. £6 2s. 6(1. At Feildn’,-: Fat “born b.f. lambs. 135.. :3s. lid.: ivoolly Jal h'f lambs. 20s. 6i; light fat ewes. 10s.. 10s. 4d.. He. 4d.. to 12s id. and 12s. tri.; Prime fat ewes. 135.. 15s. 6d. to 16s. 2d.; forward empty ewes. 65.. Bs. 9d.: good fat ktootli wethers. 19s : mixed fat -- tooths. 14s. 9d.: f. and f, lajnbk 12«lt«. 3d.: store lambs. 2s. 3d. to Bs.. empty store ewes. 3e..- fat Hereford 17s «d . £6. £6 25.. £6 5».: others. £4 1 0s.. £5 Bs.. £5 Ils.; £5 15e.: 18-inonth PA. ,tror ? r,e "2 155.: emnty rows 325. «a„ 2»>s. ' Messrs. Dalcety and Co.. Ltd., report having offered a- good yarding of sheep at the Devin sale on 'l’uesday. There was an improved demand, and good prices were realised. A few prime maiden ewes made 2!». 9d.; fat wethers, to 225. 6d., ia« ™ves 13s. to 17s. 6d.; fat and forward ewes to Us. 6d.; forward lambs, Hs. 3d. The N.Z. Loan and Mercantile Agency Co Ltd. Palmerston North, report :-On Tuesday 'we held a. clearing sale on account of Mr. E. Oaske of Batnesse. Thero was a fair attendance of buyers, but owing to the majority of tho cows be ng late calvers. bidding was <lull ‘ were sold at a low average. Best. cows. £l5 10s. to £23; medium rows £7 to s? “ W ““ AS »„.%■ ward and met with a much keener demand a total clearance being effected. A ma ,u' »„trv of cattle sold at lato rates. We quote-Aged lambs. 13s. 7d. 145.; gooa lambs Ils. to 135.; fair do.. 9s. 4d„ 9s. lid., mil ss. ss. 5d.: 2-tooth wethers. 16s. 6d., 16s 10(1'■ fair do., 15s. 4d., 15s. 10d.; medium’ 12s. Id. to 'l4s. 9d : 2-tooth empty month H.H. steers. £3 CO " B ' to £9 2s. 6d.; poor do. .£4 10s., xo.

COMMERCIAL ITEMS

INVESTMENT SHARES

CIiGTOMS REVENUE. Customs revenue collected nt the port of Wellington yesterday totalled £5Bl/ 14s. 10d. RANK RATE REDUCED. Aust»alian-New Zealand Cable Association. London, June 23. The Bank of England rate has been reduced to 6 per cent.- -Ans.-N.Z. Caine Assn. [The Bank of England discount, rate whi'-h had stood at 5 per cent, sines April 5 1917 on which date it was reduced from 5* per cent., was raised to 6 per cent, on November 6. 1919. to 7 per cent, on April 15 1920 and reduced to 6J per eent. on April 28. 1921.1

PRICES OF METALS. (Rec. June 21. 1G.5 p.m.) London, June 23. Conper.-rOn “pot. £69 13s. 9d. per ton; forward delivery. £69 18s. 9d. Lead-Ain spot, £22 ss. per ton; forward delivery, £22 2s. 6d. Spelter.--On spot. £26 IDs. per ton; forward delivery. £27 2s. 6d. Tin.-On spot. £165 12s. 6d. per ton; forward delivery. £167 17s. 6d. Silver—ln bars, 35'd. per ounce standard. MINING NEWS WELLINGTON SHARE MARKET. The following quotations were recorded in the mining market yesterday:— Buyers. Sellers. .£ s. d. £ s. (1 Junction 0 10 6 0 H 3 STOCK EXCHANGE. By Telegraph—Press Association. Dunedin, June 24. Sale:—Bank of N”w Zealand. 455. (three). Christchurch, June 23. Sales renoito'l .ovirnuient 51, inscribed, 1935, £9l ss. Auckland, June 24. Sale:—Waihi, 31s. 6d. Sale reported: Bank of New Zealand, 455. 3d.; Auckland Gas (eon.), 18s. 6d.

A sale of Union Bank shares at £13 was made on ’Change yesterday. The quotations were as undo. .£ r. d. Sellers. £ s. d. Inscribed Stock (1939._T9387 82 15 0 91 10 0 inscribed Stock (1533) m ir War Bonds (1939) War Bonds (1918) 62 10 5 p.c. P.O. Bonds (1927)... — 0 83 10 0 92 10 0 Bank Australasia 7V 0 Bank New South Wales .QI 7 0 0 6 82 0 0 5 17 0 31 15 0 Bank New Zealand V. 5 0 0 2 5 3 Abraham and Wi liams 4 J) 0 0 18 0 National Insurance - 19 0 2 15 0 Standard Insurance * 3 6 Huddart-Parker (ord.) ... - 6 0 Kaiapoi Woollen 15 0 9 Levlaiid-O'Brien Timber 1 7 0 — Wairarapa Farmers 0 18 0