LOCAL & GENERAL NEWS.

Marlborough Express, Volume XLVI, Issue 14, 17 January 1912, Page 4

LOCAL & GENERAL NEWS.

The Taranaki regatta will be held on the Waitara River on Easter Monday.

At Hall's sale to-morrow—Wide siik ribbons, 4d per yard. *

A man named James Martin was fined 5s by Mr W. H. Maoey, J.P., at the Magistrate's Court this morning, for being drunk in Market Square last evening.

At Hall's To-morrow—White drill bate, 6d! each. ■ *

The condition of Mrs H. Bush, of Hawkshaw Sti-eet, who was seized by a paralytic stroke a. few days ago, still causes much anxiety, but;, we-are' pleased to Hear, is improving.

At Hall's Sale To-morrow—Light prints and linens, 3|d yard. *

A conference is being held in Blenheim this afternoon between representatives of the Wairau and Picton Hospital and Charitable Aid Boards, respecting the proposal to establish a joint Old Men's Home.

Linen table damask, 10jd yard, .v.t Hall's to-morrow. , *

It is understood (says the Nelson Mail) that the New Zealand Clothing Factory have purchased Tyree's buildings, Trafalgar Street, and that it is their intention: to erect new premises on the site. , ,

Pure wool delaine blouses, Is lid, at Hell's to-morrow. *

A considerable number of members of the local Masonic Lodges journeyed 'to Picton by special train this morning. They -were met by the members of the Picton Lodge, and embarked on the Waitohi for an excursion to the Sounds.

At Hall's sale to-morrow—Pu"e silk shirt blouses 4s 6d. These goods ore absolutely new, and have never been shown before. *

The many friends" of Mr D. Marshall, late of Howick Road and Weld's Hill, will regret to hear to fcis death, which occurred at Springston, Canterbury, this morning. Much sympathy will be felt for the three boys who have^ thus lost both father and mother within six months.

Mien's lounge felts, 2s lid, at Hall's to-morrow. \ *

In reference to the paragraph in last night's issue regarding a curious coin found upon the beach at the mouth of the Waipaoa River (Poverty Bay), we have been shown a similar coin or token, of'brass, .from-.the collection of Mr W. Thomas, of Grove Road.

At Hall's Sa.lc—Dress linens, 3id yard. *

The necessary security of £200 in connection with the petition which seeks to upset the result of the Wairau Parliamentary election was deposited yesterday. The petition is a lengthy one, and it is. understood that it contains over twenty specific allegations of corrupt or illegal practices.

At Hall's Ssie—White muslin, 3Jd and 4£d yard; usual price Is. *

A Wellington message announces the arrival of the Daily Mail Empire Challenge Cup, won by the Wellington Suburbs Rifle Club last year. The cup is valued at 200 guineas, and is held for a year. Another cup accompanies it, valued at £50, which was won outright.

To-morrow at Hall's—Black muslin usual price Is and Is 3d; Hall's sals price 4£d and 6cl. . *

A fine sample of Tuscan wheat, grown by Mr J. B. Dick, of Marama, was left at this office by Mr A. McCusker. The wheat. is very heavy in the heads, and many heads contain four grains to the spikelet; Mr Dick has 30 or 40 acres of this wheat, and the sample provides a complete refutation of the argument that wheat will not do well in the Awatere'.

To-morrow at Hall's—Tinsel belting, 9d yard. *

The Commissioner of Crown Lands submitted to the Land Board yesterday plans of Crown lands in the Marlborough Sounds district proposed to be reserved for climatic purposes. It was decided to defer the question till next meeting. The suggested reservations cover some thousands of acres of mountain tops over a wide area, which are regarded as unsuitable for settlement, and the bush on which it is thought necessary to preserve intact in the interests of water-con-servation.

Til calling1 your attention to our advertisement in to-night's paper we wish to point out although the prices are lowl the quality of the goods is <>f the very best. In order to share in these plums we respectfully request our clients to visit our premises at their very earliest.—H. F. Hall. *

At the big Cliristchurch wool eates the auctioneers reported that "a number of choice lots received full attention and competition from the Dominion mills. In mosi oases the choicest half-breds went to the local woollen mills." That's the qualitywool KAIAPOI goods are made of. Support the country that supports you by purchasing KAIAPOI goods. *

At the Magistrate's Court, Wellington, Granville Hunt, formerly in business in Wellington,' was committed for trial on two charges of forgery at Wellington, in respect to two promissory notes purporting to be pigned by W. H. N;ish and uttered to Wright, Stephenson and Co.

At our "final flutter" sale! Ladies' Dorothy pinafores at,9d each.-—Auck-land Clothing and Drapery Company. . *

The potato crops in the North Canterbury districts are reported to be rottmg in the ground, and though large areas have been sown with potatoes, it is not expected that farmers will realise more than sufficient to pay for the seed. The crops, in addition to suffering from the wet weather, are affected with blight.

Big bargains «t our "final flutter" sale! Ladies' tweed costumes at 20s.—Auckland Clothing; and Drapery Company. *

At Waitara a meeting was held last evening which decided to take steps to raise subscriptions for the purpose of erecting a monument in the soldiers' cemetery, on which it is purposed will be inscribed the names of members of the regular forces and Volunteers killed in . engagements around the "Waitara district in the war of 1860-1, and to also properly attend to the care of the graves in future.

Start to save now! At our "final flatter" sale—Ladies' embroidered nainsook nightdresses at 3s lid. — Auckland Clothing nnd Drapery Company.

An Auckland message advises that Mr Hensey, the oil expert, says that Fanning island, has been sold by Father Rugier to a well-known British Navy ship-building firm, with the approval of the Government. The lagoon is to be converted into a deep water harbor, with a good anchorage, and' will be used as a- naval coaling station. Father Rugier is nowbound for England to complete the negotiations.

3r. lid buys a ladies' smart dressing gown at our "final flutter 3' sule. — Auckland Clothing and Drapery Company. '...*.

Blenheim (75) was the warmest town in the Dominion this morning. Napier (74), Cape Palliser (73), Ohristchureh (72), and Gisborne (72) were also experiencing unusual warmth.- The barometer was low, and rain had fallen in many districts, Greymouth, Bealy, Westport, Queenstown, and Wellington being affected. Consequently, the Buller, Grey, and Best-ley Rivers were in flood, the latter being especially high.

Two dandy prices! 2s and 2s lid yard' is the price for the balance of our linoleums. —Auckland Clothing and Drapery Company. ' *

A curious; accident happened to a hearse near Twa Flat, on Sunday afternoon (reports the Post). The hearse was empty, going out to a funeral. Some bees swarming in the hedge suddenly attacked the horses, which took fright. Plundging madly, one horse got its legs over the traces, and the vehicle Was overturned. The bees then ceased operations, the hearse was right-ed, the hoi'&es calmed down, and the incident ended with far less damage than at first appeared possible.

At MoFarlane's drapery sale, some special ban-gains in curtains, sheeting, towels, tabling. Nuffsed. Come. *

Mr H. Northeroft, Chief v Postmaster :it Blenheim, has received notice of transfer to Greymouth, where he will take up his duties at the beginning of April. The change means promotion, and though his friends will congratulate him in that conneckm, otherwise Mr Northcroft's removal will be generally regretted. An able officer, a constantly courteous gentleman, and a, most popular resident, Mr Northeroft enjoys the esteem of a large circle of friends, who will wish him and his wife and family happiness and success in their ; new sphere. Mr Northcroft will be especially missed in bowling circles. ,

Don't get shirty or shirtless. At McFarlane's sale shirts are .retailed ttf 2s 6d. ' *

The Maryborough Express ■^almanac arid dictionary will be issued to-morrow. Customers in 1 the town will have their copies , delivered by -the runners in the morning. Any customer not receiving one is requested to make appliqation to-the office. The almanac contains^ besides advertisements of leading business firms, the usual information regarding fixed and movable feasts, eclipses for the year, gardening notes, etc. There ar» also five illustrations, "all from photographs taken by Mr A. McCusker, the subjects being ' Carting tlw Golden Fleece," "A Marlborough Trout Fishing Stream," "A Harvest Seen© near Blenheim," '■Ticton on New Year's Day," and "Ready for the Dip." Extra copes' may be obtained at the office at a nominal cost.

Kirkcaldie's summer sale will starfc in a few days, and the firm's/agent is now prepared to accept orders foxsale goods. Samples of dress goods, household linens, sheets, pillow cases, linoleum, etc., etc., can be seen at the firm's agency in Queen Street, Blenheim.

Mr W. F. Massey, Leader of the lloforni Party, showed on Saturday, to the surprise of many of his admirers, that lie is still a man who has to be reckoned with seriously in a 100 yards race.. After the conclusion of speeches at the gathering of Mr Dradney's election committee at Pine Island on Saturday afternoon, a. number of the athletically inclined arranged a 100 yards handicap for a trophy valued at two guineas, and invited Mr Massey, who was present, to compete. The latter consented, and among the fifteen competitors— 'nost oi' them much younger men—he was givou 1£ yards start. Contrary to gem-nil expectations, ' and amid marked enthusiasm, Mr Massey showed himself possessed of such a swift pair of ieet that he. led for the whole distance, and won the race by a. yard to the good. Although- it is not generally known, Mr Massey was the fastest runner in his district in his •younger days.

Any make of car, be it English or American, can be supplied by Birch's for £50 to £150 less than any firm in New1 Zealand will supply at for the same car, no matter what make is required. Regal, best American oar, £285 to > £450. First-class car for hire at Birch's Garage. *

Did you notice the report about th« bii? Christchurch wool sale held the other day? It stated: "Last month there were only n few lots (of merino) on offer, and these were not .much sought after. _ Prices were dis appointing. Yesterday the local mills came to the rescue, and .-nv merino offered brought its full value." Thero's another ren«on why you should buy KATAPOT Clothing. Keep your monoy circulating here. *

A young man residing in NorthEast Valley had a marrow escape last week (reports the Otago Daily Times) when walking with some companions over the Valley hills, a stray bullet passing over his scalp, and making a furrow ip.bout three inches long and removing both hair and skin.

The story of the Stars—Ask for Mfu-tell's Three Star. *

Recently the Customs authorities at the- Bluff had a -scrap of brown paper, on which was the following legend, sent them for elucidation: — ''Engine broke down at Green Point. Send help. (Signed) T. Crockett." The document had been enclosed in a bottle, which had been picked up on the Chatham Islands on November 30th, and it had been forwarded to the head; office at Wellington from there. The whereabouts of Green Point is not exactly as well-known as, .say, London, but after considerable trouble the Wellington Custon.s people discovered that there was such v place at the Bluff. Naturally, Mr T. Crockett, who is a well-known Bluff citizen, was at once summoned to explain the why <and wherefore, but lie was a much in the mist as the authorities themselves. However, inquiries were.made, and it was. gleaned! th«t on August 25th of last year MsCrockett was having a boat tried, the engine of which temporarily refused d"uty. Two other well-known residents of the Bluff were handy at tho time, and thinking they would have a good joke at Mr Crockett's expense wrote the legend referred to, placed it in a bottle, a-nd committed it to the briny, thinking that it' would merely drift to the Bluff wharf or the foreshore, and that some of the Blu;i | people would pick it up. The inci--1 dent had almost escaped the memory of those who were responsible for it, when the Customs Department took a. hand in the game. It is interesting to note that the distance from t):o 'Bluff to Chatham Islands is 700 miles, a.xvl it took the bottle three montbs to get there. '

Let us figure on your plumbing work. Don't band out your contract to the first man you meet. Just tell us what you want done, and let us figure out for you the lowest cost *or the proper kind of work.—F. W. Adams, Market Streets Blenheim. 6

An accident, occurred at Manwrewa railway station crossing on Thursday morning, resulting: in a cart ; being smashed to pieces, the two occupants having marvellous escapes (reports the Auckland Herald). Mr Macartney, a fisherman, residing at "Weymouth, .and his little daughter, were driving in a spring cart across, the level crossing in the direction of Weymouth. Mr-Macartney is slightly deaf, and did not hear the approach of th« Rotorua express. The goods shed also hid the approaching train, and when the vehicle bad nearly crossed th« rails the reaa- of the cairt was struck by the express. The child had a most muryellous escape, being thrown high into the air, and falling on to the back of the horse, which broke her fall, <and saved her from injury. MiMacartney was thrown out to the ground, and sustained slight injuries to IJa head. The horse escaped uninjured, but the cart was smashed1 to pieces. The train was stopped, and Mr Macartney was conveyed to Pukekohe, where, after medical attention, he was able to return to his home m the afternoon.

"Ma^ywe never desire what we cannot obtain." This is a. popular toast— but we can always^ obtain Martell's Thrice Star, and how often we need it! . • * Every year the wool sales prove that the KAIAPOI WOOLLEN COMPANY is a powerful factor in helping to maintain wool prices-. Buy KAIAPOI Nothing. It pays. '■■■*■

A loud explosion, the cause of whi?h, is. unknown, occurred in Hamilton East on Tuesday night (says a. contemporary) .startling a. number of the residents, who went out of doors to spok the cause. Mr A. T. Atkin deolaaies that tHe.'report took place n. little after midnight, and to him, in bed, sounded as though a big gun had been fired immediately over his new house. Airising, he made an inspection Of the> building, both outside and in, but found everything in order. The explosion is- so far inexplicable, and seeing that a similar loud report occurred-, at midnight on New Year's Eve, which was Heard as far away os No. 1 bridge," it would be interesting to know the origin. 'One theory is that someone is experimenting with dynamite, but midnight seems » rather untimely hour for such, an undertaking, unless carried out with some illicit object. It is thought by others that the noise was caused by sewer gas combustion, but inquiry n.i tho gasworks next morning tended to destroy this theory, while as the machinery at the waterworks on the opposite bank of the: river was not working, the noise could not have come from this source.

Did you ever haye a headache that simply wouldn't stop? Tried everything with no result? But not Steams' Headache Cure. Try it next time. -*

! In March last a box of acorns of the cork oak was imported to Melbourne from Spain and presented' to the Victoria Forest Department by Messrs Alexander and Paterson, cf Melbourne. The acorns, were sown in the Macedon, Greswick, and Broadford State ■nurseries.1- Only a small percentage proved fertile. When tho seedlings are ready for transplanting they will be set out in selected portions of the State plantations. The-e ■are many fine specimens of this treo now growing in the grounds of the Macedon nursery, but perhaps the best samples in the State (says the Age) .are to be seen in the C&stlemain gardens. The cork oak is a slowgrowing tree. When it is about fifteen years old the first stripping of virgin cork may be made, Jbut this is of littlvalue. Afterwards strippings «.f mercantile cork may be made every eight or "ten years till the tree dies. Its life is estimated at 200 years, anda revenue of fbout £2 per acre per annum is obtainable from a plantation. In Europe it is found that tho poorest soils produce the finest bark.

Different countries have different customs. This does not .apply to Martell's Brandy, which, is drunk everywhere. #