THE COUNTRY.

Otago Witness, Issue 2915, 26 January 1910, Page 39

THE COUNTRY.

BjF Correspondents are reminded that all letters for the current week's issue must reach Dunedin NOT LATSR THAN MONDAY NIGHT. Setters coming to hand on Tuesday are too late, «nd are thus a week old when they appear. * : : ! j ! ■ : \ j . ' '

January 22.—Heavy rain, fell throughout the district on Monday last. There were about 12 hours' steady rain, and the country get a good soaking. Although somewhat late for grain crops, the rain would •do an immense amount of good, as it was the means of saving many of the turnip crops. There were slight showers on Wednesday and Thursday, but the- weather appears to be again settled, and at time 01 writing it is very warm. Queenstown Regatta.-—At a meeting of the committee of the Queenstown Regatta Club a programme for the regatta to be held on Easter Saturday was adopted. Ihe programme is on similar lines to that of last .year, the principal outrigger rowing events being:—Maiden Double Sculls, Youths' Four-oared Race, Senior Double Sculls, Junior Foar-oared Race, Maiden Pair-oared Race, Lake Wakatipu Senior Four-oared Championship, and Jurror and Senior Pa.ir-oared Races. It was decided to allow visiting ladies to take part in the ' rowing event for ladies. The- local. events are to be the same as last year, with the addition of walking the greasy pole. It was decided to write to the Otago Rowing Association's officials, Messrs F. W. Mitchell. W. J. Wilson, A. E. Gascoigne, and J. E. Galbraith, asking ithem if they will again accept the positions of judges, umpire, and starter. Wakatipu Mounted Rifles.—This corps went into camp on the Arrow Recreation Ground on Saturday last for their annual week's training. There was a good muster, and the men and officers have been kept busy during the week with useful instruction under Staff-sergeant-major Grant. On Sunday the camp was visited by Colonel Bowler, and on Thursday the squadron was inspected by Adjutant-captain Hickey. Church parades were held morning and evening on Sunday, and were well attended. The military sports were held this afternoon. The weather being fine, the attendance was large. Entries were large and competition keen for the various events. The following qre the results:—Twos Over Hurdles—Privates Toll and Hunter 1, Sergeant. Grant and Private V. Baker 2. Six pairs competed. 100 Yards Foot Race (handican)—Serjeant Shaw (6yds) 1, Private V. Baker (10yds) 2. Ten entries. Kanjyaroo Race—Private Home 1, Private A. Baker 2, Sergeant Shaw 3 Eight entries. # Reseue Race—Private h. G. Pittaway 1, Senreant Reid 2. Eijrht entries. Handicap Trot (one mile and a-half)— Private E Haskings 1, Corporai Rhaw 2. Eleven entries. Obstacle. Pace—Private V. Baker 1, Serjeant D. Ward 2. Twelve Tusr-o'-waT. Wakatipu Mounted Rifles v. Civilians—This was an exciting event. The W.M.R. has never yet been "beaten, and to-day they retained their unbeaten record by beating the Civilians in. the first two pulls. Two-mile Trot—Pri viatie E. Hoskings 1, Corporal Shaw 2. Eight entries. _ Wrestling by Troops on Horseback—This event resulted in a dead heat between Sergeant Healy's and Serjeant's Reid's troops. Gurn-bcot Race--Sergeant Ward and Private M'Askill 1 Privates Home and Griffiths 2. Throwing the Rope—Sergeant Shaw 1. Ten entries. Captain dimming gave two prizes for the best-kept tents during the camn. and they were won by Senreant Reid (1) and Sergeant Shaw (2). Tent-pitching - Sergeant- Shaw's squad 1. Three squads •competed. _ Tourists.—Larcte numbers of tourists continue to arrive in Queenstown. Last Satm--day between 130 and j 40 week-enders arrived, and this evening a similar number arrived. Mininq-.—There is nothinsr new to report regarding mining. At Macetown the old Tipnerary battery is still enffap-ed on the. trial crushing from the Homeward Bound mine. Messrs Anderson Bros, and Hannah are getting out stone in their mine at Macetown, and intend making a start crushing next week. HILL. January 14.—We have safely negotiated the hohdays._ and settled down to regular order of going for another vear. "The most noticeable, features of the weather -were three phenomenally hot days before Christmas. By degrees we heard of the alter effects of the heat wave. In many cases thg gooseberries, black currants, and apples that were in expcssedi positions on th© trees were scorched. Some of the. oatcrops were forced into ear too scon, so jthat they will be short and somewhat dim'cult to out* The earjv-sown turnin cror«s are coming on well. The turnip ridger is

. ' set at 6£oz of seed to the acre, so that t i scarcely any thinning is required. The r residents on, the Reef were in a disturbed ■ . state of mind lately, owing to the death , ; in convulsions of a couple of their dogs. • ■ The indications implied poison by strychi I nine. Aa sheep are always close by the j house it would seem that they are not . "wool-olaescrs," which would indicate an , absence of motive for their destruction. t j Picnic and Sports.—We had a very eni j joyablo picnic and sports and school ccn- . i cert during Christmas week. The sports ■> were held in Mr N. M'Arthur's paddock. Visitors from Dunedin and suburbs who i were spending their holidays here were • present. There were sports for all, includi ing the children, and toys and lollies j galore. There was an, abundance of re- ■ ' freshments brought b.y the ladies. Some 1 | of the visitors left early, but a few more ' arrived for the concert, which was an unqualified success. The Rev. Mr Reader, j from Milton, lately of Cromwell, occupied ' the chair, and in the course of his rc--1 marks hope dthe Table Hill mining reserve would make a fresh start, and the palmy days come back again.. The following contributed to the programme: —Miss Green, from Owaka, played the accompaniments on the organ. Songs were rendered by the Rev. Howes (Mllbirm), Rev. Reader 1 , ; Miss Green (to Mr Howes' aeeompani--1 ment), Mr G. W. Johnstone (Milton), Mr i Halford (Milton); a couple of readings , by the Bev. Howes and Mr C. Forsyth; ! an action sonig by eight school children, re- ! presenting the days of the week; and reci- ! tations and violin solos by Mr G. W. John- , stone. There were also a couple of amus- J in? dialogues by Messrs E. Fester, C. Ross, | Misses M. M'Arthur, A. Momfries, and F. j Boss, with appropriate properties A sen- ! timent.al recitation by Miss Fanny Ross closed the programme. | Social Gatherings.—A social gathering, was lately held at Mr C. Forsyth's house . to meet "Miss Janet Dunsmuir, who was ; paying a visit to the district; while another | similar function was held at Mr Fred j Hay's. I Obituary.—l have received a letter from j a Wa.naka friend advising the death of one j of the good old timers. Mr John Algeo. '■ "Johnny," as he was familiarly called', was a native of the North of Ireland, and came .' to the Victorian diggings in the early ] days, and from there to the Cardrona dig- ' gings in the sixties, where at that time he "held a claim with the late Mr Dan. Calwell, sawmiller, of Lake Wanaka. He followed minincr there for some years afterwards. In partnership with Mr Geo. R. Pearce, he took up a 300-acre section adjoining Mount Barker, but he did not ■ find this profitable, and sold out to Mr ! Pearce. Almost his first work here was to . plant fruif and forest trees and lay out , a oarden adioining the house. After this : the late "Johnny" Algeo went to live at ; Tuohvs, and rented a piece of land to run ' his horses on. He died on December 7 '. need 86 "Johnny's" only relations that he knew of was a sister who lived in Chicago. EUVE&SESAI/S'. January 24.—Harvest is upon us once more, but the oat crops now ripe are not perhaws eo heavy as they might be. lne weather has been very hot and dry, and this is perhaps the cause of it. A very heavv and much-needed shower fell on Wednesday evening, though it came too late to benefit all the crops T he * uml P \ crops are, however, looking better Threshing grass seed now occupies the mills though so far the returns are only medium. ; Valedictory:—On Thursday evening 16th inst., a. number of friends of Mrs Wilson j Hall paid her a surprise visit at the rest- \ dence of Mrs Manson in order to bio her : farewell. Mr A. Murdoch acted as chief spokesman, but as he believed Mr Joseph ; Smail- to be the one amongst them who had known their guest longest, he called upon him to make the presentation on behalf of the subscribers. Mr Small, in his remarks, commented on the lengthy period Mrs Hall had dwelt in Riversdale, and. the ready response made by the subscribers j testified to the esteem and. popularity in I which she was held. He then presented j her with a purse of sovereigns, and wished , her aSu her family all prosperity in their j new home in Oamaru. Complimentary , speeches were then made by several of j those present, and the gathering broke up at; a fete hour by the singing of " Auld ling syne." Picnic—The annual Sunday school picnic in connection with the local Presby- ' terian Church was held in one of Mr A. Murdoch's paddocks, Waipounawea. As the day was fine there was a very good attendance. Sports of the> usual order were indulged in throughout. A thunderstorm, however, came on, causing a speedy exit of all and sundry. CIjIFUEN (SoiitlUaiid). January 13.—The holiday season is over ' and grass cutting is more the order of the day. Threshing will commence next week in a paddock of 200 acres. According to the local paper, early turnips are a failure, : but early turnips at Clifden are in splendid condition. Turnips sown in November are < nearly meeting in drills. We want -a gcod i rain to freshen things up. Shearing is fin- 1 is bed and our wool is away. Crops are well up to the average of other seasons, t and a small amount of grain will go to the f railway this year. • Sports.—Our sports meeting is to be held i on the 26th cf this month. ; WEVIS. January 20.—The holidays are past, and j < once more tilings have assumed their normal . , condition. We are just now rejoicing in a , splendid downpour of seasonable rain, which ] has quite replenished the water supply and , caused a pleasant contrast already on the j gardens and fields, where signs of drought , were too plainly visible. | 1 Kawarau Run.—We have had a survey , j party laying oft' this portion oF the Kawarau j Run and the old Glen Nevis at, Upper Nevis. ; • I have not yet been able to ascertain the j locality of the block of ground to be set , aside for small settlers, but I suppose the , plana will shortly be issued. There will, I believe, be a large number of applica- ' : tions for the sections on the eastern side of ; the valley, which are known, to be both safe and healthy country, and the country is pretty free of rabbits. It is generally , ' thought that the Land Board has put the • price out of proportion with those on the ) west side of the valley, but by comparison : with other portions of Kawarau I cannot ; say I think so. ' Road Improvement.'—l notice the County

> Council is calling tenders for gravelling that * piece of road from Gwins Creek to the 1 Post Office —a much-needed work, —as in the i early spring and late autumn it has been i a perfect quagmire. I Obituary.—l am sorry to have to record ! ', the rather sudden demise of one of our i : most respected residents in the person of i ' Mrs W. Adi-e. The death, coming on j Christmas Eve, cast quite a gloom over the usual glad season. Great sympathy is felt ' throughout the whole district with the : bereaved family. Our departed friend will i be sadly missed not only by ih<e relations, ! but by the whole neighbourhood. «AKST»N. January 15.—The weather is anything but propitious to the grass or grain crops. It ; is the driest for many seasons, the reI suit being that the grass paddocks are becoming hare, and the grain crops are whitening, but not ripening. If rain I does not come very eoon the outlook will j be anything but a hopeful one. A light shower last Tuesday was welcome, but 24 hours' rain would help materially. The extreme heat of the sun during the day and the cold chill of the nights are not conducive to further vegetation. The fruit crop, which looked promising and abundant, is beginning to have a parched and shrivelled appearance, except in cases where the hose can be freely used. I The School.—The additions to the school : are proceeding apace, and when finished j will rjrove of great benefit to teacher and children. The additions will be com- ; plated early in February, j The races yesterday were attended by ■ a fairly large number of people from the ! surrounding districts. As the winning horses were almost ail local ones, a greater ! interest was evinced by the inhabitants in 1 the races. Following are the winning horses and owners' names: —Handicap Hack Race: • C. MaloMey's Black King 1, J. Campbell's j Remember 2. One mile and a-half Trot: j J. Neiil's. M. B. T. 1, R. Muirhead-'e Ken- ' tacky Babe 2. Garston Handicap Race: i W. Butson's Gation 1, J. Crosbie's Grafton j Laddie 2. Two-mile Trot: J. Price's Fan- . light 1, R. Muirhead's Kentucky Babe 2. ' Shorts Handicap : C. Maloney's Black King |l, J. Campbell's Remember 2. Flying ; Handicap: J. Crosbie's Grafton Laddie 1, |W. Butson's Gation 2. Farewell Handicap: J. Sutherland's Glenquoick 1, W. Butson's Gation 2. Race Ball.—The ball given after the races was well attended. The following ladies j were present: —Miss Banks, white dress; Miss Murchlands, blue silk dress; Miss , Emily Murchlands, white silk dress; Miss : Annie Whelan, blue silk blouse, white mus- j lin skirt; Miss Olsen, pretty Mack voile costume; Miss Felton, cream muslin dress, J blue ribbons; Miss Irene Felton, cream de- j laine dress, blue sash; Miss Muirhcad, j pretty cream orepon dress trimmed with j blue;" Miss Sopar, plain white 'muslin dress; ; Mies M'Dowell, cream silk blouse, cream ; muslin skirt, scarlet ribbon sash.j and scar- j let flowers; Mrs Tom Muirhead, white- j figured muslin dress relieved with lace; ; Mrs Ernest. Sopor, pale blue tefibta dress, j Dancing was kept up till 2.45 p.m. The floor was all that could be desired, and a thoroughly enjoyable tao&ning was spent. ARTH'ITRTON. January 17. —The Christmas and New Year seasons, with all their accompanying festivities, picnics, etc., have come and gone for another year. A pause, a lull, and then we return to our accustomed labours with renewed activity. Our old friend, "the weather," asserted his supremacy on several occasions, and forced the would-be picnickers from outdoor sport to indoor shelter. The weather during the holidays was anything but pleasant, at times cold and boisterous in the extreme. Farming. —The crops of grain, turnips, and grass are all looking fairly well, but a few quiet showers would, be very welcome, as the haymaking and shearing are almost past. The rain that did fall was followed by heavy winds, which dried up the ground very quickly. Picnic. —The annual picnic, which was held on Saturday (Christmas Day), was a very.enjoyable one. There were not many present, but, on the whole, the picnic passed off better than any of its predecessors for a few years. There were races for young and old, and abundance of everything to eat. We were all very pleased to see in our midst our old friend, Mr Bagrie, and also his daughter, Miss Joan Bagrie. School prizes and toys were presented' to the children. In the evening a splendid little dance was held. The music for the dance was supplied by Messrs Couperwaite and Hankey. Obituary.—Mrs Smith, late of Arthurton, well known and highly respected throughout this district, succumbed suddenly at her residence in Tirnaru. Much sincere sympathy is felt for the bereaved widower and family, and also the relations, at their loss. WAREFA. January 17. —The New Year was ushered in with heavy rain showers, but since then high winds have prevailed. At present everything is in a very parched state, and if rain does not fall soon the grain and turnip crops will suffer severely. Crops.—Grass-cutting is completed, and some farmers are busy cutting wintersown oats. The spring crops, which looked so promising a while back, are now showing a blighted and withered appearance, and some are ripening prematurely. Picnic.—The second picnic of the Clutha Pioneers' Association was held in the Warepa School grounds on Wednesday, January 12. The day was fine, but was \ spoilt by a strong south-west gale, which no doubt kept many of the older members from attending.. There was a good gathering, but the majority were not old identities. However, those old identities who were present spent a pleasant few hours in recalling the old times and meet- , ing old friends. Visitors were present from Dunedin, Balclutha, and Milton, among them being Messrs Jimes Allen, M.P., Malcolm, M.P., Duke, Wood (secretary of the Otago 0.1. Association), and James Christie. An abundant supply of refreshments \vas_ provided l , and handed . round by the ladies. In the evening the young folks enjoyed a few hours' dancing in the hall. Holidays.—The Christmas and New > Year holidays passed very quietly, the weather being so rough and wet thai many preferred to stay inside on New Year's ! Day rather than brave the elements and j gro to Port Molyneus. There was n© Sunday sohool picnic Ojn Christmas Day this year, but perhaps one may be held

; * later on, as the children look forward to i i it. . ' Church. —The Rev. J. Niven has dccut pied the pulpit for two Sundays lately. ! A congregational meeting is to be held to ( . consider what steps should be taken for • . Tilling- the vacancy caused by the resigna- ■ tion of the Rev. J. Orr. CI/VOE. | January 17. —The long period of drought ! was brought to a close this morning by the advent of a drizzling rain that within an hoar after starting settled mw a steady downpour, continuing - without intermission throughout the day and far into night The turnip and potato crops, are sure to benefit by this copious rainfall, but it is feared that other crops are too far advanced i to derive like beneficial results. Fruitgrowers were complaining bitterly of the ' effects of the drought upor the size and quality of the fruits, but it is thought the rain is likely to stimulate the development of late fruits, and may in a measure ensure an improvement both in size and quality. Pastoralists had much to fear owing to the great scarcity of feed upon the high country, as there was small prospect of anything bei»,g loft to meot the demands of flocks during the autumn and winter months. Everything was browned and parched upon the sunny slopes, the roots of native grasses and thistles being searched by the great heat. Of course, there is the possibility of growth setting in as a result of the rainfall, but unless this eventuates we may expect our pastoralists to experience heavy losses in their flocks during the winter months. As things are cattle and sheep show very marked signs of having suffered by the scarcity of nutritive food. Death.—The death is announced of Mrs Wilson, wife of Mr Thomas Wilson, of Clyde, after a long illness. The deceased, whose death occurred at the Dunstan Hosl pital on Saturday last, leaves seven little | ones, all too young to estimate their irreparable loss. To these and to the bereaved husband the sympathy of the people of the district, is unreservedly extended. ; Angling. —The rivers in Central Otago have Ibeen so low owing to the drought that but little angling has been done of late. The ram may freshen things up a bit and permit the angler to go forth again in the pursuit of his art. Some fairly good baskets have been accounted for this I season. TUAPEKA WEST. Jpiuary 17. —During the past week we hare experienced some heavy thunder showers, and it has made a difference in the crops and turnips, which are looking well. Grass harvest is in full swing, and in a week or so some farmers expect to have their autumn crops ready for the machine. School Concert. —On January 14, in the Schoolhouse, there was hold a very enjoyable and successful concert. It was given solely by local talent, and was quite a credit to the'pecformers. The programme, which was lengthy, consisted of glees, solos, quartets, duets, readings, dialogues, and a tableau. The dialogues and tableau were a source of amusement from beginning to end. All the parts were well acted. That which greatly encouraged the performers was the large and appreciative audience. The young ladies secured Mi M'Kay as chairman for the occasion. In the course" of his remarks he said he was quite taken with the line stage erected for the occasion and the pretty floral decorations, which looked charming. The following programme was carried through: —Glee, "The bells," Tuapeka West Glee Club; solo, ' "Sing me to sleep," Miss A. Taylor; reci- , tation, " Lascar." Mr H. Fogarty; quartet, ! "Ye banks and braes," Mr and Mrs J. X. I Smith, Miss Fyfe, and Mr W. J. Bulfin; song, "A stranger in London," Mr 0. . Goldsmith; humorous reading, Mr Fleming; song, " Recked in the cradle of the dee;)," Mr George Smith; duet, "Loch Lomond," ■ Mr and Mrs J. K. Smith; dialogue, j " Wanted a General Servant," Misses j Young, Bulfin, Williams (2), Fahey, and Mr C. Goldsmith; glee, "See our oars," Glee Club; solo, "Love's old sweet song," Mr W. J. Bulfin; recitation, "The Moon," Master Sammy Golds-mid; solo (in character), " Won't you buy my pretty flowers," Mrs R. Hall; recitation, "Amy Bock," Miss Stewart; solo, "The King's Own," Mr J. K. Smith; duet, " Redwing," Misses Fleming; dialogue, " The Shy Young Man," Misses Young and Williams, Mrs Hall, and Messrs Hart, Fogarty, and Williams ; quartet, "Pro Phundo basso," Messrs J. and "G. Smith, Mesdame? Hall and Smith; tableau vivant, "Three Old Maids of Lee," Misses Young and Williams. Soloist, Miss M. Fleming; Glee, " Happy be thy dreams," Glee Club. At the finish of the programme Messrs Young, Williams, and Fleming moved votes of thanks to the performers, the pianist (Miss Fyfe), and Mrs J. K. Smith for the use of her piano. Mr George Smith also moved a vote of thanks to" the chair. The singing of " God save the King" brought a very enjoyable evening to a close. The proceedings, which were in aid of the organ fund, amounted to £4 7s 6d. January 23. —The weather continues' dry and warm, and the turnips are much in need of rain. The crops, too, would be benefited', especially the late oats. Grass is getting dried up, but there is till plenty of feed. Some oat crops are cut, and general harvesting may be expected in about a fortnight's time. Resignation.—At a meeting of the Milburn School Committee the resignation of Mr T. H. Russell was receivjed and accepted. Improvements.—The , Railiway Department is putting in a new siding and loading bank at Clarendon in expectation of more traffic when Mr Driver starts sending limestone away. —The tramline into the lime deposit is almost completed', and a start is expected in a few days. The lime is going to the Burnside Cement Company's Works, and is of splendid quality. Presentation. —At the conclusion of the usual choir practice at Milburn Church the choirmaster, on behalf of the choir, presented Mr A. Smith with a bound copy of, Shakespeare's poems, and Miss E. B. Smith with a handbag as a parting gift, prior to their leaving- the district. Cricket Match.—The annual crjeket match between Milbuirn and Wylie's Crossing resulted in a draw. The game was a very friendly one, and the visitors were hosmitably entertained by Mr) and Mirs Williamson at their commodious home- ! stead. Laet Wednesday Milburn defeated - LoVeil's Flat by 25 runs, and the return match, played at Milburn on Saturdav re-

suited in an easy win for Milburn by nana wickets. Bowie and Hare bowled splendidly for Milburn. The club have so far this season won three matches, lost one, > and drawn one-. Picnic.—The Clarendon Sunday school picnic was this year held at St. Clair. After a few hours at this fine beach Bi trip was made through Dunedin to the ; Gardens, Museum, etc., on a car, specially j engaged by a well-known gentleman of the ; district. i ism»ox. January 24.—The current season has demonstrated the advisability of having shearing operations performed—subject, of 1 course, to weather conditions being favour--1 able—at as early a period in the season as rsossible for avoiding the fleece being loaded with native burr before that destructive weed has matured over the grazing runs. I may here remark that the woolly sheep (stragglers) now being mustered in are loaded with native burr in consequence of the current season's crop of this destructive weed proving a prolific one over hill and dale. When this description of wool is sent in for sale later on' lower prices will have to be accepted by the vendors in consequence of the fleeces being damaged l by this noxious weed. Strange to say the native burr will flourish and grow as good a cron over poor 1 soil as it will in rich and fertile land. Stock Report.—The wool season is drawing to a close, and a few remarks on the current clip may net be deemed out of place at the present time. • The report from the sheep-farmers here is to the effect that the current season's clip of wool has proved one of the best shorn from the flocks, both .n respect to quantity and' also quality, for a number of years past, while the prices ruling in the wool market at present for this staple product are highly satisfactory to those having wool for sale. The pastoral outlook at present may truly be said to be in a flourishing condition for those engaged >n sheepfarming pursuits. It is gratifying to note that a great improvement is being effected in the flocks for the growth of a superior class of wool bv weeding out the inferior culls from the flocks with a view to bringing up the stock to the highest degree of perfection. The wisdom of keening only good stock and disposing of weedy culls is a progressive step in the right direction. SOUTH TAIEKI. January 17.—Since writing my last notes the crops have come on considerably, audi it is estimated that harvesting will become general in the course of three weeks. The crops this year arc, generally speaking, looking exceptionally well, though some of the extra heavy ones have fallen on account of the late heavy rain and wind'. The grass is keeping up wonderfully notwithstanding the past fortnight has been very hot, dry weather. The milk yield has gone bacfe somewhat, and will no doub!; continue to drop as the summer wears on. A number of the local suppliers still send over the thousand pounds of milk daily, and this year will probably .constitute a record so far as quantity is concerned. There has been some trouble lately with regard to the water supply at the local creamery. The manager (Mr Dugald Sinclair) informed me to-day thjit the directors propose putting down a new well to a depth of some 30ft or 40ft close to the factory. This will, they presume, ensure a continuous supply of real good spring water, which is an absolute necessity where dairying is concerned. Concert. —The annual concert in aid of . the school funds was held in the Otokia School on the 10th under perfect weather conditions. Going by the usual reputation- the committee have for ensuring a pleasurable evening, it is no wonder that the building was taxed to its utmost capacity, several of the audience having to be .content with standing, room. The chairman of the School Committee (Mr J. Lous- : ley) occupied the chair, and in, a few well- , chosen remarks explained the reason _ of j the concert, which was to jseist in buying, j prizes and books for the children's picnic, i A somewhat lengthy though excellent pro- i gramme was gone through by a variety of J performers from Dunedin, Mosgiel, j Outram, Waihola, and the surrounding dia- j tricts, including, of course, the pupils who acted their parts admirably. After the . concert refreshments were handed round, and dancing commenced to the excellent I music of Mr J. Allen on the piano, while \ Mr J. Lousley made a very efficient M.C. ! The picnic, which was held at the Taieri i Mouth, was also well attended. The launch ■ arrived at the Mouth about 11.30, and .tea* i being already made, lunch was immedi- \ ately disposed of. Mr Lousley (chair- , man) and Mr F. Campbell (secretary) andl i the committee got up a series of races for ! the children and young people, after whichi j games were indulged in till tea time, the. \ launch leaving about 4 p.m., and \ home about 5.30. j January 24.—At a general meeting, heifii ! at Otokia on Saturday evening, it wasi decided to hold the South Taieri farmers*' i fifth annual picnic on Thursday next, 27tH| ' inst., on Messrs Campbell and Morrison's ground near .the factory. A committee* was formed (Mr D. Sinclair, chairman) to/ draw up a programme and to act .as officials)/ i during the day. It is anticipated thas this year's function will prove a, record aqi.' far j,s finance is concerned. The fact that, over £5 10s was subscribed in as manij/j minutes shows we have every reason to feel)' ; Satisfied. Refreshments will be supplied free on the ground at 12 o'clock and |f i p.m., and the services of an excellent pipe.. : band has been secured for the day. The) programme, which consists of general fieldi sports, as -well as a number of iraces the ladies and children, will be made \S$ attractive as possible, and a number of, :■} novel items have been added. I am imM formed that _all coining will be made wel-'-' come. Invitations have been distributed: to the directors of the company tod the]' employees and^ suppliers of the five height" bouring factories. -"" "■h **> : W] WOODIiIDE. '" 1 January 24.—The .annual picnic of tfcjg ' West Taieri School was held! in the Glejffi on Wednesday last. T>e day began somep l what glooniily, but by midday the 6U& "' shone out brightly, and resulted in a glori. ; ous afternoon and evening. As Uflliaf $' good gathering iwas on the grounds, an<J! games and friendly chat were heartily MA* dulged in by both old and young. !M usual, too, the School Committee had inadffl ample provision for the wants of the inner man. and there was every evidence of; satisfaction at the commissariat arrangements. A programme of sports warn I

negotiated, and resulted in each child present, carrying away a toy as a memento of the day's fun. A strong band of willing workers kept things going smoothly, and to them the best thanks of all con-ce*-ned are duo for the pleasant and enjoyable day. Harvest.—Harvest operations are hastening on apace. Already a number have begun cutting, and in the course of a few days it will become general. The rams of the last week acted us a check, but this will serve a good purpose, as Rie ripening process had "been progressing too quickly. The osffi especially will nowjiave ■a chance to fill better, and tot up more satisfactory returns. The birds are very numerous, and already Save succeeded in eating up far more than their share of grain. The harvest -outlook, however, is a magnificent one, and there is every Evidence or record returns being attained. MITTKAM. January 26.—The dull and misty weather during the past week has checked the ripening of tho crops, which in some Qlacea was coming on rather quickly. Harvesting has commenced, but Will not be general for a fortnight yet. I am sorry to say the blight has appeared slightly among the potatoes, this damp weather last week favouring it. ~ , - Picnic The Taieri milk suppliers annual picnic was held in the recreation -ground on Thursday. A short programme of sports was carried cut. Among the visitors present were the Hon. T. Mackenzie Donald Reid. jun.. Messrs Nicholson and Bolt, directors of the Taieri ami Peninsula Company. Tho West Taieri Brass Band', and a band of piQers were present, playing lively selection?, at intervals, greatly adding to the enjoyment or those present. Circus. Noil's combined circus and buck jumping show paid us a visit last week, and well patronised. On the second night some mild excitement was oautlcid by one of thoir horses getting out of tho ring, but luckily no harm was done. W.SIMATE. January 17.—Miss Sarah Ycsberg has been appointed assistant mistress at Makikihi. The Rev. J. Harris, Mrs C. Fow, and Miss Carlisle represent Waimate and Oamaru at the Primitive Methodist Conference now being held in Timaru. Mr and Mrs J. H. Mitchell have left Waimate for Melbourne, where they expect to reside for some time. The Board of Education has granted Miss Annie Bruce, Waituna Creek School, eight months' leave of absence in order to go to Europe. The Education Board has decided that ib is inadvisable at, present to remove the Kapua School to another site. Flower Show. —The Waimate flower shew ~''as opened on Thursday by his Worship lijo Mayor (Mr Norton Francis), who reiC'krkod that ho had had the honour of opening six shows for the society in 15 months. The dry weather has interfered to some extent with the number of exhibits. The country districts were represented by exihibits of flowers from Wilfow.bridge and Hook. Oamaru and Timaru .were also represented. Mr Wallace, of .Timaru, contributed a very largo exhibit of pet plants. Mr Bavlis. of Christohurch, showed 30 different 'blooms of gladi,oli. Mr Veitoh and Mr Voss were the most SUCcerJul exhibitors in vegetables. Mrs .Manchester exhibited over 30 different varieties of fruits. The decorated bicycles r3W>res3ri'ted summer, autumn, and winter. ,The Pipe Band played selections during the evening, and Mr Barford had oharge ; of the refreshments. Special prizes were allotted as follows:—Cup given by Messrs i ™.V. E. Hassall, and H. E ; .'M browan for most points in the classes for rpot Plants, cut flowers, vegetables, and fruit PK a g^ TG sS ßn ' scct 'on, Mrs Manchester ; KT r * j cun «or most points Lift ™ v. «■•"•" (eluding pot plants), fMre Manchester; cup given by Mrs Baxter, Lee, and R. A. Nleol for most ..points in cut flowers, Mrs Manchester; ;-toutten and Co. for most points in cut ■flower* .Mrs Manchester; Yates and Co (most points in vegetables. Mrs Manchester -Mrs Manchester's silver rose bowl for most points in cut flowers, J. Wallace; F. T B 'SVT f ~- 7«* Points.in fruit, Mi rEi ' « .-•• I ? looI « most points in vegetables, E. Veitoh; Messrs Yates and So most points in vegetable, E. Veitoh. Chit STK'S^'L* 00 '"™ teir,s »»*' MACKENZIE C OUR THY. .January 15.-Though the .season of good .oheer has passed, nevertheless the « n t=SSii Sfc,U , remams - The country would lorm of. a thoroughly good soakinn- ra in .tS Ve the effects of a somewhat pro Sraoted spell of drought conditions, which if contmumg f or any noticeable length of %SP$ ?, mitl Sate a gamst the attractive',lc? wi-"eV >t" nUal - draffc of sui^!l » stock, I ,<?*• Ws \*o l ; tfiere aces net atmear kL My to* an outlook This t *'t-vt-u e ? ""J"* <*•* ;t must tend **»i L T*^ ng -f he etock remaining on &» i he P ore rh « inclination to "hold iR-TJSrS, S end <> f *• lease H large on the business .horizon Th* presents two sides in Tt tl i mon t hs fe2Sfy y -"s ae of our oM»t and much |K> o.a Jong home in the person of v,. #ames Mo% familiarly k, owr as 4 u ffmmy'; He was of a naturally fetiHng fe 6 being situated *» »S 5 gars latterly-in a very fiocladed position. (le -very naturally dsvelowd more and ■more pronounced propensities of a Moluse. - It is statod that he could iB?i y repeat an y chapter asked for in his Bible.. Moffat was always noted for strict Pfcsntiori to djuty, and the vigilance with ,*fflk>h he overlooked ' : his length" of the fabbit fence for many years, during which 'iVas in occupation, was always a theme 4|ff. commendation by all concerned. For jsKehst year or two eince the eare of the Jferice fortunately became of much Ices imjkfffirtanCKfti Mofi'at t'-as retired on a well-

edrncd pension by the Stock Department, but was allowed io remain at his hut in charge of tho large flock of turkeys the department had located there, and successfully established in his care. The esteem in which the old chap was held by those beet able to appreciate his good qualities was manifest by tho watchful eye of the neighbouring station folk—Haldor.s, Grays, Hillls, and Grampians,—but for whom the old fellowmight have fared badly. It appears Moffat missed one of his regular visits, whereupon Mr James Grant at onee sent out to ascertain the cause. It was advisable to at once convey the man to the station. Mr Grant brought his motor car into requisition, and conveyed the patient to Fairlie, where he ultimately passed away at the age of nearly four-score years, over half of which life had hcen spent in the Dominion, firstly for a short, period in North Canterbury, and then under engagement he oair.e as shepherd for Messrs Dark Bros., whan they owned G-lentanner Station early in the seventies. Shortly after this., in what subsequently proved an unfotunate partnership, the deceased for a short period deserted the pastoral for an agricultural district, but soon resought the more congenial occupation, and returned to shepherding in the Mackenzie country, where lie lived practically without intermission ever since.

TAIERI 31 ffiUTH. January 21. —The weather has been i rather changeable, but, taking it all through, we cannot c&mplain. Some snap* of cold and wot showers, but the showers i have been very welcome to the farmers ' for the. growth of turnips and filling of grain. Everything is looking fairly well. Wo have had, a ad are still having, great numbers of visitors, and the launches are all pretty full, both in coming and return ing to Henley and Titri. Report says wo have had more visitors this year than ever, and when we have the bridge, which is now a certainty, no doubt we will have still more. Tuesday, the 18th, was a busy day bore. Already I notice you have had a short report of the conference of Bruce and Taieri councils. The bridge is assured and the site fixed. The Government has done well for a?, and it now lies with the counties. The work will bo hurried on, as the punt costs a great deal to keep in repair. The punt r s so seldom used, too — not without real -necessity, for if the tide is not right it takes sometimes over an hour to cross, the person or persons crossing bruising their hands in helping, and having to pay a toll as well. What a boon the bridge will be no one knows but those who are compelled to cross the river in the punt. Not only is the expense great in keeping the punt and pontoons in repair, but there is the puntman’s wages to be considered. The Taieri Mouth folk did all in their power to make the County Council, the Hon. the Minister for Lands and Mi.P. for jth© Taieri (Mr Thomas Mackenzie), Miss Mackenzie. Mr James Allan, M.P. for Bruce, and Miss Allen, and other visitors and settlers welcome. The ladies had done well at short notice to provide such a splendid luncheon. The tablets, two very long ones, were very tastefully laid, and the visitors were well attended to by the smiling and attentive young ladies of the Beach. Great praise is due to the ladies, young and old, but they could never have managed without Mr John S. Josephs and Mr G. Coutes. The proceedings went off without a hitch. The only damper was the slight drizzle of rain, which prevented a number from the surrounding hills putting in an appearance. I believe £3OO has been passed for repairing the roads. I trust; some metal, gravel, or earth will be put on the pinches, so that the slippery places will soon he a thing of the past. Mails. —The carrying of the mail has changed hands. Instead of the mail leavinsr early on Mondays. Wednesdays, and Fridays, it arrives at 11 a.m.. and departs the same days at 1 p.m. I don’t know whether this is better, but it is no worse. At any rate, we get our mail earlier, and, if necessary, can answer the same day. Concert.—On the evening of the conference on the 18th inst. a concert was held in the hall, which was a great success. The takings, all things considered, were very good, and the money is to be devoted to buyinu prizes for the school children. The visitors helped considerably with the concert. When we got the bridge, baths and other imnrovements. no doubt, will follow. It will then bo hard to find a better or, more beautiful watering place than Taieri Mouth. WAIKOUAIT!. January 20. —The adjourned meeting of the Waikouaiti Borough Council was held on the sth inst., and was attended by his Worship the Mayor (Mr B. Irwin) and Crs Heckler, Townsend, Vanes, S. R. Smith, and Thomas Smith. A resolution was carried expressing regret at the death of Mr E. G. Allen, and the clerk was authorised to write to the relatives of the deceased conveying the sympathy of the council with them in their bereavement. Constable Kidd wrote suggesting that a by-law bo passed by the. council fixing the closing hour of the billiard rooms within the borough at 10 p.m. Consideration of the letter was deferred until next meeting. A letter was .received from Dr Ogston, Dunedin, asking the council to take action in regard to an alleged nuisance near the Main road, and the clerk was instructed to notify the owner of the property to remove the premises objected to within 14 days. It was agreed to hold a special meeting on the 31st ins.t., for the purpose of fixing the day on which the weekly half-holiday shall be held. It was decided to have the dogcollars required for the cut-rent year made locally, at the price of 9d each, and the registration fee was fixed at 2s 6d per dog. The inconvenience caused by the afternoon express trains not stopping at Waikouaiti was again mentioned, and the clerk was authorised to write to the Minister of Railways suggesting that in the event of the railway time-table being altered, it be so arranged that the trains should stop. Various matters were loft to the dayman to attend to under the supervision of the Works Committee. Accounts amounting to £ls 19s were passed for payment. The annual meeting of the Atheaiceum subscribers was held in the club room on Monday, the 10th inst. Mr W. Mudge occupied the chair, and there was a fair attendance. The report presented by the secretary showed that, as a result of economy the overdraft, which at the beginning of the year stood at £B3 2s 2d, had been reduced to £3B 4s 4d. A number of improvements had boon effected during the year, and the standard of efficiency fully maintained. The amount received in subscriptions showed a, slight falling-off ITs coniparcd with the previous year, but the number of subscribers had increased, being--82, as against 75 for 1908. There had been taken out 33 annual subscriptions, nine halfyearly, &6 quarterly, and 12 monthly, making a total of 120. Seventy new volumes had been added to the library during the year, making the total number on the catalogue 1909. Of three card matches played during the winter months, two were won by the Athcneeum subscribers. Owing to lack of funds the committee was- compelled to leave over several much-needed improvements, such as the renovation of the interior of the hall, improved seating accommodation, and better lighting. It was hoped that these matters could be attended to during the present year. The new committee was specially ungod to consider a proposal to light the Athenaeum buildings with acetylene gas, an estimate of the cost of installation, having been already obtained- , The balance sheet showed’ the receipts to have been £122 6s 4d, and the ex-

I penditure (including overdraft) £l6O 10s Bd, leaving a debit balance of £3B 4s 4d. After the report and balance sheet were submitted and approved, the following gentlemen were elected a committee for the ensuing year : —Messrs H. Carson, B. W. Fell, H. Heckler, M. Jamieson, W. Mudge, J. B. M'Fie, G. M"Keroher, D. Russell, N. Stewart, and R. Templeion. Mr J. C. Crocome was appointed subscribers' auditor. The retiring committee and the auditors were thanked for their services during the past year. At a meeting of the new committee, held subsequently, Mr Neil Stewart was appointed chairman, Messrs B. W. FelJ and M. Jamieson secretary and treasurer respectively, and Mr Thomas Reid committee's auditor. The following subcommittees were appointed : —Works —Messrs Stewart, Jamieson, and Fell; Book Selection —Messrs Davis and Fell. A deputation was appointed (o wait on the Borough Couno'l and ask its co-operation in the installation of an acetylene gas plant for the purpose of lighting the borough chambers and the Athenaeum buildings.