THE COUNTRY.

Otago Witness, Issue 2929, 4 May 1910, Page 39

THE COUNTRY.

S" Correspondents are reminded that all tetters for f!ne current week's issue must reach NOT LATER THAN MONDAY NIGHT. Ijßtt«rt coming to hand on Tuesday are too lata, bc3 are thns a week old when they appear.

LAKE COUKTY

April 30. —Fine weather is still being Experienced, a. touch of frost at night followed by bright sunny days. Our Member. —Mr Fraser, M.P., has been addressing his constituents in the southern portion of the district during the past week. He has been everywhere well received, and at each meeting has been iaccorded a vote of continued confidence'. He speaks at Queenstown to-night, and at lArrowtown on Monday night. Death. —Another of the old residents of the Arrow district, in the person of Mr Reid, of Kawarau Bridge, passed away at the Arrow Hospital yesterday morning, after a short illness. Of a quiet, unassuming nature the late Mr Reid was highly respected, and the news •of his death was received with the deepest regret by his majiy friends. He had followed the occupation of a miner at the Kawarau for a number of years. The date Mr Reid, who was 67 years of age, ileayes a grown-up family of three daughters and three sons to mourn their loss. The funeral takes place at Arrowtown tomorrow (Sunday). Ball at Skippers.—The annual ball in connection with the Skippers school was lb. eld in the Library Hall on Friday evening, 22nd inst. There was a large attendance, and the ball proved a great success, "financially and otherwise. Excellent music was supplied by Miss Dagg (piano), 'Masters Dagg and Aldridge (violins). These players went from Queenstown free of charge. They were assisted during the evening by Messrs Currie and Aspinall (skippers). Songs were sung by Miss Dagg and Mr Donnigan (Queenstown), and Mr J. Cranna. danced a Highland fling, Mr D. Ward acted as M.C. Refreshments on a most liberal scale were provided by the ladies of the district. Mr Lambie (chairman of the School Committee) thanked all those who had made the ball a success. •It is exnected that there will be a profit of about £lO. Householders' Meetings.—The meetings of householders for the election of school committees, were held on Monday evening last. The following committees were elected :—Queenstown—Rev J. D. Webster (chairman) ; Messrs W. Wilcox (secretary and treasurer); D. F. Sutherland, John Salmond, S. B. Patterson, J. W. Fraser, and A. Boyne. Arrowtown: Messrs W. Stevenson (chairman); A. Coodlcy, H. M'Kibbin, P. de la Perrelle, G. H.

Romans, W. ReiH and Dr. Thomson {secretary and treasurer). Skippers: Messrs ! A. Lambie (chairman and treasurer), J. Flynn, C. M'Nichol, W. Johnston, and J. Forbes (secretary). Macetown: Messrs W. H Anderson (chairman and secretary), C. Ross, G. Summers, E. Kelly, and Thos. Reid. Lower Shotover: Messrs H. A. Wicks (chairman), T. Houston. J. Gray, '3SF. Jansen, and J. W. Brown (secretary). Glenorchy: Messrs W. Davidson (chairman), M. Harris, J. Cronin, H. Scott, and C. Forsyth (secretary and treasurer). Auction Sales. —Mr C. E. Gudgeon, auctioneer, held a successful sale of horses find cattle at Glenorchy en Monday last. Horsey brought from £5 10s to £l9. and cows from £4 10s to £7 ss, At Arrowtown on Saturday last, Messrs Cotter Bros, auctioneers, held a sale of horses and cows. Buyers were not plentiful, and cows sold at £3 to £4, while the horses entered woje passed in. Mining.—Sluicing operations are in progress at the Shamrock Company's claim. Arrow River. If the weather keeps open, it is probable there will by a small paddock washed uo before the winter. At a meeting of directors, held on Saturday evening last, the. final call of 2s 6d per share was struck. The Arrow River bluicinp- Company finished washing up their pc '; on Tuesday last. The return ' ob d was 81oz for 17 days' work. At Ski ra all the sluicing claims are in lull work, and good returns are expected from the winter wash-ups. General—Halley's comet has been seen hv Queenstown and Arrow residents, lne iv'inter time-table Jor the railway and steamer service to the Lakes-is announced It is the same as last yo*r-viz., * thor ° u *, h service from Dunedin on Mondays Wed■nesdays and Saturdays and a daily service to Invercargill. Mr J. A. Ahge, at ' Queenstown, is at present, on hi annual holidays, and his place is being ■taken' by Mr Johnston, relicving-orhcei. -The Rev W. J. Ivens gave addresses on the Melanesian mission in St Peter's Sun■day School, on Tueday evening, and in St Paul's Parish Hall. Airow town on Wednesday evening. The K turJr' showed lantern slides of native .life Sn thislands, and the information given "vas both interesting and instructive.-The Lake County Jockey Club decided, at a meeting held on Saturday last for December 9 and 10. as the elate* their annual race meeting.

MANBEVILitiE.

Ma _ i._The weather is vary favourable the farmers to attempt a much _ earhei season for seed time that the grain may a-esist the scorching noa-'-westers- that have wrought such havoc with promising crops a, few weeks before coming to maturity :for a number of years. If the winter is a mild one, sowing at this season will be an success, but -KovU we drift <back to a severe winter that Southlanc ers ■know too well, many will have the pleasure of resowing in the spring. Winter Feed.—The poor prospects of Winter feed has baiised the farmers to throw all their energy into getting all the sheep possible to the freezer within as diarrow a space of time as possible, and consequently the freezing works have been taxed to their utmost to cope with _ the •large numbers pouring in from all directions, until we heard that they were cornipolled to cut off the rabbit industry, and mow, alas!. we hear that the works are so 'full that a clearance will have to be effected. *and that the farmers will have to hold hack their fat stock in the meantime, as ■killing operations have to be restricted for .want of storage. 'Rabbits.—The stopping of the freezing 4&f rabbite at the works was a severe blow

to the people of oui township, the majority of whom depend wholly on the rabbits at this time of the year for a livelihood. As they had gone to considerable expense in renewing their plants in anticipation of a big season, the loss of the best month must leave them very much short of their expectations. School Committee.—The election of a School Committe for the ensuing year resulted in the return of Messrs Ross, Boult, Logan, Bucot, and Young. Mr Ross was subsequently elected chairman, and Mr Bucot secretary. Personal.—Mr H. Gilmour, for many years a resident of Mandeville, contemplates taking a trip to the Old Country. A few nights ago he was tendered a smoke concert in the Public Hall, and presented with a gold albert. The attendance was large and representative. Mr Bryson occupied the chair, and in a fluent speech voiced the sentiments of all present when enumerating the many good qualities possessed by the guest. During the evening some very nice songs were rendered, and altogether a very pleasant evening was spent.—l understand that Mr Cross has leased his farm for a number of years, it being his intention to devote his time to travelling for the benefit of his health, of which he has not enjoyed the best for a considerable time. lam sure his many friends will be glad to hear of the desired result having been achieved, for a kinder, better-hearted nerson it would be difficult to find. Ball.—The harvest home ball is to be held in a fortnight, and given a fine night the attendance will be large, as great preparations are beino- made by the committee.

OTAUTAU

April 25.—That Otautau is progressing by leaps and bounds is evidenced by the appearance of new buildings springing up as if by magic in all directions. Several new and commodious dwelling-houses have jtmst •'been completed, whilst the handsome and substantial concrete building at the corner of Mann street in course of erection for our enterprising townsman, Mr W. Saunders, will shortly be out of the builder's hands. This building, which contains a large public hall and three roomy and imposing shops, will certainly be an ornament to the town. Mr M. Gonlcy's mw brick building, with a showy verandah, also adds to the up-to-date appearance of the main street, and indicates confidence in the future prosperity of the town. Amusements —To judge by the crush each evening the skating rink, recently opened in Saunders's new hall, seems to have taken the popular fancy. The. hall is beautifully illuminated by gas jets, and has a cheerful and cosy aspect, while the space and condition of the floor afford every facility for full scop© of indulgence in "the graceful exercise, and pastime of roller, skating. Indeed, so popular has this form of recreation become that quite a number of elderly ladies of magnificent proportions may be seen cutting fantastic figures and performing acrobatic evolutions.—The weekly circuit of Stevenson's popular pictures opened in the Town Hall last Friday. Though the attendance was not so large as the excellence of the show warranted, yet the appreciation demonstrated by the audience must prove encouraging to Mr Stevenson in his venture to bring a wec'-'r up-to-date picture show before people living away from large centres.—The second annual Otautau sports meeting was held on Wednesday, 13th. The weather turned out wretchedly. bad. Still, the attendance under such circumstances was very good. The various events were well contested, and altogether the day's sport proved most interesting. Notwithstanding the unfavourable weather conditions the society will not sustain a loss over the meeting. The concert and dance held in the evening were well patronised a,nd much enjoyed.—Our Tennis Club has just concluded a most successful season, while bowling and football clubs are also flourishing institutions in our midst.—The Winton Choral Society, consisting o* a full chorus and orchestra of 45 performers, will appear in Saunders's new hall on Wednesday, 27th inst,. in Sir Wm. Gilbert's comic opera. "H.M.S. Pinafore."

Ecclesiastical.—lf regularity in church attendance indicates a. moral community, then the people of Otautau and surroundings take a front seat. Our four churches —the Methodist. Anglican, Presbyterian, and Roman Catholic—each draws large congregations. This is especially the case in the Presbyterian Church, where extra temporai'y seating accommodation has frequently to be provided to meet the constantly increasing number anxious to hear the earnest and eloquent preacher and the well-trained and evenly-balanced choir. A very successful and enjoyable conversazione to welcome the new Anglican minister, Rev. P. C. Fortune, was held a week ago in Saunders's Hall! The chairman (Mr Win. Saunders), after apoloffising for the unavoidable absence of the Rev. Mr Marshall, in a happy and pleasing address introduced the now minister. A capital oration of welcome and brotherly love was voiced by the Rev. A. M'Donald. Suitable selections were rendered by the Otautau Brass Band under the able leadership of Mr F. B. King. Vocal and instrumental items and a recitation by members of the congregation and others made the gathering truly enjoyable. A f tcr a bountiful course of refreshments had been passed round by the ladies the Rev. Mr Fortune addressed the assembly. He expressed his deep sense of gratitude for the kindly welcome extended to him by the people of Otautau, but declared his inability on this occasion., owing to worry and overstrain through serious illness in his family, to do full justice to himself in the way of giving expression-to-his feelings. The rev. gentleman nevertheless made a telling address and a most favourable impression upon his hearers. Land for Settlement.—The public agitation manifested some months ago with reference to the acquisition by the Government for close settlement of the Merrivalc Estate has somewhat calmed down. In the interest of true progress affecting this part of the Dominion this question of closer settlement of Merrivalc should claim the earnest attention of every resident. o f Otautau who lias the real welfare of this country at heart - . On travelling over that district recently I was struck with the vast area of good land lying practically unproductive, but which, if cut up into ordi-nary-sized farms, would support in comfort dozens of families. Another matter that forced, itself upon my mind whilst motoring through Merrivale. Orawia, Clifden, and Otahu was the almcst certainty- of this route ultimately becoming' the popular

tourist highway to Lakes Te An.au and Manapouri. The efficient and comfortable motor and mail coach service now established between Otautau and the lakes is already making this _ route attractive to tourists, and it will simply be a question of time when the Mossburn-Te Anau route will become a matter of history.

WALLACETOWN

May 2.—Keen interest was taken in the election of the School Committee on the 25t.h. About 50 residents—the majority of them being householders—put in an appearance. Rev. Mr Burrows was unanimously voted to preside, and Mr J. Jenkins (secretary of the committee) read th© balance sheet, which showed a handsome credit balance of £3O (approximate). Mr D. Scott, sen. (chairman, of School Committee), submitted the annual report, and entered fully into ways and means. The work undertaken by the committee during its yeax.of office had been considerable. A verandah had been erected to the school residence; a substantial shelter-shed had been built for the comfort ot the children; a school garden had also been trenched and fenced; a large quantity of gravel was laid round the school, and new gravel paths formed at the school residence. Moreover, a newsubstantial fence was just finished in front of the residence. To raise funds to carry out these necessary works a bazaai was got up by the ladies of the district, and two successful school concerts had been held. The head teacher, in submitting his report, said that the roll number was 50, and that the attendance was so high that 94 per cent, was reached for the year. Four pupils had passed Standard VI, and, securing proficiency certificates, had left school—two of them having gone to the Invereargill High School. Reference was made to the term examination and holidays, and also to the most unsatisfactory method of free book distribution, it being thought that the money devoted to this purpose would be far more beneficial if oiven to the School Committee's grant. On the motion of Mr Tapper a combined vote of thanks was passed to the retiring committee and the Ladies' Sale of Work Committee for raising and spending so much funds, and, on the motion of Mr Burrows, to the teachers for the marked progress the school was making under them. The meeting, anxious to show its confidence in the members of the retiring committee, passed a motion that they be re-elected. The committee for the ensuing year is :—Messrs D. Scott, sen. (chairman), J. Bovd, J. Jenkins, I. M'Queen, W. Gray, W. A. Gray, and N. Kelly (the last named being the only new member, elected in place of Mr Wells, who retired early last year). Sickness. —During the last month sickness was very prevalent here, several children being unable to attend school, and not a few adults were likewise prostrated. Halley's Comet.—The comet is arousing some interest, ispecialiy among our juveniles, many of them rising at all hours of the night to see that wanderer, which m all probability they will never see again. 'The very little folks are anxious to see it, hoping they will be privileged to welcome the, strange-looking world on its return. "Now," they .say, "we are little children; then we shall be old, old men and women." Social.—On Friday last there was held in the public hall a social of the combined Bible classes of Wallacetown. Ryal Bush and Taramoa. Rev. Mr Burrows (president of the classes) presided. After a programme of songs, music, and recitations by class members, assisted by Mr Kid. from Invereargill, refreshments were indulged in, after which games, suitable to the occasion were practised and enjoyed. The young men's fortnightly dancing class has commenced, and a good number of young men and women meet every alternate"Tuesj ™ g Vith Mr Jl Jenkins as M.C. and Mr R. Gilmour as musician two hours' amusement are indulged in.

IjUMSMJDTV.

. Ma 'y 2.—The Ist of May has been ushered in with dense fog. The weather on the whole has been health-giving, and I am pleased to say that the town and district are freer from sickness than has been the case for many years. Entertainment.—The newly-formed Negro Entertaining Club held its opening concert in the Public Hall on Wednesday evening, 27th inst. The performance was one of the beet given here for many -years. There was an entire absence of vulgarity in the jokes and dialogues. The hall was packed to standing room. Each and every member did his part well, and the whole entertainment passed off' without a hitch, and excited much amusement, the various performers being heartily applauded. A gymnasium exhibition was given during the evening by Mr Ashley, of Invercargill, and was much appreciated bv all present. Mr Ashby received valuable assistance from two local artists. The entertainment was followed by a dance, with refreshments at half time, for which MiGeorge Small catered. The music for the dance was provided by an impromptu orchestra, composed of piano, violin, concertina, and gramophone. The takings for the above would be about £ls, which should leave a good margin—of profit over expenditure. The surplus hrto be applied to defraying the cost of the members' costumes, etc. The manager of the club, in thanking the audience for their attendance and their hearty appreciation, announced that the club will be prepared to give its services to assist any local charities on any future occasion. Political.—Our highly esteemed member (Mr W. Fraeer) addressed a fairly large meeting of electors on Thursday evening, 28th ult., when Mr G. F. Johnson was voted -to the chair. Mr Fraser reviewed the work of the past session in an instructive manner, and, having answered satisfactorily a number of questions, a vote of thanks and confidence in Mr Fraeer as our member was proposed bv Mr Riddell, seconded by Mr Thomas, and carried with aclamation. A vote of thanks to the chair brought the meeting to a close. Departure.—A much-respected resident in Mr .Tee Pa3'ne took his departure from amongst us about a month ago to enter into business at Centre Bush. Mr Payne during his residence in Lnmeden identified himself with every project that tended to the progress of the town and district. Sporting.—Members of the local Hockey Club are holding practice games on the villiage green. Maid and matron,, boy and man seem to be very enthusiastic in this outdoor mode of recreation if the state of excitement shown goes for anything. Football. —The first club match of the season will be played between the Balfour and Lvtmeden teams next Saturday at 80l-

four. The local club has a few young colts this year who will no doubt bo an acquisition.

Obituary.—A Lumsden young woman named Martha Perrins, daughter of Mrs Bateman, now of Winton, died at Dunedin on Thursdas last under somewhat painful circumstances. The girl had undergone an operation for throat trouble (successfully performed), but she died next day unexpectedly. The body was brought to Lumsden, the funeral taking place on Sunday afternoon, when a large number of friends and relatives followed the remains to the cemetery. Mr Baylis, Jay reader. ci Riversdale, officiated at the house and grave side. Much sympathy is felt for the mother and family in their sudden bereavement.

OTUKEBSUA

April 25.—During the past month heavy north-west to south-west gales have prevailed, and on Thursday, 14th, culm.inaced in a downpour of rain towa.rds night, and cold, south-west wind and hail, sleet, and snow on Friday. Since then the weather has been somewhat more settled—fine days and frosty nights. During the heavy gale on the 14th and 15th the barometer fell to 28.25, and the thermometer to 34 at 5 p.m. on the evening of the 14th. On Saturday night we had 10 degrees of frost, and last night (Sunday) 11 degrees. Stock.—The large yarding of sheep here at the sale on the 14th (some 18,000 or 19,000) was responsible for a considerable drop, in values. Prices ranged from 3s 6cl to 8s for aged ewes, and lis to 14s 6d for two and four-tooth ewes. Lambs realised from 4s 9d to lis, and rams from 10s 6d to 2|gs. Owing to the large entry of sheep the salesmen were unable to deaf with any cattle or horses that were on the ground. At 5 p.m. onejiuctioneer was busy trying to sell some ams, another at the one end of the yard doing the same with a cow. while at :he farthest end another was roaring, " Come this way, boys, while I sell you some cattle," and yet" another, sitting in a buggy, was trying to dispose of the '" gentle-man that pays tho rent "—piggy. I think the stock agents would be well advised' if they held more sales, with smaller entries, with possibly higher prices, instead of such large yardings and accompanying low prices. School Matters.—Miss Bradfield resumed duty on the Ist inst. after a month's sick leave. I believe the holiday has greatly benefited her health. The number on the roll at present is 27. Very little interest was taken in the annual householders' meeting for the election of a new committee, only some five or six persons attending. The - retiring committee was re-elected for another term. The committee reported finances sound and a credit balance of ±is odd to commence the new term. Messrs W. G. Becker and J. Nicolson were reelected chairman and secretary respectively. Halley's Comet.—Halley's comet has been visible here since the 16th. It can be seen fairly plainly on a clear morning at any time from 5 a.m. till 5.45 a.m. ir. the north-east, its head towards the earth, eastward at an angle of about 45 degress. Agricultural.— M.acadie Bros.' milH has been through the district, but as most of the crops wera very light its "settings" were very short. Very little ploughing ha.s been done as yet, farmers being loth to turn down any vegetation, whilst there is a picking at all for stock. Undoubtedly feed is very abort, and, with turnips a failure, the outlook for s-:t:eck for the coming winter is not too bright. Rain is badly needed, for never in the memory of "the oldest inhabitant" has the ground been so dry and springs so low.

TSIAPEKA WEST.

April 28. —Thg weather we have been getting of late has been fit for any part of the globe—gales of wind, rain, sleet, snow, and beautiful sunshiny days. With all of this the land is still very dry for ploughing. However, the farmers on several farms are pushing on with the lea land, and to cope with the haa'dncss they are using, six horses in the double-furrow instead of the usual four in ordinary seasons. Threshing.—The bulk of the threshing is done, and the yield is very varied this season. I hear of tho oats yielding as high as 60 bushels to the acre, and as low as 20. Wheat is much the same—some paddocks as high as 40 bushels and others as low as 20 bushels per acre. The grain is all in good' condition, and very dry and well saved. I think the reason of the varied yields was the dry summer. It is the lea land that has not yielded so well as the other variety of culture. The lea being open and porous, the dry weather affected its growth and ripened it prematurely.. - Fires.—T am sorry to have to report a serious fir® which happened on Mr L. Dalzicl's farm, .when Me.-sirs Ryan Bros, mill was at, work threshing wheat. They put through one of the three stacks in the same set, which yielded about 100 baps, and had part of the second sta.ck through when the fire started on top s.f the stack that the men were forking off. It spread so rapidly that there was barely time to get the engine on to the mill and pull- it out. The men set to work and removed the filled bapofl and saved thorn. The hvo unthreshed stacks were totally destroyed. AH of the wheat was ot Brst-d'iss sample. Great sympathy is felt for Mr Dalziel. who had no insurance on any of the grain. It is a mystery where !he five came from, as itwas >\ beautifully calm day. and there were no funnel.

AKTHTTHTJi^'

Am'il 30.--The weather during the last week has been all that coukl he desired. Prior to that th-ft weather was very stormy. vain, snow, and strong winds prevailing'. Farm work was hindered, but apart from that no other damage w-as done in the district. Farming.—The farmers are busy turning over stubblo ground, the lea ground being rather dry as yet. The turnip crops are looking- very will about bore, considering the bad start they had at the beginning of the season. The mills have come and gone for another year. Two mills — one owned by Cnrrio Bros., of Gore, and (he other by S. Tru.sler, of Waipahi—were busy with threshing operations for about a fortnight. The yield was very fair, riotwithstanding the lightness of the. crop at harvest time, arid I hear the farmers have little or no need to grumble. Clearing Sale.—The National, Mortgage, and Agency Co. held a very successful sal© at Mr Benson's place in Arthurton, he having disposed of his farm to Mr Mason,, of Otikarama. Everything was put up

for absolute sale. There was a goodly number in attendance, and. on© and all are much indebted to Mrs Benson and ladyfriends for the bounteous supply of good things in readiness for their 'uncheon during the sale. Social.—On the evening of April 12 th« many friends of Mr and Mrs Benson and family journeyed to their residence to bi<i them, farewell. Dancing, interspersed with games and singing, was the chief feature of amusement during the evening. After supper had been handed round and the people had partaken of the good things provided by the ladies, Mr dimming, on behalf of the residents of the district, presented Mr Benson wth a beautiful gold albert, and Mrs Benson with a massive silver butter dish (both suitably inscribed), as a token ot the esteem in which they are held by the people of Arthurton. Mr Benson suitably responded. Then Miss Phillis Hocking, in a very nice manner, presented, on behalf of the teaehe* and scholars. Miss Elsie Benson with a beautiful work-box. More dancing was then indulged in, and with the singing of " Auld lang syne" at 1.30 the gathering broke up. Departure.—Mr and Mrs Hocking left; here last Monday for a trip to the Old! Country. On Saturday evening, prior to their departure, many of the residents of the district paid a visit to their home to say good-bye and wish them every happiness on their trip. During the evening Mr Gumming presented Mr and Mrs Hocking each with a travelling rug and straps as a parting gift from their many friends in Arthurton. He .made feeling "referenceto the many sterling qualities of Mi Hocking as a school committee man, resident; and neighbour. Mrs Hocking also was a goodly woman, and they will be both much missed, in the district. However, we hope they will soon return and settle once more in our midst.

Obituary.—lt is with much regret I have to chronicle the death of Miss Kate Walders, who died rather suddenly at the residence ufher sister (Mrs Giles), of M'Nap. Miss Waldcrs was but a few months over 17 years of age. She was much respected by young and old. She had always a kindly word for everybody. One and all extend _ fcheii sincere sympathy to the family in its very sad bereavement.

WAIMEA

May 2.—Trie weather for the past fortnight has been, on the whole, fairly pleasant, frost being in strong evidence at night, with (ine though slightly misty days. Most of tbft farmers have now turned their attention to ploughing for the next season. Literary and Debating Society.—The local L'terary and Debating Society has held two meetings of a preliminary nature Vo arrange the syllabus, etc., for the forthcoming year. Mr A. Murdoch was elected pre-, sklent; Misses Clearwater inrl Stephens and! Mr L. Heenah and Dr Watt vice-presi-dents; and Messrs A. Simpson and IStephens joint secretaries. opening meeting will be. held in the Drill Hall on Mcnrvay, May 16, and will take the form of a combined social and mock ba-nrpvefy ■Another successful year is anticipated b 5 those connected with the -society. Presbyterian Soiree.—The annual social in connection with the Riversdnle Presbyterian Church was held "on Wednesday evening. April 27. The Rev. J. Maelnnea occupied the rhair. and remarked on the very successful year that the church had! just passed through, instancing the repairing and painting of the church, all done at local cost, and the raising of the Sustentation Fund to a sufficient amount to make/ it a self-suonortin<r parish. The Revs. M'Lennan (Edendale) and Paulin (Kelso) were present, and addressed the congregation. Reports were given of the O.E. Society and S.S. by Mr G. Tait. and of the Macandrew S.S. byMrD. B. Stevenson. The musical part of the programme waa contrioiited to by the following:—Misses: Hicks. Templeton, M'Lennan, MefTct (2).' and Messrs Shaw and Stuart; and a recitation was given by Mr Lccke. The accompaniments were .played by Miss Maclnnes and Mrs W. Stevenson. Refreshments were handed round by the young people of the congregation. School Concert.—The annual school concert in connection with the Kaweku School was held in Mr Campbell's barn on Friday evening. 29th ult. Mr R. Kennedy, senr., was chairman, and introduced a good programme of singing and recitations. Items were contributed' by Misses Smaill, Templeton, and Cleland, and Messrs G. Green. W. M'Cutc-heon. C. Heenan, W. Templeton. and W. Watt. The room was cleared for dancing, which was kept up till an early hour. Mrs M'Curcheon and Miss Sma ill acted as accompanists, the former plavinsr for the dance. Mr J. Aitken fill* filled the duties of M.C.

OITTKAM

May 2. —During the past week beautiful winter weather has prevailed. Th." recent, rain has softened the ground somewhat, and 1 enabled the farmers to make a start ploughing the lea ground. More vain, however. is a-anfod, as it is difficult to make a stood job yet. The straw press is busy eleaninat the natldocks of surplus straw. Personal.—The many friends of Mr Arthur Robertson will be pleased to heai? that, he is taking uo hi- residence in thei district again. He has been a number of: years in Southland farming, afd having sold out to advantage, is now hiking Carlowrie farm. I wish him the same success as he had in Southland. Football. —The football season opened' on Saturday, West Taievi defeating Southern. B bv 27 points to nil. Trios were wro-recH for the winners by Pearson, J. Little (3), Mossy (2), and G. Bathgate. Mr Stalker made a most' impartial referee.

MAUNCATtJA

-AjPril 30. The annu.nl social of the Maungatua Presbyterian Church was held last. Tuesday evening, and .attracted a large. numbar of members and friends. As it was beautiful moonlight, visitors came from long- and were well repaid, as a long and varied programme of vocal and instrumental music was provided, which was greatly appreciated. The church was beautifully decorated for the occasion with) pink and white sosmos. cactus dahlias, and! autumn leaves in all their glorious iinfas o£ Nature, including mountain" ash, sycamore, etc. The effect was very pleasing, and reflected much credit on the deoaraters, the Misses Kempsholl. The Rev. W. Spenca occupied the chair, and i:i the course of a* few opening remarks explained the object) of the social gathering, and referred to th# progress niaSe by the Maungahia nertof his congregation. Addreses were delivered by the Revs. J. Aitken (Mosgiel), Kinmoni

(East Taieri), and D. M'Coll (South Taiera). The vocalist? included Mrs F. M'Dairmid, Miss Bathgate, Messrs Strong, Reid, Watson, Jno. Bathgate, and Harlow. A violin, solo by Mr M'Bryde was a musical treat, and evoked an undeniable encore. Quartets were rendered by Mrs F. Matheson. Miss J. Kempshell, and Messrs Jas. and Jno. Millar. The accompanists for the evening was Miss A. Heenan, and Mr J. M'Bnide. During an interval refreshments were handed round, and were much appreciated. These being provided by the ladies of the congregation. After the usual (votes of thanks, the sinking of the National Anthem, and the pronouncing of the benediction, a very successful and enjoyable evening was brought tc a close.

AMBERLEY

April 28.—The weathei has been very unsettled lately, and we have had several squalls, blowing down several trees, and doing other small damage; but to-day it seems fin© again, but very cold. It is quit© unusual to have such boisterous weather in Canterbury at this season of the year. Farm.—Ploughing is now in full swing, everyone being busy preparing the ground to sow early oats, and hoping for a better harvest next year, as the oats and wheat did not thresh out up to expectations. Some oat crops only yielded 31 bushels to the acre. The most of the turnip crops were blighted. . , . „ . Hunt.—The Hunt Club held their first meeting of the season about a fortnight ago. There was a goodly muster. A slight accident happened to one rider, his horse falling. The horse was killed, but the rider escaped with a severe shaking. General.—The English Church held its annual luncheon and sale of work or Monday. Beipg sale day. the takings were good. The proceeds are to go towards the •Deaconesses' Home in Christchurch. The annual horticultural show is to be held on May 7, and promises to be a huge success.

WAIKO HAITI

May 2.—A public meeting was held on Friday last for the purpose of considering' a proposal to form a Debating Society in EWaikouaiti. There was a good attendance and the Rev. J. Featherston was voted to the chair. After the proposal had been discussed, it was unanimously decided that a Litera.rv and Debating Society be formed, with fortnightly meetings during the winter months. The following officers were elected: President, Rev. J. Featherston; viee-presi-Uents—Slessrs A. S. Orbell and A. M. Cameron; secretary and treasurer, Mr B. W . ■Fell; general committee—Messrs Feathersifcon, Cameron, Malloch. Williamson, and y Fell. It was decided to ask Mi A. S. Orbell to read a paper, prepared by Mr Macleod Orbell, on the "Early History of fWaikouaiti " at the first public meeting of the society, which was fixed for Tuesday, 'the 10th inst. For the second meeting, a debate has been arranged the subject being ""Town versus Country Life." Other debates and popula.i lectures will follow. Borougb Council.—The monthly meeting of the Borough Council was attended by the deputy-Mayor (Mr A. Heckler) and Crs Davis,' M'Gill, Townsend, Toomey, Russell, and S. R. Smith. An apology for ■non-attendance w r as received from Cr Thomas Smith, and he was granted two months' further leave of absence. A number of 2|p'plications for repairs to- streets were referred to the Woife Committee to report at next meeting. It was decided to applications for the position of fcorugh laino-li'ghter, and to call for tenders "ii'or maintenance work, including the cartage of rotten rock' and river gravel, as well "as the supply of single and double horse teams for day labour during the current i year. It was agreed to notify the Domain Board that Cromarty street must bo left in good condition before any further soil can be taken for top-dressing purposes. "VTnist Tournament.—A novelty in the bhape of a whist- tournament has bee.i arranged by the Athenasum™su!bseribers, and as at present beim? placed "off in the club•room. Twentv subscribers are taking part, and the plav is likely to prove interesting. Mr E. Davis has agreed to present prizes to the winner l .

KOL'Tlf TAIEXI.

May 2. —We are having lovely weather just now. This morning was exceptionally mild for this time of the year. Last week Hwe had one or two pretty ©eve-re frosts, but avhcs proved to be the beginning of beautiful sunny days. There has heen no rain for some time past, and the grass is looking yery dry. Creamery.—The local creamery is vvorkiniQC every "other day as from the beginning tlnis month, and the general supply has fallen to about one-third of. ths highest quantity of the season. The manager in■ Jfor'rns me that there is still a. very limited. eupply of water, and he still has to cart jwater from the river to wash up with. . Witer Diviners. —Mr Seguin.(a man who jprcTr£.s>es to be able to find water) visited the locality in company with some of the directors of the company in the middtS of ''January last, and acting under his advice a well was dug to some considerable depth '#by himself and another. This took about months to complete up to its presnst stage, and I understand it is to be left as 'a- practical failure, the well only being capable of drawing about 30 gallons per day. Farm Work.—PlouohinKr is now well advanced on most of the farms, and several iihiave commenced sowing. Turnips are not booking too well about here : they are mostly |temal] and blighted. Mangolds are looking tiin-e, and there are some "very good crops about here. Football. —A football match, Henley v. was played l on Messrs Kain Bros.' ground at Henley on Saturday, 30th ult. : .The game resulted in a win for Berwick s>y 6 rjoints to 3. It was played in a most sSfriendly spirit throughout. I understand iJthe Henley team intend playing a return shortly, and are open for a. game ...with anv other team who have a vacancy, i Hou'seholders' Meeting.—The annual meetijing of householders for the Ototoia district wtook place in the school on Monday last. iThere were only six householders present, .■and the following were elected.—Messrs J. jLoiusley (chairman), F. G. Campbell (secrefStrv), D. Sinclair, P. O'Leary, and J. B. lEtead', ■

LAND SALE

A sale of town and suburban land:-:, for cash was held on April 27 at the District Lands Office, Dunedin. There was fair competition for the sections in Cromwell. The greater portion of the remaining land was. taken up at the upset, with the exception of a section in the North-East Valley survev district, the upset of which was practically doubled. Mr F. A. Cullen, of the Dunedin office, acted as auctioneer. The following is the result of the sale: TOWN LAND. Bannockbuhx. Sections 8 and 9, block I, lr 38p, upset price £lO, valuation for improvements £l9O 7s 6d; W. S. Crombie, at upset. Ranfurly. Section 38, block V, lr, upset price £5; A. H. Baker, at upset. Section 39, block V, lr, upset price £5 ; A. H. Baker, at upset. Section 40, block V, lr, upset price £5; A. H. Baker, at upset. Section 23; block VII, lr, upset price £5; J. W. Comissiong, at £6 10s. Section 24, block VII, lr, unset price £5; J. W. Comissiong, at £6. Section 7, block IX, lr, upset price £5; William Pringle, at upset. SUBURBAN LAND. Cromwell. Section 3, block XIX, 32p, upset price £3; George Hayes, at £25. Section 4. block • XIX, 32p, upset mice £3; Annie Maria Hcsking, at £2O. Section 5, block XIX, 32p, upset price £3; Annie Maria Hosking, at £ls. Section 6, block XIX, 32p, upset price £3; James Goodger, at £7. Section 7, block XIX, 32p, upset price £3; James Goodger, at £7 10s. Section 10, block IX, 32p, upset price £3; Annie Mary Chalmers, at £lO 10s. Section 11, block IX, 32p upset price £3; Annie Mary Chalmers, at £6 10s. Section 12, block IX, 32p, upset price £3; Annie Mary Chalmers, at £7. Section 13, block XIX. 32p, upset prie £3; D. A. Jolly, at £6 10s. Section 14, block XIX, upset price £3; D. A. Jolly, at £7. Section 1, block XX, 32p, upset price £3; .las. Goodger, at upset. - Section 2, block XX, 32p, upset price £3; Jas. Goodger, at upset. Section 3. block XX. 32p, upset price £3; D. A. Jolly, at upset. Section 4, block XX, 32p, upset price £3; D. A. Jol!v. at upset. Section 5, block XX, 32p, upset P«ce £3; Jas. Goodger, at upset. Section 6, block XX, 32n, upset price £3; Jas. Goodger. at upset. Section 7, block XX, 32n, upset price £3; D. A. Jolly, at unset. Section 8. block XX, 32p, apset price £3; D. A. Jollv, at upset. Section 1, block XXVIIL 32p, upset price £3; Jas. Goodger, at £7. Section 2. block XXVIIL 32p, Upset price £3; Jas. Goodger. at £3 10s. Section 3, block XXVIIL 32p, upset price £3; Jas. Goodgfcr. at £4 ss. Section 4, 'block XXVIIL 32p, upset price £3; Jas. Goodger. at £4. Section 5, block XXVIIL 32p, vfliset price £3; Jas. Goodsrer. at £7. Section 6, block XXVIIL 32p, upset price £3; Jas. Goodsrer, at £4. Section 7. block XXVIIL 32p, upset price £3; Jas. Goodger. at £4 10s. P Section 8, block XXVIIL 32p, upset price £3; Jas. Goodger, at £5. Clyde. Sections 8, 9. and 10, block VIII, lr each, upset price £1 each; Sidney A. Stevens, at upset. North-East Valley Survey District. Part 44, 3r 21p, upset price £l2 10s; William Spillane, at £23 10s. Waipahi. Section 3, block I, lr, upset price £2; John Black, at upset. Sections 6 arid 7. block I, lr each upset price £2 each: John Black, at upset. Station 8, block I, lr, upset price hi, A ex. Robertson. J . Section 9. block I, lr 10p, upset price £?• Alex. Robertson, at upset. Section 10. block I, lr sp, upset price £2: Alex. Robertson. . „ Section 14. block I, SOp. upset price £2, John Black and Alex. Robertson, at upset Section 15, block L 31p, upset price £2, John Black at upset. Sections I'. 2.3, 4. 8, and 9. block UL, areasranging from 18p to lr, upset price £> in each case; Willliam Banks at-upset. Other Section* in Ranfurlv and Warpah. were passed in. and all the sections in Pembroke and Sutton were passed in.