THE COUNTRY.

Otago Witness, Issue 3085, 30 April 1913, Page 35

THE COUNTRY.

Correspondents are reminded that all letters for the current week’s issue must reach Dunedin NOT LATER THAN MONDAY NIGHT. Letters coming to hand on Tuesday are too late, and are thus a week old when they appear.

BALFOUR. April 25. —In common with most parte of Southland, we had our share of the recent floods, and although Balfour escaped—a few losing fences and crops — the settlers near the Mathura River were not so fortunate. The Ardlussa Estate Company estimate their loss in stock and crop at close on £2000; Mr Felix M'Guinness lost over £SOO in sheep, as well as fences; Messrs John and Thomas Keown lost heavily in crop and fencing; in fact, none in the neighbourhood of the river escaped without losing something. Those who lived there, too, had much damage done to their houses and to their contents. The heavy rain at the- time and in the following few weeks left the ground in such a sodden state that standing' crop could not be cut, the binders sledging, and old-fashioned back-delivery reapers have been brought to light and turned to account. This past week must have allowed a great deal to be led in. Altogether, the farmer who goes in for much cropping has had anything but a rosy time this harvest. Entertainments. —We have had a lair share of these during the last few weeks. On March 17 a concert and dance was held by the members of the Roman Catholic Church, a good big crowd being present at ,a most successful function. On April 2 a concert and dance was also held, in aid of the funds of the local Tennis Club, the programme being the most varied ever offered to a Balfour audience. [Names would be too numerous to mention, but Mr Sutton was a host in himself. As conjurer, musician, and drill instructor, he had a large share in the lengthy programme. We also had a visit from a speaking Picture show, always a popular entertainment. Debating Society.—A few enthusiasts are making an attempt to start <a debating society, a splendid way of putting in the winter evenings. Good nublic speakers are not very common in Balfour, and a society of this kind may help to bring out talent. We wish them luck. Weddings.—There have been quite a number of weddings lately. Mr W. Andrews, Pahiwi, was married to Miss Voss, of Canterbury; Mr Charles dial!is, of the Railway Department, Lumsden, to Miss Florence Quested, Balfour; Mr R. Bews, Railway Department, Riverton, to Miss M. Condon, Balfour; and Mr M. Kennedy, Invercargill, to Miss Cooney, Kingston Crossing. Clearing Sale. —The Ardlussa Estate Company held a clearing sale at their camp, Tomagalak, on April 23, a fair crowd being present considering the distance from Balfour and the state of the roads. Satisfactory prices ruled, a good portion being bought in by the company. Changes.—Mr J. Barker, for the past six months statienmaster, has been transferred to Fairfax, his place being taken by Mr J. Davies, Gore.

17IOSSR! RN. April 25. —During the past week the •weather has been all that could be desired —beautiful warm, bright days, which have been greatly appreciated after the recent stormy weather. Farmers generally have been busy with their harvesting, and should the fine weather continue, will soon have all their crops in stack. Sale.—The stock sale was held on Monday, 21st hist. There was a large entry of stock, but prices were only fair. Ministerial.—The Minister of Railways paid a visit to our district on the 23rd hast., and was met by a deputation of settlers with a petition fo,r a daily train service. The Minister promised to inquire into the matter, so we hope it will not be long before we have a change, which would be a great improvement on the existing system, as at present we have the train here only two days a week. Social.—The anniversary social of the Presbyterian Church was held on the 23rd inst. in the Public Hall. Being a fine night, there was a large attendance, and a very pleasant evening was spent. The Rev. Mr Shaw occupied the chair, and an address was given by the Rev. Mr Culliard, of Balfour. Songs, recitations, dialogues were given by the following ladies and gentlemen:—Mrs Crosbie, Misses Eletow, Southberg, Browning, Dawson, Small, and Messrs Griffiths, Lee, Allen, Tilley, Culliard, Page, Reid, and Martin. Mr Dawson thanked all who had assisted to make the social the success it was. Refreshments were provided by the ladies.

TAHRAS. April 22. —During the past few weeks the weather has been very wet, with a slight coating of snow on the high tops, and it is still very unsettled. The fog keeps low down, hiding the sun from us and making the days very cold and bleak for this time of the year. We have had more rain than usual, but we are far better off than our Southland friends, as we have not been flooded out. Farm Work. —Thrashing is well on the way here, and, with fine weather, should finish in a few days. The yield in most places is fair, but nothing to boast about. Some few farmers have most of their crop sown, and up above the ground, and there should be record crops here next season judging by the quantity that is going in. Some of the runholders are putting hundreds of acres under crop. I think they should be compelled to eat their crop off, as it is not fair to the small farmer who is paying 2s and 3s an acre, while the rnnholders pay about 6d. There is talk of a petition to block the runholder selling his crop.

Social. —A farewell social was tendered to Mr Millar, manager of Melvon Downs, who is leaving the district. Mr Millar was presented by his Morven Hills and

Tarras friends with a gold albert suitably inscribed. Mr Shadrach, in making the presentation, spoke of Mr Millar as a good sport, especially in helping the Pigeon Club along, and hoped Mr Millar would come back again, as they could hardly spare such a good sport from the district. Mr Ceilings also spoke highly of Mr Millar as a boss, saying he was second to nope. Mr Millar suitably responded. Dancing was kept np till the early hours of the morning. Music was supplied by Mr Harley Trevathan, and Mr Huddelson and Mr J. Ceilings acted as M.C.’s. Stock. —All stock are looking very well and are in good condition. Dipping is in full swing, and with a few fine weeks there should be plenty of winter feed. Turnips are looking remarkably well, and are the best crops that have been seen here for some years. Mr Collds has a fine crop of mangolds.

LAKE COUNTY. April 26.—The weather during- the past week has been more settled. Hard frosts have been experienced during the past few nights. Farmers in several parts of the district are still busy harvesting, the season being very late. A slight shock of earthquake was felt here this morning at about 10.30. Football. —The annual meeting of the Queenstown Football Club, hold last week, was well attended, Mr J. 8. Collins presiding. The balance sheet showed a credit balance of £3 17s 9d. The following officebearers were elected :—Patron, Dr .Stewart ; president, Mr J. S. Collins; captain, Mr B. Garforth; deputy captain, Mr T. Harris; Match Committee —captain, deputy captain, and J. Olsen; General Committee — captain, deputy captain, O. M'Bride, A. Sutherland, and J. Hannah; auditor, Mr W. D. Warren; secretary and treasurer, Mr F. Anderson. Messrs J. S. Collins and T. J. Wilson were appointed delegates to the sub-union. Mayoral Elections. —Not a great deal of interest was taken in the mayoral elections in Queenstown and Arrowtown. Messrs J. Edgar (Queenstown) and T. Connor (Arrowtown), the retiring Mayors, declined nomination, and Messrs D. F. Sutherland and 11. M'Kibbiu were elected (unopposed) Mayors of Queenstown and Arrowtown respectively. The Scott Memorial.—Tho Queenstown Senior Cadets, who are collecting funds with which to eijcct a suitable memorial in Queenstown to the late Captain Scott and his companions, are meeting with a satisfactory resnonso. The amount collected so far is" £2o‘is 3d. Mataura Kilties.—The Mataura Pipe Band and a concert party, who have made a tour of Central Otago, gave entertainments at Arrowtown and Queenstown on Saturday and Monday evenings last. Large audiences greeted the kilties in both towns. Golf.—Tiie annual meeting of the Arrow Golf Club was held last week. There was a largo attendance, Dr Thomson presiding. Tho balance sheet showed a credit balance of 18s 6d. Tho election of office-bearers resulted as follows:—President, Mr W. G. Blackie; vice-presidents, Mrs Paris and Mrs Pope; committee—Dr Thomson, Messrs A. Good ley and J. I. Melville; secretary and treasurer, Mr A. J. Campbell. It was decided to have a formal opening day at an early date. Concert and Dance. —A concert and dance in aid of the Arrow Hospital guarantee fund was held in the Gihbston Schoolhouse on Friday evening, 18th inst. Tho affair was a great success. the net proceeds amounting to £7, which must be considered very satisfactory, as the population of Gihbston is not large. Items for the concert were contributed by tho following Pianoforte overture. Mrs Chalmers; songs by Mrs A. Bix;tt, Misses 11. Kinross, M. Enright, and Chalmers, Messrs D. K. Barron, 11. bcott, F. Dunlop, R. Archer, .1. I lakers, and K. 8. Cotter. The concert concluded with the humorous dialogue entitled “Hoaxed and Coaxed,” the following taking part:—M.sses L. Enright, L. Perriani, and M. Leslie, Messrs F. Perriam, G. Enright, and C. Leslie. Mrs Chalmers acted as accompanist to the singers. An enjoyable dance was hold afterwards, for which music was supplied by Messrs Chard and Dakers. Mr B. Lawton acted as M.C. The Gihbston ladies provided an abundant supply of refreshments. Accident. —A lad named John Wilcox, son of Mr R. Wilcox, Arrowtown, had his feg broken at the ankle while playing seesaw with other hoys last week.

LUIHSUEX. April 28. —The weather for the last ten days has been beautifully line, and those whose harvesting is late are having a good time. One or two more weeks will see all tile gram crops secured, but in what condition 1 would not like to say. 1 am told that there is a great shortage everywhere, owing no doubt to the inclemency of the passing season and disastrous floods. Postal Affairs.—The chief postmaster at Invercargill, Mr King, paid us a visit the other day to select a site for the new post office. One or two private properties arc on offer to the department. As the Postal and Railway Departments are negotiating an exchange of suitable sites, it is premature to say where tiie new post office will be built, but, for the convenience of the residents and the travelling public, it is imperative that the pest office must be in close proximity to the railway station. Picnic.—A combined Sunday Schools picnic was hold on the 15th inst. at Castlerock, on grounds kindly lent by Mr Barnhill. The picnickers were conveyed to the rendezvous by large drag and waggon kindly placed at the disposal of the organiser by Mrs J. N Crosbie. It was a redletter day for the young folk. The catering for the edibles was entrusted to Mr G. Small. All kinds of outdoor games were indulged in, the losers and winners alike receiving prizes. The Revs. D. J. A. Shaw and H. W. Biathwayte and Messrs Allen and M'Folridge, Sunday school superintendents, and many lady friends all worked hard to make this annual pleasurable outing for the young folk (and aged as well) the thorough success which it was. The Rev. Mr Shaw called for hearty cheers for the Sunday school teachers and all kind friends who had contributed in cash and kind, also to Mr Barnhill for the use of his grounds. Those were enthusiastically given. Entertainment. —A school concert in aid of the I.nmsden Public School funds was held in the Public Hall on Friday, 18th. Mr A. Small presided. The hall was packed to the door by a very appreciative audience.

Proceedings were opened by an overture by the blisses M'Curdy and Becison, followed by a comedy, Punch’s Party,” by pupils, given in a manner that called ISr much praise to the instructors, the head teachers, •Mr W. H. Clark and Miss ’iait. In the second part of the programme a piano duet was given by Mrs Clark and Alias Tait; an action song by the infants (‘‘Who killed cock robin?”}; “Dolly's lesson,” Bertha Reid; song (‘‘The little IriJn girl”), by Miss Doreen Griffiths, who was encored; action song (“The old umbrella”), infantroom children. The last item, “The Lost Uncle,” was given by the ex-pupils of the school. The chairman thanked all present for their attendance, and the teachers for the trouble they had gone to in getting up the functions, and all others who had in any way contributed towards making the entertainment such n, success. The inevitable dance followed, and was well patronised. The proceeds amounted to £l7. Ministerial Visit. —The Hon. W. H. Hcrries, Minister of Railways, and party, accompanied by Messrs Anderson and Thomson, M.P.’s, paid this district a visit last Wednesday. They were met by a deputation of residents and business men of the district—namely, Messrs G. F. Johnson, J.P., Jno. M'Felridge, J.P., Jno. M‘Arthur, J. X. Crosbie, and D. Fraser. The Minister’s attention was drawn to the serious damage caused to the township and railway property by the recent flood, and lie was asked to have the protective works at the wash-out completed without delay, otherwise another flood would swamp out the township and railway yards and buildings. Air Hcrries said ho would consult with the Hon. W. Fraser, and they would both give the matter their due consideration. The post office site was next referred to. Air Kerries could see at a glance the absurdity and inconvenience of the proposed site, and he promised to place the position before the Postmaster-general, the Hon. Air Rhodes, when it was possible an exchange of sites might be made by the Railway and Postal Departments that should be quite satisfactory to both departments. Business Change.—Air James Jack has taken over Air E. Jones and Sons’ butchering business, and is taking possession on the first of next month. Air Jack is well and favourably known throughout the district.

Railway Staff Changes.—Mr J. H. Unsvvorth, a much-rospcctcd and trustworthy officer, has been appointed as stationniastor at Lumsden. Thore of us who know Mr Uns'worth have every confidence in him as a trustworthy and affable officer in his department. H.M.S. Now Zealand.—Everyone around here is anxious to sec our own man-of-war. It is to be hoped arrangements may be made that will permit of the vessel coming up to the Bluff wharf. If so Southland and his wife arc sure to pay the ship a visit of inspection ; otherwise hundreds, if not thousands, will be unable to do so.

WAIIIATIiKU. April 26.—Tire weather at present is delightful, and traces of the recent flood arc fast disappearing. A good deal of damage was done to the potato and turnip crops on low-lying ground, and in some cases they are practically ruined. Very little thrashing has taken place, and it is difficult to form an estimate of the probable yield. There is a feeling that oats will be good property before spring, and holders are in no hurry to sell. Dairying.—The continued dullness in the cheese market is viewed with some concern, and I understand the Wright’s Bush factory has reduced the price of butter-fat to lid per lb. At this price there is very little inducement to hand-feed cows, and tlio season will probably close much earlier than usual. Marriage.- A pleasant function took place on the 2nd inst., when Grace, second daughter of Mr and Mrs Southern, was married to Mr George Georgcson, of Otautau. The day being fine, there was a largo gathering of relatives and friends to witness the ceremony, which was performed by the Rev. A. Macdonald. Miss Nellie Southern, sister of the bride, and Mr Jas. O'Neill, of Otautau, fulfilled the duties of bridesmaid and best man respectively. After the ceremony the guests repaired to an adjoining building, where the wedding breakfast was laid, and a short toast list was enthusiastically honoured. Included amongst the presents were a massive silver teapot from the Waianiwa school childreh a handsome set of silver-mounted toilet requisites from the Wainiatuka Bible Class, and a valuable clock of original design from the employees of the Otautau vVoodware Factory. Personal. —Mr D. Connor, one of our. most successful farmers, recently left on an extended tour which will embrace the United Kingdom. America, and the Continent. Mr Connor has always evinced a keen interest in politics, and lie has also made a close study of the industrial and social problems which arc disturbing the world at tl 10 present time. He is, therefore, looking forward to gaining a closer insight into these matters, and will doubtless have something interesting to relate upon his return. So far. Mr Connor has resisted the wiles of the gentler sex. but, as ho purposes spending some time in Dublin, it will not he surpris’ng if ho falls a victim to the charms of one of the maidens for which that city is famous. During his absence the management of rim farm will be in the capable hands of Mr Walter Ranee. Induction.—The Waianiwa Church was filled to vorflowing on the 26th nit., the occasion being the induction of the Rev. J. Chisholm, late of Mangaweka (North Island), to the pastoral charge of this parish. The Rev. A. Begg. assisted by the Rev. Mess re Grav and Ryhurn, conducted the service. This was followed ! y a soc ; al. when addresses were delivered t>y the ministers present In extending, on behalf of the congregation, a hearty welcome to Mr Chisholm, Mr Strang made humorous reference to the vicissitudes . f our Southland climate He fa : Wl, however, to find an ally amongst the other speakers, who were at some pains to combat what, in the light of recent experiences, was no exaggeration. Mr D. Macpherson also conveyed a welcome from the Church Region. During the vacancy the Rev. A. Begg acted as Moderator, and, in presenting him. on behalf of the Church Management Committee, with a handsome travelling rug, Mr D. Marshall warmly thanked Mi" Begg for his excellent tact and assistance in arriving at a settlement. A combined choir, under the control of Mr J. R. Brown, produced several anthems, and solos were given by Mrs R. Blue. Miss Brown, and Mr James Blue. Refreshments were sewed in abundance, and the usual votes of thanks terminated an event which wae

charcterised by an unmistakable display of harmony and goodfeilowship.

TI AI'KKA JIOI'TH. April 28.—During the past week the weather has been extremely fine. For the greater part of the week the nights have been frosty, with clear, sunny days following. After a long spell of bad weather the fine days are much appreciated. Harvest.—The grain is now mostly in, and a great part has already been thrashed. As far as I can hear, the yield has, in most cases, proved satisfactory to the parties concerned. River Steamer.—Owing to the recent •high state of the river, the running of the river boat has been somewhat irregular. This is a source of great inconvenience to those who wish to forward their grain to market, and the advent of a railway would prove a very great boon. Winter Outlook. —Although there is not much grass about, everything has the inclination to grow, and, provided we do not get any very severe frosts, I think the stock ought to do well during the winter. The turnips are looking well, and promise a very satisfactory yield. Social. —Some time ago there appeared in your columns a note of the accident that occurred on the punt on Alareh 11. Owing to the heroic efforts of Air Xehoff (puntsman) and Air Bennie (brother of the lady concerned in the accident) what might have boon a tragedy was successfully and gallantly averted. The people of the swrroundmg district recognised the gallant efforts put forward, and on Thursday, 24t,h, tendered Air Xehoff a concert and dance. Mr Bunn occupied the chair, and after a varied programme had been gone through, and gereral gentlemen had spoken os regards Air Xdioft’s sterling worth and the gallantry he 'had displayed. Air Xehoff was presented w : th a gold watch and chain, suitably inscribed. Songs were rendered by A'losrs D. Blair, Hardy. Lucas. AT Gown, and AFKenzie; readings by Alcssrs Keenan and Skinner; and recitations (3) by Mr AlaeDougall. Alies Drain made a very able accompanist. After the concert was over refreshments—kindly provided by the ladies _..\ VPrP handed round, and when these were demolished the hall was cleared for the dance, which was Kept gens till 2 a.in. The dance music was supplied by Miss Drain (pianoh Mr IVI' Cork inda 1 e (vlor.n), and Air C. Edwards (cornet). Air AV. Drain aet°d' as AI.C. Church Alattere. —The harvest thanksliving service was hold on Sunday. 27th. The church was tastefully decorated by some of the ladies. Dump the service the choir rendered suitable anthems. The day bom" perfect, there was a large attendance, who listened with rapt attention to the oloar nrsd able discourse of our mi meter, Mr Pate.

waitai’iika. April 28.—Although during the nights wo have had a few frosty snaps, the weather throughout the past fortnight has been splendid, and the settlers are taking itic opportunity of getting their work well advanced. Harvest. —Our district seems to, if anything, have faired better than some of our neighbours, the harvest having been all got in in good order, and there is already quite a large acreage of autumn oats sown. Some of those have sprung, and arc looking very well , . . Freezing Works. —There is no doubt that the South Otago Freezing Works are proving a boon to the settlers. A large number of fat lambs have been sent in from here, and the farmers seem to be satisfied with the prices they receive, and are of the opinion that, had it not been for the local works, the prices ruling would have been considerably lower. It is not the farmers alone who,'benefit by the works. We have two rabbit-carters in the district running for opposition firms, and sp keen is the competition that the trappers are receiving 7J)d per pair on the fence for their catches. This is an exceptionally high price, and should pay the trappers very well. Fire—One of our settlers, Mr A. Smith, had the misfortune to have his house burned clown. He bad in the evening gone out to a social, and on returning found the house in ashes. As Mr Smith has not been very well lately, a good deal of sympathy is felt for him in his loss. Debating Society.—Last Wednesday the first regular meeting of the newly-formed Waitapeka Debating Society was held in the clubroom. The subject for the evening was a debate on “Country v. ffown.’ Ihcrc was a good attendance, and all present took a part in the discussion. Messrs J. D. G. Sornmervillo and A. Abcrnethy (Toiro) took the leading part for the country, and Mr E. Skinner and Miss Carrier for the town, whose side won the debate by one vote. Mr J. A. Somerville occupied the chair for the evening. Mr A. Petrie and Miss Mina Fletcher have been elected president and secretary respectively. Shearing.---I understand that the farmers around here " ill be able to got their sheep shorn with machines next year, Messrs Sarginson Bros have purchased a portable machine, and are now ready to commence criitching. Personal. —The new teacher, Mies Carriek, lias now taken up the school here, and as she brings good reports from her former positions, she and the children should get along all right.

WAIWEItA. April 28.—The weather is beautifully fine at present. The land is now in splendid order for working, and this is tempting a good many to push ahead with all speed to got in as much crop as possible. After all, it scorns as though there would bo a good deal of sowing done right away should the weather keep good for a few weeks. As pretty well all the harvesting is done, it can be readily seen that the quantity of grain in the district is not. nearly so much as usual ; indeed. I think I am safe in stating it is much below an average crop. Turnips are not by any means plentiful, so that, on the whole, I don’t think winter feed will he too plentiful. At present, however, stock look well, and in most, cases are in the pink of condition. A large number of fat lambs are regularly leaving the district for freezing. Prices of grain and stock are encouraging. Deaths. —Mr Sheddan’s death has caused a groat blank in the district where he was so well and favourably known. It was followed closely by the death of Mrs M‘Gaw, iunior, in the same part of the district. There is general and sincere sympathy for the bereaved Roads.—Our roads are now in splendid order for the carting of the grain to the station —an important item in our programme.

Territorials.—Our soldiers have returned from camp, and judging from their appearance, I should say they have not suffered many hardships in undergoing their practical training. Kindness to Animals. —I have just received the printed report of the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and in it is the horse’s appeal, which I reckon, should be kept in a prominent place where animals arc kept in every part of the Dominion to bo read by all and sundry.

WADUTE. April 23. —At the meeting of the South Canterbury Hospital and Charitable Aid Board, held in Timaru on Tuesday, two copies of an Order-in-counoil were received horn Dr T. H. Valentine, notifying the board that in future, instead of the representation allowed by the present regulation viz., one representative for the borough and two for the county,—there will bo three members allowed for the combined district of Waimate Borough and County. Mr Francis stated that both he and Mr Hart had opposed this, and expressed the opinion that the bodies concerned should have been notified before ttie change was made He would move that the department bo written to and asked for an explanation. He also stated that, even on the basis urged by the department the county would be entitled to three members if the borough were entitled to one. Other members agreed that it was unfair to change the basis of representation. Lecture.—On Wednesday Mr P. Fraser, of the Federation of Labour, gave an address illustrated by lantern slides. Personal.—Mr W. J. Wills, for four years conductor of the Waimate Brass Rand, has resigned the position. Mr Wills has made a brave light against, adverse circumstances, and now the band has a comfortab'o hall for band practice. This hall, situated in feaearman street, is owned by the band, and, being let for other purposes, the momlM>rs hope it will soon be free of debt. Mr F Keen has been elected as Mr Wills’s successor. Accident.—A peculiar accident happened to the live-year-old son of Mr D. Dick, schoolmaster, at Ilannaton. The little boy, while playing near a well, fell a distance of 40ft into about 18in of water. Ho was rescued after a short time by Mr Mayne. An examination by Dr Hayes revealed a scalp wound, hut no further injuries. Waihao Downs.—Several changes have taken place at Waihao Downs. Mr Wm, Brown, who has for some years driven the Waihao Downs-Waimate coach, was one of the successful applicants for the recently--cli\ klod Mount block, noar Alburv. Mr Brown has boon succeeded by Mr Donnegaji. Miss M'Carthy, head teacher at Waihao Downs for some years, has resigned on account of her health. The position is being temporarily filled by Mr M‘Sweeney.—Mr T. Chcyne Farnie, M.A., has been appointed to fill the vacancy.— Miss Croagh, who has acted as librarian of the Public Library for some years, has also left the district. April 26. —A number of ladies and gentlemen assembled at the Council Chambers on Monday to formally welcome Majorgeneral Godley on the occasion of his first visit. The Mayor (Mr John Black) presided, and extended a cordial welcome to General Godley, who in reply said ho had been engaged in visiting places where there had been trouble, and was unable to visit Waimate earlier as there had been no trouble in the district. The South Canterbury Infantry Regiment, had been in camp recently at Yaldhurst, and they had reason to be proud of the Waimate youths. Of the 32 companies present tie Waimate Company was among the be At He was glad to, say that the opposition to the 'general training of their youths was vanishing. St. Patrick's Church. —The ceremony of blessing the tower of this church took place on Sunday. In the morning Dean Reynault, the former incumbent, gave a history of ecclesiastical architecture, and then referred more particularly to the present tower designed by Mr Pctrc, of Dunedin. Appreciative reference was made to former pastors, to subscribers, and to the building fund. The preacher at night was the Very Rev. Dean Hills. Bazaar.—The bazaar in aid of the Mor* ven Anglican Church was opened by Mi R. 11. Rhodes, the county chairman, who congratulated the stall holders on the excellence of the display. The bazaar proved highly successful. Amusements. —A harvest, home in aid of the funds of the Nukuroa Coronation Hall was held in that building last Friday. Aliout 40 counles were present, the music was supplied by Miss J. Kearton (piano), and Miss A. R. Kearton (violin).—The Waihaomnga settlers held a most successful picnic at Mr J. Armstrong’s homestead on Friday. An interesting programme of sports, in which old and young were catered for. proved enjoyable. Hunt Club. —The Waimate Hunt Club had imstponcd the opening of the club in favour of Hie Ram Fair, and it seemed likely that a further postponment would be necessary on Thursday, 17th inst ; but the weather cleared in the afternoon. The huntsman, with 11 couples of hounds, trotted to Mr George Court’s property, whore, after some trouble, a hare was put up. Immediately, however, it made for the river bed. A further attempt was made in Mr Stevenson’s paddocks, but the ground having become too greasy the hounds were whipped off. Afternoon tea was provided by Mrs Hobbs, and before dispersing hearty cheers were given for Mrs Hobbs and for the farmers who had allowed members to hunt over their property. A good many ladies and gentlemen took part in tho hunt, while a number were motoring or driving. Valedictory —The Scottish Society entertained Mr and Mrs Hume and family at a social gathering in the Oddfellows’ Hal! on Wednesday. About 200 persons were present to bid good-bye and wish Godspeed to the guests prior to their departure for a trip to tho Old Country. Mr and Mrs Gnddes presented Mr and Mrs Hume respectively with a jewel badge in the form of a gold Maltese cross and a gold chain and pendant. Tho chairman. Mr W. G. Paul, then called on Mr Norton Francis, who made a complimentary valedictory speech, to which Mr Humo suitably responded. Potato-culture.—A meeting of importa nee to potato-growers was bold recently in the Willow bridge Schoolroom, when potato-growers _ from tho Lceipfnn and Waimate districts im-t to hear addresses nriven hy Mr W. Martin, B.Se., Agricultural Instructor, who dealt with the potato botanically and chemically. Mr A. Buchanan who dealt with manures and explained experiments

carried on at Willowbridgc, and Mr M'Gowan who dealt with blights mm •prays. Mr Garland, president of the Waimate Farmers’ Union, welcomed the visitors and apologised for the absence of Oamaru growers. The meeting resolved itself into a social gathering, and discussed the lectured. Saturday moi mug was spent in examining experimental plots, at Willowbridge, and the visitors were the guests of Mr and Mrs H. E. M Gowan for luncheon. The gathering was considered so profitable that it was suggested to make it an annual affair. Deerstalking.—Messrs E. C. and Carlisle Studholme returned to Waimate from a three weeks’ deerstalking in tine Hunter Valley, Lake Hawea district. Mr E. C. Studholme (says the Waimate Times) brought home a bag that was tho envy of the whole party. It consisted of one stag’s head, a royal with just 12 points, bat as fine a head as has been got, the experts say, for 10 years. It is a real Scotch stag, and was the only deer -Mr Studholme shot in tho three weeks. The party were away at the top of the V alloy, higher than anyone else.

UVIKG9TOKE. April 28.—The weather of late has been very wintry, and snow fell on the high country on more than one occasion. W e have also esperienced some sharp frosts, so at present there are indications of an early winter. Owing to the dry spell before the cold weather set in feed for stock is not so plentiful as it has been other years. Army Festival.—The annual harvest festival and sale of produce took place a short time ago. A splendid programme had been arranged, all of the items reflecting great credit on those who had instructed the performers. The sale of produce was brisk, and, the attendance being large, the affair, apart from being very enjoyable, was financially a success. Tennis Social. —A social in aid of the Tennis Club was held in the hull on tho 18th. The night was pleasant, therefore a fairly large crowd assembled. Mr Lorv occupied tho chair, and in a few wellselected remarks explained the object of the social. Mr D. Kennedy acted as M.O. in a very capable manner, and the music was supplied by Mr Barnes (violin) and Miss Beck (piano). Miss Eileen M‘Quado opened tho programme with a well-rendered pianoforte selection, and while tho company were having supper '"‘graphophono selections were given by Mr W. Frater, and were much appreciated. Tho remainder s of the evening was taken up by dancing, interspersed with songs. During the proceedings Mr Lory (on behalf of Mr Hood, of Oamaru) presented Master Alan Blanchard with a silver medal in recognition of his gaining the highest number of points in the shooting competition. Mr Lory congratulated liie recipient on his success and spoke at length on the advisability oT boys being able to shoot well, as in the event of them being called upon to defend their country they would find their knowledge fn that direction of great service to them. Tho proceedings terminated at 2.30 a.m., one and all having enjoyed themselves thoroughly. Games, —The winter games have commenced, and are being hold in the hall weekly, and are well patronised by the young folk. It is to be honed they prove a success, as it is essential that the young people should have some form of amusement during tho winter months.

FIAXBOt U^E. April 21. —The rush of tho season is now over. Crops, except in tho back-hlooks, are mostly threshed, and the bulk of the lambs are away. Owing to the strike at tho works, however, the total tally for the year will not be much over half tho number. Tho price remains at, for lambs 5d to sid; quotations for wethers and ewes are 3jfd to 2]|d, respectively. Store ewes, if young, are selling up to 15s, and good store lambs from 9s to 11s; culls at anything down to 4s. Beef is scarce. Produce.—There has not been a great deal of barley sold as yet. Prices seem to be about 4s a bushel in Blenheim. A good deal of chaff has been sent to the North Island at from £2 8s to £2 10s. The demand and price for this seem likely to improve. Weather. —Wo have had some good rains lately, but unfortunately, the weather has been cold with some frost after it, so the growth has not been great. Grass. —There have boon some big burns on the runs during tho lust month, and much surface sowing has been done. Cocksfoot, ryegrass, and clover take well on the hill country here if sown on a burn in the autumn, and in a few years make a good sole of grass, and greatly increase the carrying capacity of the country. General.—-The Town Hall is now in course of erection, and the weather-board-ing is almost finished. —Large stocks of railway material in the shape of rails and slooners are lying here, but the works seem to have ceased altogether, which seems a nitv. as about five miles of track were practically ready for laying the line.—Mr Paterson, who used to drill (he Territorials and Cadets here, has left the district with the rest of tho railway staff. Before he left the boys promoted him wir.h a pipe as a token of pood feeling.