THE COUNTRY.

Otago Witness, Issue 3102, 27 August 1913, Page 35

THE COUNTRY.

JSP Correspondent* are reminded that all letters tor the current week’s issne must reach Ttnaedin NOT LATEE THAN MONDAY NIGHT. Letters coming to hand on Tuesday are too late, tlai are thus a week old when they appear.

LiKG CmiNTT. August 23.—Mild weather is now being experienced, and farmers are busily engaged in ploughing. Dairying.—With commendable enterprise Mr R. M. Paterson, of Ayrburn, Arrowtown, visited Winton last week, and purchased from Mr W. Norman, who is going put of dairying, his entire herd of 35 dairycows. Mr Norman is said to have oeen one of the most successful breeders in the Winton district, and each animal of the herd has been carefully selected, and has also passed the tubercular test. Mr Paterson is offering a number of the animals for private sale, and this presents a good opportunity to intending suppliers of the Bake County Dairy Factory.—At a meeting of the directors of the Lake County Co-opera-tive Dairy Company Mr Walter J. Linton, of Dunedin, was appointed manager. There were 12 applications for the position. Mr Linton, whose application was supported by excellent testimonials and references, was employed, for four seasons at the Parkvale Factory, Carterton, and acted as first assistant at Omimi Factory for three seasons. He was first assistant at Melrose Factory, Kaponga, for some time, and last season he acted as manager of the Tarawcra Dairy Company’s factory, Hawke’s Bay. Mr Linton will assume his duties on September 1.

Bachelors’ Ball.—The bachelors’ ball, held in the Garrison Hall, Queenstown, last evening, was a great success. There was a largo attendance, all parts of fho district being represented. The music was supplied by Miss Gudgeon (piano), Messrs J. Fraser (violin), F. St. Omer and A. Fraser (cornets). Mr J. J. M'Bridc acted as M.G. A dainty supper was provided. Personal. —Master Theo. Aldridge, who has acted as messenger in the Queenstown Pest Office for the past two years, has been transferred to the Wellington office, where ho is to be employed in the mailroom. Prior to leaving Queenstown he was made the recipient of a presentation from the staff of the post office, and he was congratulated on his promotion.—The death is announced from Auckland of Mr Gwen MTntyre, brother of Mr Thomas MTntyre, Pleasant View, Arrowtown. Deceased was a resident of this district in the early days. Social. —A social and dance in aid of St. Patrick’s Church was held in the Athcnajum Hall, Arrowtown, on Wednesday evening last. The night wak fine, and there was a largo attendance. The dance music was supplied by Stevenson's Orchestra, and Mr George Logan carried out the duties of M.C. Refreshments were supplied by a committee of ladies. At intervals, songs wore contributed by Miss Cowan (Gibbston) and Messrs W. Stevenson and H. Scott. General. —Mr T. Johnston’s soven-horso waggon team mot with a mishap at Swiftburn, Cromwell road, last week. In rounding the turn at the Arrowtown side of the bridge the driver (W. Small) took the team too close to the outside, with the result that the road gave way, and the waggon went over into the creek. Fortunately, the king-bolt came out, and the horses got clear. The driver jumped out and escaped unhurt. The waggon, which was laden with coal, was slightly damaged, and it will be a matter of some difficulty to got it out of the creek. —At a mooting of bachelors held in Arrowtown on Saturday evening last it was decided to hold a ball on September 12. A strong committee was appointed, with Mr John Smith chairman and Messrs J. B Hunter and H. J. Scott joint secretaries.

*f A*I»FVII.EE. August 25. —The weather has been favourable to stimulate growth, which is of extreme importance in u season like this, when winter feed was such a scarce .commodity; but the soil is kept all too wet to push on cultivation work, and if we could only get a few weeks without rain, with plenty of sunshine, to give the farmers a chance to prepare the ground for grainsowing, all would be well. The average area devoted to grain in this part of the province will ho lees than for a great many years past, if not the smallest since the land was taken up. The difficulty of obtaining good yields and a good market combined with the ever-increasing expenditure, compels farmers to give their attention either to sheep or dairying. Proposed Dairy Factory.—A meeting is to be held in the Public Hall this evening to see what support is likely to be forthcoming to establish a dairy factory in the township. It is to be hoped that it will receive the support, it deserves, as there is such a large portion of the district more adapted for dairy-farming than anything else, and until it. is utilised for such a purpose good returns will never bo obtained from it, by the fact that it is too lowlying The difficulty that has always stood in the way of a factory in this locality is that the land is held in too largo holdings; hut the time is coming, and it is not far distant, when the fertile soil on the Mat-aura, Waimea, and Otamita Rivers will all be grazing cows instead of sheep, and supporting one of the largest factories in the province.

Progressive Euchre.—Tho progressive euchre party and dance was again a great Success, every table being occupied. Mrs Oroad was the most successful on the ladies’ side, and Mr J. Miller won the gentlemen’s prize, the booby prizes going to Miss Smith and Mr Boult.

Social. —The Church of England social ■was not the success the promoters anticipated. Striking as it did one of the severest nights experienced for a long time, onlv those living close to the township could venture out. The attendance consequently ■was disappointing. It was most unfortunate, for had the night been favourable a bumper house would have greeted the per fonrers. The secretary (Mr T. R. Carroll) secured talent from far and near, and was able to present a programme the like of which has seldom, if ever, before been pre seined to a Mandoville audience. Tie also decorated the hall very tastefully, the stage especially being a work of art. Wedding.—A wedding of considerable interest to the district was celebrated at the residence cf Mr T. TTararert on the 2'hh inst.. when Miss llargert and Mr D. Dodds were joined in the bonds of matrimony. The day was beaut'fully fine, and as invitations had V-eer. sent to friends of the brid. and bridegroom far and near, a large

number had gathered at “ The Pines ” to witness the wedding. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. Rugby Pratt, of Gore. Mr Andrew Dodds, brother of the bridegroom, attended as best man, while Miss Jones, of Christchurch, filled the important duty of bridesmaid. The bride was given away by her father, and looked very pretty in her bridal robes. The wedding breakfast was laid out in a large marquee erected for the purpose, arid after full justice had been done to the nice things a short toast-list was gone through. The officiating minister proposed “ The Bride and Bridegroom.” Mr D. Dodds responded, and various other toasts were honoured. Mr and Mrs Dodds left immediately by motor car to catch the express for Queenstown, where the honeymoon is to bo spent.

lIA WE A FLAT. August 19.—1 n common with other parts of the country, wo have had an exceptional amount of ram during the past few weeks, but fine weather haa now get in. Occasional light frosts are still being experienced, but, owing to the copious rainfall, the crops are looking exceedingly well, and there is every indication of a prosperous season. Football Club. —The local Football Club must be congratulated on the fine performance put up by the Hawea players in the season just closing. Of seven matches played, six have been won by the local players, a result which cannot- fail to be gratifying to the club and its supporters. School Concert. —The annual concert and dance in aid of the school funds was held on Friday, July 18, and was a success in every respect. Many of the items were contributed by the school children, and the pleasing manner in which they acquitted themselves gave evidence of the careful training bestowed upon them by their teachers, Miss M‘Lean and Mr J. Lenihan. The following ladies and gentlemen kindly assisted in promoting the success of the entertainment: —Songs—Mrs Bovett, Mrs Johns,'Mrs Spoil's and Mr J. M‘Lennan (duet), Miss D. Kingan, Miss 0. Connolly and Master D. Connolly (duet), Messrs W. ’ Bovett, D. Bell, D. Dow, C. Harvey, D. Kane, J. M‘Lennan, and J. Ryal; rccitations—Mr Jas. Lenihan, Mesdaines Bovett, Spcirs, and Johns, and Misses E. Kane. J. M'Loan and M. Murphy acted as accompanists during the evening. Mr T. M'Kay acted as M.C., music for dancing being supplied by Mies J. M‘Lean, Messrs D. Bell, J. Barclay, H. Connolly, C. Hodgkinson, and A. Miller. In a few well-chosen remarks the chairman (Mr S. Hansen, son.) cxpr<?ssod the thanks of the School Committee to the ladies of the district for providing refreshments, to the performers, and to all who had assisted in making the function a remarkably successful one. Shooting.—Several matches have recently been fired under the auspices of the local Rifle Club, and at one of these the medal donated by Mr J. Forbes, of Christchurch, was won by Mr L. Robertson. Messrs D. Kane, A. Kane, and Jas Kane secured second, third, and fourth places respectively. For the silver cup provided by the club a match was fired on July 18. Mr John Kano secured first place, Messrs D. Kano and J. Lenihan equal points for second, and third place (a tie also) resulted between Messrs C. Harvey and L. Robertson. On both occasions Mr J. Barclay acted as range officer, the handicappers being Messrs R. Gray, D. M’Lennan, Jun., and D. Urquhart.

FAIRFAX. August 22. —W© have had variety of climate during the present month—mild and dry during the first part, three days’ rain in the middle, and now wo are having keen frosts that will check the grass, which was coming on nicely. Food. —Although winter feed has not been as scarce as was anticipated, roots arc petering out rapidly, and if September proves a backward month stock will have a hungry time of it.

Stock.—Both sheep and cattle are realising high prices, breeding ewes are in great demand, and not obtainable at any price.

Literary and Debating Society.—At a meeting of the Literary and Debating Society. held on the 28th ivlt., the question “Is Compulsory Military Training Desirable in New Zealand?” was debated, Mr T. M’Kcnzio leading in the affirmative and Mr J. Brownridge replying in the negative. Tho vote resulted in a win for the affirmative by a substantial majority. On the 11th inst. the seating room of the school was taxed severely to accommodate the large audience that gathered to hear the debate between tho Wild Bush and Fairfax Societies on the the subject, “Town v. Country.” Tho Wild Bush Club, which was represented by Messrs Griffiths (leader), Robertson, Anderson, Humphries, Officer, and tho Rev Watson., epoko in support of the country; whilst tho local club’s elect—Messrs Borland (leader), M'Farlanc, Kitto, M’Kcnzie, Ford, and Tagney —advocated tho claims of town. Mr G. Meek occupied the chair and the Rev. J. Shaw, of Invercargill, ached as judge. The contest was a keen one, and both sides were highly complimented by the judge at tho close of tho debate. Fairfax won by eight points, tho scores being, Fairfax 323, Wild Bush 315. The Fairfax Club has been very successful in inter-socicty contests, having won seven out of eight debates. One pleasing feature in connection with the work of the past two sessions is the progress made bv young members who have won their way into the representative team and thoroughly justified their inclusion. Ball.—On tho Bth inst. the annual bachelors’ ball was held in tho Public Hall. Weather conditions were perfect, and lovers of the ter.psichorean art from all parts of the district were present in large numbers. Pictures—Last Saturday evening, owing to something going amiss with tho engine, the Massey pictures people had to refund the entrance money to a hall full of disappointed pleasure-seekers. Dairy Factory .—The Fairfax Dairy Company has sold its output for the coming season at 63d, f.o.b. The annual meeting of shareholders is to bo held on the 30th inst.

WIMSDEIt. August 25.—At the beginning of the month we had a heavy fall of snow, and there is still a coating on the mountain tops. This was followed by hard frosts at night, with warm sunshine during the day. The past week was beuuti.ully fine, and there was every indication of on early spring, but the barometer went bock gradually on Saturday, and at night heavy rs : n fell, and continued all Sunday. Protective Works. —The pile-driving and embankment at the recent w.vihout is making good progress under the Upervieioji of the county engineer and staft. When completed it "will give the town a feeling of

security from real danger of being washed away. '

Bazaar. —The Anglican Church held a very successful bazaar on the 13th and 14th of this month, finishing up with an enjoyable dance on the 15th. This was the best patronised and most profitable function of the kind held here for many years, the purpose for which it was got up being in aid of the church building fund, which will benefit considerably by the taking of over £IOO.

Ecclesiastical. —The Lumsden-Mossburn and Oastlerock Presbyterian charge being vacant, the congregation, with the Moderator (Rev. Mr Miller, of Dipton), are negotiating with Mr La Hoohre, a student in Otago University, to fill the charge during the vacation (five months). This young preacher has gained the appreciation of the congregation, who are looking forward with much satisfaction to his engagement in church work throughout the parish. Sickness. —Mrs Andrew Small, who has been in a private hospital in Invercargill for some weeks undergoing a serious operation, has had a bad time; but her friends arc now pleased to learn that her medical attendants advise that their patient is now out of danger, and is on a fair way towards recovery.—l am pleased to have to note that Mrs Jr'A. M'Donald, whose health has been causing some anxiety for some time, is now much better, and is able to bo about again.

Football. —A friendly match was played boro on Saturday between a combined Gars ton an :1 Athol team and Lumsdcn, resulting in a win for the latter by 17 points to nil.

TIIAPEKA noITH. August 24.—The weather of the first week of the last fortnight was very wet, and in conjunction with many other places we received our downpour of rain; but since then and until about 9 o’clock last evening the weather has been fine. At this hour, however, the weather again broke, and up to the time of writing there has been a ceaseless downpour, with no signs of clearing. Water is lying everywhere, and if tins heavy rain has occurred up country, the Clutha River is bound to go up. Roads. —During the past week the roads, with one exception, have dried considerably. This exception is tlhe Punt road, which is in a state nothing short of disgraceful. It it cruelty to animals to drive them along it, and unless a horse is very staunch one would never get through the mud. What this road will bo like after the present rain can bo better imagined than described. Amusements.—The weekly dance is still in full swing, and, except for this dance, Tuapeka Mouth is entirely without amusement of any kind. Some of the people have recognised this fact, and at a meeting hold in the hall on Friday evening it was decided to hold a series of progressive euchre parties, each meeting to terminate with a dance. Mr E. Dayman, convenor of the meeting, is to bo admired for his piogrcssivenoss, and it is to bo hoped that his efforts and the efforts of the appointed committee will meet with a hearty response by the people. I may add that the proposed gatherings are not for the sake of amusement alone, but rather in aid of the hall funds. There is, I believe, a debt owing, and the money obtained by the above gatherings is to be devoted to the paying off of this debt. Railway League. —At a meeting of the Railway League, held in the Greenfield Hall on Tuesday last, it was resolved that the Government be approached with a view to the placing of a considerable amount on the Estimates this session for the commencement of the railway line extending from Balclutha to Tuapeka Mouth. It is to be hoped that the resolution passed will meet with success. It seems strange that the lino to Beaumont, etc., was not taken from Balclutha instead of from Lawrence. Had this been done, Tuapeka Mouth would have had the railway long ere now. Apart from this, look at the cost of formation and the country that would be opened up. If wo look at these carefully, and then compare the Lawrencc-to-Beaumont line with the Glut ha Valley lino, we plainly see that the latter line has many advantages. The cost of the formation of the Big Hill tunnel alone would have formed a considerable portion of tho Valley line. I earnestly hope that we may have justice don© us at last, and that the Olutha Valley lino will be constructed at no very far-distant period.

OWAKA. August 22.—Along with the rest of tho country we experienced the heavy rain and high wind last week, T-he rain was the most driving and penetrating we have experienced in this part for some time, and there was scarcely a house in the district — new or old —that did not leak. All the rivers and creeks in the district wore in high flood, and a good deal of damage was done to bridges, culverts, and fences. There were some losses in sheep ami cattle on the river banks, but the losses were nothing great. The Owaka River overflowed its banks and the swamp at Tahora was a sheet of water. Miss Dutton's residence at the bridge was in danger of being flooded, and had tho water risen another foot it would have entered the house. Tho bridge at John Todd’s was partly washed away, and the surfacemen have been kept busy repairing tho sundry damages. Since tho heavy rain, however, the weather has been beautiful—frosty mornings and bright days. Tho roads on the metal parts have dried up nicely, and on tho high land the farmer is taking advantage to do some ploughing. Very little gardening has boon done in the district, but the grass is coming away splendidly. As yet we have had no snow this winter, but it is not yet too late, as I well remember on more than one occasion seeing quite a heavy fall in November. First Aid.—A movement is on font with a view to forming a first aid c’ass. The first meeting—ladies—is to be held in tho social room of the library building, on Monday evening. A class for men will be held on a separate night, and as our Dr Stenhouse is taking a great internet in tho forming of the class, there should be a first-class attendance at both meetings. Valedictory.—Mr and Mrs John Henderson and family, who late’y sold their farm (Quakorfield), and who have been residents here for the past 17 years, have bought a small farm near Invercargill, and have departed to their new home. The familv have been members of the Presbyterian Church, and they will be much missed in the diet ret. The church members and friends in the district made suitable recor.nition of fne services of tho family in Bible class, choir, and guild, where they faithfu’lv worked. Many friends assembler] at the railway station to wish the family Godspeed. Improvements. —What is now known as

the White Stores (lately occupied by Smith Bros.), is being enlarged by the addition of a handsome brick building, which will be a vast improvement. The young men who have taken over the business are diligent and obliging, and as they are moderate in their charges, they should command a good share of custom. Mr. Cohen, from Balclutha, has also opened a drapery store in the township, and has a good display of goods.

tapajtui. August 25.—There is one thing that residents m this part certainly cannot complain about, and that is want oi moisture. Ol late we have had more than a lair share of rainfall and threatening floods. Last week the weatlier was dehgiutul—frosty nights and beautiful warm days. Roads dried up quickly, and farm land was getting into order lor working preparatory to seed-sow-ing. bearing the end of the week, however, the glass steadily fell, and weather prophets indicated a. storm. Friday and Saturday were overcast, and on Saturday night ram set in. Y esterday morning creeks were running over their banks, and all lowlying paddocKs were again under water. This will take some very dry weather to amend, and must be specially trying to farmers who desire to get on with spring work. If the grass grub has not been surely drowned by tins time it must indeed be impervious to an overdose of water. The heavy rains have made stock-feeding on turnips disagreeable, but with lengthening days it is to bo hopt'd tnere will bo a. desirable change in the weather.

Football. —A match that created a good deal of interest took place on Saturday aiternoun on the Tapanui Ground, 'ihe players were selected from all the clubs affiliated to the district sub-union, and were pitted against each other as North v. South. t«cre was a good attendance ol the public, and the local brass band lent colour to the occasion by providing a. musical programme. A very good game resulted, and when time was wed advanced the .North team led by b points to ml. In a final effort, however, tiie South also put on 6 points, and the match resulted in a draw, ’ihe Waikaka contingent deserve special praise for their enthusiasm in coming so far to take part in a friendly game. Mr Connolly made an impartial referee. The proceeds of the match will be devoted to the accident insurance fund, upon which the demands have been exceptionally heavy this season. A district team has been selected to compete for a cup trophy at Roxburgh, and the game will be played there next Saturday. If the district 15 stick together they should put up a good tight. Coursing.—Some capital sport has been obtained this season amongst the hares, at Crookston a.nd on Urooksdale Estate. Coursing parties were well entertained by farmers, and what will probably be the final outing took place at Brookselalc on Saturday. Kinking.—The skating rink continues to attract a fair number of patrons, but the season is drawing to a close. J3all. —The young people of Tapanui held a very successful dance in the Town Hall last week, but were unfortunate in striking a wet night. A thoroughly enjoyable dance was indulged in, and guests were well catered for in the way of refreshment, music, and a capital floor. The Coming Fight.—There is apparently going to bo a big light on the question of national prohibition at next general election, and the Southland agent of the New Zealand Alliance for the abolition of the liquor traffic has lately been doing this district for contributions to the fighting fund. A glance at his list showed that the canvass had been a most successful one, and donations ranging from £5 downwards were received or promised in aid of the movement to “wean’' the population of tile Dominion by Act of Parliament. To residents of nolicense areas the campaign will have special interest in that it will have the object of placing city dwellers and other electorates on the same “dry” level. It is the only consolation remaining to the “moderate” to see others placed on a similar footing! And in case of a straight-out vote for national prohibition on a bare majority issue it is only reasonable to anticipate that many votes in no-license areas will go in that direction. The returns recently published show that an enormous quantity of liquor goes into prohibited districts in compliance with the law, and add to that what goes in surreptitiously and in small quantities that avoid registration, and it is plainly evident that prohibition does not prohibit to any appreciable extent, 'ihe subject, however, opens up a wide held for discussion.

TAWAXIiI. August 22.—1 n common with Dunedin and other coastal parts, we have had our share of last week’s rain, the first day’s record being 2i inches (nearly), and the total fall for the three or four days being nearly 5 indies. During that period it was water, water everywhere. Not much damage was done, except a few slips on tho railway line, and a tramway bridge across the Gatlin’s River being washed away. Lower down, however, at Houipapa, things assumed a more serious aspect, the whole of the Houipapa settlement being practically under water, save for a few higher parts where the cattle were able to gather. The road was under water for three days, and some houses were surrounded by water, making ingress and egress impossible unless by wading. Sawmilling.—This industry is rather slack just at present, but indications point to a brisker pace in the near future, as Mr Lyders and Messrs R. and B. I.atta are both putting in hauling engines in place of horses. Mishap.—Mr Harold Howes had the misfortune to have an accident to his hauling engine lately in shifting it from one bank to another. It got away on an incline, and ran of? tho line and fell over a bridge, a drop of 15ft deep, but with determined energy Mr Howes and his men got the broken parts up, sent them awav to town, and then got up the hauler, and in a week or fo had the satisfaction of having the engine at work again, apparently us good as ever. Telephone.—Our telephone has advanced a stage. The department have now pegged off the line of route, and so we should soon see tho poles being erected.

WAfMEA. August 24. —We have experienced a very mild winter, and after all the afflictions that were heaped upon farming community during the last year, it is good that it has been so. The coming season would, in ordinary times, provoke a good deal of optimism, but it is not doing so this year, at least, not to the extent that it usually does. .Farmers have learnt one lesson thoroughly, and that Is that it is wonderful the number of things that can combine

all in one season to frustrate success. Sheepmen like to have their lambs well grown before they make their minds easy about them, and as for wool—these senators in America form a source of tremendous anxiety. Dairymen have gone in for a stir© th:ng this year, and have sold the outputs of the factories at a good price, too, but still they are not jubilant and confident. Many good herds are on the market, and it is quite safe to say that the average selling price is about half of what it was this time last year, when the people had left the cheese market to chance. Some ascribe the change to tightness of money, others to Government, but I think it is mostly weather.

Maledictory.—The last to leave the district, after a residence of over 30 years, ar« Mr and Mrs 11. S. .Tones, of Pyramid, wins j arq retiring to live in St. Kilda. Mr. Jones j wjfs presented with a rug for use in lii( motor-car, Mrs. Jones with a silver tea sew vice, and Miss Jones with a handsome cameo brooch. Many complimentary? speeches were made, and musical items, refreshments, and dancing, made up a very ■ enjoyable evening. Ball. On Friday evening last the Mataura • Mounted Rifles held their annual twill in the Drill Hall. There was a record attendance. and it was a most successful affair. ftfIUOLEJIAIICH. August 23.—1 n common with the rest of I the country we experienced a fair share of i ram last week. We were singularly fortu- T nate, however, in being in no way incon* • \cnieneed by the water, every house re« maining perfectly dry. On one day a cer- -■ tain amount was to be seen in the main S street ; but this was simply due to the fact that the culverts in the neighbourhood had if become blocked, thus preventing the water I from running away. The only serious effect ■ of the constant ram was the large slip on *1 the railway lino near I linden, resulting in ■) the complete suspension of the train service for two days while the obstruction was being , V removed. I his week the weather has been .-S beautiful, ami the Plain looks all the better ; : for its recent soaking.

House-warming.—Air F. Moynihan has re* | cent I v had an up-to-date residence erected ; ; on his property at. Sutton, and to | celebrate its completion gave a danco ; on August 8. Rain threatened during tho afternoon, but the evening proved lino, suadtjl about 50 couples availed themselves of Air Moynihan’s invitation. The night was tho* I roughly enjoyed by all, and with cheers J for tlic host the dancers wended their way homewards at an early hour on Saturday $ morning. Oddfellows’ Rail. The Oddfellows’ ballon Friday, 15th hist., was entirely spoiled by tlio bad weather. This function is usually a popular one; hut this year only about 50 poop'e wore present, the drenching rain keeping dozens in choir homes.

Church Parade. —The Middlemarch Lodge of A1.LM.0.0.F., with tin' local Brass Band, held a parade‘at the Church of England on Sunday. 17th, when the seating accommoda* t-on of the building was taxed to the utmost. Suitable hymns were sung, and an appropriate sermon preached by the Rev. W, Wingfield, while Aliss Ethel Wingfield presided at the organ.

Brass Band.—We learn it is the intentfon ;; of our band to journey to Invercargill fof * tho purpose of taking part in the forth- m coming competitions in November. Tho | bandsmen are to bo congratulated upon taking such a step, and we trust they will vc- ‘ j turn successful. Tho band has lately lost a capable mom bar in the person of Mr J. | Courts, who has relinquished his position of drummer, and it is thought the vacancy is one which will not easily be filled. Strarh-Taieri School. —Miss Grace Dotting, lately relieving teacher at Bannockburn, hat been appointed to the position of junior i assistant at the school in place of Aliss West, transferred to Dunedin. Miss Rotting will probably have charge of Standards II and <; 111, and is expected to commence teaching here on September 1.

RAMFIJRLY. Augu.st 22. —The weather of the »a«t \vc«]f|| has been in keeping with other centres, 1 heavy downpours of rain; but there is a , decided improvement these last few days, I Ploughing is in full swing, but the ground V requires drying before much sowing can bo done. A few lambs have made their ap-.it poanmee, but lambing will not be general ' for a few weeks.

Departure. —At the .alter end of last month our school teacher, Mr Lake, waa appointed to Moray Place School. Prior to his departure, the friends of Mr Lake assembled at tire school ho use to bid hurt farewell. After a short programme of song, and recitations, Master Jack Pringle, on behalf of the scholars and Miss Shaw, presented Mr Lake with a suitcase as a small token of the esteem in which he was held. Mr Lake feelingly replied to the kindness of the children. VVe aro sorry to lose such a capable teacher, but our lose is Dunedin’s gain. Mr M'Lay, of Warepa, fills tho

vacancy. Territorials. During last week the mounted squadron of this district fulfilled the duties of a week’s encampment under Captain Shand’s management. This camp takes tlie place of evening parados. Judging from the enthusiasm shown by the men, they prefer the week's encampment to evening drill throughout the year. Owing to the train service being dieorgajiisod, tho camp was prolonged for two extra days. Wedding.—Last month one of our townsmen. in the person of Mr A. Smith, was married to Miss Christiansen, of Okaiawa. Prior to their departure from town n farewell social was tendered Miss Christiansen. During tho evening's entertainment Mr 0. Betts, on behalf of the residents, presented Mies Christiansen with a silver h : scuit barrel and cake dish as a token or the high esteem in which she was held. Several gentlemen spoke of her sterling qualities as a Sunday school teacher and church worker, one and all regretting losing such a valuable worker. Mr A. Smith replied on behalf of Miss Christiansen, thanking them for their valuable presents and extending a warm invitation to visit them in their new home. On their arrival home tho local footballers and friends met at Mr Smith’s residence for a social even mg. Mr R. Allison, on behalf of the footballer* and other sportsmen, presented Mr and Mr* Smith with an afternoon tea service. Several gentlemen spoke of the sterling qiiaHtie of Mr Smith as a citizen, and w sued therv long life and prosperity. Mr Smith suitably replied. Improvements.—The township still con» tinucs to flourish in the building bne. Mr T. Mitchell erecting a house, the Bank ot New Zealand with its branch office, and a small fruit and lolly shop recently opened by Mbs Lake. 'Football.—-On Saturday, 30th met., a Ran-

fur ly and Gimmerburn team play the Kaiicorai team. This match is looked forward to with interest. Negotiations are being made for the Vincent County to play Maniototo early next month. Church Matters. —At the annual meeting of the church members, hold last evening, the annual report and balance sheet, which were read and adopted, showed satisfactory progress for the past year. Special reference was made to the Ladies’ Guild for its splendid donations to the improvements to the church since its inception. A social will be held during the next month for the purpose of establishing a library in connection with the Sunday school. The superintendent, Mr M'Lcan, recognises the long-felt want of a library, and puts forth an appeal for this worthy object. Amusements. —We have been fairly well catered for in this direction these past few weeks, and the Territorials are holding a ball on the 28t.h inst., which promises to I “bo a huge success.

BIHCHWnOD. August 23.—Since the throe days’ rain last week wo have had real spring weather again, and consequently work on the farms has progressed. Roads.—Mr Rodger has boon “ hauled over the coals” for saying at his welcomehome that the Wallace County Council deserved to be blown up with dynamite in allowing such a road as the Manuka road to remain in the state in which it has been for several years; but the remark is likely to bear fruit before very long. A petition is in circulation just now asking the Government, if it is not willing to buy More’s railway, to make good the road from McKenzie’s nit down to Nightcaps. The petition will be presented to Parliament by Mr Rodger personally and several Invercargill gentlemen interested in this district.

School.—The school has closed for three weeks on account of scarlet fever being in the district. The East Birchwood School ie at a standstill. The contractor has commenced the building, but as the Education Board does not seem to lay down any specific time for the work to be done in. one can hardly 'blame the contractor if tie makes the work spread over 12 months. Just fancy ! a small country school, to sent 40 scholars, being in the hands of the carpenter from February until (by the look of things) December. Verily the , Education Board needs now blood in it. Although the new school is not being built on the Birchwood Estate, Mr Rodger has kindly consented to allow his drain plough plant 10 drain the grounds, and the residents there are truly grateful and appreciate the kindness.

Accident—Mr William Taylor’s little son mot with a nasty accident about two weeks ago. The little chap got a stick in his eye, and it was feared at first that he would lose it, ‘but we are pleased to hear that is not to be the case itn<J that ho is getting well again.

BROAD BAI. x August 23.—The weather hero has been muen the same as elsewhere. Numerous landslips have boon the result, though none of them has been on a large scale. / One near Grassy Pointy brought down a big pine tree and prevented the mail coach from reaching Dunedin, The mails wore taken on by horse, but the passengers, haying to got out in the mud and "rain while the ’bus was being turned round, made a sad and damp return home. Removals.—The school teacher. Miss Anderson, has left us for another appointment at Otepopo. The school has advanced a grade, and Is now entitled to a master, and the committee has elected Mr Walker to the position.—Mr Weir has disposed of h e store to Mr Duff, the popular purser of the Waireka, and is going to leave Broad Bay shortly for fresh fields and pastures new, and all his friends wish him belter luck than he has bar! lately. Church.— Our local church sadlv wants Tenovating. both inside and out. and efforts ire being made to hold a. sale of work In the hall near the mid of September to raise funds for ;t. Our church, though under Method st management, is practically undenominational. as often in the summer season nearly all Protestant sects are represented in the congregation, and some of our Duned'n friends who have hon-us l ore are kindly help big us n ou r '-.(forts to make the sale a success.—The Rev. Mr MT.achlan has been coniine- down overv fortnight from Ande-son’s Bay to hold a Bible and singing practice, and Ids efforts have been much appreciated. It is just about five rears ago since om- church services started, and arrangements are he-’ng made to celebrate it in some fitting fashion in November.

WAIVI ATE. August 23.—The annual mectiqg of Knox Church revealed a very healthy state of affairs. Ihe Kcv. A. S. Morrison presided, and called on the various officers to read their reports. The session clerk (Mr Smith) road the report, which showed a not gam of 11 in the membership. They regretted the loss by death of Mrs R. J. Log,in, Mrs R. L. Wilson, and Mrs T. Brown. Mr E. W. Halford' had conducted the country services for five months, and that* work was now being carried on by Mr L. M’Masters. Messrs R. J. Logan, H. E. M'Gowan, and J. E. Cameron have been added to those filling the office of ciders. Mission services were held last September by the Rev. J. Paulson, and in July by evangelists front Queensland. The Sundayschool, the P.W.M.U. (branch formed this year), the young women’s Bible class all show good work. The Sunday school has lost by removal during the year the services of Mr T. A. Russell, leader of- the Y.M.8.C.; Mrs Russell, leader of the J.8.8.C. ; Mr L. Russell, librarian; and Misses N. Kirkcaldy, L. Black, and E. Dunbar, teachers. The staff had been reinforced by Mrs Grant and Mr 11. Storey (librarian). Personal. —Mi H. MTntyre. head master of the Glenavy School, has removed to Pareora East, and his place at Glenavy has been temporarily filled by Mr M‘Sweeney.

Lccruro. —Mr C. E. Fowcrakcr. who recently left Waimatc to pursue his studios in Christchurch, recently read a paper on “Observations on New Zealand Mistletoe*-'’ before the Canterbury Philosophical Institute. Mr Foweraker’s observations were directed chiefly at the peculiarities of the parasite roots. The paper was illustrated by lantern slides, and at the conclusion Dr Cockayne addressed the meeting on the subject of parasite plants, and added that much information previously unknown to scientists was eontained in the paper. Mr Foweraker, still a young man, is to be

congratulated on the reception accorded to his paper by the institute. Rose-pruning.—A rose-pruning demonstration was given in Dr Hayes's garden by Mr A. Bailey Mansfield, Government Orchardist. A practical demonstration was given of the way to secure fine blooms and recipes given for remedies of pest diseases. Hints as to how to protect the blooms from weather were also given. The time for pruning in Now Zealand, Mr Mansfield said, was August. Votes of thanks were parsed to Mr Mansfield for his lecture, and to Dr Hayes for the use of his garden. Obituary.—A well-known figure has recently passed away at the Wainiate Hospital in the person of Mr Thomas Ronaldeon. of Waihao Downs. He wiAa native of Dollar, Scotland, and learned the engineering trade in Edinburgh, hie was a resident of Dunedin in the early seventies, and was engaged at the Hisrh School and other public buildings. In 1886 he settled m the Waimate district, and was in the employ of the late Mr J F. Douglas as carpenter for many years. His wife predeceased him by about 16 years. There were no children, but sn adopted son and daughter survive the deceased.—Mr Thomas Seddon Jackson died in Waimate recently at the ripe age of 83. A native of Manchester, Mr Jackson came to Australia over 50 years ago. and went to the Victorian goldfields. Ho worked as a shoemaker at Ballarat at the time of the Eureka stockade. Later he came to New Zealand, and was at the Gabriel’s Gully gold rush. In 1864 he came to Waimate, and entered into business. He was one of the founders of the Manchester Unity, 1.0.0. F.. and also of the Waimate Temperance Hall. Some years ago he was a member of the local School Committee. Mr Jackson is survived by a widow, four sons, and two daughters. •0 Personal.—Mr W. M. Hamilton, who has not yet returned from the Old Country, has been re-elected as representative of the South Ward of the South Canterbury Education Board.

W 41804 (Hawke's Bay). August 21.—The past week has boon what one iniglht call a “soft” one, as rain has fallen every day. This must be very beneficial, as grave fears exist that- without a good soaking the summer feed will bo scarce. Even yet the ground is very hard. Fatality.—The Ruakituri fatality has caused much talk, and at the inquest on the deceased rumours of a disagreement between driver and passenger were mentioned. An open verdict was returned. The facts, in short, are that while conveying a married couple to Ruakituri from Wairoa, the driver got his conveyance into difficulties, and, after the horses had been taken out, by some means or other the driver fell over a cliff and was killed. Harbour Works.—Mr Pulley’s contract is progressing very favourably, the work of filling in behind the close piling on the western or town side being pushed on. The question of dredging out the river inside the bar is being discussed, though the opinion is also expressed that the scour of the river when tihe contract is completed, assisted perhaps by the effects of a “drag,’ will remove the present shallow flats. Vaccination. —Owing to the apparent success in controlling the prevalent epidemic, vaccination is proceeding more _ slowly, though intermittent tumours of infection in the closer neighbourhood serve to keep the present anxiety from altogether dying out.

Spring.—The mantle of green now covering the willows, and the gorgeous display of bloom on the poaches and apricots, not only show that spring is with us, but also ■ndicate that Wairoa is rapidly putting on her most beautiful attire—and in her late spring attire Wairoa can indeed be beautiful.