SOUTH ISLAND DAIRY ASSOCIATION

Otago Witness, Issue 3193, 26 May 1915, Page 17

SOUTH ISLAND DAIRY ASSOCIATION

ANNUAL MEETING. (From Our Special Reporter.) INVERCARGILL, May 18. The annual meeting of the South Island Dairy Association of New Zealand Tvae opened at the Show Ground at Invercargill this morning. Mr K. Ross Hunter (Ldendale) occupied the chair, and the following delegates from dairy factories were present: —Central Company, Mr Barnett; lair tapu. Air J. Barnett; Edendale, Messrs W. Ward and Morris; Taieri and Peninsula, Air Bolt; Waitaki, Mr Bowman; Clandeboye, Mr H. Bacon; Aparima, Mr Officer; Awarua, Mr H. R. Wilson; Birchwood, Mr A. W. Rodger; Boggvbuni, Mr J. Keithi. Brown’s, .Mr J. M‘Callurn ; Drummond, Air T. A. Buckingham; Fairfield, Mr Timms, Freshford. Air Barron; Glcnham, Air G. Crosbio; Gorge Road, Air Mayor ; Grove Bush, Air Amos; Island. Alcssrs D. Ward and W. T Davidson; Kelso, Air Herbert; Kennington, Air Fowler; Alabel Bush, Air APDonald; Alaitland, Air J- Graham; Matanra, Mr J. Grey; Alernvale, Mr Fowle; Alilton, Mr Pouter; Alomona Air T. H. Hewitt; Morton. Alains, Air H. J. Sheat; Otautau, Air J. Lindsay; Oteramika, Mr Altller; Owaka, Air M'Kelvie; Pme Bush, Mr J. Gilkison ; Pukerau, Air Potter; Rimu. Mr E. E. Preston; Ryal Busa. AH A. W. Of ark; Seaward Downs, Mr H. AFCall, jun.; Stirling, Alcssrs Wilson and Weir; Tararoa,' Air Campbell; Te Tua, Air Robertson; Thornbury, Mr Foster; Tisbury, Air J. W. Allott: Toitois, Air Sterling : Tuatapgre, Air Arthur; Tuturau. Air Muir; Wai mumu. Air A. J. Copeland: Wairuna, Air H. E. Steel;-Whiterig, Air Smith; Winton, Mr J. T. Smith; Woodend, Air J. Eunson; Woodlands Alcssrs Schmidt and Camnbell; Woodlaw, Air J. Berk; Wright’s Bush, Mr G. Anderson; Wyndham, Messrs A. Arnott and P. Campbell. The balance sheet showed thatthe receipts amounted to £1193 15s 7d, and' the expenditure to £9Ol 13s Bd, leaving a credit balance of £292 Is lid.

In moving tho adoption of the annual report, the Chairman said he was glad that the meeting was being hold at Invercargill as there was in Southland a large proportion of the dairy factories. It was through no feeling of antagonism to Canterbury or Otago that the meeting had bean brought to Invercargill this season, but it was felt that there were so many members belonging to Southland that it was fair that the meeting should be held there occasionally. If the members in Otago and Canterbury wished to have tho meeting at any time held in Dunedin or in Christchurch they would find the Southland members willing to accede to their request. _ Last year the association was congratulating itself on a very successfuj season and on having overcome what it considered about the greatest catastrophe that had ever happened as far as it was concerned. He referred to the strike. Members little thought what was coming to spoil another season. Tho war broke out about the time when a start was being made with the selling of cheese, and doubt was felt as to the best course to pursue. Not only in New Zealand, whore we were 12,000 miles from the Home markets, was this doubt felt, but it appeared that some of the leading firms in theiHomeland were in a similar doubt. Export firms living at the very heart of the trouble could not say what was to_ be expected. It was evident that those in New Zealand could not anticipate what would happen. The latter, therefore, were wise, he thought, in taking tho prices that were offered in the south. They had not arrived at the time yet when firms would refuse to buy ahead. He believed that in the North Island some of the factories had such an enormous output that firms did not care to buy ahead, and also that firms in the north were having an exceptionally good season through having consigned. The whole point was that the Home Government instead of giving the soldiers tinned meat had decided to use frozen meat and cheese, and cheese was apparently having a good effect in making tho soldiers take such a stand as they were taking against the Kaiser’s barbarian armies. The sneaker hoped that the effect that cheese was having as a food would act as a good advertisement for it at Home, md- thereby help to increase its output in New Zealand. There were two or three matters to which he wished to refer. The Bluff Harbour Board was prepared to put up a cool store for use as a grading store at a cost of about 8s a ton to the factories, but this was of course an open question, and it was for the factories to decide. Some factories were in favour of it. and others maintained that the method hitherto employed had been ideal. A cool store, as suggested, would involve a groat deal of handling, and there would bo apt to bo a number of breakages, etc. He . believed' from correspondence _ received by the association that the Railway authorities were almost insisting on there being a grading store. A number of trucks wont down and remained on the railway, and sometimes the steamers did not come in to time, and the trucks were held up for perhaps four or five days. The Railway authorities were talking of charging demurrage, and had indeed already made a claim. It would be for tho meeting to decide whether it would allow tho grading store project to be gone on with. With regard to a dairy school for Southland, tho question had been brought up for a good many years. Anyone could -sco that it would be a good thing, providing, as it . would, a supply of dairy experts. Some asked this question: “As tho only thing about making cheese is to obtain tho flavour, would it bo worth while to go to ’all the expense of a dairy school?” However, considering that tho war was on, tho time might not bo opportune for the establishment of one. With reference to the payment for milk by the curd teit, that seemed to be an ideal way of paying for it, but this also was a matter for the meeting. Last year there had been a balance duo to the bank of £3 17s Bd. Tin’s year the debit had been turned into a credit of £292 Is lid. He had been informed that sums duo to sundry debtors had all been paid in, so that the actual credit balance was over £SOO. Tho position, therefore, was very satisfactory, and had never been ntained Moreover, £IOO that used to be a subsidy from the Government had been discontinued. Mr T. W. Foster seconded the motion. Referring to tho increase in tho insurance commissions from last season, be remarked that aaa matter of fad the commission had doubled, this allowing the*- a large number

of factories had fallen in with the idea of putting their insurances through tho association. It was a pity that more had not done so, and the sooner they did the better, for by such action insurance was effected more cheaply, and the association had the benefit of the commission.

With reference to a statement regarding outstanding subscriptions, tho Secretary stated that a number of members loft payment over till tho end of their financial year. Subscriptions were duo on June 31. Mr Schmidt suggested that tho insurance commissions should bo earmarked for a few years, when a mutual insurance scheme might b? started by the association. It was objected that it would be unfair for those factories at present not insuring through the association to participate in the benefits of the mutual scheme if it should bo started. Mr Lnmsden said that the best way to bring about tho accomplishment of the scheme was to endeavour to get all factories to insure through the association. A number of others spoke in support of Mr Schmidt’s suggestion, and tho opinion was expressed that considering the small number of fires in dairy factories, too much had to be paid for insurance. Further discussion on the matter was deferred till later.

The annual report was adopted. Some dispute arising as to tho qualifications of voters for the committee, it was resolved that all delegates with whose qualifications tho meeting was satisfied should vote on this occasion, hut that the committee should draw attention to the fact that notices regarding the appointment of delegates should bo in writing in future. The election of members of committee, in place of Messrs D. Ross Hunter and E. Hill, who did not offer themselves for reelection, was then proceeded with, Alessvs H. J. MiddJeton (Toitois), and T. A. Buckingham (Otautau) obtaining tho largest number of votes.

At 12 30 p.m. the meeting was adjourned till 10.30 a.m. to-morrow.

IMPORTANT QUESTIONS DISCUSSED. INVERCARGILL, May 19. The annual meeting of tho South Island Daily Association of Now Zealand was resumed at the Show Ground this morning at half-past 10, Mr D. Ross Hunter (Edondale) presiding. RISE IN CTIEEI3E FREIGHTS.

The Chairman said that there was an important matter to be dealt with. The Government had raised tho freights, and he thought thc.ro should be a protest. Mr A. W. Rodger (Birchwood) was prepared to move a motion.

Mr Rodger said that ho had received a telegram from a friend in tho North Island, who stated that ho had information that tho combined shipping companies were arranging to increase the height on cheese by id per lb from May 31. The North Island Dairy Association was protesting. He understood that it was not the shipping companies, but the Government, which had taken possession of the whole of the space. But, whoever was responsible, tho factories were affected in the same way. The freights were to bo increased in the middle ot me season, and the contracts would be upset in consequence. If this matter were allowed to go without some attention the factories wore going to be placed in a peculiar position. If the shipping companies wore going to idter freights and break contracts in the noddle of tho season, tho burden of the altered freight would fall on the producer. That was most unfair. Whatever freight was fixed for the season at the beginning of tho season should bo adhered to right through. A strong protest should be sent to the Government urging that the proposed increase should not be carried into effect. He would move that tho following telegram should bo sent to the Prime Minister:

We, the accredited representatives of the South Island dairy factories, being members of the South Island Dairy Association, in annual meeting assembled, having been credibly informed that the combined shipping companies propose to increase the freight on cheese by 3d per lb as from May 31, would respectfully point out: (1) Prices have been accepted and contracts made on the assurance by such companies that the rates fixed lor five years woud not bo departed from; (2) misfortune has already befallen the dairymen of New Zealand through lack of shipping facilities, brought about by the war, causing deterioration of our produce, and consequent lower market values, together with delay in receipt of proceeds. Wo therefore most emphatically protest against the proposed increase in freight, and would urge the Government to use its every endeavour to prevent such a step, at any rate, until the whole of the current season’s output has been shipped from the dominion. Wo would emphasise the fact that, if shipping companies are in future going to depart from agreements or alter the rates of freight during the currency of a season, merchants will naturally only buy on a o.i.f. basis, and thus throw unreasonable burden upon the producers. Mr 11. E. Steele (Wairuna) seconded the motion. Mr Braseh (assistant secretary of the National Dairy Association) said that, in order to remove possible misapprehension, he would like to point out that it was not the New Zealand Government that was responsible, but the Imperial Government. The latter had set up a committee in London to control the insulated space, and this committee had instructed the shipping companies to increase the freight as from May 31. He did not think it could possibly affect contracts running now, where cheese had been sold f.o.b. Those who had been importing had had increased freights sprung on thorn, but they had been passed on to the consumer. The proposed increase would not affect the factories this year. It would affect the consigning factories in the north, but not the factories in the south, where the cheese was all sold. The opinion was generally expressed that the protest should be made, and the motion, on being put, was carried unanimously. DAIRY SCHOOL FOR SOUTHLAND.

Tlio following motion, the substance of remits from the Edendale Dairy Company and the Island Dairy Factory Company, was moved by Mr W. Ward (Edendale) iir pursuance of notice That this association approves of the establishment of a dairy school for Southland, and that it be a recommendation to the South Island Dairy Association to request the Government to establish such a school.” Mr D. Ward (Island) seconded the motion. The time had arisen, he said, when there

should be a dominion dairy factory, at any rate, and they would like one for Southland. New Zealand produce did not realise as much in. the Home markets as Canadian produce, and there was nothing to show the difference between the two that caused the difference in prices. It appeared that it was the article that was wrong. The quality was not even. Whether this was a fault of management or of the supply of milk to the dairy factories was an open question. There wore dairy schools in every dairying country in. the world, but New Zealand dairymen were far removed from these, and did not get much of the information that was to be gathered there.

Air J. G. Weir (Stirling) said that the school would be a good thing if it could be obtained. But he thought that at the present time, when the war was on, it should be held over.

Air Watson said that ho thought, there should be not merely one school, but several. At least there should be one in the North Island and one in the South. It was necessary to keep on trying till a school was obtaincrl. Mr Cole said that a dairy school in the North Island would bo of no use to dairymen in the South at all, since tho conditions were different. It would be necessary to keep on. trying for three or four years before tho association would bo likely to attain its object, so the fact that the war was on at present was not a reason why the necessity for such schools should not bo brought under the notice of tho Government. If the Government said that the time was not opportune, then tho association could reply that it did not expect to obtain the school all at once.

Mr J. Morris (Edendale) said that the object of the school was to bring, the industry up to a higher level. The idea was that if they could raise the grade they would be able to compete with the foremost producers in the world. They were far behind Canada, and would have to bring the industry up to date. They must have a school if they were going to keep abreast of the times. Mr Cuddie said that the need of a dairy school had been demonstrated many years ago. What form the school should take, and where it should be. he was not prepared to say. since he did not know the views of the Government. There were many problems in the industry that might bo solved by it. The best to learn to make cheese was in a good factory, under a good man. After having practical experience the student could thmi go to a school and learn something of the theoretical side.

The motion was carried unanimously PAYMENT BY CURD TEST.

Mr Middleton (Toitoi) moved“ That the Dairy Department be asked to consider the propriety of introducing a regulation whereby it will be compulsory for dairy factories to make, payment for milk on a quality basis, as disclosed by the curd test.” Mr Middleton said that he had been extremely interested in tho discussion that had taken .place on the question of the dairy school' but he thought that many of the arguments brought forward for tile school also favoured tho motion now brought forward. They would remember that tho matter had been discussed at tho last annual conference in Dunedin, and had then been affirmed, but what was the use of passing a resolution 'bl that kind unless they intended to give effect to it. If they approved of the principle they should go further. Moreover, they needed a firm lead from the dairy division. They had ■ apparently agreed among themselves that such a test as ho proposed was advisable, but they did not tackle it. The whole trouble was that they wore all inclined to loan rather too much on the Government. It was up to them to help themselves, and not take up the attitude that the only improvement possible could come from the Government or the manufacturers. There was no wav in which they could increase the value of their produce more tiian by adopting this scheme. Everything else was paid for on quality, and why not milk? Why not start with the raw material and bring the whole of the industry up to a higher level by impressing upon the supplier who sent in inferior milk that he must improve it. Ho could not give them anv information on the question of cost, but he was of opinion that the cost would not be small. The lest could not ba made by the cheese makers, but would have to be assigned to an officer of the Government. The cost would have to be thrown on those who were sending in inferior milk. The only opposition that could bo made to the proposal would come from people i\ho were afraid that they would bo victimised’ by it The Government had done an enormous’ amount for the industry—(“ Hear, hear,”)—and he did not think it could do much more. Probably many of the suppliers were now sending in faulty milk, and they would remain in ignorance of the fact until the test was applied. Mr Steel seconded the motion, and said that it was well known that in all factories the bad suppliers took advantage of the .rood ones, .and the latter had to suffer with them. Ho was of opinion that the application of the test would improve the standard of the milk and put up the price of cheese a couple of shillings per cwt. Mr H. M'Call, jun., complained that tho scheme was too vague, and ho suggested that Mr Cuddie might throw some light on it before they voted Mr Campbell (Woodlands) expressed the opinion that they should not commit themselves to a thing they knew nothing about. He had been told that one man would be able to do three factories. At that rate the cost would be enormous, and small factories would not bo able to bear it; in fact, his impression was that the scheme was too large to be entered upon without more information before them. Mr Middleton explained that ho took it for granted that every delegate would have read Mr Cuddle’s paper on the subject, which was included in the annual report. Mr Barnett, speaking as a delegate from the north, pointed out that while in South-, land the factories wore in the happy position of dealing with all tho milk, such was not tho case with many northern butter factories, where a good deal of tho milk was separated on the farms. He thought that the curd test was an excellent thing so far as Southland was concerned, but it would uot do to apply it to tho whole of New Zealand.’ Mr Wards (Mataura Island) expressed the opinion that the needs of the case would be met if the managers stiffened their backs and used the powers they had to make tests, Mr Lumsdcn said that they were apparently agreed that tho present system was not eatisfactory. If they were to progress they would have to overcome their cantankerous conservation and take the proper steps. Mr H. M‘Caw said that this was one of

the matters that would have to bo taught in the Dairy School. Mr M'Caw, jun., raised the point that trading concerns would object to the Government dictating how they should trade. Mr Cuddic Dairy Commissioner) said that tho idea w r as only brought forward as a suggestion, and_ it was not expected that tho dairy factories would tumble over one another in taking it up. The opposition made to it that day _ was tho first he had hoard. He was. not in agreement with the idea of making it compulsory. It would not appeal to anyone, more especially the man on the land. The idea was working in tho Auckland district, where an agreement had been come to between the factories, who had undertaken to pay less for second-grade milk. In consequence of this there had been a marked improvement in the quality of the cream. The system had also been extended to the Waikato, and there was no additional cost. Ho was of opinion that if they made the test twice in every testing poriodi it would be sufficient. The department did not want to make any scare about it, but it was a fact that the flavour of the choose in New Zealand was going back. They were not saying that it was not. The fault lay in the manufacture, because a great deal of cheese was put into the second grade on account of tno manufacture. The industry was becoming very important, and they could not hope always to compote with other countries unless they were going to keep up to date. All tho factories in tho scheme in tho Auckland district were cooperative. In tho Waikato there were a number of private companies, but the latter had not signed any agreements. In reply to a question, Mr Cuddie said that an expert could probably be obtained to apply a weekly curd test to six factories, at a cost of about £240 per annum, or perhaps £220. including the cost of a motor bicvcle. He believed that factories could apply the testing principle themselves through their own men. and the department could instruct these, through its officers, what it would recommend for first and second tests.

The motion was declared lost, INSURANCE.

Mr P. Campbell (Wyndham) reintroduced the matter of insurances. Some of the companies, he said, were having unreasonable profits out of premiums paid by the factories for insurance. The premiums were still the same as they were a few years ago. All the factories should combine if they were to work under the association on the same lines. It had been said that factories did not go in under the association in the matter of insurance in many cesps because secretaries were also aigents for insurance companies, but ho was sure that secretaries would offer no serious opposition on this ground. Ho mentioned the Farmers’ Mutual Assurance, which was conducted through the Farmers Union, as an example of what the association should do. Ho moved—“ That the secretary should ask all factories not now insuring through the association to notify him when their insurances fell duo, and that the secretary should communicate with such factories a month or two before the date indicated and ask them to insure through the association.” If in 12 months from the present time there were any factories not in the association it would bo known what factories would not coma in, and a scheme could be evolved for mutual insurance. Mr IT. M'Call, jun., seconded the motion.Mr Fowler (Ivennington)' said he thought the business of the association should be transferred from the Ocean Company to the Government. , . The Secretary of the association (.Mr Scott) eaid that'the Government would not, give tho commission. Mr Fowler said he thought that if the association could show that it was handling half or three-quarters of the dairy factories’ business no office would refuse it. The State insurance was a mutual insurance—the very thing they were trying to get at. . , . Mr Scott said that all the companies had been interviewed in the first place, ana the Ocean was the only company that womd contemplate the association’s scheme Mr H. M ; Call, son., supported the motion. Mr Schmidt said he thought a reserve fund should' be accumulated out of the 20 per cent, commission obtained by tlie association, and in a few years it would be able to start a mutual insurance scheme of its own. It could accumulate £3OO a year easily, and with about £2OOO in hand it could start the scheme. . . Mr Scott said that - the association had secured the insurances of 31 factories out of 101. . . _ , . After further discussion, Mr (ampboJl withdrew his motion in favour of the following resolution, moved 1 by Mr Fisher (Otauta.ii) and seconded by Mr Campbell : “That the directors of all factories be asked to instruct their secretaries to renew all insurances with the association, and any factories declining be asked to give -reasons for their refusal.” The motion was carried. ' Mr P. Arnott (Seaward Downs) moved “ That it be a recommend it on to the executive to reserve £177 6s 4d, received from commission on insurance business passed through the association last year, for tne purpose of forming the nucleus of an insurance fund.” . ~ The motion Was seconded by Mr bcnmidt (Woodlands) and carried. COOL STORAGE AT BLUFF.

The matter of tho proposed eool store at Bluff was again brought forward, the Secretary reading letters from tho Railway Department making a claim for a sum for demurrage. This sum was alleged to be due to the department in respect of a shipment which was required to bo at Bluff on April 14. but was delayed till April 16 on account of* the non-arrival of the Kini, which was overdue owing to bad weather. Mr Scott said he had replied outlining the circumstances, and nothing more had been hear a from the department, but tho incident served to show the urgent need for cool storage at Bluff. There was undoubtedly need for a grading store, and steps should bo taken to do something. He had the greatest admiration for tho way in which the railway authorities had served the factories in Southland. Mr Ouddic said that the position was becoming very acute at Bluff The cheese could not fie graded as well as it should be, with the result that the factories were not getting the return in the form of a grade note that they should. The graders were doing their best, but they could not do the work satisfactorily under the present conditions. Southland, with 67 factories, should have a place where cheese could be graded. If a refrigerating plant was not practicable a cheaper scheme might be adopted. A concrete store with insulating w»Ua would servo tho purpose. At present

Southland was behind the times in tiifli matter. Mr D. Clark (Fairfax) moved that th« resolution passed at the last meeting should be given effect to. Mr Manson (Otautau) seconded this. The motion was ‘That a cool store be erected at Bluff, and steps be taken to push the work ahead.” Mr Buckingham said that a cool storo would save transhipment. lie did not think the extra cost of a cool storage over aa insulated building would be excessive. Mr Foster said ho had opposed the proposal last year, statin"’ that aa long as tho Railway Department handled the work well as it w r as doing the conditions wer? ideal. However, the position had ainoo altered, and ho now thought the association should advise the Harbour Board that it was prepared to go on with the matter. The Secretary said that cold air from the freezing works w r ould be used for the cool store, and the extra cost should) not bo mor<ji than £IOOO at the outside. If it were 4 question of finance with any factory, stori warrants would bo issued, which would satisfy anv banker in the diminion. Tho Harbour Board was not in the matter to make money, but for the sake of Bluff Hai> hour, and if the charges could bo reduced later when business increased he took 14 that they would be. The motion w r as carried. LECTURE BY MR SINGLETON.

During the afternoon an instructive lecture on “ How to Improve Our Dairy Herds ” was delivered by Mr W. M. Single* ton (Assistant Director of the Dairy Produce Division). This concluded the business of the meeting, which ended with votes of thanks to the chairman and executive, to the secretary, and to Mr Cuddle for the information he had given the meeting. DELEGATES ENTERTAINED. INVERCARGILL, May 20? The luncheon room beneath the A. and P. Association’s pavilion was crowded last evening, when a dinner was tendered to tho visiting delegates to the Dairy Association. Conference by the Southland factories, the A. and P. Association, the Southland League, and the. Chamber of Commerce, Mr J. Carmichael (president of tlie A, and P. Association)" presided, and about 200 guests were present, including Messrs J. A. Hanan, R. Scott, J. C. Thomson, G. J. Anderson, and A. S. Malcolm. M.P.’s, W. D. Hunt (president of the Southland League), W. Fordo (president of the Farmers’ Union), the Mayor (Mr D. M‘Farlanc), and Mr D. T. Fleming (Reform organiser). In proposing tho toast of ” The Army, tho Navy, and tho Territorials,” Mr Thomson thanked the committee for asking him to bo present, and expressed appreciation of tiia exhibition which he had seen that day. Ho paid a glowing tribute to the work of all the forces of the Empire. Referring to the Expeditionary Force, he said that many had been wounded and some killed, and ho was sure that the .first duty of Parliament when it met would be to make adequate provision for those left without a breadwinner and for those incapacitated at tho war.

In responding to tho toast of “ The Parliament cf New Zealand,” Mr Hanan said that one of the difficult questions that the country was faced with owing to tho war was the financial one. Fortunately, we had been assisted by Britain with loans. IVo had' to carry on the works and to meet liabilities and obligations in connection with, the war. There was a national debt and ft. debt of honour to bo paid to the Belgialn people.—(Applause.) There were other expenses, and all this must bo met by a war tax. He believed the feeling was unanimously in favour cf all contributing according to their means to provide tho necessary funds to keep things going. Ho took it that Parliament would go on with its usual, work, and that both sides would conduct themselves according to their respective opinions. There were the questions of increased production and land settlement, and the necessity of making provision for those who had suffered on the battlefields and their descendants. and he was sure that Parliament was mindful of its duty in this directionThe other toasts- proposed were those of "Visiting Judges,” " Local Bod«$.” and “ The Department cf Aricultlure.” In proposing the last-mentioned, Mr Hunt remarked that it was desirable that the Minister in charge of the department should not bo burdened with any other portfolio.

THE BREADSTUFFSAXI) I’RO--1)1 €ll 31A It RETS.

Friday evening. Latest London cablegram.? state that tho wheat market is quiet. The chief question now arising in the world’s wheat position appears to be tuat of the European harvest. As Europe grows as much wheat ns the whole of the rest of tho world, the decrease in the area to be harvested will be a very serious factor. Enough wheat appears to be in sight now to supply the requirements of the importing countries till the next crops come in in August; but a great crisis in wheat might take concrete shape a year hence, when tho shevtaoe in Europe becomes acute. By that tunc, it is to be hoped in all confidence, the Russian grain will be poiuing down through the Dardanelles, and that would put a different complexion upon tho matter. There are, of course, different routes by which the Russian gram could reach England and France. One is through Finland, Sweden, and Norway, at a cost of about Is a bushel. Another is via Archangel, and the third via \ ladivostock. All throe routes are likely to he used to_ some extent, this summer, but .accommodation in the matter of railway trucks, engines, wharf accommodation, and similar necessities is likely to limit such trade, whereas the Blade Sea ports are fully equipped, and accustomed to handling large quantities of gram. The Australasian states that tho arrival of the Baron Minto, the second of the Govern merit’s purchases of Argentine wheat, has enabled country millers to receive supplies of which they wore badly in need. The Strathendrick lias also arrived, with the cargo of Oregon wheat, and millers purpose blending the two together w’horever possible. No further importations, then, are likely to arrive until June._ There is very little doing in the local wheat market, and prices are practically the same as those ruling lust week. Millers have sufficient stocks of wheat purchased to keep them going, and, moreover, farmers do not appear anxious fo do business. Bakers, in a large number of instances, are carrying big stocks of flour, and they, too, are not operating to any extent. The tariff of the New Zealand Flour and Produce Agency Company is as follows: Sacks, £l7 ICs: JODlb bags, £18; 50lb bage,

£ls, 3s; 251 b bags, £lB 10s. Pollard, £9. Bran, £7 15s. o _. Oatmeal is quoted at £2O a ton for to s. Pear! barlev, £2l 10s. The oat‘market has firmed during the week, consequent on numerous inquiries from the North Island and on the fact that the Government is calling for tenners for fair-sized parcels for war purposes. Farmers appear more inclined to part wita their stocks, but quotations on trucks, country hidings, fluctuate somewhat. A Gartens are worth about 4s Id f.0.b., sacks ■weighed in. and B's jd pci bushel less Reports from the country state that the results from the thrashing are very satisfactory, and there is a feeling amongst merchants that, having regard to the - export restrictions, there should be sufficient oa.ts in the dominion to fill the demand until the next harvest. Time, however, can only decide whether this feeling is justified.

PRODUCE REPORT. The chaff market has advanced during the week. There is a keen inquiry for all prime samples, and the market is \eiy firm, esp;cially for forward business. Reports as to the potato market arc somewhat contradictory. Some merchants state that the market is a dragging one, with a tendency to a further weakness; others, again, announce an advance m prices. Aalucs for prime may be given as £4 Ids to £5 a ton. ~ , i The high prices for eggs have curtailed the demand, and the market is easier. Preserved are moving off slowly, most bakers carrv'ng big stocks. . Prices for butter remain unchanged. There is now very little milled available. Deliveries of onions are light, and values are inclined to harden. Prices range from £5 2s 6cl to £5 10s a ton for extra prime Hams were quoted at 9d to per lb. A keen inquiry ’exists ror boneless hams, y/l ioh have advanced in price. Current wholesale prices arc as follow Chaff. —Prime oaten sheaf, to £6 i.Cs; medium to good, to £5 10s (sacks extra) i Potatoes.—Prime Oamarus, £4 10s to £o (bays in); Taicri-grpwn. to £4 10s to £5; medium to good, £4 10s. Hay, £6 10s. Straw.—Oaten, £3j whoaten, £2 os. Eggs. —Fresh, Is lid; stamped, 2s; preserved, Is 4d to Is 6cl Butter.—Dairy, Is 3d per lb; milled, to Is 3d per lb; separator, in 11b packets, to Pigs.—Baconcrs, sgd per lb; porkers, sgd per lb. „, , ~ 3aeon. —Rolls (in quantities), 9jd to lOd; hams, 9d to per lb. FRUIT REPORT. Advice has been received that the Atua, from Ihe Islands to Auckland, has 200 eases of bananas on board lor transhipment to Duncd'n. This fruit should arrive about Thursday. , The Mamma is bringing 465 cases of bananas and 900 oases ol oranges from Rarotonga. This consignment will bo transhipped at Wellington and should be here on Monday. The Pa'oona brought small parcels ot pineapples, oranges, and mandarins from Sydney. . Small lots of Nelson-grown fruit fiave been coming forward, principally dessert >pplc-s. Prices run up to 8s per case. Cookers, which are chiefly arriving from Canterbury, and are in really good condition, are bringing fair rates. The output from Central Ctago is confined mostly 'to pears of late varieties. Prices rule up" to 2gd per lb. There is a strong demand for melons, which are • in short supply, probably as a result of the dry weather which has boon experienced in the North Island. Tomatoes are bringing very high prices. Consignments from Christchurch show a considerable falling off, and are beginning to bear signs of frost. Local hothouse are in strong demand, and are realising to 8d per lb. , The following are the current wholesale prices:— , Apples are in fair supply, with the exception of cooking sorts, for which an excellent demand exists. Desserts, 5s to Bs, tho latter price for Jonathan, etc.; cookers, 5s to 7s per bushel, the latter price being for Lord Wolseloys. . Lemons.—ln case of 165 fruits; Italian, 16s. Oranges.—Rarotongan repacks, 7s 6d to 8s Tomatoes. —Local hothouse, fid to 8d; Canterbury—outside, rough. Id to ] gd; medium and choice, outside, 3d to sd; Otago Central finished. Cucumbers.—Local hothouse, 2s to 3s per dozen (small). Pie melons, 5s fid to fis per cwt. Quinces, 2£d to 3id per lb; wanted. Grapes.—Local hothouse, up to Is 8d per lb; others, 7d to 9d. Vegetables are plentiful, but have slow sale. Cabbage, fid to Is 3d per dozen; sacks Is. Lettuce, 4d to fid per dozen. Cauliflowers, Is fid to 4s fid per dozen; sacks, "to 7s fid. Table carrots, 4d to fid per dozen bunches. Radishes, 4d to fid per dozen bunches. Spring onions, lid to 2£d per bundle. Green peas, lid to 2icl per lb; good demand. Brussels sprouts, Is fid to 2s per box. Celery, 4cl to fid per. bunch. Winter rhubarb, 2s to 3s fid per dozen bundles. MERCHANDISE MARKET. The Colonial Sugar Company is being rushed with orders from merchants ar.d grocers right throughout the dominion,, in anticipation of a substantial increase in prices, which, it is stated on reliable authority, will take place next month. Tho company finds it quite impossible to fill the heavy orders, and is delivering only a small portion of tho total quantities asked for by individual purchasers. Consumers, too. have also become seared, and are laying in heavy stocks from the grocers. Under date April 15 Messrs C. and E. Morton write that their stocks of herrings in tomato sauce, kippered herrings, and fresh herrings are exhausted, and that tfc-sy can only put up their new' pack, due JunoJuly, at opening prices, subject pack. Lard is now quoted at lid per lb. Lentils are in very short supply. Owing to the demands or. tho market to fill orders for tho troopships, there is a little shortage in the supply of both bag and layer fig*. , . , A special agency hue—-white Gotten a malt vinegar—will be again available on the arrival of the Marnari. The local market is very short of Foster Clark’s custards—another special agency fine. Further supplies are on board the Paparoa, due to arrive next month. Sago is now quoted at 19s a owt and tam'oea at 20s. River Plate canary seed is quoted at 30s Eer cwt, c.i.f.. May shipments, from original orbs. The latest quotation will make -the cost

of American wire nails, landed here, about 13s a cwt. Large orders for steel plates have been sent to America, owing so the difficulty of getting supples from England. These plates will have to bear an increased cost —differential duty, etc.

Tea. —The cable news from Golomoo yesterday (says the Meibom no Argus of May 13) was rather a surprise to some sections of the trade, as, despite inferior quality, the Colombo market was fully firm. It was-con fidontly expected that, .with the British Budget over, there would ho a decline of jd or Id per lb in Colombo, and the fact that this did not take place, even in face of the heavy withdrawals of tea from Lnglish bonded stores, speaks well for the inherent stability of the world’s tea position. If the market at the sale in Colombo next week can be as well sustained the crisis will be over, and a reign of very high prices assured. The quality of the tea being offered in Colombo during the next throe or four weeks will be the poorest of the whole year, and it has never happened before that prices are maintained during this period. Some cable messages, in comparing the sale on Tuesday with that of last week, state that brokers were a little dearer, and leaf teas fractionally -easier. Business has been done in Melbourne this week, sales probably aggregating 2000 packages. There has been a strong demand from Now Zealand. Public offerings in Colombo to April 14 were 28.289,1401 b, against 23.764,6541 bto April 7 last year. Shipments-to Australia and New Zealand to April 14 wore about 6,280,4001 b, against 7.750.0001 b last year. The London Daily Chronicle of March 25 publishes an interesting article on the London tea market, shelving that the tea (jaken out of bond in the first 15 working days of March totalled no less than ' 25.179.5881 b. as compared with 14.076,8521 b for the first 14 working davs of the previous March. The article refers to the consistently large despatch of tea at fixed periods for troops on active service; and the position of the sold er’s wife who is drawing a separation allowance with clockwork regularity makes for increased purchases of tea for her home. In dealing with the mistiken economy of purchasing cheap tea. especially in view of the fact that the low grades are the ones winch have advanced in price moat, it is pointed out that scientific data support the judgment of tea experts in distinguishing fine teas from .the common types, and in fixing their value and character: and. moreover, it has been scientificially demonstrated that the finer teas supply better ■ value, because of what they contain of the actual essentials of tea in good proportions compared with cheaper sorts.

COMMERCIAL CABLEGRAMS. LONDON, May 18. Wheat: Market neglected, and prices unchanged. Copper; Spot, £77 10s to £77 15s; three months, £7B 10s to £7B 15s; electrolytic, £B7 10s to £BB ICs. Tin, £162 10s to £163. Spelter, £63 to £75. Silver, 23 9T6d. (Received May 20, at 1.30 a.m.) Wheat. —Visible supplies, 32,415,000 quarters. Chicago May options, 156 to 153 i cents: July options, 129 i to 126| cents. May 19. Copper: Spot, £75 5s to £75 10s; three months, £76 5s to £76 10s; electrolytic, £S6 10s to £B7 10s. Tin, £l6O 15s to £l6l 15s. Lead, £2O 5s to £2O 10s. Spelter, £7O to £75. Silver, 23^d. Wheat is qu'et. Lineeod oil, £2B. Turpentine, E4s 6d. At the tallow sales 2864 casks were offered and 863 sold. Mutton —fine, 38s; medium, 33s 6d. Beef —fine, 375; medium, 325. May 20. The Bank of England returns show that the stock of gold coin and bullion is £60,410,000; reserve, £45,155,000; proportion of. reserve to liabilities, 20.50; notes in circulation, £24,032,000; public deposits, £130,382,000; other deposits, £94,625,000; Government securities, £51,043,000; other securities, £145,534,000. Short loans, If per cent.; three months’ bills, 2 13-16 per cent. Following are the prices for Government stocks as compared with those ruling

* Early currency, t 1525-11149 currency. J 1920-30 currency. Wheat : Dull; 3d to 5d easier. Australian shipments'—February 65s 9d, March 665. Flour : Dull and unchanged. Oats : Flat. Bahia Blanca, May-June shipment, 295. Teas : Firm. New Zealand blue, 60s to 80s. Beans : Quiet and unchanged. Butter ; Very Ann. Supplies are short, and prices unchanged. Cheese : Buoyant, little available. New Zealand, 97s to 98s. At Bradford there is strong inquiry for all sorts of wool. Sixty-fours, 33£d; super 60’s, 33d; common 60’s. 32d ; 56’s, 3 Old; 50's, 29Ad; 45's, 27d; 40’s, 25d. May 21. Copper.—Spot, £75 5s to £75 10s; three months, £76 os to £76 10s. Tin. —Cash, £162 5s to £162 15s; throe months, £l6l 15s to £162 ss. Spelter, £73 to £69. May 22. Wheat: Steady. Chicago--May-July options 126 to 128-g cents; September options, IZOA to 122 g cents. Juto; May-Juno. £l9 10s. Hemp: Juno-August, £33. Rubber: Para, 2s 7 id; plantation, 2s 4|d; smoked, 2a 4Jd.

Copra: May-June, £22 17s 6d. Wheat. —Quiet. Amount afloat; United Kingdom, 2.770,000 quarters; Continent, 4,305.000 quarters;" Atlantic shipment, 733,000 quarters; Pacific, 20,000 quarters. Tot?.!: Eur-ji' l , 1,655.000 quarters; India. 167,000 quarters; Argentine, 533,000 quarters. FROZEN MEAT MARKET. LONDON, May 22. The following are the latest quotations for all classes of meat, including ex-store sheep. In the case of those not quoted the

Ollier . meats are unchanged. * None offering, llabbits are tending to an easier market.

BUITEIt ni SYDNEY. SYDNEY, May 18. A deputation of Northern Rivers farmers and dairymen asked Mr Hall (Minister of Agriculture) to increase the price of butter to Is 8d per lb. They stated that the introduction of artificial fixed prices meant crushing out the tenant farmers, whose alternative to becoming penniless and homeless was to cross the border into Queensland or elsewhere. People in Sydney were living in luxury, while the farmers were suffering many hardships and losses. They asked to be permitted free trade with the other States. Mr Hall, in promising to place the situation before the Commodities Commission, said he would be no party to allowing an industry to be worked at a loss or those engaged in it to be driven out. DUNEDIN MARKETS. FARM AND DAIRY PRODUCE. Messrs M'llroy Bros, (successors to Irvine and Stevenson), George street, report paying for produce during the week ending the 25th inst., as follows: Fresh i/i di>z 1 Srpirator Butter, 1/2lb bait nutter; n a buyinp 1 Honey (bulk), :ifd lb WHOLESALE PRODUCE REPORTS/ J. Lindsay and Co., Princes street south, report under ’ date the 25th inst.; Wheat per bushel. Oaten cnaff Best milling ... I/O Prime l.lf/O Fowls’ ... ... 6/.U Good’.., ... 12P/P Milling oats ... 4 0 Inferior (0/9-95/0 Feed oits.. ... 8/9 Ryegrass and clover Malt barley ... <VO hay 130/0 Feed barley ... 5/ti Cane barley ... <V 1 Straw; Maize ... ... C/t3 Wheaten ... 55/0 per ton. \ Oaten (0/0 Hour, in 200’s ... 35(7 ’ Rolled bacon ... llld Flour, in 50’s ~.305/0 Side bacon ... 9d bollard IfcO/O Smoked hams ... lOd bran 155/0 Cheese ... ...B<l—9d Oatmeal, in 25’s 400/0 Salt butter 9d —lOd Pearl barley .. 410/0 (according to quality) Kpgn, fresh ... 2/2 Onions.— Canterbury, £5 per ton. Chaff. —This market is firm, and prices are good. We would be pleased to receive samples or have the offer of any you may have for sale. Prime, 130 s; medium, from 90s to 110 s per ton. Potatoes. —Best lots are saleable at up to £5 per ton. Straw Chaff.—Wheaten, 62s 6d; oaten, 70s. HIGH COMMISSIONER’S REPORT. WELLINGTON, May 24. The High Commissioner cabled on May 22 (Note: The quotations, unless otherwise specified, are the average market prices on spot): The meat market is firm, owing to reduced supplies, together with the very large demand for the Government. During the week higher prices have been agreed to, after consultation between the Board of Trade and the meat especially in the case of home-grown and chilled beef. Mutton. —Canterbury, 6|d for best quality light-weight; medium weights, 6gd; North Island, 6|d for best quality, ordinary quality 6^d; ewes, 5 13T6d. Lamb. —Canterbury, 8d for all weights; other than Canterbury, 7£d; second grade, 7|d. Beef.—Now Zealand beef: Not quoted officially, for reasons already given on May 15. There was only a small quantity selling at: Hinds, 7gd; fores, 6^d; chilled hinds, 9^d; fores, Igd. Butter. —Market firm, owing to reduced supplies. Danish (quiet), 154 sto 1565; New Zealand (demand for spot good at higher prices), 144 sto 1465: Australian, 138 s to 140 s; Irish creamery (supplies increasing, in fair demand), 140 b to 144 a; Siberian, none offering; Argentine (in good demand), 138 s to 140 s. Cheese. —Market very firm, and the supply falls short of the demand. The Canadian supplies are nearly exhausted, and prices are nominal. Last season’s make—white 98s, coloured 975. The New Zealand market advanced during the week and closed firm at higher prices, with a brisk demand for white and coloured at 88a to 945, according to quality and size. Hemp. —Market steadier and prices firmer. New Zealand, good fair grade, £33; fair, £3l; fair current Manila, £39 10s;_ MayJuly shipment Now Zealand, good fair, £32 10s; fair, £3O 12s; Manila, £39. The output from Manila for the week was 18,000 bales.

Hons. —There has been no material change in Iho market. English, 100 sto 755; Californian, 95s to 65.?. Wheat. —Market quiet. Canadian, on passage, 675; May .July shipment, 64s 3d; American, • Ju.y-August. shipment, 545; Argentine, on passage, 63c. Oats.—Market very dull. Argentine, on spot, 23s 6d; May-Juno shipment, 295.' SOUTHLAND MARKETS. (FBU.il Unit PV.-N -‘JUKHASi UN or.-ST.) IN V DR'CARGILL, May 22. The oat market is linn, alia prices nave advanced la per bushel during the week, inercti-iiUS now quoljlig Os 4a on trucks. There has been a rot oi inquiry to till orders lor the Now Zealand uoverximeut, ana also ior the Australian Deicnce Department. Some oats have turned out badly, as tiiey have arrived solt and out oi condition. It would be tar better lor growers who have gram of this description to leave it in the stack lor a mouth or two, as the sending of suit cats to store can only end disastrously for them. There, lias been a good demand for chaff, and £5 5s on trucks is being Ireeiy offered lor prime oaten quality. There is also a good demand lor oaten-straw chaff, which is bringing £2 10a on trucks. Potatoes are still quiet, and sales are difficult to effect; but moderate purchases have btjon made on the basis of £3 15s to £3 17s 6d on trucks, sacks in. There is very little doing in ryegraen. There is no outlet at present for machinodrossed seed in Australia, but it is expected that ihere will be a very good demand throughout • the ‘South Island in the spring. Stocks appear to be adequate lor requirements, but, so far as can be seen, there will not be any excess. There is very little seed left in growers’ hands. There is a strong inquiry for linseed, but stocks appear to be a negligible quantity in Southland. There is vary little doing in hemp, which is worth about £23 on trucks for fair, and about £25 for good fair on trucks. OAMARU MARKETS. (Fbqij Oua Own Correspondent.) OAMARU, May 22. Business continues slow in this market. Wheat is firmer, with very little offering, and not much present demand. Some smail lots changed hands at country stations during the week at 6s lOd net for velvet, and 6s -Sd net for red chaff. Other varieties are worth from 6s 6d to 6s £d net, at country stations, according to sample and railway distance. Consequent upon the advance in price in Southland, and the diminished offers from that direction, oats have firmed in this market. There are practically none offering, and quotations are from 3s lOd to 3s lid for good heavy A grade Gartons, and from -'3s 8d to 3s 9d for B grade. A few sales of oateneheaf chaff are reported at £5 10s net at country stations. A little business has also been done in oat straw chaff at £2 10s; and wheat straw chaff at £2 ss, both not at country stations. Few potatoes are offering, and there is only a small demand at present. Business on a very modest scale has been done at Prom £3 15s t ! o £4 net on trucks, the top price being given for .prime lots, with short railage distance. " „ GRAIN AND PRODUCE REPORTS. Messrs Dalgety arul Co. report as follows: —We held our* weekly sale of grain and produce at our stores on Monday, when values ruled as under:—Oats: During the past week there has been more activity in the market. Shippers and merchants have all been operating more freely, and values have firmed. Prime milling, 3s 10gd to 4s; good to best feed, 3s 9d to 3s lOd per bushel (sacks extra) Wheat: Very little business is passing in milling wheat. Millers all have good stocks on hand, and are hot operating to any extent. Fowl wheat is offering more freely, and meets with a moderate demand at quotations. Prime milling velvet (nominally), os lOd; Tuscan and red wheats, 6s 8d; fowl wheat, 6s to 6s 7d per bushel (sacks extra). Potatoes: Consignments have been coming forward freely. With increased supplies sales .are not so readily effected, the demand being confined practically to local consumers. Choice, well-graded samples have been meeting with a fair demand, and are saleable at quotations. Best tables, £4 10s to £4 15s; medium to good, £4 to £4 7s 6d per ton (sacks in). Chaff: The market remains firm. All consignments of good, heavy oaten sheaf are ifiecting with an excellent demand, and consignments are readily cleared on arrival. There haß also been a keen demand for both oaten and wheaten straw chaff, and large quantities have been placed. Choice lines, £6 10s to £6 15s; good white oaten sheaf, £6 to £6 7s fid: medium to good, £5 10s to £6 per ton (sacks extra)

Messrs Donald Reid and Co. report: — Wo held onr 'weekly sale of grain and produce on Monday, when values ruled as under:—Oats: There is an improved demand for all good to prime oats at prices which show a decided adA’ance on late quotations. Choice seed lots are also strongly inquired for. Prime milling, 3s 10gd to 4s; good to best food, 3s 9d to 3s lOd; inferior to medium, 3s 6cl to 3s 8d per bushel (sacks extra). Wheat: The market is unchanged. A few choice lots of milling AA r heat are being taken by millers, but beyond those there is little business to report. Fowl wheat is offering freely and meets moderate demand. Prime milling A'elvot, 6s lOd to 6s lid; Tuscan, etc., 5s 8d to 6s 9d; best whole fowl wheat, 6s 6d to 6s 8d ; medium, 6s to 6s 4d per bushel (sacks extra). Potatoes: The market is avoll supplied, bnd it is difficult to effect sales at late values. Shippers are not operating to any extent, and local demand is barely sufficient to absorb the quantity coming foiuvard. Best table potatoes, £4 12s 6d to £4 15s; others,' £4 to £4 10s per ton (sacks included). Chaff: All sorts meet with good demand at an advance on late Arabics. Prime oaten sheaf is readily saleable on arrival, and considerable quantities of this class and of both oaten and wheaten strarv chaff have been placed at satisfactory prices on trucks at country stations. Best oaten sheaf, £6 5s to £5 7s 6d; choice, to £6 15s; medium to good. £5 10s to £6; oaten straw chaff, £3 5s to £3 10s; wheaten, £2 10s to £3 5s per ton (sacks extra). HIDE SALES. MELBOURNE, May 20. At the hide sales to-day there were moderate supplies. Competition Avas active, and prices were very firm. Messrs Waters, Ritchie, and 00. report as folloAvs:— We held our usual fortnightly sale of hides at our stores. Crawford street, yesterday morning, when there waa a good

attendance of buyers. Competition v.'as keen for all descriptions, and some excellent prices wore obtained, as compared with the previous sale. Prices for cows ruled from par to gd per lb higher, while ox showed an advance of id to §cl per lb. Ihe catalogue consisted of 638 hides and 452 yearling and calfskins—a total of 1150. We quote:-—(Jx: Extra, 10|d to lid ; stout heavy, 10id to 10|d; heavy, 1-Od to lOgd; medium. 9id to lOd; light, B£d to 9d. Cow: Extra stout, to £‘4d; heavy and medium, Sid to B|d; light, B<,d to Sid; damaged and bad-conditioned ox and cow, from 6d to old; bull and stag, 5d to bid. Calfskins, 10£d to 10id for best; medium, 9id to lOd; damaged and inferior, 3jd to 8d per lb. CLEARING SALE. Messrs Todd Bros, and Co. report having held a very successful clearing sale at Bcaumontyon account of Mr James Bonnot on the 15th hist., when Mr Ecnnet offered the whole of his live and dead stock. The following are some of the prices realised : One hundred and seventy-seven four, six, and eight-tooth ewes at 16s Id, 70 twotooth ewes at 16s, 112 wethers at 17s 2d, 53 owes at 15s, 20 lambs at 10s, 106 lambs at 12s, 48 cull ewes at 7s 3d, 10 rams at 9s. Implements, etc., and Sundries brought full market rates. SALE OF A RAM. Messrs Dalgoty and Co. report having sold, on behalt of the trustees in the estate of the late Mr John Douglas, Mount Royal Estate, Palmerston, the Border Leicester ram Smith’s Brilliant. This ram is by imported blood on both sides, as will be seen by the under-mentioned pedigree: —Sire, Pithvie Brilliant, 1684 (imported); flam, K 106 (imported), 8.L., 126; sire of dam, Standard Bearer, 1950; sire of g.-dam, Flashlight, 1534. Pithvie Brilliant was the - champion ram' of Scotland for two years in succession, being first and champion ram from Inverness to Peebles as a two-shcar, securing Tweeddale gold medal and B.L. Society’s champion prize, and securing the supremo championship in Edinburgh as a three-shear and the championship at Lincoln Royal Show. The buyer is Mr John Wilson, of Lauder, and the price was a very satisfactory one. CLEARING SALE AT WAITATL Messrs Stronach, Morris, and Co. report having held a successful clearing sale on account of Messrs Clarke and Cowan at Waitati. Tho attendance was only medium, but meet of the people went there with the intention of purchasing, the result being that everything offered brought extremely good prices considering the shortness of feed. Cows in milk and close to profit sold especially well. The following are a few of the prices obtained: -r-Cows in profit, 8 head at from £ll 2s 6d to £8 ss; July calvere, 24 at from £lO 5s to £4 17s 6d; spring cal vers, £8 2s 6d to £4 10s; heiferg in milk, to £9 17s 6d; one purebred Ayrshire bull, at £l3 7s 6d; yearlings and two-year-olds, at from £4 to £2 16s, OTAGO FARMERS’ HORSE BAZAAR. The Otago Farmers’ Co-operative Association of Now Zealand (Ltd.) report:—We held our weekly horse sale in our bazaar on Saturday, when wo offered to a largo attendance of farmers, town carriers, con-' tractors, etc., an entry of 55 horses. The centre of attraction was a consignment of really good draught mares and geldings from Mr James Wallace, Clinton. Although not done up for sale in any way, they were in good fettle. Bidding for these was brisk, and a clearance was effected at highly satisfactory prices. Other country lots came from Messrs Roes Bros. (Herbert), Mr John Diak (Waikouaiti), Mr John Muir (Clinton), and various clients from the districts surrounding Dunedin. The Taiori and Balclutha vendors had come to tho market prepared to sell, and all the country consignments changed hands at satisfactory prices. There is still a good demand for big draught geldings fit for shaft and lorry work. Aged horses and hackneys are hard to place, even at very reduced prices. Wo quote:—Good young draught marcs, £23 to £os; superior young draught geldings, fit _ for shaft or lorry” work, £3O to £3B; ordinary draught mares and geldings, £2O to £25; aged draughts, to £ls; good, upstanding vannera, at from £lB to £25; ordinary spring-carters, at from £ls to £2O: upstanding buggy, mares and geldings, £ll to £2O; hacks and ponies, £5 to £l2.

a week ago: — Victorian 4’s May 13. 98 J May 20. 90 J Victorian S.V’s * ... ... ... 83;} S3*. Victorian Si’s ... Old 91* Victorian Si’s t ... 76* — New South Wales 4’s ... ... 97 96 i New South Wales 3i’s ... 97* 97“ New South Wales 3 4’s} ... 83* 83} New South V ales 3’s ... 80S 80* Queensland 4’s ... 98“ OS 15-16 Queensland Si's ... 02i 02* Queensland 3’s 741 . 74-J South Australian 3A’s ... 85* — South Australian 3’s ... ... 70 — New Zealand 4i’s 96 — New Zealand 4’s — New Zealand 34’s ... 84} cxl New Zealand 3’s ... 76 — Tasmanian Si’s ... 851 853 Tasmanian 3’s ... 76 — West Australian 34’s ... 87* 82 West Australian 3’s ... 82*

price is unchanged: May 15. May I'd. d. a. Canterbury mutton. light ... —* — Canterbury mutton, medium ... — Canterbury mutton, heavy ... — Southland mutton — — N.l. mutton, best brands, 66-64ib — , 6 ! N.l. mutton, ordinary, 56-641b N.Z, ewes ... z 5 111-16 Australian mutton, light ... 5 9-ia Australian mutton, medium ... — — Australian mutton, heavy ... ... 5 9-16 5 13-1C Australian ewes ... 6 11-16 River Plate mutton, light, 40-551b — 6 River Plate mutton, heavy, 5o-7t’lb — 6 13-16 River Plate ewes ... — — Canterbury lamb, light ... 713-16 7 15-16 Canterbury lumb, second quality — 7 7-16 Canterbury lamb, medium — 7 15-16 Caulerbury lamb, heavy .M — 7 15-16 North Island lumb, selected 7 13-16 3 North island lamb, ordinary ... n n Southland lamb, (selected ... — — Southland lamb, ordinary ... — — Australian lamb, best brands ... — 7£ Austra.iuu lamb, fair quality ... — 7^ Australian lumb, interior ... — 7 a River Plate lamb, first quality ... — 7$ River Plate iamb, second quality — 7^ New Zealand heel, loros ... * — New Zealand beel, hinds ... * — Australian beel, lores * — Aust than beel, hinds ... * — U. Plate beel, chilled lores ... n R. Plate beel,’chided binds 9* R Plate beel, frozen lores ... — li. Plata beel, Irozen hinds — — Uruguay frozen lores ... — — Uruguay Jrozen hinds ... — — Uruguay chilled lores ... — — Uruguay chilled hinds ... — — S. American lambs, first quality — — S. Amci ican lambs, second quality — —