ASHBURTON AGRICULTURAL AND PASTORAL ASSOCIATION SHOW.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume V, Issue 1384, 20 November 1884, Page 2

ASHBURTON AGRICULTURAL AND PASTORAL ASSOCIATION SHOW.

No day in the year is looked forward

;o with so much interest by Ashburionites

as that on which the local Agricultural and Pastoral Society hold their annual

Show, and it goes without saying that not a little disappointment was felt yesterday when the early morning looked so gloomy. About ten o’clock, however, the sun showed his face, and the weather looked more promising, but at no n one of those drizzling rains which the Scotch euphemistically term a “mist” set in, making matters by no means pleasant for the 1 seekers of enjoyment. But an agricultural population, such as that residing in this district is not easily daunted, and large numbers wended their way during the afternoon to the grounds for the purpose of seeing what was to be seen. We have already published figures to show that this year the actual number of entries is slightly below those of last year, but this is to be accounted for by the abolition of certain classes, which the Society have determined to omit from the catalogue, viz, the poultry and greyhound divisions. Indeed, in all the important claases there I was an increase, showing that the Show | has lost none of its popularity, and that j Ashburton is keeping pace with other communities in the colony. The judges of the stock were on the ground betimes yesterday, and lost no time in proceeding with their work, all the officers of the Association working with a will to assist them, while the secretary, Mr Secretan, was indefatigable in his exertions to make things go successfully. The brass band enlivened proceedings during the day by performing several selections of music with their customary ability, and the youngsters on the ground »ere provided with amusement in the shape of a merry-go-round. The luncheon and liquor booths were under the superintendence of Mrs Butler, with whose 1 admirable catering no fault could be found. Taken as a whole the show was, so far as the quality of the exhibits was concerned, an undoubted success, the horses being especially admired, being perhaps the most striking feature of the day. The sheep and cattle were excellent in their respect ve classes, and we believe the show of implements was the largest and most complete ever seen on the same ground. The Association is to be congratulated on the success of their seventh annual Show, the only drawback to which was the bad weather, which was, of course, beyond human control. The following is a detailed account of the various classes : SHEEP.

Although the entry in this section was not a large one the quality was quite up to the standard of previous years, and the various exhibits were, throughout the day, critically examined by a number of interested breeders and other?. In the class for merino rams of any age, Mr Ljttelton was the only exhibitor, and won first with his well-known champion winner at Timaru and Christchurch. The second prize winner had also obtained honors at Timaru, and both sheep were well framed animals, with wool of good length and quality. Mr Lyttelton also secured the honors in the classes for merino rams under 18 months, and the several classes for ewes, with sheep of a qualby which has placed this gentleman amongst our foremost breeders. Mr Bonifant secured Messrs Matson, Cox and Go’s special prize for the best five merino ewes with crossbred lambs at foot, with a very nice pen with lambs by a Leicester rm. The President’s prize of L 6 5s for the best Lincoln ram above 18 months was won by Messrs Dudley and Northey’s Champion, a grand sheep bred by Mr Pashby of Kaiapoi, which occupied a similar position last year. Mr L. White furnished .the second prizewinner, a sheep ot great frame and well woolled. In the class for Lincoln rams under 18 months Messrs Dudley and Northey were again to the lore, securing both first and second awards with remarkably fine specimens, of their own breeding. the same axhibitors won the first prizes in all the ewe classes with really excellent sheep, and Mr L. White had the second award in the class for ewes under 18 months to a largeframed symmetrical sheep. Mr J. Ronifant, of Wakanui, secured all the first honors in Leicesters, with sheep which must establish a favorable reputation for their owner as a breeder of these longwools. Mr Andrew Dawson was the only exhibitor in the classes for 'outhdown rams, and was awarded the full honors. In Southdown ewes above 18 months Mr Wilkin took first and second with two compact and profitably fleeced representatives Mr Dawson’s winner in the class for ewes under 18 month* was slightly slaok in wool, but well deserved the distinction. Mr Wilkin’s pens of three Southdown ewes won, Mr Dawson’s exhibit being second in the class for ewes above 18 months. Messrs Dudley and Northey’a Hampshire Downs attracted much favjrablo a tention, the Christchurch champion and several of his stock being sheep of remarkable quality. In. the class for ewes above 18 months these well-known breeders exhibited an imported owe with her three lambs dropped this season, each of the progeny promising to make superior sheep. The same ewe gave birth to four lambs last season, and has already won many honors in the show pen. Mr John Grigg’s Shropshire Downs were also generally admired, and have no doubt been selected by the pioneer of the Canterbury frozen meat trade with an eye to the English market. In fat sheep Mr H. T. Smith’s pen won Messrs Matson Cox and Go's special prize for the beat five fat crossbred wethers suitable for butchers’ purposes. Mr L. White's fat merinos, a draft from the flock which has recently supplied some equally remarbable sheep to the Addington weekly sales, were quite one of the features of the show. Mr Smith also secured theN.Z. L. and , M. A. Company’s special prize for the best ten crossbred sheep suitable for the frozen meat trade, with a well fattened pen of | wethers. ;

SHEEP. Merino. Judges: Messrs Waiter McFarlane, Henry Ford, and James Little. Marshal in attendance : Mr D. M‘Lean. For the best ram above 18 months old— W. Lyttelton, 1 and 2. For the best ram under 18 months old— W; Lyttelton, 1 and 2. For the best ewe' above 18 months old— W. Lyttelton, 1 and 2. For the best ewe under 18 months old— W. Lyttelton, 1 and 2. For the best three |ewcs above 18 months old, with lambs at foot—W. Lyttelton, 1, For the best three ewes under 18 months old —W. Lyttelton, 1 and 2. Matson, Cox, and Co.’s prize of £2 2s for the best five merino ewes, with crossbred lambs at foot, ewes and lambs to be taken into consideration—J. Bonifant. Lincoln. Judges : Messrs W. Grant, H. J. Hall, and ,C. y/ithell. Marshals in attendance : D. Oliver and 11. Bops. The President’s (t>. Cameron) ptLc of £5 Os for the best Lincoln rath above 18 moirtjis j old—Dudley and Northey, 1; L. White, 2. '' For the best ram under 18 months old— Dudley and Northey, 1 and 2. For the best ewe above 18 months old— Dudley and Northey, 1 and 2. For the best ewe under 18 months old— Dudley and Northey, 1 • L. White, 2. Leicester. ■ Judges : Messrs W. Grant, H. J. Hall and C, Withell. Marshals in attendance : Messrs D. 01 liver and H. Boss. For tho best ram above 18 months old—-J. Bonifant, 1 and 2. For the best ram under JLB months old—J. Bonifant, 1 and 2. For the best ewe above 18 months old—J. Bonifant, 1; E. Wilkin, 2. For the best ewe under 18 months old—J. Bonifant, 1,

For the best three ewes above 18 months old, with lambs at foot—J. Bonifant, 1; E. Wilkin, 2, Down Breed. Judges: Messrs W. Grant, H. J. Hall and C. Withell. Marshals in attendance: Messrs D. Olliyer and H. Boss. For tlie best Southdown Bam above 18 months old—Andrew Dawson, 1 and 2. For the best Southdown ram under 18 months old—Andrew Dawson, 1 and 2. For the best Southdown ewe above 18 months old—B. Wilkin, 1 and 2. For the best Southdown ewe under 18 months old—A. Dawson, 1; E. Wilkin, 2. i For the best three Southdown ewes above 18 months old—B. Wilkin, 1; A. Dawson, 2. For the best three Southdown ewes under 18 months old—E. Wilkin. For the best Hampshire ram above 18 months old—Dudley and Nor they, 1 and 2. For the best Hampshire and Shropshire ram under 18 months old—J. Grigg (Shropshire), 1 and 2. For the best Hampshire or Shropshire ewe above 18 months old—Dudley and Northey (Hampshire), 1 and 2. For the best Hampshire or Shropshire ewe under 18 months old—Dudley and Northey (Hampshire), 1; John Grigg (Shropshire), 1. For the best three Hampshire or Shropshire ewes above 18 months old, with lambs at foot—Dudley and Northey (Hampshire). For the best three Hampshire or Shropshire ewes under 18 months old—Dudley and Northey (Hampshire). Fat Sheep, Fat sheep must be shorn within thirty-one days previous to the exhibition. To be ] i judged according to quality and weight combined. Judges—Messrs W. Grant, H. J. Hall, and C. Withell. Marshals in attendance: Messrs D. Oliver and H. Boss. Matson, Cox and Co.’s prize of £1 lls 6d for the best five fat crossbred wethers of any age, suitable for butcher’s purpose—Hay T. Smith. For the best five merino wethers —L. White. The N.Z. Loan and Mercantile Agency Company’s prize of £3 3s for the best ten crossbred sheep, suitable for the frozen meat trade—Hay T. Smith.

CATTLE. The Ashburton land has been celebrated for years for its cattle-raising capacity. he Lougbeach estate has for a lengthened period sent its contingent of beeves regularly to the West Coast, and many a goodly herd has passed up the river bed on its overland route to the Coast. Many a digger has had to wait for a steak until the Grigg cattle made their appearance from the distant swamps, and the juicy fry all the sweeter when it did arrive for the exercise of prbience. With a colonial name for cattle —a name made still more famous since the institution of the Cheese Factory at Flemington, that fame still further spread by the inauguration of the County Council’s glorious scheme of irrigation, which now makes grazing possible where grass was not —it would be saying little indeed for the district if its display of cattle was a poor one at the annual Show of the County. No man who walked through the mazes of the cattle yards yesterday had any room to speak disparagingly of the exhibits, for every animal shown was worthy of the place that owned it, and well upheld the county's reputation. Bat a larger show of cattle would have been acceptable, and here the casual observer may blame the local farmer. But times have not been so prosperous recently as we have seen them, and but few farmers can spare either the time, the expense, or the animals for preparation with show condition in view. Still, there was a fair muster as regards numbers, but the quality was specially gratifying, For shorthorns, Messrs Uudley and Northey entered the only two-year-old, for which a first prize was given. Ho was a little light if anything, but symmetrical to a point, and a superb handler- altogether a bull likely to be heard of in the future. Mr >tringfellow " showed “ Victor,” a yearling bred by Mr John Grigg. “ Victor ” is by an Oxford Duke of Cambridge bull out of Dahlia 11, and well bears up the Longbeach name being generally a good shorthorn, carrying about with him ample evidence of good breeding, and all the characteristics of a useful bull. The cows of this breed were all good, and though Messrs Dudley and Northey had both first and second in the any age class the highly commended in the same list, had she been shown a fortnight earlier or later would have been a formidable compelitor for public favor. She only calved tvo days ago, but Mr R. Macdonald, of Chertsey, belived iu his cow, and with justice too, and she was there She was a pure white animal, and a perfect picture in every way Did any local Landseer elect to attempt to illustrate Longfellow’s “ Evangeline,” we would advise him to make the Chertsey cow his model for the heroine’s white heifer. Messrs Dudley and Northey’s heifers —their own breeding—were excellent beasts, but the first prize went to “Lilian II,” as being the best of the three, and the second to a grand animal belonging to Mr W. H. Rule, of Pondarves. We will probably hoar more j of Mr Rule’s exhibit when she is a cowi j Mr Strlngfellow’s yearling was also a very J promising heifer, and worthy the first prize she obtained. Aytahires were not a large, but they were a .select show. The bull from Mr Stringfellow’s farm at Chertsey was a splendid animal, a big powerful bull, showing all the points of his celebrated breed, and gained a well deserved first prize, Ashburton has never laid itself out as a nursery for Ayrshires, and it is not to be expected that its shows should display cattle eoual to that to be seen at Oama ; u, the New Zealand home of the Ayrshire breed, but the fine bulls, cows, and heifers shown by Mr W. R. Clarke—whose knowledge ef Ayrshires is so complete that what he does not know is not worth enquiring after-—were indeed a pleasure to see. Specially noticeable were the “ Maggie,” daughters, we fancy, of the celebrated Maggie Warnook, though in this we may be In error, but certainly |rand beasts, and Mr Clarke is entitled to til our compliments. Nor must the exselleut exhibits of Mrs John Carter and Mr J. G. Restell be forgotten. We can sarely notice the fine Dutch bull shown >y Mr ■ ; rigg, and the Devonshire bull of Mr Doherty. Mr Grigg has impor ed I several of the excellent milk and meat making Dutch cattle, and his exhibits yesterday were some of his his recent acquisitions. The Dutch cattle are capital milkers, and if they take the taste of the good wives of the Ashburton farmers, as we feel sure they will, they have a wide range of popularity before them. Among the other breeds shown were a Brittany covy by Mrs John Carter, one of the of which the late Mr Carter used to be so proud ; an Alderney by Mr F. Hydes ; a fine Ayrshire bull by Mr Donaldson ; and a fat bullock by Mr W. Wilkinson ; a fat cow by Mr Tasker ; and a fat heifer by Mr Annett. It says much for the Chertsey land that such an exhibit as Mr W. Wilkinson’s fat bullock was possible. A few years ago when the land i was uwatered and dry, such a beast could not possibly have been produced, |

CATTLE. (Imported or otherwise.) SHORTHORN.

Judges—Messrs A. Grant, E. Parnham and James Guild. Marshal : 'in J. Tucker. For the best bull calved since Ist July, 1882— Dudley and Northey. For the best bull calved since Ist July, 1883— J. Stringfellow, 2. For the best cow of any age, in milk or in call—Dudley and Northey, 1 and 2; E. McDonald, highly commenced: For the best heifer Calved' since Ist July, 1882—Dudley and Northey, (calved' 12th March, 1883) 1; W. H. Buie, (calved Hth April, 1883) 2. For the best heifer calved since Ist July, 1383—J. Stringfellow. Axeshirb. For the best him cawed since Ist July, 1881*—J. Stringfellow, /

For the best bull calved since Ist July; 1882— W. E. Clarke. For the beat bull calved since Ist July, 1883— W. E. Clarke. „ For the best cow of any age, in milk or in calf—W. E. Clarke, 1 and highly commended; Mrs John Carter, 2. For the best heifer calved since Ist July, 1882— W. E. Clarke, 1 and 2, and highly commended. For the best heifer calved since Ist July, 1883— J. G. Eeatell, 1; J. Stringfellow, 2. W. Lyttelton’s prize of £2 2s for the best . Ayrshire cow and heifer of any age—W.' B. 51 Clarke, 1. Anv Oiiier Breed. For the bert ball of any aze--John QriM, w «» I; W. Doherty. 2. ** For the best cow of any age in- milk or in jalf—J. Grigg. The Press Company’s prize of £1 Is for the best dairy cow of any breed—John Grigg, 1; Mrs John Carter, highly commended. - Extra Exhibits. John Grigg, 1 Dutch cow, 2 heifer calves, 2 bull calves, all highly commended. S. Donaldson, 1 Ayrshire bull, commended. For the best fat bullock—W. Wilkinson, 1. For the best fat cow—James Tasker, 1.. For the best fat heifer—Thomas Annett, 1. HORSES. The exhibition of draught hones was hardly equal, either in point of numbers . . „ or quality, to that of last year, although several animals of exceptional merit were shown. A careful examination of the individual exhibits was rendered a matter of considerable difficulty by owners 7 | totally disregarding a very proper regulation which required that no horse should be removed from its allocated stand without the permission of the stewards. Yesterday a large number of the stands were deserted, and those persons who wished to compare the intended ocou- - pants, had to search the length and' breadth of the ground for the purpose. - Iu the class for entires of any age, Mr Leonard White’s King of the Vanquishers, a nicely framed horse standing on good legs and feet with plenty of hair, was deservedly placed first, although Kelvin, his only opponent,, showed lots of quality and well merited the second reward. King of the Vanquishers also secured the President’s special prize , of L 5 5s for the best draught entire travelling the district. Mr White secured first] with Pride ?of the Bankers, a well - I grown son of Young Banker, in the class ,■ for three-year-old entires. In the class for the bes mare in foal or witb foal at foot, Mr White’s Maggie I’Brown, a really beautiful mare, was first, and Mr Grigg’s Countess second. Maggie O’Brown also won in the next class for the best mare with two of herprogeuy; Mr Williamson’s Molly, shown nice geldings as her progeny,, was r aeoond. Unless the judges had fuller inert uctions than appeared in the official catalogue in reference to this class they might have experienced some difficulty in making their awards. It was not clear if the progeny was to weigh in the award or not, and if not, it was superfluous to require that exhibits should be sound* Mr White’s Rose was the only entry In the class for dry mares, and we thought hat barely entitled to the recognition of a first Mr J. Grigg won the class for three-year-old fillies with a very well grown mare, but we preferred Me Cochrane's ’ exhibit which was placed second. - Mr White’s Blossom was alone in the class for two-year-old fillies. The class for mare or gelding suitable for a carrier’s cart attracted seven entries, and Mr Crooks won with a nice moving black gelding. Mr Mclntyre’s Rose, a useful looking bay mare was* placed second, and Mr Williamson’s Jessie was considered worths of a highly commended. In yearlings, Mr Jameson beat Mr White with a very promising colt. Mr White's NelSott won easily in the class for geldings of any ago with a large framed horse standing on capital legs. Mr McCaffcrty was second with a nice bay, shown in excellent condition. Mr Doag’s Prince and Mr Williamson’s Pat were placed 1 first and second respectively in the o ass. foe two-year-old geldings, and both give promise of making up into good horses. Mr Tait’s special prizs for the best pair of draught horses in regular work, was won by Mr Jameson’s geldings, the beat matched pair we have seen for some time. The same pair, with ano her gelding not quite their equal, figured in the class of teams of three, and were placed first. Messrs Dudley and Northey’a special prizs of L 3 3i for the best mare or filly of a-jy age was won by Mr White.

LIGHT HOR&ICS.. The light horaoa as a whole made op a really creditable display, and sever*! of the competitions, notably that for harness horses, were very Keen. Dr Rqbb’b Cheviot secured a well deserved first in the class for thoroughbred entires, an) this handsome son of Traducsr was in condition which reflected the very highest credit upon W. Gookson, who has had him in charge. We shall be surprised if owners of well-bred mares in this; county - do not largely avail themselves of the opportunity they now have to .secure the services of t is horse, for we are confident that Ashburton will not be allowed to retain the greatest thoroughbred in the colony for another season. Kingfisher, a horse of great substance that hsa already earned a well deserved popularity in the district, was placed second, and having shown himself able to sire horses of a particularly saleable description, the. owner of the handsome son of Skyscraper should find no difficulty in filling his pypgramme. The speedy Bfarchioness Neil trade her debut as a brood mare, and placed Dr Ross’s special prize for the best thoroughbred brood mare to Mr Denshire's credit, Mr Mullins’ Minnie, a big roomy mare, by Castaway, out of an 11 Barbiere mare, received second, honors. In two-year-old thoroughbreds Mr W. P. Glaridge was the only exhibitor, and received second for an iron grey gelding by Castaway, which displayed more substance than blood. In the class for yearling thoroughbred fillies Mr Jameson was placed first with a well grown colt by Tribune out of a Bavensworth insure, but we preferred a filly by Python out of a Blood Royal mare, exhibited by Dr Ross. The latter showed lots of quality, and was one of the few really handsome Pychons we have yet seen. In carriage entire horses Mr Grigg’s Tam O’Shanter (a recent purchase from Mr Smith, of Mount Somers), was alone, but well merited the first accorded to him. Mr Rule’s yearling carriage filly, a bay -by Sir Charles, was very unlike its sire, a fact upon which we can heartily congratulate its popular owner. Although it was the only 'exhibit it was' very properly awarded a first', but an iron grey filly by the same sire in the ' class for two-year-olds, only secured a second. Mr Hawdon’s handsome pair of grey carriage geldings attracted I much attention, and well deserved the distinction they received at the hands of the judges. The class for buggy horses received seven entries, and the judges experienced some difficulty in selecting the yinners. Mr Sawle’s Lome, a stylish well-topped roan mare, ulti- ' mately secured the first card, and Mr Monson’s Star, by Messenger, a horse with all his sire’s characteristics, the second ; but we should have placed Messrs Dudley and Nprfhey's Gipsy, a ' very useful mare, lacking perhaps a little in before the latter. Five competed for Mr Stitt’s special prize for dog cart horses, and we thought Messrs Dudley and JSorthey’s Waihora, a very hand- > some chestnut with grant! quarters, had won, but the judges selected Mr Haw'donV ■ and Dr Leahy’s exhibits for the honors. Mr George Jameson showed a yery fdin brOwn geldinV in this class, which’deserv&d some complimentary notice af the hands of the judges. In the class for hordes, sui .able for a W hi’.eohapel cart Mr T. N. uigby’s Kitty was placed first and Mf Miller’s Polly second, A very hsadsog\f-

grey gelding shown by Mr Grigg won in the class for roadsters np to 14 stone, and Mr Moorehead’s Mark, a rather leggy chestnut, was placed second, a position Wo should have given to Mr Digby’s Bijou. The hacks up to 10 stone vera a , very nice lot, and assisted by Demuth’s o’ever handling, Messrs Alexander Bros’ Lauriston won, Mr Hawdon’s Banker taking the other card. Messrs Strout’s and Totty’s exhibits, both of which caught onr eye as useful horses, were passed out early in the competition. The ladies’ hacks made,, up a strong class of ten, and Mr Lyttelton’s nice mannered Ruby won, Mr Totty’s Polly second and Messrs McLean and Read’s exhibits securing . highly commended cards. The veteran Boer Tax was shown in this class by Mrs Hawdpn, and must have won easily but for .several blemishes earned during his crosscountry experiences. Mias Miller, who may fairly claim to be facile princeps amongst the many excellent horsewomen resident in the county, bandied Lady Wyndham in a trnely artistic manner, and won the genial Mr Oliver’s special prize for the best' lady rider on the ground. The maximum height for cobs was fixed at fourteen hands, and only Mr Williamson’s Tim sustained the test. He was awarded a second prize. Of those] beyond the standard, Mr Paul’s Press Agent, a very handsome pony, was alone worthy of so*e. The hunters, with the exception of Mr Wronghton’s Rajah, were a plain class, but they all jumped well and their trial waa the usual popular feature of the Show. Rajah won, and also took Mr Hawdon’s special for the best, hunter up to 14 stone. The winner was very well ridden by Smith, and the second prize winner, Cheater, had the assistance of his owner, Mr Graham. The ponies were not very remarkable, Mr Digby winning with Princeps, and Mr Wilkie securing second honors with harlequin. We preferred Mr Lyttelton’s Toney to either of the prize winners, but he showed signs of lameness which led to his early dismissal by the judgM.l The leaping match attracted a largacrowd around the judges’ ring, and an interesting contest resulted in Rajah being placed first and Chester second, the rider of the.fo*mer, Mr J. Smith, securing Mr Quill’s special prize for the best rider.

HORSES. (Imported or otherwise.) , Draught Horses.

Judges—Messrs Hay Smith, J. C. McKerrow, ' and Neil Fleming. Marshals in attendance—Messrs D. Thomas and W. J. Silcock. For' the best entire of any age—Leonard White’s 'King of the Vanquishers, by Young Vanquisher-dam Miss M'Cormick, 1; W. Graee’sKelvin, 7 ,years, by Napoleon—dam Bess, 2. . The President’s (Duncan Cameron’s) prize £5 da for the best draught entire travelling the district—Leonard White’s King of the Vanquishers, 1. For the best entire horse foaled since Ist July, 1881 —Leonard White’s Pride of the Bankers, by Young Banker, 1 For thb best mare in foal or withfoal at foot—Leonard White’s Maggie O’Brown, with foal, by King of the Vanquishers, !; John Grigg’s Countess and foal, 2. For thO best mare, to be shown with two of her progeny—L. White’s Maggie O’Brown, with foal, by King of the Vanquishers, and ■ yearling by Young Banker, 1; D. Williamson’s Dolly, with two geldings—Jock, 4-year-old, and Pat, 2-year-old, 2. For the best dry mare of any age—Leonard White’s Bose, by Renfrew Jock—dam Sally. For the best filly foaled since Ist July, 1881 —John Origg, 1; James Cochrane’s bay filly, by Glen Boy, foaled Nov. 1881, 2; John Grigg, highly commended. For the best filly foaled since Ist July, 1882 —Leonard White’s Blossom, by Young Prince Charlie—dam Blossom, 1 For the best mare or gelding suitable for carrier’s cart (up to SOcwt.) —W. J. Crook’s black gelding, Bob, 1; B. Mclntyre’s bay mate, Rose, 3 ; D. Williamson’s bay mare, - Jessie, highly commended. For the best yearling colt or filly—W. Jameson’s colt, by Prince Victor—dam by Major, 1; L. White’s Flora Fleming, 2. For the best gelding of any age—Leonard White’s Nelson, by Lord Glasgow, dam Jewel, 1.; -F. MoCafferty’s Wallace, by Prince Koyal, 2 ; R. Millar, Dnke, highly commemded. For the best gelding foa.ed since Ist July, ' 1882—P. Doig’s Prince, by Prince Royal, dam Besrie, by Campsie 111., foaled November, 1882,1 ;D. Williamson’s bay gelding Pat, 2. J. Tait’s prize of cart bridle (value £1 Is) for the best pair of draught horses, mares or geldings, in regular work; the hem, fide property of the exhibitor—W. Jamison’s Jim and Glen, 1; L. White, 2. For the best team of three horses, (Same conditions)—Leonard White’s Nipper, Prince, and Gebrdie.

Dudley and Northey’s prize of £3 3s for the best draught mare or filly of any age—L. White. - i

Blood Stock. Judges—Messrs F. Campbell, A. M. Clark, and Captain Cotton. Marshals in attendance—Messrs M. Stitt and K. B. Jeff. For the best entire horse of any age—Dr W. G. Boss’ Cheviot, by Traducer, dam ■ Idalia, 1; Edward Cookson’s Kingfisher, by Skyscraper, dam Bemnant, 2. Dr Boss' prize of £2 2s for the best thoroughbred mare in foal or with foal at foot—W. B. Denshire’s Marchioness Neil, by Papapa, dam Bed Bose, with foal at foot - by Digby Grand, 1; S. J. Mullins’ Minnie, by Castaway, dam, an II Barbiere mare (imp.), with foal at foot by Daniel O’Bonrke, 2. For the best gelding or filly foaled since Ist Jnly, 1882—W. P. Claridge’s iron grey gelding Salop, by. Burlington—dam by Castaway, foaled 28th August 1882, 2. For this best colt or filly foaled since Ist July, 1883—W. Jamison’s colt, by Tribunedam, Bavenswbrth, 1; Dr W. G. Boss’s filly, by Python—dam, a Blood Eoyal mare, 2. ' ■ Cabbiaoe Bosses. For the best entire horse of any age—John Grigg’s Tan? O’Shanter, by Messenger—dam Banshee. For the beat oolt or filly foaled since Ist July, 1883—W. H. Buie’s iron grey filly, foaled 13th November, 1882, 2 For the best filly or colt foaled since Ist July, 1883—W. H. Bole’s bay filly, foaled 6th October, ,1883. For the best'pair of carriage horses, mares or geldings, the property of one owner—C. G. Hqwdon’sgrey geldings Doctor syrs, Miles 7yrs. For the best boggy horse, mare or gelding —J. W. Bawle’s mare Lorna, 1; Edward Monson’s gelding Star, by Messenger, 2. M. Stitt gives £3 3s for the best dog-cart horse, mare or <■ gelding, to be shown in harness, and driven—O. G. Hawdon’s gelding Doctor, 5 3years, 1; Dr Leahy’s gelding Squire, 2.

- -Hackneys. For the .best mare or gelding suitable for a farmer’s Whitechapel cart, the bam fide property of a farmer— H: MiJnerls mare , Folly; 1 1 1 mare IGtty', 8. ' For the best roadster or hack' (mare or gelding) up to 14 stone weight—John Grigg’a grey gelding, 1; John Moreheadls chestnut, gelding Mark, 2. For the* best roadster or hack, mare or gelding, fit to carry not less than 10st weight —Alexander Bros, bay gelding Lauristcn, 1; C- G. Hawdon’s chestnut gelding Banker, 3. Q. W. Purnell’s prize of £1 Is for the best lady’s hack, mare or gelding, which has been thoroughly broken in is t lady’s back; to be shown in side saddle and ridden with a skirt— W. Lyttelton’s black mare Baby, 1; ' John Totty?s chestnut mate “ Polly," 2; Jas, ■ Wilkinson’s chestnut gelding, highly commended; C. Beid’s chestnut gelding Olrig, "by Dondee, .by Traducer, .highly commended; Hon John McLean’s Brigantine by Smuggler,' highly commended Hi C.. Seger’s prize of a trimmed bonnet for the rider of the best lady’s hack—Miss Bobinaon r Methren, rider, of Buby. For the best cob mare or gelding not exceeding 14 -bands higfa-r-D. Williamson’s bay ■ tiding Tim, 2. -6. - Hostess., For the best hunter, to be ridden in the pr®tSilce''of the jfidges, preVions to examina- ‘ pop, tke£ fair hunting fences; three trials allowed;'' three .chtries or no prize—C, .. ’throughton’s bay. gelding Bajab, by Prickwfubw, 1;., A.'Graham’s Cheater, 2; F. P. pigtidge’s rodn i geldlhg i ßarriklni highly com- ■ priss l of £1 is for the best cider oat«b--J4r J. BoUbu miff.. ■

Ponies. For the best boy’s pony, mare or gelding, not above 13 hands, and thoroughly quiet to ride; to be shown in the saddle, and to be ridden by a boy or girl—O. Digby’s Princess, 1; W. Wilkie’s Harlequin, 2. Extra Exhibit. W. Healey’s pony entire Merry Legs, by Quicksilver —dam Mr Ladbrook’s prize mare Passion Flower, highly commended. D; Olliver’s prize of a lady’s bridle (value £2 2s) for the best lady rider on the ground —Miss Millar. PIGS. The pig classes did not fill well, but the quality of Mr Digby’s exhibits in Berkshire’s amply compensated for the paucity of the entry. Mr Digby secured the awards throughout the Berkshire classes with animals displaying all the characteristics of this excellent bred. Mr S. Mullin s won in *ho class for breeding sows with a very nice animal, and Mr Harrison’s special prize for the best sow and litter went to Mr Miller’s exhibit, a nicely bred sow with a very fine litter of eleven. PIGS. Judges: Messrs J. Skevington and J. H. Green. Marshal in attendance: Mr Henry Hunt. Tucker and Restell’s- prize of £2 2s for the best Berkshire boar of any age —O. Digby, bred by W. B. Clarkson. For the best Berkshire boar under 12 months old—O. Digby, 1 and 2, and highly | commended. For the best Berkshire sow above 12 , months old—o. Digby, 1, bred by W. B. Clarkson; James Brake, 2; O. Digby, commended, bred by W. B. Clarkson. For the best Berkshire sow under 12 months old—O. Digby, 1 and highly commended ; James Brake, 2, For the best breeding sow of any age or breed other than Berkshire —S. Mullins, 1; J. W. Sawle, 2. Alfred Harrison’s prize of £1 Is for the best sow and litter of pigs, and Geo. Milner 10s 6d for same—Henry Milner, sow and ! litter of 11 pigs. D. Strachan’s prize of £1 Is for the best Berkshire sow of any age—O. Digby, 1; Jas. Brake, 2. DOGS. At last year’s Show classes were provided for greyhounds, but this year prizes were very properiy offered for sheep and cattle'doga only. In the class for smooth coated collie sheep dogs Mr Strout’s Scamp, a very well marked dog, won easily from Mr Mabin’s Scott. In the class for rough coated collie sheep dogs Mr A. Jackson’s Rob, a very compact dog, looking like a thorough workman, was placed first, and was certainly the best exhibit in the section. There was only one exhibit in the class for cattle dogs, and that was not cdnsidered by the judges sufficiently meritorious to receive an award.

DOGS. Judges: Messrs Donald Cameron and J. E. Williams. Marshal in attendance: Mr C. Ireland. For the best smooth-coated collie sheep dog or slut—H. W. Strouts’ “ Scamp,” 1; J. Maben’s “ Scot,” 2. For the best rough-coated sheep dog or slut—Adam Jackson’s “ Rob,” 1. For the best cattle dog or slut—E. B. Jeff. PRODUCE. Judges: Messrs J. Henry, R. W. Shearman, and A. Harrison. Marshal in attendance : Mr E. Friedlander. For the best 3lbs fresh butter— J. Ashton, 1; John Blee, 2; Mrs Weston, highly commended. For the best display of fancy butter, not less than 2lbs—W. R. Clarke, 1; John Small, 2.

Mr John Orr’s prize, value £1 Is, for the best keg of salted batter fit for exportation, not less than 281bs. Butter to have been salted not less than 39 days previous to the show—Mrs Weston, 1; John Small, 2 and commended. The Press Company gives £1 Is for the two best cheeses, not less than 151 b weight each. The cheese to be the honajido production of an exhibitor residing within the county of Ashburton —John Small, 1 and 2 ; George Gilmour, highly commended. For the best side of New Zealand cured bacan (smoked) —W. J. Silcock, 1. For the best side of New Zealand cured bacon (unsmoked)—J. Stringfellow,!; John Small, 2. For the best two hams (smoked) —W. J. Silcock. 1; J. Stringfellow, 2. For the best two hams (unsmoked)—W. J. Silcock, 1; John Small, 2. For the best twelve hens eggs—-Isaac Hoare, 1; W. J. Silcock, 2. Mason, Struthers and Co, give a piece of plate (value £3 3s) for the best collection of dairy produce, including hams and bacon, the bona Jide production of exhibitor—J, Stringfellow.

IMPLEMENTS. Although in contradistinction to previous years there was no competition in the implement class, this did not prevent manufacturers sending specimens of their work, and the show was a highly creditable one. Two prizss were, however, offered, one of L 5 5a by the Guardian Company for the best collection of implements of New Zealand manufacture and another by Messrs Wood, Shand and Co. of L 3 3s for the best disc harrows with seed-sower attached. The former was secured by Messrs Reid and Gray, and the latter by Messrs P. and D. Duncan. Taking the catalogue as a guide, the first exhibit in the implements was an excellent machine shown by Mr F, S. Shearer, of Tinwald, in the shape of a band-threshing machine, which is easilj worked and should prove of great value to small farmers in the way of economising labor. The reapers an 4 binderawere in great force this year, nearly every one showing some improvement in the mechanism.* High as is the state of perfection to which these implements haye been brought, it is evident that the ingenuity of inventors is not allowed to lie dormant, and each succeeding season sees some al teration which however slight it may appear is far from unimportant. In this division Mr E. Keeco had on view a “ Champion ” reaper and binder, the first shown on a New Zealand ground! Judging from the testimonials received from American farmers, the “ Championis popular in the States, its chief merit being the light draught and low elevation. The “ Howard ” machine is well known in the colony, and if the two examples sent to Ashburton this year by Messrs 'i'wentyman and Cousin do not show any striking alteration 1 in construction, it is to be presumed that previous experiments with the implements resulted satisfactorily. Several noticeable improvements are to be found in the Wood's machine. The knotting machinery has been simplified, the pole and swingletrees have been altered so as to adapt them expressly for heavy work, a sheaf-carfying attachment has been added, and also an adjustable wind tnard for light and heavy crops. The angle iron pf the cutler has been reversed, apd the platform sheathed with iron, spas to enable low crops to be cut, and a divider hoard for tangled gra n is added. Alterations in a similar direction have been made in the“Deering” since last season, a new twine holder and disc cleaner having b-'en provided, discharging in front instead of from behind as formerly. By a change in the triphooks it is claimed that the sheaves are made b">th rounder and tighter, and an extension of the butter allows it to be regulated according to the length of the grain. We were informed that there are forty-one less pieces in the knotting apparatus of the “ Deering ” than in most other ma-. chines Leaving the reapers and binders for a time we come to Messrs P. and D. contribution to the Show. This

fi m had a reed and manure drill, on the chain-feed principle, so arranged that the S3ed and its nourishment are distributed

Ehr:.ugb the same funnel. Next we come to a generab collection of extras for repairs to ploughs and other agricultural machines, in’ which men ion may be made of- a Away bar support of iron for a teaser and binder* This » generally

made of timber, but Mr Keir, the local i a went of Messrs Duncan, has patented ’ this new bar, which is quite as light as 1 wood, and far more durable. The merit of the disc harrows with seed box combined, shown by this firm, is that it is worked by one action, and thus does away with much complicated machinery. The same merit is claimed for the broadcast reed sower, in which no work is done except by the main bearings. Another feature in this implement is that it can easily te put out of gear by the driver without leaving his seat. Messrs Duncan exhibited a seed stripper in which the metal fingerahre dispensed with, the work being done entirely by the wooden beaters. This machine is driven by a I chain instead of a belt, the latter being I more er leas > ffeoted by the weather, I while the small amount of machinery I about it enables it to be put out of gear I by the simple use of a tilting lever. Mr I J. VV. Oliver’s gorse cutter has been j already described in these columns, ard I it is only necessary to say that this was j the aole entry of the kind in the Show. J Once again among the reapers and binders, I we find that the “Buckeye ” shown by I Messrs Scott Bros is much the same as I was shown last year. The McCormick, J however, shows several noticeable im- I provementa since last harvest. A steel I sway bar, runring on iron bearings, is J 1 now substituted for the wooden one of I 1

: ormer years, as bait?;* less liable to break, an arrangement is provided for the easy removal of the sickle, bushes have been put in the wooden pitmans, the sprocket wheel has been enlarged, bo as to give a slower motion to the fans, and a new locking rod has been provided for the main wheel, while several minor Improvements have been made. The principal alteration in the Johnstone is concerned with the knotting apparatus, in which there is a new tucker, made dependent on the action of the needle, instead of the cira disc as in other machines. For this it is claimed that certainty of action is ensured at the proper time, which is not possible under the old system. Another advantage isjhat there is no strain on the twine, the expansion of the sheaf tightening the knot. More interest attaches itse’f to the reaper and binder shown by Messrs Reid and Gray, on the score that it is a colonially made machine, while the record shows that it can hold its own in competition with English and American implements. Wo were informed that this reaper is rapidly growing into favor, the firm having received a large number of orders for them. There is but little difference between the one shown last year, and that on the ground yesterday, the chief improvement being in the knotter, wherein provision is now made for the easier release of the twine, the latter requiring to be leas strong than formerly. By means of a double lever movement the reel is easily put out of gear, and the widening of the main wheel enables more ground to be covered. The chief feature in Mosses Heid a id Gray’s grass-seed stripper is its extreme [simplicity, all the levers being done away with with the exception of that used for raising and lowering the machine. The same firm have a broadcast seedsower for grain, grass, rape, and turnips, in which the force feed system is adopted instead of the seed being allowed to drop promiscuously, thus ensuring equality of distribution. The machinery for adjusting the quantity of seed to be sown is worked by the driver by means of a lever in the centre of the machine. We noticed among the ploughs sent by Messrs Reid and Gray, which otherwise do noc call for special comment, a strong double-furrow, made foe tho Rangitata plains. These, we understand, have proved to be very successful for doing the work claimed for them on the boulder land of this district, and are in great request. The firm, recognising tha need in working disc harrows, especially on hilly country, that the weight should be properly distributed, have solved the difficulty by instituting an improvement in this implement. This is by means of a spring lever, fixed to the horse pole, which is easily adjusted by a screw. Messrs Reid and Gray have also patented an alteration in the ordinary harrow, in the construction of the zigzag bar, which nytkes it firmer and of double tho strength that there was formerly. A ve y ingenious, yet marvellously simple, invention of Me Gray’s is worth notice It [consists of, a staple for securing the wire of fences in the standards, and is used when shifting f shoep from one paddock to another. We are told that within four months of the patent being taken out over 30 tons of these staples have been sold, Messrs Booth, McDonald and Co had a fine display of implements on tha ground. Among their plough exhibits, the most noticeable was their compound lever double-furrow, tho advantage of which is that the furrow can be straightened when the plough is in motion. By means of the patented fulcrum a very large range of motion is given. The disc harrows shown by this firm were arranged to give an idea of the ease with which they can be moved from place to place, the work of putting them out of gear being done in the space of three or four minutes. In ordinary harrows Messrs Booth and Me ona'd have made a decided advance, having patented a method of construction by which the tines are self-locking. The advantage of this is that it is absolutely impossible for the tines to become loose or drop off, except through breakage, while the maximum of strength is sunplied in the part ot the machine where it is most wanted. In their grass seed stripper, wp notice that the fingers have been widened and the drum made larger and fitted with hickory beaters. Tl is has the effect of the machine doing its work more rapidly and effectively. The Rosier fanning mill and grain separator is well known in this neighborhood, having been described more than once It seems to be admitted on all hands that a mo'e efficient winnower has not been manufactured, and owing to the extra size of the screens any kind of grain can be separated. Messrs Booth, McDonald and Co showed a s-t of horse pulleys and ropes, mounted with malleable cast thimbles with toothed wedges, instead of the wrought iron strips and rivets formerly used. Pulleys thus mounted cannot fail except the rope itself bnaks, and the castings can then be used again. Messrs Andrews and Heaven’s exhibits showed no alteration from previous years, but they were fully up to the high level attamed by this firm for chatfcutters and cbrncruahers, a branch of implement manufacture which they have made a speciality in this colony. Messrs R. "Wilkin and Co showed an Osborne harvester, in which the binder has been simplified, being worked by psm s instead qf cogs, and the butter has been re-arranged.

IMPLEMENTS. Judges: Messrs E. S. Coster and Joseph Clark. Marshals in attendance; Messrs B. Miller and C. Beid, The Ashburton. Guardian Company’s prize of £5 us for the best collection of implements of New Zealand manufacture Beid and Gray. F. S. Shearer and Co.—Hand threshing machine, highly commended. P. and D. Duncan—Grass stripper, £lB, highly commended. Booth, McDonald and Co.—l set patent tine harrows, highly commended. Booth, McDonald and Co. —1 patent fanning mill and grain separator, highly commended,

: Wood, Bhand and Qo.’s prize of £3 3s for the best dike harrows with seed-sower attached— P. and D. Duncan : 1 set disc harrows, 1.

PROD CE. This is a class which always elicits much interest, the farmers and their wives, especially the latter, examining the butter, bacon, etc, with critical eyes

,1 and being by no means slow to express 3 their individual opinion on vhe merits and s demerits of the exhibits. There was a t very good entry this year, and for a non- - expert it would bo impossible to say s which were the best, but the decision of 3 the judges, so far we could learn, gave . satisfaction, fn the first division, 31bs of - fresh butter, there were nine competitors, i among whom were four ladies. The first • prize fell to Mr John Ashton, who ini formed ua that the credit of making the • butter was due to his daughter, a young lady of sixteen. Mr Blee took second i place, and Mrs Weston earned a highly commended. In the fancy butter class, I Mr W. R. Clarke took first place, for a I very pretty floral design, and Mr John I Small, the only other competitor, the I second prize. The latter exhibitor had I to give way in the next division, being I placed second to Mrs Weston, who seI c ired Mr John Orr’s prize for the beat j keg of salted butter, fit for export. Mr I Small was awarded the Press prize of Ijl la for the two beat cheeses made lin the Ashburton district, and I the judges also attached a second I ticket to his other contribution, I Mr G. Gilmour getting a highly comI mended. Mr W. J. silcock showed a splendid specimen of smoked bacon, for which he was awarded first prize, and Mr Stringfellow obtained a similar honor for [ his unsmoked bacon. Both in smoked and unsmoked hams Mr Silcock held the pride of place, and for an excellent col- i lection of hen’s eggs Mr Hoaro was awarded a first. Four competitors came forward for the piece of plate given by Messrs i Mason, Struthers and Co. for the best 1 collection of dairy produce, and the i judges must have had soma difficulty in ' deciding, all the shows being very good. 1 For variety Mr Stringfellow’s was per haps the beat, and he was awarded the prize. 1

NEW ZEALAND MANUFACTURES,

I This class was not largely j epresented I this year, there being only three entries, J viz, the stall of woollen goods shown by I the Kaiapoi Company, some drain pipes I by Mr George Jameson, and a quantity lof bricks by Mussrs Friedlander Bros. The Kaiapoi stall was as usual a highly I creditable display, including many I novelties, and attracted considerable atI tention. Some worsted coating, the first manufactured by the Company, was among the novelties referred to, and the railway rugs, shawls, blankets, hose, etc., were fully up to the high standard which has earned for the Kaiapoi Factory so great a reputation. The drain pipes shown by Mr Jameson were from the establishment of Messrs Ford and Ogden, of Christchurch, and were first-class specimens of that branch of manufactures, while the hand-made bricks from Messrs Friedlander Bros. ’ fields were, to all ap pearances, qui e as good as anything of the kind which could be imported. There was no entry in the wool class, but Messrs Dudley and Northey sent an admirable specimen of a clip from some fat Hampshire Down hoggets, which ,received much attention from experts and was voted to' be first class wool.

K.Z. MANUFACTURES. Judges ; Messrs E. S. Coster, A. Craighead, and W. Horne. Marshal in attendance : Mr E. Friedlander. Best collection of New Zealand manufactured woollen goods—Kaiapoi Woollen Factory Company. For best collection of drain pipes—George Jameson, highly commended. For best collection of building bricks— Friedlander Bros., 4 classes common building bricks.

EXTRA EXHIBITS. One naturally expects to find a good deal of variety among the extra exhibits in an agricultural show, and there wa» certainly no lack of this element in Ashbuiton this year. Mr P, Perriman showed three portable boilers and four ranges from the foundry of Scott Bros, and a stall containing drums of Wilson’s sheep dip, which do not call for special comment, as the value of these commodities is well known. Of the case of millinery sent by Messrs Orr and Co we will- not haztrd an opinion, except to eay that it was a very pretty display, and designed to attract the female element among the visitors. Mr W. T. Kingston had an interesting collection of horse shoes, showing that the blacksmith needs to be. s mewhat of an artist if he wishes to suit the peculiarities of four-footed anima’s whose hoofs he has to attend to. Mr J. W. Baker had on the ground a locally built Whitechapel cart noticeable for its excellent finish and the novelty of the fittings. Messrs F. Brabner and Sons, from Christchurch, showed a rustic pony cart and a sociable, both admirable specimens of handicraftmanship and well adapted for their work, besides being ornamental. Mr Skevington had his grain separator, which we described in our notice of the Christchurch Show, and the agriculturists present examined it very closely. The judges awarded the nuchine a highly commended, an honor which was well deserved as the separator does its work to perfection. Fp c : mens of chemical manures were Bent by Mr Jameson (as agent for Lawes’ manure) and by the Belfast Chemical Works, and the Acme Barbed Wire Company, from Timaru, had a stall on the ground, with workmen in attendance to show the mode of stretching and barbing the wire. In the produce shed there were several stalls containing all sorts of things. Mr Maddern exhibited a bicycle, some sewing machines at work, and a large quantity of ornaments, while Messrs Begg and Co., through the local agent, Mr H. J. Weeks had on exhibition musical instruments, etc, his stall being well arranged.

EXTRA EXHIBITS. J. W. Baker—Whitechapel cart, highly commended. F. Brabner and Sons—Sociable, highly commended. J. Skevington—Grain Separator, highly commended.

Acme Barbed wire Co„ Timaru—Assortment of Barbed wire with tools, &c., with tools.

SMALL BIRDS. Largest collection of small birds’ eggs —R McConochie, 1.