ANNIVERSARY DAY.

Lyttelton Times, Volume LVI, Issue 6492, 17 December 1881, Page 5

ANNIVERSARY DAY.

FIRE BRIGADE DEMONSTRATION. Ever since the first pyrotechnic display, given by the Christchurch Fire Brigade some Ci agj, the inhabitants of this City have accustomed to look for exhibitions of a similar character each year. They were cere tainiy not disappointed last night, when the Fire Brigade—the members of which have given numerous proofs of their willingness and ability in extinguishing fires —reversed their usual course of procedure, and diverted the public with an exhibition in which fires of all kinds and colours were employed for the delectation of the sightseers. The demonstration commenced this year, as last, with a pyrotechnic display in Hagley Park, followed by a procession through the town, lighted by illuminations of coloured fire. Considerably before the time appointed for the oommenoemsntof the display, a largo concourse of persons bad gathered In the Park, chiefly on the rising terrace above the sports ground, where the necessary preparations bad n made. All the fireworks made use of in the display had been imported from Messrs Brock and Co., of London, with one exception a set piece with a central revolving wheel of coloured fires, the work of the Kaiapoi Brigade. Perhap# the most notable features of the display wore to bo seen in several of the " set pieces," which were provocative of applause from the crowd which bad assembled j the fire-balloons and the device," Advance Canterbury " which concluded the display. Among the first mentioned were several devices which called forth burets of sdmlrat on from the spectutors f one in particular, bad the appearance of rings of various hues summoning each other with a central ball of crimson fire, after the fashion of an archery target, tiie whole being enveloped In a shower of golden fire. The fire balloons formed the novel feature on this occasion. Four of them were sent up, the first two of which came to grief, catching fire through canting over shortly after their ascent. The other two, one of which was a largo 26ft balloon, wore more fortunate, and were seen to drift gracefully southwards till tney were lost to view. The lighting of the device " Advance Canterbury," the two-feet letters of which were shown in shades of brilliant blue, crimson, and emerald green, the colours alternating with each other, announced that this part of the demonstration jra* at an end. The procession was then formed at the Carlton in the order given in a previous issue, and proceeded through the city to Cathedral square. ‘ Numbers of Homan eandlrs and other fireworks were ignited as the procession passed on, and these, with the coloured lights nod the torches of the fire-

man, added greatly to the brilliant effect Breduced.8 reduced. It why be mentioned here that Mr W. R. Parker, who hat recently pur* ohaeed tho old building »t tho junction of Armagh and Colombo streets, known as E. B. and F. A. Bishop’s, had converted tho upper storey, from which the wall# have been re* moved, into a temporary grand stand, from which a good view of the procession could be obtained. Mr Parker’s intention was to de* voto tho whole amour t he received to the Kerr and Campbell relief fund, and it is to be hoped that the object induced many to contribute. When the procession reached the square, it was greeted with a joyous peal from the Cathedral Bells. Colombo street was then traversed to tho Houth Bolt, where the order of the procession broke up. The various Fire Brigades present were— Tho Christchurch, under Superintendent Harris, to whom the eucceis of the whole demonstration is principally duo; the Bail* way Brigade, under (superintendent Ashley; ana the Kaiapoi, commanded by Superintendent Blackwell. The Artillery and Bail* way Banda wore present during the display in the Park, and accompanied the procession throughout tho city, enlivening the whole proceedings by their excellent music.

AKAROA EXCURSION. The annual Anniversary Regatta, Flower Show and Industrial Exhibition was held at Akaroa yesterday, and to enable the Christchurch and Lyttelton people to visit that picturesque port of tho Peninsula, and be present at the day's festivities, the Union S.S. Company laid on their commodious steamer Penguin, Captain James Edie, to run an excursion trip, and most liberally was she patronised. A largo number of Lyttelton people were on board the steamer, with tho Lyttelton brass band, whose services bad been engaged by the Begatta Committee, before tho Christchurch train came in. This was crowded, and the excursionists soon found their way on board the steamer, which was ready for a start. At 820 the Penguin left the wharf with some 470 passengers, all of whom wore in the best of spirits, the beautiful morning giving every promise of a most enjoyable trip, the wind being light from the north-west and the sea smooth. On reaching the Heads, a light northerly swell was experienced, and the steamer rolling a little, a large number of her passengere paid the customary tribute to Neptune's power. Their troubles, however, were of abort duration, for soon after tho Long Lookout woe passed the invalids speedily recovered, and thoroughly enjoyed the remainder ot the trip, wnien was almost as smooth as though steaming along a river. Soon after leaving the wharf breakfast was served in the usual liberal style maintained in all the company's steamers, and at a quarter to twelve the welcome sound of the lunch bell was heard, tho saloon tables being speedily filled by hungry passengers, ready and able to do ample justice to tho excellent cold spread provided. The Akaroa wharf woe reached at 12.40 p.m., a large number of people being assembled to see the steamer arrive. She band ployed several selection* on the passage down. The vessels in Akaroa harbour were all dressed in holiday fashion, notably the ketch Catlin, which was tke flagship for the day, and the harbour was dotted with a number of small crafts. The town wore its customary holiday aspect, a very large number of visitore from the surrounding districts being present to enjoy the carnival day of the year. The hotels in the town did a capital business daring the day. The local police were on the alert, but so far os coaid be seen, their services were not required. The Lyttelton band played numerous selections during the afternoon, and contributed greatly to the general enjoyment. Thb Bioaita.

Commodore—Mr W. B. Tosswill. Judge* —Messrs J. Aylmer, J. Welch, H. Hawkins, W. Masefield, W. Wilkins, and W. H. Hargreaves. Starters—Messrs Frank Pavitt and W. Packard. Timekeeper—Mr La dost*. Hon Secretary and Treasurer—Mr H. 0. Jacobson. Committee—Messrs W. H. Henning, O. Armstrong, Black, Western*, Adams, T. 8. Baker, M. Daly, H. Aylmer, J. D. Garwood. E. 8. Latter. Bev H. Stocker.

A very attractive programme had been arranged by the Committee, and the entries for the various events must have given satisfaction to those who had taken the trouble to work the regatta up. The highly satisfactory manner in whioh it went off was io a very great measure due to the indefatigable exertions of the Honorary Secretary, Mr H. 0. Jacobson, who spared no (rouble. The generally expressed opinion that it was by far the best regatta that had been held in Akaroa, must have been very gratifying to the Committee, and they are to be com* mended for the excellence of their arrangements. Besides the local boats, the Christ* oburoh Bowing Clubs sent down two boats to compete in the rowing races, and the Lyttelton Club one boat; a sailing boat was also sent from Lyttelton. Three canoes were also sent from Christchurch, the veteran, Mr Jones, being one of (be competitors, and taking the prize. In the yacht race, Wei* lington and Lyttelton were represented, the former by the Xarife, and the latter by the Dove. The Fleetwing was in Akaroa, but being only on a cruise did not enter for the race. Great interest was taken in the various events, especially in the Yacht, Pair-oared, Double-sculls, and Canoe Baoes, the winners in each being loudly cheered oe they came in. All the erects on the programme were got off, with one exception, that being a dingy race, and the results appeared to give general satisfaction. The following is a detailed account of the racing.— Yaoht Raoh, open to all comers j (wo to •tart or no race—First prize, £BO j second, £6. Dove (Mr H. H< tohinson), 24 tons, 1 ; Xarifa (Captain Butt), 15} tons, 2 | Chance (Messrs Black and Brown), 7 tons, 9. The race was started at 129, the three yaohte getting away well together. The Dove was the first to pass the flagship at 2h 42m 40s, followed by the Xarifa, 2h Sim 40s, the Chance sis minutes later. The wind then fell away, and kept very light and variable for the remainder of the afternoon. The Dove, however, kept the lead, and oamo in a winner at 4b 24m 275, the Xarifa second, at 4U 43m, the Chance half an hour behind her.

Dousii Sophjno Back, in stump out* riggers—First prise, £l6 j second, £s.—Ne Name, L. E. 0., W. FiUslmmons (bow), Qeo. graham (stroke)» Onuku, A. R. 0.. A. L. Stuart (bow), W. dtuart (stroke), W. Bod* rigues (cox) j Nikon, U. B. 0., Charles Stringer (bow), Fred Fuller (stroke), Charles Styoho (oox) i Kea, 0. B. 0., 0. M. Boulton (bow), J. F. Grierson (stroke). All four boats were despatched to a good start at 2.8 p.m„ the water being very broken. The flagship was passed for the first time in the following order Kea, No Name, and Onuku ; the Nikau haring swamped just before the flag* ship was reached, her orew were picked up by the steam launch. The Onuku, after rounding the flagship, went alongside the Antelope to bail out, baring apparently given up the race. Shortly after this, the Kea had to stop to bale, and the Onuku then made another start. The Kea swamped when about a quarter of a mile from the winning post, and the Lyttelton boat, No Name, came in an easy winner at 8.26, the Onuku taking second place, Baiuho Kaos, in open boats, open to oil comers.—First prise, £l6 » second, £s. Pinafore, A. L. Stuart, 1 1 Dream, W. B, Tosswill, 8 > Avalanche, T. H. Baker. 0 1 Blanche, J, Sinclair, 0. At 8,66 the boats were started, and after going over the course the Pinafore came in a winner at 6.88, fob lowed by the Dream, three minutes later, the other two boats being out of it. PAin OAit I)inov Bach, for youths under 18.—First prise, £8 1 second, £l.—Annie Wright, W. Glynan (bow), J. Williams Stroke), 1 j Black Ben, Brown (bow), Munro (stroke), 8. Started at 8.81. From the start It was seen that the orew of the Black Bees were overmatched, their opponents being much heavier. The Annie came in a winner at 8.86. A pro* teat was entered against her on the ground that her orew were over the stipulated age. Oakor Baor.— First prise, Oup, presented by Messrs Coates and Co., and £6 1 second prise, £2.—Kathleen, J. 0. Jones, 1 a T. 8.0. Canoe, William Lamb, 2; T.B.C. Canoe, W«

J. Wood, 0. Jon#* in the Kathleen led from the start, and won easily, Lamb coming in second 2oteo later. Wood gave up the race. Baiuro Baob. in open boat*.—ffirstprire, £8) second prise, £2 —Wainui, Joseph Bate*, 1 1 Sausage Skin, F. Anning, 2 1 Dauntless, 0| Paul Pry, W, Olynan, 0. The starters sent the boats away to a good start at 8 40. The Wainui posted tho Flagship at 6h 12m 40#, followed by the remarkably named boat 87*eo later. The Dauntless and Paul Pry were out of the race entirely. Paib-Oabro Kaos, in stump outriggers. First prise, £16 1 second prise, £o,—No Name, LRO.—T. Harkite (bow), 0. Fitzsimmons (stroke), Ij Ken,O.R.O.—O. B.Dobion (bow), L. U. Olllvt r (stroke), 2, The two beau were sent away at 4h 2m 265, on even term#. The Lyttelton boat took the lead, and after going round the course once, passed the Flagship at 4h 11 min 48see, followed by the K#a 16 seconds later. The No Name increased the lead, and came in at 4b 21mln sG#oo, the Kea being just 84 seconds behind her. The race was well pulled by both crews, and the water being quite smooth, a capital race resulted.

Thb Hobtiooltoeal and Inddstbul Bxhibitions.

President, Her J. Aylmer ; Vice-Presidents, Bev W. Stocker, Mr J. D. Garwood»

Secretory, Ur S. Watkins. These Exhibitions were, as usual, held in the schoolroom, and were superior to those of former years in the character of the exhibits. The flowers were very good indeed, all looking remarkably healthy. In the fruit and vegetable classes the exhibits were quite up to the usual standard of excellence. The dairy produce was represented by some very good samples of cheese, butter, and home* made bread. In the Industrial Exhibition the samples of needlework, of various kinds, were remarkably good, and far beyond the exhibits of former years—some of the crewel work being most beautifully done. Some samples of patchwork also attracted much attention.

The Exhibition was opened to the public at half-past one, and abortlj after that the Mayor (Ur J. D. Garwood), accompanied by Ur W. Montgomery, M.H.8., and the members of the Committee entered the building. The Mayor briefly introduced Mr Montgomery, and asked him to open the Exhibition. He aaid he was glad to aee that the Exhibition waa of a superior character to those of former: years, and congratulated the townapeople on the s'uocess of the Exhibition financially ae well aa otherwise. Mr Montgomery aaid he would not detain them for any length of time, hot thought he might make a few appropriate remarka. The Exhibition waa, he believed, the fifth that had been held in Akaroa, and many people bad thought at first that it was presumptions on the part of the Akaroa people to hold such an Exhibition. But they had shown that they could make an exceedingly good show. Though the number of exhibit* this year waa not so numerous a* those of former yean, still their character waa much improved, and the work wae much better. The samples of jams shown were highly commendable. Hr Montgomery said this was an important point for the people of Akaroa to consider, for if any dace could manufacture jams to advantage he thought that Akaroa should, and he hoped the people of the place would see the importance of keeping the money in the country in this respect. He was very proud to be present to open the Exhibition, and he hoped that the gentlemen who had worked so long to carry on these Exhibitions would meet with all the success they deserved. Mr Montgomery alluded to the pleasure he felt in seeing the Ber Mr Aylmer present on the occasion, and he hoped he would be spared to see many more Exhibition* in Akaroa. He then declared the Exhibition open. The Bev W, Stocker, vice* President, and Mr 8. Watkins, the Secretary, had been indefatigable in their efforts to make the Exhibit ion a success, and their labours, we are pleased to say, were rewarded with the greatest success, as everything passed off most satisfactorily. These two gentlemen and Mr W. Jollio were also most courteous in supplying all the information in their power. The following are the prize lists

HOBTICXII/nTSAX. Judges—Messrs Balder, Bead, Penn. Fox Plants.- 6 fuchsias, varieties, J. D. Garwood, 1 j Karen,2; 6 geraniums,zbnale,S varieties,Garwood; 8 do do, Garwood; 6 double, not less than 8 varieties, Garwood ; 3do do, Garwood; 3 ivy leaf, 9 varieties, Garwood; best single plant, Garwood j 6 pelargoniums, Garwood; 6 do, show, 3 varieties, Garwood; best single plant pelargonium, Garwood; 1 specimen plant of any description, Balder; best drooping plant, hong up, Balder; ferns growl g Incases, Biche*. 2 heliotropes, commended, Garwood and Ditely; collection of plants, do, Ditely; collection of memulss, do, Garwood. Cut FZiOWXBS.—6 pelargoniums, varieties, Garwood; 6 sweet williams, 3 varieties, A. £. Watkins; 6 verbenas, 8 varieties, 1 trues of each, Garwood; band bouquet, Henning ; table do, Balder 1, Miss Walkdon 2; 6 pansies, not less then 8 varieties, Garwood. (Special prises, first and second, for collection of single oat flowers, cultivated and wildgreatest variety and most effective arrangement, Miss A. Watkins.

Vkqbtablsb.—2 cauliflowers, Garwood; 8 carrots, A. E. Watkins j 6 parsnips, Mullins; 6 turnips, Garwood; 26 pods of peas, Fyfe jIS pods broad or long pod beans, Keekai; 12 ?itatoes (kidney), Penn; 18 potatoes (round), ewinj 12 onions, Garwood; collection of potatoes, 6 of each kind. Hawthorn; 4 lettuce, Daxbary; 6 stalks rhubarb, heaviest, Beekai; SO asparagus, Garwood; collection of vegetables, Garwood; collection of salad, Garwood.

Fbuit, Bot leu than 20 strawberries, Henning and Garwood equal; 20 raspberries, Biohols; 20 cherries, Garwood ; 18 bunches red currants, Henning i 18 bunches white currants, Henning; 18 bunches black currants, Henning; 20 gooseberries (dessert), Cullen; 20 gooseberries (culinary), Williams ; 6 apples, last season, Miss Bowe; Egyptian peas, Glenneo and Miss Boe equal IKBUITNUL, Painting water-colours from nature (amateurs)—S. Watkins, 1 and commended. Water-colours copies (amateurs)—Bosa Badden, Normal School, 1; Mrs 8. Watkins, 8; Bosa Budden, commended. Illumination (adults)—Mrs Spun; boys—Aubrey Spurr. Drawing, under 18—Freehand, L. Wilkins, 1 and commended ; crayon, Bosa Budden, 1j pencil, Bosa Budden, 1; L. Watkins, highly commended. Drawing, pencil, under 16Human form, Guy Williams, 1; Ernest Watkins, commended ; landscape, Caroline Hunt, highly commended. Freehand drawing, pupils Government school, J. M'Cliraont, 1; W. Dalglish, commended. Freehand drawing, under 16, Gay Williams, Ij Benjamin Penllogton, 2. Drawing, before judges, under 18, Frank Scott, 1; L, Watkins, 8; under 15, Aubrey Spurr, I; Bthel Watkins, 8. Map, under 18, Mary J. 8 saner, 1; under, 14, Krnest Mpurr, I; G. Piper, commended j under 16, Aubrey Spurr, 1 j J. Piper, commended. Map, irons memory, before judges, B. Peniington, 1; J. M‘Gregor and Q. Piper, commended. Plain writing, under 16, J. M'Gregor, I; Aubrey Spurr, commended; under 14, G. Piper, 1; under 18, Maty Bayer, 1; 0. Grey, 8; W. Jennings, commended ; under 10, B. Manson, 1 1 Frank Peniington, commended; under 16, Agnes Peudel, 1 ; Lawrence B. Milburn, oommended; under 13, Harnett Hall, 1 1 0. Grey, commended. Carving In shells, O. D. Riches; carving in wood, G. D. Biohes ; model, G. Penlingtoo ) rustic work, O, D. Biohes j cone work, MissKissell, oommended; artificial (lowers, Miss Bates | sea weeds, Mrs S. Watkins ; G. D. Biohes, commended ; knitted socks, Mrs Burke; cotton patchwork, Daisy Hawthorn ; Crimean shirt, Mrs Maltby. Plain needlework, under 16—Ada M'Gregor, West Christchurch, 1, and highly commended, under 18, Isabella Armstrong, 1; Margaret Jolly, 8. Hemming handkerchief, before judges, under 10—Mary Wright, 1; under 7, Elizabeth Wright, 1. Button holes, before judges— Louisa Bieholls; 1. Bootees— Mary Ann Cullen, 1. Bookmarker *' Miss Frobisher, 1. Antimacassars—Mrs Kearney, I j Theresa Cullen, 2. Laee—Mrs 8,0. Itrr. Crewel work—Mrs 8, O.Farr, I; Julia TosswiU, 8. Crotchet—Miss Frobisher, 1. Tat-

ting—Julia To«awill, 1. Woolwork —Mabel Scott, 1. Child’s petticoat—Mr* Burn*, 1. B*it ironed *hirt—Je«»i« Jollio.

DAISY fKODCCB. Judges—Messrs J. Bay, H. B. Monkman, and J. Sing, Hew cheese—T. 8. Johnson, Jj P. Mullin, St P. David, 3, Old cheese—9. Fyfe, 1, Butter—Mrs Johnson, 1 1 Mrs Hayward, 2 j Mrs Waska, 3. Tub Etnvnv Tbip—Mav Dbow»k>. The Penguin was notified to leave on her return trip at 6 p.m., and hy that time the passenger* were on board, and at three minutes post six the steamer left the wharf. Shortly afterwards a most lamentable accident occurred, resulting in the drowning of one of her crew, a young man named William Ounc. The Ly ttelton tailing boat had been hoisted in the davits, and Gunn expressed himself dissatisfied at one of the foils not being over a oleet on the davit. He got op to try and put the fall over the cleet, in spite of being advised not to do so, and missing his footing fell into the harbosr. Tho cry “ Man overboard ” was instantly raised, and Captain £dia at once threw a life buoy to tho mao, from the bridge, the buoy falling within two feet of him. The captain and others shouted to Gann to get hold of the buoy, but he ■truck out in an opposite direction and headed for tho shore. The steamer was at once ■topped, the boat on the davits lowered and a couple of hands got into her. Three others of the crew jumped overboard. Unfortunately, the rowlock* could not be found, and those in the boat had to propel her as best they could. Gunn continued to swim, and everyone thought be would be picked up, but hie strength evidently failed him for all at once he was seen to stop swimming and go down. He never rose again. Some shore boats had put off in the meantime, but could not render any assistance. Tbs boat was then recalled, and picked ujp those who had lumped i overboard, they having secured the life buoys thrown them. The boat we* hoisted up, and the steamer proceeded on her way. Gunn was a young man, who joined the steamer as able seaman on her last trip from Dunedin. The passage back to Fort was a very pleasant one, out the melancholy accident cast quite a gloom over all. Port was reached at 10.50, and the passengers returned to Christchurch pi the late train. The arrangements on board the steamer throughout the day ware excellent, and did Infinite credit to Mr M’Einnao, the superintendent of the providoring department of the Company, and Ur Irvine, the chief 1 steward, who, together with his staff, was most attentive to his numerous patrons. Captain Edie and his officers did all in their power to make the numerous passengers comfortable, and our representative desires to acknowledge the courtesy shown by all connected with the steamer. POFULAB SPORTS. President, His Worship the Mayor; VicePresident, 8. P. Andrews; Hon Treasurer, H. E. Alport; Judges, Messrs W. B. Mitchell, Warner, G. Turner, £. F. Cog&n, J. F. Wachsmann, E. C. Farr, and James Campbell j Heferee, 8. P. Andrews; Starter, 8. P. Andrews; Clerks of Course, Messrs Farr, Atkinson, Lambert, Turner, Samuels, and Searell; Haodicappers, Messrs Andrews and Wachsmann; Timekeepers, Messrs Lambert and Warner; Secretary for Entries, J. F. Smith; Hon Secretary, F. T. Haskins; Committee: His Worship the Mayor, Messrs C. Walkden, 8. P. Andrews, H. S. Alport, H. Thompson, M. and F. S. Davie, J. F. Wachsmann, Frank Hobbs, E. F. Oogan, B 0. Bishop, C. P. Hulbert, T. 8. Lambert, W. E. Samuels, J. T. Walker, J. W. Drewett, E. C. Farr, A. G. Bheaib, H. (hooks, 8. Clarkson, W. F. Warner, James Campbell, T. Searell, J. F. Smith, B. W. England, A. Ayers, G. Treleavec, A Cuff, J. Bowman, 0. Louisson, W. Vincent, E. Hiorns.

Tbs rural sports held under the auspices of the Popular Sports Association took place in Hogley Park yesterday. The members of the Committee certainly deserve great credit for (be arrangements, which were admirable. The track had been carefully rolled and watered, and was in first-class condition. The ground was fenced in by means of ropes and posts; and by the sides of the Committee and dressing rooms, where the crash was likely to be the greatest, a substantial picket fence was erected—a similar plan to that which was adopted last year. The Committee and competitors were accommodated in the same convenient building as was in use at the lost sports. A noticeable improvement was Introduced, in the shape of a stand for bicyclists to rest their machines against, instead of having to place them in the Committee room, or prop them against the fence, to the annoy* ance of passers by, who are very apt to stumble over the wiry steeds, which themselves are likely to receive soma injury from such accidents. The weather was, on the whole, very pleasant; the sun shone brightly, but the north-west wind was not conducive to the comfort of competitors. The members of the Artillery Band were stationed on the green in the centre of the course, and by their spirited playing, added considerably to the enjoyment of the people. A short distance to the rear of the Committee-room was erected a small marquee, enclosed with ropes and stokes, where the Children's Sports Committee had established their head-quarters. The interior of the tent woe tendered beautiful and attractive to juvenile eyes by being bung with a profusion of toys of nil descriptions. These were distributed by that <ld friend of the children, Mr H. Crooks, assisted by the other members of the Committee, Messrs Turner and Drewett. Meesrt Phipps, Watts, Samuels and Ashman also contributed their aid in amusing the crowds of youngsters, who ran a number of races and enjoyed themselves immensely. The Foresters* Drum and Fife Hand was in attendance near the marquee. The ordinary attractions for the public were not wanting by any means. Two publicans booths, presided over respectively by Messrs Havenhill and Toovey supplied the thirsty ones with refreshments of a liquid but potent character. Mr Bobinson baa a couple of confectioner's booths on the ground, mid there were in addition several fruit, ice-cream, and lemonade stalls. Three merry-go-rounds appeared to be doing a good business; Aunt Sally found numerous admirers, and various other caterers for the public amusement, in a small way, were dispersed about the grounds. The members of the Qeneral Committee worked iadefatigably throughout the day. The starting was admirable. The time of the events was most carefully kept, and especial praise is due to those gentlemen who had the trying work of receiving the entrii* to perform. la only one matter was there room for improvement—there was sometimes considerable difficulty in ascertaining the names of the winners.

The attendance of the public «u large, the highest estimate placing it at come 80,)0. Tin# is a complete answer to those who pro* dieted that the sport# were losing favour with the people, and must have been high)/ gratifying to those members of the Association who, »u the face of so much apathy and even opposition, have so plwckily stuck to their colours, and determined to make one more struggle before giving up their efforts for the amusement of the people. It is to be regretted, however, that, as ou former occasions, the people should not hare been more liberal in paying for the really excellent day’s recreation provided for them. The total amount of contribution! received on the ground was £(>9l6a lid, an average per bead of the attendance, reckoning the latter at 8000, of rather more than 2d, almost exactly the came as the average contribution of each person present at last year’s gathering. The members of the Committee who were stationed at the gates v.ere most indefatigable in making appeals to the generosity of the thousands who thronged pact them, and in some instances were not a little disgusted at the flagrant examples of meanness which come under their notice. At one gate a party of five individuals raised the hopes of the gatekeepers by their fashionable dress and generally gorgeous appearance. •' Now for a haul,” remarked one of the janitors. No such thing! The five swell# stalked majestically through the gate, and ou being appealed to by the collector, one of them dropped into the bag—sixpence! Another man dropped a threepenny piece into the satchel of a col*

lector, with the remark : “It’* as little as 1 cm giro.” " Well, at any rate it’e little enough," »u the response of the worth/ tity Councillor he addressed. It i* but fair, however, to mention that in some instance* gold and note* found their way into the ham!* of the gatekeeper*. J he*o, thaegh, were by no mean* to plentiful u tk® Committee could have wish d. Th« amount of entry money received wa« £io 8* 6d, ar.d it i* anticipated that, on the whole, the receipt* wilt well carer the expense*. The sports were, without doubt, remarkably good. And hero a word of prute is do® to the Committee for the admirable punctwality and promptitude with which the event# were got off, ihe arrangement* were worked ail day with the ease and regularly of lomt highly* finished machine. ihmo wero o® tiresome wait*, no harry and no confusion. The bell summoning competitor* for the first event to their place* w*« rung precisely at the advertised lime, 12 o’clock. Ihe various handicap races came off punctually at the hours stated on the programme, and the whole of the day’* proceeding* were over by 5 p o*. The racing was, on the whole, very good, tho time mode being in many instances belter than that recorded at the laet sonirenary sports. The handicapping w*» taken exception to by a few, a* in some instances depriving a number of the competitors of ail chant® of the prize. The absence of loth Bowie/ and young Wilson from the walking compete tion was to be regretted, btiil, some v#>y fair performance* in this line were accomplished yesterday. Tbs Youth*’ Walking feae® in particular was a fine specimen of grod, steady walking, as was shown by tre time record of the various lap*. The bicycle race# were at popular as ever, but Allison, who bor® off the belt in these events last year, was ns* so successful on this occasion, and appeared not to be in the best of condition. The Youths’ Bicycle Bace was an especially popular item, and some promising young riders competed in it. The jumping was not equal to that at the sports laet year. There did col appear to ba *o much trickery among competitors, with respect to giving of ages and other matters, os is sometimes to be teen. A few proteil* ware entered, wtiich will be duly considered by the Committee. Ihe following are the events: — Bogs’ Bags, under 16, 220yds; first prize, 20s; second, IQs; third, ss. Five entries. H. Scrimshaw ] H, Lowry 2 A. Mummery 8 After a good start, Lowry went to the fore, the others in close attendance. When ab-jut half-way home, Scrimshaw paved Lowry in splendid style, and maintained his lead to the finish, winning a game race by half a dozen yards. Mummery was a good third. £L Geoghegan and W. Taplin also ran. Through some mistake, the time of this race was not token. Mur’s Bach, lOCyds. First prize, 60s; second, 30s; third, lot. Three entries. F. Woods I 0. Bolston 2 J. F. Ullhrer 3 A. F. Marlin also ran. This was a magnificent race. Woods and Bolston showed ■owe very reprehensible fiddling at the start, and were very properly put back a couple of yards. Notwithstanding this penalty, they soon took the lead, and, after a game struggle, Woods came in about a couple of yard* ahead of Bolston, finishing with a tremendous rush. Ihe time was not so good a* ihe phenomenal record of last year, on wbkh occasion the wind, however, ai eel the roilin a good deal. lime—lOeec. Time last Wav—94*5sec.

Boys' Bach, unde? 14,440yd5. First prist, 20*; second, 10s; third, 6>. Four entries. E. Scrimshaw ... 1 A. Hobbs ... ... ... ... 3 J. OUiTtr 3 The youngsters made a fairly good start. Scrim*base, whose style of running was very pretty, took the lead at once, with Hi bis close behind. Scrimshaw kept first place throughout, and won by half a-dozen yard*. Ollmr ns completely distanced, lime— 67 see. Time last year—Slsec. Boys' Bags, under 16 (the Mayor’s prize). One mile. Brit prize, 425; second, 20s ; third, Ids. fire entries. M. M'Connack ... 1 Foah Line £ Lowry 3 Taplin and Eornshaw also ran. This race was a rather hollow affair. Line tool the lead st the start, and kept it for half the distance, when M'Connack overhauled and passed him after a protracted struggle. Tapiin and Sarashaw gave up after baif a mile, and Lowry was so completely distanced that he almost walked in for third place. MlCormack draw away from line in the k*» quarter, and won as he liked. Time—fimiii *|seo.

Man's Back, 440yds. First prire, 60s; second, 40s; third, 20s. live entries. F. Woods 1 F. OUirer ... 2 W. 8. Fagan 3 A. F. Martin and C. W. Purchase also ran. This was a grand race. Ollivrr led at the start, and maintained his position till about half round, the others in a cluster behind him. They then closed up* and a masniiicaat tussle ensued. Woods emerged from the ruck, and draw ahead amid considerable applause. He breasted the tape about eight yards ahead of Oliiver, who finished three iards in front of Fagan, the third man. rtne—s4i«ec. Time last year—ss 4 slh.*ce. Osh Milk Cuampiok Bioyclk hack, entrance, 2a 6d. hirst prize, 60s ; sccosd, value, 40s; third, value 20*. Five entries, P. B. Bunsford 1 F. N. Allison 2 T. Search 3

A. Lowry and C. Myhre a!*o competed. After a dying start, Bunsford, whose* style is not, however, a pretty one, assumed the lead, with Searall second, and Allison thi-d. Lowry and Uyrhe foil gradually to the rear, and eventually gave up. Allison contrived to wrest the second place from a eared, but was unable to overhaul Duns/ord. who won os he liked. Time—Smin 43sec. Time, last year —4mio 3*«c.

Onb Mita BtraitiNa Handicap. First prise, 80s ; second, 40» 5 third, 20a. Seven teen entries. A. J. Martin, I3ojrd« ... .. 1 3. Cusack, libyds 2 J. Parish, 110yds 3 H. Bedford, ®}jds,; A. Hiil, tiOyds ; S. Hewitt, 70yds; Q, Whiting, 70yds ; W. Tapiin, 80yd» 5 J. Saddler, 80yds; Noah line, 80yds; A. Laurence, ISO* d» ; and S E. Martin, 140yds, also mn. W. 3, Fagan, scratch, B. Woolo.-io:;, 50yds, A. Pierce, 130yds j J. M'Court, 140yd# ; and H. J. Qeoghegan, 140yds were scratched. Cusack made the best of his liberal handicap allowance, and at. the end of the first quarter of a mile vts leading by a considerable distance, with the other# in an extended line. Ht kept his position for another lop, but A. J. Martin was gradually working up to him, ar.d Lawrence third. VI hen about three parts round the third lap, Martin collan d Cu.-aci, and passed him. Parish worked his way past Lawrence to third position, hut the handicap was too much for Übo others, who were hopelessly in the rear throughout the race. Martin and Cusack had a tussle lor the first prise, which resulted in' "iso winning by about six yards. Parish vu tome 20 yard# behind Cusack. Tune—lAtola Stihec. "Time last year—tminx& 4>6#ee. Boys’ Kac», «tuJ« 12 ; 440y& a . First prise, 20s 5 second, 10# ; third, ss, Fire entries. 18, Scrimshaw 1 ... ... j A. Hobbs ... : .. 2 J. Olliver ... ... ... .. 3 T. Gamigh&n and B. Smith alio ran. This was a good race. Hobbs and Olliver went to the fore at the start, hut were overhauled by Scr.mshaw when about half round. 'lhe latter won by about halfodosen tards. Time—lmln dice. Men’s Bags, half-mile. First prise, 60s; second, 4«#| thinl, 20s. Six cd*:.,. W. S Fagan ... .. 1 F.OlUver ... 2 K. Storer ... ... 3

J. D. Smith, If. Storor, and 9. Hewitt «m> ran. After a middling start, the two took the lead, and kept it til) act--.i :-d! round the second lap, when o:lner and Fagan passed them, and H. Storer after retired. Fagan drew ahead of in

•»; te of the game nmmng of eon by about eight yard*.. * ™rf niln 18 i *i*e. Time last year—2mia 113 own. Begin go Loko Jr*r. First P ri «- *»« nM'ond, SOrt. Three entries. T. Lyl-rd (18ft Bin) * 1), U reran y (17ft ll«») * . K. Btor»r *i*o entered for■thi* «««t. Lx ford’s jumping was very neat, but {“* dirtance be covered was not •fl®** ftjj •lewd by M'AuJ.ffe. the winnerof this item |»«t year, whore jump was 1"R ”* m * Tooths* Macs, mdcr 18 ; half-mile, F*rrt priio, Mr oandstein’s cups second, SO* ; third. 10*. Seven entries.

J, Butler J H. • ••• 4 . n T Kcitry, bo*h line, A. Pierce, and O. 01* ).i<n also entered. Mr Andrews got the competitors away to a tval sun, D.dry going off with the led. Itu'lrr, who mn very gamely. gradually o«erh »uled and pnwed him, winning by about si* yards. Otton was a good third, the Others tolling off behind Time—2min 20»#e. Time t*t tear—ltr.m I4eee. Fur*as* Btcrcte Race, under 17. First prtie, Mr Lambert’s trophy j second, value «)», Three entries. 3. Lar.gdown ... ... * A. K, Pforce • H. A. My hr* also competed. A good start w*» the prelude to a fine race. Loßgaowa Ifr. from «be K-ginning, with Prceese, who rv>oc verv gamely and prettily, close beh nd. Mvbre was soon hopelessly dislanoed, and f,Ve op. in spite of Prccce’s pluck, Ungnma gradually left him, and won by Home JSU'ttM* linie-Bmin SSsee. BrA>oi*o lijon Jrur. First prize, Mews , «.n : t o,’* cup; second, SO*. Pour

T. L.ford (Aft 3Jin) 1 c J (4ft 2in) ... 2 k, x sr‘.in 3 ' ,T. M‘Gregor aim jumped, and retired at 4fi i*n. i x :onl, who secured areond honours fo- tail event, tad year, jumped prettily, fin record, however, is not equal to that of isri year'* winner, Bradley, who cleared 4ft 5Un. Back, under 10, 410yds. First prize, 20*; seror d, 10*,- third, ss, Seven entries, A. ii'Lvren 1 a. Mimwi 2 Uur-t 8

W. Lawrence, Brebcer, Crosby, and l; jdop slfo competed. The race «h a pood »B", the young» «r* entering into it with kc h spirit. M'lArers, a plucky Utile runner, w ti by about fix yards. Tune—l min 12»c. Cosn u» Hack, for all competitor*, in coitu e IV ir* to le pireu at the end of the r»«f; all prizes and co blank*. At thi* race the Committee to award prize* for the bffl costume—to men, SO*; to boy*, 20*. Twenty-one entries. A. dcrimrhaw (men) F. Crosby (boys) T*f. s.tj-ouc rompetitorf, several of whom tr -e boy# of very diminutive size, entered for this event. Home of the dres.-es worn w-re very pretlr and tasteful. Meters V. -cliuianc, Hull and Mitchell acted at jn-.e&t of the costumes, and awarded the p;z.» a* abave. In addition, every comf; uior received a prize of small raloe. wo Mus Walking Handicap. First prize, £5; second, £2; third, £l. Ten en'rief.

i F Lawrence (170yds) ... 1 J. M‘Court (200yds) 2 G Gleason (60rds) 3 C H. Fierce, 60yds, and J. Blackey, SO Has, also competed. H. Lambert, scr; 9 tvobem, ten d*; G. Eoantree, 150yds; and J Osb. ?:.<•, liOics, were scratched. V'%* »ita«r in this race, 0. F. Lawrence, wa ted very pluckily, hat in a style that was jxr:is[-*, open to criticism. His liberal ban* dic.-p allow a tee enabled him to keep well away I rota the neighbourhood of Pierce and Gl-io.r;. who strove manfully, but ineffec-lut-'y. to overtake him. He passed Shaw an-J itlackey without very much of, a struggle, b ? did not fiaa it so easy to get in front of V Vic .art. I he latter kept the lead given him fey the fcwjdjo.p tar fix kps, but on the ecm.‘Jj Lawrence passed him, and, in spite ol his effort* to regain the position he had 1- ••'vr ein a winner. Time—First mile, iu ;j‘2>rcj two miles, 17tain 7see. Time It t y • ar - hirst mile, Cmin SOecc ; two miles, If n >tj 7 -S Ssfc.

tr.ooEi> Back (Men's), 230yd*. 1 . vi pm-.-, 3C»s; second, 10s ; third, *lo*. I' ,zr tU’.r.f.

ii. it. Stom I c -cr>i:;>h-vr and D. M‘J>an ... 2 .A. il jniii.erj end J. Butler, and J. Atkin*c i- v -i li. Baker also ran. '! >-a- a tL*e and exciting race. Mum- » * i lt d But ’tr csme in immediately behind U-' t» o v.or.-r*, but were disqualified on #>c v-j.’it of their B>g straps breaking. Atkinson cu r,:t : .■■. i, ,i r-tired shortly offer the »*•■» -V- t srj prise was given. Bvssijg :.*■ bacca, masked, 300yds. First hOi; second, 20s, Three entries. C. hr ■«:; ... . . ... ... 1 ..•I. iisan 2 F rl-»alto ran. The comical ranks worn k> l! «* c created a good deal of o»;.r me.:. Oi;.y one fail occurred in the of f-e r#ci. Brown, evidently an old hv i o', the a. si. »on with ease. Isru idit& ucnatjaa Bxsuicat. First )••f &; *!? *>;.(], £‘2 10j ; third, £l, 16 VV. Jf Goodwin (140yds) ... 1 •J. i tinsh ilouto*) 2 J. 0. C nsru e (220yd*) 3 W . Figiti, »cr.; 11. Bedford, bOydt jA. H! , W'hri*; a iirwitl, 120ycs; Q, WhitF ,;. liOyd» ; C. Brown, 140yds; A. J. Hbm.!., zi o,u >, and S. K. Marlin, 220yds, »lf, n.r ; . I tit f. Bowing •*» aerate tied t—li. .iilortoD, hOidt jW, Taplin, 140yds ; A, J. f ..a^fri. Z'*h d»; A. Pierce, 200yds ; 61 J MVy-itt, l.Oydl. fv;/uyt.j retire start Parish worked his waj !•;.»•. C'ueack, and began to pres# hard on tin- o'.i ers who had been handicapped in fr ft soon became apparent (bat Fegsir.tLf scratch mac, would not bn able to *Tc,-c..fr,r the disanantage at which he was pU-ed, ai.fl at the end of the first mile he n *ur followed by Hill, who also saw that hi- tiwk wo* ton much for him. Hewitt also n;> atitr a g*me struggle, and Brown fo »* -■! hi# eis'i;p!e. Goodwin, who had Iw-ri, e’tadily the distance between hnnieit ami (,it*ck, now passed the latter al>* r a line tu»»ie i ho*e who were ahead of Cu-vi <-.jj t !.* r lev l l best to get away from U»« u* ci.kjj) , but without avail. The s*c of ;in: spectators grew intense as Go •'»in [r.nkil ty the front and took the hi. 1. I';.?tv’i Ui-.'le * g»a,c -ffjrt, but it was ttr - l-r-, i r Gu-dam gradually inermtd hit ice ", fif 'J hreaiud the tapo wnt 8 or 10 jar I? G-fore him. Parish was tecond, and vu*ari ’bird. 1 ime - Knot mile, Cmin lo*e-cj S., .. ;v. ( ihjscc. I-H jrar'n time m*t 11r. w. 10 2o in fe>- ' ,-i ti.r two liiilr*. /.• t; l- roinluson of li,e race a protest was enu-f'l »gsiii»l u oed a in, on (lie ground that wnu-r had in mi him, contrary to the r-ile forbiddu tbe employment of atten ia'.fn. /•. r ‘<r this event a di-ai of ioterrst was

or. st-.-i by a Male race between two little b .•}* titnuni it<imood and Willie Mason j £;.*• -i >• i»s.d a h. f end eight years, 'they m r.* d't Mt'i x. very pretty luntiiog co«turner, und *ci.t ab.,ut their work in a very gmr.t w,!i t-no)ii«b«e style. The younger boy ui er i, repeal struggle at the finish. Tb<- u»i!f w»» a . ..uiplisbed by the youngsters it, fJ.iiin h'i-re. Bore’ Hack, under 14,220yd5, First j rise, 20a; tc.om.i, 10» ; third, ss. BiX entrhs. C . Serin »haW ... 1 A. 11 },->• ... ... ... ... 2 J Ollivrr ... ... ... ... 3 A. 'Sorst, li . Smith, and W. Tmjgrove slw nu, 'lbe boys went away to a good start, beritnihiiw roan atsumed the lead, and Won by some sis j wd*. Hobi » ran very gamely, end Obiter’ wa* th rd. Time—22»co, Time Bsl year—27 4 6sec. 'liihf’. 'l in, At> Use®, boys under 16 j 220 yds. PV»t prise, 20# ; second, 10#; third, s*. Sis, entries. A. fccHmsbaw and Lowry ... 1 Ljt-n -la) Wi itu 8 taller an-J Ali-maety 8 A Hob?* aud K- Scrimshaw, A. M'Laren «nd3r<Ht»«ro&d J. Burst and A. Bmbner also ran*. 11 u w a veil coaUitod net. A protest

was entered against Butler end Mummery on the ground tint the elrepe fastening their leg* together were loewntd during the race. The time mi 80»e«. flvuu Rack, over Sfl Sin t 440jds. First prise, 00a 5 second, 40* j third, £os. 81s »ntri««.

. F. Woods... 1 T. If lord 3 W.B. Fagan , -3 8. X. Martin, Clifford, Toom, W. Lavery, A. Pierce and Charles Toom also «n. There was a good deal of unsteadiness at the start, which Mr Andrews very properly checked by placing some of the wor*t offenders a couple of yards behind the •cratch. At last the men were got away pretty well together, and went f rlhc hurdles in first-rate style. At the fo .Hli hurdle Larety, who was running very like a winner, «n« hurt by the hurdle bring knocked over on his lege, and had to retire. Woods then look Ihelead, and won curdy. Mo-tof the competitors took the hurdle* in very neat iltle. There were seven hurdles, each the whole width of the course, so as to avoid crowding. The time was 63 I see. Time last yar- 65 4-6*ee,

Younts’ Walkiko Race, under 18. One mile, Fir,f pri«e, 40* | second, 20s j third, 10*. Four entries. J. M'Court I H. Shaw 2 Speight ... 3 A. Duvis also competed. This race was a fine exhibition of good steady walking. M Court, who had the advantage of being much bigger than hit opponents soon acquired the first place, and maintained it throughout, Davis retired after accomplishing half a mile. Speight walked in a very fair style, and tried hard for second honours, but Shaw, who also walked very nicely, overhauled and passed him. When nearing home, M'Court increased hi* lead considerably. Shaw put on a spurt, but was unable to catch him, and only scoured second place. As showing the regularity of the walling in this event, the following record of the time of the four quarter-mile laps posy be of interest: —First, 2min 5 second, 2min 6ieO; third, 2ann 7eec j fourth, 2min 17sec. Time — Bmin 29*ce. Time last year—Brain fifiseo. Htssib'O Hioa Jump, starting at 4ft Sin. (Messrs Petersen's prize ) c First prize, cup; second, 20*; third, iOs. Five entries. M’Qregor, sft s|in 1 Ashworth, 6ft 4in 8 Lyford,sf£3in ... 3 Lavery and Martin also competed. M'Qregar jumped very placktly, and was loudly cheered at the end r.f the competition. Bova’ Bags, under 16 5 440yds, First prize, SO*; second, 16s 5 third, 10s. Kino entries. A. Scrimshaw 1 A. Mummery 2 M. M'Comack 8 H. Geogbeymn, H. Lowry, Shaw, Morrow, Hoggins, and Barley also ran, Mr Andrews managed to secure a good stait, and the race was very pluckily contested. Scrimshaw hod a hard fight for first place, as both Mummery and M'Cormack ran very well. Time —59i sec. Time last year--60 sect

Bora’ Sack Back, under 16,200yd5. First prize, 20s; second, 10s; third, ss. Four entries. B. Whiting I K. Whiting 2 J. Forbes 8

H. Lowry also ran. This race was productive of a considerable amount of fun, especially among the juvenile portion of the assemblage. The nusks were of the usual hideously comical type. The first and second prizetakers managed very well in their sacks, hopping along without a single tumble throughout the race. Three Mile Biceolb Handioap. ■ First prize, value 60s; second, value 40s; third, value 20s. Bight entries. T. Searell, 325yds ... ... 1 H. longdown, 150yds 2 F. M. Allison, scratch 8

F. R. Dnnsford, 100yds ; J. Hanna, 170yds; A. E. Preece, 275yds ; J. F. Norris, 425yds; and A. Lowry, 450yds, also competed. Allison, who rode very plucktly and well, but did not seem to be in the best condition, soon collared Dam-ford. Searell worked his way past Norris and Lowry, but was hard pressed by Langdown. A splendid race ensued. between the two, while Allison and Hanoi had a fine tussle for third place, which resulted in favour of Allison, beareli drew away from Langdown, and came in a winner after a most exciting contest, lime—llmin lOsec. Consolation Bacs, for men, 440 yards. First prize, 40s; second, 20a; third, 10s. Four entries. 8. Hewitt I T. Ls very 2 The other two men entered did not ran. A good race. Time—6B*ec. There were no entries for the tug-of-war and the Highland fling competition. The absence of the former event from the day’s sports is to be regretted, as no competition is more enjoyed and appreciated by the public than a good tug-of-war. After the conclusion of the Consolation Race, Mr 8. P. Andrews mounted a form in front of the Committee tent and briefly addressed those present. He said ho had to return his heartiest thanks, on behalf of tbe t’orontitlce, to the public for tbe manner in which they bad attended that day. Tbe Committee had done their best to please tbe people, and be hoped they bad succeeded. As long aa the public attended as they hrd done, the Committee were prepared to And sports, and thus to help to keep up tbe celebration of the anniversary of the Province of Canterbury. (Cheers) Ihe band then played the National Anthem, and tbe Anniversary Sports of XBBL were at an end. A meeting of tbe Sports Association will be held at tbe City Council Chambers, at 11 am. to-day, for deciding protests and settling other business'.

AMBBELBF BAOE9,

Stewards: Messrs G. D. Greenwood, G. B. Btsrfcey, 0. Knsor, W. JL JBenn, K, B. Holdsworth, W. 11. Brown, T. M‘Haught. Hon Trmurer: Mr L. O. Williams. Judge: Mr F. Courage. Starter: Mr 0. G. Bing. Handicapper i Mr E. Q. Griffith. Clerk of the Course: Mr M. o‘Oonnell. Clerk of the Scales: Mr A. M'Donald. This country meeting attracted a large number of people to the racecourse, about two miles horlh of Amberley, and the day being fine cauicd everyone to thoroughly et j-jy iherosehes. The Stewards have not been idle since Last year, as they have during the recess caused several improvements to be made in the running ground by levelling the ruu in and sowing gross with the Intention of improving that part of the course which last y«nr ws» in a very loose sandy state. The gra«s has mode but poor progress, owing to the want of rain, but even thin turf is an improvement which cannot fail to be of la*ting benefit to the course. The means of transit to the course were, as on former occasion#, somewhat unsatisfactory, as although a large conveyance was provided, by ocly making one trip a large number of the visitors were compelled to walk to the course. The trains to AmherJcy ran us usual, and the Committee «-e decidedly to blame for not accepting the offer made by Mr Back to afford oslra accommodation. Had the evening train been delayed, there would have been a much better opportunity for the visitors and horse owners to grt away. By delaying the tram an hour, which could been done on application, St would have greatly convenlenced the public. The arrangement# on the ground were much the same as usual, but the Leithfleld tradesmen hod aspired to die position of caterers, a» the publicans* booth was presided over by Mr Since, end Mr Franks superintended the confectionery establishment, which was well patronised. The absence of any gaming tables or sweep* was noticeable, though them i absence proved a benefit to Messrs Bobirs and , Qoodwm, who had their Pari • Mutuel situated in a convenient position. They did a goed business, and their adoption of ten shilling sweeps proved a step in the right direction.

As to the racing there was so particularly close running to record, the Cup race being tbe only one in which there was u keen end close finish. Both the hurdle race#

ware robbed of their interest by the favourifces being thrown out of it. The Maiden PlaU was won very easily, and in the northern Handicap there were only two horses, one of which fell, and a canter won the slakes. The Ladies* Purse was also shorn of any Interest by some of the horses being scratched at the last moment. Two protests have been lodged against the winner of the Maiden Plate and Port horn Handicap, which the Stewards determined to refer to the 0.1.0. previous to deciding themselves. The following is the detailed account of the twees 1— Habdioap HtFßDtn Baoi, of SO sovs, added to a sweepstake of 2 sovs for acceptors. Nominations I sov. Si miles, over eight Sits of hurdles. Second horse save e. Mr W. 0. Murtitt’s br h Young Dlomedo*. o*t . . (0. Muf(ltt) I Mr P. Green'sch g Hope, list lib ... (Owner 1 8 Mr Crook** s g Houser, 10*11. (Owner) 8 Mr Ctsy field's Or g Alb, on, list 71b (T. sWsnjfall Green declared to curry 221 b overweight. This race was stripped of all excitement through casualties, end was won very easily by Young Diomede*, his only opponents, Router and Albion, baulking and falling respectively. Homer made the running at first, and was array over the first two hurdles, but at the third he baulked, and was thenceforth out of it. The race then lay between Diomede* and Albion, Hope bringing up the rear at a respectful distance, and regretting the overweight his owner had decided upon carrying. At the sixth hurdle, however, Albion struck the top mil, and came to grief, throwing hit rider, and Diomedes came in in a canter, Hope by a struggle managing to wrest second place from Router. There were 148 tnbfcribers on the totalisator, of which there were 84 on the winner. Hack Hubbub Bags, of 10 save, catch weights, for district hones only. miles, over four flights. Mr 0. B. Ps«gti.a.B*lta«h(M'Ksy) 1 Mr B Coleman a Young Pippin . 3 Mr Stark’s Sunshine and Mr Hunt’s Waimate Jack also ran.

Waimate Jack and Young Pippin held the lead for the first three hurdles, Faugh-a* B>»llagh hanging behind, and Sunshine out of it. At the last hurdle, however, Parsons, on Waimate Jack, bored Pippin off th* course, and his horse followed suit, and having to turn, allowed the grey to come in easily, though Pippin gave him a smart chase up the straight.

AuBBBtBY Cup, of 60 sovs, added to a sweepstake of 3 sovs each for acceptors, nomination 2 sovs, 2 miles and a furloog; second horse to receive 10 sovs out of the stake. Mr 0. P. Williams* ch g Talent, b* Totura. Syt*, estlMh ... ... (Bntleri 1 Hen W. Beblneon's blk m On D!t, Byre, Ost Mr H. Hereford** ch g The Joker, aged, 8 Mr E. Dorratt’s b g Don Juan, agod, ft 7*ts*b 8

(Nm'th) 0 Mr F Busch’s Farewell and Mr F Green’s The 1-ad also ran, the latter declaring to carry 82lb overweight. After one false start, Mr King succeeded in sending the lot away on even terms, Don Juan cutting out the running, and Talent, hard-held, keeping him close company, Bay lying clow up for the first half mile. At the three-quarter mile On Dit came up, Talent was let mit to secure first place, and they passed the post in that order, The Joker looking determines to take a more prominent position. At a mile and a quarter Bay put on a decided spurt and challenged Don Juan, and their places were reversed, The Joker lying close on Don Juan’s heels. This order was continued during the remainder of the race, Farewell and The Lad never showing in the race at all. Fasting the turn into the last quarter mile, On Dit made a desperate effort, but Talent, who had been well and studiously ridden by Butler, Same away when called upon. The Joker securing third place from Don Juan just on the post. Time—4min. '

There were 176 subscribers, 64 of which were on the winner. Maiden Plate of SO sovs, added to a sweepstake of 2 sovs j weight-for-age; H miles. For district horses only, that have sever woo s stake of more than 20 sovs. Mr T. Deaton’s b g Pippin, aged Pst 81b (Mitotel) 1 Mr O. P. Williams’ b t JBebeocs, Sjrr-, fist iZlb (Bat’cr) 2 Mr K. Marfltt’s bik homo Young Diomedes, aged, Pst lb ... (Q. Mu fit ) 3 Mr SL Vallance’s Constance, Mr Green’s Hope, and Mr D. Brown’s g g Peeping Tom, also started. This race was a gift to Pippin, who, as soon as he got himself together, took the lead and hold it to the finish, winning easily. Beheoca was the favourite for it, and gained a decided advanta-e at the start, which, however, she could not keep, and bad to be content with second place. There wore 123 subscribers in the total!sator, 20 of whom were on the winner, the dividend being £2 15«, Mr G. P. Williams entered a protest against Pippin, on the ground that he was under a disqualification which bad not been removed, and that he was not a maiden. Wobthben Handicap of 30 sovs, added to a sweepstakes of 2 sovs for acceptors; 1J miles; second horse to save hu stakes. Winner of the Amberley Cup to carry 71b

OXttSa Mr T. Benton's b g Pippin, aged, 7st (Mitcho 3) I Mr H. Horstord's oh g The Joker, aged, 7at Sib (li aw kins) 3 This also proved a hollow affair, through On Dit and The Lad being scratched, and leaving the race between the two abovenamed. The two were started well, and Pippin collared the lead at once, but The Joker, in attempting to pass a post at the drat tarn, fouled it and threw his rider and himself out of the race, and Pippin cantered round and won the stakes. The Joker was allowed to also canter round for second place. There were 163 subscribers in the tofalieater, of which 64 were on the winner, paying a dividend of £l7s. Mr H. Hereford at onoe entered a protest on the ground that the horse Pippin bad not been entered in his proper name—-Pippin, "late Playboy,” and that bo was not a maiden. Lanm* Ftrnsii of 20 sovs, for horses owned by persons resident between the Bivere Conway and Ashley, and ridden by gentlemen riders. Mr O. r, Williams* ch g Talent, Syro, list 91b (Mr J. I-uun) 1 Mr H. M'Lean'sblk g Bias Boy, tyre, list »lr> (Mr il. Vallame) 8 Mr ¥, Orem’s oh g Hops, Syrs, Wet Sib (owner) S Mr Buseh*s Farewell was semtoued. Talent and Blue Boy made all the running, and, though the latter ran a game roes, Talent bad the roost in him, and earns away easily when near the post. Hope was nowhere in the nee. A protest was lodged against Talent, but was disallowed.

There won 100 subscriber* in the to tall(tutor, of which 68 were on the winner, nod received n dividend of 13i. Posit Baob.

Mr Family's Pally beet two other# oeeily. COSBOtiAtIOH. farewell, 7st Htlb » Blue Boy, Set Wb « jiouw, Sst 61b ... . ... 8 This wm the belt contested race at the meeting. Farewell won by a neck, owing to the bed Jookeyibip of the rider of B'ue Boy, who led from the start, but on cowing into the straight allowed hi* horse to run off, The mere then took the Inside and won the event. Hack Baob. Young Barbarian won this event, beating seven others. This brought a most successful meeting to a close at about 6 o'clock. Over £4OO was put through the totaliestor during the day.

TSB LITTLE EIVBB BAILWAY. The drat passenger train for Little Biver was run yesterday, leaving Christchurch at about half-post eight o'clock in the morning, and returning about seven o'clock In the evening. Advantage was taken of the opportunity by Messrs Matson and Co. to invitee number of their friends to view the site of the township of Beafortb. which is to be put up to auction in suitable lots to day. The tattle Biver Bail way branches off from the Southbridgo line at Lincoln, and hero the train, which had previously numbered twelve carriage#, was augmented by about the same

number of trucks, filled with the children of th® Springs ton public school. At about twenty-five minutes past ten the terminus wim reached, the arrival of the tram being welcomed by a number of settlers from the neighbourhood, and immediately the passengers dispersed themselves In all directions In search of enjoyment. The children were well provided with everything necessary, and were looked after by those in charg® of them. Numerous independent parlies were formed, and those whom Messrs Matson had invited betook thom*elvcs to the shores of lake Forsyth, where the future town of Seaforth has been laid out. Here, after having had tint® to admire (he features of the scenery, the hill* of the Peninsula on the one side, and the Southern Ocean on the other, they wore entertained at a ohampsgee luncheon, provided by Mr William Coop, and courteously dispensed by Mrs Coop and her daughters. A stroll on the braoh, with the object of inhaling as much fro*h air as possible, and collecting specimens of the pebbles for which this beach has some reputation, was succeeded by a clamber up a steep rook, from the summit of which a grand view was obtained. Coming down from this, the guests were taken across Lake Forsyth in whale boats, enjoying the trip very much. The time between now and the departure of the train was well filled by a scurry horse race for £5, in which Mr Bradley’s Jenny was the winner, and a whaleboat race between a pakalm and Maori crow, in which the latter proved victorious. The opinion of those who visited the spot yesterday seemed to be that the site was one which possesses many advantages, from a sanitary point of view, while the adjoining lakes of Forsyth and Bllesmere will afford good shooting and fishing, besides facilities for boating and bathing. The place is readily accessible by a good coach road and by the newline, on:which the carriages run with exceptional smoothness. Though some people appear to have found a difficulty in getting water, thie. was simply from their want of local knowledge. An artesian well i« on the property, ana the water from this is of excellent quality. There will probably be plenty of competition at the sale to-day.

TIMABU. The Anniversary Day was observed as a dote holiday in Timaru, but a strong nor'wester blow all day and every thing and every bod? was covered with dust. The annual newer show of the Timaru Horticultural Society, held in Messrs M'Leau and Stewart's auction room, was a great success. It woe largely patronised by the public during the afternoon and evening. The sham fight at Washdyke was a great attraction for uoliday makers. A Targe number of Volunteers from Ashburton and Teniuka proceeded to the Washdyke by the morning train, and they were mot by about forty or fifty men from Timaru, who marched out to Washdyke early m the morning. The fighting programme was that the visitors, under Captain Young, wore to storm Timaru, and tho Timaru force, under Captain Hamorsley, were to repulse them if possible. A good deal of clever manoeuvring was carried out by both the contending parties, but the visitors had the best of it driving the Timaru men to the town when a truce was called by Captain Hamersley, who acknowledged his force vanquished. The men were then entertained at luncheon in a paddock close to the town, after which several battalion movements wore performed. Captains Hamorsley and Toung addressed the men, and the combined force marched into Timaru. The Ashburton and Temuka men returned homo by the evening train.

OPENING OF THE TIMABU WATEBWOBKd. [Bt Thlkobaph,] [feom oitb own cobbbbpohdbkt.J TIMABU, D*o. 16. The formal opening of the waterworks took place this afternoon in the presence of a large number of people. 'The Mayor turned on Che water in the main* street, and the Fire Brigade then attached the hose at different fire plugs and watered the buildings in the vicinity. A banquet was hold in the evening at the Grosvcnor Hotel. In responding to the toast of the health of the Mayor and Borough Councillors, the Mayor read the following statement of the history of the Timaru waterworks In 1870 the Gladstone Board of Works surveyed the Crown lands, and traced the line of the present reserve 2} chains wide, along the whole line as far as the Crown lands went, the cost of this survey being £2BO. On Feb. 18, 1873, a contract was signed by James Fraser to out a rate from the Pareora river to Timaru, and this was carried out at a coat of £3500. Mr Fraser alto excavated the reservoir at a cost of £3OOO, aud the reservoir was pitch lined by Messrs Jones and Peters at a cost of £3500. On D> o. 15, 1876, Mr Wring was appointed Waterworks Engineer, and under his.direction* a sum of £6225 was spent, the present value of the works obtained for that expenditure being value of dam £2OOO, land at reservoir £l7O, fencing at ditto £l6O. On Sept. 12, 1880, when Messrs Dobson and Son were appointed Engineers of the waterworks, there bod been spent on the works, including interest on overdraft, and interest on the rest of plant imported under the direction of Mr Wrigg, £7200. Messrs Dobson found the plant incomplete, and they imported 360 tons of additional pipes, .beside* iron flumes. They have shortened (he race, by cutting two tunnela, and have lined about two miles at the moo with stoneware pip?a, and a considerable portion with concrete. They have superintended and now completed the whole work, at a cost (including plant, in the shape of pipes, Ac., imported by Mr Wrigg) at about £48,000. The Council had bought 89 acres of land, at a oost of £9OO. The reserve granted by the Government contains about 250 acres, the value of which was about £IOOO. The old reserve had to be resurveyed, and this work was done by Mr Thompson, at a coat of £244 Os. The whole oost of the work to the present bad been: Coat of surveying reserve, £2BO I Fraser's first contract, £3500 1 Fraser's second contract, £3000; Jones and Peters' contract, £3500 1 spent under Mr Wrigg, £7200 1 spent under Messrs Dobson, £42,000 t balance of loan, £io2ooj plant on band, £IOOO I total, £70,6«0 " He considered there had been * pert over and above what the work could now -be completed for, as planned and carried out by Messrs Dobson end don, more than £IO.OOO, and interest paid, £BOOO, The value of the whole undertaking he estimated as follows j—Value of reserve, £IOOO I of land bought, £OO0 { actual cost, £40,000 j plant on hand, £IOO0 | value of reservoir, say £3OOO, total, £45,900. The annual interest on the £60,000 loan, with exchange and agency fees, was £4360. A special rate ot Is In the £ gives about £2200, leaving £BOSO to come from the water rate to cover the full interest on the loan. This charge, the Mayor considered, was not a very (earful one { and ho had no doubt that at the people began to appreciate the boon, they would pay the rate very willingly. There hod been many difficulties to contend with, but ho believed the work was without a flaw. Of course undertakings of this kind wore liable to damage by floods, but their success was undoubted, (Applause.) The Mayor then proposed the health of the Engineers, Messrs Jfi. Dobson and ion in a eulogistic speech. They had been most careful in regard to the financial aspect of the matter. They hud had the difficult task set them of working out another man s plant, and of dealing with plant that was not found altogether suitable, but the very best had been done with both. It was an important Krt of the duties of the h ngineers to ep the cost of the works within the sum at the disposal of the Council, and this they hud accomplished, and the actual cost was about £4OOO below the first estimate. One ot the greatest difficulties they hod to contend with was the shingle accumulating at the head of the race j <j«t this difficulty Messrs Dobson had overcome by a msans at once simple and certain, lie hod such confidence in them that ho would advise any Municipality, who required waterworks, to seek the professional services of those engineers. They were men ofJ**peHence, and the whole course of the nogotia-

lions between the Engineers and the Oooaoil had been of the bapptret character. The Kneineers, in acknowledging the toast, spoke in high ferae of the butineselike and courteous manner in which they hod bees treat'd by the Mayor and Borough Oouneil A very pleaeanft evening was spent, and the company broke up at an early hoar.