SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

PORT OF AUCKLAND.

SUNSET : This evening, 0.45. HIGH WATER : This afternoon. 0.1.

STEAMER FOR THE THAMES.

Lady Bowen, 8 o'clock thi3 evening.

ARRIVALS.

Wellington, s.s., Kennedy, from Southern ports. Willie Winkie, schooner, Gundry, from Port Waikato. Cambria, schooner, Smith, from Kennedy's Bay. Swallow, schooner, Bushell, from Pannrure. Ltetitia, schoooer, G. Davies, from Levuka. Aeriel, schooner, Jackson, from Bay of Islands. Cornerang, p.s.,.Chrisp, from the Thames. Macquarie, schooner, James, from Melbourne.

DEPARTURES.

Star of the South, s.s., Holmes, for Napier. Flora Macdonald, cutter, Kenny, for Raglan. St. Kilda, s.s., Flowerday, for AVanganui. Dauntless, schooner, Mceller, for Tauranga. Hero, s.s., Logan, for Sydney and Melbourne. Duke of Edinburgh, p.s., Farquhar, from Russell.

schooner Macquarie, from Melbourne :—ls bales and 5 tanks hops, H. S. Meyers and Co. ; 20 cases vestas, Owen and Grahamj 30 J-chests tea, George Sibbiu ; C hhds. beer, W. Wooley ;11 i-chests tea, order; 10 cases vestas, 25 half-chests tea, B. Tonks and Co. : 200 bags rice, 241 pkgs sugar, Owen and Graham ; 5 cases cocoa, 2 casks coffee, D- Stephenson ; 5 cases yestas, H. B. Morton ; 10 cases sarsaparilla. 1 case confectionery, Kempthorne, Prosser, and Co. : 5 barrels currants, 3 cases vestas, Stone Brothers; 5 cases vestas, 3 cases blacking, 3 cases cocoa, 2 cases chocolate, 100 cases kerosene, 75 J-chests tea, J. Buchanan; 10 tanks malt, R. Whitson and Son ; 30 J-chests tea, 10 cases vestas, 10 cases bitters, 5 cases mustard, 100 cases kerosene, 10 J-casks rum, Lewis Brothers ; 4 cases confectionery, 2 casks and 2 cases blacking, 10 boxes candles, 5 bags almonds, 1 bag carraway. 5 cases milk, 2 cases mustard. 10 cases currants, 25 cases kerosene, 2 cases vestas, 1 case chocolate, 1 pkg pills, 2 cases anchovies, Close Brothers ; 5 cases vestas, 10 I -chests tea, 1 case cocoa, 10 cases currants, 1 bale paper bags, 1 case twine, 2 cases confectionery, Barnett and Levy : 5 cases sarsa parilla. 1 pkg capsules, 229 pockets hops, Ryan.Belland Co. ; C>6 cases sarsaparilla, and 5 do. bitters, Combes and Daldy; IS cases confectionery, 30 half-chests tea. Brown, Barrett and Co. ; 3 bags split peas, 120 bags rice, 5 cases castor oil, ISO ditto Geneva, 5 tanks malt, 200 boxes candles, 150 cases brandy ; 23 ditto old torn, 25 ditto vestas, 40 ditto wine, 10 half-barrels herring, 51 pockets sugar, 5 tanks malt, 10 half-chests tea, 10 cases salad oil, 5 ditto ling, 10 ditto salmon, 5 ditto castor oil, 35 bags salt, Bucholz and Co. ; 3 cases mill goods, 1 do smut machine, 1 ease copper ware, J. S. Macfarlane ; 5 cases vestas, J. C. Morrin ; 7 cases con fectionery, 5 cases mustard, 5 ditto black lead, G. W. Owen ; 5 cases vestas,E. Conipton ; 5 tanks malt, order ; £0 cases castor oil, order ; 1 case canister powder, T. and S. Morrin.—Bucholz and Co., agents. Per Lajtitia, schooner," from i Levuka:—s casks cocoanut oil, 42 sacks maize, 34 bundles bananas, McKenzie ;18 sacks maize, Oxley.—M. Niccol, agent.

IMPORTS.

EXPORTS.

Per s.s. Hero :—For Melboorne: 1 case, L. D. Nathan and Co. ; 18 bags horse shoes, A. L. Kew ; 1 case seeds, C. T. Wren. For Sydney : 3 boxes gold, Bank of New Zealand ; 4 boxes gold, Union Bank of Australia ; 2 bags fungus, L. D. Nathan and Co. ; and several packages short landed at Sydney.—Cruick shank, Smart and Co., agents.

ARRIVAL OF THE MACQUARIE.-NARROW ESCAPE FROM DESTRUCTION OF THE SCHOONER IN A GALE.

The schooner Macquarie, 125 tons, arrived in harbour this morning from Melbourne, after a passage of 24 days. On Sunday last, when off the Poor Knights, she encountered an E.S.E. gale, which drove her back to the Three Kings, carried away galley, with stove and all cooking utensils, and everything moveable on deck; several stanchions and bul warks on the starboard side were also carried away. The wind then changed to N.W., which continued until arrival to-day. During the gale, which lasted until Tuesday night, the vessel was repeatedly on her beam ends, and the hands were constantly at the pumps. The whole of the fresh water in the vassal was damaged by salt water, and rendered useless. All hands were on deck the whole of the time, and have not tasted food since the commencement of the gale, with exception of a few biscuits. Th« sea made clean breaches over the vessel, and Captain James reports that he did not expect the schooner to weather the gale. She is very much strained.

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

For Sydney and Melbourne: City {of Melbourne, 26th inst. For Tahiti: Queen, schooner, Monday. For London : Caduceus, ship,'early. For Honolulu: Nevada, 24th instant. For New York: Ferndale, barque, early ; Queensland, barque, early. For Southern ports: Keera and Phoebe, early; Wel lington, s.s., on arrival of the Nebraska. For Tauranga: Tauranga, schooner, to-day.

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Magellan Cloud, schooner, from Chatham Islands Naomi, ship, from London, sailed 16th November. Wild Duck, ship, from London, sailed 10th December Phoebe, s.s., from Southern Ports. Kalahome, barque, from Adelaide Moa, brig, from Melbourne. (Sailed Feb. 4.) City of Melbourne, s.s., from Sydney. Kevada, mail steamer, from the South Helenslee, ship, from London Frowning Beauty, barque, from Newcastle. Bella Mary, barque, from Hobart Town. Coronet, schooner, from Tahiti Nebraska, mail steamer, from Honolulu, due 27th instant Cyrene, barque, from Lyttelton Whynot, ketch, from Napier Nukulau, schooner, from Levuka

. The s.s. Hero, Captain Logan, left for Sydney and Melbourne, this afternoon, at 12.30 o'clock, with the following passengers:—Saloon to Melbourne : Mrs. J. M. Dargaville, Miss Must, Mrs and Miss Casey, Mr. and Mrs. J. Husler and two children, Mr. and Mrs. Dalrymple and child, Mrs. F. Gardner, Mr. Knox, and Mr. Mose3. Saloon to Sydney: Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Morrin, Mrs. Logan, Messrs. Allison, Dornwell, and Wittowski. Steerage to Melbourne : Mrs. and Misa Smith, Messrs. E. Purchase, Andrew, Smith, S. "Vincent, J. Grant. Steerage to Sydney; Mra McDonald and family, Messrs. F. Hayes, Hunter, Fosbery, D. McCulsky, J. Cartwright, D. Patterson, A. G. McNeill, T. Lewis, J. Bryant. Total, 30. The Nukulau, schooner, 100 tons, left Levuka for Auckland on the 2nd inst. She was purchased at suction the day previously by Mr. Page, of Rewa, for £440. >|The Lsetitia, schooner, arrived at Levuka on the sth Inst., after a passage of fourteen days. The Nevada is not expected to arrive from the South until Saturday next. She will leave the same evening for Honolulu with the English mail. Owing to the boisterous weather the sailing of the schooner Queen has been delayed until Monday next. The Comerang will leave at 2 o'clock to-morrow afternoon for Russell. The schooner Ariel arrived this morning from Russell, with 20 tons coal, 2 tons gum, and 10 passengers. The Lastitia, schooner, Captain Davis, arrived in harbor this morning from Levuka, which port she left on the 12th, and experienced moderate weather until reaching the coast, when she encountered a strong easterly gale. She brings one passenger—Mr Thomp son. Tne Julia Price arrived at Levuka. on the 12th inst. The Janet Grey; schooner, was loading at Levuka for Auckland when the Lsetitia left. The Comerang returned from the Thames this morning. During the gale i,he was anchored to the l«eward of Brown's Island.

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Star Office, Thursday afternoon. Messrs. L. D. Nathan and Co. held to-day, at their Stores, an extensive sale of tobaccoes. The attendance was good, but bidding very dull, owing no doubt to the overstocked market. The following are quotations : —50 3-boxes Scotia tens, lOjd. to lid. per pound. ; 17 |-boxes Venus tens, 15d, per pound; 14 i-boxe3 Reindeer tens, lid. per pound. Mr. L. W. Eaton submitted to full competition, at hi 3 rooms, a quantity of New Zealand produce, &c. The attendance was fair, but bidding ruled low. Maize ■old at 4s. 6d. per bushel; flour; £10 per ton ; butter brought 8 Jd- per pound. At the Brunswick Mart to-day, Mr. S. Jones offered to the trade i large consignment of teas, sugar, tobacco etc The following are the prices realised :—IOO mate finest yellow Mauritius crystals, sd. per lb. ; 100 gun- Hies Company's I. C. sugar, s|d. per lb. ; 100 boxes tea, ex Meteor, Is. 7d. per lb.; 20 boxes raisins, 4|d. per lb. ; kerosene, 2s. 9d. per gallon; prime Canter bury cheese, 6d. per lb.

MINING.

.me iuuowing are me current calls and dividends payable in the companies named below :—

POST OFFICE SHORTLAND-STREET.

Mails will Close as Under : For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m., and to-morrow, at

10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. For Kapanga, etc., per Royal Alfred to-morrow, at

11.30 a.m. For Mahurangi, Matakana, etc., per Lady Bowen, on

Saturday, at 10 a.m. For Gisborne, per Tawera, on Saturday, at 3 p.m. Per p.s. Nevada, to-morrow, 23rd instant, as

follows:—' For Sandwich Islands, British Columbia, United States of America, British, Central and South America, British and Foreign AVest Indies, and Continent of Europe via London, at 2.30 p.m. For United Kingdom via San Francisco, at 2.30 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 1 p.m. Late letters for United States of America, and United Kingdom, bearing a late fee of Od. in addi tion to the postage, will be received at this office till 3 p.m., and by the mail agent on board the steamer up till time of sailing. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per s.s. Wellington, immediately on arrival of p.s. Nebraska. Note.—A post office will be opened at KM Kiriwa, near Hamilton, on Ist March next. Mails will be made up on same day as for Hamilton. S. B. Biss, Postmaster.

The Evening Star. WITH WHICH ARE INCORPORATES The Evening News and The Morning News.

For the cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do."

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1872.

We need scarcely remind our readers that this evening the annual meeting in connection with the Mechanics' In stitute will be held in the hall of the Institute. It is probable that Mr Whitaker will preside, although this is not necessary in accordance with the now celebrated " Eules." Mr Whit aker presides by right at meetings of committee, but not necessarily at the annual meeting. If we are to credit rumour there will be considerable warmth in the discussions, as it is generally understood that a deter mined effort will be made to retain the Institute in statu quo. The number of members said to be qualified is some seventy, so that unusual facilities are afforded to the mono polists. As we maintain that the Institute receiving aid from the Provincial revenue should be a public institution, there can be no doubt that the public have a right to be present at the meeting to-night. The Provincial Council, this year, has given £75 in aid of the Institution, that is, one pound to each " member," for his special benefit; if we are to except the dictum of the present controlling power of the lustitute; and we do riot hesitate to say, that any attempt to continue the exclusive and tyrannical policy of the past, should be resisted to any extent, consistent with the observance of law and order. The in^ fiuence of old fogeyism has damned every public movement and all public Bpirit in Auckland; and we call on the public to take a part in overthrowing the reign of old womanism in conection with what ought to be one of the most flourishing institutions in the colonies. So many haveleftthe Institute in disgust than an unusual dfficulty attends the effort to enlist an interest in its behalf.

"But there is a party determined on reform, and strong enough to effect it, if only backed up by public support. We trust the "greasy mechanics" who have been so superciliously treated will show up this evening. Instead of the doors of the Institute being im pertinently shut against such, there should be a welcome to the reading room and library to every man, even in his work-a-day clothes,'and however begrimed his face with the sweat of honest industry.; and we trust that to-night the Institute will be placed on such a basis, that the humblest in the city will hare equal rights to its benefits with the most wealthy. We had intended to-day to take the names of the candidates and subject them to the test of criticism, but we shall not anticipate the proceedings of to-nigJit, as we hare no doubt the various merits and principles of the candidates will be freely discussed. We are quite aware that the Mechanics' Institute and all its belongings are generally regarded with a species of repugnance, but still we ask the public to come to-night and hear and judge for them selves.

We are reluctantly compelled to hold over till to-morrow, an article on the treatment recently rectived by the Cadet corps of the Auckland College, at the hands of Major G-ordon. We must also apologise to a large number of correspondents, for holding over their letters. Some five or six letters have come to hand to-day, on the subject of the Mechanics' Institute, and the meeting to-night. Wo much regret their exolusion, as they will probably be valueless to»morrow. Moreover, they should have been sent to us some days ago, and not on tho aftornoon of the day of tho annual meeting. The managers of the late dramatic enter tainment which was given to enable them (o pay for scenery foe the Lunatic Asylum entertainments, publish their balance sheet, —a very satisfactory proceeding, and one which ought to be initiated in every simila» event. They desiro also to thank tho Band of the Naval Volunteer*, as well as Mr. Whitolaw, who lent his valuable aid ; and they likewise desire to express their Bense of obligation to the members of the pross, who have always assisted these entertainments. For the first time in many years, there has been ho business transacted at the Polico Court to-day. Not a malefactor had been captured since yesterday morning, and not even a single drunkard staggered into the arms of the police. Curious, rather, that this red letter day should have occurred so soon after the controversy as to the closing of Hay wood's duplicate bar, which is situated under tho very eyes of the police. If any connection can be shewn to exist between tho two series of facts, then teetotallers ought to look into the matter, and redouble their efftnts to shut up every bar in the town.

A complimentary farewell benefit to Ifr. J. P. Hydee will bo given in the City Hall on Saturday evening next, at which Signor Donato —the world-renowned one-legged dancer—will appear in hi« marvellous feat 3, in addition to other well-known talent. This will be the la3fc occasion the public will be enabled to delight in Mr. Hydes 1 versatile and comical acting, as he is about to leave Auckland.

Wo have receded from the Government printer the following papers ; Correspondence relative to Mr. W. L. Buller'g absence to England; Statement of sumi carried to re serve account; The Ciril List Account; Terms of agreement between tho GoTornmont and the Bank of New Zealand, whereby the Bank agrees to advance £200,000 against de bentures, under the Temporary Loan Act 1870; Eeturns of grants takon up and fees paid ; Papers relative to Horowhenua ; Fur ther papers relative to the construction of railways (North Island) ; ditto, South Is land ; Further papers relative to the construc tion of roads (North Island) j ditto, tramways South Island ; Papers relating to the extension of telegraph between Shortland and Fauranga ; Returns of appointments made in the Civil Service in Now Zoaland ; Papers relativo to the transfer of Mr. Buller's collection of New Zealand birds to the Colonial Museum ; Memorandum by Bishop Patteson on tho South Sea labor traffic; Correspondence re lating to colonial industries ; Returns showing amount of money raised by sale of debentures ( &c. ; Return of fees in Crown grants; and memoranda by the officers of the Treasury. A sad occurrence is roported in the Canter bury papers. A few days ago a daughter of Mr. G-eorge Bedford, farmer, Courtenay, aged four years, came to her death in a veiry sad way. From what is to hand, it would appear that Mr. Bedford was harvesting, and two or three of his children tookhim some tobacco. Whilst he was at work they came across a bottle of whiskey in one of the sheave?, and they commenced to drink it—the deceased at the same time eating some of the tobacco When the matter was noted, every effort was made to relieve the unfortunate child, but without avail, and she died the same day. A meeting will be held at Masonic Hotel, North Shore, to-morrow evening at half-past seven o'clock in furtherance of tne views of the Auckland Naval Brigade. All persons qualified to undertake naval matters ought to attend and enrol themselves in this new Brigade which seems to be established on a firm basis, and promises advantages not to be attained in any of the campanies now in existence. We are glad to see that the Music B"all is in process of re-construction. Plans and specifications have been prepared by Mr. Mahoney, to whose great ability as an archi tect the elegance of the recently destroyed building amply testifies, and the foundations of the new building are appearing above ground. We observe that the ship chandlery esta blishment of Mr. Williams is closed to-day and on enquiry, were sorry to find that that worthy old colonist has suffered a severe affliction by the loss of his wife who died last night.

A farewell ball to the captain and officers of H.M.S. Blanche will be given in the Parnell Hall to-morrow evening, commencing at half-past 8 o'clock.

A deputation -waited on tbe Provincial Go vernment a few days ago to urge the necessity of a steam ferry service between Stokes' Point and Auckland. They were informed that tenders for such, a service had already been advertised for.

The Q-eneral Government offer a bonus of £2,500 for the first hundred tons of printing paper produced in the colony by machinery before the 30th June, 1573. The weight of eacli printing ream is to be less than thirty pounds.

The complimentary ball to be given on the 27th, intsant by the members of No. 3 Co. Kifles, is to be held in the Drill Shed instead of the Parnell Hall as at first contemplated.

A charge of libel preferred by Mr. 0. F. Mitchell, against the proprietor of the Thames Advertiser, was dismissed tbe complainant failing to put in an. appearance.

We are requested to state that Mr. James Elder accepts the challange of Signor Donato which appeared in last evening's Stab, for £5 to £20 a-side.

The regular monthly meeting of the Prince of Wales Lodge, 1338, E.C., will lie held this evening at half«past 7 o'clock.

Thore talented artistes Mr. Hoskins and Miss Colville are playing at the Odd Fellows' Hall, Wellington, before large audiences.

Mr. Jame* Lowria is gazetted barbour? master for the port of Kaipani.

The resignation of H. W. Farnall, Esq., of his seat in tho House of Representatives for the electoral district of Ttodnej is gazetted, ani tho seat declared vacant.

The Otago inter«provincial crew and gig arrived at Lyttelton on the 14th instant by the Beautiful Star, and mot with an enthusiastic reception.

Subscriptions in aid of the sufferers by the floods at Greymoulh have been raised in Chriatcburch, to the amount of nearly dEIOO.

The adjourned meeting of the Auckland Co-operative Building and Investment Society will be held at the Young Men's Christian Association Booms, on Monday evening next.

We wish to call attention to the anniver sary tea meeting and soiree in connection with the Wesleyan Church, G-rafton Road, to take place this evening.

Tho Manchester Courier informs the public that more formidable than the kraken, or tho most voracious of sharks, tw% novel monsters of tho deep are juat now cruising in the German waters. Th« Government of the Fatherland, it would appear, have been placing with edged tools, and in their ox periments with torpedoes have, either by c&relonneii or indifference, made the passage of the Baltic an unpleasant pilgrimage. Two of the above-mentioned engines of war have broken from their mooring*, and gone careering, Heaven knows where, unchecked and almost invisible.

A. Southern paper says that "a small parcel of gold, weighing about lOoz., from tho Upper Buller district, was recently pre sented for Bale at ono of the banks in Nelson, when certain appearances led to a suspicion that it wai not all genuine, and it was conse quently handed to Mr. Tatton to be tested, the result being that a littla over half an ounce of spurious metal was discorered. The packer who brought tho gold to town having obtained it in small quantities, is unable to say from whom he obtaiaed the adulterated portion."

SPECIAL TELEGRAMS.

THE CALEDONIAN.—MINE M ANAOEB'S EEPOBT.

" 22nd February, 10.18 a.m. " There is no change in stopes or drives. Beef and water in shaft very favorable for sinking. "S. E. Bichaeds."

EXPORT OF GOLD PER S.S. HERO, FOR SYDNEY.

Shipped by Bank of New Zealand, 3 boxes, containing 5847 ozs. 7 dwts. 18 grains, value, £24,300; shipped by Union Bank of Australia 4 boxes, containing 4168 oz«. 9 dwls., valued »t £11,920.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE'S COURT

THIS DAY.

Before Thomas Beckhatn, Esq., R.M PEOBEBT V. GEOBQE.

Mr Lusk appeared for plaintiff, and Mr Brookfield and Air Beveridge for de fendant.

Mr Brookfield objected to the summons, as the information given in it was too vague to enable defendant to understand anything except that the action was one taken with the view of ousting him from his position as a member of the Waitakerei Highway Board. Defendant could not tell upon what grounds the action was taken, or whom he had to answer.

Mr Lusk replied, urging that the summonses were sufficient, as the Act gives power to issue, on affidavit, a sum mons in such form as the Court may think fit. He-further went on say, that if the matter at issue were not settled speedily, great inconveinence would be occasioned to the district, and in all probability the Government subsidy would not be paid. Mr. Brookfield again urged that the necessary ingredients of a summons were not present, and that the essence of the matter at issue had not been given. He thought the summons was bad in every point and must be dismissed. The Court agreed with Mr. Brookfield and dismissed the summons, ordering a fresh one to be issued.

Mr. Brookfield, as arnicas curice, sug gested that it should be in the form of a rule nisi, calling upon defendant to shew cause why he should not be ousted.

Probert v. George, same v. Bethell, and same v. Smyth, were also dismissed with costs, on the same grounds; and in another against G. Yon der Heyde, of a somewhat similar character, the Court ordered a fresh lummons to be issued. The costi in each case were £3 3s.

LATEST FROM THE FIJIS

By the arrival of the Lsetitia, we have received Levuka papers to the 7th inst., from which we clip the following intelli gence:—

Mr Alfred Edward Manning, who, although a young gentleman of only 24 years of age, ably filled the situation of Attorney-General at Levuka, vras ac cidentally drowned on Sunday, 28th of January, by the capsizing of a small cutter. A vigorous attempt was made by several to save him, but without success. The unfortunate gentleman had been suffering from ill-health, and wa3 proceeding for change of air to one of the adjacent islands, when a sudden squall caused the catastrophe. On the Ist February, a deputation, con sisting of Messrs. McCulloch, Hedemann, Dufty, Hamilton, Brodziak, Cripps, and Levy, waited upon Mr Burt, and presented him with a petition, which was signed by about one hundred people, calling upon him to resign his seat as a member for Levuka, upon the ground of the dissatis faction his public policy has caused, and his unsuitability to their wishes and re quirements Mr McCulloch introduced the deputation, which was simply to present him with the petition. Mr Burt said the matter should have his early consideration and reply- There wero two gentlemen present, whom, under any other circumstances, he should certainly not have received, as he had it on sworn information that they were implicated in a plot to assassinate himself and Mr Woods. The deputation disclaimed any knowledge of such things, and the two gentlemen whom Mr Burt named denied the statement as ridiculous and untrue

Mr McCulloch informed Mr Burt that. a requisition was to be taken round for signature, asking Dr Ryley to resign, and would be presented to that gentleman in the morning.—Mr Burt has since refused to comply with the prayer of the petition ; and in an address to his constituent* closes with the following language : — " Trusting gentlemen that the present clouded state of the political atmosphere will speedily be dispelled by the departure of those whose main object is uncontrolled license, and who, from their vagrant habits and dispositions, can never become good citizens."

A meeting: of the committee of the Levuka Rifle Corps was held on the 2nd February at the Empire Hotel. Some routine business was transacted, and a draft of laws submitted to them. The chairman (Mr M'Culloch) stated that Mr March, H.B.M. Consul, had been waited upon, and requested to become their president, which he had promised to do. He also informed the meeting that they had waited on Mr Woods with reference to the land at the back of the Wesleyan Mission House, where they could get a range of up to at least six hundred yards. Mr. Woods had promised them his assistance in the matter, and that he would do his best to secure the land to them. Wo are glad that this movement is likely to be so well supported, and believe that it cannot fail to be of benofit to the members, as well as to the European community generally. It is a guarantee of safety, if properly and well conducted.

The sittings of the Supreme Court were adjourned on the sth Feb., pending ar rangements of tho appointment of an Attorney-General, in the place of Mr Manning, deceased. Colonel Hamilton is chosen to fill the post. An unwarrantable outrage on the British flag was committed last Sunday by Mr D. W. L. Murray, the Hawaiian Consul and Acting Attorney-General for Fiji. On that day tho cutter Volunteer, a British vessel, was brought into port by a crew which had been despatched after her, there being a claim against her by her late cap tain, and which had not been settled previous to her leaving port. Upon her arrival here Mr Murray proceeded on board, and, lowering the British ansign hoisted the Fijian flag in its place. The price of gold in Levuka is 10 per cent, premium. The Levuka Chamber of Commerce met on the 3rd and oth insts., at which the secretary was instructed to write to the chairman of the Sydney Chamber and ascertain if any Fijian debentures had been floated in the Sydney market. A communication wa3 received from the British Consul intimating his intention of handing over the Post-office to the Fijian Government. Dissatisfaction was expressed at the act, and a deputation instructed to wait on Mr. March in order to induce him to alter his decision.

THE VOLUNTEER CHRONICLE.

THE COLONIAL PBIZE FIRING-

The General Government Gazette of 10th inst., notifies that the firing for the General Government prizes, will take place at'Christchurch on Tuesday, the 2nd April, and the following days.

No 5 Company, Auckland Rifles and Cadets, will meet in the Albert Barracks this evening, at 6"30 p.m., for company drill.

A meeting of Volunteers will be held this evening at the Drill-shed, to consider the report of the committee in reference to the intended rifle match with the Thames Volunteers.

The No 1 Company Navals and Cadets, mustered in force last evening at Fort Britomart for company drill. They are improving. No 2 Company Navals and Cadets, will meet for parade at Fort Britomart, this evening at half-past 7 o'clock. The services of the Opotiki Rifle Volunteers have been accepted by his Excellency the Governor.

PROFESSOR HASELMAYER

The attendance at the Prince of Wales Theatre was better last night, than on the two preceding evenings. The entertain ment is well worth seeing, and ho one should neglect the opportunity of witness ing feats performed by the professor that hare have beenunequalledby any magician. The aerial bell performance last evening was, if possible, more wonderful than the goblin drum. Amongst the various tricks, the professor made hot coffee and milk out of paper shavings, and turned sliced potatoes into sugar. Cups of the beverage were handed round to the audience, and we can fully testify to the excellence of the coffee, having partaken of a cup.

CORRESPONDENCE.

0-We do not hold ourselves responsible for the opinions expressed by our correspondents.

THE MECHANICS' INSTITUTE

To the Editor of the Evening Stab. Sir,—ln reply to " Audi nihil nisi veri tatem" I have little to say, as his remarks savour rather of impertinence than argu ment. He errs in his guess at my identity, which is perhaps well for him. Ido not "dangle a cane." but a cudgel, —let him take the hint. He will find the committee able to-night to hold its own, in spite of all his party can do. The battle will be fought on the meaning of obscure bye laws, and our president, Mr Whitaker, is not likely to decide against his own companions; The committee have been assailed with so much vituperation that they are resolved to retain their seats at the board, even though every member turn against them. For the sake of his peace of mmd, 1 would strongly advise your correspondent and his party to remain quietly at home this evening, and thus save themselves the humiliation of certain defeat. The committee hold them in derision, knowing well the value of a lawyer being their president. Yours, &c, Audi alteeam paste m. [We give insertion to the foregoing im pertinence, as we desire fully to give admission to the representatives of all sides on everj question. The brutal bravado contained is its own best answer. A man capable of speaking of a cudgel in connection wiihthe management of an institution, is not the friend of hi/cause. We trash the " greasy mechanics" of Auckland will be present at the meeting to-ni»ht, notwithstanding the menace. —Ed. s.sr\

THE MFCHANICS' INSTITUTE

To the Editor of the Evening Stab. Sik, —Having been absent from town for a few days, I have only just read the letter which appeared in your columns, '.subscribed " Audi Alteram Partem '; and as lam confident that you have ever been most willing (when both parties in any case'have a public in terest), I venture to offer a few remarks on the subject in question, —tho Mechanics' In stitute, —and although you have pretty well exposed and ventilated its abuses, I cannot allow the very vulgar and pretentious epistle in question to escaps without animadverting on its contents, and which, in view of the election of a commit'ci for it, ia to be hoped its better governmont may bo product ive of some salutary re3U.lt. Your corres* pondent remarks, "The management under take to furnish the subscribers with uso of library and reading*roam, which are offered to those who choose to pay for thorn, and in doiag so, what right have you or other mal contents to desire lectures, classes, &c. ?"

Now, without anatomising the organization of Mechanics' Institutes generally, I venture to enquire from this sapient writer, and, I presume, at the present moment, member of the committee, if he never heard of educa tional classes existing in the various Instituted in England and the colonies; for if he has not, I beg to inform him that in all those that I hare ever known, and which have been exclusively formed for educational ameliora tion and intellectual recreation of the mechaui* portion of the commuuity, I hare never known any (with the exception of that in this city) that has not hadits classes for various branches of education for those who choose to attend and avail themselves of the advantages offered; and, moreover, some of the most interesting lectures I have ever heard have been delivered in Mechanics' Institutes! I therefore consider his arguments on this head to be most fallacious ; and as to his vulgar comparison touching the purchase of your paper and not " expecting an umbrella also," is, despite the want of analogy in the cases, in the worst possible taste, and evidently indicates that he certainly has not bepefitted either by the literary, refiniag, embellishing tastes which the pursuit of studies in the Mechanics or other Institutes is calculated to confer ; and, in point of argu ment, I opino that if your journal was not productive of essential benefit to the com munity by its fearless exposure of this and similar abu9es, and "was not replete with the general news and interesting matter which pervades its columns, and to which its exten sive circulation among all classes is owing, I venture to vaticinate that it would very soon collapse, and come to an untimely end, as, by all the "outward and visible signs," the Mechanics' Institute seems destined to do. You seem, Mr. Editor, to have awakened the virtuous indignation and assumed aristocratic proclivities of your correspondent by your desire to " popularise the institute ;" and this must be considered a very grave offence indeed, for, according to the generally received theory, I was imbued with the idea that Mechanics' Institutes were what their name implied, established for the intellectual improvement of those whom Mr. " Audi Alterarn Parteni" is pleased to designate as " Greasy artisans and loafers" ! Now, in looking over the list of tho committee which has existed for sorno period, I f iil to discover in the antecedent origin or career of anyof it 3 members that which would entitle men to arrogate to themselves this would' bo aristocratic exclusiveness, but alas ! for human nature, and colonial human nature, oftentimes thore are those

" Who forget the dunghill where they grew, And think themselves—the Lord knows who." And I shrewdly suspect that if tho writer in question was diverted of his nom-de-plume ho ■would stand more in the relation of a loafer, and a Government one, than those industrial classes he seems to have such horror of, evi dencev by his desire to exclude and taboo them altogether from engaging the advantages of a society created for their especial benefit. The age of chivalry cannot be extinct, net withstanding the celebrated statesman's assertion to the contrary j for, has not this committee-man taken up the cudgelsm defence of the much abused secretary ? —who, it appears, is rather deserving of credit than otherwise, for, does he not carry out the policy enunciated by his directors ? Now, could anything be more condemnatory of the existing regime than this avowal ? for it is made manifest that the librarian only acts in accordance with the adopted repelling policy; for I was unfortunately always impressed with the belief that of all the uncourteous, disobliging, surly, unaccom modating aery ant 9of any institution, I never met with ono to surpass the present incum bent of that office! Alas! I was wrong in fancying that all his bruaquerie of mannor emanated from his peculiar idiosyncrasy : the. "insolence of office " did not proceed from his owu desire— it was by express command ; and if the committee had possessed more of the amenities of life, this much maligned secretary, this guardian of the intellectual resources of the society, this supposed promoter of its interests, would have been a perfect Chester field in his demeanour! It may probably be useless to indulge in the " pleasures of hope," but as it " springs eternal in the human

breast," I indulge in the anticipation, however vain and illusory it may prove, that on the day of election the guardian genius of tU institution may inspire tho3e entitled to vote ' on tho occasion, and endeavor if possible to rescue it from the clutches of those who have so unfortunately brought it into its present melancholy condition,—that a change will* " come o'er the spirit" of their policy,—that a committee will be appointed in which (hovresco ; refevens) the infusion of "new blood" will predominate, and one that will not pervert its origin and intention by eudearoring to exclude "the greasy artisans," but that they will suc ceed in electing those to manage their affiirs who will do so in a spirit conciliatory to the public who support it, and for whose especial benefit it exists, that they will radi cally change the eating programme by giving peremptory instructions to their ser vant the Secretary to assume that quality which, unfortunately, he does not naturally possess,—that suavlier in modo,— the abnega tion of which virtue has been so detrimental, so fatal to the best interests of the Mechanics Institute. I beg to apologise for tresoassing upon your valuable space trusting that you will palliate, if not wholly forgive the lengthened remarks A Gbeasy Aetisan and Malcgntent.

COMPLIMENT TO CAPTAIN CLARK.

To the Editor of the Evening Stae. Sir, JSTo officer of our Volunteer Forces is more respected and admired than Capt. Clark, of No. 3 Company of the Eifle Brigade; and every Volunteer heartily approves of the steps taken to give a com plimentary ball to the above officer. It is, however, to be regretted that the affair has been placed into the hands of a com mittee whose conduct on many points is deserving of reprehension. It is folly to attempt to give a successful Volunteer ball, and at the same time introduce into it any nice distinctions of the social positions of the men. Such has been the conduct of the committee authorised to carry out the entertainment in honour of Captain Clark. All the officers of the Brigade have been invited, also the cap tains of the various corps in the city ; but the committee have thought fit to exclude from an invitation Adjutant McConnoll, at present attached to the Staff. Mr McConnell was, for many years, lieutenant of 2>To. 3 Company of Eifles ; and has been lately promoted to the position of Adjutant to the Eifle Brigade. Can it be believed that an invitation has been refused him, although the other cftcers belonging to the Staff have been invited ? Is it because Mr McConnell is an honest mechanic, and not of the same social po sition that the committee would arro gate to themselves ? Or is this course of action one of the many follies of the Knight who claims to be the personifica tion of gentility of the Eifle Brigade ? I remain, &c, Non Saltabo.

To the Editor of the Evening Stab. g lK> —.is it true that the police hare been applied to, and instruetad to be present at this Mechanics' Institute meeting to ri iglit, to expel all those who do not bear the proper brand ? I am credibly in formed that it is so, and that the " greasy ■mechanics" are to be.kept in order by the strong arm of the guardians of the law. I am, &c., An Ex-Mehbeb.

[Mr. Broham is not a fool; he is more in» clinod to keep up the dignity of the force, than to expose his men to ridicule.—Ed, E.S.]

YOUTHS' INSTITUTES.

To the Editor of the Evening Stae. Sik, — The necessity of continuing the education of the youth of a country after leaving scholastic establishments, is so evident, especially in the colonies, where but a limited school education can be provided, and where so many by necessity are compelled to forsake their studies even before they have taken full advantage of the facilities afforded them, that if institutions could be founded for the purpose of carrying on this work success fully,' great and beneficent results would follow. Institutions with this object in view have been started, but hitherto their usefulness and efficiency have been re tarded and shackled, either by the want of co-operative power on the part of its patrons, or because the studios carried on have not been sufficiently interesting to fully arouse the vigour and enthusiasm of the youths, for whose benefit they have been instituted. An institute, combining in itself the necessary requisites for both instructing and amusing the young, is one whose success cannot be denied. Such an one is the Islington Youth's Institute. I have before me the report of the Sunday-school Union upon the annual meeting of its members, and as the facts contained in it are very interesting, and also instructive, I transcribe a few of them. The Islington Youths' Institute is eleven years old. Its leading features deserve special notice. They are: The necessity for a separate organisation for youths, as distinct from adults, and the importance of uniting recreation with in struction. The limits of age are now from fourteen to twenty years ; and for youths who have entered on that most critical period, the Institute provides instruction, companionship, and amusement; the three great wants of an elder lad. The committee recognise, if classes are to be attended they must be well taught; if the library is to be used, the books must be worth carrying home ; if you want large audiences, you must provide good lectures and entertainments. Accordingly, there is a comfortable room where the members can meet, and read or write, or engage in a friendly game at chess or draughts, tactics, or spellicans. Newspapers and periodicals lie on the tables of the reading room ; and here the lads may range from the Times or Athenmim, to Punch or Fun, and from Good Words to the Youth's Play-hour or Boys Own Maga~ zinc. These privileges are. accessible every evening of the working week from 6.30 to 9.30, during seven months of the year. During the session various lectures and entertainments are given by friends of the institute ; while musical and elocutionary entertainments, and a discussion class, are snstained by the members. We fancy that many a warm friend of young people will be ready to ask in anxious tones " But what is tlje

THE EVENING STAR, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1872

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Matawai .. ., ..003 City of Aberdeen .. 0 0 3 Otago .. .. ..010 Conquering Hero .. 0 10 Guildhall .. ..003 American Eagle .. 0 0 6 C'oromandel Excelsior.. 0 0 6 Morning Light .. ..003 Sir Walter Scott ..010 Bank of Tokatea .. 0 0 S Felix 0 0 0 Hope of Corom&udel ..002 Unicorn 0 0 3 Thames Ga» .. ..026 ChrUtchurch .', ..003 Coronet .. .,010

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T OOSGBAVE & C O.'S O MONSTER SALE of DRAPERY and CLOTHING is now on. They have a tremendous lot of Bargains to offer to the public. The Largest stock in New Zealand to choose from. OLSON'S TOMATO SAUCE. rr\HE immense Succe&s attending the intro- L duction of this new local industry will alone testify to the bigh estimation in which it is held. During the last year the proprietor was scarcely able to supply the large demand, and has in consequence made extensive alterations and additions to hia Factory, so as to be enabled to keep the market well supplied. No one who values health and appetite should be without a supply of this really health-restor ing and agreeable condiment. Sold everyw here in Bottles with the name of H. OLSON on wrapper and stamped on bottle and stopper. Auckland, 10th February, 1872. T CATER (late Ceombie's), ROYAL J • PHOTOGRAPHIC G ALLERY, Queen street, Auckland, has much pleasure in in forming his friends and the public generally that he has purchased the Photographic Business so long carried on by Mr Crombie ; and having secured the services of Mr Crombie's late Manager, he feels warranted in stating that they will receive every ohvlfcy and attention, as wel) as first-class and artistic portraits at his hands, and that no pains will be spared to give entire satisfaction. j C. also wishes to inform the Ladies that arrangements are being made for taking nstantaneous Portraits of Children. _O>K f\f\f\ WORTH of GROCERIES d*Q 9 \J\J\J and PROVISIONS to be sold at Cost Price, previous to our Removal to our New Central Premises, next to the Southern Cross office, Queen street. Families, Storekeepers, and Coaoters, are invited to call at their old establishment, BARNETT AND,LEVY'S NOTED RED HOUSE, next to the Theatre Royal. GKf\f\ WORTH of MUSIC and SONGS set to MUSIC to bo given away by F. H. Lewissok, Jeweller, Queen stroefc. For each £1 worth of Jewellery purchased at Establishment, the same amount of Songs or Music given in,—F. H. Lewisson, Queen street. RELINQUISHING BUSINESS. llgir FINAL NOTICE. R. HOBBS WILL offer for the next Eight Weeks, (unless disposed of during that lime), the Whole of his very large Stock of Genera and Household Drapery antl Men's and Boya Clothing, at very low prices. February 12, 1872.