SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

PORT OF AUCKLAND.

BTTNSET : This evening, 6J 8 HIGH WATER: This evening, 10.15; to-morrow morning, 10.87

STEAM TO THE THAMES.

This evening, Lady Bowen, at twelve o clock ; to-morrow morning, Golden Crown, at ten o'clock

ARRIVALS.

Comerang, p. 5.,, Chrisp, from Northern ports

DEPARTURES.

Nil.

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

PROJECTED For Southern Ports : Comerang p.s,. Friday For San Francisco : Nebraska, mail steamer, 28tn insi For Whitianga, Mercury Bay, and Tauranga: Southern Cross, s.s., 23id inst For London : City of Auckland, ship, in November; Queen Bee, ship, in December For New York : Coronilla, barque, early For Sydney and Melbourne: Hero, s.s., to-morrow; Wonga AVonga, 6th December ■ For Southern ports, via Napier: Dacotah, mail steamer, about Ist prox i For Hokianga : Dido, cutter, to-day

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Gladiateur, barque, from Liverpool. Sailed sth Polar BStar, ship, from New York. Sailed 10th July July , , Daeotah, mail steamer, from Honolulu Agnes Muir, ship, from London. Sailed 4th Sept. Harvest Home, ship, from London. Loading Caduceus, ship, from London. Loading Prosperity, schooner, from Melbourne Amateur, barque, from Sydney Ayr, barque, from the Mauritius Julia Price, schooner, from Levuka Hercules, schooner, from Newcastle Southern Cross, schooner, from Sydney Dauntless, schooner, from Tahiti Success, schooner, from Levuka Merlin, schooner, from Leviika Frowning Eeauty, barque, from Newcastle Effle Meikle, schooner, from Lyttelton The agents of the ship Helen Denny having reported her at the Customs, request con signees to pay freight and pass entries, and take delivery of their goods in terms of bills of lading. The p.s. Coomerang arrived this morning with a general cargo and several passengers.

COMMERCIAL.

MINING. The following are the current calls and dividends payable in the companies named below :— £ s, d. CAXLS South British Fire and Marine Insurance 0 5 0 Nov 20 Watchman .. .. 0 10 Nov 24 Red Queen .. .. 0 0 6 Nov 20 Golden Eagle .. 0 0 2 Nov 2G Euby 0 10 Nov 27 Crown Prince .. 0 0 6 Nov 28 Coromandel Tunnel 010 0 Dec 2 Bird in Hand .. 0 10 Dec 2 Rajahmahal .. .. 0 0 2 Dec 2 North Devon.. .. 0 0 6 Dec 2 Flagship .. .. 0 0 3 Dec 4 Thames Gas .. .. 0 5 0 Dee 14 Durham Ox .. .. 0 0 6 Dec 30 MEETINGS. S^6'! Golden Point, Company's offlc& s -^ ir''" r^ffiS^^^^ QU6en BtrCet -^ttßoTingaTGrahamstown, 20th November Nil Desperandum, Mr R. Home's office, Queen street, Auckland, noon, 27th November Bird in Hand, Grahamstown, 27th November Oriana, Company's office, Queen street, 3 p.m., 28th November New Golden Pah, Company's office, Queen street Auckland, 2 p.m., 27th November Turn of the Tide, Company's office, 44, Queen street, Queen street, 29th November Chritchurch, Grahamstown, 2nd December Thames Gas, Company's office, Insurance Buildings, Auckland, 9th December, 2 p.m. Auckland Permanent Co-operative Building Society, Society's office, Wyndham street, 7.30 p.m., 17th December

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under :— For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m., and to-morrow, at 10.30 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. Per s.s. Hero, on Thursday, 21st inst., asunder:— For India, China, Mauritius, Mediterranean ports, and Continent of Europe, at 12.30 p.m. For Australian Colonies, at 1.30 p.m. For United Kingdom, via Suez, and Southampton (for letters specially so addressed), at 1.30 p.m. For United Kingdom, via Brindisi, at 2 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 11.30 a. m. Late letters for Sydney, Melbourne, and United Kingdom, via Southampton, bearing a late fee of 3d and 6d in addition to the postage will be received till 2 p.m. For Kawau, "Wangarei Heads, Mangapai, &c, per Challenger, to-morrow, at 4.30 p.m. For Russell, "Wangaroa, and Mongonui, per Comerang, on Friday, at noon. For Coromandel, per Royal Alfred, on Friday, at 2 p.m. Per p.s. Nebraska, on Thursday, 28thinst., asunder— For Sandwich Islands, British Columbia, United States of America, British Central, and South America, British and Foreign West Indies, and Continent of Europe via England, 10.30 at a.m. For United Kingdom, via San Francisco, at 10,30 a.m. For money orders and registered letters and newspapers, at 9 a. m. »** Late letters for United States of America and United Kingdom, bearing a late fee of 6d in additien to the postage, will be received at this office till 11 a.m., and by the Mail Agent on board the steamer up to time of sailing. N.B.— The Chief Post-office has been removed temporarily to Fort Britomart. S. B. Bias, Chief Postmaster.

The Evening Star: WITH WHICH ARE INCORPORATED The Evening News and the Morning News.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1872.

For the cause that lacks assistance, For the wronjs that need resistance, For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do.

'£/, 1872.

„ -'urb'und regret pervades A FEEMNftf^ay at the disaster of this jOlftning. The losses of private suf ferers will be borne by themselves and the underwriters, but the destruction of the fine pile of public buildings in Fort and Shortland-streets is a public calamity. It is sorry consolation to say what might have been done, and how this calamity might have been averted. The ruin is there, and senti mental expressions of regret will not restore the building or repair the loss. The calamity will be all the more severe from the utter inability of the province to restore the buildings, and it would almost appear as if the elements of Nature had com bined with the political and social forces at work to hurry Provincial institutions on to ruin. But while giving expression to the general and sincere feeling of regret at this great misfortune, it is impossible to suppress a feeling of indignation at the bungling which has made this fire such a heavy calamity. We do not attempt to decide between the rival Fire Brigades, butthatthe standing feud should beleft to be fought out in the face of a raging conflagration is a burning disgrace. Of all the centres of chaotic govern ing authorities, Auckland is facile princeps. From the highest to the lowest there is no line of separation ; no subordination of authority ;no division of duty. Every one seems to be charged with everything and re sponsibility is nowhere. Jack is as good as his master, and throughout our multitudinous authorities one man is as good as another, and in time of emergency and in hie own opinion a great deal better. The store of the Messrs Isaacs, standing by the side of smoking ruins and opposite to the ruin of the Government buildings, offers a stern though silent protest against that ! confusion of authority which is our disgrace. A few men steadily guided by an intelligent head saved that storefrom the jaws of the furnace, whereas to the other side of the street the flames leaped over and licked the slates into a blaze, while Colonial, Provincial and Municipal authority stood below mu tually paralysed, and rival fire brigades with their several sympathisers strug gled as to which could best prevent the other from rendering any assist ance. We do not say who is to blame but in view of the terrible loss that has been sustained, justice and public safety demand that there should be the most searching inquiry, and that the crime of this negligence and wil ful inaction in the moment of urgent danger should be laid on the proper shoulders. It is quite apparent that no' adequate provision is made to make even the merest effort to strug gle with a fire in the city. No ladders, no appliances, no organization, no au thority, no anything which is consi dered everywhere else to be absolutely requisite in face of conflagration. And yet, with the knowledge of all this, our countless authorities have all rested in imaginary security. JN"or must we overlook the unpar donable negligence which has left these public buildings uninsured. Whatever may be the custom regard ing Government buildings in general, in no way bears on this case. Where the revenue and resources of a country are prepared to make good any such loss without any preceptible pressure on the community, a country may

become virtually its own insurer. But what will restore the buildings now de stroyed ? Or how long are we to have to endure the inconveniences entailed by this disaster ? And there is another point to which this public calamity will very forcibly turn public attention. We may not approve of everything in the manner in which the City Council has gone about obtaining a supply of water to the city. But we cannot close our eyes to the facb that there has been swallowed up by fire in this event of one single night as much property as would, if turned into its equivalent value, have provided a most extensive supply of water for the city. Any one that has ever seen the play of water on a burning house from such a system of water supply as exists in Melbourne, for example, will have little hesitation in believing that if we had had such an effective system in Auckland this morning the fire would have been confined to a single building, and the loss would have been merely nominal. It is such a catas trophe as this falling on a community that compels it, however reluctantly, to action, and though it is deplorable that we require the bitter and the costly teachings of experience to rouse to action, it is probable that the calamity of this morning will not be all loss to the community.

It seems almost invidious to particularly mention the names of those who, this mom ing distinguished themselves, where so many laboured so gallantly. But there are incidents which cannot be overlooked. Captain Williams, of the Queen Bee, and his crew showed what discipline and courage combined can do. They formed a line of buckets from the sea to McArthur, Shera, and Co.'s store, and worked as if to the boatswain's whistle. It was this that sup plied the water that saved this establishment. As for Mr William Swancou, we have heard as much praice of his fearless courage and cool deliberate persevering working, as should keep his ri 3 ht ear tingling andhotforanv- In Fort-street and in fehortl^ j q was the foremostiin Jlgf^n g arm and cool case, we are toUL^^ of auy the brain, mcij!£ e con Hagiation is due. stay*"" We ask the aid of our readers in the solu tion of the following difficulty. Stakes have been laid on it, we are informed, to the extent of £10, and the decision has been submitted to the arbitrament of the editor of the Evening Star. We feel the solemn responsibility of the occasion, and in our perplexity we sum mon our readers as a jury. We shall feel exceedingly obliged if any and every one will give us his, and her, and their opinion on the subject, with reasons and arguments an nexed, whereupon we shall deliver our deci sion. The question for the jury is : "Does one spot on a dog constitute a spotted dog ; or does it require two spots or more ?" The news of the fire this morning has been published «arly down South, notwith standing the injury to the instruments and wires in the local office. As agents for the Anglo-Australian Press Association we de piited a message to Mercer station at four o'clock. On one of Mr. F. Quick's fleetest studs the message reached the station in four hours and five minutes, and was promptly despatched to all the Southern stations. To the swiftness of the steed and the zeal of a picked rider—Mr John Brown —this highly creditable feat is due, and the news has reached the South quite as early as if the fire had not come so near hdmo to the telegraphic machinery. Mr. Cx. S. Graham, inspector of the Nor wich Union, desires us to thank Mr. W. Swanson for the prominent part he took and effective services in saving Isaacs' store. The Eev. D. Bruce re-delivered his inter esting lecture on " Stonewall Jackson," in the Whau Hall, on Monday evening, to a large and attentive audience. The Rev Mr Hamilton, the resident Presbyterian minister, presided, and after a few appropriate remarks he called upon the choir to sing " Gentle Shepherd, tell me where." Several other melodies were given in the course of the evening, and this, the first lecture that has been delivered in this district, met with great favour from an audience numbering at least 120 persons. Those old favourites in this city, Mr Hos kins and Miss Colville, are making a suc cessful run at Dunedin in various characters. At the close of their Southern engagements they will proceed to California. The meeting of the Auckland Rowing Club at the Waitemata Hotel was well at tended last night, near upon forty members being present. Mr Yon der Heyde occupied the chair, and announced the fact that they were now in a position to pay off a consider able portion of the club debt. Several new rules were passed, new members elected, and the aspect of the club generally is en couraging. We observe that a Co-operative Society has been established at Otahuhu, and a meet will be held to-morrow evening in the local hall for the purpose of explaining the prin ciple of the society and for the enrolling of new members. Although the machines of the Telegraph office were saved through the efforts of two of the assistants this morning, the batteries and all the apparatus were destroyed. Mr Sheath, Inspector of Telegraphs, and Mr Lusher, his assistant, set promptly to work, about three o'clock, and so extemporised apparatus that the office was able to send a faint message through at eight o'clock, and has been enabled to transact the business of to-day as if nothing unusual had occurred. A meeting will be held at Mr Pugh's house, Muddy Creek, on the 23rd instant, «o take steps for the erection of a school in that district. The inhabitants are desired to at tend upon the occasion. A very interesting lecture was delivered on i Monday evening in the school-room at tached to the Rev Mr Hemus' church, One hunga, by Mr Eastwood. The subject, " The pleasures and advantages of Literature," was listened to with attention by a consider able number of listeners. A meeting will be held on Thursday even ing next, at the Old House at Home, for the : purpose of forming a Seamen's Protection , Fund. The Thames Accident Relief Fund is, we hear, doing a great deal of good in the dis tricts of the goldfields. We learn from a statement in the Thames Advertiser that this fund is affording relief, in cases of acci dent, from £9 to £10 a week. Such institu tutions are excellent in their way, and are minently entitled to practical consideration. Lovers of books and students in theology are reminded that Messrs Cochrane & Son will sell at their rooms, to-morrow, a large number,.of theological and. scho.la,at;c works,

POLICE COURT.

THIS DAY

(Before P. A. Philips, Esq., R.M.)

DHONKENNESS.

Two men were charged with drunkenness and fined 5s and costs.

VAGRANCY. Maria Lilly was charged under the Va grant Act of 18G5 as being a reputed tniel and disorderly person. She pleaded guilty. _ His Worship reminded the prisoner that on a former occasion she had promised to leave the colony. Prisoner replied that she intended to do so but was interrupted, or she would have emi grated to the Thames. Prisoner being a very bad character^ ms Worship sentenced her to three months im prisonment with hard labour' A CONVICTED THIEF. John Pepper was charged under the Vagrant Act as being a reputed thief, anil having been found in a place of public resort on the Queen-street wharf for dishonest purposes. His Worship asked the prisoner what he had to say for himself. He replied that he was one of the hardest worked men in Auck land His Worship thought so, but for the Government. It was proved that the prisoner was a very bad character. He was therefore sentenced to six months' imprisonment with hard labour. . John McMahon vas charged with vio lently assaxilting Jemima Morgan, living_m Edwardes-street, on the night of the 18th instant. . , Q The prosecutor, a young woman oi 18, with a deeply discoloured eye, deposed that the accused broke open her door on the mgh; in question, stopped there all night, ant struck her on the face. She was a married woman, but not living with her husband. The prisoner had been in the habit of visiting her. He pleaded guilty and, as shown, was a very bad character—a companion of thieves and unfortunate women. His Worship sentenced him to two months with hard labour, at the expiration of which term prisoner must find two sureties in £2o each, and himself in £50, to keep the peace for three months. A STRAYING COW. Terence Brady was charged under the Police Act with allowing his cow to stray on the 15th instant in the Kyber Pass Road. Fined 10s and costs. BREACH OK THE LIOBKSING ACT. Sarah Spire was charged under the Licen cing Act with selling alcoholic liquors on the 14th instant in a house occupied by her in Queen street, without being duly licensed for that purpose. Fined £5 and costs. HENDERSON AND MACFARLAXE V. KELLY. Claim £15 11s 3d. Mr J. B. Russell appeared for plaintiff. Mr W. L. Rees for defendant. In this case the plaintiffs sought to recover damage from Oapt. John Kelly, master of the Bulwark, for loss sustained by certain goods under a clean bill of lading. Mr Rees stated that the damage did not come within the bill of lading, that the bales of paper were properly stowed at the time of starting from the Mauritius, and that all due care had been taken of the goods, and that the damage might have been caused by the overstraining of the ship in the terrible squalls of September.

ROYAL ITALIAN OPERA.—"LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR."

The Royal Italian Opera Company opened for their first night at the Choral Hall, Symonds-street, last evening. There was not so large or so brilliant an attendance as we should have wished to have seen, but this is no doubt to be accounted for in many ways. People had hardly realised the fact that the opera company, so long expected, had actually arrived ami were performing. Others probably objected to the distance at which the Choral Hall is situated, and many would perhaps prefer other operas to the one chosen for the opening night. The performance was nevertheless a brilliant success, the orchestra was efficient, the chorus has been materially strengthened, both with male and female voices, and many great treats are yet in store for lovers of the lyric drama. Signora Coy was very graciously received on appearance, and met with most unqualified success, not only in the brilliant air which opens the scene Trith Edgardo in the first act, but also throughout the entire opera. Her singing of the pretty solos, first' in the duet " Verrano ate sulT aura" (My sighs shall o'er the balmy breeze), and in the duet with Enrico, " Soffriva nel pianto, languianel dolore," (My sufferings and sor rows) won well-merited applause ; and in the celebrated finale to the second act Signora Coy's energy helped largely towards the success of the scene, and the hearty re call which awaited the singers at the fall of the curtain. The music suits her admirably, and in the mad scene she made the best pos sible use of the opportunity offered. In this scene, which commences with the solo •'ll dolce suono," the music is extremely trying; but Signora Coy not only sur mounted every difficulty for which the composer is accountable, but introduced cadences* and ornaments that only the most finished executant could attempt. She sang charmingly the well-known melody, " Spargi di qualche pianto," and was called on at the end of the scene. In her betrothal, Signora Coy's acting was remarkably earnest and forcible ; and her Lucia may be described as a very perfect effort, both as regards singing and acting. The concerted piece, " Chi mi Fena" was encored according to custom. Signor Coy was Edgardo. The first scene, in which occurs the duet " Sulla tomba" with Lucia, was sufficient to show the tenor's power. The duo " Verrano ate sull'aura" increased the enthusiasm, and at the end of the act Signor and Signora Coy were called before the curtain. Signor Coy gave the 11 malediction" with exceptional power and energy, and his acting throughout the scene was effective in the highest degree. The last scene is one of the most effective ever written for a tenor, and here Signor Coy more than realised all sanguine expecta tions. His portrayal of Edgardo's despair and grief was most touching, and he gave the solo " Fra Poco" and the final air " Fa che a Dio Spiegasti" with a pathos and expression we have rarely heard equalled. Signor Coy has greatly improved in voice since we last heard him. Signor Coliva was n very good Enrico. Indeed we do not re member to have witnessed so fine a dramatic representation. Signor Benso appeared as Arturo and sang with generally good effect though with perhaps some coarse ness of tone. Signor Dondi made an excel lent Raimondo; it was a perfect piece of acting. Signora Tournerie, as Amia, had nothing specially in her part wherewith to distinguish herself. The chorus was careful and efficient, and the band equally so. This evening another of Donizetti's operas will be produced, namely Lucrezia Borgia, in which Signora Zenoni will appear as the heroine ; Signor Dondi, as II Ducca ; Signor Rosnati, as Gunaro ; Signora; Favas, as Gubetta ; Signor Benso, as Riistighello j and. Signora Kibaldi, as Maffeo Oraiui,

TELEGRAPHIC.

FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.

GRAHAMSTOWN.

This day.

The South Devon haa crushed 17 tons for

6 ounces. The Standard tribute crushing of 7 tons

gave 13 ounces. The City of London has nice gold showing in the reef to-day.

The Central Italy lode is improving in size ; gold visible. The Golden Crown has intersected tri. buters' leaders in the cross cut at the bottom level. They got gold in the first shot lode 18

inch es

The Cure is retorting. Had over 400 ounces

amalgam. The Long Drive has 331 ounces of amalgam oh hand for six weeks' crushing.

The Bank of New Zealand trubute got 43 lbs. specimens this morning, making 108 lbs on hand. They crush these and 25 ton general next week.

TAURANGA.

This day,

The Southern Cross arrived at five last night. She will sail for Auckland to-night.

There was a small meeting of native a yesterday to meet Clarke, and to approve of Government policy, and a large attendance this morning to receive flour.

(PER ANGLO-A USTRALIAN PRESS TELEGRAPH AGENCY. I

WELLINGTON.

Yesterday,

An enquiry into the wreck of the City of Newcastle was held to-day. The evidence having been taken, the decision of the Court holds that extreme negligence was shown by the captain in not paying sufficient attention to the distance run, and rate of speed ; also' in not making proper allowance for the tide, in consequence of which the ship's position was entirely mistaken when the light was seen. This appears to have been the chief cause of the disaster. Leaving the deck in charge of Bowie r, who had never served articles before, for two hours before the ship struck, was an act of rashness calculated to in volve most dangerous consequences, although nothing in the present case showed that the disaster was in anyway brought about by him. The master's certificate has been cancelled. This day, 2 p.m. The Parliament is further prorogued unii* the ISth of February. This day. A new payable seam of coal has been discovered in good preservation in an inlet. A terrible explosion occurred at McLeod's soap works. The fragments went through and carried away a portion of the roof. A man was seriously injured, and a boy had his arm broken. The General Government have instructed the Agent-General to offer free passages to suitable emigrants from Britain. The Nebraska fired a salute in honor o General Grant upon receiving the news of nis re-election. The Naval Brigade also fired nineteen guns.

LYTTELTON.

Yesterday. The barque Architect Renaud arrived from the Mauritius with 300 tons sugar.

DUNEDIN.

Yesterday. Mr Tolmie has not yet succeeded in forming his Provincial Executive, and will have great difficulty in doing ao. The Superintenden has refused to call the Council together in consequence and until the difficulty is over come.

THE SHARE MARKET.

J. M. LENNOX'S REPORT.

There is some improvement in business. Caledonian and Cure shares are in good demand- Cures sold at 305., closing firm with buyers at 31s. Caledonians sold at £15 to £16, closing firm with buyers at £16. Sellers, £16 10s. Enquiries for Alburnia, Inverness and Tookey shares.

We have been requested to make the following correction :—" Sir, —In your report in Friday's paper of the proceedings of the R.M. Court, the case Meyers and Co. v. McCrae and Goodacre, you make it read Goodacre v. McCrae, which is wrong ; and in Saturday's paper you make it read Meyers and Co. v. Goodacre. It should be M eyers and Co.|v. McCrae and Goodacre."—J. Good- AORE.

It affords us very great pleasure to learn that the Messrs Isaacs have taken the most prompt and satisfactory way of marking their appreciation of the brave and generous conduct of those who aided in saving the pi'emises of these gentlemen from destruc tion. They feel it would be like an insult to offer payment for services that were ren dered in the heroic spirit that prompts men to gallantly risk their lives for others' good. They have accordingly placed in our hands the following sums for distribution to pur poses in which all feel an interest. To the two Fire Brigades, each £7 7s j to the Orphan Home, Destitute Children's Asylum, Ladies' Benevolent Society, the Old Men's and the Old Women's Refuges—to each £3 3s. We hope the generous conduct of the Messrs Isaacs will be imitated by those who at any time may be similarly circum stanced.

A musical entertainment, consisting of "service of song," from Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress will be given this evening in the Sheridon-street Primitive Methodist Chapel, commencing at half-past seven o'clock. The members of the Essay and Discussion Class held a social meeting last evening at the Young Men's rooms, Wellesley-street, Mr Eastwood occupied the chair. The secre tary read the report of the past session, which was very satisfactory. Mr Fraser was re-elected secretary, and Messrs Main and Cass members for the coming session. Several essays, poems, anecdotes and speeches were given by members, and. the utmost good humour prevailed.

ALARMING CONFLAGRATION.

TOTAL DESTRUCTION

OF THE

CUSTOM-HOUSE, POST-OFFICE, ANP

PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES,

BUCHOLZS' BOND, SCHERFF'S STORE, AND PACIFIC INSURANCE OFFICES BURNT TO THE GROUND.

NARROW ESCAPE OF BANK OF AUSTRALASIA.

£50,000 WORTH OF PROPERTY

DESTROYED

ONLY £15,000 INSURED.

FEARFUL DAMAGE,

At a few minutes before midnight a fire broke out in this city that for magnitude and distructiveness, has been unparralled in Auckland. The fire was first discovered by Mr Moyle, the dining-rooms keeper, who saw smoke issuing from Fort-street. He at once gave the alarm to the housekeeper of the New Zealand Insurance Buildings, and the fire-bell, attached to the building, was sounded ; this was taken up by the Wellesley street bell, followed by the other fire-bells m the town. In the meanwhile Detective Termhan proceeded to the scene of the fire, and found that the inside of Mr Scherff s store was in a blaze. An attempt was made to burst in the door, which failed to yield, and a window was smashed. It was discovered that a quantity of flax and tow. stored in the building, was completely on fire. Nothing could be done at the moment to arrest the flames, which spread with alarm ing rapidity and communicated with the Pacific Insurance Company's office on the west side, and Bucholz's store and Webb s bond on the east. The engines arrived on the scene of the fire within half an hour from the first alarm, under the charge of Fire Inspector Asher (Volun teer Brigade) and Fire Superintendent Mat thews (Fire Brigade). The engines were promptly set to play, the hose having been laid on with alacrity. Mr Kitchen was one of the first on the ground, and had the water laid on in readiness. The hydrant belonging to Thornton, Smith, & Firth's mills was laid on simultaneously with the engines, and everything was clone in endeavouring to subdue the flames. At 12 o'clock dense volumes of smoke rolled up Queen-street, rendering the atmosphere suffocating. It at one time became unbearable, and the few people who had already collected were forced to retrea*. The fire, however, soon broke out furiously, and it became apparent that the consequences would be alarming in the extreme. A stiff breeze was blowing from the north-east, which fanned the flames and carried myriads of sparks and burning flakes through the air, threatening wholesale destruction to the numerous buildings in the vicinity. At half - past twelve the whole block of buildings known as Webb's block was ablaze,° and Messrs E. and H. Isaacs' store in imminent jeopardy. Mr Moyle, on giving the alarm, had not remained idle; jumping into a cab, he hurried to Mr H. Isaacs residence, and acquainted him of the danger. Messrs Isaacs were soon on the spot; and thanks to their own self-possession and prompt action not only their own large and valuable stock was saved, but the further spread of the devastating element checked in that direction. To their exertions the Metropolitan hotel, and probably all the adjoining buildings in the block were saved ; such as was portable was removed from their store into the street. In the meantime a small hydrant was brought into service, and a dozen men employed by them to keep the roof of their building constantly soaked. Several times did the fire take pos session of the building, but each time the flames were subdued. The roof is consider ably damaged and the rafters of the upper storeys burnt out of their sockets. The heat was intense, and the burning flakes flying around rendered the work of the fire men and Volunteers engaged highly dangerous. Often the hose had to be turned on the men to keep their clothes from igniting. Large crowds of persons had by this time assembled and taken up positions in various parts where a view could be obtained of the burning mass, their presence in many instances being a great hindrance to the firemen. The hose was constantly trod upon, and the flow of water checked; great difficulty was experienced in this manner. Inspector Broham, with a body of police, were promptly on the spot, and rendered efficient service. At a quarter to one an alarm of fire was raised in another direction, and it was discovered that the roof of Kelly's Dining Rooms, at the corner of West Queen - street, had be come ignited. The prompt action of Detective Ternahan and one or two others, who, with a few buckets of water, saved the spread of the fire in this direction, or the consequences'would have been fearful to conr template. The fire here of course occurred from the burning flakes which were being wafted by the winds in all direction. In Mr Scherff's store was stored about 20 tons flax and tow and a small quantity of gum, and the fire| is believed to have originated from this, although the cause cannot be accounted for. Mr Sherff left the premises at five, and his clerk locked up at eight, believing all to be safe. In Mr BuchoLz bond were several casks of spirits ; and as each of these exploded the sounds appeared like the booming of artillery. Many attributed the explosions to gunpowder, and fearing worse results fled, but returned as their fears abated. By far the most serious part of the occurrence has yet to be related, namely, the total destruction of the Custom House, Telegraph-office, Post-office, Pro vincial Government offices, together with several other offices belonging to Government officers, including the offices of the Central Board of Education, Record Office, office of Inspector of Weights and Measures, Waste Lands Office, office of Commissioner of Crown Lands, • Post-office, Savings' Bank, and minor other offices. The fire in this valuable block of buildings occurred in this wise, and be it recorded with shame. The sparks from the buildings opposite the Custom-house in Fort-street lodged upon the roof of that building, and the increasing heat caused the lead on the roof to melt, whereby fire waa com municated to the rafters. Had the com mon precaution been taken to station a couple of men on the roof of the Govern ment block they could, with a few buckets of water, have preserved the building harm less ; but such was not done, although the inhabitants of the adjacent houses were already on the alert, and prevented their own buildings from igniting by laying wet blankets over the roofs. The doomed block was first observed on fire close under the chimney stack; then in the western gable over the Operator's room of the Telegraph Office. Frantic efforts were made by a devoted^Utfew to reach the roof with the hoae» The "Pariah

quirts " owned by this great city were not powerful enough to eject a stream of water tiigher than the first-floor windows, and no ladder over about fifteen feet in height was procurable. Three or four m^ mounted the verandah attached to Cochrane'g buildings, and from there endeavored to reach the burning parts. Many attempts to raise a ladder were fruitless, and the idea was abandoned for a space. In the meantime nothing beyond a little smoke was observable thus allaying the mind into false security' A member of the Hobson Company managed' to raise a ladder from the verandah onto the roof of Cochrane's buildings, and mounted the same. He called down several times for, the firemen to pass up the hose, and had his request been complied with the fire might even then have been mastered. No further notice than telling him to mihd*T\>. own business was taken; and after ■wait *W* for nearly a quarter of an hour h^/ descended. This is to be regretted, as at' the time of his ascent the fire might has been extinguished with a bucket of water. The result shows the want of proper organism with the Fire Brigades. The rival brigades clashed at times togetherj and unseemly squabbles took place that at such a time is very reprehensible. The fire now broke out with redoubled fury, and it was at once seen that the Custom-house -was doomed, but it was not anticipated that it had made such fearful strides as was deve loped immediately after by the whole block of the noble building reaching into Shortland. street being in a mass of flames. A branch hose had a few minutes before been carried up the staircase, and the engine set to play ; but it was too late, the fire had gained too great a hold of the building. At this juncture Messrs Gannoway and Loggie, two telegraph operators, to their credit, rushed into the instrument - room and succeeded, although at great risk from the burning roof and melting lead, in unscrewing the five instruments in use, and removing them to a place of safety. We regret to learn that Mr Gannoway severely burnt hia hand in the act. Owing to their exertions in thus saving the instru ments Mr Floyd, the electrician, assisted by Messrs Sheath and Lusher, were enabled to have the wires in working order at eight o'clock this morning in the Custom house Hotel—a room for that purpose being placed at their disposal by Mr S. Brown. This is fortunate, as by the destruction of the Telegraph Office all communication with the South was suspended. The whole of the stationery, &c, in the Telegraph Office was destroyed. The mails and other property in the posttoffice were removed by Mr Quick's men before that portion of the building be came ignited. In the Custom - house the stationery and a vast quantity of papers were consumed, but the warehouse-keeper's books and records of bonded stocks, etc., were fortunately rescued. The shipping registers and many valuable documents were confined in one of Milner's fire-proof safes, and this morning, on the safe being opened, the whole of the books and papers were recovered with only their covers slightly charred. This shows the value of Milner's 3afes. Another safe recovered from the debris of Scherffs store, and whose maker's name we could not discover, was opened this morning. The whole of the contents were a heap of smouldering ruins. To return to the fire, at two o'clock the firemen appeared thoroughly paralysed, their efforts being only met by the fire breaking out with redoubled vigour. The spectacle was terrible in the extreme, and fears were audibly expressed that Queen-street must fal a prey to the flames. The fire was burstinj out in all directions. The Provincial Go vernment offices were already in flames which were being communicated to th< Post-offices underneath. The sight in Short land-street was grand. Buildings opposit* were threatened. Messrs Nathan, who ha< previously been assisting Messrs Isaacs, hac now to turn their attention to their owi premises, and with help were enabled to en velppe their premises in wet blankets Their example was followed by their neigh hours, while the offices of the Royal Insur ance Company were cleared out "stock, lock and barrel." The Bank of Australasi* was in imminent peril, but by the stationing of a fireman on the roof with a branch host he wa3 enabled to keep it cool. All boob and stationery were, for precaution, removed to the Bank of New Zealand, but; the bullion was considered perfectly safe in the fire-proof room, and it was conse quently not touched. Mr Macready removed his stock of jewellery for safety, but hispre mises have not been hurt. Some over zealous person has been making work for the glaziers in Mr Saunders' offices. On the upper side of the Post Office stand the premises of Messrs Must and Co. These, although in close contact with the burning building have miraculously escaped uninjured Mr Dargaville is away, and Mr Russell, th< managing clerk, was unaware of the fire, and not a package was removed from the premises. This firm consequently suffei nothing from injury. Messrs McArthur, Shera & Co. were, however, not so fortunate. I the upper part of their premises became ignited several times, and required constant exertions to save the valuable pile of building and their no less valuable stock. They toot the precaution to remove several thousand pounds'worth of goods ; but fortunately theii 1 premises now stand intact. With regard t( the Government offices, great exertions were made to save the various papers and records belonging to the Provincial Government, under the direction of Mr Sheehan and Mi Lusk. Some things were saved from th< Superintendent's room, several maps were fortunately saved, and nearly all the papers, etc., from the treasury, and Mr Allwright'; offices were recovered. There were in th< treasury two iron safes, one a " Milner" anc the other by Marr. They both fell througl the floor on to the piazza below during thi fire, and where exposed to the great heat fo: , a couple of hours, when they were draggec ! o\it with chains. On opening them this morn ! ing the books, money, and papers of variou kinds in Marr's safe were found per fectly sound, though the books wer much charred. The money and paper in the draw of the safe had not beei injured in the least. This safe is lined witl fire clay. Milner's safe, lined with char coal, was less fortunate, the whole of thi parchment documents inside being more a less damaged. The papers were also muci damaged, but sound and legible. Thi parchments had shrivelled up with the heat Some were quite useless, others presentee the appearance rof photographs, tin shrinkage having been so equal tha' the writing, though much reducec was perfectly legible- The records in thi Waste Lands Office are, unfortunately, al destroyed. The papers in Mr. Tole's office (Commissioner of Crown Lands) are, we believe, safe. Amongst those who en deavoured to assist in the salvage was Capt. Lynch, clerk in the R.M. Court, who hac been requested by Mr. Sheehan to save the maps. While in the building the roof fel in nearly covering him with -the burning mass. He was knocked down but managec bo crawl out on his hands and knees, with his back and neck covered with molten leac I from the roof. His right knee also was severely injured with the hot lead. His escape from a dreadful death was miraculous. On making bis ftppearanqe i» ttw "twet W

THE EVENING STAR, NOVEMBER 20, 1872.



JC OS (JEATE & CO. m f Are now Selling- Good Stout Grey Calico, at 3£d Best Scarlet Flannel, slightly damaged, at Is 40 dozen Towels, at 4Jd each 72in. Grey Sheeting, at 10|d 72in. White Sheeting, at la Heavy Welsh Flannel, at Is Marl Grenadines, at 8-Jd Printed Delains, at 3}d White Toilet Quilts, from Cs lid Linen Huck Towling, at Gjd 20 dozen Ladies' Stays, at Is 6d White Cotton Hese, from 3jd White MarseUa, Did Long Lace Curtains, from 4s 9d 50 dozen Parasols, from Is 3d each Musin Curtains, 6 yards, from 4s lid per pair. TO FARMERS, SETTLERS, BUTCHERS AND OTHERS. THE Undersigned are Cash Pur chasers of Hides, Sheepskins, Tallow, Wool, &*., &c, at highest markets rates. L. D. NATHAN & CO., SRORTLAND STREET (Opposite Post-office), Auckland. NEAL'S GENUINE TOMATO SAUCE, prepared from the finest ripe fruit only. NEAL'S ORIENTAL PICKLE, a delicious com pound of Sweets and Sours NEAL'S NEW ZEALAND SAUCE, equal to WORCESTER SA.UOB NEj^S CIF J'^ TEi Y', a m 2* arable condiment supersedes Mustard and more wholesome. B. TONKS & CO. WRQL.E.SALI AGENTBI,



TO THE WORKING MEN OF A U C X LAND. HPHE BEST MOLE TROUSERS in New Zealand can be bought at J. COSGRAVE AND CO.'S at Cs. lid. npECIAL CIRCULAR. Last and ClearinK-ouTsaio of DRAPERY and CLOTHING before the Final Closing of our Premises, will continue during the month of November. A Large and Well-assorted Stock to choose from, and the whole Vwll be offered at an Immense reduction from former prices. N.8.-The Stock has been REMOVED from the Wakefield-street Shop into the Queen-street Shop for convenience of sale. White and Grey Calicoes, Flannels, liite Cotton Hose, and a vory large assortment of Children's Socks. Boys' and Men's Clothing, White Shirts, Under Vests, Socks, Braces, Ties, &c, at a Great Sacrifice. E. HO BBS, WHOLESALE & RETAIL DRAPER, UPPER QUEEN STREET, Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel. \TO¥ PUBLISHED. The November Number of the PRESBYTERIAN MAGAZINE. UPTON & CO ~ Publishers.