SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

PORT OF AUCKLAND.

SUNSET : This evening, 7.18. HIGH WATER: This afternoon, 7.6.

STEAMER FOR THE THAMES.

Enterprise no. 2, 9 o'clock this evening.

ARRIVALS.

Keera, s.s., Carey, from the 'J.names. Selma, schooner, Lendal, from Tahiti. Edith, schooner, Trayte, from Eorotonga. Comerang, p.s., Chrisp, irom Russell. Duke of Edinburgh, p.s., from* Wangarei. Clyde, schooner, for Wangarei. Bessy, schooner, for Waikawau.

DEPARTURES.

Colonist., schooner, for Kaipara.

IMPORTS.

Per Selma. schooner, from Tahiti: i »aies cowon, 01 and one third tont cotton seed, 15 cases preserved bananas, and 1 case sundries. Per Edith, schooner, from Rarotonga : 2,000 dozen oranges, 30 bundles bananas, 400 pine apales, 10 tuns lime juice, 2 and a half tuns cocoa nut oil, 4 boxes shells.

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

For Sydney and Melbourne: Hero, s.s., about the 13th inst. : and City of Adelaide, 18th inst. For London : City of "Auckland, ship, January 18. For Hobart Town : Bella Mary, barque, this evening. For Tauranga, Napier, and Southern ports: Keera, s.s., to-morrow : and Taranaki, s.s., Saturday. For Honolulu : Nebraska, mail steamer, 25th inst. For Napier : Star of the South, s.s., to-morrow. For Newcastle : Frowning Beauty. barque,_ Monday. For Wangarei : Clyde, schooner, this evening. For Samoa, via Tonga : Kenilworth, schooner, 23rd inst.

VESSELS EXPECTED.

H.M.S. Blanche, from Wellington.* Napier, s.s., from Napier Caduceus, ship from London, sailed October 18 Lady Franklin, barque, from Newcastle Ferndale, barque, from Liverpool, sailed September 15 Celestia, barque, from Newcastle Magellan Cloud, schooner, from Chatham Islands Amateur, schooner, from Lyttelton St. Mary, U.S. man-of-war, from Sydney Hero, s.s., from Sydney Naomi, ship, from London Alice Cameron, barque, from Sydney

The schooner Onward left Russell yesterday for this port with 98 tons coal. The William and Julia sailed yesterday from Paissell for the Thames wtih 40 tons coal. The p.s. Comerang, Captain Chrisp, arrived this morning from Russell with the following saloon pas sengers : Mrs. Ford, Miss Hanley, Messrs. Archer, Barstow, Webster, and Paton. She will make a special trip to Eussell at 4 o'clock this afternoon, taking as passengers : His Honor the Superintendent, Messrs Whitaker and Russell, and several gentlemen connected with the Bay of Islands Coal Company. The Clyde, schooner, has arrived from Wangnarei with 150 sacks gum, 14 bales wool and 2 cwt. bark. She brings 4 passengers. The Bessy, from Waikawau brings 10,403 feet timber.

COMMERCIAL.

MINING.

The following are the current calls and dividends payable in the companies ramed below ; — CALLS New Caledonia ... 0 1 0 Jan 11 Pickwick 0 0 3 Jan 11 Occidental 0 10 Jan 13 Neptune 0 0 9 Jan 17 E>y of Tokatea ... 0 0 3 Jan 18 Golden Calf 0 10 Jan 20 Murphy's Hill :.. 0 0 3 Jan 20 Nolan's Candlelight ... 0 1 0 Jan 21 Vulcan 0 5 0 Jan 24 Central Italy 0 2 0 Jan 24 Sailor Prince 0 10 Jan 25 Red Queen 0 0 6 Jan 29 Shotover 0 2 0 Feb 1 MEETINGS TO COME. Corinthian, Governor Bowen Hotel, Grahams town , January 11 Conquering Hero G.M.C, 12, Insurance Buildings, Auckland, January 11 Bank of Tokatea Gold Mining Company, Metropolitan Hotel, Auckland, January 13 Hazelbank, company*, office, Auckland,

January 15 South Lead, Grahamstown, January 15 Neptune Gold Mining Company, Coromandel,

15th instant. Overland Route, Grahamstown, January 16 St Lawrence, Grahamstown, January 16 Bank of New Zealand, Grahamstown, Jan-

vary 16 - Belmont, Grahamstown, January 18 Matawai, Company's office, Auckland, Janu^

Morning Light G.M. Co., Grahamstown,

19th inst. ,_._,.. Californian, Governor Bowen Hotel, Gra hamstown, January 19 Virginia City G.M.C, Grahamstown, Jan*

U^y 22 « r. *1 1 -r Nil Desperandum G.M.C, Coromandel, Jan*

ua.y 22. . Morning Star G.M.C, Grahamstown, Janu»

ary 23 Red Queen G.M.C, Mechanics' Institute,

January 23 Lowland Lass Goldtnining Company, Jan. 24 Eohinoor G M.C, Coromandel, January 24 Argo G-.M.C, Coromandel, January 25 Cyclops G-.M.C, Grahamstown, January 25 Una Quartz-crushing and Goldmining Com* pany, Shortland, January 26 City of Boston G.M.C, Grahamstown, Jan uary 26 __

POST OFFICE, SHORTLAND-STREET.

Mails will Close as Under

For Thames, this day, at 530 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.; and per Challenger at 1 p.m. For Napier and Gisborne, per Star of the South, to-morrow, at 1 p.m. For Tauranga and Opotiki, per Keera, to-morrow at 1 p.m. For KusseU, Kawa Kawa, etc., per Duke of Edin burgh, to-morrow at 3 p.m. For Russell, per Policeman, to-morrow at 4 p.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per s.s. Tara naki, on Saturday at 9 a.m.

S. B. Biss, Postmaster.

MARRIAGE.

RYE—BROOKE : On the 12th October, at Hinton, Charter house, Somerset, P. H. J. L. Rye, of Te Hui, Kaipara, Auckland, New Zealand, to Margaret, daughter of the late H. K. M. Brooke, of Hinton Abbey, Bath.

DIED.

O'CALLAGHAN: On the 7th January, at East Hamilton, Waikato, Douglas William Stewart, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. O'Callaghan.

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

For the cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance. For tho future in the distance,

And the good that we can do."

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 1872.

The " Nonpareil " G-old Mining Com pany is distinguished for enjoying a state of chronic unrest. Some months ago the shareholders were engaged in what was graphically described as " casting out the devils;" but the troubled spirits have not found rest, and seem to think that it is only to be found by obtaining a re-entrance into their old habitations. On that occasion we called on the public to sing " Jubi late !" when the old directorate with all its belongings, was summarily bundled out, neck and crop ; and now we call again upon the public to beheld and admire the heroic efforts of the expelled to re-acquire possession of the influence of which they have been deprived. Hot work has been proceeding for the past few days in the hall of the Mechanics' Institute, and Nonpareil proxies have been at a premium. We can ourselves afford personal testimony to the zeal of the oppositionists, as afforded in one case at least—the obtaining of a proxy by an ingenious system of false pretences of the most straightforward kind. We understand that similar results virtually have been obtained by the less ingenious but simpler method of forging dates of proxies, so as to make antiquated and superseded documents of this class, when re furbished up, assume a modern and effective appearance. Into the merits of the case as between the ins and outs we do not enter; we only know that a party which resorts to the means which have been availed of in this contest, must have some great ends to serve in ousting the present directors and should be religiously excluded from power. The present directory were eljcted as an express mark of condemnation of their predecessors. In that act there was afforded very general satisfaction. The new direc tors at once proceeded to relieve Mr. Roderick McDonald Scott, of the re sponsibilities of Legal Manager. We do not say that they did wisely; we do not say that he may not have been the very best of Legal Managers ; but, as was altogether natural, they pre ferred having a Legal Manager of their own appointment, and Mr. Roderick McDonald Scott retired. But Mr. Roderick McDonald Scott had not finished with the Nonpareil, and it appears declared his determination to be even with the new directors, though he should agitate for 20 years. Mr. Penton, who appears also pro minent in in this fiery agitation, narrowly escaped being elected a member of the present directory, but wasn't. He had also, it appears, a re lative, for whom he wanted an appoint ment from the directors, but they did not seem to see it. We do not blame Mr Eenton for this. On the contrary, we believe he shows a very commend able spirit in .not forgetting to do a service to his friends, when he can have opportunity. That opportunity was not afforded by the new directors of the -■ Nonpareil," whereat Mr. Eenton was indignant. Animated by these not very elevated motives, these two gentlemen appear to have essayed to fan the smouldering embers of dis content, and have summoned these in dignation -meetings of shareholders. Eor so far, they have been ignoinini ously defeated, as, we would venture to j say, they deserved. There is of course a tendency in the pubilc mind to sym pathise with a defeated party in a hopeless struggle with power; but it must be remembered that those now in power in the Nonpareil company, were placed I;here to repair gross abuse, and that it is the most natural thing , possible, that the overthrow of abuse should make somebody wince. Mr,

Eoderick McDonald Scott declared j again to-day in public meeting, that he would keep up the agitation for twenty years, or he would succeed. We think it will be quite sufficient for the share holders to take a note of this, and also of the motives that seem to inspire Mr Eoderick MeDonald Scott to a twenty years crusade, to make his further efforts at agitation futile. The supporters of the present directors offered unusual advantages to their opponents to-day in a challenge to a test of strength; but we call on the director^ in the interest of the whole body of shareholders, to afford no further encouragement to these agita tators, whose motives are not the in terests of the company, but their own personal spite. This continued agita tion is injurious to the company, and the old regime having been overthrown by the irresistible force of public opinion, we trust the shareholders will not stultify themselves, by affording the smallest measure of sympathy or encouragement to a clique, and its belongings, that only found their de served fate.

We are much pleased to find that the City Council have listened to the dictates of sober reason with reference to the paving of the footpaths of the city ; nnd that at least an opportunity will he afforded of proving to citizens the suitableness of asphalt. At the last meeting of Council, it was resolved by the Council to afford permission to a leading citizen to have a portion of the footpath in Wyndham street laid with this material, the request having been preferred with the sole desire of proving the value of proper asphalt. In accordance with a resolution previously passed by the Council, information was obtained from other places with reference to the relative merits of asphalt and stone for pavement. The information from Melbourne, where the bluestone quarries in the suburbs provide at the lowest possible price, perhaps the hardest and best paving stones in the world, is unfavourable to the asphalt on the question of cheapness. But when we know that our local quarries are a monopoly, and that this monopoly somewhat prematurely has been attempted to be turned to practical account, the relative values of stone and asphalt must be rather reversed in the case of Auckland. Besides, we hold that any number of unfavourable reports respecting asphalt do not avail against one single good report, inasmuch as every one knows, that knows anything at all on the subject, that asphalt can be of the veriest rubbish. Whereas a statement show ing that it is capable of being made to rival stone in durability, and at the same time vastly exceed it in cheapness, is all we require. That this _b fact regarding genuinely good asphalt, is known ; and we presume that in contemplating asphalt-pavements, the City Council mean real asphalt, not rubbish. The report from the Southern provinces, we understand, was favour able, as every one that has seen the footpaths of the southern cities must have expected; and, in consequence, permission has been accorded for the laying of a specimen portion of footpath in Wyndham street. We do very cordially commend the public spirit of the gentleman who thus proves his faith in asphalt by hia works; and we confidently anticipate that his spirited action will result in having most of our principal footpaths laid with a material, that is in the utmost degree suited to time, place and circumstances. We are glad to say that a thoroughly com petent and experienced worker in asphalt has been engaged for-the work, so that the material will have, a fair local test. And we need scarcely add that if the citzens of Auckland, which cannot yet be called a city of the first magnitude, are relieved of the oppres sive burthen of having to pave their footpaths with costly stone, they should feel grateful to those who may have been instrumental in effecting such result.

We are pleased to observe the decision in the Police Court to«day, with referenco to the cutting in Wakefield street t not that we are glad to see the co ntractor punished, but be cause it will be the most effectual .deans of removing a real danger to human life. We formerly drew attention to this danger, but it appears that, not the City Council, but the contractor, was responsible for the neglect of precautions. Every night since the com" mencement of the works, the light of the candles placed in the lanterns at the excavai tions were extinguished before one o'clock in the morning. And in this we believe Mr- Eeilly has been more sinned against than sinning ; for we have reason to believe that in some cases the candles were deliberately stolen. We are glad the police have done their duty in the matter, but really considering what a thoroughfare has long existed in Wakefield street between country and town, there should be something more effective done than the mere furnishing the precarious light of a lamp at night; and either the place should be carefully blocked up, or further protection afforded.

A man who has lately held the office of check-taker at the pit entrance to the Theatre Royal, died suddenly yesterday morning. An inquest is being held at the Provincial Hos pital as to the cause of his death, as we go to press. Operations have recommenced on the long dormant Drury Railway. A gang of men were at work this morning in that portion o^ the line between the Domain and the bridge in Mechanics' Bay.

Prom a telegram from the Bluff kindly shown to us by a friend, we learn that the Somersetshire has arrived at Melbourne after a pleasant passage, and brought a number of passengers en route for Auckland, among others, Mr. H. E. Christie of the Bank of New Zealand, Mr. and Mrs. B. Harrison, &c. Th c Hero was to leave_Melbourne on Tuesday, the 2nd instant, for Auckland via Sydney, so that she cannot well be expected here before to-morrow morning.

As will be seen from advertisement, the first numberrof the "New Zealand Presbyterian Magazine," a monthly periodical devoted to the interests of the Presbyterian Church, has been published to-day. It is to be had from MrWayte, the publisher.

A most lamentable accident happened on the night of tho 23rd ultimo at the house o* Mr Miller at Maungakaramea. The .premises caught fire and were consumed, and a poor little fellow named David, son of Mr Miller, was burnt to death before assistance could be rendered him.

Kereopa's portrait has been taken by a Napier artist, who has secured the copy*, right of his work of art, The likeness, ac cording to the Eawke's Bay Times, "is of exceedingly faithful character, and shows considerably less outward appearance of villainy than might be expected by those who have read of his deeds. The expression of tho feature, is, in fact, of a plaintive rather than a criminal cast."—Southern paper.

There seomed to be a curious fatality in regard to the trial of cases in the Criminal Court this morning. First, one of the jurors empanelled in the wounding case met with a severe accident, and that case had to be left in abeyance ; then it appeared that some of the counsel were too unwell to proceed on account of the prevailing epidemic j then one of the persons accused was absent, because he had been led to believe that he would not be wanted, and for a similar reason a witness in another case had gone out of town. His Honor made some remarks on the incon venience thus occasioned by one accident, and said in future he would havo to insist on the continual attendance throughout the session of all parties concerned. As matters stood, there was no alternative but to lose half a day, and adjourn the Court until ton to morrow. Sharks are beooming prevalent in the harbour. One measuring Bft. 6in. long was caught yosterday by the watermen. Others hare been seen, but tbe attempts at their capturo have been ineffectual. The Auckland Bowing Club will hold a general meeting this evening at 7.30. A full attend, ance is requested. The business will consist of selecting the orews for the annual regatta > and other business; also, to consider the legality of the Thames Eagatta Committee entertaining the protest on the four-oared amateur gig race in the late regatta at the Thames. The dairymen's association will hold a meeting on Friday evening next at tbe Eden Vine Hotel, New North Road, to consider the rules of the new association and other business that may be brought before the meeting.

If we may judge from the appearance of a specimen of tobacco which we have seen in a garden in tho Newton hollow, belonging to Mr. Bull, of Wakefield street, we should be disposed to think that the cultivation of the plant in this di.trict would be a most profitable business. The plant had no especial care dovoted to it; indeed, Mr. Bull was unaware of the proper method of treatment until too late to be of much service. However, the sample is a large one, and some of the leaves measure two feet by fourteen inchca. If the weed can be grown to advantage even in Australia, where frequent hailstorms beat down the leaves and destroy the hopes of the agriculturist, surely in this country, where there is no such drawbaok, it could readily be made a great source of profit.

Messrs. Vicker and Co., the distillers, have obtained a verdict of £28,964 compensation against the Metropolitan Railway Company for the re-construction of their premises, rendered necessary by certain extension works being carried on by the railway company.

On the 41st day of the Tichborne trial Mr. Sergeant Ballantyne informed tho Court that his client could no longer continue the arrangements as to shorthand notes, by which two sides had paid £700 a week between them for a correct report of the proceedings by shorthand writers. The Judge under these circumstances was compelled to take the evidence down himself in the ordinary way, an incident which, of course, will lengthen the proceedings. Mr. George Alexander Lingard, one of the most popular members of the Christy Minstrels, has died. As illustrating the progress of the Austra* lian Mutual Provident Sooiety, we copy the following from tho Melbourne Argus of 15th December, 1871:—"The following has been sent to us as an example of the advantage! of the " mutual" system of life assurance. The late Rev. George Mackie insured his life 18 years ago in the Australian Mutual Provident Society for £1,000. The policies are now worth £1,518 17s. 2d.—i.e., the following bonuses have been added to them, viz. :—ln 1859, £82 10s. 5d.; 1864, £183 10s. sd. 1869, £222 16s. 4d. ; 1870-71, £30 : total, £518 17s. 2d., being considerably in excess of the premiums paid by him, whioh amounted to £395 2b."

We observe with pleasure, that the au» thorities are taking advantage of the present low tide in the reservoir to olean it out. It is high time, for the bottom shows a rich deposit of slime mixed with a great variety of de» composiug elements. It is difficult to perceive how the water could do otherwise than pro duce dysentery, in its present filthy state, unless subjected to a process of fermentation, similar to that which takes plaoe in Thames water, when taken on ship-board.

The cutting at tho summit of Wakefield street is making rapid progress, and the Market Reserve is fast assuming a level aspect,

SPECIAL TELEGRAMS.

THE CALEDONIAN.—MINE MANAGER'S REPORT.

The following is a copy of a telegram

received from the Mine Manager:— "Jan. 10,10,12 a.m.' " There is no change whatever in the mine.

" S. E. EICHARDS."

(FROM OUR OWN" CORRESPONDENT.)

INQUEST AT THE THAMES'

GrBAHAMSTOWN, 3.35 p.m. There is nothing new to-day in min iug matters.

The inquest held on the boy Bicketts who was drowned yesterday, resulted in a verdict of " accidently drowned."

THE SHARE MARKET.

j m lennox's report.

The sharemarket is unusually dull, My sales comprise—Caledonian, £52 10s, £19 15s. There have been very few trans actions in the shares, Closing sellers—Cale donian, £50 ; Thames, £14; Tookey, £18. Buyers: Caledonian, £49.

SUPREME COURT.

CRIMINAL SESSIONS.-YESTER-

DAY, (Continued)

Before His Honor Sir G. A. Arney, Chief

Justice

UNLAWFUL WOUNDING.

In the case against J. S. Gibbons, a great quantity of additional evidence was taken, which to show that the skirmish occurred in consequence of dis puted ownership in the logs at Whanga poua, and the wound was not serious, although painful. The men in com plainant's boat had commenced the affray, and those in prisoner's had to push the boat off with their poles, fearing from the the excited state of the Kennedy's Bay natives in it that life might be lost. The court adjourned at half-past five until 10 this morning.

THIS DAY.

His Honor took his seat at ten o'clock, and the case against Jas S Gibbons for unlawfully wounding Muna Hori Grey, was called.

On the names of the jury being called, one named George Bond was found to be absent, and after an hour and a half passed in making enquiries, it was found that he had hired a horse last night to proceed to his residence at Mangere, anl it was believed that he had met with an accident.

Mr Cooper applied for an adjournment übtil to-morrow, he himself was unwell, and other learned counsel engaged in cases were also ailing. " His Honor consequently adjourned the Court for half an hour, on the understand ing that the case against W G Pratt for a breach of the Arms Act should then be taken. Gibbons' bail was enlarged until to-morrow.

On the Court resuming it was, from various reasons, found impossible to proceed with any of the other cases on the calendar. His Honor, therefore, found it absolutely necessary to adjourn the Court until 10 o'clock to-morrow, when the case of unlawfully wounding will be taken first, and if necessary a fresh jury empanelled- After it the charges under the Breach of Arms Act will be heard, and then those for perjury.

POLICE COURT.

THIS DAY. Before His Worship the Mayor, and J. Baber, Esq., J-P. DRUNKENNESS. Five persons were convicted of drunken ness. Vi.GEA.NCY. Mary, (a Maori) was sent to gaol for 3 months for having no visible means of support- There were nine previous con victions against her. pbofanity. George Kelly pleaded not guilty to using profane language in Queen-street; within the hearing of passers-by. Constable O'Connor proved the offence. Discharged with a caution. FIGHTING IN THE STBEET. Ellis Jones, and Samuel Loyal alias John Wilson, were charged with behaving in a public street, to wit Queen-street, in such a manner as to occasion a breach of the peace. Both prisoners pleaded guilty. Ellis had twenty-three previous convic tions against him. The Bench sentenced Ellis to 3 months imprisonment with hard labor, and to pay a fine of £10 and costs or to suffer three months imprisonment iv addition. Loyal, being considered a more dutiful subject, was ordered to pay a fine of £10 or the alternative of two-months hard hard labor.

BBEACH OP THE MUNICIPAL COEPOEATION ACT.

Eugene Reilly, contractor, appeared in answer to three informations, charging him with neglecting to keep an excavation erected by him in Wakefield street suffi ciently lighted, from sunset to sunrise, from the evening of the 4th until the Bth.

The defendant plead3d guilty, and also pleaded ignorance of the act. The Bench convicted him in the penalty of 20s and costs for each offence.

FBATOULENT BAILEE.

Robert E. Colcbord was brought up on remand, charged with appropriating the sum of £3 to his'own use, having been entrusted with the same by one Cormick. On the application of Mr. Broham the case was further remanded for one week, a material witness not being forthcoming.

LICENSING NIGHT CAHTS

The charge against Abel Fletcher for neglecting to licence a night cart in use by him withdrawn by Mr. Brodie, the Town Clerk, as the City Council did not wish to press heavily on the defendant. He did not appear to acknowledge this act of grace. This concluded the b usinesi,

MAN ABOUT TOWN.

" Let dogs delight to bark and bite, Eor 'tis their nature too ; But neighbours Uey should never fight, Because it will not do." So said Dr. Walts, but how little people pay attention to his maxims, may be seen from last evening's police reports. The Court-revelled in assault cases, and the approaches to the Court were literally teeming with witnesses. In one case the complainant actually took "Joy" in the proceedings while the defendant felt com pelledjfor resortto comforting influence to a * certain " Boveridge" for support during the trying ordeal, even after taking a stimulant at the " Auckland" first. The good woman had been slapped in the fane by a monster of a man, but deposed on oath that she had not looked in a glass and did not know if the blow left a mark. Her witness too, with great simplicity could could not positively swear whether the blow was a severe one, as she did not feel it. Counter summonses followed and re sulted in both being bound over to pre serve the peace, but such was the confi dence each party had in their own cause and the results, that they failed to be pro vided with the necessary friends to "go bail," and were consequently detained together.looking a regular "happy family." It would be a groat saving of time and trouble in similar cases, if the parties bailed one another, it would obviate their putting themselves under obligations to friends. And then, in the event of any further outbreak between them, if A. assaulted B. he must pay £20 to B's £10, and if B. retaliated it would cost him £20, and a £10; so that each would suffer to the extent of £30, and the State would be £60 in pocket by the transaction. No one couldcomplainoftheirfolly.butthemselves. Another case between a builder and a tailor was very amusing, and the tailor had taken the precaution to have his bail handy in case he was wanted, but it was a storm in a tea-cup and ended in nothing beyond being fatal to the tailor's pitcher, which had evidently been taken to the well once too often. It was all about the right to draw water from a certain well which belonged to the complainant and stood on his property, but the tailor had evidently been reading about Odger and Bradlaugh, and denied the landlord's right to the property at all. He would have a fair division of the earth's produce and would recognise the rights of no man The proffered pitcher full of water would not be accepted as a concession, it was de manded as a right. But what astonished everybody was the extraordinary evidence given by the plaintiff's witnesses who were called to prove the assault alleged to have been committed. All agreed that they heard the angry alteication, they saw the breaking of the pitcher at the well, the off-turned waistcoat of the defendant (coat, he had none), the upturned sleeve . and uplifted hands in an offensive and ag gressive attitude, but they beheld no more, they never saw those hands brought down, they probably turned away in horror at the scene, and could not gaze on such a spectacle, therefore closed their eyes, and could say no more about the occurrence. The worthy J.P.s dismissed the summons. If a finger raised in a threatening attitude constitutes an assault it does not require much gumption to denote what the actions of the accused constituted. The Bench declined to bind him to the peace, to use its own «xpression " not this time." Do they anticipate a renewal of the aggression if so is prevention better than cure? Bravo, Ropata ! to divide the £1000 reward for the capture of Kereopa among your followers—a noble deed, worth re counting ; there was no portioning it out in " lays," too, by which you would get the lion's share, but equally did you divide the amount amongst your followers to the lowest grade. Do you think a lesson might be learnt from your be haviour by any of our Volunteer officers who compete for prizes along with their privates? Is your conduct worthy of emulation by these gentlemen ? Talking about JEereopa reminds one of the preparations for his execution. The rehearsal of the proceedings beforehand by the gaol authorities, with the lay figure of the murderer, composed of a sandbag. Just fancy the mock procession, the ascent to the scaffold, the doomed figure being assisted up by sturdy warders, the " last dying speech and confession" inaudibly uttered, " the glare of that wild despairing eye " before the drawing over of the ghastly white cap, the adjustment of the fatal noose,

Those pinioned arms, those hands that ne'er Shall be lifted again—not even in prayer. The hangman's appeal for forgiveness, the last shake of the hand, the hurrying from the drop of gaol officials and chap lain, leaving the trembling wretch to his fate; the drawing of the fatal bolt, the fall of the drop, the dull thud, the tremor through the spectators as the quivering " sandbag" hangs suspended in midair, that but a moment before was resting on the drop above, —is all a picture that one who had once seen would never forget through all the following vicissitudes of life. This is how Lieutenant-General Robert son replies to those who have remarked upon the dress, or rather undress, of some of the Thames Scottish. " I request your anonymous correspondent to publish his name, otherwise I brand him as a sneak and a coward, and will treat him as all sneaks and cowards should be treated— with silent contempt." This is sublime, and calls to mind an occurrence between two gentlemen. "Sir," said one, after receiving a knock-down blow f?otn the other, " did you mean that blow in jest." "No," replied the other, "I was never more in earnest in my life." "I am glad of that," answered the first, " for I never take a joke." The fertile brains of Messrs H. L. Cohen and Co. have been at work. They apologise to the public for holding a sale on Saturday, because the gentleman is leaving by the mail steamer for the South. This is very considerate of them, and they deserve great praise for their good man ners, in excusing themselves for breaking their agreement with the public. It shows that they at least have a conscience. To successfully throw a bouquet to an actress at a theatre requires some skill and judgment. It should not be thrown to hit the lady on the head iv the manner that was witnessed one evening at the Itoyal, nor should it tumble in the orchestra, or fall on the stage in such a place and such a time that it shall be difficult to say for whom it is

intended. On Friday last a bouquet of of enormous dimensions was hurled at Miss Stephenson with alarming velocity, which, had it not missed the mark, must have felled her to the stage. On picking up the floral offering it was as much as she could carry with both her hands. A nice summer cabbage of similar size w<Hild no doubt have been much more accep^ »■ it carefully thrown upon the stage, s^.^ damage neither the recipient no cabbage.

AUCKLAND PRESBYTERY

The regularly quarterly meeting of the Auckland Presbytery was held in St. Andrew's Church to day, commencing at eleven o'clock. There was a consider able number of the members present, and a good deal of important business was transacted, but we are obliged to hold over our report until to-morrow. After adjournment at one o'clock, the Presbytery resumed at two, and business was proceeding as went to press.

THE VOLUNTEER CHRONICLE

THE MAYOE'S CUP

The firing for the Mayor's cup came off this morning at the rifle range at six o'clock. The weather was favorable for good shooting and there was a good mus ter of Volunteers, the Mayor also was on the ground. The firing was the best that has been for some time past, and even those who were unsuccessful have the pleasure of knowing that they made firsc class scores. Sergeant G M Cameron, No 2 company, won the prize. Number ot points, 80; Warren, 79. Three cheers were given for the Mayor, and for Major Gordon.

The dismounted parade of the Prince Alfred Troop, Ii.C.V. held usually on Wednesday, will be held to-morrow Thurs day evening, in the Drill-Shed, at /'SO^

It is often said that colonial riflemen would be able to distinguish themselves at the Home competions, if they went there, and this opinion has been borne out. The volunteers here will remember Lieut. Hazard of the Thames, who was a representative at the colonial competition here in 1869. Mr Hazard, who,is now on a visit to England, has according to late papers, been distinguishing himself there. He was too late for the Associa tion's meeting at Wimbledon, but at a country meeting at Birmingham he fired four matches, and took prizes in two shooting against Queen's prizemen, of whom there were several at the meeting. — Dunedin Star.

NONPAREIL GOLD-MINING COM PANY.

A meeting of shareholders convened yes terday was, after a lengthy discussion, adjourned until this morning at 10 a.m. Mr Woods had tabled a motion, " That the shareholders of the Nonpareil Gold mining Company being dissatisfied with the action of the undermentioned directors, viz., Messrs Mclioberts, Ring, Goodall, and Wrigley, call upon them to resign forthwith." Upon resuming the discussion this morning, Mr R. McDonald Scott pro posed a resolution to the same effect as Mr Woods' previous motion.. Mr Brown seconded. After some desultory discussion of a personal nature, Mr Scott retired from being scrutineer, and Mr Macdbnald was elected by tbe meeting in his stead. Several motions and amendments were put indiscriminate ly, amongst which was, "that the meeting adjourn for fourteen days;" aud an amendment, "that the directors do now resign." The latter was carried on the show of hands. A poll was demanded by Messrs Wrig ley and Mcßoberts, Messrs Macdonald and T. B. Scott being elecced scrutineers. The opposing shareholders refused to go to the poll, and subsequently their proxies were withdrawn. They then left the room in a body, making use of cat calls and un earthly noises; The meeting then lapsed.

PRINCE OF WALES THEATRE.

The admirable comedy of "The Two Hoses" was repeated last evening with immense success. Most of the slight im perfections whioh inevitably characterise the first performance of a piece had been amended, and the actors seemed possessed of more confidence and a better acquaint ance with their parts. That of Digby Grant, a proud and poor gentleman, who having unexpectedly become possessor of a large fortune, and consequently given himself the usual supercilious airs, had afterwards to disgor_e in favor of the true heir, was most ably rendered by Mr Tavares in a quiet and effective manner. Mr Hill as a regenerated bagman was also remarkably good. Mr Jones as the lover of the Ked Hose, is also deserving of honorable mention. Miss Surtees took the leading female character—that of the fled Hose. This she performed with much spirit and a perfect apprecia tion of the part. We confess, however, that we should rather see this talented lady in tragedy. Her figure, style, voice, all appear better suited to it. Of Mrs Hill, as the White Rose, it is unnecessary to say more than that she was charming as usual. Mrs Jones also was remarkably good as the somewhat shrewish wife of the pious bagman. The burlesque of Little Red Ridinghood concluded the entertainment. This has been so often favourably noticed, that it is only neces sary to say a word of special approbation in favor of Miss May Hill. This little girl enunciated clearly and distinctly, and acted witha correctness and precision which reflect the greatest credit, not only 6\n her-,-, self, but on the care which has beenWfSfl of her education by her talented mether, Mrs. Waiter Hill.—This evening "JKiche lieu" is to be produced, in whichj Mr. * Tavares will take the part of Rich4lieu> and Miss Surtees that of Julie De Mortemar.

Idleness is the very rust and canker of the soul; the devil's cushion, pillow, chief reposal; his very tide-time of tempta tion, as it were, wherein he carries with much care, and without contradiction". the current of our corrupt affections, to any cursed sin.— Bolton.

THE EVENING STAR, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10., 18?3

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NOTICE. R,J YATES begs to inform the residents . of Parnell and the public generally, that after tho Ist day of January, 1872, the business now being carrried on by Me Thomas Watebs will be taken by him, when he trusts that by strict attention to business, keeping goods of the very best quality, and selling at t reasonable profit, to merit the same support as his predecessor. IN retiring from the business which he has carried on successfully for so many years, the undersigned begs to return his sincere thanks to all those who have honored him with their patronage, and hopes that the same liberal rapport will be given to his successor (Mb B J Yates), whose long experience in the Grocery trade will enable him to give the fullest satisfaction to all who may become customers of his. j WATERS J~"~~~ CATER (late Cbombib's), ROYAL . PHOTOGRAPHIC GALLERY, Queen street, Auckland, has much pleasure in in forming his friends and the public generally She has purchased Photographic Business so long carried on by Mr Crombie; o«d having secured the services of Mr Crombie's late Manager, he, feels warranted in stating that they will receive every cmlty SI attention, as well as first-class and artistic portraits at his hands, and that no pains will be snared to give entire So. also wills to inform the Ladies that amusements- are being made for taking instantaneous Portraits of -Children,



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