SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

PORT OF AUCKLAND.

SUNSET : This evening, 5.8. HIGH WATER : This afternoon, 5.1.

ARRIVA L s- „ . . .. Star of the South, s.s.. Ben dall , from Napier via the Clydei schooner, Anderson, from Wangarei.

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

For Southern ports via Napier; Nebraska, mail

steamer, on arrival. For Sydney and Melbourne: Wonga Wonga, s.s., on arrival of Nebraska; Hero, s.s., 24th May. For London : Caduceus, ship, Tuesday. For Honolulu : Nebraska, mail steamer, May 16. For Southern ports : Taranaki, on arrival of Nebraska. For Tauranga : Tauranga, early. Foi Newcastle: W. C. Wentworth, barque, early;

Wild Duck, ship, early. For New York: Chattanooga and Europa, early. For the South Seas : Adventurer, whaler, this evening. For Russell: Comerang, p.s., Monday. For Wangarei, &c. : Sovereign of the Seas, this evening ; Clyde, schooner, Monday. _ - For Napier: Star of the South, s.s., this evening.

VESSELS EXPECTED.

flelenslee, ship, from London (sailed Jan. 11). Cleopatra, schooner, from Lyttelton Alpha, schooner, from Newcastle Amphitrite, schooner, from Sydney Union, brig, from Newcastle. Bulwark, ship, from London Flirt, schooner, from Wellington Nebraska, mail steamer, from Honolulu

The well-known paddle steamer Golden Crown will be sold by auction on Monday next by Mr. Stannus Jones, at his mart, at 11 o'clock a.m. The p.s. Comerangwlll leave on Monday next for ■Russell only, and will return at once to Auckland. Messrs Ja?ger and Parker, of Freeman s Bay, offer for' sale a cutter, copper-bottomed and fastened, with new sails and gear in good order. The fine, fast-sailing, and favourite clipper ship Caduceus having completed her loading, will haul away from the wharf on Monday, and will sail for London on Tuesday: The p. s. Devonport has been chartered to convey passengers on board at three o'clock p.m. on that day. Captain Roberts is an old and respected commander in the New Zealand trade, and we are simply echoing the wishes of all his friends in wishing him a' safe and speedy passage home. We shall be glad to welcome him back once more in our waters on his return trip, and hope to be able by then to provide better accommoda tion and appliances for discharging his ship than at present exist. The Caduceus takes on htr homeward run a large and valuable cargo of gum, flax, and wool, and has a fair complement of pas sengers. .... The SsS. Wonga Wonga, now lying m the stream awaiting the arrivaljjof the Nebraska, will not remain later than Monday next. There is still one vacant saloon berth suitable for a gentleman on board the ship Caduceus, leaving for London. __

DEPARTURES.

Nil.

POST OFFICE, SHORTLAND-STREET.

Mails will Close as Under For Thames, on Monday, 6th inst., at 5.30 p.m. For Whitiangi, per Mercury, this day, at 3 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Sovereign of the Seas, this day, at 3 p.m. For Napier and Gisborne, per Star of the South, this

day, at 3 p.m. „..,.. For St. Andrew's, Kennedy s Bay, per Tmtin, this

day, ats p.m. For Kapanga, per Royal Alfred, on Monday, at

11.30 a.m. For Russell, Wangaroa, and Mongonui, per Comerang, on Monday, 6th inst., at 3 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, AVangarei, and Mangapai, per Clyde, on Monday, 6th inst., at 3 p.m. For London direct, per Caduceus, on Tuesday, 7th

inst., at 11 a.m. For Taranaki and Southern provinces, per Taranaki,

immediately after arrival of the Nebraska. For Australian Colonies, India, China, Mauritius, Mediterranean ports, Continent of Europe, and United Kingdom, via Brindisi, and via Suez and Southampton, per Wonga Wonga, immediately after the arrival of Nebraska from Honolulu. For Napier and Southern provinces per s.s. Nebraska six hours after her arrival from Honolulu. S. B. Bias. Postmaster.

BIRTH.

Lynch.—On the 4th May, at her residence, Parnell, the wife of J. Lynch, of a son. '

DIED.

Fuxgames.—On Saturday, May 4,1872, George Alfred, eldest son of Mr. A. S. Fulgames, late of Bath, Somerset, aged 24 years, 5 years member of No. 1 Eoyal Company of Eifle Volunteers. The funeral willleave his father's residence, Hobson street, on Monday afternoon, at 3 o'clock. Friends will please accept this invitation.

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

SATURDAY, MAY 4, 1872.

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.

Our readers, and public generally through out the colony, will regret to learn that ill health prevents the hon. Mr. Vogel froA addressing his constituents, as he proposed doing on his return from Australia. A letter from Mr. Vogel, which we publish in another column, will we feel assured be a sufficient explanation to each and every one of his constituents. We only trust that Mr. Vogel may be enabled for a time to enjoy a little rest, and that his energies may be thoroughly restored before the next meeting of the General Assembly. There is a very great tendenoy on the part of our leading public men to over work themselves, and Mr. Vogel ir not the only instance whereill health has been brought on by attempting to do too much in the l«mc« of the country;

A committee meeting of the Chamber of , Commerce was held yesterday afternoon for the purpose of making preparations for laying before the Government, through the Secretary o f the Customs, the requirements of New Zealand commerce with reference to Customs draw, backs. It was considered by the committee that New Zealand ought to be able to compete on at least equal terms with the .Australian colonies for the trade of the South Sea Islands ; and also, that every facility ought to to be given to our merchants for relieving the market when overstocked with imported goods. We understand that the Government has expressed its intention to introduce a bill to meet the requirements of the case, and ar rangements have been made by the Chamber of Commerce for supplying the Government with all the local information that can assist it in the plans.

An accident happened at Papatoitoi on Thursday. A pair of horses attached to a i dray bolted from the door of the Raglan hotel, and meeting Messrs. R. Brown and Routley on. horseback, came in collision with them. Mr. Brown recoived a compound fracture of the leg, besides other bruises, and Mr. Routley a severe gash on the face and other parts of the body. Help was procured, and Dr. Zinzan was soon on the spot and attended to the injuries. They are now doing favourable. Since tbe above was in type we have received a letter from Mr. W. Dean stating that Messrs. Brown and Routley were galloping their horses, and that they ran into his dray, which was proceeding along the road at the rate of about 2£ miles per hour. Mr. Dean was walking beside his horses at the time, and they did not " run away," as re ported. The only business at the Police Court this morning consisted in the punishment of three unfortunate inebriates. Mrs. Colclough applied at the close of the Court for his Worship's advice. She had in her charge a little child, the daughter of an unfortunate ; both parents are in gaol. The child was too young for admission to the Industrial School, and if she retained her in her possesion she was liable to annoyance from the parents when their term of imprisonment had expired. His Worship, beyond complimenting Mrs. Colclough on her benevolenco, had no power to assist, but said if she could manage to provide for the child until it had reached the age of four years, an admission to the school would be obtained ; in the ftieantime» should she meet with any annoyance he would advise her to communicate with the police, who would no doubt protect her. We understand that the Chamber of Commerce has commuuicated with the Go vernment with reference to the advisability of publishing with the daily mail notices in the newspapers the times of telegraphing to the Australian colonies when opportunities occur. The postal authorities will in future append this information to their usual mail notices.

Are the Grafton Eoad Highway Board going to form Auburn street ? To be made thoroughly it ought to be attended to at.once before the wet weather sets in. We have been informed that the contract was taken six weeks ago, but the work has not yet been commenced.

Mr. J. A. South wishes us to state that in consequence of a telegram received stating that no boat is leaving from the Thames for Auckland to-day, part of his company are unable to come up. He will, therefore, in order to keep faith with the public, postpone his entertainment until Monday night, when he hopes that his friends will rally round him.

All claims against the estate of Edward Norman, deceased, should be sent in Mr. A. Brock, solicitor, without delay. Persons in. debted to the same estate are requested to pay to the above named solicitor the amounts forthwith.

We observe that a portion of Barrack hill has been fenced off for the purpose of forming a yard for the use of the carts belong ing to the City Council. Stables are in course of erection.

A meeting of the settlers of the Great South Eoad will be held on Tuesday evening next at the Criterion hotel, to consider the ques tion of improvements of the road near Ota" huhu.

JRev. Mr. MeEae will give his final sermon, in Gaelic, in St. Andrew's Church, at 3 p.m. to-morrow, as he is about to proceed to Waipu.

The city contractor for night soil requests us to state that he can supply volcanic soil suitable for gardens at four shillings per load, and scoria at five shillings.

The monthly meeting of the New Zealand Agricultural League will be held at Otahuhu on Tuesday next.

POLICE COURT.

THIS DAY

Before Thomas Beckham, Esq., R.M.

DBTJNKENNESS.

Three drunkards were punished in the usual way by the infliction of fines, with this alternative of imprisonment. This was all the business.

PRINCE OF WALES THEATRE.

There was a large and fashionable attendance at the theatre last evening on the occasion of a benefit to Madame Simonsen. That lady rendered the mad scene in " Lucia di Lam mermoor" in b most impressive manner. Mr. Simonsen gave the " Carnival of Venice" with variations, and other selections on the violin in a magnificent manner. Madame Simonsen afterwards appeared as Lady Teazle in tbe quarrel scene from " The School for Scandal/ Mr. B. N. Jones acting Sir Peter Teazle. Madame was loudly applauded, and proved by the part she took .that among her accomplishments. may be added a good comedienne. The same programme will be repeated this evening, and will be the last performance of these talented artistes previous to leaving for the Thames. 0n *ne return of the company it will be further augmented by Miss Aitken, the popular tragedienne, who will appear in the drama of " Guy Mannering" as Meg MevrileßS—her great impersonation.

TELEGRAPHIC.

SPECIAL TO THE STAR.

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Caledonian Crushing

Otago—Gold Struck—No. 2 Reef.

Miiltum-in-Parto Crushing.

Grahamstown,

3 p.m. The Caledonian has lodged in the Bank 932 ounces, the result of the week's crushing. The Californian tributers have ob tained 206 ounces for the fortnight. The Beehive tribute has crushed 16 tons, and the result is 22 ounces. The Shamrock tribute has crushed 5 tons; the return is 7 ounces of gold. The "Waitemata crushing of 60 tons gave 50 ounces of gold. The Otago struck gold this morning in No. 2 reef. There has been a rush for shares, but the market is quiet again now. The show is moderate, and the reef looks well. The Multum-in-Parvo started crush ing on 70 tons of general stuff.

Inter-Provincial Regatta.

Te Kooti at "Waiparemoana.

Meeting of Ministers.

WELLINGTON

Friday, 2 p.m. At a meeting held for the purpose of arranging for the next inter-provincial regatta, to be rowed on the Welling ton waters, his Honor the Superinten dent occupied the chair. The proposition was approved of, a committee appointed, and at the close ofgthe meeting £120 were subscribed. A man named Drummond has been found dead at Waipukurau. An in quest will be held to-day. Te Kooti is said to be near Waipa remoana. Sub-Inspector Ferris is following him up.

NAPIER.

Saturday, 2 p.m. Mr. Ormond proceeds South by the first steamer to meet Mr. Brogden. All the ministers, with the exception of Mr. McLean, are expected to meet in Wellington at the same time. There are fourteen chains of the JFailway embankment completed be tween Napier and the Spit.

[Pee Gbeville's Telegbam Company.]

NELSON.

Friday. The races commenced, to-day, and resulted as follows :— Maiden Race.—Distance If Mtles. Awatea ... ... ... 1 Squally ... 2 Tides 3 Ttjbf Club Handicap.—Distance, If Miles. Tatterina ... ... 1 Peeress ... ... ... 2 Ely ing Jib ... ... 3 There was a capital run between Tatterina and Peeress—the latter was beaten by half a head aftel? a splendid run all round.

Steeplechase.—Distance, 3 Miles. Ronald ... ... ... 1 Siren ... ... ... 2 Eclipse ... ... ... 3 Ladies' Puese.—Distance, If Miles, fiest Heat. Slander ... ... ... 1 Black Eagle 2 Mystery... ... ... 3 SECOND HEAT. Slander came in first.

THE SHARE MARKET.

MB. J. M. IENNOX'S BEPOBT.

There was considerable business done on the Exchange to-day. My sales comprise—Gale* donian, £21, £22, £20, £20 10s., closing with buyers at £20 10s. ; Thames, £5 j Otago, 305.; Central Italy, 355.; Bismarck, £2 10s. Closing buyers — Caledonian, £20 10s. ; Thames, £5 ; Moanatairi, £4 155.; Bismarck, £2 10s. Sellers—Caledonian, £21; Thames, £5 ss. j Bismarck, £2 12s. 6d..; Otago, 30s. MB. J. EEEGtrSON'S BEPOBT. There a considerable amount of business dene to-day. Caledonians sold freely at £21, afterwards receding; Bismarck, £2 10s., advancing. Great demand for Harbor Views, sold at 17s. 6d. with upward tendency. Tokatea offering at £3 10s., no buyers; Moana« tairi, £4 17s. 6d.; Oriano, 4s. Gd. ; Golden Point, 4s. Buyers, of Tokatea at £3 ss. ; Harbor View at higher than quoted prices. Joseph newmak's bepobt. There has been an active market to-day. Bismarcks somewhat higher; other stocks about the same as yesterday. My sales com prise Caledonian, £22, £21 lCs., £21. Closing —£20 10s. Albions, £4, first issue; West Coast, 10s. ; Moanatairi, £4 17s. 6d. to £4 15s. j Green Harp, £7; Eldorado, Bs.; Otago, 30s. ; Cures, 265. Buyers—Thames, £5 ; Moanatairi, £4 15s.

COROMANDEL.

Friday evening.

Mr. T. B. Scott reports sales —Bismarck, 44s to 40s ; John Bull, 5s ; Golden Point 4s ; Kavenstock, 2s 6d ; Court-house Creek, 3s to 3s 6d j Golconda, £2 j Coromandel Mint, £80 to £110 per full share. Buyers—John Bull, large parcel, at 4s; Golden Point, 4s ; Golconda, £2; Peep o' Day, 5s 6d. Sellers- Working Miners, 5s ; John Bull, 6s ; Pacific, 10s; Foresters, 3s ; Flower of the Hill, 8s j Buffalo, 10s 6d to lis j Kohinoor, Is 6d, Britannia, 2s 9d ; Carnatic, 4s.

NEW ZEALAND FREIGHT COMPANY.

A iaeoely attended and influential meeting of merchants of Auckland wat held yesterday afternoon at the Chamber of Commerce, for the purpose of discussing the advisability of forming a Freight Company. Present : — Messrs. Yon der Heyde, T. Henderson, J. Eoberton, J. M. Dargaville, L. D. Nathan, L. A. Nathan, JB. Tonks, E. Walker, Lyons, Shera, J.M. Clarke, A Heather, W. Grahime, H. Isaacs, E. Isaacs, J. Cosgrave, JD. JL. Mur doch, W. C. „Daldy, J. T. Boylan, D. B. Cruickshank, G. W. Binney, T. Morrin, Bucholz, J. S. Macfarlane, J. Mason, Williams, Clayto 1, Dr. Campbell, Captain Eoberts (ship Caduceus), Captain Baillie (ship Wild Duck), Barber (of Eolph, Sterry & Co.), Wilson, Compton, Chambers (of E. Porter & Co.), James Cruickshank, H. B. Morton, and others.

Ot. Yon der Heyde, Esq., was v<3t«d to the chair, and Mr. T. Batger acted as secrela: /. The Chairman explained the object of the meeting, and called upon some gentleman to put a resolution on the subject, whereupon Capt. Daldy, for the purpose ot opening the discussion, proposed the first resolution, namely, "That this meeting is of opinion that it is expedient for the benefit of the importers and exporters of New Zealand that a a Freight Company should be formed." He remarked that it was for the meeting to decide whether ii should be a local company, or should comprise within its scope their southern brethren. As the matter now stood New Zealand paid at least 25 per cent, more freight than the Australian colonies. This was a great drawback to trade, and enabled the Australian merchants to compete successfully with them to a large extent. Again, the class of vessels employed in the trade was not of such a quality as the present trade demanded j they had suited very well during the time when gum alone was their export staple, but now that the wool trade had increased, and a flax trade had sprung up, it had become expedient that a better class of vessels should be era ployed. He thought that if the merchants of New Zealand would now unite, and devise means to employ a better class of vessels, aad at lower rates of freight, they would be able successfully to compete with the present monopoly. Mr. H. Isaacs cordially seconded the motion. He could epeak with confidence of the results of the movement, having canvassed amongst the importers of Auckland, and found their opinion in unison with his own on the subject. The vessels now employed in the trade, as a rule, were of the very worst class possible, and it became highly necessary that they should now lock after their interest and seek their own protection. Mr. J. M. Clark considered that the pro ject should be a local one, and confined to Auckland. Ho also thought that their ob ject should be to tako freight at the lowest possible paying rate, at tho same time con sider tho interests of the eharehoHers by providing for a dividend against their venture. For the sake of having the matter fairly discussed he would propose an amend ment, that the operations of tho company should be confined to London and Auckland.

Mr. E. Isaacs seconded tho amendment, and gave his reasons for so doing. Auckland had originally not been a loading port, and the charterers in London had looked to the out ward freights alone for their profits ; but things had altered of late, and an export trade had sprung up, so much so that they were obliged to send to other ports for vessels to load. He had found that ho could get freights to Lon don cheaper via Sydney than by the direct route. He was on no account opposed to Messrs. Shaw, Saville, and Co., but it was for the merchants themselves to consider their own interests. It often happened that when cargo was short in London, the charterers themselves would make it up with their own consignments, which on arrival were sold at prices that the merchants here could net compete with, and he had himself purchased goods in this Way actually cheaper than he could import. Mr. J. M. Dargaville spoke in favour of the original resolution, namely, that tbe com pany should comprise withjn its scope other New Zealand ports. They could commence operations with Auckland, and as the business prospered extend them to other ports. He believed this plan would be more profitable to themselves, as by co-operation with the morchants of tho Southern ports they would find it more advantageous in yariouQ waysi Mr. D. L. Murdoch thought it would be futile to limit their operations to Auckland while they had to compete with Shaw, Saville and Co., for this reason—that firm, with their large New Zealand trade, would be able to afford to lower their rates to Auckland, relying on the high rate of freight to other ports to recoup them any losses they might sustain in cutting out opponents in the field. Shaw, Saville and Co.'s monopoly was an incubus they had suffered under for years, and it_ was now high time something was done to remove it. Messrs. Bucholz, T. Henderson, E. Walker also spoke on tho subject in favour of the original resolution. Captain Daldy believed that to make the scheme a thorough success they must secure tbe wool trade of the South. Mr. G. W. Binney saw a great many difficulties in the way of a freight company, and the affair required careful management. Dunedin bad, however, already made herself independent of Shaw, Saville & Co. ; aud if Auckland now formed a company, and pur chased their own vessels instead of chartering, he thought they might look for success. Their plan would be to instruct their agents on no account to ship by the Shaw, Saville line; they will then be able to destroy the monoply. At present they were paying 40s. per ton measurement, while he had seen goods landed at Melbourne at 10s. per ton 5 again the time occupied in the passage from London to Melbourne was usually from 60 to 70 days by the class of vessels employed in that trade, whereas the "old rat-traps" sent out here by Shaw, Saville & Co., took 120 days or more on their passage out. His experience showed that when he ordered goods from London the bills became due long beforo the arrival of the vessel they were •hipped in.and when the vessels did arrive they generally laid out in the stream for three or four days, and then took a long while to discharge. 'The monopoly ought to be upset, the same as had been done at Dunedin. He thought 255. per ton amply sufficient freight for them to pay between London and Auckland. Mr. Shera also supported the proposition to make the concern a New Zealand company ; at the same time they should rely on them selvss only for support. They must expect that the moment they commence operations Shaw, Saville and Co. will reduce their freights in order to command the trade, but this must Ibe met by their insisting that their agents in London shall refrain from shipping by Shaw, Saville and Co.'s vessels. After some further discussion the amend ment was withdrawn and the original motion carried unanimously. Mr. Henry Isaacs then moved that a com mittee be formed, consisting of Dr. Campbell, Messrs. Yon dor Heyde, Daldy, J. M. Clarke, Heather, L. D. Nathan, E. Walker. D. B. Cruickshank, and the mover to draw up a prospectus of the company and submit the

same to a further meeting to be convened by advertisement as early as convenient. A voie of thanks to the chairman terminated the proceedings.

THE VOLUNTEER CHRONICLE

The usual monthly inspection of the Eifle Brigade took place last evening. There was a firstirate muster of Volunteers, and the battalion drill and other movements were per formed in a manner that were highly satisfactory to the commanding • officer. The silver cup was given by an unknown gentleman, and presented by Major Gordon to the successful competitor, Volunteer Douglas. The instructor was prevented from being present through sickness, but the Major urged the Volunteers to attend his lectures and instruction. Major Gordon also took occa sion to remind the members that His Excellency the Governor had expressed his intention of being present at the forthcoming review on the 24th inst. The champion belt of the battalion would be presented to the winner by His Excellency on the occasion. Epsom race-course has been decided on as the locality to hold the forthcoming reriew on the Queen's birthday, that place being considered the most convenient for country Volunteers. The Thames Volunteers are expected to take part in the proceedings. The Grammar School and Blue School Cadets practised yesterday in the Albert barracks the different firings for the Queen's birthday. Circulars have been sent to all officers commanding companies of Volunteers, order ing a church parade on Thursday next, at St. Paul's Cathedral. The attendance will be voluntary. The volunteers are requested to meet with side arms in the Albert barracks on the morning in question. The monthly inspection of the Victoria Company and Cadets, and the Hobson Com pany, will be held on Thursday, the 16th inst. At a meeting of the members of No. 4 Company A.E.8., held last night in the Drill shed, Captain Morrow in the chair, Mr. Alfred Nathan was elected a sub-lieutenant. A church parade of the Auckland Eifle Brigade was ordered last evening for the 9th inst., tho day of general Thankgiving for the recovery of the Prince of Wales. The Auckland College Cadets assembled at the Mount Eden Eifle Eange on Wednesday to compete for a gold star presented by Captain Williams—2B Cadets competed; 8 in the first set,and 20 in the second. The final set of five fired this morning, with the following results :—

150 yds 200ys lOOys 200ys 300 Tl. Private Hears .. 10 10 18 17 8 75 Sergeant Grey.. 15 15. 19 13 12 74 Lieut. Iteilly .. 18 15 17 12 3 05 Sergeant White 14 13 17 10 9 03 Private Saunders 10 14 15 9 7. 55 The highest aggregate scorer for this month was Private Mears. He was therefore allowed to wear the star unt'l tho the next month's competition. The firing was excellent, and the competition keen. Three cheers were given for the winner, and the same for Sergeant Grey, who scored one point less.

COROMANDEL.

[feom oue own coeeespondent.] Friday evening. A winze is being sunk in the JKJohinoor on a leader supposed to bo the same as the Golconda.

The Buffalo are now employed in sink ing a winze between the top and bottom drives along the leader, and have taken from it some very good specimens, the gold appearing throughout the stone. The general appearance of the mine is very favourable. In the Prospecting claim on Court house Creek a winze is being gunk from the upper tunnel to the lower one, along the line ofa leader which runs in aN.N.W. direction. A large quantity of stuff has been taken out in which, the gold is thickly distributed in flakes. Gold is visible in other parts of this mine, and indeed the colour can be obtained any where in the neighbourhood, the main body appearing to lie in a north-west and south-east direction through the centre of the claim.

The Court-house Creek Company are sinking on the opposite side of the creek to the Buffalo with the object of meeting with their leader.

All along this creek great activity pre vails, and numerous parties are out taking up ground. The country has a remarkably promising aspect, and the gold hitherto found appears to be distributed more evenly through the matrix than is usually the case, and seems to be of excellent quality. The Tambaroora Gold Mining Company commenced operations on Thursday by opening a shaft just above the lower peg of the Golconda in a line with the main leader of that Company, which they are sanguine of cutting. JEt is said that several considerable shareholders in the latter company having joined, with confidence of obtaining a good result, The progress of the New Zealand Company's Beach battery has been retarded considerably for want of carpen ters. These have been secured, and the manager, Mr. Thomas, hopes to be ready to receive quartz into the stamper boxes on Monday, the 13th inst., or perhaps Jbefore. These he says will crush 150 tons per week. There is apparently only sufficient stone on hand to keep a battery of this size for about a fortnight, notwith standing the cry for crushing power. Indeed the Green Harp is the only mine with anything like a quantity on band. The Whakaroa Creek, Nil Dtsperandum and New Zealand Companies batteries have in fact been idle for the past fourteen days for want of quartz to crush. The works of the JKJapanga mine are proceeding, the timber for the engine^ shaft is being cut. Mr. C. W. Wright, mining engineer, has been instructed to prepare a plan of the works from duplicate surveys made for the old company. The building of stables is commenced. A tramway will have to be constructed to convey the stone necessary for building engine house, &c. ; when finished, the tramway will also be useful for mining operations.

A preacher, whose custom it was to indulge in very long sermons, exchanged with one who preached short ones. At about the usual time for dismissing the audience begin to go out, until nearly all had left, when the sexton, who had stood it as. long as he could^ walked up to the pulpit stairs, and said to the preacher in a whisper: " When you get through, look up, will you, leave the key at my house, next to the church."

CORRESPONDENCE.

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

PRESS CRITICISM.

PEBSONAI,. To the Editor of the Evening Stab.

SlB, —On Friday evening last a most wanton and reckless attack was made upon me in the columns of the Evening Star. I was charged with systematic bribery, writing actors, &c, up if they paid me, and "slating" (to use your own word) them if they did not ; in fact "prostituting my pen to levy black mail." With regard to the cause of this most un provoked attack, the gifted natural songster of Southland, Willie Steele, I need not enter into the merits of that truly remarkable indi vidual. You are entitled to your opinion— I to mine— the Cross to its—the Herald to its. But to your cruel attack upon ray character I certainly owe the public a reply. You say I received a present from Mr. Hoskins (and add mysterious sentences about writing him up), leaving the public to infer that it was a very large one. A few days before he left Mr. Hoskins certainly did pre sent me with a photograph of himself! I did not personally know the gentlemen until he and Miss Colville produced Formosa, wnich was six or seven months after they had arrived here. At the solicitation f Mr. B. N. Jones, Mr. Brown, of the Cross, and myself, went to the Army and Navy hotel, and heard "Formosa" read before it was produced. I be'ieve we both had a glass of beer during the reading—no more. Immediately on reading your attack on myself I telegraphed to Mr. Hoskins, stating that I had been accused of receiving bribes from him, and the next day I received the following reply : —"Akaroa, April 26.— To J. J. Utting, New Zealand Herald office, Auckland. — Telegram followed me here, accounting for delay. I never directly or indirectly offered a bribe to you or any other member of the press. I have hitherto been able to travel on my own merit*. My agent told me that he had shewn you a character photograph, and you expressed a wish to have a copy. I gave you one just before I left Auckland. If this be bribery we are very guilty—William Hoskins." —So much for the bribes from Mr. Hoskins. Now with regard to those disgraceful "opera glasses" which appear to be your special point of attack. After the conclusion of Hoskins and Colville's engagement, and when they were to have left by the next steamer, I was sitting next to Miss Colville in the dress circle one evening. In front of her lay the "disgrace ful opera glasses." I said " Will you allow me?" She replied "certainly," and I used the glasses. She asked me if I was short sighted. I replied that I was. She then said, " you have been very kind to Mr. Hoskins and myself since we have been here, I should like to make you a little present before we go away, will you accept these glasses, I have another pair at my house." I thanked her, but did not tatce them. A night or two afterwards when I went into the theatre Miss Colville beckoned me over, and after shaking bands said, " I am very much offended with you. I offered you a pair of opera glasses the other night, you accepted them, but were too proud'to take them with you. Now if you dont take them I shall be seriously offended." I then took them, and I have no hesitation in saying that had you been in my place you would bave done^ho same. Instead qf being ashamed of the " disgraceful opera glasses" I am rather proud of them. With regard to the " cases of wine" and the " rival theatres" I have not the slightest idea what is meant. It is quite true that two years a.go last Christmas the late Mr. Norman, with whom I was very friendly, sent me half a dozen of wine. I accepted them in the same spirit in which they were sent. If my memory serves me rightly, at that time "no rival theatres" were going. With regard to the whole of the other charges, there is not a word of truth in them. You say I " slated " Tavares j I say I never did anything of the kind—although truth to say he more than once deserved it. I considered him a fair actor, and give him decent notices. When he played lago, I wrote a column in his praise. He several times left his card at my office, and wished to be introduced to me, but I prefered, to remain aloof. Just before he went away, however, he left a note for me to call upon him ; I did so, but took Mr. Joyce with me. He knows what took place. He asked me my opinion of himself and wife, and I believed I answered in not very complimentary terms. He wanted my candid opinion— I gave it. He asked me tjo write him a play, for which he would pay. 1 declined. He asked me to stay to dinner. I declined. He asked me to have champagne. I declined. So much for Mr. Tavares. So far as " slating " goes I have often had occasion to "slate" Mr. Hoskins when he played out of his line. I have been in Auckland now seven years, during which time I been connected with the press. I was connected with the Daily News and Telegraph at home for some five years, and never had my character assailed in any way. I can appeal to the whole theatrical profession of Auckland as to the truth of my criticisms on actors generally, I care, not whether they be "Stars "or "Supers." I might say in conclusion that just before Mr. Hoskins left I.told him I thought he ought to give a charitable peformance previous to his departure. On my suggestion he and Miss Colville performed in aid of the fundsof the Par-, nell Orphan Home and the Ladie3* Benevolent Society. The result was £42, divided between these two charities. I don't know whether this looks like bribery. I should have written to you before but for certain reasons whioh I need not mention. Trusting that in justice to me you will insert this —I am, &c, John J. Utting, Netu Zealand Herald.

[We should be sorry to do anything that might be in jurious to Mr. ITtting, and have much pleasure iv affording him an opportunity of making the foregoing explanation.—Ed. E.S.]

ASPHALT.

|To the Editor of the Evening- Stab. Sib,—-Would yeu allow me space in your widely circulated paper for a few words in reply to Mr. Hobbs' letter of Thursday evening regarding the asphalt petition. He saye that I and the party who got up the petition (for I am the only one personally interested), but that I deny ; also, that I was adopting unfair means to attain my object by stating that there are certain parties in the employ of the City Council who are pecuniarily interested in stone flagging being carried out, which statement I also deny. Now, sir, the petition was given to me to take round for signature ; as the party who drew it- up had no time to go themselves ; and as it interested me I think it was my duty, and I appeal to the parties to whom I went whether I made use pf any unfair means to induce them to sign ? for I deny making use of any. Some time before the petition was got up I went into'Mr. Mason's (hairdresser) shop, and asked him if he was in favour of asphalt pavement or flagging, to which he said that he had not made up his mind, but that he would be for the best, whatever that would be. Some conversation followed, in which he said that Mr. Anderson had said he could not recommend asphalt for the use of the footpath, as the sample in Wyndham street was all in

holes. I said it was false, and that it was different from what Mr. Anderson told me. £ also told him that I was informed that Mr. Anderson was interested in flagging, inasmuch as if the streets are to bo flagged his brother* in-law would get the squaring of the flags; and Mr. Mason said that altered the question. I also told Mr. Mason not to believe me or Mr. Anderson in the matter, but take a walk up Wyndham street, and see if there were any holes, and judge for himself. He said he had merely told what he had heard, and I sai^ I told him what I had heard. And now I as) Mr. Mason did I use any underhand way t&; induce him to sign when I brought the petition to him ? (for he was the only party to whom I mentioned anything concerning any one in the employ of the City Council, and that was under provocation). Did I not tell Mr. Mason not to sign except he was persuaded in his own mind that asphalt was the very thing we want ? Mr. Editor, I might say more were it not that have already trespassed too much on your valuable space. — I am, &c, MoBBISON, asphalter.

THE NEW MAIL CONTRACT.

To the Editor of the Evening Stab. Sib, —I read your article last evening on the new mail contract with great _ interest, but cannot agree with you that it will make Auckland the centre of commerce in the South Pacific. As a mail and passenger line it will now stand on a much*more secure basis than when entered into in an absurd spirit of domination, depending on fancied privileges in carrying mails through the American Continent, and by means of coercing the Australian colonies. It is well that this costly and silly error has been' retraced, and that we are now to work in connection with Victoria. But so far as the commerce of the Pacific is concerned the position of Auckland is only that of Honolulu or Pango Pango—. on the highway; but certainly not fe a terminus. The supremacy will now remain to be contested between Melbourne and Francisco —two large rich markets between which our own prospects cannot admit of doubt. In the interests of commerce a branch service connecting Auckland equally with San Francisco, but keeping it in close and constant communication with the vast group of Islands of which it is the natural centre, and making it the sanitorium of the tropics, would have been a measure less showy but far mow statesmanlike and wise. I say nothing of the difference in cost, although a very few years of the saving would amount to no mean sum. What I begrudge most is the great outlay which will only place Auckland between the upper and nether millstone so far as the com merce of the Pacific is concerned. Nor do I like to see American vessels subsidised to ruin our coasters, while their own protective laws prohibit them from even purchasing vessels built in other countries. What Sydney, the present '' centre of commerce " in the islands, may do, it is impossible to say; but we may be certain she will not allow herself to lose a trade the value of which she fully apprsciatei, and which Melbourne has long been anxious to share with her.—l am, &&o f COMMON Sense.

To the Editor of the Evening Star.

Sib, —The thanks of the Queen street peti tioners for asphalt are due to you for ths advocacy you : have afforded their cause. 1 for one sent for Mr. Morrison, and told him I would sign a petition. I then asked him to get one up, and to see the various parties interested in Queen Btreet, and informed him at the time that personally I was too busy to go round ; had I done so it might have had some additional names thereto. The City Board, however, having decided to have Queen street flagged, why don't they set about it ? Call for tenders, have it done, and rate the pro perties with it ; why should each individual be put to the trouble, and naturally addi tional expense, to do his small piece. It stands to reason a contract for the whole would be taken at a proportionably less rate s and tbe material then would be" uniform. On a recent visit to England I had occasion to notice the beautiful regularity of numberless streets laid with asphalt, both in America and England, and that in London they were laying it down in Gheapside, the Strand, &c, not merely on side walks but the main streets. I presume, however, anything I say will be of no avail, the matter being pre-determined.: But why not do away with the perishable, ex pensive, and miserable tinkering of scoria ash, and have all the side walks within the city limits done at once with asphalt, and relieve; the standing reproach they are to ourselves, and. render the place habitable to visitors. Fear? ing to exceed the alloted thirty lines I must conclude. —I am, &c, Geo. S. Gbaham.

P.S.—I wish it to be perfectly understood that Mr. Morrison is a perfect stranger to myself, and that I solicited his services, not he my signature.

To the Editor of the Evening Stab. Sib, —Will you do me the favour of allowing me a few lines in reply to "An Elector's" letter which appeared in your issue yester day evening. Your correspondent is quite correct in saying that I promised to address my constituents on my return from Europe. I intended to do so during my present visit, but have been prevented from ill-health. I have been under medical treatment since I .have been here, and Dr. Stockwell, who is attending m«, has strongly advised me not to undertake the exertion of addressing a public meeting; in fact lam quite unable to do bo. When I was in Auckland, on my way to Austrft-, lia, I was expecting to leave from day to daj, f and so would not give the requisite notice. 11l had returned to New Zealand from Melbourne by way of the South I equally intended, coming to Auckland before the session. I hope this explanation will satisfy my c°n" stitnents. —I am, (fro., Jr/irr/S Vooei.

Auckland, May 4, 1872.

THE STAMP ACT.

" I had rather be a dog, and bay the moon, Than such a Soman."

—Julius Cmsar.

To the Editor of the Evening Stab, Sib,—With reference to " Enquirer's" letter in your issue of last night I may state that informers of breaches of the Stamp Act »m entitled to half the fine inflioted, but that as far as the late case is concerned I do not think the informer Williams was actuated by pecuniary motives. If he was, I must say that ten shillings is a trifling sum to obtain in return for the odium which is necessarily "^fA attached to actions of that nature. -*I^#A Williams stated that he informed the day after he lost an action in the Resident Magis trate's Court, it may fairly be presumed Jfchafc his principal reason was his being compelled by the magistrate to do what was right and just.—l am, &c, Bbutus. May 4, 1872.

A "Chicago sufferer" who made New Year's calls in Milwaukee had his cardr artificially smoked to remind his hosts of the great fire. A Pennsylvania prima donna is said to be I possessed of a vocal range .' six octaVes abovo the screech'of a lost Indian."

THE EVENING STAR, SATURDAY, MAY 4, 1872.

2



QLSON'S TOMATO SAUCE. The mmense success attending the introduction of this new local industry will alone testify to the high estimation in which it is held. During the last year the proprietor was scarcely able to supply the targe demand, and has in consequence made extensive alterations and additions to his Factory, so as to be enabled to keep the market well supplied. one who values health and appetite should be without a supply of this really health-restoring and agreeable condiment. Sold everywhere in Bottles with the name of H. OLSON on wrapper and stamped on bottle and per. Auckland, 10th February, 1872. __ ______ . , WANTED KNOWN.—Just opeined, ex Naomi, a Choice Selection of Gentle man's Undershirts in Merino, Silk, &o. ; also-, New Hats.—S. Coombes' City Clothing Mart, 80, Queen street. -Tjv mO SHIP-BTJILDEBS AND j^m^ A OTHEES. tSSBSIgSg* Tenders will be received at the office of the undersigned for EEPAIES and ALTERATIONS to the schooner THREE BROTHERS. Specifications to be seen at the office, and Tenders to be sent in before 4 p.m., Bth inst. GEORGE THOENE, Jitnb., & CO. Fort street, Auckland, 4th May, 1872. AUCKLAND VOLUNTEERS. THE Members of the various Corps are " respectfully invited to attend the funeral of the late Volunteer JFuxjames, of No. 1 Royal Company. The Funeral will leave his father's residence on Monday, at 3 o.m. J. HEEBEET BUENS, Capt. Com. No. 1. Company, A.B.V.



A negro prisoner in Georgia pounded up some glass and then proceeded to gobblet and commit suioide,