SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

PORT OF AUCKLAND.

SUNSET : This evening, 5.10. HIGH AVATER : This afternoon, 3.15.

STEAMER FOR THE THAMES THIS EVENING. Lady Bowen, 12 o'clock midnight.

DEPARTURES.

Rangatira, s.s., for Tauranga, rover.y _say, ami Napier.

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, next week. For Honolulu : Nebraska, mail steamer, May 16. For Southern ports : Taranaki, to-morrow. For Tauranga: Tauranga, early. _~.,„. For Newcastle: W. C. Wentworth, barque, eaily, Wild Duck, ship, early. . For Hobart Town : Bella Mary, barque, this day. For New York : Chattanooga and Europa, early. For the South Seas : Adventurer, whaler, early. For Kaipara: Jessie Niccol, this day. For Kaipara, from the Manukau : Aurora, schooner, this day.

VESSELS EXPECTED.

flelenslce, ship, from London (sailed Jan. 11). Cleopatra, schooner, from Lyttelton Alpha, schooner, from Newcastle Amphitr'te, schooner, from Sydney Union, brig, from Newcastle. Strathnaver, schoonei-, from Dunediu Coronet, schooner, from Dunedin H.M.S. Rosario, from Sydney Bulwark, ship, from London Lsetitia, schooner, from Lyttelton Star of the South, s.s., from Napier Flirt, schooner, from Wellington Nebraska, mail steamer, from Honolulu Moa, brig, from Sydney.

The p.s. Golden Crown is laid up for clerjiing. She will be sold by auction on Monday next by Mr. Stannus The schooner Jessie Niccol, -Gaptain Yates, cleared outwards at the Customs for Kaipara with a _full general cargo. She will take her departure this after n°The schooner Lizzie Guy entered at the Customs this morning for Warrnanibool, with 1,550 bags P°The barque Bella Mary cleared outwards at the Customs this afternoon for Hobart Town. Passengers : Mr and Mrs. Reillv and two children, Mr. Sherwin, Mrs. Reynolds. The Bella Mary will sail early to morrow morning.

COMMERCIAL.

_U_il.Nl*.

MEETINGS TO COME. Court-house Creek, Coromandel, May 6 St. Lawrence, Grahamstown, May 6 "Yon Tempsky, Insurance Buildings, Auckland, _

p.m. May (5 Dead Secret, Coromandel, May C. Flower of the Hill, Coromandel, May 7 Oriano, Coromandel, May 9. Bright Smile, Grahamstown, May 10 Canadian, Coromandel, May 13 Flying Cloud. Grahamstown, May 13 Pauline, 7, Insurance Buildings, Auckland, 3 p.m.,

May 13. Durham Ox, Grahamstown, May 14 Foresters, Coromandel, May 14 Foster's, Coromandel, May 16 Bass Rock, Queensferry Hotel, Auckland, 2 p.m. May

17. # Wynyardton, Company's office, Shortland street, 10 a.m. May 20

MARRIAGE.

Wells—Holmes.—-On the 2nd May, by the Rev. Warlow Davies, Mr. William Key Wells, to Miss Holmes, of this city. *

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

THURSDAY, MAY 2, 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."

It will afford general and genuine gratification in the city to learn that an effort is about to be made- to establish a " Freight Company" to conduct the import and export traffic between Auckland and London. The fact that the project has as yet met with the cordial approval of every merchant in Auckland to whom the proposal has been submitted, affords a guarantee of success that may almost be regarded as being beyond question. The class of vessels that for some time have been employed by Shaw, Saville & Co. to carry the merchandise of this city to or fro Ras been of such a character that any chauge can hardly be otherwise than an improvement; while the state in which a large portion of the goods has been usually discharged must prove a strong in centive to the present movement. Where the remedy is so wholly in the hands of the merchants of Auckland the collapse of the present movement would afford such a palpable proof of utter indifference to private as well as public interests as should make Auck land feel ashamed of itself. To say that our merchants can choose the ships that are to bring out to them their consignments is to say what can hardly be disputed; and to say that they would choose the vessels of a company in which they held interests would be giving them credit merely for common wordly prudence. If therefore the merchants of Auckland can be induced to merge any little differences that may exist among them, for the common good, and take, every one, an interest in the proposed company, not only will they be better served, being their own servants, but beyond a question the venture must be one of great profit. If it is true, as asserted, that a vessel like the Caduceus would be purchasable for an amount equal to her receipts in a single trip, our local merchants might soon have a nice little commercial marine of their own ; and now that the great works of the colonising scheme are just beginning, a, prospect of freights is presented surpassing anything even in the past. Surely our merchants will have public spirit and regard for private interests sufficient to impel them to grasp the opportunity presented, and if by fair and straightforward pro posals they can induce the importers of "Wellington, JSapier, &.., to unite with them in the formation of a " North Island Ereight Company," it is impossible to fix a limit to the extent of -the future success of the

company, *■ A meeting, it will be observed, is convened for to-morrow evening to consider tbe subject, and we would call on tbe merchants of Auckland to be true to themselves and to the city, wbose commerce is in their bands, and to so firmly and broadly lay tbe basis of this important commercial undertaking .hat it will prove a genuine and a lasting benefit, to tbe country.

It has been sensibly said that Qui s' excuse, .' accuse, and Mr. Rogan has exemplified the adage. In this morning's issues of our two local contemporaries this gentleman says *-hat he did not furniih us with the information respecting tho " Norman Romance," as pub lished yesterday in the Star. Mr. Rogan has acted inconsiderately in making such a state ment. We hei resolved that we should not reveal the sources of our information, but we had not calculated on Mr Rogan making such a bold and daring assertion. Even yet we feel bound in honour, nor shall wo be tempted to give an unqualified denial to his statement. Neither the public, nor any mem ber of it had a right to demand from us the sources of our information, and Mr. Rogan might have relied on us that no pressure, not even that of the Supreme Court, would have wrung the secret from us. Let Mr. Rogan and the public now settle the matter between themselves. But for that gentleman's injudicious action the public would have been indulging in that pleasant myth that the " Spirit of journalism" is a Bhadowy formless thing that penetrates key holes, and can discover secrets by reading documents in the dark recesses of secret drawers, gaining information by com munion in dreamland with the spirits of sleepers—an all-pervading, all-seeing, all knowing, mysterious power, unconfined by apace, unfettered by restraint in any form. Ab to the correctness of our statements of the case we may say that the public oan verify our text of telegram and affidavit^ on paying one shilling to the Registrar of the Supreme Court, and there perusing the original documents, of what our columns communicated to the publio.

| The controversy about the Licensing Bench and the Widow's Son is appropriately wound up by affording to the "Widow's Son himßelf" one word of reply in explanation. He says :— " It has been told me that many of your readers are under the impression that the letter in question was written by the Widow's Son at Newton. Such, sir, is not the fact, and I trust tbjsfejn case inquiries are made of you that you will make the matter right by telling inquisitive people that the letter in question was written by a widow's son who's mother was of more ancient date than the poor widow of Newton, and I may add that in my mother's time widows and their sons were more respected than they are at the present time,—-I am, &0., A Widow'h Son Myß_u»."

We have received the following letter from a correspondent signing himself " Staff" with reference to the recent Volunteer Court of In quiry :—"Sir,—-I was much surprised to read in your issue of Tuesday that a Court of Inquiry had been held in this oily, and the Press excluded, and as you trrly obse: ye that where such is tho cisc it is meant to conceal matters which should not be divulged to the public. However, you have published the proceedings, and I wish to draw attention to one point which certainly has astonished me, viz., cadet companies have to pay their drill instructor when he :% an officer of the permanent staff, aud as such paid for this service. 1 can hardly believe it! Mr. Editor, is this a fact ? Haslem states ' that he neither was employed or paid by any one for diilling the College Cadets.' Against this Mr. Baird produces Haslem's receipt for payment for his services for the last quarter of 1871. Facts are stubborn things, but thore is no getting over the receipt; and Haslem was paid. The question is, What became of the money ? as under no circumstances was either Haslem, or his superior officer, entitled to charge any thing for such duty, they being paid to perform it. I recollect the speech of the Defence Minis teratthedistribufcion of prizes to the Volunteers in 1870, when alluding to the Cadets from Southern provinces, he trusted that Auckland would follow the example set them, and that everything in the way of instructors, &C, to foster so desirable a movement would be furnished by Government. I would advice Mr. Bah*d to call on the Govern ment to refund the money paid by him for drilling the College Cadets—this will discover whether it has been credited to the Government or not, and all cadet or other companies who have been drilled by the Government Instructors, and paid for the same, to follow the example. The Hon. D. Maclean is I believe in town," and for one moment I do not believe that he was aware of such a system being carried on as this that has leaked out at this Co.-t of T lqr'iy.— I enclose my card."

We have had the pleasure of being inter viewed by a very pretty deputation from the ladies resident in Cook street west, imploring us in that winsome way which ladies know to be all-prevailing, that we should use our influence in their behalf with the City Council. It appears that tho excavations at present proceeding in Cobk street west, between Hobson street and Nelson street, and which proceed and cease according to the weather, have left the street in an nlmost impassable condition for pedestrians. Themannerin which youngladiesareoblig.dtoproceed.holdingonby the fencing while perched upon a narrow lodge with a yawning gulf of mud beneath, is some thing awful to contemplate. But really looked atas a general question this indifference to tho comfort and convenience of citizens while streets are being cut away is rot creditable to the Council or to their Clerk of Works. Probably one load of scoria a3h as a temporary provision would in the case in question obviate all this difficulty. Such convenience was afforded at the head of Wakefield street and in Symonds street, and while the cuttings there aro proceeding foot passengers can proceed along with comfort and perfectly dryshod. It may be that there are influential residents up there, but as a pound or lwo constituted the whole expense, and as the third of that amount would be sufficient in Cook street, we trust that Mr. Anderson w s'! see to the matter. It affords us much pleasure to be the champion for the ladies, and as the deputation with true diplomacy spoke of our " widely-cir culated," " popular," " influential," &c, &c, wo are bound to do our utmost for our friends and admirers in Cook street.

A preliminary meeting of the Essay and Discussion Class, V.M.C.A., will take place at tbe rooms, Wellesley street, this evening at 8 o'clock. The business to be brought forward will be adoption of rules, election oi officers, &c, and preparation of a programme for the winter session. About thirty names have been already enrolled, and all who feel in terested in tho matter, and desirous of joining, are invited to attend.

A meeting of the Gymnasium Club was held hst evening, G. Yon der-Heyde, Esq., in the char. Several rew members were proposed, and it was agreed f. havo a more regular attendance of members at the gymnasium during the winter evenings to. praotise in athletic exercises. A hope was expressed that the institution word receive better public support. Notice is given by advertisement that all rates due to the Karangahape Highway Board must be paid on or before the 14th day of May. The City Hall will be opened on Monday evening next by the Collins, Carroll, and Bent Excelsior troupe of male and female minstrels.

SUPREME COURT.

SITTINGS IN BANKRUPTCY.

THIS DAY,

Before his Honor Sir George A. Arney, Chief Justice. A sitting in Bankruptcy was held at 11 o'clock this morning before the Chief Justice. The list contained four cases for adjudication, which were dealt with as follows :— IN BE PETEB MITCHBLi. Mr. J. B. Russell (on behalf of Mr. Keetley,) applied that this case might be adjourned. There was, he believed, no op position in the estate. The 30th May was fixed for hearing. IN BE JAMES DAMP. For the bankrupt Mr. Rees asked that an adjournment might be granted. The Court consented, and put it down for the next sitting in bankruptcy—3ofch inst. IN BE C. GILIIGAN. Mr. Rees for bankrupt; Mr. J. B. Russell to oppose. It was agreed between counsel to apply for an adjournment. His Honor c.nsented, and June 6 was fixed ,at the day of hearing. IN BE H. G. C. NBES. Mr. Rees for bankrupt; Mr. Hesketh was instructed by Mr. Brookfield to oppose on behalf of Michael Corcoran. Bankrupt was a contractor; he had pur chased sawmills at Tairua for £6000, by bills, etc. To get relief from these bills and

expenses incidental thereto he now sought protection from this Court. His liabilities on September 1 were stated to be £6307 35.; assets, £20. Had received since, £90; expended, £90. Hie liabilities therefore remained at £6287 3s. Mr. Hesketh examined the bankrupt on various matters connected with his transac tions. His Honor declared bankrupt to have passed his last examination. Mr. Rees applied for his discharge. Mr. Hesketh opposed. Mr. Rees made a reply. Under the circumstances of the case his Honor did not think ho could do otherwise than order bankrupt's discharge. Order made accordingly. [Left sitting.]

POLICE COURT.

THIS DAY

Before J. M. Dargaville, Esq., and W. S. Graham, Esq., Justices. DRUNKENNESS.

Thrro drunkards were fined in the usual penalty. One of the men had to be assisted into the dock by his fellow-prisoners in con sequence of having broken his wooden-leg in his drunken orgies. A NEEDY M_N. George Turner was charged, under the Vagrant Act, with an offence as set down in the charge sheet " for having insufficient lawful means of support in Auckland on the Ist May." The poor fellow appeared half witted, and did not seem to understand the proceedings. The Court sentenced him to one month's imprisonment. ALLEfI-ED CATTLE STEALING-. Robert Lamb was charged on a summons with having on or about the Bth Mar.eh last feloniously stolen one ox, of the value of £10, the property of Edwerd Charles Frost, at Ararimu. Mr. Brookfield prosecuted. Mr. Joy, L.L.8., defended. E. C. Frost, settler, residing at Ararimu, deposed on oath as follows : I possessed prior to the Bth March a fat bullock of a red and white color, with white face. It was on the run. I Lave not seen a similar animal for at least three years. I saw it last on or about the day named, although both myself and brother searched for somo days for it as soon as it was missed. I had had the bullock about a year and a-half. On the Bth March March I saw tho accused with one Kelly within five miles of my house, driving three horned bullooks in the direotion of my houso, or rather from Helensville towards Riverhead. To Mr. Joy: They did not have my bullock in possession when 1 saw them. My bullock bore no visible brand. My brother is not here. James Fox, who demanded his expenses, but was not satisfied, deposed : I reside at Lucas' Creek and I am a bushman. At the beginning of March I worked for Maurico Kelly, about four miles from Frost's plac_. Kelly has a stockyard there. I saw Kelly and Lamb driving some cattle. I cannot say which direction they were either going or coiming as there are so mauy tracks. Do not know how many cattle they were driving, nor do I know the desc Iption, but I think there were four ; one was a poley bullock with a red and white face. To Mr. Joy : Never saw Frost's poley bullock, and should not know it from any other. Edward Askell, when asked if he knew the nature or value of an oath, said he did not, all he wanted to know was who was going to pay him his expenses. [Laughter.] In reply to the Court he further said that he should not expect any punishment at all hereafter if he gave false evidence. He was then sworn, and made acquainted by the Bench with his responsibilities. He pre varicated very much in his evidence, for which he was severely examined and threatened with the consequence by the Crown Prosecutor. His evidence threw no additional light on tho case, and he was reprimp ided by the Bench for the manner in which he gave it. Thomas Kelly deposed that he wc it with the accused to Helensville on the 29th February and returned next day ; did not go afterwards. Assisted him to drive three head of cattle on the Ist March through Ararimu to Kelly's bush ; then went on to a stockyard ; six miles further on the cattle became mixed with a number of others while they stayed to take some refreshment. They afterwards drove them on to the Wade, and met somo other cattle belonging to his father, amongst which was a red and white poley bullock. He had a deal with Lamb for the poley bullock, aud drove the cattle to tho stockyard to separate them. Lamb then took on tho go'ej that he oxchanged. At this stage of the proceedings Mr. Brookfield intimated that he would not press tho prosecution any further. The charge was consequently dismissed. This concluded the bueiness.

PITT STREET SUNDAY-SCHOOL ANNIVERSARY.

The sixth annual public tea meeting in con nection with the Pitt-street Wesleyan Sunday school was held last evening. There wai a very large attendance of parents and friends. A sumptuous tea was provided. Afterwards a public meeting was held in the Church, the Rev. Mr. Rigg occupying the chair. After a preliminary hymn, and a few intro ductory remarks from the chairman, the secretary read the annual report, by which it appeared that there had been an increase of scholars during the past year. There was, however, a great want of teachers, the superintendent and secretary frequently being compelled to take charge of classes. The scarcity of teachers applied more to the morning than to the afternoon. The library required further augmenting, although 120 books had been added during the past year. Other requirements, including the want of separate clasa-roomi, were also mentioned. The number of scholars attending the school was :—Boys, 160 ; girls, 180 : total, 340. The Rev. W. 0. Oliver moved the adoption of the report, and Rev. J. J. Lewis seconded the motion. Mr. R. Arthur, the superintendent of the school, gaTO a summary of the pro ceedings of the year', labours, and appealed earnestly for increased help during the ensuing year. The Eev. Mr. Macniccol also addressed the meeting.' The proceedings were greatly enhanced by ■ tne choir rendering some selections of music i during the evening. The following are the ladies who furnished trays, and presided:—MesdamesC. Arthur, R. Arthur, Buddie, Caley, Henderson and Spraggon, Green, W. White, Welsman and Rhodes j also, two trays, furnished by the girls' and boys' bible classes, were presided over by two "of the female teachers. Several other friends subscribed cash in lies of trays. The whole proceeding was a great success, and officers, teachers, and aU encouraged to labour earnestly for the future. A vote of thanks was accorded to the ladies, and the meeting closed with the benediction. ■

TELEGRAPHIC.

SPECIAL TO THE STATE.

Grahamstowk, May 2, 3 p.m. A yield of 58 ounces has been obtained from 25 tons of stone by Swandon's (Tookey's). The Nonpareil Company started crush ing to-day. The machinery i 3 working well. Mining is almost at a standstill. Wo powder is obtainable at the Thames at any price. As much as 2s. per pound has been offered thi. morning. There is considerable dissatisfaction with the con tracting merchants. The Caledonian mine itself is right' Several contracts have been stopped for want of powder. Gk>ld is showing in the 1 specimen vein. The Enterprise leaves at three o'clock, taking the Crown's passengers.

[Per GbbvixT'E's Teleo-ram Company.]

WELLINGTON.

Thursday, 2 p.m. The Wellington Independent to-day says that they have private reasons for believing that Greville's telegram relative to the terms of the Victorian Mail Con tract are substantially correct.

BLUFF.

Thursday morning

Captain McLean, of the s.s. Albion, is suffering severely from rheumatism, and is unable to move without assistance.

The Albion discharged 100 tons cargo, and sails for Port Chalmers to-day.

LYTTELTON.

Thursday.

The s.s. Phoebe arrived from Dunedin this morning. She sails for tho North to-day. Colonel Harington inspected the Christ church Volunteers to-day. The firing was good. The vent of one of the Armstrong guns blew up, and the spectators had a narrow escape.

DUNEDIN.

Thursday, noon

It has been decided to give a dinner and testimonial to Mr. B. Cargill prior to his departure for Europe.

A petition against tbe Moa Flat sale, bearing 2,000 signatures, has been forwarded to his Excellency the 3overnor.

Smith, the editor of tho Australasian, is lecturing here on spiritualism.

Favourable accounts have been received from the Martin bay settlers, who are doing well. The crops are looking ex cellent.

INVERCARGILL.

Thursday, 2.30 p.m

The weekly half-holiday system was inaugurated to-day. It has been generally observed.

NELSON.

Thursday, 1.30 p.m. The races have been postponed till

to-morrow

MELBOURNE.

April 24. The Parliament meets on the 30th inst. The advocaces of the Permissive Bill are agitating the subject. The trial of the Rev. Mr. Abraham and his wife for cruelty to a child-servant has resulted in a verdict tantamount to " not proven.". There is great dissatisfac tion in consequence. Mrs. Davis has been found guilty of at tempting to poison her husband. Sentence is deferred pending the consideration of a point of law reserved. Street, her paramour, is now under trial as accessory. Dickie is indicted for the murder of Henry Pensam, at Daylesford. He is under trial at Castlemaine, and there is little doubt of his conviction.

Arrived —Macquarie, from Auckland

SYDNEY.

More gold has been discovered. A forty-eighth interest in Paton's claim has been sold for £1700.

The barque Mary Hamilton has been purchased by a Melbourne firmfor whaling purposes.

THE VOLUNTEER CHRONICLE.

The Scottish Volunteers met last evening for parade. They wore for the first time their new kilts! The uniform is of good material, and has an imposing appearance.

The usual monthly inspection of the Auck land Rifle Brigade and Cadets will take place to-morrow evening in the Drill-shed, at half past seven o'clock. The usual weekly battalion drill of the Royal and Victoria Companies and Cadets, and Hobson Company, will be held in the Drill»shed this evening at half-past seven.

The usual monthly inspection of the Onehunga Rifle Volunteers took place on Monday evening last. Neither the attendance nor smartness in drill (this applies to all ranks) was up to the regular and high standard of the Company. It iB but fair to add there has boen no real drill for some two months back.

PRINCE OF WALES THEATRE.

The attendance was good last evening at this theatre. The performance commenced with the laughable farce, "Taming a Tiger," after which the concert followed. Mr. Simonsen repeated his celebrated singing bird imitations on the violin, and was loudly applauded. Madame Simonsen appeared in the miserere scene from "il Troyatore," her rich and powerful voice appearing to great advantage. The part of Manrico was undertaken by a gentleman amateur. The remainder of the programme was most successfully carried out. Another farce ("The Dead Shot") concluded the performance.

AUCKLAND PRESBYTERY.

A pro re nata meeting of the Presbytery of Auckland was held yesterday in St. Andrew s Church, commencing at 11 o'clock. There were present: Rev. T. Noirie (Moderator), Rev. Messrs. D. Bruce, J. Mackay, R. F. Macnicol, J. F. McKenzie. Elders : Messrs. J. Dingwall, J. Y. Stevenson, R. Sommerville, and A. Thomson. A call was presented from the Presbyterians of the Whau, Riverhead, &c, to Rev. D. Hamilton, which after being sustained by. the Presbytery, was accepted by him. It was resolved that the clerk should serve the edict on Sunday, the 12ch instant, and that the Presbytery should meet at the Whau on Tuesday, the 21st, at 3 o'clock,, to induct the Rev. Mr. Hamilton, and that Mr. McKenzie should preach on the occasion, and that Mr. Bruce should induct and deliver the charge. Mr. William Mcßae was licensed by the Presbytery to preach the gospel, and a call having been presented to him through the Presbytery from the Presbyterians of Waipu, it was accepted by him, and arrangements made for his induction, as soon as convenient, [ the Rev. J. Wallace and Rev. R. McKinney i to act on the occasion as a Commission of Presbytery. Arrangements were submitted and sanctioned by the Presbytery with refer ence to Sabbath services in the charges of Otahuhu, Mangere, Tarmaki, &c. It was resolved to have public worship in tbe several churches of the Presbytery on, tho 9th inst., the day appointed for general thanksgiving for the recovery of the Prince of Wales. An application was received from Waikato asking for the settlement of a minieter, and offering a guarantee of £250 a year as the local con tribution. Arrangements were made by the Presbytery to supply occasional pulpit ministrations in the meantime.

VOLUNTEER REVIEW.

Now tbat the time is approaching for the grand parade of the year, in which Volunteers of all arms turn out to do honor to Her Majesty, it may not be unadvisable to make & few remarks in regard to the proposed inspection and sham fight. Pre-Bupposing that all the men who will take part iv tbe demonstration have been properly instructed and drilled into a state of efficiency, the first matter for consideration is ,the place in which to hold the review. Various localities have been suggested, particularly the Domain and the North Shore. The first has been already proved unadapted for the purpose, the area being far too con fined, and the North Shore i. but little better, be.idos possessing the additional disadvantage of inaccessibility. There only remains for consideration the ground at Epsom, which seems to be in every respect eminently suited for the purpose. There is plenty of room to manceuvre the 1200 or 1500 men who are likely to be present; and it is by no means necessary to limit the evolutions within the area of one field. Hedges would have to be circumvented and stone dykes and ditches leaped over in actual ■warfare, and there is no reason why some work of this description should not be gone through on the 24th May after the formal business, such as the feu de joie, tbe marching past, &c, and the whole of the One-Tree Hill grounds might become the scene of the mimic warfare. Besides this we have now an effective corps of Engineers, and it would be only putting them to their right use to march them out the previous night, or at daylight the same morn ing, with their intrenching tools, in order that they might throw up intrenchments which might later in the day be held by them and one or two companies of riflemen, and perhaps a gun or two, against the combined attacks of the remainder of the force. This would give a good idea of the difficulties to be encountered in actual warfare, and is quite practicable. As to the distance from Auckland deterring people from visiting the scene of operations and witnessing the military display, this point is rather overdone. It is only four miles from the Post-office, and the road all the way is a good and a pleasant one. It is understood that the Thames men will attend in considerable force if provided with passages ; and it seems hardly too much to expect that, on an occasion like the forth coming one, the Government will make the requisite arrangements. In regard to the attendance of cadets there can be no reason why they should not be allowed to march out with the adult com panies, now that the heavy sword bayonets have been removed from their waists and light carbines placed in their hands ; but it should be remembered that the muscles of the youths are not yet " set," and con« iequently they cannot endure bo long a continuance of atrain as their older com panions in arms. They should therefore be dismissed at an early period of the parade, and allowed to look on for the remainder of the day.

Many other things suggest themselves in re gard to the forthcoming review, and to Volun teer parades and matters in general, but at present room will not admit of further sug gestions being made.

CORRESPONDENCE.

gSTWe do Hot hold ourselves responsible for the opinions expressed by our correspondents.

PENNY READINGS.

To tbe Editor of the Evening Stab. Sib, —I am very much surprised that some person of influence does not make some attempt to start a series of penny readings, or popular amusement, so much in vogue, and so success fully carried out in the other provinces of New Zealand. lam sure that it would be of great benefit to Auckland generally, and be a great source of opposition both to the public-house and theatre ; and also be the means of attract ing a great many who otherwise would be loaf ing about the streets, and becoming a great nuisance to others as well as well as themselves. In my opinion too much cannot be said in favour of such an effort to afford amusement to the poorer classes, and I trast that some person or persons of more influence than myself, for I am a mere nobody, will take the hint from your humble servant, and that we shall have some oheap evening's amusement during the winter months. I am, &c, City Abab. [We have every confidence in believing that when the rules and management of the Mechanics' InstHute will be thrown to the dogs, as we expect they will be in a few weeks, such a public want will be met under the new regime.—-Ed. E.S.]

THE POST-OFFICE.

To.the Editor of tbe Evening Stab. Sib, —I believe you are ever ready to en lighten the ignorant; would you kindly inform me why a letter came to the Post-office, Shortland-street, on the 19fch April, and I did not get that letter till the 30fch of April, I had called and asked for letters twice, and was told there were none. It is not the first time my letters have been kept the same way. Any information on the subject will oblige,; Tours respectfully, C. D. W.

ASPHALT.

To the Editor of the Evening Star. Sir, —I should feel obliged by your allowing me to avail myself of the first opportunity of informing the petitioners in tho asphalt movement in Queen street a. to what I did say in the City Council yesterday. lam reported in the Southern Cross as having stated that "the memorial was signed by the very parties who were interested in the asphalt movement." What I did say was " that the very parties who were interested in the asphalt movement had got the petition up, and were getting signatures to it," and I might have added, were adopting unfair means"" to attain their object by also stating that there are certain parties in the employ of the City Council who are pecunia ily interested in stone flagging being carried out. This underhand way of going about the matter is, I think, to say the least of it, discreditable, as I believe there is no truth in this statement. As to the asphalt question, all [I can say is if a large majority of the owners of property in Queen street wanf asphalt, by all means let them have it. I am, &.., R. Hobbs. [We shall comment on the foregoing to-morrow. Its . charges are simply untrue. Ed. E. S.]

A SUGGESTION.

To the Editor of the EVENING- Stab,

Sib, —No great amount of beneficial influence can'be exerted on our Governmeafc by any mere private efforts —in the Press or otherwise. We often complain that we are ill-governed ; that our money is wasted or mis-spent by our rulers, and the complaint is, I believe, some times well founded. Yet there does not exist among us any thing like a reform association or club to discuss our public affairs, and catechise the representatives of our several districts. I can see no good reason why such a club should not be got up he"c j not for the purpose of any violent and offensive partizan agitation, but principally to seek correct in formation on public affairs from our representa tives, .and to learn in detail how our nicney goes. Any popular organization of this kind would have to be got up by the working-men— the most numerous, and in many respects the most important class in society, and second to none in point of intelligence. You, yourself, mi<»ht give the thing a push, or br.mk the ice ; private persons might be too modest to do so. I am, &c., Repoß-T. [We cordially commend the sug_ estion. Under the shadow of approaching elections, the opinions not only of the Press, but of private electors, are listened to with almost cringing deference. On all other occasions.they are Like shot: fired against the rod-.'? of Gibraltcr.— Ed. E.S.]

AND NERO FIDDLED.

To the Editor of the Evening- Stab. Sib, —I believe his Excellency the Gfovernor leaves to - day for the country to shoot pheasants. Really this is fiddling while Rome is burning. He has returned from a pleasure tour in the native districts, and would not divert from the plea santest route to please the native chiefs. Now the King party is waiting anxiously to see him and heal up the sores of the past, and he is off to shoot pheasants. Thousands are turning their eyes to the new goldfield in the Taupo district. The King and his ministry are waiting for a little tribute to their native dignity; they defer every thing till they see the Governor. A moment's irritation may re-open the breach, and the hopas of thousands of Europeans, and the friendly desires of the native chiefs, may be blighted for years ; but still the Governor must shoot pheasants. I wonder if this aspect of the case will be correctly stated in the despatch respecting the vice-regal progress that is now being so elaborately and so eloquently pre pared for the Secretary of State for the Colonies. Surely a few pheasants might be left for the Governor, and he might spare the time to go up the Waikato and seal a per manent peace with the native " clans." Yours, &c, Obsebveb.

THE LIQUOR CONTROVERSY SUSPENDED.

To the Editor of the Evening Stab. Sib, —Will you permit me to say that I con cur with Mr. W. E. Sadler in thinking the liquor controversy a great public nuisance, and that we have all had our fill of it for the present. But there is a greater public nuisance still of which we are not likely so soon to get rid —I. mean the drunken men and women who infest our streets, and, so many of whom figure every morning at the Police-court. The drunkards' list is a standing dish set before us every morning (by the press) to our great disgust. Till that vanishes from our view or becomes less of a public nuisance than it is, the liquor controversy, we may rest assured, will soon again crop up, however distasteful it may be tj Mr. Sadler and others. I am, &c, John Wood.

CITY CONTRACTS.

To the Editor of the Evening Stab.

Sib, —As I was a tenderer for quarrying, spawling, and carrying to tbe machine at Mount Eden, and another party (James Grace) is the successful candidate at 2s. 5Jd. per yard, and my tender was 2s. 3d., I want to know what is the reason my tender was not accepted? If you or any member of the City Council could furnish me with the reason I shall feel greatly obliged. As there were no securities required, only money, I furnished all that was required up to this morning, when I received my deposit back. Yours, &c, Jakes McLeod. [We shall enquire into the subject. A good dea relative to the works of the Council requires ventila tion, notably the "carrying."—Ed. E.S.]

i To the Editor of the Evening Stab. I Sib, —Can you iaform me what has become of ' the Auckland Rifle Association ? Does it still I exist or not ? Are its memberi to have a meet ing this season; or is it intended to let its proceedings commence next season ? All sorts of reports are circulating relative to the association aforesaid. Perhaps some one of your numerous readers can give some reliable information respecting it. It is to be hoped that as a large portion of the time for target practice has been allotted to its members, the association will not be allowed to exist in name only ; if such is, however, to be the oaso _ perhaps it would be bettor to appropriate fnV time now allotted to the members of the asso ciation to some of the Volunteer Cadet Corps, 7 Corps, as they appear to have none too much for practice at the butts. I am, &.., Membeb A.R.A.

EVENING STAU, THURSDAY, MAY 2, 1872.

2



The following are the current calls and dlvidf payable in the companies named below :— dividend Moanatairi .. - .. 0 10 0 May 5 Thames 0 10 0 May 3 Tokatea 0 5 0 May 6 CAXLS Central Italy .. ..010 May 2 Lucky Diggers .. - .. 0 0 3 May 3 Green Flag .. ..006 May 4 George Stephenson ..060 May 4 Sailor Prince .. ..010 May 6 Van 0 0 6 May 8 Aurora 0 10 May 8 Ravenstock .. ..003 May 10 Tiki .. ..006 May 18 Durham Ox .. ..006 May IS North Devon .. ..010 May 25 Ravenstock .. ..003 May 30



Tjl I IST A L NOTICE. RELINQUISHING BUSINESS. R. HOBBS Having disposed of the greater part of his Summer Stock of Drapery and Clothing, will now, for a few weeks longer, offer the whole of his Large Stock of Winter Goods, consisting of Winceys, French Merinoes. Flannels, Blankets, Alloa and Fingering Yarns, Wool Scarfs, and Woollen Hosiery in great variety. WATERPROOF MANTLES And Jackets for Ladies and Girls, of the very newest shapes, at extraordinary low prices. BLACK FRENCH MERINOES And French Thibett Cloths, at very low prices. BLACK COBURGS And Alpacas, also under value. A VERY CHEAP LOT Of New Corsets. A SPLENDID STOCK Of Gent's Clothing of every description, far under regular prices JOB LOTS . , . And Remnants cleared out at nominal prices. WHITE AND GREY CALICOES, Sheetings, Damask and Damask Cloths, Linens, and Furnishing Goods of the best description at clearing-out prices. THE STOCK m . .;_, _ Must and will be sold ; and as all kinds of Woollen and Cotton Goods are advancing considerably in England, Goods arriving in Auckland after this date will be much dearer. ALL THE NEW GOODS, Ex Wild Duck, will be marked-off at prices to ensure a ready sale, R. H. preferring to do this than selling them by auction. N.B.—A CASE OF ... _, Weir's Celebrated Hand-sewing Machines, with all the latest improvements, at reduced prices. A CASE OF Ladies', Children's, and Maids' New and Choice Black Hats at prices at which they will soon sell Also a New and Choice lot of Boys Caps. A LARGE LOT OF Children's and Girls' Black Cloth and Velveteen Jackets for the Season, at Half-price. E. HOBBS, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL, Upper Queen and Wakefield streets. 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 large demand, and has in consequence made extensive alterations and additions to his Factory, so as to be enabled to keep the market well supplied. No one who values health and appetite should be without a supply of this really health-restoring and agreeable condiment. ■„ , _77±. ■_, _, _ 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 opened out a number of Hats of the newest styles and fashions. S. Coombes, City Clothing Mart, 80, Queen street. "raiTTHAMES ADVERTISER, PUBLISHED DAILY, IS tho oldost established Journal on the Thames Goldflelds, and having the largest circulation is the host medium for advertising. PRICE TWOPENCE. Advertisements and Subscriptions received at the Evening Star Office. THE WAIKATO TIMES. A TRI-WEEKLY PAPER. TO BE PUBLISHED at NEW CASTLE, on TUESDAYS, THUFSDAYS, & SATURDAYS, Subscription :—Yearly (in advance)... 355. ' Quarterly ... *.. ••■ "*• Advertisements and Subscribers' names re ceceived by Messrs Rebd & Brett, Office of the Evening Star, «



[Our correspondent should address her plaint to the Chief Post-master, who we are confident will courteously afford her information and redress.—Ed. E.S.}



An Indian boy, ten years of age, was lately seen begging in La Crosse with a written paper which stated that " the bearer is the mother of four children."