SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

PORT OF AUCKLAND.

ARRIVAL.

Clio, ketch, from Oamaru

DEPARTURES.

IMPORTS.

Per Star of the South, from Levuka : 10 bales cotton, 66" bundles cocoanut fibre, J. S. Macfarlane ; 10 bales cotton, Cruickshank and Co. ; 17 bags cobra, 100 sheepskins, 70 bunches banana.?, GO boxes pines, 3 bags peanuts,3 eases pines, W D. Brewer ; 2500 cocoanuts, Chambers ; 200 bunches bananas, order ; 1 bag peanuts. 3 cases pines, 3 boxes coral, O'Connor; 1 case, McLea, 19 cases pines, 2 casks, Saloman ; 1 cask tar, 1 case, order. Part of original cargo :1£ casks spirit of wine, 1 case, Wilson. Per Success, from Levuka: 21 bags make, Buckland ; SO dozen pine apples, Nathan and Co. ; 30 bunches bananas, order. Per Clio, from Oamaru : 904 bags wheat, J. S. Macfarlane.

EXPORTS.

Per s.s. Hero, for Sydney and Melbourne : SI bales flax and tow, J. R. Roberts ; 73 bales tow, Cruickshank and Co. ; 2 boxes gold (value, £7,000), Union Bankof Austra lia ; 12 bdls empty sacks, W. J. Hurst Sr Co. ; 2 drums paint, Henderson and Macfarlane • For Melbourne—7s bales flax, Watt Bros ; 152 bales flax, Cruickshank & Co ; 4 boxes gold, BankN.Z. ; 2 hhds and 4 qr-casks wine and brandy, S. Brown ; 39 bales fungus, James Ah Kew; 27 bags oysters, J. Hodgman. Per Skimmer of the Waves, for New York : 197S cases kauri gum, 97 bales ilax, D. H. Rolph and Co. ; 1 case, 72 bags gum, 459 bales flax, J. Roberton and Co. ; shipped at Wellington, 34 bales flax, order. Per Mariner, for Noumea, New Caledonia : 48,000 feet sawn timber, 24 coils rope, 5 pgs furniture, J. S. Macfarlane ; 5 cases sauce, Olaon.

The s.s. Hero hauled off the wharf at 2.30 this afternoon. The following is a list of her passengers:—Saloon to Sydney: Messrs A. W. Johnston, A. Evers, E. Percy, G. S. Graham, Lieut. Home, Mrs Saddler, Mrs Johnston and child. Steerage—Mrs Nords, C. W. Meyer, A. Crawford, Wm. Stephen, Jas. Stephen, John Stephen, K. Townley, N. Patterson, J. Nayler, J. Burn side. Saloon to Melbourne :Mr Woods, Mrs R. D. James. Steerage—H. Sellara. P. Donnelly, J. Bissland.

The Clyde schooner, which left for Wangarei 3'esterday, was compelled to run back last night owing to the adverse weather outside.

The Phcebe will not sail for Sydney till "Wednesday noxt, when she will take the Suez mail.

The barque Skimmer of the Waves cleared outwards yesterday for New York with a cargo of gum and flax as per exports. she hauled into the stream this morning. The s.s. Ladybird will leave the Manukau for Southern ports on Monday next. The unloading of the Hero was conducted with great dispatch yesterday, about 500 tons of cargo being taken out by seven ©'clock.

The Clio ketch, Chambers, master, arrived last night from Oamaru, after a good run of eight days. The captain gives us the follow ing account of passage :—Left Oamaru on the 3rd inst. Had moderate S.E. winds to Portland Island, In Poverty Bay on Mon day Bth. Left on 9th. Had strong N.E. winds till rounding east Cape on Thursday morning. Moderate east winds into har bour. Arrived 10.30 last night. The Clio passed the Julius Vogol bound for Opotiki on Thursday evening. She brings a cargo of grain.

The monitor shark caught yesterdoy by Mr McLean and boatman Keane has been to-day exhibited at Mr McLean's shop on the wharf to numerous visitors. The fish is well worth seeing. The exhibition will be open till a late hour this evening. <•■ The departure of the St. Kilda has been postponed till Monday, at 4 p;m. She has been to-day loading with kauri posts and timVer, of which her cargo will mainly con sist. This compact boat is now in a thoroughly restored condition. Her in creased length has added to her symmetry in no small degree, while her carrying capacity has been increased nearly double. Her saloon has been rery handsomely fltted out by Mr Wood, who was the success ful tenderer for the contract, -while the upholstery was supplied by Mr Cranwell and Messrs Winks and Hall. The berths are commodious and well ventilated. The pannelling is finished off in a very artistic manner, the oak graining having been accomplished exceedingly well. The saloon is finished with a flooring of oil-cloth of a very handsome pattern. The seat 3at the table are supplied with horse-hair cushions, and the whole of the fittings are elegant and well arranged. The ladies' cabin contains eight berths, and is very comfortable. It is furnished with every convenience, and can bear comparison with the cabin of almost any steamer that sails from the port. The work manship of the entire fitting-up reflects great credit upon the Auckland workmen who have been engaged upon it. The s.s. Rowena arrived in harbour this morning from Russell at 5 a.m., bringing a small cargo and a number of passengers. The llowena it will be remembered only left thisportforthe Worth on Wednesday evening. She haa on this trip merely gone to Russell and back without calling at the ports in the north of the Bay. The steamer had very thick weather on the passage out, and arrived at Russell at two p.m. on Thurs day, having had to travel slowly all night through not being able to make out the land or lights. Left Russell at 12.30 yester day, and had fine weather all the passage down ; wind E.N.E., and light. Arrived as above. She bring the following passen gers :—Bishops Cowie and Croke, Dr McDonald, Mr and Mrs Carleton, Mr and Mrs H. Williams, Miss Greenway, Mrs and Miss Davies, Mr Woods, Mr and Mrs W. H. Taylor, Mr Middleton, Mr A. Whitaker, Mr Dod ; four in the steerage, and two little girls to be sent to the Industrial Home. These children are daughters of the prisoner who came up last trip. The Rowena brings as cargo— 1 horse, Bishop Cowie; 2 millstones, Mr Baird ; 8 bags gum, 4 bags fish, Mr Thom son; 11 hides, 2 bundles sheepskins, Ireland Bros. —Cruickshank and Co., agents.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under :—

War Thames, on Monday next, at 10.30 a.m. Fo:.' Gisborne and Napier, per Star of the South, on Monday next, at 11 a m Tor Napier and Gisborno, per St Kilda, on Monday next, at 1 p m' I For Taranaki and Southern provinces, per Ladybird, • on Monday next, at 2 p.m. For Russell, "Wangaroa, and Mongonui, per Rowena, ' on Monday next, at 3 p m For Whitianga, Tairua, Tauranga, Opoliki, and Napier (via Tauranga), per Southern Cros.v on Tuesday next, at 3 p m For the undermentioned places, per s.s. Phoebe on . Wednesday, 17th instant, as follows : . I For India, China, Mediterranean ports, Continent ' of Europe, at 1 p.m. For Australian Colonies, at 1.30 p m For the United Kingdom, via Suez (letters specially addressed), at 1.30 p in i FT *fhe via Brindisi, and late lat eletters for Sydney and Melbourne, at 2 p m For money orders and registered letters at n.ion Jfor newspapers, at noon.

For the undermentioned places, per s.s. Governor Blackall, on Monday, 22nd instant, as follows :— For Fiji, Sandwich Islands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 0 30 p.m. For the United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, via fan Francisco, at 0.30 p. m. For money orders, registered letters, and news papers, at 11 a.m. N.B.—The Post-office at Churchill has been re opened. A Post-office will be opened at Whakatane on the Ist January next. (Signed) S. B. Bths. Chief Postmaster.

[Established 1864.]

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13, 1873.

For tho cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future in the distance, And M>« cnod that we can do

We did not intend to comment in our columns upon the election of Mayor, as—the dutjr being one devolving solely upon the Council—the members might with propriety be left to exercise their own judgment in the matter. But our contemporary the Herald has taken advantage of the occasion 1o give further vent to the strong animosity which that journal bears Mr DargavilLe. It is not perhaps unnatural that some sore ness should still be felt by our contemporary in consequence of Mr Dargaville's denouncia tion of that journal and threatened action for libel, during his candidature for the Superin tendency, but it wouldhavebcen wiser to have smothered those feelings and allowed election unpleasantness to pass away with the cause which gave rise to it, than to have "nursed ifca anger to keep it warm" until another opportunity offeree! for venting spite and unmistakable virulence upon a gentle man who undoubtedly earned on a game Btruggle against heavy odds, and was not shamefully defeated. We do not think the remarks coming frsm this quarter are likely to damage Mr Dargavillc in the eyes of the people, and they are scarcely worthy of notice except to expose the want of generosity and unworthy animus that underlie them. The Herald h inconsistent with itself when it advocates Air Isaacs' claims to tliu vacant chair on the ground of long service. Jf such a rule had over guided the Council in its choice of a head Mr Philips, who has ful iillod tho of lice with so much honour to himself and benefit to the city, would not as yet liaye occupied that position, nor could Mr Isaacs lay claim to it, the honour belong ing by right to Councillor Macready. The argument is however merely put forward a.s a catch and disguise. Any member of Council, be he a young or old member, has a perfect right to offer himself for the oflice, and we imagine a much better rule for the guidance of the Council in making their selection is titness for the position than length of service. To say that either Mr Dai'gavillo or Mr Isaacs is not thoroughly well qualified and in ovory way suited for discharging the duties devolv ing upon the Mayor would be absurd. Wohopc to see both of those gentlemen successively till the oflieo, and they will confer honour upon the city in doing so. But under existing circumstances we really think it would be a graceful act to place Mr .Dargavillc in tho chair for the ensuing year without a contest. A gentleman who polled so many city votes as he did in the late .Superintendency contest, and subsequently in City East provincial election, must possess the confi dence of the citizens, and although the Council have propurly the right of choosing their own head they should do so as far as possible in accordance with the wishes of the public whose interests they represent. There are other reasons that could be adduced in favour of Mr Dargaville, of tho two candidates, being returned. It will be admitted that of tho two Mr I >argaville is the more likely to give eclat i» any civic receptions or festivities which we think at this time of day may fairly be expected at the hands of the Mayor of one of the most important commercial centres in tho colonies. Tho means of both would of courne equally warrant such expectation, but we think that Mr Dargavillo would be more at home in such events, and that his tastes and tendencies will he more inclined in that direction. Again it is almost essential that the Mayor should bo a member of the Pro vincial Council considering some of the questions that are pending involving city in terests to a very great extent. Mr Darga ville in the Provincial Council will do more for the city than Mr Isaacs without a seat in that legislature. The honour attach ingto the position of first Mayor of Auckland was conferred upon a member of the in fluential section of the community which Messrs Isaacs and Philips are connected with, and it would but be a proof of the amity and good feeling that prevails between all sections of our community if Mr Isaacs now willingly gave way to one from amongst the other great section of citizens. Really it is asking too much that the city ahould always bo ruled over by a Hebrew Mayor, and while we admit that that com munion is distinguished for worth in every form, and is deservedly respected in Auck land, it is rather much this; and we aro somewhat surprised that good sense, to say nothing of modesty, does not suggest the propriety of not exhibiting an undue grasping and monopolising spirit on the part of one section of the people. Our Hebrew friends may not hear this often, but people feel it and talk of it freely among themselves, and it is not kind nor judi cious to overtax tho feeling of liberality which characterises the people of Auckland. That Mr Isaacs feels the noeessity for all classes of the community being represented in public bodies and sharing in public honours was shewn by his action when Mr E. Isaacs announced himself as a candi date for tho City Council somo time ago, and tho present case possesses even stronger reasons than the one alluded to for the mani festation of a liberal and generous spirit. We hope (before Wednesday) to see Mr Isaacs among Mr. Dargaville's staunch supporters. [Since the above was written we have been informed thatthe present Mayo» is a candidate. Mr Philips evidently desires to rival Richard Whittington, and if he is to be continued in office better at once elect him for life, and save these annual heart burnings. Mr Philips has been an excellent Mayor, but we may have too much of a good thing, and it is not fair to the Council to monopolise a position which every good citizen, and certainly every good Coun cillor is supposed to aspire to. We regard Mr Isaacs' claim as infinitely stronger than any Mr Philips can put for ward. The only solution of the difficulty is by merging all difl'erences in the unopposed election of Mr Dargaville, whose return is, we believe, certain, if the three stand.]

The Rev R. F. Macnicol will conduct divine service to-morrow at the Presbyterian Church, North Shore. Tho Rev W. Shirriffs, of Blenheim, will preach at St. James's Church.

The Victoria Company and Cadets, and N-ival Brigade, with thoir band, held their monthly inspection in the Drill-shed last evening, under Major Cooper. There was a capital muster of all the companies present, from which a battalion of four companies was formed; No. I under Capt Derrom, being the Victoria Company; and No. 2 the Cadeta. Noa. 3 and 4 were tho Navala and their Cadets, under Captain Lcßoy. The Major congratulated the men on their steady and soldierlike appearance. After the inspoc tion the Victoria Company were formed into a hollow square Captain Derrora called Sergt. Edmonds to the front, and presented him with tho " Malteao Cross." The re mainder of tho prizes of the Company's Club will be presented on Tuesday next.

The time when the Onehuuga railway will become available for traffic is surrounded with such a haze of uncertainty that people have almost given over even speculating about it. According to a statement made by the Minister of Public Works the line should have been completed in August last, and from time to time since we have been informed that the happy realisation of many fond hopes was at hand—hopes dating back for years to the time when a locomotive was set on tressles and full steam got up for the amusement of the old Railway Commis sioners, who are understood to have greatly admired the rapid turning of the wheels through the non-resisting air. Sir James Pergusson was to make the opening of the first Auckland line one of the chief duties of his visit to this part of the colony. Flis Excellency came and went, but the line remained un opened. The repeated assurances lately, how ever, that now at least the day was certainly near had revived our flagging hopes, andhis Worship the Mayor, eager that such an auspicious occasion should not bo allowed to pass without suitable recognition, went so far as^ to telegraph to the Minister of Public Works inquiring on what day he should pre pare a demonstration. The reply came to hand to-day, and will not, we fear, be read with much satisfaction by the public. We are indebted to the Mayor for a copy, which id as follows : —" In reply to your telegram of tlte (sth, the Minister of Public Works regrets that after inquiry as to the comple tion of the works he is not at present able to .fix any definite date for opening the One hunga line. J, Knowlks, Under Secretary of Public Works." It would have afforded some modicum of satisfaction if the Under Secretary for Public Works had stated the reason why, and had told us who is chargeable with the gross bungling that lias delayed the opening of this lino, which ought and might neve been in full working order six months ago.

A correspondent, under the initials "J.5.D.," writes complaining of what all respectable people who have occasion to be out at night must be aware is a very great and widely-spread nuisance. Our corres pondent, accompanied by his davghtcr and another young lady, was retunrug from the Choral Jlall the other night, and when passing through Abercrombie-atrcet he was shocked by hearing the filthiest and most blackguard language it is possible to conceive of shouted out by a group of hobble dehoys sitting down at a doorway near Wakofield-street. The language was evi dently intended to be heard by the young ladies, who had no means of avoiding what must have been exceedingly hurtful to their feelings of delicacy. At the corner of Hobson-atrect and Wellesley-street they were .similarly hißultcd. " J.S.D." is not the only ono from whom we have received such complaints ; a lady correspondent residing in the* quiet locality of Sheridan street statos that since tho Good Templar lodge was opened there she has been annoyed and disgusted by being compelled to hear very filthy language given utterance to by depraved persona passing her door, and apparently returning from the locll'c We know that the principles of Good Twnplarism are puro, and such as to discountenance con duct of so vile a character, aud we have re frained hitherto from giving publicity to cur Sheridan-street correspondent's complaint lest tho whole Order should suffer from the disgraceful conduct of a f«w of it.s members ; but we now make allusion to it in order that it may be checked. The time has arrived when the police must take energetic steps to put an effectual stop to thin nuisance, licspcctablc persons can no longer submit to forced participation in the obscenity iudulged in by the scum of tho city. These instances, ho well-known to everybody eJso, can scarcely fail to have come under the observation of the police ; yot[ while tho miserable drunkard is daily hauled up and mulcted in the penalties he has incurred, those wretches, lost to all (sense of decency, are permitted to insult the public with their shameless beha viour. An example made of a few of them would have a very salutary effect, aud we hope it will not be long before those who at present seem to be unncquninted with the fact will bo taught by tho Resilient Magis trate that the laws of society, demand more ligidly temperance of language than they do that abstinence from strong drink which h;is become so exclusively associated in many minds with the "word temperance.

We learn by the Melbourne telegrams that Dr Godfrey Howitt, of Victoria, died at the beginning of the present month. Dr Howitt was a native of Heanor, in Derbyshire, England, und tho oldest brother of William Howitt, author of the " Rural Life of England,"'and about fifty other worka. i)r Howitt was no unworthy unit, ola gifted family, as his botanical researches and ornithological studies shew. He furnished the particulars in theso departments to William and Mary Howitt's beautiful "Book of the Seasons," which has taken a place beside White's /'History- of Sel borne," and JessoV "Gleanings from Natural History." Dr Howitt nettled at what then was called " Port Philip," about thirty years ago and as a scholar and medical man won the respect of all who knew him.

Tho Australian Company of Bell-ringers and vocalists will givo their opening enter tainment on Tuesday evening next in the Lorne-streot New Hall,...■which is plentifully seated and conveniently fitted up for the projected series of conceri/s. The members of this talented company Thave achieved almost unequalled triumphs in the Austra lian colonies, and : okter parts of the world where they have b'e'on, and the music loving people of Auckland will at once re cognize and appreciate their unsurpassed performances in their particular line. We shall be in a better position on Tuesday evening to dilate upon the peculiar merits of this far-famed company of bell-ringers.

The fourth of tho verjr interesting aeries of Sunday evening lectures on the Apostles will take place at the Newton ICirk to-morrow night. Last Sunday evening the Eev Dr , Wallis treated of the character and position of St. James tho Less, particularly dwelling upon his supremary over the other Apostles', including St. Peter, for whom supromacy is claimed. He especially referred to the de feronce paid to St. James by the Jews, and to the passage in the writings of Josephus, characterising him as the " bulwark" of the Hebrow nation. Ho also spoke of the tradi tions regarding St. James's death—that he was thrown from one of the pinnaclea of the Temple, and being still alive was murdered ,as he lay on the ground. The statement by Josephus that the destruction of Jerusalem was attributable in a measure to Divine wrath, evoked by the murder of JSt. James, was spoken of as extraordinary testimony to the worth of a man connected with such an humble and despised sect as* the Christians then were. He explained at some length tho peculiar doctrines of St. James, and dwelt upon the vigour of his character and his stern advocacy of moiality as the basis of religion. To-morrow evening the subject will be " St. James the Greater." Tke Norwich Union Fire Insurance Society's Card Calendar this year is very handsomely illuminated, the centre plate being the same as lust year-old Norwich Cathedral. The card forms an ornament to any office, and will be held in high estimation by business men who are sometimes compelled to han« up wretched placards owing to the lack of a neat calendar.

In compiiahce with an invitation a reporter paid a, visit yesterday evening to the re hearsal of the Electric Star Variety Troupe, Onehunga, where we were most graciously received. He was agreeably surprised to find the marked improvements perceptible since their last performance some months ago, improvements which they must allow us to congratulate them on. The troupe has been greatly augmented by the addition of two really first-class step dancers ; indeed, without any disparagement to Mr Barry (one of them) we may say that his opponent is about the best amateur step dancer we have had the pleasure of seeing in the colony. It is whispered that the manager is endeavouring to secure the ser vices of a young lady to assist in the gymnastic part of the entertainment; and if he succeeds it may safely be predicted that any professional troupe visiting Auckland will have to be careful they are not eclipsed by the "Electric Star." The troupe have taken the hint which we give them on the occasion of their last performance, namely, to place themselves under better management, and they are at present under the direction of Mr W. H. Lowell, and from the careful manner in which he seems to handle the reins there appears nothing to prevent them acquiring a wide-spread fame. We understand they intend performing again on or about Boxing Night. A bumper house should reward their deserving efforts.

The members of the Colonists' Protection League met yesterday at Sceats' British Hotel for the purpo.se of selecting and nominating an honorary secretary in the place of the late Mr S. Kempthorne, when Mr Woolficlil was fixed upon as tho most likely gentleman to fill that important place with satisfaction. Jt was therefore agreed to solicit the services of Mr Woolfield as secretary to the League.

The Hobson Company met last evening at the place of drill, numbering about fifty, and ere put through their task by Lieut. Clifton in a highly creditable manner. We must compliment Lieutenant Clifton on the advanced condition of his company, which does him credit.

The Naval Brigade mustered in full force last evening in the Drill-shed, about seventy members bcint; present, and passed their monthly inspection under the command of Captain E. Le Koy, assisted by Lieut Chap man. Major Cooper, of tho Thames, put the men through the various battalion move ments, and at the close gave them an en couraging address. A special meeting of the brigade was then hold, and Mr Bartlett, photographer, was elected sub-lieutenant in the placo of the late Sub-Lieutenant Wells.

Divine services to-morrow (Sunday), will be held at Newton Kirk, when. Rev Dr. Wallis will deliver discourses, morning, on "Tho Law of Re-action and Relapse in Religion ;" evening, Lectures on the Apostles, No. 4, "James the Greater." At Lome-street, (by Samuel Edger, B.A.)— morning, " The Religion of Faith and Power ;" evening, "On the Early-Closing Movement. Albert-street Congregational Church—sermons, morning and evening, (by Rev T. McOrae, of Waipu). Missionary sermons will lie preached at Edwardes-strec't Chapel—morning, by Rev Mr Tinsloy ; evening, Rev J. Sharp. Sheridan-street— morniug, Rev.l. Sharp; evening, Rev. Mr Tinsley. Cook-stroet Meeting - house— services as usual ; also, at Newton Hall. At Wellesley-street Baptist Church—morning and evening services conducted by Rev It. S. Bunn. At United Free Methodists (corner of Vincent-street) —sermons by Rev G. H. Turner, morning—Light, an emblem of Christian influence ; evening, No more Sea.

On Monday next Messrs Cochrane aud Son will sell by public auction the ground in Queen Btreet lately occupied by the stores of Messrs. Henderson and Macfarlane and Mr J. S. Macfarlane, To capitalists desirous of a safe investment for their mouey this sale offers an opportunity rarely to be met with.q We have had much pleasure in examining a valuable invention by Mr d' Leau for pre paring pulp, suitable for the manufacture of paper, from the refuse of liax. It is well known ,that the consumption of paper of every description is. increasing yearly, ajul that the supply of- linen rags is decreasing. This lias resulted in nearly every influential nation in Europe holding out inducements to procure pulp for the manufacture of paper. England, France, Germany, "Belgium,'' and Holland have placed an almost prohibitory export duty on rags. Paper manufacturers have made munificent offers for the produc tion of cheap pulp, but without material success. The advantages urged on behalf of Mr d' Leau's invention are: as follows :— 1. That great quantities of the refuse of flax have hitherto been thrown away, which can be. utilised by Mr d' Leau's process with advantage to consumers and also large profit to the manufacturer. 2. Owing to the difference in bulk the freight charged on pulp would be less than half that charged on tow. 3. The pulp for exportation is a great deal more valuable than the best linen rags. It is perfectly clean, and the fibre is stronger than that of the pulp made from raps, and will prove more economical than the pulp of raga. We hope that steps will be taken to utilise Mr d' Leau's invention, and make this pulp one of our exports. Our readers will recollect that when Mr Fairclough the tragedian left Auckland, about two months ago, complaints were heard in several quarters of his " man Friday " having neglected to settle accounts which ho had opened with some of the tradesmen of our city. We now hear that a similar easy policy has been pursued with regard to the skipper who waa kind enough to give him a passage to Sydney on his word that he would pay on arrival. The captain alluded to found the eminent tragedian and his com panions very excellent fun on the voyage, but when the time for squaring accounts came ho was again backward, and from what we have heard the captain still mourns his misplaced confidence. Mr Fairclough is an exceedingly good actor, and one of his most successful characters appears to be that of ''The Absconding Debtor." This is not however a role which takes well twice in the same place, and Mr Fairclough if he again visits Auckland might find the part con ducive to another—that of "The Genius Confined. EfFoTwl The meeting of creditors in the estate of the late Mr James Oldham, of High-street failed yesterday, for want of a quorum. On Monday evening next the complimen *:Yl C^ cert of Mr D- R- Fo* will take place injthe ChoraljHall. No pains have been spared to render this concert one of the most suc cessful of the season. AH the principal luminaries of the many musical troupes of Auckland, Parnell, Newton and Dedwood will appear on that occasion, and will form a galaxy of unusual splendour, so that Monday night at the Choral Hall will be one of brightness and melody. In proof of this we need only refer our readers to the programme else where. Mr Fox has been most indefatigable for years past in his endeavours to promote harmony and good-will among the people, and has always been foremost amongst city minstrels m aiding every benevolent move ment m favour of individual cases of benevo lence and distress, and now that he is about to leave-thia part of the colonies for other scenes his old companions rightly think that! he akould not be suffered to depart without a substantial parting recognition of his long and arduous services, s

The free concert of the Good Templars of Auckland last evening was most successful. The new hall, as the old Chapel is designated, was filled with interested spectators. Mr Probert was called to the chair, and after a brief, but practical speech, called upon the Temperance Choir to open the proceedings with music ; the response was the " Battle of Freedom." The choir did not appear in its full strength, but the selections of the evening were sung with much force and judgment under the direction of the able manager, Mr H. Probert. The parody of " Auld Lang Syne," though far inferior in point of merit to the original of Burns, as parodies always are, was very sweetly rendered, the air being the same ; but it is somewhat dangerous to revive by such melo dies mtmoiies of the " Barley Brae." Mr Cutler, a bootmaker, made an excellent speech, and stated that he had been a tee totaller for thirty-five years, and had experi enced many vicissitudes as a wandering shoamaker, both in London and New Zea land, and to the surprise of the young ladies he announced the fact that he was bordering on sixty years, when he looked but thirty live. Mr Cutler is a living evidence of the value of temperate; habits in relation to health and longevity. At the mention of the name of the new convert, Mr Hannaford, there waa a noise as of thunder for some minutes, and clapping of hands ; the audience screamed with joy, and when the venerable speaker appeared on the platform a second furore was produced. Mr Hannaford made a very good speech, temperate, well-timed, and occasionally eloquent. He felt proud of the majestic order to which he belonged, and arjd referred to his unworthiness for the work of templarism, having but recently come over from the camp of the enemy. He spoke of a certain penny journal as the trumpet of Israel, which had blown many a healthful blast. lie spoke with respect of Licensed Victuallers, and would like to see them all turn farmers, and follow the plough. He had now joined the ranks of freedom, and intended to struggle in the bloodless field of Templarism, which rested in the smile of Heaven, and was redolent of joy, peace, health, wealth, and years of human happiness. He considered that one of the mostpitiable sights in the world was thatof an intelligent landlord when comj^olled to stand behind his bar and obliged to listen to the gabble of a poor drunkard. Mr Hannaford had come to the con clusion that there was no middle course to be pursued. He had spoken strongly on the question, and he had a right to do so, having had boundless experience in the shadows of the tavern. Mr Hannaford's speech was loudly cheered, and ho was sub sequently induced to sing an original song, " The Landlord," which was encored. Mi- Madden gave the antiquated reading of the " Bashful Man," which created much laugh ter. This gentleman on his next appearance will give "The Technical Point; or, the Knotty Question." Mr Ewmgton gave a piece from the pen of Oliver Wendell Holmes, entitled "The One-horse Shay," with much appreciation, but rather too hurriedly. Miss Probert sang with much feeling the touching ballad, " Put me in my little bed." Mr Carr, the temperance secretary, gave a recitation, •' Drunk in the Street," and P.W.C. Cole delivered a chapter of his experiences in the Waikato, with an illustration on grass-mowing. Mr Tremain proposed thanks to the chairman and choir, and the concert closed with the National anthem. We might mention further that the juvenile templars test night at the Albert street entertainment hissed the singers, and occasionally behaved in a most discreditable manner, but us one of the leaders remarked to our reporter, " Our young Templars are a rough lot!"

At the conclusion of the evidence in the case Binney c. Craig, before the District Court yesterday, his Worship, Thomas Beck ham, Eaq., reserved judgment until next Court day.

The monthly inspection of the Grammar School Cadets was held in the barracks yes terday afternoon and performed their skirmish ing feats under Sergeant Wainhouso with re markable alacrity, and weie complimented by Major Cooper on thoir brisk and correct movements.

The City Hall Exhibition continues to attract its hundreds of spectators, who without exception expressed their full satisfac tion at iis amusing and instructive features. Mr Gourlay purposes koeping open a short time longer, in accordance with the general wishes of the community, in order that all may have the opportunity of seeing what tfcey may never again see. The Queen's Variety Troupe won fresh laurels last night at the Prince of Wales by their admirable songs and dances, many of them being now to the audience. This is a capital entertainment, the singing of Miss Watson, and the character songs of Mr and Mrs Braham, and Mr Mat Riley being all that could be desired. The comicalities of Messrs O'Brien and Baker were provocative of great laughter. Madame Blanche and Monsieur Hamew successfully performed the trapeze. The programme for this evening promises a change. We have been requested to draw the attention of the City Council to the fact that no dust cart has been through Wynyard. street for a month past.

The only case this morning before Mr Beckham, E.M., at the Police Court, was that of John Drake, who was found drunk last night by Constable Spry, and who had a bruised face. Prisoner pleaded guilty, and was fined 10s and' costs, or the alternate of forty-eight hours' in Mount Eden. His Worship recommended prisoner to take to the natural element of ducks and drakes, which would be beneficial to him in future, and remarked on the decline of drunkenness during the present week, which inspired the hope that society was improving, but which Sergeant-major .Tardy feared was owing to a want of means loor Sir James Fergusson !—he has jumped out of the frying-pan into the fire. Me wrote lately to the Dunedin City Council asking that on the occasion of his approach ing visit to that city he might be spared the inflictions of a procession and triumphal arohes. His request was entertained in due lorm by the sapient councillors of Dunedin and it was decided that there should be no offensive processions or triumphal arches. Wen and good, so far, but now comes the joke. Our telegram says—"lt was re solved, in deference to his wishes, not to receive him with, a procession; but addresses will be read, and the school children will sing." We wonder what Sir James s emotions were on hearing of the change made in the proposed reception. We anouid imagine he must have heartily re pented saying anything about it. It is a clear case of Scylla and Charybdis. He has escaped "the long-drawn train" and tawdry arch, an* comes in for long-winded addresses and the screeching of children. Happy man ! And he will be obliged to say it gives him great pleasure.

The entries for the Papakura Handicap, to be n} u [ on Thursday, January 29, close to-day at 6l S xM P'm" rhia race has tixe lil:)eral amount ot tIOO added to the subscription, which is £5 each horse, bo that ie ia well worth win ning. The spirit of enterprise exhibited by a comparatively small place like Papakura offering such a valuable prize for competition is highly commendable, and wo trust that it will meet with proper response from owners of horses and the public.

LATEST ENGLISH NEWS PER ALHAMBRA.

THE EUROPEAN PRESS SUPPcm-no & SPANISH ATTITUDE ORTS

EXTRAORDINARY EXPENDITURE ay PRINCE ALFRED'S WEDDING X

HOKITIKA.

The Alhambra has arrived. W ay '

LONDON, (Via Sydney,) December! The Spanish attitude of the Virginian* ;' supported by the European Press. Russia proposes to expend a million UDmi the Royal marriage of the Duke of EdinbiH and Russian Princess. s

Competition at the wool sales continue, fairly brisk. Prices are a halfpenny to I penny lower. Capes are most affected Continental buyers are operating cautioualv' Beef, mutton, and tallow are dull. *" Wheat, G7s per quarter. • Leather is quiet. New Zealand fives, £104. Hemp is dull, and declining

THE AUCKLAND BONIFACE.

COMPOSED AND HUNG BY T. E. HANNAFOAD E.SQ., AT LAST NICHIT's TEMPLARS 1 MEETING. ' I'm a landlord and keeps a snug inn Duly licensed to sell beer and mm, Brandy, Hollands, Scotch whiskey and gi n Sherry, port (but it's ted'ous to sum ) ' The folks who at my house do quaff Are all sorts, from squires to a cobbler Some's for stone fences," some "shandy. B«t the most of them shouts for a "nobbier " Ri tol de tol 10l didi day. "

Ev'ry year for my license I pay Fifty pounds to the Government chest • Counsel has two more licensing days ' To get mine renewed (what a peat). There's one hundred and fifty pounds more For rent, besides two for the papers • There's the gas lamp stuck over my door- Think of that you two Shorfcland-street drapers.

See how landlords fork out the cash, Sure it's us who do good to the State • Tomp'rance movements are nothing but trash Fit for those only with a cracked pate. Yet those numskulls at Temperance Hall Would delighted be to see us drove hence Debarred from supplying a " ball," ' We who do so much good for the province. When a ship-load of new-chums arrives Some friends of mine quick step on hoard And begin fright'ning them and their wires Long before that the vessel is moored. Of such conduct as this what I think

In making the new-comers look glum, No matter it drives them to drink, And increases the sale of my rum. Waste lands require clearing no doubt, New-comer 9 should not stop in town ; Both these ends I'll prove we bring about, For some won't budge whilst they've got

a crown. At our houses they spend their cash quick, And when in their fob no more jingles, They're off, as the Yankees say, " slick" To the bush, and commence splitting shingles. Confound those teetotallers' pranks For our liquors inspiring disgust, Recommending for loose cash the banks, And not spend one brass farthing with us New greg shops last Licensing day Were refused—this is really alarming— So if things go on in this way We must shut up, and straight take to farming. ■ ■■■. .-

TELEGRAPHIC.

LATEST THAMES NEWS.

A SURVEY PARTY

AT OHINEMURI

FIRED ON,

SERIOUS ACCIDENT AT THE BRIGHT

SMILE,

GRAHAMSTOWN,

This day. The Scullers Match between J. 0. Jones, of the Union Bank, and Mr Brassey, solicitor, resulted in an easy victory for the latter. The course was from Tararu to Shortland, 3if miles.

Mr J. B. Stoney's house, Parawai, took fire, and was burned to the ground. An accident occurred at the Bright Smile mine to a miner named Richard Owen, who was severely cut and bruised about the head, arms, and body, by the fall of 3 cwt of quartz from the side of the drive where he was working. No bones were brokon. The injuries are not dangerous. West Coast (Tribute)—7o tons stone crushed yielded 51 ounces.gold. Lucknow—lo tons stone yielded 21 ounces. Yesterday a party of men went out from Ohinemuri to survey some land. Mr A. Thorpe, surveyor, accompanied by a native named Te Waru, while survsying eastward of Te Hira's residence was fired on by Horo Papara, a servant of Te Eira, who was with him. They fired three times but did not hit any of the party, who made tracks. Te Hira expresses regret at the occurrence.

Horo Papara says there was no bullet in the gun, and it was done merely to warn them.

The sculling match created great excite ment. Jones wrists failed him about half way, leaving him out of the race. A con siderable sum changed hands on the result. The Ohinemuri question is still agitating the public mind, but nothing more is heard of the rumoured armed party going. Prospectors are going up in spite of prohibitions. The Advertiser recommends quietness, and that a deputation shall con sult the Superintendent on the subject.

TAURANGA.

This day. The L*n» sailed for Opotiki last night at ten aad the Southern Cross this morning at 9.30. Passengers— Meadames Kell, Potai, Miss Hogg, Messrs Haultain, Laybourne, Mitchell, Kell, Stenare, Potai, Sutton, Wrigley, Biddulph, Reay, Marshall, »»>d another. Cargo—l 63 cheep. For the new steamer 15 or 16 of the aharM to be allotted in Tauranga were taken the first day.

LATEST SOUTHERN NEWS.

(From our own correspondent.)

LYTTELTON.

Thu day. The Taranaki arrived at noon yesterday. She sailed at four o'clock.

The Governor's yacht Blanche, with the Governor and Lady Fergusson, arrived on Thursday evening from Akaroa. The yacht, on the voyage to Akaroa, lost her jibboom. &

.. ' si [Par Anglo-Australian Telegram Companyj <J

INVERCARGILL.

Thiiday. Commissioners has been appointed under the Southland Waste Land Act of 1873 to classify unsold crown land outside of tht hundreds. They start up country to-rabrrow.

THE BTEHITO STAB, SATURDAY, DECBMBBB 18 1878



I"\ STEPHENSON & CO.'S CELEBRATED COFFEES, "EXHIBITION BRAND" "EAGLE BRAND" "CROWN BRAN D," Are to be procured at all respectable Grocers and STORTSKmtnuis throughout tho Province of Auck ,PTid. D. STEPHENSON & CO. wyndham street Auckland ri A U T I O N O L S O N'S TOMATO SAUCE. Connoisseurs pronounce this Sauce to be the BEST for general use in households, and, in con sequence of its high reputation, soni" unprincipled persons have been induced to Collect Empty Bottles bearing the manufacturer's name stamped thereon, and pass the same off as " Olson's Universal Tomato . Sauce." The proprietor has in consequence caused his TRADE MARK to be Registered under the provisions of the "Trade Marks Act, 18G6," and proceedings will be taken against such persons as may forge or counterfeit such mark. The public are cautioned to ASK FOR OLSON'S SAUCE, and see that the name is Stamped on Bottle and stopper, and wrapped round with Ins well-known label. PRELIMINARY NOTICE. BEST QUALITY AT THE LOWEST PRICES. pHEISTMAS FEUITB & SPICES, V-/ SUPERIOR TEAS for the Million of surpassing purity, strength and flavor. Also, General Groceries bought at a low price in an over-stocked depressed market. Our New Price List will be shortly published in the daily papers. With pleasure wo acknowledge tho liberal patronage accorded to us, and we hereby make known that we have resolved to retail the very best quality of General Groceries at the Smallest Profits anil Lowe.'.t Prices. <13TPlease Note our Address :— TRENCH & CO., THE PEOPLE'S TEA WAREII OUS E, QUEEN STRE ET, AND BRANCH STORE IN TIIR MARKF.T. fiHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS. J. CO SG RAVE & CO. Are now holding their uf.ual CHEAP SALE OF DRAPERY & CLOTHINO [ At their Premises CANADA BUILDINGS. THE SALE IB NOW ON, And v. 11 continue diving tho CIIRIS TM A S HOLIDAYS. J. COSGRAVE & CO. Queen street. AUCKLAND CRICKET CLUB. AN Alphabetical Match will be played on the El'erslie Ground on Saturday, 13th instant ; wickets pitched at 2. J5 p m. A 'Bus will leave the Corner of Queen and Short land streets at 1.30 p m sharp. SEASON MATCHES. A.C.C. v. A.U.O C. Married v. Single AC-C. v. North Shore A.C.C. v. Perambulators Married v. Single (Return) A.C.C. v. Warehouses A.C.C. v. A.U.C.C. (Return) A.C.C. v. Country. H. E. COTTON, Hon. Sec. JTOW OPENED EX H V D*A BPE S, A MAGNIFICENT ASSORTMENT OF CHILDREN'S, GIRLS' AND LADIES' TUSCAN, LEGHORN, & STRAW HATS, MEN'S & BOYS, DITTO DITTO, VERY CHEAP. SILK SUNSHADES, MUSLIN COLLARETTES LACE TIES Etc., Etc., Etc. GENTLEMEN'S SUMMER CLOTHING, BOYS' & YOUTHS' DITTO. A CHOICE LOT OF BOYS' KNICKERBOCKER SUITS IN VARIOUS MATERIALS & STYLES ALPACCA COATS (BLACK & COLORED) WHITE DRESS SHIRTS, Etc., Etc., Etc. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN, Wholksalb and Retail Drat?kr.s, Clothiers &o JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel,) Upper Qtjeen-street, Auckland. fiTO.- Parties in the country favouring R. & B. with their orders may depend upon their receiving careful atten io and despatch. Patterns, &c, forwarded cost c | COALS (the best in uso for EJouswhoJd purposes). For Salo in! ots to suit buyers at tke Timber Yard Government Wharf, Onclranga. Orders can be left at the office. JAMES W. WALLER, Custom House-street, Auckland. BIRTH. Thomson -On Dec-1, at Otago Cottage, Wellington ■treet, Mrs J. Bell Thomson, of a son. DEATHS. PiLonnn.—On November 10, after a long and pain ful illneas, Sarah, the beloved wife of William John Pilcher; aged C2. Loved and respected by all who knew her. Witwirr.—On tho 12th inst., Grace Vllzabeth, infant (laughter of Mr K. Wright, Wakefleld-strect. aged 4 months,