SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

PORT OF AUCKLAND.

SUN-SET: This evening, 7.14 BUN-RISE: To morrow morning, 4.43 mf X^ H ATE:R : This evenin K. G-33 ; to-morrow

ARRIVALS.

v , ■fairy, schooner, from Hokianga

DEPARTURES.

xanme aare, schooner, for San Francisico tytteiton' igantine > and Rvll0 < brigantine, for Clio, ketch, for Russell Excelsior, schooner, for Kaipara tferndale, barque, for London

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

Fort! 0 a OJV, Cityof Auckland, ship, early For the South: Wellington, ss, Monday

VESSELS EXPECTED

tw os™n: ship< from London. Sailed September 29 S™' barque, from Liverpool. Sailed August 16 *vT? '.. ng> aml -Drover, brig, from Newcastle, early Jbieetrader, barque, from Port Chalmers t An\ "' ss' from Souhern ports, early t, i enes> bar( lue, from New York, via Lyttelton, BolTly 5Tf-? l 7?i th A ss ' from Sydney, about the 25th Star of the South, from Napier Beatrice, barque, frcm New York, via Adelaide

EXPORTS.

co l r Gemslbok. for New York—33s3 cases, 2SJ bags kauri gum, 1 ton iron-sand, 20 bales flax, 3 casks tallow, 15 bales wool 1 ton bark, 1 bale tow, Henderson and Macfarlane.

The ship Hydaspes was passed by the Governor Blackall on the 13th inst., 400 east miles of Sydney. The schooner Fairy brings the following cargo :—lO hides, order ;18 tons flax, 70 hides, Must and Co. ; GOO lbs. wool, 2 tons gum, Lewis Bros. ; 3 tons gum, R. Waller and Co.

The barque Gemsbok having finished her loading, hauled off the wharf this morning, preparatory to sailing for New York. Her cargo appears under the head of exports. The ship Chile commenced taking in her home cargo yesterday. A great exodus of the shipping took place last night. The whart was barer than it has been for several months past. The only vessels lying alongside were the City of Auckland, Governor Blackall, Luna, Magellan Cloud, and a few small coasters. The schooner Fannie Hare took her depar ture for San Francisco at an early hour this morning. The Kate Bram and Ryno, brigantines, sailed last night for Lyttelton with full oargoes of timber, &c.

COMMERCIAL.

SALE OF TURF CLUB BOOTHS.

Messrs Tonks & Co. sold (at Brunswick Mart to-day) the gates, booths, &c, for the Auckland Turf Club Races, and realized, after spirited competition, as under :—Grand Stand bar (Mr Corcoran, Greyhound), £75 ; No. 1 booth (Mr Clarke, Cottage of Content), £30 ; No. 2 booth (Mr Page), £20 ; No. 3 booth (Mr Barr) £27; No. 4 booth (Mr Barr), £21 ; two Good Templar booths (Mr Perkins, Occidental) £7 10s each ; gates (Mr Perkins), £412.

AUCKLAND STOCK AND MINING REPORT.

Business done this day :— National Bank, 53s S.B. Insurance, 465; buyers, 4fis Gd ; sellers, 47s Gd. National Insurance, 21s; buyers, 21s; sellers, 21a Gd. Caledonian, £12 10s ; sellers, £12 10s. City of London, 225 ; buyers, 2*lß Gd ; sellers, 22s 6d.

Thames G.M.C.—Buyers, 555; sellers, 655.

All Nations—Sellers, 10s. Eureka Hill— Sellers, 6a. Red Queen —Buyers, Is. Tokatea—Sellers, 6s. Waitemata—Buyers, 5s Gd ; sellers, Gs. Calls. £ s. d. Bate. New Zealand Shipping Co. .. 010 3 Jan. C Albion Coal Co 0 15 0 Fob. 1 -MEF.TINGS. Coromandel Excelsior G.M.C., 22nd December

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mail< will Close as Under :—

For Thames, this day, at 5.30 pn, and to-morrow, at

10.30 am For Tauranga and Napier, per Luna, to-morrow, at

noon For Mahurangi, Matakana, Mangawai, "Waipu. &c, per Lady Bowen, to-morrow, at 10 am For Taranaki and Southern provinces, per Wellington,

on Monday next, at 9 a ni. Foi Chatham Islands, per 'Wellington, on Monday

next, 9 a m. 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 10 30 a.m.

For the United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, via San Francisco, at 10.30 a.m.

For money orders, registered letters, and news papers, at 9 a.m.

For Russell, Wangaroe, and Mongonui, per Rowena, on Monday next, at 10 a.m.

(Signed) S. B. Biss. Chief Postmaster

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

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19, 1873.

For the caxise that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance. For the future in the distance, And n>« "nod that we can do

It will be remembered that the defeated candidate for the mayoralty (Mr 11. Isaacs) offered to make a wager with another coun cillor (Mr Dargaville) that the latter had used certain words in sneering allusion to his (Mr Isaac's) religion. The offer was accepted, and the matter referred to Mr Binney, who has decided as follows: — "At first I did not remember Mr Darga ville having used any such words, and I stated that he had not done so. Afterwards, upon conversing with Mr Isaacs, 1 remembered Mr Dargaville having used the words, or some others like them, but not in sneering allusion to any religion. Of that lam certain." This deci sion left the matter in some doubt, but Mr Isaacs claimed to have won, and Mr Darga yille declined to take advantage of a different view in his favor, and at once handed over a cheque for the amount (£10), for charities. As the decision upon the main point was in Mr Dargaville's favor, we think it would be graceful on the part of Mr Isaacs to pay over a similar sum. The latter gentleman's communication on the subject in this day's Cross is scarcely candid.

The time for receiving applications for shares in the Standard Fire and Marine In surance Company closes on the 24th instant. We learn that sufficient shares have already been applied for to float the company, which is now prepared to take risks. The di rectors only propose to issue 50,000 shares in the outset, 30,000 of which will posi tively be allotted to the provinces north of Otago. A very great recommendation connected with this Company is the fact that the directors have pledged themselves to participate equally with other applicants in the allotment of shares. The directory is an influential one, and we do not see why the Company should not, with careful management, do a profitable business.

An information was laid by the Harbour master at the Police Court this morning against the captain of the Takapuna for a breacli of the Harbour Regulations, in omitt ing to put out a landing stage, when calling at the Victoria Pier, North Shore.

The gentleman who yesterday called at our office and complained of the conduct of a man collecting subscriptions on behalf of John Carter to-day brought the subscription list. It appears that Carter had received intima tion of a friend's intention to make a house to house canvas, but had forgotten the fact when the question was put to him by our informant yesterday. The money, amount ing to £2 9s Id, has been paid, and Mr Carter desires to gratefully acknowledge the receipt of that sum. Those who have subscribed, therefore, need be under no misapprehension that their benevolence has miscarried. The collector is well known in town, and although he may have pulled four or five plums, in passing through, a garden is not likely to appear on a charge of false pretences.

We have received the following for inser tion : Sir, —In last night's Star Mr P. A. Philips states that the charges which he laid against the Ferry Company in his place at the Harbour Board were the result of his own personal observation. If this is true, it was his duty to have at once laid his complaint before the directors of the com pany, who have not only publicly announced, but have very pointedly and significantly communicated to their captains and officers their determination to promptly investigate and severely visit the smallest irregularity in respect of wharves, time-table, or regu lations. This, however, would not have served the purpose intended by Mr P. A. Philips on the occasion.—Yours, &c, One who Knows.

We are very much surprised at the want of courtesy and journalistic etiquette which has been displayed by the Thames Advertiser towards Mr Skinner, one of the .Auckland representatives at the late Melbourne inter colonial firing. Since the return of the Thames men to the goldfields one of their number has behaved in a most une;entlemanly way, extremely discreditable to any one con nected with a volunteer corps, by publishing incorrect statements detrimental to Mr Skinner as a marksman. The Advertise)-, when these statements were called in question, refused to afford Mr Skinner any opportunity for reply, and pro ceeded to add insiilt to the injury, which it had already been the me dium of inflicting. The facts of the case are simply these : —The Thames men having fired in all the matches, can show higher aggregate scores than their compeers from Auckland, some of whom, when they found they had no chance of gaining theprize, retired from matches they had entered for. Volunteer Skinner, by the bad management of the Captain, was also debarred from firing in theinter-colonial match, and in other nmtches he withdrew after one or two ranges had been fired. There was no object to be gained by firing for the sake of making a high aggregate score, and as the entries for the matches were very large, he, with others, withdrew when ho .saw it was useless to go on. Tin's has been taken advantage of by one of his companions in arms (who keeps in the back ground under cover of the Advertiser, and refuses to come forward in an open and manly way) to cast reflections on Volunteer Skinner. That journal, with astonishing pigheadedness, rushes into the fray, and ex poses its complete ignorance of the subject which it becomes so oracular upon. Mr Skinner's proficiency as a marksman has been too well known for years past to re quire any vindication at this time of day. In order to show the position he occupied at the Melbourne firing, therefore, it is only necessary to publish the list of prize money taken by the Auckland and Thames representatives, from which it will be seen that Mr Skinner holds third place. We append the correct statement:—Stone, £14 ; Partington, £S ; Skinner, £0 5s Gd ; Al dcrton, £5 ; lloskin, C 4 5s ; Fenton, £'.) Ss • Small, £1 ; Hicks, 10s Gd. [The Advertiser, which published part of this list, showed its animus towards Mr Skinner by altering his winnings from the amount above stated, which is correct, to £l\]

Wo perceive that the hairless horse lias arrived from the Thames after a successful tour, and will be exhibited to-morrow and .Monday and Tuesday. This wonder of nature will no doubt have many [visitors before his departure for America. The premises are very suitable and central — Victoria-street, opposite Union Hank.

At a meeting of the Mutual Mining In vestment Company (limited) held last night at the Young Men's rooms a resolution was passed to the effect that the company had been fairly wound up.

The distribution of prizes at the Auckland College and Gramraar-school took place to day in the presence of a large number of the parents and friends of pupils. The proceed ings were of a verj interesting character, but pressure on our space precludes us from giving a report to-day.

We hear that the committee of the Early Closing Association contemplate asking the ministers of the various churches of Auck land to preach a scries of sermons in favour of the movement, and the idea is commend able. It will he remembered that while the great early closing struggle was going on in London a similar request was made to the kadiug preachers, who at once acquiesced, and the issue was satisfactory, and the early closing movement, especially among the drapery, was established.

This evening the members of the Auckland Wesleyan Mutual Improvement Association will hold tlioir third musical and literal v entertainment in the Pitt-street school-room. The Rev. Alexander P>oiil is expected to take the chair and deliver the introductory address. The pieces selected for reading and recitation, most of them old, will bo new and interesting to those who arc unacquainted with them ; others from their freshness will be welcomed. The " Lines on a Skeleton," (author unknown), is a remarkable produc tion, and was found first ma chamber in Lin coln's Inn, and forwarded by the finder to the Morning Chronicle, where it was firstgiven to the world. Hood's "Parental Odeto his Son." though universally known, as always interest ing when well rendered by a skilled elocutionist, as it will be to-night. Sergeant Buzfuz again, from <he inimitable pen of Dickens, is always welcome. The "Dying Soldier," if properly delivered, is touching and beauti ful. The Pitt-street entertainment, we believe, will be a great success to-night as the selections have all been approved by the committee, and none but the most accom plished members permitted to take part in the proceedings.

We understand that a co-operative store is about to be established at the North Shore. From the experience afforded of the excellent working of this principle at Mahurangi, Wangarei, and elsewhere, there can be little doubt that when once known it will commend itself strongly to those of our North Shore friends to whom the purchase of household stores at little over wholesale prices will be a matter of consideration. The Mahurangi Co-operative store, in a very small population, turned over a hundred pounds in the first week of its starting, and has since paid interest at the rate of ten per cent, to investors. As these investors are the custo mers themselves, of course this ten per cent, shows but a small portion of the advantages of havingjonly the best article procurable, and at—to them.-but a nominal advance on cost prices. We understand that a suitable site has been fixed upon, and will probably be secured, and from the hands that have taken up this matter we may confidently anticipate that a project so conducive to the general good of the district will be made a success.

The Star of Newton Lodge of Good Templar's meeting was held last evening in the Congregational school-room, and several candidates for initiation appeared on the scene.

A meeting in connection with Primitive Methodist Missions was held last evening in the Sheridan-street Chapel. The Rev. C. Waters in the chair. The attendance was not large, probably on account of the wea ther. Mr Smith, the secretary, read a favourable report, which was adopted, after which the Revs. Messrs Tinsley and Sharp (the new arrivals) delivered interesting ad dresses. Several hymns and selections were given by the Sheridan-street choir.

There was a large gathering of the mem bers of the Auckland Rifle Brigade at drill last evening, under Captain Morrow, and the men went through their evolutions very creditably.

Our musical friends will learn with regret that Madame Winter, of Melbourne house, contemplates quitting Auckland for the South, and probably will take her departure in the course of a few weeks.

The regular monthly meeting of the mem bers of the Royal Albert Orange Lodge will be held in the Wellesley-street Lodge-room.

The members of the Cavalry Volunteer Corps presented their captain with, a medal and address expressive of their appreciation of his exertions on behalf of the corps. The medal bears the following inscription :— "Presented to Captain Alfred E. Isaacs, by the men of the Auckland Troop of Cavalry Volunteers, as a mark of esteem for him as a soldier and a gent'eman." C.iptain Isaacs returned thanks. The Captain's Cup, Avon by Sergt. Scotter, was then presented.

The Lynch family of bell-ringers snd Mr Verten met with a great reception again last evening, and shortly after the commencement of the concert the ball was completely filled. The entertainment is in every respect worthy of its fame and wide-spread popularity, and the appearance at this time of this" gifted family is seemly as introductory to the merry season of Christmas, when the hells, accord ing to Tennyson, should ring out old feuds, and ring in the sweet human charities of life. To-night is announced as a grand fashionable night, and to-motrow there will be a mid-day performance for schools and families. There will be a change of pro gramme this evening, with other melodies on the "bells, bells, bells."

The announced time table and fares on the Onehunga railway do not give satisfaction. We have received the following letter from an influential resident of Onehunga on the subject :—" Sir,—] see that the fares to be charged on the Auckland and Onehunga railway are at a rate which will surely defeat the wishes of those who hope to see the line pay. Put the fares at the lowest possible rate, and so develop a traffic which will not fail in a few months to increase to payable dimensions. Make it cheaper to go by rail than to travel any other way, and success will be certain. The published tariff, if per severed in, will kill the trade before it is born. Hoping it is not too late to remedy so fatal a mistake, 1 would suggest the following tariff : —Auckland to Onehunga, lirst-class, Is ; second, (id ; return, first class, Is (id ; second, 9<l, Newmarket, ilitto, ditto. Other stations to Auckland or One hunga half fares, with a special weekly ticket for .school boys at a very low rate. — I am, etc., LocOMOTiVK."

His Honor the Superintendent has received information by telegraph of the departure of the ship ( v >ueen of Au,e from London in November last with HlO immigrants for this province.

The (Government steamer Luna wi'l in all proljility leave for Tauranga to-morrow, at one o'clock, but at three o'clock to-day Capt. Fairchild had received no positive sailing orders from the Government.

We have several school reports in hand, but our space at present is too crowded with local matter of general interest to permit of their insertion. The Auckland College had a very successful examination, and eighty volumes were distributed last night as prizes. The success that has attended this school, notwithstanding the opposition of the Government free schools, shews tin; popularity of the principal, the JXaV. \V. Taylor, and his success in the work of tuition.—The Mount Hobson School, Uemuera, has undergone a searching examination, and the reports of the ex aminers, which we have been shown, are most complimentary to the master, Mr Cholmondeley Smith. The pupils have attained a remarkable proficiency considerin" the short time the school has been' in exist ence.— Mrs Rushbrook'a school, Hobson street, has been examined, and prizes I awarded. —Miss Hill's pupils, Hobson-street, celebrated their breaking up with a party last night after a very successful term. The customaiy ball at the end of the 3'ear was also held at Mrs Addy's seminary, Spring Villa, Dedwood. The young ladies have shewn by their proficiency and skill at fancy work the care that has been bestowed on their tuition during the past term. —On Wednesday the annual ex amination of St. Peter's school took place in the presence of his Lordseip Ivight Picv. Dr. Croke, Fathers Walter McDonald, J. Golden, and several of the parents of the children. Mr B. Hninill is the teacher. The usual attendance in this school is about seventy children. They were examined in the usual branches of education, religious and secular, and acquitted themselves in a very satisfactory manner. A recitation by Master W. Kirhy was well rendered. At the close of the proceedings the Bishop expressed himself much ple.ised at the great progress thethildren had made.—St. Patrick's Select School was afterwards examined. The attendance about iifty. Teacher, Mr J. Plunkett. He read a detailed report of the school for the past year. The pupils were examined in the usual branches of a high education, and answered satisfactorily. At intervals the boys sang several hymns with a pleasing effect. His Lordship advised regularity, and congratulated the teacher upon the marked improvement in the pupils since last examination. —Miss Frassi's school, Seaiield View, and Mr Griffin's school, Newton, were likewise examined. In this school the pupils (some of whom are young) satisfied the examiners by their readiness in answer ing. At the breaking up of the Ponsonby Seminary Mrs Hammond's pupils attended in presence of a large number of ladies and gentlemen for the distribution of prizes. Two valuable Bibles from Messrs Wood and Grainger were given for the best essay in the shape of a letter to parents sotting forth the duties of a daughter and the benefits of a good home. The exhibition of needlework, drawing, and maps attracted much attention. —The break up of Mrs Hardens, Shortland House school, was celebrated last evening in the presence of about SO children, and their friends. The room was decorated with flowers and evergreens, and a very pleasing evening was passed. The various prizes were handed to the children by Eev. C. M. Nelson, who complimented Mrs Harden on the great improvement shewn by the different classes of children under her charge. A large number of prizes were awarded (which we have not space for naming), and an easy chair and album were presented to Mrs Harden and Miss Haselden in token of regard from the teachers and children. The St. Stephen's School, Tararua, which consists of twenty-eight native and half caste boys, whose ages range from seven to seventeen years, was examined yesterday by the Right Rev. Bishop Cowie, in the pre sence of the manager, the teacher of the school, and several ladies. The examination was conducted altogether in the English language, and the Bishop expressed himself satisfied with the progress the pupils had made during the past year in the different branches of learning in which they had been taught, and was especially gratified at the advance they had made in speaking, reading and writinc: English. There also attend the school as day scholars eight English boys, who have been admitted at the request of their parents. These boys were also ex amined by the Bishop, avlio shewed his approval of the progress they had made by awarding prizes to two of them. A prize was likewise given to the best among the Maori boys in writing English from dicta tion. :

The District and Resident Magistrates' Courts will be closed during the holidays from December 24, 1873, till 2nd January 1874, inclusive of both days, '

The new Sunday School Union panorama of the Arctic 1-legions was exhibited last evening in the Kewton Kirk, and gave much satisfaction to the audience. The descriptive lecture was given by Mr Barton in his usual clear and pleasant manner. The young people evidently enjoyed the scenes as they successively passed in view.

The Eoyal Exhibition in the City Hall continues to attract its hundreds of visitors. Yesterday if, was again the scene of general interest, and last evening the promenade concert, with its music, songs, and dramatic performances were admired and encored.

The half-yearly meeting of the share holders in the Cure Gold Mining Company was held at noon to-day at Mr Home's office, Shoi-tland-street. Mr George Wil liamson occupied the chair. There was a small attendance of shareholders. The sole business of the meeting was to receive the report and bahnce-sheet for the last half year. The balance-sheet showed receipts, £1028 19s 7d ; and expenses, £1882 2s 2d, leaving a balance in bank of £40 17s sd. The report and balance-sheet were adopted. The Chairman informed the meeting that since the report was published the company had purchased the Mary Ann claim for £55. Ho expected the outlay would prove highly remunerative. The meeting then termi nated.

A sum of £25, liberally subscribed by the Insurance Companies to be distributed among those who assisted in extinguishing tlio fire at Lloyd's rope works, was distributed last night by Mr Boardman. Most of the recipients gave their awards to the All Saints' church-room and Ponsonby school room. We have received a letter from "HW.R." complaining that although he assisted at the fire he was kept out of the division.

Our notice of the ninth instalment o^ Rational JPmicii, will appear to-morrow.

Fibst Pjsizk Ovens. First Prize Kajcoks — H. 11. Smith wishes to infoim the ladies of Auckland Unit having sold a large number of liis Improved Patent Poitable Ovens, which have given so much satisfaction, he has re (hired them neaily 20 per cent. The Portable Ovens are Z'.x, original price 42s ; also, First-prize Kangfs, either portable or for getting-in : also. First-prize Colonial Ovens reduced. 11. US has also on hand several large and small second-hand Leamington Ranges, Ooibrookrlale Stoves, &c. ; also, Iron Bedlcads, Ac, for sale (cheap), at the Auckland Jron Works. Durham street East.

RACING NOTES.

(From our special Correspondent.)

THE acceptances for the Turf Club Cup are out, and although few in number make up for their scantiness by their quality. Five horses are left in : Hatred Gyrs., Bst. lOlbs ; Yatterina aged, 7st. 121bs; Parawhenua 4 yrs., 7st. Olbs. ; Papapa 3yis., 7st. Slbs ; and Black Eagle aged. 7st. :")lbs. These have all arrived, and are at the prewejit time in f good health, and doing good work. They are all probable starters, and as they repre sent different interests a good race may be expected. lam sorry to see that those two grand mares, Lurlire and Calumny, are among the non-acceptors, but it lias been thought policy by Mr Redwood to reserve the former for I hmedin, and with regard to the other, from Ray preferring to be represented by Hatred, we must conclude that the bay is the better animal over this distance at the weights. Papapa has been elected favourite. At Perkins' Calcutta Sweepstakes of £125 on Wednesday the following prices were rea lised for the different horses, and may bo accepted as indicating their relative market prices :—Papapa, £43; Hatred, £24; Yat terina, £15 ; Parawhenua, £11 ; Black Eagle, £9. The winner takes G5 per cent. While referring to the betting market (such as it is in Auckland) I must congratulate the inetallicians on being able to do business on such paying terms as they seem to do in New Zealand. In the Canterbury meet ing three horses were quoted at level money for the Christchurch Plate. We trust that the bookmakers will be a little more liberal here. At the same time, if the public take ridiculously short prices we cannotexpect the listmen to give longerones. The nine entries for the New Zealand Cup include all the best horses that have arrived.

Several horses have arrived at Epsom to fulfil their Ellerslie engagements. One of the best looking of the lot is Sultan, an aged black horse belonging to Mr Kirkwood. He can jump and Hat race as well, and will most likely appear in both characters at Christmas. This horse won the Croxton Park Steeplechase at Melbourne this year, and brings other good credentials. He did a fast gallop of three-quarters of a mile on Wednesday morning; yesterday his work was confined to walking exercise. Mr Munn's Skysail was out at day-break yesterday, and went a three-quarter pace galop of about two and a half miles in good style. A grey hack from Napier was out at the same time, and went a similar distance. He does not seem up to much, and from his general appearance and mode of locomotion is not likely to trouble the judge in the hack

' race. ! Bundarra, Mr Wynyard's aged gelding, shows regularly at exercise. The old horse ' looks well, but he is troubled with the slows, and even with a light weight will have all his work to keep pace with the class of animals he will meet in the races he goes for. , Mr Kirkwood has a bay colt up from the Waikato which has created a very favorable J impression. He has the very cut of a racer, ' and will be heard of to advantage before the ' meetings are over. Yesterday he had a rattling spin, making many friends by his free style of galloping. ■ Black Eagle came up from Taranaki on ; Wednesday in the Wellington, and is located at Mr Gwynne's commodious stables. He ; seems to have quite recovered from the ■ effects of his partial breakdown after winning 1 the handicap last year, although the near fore lea;, which gave way, is still viewed with suspicion by his trainer. He did a rompin^ 1 six mile sweat in his clothes this morning pulling hard all the way. He is a certain ■ starter for the Turf Cup, and on his form last year ought to possess an excellent chance ot winning. It is singular that this horse, one of the crack performers of last year should have the lowest weight to carry in a great race this year. This speaks' volumes tor the superior class of animals engaged more especially as the horse is not fancied with his lenient impost. I -do not much rely upon the tone of the market in this respect, and believe thaf a small outlay on him at the present price would be remunera tive. Mr Wynyard's horse Batsman, entered for the Jockey Club Hurdle llace, is undergoing a, severe preparation. He has had several long sweats. A morning or two ago he showed symptoms of an inclination to refuse his jumps, but tliia was exceptional. Mr I Orwynne's Flying Jib is another hurdle racer but Ido not much admre him. Although a clean jumper, he has very little pace. Hatred and Calumny were out early yes terday morning at Ellerslie, and went together a fnst gallop of three miles. Hatred was stripped, while Calumny had her clothes on. The last half mile was done at their best pace. Hatred finished about a length in advance of her stable companion. H. Prince has Discord located here. She arrived by the Phoebe the day before yester day. She did not shew on the course on ihursday. Chanticleer,

F.H. LEWISSON IN THE SOUTH.

OAMARU

lls one of the most flourishing little places in the colonies. The country surrounding is one field of grain, and the crops this year will produce more than they have hitherto done. Thousands of acres of land have been ploughed ready for seed next year. Labour is scarce, not an idle person to be found. All working classes in demand. Men here breaking road metal are making from fifteen to twenty shillings per day. There is no sickness of any kind. The town faces the sea. The buildings are principally stone, which is found here in enormous quan tities. It is of a very soft nature, and easily worked, but after exposure to the air be comes hard. It is exported to Dunedin to a large amount. Timber for building purposes is very scarce, and such a thing as bricks I have not as yet come across. The water here is very brackish, and a supply is greatly needed, which could be fetched seven miles at a trifling outlay. There is a natural reservoir, which would save the expense of building one. Gas is un known in these parts, and should a Gas Company be started it would be a good investment for capital. Pubseveryotherhouse and an old-fashioned drinking crowd. Rather too many Scotch, who stick to the bawbees and have no inclination after jewellery. I have made the acquaintance of the resident magistrate, who fined me one shilling and costs for holding an art union contrary to the municipal laws. Got off cheap. Will bid adieu to the place on Monday by coach to the great and flourishing city of Dunedin, having supplied watches and jewellery enough to keep them for the next twelve months. The trip to this place put the fear of the next world in me. I had to cross the River Waitaki in a boat, running at the rate of twelve knots an hour. I bid farewell to my boxes of jewellery, not expecting to see them again, but after three-quarters of an hour we reached the Otago side in safety, and I promise never to tempt the river again. Thursday was a holiday. Every shop closed. It was a .Scotch fast day. There were more people drinking at the hotels than I hava seen at any other time. I suppose fasting made them thirsty. Tho Star and Garter is a first-class hotel, and I should advise any one travelling this way to call and see Mr Proctor, who is the prince of publicans, and keeps good liquors. The breakwater is progressing slowly, and when finished will be a great boon to the shippers of grain. The hospital is of stone, on an elevated position, founded by B. Schermiski ; the foundation stone laid by| Mrs Schermiski. There are two lines of railroad in progress, one from Waitaki to Moeraki, the other from Oamaruto Merenhui. I think that this is the test town for a small one that I have been in since I left the good City of Auckland, and offers a good opening for a young beginner with a small capital. OTAGO. Left Oamaru at seven o'clock on Mon day morning, and had the r grandest treat that 1 have ever had. Eighty miles of good road through the best of Otago pro vince. The crops all looking, and acknow ledged by farmers to be, better than they have ever been. The grass could not look finer. Cattle and sheep too lazy and fat to eat. The bridges on the road are all substantially made of Oamaru stone. The railroad works are going on rapidly in every direction. The Horse Range is well worth seeing, but the walk up hill of two miles and a half is something 1 did not bargain for, having paid to ride. The last seven miles leading to Dunedin is a fine piece of engineering, roads cut round the hills three miles and a-half up and the same down, and not a yard of it dangerous, being securely fenced on one side by the hill, and the other by post and rail. Everyone here seems to be doing well, and this is the grand emporium of New Zealand, but give me Auckland. This is a summer month, but cold enough for an over coat. Rheumatics are the order of the day, and a week of it will satisfy the most fastidious that Dunedin climate is not congenial to a man used to see the sun shine as it does in the good City of Auckland. Board at hotels very moderate ; there is a good market here for poultry. Turkeys fetching Is lid per pound ; ducks, Ss per pair ; fowls, (is Gd per pair ; now thei-e is a good spec, for some one. I shall most likely return to Auckland for the New Year, having just purchased £1000 worth of new goods from the largest wholesale jewellers in Dunedin, consisting of bracelets, lockets, watches, chains, &c, &c. I shall open them up in Queen-street for two weeks, prior to my departure to the West Coast.

POLICE COURT.—Yesterday.

(Before Thos. Beckham, Esq., R.M.)

CHARGE AGAINST THE DOCTOR OF

THE CHILE,

Charles Reed, a passenger on board the Chile, deposed that he remembered the 2nd of October, •which was a very hot day, and the pitch was boiling where Mrs Vesey sat. He was by the hatchway at about a quarter to nine and, saw the doctor and chief mate trying to put the handcuffs on Mrs Yesey. She strongly resisted and fainted, and while in that condition Mr Hardie and the second mate completed the job. Mrs Waugh. was in the way laughing, when Mrs Vesey rushed at her, but could not strike her as she was held at the time by three men, who then hung her up to the capstan. She had no resting place for her feet. The woman was hysterical, and the position she was in was not decent. The doctor would not allow any person to adjust her clothing, but laughed over it. The women were frequently quarrelling, but Mrs Vesey's tongue, he considered, was the fastest. He must say the doctor was not fair to Mrs Vesey • he would listen to Mrs Waugh's tale, but not to Mrs Vesey. After she had hung all day m the sun she was put into the dunegon below.

To Mr Hesketh : She was hung up like a sheep, or a bit of beef, and was insensible about six hours during the time. His opinion was the woman was barbarously and indecently ill-treated.

Alfred Reed, another passenger, deposed that he heard the woman scream out, "Oh doctor, what have I done to be served in this manner," when he saw her strug^line; as stated by last witness.

Julia Carr, a married woman, corroborated the statement of the last witness. Elizabeth Dyer deposed that on the 2nd of October she was ill in her compartment; that slie heard a row between Mrs Vesey and Mrs Waugh about a mess-towel, when Mrs Vesey said she would split Mrs Waugh's head open with the bucket. She also said she would settle Mrs Waugh. Elizabeth Dwyer, a married woman, gave evidence in corroboration of the two preceding witnesses, and stated that she heard Mrs Vesey use foul language, for which she was reprimanded by the captain and doctor. The further hearing of the case will be resumed on Saturday.

THIS DAY.

DRUNKENNESS,

Mary (a Maori), John O'Shea, and Mary Gunn, were charged with this offence. The first was fined 5s and costs. The second Who said he had been twelve years, in the

colony, and had never been bro^hTTTT' i fore was discharged with a caution^' third was a venerable old lady, who sn^ herself with a stick, pteadecfn^SjfS4 was very weak, and had stumbled J$ c going down some steps. "lle His Worship asked if anything was 1™ of the prisoner ? D s kno *n Mr Broham said she had been an ;„ of the Old Women's Refuge. ni°ate The prisoner here began to rattle nff whole string of accomplishments which a possessed She could wash a a *ellt± body in Auckland, which them as U y her coula testify to the same; and £T mangling there wasn't one as could tLu her at it and starching too, and someS she went a charing. "^iimes His Worship intimated to the pri 80ner that she was accused of being drunk The imputation was indignantly denied the old soul declaring she did not know the taste of liquor. tae His Worship said he thought that the only thing to be done was to get the poor creature back again to the Refuge. Mr Broham doubted if they would tato her after her behaviour. He would how ever, try to get her taken back. The prisoner was then discharged and caused roars of laughter by the way shl retired from the Court, continually bobbin* up and down and thanking his Worship and declaring till the door closed upon her'that she was a very good worker—that she was - which every one as knew her could Bay the' same.

LARCENY

Thomas Brown and Thomas Hynes were charged with the larceny of a coat, value 20s, the property of Richard Hughes, from the brigantine Ryno, on the 17th December

Mr Inspector Broham stated that there was no evidence against Brown, and he should ask for his discharge. There would be other charges against Hynes, and he would ?sk that the case be adjourned till Monday. His Worship complied with the Inspector's request, and discharged Brown. The charge against Hynes will be heard on Monday. This was all the business.

PROVINCIAL COUNCIL.

Yestebday—continued.

The following motions were withdrawn by their proposers :—Removal of toll-bars at Newmarket and elsewhere (Mr Cheeseman), removal of pilot station at Kaipara (Mr Ormiston), subsidising steamers between Shortland and Ohinemuri (Mr Bagnall). All the other motions given notice of were agreed to.

Mr Swanson asked the Government the following questions without notice: —Is it the intention of the Provin cial Government that the proposed pro vision of £5000 towards the cost of education shall stand in the place of an Education rate until the passing of a new Act by the Council ? Will the Superinten dent be prepared to levy a rate at the begin ning of next year under the Education Act now in force if asked to do so by the Board? 3. Do the Government propose to introduce any alteration in the Education Act beyond the alteration in the rating clause; and in what way is it proposed to alter the Act? 4. Is it the intention of the Government to enforce payment of the present rate against all defaulters 1

Mr Sheehan, in reply, said he wished at once to correct the impression which seemed to have got abroad that the collection of the arrears of the rate would not be enforced. He had issued a circular to be sent to de faulting ratepayers informing them that if they did not pay the rate proceedings would be taken against them. No matter what his own opinion of the rate might be he thought injustice to the Council and to the 7500 people who had paid all others who were able should be com pelled too. (Hear, hftar.) In answer to the first question he begged to state that the intention of the Government in making the advauce was to enable the Board to carry on operations under the present Act until the Council should assemble and review the question. If the Council did not; alter the Act the rate would be collected and the amount refunded to the Government. To the second question his reply was, that the Superintendent did not intend to levy a rate. With regard to the third question he must decline to state at present what were the alterations the Government proposed to introduce, either in the rating clauses or other parts of the Act. The last question he had already answered. The Provincial Secretary then proceeded to comment upon the working and productive powers of the late Act, and stated there was no question which the Government were prepared to give a more honest consideration to than that of educa tion. EDUCATION BOARD. Four members, were then elected to serve on the Board of Education, viz , Dr Camp bell, Mr Philips, Mr Dargaviile, and Mr Prime. Mr Sheehan stated that his Honor the Chief Justice had nominated Mr TT. H. Lusk aa a member of the Board of Education. ADJOURNMENT. On t\e motion of the adjournment of the session till March being introduced by Mr Sheehan, an amendment by Mr Buckland to substitute Ist May for 24th March, was carried without a division. The Mount Eden Road Bill and the Mount Albert Eoad Bill were read a second time, and passed through all their stages.

EDUCATION EMPOWERING BILL.

A Bill fora further advance of £2,500 to the Education Board was introduced. A long discussion followed, which] ended in the motion being agreed to. A Bin to increase the amount of the pro posed appropriation for general purposes by £7000 Avas passed in committee, and re ported to the House.

ROADS IN THE NORTH. A committee was appointed to consider the scheme of expending £3000 during the recess upon the roads and works north ot Auckland. The Council adjourned at 10.45 p.m.

THIS DAY.

The Council met at three o'clock. The minutes of the proceedings yesterday having been read and approved of, a notice of motion was given in by Mr Hay, for & grant of £100 for the road from Maketu to Ararimu. Mr Swanson asked the Speaker if he had exactly acted up to the Constitution Act .in submitting the tie between Messrs Hurst and Prime in the elecfcon for the fourjnem bers of the Education Board to decision hyi secon vote of the Council instead o£u. \ giving a casting vote himself. T^T'l The Speaker replied that the^^f^, voting in the case referred to was *( °« He should act in the same way 'Jot WULp. % Mr Hurst begged permission to y^o?, he had only consented under $rekf!&^lP 6 put in nomination, and the result of tne election was in accordance with his own wish. ROADS AND WORKS IN THE NORTH. Mr Sheehan presented the report of tne committee appointed to consider the expen diture of £3000 on the roads and works nortn

TEEEVENING STAB, FRIDAY, DECBMBBK, 19 1878



Q N SALE Now Landing, Ex Fanny Hake, ?rom Oamabtx, 200 tons J. K. Anderson's Flour 15 tons Meek's Flour ■■■*•'■ 25 tons Pollard. GEO. W. BINNEY. Q N SALE By the Undersigned,' Malt, Best Pale Suffolk and Colonial Hops, Bast Kent and Tasmanian Scrim, 72 and 45 inch Corn Sacks, 3-bushel ~ ■ * . Candles, Price's Belmont Sardines, halves and quarters Starch, Colman's ; Blue, Colman's Pickles, Whybrow's and Morton's Jar Salt, Morton's Vinegar, Morton's Orange Peel, Figs ! Raisins, Almonds Confectionery, Keiller's Castor and Salad Oil (Morton's) Jams, lib tins Tart Fruits • Flour, Adelaide, Otago, and Dunedin Colza Oil, Bulk Castor Oil Maize, Pollard, &c, &c , &c. GEO. W. BINNEY. WAIKATO COALS (the best in use for Household purposes). For Sale in " ots to suit buyers at the Timber Yard Government Wharf, Onehunga. Orders can be left at the office. JAMES W. WALLER, Custom House-street, Auckland. p A~~ U T 10 J-N. OLSON'S TOMATO SAUCE. Connoisseurs pronounce this Sauce to be the BEST for general use in households, and, "iir; con sequence of its high reputation, som« 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, 1866," 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 his well-known



Jf O ¥ OPENED E X H.Y DAS PE S, A MAGNIFICENT ASSORTMENT OF CHILDREN'S, GIRLS' AKD 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 Ac«tSSo Ct? LOT 0F BOYS> KNICKERBOCKER SUITS IN VARIOUS MATERIALS & STYLES ALPACCA COATS (BLACK & COLORED) ' WHITE DRESS SHIRTS, Etc., Etc., Etc. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN, Wholesale and Retail Drapers, Clothiers &o JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel,) • Uppee Queen-street, Auckland. tsr n.b.— Parties in the country favouring R. & B. with their orders may depend upon their receiving careful atten tion and despatch. Patterns, &c, forwarded post free. [Established 1864.] r\ STEPHENSON & CO.' S CjjELEBRAT'ED COFFSEES, "EXHIBITION BRAND"" " EAGLE BRAND " "CROWN BRAN D," Are to be procured at all respectable Grocers and Storekeepers throughout the Province of Auck and. D. STEPHENSON & CO. wyndham street Auckland pHRISTMAS H O L I D;A V S. J. COSGRAVE & CO. Are now holding their usual CHEAP SALE OF DRAPERY & CLOTHING At their Premises CANADA BUILDINGS. THE SALE IS NOW ON, And will continue during the CIIR IS T MAS HOLIDAY S. J. COSGRAVE & CO. Queen street.