SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

PORT OF AUCKLAND.

SUN-SET: This evening, 7.13 SUN-RISE: To morrow mornlnp, 4.43 HIGH WATER : This evening, fi.4? ; to-morrow morning, 0.10

ARRIVALS.

Ruby, schooner, from Wangaroa Sunbeam, schooner, from Waipu

IMPORTS.

Per s.s. Governor Blackall from Sydney : 3 J-casks wine, Armstrong and Co; 1 parcel, Ireland Eros. ; ] case, Stewart and Ander son ; 1 case, 1 pg., W. M. Foster, 1 case, M. Montague ; 4 cases drapery, order ; 2 cases, Bank of N.S.W. ; 1 bag seed, Kemp thorne and Prosser ; 1 case, J. Henreich ; 1 case seeds, H. Lip?combe ; 50 cases fruit, G. W. Binney ; 1 parcel, 1 case, Me Arthur, Shera and Co. ; 41 I -cases fruit, L. W. Eaton ; 2 cases, Montague ; 1 parcel, A. G. Bartlett; 179 cases fruit, R. Arthur; 123 cases fruit, W. Marshall.—H. M. Jervis Agent.

The A.S.N. Go's. s.s. Governor Blackall, Charles Edward Saundcrs, Commander, arrived in harbour at 11 o'clock this morning from Sydney. We are indebted to Mr Drew, the chief officer, for prompt delivery of our files, &c, and for the following report of passage which occupied six days. She left Sydney at 10.15 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 12th. Passed Three Kings on Wednesday 17th, at 10 a.m., and arrived as above in Auckland. Experienced light easterly winds and very fine weaiher to the Kings, from thence light variable winds and fine weather. Saloon Passengers : Colonel Erasyer, C.8., Mr Kobn, Mr Foot. Steerage : Mr and Mrs Denison and child, Mr Jones, Mr Crawford, Mr Bethel.

The A.S.N. Co.'s new steamship Went worth, Captain Brown, arrived in Sydney on the Bth inst., after a lapid passage from this port of four days seven hours,! having left on the 4th. She is to leave Sydney for this port on the 22nd instant.

The s.s. Phccbe will sail for Sydney at six this evening- The Ruby, from Wangaroa, brings a cargo of tirpber.

The brig Prairie, from Hokianga, arrived at Hobart Town on the 2nd inst.

The s.s. Star of the South is to leave for Levuka on Tuesday next.

The Clio has cleared out in ballast for Russell.

The brigantine Magellan Cloud having put out her timber in the stream, came along side the wharf yesterday, and has been en gaged discharging her cargo of coals. She is to sail for Mahurangi in a few days to load timber for Lyttelton.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Maim will Close as Under :—

For Thames, this day, at 5.30 pm, and to-morrow, at 10.30 am and (-.3opm, For Corornandel, on Friday next, at 1.30 p.m. For Wangarei, per Bertha, to-morrow, at 11 a m For Tauranga. per Vincent, to-morrow, at 4 p.m. For Taranaki and Southern provinces, per "Wellington, on Monday next, at 9 a m. Foi Chatham Island*, per "Wellington, on Monday next, 9 am. Tor 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 AVest Indies, at 0 30 p.m. For the United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, via Pan Francisco, at 0.30 p.m.

For money orders, registered letters, and news papers, at 11 a.m.

(Signed) 8. B. Bibs. Chief Postmaster

COMMERCIAL.

HUNTER AND NOLAN'S REPORT.

Horses.—Sales have been numerous not withstanding there has been a considerable flatness at auction on Friday. There were an unusual number of entrances. Bidding was scarcely so spirited as for the last two or three weeks, but for those of a good stamp the demand was more spirited, but prices were barely sustained. Hacks sold at from £12 to £21 ; light harness horses from £15 10s to £27 15s each.

Cattle.—There was but a moderate sup ply and slack demand. Dairy cows con tinue dull, and the demand for stores was jßot so good at Newmarket as for the last 'few weeks, and prices receded. Fat beasts were in moderate supply, and prices ruled slightly in favour of the purchaser. We sold dairy cows from £6 to £7 10s j year lings, from £2 to £3 Is; two-year-olds, from £4 to £4 10s; beef, from 22s to 26s per lOOlbs.

Sheep were penned in adequate numbers and met with fair demand at prices a shade lower than last week. Best wethers from 19s to 21s 6d ; merinos from 12s to 15s each. Lambs were in fair number, and sold readily at from 12s to 17s ; Becond quality from 9s to 10s 6d each.

Pigs were yarded in large numbers and met with good competition at from 2d to 3d per lb.

PROVISION MARKET.

COLONIAL PRODUCE.

Buying Prices, Corrected by Auckland Dealers. : s. d. s. d. s d. a. d Butter, per lb. 0 B—o 10 Ducks, pair.. 3 o—s 0 Cheese (rew) 0 4£—o 6 Geese, each 4 o—s 6 Eggs, per doz. 1 3—o 0 Turkeys .. SO—4 0 Lard, per lb. 0 7—o 0 | Canterbury Bacon & Hams Fowls, pair.. 3 o—s 0 1 (bare) .. 0 6—oß Good Saltßutter, 6—o 8 Do (in cloth) 0 BJ—O 9J Canter. Cheese. 6J—O 8 Auckland 0 5—07 Hams, 9d|- to lid per lb. .Retail Prices, Farm and Dairy Produce. s. d. s. d. •- s. d a. d. Milk, per qt. 0 Oto 5 1 Ducks each 5 o—6o Butter (fresh) 0 8-0 10 | Geese, each 5 o—6 0 Cheese (new) 0 B—l 0 I Turkeys, per 5 o—7 3 Eggs, per doz. 1 6—o 0 | Bacon, per lb. 0 B—o 10 Lard, per lb. 0 C—o 01 Hanis .. .. 0 9-1 0 Fowls, pair.. 4 C-0 01 Salt Butter.. 1 o—l 3 Butchers' Meat. Beef, per lb. 0 4—o 7 I Pork, per lb 0 6 Mutton .. 0 4—o 51 Veal 0 6 I BREADSTUFFS. IXOTJR. •WHOLESALE. 4 Millers' Price, per ton—lst quality..' £17 Fine Flour—household ".. ...:-;. £14 Adelaide Flour ..' ..£lB Canterbury .. £12 to £14 I^Scconds, £12. Sharps, £710s Bakers' Price, per lb 3d. Bran, Is 6d per bushel. Bread, per 21b. loaf, 4d to 4Jd. Maize, crushed and whole, 4sCdtOiss BISCUIT. Cabin Biscuit, per 1001b, ".. .. .. .Retail, 22s MAIZE, OATS, POTATOES, ETC. WHOLESALE. Maize, 5s ; inferior, 3s 6d to 4s Oats, 5s 6d per bushel. Potatoes, £3 to £3 10s per ton. New Potatoes, £4 to * HB£s ■"# ;;.•;..' Hay, £2 to £4 10s per ton. Straw, £210s to £3 per ton. gg Chaff, £010s per ton. RETAIL. Maize, 5s 8d to 5s 9d per bushel; crushed, 5s Cd Oats, 6s per bushel. Potatoes, 4s 6d per cwt.; new, 7s to 8s Hay, cwt., 4s to 6s. Straw, 4s to 5s per cwt. Chaff, 7s Cd to 8s per cwt. V KAURI GUM ATTD FLAX MARKET. " ■ The following, are the prices in the Auckland market:— ' Gum—Well scraped, best quality .. .. £30 to £32 Ordinary sorts £29 to £30 Flax.—Finest quality ... £21 to £22 Second ditto £14 to £20 Tow £7 to £8. BUILDING MATERIALS. Timber.—Boards and scantling, 100 ft, 9s to 15s at mills, 10s 6d ; planed, tongued, and grooved, 11s , 6d to 17s • _ New. Zealand palings, 5-feet, 10s; G-feet, 12s • ti rfw™? 1! 8 ' P J &a*2 £3 Per 10° '• Puriri P°»ts> £5 per 100 ; Gtt 17»- mt -.q 3S £*l 100° : HoDart' Town Paltags; m., 17s; 6ft., 19s; Hobartown rails, 765. ' L: ' :.: ]■;.■'■■ ■ ■ ■:, .

COAL AND FIREWOOD MARKET.

Co A!.—Newcastle, on Wharf, nominal ; delivered 50s per ton. Bay of Islands, on board ships in port, 25s per ton, delivered 35s ; ditto at the mines 10s per ton. Firuwoot).—Uncut, 14s per ton, delivered ; cut 16s per ton, delivered.

DEATH.

Hughes.—On December 18, at Hobson street, Annio Elizath Jane, infant daughter of Captain Hughes ; aged four months.

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

THURSDAY. DECEMBER 18, 1873.

* For the cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance. For the future in the distance, And *Ti ft cood that we can do

The charge against the doctor of the ship Chile was called on at the Police Court to day, when the evidence taken was of a very extraordinary character. It will be found published in our police report.

The Governor Blackall has been chartered by Messrs Hall and Co. (the contractors) for the new Californian mail service, to convey the New Zealand mails to Kandavu, there io connect with the McGregor, from Sydney. She is a screw of 487 tons register, with two engines of 90-horse power, constructed on the inverted direct-acting principle. The vessel was built at "Waterview Bay, Balrnain, by the Mort's Dock and Engineering Company in 1871, espe cially for the service of the A.S.N. Co. Her saloon, which is very handsomely fitted, is capable of accommodating 60 passengers, while over 100 can be taken in the steerage. Her full complement of cargo is about 350 (tons. Captain Saunders, who is now in eom jmand, is a favorite in Auckland, having ; been1 for some time in the s.s. James Pater son, running between Auckland and the Fijis. Mr Drew, the chief officer, is also !an old acquaintance of many in this port. The Governor Blackall is announced to leave with the English mail on the 22nd instant.

A well-dressed person has been making a house-to-house collection professedly on behalf of a carter who lately broke his leg. This individual has been observed, when passing through the gardens around houses he visits, to pilfer fruit. An inquiry has been instituted, and resulted in ascertaining that the sufferer, in whose interest the canvasser is exerting himself, has no knowledge of his would-be benefactor. The man is a member of a club, and the allowance he receives from that source, and money collected by his fellow-carters, is suf ficient for his support. Whether the self constituted collector ia acting in a bonafule manner or not we cannot say; but it is known that he has. collected a considerable sum, pud he had better at once communicate

with the object of his benevolence or he may soon find himself before a magistrate to answer the charge of obtaining money under false pretences. His appearance has been well noted, and he can be easily identified.

We are requested by "One who Knows" to give insertion to the following explanation with reference to a paragraph in his letter of yesterday : —" Sir, —The expression in my letter of yesterday "having been neglected, by those in charge of her " has been inter preted as a reflection on the child's mother, than whom a more worthy and deserving lady, or more devoted parent, there does not reside in the province. The writer merely meant that the child, whewe affliction receives general sympathy, having been momentarily overlooked, stumbled—a cir cumstance which might reasonably be ex pected to occur, notwithstanding the most devoted carefulness. The intention of the writer was not to make unkind reference either to the child's infirmity or the atten tion of those in charge of her, but simply to protect a deserving servant of the company from an unfair and un warranted attack. The writer would also take the opportunity of asking if Mr Mays would not find it more pleasant, as it would certainly be more beneficial to him, to accept the position, and meet the officers of the Company, and the Company itself, in a frank and friendly way rather than pointing porcupine's quills at them. If so he will find the utmost fairness and friendliness in return. If not, he will only keep himself in a state of irritation to no practical effect."

Our correspondent "Chanticleer's" Racing Notes we are compelled to hold over till to morrow.

A vocal and instrumental concert was given last evening on the beautiful waters of the Waitemata. The concert was given by several of our leading amateurs, who had invited their friends, several boats having been kindly lent for the occasion by the captains of the ships Chile, City of Auck land, and barque Oemsbok, which were lighted with Chinese lanterns. The concert consisted of selections from the operas of "Lurline," <; Bohemian Girl," and " Mari tana," Bishop's and Orpheus glees; also several well-known songs and chorusses.

It is satisfactory to notice from an adver tisement in another column that Owen Jones and Co. require 200 men for works on the railway. Surely there will bo no complaint about the scarcity of employment so long as this demand remains unsatisfied.

A meeting of the Fiji Banking and Com mercial Company was hold to-day (F. Whi taker, Esq., in the chair) for the appoint ment of directors. The following gentlemen were chosen : —Messrs. F. Whitakcr, .). S. Macfarlanc, C. J. Stone, J. Watt, W. Aitken, T. Morrin, and T. P. Gillies.

The public examination of pupils, and distribution of Christmas prizes, at Mr Eraser's High School, will take place to morrow evening.

An extraordinary general meeting of tlie shareholders of the Mutual Mining Invest ment Company (Limited) is announced for this evening in the Young Men's Christian Association Rooms at eight o'clock, for the purpose of receiving the Liquidator's report, and finally winding up the company.

The Good Templars of the Pioneer Lodge will hold their weekly meeting this evening in the Albert-street Temperance Hall.

To the Editor : Sir, —I observe in your paper of last evening some correspondent infers that some resident at the North Shore has been urging me to complain of the North Shore Company's boats. I beg to state that no resident at the North Shore or elsewhere has spoken to me on the subject. What I alluded to at the Harbour Board came under my own personal notice.—Yours, &c. I*. A Philips.

The drawing for the Summer Handicap Sweepstake, comes on tins evening at the Globe Hotel, Wakefiold-street, at eight o'clock. Subscribers are requested to be present.

We would draw attention to an aclvertise ment in another column respecting a hotel for sale in Wellington. We can testify that the one referred to bears the highest character of all the hotels in that city, has the most respectable connection, and doos a roaring trade. On application at this office considerable information on the subject can be afforded. The establishment will be sold at a price which will unquestionably make it a fortune to the purchaser. To per sons in quest of such an opening we know of no better investment, a statement which will be corroborated by all who know anything of Wellington.

The third half-yearly entertainment of the Wesleyan Young Men's Literary Society will be given on Friday evening next, at half-past seven o'clock, in the school-room of Pitt-street Church. We had the pleasure last evening of listening to the rehearsal of the readings^ecitations, and the efforts of the choir, and this entertainment will sur pass any of the preceding ones. The readings are of a good class, and the music excellent. The usual refreshments will be provided, and it is astonishing how the admission fee can be kept so low as one shilling. The Australian Bell-ringers had a full house last evening in the Lome-street now hall, and contributed most successfully to the enjoymenfcof thelisteners. The programme was a repetition of the entertainment of the previous evening, with the exception of the performance on the Chinese fiddle. The over tures of Messrs Seymour and Cullimore on the piano were much- applauded. The bell ringers, with their silver melodies, were greatly praised, as they deserve to be. '' New Zealand is the place to Euralisc," with variations,, was exceedingly well done. The original, from which this is adapted, is ';' Hampstead," for which New Zealand is appropriately substituted, was written and composed by a printer named William Wat kins, of Brighton, England, and to his sur prise immediately became popular. " Ching, Ching " was well received, and exceedingly well performed. Mr Frank Verten was ex cellent in his half-dozen songs, all excellently executed; but as a matter of taste we decidedly prefer the thoughtful and senti mental of the first part. Both however are necessary to suit the extreme tastes of a large audience. The Bell concert was successful, and will grow in favour with the public. Secretaries of public societies are requested to furnish any information which they desire published in the Auckland Almanac not later than to-morrow, as the publication is rapidly approaching completion.

COLONIAL FIRING.

The competitive firing for colonial represen tatives was continued to-day, the Engineers and Scottish Volunteers being the com petitors. The following was the result:— KNWtNEERS. Lieutenant Kitchen 80 Volunteer Hyett •" ... ' :.i ■ ....A: 75 Sergeant Sterling ... ... ... G4 Volunteer McCionagle ... ... ... 53 Volunteer Case ... - ... ... ... 42 Volunteer Eddy ... 37 - SCOTTISH. Volunteer Robinson< A. A ... -: I ... 69 Sergeant Furlong 27 The, firing was under the superintendence of Captain Featon, Artillery Corps. The members of the Itifle Brigado firo to morrow.

AUSTRALIAN TELEGRAMS.

[FER GOVERNOR BLACKALL.]

TWO SHOCKING MURDERS.

THE NEW ELECTORAL BILL

PURSUIT OF TEE ABSCONDER

O'FARREL,

SYDNEY

December 11

Mr G. W. Allen has been appointed Min ister of Justice and Education. Stephen Brown succeeds him in the Council of Edu cation.—The Marquis of Normanby is stiil on a visit to the Governor. Mr Goold has been elected Mayor of Sydney.— A man named Piety has been murdered by a lunatic near Cooma while asleep, and had his skull split open with an axe his head nearly severed from his body. His body was then buried in a creek close by. The murderer was committed for trial. —A tin miner at Ruby Creek found the body of a murdered man partially buried in a prospecting hole on Monday. Two deep cuts were on the forehead. —Phineas Henry, manager of the Maclean Herald, and three others were drowned near Kempsey on Sunday by a aailing-boat upsetting.—The Evening News of ta-day publishes an official report con firmatory of the late discovery of dia monds at Bald Hill, Tambaroora. — A bar dinner was given to Sir James Martin, Chief Justice, on Tuesday last, to commemorate his appointment as Chief Jus tice. —Richard Brownlow, the crack shot, died suddenly from the effects of a sunstroke received at the last inter-colonial rifle match at Melbourne.—Parliament adjourns for the holidays on Friday week. The Mining Bill is progressing slowly.—A number of passages have already been engaged per Macgregor.— The New South Wales journals intend to publish in future summaries only for the Californian mail.—The Catholic residents have arranged a public reception for the coadjutor of the Archbishop.—Mr Parker, solicitor, was arrested on Sunday on a charge of forgery, and dropped dead on reaching the lock-up.

The Sun Foo, tho first steamer for the Torres Straits route, was on" Townsville yes terday morning. She is expected in Sydney on Monday next. The Mining Bill is still in committee — forty-one clauses have passed. The new Electoral Bill, making better provision for the representation of the people in the Assembly has been introduced by the Government. The Assembly is to consist of 90 members, returned from 77 electoral districts. East and West Sydney returns 4 members each. Brahlwood, Caindcn, Canterbury, Carcoar, Gulgong, Liverpool Plains, and East Macquarrie two, and all the rest one. As soon as an electorate entitled to one mem ber has on its roll three thousand electors they will be entitled to two repre sentatives ; and one with two members, on attaining a roll of five thousand electors, will become entitled to three. But such ad ditions, the ninety members might, in course of time, be increased to one hundred and sixty-six. But the population of the whole colony must be much enlarged before anything liko such result can be arrived at. No one can be a candidate for election unless he be both proposed and seconded by persons entitled to vote at the election. And before being nominated every candidate must deposit a sum (not yet fixed), with the returning-ofiiccr. If he goes not get a number of votes equal to one-seventh of the number obtained by the successful candidate lowest on thclist, his deposit is to be forfeited. —Edward Parker, ex-solicitor, was arrested for forgery on Sunday afternoon. He fell dead at tho Watch-house, on the commence ment of the charge being laid against him. He had been struck oil' the rolls several years, and a few j ears ago was sent to gaol for six months for stealing knives and forks from the Royal Hotel.—A. resident at P>al main has been committed for trial on a charge of manslaughter for negligently leaving his well uncovered, through which a boy lost his life.

MELBOURNE.

December 10.

The Lothair Company, Clunes, engaged 150 Chinese miners. Police protection was obtained. The miners are in a most excited state. They erected barricades across tho road and turned out en masse, assisted by their wives, to prevent the entrance of the Chinese labourers. The police in charge of the Chinese, who arrived in coaches, were received with a shower of brickbats and other missiles, and several of the men were in jured. To prevent bloodshed the police withdrew, waiting the result of an applica tion for reinforcements. Work was stopped at all the mines, and the men and women had determined at last advices to resi«t the employment of the Chinese, who since refuse to return.—The Melbourne meat works were burned on Sunday. They were insured. — A fire occurred at Rich mond on Monday, when four houses w«re destroyed and a child burned to death. Me Arthur and Sherrard's crew won the Warehouseman's Cup. — George Young stabbed a man named Kobert Hume at Footseray. Death ensued. The murderer has been committed for trial.—A girl aged fourteen suicided in the Yarra on detection of the theft of a_ piece of ribbon.—The Go vernment are using every endeavour to arrest the absconder O'Ferrell". They have tele graphed by cable to the Agent-General, tell ing him to spare no expense in adopting measures for his capture ; and have also sent messages with the same object to autho rities in -other countries.—The Californian mail steamer Macgregor has attracted a great deal of attention. She is the finest steamer that has ever visited the colo nies. She sails to-day for ' Sydney.— The late Dr Howitt has bequeathed to the University a valuablo entomological collec tion ; also, a £1000 to found a Howitt scholarship.—Detective Mackay has been ordered to proceed to Fiji to make inquiries in regard to the Daphne atrocities ; also, if possible, to secure the apprehension of O'Farrell.

QUEENSLAND.

Brarnstone jhas resigned the Attorney fteneralship.—Tho Government are likely to be ousted when Parliament meets. — Official telegrams in reference to tho Palmer River state that things are going on prettj' well, but that rationa are short and that many aro gone to pack for the Endeavour. The blacks have'speared another man fatally, also a horse. Plenty of gold is being got, but the men cannot leave the river to pro spect.—Miss Brown, a governess at Ipswich, was killed on Thursday—a horse ran away with her and dashed her head against a tree.

ADDITIONAL ENGLISH TELE GRAMS.

THE TICHBORNE CASE,

LONDON

December 3. Jean Line, who gave evidence in the Tich borno trial that he remembered (while steward on board the barque Osprey) the Claimant being rescued from a boat off the Brazilian coast mi 1854, is a released, con

vict, having been discharged last March ironi f Chatham prison on ticket-of-leave after i serving a term of five years' imprisonment, j Great sensation, in consequence of this dis covery has been caused in London.

Jfis Holiness the Hope has issued an ency clical, censuring the German and Swiss Go vernments, has reference to the course re cently pursued in coercing the Roman Catholic hierarchy.

EPSOM HOUSE SEMINARY.

The Christmas break-up with the young ladies of Mrs Lewis's seminary, at Epsom House, previous to going home for the holi days, took place last evening, and was characterised by much good feeling and merriment among the teachers, pupils, and their friends. A large number of the gentry of Onehunga and Epsom were also present to witness the scene of social enjoyment which Mrs Lewis had evidently been at great pains to make. Epsom House is beautifully situated by the One hunga road-side, with pleasant well cultivated gardens, play-grounds, with every facility for advancing the physical edu cation of the pupils, and commanding exten sive views of the surrounding country. The proceedings commenced with a large Christ mas tree distribution of toys among the lesser children of the establishment. The room in which the distribution was made was very tastefully ornamented with Mowers, and "A Merry Christmas " worked with lily-leaves by the young. The programme of the evening comprised polkas, quadrilles, various dances, lancers, waltzes, etc., interspersed with ballads by the younger of the children, ending with the National Anthem. The piano was presided over by Miss Hanley, who sang with much taste one or two pretty ballads to the delight of the company. The Rev. G. M. Nelson, minister of St. Paul's, distributed the first class prizes with appropriate remarks to each of the pupils. He was glad to observe that great progress had been made in the seminary during the past six months, and he felt that the proficiency of the ladies in their vai-ioug studies was due in a great measure to con stant attendance and diligence. First-class prizes were awarded as follows : -Writing, Miss Powley ; reading, needlework, French, and good conduct, Miss Gwynneth ; music, Miss Donovan; ciphering, Misa Butcher; singing, Miss Cleghorn ; French and general improvement, Miss Mossmen ; general attention, Miss A. Kennedy ; and examination prize, Miss May. Second-class prizes were distributed by Mrs Lewis as sub joined. Drawing : Miss Barnes, Miss Ada Symonds, and Miss F. Howard ; English and French, Miss Gwynnetts ; reading, Miss Nicol ; writing, Miss E. Kennedy ; dancing and exercises, Miss Yates ; needlework, &c., Miss Davis, who also obtained a first prize for writing exorcises ; early attendance, reading and ciphering, Miss Lillie Douglas ; French, &c, Miss May ; English, Miss Ellen May ; music, Miss Becston ; and for general improvement and good conduct, Misses Lundon, Barnes, and Gill. Mr Brookfield then came forward, and in the name of the teachers and young ladies pre sented to Mrs Lewis in graceful terms as a tribute of esteem for her kindness and care a beautiful silver teapot and cream-ewer, beautifully chased, the manufacture of Mr Kohn, of Auckland, which unexpected pre sent was feelingly acknowledged by Mrs Lewis. We need only add that the "break up" was a most enjoyable treat, and calcu lated to make good impressions upon young j minds, and inspire kindly thoughts and J cheerful views of life.

EDUCATION IN AMERICA, PHILADEL PHIA.

The American system of national educa tion offers its best example in Philadelphia. Free schools, Avith instruction the most efficient and complete that can be provided, is within reach of all classes, and by a property tax all aro required to contribute to the general good of the community. Although a thoroughly non-sectarian educa tion is insisted on, the principles of Christianity are not ignored, the principal in charge of each school being required to read "ten verses of the Bible without note or com ment "at the opening of each session. The singing of a "suitable" hymn is also allowed. We extract the following from the report for 1572 : —"The education of the youug is a subject the importance of whioh has been so long tacitly acquiesced in and so often ably argued that a complete statement of its claims upon the consideration of the citizen is neither expected nor desired in this place. It is nevertheless true that too many who should understand and estimate it at its real value are so absorbed in the pursuit of wealth and tho development of a material prosperity that they not only fail to appreciate the public school system, but regard the taxes levied for its support as onerous and excessive. Strangely enough they forget that education is the essential preliminary to the material progress to which they devote themselves, and in which they so rejoice. The industrial activity of the day, with the material wealth in which it results, is of comparatively recent growth. It is due to the quickened energies of the inventive intellect, which are due in their turn to the increased and in creasing intelligence of labour. Need it bo added that the intelligence of labour is due entirely to the diffusion of education among the masses, which is peculiarly and pre eminently the boast of modern times ? The wealth therefore that groans under the bur den of the school-tax, and would seek its diminution, or at least evade its legitimate increase, owes its existence to the education which it contemns. Intelligence and skill are no longer confined to classes, but are developed by our free system wherever they are found. The labourer sees his interest in the increased productiveness of machinery, and seeks to continue it. Tho supposed con flicts of labour and capital are daily being reconciled, and not only are the known resources of the community more carefully hus banded, but new means of wealth are opened up. so that the prospect is literally unbounded. When we consider moreover that the inven tions of the past fifty years are but an earnest of those which are certain to be made as science continues her investigations and dis coveries, we must acknowledge the obligation to provide with an enlarged liberality for the instruction of the masses, which in the future, as in the past, must precede as an indispensable condition all mate rial progress and prosperity. Costly though it be, we thus see that educa tion secures a direct pecuniary return that infinitely over-balances the original outlay. Let it be hoped then, that henceforward the low cost of our school system shall no longer be its vaunt, but let our aim rather be to In crease its efficiency, its thoroughness, its comprehensiveness in the confidence that, however much it may cost, the community will not only be better, more intelligent and happier, _ but in the end actually riclier through its agency. Another view in close connection with the foregoing is, that the continued prosperity of a community depends not only on the multiplication of its re sources, but also upon the intelligence and skill with which those resources are managed and distributed. Of a surety education, and education universally and freely diffused' is essential to secure this intelligence and skill; especially is this so in a country

which, like our own, assmnostobe self-govern ing. The complicated relationsbetween capital and labour arc not only difficult to compre hend, but they give rise, if not understood, to those ignorant and dangerous jealousies between the rich and the poor which in France to-day are sapping the foundation of society. Educate the masses and you reduce the number of the poor by teaching labour how to make itself rich. Educate tho masses and you teach the poor that capital is their best friend, without which their estate would be tenfold more wretched. Government, too, is a science which only in telligence can master. Good government is the only security for prosperity ; and what hope of good government can there be with us without the widest diffusion of education among those masses who at last shape and control the administration of its every department. Were there time these argu ments could be enforced in detail, so as to ensure conviction in every doubting mind ; but enough has been said to suggest the line of thought. Enough has been said to show that education, not merely in its elementary, but in its higher branches, should be provided, at least to that j)oint where the youthful mind can be safely trusted to follow up and perfect its own development. It i8 a mistake to suppose that the rudiments are all for which a free system should make provision. We ought rather to emulate our German contempo raries, who, in their burgher schools, pre scribe a range of study as broad, nay, in some respects even broader, than that pursued in our High School."

Professor Porter, of Belfast, remarks from personal observation that a basis is surely being laid by the Educational system of the United States for greatness, grandeur, and stability such as no nation has ever yet attained to.

PROVINCIAL COUNCIL.

Yesterday— continued. ADDRESS IN T REPLY. Mr W. A. Graham seconded the address in reply. Messrs. Reader Wood, Boylan, and Sheehan spoke in support, and Mr Hurst opposed. The address was then put and carried. BILLS. The Movmt Eden and Mount Albert Roads Bills, and a Bill empowering a grant of £0000 to the Education Board were read a first time. GRANTS TO ROAD BOARDS. A message was received from the Superin tendent stating that the grants to Road Boards would be distributed the same as last year, according to the amount of rates and contributions from each district. ROAD BILLS. The Mangapiko and Wharehine Road Bills passed through all stages. The Hauraki District Fire Rate Bill, correcting an error in an existing Act, also passed. TEMPERANCE HALL SITE. The Bill empowering the sale of the present trust property required by the Improvement Commissioners was passed. APPROPRIATION BILL. Mr Reed moved the second reading of this Bill. He explained that the sum asked for (£15,000) was in the same proportion as that voted last year. £10,000 of the amount was already payable, £4500 being for works under contract and in progress, £4000 for salaries and departmental expenses now due, and £1500 for police. Therefore all that was asked for was £5000.

After discussion the Bill was read a second time, and ordered to be committed next day.

THIS DAY.

The Council met at three p.m. to-day. The minutes of preceding day being read and approved of, two private petitions were presented. Several notices of motion were then given.

Mr Sheehan gave notice that he should introduce a motion relative to a juvenile re formatory for Auckland.

MAHURANUI AND PORT ALBERT ROAD.

Mr Shepherd asked the Provincial Secre tary, If he will inform this Council what has been the total cost of surveying the road between Mahurangi and Port Albert to this date ? Also, what has been the cost per mile, and when the Government- expect the above road to be opened for traffic ? Mr Sheehan said the work was General Government work, and no information was in the hands of the Provincial Government. Papers on the subject had been last session laid upon the table of the House, and he would endeavour to obtain copies. Ho could not say when the road would be open. for traffic. QRANT FOR. ROADS IN THE NORTH. Mr Urmiston asked the Provincial Secre tary, Whether the General Government have intimated their intention of handing over the vote of £15,000, or any part thereof, for roads North of Aiickland, to the admin istration of the province ; and if so, whether it is the intention of the Provincial Govern ment to expend any part of the vote in opening up a line of road between Maugapai on the East Coast and the Wairoa at Tanga taroria ? Also to open and improve a road from Mangapai to Tokatoka on the Wairoa ? Mr Sheehan said it was not the intention of the GoYeninient to allow any of the £10,000 to be rushed by any one consti tuency. .SLAUGHTERHOUSES AT NEWMARKET Mr Tonks asked the Provincial Secretary, Why the sum of £2000, voted for a new slaughterhouse last sossion, lias liofc been ex pended for that purpose ? Mr Sheehan said the present Government was notjresponsible for the delay. In justice to the late Provincial Treasurer he would say he was not to blame for the money not hav ing been expended. On the contrary, he had exerted himself very strongly to get the Slaughter-house removed. There had first been a difficulty as to a site, and since this had been overcome the neighbour's had sent a protest. The whole matter would require to be re-considered. HIGHWAYS ACT AMENDMENT. Mr Carleton asked the Provincial Secre tary, Whether it be the intention of the Government to amend section 42 of the Highways Act, IS7I, Amendment Act, 1871? jg|Mr Sheehan said he agreed with the lion, member that some amendment was neces sary, and he would exert himself to bring it about. STEAM TO POVERTY BAY. Mr Johnson asked the Provincial Secre tary, What steps have been taken for es tablishing steam communication between Poverty Bay and Auckland ? Mr Sheehan replied that the Government had lately had an offer of a steamer to ply between the two ports fortnightly at a sub sidy of £1000. The proposal had met with the approval of the Superintendent, and the service would be in operation in a short time. LEASING OF TOLL-BARS. Mr Cheeseman to move, That a re spectful address be presented to his Honor the Superintendent, requesting that the several toll-gates and toll-bars at New market, Remuera, Mount Eden, Newton, Eden Vine, &c, be leased for three months only with a view to revised legislation on the subject.

COAL .AT MANOAWAI I Mr Shepherd to move, That a respect- \ ful address by presented to His Honor the I Superintendent, requesting him to take the necessary steps for testing the coal measures m the vicinity of Mangawai. PETITION. Mr Sheehan to move, That the petition of Henry .lames Reid, of Wanganui, relative to a grant of land, pr§sented last Session be referred to the Petitions and Private Grievance (Jonnnitte'e. NOTICES OF MOTION. Mr Sheehan to move, That a respectful address be presented to the Superintendent recommending His Honor to reserve as a site for Public Offices, lot 50, township of Gisborne, Poverty Bay. Mr Sheehan to move, That a respectful address be presented to the Superintendent recommending His Honor to reserve for a Ferry Station and Public Landing-place allotment No. 238, of the Parish of Waiwera County of Marsden. '

Mr Sheehan to move, That a respectful address be presented to the Superintendent recommending His Honor to reserve for Educational purposes, allotment No. 245 of the Parish of Waikomiti, in the County of Eden. J

Mr Sheehan to move, That a respectful address be presented to the Superintendent recommending his Honor to reserve for edu caiional purposes allotment No. 6, parish of Totara, county of Mongonui. Mr Sheehan to move, That a respectful address be presented to the Superintendent recommending his Honor to reserve for edu cational purposes all that piece or parcel of land in the parish of Arai, county of Mars den, containing thirty-nine acres, and being southern portion of allotment No. 26, and south-western middle portion of Allotment No. 29.

Mr Sheehan to move, That a respectful address be presented to the Superintendent recommending his Honor to reserve for edu cational purposes allotment No. 19 of section No. 6, of the suburbs of Auckland.

Mr Sheehan to move, That a respectful address be presented to the Superintendent recommending his Honor to reserve for edu cational purposes all that piece or parcel of land in the parish of Waitemata, county of Eden, containing two acres, more or less and being the north-eastern portion of allot ment No. 2a of section No. 12 of the suburbs of Auckland.

Mr Sheehan to move, That a respectful address be presented the Superintendent recommending his Honor to set apart as a scoria reserve all that piece or parcel of land in the parish of Waitemata, county of Eden, containing two acres more or legs, and being the middle portion of allotment No. 2a of section No. 12 of the suburbs of Auckland.

Mr Sheehan to move, That a respectful address be presented to the Superintendent recommending his Honor to reserve for a public recreation ground all that piece or parcel of land in the parish of Waitemata, coiinty of Eden, containing 19 acres more or less, and being remaining unappropriated portion of allotment No. 2a of section No. 12 of the suburbs of Auckland.

Mr Sheehan to move, That a respectful address be presented to the Superintendent recommending His Honor to reserve for educational purposes (subject to the right of the Highway Board to take gravel) allot ment No. 235, known as Little Rangitoto, of section No. 16 of the suburbs of Auckland, containing 5 acres, 2 roods, and 29 perches. Mr Sheehan to move, That this Council do now proceed to elect four persons to serve as members of the Board of Education for the ensuing year, as provided-by section sof the Education Act, 1572.

Mr Cheeseman to move, That the petition of James Henry Grattan be referred to the Petitions and Private Grievance Committee.

Mr Hamlin to move, That a respectful address be presented to His Honor the Superintendent, requesting him in accordance ■with, the recommendation of the Steam Sub sidy Committee of Session 26, to subsidise a steamer to run between Onehunga and Waiuku.

Mr Ormiston to move, That in the opinion of this Council it is desirable that the Pilot Station should be removed from the South to the North Head of the Kaipara Harbour, and that a signal staff and beacon be erected in connection with the same, and that steps should be taken to buoy certain portions of the Kaipara waters. That a respectful address be presented to His Honor the Superintendent, requesting him to place upon the Estimates for 1874 a sum sufficient to carry out the above works.

Mr Ivelly to move, That a respectful address be presented to His Honor the Superintendent, requesting him to make arrangements -with the General Government for the purchase of blocks of land in the Bay of Plenty District, suitable for special settlement on deferred payments. Mr Bagnall to move, That a respectful address be presented to His Honor the Supei-intendent, requesting him to place a sum on the estimates to subsidise a steamer to run between Shortland and Ohinemuri.

Mr Tonks to move, That a respectful address be presented to the Superintendent recommending His Honor to reserve as a site fOl a Public Hall and Recreation Ground unsold lots of section 1, suburbs of Auckland, commonly known as Parnell Kise. Mr Brown to move, That a respectful address be presented to His Honor the Superintendent, requesting him to lay on the table any correspondence that has passed between the General and Provincial Govern ments relative to the opening of the Upper Thames. Mr Ormiston to move, That a respectful address be presented to his Honor the Super intendent requesting him to place upon the Estimates for 1874 a sufficient sum for the erection of a wharf on the Mangapai river, at a place already indicated by the District Engineer, and that the necessary approach be included in such grant. Mr Philips to move, That in the opinion of the Council it is desirable a Bill should b» introduced restraining owners of private property from laying out streets in suburban and country districts of a less width than fifty feet. . Ml Philips to move, That a respectful address be presented to his Honor the Super intendent, requesting him to send down a return of the salaries paid to the various grades of police officers, when on dutym Auckland and country districts. .. Mr Sheehan to move, That this Council will, on its rising, adjourn until Tuesday, the 24th March, 1874. ORDERS OF THE DAY.

Mount Eden Road Bill—second reading. Mount Albert Road Bill—second reading. Empowering Bill—second reading. Appropriation Bill—ln Committee. Friday, 19th December, 1873. notice ok motion. . Mr Carpenter to move, That a respectful address be presented to his Honor the Super intendent requesting him to send down a return showing the revenue derivable trom the various educational reserves in the pro-j vince, and setting forth the amount P al£|^, V of such reveuue in aid of the Auck^v 1 College and Grammar School. ' F^"Nj^

HA missionary meeting willj be held vi Sheridan-street Chapel this evening at baii past seven. The Revs. Messrs Tinsley ana Sharp will be in attendance and addressee meeting.

THE EVENING STAB,, THURSDAY, DECBMBBR 18 1878



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. /CAUTION. OLSON'S TOMATO SAUCE. Connoisseurs pronounce this Sauce to tie the BEST for general use in households, and, in 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 TKADE 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, ond wrapped round with his well-known label. M O ¥ OP E N B T) EX HYDASPES, A MAGNIFICENT ASSORTMENT or 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 P.OYS' KNICKERBOCKER SUITS IN VARIOUS MATERIA L8 & STYLES, ALPACCA COATS (BLACK & COLORED), WRITE DRESS SHIRTS, Etc., Etc., Etc. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN, Wholv.sai,e and Retaii, Dravkus, Ci.othikks, &c. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel,) Upper Qtjeex-stiikkt, Auckland. gar n.b.—" Parties in the country favouring It. & B. with their orders may dej end upon their receiving careful atten tion and despatch. Patterns, &c, forwarded post free. [Established 1864.] r\ STEPHENSON & CO.' S celebrated coffjees, "EXHIBITION BRAND" " EAGLE BRAND " "CROWN BRAN I)," Are to be procured at all respectable GnocKiw and Stoukkeetkus throughout the Province of Auck and. D. STEPHENSON & CO. WYNDHAM STREET AVCIC L A N D pHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS. J. COSGRAVE & CO. Are now holding their usual CHEAP SALE OK DRAPERY & CLOTHING At their Premises CANADA BUILDINGS. THE SALE IS NOW ON, And Vt'Al continue during the CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS. J. COSGRAVE & CO. Queen street.