SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

PORT OF AUCKLAND.

SUN-SET: This evening, 6.59 SUN-RISK: To morrow morningl, 5.31 HIGH WATER : This evening, 1.16 ; to-morrow morning, 2.4

ARRIVALS.

H.M.s. Alacrity, Capirin Saunders, from Lebuka Ladybird, s.s.) from the South

DEPARTURES.

Victoria, s s., for Sydney

IMPORTS.

Per s.s; Ladybird from Southern ports :— 1 case samples, 2 bales, 1 parcel, J. Reid ; 3 bales, McArthur, Shera and Co.; 5 cases tobacco, Barnett and Levy ; 1 case tobacco, J. Williamson ; 1 pg stone, Capt. Andrews ; 1 parcel, L. D. Nathan ; 2 cases, 1 cask, Kempthorne, Prosser and Co. ; 1 parcel, J. Edson ; 2 cases, Shirley W. Hill; 1 case, G. Waller ; 1 case, J. Rae ; 1 case, T. Fish ; 2 cases, F. J. Short ; 1 case, Soloman and Margetts ; 1 case, Spencer and H*? 11; 2 cases, P. A. Philips ; 1 case, G. Williamson ; 2 cases, T. S. Jones ; 1 case, order; 2 cases, Combes and Daldy; 1 case, J. C. Hoyte ; 2 boxes gold, 10690z5., B &k. of New Zealand ; 1 parcel, Henderson and Macfarlane ; 2 parcels, B& k. of New Zealand; 1 parcel, Upton and Co, ; 1 trunk boots, Combes and "Daldy ; 3 boxes, 2 cases, Telegraph Office ; 4 kegs paint, Capt Peek ; 1 parcel, Davis ; 1 case, Collector Customs; 12 \ tierces tobacco, 1 i-brl ammunition, 1 case, 1 bundle poles, Major Tisdaall; 1 box, National Bank ; I case fruit Mr McShane ; 1 box, J. Palmer ; 2 cases fruit, Reilly ; 13 do do, Binney ; 20 do do, B. Tonks ; 1 case, Stephenson and Co. ; 10 cases butter, A. Barnes ; 13 do do, M. Hood.

EXPORTS.

Per s.s. Victoria, for Sydney: 152 bales flax, 130 bales tow, J. R. Roberts ; 1 case, Fitzgerald ; 10 bales flax, Owen and Gra ham ;32 sacks fungus, 3 bales, J. Reid; 3 boxes gold, 4,3880z. 9dwt. 6gr., Bank of New Zealand; 1 case sheaves, J. and D. Oxley.

H.M. schooner Alacrity, one gun, Captain Sanders, arrived in harbour this afternoon from Levuka after a passage of thirteen days from that port. We are indebted to Captain Sanders for the following report of the passage : —Left Levuka on the 29th ultimo. Had light south-east winds for the first three days ; afterwards encountered south-west winds with heavy confused sea. On the 4th instant the wind veered roun d to the eastward, and blew very strong. On Sunday, Bth, passed the s.s. Star of the South, then about three hundred miles from Auckland, weather very fine, and light westerly wind. Sighted land (the Bar rier) on Monday 9th. Had calms and light airs along the coast, arriving as above. Under Capt. Sanders on board the Alacrity are Sub-Lieut. Sabben and a crew of twenty three sailors. Capt. Sanders has telegraphed to Capt. Simpson, of H.M.S. Blanche, now at' Wellington, for instruction as to his future movements. It is now nine months since the Alacrity was in Auckland waters; The greater part of that time she has been in Levuka.

The s.s. Victoria took her departure this morning for Sydney with the following passengers : —Saloon -. Mrs S. Garland, Mr A. Nathan, Mr and Mrs J. Herbet and in fant, Mr and Mrs A. Wallis, Messrs 0. Reid, T. Reid, W. Edmonds, H. Watkins. A. Wilkes, Mr and Mrs A. Clark, Mr and Mrs Jno. Lascelles, Mrs and Miss Durrell, Mr Moriarty, Messrs Jno. Morton, Jas. Jones, Geo. Thorne, G. Fletcher. Steerage: Messrs Wm. Canty, Wm. Tressideer, Jno. Lane, Jno. Matthews, Wm. Costello, Jno. Watson, Jno. Goldswbrth, Lewis Brown, F. West-. pfahl, J. Street, Wm. Jones.

The yachts Ida Zeigler and Swift have gone down this afternoon to Bangitoto for the purpose of raising the yacht Pearl at low water this evening.

A difficulty if*, experienced in finding a berth at the wharf for thejjghip Wave Queen. The Mikado will occupy the outer main T for some days after her arrival from the South. It is probable the Wave Queen will remain in the stream till after the departure of the mail steamer.

The repairing of the schooner Golden Isle is being rapidly executed by the workmen of Messrs Armstrong and Newbury.

A sail in sight is signalled as we go to press. It is supposed to be the ship Allaha bad.

The s.s Ladybird, H. J. C. Andrew, com mander, arrived in Manukau harbour, at 9 a.m. this morning. She left Port Chambers at 5 p.m. on the the 3rd, arrived at Lyttel ton at 3 p.m. on the 4th; sailed at 4.30 p.m. on the sth, arrived at Picton at 10 p.m. same night ; sailed at 1.30 a.m., on the Bth, arrived at "Nelson at 11 a.m. same day ; sailed at 2 p.m. "on the 9th, arrived at Taranaki at 8 a.m. on the 10th ; sailed at 3.15. p.m. same day, arrived here as above. Experienced strong head wind from Lyttel ton: to Wellington, and from thence fine weather. She brings thefollowingpassengersj: —Mr and:; Mrs Hoskins, Mr and Mrs Cole ridge, Mr aud Mrs Genever, Dr and Mrs Roddlo and three children, Mr and Mrs Wil ison, Mrs H. J. C. Andrew, Miss Lodge, Miss Gwynneth, Mr Coleridge, Mrs Turton and two children, Mrs Clegg, Mrs Powley, Messrs Parker, Turton, Green, Street, Pat terson, Hansen, Roskle, Cunningham, Mcßeath.—We are indebted to MrDough erty, purser, for report and files.

The efforts to raise the cutter Avon proved successful last night. The cutter is now afloat, and is not so much damaged as was anticipated.

The yacht Columbia has been successfully floated. Neither of the bodies of the two men who were supposed to be on board during the gale have been found.

The barque Bella Mary began discharging her cargo yesterday. This ship fully sustains her well earned character of as sound and taut a trader as comes into the port of Auckland. Her goods are being turned out in perfect condition.

The survey for the damage done to the stern and counter of the barque Lauderdale, in the late gale, was made yesterday. The. examination of the injuries inflicted on the stem can only be made when the barque has been beached or docked. The former process will have to be resorted to here in default of any convenience for the other operation. The departure of the ship Chile for Lon don has been postponed owing to the injury she received in the late gale. The contract for the repairs has been given to Messrs Bigelow and Gowk, for the sum of £600.

Preparations are being made for raising the cutter Otahuhu. A chain has been placed under her and a crane will be brought into use to lighten her off the bottom. An attempt to float her will be made this evening at low water.

COMMERCIAL.

Mr R. Arthur reports Canterbury bacon in cloth, (no brand) Sd ; bare, 6d to 6^d ; hams, 7|d ; jowls, 3d ; potatoes, 3s 6d to 4s; onions, |d to Id ; apples, Id to lfd ; pear.*, id to l|d; plums, l|d to 2id; mixed biscuits, 5Jd to 6d ; bran, Is 6d per bushel. Y llf .At Messrs Tonks and Co.'s sugar sale to iAi^ayj.on account of whom it may concern, sugars, more or less* damaged, duty paid. ---'ii6ld^t'42saod and 43s per cwt,

Messrs Cochrane and Son's grocery sale to-day was but thinly attended, and a num ber of the articles were not sold. Arrow root sold at 7d ; sago, 3}d ; tapioca, 7d ; Eleme raisins, Cd ; ginger Is 2|d.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under :—

For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p m, and to-morrow at 10.30 a m For Kawau, per Lady T3o\veii, to-morrow, at 10 am For Mahurnngi, Matakan'a, Mangawai, Waipu, &c, per Lady Bowen on Saturday next, at 10 a m For Taranaki and Southern provinces, per Ladybird, on Monday next, at 7 am For Norfolk Island and New Caledonia, per Clio, on Monday next, at 9 am For the undermentioned places, per s.s. Mikado, on Monday, 16th instant, as under : — For Fiji.Sanri wich Islands.TJnited 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. Letters bearinglate fee will bereccived until 11 a.m For money orders, registered letters, and news papers, at 9.30 a.m. For Norfolk Island and New Caledonia, per Clio, on Monday next, at 9 a m

(Signed)

S. B. Bisa. Chief Postmaster.

NOTICE TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Churchgoer (Otahuhu).—We cannot open up such a discussion through our columns. Every congregation has an undoubted right to decide questions of that character for itself, and every individual in a con gregation, no matter what his calling, is entitled to take part in the affairs of the Church he is connected with.

BIRTHS.

Dacre—On 10th instant, at St. Mary's Eoad, the wife of James Dacre, of a son.

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

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1874.

For the cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future in the distance. And thft s-ood that we can.do

A proposal of considerable importance was brought-under the notice of the Harbour Board at its meeting yesterday. A letter from Mr J. B. Russell was read requesting that a ninety-nine years' lease of the fore shore in front of his property (adjoining the residence of Mr W. L. Rees at the North Head) should be granted him conditionally upon his undertaking to construct within two years a graving dock of sufficient capa city ■to dock the p.s. Gulden Crown, and vessels of her class not drawing over Sft. of water. An alternative proposal was submitted, in which Mr Russell undertook to construct the dock and have it ready for use within twelve months upon receiving the lease and a bonus of £1000 from the Board. This proposal places in a practical form what we have all along advocated in reference to the construc tion of small, or, as they have been aptly j termed, "baby docks." An article which appeared in our columns twelve months ago, referring to the same subject, expresses our views as fully, as anything., we can say now. It will not,, therefore, be deemed out of place to re-publish the following extract from the Staroi February 21, 1873 :—" The work of constructing a large dock involves the expen diture of such an amount of money as would preclude its being undertaken by private enterprise for many yeara to come. It is, therefore, peculiarly the work of the Board which is specially charged with the interests of our port; but these smaller docks are works that might and probably would be undertaken by private individuals or com panies if sufficient inducement were held out by the Harbour Board. We would suggest that a portion of the harbour enu^vvmlats

suitable for the construction of a small dock

be offered for lease on a long term at anomi

nal rental conditionally upon a dock of a certain capacity, to be defined by the Har bour Board, being constructed within a limited period." The proposal made by Mr Russell fulfils in all points the suggestion embodied in the paragraph above quoted. A small dock for coasting craft is really more urgently required than a dock that will berth the Mikado, and it ia legitimately within the functions of the Harbour Board to encourage by every means in its power the construction of all works calculated to benefit the port. Such a concession as that claimed by Mr Russell should not of course be con fined to that gentleman, but ought to be extended to any one who will submit to similar conditions, and who undertakes to build a substantial dock subject to the approval of the Board. We should like to see the shores of our harbour thickly studded with small docks, and we are convinced that the money derived from the increased trade of the port would more than recoup the loss of rental—or rather the waiving of all right to rental for a fixed period, as at i.resent this endowment is not yielding anything to the revenues of the Board. We trust the Board will treat in a liberal spirit the proposal just submitted for its acceptance, and will encourage other capitalists to follow in the same direction.

The Rev. S. Edger in a letter to a con temporary to-day, says -.—" A friend yester day asked me whether I had seen a letter from Dr Wallis in the Evening Star. I have not, nor should I have known of its existence but for that friend's question." He then proceeds to comment on what he would have us to believe his friend fold him about the nature of Dr Wallis's communication. In like manner it will be remembered, when replying in the Cross to a letter which appeared in the Star, the reverend gentle man said he never by any chance reads this paper; in that instance too we suppose a convenient friend told him all about it. It seems rather opposed to our ideas of a sin cere desire for accuracy that a person should depend on the word of another for infor mation which he might so readily obtain for himself ; and it is especially strango that the Rev. Mr Edger should plead ignorance of the existence of Dr. Wallis's letter since we took very special precautions to supply him with the information. When, therefore, Mr Edger says he did not know of its existence, we tell him plainly th-.t we do not believe him. Depending, as he admittedly does, on the reports of the Cross for the I.cv Dr Wallis's opinions on the observance of the Lord's Day, we can easily understand wherein his error lies, and we must .again caution the public against placing the least reliance on the productions of our contemporary's " Church Goer," which, owing to their in accuracy, are a positive annoyance to the ministers of Auckland. If men of ordinary intelligence were sent to convey the spirit of the pulpit to the people through the Press some benefit might ensue, but " Our Church Goer's" knowledge of theological questions is evidently so very hazy that? the result of his attendance at church would be amusing if it were not misleading. One or two examples from the sermon reported in yesterday's issue of the Crosa will suffice to show this. We defy the writer himself or any body else to furnish an intelligent interpre tation of the following sentence which he has given birth to :—" From the present widely-spread and diversified forms of opinion it was useless to expect anything doctrinal although Scripture looked upon us as rational creatures, and left much to ourselves." Again, the intelligent reporter writes :— "The Law and the prophets only gave us general principles, and it was for us to apply them ; but in the New Testament these principles were clearly laid down, and we were bound to adhere to the letter of the law for instance, those regarding baptism and the Lord's Supper." What the reve rend gentleman did say was, that under the law of Moses certain plain rules were neces sarily laid down for observance ; but in the New Testament only general principles were treated of, which we, as intelligent and rational beings, were left to apply according to the circumstances of the times in which we live. He instanced infant baptism and the participation of women in the sacrament of the Lord's Supper as duties for which there was no direct command in the New Testament, and yet the great bulk of Christians regarded them as scriptural. Our readers will observe that what the rev. gentleman did say, and what he is reported by the Cross to have said, are precisely opposite. So much for the reliability of Mr. Edger's source of infor mation. But no one for a moment supposes Mr Edger desires either correct information or wishes to argue this Sunday question fairly. That cannot be done through the columns of a newspaper, and if Mr Edger were as eager for controversy as he professes to be he would have accepted Dr Maunsell's challenge to come out on' the platform and discuss it publicly, a proposal which we are led to understand Dr Wallis is also: willing to carry into effect. Mr Edger, like many men of the same stamp, while • indulging in endless platitudes about, "enlightened opinion," moral obli gation; and brotherly love, loses no opportunity for getting a back-handed slap at his clericpl brethren. He accuses others, of inconsistency, and professes to be lieve that "no good can be done but by convincing the., judgment and winning the conscience," yet is he not the re cognised leader of a party who would compel people by law in the matter of what they choose to drink ?' To quote his own words : "Can it really be that our people listen to such' childish contradictions ?" If Mr Edger.. extended his researches beyond the calm contemplation of his own infinite perfections,, and . pondered on the wholesome truths concerning himself, which he tells us he so studiously avoids reading, he would probably awake to a sense of the silliness of the oracular utter ances which he at present mistakes for en lightened thought and logic.

The thermometer to-day registered 114° Faht. in the sun.

The two mails from Coromandel, sub merged in the wreck of the steamer Chal lenger, have been recovered by means of a diver. There were found intact, and the correspondence, which was very little the worse for the accident, has been delivered. The captain of the Challenger has lost all his olothing, except what he had on when the vessel went down.

The City Band, under the control of Mr Impey, bandmaster, will play at six o'clock this evening in front of Government House. The selections of music are very choice.

Mr Hoskins and Miss Colville will give th<*»"r farewell entertainment in the Choral U<* J, this evening, as, per [advertisement.

An infiuentially signed memorial has been prepared for presentation to the City Coun cil praying that a half round brick drain be substituted for the one at presented existing in Stanley-street. The propriety of this step will be admitted by all who have come within the influence, at no matter what dis tance, of the stench arising from that drain. The heavy rush of water from the Domain and high lands surrounding Stanley street will most inevitably burst any small pipe, and a greater nuisance than be fore must result. If the proposal embodied in the memorial were carried out all foul matter would be driven in to the sea by the rush of water down the sewer, and so the nuisance would be effectually abated. A permanent work will be found much cheaper in the end than any temporising measure.

■ The Education rate in Hawkes Bay is at present the same as in Auckland, a house hold tax of 20s. But it was found that schools multiplied, and the expenses attached to their support increased faster in propor tion than did houses, and it became neces sary to add to the burden of taxation. The uniform household rate was abolished by the Provincial Council during its last session, and a sort of sliding scale of rating adopted in its place. _ This new system of taxation is to come into force next July.

To the Editor : Sir, —In the Evening STaVB, of February 7, a resident (" Pater") states that owners of property will be de lighted to learn that some steps are to be taken by the City Councillors to improve the drainage of that district, -md saddle the Distillery Company with the cost. To such a " step" I trust the Company will not sub mit. As ratep-ayers equally with the in habitants of Alten Road and Albert-street, which have been provided with covered drains and paid for out of the general rates, they, the Company, are equally entitled to covered drains. But now, sir, I put the questions, Will the Albert-street covered drain which is now perpetrating a filthy disgusting nuisance into the harbour near Queen-street ? will the Alten road covered drain perpetrating a like nuisance into the intake surrounding the Union Saw mills, Parnell ? and will Ahe covering up the length of Stanley-street drain prevent or crre the evils complained of ? Sir, let the examples of wasted rates spent in the execu tion of those works speak in unmistakable language. They will not ; they do not. The deep sewage system of Auckland is only a distillery of noxious gasses from the contents of elongated cesspools, instead of being used only for the draining of the flood waters. A different method for dealing with most descriptions of nuisances I must defer to my next.—Yours, &c, J. B. Strange.

Tn consequence of several hundred Catholic parishes in Germany not being provided with priests legally entitled to' perform the functions of their sacred office the German Emperor, after long hesitation, has con sented to the introduction of a bill sanc tioning civil marriage and civil registration of births and deaths. The bill is naturally regarded as a most momentous measure in a country the educated classes of which, being estranged from the Catholic as well as the Protestant Church, have been long connected with their respective denominations chiefly by the laws compelling ecclesiastical cere monies in case of marriage, birth, and death. Marriage being declared a purely civil act — as it, indeed, always has been in Germany, exo'-p. for the List 200 years-the necessity for undenominational cemeteries is expected shortly to arise in consequence of the priests declining to bury persons that have lived in unconsecrated wedlock. Cemeteries, in fact, ' are even now losing their denominational character, Old Catholics being constantly buried, with the assistance of the police, in Catholic churchyards despite the protests of the priests. Baptism, therefore, which is enforced by law, will shortly be the only obligatory connection between the Christian churches and those professing to belong to them in this country. Another and very important result of the bill, it is anticipated, will be the daily occurrenceof intermarriages between Christians and the large and highly influential body of German Jews.— Home News, A terrible prairie 'fire swept over twenty five miles of country near the Omaha and South-Western Railroad in Saline and Jefferson counties, Nebraska, on October 14. Many houses and large quantities of grain were destroyed. At Wilbur, ten school children were caught in the flames. Three perished on the spot, three more will die, and four more are dreadfully burned, but will recover. Mrs Morley, mother of three of the children, ran to help them and received fatal injuries.

There has been a great fire in Valparaiso, South America, between Mohu and Victoria streets. Nine or ten persons lost their lives by falling walls.

A grand concert was given last night in the Otahuhu Public Hall by a company of amateurs in aid of the expenses of shinglin^ the Catholic Church at Otahuhu. There was a capital attendance, Protestants as well as Catholics giving their support to the laudable object of the entertainment. The concert was divided into two parts. Part I. began with a pianoforte duet by two ladies, who acquitted themselves admirably, and received well merited applause. A glee, which followed, entitled the " Chough and Crow," did not go so well as it might have done. There was an obviOus tendency on the part of some of the singers to mince their words, which did not add to the sucess of the rendering, A song, " Fading Away," by a Lady, and a reading by Mr Plunket, were fair performances. That splendid song, "The Blind Girl to her Harp," fortunately fell into good hands. The fair songstress made a great hit, and was forced to make a second appearance. A gentleman amateur who was to contribute two'songs found the first too much for him, and precipitately returned into private life. In the second part another instrumental peformance by two ladies _ was very successful. The glee, " Fairies," wanted power, but was otherwise well sung. A nervous young gentleman then contributed a song, "which would per haps have been highly successful if the words could have been heard at ad. Sons by a lady, "O, Gently Breathe," was very fairly and evenly rendered. A second read ing by Mr Plunket was much better than the first, and gave great satisfaction. The other performances do not call for special mention, except perhaps we ought to mention the well intentioned efforts of some juveniles who contributed two choruses. Looked at from a mercenary point of view the affair was a decided success. Among the clergy present were the Revs Father Fynes, McDonald O'Dwyer, O'Hara, Golden, and Simpson. An omnibus conveyed a large number of Auck land friends into Ota,huhu to the concert last evening. The party returned to town at an early honr this morning. A dance followed the concert.

The Secretary of the, Irish Laborers' Association writes to the London Press that he has received from the Uni'ed States pro posals of engagements for twenty thousand men.

" I never read the Evening Star." T , Samuel Edger, B A l value not my daily loss, In reading ne'er the Evening Star, While I can kneel before the Cross, Where my own sweet effusions are. >; Happy man 1

We have a copy of the rules of the St. Matthew's Sunday-school singing class before us. This class has made much pro gress under the leadership of Mr Webb, who takes great interest in the progress ot the young members in the art of smgiug, and we must say, from personal atte^ t,on ' that great credit is due to Mr Webb for his untiring labours in this direction. The six rules of the class are such as any child can understand, being in easy and in telligible English. The class meets for prac tice every Friday evening at seven o clock, when all members are expected to be in attendance, and the class closes punctually at a quarter-past eight. We notice futher that parents of the children are invited, so that they may not only watch the improvement of the young singers, but see that they return home at proper time, as it is undesirable that children should loiter in the streets. We believe, that if the simple rules of the class be carried out they cannot fail in being productive of benefit in more ways than one to the members of Mr Webb's sin£*ing class.

Our correspondent Matilda is puzzled about the meaning of the word "rum-pum," and wishes to know what it means. She has searched the pages of all the modern diction aries in vain, and believes that the word was beyond the knowledge of the immortal Johnson himself. We have made enquiries and find that "rum-pum" means a fatal neck-tie, and may be appropriately applied either to the hangman's noose or the matri monial knot. Matilda, beware !

The question of water supply is agitating the minds of the people of Napier. A local journal says : —" One of the projects is a grand scbeme to bring water in nine-inch mains from an elevated natural rerervoir on the Taupo line, ten miles from Napier. This is said to be within " easy reach and cost" —namely, nine thousand or ten thousand pounds. We cannot see the necessity for any such expensive and elborate scheme, to carry out which the sum of ten thousand pounds would be probably found inadequate. The artesian supply is within much easier reach and cost, and, being practically un limited, would be amply sufficient for all re quirement."

The united sons of Erin, resident at the Thames, have resolved to spend St. Patrick's Day in a lively and proper manner. They will meet in St. George's Hall in the morning, form a procession to the Catholic Church, and after service, will proceed either to Parawai or Tararu, as may be fixed upon, and where sports will be held, finishing up with a grand hall in honor of the patron Saint.

The Mechanics' Institute at the Thames, has lost one of its firm friends in Mr Jevons, who was a life member and subscriber from the earliest days of the Institute.

The cadets of the various companies of volunteers of the Auckland district met at Mount Eden range yesterday for the purpose of firing the match according 10 certain para graphs in the prize firing regulations. Major Cooper not being able to attend. Captain Derrom filled the Major's position. The ranges were 100, 200, and 300 yards seven shots at each range. The score were as follows :-J. Partington, R. 8., 74 ; G. King, G.S., OS ;D. Gillies, G.S., 68; H. Rattray, G.S , GS ; A. Beale, R.B , (55 ; E. Trenwith, Sir G.G., 63 ;C. Russell, Engineers, GO • J. Williams, G.S., 59 ; A. Mears, Engineers, ■)9 ; A. Yates, Sir G.G., 5S ; R. Bigtrs, R. 8., 08; F. Combes, G.S.. 57; T. Hanna, Sir G.G., •>/ ; G. Campbell, Sir G.G., 52 ; W. Firth, GS., 51 ;F. Cleveland, Victoria, 49- W Mears, Engineers, 48 ; E. Ward, G.S.,' 45- A Saunders, Engineers, 45; E. Castelli. G.S*., 44 ; J. Eady, Engineers, 43 ; S. Firth, G.S.. 42; P. Beale, 8.8., 40; A. Brown, Engineers, 33 ; A. Burton, Victoria, 23. The following are the prize winners, and the amount of their prizes :—Partington, £4 • King, £3 10s ; Gillies, £3 ; Rattray, £2 10s ; A. Beale, £2 ; Trenwith, £2 ; C. Russell, £1 ; F. Williams, £1 ; A. Mears, £1 ; Yates. £1 ; Biggs, £1.

The funeral of Mr Bernard Waymouth took place yesterday evening at the conclu sion of the inquest on the body, in the Pro testant cemetery of Auckland. The imme diate relations and a few friends of de ceased followed the body to its last resting place, and the burial service was performed by the Rev. Mr. Mitchell, of St. Matthew's. Bernard Waymouth was in his 2Gth year, and about three years ago settled in the island of Waiheke, where by his per severance and almost unaided industry he established himself as a boat-builder with every prospect of success. He was the second son of Mr John Waymouth, accountant of this city, and a nephew of Mr Bernard Way mouth, principal surveyor at Lloyds', London. His genial and generous disposition had long endeared him both to the Euro pean and native inhabitants of Waiheke, who deeply regret his untimely end.

We rejoice in the death of Mirambo, a mighty prince of Central Africa. We can bear it says, with despots who observes the decencies of life; butatyrant who dresses hi m selt in a single banana leaf, and on Sundays .wears only one ring through his nose, cannot be countenanced conscientiously. A mon arch who would take the trousers sent from missionary-inspired ladies of Aberdeen, split them in half, fill them with sand, and make a war club with each leg cannot be forgiven on the ground of mere eccentricity. Mi rambo had a habit of shoving his crown suddenly under his son when the prince went to sit down, so that the spikes would make him screech. The father enjoyed this joke as much as if he had been brought up •and educated on a comic journal.—/? F Newsletter.

THE WRECK OF THE CHALLENGE.

We have been furnished by Mr Thomas N. Murphy with the following facts con cerning the melancholy loss of the cutter Challenge in the Bangitoto Channel :— " Sir,—ln looking over the Daily Southern Gross of to-day 1 noticed a letter from Alfred Arnold, one of the survivors of the boa., Challenge, m which he states that he had a signal of distress flying at 3 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, and also that it was observed.from the English ship Wave Queen at that hour o which he has proof. Now first^ of all, at three p.m. on Saturday afternoon there was scarcely any wind at all and at 4 p.m , when the Cus tom-House boat was running down to the ship, towards Rangitoto Reef, I distinctly saw the Challenge standing across from Kangitoto Reef towards the Noiih Head with all sail set and about three-quarters of a mile to windward of the ship, which had l come to an anchor, topsails aback, courses clewed up, inside of Rangitoto Reef We I were quite close to them; ' there were no signals flying at all then. And standing towards the western- shore we saw the waterman's boat with Dr. Phil^n^ and Sergeant Baker just after leaving the I snip so that it is monstrous for Arnold to say that his signals were^seen from the Wave Queen at 3 p.m. ; it must have been 3 SO before DrPhilson left. The Custom House boat remained about one hour and a half alongside, and I, myself, was on board speak ing to several of the passengers during the time, so that if anything unusual had been seen from the Challenge I think I ?i? d }™ heaJ d xt- U must have been, 5.45 or 6 p.m. when we started for Auckland !

with single-reefed lug-sail. We stood over to the western shore, and passed the Challenge a second time about five or six yards to windward. Two men were sitting on| the thwarts, apparently all right as far as we could judge. If anything was vv rong then why did not Arnold hail the boat as we passed? We could have easily spoken to each other. At this time it must have been G. 30 p.m., as our lug halyards carried away twice, which caused some delay to repair and reeve afresh, and I can positively say that no one in our boat saw any signal of any description. The conclusion come to was that the men were fishing, as the men appeared to take things easy. I will leave the public to judge whether Captain Bur gess or Sergeant Baker, water police, are are likely persons to turn their backs on a boat in distress in calm weather and smooth water, which it was at the hour stated by Arnold, as the breeze only freshened about 4.30 or 5 p.m., when any small boat could have been pulled about in safety if properly managed. Of the Wave Queen's captain, officers, and seamen 1 will not say anything, i think them fully capable of defending themselves. My statement can be borne out by Mr Brodie, the Boarding Officer and Searcher, who was in charge of the boat, H. Halbrooh, waterman, J. Dower, coxsvain, Power, boatman, and your humble servant. P.S.—Since writing the above Captain Burgess informed me that the signal was not hoisted up until about quarter to seven p.m., when volunteers were immediately called for by the first mate of the ship Wave Queen, which was promptly answered by the crew. Excuse my lengthy explanation, but it is un fair to everybody to allow such statements to pass uncontradicted.—Thomas Murphy.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

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

DRUNItENNESS

John Kavanagh, a decent-looking man, was charged with this offence, and said he very much regretted the circumstance, but he did unfortunately get drunk. Fined ten shillings and costs, or 48 hours' imprison ment. VAGRANCY. John Leslie, alias Tom Brown, was charged under the Vagrancy Act of 18GG with being a rogue and vagabond, and with having no visible lawful means of employment. Prisoner, a most wretched looking man, pleaded guilty, but said he was a fugitive sailor, and reduced to want. His Worship said prisoner presented a shocking sight, and in accordance with a request from Mr Broham the case was remanded for a week in order that enquiries might be made respecting him. ■PATRICK LYNCH AGAIN. Patrick Lynch, known as the " Dedwood prowler," was brought up on a charge of being a rogue and vagabond, and as having no visible lawful means of enployment. Detective Ternahan deposed that he found the prisoner lying on a vacant piece of ground near the Council Chambers. He was known as a petty thief, and had frequently been in gaol for drunkenness, vagrancy and larceny, and it was a remark able fact that when prisoner was in Mount Eden there were no petty larcenies com mitted, but as soon as prisoner was at liberty the petty thefts immediately recommenced. Prisoner would not work, but preferred the life of a vagabond. Detective Jeffrey had known the prisoner for five years ; he was an idler, and what is usually termed a " loafer."

A long catalogue of crime was read against the prisoner, who said he was anxious to go to work at Otahuhu.

His Worship informed prisoner that the Court would assist him in that direction; he must gojto'Mount Eden for twelve months, and undergo hard labor, and he would see that it was carried into effect.

UNRULY SAILORS,

Thomas Jobson and Edward Ross, two sailors on board the ship Chile, were charged with absenting themselves without leave.

Prisoners pleaded guilty, but Captain Thompson was willing to look over the offence if thy would go back to the ship and do their duty.

His Worship remarked upon the folly of their conduct, and said they certainly ought to be grateful to their captain for his gener ous offer to take them back, and save them from a month's imp-isonment. The men, on promising to go back and work, were discharged.

SUMMONS CASFaS

Mr Edward Bartley, builder, appeared in answer to a charge of committing a breach the Building Regulations of the city by erecting a building in Customhouse-street without the authority of the Inspector of Public Buildings. Mr Laishley, who appeared for Mr Bartley, pleaded guilty. Mr J. B. Russell appeared for the City Council, and Mr Brodie appeared to watch the case.

Mr Laishley, for the defence, stated the offence was committed without Mr Bartley's knowledge, as he was engaged at the Supreme Court at the time.

Mr Russell argued that Mr Bartley, who undertook the building, was responsible and he pocketed the money. He had made an application to the Inspector of Public Buildings, who refused him, and it was dOne in spite^ of the Corporation, and that Mr Bartley's being engaged on the jury was no excuse for the infringement of the regula tions, and he should certainly pay the costs. Mr Laishley urged that Mr Anderson had .advised his client to write to the Council. His Worship said that if Mr Bartley had erected a building in opposition to the regu lations, and that the building was of such a character as to endanger the lives cf the people, he must certainly be held responsible. Mr Laishley considered that, in the face of all the extenuating circumstances of the case, his Worship might fairly deal with the case aud impose a nominal fine on his client, who would not willingly offend against the regulations, and allow costs for his appearance on the occasion of the adjourn ment of the case.

His Worship said he thought this case ought riot to have been brought before him, as it was adjourned by some one else, who had stated that the costs should abide the result of the hearing, from which he certainly dissented ; his Wor ship thought that Mr Brodie was quite competent to conduct the case without a solicitor, and his Worship did not like to deal with matters commenced before some one else.

Mr Bussell said that Mr Brodie was quite competent, but when he had such a shrewd solicitor as Mr Laishley to contend with, who had been complimented by the judge of the Supreme Court, it was necessary to employ a solicitor.

Mr Laishlev objected to personal satire. Mr Russell said his remarks were not satirical ; he did not intend personal satire His Worship said whether satirical ornot he •must conscientiously assert that Mr Laishlev always conducted his cases remarkably well and he was certainly entitled to a great deal of credit. * Mrßussell was again about to speak when his Worship said he could not allow any more speeches. He contended that the case was not satisfactory to him. Mr.

Bartley would appear to be in jeopardy W day. Tt appeared to him that Mr Bar. W^* " got leave from Mr. Waller, of theffiv ad * Board, and that as the city authority vl not consented, the present case had V, brought forward. JTe further said thai defendant had pleaded guilty a fine mn_. if inflicted. But he, however, should lib ?"' go carefully into the matter and takett to give his decision. He would, .herefn. 16 give judgment on Saturday. e >

A CHIMNEY ON FIRE. Hugh McKinnon was charged with alio ing his chimney to take fire on the ev&i* of the sth inst. Venuig Mr Broham said the house was in a thickl populated neighbourhood, and the chimn was very foul. c? Prisoner was sorry; but he was ill, an( j • great poverty in consequence of his illness Mr Broham, under the circumstances consented to withdraw the charge m prisoner was allowed to depart free of expense. '

MR MACREaIDY in court. Mr Thomas Macready appeared in answer to a charge of using abusive language to wards one James Dempsey, on the 9th inst Mr Joy appeared for complainant anri Mr Beveridge for the defence. tt

His Worship wished to know if ft'W necessary to proceed with this case. Counsel tried to arrange matters, but failing the case was opened by the r e 'adb_ of the charge. ° James Dempsey deposed that he vai 8 contractor, and engaged largely in contract! He was near Mr Porter's shop on Monday morning last, when Mr Macready came 1 to him in a blusterous manner and stormed tremendously. He never saw him walk bo quickly. When Mr Macready said "Demp. sey, what is that you have been sayingatoi me?" Witness replied that he ha_ n jj nothing disrespectful of him. He replied " Dempsey, you are a d— liar and a Hacfc. guard.'* There were a number of persons present. He had not given the slightest pro vocation for such conduct. It was certainly alarming. He went in fear. To Mr Beveridge :He had understood that Mr Macready. went to the Board of Commisioners for the express purpose of doing him out of a contract for which he had tendered. (Mr Dempsey here gave tie history of the matter). He called upon Mr Macready in relation to the report, whore plied that he had said nothing against him while the tenders were under discussion. He did not say Mr Macready was an un principled man, he only said he m "blusterous."

Mr Joy objected to this course of examina tion.

Complainant said he certainly said, 01 meant to say. " You must be a brute." Mr Macready used the terms mentioned to him, and he could not say what he said beside, as he mumured away in the distance. He then went to Mr Cameron for that gentleman to use his influence with Mr Macready, and try to soften him down, as he did not mh to be out at elbows with Mr Macready, as he was a man of means, and witness had to live by his labor.

John Minnis, a workman, was in Queea street at the time when the alleged offensive language was uttered. He heard Mr Macready call complain ant a "liar and rogue," His delivery was not of a gentle character, but might have been heard across the Btreet. Thomas Lutton also heard the lang-aage; complained of, and Mr Macready. appearei to be terribly up in his temper. He shook his great stick in a menacing manner; ajid shook his sides too. He knew that the words were used towards Dempsey because he looked straight at him. There was no mistake about that. This being the case for the prosecution, Mr Beveridge addressed the Court for the defence. ,!■-.'

Mr Macready was then examined, and ) deposed that he was a commissioner under m ■ the Auckland Improvemeut Act, and in the f course of last weekjtenders were received for r certain improvements, when complainant ■ was among the tenderers. Mr Joy objected to this mode of evidence, i for the purpose of finding justification, Mr Macready said he would make no re-• SI marks upon the tenders, and he made none I either way at the meeting. Subsequently ■& Mr Dempsey came to his house and insulted § him upon the matter, which caused his cook I (who was a countrywoman of complainant*) m to say that he ought to be kicked out/of ||&j doors. Mr. Dempsey called him a'diit. |||| hound, and he retaliated by dubbing him > h liar, etc. He was not excited at the time, j!;". but as cool as a cucumber. Dempsey pro fesses to be a paragon of innocence. Mr Stevenson was about to be called, but M Mr Joy objected as he did not hear the «1- m tercation. ij&- Mr Cameron was also prepared to gi'e [■ . evidence. Kf/ His Worship said that there was no doubt j strong language had been used, langffl_s I which could not be classed with light.EterJ- j ture]; it was a frivolous matter, but he'con- j sidered that there was six of one, and half-*--'fe dozen of the other. Mr Macready's langus? was not proper, but he believed it was very much provoked by Mr Dempsey, who hadno reason to go Mr Macready. It was most de testable for people to go about the town* 0 earwig people in order to get tenders, and J only discloses what should never be allows to take place. j . The Court ordered both complainant w ? defendant 'to enter into their own bonds« £50 to keep the peace for six months- This was all the business.

THE GALE AT HOWICK.

It was reported yesterday morning that t» cutter Ellen, of this place, was blown f • the rock, and had become, a total wrecM lam happy to say such is not the case,**??*? ease the minds ' of many anxious pvmt :of the present master of the cutter,^ , James Crawford, brother of the late Sffi 'John Crawford, who, it will berememej bered, broke a blood-vesselashort'tinw M while at anchor in Mechanics' Bay,' and dffl j very suddenly, deeply lamented by all*" knew him, leaving a widow and large ww ; whom, I believe, his brother is,f chiefly working ? Ythe. * boat ' <*H for the support of: the widow' ». orphans, and it would be much, too iffia| to be regretted should anything senoj»«K I pen to the cutter Ellen or its master. X f facts of the case are these : The cutter *, i on her passage from the Maraiti to Aucßi | with a load of firewood. The wind«| I very strong from the S.W., she put J 1 { j I dropped her anchor under the :'||?*s| Howick beach. The master and taate^ g shore, and about half-past 8 p.»-| l^j J difficulty) they got on board again, tw^ | blowing very strong from the sioft;^ I half-past ten the wind chopped mgy i round to the N.E., and Mfy^fptll right on to the high TOC^s'.MOM she dragged her anchor, bn..^ 1 dentially it caught in a shelr*,f # I and brought her up within 20 yar7.; Br .v« fj high rocks stern on, the sea brea.jj t3 Jfl her, which swept the cabin of a" 5 | gear ; but strange to tell the d#£a«ffi| pass got on to the rocks with :^Ag)K' injury. The dingy cut her painter' m pis* ffl on shore with the loss only of beiij,-; Of course the two men were w^ffJL M ¥'•■■ position ; they fixed a ci-ors 1?..!-.^ ing and sat there all night. Ihe J"J Wm vessel has received very little i»J ■

TOE ITllffiflG, MAM, WEDNESDAY, EEBMTAUY 111874



T COS GRAVE & CO. HAVE JUST RECEIVED PER SUEZ MAIL: 1 case Self-coloured Gros Grains 1 „ Black 1 „ Best Paris Kid Gloves I ~ Best Assorted Colors. JJATS! HATS! SUMMER HATS AT REDUCED PRICES. IN ORDER TO EFFECT A CLEARANCE RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN have] decided to Sell the Balance of their Summer Stock Children's and Ladies' Straw Hats at COST P RIC E. A Great Variety to select from. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN (LATETR. HOBBS), Wholesale and Retail Drapers, Clothiers, _a JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel,) Upper Queen-siheet, Auckland. TIMBEE FOR SALE, AT MY YAEDS, GOVERNMENT WHARF, ONEHUNGA. JAMES W. WALLER.