SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER—This afternoon, 5.46; to urrow; Morning, 612 SUN SET-Thls evening, 7.8 SUN RISK-To morrow morning, 4.40 MOON'S AGE-Full moon, 13th, 7.24 a.m,

ARRIVALS.

lona, s b, Farquhar, from the North

DEPARTURES.

Aowena, ss, aeiiass, for Tiuranga Wellington, ss, Carey for the South Pretty Jane, s s, for Gisborne and Napier

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

jror ijonaon—uty oi Auckland, amp; and Columbus barque—sarly Vote Newcastle—Star of Germany, ship; Glimpse barque—early For the South—Bawea, ss, 15th instant or San Francisco— Cyphrenes, ss. 19th Instant, English mail H For Kaipara—Wild Duck, ketch, Tuesday

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Mikado, ss, from San Francisco, about Ist January Coronet, schooner, from the Islands, early Cynbrenes, s s, from the South, 18th instant Colima, s s, from San Francisco, early Hero, fom Sydney, about Slat Sappho, HMs, from Wellington * Brodick Castle, ship, froni London Carnatic, ship, from London ; sailed 20th Sept Glenlora, ship, from London ; sailed Frank Pendleton, ship, from Gelfe, Sweden j sailed 13th August Ardvar, ship, from Glasgow, early Ben venue, ship, from London, early Cabarfeidh, barque from Noumea, early Jessica, barque, from New Yo>k ; sailed 2nd Juno Florence, barque, from Pnnedin ; saiied 3rd inst Marathon, barque from New York ; failed October 12 I>lzzie Fox, from Dtinedin ; sailed 3rd inst Kate Bnin, brigantine, from Dnnedin: sailed Nov 24 Dauntless, Hawaiian schooner, from Levuka Peerle«s, schooner, from the Islands, early Au Revoir, schooner, from Sydney Ocean Wave, schooner, from Fiji, early Tision, brig, from the Islands, early

The fine barque Columbus is progressing in her loading for-London She is likely to sail about the end of the present month.

The new time-table of the, Enterprise No 2 and the %? a^=* P fPM-?f! n °? r advertising columns. The useful little ste^ mer Lal i a Eookh is open for •nwrements by ple^ore parties during the Christmas

The Takapu' aa wlll leave the Queen . s t r eet Wharf this evening at eight o'clock on a moon-I'ght excur sion, a. r,and will be engaged for the occasion, and refreshments may bs ha on board. ihe ss Rowena took her departure for Tauranga ims morning, haviDg been detained after her usual "£? °* deP«tut<»in consequence of the bad weather. The ketch Wild Duck is advertised to leave One mu* K»iP"a on Tuesday, the 14tb instant. Tha following are the Pretty Jane's passengers for Blsborne and Napier:—Mrs Barker, Messrs Roberts, N»sh, and O'Neil

Tha cutter Maud, the new vessel built by Messrs Henderson and Sprag?on, for Mr Kelly, is to be launched this afternoon, and as she is in sea-going trim she will sail at once for her maiden trip to T*irua in ballast The cutter ia SO <eet lone, 17 feet 6 inches In the beam, and C feet 4 iiche3 deep. Captain Miegerney takes command. The ceremony of ohris taping the vessel is to be performed by Miss Kelly. The M»ud is a smart useful looking and well built craft, of 32 tons register. She was constructed under the supervision of Mr C. Daldy, j inr. The brig Amy and the barque Moneynick are load ing timber at Wangaroa, The s.s lona arrived this morning from the North with the following passenger*: Messrs Leybourne. J. Stdphenson, Stevens, Mr and Mrs Willltms, Messrs Yon Stunner. Caulier, Harkis, Geo. Finch. O. J. Hutchinson. Mrs and Miss Fargussoa and 3 in the steerage. Cargo: S packages merchandise, 6 bags bones.

The cutter Leo takes a cargo of stores to Russell. The schooner Rover cleared to-day for Gisborne via Mercury Bay with 30,000 ft timber to be shipped at the latter port.

The Ruby is on the point of leaving for "Waugaroa with 2 tons of flour and sundries.

The Fanny Killy and Charybdis ketches are to sail for "Wangaroa at once in ballast.

The schooner Colonist cleared to-day fer Napier and the Coast with 32.000 ft timber and sundries.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

mails will Close as tollows:— For Wang*rei, Russell, Wangaroa. and Mongonui, per lona, on Monday at 4 p m For Australian Colonies, per Coiima, six hours after arrival For Waiwera, Kawau and Matakana, per Minnie Casey, on Tuesday at 10 a m Per Hawea, on "Wednesday. 16th inst, as follow :— For India, China. Mediteranean, ports, and Conti nent of Europe, at 7.20 am For Taranaki, Southern provinces.and Australian Colonies, at 8.20 a m For United Kingdom via Suez and Southamp ton (for letters specially addteased), at 8 20 am For United X lnijdom via Brlndisi, and late letters for Southern Provinces and Melbourne, will be received till 8 35 a m For newspapers at 7 am For Money Orders and. registered letters, the previous evening at 5 p m Per Cyphrenes. on Saturday, 18th inst, as under:— Vox Fiji, Sandwich Islands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies at 8 p m

For che United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 8 p m

For mono-y orders and registered letters, at 5 p m

For newspapers, at Bpm Late letters bearing an extra fee of 6d In addition to the postage, will be received on board by the Mail Agent up to time of sailing.

S. TJ. 8189, Chief Postmaster.

Weston's Wizard Oil and Magic Pixls.—Have cured more wonderful cases of Eheiimatism. Gout, Neuralgia. Aches. Pains, Swellings, Caked Breasts, Scalds, and Salt-Kheum, upon the human frame, than all the pretended remedies have since the world began. Those Great American Medicines art> com peted of vegetable oils, healing gums, roots and herbs ; and act like a charm upon pain ard inflam mation Price: Half-a-crown. Sole Agents: Kemp home Prosser and Co.

NOTICE TO CORRESPONDENTS.

"•Crayfordian." sTour lines are such a capital advertisement, that we would sug gest a consultation with the owner of the gardens to secure the insertion of the verses for a term.

BIRTH.

LEAHY—On December 10, at her residence, Hobson-

street, Mrs. George Leahy of a daughter. COHEN—On December 10, Mrs. Frank Cohen, Have leck, Marlborough, of a daughter.

The Evening Star: WITH WHICH ARE INCORPORATED "The Evening News," "The Morning News," and "The Echo."

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11, 1875.

For the cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do.

We think we may regard criticism as having reached it culminating point. At least we cannot hope to see the last surpassed. The Centralist party have received one other ally, and they require no more. Wi Mahi. Te Bangikaheke Te Maori—for that is his name —has spoken. He aspires to repre sent the European and the aboriginal of the East Coast, and he sees no reason why he too should not expound the principles of constitutional law. Men who " can plough" and otherwise exhibit their fitness for framing constitutions, have spoken, and why not he. His knowledge of con stitutional history and political econ omy is equal, we have no doubt, to theirs, and he has graduated in college halls not a whit inferior to those which have developed their youthful intellects ; and so, great ugly buck nigger though he be, he expounds his princip^s. Among other dicta, he expresses his opinion of the leader of the Opposition. It is thus : " As regards Sir George Grey, he thought he was behind the age." We cannot see, gentle reader, why you smile. Surely Wi Mahi Te-all-the-rest-of-him has a right to have an opinion ; he is a free and indepen dent, end he has seen the class of men who aspire to law-making and Constitution framing. And there really is nothing more grotesque in a noble savage assuming to lead his white brethren in the onward march of political development, and speaking with hauteur respecting the inferior abilities of a statesman, [thaujthere is in the case of illiterate and ignorant whitemen who have picked up the jargon of the lobbies, essaying criticism from the same stand point of self-inflation. The person who has become the subject of Wi Mahi Te what-do-ye-call-him's depre ciatory criticism, is"|generally regarded by the more intelligent portion of the com. munity as just a little too much in advance of the age, and his theories of the confederation and consolidation of the empire,'magnificent in conception as they un questionably are, are, by those who differ from him, considered to be so much before the age, that the present generation is not likely to b e educated up to them no far M to give hope el their rcftlifMtion in ©«c tint. But th« tar

panded intellect of this dark-skinned savage, and of some other savages with lighter com* plexions, soars away beyond the theorising of the Federalist leader, and can afford to look down on him with contempt. We do not know anything more laughable than thi 8 assumption of knowledge on the part of pig headed people, who'are necessarily as inno cent of political economy as they are of Sanscrit, and by the side of them we regard this poor greasy malodorous savage in his blanket as modesty incarnate.

Public feeling being at the present hour bo strong with reference to the relations of the Harbour Board and the unfortunate Graving Dock, the following notice of motion will be read with interest. We find it placed on the notice paper of the Harbour Board for discussion at next meeting, and it bears the name of Mr Buchanan appended. We shall not anticipate that discussion, nor give ex pression to feelings which we know are strongly entertained on this subject, but we venture to say that there will be a very general sense of satisfaction and gratitude to Mr Buchanan for letting in a ray of light into the fog in which the Harbour Board has managed to involve itself. The following is the notice of motion :—

Mr. Buchanan to move, 1. " That Mr. Ewington be instructed to estimate the cost of making the Jarge dock at Oaliope Point, North Shore. 2. That this Board take the necessary steps to have the dock site altered to Caliope Point, and have that portion of the Devonport forseshore inserted in schedule three of the Harbour Board Act, 1874, for the security of debenture holders."

The tea-meetinp in connection with the Whau Wesleyan Church has been postponed till Monday evening.

We are informed that an old settler in the North proceeded this week to Coromandel to recover some gold he buried there upwards of forty years ago. We wish him every suc cess and hope he will recover his hidden treasure. A most filthy outrage was pnrpetrated during last night in the Kyber Pass road. Early this morning the premises of Mr Jones, grocer, were discovered to have been dis figured by several, buckets of slaughter-house filth thrown over its walls, creating a shock ing stench. The act was one of pure malice, and we hope the perpetrators will be dis covered and brought to justice.

The two hours moonlight trip by water will start this evening at 8 o'clock from the wharf, which will afford a pleasant oppor tunity for a water excursion for persons desirous of escaping from the Saturday even ing crowd of Queen-street, The lively drum and fife band under their efficient conductor, Mr J. Smith, will start from the junction fire bell at half-past seven, and play along Queen-street to the wbarf. A choice series of selections and popular ballad tunes have been chosen for the occasion. The object of the trip is solely for the benefit and amusement of the people at con siderable expense, and it is to be hoped that the party will not suffer in pocket thereby. There will be dancing and singing in board, with innocent refreshments, and, should the sky be serene, and the moon shew a brilliant unclouded face, this first trip of the season, will undoubtedly be a great success, and the Takapuna freighted with joyous spirits.

One of the three survivors of the Cospat rick does not seem to have profited by hiß terrible experience. His name will be fam iliar to mnst of our readers. Edward Cotter, a seaman, aged 19, was charger! at Hammer smith with assaulting Police-Constable Davis. The constable said on Saturday night he was on duty in Silver-street, Kensington when he heard a woman screaming in the Macau!ay Arms. He found that the prisoner had been ejected from the house. He told him to go away, but he said he would be locked up. On the way to the station prisoner struck him. The prisonei told the magistrate that he was one of the survivors of the Cospatrick. He made rather free with the money he received, and many persons took advantage of him. He had been another voyage, and Bince he re turned they expected him to do the same. Two persons "pitched" upon him, and he had to defend himself. Sergeant A. Hearn said since the prisoner had returned he had befin surrounded by many persons, who be haved like so many sharks. Persons came from a distance to see him. Prisoner said he would keep away from the country altogether. Mr Bridge—Will you keep sober ? Prisoner—l will, so long as I can. (Laughter.) Mr Bridge ordered him to be discharged.

i The bazaar, in aid of the funds of the Presbyterian Church at the Whau, will be opened on Wednesday next. We learn that great preparations have been made for the bazaar, and it is looked forward to with much interest by the promoters as a pleasurable means of assisting the funds of the church.

The United Men-servants met last evening at the British Hotel, when several new mem bers were initiated. It was announced that a member was sick and it was unanimously agreed, that he should be assisted from the funds, although not entitled until January of next year. The members of this newly organised association are very enthusiastic and persevering in their efforts to place the society on a substantial basis,and their work is creditable to them.

A man in a neighbouring county who wished to write a history of his family, was unable to obtain the 'necessary material; but when he got nominated for Congress the opposition papers furnished him a complete history of the same for six generations back, and didn't charge him a cent. But he says he doesn't believe his great-great-great-grand mother was burned for a witch, and that his great-great-grandfather was banged for steal ing a sheep, as stated in the papers.'

The names of ministers and subjects of discourse at the various churches of the city for to-morrow (Sunday) will be found in the third page of this issue of our journal.

The 23rd of December is definitely fixed by the Auckland Choral Society for the per formance of Handel's " Messiah."

In the Auckland telegraphic correspon dence of the Otago Guardian, 24th November, we find the following :—" It is pretty well proved now that the report circulated that Sir George was invited by the Maori King to visit him and settle all differences between Maoris and Europeans was a political canard." This fairly illustrates the unscrupulous lying that characterises the employe's of almost every Government paper in New Zealand. It is well-known, and has been well-known to all who took any trouble to find out, that the invitation from the King was actual. The details of the affair we gave in our yesterday's issue. There is not a doubt that the attempts to cast discredit on the invitation have emanated from the wretched beings whose hands the leader of the Opposition arrested when they were groping in the public pocket.

The members of the Templar Benefit Society are requested to attend a meeting of special importance on Tuesday evening next, in the Newton congregational school-room.

Mr Upton, of Qaeen-street, has just re ceived editions of the British poets from Messrs Nelson, of London, which are special novelties in their way, and admirably suited for Christmas presents. The covers are of beautifully polished wood, elegantly lettered and adorned with ferns and wild flowers •imiUr t© thone of New Zealand.,

Those connected with the meat trade who opposed the removal of the slaughterhouse to any great distance from Auckland, on the grounds of cost and inconvenience, will be interested to know that Messrs Fisher and Co. have tipped over the trains and availed themselves of the use of the old medinm of conveyance known as "carting," to bring their meat to'town from St. Ann's Bridge. This change of carriage has been brought about by the fact of the railway authorities continuing to raise their charges, and Messrs Fisher and Co. refusing to submit to any higher rates, and this firm show their inde pendency of the Auckland and Drury Rail way ond of all connected with ifc by carting their own meat.

The race known as the '.'Trial Fours," of the Auckland Rowing Club, has been ar ranged to come off next Thursday. Three crews have entered, as follows :—Colonist: J. Dacre, W. Caverhill, Debeney, L. Yon Tempsky. Manukau Maid : T. Henderson, junr., R. M. Clark, W. Ratcliffe, F. Moss. Wonder : W. Jones, R. E. Isaaos, D. Tonks, A. Yates. The hour for the start will be notified before the day.

An entertainment to raise funds for the ex tension of the school-room at Bombay was held on Wednesday evening last. Notwith standing the inclement weather the large room was well filled by a respectable and appreciative audience. Several gentlemen from Auckland kindly assisted. Miss Wright opened the proceedings by a well executed selection of music, and was followed by Mr Forde, the teacher of the school, who aa Mr Bunkum, addressing the electors of Franklyn, produced roars of laughter. Mr Proude was very successful in rendering a comic song. Mr Doran, as the "Water Melon Man," convulsed the house, and was compelled to appear again. A recitation, "Pastor McKnock's address," by Mr Allison was ex tremely well received, creating much merri ment. The same gentleman, later in the evening, recited "Beautiful Snow." This was one of thy best pieces of the evening, being rendered with much pathos, and with good effect. Mr Williams as the " Unfortu nate Man" was vociferously encored, and responded with another laughable song. The burlesque of the "Corsair" was well|per formed, and our local amateurs are deserving of great praise Two gentlemen sang a song in a very creditable manner. But the piece of the evening was the finishing farce " Four o'clock Train." by Messrs Doran, Alison, and Williams. This piece fairly took the house by storm, and sent every one home highly gratified. This is certainly the most pleas ing entertainment by far which has been held here, for which we have, in a great measure, to thank our Auckland friends. Too much praise cannot be given to Mr Forde for the continuous exertions he put forward in maintaining and assisting the school. We are quite certain a better conducted school, and more neatly decorated scbool-room is not to be found in the province. — Correspon dent.

It is related that the Postmaster of Monti cello, Ga., recently performed the feat of reading a letter without hearing its contents. An old woman, who had never been to school, got a letter one day, and asked the Postmas ter to read it to her. She did not want him to hear it. So she took a wad of cotton out of her pocket aud stuffed his ears with it. She then had him read the letter in a low voice, and was perfectly satisfied that the reader did not hear a word of it.

Further particulars of the floods yesterday shew the damage to have been considerable. From our Alexandra telegram it will be sfien that the Waipa bridge which was built by the settlers has been washed away ; and also two stores built on the river bank. The bridge at Cambridge was also carried away. The damage to the railway is not likely to be very costly and will at once be repaired. Meanwhile passenger traffic has been main tained according to time table in the manner described in our laßt issue, by three trains between the points of interruption. The weather having cleared up, we do not antici pate any further mischief, and, no doubt, the swollen rivers and creeks will fall rapidly.

We have been requested to calif attention to an advertisement elsewhere notifying that the Eev B. H. McCray has telegraphed to say he cannot arrive in town in time to preach at Wellesley-street Church to-morrow.

The Saturday Night's Entertainment Com mittee have an unusually good programme prepared for this evening. Messrs Ryan, Redfern, Marter, Geddes, Gatland, A. Smith, Jones, Miss Coleman, Homer, and Master McLeod are to assist in rendering this truly popular entertainment attractive to-night. We also observe by advertisement elsewhere that the entertainment on the 27th in the Lome-street Hall, is likely to be a success, if the names on the programme can be a guarantee of sncceßS. The object the Committee have in view is to procure music and other requisites for the Saturday night entertainment, bo as if possible to ren der them a permanent institution in this city.

Mr F. H. Leijieaon, the father of colonial jewellery, announces that he has the largest stock of watches, chains, musical boxes, plate, &c,, in the colony, and intends to offer them at prices that will bring jewellery within the reach of everyone. With the holiday season approaching such an announcment will be received, to use the familiar penny-a-lining phrase, " with vociferous applause."

The latest in note paper and envelopes is unique. The form is a continental bat in minature, or, to be more explicit and lucid, an old-faßhioned New England bun. The paper is heavy and, like Joseph's coat, of many colours. You have your monogram in the left-hand corner, and your autograph vis-a-vis. You put it in the envelope of tbe same form and then sit down and wonder where the place is for the postage stamp !

Floods in Waikato.

Bridges and Stores Carried Away.

ALEXANDRA.

(From our own Correspondent.) This day.

The Waipa bridge and Messrs Duffers and Hill's stores on the beach were carried away. The Steam Navigation Company's store is still standing, the weight of coal keeping it down. The river is still rising, The Manga piko bridge is 6 feet under water.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before G. M. Mitford and J. M. Dargaville, Esquires, Justices of the Peace.)

IN COURT. Three characters, Bill, Tom, and Pat, One tali, one short, the other fat, Got drunk last night. Patrick Ready, Thomas Perryman, and William Thompson pleaded guilty to being drunk last night and were fined ss. each and coats. BREACH OF HAItBOTJR REGULATIONS. Augustus Millar appeared in answer to a summons charging him with a breach of the Harbour Regulations by heating tar on board the schooner Kate McGregor, at Auck land, on the 6th inst. Mr. J. B. Russell appeared for the prose cution and stated that there was an idea abroad that the regulations were made by the Harbour Board of the port of Auckland, instead of which they were made at Wel lington and were for the whole of the colony. Defendant pleaded guilty. The Bench wished for some explanation of the offence. Sergeant Martin said that on the night of the 6th instant, the defendant heated a tin of tar for the purpose of getting some of it out when it ran over and caught fire, and had it not been for prompt exertions on the part of defendant and those who witnessed it, the vessel would certainly have got on fire, And the rmnlt would h*v« been very norious, '

HfDefeudant expressed his regret; it was quite accidental. The Bench remarked upon the case, and, under the circumstances, imposed the lowest fine, namely, £5 and costs. This was all the business.

ENGLISH TELEGRAMS.

London, October 29.

The Brindisi mails have been delivered.

A collision has occurred between the Somerset, hound for Sydney, and the Cutty Sark. The latter vessel was compelled to return to dock.

AUSTRALIAN TELEGRAMS.

STABBING OF A WIFE AND SOLICITOR

BY A HUSBAND

Melbourne, November 30. In the Assembly a Supply Bill for £380,000 has been introduced. The debate was very personal. The Opposition threatens delay of business unless a dissolution is granted. Mr Mason, M.L.A., has brought an action for libel against the Age newspaper. Five French Communists were found in a destitute condidion on the coast of Queens land, having been twelve days at sea. Brisbane, November 29 bh. A man named Patrick McMahon stab bed his wife and a solicitor named Boay. The former is not expected to live. McMahon stated he intended to murder both for con sulting together.

CUSTOMS RECEIPTS.

Totals for week ending Saturday, 11th inst— £ a.a. Duties 3496 12 8 Lighthouse dues 20 16 10 Merchant ship fees 12 3 6 .Arms fees 5 2 0 Other receipts 12 11 0 Total £3556 6 0 Total* for Saturday, 11th— £ B. d. Duties 27113 8 Lighthouse dues 1/2 6 Merchant ship fees 17 0 Total £273 13 2

THE NEWTON ADDRESS.

(To the Editor of the Evknixg Stab.) Sir,—l should have considered it beneath me to have noticed the letter of John L. Duke, K.H.8., etc., etc., in yesterday's Cross, his character being so well known as a busy, mischief-making individual, who takes a delight in going round talking about his neighbours, and who knows everybody's business better than his own, and has figured in the Police Court some time ago for assault ing an old woman. His interest on behalf of the ratepayers will be best Been by the vari ous motions made by him at the Board meetings, to wit —the expenditure of over £70 to do a certain piece of work in front of his own door, in order that his allotment might be made level at the expense of the ratepayers for his sole benefit. And because I. as well as other members of the Board, objected to spend the rates for this individ ual's benefit, he tries to show his teeth, as well as disturb the harmony of the Board meetings. As for asking him for money towards the address, I might as well try to pluck wool off a goat, for I gave him a pound four months ago to pay for an advertisement in your paper, and it was only this week I received the change, though I asked him for it times without number. Had it not been the ratepayers' money I should have made him a present of it long ago. As for him being returned a member of the Board three times, the means he used had better be left hidden in the past. His ex cuse for not signing the address was that Mr Swan son would sell us like a bullock in Smith field, as he (Mr Swanson) would retire in favor of Mr Sheehan at the last moment. I believe that his (Duke's) object was to bring out an opposition candidate in order that be might have an opportunity of going round with a requisition to make another £7 10s oat of the electors, tbe same as he did when he got up tbe ruse of the district being annexed to the city. As for the legality of the meeting to which he alludes I think that has been already answered in my previous letter. I must apologise for trespassing so far on your valuable space but this will, so far as I am concerned, end the controversy. —Yours, etc., Thomas Baknes, Chairman. [This letter must close the correspondence. We would not insult the intelligence of the Newton electors by supposing that they do not see through the very "thin " ruse attemp ted by Mr Duke in connection with Mr Swan son's address and the false alarm about an intention to fasten Mr Sheehan on the constituency. Duke worked the petition against the bogus attempt at annexation to the city very well, but that dodge is about played out and he will do well to stick to his pills and chickweed. lhat sort of thing may suit nervous old ladies but to ask the .Newton electors to swallow his political prescriptions is coming it rather too strong. —Ed. E. B.]

CITY STREETS.

(To the Editor of the Evening Stak.) Sir, —Your correspondent " Ratepayer " is stating au error when he says that only £3,787 was expended on the streets of the city during the past year. On looking carefully over the statement of accounts, I find expended on streets £3,932 18s Bd. This, I learn, does not include amounts for asphalt work done and not yet paid for, and a further sum for asphalt footpaths, under the head of Endow ment Expenditure, of £278 19a sd; also, under the head Expenditure of Loan, viz.: Culvert, Mechanics' Bay, £198 10s 6d; Drainage, Qusen and Wakefield-streets, £1,230 12s; do Shortland-street, £395; do Napier-street, £24 17s 2d ; also, formation of Hepburn and Wynyard-streets, £865, in all making a total of £6,925 17s Id ex pended on streets during the past year. I am, etc., Facts.

MINING MONOPOLY AT THE THAMES.

(To the Editor of the Evening Star),

Sir,—l have seen In your Star a letter on the cause of the present depression on the Tham«s. WJth the writer I fully concur that our mines are not worked out, nor likely to be for a very long while to come, but are simply locked up. You, sir, who have always stood forward as the champion of right against might, it is for you to find the key to open them. I will point out to you the cause why there has not been more open agitation on this question on which our present and future welfare depends. Almosc all the miners here are depending on companies for tho means of subsistence, and it is needless for me to say that if they protested agiinst these companies monopolising those large areas, that they would have no chance of being employed by them, consequently their voices are only heard in murmurs. This is especially the case with these who have wives and lar^e families and cannot leave the pJace, many of whom are ia a state of destitution. I would suggest that companies be forced to fully man all thtir ground, failing which, that the Government re-enter or compel the compan ies to throw off whichever portion they are unwilangor unable to work. If this wexe done, I feel satisfied that hundreds who are now out of employment would find remuneration for their labour. It is a well known fact that small parties of men can make poor ground, that is worthless to companies, pay and especially such ground as we have on the Thames v here there are so many small leaders or quartz veins These veins, with companies, are either left in the slopes or are taken out mixed with so much mullock that they do not pay companies as a rule, whereas they pay small parties of men because they pick all the mulloc* out of the quartz, by doing so they save in cart»ge and crushing. While I point in the direction of these greedy mono lo is ng companies as being the chief cause of our present depression yet there are other causes, for instance, the back c mntry ought to have been opened by good roads lone aeo *LVI?V a?«L eyei,Wue' th. at ma great g°ld-producin X ttHtrict like this we have net a road that runs back into the golden belt of country a mile. The Tair ua case his created a feeling of uneasiness in min ing circles that will for some time keep money from beng spent in mining investments. It is in every body's mouth here. Who will risk money if the law Is powerless in such glaring caaes as that of the Tairua ? Sir, I hold that while it is the duty of the law and press to guard the rights of the poor and dis tressed against the greedy monopoly of the unscrupu lous; it ii also their duty to guard the unwary who are possessed of money against the mining sharper and false reporter who may succeed through misre presentation in inducing the public to have faith in this or that mine in which they •»• tateraitol.- i

TELEGRAPHIC.

WHANGAREI.

(From our own Correspondent.) This day. Cricket Match.

The Kawakawa cricket team had to return yesterday owing to the rivers being up. It is proposed to organise a team from the Bay of Islands, Mangonui, Marsden, and Eodney to play Auckland during Christmas holidays.

LATEST SOUTHERN TELEGRAMS.

NAPIER.

(From our own correspondent.) This day. Narrow Escape of the Cyphrenes-

The Daily Telegraph states that the mail steamer Cyphrenes had a narrow escape of running ashore yesterday morning at day light, when steering straight for the light house, situated at the gaol, near the Bluff. Fortunately the Kangitira hove in sight in time to assist. The Cypbrenes followed her round the Bluff. The authorities should at once see the lighthouse removed to the proper site before any casualty ensues. The site on which it is erected was chosen by General Government agents, against the ex pressed opinions given by captains of vessels who visit the port. Sir Donald McLean purposes addressing his constituents next week. The Cat Did It? The residence of Mr Csuley, accountant, Bank of New Zealand at Napier was totally consumed by fire at two this morniDg, it appeirs the cat upset a bottle of turpentine on some dried mint, and Mrs Cauley coming into the room with alighted candle the spirits ignited. The buildiug and contents were insured with the National for four hundred pounds.

PORT CHALMERS.

(From our own Correspondent.) This day. Voyage of the Celestial Queen. The Celestial Queen, ship, arrived from London late last night after a passage of 104 days. She had poor trades north and south of the line, and lost time in keeping clear of the Brazil Coast; ran longitude down from 38 to 42, passing north of the ice field ; no ice was sighted. She encountered heavy westerly gales in the Southern ocean, and carried away chain plates, maintopmast backstays, and one main chain plate ; had to strike topgallantmast to ease the strain, and ran from 40 degrees east without one. She brings 1100 tons of cargo, half for Nelson. The brigantine Trelevan Family sailed for Auckland on Thursday night.

It is wretched rainy weather, unseason able, and detrimental to garden crops and stock.

WELLINGTON.

(From our own Correspondent.) This day.

The Bain Storm

The rain appears to be over, but it is blowing a regular Bneezer. The Halcione to-day very nearly made a mesa of it. She started from her moorings and drove down upon a hulk, and just grazed her before she was brought up by her anchor. All the grass and hay in the Hutt valley is so covered with mud and sand as to be useless. There were several slips on the Hutt road and Rimutaka, but none serious. Peter Lang estimates his loss on potatoes and strawberries alone at £200. There has been about sixty hours' rain altogether. Sale of Brogden's Sawmill- Messrs Brogden and Sons have sold their sawmill at Palmerston north to the Ranga tiane natives at something over £3000. The Post article on Mr Hutchison is thought to be too severe altogether.

WELLINGTON.

(Per Press Telegram Agency.) Friday.

New Zealand Cable

The Eastern Extension Company have left to Sir J. Vogel and Dr Hector the selection of the place where the cable from Australia is to be landed, and they have fixed upon Wakapuaka, near Pergin's Island, in Blind Bay. Only about six miles of land line will be required to join with the existing wires.

CHRISTCHURCH.

(fer .frees Telegram Agency.) Friday.

Mr. Reeves' Address

Mr Reeves addressed the electors of Selwyn last night. He/ spoke in favour of a modification of the present Pro vincial form of Government. He said the battle ground on which the question of Local Government would be fought out next session was Centralisation against De-centralisation. He would always be found on the side of the latter. He sup ported a free State and secular education, and to be compulsory; so far as practicable, the funds to be provided out of the consoli dated revenue of the colony. He advocated the assessment of runs, and then offering them to existing holders at the increased price. He was in favour of triennial Parlia ments and a property tax, when further taxation became necessary. He would oppose any system of nominated Boards. He had an inclination towards an elective Upper House for a comparatively long term. A motion pledging the meeting to support Mr. Beeves was carried by a large majority. Cheers were given for Sir Julius Vogel, Sir Oeorge Grey, and Mr. Beeves. There is not likely to be any opposition to Mr. Beeves.

DUNEDIN.

(Per Press Telegram Agency.) Friday.

Two more cases of scarlet fever are reported to-day in-a locality where it will be difficult to isolate the houses, six of them being divided by three wooden partitions. The Board of Health ha 3 resolved that an in spection be made of Melbourne vessels. A fever hospital is also to be built. Sir John Richardson.

Sir John Richardson has given a lengthy reply to the requisition ask ing him to stand for Dunedin city. He states that unexpected constitutional changes of a fundamental character are always to be deprecated, as they deprive the people of a right which is at once their duty and privilege to exercise. He concluded by stating that, if there is one consolation amid the uncertainties and complications of the present crisis, he can find it in the fact that the people themselves will have to decide the question,.and through the instrumentality of the ballot-box, free and uninfluenced. After thanking them for the compliment paid, he declined the proferred honour.

BLUFF.

(Per Press Telegram Agency.) This day.

, Salvage Claim Against the Taixoa-

Captain Fraser, of the steamer Express has sent in a claim for salvage of the Tairoa, claiming a third value of the ship, as he was* asked to tow her into port.

WAIWERA (Hot Springs).

[PER PIGEON EXPRESS.]

Saturday, 9 a.m. There is a great exodus of visitors from the Springs.—Lovely weather.—The first num ber of the Wairoa Gazette was issued to-day. The opening article comments on the bold ness of the venture, and says it was not started with any sordid motives, or with a

view to self-aggrandisement. Imi editoy *■■ declines to enunciate his principlra^f or simple reason that he does hot jnoisess any llis self-delegated mission is^/g'sdminigtej mental pabulum to a mind d? iged, and to recommend the virtues of mim-al waters.--, Vogel is expected here immediately after arrival.—Captain Lewis is quite recovered from the effects of gout. He leaves for town on Monday.—A wonderfnl cure has been effected in a fortnight in the case of a miner, named Peter Martin, from Thames. On arrival bad to be conveyed to the batha in a cart. His health is better than ever.— ■ Two vesfe'.«l« are in the offing bound north— A vessel is Reading for the Springy loaded with provision?.

POTTERS' WORK.

It has been our pleasure to see some articles of pottery manufactured by Mr James tf right from clayß found everywhere in the proViDte of Auckland. We say everywhere, because the various districts from which the clays were taken are so remote and independent the one from the other as to lead to the con viction that such articles may be produced indefinitely, and form a valuable industry in any part of the province. From Wangaref Tamaki, Port Albert, Paparoa,and different parts of Waikato, the clays were takes which formed the specimens in question, and really for soundness and evenness in composition and perfection in glazing, scarcely anything further could be desired. But among all, the most striking success appears in a little statue of terra cotta, the minuteness and accuracy of the outline of which are remarkable in the extreme, and we cannot but deplore the absence of that public spirit and enterprise in ■ our monicd men that can leave such a poi sible industry and probable source of wealth to go a-begging. From the speci mens which we have seen in the bauds of Mr. Wright we do not hesitate to say that oar homes can be furnished with every con venience and nearly every elegancy in this particular line of household requirement without importing a single article. And through sighing over the absence of public spirit will' not evoke it, Deither slacken the purse-s! rings that confine the misarable bawbees that give wings to indnstry, we cannot help lamenting that wealth and enterprise are not concomitant here as they so often are elsewhere. We believe Mr. Wright intends essaying to float a company and we ask those, \i ho are disposed to enter, tain a feasible project of industrial enterprise to just inspect the specimens in his bands. They certainly exhibit a limitless mine of latent wealth beneath the surface of our toil, and add to the hopes of what our rich but undeveloped province may yet attain. As for Mr Wright himself, if he was not actually born in a pottery works and fed on clay, he has been at the business since early boyhood, and in the famous works of John Dimmock and Co., of the Hanley Staffordshire Potter ies, required that theoretical and practical knowledge of the manipulation of clays which will enable him to produce every kind of pottery in perfection. To this enterprise w» cordially wish the most complete success, for it will be success not simply in. reward of personal enterprise, but one of advantage to the whole people.

AMUSEMENTS AND MEETINGS.

Moks. O'Rim, and Mr Towi> met with • pleattnt reception last evening is th .*■ Choral Hall, Onehtfnit*, and attracted a considerable audience. n his evening the performances will be repeated in the City flail for the last time in Auckland. A large number of children and young rewons attended the matinee this afternoon, and were very gratified with the enter tainment. :

On Tuesday evening next, the Hobsoo Minstrels will give a grand variety entertainment in the: Catholic Institute. "Wellington-street. In glancirg at the programme, we feel sure that a good, satisfactory, and ample evening's amusement will be provided for tbose fortunate persons who may be In attendsrce. The first purt promises a pianoforte duett by the Misses Hayles, Irish comicalities by Mr W. 8eto&, * ballad by Mr Walker, & song and dance, "Khe'i only Seventeen," by Mr D. Bertie a ballad "Leaf by Leaf " by a young lady, Miss Hood, and » comic sorgbyMrW. S*ton ; the flrstpart concluding with a negro sketch "Insult and Apoloey," the character* bei< g represented by Messrs. Bertie and Rice. After a short interval, the Misses Bayles will open the second part with a pianoforte duett in " D," and Mr W, Seton will give a I'-ntch song and dance" " Love Amorg Big Noses," followed by Mr T. B. Futtic'a, ballad, and Mr Fred E'ce in a new song and dwsce "Chequered Polonaise." after which Mr will give another of his favourite ballads. andMrW. Seton an Irish, comic song; the entertainment con cludicg wilh a new negro farce " Obeying Orders," by Messrs, Bertie, Eice, and Setrn, in which the two first-named vourg gentlemen will introduce a double Bong and dance " I Really Shall Expire." After this excellent programme, tbo hall will be cleared for dancing, when those. desirous may "trip it on the light fan! astic " to their hearts content We are more with such an attractive programme,-the minstrels cannot fail in securing a crowded house.

PRINCE OF WALES THEATRE.

Shakespeare's famous comedy of the "Taming ef the Shrew," was produced at the Prince of Wales Theatre last night, and was successful both in draw ing and giving pleasure to a large audience. The original length of the play was much reduced, Irat the principal points of the plot were preserved. Miss Carry George tortured her good humoured face tote that of Katberine the Shrew, with a result which wai highly complimentary to that lady's power of ever coming great obstacles. In her acting she was forcible and at the same time natural, and only those who know the affability of the actress would have given her credit for the labour she was at to represent h»r self a scold. Mr Lawrence was capital as Petrachio, and followed out Shakespeare's rather clumsy recipe tot curing a scolding wife with extreme fidelity. The oiher players proved equal to their several parts. Mr Collier was very good in Biondello, and Mr Fam Poole found a congenial role in Grumio. "Little Don Giovanni" followed! the comedy. In this Mill Jeanie £>ye displayed her piquancy of style and generally excellent acitng and singing to great advan tage. The audience were in rapture* with her, and gave her vehement applause, e*pecl»lly for the song " Thy Voice is Near," and for a Highland dance. Mi«s Patty Holt as Donna nna, Aand Mrs 0. Searle as Elvira, were both good, displaying some commend able originality in the treatment of their chMctett. The same burlesque, with the " Colleen Bawn" MW opening piece, will be produced to-night.

Fifty Beautiful Designs to ChooSe From. • *

A LARGE SHIPMENT OP CARPETS JUST UN PACKED, and now added to the very exten sive stock on view at the City Hall at pricefl to suit both rich and poor. Tapestry and Bruß sell, from 2a 9d to 7s; very handsome hearth rugs to match. Curtains of every description from 3s lid to 555. Extra Good Value in Sheetings and Quilts just to hand. Holloway' and Garlick now supply all kinds of Bedding, Mattresses, Palliasses, and Pillows ; good Feather Pillows at 8s 6d. Carpets laid by » skilled hand free of charge. Job Lino m Passage Floor Cloth (4s 6d quality, slightly damaged) at 2s 6d to 3s. Floor Cloths fromi 2to 24feet wide cut and laid down. Pay* visit to Holloway and Garlick's Furnishing, Room, City Hall, and see the cheapest goodi in town.

mm vnaxtini JSrAfe, satoirday, December n. im



HHHIBTLE HOTEL P. DAUBY, WHOLESALE AND RirrAJT . WINW AND SPIRIT STORE QUEEN-STREET AUCKLAND, Begs leave to return many thanks to the public, for their liberal support accorded him for many yeast past. Having erected splendid' Premises on the site o the old House which was destroyed by fire, he is now prepared to execute all orders entrusted to him from town or country, with the CHOICEST SELECTION OP WINES AND SPIRITS, Comprising— Sandiman's Four Diamond Old Fort Wine Duff, Gordon's Bherry Champagne—Cliquot's Champagne—Perrier, Jouet's Champagne—Moselle, pints and quarts Claret*-Chateau, Larose Claret—Lafitte Claret—Leoville Claret—Bt Julian's Keal Old Jamaica Bum Henneisy's Three Star Brandy And othei choice bianda. ASSORTED CASES MAHE UP TO OBDEB DIFFERENT BRANDS. BASS'S ENGLISH ALE ON DRAUGHT. Liberal] Al owances made to wholesale purchasers. TERMS : SI RICTLY CASH. Spirits Overproof, th same as from bonded Store, sold in any quantity. JTOTIOE. JTOTIOE. JUST TO HAND— A Large Parcel of Double-width . "Waterproof Tweed, Melton Cloth, Blue Diagonal, Ac, specially adapted for Boys' Clothing, Ladies' wear, &c, * Bought at Auction at con f Biderably less .than English Invoice Price, and to be sold very cheap. Also,. Lawn Handkerchiefs from 3s 9d per dozen—l2o dozen; Linen Cambrio Handkerchiefs, from 5s 6d per doz. Upwards of 60 dozen Men's Cotfcri Shirts, Fancy Jean, Napier, the new Flax Shirt, etc. Abtshtnian Cord Trousers. Men's Tweed Waistcoats, and a num ber of other Special Lines at much below usual price. INSPECIION INVITED. . BUS]HBROOK & BEIDOMAN, [Late B. Hobbs], JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel, Upper Queen-street, Auckland •yOU CAN BUY CHEAP CLOTHING, and A GOOD FIT, AT THE jqSS- CITY HALL, "til •' Silk Dust Coats 12/6 • Boys' Holland Tunic Suits, 6/11 Boys' Knickerbocker do, from 12/6 Men's Tweed Suits, 35/ Boys'and Youths' Tweed Suites, 25/ Men's Colonial Tweed Trousers and Veßts, 22/6 Eegatta Shirts, 2/11 Felt and Straw Hats, from 1/. HOLLOWAY & GARLICK Can Sell You the Cheapest Dress in Auckland. Plain Lustres, at /6% Special Line- Good Grey Lustre, 30 inches wide, fllXl worth « All-wool Carmalite. 19% Immense Variety of Prints, from $% Striped and Fancy Brilliants, from 1%% White Tucked and Coloured Skirts, from 3/11 The "City Hall" is now Noted for its Cheap Millinery, of which there is a Large Assortment r On View! W BUT TOUR SUMMER HATS tbom HOLLO WAJY & GAELIC X CITZ HALL,



jgPHING D p"™ G° ODS> AN IMMENSE VARIETY OS1 NEW DRESS GOODS, Comprising— Black and Coloured Silks Japanese Silks PJain and Fancy Homespun Serges Balernos, Washing Satteens and Piques Spring Tussores, Lawns and Brilliants Prints, Swiss Muslins and Cambrics Costumes in great variety Grenadines in Plain, Fancy, and Stripes, very cheap, &c, &c, &c A LARGE STOCK OF FANCY GOODS. Comprising all the Novelties of the Season, 100 DOZEN PAIRS OF KID GLOVES, SLIGHTLY SOILED, OKXY Is. 3D. An Inspection Invited. A. LINABURY & CO., 224 and 226, Queen-street. J COSGRA YE & CO. will hold their Annual Sale previous to the Christmas Holidays, com mencing THIS DAY, ( Wednesday), theSt7i December, and ivill continue until the end of the year. The entire stock will he offered at Cost Price.



mo THE ELECTORS AND NGN-! ELEGTOKS OF THE CITY EAST, £NP TH> PROVINCE OF AUCKLAND. . (] ■ ~ Gentlemen,—l take the earliest opportunity *° Inform you that I am a Candidate for your ■P«J>~< favours. .;' ■ I find that I have not sufficient room in my present Establishment to show my Fnmiture, Bedding. *ci therefore, after careful consideration, I have **■' those more Central Premises recently oCC^Pf6^'.^;v,' Meisrs Cranwell and Co., at the bottom of ahbftland street, where I intend to carry on. the burinesa rf- Cabinet-making, TTpholsterißgietc; and having h« 35 years' practical experience, I shall be able to sapplr you with good and sound Furniture, at the very owest possible pi ices consistent to Quality. Furniture, Mattrasses, and Bec^^fcf every d<i orlption made to order, and guara^^to giw e'*iy satisfaction. MattrsMeire-made/DinmgandfewjgMfAr room Furniture Re-covered and thorongnv * Vfttod ■ .... „ ■tfcaiw N.B.—The burinees of China. Glas», »a *2j. „> ware, and Kitchen requisites, &c... will I as usual in the Old, JEstablUbment by Zl^? w^ 1 where every order will receive the WT "— attention.