SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER—This afternoon,, 3.33; to-morrow! morning, 4.14 Jr SUN SET—This evening, 7.C SUN RJSK—To morrow morning, 4.39 MOON'S AGIS—FuII moon, 18th, 7.24 a,nj,

ARRIVALS.

Fanny Kelly, ketch, from Wangaroa Kowona, as, Sellare, from Tauranga

Btar of the South, s s. for Levuka Lady Dos, schooner, for Timaru

DEPARTURES.

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Mikado, s s, from San Francisco, about Ist January Coronet, schooner, from the Islands; early Cyphrenes, s s, from the South, 18th instant Colima, s s, irom San Francisco, early Hero, foro. Sydney, about 31st Sappho, HMs, from Wellington Brodick Castle, ship, from London Carnatic, ship, from London ; sailed 20th Sept Glenlora, ship, from London ; sailed Frank Pendleton, ship, from Golfe, Sweden; sailed 13th August Ardvar, ship, from Glasgow, early leavenue, ship, from London, early Cabarfeidh, barque, from Noumea, early Jesaica, barque, from New York ; sailed 2nd June Florence, barque, from Dunedin ; saiied 3rd inst Marathon, barque, from New York ; failed October 12 Lizzie Fox, from Dunedin; sailed 3rd inst Kate Enin, brlgantlne, from Dunedin: sailed Nov 24 Dauntless, Hawaiian schooner, from Levuka Belle Brandon, schooner, from Penrbyrn Island, early .Peerless, schooner; from the Islands, early Au Revoir, schooner, from Sydney Ocean Wave, schooner, from Fiji, early

EXPORTS.

Per "Pretty Jane for Gisborne and Napier ; 1 horse hoe, 4 packages hardware, 1 cask ironmongery. 2 bundles scythes, 1 cask, 1 case, 12 kegs nails, 4 pack ages wash boards, 2 dozen hay rakes, 8 grindstones, cart axles, 3 dozen scythe handles, 21 sash weights, 4 boxes olothes pegs, 4 nests buckets, 1. nest tubs, 5 ■coils rope, 12 tins paint, 2 packages sieves, 1 cask zinc, S colonial ovens, 6 dozen shovels. 27 c ozan reap hooks 2 cases hardware, 1 mowing machine, 1 case fittings, T and S Morrin

Per Star of the South for Fiji; 4 cases axes, 1 case hatchets. 1 case ironmongery. "S and S Morrin Per Star of the South for Fiji: 3 cases tobacco, 12 do sardines, 100 bags sugar, 25 cases jams, 1 bale flannel, 1 case soft goods, E and H Isaacs

Per Star of the South for Levuka : 100 mats sugar, 25 cases jam, 15 half-chests tea, 12 cases swrdines, 2 boxes tobacco, 1 case do, 1 qr.-cask brandy, 1 do rum, 2 cases sundries. 4 cases axes 1 parcel, 1 wood pump, 690 sacks, 2 cases acid, 30 boxes soap,- 5 hogsheads ale, 25 kegs beef, 50 bullocks, 150 sheep, 1 case paper bags. 2 barrels ale, 150 tons coal.—A.S.P. Co, agents Per Pretty Jane : 1 package saddlery, 1 package harness, 1 package collars, J. Wiseman. Per Ooralie : 2 pack saddles, J. Wiseman

BThe barque Florence, which may be expected every day from Dunedin, is to be laid on for New "Jerk after discharging her Southern cargo. Messrs H. D. Bolpb and Co. will load her with kauri gum.

The ketch Fanny Kelly arrived this morning from Wangaroa with a cargo of timber The A.S.P. Co's Btar of the South left this afternoon for the Tamaki, where she will take in a number of cattle and sheec, and early to-morrow morning leave for Levuka. She takes about 150 tons of coal and a general cargo. Passengers : Saloon, Mr D. Heskith ; Steerage, Mr Maitland. ■

The ss Pietty Jane is to leave for Gisborne to morrow at noon.

Messrs Henderson and Spraggon will launch a fine schooner to-morrow at half-past three o'clock, fhe has been bnilt for Mr Kelly, of Waikawau sawmills. Her name is to be Maud. She seems a smart vessel, of excellent sailing qualities to all appearance. This firm's name is aiways a guarantee for first-class vessels. , fiThe brig Fanny Fothergill and the brigantine Augusta cleared out in ballast to-day, both for the Thames.

t' The .Rowena arrived lastnight from Taurang a with cargo and passengers. '

COMMERCIAL.

Messrs Cochrane and Son sold to-day at their Tort- Btreet Land Mart, the valuable residence of Mr E. Meyers, in Symonds street, for the sum of £92.

The sewing machine sale by Messrs Cochrane was well attended considering the weather, and the follow ing were sold—2 Howe's B. at £5 17s 6d each; 1 do, £6 2s 6d; 1 Simpson, £2 15s; 1 Weed, £2 103; 1 hand sewing machine, £115s; 1 Britannia, .£5 103; 1 Singer, £2 155; 1 Little Wanzer, £5 10s.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as follows :— For Thames to-morrow at 5.30 p m For Coromandel on Friday at 10.30 a m For Whitianga, Tairua, Opotiki, and Napier, via Tauranga, per Bowena, on Friday at 4pm For Mahurangi, Matakana, Mangawai, Waipu, etc per Minnie Casey, Saturday at 10 am For Taranaki, Southern provinces, and Australian Colonies, per Wellington on Saturday at 10.45 am For money orders, registered letters and news papers at 10 a m Late letters for Southern provinces and Mel bourne will be received till 11 a m Per Hawea, on Wednesday, 15th 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 addiessed), at 8.20 am For United Kingdom via Brindisi, and late letters for Southern Provinces and Melbourne, will be received till 8 35 a m

For newspapers at 7 a m For Money Orders and [registered letters, the previous evening at 6 p m Per Cyphrenes, on Saturday, 18th inst, as under:— For 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 the United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 8 p m For money 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 bo received on board by the Mail Agent up to time of sailing.

S. B. BISS, Chief Poßtmaster.

Weston's Wizard Oil and Magic Pills.—Have cured more wonderful cases of Rheumatism, Gout, Neuralgia, Aches, Pains, Swellings, Caked Breasts, Scalds, and Salt-Rheum, upon the humaD frame, than all the pretended remedies have since the world began. These Great American Medicines are. com posed of vegetable oils, healing gums, roots and herbs; and act like a charm upon pain and inflam mation Price: Half-a-crown. Sole Agents: Kemp home Prosser and Co. Causes for Confidence.—ln these days cf humbug and imposture the public are naturally distrustful of assertion unaccompanied by proof. This is particularly the case iv regard to advertised remedies, many of which are devoid of the slightest merit. But a medicinal stimulant, professionally en dorsed and used for twenty-live years as a curaiive of debility, nervous disorders, kidney and bladder ail ments, dyspepsia and rheumatism, deserves ana re ceives public confidence. Witness Udolpho Woifb's Schiedam Aromatic Sciinapps.

BIRTH.

WELCH—On the 9th December, at her residence Newton Koad, Mrs. Tlios. Welch of a son.

DEATH.

EVANS—On the 9th inst., at her father's residence, Ponsonby, of inflammation of the lung's, A.my Lsstitia. youngest j oughter of Daniel F. Evans.

The funeral will take place at 5 p.m. on to-morrow (Friday).

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

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 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.

The Press Telegraphic Agency is a touchy institution, and is ready to fight on all occa sions. We believe it is often dealt with more roughly than it deserves, but it pro vokes attack by a sensitiveness respecting any suspicion of a leaning in politics to wards the General Government. We see, in a contemporary this morning, that the Agency has sent from the head-office at Wellington a telegram for publication in answer to the statement made by Sir George Grey in a recent speech, that " the tele grams that are sent to you are actually filtered out by the General Government." To this the manager says, "If Sir George Grey, in making this statement, referred to telegrams sent by the Press Agency, we wish to say that the assertion is wholly un true, and appears to be malicious." And how, we ask, .does the manager happen to know this ? Can he tell what passes within the walls of the Government office, or nar rate the manipulations to which messages are submitted ? Let us tell him a story, for the absolute truth of which wo have the word of the gentleman sending the telegram in question. The event occurred some eigh teen months ago. This gentleman had left at the telegraph office in Wellington a tele gram of a severely political character for transmission, we believe, to Auckland. Ten minutes after, desiring to alter a portion, he called again and requested, if the message had not been transmitted, that he might be permitted to make the alteration. The obliging clerk at once proceeded to make enquiry, and the conversation which took place behind one of the little screens or compartments was overheard by the gentle man waiting. The clerk enquired respecting the message, and a lad quickly replied, " Oh it has gone up to Mr Vogel." On such a tale—which, we may add, is not %oholly un known to the Agency, i unnecessary to comment. The writer of these lines can further personally testify to the repugnance manifested on certain occasions respecting telegrams of a strongly-pronounced character, and hasjbeen asked—"Butis that true ?" " Is that not libellous ?" and so forth, and has replied—" Be they lies or libels you send them." And as the department retains the right of refusing "objectionable" tele grams, he was convinced that it was only a certain character of dare-devil recklessness attaching to the paper with which he was communicating that secured their trans mission. What passes within the walls of a Government building is unknown to either the manager or us, and neither he nor we can assert that telegrams always appear in journals in the form in which they were sent. Instance the rebel words attri buted to the leader of the Opposition of last session, words which he never uttered and were never, sent. But we are perfectly confident from experience, that the "filtra tion" might take place in limine even, and that a good-natured, genial sort of fellow, such as the worthy Manager of the Agency unquestionably is, might easily be bluffed if it were necessary, when send ing an "objectionable" message, when another person more of the nature of a cross between the mastiff and the bulldog might

is another circumstfance to be mentioned. It is not to the discredit of the Agency, but it is a fact that there is an absolute necessity for such an Agency preserving amicable relations with the Government of the hour. This is requisite for having the entree into Govern ment offices, and without it official informa tion would be simply a sealed book. We do not say it to the dispsrag; <aent of the' Agency for necessity has no law, and next year, when Pollen and Co. are igno minioualy kicked out, and Sir George Grey as Premier, and a Ministry of his own party are in office, we shall find that the Agency will, and very properly so, be on the most amicable terms with the new dynasty, and that this amicable feeling m ill be manifested in the tone of the telegrams. This is busi ness, and we see no grounds for censure. The tone of some of the sub-agencies is of course af different matter. There the most virulent bias has been frequently manifested, extending even to lying consumedly. Prom this we entirely exonerate the manager and head office, who have to make the beat of the circumstanoes. Barring this politioal bias, which it is only folly to attempt to deny, we think the Press Agency is deserving of the highest encomiums for the excellence of its digest of news, and it should not be too touchy respecting criticism. Least of all should it eve- dream of defending the Go vernment or the Telegraphic Department. It is not called to do so. That depart ment has, from the first, been a mere tool of the Government, and has been prostituted to an extent 'not surpassed by any other for the gratification of political spite. Instance the attempt to crush evening journalism for its independent criticism, by charging even ing papers four times the rate 3of morning journals. No such things would ever have taken place had the department been a pri vate commercial company, or had those in co ntrol been other than political tools. How ever among the changes, which we trust a new Parliament and new Government will bring, we hope to see a clean sweep of the upper rooms of the Telegraph-office. Till then, we must bear with things as they are in the department that is perhaps not more corrupt than all else under the Pollen-Vogel administration. But we recommend the Press Telegram Agency to not constitute itself the protector either of the Government or its Telegraph Department. The fiddling with political telegrams is pretty generally known, and till the Agency is blamed itself it should keep its lips closedi

We are pleased to see the following in a leader in this morning's Cross, "For what reason the (Harbour) Board has not laid a couple of lines of trams along the floor (of the wharf) and thus saved almost constant renewal is what surprises ordinary observers." We confess that it has been to us for many years among those things which no fellah can understand, and often and again have we reverted to it. Will anyone gif bed with more prescience or more cheek than we, essay to instruct us as to the evils likely to "arise ii this very obvious means of facilitating traffic and saving the wharf from being shaken to pieces is carried out. That it would cause some inconvenience to half a dozen merchants to whose doors drays bring goods perhaps more conveniently than would a wharf tramway system we freely admit; and if the wishes and conveniences of half-a-dozen are to weigh against the interests of the whole people, then we throw up the sponge and admit we know nothing about it. But as we are not at the present moment in the frame of spirit to concede monopoly of wisdom to the Harbour Board, and the public are in the same mood; we should like, instead of a pooh pooh, to hear some rational cause assigned for the non-adoption of a tramway on the wharf. Por years we fought single-handed for asphalt against the pooh poohs of the City- Council. Now they are taking up the paving Btones to prevent ankles being broken, and are asphalt mad. Tell us why we have not had a tram way on the Wharf. We would tell, only our language would be impolite. Any one that stands on the wharf when a heavily-laden dray is passing and feels the rocking of the structure under his feet is filled with wonder that the thing has stood so ong. And yet—But why pursue the subject? Will our contemporary fire away on this business ? The Board is humiliated just now by the dock fiasco, and may be amenable to reason. Let us echo and re-echo the question about the tramway and demand why is this thus ?

To the Editor : Sir, —Can you inform me if it is the intention of the Auckland Steam Packet Company, to issue return tickets at single fares during the same months on the same conditions as those issued by the Union and the New Zealand Steam Shipping Com panies. I am very anxious to know.— Enquirer. [The idea is a very good one, and worbhv of the Company's consideration. —Ed. E.S.]

The literature of Englandjis a national glory, and any efforts in the direction of creating a high class standard literature for New Zealand should receive a cordial support. There are within the colony men whose attainments in science are such as would secure for them high positions in Great Britain ; others in different walks of learning are equally distinguished. We are glad, therefore, to read the announce ment of a quarterly journal of literature on a similar basis to the leading quarterlies of Great Britain, being especially modelled upon the pattern of the Contemporary Review. The first number is to be issued about the beginning of January. The edit ors, five in number, comprise names familiar throughout the colony :—G. A. Sale, M.A., Professor of Classics and English Language and Literature, Ofcago University ; D. Mac gregor, M.A., M.8., Professor of Mental and Moral Philosophy, Otago University; J. M. Brown, M.A., Professor of Classics, Canter bury College ; Rev. E. L. Stanford, M.A.; and P. W. Hutton, F.G.S., C.M.Z.S. We have no doubt that the New Zealand Maga zine will receive a large colonial support.

Upon the cutting up of good streets while other thoroughfares remain a quagmire, " Ratepayer" writes : " Sir, —Your remarks upon the action of the City Council in ex pending nearly £2000 upon the breaking up of Hobson-street will be heartily endorsed by every ratepayer. Drake-street, I under stand, is to be the next piece of folly perpe trated by our sapient city rulers. From the recently published city accounts Ifind that after paying the salaries oi our city digni taries last year there only remained £3787 for expenditure on all the streets of the city. I should like to be informed what the mis chief the Council mean by this Hobson street job. It is quite time a meeting of ratepayers wm called to mo iftt? it.—lvnw, JUATkBAYmiV' ■■■/■• ''■'-■■ ' ' ','■"':■ ~r " ; '■'.;.,

The contract undertaken by Mr Watson, of the Thames, for reconstructing 200 feet of the Queen-street wharf was finished yester day. Although the work has occupied a much longer period than that originally stipu lated when the tenders were invited, yet it is only fair to state that Mr Watson has not bsen to blame for the whole of the delay. The work has been carried out in a highly efficierit manner, and the job, now it is finished, must be pronounced an excellent one.

The public is informed that Rodger's new buss and pair of horses will run regular after ohis date from Penrose to Otahuhu, on arrival of every train. Fares, Gd each way.

A remarkable and noteworthy comment upon the continued mismanagement of our railway, appears in the form of a brief letter addressed to the manager of the line, beseech ing him to make known the signals. The letter is from one who should patronise the railway to the extent of over £100 a year, but is al most driven away by the extraordinary system that prevails. We wonder if the ap peal will be effective ?

The annual Caledonian games will be held at EUerslie Gardens on the 27 th mat. (Boxing Day). An advertisement appears elsewhere stating that £100 will be given away in prizes. The programme will appear on Saturday, but we may state that for pedestrians there will be two competitions— one at 100 yds and 250yda for sprinters, and another at 440 yds and 1 mile for long dis tance men, aggregate of points as in the Birthday Cup deciding the winners. First, second, and third prizes will be given.

The North Shore Rowing Club intend holding a grand athletic meeting in their picturesque locality on Monday,the 27th insb. The programme has already been published, and will be seen to be a highly interesting one. The principal prize is the Devonport Cup, a handicap framed on the same prin ciple as the late Birthday Handicap at Ellerslie Gardens. The first prize is £15, cup or money ; and the second prize £5. There is, also, a 300-yarda handicap, open to members of recognised rowing clubs, for which cups—value £7 and £3 —will be given. Altogether the list of events is so arranged as to be likely to bring out some good com petition.

Mr Yon der tteyde having on account of business engagements* retired from the candi dature of Waltemata, Mr Thomas Henderson, Ben., who for many years represented North ern Division and'Waitemata in the Assembly, announces his intention to stand. Mr J. S. Macfarlane likewise;intimates that he will be a candidate for the suffrages of the plectors. Mr Hull*!! addrtiss to tne electors of Marsden also appears fin our 'advertising columns. We observe also that Mr W. J. Hurst, will contest the seat for Waitemata.

We have just «een a requisition from Mackaytown, Ohinemuri, supplementary to that from the Thames, and which has this afternoon been presented to Sir George Grey, inviting him to stand ,as a candidate for the represontatidn of this Thames electorate. In it one hundred and forty bona fide electors say .• '' We pledge ourselves to support and vote for you, and use our utmost endeavours to return you as onr representative." We observe that it is headed by the name of one who is a giant in electioneering, and it surely must embrace the names of every eleotor in that region.

Extensive preparations are being made in Auckland for the performances of the cele brated Blondin. Mr McDonald; of the Miranda, has received an order to supply 73 roiittd kauri poles,. 55 feet high and not less than 5 inches in diameter at the small end, and 400 round poles of any tough wood 35 feet long and not less than 2 inches thick at the small end. These have to be delivered in Auckland as soon as possible, and are to be used in the construction of the building or cantas structure in which Blondin is to per form his marvellous feata.— Thames Adver tiser.

Sir, —In the several references which you have made to thp approaching election of Mayor, you speak of a "deputation" from the City Council as having waited on me. I understand that the members of Council disclaim Buch relationship. A gentleman certainly waited on me who is a member of Council, but I am happy to accept the expla nation that he was not deputed for this duty by the City Council.—l am, &c, B. Tonks.

A meeting of the Juvenile Templars was held last evening in the Pioneer Lodge-room. About 150 of the little people were present, and it was stated by the man in the chair that there was a balance of 203 in favour of the Temple after paying expenses of regalia and other bodily adornments.

Ata meeting of the Auckland Improvement Commissioners held yesterday, a letter was read from the committee of the Mechanics' Institute asking for terms upon which the commissioners would exchange the site of the Institute with that of the Wesleyan church, but the commissioners were net in a position to negotiate at present.

The verdict of the jury oh the enquiry concerning the death of the little boy, Albert Edward McGrath,who accidently drowned in an unprotected tank in the Barracks was duly forwarded to Wellington with the rider attached censuring the board of commission ers for their negligence. A reply from the under-acting secretary, was laid upon the table of the board of commissioners yesterday without comment. Mr Stevenson, the secre tary, said that the whole of the buildings in the neighbourhood of the tank, were occupied by the General Government and the com missioners never had possession-of them, the blame therefore did not properly jest with the commissioners. Here the matter ended, and the tank is likely to remain for some time to come, in its present dangerous con dition.

The meeting of the New Zealand Agricul tural Society called for yesterday, at the Criterion Hotel, Otahuhu, lapsed for want of a quorum, only the chairman, Mr Goodfellow, and the secretary, Mr M. Taylor being pre sent. After waiting nearly an hour, Mr Goodfellow put on his hat, and Mr Taylor folded up his minutes, and passed to their respective homes.

The second meeting of the "Victoria" lodge of the Protestant Alliance Friendly Society of Australasia, was held on Tuesday evening in the lodge room of the Young Men's Christian Association and a number of new members initiated and proposed. After appointing provisional officers, the lodge was closed to the 14th inst. The benefits from this lodge are liberal and the society has had a very wide spread since its formation. The Thames lodge has at present over 200 mem bers financially good, while the Canterbury and other Southern lodges are in an equally flourishing condition ; and the spread made by it in New South Wales, Victoria and the other Australian colonies surpasses the progress of any other benefit society estab lished there.

fjgThe story comes"*"from America that a woman there lately, knowing just what she wanted, went into a store and called for the article, not asking to be shown anything else, and then paid for it and went home without waste of time. Cable the news to Enrope.

She was one of those sentimental young creatures who linger at the doorway to bid you good-bye in the starlight, and after she parted from him the other night she went up to her room murmuring : ' Yes, I would know it was hard times by the kind of hair oil he uses now.'

Jones is engaged to a pretty and practical girl. Her birthday is October 15th. This morning Jones received a note from her which said : "Dear Jack, I feared you might send me a bouquet for a birthday present, as you did last year, and I thought I'd suggest to you that a parlour stove or a German stu dent's lamp would be a great deal better and either of them would keep." Jones has bought both, and intends sending up a peck of sweet potatoes with^hem.

MR. PEPYS IN AUCKLAND.

MR. PEPYS TAKES AN OUTING WITH SIR GEORGE GREY.

Tuesday, December 7. My gout very bad for some days, and hath quite confined me to my house. Take the air for the first time for nearly a week, and whom should I meet almost at my door but Sir George Grey just come up from the Thames, and with him a most beautiful little child, his niece, and to my joy Sir George remembered me and shook hands cordially, saying he was glad to meet an old friend, one whom he could always depend on when in office, which pleased me mightily and made me feel proud, knowing that when Provincial Treasurer, many years ago, the province was most prosperous. And so fell to talking of public affairs, and both hot upon the corrup tion which doth pervade all departments. Sir George asked me if I had leisure to go with him as far as Ellerslie Gardens, which he had a mind to walk in after his much work, " for," Baid he, " after so many years of ease, the toil of the session hath been rather over much and I would gladly seek repose but dare not, knowing how it is only by persistency I can carry through my refor mation." "And," said he, " there be scarce any, it grieveth me to see, who oil can rely on to maintain a bold front to the Govern ment while I rest me, so I am determined to keep up and doing till the good work is finished, and finished it shall be if only Auckland do elect men who will stand by me in the House and work for justice to the province." And at Britomart Station Sir George paid for two first-class tickets and gave me one, at which I was much eased in mind for I had just bethought me that Mrs. Pepys, who keepebh my purse, had not given me any money before I started. And having to stay some ten minutes before the train was due we did Converse upon the question of the dock and the conduct of the Harbour Board in giving eontraetora the trouble of estimating their tenders and then not accepting any, and Sir George said little, but methought he meant more than he spoke when he said that we must be charitable and not imputo bad motives to our fellow men. I " But," said 1, ''why aid ndt the members'of the Board make it their business to* If now the state of their finances ? Call you that fulfill ing their trust, SirJ George ? It seemeth to mo that fehe few figures at which the members were so aghast when coiicidoratfori of the tenders was had, should have been knGwn by heart by every man at that Board long before." "And why," continued I somewhat warmly, "did the chairman, who would appear to keep good account of tlie funds, not tell all this when the reclamation works west of the wharf w&re ctfntrsicted for ?'" And now our conversation was ciii Bncrrif hf the' train which set up a loud whistling before its de parture. And we started away, and on our journey Sir George told me of the in justice of the Government in making the Province pay tot ths deficiency in the railway receipts when those" deficiencies were brought about by the mismanagement tit the Government officials. " And to show you," said the knight; "hp'w unjust this is, we have had several offers from. reapon,sible firms to take the traffic into their hands and pay us nigh upon £3,000 a year for the privilege ; which we would do right sharp if it *were possible but cannot. And we alighted at Ellerelie I Gardens and walked and,, talked for nigh upon two hours amflng the flowers, and on the grassy slopes, which did try ttif leg badly, butit pleased me bo much to be seen in intimate converse with such a great man that I took no note Hi it j and Sir George was pleased to say that he had not enjoyed so pleasant a chat for many a day, which so elated me that forgetful of my impecunious condition I did order strawberries and cream for three of us, and there we eat in a beauti ful arbour and saw the berries gathered and brought to' Us flo fragrant and fresh and nice thick cream. And the man -Waited for his money, which I not observing Sir George drew out his purse and paid, at which I pretended indignation, but was secretly overjoyed that my thoughtlessness was thus protected: and. do mentally resolve that I will no more depend upon Mrs Pepys for my spare money ; but alas, the same resolution I have made many times before and it hath come to nought; and now back to town, and did say farewell to Sir Geo. Grey at the Britomart station, he having, at parting, expressed his wish that I should again take harness and fight with him. So home in mighty good humour.

TAIRUA GOLDFIELD.

Nevbsvillk, Tuesday. Our the arrival of the acting-manager, Mr. Sully, last night, the whole of the men em ployed on the Tairua Company's tramway and battery were discharged. Wages for the past month are due to the men. Inti mation has also been given to the contractor for the conveyance of the machinery, to be in no great haste, but give preference to the Ajax Company's. Mr. Walker, of the Long Drive, is fossick ing here and there about the Prospectors' mine, gaining information in all quarters prior to making his report. The small steam engine has arrived at the Prospectors' battery site, and will be erected at once, as the Golden Arrow will start to crush at once.— Advertiser.

ASSAULT ON JUDGE MUNRO BY A NATIVE.

A great commotion was caused amongst the natives who are attending the Native Lands Court at Shortland yesterday forenoon, by the arrest of the chief Eapana Maunganoa, for an assault on Judge Munro, of the Native Lands Court. It appears that a piece of land, for which Rapana was a claimant, was being adjudicated upon. Other natives claimed to be included in the Crown grant with Rapana, and substantiated their titles to the satisfaction of the Judge. After judgment was delivered, the natives cleared out at once, and Judge Munro was just coming out of the Court - room (the American Theatre) when4 Eapana rushed at him, and commenced in an angry excited manner to address him. Judge Munro attempted to pass out several times, but was as often prevented by the angry old chief, who pushed him back, evidently^ for the purpose of detaining him until he had told him a piece of his mind. His Honor sent for the police, and gave Eapana in charge, and he was taken away to the lock-up. The natives were very much excited over the transaction. Immediately after the sitting of the Licensing Commission Captain Fraser, in his capacity as Resident Magistrate, sat to hear the charge, which was that of unlawfully assaulting Judge Munro at Shortland, this day. De fendant denied striking, but admitted mak ing a noise, being dark through losing his land. Judge Munro said when I gave judge meet the other natives left the Court. I was myself the last to leave the Court, when Rapana rushed on me like a madman, and commenced addressing me in a very violent way, and every time I attempted to pass him he pushed me. back. I had only, two alternatives to send for a police man or knock him down, and I pre ferrpd the former, and gave him in charge. His Worship said if he did not know that Rapana was a good native at bottom he would not give him the option of a fine, but would send him to prison without the option of a fine, but as he knew him to be a good peace able Maori, he would let him off with a fine of £10, or in default a month's imprisonment. There was a large concourse of natives in court. Rapana seemed inclined to take put his sen tence, but a well-dressed Maori woman called ont to wait and the money would be paid. The prisoner was removed, but in a few minute* the fine was paid, and he was liberated,— 'Thames Advertiser, '

OHINEMURI.

December 6th.

The next Warden's Court day has been fixed for the 14th instant, and already a Urge number of plaints have been laid. 1 hear that the welcome is to be attacked again. The last plaint against the No. 1 South (orMazeppa) ground was struck out, but I understand that another has been laid. Something must be done to clear out those shareholders who will neither work nor abandon their interests so that others can GLM.O. are carrying on operations in a very strange way. First they called for tenders for a low level tunnel and stated that the specifications would be on view at Messrs Cassels and Bennett s hotel, Paeroa. They failed so to send the specifi cations, and caused considerable annoyance to many who intended to tender. They have again called for tenders.

The Presbyterian General Assem bly at Christchurch.

UNION OF THE NORTH AND SOUTH CHURCHES.

(BY TELEGRAPHJ

CHKISTCHURCH. (From our own Correspondent.) This day.

On Tuesday evening the overture from Canterbury Synod for separation from the Church in the North and union with the Otago Church, was rejected. Afterwards an interesting conference on the union of the two churches was held. An excellent ad dress was given by the Deputy from Dune din. The basis of the union was re-confirmed, and deputies appointed to go to Dunedin to complete the arrangements for union. On Wednesday forenoon a memorial from the Canterbury Sabbath Observance League was well received. The establishment of & Theological Hall at Auckland was approved of, and remitted to a committee to report to the next Assembly. ... The rfiport of the College Committee, re commending a high standard for students, was adopted. The insufficient reporting- of the proceed ings oi the Assembly by the Christchurch press was s s+erely commented upon.

COURT.—This Day.

POLICE (Before R. C. Barstow, Esq., R.M.) A€JAINBT GOOD MANNERS. H~oraice Chandler, a young man with a dfeMixXllf Ctrt face Was brought up under the vagrant atffc with misbehaving himself in Durham-street last evening with talent to commit a breach of the peace. Pris»ner, (tremnloasly). Not guilty. Charles Wilson, a boarding-house keeper, iri I?ttrham-Btreet, deposed that prisoner came ttf hiS BoSee last'night and demanded money of him id p&J his passage to New York j he refused him, when he peremptorily demanded a good feather bed ; he pat him out with much difficulty and dosed the door, telling him kindly to' go about his business. Prisoner then, with an oatn, said he would have his (Mr Wilson's) life. His noisfc and wild conduct aroused the whole neighbour hood ; he thought he would have knocked dorm the house. Martin Olson, a lodger and native^ of Sweden, described the scene in an indistinct manner ; prisoner called Mr Wilson awful names, and threatened him; he smashed a window. Prisoner said he went civilly to the house and asked for a bed, when Mr Wilson shoved him down on the stones in consequence of which he got his face cut; he was not drunk. • Sergeant Mulville took the prisoner into custody, he was very much excited, but did not obstruct the police. The Court found the prisoner guilty, and ordered a fine of 20a and costs or 14 days imprisonment. SOLDIER JOHNNY. " Oh nanny wilt thou gaug -wl me?* John Conn, described as a pensioner, formerly of the Hibernian Mountaineers, was charged with stealing two goats, value £2, the property of Fergus O'Keeson, at Mount Smart, on 18th ult. Prisoner denied the charge. He purchased the goats and paid for them, which he could prove to the satisfaction of the Court. Mr. Inspector Broham asked for a remand as he believed he should be able to shew that prisoner did not come by the goats honestly. The case was remanded until Monday next, and prisoner was allowed bail, himself in £20, and two sureties in £10 each. THE LOG. Hugh Wilson was summoned to answer for a charge of obstructing the path in Queen-street by carrying a log. Defendant denied the charge. Constable Allen described the offence ; he rebuked, but defendant persisted.

Sidney Philpot deposed that on Friday evening he was assisting to carry the log, and that he did not offend in the way as stated by the constable. His friend was not smoking, he was only preparing for a smoke. Mr Broham said he would not press for a heavy penalty, but he should like youngsters to know that they must not suffocate people with their pipes and blind them with logs of wood.

His Worship took a lenient view of^ the case, and fined Mr Hugh Wilson Is *and costs, 11s 6d.-

OFFENSIVE,

Isaac Taylor, a resident of Parnell, was charged with depositing offensive matter in a part of that locality to the injury of the public health. Defendant said he was guilty, and much regretted the circumstance.

The Court fined him in the sum of 53, and costs 11s 6d.

Defendant said he had no money, but as soon as pension day came round he would pay the money like a gentleman, as Constable Jackson well knew.

Constable Jackson shook his head, and in timated that he should not care to trust him.

Mr Broham assured the Court that defend ant wonld never pay. The Court said he must pay within four teen days, or go to prison for seven days. A candid confession; Mr Louis Davey,. a gentlemen residing in the country, was summoned for riding on the footpath at Newmarket. Mr Alexander, on the part of defendant pleaded guilty ; his client was not conversant with the by-law, and had unwittingly offended. Fined Is and 6s 6d costs.

AMUSEMENTS AND MEETINGS.

Monsieur, O'Biel's canine dogs and Mr Towle's panoramas w.ero represented last evening to a very fair audience, and the varied performances appeared to give general satisfaction. We notice that to-night will be the last opportunity the public will have of seeing this entertainment, which will be under the patronage of Sir George Grey, X.C.8., Mil Worship the Mayor, Captains Buna and LeKoy, and the officers of the Artillery and If aval Brigade. Mr Towle will sing the beautiful song of Kilarney, the band of the Artillery will play musical selections during the evening, and a number of valuable prizes will be given away. The seventh entertainment in connection with the flourishing Fitt-street Wesleyan Literary Society will take place to-morrow (Friday) evening. We invite attention to the fruitful programme full of intellectual and musical sweets.

A variety concert will be 'held next week in the Devonport Hall, North Shore, in aid of the funds of the North Shore Bowing Club. The names on the programme are a sufficient guarantee of the character of che undertaking. Among the lady singers we notice the names of Miss Coleman and Miss Tongue, both rising' vocalists ; and among the gentlemen, Messrs Harding, Davey, and Brookes, singers of ac knowledged merit.

Competitive essays from Subscribers to Saturday Night, for the Sewing Machine, cannot be received later than Saturday, the 11th but. Subject; " The Most Enjoyable Way of Spending CJuiatmM in the CoSoniem." ■-

TELEGRAPHIC.

GRAHAMSTOWN.

(From our own Correspondent.) Yesterday.

Gale.— Crushings. A Btiff gale from the north is blowing to* day. The Manaia is detained in consequence at the request of passengers. The Queen of Beauty have ceased crushing temporarily until the opening up of the new block in the surface level is further advanced. The Rough and Ready trial crushing of 3 tons yielded 2 oza 11 dwts. The Caledonian has not yet completed clearing up ; it will probably take ten daya yet to complete the treatment of tailings. The yield will be satisfactory, probably 350 Thia day. Queen of Beauty. Stoppage. A. rough unsteady gale is blowing. All the Masons and Volunteers are to attend the funeral of the late Captain Wil liams this afternoon. The stoppage of the Queen of Beauty created alarm. It is hoped the pumps will be started by three principal mines, eonv pelling others to pay contributions under the act. Many men are leaving the district in consequence of the stoppage of the Waio* karaka mines. Eled-io** matters are quite waiting to sea Sir George and Mr Sheehan stand. Both would go in. ; .

LATEST SOUTHERN TELEGRAMS.

NAPIER,

(From Oar Own Correspondent). This day. The Native Legal Business. Mr Costerell, solicitor here, a partner with Mr Wilson, wanted Mr White, author of Ts- Roi», to translate some notices of ejectment against natives residing on Onaaranui. One of the cases is still sub judice. Mr White, of course, knowing the whole transaction, refused. Mr C'otterell then raade formal complaint to the Government Agent, send ing a copy of the letter to Mr White, urging the suspension of his certificate. Sir Donald McLean has been interviewed by Karaitiana. Takamoana, and told plainly that any action he may take to prejudice Mr White will be severely reprimanded, and the natives e» masse will support Earaithuia agaioat the action of the Native Minister.

Another Opponent to Sir Donald. Mr Maney stands against Sir Donald Mc- Lean in the great Catholic and country interest. He will receive the support off small holders. There is great consternation among the ring. He advocates a land tax. He headed the provincial poll last election.

WELLINGTON.

(From our own Correspondent.) This <Say. "tfTell&gton Summer Weather Tuesday Was one of the most villainsus" days that people ever suffered, and was onSjr exceeded by yesterday, which was nothing" but a succession of fierce sqnalia and blind ing rain. Of course there waa tlie usual flood at the Hutt yesterday, with people going about like amphibious animals, knew deep in water. A lot of people were missing i with boats, but all turned up except one,, who went out in a boat belonging to the schooner Canterbury. At a boatbuilder's, several boats lying outside the shed awaiting repairs were whistled off by one of. the squalls and converted into flying machines, but shortly came to grief in another allot ment. Hulk Driven Asliore. The Government hulk Omega, through not I being properly secured, broke her moorings and went ashore. She has a lot of zwiway ron on board. The New Paper in Dunedin. Information has been received here that ithose gentlemen who went down to Dunedin to start a paper in the interest of the Fedei* alist party under Sir George Grey, have beep successful, and have nearly completed thew arrangements. The paper will appear on the l»t January. "

DUNEDIN.

(From our own Correspondent.) This day, Shortening the Suez Route. The Star says the P. and Q. Co. havema<W offers to the Colonial Governments for art alteration of the Suez route, which will greatly lessen the time, by the transfer of intermediate ports from Galle to Changos Islands. It is calculated that the mail time between London and Adelaide will be re duced to 36 days, to Melbourne to 38 day», Sydney to 40 days, and Wellington to 43 days. If the proposals are favourably en tertained the company will build first-class steamers of large size.

The Tip-Country Murder. The Lake Onau mystery has received very little further development. A post mortem on-Hannah's exhumed remains showed that death was caused by shock to the brain from an injury inflicted on the left side of the head, through partial dislocation of the neck. The police are unable to discover any trace of Cunningham: The Legislative Council. The Times, discussing the question oi re form of the Upper House, thinks there is only one remedy,that the nominated Counou should altogether cease existence when, »no, only when, the Lower House is chosen upon some distinct logical plan. New Tug. ; The new tug for this port will be 110 horse* power, and is named the Fokupa, the native name of Port Chalmers. It is expected out in four months at the latest.

Lake Candidates. There are four candidates for the Lake* seat—Messrs. Leary, of Dunedin; Birth, of Arrow; Mcßoide, sen., in farmersintereit; and Manders, M. P. C.

Sir Dillon Boll.^ Sir Dillon Bell had a large meeting at the Temperance Hall last night. The main pomta dealt with were the relations between the Otago and Colonial finance difficulty in the way of effecting any political change in the shape of federation or separation, and what ought to be done to maintain inviolate Pro vincial administration and entity. He went very fully into the second subject showing lW utter impracticability and advocated the re tention of bodies similar to Provincial Conncilß to be called Beards of Works having no legwr lative functions, to which should be confided the opening ef land for settlement, manage ment of branch railways, main roads, ana engineering department to lay out main un« and give assistance in district works. There ought to be Shire Councils and Road Board" with most defined powers which should give to the Board of Works the land revenue, and to Shire CouncU strictly local revenue. The question of expending the land _.fu3 a would be fought in the Board of WorKS. Despite Sir George Grey's power, _he saw, any attempt to repeal the Abolition 3M. must end in complete failure, ana, n returned he should vote straight •cf Dr such proposal. He said the bill appeals to moderate Provincialists for support. J»j Macandrew at his meeting on Monday W"A ■ answer Sir Dillon Bell. , >

OAMARU.

(Per Press Telegram Agency.>^^»' J „ ,Otaw Times. a .Jx The North Otago Times announces tn« n tfrom the Ist of January next it will be pw iished daily. The proprietors also "PKJ^J their intention of publishing a *ee*K^ an early date, under the titte *»• Nm Otago Brariffir%

THE KYIKINO STAR, THURSDAY, PEOtMßiftjS.lß7B



JTOTICE. JJOTICE. JUST TO HAND— A Large Parcel of Double -width Waterproof Tweed, Melton Cloth, Blue Diagonal, 4c, specially adapted £or_Beys' Clothing, Ladies' wear, &c, " Bought at Auotion at con siderably less than English Invoice Price, and to be sold very cheap. Also, Lawn Handkerchiefs from S3 9d per dozen—l2o dozen; Linen Cambric Handkerchiefs, from 5s 6d per doz. Upwards of 50 dozen Men's Cotton Shirts, Fancy Jean, Napier, the new Flax Shirt, etc. Abysinnian Cord Trousers. Men's Tweed Waistcoats, and a num ■ tier of other Special Lines at much below usual price. INSPECTION' INVITED, RTJSJH BROOK & BRIDGMAN, [Late E. Hobbs], JUNCTION DEAPERY WAREHOUSE, . Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel, UPPER QITEEff-STREBT, Auckland jgPRING JpESS QOODS. AN IMMENSE VARIETY • • op NEW DRESS GOODS, Comprising— Black and Coloured Silks Japanese Silks Plain and Fancy Homespun Serges Balernos, Washing Satteens and Piques i Spring Tussores, Lawns and Brilliants Prints, Swiss Muslins and Cambrics Costumes in great variety ' . Grenadines In Plain, Fancy, ana Stripea, very cheap, &c, &c, &c. A LARGE STOCK OP FANCY GOODS. Comprising all the Novelties of the Season. 100 DOZEN PAIRS OP KID GLOVES, SLIGHTLY SOILED, ONLY. IS. 3D. An Inspection Invited. A. LINABTJRY & CO., 224 and 228, Queen-street. ■yOU CAN BUY CHEAP CLOTHING, and A GOOD PIT, AT THE . i J9S- CITY HALL, -m Silk Dust Coats 12/6 Boys' Holland Tunic Suits, G/U Boys' Knickerbocker do, from 12/6 Men's Tweed Suits, 35/ ; ! ... . . Boys' and Youths' Tweed Suites, 25/ Men's colonial Tweed Trousers and Vests, 22/6 ' Eegatta Shirts, 2/11 •Fait and Straw Hats, from 1/. . . --• t ..... ..„..?* - HOLLO WAY & GARLICK Can Selii Yotr the Cheapest! Dress in Auckland. Plain Lustres, at /6% Special Line- Good Grey Lustre, 30 inches wide, /ll^; worth 1/6 All-wool Carmalite. /9><f Immense Variety of P/ints, from 33£ 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 On View! i®- buy your summer hats UOtltO WfAJY , & Ot ABIICK



J 00$ GRAVE & CO. will hold their Annual Sale previous to the Christmas Holidays, com mencing THIS BAY, ( Wednesday)) the $th December, andj will continue until the end of the year. The entire stock will he offered at Cost Price.