SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

tttott xxr \TTTT. i This Afternoon, 12 __lOH wAI.EK-| To . morrow Morning> 0.21, SUN SET.—This Evening. 6.22. SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning, 5.6. MOON'S AGE.—First Quarter, -sth, 7.31 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

May Queen, schooner, Mcnzics, from Rarotonga Rowcna, s.s., Sellars, from Tauranga

DEPARTURES.

PROJECTED DEPARTURES. For Sydney—Llewellyn, s.s., early For Sydney and Melbourne—Hero, s.s., three

days after arrival For the Islands—Coronet. Fortune, and Blanche, schooners, and Pearl, ketch, early. For Norfolk Island: Southern Cro3S, Mission Vessel, 2nd November.

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Hero, s.s., from Sydney, Sunday 29th Llewellyn, s.s., from Sydney, early Edith, schooner, from the Islands.'early Orari, ship, from London; sailed 13th July City of Auckland, K.M.T.R., from London ; sailed 4th August. Janet Stewart, brig, from Melbourne, early John Matthu&s. barquo.fiam Boston: sailed 17th July. Tamaya, barque, V.D.N.J., from London, sailed Jessie Osborne, ship from London, sailed sailed Bella Mary, barque, from Hobart Town; 19th

IMPORTS.

Por May Queen from Rarotonga : 10 tons copra, 21 bales cotton, 3 casks cocoanut oil, 62 do. lime juice, 15 baars coffee, 1000 cocountits, 11 crates oranges, 1031bs whalebone—Owen & Graham, Agents.

ARRIVAL OF THE MAY QUEEN.

Th& smart now fore-and-aft schooner May Queen, arrived from Rarotonga before daylight this morning, after an oxceedinglv fast run home of 10 days 12 hours, and a good round Lrip of 7 weeks— an excellont maiden performance, especially as she has a full cargo. Captain Monzics, who brings his vessel into port in beautifully clean condition, ha., furnished us with tho following report :—Left Auck land on tho 3rd September with S.W. wind at starting-, increasing- to a sale ; tho next day hove-to for 12 hours. On tho fith, the weather was clear, but the wind.,.a. hit?h. Laid the ship on her course, Had steady westerly winds to 162 W., 29 S., when tho wind hauled to the northward. From thence, variables to Raro tonga, reaohed on the afternoon of the 21st. On Saturday. 11th October, left for Auckland with a. fight 3.E. breeze. Had steady S.E. weather to Sunday Island, which was passed at 4 a.m. on the 21st. Macaulay Island was passed at noon samo day. On tha 2tth, at 1 p.m., made the Poor Knights. Passed Tiritiri at midnight, and arrived in harbour at 3.30 this morning. Pas senger—Mrs Menzies. The May Queen brings a cargo of Ihnejuice, cotton, whale oil, cocoanut oil, cobra, fruit, coffee, &c

The brig, Vision has been la".'"' ilongside the outer main tee, for the purpos _r loading for the Islands.

The Roderick Dhu is discharging her cargo at the b erry Co'a tee. The s.s. Southern Cross leaves Napisr to-day f or Auckland.

The schooner Transit has left Port Albert for Oamaru with 02,000 ft. timber. Tho cargo of tho barquo Abernyte is turning out in splendid order. Scarcely a case but what looks as if it had only just been placed onboard. Tho schooner, Belle Brandon, cleared out to day for Lyttelton via the Thames, where she will take in a load of timber. Tho schooner, Agnes Donald, which started for the Marshall Islands last week, has been ly ing in the Kawau since Sunday. The barque Adela has entered out for New castle.

_ ho schooner Queen is announced to sail for Hokianga on Saturday evening next. The May Queen crime alongside the wharf this morning. She has taken the berth astern of the \ ision.

The schooners, Blanche. Coronet-, and Fortune, all ready to sail for the Island., arc detained by the N.E. weather.

ISLAND SHIPPING.

(By the May Queen.)

WRECK OF THE HUMBOLT.

The schooner Humbolt, of Tahiti, struck on the Eastern reef at Avarua on the 4th Oatober, and became a total wreck. Everything that could be done to save the vossol was done by the cap tain and crew. The hull was sold at auction for $90. Everything- having been taken out of her. A LAUIVCH AT RAROTONGA.

The 28th September was a grand day at Raro tonga. A launch was to take place, and as this is an event which is of very rare occurrence in the island the whole popidation with Queen Makea at their head turned out to witness it. The day, which was fine, was observed as a strict holiday by all classes, and'no work was done other than what was immediately connec ted with tho launch. The vessel which was the cause of all this gaiety is not unknown in Auckland. Her name was once the Petrel, and she was owned in that port. She was wrecked here nearly a year ago, and has gradually been rebuilt. The" stocks were fully two hundred yards from the water, and the intervening space was occupied by the hard reef. I expect a ship builder in Auckland would have had to think twice before ho made up his mind how to get her into the water. But these islanders did not sec any difficulty about the matter. Ways were dispensed with altogether, but still means were not wanting (o-xcu.se the pun). This is how the Rai-otongan.. wont about it—the Queen, if you please, giving all the 01 tiers. First of all they built up a strong and compact cradle under the vessel. This was so wedged together that no amount of .jerking could displace the logs and planks of which it was composed. This being rcadv in the morning, the whole population turned out early, not only to witness, but assist at the grand event. I may mention tiiaP immensely strong ropes had been twisted out of: the numerous creepers which abound on tho Island, and which are more tenacious than any manilla fibre in the world. These were fastened on to flic craft in various points, and the crowd distributed themselves, a couple of score taking up their positional the ends of each rope. Then, after a silent pause, during which her Majesty, who was elevated on a pile of stones, gave a rapid glance round to see if all the preparations were complete, the word was given. The crowd veiled with all their might, the tom-toms were beaten, and the other native musical instruments were made to give forth an infernal din, which resembled, as nearly as I can imagine, the noise made by the Babylonians when homage was done golden image. .And nt tho same time the men hauled on the ropes. The inert mass was unable to resist the com bined efforts of the vigorous pullers. Slowly it began to move over the ground, und each onward jump the vessel made was greeted with louder and louder cheering, and mightier crash ing of the diabolical music. After two or three hours hard labour, over half the distance was traversed, and then the vessel stuck fast and refused to budge. The work then had to be given up for the day. Next morning the ob struction, whatever it was, had been removed, and the same process being gone through, the cutter was safely launched. Tho ceremony of christening was performed in English fashion by -Miss Stringer, of Tahiti. The vessels new name is the Jenny Chalmers. " The schooner L-Etitia arrived at Rarotonga on the 23rd Sept. * ' The barque Don Diego.Captain Francis.arrived at Rarotonga from Melbourne on the Ith Oct. She left port on the 3rd Sept. - ----- q ■ —«-—_>■- • L.-r

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Closk as Under:—

For Thames, this day, at 4.30 p.m., and to morrow, at 9.30 a.m. For Whitiangi, Tairua, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowcn'a, this day, at 1 p.m. For Waijwera, Mahurangi. Matakana, and Te Arai, per Anno Milba'nk, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. , , For Gisborne and Napier, pel- Go-ahead, on Friday next, at 1.15 p.m. For Coromandel, per Argyle, on Friday next, at 2.30 p.m. For Napier and Gisborne. per Southern _ros3, on Saturday next, at 1.15 p.m. For Taranaki and Southern provinces, per 4 Ladybird. «n Saturday next, at 1.15 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 12.... p.m. Lato letters will be received till 1.30 p.m. AW A Receiving Box has been erected at Holmes's' Store, Upper Symonds-street, and will be cleared atß a.m. and 3 p.m. daily. . AW A Prvst-olticc has been opened at .. hin maki, Hokianga. Mails will be despatched every Monday. Returns mails will arrive every Saturday. , „ T , . (Signed) S. 13. BfSS, Chief Postmaster.

BIRTH.

DAWSON—On Hie 22nd inst., at he.-residenci Wellesley-street, the wife of Dr. F. AY. I' Dawson, of a. son.

BELL—On the -!>th October, at her residence, Sussex-street, Newton, Mrs. W. F. Bell of a son.

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

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 1876.

For.-th.. cause rliat lacks assistance, I'-.j-nh- wrorrL' tharji-eds resistance, l-'Jf Uiu lutun. iir tnc distiiticu,

ArrJ.tlre good Urru wc can do.

The auriferous lands of the Upper Thames have not engaged that attention from

capitalists which their ascertained richness merits. Disappointing sanguine expecta tions in the first instance, no sufficient enthusiasm has since been aroused to fairly test the resources of the held. Most of the claims that have been taken up and opened are held by working miners, destitute of funds, and without proper facilities for reap ing the golden harvest that may be lying at their feet. And money comes slowly very slowly—to their, aid from the pockets of investors. Gold-mining speculation is re garecl with very different feelings now than in the early days of tbe Thames, when any man who pegged off a piece of ground, and some who had no ground at all, found planty of milch goats ready to embark cash in the ven ture. Truth is that specimen-stealing, salt ing, and loafing, more than the legitimate and unavoidable uncertainties of mining, have pretty well killed the goose that laid the golden egg. Six years ago, the dis covery of prospects equalling those already developed at Ohinemuri and Tairua, would have sent the stocks of all mines along the lines of reef sky-high. But while the dis position to venture on a fair risk is, perhaps, as strong as ever, very few people find money iv these times so plentiful and easily acquired, as to venture their capital against the long odds of swindling. It is very un fortunate for our gojdlie.ds, and no less so for the whole province, that the rascality of a few rogues should have brought about such complete want of confidence ; the more unfortunate, because to the opening up of new industrial centres - and especially those where mineral deposits supply an easily realised return for re-in . cat meatr—must we look to % revival of trade

and permanent prosperity. "We should be very sorry to see a renewal of that gambling ami reckless spirit which a few years ago supplied a delightful hold for the operations ot" sharpers. The result of such indiscrimi nate speculation is inevitable relapse. ftarge capitalists have however, exhibited an undue caution in entering upon the prudent development of those mining areas at Ohinemuri, which can show substantial prospects. The example of Mr. Bleazard is one that might be followed in oth.r loctilities with a certainty of handsome re turns. The first crushing for the Wa-ite kauri Company gave Mr. Bleazard an earnest of the reward payable for his enter prise, and fhere appears to be little doubt that in addition to a very liberal price for his battery, his third interest in the amalgamated claims will yield him a fortune. Wise investments like this, by practical men who understand their busi ness, would go farther towards creating that feeling of confidence among outside inves tors, so heartily to be desired, than any number of showy specimens and trial crush ing.. In the present discouraging statu of trade, an intelligent attention should be given by every business man to the develop ment of our virgin fields.

A RIVERTOX telegiTMii reports that a few enthusiastic admirers of Abolition in that district have humbly petitioned the Gov ernor to proclaim tbe day on which tbe Abolition Bill comes into operation a public holiday. We bad come to believe that the acme of flunkcyism had been reached ere now in and out of Parliament, but it seems that Riverton is desirous of immortalizing itself by descending into unknown depths of subserviency. We might suggest, ns there will be some difference of opinion on the subject, that a petition be sent from Auckland requesting the Governor to pro claim Abolition Day one of humiliation and prayer. We were about to add fasting also, but that will doubtless come in due time.

His Excellency the Governor may be ex pected in Au.kland in a inw weeks. lI.M. Sapphire leaves for Wellington next week and will probably convey his Excellency here to reside during the Summer.

We are sorry to hear that Mr Alexander Saunders, mining agent, is dangerously ill. lie is attended by two medical gentlemen.

"Querist."-—We have consulted the best authorities on the Crimean war for the purpose of answering .y*. it r question : "How nrany returnod from the Uaiaclavacharge?" and "each of those authorities are nearly alike. Kinglake states that " Under 700 went out, and less than "JOO returned." Cliambers' in their " History of the Russian War," say : "About b'7o w.cnt out, and less than'2oo returned ;" and Dr Collier in his " Events of the Nineteenth Century," gives the same acewnt of the Light Cavalry charge which cut through a mass of 5000 men, and advanced to the mouth of the cannon of the enemy. Owing to certain difficulties, the true number, we believe, was never ascertained,

While the Goldie-Broham cause eclebre was under investigation by the Nuisance Committe. yesterday, there was another Nuisance Committee "going on " at a rate outside. This c.oinm_.two was a mn. iin a white coat, and with an agonised expres sion upon his furrowed features, who paced up and down in a state of intense agitation, gesticulating and thrusting at random with a large gingham umbrella. He was heard to mutter to a, reporter, who was hovering about the passages : —" Bloss my soul ! Bless my soul! Might lie trying a man for murder ! Why not let public in—eh ?" Our reporter hopes it will not be supposed that the person was Mr Greenaway.

A man named Williun Joyce was locked up this afternoon at the police station, on a charge of obtaining money by false pre tences with intend to defraud Mr Corcoran of the Greyhound Hotel. He will be brought up in the morning to answer the charge. Mr. G. N. Urasscy, of Mr. Brookfields office, was admitted to-day as a barrister of the Supreme Court, having passed a most successful examination.

The concert In the Public Hall, Newmar ket, was a great Buecess last evening. Mr. David _r«ldic occupied the chair, ailfl in his hi*»odU-tery speech, explained the object of the concert, which waa to a«H_st the building funds of the new Primitive Metho dist church of the district. The choir was in full trim, and sang with good'effect a num ber of Moody and Sankey's hymns. Several recitations were also given. Miss Currie recited her -favorite "May Queen" in a very pleasing manner, and her brother gave "The Charge of the Light Brigade." The Rev. Walter Harris, of Sheridan-street, read " The Heart's. (Iharity." M iss J«. sic Woods sang " Call me not back from the l_choless Shore" in an acceptable manner. The whole was pleasing, acceptable, and credi table to till concerned.

learn that the Rev .J. Selwyn, son of the Bishop of Lichfield, who has laboured two years in tho Mclancsimi Mission, will he elected Bishop of that See at the next, session of the General Synod, and will pro bably he consecrated in January next.

Napier is to he blessed with, a barrel organ, and a, Punch aud Judy. Blessed Napiei; J

"If ever there was a rolling stone," says I the London "World:" it was Mr. E. P. Hingston, who died recently iv Lour lon. Play-writer and actor, traveller, spiritualist, Indian chief, Fiji courtier, agent and accountant, pedestrian, manufacturer of Dutch clocks, journalist, Cincinnati" pig raiser, notable "brave" amongst the Maoris and South Sea Islanders, sheep-shearer in- New Zealand, and store-keeper in 'Frisco, — no man ever saw more phase** of human life. He was tit one time thought to be a Mor mon, by the Mormons themselves of Salt Luke City. He was theatrical q^ent to Avonia Jones and her husband Gustavus Brooke. Home, the spiritualist, employed him, as did also Artemus Ward, Professor Anderson, Spiers and Pond.&c., as business agent.

Tho " Poverty Bay Standard " says :— " Vogelism has been the " Golden Age" of Now Zealand ; wo are about entering the "Age of Iron," or mora probably of "Bra?*."

A lb'O ton gun is to bo made for the British Government.

The Masterton Good Templars were somewhat "sold" lately. Roberts had engaged the Hall for hia billiard tourna ment, and, strange to say, the Good Temp lars had also engaged it" for an installation meeting. Roberts, however, had the ground first, and when the lovers of aqua pura came rolling up one by one, thoy were asked for half-a-sovereign before they could be admitted. This was a "settlor," and they were obliged to postpone the installation.

A one-armed billiard player has been astonishing the good folks at Westport, by giving any local man 10 points out of SU, and winning.

Referring to tho telegram from our Coromandel correspondent o\- Monday, stating that a loo.il director who '_id visited the Union Beach mine had oxi-Te-fc-d the opinion that the eyes were being picked out ot flic mine, we arc requested by Mr. Geqrgo McLeod to state that lie has expressed no opinion whatever. He went down the mine for his own satisfaction, and those who want any information concerning it may go and do likewise.

It is all right now; the mystery is all solved, the great set-ret is out. The spirit ualists have "sat on" the ghost of Charles Bravo whioh has kindly vouchsafed the information that he committed suicide. The thanks of an intelligent public are due, and when we have eyes to see and ears to hear and hearts to understand, will be duly accorded, to the men of faith who have generously published this information which they alone knew how to acquire. A Dr. Shcppard is groat on the psychological aspects of the case. He is persuaded that Mr. Bravo committed suicide ; and in sup port of this view, he cites the facts that two of Mr. Bravo's sister.1, show signs of neuvosis. One is of feeble capacity, and lives in a convent, another is deaf and dumb. It is well known that a vast pro portion of homicides are committed by persons whose near relations are deficient in some important physical functions, or who are epileptic, deformed, or morbidly excit able. He argues that Mr. Bravo inherited what is called " the licuvotie temperament," which, though it had previously shown itself in him only by great excitability, resulted at last, in dim course of disease, in suicide under the stress of a homicidal impulse. The committee of the Licensed Vict nai lers Ball -\till meet to-morrow afternoon at tbe British Hotel, at half-psst two o'clock, when tho tendors for supply of refre-linio-it s will be opened- A parient who is al thoKumara, received tho joyful news that hi.s wife had presented him with a double token of her affection. The following is a copy of the telegram to him announcing the fact :—" Twin sons this morning; all doing well. Send approved names." The reply came as follows: — " Drown them ! You are always making a fool of me." Mr. Phaiii, formerly of the West Coast, and more recently of the Marlborough "Times," has succeeded Mr. Lionel Browne • n the staff of the " Hawkes Bay Herald." The promoters of the Fancy Fair for the fund ol the Mftunt Albert and Whan par sonage, have secured the ITew premises, next to tho Bank of New Zealand, where the fair will open to-morrow afternoon at two o'clock. The Co-opera five Society, started two years ago, in the Kawakawa district, seems progressing in a favorable direction. The fourth quarterly meeting was held on the LStii inst., Mr. R. E. Fii*ch in the chair. ! Forty shareholders were present. The ' ha-Alice sheet, and report were considered satisfactory torso young a society, and wen pa. sed. A dividend of 10 per cent, mi capital, and it bonus of 3s in the pound, on shareholders purchases for the quarter amounted to I-.,<>'.».), -Is lOd.nnd wiles for the satin: period, £3,387 'is 10d. These figures speak for themselves, and need no puffing comment. Tbe Saving Bank in connection with the general store is also satisfactory. During the last quarter the deposits have been CISO, which, in addition to the prior sum of _2.'.7, amount to LI 17, which forms a grand testimony to the economy, and thrift, of the Kawakawa settlers. We understand further that the slock in the store is weighty, and calculated to inspire a sense of security in the minds of the share holders. The house of Mr. Robert Lutterell, of Opoliki, was lately entered in broad day light, while the owner was absent at his work, and a, number of things stolen therefrom, among which was £'\_ in notes, hidden iv an old hoot, which sto«d in an out of the way oorncr, among a number of its fellows, thus arguing intimate know ledge of tiie premises and the kabils of the occupier on the part of the thief. —" Bay of Plenty Times." At a meeting of the creditors of James Grace, Barter, the liabilities were stated to be t'l'rl, and assets nothing. A l iquid.ilitm. resolution was passed, and Mr Thomas-; Macfarlane appointed trustee. The tickets for the art union of fancy work, executed by the Misses Ten ten berg, arc being rapidly taken up, and the goods, which are mi view at Madame Nelson's establishment, Albeit buildings, (Juooii strcet, have been very much admired. The £50 Cashmere shawl has been withdrawn, and the number of members reduced at the request of many subscribers, to one hundred and fifty. The following excellent advice is givon by I)r Bruce, of Westminster Hospital: — Ablution is a subject of paramount im portance to health. The introducer of the Puckish bath is one of the benefactors of the age. Doctors are very much to blame for allowing themselves to be prejudiced against it. The usual opinion given by medical men to their patients is, that rt is debilitating, and only to be borne by the robust. The reverse is the case; it is stimulating and strengthening-—it is a preventative as -yell as a curative in disease. The effect of the Turkish bath On the skin is to cause an active condition of its functions of elimination, by removing the hardened opithelial scales, by removing the fat from the pores, and by causing the sweat glands to maintain Uie activity of their functions, giving a general stimulus to the vital power of the skin. Again, it keeps the body in a state of cleanliness, which is so essential to robust health ; but these are not its only virtues —it promotes purity of mind and morals. The man who is accustomed to be physically clean shrinks instinctively fr«m all contact with un cleanliness. A movement is on f»ot at Wairarapa to j establish a destitute persons' relief fund. We should have supposed that such a neces sity did not exist in the province of WeR liny-ton,

In our list of Justices at tho siting of the Court el Petty Sessions yesterday, the name of Dr. Goldsbro' was unintentionally omitted. Milk is threepence per quart at Gisborne. Theatre-goers are again reminded that the Theatre Royal will be re-oponod to-mor row evening by Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Hall and an excellent Company, when the now sensational drama of " Rose Michel" will I be produced. We learn that the committee appointed to select and purchase a site for the branch church, or eiiapcl-of-ease to St. Matthew's, have secured a site for the same in Union street, being part of the allotment in the occupation of John Waymouth, junr. The spot is exactly suitable for the purpose, being iv the centre- of a thickly populated . neighbourhood, and close to Freeman's Bay. t Mr Eyes, who figured some thnc ago in a great Marlborough scandal, met with an accident the other day at Opimake, sus taining a compound fracture of the leg. Leg 3 must be expensive in Wellington. ,S*.m<T time ago a coach in the province of Wellington was capsized in a gale of wind, and un ar^iitect named Toxward had his leg broken. He has sinco served the coach proprietor with a writ for £-,000 damages. Taking Mr Toxward's limbs all round at the same price he must be a very valuable piece of mechanism.

The first gambler mentioned in Scripture was Alpha. Alphabet—every ono knows it.—"Norwick Bulletin." Not so ! Didn't Adam find a par-a-dise in Eden long before ever Alpha bet a cent?—" Eureka Sen tinel."

Tickets for the Annual Diocesan Choral As sociation, to be held on the 30th inst., at St. Matthew's Church may had of the clergy or church-wardens of the several parishes connected with the association, viz., St. Matthew's, St. Paul's and St. St-pulchre's. A four oared racing cutter, built, by Salter, of Oxford, with sliding seats, and all the late im provements, was brought up by the Hawea from Christckurch this trip. Tire boat was imported for the Lyttelton Boat Club two years ago, but before It arrived, the club had broken up, and it has lain idle, almost ever since. We believe it is iiearTy certain that ft will be employed by an Auckland Provincial crew for the Nelson re gatta, at which a Champion Prize of £150 is offered. The cutter has been landed without in jury.

The Mammoth Diorama was exhibited for the fifth time last, evening in the Lornc-strcct Jlall, with equal success. We have previously re ferred to the scenes of this excellent diorama, which deserve theapplau.se they have invariably elicited from large audiences. Mr. Soarlc dis coursed upon them as they passed in succession with his wonted ability. The usual distribution of gifts followed, au<_ a great deal of fiui was created thereby. Wo have to inform our readers that the proprietors, at the earnest wish of a number of patrons, have consented to ex hibit the diorama for three more nights, Tho diorama will not be exhibited this evening in consequence of a bali, but will re-open on to-morrow. Friday, and Saturday evenings.

It ia notified elsewhere that the regular quarterly meeting of the Auckland District Court of'th . Ancient Order of Foresters will take place to-morrow (Thursday) evening, at the Albert Hotel. Queen-street, at f«ight o'clock.

On Friday evening, a magic lantern entertain ment in favour of two widows., Mrs Dj'QT and Mrs lleaton. will b., given at the Young Men « Christian Association, by Air. F. M. Ewington. Mr Jrnui Ilerapatl) will preside at Wie piano. The member-' of St. Matthew's Cricket Club arc requested to m,e,l to-morrow (Thursday) evening, in the school-room, adjoining tbe church, when important business in respect of tiV Club will be introduced. The Beresford-strcet annual Sunday-school entertainment was held la»t evening. The tea was of good quality, and placed before the friends in good taste by the ladies—Mesdamus Brown, Byrne. Holloway, Matthews. Gouk, und Cousins, and MJsses Edmonds. At kin. Barton, and Daldv. The hall was crowded with friends and visitors. The Rev. Wiiriow Davies, M.A.. presided, and offered up prayer. The pro gramme included an instrumental duett by Mrs. Kadv, Mr. Arthur Eudy, Mr. W. Moginic, and the Misses ilavlr-s. Mr. Cousins'!, performed with his well-known musical skill upon the concertina. Several recitations wore given. Buch res "The Whip on Fire," by Master Coutt. ; " The In-hcapc Hell," by Master Gouk ; " Ano molies of the English Language," br Master Dalies, and several hymns were sung in a spirited manner. Some magic lantern views were also shewn, to tbe intense, pleasure of the youngor portion of the assemblage. Mr. \\ . Baxter acted as barinoniinnist-, and Mr Brook field conducted the choir.

IvAIMAI appears destined to replace Ohine muri in the vivid imaginations of eager miners. There is intense agitation among the settlers of Tauranga who, aroused from the contemplation of pumpkins atid potatoes and Wrigley's beer, arc already dreaming of high-priced allotments, new townships, and diggers' money. But the Native ollicc has stepped in, aiid said " No." The Settlers' Committee und the local journal plainly charge that mysterious department with inlluencing the minds of chiefs, previously favourable, to turn prospectors oft* their lands. If Ohinemuri did not furnish instances of exactly parallel action, we might believe that this charge was the oft' spring of .'in excited state of public feeling ; but after the memorable telegram from Sir Donald McLean to Mr. O'Rorke, urging tin exorcise of all his influence with the news papers to stay agitation for the opening of Ohinemuri, as the Government did not wish to open the district, we see no reason for doubting that the charge made by Tauranga settlers is well founded. The rapid peopling of disaffected native districts would settle, more speedily than native otlice officials desire, that difficulty from whence their bread and cheese are. Tauranga litis always formed ;< hot-bed of native rebellion, and the location of a population of several thousands of people there would per manently dispose of the Last Coast trouble. This is "precisely what tii^ Native Office does not want, ami by keeping the lands shut up, the chronic " difficulty" has been successfully nursed/or the future support of that huge humbug. Meanwhile, .be indig nation of the settlers^ is rising hi audition heat, and, says a telegram, the Colonial Government man-of-war, Ringleader, with a full crew consisting of skipper and matt? lie in the hay, awing the little population into submission.

The San Francisco mail question has taken a new turn. The contractors, with the approval of the New South Wales Govern ment, propose the abandonment of Honolulu as a port-of-call. This would eitect a saving of time in the performance of the service, and, if it will reconcile New ttoath Wales to Auckland as the New Zealand port-of-call our (rovennnent might consent. Mr. Whitaker bus not yet made the promised statement of Cabinet views, but the people of Auckland look to him for a hrm resistance of the unreasonable demands and dictation of our sister colony.

CABLEGRAMS.

LATER AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

[PRESS TELEGRAM AGENCY]. SYDNEY, this day. SECOND COOK'S STRAITS CABLE

The cable steamer Agues has sailed for Wellington, hut it is understood will not attempt to Jay a second Cook's Straits cable till December.

PARLIAMENT SUMMONED FOR ' DECEMBER. Our parliament meets for despatch of business on tho 12th December.

THE KAIPARA RAILWAY.

(To tbe Editor of the l_vi.xixr; Star). Sik,—Will you oblige mc by publishing the cn closerl correspondence, in reference lo the exten sion of the Kaipara Railway. Yours, &c.

John Lamb,

Waitemata Mills, Oct. 25,187 G. [OOI'V.] Waitemata Mills, Oct. 10. 1876.

Sir, -I again take the liberty of addressing you regarding the extension of tho Kaipara railway. I.efnrr Ibis you will have Mr. Sinclair's report regarding flic land claims, and would you oblige by siuking what your intention is regarding tho Hue, as there, isa goo.l deal of anxiety about it. The engineer here is .surveying another line along the coast. This line, 1 do not know whether it, will be cheaper or nol, but there is ■ >nr- thing certain, thoro is no population on the fine, and ii is in my opinion away from where tin- tr.uiic will !v between tin..? and Auckland— and away from the Waitakere timber raiiges. The other line passes close to some millions of acres of timber, and through where the popula tion i*. and whni-~there is certain to be a con siderable revenue K«t from the U-attic. I feel bound to let you know this. I want to see the railway made, and 1 am certain it will pay if the projicr line is taken, which 1 consider is the one lirst surveyed. I am, sir. Your obedient servant, (Signed) Sows Lamb. The Hon. H. Richarsop, Minister for Public Works, Wellington. [oorv.] Public Works Otlice, Wellington, Oct. 17,15576. Sir,—l am directed by the Hon. the Minister for Public Works to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 10th instant, relative to the route of the ltiverhead and Auckland line, and in reply to state that the matter will be brought before Parliament, in a few days, when proba bly a decision will be arrived at. I have the honor to be, sir. Your obedient servant, (Signed) JouN KNOWLES, Under Secretary for Public Works.

THE BOMBARDMENT DESPATCHES.

SOUTHERN PAPERS GO FOB THE

MARQUIS

Tin: article in the "Otago Guardian" which Sir George Grey asked his Excellency Hie Governor to send to the Secretary of state, is a very caustic production. Its opening reference to the Mar quis of Norauuiby, is more expressive, -Jkan 1-olite: "As Major Atkinson," says the writer,

"assured the House that the Governor sends his despatches Home direct, without assistance from Ministers, we are bound to accept the statement, although we don't believe it. However, accept ing it, we must regard this as emanating from his Excellency, and we do him the compliment okaying tJiai he has more intellect und force of character than wc had given him credit for, or than he was credited within Queensland, where, strangely enough, he was regarded as flic most mediocre of all the men that had hold the guber natorial helm. His light has been hidden under a bushel, and the greatest injustice must have been done him by anyone who may have re garded him liitherto as a mere nincompoop. He says he is perfectly aware that it is hard to con vince Sir George Grey, that any/dicision oun be right which does not coincide with his own pre conceived opinion." But surely his Excellency could never have brought, liis own great intellect and diplomatic ability to bear on him who was called the "great pro-consul. It would have been exceedingly interesting to have witnessed the intellect*™,, conflict; for a man of the Mar quis' massive mind niust have fairly crushed the ox-Governor with.eoge*ncy of'argument, and with the weight. »f erudition and administrative power of which ho is posse-sod. His intimate acquaint ance with the election uM pafhwawtary tactics

of the Colony shows what an intelligent spectator the Governor has been; aud the emphasis and f rceful adjectives, and adverbs which he uses show how deep the interest he hus taken, des pite the Erroneous supposition of his subjects that his ideas wore merely such as give grace to agricultural dinner toasts and similar expositions of public policy. A MAN-OF-WAR SENTTO HOKITIKA7 That the employment of Imperial fofces; to ciu-11 popular excitement was not so ridiculous 2r without precedent as His .Excellency jad Ministerialists would now have us to bchev c is shown by the Timaru " Herald, which says. '•In 1368 the Olvll .power was placed at defiance 011 the West Goast on account of a very much smaller matter than this ot Abolition;. and tho first thing the Governor did, on theadvwe of.the Ministry, was W send a man-of-war to HokitiKa with a company of the 18th Foot cm board. We aro not aware that on that occasion Sir George Bowen " had entirely lost his senses when he required an officer in command of Her Majesty's ship to undertake this duty ; or that the officer was "equally mad" when he complied with the Governor's request. On a par with the whole tono of the despatch is tho uao made of a letter from a private person to tho Private Secretary, in which, by a direct breach of confidence, the autffor-hip oi the report about the men-of-war is attempted to tie fixed on Sir Gorge Grey. Who is Mr Dargaville, and what evidence is there that his narrative is no* a maliciou3 fabrication . \V c aro not disposed to give much credit to the sti'foments of one who i 3 so ready to seeretiy eom-iuini-ate tho particulars of a private con versation ; and we think it a matter for regret that the Governor should encourage such con duct If every underhand piece of stray mtor ination is to bo gravely embodied in a despatch, and accounted unto tho informer for righteous ness, the public business of tho colony will soon be in a sorry plight."

Siege of the Alexandra Hotel.

A BAILIFF HELD AS A HOSTAGE,

TIIKPvE is an old adage that "An English man's house is his castle," and Mr A. C. Pulleng, landlord of the Alexandra Hotel, has been, during the past few days, doing,, to use a Yankee phrase, " his level best to verify it. Mr A. C. Pulleng is a man possessed of a large amount of what the psychologists term " will-power." He has spent many years in roughing it on the West Coast, and is evidently up to a thing or two. About three years ago Mr Pulleng became enamoured of the business of cater ing for the votaries of Bacchus, and entered iuto possession of the Alexandra Hotel, at tho comer of Chapel and Durham-streets. Here he plied his calling, and supplied the wants of thirsty souls until about four months ago, when it became necessary for the license to be renewed. Seeing, how ever that there were only four months of the lease to run, and the license would be for twelve, it occurred to the mind of Mr. Pulleng that unless he secured a renewal of the lease, the specu lation might not prove such an entirely satisfactory investment as he desired. Ho accordingly held several interviews with Messrs McMillan and Sibbin, the acting trustees for Mrs Bevcridge, with the view of obtaining a prolongation of the lease. According to his own story this was promised, the life of Pulleng resumed the even tenor of its way, and Pulleng's soul was satisfied. THE FIRST CLOUD that darkened the bright future of Pulleng cam*, from the direction of Chancery-lane. The police mildly suggested that the Alexandra hotel required some outward renovation and adornment to render it strictly in keeping with the name, which appeared in large letters over tbe door, and glistened out under the light of the big lamp. Forth with Pulleng set artizans in motion, and in their skilful hands tho-.-Xlexa._dra became a tiling of beauty and a joy for ever. Again the horizon of Chapel-street brightened up, and Pulleng stood b.-hind his bar, radiant and smiling, in the midst of n goodly surrounding of refresh ments for the inner man. But anon, dark forebodings obtruded themselves in the soul of Pulleng. The renewed lease was not forthcoming^and to his grief and tribulation he learned that the place he loved so well had passed into the pos session of Mr Campbell, a dealer in lecteal fluid, who had doubtless conceived the notion of combining the two businesses, by making milk punch a special feature under tbe new regime. Mr Pulleng's' i anger was inflamed at the pros pect f>f an intruder establishing hiruscH in the hotel, and he RESOLVED TO RESIST THE INVADER WITH ALL HIS MIGHT. But first, as a precautionary measure, he removed a piano and some oilier trifles from the premises, and prepared, .ojmit the place into a proper state of defofi^c.- Then a new enemy appeared' brf' "the scene in the person of Mr Whitson, who put in an execution under a bill of stilo. Pulleng staggered under this new. blow, but he still bore up against adversity. WitJi the calm fortitude of desperation, he behold his Litres and Penates swept away by the vortex of an auction sale, but ho still clung with despairing fondness to his home. THE ENEMY IN SIGHT. " Then cam*, still evening on, and twilight grey Had in her sober livery all things clad." The sound of the auctioneer's hammer had died away, the throng of buyers had wended their way homewards, when Pulleng gazed sadly upon the naked walls, whore once had glistened in all the glory of coloured and gilt labels the various beverages which lie Mas wont to retail in days of yore. ( Uancing about him, Pulleng discovered that he was not alone. Three other persons were thci'v to sympathise with him in his bereavement. They were Mr Campbell and two bailiffs. These mildly, suggested to Pulleng that he had better bid a last sad adieu to the Alexandra, but he requested to be allowed to linger yet a little amidst those familiar scenes, and begged them to leave him alone for a space to meditate on the mutability of till worldly things. Mr Campbell an 4 one of his friends withdrew, leaving the other to console Mr Pulleng and to prevent hix feeling lonely. Then Pulleng locked and barred all the doors, shut up every avenue of ingress and egress, and resolved to die on the premises. Mr Campbell and his friend afterwards returned, and begged to be re-admitted, but Pulleng peeped out of tbe top of a window and in accents of deeji emotion protested again.ft any further intrusions into the pri vacy of his sanctuaries. A parley ensued, and a crowd gathered. Mr Campbell and his companion reconnoitred Hie fortress from all sides, but failed to discover a breach. They therefore retired to

HOLD A COUNCIL OF WAR, and to dovisc how the garrison, which consisted of.Mr Pulleng, his wife, and the neutral bailiff could bo induapdto capitulate. Mr Mowbray was selected as a herald to summon a surrender. He took up bis position under Hie window, and usod his persuasive eloquence to induce the garrison to evacuate the stronghold. To all his blandishments Mr Pulleng turned a doaf ear. The only terms of surrender which he would agree to were that a sum of £28 should be paid to him as an indemnity for the unexpired eight months of his license. Meautime Mr Mowbray was subjected to a fusilade of small chaff from a crowd of allies, mostly old women with babies in arms, who mustered under the walls and endeavoured to create a diversion. Then a rumour"went about that a forlorn hope, composed of bum-bailiffs, with a supporting b»dy of policemen, were

MUSTERING TO CARRY THE ALEX-

ANDRA BY STORM, whereat the crowd increased, but after waiting some time, the rumour turned out to be a false alarm. The next to arrive upon the scene Was Mr Alexander, solicitor, who made a calm survey of the fortification, and held a brief parley with the defenders, Mr. Pulleng calmly observing his move ments from an upper window,alid signalling his retreat by talcing what is technically known as "a lunar" at him.

FIRE WAS OPENED UPON THE GARRISON

with a Avrit of ejectment soon afterwards, whictfi Mr. Pulleng received with the cour tesies of war through a window, annoucs^ ing his willingness to receive any quaitEE^ of the same class.of missies. Mrs. PuK==jT also appeared at an upper window armed with a pair of tongs, and expressed a fer vent desire that one of the besiegers would essay to enter by that avenue. The shades of night closed on to the dire combat, and both sides rested on their arms. THE SIEGE RESUMED, This morning, the siege was continued. On reconnoitring the castle our reporter descried two bailiffi. named Iman Hart, aud Harry Mason, hovering on the left flank of the position with the view of sur prising the garrison at the first favourable opportunity. The magic password EVENING STAR, brought the commander's head out of a window, and an interview was the result. Mr Pulleng says his commissariat will stand a siege of eight or ton days, and beyond that he hopes to be victualled by small con voys thrown in by allies outside. He says in former days he'has often assisted some of the families in the neighbourhood and they will not suffer him to be starved out. He says ten days must elapse before the writ will be returnable, and four days more before the assault can be ordered, and mean time ho will have inflicted such severe financial lops upon the enemy that they will bo glad to come to terms, and pay him the indemnity of £'28. A RUSE D'GUERRE. At about half-past two o'clock this morning a cunning attempt was made to draw the garrison outside. Mr Campbell's bailiff, who remains in joint possession as a mjutral spectator, smoking his pipe, drinking lemonade, and absorbed in the " Last Days of Pompeii," suddenly alarmed tho garri son by a cry of "Fire 1" At the same time two persons outeide knocked loudly at the fjont door, and called out to the garrison to save their lives. But Commander Pulleng acted with the circumspection of an experienced general. He threw up the window, perceived that the fire was being extinguished by persons out side, and then in a firm voy.o announced his determination to DIE ON THE PREMISES. Detective Jeffery and Grace were soon on the ground and discovered that a few pieces of bag had been placed under the front of the house. The fire had not time to get hold. Mr Pulleng is confident that he saw two persons run away when the alarm was •riven in the direction of jAlbert-street. THE SITUATION.

The exact position of affairs at the pre sent moment is that MrPulleng wants to re main in the house. The bailiff in posses sion has no objection to remain also as long as he is guarauteod eight shillings a day, and the provisions last out, while two or three other persons outside are also exceedingly anxious to get in, but do not at present perceive how the thing is to be managed. Mr Whitson contends that the license is included in the bill of sale, but, of course, Mr Pulleng takes an entirely opposite view.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before A. Bcetham and George Donne,

Esqs., Justices.) HUMAN STUMBLERS.

Richard Cross, a modest looking young man, was picked up bust night in a state of drunkenness by Constable Gamble, and locked up. He pleaded guilty, and was fined 5s and costs.

William Elder, a siiftple looking lad from the ceuirtry, pleaded guilty tea similar oft'enco-.

The Bench said bhat it was a pity to see a young man in the health and vigour of life, like the prisoner, giving way to intemperate habits. As this was bis third offence within a few weeks, he must retire to Mount Eden for seven days with hard labour. "this TORMENTEB.

Martin Dwyer, a man in years, -was brought up on a charge of attempting to injure Margaret, his wife, with a "tor mentor," oil "fche 24th instant. Prisoner said he supposed he must plead guilty, as he was drfink and not master of his own actions.

Margaret Dwycr then stepped forward, and stated that her husband, was drunk yesterday, and while in that state, he threw himself on tho bed and fell into a deep slumber, mid did not forget to snore *to some tune. She was busy washing at the time, when all at. once Dwyer started . from tlfe bed, rushed towards the fireplace, y. oized the " tormentor" out of the boiling pot/ and struck her right and left on the hcad'until she was covered with blood, and fell. She knew no more until the return of consciousness, when a neighbour was sooth ing her, and bathing her face. Martin had laid down and was snoring again. The Bench : How long have you been married to the prisoner? Wife : Thirty years, your Worships. The Bench : Have you a family? Wife : Yes, a long one. To prisoner : What have you to say to this serious charge . Prisoner : Nothing. Mr. Donne : May I ask what is a '' Tormenter." Of course I understand the term in its common acceptation. Serjeant .Major Pardy here took up the court ruler, and explained that a tormenter was any thing that caused pain, as well as n person who oppressed and worried another; but in this case, it was a kind of pot-stick with which washerwomen stirred up then boiling clothes. Mrs Dwyer here rushed into Court with the veritable " tormenter " with which her husband had committed the outrage upon 4ier, exclaiming, " Here it is, your Worship, ami here is mv skirt covered with blood. •

The Bench was satisfied. Mrs Mann, who lived next door, heard the blows, and went to the rescue of the poor woman. The Bench said that there were several other convictions against prisoner. His wife who had lived with him for 30 years surely deserved better treatment at his hand, aud in order to give him time to reflect, he must go to prison for fourteen days, with hard labour.

This was all the business.

SUPREME COURT.—THIS DAY. IN BANCO.

Before his Honor Mr Justice Gillies. ADMISSIONS TO THE MAR. Mr. G. N. Brassey and Mr. M. R. Keesing, o» the application of Mr. Brookfield, were admitted to practice siS solicitors and barristers to tm Supreme Court of New Zealand. HARRISON V. O'.MKAKA. .If boMKXT SUMMONS. , Mr Hesketh, the plaintiff's solicitor, stated that the order made upon defendant, requiring him to appear, had nat been served, and here quested the case might be struck out. His Honor ordered tap case to be struck out. JCNE.3 AND WA-tE V. BROGDeNS. ■ Mr Hesketh Sot plaintiff aud Mr Buddie »r defendants. .. Mr Hesketh applied for an order en the arw* trator's ccrtitleate for judgment to bo entered up in this case. Mr Buddie requested an adjournment for a week, phuntiffs then to move to enter certificaw on record, _md to enter judgment. This was granted by his Honor. This was all the business.

OTAHUHU SOIREE.

Between two and three hundred people wer_ present at the Otahuhu Baud of Hope Soiree on Tuesday. The programme, which afforded uni versal satisfaction, vas as follows: (1) tyi*' Choir, " Some love to drink j" (2) Report rej m t Mr Higgins; (3) Song, solo, Mr Driver I 'Mm t logue; "3 Members of Society;" (5) SortjsSjjf f> " Sweet Spirit Hear my Prayer," Mrs Boui/, (6) Speech on Temperance by Mr Hemus; U) Glee, Choir; (8) Recitation, Miss Burke; (9) song, •' The Temperance Man," Mr Redfern; (10) Act, " On«a Tour," Mr Logan and Masters Whitinore. Cook, Absolum: (ID Song, By an Auckland Lady; (12) Glee, " Who is the Brave. Man, who f Local Choir. (13) Spech, Rev. Mr Watkins; U« Solo, "The Old Sesfcon." Mrs Tudehope; («> Recitative, Misses Goodwill; lOfi) Dialogue^

THE EVENING STAR, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 1876,



TWT O T I C E. In addition to their NEW SEASON'S STOCK of SPRING AND SUMMER DRAPERY GOODS, the undersigned are iiqw offering a number of SPECIAL LINES, at GREATLY RED COED PRICES:— Strong' White Calico, at 3/10 per doz. Grey Calico, /3i- per yard Crcwdson's Best White Calicos, an overstock, offciing Cheap, to reduce Splendid Value in Winceys, from /4 per yard Superior 30 in. wide ditto, /'.li yard, worth 1/2 Good Blue Dungaree, /8 por yard '.Mi in. Dcrry, brown and grey, /!H, best quabty New Japanese Silk, 1/ and 1/6 per yard Plain Blue Cloth, 60 in. wide, 1/6 per yard, half price Bine Diagonal Cloth, double width, 5/pcryard, half-price Melton Clsth. double width, 3/6 pea.- yard Waterproof Tweed, double width, 3/6 por yard Strong Tweed for Boys' Clothing, 1/11 yard White Blankets. 13/ per pak- Blue Blankets, 13/ v Grey Blankets, 0/6 White Turkish Towels, /ll Job lot Children's Brawn and Gi.y C«tton Sacks, ft'om /3 per pair. Other Goods equally Cheap. Inspection Invited. IIUSHBItOOK & 811 IDG MAN, (Lato It. Hobbs). JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, (Opposite Army and Navy Hotel), Upper Queen-street, Auckland. Thol-NtTinTsmith AND FIRTH'S PRICES CURRENT (Wholesale):— Sacks. IOOIbs- 601bs. £ s. d. £, s. d- & s. d. Crown Brand Flour, per ton 16 10 0 17 0 0 17 10 0 T. S. F. Canterbury Flour, ditto - - - 15 10 0 16 0 ft 16 10 0 Seconds ditto ditto - 13 0 0 feharpa, ditto - - - 810 0 Bran, ditto - - - - 7 0 0 *?^L^ lleat»P.»r bushel, ss. tos3."_d. i_\%%_yS&SSSSAt'^y^\ twma&k *<_W- Q^bXx IS7&



TjIURNITURE 1 FURNITURE / Ladies and Gentlemen about to Furnish are respect fully requested to inspect the Large Stock of DBA WING ■ ROOM, DINING -ROOM BEDROOM, AND GENERAL HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, In our New and Spacious Showrooms. T. & IL~COOKE S 67, QUEEN-STREET, Adjoining Bank of New Zealand.} (*\UR GREAT CLEARING SALE OP R E M N ANTS FROM THE STOCK OF R. W. DYSON, WILL CONTINUE TILL THE END OF THE WEEK! ! ! AW WONDERFUL BARGAINS "vTA WILL BE GIVEN. J. COSGRAVE & CO. ■vr 0 T I C E. OUR ESTABLISHMENT WILL BE CLOSED DURING THE WEEK, FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING STOCK, WITH A VIEW TO FINALLY" CLOSING THE BUSINESS. We beg to thank our numerous Customers for their support during the last 25 years, and shall feol obliged by all indebted to us settling their accounts witli the least possible delay. S. & J. R. V A I L E, 130 & 132, QUEEN-STREET. The Medical Profession have declared Steane's Superlative Aromatic Tonic Wine to bo a neecssitv to all in search of health, and especially to those suffering either from Incipient or Chronic Indigestion, Dyspepsia, and the dis orders arising therefrom. This Tonic is also particularly recommended to all who are in a measure compelled from the nuKire of their occupation to take stimulants, and at the samo time are desirous of studying health by taking that which will act most beneficially oh the system. Mr. Wm. JohnsonvGovernmcnt Analy tical Chemist, report: — "I have examined Steane's Superlative Aromatic Tonic Wine, and find it to bo remarkably pleasant in flavour, con taining about 16 per cent, of a very pure alcohol. and holding in solution a clear wholeHrrme. Vegetable Bitter, combined with a fruity epicy aroma. I consider this Bitter a very superior article."—Sold by all Storekeepers and Hotel kevpers. Mark Twain on Bad Musicians. — Ihe musical puWic and general readers are cautioned not to purchase Weston's Wizard Oil and Magic Pills without carefnlly examining tbe outside wrapper—and be sure that the words ' None Genuine without the Signature of the Proprietor. Frank Weston, Sydney, N.5.W.," are engraven thereon. Any other so-called preparations of mine, are unauthorized by me, and calculated te mislead the public—Signed, Frank Woston. Sole Agents: Kempthoi-ne, Prosscr and Co.— Price. Half-a-crown. A Genuine Source of Health.— I houannds Of invalids sock in vain year after year for some real source of health. They try one remedy after another until they, begin to despair of finding the much wished for object. Oh that some beacon coidd light these unfortunates groping in the dark to that genuine source of health, L dol pho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps, an unequalled speciflcfor diseases of thestomuch. bowels, and kidneys, and a matchless tonic and nervine.