SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

RTfTT watttr f This Afternoon, 7.57. HIGH \\ ArER- rro _ I)lon . owMorni 815 SUN SET.—This Evening, 6.4. SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning, 5.31. MOON'S AGE.—Last Quarter, 10th, 9.58 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Opotiki, cutter, from Opotiki

DEPARTURES.

bam Mendel, ship, for Melbourne Ro.sanah Rose, schooner, for Kaipara St. Kilda, s.s., for Wanganui, (from Onehunga) Bonnie Lass,schooner, for Wellington (from One hunga)

IMPORTS.

Per St. Kilda, from Wanganui:—7O head of cattle, 350 sheep.—Coombcs & Daldy, Ageats.

EXPORTS.

Per St. Kilda, for Wanganui:—B pkgs drapery, 31 boxes soap.—Coombes & Daldy, Agents. Per Llewellyn, for Sydney:—i bales flax.— Henderson & Slacfarlane.

THE BELLA MARY MISSING.

V, c regret, to have to state that considerable apprehension is felt for the safety of tho -well known barque Bella Mary, which loft this port for Hobart Town on the 23rd August last, although she did not get clear away for two or three days "afterwards. A telegram reached Messrs 11. S. Meyers and Co yesterday, saying that she lias not yet reached her .destination, and that no tidings had been received of her since leaving. At the date of the telegram being sent, she was 38 days out. There would not be so much anxiety felt were it not for the fact of last months gales proving so destructive to shipping between here and Aus tralia. The Bella Mary when she left here was in ballast, having only a few tons of cargo on board. She was in charge of our old friend Captain George MeArthur, and carried a crew all told of about a dozen hands. Mr and Airs Smith were passengers.

THE STEAMER MATAU.

More difficulty than expected appears to be experienced in getting otf Ihc steamer Matau, ashore near West.port. A. telegram received yesterday states that she was moved only ton feet up to that time, and was still high and dry at low water. With regard to this, the manager of t lie New Zealand insurance Co. received a telegram this afternoon from the Company's agent at West.port, who is superintending the float ing of the vessel. He reports that the lines of the p.s. Luna parted yesterday Just, as the Btranded boat, was coming off. He'was about to engage the services of the p.s. Lioness, a power ful steamer with heavier warps.

The s s Llewellyn tookthe following passengers for Sydney yesterday: Mr King, Mr and Mrs Garland and family, and 9 steerage Messrs Holmes Bros, are wanting tenders till the (jth insf. for relitting an ongine boiler and paAr of paddle wheels.

Tho barque Woodbine arrived at the Bay of Islands yesterday after a smart run of less.than 24 hours.

The s.s. Llewellyn took the following passen gers for Sydney yesterday. Mr King, Mr and Mrs Garland and family, and 9 steerage. The s.s. St Kilda loft Onehunga to-day for "\\ anganui.

The schooner Bonny Lass left Onehunga yes terday for Wellington.

The schoonor Nymphe has cleared for Russell in ballast.

The barque Loch Fergus cleared out to-day for Portland, Oregon, in ballast. The brigantine Wolloniai, has cleared to-day for Mongonui in ballast.

AUCKLAND STOCK AND MINING ASSOCIATION.

Bank of New Zealand—Buyers, £18 12s. 6d. South British Insurance—Buyers, 575. Cd. Union Sash and' Door Co.—Sellers, 60s (new) Palmerston—Buyers, :fe. ; sellers. 3s. 3d. - Crown Princess--Buyers, as.; sellers, os. \\ aitekauri—Sellers, 20s. Union -Sellers, M. Union Beach, CDs.; buyers, 575. Gd. Bank of England—Sellers, 2s Id.. Tairua (double)— Sellers. 19s. Red Queen, 2s. Gd. and 2s. 9d.: buyers, 2s. Gd. sellers, 2s. 9d.

JOSEPH NEWMAN, Chairman

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Uxder:— For Thames, to-morrow at 11.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m.

For Coronmndel. to-morrow, at 2.30 p ; m. For Tonga and Eva, per Clan Alpine, to-morrow at 11 a.m. For Napier and Gisborne, per Southern Cross, to-morrow, at 3 p.m. For Whitiangi, Tairaa, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowona, to-morrow at 1 p.m. For Taranaki, Southern provinces, and Austra lian Colonies, per Hawca, on Saturday ncxt,at S a.m. For Chatham Islands, per Omaha, on Saturday next, at For "Waiwcra, Mahurangi, Matakanr, Manga wai, Waipu, etc., per Anne Milbank, on Satur day next, at 10 a.m. For Napier, Gisborne, and Southern provinces, per Australia, four hours after arrival from Kandavu

Mails for India, China, Mediterranean ports, Continent of Europe, and United Kingdom via Suez and Southampton (fov letters specially ad dressed), and via Briddis* , will be made up per 5.3. I aupo on Monday, V ,th inst. WLN.B.—A Post-ofHcc h' tsbp.en opened at Kiuueo I'lat. Ilivcrhead. Moil' s w j]l be despatched every Monday and Y\ c dne 3 a ay anf i Friday at 10 a.m. Return mails will 0Q received every Tuesday, Thursday, and Satr irdav (Signed) S.. v. BISS, Cliief Postmaster.

""Where Shall we Look for It V wast ho question which the medical profession, in search of a reliable tonic stimulant, at one time ussd to ask itself. Tho answer came twenty-five years ago in the discovery of an invigorant and altera tive claimed to be perfectly pure, and an eradi cant of dyspepsia, urinary troubles, malarial disease, rlic amatisni,li ver disorders, and debility. Analysis disclosed its purity, and subsequent experiment demonstrated its complete efttcacy. It is called t'oon'iio Wolfe's Schiedam Aro matic SCUNVWPPS. n ,„„. The New Season Cod Liver Oil. 18/G.— Guaranteed i lerfectly pure and free from smell or unpleasant • flavour. The quality is especially fine. 2s. Gd. ;md ss. a bottle.—J. C. Siiauland, Apothecaries' Hall, opposite the Post-ofbee. Manning's Wokm Powders.—A sate and effectual Vei.anifuge. Prepared only by J. U Siiarland. Is. a packet.—Apothecaries Hall, opposite the : Post-ofHce. Mark Twain on Bad Musicians. - The musical public and general readers are cautioned not to purchrt.se Weston's Wizard Oil and Mauic Pills without carefnlly examining the outside wrapper—and be sure that the words ' None Genuine without thtf Signature of the Proprietor, Frank "VVeston, Syt?Jiey, N.5.W.," are engraven thereon. Any other so-called preparations ol mine, arc unauthorized by me, and calculated to mislead the public-Signed, Frank Weston. Sole Agents: Kempthornc, Prosscr and Co.—

Price, Half-a-crown

DEATH.

TURNER— On the Ith October, at bis residence, Parnell, Boniamin Turrx »r, oped SO years. The funeral will leave bis late residence at 3 o'clock to-morrow (Friday) afternoon. Friends are respectfully invited to1 attend.

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

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5, 1876.

l"or the cnuse that lacks assistance, l-"or tlio wronj{ that need;, rcsibtancc, l-'or tlit: future in tile distance, And the good that we can do.

Mr. MACANDREW has delivered his ulti matum to the Governor. "It appears," he says, " that no redress need be looked for at the hands of your Excellency's Govern ment ; it only remains now to appeal to the Imperial authorities, in the hope that what is understood to be the law of the Empire, will be maintained." This is strong lan guage from a subject, addressed to the representative of Royalty. It plainly intimates that, in the opinion of the Superintendent of Otago, the Governor, acting under his advisers, lias been guilty of a violation of the law of the Empire, and that the subjects of the Queen have appealed in vain against his wrong-doing. There is no mincing of terms here. But Mr. Macandrew goes further; lie declares that lie knows that the action of the Government will lead to the dismember ment of the colony, adding that were it not for the law-abiding character of the people of Otago, and their loyalty to the Queen, "this determination ere now would have manifested itself in more decided action." In other words, that the people of Otago would have severed with violence a con nection which has become hateful to them. Mr. Macandrew has now thrown down the gage of battle ; his trumpet has given forth no uncertain sound ; and the Colonial Government may prepare i or a bitter resis tance of their authority at that critical stage when Abolition takes practical effect. We could wish that some broader policy than the preservation of a moribund pro vincialism, were defined as the issue to be fought out; but the legislature, with the high hand of a majority, in rejecting Separation, has let the opportunity pass when true local self-government might have been embodied in a form more acceptable' to both the large pro vinces of the colony. With our present information*, we find it difficulty to discover in the maintenance of Provincialism in Ofvigo, without any financial adjustment, ;i specific for the disabilities under which this province labours. If successful in re tainin"' possession of the large laud revenue, the Superintendent and Council of Otago might carry on the business of the province as they have done heretofore, without laying violent hands on the

Custom-house ; but the revenues of Auck land are wholly at the mercy of the General Government. We have little doubt, how ever, that some understanding exists between Sir George. Grey and Mr Mac andrcw, relative to the measure and character of that resistance which, by virtue of their offices as Superintendents, they will oiler to the consummation of the Abolition Act. Sir George Grey last week, in speaking upon the billextendingprovincial appropriations till the end of the year said :—" I think I understood the Hon. the Premier to say that the provinces would cease to exist at the end of the session." The Premier thereupon repeated his words " that the Abolition Act would then come into force," when Sir George said: —"I assert to this House that nothing of the kind will take place. As I am advised, the Courts will not allow anything of the kind. I believe that the Abolition Act is ultra vires ; I have no doubt whatever of that. I have no doubt that it was wrongfully obtained, and, as I shall resist by every means in my power, the abolition of the provinces, a very considerable time must elapse, before the question can be de cided. I am assured that the Govern ment have no power to oust me from the office of Superintendent, unless the Provincial Council pass an Act for the purpose. lam convinced that L can resist the Act successfully, and that it is of no more value than the piece of paper which 1 hold in my hand." At a subsequent'stage of the discussion, the Hon. Major Atkinson replied that it was not meant to extend the powers of Superintendent an hour after the Act came into force, and referring to the remarks of Sir George, said "he would most probably Jincl that the Government wen: not wanting in power under the Act, but, of course, if he wanted to fight the question in a constitutional way, none would object to bin exercise of the ordinary privileges of an Englishmen." The position throughout is an extroiuly complicated one, and we see an endless series of difficulties, continued agitation, and strong dissatisfac tion, lying in the path of New Zealand for many years to come.

A correspondent under the signature of " Korero A rob a" sends in the following upon the death of the late Mr Edward Davis, who was one of I lie oldest native interpreters in New Zealand, having acted in that capacity to Baron De Thierry on his arrival in 1837: —"The late JNJr Edward Davis, who lias just died at Coromandcl, on Tuesday last, was one of {hose early settlers whose memory will always be in the recol lection of the old colonists. After an cud less illness of coughing brought on by severe exposure to cold his sickness assumed differ ent stages, and at last carried him from this world of woe. Time and distance hindered a large number of his friends from assembl ing around bis dying bed. When his toils and sorrows closed for ever, he lias found a deliverer. He lives in Christ, content and happy.- " The Lord givetli, and the Lord taketh away."—KoitKßO Aroha."

We have to acknowledge the receipt from S.D. of tlio sum of 5s for Mrs Kenton, whose distressing case was referred to in ;i letter signed "Homo" in these columns yester day. Any further contributions towards the same worthy object will he welcome.

We would remind ratepayers that all city rates must bo paid at the offices of the Council forthwith to avoid further expense. The rates being collected half-yearly instead of yearly heretofore, necessitates the en forcement of payment punctually. The notices for payment of second half-yearly collection being issuable in December.

At the 11.M., Court, Onehunga, yes terday, Hugh liea, who was brought bade from Nelson on a charge of selling whiskey without a license, was sentenced under the two previous convictions to three months imprisonment with hard labor for each offence.

The annual dinner of the Pakurnnga Hunt Club will take place at the Criterion Hotel, Otahulm, at 6.30 o'clock to-morrow even ing.

During the month ending September, 187(), there were 13 deaths registered within the city of Auckland ; the number during the corresponding month of 1875 were 18 deaths. For 187(>" : under 1 year, 5 deaths ; under 5 years, 2 deaths ; under 20 years, 2 deaths ; under 50 years, 1 death; over 50 years, 3 deaths : total, 1."! deaths. For 1875 : under 1 year, 3 deaths ; under 5 years, 2 deaths ; under 20 years, 0 deaths; under 50 years, 8 deaths ; over 50 years, 5 deaths: total, 18 deaths. There were 12 deaths in the Hospital during the month of September 1876.—GE0. Goldie, Sanitary Inspector.

" Umpire "sends a final shot on the Sunday-school Exhibition question, in which he expresses the opinion that nothing said has tended to convince him "why the children should be clone out of their prizes, and be bamboozled (excuse the word) with card-board certificates (which to them are of no value) instead." He also expresses doubts whether small boys andgirls appre ciate or comprehend line principles, or see the good of them, and cites an instance where the certificate was handed to a baby as a plaything. We think our correspondent has altogether mistaken the spirit of these exhibitions. The workers enter upon their task quite voluntarily, and we have no doubt they derive genuine pleasure from the feeling that they are personally as sociated with the success of such an. undertaking, and from seeing their handi work admired by a large assemblage. The articles remain their own property, so that they lose nothing, Avhile helping on a good cause. At best, the paltry primus which it might 1)0 in the power of the committee to offer, would not materially benefit the recipients, and the circular announcing the exhibition distinctly specifies that "no prizes will be given."

The animal meeting of the Graftou Cricket Club will be held this evening, in the district school room, at half-past seven o'clock.

We have heard much of the blessings of economy which were to flow from abolition. The country Avas asked to look to abolition for saving of £30,000 a year, but the first effect of the ucav policy is to devote some £](>,OOO of this vaunted saving to the extra payment of members.

It Il'ik been agreed on a motion by Mr. Swanson that the papers in connection with the inquiry into certain charges made by Sergeant Craig against Captain Howe, Waikato Engineer Militia, which were com mented upon in the STAR, be printed.

The quarterly meeting of the Royal Standard Lodge'of the Free Templar .Sick and General Benefit Society will be held this evening, in the lodge room, Nelson street.

The notorious John McLaren, of Dune din, who was bundled off a table at a recent political meeting, has prepared an address in foolscap, which ho intends to present to Sir Julius Vogel as a valedictory mark of esteem. The address bears eight signatures, among which is that of " Chin Ohm." We are not, aware whether or not the public have their eye on John.

ft must, be a convenience to the Lords occasionally to have; a medical man amongst them. The other day the Hon. Dr. Grace was able to inform the anxious Councillors that his patient, Dr. Pollen, was recovering from his illness.

It appears from a statement made in the Upper House l>y the Hon. J. Hall, that the sum of £1,200 had been paid to the Ac countant in Bankruptcy from 1873 to IS7~>, lu'in.H" the cost of the administration by oilicial trustee? of 7."5!) bankrupt estates.

An indication that summer is now really upon us is shown by the meetings of the various Cricket Clubs. 'Tins and other out-door sports ought to lie well supported both by young men as working, and their elders as honorary members, seeing tliai if sucli sports are freely indulged in, it lakes away all desire for billiards, etc., which necessitate late hours and visiting scenes very detrimental to the morals of those frequenting them. As will lie seen by advertisement, the West End Cricket Club will hold their opening meeting at the Young Men's Rooms this evening at 7.'.ML

The treasurer of the Home for Neglected and Destitute Children begs to acknowledge with thanks the following donations and collections :- -Liile Mrs Godly's legacy per Mr 11 ill, Esq., £43 ;D. M. Here, Esq., IT. ; per " New Zealand Herald," £20: Holmes IJros., per KVENJXfi STAIt, '21s; .J. Whyte, per KVKXINO StAI!, 20s; .J. I>. Russell's Court fee, towards harmonium fund, 21s; collected at North Shore by Mrs P. A. Phil lips, £7 7s, being the. second instalment of a total of £](>' collected by (his lady. Donors names will appear in animal statement.

Mr F. (I. Kwinglon has called and in formed :y^ that lie has enquired into flic melancholy case referred to by " Homo," in our issue of Just evening, and lie finds that there is no necessity for lavish contributions

- a little continuous help for a short time is all that Mis Keaton desires or expect*. The licv. If. S. llassard, and his wife, as one ol the ladies of the Benevolent Society, have been attending to Mrs Keaton's wants since the dentil of her child, and the illness of her husband, and it is (bought very desirable that any contributions intended for Mrs Keaton should be sent to Mrs llassard. Mrs Keaton is near her confinement, and says that if she gets some assistance towards paying her rent for a few weeks she will afterwards be able to manage, for she is getting rations from the Relieving OHicer, and help from the Benevolent Society Mr Ewington informs us that lie will, next week, arrange an entertainment in the city, in aid of Mrs Keaton and Mrs Dyer. We trust his philanthropic ellorls will bo liber ally seconded.

t'aeroa has been selected as a telegraph station at Ohinenmri.

At a meeting of the Acclimatization Society, held at 4 o'clock yesterday after noon, the accounts shewed a balance in bank of £413 13s lOd. Mr Kirlh, (he chairman, reported that the lish-honse in Liv; Domain had boon completed, and that 250,001) salmon ova were expected to arrive next month, which would In-, distributed in Auckland, Ohristehureh, Swanson's Creek, Wairoa, Mamikan, Waikato, Tliamcs, and other rivers.

After we closed our report, of the proceed ings of the Presbytery yesterday Mr J. Mark, who has been for some time a lay, preacher at Kntikati, was ordained to the work of flic ministry. Rev, .J. Mil] was ap pointed to organize the congregation at that place, and to make inquiries as to the desir ability of forming ;i Presbyterian Congrega tion at Tnuranga. It was staled that the General Assembly of the church will meet in Auckland on the second Wednesday in January, and a, .Student's Assembly will be held on the day previous.

The Licensed Victuallers <>f Auckland liiive lately received an accession to their raulcs in the person of it. gentleman formerly connected with the " Waikato Times. Tli is is not the .lirst occasion on "which a votary of the in uses lias transferred liis affections to Bacchus, and vice versa. The name of the hotel opened by this enter prising gentleman is the Cottage of Content, a name which is significant of the " otiuui cum dig " which he hopes to find in his new sphere.

A Wellington telegram states that C. E. Haughtou, whose acquittal was announced in our telegrams yesterday, will probably retire into private life.

I Mr. Joseph Williams, tailor, has com r mciiccd business in Victoriji-street, opposite the Cottage of Content. Mr. Williams lias had twenty years experience as a cutter ami fitter in the best houses in London, and begins with a large stock of spring and summer goods. We recommend those who desire a good fit, of the best material, at reason bale rates, to give iliem a trial. There is nothing like the march of intellect. Throe hundred ladies and gentle men recently dined at the Crystal Palace at a guinea a. ticket, and no alcoholic drinks were supplied.

A discussion recently took place in the House of Representatives on the inconvenience arising from the same name being given to to several places. There are three TTavclocks in New Zealand, and several Palmerstons.

The introduction of the Postal Card system in New South Wales lias increased the Postal revenue by 0 a year.

The Lyttelton " Times"Jprotcsts against the proposal to entrust the raising of future loans to Sir Julius Vogel on the ground that lie has openly avowed his intention of merely making a convenience of the office for a year or two. It is said that the number of dis missals in the Public Works Department will exceed one hundred. There is grief and tribulation in Wellington, and one hundred landladies are preparing to put up '' Board and residence for a single gentle - man." Some months ago it was ascertained that the jarrah piles used in the construction of the Mangare bridge had been injured by the attacks of the teredo navalis, and doubts were expressed as to whether or not the timber was the true jarrah. Some of the worm-cater specimens were forwarded to the Government of Western Australia for exam ination. Mr. J. A. Thomas Government Engineer at Perth, reports that the speci mens are the true jarrah wood, but they (the insects) have only penetrated the sap, and will go no further, unless the heart of the timber has been exposed ill squaring. Be recommends the 'use of round timbers for piles. It is understood that Parliament Avill be asked to vote a bonus of £50 to each of the " Hansard " reporters, as a compensation for the extra length of the session. The annual of, the members of the North Shore Rowing Club, was held lastevoiing in the Masonic Hotel, Devon port. Mr Burgess read the minutes, report, and Balance sheet. The latter shewed receipts £77 Us (id ; expenses £74. 11s, balance to good £3 Os G'd. The club con sists of 28 members, and five Avere added last night, making '33 members. Tlie following officers were elected for the neAV year :—President, Mr Malcolm Niccol, Vice president, Mr C. Hill; Secretary, Mr E. W. Burgess ; Treasurer, Mr B. Turner ; Cap tain, Mr Trevarthen. A committee was also appointed to ascertain the cost of a new in-rigged gig. It was decided to take part in the opening procession of the Auck land Club on the 24th inst. A. vote of thanks closed the meeting.

To the Editor: Sir,—Will you inform me whether after running in the Birthday Cup at Ellerslie, a competitor would be considered an amateur or a professional by the New Zealand Athletic, llulcs, or General Athletic Rules, and oblige yours. — IGNORAMUS. [By the Home rules, lie would be considered a, professional, but in New Zealand, or at any rate in this part of the colony, no clear line of distinction, ho far as we know, between amateurs and pro fessionals has yet been drawn.—[Ed E.S.] A soiree and concert will be held this evening in the Devonport Hall North .Shore, for the beneiit of the Trinity Church .Sunday-school. The programme, which appears in this journal, promises a, number of choice musical selections, duets, glees, solos, and ballads, by ladies and gentlemen, such as " Since first 1 saw your face," " Hail, smiling Morn," " Ye shepherds tell me," and others of si, like tender nature. Should (lie evening be favorable, the hall will doubtless be crowded.

The funeral of the late Sergeant Elliott, of the Armed Constabulary, took place tliis afternoon. The cortege started from tin' Barracks, the body having been brought down from the hospital during the morning. Nearly the whole of the force on duty in .Auckland followed deceased to the grave, which was in the Church of England Ceme tery. Mr Hay ward conducted the arrange ments. We are pleased to learn that Captain Walmsley has been successful in lining up th<! subscription list of the thoroughbred entire Kevo, which will now stand at, Surrey Hills for the season. It would have been a great pity had the province lost the services of an animal so well calculated to improve the breed of our horses. The matron of the Old Womans' Home; desires to acknowledge with thanks through the medium <>f the Star the following gifts sent for the use of the inmates :—-Mr Som erville, eggs, jam, wool-caps ; Mr Gillies, eggs, jelly, and oranges ; Mrs .J. McC. Clark, eggs, potatoes, and jam ; Mr Dorn well, sausages; Mr Ellison, slippers; Mr Dickson, fish ; Mr White, red herrings (tin); Mr Arthur, eggs, and sundry puddings. An anonymous donor from Parnell, eggs.

One of the glaring absurdities of the system of oilicial inquiries known as coronyrs1 inquests is the .utter blindness of the official eye to many culpable acts of gross careless ness leading to accidents endangering, or perchance almost terminating in the loss of human life. The subject of a sudden deatli from natural causes, or victim of any clearly unavoidable accident, is deemed a proper case to be sat upon by a coroner and twelve intelligent fellow-countrymen, but two locomotives can be set careening full smash against each other on one line to the danger of several lives, without the slightest cognizance being taken of the occurrence. , If there is any sound reason why an inquiry should bu held to determine the question of negligence where lile has actually been lost. surely the same arguments hold good where acts of prime facie carelessness, have imperilled human life. The late accident on the Mercer line, is one that specially demands an inquiry. The traffic on the line is not such as should, with the exercise of ordinary care, involve any risk of collision. But here we have a case where a locomotive was set loose on the line, apparently without any proper safeguard against disaster. Providentially the accident which did Jesuit, was attended with comparatively little injury, lint, the possibility of such an occurrence leads to an uncomfortable sen sation in the minds of those who indulge in railway travelling. The case, is certainly one that demands sonic investigation, and in. the interests of public safety we hope to see an inquiry ordered by the Government.

TllK asperities of hot debate are, happily for the preservation of legislative good humour, often .softened by lighter passages of arms. The bark of a representative, like that of some other ferocious animals, is usually a good deal "worse than his bite, and the interposition of chall'amid a torrent of invective, makes the pages of. "Hansard" quite interesting reading. In number 26, just to hand, for example, we discover in a very fervid oration by Mr Wakefield, the following morceau of genuine humour, ■which shews that the member for Gcraldine can besomethiug more than abusive. He had been interrupted in thecourse of his remarks by a "No ! no !" from Mr Whitaker, and thus retaliated:—" 1 never knew any one so touchy at interruptions as the lost Mastcr-Cieneral, and yet who is so anxious to interrupt other honorable members. When he puts his eyes upon an honorable member, it is quite out of the question for that honorable member t<> carry <>n bis argument. There is some mesmerism about him when he puts his glass in bis eye, looks fixedly at you, and says, " No, no." You are bound "to turn to him, and contemplate him for a few moments ; and however agreeable it may be under other circum stances, still in the How of argument it is most unpleasant."

PONSONBY HIGHWAY BOARD.

To the Editor of the Kvkxing Stak. iSiii.—With reference toyourrcmnrksin issue of last evening, relative to I'onsonhy Board matters, and your suggestions of compromise [ wish to state that in the interests of the district the following oiler was submit led and declined :—" That three out of live trustees who have assumed ollicc do resign, one of those left to be chairman. A meet ing of ratepayers he convened to supply vacancies, those retiring to be eligible for re-elect ion." This oiler was, in my opinion, a fair one, and should have been accepthd. Proceeding-; will terminate when the case is judged upon its merits in the K.M. Court. ----Yours, etc., THOMAS T. MASBI'IIiLD.

SUPREME COURT.-YESTERDAY.

CRIMINAL SITTINGS

(Before His Honor Mr Justice Gillies). William Collins and Osborne 11. Uloth, charged with stealing on the iHh July, the sum of Cfi.'iO, from a box, the property of Dr. Vincent Mohabeer, "were found guilty and sentenced l:o one year's imprisonment each with bard labour. The evidence in (his case appeared in our last issue. KILLING A BHEKP. llauieratc Heuhcu was arraigned upon tin indicment charging him with killing a sheep, on the Ist August, in or near Gisborne, the property of Alexander C. Arthur, of that district. The prisoner, a youth, pleaded not guilty. Mr MacConnick defended the prisoner. Mr. Arthur, on being sworn deposed to the facts, which were simply these. On the afternoon of the Ist August, Mr Arthur saw the p isoner with two boys, who set two dogs on to a sheep which they drove into a gully. Witness followed them, and when within ten yards of the spot, saw the prisoner distinctly stick the sheep with a knife. He ran up and caught hold of prisoner, "who said " All right Arthur, take my piece of land." Witness took him to the nearest settlement and gave him in charge. After some other corroborative evidence as to the prisoner's guilt, which' prisoner strongly denied, his Honor, on account of his youth, sentenced the prisoner to two months imprisonment. This case closed the calender of the session, and the court adjourned until the 23rd instant.

ALARM OF FIRE IN EDEN CRESCENT.

At half past two o'clock this morning the Princes-street fire-bell Ring out noisily, and in a few seconds was answered by other fire bells, which disturbed hundreds of citzens on their downy pillows. At ten minutes to three, no less than three hundred persons were scampering up Shortland-strcet, several of whom were crying "lire" to the alarm of the waking neighbours. The moon was shining brightly at the time, and sky. and water seemed' motionless and serene. The fishmongers were running about in their shirt sleeves, several canaries, next to the Provincial offices, burst forth into song, and a number of Shortland sfreet babies were heard screaming after their mamma's, who had left them cold in, bed, while they ran out to see where the lire was. Mr John Mason was there with his powerful stick, waving it in the still moonlight. Mr Fernandez first discovered the sign of fire, and be with a number of jack tars were buzzing around the spot in. Eden Crescent, The iire-brigacte presently

arrived, under the superintendence of Mr Hughes, and it Avas heavy work, dragging the engine up the hill, but before then arrival %he fire was out. The lire, such as it was, broke out in a small shed on the premises of Mr Isaac Phillips, in which a lire had been kindled during the day, and atnight had not been properly extinguished. By ten minutes past three the last footstep was heard to die aAVay in the distance, and peace was restored.

DEATH OF MR. BEN. TURNER.

" In the midst of life we are in death," says the proverb. Little did we suppose, when, on the 24th of April, last, we published m the STAR an anti-obituary notice of Mr Ben jamin Turner, who was then in the enjoy ment of good health, that it would so soon devolve upon us to chronicle his death. On that occasion we gave a description of the tombstone which the eccentric old gentle man had erected for himself, in anticipation of the moment when the grim messenger should summon him away from a Avorld in which he had spent eighty years of a chec quered and remarkable life. On that occasion he had driven in a carriage to St. Mark's Churchyard to inspect the very tombstone under which, according to an announcement which appears in our obituary column, all that is mortal of him Avill be laid to-morrow, and doubtless the admonitions which come at his advanced age warned him to be pre pared for his approaching end. He con tinued in bis usual health, however, until about a fortnight ago when he was attacked with a functional disorder which necessi tated an operation by Drs. Stockwell and Young, which was successfully performed. Mr Turner was a good deal weakened, and he continued to lose strength gradually until it became apparent that his end was ni"h. He, however, retained his conscious ness to the last, and was cheerfully resigned to the inevitable. He was confined to his bed, and yesterday morning lost the power of speech. He' died peacefully at ten minutes to ten o'clock last night, attended to the last by his son, Mr George Turner. His last words were, " 1 am perfectly happy, and ready to meet death Avhen it comes." So calm was his taking off that his son was hardly able to realize the fact that the soul had lied. The deceased gentleman leaves eight surviving relatives, live of whom are married. He made a Avill bequeathing con siderable property to his heirs. It may not be out of place to give a short biography of one who was lately perhaps the oldest living settler in Auckland. He Avas born in Worcester, in 1796", and Avas therefore already a youth when Nelson's great naval victories Avere Avon, Avhen Wellesley Avas winning his way to the final triumph' at Waterloo, which overthrew a dynasty. He saw the throne of Great Britain and Ireland occupied by four sove reigns. He left his native toAvn 56 years ago, and entered on the adventurous life of a whaler, in which capacity he came to New Zealand in 1822. The vessel was Avrecked at Chalky Island, a small island close to Stewart's Island, upon which Mr Turner was afterwards engaged in the sealing and whaling trade for several years. Be tween 1827 and 1830 lie made several trips to the North Island, and resided for a short time in Wellington, where lie was engaged in the timber trade. Then he removed to Kapiti Island, where he was a spectator of the famous expeditions of the cannibal warrior, Te Rauparaha. It was there that lie narrowly escaped becoming a meal for the Maoris, two of his European mates being killed and eaten. Probably it was the old man's well-known toughness that saved him. Mr Turner afterwards travelled overland from Wanganui to the East Coast, through the heart of the tribes then at Avar, and he lived for a short time in the Tauranga district. 11l 1832 he removed to Kororareka, where he erected saw mills, and owned A'esscls trading to Sydney. The lawlessness of the rude adventurers avlio formed the population of the Bay at this time necessitated the formation of a Vigilance Committee, of which he was chairman, find for some time a species of rough - and - ready, but very efficient system of justice was meted out. In those days there was no overshadowing NatiA'e Department, and the committee used to summarily inllict punishment upon Maoris who offended British dignity. Then the natives trusted and respected the Pakeha. Mr Turner was mainly instru mental in the capture of Manuka, the mur derer of the Robertson family. In later years Mr Turner prospered by supplying the troops. In 1845 his property was burned in Hoani Heke's raid on Kororareka. Mr Turner afterwards removed to Auckland, where he has since lived upon an income principally derived from rents. We append a fat! simile of the tombstone which the eccentric, but provident old gentleman erected, in anticipation of his death, and as the obituary was penned by himself .some six months ago, and he has not since seen reason to alter it, all that is necessary is to fill up the blanks, which any handy man, with a chisel and hammer, can do in a few minutes. In Kind Rcmcmberance of Benjamin Evans Turner, of Newmarket, "Who departed this life on , IS—, Aged — years. Born 23rd March, 17flG. in the parish of St. Clements, Worcester, England, and interred at St. Mark's Church, ileniuera, " O, my blessed Lord, in thy kind arms I fall, a wretched poor and helpless worm."

PARLIAMENTARY.

[PKESS TELEGKAM AGENCY].

LAST NIGHT,

This day

COUNTIES BILL IN COMMITTEE.

The House resumed at 7.30 on the schedules of the Counties Bill, and all the counties were passed until coming to the first of the Otago counties (Waitaki) when Mr lieid moved as an amendment that Southland and Wallace remain as two counties, but that all the rest of Otago lie the county of Otago, and that all the coun ties laid out in the schedule, be called riflings. This led to ;i long discussion amongst the Otago members. A division being taken, the amendment was lost by 86* against 23. On coming to the Molyneux county, Mr Thomson proposed the name be ehanyed to Vincent county, this wus car ried on a division, by 27 to 22. Mr Stout then moved, it be 'called Vincent Pykc county. This wass lost by 31 against 19. The name of Lakeland county was amended to Lake country. A discussion arose as to the Matawa. watershed with regard to South land County, it being added to Clutha County on a division by 2(! against 12. Stewart Island, Rnapuke, and the adjacent islands on the motion of Mr Stout were con stituted new Counties. King's County and Stewart's Island Counts were added to the second schedule. Schedules 3to 9 inclvsive were agreed to. The bill was reported, and the amendments ordered to be considered on Friday. ATTORNEY GENERAL'S BILL. Mr Whitakcr moved the second reading of the Attorney Generals's Bill, and gave a slight sketch of the tenure of the ollice of Attorney General since the creation of the Office, He said that the time had come

= 4» Avhen a change should be made. The bill, he explained, allowed the office to be political or not political as the case might be. Mr Reynolds opposed the bill. He was bound to say from his experience that political Attorney Generals gave j opinions in accordance Avith their politics. Mr Moorhouse could understand an Attorney-General being a partisan and a keen political opponent, but could not understand him risking his reputation by giving bad IaAV. The bill Avas read a second time' PUBLIC HEALTH BILL. Mr Whitaker moved the second reading of the Public Health Bill, but objection was taken to going on Avith the Bill this session. Mr Stout took the same view, and moA^ed it be read that day month. Sheehan and Hunter strongly supported the going on with the Bill, which, as Mr BoAven explained, had already received a good deal of consideration in the other House, and Avas a measure that had been before the House before. After some discussion, the Bill Avas read a second time. Tanneries Avere classed as offensive trades,' This was the only amendment made in the Avhole Bill of 163 clauses. It went through, and passed. The House adjourned at 145 a.m.

THE FANCY BALL.

A FANCY dress brll is always an event in a small community, and generally affords topics of conversation in the drawing-room and boudoir, and veil tlie clubs for some time previously, 'l^e affair of last night was no exception to tli.i rule, and created no small stir beforehand throughout the length and breadth of. the city and suburbs. Numerous were the animated little discus sion parties, at which the fair debaters weighed with legislative seriousness the question of what costumes they should adopt, and with charming indifference to papa's or "hubby's" pocket, made their " dear " selections. The ball was given as the winding up of the Auckland Skating Club season, and was under the auspices of ; that institution. It was a great success, ' both in point of attendance, and complete ness, the costumes were exceedingly well devised and varied, and in many instances appropriately sustained, although some ludicrous examples of the contrary might be cited. It speaks well for the originality of the ladies of Auckland, that there was not a single " Mary Queen of Scots," pre sent, whereas at fancy balls as a rule, half a-dozen are to be seen. One of the best costumes was "The News of the Day," adopted by Mrs E. Isaacs, who wore a dress of white satin, on which were printed title pages of the EVENING STAE, " New Zea land Herald," "Daily Southern Cross," "Weekly Herald," "Weekly News," and "Saturday Night." Shakespeare, the Waverley Novels, Byron, and the Opera were the most favored sources from whence the characters assumed were taken ; one gentleman, despairing perhaps of finding anything -to suit him on earth or in heaven, had descended to the depths of Hades, and came forth as the monarch of darkness. Angels and fairy forms were present in great numbers, but it would be invidious to name those avlio could fairly lay claim to these characters. From eight o'clock to half-past ten, the arrivals were continuous, till the hall was all but incon veniently full. The first two hours were occupied in linking, at wljich great profici ency was shown by a large number of ladies ami gentlemen. 'The dancing then began, and was carried on till an early hour this morning. Mr J. McCosh Clark made an efficient M.C. Mr Wrights splendid band supplied excellent music, and Mr Impey gave general satisfaction by his well arranged catering. The committee have every rcasou to be well pleased with the success of their ball.

We append the names of the ladies and gentlemen present, Avith the characters in which they appeared : — Mr J. E. Allen—Color-Sergeant H.Ms. SOth Foot; Miss Mary Alexander—Morning Dew ; Mr Alexander Aitken—Australian Stock Driver; Miss Aitken—Winter; Miss Andrews—Lady Jane's Attendant. Mr Brassey—Gunner's mate: Mr J. S. Buck land—Don Juan; Miss Buckland—Fraiihen Alexia (an Alsatian peasant girl; Miss Bell—A Lady of the 19th <century; Miss Bruckenbury— A Lady of the 10th century ; Mr A. Bcrrill—Sir Peter' Teazle; Mr Frederic W. Brookneld— Evening dress : Miss Banks—Conundrum ; Mrs BarstoAv—Evening dress: Miss Bartley— Archery dress; Sir J. Barstow—Norwegian peasant: Miss Barstow—Neapolitan Flower Girl; Miss Bcvcridge—Flower Girl; Miss Blanche Bxickland—Aztucne ;■ Mr J. A. Beale—

A Barrister; Miss Brookneld—Queen of Flowers: Miss E. J. BarstoAv—Maraguita, a Spanish Gipsy; Captain Brackenbury—Evening dress: Mrs W. T. J. Bell—lndian Princess: Miss Bajet—Evening dress; Mr G. N. Brassey— Gentleman of the 19th century: Mr A. Brock- Sir Koger de Coverlcy: Mr T. J. Brassey— Evening dress : Mr W. T. J. Bell—Bones; Mrs Frederic M. I. Brookncld—EA rening dress: Mr Harold' Blackett—Duke of Buckingham: Miss Sally Brewer—Swiss Flower Girl; Mr Browning —Chang, a [Chinese Mandarin; Miss Alice Brewer—ltalian Waiting-maid. Miss CaAvkwell—Evening dress ; Mr W. J. Cavorhill—Evening costume ; Mrs Churton— Evening costume: Miss Churton—Evening costumei Mr H. F. Cox—Boatswain's mate (Xymphc(: Mr W. J. Cleghorn—Sergeant of Marines—Mr J. McCosh Clark—lvanhoe; Mrs J. McCosh Clark—Shower of Rain; Miss Coates—Court Lady of the time of Elizabeth ; Mr Archibald Clark—a Venetian Gentleman: Miss Council —Music: Miss Cleghorn—Snow ; Mr Henry E. Cotton—Orpheus ; Mr A. Carrick —Volunteer; Mrs Combes —Evening dress; Mrs Charles E. Cooke—Summer; Mr M.A.Clark, Gcnnaro. Mrs James 11. Dacre—Lady of the Court of Francis IT; Mr James A. Dacre—Evening costume; Mr A. Davis—A Jockey; Miss DaA'is —An Old Maid; Mr K. Jos. Debney—Proteus ; Mrs A. Devore—Spanish Lady: Mr Albert Devore—A^oluntcer Officer, Westland Rifles; Mrs C. Davis—Evening dress; Miss Dyer— Snow.

Mr Elmes—Rajah of BoggleAvallah ; Mrs Elnies—Farima, Bluebeard's wife; Dr Edward Ellis—Robes of a M.D.: Mrs Edward Ellis- Marguerite ; Mrs Louis Ehrenfried—Spanish Lady.

Miss Mabel Fairburn—Lady in the time of Louis XIV; Miss Ruth Fairburn—French Peasant: scar let underskirt with gold bands, scarlet bodice, trimmed with gold and blue, blue overskirfi trimmed with gold bands, white mxislin ca;p trimmed with blue and gold, white chemisette, white apron, black silk stockings, and shoes trimmed with scarlet and blue rosettes, and gold ornaments ; Mr F. Fairburn—General Ivag.yak, of Ashantce : grey uniform, ornamen ted with red braid, broad-brimmed bell-topper tile, with red band, wears spectacles, and a card medal on the breast.

Mrs W. W. Goodhue—Columbia; Mr Justice Gillies—Gentleman without a character; Miss G. Gilfilian—Evening dress; Miss Goldsbro"— Peasant girl ; Mr Gossett— British tar: Miss Gilfillan—Evening dress; Mr W. W. Goodhue— Evening; costume; Miss Green—Dolly Varden; Mr Robert Graham, jun.— Himlress Cregan ; Mr W. Grey—Evening- dress; Mr E. P. Gribben— The Man in the Iron Mask, the great unknown; Miss M. Gossett—Dorothy Foy, the Quakeress; Mrs Glover—Evening dress ; Mr Herbert Green —Gentleman of the 18th Century ; Dr Goldsbro' —Evening dress.

Mr T. Henderson—Duke of Maryborough: Miss Haultain —Dress of 10th Century ; Mr Hean— Duke of Villicrs; Mrs John Hamlin—Genevicve; Mrs G. Henderson—Satanella; Mr A. J. Hunter —The * * * * *; Mr Haultain—Te Koot\; Miss Harrop— Kathcrine of Arragon; Mrs Thos. Henderson—Lady of 19th Century; Miss. "Hen derson—French milkmaid ; Mr Frederick A. Henderson—Evening dress ; Dr Hooper—Even ing dress : Mr Douglas Harrop—Cavsiry officei-, Prince Albert's Light Horse; Mr. T. H. Hamcr- Charles Surface, "School for Scandal"; Mrs Hamlin—A Lady of Schone ; Miss Constance Home—A young lady of the Elizabcthian period ; Miss Home—Lady of 18th Century ; Mrs Home —Lady of 19th Century.

Mrs Barton Ireland—Queen of Roses; Mr Bar ton Ireland—Evening costume; Mr E. S. Mitchell Inncs—Bohemian peasant; Mrs Ed ward Isaacs—"News ot the Day"; Mr Walter Mitchell Inness—Romeo; Miss Isaacs—Vivan dierc—Mr Alfred E. Isaacs—Boatswain's Mate.

Mr George Jolmst one—Count Kaskowiski; Mrs Judd—Evening dress; Miss S. Jackson- Page of time of Francis 1; Miss Jackson- Spring; MrS. Jackson—Evening dress; Mrs S. Jackson—Evening dress; Mr Johnson—Evening dress; Mr S. Jackson, jun.—Evening dress. Miss Kelly—May; Mr Dennis Kelly—Volun teer officer; Mr Carl Kohn—Hamlet ; Mr F. IX. Kent—Lilly white; Miss Lodge—Lady in tlie> reign of George III; Miss L. Lodge—French Peasant Girl; Mrs C. Laishlcy—Evening dress ; Mrs Lawford—Evening dress ; Miss Lyell—Lady Nithsdale; Mr Samuel Leon—University Stu dent ; Mrs Little—lndian Princess; Mr I). M. Luckie—Evening costume; Mrs D. M. Luckie— Evening dress; Mrs E. Lewis—Evening dress; Miss Leech—Margaret of Anj.Qu, wife of Henry



T\EBTOR 3 and Creditors Act, 1875. -*—' The v -.derpipfned having considerable ex penencs in IS aukruptcv Matters offers his s.Tviueß to the public, a na will see jn.oice dons — K.rCH*RD J.h »LTU<. 31 ye^ in Address : Post Office, Auckland, Q OTXTH BKITJtfH ItfSORANOE k-* COMPANY. ALFREr.. BUCKLE r:i> offers himself for Election as n Dire t,r>r of r.iji» above Company, at the Moetiug to laky place on tbe 9LU install*. "ff, I".? NITJJRB ! FURNITURE ! Ladies and Gentlemen about to Furnish are rap-cd fully requested to inspect the Large Stock of DRA WING - ROOM, DINING - ROO M BEDROOM, AND QBNERJ.L .HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE* In our New and Spacious Showrooms. T. & S. COOKE* 67. QUEEN-STREET, Adjoining Bank of Ncv- Zealand.] Xfi I U E ! ! ! jP I E EH! SALVAGE FROM THE LATE FIKEI A. LINABURY & CO., ARE Now Holding an Enormous Cleaning Sale of DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, SALVAGE- FROM LATE FIXE. As most of tlic Goods arc only Slightly Damp, they arc well worthy of inspectio: n. The Entike Stock must ije Clkabkd in ONE WEEK! A. LINABURY & CO,, New Premises: 201 & 206, QUEEN-STREET. qpBCIAL £JHEAP J^INEST AT ' 130 & 132, QUEEN-STREET. ] lEAV V 11 LA N X ETS, 12/ C per pair. GOOD WHITE SHEETING, from 1/3 per yard A Special Line in LONGCLOTH, /5J per yard. STOUT DRESSES, from/9 per yard. SUPERIOR BLACK VELVETEEN, 2/9 per yard. STOUT WINCEYS, /5£ per yard. S. & J. R. V A I L E ; 130 & 132, QaEEN-STSEKJ?.



HONEYCOMB T^RINGED T£ ED Q UILTS IN ALL SIZES AND PRICES, AT HOLLOWAY & GARLICK'S, From 7s lid to 255, Prettiest and Easiest-Washed Quailty ever made. IMMENSE VARIETY OF MUSLIN, LENO, AND LACE CURTAINS ! From 2s lid to 55s per pair. OPENING UP: SPRING & SUMMER DRESS GOODS, JAPANESE SILKS, and FASHIONABLE FANCY MATERIALS, 150 different Patterns in DRESS PRINTS Latest Fashions in MILLINERY MEN'S and BOYS' CLOTHING. Furnishing Goods of Every Description. CITY HALL DRAPERY AND FURNI TURE BAZAAR, Queen-street, Auckland, holloway & garlick, Proprietors. PRICES TO MEET THE TIMES. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN i. Are determined to sustain the character of the JUNCTION TTVRAPEItY vy" ARKI' lOUSK For supplying the Public with GOOD VALUE FOR MONEY!! TH E NE W Sl' 1 1 1 N( \ GOO D S Now Coming to hand, have boon CAREFULLY SELECTED &|\VELL BOUGHT and arc being MARKED om' at Prices to Meet the Times ! ! casii purc11asers OK DRAPERY AND CLOTHING Arc invited to inspect our Stock, which is well assorted in.every Department, and includes a number of Special, and Job Likes, bought in an overstocked Market at a Considek- AHLE REDUCTION', and offered at correspondingly Low Pricks !!! Remember the address :— RU S 118 R0 O X & B R IDG MA N, (Late 11. Ilobbs), JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, (Opposite Army and Navy Hotel), Upper Queex-stkeet, Auckland. mHEPIIE M I S E S OF J. COSGRAVE & CO. WILL BE CLOSED ON THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, FOX MARKING DOWN THE STOCK OK R. W. DYSON.