SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

, rTnT , w . rr.TT.O f This Afternoon, 4.15 KK,n WAIJIR-} Tomorrow Morning, 5.59 SUN SRT.—This Evening, 7.10. SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning:, 4.48. MOON'S AGE.—Full Moon, 31st, 9.3S a.m.

ARRIVALS.

I aiij 10, s.s., Carey, from the South Queen, scliooner. Jones, from Hokianga OJydo, scliooner, from Aitutako Matchless, schooner, McKay, from Dunedin Nouroau Nomade, barque, 393 tons, P. Querc, from Melbourne

DEPARTURES.

Wellington, s.s., Lloyd, for the South lona, s.s., for Russell

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

For London—City of Auckland, early ; Rapido, barque, early ; Glenlora, barque, early For Coromandel —Argyle, s.s., Mondays and Fridays For Waisgarei—Argyle, every Tuesday For the North—lona. s.s., every Monday ForgTauranga—Rowena, s.s. For Dune-din—Southern Cross, mission vessel, early. For the Islands—Loch Lee, schooner, early

IMPORTS.

Per Nouveau Nomade from Melbourne: 100 tons stone (for the dock). —John Reid, Agent. !Vr Matchless from Dunedin: 700 bags bran, 150 bags Hour (200's), 460 bags oats. 15 hhds ale, 115 boxes glass, (ill barrels resin. 25 sacks oatmeal, 10 e-isi's dry goods, a quantity of Yanke notions.— John Reid, Agent. Per -UaK-hk-ss, from Dunedin: 1,12 tons oats, bran, flour, oatmeal, &c. —T. H. Hall & Co.

Tlic scliooner Clyde brings a cargo of fruit from Aitutaki. A third share in the well-known schooner Jessio Henderson will be sold to-morrow by Messrs Grant and Morton. The schooner Queen arrived from Hokianga yesterday, and will sail again on Saturday. The schooner Sissy left Napier for this port on the 25th'"nst. The scheonor Hinemoa has sailed for Hoki anga. The brig Tower Hill, which has been lying wirul-boand at Hokianga for nearly a month, was towed to sea yesterday by the Government s.s. Hinemoa. The brig is bound to Dunedin. The barqu■ Tamaya has finished ballasting, and will sail for Chili immediately. The three-masted schooner Loch Lee sails for Ton^a to-day, with a full cargo of trade, princi . pally shipped by Messrs Owen and Graham. Passengers—Mrs Stevenson, Mrs Swain and three children, Messrs Bcrrell and Bullock. The Auckland schooners Minnehaha, Belle Brandon, and Transit ai-eallin Lyttelton, and if we are rightly informed will all take part in the Merchant Vessel Sailing Race in the Regatta on New Year's Day. The s.s. Taranaki left the Manukau for the South yesterday afternoon. Passengers: Mr and Mrs Steggal, Mr and Mrs Brown and three children, Mrs Kingdon, Mr« Rabe and five children, Mrs Wylie, Mrs Gray, Miss March, Rev Mr Kinder, Rev Mr Campbell, Messrs. Beale, Council, La wry (2), Dawes, Sinel, Ogilvie, West, Bowen, MetcalF, Ryan, and 11 steerage. The schooner Edith was at Aitutaki about a fortnight before the Clyde called. The," ship Jessie Osborne will not break bulk till after the Christmas holidays. The schooner Josephine is transhipping her nickel ore into the Tamaya for ballast. The barque Mondoza is being discharged by Mr Butcher. Her stuff is turning out splendidly. The schooner Clyde is discharging her cargo of fruit at the main eastern tee. Her oranges arrive in a well-preserved condition. Messrs. Stone Bros, received a telegram from Hobart Town this morning stating that the Bella Mary sailed for this port on the 2!ird inst. She may therefore bo expected in a week or ten days time. HThe scliooner Matchless brinds a cargo of grain, Hour, etc., from the South. She left Dunedin loth inst. at 3.30 a.m., and brought up at the Port till 2.30 p.m. Crossed the bar at 4.30 ji.in. with tine breeze from the southward. Had favourable winds to the East Cape, which was rounded on Tuesday, the 19th inst., at 7 a.m. Strong westerly winds here caused the vessel to seek shelter in Hick's Bay, where she lay till Monday last. Had light and variable thence to port. kf. The smart French barque Nouveau Nomade arrived from Melbourne at noon to-day with a otrgo consisting wholly of stone for the dock. Captain Querie reports of his voyage that he left Melbourne 12th December, with S.W. breezes, which veered to North after a few days. Had fine weather all the way across. Sighted the North Cape on Christmas Day, and had light favourable winds down the coast. The Nouveau Nomade will go from hence to Maiden Island, and load guano for Hamburgh. The barque Giencoe, is to leave Hobart Town to-morrow for Auckland via Newcastle where she will load a cargo of coals for U.S. Meyers 00. .

The barque Mirzaporc was to leave Melbourne about t'-'n days after the Nouveau Nomade. The Auckland Volunteer Engineers will hold their annual picnic at Motuhihi on New ;, Year's Day.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under :— For' Thames, to-morrow, at 10.30 "a.m. |and

5.30 p.m. For Goromandel, to-morrow, at 2.30 p.m. For Russell, per Julia Price, to-morrow, at 9a.m. For Whitianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per

Rowena, to-morrow, at 4 p.m. For Waiwera, Mahurangi, Matakana, Manga wai, Waipu, &c, per Annie Milbank, on

Saturday next, at 10 a.m. For Napier, Gisborne, and Southern Province", per City of Sydney, four hours after her arrival from Kandavu. For Tonga, per Loch Lee, to-morrow, at i p.m.

For Taranaki, and Southern Provinces, per

Taupo, on Saturday next, at 3 p.m. For Gisborne and Napier, per Go-Ahead, on

Saturday next, at 5 p.m. N.B.—-Monday, Ist January, being a Post offioo holiday, the mails usually made upon that day, ■will be closed on Saturday, 30th instant, at 7 p.m.

S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster.

BIRTH.

BULLOCK.--On the 27th instant, at Cheltenham Beach, North Shore, Mrs. Geo. Bullock of a son.

MARRIAGE.

CARDNO—WEBSTER.—On the 22nd instant, at the residence of tho bride's aunt, North Shore, by the Rev. Robert Somervillo, E. It. Cardno to Jane, eldest daughter of William Webster, Esq., of Hokianga.

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

THURSDAY. DECEMBER 28, 1876.

JFor the rAv.se that lacks assistance, For the wroiiß Umt needs resistance. For the future in the distance, And the «ood that we can do.

The irrepressible Englishman who is credited with having conveyed a scaffolding across the Egyptian desert with the fell intent of carving his name on the nose of the Great Sphinx has had numerous admirers and imitators among the tourists who have visited the wonders of lioto mahana. Tliu water flowing over the sur face of the once indescribably beautiful pink terrace has the property of rendering indelible any mark made with a common lead pencil on the surface of the stone, by covering it with a transparent deposit similar in substance to the terrace itself. Here the übiquitous tourist of vandalic tastes has found a glorious opportunity, and has improved it so industriously that portions of the terrace for many feet have been reduced to the artistic level of a badly painted advertising board. Not satisfied with a simple autograph, many of these lovers of the beautiful have adopted as their model the common large-sized business card, and preparing a thick black border four inches by three as a fitting enclosure for the important information to be be queathed to after generations, have proceeded to inscribe therein name, place of re sidence, occupation, and date when their illustrious feet trod those marble stops. But this is not all. Among those Avho have aided in the heathenish work of disfiguring and destroying what they are powerless to restore, were certain distin guished visitors and high functionaries temporarily located in the colony. The temptation to stars of lesser magnitude 1 was irresistible, and those parts of the terraces which had been traced by the sacred pencils have been chijjped off, apparently with an iron chisel conveyed for the purpose, and no doubt these splinters are treasured in tho secret cabinet of some obscure; tuft-hunter. Speci mens broken from the terraces in the same way have left extensive flaws which the process of formation constantly going on will probably not restore in a century. The Maori chiefs belonging to the tribes that own Hotomahana have, at the sugges tion of Home European animated by nobler sentiments, posted a modest notice requesting visitors not to ruthlessly destroy the work of hundreds of years, but the dates on. the most recent lead-pencillings shew that this remonstrance is ineffective, and with the increased number of visitors, the defacement goes on with accelerated speed, The perpQtrittQrs.fti'Q JA numerous instauc^

offenders in high places who should have set ;i better example. The pink terrace has suffered infinitely more than _To Tarata from the depredations of tourists, but it can hardly be doubted that the practice of tramping with every species of hob-nailed boots over the delicate fretwork on the face of the Queen of Rotomahana is damaging the sharply cut lines which con tribute so largely to the exquisite beauty of this marvellous "marble cataract. That the Government should have so long neglected all precautions against the destruction of these unique natural phenomena—these objects of national, of world-wide interest — bespeaks an aesthetic turpitude inconceiv able of any but an Anglo - Saxon community. The Maori lias preserved in all their virgin beauty these noble terraces, only to be diverted, appar ently, into disgraceful monuments ex hibiting English vulgarity, want of taste, and indwelling Vandal instincts. If the law would enable the Maori proprietors to sue some of those who have carefully recorded the day and date of their own offences, we doubt not a subscription could be raised to take vigorous action in the hope of checking the practice. But it is said that an action for trespass upon open native lauds cannot be sustained against a British subject. A very simple and effective check might, however, be provided by the Government until the lakes and terraces have been acquired for the colony. One of the numerous armed constables who are scattered broadcast over the Taupo district, if permanently stationed at Rotoniahana, would be ample to preserve the terraces from destruction, and might render material assistance to tourists visiting the district. We cannot too strongly urge this as a duty, the neglect of which will hereafter bring disgrace and contempt upon the present generation of colonists.

Te WeTKBK still obstinately opposes the navigation of the Mokau river by Europeans. Recently he invited the owners of the s.s. Waitara to visit the river for the purpose of removing the goods formerly brought there by European storekeepers for trade, and abandoned in the hurry of flight. Te Wetere received the passengers by the Waitara courteously, but reproached them for having thrice entered the river formerly without his permission. After some bargain ing the Captain of the steamer agreed to remove the goods for £40. Te Wetoro asked "How much per ton would you charge for freight if we employed you to trade on the river ?" The reply was " about thirty shillings." " How is it, then," asked Te Wetere, " that you demand £40 for^ re moving this small parcel of goods ?" The question was a poser, but European guile was equal to the emergency. After a long pause the captain replied "that by removing the goods without the prior consent of tho owners he would render himself liable to a charge of theft. The goods were afterwards brought down to the landing place, but through the intercession of one of those old Maori woman who always turn ii]) at junctures of this kind they were taken back to the store. The Europeans were then warned that if they again took a steamer into the river without the prior consent of Te Wetere and Pakukohatu, she would be burned, and the chiefs would not be responsible for the lives of the crew and passengers. The Mokau chiefs appear so determined to prevent European trading in the district that they threaten to drive oil" and seize the lands of natives who encour age European traders to enter the river.

TUB Turks have promulgated a new Con stitution, guaranteeing to all subjects perfect legal equality, religions liberty, a Chamber of Deputies, ami Ministerial responsibility. We will not undertake to say how often similar rights have been guaranteed by the Porte when constrained Zy impending peril, but we venture to Ray that no Mahommedan power, acting in accordance with its religious tenets, can carry out such a programme in its integrity. There is just a possibility that permanent amelioration of the condition of the Sultan's Christian subjects might be secured if such a Constitution were carried out under proper supervision until Christians had acquired their legitimate position in the Government and in public offices. POKSlbly the vague and incomplete .allusion made in the cable despatch to Sir Henry Elliott, the British Ambassador, refers to some such supervision, although the biassed action of that high ollicial in relation to the Turkish atrocities does not inspire confi dence in his qualifications as guardian of the rights of the Christians, or an a check upon the tyranny and excesses of the Turks. However, under his or sonic other super vision appointed by the International Conference the administration of the Tur kish programme may bo accepted by the Powers, for the present, as a settlement of the difficulty. It is hard to see what the Turkish Government could have offered more, and if past experience conveys any warning, the attempt at equitable ad ministration on this occasion will be some thing more than a sham.

DUHING the holidays the resources of tho manager of our railway have been taxed_ to their utmost limit, and it say.s something for the care exercised by the officials that no accident lias occurred. We learn that in tho crush of traffic great and unnecessary obstruction is often offered to the management, by passengers, who carelessly or intentionally neglect to procure tickets before entering the train, or cause delays when asked to produce their passes. On a basy day the collectors have barely time to get through the train when not stuck up by a refractory passenger, who either has not a ticket, has lost it, or left it with a friend somewhere else in the train. Strictly speaking, a passenger in a train without a ticket, is liable to be prose cuted. In some instances on Boxing Day, we arc informed, tickets were not produced until the fares were demanded, yet we have no doubt that if the manager instituted prosecutions in such cases, his action would be considered harsh. We shall not be suspected of nnduo partia lity in favour of the system of railway man agement that has sometimes prevailed, but we feel bound to credit the present manager with the success which has attended his recent exertions, and to urge the public, on their part, to render the officials every assistance in their power.

An application was made the other day at Charleston, West Coast, by a lady who requested that her husband might be bound over to keep the peace, as on the previous evening he had turned in between the clean sheets with his dirty muddy boots on. _ This, although very provoking, was not considered a sufficient reason to bind the husband over in sureties for his future good behaviour.

The number of advertisements for lost articles which have appeared in. the Star the last day or two shew nnmistakeably the ravages of picnics and Christmas merry making upon the attire, finery, and general belongings of holiday-seekers. The list of goods, for which bereaved owners mourn, comprises a variety of articles appropriate for feminine or masculine uses. Howards are offered for their recovery.

The performance of the " Messiah" at St. Matthew's church will take place this even ing at half-past seven o'clock. We learn that a collection will be made on behalf of the Hospital, tho Home for Destitute Children, and the Parncll Orphanage. Free admission to the concert.

An entertainment of wyweiM and interest ing character will bo given this evening in the Lorne-Htrcct Hall, for tho benefit of Mrs Cotighlan and family. The particulars mo duly Vvurtia«d poster, %

An English paper states that Mr. Sims Reeves lias received an ofter by cablegram of an engagement to sing at fifty concerts m Australia for a total sum of £15,000 ; that the offer will probably be accepted, and the great English tenor will in that case leave for the antipodes about June next year. Gustav Yon dcr Heyde, Esq., Consul for the German empire, paid an official visit yesterday to His Imperial Majesty's ship, Hcrtha, now in port. On leaving the ship, the Consul was saluted with seven guns, the usual Consular salute. Captain Knorr subsequently came on shore, and visited the Hon. F. Whitaker, Dr. Pollen, and the Mayor.

Sir,—A certain clergyman intho vicinity of Auckland very much startled a goodly proportion of his audience on Sunday evening last, by his pulpit-advocacy of horse racing, etc., and recommending all parents (himself included?) to be sure their children accompanied them when attending such places. Many persons could not help feel ing this man was indeed " the blind leading the blind," and certainly a most unfaithful teacher of the chart lie professes to follow, and lead others to follow ; where it says " Lead us NOT, into temptation, but deliver us from evil; etc., and—" Train up a child in the way ho should go," etc.-—Yours, Visitor.

The Govenor has accepted the resignation of the commission of \V. A. Cowan Sub- Lieutenant, in the To Awamutu Covulry Volunteers.

Letters of naturalization, have been issued to Bartholo Turnwald, of Puhoi.

The appointment of Dennis Kelly as Lieutenant in No. 3 Co., A.R.V., is gazetted.

A band is to bo engaged for the races on the Ist and 2nd January.

The settling on Tuesday's racing took place last night at the Occidental hotel. Everything passed oIF pleasantly.

We regret to learn that the valuable imported cow, Young Dolly, by Earl of Derby, belonging to Captain Fraser, died yesterday of lockjaw, at Messrs T. and S. Morrins's farm, Rcmuera. The death of the animal is a serious loss to her owner.

A programme of athletic sports is an nounced to heighten the attractions of Ellerslie Gardens on the Ist January, New Year's day. After the enjoyable day hundreds spent there on Boxing Day, another crowd may be expected on Monday next. The principal event in the sports will be a 300 yards handicap, with two valuable prizes.

Yesterday evening a lorry drawn by two horses, the property of Mr. Craig, was coming down Shortland Crescent, when opposite the Provincial Government ollices one of the horses staggered and fell upon the pavement. The horse was removed from the harness and led to the stables, the lorry being drawn Ijv the other horse.

The laughable opera bouffc of " Trial by Jury" will be given on Thursday next, January 4th, not Tuesday 2nd, as previously stated. " A rehearsal will be held on Friday night at half-past seven o'clock by those who are to take part in the performance, on the night of the entertainment. "Trial by Jury " will bo preceded by a short select concert by the best musical talent in the city.

We are requested by the authorities of Parnell to say that the Lord's Supper will bo administered in that ehnrch on the even ing of the 31st inst. .Such notice was omitted last Sunday morning.

Tho manager <>f the Old Men and Women's Refuge desires to acknowledge through the medium of the Star, the kindness of Mr Pornwell in .'.ending 201 ba of sausages for that Institution.

IVIr Ralph Levoi, formerly of Auckland, latterly of Wellington, has failed. The assets represent about 19s in the £.

To the Editor: Sir, —Will you be kind enough to decide the following bet between A. and 15. A. backed Kingfisher against the Held in the Handicap race. Kingfisher was scratched. Who wins? Or is it a drawn bet I —Yours, ifec, Kacki:.—[Bets made on the day of the race always presume a start. If made previous to the race day, the scratching of a horse does not invalidate the bet unless a special stipulation was agreed to when the bet Avas made. If A. made the bet on Tuesday it is oil". If pre viously, he loses.—Ed. E.S.]

The body of Mary Waters, aged 2.), who had been a domestic servant in the family of Mr Frances, was brought up by the cutter Spey from Waihcke yesterday. She died from tho bursting of a blood vessel, and as the medical certificate set forth the cause of death, an inquest on tho body was not considered necessary.

The Imperial Government have requested his Excellency the Governor to furni.sh a description of the roads and other linos of communication throughout the colony. The details of the description required are set forth ns follows :—' Tho commercial and

strategical value of each line of com munication, accompanied, if possible, by military reconnaissances and sketches of each. In the absence of reconnaissances, such information, given in detail, as may be forthcoming on the following heads : — Roads : A complete itinerary of their course, and of that of all bush tracks or other paths as far as known ; kind of country they traverse, with its resources ; their width, passes, cuttings, embankments, inclines, bridges, ferries, fords ; whether metalled or unmetalled ; how far they are fitted for the passage of infantry, cavalry, artillery, and transport; town, and villages on their course, or skirted by them, with their resources in food, water, and shelter formen and horses ; exact distances, branch roads, and intercom munication with other lines of communica tion ; military positions, convenient halting places and camping grounds on the line, ex tent of "each, and whethcrit fulfils all the con ditions concerning the health and the wants of troops, also its distance from neighboring camping grounds." The Minister'for Public Works has applied to the District Engineers of the several provincial districts throughout the colony to supply the required information in detail.

The races at Drury come off oh New Year's Day.

The Hokianga Kauri Timber Company lias received an order from India for 200,000 feet of kauri timber.

The "News Budget" in an absurd part of the " Sydney Mail" says :—" Domestic servants arb said to have been lately so numerous in Auckland that many of them are destitute for want of employment." There is some gross blunder here. The fact is the demand for female servants is still in excess of the supply, and if the people of Sydney are troubled with a super abundance of this class of servants of the right stamp, they can relieve themselves of all difficulty, by paying their passages to Auckland.

Nomination for the Blenheim Cup and Marlborough Cup close on Saturday.

The Saturday Night Entertainment Committee will give their anniversary concert and ball in the Temperance llali, Albert-street, on the evening of New Year's Day. The programme which is full of the choicest morceau of song and melody of England, Ireland, and Scotland appears among our advertisements. The concert will bo^followed by scenes from Sheridan's " School for Scandal," in which the leading character of Sir Peter Teazle will be sustained by Mr Arthur, an amateur of fame, who is possessed of a rich wardrobe expressly made in London, and not inferior in magnificence and style to the best professional outfit. The cast is also judicious, and as the per formers are rehearsing with care, under a skilful "coach" a genuine success may be anticipated. A. select ball will take place ult<jr the porforwaaucQ,

The general half-yearly meeting of the i members of Branch No. 81, H.A.C.8.5., was held last evening in St. Patrick's Hall, Hobson-stoeet, Bro. W. F. Clifton, Presi dent, in the chair. There was a good attendance of members. The principal business was the election of officers for the ensuing term, and the reception of report and balance-sheet. The following members were elected to office :—T. H. White, President; E. F. Kelly, Vice-President; M. Connolly (re-elected), Secretary; Jas. Clarke, Treasurer; P. Lynch, Warden ; J. O'Hara, Guardian; P. O'lfara and E. F. Miller, Sick Visitors; W. F. Clifton and J. Christopher, Auditors. After the officers had been duly installed, the Secretary, Bro. M. Connolly, read the report and balance sheet, which shewed the Society to be in a nourishing condition. The sum of £200 had been placed to their credit at the Bank during the past year, owing chiefly to the increase in membership and the few calls on the Sick Fund. Past-President Bro. Clifton congratulated the Society on the progress which had been made during the past term, and expressed a hope that they would be able in a short time to erect a hall of their own. Bro. W. O'Beirne com plimented the officers on the creditable manner in which the business of the Society's meetings was conducted. A vote of thanks to the retiring officers was carried by acclamation. The meeting closed in the usual way.

The contract for harbour improvements at Dunedin, to cost £89,350, has been secured by Mr David Proudfoot.

Mr C. Hasstian, chiropodist, of Wyndham street, has recently made several successful cures, and as his stay is brief in Auckland wo would recommend all persons who aro troubled with corns, bunions, or warta. to make an early application. A member of our staff had long been troubled with a vexatious corn, but which Mr Hasslian has completely eradicated by his simple, painless mode of operation. We notice also that Mr Hayr, of Messrn Cawkwcll'a office, Vulcan Lane, whose hand was completely covered vvtth warts, has been effectually cured by Mr Basstian's treatment, and lie can now use his hand freely.

The excursions to Motutapu, and Waiwera made by the new steamer Itotomahana during the holidays were" highly successful, as good crowds of excursionists were on board on every trip. Tho speed, and good accommodation of tho steamer were the theme of general admira tion.

A man was found on the race course at Ellerslie on Boxing day Buffering from lockjaw. He was taken to the hospital. The regular monthly meeting of the Prince of Wales Lodge will bo hold this evening in the Lodge-room ofthc Star Hotel, Albert-street, at the usual hour.

The Rev. Win. Potter, formerly of Auckland, but now of Ghrifitchurch, will preach this even ing in the Primitive Chapel, Newmarket.

POLICE COURT.—Tins Day.

(Before W. J. Hurst, Esq., Mayor, and J. Willcocks, Esq., J.P.)

I.NEJ'.IUATES,

John Glecson, a new arrival, John Shiers, an old hand, ami James Boyd, a youth, were charged with drunkenness, and fined 5s each. UNHAPPY AM) LONE. Richard Cahill was charged under the Vagrant Act with being an habitual drun kard. Prisoner said lie had been rather boisterous on account of ('hristmas. Sub Inspector Pardy said he did not wish to press the charge of vagrancy,*"as the prisoner was a hard working mail, but given to drink. The Bench in consideration of these facts, imposed a fine of 20-s. and cos.s. DISOKDKRED HOMES. John Falconer was charged with com mitting a violent assault upon Agnes, his wife, by attempting to choke her by push ing her against the back door, on the '27th. The prisoner, apparently a working man, said he would plead guilty under certain circumstances. In fact he would plead not guilty. Agnes Falconer, of Lonie-stroet, wife of the prisoner, said she was frequently trou bled with black eyes, caused by John's fists. On the night of the 42"th. lie used her violently, clutched her by tho throat, thrust her against the wall, and Paid lie would die for her. She had been subjected to a long course of cruelty, but she did not wish to press the charge, if John would act like ;\ man.

Prisoner said his wife had not acted as she ought to have done ; she did not please him on Saturday evening after she got liis weeks wages. She was half tipsey at the sime, and her love of drink was the sole cause of their unhappiness. She kept out two whole nights ; she went visiting the O'Flynn's, the McCarthy's, and the O'Flannigan's, and when she came back the nearest thing went at his head. He had been responsible for her good conduct in this Court. The prisoner's statement was found to be correct. The Bench said tho prisoner had commit ted a breach of the law by striking her, which was decidedly wrong. Ordered to find surety in his own person for £20, to keep the peace for three months. ANOTHKK CASE. Michael O'Connell was charged with violently assaulting Bridget, his wife, by pulling her out of bed by her legs, and threatening to pass her rapidly into another condition of existence, on the night of the 27th inst. Prisoner, a man in years, denied the charge. Mrs O'Connell said she did not wish to press the charge. She resided off Cook street, and yesterday morning her husband nearly killed her. To Sub-Inspector Pardy : I was not drunk yesterday, but I was the day before. To the Bench : I had been drunk for ! several days ; he beat me and murdered me; • not quite murdered me ; she had nothing to drink yesterday ; she was on her oath. The clerk of the court shewed that Mrs O'Conncll was drunk at ten o'clock yesterday on laying the information. Mrs O'Connell : It "was only the smell of the liquor of the previous day oozing out. Prisoner then went into the box, and said he was perfectly sober at the time of the occurrence ; she left her home on Saturday and returned on Tuesday, in a dreadful state of intoxication ; she said she would go on the drink again, and lie caught her by the shoulaer to prevent her, saying she had enough of it for the present, and she must stop in and look after her children. The daughter, a little girl, came forward sobbing, and stated that her mother had. been drinking. The Bench dismissed the case, and ox pressed sympathy with O'Connell's position, as he appeared and ill-used and worthy man; " worthy of a better partner." CHARGE OF THEFT. Two saddles and bridles were missing, T trow, And suspicion glanced forward, and followed a Crowd ! «. Richard Francis Crowe was brought up on two charges. (1) With stealing a saddle and bridle, value £4, the property of Mr John Smith, of NeAvton ; (2) With stealing a saddle and bridle, A ralue £4, the property of Edward McKee. The offences avoic alleged to luia'c been committed yesterday. Prisoner pleaded not guilty to both ehai'ges, Sub-inspector Pardy said tho cases Avcre cases of strong suspicion, as the property Avas found on the premises of the prisoner. The charges Avere remanded until Satur day. A MELANCHOLY CASE. Anne Bell, a child of fourteen years, Avas brought upon tAsro charges (1) AA rith abscond ing from the Home for neglected children ; (2) with stealing t,Avo books, value 4s the property of John Rhodes, of Auckland. Sub-Inspector Pardy said the little girl had been leading a Avretched life, and had several times escaped from the care of Mr Stickley. ' Her parents, especially her mother, had set tho child a saa example, Remanded until tu.mQiTQ.Ay,

DEPUTATION TO MR WHITAKER.

A DEPUTATION consisting of Messrs Fenton, Campbell, Isaacs, Yon der Heyde, Nathan, Phamberlin, M.L.C. ; Macfarlane, M.H.R.; and Tole, M.H.R., waited on Mr Whitaker this morning relative to the "YVynyard Pier. Mr Tole, who introduced the deputation, explained that during last session of parliament he had presented a petition, signed by 900 residents in the neighbour hood, in favour of access being restored between Short-street and the Wynyard Pier, which had been cut off by the construction of the railway. The petition was referred to the Public Petitions Com mittee and favourably reported upon. The residents had enjoyed the right for 28 years and the committee was of opinion that they were entitled to have it continued. Subse quently, Mr Tole baid, lie asked the Minister of Public Works in the House whether it was the intention of the Government to give eifect to the recommendation of the committee, but did not receive any satis factory assurance. Mr Richardson had promised a crossing near Parnell, but tho site suggested was unsuitable on account of the gradient of the railway as well as its position. A foot-bridge at Short-street would meet the views of the deputation. In reply to a question by Mr Fenton Mr Whitaker said he elieved the people were entitled to a public right-of-way. Mr Carruthers, the Engineer-in-Chief, had been delayed in taking over the southern lines of railway, but would be in Auckland shortly when the members of the derjuta tion would be invited to meet him and discuss the subject. The members having returned thanks for theircourtiousreception, and consideration of the matter, then with drew.

GRAND STAND HANDICAP.

The following is the declaration of weights for the Grand Stand Handicap, l£ miles, to be run on Now Year's Da\

St. lb. Mr James Watts's Ariel, 4yrs 8 12 Mr Kobert Reay's Danebury, 3yrs ...8 8 Mr Owen C McGec's Perfume, G yrs ... 8 7 Mr Wm Walters's Kingfisher, C yrs ... 8 4 Mr Robt Reay's Tommy Dodd, aged ... 8 4 Mr Robert Reay's Middlcton, Syrs ... 7 12 Mr Robert Reay's Fallacy, 3yrs 7 7 Mr W Walters's Izaak Walton, 4yrs ... 7 7 Mr Chas Ring's Gainsborough, syrs ... 6 12 Mr W Crosbie's Sprig of Shillelagh, 4yrs 6 12 Mr Kirkwood's Tui, oyrs 6 10 Mr William Walters's Medea, syr.=s ..6 7 H. Hanuley. Handicapper.

PUKEKOHE RACES.

These races came oil'on the 27th, and were largely attended by settlers from Pukekohe and neighbouring places. Hurdle Race.—Rocket, 1 ; Bess, 2. Pony Hurdle Race.—Mr Gill's Rousseau, 1 ; Towser, 2. Handicap Settlers' Race.— Cossique, 1 ; Relic of the Isles, 2. Pukekohe Plate.— Ravensham, 1 ; Gay Lass, 2. Ladies' Purse. —Gay Lass, 1 ; Cossique,

Pony Race.—Minnie, 1 ; Blaez, 2. Consolation. —Belle of the Isles, 1 ; The Fairy, 2. Pony Trotting Race.—Jenny, 1.

INDIANA MINSTRELS.

THESE old friends with new faces, appeared last evening in the Lome-street Hall in the guise of the " Indiana Minstrels," before a fair audience. The programme was divided into, three parts, sentimental, humourous, and farcical. The band played an opening overture ; and a number of old vocalists under various names, some scarcely pro nounciblc, sang " Come from afar," " You've been a friend to me," " Where arc my school-mates gone," " Cany the news to Mary," " Let me like a soldier fall," und other well known ballads. • The concert was well sustained, and closed with a strange farce, entitled " A shower of cats," which "was very laughable despite its unpleasant title. A quadrille party fol lowed.

THE PIGEON MATCH.

Tire pigeon match was finished at half past five o'clock, yesterday afternoon, and resulted in a victory for Mr. Bishop, who shot from the extreme range of 27 yards. After the completion of the ten rounds, tho winner and Mr. Middleton, of Papakura were ties with 16 each, Mr. S. Morrin, Mr. J. Russell, and Mr. Kennedy Hill, being one behind with 15 each. The two champions now came to the scratch to fire off bird for bird. Bishop shot first, and knocked his game over in his usual deliberate style. The younger man was apparently cool, but a close observer could tell that he was a trifle anxious as he prepared to take aim. He missed a good bird, and thus the old Battorsea Red House champion secured the trophy. It is to be hoped that on the next occa sion some better birds wiii be scoured, in which case the farcical element, which so strongly predominated in the match, of yesterday, will not be so conspicuous. The following are the totals made by each competitor: Bishop, 27yds. rise, lGgand 2; Middloton, 25yds., 16 and 0; S. Morrin, 25 yds., 15; J. Russell, 25 yds., 15; Kennedy Hill, 25 yards, 15 ; Anderson, 27 yd**., 14 ; F. Whitaker, 23 yds., 14 ; A. E. Isaacs. 21 yds., 13; E. E. Cox, 24 yds, 12; Hammond, 21 yds.*, 12 ; W. F. Buckland, 25 yds,, 11; Leonard, 24 yds., 9; Trust, 25 yds., 9; Gwynne, 25 yds., 8; Lang, 26 yds. ' Messrs Sellers, ,Hay, Aitkin, Edwards, Godkin, and Clark, retired.

Torres Straits Mail.

HONGKONG, (via Sydney), Dec. 4. Tho Maia, steamer, bound coastwise, was nearly lost on the 24th November, in a fearful typhoon. There was a tremendous panic amongst the Chinese passengers. Im mense quantities of gold- and silver coin were thrown overboard to conciliate Joss.

Melbourne, December 27. The cricket match has been postponed till to-morrow on account of the rain.

Sailed—The Arawata.

MR TONKS AND THE LATE MAYORAL ELECTION.

(To the Editor of the Evening Star.) Sir, —On the evening of the late Mayoral Election several gentlemen enquired of me why I did not request a scrutiny (ft the votes ; to which i replied that I did not think it necessary. But on the following morning I was speaking to Mr Tonks, the Returning Officer, when lie told me in the presence of Mr P. A. Philips, Town Clerk, that he had been the means of keeping 300 votes from me. I thought at the time it was a strange assertion for a Returning Officer to make, as any man occupying that position should carefully avoid partisanship, and should be like Mr Tonks's predecessor in that ofh'ee, Mr Prime, above suspicion. Since then, I have learned that Mr Tonks tried to interfere with some of the electors, avlio were going to record their votes in my favour. In my opinion it is well for the citizens of Auckland that this gentleman no longer occupies the position of Mayor and Returning Officer, and trusting his' future political career will be more successful than his municipal one.—l am yours, etc., J. COSGRAVE. v

P.S. The only reason I can assign for the late Mayor and Returning Officer's antipathy towards me is that I was the author of a few harmless telegrams sent to Mr Swanson, on hearing that the member for City West had deserted his party, a copy of which I give you as well as 1 can re member them :—" To-Win. Swanson Esq.— Impress upon Tonks not to accept the Agent-Generalship, no matter on what terms, as Auckland cannot dispense with his valuable services at this important crisis." The second telegram was, "Tell Tonks to fall on the bosom of Sir George, and ail will ba furgiveu,"

CABLEGRAMS.

Now Turkish Constitution Promulgated.

Religious Liberty and Legal Equality.

LONDON, December 23. The new Turkish Constitution promulgated on the 23rd provides for the establishment of a Constitutional Government, a Chamber of Deputies, with Ministerial responsibility religious liberty, legal equality regarding all subjects of the Ottoman Empire. (?) To be held under the Presidency of Sir Henry Elliott, who leaves for Stamboul on the 28th inst. "Wreck of the City ef Seringapatam. The ship City of Scringapatam, from London to Melbourne, was wrecked at Bona Vista. AH hands were saved. Commercial. Money is abundant. Rates of discount arc unchanged. The Bank reserve is sixteen millions. Consols, 94; Wheat quiet, New Zealand 50s to 545.

AUSTRALIAN.

Press agency. Victorian Parliament.—Wo Con fidence Motion Defeated.

BLUFF, Dec. 28th. News is to hand per Tararua from Melbourne to Dec. 21. '

Parliament will be prorogued to-morrow. Last week Mcßean brought forward a no con fidence motion in the Government which was defeated by a majority of seven, after the house had sat till half past five in the morning. Mr Berry, in the evening, gave notice of another and similar motion ha ving reference to the with drawal of the Government railway policy. Some discreditable scenes have been enacted and the gallaries twice cleared. During the last two or three days a large amount of public business has been disposed of Murder of a Child "by its Mother.' Elizabeth Wells murdered her illegitimate child at Emerald Hill by cutting its throat. A cable conference will be held at Sydney at the end of January. Seven horses are likely to start for the Cham pion race. Bricsis is a fast favourite, Richmond and Calamina are next. EXCESSIVE HEAT. The weather has been fearful. Last Friday the thermometer was 110J in the shade ; in parts of the interior of N.S.W. it has been as high aa 124 in the shade for days together. Farm labour is scarce in the country. As much as 15/ a day and keep are given in some parts. A good harvest anticipated. Disappointment was felt at tho withdrawal of the Government Railway scheme and the pro posed loan, as it delayed the circulation of the loan money already available for us. The general elections will probably bo held in April next under tho new Bill. All the elections will take place on the same day, not in batches as heretofore.

Business is dull, but sugars, brandies and tea are still very firm at an advance.

THEATRE ROYAL.

BOXING Night at the Theatre lioyal might, without exaggeration, be designated the night of the season. The house was completely filled, and the performance merited the patronage of the splendid audience. The managers "were determined that the drama in its loftier sense should not be beneath the events of the holiday. The pieces selected, for that occasion were "Sir Hinion Simple," and "Pluto," the latter from the misty shores of mythology, although the ex travaganza lias little to do, in its details, with the old Grecian story. Sir Simon was repre scntecLn short time since by Mr Lingard, who, by his extraordinary talent made an otherwise dull character, full of wit and animation. The other characters were represented by the same artists as on the previous evening, with the exception of Miss Maggie Knight, who ha 3 recently returned to the stage. " Pluto " was the great feature of the evening, and it was received in the most satisfactory manner. " Pluto " was impersonated by Mr Lingard, and Orpheus by Miss Dunning (Lingard). Persons who expect the dry details of mythology, in extravaganza, bearing classical names, will ibe invariably disappointed, as these things bear no relation to the echool boy^ stories of our early days. Pluto in the hands of Mr Lingard was anything but ghostly ; it was rich in humour, and as funny as Sir John Falstaif. Miss Dunning was simply exquisite as Orpheus, and her charming songs and snatches of minstrelsy were witching in the extreme. The other feminine parts were artistically sustained by Miss Wiseman, Miss Knight, and Miss Lawrence. Mr and Miss Thornton represented Clotho and Apollo with unquestioned merit. Mr Power was very suc cessful as Clotilda, and Mr Rede as Charon The scenery, orchestra, aud accompaniments were in admirable keeping, and everything was in a high degree satisfactory. The repetition of last evening was equally good, and this evening, in addition to Pluto, will boperformed Gilbert's playful comedy of "Sweethearts." We notice that the Lingards will present "Our Boys" once more to-morrow evening ; a play which from its nearness to human nature never fails in winning immense applause.

LODGE ARA.—INSTALLATION OF BRO. A. HEATHER, W.M.

Tiie annual installation of officers for Lodge Ara, J.C., took place at the Masonic hotel, Princes stroct last evening. There was a full muster of members besides visiting brcthcrn from town, and country. The lodge having been formally openedand duly constituted, Bro. Arthur Heather was installed a "Worshipful Master, by Bro Robinson, P.M., assisted by Bro. Rees, P.M. The other officers installed were—Bro. Bullock, S.W. ; Bro. M. Levy, J.W.; Bro. Wright, P.D. ; Bro. Posseniskie, J.D.; Bro. Rev. Dr. Kidd, Chap lain ; Bro. Recs, P.M., treasurer. During the ceremony of installation, and the closing cere mony, the new W.M. exhibited remarkable proficiency in the mysteries of the craft. UNITED SERVICE LODGE. The installation of officers of the United Service Lodge was conducted by Bro. Burns, P.M., assisted by Bro. Rees, P.M. Bro. Redforn was duly installed W.M.; Bro Bycroft, S.W.; Bro. Holmes, J.W.; Bro. Suiter", S.D.; Bro. Goodacro, J.D.; Bro. Hamilton, 1.G.; Bro. P.M. Burns, Secretary;Bro. P.M. Batt, Treasurer. Bro. J. Brown greatly added to the success of the pro ceedings by his skilful performances as organist. After the above ceremonies, the brethren sat down to an excellent repast, served up by Bro. Avey in his best style, to which full justice was done, and the brethren spent a few hours in social harmony.

SANITARY MEASURES.

(Extract from Chambers Journal, 25 July-18/4.) Tint: month. Science and Art.—ln Baltimore a system of scavenging has been in use twenty years, which speaks well for the health ana cleanliness of the city. Each householder is required every day during hot weather to place the refuse of his house—the animal ana veget able matter in one box. the ashes and dry renise in another-—ready for the garbage carls. . mese carts are built with a moveablo partition, oy which the dry and the wet are kept separate during transport to the outskirts, when a caio ful conversion of the whole to economical uses is carried on. Bones, rags, scraps or PaPer> when sorted, yield a handsome pront. iwu boots, shoes, roasted or reduced to Pow?^; and used in the ease-hardening ,ot lrV" and coal and cinders are valuable as tuei, 01 in the mending of roads. Cess-poois are emptied by a pneumatic suction system, which nntigaita the offensiveness of the operation: the contents are mixed with ashes, and are therefore cus * oderized in fifteen minutes, and this mixture meets with a ready sale as a fertiliser, at litteen or twenty dollars a ton. In answer to objections against the use of ashes, the Superintendent 01 cleansing works says, " I have seen in our UcAu more refuse grounds, splendid tomatoes, P"™P" kins, citrons, and tobacco/growing trom a Deaoi pure coal-ash and cindeis."

TELEGRAPHIC.

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT).

DUNEDIN, this day. DEATH OF DR. HULME. Dr. Edward Hulme, for many years Otago Provincial Surgeon, died suddenly tins morning. lie was in apparent good health and tine spirits at breakfast this morning, but immediately afterwards was seized with \, a lit of apoplexy, and Dr. Burrows ™s£. called in. Dr. Hulme recovered sufficiently^ to converse, but soon experienced auothj3^jjj r fit, from which lie died in a few minutes. J FIRE BRIGADE COMPETITION In the Fire Brigade competition ■dontimied yesterday there were 13 competitors in the rush of fire Brigades : At Sinclair, Dunedin, 1 ; Adams, Ballarat, 2. At the third charge of the firemen, Rhodes, Dunedin, 1; Bagnell and Souson, Ballarat, 2; and third tramp of the firemen, one mile, Adams and Kerr, Ballarat, Ist and 2nd ; Faithful, Dunedin, 2, I» th,e JUiMei,' ami Hoso practice, Bttfla,iM

THE EVENING STAK THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28, 1876.



jftT 0 T I C E. The BANKS will be CLOSED on MONDAY and TUESDAY, the Ist and 2nd January, 1877. XT o t t c eT DRAPERY GOODS, NEW AND CHEAP !!! Tho undersigned have Purchased at Auction n LARGE LOT of NEW DRAPERY GOODS lust landed ex City of Auckland, tho whole of which having been bought at much under the usual Warehouse Rates, they can afford to offer to their Customers at Very Low Pkices. The Parcel comprises : — Grcv Calico, various qualities, from /3J-d yard Strong White Calico at fi yard, or 3/10 doz. 72-in. Grey Sheeting, 1/ yard, good quality 72-in. & 80-in. White Twill Sheeting 72-in., 80-in. & 90-in. Croydon Sheeting, 1/6 yard Huckaback Towels, good, /B each, 5/9 doz. White and Unbleached Damask and Damask Table Cloths, from 2/6 9/1 10/1 &11/1 Alhambra Quilts, good qualities, 3/11 Rough Brown Holland, from /6 yard Half-dressed ditto, superior quality, very cheap at/10£-and 1/ . Black Lustre, and superior quality Black Bril liantino Lustres New Prints, good patterns, at /4J, /si, and /6, very cheap Harvard Shirting, good quality, jl\ yard Fine Irish Linen, lot of Remnants, a bargain, from 1/1 yard Gents' Br. Cotton Half-hose do. do., merino feet Grey and Fancy Striped Merino Half-hose, and other goods too numerous to mention. All Purchasers of Drapery and Clothing should inspect our Stock, and prove that although not sellixg off, we are giving full value for S^ One Shilling in the £ returned on all pur chases of 20s. and upwards. KUSHBB.OOK & BRIDGMAN, Upper Quern-street, Auckland. T INOLEUM! I j CARPETS! (Ex 'Tamata1) FURNITURE! T INOLEUM !—Unsurpassed for Durability ; J__ Soft and warm to the feet. T INOLEUMT^Best covering ever invented __ for Dining Rooms, Halls, Oni ces, and Billiam Rooms. T INOLEUM !—A large variety of Patterns at JLJ the City Hall Arcade. T INOLEUM!—Fitted to any size or shape JLJ room by Hollo way fe Garlick. AllPETS!—Just landed, Velvet Pile, very handsome. ARPETS!—Beautiful Brussels, latest de signs, for Drawing Rooms. (pi ARPETS !— Kidderminster, largo variety. X.; Tapestry from 2/11 to 4/6. TCTURNITURE !—lnlaid Walnut-Centre Tables, J? Modern Drawtngroom Suites FURNITURE I—Sittingrooin Suites, Bedroom Furniture for all classes. ■ FURNITURE !-The best Show i n Auckland. Show Rooms 163 ft. long. T IBERAL DISCOUNT~to -*-< CASH PURCHASERS. "OUY your FURNITURE, DRAPERY, AND •*-* CLOTHING at this CITY HALL ARCADE. i HOLLOWAY & GABLICK, j, I?ROtfRIET.OBS,



TfXURNIIURE! FURNITURE ! JO Ladies and Gentlemen about to Furnish arc respect fully requested to inspect the Large Stock of DM A WING 800 M, DIN ING- -ROOM BEDROOM, AND GENERAL MO USE tt OLD FURNIT URE, In our New and SpaciousShoivrooms. T. & S. COOKE, 67, QUZEN STREET Adjoining Bank of New Zealand. Readers who need a fashionable coat, Or fancy vest and trousers, please to note. HL. POSSE-NI SICI E, In thanking his patrons mm the general public for past favours, begs to intimate that he has S3L REMOVED REMOVED TE& TO MORE CENTRAL PREMISES (First Shop in Shoutland-stiieet), AND HAS UST OPENED A NEW AND CHOICE SELECTION" OF TWEEDS, FANCY COATINGS AND VESTINGS, &c, &0., Sco. W" R A T T ?R AY'S YV O GREAT «ar CLEARING SALE -sa Is being CONTINUED THIS (CHRISTMAS WEEK, when there will be— Groat Reductions in Black Silks Great Reductions in Coloured Silks Great Reductions in Dress Skirts Great Reductions in Costumes Grcatißeductions in Underclothing Great Reductions in every Line in the Trade. Take note: THIS IS A THOROUGHLY GENUINE SALE. W. RATTRAY, Qitki^-street. TO TOURISTS AND VISITORS TO WAIKATO AND THE LAKES. BUGGIES (DOUBLE AND SINGLE), AND SADDLE HORSES, ALWAYS READY FOR HIRE AT REASONABLE CHARGES. Parties intending to go through to the Lakes provided with first-class animals by B. EDWARDS (Late of Cobb & Co.), LIVERY STABLER EEPER, Hamilton Hotel, Hamilton, Waika ho. C O S G ~R A V E & C O. Beg: to announce they will bring forward on MONDAY NEXT, 27tii NOVEMBER, A Fresh Lot of B A R G A I N S! ! ! Consisting of THEIR LATE SHIPMENT BY THE ORARI, Purchased at Home at Job Prices, together with the whole of their SUMMER DRAPERY & CLOTHING, REDUCED IN PRICE TO SUIT THE TIMES! Several Bale 3of CALICO, damaged by sea water, will be Sold under Invoice Price.



An Enabling Toxic—A medicated stimulant that enables those who use it to resist disease, the influences of exposure, sudden changes of temperature, and to perform an extra amount of intellectual and mechanical labour, may be called an enabling tonic. These enabling pro perties are possessed in a wonderful decree by that strength-creating and health perpetuating ally of nature, Udolpiio Woi.ke's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps. Mark Twain on Bad Musicians. — Tho musical public and general readers are cautioned not to purchase Weston's Wizard Oil and Magic Pills without carefully examining the outside wrapper—and be sure that thr? words "ISone Genuine without the Signature of the Proprietor, Frank Westo.y, Sydney, N.5.W.," are engraven thereon. Any other so-called preparations of mine, are unauthorized by me, and calculated to mislead the public.—Signed, Frank Weston. Sole Agents: Kempthorne, Prosser and Co.— Price, Half-a-crown.