SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER— \ % his Afternoon, 6.10 \ To-morrow Morning, 7.6 S rlN SET.—This Evening. 117. SUN RISE.—To-morrow "Morning, 4.49. MOONS AGE.—Full Moon, 31st, 9.38 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

Go-Ahead, s.s,, McGillivray, from Gisborne and Napier Blanche, schooner, Young, from Aitutaki December 30. Australia, P.M. Cos. s.s., 3000 tons, Cargill, from San Francisco, via Honolulu and Kan davu (English and American Mi.il) City of Sydney, P. .'.I. Cos. s.s., 3000 tons, from Sydney, via Kandavu Jane Douglas, s.s., Fraser, from Gisborne Argylc, s.s., from Wahgarei lona, s.s., from the North Minne Hare., schooner, from Wangaruru Helena, brigantine, Campbell, from Samoa and Tonga.

DEPARTURES.

iiowena, s.s., for Tauranga Loch Lee, 3-masted schooner, Stevenson, for Tonga

IMPORTS.

Per City of Sydney, from Sydney and Kan da vu :—225 bags flour, 8 bags mails.—Owen and Graham, Agents. Per City of Sydney from San Francisco : 225 gunnies flour.—Henderson & Macfarlane.

1< or Wellington :23 bags coffee; for Lyttclton 1 cases saddles, 1 package castings ; forDuncdin 3 cases fruit.—Owen & Graham.

Per Helena from Samoa: 70 tons cobra, 1 ton cocoanut oil, 250 gallons lime-iuice, 2500 cocoa nuts, 200 pine apples.—G. W. Owen, agents.

The s.s. City of Sydney awaits instructions from Sydney as to what her future movements are.

The s.s.'City of Sydney will leave for Sydney at noon to-morrow (Sunday).

The s.s. Taupo will not leave for the South till 5 o'clock to-morrow afternoon.

The. s.p. Jane Douglas arrived from the East Coast at an early Lour this morning. She brings several passengers, and a small quantity of general cargo.

Captain Urquhart, late Master of the Mary Melville, yesterday purchased a third share in the Schooner Jessie Henderson for £150.

The Schooner Blanche, arrived from Aitutake last night with a cargo of cotton copra, andfriut. Her voyage has occupied 21 days. The s.s. Go-Ahead arrived in harbour last ni;ht. Her voyage has been protracted by an accident to her machinery, one of her cylinders having been damaged. The steamer Oregon leaves Onehunga at 7 o'clock this evening for an excursion on the Manukau.

The s.s. Taupo leaves Onehunga for the South at 1 o'clock this afternoon.

The schooner Queen, leaves at once Hokianga. We observe the s.s. Scotchman will run on .the Ist and 2nd of January to Riverhead, at a cheap fare, tho return tickets b<>ing only 2s each. Excursionists will be in time for the 11 o'clock train to Helens villc. The-sand hills and winding meanderings of the Kaipara River are well worth a visit- Several hours will be allowed to the excursionists at Helensville,

t£jThe barque Nouveau Nomade is unloading her cargo of stone by means of lighters. The s.s. Southern Cross left Duncdin on Thurs day night for Auckland via Napier. The s.s. Hinemoa was at Russell when the lona left. Sho was to lay a buoy at Cavalli pas sage and then come on to Auckland.

Passengers: Messrs It. 11. Nolan, Gribbon, M. David, Dunlop, Shaw, and Miss David. The brigantine, Helena, arrived from Samoa to-day. She loft Auckland Friday 13th October, reaching Tonga on the sth November, making a passage of 22 days. Left "Vavan for Somoa on the 23rd ult,, arriving on the 28th inst. Left the Navigators Group for Auckland on the 15th December, experienced light S. \V. winds with heavy rain for the first four days, from thence steady S. E. trades till making the land on Frklif", fromtbenco light, N.E. wind until arrival. Captain Farquhar, of the Tonn, reports that th?. s'sl tiers at P.uvngaronga saw a large ship off the North Cap 2on Tuesday la-it. She was apparently bound to this port. We arc at a loss to say what ship this is. The lona pas3ed the Orari off the Little Barrier last night.

CHIE F POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under:— For Thames, this d?.y, at 5.30 p.m., and on Tuesday next, at 5.30 p.m. For Taranaki, and Southern Provinces, per Taupo, this day at 7.30 p.m. For'iYyphena, per Three Brothers, on Tuesday next, at 9 a.m. For Gisborne and Napier, per Jane Douglas, on Wednesday next, at 3 p.m. For Gisborne and Napier, per Go-Ahead, on Tuesday next, at 3 p.m. For London (direct), per Rapido, on Tuesday next, at 9 a.m. For Chili, per Taruaya, on Wednesday next, at 11 a.m.

For Russell, Wangaroa, and Mongonui, per, lona, on Wednesday next, at 4 p.m. For Wanjrarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarei and Mangapai, per Arg/le, on Wednesday next, at 3 P.m. For Whitianga, Taurapga, and Opotiki, per Rowena, on Wednesday next, at 3 p.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Taranaki, on Thursday next, at 10 a.m. For Gisborne and Napier, per Southern Cross, on Thursday next at 3 p.m. Per Hawea, on Monday, Bth January, as under:— For India, China, Mediterranean ports, and Continent of Europe, at 3.20 p.m. For Taranaki, Southern Provinces, and Australian'Cclqijies, at 1.20 p.m. For United Kingdom, via Suez and South ampton, for letters, specially addressed, at 4.20 p.m. For United Kingdom, via Brindi3i, and late letters for Southern Provinces and Melbourne, will be received till 4.20 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newipapcrs, at 2.30 a.m. For Australian Colonies, per City of Sydney, this day. at 7 p.m. N.B.—Monday, Ist January, being a Post oflice holiday, the mails usually made up on that day, will close to-day, at 7 p.m. S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster.

MARRIAGE.

UOWELL—WIGMORE.—On the 20th instant, at Auckland, by the Rev. Dr. Wallis, William S. Ho well, son of tlic late Nicholas Howell. Esq., of Canada \V«st, to Mary, the eldest da-ighter of Ltobcrt VVigmore, Esq., J.P-, of Sunnyside, Mercury Bay.

BERRY—ASIIDOWN.—On the 20th instant, at the residence of the bride's father, A. J. Berry, telegraphist, Drury, youngest son of Mr. J). Berry, late of H.il. Customs, to Elizabeth, youngest daughter of Mr. W. Ashdown, of Drury.

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 1876.

for the c.-ivse th^t lacks assistance, Tor the wrong th.'it needs resistance* I-'or the future in the distance, Ami the jjood that we can do.

EAHLY this morning the mail steamer arrived from San Francisco with small-pox on board. Our little community, always sensitive as regards anything affecting its health, was immediately on gui vivc. Officialism was in great request. Where is the man under authority who can act ? was the cry from one end of the town to the other. The Board of Health must act. was the answer, and put the ship in quarantine, preventing every passenger from landing, and every infected thing. But then where was the Board of Health ? Captain Daltly was appealed to, but lie said he had nothing to do with a Board of Health, Mr Whitaker was the man. So off set official ism to Mr Whitaker, when he said he was not the Board of Health, Mr Reader Wood ■was the man to go to. Then officialism, by that time out of breath, reached Mr Reader Wood, and wanted him to act. He told them he had nothing to do with the matter ; that there had been a Central Board of Health in Auckland, with full power to act on the spot in all cases of emergency, but he shewed them the Public Health Act of last session, which came into force on tjic Ist of November last, and by which the old Act was repealed, centralising all power in the hands of the Governor and a Central Board at Wellington. He pointed to section 97 of the Act, which provides that the Governor may, from time to time, make all necessary orders and arrangements as shall be deemed expedient upon any unforeseen emergency, or with respect to any vessel arriving, having infectious or contagious disease on board, &c, &c. Mr Wood also pointed to section 8, which constituted the Colonial Secretary for the time being President of the Central Board of Health. As Dr Pollen, the Colonial Secretary, happens at present to be in Auckland, he was enabled by a judicious use of the telegraph, wires to act in the emergency. But, as the Governor had not" delegated his powers to any one in Auck land, very serious injury might have happened to the Avhole colony of New Zealand by this unworkable system of centralizing all power in Wellington, and governing the whole colony from one remote centre —instead of entrusting the adminis tration to local bodies—a system which will cause no <nd of public inconvenience, dis satisfaction, and, discontent. We learn that every account, no matter how small, will for the future have to be sent to Wellington for payment, and will be paid from that happy city.

The " Daily Southern Cross," the oldc3t news paper in New Zealand, was today issued for the last time*as a separate journal. On Tuesday next, it will bo published with the ." Herald " in an enlarged form, and under the joint proprietorship of Messrs. Wilsons and Horton. By this one stroke the mercantile community of. i Auckland is relieved from an annual tax of at 1 least £10,000 a year, and receive better value for their diminished outlay. The step is one wholly consistent with the tendency of modern journa lism. The demand for increased excellence, the growing co3t of telegrams, larger outlay on labour, and other unroproductive expenses, all tend to reduce the number of journals, and increase their size and the costliness of produc tion. In small communities a number of little prints frequently spring into existence, and it is by no means uncommon to find such anomoljcs as have been exhibited in Auckland, where three or four journals have harassed business people, while one morning and one evening paper are found ample to supply the wants of Sydney. But as the demands upon newspapers increase, the weakest go to the wall and the best are preserved by a survival of the fittest. Newspaper properties differ from all other commercial undertakings. No amount of outlay by the proprietor can increase the market value of the article offered for sale. The whole benefit of the £200 to £250 a week absorbed in producing a tolerably good paper ia offered to every reader for tha penny or two ptmea that may he charged for each copy. On the other band, advertisers oy supporting, say, for example I #*« "Qroaa^fMft "Her&Wf go%rQ C iso}» ■

same service in return as they will now receive from the one. The infatuation for starting a number of little newspapers often developed in small communities, arises from simple ignorance of the business, Tho evil, however, very speedily works out its own cure, and Uiobo who arc carried away by the newspaper fever, purchase their experience pretty dearly, lhe "Cross" to-day, in announcing the amalgamation deals with this feature of newspaper enter prise. The balance-sheets of the old Company proved that the annual receipts were between £13.000 and £14,000 a year, and yet there waf a loss upon the Company's business. lhe reason is plain: the expenditure is mainly in labour, telegrams, etc, which contribute nothing to stock. Upon the opening of tho European cable, the Melbourne "Argus" complained that its expenses had been increased £1,000 a year at •one stroke, without a sixpence of counter balancing return, and similar expenses must force journals in the small centres of New Zealand into amalgamation, lhe " Cro.-s " to-day says :—" Regarding the career of tho "Cross," we need only remark that the company recently wound up, lost £8,070 of capital in three years and a half, and only by the two papers " working together" has it been of late transformed into a profit-paying concern. Another fact deserves to bo recorded, and it is a singular one. During the lirst year the Company took over Ihe business the circulation declined rapidly, although it was then supposed to be a very popular paper; but during the time when the "Cross" was most denounced for^lts politics its circulation steadily advanced." Ihe last sentence explodes another of those rocks upon which dabblers in newspapers split. There is a prevailing idea that a newspaper lives by its polities. No greater mistake was ever nursed. Newspaper property is as pure a commercial venture as selling cheese or butter. II is true that in many respects a journal occu pies a higher sphere, and performs a public part important in proportion to the widoness ot its inuueuco. But from a proprietor's point of view, it is his trade, and he must manage it honestly as a commercial concern. Any one who has ever tried working a journal as a political party organ, or a private hobby, or any publisher who, like the old man with the donkey, tries to run upon the wave of every passing opinion, will very soon tlud himself in; the Bankruptcy Court.

FIRST MEETING OF COUNTY COUNCILS.

WiC understand that a telegram bus been received from Wellington by the lion. I*1. Whitaker, stating that a warrant was gazetted yesterday, fixing the first mooting of County Councils, of all the Counties in tho Auckland Provincial District, for noon of Tuesday, January 9th.

A portion of the news by the San Fran cisco mail will be found on the fourth page. Lady Gordon, Misa Gordon, and tho younger members oF the family of the Governor of Fiji arrived in Auckland this morn ing by the City of Sydney on a visit to Sir George Grey.

Tlic Rev. I). VV. Runciman will conduct the morning service in St. Andrew's Church to-morrow. The evening service will, we believe, lie taken by the IJev. D. Bruce.

The subjects of services at the several churches of Auckland will be found in the third page of the present issue. The Sun day evening service for Ihc people will bo held in the Wellesley-street rooms at the usual hour. Yen. Archdeacon Maunscll will deliver the address. Cablegrams from Australia show thai the English Eleven in their first innings against Victoria went out for 130. Victo ria made 190, but appears to Ik; faring worse in the second inning, four wickets having gone down for live runs. Owing to the absence of any com munication with the ship up to the time «if going to press, we are unable to give the passenger list. Mr Klrby, agent for (lie Georgia Minstrels, who came in the City of Sydney from Honolulu, could not ascertain whether the troupe was on board or not. Some excitement was caused in the vicinity of Mechanics' Bay, this morning, by a swimming mutch, -which took place between Mr il. Scents and a lad scarcely 13 years of age, named Coughlan. Theboy was victor in a similar aquatic contest several weeks ago, lionet? the large amount of interest displayed. The distance to be accomplished was 800 yards. Scouts oh-

taincd a slight lead at starting, which he maintained until the finish, winning by about three yards. We understand tha< .another match is on the tapis, when a local comic singer will be Coughlan's opponent. At the Edwardcs-street chapel to-morrow evening, the Itev. William JPoltcr will preach. This young preacher has for Home time past, been labouring very acceptably in the districts outside of Christchurch, but having obtained leave of absence to visit

his relatives in tin's city, has consented ti officiate to-morrow evening in the above named church. We have no doubt but that lie will have a large and appreciative con gregation.

The "Church Gazette" for the first montl

of the new year is at hand, and, besides a large amount of very readable matter, the number contains a supplement of twenty pages, filled with important information respecting tho proceedings of the third Session of the Seventh Synod of the Diocese of Auckland, with the members' names in alphabetical order and other facts, forming acompleto guide, well worthy of preservation. The ordinary " Gazette" includes Diocesan and Church Intelligence ; an interesting letter of gratitude from the Melanesian youths to Dr. Cowie, expressive; of their feel ings. There is also a series of extracts from the diary of a missionary, which will be found highly interesting in relation to Melanesian life. The articles are on Church Legislation of 1874, and a Board of Theological Studies. Notices of new books and extracts therefrom are continued, and the monthly school lessons, which have been found of such assistance to Sunday school teachers. Altogether, the Now Year number is promising, of a harvest of ripe intelligence throughout the year.

Mr Francis gave an excellent luncheon to the architect, and the' various contractors and workmen in his—new warelum.se, in Elliott-street, to-day, the report of which will appear in our Monday's issue. The popular life-like comedy of ," Our Boys " was reproduced last evening in (he Iheatre Royal, at the particular request of a large number" of citizens. We' have frequently noticed the characters of this comedy in previous issues, and need only say that tiie characters were avcll sustained.

When the mail left San Francisco, Nell, the Californian Diamond, was playing at the California Theatre, in "The Little Detective."

There has been left at this oflice a specimen of senvlctTmnncr beans grown by Mr. E. Burgess, ot Hill-street, Newmarket, which arc about the largest we have ever seen. Each pod is fully nine inches long, and is perfectly tender, and edible.

On " Holiday Making," a correspondent writes : — "Sir,— lt is said that "all work and no play makes Jackr, dull boy," but we may reverse it in Auckland, where all play and no work will soon makf. Jack a poor boy. No doubt some of our pleasure-makers, or in other words money makers, will blow themselves out largely with the imagination, that they are true friends of the working people by finding amusement for them during the numerous holidays at this season of the year, when every inducement is thrown in your way to uplift the mind from work and go pleasure-seeking. But whatdoesall this pleasure amount to ? We lose the day's wages by leaving work, go a i'ow miles by rail, and pay sixpence for being allowed to pass through a small gate into a grass paddock." Our correspondent goes •on to suggest that the proprietor of Ellerslie Gardens should devote his day's takings on New Year's Day to local charities. The proposition is perfectly absurd. Only on holidays ban Mr. Graham any chance of recouping his heavy out lay on the beautiful Ellcrslie pleasure grounds, and even then the return cannot possibly be commensurate with the outlay.

To the Editor: Sir,—ln reference toyou report ers remarks in last evening's paper, concerning me disappointing the public at entertainments where T have boon announced to appear, allQw me to give it a perfect denial, as I have, on '"fell occasions, except one (and then I was very ill) come up.'to the mark, but on this occasion it was quite a mistake, and not altogether on my part. It happened thus : I was at' Lorne-strcet Hall on Tuesday evening last, rendering assistance on the stage, when Mr Ward asked me if I would ffive them a help (on this benefit), and I said yes, but said nothing about rccltixig ; and I was there, but was not aware that my name was on the programme until some time after I was in the Hall, and it was then too late for me to recite, as I was not prepared,—Yours respect* fV#y» Si BjtQAVN,

Mr. Alison, of Willow Grove Gardens, will have a band on ground on Monday, and. will be able to ( supply Strawberries in unlimited quantities.

Mrs Keating desires to thank the Satur eay|Nights Entertainment Committee and those ladies and gentlemen who took so much interest and trouble in getting up the benefit for her relief, also those amateurs who so kindly lent their assistance in making the entertainment attractive by their excellent performance. Mrs Keating acknowledges with many thanks the receipt of £7 from the above performance.

As Mr. TC. W. Ward will shortly bo; leaving this city for Sydney, his amateur friends, in consequence of his many efforts in the cause of benevolence, have resolved to givo him a compli mentary benciit concert on Monday evening next. The programme for the occasion is replete with literary and vocal attractions. The con cert will bo under the patronage of Captain Burns, tho Artillery, and the officers of tho local lodges "of Forestry and Oddfellowship.

POLICE COURT.—Tins Day.

(Boforc R. C. Barstow, Esq., It. M.) A HAPPY TRIO.

Samuel Butcher, William Cox, and Henry Vaulan, -were fined 5/ each for being drunk last night. Tins OLD MAN CRAIG. G-corgo Craig, who has been drunk for three weeks, -was charged under tho Vagrancy Act, with being an habitual drunkard. The old man pleaded guilty; ho was found helpless in a doorway at midnight. Six month's imprisonment with hard labour. ASSAULT AT I'AHNELL. William Cross was charged with-assaulting John Brown, by striking him with a stick, on the 28th inst. Mr. Tyler said ho appeared for complainant, but as Dr. Goldsbro had sent in a certificate, stating that Cross was unable to appear, he would ask for an adjournment. Adjourned until Friday next. STEALING! A RT7LK. William Jones was Charged with stealing a rule, value ls,t he property of Charlea 15. Edwards, on the 28th inst. Prisoner: Speak up, Mr Clerk, I'm awfully doaf. Constable Clarke: You are charged with stealing a rule. Prisoner: Not guilty. Charles H. Edwards, of the Waitomata hotel, said that he employed prisoner on his premises, and purchased a rule for prisoner's use. Tho rule was missing, and not being satisfied he went to Mr Xcumagen's, and discovered the rule. Mrs Edwards gave him a shilling to pay for BOine green cord, and prisoner spent the money upon beer, and got tlie cord at Messrs Morrin's to his (prosecutor's) credit. Henry Goodacrc, shopman, deposed that prisoner pledged tho rule for a shilling at Mr Ne urn agon's shop. Prisoner : Constable, fetch my papers and accounts out of the guard-room, and I'll soon put this matter to rights. Tho papers were brought, and after fumbling them over and over, the prisoner said,/' Your Worship, I have not got my specs; will any body lend me a pair?" His Worship said lie saw nothing in tho papers touching the charge. .Seven days'imprisonment witli "hard labour. A MAD BEGINNING. Walter W. Kingsmim, was charged with vio lonlly assaulting his wife.-Isabella. on the 29th, by threatening to annihilate her. The defendant, a youg man of 18, pleaded guilty, but lie had no intention of carrying his threat into elocution, Ordered to find sureties, himself in £50, and t wo others in £25 each, to keep the peace for six months. MR. CROWE. William FranciH Crowo, on remand, was charged with stealing a saddle and bridle, value £1. the property of .John Smith, alsoasaddloand bridle of the same value, the property of Edward Me Ivor*. Prisoner pleaded 7101 guilty. John Smith, farmer of Titirangi, was in Auck land on the i!7th, and put bin horse into Mr Anderson's paddock, anil the Muddle and bridle in the shed. On missing them lie applied Cy the constable who accompanied him to Ounye's yard, where they found the saddle and Juridle nearly covered with docks.

Constable Abrams tfare corroborative evi denco. Up took prisoner into custody ; ingoing to tin- station, he said although ho was a Crowo, he was not as black as lie was painted; and he had more cunning in his little, head tlun all the b— police in Auckland. Mrs. Crows declared that prisoner was In bod by 9 o'clock. John liowden saw the prisoner in the Star Hotel nt 11 o'clock that night. .John Auclorson, grocer, deposed that Ihe saddles and bridles wore Bo.fc.in his shed at II o'clock. Constable Clarke related a few rjminiscenses of the prisoner, when at Newton. Prisoner said the were fortalnly found upon his promises, but how they same there was beyond liih comprehension. * Mr. Kdwurd Mc(Jee, farmer from the same district, ffiivc similar evidence to Mint Of Mr. Smith, and the constable repeated bin statement. After .sonic further evidence. His Worship found the prisonewKulJly. and Btsntcncfdnbim to ciKht months' imprisonment* four for each oll'cncc. AI.r.KGKI) KMfSEZZU'.MKVr. Frederick Northup, was brought up on Bivcra' charges of embezzlement while in the employ of the Auckland and Mercer Kailiray, vi/.., on May Ith, £3 ISs; May Hlh, &i 15s; .Tune lOlh, £;'> IDs; Juno l'Mt, £1 las; and June 2tth, £2 8s Id, thr property of the. Queen. Sir. Hrooklleld appeared for tlic prosecution. August uo V. Macdonnld, tfetlaral manager of the Auckland Railways, deposed that In the nioiil hs of May amlUune, Xortluip was employed on the railway as traffic manager, and that it wns his duty, while in that capacity to issue, season tickets, to receive monies, and account for them at the Hank of New Zealand. (Mr Macdonald her put in the several books in which, the regular entries had been mtidn). Ho had instructed Mr John P. Clark, the present clerk, to ex amine tho accounts, and lie had found them substantially correct. Ho had a ticket issued to Mr Wm. [i&ttray, bearing date May I,for the sum of £3Jls Ad for six months between Auckland and Rcmuera. The tiokct was signed by the prisoner, but was not ac counted for; it had no consecutive number, and was not entered in tho usual wriy. Mr Macdon ald tlirn produced tickets which land not heen accounted for, viz., to A. J. Dickey, May Sth. £2 J")s; to Thomas Short, for a year on June 10th. £3 10.-s, and other*. The prisoner was dismissed at the end of July. Mr Wm. Uattray, draper, Mr Adams James Dickey, of the Native Lands ohice, and Mr Thomas Short, draper, deposaC that they paid for tlie, tickets as above.

John Potter Clark deposed that he was traffic clerk on the line,and harljoxamined A B C and I) books at the request of the munkger, bus found neither of the accounts paid hj the preceding wiinesses entered in either of tic britoks.

The charges having been proved against the prisoner, the depositions weroiroatl over, and the prisoner committed for trial

ALLECUS r> EMBBZZLKXBNT

John Piko, was charged with iirceny of wear ing apparel and articles of doaostic use, from the dwelling house of Roderick Mncdonald, value £17, on tho1 21st inst. This caso was remanded to thcThamcs.

CABLEGRAMS.

ENGLISH CRICKETERS V. VICTORIA

SYDNEY.^—THIS DAY,

The Englishmen scored 135." Selby made top score with 32. \ In the Victorians second innings the five best wickets are down for throb runs. SYDNEY, December 30. THE ALL ENGLAND CRICKET

MATCH. When the stumps were drawn yesternight the Victorian wickets were drawn for 27. The bowling and fielding of me Englishmen was magiifiecut.

FIRE AT DRURY.

A ftOUSE at Drury belonging to Mr A. Buckland, and occupied by Mr E. Murphy, was burnt down at noon to-day. The fire originated in the chimney, and a spark fall ing on- the roof ignited it and, the timber being all very dry and hot, it was impos sible to save the building. Assistance was soon on the spot, but all that could be done was to save as much of the furniture as pos sible. Tlic end of a shed within a few feet of the house took fire, but after great exer tion on the part of the neighbours the fire was extinguished and the Building was saved.

ELLERSLIE GARDENS.

New Year's Day win bo observed at Ellerslie Gardens, in true holiday fashion. A capital programme of athletic, and other sports is advertised in our columns, and the ordinary attractions of the gardens are sufficient to cause the youth and beauty of Auckland to flock there for a day's recrea tion. Those who do not appreciate the keen excitement of the race course, will find in the shady retreats ami greenswards of EUerelie Gardens, a quiet and refreshing pleasure which will ifford a delightful con? trust to the busy routine of daily toil. The entries for the Maiden Race, and the 300 yards and Mile Handicaps, will be taken thi? evening a.t Mr, Pe.rivin'j3

SPORTING NOTES AND ANTICIPA TIONS.

During the last two days speculation on the remaining two days racing, of the Summer meeting has been very lively. No exact list, or quotations can be given as the betting has generally been of a fancy description. Wager ing on the doublo event, Cup and Steeplechase being tho favourite medium. Ariel and King fisher have shown strong symptoms of vitality for the Cup, and in all probability both will appear at the post. An extonsive commission, probably from the stable, has been worked in favor of Mr Watt's horse, and he is now as good a favourite as Danebury, who has declined a little. A very little outlay would, however, soon place either Kingfisher or Isaac Walton at the head of affairs, but Mr Walters' intentions up to the present are veiled in obscurity. Eangi and Tui are, I believe, not starters, and the Don is spoken of as doubtful. The Grand Stand Handicap is voted the worst effort Mr Handlcy has yet given shape to. Tho first idea was that Isaac Walton was thrown in, but last night Fallacy came with a rush, and was backed up to 2to 1. As the mare has to concede 221bs1. fer tho beating she gave Isaac Walton in the Railway Plate. I cannot see that she is entitled to her position, but it is wonderful what money will do. Perfume and Tommy Dodd are fancied, and to these four it is likely the race will be confined.

My selections are :— • Cur.—Mr Walters' selected probably King shor ; Danebury, 2 ; Ariel, 3. Q-bani) Stand Handicap.—Perrume,l; Isaac Walton, 2 ; Fallacy, 3. There is no betting at present on the Maiden Plate or Publicans' Purse, and even at this late date it is quite impossible to ascertain owners' intentions. Of course, if Mr. Walters pulls out Fanny Fisher colt for the former, he will win. HoTsruic.

Arrival of the s.s. Australia with the English Mail.

The Vessel in Quarantine

Small-Pox on Board

Arrival of the City of Sydney.

SIIOBTLY after daylight this morning the signal for a steamer coming in was hoisted at the signal flagstaff, and about half past five the further information was conveyed by the Hags that the approaching vessel "was the English Mail boat. Those who were early enough about to see the signals were rejoicing that the mail had arrived a day before its time when their satisfaction was spoilt by the hoisting of the yellow flag indicating that disease was on board. The melancholy intelligence thus afforded was confirmed by the steamer herself heading for Motuihi as soon as she appeared inside the Heads. The public excitement created by this incident was intensified by the facttne boat was seen to be the s.s. Australia, the direct vessel from San Franciflco, and not the City of Sydney, which was the vessel expected with the Australia's mails transhipped at Kandavu. Any number of conjectures were started as to t/io cause of the Australia coming on here instead of going to Sydney, and the most generally favoured theory was that the captain had received instructions to change his route in anticipation of the abolition of the forked and coastal portions of the service. Hut another surprise was in store, for scarcely had the Australia ap peared when another steamer was signalled, and at eight o'clock the City of Sydney came round the Meads, and steaming up the harbour anchored o!l' the man-of-war ground without firing the customary gnu. Our representative was on board shortly after suebronght up, and learned that the two steamers had met in the ordinary way at Kandavu, but a case of small-pox being on hoard the Australia, it had been decided not to tranship the mails and passengers from the latter. This part of the story will b;' best told in the captain's report- furnished us by Mr Lymnn, the courteous purser of the City of Sydney.

Report of thk City of Svdnky

The B.s. City of .Sydney left Sydney De cember sth, 8.15 p.m. (dischargedpilotß.3o) with 139 bags instil, '27 passengers (cabin), and 4(J steerage, and 70 32-40 tons cargo. Arrived at Kanduvn, Fiji, 22nd, 7.55 a.m. Transferred mails, passengers, and freight into Co.'fl stcamsbip Zealandin "which arrived same day from New Zealand ports hound for San hraucisco. On 26th, at 6.30 a.m., Co.'s steamer Australia arrived in port (fnnn San I'Yancisco, December, Sth) and was ])laced in quarantine by Ilealtli Officer, having a supposed case of small pox on board. The commanders not deem ing it advisable to transfer mails, passengers, <c., for New Zealand, both ships left for Auckland at 1.40 p.m. same day. They Kept together all the -way down, the Australia making slightly faster headway in the smooth water and arriving an hour before her companion. Passengers by the City of Sydney :— 0. R. Walsh, Professor Lcverodge, A. (J. Webster, Master Webster, Dr. G. Smith, Lady Gordon and family, Miss Gordon Cummings, A. P. Maudsley., Thomas .Andrews, Air Kirby, J. Wurts.

"JJAs soon aa the circumstances connected with the arrival of the two mail steamers were fully understood, (he local agents Messrs* Owen and (Jrnliam, took measures to ascertain the intentions of the Govern ment. Mr Wliitaker at once telegraphed to Wellington, to the Premier, on the matter, and about noon the agents rceeived instruc tions to .send both boats on to Sydney, and to forward the Southern portion of the Aus tralia's mails, after fumigation, by the s.R. Tnupo, which will be detained in the Manukau till 5 o'clock to-morrow afternoon for the purpose/ The object of sending Iho City of Sydney to Sydney is to provide for next month's outward boat in case of the Australia being detained in quarantine beyond the sailing date. The inaiJs and pas sengers of the Australia will be landed this afternoon, and the work of fumigating the ! mails will be proceeded with without delay. | How long the passengers, of whom there arc thirty-five, will be detained at the island, it is of course impossible to say. We learn from the agents that the discoS3 broke out four days before the ship reached Kandavu Only one case has appeared up to*the present time. The disease took a malignant form, and the patient succumbed yesterday. So far as it is known at present, the rest of the passengers are in good health! The unfortunate man was a boatman, who went through to 'Frisco from Fiji as one of the crew. Mr. Whitaker and Major Atkinson were still in communication with one another at mid-day, and any further arrangements will no doubt "be fully advertised. The difficulty in respect to the Board of Health is fully alluded to else where. This afternoon, l)r Philson, actin<> m his capacity as Health Officer, paid an official visit to the quarantine sta tion in the Custom's launch. This even ing, one of the North Shore Ferry Co.'s steamers, chartered by the agents, will go down and take a .supply of fresh meat and other provisions for the Australia and her passengers. The Australia will probably i-«' c Sydney to-morrow. As considerable difficulty would be experienced in landing cargo in quarantine, we understand it has been determined to send the Australia's cargo to Sydney.

ENGLAND.

AMERICAN SYMPATHY WITH RUSSIA.

London, December sth.-1-The Berlin cor. respondent of the* "Post" says ;—•" General surprise is felt at the address delivered to the Czar by Baker, the American Minister on Jus return from the United States The address expressed the sympathy of the United States for the Czar and his Eastern policies.

CONSTANTINOPLE TO BE OCCUPIED The " Financier " states editorially •— thT^^^ry confidently the course the British Cabinet lias resolvott upon if gUSSia invades Turkey. In such case a Umish army corps will occupy ConsHnti jyfiS af + W it against all \t£sF% is caiQuhitga tjii\t u.9t wm than 85,000

troops are needed, and British engineer officers are already making surveys for thorough defense of the Turkish capital. The "Financier" adds :" England s object is not to participate in war between Turkey and Russia, who may fight out their quarrel whether in Asia or Europe, but to protect Constantinople and the Dardanelles from seizure by Russia. England would simply hold Constantinople in pledge tem porarily on behalf of other powers and the world at large, and as soon as a neutral state was formed on the Bosphours, or such other arrangments effected as Europe may ultimately determine upon, for the wardenship of the Dardanelles, England would willingly withdraw." Prince Bismarck arrived in London on NTnE LOST SHIP MANCHESTER. London, Nov. 16th.— The vessel Man chester, which was lost off Akyab with all bands except the captain and steward, while on her voyage from Liverpool to Calcutta, was a ship. She was formerly the Inman line steamer City of Manchester. _ She had been sold, and converted into a sailing ship. Thirty-two of her crew are probably lost. ENGLISH TROOPS TOLD OFF FOR

SERVICE. London, Nov. 16th—The " Globe," this evening, announces that it hears from a trustworthy source that 21 battalions of in fantry, 7 regiments cavalry, and 80 guns have already been told off as a first British force for the East, should government con sider their services necessary, for protection of British interests. Soldiers on furlough in Ireland have been ordered to join their regiments. All fur loughs are temporarily suspended. The authorities of the Davenport Dock Yard have received orders to prepare the ironclad turret ships Cyclops and Hydra for immedi ate active service. Great activity prevails in Woolwich Arsenal. An imperative order was issued yesterday that the production of rifle-ball cartridges' be increased to two millions per week. *■ London, November 22.—The "Pall Mall Gazette," " Standard," and other Conservative journals express com plete distrust of the Czar's pacific assurancs, as expressed to Lord Loftus, British Embassador to St. Petersburg, in his in terview with his Majesty on November 2nd.

RUSSIA,

WAR PREPARATIONS IN RUSSIA AND TURKEY.

London, Nov. 15th.—The " Standard's " Vienna special says: "The force which Russia will mobilize in accordance with the recent ordnance, numbers 195,292 infantry, 20,788 cavalry, (>24 rifled brecch loading cannon." A Berlin dispatch says : " Preparations have been made for the concentration of the Russian army of the Vistula, which is to be reinforced by the Imperial Guards." There is reason to be lieve that Russia will call in next year's contingent of recruits, numbering 200,000, immediately, instead of waiting till April. The " Globe " states that all railroad com panies in Russia are ordered to place their lines at the absolute disposal of the govern ment. Large hospitals are being established, and physicians in the south of Russia have been invited to enter the army.

The Ltothschi ds are said to have promised lo advance Russia money. The loan will not be made public. Russia's conditions are said, on change, to be so favorable that the Rothschilds can easily dispose of flic loans privately.# December Ist— The dispatch to the News reports that the commander of the Black Sea ileet, addressing his men, concluded with the followingfft'ords : " This year you are destined to light against the enemies of our religion. Remember that the sailors of the ]>lack Sea gained glory at Sebastopol. "

Large portion.'-; of trains suitable for cross ing the Danube are arriving in Bessarabia, and being sent on to I'nitli. The " Times" Vienna despatch explains that there are two centers of military preparations in southern Russia. Kisheneff is tlie head quarters of tk.e operating army, while at Odessa 120,000' men are being collected under General Todtleben, ■who Is charged with the defense of the Black Sea coast. It is stated that a park of siege artillery, con sisting of ninety-two guns, is being formed at Chotyn, on the river Dneister.

THE CZAR'S EXPLANATION TO ENG LAND.

London, Nov. 21st. — The Foreign Office publishes v dispatch in which Lord Loftus, British Embassador to Russia, reports the datails of the audience.he had with the Czar, on November 2nd. The Czar said lie had sent an ultimatum to the Porte, because he feared that the discomfiture of the Servian army might be caused by .atrocities. The Porte had by a scries of manueuvcrs frus trated aJI attempts at pacification. The present state of tilings was intolerable, and unless Europe "was prepared to act. firmly aud energetically , he would be obliged to act alone. lie regretted to see that an in veterate suspicion, a continual fear of Russia's aggression still exists in England. The. Czar reminded Lord Loftus that lie had on several occasions, given most solemn assurance that lie desired no conquests, that he had not thejJßniallcst wish or intention to acquire Constantinople. Such an acquisi tion would be a misfortune for Russia. The following are the exact words of that portion of the despatch referring to Constantinople : "The Czar pledged his sacred word of honor in the most earnest and solemn manner, that he had no intention of acquiring Constanti nople, and that if necessity should force him to occupy a portion of Bulgaria, it would only ])C provisionally, until the peace and safety of the Christian population were secured. The Czar could not under stand that when he had given every proof iliat he had no desire for conquest, why there should not be a perfect understanding between -England and Kussia, based upon the policy of peace, which would be equally beneficial to their mutual interests and the intorsts of Europe generally. The Czar said that nothing could be more absurd than the intentions attributed to Kussia of the future conquest of India which wns a perfect impossibility. He deeply deplored the distrust, manifested in England, earnestly requested me do my utmost to dispel it, and charged me to convey to Her Majesty's Government the solemn assurances lie had given me." The dispatch also states that, in regard to the rumors that Servia^aud Routnania had demanded that they should bo erected into independent kingdoms, the Czar said there was no intension of estab lishing any such kingdoms, and that such a course would be folly. He had permitted officers to go to Servia, provided they left the Russian service, in the hope of calmino the agitation in Russia. ° iffhe foregoing dispatch was verified by 1 rnicc Gortschakon" before its transmiseoii to Lord Derby, and approved as correctly representing the views expressed by the Czar. Lord Derby replied, instruct in <>• Lord Loftus to inform the Czar and Prince Gortschakotf, that the Queen aud her government received the Czar's assurances with the greatest satisfaction. The Russian government having, requested the publica tion oi tins correspondence, as it contained assurances of a nature to tranquilizo the Public feeling, Lord Derby informs Lord Lottus that he granted this request, con sidering the publication opportune, in view ot the mobilization of Russian forces and the issue of a loan.

Torpedoes have Leon placed at the approaches to the ports of Odessa. Kentch bobastopol and Eschakoft" UNEASINESS IN RUSSIAN FIN AN-

CIAL CIRCLES. It being anticipated in Russia that the domestic loan must soon become a forced loan, the tone of the St. Petersburg Bourse is again falling, Trade is in a perfect state ot collapse and bankruptcy. Numerous deposits aiQ rapidly being vitlulmvn from

RUSSIAN TROOPS TO PASS THROUGH ROUMANIA. Paris, Dec. 4th.—A despatch to "Le Temps" from Guirgevo says : " Prefects have been notified of the early arrival, on their -way to the Danube, of 150,000 Rus sian troops, who are to pass through Rou mania. TURKEY. INUNDATION AT ADRIONOPLE.- MERGED° USANr> HOUSES SUB- December 2nd.—A special from Constan tinople says an inundation has occurred at Adnonople, by which oue thousand houses were swept away. TURKEY'S PREPARATIONS The "Political Corresponderiza" reports that besides 150,000 men of the first and second class of Turkish reserves, who still remain to be called out, 200,000 of the third class aro to.be called out to replace the regular troops in thefgarrison. Mukhtar Pasha is concentrating twenty battalions of Turkish troops at Carinav, near Dcrgatta on the Austrian frontier. The troops will embark for Constantinople. TURKS EVACUATING BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA. London, Dec, sth.—The "Times" Berlin, dispatch reports that nearly all the Tiu-kish troops have left Bosina and Herzegovina Austria has ordered the occupation of the Transylvanian and Moldavian passes, the moment the Russians enter Moldavia. ROUMANIA. The Roumanian government is preparing everything requisite for calling out the territorial troops and militia, which would increase Roumania's forces to 100,000 POLAND. The entire Polish contingent of the Russian army has been sent out of the Polish provinces for service in the field. Russian garrisons will remain in Warsaw, and other large towns in Russia. Intelligence from Warsaw indicates an impending Polish rising. The government have posted placards in Warsaw prohibiting any gathering in the streets. The " Standard's " dispatch from Berlin says the Russian police profess to have discovered a plot in Poland. Several Polish curates have been thrown into prison at Warsaw. All dealers in arms arejsubjected to stringent regulations. GERMANY. A dispatch to the " Standard" from Ber lin says :j"Prince Bismarck's statements are quoted by all Germany with the greatest satisfaction. In his remarks on Saturday, Bismarckjdcclared that if Russia threatened to be victorious in the impending war, Eng land would interfere without making a for mal declaration of war, and he believed England would occupy Egypt should the Turkish territory be violated by Russian forces." * AUSTRIA TO MAINTAIN AN ARMED NEUTRALITY. London, Nov. 22nd.—A Berlin dispatch says that Austria .seems to have determined not to oppose the Russian invasion of Bulgaria, or the English occupation of Con stantinople. ROME. OPENING OF THE ITALIAN PARLIA MENT. Rome, Nov. 20th.— The Italian Parlia ment opened to-day. The King, in his speech from the throne, referring to the threatening events transpiring at the present time, expressed confidence in the snecess of the counsels of moderation which his gov ernment had given effectual support.

AMERICAN ITEMS.

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION.

Latest San Francisco news state? that the result of the Presidential election is :— Hayes, 185 ; Tilden, 184. The accuracy of the return is disputed by rthe Democratic party, and it is not unlikely that the matter will come before Congress for settlement. The majority of that bodj' beingliepubiicans, it is thought that Hayes' majority is likely to be sustained.

The new extradition treaty having been agreed upon, innnedtatc steps were taken to arrest all forgers. The Spanish authorities at Havana captured-a boat near Baracou, with four insurgents on board, carrying correspondence from the Cuban refugees in New York to insurgents here, stating that an expedition with arms, ammunition, and money was on its way to this island, under the command of Quesada. The steamer Montcguma was seized by passengers, the captain and three passengers being killed. 4;"),000 men -were thrown out of employ ment at Bethlehem, Pa., by the stoppage of coal mines. A revolution, headed by Colonel Alsina, Minister of War, broke out in Buenos Ayres and Entre Kiss. Bue nos Ayres is in a state of siege.

SAN FRANCISCO MAIL SERVICE —SIR JULIUS VOGEL INTER VIEWED.

The late Premier of New Zealand, Sir Julius ogcl, who passed through 'Frisco en Friday, en route t-> London, where he will act as Agent General for that colony, expressed a decided opinion, that should the contractors abandon the present contract, the colonies will not make any attempt to continue the Postal Service via San Francisco.

"They arc not prepared to make further sac criflces in that direction," ho said. "The colo nies have done everything. America has done nothing. When I was here six years ego, agrc-at deal of interest was taken in tills project, and extravagant promises of subsidies from Congress were made. What lias happened? A mail service was provided better than anything ihey possessed here, except the new China line; it was maintained by New Zealand, but no sub sidy could be obtained from Congress, and the contractors abandoned it. I don't think the colonies have been treated at all well by this country ; and if the Australian trade is worth retaining, this State should take.steps io sustain the existing mail service."

These remarks were undoubtedly true. Six years ago. when "Webb's line was established, Congress was to be moved to grant a subsidy, but. the application failed, owing to rival railway projectors, who subordinated the commercial interests of the State to their own sellish pur poses.

" I cannot help thinking-" remarked Sir Julius Vogel, " that if the colonial governments bad been .free to negotiate for a subsidy, Congress would have granted it long ago ; but the con tractors insisted upon receiving it, and they were successfully opposed. Should this contract break flown, however, as I remarked before. I don't, think the colonies will lake any further action in the matter,

TERRIBLE DISASTER IN INDIA.

SEVERAL ISLANDS SUBMERGED IN # A STORM.

127,000 PERSONS LOST. Calcutta. Three large islands, Battinh, Simdecp, and Dakin Shahabo/hare, M nmiewus smaller islands, included in tJie JiacKei gunge, Norhkcllv and Chtftagong <lis™> were entirely submerged by the storm--wave of October 31st, as was also the mam lana for five or six miles. These islands are au in or*iiear the estuary of the river M^}^ The largest, Dakin Shahabozhare, was aw square miles in extent. It had a popuu* tion of about 240,000. Hattiali ami bun deep together had about 100,000. Up• to eleven o'clock on the night of the *m there were no signs of danger, but beioie midnight a wave had swept over the coun try to the depth in many places of twenty feet, surprising the people in their beat-. Dense groves of eocoanut and palm trees around the villages enabled many to save themselves by climbing the branches. Some took refuge on the tops of their houses, but the water burst the houses asunder, and swept them out to sea. some were carried across the channel 10 imlos to Chittagoug; District, but the vast majority were never heard of again. There s scarcely a household ill the islands and on the adjacent coast but lost many Members. There as much distress among the survivors, which Government is relieving. It a believed tlin? not one-tliird of the popula tion survived. The stench from the putre fying bodies is insufferable, and ft geHWM, puthrwfc;of ghotera il , espwte^y .

THE EVENING STAR, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 1876.



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 flr3t-class animals by B. EDWARDS (Late of Cobb & Co.), LIVERY STABLEKEEPER, Hamilton Hotel, Hamilton, Waikaeo. T COSGRAVE&CO. Beg to announce they will bring ** forward on MONDAY NEXT, 27th NOVEMBER, A Fresh Lot of BA R G A I NS!!! Consisting1 of THEIR LATE SHIPMENT BY THE ORARI, Purchased at Home at Job Prices, together with the whole of their SUxMMER DRAPERY & CLOTHJNG, REDUCED IN PRICE TO SUIT THE TIMES ! Several Bales of CALICO, damaged by sea water, will be Sold under Invoice Price. ■JjiURNTIURE ! FURNITURE ! JO Ladies and Gentlemen about to Furnish are respect fully requested to inspect the Large Stock of DRA WING - ROOM, DINING - ROOM BEDROOM, AND GENERAL HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, In our New and Spacions Slwwrooms. ' T. & m~COOKE 3 67, QUEEN-STREET Adjoining Bank of New Zealand. Readers who need a fashionable coat, Or fancy vest and trousers, please to note. HL. POSSENISKIE, c In thanking his patrons and the general public for past favours, begs to intimate that he has BS. REMOVED REMOVED "S» TO MORE CENTRAL PREMISES (First Shop in Shobtland-stkeet), and has ÜBT OPENED A NEW AND CHOICE SELECTION OF TWEEDS. FANCY COATINGS AND VESTINQS, $*, $»•! &«*



Ttt" .0 T I C E. DRAPERY GOODS, NEW AND CHEAP!!! The undersigned have Purchased at Auction a LARGE LOT of NEW DRAPERY GOODS, just landed ex City of Auckland, the whole of which having been bought at much under the usual Warehouse Kates, "they can afford to olter to their Customers at Very Low Prices. The Parcel comprises :— Grey Calico, various qualities, from /3^ri yard Strong White Calico at /4 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, /6 each, 5/9 doz. White and Unbleached Damask and Damask Table Cloths, from 2/6 9/4,10/1 & 11/4 Alhambra Quilts, good qualities, 3/11 Rough Brown Holland, from /6 yard Half-dressed ditto, superior quality, very cheap at/lOiand 1/ Black Lustre, and superior quality Black Bnl liantine Lustres New Prints, good patterns, at /dj, /oj, and /o, very cheap Harvard Shirting, good quality, l"\ yard Fine Irish Linen, Jot of Remnants, a bargain, from 1/4 yard Gents' Br. Cotton Half-hose do. do., merino feet Grey and Fancy Striped Merino HallMiose, and other goods too numerous to mention. All Purchasers of Drapery and Clothing should inspect our Stock, and prove that although not selling off, we are giving full value for MONBY. (T3T One Shilling in the £ returned on all pur chases of 20s. and upwards. RUSH BROOK & BRIDGMAN, Uppkr Queen-street, > Auckland.



STjie Medical Pkofession have declared tTEANB'S SUPKRLATIVE AROMATIC TONIO VVINK o be a necessity to all in search of health, and especially to those suffering; either from fcnei pi cut or Chronic Indigestion, Dyspepsia, and the dis orders arising therefrom. This Tonic is. also particularly recommended to all who are in a measure compelled from the nature ol' their occupation to lake stimulants, and at the same time are desirous of studying health by taking that which will act most beneficially on the system. Mr. Win. Johnson, Government Analy tical Chemist, report: — "! have examined Steane's Superlative Aromatic Tonic Wane, and find it to bo remarkably pleasant in flavour, con taining about 16 per cent, of a very pure alcohol, and holding in solution a clear wholesome, "Vegetable Bitter, combined with a fruity spicy aroma. I consider this Bitter a very superior article."—Sold by all Storekeepers and Hotel kecpers. Mark Twain ox Bad Musicians. — The 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 tho words "None Genuine without the Signature of the Proprietor, Frank Westox, Sydney, N.5.W.," are engraven thereon. Any other so-called preparations ot mine, are unauthorized by me, and calculated to mislead the public—Signed, Frank Weston. Sole Agents: Kempthorne, Prosser and Co.— Price, rfalf-a-crown.



A Hint to Ladies.—Nervous excitement pro duces nervous weakness. Female complaints, which are almost always accompanied by ex cessive nervousness, bring on debility. Bilious derangement and inactivity of the bowels also usually exist in connection with nervous debi lity. Nervousness, indigestion, and constipation arc promptly relieved by tho pleasant expedient of swallowing three or tour times a day a wine glassful of Uuoli'jio Wolfe's Schiedam Abo matio Schnapps.