SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

tttT-1 it w a twr J Thiß Afternoon, 0.17 HIGH VVAIEK— j To . morrow Morning, 10.7 SUN SET.—This Evening, 7.G. SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning, 5.22 MOON'S AGE.—Last Quarter, sth, 1.39 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Rqwona, s.s., Sellars, from Tauranga Eliabcth, schooner, from Russell

DEPARTURES.

Jane Douglas, s.s., for Gisbornc and Napier

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

Fit Levuka—Augusta, brigantine, early For London—Gtenlora, barque, early; Loch Urr. barque, early

The p.s. Oregon will leave Onehunga for Waiuku to-morrow morning at S o'clock.

The schooner Pioneer is on the eve of leaving for Newcastle in ballast. She has capital acco modation for a few passengers, who should make application to Messrs Owen and Graham. The new s.s. Kina will be laid on in the Coro raandel trade to-morrow. She is advertised to leave the Q.ueen-street wharf at 2 p.m., and to start en the return from Coromandel at 10 a.m. on Monday. Thanks to the aesistance r«ndei-cdby the crew of H.I.M. ship Hertha, the efforts made to raiso the sunken yacht Bismarck were yesterday afternoon rewarded with success, and the yacht was towed lip to town, and placed alongside the wharf. Her masts and sails are ail to pieces, but her hull is uninjured. The splendid clipper ship Northam, 1537 tons register, is advertised to leave Sydney for Lon don on Saturday, 31st March. The Northam is a converted P. and O. steamer, and has very superior and commodious passenger accomoda tion. Messrs Cruickshank and Co. are the Auck land agents. The barque Mirzaporc has nearly completed the discharge of her cargo of stone. After ballasting she will leave for Puget Sound, where she is to load timber for Melbourne. The schooner Penola arrived at Newcastle hence on the 13th January. The schooner Ephemy is loading at Dunedin for this port. The schooner Elizabeth brings 75 tons of man ganese from Russell. It will be shipped for London in tho Loch Urr. A printer's error occurred in our paragraph relating to the s.s. Hero yesterday. Instead of leaving Sydney on the 17th, it should have read, "will leave for Sydney on the 17th." She is expected here from Sydney on the 11th inst., so that she will leave Sydney on or about the Bth inst. Passengers by the Hero this trip will be in time to catch the splendid steamer Nemesis, which is advertised to leave Sydney for London on Thursday the 21th February. Messrs Cruick shank and Co. can afford any further informa tion required by intending passengers. The steamer Bluenose advertised on our first page as running on the Waikato, is at present laid up on account of the lowness of the river. The A.S.P. Co.'s s.s. Jane Douglas left for Gis bornc and Napier at four o'clocic this afternoon with a general cargo and the following passen gers :—Messrs H. M. Shepherd, W. Page, and C. Bennett. cutter Lancashire has cleared out to-day fjr Tauranga witn _0 sacks (100) Hour, 10 bags Hour (50), 1000 bricks, 10 tons coal. The schooner Gem has cleared in ballast for Russell. The brig Transport has entered out for New castle, and the barque Mizapore for Puget Sound. The schooner Atalanta has arrived from Tairua, with 23,000 feet of timber. The cutter Magic brings 15 tons coal from Russell. The cutter Opotiki, from Opotiki, brings 7 hides, 1 box tobacco, and 5 cases luggage.

COMMERCIAL.

Mr G. Sibbins' general weekly sale was well attended to-day. Maize, Is (id to 5s 3a ; oats, 2s !)d to 3s 3d. bacon (cloth). lOd; roll (to.. 7d ; cheese, Gd to 7d: bran, 6s-: potatoes, is: white do., 2s; tea, 2s Id to 2s Sd per lb.; sugar, 5d to 5Jd: pears, 2id. Messrs Cochrane and Son's furniture and general goods sale proceeded favourably. A quantity of jewellery was ottered, and realised satisfactorily, Messrs M. Jones and Co's sale of produce, fowls, and groceries was liberally attended to-day, mostly by settlers, and the prices ob tained were satisfactory. There was a good supply of fowls. The furniture sale was of the usual character. Mr R. Arthur held his usual weekly sale of produce, etc., at his mart to-day. There was a largo attendance of buyers. Prices obtained were: potatoes, 2s Gd to 3s Gd per cwt.; Auck land hams and bacon, id to Old lb.; Auckland cheese. 3d to 7 Ad; Taranaki butter, 8d to S.d; Auckland apples, Id to l,d; Auckland plums, 6d per lb. Messrs B. Tonks and Co. held a sale of Nelson plums at the Brunswick Mart to-day. There was a moderate attendance, and 20 cases were quittod.at a good price. Mr R. C. Greenwood reports bis usual Friday's sale of poultry, held in the Market house this day, noon, as follows; Fowls and -poultry of every description scarce ; fowls (good) Is 9d to 2s od each, do. (poor) Is 3d to Is Od; chicks, 9d to Is 3d ; geese, 2s 9d to 3s ; turkeys, none entered; ducks, is 3d to 2s Id; pigeons, 9d to Ktd ; sucking nix's, Lis 6d; potatoes, 3s per cwt.; cheese, od to 7d lb; other goods at fair prices.

AUCKLAND CATTLE MARKET.

Mr Alfred Buckland's Weekly Report. —At Remuera on Thursday, fat cattle were in full supply; 159 head sold. At commencement of the auction, prices were higher than last week, but fell to previous values as the sale proceeded. Prices consequently varied more than usual, but the average obtained was about 26s the lOOlbs. Store sheep -were more numerous than usual; they were of a very mixed class, many of them being very inferior, but were fairly competed for at prices equal to the Fair. Fat sheep were also in full numbers, but gene rally of a good class, and the advance obtained last, week was sustained ; about 700 sold. Pigs were in increasing demand. Prices given were : Dairy cows,.£6 10s to £5 15s: dry cows. £3 15s to £5 5s ; yearlings, £2 15s to £3: two-year-old steers, well-bred, £5 10s: three-year-old steers, from the Coast, £117s Gd to £5 15s : fat calves, 2fis to ISs ; store lambs, 2s to 5s 6d : fat lambs, S3 to 13s; aged ewes. 3s to Is 6d ; young ewes, 12s to 16s ; mixed ages, 5s to 9s each ; fat sheep, 2id to 3d the lb.

Messrs. Hunter and Nolan's Weekly Report.—Horses : There has been increased activity in the market. The supply has con tinued large, and sales have been more readily effected, On Friday a large number were entered. Those of a good stamp attracted attention : bidding was spirited, and prices had an upward tendency. We quote : Hacks, from £7 to £18; light draught mares, £25; draught colts, from £30. Cattle : Dairy cows sold from £7 to £10 10s; weaned calves, £1 10s to £1 15s; yearlings, from £2 5s to £3 ss; three-year-old steers, £6 each. Sheep: There was a srood supply and brisk demand for fat sheep. Store wethers were at improved values, but ewes did not advance in price. Fat wethers sold at from 163 to 21s ; store wethers, 10s 3d to lis ; store ewes, 8s to os. Lambs, if good, were well com peted for, but indifferent were neglected: best sold at 15s ; inferior. 5s 6d to Bs.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under :— For Thames, this day at 4.30 p.m., and 5.30 p.m., and to-morrow at 1.30 p.m. For Whitianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowena, this day, at 1 p.m. For Coromandel, per Argyle, on Monday next. at 11.30 a.m. For Waiwera. Mahurangi. Matakana, Manga. wai, Waipn, Wangarcl, and Mangapai, per Annie Milbank, to-mororow, at 10 a.m. For Taranaki. Southern Provinces, and Australian Colonies, per Taupo, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 0.15 a.m. I_ate letters will be received till 10.20 a.m. For Levuka, per Augusta, on Monday next, at 11 a.m. Mails for the Australian Colonies. Continent of Europe, and the United Kingdom, via Southampton and Brindisi, will close about ' Wednesday, 7th inst. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

DEATH.

OSBORNE.—On the 2nd February, at Newmar ket, Margaret, the beloved wife of Thomas Osborne, aged 70 years. The funeral will leave on Sunday, at throe o'clock p.m. Friends are invited to attend.

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

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1877

_ or the envse that lacks assistance. For th_ wrong that needs resistance. For tlie future ill Die distance, And the i_o_d that we can do.

WAli presents itself in an infinite variety of vrays to differently constituted minds, and while'immense prominence has been given to its glories, and not a little to its miseries. some, attention is merited to an aspect no less important, the tax it imposes on the industrialI'resources of a nation. The severity of ibis strain is but partially felt in Britain, where the drain comes through indirect channels, but the severe military systems of the continent impose a terrible burden. The merchant,.professional man, and mechanic are without discrimination forcibly taken from their peaceful occupa tions for protracted unprofitable military duty. While in England the army is recruited mainly from the lower and most restless classes of society, and ne'er do wells, affording a useful safety valve for the wildest element-, of the nation, the armies of the great Empires of continental Europe embrace the flower of the State, the learning, chivalry, and commercial ability. A victory mingles with the trium phant p:ean_, mourning and desolation in tim nobleman's castle, the merchant's mansion, and the mechanic's cottage. To the money cost of war is added an enormous loss of industrial power. [„ England, tho injury, to trade is chieily confined to the interference with free exchange of products, and the consequent rise of prices in certain articles. This is iv some measure compen sated for by the great commercial activity created by a large war expenditure. The perpetual, tax, howevpr, en 14led on the nation by the necessities <>i war, even in times of perfect peace, has been indus triously and eloquently pressed upon the attention of the people through the papers of the Peace Society of Loiiuom These tacts, startling by their magnitude, may well lead the statesman and the 'philan thropist, to concentrate their wisdom Upon. thQ tt^sk of overthrowing tUfttj mont

barbaric .survival of primitive and untutored j ages into the days of liberty, enlightenment, ' and humanity. The Society has done much : to educate the public mind in the evils of war, and has endeavoured to dissipate that strange moral turpitude which elevates to the position of national greatness and glory, instincts and practices that- would brand the individual as a human monster and cut-throat. In the papers published by this Society it is shewn that " twenty years before the Crimean war the military and naval expenditure of Britain was £12,000,000. In 1854, the year before that war, it had risen to £16,000,000. Since the termina tion of that war it has averaged more than £26,000,000 per annum. Thus there has been a permanent increase of £10,000,000 per annum (not including the interest on debts ever since the Crimean war.) These sums are so enormous that they can not even be imagined, except by some pro cess of comparison. To aid Ibis comparison let us mark the following facts : According to the officially published annual statistics the total amount of coal produced in the United Kingdom lias averaged, for tho last seven years,"an annual value of £22,000,000 sterling, or £4,000,000 less than the average cost of the army and navy. Hence all our coal mines united will not suffice to main tain our army and navy. And all the coal" iron, copper, lead, tin, zinc, silver and other metals produced in the United Kingdom have averaged in value (for seven years past) £,'!/'.000,000 per annum, or about £15,000,000 Joss than two year's average expenditure on wars. The average value of wheat, barley, oats, maize, and Hour imported into the United Kingdom for seven years past is £30,000,000 per annum, or only £4,000,000 more than the annual expenditure for army and navy alone, irrespective of national debt. No wonder that many arc almost starved ! The average value of the cotton imported into the United Kingdom for the seven years past is £28,000,000, exactly the cost of the army and navy alone in 186' S. No wonder Hie manufacturing population have hail hard work to get a livelihood ! All the paupers in the United Kingdom cost in the year 1870-1871 .£!),_ 90,757, or one-third of the expense of the army and

The Customs reveuuc of the colony con tinues to exhibit a decline. The returns for the last quarter of 1876' have just reached us, and shew a decrease of £9480, as com pared with the corresponding quarter of 1575. The decline on the whole year, as compared with the previous twelve months, was £_S, 176. Auckland, unfortunately, contributed the largest quota to the quarter's deficit, £7,71)7 ; and Dunedin stood next with £6,953. At Lyttelton, the port of Canterbury, there was an increase of £4,188, and that port for the first time, ranks above Auckland as a contributor to (he revenue, with £47,619 against £45,438 collected here. This is but the predicted outcome of the unequal distribution of immigration and public works carried out from loans raised upon the guarantee of a custom's revenue to which Auckland then contributed nearly a fourth. In 1870, when New Zealand entered upon the system of forced immigration and public works, this port paid through the Customs £167,607, and Lyttelton only £83,934, just one-half. Six years of government fostering, and the port of Canterbury lias turned the tables. Remark upon figures like these is un necessary.

navy !

A party of officers from 11. 141 ship llertha have been engaged for sonic days past taking views of prominent localities in .Auckland, and especially from those points which command tiic city.

By some oversight the evidence for the defendant was not telegraphed in the case of Robertson v. Ross and another recently tried „t Dunedin, and in which a verdict was given for the defendant. One witness deposed that Robertson was perfectly sober when he signed the deed. Samuel Marshall < _arke,a scbo()l-iiiaster,deposcd that Robert son had made a deed giving the Anderson's Lay property to Mrs Loss, that the will was frequently read over to him, be fully under stood it, but that he complained of the domineering attempts of .Mrs Robertson tojget ibe property for herself. Other witnesses deposed that the deed was carefully ex plained to Robertson before lie signed it, and he said, " It's richt ; it's as I wished it."

In the report of the City Council's proceedings in the " Herald" of to-day's issue, it is stated that a letter from Dr Stockwcll (City Health OlHcer) was for warded in consequence of what had been , stated in the " Herald " of that day (Ist of [ February). Dr Stockwcll's letter being dated the 22nd January, and having been forwarded to the Chairman of the Central Board of Health at Wellington on the day following, we do not understand bow it could be owing to what appeared in the "Herald" of the Ist February that the matter was brought under the notice of the local Board of Health. The race between Mr Alison's boat and that owned by Mr Hunt, comes oil' to-morrow at one o'clock, and not on Saturday week. Mails close at Hokitika for Sydney, per Albion, at 8 p.m. on Saturday, 3rd inst. A girl named Kate East, aged 13, while bathing in the Kaiapoi river, was swept away by the current and drowned. A correspondent of the "Thames Adver tiser " states that the To Arohu natives are busy erecting a, palisade pa at Omaha, and that a picket is kept on toe look out at two outposts on the Waihou river. A native named Munga, struts about in all the glory of: the uniform of the Shortland Native "Volunteer Corps, and talks bounceably about war and bloodshed. The same cor respondent slates that the land upon which Lilly Rowe and others have fixed their longing eyes is sonic of the choicest in the district. Meantime tho. hostile party of Ohinemuri, are constructing a, pa at the junction of the Ohinemuri and Waihou rivers, and are gathering peaches under the very guns of the To Aroha pa, for sale in Shortland. Whether these two parties of doughty warriors will come to the tug of war remains to be seen, but it is probable that the present demonstration will end in smoke. Nay, it is conceivable that a secret understanding exists between the hostile camps, with the view of extorting another windfall from the pakcha. It appears from a paragraph in the "New Zealand Times," that there were not want ing men. willing to hang Woodgate. "At I noon on the day of the .execution, a man presented himself at the " Times" ollice, and inquired about the hanging business. Ho was a strange-looking man, with one wall-eye, and a general game-chicken appearance. He wanted to know if Wood i gate had been " strung-up," because if not, 'he was prepared to perform the operation at a reduced rate. He appeared quite dis appointed when informed "Woodgate had settled his last account." A correspondent of the same journal says four of the jury engaged on the trial of Woodgate could neither rv.nl or write, tind that the foreman avowed before the trial that if he got on the jury he would have Woodgate hanged. The '•' Thames Advertiser" states on the authority of a man named A. Campbell, who was' a inn to of "Led Bill," that the real name oi the latter was William Mather, a native oi Manchester. lie was paying bis addresses to a young woman named Lizzie, who lived in a cottage at the back of Rob leston-atreet, near the present site of St. Georges school-house. Mather ba-d seen his sweet-heart,afterwards went to Tookey's Fiat, and. his remains were afterward found in i. fajuut bomu teu days ititer, j

The Waikato "Times" comdcmns the Government for closing the Hospital at Ngaruawahia.

Amongst the list of students gazetted as having matriculated during the year are the names of A. A. T. Haultain, and H. M. D. Haslctt of Auckland College. A list of " officiating ministers" within the meaning of the Marriage Act, 1554 13 gazetted. There are about 400 in all. Inquiries are made in the New Zealand " Gazette" respecting Richard Craig formerly Colour-sergeant of the 57th Regiment, and afterwards of the Forest Rangers. The following graceful compliment has been paid to tha Auckland Fire Brigade, in a letter sent from the Secretary of the Dunedin Brigade to Superintendent Hughes :—" Dunedin, January 26, 1877.— Superintendent Hughes, Fire Brigade, Auckland.—Sir, —l have been instructed by the Fire Brigade Demonstration Committee to forward, through yon, a gold medal to Mr T. J. Anscll, in commemoration of Lis visit to Dunedin in charge of the Auckland team, and the Committee trust that they were satisfied with their reception while here. I have also to inform you that the Committee having taken into consideration the great difference in value of the first and second prizes in hose competition, concluded it would be acceptable by your Brigade to have a certificate that could bo exhibited in the Brigade-room,showing that they did win the second prize. I have now, therefore, very great pleasure m informing you til-t the certificate, framed, is on board the Taupo, and trust it will arrive safe, and will meet with the approval of your Brigade. With kind wishes to Mr Anscll and his team, together with yourself, —I am &c, IIOBT. Robinson, Hon. Sec. F.8.D.C." The testimonial is handsomely illuminated and engrossed by T. George. It reads as follows :—" Fire Brigades Demonstration, held at Dunedin, Otago, N.Z., December 26, 1576. —By permission and authority of the Demonstration Committee, we, the undersigned, do hereby certify that the Auckland team did win the second prize in hose competition. We have also much pleasure in bearing testimoney to the correct and firemanlike manner in which the members of the team, individually and collectively, discharged their duties.—Clias. S. Reeves, Mayor of Dunedin ; W. C. Kirk caldy, Chairman of Demonstration Com mittee ; .Job Wain, jun., lief erce. Judges: John S. Stony, W. J. Dyer, Fred. Bastings, James Marshall. Robert Robertson, Secre tary."

The contractor for the removal of city refuse complains that persons place boxes of rubbish in the streets long after the carts have passed, and then complain that the boxes are not emptied. It should be borne in mind that all boxes must be placed out not later than 8 a.m., and that the con tractor is not bound to go back over his route after having once cleared the streets. Sir George Arney, writing from Hastings, states that he is enjoying very good health. Two portraits ot him, which arrived from England by the mail, fully endorse the statement, and indeed give him the appear ance of a man of 40 years of age. The like ness is v striking one. There is no mis taking the calm dignified countenance, and at a glance wesee the former much respected Chief Justice.

Mr. J. Browne, Snyder, the new editor of the "Poverty Bay Standard," was warmly welcomed on arrival at Gisborne.

At Nelson, a watch and chain, purchased out of shilling subscriptions, has been pre sented to a boy named David Whiting, aged 14, for courageously jumping into the Maita river, in an attempt to save Mr. Eastwood. The presentation was made by Judge Ward.

Colonel Haul tain, the newly-appointed Sheriff of Auckland, entered upon his duties yesterday.

The Rorough Council of Cbristchurch having refused to grant licenses to more than 30 cabs, the cab-owners to whom licenses have been refused threaten to take legal proceedings against that body.

Col. Reader is to command at the Colonial Prize luring at Ilokitika.

During the months of November and December 92,462 post cards were sold in the colony.

The members of the Star of Newton Lodge held their quarterly meeting last evening in the Newton Congregational School-room. The quarterly report and balance-sheet were favourable, showing a balance; in hand. The following were then installed as officers for tho ensuing session : -W. C. T., Brother Will leer ;"W. V. T., Brother Sticklev ; W. Secretary, Brother W. J. Gcddis ; W. Treasurer, Brother Hut chinson ; W.F.S., Brother Nicholson ; W.A.S.. Sister Greetham ; W.M., Brother W. J. Wright; W.D.M., Brother Bain; W. Chaplain, Brother Carton ; W.0.G., Brother M.oOuit; W.1.G.. Brother Sommer ville; W.R.U.S., SisterMcCuit; W.L.H.S., Sister Wright; P.W.C.T., Brother Mc- Gregor.

_Ir T. B. Hill, who lias been away from Auck land for a considerable time, intimates to the medical profession, his old supporters, and the public generally, that he has returned to his shop in Victoria-street, where he will be found at all hours in the day, ready to minister to their immediate necessities.

Mr Edward Lewis, Evangelist, delivered a lecture last evening in the Cook-street Christian Meeting House, on "Christian Union." Mr E. Carr occupied tho chair, and introduced the lecturer, who divided his discourse into five parts, instead of the orthodox throe parrs, under I lie subjoined heads:—"What is Christian Union? Do the Scriptures enjoin Union upon us? and, Have they provided for Union T De nominations, lie said, arc; incomparable with union. He enlarged chiefly on the third division of his subject, insisting that the Scriptures had provided for Union—lst, by giving us all truth; 2nd, by the simplicity of the truth they teach. 3rd, by enjoining us to hold fast that which the Apostle taught; Ith, by telling us to avoid that which was not tau.ht; and sth, by declaring that the Word of God is perfect in its action. The lecturer then pro ceeded to prove that his statements were true. At the close, of tho lecture, several questions were put and duly answered. The whole con cluded with the benediction.

The Wilton Troupe consisting of Mr and Mrs Frederick Wilton, will ghorjly make their first appearance in Auckland. If report speaks truly, a great treat is in store for citizens. Mrs Wilton is a soprano of a very high order, also a burlesque actress of uncommon merit. Mr Wilton is a comiquc, negro delineator, and comedian with high class credentials. The Wilton Troupe are accompanied by Mr Tom Burton, who is well known in connection with the Auckland stage as an actor of more than average ability.

The Temperance Variety Troupe has dissolved, not for want of success, as their meetings have been largely patronised of late, but owing to those changes which are associated with our mortal state. The late secretary got married, and could not come ; Mr Doran had other busi ness on hand which required his,presence ; and three others, including Mr Cooper, the Al singer of the troupe, arc about to leave tho province. Miss Ash Was compelled to decline onoccounf of delicate health, and loss of voice; the Mettam liros. dissolved partnership, and so the end came, and the Variety Troupe dissolved like mountain snow in the early sunshine, leaving Mr Sceats, the manager, like Campbell's "Last Man," to utter loneliness chanting its requiem to the barren walls of the Institute.

Date of Curtin's Execution.

W_ understand that Tuesday, next at about seven o'clock, has been fixed as the time for executing the sentence of the law on Martin Curtin. The fact was communicated to him last evening, and he received the announcement with far more seriousness than he has exhibited at any stage of the affair from the beginning. It appears that tip to this lie has been buoyed tip with hope of a reprieve, but he must be con vinced by this time that all hope oil pardon iv thi;, world is, ktiie.

CABLEGRAMS.

Montenegro Advised to Make Peace.

[Press Agency.] SECOND PROSECUTION AGAINST SLADE. LONDON, January 31. The British, German, and Italian Consuls advise Nicholas of Montenegro to make peace if the Porte cedes territory. A summons was granted against Slade for conspiracy.

AUSTRALIAN.

MOTION OF WANT OF CONFIDENCE NEGATIVED. SYDNEY.—THIS DAY. After an excited personal debate a motion of want of confidence against the Govern ment was negatived by three votes. The Minister of Lands, against whom mis conduct was proved, resigned portfolio yesterday. The Delegates have beenj entertained at a picnic to the Blue Mountains. Arrived—the Wakatipu.

HORTICULTURAL EXHIBITION.

The following are the entries for the best kept working man's garden, at tho forth coming Horticultural Show, to be held on Wednesday next, the 7th instant :—Mr. John Golding, Willow-street, Freeman's Bay ; Mr. Melville, Sale-street ; Mr. Garringe, Ellerslie ; Mr. Arch, storeman, Ponsonby ; Mr. McNab, corner of Napier and Sheridan-streets ; Mr. J. Trayes, cast side of Sheridan-street; Mr. Currie, Lin coln-street, Ponsonby; Mr. Cleal, Brown street, Springbank ; Mr. Wm. Gault, Howe street ; Mr. J. N. Clark, Kyber Pass Road ; and Mr. Hendry, Kyber Pass Road. The judges are—Mr. Purdie, gardener to Mr. Baird, Mechanics' Bay Nursery ; Mr. Gilles pie, gardener, Government House; Mr. Green, florist, Seafield View Nursery. Mr. W. Swanson, M.H.R., who has kindly pro vided the prizes, will accompany the judges on Monday next, on their tour of inspection. The conditions arc as follows :—A prize of £2 2s. for the best kept vegetable garden, in which the vegetables are grown for the consumption of the family living upon the premises where grown ; a second prize of £] lis. 6d. for the second best ; a third prize of £1 Is. for the third best. Protests against any of the competitors for non-fulfilment of conditions, must lie given to the secretary, Mr. D. Goldie, on or before Tuesday next.

EXPLANATION.

(To the Editor of the S_ATt.)

Silt, —In your issue of last night you refer to one of two notices of motion given by me at the last meeting of Eden Council. Tin; " Herald," from which your information is borrowed, gives the notices in wrong order : the last should be first, and the first last. Had you read them together and in the right order, you would have seen the absurdity of the inference you seem half inclined to draw. A few words will ex plain the matter. The two ridings of Onehunga and l'arnell, by electing Coun cillors for the Council, have already taken their places in the County system, and it has been publicly announced that steps are being taken to dis-conncct either the whole or portions of these ridings from the County, by forming them into boroughs. It would be the height of folly and impudence for me to attempt to prevent any district, wish ing to become a borough, from becoming one. That is neither my object, nor is it a fair inference from the two-fold notice I gaA'e to the Council. Parnell and Onehunga, being at present part of the County, through I heir action in electing Councillors, seem desirous of with drawing front it. The Councillors of these places, strange to say, arc exerting themselves to the utmost to impose on the rest of the County the heavy yoke (Counties Act) which they are repudiating them selves, and out of which they are slipping their own necks. Were it not for them the

Act would unquestionably be hung-up. Onehunga, by withdrawing in the manner proposed, may throw the burden of main taining the 1. ion half of Mangare bridge on Eden County ; and the Parnell Road Hoard, by public advertisement, appro priated and annexed a nice portion of the County beyond the Road Board limits. As the Council is the proper guardian of the interests of the county, I gave notice that the Attorney-General should be consulted, in order that the Council might .learn how to act legally in the unusual circumstances ; and -if it should be found that Onehunga and Parnell, by becoming boroughs in the ways proposed, should be imposing unfair and unjust burdens on the rest of the county—that whatever steps were open to the Council, either by petitioning the Governor or memorialising the Government, should be taken in order to prevent injustice.

The great local question now is, whether the Council should carry out or suspend the Permissive clauses of the Act. If the Act be suspended, as the people wish, the revenues of the County will go almost entirely to the Load Boards, to be spent on the roads, and we ought not to lose so splendid an opportunity of getting our roads put right. If it he not suspended, but carried out, the Road Boards will get the £1 for £1 ; but all the rest of the County revenues will be wasted in the payment of chairman, and officials of every possible kind. Sus pension will give us good roads : adoption, good billets for friends, and supporters of Councillors. While all this is obvious as daylight, I am greatly surprised that not one of all the Road Boards in the county has uttered a word of protest against .squandering on chairmen and officials, the money which might be so usefully devoted to the roads ; and that, with the exception of Morningsidc, not one meeting of the people has been held in reference to this matter. Let the Road Boards meet, and if they neglect their duty, let the people of the different ridings meet, and forward to the Council from every side, resolutions to the effect that it is their will that the Counties Act be not carried out at present, that the County chairman should not be made a salaried servant of the Council, and that the revenues, instead of being wasted on unnecessary billets, should be distributed among the Road Boards.—l am, &_., James Wallis.—[We object to the very ground on which our correspondent's motions rest. We cannot admit the right of the County oi- Government to interfere with the lawful privileges of the suburban house holders, on any pretence whatever. The County has the remedy in its own hands. As our correspondent very clearly points out, the advantages to highway districts, if the Counties Act is not brought into full operation are so great that there will be no temptation to form municipalities ; and Parnell _ and Onehunga, which are now taking time by the forelock, may be disposed to "try back" a little for the purpose of securing the additional pound for pound subsidy. The action of those districts is not spontaneous, it has been forced upon them through fear of the County Council; and their determination is probably the most effective means ol bringing about what our correspondent advocates," by cutting off nearly a third of the County revenues, ■*■" j X.d, E,fcj,l ,: ' j

YACHT SECRET IN NELSON AND WELLINGTON.

(FROM A CORRESPONDENT)

I closed mv last as we dropped anchor inside the Boulder Bank, Nelson. In the present you will be able to follow our movements up to date. After the usual scrubbing and polishing we went on shore, when we found good reason for congratulating ourselves on our quick run from LyUclton: a few hours longer and the Secret would have been debarred from taking part m the race. It wanted four clays of the Regatta, and yet, strange to say, all vessels were to be entered before eight o'clock on the evening of our arrival, and no post entries were allowed. No doubt tho committee had their own object in view, but by pursuing such a course it was (to put it in a vory mild form) allowing strangers "very little latitude." On tho 16th (day before Regatta), accompanied by Captain Lowe, the pilot, and several gentlemen (!) on the sailing committee, we went out for a spin, intending with the aid of our visitors to have a run round the course. On getting outside, however, wc were very much disappointed to find they apparently knew no more about it than wo did ourselves. The only information (?) gained was from the pilot, who told us that wo might sail over the course with impunity, as

THERE WAS ANY AMOUNT OF WATER. The first race on the programme was for open sailing hoats, hut the committee decided to postpone it, as there was too little wind (it was a doad calm). Imagine our surprise, therefore, when an hour later a boat came alongside, and we were told to prepare for tho start. When the gun fired there was no more wind than would till your hat. However, the ebb tide took us out clear of the entrance, and we then got a slight air, which enabled us to overhaul our opponents, tho Gannett and Claymore. When the first flagboat was rounded wo had a lead of ton minutes, which distance was increased to 134 minutes, when we completed the first round. It was at this time, and whilst steering a direct course as laid down by the chart handed to us a few minutes before starting, that the Secret ran aground. All bands were at once sent out on the bowsprit,; but it was "no go," we were bard and fast, and bumping heavily. Whilst Mr Thos. Nicool proceeded to hoist signals for a steamer, Captain Lombard, who was " cool as a cucumber" the. whole time,gave orders to rip up the cabin floor, which was done without delay, and about three tons of ballast shifted forward. This bad the desired effect, the vessel forged ahead slowly, and in about 33 minutes, we were once more afloat. By the time ballast was trimmed and order restored, the Gannet was " hull down." However we decider! to give chase, and when within five miles of the winning post we came up alongside of her. It was too late though to win the race, for we had t:» give a time allowance of 15 minutes. It was impossible in the short dis tance, and with the light air blowing to gain this advantage, so a course was steered for the entrance, which we reached about 8 p.m.. any thing but well pleased with our day's sport. Immediately on landing, a protest was entered, and after several needless postponements during which time all preparations had been completed on board tho Secret for sailing to Wellington, the Committee, who were evidently at their wit's end, gave their decision, which was. that •'the race should be sailed over again on a day to be arranged between the owners of the Secret and Gannet," but the owner of tho latter yacht having got a notion into his head that he had

NOT THE GHOST OF A CHANCE

Unless the Secret were compelled to go over a hurdle, very wisely decided not to run. The result is that the prize reverts to the committee, and I think that they could not utilise it togreater advantage than in taking a few lessons in the art of managing a Regatta, for a greater want of s-stcm and unanimity in a com mittee, it were almost impossible to find.

TRIP TO WELLINGTON.

Thorouerhly disgusted with our treatment at the bands of the Nelson Regatta Committee, we got under weigh at 1 p.m. on the 19th inst.. and stood away for Wellington: wind steady at tlic. time from N.N.E. G p.m.. ofFPepins Island, where we lay becalmed until 11 p.m., when a light air sprang up from S.S.W. Saturday, 20th. at G a.m.. passed Steven's Tsla-nd with a nice breeze from W.S.W., which enabled us to reach the Brothers at noon, when the wind chopped round suddenly to S.E. and blew hard. Fortunately, at this time the Government s.s. Stella stood out from the south shore, and ran up alongside of us, and I need hardly say how {.lad we were to take advantage of Captain Johnston's kind offer of a tow into Port Nicholson. At 1 p.m. we dopped anchor off Wellington wharf, and were immediately boarded by flic Secretary of the Regatta, who at once placed us in possession of the Wellington Regatta rules, accompanied by a chart of the course. On Monday. 22nd inst., the wind was strong from N.E., when at 10 a.m. we got under weigh for a preliminary spin; however, an hour later when wo came in to take up our posit ion the weather was more settled, aud at 11.20, when the start was effected, we had a fine wholesail breeze.

It is needless for me to go into the details of the race, suffice that tho Secret soon distanced her competitors and came in winner by an hour and ten minutes, adding another feather to the cap of her builder, and doing further credit to the port of Auckland.

The arrangements connected with the regatta were on the whole very creditably carried out. Tho water was rather rough for pulling : but of course that was no fault of the committee, who worked well together, and are deserving of the greatest praise. There was, however, one fault which we could not but notice, and that was having botha Flag and Committee ship, the result being that competitors did not know -which -was the winning post. Fortunately on Monday, (with two exceptions.both coasters and yachtscamein at the wrong place), there was time for the win ning boats to rectify the error they had made, but a close race might easily be lost and won through a little mistake of this sort.

It seems sframce that in a flourishing place like this, and with the line sh"ct of water they possess, flic WollinKton people do not go in for a a larger class of yachts. The harbour is not at all suited for small yachts and open boats, tho wind being so puffy as to render it, unsafe to go out in them, especially with a N.E. breeze blow ing. On Regatta day WE were very glad, for tho sake of our topmast, to keep one hand con stantly by the Kafftopsail haliyards. I have very little doubt but what the Secret's successful Southern tour will have a beneficial effect in yachting circles, for from all accounts our Lyttelton and Wellington friends are determined that next year Auckland will have a hard struggle for the palm. Well, I admire their pluck, and it is to be hoped that before long the Southern yachtsmen will return our visit and give us a spin on the waters of the YVaitomata.

AN EPISODE.

One little episode has just occurred in con nection with our visit to the Empiro City. A few days since, your correspondent wishim. to get off to the Secret, and not finding the dingy ashore, took tho liberty of using a boat belongind to the schooner Otaki. This was at 5 a.m., but owing to the strong breeze blowing, it was late in the afternoon before she was sent back; the man to whom the boat was returned said it was "all right," as he had seen her alongside the yacht, and nothing more was heard of the affair until this morning, when just imagine Captain Lombard's surprise, as he was tapped on the shoulder by a " gentleman in blue," and placed in possession of a suspicious booking document, which on being opened proved to be a summons for £15 15s, " being amount claimed for detaining the Oraki two days." Of course the skipper was staggered, but being fond of a joke, asked the "bobby" if he did not think the owners of the Otaki had made a mistake, and were suing for the foil value of their vessel, instead of for tho use of her dingy. Tdo not know what the issue of the case will be: it comes on next Thursday, but will most likely be dismissed.

W"e now only await a rise in the weather glass, and we shall be off for Auckland. Before leaving, however, I shall telegraph, so that you may know when to expect us. We should have liked to be up in time for the Regatta, but of course that is now out of the question.

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Before R, C. Barstow Esq., R.M., and P. Comisky Esq., J.P.) CHARGE OF WILFUL MURDER. James Rogers, alias Roger Armstrong. was charged, on his own confession, with the wilful murder of William Mather, alias " Red Bill " at the Thames in the year 1866. Sub-Inspector Pardy said that the pri soner had given himself up to Constable Hammond at Whangarei, and stated that he had murdered the man, with whom lie worked in the year named. He would ask' that the case be remanded to the Thames, in order that the charge might be fully investigated. Remanded accordingly. IN Ci.A_N rC'_IlY EAXE. John Fowler, an elderly man, known as the Fort-street belLman, was charged with using abusive lai.guage towards Bridget \\ llnams, m the 2'Jth ult. Fowler said lie was guilty, but could not tell what evil motive induced him to insult his friend Bridget Williams, and he now wished to say that he was very sorry, and hoped Bridget would forgive him. Bridget, a line looking young woman, with a race like the rising sun, here stepped for ward and said that as Fowler was sorry ami evidently repentant, she would for'dve him ; she would not hurt a were Mr Cunningham :Do you wi_li to with, draw the charge. Bridget: I do indeed, your Worshi'i Johnny did not know what he was'don)" *' Iho Court allowed the ease to bo with.

RURAL LIFE- AT WAIN U_. William Elias was brought up on two charges of assaulting Thomas Scott and John and Robert Scott were charged & with assaulting Wm. Elias. The d_. 4 turbances occurred on the 11th January '! at Wainui. Mr Roes appeared for Elias, and Mr J o y for Scott. Mr Rccs described the circumstances which were briefly these. The Scotts and Elias were neighbours and land-owners and on the 11th January a savage bull belonging to Scott's got into Elias's stock yard, and ho furious was the bull, that Elias was afraid to go into his stock-yard. He accordingly went to Scott's and reques. ted the brothers to fetch the bull. He was received in a most uncourteous manner by the brothers Scott ; they swore at him, threatened, and chopped down his fence| and let his cattle out. Elias rode away and fearing that _ his life was no longer safe, considered it his duty to seek legal protection. There were four brothers of the Scott family, ;&11 young men of desperate character, and whom it was dangerous to offend. William Elias, settler of Wainui, seven miles from the Wade, gave evidence in accordance with _he above. He feared for his life, as they th_eatened to murder him. He got on his hor.su and rode away to Helens ville to lay an information, but the magis trate was out, and when he went back, the devastation .had began, and his fence was knoekd down. He then came to Auckland. Cross-examined by Mr Joy: Had been neighbours for three years; he did not swear at the Scotts, the: fence was his, but lie was not sure that "tho land was bis, as the survey lines were uncertain. He wished the defendant to lie boned over as his life was in hands, and he raight be a dead man at any time.

Mr Joy said the land, where Elias had put up the fence, was the property of the Scotts, and if they were wrong they must answer to the Road Be aid.

Mr Joy addressed th c Court. Robert Scott deposed that lie was one of the defendants, and remembered Mr Elias coming to him on horseback. He asked him to take the. bull away, to which he consented. Elias was excited and used rough language ; witness did not call him a liar, but told him to talk in a quiet manner and not be bullying about the bull. He rode away in a rage, catling them d- wretches — witness, and his brother John. They ascended a tittle hill Avhich comman-

ded a view of the whole district. Saw Mr Elias riding furiously in the distance; he rode against his brother Thomas and knocked him to the earth. Did not deny knocking down the fence because it was on their land. They had measured it, and pegged it ofi"; he was positive the land was theirs. John Scott, brother of the preceding witness, gave similar evidence ; he did not use abusive language to Mr Elias. To Mr Rees : He said their d bull had rushed him, and swore. Mr Rees : Did the bull swear? Witness :No; he roared. (Laughter). Thomas Abbotsford Scott, third brother, deposed that Mr Elias rode him down. To Mr Joy : He had nothing to do with the altercation ; he was run over against his will. Mr Elias turned his horse's head toward him, and the next moment he was lying on his back, fooking upwards. Counsel on both sides having addressed the Court, the Court ordered Robert Scott ta find sureties'ito keep tho peace for six months, and to find sureties, himself in £20, and two others in 210, and to pay costs. The other cases were dismissed. His Wor ship said he hoped the parties would endea vour to lead a more neighbourly life, and be warned by the Ararimu case, -which led to the death of Suanaghan and the impend ing fate of Curtin.

The City Accounts.

MR. WRIGHT'S REPORT—AND MR

BRODIE'S REPLY.

Mr. WRIGHT'S report, dated January 13th, 1877, states that ho has not examined the cash accounts, as he regarded the certificate of the auditors as placing that branch of tiie examination beyond his province. He, however, regards the correctness of the cash book as affording no reliable information as to the assets and liabilities of the City Council, nor of the properties held in trust, for the ratepayers, as a private firm might be hopelessly insolvent notwithstanding the accuracy of its cash book. As regards the present state of the books, and the manner in which they have been

kept since the appointment of Mr Brodie, he finds that they have never been balanced, and have not been kept in such a manner us to render a balance sheet possible ; that

they have never been kept cither by double or single entry, that there is an absence of system, and that a, very largo number are utterly wrong. He finds entries in different handwritings as late as 1576, dates disre garded, and confused, accounts in the ledger shewing transactions between 1572 down to August 1575 still open, and not corres ponding with the annual printed state nients. During the year ending October 31st, IS1?., lie finds the accounts wholly incorrect, and some of the largest and most important items are absolutely not shown at all, and that accounts amounting to many thousand pounds are unaccounted for. Bat < n the 31st October, many new accounts were opened with the object of covering up and rectifying errors and omissions of the pre ceding years, representing a sum of £200,000. He reports that the books are j now much more correct than they wore at the end of October last, but that they arc still by no means accurate. The blunders in the books are numerous, persis tent, and ridiculous. Down to as late as flic 2Sth October, 1876, debits were made to appear as credits, and on October 31st, intricate entries were made to rectify the blunder. The latter entries he regards as those of some skilled accountant, utterly irreconcilable with the ignorance of the elements of book-keeping exhibited in pre vious entries. Mr. Wright reports also that entries have been made in the journal ni palpable ignorance of their effect. The journal has not been kept since the 31st October, nor have the closing entries on "that date been posted into the ledger." He gives one instance of " Salaries account, at page 180, shewing only £73-. 15s. aa having been paid for a period of neartv two years, and there is still a debit of £131 ss. outstanding against Mr. F. L. Prime, which should be written off, inasmuch as it was paid to him as salary, without any balancing credit entry. In August, IS7G, there was no account of the large transactions with Messrs Mori-in, though they had up to that time received upwards of £40,000 on contract account. Mr. Ridings' account shows a debit of £125 out standing, and the stonebreaking machine entered as an asset of £350 on the 15th Nov. 1872, was not represented in the books on the 30th Oct. 1876. The loan of £100,000 for waterworks shewn in the annual printed accounts for 1875, did not anpear in the books until the 30th Oct. 1576, and until the same oa..e the City Council is represented in the books as possessing uo assets, and had no liabilities, but these entries were taken from thq previous annual balance sheet. Hie report which bristles with figures, con cludes by generally corroborating the state ments contained in Mr King's letter to the Council.

Mr Brodie, in a reply dated Jan. 2_n. says that had the wishes of the Council be__ Corned out as expressed iv the resolution + that Air Wright and another be appointed to make a joint report," the present report would not have been presented, as no respect* i) hie accountant would have signed his name' w BU#i «,oi^.^dgd l fo^UjUudhJ.UieiQusstW^

THE EVENING STAR, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1877.



o i? i p, c DRAPERY GOODS, NEW AND CHEAP!! The undersigned have Purchased at Auction a LARGE LOT of NEW DRAPERY GOODS, iust landed ex City of Auckland, tite whole of which having been bought at much tinder the usual Warehouse Rates, they can afford to offer to their Customers at Very Low.P hicks. The Parcel comprises :— Grey Calico, various qualities, from /.S'.d 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 9/1, 10/i&ll/iAlhambraQ.uilts. good qualities, 3TI Rough Brown Holland, from /G yard Half-dressed ditto, superior quality, very cheat) at /ltli and 1/ Black Lustre, and superior quality Black Bril liantine Lustres i New Prints, good patterns, at /!}, /SJ, and IQ \ very cheap Harvard Shirting, good quality, /7J yard Fine Irish Linen, lot of Remnants, a bargain from 1/1 yard Gents' Br. Cotton Half-hose do. £( merino fe«t Grey and Fancy Striped Mej-icj Kaif-bosc, and other goods too numerous to mention. All Purchasers of Draperyand Clothing should inspect our Stock, and prove that although xot belling off, we are giving full value fob MONEY. £3? One Shilling in the £ returned on all pur chases of 20s. and upwards. j RUSffBROOK^BRIDGMANj'



-RJOTICE OF REMOVAL. TJ a TKINS ISKG3 TO AN'XOUXCE THAT HE BST II A S REMOVED!!"®* TO THE Premises Next Door Below his Old Shop. 11. ATKINS Begs to heartily thank his numerous Cus tomers Cor their very liberal patronage from his first commencing business up to the present time, and to assure them that although his trade has increased to that extent, that his REMOVAL to more Commodious Promises was a neces sity, the same principles of business will still be adhered to: viz., keeping a good article, buying in the cheapest market, and selling at the smallest profit possible. His New Shop shall always be known as Tin. Cheapest in Auckland. •TvlI.A. will be happy to see all his old Customers, and as many new ones as may honour him with their patronage.! A SPLENDID STOCK OF Dlt AFP lIV AND CLOTHING "Will always be found, and the PRICES THE LOWEST IN AUCKLAND !j H. ATKIN S.



JjIURJSITUBJE ! FURNITURE! Ladies and Gentlemen about to Furnish arc respect fully requested to inspect the Large Stack of DRA WINa - ROOM, DINING - ROOM BEDROOM, AND GENERAL HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, In our New and Spacious Showrooms. T. & IL'COOKJH, 67, QUBEN-STREET r Adjoining Bank of New Zealand.



TO TOURISTS AND VISITORS TO WAIKATO AND THE LAKES. BUGGIES (DOUBLE AND SINGLE), AND SADDLE HORSES, ALWAYS READY FOR HIRE AT REASONABLE CHARGES. Parties intendingto go through to the Lakes provided with first-class animals by B. EDWARDS (Late of Cobb & Co.), LIVERY ST ABLE KEEPER, Hamilton Hotel, Hamilton, Waikaeo.



T INOLEUM! J.J CARPETS! (Ex 'Tamaya. FURNITURE LINOLEUM !—Unsurpassed for Durability ; Soft and warm to the feet. X INOLEUM!—Rest covering ever invented J__i for Dining Rooms, Halls, Offi ces, and Billiam Rooms. INOLEUM!—A large variety of Patterns at the City Hall Arcade. LINOLEUAiI— Fitted to any size or shape room by Holloway Se Garlick. /CARPETS!—Just landed, Velvet Pile, very V. handsome. CIARPET3 ! — Beautiful Brussels, latest de ■> signs, for Drawing Rooms. /CARPETS!—Kidderminster, large variety, vy Tapestry from 2/11 to 1/C. URNITURE !—lnlaid Walnut Centre Tables, Modern Drawingroom Suites FURNITURE !—Sittin^room Suites, Bedroom Furniture for all classes. URNITURE !—The best Show in Auckland. Show Rooms lUOt't. long. IBERAL DISCOUNT to CASH PURCHASERS. UY your FURNITURE, DRAPERY, AND CLOTHING at tub CITY HALL ARCADE. HOLLOWAY & GARLICK, Proprietors.



Don't be hoodwinked by imitators of Udolpiio Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps, who inclose vile spirits in bottles which contained the Simon Pure Schnapps and put bogus labels thereon. Repudiate these nostrums. Scruti nize the labels, and if they are deficient in exe cution or the ear-marks of authenticity, don't buy.