SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

(•This Afternoon, 1.49 fTTRH Vv rATER—a To-morrow Morning, 2.29 OT-.T <3irT __This Evening. 7.17

ARRIVAL S.

St. Kilda, «.*., from Wanganui

DEPARTURES.

3S^ eschSr^ Raglan (from One hiijiim) Halls, for London So^h ■ad?S.?Hclan_der 1 from Povortv Bay

IMPORTS.

- - wrmo imn Qnww, fmm London i 6 cases ~?^ h ~ d^s 3 cases bridles. 5 <^canw ,',..ir;. ™i' "•"• ___a ne .A _i_ snaffle sets, - f™*7£j S3fdriAn_?wMP>f2 cases hunting _^^«_KS»_!ss ,_ „ v o ! a]os collar check, i cas®^ '^P l***: --<-• ■>' -. ._%>_•«_ oHt can-la-re, and buggy ornaments, 5 w«5 «»• JS. fr - nc h leathers, 8 W_S__feiSs_U_= 2 casks lasts.—lreland Bros. " Per Iron Queen r.-- .. d Blac v s Ji^io^SS&A So PiSos. 2 do marble rfopV? T do tenders, 2 do iron safes. 4 do looking ISa 1 do E P. ware. 1 do musical boxes.3 do oVosrarms 1 do tea trays, 2 do tumblers, 1 do ,-?o?IC°r? 0 n?e g 2 bales brown casing paper 1 case 1 do?-cricketing goods, 2 do saddlery, 4 ca^ks canary seed.» , , o -hQipq 13 hales wool, 41 bales 14 cases, and 3 bales eotber. 33 sack" hoofs.-Ireland Brothers. 1 cise—T. and S. Mornm Tr aTll w lOtonsnop'-ainbulk. 33 cases gum.-Hender son and Macfarlane. „„_._ KXPORT3. Per City of Auckland:— -3 Sea kTnri%_£. 44 bales wool 7 baW rope, 5 bales canvas, 1 ease curiosi".ies.-H. B Morton. 40 t^ns rwa, 2.341 cases eT.tm.l3o tons mar, b^-anese, 14 cases sundries, 99 casks tallow, 1,-56 ales wool, 203 do flax. ti-ss Ladybird is exuected from the South, via, Tauranga and East Coast, this evening. The barque California was to leave -an F 4n-i4oat the end of October, for Auckland and Svdiiey, with a cargo of timber. The Linda Weber, brigantine, left on Saturday evening for Dnnedin witho cargo of timber. -_c. " The s s S f Kilda arrived in the Manukau on Saturday from Wanganui, and was to leave aOTinat'tbree o'clock this afternoon. The s.s. lona will leave for Russell on Wed- DThe T'^. .adybird left Taurffea at 2 o'clock this Bfternoon. and will arrive _tpigside Queen stre-t whara about, daylight to-Tnorrowmmn in"- She will make an exoursion to the not Staines at 10 o'clock. Retuon tickets, 4s. Vh° «» s Go-ahead. Captain Helander, arrived frem'Povertv Bay this morning. Passengers ; -r^Veilv; Mrs Allen and child, and 2 steerage. " The s.s. Taranaki, 327 tons, Captain E. ■•iVh'peV.r, left Lyttelton on the 22nd, and arrived at Onehunga at 6 o'clock this mormng. Ex nerienced fine weather all up the coast.-C. J. Edmiston. purser. Cargo: 6 bdls,47 cuses, _ Tiarceln 2 packages machinery, 1 truss, fas sentrers: Misses Wheeler Beaton. Dement, Wilson: Mesdames Townsend. Lamb, Cochrane, Waters. Benv, Mackv. Black. Cottier. Butt, Donald and 2 sons. Wheeler, 4 children and "rvant- Messrs Hay, Lamb. McDonald. Coch rane" Waters (2), Hunt. Glendining. Hunter, Dn'-in Foreman, Duncan, Austin, Nation. Donald. Bennett. Baylev, Reid. Cutts, Rev. Butt. 8 3+eerage. __

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

M_u,s will Close as Under: ' For Whitiangi, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowena, on Wednesday next, at 1 p.m. For Tauranga, Gisborne, Napier, and Southern Provinces, on Thursday r.ext. at 3 p.m. Per s.s. Wellington, on Tuesday, Bth instant, as follows:— _ . _ For India, China, Mediterranean Ports, aim Continent of Europe, at 7 a.m. For Taranaki, Southern Provinces, Aus tralian Colonies, and United Kingdom, via Suez aud Southampton (for letters specially so addressed), at S a.m. For United Kingdom, via Bnndisi. and late letters for Southern ProA-inces and Melbourne at 8.20 a.m. For newspapers, at C a.m. For money orders and registered letters, the preAdous eA'euing, at Ip.m. Per s.s. Australia, on Tuesday, Bth January, 1878, as follows:— __ riL For Sandwich I-lands, Lniterl States of America, Canada, BriMsh Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 3 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent, of Europe, at 3 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, ana neAvspapers. at 1.30 p.m. , Late letters, bearing an extra feeofud.m addition to the postage, Avill be received by the mail agent onboard th- steamer up to the time of sailing. N.B.—Tuesdav, Ist January, being a postal holiday, the mail- usually despatched on that day willbe closed on the previous o- cning, at 7 o'clock, S. B, BIS 3. Chief Postmaster. A little prudence in purchasing Avill onable.tho buyer to defeat the aims of the rascals Avho sell spurious counterfeits of Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schxapps in bottles Avhich formerly held the real article. See that the label bears the name and signature of the proprietor, observe its execution, and do not be imposed upon by plausible explanations of any deficiency.

BIRTH.

ALDERTON.—On the 29th December, at her residence, Karangahape Road, Newton, the wife of F. R. Alderton of a daughter.

GILLANDERS.—On the 31st December, at her residence, Drake-street, the wife of Charles Gillander3 of a son.

MARRIAGE.

THOMAS—DRUMMOND.—On the 23th Dec, 1877, at St. Matthew's Church, by Die Rev. R. S. Hassard. Charles Thomas, to Ellen, youngest daughter of Alexander Drummond, both of Auckland.—Sydney papere please copy.

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 29, 1877.

__•■__• canse tbat lac-sassis tancn, fiw the wrong that needs lesista-C*. t_f tie future in the distance, Ajtd-t-oß.£OOd«__t _-__-■<-«.

Sir "George Grey's reception at the Thames Avas a most complete and gratifying ansAver to those few Avind-bags Avhose politi cal opinions are supposed to find expression in the parliamentary action of the second member for the Thames. The tricks by Avbicb this little faction—the party of "schemers" par excellence—managed to misrepresent the feelings and opinions of the great mass of electors, appear latterly to have failed them. But it is still common to hear it asserted, as our morning con temporary expresses it to-day, tbat "the Thames, as a constituency, Avas rather opposed to Sir George Grey's party," and " the Thames people Avere hostile to his political programme." We thought this had been sufficiently ansAvered by the election of the Premier, under most disad vantageous circumstances, Avhile already a member for another constituency, and opposed to powerful local influences, at the head of the |poll. We maintain —as We have_ always main tained—that the sympathies of the gold fields population have never run counter to those great principles favourable to free, liberal, representative Government, Avhich underlie and overlay all the minor features of Sir George Grey's programme. Yet it is true that the Thames electors have, on more than one occasion, permitted cliquism and self-interest to speak publicly in the name of the people. There have come from that constituency resolutions of a character embarrassing to their representa tives. The little ring who promoted the " ten-and-sixpenuy dinner" have been more demonstrative for their numbers and better organised than the great mass of the people. Lately, hoAvever, the electors have become alive to the injury which their apathy Avas inflicting upon the constituency, and the Avrong they Avere doing their representative, and arising in its strength, the giant body of tbe electorate has put the enemy to utter rout. The demonstration of Saturday has compensated for greater shortcomings than any of the Thames electors have been guilty of, and has emphatically demonstrated Avhat are the real sentiments of the A rast -majority of the inhabitants. Not even in Auckland, which Avas regarded as Sir George Grey's great stronghold, was the reception more enthusiastic, the-approval of his expressei political principles 1 more decided, and the determination to support llim and his party more loyal than at the Thames on Saturday night. The Premier had reserved for the special approval of his constitnents some explanations as to his .conduct on prominent measures during the recent session. The most important is that which eriicidates the • motives which -T.rluencct. .his mind in endeavouring to prevent the^Governor's assent^c the Laud BilL Sir -freorge Grey shewed that the Canterbury runholders, though tkej held an' unexpired period of three year on their leases, Avere' determined \ to force on a renewal for ten years, being apprehensive that during the interval the voice of tho people would have wrested from them their imquitous monopoly th- of

common rights in the Crown Lauds of the colony, and being pressed by great English monetary companies who had advanced capital on the runs. Between the ScyUa of these log-rolling, runholders, and the Charybdis of open partizanship on the part of a Governor who sympathised with the squatocracy, and refused a dissolution, Sir George Grey and his party were reduced to the humiliation of holding office by the .Speaker'sl casting vote. Sir George Grey further brought out in a striking manner the fact that a great landed aristocracy has been established by mil quitous facilities granted to favoured indivi duals, Avhose children Avill thus be enabled to lord it over the great mass of the people, and to perpetuate those glaring social dis parities and great source of misery Avhich afflicts older countries.

An important cable message received late this afternoon appears in our telegraphic column. England, in response to a pressing invitation from the Sultan, has consented to mediate betAveen the belligerent PoAvers, and Austria has declared emphatically that she adheres to the Treaty of Paris. The pacific intervention of England aa_ll be backed by a poAver which will probably compel Russia to avoid the risk of making an enemy of a nation Avhich could speedily reverse the fortunes of the Avar, and turn her hardly Avon victories into crushing defeats. Currency is siven to a rumour that the Premier intends on the opening of the British Parliament to submit a proposal for the acceptance of the suzerainty of Egypt by Great Britain with the consent of the Sultan and the Khedive. A philo-Turkish meetinc has been held in Trafalgar Square, at which pro-Russians interfered and tore doAvn the Crescent flag.

A meeting of the shareholders of the Auckland Steam Packet Company was held this afternoon, and the minutes of the previous meeting were confirmed.

The usual fortnightly meeting of the Loyal Fountain of Friendship Lodge, 1.0.0. F., M.U.A.D. has been postponed until Thursday next, January 3rd. The Mammoth Exhibition, under the management of Mr P. Doran, Avill be re opened this evening in the "Pavilion of natural Avonders," opposite the Theatre Royal. In order to keep pace Avith the times, the manager has reduced the prices of admission.

A very successful Free Templars' enter tainment in celebration of the opening of a neAV Lodge at Whatapu, was held in the district school-room last Aveek. The Lodge was christened the "Star of Whatapu." The programme consisted of magiclantern views, explained by Mr McKaine, songs aud recita tions. The following officer s Avere installed : R. Player, W.C.T. ; Thomas Hewson, W.V.T. ;D. Coombs, W.S.; Henry Austin, W.F.S. ; P. Brougham, W.T. ; John Dugan, W.C. ; Henry Perkinson, W.M. ; Charles Tavlor, W.LG. ; John Johnson, W.O.G. ; John Sheeny, P. W.C.T. ; Sisters Harriet Brogham, W.R.H.S. : Johana Ruse, W.L H.S. ; Alice Perkinson, W.D.M. ; Elizabeth Perkinson, W. A.S. Yesterday afternoon at All Saints' a great treat Avas enjoyed, being the last of the children's services of the old year. The church Avith its floral decorations lent an additional effect to the pleasing appearance of young people, and a fair sprinkling of residents in their summer attire. The singing, Avhich formed the chict part of the°service, Avas generally remarked to be the most SAveetly rendered of any that has vet taken place. Great praise is due to Mr Martin SAvaIIOAV and Mr G. Lambert. The former has been assiduous in playing on these occasions, aud the latter gentleman has now undertaken the management of the music in the school, and Aye can judge from the rich voices amongst the_ elder boys and especially the girls—a fine held is open for making a good choir. The Rev. E. N. Bree gave a very impressive address, and thus concluded the last of these services of the year Avhich are beginning to be so much appreciated and are proving of in estimable Avorth.

We notice that upon the recommcudation of the Registrar-General, His Excellency has been pleased to appoint John King Esq. to be principal Census Enumerator and Collector of Agricultural Statistics for the counties of Rodney, Remuera, Eden, Manukau, and the Boroughs. His appoint ment arrived by the Taranaki to-day, and he Avill enter upon his duties at once. The name of Frank McCormick, avlio is the purchaser of No. 2 booth on the lace course, AA ras misprinted James McCormick. The midnight service at St Paul's Cathedral Church Avill be commenced this evening at half-]: ast 11 o'clock. At the meeting of ratepayers held at Stokes' Point on Friday, December 28th, Mr. Tunny was elected a trustee of the North Shore High way Board, and afterwards chairman of the Board, in place of Mr. H. J. Hawkins. We are glad to notice among the pas sengers to-day per Taranaki, Mr A. V.- Macdonald, Avho has been absent in Wel lington for the last ten days, having been called there by the railway authorities on public business. The band of the Auckland Scottish Com pany Avill hold a picnic at Woodside on Wednesday, January 2nd, for Avhich great preparations are being made. The steamer Avill leave the wharf at 9.30 a.m. Double tickets may be obtained from members of the band at the low price oi 4s. A qua drille party will be held at the Catholic Institute in|the evening. Three more Ministers have been re-elected in NeAV South Wales.

A terrific hailstorm has occurred at Brisbane, doing considerable damage to the town.

The Star will not be published to morrow (NeAV Year's Day). The whole staff are panting for a glorious midsummer holiday, and unite in wishing an indulgent and most extensive circle of friends the compliments of the season.

The opening of the new Cambridge Hall Avas celebrated by a concert on Thursday last.

Some time ago, an harmonium was intro duced in a parish church in the north of Scot land, whereat some of the members took offence and left. One of them soon after met another member, and inquired " Hoo the harmonium Avas gettin' on?" " Oh, fine," Avas the answer, "jist blaAvin' aAva' the chaff an' keep'in' the corn." The following tenders have been accepted for District Hospital :—Messrs. Hewin Bros, for groceries ; R. Elley, meat ; T. Johnson, milk.

A beautiful address Avas presented this afternoon to tbe Rev. R. S. Hassard, of St. Matthew's church, by Mr Brooking, on be half of tbe various temperance societies of Auckland, expressive of their sympathy, and thanking him for his earnest efforts in the cause of sooriety, signed by Rev. B. T. Dudley, John B. Russell, Samuel Brooking, E. Lelioy, and James Cox, representatives. The illuminated address Avas tbe Avork of Mr J. E. Dixon, and the letter "R." Avas copied from an old M.S.S. in the Nurem berg Cathedral of tbe 15th century. Rev. Mr Hassard made a suitable reply to the spirit of the memorial, and thanked the deputation for their token of esteem, Avhich he should cherish through life among his pleasant memories of Auckland.

On Saturday afternoon last, Avhile the Customs launch Avas passing the North Head, Mr James Carey, the engineer, slipped from the floor, and his foot entered the aperture in Avhich the shaft revolves. An old sack got entangled with the foot, and saved it from anything worse than a f eAv slight bruises, Avhich wiU have the eiiect of disabling him for several days. A church parade of the Auckland Artillery Company and Auckland and Thames Naval Brigades took place yesterday morning. About 100 members of the latter, including the band, arrived in toAvn on Saturday evening, under command of Captain Best. The three Companies mustered strongly at the foot of Grey-street, and marched to St. MattheAv's Church, preceded by their respective bands, Avhich played a number of march tuues. At the conclusion of the service, they again marched through he town.

Mr Stephen Massett will probably give his first "Drawing-room Entertainment' at the Choral Hall some day this week—due notice of Avhich Avill be given. He is the composer of some of the most popular songs in America, among them, "My Bud in Heaven" and "Sunset," Avhich Madame Bishop has sung so often in Australia. Tavo of the California journals are thus compli mentary :—The ''San Francisco Morning Call" says: "The gems of the evening Avere the touching poems ' Beautiful Suoav and 'The Vagabonds;' Avhile repeating 'The Vagabonds,' and speaking to the beggar's dog ' Roger,' Aye saw numbers of the°audience rise to catch a sight of the imaginary dog, the acting and reading were so natural. 'Joe's Death ' was exquisitely rendered." The " Alta Calif ornia " says: "He is serious, poetical, original, humorous, always attractive, not at all tedious, now grave and anon gay, and keeping the audience in good humour." Fresh gold discoveries are reported in New Guinea, as stated in telegram from our special reporter at Grahamstown on Saturday. Sir George Grey has had for some time under consideration a plan to despatch a party of experienced Thames miners to prospect Nesv Guinea, „nd he has been_ in correspondence with the Royal Geographical Society on the subject. Sir George Grey, who is a distinguished member of the Society, and has from time to time rendered valuable services in the cause of geographi cal discovery, pointed out to the Society that the discover-y of gold in NeAV Guinea would lead to a large British emigration to that comparative terra incognita, and Avould lead to the spread of colonisation. By the last mail Sir George received a letter from the Secretary of the Royal Geographical Society stating that they have given up fitting out expeditions at their own entire cost, but are willing to grant a subsidy to- Avards the proposed object. The usual fortnightly meeting of the Templar Benefit Society has been postponed until Tuesday, the 7th instant. We aie in receipt of a further batch of Parliamentary papers by the s.s. Taranaki.

Arrangements are in progress to convert the present Grammar School building into a policd barracks at an early period. Mr Inspector Thomson, and Mr Mahoney, architect, have been in consultation on the matter, and the latter gentleman AA'ill at once -jrepare the necessary plans and specificitions for the proposed alterations. As soor as possible the police will remove to their m\v quarters. The lonvenieut hour at which the morn ing tran leaves Hamilton, 6.30, is very satisfactory to the residents, and in order still further to popularise the railway, the cnterprsing Mr B. Edwards has decided to meet c _ry train Avith a coach carrying pas sengers and luggage. The train Avhich leaves Auckland at 1.35, arrives in Hamil ton at '.15, passengers arrive in Hamilton per coa*h at 7.30. A snail river screw steamer has been built b; Mr __.cl-.nes, of Mangawai, to the order if Messrs Dargaville and Seymour, junr. ihe is to be used in the bush trade. Her kel is 65ft., beam, 13ft.; depth of hold, s|tft. She has a snug little cabin, 12ft. long, fir the accommodation ot passengers. The nichiuery is in course of construction by MrllaAvkeswoud, of the Staffordshire Ironworks. The planking of the iicav steamd is all heart of kauri, aud tho frame and rife pohutukawa, The trial trip will take pice in the course of a few Aveeks. Dr Vallis, M.H.R., intimates that he will aclress the electors of City West, in the roung Men's Christian Asssociation Booms at half-past seven o'clock on Wedneday evening next. Zvlr A. Black will ocupy the chair.

MesfS George Broadfoot, Peter Clark, and Alxander Whyte Avere duly nominated at nooi to-day to fill the office of Councillor vacantai the Borough of Onehunga through the recnt election of Mr Waller to the office of Maor. The poll is to be taken on Thursdy, the 10th January. There Avere not mre than about half-a-dozen of the burgeses present. A vote of thanks to the Returing Officer, Mr O'Callaghan, con cludecthe proceedings. Theratepayers of Hokitika have by a majoriy agreed to borrow £16,000 for water Supply/, £8,000 drainage, £4,000 beach rotective works, and £700 for road- Avays, botAvays, &c. Mr Y. D. Murison, for many years editor!the ;' Otago Daily Times," died on Satindy morning after a long and painful illness Thovife of Mr V?. Elliott, superinten dant f the locomotive department died yestejay, having been an invalid for a con siderale time past. Much sympathy is felt for MElliott and family. \ To-day, at noon, the Aiole of the working department at the Rilway Station were closed. The men volunlrily determined to cease Avork and attenithe funeral. Pressor Hennickie appeared in con junctln with Madame Stella, on Saturday evenlj in the Albert Hall with their little worlcjof " Magic and mystery," but failed to reave that amount of patronage Avhich their interesting entertainment deserved. The fcA-er tricks of the Professor Avere per form! undetected by the eyes of the spec tator the aerial suspension of the entranced lady }as performed, and the mystery box open! to the astonishment of the auditory. Prof^or Hennickie Avill re-open his temple of nigic this evening, and distribute a numjr of serviceable gifts. Nil members of the Victoria Company met ] the rifle range on Saturday for the purple of competing for the medal. The follojng scores were made :—Volunteer BoAvjn, 44; Volunteer Taylor, 42; Voliteer E. Cooper, 41 ; Corporal J. -Teigj 37 ; Corporal J. W. Leigh, 37; Voliteer Payne, 36 ; Corporal Duff, 35 ; Volileer Fairs, 34; Volunteer Haslett, 26. jblunteer Bowden forfeits three points and plunteer Taylor one point for non-at tendkee at parades, and this leaves Boav ded,]aylor, and E. Cooper 41 each. The highjt score at the longest range was made by Vluuteer Taylor. Apmergency meeting of the Alexandia Masiic Lodge Avas held at Alexandra on the th instant (St. John's Day,) when ihe folic ing officers were installed : —Brother NeilfcLeod, W.M. The W.M., Brother NeidcLeod, having been re-elected, in stall the follOAving brethren in their resi tive offices :—Brother T. Kirk, S. W.; Bro ,r W. Jones, J. W.; Brother J. Aubin, Trearer; Brother R. F, Lacon, Secretary ; Brosr G. M. <iA. Ahier, S.D. ; Brother T. E. ()tigh, J.D. ; Brother R. W. Roche, I.Gj Brother Tristram, Tyler (re-elected). Theemainder of the evening Avas spent hi couyiality.

DEPARTURE OF THE CITY OF AUCKLAND.

Th favourite and regular London and Au land trader is to leave for London this eve lg with the fir-st slant of wind. She has ad quick dispatch, and takes aAvay a f cargo loaded by the New Zealand Shi ing Company, and the following pas sen rs ;—Saloon; Rev R. S. and Mrs Ha ird, Mrs Still, Miss Morton, Mr Siriion. Steerage : Mrs Harriet Tij and infant, Mrs Taps ell and 3 c dren, Mrs Barrett and daughter, Miss Hei Donaghy, Avho were conveyed on boi by one of the Ferry Go's steamers at ha] >ast three o'clock. A large number of frit Is accompanied them to see them oil', and faijell cheers were given on the steamer leajig the vessel's side. The " City "is in godtrim, drawing about 16ft aft, and 15ft 9iiirward, aud Captain Ralls is confident of iking a quick run home. We wish bot Mrs Ralls and the gallant skipper Gcjpeed, and add to our goodbye "Au Refer." " j

MIRROR OF THE WORLD.

CIFO ED'S " Minor ohe World,"; in the Lo3-street Hall, attracted a Aery fair aumce on Saturday evening, and the vi<3, chiefly of London, were admired. Th entertainment, comprising as it does ph )graphic vieAvs of magnificent scijry in all parts of the Avorld, js on of the best that Ints ever been ex hiled in this city. The photographs of atuary too, from the principle art

galleries ofjEurope, are well worth seeing. They are shoAvn on an immense screen by the aid of the powerful limelight, and are an immense improvement on the old fashioned panorama. Photography euuU*",' hardly be turned to a more instructive ofl attractive purpose. There are altogether^ 2,000 views, ahd these include London as ifl| is, Scotland, France, before and after thew war, Italy, Rome, St. Peter's, the; Vatican. Switzerland, Mont Blanc, Russia, Turkey. Egypt, Pompey's Pillar, Cleopatra's needle, .1 the Sphinx, the Great Pyramid-, and many other objects of interest. There are also vie\\s from Melbourne, Invercargil, Dunedin, Wellington, Christchurch, and Nelson. A change is made in the pro gramme each evening, and to-night will embrace the second part of Scotland, from GlasgOAv, through the land of Burns, to John O'Groats. The dancing skeleton will be introduced, and will perform a shadowy step dance. We Avould advise our readers not to miss such an excellent opportunity of Avitnessing a really good entertainment Avhich Avill doubly repay the trouble.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before R. C. Barstow, Esq., R.M.) 1 WINDING UP. John Saunders Avas charged with drunken ness, and subjected to the usual punish ment. Mary Collins was found drunk at seven! o'clock yesterday morning, and being an old hand, Avas fined 10s. UNDER THE ACT. James Evers, an habitual diunkard, was charged under the Vagrant Ad; with being a disorderly person, and a rogue and vaga bond. Prisoner said it Avas quite true, and was sentenced to one month's imprisonment Avith hard labour. MOVING A PIANOFORTE. Frederick Burgess was charged Avith driving across the footpath, in Grafton road. Defendant said he had to move a pianoforte, and Avas compelled to cross the path, as he was unable to carry it. lined 2s 6d, costs 5s 6d. FORGIVENESS. George Plough aaas charged Avith assault ing Ellen Pridmore, by striking her in the eye and knocking her doAvn, on the even ing of the 29th inst. The defendant, it appeared, had suffi ciently apologised to Mrs Pridmore, and as it Avas Christmas time she had forgiven him. Defendant Avas a lodger ac the Blue Post Dining Rooms. The charge Avas AvithdraAvn. A DISREPUTABLE CHARACTER. James Iygham, of Chancery Lane, Avho lias frequently been convicted of various offences, Avas brought up on a charge of in decently assaulting Sarah Gibbon, a little girl of eight years old, on the 30th in stant. The particulars of the case were very brief. The assault took place at the back of Mr Shortt's premises about noon in the course of yesterday. Mr Shortt, hearing thescreams. looked out and-„av the prisoner in the act of taking liberties Avith the child, AvhoAvas crying. Ongoing to the spot, Ing ham said it Avas his own child, but on ques tioningher, hefoundthatprisoner hadmadeja false statement. Prisoner immediately hastened aAA'ay, leaving the child to tell her own story to Mr Shortt, Avho at once in formed the police, and from the description given, it Avas at once settled that the scoundrel Avas none other than the notorious Ingham, Avho had been convicted on a similar charge at the Supi-eme Court some years ago. Sergeant Martin traced the prisoner to Stanley-street, and as soon as Ingham saAv the Sergeant he started at full ' speed toAvards the Domain, Avith the Sergeant pretty close to his heels. Ingham rushed into the shrubs for a shelter, but was shortly dragged to light by the strong arm of justice. He AA'as recognised at once by Mr Shortt as the man Avho had com mitted the assault. On being asked if he were guilty or not guilty, he confessed that he Avas guilty, but A\ ras drunk at the time. His Worship said he Avould rather have sent the case to a jury at the Supreme Court, as prisoner would then most likely be imprisoned for the term of his natural life. Sentenced to six months' imprisonment with hard labour. This avus all the business.

CRICKET.

A cricket mateh —Auckland Cricket Club v. Waikato Zingari—will be played in the Do main to-morrow morning at 10.30.

CABLEGRAMS.

Successes of Servians

[SPECIAL TO PRESS AGENCY.]

Great Philo-Turkish Meeting

in London

Disraeli Proposes England to be Suzerainty of Egypt.

Austria Adheres to Treaty

of Paris

LONDON, Dec. 29. After two days' fighting the Servians cap tured Phot.

Mukhtar Pasha has gone to Eroungian, leav ing Ismael Pasha in command.

Erzeroum is now nearly invested.

An anti-Russian meeting Avas held in Trafal gar Square, at Avhich there Avere riotous pro-, ceedings. The pro-Russians interfered, tearing the Turkish flags down.

The "Whitehall RevieAv" states that the Premier intends proposing to Parliament to accept the Suzerainty of Egypt, Avith the Sul tan's and the Khedive's consent.

Austria, in her reply to the Turkish note, in timates she Avill only permit Russia to conclude peace on the basis of the Treaty of Paris, and will not sanction the dismemberment of Tur key, nor allow the Black Sea to become a Rus sian lake.

LONDON, Dec. 28 INTERNATIONAL ROWING MATCH.

The American champion, Courtney, has agreed to row Trickett. LONDON. Dec. 29. ENGLAND CONSENTS TO MEDIATE.

The Sultan solicited mediation by the British Government Avith the Emperor of Russia, and England has consented. Courtney Avishes Trickett to roAV in America.

THE RACES TO-MORROW.

HOTSPUR'S NOTES.

The second day's programme of the Auckland Racing Club's Summer Meeting Avill be run off to-morrow. There are six events for decision, beginning with tho Derby at one o'clock. For this there are five acceptances, viz., The Pope. Queen Mab, The Baron, Jessamine, and Venus Transit. It is not improbable that all Avill come to the post. If she is in good form, Venus Transit Avill Avin easily. It was apparent that last Wednesday it Avas bad riding more than anything else which caused her to make such a bad show in the Cup, and I shall accordingly expect to see her do better and run firat, with Queen Mab second for this race.

The Selling Race ought to be a moral of Isaac Walton, unless a surprise is effected by Rally, i years, whose light weight, 7st libs, might give him a shoAv.

The Publican's Purse, weight-for-age, will bring on Hippocampus, which will have the effect of making the field very select. He should Avin easily.

For the Racing Club Handicap there are five acceptances, viz.:—

St. lbs. Lara, oyr?., 8 10 Elsa, syrs., _rj Gillie Callum, syrs 7 & Venus Transit, 3yrs., .. .. 7 0 Rosalie, 3y.s 6 8 This should prove a very open race. Lara is likely to he made favourite, but he will have all his Avork to do. He meets Elsa on lllb3 worse terms than before, and Venus Transit on 2_lbs Avorse terms.

Gillie Callum has been doing well since t* c 26th, and by some is much fancied, while Rosalie is a smart filly, and might pop her head in first. Venus Transit, Lara, and Elsa is the order 1 shall exptrct them to arrive in. The Gra^d Stand Handicap may bring out five or six of the acceptances, but only Perfume, Bst., has any

the li mile course lrihe should bring these liwbl IS7f£ lOSe Wf¥> but X ll_n k Mr Walter- II f : Sll^' Jl hllck *»»dle race will con r „u. tnte thf v — "> •■!•. one will lay tne i ■; "■':■'■■■, b. . ...'" v ,r^ T3thpleof j . L; '; . _, -riON ANNUAL FETE. The children attending the >-arious Sunday-schools in connection 'Avith the Auckland Sunday-school Union will receive their annual treat to-morrow at the Domain. They Avill meet at their respective school rooms, which they are to leave for the general rendezvous, foot of WeJlesley-streer, .as follows :—Newton, Franklin Road, and Sheridan-street schools at 9 o'clock, United Methodisi;, St. James', Beresford-street, and Wellesley-street schools at ten minutes past 9, William-street school at fifteen, and Alexandra-street school at twenty minutes past nine. On the arrival of the schools at the foot of Wellesley-street, they will march up Wellesley-street in the follOAving order :—l, Newton School ; 2, United Methodist School ; 3, Franklin Boad School; 4, St. James's School ; 5, Beres ford-street School ; 6, William-street School; 7, Wellesley-street School ; 8, Sheridan-street School ; 9, Alexandra street School. The Parnell Presbyterian, Mount Eden, and Ponsonby Baptist Schools Avill leave their respective school-rooms in time to meet the procession at the Domain. The teachers will accompany their classes on tbe left side of the procession, and be responsible for their conduct and amuse ment during the day. No SAvings Avill be alloAved. Mr Noah Wood has been ap pointed superintendent. ENGINEER VOLUNTEERS. The annual excursion of the Auckland Engineer Volunteers Avill take place to rn orroAv. The company and band will assemble at the fire-bell, Grey-street, and perform throughjthe toAvn to the wharf. THE lONA Avill also make an excursion to the KaAvau, and the Argyle to the Hot Springs, to-mor roAv ; each leaving the Avharf at ten o'clock precisely. There Avill also be an excursion to Motutapu. AMUSEMENTS. The evening amusements Aviil include the Theatre, the "Mirrorof the World,"and Pro fessor. Henneckie's "Magic and Mystery," ac cording to notices elseAvhere.

TELEGRAPHIC.

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT. COROMANDEL, this day. SIR GEORGE GREY'S VISIT. Mercury Bay : The Ocean and Ness are loading. A vessal has just arrived outside the heads to-day. Sir George Grey telegraphed to Mr. George McLeod that he Avill visit Coromandel on Thursday. MONTHLY GOLD RETURN. The monthly return of gold is : Anchor, 26^ ozs.; Tokatea, 105 ozs.; Tokatea tribute, 617 ozs.; Pride of Tokatea, 18 ozs.; Royal Oak, 3<Dj4 ozs.; Union Beach, 650 ozs.; Eliza beth, 9 ozs.; Pactolus, 21 ozs.; WaipaAva, 8 ozs.; sundries, 29 ozs. The Albatross aud Fannie left yesterday from Whangapoua. A preliminary meeting will be held to-night to Avelcome Sir George Grey, and the public meeting takes place on Wed nesday. WELLINGTON, this day. A FISHY-LOOKING AFFAIR. There is a good deal of talk here jusfc noAV in reference to a certain cheque for nearly £3,000 paid to Saunders, Corporation contractor. The cheque Avas signed by the City Engineer, the late Mayor, and one of tne CounciUors ; but, as the matter had never been brought before the Public Works' Committee, and no details have been fur nished as to hoAv the extras for Avhich the cheque Avas given Avere composed, people said the whole thing looked uncommonly fishy. Since then it has been found that the Councillor Avho signed the cheque paid it into the Commissioner of Lands for a laud purchase in.A\"hich he and the contractor Avere interested. Although nothing in any way damaging to anybody has yet been elicited in connection Avith the transaction there is talk that a criminal prosecution is not an improbable outcome of the Avhole affair. THE PROPOSED|VISIT OF MINIS TERS. TAURANGA, this day. In anticipation of a visit from Sir George Grey and the Hon J. Sheehan, the natives Avere making suitable preparations to receive them, Avhen on Saturday morning a special telegram, purporting to be from Auckland, Avas posted on the notice board of our local paper:—" Sir George Grey and Mr Sheehan gone to the Thames, etc' Tauranga Avill not be visited." The natives on receipt of this information dispersed to their settle ments highly indignant, determined to stop all preparations. One gentleman not believing the assumed telegram, wired to Mr Sheehan at the Thames, and received promptly "That they Avere coming," but too late to inform the natives. This is con sidered to be an attempt to prejudice the minds of the natives against the present Government. PORT CHALMERS, this day. Arrived : Auckland, ship, from London. Spoke May Queen, for Auckland. (press agency.] WELLINGTON, this day. LATEST SHIPPING. . _fT-S____ The schooner Ellerton, from Wongapoa, put in late on Saturday through stress o Aveather, and sailed again this morning fof Lyttelton. It is understood that Colonel Reader succeeds Colonel Moule as Under-Secretary for Defence. VOLUNTEER REGULATIONS. The GoA rernment has decided to increase the minimum strength of a Volunteer corps to a captain, lieutenant, sub-lieutenant, sergeant-major, three sergeants, three cor porals, bugler, and 39 privates; total, 50. Under the old regulations the total strength Avas only 30. The required maximum strength of bands hitherto Avas unlimited ; noAV it is limited to 14 for a company, and 25 for a battalion. SWEEPSTAKES. North's £1,000 SAveep on the Wellington Cup Avas all taken up in a few days, and there was such a rush for tickets that a second £1,000 SAveep on the Cup Avas started by the same person, of Avhich 200 are already applied for, altbough only opened this morning. PORT CHALMERS, this clay. Arrived—Carl Ludvic, brig, with a cargo of tea from FoochoAv via Yokahama ; Can terbury, ship, from Glasgow, with immi grants. Sickness on board.

The Grahamstown Meeting.

ISPEECHES BY ,THE~PRE7^_ J - THE xNATIVE^?!I^ JICFROM OUR S^ L E i p • , 'LONG before eiirhs O VW_- -+il , ' f -.£r the public 0 leeting^i^ed. ] . ».oyal, GrahamstoAvn, cV erv Da t Th/a^ J $?^^e__Ss i.-n.sipgto their feet, Waving hats a Si lenv :«---chieis. On the motion Sf l^**- ' ' seconded by Mr W. Wood Ids W M I The Chairman opened the uroo<w ; "I .ointmgout that the accession* todfflf ßS| • .he Thames receiving that f»,v ,sultm ' '...ttention to its Avants which $ f^ 6 of held _ (During theitime the ChliSn ?" the jet in the middle of the IS • -was tnmed out, but Dr. Kil-n™- „ **& and remarked thtShoST , -puldnotsee ■ tl* audience he Sfjn Apeak to then*) He atMbuted S ■ueceffi ot the Grey Ministry to the fe • that they possessed the confidence of t *£ j.. ..majority ot the people. notwit-Mtandin.^ /.act that there had been at o^^ 7 1:niall majority against them mParESu bThe speaker concluded by intrSuS^ 3 George Grey to the meeting, which av£«, c s^nalforrepeatedroundsoTheSycS 6 3 The Premier waited for a brief space . while th e gas-jet, were being relighted h_ " tl ai& $&?** Stick frora the bSfy of the 3 hall, and this operation excited considerable amusement When the gas w as re i/S 1 a man shouted "Come in again, Ro^e" a_S ' I turn out the gas if you dare." (S j laughter and cheers.) vwea. t The Premier, on rising, Avas received Avith 1 renewed cheenng. He said he spoke t_ 3 those who had placed him in his present t position, to whom he owed an explana 1 tion, and to Avhom he looked to main" ? tain him in the struggle so lon» as he _r° r _e„ f°l* thf pu^Kc inter^t. (Cheers) 1 He had entered on the responsible duties of ' ■ - his office trusting to to the right of appeal t ing to the constituencies, AvhichAA-ould have 1 been alloAved under similar circumstances - 111 Great Britain. Had that constitutional , course been folloAved he had no doubt that 3 he anciihis colleagm say ould havacommanded 1 a majority, but noAv they Avere reduced to ■ the position of holding office virtually upon 5 the casting vote of the Speaker. Whenever i tneir A'ieAvs ran counter to personal i_ - terests or prejudices, they were opposed by 5 a majority, and placed in the humiliating • position of remaining in office aftermeasures had been voted which Avere repugnant to the interests cf the people. Bit tne Minis- I try considered it their duty to fight on, and ■ not to leave the people of New Zealand for I three years without a voice in fnaintaining I their views.- The land question of New Zealand was different to anything existing in the mother country, and therefore repre° 1 sentatives Avere not returned as here to serve • mere private interests. Here a great - change in public opinion might occur in ' the course of three years, and such had occurred, but he had found it impossible to obtain a dissolution, but Southern members ■ of great ability and proved disinterested ; ness had aided him in colonializing tne Land Fund. If the Ministry could succeed in liberalizing the franchise, so that 12 months' residence in a place should qualify a man to vote, the people Ardild acquire • t the management of their 4vn affairs. The people must educate theaselves to a knowledge of political affairs;, and they would then be able in procesjj of time to prevent wrong-doing. They mist help him to obtain their rights. (Cheers,and a voice "Aye Avill.") They must take ax interest in public affairs, make their voices heard, hold meetings, and petition agdnst wrong (Cheers.) Next session tfere would be a great political stnggle into Avhich he and his colleague would so fearlessly enter, and if his jonstituents were satisfied that he. Avas cbing right, they ought to stand by him. With a fair franchise they would get a dissduiion, and could settle the question of tamtion upon * an equitable basis. They wee to blame for many of the abuses that h__ prevailed in respect to the administraion of the public lauds. Like dumb mi, they held their tongues ; like sleepy m_, they had been apathetic Avhen they have been up and complaining, holdng meetings and passing resolutions ; Avith uch support he and his colleagues Avouldjhave been enabled to accomplish more thin they had done. Some £SO,OOO or £100,f)0 had been expended out of loan to prodre land for settlement in the Thames disiict, and on that money they would have tojay interest. Had it helped them to secure lomes ?—(A Voice : Yes, in the Old Menl Refuge}.— Well, he did not know that th! money had secured to them even the right a. admission to the old Men's Refuge. (Laugher andgrea cheering.) The place Avas no] based on IaAV; it Avas not admitted by ay existing laAv that they had the right of Emission to the institution; but one thing Avi absolutely fixed by law, viz., that they wald have to pay the interest on loans. (Laufiter.) The land purchased out of that loarAad been in gieat part monopolised by ]men who did nothing for "it, so ths a great injury had been done to every man and every lady Avho now ieard him. and to their children, and pater pro portion of the taxation falls onaecessaries, They would have to pay inteJst on the loan, and on the money experjed for the opening up of the land. (Sir Gorge Grey then referred to the plurality oivotes given upon property, and the " Fortjfive voting poAver," repeating the argumep used'liy him in the Choral Hall.) Sucline_ualit.es influenced the minds of men, fdbwed them to then- homes, deprived thei of hope, rendered them improvident, fiade many intemperate and criminal, ft and his colleagues had to dare muchln fighting against influences in Government House, the Legislative Council, anl House of Representatives. They did soin the full belief that they possessed the Infidence of the people; and he Avas prepare|o runrisks rather than sear his consciencejrith the be lief that he had not courage I do right. (Loud Cheers.) Sir George Grey went h. to re view the dissolution cor^pondence. and the colonializationof the |nd Fund.) With reference to the renjpl of" the Canterbury leases even supposif there had not been a dissolution there itould have been time to consider what ay- just and fair, as the leases Avould not If c expired for a period of three years. B| a knot of people Avere determined to secii the sums for themselves, aud the greaj monetary companies in England Avho hadent money upou the runs were forcing|them on, and they determined to force c| a renewal for a further period of ten yeaijdurmg the late session, and they did it, inpite of him aud his colleagues. The Govf or refused a dissolution, so that they hacfo poAver to prevent it. (Sir George Grefef erred, to the system of valuation, and f rejection in the Upper House of the sjem of pur chase on deferred payment.! This he regarded as a .robbery of tf people of NeAV Zealand. He did his besjo have the question referred to a new Parlment, and Avhen the Governor refused afissolution, he did his best to get the Aciisallowed. (Cheers.) For this he aa-us call! a despot. . (Laughter.) Who was thedespcf (Cheers.) The despots were rather tbpien who forced the laAv into exis.encA'hen there Avas no necessity for it. Wasp despotic in asking for twelve months' day? (Cries of—"no ' send the Govior back , to England," and loij cheers.) It had been his aim during hisPlitical hfe to cany the principles of Chrijpn justice into political life. If, as somlontenried, . material prosperity were thinly thing Avorthy of regard, where was h material prosperity of the Thames? They had £20,000,000 of debt, and thefids mono polised in a few hands, who A^dd qualify

THE EVENING STAR, MONDAY DEC EMBER 31, 187 1?:



|^VN THIS DAY AND DURING THE. KJ WEEK, AYS". WILL SHOW PIE„f S 10,000 PI^ ES FASHIONABLE DRESS GOODS AND J3ST PRINTS, REDUCED TO HALF PRICE IN ORDER TO_CI__AR. J. COSGRAVE & CO., QUEEN-STREET. NEVER Wave the Public had such a Choice of BED STEADS offered them as at the present timo T?_<si^-f5 our already well assorted Stock of Iron Bedsteads, and those of our own manu facture in Kattri. Rimu, Cedar, and Mottled KATJRI, Aye ask them to bear in MIND tbat we have Just Opened Up, ex ''Otaki,' TWO HUNDRED IRON BEDSTEADS of tho moat modern style, comprising French. Hat.p Tpster, Children's, and Stumps, also Cots, at Prices to suit all classes. Having purchased for Cash from THE Best Manufacturers, we can SELL A GOOD BE D3TE AD at a Very Low Price. . BEDDING, of every description, kept in otocx. HOUSES FURNISHED THROUGHOUT at a Short Notice. Our system is to make a large return ; to insure this We Sell tor Ready CASH • at a Sm.ll Profit, and DELIVER GOODS FREE to any part of the Town and Suburbs. __T Give your Furnishing Order to IS-lloway, Garlick Ss Oranwell, CABINETMAKERS, UPHOLSTERERS, AND CLOTHIERS, City Hall Arcade, QUEEN & LORNE-STREETS AUCKLAND. XT NION INSURANCE COMPANY \) OF NEW ZEALAND. CAPITAL -.. £2,000,000. AUCKLAND BRANCH: QUEEN-S T R E E T, Nest the Colonial Bank. FIRE DEPARTMENT. granted on Dwelling-houses, Stores. Shop 3, Buildings in which trade is carried on. Mere-.;-tndiae, and Goods of every description. MAEINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers, Merchandise of all kinds. Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at owest Current Rates. R. H. STEVENSON Manager. THE undersigned are now brin ing forward a Larere Parcel of GENE AL DRAPERY. HABERDASHERY, &C. bought at considerably les3 than usual prices, to which : they invite the attention of all requiring Good Value For Money. Corsets in great variety of quality and style, white and coloured, from 2/6 per pair Linen and Lace Goods, Cuffs, Collars, and Sets, in variety Ladies' Underclothinsr Umbrellas and Parachutes, Silk, Zanella, Alpacca, &c. Lot of Flowers at very low price, quite fresh StraAv Hats, Ribbons, Gloves, Sec • A Splendid Stock of Muslin, Lace, and Lenoe Curtains, Counterpanes, Quilts, Damask Table Cloths, Sheeting, Felt Squares •Carpets, Floorcloth, China Matting, Ticks, &c. Large-size Huckaback Towels at /6 each New Fancy Dress Materials, Japanese Silks, Coloured Lustres, Black Lustres, Embossed, Striped. and Check Muslins, Prints, &c. Brown Holland, from /6_- per yard Union, Fancy Jean, and Oxford Shirtings, very cheap A Line of Superior Quality Silk Mixed Fancy Shirting, at 2/3, usual price 3/6 per yard White and Grey Calico. Good Grey from /3 per yard Also, very large assortment of Gents' Shirts, White Longcloth, Union and All-wool Crimean, Fancy Silk Mixed Scotch TAViil, Fancy Jean, Oxford, Sec. Strong Tweed for Boys wear A Job Line of Stoat Mosgiel at below Factory prices Braces, Belts, Ties. Scarfs, Collars, Cotton and Merino Hosiery, Undershirts, &c. Leghorn, Tuscan, Straw, and Drill Hats, for Boys and Men, &a, &c Sec in he & allowed on all Cash Purchases of 20s. and upwards. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN, Junction Dbapery Warehouse, Upper Qceen'-strekt. auckland. £J HE A P TJ AT S! • REAP HATS I . CHEAP CLOTHING!! A Quantity of Men's and Boy's Drab and _ X £&¥>L IIATS wM be offered at *_r GREAT REDUCTION TO CLEAR. Also, a Ps.rcel of CLOTHING, comprising Men's and Boy's Tweed Suits, Trousers and \ ests, &c. These/Joodß are slightly m-!'.? 4, and will be ttold REALLY CHEAP. W. RATTBAY,



UNION INSURANCE COMPANY, AUCKLAND BRANCH. Reduced Pat_ for D-tached Dwelling Houses in the City, from 12s. upwards. In the Country from 13s. * R. H. STEVENSON, Manager. HORNTON SMITH. AND FIRTH'S PRICES CURRENT (WHOLESALE). Subject to alteration Avithout notice. Sacks. 100's. 50_. Crown Brand Flour, „ s. d. £ s. d. _ s. d. perton 17 0 0 17 10 0 18 0 0 T.S.&F. Canterbury Brand 16 0 0 16 10 0 17 0 0 Meal for Pig-feed .. 710 0 Sharps 7 10 0 Bran 6 10 0 .. .. Fowl Wheat .. .. Is. to 4s. 6d. per bushel. The above prices include sacks and bags; sacks and bags not returnable. Terms: Cash. December 21,1877. ,* -j^T O• T I C E. The BANKS will be CLOSED on Ist and 2nd January, IS7S. /MORNS, BUNIONS. AND WARTS. Mr. C. BASSTIAN begs to inform the inhabitants and visiters to Auckland that he may be consulted at the Anchor Hotel, near the Market. Advice Gratis to oth January. N.B,—JSo Cutting. •VTEW "YEAR'S PRESENTS AT THE _L_N CITY HALL FURNITURE ARCADE. PRESENTS, for Wives and Danghtcrs PRESENTS, for Sons and Husbands PRESENTS, Quaint and Curious PRESENTS, Useful PRESENTS, Ornamental PRESENTS, Scientific PRESENTS, Beatific PRESENTS, for all Pockets PRESENTS, for all Prices. holloway, gap-lick, se cranwell, City Hall Arcade.