SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

htp tt w a T7R f This Afternoon, 9.52 HIwI WATER-| T(| . monw Morning, 10.7 SUN SRT.—This Evening, 7.10. SUN RISE.— To-morrow Morning, 5.7 MOON'S AGE.—First Quarter, 23rd, 3.32 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

Rowcna, s.s., Sellara, from Taurangn. Southern Cross, s.s., Holmes, from Napier and G-isborxie Taranaki, s.s., Lloyd, from the South (Suez M-iil)- Gem, schooner, Watts, from Russell.

DEPARTURES.

Amaranth, schooner, for Wellington (from the Manukau) Kate McGregor, for Napier via Mercury-Bay. Vincent, cutter, for Friendly Islands.

IMPORTS.

Per s.s. Taranaki from thi South : 250 sheep, •i boxes, !(j cases, 10 bundles iron, 2 casks 1 bundle pipes, 2 trusses. Per Glenlora: 21 cases drapery.—T. McMastcr. Per Southern Cross, from Napier: 31G sheep.— A.S.I 1. Co., agents.

EXPORTS.

Per Kate McGregor, for Napier, via Mercury Bay :—60,000 shingles, 50,000 feet timber.—D. H. JMoKenzie, agent] Per Vincent, for Friendly Islands:—lo kegs beef, 1 cask do.. GO bates potatoes, 11 ba:.cs onions, 685 pieces of timber, 20 boxes soap.—Wm. Mc- Arthur and Co., agents.

The s.s. Taranald, 327 tons. Captain Andrew, arrive I at Onehunga wharf at 12 o'clock to-day. Jyfr Duucilin at 2 p.m. on Ihc 121 h. and arrived at Akafoa at 7.30 a.m. 13th.; left at 9,30 a.m. and arrived at Lyttelton at 1.30; left 5.30 p.m. on Sunday, and arrived at Wellington at 10"fo a.m. on fho Mth : left at 7\30 a.m. and ori the 16th arrived at'Picton at 1215 p.m. Left at l'3O p.m., and arrived at Nelson at 930 p.m. same day. Left at 5 p.m. on the 17th, and arrived at Taran aki at U. 30 a.m. on the 18th, and left at 5 p.m,, ar riving as above. EXDerienced'OTron;^ h^ad winds from Diincdin to Lyt telton, thence to Wellington variable, Wellington hence, northerly weather. Passengers: Saloon—Misses Andrew, Lodge, Milton, Mcsdamos Buttle, Benzoni 2 children, Howol!, Ringborne. Messrs. Buttle, Benzoni, Gedde.-i, Trewith, Jones, Mothe'ws, Sampson, Russsll. Knubley, Kin?, Bennett, and-9 in steer age. We are indebted to Mr. C. J. Edmiston for report and files. ■Tho brig Transport has hauled alongside the wharf to discharge her cargo. Captain Schulxc has been appointed to the command of -the new schooner Vallele. lie will take her down to Samoa at once. The discharge of the sugar schoonor Pioneer has be«n delayed by the wet weather. The brigantine Helena is loading for Tonga. She will sail shortly. A sight entry for the Glencoc was passed to-day. The s.s. Southern Cross leaves this afternoon, for Napier and Gisborne. A cablegram states that on the arrival of the ship Wolverine at Sydney the yellow flag was hoisted on board, but the nature of the disease liad not been ascertained at the time of despatching the message. The 3.5. Southern Cross arrived from Napier at -I. a.m. to-day. Captain Holmes reports strong northerly winds and heavy rain all the passage. Pasien-jjeiM: Saloon—Messrs. Thorns, Mahoney, Colbrook, Menzies, Plant, McKay, Captain Bsndall, Mrs McManus, Miss McSweeney. Steerage—Messrs. Brown and Millar. The barque Mendoz* got under weigh for Rangitoto Channel yesterday morning at high water. It worked down to abreast of the Wade where she brought up as the wind was light, and baffling. Got, under weigh this morning early, and sped away with a fine westerly wind. -The preliminary enquiry into the accident£to the Glcnlora will take place early next week before the Colleetoi- of Customs. Tbi brigantine Ethel arrived in Hobart Town ono day last-week. It is not unlikely she will load thiiv. for Auckland. Messra Back and Tonka of Wellincrton have just purchased th/j brig Jane of Hobart Town. The Suez snail arrived by the Taranaki to-day The s.s. Albion leaves Hobart Town to-day for New Zealand ports. The cutter Staffa is on the hard having a rub up before going down to the Islands to be sold. The cutter Vincent sailed this afternoon for the Friendly Islands, with a cargo of timberl soap, and general stores. The schooner Gem brings 50 tons coal from Russell, and schooner Ruby GO tons. The ship, Jessie Osborne, will have her cargo all out in a day or two.. She is then to take in manganese for ballast, and sail for Amherst Roads Maulmain, where she will load home with rice, etc. ■ The Southern Cross, mission vessel will leave on the Ist February for Duneftin, via Wellington and Lyttslton. About 25 of the training school boys will be sent down with her so as to give them a taste of life on the ocean wave. At Dnnedin the Cx-oss will be docked. The schooner Sissy is in the hard close to the silt basins : she is being re-caulked and her rudder made larger to give her more steering power. She is to leave for Portland Island as soon as the repairs, which are being carried out by Mr D. Gouk, are finished. Captain Bayldon desires us to state that if any persons wish to send parcels down to their friends on the island, lie will take them free of charge.

AUCKLAND CATTLE MARKET.

MR..AT.FRKD BUCKXAXD'S WEEKLY REPORT. —At. Rcnriiera, on Thursday, dairy cows near calving were in less than usual numbers, and at late values. Excepting a few lots of weaned calves and dry cows, no store cattle offered; those, consequent on the wet -weather, jvere in better inquiry than last week. J'at cattle in less than usual numbers; 117 head penned. Prices advanced about 2/ per lOOlbs. Sheep were also in less than usual numbers, and in better inquiry; fat wethers 2/ per head better worth. Lambs in usual supply, and at late values; Prices given were: Dairy cows, £7 to £3 5/: dry cows fit 7/6: weaned calves, 35/ to 10/; fat a< (tin, 25/ to 30/ per lOOlbs.; store ewes, 0/ to 9/; fat wethers, 16/ to 17/; fat ewes, 9/ to 13/ each, o- 'i-} to /2J por Ib.; good lambs, 8/ to 15/ each. Mf.SSKs' HITNTEI! AXI) NOLAN'S WwSKLTC REPORT.—Dullness has characterised the mar ket We-quote hacks from £8 to £13; light draught, from .-fill to £26 10s each. Cattlo : At Newmarket on Tuesday, the demand was spirited. We quote dairy cows at£7 to £10 2s Gd ; backward springers, £0 10s to£S-2a6d: yearlings, from &'A to £3 7s fid: weaned calves, from 30s to 3!)s; baef, from 27s to 30s per lOOlbs. Sheep: There was a good muster at Newmarket on Tuesday. The demand was steady, and there was no material alteration in values. Lambs were plentiful, and sold at from 8s to 14s each. Pigs: But few yarded; demand slack.

jVFr Greenwood, of the market, had a very large supply of poultry to-day, and the demand was equal." The following average prices wore obtained:—fowls (good), 2s to 3? 3d ; small do., Is to 2s 3d : chicken, Is to Is 9d; dv ks. Is 3d to 2a i Ocl: turkeys, 33 6d; pigeons, lid: potatoes (pig), 2-s: good do., 3s 9d; cheese, 7d; and sun dry goods at fair prices. ■ Mr. JR.. Arthur's general sale was well attended to-day. Potatoes fetched 3s to 4s 3d: onions. Id: annica 3d: pears. 21d to 3d; plums, 6d; cheese, ■Id to 7d; Provincial bacon, 5d to 8d; sugar, iid to 3d, bran, 6s 3d per bag. The furniture sale was proceeding. , ■, . c Mv Keb: Sibbin's weekly sale was but thinly attended, and the business done was limited. Maize sold at 4/9: potatoes. £1/10/; cheese, 7d ; tea in boxes, 25/; sugar, old; other goods at pro portionate prices. _ , i'-l'y .. .j ---■ Messrs. E. and 11. Isaacs, sold to-day the ?tween deck fittings of the Jessie Osborne. The sale was fairly attended, and the usual prices obtained. . Messrs. B. Tonks and Co. sold the gear and snrnlus sails of the Hertha, which realised £125. M'S-srs M. Jones & Co's weekly sale was nu>nerously attended. The fowls sold well, and thJ produce and saddlery fetched fair prices. The shingles were held over. • Mes-srs Cochrano and Son held their usual Fri day sale with fair results. A walnut drawing room suite, nearly new, brought £29. The yacht Ripple was withdrawn,

BIRTH.

HOLLOWAY.—On the 19th instant, at Great North Road, Mrs. J. Holloway of a eon.

MARRIAGE.

McDONALD—HILL.—On Monday, Jannarj la, at the residence of the bride's father. WiveW combe Farm, Ruapukc, Aotea, by the Rev. Q. H. Schnackenberg, Charles Edward, youngest son of John McDonald, Esq., of Glencoc, Raglan, to Mary Ann Boucher, eldest daughter of T. B. Hill, Esq., and grand-daughter of the late P. L. Hill, Esq.. M.R.C.S., L.S.A., and E. Boucher. Esq., ot Wiveliscombe, Somerset shire—West of England and Duudec papers please copy.

DEATH.

BROWN.—On the 28th instant, at his residence, Avoca, Victoria, Mr. G. Brown, aged 59 years, father to Mrs. H. Shailcr, Auckland.

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

FRIDAY. JANUARY 19, 1877

tor the cavse that lacks assistance, For the wronjj that needs resistance, For the future in the distance, Anrl the tfood that we can do.

i SUBUiIBAX residents who imagine that the County Council of Eden will contentedly divest itself of all powers, delegating its functions and revenues to the Road Boards which have worked with such admirable results during the past years, are, we have been informed, likely to suifef disappoint ment. It is invariably hard to persuade any Corporation into a voluntary annihila tion of its own existence. Power, and place, and patronage are sweet ; and the position of one of the rulers and controllers of the wide domain stretching from the Whan to the Tamaki, and including the important suburbs of Ponsonby, Newton, and'Parnell, is not to be sneezed at. The revenues of the County of Eden, from ordinary sources, irrespective of endow ments, will be very little less than those of the city, and the office of- Councillor a dignity which after - generations of doting parents may teach their little children to hold in reverence as the object of a mighty and honourable ambition. Counties have not yet been invested in popular estimation with any venerable associations. There is a prevailing distrust of their intricate functions as the instru ments of taxation, and a vast majority of the ratepayers Avould prefer for the present to leave them severely alone, depending on the old and trusted form of local government existing in the Highway Boards. Three reasons are, we understand, mainly urged for giving the Counties Act full swing in Eden. Tt is said that the tolls on tha South Road which yield a very large revenue could not otherwise be collected, that road being outside the boundary of any Highway district; that the , maintenance of the slaughterhouse, collection of fees, and.erection of a new slaughterhouse must either be muddled or fall a golden prize to one district ; and finally, that the maintenance of main roads—prominently the North and South Roads —which have hither to been kept by the Provincial Government, requires that a general controlling body, represented by the County Council, should exercise an active supervision. None of. these objections appear insuperable. Whether the . permissive clauses of the Counties Act are brought into force or not, we should regard the abolition of the unpro fitable and antiquated nuisances which block the public highway, as a wise step and an occasion for public rejoicing, tt is notorious that the cost of collecting toll* is something like fifty per cent, on the gross proceeds, and the British subject is mulcted to that extent by a tax recovered in the most objectionable and annoying form. The toll-gates removed, the County subsidies and if need be a share of the licenses might be appropriated for the maintenance of main roads, and entrusted to the various highway boards for administration. Ample powers for carrying this into effect exist under the Counties and Public Works Act«. Or if it were deemed advisable to maintain the toll bars, there would still be no dilliculty in having them included in some highway district upon agreement iliat the proceeds should be applied to the maiutqnance of wain roads, Tha slaughterhouse manufnh

first revenue arising from it appropriated, in making up the return provided by clause SI of the Counties Act, for the erec-. tion of new and suitable buildings? j : Fof the maintenance of main roads precisely the' same course might be pursued ; .and. the various Acts, in anticipation of such/con tingencies, make the requisite provision. Whether there might not be ample revenue and sufficiently important duties at present to warrant the constitution of the County in its integrity, is open to debate. The incubus of the new institution would not be felt until the Council determined to rate, as ultimately it must, for the support of the necessary starl of officers and the performance of its manifold functions. But the ratepayers Instinctively feel that in bringing the Act into full operation, they are setting up a king who may prove a veritable oppressor, and whom they have no power to remove. The possibility of forming boroughs still oilers a loop-hole of escape, but as it is quite evident that with the suburbs withdrawn, the County of Eden, saddled with a costly staff and long .strotcheV of main road, would be bank rupt, it is more than possible that should the suburban representatives be instru mental in bringing the permissive clauses of the Act in force, the Governor might refuse any subsequent petition for with drawal, or that some alteration in the Counties Act next session would bar retreat. The position is peculiarly disturbing and perplexing to the suburban mind, and we are strongly of opinion that ; the members of the Eden Council would ibe consulting the wishesof their constituents arid pursuing the wisest policy, in passing a resolution under clause 11, hanging up the Act until they find an actual necessity for bringing it into active opera tion. Sub-section 3 of section 12, gives them the requisite power at any time. But if three months from the date of iirst meeting are allowed to slip by without such a resolution being carried, the Council Avill be committed to a course from which there is no retreat, however injurious f5 th&iutercsta of the ratepayers in the various ridings the practical working of the scheme may prove. Where a choice of such vital impor tance to every ratepayer within an area of seven or eight miles around the city is at issue, it is, we' maintain, the duty of the elected represen tatives to collect all the information bearing on the subject, collato it in a simple form, and place the alternative proposals definitely before the constitu encies. If the Council attempts, after the manner of higher deliberative bodies in New Zealand, to thrust a constitution on the people repugnant to their wishes, the result cannot be other than widespread dissatisfaction and agitation. In a large majority of the Southern Counties that have yet dealt with the subject, the per missive clauses of the Act have been taken advantage of to delegate the practical ad ministration of district affairs to the road boards, with enlarged revenues ; and in some districts where the Act has been brought into full operation, the most populous localities have formed boroughs. This may not be the most advantageous course —in ;-ome respects we believe it is not—but as ottering a Kcciirity against double taxation, and a definite local administration.it is the most natural resort, unlesii the members of the County Council show intelligibly that the other is the better way.

Thk Tk Akoh a block has a feiugulnr hjstory. It lias a history avliicH could scarcely find a parallel in any other country on the face of the gloijo. Tho, confusion which was inseparable from the old Maori system of land tenure, which was practically no system at all, lias been an endless source of complication, annoyance, expense, and bloodshed in the endeavour to deline inter tribal boundaries, and fix the titles. Tho Te Arolni block is a notable example. The investigation of proprietary claims to this block was commenced in the Land Court at Auckland some years ago, and resulted in the land being awarded to the Xgatihaua tribe of Waikato. The Ohinemuri natives no sooner became aware of this decision, than they challenged its justice, and stoutly demanded a rehearing, which was granted. Both sides engaged an array of forensic talent, big briefs were built up on the strength of the security which the land offered, and the old fable of the oyster and the shell, very nearly found a modern illustration. This time the Court admitted the Ohinemuri natives as co-proprietors of Te Aroha. The effect of this decision upon the minds of the Waikatoa was puzzling in the extreme. In their rough and ready way of reasoning, the two judgments were paradoxical; no amount of logic could reconcile the two contradictory "tikanga." They waited on Sir Donald- McLean and protested they desired to know whether his "mana" (jiower, or authority) was not sufficient to overrideand extinguish the simple "tikanga" of a mere " kaiwhakawa," or judge. The late Native Minister promised to inquire into the matter, and there it rested for some time. ■"But then a new claimant suddenly came on the scene in the person of the re nowned chief "Tamati Waka. This claim to Te Aroha was based on irrefragable grounds. Many years ago he headed a Ngapuhi war party who built a pa on the land, and exterminated the ancestors of the miserable remnant who now had the audacity to put forward a claim to the land. The pro cess of extermination was so effectual as to leave no room for doubt—Tamati Waka and his braves had simply eaten the original proprietors, and as a matter of course incorporated their proprietory rights. And the proofs were no less clear and undeniable ; there were the remains of the pa, and there were also the clean-picked bones of the original owners of Te Aroha, bleaching in the sun and rain. Tamati Waka, however, like a distinguished rahgatira, considered it beneath his

dignity to contest his claim, so long as the miserable and enslaved remnants of the defunct and devoured did not put on any airs, or endeavour to assert their " mtina " over the block. 13ut this does not exhaust the list of claimants. The Ngatiluuias of Tamahere also claimed through their ancestors, and, to cap the complications, Tawhiao declared that all the previous claimants wore usurpers, and that he himself was lord of the manor. Under these circumstances, the ingenuity of the Native Office shone out in all its brilliancy. After lengthy negotiations it was finally arranged that the Thames natives should receive £2000, Te Wheoro's party £SSO, and the Tamahere natives £1250. At the last meeting between the late Sir Donald 1 McLean and Tawhiao, it was hinted by the former that the sum of £500 would be forthcoming in. consideration of Tawhiao's relinquishing his claim, but that potentate did not appear to be at all anxious to come to terms. It may be mentioned here that at one stage of the affair two opposing parties of natives, numbering each nearly 400, and fully armed, were in occupation of the Te Aroha block, and that a collision was only prevented by the exertions of Mr Commissioner Kemp and others. Such is a brief outline of the history of the Te Aroha block. ' With regard to the latest phase of the complication, the block ading of the river by the hostile Ohinemuri and Te Aroha natives, it is not only the question of reserves that forms the ground of discontent. The Te Aroha natives are dissatisfied with their proportion of the pur chase money. Under a pernicious system of making advances upon blocks in the shape of goods, which is analagous to " truck," they—and others whose claims are questionable—received_ considerable quantities of blankets, frying pans,- and other domestic utensils, winch attracted their faucy at tha time. The deductions for these good? they now complain of as isxwb.ifcymfc, a very fouuwja pg^u^

among natives, who have not yet realized tha force of the old proverb " You cannot catiyour cake aid have it," irrespective coxirse, of the pice of the cake. We be lieve, however, that the temper of both parties will 00l down when they have harmlessly'wasied some powder, indulged in a few war-lances, and shouted them selves hoarse. We are probably not wide of the mark in believing that the question of reserves lie? at the root of the matter ; and why some thousands of acres should be considered necessary for about ft score of natives, is a mystery. We know that an opinion exists in some quar ters that the Maoris have been in stigated to make this demand by European speculators who hope to acquire the lands as soon as they shall have been formally handed over to the natives. We can only Irope that,if any such little scheme is on foot,it will be defeated. The object of granting reserves is to prevent the natives from becoming paupers, to give them a stake in the maintenance of peace, and a homo. No\v,either this score or SO of natives require the land or they do not. I the latter, there is no necessity to reserve them at all; if the former, then the reserves ought to be rendered inalienable, which can be done by inserting a provision to that effect in the grants. It is just within the bounds of possibility, however, that the natives have already received advances on the expected reserves, either in cash or " truck," and that they would object to such a provision in the grant as we have referred to, in which case the speculators might step in, and pounce upon the reserves, defeating jtho object of the grant. The Hikiitaia reserve was similarly sold to speculators, who cut it up into allotments and leased them to Europeans. It is to be regretted that tho finger of suspicion lias been pointed to Mr William Rowe, M.H.H., ill connection with the sudden outcrop of the little difficulty m connection with the Te Arolia block. Mr Inghaui Stephens, surveyor, states that i" Some time ago, when the first applica tion was made by Mr W. Kowe, for land in the same block which Mr Broonihall applies for, Mr Kowe told me distinctly that Mr Broonihall should never have that land ; that ho would oppose him in every way ; and if in no othor way, that a portion of the block had not been as yet assigned to the Government, and ho would take very good care that the natives did not sign the deed." There must be some mistake here. No one who lias seen the patriotism, the self-sacrificing devotion to the public weal, and tho utter indifference to private gain of William Howe, Esq., M.H.It., could ever harbour a suspicion that he has endeavoured to stir up mischief in order to throw obstacles in the way of Mr Broomhall. Mr Ingham Stephens' memory must, for once, have failed him. If Mr Howe desired more land, he had no need to resort to such extremities to obtain it. A man who has .sailed over the Piako Swamp in an open boat to spy out the land, and encountered dangers by ilood and field, is not likely to be reduced to such dire straits.

Now, wh'en a European war h, so tar as human foresight can judge, almost inevi table, <i few facts shewing the ability of Brftitm't'o hoiiQiirauly maintain her position will be rend with interest. Seventy years ago, when England astonished the world by her inexhaustible wealth and resources ; when she kept half the armies of Europe in her pay, and poured out gold like water, expending nt times ;i hundred millions sterling a year on war purposes, and raising six hundred millions as easily as any other nation would have raised fifty ; her population—that" of the whole British Isles in 1804— was under twelve millions ; her revenue £15,500,000. To-day,' the population exceeds thirty-six million* ; the revenue, with lighter taxation £78 000 000. Her imports liiive risen from £3(>',000,000 to £295,000,000, and export* from £51,000,000 to £390,000,000. Mean while, by careful finance, a steady reduction has been made upon the national debt, In 171"), the English national debt was only £36,000,000; in 1793; the American and other wars had raised it to £203,000,000. In 1815, when the Napoleonic Avars were brought to a final termination, the debt had attained its maximum, £902,000,000. Since then, the reduction lias proceeded steadily with some breaks, but averaging throughout two millions a year. In 1848, this debt was brought (ftwii to £820,000,000. In 1870, the Crimean forty millions had been liquidated and otlier extraordinary national obliga tions paid, and still a reduction of the debt to £500,003,000 was effected. From IS7O to 1875 the liquidation went on at the rate of five millions a year, and the debt stands under £775,000,000, or £127,000,000 less than it was when the dictator of European destinies yielded to the irresistable re sources of a nation which could flourish under so unprecedented a drain upon its wealth, and at the close still find money to cash with gold five millions sterling of worthless continental notes, pay, in 1813, Sweden for her alliance, .two millions Russia and Prussia each a million for tight ing their own battles, and keep 80,000 Prussian, and IG'O,OOO Russian troops in British pay. If anything could add to the marvel of this extraordinary effort, it is the fact that extravagance, incompetence, and blundering, were throughout the charac teristics of the home administration. While Nelson and Wellington wore covering with "lory the name of Britain, Chatham, Pitt, Spencer, Porcival, Lord Melville, the Duke of Portsmouth, and Lord Liverpool, were -wasting the siibstance of the nation at home. ■ The achievments of the naval and military heroes of those trying years will lend an undying hufitre to the records of British prowess, and it. will still be told cen turies hence how the British navy, com mencing in 1793 with only 498 ships of war, had in the eight years ending at the peace of Amiens, defeated the navies of France, Holland, Spain, and Denmark, capturing or destroyed 541 of the enemy's ships, and meanwhile increasing the number of British vessels to 767 ships. Nor were the subsequent exploits of that invincible squad, ron less memorable. Between the years 1802 and 1814 there were captured or destroyed 342 French ships of war, 127 Spanish, 64 Danish", 19 American, and 17 Russian, making a total of 569, 124 being vessels of the line and 148 frigates ; and the commerce of continental Europe was .shattered. A consideration of these facts justifies confidence in the power of Britain now, come what may, to uphold the national dignity and accomplish her aims. Many European countries, with severe military systems, could more readily place a large land force in the field, but none could sustain for anything like ail equal period the terrible drain on the national resources which is inseparable from war. The Crimean war, Listing but a very few years, and involving an expen diture that was a mere bagatelle in comparison with the enormous figures quoted above, crippled Russia to an extent which1 she has not yet recovered. But while we have thus every reason for assurance that nothing in the immediate future is likely to humiliate our pride in the foremost Empire of the world, yet we should be sorry to see British honour pledged and British blood &pilled to support the Turk in Europe.

Wo understand that Mr Broomhall has written to tho Waste Lands Board, definitely accepting the terms embodied in tho resolution passed at the last meeting of tho Board, under which 50,000 acres at To Aroha ore to bo suld to him. We trust that all obstacles to the spaedy sett^iaeut

It is-satisfactory-to learn that the head quarters of the "Native Department are likely to be permanently stationed in Auckland. The plan of fixing the head quarters at Wellington, was part and parcel of that policy -which aimed at centralizing everything on the earth, and in the waters under the earth at a place which may be the "geographical centre," of the colony, but is certainly neither the commercial centre, nor by any means the-'most'conve nient for the administration of native affairs. Tho great bulk of the Maori population is resident in the Auckland district, and there can be no doubt that Auckland is the only place from which native affairs can be efficiently managed.

Learning that some uncertainty still exists, through the positive statements of our contemporary.,, the "Herald, that the pound for pound subsidies to the Counties will not bo payable unless the Counties Act is brought into full operation and a rate struck, we to-day caused inquiry to be made from the Kesidcnt Minister, Mr. Whitaker. Y\ c have now his authoritative confirmation of our formerly expressed opinion that whore ever tho Counties Act is hung up, the £2 for £1 subsidy will still be payable on the basis of the rates collected by the road boards, and will ha divided by the Govern ment among the various highway districts in the suspended county.

There is good ground for hoping that there will be no further land disputes arising out of Government purchases be yond the plentiful crop already sown. And this for the best of all reasons — the £750,000 voted for the purchase of native lands in the North Island is so far ex hausted that only sufficient remains to advance the incomplete purchases to a satis factory stage. When the supply of money runs out, the land purchasing must perforce cease also, and with the separation of the Land Purchase Department, from the Native Office, there may be some prospect that the influence of the latter Avill be beniicially exercised, and that its operations will not be hampered by the suspicion which always attaches in the minds of the natives against mere land buyers.

Captain Higgins of the Lovett Peacoke, who was a passenger to San Francisco by the City of Sydney, before his departure, spoke in the highest terms of the courtesy and friendly aid he received from the mercantile classes -of Auckland. He also expressed a high opinion of our religious institutions.

The "Bay of Plenty Times" furnishes from a reliable source, information as to tho proposed reduction in, and re-distribution of the Armed Constabulary. The force is to be reduced from 700 to 350 of all ranks, and will be distributed over the country in four divisions, 80 at each of the following places :—Waikato, Taupo, Taranaki, and Opotiki, the balance of 30 being stationed at the depot in Wellington. The Tauranga station is to be abolished, and the officers and men transferred. Tarawerc and Opepe will be abandoned, and the force will be mainly concentrated in. districts adjacent to the King country. The "Times" recognise/? the fact that the removal of the force from Tauraiiga "will be felt in more ways than one," meaning probably that some classes of trade will temporarily suffer, but it finds consolation in the fact that the dismantling of the Monmouth Redoubt, and the disappearance of military protection will convince strangers visiting the district that it is perfectly safe for settlement. It is satisfactory to observe that the " Times" which has consistently raised its voice against the needless expenditure of (Jovern nieiit money in the district, is not actuated by selfish local interests,lint is able to regard tin- matter from a broad colonial stand point.

An amusing case was heard last evening before Air Barstow, in which Hyam Hart claimed the siuu uL-£ I L7tt-.6fL.of one James Fcnron, for a quantity of pears and lobsters, In tins, which plaiuliff alleged that he had delivered safe and'iTSound, but for which defendant objected 'to pay. Mrs Fenton answered the charge, and said that she was the real defendant, as her husband had nothing to do with the transaction. She kept a small store in Hobson-srreetJjj ami the plaintiff worried her into taking the things. She objected to pay, bccau&c.1 the ; pears were rotten, and the lobsters omitted an unsavoury and most offensive smell; they were unlit to eat, and her customers returned them upon her hands. Plaintiff teased her into taking them. Several of the tins were produced (opened), which Were passed round the Court for his Worship and others to smell. They wore evidently unfit for use. Plaintiff and de fendant commenced to abuse each other ; plaintiff declaring that they were not the lobsters he sold, hut stinking ones which Mrs Fenton had got elsewhere and brought forward for the purpose of deceiving the Court. This allegation the defendant as stoutly denied ; saying that if she had obeyed her husband she should not have dealt with plaintiff, who was known to have sold brass for gold. After a "treat deal of violent altercation, his Worship caused the storm to cease by giving judg ment for plaintiff for lls 3d., for the pears, but not for the lobsters; costs 17s.

The particulars of the case, Robbie v. Brqwnliill, heard in the Resident Magis trate's Court, occupied the Court several hours yesterday, and resulted in the pliiintiic' being nonsuited. The case arose out of a disagreement about work in a new house iv Nelson-street, under a contract. Edward Pearce, David Watson, and William F. Danks gave evidence of an experimental character; they being car penters. A good deal of fun was caused by trade-terms which word used by witnesses, such as " mouse-tight, " " hen-and-chicken mould," " dead-headed." "dido," and similar phrases.

Captain Daldy waited on the Hon. the Attorney-General yesterday, to request the aid of the Government in "the passing of a bill to enable the Harbour Board to raise a further loan for deepening the dock. Mr. Whitaker desired Captain Daldy to furnish particulars in writing.

Tho tangi for the death of Sir Donald McLean, took place at Napier yesterday, and was attended by 900 natives. A party of natives assembled in Clivc Square, danced a war dance, and then marched in military order to a paddock adjoining' the late resi dence of Sir Donald McLean. Volleys were tired by 120 men;'after which speeches were delivered, and songs of lament siuv, the women also crying aloud in the Maori style. The lion. Mr. Ormond then addres sed the natives, stating that he : shared in their sorrow, and recognised their testimony of regard for the deceased. Mr. Douglas McLean, son of the late Native Minister, thanked the chiefs and people, for their tribute to the memory of his father and the proceedings closed with a grand war dance, A deputation waited upon the Hon. the Attorney-General in reference to the pump ing operations in the Waio-Karaka dis trict.; The claims in this -/neighborhood have not been very prosperous of late, and there is every probability that for want of greater success they will have to suspend pumping, which would be a serious blow to mining; enterprise in the locality. The deputation desired that an arrangement might be come to by which the County Council or Boroixgh would have the power to assist the Waio-Karaka pumping opera tions, either by a contribution out of "old duty, or allowing them to have the water free. .Mr Whitaker referred to the arrange ment recently come to with the deputation from the County Council and Borough, but j said that if a memorial in favoxu' of assist- j ing tho Waio-Karaka claims came from I

The members of the Artillery Company were drilled lust evening under commanu of Captain Burns, with satisfactory results. A fish was caught in one of the Domain ponds a few days ago -A'hicli some of our local ichthyologists .supposed to M salmon. On being submitted to the examination Of a gentleman learned in the science lie was of opinion that it could not be a salmon as it was 44 inches in length, and was silver marked on the bell}'. Our local savans are much exercised over this momentous ques tion, and Professor Owen will probably be invited to solve the problem. The Union Bank of Australia with its usual enterprise (for the convenience of the WaikatoS people), opens a branch bank at Hamilton, for the transaction of business on Ist of February. No doubt this growing district his warranted this prudent step. To the Editor : Sir,—To decide an argu ment, you will oblige by ansAvering the fol lowing : " Whether it was a French or English General had chief command of the allied forces at the commencement of the Crimean War, or whether either held such command, and tho name of the holder."—- Yours, &c, A Reader of the Stae % [Lord Raglan in chief command of the English army, and Marshall St. Arnaud, the French General, succeeded by Canrobert, had sep arate iusttuctions and distinct commands, which was a frequent source of conflict of opinion, and more than once threatened a complete rupture of the alliance.—Ed. E.S.] WU is notified that the National Bankgof New Zealand has declared a dividend of 6 per cent for the half-year ending September. The paragraph published yesterday with reference.'to an alleged row outside the Wellington Hotel, is, we are informed, an exaggerated version of a very trivial circumstance. That in point of fact there was no row at all, beyond the appearance of a semi-intoxicated man surrounded by threo or four boys.

The sheep imported by the Glenlora were landed this morning, and sent up to Mr A. Auckland's yard. They are all in first-class condition. Three of the rams were left on board, as they have to be transhipped on to N apier.

Mr J. Graham, Relieving Officer for the province of Auckland, has kindly furnished us with a statement of the number of per sons in receipt of out-door relief during the month of December, 1876. The total num ber of adults was 2(JS; children 545. The latter includes the inmates of the various charitable institutions paid by Govern ment, as follows : —Orphan Home, 27 ; Mount St. Mary's Home, 25 ; Industrial Home, 11; placed out, 4. Total, 67.

The land which has caused the dispute at Alexandra was sold by Mrs Morgan to a Mr Smith, of Dimedin for £(>OO cash. He sent his Superintendent, Mr Falconer, to break up the land, and lay it down in grass. Tenders were invited for the work, and a surveyor was got, to mark off the boun daries. While so engaged, Tawhiao's Ministers came down and ordered the sur vey to be stopped, as that monarch had determined that no pakelia should occupy the land. To Ngakau also intimated his intention of going to Cambridge to stop the natives from submitting their claims to the Land Court. With regard to the telegram Lin our issue of yesterday, stating that the [Kinjjites had preferred a claim to all the [lands on the west side of the Waikato river, I alleging tlint the late Sir Donald McLean had I promised to give them those lands, wetii-oin a position to say that no such promise was ever made. Sonic of the Ngatihaxta adherents of Tawhiao manifested a disposi tion to return to the Waikato, and asked that portions of the confiscated territory might be given to them as places of resi dence. Sir Donald McLean then offered to set aside for the purpose, blocks of land "on the west side of the Waikato rivor, on condition that the native occupants became amenable to the law. This arrangement was known to the settlers at the time, and excited considerable dissatisfaction amongst them, especially at Harapipi, where a numerously signed memorial was got up, , i protesting against the location of returned ; rebels in close proximity to European settle ■ i merits. So far, we believe, only a very few 'natives have availed themselves of the con cession offered.

Louis Pierre Duglcaux, baker, of Gis bome, was acquitted by the jury yesterday at the Supreme Court, before Mr Justice Gillies, on a charge of uttering a forged, promissory note, and discharged. The case occupied the whole day.

Many persons Avhen asked for subscrip tions to the Regatta, urge as an excuse for not giving anything that they cannot see tlio races, in consequence of their being sailed principally outside the harbour. It will bo observed from the courses in this year's programme that this grievance has been cured. Nearly all the sailing races will be visible from beginning to end by the residents of the suburbs, as they take place, Avith few exceptions, betAvcen Kauri Point, and Drunken Bay.

An accident happened to a horse and df&y at the upper end of Symonds-.strcet, to-day. While passing St. Sepulchre's Church one of the Avheels stuck fast in a bog, and all eiforts of the driver to disengage the cart from the difficulty proved unavailing. At this critical juncture it- Ayas suggested to unload the cart, and on this being-clone, the horse made a desperate and successful effort to free himself. The goods Avere con veyed back to the vehicle, which then pro ceeded on its Avav. ' •

The manager of the Old Men's Refuge desires through our columns to thank Mr Dormvell for a donation of 23 lbs. of saus ages for the inmates; also, to M'r Sinclair for 10 lbs. of bacon for the Old Women's Home.

Dr. Pollen is likely to remain about a week longer on the East Coast, where he is engaged in the settlement of native questions. ■ Ho Avill visit Katikati.:

MpAvw% Br°°kfield, barrister and solicitor, son of Mr F. M. I. Brookficid, Grown Prosecu tor, is practising his profession at Tauranga.

Thirty-one fallow deer have been shipped for Auckland by Mr T. Russell in the Thurland Castle, which left Gravesend on the 3rd Novem ber.

A-vocal and musical entertainment was aiven last evcniDg in the Newmarket Hall, in celebra tion of the second anniversary of the Victoria Lodge of Good Templars. The interior of the hall Was decorated with flowers, evergreens and temperance mottoes, and all arranged with much■ tasto. .Mr Jenkins occupied the chair and delivered- the opening speech in favour of the cause. The songs of the evening were Mary Blame, by Mr Buchanan • " Whon thp SwaUows," by Mrs Bettany : » The Klgrim of Love,", by Mr Salt; "The folly of AvEgfor the doing of good work," by Mr Dorrineton ■ Lefore I cease to love," by Mr Butschkow •' "Jessies Bream," by Mrs Cottingham, and others by Buchanan, Messrs. A. Hemus I\eal, and others. The Temperance Band en livened the proceedings by several selections of music, and all went "merry as a marriage bell."

We have received from the publisher the Auckland Journal of Commerce published for the out-going mail via San Francisco. The lead ing articles contain a careful summary pt the^ position of the • negociations be tween the New Zealand and New South Wales Governments, in respect to the proposed modifications m the San Francisco Mail Service In the comments on the comparative returns of monthly, quarterly, and yearly customs dues ana imports and exports, the increase of cus toms duties for the month of December last is attributed to the large consumption of certain classes of goods during the Christmas festivities and the decrease on the last quarter's imports for me year to the excessive stocks in importers' hands at the beginning of that period. The dim- Svte impoit? in.™ yearly return is ascribed to the falling off m the importation of Govern nient material and the developement of local industries. The doorcase under the head of exports is accounted for by the large storks nf wool and flax held for advance in the home market. The ■ improvement in the ouality of wool and the extreme suitability of the \uok? land climate for the- «rowth or lonewiol nnd

The children of St. Mary's Episcopal Sunday School, and tho orphans of St. Stephen's Orphan Home, assembled yesterday morning in St. Mary's church, when a short service was per formed by Vcn. Archdeacon Maunsell. At its close, the children, about 100, went to Ellerslie gardens, where they enjoyed themselves. The boys were under the charge of Mr. John Kiss^ line, and the girls, in the absence of Mr. Dy-iz^-j under tho care of Mr. Robertson. . c^fc— Wo notice that divine service will be~E€ia on Sunday next at half-past two in the afternoon, in Bercsford-strcet church, especially for German residents in Auckland. Services to be conducted by the Rev. tho Chaplain of H I.M. ship Hertha. "The " Advertiser" states that Mr R. J. O'Sulli van, Inspector of Public Schools, is at present on a visit to the Thames to conduct the teacher's examination. There are 21 candidates, is of whom are girls. To the Editor: Sir,— Why dont some of our leading men in Onehunga bestir themselves and get up a regatta 1 We have lodges and societies of various kinds, a Municipality has been petitioned for, and a public hall is announced as about to be built. All these are very good in their way, but wo have notlnng bearing directly on our harbour—our coasters and small craft,' our sailors and boatmen. v\ c don t have even a rowing club. ■ The regatta only wants some one to set the ball a rolling. I am sure that the shop keepers andtradesmen.employers and employed," publicans and sinners, would help ua by sub scribing towards tho prize list. \ ears ago One- - hunga had regattas, and good ones too, consider ins the size of the place. Now Mr Editorpleaße insert this letter, and add something of your own iust to wake them up, and I hope the result will be that all and sundry can read in a month or two in the Stak, a true, full, and particular account of a successful " Onehunga Regatta."—' Yours, Manukau. The first meeting of the Grand Lodge of Fre Templars was held laßt evening in Cook-street. The various reports were read and adopted. Bro Cox, P.G.W.C.T., informed the.lodge tha he had received authority from the K.W.G.! Lodge of Kngland to institute this Grand Lodge in New Zealand. Bro. Donald then moved, Bro Cox seconded, and it was carried, "That the ritual, rules, and titles of the English Order, be a'loptcd in their entirety." Bro. Warbnrton stated that in future they would be under the jurisdiction of the R.W.G-. Lodge of England. 'The evening sitting commenced at half-past seven o'clock, when the following officers were elected and duly installed :— G.W .0. President, Bro. G. Warburton; G.W. Councillor. Bro. Jos.- Lee- G.W.V. President, Bro. E. Lightfoot; GW. Secretary, Bro. James Cox: G-W.F. Secretary, Bro. W. J. F. Donald; G.W. Trea purer, Bro. A. Edgar; G.W . Chaplain, Sister* Cox; G.W. Marshal, Bro. T. MoConnell; G.W. Sentinel, Bro. McEvoy; G.W. Guard, Bro. Whiteman : G.W.It.H. Supporter, Sister Light foot: G.W.L.H. Supporter, Sister McEvoy; G.W.D. Marshal, Sister Cottingham; G.W.A, Secretary, Bro. H. Clayton; G.W. Messenger" Bro. Sccats; P.G.W.C. President, Bro. J. X. Hunt. Bro. Warburton then delivered an interesting address on the principles and. progress of Free Templary. in the coutso of which he was frequently applauded. Votes of thanks were given, and the Lodge was closed until the 11th inst.

Accident at Seccombe's Brewery.

Collapse of the Well. ... The Pumping Machinery Bittilfc:

An accident occurred last even ing, at Sec combe's Brewery, Kyber Pass Jtoad. It seems that shortly after .six o'clock, one of the carters named McCnnhy was occupied ill the stables, when lie heard a tremendous crasli, which seemed to have been, caused by something giving way about the premises. There were no oilier persons in the brewery at the time, the employees having gone home some time before. MoCarmy left the stables, and ran over in the direction of the roar of the brewery to sec what had-oti&J' sioned the noise. On reaching the spot where the pumping machinery is worked, a singular spectacle met his gaae. The large- , well, from which the city water; supply lias, for some time, been obtained, - had totally collapsed, carrying with it the machinery, pumping gear, and all the other requisites for raising the water. Wi The beams from the adjoining sheds had ;; been forced clear away, and had fallen with 9 the machinery. The debris had fallen into, the centre of the well, filling it up com., pletoly. McCarmy immediately proceeded^ to inform the workmen of the accident, but nothing could be done until this morning, when assistance was obtained and the work of repairing the damage commenced. A large amount of the machinery and I pumping gear has been recovered from the I ruins during to-day, but the well will not be . cleared out for some time. The hole is •about 20 ; feet wide at the top, and fiye feet at the bottom, while the depth iS | fully 15 feet. Several heavy beams have been placed across, to assist the men iv their work. The total damage is unknown, . but is estimated to be about £1000. The cause of the accident has not yet been discovered, but probably it was owing to the heavy rains of the last few days, cans ing the brickwork to give way. It was extremely fortunate that the accident did not take place an hour earlier, when the hands w«re at work, or we might have had v to chronicle the loss of several lives. AH' possible speed will be used in clearing the well, and getting the pumps iifto working condition, but this will not, it is expected, be accomplished under eight of nine days.

Wrecks of the Cutter Glance.

Harrow Escape of tho Captain and. Crow.

The cutter Glance, belonging to Captain Allen and Mr William Kelly, "of Tauranga, was totally wrecked off Tairua- ou the .11th-,. in,st. Captain Allen arrived in town'this ; morning, and reported his loss to the Col lector of Customs. He has supplied vs Avith trie following particulars of. the disaster :—The cutter Glance, in charge of Captain Joseph Allen, left Tamanga } bound for Tairua on tbe lGth instant On the 11th, at 9 a,m., arrived in the passage between the Shoe island and the entrance to Tairua; ana hove to, waiting for the tide. At mid-day the wind, which"was from E.S.E.,fell light* and the cutter missed stays badly. Fiiuling all his eilbrts to put her about fruitless, the captain let go his anchor. While paying, out chain, the cutter's stern-struck on a rock close to the Shoe, and bumped twice hard, there being a nasty sea.on. She stuck fast; for a few minutes, and then came oil". Sail was made for Tairua,-W the vessel Avas making water sotfas* that it soon became evident she would go down. At half-past twelve the dingy W»s put over the side, and Captain Allen and the one hand on board besides, were prepar ing to collect a few tilings, when the vessel gave a lurch and they just had time to jump into the boat when she went dpwa in 13 fathoms of water. The dingy was towed into Tairua, and as the cutte* G.ij;.isy Queen was on the point of leaving for Auckland, the two cast? aways came on by her. The Glance was equally shared'by Captain - Allen and j Mr. Kelly. Captain Allen's half was not :> j insured.; We are unable to say whether Mr. Kelly's was or not. There is nochioiee of the cutter being raised. The captain 8 papers and clothes went clown with the ■; vessel. Tne cargo on board consisted Q? I 10 casks of beer, shipped by Messrs. , i Wrigley and Son, Springwcll Brewciy, ana one keg butter, shipped by Mr. Bedell. The* Glance was an old vessel. She vaß; i bu-lt by Mr. Howie, of Wangarei, nearly twenty years ago, and was at one time cob* I sidered one of the crack cutters of : AucKj land, having won several races in."** ] Kegatta and at other times. She AvaS 1» , tons register, and was valued at £400. -An. enquiry before the Collector of Customs Avill be held in a day or two. Captain All^ 1 has been master of vessels hailing n*J»r.| Auckland for fifteen years, and this is »a I fli-st accident.

INQUEST ON DR. HERBERT.

Asr inquest was held at the Tuakatl HOJWt before R. Proud* J.P., and a respectable jutfs 1 13, Mr Arthur Brown foreman, on the ]*$£$? thejato Pr, Herbert, who died suddfW^ . Tnakau on Tuesday morning. Several "Witness^* i jvere examined, w&q proved that deeaaWtwm I

THE EVENING STXB, FRIDAY, JANUARY 1?, 1877.



-ffllUßflllUßEt FUBISTITUBE ! Ladies a'ld Gcn'lciheu about to Famish are respect fully requested to inspect the Large Stock of. J)RA WING - ROOM, DINING/- -ROOM: - BEDROOM, AKB GENERAL i" I?} HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE; In our New and Spacious Showrooms. T. & IL~COOKE S 67: QUSENSTBEET. Adjoining Bank of New Zealand: ■r| .Q N T IN U A T lON . OK hri W CLEARING-OUT SALE. ~m GREAT REDUCTIONS IN ALL KINDS OF CLOTHING i SPECIAL LINES for TO-MORROW :— Own Make Trousers and Vests, 37/6 —Reduced to 21/. Drab Shell Hats, 16/6—Reduced to 6/. ~ Gents' Coloured Soarfs, 3/., 4s/.—Reduced to /10, W. RATTRAY, OUTFITTBH AND C.LQTHIEB,



OTIC E DRAPERY GOODS, JNEW AND CHEAP!! The uudcrsigned have Purchased at Auction a LARGE LOT of NEW DRAPERY GOODS, just landed ex City of Auckland, tho whole of -which having been bought at much under the usual Warehouse Kates, they can afford to oiror to then* Customers at Very Low Prices. The Parcel comprises :— Grey Calico, various qualities, from /3VI yard Strong White Calico at /I 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.'1 & 11/1 Alhambra Quilts, good qualities, 3/11 Bough Drown Holland, from /C yard Halfdressod ditto, superior quality, very cheap at /10^ and 1/ Black Lustre, and suporior quality Black Bril liantine Lustres New Prints, good patterns, at /If, lb., and /6, very cheap Harvard Shirting, good quality, /7} yard Fine Irish Linen, lot of Remnants, a bargain, from 1/1 yard Gents' Br. Cotton Half-hose do. £( merino feet Grey and Fancy Striped Me: ■___<_ Half-hose, and other goods too numeroiu to mention. , All Purchasersof Drapery and Clothing should j inspect our Stock, and prove that although not | sej.lixg Off, we are giving l'uu value FOB money. _S" One Shilling in the £ returned on all pur chases of 20s. and upwards. RUSH BROOK & BRIDGMAN, Upper Queen-street, Auckland. THE NATIONAL BANK OF NEW ZEALAND (LIMITED). Incorporate^ . uder the Companies Acts 1862 and 1567, and the New Zealand Act 1., 1873. Notice is hereby given that an Interim Divi dend for the half-year ending 30th September, ;1876, at the rate of six (6) par cent, per annum, jhas been declared by the directors, and will be paid to the shareholders (whose names appear at this date on the register kept in the colony) on and after the 29th instant. The Transfer Books will bo closed from this date until 29th instant. THOS. BUCHANAN, Acting Inspector. Wellington, 13th January, 1377.



"TTNION BANK OF AUSTRALIA. An AGENCY of the BANK will be OPENED at HAMILTON, Waikato, on Ist FEBRUARY, in the premises at present occupied by the National Bank of New Zealand. (Signed) JOSEPH PALMER, \ Chief Officer for N.Z.



Scamps arc selling counterfeits of that most wholesale of medicinal stimulants, Udolpho WOLFF.'S SCHIRDAJVI AROMATIC SCHNAPPS, famous alike for its hoaltlwgiving properties and agreeable flavour. The knaves who are carry ing on this wicked traffic put their liery decoot ion.s into empty bottles of the real article, and inmost instances imitate the genuine labels, lusist upon having the real Schnapps.