SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HTfrTT TV '• "ITj*H '' -1 -^s Afternoon, 5.26 ~^ "~ ~\ To-morrow Morning, 5.59 b;;\ sJT.-ThisTSrening, 7.17. feU A ,\-~,-'.. —To-jnorrow ?»lornin %, 5. -.iuO^i'o AGE.—Xew Moon, 15th, 1.7 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

._. . DEPARTURES. ij iir(-, hrisraniine, McKenzie, for Lyttolton, via Morcury Bay. 2lxi-:Uless, brigadtinc, MoEZay, for Kaipai-a.

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

■•or ijie bonlh—'Wellington, s.s., Sunday, 9 a.m. For i::i!iioa-Helena, brigautino, early. For London—City of Auckland, 13th; Glenlora, barque, early For .San irancisco—City of Sydney, s.s., 16th inst (English Mail) For Sydney (iTom Onehunga)—s.s. Kotorua, lbih Jamiaxy For Tanran.ra—Rowena, 5.8., Monday next. I<or Coromandel—Argyle, s.s., Mondays and __ Fridays For \Van,w.roi—Argyle, overy Tuesday (•;:■:■ hie Xorth—lona, s.s., eTory Monday J: or Dune-din—Southern Cross, niission vessel, early. For Adelaide—Cabarfeidh, barque, early.

VESSELS EXPECTED.

--„„., il.M.a. Pearl, from Sydney, early. I.oLorua, s.s., from Wellington, early. December Star oc the South, s.s., from Fiji, early. uvv:-i;i;K! Castle, ship, from London, early. Loch Urr, barque, W.Q.K.L., from London ; SiuJsciSCiii September . iiCihi Mary, barque, jrorn Hobart Town : sailed Scsrd Deo. gienlora, barque, from London, sailed Oct. Sth. lionoer, barque, from Mauritius; sailod 12th November. Mirzapare. barque, from Melbourne Gioiidoe. barque, from Tasmania, early. .i^'Jp '-• ::'"iniiHefr, barciuo. from Pori. 1-iric, early. Rebeccah Jane, brig, from Melbourne, early J. I'.vti -port, brig, from Sydney ; sailed O:nait? v brigantino, from Chatham Islands, early Augusta, brigantine, from Levuka, early. °''~'!'- -'■-■ schooner, from the Islands, early Judith, schooner, from the Islands, early ■^etisia.Bciiooner, from Mia Islands, early Ixrieaibi'da, schooner, from Suvnvrrow Island, early.

NEW STEAMER FOR RIVERHEAD.

Tno. new stcamor lor which ten dors v.va bum." invitod by advertisement, signed Messrs Oastiy auu Son, is intended for the Jiiverhead trade, and when finished will take the place of the Gemini and Liiy. Sho is to bo an iron boat, with the following dimensions: Slf fc. keel; 12ft. beam: and 7ft. depth of hold.. She ia to be furnished with oscillating engines of CO horse power (nominal). When loaded, she must not draw mora than 2Jft. water. She will carry no cargo, but mails and passengers only. Tenders wilt be received up to Saturday, the 2oth inst., and the successful tenderer must be prepared to si-art work on the job at daybreak on Monday

morning1.

The brigantino Flirt sailed for Mercury Bay last night. Tho barque Mendoza has entered out for Chili and is to sail on Monday. The brig-anrinc Helena is to sail again for Samoa arid Tonga in a few days time. The schooner Josephine has cleared at the Customs for Norfolk Island and New Caledonia. Saa takes a mixed earso consisting of timber and general soods. Passengers : Mrs Jackson and turae children, Mrs Saunders, aiad native girl, J. Dim oh a., The iron barque Loch Urr is to be the next vesssl loaded for London by the New Zealand Shipping Co. She is expected in port immedi ately. Tiio ITa we a'which left Onehunga on Tuesday arrived at Nelson yesterday. She Lad very bad weather on the voyage. Tiicj p.:;. Annie Mill Jank.staricd or. an excursion to the Hat Springs at half-past nine o'clock tljis rooming. A great number of p.is^cn.jera went cir.yji by hey. n, lavse proportion of. whom were inxito-I by I\!r Robert Graham, the enterprising propviyloi* of trie Waiwera Hotel apd Springs. The boat is expected back this evening. Tho b.-iirquo Nouyeau Nbmade cleared out to-day in ballast for Maiden Island, wHere she i--. to load guano for Hamburgh. She will sail to-morrow or Monday. The schooner Opotiki cleared to-day for Slercury Bay, with 10 cases biscuits find 10 tons coal.. Tii3 schooner Elsinorc brings 50 tons coal from Ilnssell. The schooner Transit leaves for Wellington to-day in ballast. The schooners Atlanta (with produce) and the Belle .Brandon (in ballast) left Lyttelton for tbiss port yesterday.

COMMERCIAL.

Messrs. Cochrane and Son held their weekly sale of furniture to-day, which, was well at tended, and realized good prices. The 30 Union Bjach Gold Mmmg1 shares, in the estate of vV. V. phapman sold for £2178 each. Tho 250 in the Black Koe£ were withdrawn.

Mr. Sibbin's general weekly sale of groceries and provisions was well attended. A quantity of damaged flour was sold at .-§lO 11s to £10 15s, cheese, (fair quality) at 7d, maize, 5/3, and oats

Messrs Jones and Co. of the Central Sale Rooms held a well-attended sale of groceries and po.ulfcry to-clay. The prioas were up to the mark, andrh.3 poultry, a largo assortment, sold well. Mr. Grtonrroo'l reports his usual Friday's sale RsfolJDv/3:— Poultry still vsry scarce, and t)ie desiaiid.ftlong vrny ahead of the supply; turkeys and geesd nono entered; fowls (good), 2/ to 3/3 each: fowls .'small), 1/6 to 2/; Chicks, /0 to 1/9; Dacfcs,.l# So 2/3; Rabbits, 1/; Piga (young), 10/; Potatoes, -1/ c-rt.; other goods at fair prices. Mr. R. Aith-or reports potatoes (^cod), 4/ to i/G ; inferior, 2/ to 2/3; Auckland onions, /I to /1\ ; filtio apples, /o| to /3|; ditto pears, /2J: choose, /5j- to II ; Canterbury bacon, /10J; hams, ill to 1/; bcxea tea, 25/; hall-chests, 22/. *

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

I-IAIL-3 WILL CLOSE AS UNDER:— For Thames, this day at 6.30 p.m., and to-morro'sv p,t 11 a.m. For Coromandel, on Monday nest at 11.30 a.m. For Tairua,, per Maud to-morrow fit 11 a.m. For V/aiv/era, Mahur&ngi, Matakana, Man gawai, etc., psr Annie Milbank, to-morrow, «t 10 a.m. For Taranaki and .Southern Provinces, per U rc]!iiH;ton, tomorrow, at 4.20 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 3.20 p.m. Lat3 letters vrill be received till 1.30 p.m. For w-hitiongft, Tanranpai and Opotiki, per Row^na, oil Monday next, at 1 p.m. For RuoieiJ, \Vau£-aroa, and Mongonui, per Jc.n^., on Monday next, at i p.m. For- Adelaide,1' r>er Cabarxeiclh, to-morrow, S3 11 a.m. ■"■■' '-' P«r City of SydheiJ}' on Tuesday, 18th instant, as follows .—/ For Kandavu, Sandwich Islands, United States of Aniericn, Canada, British Columbia, (J jutyjsl and Sonih America, and; British and Foreign WtJSt Indies, at t p.m. i For-United Kingdom and Coatinont of Eusopo;-a1?-.tp.Tn. For fi^or.ey "ders, registered letters, and noT/spa^Tn, at 3 p.m: •Sjata lattcra-bearing an extra fee of 6d in addiiron. to tho postaare, will be received by the lilailAgadt oniboarcl up to time of sailing. ■ j; .'■ ■•.■ S»;B. BIBS, Chief Postmaster.

BIRTH.

BUCHANAN.—On the 7th January, at Rose bank, Whan, Mrs. John Buchanan of a son (still-born).

DEATHS.

HUNT.—On the 10th instant, at the residence of her father-in-law, Hobson-street, opposite the Governor Brown Hotel, Mary, the beloved wife of Mr. Isaac Hunt. The funeral will leave on Saturday after noon, at 3 o'clock. Friends will please accept this invitation.

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

FRIDAY, JANUARY 12, 1877

Fcr th<! o-a.sk that Inckn assistance Yor Vhe vtronfj tlir.t needs resistance, 1-or Uis-i'ulure in the disjunct:, Anil the youd ll'.nt we can do.

A VAKIETY of proposals, having as their object tlio transformation of boys and girls into exemplary little nien and women, have, in all ages, boon pressed upon the attention of parents and the instructors of youth. "Whether from the innate perversity of the ■juvenile disposition or that universal ten dency of matured middle age-to regard ■with" great leniency, not to Bay partiality, juvenile peccadilloes and thought]esness, the world cannot bo congratulated upon having modified to any great extent the Inborn penchant of its little folk for lollies, marbles and other juvenile luxuries, any more than upon having created hereditary love of arithmetic rather than peg-tops and dolls, or for the gloom and discipline of the school-room before play in the sunshine. The system of train ing is not yet patented under which— given a boy of stipulated age, tho tune for subjecting' him to the process, and a man of indicated proclivities will be the guaranteed product. A very fair share of success does certainly attend particular processes for the production of scape-graces , and neer do-wells, ■■■ but the reverse proposition does not apply, and the manufacture of good, prudent, and self-denying inch, remains, ' more or less, among the undiscovered arts. The experience with the training of youth has been very much tho same as with other things mundane —it is mnoh easier to reduce to the original type than to raise the standard to an ideal one. A good deal may, however, be dono in that direction, and to one most important branch of juvenile training—the inculcation of piudent and economical habits—a little brochure, which we have received by post from Dunedin, applies itself. ;A few- months ago a pamphlet was': issued. sketching a scheme "'"for the formation. of ''an Association 'for promoting the introduction of the study of economics as a branch of ordinary education into the school." The meaning,pcrhaps,is .lost in these high-sound ing phrases. But what actually ia intended by the " study of economics" is pimply that the cultivation of provident habits shall be added to the •jthreq li.'s and more preten tious sciences comprised, in the common school curriculum, and that this shall be ' 'accomplished through the medium of' Penny Banks attached to all schools! The pro moters, who are Dunedin gentlemen of position, have adopted as their model the Belgium and French systems^ which have worked with remarkable success, and contributed a good deal towards tho creation of thrifty habits. With the pitiful evidence of improvidence everywhere displayed in poverty and wretchedness, it may well be asked whether the care of money should not. take a leading rather than a subordinate place in any system of ! training intended to prepare the in experienced for tho battle of life. And may it not be reasonably con tended that the custom of teaching children no other lesson in .their dealings' with money than the art of- spending, it, ia instrumental in creating those habits .which may afterwards become the ban p.- of their existence. Two virtues are inseparably associated with the habit of saving—a power of self-restraint find self-denial, and the possession of ..forethought leading to a wise provision in the present for tho wants of the future. The moral excellence of these qualities depends very much upon the inspiring motive, and although we Are 'not sanguine enough, to realise the anticipa tions of the writer; of- the paraph-lei;* that the youth of the future may be. a boy who, through the disciplinarian influence of penny savings banks, will enter upon a long course of self-denial, with the object of depositing the accumulated proceeds iii a handsome donation to foreign missions, yet we do think that, at the 'worst? the lad who is led to lay up for the more perfect security of his own future happiness, is a better citizen than one who recklessly leaves that to chance. Where a boy is inherently mean and miserly the elevation of his pennriousness to the rank of a virtue and duty may strengthen his proclivities, and confirm his ) vice ; bat the remedy lies in the cultivation of better tastes and prin ciples. To give any serious weight to such an objection would be pro viding for the exception to the neglect of the common experience ami common want. The Association purpose carrying out their design by securing the creation of a special branch of the Post Office .Savings Bank, but in Auckland the object has already been partly met by the opening of a Penny Bank in connection with that, admirable institu tion, the Auckland Savings Bank. The appreciation which, this new receptacle for juvenile treasures has met with, ia shewn in the re turns for last year—the first of its' opera tion—when 1946 new accounts were opened, and deposits amounting to £1,164 lodged. Many parents have shewn great interest in. promoting % wish, (iiApug their chUdrcu ]

to make use of the bank. The aim of the Dunedin Association, to systematize and extend the working of the principle, is one which we have much pleasure in commending, and we trust ~ that the efforts of the committee will be successful in creating a colonial organisation, dissemi nating its doctrines by practical machinery iii" "all educational institutions throughout New Zealand

The special correspondent of the Waikato Times at Cambridge supplies an extremely interesting and well-written report of the inspection of farms in that district by the judges of the local Farmers Club. Instead of the old practice of exhibiting a speciiied number of roots or grain, not a sample of a crop, but the selected product of some particular corner of a field or gar den, the Cliib decided upon a system of inspection, by which the merits of a crop as a whole are fairly tested. Information is elicited ay to mode of treatment, and a store of useful knowledge is gathered for the enlightenment and guidance of farmer's generally. The inspection occupied several days, and appears to have been attended with the most satisfactory results. Gno of the farms to which the examiners devoted special attention was that at the head station of the Waikato Swamp Company, at Eurcka,in the notorious Piako swamp. " In this swamp, over which Billy Rovre once made an adventurous voyage of discovery in a sailing boat, the judges found an extensive and well-cultivated farm, with gardens, plantations, orchards, etc, One hundred acres were laid down in prass, and a large area had been prepared /or burning off during the present summer. The reporter describes tlic appearance of the swamp as "very encouraging."

We Wonder what momentous political event is brewing. Mr Whitaker and Dr. Pollen are here, and by telegraph we learn that Major Atkinson has left for Auckland ; the Hineinoa.for Mr Ormond, is on its way to Wellington, and the Hon. G. McLean, journeying to the cable conference, has arranged his route so as to form a junction with 'his colleagues in the ancient capital. All the signs of the political heavens point to a solemn Council, amid the sacred and historic associations of New Zealand's once mighty metropolis. Perchance this calling together of Ministers fromthefour winds may portend some question of statecraft only capable of accomplishment under the pure skies of Auckland, and away from the corrupting atmosphere of the Empire City. Perchance the paring down of some of those huge car buncles that have grown upon the body politic in the centra of waste, red-tape and political iniquity, and the members of the Cabinet have deemed it wise to make a hasty escape from the hnpqitunity and entreaty attending the operation. Or, maybe, as the sacred stone of Scone was deemed indispensible to tho due.inyostment of tho Royal dignity, the Cabinet, has wisely concluded that the reign of pure and economical administration, to !>e successful, must be inaugurated from a city bo famed for its enlightenment, its learning, and the virtue of its people. In this deli cate apprehension of the fitness of thi/igs. there is hidden a wisdom that augurs well for New Zealand. We have no doubt that the coining event will cause consternation in the wretched collection of match-boxes at Port Nicholson, and terrible will be the picture of evil pourtrnyed by the local press as a possible consequence or this desertion. But a change from surroundings called into existence purely by Government spoon-feeding and extravagance to those created by commercial enterprise and self reliance, cannot fail to exercise a salutary influence on the course of the approaching deliberations, and may, in the case of Major Atkinson, serve to expand those publicly expressed views of his —contracted no doubt somewhere in the vicinity of New Plymouth—that Auckland is a pauper on the other parts of the colony.

A litera'y «uT)T>i6meiit will 1c iss.ic 1 "\vitli the Star of to-mo row (gratis), containing .m variety oi; readable matter 1:1 prose ;»U v l'sc. The ".Collection of Eclio," the " House Spirit," "-Auckland Servant G"rls ia General," tlio " White Lady of Watford." and threo excellent poems will repay the reador of tI)Q Supplement a hundred-fold.

M»jor Green had an interview with the condemned murderer, Curtin, yesterday. The wretched man docs not seem at nil ay to'the fearful'position in which he stands. He says he lias done nothing hc'is ashamed of, and that if he had not killed Shaha#h'an, the latter would have killed him. lie still maintains it ivas a fair fight,

A meeting of creditors in tho estate of Win. Hyland, of Wyndham-street, was hold in tho Supreme Court Btiilcliiigs to day. T3io liquidation, order was passed, Lni> ; 1110 bankrupt's discharge was refused. !' Ecsidents of Waipu complain that their mails arc sometimes detained for a week within twenty miles of their destination. :

An old Auckland disciple of Esculapius is about to return to Auckland, from the Kaplan district, where he has been engaged in farming. This gentleman is Mr, T. B. Hill, chemist, who was a most energetic citizen, and occupied a foremost position in political and S9cial circles, lie was a member of the old City Council, and of the Provincial Council. He lias also enjoyed considerable popularity at Raglan, and on the occassion of his leaving, a number of his fellow cottiers- assembled to speed the part ing guest. !RJr. Kill, was entertained' by the leading residents in tlic district at a coaipiimentaiy dinner at Graham's hotel, Raglan.

A meeting of the Improvement Gorntn.i&-' siorera was held yesterday afternoon in the oflices, Albertj.l .arracks,present His Worship the Mayor (in the!chair), Messrs I' 1. L. Prime,- J. M.' Clark, and Captain Heale.' The ■Inisincfis before the meeting was not large. MiV Stevenson, the secretary, (reported in respect of certain properties, that two allot -1 hienfcs: had "been 'leased for £17 10s '.per annum eaclij and tliat a house had been sold for £31. Tug sale of other lands had also .been authorised.- He also"informed the meeting that, in accordance with a resolution, he had destroyed 15 debentures, representing aVaiii of £1, 500. With respect to the new school for City East, the com mittee reported very favorably as to the ■ Hiiitabilifcy .of .the'Wesleya.n church, High street, for the purpose. "A letter was read from Dr. Phi.Json'desiring a corner allot ment in Cpfyn'rg-street in exchange for another in the .same locality. The meeting acceded to the re<jue'stj provided that Dr. Philson paid the expenses of the obtaining a title to the same. The secretary stated that he had spoken to Inspector Broliam ..about the removal of the police quarters to the corner of Wellesley and Couurg-strßets, and that Mr. Broham had written to Wei; lingtoii respecting the same. Mr. J. C. Saarland's application for erecting a fence around his property in Princes-street was granted. The usual accounts were passed, and a discussion ensued on the salary of the secretary, and as it was considered that the work was not sufficient to justfy the con tinuance of his present salary of £300 per annum, it was resolved that it should be reduced one half jiu future, at least until such times as the debentures should all be taken up.

The usual annual regatta was held at Te Pahi, North Kaipara,on January 2nd. The four-oared gig race, prize £10, 2nd £2, was won by Mr D. Smith's Maid of the Mill, Mr Metcalfe's Excelsior^ second. Mr D. Smith's Amateur won the sailing race, prize £5. The other races and athlectic com petitions were well contested. A took place'at the Te Pahi Hall in the e^iing, followed by -dancing, TJia whole affair was a deeded. s\scq§s»

A meeting of the members of the Tonic Sol-Fa Choral Union will be held this even ing in Edwards-street school-room, when a full attendance is requested. An address on the system will be given, and samples of exercises.

The "Napier Telegraph" says that Dr Buller intends to settle in that town to practise his profession. He will appear for the Government in the case of H. R. Russell v. the publisher of the " Waka Maori." The defence will bo a plea of justification and the public are promised that the light of day will be shed on the secret doings of thatlittle nest of land-grabbers, the notorious " Hawke's Bay Ring."

The "Whanganui Chronicle" has adopted .a now reading of the well-known line "learn to labour and to wait." It advises tho local Borough Council to " Learn to labour and to rate!"

The Treasurer of tho Old Men's Refuge, and the Widow Homo of Parnell will oblige by calling at this office.

His Lordship Bishop Cowio has been visiting the Te Kopuru district whore he licensed Mr Gooch as a lay reader. He visited Aratapu and Kaihu, and attended an entertainment in tho Kopuru.Hall given in aid of the Parson ago Fund.

A cricket match between the Auckland v. North Shore Clubs will be played at Ellerslie to-morrow. Tho teams start at 2 o'clock in drags from the corner of Short land-street. The following aro the teams : Auckland —Buckland, Browning, Blunden, Cotton, Philson, Jackson, Abraham, McLean, Garland, White, and Lankham. North Shore — Itees, Swanson, Carter, Wliitakcr, Nolan, E. Burgess, McGechie, F. Wells. A. King, C. Burgess, and W. Webster.

The iirst payment of £5 from the accep tors in the Dunedin Cup is due to-morrow. Another and final payment of the same amount is due on tho night of general entry.

The improvements ;it Mr Perkins' Occi dental Hotel are rapidly progressing to completion. The new building is now quite finished, so far as the walk, window, doors, and plasto ring are concerned, and the connection is established between it and the old portion of the hotel. The addition will be a very important one, com prising as it does s splendid billiard room, (to contain two tables), and a commodious bar. In a week or two the workmen will bo out of the place, and then we shall be able to give a. more detailed notice.

Inspector Mallard, of Dunedin, his adop ted the plan of inquiring into all charges preferred against the police tinder his com mand. Recently a constable was charged with kneeling upon a prisoner while fixing the handcuffs. The Court, however, hold that force was necessary in the case.

The Chinese at Canton have established an English school under an English master, the main object being the teaching of the English language to the Celestial youth.

In Wellington recently a poor woman with six little children, whose husband had deserted her, w;h turned out into the streets by a hard-hearted landlord. For two nights the unfortunates slept in the streets and were-without food until the attention of the police wry; called to the ca«c. The husband is said to be earning l'2s a day.

A public chess clnb h;is been formed at Christchurch,

One of the quarantined passengers by the Australia has written to a newspaper at Christchurch, at which place he permanently rcsidos, complaining bitterly of the treat ment received by tho passengers at Motu liihi, and more especially of the accommo dation at the Quarantine Station.

Wo arc glad to see an old Auckland resident, Mr Thomas Henry Mabin, may shortly be expected to return to this city, where, we understand, he commences business again as local manager of that old-established (1782) Fire Insurance Olftcc, the Pluuinx. We notice that during lii.s stay in. London ho lias been admitted a member of the Average Adjusters Associ ation, whicH may be considered only a just tribute to his abilities in all matters relative to lire or marine insurance.

An inquest was held at the Wlihu Asylum yesterday., heforo l)r Goldsbro' ana a jnry,' on tJio body of Ann Bower Smith, who was admitted sorao six months ngo. Having heard the evidonco of Dr Aickcn and the attendants, tlie jury returned a verdict of "Death from natural

causes," . :.• The rapid progress'of iron sbipbuildiugjin Auckland is a mostJiealthy and reassuring siga, and affords the most complete reply to the lugubrious predictions of croakers. Following closely on the heels of the launch of tho Ro'tomahana, Ca.pt. Cnsey jnvitea sealed tenders up to noon of Satur day, January 20th, for the building of an iron steamer, together with supplying engines, boilers complete,' and ready for service. Tenderers are invited to be present when tho tenders are opened.

The "Waik&fco Times" strongly urges the extension of the railway from Ohaupo to the frontier, and a meeting has been called at Alexandra for to-morrow to dismiss the question.

At Dnnedin yesterday, 35 prisoners were engaged in excavating near the Southern Cemetery. A shot was put in at the top of the cliff, and the men moved to a distance of 100 yards. The explosion moved about 1500 tons of earth, a shower of fragments being scattered about, and some of them falling upon the prisoners, four of whom were injured. The log of one was broken, another man was stunned by a wound oil the back of the head, and "the two others were Slightly injured. During the after noon another accident happened, the flesh being stripped, oil" part" of the leg of a prisoner. . . . '....-,

A correspondent in the " Australasian" Bign ing himself "Struck Oil," writes -from Gjsborne, New Zealand, urging upon Victorian capita lists srcnter titteni.ion to tho vast mineral resources of this colony as a Held fot speculation. He saya:—"A few miles from hero there arc springs, of tho purest. •, pctroleui a ever dis covered, which produces from SO 1o 90 per cent, of lamp o!!, which could bo put on board at the Gisborne wharf tit 9& a gallon ; yet all that has been done to develop tlies? rich springs lias been: riono by a sukill local'company, whose capital has all boon spent in preliminai-ie.i, and. sinking a shaft 100 feet in oi'der to nnd rook, as tho American drills will only bore In that mate rial. The shaft caved in before the rock was readied, and was abandoned ; the company's bank account having shown symptoms' or! caving in at the same time. This shaft at my lust (Visit haii from eight to nine feet of pure oil in it; which I have bucketed out like water from tv.i ordinary well. The oil id so pure that yoir could sr-o the bottom of an iron bucket full of it. The oil is of a pale wine colour, and as fluid as common kerosene oil. The late company had a lease of from 0,000 to 7,ooo'acres, and the spring runs through the whole ground, and their plant is after the mo.;t approved American fashion. The plant cost over £1.000, and, I am told, could now be bought for less than half that sum, as the company is in liquidation. Tue company lias proved beyond a doubt that there is oil in abundance, and that there is nothing now required but a few thousand pounds to make this a grand success. In this matter we •New Zcalanclcrs arc far beyond the Japanese, who began boring about the same time we began here, and have now several wells producing hundreds of barrels daily, from which their lucky owners.arc realising-large fortunes. You are at liberty Ho Rive my address to anyone who may wish for information on this subject. It is rumoured here of lute that our groat flnaucicr, Sir Julius Vogel.is to raise a company in England to work these springs. I have little faith m English companies, and would much prefer to see a Victorian company take the matter in hand."

We recommend lovers of the noble art of self defence to pay a visit to Mr. Davis's saloon in Hobson-strect, opposite the Scotia Hotel. It has recently been renovated and fitted up at con siderable expense, and is now one of tho best arid most comfortable boxing-saloons in tho colony, where many a spare*hour could be spent by learning tho useful but often abused science of self-defence. Mr. Davi3 has had considerable •experience in England, and as a teacher is an art is f. of no moan ordor. Olaases arc held on different nights during the week at reasonable taring, iuid on Saturday nights the saloon ie open 1$ $$ public fy tys tyy ptf.96 Q| o»§ afci"^

It is proposed to hold a large meeting of natives at "Waitara,Taranaki,in March next, and Tawhiao is to be invited with all his Councillors. "VVaitara is selected as being the place where the war began in 1860, and therefore the most appropriate site for laying the foundation of permanent peace, and establishing improved relations between the two races. Our Dunedin telegrams the other day contained brief mention of tbo fact that a chimney sweep, rejoicing in the world-wide name of Smith, had come into a fortune of £100,000. The " Guardian ga ys:—"By the last mail from Europe, Henry Smith, who hails from London, where ho was brought up to the profession of a chimney-sweep, received a letter. As his education had never extended sufficiently beyond the alphabot to in clude the mysteries of reading and writing, the document was submitted to a friend. It proved, to be an intimation that a relative of Smiths had died in London, leaving the moderate fortune of £100,000 behind him, and that Henry Smith, or Cavorsham, was the n«xt of kin. An eminent lesalflrmin this city hvro now the business in hand, and from what h«,s transpired it seems morally certain Mr. Smith is on tho eve of step ping into a fortune such as in his most sanguine I moments he never dreamed of."

A Greek named Angelo—no descendant of him of the Christian name of Michael—of Morning ton, "Victoria, selected a novel modo or terminat ing his mortal career. In a fit of insanity no drank half a pannikin-full of molten lead, and then ran into a neighbour's house bawling out " Fire," which was not to be wondered at. The friend, having learned what had happoned, poured oil down the Greek's throat, causing him to bring up a lump of lead weighing nearly two ozs. lie died shortly afterwards, and at the post-mortem examination half a pound of lead -was taken from his stomach. This i 3 nothing. Many a perfectly sano man has died from nalf an-ounce of lead.

The following members of the West End 2nd Eleven, have been solected to play the return match with the Carlton 2nd Eleven, in the Domain to-morrow, viz:—MrCosknc, T. and J. Hauna, Taylor, Hosking, Goodwin, Caley, Taylor, G. P. Cook.Herries, Somerville.Forrest, and Stovin. Play to commence at 1.30 sharp.

A meeting of the Licensod Victuallers' Asso ciation was held yesterday afternoon at the British Hotel, Queen-street. The business wa3 mostly of a private nature. Mr. W. J. Suiter, brewer, gave notice of the following motion, which he would move at the next quarterly meeting:—" That the Licensed Victuallers' As sociation form a fire insurance society to protect the members against the oxhorbitant premiums charged on public-houses, hotels, and stock-in trade of same, by the present insurance com panies."

An interesting1 case, arising out of a County election.basbcen heardbefore Mrßroad,R.M.,at Nelfion. Joshua Bird .was elected for Motueka Hiding. Waimea County. Mr. White, the de feated candidate, petitioned against his return, on the ground that his nominators were not duly qualified electors. Thereupon, Mr. Bird, awaro of the validity of the objection, petitioned that the election might be declared void alto gether, principally on the ground that sufficient notice of-the election had not been given by the Returning Officer; al3o, that Mr. Whites nomination was as illegal as his own. Both petitions were heard, and the election declared void. The Customs officials are now supplied with their new uniforms, and present a very smart axrpcarance on the wharf. The costume docs not particularly please tlie wearers, who com plain of being incommoded by it during tho hot weather. We certainly thinlt that a light un drees uniform might bo worn by the officers who are in the open air during the heat of the day. A youngster who was fishing on the wharf close to the fish sheds about 8 o'clock yesterday evening, friglitfned his companions out of their wits by tumbling into the water. He splashed and da»hod away at a groat rate, for some mo ments and the cry of. "man overboai'd"alarmed the echoes of 1 lie. night. Then a long-armed youth clutched him by the hair and safely drew him into safety. Mr E. Frost of JKnihn, Northern Wairot, invites tenders for squaring 1,000,000 feet of kauri timber.

A larprc flitch Of timncf fell upon a workman namod'Waller at To Kopuru Mill a few days ago, breaking his leg.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before It. G. Bnrstow Esq., KM.) SUICIDAL. Thomnfl Cook, nn o,blo man, was charged with drunkenness, but said he was only stupid. Sub-Inspector Partly wsked for a remand iw tlie man was suncring from delirium tremens, and inclined to commit suicide.

Remanded for eight days. A STREET FRAY!

Thomas Smith and Timothy McCarthy were charged under the Vagrant Act with fighting and misbehaving themselves in Queen-street yesterday, by the Cosmopol itan Hotel, with intent to commit a breach of the peace. . Dora La Trope, barmaid, deposed to sewing the? mon with three pints of beer. They became Very quarrelsome and struck blows. She wout back to attend to a customer, when she hoard some one say, ". Don't kick 3iim." Saw McCarthy on the floor.

Maurice O'Stillivan, landlord of the Cosmopolitan Hotel, deposed that he saw Smith kick McCarthy. He sent for a constable and gave the man in charge. Constable Bourke took the men into custody. ? - I - . The men said they had but a slight recollection of the fray, being exceedingly drunk.

The Court found the prisoners guilty, and ordered McCarthy to pay a fine of 205,0r 48 hdurs, and Smith a line of £5 or one month's imprisonment. PARENTAL NEGLECT. . r Daniel Lorrigan was brought up on a charge, of deserting his wife and five children,- the latter being under 14 years of age. The mother, a decent "looking woman, and her five children, like stepping stones, one above another, appeared in court. Tho prisoner, a powerful-looking man, pleaded guilty Sub-Inspector Pardy said the man, who was a blacksmith, suddenly left his wife a'tid children some weeks ago in dish-ess, without even a penny in her possession. Search had been made in almost every direction but no tidings of prisoner could be obtained. At length ho was found working at his trade in the northern Wairo'a, and in the receipt of good wages. • . . ; 'Mia Worship ordered prisoner to pay a fine of £5, and costs £3 6d'; or go to prison for one month. An order Avaa also made upon ;the prisoner for 20s a week towards the maintenance oi his wife arid family. EFJUNG WOMAN. James Dyer was charged with neglecting to contribute towards the maintenance of Isabella; his wife. Tho Defendant appeared in Court upon crutches, and repudiated the charge. Complainant was called but did not. appear.

Mr Tiyev Raid that ho was certainly an ill-used mail; lie had been married twenty years to complainant, and had scarcely had an hours, peace since his ; wedding-day. TYfcf^cars,^^.] .Dyer drove him from home with the bellows, and on his return, he found that she had sold all the goods and cleared out. He had not seen her since, until thdsc -'proceedings were taken. He way now without means in con sequence of an accident. liis Worship said he would release defendant without prejudice, but he must make tupaymeiit within a month upon the order of the Court, or he would be again brought up. Defendant promised to do this, and left the Court. WITHOUT A LIGHT. Philip and John Turner, and .John Gormau, three carters in. the employ of Mr Barnes of Onehunga, were summoned to shew cause why they went without lighted lamps to their carts, on Twelfth night. The men pleaded griilty. Mr Barnes explained the circumstances, which could not be helped. • Fined Is and costs 5s 6d, in one c;iso ; tne other two wore withdrawn. EDUCATION RATE. The cases of Daniel Ormo and William Adcock, for non-payment of the Educatiou rate, were adjourned until the 13th inst.

APPLICATION. Jane Donovon, wife of "William Dqnovou, - applied for a protection order on the ground of cruelty and neglect. Application granted, \ This was a.U \h& bi^in^,

My Weakly Dose.

(BY THE DOCTOR.)

" Laugh to-day ; yo may weep to-morrow." ABOUT ALMANACS. ;'•'-_ This is the season of tho Almanac mania. 1 hey pome to you in great broad sheets enclosed in round your patent pills, and by and by they_ wiu come with your butter. When you Book tired nature's sweet restorer your slumbers aro harassed by visions of flaming almanacs and confused columns of figures in colend»r."vT^t is a mysterious power in almanacs wh eh most people have no conception of. For instance. gWpkins received by last mail from England a copy of Zadklel's Almanac, and one evening he sat down to study its contents. He got a, little confused in the astrological parts about the Scorpian and Ursa Major and Mars being in conjunction with the moon, but when he camo o the prophecies for tho year 1877, he rubbed his spectacles, and after a little while began to feel dizzy.. Ho was found by wfri Simpkin3 oat in tho back-yard at throe oclook noxt morning absorbed in the stuay of the he&vcnlv bodies. He has since been committed to the Wliau on the testimony of two respectable medical men. As for Simpkins, ]un.,.ho was discovered standing on his head against tne water tank tryin* to read Zadkiel. Mrs Simp kins weeps and says, "it's all along o that almanac." Hero is another case. Bloggs went to a social re-union, and got home at three in tho morning. He was troubled by compunc tious visitings of conscience as to disturbing his slumbering spouse, so he slept on the door-step till the man came with the matudinal miiK. Bloggs became a martyr to rheumatism, ana was advised to visit [the Hot Springs at latipo. He went straightway, and bought a pocket compass and an almanac containing a chapter on " The Hot Lakes and Springs of tho North Island," with an itinerary. -Then he went forward with a light heart. At Ohmcmutu he disdained the services of a guide, anc resolved to trust to that itinerary. He travelled on until nightfall, and then began to think it was time to sight the Hot Springs. What he die sight was a score oC tatooed Maons,who rushed out and danced the war-dance, flourished their tomahawks over the head of Blogg's, and In a lauguage which was strange to him, bade him . make himself scarce. Bloggs gave them all his i loose silver and retraced his steps. Ho tried to correct his bearings, and at nightfall was floundering in a treacherous morass. Then he cooeo'd for two hours until he was hoarse, and to his great joy he heard a voice saying liarro Jack, you makee roose. Kapai you come ronga me." He floundered out of the swamp and followed like a lamb to a friendly pa, where he slept in a whare till morning. Then it dawned upon his mind that tho itinerary and the pocket compass were incomplete without a guide, bo he engaged one who spake English, said he had been born in the district and knew every inch Of tho ground. Bloggs said ho thought that with tho aid of his invaluable itinerary and the guide he might safely proceed. They came to a broad beaten track, and Bloggs was dolighted to find that the features, of the country corresponded with the description in his " Hot Lakes and Springs." He |walked along witli the book in his hand. Anon they came to a place where two roads branched off right and left. "Ah," said Bloggs, "now I know where I am. This is really a most valu able book. Let's see ? now we turn to the left. "No fear, cocky," replied the half-casto, "we turn to the right." "My friend," said Bloggs, " you're mistaken. This invaluable book says W. by S. half W., and" it can't err." " I don t know"nothing about books," replied the guide,, "but I've lived here since I was born, and I say we go to the right." Bloggs thought it might be a typographical blunder, and followed the half caste. Next they reached a lake, which Bloggs again recognised by the description in the almanac. " There," he exclaimed gleefully, a-s he pointed to the page. " Wonderful book ! I know this place. It's Kotokakaha." "No it isn't," replied tho guide, " Its Tikitapu." " Well. that's cool." replied Bloggs, " perhaps you'll toll me directly that I can't sec." "All I knows," said the half-caste, "is as Tve lived here for twenty years, and this is the famous blue lake." Bioggs was dumbfounded. He bogan to regard the half-caste with suspicion. What if the man was leading him to some lonely place for the purpose of murdering him, and running off with his watch and chain, and cash ! The perspira tion broke out all over Blqs^s as he thought of his wife and ten small children. But it would never do to turn back now ; he had gone too far to retreat. He would go on in the hope of meet ing some traveller, to whom ho would explain his predicament, and crave protection. He followed the guide at a safe distance until they oame. to another lake. Bloggs' heart gave a great bound, and he looked again at tho "Hot Lakes and Springs-" Sure enough here was a description of this very lake. "I've got yon this time," said Bloggs, " this is—let's see ? (and he put on his spectacles to make sure) why, of course, this is Tarawcra." "I'm Wowed," said the guide, "if yov aint wroncr again. Why, Mister.this is Kotokakaha. 'Til bet you ten bob," said IJlogsrs. "A note," said the guide-. "Done with you," replied 15!0.'?g5, and they travelled on . to where*, they met a Ein-opcan, to whom they appealed to decide the bet. He decided against Bloggs ; the guide said softly, " Hand over the sugar." Bloggs fumbled in his pocket, and in a state of delirious excitement handed over a ticket for a soiree. He corrected liis mistake, and they went on. Blowers put the invaluable almanac in his pocket. f'lt was all a horrible dream ;"he said, "he would wake up directly, and find himself in his bed at home." But tlmro wn3 the native settlement of Wairoa : ahead of him, and (hero was no mistake about it. Tho folio win?' day Bloggs tried the infallible-, bufc got completely bogged among the numberless jets of steam geysers, the fniriarolcs, 1 and boiling cauldrons of Rotomabana.and when he got back to the Ohincmutu Hctcl,he solemnly took out that almanac aud. danced a war dance .on the top of it. Then he rakod it with a stick into the lire, and watched it slowly consuming ■ in the fiames.and when it was a blackened mass of tinder, he took a whiskey, and went to bod. This is what comes of trusting too implicitly to I an itinerary. I '■ THE WRONG MAN- He had boon burnt out twice, and his promises had been flrcd by incenciiariets fifteen, times in twelve months. It was all very exhileratingr, and iii the winter season it kept hii'i warm, but it got rathrr monotonous, and he sighed, for" a change. Tin bought a revolver, and determined. , to catch that inor.ndia.vy or dio in the attempt. lie stayed up o' nights for five weeks in succes sion, caught cold, rheumatism, tirvfiolouroa'ix, cafcarah, fever aud agu^, and went into a £oT;op' ina: consumption, organic and financial. But he was a man of determination, and didn't fl'.r.ch. He had made his will and ordered a cofiin, and prepared to see it out to the bitter end,. Ho was ■on watch one night us nsunl. Ho heard a foot step, and than in tho dim starlight ho made out the figure of a man leaning against the fence in the .shadow. lie whispered softly "Mary, my love, brine: ms ray rcvolveiv' Bitter mockery! he only heard certain olfactory sounds risiug and falling- in regular cadences. 'llosaidajrain iv a louder whisper, "Mary, wako up, bring the shooter.*' And for nil answer there was only the same nasal breathing. Then ho swore mentally, rushed in and clutched his revolver, rushed out - again into the yard, and aiming the woanon at the head of - ( the incori diary, called upon him in tones of thunder to surrender in the Queen's name. The man said . "nil. right," and surrendered.- "Comn to the police station at onco," r.airl his captor. "Take care.young man," said the incendinvv.rvho wa« a tall man, "that that there blamed thing; don't go off." "Gome along at once, you expletive villain, I've [Caught you at last," replied the other. Tho incendiary walked to th". police station, the revolver bein^ bobbed under his noso nt every few paces. Sub-Inspector Par&x" was there, and whon the incendiary wars brought in he smiled a grim smile. "Hero lie is!" said the man with tho revolver, popping it up in a line with the Sub-Inspector's head, "I've nailed the infernal villain at last!" The Sub-Inspector calmly motioned' theyoung man to put down the weapon, and said. " You've e:ot the wrong man, I'm sorry to say, Mr. —-. This is one of our constables in plain clothes, whom wo have ordered Lo watch your place." The young man felt faint, staggered to tho door, and got home,' he hardly knows how. Since then he has been attended night and day by two doctors, and has been taking nowerf ul sedatives.

THE NIGGER QUESTION. : Am I not a man and a brother?" Of course yon arc, my dear Sambo. Has not thcr Grand Lodge of the 1.0. G.T. sat in all its grandeur xipon this errand question, and in grandiloquent terms settled the matter for evermore ? Tho Jiat has p^onc forth, and hereafter, my dear Sambo, you are entitled to half my bottom dollar, and you may, if you feel so disposed, come to my house iincl daio with me, and you are at liberty to marry my sister, or my grandmother, iust as your inclinations may lead you. You are our equal, my dear Sambo, just in the same way as a cab hack is equal to a " Traducer," or a woi-king bullock is equal to a short-horn pedigree bull. It wnl be so nice and handy. Sambo, when you sco to any of thos? entertainments which our {food friends of the 1.0.G.T pet up occasion ally, ldu will be ab!o to {rive your valuable assistance in the nigger business, without the trouble and fuss of getting yourself up with burn* eorlc and lamp-oil: and your nc^rro ecccn trioition will bo genuine and naitiJral. Mete phoneaily, brother Sambo and sister Squaßhy, I sivo you tho prrip, drink your health, and iiopo you will live long and prosper.

GIRLS TRAINING AND HIGH SCHOOL.

Tins institution was opened to-d.iy, and -wo nnderstnnrl, with every prospect of success. Iho buildinsf has been fitted'for the require ments, and the arrangements have been carried out with cave and efficiency. In the lady principal. Miss St.ot.hard, parents havo a guaran tee that the pupils placed undor tuition at the establishment will receivo all those educational advantages which the possension of high Mass attainments and accomplishments in the super intendence are calculated to confer. Wo under stand that the appointment of a povor neas has not yot been raade, thdueh the merits df several ollgiblo candidates aro: un*R r * ■ pQßSidoration. The Misses Eeala and MaeUy will be the iwaistat governesses, wsHe^eß^^ai^j^st^r, Mr Xt&r* >vM

give instruction in French and Italiar, (jUg. singing will be taught by Mr Brown, ana caUs! ttinci will I»under the> charp ot?Mi W BSL As soon as the attainments of the pupils requi£ them, masteis wiil be encaged for LatT va>, bra, and Euclid. Mr Hoffman, Mr Be. £?«„ Edger, and Kiss Stubbms, will give lesaiSijg' the pianoforte, singing will be taught bfMrs Mitchell and Miss Edger, and dancing by Miss Bell. The ordinary currieu.urn. will Compri^ English history, natural srlsnce, elocution, W " guagos, accomplishments, and training in indng. trial work. The fees are on as low a scale aa k consistent with rendering the establishment solf supporting. Mies Stothard will personally nre. side over the boarding department, and wm neglect nothing likely to render tho pnp i^ comfortable and contented. The quarter days for tho present year are Jan. 12th, April Ist, j u i y Ist, and Oot. Ist. ._

GRAND LODGE, 1.0. G.T.

YESTERDAY —CONCLUDED.

THE CAPITATION TAX.

After a number of resolutions fixing the amount of capitation tax for the ensuing year had been put to the lodge and lost, it was carried that the sum be 4d per head per quarter, "with an additional sum of 34 per head per year, to be raised voluntarily ELECTION OF OFFICERS. The election of Grand Lodge officers for the ensuing year then, took place. Grand Worthy Councillor : For this office Brother Johneon (Wellington) was unanimously elected. Grand Worthy Vice-Templar :-l Three persons were nominated : Sister Harris (Thames), Brother Tregear (Tara naki), and Brother Fair brother (Wellington). A ballot was taken with the following re . suit: Brother Tregear, 45; Sister Harris, 16 ; Brother Fairbrother, 9. Brother Tre ; gear was therefore declared elected.—Grand Worthy Secretary :—Bros. 0. S. Ellis (Auckland), S. Worms (Auckland), Harris (Thames), and J. Stalhvorthy (Newmarket) were nominated. Brother Worms subse quently withdrew his name. On being put to the lodge, Brother O. S. Ellis was elected by a large majority. Tho numbers were: Brother Ellis, 50; Brother Stallwortky, 13 ; and Brother Harris, 6.—Grand Worthy Treasurer : — Three persons were nominated to fill this office : Bros. Le Roy (Parnell), J. W. Carr, and J. Way mouth (Auckland). The ballot resulted: Le Roy, 34 ; Waymouth, 25 ; and J. W. Carr, 9. As Bio. Le Roy had not the necessary majority over Bro. Waymouth, the ballot was recast, with the following result: Le Roy, 44; Waymouth, 26.— Grand Worthy Chaplain :—Bros. Hemna and Tinsley (Auckland), and Troy (Napier), were proposed. Result of ballot: Bro. Tinsley, 53 ; Hemus, 13 ; Troy, 2.—Grand Worthy Marshal: This office was contested by Bros. Troy (Napier), Scott (Thames), Fairbrother (Wellington), and Woodruffs (Tauranga). Bro. Fairbrother was elected by a large majority.—General Superintend dent Juvenile Temples : Only two persons were nominated, Bros. Dorington (Parnell), and Stickley (Auckland). The result of the ballot was: Stickley, 53; Dorrington. ' 23. Bro. Stickley was therefore declared; re-elected.—The appointment of the re maining officers, viz., Grand Assistant Secretary, Grand Guard, Grand Sentinel, and Deputy Grand Marshall, was deferred. Tho session adjourned at 6.30 until 9 o'clock this morning, in order to enable the repre sentatives to be present at the Temperance meeting.

THIS DAY.

MOIIKDJG SITTING*

Tiie lodge was opened with the usual ceremonies. Minutes of yesterday's sitting were read and confirmed.

APPEALS,

The first business brought before the Lodge was the further consideration of certain appeals from various Lodges, and the decisions given thereon by the Grand Worthy Chief -Templar.

PROPOSING TOASTS,

The following decision of the G.W.CR:; was unanimously sustained :—"That ft member of the Order cannot take the chair, and propose toasts, at public -banquets." BRANDY AS A MEDIGIIsE. Brother Campbell (Pokeno), moved the ; rc-considcration of the affirmation of the Grand Worthy Chief Templar's decision, which was as follows :—-" That a member does not necessarily break the obligation by partaking of brandy in a case of sudden illness, but he is open to charge for so doing. : His Lodge was the best judge as to the rectitude of his conduct. The motion was lost, and Brother Campi bell gave notice of motion to move its re consideration at the next session* to bo held in Wellington, in 1878. ritOrOSEDI CONFERENCE, Sister Mary Collis. Grand Worthy Vice- Templar, (Taranaki), read the report of . the Oommiltce appointed to consider the I subject of a proposed confeience with tho Australian colonies, for the formation of a Worthy Grand Lodge fur tho colonies. The report recommended the advisability of holding such a conference, if practicable, : ; —the only apparent obstacle boing the ' want of necessary funds. Brother JSdger (Auckland) moved the adoption of the report. Brother Nodder (Thames) moved "That the consideration of the matter be deferred until next session."

The Grand Worthy Chief Templar, explained at length the advantages to be derived from the formation of such a Worthy Grand Lodtre. Brother Tinsley supported the adoption of the report. On being put to tbo lodge, the amend ment was rejected by a large majority, and the adoption "dftho report earned by 45 to3#

IMPHOVEMENT OF THE OEDER. . The special committee on the rcportof the select committee, on the uotice of motion referred from last session, brought up the following report,—" Th;it our Order would bb.ins.n aU:nctive, and efficient were the: unity of action, in. districts provided for in its organization ; were more caution exercised in supervising the tone of amusement and class of instruction given in the lodges ; were mercenary incentives removed ; were the initiatory ceremony shortened." Brother Clark (Taranaki) moved, ana Brother Fairbrother (Wellington) seconded the adoption of the report. Brother Edger read the following sub stitute :—

"Thai tins Grand Lodge, affirming the . preamble, which states the causes of weak ness in the Order,, as, carelessness in admit* | ting members, want of unity of action, . especially political, and the growth of a trivial spirit with the want of a more 8 morally improving influence, agrees on the principle of requiring some better guarantee of steadfastness from initiates ; of giving a 1 more decisive political character io Vie highest degree, and securing general unity of action; aud of "making some better ! provision for regulating entertainments in | the sub-lodges ; and in affirming" these principles, leaves it to the Entertainment Committee to consider tha best means ot practically giving them eilect, and report at the next sessions to bo held in 1378." ,1 j Sister Collis, G.W.V.T. (Taranaki)>ovcd , the adoption of this substitute. On being put to the meeting, the report | of the committee was negatived. An amendment was proposed, " That the whole question be referred sine die," ana it was carried unanimously.

INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS. ~ ' M To suit the convenience of Brother Tinsieyi whose duties required him to leave town 3, v, 2 o'clock, it was resolved to proceed at. ' J the installation of officers. The f^fSSff'i brethren were appointed by the eloctod oiHcent m to whom they were attached:—Deputy £ranu Marshall, Brother Potts, (Wellington); Grantt.;^ Guard, Brother Howoll (Taranaki); Grand Sen* I tinel, Bro. Troy, (Nanier); Grand Assisranj Secrotarjr, Brother Chiluian. The officers l« ■ the ensuing' quarter wero then installed in » | Shepherd, Grg,r.d Mftrsh.oU. ~ * v 'aM

THE EVENING STAR, FIUDAY, JANUARY 18, 1877



! FURNITURE 1 JD.?\ :.\ 4! ;;;;•;;■::;- \ liitdtes Ah'i &enlUwtii about to Famish arts reject fyivfl fre<iMilcd to inspect the Large StocJi of z>namn'a--jcoo.vc, diking- - room • ■ UJSJs&O'Q&y. AND OENERAL HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, ■• jfw inst*New and Spacious Slwivrooms. 3 :,. .: ~:i- ■;■>*), QUSEN-STBEET ■ ; V ■£$£$$&J&anfc of Neiv Zaalan-i. ■h\v 7fpi?h ists. . visitors to •i'1 :i^tfcf^O' AfTX) THE L.IKES. ,'-.*'• ( '«. y\'s >.-; BUGOII--.S (DOtJBIi,TIC i 'AND SINGLE), AND SADDLE ls)i;S3iJs,; AIRWAYS READY FOU IHBE.'A' rt RBASONAI3LS CHARGES'.,'..^,, ; Parties intending to go through to tlie Lakes provided with flrst-olass animals by .. - B. EDWARDS (Late of Cobb & Co.), LIVERY STABLEKKEPER, Hamilton Hotel, Hamilton, Waikaeo. . CONTINUATION ■ m CLEARING-OUT SALE. -ffi» GRS/VT REDUCTIONS IN ALL KINDS OF CLOTHING! SPECIAL LINES for TO-MORROW :- Own Make Trousers and Vests, 37/G—Reduced to 21/. Drab Shell Hats, 16/6—Reduced to 6/. ; Gents' Coloured Scarfs, 3/., 4s/.—Reduced to /10. W. EATTRAY, OUTFITTER ANP CiOTmEft,



jj- o T I C E. j DRAPERY GOODS, NEW AND CHEAP Ml j The undersigned hare Purchased at Auction \ a LAUGH LOT of NEW DRAPERY GOODS, ; just landed ex City of Auckland, the whole ot , which having been bought at much under the ! usual Warehouse Rates, they can afford to oiFcr to their Customers at Vkry Low Pkioks. The Parcel comprises :— \ Grey Calico, various qualities, from /3i--1 yard i Strong White Calico at /■! yard, or 3/10 doz. ; 72-in. Grey Sheeting, 1/ yard, good quality i 72-in. & 80-in. White Twill Sheeting i 72-in., 80-in. & 90-in. Croydon Sheeting:, I,'G yard Huckaback Towels, good, /G each, 5/9 doz. White and Unbleached Damask and Damask Table Cloths, from 2/6 9/4,10/1 & 11/1 Alhambra Quilts, good qualities, 3/11 Rough Brown Holland, from /B yard Half-dressed ditto, superior quality, very cheap at/10jand 1/ „,,„■! Black Lustre, and superior quality Black isril liantine Lustres New Prints, good patterns, at /4}, /SJ, and /6, very cheap Harvard Shirting, good quality, /7J yard Fine Irish Linen, lot of Remnants, a bargain, from 1/i yard „ , Gents' Br. Cotton Half-hoae ca. €( merino feet Grey and Fancy Striped Meitao Hall'-hosc, and other goods too nuraerou j to mention. All Purchasers Of Drapery and Clothing should inspect our Stock, and prove that although NOT selling off, we are giving full value fob MONKY. „ SW One Shilling in the & returned on all pur chases of 20s. and upwards. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN, Upper Quken-stkekt. Auckland.



An Iniquitous Game is being played by cer tain flagitious scamps who put cheap and fiery liquor in bottles which have held the national medicated beverage, Unou'iio Wolfe's Kcnifi dam Axiomatic Soiinapp3, for the purpose ot deceiving the unwary into the belief that their vile concoctions arc identical with the great original. Demand the genuine.