SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

-„.,_„„ i This Afternoon, 9.1 HlfcrH WATER--, To _ monw Morning, 9.23 SUN SET.—This Evening. iA3 SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning, 7.16 MOON'S AGE.—First Qua tor, ISth, G. 3 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

W. C. Went worth, barque. Low, from New castle Samoa, schooner, 103 tons, Weiss, from Fiji Freetrader, three-masted schooner, 3*o tons, Captain Merrknan, from Melbourne.

DEPARTURES.

Bowena, s.s., fcellars, for Tauranga Lionel, s.s., Waters, for Hokianga Nellie, schooner, Armstrong, for the Thames

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

For Sydney—Zoalan-Ha, s.s., about Friday, loth

inst: Hero, p.s., about the 20th For the South—Taupo. s.s., 15th inst.; Welling-

ton, s.s., Tuesday, 19ch For Napier—Southern Cro^s.s.s., Thursday For Kaipara—Ethel, brigantine, early; Thomas

and Henry, bri^-, e-u-ly For Napier and South—Rofcorua, s s., 20th inst. For the Islands—Flirt, brigantine, early For London—Electra, ship, early; Anne Gam

bles, barque, early. For VVaogarei—Argyle, every Tuesday For Lyttelton—Wave of Life, schooner, early For Chatham Islands—Omaha, brigantine early

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Zeaiandia, s.s., (English Mai!) from 'Frisco, Friday, loth Hero, s.s., from Sydney, about the ISth inst Miss Kilmansegg, brig, from Dunedin : sailed 3rd. inst. Cabarfeidh, barque, from Lyttelton, early early Melrose, barque, from Newcastle, early Sarah and Mary, bvkc. from Lyttelton, early Lombardmn, ship (N.W.G.T.), from London : sailed 11th March Freetrader, barque, from Melbourne; sailed 21th ult. Yosemite, ship (H.W.V.L.), from London, sailed 13th April G. Broughton, ship, (N.K.Y.Q.), from London, early. Dilpuss'ind, barque (M.G.M.D.), from London, early. Spirit of the Dawn, barque (H.T.Y.C.), from London : sailed 2nd March Elsiuore, barque, from New York, early Samoa, schooner, fro vi Fiji, early Belie Brandon,' schooner, from the Islands, early Shannon, schooner, from Melbourne, early. Pearl, ketch, from the Islands.early Vision, brig, from Sydney, early Ryuo, brigantino, from the Islands, early

IMPORTS.

Per W. C. Went worth, barque, from New castle :—360 tons coal.

Per Samoa, schooner, from Fiji

11 tanks, 201 tins and 63 bags flour. 11 kogs molasses, 410 mats sugar, 22 facks and 1200 cocoanuts. 1028 bags maize, 51 bales cotton. 1 cask whale spades. 11 kegs molasses, and 110 mats sugar.—Owen and Graham.

22 sacks coeoanuts, and 1217 bags maize.—l 3 Tonks and Co.

Per Freetrader, from Melbourne : 22 pkgs. tobacco, 310 pieces stone. 1 pkgs. merchandise, IS cases vestas, 5 bundles cane, 30 cases kerosene, 69 cases geneva. 190 do. brandy, 20 pkgs. hops, 50 cases claret, I J-casks wine, 10 }casks whisky, 11 cases bitters, 52 J-chests tea, 19 firkins white lead, 10 drums oil, 2 bales corks, 1 cask paint, 1 case saddlery.—Jno. Reid and Co., agents.

Per Freetrader, from Melbourne .— 236 gas pipes.—Stone Bros. 110 bundles wire, 251 bars iron, 36 bundles do.— E. Porter and Co.

10 cases vestas.-

-Barnett and Levy.

31 eases tobacco, 120 bags rice.—Owen and Graham.

The s.s. Taupo is to leave Onelmnga, for Southern ports, at 11 a.m. to.morrow. The 9.15 a.m. will be the last train available for passen gers. H.M.S. Sapphire and Renard were at Levuka when the Samoa left.

The schooner I^ellie left for the Thames this morning. She ■will load white pine at the Hauraki Mills, for Lvttelton.

The s.s. Rowena left last evening for Mercury Bay and Tauranga. The s.s. Southern Cross is to leave this after noon, for Napier direct.

The barquentine Emu arrived at Adelaide on the 9th instant.

The steam tug Lionel returned to Hokianga, from the Manukau, yesterday.

It will be seen by our to-day's cablegrams that the p.s. Hauraki left S3"dney yesterday. She is bound for the Ma&ukau, and may be expected about this day week.

Captain Weiss, of the schooner Samoa in forms us that the ketch Patience had arrived at Levuka with the crew of the schooner Ida, of Sydney, which was wrecked at one of the neighbouring islands in January last. The vessel is totally wrecked, but all hands are saved.

BThe three-ruastee schooner Freetrader arrived this morning from Melbourne with a. cargo consisting of general goods and stone for the new dock. She comes consigned to John Reid and Co. Captain Merriman reports having left Melbourne "m the 2ith ult. He hod light easterly winds for 7 days, and thick, dirty weather afterwards.

The Government steamer Hinemoa left Lytteltan for Vv'ellington at 6 p.m. yesterday, having on board His Excellency the Governor, Captain Maling. and the Hon. C. C. Bowen. The barque W". C. Wentworth arrived in harbour last night, with a cargo of coal for Messrs Stone Bros, She left Newcastle on the 25th nit., and before she was well clear of the land heavy S.W. gales set in, which continued for several days. To the eastward of Howe's Island the vessel was hova to in a tremendous gale. A heavy sea struck her, smashing the boats and causing the ship to spring a leak on the port bow. The pumps after had to be kept going every hour. Moderate weather was afterwards experienced. The North Cape was roundod on Tuesday atSp.m. A good N.W. breeae was carried to the Kawau; thence light uncertain air 3 into port. The schooner Jilierton, after discharging her cargo of coals at Helensville. is to proceed to Aratapu to load timber for Lyttelton. The schooner Samoa, from Levuka via Cicia, arrived in harbour last night with a large cargo of maize, sugar, and other Island produce, This vessel was repaired here some time ago. She ■'vas then the property of Messrs Godeffroi and i3on, of Samoa, bat has since changed hands, and she now belongs to her present master, Captain Weiss. Levuka was left on the 21th ult.. and Cicia on the 31st. Strong southerly winds and heavy seas were experienced to lat. 31 S.. and long. 172 E. Thence light S.E. winds to North Cape, and fresh N.W. breeze and thick weather do»'n the coast.

The brigantine Odahsk was still at anchor at the North Head this afternoon.

The barque Alastor has almost finished her discharging. After taking in ballast she is to sail for Batavia.

COMMERCIAL.

Messrs Cochrane and Son held a sale of miscellaneous literature at their mart to-day consisting chiefly of standard periodicals, eucyclopcedias, and the works of Hogarth, the painter. The works averaged good prices. In consequence of the inclement weather Messrs Tonks and Co. postponed their sale of winter goods xmtii Tuesday next.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Uxder :— For THbames, this day, at 5^30 p.m.; and to-morrow, at 4.30 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. F^r Coromandel, per Argyle, to-morrow at

2.30 p.m. For Napier, per Southern Cross, to-morrow at

3 p.m. For Tauranga and Gisborne, per Pretty Jane,

to-morrow at 3 p.m. For Samoa, per Flirt, to-morrow, at 1 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, per Rover, to-morrow at 4.30 p.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Taupo, immediately after arri% ral of Zealandia from Honolulu. For New Caledonia, per Alarm, on Saturday

next, at 11 a.m. For Chatham Islands (via Whitiangi), per Rowena, on Monday, 18th inst., at 4 p.m. 8. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

A flood of liquid, rubbish lias been placed upon the market, put up in Udolpho Wolfe's Schie dam Aromatic Schnapps bottles, the genuine contents of which have been used. Spurious labels are also often used by the scamps who seek to persuade the public that the hurtful liquors thus disguised are the same or similar to the true andpeerless medicinal cordial. Ask for the genuine and insist upon having it. Relief from Cough in Ten Minutes.— Sharland's Cherry Pectoral, a specific for Colds, Coughs, Asthma, Consumption, Bronchitis, Lung Diseases, &c. It acts hke magic. Price, 2s. 6d. and 4s. 6d. a bottle.

Sharland's Instant Cure for Toothache; Is. a bottle.

Sharland's, opposite Post-ofttce, Auckland.

NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Crowded Out.—A large number of letters to the editor are awaiting a chance of insertion.

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

. For the cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs icsistance, For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do.

THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 1877.

■It is utterly impossible, through the con fusion of Turkish names, confounded by telegraphic blundering, to trace step by step the courses of the invading and oppos ing armies. Two positions, mentionedin cable grams to-day, Pennek and Datour, find no place, so far as we have been able to discover upon maps or in gazetteers. Previous despatches have, however, described as the "right wing" of the Russian army, the column advancing on Erzcroom in Armenia, by way of Olti. We may assume from this that Pennek represents some village on that line. Passing from the minor details, there is no difficulty in forming a general idea of the lines of operation. In Asia, Kars, the scene of so many conflicts, is besieged by the Russian centre. North of it, and cutting off assistance from that quarter, the Russian right has passed, capturing Ardahan, and pressing on to wards Erzeroom, the capital of the Paclialic of that name, a walled city of GO, 000 iu habitants. South of Kars, the Russian left "wing captured Bayazid, and, so far as we can gather, is following a line somewhat similar to that adopted in IS2S, for the purpose of uniting in front _Qf_l£rzflrQ£HO_—mifch——tlifL-ji-cht. wincr. An

appears the most consistent with the general tenor of the telegrams and plans of previous campaigns. The main body of the Turkish army in Asia is encamped at Hassan-Kaleh, a town of 5,000 inhabitants, about 20 miles east by north of Erzeroom, and between that place and Ktirs. Hassan-Kaleh, in the days of Genoese trading, was prosperous. It is double walled, and its conspicuous buildings are a castle and seven mosques. But, like the rest of Turkey in Asia, the hand of decay is over all. The town is built on the river Aras, and near it aie a number of hot springs, of some celebrity as bathing places. The right and left wings of the Russian army were expected to converge near Hassan Kaleh, and we looked for the first pitched battle at that place. But it would appear from the despatch of Muhktar Pasha, who is in command of the garrison of Kara, that the Turks have taken the offensive against the left whig and centre, before the right wing has come up, and that the Russians, abandoning Olt'i, are in retreat. If this information is relia ble, and the movement is not a feint, the invadeis have found that their advance has been too rapid, and their force is too weak for the enterprise in hand. De feat to the Russians, so far distant from their base of operations, and with Kars in their rear, would be a serious disaster. Da tour, from which it is said, a Turkish contingent has been rtent to assist the Circassions in revolt, may be intended for Batoum. If so, the" force would no doubt be conveyed by .sea over to the eastern shore of th« Black Sea, and landed at tho erstwhile Russian port of Soukhuni - Kaleh — which lias now, through the vigorous action of the fleet, fallen into possession of the Turks. Whether tin's is a right interpretation or not, it is evident that while the Turks have thrown their main defence in Asia back from the frontier with the object of weakening the enemy's available force by removing it from its base, they Jiave also made a success ful diversion, taking theottensive on Russian soil. The movement was known to form part of the plan sketched in the outset of the war, 3,000 Circassian troops in the Turkish service having bean selected and organised as a contingent to assist a rising of the discontented Mohammedan populations un der Russian rule. From the Danube, we now learn definitely which crossing places have been chosen for the passage of the Russian army. Both places have been repeatedly mentioned as probable crossing points. The terminus of the Roumanian railway at Giurgevo, opposite Rustchuck, specially indicated that as the .spot where the main body will pass into Bulgaria. The bom bardment of Rustchuk from batteries thrown up on the opposite side of the river will form the next stage in the progress of events. The river at Xikopolis is narrow, and favourable to the purpose of the invaders. We attach very little importance to the reported repulse of the Russians in attempting the passage. Our telegrams shew that the armies are not yet concentrated at the points d' appui, and any engagement that has taken place is, in all like lihood, no more than a reconnoitring affair. News from the Seat of War in Europe will now become more exciting. The concentration of tin; Russian army on the Danube has occupied the six weeks estimated by Major Russell before the outbreak of the war. The transport successfully eiieeted, the invading hosts will advance in parallel columns upon Shumla, a town about 20 miles from the Balkan passes, and .situated at an elevation of 700 feet above the Bulgarian plains. Latest telegrams announce insurrectionary agitation in the provinces of Epirus and Thessally, fomented, no doubt, by the Greek population. The Porte has, altogether, a large stock of troubles on hand, but if the cable dis patches may be relied on, it lias met them with exceptional vigour. While holding the Russian armies in check in Asia and on the Danube, and taking the offensive in Chcaasm, the detachment sent against the Montenegrins have gained signal successes. There is reason to believe, however, that the news gets some of its tinge in the course of infiltration through Turkish channels.

We have received the following letter from William Solomon, a half-caste New Zealander : Sir, —I wish to complain through your columns, of the treatment 1 received to-day at the Thames Hotel. I went there at about half-past twelve o'clock, and asked to be supplied with dinner, when a waiter told me that " nig gers could be served after Europeans," and 1 was obliged to walk out, and go elsewhere for my dinner. Now, sir, I would like to ask you whether distinctions of this char acter ought to be made in a free country, and if my money is not as good as any other mau's without reference to colour. Having served the Queen in this colony under Col. Whitmorc, Major Yon. Tempksy, and Col. McDonnell, it is rather hard to be insulted by a waiter.—l am, &c., W. Solomon.

At the Council meeting yesterday, a letter was read from Mr C. J. Stone expressing his willingness to asphalt the piece of path way opposite his property in Princes-street as soon as the Corporation had decided on the level of the .street. It was pointed out that this had been Mr Stone's reason for not complying with the law some time since. It was resolved that measures be taken to enforce the laying down of the asphalt.

The entertainment of the sailors of the Light of the Ocean Lodge, was well attended last evening in the Albert-street Hall, Bio. Best, W.C.T.,occupied the chair, and delivered a humorous speech full of good, and useful hints. The following was the programme of the evening, the execution of which gave general satisfaction :—Recita tion, Bro. Bromlay; song, Bro. Jones; song, Sis. Elder; song, Bro. Wheatly ; song, Sis. Hathaway ; song, Bro. Smart; song, Bro. Phillipps ; harmonium solo, Sis. Norton ; song, Bro. Macfarlaue ; song, Bro. Wheatly; song, Bro. Hill; song, Bro. Sceats. The National Anthem brought the merry meeting to a happy and loyal close.

The Pakuranga Hunt will take place on Saturday next. Huntsmen and hounds will meet outside the Scotch Church, Ho wick, at 11 o'clock.

The first meeting" of the creditors in the estate of Charles Darrell, Wyndham-street, was held yesterday. The liabilities were £116, assets £29. Mr Thos. Macft'arlane was appointed trustee.

The annual general meeting of the share holders of the Union Beach Gold Mining Company, is announced for the 2Sth inst., in the Insurance Buildings.

Telegraphic communication has been restored on the Port Darwin line.

To " Mercer," in answer to his advertise ment in the STAB of last evening, requesting to know, " When shall we meet in church ?"—

You ask, when shall we meet in church 1 I an3\ver, love, on Sunday next; But pray don't leave me in the lurch; Nor fail to note the preacher's text. When you shall hear St. Peter's bell, And on the church-wall sparrows perch, I shall expect, it' all be well. To meet you at St. Peter's Church. In reporting the case heard yesterday in the Supreme Court re the application for writ of prohibition against the Kaipara Licensing Court, an error occurred. The I counsel for relafcors did not state, as reported, that Mr Hutchiuson " had suggested and desired that application should be made for his own satisfaction." The mistake arose Trough the reference made hi Court to a somewhat similar case iv Duuedin, in which a publican had made such an application. On the present occasion proceedings were instituted quite indepen dent of Mr Hutchinson. A man, named Hugh Ferguson, fell dpad

The trustees of Ponsonby and or Dedwood resolved, at their special meeting, to bring the " Regulation of Local Elections Act, 1866," into force in the district. It is hoped and fondly anticipated that this decision will tend to the restoration of har mony and peace among the ratepayers of the district.

At the Ponsonby meeting of District Trustees on Tuesday evening, the question of Mr Stevenson's charges was discussed, and finally referred to Messrs Hesketh and Richmond for their legal opinion as to whether the Board should pay the award.

The business at the Police Court this morning only lasted a few minutes. Mr G. S. Kissling was the presiding Magistrate, aud the offenders charged before him were a woman named Johanna O'Conuell, and three men, named Abraham Codd, Adolph Carlson, andJuo. Upperten. The last nameed, whatever his appellation might imply, was by no means aristocratic-looking as his hair was down all over his eyes, and his face was bleared and inflamed. "Guilty" was the admission of one and all, aud the usual sentences were inflicted. Private letters received in Wellington lastinail, state that Sir Julius Vogel was again seriously ill, and that he had been unable to attend the office for nearly a fort night.

The Wellington correspondent of the " Hawke's Bay Herald" says there will be considerable departmental reductions in the next year's estimates. The Civil Service regulations have been rendered very stringent. Officials are compelled to lunch in their offices, are only allowed half au-hour for tiffin, aud are forbidden to smoke during oilico hours. The exact time of each officer's arrival and departure at and from the oliice is noted, and no clerk is permitted to quit the Government Build ings without the special leave of a Minister or Under-Sccrctary. On the other hand

the Ministerial residences are gorgeously furnished at the public expense, and even a piano, at a cost of £90, is not wanting to complete the comfort of Dr. Pollen's house hold.

A narrow escape from drowning took place last evening on the Qucen*atrcet wharf. About eight o'clock an old man was noticed on the steps of the North Shore Ferry Company's T, and from his unsteady manner, there was little doubt that he had been drinking. Presently he missed his footing, aud fell into tire water. He screamed lustily for help as he struggled with the over-rushing waves, and his cries reached the ears of the seamen and pas sengers on board the steamer, Tainui, who fished thu old man out of the water, and saved his life. The Minister of War at Belgrade has stated oiHcially that the Servian losses during the late war were in all SO'JO killed, and 20,000 wounded.

At Sedgley, when a young man was being buried in the parish churchyard, a publican named Budge came forward and poured a bottle of spirits on the grave, saying thatajas the deceased had been fond of spirits when in life, he should have some now he was dead. For this lie was fined 2.">s, the charge against him being that of desecrating the churchyard. Mr W. Rowe M.I I. R., has promised to address his Coroniandel constituents before proceeding to Wellington.

The question whether or not a racecourse can be rated has lately been decided by the Privy Council on an appeal by the Mayor aud Corporation of Esscndon, Victoria, against a decision by the Supreme Court. Tue borough of Esscndon had assessed the Flemington racecourse as of the annual value of £2."i00, and struck a rate of £125. The Com mittee of the Victoria Jockey Club appealed to the General Sessions, on the ground that the racecourse being Crown Land was not subject to rating, and .secondly, that the valuation was excessive. The General Sessions supported the appeal, and the Supreme Court, on a special case stated, confirmed the decision. The Privy Council however, holds that the racecourse can be rated.

Messrs Fay and Davies were compelled to postpone their combined entertainment last evening at the North Shore, in con sequence of the wet weather.

A case of cruelty to a wife, somewhat similar to one which occurred in Auckland, has been brought under the notice of the police at Wellington. A man named Kerr, able to earn when sober £3 12s a week, was so addicted to drink that he sold nearly every article in his house, even to his wife's clothing. Mrs Kerr obtained a protection order, aud Kerr was ordered to pay 30s a week into Court for her maintenance and the support of the children. However, after a short separation the wife was induced to live with her husband again, in the hope that he would reform, and con tribute towards her support. But her second treatment was woiv>c than the first.

For some reason, which has not yet been explained, ho locked his wife and children in the house, leaving them neither food nor fuel, and only a straw mattress to lie upon, with a few rags of thread-bare blanket as a covering. In this condition they remained nearly two days, the husband keeping guard in case they should be able to get out. A neighbour, finding out the circumstance, insisted on the husband taking his wife in a baoiu of gruel, and it was with the greatest reluctance that this request was complied with. The gruel was the only food which the poor creatures had tasted for over three days, and during that time they neither had firing nor proper clothing. These facts reaching the ears of the police, Sergeant Price proceeded to the house, in Tinakori Road, and obtained entrance thereto. He found the woman and her children lying on their wretched bed in a very emaciated condition, and with every appearance of abject poverty about them. Not only was this the case, but the woman was covered with bruises and cuts, inflicted apparently by the boots of her husband. Dr. Diver reports that slit is in a very serious condi tion, she having been kicked all over the body, which bore black and blue marks.

The s.s. Rotomahana brought up from the Thames yesterday a large consignment of gold for the Bank of New Zealand. There were in all seven boxes, containing 75070z lidwts of the precious metal.

Shareholders in the City of London Gold Mining Company are reminded that the ninth call of 2s Gd per share was due on the 7th instant.

The members of Nixon's Light Horse Troop of Cavalry met last evening for the purpose of saying farewell to Lieut. Calvert, who is leaving Auckland for Dunedin. The chair was occupied by Captain Isaacs, who called upon Sergeant L. Martin to move the following resolution, which on being seconded by Sergeant Farrier Scotter, was carried by acclamation : " The Auckland Troop of Cavalry regret exceedingly the departure of Lieut. Calvert, as he lias endeared himself to the Troop by his gentle manly demeanour and soldier-like bearing, from the time of his joining the corps to the present time." Lieut. Calvert in retur ning thanks, spoke in high terms of the Troop generally, and regretted that circum stances had compelled his separation from them ; he hoped however, that his stay in the South would not be of long duration, and should he be fortunate enough to return to this city, nothing would give him greater pleasure than a reunion with his old comrades in the bonds of true soldiership. Captain Isaacs in a eulogistic speech spoke pleasantly of Lieut. Calvert's abilities as a soldier and a citizen, and heartily wished him success and prosperity in his new field of action. Captain Isaacs then entertained the men with his wonted liberality, and the health of the Captain, the members of the Troop, and Lieut. Calvert, were drunk in full measure.

It has been decided that a special meeting of the City Council shall be held on

The issues in. the libel case of Henry Anderson, editor of the "Evening Post," v. Gillon, Kent, and Waters, proprietors of the " Evening Argus" have been filed, and the case comes on for trial next month.

In addition to our yesterday's notice of the funeral of the late Mr F. W. Pilling, we may state that the funeral service was impressively performed by the very Rev. Father Fynes, V. G., also that the plate on the coffin contained only the simple inscription, " Fredrick William Pilling, aged 22." The rain fell heavily as the mourners stood around the open grave. Several friends pressed forward and dropped posies of white flowers, emblems of purity, upon the coftin. In token of esteem for the memory of the deceased, there will be no football play on Saturday next. A meeting is projected for the purpose of considering the rules of the game, with the view of rendering the sport less dangerous to life and limb.

Sims lfeeves, the great tenor singer, was recently obliged to decline £70 fur a song, at Manchester, owing to a cold. The " Lan tern'"' wants to knew how much he will charge when he comes 10,000 miles to visit Victoria for asking " My Pretty Jane," not to look so shy, or requesting Maud to come into the garden.

The dangerous gully at the bottom of Baker-street, and the unprotected embank ment in Elliott-street, have been brought under the notice of the City Council and referred to the Streets' Committee.

Mr Frederick Davidson's tender for fencing in Hardinge-street, .has been ac cepted by the Council. The amount is £18 10s. '

The Market House |has been leased to Mr T. M. Machattie. The question of bondsmen is still before the Council.

It was resolved yesterday by the City Council, that the offer wnd arrangement for lease of the Hour mill at the Western Springs, made with Messrs Maxwell and others by the Mayor at the request of the Finance Committee, 1 c accepted. The term of the lea*e is 21 years, which did not meet with unanimous approval. Councillor Msisefield proposed 10 years, but lie was out voted.

The keeping of " Saint Monday" being very general among the so-called working men of Warrington. The local Bench of Magistrates have intimated that, in future the penalty for getting drunk on Monday will be double what it will be for getting drunk on any other day.

The City Council have decided not to grant any pecuniary assistance to the Mechanics' Institute, the Councillors being of opinion that such assistance would be of no permanent benefit.

The report of the Streets' Committee, which was adopted yesterday at the Council meeting, indicates that steps will be taken to carry out the following works : —To call for tenders for the drainage of Upper High street ; to make a footpath in Domain street ; to repair Liverpool and Upper Queen-streets at an outlay not to exceed £3 ; to commence the drainage of Upper Queen-street early in the spring ; to build a retaining wall at the lower end of Hobson-street ; and to lay (lown^an asphalt crossing opposite the I«auk of New Zealand.

The Minister of War at Belgrade has stated officially that the Servian losses dur ing the late war were in all SOOO killed and •20,U09 wounded.

Sudden Death.

A max named George Christopher Douglas died suddenly last evening, in a cottage in Elliott-street. Douglas was a West Indian, about fifty years of age, and had been em ployed as night porter at the Royal Mail Hotel, Victoria-street, lie left the hotel yesterday morning, and complained of ill ness. He applied to DrDawson for advice, and thai gentleman, thinking there was nothing serious, gave him a bottle of medicine and some pills. He went home to hi.s cottage, and lay denvn. Shortly after four o'clock, he was heard to moan heavily by his next door neighbour, Mrs O'Donohue,

who went to see what was the matter. She found Douglas lying on the floor in great pain, with froth at the mouth. He desired her to send for a doctor, and subsequently Sergeant Clarke, who had been informed of the man's illness, procured the assistance of Dr Stockwell, who immediately pronounced life to be extinct. Dr Stockwell gave a certificate as to the cause of death, and the police took possession of the body.

THE CITY AND HARBOUR BOARD RECLAMATIONS.

A SOKT of triangular duel is just now tru-

ing on, with varying success, between the city, the Government and the Harbour

Board, with respect to the reclamations recently made by the Harbour Board along the city northern boundary. A short time ago, the Mayor and Council, in accordance with the Municipal Corpora tions Act, forwarded a petition to the Governor requesring that the City Boundary .should be extended so as to include the added area of land. It was understood that there would be no opposition to the granting of this request, but on the 25th ultimo, a letter was forwarded from the Colonal Secretary's office, to the effect that "the petitions having been referred to the Harbour Board, objection is taken on several grounds to the proposed extension being effected at present/" To this his Worship replied as follows :—

June 10, iaT7. Sir,—l have the honor, under the directions of His Worship the Mayor, to acknowledge the receipt of a letter, of number and date as per margin, from Undcr-Secretary Cooper, in reference to a petition addressed to His Excel lency the Governor, praying that the boundaries of the city may be extended so as to include certain reclamations seaward, wherein you inform His Worship that the petition having been referred to the Harbour Board, objection is taken on several grounds to the proposed extension being effected at present. His Worship does not clearly understand what is sought to be conveyed in your reply. It purports simply to state that objections have been taken by the Harbour Board, and yet, being a reply to a petition from the Mayor and Council of Auckland, it is fairly open to the inference that the decision of the Government is, evidently, that the objections raised are'fatal to the granting of the petition at present. Presuming this to be so, he trusts that you will pardon him noticing that it appears to him as if the Government has adopted an exceptional method in determining this important public matter, upon what may be termed an ex parte statement.

The Petition was forwarded in accordance with clause 30 of the " Municipal Corporations Act, IS7G," and it was not considered necessary to adduce reasons in support of it, under the erroneous impression! that no objection would be taken to the proposed extension.

The Council were not aware, nor does it appear to be so implied, that the consent of the Harbour Board is required. The Mayor regrets that the Council were not afforded the opportunity of commenting on these objections—the nature of which theyjvre in ignorance—prior to the decision of the Go vernment, for it is possible that they are based on untenable grounds, or are inconsistent with the real progress of this city.

lam desired to point out that the interests mainly sought to be obtained in laying out streets on the reclamations are apparently of a pecuniary character. The question arises to what extent i 3 the public convenience likely to be sacrificed on this account, and as at no distant date they will probably form part of the city the action of the Corporation is natural. As the Government have undertaken the responsibility, and relieved the civic authorities of the onus, His Worship is satisfied that they will not treat this matter with indilf-irencs, and expresses the hope that they will be good enough to take immediate action, ere any allotments are let, and he cordially tenders any information at his [disposal. I have, &c, P. A. Phillu'S, Town Clerk. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. On the 7th instant, the Government re plied by telegraph:—"The Government postpone advising His Excellency on the petition for extension of city boundaries to give the Municipal Council an opportunity

a special meeting should be convened for the purpose of conferring with the Harbour Board, if the Chairman of that body adopts a similar course. One of the main points at issue, it may be observed, is the question of the width of the beach road from the wharf to Freeman's Bay, and the right of the city to contribute towards its formation. The question is likely to excite considerable discussion, but what ever the issue, we think it will be admitted on all hands that a serious injury Aviil be done to the whole city if the reso lution of the Harbour Board to make the road less than 10 feet wide is given effect to.

CABLEGRAMS.

[PRESS AGENCY.]

THE W A B.

This Bay.

Russian Eight Wing in Asia.

E-Assians Estreating Batwasn

Hars and Srseroiim.

Olti Rst&ksn ly Turks.

Russian Leyy of 250,000 Msa.

Sasvirreotissa^ Agitation, ia

SINGAPORE. June 13, 11.15 p.ni, Mukktar Pasha has sent dispatches, re porting that the Russians are retreating between Kars and Erzeroum. He states, also, that Olti has been aban doned by the Russian army, and retaken by the Turkish forces. A general rising of the inhabitants of Candia is expected. The Russian Government has ordered a military levy of 250,000 men, There are insurrectionary agitations at Epirus and Thessaly.

CZAR AT BUCHAREST.

TURKS OPERATING IN C'RCASSIA

REPORTED RUSSIAN REPULSE AT

NICOPOLIS

THE RUSSIANS MASSING TROOPS OPPOSITE RUSTCHUCK AND NICOPOLIS.

SYDNEY, June 13. The Hauraki left here yesterday. Albion arrived from Melbourne to-day.

LONDON. June 10. Grand Prix de Paris: Steristople, 1 King Lear, 2 ; Strachino, 3.

LONDON, June 11

Berlin papers consider that dissolving the French Chamber would imply a triumph of the Ultramontanes, and involve a general conflagration of Europe The Czar is at Bucharest. The Russian right wing is falling buck ou Pennek.

The Turks from Daiour are operating in the Circassian provinces. Lord Salisbury, at Taylor's banquet, in sisted on the necessity of maintaiuf:ig Euro pean peace, but being at the same time, ready to defend British interests if required. Lord Dei by concurred, adding that mainten ance of peace is of the greatest importance to British interests. •

Official dispatches state that the at tempted passage of tlie Danube by the Russians at Nicopolis was repulsed. The Russian Press is indignant at the notion that Russia will be satisfied with peace without solid guarantees. The Turks have been successful in Montenegro.

The Russians are massing troops opposite Rustchuek and Nicopolis.

The Turkish Chamber have authorised a forced loan of live millions sterling.

ORPHAN HOME, PARNELL.

The distribution of prizes awarded to children of the St. Stephen's Orphan Home, Parncli, at ths late examination conducted by Rev. R. S, Hassard, took place at four o'clock yesterday afternoon. Owing to the rain the attendance was small. Amongst those present were Mr G. P. Pierce, lion, secretary of the Home, Mr Dyer, tke blisses Lusk. Maunsell, and Eoskrudge, and Mrs Embling. The children, who were assem bled in the schoolroom to the number of 30 girls and 20 boys, looked remarkably clean, neat, and healthy, and were.in charge of Mrs Cameror, ma tron and Mrs Scarlett.'school-mistress. The prizes consisting of books, were arranged on a table. Mr G. P. Pierce read the report of Rev. R. S. Hassard, who was unable to attend, and shewed that a highly satisfactory examination had been passed, and that great progress had been made iv the studies, more particularly in arithmetic. The Right Rev. the Bishop of Auckland having addressed a few artpropriate remarks to the children, then presented the following prizes:— Class I.—Mary Jones, writing; James Watts, arithmetic; Henry Poison, geography; Charley Holmes reading,—this boy also received a second prize for obedience.

Class 2.—Fanny Norris, arithmetic; Perpetua Waitoa, writing; Ellen Wai-ana, reading; Christina Cameron, two prizes for general im provement and obedience.

Class 3. Johnnie Powell, George Scorgie, Claudia Corlett, Ida Bruce. Infants • Edith Swift, Laura Watts, Sarah Watts, Carolina Win throp, Harriet Glazebrook, Maggie Corie-t, John Watts, and Elizabeth Forshaw. Some friends of the Home also presented two prizes to Claudia Corlett and Georse Scorgie, and Miss Liisk and another lady had kindly given prizes, consisting toys, which were presented to all the children by Mr Dyer. The proceedings ended with the singing of " The Sailor Boy," by the cmldren.

PROFESSOR HENNIKIE.

This talentedprestidigitfcur and illusionist, hav ing been unable to secure the theatre, will give a performance in the Choral Hall on Monday evening, when the public will have an oppor tunity of witnessing a series of the most extraordinary feats of conjuring ever pre sented in Auckland. The Arabian box mystery as performed by Professor Hennikie puts tho Davenports entirely in the shade, and is equal to anything: accomplished by even the Fakir of Oulu. The trick was performed last week, in the presence of the Hon. F. Wbitaker Judge FentoD, and other geutleinen, who wen away with the impression that Mr Hennikie is either in league with the Prince of Darkness, or is one of the most accomplished illusionists of* the day. Thomas Walker, or any other man to the contrary notwithstanding.

Fiji.

DROWNING OF ALLAN BAILLIE, FORMERLY OF THE THAMES.

Bytlie arrival of the Samoa, schooner, from Fiji, we are in receipt of news from Levuka to the 24th tilt. The principal item relates to the drowning of Mr Allan Baillie, who was at one time a Magistrate in New Zealand, and a Warden at the Thames Goldfield. He was a J.P. in Fiji, where he was recently engaged in commercial pursuits. The schooner Byron brought in telligence to Levuka from Mokogai of the drowning of Mr Baillie oil" that island. The particulars are as follows.—Mr Baillie recently purchased a email schooner—the " Beatrice—" and left Levuka for Mokogai. It was blowing a strong easterly breeze when Mr Baillie started, with only two-men (Sandwich), as a crew. A very "heavy sea was running outside, which prevented the schooner from making Mokogai in a direct course. When v.'ithin about two miles of the island and to leeward, in putting the vessel about, a heavy squall struck her, and being in very light ballast she careened over, filled, and went down like a stone.

the heavy sea running making it n 0 eak4 matter to make ueadway against it T! two boys assisted poor BaSlie as wellS they could, but- he evidently must heve "of. very weak, for, turning to 'the natives *W bade them " sa moce" or good-bye told them to make their way to land and ie>v> him, then sank down out of sij>ht They tried by diving to recover him, but were unsuccessful, and after a hard battle or some twelve hours with the sea succeeded in reaching the island of Mokondran^, about half -a - mile from Moko^'aV The affair cast a deep gloom over the resi dents at Levuka, and much sympathy was felt for his family. A conceit was imme diately got up to raise funds, at which all the musical talent of the place assisted. It was well attended, and a considerable'sum was raised.

The total number of births at Fiji for the year ending April, 1577, was 57, deaths 36 and marriages 20. There were remarkable tidal disturbances at Savu Savu on the 11th ult.

The survey of Levuka by Royal En gineevs is proceeding rapidly, and Crown grants will shortly be issued* Sergeant-Maj or Clay was attacked \iith sunstroke.

Governor Gordon received the Samoan chiefs with considerable ceremony at the vice-regal residence. The address of the thirteen chiefs desired that a frhip-of-v,-ar should be sent to Samoa until a reply was received from the Crown, with reference to the proposed Protectorate. The Governor, in his reply, requested that the Samoau chiefs should more explicitly state their wishes in the matter of protection, and^ stated that though a British nutn-o'-war would probably visit Apia, there could he uo interference with the internal affairs of Samoa, or in any differences with foreign powers, until more definite relations were brought about. The chiefs returned home in. the Menchikoff and Lurline.

The Governor, in an addrssa to the Legis lative Council, stated that the necessary works at Suva, the new seat of Government, would be commenced as early as possible! as some compensation to owners of property in Levuka.

( Jovernur Gordon proposes Crown grants iv fee simple of allotments in the new capital, free of all charges but cost of graiit and survey.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATES COURT. This Day.

(Before E. C. Barstow, Esq., R.M.) JUDGMENTS SOU PLAINTIFFS. National Bank of New Zealand v. llobt. Stokes —claim, £16 10s (promissory note) - r judgment tor £8 6s. balance, costs, £2 10s ■„ Mr Alexander for plaintiff. Charles T. Wren v. Andrew Robertson— claim, £12 0s Sd (goods) ; costs, £2 7s; Mr Alexander for plaintiff. Samuel Coombes v. W. K. Sadler—claim, £5 6s (goods) j costs, £2 9s ; Mr J. B. Russell for plaintiff; Thos. Faulder v. Geo. Purchas—claim,. £1 11s (work) ; costs, £1 4s 6d; Mr Brock for plaintiff. Messrs Gee and Potter v^ Wib. Smith—claim, £11 Is (work); costs, £2 7s; Mr Thome for plaintiff. E. H. Hughes v. J. D. Bentley—claim, as 44 (goods) ; costs, 14s. Harbour Board v. Edward Smith—claim, £2 16s (wharfage); costs, £1 12s Gd ; Mr J. B. Russell for plaintiff). H. P. Quigley v. William Smith, claim,«£ 3 17s, labour, costs, £1 4a Gd. H. P. Quigley v. W. P. Hayden, claim £1 7s, casks, costs, £14s Sd (J. B. Russell for plaintiff). J. McLachian v. Michael Grace, claim, £1 17s 6d, goods; judgment for ISs lid, balance, costs, 7s. - DEFENDED CASES. Mark Somervillo v. S. Rochfort, claim £29 os. Mr Brookfield for plaihW Defendant appeared in his own defence.. The particulars of this case have already appeared. Mr Rochfort commenced to address the Court, quoting largely from decisions iv similar cases from Lords Mansfield, Elleu bprotigh, Campbell, and other eminent English Judges, on points of law in relation to debts contracted by a wife under peculiar circumstances. Mr Rochfort then referred at length to the canon or ecclesiastical law, and quoted a number of lengthy extracts bearing on conjugal relations and responsibilities.

THE WAR.

(To the Editor of-the EVENING STAR.) ,SIX, —As people generally seem to be now much engaged in discussing the great Eastern Question and the present alarming imminency of a great general war about it, I feel impelled to give forth another independent thought on the very same concern, for I think there has been here in Auckland some very bad teaching con cerning the whole affair. And, in fact, the presumption of some individuals iv confidently and dogmatically affirming perfect knowledge of the whole of the com plicated problem is. truly surprising ; it has really seemed to me to amount almost to impudence. First : Then, sir, who is to have Constantinople ? Any power on the earth, say I, rather than the Mahometan Asiatic Turks. They stole it. They were always in the wrong when north of "the Dardenelles. And'they have trampled down the fairest and best portion of God's earth to an arid wilderness. They actually shut up the Black sea; and 47 years ago Russia forced open the Black Sea to the commerce of the whole world. Rather than allow the wretched Turks any lengthening of their baseless tenure, give, for goodness sake, that beautiful country to the Maoris ! I—Now, sir, shall Russia have it ? Well, really, it seems strange that the people do not see that if in the chances of war they win, they roust for awhile possess or occupy that grand metropolis as the straightforward and proper sequence of war. But they could not, would not, permanently hold it. All the powers know that. That is a settled point, and Russia has twice certi fied Europe they never desired to hold it- Well, sir, anyhow or anyway all parties know they cannot and must not retain it. Take it, I pray God Almighty, they may* ~ and that soon "and easily, for it would; sum up and finish the horrid' Sir, just you now give it to Christiau Greece. The Greek, or Russian-Christian Church, is less corrupt than some other of the Christian Churches— the Latin, for instance. Much ignorant presumption *s evinced concerning this matter in loiw, confident talk : and the people here do say, rather than allow Russia to get into Constantinople we will fight—ignorance I I am, etc., W. E. Sadleb.

AUCKLAND WATERWORKS LOAN.

(To the Editor of the STAR.) ; Sir,—Referring to the letter published by the Bank of New Zealand in your paper el 12th iast., in which it is stated that float ing the £25,000 by debentures would be " watering the security of the previous loan, and would, besides, be a breach oi good faith with the debenture-holders oi the £100,000," I am really at a loss to see either point—in fact, the argument wfl ««. hold water. As already pointed oat, tne Act of 1572 authorises the borrowing.©! any sum or sums of money, for L *Jj* purpose of bringing the water vm - the town, and 'the present difflCUJtj arises solely from the loose way in vvnen the Act is drawn in so far that no specim mil is mentioned as the amount m be borrowed. But this does not in anr **?■ affect the question at issue—the £25,wui - part and parcel of the £100,000-inaßpiucn that it is to complete and perfect uw security of the latter. It is now propebeu to introduce, a new bill this session, : giving power to hypothecate other.rejenu* - of the corporation as security «_ the. £100,000. Can anything be raoio-; * JimnsiiAiiß thnn this in fie UP of !l"" E':" v"1 ''"^ajj

THE EVENING STAR, THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 1877.



SMALL PROFITS AND QUICK RETURNS. WINTER DRAPERY AND CLOTHING. USHBROOK AND BRIDGMAN Invite the attention of Purchasers of Drapery to their Large and Complete Stock of NEW AND SEASONABLE GOODS. A number of Special Lines now offering:— Girls' and Ladies' Waterproof Mantles.—A lot slightly damaged to be cleared out this season at Very Greatly Reduced Prices. Ladies' Black Cloth Jackets very cheap Moss Trimming, assorted colours, lOldper doz. Good Strong. Wincey, heavy make, fd.yard Striped, Check, and Rob Roy Wool Plaids, very cheap Ladies' White and Shetland Lambswool llo3e. f?ood. Is 3d per pair Goad All-wool Flannel. Is per yard. An Unequalled Stock of BLANKETS. Further supplies just received, all sizes and qualities, at Very Low Prices. A lot of Moleskin Trousers, small Men's sizes, various qualities, at Great Reduced Prices to clear A large stock of Gentlemen's Overcoats, Macin tosh Coats, &c. Clothing of every description for Boys and Men Hosiery, Shirts, Hats, Caps, &c, &c. Is. in the £ allowed on all Cash Purchases of 20s. aad upwards.



T U S T RECEIVED, Ax Assortment ov BOY'S TUNIC SUIT S, In a Variety of Shades, From 12s OVI to 27s 6d. ALL KINDS OF Boy's and Youth's Clothing Inverness Capes Pea Jackets, Overcoats Hatg, Shirt?, Braces Ties, Scarves, Socks W. RATTRAY, CLOTHIER AND OUTFITTER, Neav Zealand House, Aunicuxn SPECIAL NOTICE. H. L. PO3SENNISKIE, TTTTT A 1111 LL OO RRRRR TT A II L O O 11 R TT A A II L O O R-R-R TT A—A II L O O R R fTTAAH L O O R R | TTT A A 1111 LLLLL OO R R AXD HABIT-MAKER, S H O R T L A N D -STREET, Auckland. H.L.P. begs to inform his customers and the public generally that he has Just Received a Large Consignment of WINTER TWEEDS and FANCY COATINGS; also, a Special Line of SUPERIOR SILK VBSTINGS. N.B.—The Trade supplied at a small advance Tnvoice Price?, for Cash. MJTUAL LIFE ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALASIA. INCORPORATED BY ACT OP PARLIAMENT. NEW ZEALAND BRANCH: Head Office, Auckland- Local Director: 7R3E Burg^-vxe Owen, Ssq. (Messr3. Owen and Graham.) Principal Medical Officer : Charles Field Goldsqro', Esq., M.D. General Agent for New Zealand : William T. J. Bell. With Sub-Agencies in all the Principal Towns. Every information on the subject of LIFE ASSURANCE ANNUITIES, and ENDOW MENTS FOR CHILDREN, afforded by J. A. Lowe, Travelling Acrent to the Association WILLIAM T. J. BELL, General Agent. ' iPECtAii Features.—Age admitted on policies, which are unchallaxgeaulk from date of issue. Lowest Rates of Premiums, and no hamper ing conditions as to residence or occupation] DECIDE AT f\ N CE ! ! CARPET YOUR ROOM NOW ! £ H A L BRUSSELS, 4s. OD. feb YARD. BEAUTIFUL QUALITY ! SERVICEABLE PATTERN ! AT THE gar CITY HALL ARCADE. ~®R CHEAPEST CARPET EVER OFFERED TO THE PUBLIC ! HoLLOWAY AND GfARLICK, GENERAL HOUSE FURNISHERS. J. COSGBAVE & CO., Beg to inform the inhabitants of Auck land t/iej/ zcil/ hold a SALE of the remaining portion of their WINTER DRAPER! AND CLOTHING on TO-MORROW (Friday), loth June. They will firing forward a large quantity of Job Goods, arrived by Alastor, consisting of Ladies Costumes, Mantles, Shawls, Furs, French Hfcri noes, Fancy Dress Stuffs and Silks. The Goods will he offered to the public at Very Low Prices, in order to clear.