■Whitson, D G.M. ; Thomas Ellison, S.W.; Lucas Martin, J.W. ; F. M. Hewson, Treasurer; C. J. Cooke, S.D. ; James McEwen, J.D.; F. Street, I.G. ;C. Porter, Tvler. "Members : —Bros. W. R. Hendry, R. M. Kitchen, C. G. Browne, James Coombes, M. Gallagher, Alexande. Dewar, Henry Brett, George Sibbiu, A. Tait, James Smart, J. W. G. McLennan, Alexander yieminc James Crawford. T. Mason, C. Saint, Farquhar Macrae, John A. Clark, N. McCulsky, D. McAffer, M. Murchie, A. McCoskrie, Lionel Phillios, W. H. Nicol. Visitors.— E. Pardy,~P.M., 454, 1.c.; John Dickey, 689, E.C. ; C. N. McMurdo, !647, E.C. ; Jas. Lewis, 533, S.C. ; H. «y Woon, 533, S.C. ; John Emerson, 533, g C • Chas. Bull, 533, S.C. ; Jas. Ander son'- W. Bevan, 17J0, E.C. ; Edwin S. Wilcocks, 1338, E.C. ; W. J. Grey, 1338, E C. ; R- Cameron, 348, I.C. ; Neill Lloyd, 42; K. G. Schwartze, 879, E.C. ; Stephen E. Hughes, 348, I.C. ; L. A. Nathan, Prince of Wales ; R. Brown, 418, S.C; j Butter, 659, E.C. ; T. Leigh White, 348, j'c ; 0. V. Hill, 586, I.C. ; W. H. Skinner, P.M., 1338, E.C. ; F J Moss, P.M., E.C. ; James Brookes, 41S S.C. ; E. B. Dickson, 418, S.C. ; J Bennett, 689; J. Edger, 553 ; Morton Jones, 421, S.C. ; A. Farquhar, 533, S.C. ; John Wade, 533, S.C; W. Wilkinson, 1655 E.C; A, Cunningham ; Jas. Martin; Thos. Gillibrand, 689, E.C; W. Reid, 533; James Cassidy, 533, S.C; Wm. Laird, Locke of Light, S.C; Isidor Alexander, 348,°1.C. ;P. Jones, 348, I.C. ;J. W. Kobinson, 689. E.C; A. G. Purchas, 671, E.C. ; John H. Hooper, P.M. ; R. W. Browne, Remuera, E. C. ; William P. O'Callaghan, 586, S.C; W. J. Suiter, J.D., 421, I.C; John Osborne, 1655, E.C; W. A Waterman. 418, S. C; Geo. Fraser, 533, S.C.; N. 3. Cox, 1.G., Beta, 450; Chas. Marks, 659, E.C; H. Kessing, jun., 855, E.C; J. Brown, 418, organist; J. Black, 454, I.C; C.O.Montrose.W.M., Prince of Wales, No 1335; John Darrach, Rodney, 1711, E.C.; CL. Thompson, 431, and 2S ; CA. Robertson, 5338 ; James Lee, 586; T. Holland. E.C ; J. Forgie, 533, S.C ; R. Prohl, 330, S.C ; George H. Powley, 34S I.C. ; W. H. Jacobs, 1655; |A. Barr, 421, I.C. ; R. Farrell, 689, E.C. ; George Graham, D.G.M. ; William P. Moat, 1711, E.G., D.I.G.D.E.C ; William Atkin, 1338, E.C ; John Kirkwood, 449, I.C. ; J. H. Burns, P.M., 421, I.C. ; H. L Possenniskie, 348, I.C ; Charles Walmutfc, P.M.

THE BALL,

The ball was one of the most perfectly managed and successful that we have seen in Auckland. The Stewards, of whom the chief was Brother Adam Brock, must be complimented of the tout ensemble of the arrangements, which were such as could not fail to be conducive to the comfort of everyone. The decorations in the hall •were particularly effective, and the gay costumes of the ladies presented a more than usually brilliant appearance. On the gentlemen the bright coloured aprons and regalia relieved the sombre black. The programme was well selected, and the music was capitally interpreted by Mr Impey's band. We could not avoid noticing a little rub which the arrangements of the flags seemed to give to certain gentlemen who from the report of their proceedings in concert a few days ago would appear to require it. The Auckland Steam Packet Company's flags was prominently hung over one of the doors in the north Aving, and a gentleman was once heard to say that the directors, being nearly all of them Masons, should not require to be reminded of their brotherhood. The supper was laid out in tht south wing, and Avas an elegant and substantial repast. Messrs Stacey and McEwen were the caterers, gand carried out their contract thoroughiv and well. THE SUPPER. At 12 o'clock the doors of the supper room were thrown open, and there was a rush to the tables, which groaned beneath the weight of substantial fare, tastefully laid out, and all the delicacies of the sea son. Bro. Whitaker, P.G.M., S.C., occu pied the chair, with Bro. Graham, D.G.M., E.C., and Bro. Lazar, D.G.M., of West land, as Croupiers. After the company had satisfied the cravings of the inner man, the signal was given for silence. THE SPEECHES. The Chairman, the Hon. F. Whitaker, P.G.M., S.C., then rose and called upon the brethren to fill their glasses. This having been complied with, he said : Ladies and brethren, —At Masonic banquets there is one toast which takes precedence of every other. That toast is one which takes pre cedence, because of all other bodies Free masons boast of their loyalty, and boast of it in a manner in which they are entitled to boast. The first toast on all Masonic occa sions is " The Queen and the Craft."

The toast was drunk with demonstrations of loyalty, and with English honours, Bro. W. J. Rees, P.M., who sat on the left of the chairman, giving the time. The Chairman again called on the brethren to charge their glasses, _ which having been done, he said : Ladies and brethren, the next toast that I have to propose to you is that of " The Prince of Wales, the Grand Master of the English Constitution, and the Grand Patron of the Scotch and the Irish Constitutions." It is therefore our duty, as loyal subjects of the Queen, x and as looking forward at some future time to H.R.H. succeeding to the throne, and regarding him now in the exalted position as Grand Master of the English Constitution, and the position he holds with regaid to Freemasonry generally, I say it is our duty to propose the toast of H.R. Highness' health, and to drink it with all houours. I therefore give you the: toast of H.R.H. Prince of Wales, the Grand Master of the English Constitu tion, and the Grand Patron of the Scotch and the Irish Constitutions.

The toast was drunk with those marks of loyalty which peculiarly distinguished Free masonry, and with three times three. The Chairman again rose, after a short pause, and- called on the brethren to charge their glasses. He then said : Ladies and brethren, the occasion on which we are met to-day is one of the greatest importance. One part of the proceedings was the in stallation of Bro. George Samuel Graham asR.W.D.G.M. of the English Constitu tion. It is our duty, theretore, on an occasion of this kind, to propose his health. He has been a good Mason for many years, and I have not the slightest doubt that the brethren of his lodge have done well in appointing him to his present high office. I am quite sure that you will have the very greatest pleasure in drinking the toast of his health as I have in proposing it. I propose therefore the health of R. W.D. G. M. George Samuel Graham. The toast was drunk with Macduff honours. When the enthusiasm had subsided, • Brother G. S. Graham, D.G.M., E.C. rose amidst cheers, and said: —Ladies, brethren, and gentlemen, I have to thank you for the kind and cordial manner in which you have responded to the toast that has been propose 1. I will not preface ■with the customary " unaccustomed as lam to public speaking," &c. —(laughter and cheers)—for I feel that lam not such a dizzy height that I am afraid to move lest I should stumble. The flattering remarks made by Bro. Whitaker with reference to my connection with Masonry, I trust, will be" fulfilled in my future solicitude for the welfare of the Lodge over which I have been called to preside. When I look around me to-night, and see assembled here so many ladies, as well as so many non-masons, I cannot but feel that they have conferred an honour upon me, irrespective of my own brethren, in the support which they give me in the arduous task which I have this day undertaken. There is a matter to which I would like to allude this evening, and my remarks are addressed more especially to my fellow craftsmen. We have met, it is true, this evening in a very line hall, but I think it is quite time, considering that on this occa

sion there nrast be, I should estimate at least upwards of 500 guests present in this hall, that Aye had a Masonic hall of our own. At present we have no hall that we can call our own, but I trust that at the next Masonic festivity we may be in a position to boast of a hall that we may truly call our own (cheers), and that it will be available for Masous in general. This certainly has been a red letter day in the annals of Freemasonry, for we have had ample evidence to-day of the genuine brotherly love that exists in this province. (Cheers). The English, Scotch and Irish Lodges have been united here this day in the greatest harmony, and if they will only work together in the grand objects which I desire to see achieved, they can without difficalty at once proceed to build a Masonic Hall which will be worthy of them. L~i again thanking you for the kindly manner in which you have drunk my health, I may remark that there is a brother amongst us of whom I should like to say a few words. On this day he has re ceived a dignity which is co-equal with my own. 1 allude to Bro. Whitaker, R.W.P.G.M., of the Scotch Constitution. I may say that since I was a little child toddling about that his name was as familiar to me as one of the household gods (cheers). There fore it is to me a pleasant duty to invite you to drink the toast of his health. I call upon you, therefore, to drink "the health of Brother the Han. F. Whitaker, R.W.P.G.M. of the Scottish Constitution.

The toast was drunk with Macduff honours in double quick time, led by Bro. Robinson of Lodge Sir Walter Scot.

The Chairman again rose, and said: Ladies and brethren, it is now a great num ber of years since I first became a Mason, and during the whole of that time "there has never been any occasion on ■vyhich I have felt more honoured than I haveto-day. I havebeenplacedto-dayinone of the very highest positions in Freemasonry in which a man can be placed in this colony. I feel gratified that I have been chosen and elected by those amongst whom I have lived so many years, and I am sure you will all agree with me that I have reason 'to be proud of the position which I now occupy. (Cheers.) I have for many years past not done a great deal for Freemasonry, but now I am ready to promise that for the rest of my life I will render all the assistance that I can for the good of Masonry—(cheers)—and for the advancement of the interests of the craft in the North Island of New Zealand. (Cheers). lam quite aware that it is not fun to the ladies to make long speeches this evening. Just now the band struck up in the ball room outside, and I think I saw that a great many of the ladies were ready to run away from the supper table to resume the dance. I think they prefer daucipg to speeches—(laughter and cheers) —and being aware of that, and ready, as I always am, to accommodate the ladies as far as possible, I shall, therefore, cut short my speech, in order that the dance may be re sumed. Allow me to say that besides the honour my brethren have conferred upon me to-day, I have received an additional honour in having my health proposed to night in such kind terms, and for that, ladies and gentlemen, I return you my most sincere thanks. (Cheers).

After a pause, the chairman again called upon the company to charge their glasses. This having been com plied with, he said :' " The next toast that I have to propose to you is the nealth of a brother who is absent, and I am sorry he is absent on this occasion, because I am quite sure it would have given him a great deal of pleasure to be present. I have just been informed that he has expressed his regret that he could not be present this evening. You must understand, ladies especially—l am not speaking for the brethren—that there are three Constitutions, the English, the Scotch, and the Irish Constitutions, and each of these at the present time has a Grand Master; and I trust that amongst us there will be rivalry, a rivalry of virtue and friendship, a rivalry that will advance the efficiency and welfare of the Lodges, and I think if we can promote that friendly rivalry amongst us it will be of increased advautdge and benefit to Masonry. (Cheers). At all events, if I fail it shall not be my fault, but the fault of the Masters. The toast I have now to propose is that of the Grand Master of the Irish Constitution, Bro. George Patrick Pierce. The toast was drunk with three times three.

The Chairman : Bro. Pierce being absent, Bro. Doull, Grand Senior Warden of the Irish Constitution, will return thanks. Bro. Doull then rose, and said—Ladies and brethren, in the absence of the Chief Officer, Bro. George Patrick Pierce, it devolves upon me to ac knowledge the very hearty manner in which the toast of his health has been drunk. I regret very much that he is absent to-night, but I am very glad to see that we have received a challenge from our brother Constitutions. With regard to what Bro. Whitaker has said about rivalry, I hope all the rivairy that may exist in future amongst the lodges will be a rivalry directed to the advancement of the interests of the various lodges and the good of the craft generally. With these few remarks, knowing that the ladies wish to get away to the ball-room, I will conclude by returning you on behalf of Bro. Pierce, my most sincere thanks for the cordial manner in which you have drunk the toast of his health. . ' i The Chairman again called on the brethren to charge their glasses, ami said this time he must call upon them to fill up bumpers. This request having been at tended to, he said : Ladies, brethren, and gentlemen, the next toast I have to pro pose—and the ladies will be glad to hear that it is the last,—but although it is the last, it is certaiuly not the least, because to a certain extent I regard it as the toast of the evening— is that of a distinguished brother whom we have amongst us to-day. He came amongst us to-day to do the honors, and with an amount of knowledge of the mysteries of the craft far exceeding any thin °- I possess—l will not say exceeding the knowledge of all the brethren present, because I do not know. But he came amongst us to-day, and he he has enabled us to conduct the proceedings in a most satisfactory manner. When you look at that brother you will see that he has had many years experience, and though he has attained to an age very much in excess of mv own yet he is not more than two years my senior as a Mason. Yet here he is, and I am very glad that we have this opportunity of drinking his health m the manner which I am sure you will do-with the greatest possible honour. I. am told that he will have attained to the age of 74 years at one o clock this (Saturday) morning. (Cheers.) lhat he should have come all the way from West land for the purpose of assisting us in the labours of this day, I am quite sure you will a«ree with me that he deserves our heartiest thanks, and deserves also that we should fill a bumper and drink to his health with all the honours that we can confer upon him. I have now another matter, which is a personal one, to allude to. During the last two or three days my lady friends have asked me what we were going to do, and what sort of riteswe were going to perform (laughter). Beinf a very diffident man, being a very diffident brother,—(renewed laughter)—l was afraid that I might commit myself to some extent in communicating any inform ation that was asked of me, but when I see Bro. Lazar present, and remember the vast extent of his information, I think the very W thin" I can do is to introduce him to the la&and I have no doubt he will then explain the >vhole matter to them. (S-hter and cheers.) I have had ex hsetoTeOdoef S2?^eK MisonJvTwill Fallow, gratify their very

(Oh, oh, and laughter). Ido not mean to say that. I can say, however, that I have a great many lady friends in Auckland, and that during the last two or three days when I have seen them crossing over to me I have got out of the way in order to avoid their very urgent demands as to what we were going to do. (Laughter.) I felt that I was not in a position to afford that infor mation, but Bro. Lazar is here and he is a man of experience, and knows the ladies well. (Laughter.) He knows the ladies well, and what will suit them. I hive heard that only two or three years ago he and his wife, he being 74 years of age, danced three or four round dances, besides several other dances. (Cheers). Well, he possesses all the information, and knowing that he ia a ladies'' man to the backbone, I know he will tell them all they want to know. I therefore propose his health as the R.W.P.G.M. of Westland, and in proposing his health I hope he will not disappoint the expecta tions that they entertain of him. (Cheers.) The toast was drunk with full Masonic honours.

Bro. Lazar, P.W.D.G.M., of Westland, on rising to respond, was received with hearty applause. He said : Right Worship ful Provincial Grand Master, Right Wor shipful District Grand Master, ladies, and brethren, I was quite unprepared for the high honour you have conferred upon me, and the kindly manner in which the toast of my health has been dwelt upon. I may say that I believe the sentiments Avhich have been expressed emanate from the heart of the Provincial Grand Master, and it is an honour on this occasion, at which I certainly feel some pride, that so many of the fair sex are present. (Cheers.) There is only one thing in the speech of the R.W.P.G. Master that I regret, and that is that he mentioned my age. (Laughter). Whatever the ideas the ladies may have formed of me, and the expecta tions that filled their minds, I cannot but think that I have fallen at least 50 per cent in their estimation since the R. W. M. has stated my age. Providence thrust me into the world on the Ist December, 1808, at one o'clock in the morning, and that is about the time now. I think Divine Providence might have sent into the world a more worthy subject (cheers, and no, no), but you must take the a\ ill for the deed. But I think I may say that I am proud of my age because I have always enjoyed the most excellent health, and I amnoteugolistic when. I say that I believe I would not mind making a slight bet that I could walk some of the youngest. (Cheers). However, I am wandering from the subject on which I intended to speak, and that is with refer ence to a certain event that tookplace to-day. During the many years I have been in the colony I have installed all the Grand Masters in New Zealand—John H. Harri son, Dr. Donald, the late lamented Sir Donald McLean, and last, but not least, Brothers Whitaker and Graham. I am sure I have never seen so large an assembly in the colonies as I saw to-day, not even in New Zealand, but in South Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria. I assure you it was highly gratifying to me to-day wlaen I looked round this hall and saw so many of the craft assembled here. It shewed the respect and esteem which the Freemasons of Auckland entertain for the craft, and I have no doubt that they will continue to advance its interests with satis faction to themselves and their brethren throughout the world. (Cheers.) Now with reference to the ladies here. You have only to watch carefully the proceed ings of your husbands—l mean those whose husbands are Masons —you have only to watch their conduct in regard to the sacred mysteries of the craft, and you will become free and accepted Masons. (Laughter.) And I am sure with regard to those of you who have not husbands as Masons, that they ai-e like the boys who looked at the cherries and could not get them. However, there is one great characteristic of all true Masons, and that is that they are True and sincere, just to the fair, They trust us on every occasion, For no creatures can more the ladies adore Than a Free and Accepted Mason. I thank you, brothers, for the kind manner in which you have accepted the toast, and I assure you that it will nave a place in my memory that no time or circumstance can ever eradicate. (Cheers.) The signal was then given for a return to the ball-room, and in a few minutes the tables were deserted, and the merry dance was resumed. The following was the programme of dances : -- Quadrille, Galop, Waltz, Lancers, Galop, Mazurka, Quadrille, Waltz, Galop, Lancers, Mazurka. Galop, Quadrille, Waltz, Galop, Lancers, Mazurka, Waltz and Galoj). Dancing was kept up with unabated spirit and unflagging zest until the wee sma hours, when the brethren and the lady invitants wended their ways homewards, after an evening's harmless pleasure, the memory of which Avill long live as a golden landmark in the monotony of every-day existence. We must not omit to mention that Mr Stacey was the caterer for the supper, and that his skill and forethought, as well as the excellent character of the menage, was the theme of general commendation.

CONFINED IN A TRANCE.

DURING the past winter Jonas Nilson has •been employed at one of the lumbering camps, until about three weeks ago, when a portion of a tree fell on him while he was engaged at chopping in the woods, inflict ing injuries which were believed to be fatal. Nilson was carried to the camp by his com panions, and after a period tof extreme suf fering he began to fail, finally becoming unconscious and pulseless, and the pallor of death overspreading his countenance. The men at the camp naturally concluded that their unfortunate companion was doad, as no sign of life could be detected. The body of the supposed dead man was placed in the only coffin that could be procured—a long dry goods box—sent by railroad to the nearest railroad station, and thence for warded to an old personal friend of Nil son's, John Peterson, who resides near the brickyard in this city. The coffin and body, after arriving at Minneapolis, Avere con veyed to the residence of Mr Peterson, according to instructions, but were kept for two days to allow time to prepare for a decent burial. While the body was in the rude coffin tJt the residence of Mr Peterson another old friend called to see it, and gave the corpse a ,close and critical examination. Something about it produced a profound impression upon the visitor, and he suddenly looked up with a pleased but startled expression and exclaimed, "Why, Jonas Nilson is not dead !" While the majority of those present did not place much confidence in the remark, all agreed that an attempt to bring the bxly to life would not do any harm, even if it failed in accomplishing any actual good. Nilson's body was lifted from tke coffin, placed in a comfor table bed, and restoratives carefully ad ministered. Under the treatment a trace of life's healthy blood revealed itself on the pallid curface of the body, and at the end of two hours the eyes of the supposed dead man gradually opened and rested upon those present. iThe rays of re turning consciousness and intelligence were plainly discerned by the by-standers. The astonishment and joy were so great that at first no one ventured to speak to the resur rectioned lumberman, but at last one ven tured the question : • ■ Nilson t are you cold ?" Without moving Ms body, but with his eyes resting upon his interlocutor, Nilson faintly answered with the single word, "Yes." The friends then redonbled their exer tions, and a physician was summoned. Nilson was made as warm and comfortable as possible. Since the date of his resuscita tion the attention bestowed upon him has been tender and unremitting, and he is re sponding |to the friendly offices of those around him with evidence of gradual but certain improvement.

THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH AS AN AMATEUR MUSICIAN.

Al/L our readers who remember the part taken by H.R.H. the Duke of Edinburgh when in Auckland, at our Choral Society concerts, will appreciate the following jaunty remarks on the Sailor Prince made by the London correspondent of an American journal :—" The Duke of Edin burgh, far away from all the rest of his familw, has been keeping his birthday on board his own ship the Sultan. His men gave a concert by Avay of having an extra good time and celebrating their thirty-third natah day, and the Duke played first violin on the occasion. He is great at this instrument, has performed at several concerts at the Royal Albert Hall here, is a bit of a composer {as his father Avas), and has also, it is said, at times played the violin aboard his ship for the sailors to dance to. His performances at public concerts have certainly had one Avholesome effect. It has made a good many people, who were well able, take an active part in musical entertainments; and so make themselves of use, and aid the cause of rational amusements. For the million feel ashamed of their paltry fears lest by publicly performing they should imperil their dignity. The Prince, Avho, according to the strict code of eti quette, has ever so much more dignity than these smaller sticklers to lose, does not, hoAvever, seem to consider his coming in contact with professional performers and untitled amateurs, and having to make his boAv to a mixed audience, to be anything of a degradation. And, indeed, why should he ? Still he might do so, and so might almost any other royal personage in Eu rope, save, peihaps, Ludwig, King of Ba- A'aria.^ If all the stories about the sailor Duke's monetary meanness are true, one certainlycannotadmirethat side of theman's character; but this willingness of his to take a Avorking part, like any good-natured commoner, in a rational entertainment, especially so elevating a thing as a musical soiree, redounds greatly to his credit. I was told by a lady amateur singer Avho also assisted at the last Albert Hall concert, at Avhich the Royal Duke played first violin, and Avho sat very near him, that during the pauses between their OAvn particular pieces he Avas indulging in a quiet flirtation Avith the first soprano singer. Only fancy lioav delightful ! Afar off, whence sho could not get at him, of course, was seated the Duchess herself and her suite ; doubtless in that box, the royal one, everything Avas as grand and stately as could be.' Yet, cannot you fancy how much pleasanter it must haA re been, and how much more the royal tar must have enjoyed himself, sitting all among the jollier amateurs and professionals, and having a snug little flirtation almost in the very teeth, though out of the hearing of his wife ? There must, too, have been quite a delicious spice of danger in it, especially for the fair prima donna, the first soprano; and not yet too much danger either, since in this land of liberty she could only indulge in the charming little amusement without dread of future retributory knout or banishment to Siberia. Therefore she no doubt, was well content, in exchange for innocent fun and laughter, to run no worse risk than a possible scratched face.

CORRESPONDENCE.

Ix order to bring up a large accumulation of arrears, we are compelled to condense corres pondents letters. W. B. Sadler complains that in the General Assembly steamships of 3000 or 4000 tons are called boats," and that in Auckland the words "sculling" and "rowing" are strangely confounded.

"An Observer" writes with reference to recent wars and disturbances, which he thinks indicate that the powers of evil are making a last desperate effort to overcomo good, and that the prophecy that some will give heed to seduc ing spirits and doctrines of devils is in process of fulfilment. He bewails the interest lately manifested in the recent Freethought lectures. " The People's Friend's" letter is inadmissable, as he has not forwarded hia name.

MrT. K. Hannaford complains that the city scavengers refuse to remove decayed fruit put out of his shop, and asks what he is to do with it. On inquiry, we learn that the city scavengers are instructed Eto remove only dust and the sweepings of shops. T.B.H. had better dig a hole and bury the refuse fruit, or carry it away to some dung heap. "Shareholder" asks whether or not there is such a claim at Coromandel b.s the " Corby View." No: the correct name is the " Corby," late Snowden's.

"M.D., Onehuriga," desires a recipe for preserving green peas for winter use. We have not been able to find any recipe of the kind, but if the process is practicable perhaps some of our readers will kindly supply the desired information.

"A Subscriber" asks if there are any, and what restrictions against fly fishing in any of rivers of the province of Auckland. There if nothing to prevent! " Subscriber" fly fishing in any of the rivers of the provinces provided that no one can fish in any streams that have been proclaimed by the Governor under " The Salmon and Trout Act, 18G7," as streams in which young salmon or salmon trout, &c. have been placed for breeding purposes. Soe regulations published in Government Gazette of date Sept. 6, 1877. We believe that the Waikato and its tributaries have been or shortly will be proclaimed under the above Act. f The penalty for breach of regulations is any sum not exceeding £100. " A Competitor " complains that the Board of Education has not kept faith in distributing the £10, voted by way of prizes to the writers of the best essays on any of Mr Severn's lectures, only the first three competitors having been awarded prizas. " Competitor" states that sorae o.£ the scholars devoted considerable time to the preparation of essays, of which nothing has been heard.

" J." writes that he has looked through the A.rmy List and list of retired Majors, but fails to find the name of Major iAtkinspn. i." J." wants to know what regiment the Major served in, and where he won his spurs. We believe Maior Atkinson's military achievements were confined to the command of a Militia Company at Taranaki. He was subsequently Defence Minister in the Weld Ministry.

THE FEAR OF TORPEDOES.

The naval correspondent of the " Daily Telegraph," in letter under date Baljik, July 12, says:—As regards the strength of Sebastopol as a sea fortress it is of no very great consequence, and I would guarantee to run into the harbour, with a few power ful ironclads, with trifling loss ; but there is a far more serious consideration than double-banked forts, earth batteries, and 25-ton guns—the ghastly torpedo, with its known power but unknown position, has to be reckoned. These hidden infernal machines are enough to make stout hearts .hesitate that would welcome the open and above-board action of artillery, and enjoy a good give-and-take fight. I hope I am no croaker, but I do fear that the enterprise of naval commanders will be paralysed, as most surely the chivalry of naval warfare will depart, unless some means of counter acting or destroying torpedoes is recognised. For this end the greatest maritime nation in the world, whose aggressive warfare is mainly confined to her fleets, and whose most brilliant pages of history are to be found in the chivalrous daring and enterprise of her naval commanders, must spare neither money nor science. My opinion is that marine warfare will become in time a matter of speed and torpedoes—that the great iron armaments of to-day will be as useless as our grand old " wooden walls " of twenty years ago ; and, though it will always be necessary for England to have powerful floating batteries for her first line of defence, they will have to be— ridiculous as it may sotmc^—under the convoy of torpedo-craft.

JENNY LIND AS SHE As.

APROPOS of Jenny Lind, writes Mrs Hooker from Rails, I recently Bad a long and interesting conversation respecting her with a lady who has often met her in musical circles in England, and has heard her sing. Though every vestige of the once glorious voice (and how glorious it was we middle-aged lovers of music can well re member) has long since departed, the peer less method and exquisite finish of her style still reveal some of the marvelous qualities that made Jenny Lind the greatest singer' of her day and generation. Her hair is well nigh snow while, but the kindly, intelligent features still preserve a strong resemblance to the portraits and busts that taken of her in the heyday of her career, now well nigh thirty years ago. She left the stage, it is said, not

from any religious prejudices, as has often been stated, but because the excitement of acting never failed to bring on an excruciat ing nervious headache, which left her prostrate for the whole1 of the suceeding day. She still suffers extremely from nervousness,, and her otherwise happy and tranquil existence is embittered by the recollection of one deeply regretted1 action of her {jlife—her retirement while still in full possession of her unrivaled voice. She knows now what she then relinquished; but no regrets can call back the years that might have given her added fame and for tune, and brought her the delight of en chanting thousands by the witchery of her song. She has but little admiration for the singers of the day.

M T KeanG ' °f the Thistle Hotel, yesterday opened a new billiard saloon at his com modious hostelry. The hotel will now have two of the finest billiard rooms in the city. The table, which has been fitted up in the new room, is one of Alcock's best, and from the appearance of it, we should take it to be a very expensive one. Mr Keane has adopted a novel method of advertising his additional attraction. All the afternoon a man was to be seen parading Queen-street with a bright-coloured umbrella, on which was inscribed: "Handsome Exhibition Billiard Table at the Thistle Hotel. Go and see it." Very few passers-by omitted to read the words.

A Practical Joker Cured. —" The Tattler" ia the " Pictorial World" gives the following:—l am sure everybody must be grieved to hear of the death of Mr. Ward Hunt ; he was such a manly, honest Eng lish gentleman, and the species is very rare indeed nowadays. Did you ever hear the story of thedittle " mid" and the First Lord? Once upon a time,|a midshipman on H.M.S. , at Plymouth, discovered a stout gentleman making his way from the dock side on to the deck. Excepting the officer of the watch, there was hardly anyone else on board but tbe youthful officer, for the ship had. only just come in from abroad. The visitor desired to be shown over the ironclad, and the knowing " mid" immediately went in for a lark. He informed the gentleman how the capstan was used to grind the ship's coffee : he also told him how the ward-room officers always used the 18-ton guns for wine coolers to ice their champagne in, and he likewise made him acquanted with the fact that it was only the admiral in command who was al lowed to dry his Sunday shirts on the main yards. The visitor listened to this with a bland and simple smile ; but, on taking his leave, he said, "Young gentleman, you are a very smart youth indeed, and full of very curious information, and I hope that you will see that there is no mistake in this card of mine finding its way to your cap tain." The youth took the small bit of pasteboard, and, reading the name " Ward Hunt, " suddenly discovered the awfulness of his situation. However, the First Lord only treated him to another pleasant smile and then departed. ' That young gentlemen has never played practical jokes since that time.

THE EVENING STAR URDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1877.

3



BRETT'S AUCKLAND ALMANAC, AND PROVINCIAL HANDBOOK FOR 1878. figjSF* The Publisher, in announcing the »s!3§? Sixth Issue of this work, has much confidence in commending it as an INVALU ABLE ADVERTISING MEDIUM. The Book is widely circulated in all parts of New Zealand and neighbouring Colonies: is placed in the leading English and Colonial Libraries; at the Chief Stations on the Pacific Railway, for the use of Travellers to and from the Colonies; and in other important positions, to secure publicity within and beyond New Zealand. We claim, however, for it the greatest: value to lo^l business men as a Permanent Work of Reference, which finds it way into the home of nearly every settler in the Province, and is consulted almost daily throughout the year. It may be submitted with some degree of confi dence that the importance to commercial men of being represen tedin a book of this kind can not be over-estimated. A further reason which might be urged why such a work should receive support from everyi one interested in the "welfare of Auckland, is the practical benefit conferred upon the City and Province by the annual publication of a book setting forth, in an interesting form, the capabilities of this part of the Colony; its his tory, description of country settlements, roads and other means of access, cost of carriage, and the mass of other information, revised to latest date every year. The Book—which is the Largest Publication ever offered for a Shilling in New Zealand—must depend almost wholly upon Advertisements to defray the heavy cost; and as every business man is in terested in its success, favourable attention to its claims is solicited with some degree of assurance that they will receive this year, as heretofore, a cordial recognition. FTIHE ALMANAC AND TTANDBOOK OF 1878 Will be far in advance of any ®f its predeces sors ; the whole o£ its contents new, written specially, and of a more than ordinary in structive character. The Work will be Issued at the Old Price : ONE SHILLING. aar Terms for Advertising:— One Page 2 0 0 Half-Page 15 0 Quarter-Page 0 15 0 Card 0 10 0 " Evening Star" Office, October 10th, 1877. /QUICK'S LIVERY & BAIT STABLES \o& VICTORIA-STREET, Auckland. For Hire: Open and Close Carriages Buggies, of every description Wagonettes, Breaks, and Omnibusses Ladies' and Gentlemen's Saddle Horses Hearse and Mourning Coaches. Charges Very Moderate, 'BUSSES leave Union Bank for Ponsonby and Newton every twenty minutes, from 8 a.m. till 7 p.m. A Night 'Bus at 9, 10, and also at 11 if required. On Saturday night, every half-hour, from 8 till 11. Fares— Sixpence. The MOUNT ALBERT and WHAU 'BUS leaves the Whau Hotel daily for town at 8.30 a.m. and 3 p.m., leaving the Union Brnk for Mount Albert and Whau at 12 noon and 5 p.m.; except on Saturdays, when it leaves the Whau at 8.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m., and the Uuion Bank at 2 and 10.30 p.m. Fares—One Shilling. S&.OPEN ALL N I & H T. U Groom in Constant Attendance. -ftTEW ZEALAND GENERAL COM -131 MISSION AGENCY, Norgrove Buildings, Clark's Place, BISHOPSGATE-STREET, WITHIN. CAPTAIN ASHBY, late Marine Superinten dent in London of the New Zealand Shipping Company, and for about 20 years known in con nection with the. New Zealand Shipping Trade desires to inform his frinds and the public, generally that he has commenced business at the above address, under the style of WILLIAM ASHBY & CO., as General Shipping and Insurance Agents. From long experience acquired of the ocal wants of the Colony, and the London Markets, the firm are in a position to ofter special advantages to Colonists in their business relations with Great Britain, and from their intimate knowledge of the requirements of passengers on a long voyage, orders entrusted to their care will receive their very best atten tion. London. November 16. 1876. KA IP A R jF*R A I SSL WAY To ensure dispatch, all Goods for the Kaipara District should be received at Riverhead by the Railway at least forty-eight hours before the departure of the steamer from Helensyille. If Consignees would kindly insist on this being done, much disappointment would be saved them. A. V. MACDONALD, General Manager



UTCH VyHEESE. JUST LANDED, Ex ' Otaki,' TW E N T^Y -FIVE CASES OF PRIME DUTCH CHEESE. Also, SINCLAIR'S PRIME^BfELFAST BACON. i TCI TXEWIN & TVEtOTHER, PROVISION FACTORS, THE JL POT. QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND. "OOUYER, GCTILLET & COT COGNAC. TRADE "^^^^^ MARK. [[ESTABLISHED IN 1800]. MESSRS. LEWIS BROTHERS, AUCKLAND, Have secured the AGENCY for this Celebrated BRANDY, so justly considered the finest made. They have always on hand Hdds.,aQuarter casks. Cases, and Imperial flaalta.; J>ISQUIT, DUBOUCHE, & CO [Established 1819.] SHIPPERS OF BRANDY COGNAC IN TJtUJS., QK.-CASKS, CASES, & FLASKS. 133 l Sole Agentin Auckland:— L. D. NATHAN & CO. T ARGE QjHIPMENTS OF SPRING AND SUMMER GOODS Now to Hand :— Paris Millinery r-T Fancy Dress ! Goods Feathers r-j Black & Cold Flowers Silks K-i . Prints Ribbons -r* Muslins Kerchiefs <O Mourning Ma terials Fichus .. . HI p Paletots *h o a -•• Costumed S Manchester Goods Parachutes = Qa of every des bows t3 i cription. O Kr W Gloves r^-A , i ■* Hosiery "^j op Tweeds Corsets Shirts r-i ? Ties Underclothing r""V Collars Baby Linen \^- Handkerchiefs Hosiery Frocks Straw Hats Tunics — (:)— hH The above in Pelisses both Cloaks jeiq Boys' & Men's. MILLINERY, DRESS, & MANTLEMAKING in all their Branches, conducted on theemCPrises 1 JMILLINBRY ! jML-^LINERY !j! MRS. BUTTERWORTH, MILLINER, Wishes to inform the Ladies of Auckland, and her country friends, that she is Now Showing a Large Assortment of New Millinery in great variety. TRIMMED HATS, FROM 1/11. LADIES' COSTUMES, FROM 5/11. CHILDREN'S COSTUMES, RD3BONS, FEATHERS, FLOWERS, &c ]VErs. Butter worth, PS LONDON & PARIS PATTERN DEPOT^gg MDLLINERY DRAPERY, AND UNDER CLOTHING ESTABLISHMENT. Paper Patterns of Every Description. QUEE N~^ TREET, Auckland. GEOKGE COOK'S 'BUSSES Trom opposite Coombt?£'s. IV.VBBK, Pass and Newmakket, Daily at 9.15 a.m. 9.15 a.m. 10.45 a.m- 11.15 a.m. 12.16 p.m. 12.45 p.m. 1.45 p.m. . 2.15 p.m. 3.15 p.m. r 3.45 p.m. 4.45 p.m. 5.15 p.m. 6.15 p.m. 6.45 p.m. Leaves Newmarket: 10 a.m. 10.30 a.m. 11.30 a.m. 12 noon. 1 p.m. 1.30 p.m. 2.30 p.m. 3 p.m. i p.m. 4.30 p.m. 5.30 p.m. 6 p.Jio. 7 p.m. 7.30 p.m. Saturday evening: 8, 8.30, 9, 9.30, 10, 10.80, 11.. GEORGE COOK, Wakefleld-^treet.



<"FIHE UNDERSIGNED JL — HAVE ON SALE — PORT—Superior Old' fied, in wood and bottle SHERRY—Superior qualities and brands' bottlea and in butts, hhds., qr.-casks, and octaves MADEIRA—Carni di Lobas, from th& vineyard of Baron do C'onceisas BRANDY—Hennessy's and Martell's, in wood and case. Also* fine old Vintages for privat families. Burgaud's, in bulk; Exshaws, Tricoche, and Rowlatt Freres, in cases W.I. RUM—3O a.p., in hhds. and qr.-casks , WHlSKY—Dunville'3, Greenless and Colville's, Sherrift's Islay, John Fraser's Brackla, Long John, and Jameson's in bulk, and Lome's Highland. Dunville's, and Stewart's in cases OLD TOM—Browning's, in bulk; Booth's, Bur nett's and Bernard's, in case SCHNAPPS—UdoIpho Wolfe and Co.'s and Henke's quarts and pints GENEVA—John de Kuyper and Son's Anchor Brand, in green and red cases; J. H. Henke's Hollands, in stone jars and glass bottles, and Cologne^ G-in GINGER "Vv'lNE—ln qr.-casks and cases CLARET—Medoc, Chateau, Margeaux, St. Jtilien, etc. CORDIALS, &c—Maraschino Curacoa, orange and white, and Sarsaparilla BlTTEßS—Seiner's, Angostura, Orange, and Pomeranzen CHAMPAGNE—CIiquot's, Perrier Jouet's Moet's, Collin's, De Lossy's and Roederers, SPARKLING MOSELLE —Dienhard's quarts and pints COLONIAL WlNE.—Malbee, Burgundy, Ver deilho, Reisling Hermitage, and Lindeman's Cawarra Hock and Claret, Ist growth BOTTLED ALE—Bass's, Devenish, Tennent's, AUsopp's, and Ir.d Coope's BULK ALK—Mnrrian's No. 31and 4,' in barrels BOTTLED STOUT—Blood's, and Guinness's G-ROCERlTSS—Comprising Belmont, Ozokerit, FieJ.fi* *^d Taylor's Patent Ends Candles, Cru3i>oo Loaf Sugar, Saltpetre, &c. RECKITi' & SON'S FRENCH BLUE TEAS and SUGARS PALE ENGLISH MALT VlNEGAß—Champion's No. 24, in half-hhds and cases. CHAMPION'S Champion Mustard CIGARS—No. 2 H. S., in 500 boxes. LaCaoba, Albeurne, Aquilla de Oro, Alonzo Careche Sir Robert Peel, Flor de Solor, Erotays, and TOBACCO—Venus, Lord High Admiral, Hud son. Raglan, and Le Grand, and Derby PAlNTS—Carson's Anticorrosion, red and stone colour; Blundell, Spence & Co.'s Genuine Ground and Nos. 1 and 2 White Lead, Red Lead, White Zinc, Mid SBrunswick Green and Yellow Paints, Patent Driers, &c. OILS —Raw and Boiled Linseed, in drums and barrels; Colza, in drunw; and Downer's Kerosene VARNISHES—NobIe's and Hoare's OAK VARNlSH—Blundell, Spence & Co.'s, in cases containing 16 1-gaJlon tins Hendry Whyto and Strachan's Celebrated FLOOR-CLOTHS, various patterns and widths OKDAGE—Europe, SManila, Bolt Rope, and Galvanized Wire Rope COMPOSITION NAILS for Muntz Metal CORRUGATED GALVANIS. ID IRON—More wood & Rogers', and Gospe Oak, 7, 8, and 9 ft. lengths SHEET ZINC, Nos. 10,11,12, and U 6Rs. SHEET LEAD BUTT BOLTS, grooved points PLANING, SHAPING, and DRILLING MA CHINES POWER GEARED SCREW CUTTING GAP LATHES, 15, and 26 ft. beds One three hundred weight STEAM HAMMER. 3. 0. & Co. haw. now adopted the method followed by Hie large London Souses of VATTIN& their WINES and SPIEITS, this having been found to secure the delivery of a higher standard of quality than otherwise obtainable. Original packages delivered from Bond as heretofore when required. NDKNTS EXEOTTEDFOR ALL KINDS OB1 GOODS BROWN, CAMPBELL & CO, HASHTON & SON, ffl HOUSE, LAND. AND ESTATE AGENTS, 8, New Zealand Insurance Buildings, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND. FOR SALE. HEPBURN-STREET.—A substantially-built Seven-roomed Verandah Cottage, with outer Kitchen, Store-room, Tanks, Garden, and every convenience for a family; allotment 36 feet frontage by 119 feet deep. - This House is fur nished, and the owner is desirous of selling louse and Furniture together as it stands. Further particulars can be obtained upon appli cation to H. Ashton and Son. RICHMOND.—A neat Four-roomed Verandah Cottage, with out-buildings, and about 3 acres of land. The Cottage is well finished, and in good order, with nice garden; about half-an iout's walk from town. ELLIOTT & ALBERT-STREETS.—A Free hold Property, having a frontage of 30 feet each to Elliott and AlberS-streets, with a depth of 214 feet, with Cottages erected thereon, now bringing in a large rental. A good investment, in the heart of the city. EPSOM.—A nine-roomed Family Residence with garden, out-buildings, &c, situated on the road to Onehunga. The Housejs well built and finished, and is m excellent order, and contains Drawing-room, Dining-room, Bed-rooms, Bath room, Kitchen, with cooking-range ancl^back Kitchen. GREAT SOUTH ROAD.—7-roomed Verandah Cottage, with an acre of land in grass. PONSONBY ROAD. — Six-roomed Cottage, with out-buildings, large garden, and paddock. NORTH SHORE—3I acres of Land on the Toad to the Lake, in one or more lots. NORTH SHORE—Land at Hellger's Creek, with large water frontage. Several Allotments in City and Suburbs. TO BE LET :— BRIGHTON.-A 7-roomed Cottage,Jßrighton Road, next door to the residence of ±4. Wood, Esq. NORTH SHORE.—Two comfortable Family Residences, adjoining the Flagstaff Hotel, North Shore. Lately put in complete repair. CROSS-STREET, NEWTON. —Two Four roomed Cottages. QUEEN-STREET. — Large Store adioining Messrs. Arnold Hines & Co., three stories and " cellar, suitable for wholesale business. GREAT SOUTH ROAD.—Seven-roomed Cot tage with Verandah, an acre of land attached, situated near Junction Hotel. CUSTOM-HOUSE-STREET.—Large and com modious Stores in Custom-house-street. The Cellars have been asphalted, and are dry and rat-proof. Several Small Properties in Town and Country both for sale and to let. H. ASHTON & SON, House, Land, and Estate Agents, No 8. New^Zealand Insurance Buildings. XT A MIL TON, WAIKATO. • SANDES~& CO., CHEMISTS AND DRUGGISTS,. Hava always on Stock a complete assortment of Drugs, Chemicals, Perfumery, Toilet Requisites, ■ Horse and Cattle Medicines, &c, &c, &c. Stationery, Tobacco, Cut Tobacco, Fancy Goods, &c, in endless variety. • igr Agent: Auckland Evendts Star. EDWIN AUG ER, BOOTMAKER. • Has Removed to his New Premises, adioining Mr. Tomlinson's, Draper. ENGLISH AND ~3~ FIRST-CLASS Colonial-made esngg™ Workmanship BOOTS & SHOES PWI In every Branch at Lowest ™- *'' ■ v of Auckland Prices! "—^^ TH c Tba dc. *** Stationery Department.—ln future a General Assortment of Stationery Goods will be kept. Agent for the Evening Star. E AUGER, PARNELL. CHRISTMAS , "XTEW YEAR'S. PRESENTS! J3I GIFTS! NOW ON VIEW AT EDWAIiD WAYTE'S, 100, QUEEN-STREET. THE LARGEST AND MOST CAREFULLY: SELECTED STOCKS EVER OPENED IN AUCKLAND, comprising— Christmas Stationery School Rewards and Books for Pre sentation , ' ■. . . Writing Desks Photographic Albums Scrap Albums Leather Tourist Cases Inkstands Purses ■• .1 Card Cases, &c, &c, &0., NOW ON VIEW, , AT EDWARD WAYTE'S, QUEEN-STREBT BE E H I V E. SHORTLAND-STREET. MELBfIUM & SON, Tailors and ■vat- Bootmakers, in thanking their cus f'"®TSh tomers for past favours, informs them g W and the public that they have Removed ■«SB3f to the BEEHIVE, as above. Best Material used. Good Fit Warranted* Reasonable Prices. — M.ELDRUM & OON, SHORTI^Q-STBEES