SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

tttp it TV- _t„ r> ' This Afternoon, 11.15 HIGH T\ATER- lTo . morrow Mornil _ g> IL3S SUN SET.—This Evening. 6.48. SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning. 5.41 MOON'S AGE.—First Quarter, 21st, 3.51 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Mary Anderson, schooner (new), M. McKenzie,

from Waipu. Southern Cross, s.s.. Holmes, from Napier, Ada Thames.

DEPARTURES.

Wanaka, s.s.. Malcolm, for Tauranga and Southern ports. According to a cablegram received by Messrs Henderson and Macfarlane, the s.s. Rotorua arrived in Sydney on Saturday night, after a tine run of 4 days 13 hours. She 'is advertised to leave for this port to-morroAV, andmay be looked for about Monday next.

The schooner Atlantic sails for the Thames to load timber at tho Hanraki mills for Lyttelton. Tho s.s. Southern Cross arrived last night from Napier Ada tho Thames. Arhero she landed 500 sheep. She has made a fine weather trip. Last night she was laid up on the hard to have her bottom seen to.

The schooner Kenllworth has been chartered by Mr E. G. Smith to load coke for Lyttelton. Tho schooner Orpheus cleared out to-day for Napier, via Mercury Bay. She Avill take in a load oi timber at the latter place. The new schooner Mary Anderson, built at "v\ aipn for Captain H. F. Anderson, arrived in port this morning. She has been finished some weeks, and it was thought she would be up to take part in the regatta, but some difficulty was experienced in getting her into tlie water, and she was only completely launched a few days ago. Wo must hold over our description till to-morrow.

A telegram from the Spit (Napier) to-day states that the Jane Douglas leaves there for Auckland, via Poverty Bay, on Saturday after noon, the 21th.

COMMERCIAL.

Messrs B. Tonics & Co. held a sale of Fiji sugars and oilmen's stores to-day. There Avas a fair attendance of the trade. Sugars realised from £24 to £29. The general goods, groceries, and tobacens, fetched good prices.

Mr R. Arthur sold the furniture and effects of Mr James Young, consisting of drawing and dining-room suites. The handsome pianoforte (Collard's) went remarkably cheap, at little more than half the original cost. The s s Elsie, built by Mr Carr, was not sold. Messrs M. Jones and Co's sale of produce, poultry, etc., AA-as but thinly attended, and most of the furniture was held OA rer until Friday. Mr Geo. W. Binney offered for sale to day certain properties in the trust estate of Messrs Rollerson and Carlaw, Avitli the fol loAA-ing results: —Part of allotment in Nelson-street as previously described, subject to a mortgage to Building Society AA.iich agreed to take £102 cash or by usual instalments £216' 17s Sd, from which, bidding commenced, and realised £100; bakers utensils fetched £4 10s, and a quantity of firewood 7s 6d per ton. One horse and cart sold for £23, and the other for £1S 10s. The book debts were not sold.

BIRTH.

PEARCE.-On the ISth February, at the Royal _dail Hotel, Victoria-street, Auckland, the Avife of W. 11. Pearce of a son.

LOCKSTONE.—On the 19th inst., at her father's residence. Parnell, the Avife of Mr. E. S. Lock stone, of Christchurch, of a daughter.

MARRIAGE.

HUNTER—SINCLAIR.—At the, residence of the bride's lather, Gloucester-street, NeAVton, by the Lev. 11. F. Macnicol, Andrew l.atcliu Hn liter, to Christina, eldest daughter of -Mr. John Sinclair.

DEATH.

JOHNSON.—On the 20th February, at her parents' residence, Ella, youngest daughter or' Joseph and Lucy Johnson, aged 15 months. Tlie funeral Avill take place to-morrow at 2.30 p.m.

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

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 1877.

For tlie <•-_._ that lacks assistance^ For tlie wrong that needs r .-sistance, For the future >:i tho distance, And the good Uiat we can do.

Those even avlio differ from Sir George Grey on political grounds, cannot deny that by his farsighted and philanthropic policy he established many valuable institutions, and made provision for their permanent maintenance, it is certainly a matter of regret that, from various causes Avhich lie could not forsee, many of the endowi.ionts set apart for educational and charitable purposes have been diverted from the original objects, and devoted to uses foreign to the intentions of the founder. Sir George Grey's philanthropic efforts have hitherto been ignored with a degree of ingratitude and narrow - mindedness which could scarcely linda parallel in any other country. The haste to get rich Avhich distinguishes all purely colonial communities, and the rough work of colonization have thrust out of sight those grand and lasting benevolent enterprises Avhich engage the attention and attract tlie wealth of philanthropists in older and more settled communities. We do not mean that tlie people of Ncav Zealand arc as a body less open to the appeals of charity than any others, or that less regard is paid here than elscAA-iere to the claims of the needy and unfortunate, but from the nature of sur rounding circumstances avc have not yet developed that comprehensive spirit of systematic philanthropy which lias dis tinguished our forefathers, partly, perhaps, because iv the midst of prosperous times, easy money-getting, and a comparatively comfortable population, i\w necessity for founding educational and charitable institutions on a wider basis, does not become pressed upon, public at tention. Moreover, here in the North tlie people have been unjustly de prived of their share of that wealth which avus and ought to be the common property of all, and an iniquitous monopoly of which has enabled Southern communities to found local institutions and set aside con siderable endowments for their perma nent maintenance. Sir George Grey clearly foresaw that a time would come' when the rough wear and tear of colonization, and the social misfortunes from Avhich neither the highest nor tlie loAvest enjoy any special immunity, would develop ;i class for whom provision would have to be made, and that the demands for educational training Avould grow with the increase of population ; and very wisely he set apart out of the public estate —then comparatively valueless —religious, chari table, and educational endowments, which, in process of time, would become enor mously valuable and would realise large annual profits. This was the policy of a ! far-sec.' 11 * au^ large-hearted man, and posterity w_i« ;'™tefuily acknowledge that it was well and w.-^ d°? c- 3 r .0r 1 was that policy confined *fo _..ew --%„; During his governorship of r_„__rar! a» Sir _ George Grey founded many public institutions, Avhose value lias only recently been fully appreciated. Take, for example the native hospital at King Williamstown. In 1556 the aboriginals of of Cape Colony Avere \_ctims to a system of gross and debasing superstition. Like the Maoris they Avere linn believers in the potency of witchcraft, and all sickness was attributed to this mysterious influence. The ' people Avere preyed upon by a horde of, so-called doctors, who pretended to possess various supernatural gifts, much after the style of the Maori "tohunga," and that class of empirical priests common to all bar barous nations. These Kaffir doctors exer cised a most arbitrary and baneful sway over the lives, and properties, and con sciences, of an ignorant people. Whenever a .person fell sick, the services of the witch doctor Avere culled into requisition, it being his peculiar province to discover by tlie process of "smelling out" the suspected

author of the infliction. Then followed tribal degradation., deprivation of property qv death, by avi.h slow pd.hQrrihlc tQitwr^

a* stinging to death by the large and tierce ants, Avhich arc found in that Colony, A-aricd by roasting over slow fires, or any other form of agonised deatli that fiendish ingenuity could invent. It was, in fact, the lowest type of that ferocity and blood thirstiness which has disgraced ..humanity at various periods in history, in the Canaanitish sacrifices, in the Pagan offer ings, the sanginuary conllicts of the Roman amphitheatre, the Druiclical sacrifices, the AA'ild Bacchanalian orgies of the Vikings, later on in the Cotton Mather executions, and later still in the atrocities of the Indian Mutiny. But tlie Kaffir witch doctors exercised a Avider and more danger ous inllucnce by frequently inciting- the people to Avar, and they wore thus a formidable obstacle to the missionary and the colonist. Sir George Grey s;uy all this ami devised means to reform them. Tliere avus then no European practitioner Avithin SO miles of King WilliamstOAVii. Sir George set about the establishment of a hospital ! at which native students were to he trained in medicine ami surgery, the quack native doctors to bo driven from their stronghold by modern science, and the minds of the natives disabused of super stition. These pupils, after a course ol training, would become tlie most poAVCfful exponents, of the new creed of science amongst their conn try men ; they Avould be qualified to grapple with the false doctors, to expose their pretensions, and to open the native mind to appreciate tlie beneficent aims of civilization. In these hopes Sir Ceorgc Orey lias not been disappointed. Since the scheme avus established, over h'o,ooo natiA-S have been attended at the hospital, the prejudices of the people have been broken doAvn, they have become reconciled to medical science, and many obstacles to the growth of coloniza tion and the amelioration of the natives have been peaceably removed. The Cape journals have recently acknoAvlcdgcd the tleep and lasting obligations Avhich South Attica owes to tlie far-sighted and philan trophic efforts of Sir George Grey, and this is doubtless only an earnest of the gratitude which future generations in this and the neighbouring colonies Avill gladly render to one of the wisest of Britain's colonial Governors.

The telegraph is responsible for a good many absurdities, but probably none that has over come to us through that expensive channel can claim precedence over the Cress Agency despatch from Dunedin, suggesting LoAver California a. an Alsatia for political malcontents. AMr Thomas Rcdmayne lias written to Mr MacundreAv, the late Superintendent of Otago, informing him that "in anticipation of the present political troubles, I avus requested before lea\'ing Otago to look out for a suitable place to move to, for Avhich purpose I have during the last lavo years been on the look out, ami visited various parts of California." At length, he goes on to say, he lias discovered the desired earthly paradise in Lower Cali fornia, under the enlightened and liberal rule of the Mexican Goa eminent. Now thai Mr MacandreAv's strenuous exertions on behalf of the pioneer settlers of Otago have been unsuccessful, Mr Uodinaync sug gests this country which " possesses more advantages than my most sanguine imagin ation could have expected" as a resort Avhere again might be built up a new Dunedin, and where the free flag of pro vincialism could be floated over 200,000 acres of land "free from taxes, and import and export duties for ten years," except, indeed, such, as may he levied by desperadoes and revolutionary ruffians, whose existence Mr Red may no, singular to relate, ignores. At the date of latest advices from San Diego, via San Francisco, some notorious bandit, Avas exercising despotic sway over the terror-stricken settlers of Lower California, and levying black mail Avith impunity, while the Government troops had their hands full with the revolutionists Avho Avere beseiging and faking in succession the leading cities of the unhappy Republic. The intro duction of provincialism into the excited politics of Mexico might perhaps supply the happy solution of Iter sorrows, but Aye doubt whether Mr Rcdmayne will be suc cessful in convincing the canny settlers of Otago that tho "political troubles" and centralising tyranny of this colony iias yet attained the respectable proportions of a/fairs of the kind developed under the liberal Mexican < ioverinnent. We do not say Avhat things may come to if the reckless defiance of law to which we have been treated by the law-makers during the last feAV years goes on, but at present Aye are disposed to think that the majority of colonists would have been content to await the joyful intelligence of Mr Kedmayne's discovery by mail, instead of sending it "collect" by telegraph to suffering newspapers.

'i 1'!!-: curiosities and peculiarities of the laws affecting debtors ami creditors and the results of their working might form the subjects of many amusing chapters, more pleasant, perhaps, to the reader than to the actors. Notwithstanding the annual sessional tinkering at the Bankruptcy Acts, there are still in numerable loopholes and inconsistencies, which involve the working of the Jaw in an endless maze, ami drop on those Avho attempt the task with unexpected penalties. Even Sheriffs and such high minions of the legal machinery are not always safe. An example of this kind—one among many —Avill prove interesting. Last week an execution avus taken out against an impervious debtortosatisfya judgment. Tlie Sheriff proceeded with his business, and entered into possession. Thereupon were made promises of immediate settlement, destined however never to be realised in cash. More vigorous steps were then taken, and instructions given to an •auctioneer to sell the goods. The sale Avas announced, when Avithin an hour of its commencement tlie debtor went up and filed his schedule. The estate, of course, immediately became A'ested in the Registrar, as interim trustee, who authorised tiie Accountant in Bank ruptcy to take immediate possession. This Avas done, and the bailiff forthwith cleared out, thus depriving the execution creditor of the fruits of his legal processes, , and leaving him with a bill of costs amount ing to about £1). It is of course necessary that the interests of the body of creditors should be protected against the satisfaction in full of any individual claim Avhen an estate is insolvent, but a creditor has reason to feel aggrieved at being saddled with unavoidable costs incurred Avith the object of bringing a debtor to his bearings, The costs in such cases should clearly become a liability on the estate—one of the necessary charges of the bankruptcy. The matter is one to which those members of +he House of Representatives who claim co] ill" ."^ Sllbiects as their peculiar sphere ' \' v' ''""" j.: v „ '' -dd apply their attention. and occupation sliou. ** -

As Avill be seen by reference to another column, Mr. J. A. Lowe, the travelling agent for tho Mutual Life Association of Australasia, is in Auckland, hmdng just arrived from Sydney to push the interests of his office in this colony. The special fea tures offered by the Mutual Life Associa tion are :—Loav rates of premiums, policies issued Avithout hampering conditions of any kind, and the admission of age on the policy, a matter of great moment to the assurer. The Association lias had great success in Australia, and avc have no doubt that the special features advanced by it Avill soon render it an equal favourite in Ncav Zealand. Mr William T. J. Bell is appoin ted general agent.

The treasurer for the Home for Neglected and Destitute Children begs to acknowledge with thanks receipt of the folloAving sums : From Cruickshank and Co., as agents for the Hero, on account of Ncav Year's trip, £14 fid; W. Rattray, Esq., amount of sub scriptions collected by Miss Crago, in the Utaliuhu district, £G 10s 6'd.

Mr John Weir, of Ofago, is now engaged in manufacturing New Zealand llax into handsome coloured matting.

An Australian cablegram states that at a large meeting of the National Agricultural Society, called to consider the proposition of the New South Wales Agricultural Association to remove the prohibition of stock, a resolution Avas earned unanimously, "Hint, after the information received of the recent outbreak of disease in Europe, this Society does not feel Avarrantcd in re commending the < Government to remove the prohibition on the importation of stock." An amendment avus moved fomincinonths' quarantine ami proper examination, but was withdrawn after a long discussion.

Napier is developing a crop of curious difficulties in connection Avith the Counties Act. In the Waipawu County another singular complication has arisen. The deci sion of the Returning Officer in the dis puted election of Mr Sydney Johnson, left the seat vacant, and without any means of lilling it until the neAV roll lias been pre pared. The remaining Councillors are six in number, and they are split into tAvo oven parties as to the "place of meeting, three holding out in favour of WaipaAva, while an equal number uphold the claims of Waipukurau to the distinguished honour of being the meeting place of this august body! One of the trio, however, consisted of the chairman, and his casting vote enabled him to give the preference to Waipukurau. At the next meeting held at this place the champions of Waipawa Avere linn est, and the question lias been raised as to Avhether or not the three mem bers are a legal quorum.

Sir :—ln Friday's STAR, " Sufferer complains of improper conduct in the Cho ral Hall, Onehunga, during the entertain ments. "Sufferer" must be suffering under some hallucination, as his statement is AA'ithout foundation. If " Sufferer', would look after the' goose and his bairns, it would pay him better than libelling his neighbours.—Yours, etc., A MOTHER. The South Australian Insurance Com pany shows a profit on its half-year's tran sactions of £7,800. Messrs Seccombe and Son, commenced yesterday to pump water out of their extra ordinary Brewery spring. The repairs have been rapidly pushed on with since the accident took place. Messrs Maseiield and Co. had charge of the repairs necessary to iron work. During the stoppage, water has been forced up from a spring iv the. j P»dd<?«.k jicst Mr Clayton's ground,

The prize won in the intcrproAoncial pigeon match is not yet handed over to the winner, Mr Bishop. ' After the cup sent up from Dunedin had been returned, as not fulfilling the conditions, the Southern men forwarded tlie sixty guineas. This amount was lodged in the hank. Mr Bishop has endeavoured to gel it paid over in cash, but as a cup AA-as distinctly stipulated as the prize when the match was fired, the com mittee are not disposed t<> substitute a money reward. Mr Bishop has now suggested that a .-.'JO cup, to be re purchased by the Club at £23, ami fired for, ami £30 in cash should be banded over. Or if a cup of the full value is insisted mi he is resolved to have one perfectly plain. The settlement of flic match has throughout been most un pleasant, lull a considerable time has elapsed since the trophy was Avon. Mr. Bishop is, perhaps, not without grounds for the indignation lie expresses at thejdclay in arriving n( a positive decision, and in hand ing over the prize in some shape.

People should be very careful of their actions Avhen they are iv the neighbourhood of a camera obse.ura (says " Atticus," in the Melbourne " Leader.") There is one of those pretty little shows on the Sandridgc Railway Pier, to which, during the holi days, a large party paid a visit. The room Avas too small to hold them all, so a gentle man and a young lady remained outside, and went for a short stroll along the beach. Alter a minute or two they both looked cautiously around, and, seeing nobody about, naturally concluded that thoy Avere themselves unseen. In this belief they kissed, not once or twice, but at least fifty times, and in the most pronounced manner, and the whole of that performance, innocent enough, no doubt, in itself, but which peopie like to go through in private, Avas faithfully represented with the most start ling accuracy on the Avhite table round Avhich their friends and relatives were grouped ! For the sake of human nature, I regret to say that none of the Avitnesses to this shocking scene sunt their eyes, or turned away their faces, for the live or ten minutes that the kissing Avas kept up.

The " Lyttelton Times," referring to the Counties Act, says :—Wc pity the Solicitor- General if, as avc hear, he is expected to give an opinion on every legal question which arises iv the mind of every County Councillor on every clause of the Act. There are sixty-three Counties, and about four hundred Councillors, and tAvo hundred and thirteen clauses in the Act. Those of our readers who are expert iv arithmetic can calculate for themselves the aggregate of this awful infliction. It positively amounts to cruelty to Luav Officers, and should be suppressed by law. In the mean time, avc advise the Solicitor-General to apply to the Supreme Court for an injunc tion to restrain this thirst of County Councillors for his " opinions." This slight sketch imperfectly conveys an idea of the present confusion. It is blindman's buff, \Arith every one blindfolded.

Chaos umpire sits. And by decision more embroils the fray

By which he reigns: next him high arbiter Chance governs all.

In the catalogue ot an .important sale of thoroughbred stock, to come off at Hastings near Napier on the 24th inst., Aye notice the Avelbknown name of PaniAvhenua, Avho has done such good service for Mr Watt, and also the Ladybird colt lately named Merlin. The most noteAVorthy animal in the list, is perhaps the yearling, Repudiator, by Tercuga— Hatred.' This chesnut colt took the first prize for yearlings at the HaAvkes Bay Agricultural Society's show, and is engaged in the Auckland Mares Produce Stakes, and in the Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington Derbies.

LATE TELEGRAM.

THE COLONIAL FIRING.

(Per Press Agency.)

I This Afternoon. .. 'muvy rain fell last night, and tliere was:no fiiins __$* after breakfast. THIRD CARBINE MATCH: Kettle (Dunedin), 33 ; McLean (Auck land), 31 ; Strange (Christchurch), 'SO; Rissell (Nelson), '60. SECOND RIFLE MATCH. Tn the second rifle match yesterday at 200 yards Avith S-inch bull's-eye, 51 out of the 50 made an average of over centres not only higher this year than last, but the general average is far superior to any former shooting. THIRD RIFLE MATCH. The third rifle match is finished : Parke,, 32 ; Kecfe, 32 ; Willcocks, 32 ; Armstrong, 32 ; Stonebridge, 31; Payntcv, 31; Siu> j ton. 31. Atchesouj 3L We^th.v hue, j

Mr Stemdalc informs us that the state- | mcnt that ho Avas in any Avay connected with the expedition of fiie schooner Canter- j bury is untrue, excepting as a passenger to i Kaudavu, at AAdiich place the schooner in tho course of a trading cruise intended to call. He has no intention of going to SuwarroAV at the present time, although he does eventually intend to return there, tho probability avus that he would first have visited England He states that he is perfectly Avell aware that his arrest was simply a ruse to prevent the departure of the Canterbury before the Belle Brandon,and adds that it entirely failed of its object, his presence no. in any way affecting tlie sail ing of the vessel or othenvise. He had no luggage on board as Avas stated. Ho denies" being in debt to Messrs Henderson and Macfarlane in any respect. He says that if such a claim had been founded on fact, they would have had time to hare stated their claim within the last three months, the more so as he himself, nearly three months ago expressed his willingness to meet them at any time they might appoint, for the purpose of giving information on the state of the partnership business. Now here is something like a hen. The "Soutldand News" says that a black Spanish j lien, belonging to Mr G. Bailey, Invercar- | giU, laid an egg measuring six and a half inches round one way, and eight the other, and weighing four and a quarter ounces. The statement that Colonel Valentine Biker has accepted a cavalry command in the Turkish army is denied. His whole time has been occupied in elaborating a plan for the defence of Constantinople, which is faAorably regarded by (lie Sultan. Should Russia go to Avar with Turkey, Colonel (laker Avill probably accept the position of a Lieut-General on the staff oi the Turkish army in the field. The hon. the Minister of Justice is expec ted in Auckland shortly, to deal Avith various matters connected Avith his depart ment. Chonkiczec, the wonderful Chinese giant is ill Auckland, and avi'll hold a series of le\-ces in Queen-street, next door to the shop of Mr Waters. The giant is reported to be the tallest, broadest, and heaviest human being in the world, and, although but thirty years of age, Aveighs 29 stone 6 pounds, measures round the chest 59 inches, and stands 7 feet nine inches high. Chonkiczec once foil in love, married the lady of his choice, and is now the father of two children. A handbill the narrative briefly, and informs the reader of the circumstances which brought Mr Starick and the Giant together. The story is a miniature romance and full of lively incident, Avorthy the pen of Maync Heed, but more of this visitor in a few days.

Brigham Young spoke a feAV words of Avisdom one day to a youthful Chicago enthusiast who called upon him. lie said : —"Young man, be sure that you are thorough in your search for the kind of partner you want-—be sure you have got the pattern of a Avoman that suits you, before leading her to the altar. Don't Avail until after marriage, as 1 did, and then be opliged to keep mi sampling." The following is the letter received by Mr J. A. Tole, the Chairman of the Ponsonby Road Board, in relation to the Government subsidies : —"The Treasury, Wellington, 10th February;, 1577. Sir,— Referring to certain clauses in ' The Public Works Act, IS7G,' which require that moneys receivable by any Road Board should he paid to a Bank appointed by the Hoard, 1o an account called (lie "District Fund Account,' 1 have the honour, by direction of the Hon. the Colonial Treasurer, to inform you that the subsidies payable to the several [load Districts under ' The Financial Arrangements Act, 187<>,' Avill be paid to the 'District i:\ui(\ Account,' at tin- Bank appointed by the Board in each east;, instead of being paid as heretofore to the Chairman of tlie Hoard. 1 have accord ingly to request that you will be good enough to inform me of the name of the Hank, and at what branch the ' District Fund Account' of your Board is kept, in order that subsidies or other moneys pay able to the Hoard may be paid to that account. —I have, etc., E. d. Batkix, .Secretary to the Treasury. Joseph A. Tole, Esip, Chairman Ponsonby Road Board, County of Eden. The "Napier Telegraph" hears from its Auckland correspondent that a rumour is prevalent in Auckland to the effect that the All England cricketers haA'e arranged to lose the match against Canterbury. Tlie "Telegraph" Avith a petty malice, the cause of which we look for in vain, goes on to say, " Such a rumour could only emanate in Auckland. Truly they are a jealous people. Their own cricketers shamefully beaten, they are afraid that laurels may be avou in another part of the colony." We are surprised to see a journal which hoAvever rabid is seldom malicious, indulging in such spiteful rot. If two or three simpletons choose to spread a report for mere mischief, we suppose they can do so Avithout inculpat ing the whole of a community. There was such a rumour—of that there is no doubt,but it was set down at its proper value by every right-minded person. It is probable that the " Telegraph's " correspondent is not.oue of these, and his stupidity in sending as news to another province such an absurd rumour, Avarra'nted this conclusion. It may be as aa.ll while on the subject to relate in a few Avords what Aye luive heard as the origin of the rumour. Mr Buck land avus talking to one of tlie English cricketers on the last day of the Auckland match; the subject of conversation Avasthe relative strength < >f the different NeAV Zeala ml teams. Mr Buckland made some remark to the eiiect that Canterbury thought they had a good shoAV. The professional rejoined "That's the province Avhich is going to play only eighteen against us. You may safely lay odds on Canterbury getting a good licking." It is not at sill unlikely that a listener may have caught the first part of this reply without hearing the latter part. As to Auckland having been .shame fully beaten, it is untrue, for up to the present time Auckland has made the best stand against the All England Eleven. .

A Ponsonby correspondent supplies the follow ing items:—Sunday-school matters seem to be kept, on tbe move in All Saints'. Ponsonby has always borne the name of having one of the best Sabbath-schools in the province, and now, as the district is growing, the teachers are glad to Avel come the arrivalof other denominations to assist them in their labour of loA re, though they find even Avith that assistance quite a* much to at tend to as they can do properly. On Wednesday next an interesting meeting will be held fo>' the purpose of distributing the certificates of merit gained at tlie late Industrial Exhibition and also the annual prizes. The Iter. J_. N. liree Avill occupy the chair, and, as the evening's pro ceedings will be enlivened by music and singing and especially as there is to be no charge for admission, Aye expect a crowded assembly On Sunday a children's service (now an established thing every month) v. ill take place in the after noon. These services are Avell worth the atten dance of eAery parishioner who has the interests jot children at heart. • The choir is formed by the scholars, and the effect is very striking A lecture is to be delivered shortly in aid of the funds ol the school, on the "Lost tribes of Israel." which is being looked forward to with great interest. The closing of public-houses on Sunday in Bal la.atcauseda tremendous rim on "single bodies " for ;_ imduy use, at many of the hotels on Satur day night. Jugs, demijohns, and all kinds of A-essels were put in requisition for beer at the "pubs.," says the HCourier," while square gin, cheap whisky, and unknown eonmountls, styled by courtesy brandy, commaqdo'd sale at the grocers' establishments. One grocer Avas heard to declare to a friend, also in the trade, that the Sunday clause Avas a real blessing to him, inas much as on three Saturdays he had cleared out his entire stock of third-rate "stuff,! Avhich under ordinary circumstances, he had been quite unable to get rid of at any price. Sunday avhs yery generally observed as a close day. Tho Bijou St_v Variety Troupe will occupy the Lome-street Hall for a, few evenings, com mencing to-morrow evening at eight o'clock The programme promises a pleasing variety of : songs and specialities. The leading performers : I and vocalists are Mr and Mrs Wilton, Mr Shin j and the cowdiw, Mr Xoiu mm* R • * -:

Major Lusk Avill hold an inspection of Volunteers at the Drill Shed this evening.

The folloAving are the numbers of objec tions to the assessments in Auckland and districts in Eden county. Onehunga not yet ascertained -.-Auckland, ISB ; Parnell, 45 • Mount Eoskill, 2 ; Mount W ellmgton, 5 :'Eden Terrace, 19 ; Epsom, 8 ; One Tree Hill, 4 ; Whau, 4 ; Mount Albert, 1 ; New ton 0 ; Ponsonbv and or DcdAVOod, 9 ; Karangahape, 11 ; Archhill, all; New market, 3 ; Grafton Road, 15 ; Mount Eden, 10; Remuera, 12 ; Panmure, 0 ; Tamaki West, 1 ; Archhill, I.—Total, 344.

We learn that the Rev. Mr. Webb, of Sydney, who has accepted the invitation of the Weilcslcy-street Baptist Congregation, Avill be in Auckland about the first vyeck m April, and will at once enter upon his Avork of the. ministry.

A man recently in tlie employ of John Mullally, avus charged this morning Avith driving two horses in the neighbourhood of Newton, the said horses not being in a lit state for work. The description given of the animals avus heartrending in the extreme, and sheAved a Avanton act of hard hearted cruelty on the part of the OAvner. Their shoulders and backs AA-ere almost bare and horrible to look upon. The little fellow ucknoAvledgcd that the animals Avere in the state described., that the sight make bis heart ache, but if he did not drive them, some one else AA'ould, and he avus too poor to refuse the job. His Worship regretted that Mullally had not been brought to ansAver for this species of cruelty, jin stead of the unfortunate driver. We hope the police will look to these matters and, if possible, bring all such offenders to justice.

A common superstition charges cats with sucking the breath of infants, thereby-caus ing their death by strangulation. This i. a false accusation, as pussy's mouth is so formed anatomically that she would not be able to do so .sanguinary a deed did she Avish it. Instances are on record Avhere cats have craAvled into a cradle or bed, and laid doAvn on an infant's face, not pro bably with any criminal intent, though children have been found dead under such circumstances —but purely for the sake of the warmth of the infant's body and cloth ing.

Last night the North Shore, in the vicinity of "Devcnnort Avharf, was again tlie scene of some excitement on the occasion of a roAving match. The competitors aa _re J. Pattestm and T. Collins on one side, and M. Finch and S. Hurst on the other. A very fair start aa.is made, but it Avas patent from the first that the two first-named men Avere " too hot" for the others. Tlie course Avas from the Avharf round the Vixen, thence round the buoy off Victoria wharf, and hack to the Devonport Avharf. Hurst and Finch are powerful men, but are evidently un accustomed to handling an oar, as at one moment their boat's head Avould be pointing for Orakei and the next for Auckland Avharf, "Soldier's stroke" being the order of the hour. At the. finish the Avinners Avcre greeted Avith hearty cheers, and the losers, on arrival about 10 minutes later, Avith cheers and laughter.

POLICE COURT,—This Day.

(Before B.C. Barstow Esq., 1.., M.)

PASSIXO AAV.W

Eliza McGinn was charged under the Vagrant Act with being drunk and disor derly, Avith being a rogue and a vagabond, and against, whose reputation Avere offences equalling in number the days of the year. Sub-Inspector Pardy stated that the pri soner could not be introduced into Court, as she had destroyed all her clothes in the night, and was in a perfectly nude state. The ease was remanded until some eloth | ing could be procured to cover the woman. IX SLUMBER DEE.. "Wallace Manus, a strong man, able to work, was brought under the Vagrant Act, he having been found asleep on the premi ses of William Burton, Kyber Pass road. Prisoner pleaded guilty. Sub-Inspector Pardy said the prisoner was found sleeping in Mr Burton's shed, when taken into custody, £1 8s lOd, was found upon the prisoner, so that he was not in want. His Worship asked the prisoner several questions, but he gave no answer, simply staring with a vacant gaze. Constable Abrams said he had been watching the prisoner for some weeks. It appeared that prisoner was known as a person of bad character, avlio had been convicted several times under fictitious names. Fourteen days imprisonment with hard labour. MY MOTHER. Who was it called me, Hugh, by name. And bade me keep from acts of shame, Ere I a iisherman became— My Mother. Hugh Sullivan, a hale fisherman, Was brought on warrant, charged with neglect ing to contribute towards the support ot his mother, Nancy Sullivan. Defendant had been unfortunate in the fish trade, which being proved by a witness, the Court, on defendant's promising to pay the arrears, 245, was discharged. SUMMONS CASKS. William Allan Shaw was summoned for driving a dray without proper reins. Defendant pleaded guilty under mitigating circumstances ;be was riding on the shaft for the purpose of keeping the load steady. Fined ss, costs 5s 6d. Harold Southgate, a smart little man, was charged with wantonly torturing two horses in Symouds-street. Defendant said lie avus a poor man, and avus compelled to drive the horses for his employer, Mullally. His Worship said he regretted that the owner could not be punished instead of the driver. Sub-Inspector Pardy said that the horses were hi an unfit state for work; their shoulders being in a raw state. Fined ss, costs 10s 6d, the Court regret ting that Mr Mullally was not made to°pay a penalty of £5. Defendant said he could not pay tlie fine and he was sure that Mullally would not ; to get money out of him was like getting blood out of a stone. ' ° The Court alloAvcd three weeks for pay ment, and desired to see Mullally on the subject. It avus most disgraceful to punish dumb animals in the way that this con tractor had done. _ Ernest Haxdwick pleaded guilty to throAv lng stones at St. Paul's School fence, also to the danger of a boy, named William Speight. Mr Worthington explained the circum stances. His Worship strongly censured the practice of stone throwing among boys. On bern« asked if he claimed his expen ses, Mr Worthington said he ought to do so but would give it to the poor box. Bined 2s 6'd for each offence, costs 8s in each case. ELIZA'S RKTUKX, A 'petticoat, old goAvu, a head-comb, and pair of worn carpet slippers having been procured from the Chancery Lane deposi tory for Eiiza McGinn, that individual was brought into Couit. Eliza : Can't understand tho term vaga bond, jour Worship. fa Mr Cunningham read in a clear, sonorous voice from the Vagrant Act, and proved by £nzas numerous convictions, written in nw own Roman hand, that prisoner was eminently qualified for the terms affixed to her name and that, she had well earned the unenviable diplomas in the purlieus of vioe and wickedness. His Worship also read the definition of a rogue and vagabond, but not to Eliza's sati_taotion, u_Fkf\, sai _ ho, r liljsfwtunes were due to n „ i wV ,v,io bM WW the xogw arS :

Sub-Inspector Pardysaid the AA'onian-n ---apart from her husband, and had h co-habiting with the notorious Ctoavp «Cn iv Mount Eden. Jf*' no* Eliza expressed her astonishing at ~ villainous manner in Avhich her charact had been attacked ; still she Avould stiff with the pluck of a daughter of Ireland The Court considered that Eliza' shoiill lie taken care of, and ordered a transfer f her person to the serene society of Mount Eden for tlie term of eighteen months. Eliza wept. EDUCATION RATE DEFAULTERS No less than 89 persons Avere summoned to slicav cause Avhy they had not paid tli* education rate, due in June last. ' Mr Beale appeared for Mr Lusk. The majority of the cases Avere fron Gisborne, and Avere proved by Mr Pioss commission agent and rate-collector for Gisborne. In a feAV cases the rates had been settled, but Mr Piossehad experienced a great deal of trouble, as many of the defendants were hitting bachelors, and others had given fictitious names. Judgments for plaintiffs Avere given in 41 cases, with costs £1 16s Sd in each case The remainder of the cases were adjourned until March. This was all the business.

RAILWAY COMMISSION.

True Railway Commissioners met to-day at the RailAA'ay Station. Present: Messrs; R. G. Wood (Chairman), W. SAvanson, J. S. Macfarlane. Messrs. Passmore and Ale Donald were also in attendance.

Mr Martin, a settler at Eazorban__ <_ Y e information as to charges for the earn. _ of posts, etc. He considered the char_s for tlie conveyance of sheep AA.re a _ry much too high. He had bought some posts, Avhieh lie had not been able to get up in _b_. sequence of the excessive freight. He had only got one load up. Mr King, chemist, offered some suc<r es . dons, recommending a reduction in the fares.

Mr Rutherford, of tlie Great South Road, also complained of the excessive charges for the coin-eyance of sheep. He stated that Avhere he had sent 21 sheep, they had been charged as .avo score, and an empty avool pack Avas charged the same freight as a full one.

The case of the charge of lis 6d on a cookery book, has been investigated, and has been admitted to Mr McDonald to have been a blunder of one of the clerks.

The general tone and pith of the evidence was a complaint against the charges as being excessive, and they went to shew that if the rates Avere loAvered, the lines would be more extensiA.ly used by the public. The witnesses were thanked for their attendance, and AvithdreAV.

The Commissioners visited the Avorksliops before separating

The Commission Avill sit at Onehunga to-morroAv at half-past eleven o'clock, Avlien they Avill be_prepared to receive evidence.

Pursuit of the Canterbury.

Attempt to Arrest J. XL Shaw.

RUSSELL, this day. Arrived : Canterbury, Elsinore, and lona. Sailed : Canterbury, William and Julia, and Magic. On the arrival of the lona, -Police-con stable McGovern and the Custoin-llouse officer started after the Canterbury, to arrest J. W. Shaw, for obtaining money underfalsepretences. As the Canterbury _ad two hours' start, they Avere unable to over haul her, but folloAved a long distance in pursuit.

CABLEGRAMS.

ENGLAND'S POLICY OF CAUTION.

MR HARDY ON ENGLAND'S TREATS

OBLIGATIONS

[PRESS AGK>*CY".]

LONDON, February 17. ENGLAND'S reply to the Russian Circular depends upon the course of events. Before expressing its views, the English Goa-en. meat desires to knoAV the A'iew _ of the other Powers. Mr Gathorne Hardy, replying to Mr Gladstone's question on Friday, said Eng land Avas not freed from the obligations under the Treaties of 1856" and 1871. It would be unjust if Turkey Avas left in the cold. But Turkey Avas saddled with obliga tions under the treaties, and, if she Avas botnid, the treaties imposed no duty, in case of Avar, for Turkey, but respect for her independence and integrity. He strongly protested against drawing the sword with the vieAV ot coercion.

400 bales of New Zealand hemp sold at £22 10s to £25 10s.

THE NEW DOCK.

I The contractors for the "new dock having finished building the coffer-dam, shut down the sluice gates this morning at 5 o'clock, and com ; nienced pumping- the dock out. To this end a powerful engine was erected on the X.W. side of the dam. This is capable of throwing 2Sw" gallons per minute in an immense v»lume. In three-hours there Avas only two feet of wafer; left in the dock, and everything Avas going re< markably well. The residue did not decrease so fast as it ought to have done, and an examina tion at 10 o'clock showed a leak had sprungnear the centre of the entrance end. For some tinia the pump slowly gained on the leak, but after one o'clock it was palpable that the leaK Avas getting the upper hand. At the plß.ce where the leak is situate the hottoni is nearly bare of mud, and the hard rock comes close W to the sheet piles. At half past two o'clock me contractors were busily engaged in sinlriiigoaS3 of clay outside the dock, and the sensible dimin ution of the leak was good proof that they Arere - going the right way to Avork. It is nearly cer tain that to-morrow the interior of the docK win be pumped dry. At the time of high wa_«_ Avhon the pressure from without was greats the deflection in the 150 feet line of sheet pun* at the entrance was barely two inches,' soi tn» the strength of the clam is' proved. During W day most of the members of the Harbour Bom and a great number of citizeus have visitec uw works. MessrsJonesand Ware,thecontract^, are hard at it, and they express the greater confidence in their Avork.

HIS WORSHIP THE MAYOR AND THE CRICKETERS.

At eleven o'clock this morning his Worship the Mayor, in the presence of a number of genus men, presented to Mr. R. J. Yates the prize oat. subscribed for by a feAV prominent citizens as j* mark of their appreciation of Mr. Yates excel lent batting in tne All Kngland Cricket Matcm His Worship accompanied the presentation «a some highly laudatory remarks on Mr. *a,*?_ play, which not only he himself but tne England players had greatly admired. &•"*£ never knoAvn a reAvaru more richly earnea, au" he trusted that Mr. Yates Avould have the oppor tunity of distinguishing himself still furtner against the same opponents, and that nis o* ample would lead others to practise aff dH?.,„i in order to attain the same success. Mr- j_SJs_f fl went on to give some very goodpractpiwj" 1" on the game- It AA'as patent to all who»w „„£ late match that it Avas not their strength m any particular department of the game that gave mo English players such superiority but their gene ral smartness all round, and their h£autinn co operation in the field. He trusted that auck land players Avould in future give nmreattennuu to the fielding, backing-im, sunning ne^S? Avickets, throwing-m, and otheri P01?, 1?' which Avere so often neglected. ■»-* worship said ho was pleased, to «£* that Mr Joseph Bennett bee& P"i sentecl with a ball as a souvenir of hisgffWgi ing in the match. That gentleman ha^Kfg? shoAvn an enthusia _n iv maiily games, *""#"_* hoped to see emulated uy the rising generation. Many BpecuUtiora had been luvzarOed as to tne issue o|' the Canterbury match. part, _2_ fervent wish was that the so^hem province would prove victorious, and reuetus the credit .of the colony. Such a .reswv Avould not fail to be very beneficial w 1 cricket in tho colony, as U would create » fresh incentive to zoal among our own l»w?"> Mr Yataa inod-sdy returned thanks, *W £_$ never felt so pt-o'A'i in his' life before. B^ifS never *-,_,, _ro*s._c__l crh-kct Utfore, and_ij haaiv'.wrt.tohla thought by day. and

THE EVENING STAR TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 30, 18TT.



"VT 0 T I C E. 1 will not be responsible for any Debts con tracted by my Avife without a Avritten order from me.—H. Miller, Lincoln-street, Ponsonby. February 19. 1877. BOYS' AND MEN'S CLOT 11J NO STRONG TWEED FOR HOYS' WEAR FLANNEL, &C, &C. A LARGE PARCEL OF NEW GOOD JUST OPENED UP AT RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN'S, Comprising— Men's TAveed Trousera, in variety, from 10/G per pair Men's Strong Tweed Suits, at 30/ suit complete Men's Superior Quality Suits Paget Coats, and Hoys' and Youths' Suits in variety Men's Moleskin Trousers, a really good quality, at 7/6 per pair Strong Cotton Working Shirts in variety All Wool Crimean Shirts, good qualities, from 6/6 And, A Lot of STRONG TWEED, suitable for Boys' wear, from 1/11 per yard Also, 2 Bales ALL WOOL WELSH FLANNEL, from 1/2 per yard New Prints, Furnishing Goods, &c. Inspection will proA re that the above Goods are kea_l_ cheap, the Avhole parcel having been exceptionally well bought in an over stocked market. __F One Shilling in the £■ _eturn_d oh all pur chases of 20s. and upAvards. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN, Upper Queen-street. Auckland. "^"OTICE OF REMOVAL. TT A TKINS BEGS TO ANNOUNCE THAT HE _ar H A S REMOVEDII*a TO THE Pkemises Next Door Below his Old Shop. H. ATKINS Begs to heartily thank his numerous Cus tomers for their very liberal patronage from his first commencing business up to the present time, and to assure them that although his trade has increased to that extent, that his REMOVAL to more Commodious Premises was a neces sity, the same principles of business Avill still be adhered to: viz., keeping a good article, buying in the cheapest market, and selling at the smallest profit possible. Hi 3 New Shop shall ahvays be knoAvn as The Cheapest in Auckland. H.A. will be happy to see all his old Customers, and as many new ones as may honour him Avith their patronage. A SPLENDID STOCK OF DRAPfERY AND CLOTHING Will always be found, and the PRICES THE LOWEST IN AUCKLAND ! H. ATKINS. TO TOURISTS AND VISITORS TO WAIKATO AND THE LAKES. BUGGIES (DOUBLE AND SINGLE), AND SADDLE HORSES, ALWAYS READY FOR HIRE AT REASONABLE CHARGES. Parties intending.- go through to the Lakes proAuded with first-class animals by B. EDWARDS (Late of Cobb & Co.), LIVERY STABLEKEEPER, Hamilton Hotel, Hamilton, Waikaeo. JC © S G R A V E & CO., Beg to a___-__.ee they Avill bring forward A Fresh Lot of B A R G A I N 8!!! Consisting «of HEIR LATE SHIPMENT ©V THE ORARI, Purchased at Home at Job Pieces, together with the whole | of their j ■SUMMER DRAPERY & CLOTHING, j REDUCED IN PRICE TO SUIT "THE TIMES Several Bales of CALICO, damaged by g.a j wate?> m beS»id iw^#«Y<?M flflW. I'



JjIURNITURE! FURNITURE Ladies and Gentlemen about to Furnish arc- respect fully requested to inspect Vie Large Stork of DR A WING -It O OM, D TNIN 0 - 200 \L BEDROOM, AND GENERAL HOUSEHOLD FUR V7 TUBE, In our New and- Spacious Showrooms. 67, QUEEN-STREET Ad/ioininQ Bankof New Zealand rpHORNTON. SMITH, AND FIRTH'S j_ PRICES CURRENT (Wholesale). Sacks. 100's. 50's. Crown Brand Flour, & s. d. £ s. d. & s. d. per ton IS 0 0 IS 10 0 19 0 0 T.S.&F. Canterbury Brand 17 0 0 17 10 ' 0 IS 0 0 Seconds Flour .. .. 1110 0 Sharps 8 10 0 Bran GOO Fowl Wheat .. .. 0 5 oto ss. Gd. The above prices include sacks and bags; sacks and bags not returnable. Terms: Cash. Auckland. February 14, 1877.



CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUG!..LAND. Mails will Close as Under: — Fori Thames, this day, at 4.30 p.m., and 5.30 p.m.. and to-morrow, at .">.30 p.m. For ('oromandel, pet- Kina, to-morrow, at i 1.30 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Waipu. Wangarei, and lUangupai. per ___•{*_._. this day, ill 1 p.m." For Tairua, per Mana, to-morrow, at ll a.m. For Russell, per Janet, this day. at i p.m. For Australian Colonies, per Hero, on Wednes day next, at 11 a.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 10 a.m. Late letters for Sydney and Melbourne Only Avill be received till 11.20 a.m. For Taranaki and Southern provinces, per Hawea, to-morroAV, at U. a.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 10 a.m. Late letters will In- received til! 11.20 a.m. For Tauranga, per Wanaka, to-morrow, al 3 p.m. For Gisborne. Napier, and Wellington, per Southern Cross. To-morrow, at 3 p.m. For Whitianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowona, to-morrow, at I p.m. For Waiwera, Warkworth. and Te Arai, per Anne Milbank, on Thursday next at 10 a.m. S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster.



What is more nefarious than selling adultera ted and poisonous drams labelled and bottled to imitate a pure and health-yielding medicinal beverage. This is precisely Avhat the rogues are doing Avho sell imitations of tho celebrated Udolpiio Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps put up in bottles Avhich previously held that incomparable, cordial and specific for disease. Let the public beware of such shams.