SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

TTTnu w \ -rim f This Afternoon, 12 HIGH WATER—^ To-morrow Morning, 0.35 SUN PET.—This Evening, 7.14. SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning, 5.11 MOON'S AGE.—First Quarter, 23rd, 3.132 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

Hawca, s.s., Wheeler, from the South DEPARTURES. Taranaki. s.s., Wheeler for tlie South lona; s».s., Farquhar, for the North Oc^ola, brigantine, Mathieson, for Adelaide, via Wangaroa

IMPORTS.

Per Loch L Trr, from London: 17t'"> boxes candles, i c.ises pianos, 3 do perfumery, ] do varnish, 1 do brushware, 3 do confectionery, 7 do hardware, 5 do sago, i <io tartaric acid, 1 bale scrim, 1 case preserved fish, 25 boxes tin plates, ■J cases fancy goods, 1 do perambulators, 1 do ether. 1 do tin foil. 2 bales clothea lines, 101 barrels herrings, 2 casks glassware, 1 bale cork, ] do canvas, 2 do netting twin-, 2 do stationery, 1 cask ink.—JS. and 11. Isaacs.

The s.s. lona left for the North last night, well patronised, as usual. Captain Knorr, of H.I.M. ship Ilertha, has courteously consented to place his vessel on view to the public until further notice. We anticipate that large numbers will avail them selves of this opportunity of inspecting a crack foreign man-of-war. The North Shore Ferry Company will convey passengers to and fro. The following is the passenger Jist by the s.s. Taranaki, which loft yesterday afternoon for Ihc SouUi:—Mr and Mrs U'irihana, Mr and Mrs Dalton and two children, Mrs Oarleton, ?>!;■-, Netrleship and infant. Mrs Clarke. Mr.-; Tatr and infant, narrate, Mnhi; Messrs Wood, Taylor, Berry, Maunsell, Carlton, Burrows, Blake, A. Webb, Dudley, Lusk. Hesselhirc, McGuire, O'Dovvn, H<\ Dalton, Blake, Kilgour, Keys, Marchent, Hyland, Plant-, Broomliall, OConncll, Kidnor, Ltoborisou, Tilson, llvlson, Faithfnil, Brown, Taylor. Lnsk, Fergusson, !! ill: Misses Dudley (2),' and 11 in the steerage.— Henderson and Macfarlane, agents. Tlie s.s. Hawca arrived in the Manukau from the South yesterday afternoon. Her report and passenger list came to town too late for insertion in our last night's issue. The following came tip by her: Mr and Mrs Walker, Mr and Mrs Owen and child, Mr and Mrs Gibbon, Mr and Miss Bishop S3), Mrs and T'.lisslßucholz, Mrs Lloyd and child, Mrs McDonald, infant, Mid servant, Mrs Ohingrwell, Mrs Golinp. Mrs Morris, Mrs and Mir,s Lemanquais, Misses Cox V2\ Miss Park. Mips Chapman, Rev. Father Simpson, Dr Skey, Messrs Skipton, Porter, Stephcnson. Edwards, .1. A. Beal, Crossman, Sherrar, W. D. Robinson, J. C Ponsonby, T. Henderson, Daore, Marshall, Goldsworthy (3), Xewdick. Ravin. Savage, Buck, Rossiter, Bayly, and Bramhail, Mr and Mrs Clark and family; 11 steerage.—Henderson and Macfarlanc, agents.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Closk as Under:— For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m.; and to morrow, at 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, per Lalla Rookh, on Thurs day next, at 1.30 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarci, and Mangapai, per Argylo, this day, at 4 p.m. For Russell, per Elizabeth, to-morrow, at 9 a.m. ForTairua, per Atalanta, to-morrow, at 11 a.m. For WMtianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowcna, to-morrow, at t p.m. For Waiwera, Warkworth, and Tc Arai, per Annie Milbank, on Thursday next, at 10 a.m. For Waiheke, per Spey, on Thursday next, at 8 a.m. For Whitiangi, per Ocean, on Thursday next, at i p.m. For Taranaki, Southern Provinces, and Aus tralian Colonies, per Hawea, on Friday next, at 2.1-5 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, tit 1.15 p.m. Late letters will be received till 3.10 p.m. For Australian Colonies, per City of New York immediately after hoi- arrival from Kauda vu. S. B. BIS 3, Chief Posfnistjr.

NOTICE TO CORRESPONDENTS.

"C.H." and a number of other letters to the Editor, have succumbed to the necessities of space. Wo can only attempt to make a selection from the variety of matter possessing claims to consideration.

DEATH.

SIIATCPLEY.—On the 22nd instant, at the Pro vincial Hospital, Thomas, son of Mr. Mark Sharpley, of Manchester, previously of Mace- TJie funeral will leave the United Methodist Free Church Sunday-school, Pitt-street, at A p.m. to-morrow (Wednesday). lIOPKINS.--011 the 22nd instant, Walter Edwin, youngest son of W. J. and Ellen Hopkins, aged. 13 months. ... The funeral will leave the residence of Ins uncle, W. J. Munroe, Nelson-street, at three o'clock to-morrow. Friends please accept this invitation.

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

TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 1877

For tlie caise that lacks assistance. For Ihc wroncr 'hat needs resistance! For the luture in the distance. And the jjood that we can do.

The entire absence of interest, manifested bj parents in the olections of .school com mittces, so far as they have yet proceeded, is not suggestive of a high appreciation of tho importance and benefit of a sound and efficient public school system. The high way board contests stand out in marked contrast to the perfect indifference displayed by the electors of school districts respecting a matter which will more largely influence the future of New Zealand than any other. At City West No. 1 meeting, the number present avrs insufficient to warrant the election of a committee, and, to the disgrace of those who have entrusted to them the parental care and training- of children, the meeting lapsed. At Newton last night the attendance was small, and at Ponsonby, perhaps a dozen put in an appearance at the hour named. This however, it must be mentioned, was partly due to an impression, participated in by some members of the committee, that the hour of meeting was half-past seven instead of seven, and the few present pushed through the business with unusual and somewhat remarkable punctuality and precipitancy. Insufficient- publicity, consequent on the system of advertising city elections in an unclassified list with country meetings, may have contributed something to the general poorness of attendance, but this is not enough to account for the wide-prevailing carelessness concerning the government of local schools. It may, perhaps,be said that the system lias run so smoothly and satis factorily without any effort on the part of parents, that a lack of vigilance is excusable. Through the exertions of the few who do interest themselves in educational matters, and still more through the elli ciency of the teachers, our public schools hay building accommodation being taken into consideration- —been re markably well-managed, and have given almost universal satisfaction. This is no little praise in view of the difficulties and prejudice that surrounded the initiation of the Education Act, the Lick of funds, and the necessity for placing dependence upon an irritating, unequal, and oppressive direct tax. \Ye can, however, never hope for the complete success of any public in stitution or system unless popular sympathy and interest are thorough)v enlisted in its favour. It is a fair deduction /mm tno in difference displayed at the district meetings that there is a proportionate indifference to education itself. That this should be so in the present age is difficult of realisation. That, with the strongest inducements, pecuniary and intellectual ; with the future welfare of their offspring dependent on parents 9 recognition of the universal ten dency to elevate knowledge and depress ignorance ; with facilities bringing within reach of the most humble, a key to the temple of enlightenment, that will enable the persevering student to explore its innermost recesses ; Avith a host of powerful incentives appealing to almost every motive that sways human nature, it is a paradox that even one parent should be found indifferent to the great cause which has, within the last, few days, drawn to gether, ten or twenty people out of a popu lation of thousands. Where parents are so .apathetic how can we expect from chil dren a right appreciation <:f the momentous importance of attention to their school duties? The lessons conveyed by the school elections are extremely discouraging to those who have believed that people are now so thoroughly alive to the advantages of edu cation, that any extraordinary stimulus is unnecessary, where the system is of a liberal character. And they will strengthen the cause of those who declare that compulsion, and it alone, will ever overthrow the reign of ignorance.

New SOUTH Wales has'paid an indirect compliment to the mental capacity of our Commissioner of Customs. So formidable do the New South Wales Government appear to estimate the diplomatic powers of the Hon. (*. M. McLean that they have selected no fewer than three representatives, the Premier, Treasurer, and Postmaster General, to look after their interests in the approaching Conference on the Cable and Mai] Service questions. This is a case of "double-banking," and our representative will have to retain all his wits to meet the eloquence and arguments of the trio. AVliat latent talents the Government of New South Wales have discovered under the usually [taciturn exterior of our Commissioner of Customs we cannot even guess, but it is just within the bounds of possibility that beneath the outwardly torpid exterior of New Zealand's representative may slumber the lires of a mighty and massive intellect, -which shall burst forth with startling effect upon an astonished Conference, and overwhelm all opposition in a perfect lava of diplomatic skill. Or it may be that the lion, gentleman is a man possessed of few original ideas, and there fore husbands them with care. Such men are not likely to be easily dazzled by new-fangled- schemes, but are usually remarkable for tenacity of purpose and firm adherence to one fixed idea. Mr McLean is fortunate in having at his elbow a shrewd and observant adviser in Dr. Lemon, and we have good reason to believe that our Government will not be bam boozled by any specious arguments of the New South Wales representatives in favour of making the Bay of Islands the port of call.

We have received from Inspector Thom son, licensing officer for the district of Auckland, the return of the number and quantity of arms, ammunition, and other warlike stores in respect to the sale, re moval, or disposal of which licenses have been issued during the year ended December 31st. 1876, The total number of licenses in form A, was 6090, including for personal use, building purposes and to dealers. Under form I) to import, export, to remove coast wise, and from magazines, 1/JG6 licenses ; dealers licenses, 31 ; total, 8,087. The number of arms was, smooth-bores, 1,003 ; rifles, 109; pistols-:, revolvers, etc.; <20f>; swords, 36, The quantity ammunition aiui

Sir, —I observed a paragraph in the Star stating that Mr Thomas Russell had shipped thirty one fallow deer for Auckland on the 3rd of November last, in the "Thurland Castle," from Burleigh park. Stamford. I am not awaieif the deerfromthe home of the Cecils are any better than the deer of Windsor, or of any of the noDle domains of England, hut Burleigh, or 'Burghley as it was anciently railed, is interesting for its picturesque grounds and romantic associations. Burghley House is situated on the borders of the counties of Lincoln and North ampton, and is unsurpassed in its architectural character by any seat in the uidland counties of England. It was the home of the great ('ecilof .Shakespere's days, was the home of his ancestors from the fourteenth century, and is still the home of the Marquis of Exeter, a descendant of the same family. The house contains 145 rooms, and its appearance, with its turrets, cupolas, and spires, resembles a town in a wood. The mansion is furnished with a number of state beds, and its chapel is ornamented with splendid carvings by the celebrated Grinling (ribbons, who was discovered in poverty by Evelyn, and introduced to King Charles the lirst. Tlie mansion lias been several times visited by (Juecns Eliza beth anil Victoria. Its line picture gallery contains many valuable works by the grand old masters, whose names seem to breathe in tlie palaces of England. Among the portraits, is one of Miss Hoggin's, tlie Shropshire innkeeper';; daughter, whom Lord Henry Cecil wooed under the assumed name of Henry Jones, and whose memory has been immortalized by Tennyson in his beautiful ballad "The Lord of Burgliley" which, with the exception of one or two poetical digression is generally true. Tlie granddaughter of this ostimablc girl became tlie wife of the late Lord Charles Welleslcy, second son of the Duke of Wellington. Tennyson's sketch of her is correct : — " She grow a noble lady, and the people love her much, But a trouble weighed upon her, and perplexed her night and morn, With the burden of an honour, unto which she was not born." The history of Burghley House and its associations would forni a volume, which the Burghley Park deer may revive in the memories of Lincolnshire men in tins colony.—J.B. In a paragraph last, week tlie name of Curtin's sister was given ;us Mis Moran, instead of Mrs Kenny. A most annoying printer's blunder occurred in connection with Mr R. Arthur's sale of household furniture and effects, advertised in our issue of last evening. By a transposition, the announcement was divided in half, each part being placed separately with the trade announcements of other auctioneers. The sah; will take place to-morrow, as advertised in another column, and comprises drawing-room suites, side-board, pictures, and a variety of other useful household goods. At Duncdin anewspapcr runner lias been summoned, for selling copies of the " Daily Times "and "Star" within tb" precincts of the Duncdin Railway station. The case is brought, for the purpose of testing Messrs Reed and Fenwick's right to exclude all lint their own papers by virtue of their contract recently entered into with the Government, giving them tlie privilege, among other things, to sell literature on the platform of the Duncdin Railway station. Mails for the Australian colonies per ltingaroonia, will close at 11 a.m. to-morrow the 24th. Tlie annual church meeting of St. MatthewV: was held last- evening, Rev. It. S. Hassard in the chair. Captain Williams read the report. From this it appeared that progress was being made, the oll'crteries having increased, and pew-rent* had amounted to £305 Is (id. The vnrious liabilities had been liquidated. The total receipts from all resources amounted to jsiiso li" oil. Tlio total expenditure amounted to £10712 15s 9d, leaving a balance in bank of £")i) 15s lid. The following gentlemen were elected on the commit tee :— Colonel Hauitain, Messrs Henderson, Dick ( sou, J. C. Morrin, Burtfe, Ward, H. Webb (jun.), Withlcy, Howden, and Dr. Hooper. Captain Williams and Mr Dooniu were elected churchwardens, and Messrs Brig ham and Cameron auditors. On the ques tion of a proper memorial to the late Rev. David Jones, Mr Dickson moved, and [ Mr Dawson seconded : " That the window be first exhibited for the inspection of the parishioners before any action be taken, and the disposal of tlie window be subse quently determined on at a meeting of the parishioners." It was also resolved that, the minister's stipend be the same as that of the previous year. Votes of thanks closed the meeting. Tlie annual meeting of the Mount Albert school, was held in the school-room, Morn ingside, yesterday, Mr.. McElwain |in the chair. Tlie report was read by Mr. Page

secretary, and proved very satisfactory. The folloAving gentlemen were appointed a new Committee : Messrs Cladding, Page, Martin, A. K. Taylor, J. McElwain. After the meeting the new committee met, when Mr. McElwain Avas appointed chairman, Mr. Page secretary. With a vote of thanks to the chairman the meeting separated.

A girl named Flora Weaver, two and a half-years of age, "was burnt to death at

Christchurch yesterday during the absence of her parents. She got hold of a bo.v of matches, and in playing with them set the

bed on lire.

At the meeting of the Weslcyau Con ference at Christcluirch, friendly greetings have been exchanged with the Free Methodist Church. The services on Sun day were in aid of the Home Mission, and the llev. A. lieid preached to a crowded congregation at Denham. There was a full choral service.

At a large meeting of members of the con gregation of the Baptist Church, Welleslcy strcet, it was unanimously resolved that the Rev. Allan Webb, of Bathurst-street Baptist Church, Sydney, be asked to accept pastoral charge of the congregation. The call will lie sent to Sydney, the rev. gentleman having left this city for his home.

A settler named Ronald McDonald has been killed under a dray at Ilivcrtou. He leaves a young widow, to whom lie had been married only a few months.

The total number of inmates of the Provincial Hospital is 82, of whom 06 are females. Three deaths occurred during the past week.

A very complimentary testimonial has been presented to Dr. J. Govett Smith, by the passengers of the steamer Australia, whom he attended at the Quarantine Station.

A London telegram of January 20th reports the sale of forty bales of New Zealand ilax at prices ranging from £2o for good, and £21 and £22 for common. A Sydney telegram of yesterday reports the arrival of the Rotoniii at that Port.

The Presbyterian church of Tamaki West is situated in an open valley, in the centre of a fanning district; but the church is too remote from the dwellings of settlers to attract a large congregation ; hence there is but one service on the sabbath. The minister, Rev. J. Macky, has a three-fold sabbath duty to perform, namely at Hovvick, OUUmliu, and Tamaki West. The prin cipal attendants and supporters of the cause of religion among these scattered settlers and sheep farmers, are Messrs Thomson. Taylor, and. Wylie. Miss Taylor presides at the harmonium, and Mrs McGaul leads tho choir. Mr Macky is a hard worker, and of late his health has given way. On Sunday evening it was thought his in disposition might prevent him from appearing in his place at the church. Vt the appointed hour, however, Mr Macky was at his post. It was v beautiful starlight evening, and the little church was tolerably wcll-lilled by settlers an* visitors. Mr Macky preached a renlly excellent sermon, and which was listened to with devout attention, from 1 Peter, c. 1, v. 2i,~ " .For nil flesh is as grass, and all the fflory of man (is the flower of grass," &c. Tho discourse was insU'uc tivcand Impressive throughout; m-sf, the analogy between man wul nature was drawn; second, lliistrated with examples, and. third, the per» i-uuvl appUfiftUon oi the ftttpject ',y#j pfjjrQocu

The United Free Methodist Conference at Christchurch have decided that the next conference be held at Napier in January next. The Revs. R. Taylor and J. A. Cargill will be stationed at Auckland for the year, and the Rev. W. Lockwood, formerly of this city, at Rangiora, Canter bury. Mr Bennett has received a telegram of this day's date stating that Mr Lillywhite with the English Cricketers left Hokitika yesterday for Nelson in the Tararua, and will come direct to Auckland.

jgAn inquest was held on the 18th instant at Day's store, Clifton, on the body of William Day, before Mr Shepherd, J.P., and a jury. From the evidence of Mr Day, Mr fLegge, and others, it appeared that on returning from collecting sheep, Mr Day heard a noise from the well in his yard, and on going to ascertain the cause, he saw a sheep struggling in the water. The sheep was got out, but the body of the child, which was beneath the sheep, was not dis covered until some time after. When brought up, the body was lifeless. The jury returned a verdict of accidental death. Mr" Day was to have proceeded early the following morning to Mahurangi with a number of his fellow-settlers, to play a cricket match with the Mahurangi Club, Mr Day being one of the best cricketers in the Kaipara. The touching little romance, of the Rose and Lillies, related in our Saturday's issue, may, it is said, leave tho impression that the young ladies who became the objects of the erring young man's attentions were possibly aware of bis character and pre vious exploits. This, it is hardly necessary to say, could not have been the case. Rose waia perfect stranger in the city, and if artful and fascinuting enough to beguile hard-headed city merchants, it is hardly to be wondered at that lie should have suc ceeded in imposing on the simplicity of sweet maidenhood, by passing himself oil a-s an unsophisticated and respectable mem ber of society. The young ladies, we are assured by one who has a perfect knowledge of the circumstances, were most astounded and shocked by subsequent revelations touching the character of their gay would be escort. Mr. Druinmond's Art Uuion drawing of oil paintings, illustrative of Now Zealand scenery, will bo hold on Friday next, at Messrs Upton and Go's., Queen-street, at the hour of four in the afternoon. These oil-paintings possess great merit and are hipfhly creditable to the taste and talent of the artist. A Hitting in Bankruptcy will bo held at the Supreme Court to-morrow bofore his Honour Mr Justice Gillies, when the case of Townshend Bros, will be heard. There will also be a sitting in Banco. «___

DROWNING OF MR WILLIAM EASTWOOD AT NELSON.

Thk announcement of the ilcatli of Mr. William Eastwood, of Oneliungn, will be received with regret. The deceased of late years had made a practice of talking a summer tour in scare!) of the; picturesque. Last year he visited ftotomahana and the Lake dist-ict, and returned with about forty sketches .sketched by the way, some of which he was elaborating for the next Artist's Exhibition. This year, Mr Eastwood fixed Upon Nelson and surrounding districts for his art-wandering:-;, and yesterday, whilst l)iithi::.ii in the Maiti river, he was suddenly drowned. Whether he was seized with cram]), or what Mas the immediate cause of the accident, we are not informed, but not lveing a swimmer, Mr Eastwood lost his life. Mr Eastwood was sixty-two years of age, and had been in Auckland about fourteen years, lie wa^ from London, and resided nuinvfyoar?; in Hackney, where he took a leading part in the once flourishing Literary Institute of that wealthy part of the metropolis, and where be first' appeared us a lecturer on the Elizabeihian period of English History. Mr Eastwood followed (he occupation of a law writer, or convey aiiring cleric, and while in Ui.it capacity, became familiar by constant reading with <be fads of history, occasionally sketching such historical buildings as Lambeth Palace, and the Tower of London. Nor was Mr Eastwood inattentive to the politi c.iil questions of his time, and both at honi" and in New Zealand, occasionally appeared on the platform. On reaching Auckland, Mr Eastwood found that, like many Others, lie must struggle to live ; and a bard struggle it was with him for some time. Persons in Auckland yet remember the wandering artist, ollcring hi.s simple sketches to the people for a shilling or two. As he said to the writer, " I have known what it is to be close-driven in Auckland, and compelled to sell pictures for bread." He was subsequently employed in his own old line by solicitors in the city. Brighter days however, were in. store for the artist, and a considerable fortune w?is bequeathed to him by a relative in England. Mr Eastwood then felt the freedom, and enjoyed tlie blessings of in dependence. About live years ago he built a commodious house at Onehunga, famished a splendid studio, an art gallery, and a library of about one thousand volumes, and resolved upon a life of social pleasure and literary retirement. He was for along time president of tho artists' society in Auckland, produced many paintings (of more or less merit), and delivered a number of essays on various subjects at local mutual societies, especially at Pitt-street, where he will be Jong remembered. We have known him to walk from Onehunga to Auckland on a wet night, in the pelting rain, rather than dis appoint an audience.

CABLEGRAMS.

THE CONFERENCB.-REY. P. H CORNFORD IN HARNESS.

SYDNEY, January 22. The Premier, the Treasurer, and Post master-General represent us at the Con ference. No further cases small-pox have been discovered. The Rev. P. H. Cornford, from Auck land, entered upon his duties at the Baptist. Church, Bathurst, yesterday.

THE KATIKATI SPECIAL SETTLE MENT.

(To the Editor). _ Yesterday's " Herald" contains an account of 1 lie visit of tho Honourable Dr. Pollen to the Katikati special settlement, and one or two of the statements comprised therein demand looking into. After expatiating " a*l uauseum" on the " demonstrations of welcome" to Dr. Pollen —bontires illuminat ing his entire progress up the river to his arrival at tiie Waitara Pioneer store, which has been ho successfully (?) started by the enterprising proprietors, Messrs Shepherd and Wylie, and generally advertising people " on the cheap"—the Herald's correspondent tells how Dr. Pollen landed, was received by Mr Robert Hunter, and driven in a " tax cart" to that gentleman's residence, where the Lord of Mount Stewart and other of the principal settlers had been invited to meet him, and how the Honourable Daniel was presented on the next morning with an address, containing among other highly satisfactory and truthful (?) statements the following very specially remarkable one : " A. proposition has been made by us (alias OJeorge Vesey Stewart) to the present Gov ernment through our leader, Mr Stewart, for the extension of the block by 10,000 acres, which we were rejoiced to find, had met with the favourable consideration of the Honorable the Premier. We however ] regret that the terms proposed by the | 'Waste Lands Board in Auckland will totally i preclude our taking fiction in the matter." j I am sure Mr. Stew&rt, at least I should imagine that gentleman will not feel obliged to fchja correspondent for this statement, it beiiis simply contrary to few^ $H& V 4. i

doubtless he will himself contradict it. I will content myself by merely saying that before extending the area of the Katikatt special settlement, it might be as well for the Waste Lands Board to see that the remarkably favorable conditions under which it has been given to the settlers are complied with, because on enquiry and examination it may turn out that a third of the original aroa (10,000 acres) is not located upon, and that the parties for whom it was originally selected (when Mr. Tole was in Taurang'a locating the settlers, September last year) by Mr. Stewart and others, are not even in the colony, nor likely to arrive !—I am, Sir, " ONE WHO HAPPENS TO KNOW.

COURT OF PETTY SESSIONS. This Day.

(Before G. M. Mitford Esq., (chairman) and P. Comiskie, and T. Chficseman, Esqs., Justices of the Peace.) THE COMMON FAILING, Three cases of drunkenness were sub jected to tho Inevitable penalty. LUNACY. Richard Young was charged with being of unsound mind, and upon the medical testimony of Dip. Lee and Stockwell; was committed to the Whan Asylum. V A OK ANTS. Women, whiskied. strange and queer, Approaching rapidly their "bior." Mary Robinson, and Annie Carroll were brought up under the Vagrant Act, with being habitual drunkards, and without law ful visible means. Robinson, who made a wretched appear ance in Court, wns sentenced to one year's imprisonment. Annie Carroll pleaded not guilty. Detective Jeffrey stated that Annie was the "lady" of Abercrombie-strect, arid presented "a petition to tho Court from tho inhabitants of that locality, for her speedy removal. Detective Grace corroborated; prisoner was a most abandoned character. Frederick Bujjdcn deposed that the pri soner was the disturber of the peaceof the street: lie had known her for a long time as a drunkard, and nuisance to the neighbour hood. Her languago was of the filthiest description. A number of tho inhabitants were present to testify to prisoners bad conduct, but the Court thought that it was unnecessary to trouble them. Three months' imprisonment with hard labor. A BEAST. A man named Chapman, a. blacksmith, was charged with wilfully exposing him self in the public street yesterday, in the presence of a number of females. Sub-Inspector Pardy said this was the worst case of the kind that had ever come under the notice of the police. Four months' imprisonment with hard labor. A LITTLE HELL. ITe wns brought up, and rightly so. l*Yoin horrid scones of vice and woo. .John Hcnlv. )i notorious! broth el-keeper, of Abcrcrombie-strcp.t, was charged under tho Vagrant Act, with being the occupier of a house, known as the " Rogues Retreat." Ifealy said lie was not a rogue and vaga bond, bo occupied a hnuflc, and had a vote. Detective Jeffrey said prisoner was a notorious loafer, and one of the most wonderful of loafers. He did nothing but pick up young girls, dress them up, make them drunk with rum, and take them to his house. Prisoner: Mr Jeffrey, I'm not a loaf or. I'm n rispictablc fishmonger. I work hard for a living. Detective Jeffrey deserilied the house as a den of thieve* find prostitutes. Detective Grace corroborated. The prisoner had a dark room rtfc the back of his premises, and whenever h'^ made his ap pearance prisoner invariably locked tho jrirl<j in tlio hsiP.lc room. RolibmuGS bad taken place in prisoner's house. Mr Bugdcn spoke as to prisoner's general character. TTo was continually on the watch for young girls.

Mr Daniel Bates, Mr Win. Scott, of Mount-street, and others, spoke of the prisoner's place as a den of corruption, and flic hot-bed of vice.

The Bench regretted that it could not punish the prisoner according to his de merits. Ho nmst go to gaol with hard labour for twelve months. DOMESTIC. Joseph Hall, a respectable looking man whs charged with attempting to choke his wife fit Newmarket. Mr Hcsketh appeared for the informant, and Mr Tyler for defendant. Mr Tyler saicl that informant'had {liven way to drink, and when in such a plight, another voice spoke, and another power actuated him. Mr Hall was exceedingly sorry, and had no serious intention of choking his wife. Mr Heskcth said lie should he sorry to widen the breach between the husband and wife, but Mr Hall's conduct had been of ho violent a character, that Mrs Hall did not feel safe in the same house. The Court said that in June hist, Mrs Hall was obliged to get a protection order, and liis conduct towards her had been very violent. He must find sureties to keep the peace for six months, himself in £100, and two sureties in £50 each. AT THE NOKTir SHORE. Samuel Green was charged with assault ing James Conlon, at the North Shore yes terday. Mr Heskcth, on the part of defendant, pleaded not guilty. After a good deal of confused evidence, the Court was of opinion that, notwith { standing Conlon's inability to state his own case, a severe blow had been struck, and lined defendant 20s and costs. SUMMONS CASKS. Arthur Wood was charged with riding across a foot-path at Ponsonby, but as the constable shewed that he could not get at Mr Dacre's. house in any other way, the Bench dismissed the case. George Routh, and Arthur Smith were similarly charged, and dismissed. George Routh was then charged with galloping round Shortland-street, on the 16th mst. Fined 10s and costs. Patrick Mulcahy pleaded guilty to leav ing iiis horse and cart unattended and unchained in Queen-street. Fined 5s and costs. William Gray, for the same offence, was fined ~>s and costs. William Fagan was charged with the same offence. Michael Shanaghan appeared for him, and said that 33111 was away in the Waikato and he would suffer for him. Fined 5s and costs. James Herbert, for driving on the footpath! in Franldyn Road, said he Avas guilty, but acted on the advice of others, who had evidently misled him. Sub-Inspector Pardy said this was the case. Fined Is and costs. Robert Baynes was charged with in truding across the new pathway in Napier street. Little Robert pleaded guilty under circumstances of a peculiar nature. He bawled " Meat 0 !" for five minutes, and the flies wore thick upon the mutton ; the people did not hear, and he rode across the path to the house. Fined 5s and costs. 1 FORGING AND UTTERING.

Robert L. Remington was again brought up on a charge of forging and uttering a cheque for £10, purporting to be signed by Mr Samuel Momn, with intent to defraud Frederick Archard.

Sub-luspectov Pftrdy paid that lie must ask tor another remand iv this case, as the poUce had received other infomatioa. and tue prmwp) wifavM was in the Wnikato, ' AWKUUKm HirtU Tuesday uex^

Extraordinary Will Case.

An old Settler Charges his Son ia-Law with Fraud.

A ITiaotoQath Oeatury Bomanoe.

[BY TELEGRAPH.]

DUNEDIN, this day. Tins case of Thomas Robertson v. D«ivid INI Ross and another, now being tried by Jnd<'C Williams and a special jury, is an extraordinary case, about which more is likely to be heard- Messrs Macasscy and Stewart are for the plaintiffs, and Messrs Stout, Garrick, and Church for defendants; Mr Howorth appears for Mrs Miller the mother of plaintiff, and her daughter. The leading facts of the case were thus stated by "Mr Macassey :-The V^f> close upon eighty years old, brought this action against his son-in-law to sot aside a deed of conveyance, dated 1860, which dealt with property of considerable value, on the oround that "the execution w=ws obtained by fraud. The case might possibly involve charges of forgery ami perjury, but apart from its grave character, it had a most romantic aspect. The property at stake was probably not under the value of £8 000 Mrs Ross, the co-defendant and daughter of plaintiff, he was willing to believe, had been the unhappy dupe ot tic craft of defendant, her husband lhe plaintiff had been resident m Andersons Bay district a great number of years, fine had been married three times. He had several children who were married and tolerably woll-to-do, but prior to the execu tion of 'this deed he had not conveyed any of his property to either of his children except by will. According to the present deed, the plaintiff would appear to have conveyed all his property, real and persona to defendants, and hare left himselt without—in fact, anything, excepting a life interest in the property said to be con veyed Mr Ross, the defendant, came to Otago from Scotland, and shortly after Ins arrival here made a proposal for tho hand of Jane, the plaintiff's younger daughter. Tho young couple were married on the 7th July 186S, and for seven months were resident in the house of Mrs Robertson. Some time after this, Mr Robertson, who had previously made his will, expressed his intention of making another one, altering the provisions of the former will. Mr Ross bcinga man of superior understanding to the old man, and having been well brought up, by degrees worked himself: into Robertson's confidence, and after a while the plaintiff put implicit confidence and trust in him. He told Ross of his intention to alter his will, and said he was going to see Donnic Stewart, bis lawyer, about it. He also said it was his purpose to devise his property at Anderson's Bay to Mrs Ross, his youngest daughter, and that at Tomahawk to Mrs Miller, another of his children ; the balance of his property to lie disposed of in various ways. Upon Robertson saying he would get a lawyer to do the conveyancing for him, Ross offered his services, to save expense, and the end of the matter was that plaintiff brought a deed, to Ross, and left the business in his hands. On the 13th May, ISfiO, which was the day of the exe cution of the deed,it was sought to impeach, Ross met his father-in-law, Mr Robertson, in Dunedin, and said that everything was arranged, and all that remained was for them to go to some hotel, and finish the business. The two forthwith adjourned to an hotel, and there met one Harold, and Ross told him Robertson was going to make liir; will, and asked him to come and attest the signature. The trio went into the hotel, and Mr Miller was called in, to also attest the signing of the paper. The document was not read over to Robertson, and Miller at once demurred to signing a document the contents of which he was ignorant of. However, Mr Robertson said, "itis only my will," and Miller then affixed the attest ing .signature. The will, as believed by Robertson, turned out to be a deed conveying to Ross and his wife the peninsula and Tomahawk .districts, in short all the old man's property. A singu lar circumstance transpired. Harold, one of the attcstants, was afterwards asked to say the deed had been executed at Ander son's Bay. He objected, but subsequently swore upon affidavit that such was the case. Some time after this, Robertson, wishing to do some fencing on his lands, discovered that an encumbrance existed affecting his title. Ross, tho son-in-law, evidently endeavoured to keep up a system of deception, and asked Robertson the Old man for an acre of land on the peninsula for his wife to live on, as she was delicate, and a deed to that effect was executed, but never registered. When the plaintiff found out there was incuinbrance to the title he asked Ro"s how he dared meddle with his (Robertson's) property. He said he would make an other will, but would give Ross n chance of settling things right, andexprcssed a desire that both of them should see the document. With this idea they repaired to the Glasgow pie house, and Mrs Robert son hearing of the conferences placed her self in a convenient position and overheard all the conversation. Mrs Robertson heard Ross ask Robertson to sign a document which he refused to do, and at last she couldstanrl.no more, but rushed into the room, and implored Mr. Blighter who was one of the party, to abstain from taking any part in the proceedings. A scene now ensued, but eventually' the two men separated without doing any business. No effort w.-ts spared by Robertson to set him self right with his son-in-law, but in vain. He could not put Ross into the witness box, and ask him, with any hope of getting a satisfactory answer, why he had left 'the employment of Park and Curie, and had beat a hasty retreat out of Otago, for the law did not compel a man to criminate himself. The fact was, Robertson knew not where his son had run away to, until he received a LETTER FROM HIM, DATED FROM AUCKLAND. This letter, which" pointed to ,some offences committed, expressed a hope that the writer's name would be blotted out from the memories of the people of Ota^o Ross Mas afterwards heard of at Timaru where he had got into business. One fact might, throw light on the case and explain how it was fcliat Ross was able to draw up the deeds so correctly. It was this, that be fore his arrival here he had been a Notary public in Scotland, and had been trained in a lawyer's office. On the Bth of March, 18/0, another deed was said to have been executed, by Robertson, ratifying the dead of 1869. Harold could say he witnessed Robertson's signature to a paper covered, excepting a place for sign ing, with a blotting pad, and believed the old man was under the impression when he signed the latter paper, that lie was merely giving away an acre of land mentioned, to Ross.

■ EXAMINATION OF ROSS. I lie defendant, Ross, in his oxamination which lasted the greater part of the day S b i efore the execution of the deed of 1569 it was understood Mrs Miller Avas to get the .Tomahawk Block, and it was con yeyedtohim because Mrs Miller and her husband were not on good terms, and Robertson wished to get them separated. When.subsequently the deed of gift to Mrs Miller was made, the uifierencc had been made up. Frequent conversation had taken place between the defendant and several members of the r!ovK ya*wi diapoaol of pro. perty. When he left Messrs Vark and turlc he conveyed to them his woportv in compensation lor deaoieaey in h vljf m»HH,,thig m \v«k rf (i tei 'l,v «,, , tilt ; about £200. Tbn Wwriy lie ec«ve??f I S

si<med had been drafted by Mr Stamper and engrossed by himself, as plaintiff Ba id he had a horror of solicitors, and would not <r 0 to one to have the deeds he wanted p re . pared. Witness denied having stated t<f i Thomas Robertson, son of the plaintiff that 2H he had "done" the old man now, but would make it all right with tho family after the old man was dead, and give him (theson)the Tomahawk property. He might have said to Mr Inglis that he would make it a U right with the family ; but that was only to get rid of him, as he (Inglis) came to him in such a mysterious manner, aDd en deavoured. to pump him. Inglis had an eye to a ten-acre block on top of the hill, wanted him (witness) to promise him that The roason given by Robertson for the con*, veyancc of the Tomahawk property to Mrs Miller was that he (Robertson had niado an oath to his wife (mother of Mrs Miller) on her death bed that Mrs Miller should have that property, but it was first conveyed to witness for the reason already stated, the ultimate conveyance of tho property to Mrs Miller being left to the honour of witness.

To Kopura.

ANOTHER 100 MILES PLIGHT.

[PER STAR CARRIER PIGEONS.]

. , , 8 a.m. THK Weightongall arrived from Melbourne on Sunday, after a quick run across of tan days. She brought a paper containing the Suez telegrams. The Sarah Pile arrived from Westport on Sunday, to load piles for that port, NARROW ESCAPE OF THE BRIGAN. Captain McKenzio, the pilot, who hag arrived from the Heads, reports thebrigan. tine Flora, from Lyttulton, had a narifaf escape from becoming a total -wreck in entering the Kaipara on Friday evening. The vessel struck on tho Mary Catherine Bank, and lost her anchor with 30 fathoms of chain. She remained in that position for four hours, and with the rising tide finally bumped over. Captain Hughes, with the assistance of the pilots, had the vessel beached, when he found he had sustained considerable damages. The Flora was bound for Aratapu. Captain Hughes left for Auckland yesterday, to confer with the Insurance Company. The barque Ansdell arrived # on Friday, and passed down to Hclensville to load timber. The Reliance sailed on Saturday, but anchored at the heads, where a strongS.W: wind is blowing. The Pakeha is loaded and ready for sea, A MAORI LUNATIC/ A Maori named Tokomatc was brought before Mr Walker, J.P., to-day, and ordered to be sent to the Auckland Lunatic Asylum, He had been dangerous for some time, and on Thursday and Friday went about with a spear and tomahawk threatening to kill anyone who came in his way. With the assistance of a Maori chief th^. maniac was secured, tied with ilax, brought into Kopura, and handed over to Constable Gannon; who will bring him to Auckland by first steamer. He is very violent. ARATAPU. The Thomas Henry and Argosy are still loading and will sail about Wednesday. DARGAVILLK (LATE KAIHU.J Freshes lately have brought down a large quantity of logs for various mills. MANGAWAREI. The cutter Hero was to sail for Helens ville on Sunday. She is a regular trader here now ; also, the schooner Sea Breeze, from Otamatea, and the Florence, from Port Albert.

LATEST.

Te KOPURA, 10 a.m. this day. The Torca arrived from Timaru on Satur- . day, after a passage of 14 days. Shews oft"'the Kaipara Heads last Monday, but was driven back to Taranaki "by a strong gale. EXTRAORDINARY PROLIPIOA.CY! FIVE CHILDREN AT A BIRTH!!! A half-caste woman in the district of Dar gaville/has given birth to live children, and four are living. THEATRICAL. Tom Burton, Mr and Mrs F. Wilton, ami Miss Fanny Downey (Variety Troupe) ar rived at Dargavillc Township per Sarah Pile. After playing at various settlements, they will go on to Auckland. The Flora will load at Aratapu for Wei- 1 linutoii. The Zephyr and Marmion arrived yester- I day. The Wellington, Reliance, Pakelia, Dim- I edin, and Flora are at tlie Heads for orders. I

THE ALL ENGLISH CRICKET MATCH.

Tms meeting of the Selection Committee at which the iinal choice of the Auckland team • -was to be made, was held at the Thames Hotel last night, and we were glad to sec that all the members were present. Mr. Lankham was voted to the chair. Then followed a keen Mill interesting discussion of the merits, ana ac- I merits of a host of players, out of wbom, alter i due deliberation, the following were selected:-- 1 C. Abraham (Auckland CO.), VV. F. BucMM (United O,C), Joseph Bennett (Nortb. Shore CO.), 11. E. Cotton (Auckland CO.), G. Carter I (United C.C.), H. Crawford (Thames), 1.-* | Dufaur (United G.C.), G. Glce^on (United C.C.I, | H. N. Garland (Auckland C.O.),Kont (Auoklantt CO.), G. Lankham (United CO.), D. Lynch (United C.C\ .T. Mumford (United CO.), 1- B Macky (West End CO.), W, W. Kobtason (Thames), \V. L. Kccs (North Shore CM, J: I Steadman (Thames), W. 11, Simcox -(Bay ra Islands). W. Swanson (North Shore C.C.U« Whitford (Thames), H. B, Whitakcr fUmted CO.), ]{. J. Yates (United CO.). Kaicraency men :— W. Philson (Auckland CO, F. Wells (North Shore C.C.), Blundeii (Auckland CO.), R. Mason (West. End C.C.). . ~M , Arrangements have been made for practices every afternoon this week, and it is particularly requested that every one in the tcam_will aonw best to attend them. Messrs Hill and Fenton will supply the uniform cap to any of thetwciit}* two who will call at. their shop. The nn«w£ in which Hie Auckland men will play, is wbite jersey and trousers, and blue cap with vnuw piping. . .

WELLINGTON REGATTA.

THE SECRET AND TRANSIT

WINNERS.

The regatta at Wellington took place yester day, and was fortunately tine, though some what too rough for rowing. The first event of importance was the first-class yacht race Entrance, £2 2s. First prize, New Zea land Slapping Company's cup and £%>> ftccond prize, £10 (if four" boats start, other wise, only £5.) The prize was carried"" by the Auckland vessel, the Secret, vrlucß won with the greatest ease, the Minnehaua of Wellington coming in second. .The nexi event was the Coasters' Pace. Entrance, £2 2s. First prize, Shaw, Savill & Co.'scup and £25 ; second prize, £10. This was W « by another Auckland vessel, the Transit, the Clio of Auckland beiug second, aud tne Cynthia (Wellington), third. Next camctw Whaleboat Race.—Entrance, £1 Is. ■£* prize, £15; second prize £5. were three enterics for this race, «w Danger (Timaru), Black Diamond pulled by coal-heavers, and another, i The Danger kept the lead for three miles, when she was passed DJ > the Black Diamond, which came i» ™s* j The Danger came in rowing one oar short) i and a protest was then entered by he*'o«* against the Black Diamond on an alleges foul. —Junior Four-oarf Inriggeci Gig Kacc-J Entrance, 10s ©d : first prize, £10 ;■ seconj $| prize, £3: The Timaru crew and the ciej i \ of the Dolly Varden entcvod, The «'{■■* had to give in after tile first mile, theu boat being almost swamped, ' THKEE MEN DROWNED* During the second-class yacht vm • I boat beldngiujj to the telegraph steftnw* Agnea eapsised off Soanie Island, *o|S* nsiely. a pleasure boat tilled witU WW fi Wr?4 n.i Miv tl;o sceuo of the ooe.uientj B»| p^k«a up the tiu-ee wwn one d$ P I I

THE EVENING STAR, TimsTUY. JANUARY 23, 1877



ws3*3*-. AUCKLAND STEAM PACKET COMPANY -i^-sssss- (LIMITED). FOR GISBORNE AND NAPIER. The s.s. GO-AHEAD will leave Auckland for the. above ports on THURSDAY, 25th January, at 1 o'clock p.m. W. LODDER, Manager and Engineer. T COSGRAVE&CO Beg to announce they will bring forward A Fresh Lot of B A R G A I N S! ! ! Consisting of HEIR LATF- SHIPMENT BY THE ORARI, Purchased at Homo at Job Prices, together with the whole of their (SUMMER DRAPERY «fc CLOTHING, REDUCED IN PRICK TO SUIT THE TIMES !



Several Bales of CATj IC O, damaged by sea ■water, will he. Sold junior Invoice Prioo. "XT O T I C E DRAPERY GOODS, NEW AND CHEAP!! The undersigned have Purchased at Auction a LARGE LOT of NEW DRAPERY GOODS, ■>ust landed ex City of Auckland, the whole of which having been bought at much under the usual Warehouse Rates, they can afford to offer to their Customers at Very Low Phicks. The Parcel comprises : — Grey Calico, various qualities, from /3-Vd yard Strong White Oaiico at ,'i yard, or 3/10 doz. 72-in. Grey Sheeting, 1/ yard, good quality 72-in. & SO-in. White Twill Sheeting 72-in., 80-in. & 90-in. Croydon Sheeting, 1/6 yard Huckaback Towels, good, ,'G each, 5/9 doz. White and Unbleached Damask and Damask Table Cloths, from 2/6 9/i, 10/1 & 11/1 Alhatnbra Quilts, good qualities, 3/11 Rough Brown Holland, from /o yard Half-dressed ditto, superior quality, very cheap at /10i and 1/ Black Lustre, and superior quality Black Bril liantine Lustres New Prints, good patterns, at /ij, /51, and /G, very cheap Harvard Shirting, good quality, 111 yard Fine Irish Linen, lot of Remnants, a bargain, from 1/4 yard Gents' Br. Cotton Half-hose do. Z.I merino feet Grey and Fancy Striped MeHuj Kalf-hose, and other goods too mimerou.j to mention. All Purchasers of Drapery and Clothing should inspect our Stock, and prove that although not selling OFF, we are giving fuj.l value fok MONEY. itW One Shilling in the £ returned on all pur chases of 20s. and upwards. RUSH BROOK & BRIDGMAN, Upper Qokbn-strbbt, Auckland.



MERC HAN TS, AGENTS, and '■-'others, can have Office Books Ruled and Bound, any pattern, to suit requirements. Magazines, Music, and other Works bound in all styles, by WILLIAM LEYS, Bookbinder, Machine Ruler, and Account Book Manufac turer, next door to Evening Stab office, Wyndham-street. KUMERAS. —Just Landed, ex Canter bury from Norfolk Island, the best ihip men yet as to quality, of this delicious esculent. Apply at once to Adam Laybourn, Fort-street. AVELOCK HOUSE, Symonds-strect. Private Apartments ; also. Vacancies for Single Gentlemen.—Mrs. Morlcy's, second house above Choral Hall. LODGE SI. ANDREW, No. 418, S.C. The Regular Monthly Meeting of this Lodge will be held in the Lodge-room, Star Hotel, Albert-street, THIS EVENING, 22nd instant, at 7.30 p.m. By order of the R.W.M. GEORGE PAYNE, Secretary. Auckland, 22nd January, 1577. JfVRJXIIURE! FURXTITU BE!



Ladies and Gentlemen about to Furnish are respect fully requested to inspect the Large Stack of 1)11 A WING -800 M, D rXIFG?- -ROOM BEDROOM, AND GENERAL MO USE ft OLD FURNIT URE, In our New oavX Spacions Shovjrooms T. & m'ddOKJEI, 67. QUSEXSTUBEV Adjoining Bank of A'ew Zealand



RSwindleks are putting up imitations of Udol- Pho Wolfe's Schiedam aromatic Schnapps in bottles which formerly contained that stand ard medicinal beverage, and in many instances labelling their vile compounds with the name of the genuine article.' This artful imposture ja particularly detestable, Binec it is caleuktcd to BMKjMfliSf* of amm S9UVC"