SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

,„„,, „, ~n , ,n (This Afternoon, Q55 HIGH WATER—-j To . morrow Morning,:7.l9 SUN • S ET.—This E veiling. -7.1S SUN"*E.ISB. —To-morrow Morning, 4.W MOON'S AGE.—Full Moon, 2<K,cj 11.30 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

DEPARTURES. Rotonvc-. s.s., Macfarlaiic, for Sydney. ■ Rowen;,'-', s.s.,- Cellars, for Mercury Bay and

Tauranga. , Ltetitia^schooner, for Blenhiem. Gotten "Isle, s-hoouer. Watts, for Bussel.l. Hineme^ Govt. yacht, for Kawau and Cape Vj,n Dieman.

EXPORTS.

Per T-aranaki. for New Plymouth.:— 1 J-cask- whisky, I 1 box, 1 package, : >2o cases, 30 packages, Owen and Graham. 4 bales leather, Ireland Brothers. Per Rotorna, ior Sydney : leases sauce, 1 box gold, 25 bales fungus, i cases stationery, and original cargo from South. 91 casks «U, Owen and Graham.

Thes.s. Taupo leaves for Tauranga and the South at 4 o'clock this afternoon. The schooner Leetitia sailed yesterday for Blcnhiem, with a cargo of timber, doors,-and The barque passed by the City of Sydney off the Three Kings last Tuesday was the Mary Ann Annison. now'overdue from Meibovrne. She may be expeetad at any moment. faThas.s! Southern Cross is on Me; srs Sims and ■ Rcown'a sip a* the North Shore, where ©he is having her bottom cleaned and painted. The s s. Kotorua sailed for Sydney yesterday afternoon. witSi-i,he following passengers-. Mr and Mrs Laishlev and child, Mr and Mrs Jacjues aid 5 children, Mr and Mrs Mander, Mr and vtrs Bardsley, Mr and Mrs Trent, Mr and Mrs Jones, Mr arid Miss Meyers, Mrs Reid and 4 children. Mrs IV.mo. Miss Balmcr. Messrs Lsifce. Kwiiijr, Boit, Brcntill, Dyer, Williams, Keacr Miles Summers, Jeflfccd, Sherwood Jones,'Chater' Maeflonald, O'Connor, Campbell, Kent, Payne, BrOHWu'lii Pfahl, Smith, Donald, and 15Chinamen...EEcndorson and Macfarlane, a^rhß°'s.s. Rowena sailed for Tauranga and Mercu y Bay last nigfet with several passengers. ~ The schooner Eliza nmlgMary left Newcastle on the 14th inst. with ecni, for Kaipara. The barque Loch Urr.., Captain Murdock. both well known in this port, arrived at Adelaide oa the 4th inst, after a good passage of d days from London. ~ , ~ ~ VSouthem telegraminforms us that the well known barque Glenlora reached Lyttelton yes terday afr.er a good passage of 90 days from Th? S s. Go-ahead sailed from Gisborne for Auckland yesterday, and wiS-arrive to-morrow m The new steamer Mahaka, recently launched by Mevrs Holmes and XeWbnrn at the North Shore for the Napier tra.de, teak an engineers trial trip in harbour yesterday, which was eminently successful. This litt'-e steamer looks like turning out a success. V. e%are already referred to flier tuild, but will venture to describe her once more. She is a screw steamer of'about 20 tons register, and haying a length of keel of 53ft, depth of hold, Gtt. bin. Her engine is IS h.T> .and was manufactured by Mr McCokrie. Both boiler and engine crive great satisfaction. The Mahaka is built on the diagonal principle, and is a strong and service able craft Mr Light, the engineer who Uas superintended the work of construction throughout, expresses himself most gratiiiod with the efforts that have been expended to male* it a good job. The Mahaka leaves for the Thames to-day, where she is to run the offi cial trial trip tMs afternoon in the presence of Mr Jobson, the Government Inspector. The rate of speed will approximate eight knots. The ship Faraenoth was ben ling sails to-day in preparation for her departure for LOndO", which is fixed to take place on the 29th mst. a Imost the whole of ke? cargo is now on board, and her passenger accommodation is well taken up The Famenoth'a cargo, like that of the City of Auckland, is mostly gum. wool, and ta low. She will go away in splendid trim, and 13 ex pected to make a arood passage. The remainder Of the cargo, which comprises about 100 tons, is already ensasred, and will be on board by Christmas Day. Only two berths f.re vacant m the saloon, and we beiieve these will be engaged within the next day or two. The ship City of Auckland is to sail for Loni on immediate^ after the Christmas holidays. The following is the cargo already on board:—3,ooo cases gum. 1,400 bales wool, 10 tons bark. 90 cask tallow. 400 bales flax, 150 tons manganese, 12 bales old rope, i do. canvass, 5 pieces kauri plank 12 packages sundries, 50 bales and cases leather.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

MAtr,s wim. Ct.osk as Undkr: For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m., ana to morrow, at noon and 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, per Argylc, to-morrow, at 2.30 For Napier, per Southern Cross, to-morrow, at 4 p.m. . For Waiwera, Mann ran gi, Matakana, Manga wai, Waipu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Anne Milbank, on Saturday next, at 10 a.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, Wangaraa, and Mon gonui, per lona, on Monday next, at 1 p.m. • For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Wellington, on Monday next, at 7 p.m. For Russell and Kawakawa, per Wanaka, on Monday next, at 7 p.m. For Wangarci Heads, Wainu. Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Argyle, on Monday" next, at 7 p.m. Per s.s. Australia, on Tuesday, Bth January, 1878, as follows : - For Sandwich Inlands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 3 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 3 p.m. • For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 1.30 p.m. Late letters, bearing an extra fee of Ccl, in addition to the postage, will be received by the mail agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. —Tuesday next, 25th instant, being a liday, the maiie usually despatched on will bo closed the previous eveningl, at

S. B. BIS 3. Chief Postmaster.*

BIRTHS.

SPBAKMAN.—On 29th November, at Tologa Bay, the wife of Mr. William H. Speakman of a son. - -

WARNOCK.—On the 19th December, at her residence, Karangahape Road, Mrs. Richard Warnock of a son.

DEATHS.

CHAPMAN.—On the 20th. December. Emily Mary, the beloved wife of John Chapman, ased dO years. ' ■ The funeral will leave her ]ate residence to morrow, at 3 p.m. Friends please accept this intimation.

O'CALLAGHAN.—On the 19th December, at Shamrock Cottage, Mount Eden, aged 1" years and 10 months, Eleanor Mina, eldest daughter of William G. P. and Charlotte Matilda G'Callasrhan.

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

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 1877.

Poi the cauic that Jacks assistance J^o> the futuvs is '.be distance,

/.c4 IBS (rood thst ire eta £».

LEADING articles, correspondence, and a large amount of local matter, has been crowded out to-day by the length of our reports. We would direct attention to the important cablegrams from our special London correspondent to-day. Osman Pasha, the hero of Plevna, lias committed suicide, under feelings excited by the Moslem conviction that the loss ■of a limb involves a similar deprivation in Paradise. His recent wound, it appears, necessitated amputation, to which he refused to submit. The announcement that the British parlia ment has been called together for January has naturally excited uneasiness. We believe, however, that tiie tenor of English feeling i.s so strongly adverse to partici

pation in the present war, that whatever, the wishes of Earl Beaconsfield's Cabinet may be, a majority of the House of. Commons will veto any attempt to embroil.: a prosperous and happy nation in a uselos-s and disastrous struggle. The electiongof a Christian President of the Representative Assembly at Stamboul shews, that the lessons of the last few months have not been lost upon the Porte.

Among the numerous institutions of Hamilton which give a permanent aspect to the ■ township, . and render complete its facilities of supplying settlers with all necessaries, is the Pharmacy, under the proprietorship of Messrs Saudes and Co. At this establishment a stock is kept which would do credit to Queen-street. The long experience which Ms Sandes has had in his profession is a guarantee that the fullest coufideuce may be piaccd in his manipulation of chemicals. Our attention has been called to a para graph iv our issue of Monday last, which stated that the Very Rev. Father Fynes, V.G., had granted the use of the public hall at West Tamaki for an entertainment in aid of the Presbyterian Sunday School Library Fund. We are assured that no such per mission was granted by Father Fynes, as no application for the use of any hall was made to him eithci orally or in writing.

We understand that it is the intention of Sir George Grey to pay his intended visit to the King natives towards the end of January next. He will leave Wellington for Hawea, and will proceed from thence to Te Kuiti, the place of meeting, and not through Waikato, as was anticipated. One of the citizens, who is gifted with n very large circle of nephews and nieces, intends, on Friday, to offer a rare oppor tunity for making Christmas and New Year gifts. Young gentlemen who wish to propitiate their fair charmers, and to hasten the happy day, should not allow the oppor tunity to pass by. Uncle Neumegen, in the kindness of his heart, has determined on Friday next fco make a great sacrifice of unredeemed pledges, in order to facilitate the matrimonial arrangements now on the tapis, and to gladden the hearts and orna ment the persons of the fair maidens and gallant youths of Auckland. Besides these, however, uncle Neumegen ©Hers many bargains to Benedicts and their spouses.

We perceive that the Royal Society of Musicians has lately received some iutorest ing gifts to add to the choice souvenirs of the great departed already in its possession at their rooms, Lisle-street, Leicester Square. The first is a proof engraving of theportrait of the late Sir W. Sterndale Bennett, signed by the artist and engraver, Millcies and Barlow. This fine work of art was presented to the Society, framed and with a suitable inscription, by the late eminent musician's daughter, Mrs Case. There is an artist's proof engraving in the possession of Mr J. H. Bealc, of the Graf ton Road, who wo are informed would be happy to allow any musical person being desirous, an opportunity of inspecting it. Mr Wright, a member of the American firm of G. Wright and Co., famous as the compilers of the great catalogue of the Philadelphia Exiliibition, has arrived in Auckland on a tour through New Zealand, for the purpose of completing the colonial portion of the " American and Australian Commercial Directory," which is being got up on a large scale. The directory will be an annual production, and is expected to facilitate commercial relations between America and the colonies. Mr Wright has taken up his residence at the Victoria Hotel.

In accordance with an invitation presented to him, Sir George Grey last evening inspected the various Volunteer Companies of Auckland, and expressed his satisfaction at their general appearance. The following Companies were inspected : Nixon Light Horse, Artillery, Navals, No. 3, Victoria, Engineers, Hobsons, and Scottish. At the conclusion of the inspection the men were formed into column, and proceeded through the town, the various bands playing during the march. Sir George Grey has desired the officer commanding the district to convey to the volunteers the great pleasure ho ex perienced in observing their smart and orderly appearance, and his approval of their soldier-like steadiness on parade. The Premier was further pleased to express his regret that the lateness of the hour pre vented his seeing Ih Jvoluntecrs drilled, but hopes before long to have an opportunity of so doing.

The United States Minstrels who arrived here by the P.M.S.S. City of Sydney, will open in the Theatre Royal this evening. The company is an unusually strong one, and comprises the names of old Auckland favourites. Not the least amongst these may be mentioned Mr G. W. Rockefeller, who acted as manager for the California Minstrels while playing in New Zealand several years ago. We also notice the name of Mr Hermann, the wonderful violinist. No doubt the Theatre Royal will be largely patronised this evening. We are assured by Mr J. C. Brown that there is not the slightest foundation for the report that ke intended to sever his connec tion with the Government party.

Several bankrupt cases came before His Honor, Mr Justice Gillies, in the Supreme Court yesterday. The first was that of Arthur Utting, of Hokianga, but now in custody for want of bail. The application for his discharge was renewed under the civil process. Mr Pevore appeared for tlu; bankrupt, and Mr A. E. Whitaker for the opposing creditors. His Honor could not grant the certificate under the circum stances. In the case of *j William Matthew Moyle, the conditions were complied with, mid his discharge granted. In re John Tudehope, Mr Lusk appeared for the debtor, and informed the Court that since the meeting of his creditors the bankrupt had left this part of the province. He was in a situation at Canterbury. His Honor ruled that according to the Act the bank rupt must be examined, and refused to dis charge him in his absence.

A meeting of creditors in the estate of Meredith Rountree was called this morning in the Supreme Court -Buildings, but none were present. The bankrupt's liabilities were £ISS 10s lid; assets, nil. Mr Thomas MacfFarlane was appointed trustee to the estate. .

By yesterday's excursion train there were 103 passengers. Four apprentices, and one policeman were taken in between Auckland and Mercer. There were not a quarter so many as there would have been had opening been deferred until after the reception of the Premier.

The value of coke as a fuel, and as a means of economy of coal, is not appreciated sufficiently. A mixed fuel of coal and coke is invaluable for the ordinary purposes of heating, and still more for those cooking and raising steam, as it absorbs the smoke or inflammable gases given off by coal during combustion, and renders the lire trig Mr ,clearer, aud hotter.. This is much more apparent where our local coals are used; indeed, owing to the rapidity of burning, some of these threaten to go out of. consumption altogether. Coke supplies exactly that which these coals lack—body and resistance. Every householder should buy coals and coke at the same time, and, if convenient, mix them ; smaller bills and greater satisfaction will be the result. The price of coke is- advertised elsewhere— [Advt.]

The Cure Gold Mining meeting called to day in the offices of Mr Robert Home, lapsed tor want of a. quorum. According to Direc for's report, although the returns of gold have not reached expectations, the mine has been well opened up, and any clay a new discovery might . be made which would improve tho prospects. Mr Crawford's, (Mine Manager's) re port detailed the progress of the work during the half-year, and held out hopes for further improvements aud remunerative crushings. The expenses of working for the past half-year, cm ding Dec. Ist, in cluding a balance of £1 J7s lid, amounts to £1,416" 12s .6'd ; "wlii! ; the receipts, were £1,072 Id, leaving a, debt balance of £344 Sd sd.

An entertainment, cousistinfepf musio "songs, and recitations, was held JaSjt evening in the Deybnport ftall, North SHfore, Rtej. Joseph BatSs in tli^bhair. The pr«rtjeedin||s I were pleasing and'satisfactory. The members of the new and ■Nourishing Ponsonby Rowing Club held a very success ful concert in aid of the funds of the Clnb in the Ponsonby Hall last evening. The stage was tastefully decorated with flags, crossed with oars .belonging to the Club. The attendance was large; the music was all well rendered, and reflected the greatest credit on the performers. The execution of the lady pianists shewed sweetness of touch and brilliancy.

TELEGRAPHIC.

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT,

GRAHAMSTOWN, this day. Morning Light, Owharoa has 11 ozs. from 15 tons from the six feet reef. The Smile of Fortune will have £0 pzs. for the fortnight's work. _ The Alburnia have over 1,000 lbs. picked stone, and specimens towards the next crushing. The Young New Zealand has 34d ozs amalgam, and 100 tons going through, In the Caledonian the western lode is improving iv quality, showing antimony and «^- L UNTEER CHALLENGE. The Thames Scottish have accepted the Victoria Company's-challenge, to lire a match at Mount Eden at a time'suitable to Auckland. COROMANDEL, this day. Union Beach v. Golden Pah.—Judgment has been intimated for plaintiffs, a written di; cision will be given on the Bth January, 1878 ; an appeal will be made on several points on behalf of the Golden Pah Corn nan y. Public sympathy is with the Pah. A case of horse-stealing, against a man named Nelson, now undergoing six months imprisonment, is engaging attention. The Long Tunnel Company is rapidly advancing towards the large Tokatea reef. The manager expects to cut the lode in a few days. WELLINGTON, this day. Mr Ballanco Joins the Ministry. It is positively announced that Mr Ballance will join the new Government, on the Ist of January. It is also considered probable that Mr Larnach will soon be succeeded by Mr Stout. (PEESS AGENCY.) ALEXANDRA, this day. ' NATIVES' BEER STOPPED. The natives here are indignant agaiusc the Government for bringing the old Act, prohibiting the selling of liquors to natives, into effect. They object to having their beer stopped. Tawhiao will have a feast and races on Christinas Day at Kopna. TIMARU, this day. BREACH OF PROMISE. The breac'i of promise case, Floia McKinnon v. John London, damages laid at £2,000 for breach of promise, and £1,000 for seduction, lasted two days. The special jury returned in an hour and a half, with a verdict for plaintiff on all issues, damage.-, £300.

CABLEGRAMS.

Latest War News.

(FROM OUR SPECIAL LONDON CORRESPONDENT) OSMAN PASHA COMMITS SUICIDE. English Parliament Convened. Portentous Rumours. The Czar at Plevna. LONDON. Nov. 17. Osruan Pacha, the hero of Plevna, has committed suicide, it is supposed by poison. The cause is the Moslem objection to amputation rendered necessary by his wounds. The English Parliament has been con vened for January. This is unusual, and has been construed into an intention on the part of the Government to take decisive action against Russia. Sydney, This]day. The " Sydney Morning Herald's " special cablegram states that eight thousand persons at Pesth joined in an anti Russian demonstration. The Austrian Ambassador refused to receive a deputation, whereupon a riot en sued. | The Chamber of Deputies at Constanti nople has elected a Christian President. The Czar reviewed seventy thousand "troops at Plevna. New Zculand wheat, 45s ; New Zealand ilax liat. (Reuters Telegrams per Press Agency). FURIOUS SORTIE FROM PLEVNA. RUSSIAN REJOICINGS ON SUR RENDER OF PLEVNA. LONDON, December 15.

Firewood ;it Plevna being exhausted, Osraan Pasha with the whole army, on the morning of the 10th of December, attacked the Russian grenadiers on the left bank of the Vid, attempting to force their Avay through trenches and batteries. They found themselves unable to break through, and tried to return to Plevna, which, mean while, other Russian divisions had occupied, assaulting the Turkish rear and flank. After live hours' desperate fighting, Osman Pasha surrendered his sword. He was slightly wounded. He was received with marked attention by the Russians.

The Russian Staff were aware of the intended sortie three days beforehand. A spy informed General Skobeloff. The Turks made two feint attacks to the west ward of the Vid with great fury, nearly destroying a grenadier regiment. An epidemic in Plevna hastened Osman Pasha's sortie. He had three weeks' pro visions and 1,000 cattle, hut no forage nor fuel.

An attempt to kill the Prince of Mon tenegro, by explosion, ""ra,s made at his residence. The Prince was absent. Several attendants were killed and injured.

The bulk of General Melikoifs troops have been detained by snow between Kars and Erzeroum.

Sulieman Pasha's advance against the army of the Czarewitch has been checked. The surrender of Plevna was celebrated with great rejoicing and illuminations at Bucharest-and St. Petersburgh. The Pope's condition is alarming, and his death is frequently announced. A Vienna telegram asserts that the Porte consents that the British fleet shall pass the Hellespont without abandoning her neu rality. Austria protests. The Duke of Manchester probiibly suc ceeds Lord Dufferin as Governor of Canada.

The Marquis of Bute's mansion at Rothe say has been partially destroyed by fire.

PROPOSED AUSTRIAN ANNEXA TIONS.

EGYPTIAN-TROOPS FOR TURKEY;

[SPECIAL TO THE " MELBOURNE ARGUS."]

LONDON, December 6. Germany recommends Austria to annex Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Tunis having "furnished troops to the Turks, th> Russian Consul has left Tunis. .. President j Hayes has addressed Con gress. , He* all vises the consideration of the Samoa petition for a.treaty of commerce and protection. .. Tenders are called for the Cape Mail Ser vice. The passage is required to be done in 35 to 40 days. LONDON, December 13. Thirteen thousaud additional Egyptian troops have been sent to the aid of the Turks. .

The Porte Willing to Accept Mediation.

Russian Attack on Erseroum

imminent.

LONDON, December 15. The " Morning Post" states the Cabinet have under consideration a circular despatch from the Porte intimating its willingness to accept the mediation of the European Powers. The Quepn visits Hughcndon, the seat of Earl Beaconsfield, to-day. A Russian attack on Erzeroum appears imminent. The British Consul has left, taking away the Consular Archives. SERVIA DECLARED WAR. December 10. The Servian army has received orders to cross the frontier. ' The staff has gone to the capital. Mr Duffy, Speaker of the Victorian Assembly, has been created Knight Com mander of St. Michael and St. George. The Brindisi Australian mails were de livered in London on the 11th. The Turks evacuated Elena. Scrvia has declared war, and will proba bly operate with the Roumanians against Widdiu. The Turks are aiding person.? conspiring against Prince Milan. The French Assembly voted direct taxes, and two-twelfths of the Budget. The Turkish circular to the neutral Powers is said to have .been instigated by England. Arrived : William Davie and Waikato. The wool sales have closed. .The tone was weak and halting. ARRIVAL OF THE SAN FRANCISCO MAIL. SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 14th. The City of New York, with London mails of November 15th, left San Francisco for Auckland on the sth inst: The Zea landia, with the colonial mails, arrived at San Francisco on the 13th inst. MELBOURNE, December 19. _ The Couucil has postponed the Appropri ation Bill. The Assembly will adjourn to morrow till the middle of January.

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Before Culonel Nation, Justiceof the Peace.) DRUNKARDS. John Walker and Thomas McLennan, were charged v.'ith being drunk last even ing. Prisoners pleaded guilty,, and the usual penalties were inllicted. POLITICAL EXCITEMENT^ Robert Chalmers was charged with being drunk and disorderly in the Theatre Royal last evening. Mr Kiss!in^ appeared for prisoner. Constable Hogan deposed that he was on duty in the dress circle of the.Theatre Royal where prisoner was causing a great noise, and shouting" out something which witness could notr catch. When prisoner was arres ted, a number of persons near, including several ladies, said it was quite time he was taken away. Sergeant" Major Mason saw prisoner at the station last evening about 11 o'clock. Hejwas under the influence of liquor, and incapable of taking care of himself. He was bailed out by friends. Constable Gleesou saw prisoner arrested in the Theatre. He was not sober. He had been shouting " Biily Rowe " at the top of his voice. Constable MeGilp was in the lock up when prisoner was brought in. He was not incapable. Mr.Kissling asked that the case be dis missed. Prisoner was suffering from poli tical excitement. It was not shewn that the prisoner was incapable. When Sir George Grey was speaking, he referred to some of the members who had not supported him, and prisoner by way of illustration, called out " Billy Rowe." Mr Sub-Inspector Pardy said prisoner was not charged with shouting "Billy Rowe " or any other Billy, but for playing the blackguard amongst a number of ladies. The Bench dismissed the case with a caution. This concluded the business.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATES' COURT. —THIS DAY.

(Befoie R. C. Barstow, Esq.. R.M.) JUDGMENTS FOX PLAINTIFFS.

.1. Van Breda v. A. M. Smith, ciaiin£66s, goods, costs £2 Is, (Mr Alexander for frlaintttr)". iOdmund Culb,erttV. John Fakey. claim £21t3501, board and lodging, costs 93. Matthew Klttv. Michael Grace, claim £15 3a. rent, costs £2 14s, (Mr Armstrong for plaintiff). Edward Boucher v. John Mullally, claim £7 2s 9d, butchers' meat, costs 18s. Geo. Fowler v. Robert Atkinson, claim £1 7s 9d, groceries, costs 178. Mary Cashiel v. H. Colson, claim £i 7s 6d, board, etc.. costs £1 isGd. (Mr Uces for plaintiiF); Joseph Hall v. Thomas Dye, claim, £2 Gs id, costs, £1 Is Cd (Mr Thorne for plaintiff); Long Tunnell Gold Mining Company v. Jamca Nelsun, claim, £1G 11s 3d, calls. (Mr Mclvecknio ior plaintiff). Mr James Home proved the claim, costs, £2 os : C. U'Leau v. Charles Mack, £9 is, 1.0. U. Mr Thorne for plaintiff, nnd Mr Madden for defendant, <vho, after some considemtion, admitted that he owed the money, costs, £1 193. Several cases were adiournod until the new year. Thomas Weir v. George Macky, claim, £100. Mr Hcsko'ch ask*d that the evidence of Mr Bitiney might be taken in relation to an action between the above persons at Lyttelton. George William Uinney, auctioneer, of Auckland, de posed that in September last, he received a -corsignmeut of 20 sacks of fioiu-, also a quantity of butter and cheese from';the defendant, George Mackay. ex Wave of Life." The flour was very inferior, and he only-disposed of two tons for £28. Ho sold it privately to the best advantage, and after deducting freight, etc., paid Mackay the net balance of £22 12t. This transaction, in October, closed Mackay's account wit him. He was not indebted to Mackay, but had re-drawn on Mackay. wJtm had previously overdrawn on the shipment. This was all the business.

THE CANTERBURY CRICKET MATCH.

The following players have been selected to represent Auckland in the cricket match against the Canterbury team, to be played in the Domain, commencing on the 28th iust. : Messrs R. J. Yates, W. W. Robinson, D. Lynch, W. F. Buckland, H. Colson, J. Mumtord, F. Dufaur, Grier son, EL E. Cotton, Glceson, W. L. Rees. This is a strong team, but we are sorry to see the same lack of organization about the practices that detracted, from the strength of the team which played against the Englishmen. Auckland cricketers seem incorrigible in this respect. However, with good fortune they may pull through, andthev have our best wishes.

ACCIDENT.

A little boy named Cullen, wk<9 was climbing the main rigging of tke ship Famenoth yesterday evening, immediately after the landing of Sir George Grey, fell on to the deck of the vessel from a height of about 20ft. He was picked up insensible by Captain Auld, and taken into the cabin. A doctor was sent for, and fortunately it was found that no serious injury had been sustained. Captain Elliott kindly sent his*spring cait to. the. ship's side, and the sufferer was taken to the residence of his father, who is a carpenter, in the employ of Mr Potter. The accident should serve as a caution to boys to attend to what they are told. We understand that just before the accident Captain Auld and the officers of the vessel had repeatedly warned boys against climbing up the rigging.

PUBLIC MEETING LAST NIGHT.

A public meeting to welcome Sflr' George Grey, Premier, and the Aucklandiiaembers who supported him during the late " session of Parliament was held last evening. The dress circle was almost filled by ladies and gentlemen accompanying tiiem. The stalls, pit, orchestra, and passages were densely packed.' Amongst the gentlemen on the platform we noticed the following members cf the General Assembly : — Messrs Lusk, Dignan, Swanson, O'Rorke, Wallis, R. G. Wood, and Tole. The following gentlemen were also on the platform : Messrs J. T. Boylan, J. D. Jackson, of Onehunga, P. Darby, Chadwick, R. Graham, Macbattie, Ireland, Sisley, Suiter, Herapath, Madden, senr., Levy, Keesing, Williams, Dalton, Thompson, Hull, Waller, Thome, Dufauf, J. L. Wilson, E. Isaacs, J. M. Shera, D. Goldie, T. B. Hill, Pegler, Dr. Lee, Chair man Executive Reception Committee, J. Smith, Hughes, and Holdship. On the motion of Mr J. T. Boylan, seconded by Mr Hamilton, Mr J. W. Shera was voted to the chair, and opened the meeting in a brief, but pointed -speech. He concluded by reading the address, which was published in.the Star last evening. The reading of the address was frequently interrupted by loud cheering. Mr E. Isaacs moved the adoption of the address, describing Sir George Grey as the hero of a hundred political battles, who had done his utmost to restore the political rights of the people of New Zealand, who owed him a debt of gratitude. (Cheers.) Mr J. L. Wilson seconded the motion in a brief speech. The Chairman called for a show of hands in favour of the address. (Cries of " hold up both hands.") The address Avas carried unanimously, amidst general cheering. The Chairman : I will now sign it on your behalf. (A voice—" In red ink.") At this stage, the cheering of the crowd outside anaouueed the arrival of Sir George Grey, and the cheering was taken up by those within. Sir George Grey, on entering upon the stage, was received by the the whole audi ence standing, cheering, and waving hats and handkerchiefs, which lasted for some minutes. Sir George Grey took his seat on the right of the Chairman, Mr J. C. Brown, M.H.R. for Tuapeka, Otago, being accom modated with a seat on the left of the Chair man. The Chairman read the address., and pie sented it to Sir George Grey. The Premier, on coming forward to address the meeting, was received with loud and prolonged cheering. He thanked them for the renewed promises of support and promised that while strength and health remained he would not cease to labour to attain the objects set forth in the address. (Loud cheers), He had no doubt that success would be achieved if those who were acting with him remained faithful to their duty. (Cheers, and a voice —'•'Billy Rowe !" and laughter). The memory of what he had seen that clay would never fade from his mind, and lie thanked them heartily for the address. The Chairman announced that Sir Gco. Grey-would again address the meeting. (Loud cheeis). The Premier, on again coming forward, was received with prolonged cheering. He expressed his gratitude to the people of Auckland, who had first elected him to Parliament, and remarked that though he had from political necessity been re-elected for the Thames, he was now the representative of the entire of New Zealand. (Enthusiastic cheers). Ke desired to carry the people of Auckland forward with him iv the course which he and his colleagues were resolved to follow for the public good. Their original object was that the repre sentation should be upon such a basis that every class of the community would be fairly represented, by which men might be trained to political life, and be induced to undergo self-sacrifice for the public good. (Cheers). Until that was achieved every good obtained for the people must be of a transient character. (Hear, hear). At present the country was: not fairly divided into electoral districts, and repre sentation was not apportioned to population.' Counties, for instance, had the dis .tribution of large sums of money, and subsidies raised from the general tax ation of the country. But the Comities were brokenJup into Ridings, and one man might have 45 votes in a County, while an other who had lived in it for many years with a wife and family, had no vote at all. The property which gave this plurality of votes had been in many cases illegally acquired, and had been improved by expenditure out of the public funds in weal works. He and his colleagues were determined to see that the voting power was fairly distributed (cheers). They considered' that every man who had resided for 12 months in an electoral district, was entitled to a vote, especially if he had • a family ; that money or land was not all, but that human affection and love of family was much, and ought to ba represented. (Loud cheers) If fair representation were obtained the people would have power to prevent bad laws, and, to conserve their rights. (Cheers.) They believed that taxa tion could be made equitable, and that the same system might be adopted as in Great Britain, where no absentee is allowed to draw a large fortune from the country with out contributing his fair share ..towards.the taxation. They believed that in striving so to distribute taxationthat every man should pay in proportion to the protection and bene fits he receives, they would have the support of the people. (Cheeis.) They believed that the lands of the colony lmd not been fairly administered, and that by offering facilities for settlement every man would be enabled to obtain a home for his family. (Cheers). Sir George Grey went on to speak on the Land Fund question, and she wed" that any attempt to reform the system under which one part of the colony received immense revenues whilst others languished for want .of improvements had been regarded as dis honest, and stamped with opprobrium. Mr Reader Wood attempted to reform it, and was treated with scorn and contempt. But when it was found that a majority were in favour of the colonializatiou of the Land Fund there was* a majority in favour of it. A.s he stood at the, gangway x>f the lobby and saw- them troop by him he could not believe it:- -(Laughter and cheers).- Individual after individual, who that session had spoken and. voted against.it, passed by one^ after the other," anp he thought he saw* blushes upon some faces. (Loud laughter and cheers, and a voice : " Billy Rowe.") He was satisfied that ten years hence people would hardly credit that Auckland had sumitted to such a monstrous wrong as the localization of the land. The reason that many members voted for the colonializatiou of the Land Fund was that they feared to be like servants out of place with a bad character. He thought what was called statecraft should be abolished iv New Zealand. He was in favour of every thing being open and above-board. (Cheers). In great communities political questions were discussed by many intellects from a hundred different points of view, and the result was that statesmen were streng thened in carrying out what was conducive to the .public interest. An idea was springing . amongst the Governors ot the colonies that the Crown must lean upon the Upper Houses in the same way as • upon the House of Peers. That, as there was no established Church or Bench of Bishops, the Crown must lean upon thesquatters (laughterand cheers.) They wanted to create a landed aristocracy. Where would this lead us ? (A voice—"lnto the Piako Swamp." Prolonged laughter and cheers.) In the old country and Europe the disparity in the condition, of enormous populations was a, continual cause of distur bances, quarrels about boundaries. They rested on the old feudal system, and had no hopes of founding a great-nation, such as the people of New Zealand have. The interest of the Crown in a colony like this Avas to preserve loyalty, prosperity, and contentment, and to know that the people would not for the world be separated from the mother country. (Cheers.) Those who

Pj||£ % Crown m the position of aiiv™ teelf mbi squatter*, with a landed arif tocracy, r and or giving to me class advint! .which a*e hateful to the whole -KS"S 6* enemies^of the Crown and of the' L , alike. (Prolonged cheering.) To aim asS objects was to attempt to bring a boS a separtion between the colonists and «T" Crown, winch, in the .person of the OnJL was so truly and fervently reverend V loved. (Cheers.) The only m 2 f 1* that the Governor should becompelHi + take the advise of responsible advisers o whom the people could exercise chert Did they think, for instance, that he tt, j his colleagues would willingly do anything throw away such love as had been orWl them that day. No, he would rather <?£ first. .(Great cheering). But so Ion« as hi believed he had their support he woutd ,v all things. They shouhfbe ruled by ZJ whom they could rule, and all thim** should be made known. He would quote two examples- From 1849 to 1853 h aimed to make Auckland the Queen of Commerce in the South Pacifc for which nature had designed her He was then Governor of New Caledonia and the Loyalty Islands, and by the aid of friends he obtained offers from the Chiefs of Fiji, the Tonga Islands and Samoa of • cessions of territory, and he formed'the idea of founding a federated nation i»f the Islands of the Pacific Ocean, under system which Provincial Institutions were intended to supply. New Zealand would have appointed, the LeiuteYiant Governors - judges, and officers for the Islands, and the Customs system would have been uniform The people of New Zealand were naturally a maritime people, and by the scheme he proposed they would have developed into a great commercial nation. But as the Crimean war was about to break out, Lnc- - land wanted to conciliate Louis Napoleon and New Caledonia was given up to him as a French possession. He (Sir George Grey) was scolded for proposing that England should take possession of tile Fij'is, un d thus an enormous commeerse was lost to us. Another instance of the same kind occurred dining the mutiny in India in ISSB, when he was at the Cape of Good Hope. A number of New Zealand chiefs, principally of Taranaki, offered to raise a regiment 1,000 strong to assist in suppressing the rebellion. ■ They also wrote to Governor Brown on the subject, who forwarded the letter to him- Mr Charles Brown, of Taranaki, did'the same. The chiefs, in order that they might. have a guarantee of fair play, proposed that lie (Sir George Grey) should be then colonel (laughter and cheers.) There were two kinds of colonels, one of whom waa allowed to clothe the men, and if he could do it for less money than the regulation allowance, might put the difference in hia pocket. (Laughter). He pointed out to the Home Government that if these men were not permitted to fight abroad, the Government would have to fight them in New Zealand, and tliis would bring ter rible evils upon the country. But the War Oiiice took ' offence at his remarks. The Church r arty had acquired . an influence over the War Office, . 'liiey wanted 4,000,000 acres to found Bishoprics iv Canterbury, but he beat them, and they got only 1,000,000. The* War Office said that the recommendation to employ barbarians in war was a most shock ing thing, but when they were pressed for - troops in Ceylon and the West Indies they wrote to " him to send Kaffirs, He recommended that only 15 Kaffirs should be employed in r company, and there mixed with Europeans, and the War Office ■was more angry with him than ever. (Laughter.) Another instance of the necessity of public affairs being made known to the people was that the power of dis solution -was virtually being used by the representative of the Crown to keep one party in power. A Premier in his choice of a Ministry was limited by the necessity of selecting the Ministry from representatives of different Provincial Districts ; but if he obtained a dissolution, and. found he was supported by the general. voice of the people, he would choose the ablest and best men, without refeience to districts (cheers). This was a right exercised by British) statesmen, and they did not abuse it. No man., in his common senses would, argue that Colonial statesmen were not fit to be en trusted with responsibilities which called out their energies, and nerved them to to exertion. It was the duty of rei.r.seuta tives to meet their constituents, and the?: people should demand it, Sir George Grey" concluded as follows : Although I am no longer-a representative of any part of your city, 1 have spoken to you as the repre sentative of the whole of New Zealand. I have spc ken to you in the first place as an old fiiend, and in the next place as onewho owes you great and weighty obligations, ami would fain, in his old age, repay them. if he could. (Loud cheers.) If what I have ' said will bear fruit, then I shall be happy indeed. If what I have said will convince you that, whenever you apply to me to work you a benefit that is in my power, I . will do my best to serve you, I shall be- ■. happier still, because I.shall know this— ' that you feel I have, your welfare at heart- - as truly as I have it. The chairman then read a list of members wh o would address the meeting. JVIr, Sfi'eehan Bad telegraphed thanking, the. people;of Auckland for the honour they had intended, ami asking them to pay the honour to Mr J. C;. Brown, (loud cheers, X continuing for' several seconds, and cries of •" Brown !");:• whose great skills had con-;; trituted so materially .to the. success of;the : Auckland party. (Renewed cheers). Per- . haps Mr Brown would ; address the meet-,, ---ing. ■ + Mr J. C. Brown, M.H.R., in response to repeated calls, came forward, and vras welcomed with enthusiastic cheers. He said: Mr Chairman, ladies and gentlemen, I feel sure that I shall be studying your convenience by 'saying as few words as ' possible.* -'My forte is hot :in speaking, but rather in action. I am sure with such a leader as < Sir. George • Grey, and such a good cause, no whip could be. more ably assisted m- ;;> fighting for victory than I have been. lam sure my humble efforts..were all loyally put forth iv a worthy cause, and though we are ... possibly not so numerous as our opponents, 'the'fact that we won is more to our credit. (Loud cheers.) I thank you for the kiud expression of good feeling which you have shewn towards me this evening. (Loud cheers.) : Cries of" Willy." , . Mr It. G. Wood, M.H.R., referred to the reception given :to the Auckland members on a former occasion, when they returned ■unsuccessful, "but though he believed in the proverb that "Nothing succeeds like success," he thought. Sir George Grey and the Auckland mem bers who supported him were deserving of .a reception. They" had succeeded, in placing Sir George Grey in the position of Premier, and in equalising tlie linancial administration of the colony- Next session, whatever might be the feehng' of the Governor, the Ministry would bring down new measures, and the inevitable result must be a dissolution, and the return of a majority pledged to stand by bu" George Grey in giving pract;cal effect to the measures which he had propounded that evening. He concluded by thankuig the people of Auckland for their hearty welcome. , Mr Rees, who was received with loud chears, said the enthusiastic support of to* people of Auckland as evinced at tlie rcception last year had contributed to the success of Sir George Grey and Ins . party more than anything else. The" Ministry of the late session was absolutely unique in the annals of Parlia mentary Government. He had defied a majority in the : House, with whoni the Government sympathized, having the assurance that the people" ' were ; ■ behind him,; ■ andj was now. able to come before them as Premier. (Cheers.; Sir George Grey reminded him of as nip which had weathered the storms, and had now got safe into harbour. (Cheers.} 1»e Speaker referred iv eulogistic terms tc> tue great services rendered by Sir George .Grey

'iBE IT UN ING STAR, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 1877.



rjIHE undersigned are now brin frig JL forward a Large Parcel of GKNE AL DRAPERY. HABERDASHERY, &c, bought at considerably less than usual prices, to which they invite the attention of all requiring Good Value For Money. Corsets in great variety of quality, and style, white and coloured, from 2/6 per pair Linen and Lace Goods, Cufts, Collars, and Sets, in variety Ladies' Underclothing Umbrellas and Parachutes, Silk, Zanella, !^!Alpaeca, &c. . ~ ' , Lot of Flowers at very low price, quite fresh Straw Hats, Ribbons, Gloves, &c. . A Solendid Stock of Muslin, Lace, and Lenoe Curtains, Counterpanes. Quilts, Damask Table Cloths. Sheeting-, Felt Squares Carpets. Floorcloth, China Malting, Ticks, Sec. T,ar£-e-size Huckaback Towels at /6 each New Fancy Dress Materials, Japanese Silks, A Coloured Lustres, Blank Lustres. Embossed, Striped, and Cheek Muslins, Prints, &c. Brown Holland, from /Gi per yard Union, Fancy Jean, and Oxford Shirtings, very f>h aaT) \ Line of Superior Quality Silk Mixed Fancy Shirting, at 2/3, usual price 3/6 per yard White and Grey Calico. Good Grey from /3 per yard Also, very lar.^e assortment of Gents' Shirts, White Lono-clbth, Union and All-wool Crimean, Fancy Silk Mixed Scotch Twill, Fancy Jean, Oxford, &c. Strong Tweed for Boy 3 wear A Job Line of Stout Mosgiel at below Factory Braced Belt?, Ties, Scarfs, Collars, Cotton and Merino Hosiery, Undershirt 3, &c. Leghorn, Tuscan, Straw, and Drill Hats, for ' Boys and Men, &c, &c, &c. !-n he £ allowed on all Ca3h Purchases of 20s. and upwards. rushbrook & bridgman, Junction Drapery Warehouse, UPPER OtfEBX-STBBETi AiTP.Tfr.ANrri. CARPETS, HEARTHRUGS, LINOLEUM, FLOORCLOTH. T. & B. CO ORE Beg to inform their friends and the public that they have imported a large assortment of the above, which will render their FURNISHING ESTABLISHMENT one of the most complete and extensive in Auckland, having purchased these Goods of the 'Manufacturers direct, for cash, they are enabled to offer them at VERY LOW PRICES. ' New Patterns An Carpets and Linoleum. tST SHOW R 0 0M S : 07, Queen-street. Steam Cabinet Factory Victoria-street. NEVER Have the Public had such a Choice of BED STEADS offered them as at the present timo Besides our already well assorted Stock of Iron Bedsteads, and those of our own manu facture in K.inRT, Rime, Ckdak, and Mottled Kauri, we ask them to bear in MIND that we have Just Opexkd Up, ex •' Ofcaki.' TWO HUNDRED IROtf- BEDSTEADS of the most modern style, comprising French. Half Tester, Children's, and Stumps, also" Cots, at Prices to suit all classes. Having! purchased for Cash from THE Best Manufacturer, we can-SELL A GOOD BEDSTEAD at a Very Low Price. BEDDING, of every description, kept in Stock. HOUSKS FURNISHED THROUGHOUT at a Short Notice. Our system is to make a large return ; to insure thi3 We Sell tor Ready CASH at a Small Profit, and DELTVJSR GOODS FREE to any part of the Town and Suburbs. IST Give your Furnishing Order to Holloway, &ai\Hols & Qranwell, CABINETMAKERS, UPHOLSTERERS, AND CLOTHIERS, City Hall Arcade, QUEEN & LORNE-STRKETS AUCKLAND. Swindlers 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 is particularly detestable, sfnee it is calculated to ob the side and dsfelUtatsd oi a genuine source health and vigor.



UNION INSURANCE COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND. CAPITAL • £2,000,000. AUCKLAND BRANCH: QUEEN-S T R E E T, Next the Colonial Bank. FIRE DEPARTMENT. Insurances granted on Dwelling-houses, Stores, Shops, Buildings in which trade is carried on, Merchandise, and Goads of every description. MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers. Merchandise of all kinds, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at O WEST C UKREXT ItATES. R. H. STEVENSON ' '•'Manager TAXATIONAL FIRE AND MARINE jS INSURANCE COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND. Capital £1,000,000. Reserve £.50,000. Re-Insurance Fund .... £20,000. Insurances effected against Fire and Marine Loss of Every Description of Property, at sLowest Current Rates. Prompt and Liberal Settlement of Claims. HENRY B. WILLIAMS, Manager, Auckland Branchy C*~s fkfh REWARD RE KITCHEN'S T,X\/i" BLOOD RESTORER, As several Bottles, containing trashy worth less compounds, have been palmed off on un suspecting people on the pretence of their b>nng the celebrated " Hitchens' Blood Restorer," the Proprietor respectfully cautions his patients to see that the Bottles bear both his Trade Mark and Signature. He also warns the unscrupu lous persons who, under false pretences, receive people's money, that .=£loo Pounds Reward will be given on conviction of persons guilty of infringing his rights. 11. HITCHENS. mo AGRICULTURISTS & OTHERS JL W. J. HURST pc CO. have on sale the under mentioned Fertilizers, all of which have been proved to produce satisfactory results in this district- Experience teaches that large and profitable returns can be relied on by a judicious and liberal use of them. The flattering Testi monials from leading Farmers justify W. J. tfurst & Co. in strongly commending them to every Agriculturist:— MALDTCNT ISLAND GUANO PERUVIAN GUANO MBXIOA.N do BELLe rsONK FLOUR 1 and J-ißch BONEDUST BILLYARD'S No. 1 do. NITRATE OF SODA SULPHATE OF AMMONIA MURIATE OF POTASH! SUPKR-PHOSPIIATR OF LIME. SALT, SULPHATR OF LIME. 5 In addition to the above, W. J. H. & Co. are prepared to supply ppocial Chemical Manures ibr stimulating weak Corn Crops, and renovat ing Clover-sick Pastures, as well as the Potato and Mangold mixture that last season attracted so much favourable notice. Analysis?, prices, and other particulars wul bo supplied on application at the Stores. . W. J. HURST & CO., 181 0. uekn-s tr e kt, clover seed, for spring bowing Just Landed, cx1 Columbus— 30 casks new Clovers, cousisting of Red Clover White Clover Cow Qras Also on hand. Alsyhe, Timothy, Lucerne, Rape Rats-tail, Rye grass, Cocksfoot, &c, at lowest market rates. W. J. HURST & CO. 101, Q U E.E N-STKE BT. 500 sacks Sydney Maize (superior sample) 3000 ~ Oats First-class Tartars for Seed, also 800 sacks of 1875 crop hard feed, surpassing any of last season's erowth 1200 sacks Canterbury Potatoes, and some early varieties for seed purposes' Flour, Bran, Sharps, Chaff, Oilcake, Coal, &c, Sec. Particular attention is called to ftOOaacka Prime Barley at 4a pur bushel o 50ib. 5 tons Anderson's Fresh uatmeal, a £21 per ton. W. J. HURST & CO.. 101, QUEEN-STREET. AUCKLAND. ON THIS DAY AND DURING THE WEEK, WE will snow PIEoS ES 10,000 H^ CES FASHIONABLE DRESS GOODS AND jss- PRINTS. "®a REDUCED TO PIALF PRICE IN ORDER TO CLEAR. J. COSGRAVE & CO., 'QUEEN-STREET. ■