SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

ARRIVALS.

Go-ahead, s.s , I tfclander. from Uisoorne. Hauraki. r>.«.. Oakcs, from Raglan; Niger, whaling ship, Hallett, from a cruise.

DEPARTURES.

Taupo, f.s.. Carey, for Tauranga ana vne souui. Hinemoj. Gov. steam yacht, for Kawau and Cane Van Dei man. Fannv'Kelly, ketch, McKinnon, for U angaroa.

EN PORTS.

Per ? s. Tnupo for Poverty Bay: 35 cases old torn, 10 cases beer, 1 bale, 2 cases. —Owen & Graham. 1 case printers' materials.—Wilsons and Horton. JV.---2 cases.—lreland Brothers.

The p.s. Hanraki arrived in theMannkan from Raglan yesterday, with a cargo of produce. fjThe brisrantino Ooeola arrived at Newcastle, on the 13th inst. Sh« goes from Newcastle to Adelaide, and load there with wheat for this Tlio s.s. Southern Cross has been brought over from tli'.' North looking spick and span af'p;- her overhaul. She is to leave for Napier this afternoon at 5 o'clock. The s.s. Go-ahead arrived from Gisbornn last nigM. Passengers—Messrs Smith and Good. Captain Schultzo. Carao—lß9 bales wool. 50 hides. 10 ea sirs tallow, consigned to Messrs Owen and Graham. The s.s. Tanpo left last evening for Tauranga find tht '.outh. Pos3enger B—Mr and Mrs Bar ton. Mrs Sinitt and two child-en. MrsSyinonds and two children, Sirs Honis and child, Mes r'anies Parser, Carey, Cornish. Barber. Miss Greenville. Messrs Mc'ntyre, Harker, Harring ton. Simcox, Lally. Brown, Watson, Brownlcc, Greenfield, Milner. Hennelley, and 0 steergc.—

Henderson and Macfarlane, agents. •■• The Union Steamship Co. advertise that on Tuesday, 251. n inst. (Christmas Day), the s.s. Wanaka will run an excursion to the Bny of Islands, arriving there or. Wednesday morning, and leaving in the c-venini? for Auckland. Re turn tickets arc to be issued at single fares. The s.s. lona is to run an excursion to Kawau on Boxing Day, and the s.s. Argyle to the Hot Springs. Tne s.s. Transit, Captain J. Niccoll, has been during the last week or two at Messrs Niccoll ana Son's ship yard, where she has undergone certain alterations enlarging hernassenfenr ac commodation. Her new ownersVe evidently studying the oomfort of their passengers, and deserve support accordingly. She is fo resume her running to the Wairoa on Saturday, at 2 p.m. The p.s. Enterprise is to resume lier daily trips to the Thames on Monday next She has always been a very wonderful boat, and in spite of not bping particularly fast, has earned as much-money as almost any boat in Auckland. The stigma of slowness, it is confidently believed, will be found altogether removed by 'he recent improvements to her ermine and machinery, and by the new boiler,

which is calculated t.o sustain a pressure nt 201ns more to the inch than the old one. The renovated Enterprise will probably be nearly if not quite as fast as her younger compeers in the Thames trade. The s.s. ITinemoa le<"t for Kawau ana Cape Maria Van Die man last evening. Passengers— For Kawau—Sir George Grey, Mr and Mrs George. For Oape Maria Van Dieman—Mr J. C. Brown, M.H.R., Messrs Seed and Blackett. The p.s. Geelong. wit> a raft of timber from Wangape, arrived at Hokianga last night, and left again this morning for Wangape. Early this morning a ship was signalled at the Victoria Flasstali', raid speculation w<is at once rife as to what she would prove to be. The A.bbey Holme and the Iron Queen were freely mentioned, as being the vessels due from Lon don, but as both these were stated to be barques the suppositions drifted into other channels. At length the flag Tt was seen flying at the signal post, and as this in the commercial code signifies '■foreign man-of-war," fresh cogitations were the remit. The general conclusion come to was that the German corvette Auarusta, known to be cruising among the Pacific Islands, was enterinsr the harbour, and this was at last accepted as a fact in shipping and commercial circles generally. Gentlemen, however, who wire watching the vessel's movements from the high ground of the city, noticed as strange tkav a war steamer should be beating into harboiSb. and wondered why she didnot use her propeller^ Ultimately the ship at about 11 o'clock, being unable to make head against, the S.W. wind and ebb tide, came to anchor under the North Head, and then the news soon travelled to town that instead of the Augusta ovany other man-of-war, she was the whaling ship Niger, from a cruise, rut into Auckland for repairs and refit. She entered at the Customs to-day with 1025 barrels of oil on board. Captain Hallett is in command, and reports being last from Society Islands. Since leaving Russell in April lastshe has taken about half her present stock of oil. What in duced our signalman to describe, her as a foreign man-of-war, we are unahle to say. We might suggest that the signal "foreign man-of-war" might be converted into a much more compre hensible signal by being accompanied by the fia."- of the nation to which the ship belongs. A sct =of national flags would not cost much, and would be exceedingly useful. The schooner Arcadia has arrived from Napier ana the Bay of Plenty.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Closk ab under: For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m., and to morrow, at noon, I.SO p.m., and 5.30 p.m. For Cororoandel, per Argyle, on Monday next,

at 11.30 a.m. For Nanier, per Southern Cross, this day, a'

For Waiwera, Mahurangi, Matakana, Manga wai, 'Waipu, AVangarei, and Mangapai, per Anne Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Gisborne, per Go-ahead, to-morrow, at 3

For Russell, Kawakawa, Wangaraa, and M^on eonui, per lona, on Monday next, at -1 p.m. For Whitiangi, Tauranga, and Opotifci, per Rowena, on Monday next, at 4 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 "Wangarei {Heads, Waipu. vvanKarei, and Mangapai, per Argyle, on Monday next, at Per s.s. Australia, on Tuesday, Bth January, IST?, as follows : - For bandwich Wands, Lrniten States of America, Canada, British Cq'nmbia, 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 feeof6d,m addition to the postage, will be received by the mail agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing.

N.B.—Tuesday next. 25th instant, bfiing a postal holiday, the mails usually despatched on that day will be closed the previous e-. ening, at 7 o'clock,

S. B. BIS?. Chief Po-tmaster

BIRTHS.

STATNTES.—On December 17, at Upper Queen street, the wife of G. Siaiues of a daughter.

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

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21, 1877.

for the cav.se that lacks assists nc«, Far the nrong that needs lesisttnca. E^ot the fnture iv. the distance,

Ana tiee good titot we csa *»

Among the terrible disasters that were to befal the colony upon the elevation of Sir George Grey to power, according to that extremely select section who pride them selves upon "differing " from his political views, was the complete collapse of New Zealand credit in London. It might have been inferred from the ominous warnings breathed by Major Atkinson and his sup porters that the price of colonial securities was sustained on the London Exchange simply by the greatness of the ex-militia captain's name. Even the Most Noble the Marquis of Normanhy professed alarm lest : a curtailment by the Ministry of the ex travagant schemes of their predecessors should depress the spirits of the gentlemen in London who were finding the money ! It appears, however, that those gentle men look at recent events from quite a different point of view. A cable despatch from the Agent-General announces a rise in New Zealand securities, which he says " have never been so high as they arc now. Consolidated lives, 107 ; other fives, 105J; 4-| per cents, 9Sf." A reference to West garth's circular shews that on the 6th of January N ew Zealand fives stood at 104-105; on the 6th of June they had fallen to 103i-104i. The rates stated by Sir Julius Vcgel, therefore, are about three per cent higher than the quotation in June of the present year. The 4J per cent loan on the Gth January, 1577, stood at 97-9S ; but on the 6th of June, despite the assurance which the possession of such a financial genius at the head of the Government gave debenture holders, the stock had fallen to 95£ and 9GJ. Sir Julius Vogel informs us it is-now at 98|.

Strange that such difference there should bo, 'Tvvixt tweedledum and tweeddle-dee.

The advance is the more remarkable because established in the face of an announced in tention to make large drafts upon the money market. There is, after all, something in the possession of a reputation, and it is no great disrespect' to the hon. member for Kgmont to say that Sir George Grey was known as the most able colonial Governor in the service of the Crown years befoie Major Atkinson had emerged from the cultivation of pump kins and iluke potatoes. The first act of his Cabinet—the colonisation of the Land Fund—giving English debenture-

holders an additional security of a million sterling per annum, was well-calculated to inspire confidence, and induce a feeling that the colonists, after years of extrava gance and reckless Government expenditure are coming to their right mind, fcjir George Grey is rightly creditedgin England with all the qualities of a careful adminis trator, and in the straightforward policy enunciated by his Government con cerning future dealings with the English creditors of the colony, bond-holders have, for the first time, a real guarantee of good

faith, a f;ict ■which they have not been slow to recognise.

Troubles arc thickening around the Ottoman Empire. After a prolonged straggle, in which the fiery fanaticism of the Moslem has blazed up in a last expiring eifort, the inevitable result—the result which all forsaw whose judgment was not warped by class bias and meretricious sympathy —is rapidly approaching. Weight of numbers and material, which in modern warfare are the chief data in estimating the probabilities of victory, have had their destined effect. From a military point or view, the whole of Middle and Western Bulgaria, right down to the Bal kans, is in possession of the Russian armies, and the road to Rumelia is open through the Balkan Passes at Slinvo on the cast, commanding the direct main road southwards to Adrianoplc, at Chipka in the centre, opening up the road to Hirmeuli, on the railway line between Philippopolis and Adriar.ople, and from Sophia on the west to Tatar Bazarjik, com manding the railway line from north-west Rumelia to Adrianoplc and Constantinople. The strategy of Mehenict Ali andSulicinau Pasha of operating on the front and flanks of the Russian armies disposed along the line of the Jantra to Tirnova, Selvi, and Plenva in a triangle, have signally failed. The Turkish stronghold of Plevna, com manding the western line of operation via road to the Etropol Balkans to Sophia, and also the road to Lovatz, Gabrova, and the Chipka Pass, has fallen into the hands of the Russians, who have pushedf«.r.vaid by successive operations upon Sophia, and thence throughTrajan'sjGate to Balitza, taming the right of the army under Mehemefc Ali, which was intended to relieve Plevna, driving it westward to Dubnitz i, cutting it oil' from railway communication with Adriauople, and placing it in a position of extreme jeopardy. From Balitza the railway line i; open to the Russians 'to Phillippopolis, Hir mcnli, and Adrianople a distance of about 170 miles. From the fact that the Russians concentrated their energies upon Plevna, where by latest accounts the Czar had reviewed an army of 70,000 men, it would appear that their intended main lino of offensive operation against Adrian ople will be by the railway from Sophia. The telegrams also state that at, about the same time General Gourkahad been re inforced at Orchanic by 40,000 Russian troops. Probably Mchemet Ali will ex perience great difficulty in retiring-towards Philippopolis with the disconnected wing of his army, so as to check the Russian right line of operation. Turning to the Liussian left line of operation, we find that it lias been pushed forward to Elena (or Iliana, as it is marked on some maps),and about ten miles further to Dctrova (also marked Bebrova), about midway on the main road from Tim ova to the Slivno Pass. Sulieman Pasha, commanding the Turkish army in this quarter, had made a desperate attempt to force back the Hussianleftupon the Danube, so as to relieve Plevna, but has been steadily forced backwards, rallying again at Elena, but again having to retire southwards beyond Bt;tr.ova, so as to cover his retreat through the Slivno Pass towards Adria nople, which now appears to be the main strategical point of future operations. In the centre in the Chipka Pass the Russians still hold the gateway to Kasanlik, Eski Sagra, and Hirmcnli, and we shall pro bably hear shortly that the Turks have been" compelled to abandon the siege of the Russian positions in this Pass. Turning to wards the north-west corner of Bulgaria,an other Turkish force is hopelessly pinned in at Widdiu, with a hostile Servian army ad vancing from the west, and the Roumanians occupying the line of Lorn Palanka, and effectually barring escape southwards, or any attempt to operate upon the Russian communication. Out off from outer communication, Widdin is not likely to stand a long siege. Thus the Turks are in this position : Their base is at Adrianople where 50,000, men have been hastily massed by Raouf Pasha, which may be further reinforced by a portion of Mehemet Ali's army, and perhaps by nearly thewhole of Sulieman Pasha's, which has its retreat open through the Slivno Pass. Should the war be prolonged, and the Russians be able to push southwards in spite of the rigours of the winter, the future strategic operations will converge upon Adrianoplc, with this difference, however, that the Turks, instead of being divided upon the flanks of the enemy, will be gradually drawing upon a common main base, from which thy can operate upon interior lines, while the Russian lines of ope.ation will, be divided, and exposed to attack in detail. Wo believe, however, that with their great numbers, and Unshed with recent victories, the Russian advance and concentration upon Adrianople will be accomplished, unless mediation step in to save the Otto man Power from utter prostration.

The Mayor of Parncll has not been treated well by the Borough Council. Wednesday was the day for the induction of his Wor ship, but at noon, the time appointed, only two members were present, and for the absence of a quorum no business could be transacted. The councillors have this excuse that being mail day and reception day as well they could not get away from town to attend the induction. We are not quite certain how the affair will e:id. The date of induction being absolutely fixed by law, it looks at first sight as if the neglect made the election invalid, but we believe there is no intention to force matters to such extremities, and therefore if the mistake can be rectified it, will, in a quiet sort of way. The Council meets to-night, and we presume the subject will crop up. At Onclmnga, we believe a simi lar difficulty occurred.

The following .sums in aid of the Indian Famine Relief Fund have been received at my ofiice up to 2 p.m. this day : —Amount from Mr Shanaghan, £1 5s 6'd ; do. Mr E. Joseph, 5s ; do. Mr C. Meenan, 5s ; do. Mr McTavish, 5s ; do. J. Stewart, ss. Total receipts to date, £1,957 12s 11.— F. G. Ewington, Hon. Sec. per T.D.H.

The acceptances for the Wellington Cup close to-day.

A number of sharks have been seen within the last few days in the waters of the Waitcmata, and particularly in the neighbourhood of Shelly Beach. Mr Mase field and Mr Hughes made several attempts to catcli a monster near Mr Masefield's residence, and which was at length har pooned by a sailor, and got on shore. On being opened fifteen young ones were taken out, and attracted a good deal of curiosity. As boys are in the habit of bathing where the sharks are frequently seen, we advise such adventurers to keep a .sharp look out, or, like the prophet of o3d, they will be swallowed—without his chance of being cast up upon dry land.

The pupils of City East school, at the close of the scholarship's examination, presented to Mr Worthington, the head master of the school, in token of their esteem for his abilities as a public teacher, c handsomely carved bookslide, inkstand and tray, with penholder and paper knife. The presentation was made on behalf of the boys, by John Smart. In the evening, at the close of the year's' scholastic labour, Miss Dnnxiing,in the name of the Teach sis' Training Class, presented to the same gentleman a handsome clock in testimony of their respect. Mr Worthington suitably acknowledged the gifts, and informed the members of .the class that in future they would meet in flic new .school of Wellesley-streefc East, and ho trusted the Board of Education would allow him to organise his class, so, that the more advanced students might be enabled to pursue the higher branches of educa tion.

An election will be held at the Court house, Onehunga, on Jr. Mary 10th, for the return of a Councillor ii. room of Councillor W. Waller, elected Ma. >v.

Mr Standish has b en a third time elected Mayor of New Plymouth.

Mr Howe informs us that it is untrue that he yesterday gave in his adhesion to Sir George Grey. He states that during an interview of courtesy, he informed the Premier that he considered the obligations of party honourably binding upon every man, and that a representative was not justified in leaving hiss party without very good reason. He said, however, that he had given a. cordial support to the bills introduced by Sir George Grey during the latter part of the late session, and would continue to do so next session if the Gov ernment brought down measures to com plete the policy begun by the colonisation of the Ltinl Fund. This we take to be a qualified promise of support. Mr Howe has. bean good enough to tell us the grounds on which ho supported and proposes to support Sir George Grey ; we should feel obliged to him if he would furnish us with duo good reason why he, as an Auck land member, ever became one of Atkin son's followers. It is also a, nice question for Mr Howe to decide whether the ties of party are more honourably binding than the ties which should connect a member with the constituency which he had been chosen to represent. Mr liowc has had so many clearly expressed intimations of the feelings of the Thames electors that lie should not be in any want of " good reasons " why it is at least time now to withdraw all connection with a political faction which has always been inimical to the interests of Auckland.

The opening match of the Artillery Car bine Club will take place to-morrow after noon on the Mount Eden Range. This Club has been in existence about four months, and the members generally have made good progress. The object is to encourage the members to excel in the use of the carbine at the target. All members of the Company will be entitled to iire, but only the members of the Club will par ticipate in the prizes, which will be pre sented 3by the President, Capt. Burns, after the match. The tand of the Company will be present, and should the weather prove favourable, a large attendance of the general public may be anticipated.

Tho prizes presented at a recent school examination .it Parawai were of a strikingly practical character. Instead of the gift gewgaws, albums, and goody-goody Looks usually offered as prizes on these occasions, the three young ladies whose talents had been most conspicuous through out the examinations "were pre sented with elegant satin-wood rolling pins, with winch to prepare the puff paste for the approaching Christmas festival. The Thames "Star" tells us that the fair trio received the rolling-pins "with charm ing modesty." Bravo! Bravissima! We hope to see this practical lesson in domestic economy generally taught in our,seminaries. The idea might be extended say in the direction of wash-tubs and wash-boards, and a competition at sewing on shirt buttons. No one knows the misery inflicted on help less Benedicts by wives who have not gone through a thorough course of training in sewing on buttons. Lifeismadeupof trifles, and a bnttonlcss collar or wristband is often the source of much matrimonial un pleasantness. By all means let us have luumlry matches, ironing matches, shirt button sewing matches, and such other competitions as will .serve to lit a girl for her destiny.

A correspondent writing from Cambridge desires to thank Major Clare for a donation of £5 for the efficient services rendered by the Cambridge Reed Band at the opening ceremonies of the railway. He also notices favourably the manner in -which Mr F. A. Whitaker gave the toast of the band. Our correspondent says the )progress made by the band is wonderful, and most credi table to Mr Mackintosh. The instruments cost about £150, which was paid by the members, who have also to]keep up weekly subscriptions for music and other expenses. They are deserving of the support of all Waikato.

Newmarket is advancing in the right direction. Perhaps for years, the main grocery establishments in Newmarket have never agreed to close at an early hour ; one would keep open and the others were compelled ; but now we see Messrs Hogg and Dinnison have taken the initiative and close at 7 o'clock, Saturdays excepted. When these gentlemen close, the small places cannot hurt. The publ.'c are asked to purchase, and send their orders early. •

Messrs B. Tonks and Co., will oflcr for .salt; to-morrow (Saturday) at noon, the booths, with sole right to sell liquors and refreshments, at Ellerslie Gardens on Boxing Day.

The Auckland journeymen bakers will hold a special business meeting this even ing ill the British Hotel, at half past 7 o'clock, Mr James McLean in the chair. Every member of the society i-s requested to be present, as matters of importance to the trade will be introduced.

On his return from the Kawau, about the 27th i ust., the Premier will visit the Thames and address his constituents, after which ho will return to "Wellington ; visiting on his way, if time will allow, Tauranga and Gis borne. Mr J. 0. Brown, M.H.R., lias gone in the Hiuemoa with Messrs (Seed and Blackett.

Amongst tlic passengers who loft Wel lington for the Manukau yesterday iv tlie s.s. Wellington were the Hon. J. Sheehan and the Hon. floaui Nahc. '

On Wednesday last, at thn conclusion of the preparatory service at the Presby terian Church, Otahuhu, Miss Sarah Mucky, daughter of the Rev. John Macky, was presented with a pvir.se containing 22 sovereigns, in recognition of her efforts for the improvement of the congregational psalmody in the church and Sabbath-school. The Rev. J. Macky returned thanks on oehalf of his daughter.

The "Northern Advocate" says that coal from the Kamo mines can be put into Auckland at 13s Gd per ton as soon as the proposed tramway has been completed. It is proposed to establish the terminus at Limcbunier's Creek, where vessels of hirgc size would find sufficient depth of water. Exhibits will be sent from the Otago schools to the Ballarat Juvenile Industrial Exhibition.

A curious point has recently been decided in London. Thomas Phillips and Robert Cable were charged with being drunk and incapable in a public thoroughfare. They were in a cart, Cable lying down on the bottom, and Phillips having the reins, but quite incapable of driving. The Magistrate lined Phillips, but discharged Cable, observing that he could not line a man who was simply drunk in his vehicle. It would be monstrous if a gen+leman going home from dinner in his carriage were to betaken out and charged because he had drunk too much wine.

A cricket match between the eleven chosen to meet the Canterbury team and the next sixteen will be played in the Domain to-morrow afternoon. No doubt the match will cause a great deal of interest. The following are the names of the sixteen : Messrs. J. W. Nolan, E. Whitaker, Lank ham, W. Philson, R. Mason, J. Macky, T. Macky, Lawry, Wright, Browning, Coates, Cameron, Pemberton, YY. Dufaur, Brassey, and Swanson.

The Victoria Company has communicated with the Thames Scottish, offering to fire the return match at the Mount Eden rifle-range during the holidays, provided that the teams should change weapons when half of the match lias been tired. At a meeting of the Thames Scottish on Wednesday evening, the challenge was accepted, the nun agreeing to change weapons. The conditions as to stakes, &c., were made similar to those in the first match. The affair comes off in about three weeks from the present time.

Mr Hats well, of Princes-street, has just received a large importation of curiosities and fruits for Christmas, Is per advertise ment ; also a pretty holly tree, direct from the county of Gloucester.

The members of the Auckland branch of the Hibernian Australasiau Catholicßenelit Society will hold their fourth annual meet ing this eveuing, in St. Patrick's Hall, at 8.30, for presenting the report, electing officers, &c , for the coming year.

The drawing in connection with Mr <Thas. Burton's < Art Union of Christmas Cakes takes place at 6 o'clock this evening, in Mr Dornwell's Hall, Darby-street. A melancholy death recently occurred on board the Wallace on her passage from Nelson. Three German Missionary pastors had on the same day married three Hanoverian ladies at the Lutheran Church at Upper Montere, and were proceeding to the North Island to spend their honeymoon. Shortly after leaving Nelson, however, one of the clergymen died suddenly5. We understand that Mr G. W. Binney has obtained the Auckland agency of the Sun Insurance Company, London, which is one of the oldest Insurance Companies in the world ; and that he will shortly open a branch office.

The proceedings of the Police Court, during the hearing of the larceny case, were several times interrupted by one of the unemployed, who fell asleep several times and snored loudly ; to the amusement ot those present, breaking out in one of his dreamy fits "Long live Sir George Grey." He was at length persuaded to try the fresh air and a pinch of snuff; and re-entered the Court somewhat refreshed. Presently, however, he relapsed into another slumber, and broke out afresh. A constable was then at his elbow, and kept him awake by frequent nudges. The Relieving Officer has applied for and obtained permission to dispense a portion of meat for a Christmas treat fcr the poor who are iv receipt of relief, and will be glad to see them call upon him to receive their orders for same.

A special religious service -will be held this evening iv the Mission Church of St. Thomas, in honour of the Apostle of the Dedication. The service will be interest ing in several respects, as the prizes will be given after the service to the school children by Bishop Cowie; and possibly it will be the last occasion on which the liev. K. S. Hassard will preach, as he will leave for England immediately. The proceedings will be interspersed with music, and an address will be delivered by Mr E. J. Phillips.

Brett's Auckland Almanac and Provincial Handbook will be published on Tuesday, and will contain portraits of the Bishop of Auck land, Mr Whitaker, Mr Sheehan, and the retiring Mayor, Mr Hurst, besides IS2closely printed pages of reading matter, including a now guide to the Lakes and Hot Springs of Eotorua and Rotomahana, a history of the commercial institutions of New Zealand, fuller descriptions of the Auckland provincial country districts, raid places of interest, besides a large amount of other valuable informa tion. The price, as heretofore, is one shilling.

CABLEGRAMS.

Latest War News.

(Reutee's Telegrams pee Press

Agency)

PORTE SOLICITS MEDIATION

RUSSIAN ADVANCE ON BETROVA

LONDON, December 17.

A circular despatched by the Porte has been received here soliciting mediation, and proposing a collective intervention of the European Powers in order to stop bloodshed, but the peace conditions are unstated.

The Italian Government have accepted the proposal for mediation by the Porte, but decline to engage in mediation

singly. The Russians are advancing upon Betrova from Elena.

Consols are Dsi. LONDON (undated.)

Russian reinforcements are arriving before Erzeroum. Several skirmishes have taken place before Erzeroum. GERMANS DECLINE MEDIATION. LONDON, December 19.

The German Government have refused to entertain the Turkish proposal foi mediation.

The Russians have occupied Betrova. The "Globe" publishes a rumour tha Parliament will meet on the 7th Jauuary in consequence of a critical condition o: affairs in the East.

RUSSIANS REINFORCED AT ORCHANIE.

TURKS ANXIOUS FOR MEDIATION

[SPECIAL TO THE MELBOL'KXE " AUGUS";

LONDON, December 16.

Servia justifies her declaration of Avar against Turkey on the ground of oppres sion. Forty thousand Russians reinforced Gene ral Gourko at Orchame. It is improbable that Russia will consent to an armistice unless upon definite peace proposals. The Servians were checked in their first emounter with the Turks.

It is sta-ted that before the assembling of the .Turkish Parliament, the Sultan, un known to members of the war party, called Rafret, Rucuf, and Raschid Pashas, and the Grand Vizier, to a private council. He expressed string peace sentiments, and desired a telegram to be dispatched to the European Courts, begging immediate medi ation. Italy lias given a favourable reply.

The " Times " impresses both combatants with the necessity of speedy agreement. It recommends concession on the part of the Turks, and moderation on the part of the Russians.

f" The cable ship Hibernia, with 500 miles of cable, Avas wrecked at Maharatta Bay. No lives Avere lost.

The Lusitania sailed on the Sth Decem ber.

FRANCE.

LONDON, December 16. The French Assembly has voted direct taxes, and two-twelfths of the Budget.

N. Z. LOAN AND MERCANTILE AGENCY'S PRODUCE TELEGRAM.

LONDON, December 15.

WOOL.—The sales closed at the level of last sales on 14th inst. Fifty thousand bales have been held over for future disposal. 60,000 bales have been taken for export. A good many second-hand parcels have been offered during the past sales. Cross-bred firmer ; superior greasy, market easier; scoured, market unchanged; superior combfng washed, market un changed. Tallow.—Market quiet. Mutton, 40s; beef, 38s 6d per cwt.

Wheat. — Market quiet. Foreign arrivals heavy. Adelaide is worth 66s per 49Glbs; New Zealand is worth 50s per 4961b5.

Leather.—Market quiet ; best sides 101 d.

NEW ZEALAND STOCKS TN THE LONDON MARKET.

WELLINGTON, Thursday. The following is a copy of the telegram which has been received by the Government from the Agent-general: —

LOIS DON, December 15. " All the colonial stocks have risen ; New Zealand, especially, have never been so high as theynow are. Consolidated fives, 107 : other fives, 105 i j four and a halfs 982.—(Signed) Vogel." '

AUSTRALIAN.

APPROPRIATION BILL POSTPONED.

PAYMENT OF MEMBERS BILL

RESTORED,

MELBOURNE, Dec. 21st. The Legislative Council laid aside jthe Appropriation Bill "without a division.

The Assembly has adjourned to the sth February. Several important measures remain mi d.'alt with.

The Postmaster-General asked the Coun cil to restore the payment of Members Bill to the paper to be dealt with on its merits.

TELEGRAPHIC.

AN AGED REPROBATE AND HIS YOUTHFUL VICTIM.

DEPARTURE OF THE TAIIANAKI.

:^PROTECTIVE WORKS.

COAL COMPANY.

LIVELY TIMES FOE LAWYERS,

(FROM OUlt OV.'N CORRESPONDENT.

COROMANDEL, this day.

ivAPANGA.

Kapanga.—The manager reports having received a large sum of money from England yesterday. Work will not be started until after Christinas.

ENTERTAINMENT.

An entertainment, given by Miss Emma Smith, last night was a treat and greatly successful J Thepeiformers w^re thoroughly up in parts, and great praise is due to Miss Bennett, who would do credit to any stage. Her rendering or Jessie's Dream was nearly perfect.

RUSSELL, this day.

PASSENGERS PER lONA,

Sailed : Fawn, Spitfire, and lona. Pas sengers :—Messrs Kenworthy, Blair, J. and T. Keenan, Ogilvie, Squire, Earl, and Lovell. Misses Hickton, Jarvis, White, Greenway, Mackcy, Smith, and Ken worthy.

COROMANDEL, this day.

LATEST MINING.

Tokatea.—The manager reports the mine in a satisfactory state, and a quantity of picked stone from the stopes in various levels.

The Phoenix, cutter, has arrived with coal for the Kapanga mine.

The examination of the Kapanga school is going on to-day.

NAPIER, this day.

Griffon, a married man of over fifty, was charged with the seduction of a, girl named West, thirteen years' of age, yesterday. The girl was only ten years of age when the alleged seduction took place. Since then she had a child by Grifl'en, which died

on Friday last. The mother of the girl, when in the witness box, confessed she could not read, and did not know the year when her children were born, as she left all that business to her husband. The girl gave her evidence clearly, and appeared perfectly unabashed. Griffen was com mitted for trial at the next sittings of the Supreme Court. He was allowed bail, himself in £50 and two sureties of £50 each. Several properties have changed hands lately at high figures.

(PHESS AGENCY.)

WELLINGTON, this day.

The Taranaki sailed from Nelson for Wellington last evening. Passenger for Auckland, Rev Kempt-home.

HOKITIKA, this day.

Out of twenty-four plans for River Pro tective Works, submitted by the Hokitika Harbour Board to the Engineer-in-Chief, Wellington, the one recommended by the Engineer, and adopted by the Board, was designed by James Park, of Hokitika, a young man employed in the Saw Mills, who received a bonus of £250. Many first class Engineers competed.

DUNEDIN, this day.

The "Walton Company held its animal meeting. The result of the year's work is a profit of £666. £1000 is set apart for dividends at the rate of 20 jer cent.

gTIMARU, this day.

It was rumoured in town to-day that Judge "Ward brings another action of libel against Mr Ball, proprietor of the Timaru " Times," and it is also asserted pretty freely that tbe latter brings an action, damages £2,000, against Judge "Ward for defamation.

SERIOUS ACCIDENT.

A SERIOUS accident occurred this afternoon in Cook-street. It appears from what we can learn that a navvy named H. Musker was working with other men at the cutting in Cook-street, when a fall of earth took place, burying Musker underneath. The injuries sustained by the unfortunate man are severe, and he apparently suffers from internal injuries. A cab was procured, and the sufferer taken to his residence at the Forester's Arms Hotel, where he is now lying.

U. S. MINSTRELS.

THERE was a good attendance at the Theatre Royal last evening io witness the first appearance of the United States Minstrels, who are strong in numbers and in talents, and bid fair to have a popular season in Auckland. The troupe includes some members favourably known *to Auckland audiences, and who have an Australian and American reputation in negro minstrelsy and eccentricities. When the curtain was raised the stage was occupied by no fewer than eleven vocalists andj instrumentalists, with the orthodox corner men, who throughout last night's entertainment displayed a degree of humour and eccentricity quite equal if not superior to any that have visited Auckland. Tiae puns and repartee were sparkling and original, and far above the average of the poor, stale, thread-bare jokes generally per petrated at this class of entertainment. Here is a specimen : Banjo to Bones, "How would you have felt if you had been like Jonah, in the whale's belly ?" Bones, "Awfully down in the mouth. How would you have felt ?" Banjo, -'I should have felt awfully sucked in." Each of the sallies of these two worthies was received with hearty laughter. After the overture, the very pretty song "The Flower of May," was sung by Mr E. Ameiy in excellent voice, the chorus being well rendered by the company, with musical accompaniments. "You may kiss| me and caress me," a comic song (Mr T.,Hudson) with chorus, was amusingly sung. In the pretty negro melody "Close the shutters, Willies dead," the air was most tastefully sung by Mr G. W. Rockefeller, whose voice has lost none of its range and sweetness; and in the choruses the voices were well balanced and blended with fine effect. This and the song " Kiss me, mother," —'in which the powerful compass of Mr T. Campbell's voice was displayed with excellent effect, and the chorus werejjequallyigood—were the gems of the vocal portion of the first part. iS1 ext followed " Flewy Flewy," a lively song and chorus (Mr C."Holly), and " Hark the drum," a stirring martial song by Mr L. Braham, with cornet obligato, which elicited rounds of applause and an enthusias tic encore. " Scenes from the Circus," was an amusing travesty, the_ conclusion of which threw the audience into uncontrollable laughter. The second part opened with selections by the orchestra, after which Messrs Hudson and Holly secured an encore in their skilful " double "clog medley." The great quartette, " Crowned with the Tom pest," from the opera of "Ernani," by Messrs Braham, Rockefeller, Campbell, and Aniery, was unquestionably the gem of the evening, and shewed that, in addition to their other attractions, the company possesses musical abilities of a high order. In response to a hearty encore, " Come where my love lies dream ing." was sung with exquisite taste. In the solo and duets on the single and double whistle Mr G. Lingard displayed wonderful skill, and the novelty of the per formance fairly brought down the house. The variations were cleverly executed, and the clear flute-like tones which Mr Lingard succeeds in extracting from a pair of common-looking tin whistles shews what may be accomplished by skilful manipula tion. The sketch ''Thompson's Dead," v nigger farce, was very mirth-provoking. Mr Braham's song, "The Death of Nelson," |

was a fine vocal display md «r -x deserved applaud Ye c? W wound tip with anolltrfense enHffl^^ would be an actor," ir h*ch- g c£ c, n, fed «« He homeia excellent humour Vu aUdlen cc will appear this evening sail fn r o COmPany and are well worthy o f° a Kit tme days ability, original humour "ami nisicf il eccentricities and clever dancin^^^e eaual to any troupe that has vfee?^

THE CHORAL SOCIETY.

"THE MESSIAH."

It is the animal custom of the fr Society to perform the oratorin * ral -Messiah''evcryCi,;stn^!S°^tUe event is looked upon as a stand! ,- fi among the celebrations of th P .S" dlsJl Last night the great hall v.-as well firff s hear Handel's grand work. The C W dto singers was unusually strong, the So £ f in good voice, and the nr «? ts particularly effective, and as m/t?* 1* conducted with his usuoi rOWB and skill nothing was V, ° + -re to give eclat to tha concert' T'J ng tare and pastoral symphony Z!ll delicately rendered, indeed the inst-im talista throughout showed an fe?" acquamLance with the music, added t 7? in expression. Mrs Mitchell, Mis-, tT Miss A. Maunsell, Miss Ed Mr -R +' Messrs E. and G. Harker, and Mr BuriS, tt> were the soloists! We have nofjfiSfift Mitchell sing better for year, Heri 7 prctation of the admired air "I know S my Redeemer livcth"' was the gem oF tk evening. ° lile The performance, taken as a wliol« decidedly the best rendering of the oratorio which we have heard in Auckland and we regret that the exigencies of sinsl compel us to curtail our notice. Sigma

Mr Curtis and His Constituents.

(BY TJELEGRAPH.)

Mr Curtis addressed the electors' W fe f He sketched out the circumstances Vwh r " rise to th« Middle Party in the hK gJ£S stated that they were complexly deceive/^ Sir George Grey's friends, who totd tffi£ J^ perfectly without a wish himself to b? CO m e f member of it, but as soon as the Atkinson & try was deposed, they insisted on Sir Geo"£ Grey bringing m a new government. AmoS his reasons ror opposing S:r George r,S advance to power, Mr Curtis said he xnll avowed separationist, and must attempt to carr- out that policy, or shew that he sacrificed pnncples to place and power, and in either case he was not to be trusted with the Govern merit of a country. He alluded to Sir Gem-So Grey's Auckland bombarding and snpprmin dent position of correspondence, and avowed that one who could be guilty of such extravagant conduct was utterly unfit to occupy the nositirm of Premier With reference to his conduct the Land Bui, he characterised it as an attempt to make the (governor his instrument in com mit ting an act of despotic tyranny. He consirt ered thai- the proposal to reduce the Minister? s vlaries came with a bad grace from Sir George Grey, who had a handsome private fortune and a large pension from the Imperial Government He considered it a remarkable ciivuimtannn that Messrs Barff and Shrimski, who always voled with the Government, went against tl^eui on this question, the inference bein* that'thev were voting to ord-r. Jrie defended Maior Atkinson against the ckaiga of indect-nt eagerness to return to office, statin^ that if Maine was to be attributed to hira it was equally attributable to thd party with whom he was acting.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before R. C. Bar tow, Esq.. It.M.) AGED MARY.

Mary Burke, who appeared ]ike Mobe in tears, was charged with drunkenness, pleaded guilty, and was fined 5s and costs.

TPIE NYMPH OF ALEXANDRA-STREET,

Elizabeth Dedrick was charged -sritli being drunk and disorderly last° night in Queen-street, to the terror of a number of persons passing at the time.

Prisoner said she was not so bad as she seemed.

Constable Macdonnell deposed that prisoner was flinging herself about Last night, and soliciting persons to buy bird cages. She had none with her.

Fined 20.s and costs, or 4S hours' im prisonment.

PETER'S TROUSERS AND MUFF.

Considering the trousers not enough He whiffled further and he stole a muff.

John Whittle was charged with stealing on the 20th inst, a blanket, vest, trousers, aud muff, value 10s, the property of Peter James Mack, of this city.

Peter James Mack, smelter, deposed that he left some clothing at the •'' Thistle" on Tuesday last, in charge of the barman; it was left on a stool, and when he called for the things Last night they had passed away.

Prisoner said he also left some clothing in the Thistle, and took complainant's bag by mistake for his own.

William Sheehan deposed that the bags were left at the hotel, much against the wish of those in attendance, and when piisoner came, he told him to clear his dirty things away. They were a disgrace to the place. He took the two bags.

Constable Bourke took prisoner into custody.

His Worship cautioned prisoner, and under the circumstances allowed him his

liberty.

CITY KATES. A number of city rate cases were settled out of Court.

LARCENY AS A BAILEE,

Edward Piercy was brought up on a charge of larceny as a bailee of the sum of £126 on the 30th September, the property of John Macpherson; also on several charges of embezzlement, viz., in Jane and July, £S, in two sums; in August, the sum of £9 ISs 6d; in October, £9 3s; November 22nd, £3 5s ; the monies of the said John Macpherson. Mr Dnfaur appeared to watch the case on behalf of the prisoner. Sub-Inspector Pardy conducted the prose cution on behalf of the police. The charge of embezzling £9 ISs 5d was first proceeded with. John Macpherson deposed tnat he was a storekeeper of Richmond, Bay of Plenty. He knew prisoner, who was in his employ until September last as master of the cutter Leah, of which he was owner. He ordered him in September last to get some posts, and gave him £15 in single notes to purchase them with. In three weeks after he returned, but brought no posts with him. On asking about them prisoner said he could not get them. He then asked him to return the money when he said that he advanced £S to David Murray, at Tairua, who had agreed to get the posts. Prosecutor replied "Ted, you have done wrong, there are two bad paymasters in the world—the one that pays too soon and the other that pays too late." He daid he had used the balance of £7 for his own advantage. He went to see murray upon the matter, who supplied him with'3ll posts. Murray then came on board for a settlement. Prisoner was present. He was about to deduct the £S which Piercy said he had paid to Murray, but which sum Murray said he had never received. Prisoner then_ said "I've paid them some money." Young Murray denied this, and affirmed that they got a bay of potatoes some time previously of prisoner, but no money. Prisoners made noicpiyto Murray's statement. He an as never accounted for the mouev. To Mr Dufaur : The prisoner had beeam employ about a year, there is a running account between us. He had received money in Auckland without handing it i»> and such money had been entered in prisoners account. I paid £3 per 100 for tne posts received. I have not brought niy book with me. Joseph Comes, seaman, proceeded witli prisoner and Mr Macpherson to the boat harbnnr for the puriri posts, which were supplied by Murray. Prisoner desired witness to ask Macpherson for a loan of £10 to pay £S to Murrry, as he had told Mac pherson he had paid it. He asked for £10 for fear thatj Macpherson might be suspi cious if he" asked for £8. Macpherson refused to advance the £10. ggThe charge of larceny of £126 as a bailee, he being a servant of Mr Macpherson, a«« converting the same to his own use iv Sep tember last, was not proceeded with.

VB.E i \ JLMNG BTAH/FRIOA.Y. DECEMBER 21, 1877



S" PECIAL in HEAP T INES IN DRAPERY AND CLOTHING FOR THE CHRIST M AS HOLIDAYS. H. ATKINS Will Shew the Following Cheap Lines During the Christmas Holidays :— A Large Lot of Rich, Bright. Black Silks at 3/11, as bright as sold at 5/6 Cheap Coloured Silks, beautiful shades Cheap Japanese Silks Cheap Dress Materials Cheap French Muslins A Job Line of Extra Quality Black Silk Jackets at one-third the original prices. Silk Umbrellas, splendid value, at 8/11 Lined Parachutes (Bought a Job) at 2/11, worth double Cashmere and Lace Fischus, Capes, &c, at Reduced Pi"ice 3 Cheap Lace Curtains, Table Linen, Quilts, Sheetings, and Manchester Goods, for the Christmas Holidays. In the CLOTHING DEPARTMENT Cheap Silk Dust Coat?, Black Alpacca Coats, Trousers and Vests, Tweed Suits, Paget, Galatea, and Sack Coats, Boys' and Youths' Suits, &c, &c, &c, All Marked at Low Prices for th e Christmas Holiday. THE NEW PITH HELMET. Job Lins of Men's Straw Hats at 1/11, half-price. Job Line of Boys' Straw Hats at 1/6, half-price. A Large Stock of MOSGIEL and other TWEED 3. Cheap Tweeds for Boys' Wear. EL Atkins. TTj £\f\ REWARD kS HITOHEN'S Jj $J\}\7 BLOOD RESTORER. As several Bottles, containing trashy worth less compounds, have been palmed off on un suspecting people on the pretence of thnir b ning the celebrated " Jliiehons' Blood Restorer," the Proprietor respectfully cautions his patients to see that the Bottles bear both his TRADE Mark and Sig.n'atuke. He also warns the unscrupu lous persons who, under falso pretences, receive people's money, that £100 Pounds Eeward will be given on con victiou of persons guilty of infringing his rights. 11. HITCIJENS.



/"I H E A P IT ATS! \j JUL CHEAP HATS ! ! CBEAP CLOTHING!! A Quantity of Men's and Boy's Drab and Black Fslt Hats will bo offered at m- GREAT REDUCTION TO CLEAtt. Also, a Parcel of CLOTHING, comprising Men's and Boy's Tweed Suits, Trousers and Vests, &c. These Goods are slightly soiled, and will be sold REALLY CHEAP. W. HATTRAY, OLOTHTKR AND OUTFITTER. Ttt-EW 17 KAJj AN D TT OUS E, ArciCLAXD. TAXATIONAL FI RE AND MA RIN E VS INSURANCE COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND. Capital £1,000.000. RESERVE £50,000. RE-INSUBA.VGH FUND.... £20,000. Insurances effected against Fire and MARINft Loss of Kvery Description of Property, at Lowest Coeksnt Kates. Pkompt and Liberal Settlement of Claims. HENRY E. WILLIAMS, Manager, Auckland Branch. /CHRISTMAS PRESENTS AT THE \J CITY HALL FURNITURE ARCADE. PRESENTS, for Wives and Daughters PRESENTS, for Sons and Husbands PRESENTS. Quaint and Curious PRESENTS, Useful PRESENTS, Ornamental PRESENTS, Scientific PRESENTS, Beatific PRESENTS, for all Pockets PRESENTS, for all Prices. HOLLOW AY, GARLICK, & CRANWELL, Gity Hall Arcade. THE undersigned are now brin ing forward a Large Parcel of GENE 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 2/0 per pair Linen and Lace Goods, Cuffs, Collars, and Sets, in variety Ladies' Underclothing Umbrellas and Parachutes, Silk, Zanclla, Alpacca, &c. Lot of Flowers nt very low price, quite fresh Straw Hats, Ribbons, Gloves. &c. A Splendid Stock of Muslin, Lnce. and Lenoc Curtains, Counterpanes. Quilts, Damask Table Cloth-, Sheeting, Felt Squares Carpets. Floorcloth, China .Matting, Ticks, &c. I .urge-size Huckaback Towels at. /C each New Fancy Dress Materials. Japanese Silks, Coloured Ln.3r.res, Blaok Lustres, Kmbossed, Striped, and Check iUiislins. Prints, Sco. Brown Holland, from /(U per yard Union, Fancy Jean, and" Oxford Shirtings, very cheap __ , _ :V Line of Superior Quality Silk Mixed Fancy Shirting, at 2/3, usual price 3/0 per yard White and Grey Calico. Good Grey from ,'1 per yard Also, very large assortment of Gents' Shirts, White Longcloth. I'nion and All-wool Crimean, Fancy Silk Mixed Scotch Twill, Fancy Jean. Oxford, &c. Strong Tweed for Boys wear A Job Line of stout Mosgiel at, below Factory Braces, HhIK Ties. Scarfs. Collars, Cotton and Merino Hosiery. TJnderuhij-M, &«. • Leghorn, Tuscan, Straw, Jin i Drill Hats, lor * Boys and Men, &c, &c, &c. in he & allowed on all Ca-Oi Purchases or 20s. and upwards. rushbrook 8c brtdgman, Junction Drapery Warehouse, U PPEB QVKK N ■ STR S XT, AUCKLAND. TTNION INSURANCE COMPANY NEW ZKALAND. C APITAL £2,000,000. AUCKLAND B R ANCH: ,QUEE-N- S T R E E T, Next the Colonial Bank. FIRE DEPARTMENT. Insurances granted on Dwelling-housel?, Stores, Shops, Buildings in which trade in carried on, Merchandise, and Goods of every description. MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls oE Ships or Steamers. Merchandise oE all kinds, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at owkst Current Hates. r. h. Stevenson Manager.