SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

ott'tt watttp •This Afternoon, 9.21 HlUli waijvk—-, To _ morrow Morning, 9.45 SUN SET.—This Evening, 5.10 SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning, 6.18 MOON'S AGE.—Last Quarter, sth May, 10.58 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Pretty Jane, s.s., Helander, from Tauranga and

the South. Drover, brig. Stephens, from Newcastle Nellie, schooner, from Lyttelton Mazeppa, schooner, Sloane, from Noumea

DEPARTURES.

Manon, schooner, for Wangaroa a-id Lyttelton, lona, s.s., Farquhar, for the North.

IMPORTS.

Per Nellie from Lyttelton : 451 sacks oats, 10 sa :ks oatmeal, iSO bags do. 760 pkgs flour, 9cases hams and bacon, 20 sacks grass seed, 10 sacks wheat.—G. W. Owen, agent.

200 sacks oatts, 310 bag's oatmeal, 700 pkgs flour. —G. W. Owen. 201 sacks oats.—Niccol, Hendry and Co. Per Drover from Newcastle: 260 tons coal.— Cruickshank and Co, agents.

ARRIVAL OF THE MAZEPPA.

?.lessrs Nicool's new schooner Mazeppa has made a very fast maiden trip. She arrived this morning from Noumea, after a round voyage of exactly a month. She left Auckland on the Ist April, and arrived in Noumoa on the 9th, after a voyage characterised by fine S.E. winds. Sailed from Noumea on the 21st. For the first five days, had nothing but calms, and light southerly winds. After psssing Norfolk Island, had strong westerly winds, at times amounting to a gale. Made the North Cape on Sunday morning, at 10 o'clock. Oft the Kawau, the wind changed to the South. Anchored off the reef at 8 o'clock last Dight, and came into har bour this morning at 7 o'clock, The Mazeppa comes back in billast. Captain Sloane reports highly of her sailing- qualities. She was rather tender on the outward trip in consequence of heavy cargo having been unavoidably stowed on the top of light kauri timber. Passengers- Captain Pingard, Mr Butcher.

The owners of the Te Aroha are about to start her in the Riverhead trade.

The s.s. City of Sydney, the next outward mail boat, is advertised to leave here for San Francisco, via Kandavu and Honolulu, on the 9th inst.

.The s.s. Staffa did not leave for Tauranga yesterday as expected, but took her deprrture this afternoon.

The schooner Nellie arrived from Lytt«lton this morning after a run of 8 days. She brings a cargo of produce.

The brig Drover arrived from Newcastle this morning, after a fine run of nine and a half days. She brings a cargo of coals consigued to Messrs Cruickshank and Co. Captaim Stephens reports leaving on the 21st ult. Had variable winds, mostly westerly, right across to the Three Kings, which were sighted on Sunday morning at daylight. Down the coast had strong westerly winds.

The brig Drover passed the s.s. ilero, bound to Sidney, about lialf -way across, on Wednesday list.

The brigantine Amherst, from Newcastle, was passed by the brig Drover yesterday, off Cape The schooner now coming in is probably the same.

Messrs Wm. Me Arthur and Co. have purchased a share in the new schooner Active. They have also chartered the vessel for the Island trade, and will lay her on for Tonga as soon as her fittings are complete.

The s.s. Pretty Jane arrived early this morn ing, from Tauranga and the East Coast. Passeuvrers: Messrs Buckland. Russell, Collier, and Peterson. Cargo: 3 horses, 72 sacks potatos*, I cask tallow, 10 cases honey. The barnue Odalisk is loading wheat at Ade laide for Messrs Thornton, Smith and Firth. The three-masted schooner Floral Star is now on her way hither similarly freighted to the spnie firm.

The barquentine Rnm left the Thames this morning for Adelaide with 60,000 feet dressed kauri timer, and 30,000 ft rough timber Tho. Sapphire arrived at Tauranga ye3terday morning.

The ship Duke of Sutherland, which had to put into Port Chalmers, damaged, some weeks oack, left again for London yesterday.

Wo are informed to-day that the Emily Chap lin wi 1 not be laid on for London.

The Ann Gambles, now.parbly loaded with wheat at Lyttelton, is to come on here at once, and fill up for London under the auspices of the New Zealand Shipping Co.

Tha schooner Mariner was run into by the p.s. Tairua, yesterday evening. Her jibboom was carried away, and some other slight damage was sustained, The Mariner was anchored at the time within the forbidden limits between the Queen-street and the railway wharves, and con sequently the owner has no redress or claim for damages. This should be a caution to captains of vessels to attend to the instructions issued by the port authorities. Tho s.s. Hawea. Captain Wheeler, arrived alongside Onehunga wharf at 11*30 this morning. She left Port Chalmers at 2 p.m, on the 25th,and arrived at Lyttelton at 10 a.m. on the 26th: Sailed at 6 p.m. same day, and arrived at Wel lington at 10.30 a.m. on the 27th ; sailed again at 5.15 a.nu next mornine-, 28th ; arrived at Picton at 9.3 q, and sailed at ll"30 a.m. same morning; arrived at Nelson at 1.30 pm. same night; left Nelson at S"4l p.m. on the 29th; arrrived off Taranaki at 11 am., and sailed at 6 p.m. on the 30th. arriving as above. Experienced fine wea ther throughout the passage. She leaves again at li'TXi p.m. on Thursday. Passengers :—Mrs Murphy, Misses Fisher (2), Burne, Hanaghon Rev. W. C. Oliver, Messrs Kummer, Le Kloot Henderson. Gilmore, Macalliston, Jenkins Walters, Harding, T. Wood, Thornton, Harker' .Tamieson, and 15 steerage. Henderson and Macfarlane. agents. •

AUCKLAND STOCK AND MINING REPORT.

Bank«of New Zealand £20; buyers, £20. National Bank—Buyers, 695,- sellers, 703. >«< Colonial Bank—Buyers, 40s. Thames Gas—Sellers, 325. South British Insurance—Bos; sellers, 80s. National Insurance—Buyers, 30s. New Zealand Insurance—loos Standard Insurance—Buyers, 14s 6d. Union Sash and Door Co. (old)— Buyers, £8 5?. Red Queen—3s Id. Caledonian (dble)—6os to 70s; sellers, G7s Gd. Moanatairi—£ll ss, £11 10s, £12 ; buyers, £11 10s ; sellers, £11153. ggWaitekauri—Sellers, 16s. Alburnia—3Bs 6d, 40s ; buyers, 403. Young N.Z.—7s 6d. Queen of May—Buyers, 25s ; sellers, 27s Gd. Union Beach—Sellers, 30s 6d. Qrje^n of May—Buyer?, 21s; sellers, 22s 6d. Kuranui Hill—26s; sellers, 27s 6d. Piako—Buyers, 9s. Thames—Buyers, 45s : sellers, 60s. ■ - JOSEPH NEWMAN. Chairman.

CITY WEST ELECTION POLLING.

The polling for City West will commence to-morrow at the rooms of the Young Men's Christian Association, and will continue from 8 till 4 o'clock. It is to be hoped that the electors of City West, whichever they may favour, will be careful to record their votes, so that the result may be a complete test of the feelings of the electorate.

BIRTH.

REED.-On the 23rd April, at High-street, Duncdin, JVlrs. G. M. Reed of a daughter.

MARRIAGE.

LAIRD—CRE WE.—On the 2nd April, at the Office of the Registrar, Auckland, Wm, Laird to Henrietta Crcwe, both of Auckland.

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

TUESDAY, MAY 1, 1877.

For the cause that lacks assistance. For the wrong that needs resistance, Tor the future in the distance, And the good that we can do.

- I A CABLE message dated London the 29th, \ two days later than the dispatch published in last night's issue, .supplies a totally dilferent account of the first engagement of the war. Subsequent intelligence gives the victory to the Turks instead of to the Russian forces in Asia, and indicates Batomn a*the scene of the conflict. The contradictory character of the intelligence} might probably be traced to the different channels through which the news came. The earliest reports of the engagement ■would, in all likelihood, pass along the Russian, telegraph system, and cou!4 »ot

fail to tinge the event with the most favourable Muscovite colouring. The later report, coming by steamer down the Black Sea to Constantinople from Batoiun, might be relied on as au equally sanguine Turkish version of the issue. The practicejof both sides claiming victory is by no means new in the annals of war, and as all telegraph news from Asia must pass through biased sources, there will be considerable difficulty in discerning the truth or falsehood of the earlier reports of the campaign. It is evident, at least, that in Asia, as in Europe, Russia assumed the offensive. Batoum is a Turkish seaport on the Black Sea, situated between fifteen and twenty miles from the Russian frontier. It is the best harbour on that shore, is well fortified, and possesses a population of 3,000. The Turkish position ! of defence in Asia Minor rests its left Hank at Batoum ; its centre at Kars ; and the right flank on Bajazid. The three fortified towns command the main roads along the whole frontier of Russian Georgia, where tlie dominions of the Czar and Sultan meet. It is necessary to any advance into Asiatic Turkey that these posts shall be taken or masked, and Russia has established parallel centres of operation—Fort Nikolai threaten ing Batoum ; Adrianopol or Goumri on the frontier, about thirty miles from Kars, and Erivan inland from Mount Ararat which rises on the south-western border of the Russian dominions in this quarter. Erzc room, the chief city of Armenia, and a strongly fortified town, in the centre of a wide plain, 7,000 ft. above sea level, is about six days' march from Kars, and commands the roads inland from that place and Bajazid. It has been subject to many vicissitudes during the oft-recurring wars between Russia and Turkey. Ardalian. another town mentioned as the scene of hostilities, is about fifty miles north of Kars, and was surrendered without a struggle in 1855, the Turkish force in Asia being insufficient to hold it. In the outset of the last Avar, Turkey took the offensive in Asia, with a force gathered from the wild tribes of Asia-Minor and Syria, numerically much stronger than the enemy. With vigour and honesty among the Pashas, Russian Georgia would inevitably have fallen into Ottoman hands, and the rising of the population, and aid of the restless, liberty-loving Circassians would have rendered the conquest extremely embarrassing to Russia. The early advantages, however, culminated in nothing better than Bashi-Bazook raids and plunder ing expeditions directed against peaceful villages, which excited a bitter hostility among the previously favourably-disposed population. Dr. Sanclwith, who accom panied General Williams, the British Com missioner despatched to organise the defence of Kars, gives a graphic account of the melting away of the Sultan's Asiatic army under the infamous administration of the Pashas in command. The brief extract introduced here gives but a glimpse of the shocking story : —

" The fate, of the miserable army under Ahmed Pasha is among the darkest records of war. His whole faculties were bent upon money making. He had in Hie first place to recover the sums he had already expended in bribes at Constanti nople, and he had, besides, to make his fortune, I could not exaggerate the horrors the poor men suffered under his command, lor no chief can plunder without allowing a considerable license to his subordinates, so that the poor soldier was fleeced by every officer higher than the Maior. The greater part of the army was com posed of men seized in their villages, in viola tion of the usual rules of conscription, and the depressed moral state of middle-aged men, torn from their families, was but little calculated to carry them gaily through much suffering. On the approach of cold weather, the troops were crowded into the dark, ill-ventilated hovols of Kars, mid there they crouched during a long and rigorous season, deprived of their proper food and clothing, and dying of disease and hunger. During these winter months 20,000 men were carelessly buried in shallow graves in the frozen earth outside the town, and wild dogs and wolves fed on their remains. The greatest horrors were t o be seen in the hospitals, and many tin eye-witness has related them. Insufficient bedding, few or no medicines, and a most feeble and incapable medical stall', did little to assuage the sulferings of a starved and famishing multitude. That the poor doctors did their best is attested by the fact that out of seventy only forty survived; the rest having caught the diseases of the wards, and died gallantly at their posts. But few of the remain ing forty escaped fever. In .spite of such facts as these, the medical officers were .subjected to every privation and even degradation by tho incapable and dishonest cowards who pre tended to command the army. The details of these hospital horrors are too disgusting for publication. So feeble were the powers of lite in this starved and miserable army, and so tainted with scurvy was the whole mass of human suffering, that in most of the fever cases the extremities became amass of gangrene ere life was extinct. No great mortality, however, marked the muster-rolls sent to Constantinople, for tho pay, food, and appointments of the dead men went to fill the coffers of the Pasha and his myrmidons. The winter pawsed away, and many thousand graves in the burial-ground of Kars attest the horrors of that season.

When General Williams arrived, lie found the army of Kars reduced to 10,000 regulars ami irregulars. With these and about S,OOO reinforcements, he for six months successfully resisted the Russian investing army numbering 40,000, inflicting heavy loss' in repulsing the various at tempts at storming. He was ul timately starved out, the Pashas having stolen his supplies. The war in Asia was mainly confined to this memorable fiege, Batoum being held by 3,000 troops. The cable messages, already to hand, shew that tlie campaign in Asia will be pressed with vigour. The Russian army has taken tlie offensive, operating against Batoum, and appears to have met with a repulse.

To-day'B cable dispatches shew that the Turkish fleet has been put to work without delay, commencing the bombardment of Poti and' Anaklia, Black Sea ports in Trans-Caucasia, and Galatz on the Danube. Poti is situated at the mouth of the Rioni river. The harbour is a poor one, and is protected by oblong forts, Hanked by large towers. Anaklia, another Russian Black »Sea port, is "about 20 miles north of Poti. The selection of these ports for bombard ment is doubtless designed an a diversion in favour of the defenders of Batouin. Galatz, the first point at which the Rouma nian railways touch the Danube, is a large and ] r a\ cons Roumanian seaport, and an important strage fcical point,on which Russian troops have already been concen trated. The re-occupation of Ismail will recal the reverses of 1854-6. The cession of that fortress was one of the penalties exacted from Russia by the allied Powers as a guarantee for the freedom of the mouths of the Danube. From here, operations may be successfully piished against gunboats ascending the river. The occupation of Rouniania has thus been effected without opposition, and the bom bardment of Galatz opens the more stirring scenes on the Danube. The Porte, when too late, has appealed to tlie Powers for mediation. With the contemptuous re jection of the Protocol, the die was cast, but incompetency and obstinacy at Con stantinople has at length yielded to a fear that it had ventured too far upon the patience of Europe.

ANOTHER stupid canard has been perpe trated by the " Timaru Herald," and it is so manifestly absurd as to be hardly worth notice. The statement is that "The Governors of the Australian Colonies have received instructions from the Secretary of State as to their conduct, in the case of Great Britain being involved in the Avar. They are directed to resist any attack as far as possible, but if resistance is impos sible, then to comply Avith the requisition made by the enemy, the Empire under taking to repay the sums thus levied." This cock and bull story has probably emanated from some silly correspondent in England, who desired to play oft a joke at our expense. If, however, it should have the effect of arousing the colonists to the necessity of providing some means of defence against the predatory attacks of hostile cruisers, some good may come of a mere jest. While borrowed money has tjeea Iftvishe4 ift comparatively useless and

unproductive works, and in the purchase of political support, it would have been well if one or two hundred thousand pounds had been expended inthepurchaselof a few heavy guns, say of 32 tons, one of which at each of the principal ports of the colony, would have rendered them practically impregnable to such hostile ships as would be likely to visit these seas. All tho principal harbours of New Zealand are excellently adapted by nature forj easy defence, but at the present moment they are at the mercy of any miserable cruiser armed with old smooth bore muzzle loading guns of small calibre, that might suddenly swoop down upon our coasts, and levy black-mail upon the inhabitants. We can imagine the consternation that would be excited in Queen-street by the appearance on the Flagstaff of the signal "Russian warship in sight," followed by a boat's crew with a ilag of truce landing at the wharf, and civilly demanding an immediate payment of £100,000, accompanied by a plain intima tion, that failing payment within two hours, the city would be shelled from Rangitoto Channel ! Moauatairis would be tempo rarily forgotten in the rush for places of shelter, and ye burgesses would go about with bated breath, whispering "the foe, the foe, they come." Joking aside, it is to be hoped that the attention of Parliament will be directed to this matter next .session, and that steps will be taken to put the principal ports of the colony in a condition of defence. The Hying visit of one hostile cruiser to a few of the principal ports of the colony would inflict losses that would far more than outweigh the cost of a few heavy guns, not to count the ruinous loss that might be inflicted upon our commerce.

There will be found in our fourth page to-day a full report of the trial of Moffat, the Pakeha Maori, on the charge of manufactur ing gunpowder for the natives ; a budget of useful information as to the geography, resources, &c. of Servia, Montenegro, Turkish Egypt, Tunis, correspondence, and other matter.

The funeral ©f John Harding, a seaman, took place this afternoon in the Catholic cemetery. The deceased was 21 years of age, and had been a me*ibcr of the Naval

Brigade for four years. About sixtymembers of the Brigade, under command of Captain Le Roy, started from the Drill-shed at 1.45 p.m., headed by their band, under Band master Shanaghan, and proceeded to the Provincial Hospital, playing the march music of Wolfe's touching elegy on the burial of .Sir John Moore. The, body of deceased was laid in the Catholic cemetery, the funeral service being impressively read by the Rev. Father Macdonald. Deceased had no relations in the colony. A statue of the late Dr. Featherstone has been completed at Wellington at a cost of £200. Sir Cracroft Wilson, of Clnistchurch, generally known as " the Nabob," in allusion to his former services in India, has had a narrow escape of being killed by a falling tree, which severely cut his head. Mr William Cooper delivered his opinion last evening, before the members of the St. James' Mutual Improvement {Society, on the present war in the East. Mr W. Gorrie occupied the chair. Mr Cooper evinced but little .sympathy with the Turks, and considered that the erasure of the Ottoman Empire from the chart of the world would be a consummation devoutly to be wished. He expressed himself in favour of the occu pation of Constantinople by Russia. The speaker's views were not acceptable to the majority of the class. We have been requested to remind ap plicants for the various oMicers required for City Waterworks, that applications made some time since for employment will not be sullicient. Fresh applications, in accor dance with advertisement, must be sent in on or before the Sth inst. The annual sale of the Auckland Market stallages and dues will take place in the first week of J tine. Six plans and designs for neAV slaughter houses at Western Spring* have been received by the City Council. Some of them are very elaborate. The accepted plan is not yet decided upon. It would appear that after the committal of Sherrhi in the charge of libelling Mr G. M. Reed, in a letter written to the "Wai j tangi Tribune," Mr Heed offered to stop1 the proceedings which he had commenced against Mr Cuming, the proprietor, on con dition of his publishing an apology and paying the sum of £200, probably to recoup the expenses of the prosecution of Sherrin. '• Mr Cuming was willing to make the apology, but said he was quite unable to pay the money demanded. The case there fore proceeded, and Cuming was committed for trial, but he afterwards published an apology with a report of the case.

Messrs. Flood,Vickers,and Robert Hornc, have been admitted to membership in the Auckland Stock and Mining Association.

The New Zealand Shipping Company, announce as their next ship for London from this port the Ann Gambles, a hnndy iron vessel of 424 tons register. She is now loading wheat at Lytteltoii, and will arrive here in about a fortnight with half her loading for London on board. " Rattlin the Reefer " writes from Ilowick upon school matters. The burden of his complaint is that the school is crowded with little children too young for school, who, he suggests, goto swell the average on which the teacher's salary is paid, lie also says that an assistant not authorised by the Board, has been teaching in the school. Such complaints as our correspon dent makes should be addressed to the Board of Education. To ventilate all local school grievances, real or imaginary, would be beyond the compass of our space, and neither interesting nor edifying to our readers. Mr Harry Skcen who sustained injuries at the Shorthand Sawmill, is recovering. The Hon. F. Whitaker leaves for Wel lington about Saturday. Dr Wallis will address the electors of City West this evening, at half-past seveu o'clock, in the Mechanics' Institute.

An inquest was held yesterday before T)r Philson, coroner, and a jury, on the body of Hugh Williams, a lad who was drowned on Friday last, near the Mangere Bridge, by the upsetting? of a boat. Ser geant O'Connor appeared for the police to watch the case. The evidence shewed that

death Avas the result of accident, and a verdict was returned in accordance with the simple facts. The members of the Auckland Gymnastic Club will hold their annual meeting this evening in the Parnell Hall, at half-past seven o'clock, when the secretary, Mr.. Thomas Henderson, will present the report and balance-sheet.

The grand concert at the Choral Hall on Thursday evening next, in favour of the Mechanics' Institute funds, is likely to be a great success. We understand that the

tickets for the same are going off rapidly. The programme, which appears in our advertising columns, promises a carefully selected series of musical compositions and ballads.which will be givenby our leading local musicians and vocalists. Reserved tickets may be secured on, application} as per advertisement,

The Wellesley-street annual Baptist soiree will take place this evening, in the school-room, next the chapel. The pro gramme will include musical selections, and addresses by friends and ministers.

MILITARY GENIUS EXTRAORDI NARY.

(To the Editor of the Evening Star). Sir, —Can you tell me who is the original military .genius who is writing leading articles on the Turco-Russian Avar in the New Zealand Herald ? I should like to know, because he appears to have invented several totally novel systems of strategy, and it is a pity that such a genius as he evidently is, should bury his light under a bushel in .New Zealand. Were either the Russians or the Turks aware that this colony possessed such a strategist, they would offer millions for his services, and if either side secured them, the other would have to go to the wall. He would march in triumph to either Constantinople or St. Petersburg in a week. In the " Herald" of Monday, he laid clown with the decisive authority of a Yon Molkte the various plans of operation open to the Russian army. One of these was to proceed up the river Danube by means of steamers and towed troop-boats; to-day he shews how the Turkish naval forces on the same river will be able to seriously hamper the Russians at any point of the river which they might attempt to cross. I confess, Mr Editor, that the two. plans appear to me mutually destructive, if not nonsensical. If the Turkish Naval forces can resist a Russian army attempting to cross the Danube, it seems to me that an army afloat in tow boats would stand a very good chance of going to the bottom. However it is not for me to criticise the plans of a great military genius like your contemporary. Again the same military genius tells us that " Ordinary strategy would lead the Turks to garrison the river, at every good crossing place." Now,l had been under the imjH'ession that in most places the left or Northern bank of the Danube is low ground, while it is commanded by higher ground on the Southern bank, and in many places by hills on the North bank itself. In that case I can hardly see what advantage the Turks would secure by garrisoning both sides of a river. As a matter of fact almost all the Turkish posts are on the South bank of the Danube. The military genius of the " Herald " has evidently hit upon a now plan for the defence of crossing places, bridges and passes, namely to hold both ends. But, bless my soul !I am again criticising the opinions of a great military genius, which it is not for a peace-loving grocer to do.—l am, &c, Civis.

CABLEGRAMS.

(Press Agency),

THE W A B.

Tiiis Day.

The Turks Bombard Russian

Towns

Bombardment of Gralatz

Tnc Ports on Gorman Protection

EuTopsan Powers rejsqt Porto's Rsquest for Mediation.

LONDON, April 30th.

The Turks have commenced the bom bardment of Porti, a Russian fortress in the Black Sea, above Nikolai.

They are also bombarding Anaklia, another Rus.siau post, about thirty miles further North.

Galatz, the first point on the Danube, occupied by the Russian advance division, is also being bombarded by the Turks.

The Russian troops have occupied Ismail, a town on the north bank of the river Kilia, and commanding the junction of that river with the main river Danube.

The Porte refuses to recognise the German protection of Russian subjects.

The European powers have rejected the Porte's proposal for mediation.

Italy remains neutral,

RUSSIAN VICTORY CONTRADICTED.

RUSSIA DEMANDS EGYPT'S NEU-

TRALITY.

FRANCE DISSUADES THE KHEDIVE

FROM INTERFERING.

DISTURBANCE OF STOCK

EXCHANGE,

LONDON, April 29th. The Russians, not the Turks, Avere routed at Batoum.

The Russiaus have not occupied Kalafat. It is denied that they have anywhere crossed the Danube.

It is stated that Russia threatens reprisals if the Khedive of Egypt helps Turkey. It is also stated that Frauce is dissuading the Khedive from interfering.

There has been a further fall in the stock market. Consols are down to 94 ; colonial bonds are generally 1 per cent lower.

POLITICAL MEETING TO-NIGHT.

In accordance with previous announcement, Dr Wallis will close his series of addresses to City West electors at the Mechanics' Institute to-night, the chair being taken at 7.30 o'clock. The polling will be held at the Young Men's Christian Association Rooms to-morrow.

THEATRE ROYAL.

Tins place of public amusement was largely attended last evening by a respectable audience, and the Georgia Minstrels acquitted themselves with credit. The first part, as usual, was the grand parlour section, and comprised a number of new songs, mostly comic, including "Daisy Darling,'' " Oh, Miss Susie," " Troubled in de Mind," "Mother fold me in your arms," and others of Southern type. The second part commenced with the " Cai'nival of Fun," which was certainly very funny. One of the best productions of the evening was " Let Me Be," an origiual sketch, which was skilfully treated by Messrs Keenan and Mills. Mr Jackson's guitar solo was pleasing, and Billy Wilson's champion jig clever. The acrobatic song and dance artists were gi-eatly admired in their performance of the •* Rivals." The whole con cluded with " Diff, Ditt"," a musical farce by six performers. The programme will be repeated this evening. «

ANNIVERSARY SOIREE OF THE BERESFORD-STREET CONGREGA TIONAL CHURCH.

The members of this Church celebi-ated their twenty-fifth, anniversary last evening by a tea and public meeting. The proceedings opened with " Come lot us join our cheerful songs, with angels round the throne." The Key A. Mac donald then read a portion of the (57th Psalm, and Rev Thos. Hamer engaged in prayer. Rev J.Robertson, minister of the Church, presided, At the commencement of the mpeting. Rev Mr Hamer addressed Rev Mr Robertson in con gratulatory terms, and in the name of the congregation gave him the hand of fellowship. Rev Mr Robertson replied at some length, and having thanked the meeting for their hearty reception of him, said he had not charged his mind aboutthe propriety of coming to Auck land, but he could never forget the Kindness of the people to whom ho had ministered in Haw thorne. He felt in these disruptions of the social ties that the shock was often greater than they bargained for. If he bad seen ft his duty to remain in Hawthorne, no one should be happier than Ww, bu£ &© f.@ft it to be &

distinct call from the Almighty to come and labour in this portion of his vineyard. Mr Matthews, the much respected secretary, then read the annual report, which recognised with gratitude the services rendered by the late pastor of the church, Rev. Warlow Davies, and for the call of Rev. J. Robertson. The report reviewed in turn the progress of the church and the sabbath school, also their financial condition in terms of satisfaction. Captain Daldy, the treasurer, produced this year's balance sheet, which shewed that the offertories averaged £11 17a Id for the last year. The total debit at pre sent was about £600. The meeting was subse quently addressed by Rev. R. F. Macnicol, J. C. Firth, Esq., Rev. Thos. Buddie, Rev. W. Tinsley, Rev. Allan Webb, and Rev. D. Bruce. During the proceedings the choir, in a very efficient manner sani? " Gloria," from the Twelfth Mass, " God be merciful unto us," and other anthems and hymns, the whole closing with the benedic tion, pronounced by the pastor of the church.

NEW CALEDONIA.

(By the Mazeppa)

April 21st. The harbour works being carried out at Noumea by convict labour are rapidly pro gressing. Large tracts of land are being re claimed from the sea.

Three or four French Corvetts are lying in harbour.

The s.s. Wentworth from Sydney arrived on the 12th.

A barque is loading nickel ore for France. Great quantities of the ore are coming in from the coast. Smelting works arc being built in Noumea, and the ore is being stowed till the works are ready.

Trade is pretty steady in Noumea. There is a good market for provisions. The schooner Josephine left Noumea for Auckland eight days before the Mazeppa. She lias probably called at Norfolk Island. The schooner Effie Meikle had not arrived at Noumea when the Mazeppa left. The schooner Minnehaha arrived at Nou mea six days after leaving Auckland. The authorities Avould not allow her to land her cattle in Noumea, and she had to go to Port St. Vincent to discharge. She was to sail from Noumea on the 25th, so that she may be expected in a few days. It is not certain that she will come straight to Auckland, but will probably make Kaipara. The s.s. Southern Cross left for Sydney some days ago for the purpose of having new boilers put in her. Mr McLeod has purchased a schooner in Sydney. ' The cutter Cornstalk was sold by Mr. Manning (Messrs Ward and Co.'s agent), to a company of turtle fishers. Tlie schoouer Saxon lias gone to the New Hebrides to load. Nothing has yet been heard of her. It is not unlikely she will return to Noumea with her cargo.

Body of Mrs Scott to be Exhumed.

The Coroner has issued an order for the ex humation of the body of Mrs Scott, Avho died on Friday last, and Avas buried on Saturday. An inquest will be held on the body to-morroAV (Wednesday), at the Hiber nian Hotel, at tAvo o'clock, before Dr. Philson (coroner), and a jury, for the pur pose of iuA'cstigating the circumstances of her death.

The Onehunga Poisoning Case.

Further Particulars.

[FROM OUR SPECIAL REPORTER.]

The unfortunate person, an account of ■svho.sc allegod mysterious death at the time of confinement avc published yesterday, lias been in the colony only some twelve months, and has been married about that period. Her husband is employed on the Taramki, and is now absent. She has no relatives here. She was short in stature, and stoutly built, of fair complexion; she was esteemed for her many womanly qualities. She was taken ill on Wednesday morning, at 4 a.m. A mid-wife was en gaged to attend her—not Dr Ross as

erroneously stated in the " Herald." The nurse felt things were not going right, and sent tAvicc for Dr. Zinzan, and also sent by a market gardener going to toAA m for Dr.

Purchas ; as neither came by S o'clock, Mr Wayland kindly went for Dr Ross. (Mrs Scott is a tenant of Mr Wayland). Dr Ross immediatly attended, found the woman not only in labour, but also suffering fism. intense burning pains, and vomiting severely. Dr Zinzan afterwards arrived, and some medicine was given to allay the irritation m the stomach. They then left her, intending to return, Avhen they thought it due time. On their return they found Dr Purchas in charge of the sufferer, ami in his skilful hands the case was left. About 11 o'clock, a child was brought forth still born. Mrs Scott lingered until 3 o'clock on Friday morning. A post mortem examination is said to have been made during the day, the result of which is alleged to have shewn that rupture caused death. The burial took place.at about 5 o'clock, but was not attended by many, as the public did not know of its faking place. Dr Purchas performed the last ceremonies over the grave. MRS WELLS' STATEMENT. I was engaged to attend to the deceased as midwife. If a doctor was required, I was to call for one. I was sent for between 11 and 12 o'clock on Tuesday night; know ing that she was delicate, and complaining for some time-past of an unnatural pain in the inside, T. was more than usually anxious. About 4 o'olock a.m., Wednesday, when labour pains began, I sent for Dr. Zinzan ; he said he could not attend until he had ; had two hours rest, and if any danger was seen, to send for Dr. Ross. " I did not do it, not knowing anything of Dr. Ross. I sent by Mr Webb for Dr Purchas between five and six o'clock in the morning, but the message was not delivered. Mrs Wayland telegraphed at eleven o'clock for Dr"Pur chas. In the meantime Dr Rossl arrived. He administered chloroform to her, which lie gave twice. At that time I expected the child would be born in a few minutes. After taking chloroform the pains left, and he gave her the forcing medicine. I insisted on Dr Zinzan coaling clown, and these two doctors talked together over Mrs Scott's state, and Dr Zin zan ordered medicine, which he gave to hex about 12 o'clock on Wednesday. They then left for about two hours, leaving word I was to give the medicine every two hours, but 1 did not give it, as Dr Purchas came between one and two o'clock, having received Mrs Wayland's telegram. The child was born at 12 o'clock at night. He stayed then until 6 o clock the next morning. Dr Ross came up during the morning and asked me for a table spoon. I told him all was locked up With that he took a bottle from his pocket, and put it to her lips, putting m same froth. Dr Purchas made a post motem examination at about four o'clock on Friday. There was no other dortor present, but he had sent for Dr. Zinzan, who did not come. He did not open the stomach, as he ceclared that the cause of death, was rupture of uritha, fiom which had resulted such severe pains and ™e T >flT^ h on the month. I sent to Mr Robb to make the coffin and bury her. A difficulty was at first experienced to find people to carry the coffin to the churchyard but Sergeant O'Connor hearing of the dilemma kindly went round to the neigh bours and succeeded in obtaining ample assistance. I made them take up the baby and lay it in the coffin, and I followed to the grave; Pr. Purolias read the burial service. Mrs Wells gave her statement in a straight forward manner, though very excited over the sad event. No fear is apprehended of any foul play. If it proves to be tt case of poisoning, it is supposed to be accidental. lUld,e.r the. supervision of Detective Jcfifc^

Testimonial to Inspector Broham.

Mr Inspector Thomson succeeded to fh command of the Auckland P oU ce f * *J? day, in the place of Mr Broham x,iT ceeds to Canterbury. a beautiful Jujf nated address is being prepared byjj; Morrow which will be presented To £ Broham by the members of the Auckland Sfrßmff 7'expressive of thek esteeS

POLICE COURT,-This Day.

(Before K. C. Barstow, Esq. 3 M ) TODDLES. '

Thomas Stokes, alias Toddles, was fined 5s and costs for drunkenness.

VAGRANTS. Eardley Cullen Blakeley, was chared under the Vagrant Act with disorderly c °on duct, and with having no visible lawful means of employment.

Prisoner pleaded guilty. Sub-Inspector Pardy said the prisoner since coming out of gaol had been han<nn* about, and had not done any work • he°waa found sleeping in a timber yard in Custom House-street.

His Worship said there did not appear to be any charge of crime against the man and he did not wish to send him to brealc stones, if he could get other employment Sub-Inspector Pardy said that such men must live somehow, the doubt whether or not men could live by the air had Ion" Deen removed, there were a great many°petty thefts committed, which the police could not always detect ; still, if the man-would work, lie would not be hard upon him. The man was discharged on promising to get work, and was promised further, that if brought up again, he would be sent to gaol for at least twelve months. Thomas Speckitt was charged with the same offence, lie was also found in the timber yard with the last prisoner. Prisoner made a similar statement, and was discharged on the same conditions. AGED MARGARET. Margaret McEwen, a little old woman well-known to the police, was brought up' charged with stealing a dress piece^ value 7s 2d, the property of Susan McLay, on the 27 th ult., a glass tumbler, value Is 6d, the property of William Pearce, of the Royal Mail Hotel, on the same day, and with stealing John Gould's Crimean shirt, value two shillings. Prisoner pleaded not guilty. James Kay, pawnbroker, of Derby-street deposed that on the 27th of April, the prisoner came into his shop on some triflin" errand, and when about to leave, he misseS one of three parcels, belonging to Mrs Mc- Lay, lie immediately stopped prisoner, -who denied the charge, he found the parcel under her shawl; she came in to sell & tumbler.

Susan McLay, Avife of James McLay, of Victoria-street, deposed that she left three parcels on Mr Kay's counter. Prisoner went in immediately after. She Avas in formed that prisoner had taken one. Prisoner : I picked it up on the floor, but did not steal it. The charge of stealing the tumbler from the Royal Mail Avas then read over it. Prisoner : Well, I might as well plead guilty, I stole it. The third charge was then proceeded with, and to Avhich prisoner pleaded not guilty. John Gould, Avho Avas in a nervous state, said prisoner Avas his washerwoman, he had known her for 37 years. She did not steal it, he gaA'e it to her to wash along with his AThite breeches, she paAvned the shirt, and returned his breeches. Mr Ray deposed to purchasing the skirt of prisoner for 6'd. Sub-Inspector Pardy said the prisoner had been five times convicted of larceny, aud had suffered several months in gaoL • She did not steal the things for food, as she drank the money aAvay. His Worship regretted to see. an old woman in such a position ; the amount of property Avas not great, but her propensity for thieving appeared to be habitual. Four months' imprisonment. ABE'S HORSE. Abraham Bowden, express proprietor, Avas charged under by-laav No. 1, sec. 43 Avith allowing his horse to wander unat tended in Symonds-street, on the 22nd ult. Defendant pleaded guilty, and Avas fined ss, costs 5s 6d. ALLEGED BREACH OF BY-LAW. James Dempsey, of the Shamrock Hotel, Wellesley-street, Avas charged under by-law 6, section 15, Avith blasting a rock in Hob son-street, without the permission, of the City Council. Remanded until Friday, at tAva o'clock. NO light. George Harrison, carrier, of Parnell, was charged with a breach of by-law No. 1, section 71, Avith not having a light burning by the side of his cart, ontha evening of the 19th April. * Mr Harrison said he would plead guilty* but it AA^as through an accident. The socket of his lamp fell out, and he could not remedy it at the time. He thought, more over, that he Avas outside the city bound aries. Fined 2s 6d, costs 5s 6d.

OHINEMURI.

(From Our Own Correspondent).

"Waitekauri, Thursday.

Waitekauri Company.—ln the 160 ft. level the reef averages about 17 op 18ft in width, with gold to be S"en in the stone, and tho whole of good crushing quality. The drive going north has now reached about 100 ft from the No. 1 winze, carrying a large body of stone 20ft through, in which I found some of the best gold iv the mine. The manager expects shortly to be under the No. 1 shot of gold, when sreat things are expected. In the low level drive the reef is 17 or 18ft wide, plentifully interspersed with blue veins carrying the best of the gold. The whole reef is sent to tho battery, and the entire lot averages over an oz. to the ton. The weather is looTiin* veiT- vainy at present,, and it is wantod, as the battery has no more: water than enough to keep it going. We arei expecting every day to see Messrs T. RwsseU;. Whitaker, and Brown, as according to.actoees; they should have been up yesterday. X' ftfcey do> turn up, they could'nt come in a hatter time to see the mine and battery in full swing, as the battery isfmaking a splendid show on the stun,, and in the mine gold is shewing freely wherever the reef is being worked. Welcome.—Driving south on the No. 4 lode> has proved it to be a compact body of ston« ol'er a foot through, with, so far, three distinct shots of gold through it. When the tramway » completed and the stuff can bo crushed, the? Welcome will astonish some of the outsiders,, as their quartz is far more than merely payable-

CHORAL FESTIVAL.

(From our own Correspondent. \

One of the most pleasant social gatherings' it has been my lot to chronicle took place yesterday at Onehunga, the Rev. A. Tom linson having invited the choirs of the various churches iv town to assist the members of his own choir at the Festival Service to be held at St. Peter's last even ing. A large number availed themselves of the pleasure, and were conveyed to the parsonage by means ofspocial 'busses; upon arriving, they were warmly welcomed by the reverend gentleman and his lady. Croquet and other games were indulged in.» until the deepening twilight necessitated retiring to the house. Ampla justice having: been done to "The cup which cheers, 1' an adjournment to the drawing room took place, when several ladies kindly favoured* the company with music and songs, accom panied by J. Brown, Esq.. At half-past; seven service commenced in ifee church. The music was the same as that sung at the late Choral Festival; Mr Brown coik ducted, Mr Rico, accompanied on tlief harmonium, Rev.. A. G. Purchas intoned tho service, Rev. Tomlinson read tfi| tapottst mi the itav, tawd, prcacu^

THE EVENING STAR, TUESDAY, MAY 1, 1877.



"O LAN KET%^ I Tf> L ANKETS !! BLANKETS!!! BLANKETS!!! In addition to Large Parcels of NEW GOODS for the incoming Season already announced, the undersigned have pleasure in informing their customers and the public that the bulk of their NEW SEASON'S Stock of BLANKETS are now to hand. In order to maintain the well known character of our house for goods of this description, Great Care has been exercised in Selection and Purchase, due regard being had to Quality and Price, and full advantage has been taken of an overstocked market and falling prices. Inspection will prove that we oo nmence the season's trade with a Stock of Blankets, which for Price and Quality are second to none. BLANKETS (all sizes), White, Blue, and Grey. £9 x 4 Blankets, from 10/6 per pair, in -V- 17/8 (bought a job, 10 x " " 17/b " splendid value. jq ] " r equally cheap. FLANNELS, all makes and qualities. New Winceys, exceptionally cheap—a good line at s|d. French Merinoes., All wool Plaids, Satin Cloths, and New Fancy Dress Materials, in great variety. A nice assortment of New Black Silks, very good value. WINTER HOSIERY, of every description. Children's and Ladies' Waterproof Mantles, Waterproof Tweeds, &c, NEW LINEN GOODS-Cuffs, CoUars, and Sets, new shapes and styles. Strong Grey and Drab CORSETS, at very low prices. New Ribbons, Flowers, Hats, Fancy Buttons, &c,, &c. CLOTHING, OF ALL DESCRIPTIONS, for Boys and Men, good and cheap. 1^ One Shilling in the £ returned on all Cash Purchases of 20s. and upwards. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGM \N, JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel) Upper Qttken-strkbt ATtateiand. Q P E C I A L NOT ICE. AUTUMN & WINTER GOODS, B4NNOCKBURN AND MOSGIEL TWEEDS H. L. POSSENNISKIE Opening Out these New Seasonable Goods, would call particular attention to their quality, which is second to none imnorted, while from his large anfl raripd Stock Gentlemen can rely on a choice of Cloth unattainable else where in the colony, H. L. POSSENNISKIE, "MERCHANT TAILOR & HABITMAKER, Opposite the City Mart, gfeortiaaa^reet.



"DAKURANGA HUNT CLUB. W. RATTRAY Begs to inform Members of the Club that he has received the GREEN CLOTH for Making their HUNTING COATS, and is prepared to execute orders with promptitude. W. RATTRAY, CLOTHIER & MERCHANT TAILOR, 66, QUEEN-STREET. Auckland ■^TOTICE OF REMOVAL. HA TKINS BEGS TO ANNOUNCE THAT HE &THAS REMOVED!!"®* TO THE Premises Next Door Below his Old Shop. H. ATKINS Begs to heartily thank his numerous Cus tomers for their very liberal patronage from his first commencing business up to ihe present time, and to assure them that although his trade has increased to that extent, that his REMOVAL to more Commodious Premises was a neces sity, the same principles of business will still be adhered to: viz., keeping a good article, buying in the cheapest market, and selling at the smallest profit possible. His New Shop shall always be known as The Cheapest in Auckland. H.A. will be happy to see all his old Customers, and as many new ones as may honour him with their patronage. A SPLENDID STOCK OF DRAPERY AND CLOTHING Will always be found, and the PRICES THE LOWEST IN AUCKLAND 1 TT. A T X T N S. i//^/i//y/i//i "WILL ALL FIND GOODS TO SUIT THEM AT THE CITY XT ALL A RCADE. _o_ j\. HOLLOWAY & GARLICK'S DRESS DEPARTMENT is replete with the Newest Seasonable Goods. Damasse Cloths, ) As worn in Pans. Matelass6 do. \ ._ ~ ,„ , Satin Trails, j New Designs and Colours. Plain and Fancy Satin Cloths, Broche Lustrines, and Fancy Diagonals, French Merinoes, and Homespun Tweeds. WINCEYS, immense variety, for town and country wear. OUR SHOW ROOMS (lGfi feet long) contain the greatest variety of DRAPERY, CLOTHING, & FURNISHING GOODS IN AUCKLAND. Blankets, from 10s. to 15s. per pair Flannels, white, coloured and fancy Ladies' Winter Skirts in great variety Shirtings, all Wool, Crimean, and Union. MEN'S & BOYS' CLOTHING. Our Stock is constantly being Renewed with Clothes especially made for Country as well as Town Wear. Our Moleskin and Working Men's Trousex-s are VERY LOW PRICED. Ladies, Purchase your Millinery at the Arcade. Large Stock Ready Trimmed Hats & Bonnets Milliners on the Premises, to execute orders with dispatch. THE ONLY ESTABLISHMENT onducted on the English system of combining Drapery. Clothing, Millinery. Underclothing, Carpets, and House Furnishing. QUEEN-STREET & LORNE-STREET. HOLLOWAY & GARLICK, J3URNIIURE! FVBNITUB E I Ladies and Qentemen about to Famish are resent fully requested to inspect the Large Stack of DR A WIN a -ROOM.. DINING -ROOM BEDROOM, AND GENERAL HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, In our New and, Spacions Showrooms. T. & IL. COOKE, 67, QUEEN-STREET 'Atlioinino Bank of N~tw Zt.nln.nti. Look for the signature and address of the pro prietor upon labels of bottles purporting to con tain Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps, and observe whether the same are deficiently executed or not. If anything be lacking1, you may know them for shams and reject them. Swindlers are putting up bad liquors in bottles which previously held the most salutary medicinal beverage in existence. Baffle the rogues. Manning's Hair Restorer, prepared only by Sharland and Co., The best of all Hair Restorers, and a triumph in modern chemistry. Its use preserves the Colour, promotes Growth, removes Dandruff, and gives a glossy and silky texture to the Hair. It is fragrant and perfectly harmless. Price, 2s. 6d. and 4s. Gd. a bottle.— $3L Sharland and Co., opposite Post-office, Auckland. Atkinson's Pjbrfumery and Specialities.