SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

mrj-TT wattt-r t~ This Afternoon, 5.36 HIGH WAIJiK—< ( To _ morrow Morning, 5.53 SUN SET.—Thi3 Evening, 5.i0 SUN RISK—To-niorrow Morning, 6.30 MOON'SAGE.—New Moon, 14th, 5.29 a.m

ARRIVALS.

DEPARTURES. Rotorua, s.s., Macfarlane. for Sydney. Wellington, s.s., Lloyd, for the South. Pretty Jane s.a., for Tauranga and Gisborne.

IMPORTS.

Per Electra from London: 62 cases, 400 kegs, 2 bales, 831 packages.—Owen and Graham. 330 packages.—Barnett and Levy. 4 cases.—E. Porter and Co.

2 bales.—H. Brett. 114 bundles.—Henderson and Macfarlano. Per Rotorua: 2 cases machinery.—H. Brett. Per Cabarfeidh from Adelaide: 1380 bags bark. —Ireland Bros.

Per ship Emily Chaplin, from London: 11 cases hardware, 9 cases saddles, 10 casks black oil and harness composition. 2 cases whip 3, 1 cask, 1 tierce saddlers' ironmongery, 5 pkgs bridles, 2 casks blacking, 5 casks heel tips, 10 casks nails.—lreland Bros.

Per barque Electra, from London: 10 cases hardware, 15 cases saddlery, 5 cases saddlers' ironmongery, 9 casks grindery, 3 pkgs sundries. —Ireland Bros.

EXPORTS.

Per Wellington: 31 bags fungus, 1 bale.—E. and H. Isaacs.

THE ACCIDENT TO THE AUGUSTA'S BOAT.

To the Editor, Sir, —In your issue of the 7th instant, I notice in the shipping news, a para graph, wherein Captain Farquhar, of the s.s. lon a informed you that a boat belonging to the brigantine Augusta had been swamped at Pavengarcnga, and that the mate lost S.l. This is an error, as the boat sent ashore for water returned safe to the ship. The same statement, only more amplified, I see in the New Zealand "Herald." The true fact is, a boat containing Captain Pullman, one passenger, and two sea men, was capsized in Tom Bowling's Bay, going through the surf, the captain losing his trousers, with three or four notes in them.—Thomas Hutciiixsojj, Chief Mate, brigantine Augusta.

The s.s. Pretty Jane left yesterday for Tau ranga and Gisborne. This is her first trip to the first-named port. The Go-ahead is to sail on Friday for Awanui, Gisborne, and Napier. A half share in the schooner Charybdia and the ketch Samson will be offered at auction on Friday next. The brigantine Kate Brain is loading at Dune din for this port. The s.s. Rotorua left for Sydney shortly after 4 o'clock yesterday afternoon. Passengers :— From Dunedin—Mrs Darrell, Mr Hatton, Dr Llewellyn, Dr Deck. From Lyttelton—Miss Mitchell. From Wellington—Messrs Thomson, Manwoli, Gore, Hawkins (2), Miss McCartie. From Napier—Mr Cardon. Steerage, 28.—Hen derson and Macfarlane, agents.

The s.s. Wellington sailed for the South at 8 a.m. to-day. Passengers: Mr and Mrs Barnett, Miss Mills, Messrs Sherrard, Wilson, Thompson, Barris, Hall, Caverhill, Edgar, Phillips, Simpson, Adams, Barber, Webster, Preston, and steer age. The barque Cabarfeidh has been bert fled at the outer eastern tee. She commenced putting out this morning. The s.s. Zealandia, which is to convey the out ward mail, via San Francisco, is due here to morrow morning. The schooner Onward, from Auckland, bound for Lyttelton, put into Worser Bay, for shelter, on April 2nd.

A ship has beea signalled all day, but has not made the heads up to the time of our going to press. She is now doubt the Electra, now about US clays out from London. She comes to Messrs Cruickshank and Co., and brings a full general cargo. The s.s. Wanaka, which left here last Wed nesday for the South, only arrived at Welling ton last night. She was four days going from Napier to Wellington, and it is probable she put in for shelter under the Kidnappers, or some other sheltered nook.

CALLS AND DIVIDENDS.

The following are the current calls and dividends payable in the companies named below :— £ s. d. Date. Calls— Annie 0 0 6 — April 11 Bank of England.. 0 0 3 — April 11 New Morning Star 0 1 0 — April 16 Dividends— Moanatairi.. .. 210 0 — April 12 Alburnia .. .. 2 6 — April 12

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under :— For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m., and to-

morrow, at 11 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, perKina, this day, at 4.30 p.m.

and per Kina to-morrow, at 4.30 p.m. For Wangaroa, per Fanny Kelly, this day, at

4.30 p.m. For Tonga and Ena, per Thistle, to-morrow, at

4.30 p.m. For Melbourne, per Loch Lee, to-morrow, at 9 a.m. For Noumea, per Effie Meikle, to-morrow, at 9 a.m. Foa; Russell, per Golden Isle, to-morrow at

11 a m. For Warkworth, Waiwera, and Te Arai, per

Annie Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. Per s.s. Zealandia, on Wednesday, ;llth inst., as follows:—

For Kandavu, Sandwich Islands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom land Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. For money orders and registered letters, and newspapers, at 11.30 a.m. !• Late letters bearing an extra fee of Gd in addition to the postage, will be received by the Mail Agent on board up to time of sailing. For Gisborhe and Napier, per Pretty Jane, on

Friday next, at 3 p.m. For Whitianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per

Eowena. on Friday next, at 4 p.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Hawea, on Monday next, at 8 a.m. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

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

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11, 1877.

tot the ca»se that lacks assistance For the wrong that needs resistance, for the future in the distance, And the good that we can do.

Telegrams from Napier last night in cluded one item of information Ay or thy of more than passing notice. Practical men, it is stated, consider that the harbour works now proceeding for the improvement of the Iron Pot will do greater harm than good, and the £75,000 borrowed is being thrown into the sea. We have had some local experience of the capacity of public bodies tor making ducks and drakes with public monies, but if the statement just quoted at all nearly approaches the truth, we must hand the palm of administrative genius over to the wiseacres who have un dertaken the work of removing Port Ahuriri bar and endowing Napier with the shipping facilities which Nature denied. The rapid extension of the railway towards Welling ton, stirred owners of town property and the land sharks who have laid unholy hands on the fair domain opened by Ahuriri harbour, into alarmed activity, lest they should awake to find Hawke's Bay a distant country district of Wellington, and the whole traffic of the ex-province swept by wings of steam away past the diminishing town of Napier to load shipping lying in Port Nicholson. The announcement of an easily floated loan in the London market a short time ago, sent Woolville into ecstatic raptures, but now, apparently, has come a time of bitter reflection. The interest on the loan is a reality though the good results anticipated from the outlay should prove a mid phantasy. We may still hope, however, that the matured reality will prove a little less disappointing than the telegraphist's gloomy vaticination. Another scheme which is floated into notice with infinitely less encouraging surroundings than the Napier undertaking has put forward new claims upon any monies that may be lying about loose and unappropriated, either within or without the public chest. From Taranaki papers we gather that the colony has not heard the last of the gigantic work of building an artificial harbour for New Plymouth. When the House of Representatives, last session, unceremoniously squelched the Central Prison, negotiated for during the preceding recess by the Hon. Mr Bowen, it dealt a cruel blow to the faithful Carrington and the bounc able Atkinson. But Taranaki was not disposed to forego so readily the Government pa tronage promised for its big bill, and the Colonial Treasurer has again been appealed to, with charming success. The " Patea Mail" Hays :—

"In accordance with a promise lately made by Major Atkinson to the New Plymouth Harbour Board, a staff of engineers, under the direction of Mr Jones, have been sent there to survey and work out the details, and prepare plans for the proposed harbour at the [Sugar Loaves. A number of workman have also been taken on in various capacities. It is calculated that the preliminary work will occupy about four months. When plans are prepared and approved no time will be lost in entering into contracts. Steps have already been taken to ascertain if the Bank of Now Zealand will undertake to float a loan, and advance money to commence operations with. The expense of surveying will of course be borne by the Harbour Board."

The assurance that "of course" the Harbour Board of New Plymouth will pay all expenses of the survey undertaken by Government engineers, is very satisfactory, although it would have been still more so were the funds of that powerful Corporation less prospective and dependant on the good will of banking institutions. ■ That the Banks of Noav Zealand will advance the I money if any realisable security can be shewn, we do not doubt, but we undertake to say that something more tangible than the harbour of the future must be forthcoming before the New Plymouth Board fingers one stiver of cash from that or any other monetary institution. What the Harbour Board can oiler we are not in a position to say, but securities approaching the value of the whole town and surrounding country will have been pledged before the Hawea takes her anchorage inside the new works. We do not for a moment deny the impor tance of a harbour for New Plymouth, although every year, with the extension of railways, the necessity will become less urgent. Nature is clearly to blame for not providing one. But when it is assumed that Taranaki, or the colony, is in a position to complete a Holyhead breakwater, or provide for New Plymouth what the half-million starving Hindoos are now engaged in beginning for Madras, we _ must take leave of the enthusisiastic rustics Avho are bent upon throw ing down two hundred thouasnd pounds or so as sport for the long Pacific rollers. An equal expenditure in extend ing the Waikato railway towards Taranaki, or connecting the Wellington lines would open the country, and bring the inhabit ants of New Plymouth much nearer the desired goal than any possible useful expenditure on permanent harbour works foi that roads ted.

OUE cable despatches announce the death of General Changarnier, a French Com mander of high reputation, whose name was last before the public as an actor in the Franco-Prussian Avar. _ Nicholas Aime Theodule Changarnier, was born at Autun in 1793, so that at the time of his death he had attained the ripe age of 84 years. He re ceived his education at the Military School of St. Cyr. In 1830 he commenced his military career as a lieutenant in Algeria, where iic speedily distinguished himself by his daring and skill, and rose to the rank of General of division. After the procla mation of the Republic in 1848, he suc ceeded Cavaignac as Governor-General of Algeria, but, being chosen a member of the National Assembly lie returned to Paris, where he was appointed Commander-in-chief of the garrison and the National Guard. During the terrible scenes of 1848^ he took a prominent part in the suppression of the insurrection which led to General Cavaig nac's dictatorship. When Louis Napoleon became President Changarnier was ap pointed commander of the First Military Divi sion, and, as an insurrection was expected, the command of the armed force of Paris, civic as well as military, was placed in his hands. By the excellence of his arrangements he crushed the insurrection without blood shed. The danger over, however, he shared the common lot of public benefactors. His high position and personal influence exciting the jealousy of the President and his Ministry, the command' was abolished, and Changarnier fell back into the position of a representative of the people. In the Legislative Assembly he held a position between the Lflfiafcim,i»ta and

the Bonapartists. At the coup d'etat in 1851, he was one of the generals arrested by order of Napoleon 111, and sent to the fortress of Ham, and he continued to live for several years in exile, in Belgium, refusing to take the oath of allegiance to the Emperor, and being regarded as one of the leaders of the Legitimists. He refused to avail himself of the permission offered by the French Government to return to his native country. In 1859, General Changarnier was promoted a grand officer of the Legion of Honour. It was not until the exciting period of the Franco-Prussian war, that Changarnier emerged from exile. After the severe defeats sustained by the French at Forbach and Woerth, he offered his services to the Emperor, who received him cordially, and he became a member of the Military Council, which met to decide upon the future operations. The French people looked forward to great results from the genius of Changarnier, but it soon become evident that not only had he lost much of that energy of character which marked his earlier career, but that the greatest genius and bravery were powerless to oppose the irresistible advance of the Gorman armies. Upon the Emperor's resignation of the chief command, under pressure of popular opinion, Changarnier's genial iniluence was largely instrumental in smoothing the jealousies of rival Marshals aspiring to the vacant office, and his action secured the elevation of Bazaine over Marshal Canrobert, whose Crimean exploits were not, in that serious emergoncy, deemed such as to warrant his appointment to the position which should have been allotted to him by right of seniority. Changarnier was shut up in Metz with Bazaine's armies, and took a command in the various sorties made with the object of escaping from that fatal fortress. One of the earlier projects of Changarnier was that he could successfully invade Eng land and destroy London, but, fortunately for France, he never had an opportunity of trying the experiment.

With reference to the neglect of returns of ratepayers from Highway Boards, re quired by the registration of Electors Act, 1875, it appears doubtful whether the Regis tration Officer could use the lists, even if sent in now. The Act expressly fixes the 7th of April as the date on which all returns must be sent in, and as the time has passed, and the Act makes no provision for extend ing it, the penalties have, it may be assumed, already been incurred.

" A Well-wisher of the Order" writes suggesting that Court Zealandia, A.0.F., intended celebration soiree and ball should be held on the night of the 23rd, instead of the 24th of May. He says people who generally support affairs of this kind would have a better chance of attending, and the next day being a holiday, those who attend would have time-to rest before work com mences again. People, after a day's holiday are generally tired, and in no humour to begin a night's dancing."

Mr Edward Lewis delivered a lecture last evening in Cook-street Christian Meeting House, on the subject of the " Church of Christ and its Government of Divine Ap pointment." There was a good attendance, and some favourable discussion elicited. Mr Lewis will lecture this evening, in Newton Hall, on " The Christian, a Victor."

The Templars of the Pioneer Lodge will hold a public meeting and entertainment to-morrow evening in the Temperance Hall, when Hongs, recitations, and speeches will be given by members. The friends of the order and others are invited.

The half-yearly meeting of Court City of Auckland, No. 39.78, A.0.F., was held in their Court-room, Cook-street, on Monday, 2nd April. The report shewed that the Court Imd made fair progress during the past half-year, having initiated about 40 new members, and increased its funds some £250, making a total amount in bank to the credit of the trustees of .-£1,820 14s 5d., and the total number of members 270. After the usual business had been transacted the election of oilicers for the ensuing six months was proceeded with, and resulted as follows : —C.R., Bro. J. Lawson ; S.C.R., Bro. W. Priestley; treasurer, Bro. E. Auger (re-elected) ; secretary, Bro. Thoa. Holland (re-elected) ; S.W., Bro. Double ; J.W., Bro. Barringer ; 5.8., Bro. Sheppard ; J. 8., Bio. Latchmore ; assistant-secretary, Bro. J. Taylor; surgeon, Bro. F. W. E. Dawson (re-elected).

Referring to a sulnhur factory in Auck land, a writer in the Otago "Witness" says :—" Sulphur or White Island contains about COO acres, abounding in sulphur in every stage of purity and development. It is the property of Mr J. A. Wilson and Mr F. H Troup. These gentlemen are now en gaged in perfecting arrangements for the export of the sulphur to Australia, to India, and to China,aswell as for the supply of the home market. The demand in New Zea land alone is 150 tons per annum, worth about £22 per ton, or £3,300 in all. The Australian Colonies consume over £20,000 worth per annum, while the consumption in China and India is immense. Yon Avill see, therefore, that the export, when fairly started, may reach considerable proportions. To refine the ore, a factory is about to be established at Woodside, Stokes Point, just opposite to Auckland.

Referring to Ormond's visit to Canter bury, the "Lyttelton Tiincs" says :—"The travels of Ministers are like the peregrina tions of itinerant tinkers. Their principal object wherever they go, is to patch up some defect in the numerous and impor tant specimens of hasty and ill-consi dered legislation, constituting the new system of government "which is now in full force in this experimental but unfortunate country. Skilful tinkers who know their business, and do it, invari ably regulate the quality of their repairs in such a manner as to ensure them a repeti tion of their "job" at their next periodical visit. As their revenues must be perennial, they take good care that the necessity for repairs shall be unceasing. In like manner the Ministry seem to have arranged their work."

Herr Lindauer, whoso portraits were in so much favour in Auckland, is engaged on a portrait of Mrs Siddons.

The deplorable condition of Mexico at the present time furnishes a lamentable ex ample of the evils of bad government. The whole country is torn by anarchy, chaos reigns supreme throughout the government, and the whole social system is rotten and tottering to its foundation. Business failures are numerous, as nobody thinks of paying his debts, or keeping his engagements in a country where life and property are never secure. Capitalists make enormous profits by lending money at usurious rates, to suc cessive revolutionists, the interest being wrested from the people by grinding taxa tion. Bands of robbers infest the country, and Protestant worship has been suppressed by force.

At the Supreme Court, Christchurch, Philip Cater Newington, was charged with having, on the voyage to New Zealand, defrauded a passenger, named Hopper of various sums of money, by representing himself to be Viscount or Lord Maidstone. The indictment was withdrawn in conse quence of a technical flaw, as it was not stated that the Crusader was a British ship. The Crown Prosecutor undertook to prepare a fresh indictment.

The " Waikato Times " says that Mr Palmer, the surveyor, of the Raglan and Waipa road, is endeavouring to find an out let so low down the river as the Coal Mines at Taupiri. The " Times" says the road will not suit the Waikato, and advocates Whata "Whata as the termiuug,

Henry Wright k gazetted, g, p.&ti&fi&tecl (Mutant U* IMwpfcft

Mr Charles Bright the free thought and spiritualistic lecturer, does not find that the lines have fallen to him in pleasant places in Dunedin. In a recent lecture he said : — " Since he had been in Dunedin,people had called at the house where he lived, Avho positively refused to see him or enter the room where he was—as though he had been a leper or a mnrderer— because he did not carry about an old-fashioned lantern."

The Lydia Howarde troupe, including Mddle Navarro, Miss Nye, and Miss Lizzie Morgan, assisted by a number of amateurs, gave a sacred concert in Wellington on Good Friday.

The daily circulation of the "London Daily Telegraph" from the Ist December last has been 200,317. Eighty tons weight of paper, it is said, were used in the pro duction of the Christmas number of the "Illustrated London News." Estimating the price of the paper at 4d per lb, the cost under that head would be something like £3000.

Mr W. F. Hammond, superintendent of the All Saint's Sunday school, will deliver an illustrated lecture this evening, in the district school-room, on the " Mfssing Tribes of Israel," a subject to which Mr Hammond has devoted considerable atten tion. Rev Mr Bree will take the chair, and the church choir will sing at intervals of the lecture. The admission will be free, but a collection will be made in aid of the school funds.

The Auckland Licensed Victuallers an nounce a meeting of the trade to-morrow evening, at the British Hotel, for the con sideration of serious questions relating to the welfare of hotel-keepers.

The "Argus" says that " Bannerman was taught his cricket in Sydney by Caffyn."

Mr Fitchett, a student at the Canterbury College, is the winner of the Bowcn prize essay this year; the subject was "The Wars of the Hoses."

The Dimedin correspondent of the " Lyttelton Time 3" compares Mr Reid with Mr Macandrew as official adminis trators. He says that the latter was always ready to receive deputations, but quite the contrary with Mr lieid. He is down to time in the morning, stays in the office but for a few minutes, and the rest of the day is in and out, his goings and comings being regulated, so it is said, with a special reference to avoiding deputations. It may be that Mr Reid knows he can only administer to them what is vulgarly termed Job's consolation, but from whatever cause, he certainly is not so accessible to deputa tions as Mr M'Lean was, nor is he plagued in the manner in which that gentleman was. llecently, an influential deputation, consisting of the Mayor, the Chairman of the Local Board of Health, and twenty leading citizens went as a deputation to Mr Reid on the subject of small-pox. The Secretary told them Mr Reid was engaged and could not be seen until 3 o'clock m the afternoon. The Mayor asked that another hour might be appointed. "Tell him," said his Worship, " that the deputation is an important one, and onr business is urgent." " But I've told him, and he Avon't see anyone," pleaded Mr Willis. " Surely," said the Mayor, "he will not refuse to .see 30 or 40 citizens on a subject, of emergency." "You have had his answer. What am I to do ?" urged the secretary, as he stood with his back to the handle of tlie doo-i. "Why," continued the Mayor, colouring up a little at the indignity, " I'll be bound to say his Excellency the Governor would not hesitate to receive such a deputation as this." It was suggested by some of those present that a written message should be sent to the closeted Minister, and the Mayor was proceeding to write one out when the frank, genial countenance of Mr Munro, the messenger, appeared a second door leading to the ministerial sanctum the sanctorum was thrown wide open, and they were ushered in to the august presence of the Minister of Lands.

It will be noticed by our advertising columns that tenders for the lease of that well-known hostelry, the Auckland Hotel, for a term of years, will be received until noon of Wednesday next, the 18th instant, by Mr. C. Williamson, Vulcan Lane.

A blind mesmerist, at Yass, N.S.W., named Sylvester Augustus Primrose, who read bumps and pretended to tell fortunes, is "doing" six months in gaol. His sight was so bad that he mistook another man's trousers for his own, and his memory so treacherous that he represented he had bought them.

Mr M. Kennedy, who lately purchased the p.s. Luna from the Government, pro poses to establish a large depot for Grey mouth coal at Wellington.

Mr Ilicharc J. Feltus has been appointed by the Colonial Government, clerk to the Judge of the Assessment Court for the County of Hobson, and has commenced hh duties at Kaukapakapa.

The Itosina, steamer, has had a narrow escape of being swamped and broken up on the Gisbome bar. She was frequently hidden by the breakers and spray, but escaped without damage, and the pluck and skill exhibited by Captain Kennedy have received high praise.

The attention of readers is directed to an announcement in our advertising columns of the times and places for the holding of Assessment Courts in the County of Hobson.

The total receipts of the Auckland and Mercer railway during the four weeks end ing March 10th, was from passenger traffic, £968 2s Sd; goods, £657 Is lOd; total, £1,625 4s 6d. From the Kaipara railway : passengers, £106 8s 3d ; goods, £114 14s 3d.

Aii interesting ceremony will take place at the Thames Hotel, at eight o'clock this evening, when the employes at the graving dock will present a gold ring and address to Captain Percival.

The Queen's wharf at Wellington is to be widened and extended, at a cost of £20,000, and tenders are invited.

They use strong language in the Legis lative Council of New South Wales. Mr Docker, on a motion for Supply, said they had been told by one of the prominent members of the Opposition that if they (the present Ministers) were to be succeeded by six of the blackest devils in hell, they should be turned out and sunk down to the places vacated by those who succeeded them. Mr Buchanan, in the Legislative Assembly, speaking of the conduct of the late Premier, in asking for Supply, said ''It reminded him of that of a man who was going to be hanged. Instead of being penitent and sorry for his past misdeeds he signalized his last act by an attempt of the most clumsy description'to pick the pocket of the executioner." Mr McElhone said the late Ministry had stuck to office " for the sake of getting a couple of days' more pay," until they were " kicked out."

The Fraternal Home, 1.0. G.T., meeting last evening was nnusally interesting, the Lodge receiving a visit from the officers and members of the Devon-port Lodge. The latter will give an open meeting on Monday evening, for whi^h a capital programme has been arranged.

The Pakeha-Maori, Moffatt, who was not long ago turned out of the King Country by order of Kewi has got into trouble, a warrant haying been issued for his arrest by the Resident Magistrate of Wanganui. Moffatt is charged with manufacturing a kind of course gunpowder, resembling blast ing powder, but wanting the finishing glaze. The warrant has been entrusted to natives, who are not sanguine of being able to arrest the accxiaed, as he has still many sympa. wrnmx

Arrival of the Wakatipu.

Further European Telegrams.

PROCEEDINGS IN HOUSE OF

COMMONS

[VIA CEYLON.]

[Per Press Agency],

WELLINGTON, this day. The Wakatipu arrived late last night, from Sydney, which she left on the sth instant. The following are Ceylon telegrams, which did not appear in the Australian papers till the sth :—

CONSTANTINOPLE,

February 26.

The Shah of Persia has assured the Porte that massing of his troops on his frontier is simply to punish the Turcomans. Midhat Pasha is staying at Naples.

The decrease in Hardy's Army Estimates is due to the nominal credit being taken for the whole payment of the Indian Govern ment for the British troops serving in India.

Among the notices of motion in the House of Commons, is one by Alderman McArthur, proposing to call attention to the state of affairs in Ceylon in relation to ecclesiastical endowments.

March 3.

Lord Hamilton, in replying to a series of questions from Sir G. Campbell, said the title of Kaisar, as applied to Her Majesty in India, was Arabic and not German. Gerald Fitzgerald also said he had simply chosen to spend a year's leave in the Khedive's service, in carrying out the Goschen's scheme for the reorganization of the finances of Egypt. The reason assigned for the British fleet quitting the Piraeus is that the state of politics does not require its presence in the East.

March 5,

Chefoo Convention remains unratified. Lord Derby requested Sir Thomas Wade to prepare a memorandum giving reasons for every concession made. In the House of Commons, Sir Stafford Northcote, replying to a question by Sir H. Wolff, said the first reduction in the Suez canal dues had been postponed till the 15th April. The Canal Company, he said, objects to England voting because the shares held by the English Government do not bear coupons. The Government protested against this objection, and declares its right to vote as shareholders.

Mr Ward Hunt estimates the expense of the navy for the coming year at 10^ millions.

Mr Hardy, in presenting his army esti mates, said that the condition of the army was excellent. He would shortly present a plan for the promotion and retirement of officers.

AUSTRALIAN.

Fatal Accident on "board the Terapis.

Small Fos in Adelaide.

MELBOURNE.

April 5. The Bannennan testimonial has reached £90.

An application has been made to the Supreme Court to strike an attorney off the rolls for misconduct, but was refused on the ground that the affidavit disclosed an indictable offence, and a conviction must precede any action such as asked for. A fatal accident occurred on board the Terapis during the voyage from London. Two boys were on the topmast, when it broke away, and one of the youths was killed by the fall, and the other knocked overboard and drowned.

ADELAIDE.

April 4. The ship British Enterprise has arrived with a number of immigrants. Seven cases of small pox of a mild description occurred during the voyage, principally amongst the crew. One died and two are yet invalided. Whooping cough and scarlatina were also prevalent. The deaths from all causes are ten. The vessel has been placed in strict quarantine, and further particulars cannot be ascertained.

AUCKLAND CHORAL SOCIETY.

THE first concert of the Society, under its now regime had been looked forward to witli much interest and anxious expectation on the part of those connected with it. The Auckland Choral Society, which has now stood more than ten years, had begun to show signs of decay, and at the beginning of its eleventh year the Committee had put forward a strong and praiseworthy effort to revive it. Foremost among other matters, they had looked round for a new conductor, aud Herr Schott's opportune advent to Auckland supplied what was needed in this respect. Having already had the pleasure of testifying to Herr Schott's attainments both as a conductor and an executant, we need only now mention that the very marked improvement, which none could fail to observe last night, is evidently due in the largest measure to his able and painstaking tuition. Particularly in the orchestra, we never heard the marks of expression so carefully observed at any previous concert of the Society, and on the part of the chorus there was a nearer approach to promptness and decision in attacking the points of a " lead" than ever before. The fughetta, "Etvitam," at the end of the Credo in Beethoven's Mass was exceedingly good in this respect; but on the contrary the " Hosanna" after the " Sanctus" and "Benedictus" was a dread ful scramble. The solo parts in the mass were very unequal. The soprano good but weak, the alto faulty, the tenor and bass very fair indeed, and showing signs of im provement The beautiful "Qui Tollis" and the Benedictus were marred by several inaccuracies, but the chromatic phrases on the words " Passus et Sepultus" were "iven with unusual clearness. We must not leave our notice of the Mass without refer ring to the admirable expression and feeling which characterised the " Agnes Dei." The cresendoa and fortes on the word " pacem" (so wonderfully conceived by the composer) were- brought out with excellent effect, liut the most interesting, because the most novel, portion of the concert was Mendels sohns Athalie," performed last evening for the first time in Auckland. Men delssohn s music is always so popular, that we can hardly wonder at the delight with winch this composition was received by the audience The overture was one of the best performances, in fact the very best that we have ever heard from the Society's band: but the familiar war march of the priests wanted a great deal more string to counterbalance the power of the bras! in struments, which (whether in the melody or in the sustained notes of harmony), p re . dominated throughout. The choruses were '<< PW- \ s? mt>~t he most difficult one, dn»l? T Joy!i t was omitted, but the double chorus, - Lord let us hear Thy voice, was admirably given, and produced a deep sensation. Miss Edger and the 2Sf la?/ es wl™ undertwk the soSo parts all acquitted themselves with SS-' (?*« aS the W accompan - t". °i the soloa an<* recitatives was tmctly The too (accompanied by chorus)

CABLEGRAMS.

[Press Agency.]

This Day. A

Turkish Conference at Staa§f|p Rumoured Turkish Neffoeialßl With Russia^

Any +n LONDON > APril Bth. A Cabinet Council was held at Staaboul on Saturday and Sunday, to consider the invitation of the Powers with reference to the protocol.

The decision is awaited with uneasiness It is rumored that the Porte has reaolved to negotiate with Russia.

SYDNEY EXHIBITION OPENED.

SYDNEY, April 10. The Exhibition was opened at noon by the Governor, with brief formality. Members of the Government, the Corporation, the leading citzens, and a large concourse of people were present. Owing to the live stock show being deferred till the 7th, and exten sive machinery being in a state of unprepar edness, it presented an unfinished appear ance outside. The Canadian and American courts are not yet ready, but the main build, ing is in order, and presented an interesting spectacle. The pastoral, mining, and agricultural interests are well represented. The fine arts show is poor. The sections representing minor industries, are well filled. Mr. W. H. Watt, of Wanganui is highly commended for the wool exhibits.' Two other exhibits of wool of a different class by the same exhibitor are also highly commended.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before Robert Graham, Esq., and James Baber, Esq., Justices.) DRUNKENNESS.

John Nicholson, Mary Hampton, -were charged with drunkenness. John acknow ledged his offence, but Mary denied that she was guilty. The evidence of Constables Abraham and Davis left no doubt that the charge was well founded. Both were fined.

DELIRIUM TREMENS,

Thomas McVeigh, who has been before the Court several times on charges of drunk enness, was brought up this morning on a charge of lunacy. He was seen yesterday morning rushing down one of the principal thoroughfares, shouting murder with all his might. There was no doubt he was suffer ing from D.T. The Bench remanded him for eight days, to give him a chance of recovery.

TOO FAST.

William Hassall was charged with driving round the corner of Queen and Wellesley streets at other than a walking pace. Defendant pleaded guilty. He carried the mail to Henderson's Mill and the Whau, and he was rather late.

Mr Graham said carrying the mail was some excuse, and he should fine him only Is and costs.

BOYISH PRANKS.

William Fairweather, a lad of 15, was charged with wilfully defacing the notice boards at Epiphany Church, on the 15th March.

The Sub-Inspector said the accused, with. another boy, was caught plastering the boards with mud. The other boy had de camped, but a warrant was issued for his apprehension.

The accused pleaded guilty, but said he, was very sorry.

The Bench fined him Is, and costs iOs, and told his mother to chastise him.

This concluded the business.

SUPREME COURT.—This Day.

CRIMINAL SITTINGS,

(Before His Honor Mr Justice Gillies ami ajury, Mr James Soppet foreman). INDECENT ASSAULT. James Gordon, a respectable-looking married man, about 30, was arraigned upon an indictment charging him with committing an indecent assault upon a child named Minnie Jackson, at Short land, on the 11th ol March last. The prisoner pleaded not guilty. Mr Brookfiela, Crown Prosecutor, stated the case, and Mr Hesketh defended the prisoner. Minnie Jackson deposed that she lived with her parents at the Thames. She knew the prisoner, James Gordon, who lived close by. She also knew his wife and children. She had been in the habit of going to his house. On Sunday afternoon, 11th March, she went to his house. Mr and Mrs Gordon were there, but directly after, Mrs Gordon went to the next door neighbour., .Mr Gordon was on the sofa, lying down, she. sat on the end of the sofa. The door of the room opened into the street. . Gordon them caught hold of her and kissed her. She called to the children to help her up, hut they did not. The prisoner then passed the door, and carried her into the bedroom, he laid her on the bed. His little boy the». ran into the room, when his father gaT,e him a slap on the face and told him tr go out. (Witness here described in a tremulous voice the conduct iof the prisoner). She was afraid to cry o\it. She got away into the room where the sofa was, but could not get out because tho door was locked. Prisoner followed hey into the sitting room and unfastened the door. She got out, and saw Mary Montgomery, a little girl. She went to Mrs Mor.gomery for a kettle of water, and went back to Gordon's, and gave the children their tea. Mrs Gordon came in but she did not tell her, as Mr Gordon said Avhat he could do, if she told. She did not tell her mother of the occurrence when she got home, because her father and brothers were there, and she felt ashamed. She afterwards told Mrs Gordon and her mother. Cross-examined by Mr Hesketh : She did not scream out, because she was frightened, of Mr Gordon. She first told her mother, in the presence of Mrs Gordon. She was* examined by two medical men. Prisoner said " I will let you know what I'll do tff you, if you tell." To His Honor: Her mother sent her> with a message to Mrs Gordon on the Mon day, when Mrs Gordon sent for h'J mother. It was at that interview that she made the disclosure. Elizabeth Jackson, wife of Benjamin Jackson, deposed that her daughter was twelve years of age in June nesfj; she lived at the Thames; the prisoner lived next door. Mrs Gordon has ber m til f? r some time, and her daughter had been to the habit of going in to assist Mrs Gordon; she (witness) was the mother iof live chil dren. Witness then described the interior of Gordon's house. Her daughter went to his house on Sunday the 11th, about fcvo and returned about six o'clock in the evening; she and her husband and three sons, the eldest 14, were all sitting together. Her daughter asked if they had had their tea, and went and laid on the sofa until bed time. She knew of nothing that nigp*r the child had not an opportunity of speakjt>£| to her. The next afternoon Mrs Gordons sent for her and made a stateme A?|fflf i wished her to question her little gy fl^My having heard her confession, &.JmF sequcntly informed her husband o&jmp 1' cumstance; she had known &eflPs° n*^ for a number of years, and had Been <J^ good terms, .. . WiUwm Augustus Perston, a ow qualified medical practitioner of the TWW? mjm^ that he Qwmwti $ft clttM H

THE EVENING STAR, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11, 1877.



AU TUMN AND TTT INTER 1877. n The undersigned are Now Opening- Up a Large lot of NEW GOODS, for the incoming Season's Trade, comprising— NOVELTIES IN DRESS MATERIALS (New Patterns). Winceys, new shades, extra width, and un ?"• usual good value, fr^m 6Jd. Black Lustres, Merinoei oatin Cloth f, &c. tS" FLANNELS ! FLANNELS ! -m Flannels all makes, white and coloured. All wool and Union Crimean Shirting All wool Plaids, &c. A Very Choice Lot of NEW LINEN GOODS— Linen Sets, Collars and Cuffs, in great variety, new shapes and cheap. Alloaand Fingering Yarn, plain and fancy colours. WO BALES CHEAP GREY CALICO, 30in. 3d. per yard; 36in., IJd. per yard. Specially suited for House Lining; superior to Scrim, and cheaper. Black Straw Hats, New Ribbons, Flowers, and Trimmings, Skirts, Umbrellas, Jackets, and waterproof Mantles, all sizes. THE CLOTHING DRPARTMENT al 0 well stocked with Boys' and Men's Clothing, in great variety. A New Lot of Men's Printed Moles, good patterns Men's White Moleskin Trousers, a good line, at 7/6 per pair, really cheap Belts, Braces, Collars, Scarfs, Ties, Hats and Caps, and other Goods too numerous to particularise. fIST One Shilling in the £ returned on all Cash Purchases of 20s. and upwards. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMA.N, junction drapery warehouse, Opposite the Aemy and Navy Hotel), Upper Qukbn-stkkkt Auckland. "JTITW~TTR"EFS Q. O O D S. W. RA T T R A V Is now Showing his NEW DRESS GOODS FOR AUTUMN AND WINTER WEAR, Which are of the NEWEST MATERIALS, Most FASHION ABLE STYLES, & MODERATE PRICE. W. RATTRAY, DRAPER AND CLOTHIER, Ufa QUEEN-STREET,



nvroTiCE of removal TT \ TKINS BEGS TO ANNOUNCE THAT HE KST H A S 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 the present time, and to assure them that although his trade has increased to that extent, that his REMOVAL to more Commodious Premises was a neces sity, the same principles of business 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 OP DRAPERY AND CLOTHING Will always be found, and the PRICES THE LOWEST IN AUCKLAND 1 H. ATKINS. I HAVE JUST OPENED A LARGE STOCK OF LADY'S GOLD OPEN FACE AND HUNTING GENEVA WATCHES OF TIIE FIRST QUALITY.! F. H. LEWISSON, Agent for T. Russell and Son's First Quality Watches. miiE PHCENIX FIRE INSURANCE JL COMPANY OF LONDON. Established a Century, during winch time it has Paid in Claims, Eleven Millions Sterling. Head Office : Lombard-street. AGENCIES THROUGHOUT THE WORLD. The undersigned is now prepared to effect INSURANCES at Lowest Current Rates. THOMAS H. MABIN, Superintendent for New Zealand. Office: Lower Queen-street, Opposite Fort-street. f%f * § \ "W^E NOTICE A GREAT RUSH of T ople into PEARSE'S CHEAP DRAPERY and CLOTHING SHOP. On investigation WE find the EXCITEMENT is caused by his Selling CLOTHING, DRAPERY, French Merinos, Alpaccas, Blankets, Flannels, Ribbons, Ruffles, Millinery, Silk Umbrellas, &c, at frightfully LOW PRICES, which seem to us SUCH a SACRIFICE. However, we recommend all who have the CASH to ROLL UP for Bargains now the CHEAP SALE IS ON. /^(r"eTONNES!! Large Assortment of Beautiful Patterns in CRETONNES Just Opened. FURNISH your House economically from the City Hall_Arcad.e. FURNISH your Drawing-room from Holloway and Garlick's Choice Stocky URNISH your Dining-room, Kitchen, and Bedroom with substantial and Cheap Furniture. TVEDDING!—AII made on the Premises. T>EDDlNG!—Guaranteed Genuine. BEDDING I—To fit all sizes Bedsteads and Cots. BEDSTEADS !—Half-tester, French, and Folding. BEDSTEADS —Iron, Wood, all size 3 and prices. "OEDSTEAD Hangings made to order. INOLEUM!—The best covering for Floors of Halls, Dining, and Billiard Rooms. Unsurpassed for durability. LINOLEUM !—Especially prepared for Stairs, just opened ex Loch Urr. LADIES AND GENTLEMEN wanting Good and Cheap Furniture, Drapery, and Clothing, are invited to inspect Our Stock. Most Extensive Show-rooms in Auckland. HOLLOWAY & GARLICK, CITY HALL FURNISHING ARCADE, Queen-street and Lokne-street. Auckland. MUTUAL LIFE ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALASIA. Incorporated by Act of Parliament. NEW ZEALAND BRANCH: Head Office, Auckland- Local Director: George Burgoyne Owen, Esq. (Messrs. Owen and Graham.) Principal Medical Officer: Charles Field Goldsbro', Esq., M.D. General Agent for New Zealand : William T. J. Bell. With Sub-Agencies in all the Principal Towns. Every information on the subject of LIFE ASSURANCE ANNUITIES, and ENDOW MENTS FOR CHILDREN, afforded by J. A. Lowe, Travelling Agent to the Association ; or WILLIAM T. J. BELL, General Agent. tjsl, Special Features.— Age admitted on Policies, which are unchallangable from date of issue. Lowest Rates of Premiums, and no hamper ing conditions as to residence or occupation. __^—— — 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. 6d. a bottle- US, Sharland and Co., opposite Post-office, Auckland. There is no comparison in point of flavour and remedial properties between that incomparable medicinal beverage, Udolpho Wolfe's Schie dam Aromatic Sohnapps, and the imitations of it put up in empty bottles of the real article. The true Schnapps is positively delicious, and an unfailing remedy for the diseases to which it is adapted. The counterfeits have a detestable flavour, and are deleterious in the last degree. The Medical Profession have declared Steane's Superlative Aromatic Tonic Wine to be a necessity to all in search of health, and especially to those suffering either from Incipient or Chronic Indigestion, Dyspepsia, and the dis orders arising therefrom. This Tonic is also particularly recommended to all who are in a measure compelled from the nature of their occupation to take stimulants, and at the same time are desirous of studying health by taking that which will act most benelicially on the system. Mr. Win. Johnson, Government Analy tical Chemist, report: — "I have examined Steane's Superlative Aromatic Tonic Wine, and find it to be remarkably pleasant in flavour, con taining about 16 per cent, of a very pure alcohol, and holding in solution a clear wholesome Vegetable Bitter, combined with a fruity spicy aroma, I consider this Bitter a very superior ,ar,tiele,"rrS9l<iby all Sto*§te>e«l W>4 ffeftb



JjiURXHUBE! FURNITURE Ladies and Gent emen about to Furnish are respect fully requested to inspect the Large Stock of DBA WTN& - ROOM, DINING - BOOM BEDROOM, AND GENERAL HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, In our New and Spacions Slwwroorns. T. <& STCOOKE, 67, QUEEN-STREET Adjoining Bank of New Zealand.