SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

IJr , TirD (Tlita Afternoon, 7.51 riKjrii \» AlJi..-- To . morr otv Morning, £.10 SUN SET.—This Evening. 7.3 SPIN" RISE.—To-morrow Morniner.-4.3S MOON'S AGE.—First Quarter, 13th, 9.13 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

St. Kilda. Flowerday, from Wanganui (in the Manukau) Hauraki. p.s., Oake3, from Waitara (m the Manukau) Ellerton. schooner, Abrams. from Lyttelton Venus, ketch, Kiner. from Napier Wanaka. s.s., McGiUivray, from the South.

DEPARTURES.

Go-ahead, s.s.. for Gisborne Rowena, s.s., Sellars, for Tauranea Golden Isle, schooner, for Russell Mary Anderson, McKenzie, from Wangaroa Fanny Kelly, ketch, for Wanp-aroa Blanche, schooner for Rarotonga. La Gironde, schooner, for Rarotonga.

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Linda Weber, from Timaru; sailed sth inst. Anelles, ship, from London; sailed 16th Oct. May Queen, barque, from London, early Irou Queen, barque, from London; sailed 7th Abbey Holme, barque, from London; sailed September.

IMPORTS.

Per Rotorua: 101 gunnies I.C. sugar, /U gunnies crystals (2nds).—Charles Maior. "Per «chooner Ellerton, from Lyttelton: 1000 sacks wheat.—John Lamb.

EXPORTS.

Per ss. Go-Ahead, for Gi3borne: 1 case 40 gunnies sugar, 44 packages, 1 cask currants, 5 cases wine.—Owen and Graham. 1 bale leather.—lreland Brothers. Per s.s. Rotorua, for Southern ports: 10 bags ric?. 15 cases kerosene.- Owen and Graham. Per schooner Blanche, for Rarotonsa: 14 cases and boles cottons and apparel, 5 cases Geneva, 4 boxes tobacco, 20Jmats sugar, 20 cases kerossne. 7 cases bottled beer, 13 cases pre served fish, 10 drums oil, 2 tins paint, 4 packages hardware, 10,000 feet timber, 20 boxes soap, 180 tins iiour, SO tins biscuit?, 24 boxes soap, 5 cases stores, 45 packages ironmongery-—Owen and Graham. The p.s. Hauraki. from Waitara, arrived in the Manukau yesterday with a cargo of sheep The brigantine Linda Weber is bringing 1,040 sacks of wheat from Timaru for this port. The departure of the schooner Gaelfor Levuka is postponed until Saturday morning. The schooner Mary Anderson has sailed for Wangaßoa to load timber for Dunedin. The brigantine Omaha has finished her re pairs on the gridiron, and is now loading again iot Chatham Islands. She is to sail on Satur d-iv. . . The s.s. St Kilda. from Wanganui. arrived m the Manukau yesterday. She is advertised to leave, again for Wanganui to-morrow, at 11 a.m. The schooner Blanche left early this morning, and the La Gironde later m the day, for Rarotonga. and it is expected' that a slashing race will take place between them, which will test the respective sailing powers of the two craft. The English quondam yaehs is the favorite, but the German vessel is no sluggard, and has many admirers. r The s.s. Wanaka arrived in the Manukau this morning. Left Wellington at 2.30 p.m. 3rd, and arrived in Picton at 9 p.m., left Picton at 10 p.m., and arrived in Nelson at 6 a.m. 4th, lett Nelson at 6.15 p.m.. and arrived at Taranaki at 9.30, and sth left Taranaki at 3.30 p.m. Passengers: Messrs Runciman, Hazard, Nor man, Svmonds, Mr. Mrs. and Miss Smith, Mr Grossman, Mrs Garlick, Mrs Kirk, Mr Orr, Mr Solomon, and 7 steerage. The ship City of Anckland changed her berth this morning from the outside of the new •western tee to the inside of the outer western tee She will finish her loading in this berth. This well-known vessel has several passenger berths still unengaged, and applications on the part of intending voyagers had better be made early to prevent disappointment. The schooner Ellerton, Captain Abrams, arrived from Lyttelton yesterday afternoon, with a cargo of wheat, etc. She left port on the 23rd ult.. and has had light airs and calms oVne e s^sTsoulhern Cross arrived at Napier yesterday at half-past three.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under : For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m., and to morrow, at 3.30 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, per Argyle, to-morrow, at 2.30 p.m. For Tauranga, per Ettie White, this day. at i p.m. For Wanganui, per St. Kilda, to-morrow, at 8 a.m. For New Plymouth, via Waitara, per Hauraki, to-morrow, at 8 a.m. For Tryphena, per Wave, to-morrow at 4.30 p.m. For Taranaki, Southern provinces, and Aus tralian Colonies, per Wanaka, on Saturday next, at 8 a.m. For Levuka, per Gael, on Saturday next, at 7 a.m. For Waiwera. Mahurangi, Matakana, Mhnga wai, Waipu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Anne Milbank, on Saturday next, at 10 a.m. For Chatham Islands, per Omaha, on Saturday next, at 3 p,m. For Russell and Kawa Kawa, per Hawea, on Monday next, at 4 p.m. For Russell, Kawa KaWa, Wangaroa, and Mongonni, per lona, on Monday next, at 4 p.m. Per s.s. Wellington, on Tuesday, 11th instant as follows :— For India, China, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 9.30 a.m. For Taranaki, Southern Provinces, Aus tralian Colonies, and United Kingdom, via Suez and Southampton (for letters specially so addressed), at 10 a.m. For United Kingdom, via Brindisi. and late letters for Southern Provinces and Melbourne at 10.15 a.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 9.30 a.m. Per s.s. City of Sydney, on Wednesday, 19th instant, as follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United States of America, Canada. British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 11 a.m. ; mwwtft For United Kingdom, and Continent of Europe^ at 11 a.m. For money orders, ret'is fered letters, and newspapers, at 9.30 a.m. Late letters, bearing; an extra fee of 6d, in addition to the postage, will be received by the mail agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. S. B. JBISS. Chiel; Postmaster.

BIRTHS.

[The price for inserting birth notices in this column is reduced to one shilling; other notices as bef ore.l

ALLAN.—On the 6th December, at Selwyn

street, Onehmiga, the wife of R. Sinclair Allan of a daughter.

DEATH.

SKELLON".—On the sth December, 1877, Samuel Hensby, eldest twin son of Thomas and Sarah Eliza Skellon, aged 11 months. The funeral will leave Cook-street, to morrow (Friday), at 2 p.m.

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

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 1877.

&yr ttss cause that lacks assistance For the wrong that needs tesistanca, Fo» the future in the distance,

The Government will probably finish, their business in the House of Representatives this evening, and in the Legislative Council two days later, enabling Parliament to be prorogued about the end of the week. The Auckland members, who need not remain until the close of the business in the Upper House, may be expected here in three or four days by the Hinemoa. Sir George Grey remains at Wellington until the re turn of the Hinemoa, but is expected to leave for Auckland about Wednesday next. He will make a short stay at Napier en route, in order to settle some important native business. Sir George Grey may therefore be expected here about the 18th or 20th at latest. We have already urged upon the public of Auckland the desirability of celebrating the return of Sir George Grey by pome fitting demonstration which would serve to prove the universal con fidence which is reposed in him by the people, and their high appreciation of the consistent patriotism, unflinching courage, and consummate'skill which he has exhibited during the now-closing political campaign, in the endeavour to obtain justice for this portion of the colony. We feel sure there will be no lukewarmness in displaying that gratitude which all must feel for one who has contended so long and so nobly at the cost of per sonal ease, pecuniary advantage, and in the face of much undeserved obloquy for the present and future weal of Auckland. It is true Sir George Grey is not a man who seeks such honours at the hands of the people, and who may well rest content with that self-approval which accompanies the consciousness of success in a righteous cause, but nevertheless it is incumbent on the people themselves to shew that they are not ungrateful for the benefits he has conferred. The public demonstration might be made to include the Auckland members who have so loyally seconded his efforts. The interval for prepar ation will be short, and it is necessary that immediate steps should be taken to appoint a Reception Committee to arrange the de tails. No time should be lost in convening a public meeting for the purpose.

OUR Parliamentary telegrams announce an important amendment, to which the Govern ment have consented in the Counties Act Amendment Bill, empowering the Go vernor, under the 117 th section of the Public Works Act, 1566, to abolish or re duce tolls, in counties where the Act has not been adopted. This action of the Go vernment is believed to be due to the exer tions of Mr J. A. Tole, M.H.R., in his correspondence relative to the County of Eden. The addition of this clause to the Bill will therefore settle the vexed question of authority to levy tolls in that county. Another important clause casting the duty of maintaining main roads on the Govern ment, was also carried.

THE Government have carried the second reading of the Four Million Loan Bill in spite of the strenuous Opposition of Major Atkinson, who desired to limit the proposed loan to one-half that amount. No very great degree of penetrationis needed to enable even the merest |tyro in politican strategy to perceive the motives which influenced the so-called leader of the Opposition in adopt ing that course. By over-weening confi dence in his own heaven-born finance he had succeeded in reducing the colony to the verge of bankruptcy, from which it was opportunely extricated by the acces sion to office of Mr Larnach. Seeing that the proposals of the Grey Ministry would enable them to establish the financial condition of the colony on a sound basis, Major Atkinson, with that selfishness which has distinguished his political career, desired to emasculate the Bill, and to partially cripple the Government until next session. His cool proposal to refer financial questions to the' Public Accounts Committee almost in the last hours of the session was a move only worthy of a politician who has throughout endeavoured to bolster up his position, and to embarrass his opponents by tricks' and artifices. He had probably calculated that reference of the matter to the committee would have resulted in shelving the Bill this session. In this, as in other similar steps he has been again foiled," and unless the Bill meets with resistance in the Upper House it will doubt less become law.

We learn that a general desire prevails at Cambridge that Mr Whitaker, M.H.R., should visit the district and_ address his constituents. The new public hall will be completed about the 24th inst. and it is hoped that Mr Whitaker will be present at the subsequent inauguration. Should he con sent to visit the district, the hall would be appropriated for a political meeting during the day, and for a concert in the evening. A correspondent, who signs himself "Colonial Industry," writes: "Sir, —I notice an advertisement by the City Council inviting tenders until the 10th inst. for 100 chains of four-rail Hobart Town fencing for the city abattoirs. Why should we continue to send money out of the colony when we have such excellent timber of our own for fencing purposes ? It seems to me perfectly astounding that the City Council should cast this unmerited slur on our New Zealand timber, and should encourage foreign importations at the expense of our local industry. Not lone: ago there was an agitation throughout the principal centres of population in the colony urging the Government to discontinue importing rail way and other public material which can be equally well produced in the colony, and I believe the Government has counter manded some large orders which were sent home by the late Minister of Public Works. I hope, sir, the new Mayor will turn his attention to the matter of this timber contract and will endeavour to retain the money in circulation here instead of sending it away to maintain Tasmanian bushmen." [We cordially agree with our correspondent, and trust that the City Council will see good reason to adopt his uggestion.—Ed. E.S.]

Brother William Fox has presented the Working Men's Society of Napier with a picture of " Napoleon in Exile." This, of course, is a touching illustration of Mr Fox's own position as a political exile. The Waitaki County Council is a lucky body. After paying all outstanding liabili ties it will have a credit balance of £13,770, and in addition to this the Council claims, between £70,000 and £SO,OOO revenue from the Government, and threatens to issue a mandamus against the Colonial Treasurer if f.he money be not paid immediately. Wi ital i County is in clover. § We understand that a numerously signed requisition is being g<fcup at Cambridge, calling the Rev. livai:< to undertake tht pastoral charge of the Presbyterian congre gation there. A new journal called Ithe " Ttmuka Leader" was published yesterday.

Resideuts in tlie neighbourhood _of Freeman's Bay complain of the destruction caused in their kitchen gardens by the inroads of a flock of goats.

The members of Hengard's Star Variety Troupe will give a grand conceit and dance this evening, in aid of the widow and orphans of the late^ Constable Tapsell. The programme comprises the ■ names of some of our best and most popular amateur singers, &c., and the dance at the close will be very select. We therefore trust that the people of Auckland will patronise an entertainment given for such a charitable and deserving object.

The members of the Havelock Histrionic Class intend to perform Coleman's comedy of the " Heir-at-Law," at the Newmarket Hall this evening. They will be assisted by the members of the Victoria Lodge, 1.0. G.T., who will sing several sentimental and comic songs during the evening. Con sidering the excellent manner in which this play was represented by the class in Auckland some time ago, we have not the slightest hesitation in expressing our belief that the entertainment this evening will be successfully carried out.

The annual sermon to Sunday-school teachers in connection with the Auckland branch of the Sunday-school Union was preached last evening in the lecture hall of the Young Men's Christian Association by the Rev G. B. Monro, of Remuera. The text selected by the preacher was from Ecclesiastes, c. 2., v. 6. "In the morning sow the seed, and in the evening -withhold not thine hand; for thou knowest not whether shall prosper either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good. The sermon was full of excellent and well considered advice to teachers, but un fortunately few teachers were present to hear it. Mr George Goldie, Sanitary-Inspector, reports:—" During the month ending November, 18M, there were 17 deaths registered within, the city of Auckland. The number during the corresponding month of 1876 were 18 deaths. There were 5 deaths in the Hospital during the month of 1377." Owing to some misunderstanding as to the date'of the meeting of creditors in the estate of W. H. Sykes, which was to have been held yesterday, the meeting has been postponed.

At the meeting of the Onehunga Licensing Court yesterday,' the license of the Junction Hotel was transferred to Mr E. Y. N. Jenkins.

Meredith Rountree, described as a master mariner, has filed a statement of his inability to meet his engagements with his creditors, and the first meeting in con nection with his insolvency will be held on the 20th of December.

The recent soiree at the school-room of the upper district of Waipu was very suc cessful. Mr H. Rowlands was the chair man of the evening, and Miss Kate McMillan, formerly of City East' School (Auckland), presided at the pianoforte, and performed several selection? with much ability. A number of songs and recitations were given, and the evening closed with dancing, The receipts for tickets reached £9, which will go towards the purchasing of books for the children's Christmas prizes. We learn that Miss McMillan has given great satisfaction in her conducting of the Waipu school, and the scholars have made much progress in the several branches of education under her careful tuition.

At the Ouehunga Resident Magistrates' Court yesterday, a boy named William Molloy was fined ss, and costs 9s, for tres passing on the railway, and causing water to escape from the tanks. James Loomb, hotel-keeper, of Paninure, was charged with supplying beer to James Burke, the latter being already intoxicated. Mr Sub-Inspector Pardy prosecuted, and Mr Alexander appeared for the defendant. James Burke, Joseph Fahey, R. Bromage, Caroline Burke, and G. Kingsley, having given evidence, the Bench dismissed the case on the ground that it had not been proved that the beer bad been supplied to Burke, as stated in the information. The Remuera Highway Board propose to plant Mount Hobson with ornamental trees, should the Waste Lands Board consent .to vest the property in them. The funeral of Mrs Daldy Itook place yesterday afternoon in the Symonds-street Cemetery. The merchant's offices were partly closed in token of respect to deceased, and the flags in city and harbour hung at half-mast. The members of the City Council and Harbour Board attended the funeral. Capt. Daldy, Mr W. Daldy, jun., Mr H. Pulham, and Mr F. Coombes, were the chief mourners, and the Rev. J. Robert son, of the Beresford-street Church, the officiating clergyman. At the grave this gentleman delivered a brief funeral address.

Mr Kirk-wood, of the National hotel, Cambridge, has parted with his interest to Mr Walker, late of Hamilton. The exact terms of the transaction have not transpired, but we are informed that they are highly favourable to Mr Kirkwood.

The long prevailing drought causes considerable loss and suffering in Christ church, Timaru, Dunedin, and other places. The crops are endangered and the cattle suffer from scarcity of water.

Mr Treewheeler, the enterprising baker, pastrycook, and confectioner, of Hamilton, advertises a certificate with which he has been favoured by one of the many belles of that rising inland town. We may add that the ladies of Hamilton have earned a high reputation as connoisseurs in confectionery, and it speaks volumes for Mr Trccwheeler's skill that he has hitherto, succeeded in securing their unqualified approval. Mr Treewheeler knows how to furnish sweets to the sweet, and no wonder the young men and women of Hamilton are " sweet," on his establishment.

There are 3651 Crown Grants ready for delivery at the Crown Lands Ofiice here, on which a total of about £10,000 is due in the shape of fees. We understand thai the Government intend taking prompt action to secure the payment of; these fees. " Pigeon Fancier" writes : " Sir, —Can you inform me what sort of pigeon is a " fantail carrier." I see that your contem porary the " Herald" wants bird-fanciers to exhibit this rara avis in terra. I may say that in all my life-time I have never be held this wonderful bird, but if your con temporary has one on the premises, I trust the editor will exhibit him to tho public at a small charge. Of course I have seen fan tail pigeons, but I never heard of their be ing used as carriers, their posterial develop ment being unfavourable for straight flight." A resident at the| top of Grey-street writes that the dog about which complaints have been made is perfectly harmless, and he has never observed on the part of the animal any of those ferocious tendencies which " Observer" mentioned. The writer further affirms his disinterestedness by the statement that he has never spoken to the owner of the dog, and does not maintain a canine quadruped himself.

Captain•Roundtree, of the cutter Maud, reports a rather aggravating circumstance which occurred on his last trip to Russell. When off Cape Brett the carcase of a dead whale was seen floating not far out of the vessel's track The huge hlaclc body was partly exposed above "the surface of the water, and very nearly resembled the bottom of a capsized boat. The captain aud crew became aware what it was from the enormous number of birds and sharks which surrounded the carcase. Knowing the rich prize a whale would prove—sven if a little high—an effort was made to tow it into Russell, but the wind coming oft" the land made the job a very awkward one, and at last it had to be abandoned, and the cutter continued her course. Some hours afterwards a change of wind again took place, and the cutter stood back to try again. This time the captain found thathe had been forestalled, for the monster was being towed by four boats manned by natives. There was nothing for it but to leave them their prize, which was worth at least £200. The boats succeeded in getting the whale into the harbour.

A mail named John Webb was yesterday killed by a fall of earth at Anderson's Bay, Otago.

We have received a letter signed by thirty-eight steerage passengers bythes.s. Australia on her last trip from San Fran cisco, complaining in strong terms of the treatment they received on the passage. They assert that the bedding was insuffi cient and that several passengers were obliged to sleep on tables or on deck ; that the water was impure, unhealthy, and sparingly provided ; the tin dishes and knives and forks rusty, the provisions of inferior quality, the bread badly baked, and the cooking generally unsatisfactory. The writers further state that a reduction at Honolulu in the number of passengers did not improve matters, and that their complaints were ignored. Some of the passengers paid an extra ten dollars to be permitted to take their meals in the officers' mess-room, and they declare that though they con sidered the fare of 100 dollars very high they would gladly have paid a fourth more in exchange for better treatment. The great length of the letter precludes its publication in full. We trust, however, that the Company's agents will institute careful inquiry into these complaints, and if they are proved to be well-founded will call the responsible parties to account.

A respected settler of Waitakerei informs us that on Saturday last he saw to seaward, about ten miles north of Manukau Heads, and an equal distance from shore, a large floating object, apparently a vessel, bottom upwards. It was much too large for a log. He watched it for two hours, during which it shifted its position a little, so that there could be no mistake. Vessels from Kaipara should keep a look-out. '•'P.P." (Howick) writes that a new school-room is being unnecessarily erected at that village, seeing that there is already a comfortable building with ample laccom modation for the existing attendance, and that the inhabitants did not ask for a new building. "P.P." considers it somewhat singular that, while other districts are cry ing out for school-accommodation a second building should be unnecessarily erected at Howick. and that on an unsuitable site.

At the next meeting of the City Council, Councillor Masefield will move : "Thatthe time of the members of this Council may be saved, and the work equally divided, is it desirable that two large committees be formed comprising the whole of the present committees; and that the Town Clerk be in structed to submit details for consideration of this Council,each committee to meet once a fortnight at 3 o'clock in the afternoon."

We have ascertained on making further inquiries that our correspondent " Fact," in his so-called correction of our leading article of the 27th ult, fell into some inaccuracies. From the first of July last the pay of the police throughout the colony was placed on a uniform standard. A concert will be given in the Masonic Hall, Onehunga, to-morrow evening, by the members of the Onehunga Glee Club, assisted by the members of the Orpheus Glee Club, and other talent from Auckland. The programme comprises glees, quar tettes, songs, and instrumental selections by Messrs Howden, Henderson, Bartley, Burnham, Edmiston, Rodgers, and Patter son. The various lodges of Onehunga have promised to patronise the entertain ment, which should therefore prove to be a great success. Mr W. Walters received news ffrom Sydney by the Rotorua that his brood mare Fanny Fisher, has dropped a beautiful filly to Traducer, and was stinted to Yattendou early in the season. His other brood mare Peerless visited the same horse early in November.

AUCKLAND DIOCESAN SUNDAY-SCHOOL EXHIBITION.

This juvenile industrial exhibition of the works of the children of the schools attached to the Church of England was opened this afternoon at three o'clock, in the Lome-street Hall. Rev. Dr Cowie was expected to have made a few opening remarks ; but his Lordship, being at Waiapu, was unable to be present. The exhibits xvere far more numerous than was generally expected. Contributions in curiosities, art, plain and fancy needlework, have been received from the schools of St. Paul's, St. Matthew's, St. Sepulchre's, All Saints', St. Thomas', Epiphany, Holy Trinity, North Shore; Mount Albert, Hamilton. Onehunga, Kaipara Plats. St. George' 3, Thames; Taranaki, St. Mark's, Remuera; Bombay, and Mauku. About 33 first-class prizes were given for various things, but as the prize models of cottages, vessels, specimens of dried ferns, and a pretty curiosity, which will attract notice, namely a miniature guitar, by a little girl. The Lord's Prayer, beautifully engrossed in coloured inks, by F. J. Hunt, is also worthy of notice. Several good pencil drawings, chiefly by Frederick A. Clarke, especially a portrait of Hishop Selwyn, are very creditable productions, We shall have more to say upon particular arti cles in our next,andonly add that, the exhibition list was not complete on going to press, we are obliged to hold over the names of successful competitors until to-morrow. Apart from the numerous school contributions, we noticed especially several piles of serge and duck work, by the boys of the Kohimarama training school, which was highly recommended for neatness, strength, and style. Much prominence was given to articles of U3e in needlework, and many exhibits in this line obtained prizes There was also a very large supply of fancy needle and wool-work goods occupying a very cinsidei able space in tLe exhibition which will be open from 7 until 10 o'clock this evening, when the Orpheus String Band will be in atten dance.

AUCKLAND STOCK AND MINING ASSOCIATION.

TO-DAY'S QUOTATIONS. Bank of New Zealand—Buyers, £22 10s. National Bank—Buyers, 70a; sellers, 725. Colonial Bank—Sellers, 50s. ■ Auckland Gas—Sellers, £10103. South British Insurance—Sellers, 778. New Zealand Insurance—Buyers, 958. New Zealand Loan—Buyers, £5 10s. Caledonian (dble)—6os; sellers, 655. Conquering Hero—Sellers, 12s Cd. Red Queen—Sellers, 2s 3d. Moanatairi—Bos.; Buyers, 80s; sellers, 81s. Tookey Tribute—2s 6d ; buyers, 2s 3d; sellers, 23 6d. Alburnia—Sellers, 66s 6d. Union Beach—Buyers, 275; sellers, 29?. Kuranui Hill—Sellers, 16s. Piako—Sellers, Bs. Thames—Buyers, 30s; sellers, 10s. New Golden Pah.—Sellers, 2s 3d. Welcome—Sellers, is. JOSEPH NEWMAN. Chairman.

MONGONUI.

(From a Correspondent.) CHANCE "FOR A SHOEMAKER AND BLACKSMITH. ZH^ Mr. White, our R.M., who has lately under gone a very serious operation for glaucoma, under the celebrated Germpn occulist, at Auck land, is rapidly regaining; his sight, and there is every probability; of the operation turning: out a success. Our principal shoemaker has lately left here, and gone to reside on his farm in the Victoria Valley. A good opening consequently presents itself for another shoemaker here, Mr Edwards, our blacksmith, who lately resided at Oruru, died about six weeks since. There is now no blacksmith nearer than Whangaroa, twenty miles trom here. A steady, industrious blacksmith could not fail to do well here- NEW ZEALAND AND CANADA. This district has, during the last few years, considerably advanced in material prosperity, but want of roads has been great draw back. All our coast line is poor land, and until lately we had no passable main roads to the good land in the interior. I this morning had a conversation with a native of Hampshire, England, a working farmer, with several working sons. I regret that I was too busy to take down our conversation, but it was some thing like the following: "I was for 20 years a settler near New London, Canada. For 7 or 8 months in the year we were frozen up, and had to house all our cattle. All our operations had to be completed in 4 or 5 months, and we frequently lost our crops. I have been in the Victoria Valley 4or 5 years. I have 40 head of cattle, quite tame, and I don't know how many pigs. 1 have a good many acres down in crop, (I forget how many), and have some of the finest corn I ever saw, and have all sorts of vegetables that cannot be beaten., We have lately cleared 15 or 16 acres of bush, and hope soon to have a good road out to Ahipara, which will be of immense benefit to us. You ask me which I think preferable, this or Canada. I have no hesitation in stating that this is far the better of the two. Why, Sir, I have some of the finest land I ever saw," And with such a climate as this what can be better ? SHIPPING-WHALING. The brigantine Adonis is now lying here load ing timber for Mr Wyles for Sydney. I am informed that the whaling parties along the coast have had great luck, so much so that they have not sufficient casks to stow their oil in, and have to fill canoes until they can procure casks. A large number of cattle have been sent to market from this district lately, over a thousand head within the last nine months. Shearing is finished, and generally the country is looking well.

PONSONBY WESLEYAN SUNDAY SCHOOL.

Ax entertainment on behalf of the above School was held at the Ponsonby Wesleyan Church last evening, and was well attended and highly appreciated. The previous entertain ments which have been got up by the Com mittee of this School to augurnent their funds having passed off with so much eclat, led to the expectation that this one would also be success ful, and the expectation was not disappointed. As the entertainment was prepared expressly for Mothodist Sunday-school purposes, the teachers wisely availed themselves, to a con siderable extent.of the assistance of the scholars, which was cheerfully rendered, and with good results.The Rev W.Kirk presided on the occasion and briefly yet pointedly performed the opening services. Along and varied programme was then gone through, consisting of music, songs, recitations, etc. Among the recitations we were much pleased with the following, which were given in a most effective manner: The Bible," by Edward Blorufield; " Pleasures of Hope," by W. Day ; " The Inquiry." by Walter Langsf ord; and the " Dying Child," by Margaret Palmer. The musical selections also, by some of the scholars, were very creditable for such young performers, and we feel bound to con gratulate the teachera of this school on having such varied and general ability amongst their scholars. Professor Lambort was all that could be desired in his Harmonium Voluntary. The Misses Woodham and other ladies who kindly assisted, did much towards completing as in teresting and varied a programme as we have listened" to for a long time. Tho proceedings closed about 9.30 by singing the National Anthem.

Our London Letter

(jf .literary, social, x hjsal kluab, axd Sporting News. LONDON, October 15. DEGRADED TONE OF SOCIETY. THE morale of our town mobs now-a-days appears to be about as bad as possible. The convicts, Benson and JKurr, men who boast of having been guilty of nearly every known crime except murder, are daily greeted with uproarious cheers by the intelligent crowd outside Bow-street. There are also loud rejoicings over the reprieve of those monsters, the Penge murderers, and we are told that the people would have attempted to rescue them if they had not been let off. Again, yesterday, Mr Big nell, the proprietor of that den of iniquity, the Argyll llooms, after receiving a renewal of his license from a full bench of Middlesex magistrates, " retired from the Court amidst congratulatory applause." Truly this is a nice state of things, and speaks volumes for our nineteenth century and civilisation. LITERARY ITEMS. Mr Archibald Forbes, the representative of the " Daily News," and the best of the war correspondents, has been obliged to return home in consequence of having been prostrated by the fever which is so preva lent amongst the Russit-ns. His letters have always been graphic, vigorous, and reliable, and will be greatly missed. He is now in Scotland recruiting. Mr Delane is retiring from the editorship of the " Times." He will be succeeded by Mr Chenery, who has been for many years on the staff._ Some sensation has been caused in literary circles by a very -scurrilous attack on the " World," which appeared in the " Con temporary Review," and is supposed to have emanated from Mr Robert Buchanan, the poet. As Mr Yates, the editor of the " World, " was the first man to help Mr Buchaaan on in life, and absolutely saved him from starvation on one occasion, the conduct of the latter in attacking _ him personally without cause or quarrel is in excusable. THE THEATRES. During, the last month an unusual number of new pieces l^ve been produced at the London theatres. At Drury Lane we have a spectacular drama entitled "England," by W. G. Willis, which is founded on the •' Peveril of the Peak." It is not very highly spoken of. The Court Theatre opened with* a posthumous play called the " House of Darnley," four acts of which were written by the late Lord Lytton, and a fifth by Mr Coghlan, author of "Lady Flora." The piece is magnificently put on the stage, and though scarcely worthy of the author of the " Lady of Lyons," will neverthe less draw good houses for a long time to come. The chief characters are pleasantly performed by Mr Kelly, Miss Ellen Terry, and Mr Hall. Mr W. S. Gilbert, whose comedy of " Pygmalion and Galatea" will be known to Auck landers, has written a funny three-act farce tor the Haymarket called "Engaged." The scene of the piece is on the borderland between England and Scotland, and the complications turn on the Scotch carriage laws. Mr George Honey plays the principal part with great unction. For the Olympic Theatre Mr Wilkie Collins has adapted his novel of the '"Moonstone." People who have read the book do.not think much of the play, but, like all the other pieces I have mentioned, it will reach the colonies soon, and you will be able to form an opinion on it for yourselves.

PARLIAMENTARY

(From our OAvn Correspondent.)

WELLINGTON, this day.

THE HINEMOA AGAIN.

In reply to Mr Fitzroy, asking the nature of the important service on Avhich the Hmemoa would be engaged in January, and which Ministers stated was the leason why Sir Wm. Jervois could not have her, Sir George Grey said Ministers were the proper judges of the importance of the service which the Hinenioa will be engaged upon, and which would prevent her being placed at the disposal of Sir Wm. Jervois. There was no understanding that she would be placed at the disposal of Sir Wm. Jervois ; but if it Avas desired the Government would furnish the log of the Hinemoa to shew Avhat services she had been employed in. THE HINEMOA CORRESPONDENCE. The Governor's correspondence re Sir William Jervois is vieAved as a complaint made by him unconstitutionally against his Ministers, and sent doAvn to the House in such a sudden, peremptory, and threatening manner, that> Ministers had no time to con sider it. Public sympathy is indicated by gossip and opinions. Both the evening papers thoroughly support Ministers in their determination not to incur the expenditure, Avhich the financial position and geographi cal character of the country does not warrant. There are very feAV Avho sympa thise Avith the Governor. To-day, a member of the Upper House moves that it is desirable the Council should know Avhat are the services in Avhich the Hinemoa is- required, and which prevents her being given to Jervoise. THE GOVERNOR'S TOADIES. Mr Fitzroy also asks another'question in the House, and I should not be surprised to see the Governor's relations to Ministers taken into consideration again, in Avhich he will come off second best. CLOSE OF SESSION. Probably the session Avill Avind up to morroAV night. NEXT SESSION. Mr-jWoolcock asked the Premier at Twhat date it was proposed to call -Parliament to gether next session. Sir George Grey replied that the Govern ment could not at present fix the exact date, but it Avas necessary that the Government should have power to hold tho session at any time it deemed necessary. As soon as the date Avas decided upon it would be gazetted. MESSAGE FROM THE COUNCIL. A message Avas receiA-ed from the Speaker of the Legislative Council intimating that the Council proposed to pass a neAV Stand ing Order providing that it Avould not consider any private Bill introduced later in the session than after tAvo months from the opening of the session. The message evoked considerable comment, many mem bers regarding the proposed Standing Order as an infringement of the privileges of the Commons. Sir George Grey remarked that the House could not agree with any such Order, as it Avould infringe upon the liberties of the people whom the House represents.

Mr Johnston denounced the proposal h> make such a Standing Order as an unwar rantable attempt on the part of the Lords to dictate to the Commons, and several other members spoke in equally strong terms. Mr O'Rorke, however, restored the equanimity of the House by statin^ that such a Standing Order could only be'passed by arrangement at a conference of the two Houses, and ultimately the Speaker w a , request ed to communicate with the Speaker of the Upper House to that effect. At a later stage a courteous reply was received from Sir John Richardson, intimating that the Council only submitted the proposed Standing Order as to come into force next session, and requested a conference on the subject with the House of Representativee SECOND READINGS. The Public Reserves Bill and New Zea land Stock Bill were read a second time. Legislative Council. — Tko Jervois SmTaroglio- The Hon. John Hall's motion on Sir William Jervois lasted nearly the wfyole afternoon. A lot of twaddle was talked about discourtesy to the Governor and Jervois, and falling behind other colonies. Colonel Brett followed in a violent speech against _ the Government, and moved au addition to Mr Hall's motion expressing regret, amounting to censure* on the conduct of Ministers. The whole thing fell flat. Col. Whitmore considered there had been misapprehension in the minds of all concerned. It was never intended to insult Sir William Jervois, and with regard to the other colonies, his sug gestions had not been voted for. It would be far less insulting to say they did not require the services of Sir William Jervois than to invite him and refuse his report when made. Col. Kenny said the late Government were to blame in not bringing matters before the House, and asking a vote for the purpose; but after blowing off a lot of steam, the amendment was withdrawn. THE FOLLOWERS AND HENCHMEN. The Governor's aides-de-camp -were present, one behind the Speaker's chair, and Captain Maling listening intently in the shade of the pillars in the Strangers' Gallery. Mr Fitzroy, in the House, was taken down by a suitable answer he received from the Premier to the question he was put up to ask, viz., " What were the services of the Hinemoa which required her in January ?" Sir George Grey said the Government were the best judges of the services the vessel was wanted for, and if the hon. gentleman would repeat the question next session, the Government would let him know all about it. The Public Revenues Act was passed. Major Atkinson is zealous in finance measures. Sir Wm. Fitherbert made a long, careful, and earnest speech in strong opposition to the Consolidated Stock or Inscription Bill. He said the time was inopportune. No one could tell what would be the effects of the contemplated change of taxation next session; besides, tbe present bond-holders would require more advantages. He spoke late for about an hour. Progress was repsrted on the Bill. House to Prorogue ia Two Days. The House sits to-day at twelve noon, and will probably finish the Government business to-night; but there will he a delay of a day or two in the Council. SIR GEORGE GREY LEAVES FOR AUCKLAND ON THE 11TBL Sir George Grey will l6ave about Wednesday next by the Hfnemoa on her return, after taking Northern memhers. He will go to Auckland via Napier, where he puts in on business connectedjwith the district. Counties Amendment Act.—lm portant New Clauses. The Government consented to an ad ditional clause in the Amended Counties Bill, enabling the Governor in cases where the Counties Act is not in force to have the powers of the County Council, in section 117 of the Public Works Act of last session, viz., to abolish or reduce tolls if thought desirable. This is said to have been done in deference to correspondence which MrTole had with the Government on. the subject with reference to toll-gates in the County of Eden. MAINTENANCE OF MAIN EOADS. The maintenance by the Government of the main roads, after a slight discussion on. the clause, was carried.

Last Night.

(PKESS AGENCY.) Four Million Loan Bill Seal Second Time. In moving the second reading of the £4,000,000' Loan Bill, Sir George Grey admitted that though authority to raise four millions Avas asked, it was not likely to be exercised immediately. It was necessary to clothe the Ministry with this authority to pay everybody, in order to enable them to negotiate on fair terms Avith their creditors. Within 18 months £1,300,000 wouldbe requiredf or public works and immigration; £500,000 for provincial liabilities; £300,000 to repay advance from the public Avorks account—£l,ooo,ooo, and to that add £832,000 in Treasury Bills. In all upAvards of £4,000,000 Avould be re quired. There Avere also guaranteed debentures to be reduced, if necessary. It Avas not absolutely necessary to either pay off the Banksor Treasury Bills, but was desirable to have poAA-er to do so if pressed. He pledged himself not to raise a penny more of the loan than absolutely necessary. Hajari Atkinson Opposes mow than c 52,000,000. Major Atkinson declared the conductor the Government, in asking such powers on. such a vague statement, Avas unprecedented. He denied the existence of. a half-a-mulion provincial liabilities. Those so called were; mere speculative estimates from Otago, Avhich, if recognised, the rest of the colony Avould have aright to demand at lew half-a-million more. He criticised tne details of Sir George Grey's statemen, and challenged him to refer to the J^m. Works Accounts Committee to repon whether he had not in his budget provwgj for aU proper provincial liabilities and on charges of the current year, and wether the Consolidated Fund avoulu not be able to pay the £300,000 borrowed from the Public Works; Account. He would oppose the borrowing ,ot nu» than tAvo million. m^ Sir George Grey refused to do anything of the kind* He said the Public Account Committee had been packed for p»W. purposes Avhen nominated at the eommenw; ment of the session by the late Govern ment. . , Second Bsadiag Agreed to- d Ultimately, the Bill was read a secou time. j j.i,,. n iiffli The Public Revenues Bill passed tnrou. Committee. _ :., ~•_„ o f In Committee on the Consolida^ ; Stock Bill, Six William Fitznerbeitsa£? process Avas desirable, but tiuHame»; opportune. Progress Avas reported. The Counties Act Amendment Bill? read a third time. ~, nQO n The House rose at 1.30 a.m. tui «.. to-day.

' EB- THIS ATTmffISQQK'

GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS, HOKITIKA. The House met at noou. , - f am Mr Barff asked the Government uj will make arrangements for vesi trustees on behalf of the people 01 » H(WB j the building known as Government j» in the town of Hokitika, tegetner v^ portion of reserve on which ]t is w ]i( . He suggested it should be used as » f library and.museum. ~ t t. e (Jo-:: Mr Macandrew, in reply, «|^J jhool* vernment aereed that the properw c r, be converted to the use of the P Hokitika, and would make all the wi inquires to carry this out.

'iBE 1A LMNG STAR, THURSDAY. DECEMBER 6, 1W



7v~S 6\£\ REWARD ke ffITCHKN'S X, JL\J\J BLOOD RESTORER. As several Bottles, containing trashy worth less compounds, have been palmed off on un suspecting people on the pretence of their b*ing the celebrated "Hitchens' Blood Restorer, the Proprietor respectfully cautions his patients to see that the Bottles bear both his Trade Mark and Signature. He also warns the unscrupu lous persons who. under false pretences, receive people's money, that 100 Pounds Eeward will be given on' conviction of persons guilty of infringing his rights. H. HITCHENS. CARPETS, HEARTHRUGS, LINOLEUM, FLOORCLOTH. T. & H. COOKE Beg ton inform their friends and the public that they have imported a large assortment of the above, which will render their FV R NlB SI ' JST G ESTABLISHMENT one of the most complete and extensive in Auckland, having purchased these Goods of the Manufacturers direct, for cash, they are enabled to offer them at VERY LOW PRICES. New Patterns in Carpets and Linoleum. aar ss o w rooms-. 67, Queen-street. - Steam Cabinet Factory Victoria-street. TVRESSES ! DRESSES ! DRESSES W. RATTRAY Has a Large and Well-assorted Stock of DRESSES, In all the Newest Materials and Shades, including ALPACA LUSTRES, in Navy Blub, Dark Brown, and Prune. W. RATTRAY, DRAPER AND SILK MERCER, TVT E W 7EALAND T£J OUS E, 86, Queen-street, Auckland. S'~ T E A M ENGINES. FOR SALE, Cheap, in first-class condition, with certificate for 651bs pressure: 1 Portable, "double cylinders, 9J; 1 Do., Do.. 74; 1 Do.. single cylinder. 10; 1 Do., g^^^g^? TAXATIONAL FIRE AND MARINE JL^I INSURANCE COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND. Capital £1,000,000, Reserve £50,000. Re-Insurance Fund .... £20,000. Insurances effected against Fire and Marine Loss of Every Description of Property, at Lowest Current Rates. Pkompt and Liberal Settlement of Claims. HENRY E. WILLIAMS, Manager, Auckland Branch. At this season of the year, when Nature is so profuse in her adornment, clothing herself in such lovely garments, it naturally inspires the good Housewife with the desire to make her dominion alike attractive. To aid her in this praiseworthy object, the en terprising Furnishing Firm have imported a fresh lot of Carpets, patterns to please every taste, suitable for Drawing, Dining, and Bedroom. Tapestry from 2s lid, Brussels from 4s 9d. The City Hall Arcade is also the Cheapest House in Auck land for really good Furniture, besides having the Greatest Variety to choose from. The largest staff of Workmen in the province aie kept constantly employed by Holloway, Garlick, and Cran well, manufacturing Furniture and Bedding to suit the most economical. Floor Cloths and Linoleum they have always been famous for, and now offer Twenty different patterns to choose from. The Patent Roller Blind only obtainable from Hol loway, Garlick, and Cranwell, Queen-street. —[Advt.l gSShun a3 you would prussic acid the detestable shams which their vendors proclaim as identical with, similar to, or as good as Udolpho Wolfe s Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps. They are all worse than worthless. Very frequently they are sold in bottles which previously contained, the genuine article, which is as agreeable ana remedial as they are nauseous and hurtful.



NEVER lave the Public had such a Choice of BED STEADS offered them as at, the present time! besides our already well assorted Stock of Iron 3edsteads. and those of our own rnanu- , acture in KA^Rr, Roiu. Cedar, and Mottled £auri, we ask them to bear in MIND r h#owe^ND Jlf d° p!^ 3f the most modern style, comprising Frexcii. Hat,f Tester, Children's, and Stvmfs, also Cots, at Prices to suit all classes. Having purchased for Cash from THE Best Manufacturers, we can SELL A GOOD BEDSTEAD at a Very Low Price. BEDDING, of every description, kept in Stock. HOUSES FURNISHED THROUGHOUT at a Short Notice. Our system is to make a large return ; to insure this We Sell for Ready CASH at a Small Profit, and DELIVER GOODS FREE to any part of the Town and Suburbs. $3T Give your Furnishing Order to Holloway, S-aslicls ©s Graawell, CABINETMAKERS, UPHOLSTERERS, AND CLOTHIERS, City Hall Arcade, QUEEN & LORNE-STREETS, AUCKLAND. UNION INSURANCE COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND. CAPITAL £2,000,000. AUCKLAND BRANCH: QU-EEN-S T R E E T, Nest the Colonial Bank. FIRE DEPARTMENT. Insurances granted on Dwelling-houses, Stores. Shops, Buildings in which trade is carried on, Merchandise, and Goods of every description. MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers, Merchandise of all kinds, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at Lowest Current Rates. R. H. STEVENSON Manager. TW-OW IN THE PRESS. To Be Published in a Few Days, A NEW MAP OF THE NORTH ISLAND, Showing boundaries of Counties compiled from the latest Government Surveys, containing over 1800 names of places, rivers, &c. Engraved and Lithographed by Schmidt and Co., Vulcan Lane and High-street. fVN THIS DAY AND DURING THE WEEK, we will snow PIT S 10,000 "5" FASHIONABLE DRESS GOODS AND fgr PRINTS. ~m REDUCED TO HALF PRICE IN ORDER TO CLEAR. J. COSGRAVE & CO., QUEEN-STREET. JAMES ADAMS, WATCHMAKER, VICTORIA-STREET. A FEW DOORS ABOVE ALBERT-STREET. Work done well and cheap :—Watch Glasses, 6d.; Watch Key 3, 3d.; Watch Cleaning, Lever, 45.; Geneva, 3s. 6d.; Watch Hands, 6d. each. Good Warranted Silver Geneva Watches, price £2 53., in case. . N.B .—lf work is not done satisfactorily, no charge will be made. THE undersigned are now brin ing forward a Larcre Parcel of GENE AL DRAPERY, HABERDASHERY, &c, bought at considerably less than usual prices, to which they invite the attention of all requiring Good Value For Money. Corsets in great variety of quality and style, white and coloured, from 2/6 per pair Linen and Lace Goods, Cufts, Collars, and Set 3, in variety . Ladies' Underclothing Umbrellas and Parachutes, Silk, Zanella, Alpacca, &c. . Lot of Flowers at very low price, quite fresh Straw Hats, Ribbons, Gloves, &c. A Splendid Stock of Muslin, Lace, and Lenoe Curtains, Counterpanes. Quilts, Damask Table Cloths, Sheeting, Felt Squares Carpets, Floorcloth, China Matting, Ticks, &c. Large-size Huckaback Towels at /6 each New Fancy Dress Materials, Japanese Silks, Coloured Lustres, Black Lustres, Embossed, Striped, and Check Muslins, Prints, &c. Brown Holland, from /6i per yard Union, Fancy Jean, and Oxford Shirtings, very A line*? Superior Quality Silk Mixed Fancy Shirting, at 2/3, usual price 3/6 per yard White and Grey Calico. Good Grey from /3 per yard Also, A very large assortment of Gents' Shirts, White Longcloth, Union and All-wool Crimean, Fancy Silk Mixed Scotch Twill, Fancy Jean, Oxford, &c. Strong Tweed for Boys wear A Job Line of Stout Mosgiel at below Factory THTIC6S Braces, Belts, Ties. Scarfs, Collars, Cotton and Merino Hosiery, Undershirts, &c. Leghorn, Tuscan, Straw, and Drill Hats, for ..— Boys and Men, &c, &c, &c. H In he £ allowed on all Cash Purchases of J2os. and upwards. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN, Junction Drapery Warehouse, sUpper Queen-street, auckland.



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