SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

cttptt w*ti?i? * Tins Afternoon, 511 HIGH WAlaK— -, Tomorrow Morning, 5.39 SUN SET.—This Evening. 7.12 SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning. 4.43 • MOON'S AGE.-FuUMoon. 20th, 11.30 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

S.R. Lyman, barque, A. Kinicnam, ixuui new York via Port Chalmers Southern Cross, s.s., from Napier.

DEPARTURES.

Taupo, s.s., Carey, for Russell Peari, ketch, Loverock, for Friendly Islands Hauraki, p.s., Oakes, for Raglan

IMPORTS.

Per s s Taupo from the south: 13 cases bacon and ham.—T. H. Hall and Co* Per S R. Lyman. from .New York, via Port Chalmmrs:— 2 packages egg - beaters, 4 cases sPades 3± cases and 9 kegs nails, 1 case snaths, ""case 'rakes. 41 cases hardware, 3 cases wire <rood« 12 cases wringers, 8 case 3 machinery, 1 rpse drills, 13 stoves, 1 package rings, 12 racks v>e& drills 5 packages and 7 cases agricultural implements, 2,150 cases kerosene oil, 80 do. tur pentine t do. winches. 5 racks churns, 1 case iwnsa^e fillers, 2 do. forks, i packages pumps, lo ™"pr stone 2 do. boring machines, 3 do. electro- Tilntp "> do seed sowers, 100 boxes, 400 cases tobacco 950 barrels resin. 42 do shoe pegs, 96 cases medicines 10 do., plantation bitters. 1 do. farrne, 2do lv-inted matter. 5 packages of 50 cases signs, 5 do'merchandise, 1 rack machinery, 2 cases Anodes 9 cases handles, 2 .do. hammers, 1 do. attachments, 39 do. axes, 3 do. scales, 5 racks hprdware. 3 cases hardware. 3 packages glass, 2(lr.ackases washboards, 9 cases clothes baskets, 2 Do\e3 rolling pins, 5 cases broom handles, 2 do. broom, 100 boxes clothes pins, 50 barrels oil Caper" SB L yman, from New York: 250 cases kerosene 50 do. turps, 13 do. stoves, 12 racks seed drills. 100 boxes clothes' pegs, 2 cases eW-bearers, 6 do. spades, 6 do. nails, 9 kegs nails 1 case scythe handles, 1 do. garden rakes. 3 do. wire-ware, 12 do. wringers. 1 do. wrenches, 5 racks churns, 1 case sausase fillers, 2 do. hay forks, 1 do. pumps, 2 do. seed-sowers. 3 do. electro-plate, 14 do. handles, 2 do. hammers, 39 do axes. 3 do. scales, 3 do. glass, 20 bundles washboards, 9 do. clothes' baskets, 2 cases rolling pins, 2 do. brooms, 2 do. rules and lev«ls7 5 o. fancy brackets, 1 do. drills, 8 do. rae&tcutters, 10 do. ferneries and aquariums, 2 do. boring bits, 3 do. tools, 2 do. bench screws, 10 do scythe stones, 5 do. oilstones, 2 do. trucks, 0 do. truck wheels, 8 do. la'he and scroll saws, 1 do attachments, 5 racks hardware, 5 pkgs agricultural implements. 1 do. rings, 2G cases "'notions."—E. Porter & Co. , 500 cases kerosene oil, 15,668 pieces roofing sKtes 10 x IS, 27. 744 do., 10 x 20, 7600 pieces do. sea-green. 10 x 20,17 cases cotton goods.—Owen 6 Graham.

The ss Southern Cross] arrive_i to-day from Napier via the Thames, where her cargo of 64 head tattle and 350 sheep for Messrs Fisher \he barque S. R. Lyman entered at the Cus °Tiie s.s. Rotorua is due from Napier at 8 o'clock The cutter Ness weich arrived from the East Coast yesterday, brought up 60 bales of wool and a "quantity of maize. The wool has been transhipped intr the ship Famenoth. The whaling ship Califorman has arrived at Mongonui with 500 barrels sperm oil obtained since June last. . , . , The barque Mary Ann Annison which cleatect at Melbourne for this port on the 6oh intt. has on boaTd the following: Cargo-20 crates bottles, 3 pkgs hops, 50 cases sarspanlla, 50 cp-ses bottled stout, 37 qr.-casks port wine, 56 cases geneva, 1,100 pkges sugar, 25 bundles brooms, S baskets glassware, 10 cases and 200 baas bark, 270 pieces dressed bluestone. The New Zealand Shipping Company s vessel Lorraine, Capt. Smith, irom London to this port, brings the following- passengers :—Saloon: Mr Alex. T. Hay and "Mr Cecil H. Vernon. Second cabin : Mr and Mrs William M. Burton, Miss Rosis Burton, Mr A. Stewart, and Miss Mary Ann Builer. Steerage: Thos. Bridson, Anne Bridson, Eleanor Bridson, Maria Bndson, W. H. Gillard, S. J. Williams, John Redgrave. Louisa Redgrave, Hannah Curtis, Joseph Tattersall, Matilda Shayler. Charles bhayler, Florence Shayer, Andrew Mailer, Mrs Mailer, Andrew Mailer, Thomas Tyzack, Charles Kimberley, Kate Kimberley, Matilda Kimber ley Winifred Kimberley, Catherine Kimberley, Mary McQuillian, and James Hunter. The s.s, Rotomahana having been repaired af tar her recent accident resumed her running to the Thames this morning at half-past eleven o'clock. Return tickets at reduced rates are advertised by the proprietor. , The s.s. Rotoitoi will commence running at once between Auckland and Shortland. The p.s. Hauraki left the Manukaufor Ruglan yesterday afternoon. The barque May Queen is advertised as Messrs. Shaw, Savill. and Co/s next vessel for London to follow the Famenoth. The Glenlora which was announced for this port, is now on her way to Canterbury. The s.s. Rotorua is expected this evening from Napier and the South, and is to sail for Sydney to-morrow. The s.s. lona did not take her departure for Russell last evening owing to it being discovered that the newly-fixed blade of the propeller was not securely fastened. She sailed this morning. g|The barque S. R. Lyman arrived in harbour yesterday afternoon, after a passage of 12 days from Port Chalmers. She is a smart barque of 600 tons register, and brings a part cargo ef Yankee notions. She is consigned to Messrs. Owen and Graham. We are sorry to learn that Captain Pinkham sustained a loss on the passage by the death of his iafant child, aged 17 months, through dysentery. Dr. Philson, the Health Officer, was sent to pass the snip as soon as she arrived. After examination, he gave her a clean bill of health. A seaman named Charles Stanley, of the schooner Eliza Firth, was drowned at Grey mouth ye3terday.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Matt.s will Close as Undkr: For Thames, to-morrow, -at 11 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel. per Durham, to-morrow, at 11.30 a.m.; and per Argyle, on Friday next, at 2.30 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Argrle, this day, at 1 p.m. Per s.s. City of Sydney, on .Wednesday next, as follows: - For Sandwich Wands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 11 a.m. For Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 11 a.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 9.30 a.m. Late letters, bearing an extra fee of 6d, in addition to the postage, will bo received by the mail agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. For Australian Colonies, per Rotorua, to-mor row, at 1 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at noon. Late letters till 1.20 p.m. For Russell, per Champion, to-morrow, at 2 p.m. For Whitiangi, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowena, to-morrow, at i p.m. For Waiwera, Warkworth, and Te Aral, per Anne Milbank. on Thursday next, at 10 a.m. For Tauranga, GisbOi-ne, Napier, and Southern Provinces, per Taupo, on Thursday next, at 9 p.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Wellington, on Monday next, at 7 p.m. N.B.—Mails despatched to Waitemata Mills, Helensville, and all Offices in the Kaipara Dis trict, will close at this Office at 12.50 p.m., in stead of at noon, as heretofos". S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster.

BIRTHS.

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

MATTHEWS.—On the loth instant, at Idaho Cottage, Collingwood-street, the wife of Wm. Matthews of a son.

MARRIAGES.

TUDEHOPE—KEANE.—On the 12th Decem ber, at the United Methodist Free Church, by the Rev. R. Taylor, Robert, fourth son of the late R. Tudehope.to Agne3, youngest daughter of B. Keane, both of Auckland.

PHILIP—KELL.—On the 13th December, at the residence of the bride's parents, by the Rev. Dr. Wallis? Andrew Philip to Elizabeth Susan, eldest daughter of Mr. David Kell, of this city.—Timaru papers please copy.

MAHONEY—TONG.—On the 15th December, at the Registrar's Office, Auckland, New Zea land, Thomas, eldest son of the late T. Mahoney, of Onehunga, to Alma Ellen, second daughter of Mr. C. T. Tong.

DEATHS.

BBLLINGHAM.—On the 18th December, 1877, at his residence, Picton-street, W. Bellingham, in his 67th year. The funeral will leave Picton-street at 3.30 p.m. to-morrow (Wednesday). Friends please accept this invitation. HANLON.—On 17th December, at her father's residence. Great North Road. Ann, the beloved daughter of Joseph and Rose Hanlon, aged 8 years. The fianeral will leave her late residence to-morrow (Wednesday), 19th instant, at 3.30 p.m. Friends are respectfully invited.

HEMUS.—On the 18th December, at Hobson street, Leonard Grey Hemus, aged 6 months. The funeral will leave the residence of his father, Mr. George Hemus, Upper Hobson street, to-morrow (Wednesday), 19th instant, at 3.30 p.m. Friends are invited to attend.

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

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 1877.

for tfee cause that lacks assistant:*, for the wrong that needs lesisUoco, For the future in the distance, Awl tin good that ire caa «S»

We hope the citizens of Auckland will unite to-morrow afternoon in rendering the reception a brilliant success. The Reception Committee have done, and could do, little more than arrange the preliminaries ; it rests with the people to supply that great popular ovation which would prove most gratifying to Sir George Grey. It is not bunting and tinsel, but strong British lungs and the presence of thousands of citizens, that should give character to the reception. The landing takes place at halfvpast four o'clock in the afternoon, and it is to be hoped that employers will close their premises and liberate their employes in time to take part in the demonstration. No excuse should prevent anyone who sympathises Avith the great cause, of which Sir George Grey is the recognised exponent, from being present. It is need less for us here to recapitulate those services to Auckland, which are "familiar as household words." One act, the colonialisation of the land fund, by relieving this part of the colony from the Treasury bills wrongfully charged against it, together with the votes of £130,000 to be spent in the Provincial District of Auck land during the current year, is a gain of up wards of £400,000 to this province. There are, now as always, a few carpers, who would, no doubt, rejoice if to-morrow's event were a failure. It rests with the people either to disappi- <nt or gratify them. The display is to be a ] irelyjvoluntary one, and most valuable becav c of its spontaneous and simple character. In another column is given the programme that will be carried

out; bufeit remains with the great mass of our citizens to stamp it with their presence and approval.

An analySis of the "legislation of the last sesbion discloses two or three facts which must be of interest to; the politician. We find from a listof the Bills that altogether one hundred and thirty-six Acts were passed, forty-nine only of which were of a colonial character. The remainder were local measures, and many of them mere vestry Bills. The first results of the Abolition of the Provincial Legislatures has been to throw upon the Colonial Par liament the minor legislation of which it was formally relieved, and with which in its present shape it is ill-fitted to deal. It may reasonably be expected that as the Colonial Legislature makes progress from year to year in the passing of comprehensive Consolidation Bills, the pressure of this purely local legislation will be reduced to a minimum, but" before that happy result has been achieved it may be necessary for Par liament to devise some kind of buffer be tween itself and measures which fritter away the time of the House in wearisome discus sions upon matters which more properly come within the province of some County Council ;or Road Board. The numbsr of local bills passed, relating to the different Provincial Districts was as follow : Otago and Southlaud, 29, Canter bury 12, Wellington 11, Auckland 9, Nelson 5, Taranaki 4, Westland 3, Marlborough, 2. The subjects of the colonial Acts passed during the late session are as follow : — Financial, 5; lands, 12; mining 4; education, 1; Public Health and Sanitary, 4; Dis qualification, 1; Provincial laws, 1; census, 1; Industrial and Provident Societies, 1; Friendly Societies, 1; Municipalities, 1; Fine Arts, 1; Bankers, 1; legal profession, 2; agricultural and pastoral, 2; pensions, 1, stamps, 1; Railways and Public Works, 2; Public Libraries, 1; Marine and Seam en, 2; Counties, 1; Destitute Persons,, 1; Immi gration and Public Works,l ; Domiciles, 1. The several Acts are too many and various to particularize. ■

An accident occurred about two o'clock this afternoon in Queen-street which fortunately.resulted in nothing more serious than the smashing of an express waggon. Nobody seems to know how it happened, but it appears that ail old man named Renwick, an expressman living in Freemans Bay drove his express against another express in charge of Mr Symes. The concussion threw Kenwick out on to the road, com pletely doubled up, the horse, "meanwhile, bolting down the street at a furious rate, and only coming to a stand at the bottom of Wyndham - street. Mr Symes' express had both shafts broken, and was otherwise considerably damaged. A con stable took charge of the runaway. Ren wick was carried into the Thistle Hotel, where he Jay insensible some time. Eventually, the great pains taken by Mr Keane and Mr D. Bloom with others, re sulted in restoring consciousness, when the man was enabled to go home with assist ance.

An error occured in the published accounts of the late melancholy occurrence at Shelly Beach. The girl did not go to Mrs Hopkins from Mrs Quick's with the clothes to be mangled, those having been sent in the middle of the week. She asked permission to go round to Mrs Henderson's, and left the house ostensibly with that object. It appears that she called at Mrs Hopkins'instead of going to Mrs Hendersons'. The girl, both before leaving Mr Quick's and at Mrs Hopkins', appeared cheerful and lively, and so far as appearances went, had not then the most remote intention of destroying herself. The statement in the " Herald " that the young man Bovare is a billiard-marker at the Ponsonby Club Hotel is also untrue. There is no billiard table at the hotel.

The officers of Lodge Waitemata, No., 657, E. C, were installed in the lodge-room Princes-street, last evening. Amongst those present were the Pi. W. D. G. M. Brother Graham, P.M.S., Brother P.M. Lodder, 689, E.C., who officiated as Installing Master; J. H. Burns, Director of Ceremonies ; C. F. Goldsbro', W. R. Hayward, W. H. Skinner, H. G. Wade, W. L. Mitchell, and Rev. C. M. Nelson,, W. M., Lodge 1335, Prince of Wales, E. C, G. Rcdfern, W. M., 421, United Service, and Rrother Fleming, P. M. ; Lodge St. Andrew, Bro. T. Cole, the Worshipful Master elect, was duly installed with usual ceremonies, Avith the following officers : — Bro. Warren, P. M.; Brother J. S. Hats wellS. W. ; Bro. W. A. Fenton. J. W. ; Bro. H. G. Wade, treasurer; Bro. J. H. Burns, secrotary. The installation of the jnnior officers was postponed until a future meeting. Bro. G. S. Graham, R.W.D.G.M. then delivered an eloquent charge to the officers and brethren. The Lodge having been closed, the brethren sat down to an excellent banquet provided by Bro. Hood. After the brethren had done justice to the viands, the following toasts were drunk : "The Queen and Craft and H.R.H. the Prince of Wales, M.W.G.M. of the English Constitution" ; "The Grand Masters of the Irish and Scotch Constitutions"; "The D.G.M."; "The newly-installed W.M."; '•The Immediate P.M., Bro. Warren"; " Bro. Lodder, the Installing Master"; "The Officers of Lodge Waitemata"; •{ Visiting Brethren" ; " Lodge St. Andrew" ; " Lodge Sir Walter Scott." The toast of the "Host and Hostess" was duly honoured. The proceedings were enlivened with numerous songs and . a very pleasant evening was spent by all present.

A number of letters to the Editor, and a quantity of other matter will be found in the last page of this issue. On the same page is recorded the story of Georgina's baby, a local romance of more thrilling interest than either " Ginx's Baby," "Helen's Babies," or any other babies whatever to whomsoever belonging.

An open meeting of the Star of Newton Lodge is to be held in the Newton Hall on Thursday evening next, at 7.30.p.m., when a splendid programme will be pre santed. A rehearsal was held last evening in the Newton Hall. No charge will be made for admission.

An Australian telegram of yesterday says :—Young Hanlon, of Toronto, cham pion of the Dominion of Canada ; has put in a claim for the honor- now held by Edward Trickett. The American is con sidered a good oarsman, having won the Centennial contest and beaten the cham pion of New Brunswick. _ Trickett will accept the challenge, but it is expected that Hanlon will row Courtney, the United Slates champion, before coming out to row Trickett.

At a meeting of residents of Eden Crescent yesterday evening in the Eden Vine Hotel, Mr J. W. Suiter in the chair, to consider the question of obtaining a supply of water from the Kyber Pass Reservoir, the chairman said he had made a calcu lation as to the cost of the pro posed Avater supply, as follows : — For 6-inch piping from the reservior (Kyber Pas 3) to his brewery would cost £225 ; for 4-inch piping, £157 ; for 2-inch piping, £56 ss; and for lj-inch piping, £38 19s 3d. He thought the Council should supply the district at a cost of 9 per cent, on the rents. After some discussion, Mr Ewington and the Chairman were appointed a deputation to ascertain what the residents in the neighbourhood were willing to contribute towards obtaining a water supply ; also that a deputation wait on |the City Council to ascertain the terms upon which the watar would be supplied ; and also to wait upon the District JBoard, in order to ascertain what assistance they will give, urging, at the same time, the erection of a standpipe and a drinking fountain. Th^ Chairman brought under the notice of the meeting the necessity of making some representation to the Government, with a view; of obtaining a portion of the money voted in aid of local bodies for the abatement of the nuisance at the pond. Mr Ewington said the representa tion would come with more effect from the local board, andtlie matter, therefore, dropped. A vote of thanks to the Chair man ended the meeting.

Mr Josiah Martin's polytechnic entertain ment will take place to-morrow (Wednes day) evening in the Choral Hall. This model entertainment will be especially interesting to young men and v omen who desire further knowledge of the world and its marvels. We will guarantee that an hour in the Choral Hall will be profitably spent to-morrow evening. There will be an exhibition of microscopes, telescopes, chemical, electrical, and other scientific apparatus, with illustrative experiments, and an explanatory lecture on the same by a competent scientist. The astronomical pictures will be familiarly explained by Professor Lambert, and the botanical selec tions by a well-known local botanist. The musical selections will be under the cele brated organist, Martin Swallow; a popular lecture, " Round the World by Lime-light," by Mr Martin, whose abilities as a lecturer are well-known ; and a series of dissolving views by Mr Crook. Hence young persons will have an opportunity of adding to their stock of knowledge in relation to the realms of matter and mind ; and as every feature of nature thrills with music, so will this enter tainment be full of sweet sound.

A public meeting will be held'to-morrow evening in the United Methodist Free Church, Pitt and Vincent-streets, in aid of the Missionary Fund. The chair will be taken at eight o'clock ; music and hymns by the choir, and addresses by the Revs. Messrs Dutton, Kirk, CaygilL- and Messrs French and Cole.

The monthly inspection of the Victoria Company of Auckland Volunteers will be held in the Drill-shed to-morrow evening at the usual hour. Members to appear in full dress with arms, etc.

The liabilities of William Henry Broad bent, draper and clothier, of Wangarei, a bankrupt, were set down at .£435 15s 6d, assets £375.

The inhabitants of Otahuhu will hold their annual public ball to-morrow evening in the district hall. The hall will be opened at half-past seven, o'clock, and dancing will commence precisely at eight o'clock.

Mr George Sibbin will offer for sale at his corner mart to-morrow (Wednesday) the hull of the cutter Sydney, as she now lies on the beach near Cabbage Bay.

.The Telegraph Commissioner, in response to a petition from some of the newspaper proprietors, has agreed to keep the telegraph oifices open until 10 p.m. every night. The new regulation is to come into force on the Ist January next.

Mr and Mrs Morton Tavares appeared last evening in the Masonic Hall, One liunga, and met with a favourable recep tion. The pieces represented were the pretty comedy of "The Happy Pair," the quarrel scene from Sheridan's " School for Scandal," and " Nothing to Wear," adapted from Butler's American poem on the sub ject. These excellent performers have engaged to appear at Nelson for several consecutive evenings, and started for that city to-day.

Our morning contemporary is behind the times this morning. A local in its news columns informs us that Tip to a late hour last night no tidings had been received of the arrival of Sir George Grey at the Kawau. Very likely it is true that the news had not reached the " Herald," but that "no news " had been received is con trary to fact. A telegram reached us at 4 o clock in the afternoon, announcing the arrival of the Hinemoa at the Kawau, and we were enabled to publish the tenor of it in our last night's issue. How it was, under the circumstances, that the "Herald" did not have a "special" message to the same effect we cannot say.

Messrs Somerville, evangelists, are expected to arrive in Auckland next month.

At a meeting of the Victoria Company last evening, Captain Derrom read a chal lenge from the Thames Scottish Volunteers to lire a match at Auckland on the 29th instant, for any sum of money. : It was agreed that the challenge should be accepted, but that no money should be fired for. Captain Derrom was instructed to reply to that effect. At the Rifle Range yesterday morning, four members of the Victorian Company fired for the Ladies' Prize, in addition to those who competed on Saturday. The highest fscore made was by Volunteer J. Leigh, and is four points higher than that made by Volunteer Bowden on Saturday last. He is therefore the winner of the trophy. The firing was at 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 yds., 3 shots at each range. Some dissatisfaction has been caused -by the fact that no officer was m command, and the scores were kept by one of the competitors. The following were the scores made :—Volunteer J. Leigh, 50 ; Volunteer J. VV. Leigh, 39 ; Volunteer Hood. 39 . Volunteer L. Eady, 35^

The work of erecting a bridge over the Waipaoa River has been commenced. Those who desire to be the first to accord a hearty welcome to Sir George Grey to morrow will have an opportunity Jof pro ceeding down the harbour at 3 p.m. in the Takapuna, which will leave the Ferry T. at 3 o'clock in the afternoon to meet the Hineiv oa.

A fire in Messrs Guthrie and Larnach's store, Dunedin, yesterday, did damage to the extent of about £1,000. The store contained a large quantity of kerosene and gunpowder, and the last keg of powder was actually on fire before it could be removed. The building and stock were insured in the Victoria for £3,600.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS EXAMI NATIONS.

The Christmas examinations of the schools of the Sisters of Mercy, were held to-day. There are three of these schools, one being the school of St. Joseph, for children of the lower middle class ; another the Infant school of St. Aloysius, and the third the Select school of St. Frances de Sales, or higher school. These schools have deservedly attained a high reputation for their system of instruction, and for the soimd education bestowed upon the pupils by the Sisters of Mercy, who are the teachers.

SijfAt' half-past ten the Very Rev Father Fynes, V.G., the Lady Superioress, and the Rev Fathers Walter McDonald, Paul, Grainge, and O'Dwyer. entered the St. Joseph's School-room, and the examination at once began; the pupils, to the number of| about seventy girls, being seated oh forms in the centre of the room. The examination was conducted orally by one of the Sisters and was eminently successful in proving that the pupils had a well grounded Knowledge of the subjects in which they were exercised. At the con clusion of the examination, 'a party of young ladies belonging to the St. Frances of Sales Select School came in and sung some part music very prettily. The Very Rev. Father Fynes after this addressed, the scholars, congratulating them and the teachers upon the proficiency displayed. The Very rev. gentleman then went at some length into the benefit of religious instruction being commingled with their school studies. Although the tendency of the age was against this,, he was convinced it was the proper system. It had the recommendation of antiquity : for it Avas the custom of the Romans, Greeks, and Persians to introduce, religion very largely into their studies. It would be a great blessing for New Zealand if parents could bejbrought to rear up their children wtthin the influence of religion, which was well calculated to qualify both to command and to obey. Now, no sooner was a young man let loose in the world than he thought himself en titled to think and act for himself, without having any fixed principles. He trusted they would store up what he had said. He now wished them all success.

A large number of prizes and gifts were then distributed.

The children having sung " God Save the Queen," the examination was closed.

THE INFANT SCHOOL,

Immediately after the examination of the school of St. Joseph, the party of clergy adjourned to the neighbouring infant

school of St. Aloyissius, where the little ones, girls and boys, were put through their facings in a similar manner. They acquitted themselves uncommonly well, and some of the recitations were quite as good as those by the S. Joseph scholars. The youngsters looked very pretty in their blue and white dresses, and maintained the most orderly behaviour throughout. There are about 120 scholars in this school, aad we are bound to state that their attain ments for children of such tender years are in many cases perfectly astonishing. One little fellow of nine for instance dilated upon the use of the globes from memory for five and twenty minutes by the clock, while another little chap who could scarcely toddle gave a warlike speech,which was followed by immense applause. THE SELECT SCHOOL. The examination of thi< school began at half-past two o'clock, and was of a more elaborate character than the others. The schoolroom was prettily decorated with banners, maps, and pictures, the work of the,young lady pupils, and a large number of visitors occupied the body of the apartment. The proceedings began as in the other instances by a . nicely-Avoided address, in this case delivered by Miss E. Craig. The following programme was gone through:— First Class: Introduction, " Oberon," Miss Minetti ; address, Miss, Craig ; song, "Her Bright Smile"; catechism; quar tette,- "Ireland," Misses Craig, Buckley, O'Connor, and Lynch ; astronomy ; reci tation, "The slave's dream," Miss Fordham; physical geography; "Juanita," Miss Martin ; solo, " Irish Diamonds," Miss Craig ; grammar, syntax ; , chorus, "Far away"; Grecian history; duet, "Elfin Call"; trio, "Grand Duchess," Misses Craig, Martin, Fordham, har monium, Miss Minetti. Secona Class : Reading; recitation, " The Arab's farswell," Miss - Craig ; " Golden Waves," Miss Buckley ; mental arithmetic; " Farewell to Caledonia," Missj Ramsay ; New Zealand ; " The Collier's Child," Miss Brophy ; English history : " Farewell to France," Miss Ramsay and Mdlle. Laurent; trio, " Sonnambula," Misses Craig, Minetti, and Martin, harmonium Miss A. Craig; French dialogue. spelling bee ; solo, Miss Lynch ; drama, " The Lawsuit." God Save the Queen ! The result of the ordeal passed by the young ladies could not bs considered other wise than satisfactory. The French dialogues were distinguished for accuracy of accent and good delivery, and the declamation was generally good. The musical selections were of a high class, and were artistically executed. The two Sisters who superintended this school seemed to possess the entire control and confidence of their pupils, who shewed great alacrity in obeying their behests. At the finish of the examination, the Very Rev Father Fynes made a short congratulatory speech, and " God Save the Queen" was sung. The following samples of the lady pupils' fancy work fare decidedly worth inspection:—A beautiful representation, in Berlin wool, of Joseph presenting his father to Pharoah, by Miss Julia Hansen ; wreath, with landscape, in chalks, by Miss Craig; wreath,* with landscape, in chalks, by Miss Fordham ; map by Miss M. Hansen, chalk ; chalk drawing by Miss Sarah Craig; map by Miss Julia Hansen ; poll screen (Berlin wool) by Miss Fordham. We should mentiou that the pupils of this school are of all denominations, and the average attendance is about forty.

SCHOLARSHIPS EXAMINATION.

The Scholarships Examination in City East was continued to-day. The children "were examined in various subjects. Th e following are the names of the competitors . OPEN SCHOLARSHIPS. Auckland College and Grammar School, 7 candidates—John Arneil, aged 15 ; H. J. Haultain, aged 15 ; A. C. Lawiy, aged 15 ; C. C. MacCormick, aged 15; W. McDowell, aged 15; Ernest Robertcn,- aged 14; Herbert Steadman, aged 15. Church of England Grammar School 1 candidate—Ernest Clifton Beale, mged 15. DISTRICT SCHOLARSHIPS. Auckland City East, 24 competitors— Joseph Blakey, aged 14 ; Edgar JBowring, 13 ; Frank Burton, 12; Hugh Forrest, 15 ; William Forrest, 12 ; Daniel Garnaut, 15 ; James Hamond, 14; William Henderson, 14; E. H. S, Hill, 15; Francis Holmes, 13 ; Audley Jones, 14; Robert McPherson, 13; Charles Niccol, 14; William Norrie, 15 ; Lucius O'Brien, 13; Frederick Ohlson, 12; Thomas Otway, i 3 ; Jackson. Palmer, 15; George Paul, 12; Sydney Phillips, 14; Edmund Purdie, 15 ; Andrew Robertson, 14; John Smart, 13; Jo-eph R. Sykes, 13. Auckland City West No. 1, 2 com petitors—Ernest Brabazon, aged 14 ; Her bert Brabazon, aged 12. City West No. 2, 1 competitor—Walter Lambourne, aged 13. Newton East, 4 competitors—James Blackwood, aged 12 ; Thomas Hobson, aged 16 ; John Pitkethley, 12; William Wheatcroft, 12. . Devonport, 3 candidates—Charles Bailey, aged 13; Evnest Bailey, aged 12; Henry Wyles, aged 14. Paparoa, 2 candidates —J. W. Gittos, aged 15; Harry Haszard, aged 15. Otara, 1 candidate—J. M. Lason, aged 14. Mount Hobsou, 2 competitors—J. W. Rvburn, aged 13; R. M. Ryburn, aged 12. Tauranga, 1 competitor—Henry McKel lar, aged 13. Driving Creek, 2 competitors.—T. D. Luks, aged 13 ; Thomas Warner, 13. Whau, 1 competitor.—Richard Bollard, aged 14. Onehunga, 6 competitors.—Jas. Bovren, aged 12 ; Colin Bissett, aged 13 ; Abraham Israel, aged 13; James Matbieson, aged 12 ; James Watts, aged 12 ; Thomas Means, 13. Maiori, 1 competitor.—J. T. Spargo, aged 15. Aratapu, 1 competitor.—Joseph Harden, aged 12. CERTIFICATES OF PROFICIENCY. ' The following are the candidates for certificates of proficiency :— City West, No. 1, 3 competitors.—Ellen Blaydes, aged 14 ; Eliza Fielder, aged 14; Alice Pettitt, aged 16. Newton. East, 4 competitors. —Geo. Black wood, aged 10 ;J. W. Brown, 11; Elizabeth Phipps, "10 ; D. T. Taylor, 11. Auckland City West, No. 2, 1 com petitor.—Ellen Gaze, aged 14. Mauku, 1 competitor.—Charlotte Finlay, aged 12. Onehunga, 1 competitor.—Esther Gill, aged 12. Ponsonby", 1 competitor.—Frank Good acre, aged 11. Devonport, 1 competitor.—Elizabeth Patterson, aged 12. Mrs Shayle George's private school, 1 competitor.—Una Lawford.

THE SIR GEORGE GREY RECEP TION.

The reception executive committee met this afternoon at Dr Lee's residence, Albert street, Dr Lee presiding. After some pre liminary conversation, it was decided specially to reserve the dress circle of the Theatre Royal for ladies and ladies accom panied by gentlemen, and to open this part of the theatre at a quarter-past seven o'clock, it was further determined to admit none but adults.

The secretary (Mr J..King) informed the committee that Sergeant Major Haslem had informed him that Major Lusk had sent to the Defence Minister to allow the Auckland volunteers to take pai-t in the reception.

The bands of the Artillery and Hobson companies have consented to play suitable selections on the occasion. The com mittee will also make provision for the reception of Auckland and country members of the legislature. The secretary was authorised to see Inspector Thomson respecting the placing of constables. These were the principal matters before the meet ing, the details and order of procession were

ucxug ui&uußseu as we went to wesa n~ ""' M . cpmmitte.e had at the previous'rno *• The ;'■ commended the landing of Sir (£? ln£ re" at the wharf at 4-30 tomorrow Slfi 1*? Cole; Thomson, and Smithi a I M-eS3rs to see to the erection of two ? ?P°lnted arches. The co-operation of tradeSv phal fit societies was also invited andfh7 c" sentatives of other public'bodies Tu' address, executed by Mr J ames Slatnr £ he been much admired. «k*w», has It is anticipated that Sir fi. nn , arrive a little before the time staSS number of tradesmen have resolved tn «i < at four. The public receptlou c will commence at eight o'clock irf!?B theatre. Previous to riling the SrnSif 6 passed a vote of thanks to the band? An address will be presented at «, triumphal arch by his Worship the Ma™ on behalf of the Corporation Snd cifc The procession wiU move up the avW • ■ the following order :- P Wharf m Band. - • Sir George Grey ' X.C.8., Pkkmier with friends in a carriage drawn by R^ v horses. SK * Auckland Members in carriages. Band. -'. Mayor and Gity Councillors. "' Harbour Board. Executive Committee. ■ Reception Committee. Licensed Victuallers, and Any Societies who de3ire to join the procession General Public. The procession will proceed up Q uee n street, Grey-street, Pitt-street, into Hobgonl street, and by Victoria-street into Albert street, stopping at the Star Hotel. Mr Dufaur Avas appointed to ■yyait upon Major Lusk in order to ascertain Avhether the volunteers Avill be permitted to take part in the cerinony, and if so, to confer Avith him as to positions they should occupy.

CABLEGRAMS.

AGENT-GENERAL'S TELEGRAM.

CAPTURE OF RAHOVA.

MONTENEGRINS VICTORIOUS.

LONDON, (undated.) Kars was taken after five days' and five * nights continuous bombardment. Plevna is entirely invested, and is ex pected hourly to fall. The Russians suffered a reverse in the Shipka Pass; losing nearly the whole of one cavalry regiment.

The Roumanians have captured Rahova, with a quantity of ammunition and pro visions, and, by a heavy cannonade, sunk a Turkish monitor at Kalifat.

The Montenegrins have been generally victorious. They are now bombarding Lisnoria. There are rumours of mediation..

AUSTRALIAN.

THE POLITICAL CRISIS IN NEW

SOUTH WALES.

MR HUGH GEORGE GOES TO "S.

M. HERALD."

(PRESS AGENCY.)

SYDNEY, December tftk

Mr Farnell has not yet formed a Ministry. Several influential members declined the offer of a portfolio. Mr Hugh George, the manager of the " Argus," shortly assumes an important position in the " Sydney Morning Herald."

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before G. M. Mitford Esq. (chairman), , and C. C. McMillan Es^., Justices of the Peace). "POOR MARIA-" Maria's voice was heard at dead of night, As she was singing " Tommy, lam tight," Maria Badford, a young woman, was charged with being- drunk and disorderly in Abercrombie-street last night. Prisoner hung down her head and pleaded guilty. Sergeant Mulville deposed to prisoner's conduct as being most pugilistic and offensive ; he heard her voice from Welles ley-street. Fined 20s and costs. AN ASPIRING YOUTH. Young Reuben, step by step, desired to climb A rounded ladder up the hill of time. Reuben Conley, a youth, was, charged with stealing a ladder*on the 7th November, value 10s, the property of the Government. A plea of not guilty was put in; the prisoner was nine years old. John Withers, coach-painter at _ the railway-station, stated that he missed the ladder about the 7th of last month. Yesterday he saw the prisoner carrying the ladder along the beach. He spoke to him about it, when he |said it was his' father's ladder. He recognised the ladder by the words " Auck land station," which he wrote upon it. Mr Macdonald, manager of the railway, recogni&ed the ladder as the property of the Government. He gave information to the police. Sergeant Clarke took the boy into custody. He began to cry, and said he found if by a kerosene store. He left it there for some, time, and as nobody seemed to take it, lie took it himself. . . . Thomas Gedge deposed that he rad seen the ladder lying under the k rosene shed for at least a week. The boy took it home until they could'find an owner for it. On being questioned by Sub-Inspector Pardy, witness said he was told by a boy at the Sash and Door Company thattpe ladder had been there for a week. He did not see the writing on it. The ladder was muddy. He could not say that prisoner put it there. . >r • , The Bench was unwilling to send the laa to prison, and gave him good advice on the impropriety of taking things under any cir cumstances, belonging to others. Owing to his youth, however, hoping it would s.be a warning to him in future, he would pc discharged. , , The lad appeared grateful and hastened , out of the dock to his mother, w"> embraced him. WATER PURE WATER. Defendant did not dream of doing wrong By drawing water as he passed along.— Patrick Murphy was charged with unlawnuij drawing water from the stand pipe m custom House-street, on the 10th inst. • . Defendant made a pitiful appeal to the Bencn. : . but as he had taken no less than lockets °i water,"he was subjected to a fine of 23 6d, cosw 53 6d. , feminim; figures. AaetrM A Poor Nancy Quinn was wrath in Symondswtree* And threatened Tilly, which was in^^reet. Ann Quinn, alias Egan, of Symonds-street. was charged with threatening to j» v"£ d Matilda Christopher, the wife of J°a£S?' " transmogrify " her into a Swedish turnip- The promises were made on the I«|* Mrs Quinn deaied that she promised any uuus of the kind. ' , ''.. i, Q i, A yvas Matilda Christopher deposed *hf^ te ned very much abused by defendant; she tnreaieuc to "lallup"her. Mr Cunningham: Did she do it I f «>, o te Complainant: No. She threatened to cm)* me with a table spoon. Clerk: Did she do it? «mis«rt • she Complainant: Oh, no, she only promised, sa then said she would—(unmentionable). „.«_•■■ Defendant: Oh, for shame, for shame, iw oh. how can you tell such— . turn Constable McClellan: Be quiet; your turn PCompiainai 1 t: She swore I should not godo** street any more. Clerk: Did she stop you? nnthiDg. Complainant: Oh, no, she did nouu«* but Tm awfully afraid she wil, as^^ past her J street everyday, herloo^?!,,^^ I want her to be bound over. I can't tell you »" because I'm a Norwegian. . . M he1 Joachin Christopher was sworn, but aa knew nothing of his own knowledge, lie v ordered to stand down. . . h a d ■: ( . Another' witness was called, due *"» { A°nn Quinn gave evidence, and comgter contradicted the statement of the compw^ She had been in the habit of takinsr ™£lL£fc Christopher, butas it was so terribly dooro she refused to take any more, c°nf^f T vf o nnd C. abused her at a fearful rate. She «' m& , fault with the milk. She thought lt.was wr to water the milk.

IBE l^ LIVING STAR, TUESDAY. DECEMBER 18, 1877.



IVi £\£\ HE WARD EE HITCHEN'S 3^-i-l?\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 "Kitchens' Blood Restorer," the Proprietor respectfully cautions his patients to see that the Bottles bear both his Trade Mark asd Signature. He also warns the unscrupu lous persons who, under false pretences, receive people's money, that £100 Pounds Reward ■will be given on conviction of persons guilty of infringing his rights. H. HITCHENS. fi HE A P XX ATS k CHEAP HATS ! ! CHEAP CLOTHING !! A Quantity of Men's and Boy's Drab, and Black Felt Hats will be offered at tar GREAT REDUCTION TO CLEAR. Also, a Parcel of CLOTHING, comprising Men's and Boy's Tweed Suits, Trousers and "Vests, &c. These Goods are slightly soiled, and ■will be sold REALLY CHEAP. w. rattraV, CLOTHIER AND OUTFITTER. \TEW.7EALAND HOUSE, - Auckland. UNION INSURANCE COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND. C A.PITAL £2,000,000. AUCKLA O BRANCH: QUEEN-S T R E E T, Next the Colonial Bank. FIXE 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 owbst Current Rates. R. H. STEVENSON Manager ""VTATIONAL FIRE AND MARINE J3i 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. 4^)N THIS DAY AND DURING THE WEEK, W X WILL SHOW PIEoS ES 10,000 PIE *OES FASHIONABLE DRESS GOODS AND *ar PRINTS. ~m REDUCED TO HALF PRipE IN ORDER TO CLEA.R. J. COSGRAVE & CO., QUEEN-STREET.



mo AGRICULTURISTS &. OTHERS W. J. HURST te CO. have on sale the under mentiened Fertilizers, all of which have been proved to produce satisfactory results in this district. Experience teaches that large and profitable returns can be relied on by a judicious and liberal use of them. The nattering Testi monials from leading Farmers justify W. J. xfurst & Co. in strongly commending them to every Agriculturist:— MALDEN ISLAND GUANO PERUVIAN GUANO MEXICAN do BEJL.L& jaONE FLOUR ~ JandHnch BONEDUST BILL YARD'S No. 1 do. NITRATE OF SODA SULPHATE OF AMMONIA MURIATE OF POTASH SUPER-PHOSPHATE OF LIME. SALT, SULPHATE OF LIME. In addition to the above, W. J. H. & Co. are prepared to supply special Chemical Manures for stimulating weak Corn Crops, and renovat ing Clover-sick Pastures, as well as the Potato and Mangold mixture that last season attracted so much favourable notice. Analysis, prices, and other particulars will be supplied on application at the Stores. W. J. HURST & CO., 161 QUBIN-STREET, CLGVER SEED, FOR SPRING SOWING Just Landed, ex Columbus— 30 casks new Clovers, eousisting of Red Clover White Clover Cow Gras Also on hand. Alsyhe, Timothy, Lucerne, Rape Rats-tail, Rye grass, Cocksfoot, &c, at lowest market rates. W. J. HURST & CO. 101, QUEEN-STREET. 500 sacks Sydney Maize (superior sample) SOOO „ Oats First-class Tartars for Seed, also 800 sacks of 1875 crop hard feed, ■ surpassing any of last season's growth 1200 sacks Canterbury Potatoes, and some early varieties for seed purposes Flour. Bran, Sharps, Chaff, Oilcake, Coal, &c, &c. Particular attention is called to 500 sacks Prime Barley at 4s per bushel O 501b. 5 tons Anderson's Fresh o atmeal, a £21 per ton. W. J. HURST & CO., 101, QUEEN-STREET. AUCKLAND. JNew opring and oummek dress materials. -{H. ATKINS 1- — Has vow for Sale, CHEAP, a Splendi Assort ment of 9M NEW DRESS GOODS, "KB Buitaoie for the Spring and Summer Season of every variety, style, quality, and texture. i| \ \ \ § Attention is respectfully invited to this Season's Shipment, which is the Largest and Best-selected e^er shewn in the city. The Prices are also very reasonable. Also, Just Opened, MANCHESTER GOODS, CALICOES, SHEET INGS, QUILTS, BLANKETS, LONG CURTAINS, TABLE LINEN, &C. A Great Reduction has been made in the Prices of Manchester Goods, owing to the reduced List of the Home manufacturers. NEW SUMMER CLOTHING, SHIRTS, HATS, &c, Just Received. Splendid Lines in Auckland & Melbourne-made CLOTHING. The Largest Stock of MOSGIEL & IMPORTED fcTWEEDS in Auckland to select from. J2T Tailors Supplied at Wholesale Prices GENTLEMEN'S ORDERS EXECUTED. A Large Lot of Cheap Tweeds for Boly's Wear. H. A TI«NS- Gtßand Show OF STJMMER COSTUMES. A. LINABURY & CO. HAVE JUST OPENED UP 486 COSTUMES, Comprising— BLACK SILK COSTUMES . COLOURED SILK COSTUMES JAPANESE SILK COSTUMES HOLLAND COSTUMES FRENCH BATISTE COSTUMES BRAIDED PIQUE COSTUMES FRENCH PRINT COSTUMES CAMBRIC COSTUMES BLACK SILK SKIRTS, with Body Pieces COLOURED SILK SKIRTS, with Bod Pieces . ■ HANDSOME BRAIDED LINEN COS TUMES and SKIRTS, with Body Pieces to match. The above GOODS were purchased at a Heavy Discount off English Invoice, and will be offered to the Public at ENGLISH COST. Inspection Invited. A T INABURY & riO,, 204 & 206, QUEKN-STREET, AUCKEAyD. _______ HEARTHRUGS, LINOLEUM, FLOOBCLOTH. T. & H. COOKE Beg to inform their friends and the public that they have imported a large assortment of the above, which will render their FURNISHING ESTABLISHMENT one of the most complete and extensive in Auckland, having purchased these Goods of the Manufacturers direct, for cash, they are enabled to offer them at VERY LOW PRICES. New Patterns in Carpets and Linoleum. tW -8 HOW R O OM S : 67, Queen-street. Steam Cabinet Factory Victoria-street. NOTICE TO CORRESPONDENTS. Pro Bon© Publico (Parnell).— Certainly ; by the Municipal Corporation Act all meetings of Borough Councils, except Committee meet ings, are open to the ratepayers. Swindlers are putting up imitations of Udol pho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps in bottles which formerly contained that stand ard medicinal beverage, and in many instances labelling their vile compounds with the name of the genuine article. 'This artful imposture is particularly detestable, since it is calculated to rob the sick and debilitated of a genuine source of health and vigor.



THE undersigned are now brin ing forward a Large Parcel of GENE AL DRAPERY, HABERDASHERY, &c, bought at considerably less than usual prices, to which they invite the attention of all requiring Good Value For Money.' Corsets in great variety of quality and style, white and coloured, from 2/6 per pair Linen and. Lace Goods, Cufts, Collars, and Sets, in variety Ladies' Underclothing Umbrellas and Parachutes* Silk, Zanella, f^Arpacca, &c. • Lot of Flowers at very low price, quite fresh Straw Hats, Ribbons, Gloves, &c. A Splendid Stock of Muslin, Lace, and Lenoo 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, &o. Brown Holland, from !bl per yard Union, Fancy Jean, and" Oxford Shirtings, very cheap A Line of Superior Quality Silk Mixed Fancy Shirting, at 2/3, usual price 3/6 per yard White and Grey Calico. Good Grey from /3 per yard Also, very 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 prices Braces, Belt?, Ties, Scarfs, Collars, Cotton and Merino Hosiery, Undershirts, &c. Leghorn, Tuscan, Straw, and Drill Hats, for Boys and Men, &c, &c, &c. In he £ allowed on all Cash Purchases of 20s. and upwards. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN, Junction Drapery Warehouse, Upper Queen-street, auckland. NEVER Have the Public had such a Choice of BED STEADS offered them as at the present time ! Besides our already well assorted Stock of Iron Bedsteads, and those of our own manu facture in Kavrt, Rimu, Cedar, and Mottled Kauri, we ask them to bear in MIND that we have Just Openrd Up, ex •' Otaki.' TWO HUNDRED IRON BEDSTEADS of the most modern style, comprising French. Half Tester, Children's, and Stetmps, 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 Prtce. 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 DELTVKR GOODS FREE to any part of the Town and Suburbs. SST Give your Furnishing Order to Kolloway, G-arlick & Granwell, CABINETMAKERS, UPHOLSTERERS, AND CLOTHIERS, City Hall Akcade, QUEEN & LORNE-STRKETS AUCKLAND.