SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

ARRIVALS.

ona, 8.8.. Farquhar. from the North dinnio [lure, scuoonei*, from Napier

DEPARTURES.

Kowcjul. s.s., Sellars, ior I auranga

Tho schooner DarPTtring wa.s hauled alonpr sidelhe wnnvf. yesterday, and is now open to public inspection. The schooners Blanche o,nd Coronet arc now takirif-r in cargo for the islands. The schooner Minnie Hare has arrived from Napier in ballast. Tho departure of the s.s. Taupo from the MJvnukau for thn South is postponed till Tues daynoxi at noon. Tho advertisement on our front page was printed before the change was notified.' The delay is caused by the detention nf the vossel at Nelson.

[UNKNOWN] POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

>.iv!i.S WU.b Cl-OSK AS UNDKit ! — For Thames, this day, at, 5.30 p.m., and on Monday next, at 2 p.m. '~, , For Coromandei, per Argyle, on Monday next, at, 11.30 ii.m., and per Kina. at 1.30 P.m. For VTaiwora, per Rotomahana, this day, at 2:). m. For Whitianga, per Ocean, this day, at J p.m. For ■•'ort Fitzroy, per "Wanderer, on Monday next, at 11 a.m. For Giaborue and Napier, per Jane Douglas, oil Monday next, at 3 p.m. F.>r Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Taupo, on Tuesday next, at 10 a.m. For money orders and registered letters, and newspapers at 0 a.m. Late letters will be received 1 ill 10.20 For Norfolk Island, per Southern Cross, on or about Wednesday, -ith April. Kote.—A letter receiving box has l:,oon erected at Mr Hatsweli'a store, Princes-street, and is cleared at 8.15 a.m., and 3.15 p.m. S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster.

MARRIAGE.

GILLAND'ER—FRAaER.-On the Bth March, at the residence of the bride's father, Drake street, by the Rev. Dr. Wallis; Charles Gillan der, fourth son of Mr, John Gillander, to Elizabeth, second daughter of Mr. John Fraser, shipwright, both of Auckland.

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 17, 1877.

for the oivse th^t lacks assistnnc*, For tin: v/rcuit; th.it nwls r^sittai'.ce, ;-"or the-futurc in the district, And the enod t»ar we —n ,-ir.

Tub Custom-House cases heard at the Police Court this morning afford a striking example of the manner in which the law may bo .sometimes used as an engine of oppression. In the two cases under notice there was not the slightest evidence of deliberate intention to defraud, or of guilty knowledge. Captain Mollatt and Mr Gouk have been the victims of a sudden resump tion of an arbitrary and inconvenient. regulation, which had been more honoured in the breach than in the observance. The unexpected and invidious selection of these two individuals as the objects in the re assertion of authority which had been allowed to fall into abeyance, savours of something more than mere zeal for the public service. The case presented none of those flagrant characteristics which would have justified the making of an ex ample, but the awaking of the official vigilance bears a suspicious appearance of a capricious desire to exercise a little brief authority. The open and undisguised man ner in winch the harmonium was landed in the presence of a custom-house official, is abundant proof of the absence of any guilty .motive. It is, moreover, asserted and not denied, that the practice had been a common one, and that there was nothing exceptional in this case to mark it down for selection. These facts are suflicient to excite a sus picion that it must have been .something more than mere zeal for the public service that incited these prosecutions, which have led to the detention of the Santiago, (and have entailed considerable annoyance and expense upon Captain .Moilatt and the owners. The fact that Captain Moflatt has been hardly and exceptionally dealt with is fully recognised by the mercantile community of Auckland, who have for warded to him the appended letter, bearing numerous influential signatures. Captain Moifatt is thus freed from any. injurious reflections which might have been fastened upon him by the customs prosecution. While we make these remarks we should be sorry if they Ayere misconstrued into an attack upon either Mr. Hill or the Justices who tried the case. The Collector was bound by the regulations to take offiei:;! i-o-vnixauce ol the facts brought under his notice, and

the defendant having pleafled jiui.Hy the Boncli were equally oomid to ai^imistcv tlic law), $iwgti they marked thciv m\w »{ lbs tvivipl,; nature of thooase by tuilioting

who was the unwitting author of tlie trouble which has befallen Captain Moffatt, by his promise to see that the Customs Regulations were complied with, has recog nize rl iiis responsibility by paving half the line inflicted upon Captain Moiiatt, and the balance has been paid by merchants, who have fowarded the following letter to that gentleman : —

To Captain Moffat, Master, Barque Santiago. Dear Sir,—Before leavin;;- port we are desirous of conveying to you our dcopest sympathy for the unfortunate position you have inadvertently boon placed in, and If possible, by our recognition to prevent any report from tending to your injury in the eyes of .your employers. s-'o far as you arc concerned, we believe there was no intention for one moment lo defraud H.M. Customs, and wo consider the prosecution unjust and tyrannical, inasmuch as the special clause under which you were fined is broken through by nearly every English ship. We beg to hand you a small checquo to assist in defraying expenses.

(Here foilow the names and the subscription list.)

We invite attention to the announcement of Sunday services at the various denom inational' churches of the city. The open ing .services of the New Wei-loyan church, North shore, will be held to-morrow. Rev. W. Kirk will preach in the morning, and Rev. W. J. Williams in the evening. The services for the people will be held as usual in the Theatre [loyal at the stated hour.

Boys are prone to mischief, and especially colonial boys, and nothing within their reach escapes the devastating fingers of youngsters ; even the boards pointing to the Epiphany church of Newton, have not been allowed to remain intact, and their deface ment has induced the church wardens to offer a reward of £1, for information which may load to the detection and conviction of the persons so offending. We hope the vandals may soon be in the hands of justice.

Mr M. y. Danncford, of the Hair Dress ing saloon, Theatre Buildings, lias just received one of Archer's patent chairs, manufactured especially for the profession by the inventor in Wan Francisco. The chair, or "Barber's chair" as Douglas Jerrold would have termed it, is worthy of notice, and made to suit every posture of the human body. The chair is an ingenious piece of work, expensive of course, as its many springs and peculiarities are costly. In i'fc you may sit easily, upon crimson cushions, like* age, meditating on the probabilities of the future, or like a Yankee youth, with the head in any position; and the feet on an equal range. The chair is a most convenient contrivance for a clean shave and a comfortaolo crop.

The Rev. Mr Watt, of the New Hebrides Mission, will preach in St. Luke's Church, Kemuera, to-morrow evening. The Rev. Mr Ingles conducts service in the evening at St. Andrew's, when a collection in aid of the mission fund will be made.

The Rev. W. Harris, who has been labour ing for the last two years in connection'witli the Primitive Methodists in this city,is about to leave to take up the work of the church at Christclmrch.l-ie Avill be succeeded in his ministration here by the Rev. 15..!. West brook of that city. To-morrow will be the last opportunity of hearing the !iev. Harris previous to Ins departure, lie will preach in the morning as pr>r announcement1 at Edwardns-street; afternoon, at Newmar ket ; and evening at Franklyu Road. We sincerity hope that he may be as success ful in his new sphere of labour as he has been here.

It was mentioned in n late Austrnlinn telegram that Messrs McMcclcan Black wood and Co. had entered into a three year's contract with the Government "1 Tasmania for the conveyance of mails between ITobart Town and New Zealand. We learn from our files that the mails are to be carried to Wellington via the Bluff, once every four weeks each way, the subsidy being £500, per annum. It is said that this sum does not, equal the post charges of the steamer at Hobart Town.

G. Harrison, defendant in a case at the Police Court yesterday, wishes to deny the statement in onr report of Priestley's evi dence, to the effect that complaint had been made that he had kept a had woman in the house, lie says the statement referred to a person who was living in the house before lie took possession of it. The news from the Moanatari Mine pub lished in our telegrams to-day is of a vevy cheering character, and will doubtless con siderably enhance the market value of the shares. " We learn from the Thames Star, that the Moanatairi Company have sent to California for a patent rock-drill to accelerate operations in putting through the continu ation of the long tunnel. At the Assessment Court of the Otahuhu Highway District, Mr Jackson, R.M., pre sided. On the application of Mr F. D. Yonge the name of Jeremiah Ford was substituted for his. An application to in sert the name of John McMurray was refused, on the ground that due notice of Objection had not been given. For allot ment No. 5, section 4, "Owner" was in serted in the list, Mr Beale appeared in support of an objection by the Board of Education to being rated for sections 6, 8, and 10 of section 8. The Board sustained the objection. The valuation of Mr I>. y tone's' property was reduced by £1. " 3 3odestrian " informs us that the cty authorities narrowly escaped an action for damages at his instance, consequent upon a fall into a pit-hole, corner of Albert and Victoria-streets, Clayton's Corner. Last night he was stepping off the footpath on to the road, when he plunged into this hole, and being only a small man, lie was nearly lost. The bole is said to have been caused by recent rains cutting a deep channel, "big enough to bury DormvellAs butchers' block." He hopes this note will be a cau tion.

It is necessary, to enable ratepayers' names to be placed on the City Largess Koll for 1877, now being compiled,, that persons shall have paid all rates for which they were liable on the 31st day of Decem ber'last ; and as the names of all persons appearing on the defaulters' list must be omitted from the Burgess Koll without any option, it follows that if rates are owing for any one property, although thuy are paid on others, the owners or ratepayers will be disfranchised. The last day of payment is the 31st of present month.

We again call attention to the dramatic, vocal, and terpischorcnii entertainment to take place this evening at the Lome-street Hall, in which Miss Jes.sie .Raymond and Messrs. E. Glover and C. F. Seaiie will prominently appear. The programme is choice and varied, and from _ the well-known talent of the above-mentioned artistes a most enjoyable entertainment may be antici pated. ' The low charge for admission, coupled with the fact of its being a holiday, should ensure a large attendance.

Mr Logan, a gentlemen connected with Bachclder's J'aniasconc, who has lately arrived from the South African diamond lields, lias entrusted Mr Ayres, the manu facturing jeweller, of Victoria-street^ with a magnificent stone for cutting, weighing ten carats, less one-eighth. The diamond is on exhibition in Mr Ayre's window, and is well worth ins]section, as the largest rough stone that has readied New Zealand. It is a remarkably white one. and will turn out a very large brilliant. Of course it will have'to lie sent to London to be cut. Mr Logan will also send by the same means a number of smaller diamonds, the whole of which are on view.

The Engineer and City Band will play in the barrack Reserve on Monday evening, commencing at a quarter to seven. Pro grammer—Grand march, "Fest,' Keislev; overture. "Cerentola," Rossini; qua-drillo, " Barbe. Bleu," Godfrey; grand selection, "Lo Domino Noir," Auber; volse, " Sol datcn Leider," Gung'l; polonaise, "<■'"' juan," Krister i gale]', " Mabel," Uoclfroy ;

That beautiful little Weslcyan Church at the North Shore is at last completed, and is to be opened to-morrow for public worship. The friends of tiie cause at Devonport are in high spirits as to the success of the first opening Sabbath services. The Methodists at this; suburb deserved great praise and iirst-class practical support for the great efforts put forward to raise such a neat structure for the services of the Almighty. Vv rhen the church was first spoken about some cried for it, and some had a dim and shaddowy financial gloom on their mental vision—and, perhaps, stood aloof, but now they see it is so far a complete success, and there is unanimous rejoicings and co-work ing. The folk at the North Shore whould do well to awake up early for to-morrow's services, that they may be there in time, as it may be crowded, and under no circum stances whatever allow any person to go without adjusting their purse strings, peep ing in to see that as far as they can a good lump of the debt will bo wiped away. The morning's service, at 11 o'clock, will be conducted by Rev. W. Kirk, who, we are sure, shall preach an eloquent sermon, and the pulpit will, in the evening, be occupied by Rev. W. J. Williams, whose name will attract to hear lam.

Rev. J. Inglis, one of the missionaries from the New Hebrides, will deliver a lecture on Tuesday evening next, in St .James' Presbyterian church. Subject, " Tcetotalism."

The programme for the complimentary benefit concert to Mr Dean, previous to his departure for the south is completed, and the concert will come oil' on Monday evening next in the Lome-street, Hall. The full particulars are stated on the bills, and consist, of overtures by the band, and songs and dances by the members of Clair's Magnet Troupe ; including the comic and sentimental element, a reading and farce. "Taming a Tiger." The whole will be under distinguished patronage, and conclude with ;< (juadrille party under the manage ment of a professional M.C.

Latest news from Fiji, states that it is generally believed that' Suva will cany the day as the seat of Government, A decision on" the subject is expected shortly from England.

A notice of Mr. Ernest Tinnes new book, "The Wonderland of the Antipodes," a story of a travel in the Province of Auck land, appears in the sixth pago of to-night's issue ; together with A'arious letters on cur rent topics. _^___

CABLEGRAMS.

[L'ER PRESS AGENCY],

AUSTRALIAN.

Seven Wickets Fer 232

MELBOURNE

March IG,

The combined team have lost seven wickets for 232 runs. Banncrman is not out, with a score of 157.

The Moanatairi Mine—Splendid Crashing.

TIIE following telegram from Mr Comer the mine manager, to Mr K. A. White, the legal manager, was posted at the Exchange this morning :— "Expect about 4(500 ozs gold total for fortnight.—lt. COMER, Mine Manager."

This being a yield very much in excess of what was reported would result from the crushing. There was of course great buoyancy in the sliareniarket in con- HC.jucncc. Sales have been made to-day i" Auckland at £5 15s to .£(> 10s.

VARIETY ENTERTAINMENT

An entertainment was given lust evening in the Catholic Institute, by the members of tho Tem perance Variety Troupe. The hull was not more Mian half filled, but the audience was orderly aridrespectable. The programme, which consisted mostly of comic songs, etc.. was well gone through. Mr Scents was extremely buc cessful in several new comic songs which he introduced. Miss McEvoy sain? "The Dear Little Shamrock," and Mr Plowman a comic sonx. Mi- Smart elicited great applause by his capital rendering of " Schneider, how you vas '." Mr Phillipp's delighted the audience with the German sons*. "All Fours," which he sang in Kood style. Met tain Bros, gave their unrivalled song and dance, " Down where the. Woodbine Tvvineth," and Messrs Hoff(?ard and (Jolcman performed a challenge dance. The entertain ment whs brought to a close by a snr aming farea, followed by a plantation walk.around, In which all the members oli tho company took part. The whole wound up with a quadrille party, Mr H. Hertz acting as M.O.

THE PANTASCOPE.

Tins amusing entertainment drew together a largo auditory last evening, and the pictures frcracntly brought forth evidences of delight from tho minified multitude. Another lot. of tcifts ware freely distributed, and .Mr Horatio X. Warner was the fortunate winner of the lady's Kold watch. This ovening will bo tho lust of liachelder's pantaseope in Auckland.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before Messrs J. Cosgrave and G. S. Graham, Esqs., Justices of the Peace.) "ST. PATRICK'S DAY IN THE MORNINfi.'

Thos. Lucas for the first, and Selina Miller and Elizabeth Best for the second time, were charged with drunkenness. The prisoners pleaded that it was St. Patrick's eve last night, and they naturally took a drop just for remembrance sake. The former was fined ss, and the two latter 10s each, with the usual alternative. AN IRISH .Tlft. Daniel Sullivan was charged with being drunk last evening, and also with conduct ing himself in a manner calculated to pro voke a breach of the peace. Prisoner complained that it was too bad that he should be nabbed by a "bobby" when he was only practising an Irish jig. Sure it wasn't very rowdy. He would, however, plead guilty to the charge, and allow their Worships to deal with him as they saw lit. Fined 5s and costs, or 2-1 hours imprison ment with bard labour. LOLLYPOP.S AND RATSIXS. Patrick McCarthy, aged 14, James Smith, aged 14, Richard George, aged 11, Thomas O'Neill, aged 14, and John Smith, aged 12, wore charged with stealing a quan tity of lollies and raisins, value 2s, the pro perty of William Dampier, on the 15th inst. The Court was thronged with boys be tween the ages of 10 and 15 years, who ex hibited much interest when the case was called on.

Prisoners pleaded guilty. Mr Sub-Inspector Paivly stated that the prosecutor was continually troubled by these boys coming to his shop, and taking hand fuifl of fruit, lollies, etc. The parents were chiefly responsile for this, as the boys were greatly neglected. On the parents promising to administer a sound whipping the boys were discharged.

•flip ffneifrtWiiS rJiJCft. Daniel Gouk, was charged with a breach of ilia Customs Rcgulatfoua by being con cerned in having uncustomed goods in his possession, on the 14th March 1877. Mr J. B. Russell appeared for Mr Gouk, and pleaded guilty. Ho stated that Mr Gouk had purchased a harmonium from the Captain of the vessel, which had been in constant me during the voyage. The harmonium was packed on the wharf, on the goods store, Mr Gouk was on his way to the Custom's office to. ascertain what amount he should have to pay as duty, when he mot a person whom he took to be a customs officer, who told him to foike it. {iVr'rtV, Mr, Uottk acted quite openly, and wilii no mention to il«fvnml, f-u* m^A for

a mitigated penalty, under another section of the Act.

Mr Brookfield stated that he could prove that this statement was not correct, as Mr Gouk had been advised by one of the receivers that he should have to pas customs' duty. Fined in the mutagated penalty of £25, with costs.

Case Against Captain Hoffatt,

W. M. Moffatt, master of the barque Santiago was charged with a breach of the Customs Regulations, by landing n har monium, before the ontry had been pas sed.

Mr. Tyler appeared for defendant, and pleaded guilty. He stated that the law in relation to violation of Custom's Regula tions, was so arranged, that a conviction was inevitable. The captain had made a mistake, and lie pressed that the iniligated penalty should be inflicted. His Worship had been detained, and he stood in danger of lossing his appointment. Mr Broolcfield had no objection to the mltigoted penalty being inflicted. The defendant was fined in the sum of £25, and costs. A similar case against Captain Moflatt was withdrawn on payment of costs. WILFUL PEEJURY. Win. Moylo applied for an information against Charles Hill, for wilful and corrupt perjury in a case before the Bench on Thursday. Their Worships refused to grant the application, but referred Mr Moyle to the Resident Magistrate. SUNDAY GEOG SELLING. James Patterson was charged with a breach of the Licensing Act, 1871, section 38, by supplying alcoholic liquors to one Maria Conway, on Sunday last, March 11- Mr Hesketh appeared for defendant, and pleaded not guilty. Maria Conway, a widow, residing at Edwardes-street, deposed that she went to the Fitzroy Hotel, on the afternoon of Sun day last at half-past three, and asked Mr Patterson to let her have a shilling's worth of beer, as she had been at Onehunga seeing her brother-in-law off to Taranaki, and was tired. Mr Patterson did not give her the beer for about ten minutes. She put the jug up under her shawl, and went outside to take it home. A policeman saw her and came over, and tried to put his hands up under her shawl. He managed to get them up,, and took out the beer. He took a good drink out of the jug (laughter). Mr Hesketh : You did not like him to put his hands all over your person did you, Mrs Conway. Mrs Conway : No, indeed, sir.

To Mr Hcsketh : She had visitors at her house, and she wished to give them some beer. She left Onehunga at 2 o'clock, and walked in to Auckland.

Constable Foreman deposed that he saw the woman coming out of the hotel with a jug of beer, which, he took from her. He accompanied her back to the hotel, when Mr Patterson admitted having served the beer. He then .served an information on Mr Patterson.

Mr. Sub-Inspector Pardy stated that the Sunday liquor selling was increasing to a frightful extent. Persons congregated' in houses, ami sent for beer to various hotels, and it was generally supplied. Tims riot and.drunkenness were greatly prevalent on Sundays. Mr. Patterson had previously borne a good character. Mr liesketh contended that defendant, had taken all reasonable precautions, and fully believed that Mrs Comvay was a tra veller.

Sub-Inspector Pardy informed the Court that he could prove beyond a doubt that Mrs Conway was not a boiiii lide traveller, but that she had come in from Onchunga, gone to her own house, and then proceeded to the hotel for beer.

The Bench having duly considered the evidence, were of opinion that it was hot sufficient for a conviction, and dismissed the case. This was all the business.

St. Patrick's Day.

To-DAY lias boon celebrated with gala ;in<l rejoicing in Auckland and everywhere else throughout the globe, where Irishmen are found—and wlmre is it that the rich ould brogue has not been hoard ? A brief sketch, traditional and historical, will be deemed an appropriate introduction to the numerous events of tho day. THE SENCHUS MOR—THE IRISH CODE Erin would seem to be a corruption of Eri, the ancient, name of Ireland. The Chroni cles of Eri is ;i work of great antiquity, consisting of original or very ancient Irish manuscripts. The work was translated into English by one of the O'Connor family, and published in London, in two volumes, in 1822. According to this venerable and highly interesting work, the Irish are of •Scythian origin, and their history ascends to si period more remote than that of the Jews. They were a nomad people, whose ancestors inhabited the vast countries north of the Indus, for a very lengthened period. Thence they migrated to the hawks of the Tigris, where they remained 1,304 years. Under their chieftain, Da ire, they crossed that river, extended their boundary to the west of the Euphrates, and became owners of all the intermediate lands, which they ruled with mercy. The territory was called Shinar. Here they dwelt, depasturing their Hocks and herds, for 1,809 years. At the end of that period, Shinar was invaded by the Assyrians, from the east, in overwhelm ing numbers, which compelled the Gael (Irish) to ascend the Euphrates, in small vessels to Armenia, and subsequently to travel thence, crossing a lofty range, to Iberia, a country lying between the Caspian and the Black seas, to the south of the Caucasian mountains. After a resilience of 2(j3 years in Iberia, Calma sailed from one of its ports, with a colony of the Gael, 'in quest of a new settlement. They reached the north of Spain in the year B.C. 1490, and settled in a territory there, called Gael-ag. STORY OF EOLUS, THE FAMOUS IRISH KING. Eolus, which in the Irish means wisdom, was the name of their most celebrated King after they had settled in Spain. During the life-time of his father, lie had visited the ancestral .seat of his tribe in Iberia,, and also Adimag, in Syria, where he acquired a knowledge of letters. After his return, and when he had become King, he entered into an arrangement with liamah, chief of Adi mag, under which the latter sent some of his people to Gaelag to instruct the nobles in letters, and the common people in ship building, in consideration of the latter aiding the Adimag miners in their mining operations in Spain. Eolus also sent nine of his people to study wisdom, and acquire knowledge at the schools of Adimag. After a residence there of three years, the nine returned to Gatd-ag, when lands were set apart for their use, and they elected one of their number to the dignity of Areh-olam. Eolus was a great writer; he gives an account of the early history of his tribe, and of the Assyrian invasion. Although a Heathen, lie inculcated on his people the divine precept of. doing unto others as they would Avish to be done unto. He died.in B.C. 1335. Cuiy, one of his successors, who reigned from B.C. 1204 to B.C. 1185, sent some youths of his nation to Aldimag to learn the harp. A high priest of his nation (Aid ceiroumtcar) was elected for the first time in the rei<m ofMaol, Inß.c. 1008, Sru, commander of an Egyptian expedition into Spain, de feated Eocaid, King of Iber, the ally of the Gael; whereupon the latter, too weak to offer any resistance, and too fond of inde pendence to submit, took refuge in the mountains of Aatuviaa. After a residence of 484 years in Kiwis*. ti»s H^el. yutlu?v than, submit to utovrry, '

EMIGRATED TO IRELAND, IN A LARGE

FLEET, commanded by the sons of Milesius, where they landed in the year B.C. 1000. The judges amongst the Gael > were termed "Brehons." From the reign oi Eolus if not from an earlier period, the brehons were wholly indepen dent of the Kings and people The office, deemed equal to that of the King, was hereditary m certain families. The brehons had their own territory and ser vants, and could devote all their time to study, and to the administration of justice. After the introduction of Christianity into Ireland, they wore as familiar with the language and laws of Home, as with their own. It reflects the greatest credit upon the judicial order amongst the Gael, that down to the abolition of the Brehon laws in the reign of James the First, the justice of their decisions had never been questioned, nor had any of the body ever been charged with corruption. The Senchus Mor —the great stone-house of justice—contains the bulk of the Irish code.

ST. PATRICK'S MISSION,

Saint Patrick landed in Ireland in 432,t0 teach Christianity to its inhabitants. In 438, aided by three kings, two other bishops, and three Brehons,he commenced, as part of his apostolic career, the revision of the Irish laws. Having wisely made no change in them, save where they were repugnant to the precepts of that religion which he had gone-thither to preach, the work was com pleted in 441, and it served as the great code of the Irish nation, from that period until it was superseded by English law about 1604. The code, as revised, was styled " Senchus Mor ;" and it is, as might be expected, pervaded by the deepest equity. It was so much revered, that the Brehons were in hibited from abrogating anything contained in it. The Irish were deeply attached to it, and such of the English in Ireland as could place themselves under its protecting influence, were but too glad to doit; for which they were styled by their country men, " degenerate" ; humanized would, have been a much more exact designation. AUCKLAND COPY OF SENCHUS MOK. The Senchus Mor is being published at the expense of the British Government, with a translation in English. One volume of the work appeared in Dublin in 1565, and another in 1869. These two volumes have been left on exhibition, at the Museum in Princess-street, by Mr Rochfort, so as to afford the public an opportunity of inspect ing them ; the only condition annexed being that the work shall not be injured.

ST. PATRICK'S EVE.

The usual preparations for the great national festional were observable through out the city and suburbs last evening. To wards midnight the different bands marched through the streets, and ushered in the new day with the well-known strains of "St. Patrick's Day in the morning."

THE 'CATHOLIC SCHOOLS. The morning being extremely fine, crowds of children and adult.'; began to assemble, at an early hour, in and around the Dignan's paddock in the vicinity of Wyndluvin and Hobson-strcetSjiind by ten o'clock, no less than a thousand persons were gathered out side to witness the forming of the various schools as they came fro'ii differ ent parts of the city and suburbs. The children at length under the guidance of their teachers, formed into a square,, and presented a most interesting sight. The little girls were mostly dressed in white, wearing green rosettes or a cross of green upon their breasts. At a quarter past ten there were evident signs of a movement, and the procession began to form in the following order, headed by the bands of the HiberftianSjtlic St. Patrick's Juvenile Band, and, before the members of the Hibernian Catholic Benefit Society, the fine band of the Hobsons, under Bandmaster McComish. The procession reached from Mr. Dignan's paddocks, to St. Matthew's Church, while above the festive scene floated eleven repre sentative banners, illustrated with numer ous significant emblems of St. Patrick and the Holy Catholic Church, the Pope's power, adorned with pictures of the Shamrock, and mottoes well under stood by all true Irishmen. Foremost in care of the little ones, were Revs. Father Macdonald, O'Dwyer, and Fynes, whilst among interested citizens we noticed Messrs Darby, Dignan, and others. The procession started at a quarter to eleven o'clock, the Hibernian and St. Patrick's Juvenile Baud playing "The Harp that once Through Tara's Halls," the well-known ballad of Ireland's representative poet. As near as our reporter could ascertain there' were about 2009 children of the different schools present. St. Patrick's, ISO ; St. Mary's, •230; St. John the Baptist, Parnell; 250; Newton, about 250 : a Considerable number from the North. Shore, and the remainder from live or six other schools. The schools were followed by the Auckland and other brandies of the

HIBERNIAN SOCIETY. headed by the Hobson Band playing "Killarney." Previous to joining the procession, the members of this Society attended .service in >St. Patrick's Cathedral, where a suitable antheml was sung, and. .subsequently the members were briefly' addressed by the presiding officer, Mr. Wm. O'Bcirne, who exhorted his brethren of the order to acquit themselves like men, and do honor to the memory of their patron saint by passing the holiday in a sober and proper manner. The Auckland Branch was headed by the chief officers : Messrs. Win. O'Beirne, President; E. L. Kelly, Vice-Pre.sident ; C. Little, Marshal; M. Connolly, Secretary ; and Jas. Clarke, Treasurer. The Onehunga Branch was led by President Davies, Vice- President Daly, Secretary Lucas, and Treasurer Kemp ; and the Otahuhu Branch by the Treasurer and Secretary, Messrs. Cronin and Brady. About 200 members were present, and their appearance and green .sashes formed a pleasing contrast to the white frocks of innocence. The fore most and one of the larger banners was carried by two natives from the Catholic. College, .North Shore, who were accom panied by a cluster of other natives in holi day trim, who had been educated in the College afore-moutioued. The procession" was well arranged, orderly, and on upon which St. Patrick might have gazed with serene satisfaction.

THE DOMAIN.

At noon the children were gathered to gether and seated on the grass under the shade of the trees. Tea, milk, cakes, saud- Aviches, and buns, were liberal disperssed, under the direction of the members of the Christian Doctrine Soniety, and Clergy, Father Walter McDonald being especially that none of the little ones should be left without their dinner. After thus regaled, they /went in search of various amusements kiss-in-the- ring, skipping, rounders, and J/renc.i tig, gathering a large number of them together. Eootballand cricket are engaging the attention of older persons of the male sex. A man is doing agood trade with a number of inflated bladders. The Hibernian Band, under Bandmaster Lorigan; the Hobson Band, under Band master McComi.sh ; and the St. Patrick's Juvenile Drum and Fife Band, are dis coursing sweet music.

THE SPORTS. The sports commenced at one o'clock in the Domain Hollow, the Committee having been unsuccsaful in their efforts to procure the cricket ground, on which the sports were held last year, Mr, Derapsey is performing the onerous duties falling to the lot of the starter. Mr. It, C\ Greenwood acts as handi cupper, while Mr, W. O'Bcirnc is officiating aa judge, Maiden IUW, 13ft yards, open to member Of the H,A,CJ>,B, rmq; Member^

Five competitors came to the scratchvT the start was not satisfactory, one of th complaining that the starter stood in f 6JI of him and destroyed his chanc* of wi • * the prize. ' ' nm *%

Patterson obtained a slight advantas*. t the start, and this he increased tofcfl+w finish, winning by about three yar,L 5 mr 6 race resulted : —J. Patterson, 1 ' j, "& . nan, 2. " " ren> 2nd event. Throwing the Hamer; open to membp™ «c the H.A.C.B.S. Society only. Prize??in There were a large number of entries hi Breiman was proved the winner, after i seemed an easy effort on his part. During the contest, the spectators hid hedged the competitors in closely, and th placed themselves in great danger n of the competitors in throwing the hammc"* held it rather long, and the consequeJp was that it was precipitated into th midst of a large crowd of men, women 6 and children. It seems niarvellon'a that no person wa3 killed, as th hammer fell between two little boys who were standing about a yard apart The impression made in the ground was about three inches deep, therefore, if it l la j hit one of the boys on the head he would have been instantaneously. It .is only f a i t to add that the committee used their utmost endeavours to keep the crowd back, and if they were unsuccessful the fault did'not lie at the door.

EAST TAMAKI RACES.

Stkwands

Captain Walmsley, Mr. R. J. Taylor Mr. J. S. Buckland, Mr. Charles ftobfirt= JUDGE : Honorable E. McLean. This very interesting suburban race meet ing is going on this afternoon at Tamaki Heads. In all probability this meeting win become an annual fixture for St. Patricks Day, and its attractions are so great, and so little known, that every anniversary is likely to make the reunion more popular. Tli'e promoters must certainly be congratulated on the manner in which they have mana«cd the preliminaries. Mr Woolfield the secre tary, is an old hand at this business, and it is pleasant to see that his efforts to make the gathering a success have not been thrown away. The other officials must also be con gratulated for their indefatigableendieavotus in collecting subscriptions, and attending to their self-imposed labours. The steamers Takapuna, Lilly, Lalla Rookh and Transit, eacli took down a load of passengers, and the trip by water was generally voted, not the least enjoyable part of the day's pro gramme. The scenery on the river was very much admired. The sport began at half-past twelve. Hurdle Race:, of 15 soys. Entrance, 80s. Dis tance, about, 2 miles, over 8 flight 3of hurdles, no weight less than list. Mr. Gwynne's eh g Butcher Boy ] Mr. Kirkwood's cli g Loafer 2 Mr. Gillard's tf s Rocket .. 3 Maidex Plate, of 10 soys. Entrance, l sot. Distance, li miles ; for all horses that have never won an advertised race. Weights:3 years. 7st. 111b.; I years, 9st.; 5 years, 9st.Clb.; (5 years and aged, 9st. 7lb. Marcs and geld ings allowed iSlbs. ( Mr. Kelly's br g Magician, aged, 9st. (Kelly).. 1 f Mr. Kirkwood's b g Midnight, i yrs., Bst. 111b. (Kodcn) 2 Mr. J. F. Bucklan l's eh f Aconite, Syr?., 7s(. Bibs 0 Mr. Hunt's eh s Young Fly, 2yrs., ost... .. 0 Aconite and Young Fly were scratched Betting : 2 to 1 on Magician, who held a slight lead right through, and won easily by 4 lengths. There are nearly 1,000 people on the course.

Handicap Betting : even, Don and Shamrock; 4 to 1, auy other. Kelly oil Magician declares 13 lbs. over weight. Ursurper and Midnight are scratched.

Excursions.

THE S.S. KIN A. The s.s. Kina went on an excursion to the Kawau this morning. We were sorry to observe that this useful little boat was not so well patronised as her enterprising owner deserves.

THE S.S. ARGYLE. .. The Coroniandel folks chartered the s.s. Argyle from Captain McGregor, for to-day. She went down yesterdry, and will to-day run an excursion, from Corouiandel.

" The Three Jolly Beggars," OR, "THE DISAPPOINTED DODGERS."

A FARCE (IN THREE ACTS),

BY Tlie Doctor,

AUTHOR OF " MY WEEKLY DOSE," "EDENOMAXIA," ETC., ETC.

DRAMATIS PERSONS.

Jimmy Wriggles-tA disappointed conspirator, repenti uj; of his sins, and desirous of wnygling our, of a fix. Ck. Chisslin-g—Disappointed conspirator _ No. 2. Who never will do so not no more if let

off this time. Cr. Jacicson— Disappointed Conspirator, No. 3. On the Kinchin lay. . Ck. Taylor—A Fajjin, who does the " fencing" for the Three Conspirators, and tries to make a suni? "plant" for himself. Calkb Wood—A Detective who smeils a rat

and " springs the. plant." T Jonx Abbott—A Capitalist, who carefully notes the proceedings of the Conspirators. brings in a bill of indictment against them and invests the affair with considerable interest. Dr. Wallis—A Professional Han?;man-an enthusiast at the business, who works OH the Criminal without fee or reward. Mr. Jenkins—A friend of the cause. Cii. Maizkfield—A mm of iron wlioftenosto

the will of the people. Mk. Toddles—Seat-bearer to the Conspirators —who does not wish to ses tho Aeß./uMj'tf lest he be suspended himself.

ACT ONE.

SCEXE.—A secret chamber in the Garden of Ede:i. Tlie curtain rises discoveriujf the 'Ihkbb Cox^i'jkatohs sitting with lugubrious «3*S^ They are attired a la the witches in Macbetn, 'I'ho lights l)urn a ghastly blue, Tliey.HSß solemnly, and inarch with stealthy Tarqumian strides round a 100 table, on which stand three pint pots.

Ciiisslixg, (in a hoarse whisper—). When shall we three meet again, Iv thunder, lightning, storm, or rain* Wkigolks— When the hurlyburly's done. When the battle's lost and won. Omxes, in a horrible chaunt— Double, double, toil and trouble. This 'ere comes of playing double. JACKSON, (defiantly swelling out his chest-) What though the act be lost ?■ All is not lost; the unconquerable will And study of re-evenge, ah, immortal iiatei And courage never to submit or yield. Wkigsles -That's right old pal, Iknowyouw thorough. y Jacksox—(as'de)—l'll work a wrinkle wJieni get that Borough. Air—" What are the wild waves saying."

Chiseling— Wh at are the voters saying, Brothers, the old day long 2 That we are our trusts betraying1, Ever the same sad song. Jacksox—(in deep bass—) Brother, I hear no growling, 'Tls but the Auckland cov«s, The voices of outsiders howling For a share of th' fishes and loaves. Wit IGGLES— , ~ But there's that blessed meeting at ParneJi. It strikes me it'll prove a reg'lar sell. CmssLixG— My heart misgives me, and I lTin to fear, Our cause, is getting just a trifle queer. We'd bettor wow be up and doing1, I think I see a precious storm a brewing' Wriggles— I've got an idea in my noddle, ijfn That was suggested by that sly old Toaoie< Air—"The Englishman.' (Sings mysterously) „„„,« There's a place that bears a well known a»aw Though it's only a little spot, It's the very place for our little gair>e- And wh o shall say it is not f $j Jacksox — ~,i Oh, hang that squalling—he fur to gnoj*' ,< ~ He'd better tell us where this Wawsteit -onU »i Let's have no more oi.' this 'ore sjingmg rfP^ u l'a Jj'jt'a §pot the crib, raid thoa avq »«« ct'aok it. Ja it:- whore am« wrthy (thewmao. bttos«f

THE EVENING STAR, SATURDAY, MARCH 17, 1877.

4



Ladies wid Gentlemen about to Farninh arc respect fuUy requested to inspect the Large \Stoak of 1)11 A WING -B 0 0 ,if. D LNIN G- -ROOM BEDROOM, AND GENEH.IL JSO USER OL D F URN IT URE, In our New and Spacions Shoutroonts T. & R.COOKE, ■ 67. QUSBM-STEKET 4dininina Rank nf jV«n Z«rtlnifi jH R E T O N N E S! ! ! Liuvc Assortment of Beautifnl Patterns in CRETONNES Just Opened. FURNISII your House economically from the City Ilall Arcade. _ FURNISH your Drawing-room from Holloway and Garlick'a Choice Stock. URNISH your. Dining-room, Kitchen, and Bedroom with substantial and Cheap Furniture. EDDINoI—AII made on the Premises. '••■■' BEDDING !—Guaranteed Genuine. BEDDING!— To fit all sizes Bedsteads and Cots. EDSTEADB!—HaIf-tester, French, and Folding. "OEDSTEADS —Iron, Wood, all sizes and _O prices. "OEDSTEAD Hangings made to order. T INOLEUM!—The best fovcrinc: for Floors JLj • of Halls, Dining, and Billiard Rooms. Unsurpassed for durability. tTnOTjEUM !—Especially prepared for SKaii'3, I_J iust opened ex LocSi Urr. LADIES AND GENTLEMEN wanting Good and Cheap Furniture, Drapery, and Clothing, are invited to inspect Our Stock. Most extexsive Show-boowb in Auckland. HOLLOWAY & GARLICK, CITY HALL FURNISHING ARCADE, Queen-street axd Lobnb-strbet. Auckland.



JC O S G R A V E &■ C 0., Beg to announce they will bring-forward A Fresh Lot of B A R G A I N S!!! Consisting of HEIR LATE SHIPMENT BY THE ORARI, Purchaser! at Home at Job Prices, together with the whole. of their SUMMER DRAPERY & CLOTHING, REDUCED IN PRICE TO SUIT THE TIMES everal Bales "of CALICO, damaged by sea ■watnr. -will ho Sold under Tnvoino Prinn. ~K A ICHOR SOUTHERN JP PORTS. J^M|3iik^^ The s.s. TAU P O Will leave for the above ports at noon on TUESDAY;, 20th instant. Passengers by the 11 a.m. train. HENDERSON & MACFARLANE, Accents. CiTEAM COMMUNICATION jpagpjg^'O WITH THE THAMES AND *I^=BS3iE?COROMANDEL. FOR SHORTLAND, calling at GRAHAMS TOWN, and discharging Passengera and Cargo, The 'ENTERPRISE' and 'LALLA ROOKII," Every Night. Time Table: From Auckland:— Saturday, 12 midnight Monday, 12 midnight Tuesday, 12 midnight ' AVednesday, 12 midnight Thursday, 12 midnight Friday, 6 p.m. Saturday, 12 midnight Fares, 7s. 6d. and ss. Return Tickets available by either Boat.' All cargo to be alongside one hour before sail ing. Weather and other circumstances permitting. Not responsible for goods or parcels put on board without a shipping note. Goods stored at the risk of Consignee. All claims for loss or denmge to be made withm seven days, or they will not be recognised. Excursion Steamers always for Hire. J. N. MAUGHAN. Manager. mAM 0' SIIANTEIt FOR lllPb^- JL WAIUKU. From Onohunga— From Waiuku— Monday, 8 a.m. Monday, 1 p.m. . Wednesday, 0 a.m. Wednesday, 2 p^n. Saturday, 12 noon Saturday,- 5 p.m. For Manukau Heads and Whatipu Milla on Friday, at 7 a.m.



**^^v"Ij10II GISBOIINE AND «^^^-lj NAPIER. ' Calling on tub Coast. Th° S" S" JANE DOUGLAS,,, Captain Fraser, will leave Auckland as above on MONDAY next, the 19th March, at d p.m. CRUICKSHANK & CO., . ' Agents. IG, Queon-street, Auckland, March 17^ 1877- BOYFTND MEN'S CLOTHING, STRONG TWEED FOR BOYS' WEAR FLANNEL, &c, &c. A LAEGE PARCEL OF NEW GOODS JUST OPENED UP RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN'S, Comprising— Men's Tweed Trouser variety, from 10/G per pair Men's Strong Tweed Saite, at 30/ sui complete Men's Superior Quality Suits Paget Coats, and JJoys' and Youths' Suits in variety Men's Moleskin Trousers, a really good quality, at 7/6 per pair Strong Cotton Working: Shirts in variety ■ AH Wool Crimean Shirts, good qualities, from C/ 6 And, A Lot Of STRONG- TWEED, suitable for Boys, wear, from 1/11 per yard Also, 2 Bales ALL WOOL WELSH FLANNEL from 1/2 per yard . New Prints, Furnishing Goods, &c. Inspection will prove that the above Goods 3™* really cheap, the whole parcel having been exceptionally \{Khh bought in an over Stocked market. £SW One ShiUlng in the & returned on all pur chases of 20s. and upwards. USUBBO OIT & B RID QM& N, V^ISS QUESW-BTIWSfP



W O T I C X J. W. I'EA'K.SE INTENDS HOTTING A CrIICAP CLEARING OUT SALTS OF [118 LARGE AND VALUABLE STOCK OF GEN EIIAL DUAPEB.Y, KE AD Y-M ADE C LOT HIN< >, And FANCY GOODS, ff3" At a, Vory-Great Reduction ! Sale to Commence on SATURDAY, 3rd March. No Ckkiht Given. Closed on Friday to Murk Down the Stock. J^KAT I ]y[EAI I EAT! From THIS Date, and Until Fuhtiieu NOTICE, , FORE - QUARTERS MUTTON WILL BE REDUCED to 2i>. y Ib. A Large Stock of PLUME MEAT will be Kept in Stock. CORNED BEEF, 3d. SAUSAGES, Id. CHOPS, .Id. This is every clay, not only on Saturdays, as heretofore G. HULME, Butciiee, Queen-street. |3 AR N E I, L RI D I N G. In aocordanpp with tho earnest request of si larse inimhor of the .Ratepayer* of Parn'.ill, t.ie aieotins of tho above Hiding, as aiijourncu from Thursday last, wiU he held on MONUAI, March 19, at 7.31) p.m., in the Parnell Hall, at which it is desired to have a, l.ull aiio. irec criticism of matters connected with the County of lfidon—tho HaiiKinß-,of tho Act, etc. Coun cillors Kissling and Wrigley are respoottully invited to attend and explain the Act. "irfURNISHED Apartments, with or _SJ without board, at Broaghton Hall, Parnell Rise, Parnell. l^T EWCA ST L E GOA L.



The Barque 'Stag/ Is Daily Expected with a Cargo of 450 tons Coal, Dolivcred, or at Ship's side. Those desirous of laying in a Winter's Supply should not lose this opportunity of doing so, as they will be Sold Cheap. W. :& G. WINSTONE, Cnstom-housc-street. TTi O R S A L E . JD HARMONIUMS ! HARMONIUMS ! 20 Alexandra's Harmoniums, in Rosewood, Walnut, and Oak, 2 to 12 stops. On view at Brunswick Mart, upper floor. B. TONKS & CO. Relief fhom Cough in Ten Minutes.— Sbarland's Cherry Pectoral, a specific for Colds, Coughs, Asthma, Consumption, Bronchitis, Lung Diseases, &c. It acts like magic. Price, 2s. Gel. and Is. Cd. a bottle. Sharland's Instant Cure for Toothache; Is. a bottle.—Shablands, oppositej^qst-ofHco. Auckland. MUTUAL LIFE ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALASIA. INCORPORATED BY ACT OF PARLIAMENT. NEW ZEALAND BRANCH: Head O/lice, Auckland. Local Director: George Burgoynk Owen, Esq. (Messrs. Owen and Graham.) Principal Medical Officer: Charles Field Goldsp.ro', Esq., M.D. General Agent for New Zealand : William T. J. Bell. With Sub-Agencies in all the Principal Towns. Every information on the subject of LIFE ASSURANCE ANNUITIES, and ENDOW MENTS FOR CHILDREN, afforded by J. A. LOWE, Travelling Agent to the Association ; or WILLIAM T. J. BELL, General Agent.



55^ Special Features.— Age admitted on Policies, which are UNOHALLANGABLE from date of issufi. Lowest Rates of Premiums, and no hamper ing conditions as to residence or occupation.