SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

FrmTT x. atitt? I This Afternoon, 7.13 HIGH WATER—j To . morrow Morning, 7.31 SUN SET.—Thi3 Evening, 5.55 SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning, 6.17 MOON'S AGE.—Full Moon, 29th, 5.28 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Saucy Kate, schooner, from Lyttelton Golden Isle, schooner, from Russell Rowena. s.s., Sellars, from Tauranga

DEPARTURES.

Pretty Jane, s.s., Helander, for Gisborne and Napier Telegraph, schooner, for Napier

IMPORTS.

Per Saucy Kate, schooner, from Dunedin : 32 tons Hour, 200 bags bran, 30 casks ale, 10 sacks, 20 half-sacks, 80 qr.-sacks flour, 60 sacks bran—Coupland and Co. 30 hlids. Marshall's ale and stout—John Reid.

Intending visitors to Waiwera are reminded that the Argyle leaves for the Hot Springs at 10 o'clock to-morrow morning. This steamer will leave on Saturday for Coromandel.

Tho Rowena is detained in consequence of the holidays until two o'clock on Saturday. Cheap trips to the Thames are announced per Kotomahana during the holiday soasoe. An alteratioa is ffiade in the time-table to suit the convenience of the public. The lona will sail for Ru3soll on Monday at 2 p.m. All cargo must be on board on Saturday. The barque Elmiranda is losing no time in discharging her cargo of notions. The schooner Jane Anderson is chartered by Coupland and Co., to proceed to Port Albert and load for Lyttelton at Nicholson's mill.

The Saucy Kate brings a cargo of grain from Lyttelton.

The brigantine Sir Isaac Newton cleared yesterday in ballast for Sydney, Tho schooner Ephemy is chartered by Messrs Coupland and Co. to proceed to Coromandel, there to load timber for Dunedin.

The schooner Elizabeth is to sail at once for Wangaroa to load timber for Lyttelton. The mad steamer not having put in appe.r ■vnce this mornipg, the s.s. Hawea is detained in the Manukau till to-morrow morning at p.* -^ r. o'clock.

b_T.ie S.s. Rowena arrivedfrom Tauranga to-day _,_ _ o'clock. Passengers: Mossrs T Whclan, De Jongh, T, Wybo, Pile, Young, T. Banks, E. Birch, Tho3. Russell, Hon. J. Williamson, Joyce, Mrs Allison, Mrs Harerotta and family (4), Dr Kuyland, 6 natives, 3 constables and prisoner, (Boulton). Cargo : 300 bags wheat, (principally consigned to Messrs Lewis Bros.) 30 bags fungus, 35 pigs, 2 horses, 1 cart. The brigantin Rodorick Dhu has been char tered by Messrs Jones and Ware to bring a cargo of stone from.Melbourne for the new dock. The vessel is expected to said about the present time.

AUCKLAND STOCK AND MINING REPORT.

Bank of New Zealand—£l9 17s 6d; Buyers, £19 15s ; sellers, £20. National Bank—67s Gd ; buyers. 665; sellers, 'colonial Bank (40s paid up)— Buyers, 37s 6d. Thames Gas Co.—Buyers, 235. South British Insnrance—793. National Insurance.—Buyers, 30s. New Zealand Insurance—92s 6ri..: Union Sash and Door Co. (old issue)—£B ss. New Zealand Loan and Mercantile—s3s. Red Queen—Sellers, 6s 3d. City of London—Seders. 15s. Moanatairi—£lß 10s, £18,155, £20 ; buyers, £18 15s; sellers, £19. Inverness—Sellers, Bs. Waitekauri—l9s; sellers, 19s 6d. Alburnia—Sellers, 21s. Young New Zealand—7s 6d; sellers, 7s Gd. Union Beach—4os. 12s 6d; sellers, 455. Tokatca—Sellers, Ss. Piako-10. ; seUersJls. Waiotaki—2ls. ~_.___ Queen of Beauty—Sellers, 30s. Kara-mi Hill—l9s, 20s; sellers, 193. Thames—7os. _ _, . JOSEPH NEWMAN. Chan-mar.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Closr as Under :— For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m., and on Satnrdav next, at 3 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel. per Kina, this day, at 5.30 p.m., and per Argyle, on Saturday next.

at 11.30 a.m. For Australian Colonies, per City of Sydney, immediately after her arrival from Randavii. F.n- Taranaki, and Southern Provinces, per Hawea, this day, at 7 p.m. _~___ For New Caledonia, per Mazeppa, on baturaay

next, at 9 a.m. , _, For Waiwera, Warkworth, Matakana, Manga •wai, Waipu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Anne Milbank. on Saturday next, at 10 a.m. For Chatham Islands, per Omaha, on Saturday

next, at 11 a.m. . Fnr Tairua, per Mercury, on Saturday next, at

11 a.m. _ _ _.. . Fo>- Whitianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowena. on Saturday next, at 1 p.m. For Now Hebrides, per Dayspring, on Monday

next._t6a.ni . ,- For Russell, Wangaroa, and Mongonui, per lona, on Monday next, at 1 p.m. For Norfolk Island, per Southern Cross, on or about Wednesday, 4th AprU. P.w s.s. Taranaki, on Monday, April 2, as fol lows :— _ , , For India, China. Mediterranean Ports, ana Continent of Europe, at 7 a.m. For Taranaki, Southern Provinces, Aus tralian Colonies, and United Kingdom, via Suez and Southampton (for lettei. specially ad dressed), ot 8 a.m. For money orders and registered letters, on Saturday, 31st inst, at 5 p.m. For newspapers, at 6 a.m.

N.B.—Friday, the 30st inst., being a Post-office holiday, the mails usually closing on that day will bo made up on the previous evening, at 7 p.m

S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

BIRTH.

DOULL.—At Ponsonby, on the 2Gth instant, Mrs. James C. Douli of a son.

DEATH.

AICKIN.-On the 29th March, at Thorleigh, Park Road, Eric Philson, infant son of Graves Aickin, aged 9 months.

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

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 1877

For the e_kse that lacks assistance. For the wronfj that needs resistance. For the future in the distance, And the _ood that wc can do.

CABLE news from Europe is of a dis quieting character. The Russian press lias again raised the cry of " war or dishonour," and a cable despatch to-day announces that Montenegro has broken oil- negotiations for peace. A special significance is pro perly attached to the tone .of the press in a country where its voice is obedient to the controlling power of the Government. If the Emperor were desirous of subduing the war feeling of the nation, means would soon be found to silence agitation ; but there has been ample evidence through out tho recent complicated negotiations, that the desire for a raid on Turkish territory was strongly developed at the Court of St. Petersburg,the only restraining consideration being fear of English inter ference General Ignatieff may have satis lied his Government, as the result of his recent English tour, that if England refuses to countenance the aggressive policy of Russia she is not likely to offer active opposition. The prospect of an Anglo-Turkish alliance in the outset of any campaign must be a very remote one, and that is all the assur ance the Russian Government need desire The question of continuing the war until foreign interference is unavoidable, may he determined at any stage of the struggle. The assertion, however, that England has caused Russia's limited choice of distaste ful alternatives is a very Russian way of putting the position. That England should have refused to become particeps criminis in Russian designs, and has so thrown the onus of sustaining Imperial braggadocia upon the nation from which it emanated, is hardly a fair pretext for saddling the author shipof the war ona Government whichhad no part in exciting bellicose feeling, but has done its utmost to secure a peaceful settle ment. The object of the recent vir.it of General Ignatieff to the Court of St. James' and Vienna, has, most probably, been to feel the pulse of England and Austria in relation to a localised war—unless, indeed, an alliance with the latter power for territorial aggrandisement may have been secured. There is every likelihood now that war against Turkey will he decla red next month, the Spring being especially favourable for opening a campaign. Where it will end, is not given for man to predict. Our contemporary the " Herald" in this morning's leader, commenting on the aspect of affairs, perpetrates an extraordinary blunder. Quoting that portion of the despatch relating to the ' recall' of Midhat Kasha as Grand Vizier, the writer of the article proceeds to treat the author of the Constitu tion of Reform as still holding office, and laments his "recall" as a calamity. Our contemporary further explains that Ihe Sottas desire the " recall" because Midhat Pasha's sentiments are not sufficiently Avarlike to satisfy their enthusiasm. The truth is, that Midhat Pasha was dismissed from office by the Sultan in January last, and another Grand Vizier now reigns in his stead. "Recall," therefore,is employed in the sense of restoration, and would imply that the liberal views of the ex-Vizier arc in favour with the opinions of the most highly educated section of Turks. The offence which caused the abrupt dismissal of Midhat Pasha immediately after the birth of his Constitution was surrounded with considerable mystery. Officially, it wasannounced that he had infringed the pre rogative of the Sultan, but, more probably, bis policy was offensive to the Conservative element in the Empire, and the large class of pillaging office-holders at Constantinople. If the agitation for his restoration is suc cessful, there is no reason for supposing that the resolution to resist Russian demands would be relaxed in any degree, Midhat Pasha being more stubbornly opposed to the machinations of the Czar, and more confident of t\ie resources of the Ottoman Empire, than any statesman who lias basked in the light of the most adorable monarch's sublime countenance.

Yielding to the unanimous appeals of our typographical stall to have full time ior devotion?.! exercises, Aye have decided not to issue the STAR to-morrow evening, hut it will twinkle with unwonted brilliancy on Saturday, when a supplement, abounding in wit, wisdom, and instruction, will be added.

An error was inadvertently made in our report of City Council proceedings yester day. The Mayor stated it was intended to open Council oilices on Saturday, not Good Friday, to enable ratepayers having all ]ios sible convenience to pay their rates before the Ist April.

Thomas Burns and Ellen Hyder, senten ced by the R.M., at the Onehunga Police Court to-day to six weeks imprisonment each for indecent conduct in the street near the Wesleyan Church, were lodged in Mount Eden this morning.

There ;ue some men who take a pride in moderating their transports. They consider it iindignilied to be delighted. And thus, in evidence of their perfect self-control, when they have to reward sonic meritorious act they are careful not to over-value it. They object to the cockles of their hearts being considered ■warm, or the organ itself soft. I have known this powerful self repression exercised by hard-fisted and thrifty colonists on the road to £50,000 a year by living on £150. But I have not 'cou_e across a livelier example than that of an Eng_is# gentleman, who kept a good deal of company, and whose table was sup plied from his peach-houses and vineries. Absent on the Continent pin. S£££P,n, the gardener sold tho fruit rather .tha;i see it wasted, and wm enabled to lian'd over lb his master on his return some £'<id. '' What's this? What's this, Jamesf The gai'dener explained. "Ahi Very good—-very good indeed. Here's a shilling .or you."-* ---"A-ttwu. ■' in thu *f M^hou.ne btMNft' 1

A Auckland young lady of 20 years, Miss Kate Milligan Edger, third daughter of Rev. Samuel Edger, 8.A., has eclipsed all the other young ladies of this city in win ning the highest position as a lady-student in the records of scholarship in Great Bri tain and the colonies. The information from the senate of the New Zealand Uni versity, held at Nelson, says :—" Miss Kate Edger and Mr Reid, of Auckland, awarded senior scholarships. Miss Edger, to whom the degree of 13. A. has been awarded, is to have the degree publicly conferred iv Auck land." Miss Kate Edger studied at the Auckland College and Grammar School, and at the December examination this perse vering scholar obtained nearly the highest marks possible. Wc congratulate the young lady and her parents on the dis tinguished success of their daughter.

With reference to the complaint made by Mr Herapath to tho City Council yes terday, that he had been overcharged foi a lease by the city solicitors, we learn that tho original charge of £3 3s per allotment, was lixed under the conditions on which the land was leased some years ago, and that, through the lease not being taken up at the time, a second lease in accordance with the altered law was rendered necessary. For the two services a fee of only £5 5s for a lease of two allotments was asked, and the statement in the "Herald" report that a further sum of £3 3s had been demanded is contrary to fact.

The Point Russell Hotel is advertised in another column as offering special advan tages to travellers to the Waikato, being situated close to the landing place. This hotel has a good suite of apartments, and is a. favourite resort. In connection with the hotel is a, most fertile kitchen garden. Scarlet runners are to he seen in profusion, which are now bearing for the third year in succession. There arc cabbages of immense size, while along the fonce and over the garden arc pumpkins of ponderous size, testifying to the fertility of the soil. Visitors are allowed the free use of the pleasure boat, owned by the proprietor. Mercer is the liveliest station oi the line, and well worth a visit by townpeoplo who have not yet seen the district.

To the Editor : —Sir, —l attended a funeral on the 25th March, at the Roman Catholic Oemcteiy, and to my great astonishment, when tho funeral arrived there at 4 p.m., there was no priest in attendance. The day previous, one was engaged to attend the funeral, and read the usual service over the corpse. About 15 minutes after the arrival of the funeral, the deceased's father sent a carriage for the priest, but he was otherwise engaged, and could not attend. Therefore, the corpse was interred without any, the funeral service not being read until the following day. I think _ case like this should be made known to the public.—l am, &c, Alexander Tough.

A very entertaining service for children was conducted last evening, at the Bercs ford-strcet Church, at which very many were present, other than the children, of both sexes. Some sweet hymns were sung from the collection by Sankey and Bliss. Special prayers were offered up on behalf of the children, by Messrs. Matthews, Eady, and Daldy ; and the pastor, Rev. J. Robert sou, addressed those assembled on a subject having relation to their duties towards their parents, their teachers, and their Cod. The whole proceedings were short and very fervent, followed by a church meeting, at which the members only stayed.

The Bay of Islands County Council lias adopted the permissive clauses of the Counties Act.

The Education Board of Dunedin lias decided to appoint three teachers of music in the (Jill's High' School, in order to reduce the cost to pupils.

Ai Christchurch an inquiry has been held before Judge Johnston as to the mental condition of W. A. Gray, an inmate of the Sunnysidc Lunatic Asylum, who contends, despite medical testimony, that he is sane. The jury decided that he was unlit to be at large, and lie was accordingly committed to a private asylum.

Different persons have different ways of spending Good Friday, or Holy Friday, as it was formerly called, and Church of England men, and members of the Roman Catholic Church, arc the most worshipful on the day, Others, belonging to chapels and separate communities, devote the day of feasting and pleasure. Dr Johnson held very strict notions regarding Good Friday, as readers of Boswcll's life of the literary lion know. The Rechabitcs of Auckland, at least those of the Hope of Auckland and Eden Tents, have resolved upon a tea-meeting, with hot cross lmn.4, and a concert at the Temperance Hall, for which a musical and literary programme has been provided. Tea will be timed at, half-past six, and the concert will commence at eight o'clock.

■In the New Plymouth District prize firing, S. Barriball and C. Barriball were prize winners, witli scores of 71 and 69 respectively.

The members of the Auckland Sccnlar Association announce their intention of holding their adjourned meeting to-moirow evening, in the old Carlton Academy. Chair to be taken at half-past seven o'clock.

rl his evening, the Holy Communion will lie celebrated in St. Sepulchre's church, and Bishop Selwyn will preach.

Clair's Minstrel Troupe will appear at the Lome-street Hall on Monday evening, with a varied programme, representing two of the races, white and black, full particulars of which will be given by means of type.

The monthly meeting of the Prince of Wales Lodge will be held this evening, at the usual hour, in the Star Hotel, to which visitors are invited.

Major Clare lias returned from the Bay of Islands, after holding a commission to inquire into the charges preferred by Mr John London against Mr Williams,' the Returning Officer connected with the last election. We understand that Major Clare's report, which lias been forwarded to the Government, finds the charges unsub stantiated, and acquits Mr Williams generally of blame.

A " Citizen " writes, pitching into the management of our contemporary the "Herald." We cannot, however,'afford further space to so unprofitable a subject.

Mr D. B. Orchard, a gentleman well known in commercial circles as a member of the Stock and Mining Association, has succeeded Mr Alexander in the agency of the Oriental telegram.

The Spring Villa Young Ladies' School, Ponsonby, Avhich under the direction of Mrs Addey, has achieved a Avell-merited reputation, as one of the best educational institutions in the vicinity of the city, re-opened yesterday. The services of three first-class masters have been secured, and the school Avill more than maintain its past efficiency. We may mention, as other wise recent events might militate against the school, and render a misfortune doubly severe, that a protection order aa„s granted to Mrs Addey by the Resident Magistrate on Saturday. This will prevent for ever the recurrence, under any circumstances, of the painfnl family unpleasantness, Avhich during the last quarter naturally excited the disapproval of parents. We do not doubt, tha,t strong sympathy Avill have heen excited for a lady placed in such cir cumstances as those that have become publicly knoAvn in connection with this school, and Aye are sure the hope expressed by Mrs Addey, in her notice of the second .qu&iftqj. will, be realised in a continuance of tbe support of her friends. The school has been placed on a better footing than ever, and will be conducted as satisfactorily in all respects a? before, whoa Mva Ad.dey ' had th® ftttt WfWftgOßitfit. s

We learn that Mr DeLias has re-engaged the eminent Emmet, one of the most suc cessful actors that has yet appeared at the Theatre Royal. Mr Emmet wiU appear on Monday evening in " Fritz," perhaps the most perfect of his trio of representations.

Mr J. A. Tole, Commissioner of Waste Lands, bus appointed to act as trustees and managers of the cemetery situate on allotment No. 9, of section 15, suburbs of Auckland, the following gentlemen :— Messrs G. W. Jones, E. Hartley, J. Chambers, E. Wayte, H. N. Warner, S. B. Biss, T. Buddie, and W. Graham. We have received a letter from Mr W. Kirby, threatening to expose a bank and manager, who, according to our correspon dent, have neglected to pay their wood and coal bill. A newspaper is hardly the place for such exposures, unless they come in the ordinary source through the Resident Magis trate's Court.

To the Editor : Sir,--" A Lover of Music's " remarks in last night's Star, re the Choral Hall concert, regarding the voice of Mr C. Harding, occasioned a controversy between a few other lovers of music, which

ended in a bet being made, which we wish you to decide in this evening's paper, if possible. A bets B that Mr C. Harding's voice is in all respects similar to Sims Reeves, whilst B bets that it strikingly resembles Mr Gordon's, of the Carandini Company.—Yours etc., PLEASE DECIDE.— [Both are so wide of the mark in their choice of types, that we decide the bet off. Sims Reeves is a very light, line, flexible tenor, and Harry Gordon a full bass. Mr Harding's high baritone voice ranges as nearly midway between them as may be—Ed E.S.]

The excursion to Riverhead, as previously announced for Good Friday, will not take place. The hours of starting for Waiwera, of the Annie Mil bank and Lily stean_ers,oii

Saturday and Monday, are duly advertised elsewhere. His Honor Mr Justice Gillies, dcliveicd judgment in the Supreme Court in the case of Badhamv. Hill, an appeal by plain tiff against a decision of the Resident Magistrate, lining the appellant £25 for an alleged false declaration under the Customs Act. The arguments in this case were fully reported in a recent issue, when his Honor reserved judgment. His Honor upheld the appeal witli costs, which virtually quashes the conviction established against Mr Badham.

Those who desire cheap bargains in drapery will be prompt to take advantage of an opportunity seldom presented, and which will be afforded by the sale of Stewart and Anderson's wholesale stock of drapery and clothing, which will commence on Saturday next, at Messrs Cosgrave and Go's. The stock is large and varied, con-

tabling well-solcctcd goods of every kind for all sorts of people, and the reductions which have been made in order to effect a speedy clearing of the stock arc such as will astonish and delight buyers. Wc publish in our fourth page to-day a report of tin* presentation of prizes at City West School No. 2 last evening, of the proceedings of the City Council after wc went to press last evening, an account of the recent Davenport rope-tying feats on the occasion of a wager, and servcral letters to the editor.

Within the last few weeks there lias been a regular influx of southern capitalists into Auckland. The famous cattle breeder, Mr Knntham of Christchurch, lias purchased Messrs Reynold's model farm near Cam brklgo, and is to start a northern breeding establishment there. Studholmc of Canter bvry is iurcrcstcd with Messrs Russell and Young in the Raglan run. Mr Jenkins, of Christclmrch has just completed thi* purchase from Messrs Morrill of a large tract of land in th_ Piako, and we also learn that Mr F. Strange, of Christchurch,

has purchased a considerable area in the same neighbourhood. Mr Cholmondcley, of Christchurch, has bought the Tc Mime block from the Hon. James Williamson, and Mr Ol'bell, of Otago, is said to be on the look out for a heavy la id investment in the North. All these arc men of substance who can write their cheques for thousands as easily as for a shilling. It is therefore very gratifying, and also reassuring for the future, to sec them identifying themselves with Auckland interest. We can only hope that they will not repent their invest ments, but will send such accounts of their success to the south, that others may be induced to follow their example.

The case of Joseph Thomson, a bankrupt, came before tho Supreme Court yesterday, Avlien the Attorney-General stated that the application lie proposed to make Avould be

affected by a decision of the Court respect ing the legality of proxies. His Honor said liis decision Avas that one man, Avhether a creditor or not—could not constitute a meet ing by the mere fact of his holding the proxies of creditors. A " meeting" must consist of more than one person. Mr Whitakcr said he would make the intended application on a future day.

On Tuesday evening a Aery pleasant Good Templar soiree Avas held in the Choral Hall, Onehunga, and after the good things, bountifully provided for the lower part,of our nature had been discussed, an interest ing^ programme was presented, in songs, recitations, and addresses by friends of the Temperance cause. The entertainment Avas of an excellent character, and the good arguments brought to bear upon the audi ence by Messrs Brame and Taylor, of Auck land, are sure to be productive of good results.

IVe have the best authority for saying that there is no foundation whatever for the statement that Mr Yon der Heyde is likely to be a candidate for City West.

Mr Lippiatt, of Remuera, has favoured us with a number of the most glorious dahlia blooms ever grown in New; Zealand. He has, Aye learn, now in his nursery no fewer than 300 to 400 destinct varieties, and about 5000 seedlings. He has also 5000 seedUngs of the various varieties of the rose, in the cultivation of which Mr Lippiatt has left all competitors behind. We learn that owing to the expiration of his lease of the nursery the Avhole of this stock avi'U be offered for sale between the present date and the Ist of June.

Messrs Holmes Bros, are charging single fare betAveen Auckland and the Thames,_or return tickets between tliis date, and April 7th, Saturday Aveek, same being available for either of their boats.

The Auckland cricket team avill proceed to the Thames on Saturday afternoon by the Rotomaliana, leaving the wharf at 3 p.m. The match Avill be played on Easter Monday, and from the following names, it may be conjectured Auckland Avill prove equal to the occasion. The team avi'll comprise Messrs Kent, Cotton, W. Philson, McLean, Mason, Nolan, Cameron, SAvaii.on, Pilling, J. Macky, and BroAVning.

A paper by Captain J. S. Hay, on the horned men of Africa, was read at the recent met-tin^-of the British Association, He also exhibited two sketches of Africans Avith horns, Mr Hyde Clarke said it was very difficult to assign any reason for the appearance of horns, but there was no doubt that Captain Hay had seen them One way might be that they had been inserted or inneculated into the face but Captain Hay informed him that it Avas the obiect of the parents to romoA _ the horns Avhich ho regarded ns a natural groAvth' One suggestion Avas that this was a oase of malformation of Avhioh there was a memorable example in the case of the "porcupine man" who nad horny plaits on various parts of hi. body. He had not heard from anybody any sufficient explanation with regard either to its being a natural phenomenon arising at birth, or its being artificially produced in the manner to Avhich he had referred, it .vas remarkable that ' the horns Avero peculiar to tho male sex. The subject was very obacuro, and had not been sufficiently Investigated by anthropoloai.tg, because tteue were great prqjudioea ta takW I

The Moanatairi Specimens.

The casual observer of the scene presented at the Bank of New Zealand this morning might have supposed that there was a run upon that institution, or that the late dividend in the Moanatairi had produced such a plethora of floating capital that thousands of respectable citizens were rushing to the Bank of New Zealand to lighten their bloated pockets of the golden fruits of lucky investments. From ten o'clock until mid-day, there was a continuous stream of hetero genous humanity, elbowing its way in and out of the main entrance, and the tesselated marble floor of the hall was worn by the feet of a bustling, eager crowd. Addison's Bridge of Mirza was nothing to it. An unsophisticated child of the Flowery Land, on the other side of the street, set down his load of vegetables, paused to contem plate the unwonted scene, and gravely inquired of one of our staff what particular feast day it was in the calendar of the sons of the West, that they were making a pilgrimage to their great joss Mammon. When it was explained to him by the aid of pigeon English that the excite ment was all about two pieces of stone, the innocent Mongolian shook his head sadly, took up his load, and walked oil', exclaiming in broken accents, "No savoy." But the excitement was not altogether confined to the stones themselves, but to a pale yellow substance, that glitttered through and through them,|and whiehlit up the glistening eyes of the motley crowd that gathered round to admire. There were young men and maidens, old men and —we forgot the quotation, but everybody and his wife came to see the wonderful specimens, and tiie physiognomist might have found many subjects for interesting data in the varying expressions on the faces of the beholders. The shareholder was easily recognised by the beaming smile that suffused his countenance, and readiness to expatiate to inquirers upon the marvellous beauty and symmetry of the two pieces of rock, and the inexhaustible supply thereof yet to come. The disappointed speculator was equally recognizable by the air of gloomy sadness with which he contem plated the evidences of his own short sightedness and timidity. " Ah," exclaimed a clerical-looking person, wiping away a struggling tear with the back of his hand, " I could have bought a hundred Moana tairis a few weeks ago for 13s. Fact, I assure you, sir,—but it's just like my luck." The wives of several shareholders came to gaze and gusli over the materials for the prospective family plate, and it will not be the fault of those sharp-sighted females if they do not contrive to make an early call on their milliners on the strength of it. This is what comes of letting one's wife into the secret of the business. A young lady attempted to lift one of the glittering lumps, but was fain to desist in that blushing discomfiture and weakness which always renders the sex so charming, and causes the manly waistcoat to palpitate with protecting impulses. In less than ten minutes ir>Q persons had viewed those wondrous specimens and gone on their several ways to meditate on the fickleness of Dame Fortune. Not until the hour came when the inner man claimed attention, was the stream diverted to other scenes, where knives and forks clattered, and all and sundry congregate to enjoy the frugal repast. Meantime 'Change was the scene of much eager discussion and interest, which forcibly recalled the light of other days, when a halo of aureas beams shed its rays upon the now somewhat dusky and cobwebbed lairs of the brokers, the golden inscriptions whereof are bedizened and dimmed by the hand of time. Let ns hope that ere long those inscriptions will appear in a new garb, and that there will be joy in the house of Change But Aye are reminded that it is time to descend to plain matter of fact, and the horrors of statistics. The specimens, then, have been found to weigh exactly 1155 ozs. and which is four ounces more than an erring contemporary stated them at, and an experienced assayer estimates the gold they contain at be tween fiOO and SOO ounces, which, on the whole, must be a consolation to the minds of shareholders.

The folloAving telegrams Avere posted up at the Company's ollice this morning :—

March 29, 8.55 a.m. Half a ton of fine specimens just broken, leaving very good slioav in face. Gold on hand Avill be banked, and result telegraphed this morning.

9.58 a.m. Return of gold for three days, just banked.—s2so ozs.

CABLEGRAMS.

[PRESS AGENCY.]

Illness of Prince of Wales.

-.umours of "War.

Illness of tlis Pops.

LONDON

March 27th. The departure of the Prince of Wales for he Mediterranean is deferred through ill ness. Montenegro has broken off the negotia tions with Turkey. The health of the Pope is causing anxiety.

Important Wool Telegram.

(From Our Oavu Correspondent)

Mr Cargill has received the folloAving London telegram dated 20th:—"Wool sales closed dull Avithout further change in prices .on the November advance. The last prices were as loav as the closing sales of the third series of last year in August. Prices for superior classes only were Aveli maintained. The general scale of trade is unsatisfactory, and there is no confidence in the future. The quantity AvithdraAvn .vas 38,000 bales, included in which are 380,000 bales expected for next sale.

[PRESS AGENCY.]

THE RUSSIAN PRESS ON DISHON OUR OR WAR.

AGITATION FOR RESTORATION OF MIDHAT PASHA.

Tl,n "P ■ L°NDON, March 26th. Ihe Russian Press accuses England of leaving Russia no other choice butT dishon our or Avar. uu __i&^i w'^t,^te^'^rf

THE MURDEROUS ASSAULT CASE.

(To the Editor of the Evening Star.) Sir,—An error, as crept into your report of the above case, tried at the Police Court _Sft&- honCe m *™™™ for thislette The following occurs in the commencement the prisoner who, when the charge was read out, said he wished for a remanf ___h« wanted to get another solicitor. Now Kr the impression which such a statement i« Mr McGrath'g .oloitor, and that h-Li.S I Mr Laishley had been retaiued in th_> <W instance to defend the rnitml f, s. appeared twice for him y £l' ' M ¥_

represent him, but McGr__TC_P =:55 pay Mr Laishley his fS '!>* to appearance, preferring, as he sa id\ Btt* duct the case himself. Subserm. +, °°n- Laishley informed him tha. s»' * him undefended lie would not S ÜBe 6 another fee, but McGrath"seel uif "*» ' and would not consent. When th. durate. calledon,pri S oner appliedfora remLT/ _?» purpose of engaging a solfciff l^* > explained to the Court the cire.™ . thea why he was unrepresented anSI i „nc, es Court, I not being i_ the case a ?Jft % _ this time- About an hour afterward,, I® "' mg business at the Police Court IS hay" when I was asked by the prisoner t „med> for him. Dr PhihWand £__^2ft been examined m chief at this time I _ d not trouble you with this explanation°vd that the report in your valuable pane.l l, _ ! to injure me in my practice, (by maki*^. appear that the prisoner was not satS several persons having already draw, attention to the paragraph.—Cha.t.l'T1 Madden.-March 29,1877. HARLIs &

CITY OF LONDON GOLD MINING COMPANY.

The annual meeting of thi3 Company w_,i, _ to-day in Mr Garland's offices. Wffl/__* ton, Esq. in the chair. The Director's an. toi 8* Manager's report and balance sheet Wert 4>.2 and adopted. The report stated thatth«n_? d tions of the Company had been limited a & returns unsatisfactory, as compared with ,T 8 ceeding years. A new level has bee_JmJ?_ during the year, at a cost of £I,ol6,«ffl_?2S_ unfavourable results, so muoh so thai t meetnmrrent expenditure, the greater porHn. of which was for drainage, tho Dir4tn were compelled to call up nearly all a available capital of tho Company -rS c manager's report gave a full account of nT operations of the p ast year, and of the pro.niiii? ties of greater success in the future. Thp rm_" in hand was £173 9s 3d ; material in stock __i 14s, besides machinery and other proucrtip. Tho retiring directors. Messrs West on andStrvn. were re-elected, and Mr W. S. Laurie was; m appointed auditor to the Company. A vote n thanks to the chairman completed the business

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before G. Yon der Heyde Esq., J.p.j PLEASURE AND PAIN. Nicholas Stanton, Joseph Robinson William Gray, were convicted of drunken! ness, and fined witli the usual unpleasant alternative. A charge of receiving stolen goods, value £12, was preferred against a woman named Elizabeth Simmons, alias Hughes, but was adjourned to Saturday next, in the absence of the principal witness at Wangapoua. The prisoner's bail was extended. ANOTHER WIFE BEATING CASE. Jno. A. Hjorth, charged with assaulting his wife, was remanded to Otahuhu, the case to be heard on the 3rd April. EDUCATION RATES. Several Education Rate cases appeared on the sheet, but no one appearing to prosecute, they were struck out.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE'S COURT - THIS DAY.

(Before R. C. Barstow Esq. R.M.) JUDGMENTS FOl. PLAINTIFFS.

HcAvin and Bro. v James Carlylc,—claim £23 Is 9d, goods, costs £3 10s. HeAviii and Bro. v Henry Parslow, —claim £12 7s Id goods, costs £2 7s, (Mr Thorne for plaintiff)" Wm. Echvards A' John Waymouth jun. — claim £7, Avork, costs ISs. John Matts'on v. Chas. EdAvards, —claim £5, bread, for payment of which defendant gaA. a 1 promissory note,Avhich had been dishonored. ■ John Mattson v EdAvard Laird,—claim £% bread, costs 14s in the former case, and 18s in the latter. Wm. Easdown vG. Evans,—claim £2 10s, costs £1 4s 6'd, (Mr Duf anr for plaintiff), 7s (id a Aveek. \V. D.' | Veale v Wm. J. Young,—claim £4 10s, | promissory note, costs 14s. ...'

E. R. Gibson v Morton and Chambers.— Claim £39 14s 2d, wages. Mr Thorne for - plaintiff, and Mr Lusk for defendant. Edward T. Brissenden, deposed that plain tiff was in his employ up to Christmas of i last year, first at 20s, and subsequently at 1 30s per Aveek. He left when he handed' over some property at the beginniug of I January. Messrs Morton and Chambers ■were appointed trustees to his estate under a a deed of assignment. Mr Gibbous had . been employed by the trustees in winding . up the estate, collecting debts and so forth,: . and he believed that he did his -work.., well, always appearing energetic and' straight-forward. He was "" indebted 1 to him under the deed.—Edwin R. Gibson, '■' plaintiff, deposed that at the time of deed of assignment being made, he was employed in the store at Taipari, and when he spoke to Mr Brissenden about money matters, le said "you had better stop on, and the 7, trustees will pay you ; his wages were 3054 a week. He saw Mr Morton subsequently in his office in Queen-street, and Mr Morton asked him to continue, and he would see that his back wages were paid. He con* I tinued on accordingly. Mr Chanibers was ' not present, and he believed Mr Chambers was not aware of the engagement. He claimed for a months' Avagcs, going back wards and forwards to Taipari, and a Aveek's notice—To Mr Lusk: The only time he saAV Mr Morton Avas at his office in Queen*, street, 'when he asked for money, Mr m Morton said, "there's the door, clear out." James Morton, one of the defendants, ; deposed that a Mr Nayscr acted in the' , Waikato for the trustee, and that he had authority to employ Gibson. William English, knew both the plaintiffs and Mr- « Nayser, and heard the latter say that m Gibson AA'ould be paid by. the trustees. Mr. Lusk addressed the Court for the defence, | and admitted tAvo items in the account, and rejected the others. Mr Morton state that plaintiff's term of employment by the trustees closed before the 7th February, | but no promise Avas made to pay Avages previously due from Brissenden. He did not dispute that plaintiff's claims of £5 Us Bd, and £3 los, Avere fair charges for labour Avhile in the trustees' employ ; but he con- 4 tended that Mr Gibson had paid himself'"' out of monies received by him on account r of the estate. Indeed, he believed that if V, accounts Avere properly made up, the plain* tiff Avould be indebted to the trustees.

(Left Sitting.)

Kaipara.

[PER STAR CARRIER PIGEON,]

Thursday, 10 a.m. The Julia F. Carney for Adelaide, Torea;,... Onward, and Marion for Lyttelton, mm clear out over the bar. A vessel is in sight to the northward; 4,' The wind is southerly, Avith a smooth batyl and clear weather.

ELLERSLIE GARDENS.

liie following are the handicaps for the Wff closed races at the Athletic Festival, to be helo 5 c at the Ellerslie Gardens on Monday next :— _ . 150 YARDS JIANDICAP. 13. DonoA ran scratch E. McGmley , .. scratch In. Goav ~ ~.~ .. 2 yds. J.Martin .. .. ..2 vdsi, R. Gault .. .. ~ ~2. yds* L. J. Nelson ~ , 3 yds; a J. Carpenter < ... J"dßi W. Mettam .. „ it ~ _ yds. T.Mclniny 5 yds <w ' J. Baker 5 y<l*___i J. Jones , ..5 yds. W. Harris .. .. ~ 5 ydsi J. B. Bull (( 5 ydsi . F. Dalton 5 yds"!'; H. Palmer , 5 yd(. T.Lucas .. ~ ~ ~6 y«A4 T' W. Dickinson ,6 .vds< A. Kelly ~ ~ „ 8 yds. Neil Whisker 8 yd*. ... _ ONE MILE HANDICAP. . . W. S. Fagon , scratch L. J. Nelson 10 yds. E, MoGlnley .0 yjs« .p. Dono\'an ~ ~ •,, ~40 ym it. OsfJjeuter flQ.J*}* _L Phillip a ~ eoivfe fB. Huir . ~ : . m >1*» A n_iV% '» »» U »» MS f

THE EVENING STAR, THURSDAY, MARCH 39, 1877.



THE PHCENIX FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY OF LONDON. Established a Century, during which time it has Paid in Claims, Eleven Millions Sterling. Head Office : Lombard-street. AGENCIES THROUGHOUT THE WORLD. _lanagin_ Directors : Sir John Lubbock, M.P. (Robarts, Lubbock, and Co., Bankers, Lombard-street. Kirkman Hodg3on,Esq., M.P. (Director of Bank of England). Octavius Coope. Esq., M.P. .. Secretaries: G. W. Lovell and P. M. Broomfield. The undersigned is now prepared to effect INSURANCES at Loavest Current Rates. THOMAS H. MABIN, Superintendent for New Zealand. Office: LoAver Queen-street, Opposite Fort-street. A UTUMN AND WINTER, -**■- 1877. Yt The undersigned are Noav Opening Up a Large lot of NEW GOODS, for the incoming Season's Trade, comprising— NOVELTIES IN DRESS MATERIALS (Neav Patterns). Winceys, neAV shades, extra width, and un usual good A ralue, from 6_d. Black Lustres, Merinoes, Satin Cloths, &c. __r FLANNELS ! FLANNELS ! '-©ft Flannels all makes, white and coloured. All wool and Union Crimean Shirting All wool Plaids, &c. A Very Choice Lot of NEW LINEN GOODS— Linen Sets, Collars and Cuffs, in great variety, new shapes and cheap. Alloa and Fingering Yarn, plain and fancy colours. TWO B .LSS CHEAP GREY CALICO, 30in. 3d. per yard ; 36in., l.d. per yard. Specially suited for Hoti. c Lining; superior to Scrim, and cheaper. Black StraAV Hats, New Ribbons, Flowers, and Trimmings, Skirts, Umbrellas, Jackets, and Waterproof Mantles, all sizes. THE CLOTHING DEPARTMENT is aJso avcll stocked with Boys' and Men's Clothing, in great variety. A New Lot of Men's Printed Moles, good patterns Men's White Moleskin Trousers, a good line, at 7/6 per pair, i-eaily cheap .Belts, Braces, Collars, Scarfs, Ties. Hats and Caps, and other Goods too numerous to particularise, 2__- One Shilling in the _? returned on all Cash aPurohasesof 20s. and upAVftvd.. RURHREOQK & BRI'DGM&N, junction drapery warehouse, <Qpj>osite the Army and Navy Hotel. _' i '



pOTTIES SCOTTISH OILS EXTRAORDINARY DISCOVERIES. LUMBAGO, RHEUMATISM, GOUT, BAD LEGS, DEFORMED FEET AND HANDS, PILES, &0. THE SCOTTISH HIGHLAND OIL is immediately obsorbed into the Blood, chang ing its dull black hue into a brilliant red, pos sessing a delicate nervous force, which may be felt as a tremulous motion in the muscles, which often instantly relieves a great many painful disorders, which render life unbearable. POTTIES SCOTTISH OIL Will be found invaluable in nearly every in stance, and for colonial use is one of the best Medicines ever introduced, especially in the following cases :— TRAVELLERS, who have to shift from bed to bed. SURVEYORS, who are exposed to bush vermin day and night. SHOOTING PARTIES, exposed to tho tor ments of the tick. Members of Cricket, Rowing, and Football Clubs, and Athletes, May with greet advantage use it for tho muscles of the arms and limbs, nibbing night and morn ing. It renders those muscles elastic and firm : should the muscles be sore a good dressing will give immediate relief, and prevent the distres sing effects of stiffness, &c. POTTIES SCOTTISH OIL. A slight dressing night and morning will give complete immunity from fleas, mosquitoes, sand flies, ticks, and all kinds of bush vermin. The Oil when rubbed in all over the body or hands and face, dries at once, leaving a beautiful gloss on the skin, which, while it feels highly agree able, forms a perfect barricade. POTTIES HORSE AND CATTLE MEDICINES. __r Agent for Auckland— AICKIN, CHEMIST, QUEEN-STREET. J. COSGRAVE & OO.'S G RE A T SALE of Messrs. Stewart & Anderson's Wholesale Stock of DRAPERY AND CLOTHING will commence on SATURDAY, the 31s. March. The ivhole of that Valuable and Extensive Stock xoxll be offered to the Public at Extraordinary Reductions. ~VT O T I C E J. W. PEARSE INTENDS HOLDING A CHEAP CLEARING OUT SALE OF HIS LARGE AND VALUABLE STOCK OF GENERAL DRAPERY, READY-MADE CLOTHING, And FANCY GOODS, 82T At a Very Great Reduction ! Sale to Commence on SATURDAY, 3rd March. No Credit Given. [Closed on Friday to Mark Down the Stock. J7TZ7 RNITURE! FURNITURE Ladies a.id Gent enien about to Famish are respect fully requested to inspect the Large Stock of DRAWING-ROOM, DINING-ROOM BEDROOM, A ND GENERAL HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, In our New and Spacious Shoivrooms. T. & K'COOKB, 67, QUEEN-STREET Adjoining Rank of N'.w Zealand. TU S T ONE CASE OF " HYDE PARK SHAWLS, WHICH WILL BE SOLD VERY CHEAP. HYDE PATIKS, 3s. 9n.— Worth 9s. Gn. HYDE PARKS, ss. 9n.-Worth 12s. Gd. HYDE PARKS, 12s 6D.-Worth 225. Gd. W. RATTRAY, DRAPER AND CLOTHIER, 66, QUEEN-STBEET. Auckland pi R E T O N N E S! ! ! Large Assortment of Beautiful Patterns in CRETONNES Just Opened. FURNISH your House economically from the City Hall Arcade. _ FURNISH your Drawing-room from Holloway and Garlick's Choice Stock. , FURNISH your Dining-room, Kitchen, and Bedroom with substantial and Cheap Furniture. "DEDDINGI—AII made on the Premises. T>EDDlNG!—Guaranteed Genuine. BEDDING!— To lit all sizes Bedsteads and Cots. BEDSTEADS !—Half-tester, French, and Folding. BEDSTEADS —Iron, Wood, all sizes and prices. "OEDSTEAD Hangings made to order. INOLEUM!—The bast "overing for Floors of Halls, Dining, and Billiard Rooms. Unsurpassed for durability. LINOLEUM !—Especially prepared for Stairs, iust opened ex Loch Urr. ' LADIES AND~GENTLEMEN wanting Good and Cheap Furniture, Drapery, and Clothing, are invited to inspect Our Stock. Most Extensive Show-rooms in Auckland. HOLLOW AY~&~GARLICK, CITY HALL FURNISHING ARCADE, Queen-street and Lome-street. Auckland. MUTUAL LIFE ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALASIA. Incorporated by Act of Parliament. NEW. ZEALAND^ BRANCH: Head Oflice, Auckland- Local Director: George Burg _<_st_ Owen, E-rq. (Messrs. Owen and Graham.) Principal MediesJ Officer: f Charles Field Goldsbrct", SJ&cl, 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. ,1. BEbL, General Agent. 5T$, SPECIAL FKATUt'ES.—AGF, APMITTJSD Oil Policies, which are vnghau.anu.ujm. from date of issue. ■... , Lowest Ratks of Premiums, end no iumpjqh*



r\ U R PREMISES WILL BE CLOSED TO-MORROW (Thursday) & FRIDAY, FOR THE PURPOSE OF MARKING DOWN STEWART & ANDER SON'S STOCK. J. COSGRAVE & CO.



Rheumatic and Gout Cure, prepared by Shakland and Co., Opposite Post-offiec, Auck land. Made from Indian Recipe. One or two doses will relieve, two bottles will effect a cure. Its healing powers rarely ever fail. People far and near obtain it. Price. Is. Gd. a bottle. Atkinson's Perfumery and Specialities. Look out for shams in the shape of poisonous imitations of the People's favourite health beverage, Udot.iuio Wolfe's Sciiif.dam Aro matic SCHNAPPS. These detestublo swindles often bear counterfeit labels or names closely approximating to that of tho truo article. A close scrutiny should be brought to bear upon preparations purporting to be the real Schnapps.