SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

WTfi-TT w \ TWTt ' This Afternoon, 7.20 UU.H. WATER—j To _ morrow Mornillg 7.40 SUN SET.-This Evening, 5.34 SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning, 6.33

ARRIVALS.

Flirt, brigantine, from Lyttelton Hawea, s.s., Wheeler, from the South Active, schooner. Lane, from Wangaroa Queon, schooner, Jones, from Hokianga

DEPARTURES.

Hawea, s.s., Wheeler, for the South

_____!» EXPORTS. Per Loch Urr from London : 867 bales wool, 2 sneep skins, 1 bag wool. 97 casks tallow. 63 cases pearl shell.3 ,091 cases gum, 12 bags do., 25 casks do., 1 cask glue pieces, 2 tons 6 cwts. 2 quarters shank bones, 21 bags bones, 2 cases old metal, I>2 tons, and 893 bat.s manganese, 12 tons copra, (in bulk). 4 tanks oil, 5 casks do., 16 casks tail ings 2 boxes, 6 cases, 2 puncheons seeds, 7-1 bales leather, 19 cases do., 1 balo hair, 8.056 horns, 73 ingots zinc, 3 casks dross, 2 cases plants, 1 port manteau, 40 lanterns, 2 medicine chests, 3pumps. —.New Zealand Shipping Company, agents. 20 bales wool.—C. J. Stone, Ull cas^ tailings.— M. Niccol. 231 casks gum. 15 cases pearl shell.—Henderson and Macfarlane.

191 bales wool, 174 bales leather, 19 cases do.. 1 bale hau-, 10 bags bones, 8056 horns. Ireland Bros.

5 cases.—E. &H. Isaacs,

THE NORVAL.

messrs __.c_ai.un_ and McQuarry's latest eltort in tho art of shipbuilding is tho Norval, a, schooner of 56 tons register, which is now lying alongside the Qiieou-street wharf, in all the glory ot newness; her hull resplendent with fresh paints, dappled graining, and bright gild ing; th 3 maiden polish of her kauri spars yet undented; her wire standing rigging still shewing the gloss of the metal, and her running gear exhibiting tho white, soft, and silky appearance, which betokens veritable Manila. A nice, handy little craft is tho Norval, With moderately sharp entrance and rnn, and good flam, giving her bows a buoyant look. The most noticeable fault about the ship is that she is too short, a drawback wh*ch is likely to prevent her making very fast ocean passages. She is well built of the best materials, and like all tho vessels turned out by the same firm, is strongly and faithfully put together. Her dimensions are as follows: Length of keel, 62ft; breadth of beam, 18ft; depth o_ hold. 7ft 6in. Messrs H. F. Anderson and Co. supplied the rigging and general gear, Mr Boyd cut out the satis, Mr Inglis did the ironwork, and Mr Ross attended to the painting, gilding, and graining. Each one appears to have done his best in his individual sphere of action. Captain Murdock Mckenzie, late of tho Martha, is the owner of this neat li'tlo craft, and will himself take command. Her first voyage will be to Raro tonga and the Friendly Islands, and she will immediately load with timber, to be convoyed thither in a few days.

THE LOCH URR.

FThe barque Loch Urr cleared to-day for London, with a general cargo and tho following passengers: Messrs Alfred .Walker, C. M. Moorsom, J. E. M. Harrington, Chas. Grey, Richard Baunsall. Captain Murdoch expresses his intention to sail to-morrow morning at day- Ua6c_l_._

The Glenlora has all«her sails bent, and is nearly ready for sea. She will not be many days behind the Loch Urr. We understand there is some prospect of the ship Eilectra being laid on as the next vessel for London after the Glenlora. The brigantine Flirt arrived from Lyttelton bis afternoon with a cargo of grain. The schooner Gem brings 50 tons coals from Russell.

The schooner Queen, from Hokianga, brings 27 hams, 4 tons quinces. 1 ton gum. The ketch Adah from the Thames, via Wai heke, brings 42 tons manganese. The schooner Atlanta has cleared for Tairua. William and Julia, schooner, from the Thames Seagull, schooner, from Oamaru The h.s. Hawea arrived from the South yes terday. The following is the list of passengers : Rev. James and Mrs Wallis. Mr and Miss Hall, Mrs Elliott, and child, Miss Callaghan. Rev. Garlick, Father O'Sullivan, Messrs Jenkins, R. Smith, Surman, Suiter, Wilson, King. H. Brett, Lewis. Burns, Bender. Lawrie, Murray, Shar land, Wheeler, Leonard, Harden, McGill, Austin and 10 steerage.—Henderson and Macfarlane, agents.

A.barque and a schooner are coming in as we go to press. T,he barque will probably turn out to be the Emjjy Chaplin, now between 90 and 100 days ouflnmrLondon.

A large three-masted schooner, ready-masted and rigged, was launched thifj morning from Mr Ross' ship-budding yard in Freeman's Bay. She was originally intended for a steamer, but- when about half-finished, was purchased by Mr T. T. Masefield, and completed as a sailing vessel. She is built on the diagonal principle. Her rigging and sails were supplied by Captain I). H. Mc- Kenzie. Miss Margaret Masefield dexterously smashed a bottle of champagne over the bows as the vessel descended the ways, and gave h«r the name, Ellerton. The dimensions are as under: length. 89ft.; beam, 16ft. 6in. ; depth of hold, 7ft Cm. The launch was a great success, and in suite of the early hour (8 o'clock) was wit nessed by a respectable concourse of people. We understand that Mr Masefield intends her for the Southern trade unless some more profit able line presents itself.

The s.s Taranaki leaves New Plymouth at 4 o'clock this afternoon, and will arrive at Onehunga about 12 o'clock to-morrow. She leaves atcain for the South at 2 p.m. on Thursday 19th inst.

Tbe s.s. Hawea, Captain Wheeler, left One hunga at 11 o'clock this morning for Southern ports. Passengers: —Mr and Mrs Bull, Mr and Mrs Tudehope, Mr and Miss Bennett, Mr and Miss Slatter, Mesdames Hart, Bridger, Mace, White, Lye, Hegarty, Misses Silverthorn, Win nett, Scholls, Flannigan, Messrs Wright, Moore (2), Campion, Reddiford, Hoxsie, Abraham, Kummer, Mendlesohn, Barnes, Hay man, Galleway, Joynt, Lanigan, Lansom, Mahler. Davis, and 7 steerage.—Henderson and Macfarlane, Agent 3.

The new topsail schooner Active, to which we alluded in our issue Of Saturday as having been built at Wangaroa, arrived in harbour last night, and at the time we write is lying in the stream, above the Queen-street wharf. She is a le_gthy, strong-looking craft, of about 130 tons, with good sheer, and graceful, buoyant lines. She is 81ft. long on the keel, 22ft. broad in the beam, and lift, deep in the hold. She has a large house on deck for tbe accommoda tion of the officers. By the appearance of the Active, she should carry well, and be a fine sea boat. Her friends are equally confident of her sailing: abilities. The sails and rigging have been supplied by Mr Donald, and are of the best. The _.ctive, if not as finished a vessel as we have seen, has plenty of good honest work about her, and will outlast many flasher-looking craft. She brings a cargo of timber from Waugaroa. Messrs Lane and Brown will run her themselves, unless they can dispose of her to advantage.

The gunboat Reynard has been laid alongside the Gore-street ietty for the purpose of receiving some repairs to her rigging. The schooner William and Julia, arrived from the Thames in ballast to-day.

The cutter Mercury from Tairua, brings 21.270 feet timber, and the cutter Mana 25,800 feet from the same place.

The brig Albion has entered out for Melbourne via Hokianga, and the schooner Norval for Tonga.

The brigantine Sea Gull, which arrived from Oamaru on Saturday night, brings a cargo of grain and flour. She is consigned to Messrs Niceol and Hendry.

The keich Sovereign of the Seas is about to leave for the Islands, under command of Captain Schultze. She is taking in ballast to day, and will probably leave to-morrow morning.

AUCKLAND STOCK AND MINING REPORT.

Bank of New Zealand—£2o. National Bank—Buyers, 675. Colonial Bank—Buyers. 38s. Thames Gas—Buyers, 30s. South. British. Insurance—Buyers, 775. National Insurance—Buyers, 30s. Caledonian (double)— Sellers, 60s. City of London—Us 3d to 12s. Moanatairi—£9, £8 ; sellers, £8 10s. Waitekauri—2os; buyers 19s; sellers, 20s. Alburnia—2ss to 24s ; buyers, 22s 6d; sellers, 255.

Queen of May—26s. Union Beach—37s to 35s ; sellers, 365. pWaiotahi—Buyers, 255. ||Queen of Beauty—2os ; buyers, 20s; sellers, 21s, gKuranui HiU-32s 6d to 35s ; sellers, 3_s. Welcome—Seders, 7s. Piako—l7s to 20s ; sellers, 20s. ■_ am_? G-M--o.—Buyers, 10s; sellers, 57s 6d New Morning Star-6s to 6s 6d. Beuer8 ' °'s oa- Perseverance—Seders, 2s 6d. _ JOSEPH NEWMAN. Chairman

BIRTH.

BEAUMONT.— On the 12th instant, at her residence, Union-st' eet, the wife of Mr. George Beaumont, Butcher, of a daughter.

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

MONDAY, APRIL 16, 1877.

Tor the cause that lacks assistance!, J-"or tho wrong that needs resistance, .or the future in the distance, And the j;ood that we can do.

WAR, although not actually declared, is shewn by our cable messages to-day to. be inevitable. - Earl Derby has announced to the House of Commons that the reply of Turkey is against the maintenance of peace. Russian troops are already marching on Jassy, the capital of Moldavia, and thus within territory acknowledging the suzer ainty of the Sultan. The principal defence of the Turkish Generals will no doubt be on the line of the Danube, and although there may be some slight engagements in Roumania, we shall probably not hear of any decisive struggle until the Russian forces are concentrated at Galatz or one of the Danubian fortresses. The usual Avar panic or the London Stock Exchange, and fall in Consols has already taken place, but it is satisfactory to know that' the crisis is not accepted as indicating any danger to Australasia, and our securities remained unaffected through the prevailing uneasiness.

THE completion of the new hospital has raised a discussion on the best system of management, and there is, Aye believe, a general agreement among medical men that the system Avidely adopted in England, of placing the institution under an honorary medical staff, will prove the most advan tageous. A precisely similar agitation has been successfully directed towards the Dunedin hospital. since its transfer from provincial control, and Aye think that, if proper consideration is given to this scheme of management, its advantages must outweigh aU the objections that may be urged against it. In the conflicting, undetermined, and changing state of medical practice, hospitals, rightly controlled, fill other offices than those benevolent pur poses to which their establishment is pri marily due. In large asylums for the care of the sick from disease or accident, AA rhere repre sentative cases of every species of disease or Avound are brought side by side, Aye have the very best test ground of medical practice, and a centre from which should* radiate medical knowledge of the utmost possible value to the whole community not less than to the patients AA'hose misfortunes engage the care and skill of a combination of phvsiciains. It is utterly mistaken to

suggests, that youngstudents alone can derive advantage from walking the hospitals. There is, we opine, uo medical man so lost in self-complacancy as to claim infallibility for his judgment or despise opportunities of testing his own treatment by that of other practitioners. We apprehend that sensible doctors never lose the character of students, and every medical man in the city, dealing with disease developed under different climatic and hygienic influences than those deve loped in England, has, doubtless, frequ ontly felt the dis-advantage of having here no test which he can apply to his-treatment. A glance at the benefit which hospital visitation would confer upon1 tho pro fession will convince anyone that there is no reason to fear that the proposed plan would break down in Auckland from any unwillingness of medical men to give their attention gratuitously. If three doctors chosen yearly by election from the duly qualified members of the profession practicing in the city were appointed to visit the hospital on alternate days, and had separate wards assigned thorn, it is patent that the treatment of diseases would become emulative and comparative ; and the medical staff, and through them the whole profession, and beyond them again the city, would benefit from an invaluable source of information now completely locked up. Those who know anything at all of medical practice are aware of tho avidity with which all doctor., who go beyond the mere A.B.C. of the profession, avail themselves of every opportunity of attempting a diagnosis of what is known as an "interesting" case. And this eagerness has created a keen competition for honorary place on an hospital surgical staff, wherever the system has been adopted. It is not necessary to the establishment of this system that the present modical arrangements should be wholly subverted. The constant atten dance of a house surgeon, acting as dispenser, cannot be saved under any scheme of honorary supervision over a large hospital. Our confidence in nurses, how ever ripe their experience, and confidential their former positions as aids to the physician, would not warrant us in leaving a large institution for the sick entirely under the care of unskilled persons for the greater part of the 24 hours. The present ollice of nouse-surgeon would be indispensable; and it is needless to say that the ripe experience and acknowledged skill ot the present surgeon io the hospital and gaol could not be spared, and the whole institution thrown on a new and untried machinery. By the appoint ment of Dr. Pliil.son as Chief Surgeon and Consulting Physican, the new system might be developed under his control, the honorary surgeons being of course awarded distinctly defined duties and independent privileges. The general affairs of the new institution will, we believe, never prove completely satisfactory until placed under the direction of a non-professional Board of Management or Committee, partly elective from the subscription roll, which must soon be created for the support of this and oth .r charitable institutions, and partly nominated to protect the interests of the Government. In dealing with a matter of this kind, it is evident that public opinion and the Govern ment might be guided very much by an ex pression from the medical profession, and as the subject has now been fairly brought on the table, we would suggest that the city and suburban practitioners should meet to ventilate their views on the subject.

The Licensed Victuallers, at the meet ing held on Thursday last, discussed the Sunday-trading question. Amongst other plans, it was proposed to rigidly adhere to the law against liquor-selling on the Sabbath, and to appoint a Vigilance Connpittee to see that the agreement was scrupulously carried out. There are three points which arc likely to suggest themselves to tlie mind of anyone who considers what is in volved in the above proposal. In the first place it clearly admits, what everyone was perfectly well aware of already, that the law relating to Sunday selling is extensively violated ; in the second, that nothing short of a Vigilance Committee, composed of those very men who are most familiar with the devices resorted to by the publicans, would be sufficient to prevent secret breaches of the law ; and thirdly, the proposal amounts to a con fession that the more respectable of the Licensed Victuallers themselves would be glad to see the Sunday liquor selling put down. Regarding the matter in this light, we cannot but regret that the proposal was not adopted, although, singulary enough, it emanated from one of the very men who had most profited by the Sunday trade. We believe, however, that the proposition was not suggested by a pare unadulterated feeling of unselfish regard for public morality, but something very different. A large section of the Licensed Victuallers find the vigilai\ce of the police, and the consequent frequency of detection, very great hindrances to that flourishing back-door trade which flows in on Sundays ; •while, on the other hand, there is another section, who, owing to the situation of their houses, regard for respectability, fear of the consequences a desire of rest on the Sabbath, or envy of their less scrupulous rivals would be glad to see the law enforced. But the ruling motive is undoubtedly based upon the cal culation that by closing all public-houses on Sunday, public feeling would be aroused and pressure brought to bear upon the Legislative to amend the Licensing Act, so as to legalize the opening of the houses during certain defined hours on the Sabbath. A similar plan was tried in Melbourne, and it failed .signally, Tiie calculations of the publicans were realised' in one respect, but they produced other, results which were neither foreseen nor desired. The Police were enabled to state that the closing of public-houses on Sunday had produced a marked increase of sobriety in the community, that crime and social suffering were sensibly diminished, and the moral tone of the people visibly improved. So far as the public was concerned, it sub mitted to the fiat of the Licensed Victual lers without a murmur, and would probably have learned in course of time to appreciate the change so highly that it -would have been disposed to go a step further than the publicans. It was the originators of the scheme who first gave in. Some of their number continued—as men will do where the temptations to make large profits are great—to sell on Sundays, and to baffle the watchfulness of the Vigilance Committee, who in turn suddenly manifested repugnance to discharge the obnoxious duties of public informers. Thus the plan broke down, and Sabbath drunken ness resumed its sway, with the usual accompaniment of increased charge sheets at the Police Courts on Mondays. For our own part, we do not think that any of these shifts will reform the palpably enormous evils of the Sunday liquor traffic. If it is to be suppressed at all, it Avill be from without, and not by any mock professions of self abnegation on the part of the publican?. The most direct and most efficacious remedy is to rigidly enforce the law without respect to persons, and to inflict heavy penalties Avhere convictions are established. It is not fair to condemn the law because it is per mitted to remain practically a dead letter in the Statute book, because justices, influenced by personal friendships and private in terests.' shrink from the performance of their duties. If.the law is faulty, or a sec tion of the Justices regard it as too severe, it will not be amended by laxity and im proper partiality on the Bench. Such a course is only calculated to encourage the growth of greater evils by creating a disre gard for law, and a belief that it can be evaded at will. Until tho Licensing Act

the duty of the Bench is to enforce its pro visions without regard to personal opinions, private friendship, or less unselfish con siderations.

In " Feathers and Chaff " in the "Wai kato Times," under the head of " Decidedly inappropriate," we find the following amusing story :—"lt was at one of the Good Templar Saturday night entertain ments, where goody-goody songs and recita tions were en regie, where the devil and the Licensed Victuallers were placed in the same category, and alcohol was denounced as ' pizen.' One young lady had warbled in mellifluous tones the 'Old Oaken Bucket,' amidst tumultous applause, and a gentleman had sung in deep baas sevonteen stanzas in praise of 'cold water.' There was a alight lull in the harmonious proceed ings—a brothor A. 8.C., X.Y.Z., etc., who had promisod to give ' I never drink hard, for it don't suit mo" was not up to time. The audience was getting impatient, when Ja dapper man-o'-war's nian at the far end of the hall volunteered to fill the breach, and was received with demonstrations of delight. As he moved forward, it was remarked that there was a slight unsteadiness in his gait, but this was attributed to his inusitation to terra fiiuia. When, however, he mounted the platform, and the light of the gas streamed down upon his visage, illumi nating his ample nose like the roseate flush of a summer sunset, there were dubious whisperings among the audience. He cleared his throat for a mighty effort, and broke forth in stentorian tones with " Push the Grog About, Boys." The re mainder of the song was drowned amidst roars of laughter. The chairman, in blunt tones, intimated that the song was slightly incompatible with the strictly temperance character of the meeting, Jack, apologised, and explained that he had mistaken the affair for a free and easy. Ho volunteered " One bottle more " as a compromise, but tho chairman re marked that perhaps it woulc be just as well to postpone it until a later stago, and the tar, evidently puzzled, retired from the stage, and went over to the pub across the street ; and later in tho evening, when the audience was dispersing homewards, I grieve to say that their earn were saluted by tho profane words of " Push the grog about " wafted on tho evening breeze from tho vicinity of the obnoxious bar." o The meeting of the journeyman bakers at the British Hotol, on Saturday evening, was largely attended. The business of the meeting chiefly was to receive a reply from the Thames Society, respecting the amal gamation of tho Auckland [and Thames societies; Mr Gracie, however, had not received the expected answer, consequently the meeting was adjourned,'and the remain ing hour spent in harmony.

The Rev. Father Rice, who has lately arrived from Ireland, via Australia, preached to a crowded congregation at St. Patrick's Cathedral last evcnii.g. The subject of discourse was perhaps the most profound that could possibly have been chosen, viz., " The Last General Judgment," which was treated by the rev. gentleman in an able and impressive manner. At the conclusion of his discourse, Father Rice made an appeal on behalf of St. Mary's Orphanage, Ponsonby, and in doing so spoke in high terms of the management of that institution. Since he left the old country, some eighteen months ago, lie had visited the whole of the Australian colonies, and he had not seen a liner or better conducted institution than St. Mary's Orphanage. It was really a credit to the people of Auckland, and he hoped they would sustain it. A liberal response was made to the rev. gentleman's appeal.

The opening services in connection with the new schoolroom of the Wcsleyan Church, 1 -tt-Mtreet, were held yesterday. Rev. B. J. Westbrooke preached, in the morning, from Phillippinns c. 3 v. 8, and in the evening Rev. R. Taylor preached from St. Luke c. 15 v. 2. The afternoon address was delivered by Rev. S. Garlick, and was •well attended by teachers and young people. The collections for the day realised £27 Ss. The soiree will be held to-morrow evening, with addresses and musical accompani ments.

Captain Burns requests the attendance of the ollicers of the Volunteer Companies of the city at the Drill-shed, this evening, when the preparod address will be presented to Major Gordon, late commander of the Volunteer forces. We understand that Major Gordon purposes visiting Fiji.

Wc have received from the School o: Mines, Victoria, a copy of the report o: the Rallarat School of Mines, with state ment of receipts and expenditure.

The Newmarket Highway Board lias received from the Government no reply to the telegram sent, which desired information as to the payment of the Road Board subsidies, now overdue.

Father Nivard having written to the Thames, from India, pointing out the dreadful sufferings and privations suffered by the people amongst whom he is labouring, Mr Dillon called a public meeting, at which it was resolved to open a subscription. The sum of £12 13s 6'd was raised in the room.

Mr. Watkins was the conductor of the c hoir at the celebration of Captain Rattray's golden wedding, on Friday evening, and n ot Mr. Marson, as Avas enonieously st ated. .

Mr. Dornwell will give a dinner in his newly opened public hall at 8 o'clock this evening, and a large number of invitations have been issued.

There was a crowded audience at the Theatre Sunday Services yesterday. Ad dresses were delivered by the Rev. Mr Cag hill and Mr Utting. The collections amounted to £1 IDs Bd. The Committee would request the friends to come a little earlier, as late-comers distract attention very much.

The funeral of the late Thomas Alhvood, Avas folloAved to the grave yesterday, by a large number of sympathising friends. He Avas borne by the members of the 1.0.0., and Carpenters Society, of both of Avliich Lodges he Avas a member. Bro Alhvood avus liked aiid respected, and his voice and opinions will long be remembered in the Lodge rooms of which he avus a member. His death is another instance of the uncer tainty of life. Tavclvc months ago, Bro Alhvood looked like one Avhose life you could take a lease of, but by the will of God he caught a severe cold when folloAving his occupation, Avhich brought on' consump tion, to Avhich disease he gradually suc cumbed and finally expired on Friday.

The Thames Borough Council has resolved to euforce the license fee from sharebrokers, and to use its influence during the next Session of Parliament to obtain greater pro tection for the sharebrokers.

Cambridge Avill become the head-quarters of the Armed Constabulary from the 30th June next.

The Aveekly return of the Auckland Lunatic Asylum, slioavs the number of inmates to be 167.

Mails for the Australian Colonies, per Ringarooma, close at 11 a.m. to-morrow (Tuesday) at the Bluff.

There Avere 82 inmates of the Hospital on Saturday last.

The latest Court news is that King TaAV hiao has gone to KaAvliia.

Pooley and Bramhall, on leaving Lyttel ton, were presented Avith a purse of 50 soa.., and Pooley with a gold ring.

We have to thank the Government Printer for the Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, and other _??4is.H. .tttary $?sm*

Mr Robert Graham has definitely resolved to become a candidate for the representation of City West in the General Assembly. He and Dr Wallis are now the only two candidates actuaUy in the field, but others are mentioned as probable aspirants to the honour, including the Mayor and Mr D. Goldie. There is every prospect of a spirited contest.

" _Egles " in the "Australasian " tells the following rich story : —" An elderly youug lady of some five and forty summers had made herself most agreeable to her fellow passengers on board the New Zealand steamer. She had evidently not finally resigned herself to a life of confirmed celibacy. There were chiefly men passen gers on board, but there was one lady absolutely old, who was rather deaf. At dinner one day the gay young creature, sur rounded at the dinner table by the admirers (Melbourne husbands taking a New Zealand holiday admire a good deal), displayed a vigorous appetite. Conscious that sho was amply gratifying it, she said, half apologeti cally, to the elder lady, " You see, I am forti fying myself." " Indeed, " said the other, tooking round the table, and scanning the assembled passengers, " I shouldn't have thought there were so many." Correcting the misapprehension, tho younger repeated her remark in a louder tone, and pointing to herself. But it was no use. The old lady couldn't hear, and made things worse by saying, " Forty-five ! Are you now. Really I didn't thing you Avere so old." That gay young creature made no further efforts to elucidate."

Robert Utting, of Te Awamutu, and James Began, of Hamilton, are to run 150 yards, for £10 a side, at Hamilton, on the 21st inst.

At a recent lecture in the Opera-house, Melbourne, Mr Peebles said that spiritual istic circles have been established in China, Egypt, and throughout Europe.

Mrs Steele has been playing Ann Chute in tho "Colleen Bawn" at the Victoria, Theatre, Melbourne. The Fakir of Oolu has gone to Newcastle. Jem Mace is to give exhibitions in the "noble art" at Wilson's circus, Melbourne. Mr and Mrs Lingard will return to the colonies after a stay of 18 months' in England and America. Miss Alice May made a great hit in " The Grand Duchess " at the Prince of Wales Theatre, Liverpool. Mr Southern has been playing " Lord Dundreary " in Melbourne. He is not the original Southern, but his son, And is said to be very inferior to his father in the character.

The following nominations have been made for the Dunedin races on the Queen's Birthday : —Hurdle Race : Banjo, Eclipse, Kildare, Bucephalus, Bothwell, Canielia, Tommy Dodd. Birthday Handicap : Hap hazard, Rob Roy, Cloth of Gold, Dead Heat, Eclipse, Fishhook, Tadmor, Rose of Denmark (late Spray), King Philip, Ellin King, Tommy Dodd. Tradesmen's Han dicap : Flying Beauty, Haphazard, Miss Wills, Rob Roy, Comet, Cloth of Gold, Dead Heat, Fishhook, Dolly Varden, Sir William, Tadmor, Roso of Denmark, Ellin King, Tommy Dodd. Trotting Race : Nineteen entries.

The Djvonpoit Go-id Templars will hold an open lodge-meeting this evening in tiie Trinity School-room at eight o'clock, when a fine programme will b. presented to the audience, consisting of songs, music, and recitations, in which the members of the Fraternal Home will take part. As the admission will be free, there will, no doubt, be a full attendance.

The Temperance Hall on Saturday even ing was crowded to excess, and the members of tho Variety Troupe, Avithout exception, performed their several parts in the most satisfactory manner. Mr Geo. Warburton occupied the chair, and made a few intro ductory remarks on the cause which their entertainments were intended to popularize. The following programme was realised : Pianoforte selection, Mr Bntschkow ; songs, the "Outlaw," by Mr Smart; "Kiss me Mother," Miss Morgan ; " Military Style," Mrs Smith ; " Mrs Brown's Luggage," Mr Russell ; " Remember me," by Miss McEvoy ; s^ng and dance by Mettam Bros ; " Run them in," by Messrs Sceats and Smart ; and a double Hornpipe by Messrs Kcenan and Russell. The whole closed with a farce, the " Prima Donna,'.' in imitation of the " Hungry Nightingale," by the Chicago Minstrels, and was very entertaining.

We published in a late supplement, an article written by the "Vagabond," in the Melbourne "Argus." This ingenious writer managed to get into gaol, and while there wrote a description of the interior economy of the establishment. We pub lished his description of Gately the hang man, A recent number of the Australian " Typographical Journal" says that in order to get into gaol the Vagabond assaulted the speaker of the Victorian Assembly, aud was imprisoned accordingly.

The " Monthly Journal " in its leading article, alludes to the change of Atlantic steamers carrying the San Francisco mail as follows :—" It has been surmised here that the action of the English Postal authorities is dictated by Imperial policy, the dispo sition being opposed to fostering a mail service which has a tendency to encourage the growth of commercial relations between these Colonies and the United States, and that the British authorities desire to pro mote the advancement cf the P. and O. line as being more directly conducive to Imperial interests. For our- own part, we have not yet adopted this view, and we do not believe that the policy of the British Government is influenced by such narrow considerations. It may be pointed out, however, that the San Francisco mai_ has already developed a small trade between Australia,- New Zealand, and the British American Colonies, and that there is every prospect of this trade largely increasing, while the United States tariff is so high as to practically preclude extensive commerce with these colonies. Already t_.e attention of the Canadian Government has been directed to the facilities offered for inter change of products, and Mr Young has been sent as a Commissioner to New Zealand and Australia to report on the subject. Judging from the observations made by Mr Young during his visit to New Zealand, it may be confidently expected that his report will be highly favourable to this Colony. It may be observed' en passant that the disposition exhibited by the English-speak ing Colonies to draw closer together the bonds of commerce and interchange of products, is a hopeful sign for their future."

CHICAGO MINSTRELS.

The minstrels had a capital house on Saturday evening at the Theatre Royal, and their lively and Avitty performances were thoroughly appre ciated. The farce of the Baby Elephant, the sketch of the Rival Artists, the great martial pong, and the medley of dances were most amusing, and extremely laughable. Several of the conundrums took the people by storm, and created quite a commotion in every part of the house. Many of the songs were encored, es pecially the happy song of " Lullaby," by Mr W. C. Hawkins, Avhose soft flute-like voice, was heard to great advantage. We notice that the success which has attended the entertainments lias induced the lessee to re-engage the Chicago Minstrels for six more nights, and the perform ances of this evening are entirely new. The first part will consist of darkie representations, including a number of funny sayings and doings, anecdotes, sparkles of wit, showering fancies, comic and sentimental songs. Mr Marshall will sing " Leaf by Leaf the Roses fade;" Mr Towle "Keep one little Kiss for me;" MrCary, "Qc.een of the Night;" Mr Hawkins, " I have no home;" Mr Arlington, " Cackle, Cackle;" and Mr Wal lace, "My Little German Band." The National airs of England.France, and Germany, will also be given. Tho grand dance melody will be repeated by desire. A dramatic sketch, entitled "Rival Othellos." A budget of specialities, a martial burlesque, and a character farce, " One night in a bar-room," are only portion 9 of the _«this evening.

The Wonder of the Age.

Whales Tamed and Employed.

A RECENT English journal publishes an account of a most extraordinary exhibition in Boston Bay, which proves that the Americans are the most ingenious, original, and daring people on the earth. The events are desciibed by the journal's special reporter, whose account we are unable to publish in full, but we condense the follow ing summary : —" He states that during De cember last Boston and the principal adjacent cities were posted with large bills headed 'Oh, ye whales, bless ye the Lord." It was thereunder stated that Jabez Ryder would exhibit on a certain day and hour in Boston Bay two whales between 50 and 60 feet in length, which he had reared, tamed, and trained at Nantucket, in his huge Cetaceous Nursery. The whales were to be shewn harnessed and bridled to tow boats about the Bay, to stop, and be raised to the surface, and finally to be fed by Mr Ryder ' with his own hands.' Visitors began to pour into Boston before the day arrived, and the hotels were filled. Trains were crowded in the morning of the ap pointed day, the steamers were crowded, tho bay was covered with small boats, and every vantage ground was occupied

THE APPARAIA

The reporter by judicious flattery, and something more substantial, succeeded in obtaining a seat in one of Mr Ryder's boats, with Mrs Ryder and two of her daughters. They pulled out into Boston Bay, and drew up beside a large boat that was "moored to a buoy, and cnnnec;ed by means of two small, but very strong hawsers with two other boats 30 feet in advance. The boat was pulled between the other boats, and Mr Ryder explained the apparatus by which lie said " I am able to hoist my whales and also control them." The boats were filled with ingeniously designed drags, and in the centre of each boat was a windlass, from which descended into the water, two hawsers. Ten feet of the space at the stern was decked in so as to be air-tight, and was filled with the most buoyant gas ever discovered. The boats were shortly encom passed with steamers and small boats. Mr Ryder then waved his hat and shouted out " watch all, for I shaU now raise my team of whales to the surface," saying which he began to turn the windlass in his boat, while his sons did the same in theirs, winding in the hawsers that led over the bows, which were soon drawn tight. At intervals when Mr Ryder paused to take breath he informed the reporter that the air-tight compartments prevented the boats from sinking. Just as the strain on the hawsers had become very great, two dark outlines were perceptible a short distance in front of the bows, and in another moment the whole of the backs of two leviathans were distinctly visible above the surface. Shortly afterwards more than half the bodies of the whales from their head to their tails might be seen with great advantage. It was then seen that two huge collars encircled the necks of the whales about 4 feet from their heads, and from these collars a kind of harness extended along their sides and backs, ter minating in a broad band which encircled their tails in the smallest part, and just in front of the caudal fins. The hawsers were made fast to the backs of the collars, and the hawsers which led from the sides of the boats were made.fast near the extremities of their noses to ingenious kind of bridles.

THE START

Then Mr Ryder held up a large strip of bunting on which was printed :—" Look out, I am about to start my team." Then he made a motion to his wife and daughters, who at once let slip the rope that held their boat to the buoy. The male members at the same moment slacked off some fathoms of their hawsers, and the whales feeling themselves at liberty, started off, towing the boats at great speed. The drags were then brought into use in the wake of the boats, the whales finding their progress impeded. The steamers and boats followed far behind.

THE RETURN

Mr Ryder, having waited until they came up, hoisted another piece of bunting with the signal "I will now turn round to the northward and go back to my starting point." The drag attached to the Southern boat was drawn up, and the whale harnessed thereto, being released from the strain, swam ahead, the other whale, impeded by the drag, acting as a pivot round which the first one turned. When this manoeuvre was accomplished the other drag was drawn up, and the whale started off at full speed and joined her mate. The pair then went off at the rate of GO miles an hour, and the boats were soon at the starting point, the drags were used, and the whales were drawn to the surface, so that their heads and backs were again visible. By this time the boats and steamers had again come up.

FEEDING THE WHALES. Two bags filled with some light and

strong smelling substance was put into the small boat, into which got Mr Ryder, his son, and the reporter, and when the boat got alongside one of the whales, one of the sons kept the boat steady by holding on to the bridle, while Mr Ryder took out some of the stufi with a scoop. The whale no sooner smelt the savoury scent than she opened her capacious mouth wide enough to swallow the boat, and the contents of the scoop were thrown in, which ap peared to afford the leviathan much gratification. The other whale was fed in like manner the spectators shouting with delight. Other mameuvres were then per formed, and the whales and boats were again moored to the large buoy. The feats having thus been performed, the spectators after repeated rounds of cheers, dispersed, and the reporter was left to enjoy the con versation of the .female Ryders, and the strong language explanatory monologue of the head of the family. He gave the whole history of the whales, how he caught, penned, fed and trained them, how he studied their habits, humoured the first, and doctored the second, and named them Jerusha and Sabina, after his daughters. STEAM NAVIGATION TO BE REVO-

LUTIONIZFD

The elder Ryder then, in an undertone described his future plans. He said steam poAver Avould be entirely eclipsed by Avhale poAver. " Next Spring,"said he, "'l'll take Sabina and Jerusha, and four other strong propeller-tailed Avhales and make up a team of six, and harness this six thousand horse poAver team, to much larger boats than ours and take them over to Europe and show the Britishers, Hollanders, Oermans, and Russians that whales can do some things besides yield oil, spout, and gobble up prophets. I'll hire the Avhole North Sea and the Baltic to perform it I AviU by Josh ! Then I'll come home and form a General Whale Navigation Company in Nantucket, NeAv Bedford, and New York, and will take contracts for carrying with whales all the ocean mails, at the rate of GO miles per hour. More than this, Aye will toAv in and out of every bay and har bour in the world all the ships, barques, brigs, bngantines, schooners, sloops, flat boats rafts, and catamarans, with whales. Uy the nivalis of young Avhales Aye will easily do this, and much more, and by means of old ones Aye Avill gi ye light and heat to all mankind, and thus send all steam ship companies that burn coal, all coal companies, aud all gas companies to one eternal smash." Here, Mrs £yd? r and her _?_<__£ daUghi6rS P.ereeived^hluheoi ec flavin.? h-r 8! beconii »S excited and ho tiaymg his plans, and so she broke in and interrupted the conversation. ' the foregoing new-letter Avas left at th* office of the Auckland Evening Star by" gentleman, who is described by the mL server who mm s him as of ■'SoXwlX

fashionable exterior, and a ._lTi 7 Inquiry being made a, , 0 P wh.thefi'' person looked like a person whT the voluntarily become P artyT a l^t* answer was " Just the other way " i_ V_^%sr so satisfactory that we hesitated nolo.? ! about accepting so interesting a story rll } of the P.D.s has, however, remarked whH in the act of setting up the acceunt th a 4 . looks " very liko a whale." l rt

POLICE COURT. -This Day.

(Before R. C. Barstow, Esq., Rjf THE FLOORING FLUB) ' ' George Marples was charged with __;. drunk (2nd offence), 10s aud costsf P-5?. Martin and Wm. Markinson for h3? drunk on Sunday, were fined 10s 3 with costs. ™*a >

SAILORS ASHORE. Edwin Baker, James Eastwood1 xnA Thomas Chambers were charged under ft! Merchant Shipping Act with being ab« P »t from H.M.S. Sapphire on the VolS Remanded for eight days.

THREATENING A WIFE. -' ' James Gamble, a tall, stalwart labourer was charged with threatening to do some, thing to Emily Gamble, his wife, on ft. 14th inst. ' me

Mrs Gamble said she wished to withdraw he case, but was desirous of getting a protection order. ° His Worship said that he did not wish to fill Mount Eden gaol with husbands and leave the wives to stuigglc for themselves It was not a good state of society. H e _. a _ some hesitation in allowing these cases to be withdrawn since the sad _____ 0 { McGrath.

Sub-Inspector Pardy said that Gamble had given way to drink lately, otherwise he was a creditable working mail. His Worship gave prisoner some good advice, and hoped he would forsake the drink, and consider his wife's indulgence to wards him. He would now be discharged but if he appeared in the dock again on a similar charge ho must expect a term of imprisonment.

The prisoner was then discharged. THE boots!

Mary Alexander, alias Patton, •«__ charged with stealing a pair of boots, yalup 8s fid.

The prisoner, who was known to the police, could not satisfactorily account for the boots, but as no prosecutor appeared she was discharged with a caution. This was all the business.

SUPREME COURT.—This Day.

CIVIL SESSIONS.

(Before His Honor Mr Justice Gillies and

a special jury.) The Civil Sessions Avere opened thi. morning at the Supreme Court. There was only one case set down for hearing, which was called on at ten o'clock.

NICCOL V. STEPHENSON.

This was a suit to recover the sum of £3.1 10s which plaintiff through Ins servant, William Lombard, had entrusted to defend ant for safe keeping during the voyage of the schooner Loch Lee from Vavau to Auckland in the month of October last. Mr J. B. Russell and Mr Bees appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr Hesketh for the defendant.

The following jury were empanelled to try the case : Mr James Burt (Foreman), Messrs Hunt, Scarrot, Chambers,. "We.. wocd, Home, Seccumbe, Dyer, King, Luke, Bastard, Baber.

Mr Rees opened the plaintiff's case. He briefly recapitulated the facts detailed in the declarations. The defence was simply a denial of all material allegations. Two" others pleas had been entered, but they had been struck out by the order of the* Court, as being included in the other. The following issues were submitted to the jury :— -:" Ist. Did the plaintiff deliver to the defen dant, and did the defendant accept the sum of £361 10s to be safely kept and taken care of, and to be re-delivered to plaintiff at his request?

2nd. Did defendant so take care of the said money, and so re-deliver it ! -,-

3rd. Did he keep it in a negligent man ner ? " .

4th. What amount, if any, is the plaintiff entitled to recover from the defendant?

The evidence for the plaintiff was then taken. - 7 .

Malcolm Niccol deposed : He Avas the plaintiff dn the present action. He knew Captain Stephenson, the defendant, as captain of the Loch Lee, a schooner trading to the Friendly-Islands. Captain i Lombard Avas in his (Avitness's) employ in ; October last. He Avas master of the cutter Bella, and took her to the islands to sell her on Avitness' behalf, lie did sell her, .' and rendered, by letter, an account of ihe sale. He saAV Captain Lombard oil his return, but he did not pay over the money. When Captain Stephenson returned hi the Locli Lee he sent his brother, William, to interview him in the presence of Captain Lombard. Up to that time he had received none of the proceeds of the Bella. WiUiam Lombard, master mariner, de posed : He Avas employed by Mr Niccol to take the cutter BeUa to the islauds,arid sell her if possible, and bring back the proceeds. He sold the vessel for £350; he Avas paid in dollars. He received other moneys on behalf of cargo: In all £361 10s. At the island of Vavau, he met Stephenson Avith his vessel —-the Loch Lee. He soon after left to go to Samoa. Before he left he spoke to him about changing the money. He wanted to get from him a draft on Owen and Graham for the dollars. He told him the amount. He did not got the draft. The dollars Avere in a keg when he received them from the natives. He cmnted them and put them back, and the keg Avas carried to the mission house by tyvo natives. There were 1750 dollar?. Captain Stephenson kneAV of the trans action, for he* was staying at the mission house at the time. Before Capt. Stephenson left for Samoa he bought acasn box off him. He succeeded in getting the silver changed for gold at last, and put it in the cash box, and gave it in. charge to the trader for Messrs Owen and Graham. On Captain Stephenson's return to Vavau, he and some others Avent on board the Loch Lee. a he saw Captain Stephenson, and told.him M Avas Avaiting to take a pastagJ by him.. **c told him he had better see the mate,- who Avas very bad, and it Avas probable they might want his assistance.- He saw t_e captain frequently. He asked him o" on* occasion what he should charge him *°J,*|r passage. He replied it Avas all right; they should not fall out about that. n« took a passage in the vessel, and canw to Auckland as a passenger. He c°° the cash box on board. He and the w» of the passengers and Captain Stephenso Aventon board together. When he goto" board he Avent into his berth and pot «"° things there, and then gave the cash bo.\i Captain Stephenson, avlio Avas in the m*" j cabin at the time. He said, " Captain.*™ you take charge of this money ? ana . said " With pleasure." The captain M» the cash box, and placed it in his cbwj. _ and he (Lombard) Avent on deck. 4 1 cash box contained £361 l_H.tt.Pj papers and his certificate. I'-]_?li___ 1 Niccol's money. He had not seen the» w or money since. It had been MMf] I he was informed by Stephenson, r W,~£ I paid his passage, but hadirequen; T*iu !j for his bill, both before and V* 5' J

arrival. - . __• -_.tof His Honor asked to what end th»P«»_ the examination was directed. _ - 'ft Mr Russell said as plaintiff .m^ passenger, there Avas an obligation W Hj part of the defendant to carry botflpP^ aiid his personal property.

THE EVENING STAR, MONDAY, APRIL 16, 1877.



MUTUAL LIFE ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALASIA. ' INCORPORATED BY ACT OF PARLIAMENT. NEW ZEALAND BRANCH- Head Oflice, Auckland- Local Director: / GEORGE Burgoyne Owen, Esq. (Messrs. Oweni and Graham.) Principal Medical Officer: Charles Field Goldsbro', Esq.. M.D. General Agent for New Zealar.d: William T. J. Bell, With Sub-Agencies in all the Principal Towns. Every information on the subject of LIFE ASSURANCE ANNUITIES, r__d ENDOW MENTS FOR CHILDREN, afforded by J. A. Lowe, Travelling Agent to the. Association ; or WILLIAM T. J. BELL, I General Agent, j l___ Special Features.—Age admitted on I Policies, which are trNOHALLANGABLE from date of issue. Lowest Rates of Premiums, and no hampeb- I



T^OTICE OF REMOVAL H. A TKINS BEGS TO ANNOUNCE THAT HE j__" H A S REMOVED!!"©* TO TIIE Pjejemises Next Door Below his Old Shop. H. ATKINS Begs to heartily thank his numerous Cus tomers for their very liberal patronage from his first commencing business up to tho present time, and to assure them that although his trade has increased to that extent, that his REMOVAL to more Commodious Premises was a neces sity, the same principles of business will still be adhered to: viz., keeping a good article, buying in the cheapest market, and selling at the smallest profit possible. His Now Shop shall always be known as The Cheapest in Auckland. H.A. wiU be happy to see all his old Customers, and as many new ones as may honour him with their patronage. A SPLENDID STOCK OF DRAPERY AND CLOTHING Will always be found, and the PRICES THE LOWEST IN AUCKLAND I H. ATKINS. THhTHTNTON, SMITH, AND FIRTH'S PRICES CURRENT (Wholesale). Sacks. 100's. 50's. Crown Brand Flour, £ s. d. & s. d. „ s. cl. perton 18 0 0 18 10 0 19 0 0 T.S.&F. Canterbury Brand 15 10 0 16 0 0 16.10 0 Seconds Flour .... 14 10 0 Sharps 8 10 0 Bran 6 0 0 .. Fowl Wheat .. .. 0 4 oto 4s. 6d, The above prices include sacks and bags; sacks and bags not returnable. Terms: Cash. Auckland. April 11. 1877. ~F> L A N X E T S ! "OLANKETSM BLANKETS !!! BLANKETS !!! In addition to Largo Parcels of NEW GOODS for the incoming Season already announced, tbe undersigned have pleasure in informing their customers and the public that the bulk Of their NEW SEASON'S Stock of BLANKETS are now to hand. In order to maintain the well known character of our house for goods of this description, Great Care has been exercised in Selection and Purchase, due regard being had to Quality and Price, and full advantage has been taken of an overstocked market and falling prices. Inspection will prove that wc commence the season's trade with a Stock of Blankets, which for Price and Quality are second to none. BLA.NKETB (all sizes), White, Blue, and Grey. 9x4 Blankets, from 10/0 per pair. in , , 7/R I bought a job, 1U x 4 " " 17/b " 1 splendid value. 22 _ 4 " | e-ual'y cheap. FLANNELS, all makes and qualities. New Winceys, exceptionally cheap—a good line at 55d. French Merinoei, All wool Plaids, Satin Cloths, and New Fancy Dress Materials, in great variety. A nice assortment of New Black Silks, very good value. WINTER HOSIERY, of every description. Children's and Ladies' Waterproof Mantles, Waterproof Tweeds, Sec, NEW LINEN GOODS-Cuffs, Collars, and Sets,



new shapes and styles. Strong Grey and Drab CORSETS, at very low



prices. New Ribbons, Flowers, Hats, Fancy Buttons, &c„ &c. CLOTHING, OF ALL DESCRIPTIONS, for Bo.'s and Men, good and cheap.



. S3T One Shilling in the & returned on all Cash Purchases of 20s. and upwards.



RUSHBROOK & BRIDGM .N, JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel), Uppku Queen-stbket Aneklmirl.



Rank Poison is scarcely more injurious than are the deleterious liquors which tho scamps who vend them represent to be the samo or as good as Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Akoma tic Schnapps. Bottles which formerly con tained this superb medicinal beverage are used by the impostors, and the genuine labels imi tated. We trust this caution will forearm the public and baffle the swindlers. Relief from Cough in Ten Minutes.— Sharland's Cherry Pectoral, a specific for Colds, Coughs, Asthma, Consumption, Bronchitis, Lung Diseases, &c. It acts like magic. Price, 2s. 6d. and Is. Gd. a bottle.



Sharland's Instant Cure for Toothache; Is. a bottle.



Sharland's, opposite Post-office. Auckland,