SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER-{ Ksio^M&32g. 2.36 SUN SET.—This Evening, 7.10 SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning. 4.41 WOOX'S AG-E.-Full Moon. 20th. 11.30 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Annie Hill.J schooner, from Wellington (In the Manukau) Rover, schooner, from vv angarei Minnie Hare, schooner, from Napier lona. s.s., Farqahar, from the North Golden Isle, schooner, from Russell liotomahana, s.s., from the Thames (disabled).

DEPARTURES.

Go-ahead, s.s., Helandei", for Gisborns Venus, ketch, for Wellington

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

For Tauranga and the South—Taupo, 20tn; Wanaka, 28th For Friendly Isles—Pearl, ketch, at once For Taranaki and the South—Taranaki, loth Wellington, 25th. For 'Frisco—City of Sydney, Wednesday, 19th, (English Mail) For Sydney—Rotorua, s.s., 18th instr Hero, 27th For London—3ity of Auckland.ship; Famenoth, Bhip, early

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Hero, s.s.. from Sydney, 23rd instant. City of Sydney, s.s., from Sydney, Wednesday '19th " „ Fairlie, schooner, from Newcastle, early May Queen, baraue, from London, sailed sth Oct S.R- Lyman, barque, from Dunedin, sailed 6th

inst. Mazeppa, schooner, from Fiji, early Mary Ann Annison, barque, from Melbourne,

early Lorraine, barque, from London; sailed 11th Oct

The schooner Rover arrived last night from Wangarei with several passengers and the following cargo:—s9 bags gum, 40 bales wool, 40 bags do, 10 bags fungus, 2 tons onions, 1 ton sundries. The s.s. Taupo is expected from Tauranga and the South early on Monday morning. She is advertised to leave for Rus3ell on Monday evening. „ The schooner Minnie Hare has arrived m ballast from Napier. The 3.5. Rotorua left Port Chamers for the North yesterday. Passengers for Auckland : Mrs Carr, Mra Price. Messrs. R. J, Delias, Hastings, Creed. . The s.s. Rotomahana met with an accident on her way up from the Thames yesterday afternoon. When off the Sandspit at 3 p.m., a bolt securing the connecting rod brasses to the crank shaft gave way, the result being that the piston rod smashed the cylinder cover. Of course the engines came to a standstill. The captain being made acquainted with the nature of the damage, ordered an anchor to be let go, and awaited the passing of the s.s. Durham. This steamer hove in sight at half-past six, and on seeing the Rotomahana bore up to her assistance. The passengers were taken off and brought on to town, and Mr Moon, the chief officer of t'ae Rotomahana, also came on to make arrangements for the s.s. Rotoiti being sent down to tow her up. The Rotoiti brought her convoy safely to town at eleven o'clock this morning. The Rotomahana was placed on the gridiron at ence, and measures were taken to repair damages. . The baroue Wodonga, after discharging her cargo, will go alongside the railway wharf, and take in a cargo of puriri timber for V-yttelton. The schooner Golden Isle arrived from Russell to-day with a cargo of 100 tons coals. A schooner has been' signalled all day, and had not made the harbour up to the time of our going to press.

AUCKLAND CATTLE MARKET.

MR. ALFRED BUCKLAND'S WEEKLY REPORT. At the Remuera yards, on Thursday, dairy cows were represented in average numbers, and without alteration in value. Store stock scarce, and at very low prices. Fat cattle were yarded in average numbers, 129 head being sold to the trade at the following prices: Thomas .Rogers, 10 head, £8 4s; James Robertson, 9 head, £8 7s 6d; Awitu, 37 head, £8 10s 6d; Richard Kelly. 31 head. £10 15s ; and other small lots at the same rate, being about 21s to 233 jtfie lOOlbs. A few store sheep were penned, and were dull of sale. Fat sheep, plentiful. Wethers brought from 12s to 16s 3d ; ewes, 7s 6d to 133 each, or 2d to 2Jd per lb.; fat lambs, plentiful, and worth from 7s to 14s each, depending on quality. Pigs, plenti ful, and at late values.

BIRTHS.

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

SMITH.—On the I4th December, at Wrington

Villa, Mount Eden, the wife of J. C. Smith of

a daughter. LEACH.—On the 14th December, at Parnell, Mrs. J. Leach of a soh.

MARRIAGE.

BOWDENT—JENNINGS.—On the 14th Decem ber, 1577, by the Rev. Father W. McDonald, assisted by Father Dwyer, Charles Isaac Bowden to Elizabeth Jane Jennings, both of Auckland.

NOTICE TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Subscriber.—We learn on inquiry at the City Council that Mr Faulder is en titled to charge 15s per cubic yard for the removal of night soil. Citizen, >J.n ['reply to " Admirer," was re ceived too late for to-day's issue.

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

SATURDAY. DECEMBER 15, 1877.

fCorthe cause that lacks, assistance, Jrci the wrong that needs iesistenc«» For the future is the distance, Aad-tbe good that ye «a» tl*.

We left off our review of the Dissolution Memoranda at that point where the trans cendent geniusof the Marquis of Nornianby shone out with conspicuous brilliancy, and we shewed that, while shearing was a very good sort of thing in its way, and a source of much wealth to the colony, there was not, so far as we were aware, any precedent in the Parliamentary history of Britain for urging it as a reason for refusing a dissolu tion. We will proceed to review and rebut the remaining objections, which are raised in the Governor's Memoranda. In the fourth paragraph lie says : " The Govern ment have not informed the Governor that there is any great measure or principle in discussion in the House, which could be submitted for the consideration of the Constituencies." In the first place his Excellency must have been well aware that political measures of the most vital importance to the constituencies were pending in Parliament at the time lie penned this sentence—change in the in cidence of taxation, triennial parliaments, modification of land laws, administrative reform and retrenchment, change of native policy, and other questions of equal impor tance. But setting these matters for the moment aside, and admitting for the sake of argument that there was no great measure or principle in discussion in the House, we contend that his Excellency exceeded his authority in refusing a disso lution. We have shewn in a previous article that a Ministry taking office in a Parliament, elected during the currency of its opponent's administration is entitled to a dissolution ; that a dissolution may be granted at any stage of the public business ; and that the predominant rule now recog nised in England is that the prerogative of dissolving the House of Commons can only be exercised in conformity with the advice of the Crown's responsible advisers. But there are numerous instances in the history of Parliamentary Government in England of dissolutions where no questions' of policy were placed before the constitu encies. Take the case of Lord Derby in 1858. The Opposition had carried a condemnatory resolution against his administration, and he applied for a dissolution. Lord Granville complained in the House of Lords that the Govern ment was not stating " exactly the policy upon which an appeal to the country was to be made. Mr Disraeli, Chancellor of the Exchequer, replied that the intended appeal to the country was "an appeal on our personal position." Lord Palmerston, the then leader of the Opposition, admitted that "the Government may say that the question put to the country is, whether it has entire confidence in them, or wt ether it prefers any other combination of men." (Todd, "Parlia mentary Government in England," vol. 1, p. 156.) The Governor, whois astrong Conserva tive, and owes his patronage to his adher ence to that party, appears to be ignorant of the fact that he based his objection on grounds which have long ago become obso lete. In the next paragraph he says : —

" As far as the Governor is aware, no Supply has been granted. The Governor is perfectly alive to the fact that this is not a question whioh in England needs consideration, because in England, Parliament has uniformly voted the Supplies necessary for an appeal to the country. The Governor, however, knows as a fact that this course has not been uniformly adopted in the colonies; and he is, therefore, of opinion that it is a question which must enter into his consideration, in deciding upon a dissolution. In England, there is also the further safeguard in the moral certainty that no Minister would venture to advise the Sovereign to dissolve Parliament after Parliament had refused to vote ihe Supplies necessary to carrying on the service of the country during the time required for the election and the re-assembling of Parlia ment.'

Sir George Grey, in reply, points out that during a conversation,

''The Governor pressed repeatedly upon Sir George Grey—he must say. even to his regret— the question, ' If a Dissolution were accorded to him, would he dissolve whether Supply was granted or not?' That question, Sir George Grey admits, was one to which, if required to give an answer, he could not with propriety have given any other answer than that which he gave to the Governor. Indeed, he ventured to add, when once replying, that, in his belief, the Governor had nothing to do with this matter, because the decision ought to rest with the Ministers, the Parliament, and the people; and that the Governor should rely that they would decide in the manner which would be most accordant with the interests of the country and the desire of its inhabitants."

Apparently His Excellency was anxious to entrap Sir George Grey into an admission which would furnish ground for refusing a dissolution. As to the unfavourable com parison .which the Governor draws between tiie Imperial Parliament and the New Zea laud Legislature we <;an afford to dismiss it with contempt. Bir it is difficult to under stand how the Marq .is, after a long course of Parliamentary exjl 'lience as a Conserva tive Whip, and as a member of the Privy Council; could have fallen, into so gross a

blunder as to rely upon such grounds as are contained in the paragraph quoted above. It furnishes another example of a man diggiag a pit for others and falling into the midst of it himself. We can only suppose that His Excellency's judgment has been blinded by political bias, or that his mental faculties are deplorably failing. When his Excellency alleges that the House of Commons has uniformly voted supplies in anticipation of a dissolution he states that which is contrary to fact. In 1783, Pitt was obstructed, by an Opposition and defeated in every shape. He was obliged to prorogue Parliament without passing an Appropriation Act. Parliament was dissolved. On the re-assembling of the new Parliament an amendment was pro posed to the address in reply to rescind a former resolution, which expressed approval of the late dissolution, but this amendment was negatived by a majority of more than two to one.

"When the Crown, upon the advice of Minis ters, decides to exercise the prerogative of Dis solution, the House of Commons cannot refuse supplies without incurring the reproach of fac tion."- -Todd, vol. 2, p. 106. "The general result of the controversy has been, there is a strong feeling against conditional Dissolutions. So strong is this feeling now in Parliament, that it would seem thata conditional promise of a Dissolution, so far from assisting Supply, is the surest method of intercepting; it. —Sydney Moening Herald, September, 1877.

The Governor of New South Wales during the present year took up a similar position to that which the Marquis of Normanby has chosen to assume, but having discovered the error of his ways, frankly informed Ministers on the 27th September last : —" I am accordingly now prepared to act upon the advice tendered by you in that minute, namely, to dissolve the present Parlia ment forthwith, whether Supply be granted or not." In a subsequent memorandum the Marquis of Normanby urges that a promise of a dissolution at some future period " would be putting a pressure upon Parliament which might very possibly influence its proceedings." But evidently here again the Governor is setting up an objection for which there is no constitutional precedent in English Parliamentary history. On the contrary, the precedents are on the opposite side. Dissolutions have been frequently granted in anticipation of the close of the session, but English politicians have never regarded it as an attempt to coerce votes.

"During Lord Derby's first administration Lord John Russell complained of the Ministry coitinuingto hold office while in an admitted minority in the House. Mr Gladstone and Lord Palmerston'tcontended that the Ministry were bound " to give a definite assurance that as soon as the necessary business before Par liament could be despatched, the Crown should be advised to appeal to the country. In the House of Lords similar views were expressed by the Duke of Newcastle Lord Derby agreed that there should be an appeal to the country as soon as possible, and the necessary business having been got through. Parliament was dissolved on July Ist."

Evidently Her Majesty the Queen holds very different views on the subject of her prerogative from those entertained by her representative in New Zealand. When the Russell Ministry resigned, a report was circulated by their opponents that the Queen had refused to grant a dissolution, whereupon Earl Kussell published a memorandum in which the following sentence occured :—

"I am authorised by Her Majesty to state, that no person would be justified in saying or holding out to people that if I had felt it my duty to recom mend to Her Majesty a dissolution of Parliament, Her Majesty's consent would have been with held."

We have thus shewn that in almost every instance the reasons adduced by His Excel lency for refusing a dissolution are based on erroneous grounds. When His Excel lency state-s that a promise of a dissolution would put pressure upon some members of the House, he evidently implies that there are men in Parliament who are afraid to risk the chances of re-election; and we agree with him so far, but he is not justified in refusing a dissolution becauso some representatives of the people have been false to the interests of their constituents.

Altogether the Governor comes out of this correspondence in a very sorry plight. When his arguments are rebuttad seriatum by the Premier he can only take shelter-in his vice-regal dignity, and " for the future decline to enter into any controversy or dis cussion with Ministers of a general or abstract character, regarding his constitu tional position, his responsibilities, or his duties." By his obstructive, unconstitu tional, and , biassed action the Governor has denied the Ministry on appeal to the constituencies, and has virtually bnrked a free expression of public opinion ; and by his action in reference to the Laud Bill he has compelled the Ministry to adopt a measure containing principles antagonistic to their policy, and inimical to the interests of the people of the colony as a whole. The Hon. J. Sheehan, in introducing the Land Bill, distinctly stated, that the Government were opposed to grant ing more than a five years' renewal of the leases; but the Canterbury clique, by a long course of corrupt intriguing, succeeded in carrying, a 'fifteen years' extension of their leases, and in defeating other pro visions in the Bill which aimed at reducing the monopoly the runholders have so long enjoyed.

There appears to be only one remedy for the despotic assumption of unconstitutional powers by the Governor, and the sooner that remedy is enforced the better. That remedy consists in a monster petition to the Throne for the rccal of the Marquis of Nor manby, on the ground that his continuance in his present position is hostile to the liberties of the people, and subversive of that loyalty for which the colonists of New Zealand have been uniformly distinguished.

"We were enabled yesterday to give an authoritative contradiction to the rumour that Mr J Ballance, M. H. R., had formally intimated his defection from the Govern ment. It "will be remembered, however, that Mr J. C. Brown's name was coupled with that of Mr Ballance in the telegrams. Seeing that Mr Brown has accompanied the Premier in his visit to Napier, this 'part of the story is evidently as destitute of founda tion as the other. It was suggested, however, that Mr J. E. Brown might have been meant, and in order to set the question at rest we telegraphed to that gentleman, and received the following answer :—" Not true that I have formally severed connections with party.—J. Evan Brown."

The Reception Committee are anxious to secure the assistance of the ladies. Any contributions in the shape of rosettes or articles useful for decorations will be accept able. Mr Cole, of Queen-street, nearly opposite the Thistle Hotel, has consented, as a member of the Reception Committee, to receive and take charge of any dona tions. The cricket match between Canterbury and Auckland is fixed for the 28th. and 29th inst. It will be played in the Domain ground, and a charge of one shilling will be made for admission.. A band will be in attendance, and every possible means will be adopted to make the game one of the great cricketing events of the season. The nanes of the Auckland players will jj be advertised in a few days.

Particulars of Sunday services at the various churches of the city and suburbs will be found in advertisement columns. The people's service at the theatre at the usual hour.

Our attention has been called to the fact that school children coming into town by railway in the morning are in the habit of sitting on the steps and platform outside the carriages, and that thereby they expose themselves to considerable risk. The guards, of course, cannot devote the whole of their time to looking to the safety of these children. If the parents and guar dians of these youngsters do not take prompt precautions some disaster must result from this carelessness.

Mr F. Hull, jun., who met with a severe accident a short time ago, is rapidly re covering, and it is hoped that he will be able to quit,the hospital in the course of a fey? days. The offices of the Norwich Union Fire and Life Insurance Societies have been re moved to Hobson Buildings, Shortla.ud street, noxt to the Post-office.

We are in receipt of several letters from country residents suggesting that the meet ing to near an address from Sir George Grey shall be held in the open air instead of in the Theatre Royal, and that the hour of the meeting should be altered to five o'clock, in order to afford an opportunity for residents in the suburban districts, and at Howick, Panmure, and other places to be present. One correspondent thinks that the ladies will alone muster in sufficient force to fill the Theatre. The suggeston is worthy the serious consideration of the Committee. To guard against the contingency of wet weather the theatre could be engaged for the occasion, and could be used as a dernier resort. We have not space for the lettlers in this issue as they came to hand some what late.

The North Shore Ferry Company's paddle steamer To Aroha left the wharf side this afternoon for a cruise in the harbour, calling at the pleasant nook known as Glen Orchard. The steamer started exactly at 2.20 with no less than fifty passengers on board. The band did not turn up, and the only music in connec tion with the excursion was the iEolian Harp.

The trip from Auckland by train on the opening of the railway to Hamilton presents to business men an opportunity of com bining business with pleasure. On the arrival of the train at the Hamilton station Messrs J. D. and K. Hill will offer for sale 25 halt-acre lots opposite the station, 20 lots fronting the station road, and 11 villa sites varying from 5 to 10 acres in area. The terms are remarkably easy, and should induce competition for these valuable lots. We have been informed that allotments in the township, of Hamilton have recently been sold at £10 per foot, while other lands near the township have brought £25 per acre.

We hare much pleasure in calling atten tion to Mrs Mulgraw's notice in another column. She is a poor widow who two years ago loat her husband, and she is now struggling for a living. She has opened a small fruit and vegetable shop in those premises next to Domwell's, Queen-street, we hope she will get on. She means to sell cheap, aud turn the goods quickly.

A young man named John Given met with a severe accident at the Pollock Settle ment by the sudden falling of a log which he was engaged in sawing with his brother. The log severly crushed Mr Given's left leg. Assistance was promptly obtained, and the sufferer was conveyed to Auckland by the steamer Oregon, and placed in the District Hospital, where, under the skilful treat ment of Dr Philson, he is likely soon to become convalescent.

G. P. Donnelly, charged with horse stealing at the Supreme Court, Napier, was acquitted. It will be remembered that the accused Avas manager for the prosecutor in the case, and that after a quarrel the charge of horse-stealing was preferred. The accused in his defence alleged that the horse came into his possession in the ordinary way of business while acting as the prosecutor's agent.

An old woman named Alice Hoskins was arrested by Constable Dodd this morning charged with drunkenness, and disorderly conduct, and wilful destruction of property. It seems that the offender, who is an old gaol bird, entered the Black Bull this morning, and called for a drink, but the hotel keeper, observing that she was already intoxicated, refused to supply her with the " cordial." Mrs Hoskins then gave full vent to her feelings in extremely choice language, and proceed ing outside, picked up several stones, and threw them at the window, with as good aim as it was possible for her to take in her drunken condition. The result was that several windows were broken, and Mrs Hoskins was arrested. On the way to the Police Station, she amused Constable Dodd by snatches from several irresistibly comic songs, and a few steps of an Irish jig, vary ing the monotony of the march occasionally by lovingly inviting the susceptible young man to " come and have a drink."

The members of the Victoria Cricket Club held a special meeting last evening in the Young Mens' Christian Association Rooms, "VVellesley-street. There was a good attendance, the chair being occupied by Mr H. Cooke. The usual preliminary business having been transacted, a letter received from Pakuranga by Mr J. B. Fairs, the Secretary, was read. This contained the acceptance of the challenge forwarded to the Pakuranga Club to play a match on Boxing Day. A Selection Com mittee, consisting of the Secretary and two members, was appointed. The Secretary was instructed to hire the necessary convey ances, which will start from the foot of Shortland-street at half-past seven o'clock on the morning of Boxing Day. The fare was fixed at 2s 6d each for players and visitors. The Secretary was instructed to issue tickets at once. The Club decided that the colours should be red and white. Several new members having been elected, the meeting terminated. This match, which is an annual affair, will be a very interesting one, as the young men of Pakuranga are almost all very proficient players, while the members of the Victoria are anxious to assert their superiority. Early application should be made to the Secretary for tickets, as only a limited number have been issued. .

The Juvenile Pioneers held an open lodge meeting last evening under the chairmanship of Mr McKenzie. The proceedings were of a very interesting character, and the utmost or^pr prevailed. The programme consisted of the opening ode, the chairman's speech, and the following songs. " The British Union Jack," Mr Peace; " A good appetite," Mr WJDoran ; "Doa good turn if you jjcan," by Miss Harris, "The Sailor Boy's rest," beautifully sung by Miss Peace, the music by her brother ; " Aspirations," Miss Gribble ; "The cottage by the sea," by a very young lady; and " Kiss me and I'll go to sleep," hy Miss Binns. Mr Bee gave a reading on general matters ; Miss Carter recited a temperance story, and Mr S. Hemus made an excellent speech on the two machines, the sewing and the human, suggesting the proper oil to keep both in true motion. The lodge closed in the usual way.

There was a beautiful display of various kinds of roses in the Market this morning, those of Mr Green, of Grafton Road, being particularly fine. We are sorry to hear that the man who had his leg broken at Northern "YVairoa is a son' of our well-known and respected citizen Mr Fulljames. It appears that whilst at work a log rolled over and broke his leg, which, under the skilful treatment of Dr. Norton, is progressing as favourably as possible.

It is expected that the railway to Hamil ton will be formally opened on the 19th. The excursion train, which leaves Auck lanp on Wednesday morning, will reach Hamilton at 12.43. An engine, with a few carriages, the regular up train, will leave for Auckland at 1.35, and the excursion train, with the visitors, leaves Hamilton for Auckland at 4 p.m., after the lunch is over. Return tickets will be issued at single fares on the 19th instant to Nga ruawahia, and will be available for two days, and the passage along the new line from Ngaruawahia to Hamilton anc? back will be tree of charge altogether. On the next day, the 20th, regular traffic will be commenced.

The business at the Police Court this morning consisted in punishing Mary Ann Gillan for being drunk. This was the second offence, and the prisoner was fined 10s and costs.

VICTORIA COMPANY RIFLE MATCH.

[Per Stxar Carrier Pigeon.]

3.30 p.fia. The Victoria Company Rifle Match at the Rifle Range,. Mount Eden, commenced at 2 o'clock to-day. The following is the score sa>far: 200 yards.—Bowden, H; Hay. 11; Soafl, 11; Payne, 10; Jas. Haslett, 10: Fairs, 9;^>afl; 9; C. Cooper,. 9; W. Rose, 9; Stewart, 8; Trayes, 8; Taylor, 8; Alder-ton, 8j Bruce, 8; Haficock, 7. 300 yards.—Steward 10; John Rnslett, 8; Fairs. 8 ; l)uff, 8 ; James Haslett, 8 ; Bow-den, 8; Tay lor, 8; C. Cooper, 8 ; Payne, 7 : Hay, 7; Alderton, 7 ; Bruce, 7; W. Rose, 1; Badoook. 3; Trayes, 2;H. Rose, 2.

CABLEGRAMS.

AUSTRALIAN

(PRESS AGENCY.)

Ms Berry on the Ejection of the Appropriation Bill-

He Predicts a Deadlock

MELBOURNE, this day.

Mr Berry, at the Beechworth banquet last night, fulminated against the action of the Council in rejecting the Appropriation Bill. ; He said the consequence would be stoppage of the railways and mail services, and.the non-payment of the public creditors. He referred to the perils of such a course. The rejection of the Bill was the act only of madmen.

There are capital entries for New Year's day meeting.

SYDNEY, this day. MR FARNALL FORxMING NEW MINISTRY. Mr Farnall is forming a Ministry. COMMERCIAL. Hennessy's case cask brandy is un changed : Rice, £22 to £23 ; Adelaide flour, £15 ; Adelaide wheat, 6s. There is no New Zealand wheat or oats in the market. Sugar and tobacco unchanged ; sperm, 918 to 918$.

ADELAIDE Quotations :—Wheat £5 flour, £13. The City of Sydney sailed yesterday.

PRIMITIVE METHODIST BAZAAR.

The Primitive Methodist body of Chris tians have made considerable advance in Auckland and Newmarket during the last few years, and especially in. the neighbour hood of City "West. They met for years in the small building in Sheridan-street, but finding the place too limited for their labours, they resolved to venture upon erecting a larger and more commodious place of worship, with a Sunday-school underneath. The venture was made,, and one of the handsomest churches within the confines of the city was the result, and it certainly reflects great credit upon the Primitive Methodists. The undertak ing, however, was beyond their immediate means ; the building altogether, with subsequent "additions, cost £1,442. Of this' formidable amount, through the un tiring exertions of the ladies chiefly, this debt on the church has been reduced to £755. We remember no instance where female members of any church have laboured in the cause of religious progress with more zeal, energy, and continued per severance than have the women connected with the Franklin Road Primitive Metho dist Church, They are not a wealthy people, but such as their thought and fingers can produce they give ungrudg ingly, and no doubt their reward will come,- and their idea of an independent church be realised. The present bazaar has been projected by the friends of Franklin Road chapel, and the immense quantity of clothing and wearing apparel of every conceivable description found in the several ladies' stalls, especially on the left of the bazaar, were mainly produced by the constant play of needle and* thread. The bazaar was well patronised last even ing, there being a larger number of persons present than on the preceding evening. The bazaar, considering the laudable efforts made, ought to bring favourable results. The members of the Templar Band, with their wonted generosity, went forward last evening, and performed a number of popular airs, which liberal act had the effect of inducing many persons to visit the bazaar, who, otherwise would

have been content with a lazy stroll round the Market-place. A friend also assisted in entertaining visitors with a galvanic battery, which caused considerable laughter among the unexperimentalised. The receipts of cash taken amounted to £20, a smaller sum than was anticipated. A number of attractions,, in addition to the music and galvaiiic battery, will be intro duced this evening, namely, Christmas trees, and, if possible, a microscope. As this evening will be the winding up of the bazaar, and being Saturday, it is anticipated that a much greater number of visitors will be in attendance. The promoters, therefore, have provided seats, and various refresh ments, and resolving that nothing within reach shall be wanting to make the bazaar a complete success.

MANUKAU HARBOUR.

NEW DIRECTIONS FOE ENTERING.

We have received the following important telegram;— The following new directions for entering the Manukau Harbour are pub lished in the "New Zealand Gazette":— " The South head beacons are now adjusted in line to lead the course of the Fanny Channel from the sea, bearing N.E. by N. by compass. Care must be observed when draAving near Tranmere shoal not to open the South head beacon southAvard, and to pay attention to the pointing of the sema phore arms for other guidance."

CRICKET.

AUCKLAND C.C. V. THAMES.

ONE of the annual cricket contests of the season came off in the Domain today. The game was the Auckland Cricket Club v. the Thames. In past years the Thames used to be able to cope with the full strength of the provincial metropolis, but the revival in the game which has taken place here during the last year or two has made that struggle rather one-sided, and it is now judged advisable to equalise the game by substituting the Auckland Cricket Club for the whole of Auckland. The present match has been looked forward to with a good deal of interest, and neither team can be said to have enjoyed decided favouritism. The Thames team arrived by the Durham last night. Thanks to Mr R. J. Yates' care, there was no difficulty in selecting a first-class wicket on the Domain ground, and when the stumps were pitched, at half-past ten this morning, all the circumstances, including weather, com bined to forecast a most agreeable contest. The Thames men won the toss, and elected to take the wickets Buckland and Cotton were the Auckland bowlers. Curtis was the only man who made a good stand. He played in good style, and when he had a chance took advantage of it. It Ayill be seen that he made half the total off his own bat. The innings was over at half-past twelve for 58.- The Auckland men fielded fairly, but there Avas a lack of smartness on the part of some of them. Cameron's wicket keeping was excellent. The Mloav ing are the scores :— THAMES. Ist INNINGS. W. W. Robinson b Buckland 3 W. Curtis c Coates b Buckland 29 A. Gr. Buttle b Buckland .. .... 1 J. C. Whitford b Cotton ... ' 2 W. H. Hargreaves cbw, b Cotton .. .. 0 J. B. Steadman, run out 9 John Bull, run out 1 H. Crump b Cotton .. .. o J. 35. Macdonald, not ©at 9 D. R. Gellion b Buckland 0 D. Young b Cotton 1 Byes ;-. '/'"■. ; 3 Total ... .. „ 5S AUCKLAND C.C., Ist INNINGS. Kent c Bull, b Steadman 15 Bunden c Hargreaves b Steadman .. .. 1 W. L. Eees b Robinßon 10

RACING CLUB ENTRIES.

Railway Plate.—Rosalie, Th* Pope, Chanti cleer, Quee& Mab» Ishmaelite, Perfume, Jessa mipe, Izaac Waltou. Handicap Hurdle.—Shanghraun, WMte foot, Butsher Boy, Tui, Greyhound, Tom Finr> fc Luna, Don. Maiden Plate.—Shaughraun, Etmlie, Rat catcher, Chanticleer, Queen Mafo. * ally, GUiie Callum, Tom FiDn, The Baron, Jessamine. Derby Stakes.—The Pope, Quetn Mab, The Baron, Jessamine, Venus Transit. Aucklaxd Platf, -Rosalie, Masrician, Golden Crown, Giilie Callum, I>&ra, Elsa, Hippoc.impus, Venus Transit.

Stewards Handicap —Jta.t,, ai . nlx ■ cleer, Queen Mab. Ishinaeifte^fe' CJW Baron, Jessamine, Izaßc Walton' HW 1 ' Lt »Ul Venus Transit. a ' m PPocatnpu7 Grandstand Handicap.—Whifniw ™ cleer, Queen Mab, Golden Crown ffi'^anti. Lara, Perfume, The Baron. J«KQ«i!r c Cal'nm Walton, Hippocampus. ' Jebßan»>ne, j z ™» Selling Race.—The Pone n i_- Rally, Gillie Callum, Tom Finn TCkfi#teft Izaac Walton.* • ' ilnn '

THE VACATION.

SCHOOL PRIZE LIStS,

MRS LEWIS'S SEMINARY Last Tuesday 13th instant, the pnpils'of w Lewis's establishment, Epsom HouspTnL Alrs Mrs Lewis with a very handiZ' <&l e(i gift, and after a day's pleasure, rece&?i? 3 undermentioned prizes and rewards • uJ i tlw Miss E Paton, Ist prize, classesTdancinV^Y ing, attendance, lessons, exercises ar>3 cad" conduct; Miss Walters, Ist do. lessor go °4 cises, drawing, good conduct, mapniotr: *&*" Calder, Ist do., repetition, Sunday-schnitf'r^s' needlework. French, 2nd prize re °i?^c, Miss S. Robertson, Ist do., early atS 100: good conduct, 2nd prize mapninsy- Mic, n°?> Howard. 2nd do, drawingf^sf'« A day, Ist do., dancing; Miss Bassett'iJ f r' reading; Miss Lewis, 2nd do., SundavJ^ ,• Misses Ellis, Udy, Allen, ParfUAs G a S$ OoU highly commended. 2nd Class. Miss Iff? Brookik-id, Ist prize, good conduct, couS, 1 music; Miss Essje Gratten, Ist do., needlewn! 8 reading, writing, dancing; Miss Annie GaS Ist do., lessons, classes, ciphering renpHnT r Miss Isabella Nicol, 2nd do^repeti&on? m£ M > Mann, Gordon. Heighway, White Gill *3 mended. Boys. Ist class—Willie Cuimw JP° m" ciphering; Harry Gratten, Ist d0.,-wxitin?. PT^ e> Paton, 2nd do., ciphering Percy CtetflS? highly commended. 2nd Class-W. MclS 2nd prize, early attendance, lessons •tS ' Wheeler, Ist do., early attendance exerr,^ 8 dancing. William White, Charles IvS' Thomas Bassett, Alick Gratten, commended!

At the annual distribution of prizes to th scholars attending the Church of Ens-lnr?! Grammar School, Pamell, yesterday the V«, Archdeacon Maunsell occupied the enair Tho Rev. O. M. Nelson read the annual report on \vt examination of the scholars, -which wag mn ; satisfactory. The following is the Examtoert renort:—

First Division.—English subjects. Marimn™ 4.50 :-A F. Williams. 297 ; S. B. Ludbrook? H. L. James, 261. Classics. Maximum 250 •w' E. Percival, 141, very specially commeHdedicm Greek; Dufaur. Fairburn, Ludbrook, and A. P Williams, 103 each. Mathematics and ScienVV Maximum 500: S. B. Ludbrook, 353- A F W« liams, 326; E. J. Fairburn, 262; E. B. HeTwnnfl 261. Scripture. Maximum 100: -W. E. PerriVnT 65; H. L. James, 58; A. F. Williams, 56- SB* Ludbrook, 55. ' '

Second division.—English subjects Man" mum 400: G. A. Kissling, 211; H. Manual* 203; H. H. Gould, 191. Classics. Maximnm 200: Larkins, 83; K. Adams., 80; H. Pounds 76 Mathematics and Science. Maximum 400 •' R. H. Gould, 218; Larkins, 191; Lowrie, 160. ScriD ture. Maximum 100: G. A. Kissling, 55- H Maunsell, 55; Larkins, 51. ' ' '

Third Division.—English. Maximum 250• Felton, 166; C. Harden, 157. Mathematics! Maximum 50: J. Fairburn, 39 ;C. Harden 36. Classics. Maximum 100: Felton, 72;. J. Fair burn. 66. Scripture. Maximum 50: C. Harden 23; Felton, 18.

I have the honour to remain, gentlemen, your obedient servant, Charles M. Nelson, M. A. Examiner. • '

Prize List.

First Division (Holy Scriptures).—Bishop's Prize; W. X Percival, Ist,; H. L. James, 2nd.

Second Division.—Herbert Maunsell, George S. Kissling.

First Division.—Rev. J. Bates's Prize: S. B. Ludbrook, scholar, English; Arthur Williams, classics; W. PJ. Percival, mathematics and science; S. B. Ludbrook, general excellence* Edwin Fairirarn, good answering; Andrew Hanna, H. L. James, and E. B. Heywood. Second Division.—Scholar, Harry Gould: general excellence, Russell Larkins; good answering, George S. Kissling, Herbert Sfaun sell. Ernest Adams.

Third Division.—Scholar, Herbert Felton; good answering, Charles Harden, John Fair burn, Percy Williams, Cecil Adams. Drawing.—H. L. James, M. C. Smith.

Mrs Cowie distributed the prizes to the yonng gentlemen who had won prizes at the athletic sports. At the conclusion, cheers were given for the chairman, head master,'parents, and guardians. Several readings were given by the pupils in a very creditabla manner; "Brutus and Cassius," by H. Pounds and E. Adams, being especially good, "The Charare of the Light Brigade," by T. Kerr. and "The Ocean,"byJ. Hall, coming next in order of merit MOUNT HOBSON SCHOOL.

The distribution of prizes to the children at tending the Mount Hobson District School toot place yesterday at 2 o'clock, in the new school room on the Epsom Road. There was a large attendance of scholars, and many of the parents and friends "were present to witness the interesting ceremony. Tha chair was occupied by Mr|F. G. Clayton, chairman of the District School Committee, and delivered an appropriate opening address. The Rev. G. B. Munro then addressed the children, after which, the prizes were distributed. At the conclusion of this ceremony the chairman, on behalf of the boys attending the 3chool, pre sented a handsome inkstand to Mr Airey, as a mark of respect and of their appreciation of Ma efforts in their education. Votes of thanks were passed by acclamation to the Rev G. B. Munro, the chairman, the School Committee, and tha friends who had contributed towards the fund for the purchase of prizes. In acknowledging the compliment the Rev. G. B. Munro spoke in eulogistic term 3of the excellent management of the school by Mr Airey. who is about to remove to assume the control of the Mangare school. LADIES' SEMINARY, MANUKAU KOAD. The distribution of prizes to the young ladies attending Miss Robertshaw's Seminary took place yesterday. A highly satisfactory reportof the examination was read, showing that great care and skill had been exhibited in the educar tion and training of the irapils. The prize list was as follows:—First examination prize. Miss McjColl; second examination prize, Miss A. Copland; drawing, Miss Bruce; general excel lence in conduct and studies. Miss Cunningham; music, .Miss Hogg; Latin, Miss McColl.

THE CAMBRIDGE RACES.

(Fbom Our. Own Corkbspoitdent).

Cambridge, December 18. At a meeting of the Stewards it was decided,as will be seen by the programme in your colunas, to add another race—a Hack Selling Hurdle Race—iv consequence of the liberal support they have met from the public. This will make eight events, and should be sufficient. 1a& admirers of the turf trust that the weather will bo fine, so that the public will be able to -witness one of the best day's sport this season outside Auckland. The Cambridge Reed Band will Be in attendance to add to the pleasures of m day. MR AND MRS TAVARES. . Mr and Mrs Morton Tavares give w Cambridge people a treat which is seldotoseea in the country, and was very well attended. THS NEW PUBLIC HALL. The Cambridge Public Hall is tobeopenea on the 27th, and we trnat Mr wnitarar will arrive in time to take part in the opening. In the evening there will be a concert. uhbv bridge just at the present time wears a pronur ing appearance, as some of the buildings in w» course of erection are fast- aPProacnin^^a tion. It is expected that Mr W. Walker wu take the National Hotel over to-morrow aner noon. ':■>

TELEGRAPHIC.

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.

COROMANDEL* this day. LATEST MINING NEWS. , The Tokatea tribute got 634, ozs of g<«a from the crashing yesterday. . The Pacolus are getting out good sm> from the stopes. . wa3 A meeting of the lona, Directors w» held to-day to consider the- amalgam""" 1 of the Palmerston, lopa, and Golcondfc An examination of the- children oi^ Driving Creek school took place y^f^J and passed off satisfactorily, and ttfljwj great credit on the master Avho had c Dr?"°. f them to such a state of profiojj Several children leaveto-day to Pj***^ animation for scholarships W Aucw under the Board of Education. .- The carpfrohi the Acclimitisation bowi to Mr George MoLeod arrived by » rf steamer last Bight.. The peogj.J Coromandel are grateful to the bocieiy to Mr McLeod.

WELLINGTON, f^% The special committee appointed o City Council paid a visit of ■JMp eS& the waterworks yesterday. .1™" W fa most unfavourable-.. They «smo»^ works as at a standstill, or nearly wj^ onlyfoui or live workmen on t. A t ßl <s seemingly with nothing to do, ana anything appsu-ently having °ee^ nX io some time past They express t» «v^. that from, the amount of work yei* c, ing to be done there is jio prospect; w rf Avateiworks extension being openeu least sevea or eight weeks to come.

[PRESS AGBNG3T.]

NAPiEB,*!"!^

RECEPTION OF THE PREM^* *; NATIVE MIHISTEB.^

The Hinemoa, with Sir Georg|^ Tllf Mr Sheehan, arrived iiere yesterrtay-^ were escorted from the Spit by a J«e^ ber of people, aud were drawn # in a

'.BE lUWNG STAR; SATURDAY. DECEMBER 15, 1877.



CARPETS, HEARTHRUGS, LINOLEUM, FLOORCLOTH. T. & H. COOKE Beg to inform tJieir friends and the public that they have imported a large assortment of the above, which will render their FURNISHING ESTABLISHMENT one of the most complete and extensive in Auckland, having purchased these Goods of the Manufacturers direct, for cash, they are enabled to offer them at VERY LOW FRIGES. New Patterns in Carpets and Linoleum. $2gr SHOW ROOMS: 67, Queen-street. Steam Cabinet Factory Victoria-street. rfIHE undersigned are now brin ing JL forward a Large Parcel of GENE AL DRAPERY, HABERDASHERY, &C bought at considerably less than usual prices, to which they invite the attention of all requiring Good Value For Money. Corsets in great variety of quality and style, ■white and coloured, from 2/6 per pair Linen and Lace Goods, Cufts, Collars, and Sets, in variety Ladies' Underclothing Umbrellas and Parachutes, Silk, Zanella, Alpacca, &c. Lot of Flowers at very low price, quite fresh Straw Hats. Ribbons, Gloves, &c. A Splendid Stock of Muslin, Lace, and Lenoe Curtains, Counterpanes, Quilts, Damask Table Cloths, Sheeting, Felt Squares Carpets, Floorcloth, China Matting, Ticks, &c. Large-size Huckaback Towels at /6 each New Fancy Dress Materials, Japanese Silks, Coloured Lustres, Black Lustres. Embossed, Striped, and Check Muslins, Prints, &c. Brown Holland, from /6J per yard Union, Fancy Jean, and Oxford Shirtings, very cheap A Line of Superior Quality Silk Mixed Fancy Shirting, at 2/3, usual price 3/6 per yard "White and Grey Calico. Good Grey from /3 per yard Also, very large assortment of Gents' Shirts, White Longcloth, Union and All-wool Crimean, Fancy Silk Mixed Scotch Twill, Fancy Jean, Oxford, &c. Strong Tweed for Boys wear A Job Line of Stout Mosgiel at below Factory prices Braces, Belts, Ties. Scarfs, Collars, Cotton and Merino Hosiery, Undershirts, &c. Leghorn, Tuscan, Straw, and Drill Hats, for SSBoys and Men, &c, &c, &c. Jin he £ allowed on all Cash Purchases of 20s. and upwards. rushbrook & bridgman, Junction Drapery "Warehouse, / uppbe queen-stkkkt, ATTOBXAKD. /~1 H E A P IT ATS! CHEAP HATS ! ! CHEAP CLOTHING !! A Quantity of Men's and Boy's Drab and Black Felt Hats will be offered at &F GREAT REDUCTION TO CLEAR. Also, a Parcel of CLOTHING, , comprising Men's and Boy's Tweed Suits, Trousers and Vests, &c. These Goods are slightly soiled, and will be sold REALLY CHEAP. W. RATTRAY, CLOTHIER AND OUTFITTER. •VT E W 7EALAND TTO.USE, AUCKLAND. UNION INSURANCE COMPANY OF NSW ZEALAND. CAPITAL .• £2,000,000. AUCKLAND BRANCH: QUE-EN-STREET, Next the Colonial Bank. - - - . FIRE DEPARTMENT. Insurances granted on Dwelling-houses, Stores, Shops, Buildings in which trade is carried on. Merchandise, and Goods of every •description. MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers, Merchandise of all kinds. Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at ov-'est Current Rates. K. H. STEVENSON Manager^ /CHRISTMAS, PAST AND PRESENT. A Lecture on this subject, interspersed with Music and Carols, will be delivered in Franklin Koad Primitive Methodist Chapel, on Christmas Eve, by JWr. J. Blackman, in aid of the Building .Fund. Admission—Ot;e Shilling. Synopsis of-Lecture in a future issue.



MASONIC INSTALLATION. — Forgthe Outgoing Mail, a few copies of the Evening Stab containing the Fnll Account of theg above Installation on hand, and may be ha d from the Publisher. I^Tew Spring and Summer dress materials. — --{H. ATKINS } — Has now for Sale, CHEAP, a Spleadl Assort ment of * tar NEW DRESS GOODS, =©a suitaoie for the Spring and Summer Seaso* of every variety, style, quality, and texture. CH eft w< i™ ££J Attention is respectfully invited to this Season's Shipment, which is the Largest nnd Best-selected ever shewn in the city. The Prices are also very reasonable, Also, Just Opened, MANCHESTER GOODS, CALICOES, SHEET INGS, QUILTS, BLANKETS, LONG CURTAINS. TABLE LINEN, &c. A Great X eduction has been made in the Prices of Manchester Goods, owing to the reduced List of the Home manufacturers. NEW SUMMER CLOTHING, SHIRTS, HATS, &c, Just Received. Splendid Lines in Auckland & Melbourne-made CLOTHING. The Largest Stock of MOSGJEL & IMPORTED ..TWEEDS in Auckland to select from. €S" Tailors Supplied at Wholesale Prices GENTLEMEN'S ORDERS EXECUTED. A Large Lot of Cheap Tweeds for 80/sr's Wear. H. ATKINS NEVER Have the Public had such a Choice of BED STEADS offered them as at the present time ! Besides our already well assorted Stock of Iron Bedsteads, and those of our own manu facture in Kauri, Rimu, Cedar, and Mottled Kauri, we ask them to bear in MIND that we have Just Openf.d Up, ex ''Otaki.' TWO HUNDRED IRON BEDSTEADS of the most modern style, comprising Frencii. Half Tester, Children's, and Stumps, also Cots, at Prices to suit all classes. Having purchased for Cash from THE Best Manufacturers, we can SELL A GOOD BEDSTEAD at a Very Low Price. BEDDING, of every description, kept in Stock. HOUSES FURNISHED THROUGHOUT at a Short Notice. Our system is to make a large return ; to insure this We Sell for Ready CASH at a Small Profit, and DELIVER GOODS FREE to any part of the Town and Suburbs. 82T Give your Furnishing Order to Holloway, G-arlick & Cranweli, CABINETMAKERS, UPHOLSTERERS, AND CLOTHIERS, City Hall Arcade, QUEEN & LORNE-STREETS AUCKLAND. |HkN THIS DAY AND DURING THE WEEK, 'W X WILL SHOW HEo? ES 10,000 PI^ BS FASHIONABLE DRESS GOODS AND xssr PRINTS. "®R REDUCED TO HALF PRICE IN ORDER TO CLEAR. J. COSGRAVE & CO., QUEEN-STREET. T^TATIONAL FIRE AND MARINE JLN INSURANCE COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND. Capital £1,000,000, Reserve £50,000. Re-Insurance Fund .... £20,000. Insurances effected against Fire and Marine Loss of Every Description of Property, at Lowest Current Rates. Pkompt and Libkkal Settlement of Claims. HENR\T E. WILLIAMS, Manager, Auckland Branch. OS £&<(\ REWARD cc HITCHEN'S $jJL\7X.V BLOOD RESTORER. As several Bottles, containing trashy worth less compounds, have been palmed off on un suspecting people on the pretence of their b^ing the celebrated " Biitchens' Blood Restorer," the Proprietor respectfully cautions his patients to see that the Bottles bear both his Trade Mark and Signature. He also warns the unscrupu lous persons who, under false pretences, receive people's money, that iSIOO Pounds Reward will be given on conviction of persons guilty of infringing his rights. H. HITCHENS. Gtßand Show OF STJMMBB COSTUMES. A. LINABURY & CO. HAVE JUST OPENED UP 486 COSTUMES, Comprising— BLACK SILK COSTUMES COLOURED SILK COSTUMES JAPANESE SILK COSTUMES HOLLAND COSTUMES • FRENCH BATISTE COSTUMES BRAIDED PIQUE COSTUMES FRENCH PRINT COSTUMES CAMBRIC COSTUMES BLACK SILK SKIRTS, with Body Pieces COLOURED SILK SKIRTS, with Bod Pieces HANDSOME BRAIDED LINEN COS TUMES and SKIRTS, with Body Pieces to match. The above GOODS were purchased at a Heavy Discount off English Invoice, and will be offered to the Public at ENGLISH COST. i Inspection Invited. ATINABURY & f^O., « JLJ \_y 204 & 206, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAKD.



ggWhat is more nefarious than selling adultera ted and poisonous drams labelled and bottled to imitate a pure and health-yielding medicinal beverage. This is precisely what the rogues are doing who sell imitations of the celebrated Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps put up in bottles which previously held that incomparable cordial and specific for disease. Let the public beware of such shams. CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND. HMails will Close as Under : For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, per Argyle, on Monday next, at 11.30 a.m. For Taranaki and Wanganui, via Waitara, per Hauraki, this day, at 4.20 p.m. For Russell, Kawa Kawa, Wangaroa, and Moagonni, per lona, on Monday next, at 4 p.m. Fcr Rnssell and'Kawa Kawa, per Taupo, on Mond ly nest, at & p.m. For Tairua, per Mercury, on Monday next, at 3 p.m. For Waiwera, Kawau, Omaha, and Matakana, per Anne Milbank, on Tuesday next, at 10 a.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Taranaki, on Tuesday next, at 2.45 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Wainu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Argyle, on Tuesday next, at 4 p.m. For Australian Colonies, per Rotorua, on Wed nesday next, at 11 a.m. For Wbitiangi, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowena, on Wednesday next, at 4 p.m. Per s.s. City of Sydney, on Wednesday next, as follows: - For bandwich Inlands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 11 a.m. For Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 11 a.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 9.30 a.m. Late letters, bearing an Jextra fee of 6d, in addition to the postage, will be received by the mail asrent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. EN.B. —Mails despatched to Waitemata Mills, Helens ville, and all Offices in the Kaipara Dis trict, will close at this Office at 12.50 p.m., in stead of at noon, as heretofosp. S. B, BISS, Chief Postmaster.