SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

r--tr.m_D 'This Afternoon, ?,21 HIGH WATER—, To . TOOrrow Morning, 5.16 .^V SET.—This Evening. L57 SUN RISE-—To-morrow Morningr. 0.07 MOON'S AGE.—First Quarter, 20b, 0.35 p.m.

DEPARTURES.

Emily Chaplin, barque, for Newcastle

The Drover, brig, has cleared out for Hobart Town • the Syren, brio, for Sydney: and the Amherst, brgaiitine, for NeAvcastle, via \\an garoa. ... -.- - 7 , i The ship J. N. Fleming from New Zealand, arrived at London on May 12th. The s s Hawea Avill not arrive at Onehunga until Friday about 1 p.m., having been detained at Nelson. . The s.s. Wellington, for southern ports, nav mio- been ueableto cross the Bar this morning, will leave Onehunga Wharf at 8.30 a.m. to-mor row Pas^en^ers by 7 a.m. train. The following are 'the pa-_en?ci_: Mr and' Mrs Hamilton, and 2 children. Mr and Mrs Thomas. Mr and Mrs Bourne, Captain Malcolm, Messrs Shore, Targett, Holder. Bayley, Cramond. Stuart. Robinson, and 7 steerag".—Henderson and Macfarlane, agents.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

SYDNJSi - '-"is Q.tJ. Hero sailed for Auckland at eight o'clock yeste rda y '

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Closic as Under:— 0" Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m. ; and to- FmorroAV, at 3.30 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, por Argyls, on I.'riday next at 2.30 p.m. Fn'- Wa-r.arei Heads. Waipu. Wangarei, and Miitigapai, per Ar.vlc. this day, at ! p.m. For Kawau, per Heather Bell, this day. at -1 p.m For R_=sell, per Jessie, to-morrow, at '.< a.m. For Tauranga. Gisborne, Napier, and Southern Province?, per "Wanaka. to-mon-ow, at, 3 p.m. Money orders, registered letters, and neAVS paners. at 2 p.m. ' Late letters will be received till 2.30 p.m, For Whitiangi, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowena, to-morrow, at 1 p.m. For Waiwera, Warkworth, and Te Arai, per _nnie Milbank. on Thursday next, at 10 a.m. For Levuka, per Jessie Henderson, on Thursday next, at 3 p.m. For Australian Colonies, per City of Ncav York, immediately after her arrival from Honolulu. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Hawea. en =aturdar next, at 1' a.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Wellington, to-morro\s-, at G a,.in. S. B. HISS. Chief Postmaster.

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

TUESDAY, MAY 15, 1877.

For the cause that lacks assistance, .or the wron _ that needs resistance, For tile future i:\ this dist..ice, Ana the good that we can do

OUB cablegrams this afternoon, detailing the progress of operations at tiie seat of Avar are of more than usual interest. If the Turkish official account can bo relied on, the engagement before Batoum was a battle of a very important character. Tiie slaughter of forty thousand Russians in a

single engagement on tbe Asiatic frontier, at this early stage of the war is, however, so improbable that avc must take it cum grano salis. On the Danube, ihe Russians are concen trating artillery, with the object of covering the passiige of the river, and destroying the Turkish gunboats which, under Hobart Pasha, have been vigorously employed in harassing the enemy's advance. One gunboat has been sunk at Ibrail, about ten miies south of Galatz, with loss of two hundred men. There is no confirmatory intelligence of tbe defeat of the attempted crossing at Reni, but there can hardly be a doubt that so

soon as the intended dispositions of the Russian army arc made, a crossing -will be effected under cover of a heavy fire from batteries on the Roumanian side. The resolution passed by the Roumanian Chamber of Deputies resolving to throw off the suzerainty of the Sultan, is virtually a declaration of Avar against Turkey ; but the previous active sympathies and assist ance of the Principalities make the an nouncement at this stage of little moment. The stateement made by Earl Derby that the English Government would take measures for the protection of the Suez canal has been {unfilled in the despatch of a squadron to Port Said at tiie Mediterranean entrance of the great water-way to India.

SOMETHING very like a Avar panic is agitating the Southern press. The " Otago Daily Times" thinks it would be a poor look-out for Dunedin if a Russian cruiser made its appearance off Ocean Beach, and suggests that the colony should appeal to the Imperial GoA-ernmeiit to carry out defensive Avorks immediately, either by sea or land, charging the colony Avith the cost. Those fears, as Aye haA _ before pointed out, are not Avithout substantial ground. At the banquet-to His Excellency the Governor, recently tit Invcrcargill, Commodore Hos kins remarked on the extent of the area which the Australian and South Pacific licet had to protect. He said that in the event of England being embroiled in Avar the danger to this colony from a hostile attack, was, in his opinion, small. The work at the outbreak of a Avar betAveen tAvo great nations Avas so concentrated that no large detachments could be spared to attack the colonies. The danger was rather from a small expeditionary force, or from privateers. In case of Avar being declared, our commerce could be carried almost entirely in fast steamers. As for lighting on land, the danger was a remote one, althougu fie agreed that the young men of the colony should be prepared for that. A little military training was tin admirable thing for them, as it taught them something of discipline, and also lioav to carry themselves Avell. Ncav Zealand Avould want in Avar time torpedoes for its harbours, ami tAvo Armstrong guns in addition would keep a harbour tolerably secure." This is precisely the vieAv that is generally entertained, and the knowledge that avc are not in a position to resist even the attacks of privateers is the feature of our position Avhich Aye have special reason to deplore. The chance of an expedition to the colonies, having con quest and acquisition of territory as its object, is a very remote one. But military and naval authorities agree in believing that a blow Avould be aimed at British commerce by means of privateers. The " United Service Gazette" discussing the question

pondents,' that large sums would bo forthcoming from priA-ate sources alone for the purchase and equipment of privateers in different parts of world. There is no reason whatever to doubt the truth of such information. The squadron Russia had in the Mediterranean has been ordered to America. Safety from capture may be one motive, but there is also another that it is as well, taking the chapter not only of the possibilities but probabilities into account, should not be overlookod. The Russian ships of Avar Avhile iii the waters of the United States, need not have ou board their full complement of officers and men to insure their safety in those neutral Avaters. Other or more effective work Avould be ready to their hands in the event of Avar. The electric cable Avould no sooner haA'e coiiA'oyed the news of hostilities between tho two countries having been proclaimed, than the schome which has been fully organised would be put in force, which is nothing more nor less than the manning of a fleet of privateers with officers and men from the Russian squadron. The Russian admiral, Aritb the power conferred upon him of issuing letter; of marque, Avo.ld thus bo able to act almost instantaneously, and before even a sufficient number of English men-of-war could be collected upon the station, a terrible com mercial blow would have been struck at English commerce. It is useless to talk of tho neutrality of the United States, and of neutral ports. A iieet of Russian Alabamas would be abroad and at work. The lirst intimation of the fact Avould be tho English merchant A'essels sent in as prizes. But this is not all. Let us turn our glance from the Atlantic and the United States to the shores of Eastern Asia and the North Pacific Ocean. Here ara parts of which Aye hear little. There is neither press nor special correspondent to tell us Avhat is doing. Occa sional rumours only reach this country as to Russian activity at the mouth of the Amoorat PetropauloA.kii—a namo that certainly does not bring back the pleasantost of reminiscences to either England, or hernaA'y. The mouth of tbe Amoor.too, say Cast racs Bay, has also unpleasant memories connected with it. Then there is the southernmost of the latest of Russia's territorial acquisitions in China Seas. If Aye glance at these Aye And sufficient cause for anxiety. In each and all of these ports Russia will be found to have A-essels fully armed and equipped, of great sail-power, that could keep tiie sea for months, ready ro launch forth against our ships sailing from CaUfornia, India, and Japan. This is no ideal picture ; it is a reality.

We need scarcely point out that one av.ll -erruipped cruiser, if successful in eluding the men-of-war on the Australian .station, could exact more money from any of the leading New Zealand ports than would, if judiciously applied, render all our harbours impregnable to any but first-class battle ships. The matter is one that should not be lightly disregarded, and if anything effective is to be done, it must be taken in hand early in the approaching session of Parliament. A tithe of the money that has been absolutely wasted during the past few years would have amply protected the mil lions sterling that now lie at the mercy of any enemy. The Government should lose no time in requesting Sir William -lervtis, now at Sydney, to make an examination of the Ncav Zealand coast, and Parliament would, doubtless, be guided very largely by Ids recommendations

A RETURN of the accounts of the Govern ment Savings Banks of the colony for the quarter ended 31st March, 1877, is given in the "Gazette." The total amount of deposits during the period, leaving out shil lings and pence, was £170,211, while the withdrawals exceeded that amount by .t'7S!>4. During the corresponding quarter of last year the deposits were £6922 larger, Avhile the withdrawals only exceeded de posits by £3.63. The fact remains, how ever, that during both periods there were very large withdrawals from the bank, which may indicate cither that there Avas a diminution of savings consequent npon a time of depression amongst the principal customers of the Savings Hanks' or that large sums had been taken out for advan tageous investment. The former of these suppositions is, however, the more probable of tire two. The figures shew that the number of Savings Lank accounts opened during the quarter was 25.17, and closed _2(i.'l, shewing an increase of 504, but the number of accounts opened was 2!)7 under that during the corresponding quarter of last year. The number of deposits was' 14,824, aud of withdrawals 0654. Whilst on the subject of Savings Banks it may be interesting to many of our readers who hail from the Emerald Isle to point out that; the returns of postal banks in that country indicate ;i most prosperous condition. The deposits ut the end of IS7C amounted to £981,000 being nn increase over the previous year of £93,000.

The insurances on the store and stock burnt at Masterton on Saturday, were :— Liverpool London and (Jlobe; £1,500: North ern, £1,000 ; Ncav Zealand, £1,000 ; Smith British, £1,000; Standard, £1,000; Batavia, £500 ; Norwich Union. £,300 ; Victoria, £1.000; National, £1,500; the third of which has been re-insured. It is reported that the proprietors of the Theatre Royal at Christchurch haA'e com menced an action for libel against the " Licensed Victualler's Gazette," for damag ing remarks on the theatre. It is expected that the inmates of the Hospital Avill be transferred to the new building in the course of a fortnight. A telegram from Sydney of the 14th inst. reports the arrival of the Rotorua, and tiie departure of the s.s. Hero. The underwriters in Melbourne have placed a A\-ar risk of one-half per cent upon outward A ressels and cargoes.

The poll for the election of Councillors for j the Borough of Onehunga takes place on : Friday next. The young men of St. James' Mutual j Improvement Class tried their qualifications-: at extemporaneous speaking last evening, ' with some success. Mr J. C. Mackey, ! spoke on "Courtship," Mr A. C. Steele, on '■ the " best form of government," Mr ! McNab, on the progress of discoA'ery and j civilisation, and. Mr Schmidt,, on charity. j

A final meeting of Creditors in the estate ] John Jebb Gill Taylor, of Kahanharapa.4 Road NeAvton, painter, was held this day i at the Supreme Court Buildings at 10 o'clock, j at which it was unanimously resolved that j the Bankrupt receive- his final discharge. : The liabilities amounted to £90. A correspondent who signs himself "S. j E. W" writes to the " Wellington Post" j denying tbe statement, orignally pub- j lished in this journal, that Hobart Pasha ; served on board the 11.M.5. Calliope in ; Ncav Zealand and was known as "the j wild midshipman." The correspondent stats that he served A\-ith the Hon. A.C. ' Hobart inH.M.S.S. Rattler, when-he was ! esteemed " sans peur sans reproche" He thinks the " wild midshipman" was H.F. j M. Kellop, who was in the Calliope It ■ Avill be sufficient to state in reply to this < contradiction that the paragraph published j in the Star was based upon information | obtained from a letter written by a General j iioav in England but who had seiwed in. j Ncav Zealand, to a resident in Auckland, j The General wrote that he had con- j versed with Hobart Pasha in England, j and. that during the interview reference j Avas made to former times in this colony, j and the General reminded his old friend of the time when he AA-as known as the " wild midshipman," and they cracked a bottle , over the joke. !

The " Thames Advertiser" noticing the enlargement of the Stak, and the starting of our iioav machinery, says : " The Auck land Star of Saturday is the largest sheet !

ever produced in Ncav Zealand for the ' money. It is an eight-paged double neA\-s j sheet, or 56 columns of type. Mr Brett, J the spirited proprietor, has just imported a double feeder Wharfdale (the "Advertiser" is content with a single-feeder Wharfdale) ! printing machine, capable of turning od be- ! tAveen 3,500 and 4,000 copies an hour, and has erected ucav motive power, with a fold- | ing machine capable of keeping pace with the Wharfdale in preparing copies for ! delivery. This ucav machinery would in volve an outlay of nearly tAA'O thousand pounds, and speaks Avell for the go-ahead character of our enterprising contem porary." I

A hurricane burst over Wellington on the . Sth inst., but no damage Avas done in tbe j harbour. ; Tbe Turkish names appear to ]>:-~..10 some ____________________________________________

A wedding which excited considerable in terest took place at Alexandra, Waikato, a feAV days ago. The bridegroom is avcll knoAvn in Auckland as an old settler, and he h..s achieved a colonial reputation for the quality of his brews. Tha bride isthc daugh ter of a military settler in Waikato, and in the capacity of housekeeper to the bride groom, succeeded iv winning his mature affections. He has attained the age of 75, and the lady is but 25. It is said that there is much tribulation amongst several dash ing; members of the A.C. who were paying, their addresses to the young lady. In the Court of baukrupcv yesterday, Mr j Macffarlane Avas appointed trustee in the estate of G. F. Rees. In the case of Thomas ' Lupton, the creditors, having heard the trustee's report, granted the final certificate. J. Slater also received his final certificate, his estate having been liquidated. j

The Teachers' conference at Christchurch carried resolutions in favour of free, com pulsory, and religions, but uusectarian education, supported byaconscienceclau.se, the obtaining of first-class certificates by success in teaching and length of service, and the establishment of secondary middle class schools, Avhence children from tho public schools may proceed to the Univer sity.

The installation of the officers of tha Eden Terrace Lodge, 1.0. G.T. (No. S), for the present quarter took place last night at the Lodge-room, Eden Terrace, when the follow ing were installed by Bro. Edger, G.AV.C. T., assisted by Bro. O.S. Ellis, G.W.S., and Bro. Bro.king, G.W.M :—W.C.T., Bro. Waite; W.V.T. Sister Blakeley ; .Secre tary, Bro. S. Worms ; F.S., Bro. K. D. Svkes ; Treasurer, Sister Mcars ; ' C., Bro. Coad; M., Bro. Blakeley; R.H.S., Sister Worms; L. H.S., Sister Heighway; A.S., Bro. Mcars ; D.M., Sister A. Mcars.

There is a Yankee blade iv Bangor who is so sharp that he often uses himself to shave people. Noav and then he gets lathered himself, but never shaved.

An Oregon boy, avlio got to school the other day a few minutes before the master and his fellows, declined a vacancy, and east the whole vote of the school in favor of a holiday.

CABLEGRAMS.

[press agency.]

THIS DAT.

THE WAR.

Iwoumania Daolarss Hsr In&op.n-

de_iCG

Battles of Beni Unconfirmed

Russian Batteries Sink Turkish

Gunboats

Battle of Batoum- - Alleged Russian Loss 10,000-

British Squadron Ordered to fort Said.

LONDON, May 13. Received after midnight on the 14th : — The Roumanian Chamber of Deputies

have passed a resolution to authorise- the securing of independence of Roumania.. The accounts of the battle of Reni are not yet confirmed. The Russian batteries at Ibrail sunk a Turkish ironclad with tAvo hundred men on board. The official despatches state that the Russian troops haAre arrived nt I>_kin. (v Widdin.)

The Turkish official despatches state that a Russian army corps unsuccessfully attacked the Turkish, intrenchments near Batoura (? Batoum), and Avas repulsed, with a loss of forty thousand men.

A British squadron has been ordered to Port Said.

Destruction of a Town by Earth quake

Mr Gladstone's Motion

In the House of Commons, the debate on

Mr Gladstone's motion urging the Govern ment to exert its influence on behalf oi the Christians in Turkey, was

continued. The Ccnscrvatives and Whigs Avere favourable to neutrality. Tiie Liberals were divided, some favouring the dismemberment of Turkey, Avhile others were opposed to Mr Gladstone's views

liquiquc, on the west coast of South America, Avas destroyed by an earthquake. [Iquique is a seaport town, and island m Peru, in the department Ariguipa, province of Taracapa. The island is close upon the coast ; lat. 20° 12' 30" S., long. 70° 14' 45" W. It has been considerably reduced in height, in consequence of the immense quantity of guano taken from.it.

The seaport opposite the island (tbe town '■ destroyed) lias a population of a thousand. It is situated on a plain of sand, at a foot of a wall of rock, 200> ft. high. It lias a gloomy and miserable' appearance, and is destitute both of water and firewood. Near it are valuable saltpetre works, the-produce of which is exported to-England and' France, and tAvo rich silver mines were at one time wrought there.

The Recent Gale.

The Sarah Pile in Danger.

From our Own Correspondent.)

WAIUTvU, Monday 4,30 p.m. I have just returned from, the Waikato Heads. The Sarah Pile had a narroAv escape on Sunday morning on the Waikato bar. She could not weather the land, and the captain was about to. beach her, but afterwards determined to run the gauntlet, in which he succeeded. The crew haA'e had a hard time of it on board. She left again yesterday, and got Avell od" the laud before night, though it is still blowing A-ery heavily.

Narrow Escape of the Brigantine Sarah Pile.

PORT WAIKATO. We haA-o received the following from the master : —" Sir, —I give here an account of my passage since leaving Westport on May Ist, bound for Kaipara. May 3rd.— Cape Farewell bearing S.E. ; fresh easterly breeze, Avhich increased to a gale next day. Kept heading northward until the sth ; then wore ship, Kaipara Bar east 9S miles. Sunday, 6th inst.—Heavy gale. Hove to ; close-reefed mainsail. 7th.—Wind hauling to northAvard, set loAver topsail ; stood in for the land ; weather thick, blowing hard. Tuesday, Bth.—At 4 p.m. sighted the beach S miles south of Kaipara Bar. Weather cleared up, and Avind hauled to westAvard :

bloAvmg Avith hurricane force. Headed vessel to southward, carrying close-reefed fore-and-aft sails ; making a great deal of leeway ; heavy showers and hari^smialls.

running, prepared to beach the vessel; did not know the land, as it was showery. Cleared on' a little, aud making out the Port, set the topsail, and just weathered the South Head about a ship's length off the Break. Lowered the mainsail down and took the bar, Avith the heaviest sea it has ever been my lot to run through, with success. We arrived safely at anchor about 7 a.m. By kindly inserting the above in your paper, and knowing the extensive circulation it ha*, our friends cannot fail to hear of our safety.—D. B.ISSETT, master Sarah Pile."

BARQUE WILLIAM GIFFORD ASHORE.

A Dunedin telegram reports that the barque William Clifford, which Avas injured by an earthquake shock at Oamaru, Avhile loading for this port, was blown past the Otago Heads by a north east gale, and avus run ashore, in a sinking con dition, one mile from Toitoi harbour. There Avas 11-_ feet of water in the hold, and all hands were working hard. The crew were stived. LATEST. Messrs Niccol and Hendiy haA-e received a telegram to the effect that the William GiffOrd litis become a total wreck, and the Willian and Henry have been laid on for this port. INSURANCE ON THE WILLIAM GIFEORD. Ncav Zealand (cargo) £1300 National (hull) £530 Standard (hull) £330 South British (hull) ... £420

ARRIVAL OF THE HELENA.

Fearful Hurricane in the

Friandly Group

Eeported Loss of the Schooner May Queen and all Hands.

Tjte brigantine Helena, Captain Mollor, arrived off the North Head last night at 9 o'clock. She hails from Tonga and Samoa, and brings a cargo of copra and fibre. The Helena left Tonga on the 4th inst., and had strong westerly winds the greater part of the passage. The Poor Knights were made yesterday morning, and she arrived as above. During the hurricane referred to elsewhere, the Helena avus at Samoa. She is consigned lo Messrs Wm. McArthur and Co.

Passengers—l!. W. Rattle, Mr. and Mrs. Moses David, Captain Savory, Mr. Coven try, and Mr. Gribbon.

On Mai eh 18th, the May Queen sailed from Eoa, having taken on board a cargo of sheep. A hurricane came on suddenly, and the vessel was lost sight of. Nothing has since been seen or heard of her, although tho King of Tonga and the man-of-war Sappho have used every effort to trace her.

The hurricane lasted for 24 hours, and has destroyed all the cocoanuttrecsonTonga tahii and the Kcppils. Nearly a thousand houses and 1(1 churches were I>loaa"ii doAvn. It is generally believed at the Group that the vessel is lost with all bands. Captain Menzies, latc.chicf officer of the Countess of Kintorc, Avas in command, and the folloAv ing AA-ere knoAvn to be on board :—-Mr Geo. Bullock, salesman to the firm of OAven and Graham, Mr. Geo. Oavcii, junr., (Air. Geo. Owen Avas a partner in the firm of Hales, Oavcii, and Co., of Tonga), son of Mr. G. R. Oavcii, W. J. Luke, the mate, Thomas Sicklcr, cook, and a crew of four Kan akas. Mrs Menzies had landed at Samoa.

Tbe ketch Pearl during tbe hurricane Avas thrown high and dry on the reef at Tonga. When the Helena left, they had almost got her oil", slightly injured.

A deputation of Samoan chiefs have gone to Fiji in the barque Menschikoff, to claim English protection for Samoa, All trouble is at an end.

Further Particulars.

[FROM A CORRESPONDENT.]

TONGA. 2nd May.

We have been visited by a fearful ; calamity. •On Sunday, the lSth March, at I 12 noon, a gale set in from the N.E., and j gradually increased to a perfect hurricane |by Monday. It blew tbe hardest from 7to 9 p.m., and then commenced to moderate. The damage done to the Group .vas enor mous, and it is estimated that OA-er tA\-o years must elapse before Tonga becomes Avhat it AA-as prior to the gale. Such a storm has not been experi enced here since ISO'O. Between six and seven hundred houses have been bJr.Avn d©Avn ; thousands of eocoanut trees were torn u)i by the roots ; all the windows of Government House were bloAvn out, and general ruin caused till oa-ci- the island. ' The ketch Pearl, and the schooner May i Queen left Tonga, for Eoa, to load sheep, on the 17th March, but, the weather being bad, only a feAV were got on board Avhen it was determined to run back to Tonga, Both vessels left Eoa on the 18th, and Avere caught in the gale before j arriving at Tonga. The Pearl managed to get in before the passage became impassable, but the May Queen could not get in. She was seen on the lee side of the island on Sunday, the 18th, in the afternoon, lying on her beam ends, but has not been heard of since. It is tantamount to a certainty that she is lost Avith all hands. The indications of the storm Avere visible for three days beforehand. The brigantine Tapaha, belonging to the natives, had all her yards sent down, and Avas the only vessel in Tonga which rode out the hurri cane. The schooner Favourite arrived off Hapai on the lSth, at noon. Three of her sails were carried away, and also the fore stay. Captain Savory then put the vessel before the wind, and narrroAvly escaping several reefs, was enabled to fetch the lee of a small island, where both anchors were dropped, and, by shacklingthe chain round the mast, managed to ride out the storm. She has since been sold to the natives of Vavau, for the sum of £1,004. The ketch Pearl, cutter Prince of Wales (late of Auckland), the ketch William, and the cutter Caroline were all driven high and dry. The Prince and the Caroline have since been re-launched. The Pearl has been brought dOAvn to Avithin 50 feet of the water, but the piece of reef she has yet to be got over is higher and rougher than that she has already traversed. Mr Berryl, late supercargo of the Martha, was here, and was very nearly going in the May Queen instead of Mr Bullock. H.M.S. Sappho took the news of the storm to Samoa when the Helena AA-as there. There is the slightest possible chance that Captain Menzies may have had time to cut away his masts, and alloAT his vessel to drift before the gale, but it is known that the May Queen had no ballast under her timber, and scarcely anyone on the island but what takes it for granted that she AA*as capsized. The brig Vision has been ex pected at Samoa for over a month past, and fears are entertained for her safety. The German man-of-war Augusta, and H.M.S. Sappho, are at Apia. The National has another £300 on tho hull, while the Ncav Zealand offices has an open policy for £2000 on her cargo. Of this, hoAvcvcr, a quarter is re-insured in the Standard, and a quarter in an Australian oflice. By the last mail,word AA-as brought to Messrs. Oavcii and Graham that a large sum of specie was an board, and Aye under stand that only yesterday an insurance on this for £1000 Avas effected in the New Zealand office.

Graham, and Mr C. Holder, and insured for £1,000 in the 3?ew Zealand Insurance Office,

The ketch Pearl belonged to Mr E. Waters, the confectioner, and is insured for £800, also in the Ncav Zealand Oflice. Wc regret to add to this melancholy recital the fact that Mr Bullock leaves a wife and family to mourn his tmtimely end. Ho had been many years in the employ of Messrs Owen and Graham, and was looked upon as a rising man.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before R. C. Barstow, Esq., R. 31. ; and G Yon der Heyde, Esq., J, P.)

Dirjyiv.

Mary Horn ley, alias Rogers, and Mary Falray,were fined 5s and costs for drunken ness.

XO COLLAR

Robert Sargent a\';is charged with having a collarless dog.—Nonstable Jones gave evi dence. —Defendant said although the dog followed him it was not his. Its owner was dead.—Fined Is and costs Ss.

Morton Jones, charged with allowing his

tAvo clegs, Nero and Lion, to be at large at Ponsonby, Avithout having duly licensed tickets affixed, did not appear.— As the defendant had since taken out licenses-, the nominal penalty of 5s and 5s 6'd costs was inflicted. WIFE HEATING. John NcAvbold was charged with assault ing his AAdfe, Mary NeAvbold, by striking and kicking her in a brutal manner.— Defendant, a young man, pleaded not guilty. —Mr Laishley appeared for com plainant, and stated that on Friday last the defendant caime home under the influence of liquor, and illtreated his wife in a brutal manner, striking and kicking her to v fearful extent. He would not ask for punishment, but only that he should be bound over to keep the peace.—Defendant here stated that lie struck his A\-ife with his open hand, but did not kick her.—The Bench avus of opinion that this case was rather too serious to be alloAved to fall through in such a manner as requested. When persons used such brutal conduct towards their wives it AA-as time that the law stepped in and made an example of them. This AA-as another McGrath case, and it Avas plain they were becoming far toe common. The only Avay to put a stop to it was by imprisonment.—Mrs Newbold, a very respectable looking young person, whose eye had been severely bruised and blackened, here burst into tears, and begged their Worships to let the defendant off. Her lit of sobbing increased to such an extent that it seemed probable she would faint.—Their Worships stated to the defendant that he might congratulate him self on the fact that his Avife was present in the Court, and had made such an earnest appeal on his behalf. If it had not been for her tears they Avould certainly ha.A-e sent him to gaol for three months. As it was, however, lie would have to find sureties for himself in the amount of £50, and tAvo sureties of £25 each, to keep the peace for the term of six calendar months. —Defend- ant left the dock smiling grimly.

This concluded the business.

JOURNEYMEN BAKERS.

(To the Editor of the Kvening Stak.) Sir, —in answer to the letter in your issue of the 11th instant signed F.W.H., regard ing the journeymen of Auckland imposing upon the employers, or. in the words of the letter, the employer being in the hands of the journeymen, avc feel confident that no employer had anything to do with, or wrote such a letter, and furthermore the writer is not a baker, and knows nothing about the trade at all, but is simply some baker's ctirter who Avishes to bring his name before the public, and if he is a man, Avill sign his name in full to the next letter which he puts in the paper. I think that the greatest number of employers are satisfied AA-ith the hours worked by the journeymen—10 hours per day is surely enough for any ordinary man to work. He says that he will not meddle with the Avages. AHoav me to tell him that tbe wages paid to journeymen in Dunedin are much superior to those of Auckland. Hoping that our worthy correspondent Avill think more over the next letter which he puts iv the columns of your paper, and not let the public and journey men sec too plainly who lie is that writes, — I remain, sir. yours respectfully, JoiIX GEACIK, Secretary A.J.B.A.

Another "Member of the Society" writes to the same effect. We have also a second letter from "A Sufferer," whose former communication Aye spoke of as "intem perate." He says :" If I had the learning of a divine and the pen of a ready Avriter", I Avould convince you that my letter was cold and very tame, compared to the anathemas that God, in his wrath, pro nounced against them." He quotes the folloAA-ing texts : Jude, 13th to 17th verse ; Isaiah, 57th chap., I7th v. ; James, sth chap., Ist v. ; Malachi, 3rd chap., sth v. ; Job, 24th chap., 10th v. ; Deuteronomy, 24th chap.. 19th a-.; Leviticus, 19 chap., 9th and 10th a-., and adds: " The Lord, in His goodness, lias crowned the year with a plentiful harvest. The thousands of acres of smiling corn are a proof of His love to all mankind ; but the rich and covetous, foi.staffers grasping the golden grain, turn it into a scourge against the" poor and needy. They say it is speculation. On the AvidoAv ami fatherless they specu late. " He urges an open-air meeting in the the Domain _ for Friday at three o'clock. " Consumer" writes, commending Mi d-nob for coming forward straightforwardly to defend himself, but remarks that neither he nor tiny baker had attempted to slicav in a plain way " what constitutes the rise of a penny on tho loaf." These letters Avere received prior to the closing of the corres pondence, and have, therefore, a claim to

insertion

SUNDAY BEER.

(To the Editor of the Star.) Sir,—Having read in Friday night's issue of your valuable paper an account of the Licensed Victuallers meeting, also your leading article on the same, permit me to diner with you in regard to Sunday-closing. In most cities I have been in the public houses are open for tAvo hours on Sunday viz., from one until tAvo, and from eight until nine in the evening. I also noticed inplaces where the-above rules are observed there are less publicans summoned for a breach of the luavs. The Suiiday-closiu* law seems to me like many other IaAVS° made for the benefit of the upper ten, not the theAvorking man. Why should not the hard working man enjoy the luxury of a o-l as . s of beer to his Sunday's dinner, as Avefl as the nobs ? The latter has only to order the butler to bring up a bottle" of Bass's or \\ hitson s from the cellar, Avhile the former is liable to arrest if caught Avith a pint of beer in Ins hand. You will perhaps say. why not get his beer in on Saturday __<___"'» Simply because it Avould be flat by Sunday Colonial draught beer will not keep even if bottled up tight, I have often tried it and have ahvays found it go flat. I trust some ot our members Avill consider these %.cts and endeavour to get the present laws altered ; by doing so they will confer a boon on tbe majority of bone and smeAv otthe country.—-I am, etc TH W not a publican. " *'

[Wherever Sunday sale is legalised con victions against publicans for "breaches of the IaAV during prohibited hours ar. as our correspondent has accurately observed very tew, and for the best of reasons-it is impos sible to stop the sale throughout the day There is a good deal of bunkum about the cry of the working man and tho "upper t<m" We should like to discover that favoured class who are supposed to " order the butler to bring up bottles from the cellar " _ goodly number of the "upper ten" manage

is.« that no one has yet made an out-crv against being forced to eat stale bread I raised his A-oice upon the evils of exnosin. his meat in summer to all the risks * iyor.up._o_ and blow flics.—-Ed ESi

. PRINCES-STREET.

1. 3i,0 JMitor, Sir.—There is a snot in .„• street, the anathemas expended on which if n,. 8 could aflfect.she owner, pn r K at_r7 would \Z comparatively a pleasure to him. if all the^h! ot wayfarers were carried out. I believe w»_2 the aspnalC side walk vns lirst laid, by ««£_ technicality be could not be compelled to do ht= portion, and be simply allowed bis nei'diboiY,. to do theirs, and left a monument ol! hi. tnThiio spirit for the admiration of new arrivals ... bis felloAv citizens But what is Mav&r Hii4* about ? lam told, the Act is now so construct?, that, the owner can be made to do it. On Sunday night. several of the congregations, from both Sr Paul's and St. AndreAv's, bad to Avade through the mud there, or iostle ladies od" the narrow strip of asphalt. The result was, they arrived at their homes in a pleasant mood. Avith E_uddv boots, Avet feet, and blessings on the Council - Yurs, &c, Asphalt.

THE CHORAL HALL.—CHILPERIC.

The performance of Herve's opera bonffe Chilperic, by amateurs,would be considered an ambitious undertaking in any com munity, and that Auckland lias a musical society Avliose members have proved them selves equal to accomplishing such a task to say the least, creditably, is a sign that the gentle art which, according to the poet soothes the savage breast lias made great progress amongst our citizens, ay ho ought, on that account, to be the most tranquil set of persons iv the colony. The performance of hist night may take rank AA-ith any achievement hitherto attempted by the Choral Society, and were it not that the concluding act Avas spoilt by two or three of the performers having neglected to master their libretto,avc should iinhesitatinglygiv_ it first place. The object of the entertain ment Avas to obtain funds for finishing the exterior of the hall, and as the hall Avas ciOAvded before the piece began, Aye may conclude the financial result avus satisfactory None but those who have tried it know what it is to train a company of amateurs to play an ordinary farce or comedy ; avc can imagine lioav much more difficult it is to teach them an operetta, Avhich is in some respects more difficult than opera. It is therefore right that ;i tribute of praise should be lirst given to Mr Fenton for his painstaking efforts, both ;is .stage-manager, and leader of the orchestra. The result last night reflected great credit upon his capabilities in both provinces, and it is noticeable that the faults of the performance, and there Avere several, Avere mainly sueli as it was not in Iris poAver to rectify. That impoi .antauxiliary, the orchestra, acquitted themselves gallantly. The overture, if it may be so called, before ihe second act, was the bssi bit of their work, and brought out rounds of applause. The dresses Avere new and brilliant, and if it Avere said that a scarlet silk doublet and _ose is scarcely a dress even for a king's bootblack, it may be ansAvcred that it is quite in accordance with the spirit of operetta. Tiie scenery, if not splendid, avus at least made the most of, and there was considerable taste evinced in tbe arrangement of the various tableaux, especially in the rain scene and the toilette scene. In the bitter, several youngsters Avho had been pressed into the service acted and sang with good effect. There Avas a general tendency to give the "points" and puns with too little emphasis, but this is invariably so with amateurs, who never Avill appreciate the importance of every word in these being perfectly audible. The title role was well played by Mr G. A. Tole, whose acting avus Aery promising, and his singing better studied than hisdialogue. His best effort AA-as the song "A Butterfly liv'd," which with the accompanying chorus was productive of loud applause. Miss Vaughan bad ample opportunity for the display of her .veil known histrionic and vocal powers as Fredegonda, and she fully realised public expectation. She sang the opening song " No more country for me" very piquautly, and by way of illustrating the lady's versati lity we may mention that in the famous " Lament " she outshone all her vivacious efforts, and created a furore of applause. Mr G. Harker played Siegbert, the hen pecked husband, AA'ith talent, and apprecia tive humour ; his personification was very ; even—a rare merit, which deserves mention where it is observed. Brunehaul, his wife, i was played by Mrs Mitchell, avlio, it is needless to say, accomplished the music in finished style, and also acted a part scarcely suited to her A\-ith plenty of vigour. In the quartette, " o,Fredegonda Fairest," her mellow voice Avas heard to great advantage. Miss Leaf first appeared, as a shepherdess, in the Chorus of Peasants, and after- AA-ards came on as Gals win da, the Spanish Princess. She was in splendid A-oice, and her singing in the duett " Would you prove," Avas as fine as anything of the evening. En passant, Aye should notice that Mr Tole in this sang Avith great care, but his voice was too light to mingle Avith sufficient contrast. Mr Austin's Don Nervoso was Avell concei\ red and carried through. The comic scene between him and Dr Senna (Mr Stoddart) provoked roars of laughter. Of the last named gentleman it may be said he thoroughly appreciated the character, but wanted another day for perfecting himself in the libretto. Mr Harding achieved a decided success as Fatout, the Chamber lain. His part all through bore the impress of great pains, and his acting in the old man's love-making and in the mad scene, was really excellent. His rich A-oice came out well in the recitative " The Princess is' at hand." Mr E. Harker as Landry performed a difficult part with great, credit to himself. His singing and acting were both good, and he was " Avell up" in addition. The part of Divitiacus, the Arch Druid, was undertaken by Mr Brett, aa-lio was in good voice, and sang the difficult opening recitative with well sustained correctness and power. _ His imitation of Mr Walker, the spiritist, later on, was a decided " hit," and caused roars of laughter. Wc ought not to pass over the duett between Fredegonda and Chilperic, '"Canst Thou Recall." This was a gem, and brought out the ovation it deserved. We are informed that OAving to about 200 persons being unable to get in last night, it has been resolved to present the piece again on Thursday evening next, when we are sure the reputation gained by the per formers last night Ayill secure them another great '• ' house."

GEORGIA MINSTRELS.

These original darkies re-appeared last cA-ening at the Theatre Royal before a respectable house, and Avere again greeted Avith welcome cheers. The programme was almost, new, and sonic or tbe melodies Avere of a higher class. The lust part consisted of illustrative songs, introduced by an Ofrenbachian overture, which was well performed, including the popular refrain ot the " March through Georgia," and the Avell-known " Dixey's Land," which moved the feet ana risible faculties of the audience almost to an alarming extent, akin to the march of a southern army. Some of the ballads were of tbe liveliest description, such as "My Gal," "Hildebrand Montrose," and "Early in the Morning. AJ l _ Hicks gave the noAv 'famous plantation dittj " There's Avhere I'd like to be," associated AVitn a music of his OAvn. The selections hy^tne orchestra Avere pleasing. "Mollie Green, oy Mr Bowman, and '• See that my Grave's kept Green," by Mr Hicks, were received Avithaudioie satisfaction The latter Avas sung by request The sonar "Out of Work," by Mr Matlock, pos sesses human interest for those who have P5 sf?„ the ordeal, and understood the language of me Scottish poet, in -'Man AA-as made to M°]irn "Houseless and Homeless," by Hosea, hut not the. pronhet was marked by brevity andpleasan' nes*. Tbe kitchen sketch, in imagination n» gran*; Avith the odours of roast beef and ottiC' fare, acted upon the constitution as a Pr"" I', ■rather than as a dinner, but, the centre of attrac tion Avas the belle and not the beef. ,Ain4 snfe," Avas a suggestive question by the n&Vi-i four. A series of noticeable specialities a,"" eccentricities folloAvod. Judge Crusoe aPP®a"„ as an orator, and delivered his sentiments o» the spirits. " Men of Mask " brought down -V» curtain, and this evening it will rise ff^.tne I;' b," time in Auckland before the Georgia Minst-eio.

THE EVENING STAR, TUESDAY, MAY 15, 1877.



"VT OTICE O F REMO VA L. H. "T TKIXS BEGS TO ANNOUNCE THAT HE OT H A S REMOVED!!"®* TO TH Premises Next Door Below his Old Shop. PL A T X I N S Begs to heartily thank his numerous Cus tomers for their A-ery liberal patronage from his first commencing business up to ihe present time, and to assure them that although bis trade has increased to that extent, that his REMOVAL to more Commodious Premises Avas 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. Kis Ncav Shop shall always be knoAvn as The Cheapest in Auckland. H.A. Avill be happy to see all his old Customers, and as many neAv 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! R. A T X I N R /CONTINUATION OF CLEARING \j OUT SALE. JOHN W P E A R S E (Leaving cor England). The Stock must be sold at Frightfully Reduced Pri.es, to raali=e quickly, consisting oi a A-ery Larare Stock of Men's and Boys' Clothing, Ulster Coat-, Waterproof Coats, Inverness Capes, Overcoats, French Felt Hat 3, Cloth Caps. A large quantity of Ladies' Very Fashionable Costumes,"Jackets. Shawls, and Felt Skirts, just received from London. Blankets. Flanne., Tweeds. Hosiery. Gloves, v Si;., Fe.i thers, Flowers, and Straw Goods. Every Department is Marked Down, so as to clear out. The Lease of the Premises for Sale. Special notice, autumn & winter goods, B .NXOCKBURN AND MOSGIEL TWEEDS H. L. POSSENNISKIE Opening Out these New Seasonable Goods, would call particular attention to their Quality, which is second to none imported, Avhile from his large an<i varied Stock Gentlemen can rely on a choice of Cloth unattainable else- Avhere in the colony. H. L. POSSENNISKIE. MERCHANT TAILOR & HABITMAKER, Opposite the City Mart, Shortland-street. 11/TUTLTAL LIFE ASSOCIATION OF i_/__- AUSTRALASIA. Incorporated by Act of Parliament. NEW ZEALAND BRANCH: Head Office, Auckland- Local Director: George Bukgoyne Owen, Esq. (Messrs. Owen and Graham.) Principal Medical Officer • Charles Field Goldsbro', Esq., M.D. General Agent for Ncav Zealand : William T. J. Bell. With Sub-Agencies in all tbe Principal ToAv-ns. Every in formation on tho subject of LTFE ASSURANCE ANNUITIES, and ENDOW MENTS FOR CHILDREN, afforded by J. A. Lowe, TraA-elling Agent to the Association ; or WILLIAM T. J. BELL, General Agent. __, Special Features.— Age admitted on Policies, which are unchallangable from date of issu*. Lowest Rates of Premiums, and xo hamper ing conditions as to residence or occupation.



TO* O T I C E. MACINTOSH COATS, WATERPROOF CLOTHING. RUSHBROOK AND BRIDGMAN Have Just Opened, and are now Showing, a Large Parcel of the abOA-o Goods, from the same House, and of similar style, to their Last Season's Goods, concerning the Wear and Quality of Avhich th<?y have recei\-cd many satisfactory testimonials. The Parcel includes A'arious Styles, and all sizes. ji, fLight Textures, in Black and Drab, for o toAvn wear. O . Strong HeaA-y Sheeting. * & \ Strong Twilled, Velvet Collars, gj 2 I Cashmere. Fancy Cheek, and Diagonal S q 1 Tweed Patterns. _j |y I Extra TleaA-y Diagonal Warm Lined, I. and extra long. > i Sealskin Lined, specially adapted for "" (. Cabmen, 'Buss Drivers, &c. WATERPROOF APRONS. LEGGINGS, &c. Also, A FURTHER SUPPLY OF BLANKETS, REVERSIBLE BUSH RUGS, AND lANCT AUSTRIAN RUG S, To Haxd this Week. _s. in the & allowed on all Cash Purchases of 203. and upAvards. rushbrook se bridgman, Junction Drapery Warehouse, Upper Queex-street, auclkaxd. J7IURNITURJ2 ! FURNITURE! Ladies and Oentenien about to F'irnUh are respec fully requested, to inspect the Large Stack of DU A WING -ROOM, DINING -ROOM BEDROOM, AND GENERAL HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE,



I -hi AVII.T. ALL _ IN_ GOODS TO SUIT TIIKM AT THE QITY JJALL ARCADE. HOLLO WAY & GARLICK'S DRESS DEPARTMENT is replete Avith the Newest, Seasonable Goods. Danmsse Cloths, "I As worn in Pans. Matelassc do. > ——. Satin Trails, J New Designs and Colours. Plain and Fancy Satin Cloths, Broche Lustrines, and Fancy Diagonals. French Merinoes, and Homespun Tweeds. WINCEYS, immense variety, for town and country Avear. OUR SHOW ROOMS (lGfi feet long) contain tho greatest A-ariety of DRAPERY, CLOTHING, & FURNISHING GOODS IN AUCKLAND. Blankets, from 10s. to 455. per pair Flannels, Avhite, coloured and fancy Ladies" Winter Skirts in great variety Shirtings, ail Wool, Crimean,and Union. MEN'S & BOYS' CLOTHING. Our Stock is constantly being ReneAved with Clothes especially made for Country as well as Town Wear. Our Moleskin and Working Men's Trousers are VEIIY LOAV PKICED. Ladies, Purchase your Millinery at the Arcade. Large Stock Beady Trimmed Hats & Bonnets Milliners on the Premises, to execute orders Avith dispatch. THE ONLY ESTABLISHMENT onductedon the English system of combining Drapery, Clothing, Millinery, Underclothing, Carpets, and House Furnishing. QUEEN-STREET & LORNE-STREET. HO LLOWAY & GARLIC X, QUIT AB L E pi OO D S FOR THE SEASON. NOVEL T I E S. THE NEW MACINTOSH and TWEED CHESTERFIELD OVERCOAT. Also, THE PATENT AUTOMATON SILK UMBRELLA, In Gentlemen's size. A Large Stock op MACINTOSHES. FIRST AND SECOND-CLASS WATER PROOF OVERCOATS. The formerare guaranteed to give satisfaction and will be found superior to any other Goods in the market. W. RATTRAY, DRAPER, HOSIER, & SILK MER _ER, NE W Z_AL A_. D HO U S X, GO, QUEEN-STREET. A TTCKLAN'D Puke and Healthy Blood, Clear hicin AAy Good Complexion obtained by using Sharland's Concentrated Sarsaparilla. Price, 3s. 0-: l. and is. Gd. a bottle. SilAltLAND's Podo phyllin (Pearl) Pills, for Bllliousness. Constipa tion, and Liver. Price. Is. and 2s. Gd. a box.— ftST Apothecaries Hall, opposite Post-o.liee, Auckland. Shun as you Avould prussic acid the detestable shams AAiiich their vendors proclaim as identical with, similar to, or as good as Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps. They are all worse than worthless. Very frequently they are sold in bottles which previsusly contained, the genuine article, Avhich is as agreeable and remedial as they are nauseous and hurtful.