SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

TTT/-TT wAT"T"o t This Afternoon, 6.12 HIGH \\ Al Alt-- To . molTOW Morning, 7.0 SUN SET.—This Evening. 6.18. StJN HIS!'. —To-morrow Morning, G. 3 MOON'S AGE.—New Moon, 15th, 2.33 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Durham, c- s. from Russell. Jane I) >uglas, s.s., from Sisborne. Rowena, s.s.. Scliars, from Tauranga.

DEPARTURES.

Hertha, German frigate, Captain Knorr, for Europe, via Sydney, and the Cape of Good Hope. City of New York, P.M. Co.'s s.s., Cavarlyfor San Francisco, via Kandavu and Honolulu (English mail). Mary Anderson, schooner, for Noumea and tho Islands- Taranaki. s.s.. for the Pouth. Miss Kilmanscgg, brig, for Kaipara. EXPORTS. I'cr Wanaka, for the, South :—For Wellington —3 bales leather, 11 sides solo leather, 1 packagO trriudorv. For Christchurch—3 packages sad dlery, 5 bales leather, 100 sides lap, 80 sides sole. —Tro.land Bros. 2 tanks malt, Owen and Graham. P«rCity of New York, for San Francisco:— 101 hales wool, 3 cases playing cards, Owen and Graham.

The Rchooner Mary, Anderson after two or three days delay beyond her Kittling date got away this morning with a fair wind.

Tlie s.s. Jane Douglas, which was expected from Gisborno yesterday, had not arrived up to the time tho mail left. Mr J. K. Emmet and family and several gentlemen of his froune who had taken passages by tho City of New York, will find themselves booked for a further stay o." some weeks in Auckland when they arrrive

The brigantine Louise arrived at Newcastle from this port, on the 6th inst., and the brig Transport on the; ith inst.

The barque Santiago having cleared at the Customs for Conception Bay is to sail to-morrow in ballast.

The barque Stag was loading at Newcastle for this port on tho 3rd inst. The Queen of the "West was on the berth in London loading for Auckland when the mail left.

The. brier Miss Kilmansegg left last evening for ivaiparain ballast. The schooner Saxon, lieiieo, arrived at Nou mea on the 20th ult., and the schooner Minne haha on the 23rd.

The mail steamer City of New York got away last night at 10 o'clock. She took nearly 200 passengers all told, a number which we believe is in excess of that taken by any other ono steamer.

The s.s. Taranaki sailed for the South to-day. Passengers: Mesdames Wright, Spillor, Schmidt, King, Cameron, Keeley, Smyth. Martin, Misses Cameron. Green. Wyllie, Rev. D. Bruce, Messrs Wright. Owen. Blake, Downes, Matheson, Gil mour, Cheal, Bayley, Lynch. Spiller. Schmidt, Lake. Rose, Keeley, Smyth, Dervillie, Mill, 5 natives, and 4 steerage.—Henderson and Mac farlanc, agents. The brig Transport arrived at Newcastle from Auckland on the 4th inst.

COMMERCIAL.

Messrs'Cochrane aud Son's large sale of works of general literature, was well attended to-day, and the majority ot 1 tlie books fetched fair prices. The splendid edition of Dore's illustrated, bible brought £1 10s a volume. The entertainment last evening at Newmarket under the auspices of the Victoria Lodge of Good Templars, was largely attended. Mr Jenkins p esided and Mr Butchkow conducted the musical department.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Usdbr :— For Thames?, this day, at 5.30 p.m., and to morrow, rX 1.30 p.m. anrl 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, per Argyle, to-morrow, at 2.30 p.m. For Waiheke, per Socy, to-morrow, at 0 a.m. For Whitianga. Tauranga, and Opotiki, per ' Rowena, to-morrow, at 4 p.m. FoC,Waiwera, Mahuransi. Matakana, Manga wai, Waipu, Mangapai, and Wangarei, per Annie Milbank, on Saturday next,'at 10 a.m. NOTB. —A letter receiving box: has been erected at Air Hatswell's store. Princes-street, and is cleared at 8.15 a.m., and 3.15 p.m. S. B. DISS, Chief Postmaster.

DEATH.

HEATH.—-On the 15th March, at his parents' residence, Union-street, James, the youngest son of Michael Heath, aged 15 months. The funeral will take place at 2.30 p.m, to morrow. Friends will please accept this in vitation. _ . . , SMITH.—On the 15th March, at the Provincial Hospital, Auckland, Edward M. Smith, aged 42 years. , The funeral will leave the Hospital at 3 p.m. to-morrow. Friends are respectfully invited to attend.

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

THURSDAY. MARCH 15, 1877

w' For the cause th.it lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future in tlie distance, And tlie jioud that we can do.

A question of very great interest was brought under tlie notice of the Board of Education at its last meeting. A number of clergymen and gentlemen pressed on the notice of the Board the subject of religious instruction in our common schools after tlie regular hours. It appears that an organiza tion has been formed with tlie object of imparting voluntarily religious teaching, but the workers have been met at the very outset by a difficulty. If the children are dismissed by the teacher, and a special class has to be reassembled in the building, there is no chance whatever of carrying out the proposed object. It is self-evident that children just liberated from school could not be gathered together again for the purpose of engaging in the study of sacred tilings ; ami it is equally certain that the suggestion made at tlie Board and sub mitted by resolution to tlie applicants, in favour of commencing before school hours, is likewise practically impossible. The difficulty of compelling children to attend to their ordinary school duties, must convince everyone practically acquainted with tuition, that it is impossible to create sufficient interest in the vital matter of Bible instruction to secure the attendance of any large number of children half-an-hour before tho present school-time, The whole success of the \

the question of dismissal submitted to the Board. In the brief discussion that ensued upon the letter, some of the members appeared to be unduly fearful of infringing the secular principle of the Act. The whole thing seems to be in a nutshell. Does the Act recognise religious instruction after school-hours or not? Unquestionably it does. Beyond all doubt tho provision relating to voluntary religious teaching after ordinary fixed school-hours was intended as a concession to the desire of an important class of the community who earnestly believe in the necessity for Bible reading" as a part of juvenile instruction. We most conclude, then, that under proper restrictions the legislature intended that the provision should be workable, leaving it to those charged with the administration of the purely secular department under taken by the Government to prevent the one from running into the other. To dismiss the children would render the concession nugatory, while we contend the Board are bound to recognise it as operative. If the teacher simply intimated at the ordinary time for closing, that only those whose parents desired them to receive religious instruc tion should, remain, the very widest inter pretation will have been placed on the strictly secular character of the (iovcinmcut system. This is the course we would strongly urge on the Board.

SOME surprise, not to say consternation, has boen excised in legal circles, and among tho ranks of those who have lately had occasion to seek the protection of the Bankruptcy Act, by a decision-given by Judge Gillies in the Supreme Court yester day in the ease of William Lloyd, a bank rupt. In the case under notice till the stages bad been passed through, and Mi- George, solicitor, applied to the court for :i certificate of discharge. Rut His Honor, as reported in our issue of last evening, refused the application, on the ground that no creditors had been pre sent, in person at the various meetings, Mr Thos. Macfarlaue, the Chairman and trustee, merely holding five proxies. As there appeal's to lie some misapprehension as to the grounds of the decision, we may explain that the" proceedings tire under tlie "Debtors and Creditors Act, 187b'," which came into operation on the Ist November last. Under the previous Act of 1875, tlie creditors, pro sent in person or by proxy, had power to grant the final discharge of the bankrupt, without any application to the Court. Rut the new Act renders a different course necessary. Clause 179 provides that tlie creditors, " present or represented thereat," may grant a certificate of dis charge, which must be signed by the chair man. Clause ISO provides that the certificate must be filed in the Supreme Court by the trustee ; and clause 181, that the debtor must next give ten days notice of his intention to apply to the Court for his final discharge, and that the notice of hearing must be sot clown three clear days before the sitting of the Court; and sub sequent clauses provide that the judge -may ileal with tho bankrupt. The whole question hinges upon the legal interpreta tion of the words " meeting of credi tors," which, by a recent derision of a superior Court in England are held to mean more than one person. Tlie question now raised is, whether or not discharges granted by means of proxies under the Act of 1875 ate invalidated, by the same definition applying to the word "meeting" where used in that statute. If so, it will necessitate a large number of fresh whitewashings.

THE MOANATAIRI MINE.

Two or three references have been made in the telegrams of our Grahamstown mining correspondent to some difficulty in obtain ing information about the amount of speci mens taken out, and other information re lating to the Moanatairi mine. We have made careful inquiry into the facts, and from what we learn we are

satisfied that the directors have done their utmost to keep shareholders well posted up in the affairs of the Company, without creating any lictitious excitement. It is a noteworthy fact, and may generally be accepted as a sign of reviving prosperity in a Company's affairs, that when the pros pects improve and there is a probability of obtaining good dividends, shareholders become extremely critical of the manage ment. When luck is down it is hard to get a quorum at a meeting to aid the directors in carrying on the operations of the mine. Tlie Moanatairi directors only kept work going for years by undertaking heavy personal responsibilities, and the share holders are indebted to . their per severance and confidence in the Com pany's property for the present favour able issue. Mr Bleazard informs us that after every breaking-down, a tele gram announcing the result will be des patched to the Company's office, Auckland, for the benefit of all shareholders, and to keep the market well informed. This arrangement will, no doubt, give general satisfaction.

We learn that Mr G. Han'ney has resigned the appointment of mine-manager of the Union Beach, in order to pay a visit to Australia.

A very interesting vocal and musical entertainment will be held to-morrow (Friday) evening, in tbe Catholic Institute, Wellington-street, ending with a quadrille party. The performances will be under tlie management of Mr Sceats, and members of the Variety Troupe. Misses McEvoy and Hill, anil Messrs Mettam, Smart, PlOwman, Phillips, Hoggard, and Coleman will take part, in the "vocal and dramatic departments.

A cricket match between the members of the Auckland Cricket Club and the West End Club will be held on Saturday after noon, in the Domain cricket ground. Mr 1). B. Craickshank, the Chilian Con sul, and Mr 11. I. Barber, the American Consular agent, this morning paid a visit to the German man-of-war Augusta. The usual Consular salute was fired on the gentlemen leaving the ship.

Jem Mace has entered into an engage ment with Mr F. Hiscocks, of Sydney, to appear in his Statuesque Illustrations, in which he represents heroes of antiquity, real and mythical.

The Wangiiuui Hurdle Race was Avon by Wairarapa, Gazelle 2nd, and Stadham 3rd. The Handicap Race avus avoh by Resolu tion, OpaAva 2nd, and Elsa 3rd. In the former event Perfume fell tAvice.

The NeAvmarket Hall Avas again well filled last night, tlie attraction being a public entertainment under the auspices of the Victoria Lodge, 1.0.G.1. A very interesting and amusing, as avcll as in structive programme was gone through. Brother Jenkins in the chair; Professor Butschkow presided at the piano. Tavo line specimens of England's navy sailors favoured the audience with songs and a hornpipe, Avhieh Avere received with pro longed applause. Tlie whole of the per formances were avcll executed, and the meeting Avas in every way a decided success. The Victoria Lodge, 1.0.& T., is steadily progressing, the number of members is fast increasing, and the preliminary steps towards forming a library have been taken. Tlie book'Oase m nearly finished, ami funds are in hand to fill it with suitable WQfJss ffl gooH ffl it comPtetedtL

An interesting account of the celebrated old Irish game " Hurling," to be played in Domain on St.""Patricks' Day, appears on the fourth page to-day.

The staff" surgeon of H.M.S. Pearl haying made a report on poisoned arrows in which he suggests that tetanus is largely produced by fear that it will take place, Mr. T. b. Whitehead, formerly of Auckland, has written in opposition to the theory, and gives instances in support of his view. Mr. Whitehead was formerly chief-officer of the Southern Cross Missionary schooner, and in his numerous cruises among the South Sea Islands had many opportunities' of judging of the effects of wounds inflicted oy poisoned weapons.

The Ponsonby Baptist church and Sun day-school anniversary meeting was held last evening. Nearly a hundred sat down to tea, which was gracefully placed before the visitors by Mesdames Owen, Dewar, Dunnett, Jones, James, Holloway, Gaze, Edwards, BigeloAV, and Brown. Rev. T. G. Hinton presided at the meeting, and Mr Brown, secretary, read a gratifying re port showing that SO scholarsiwerc on the roll, and 11 teachers, -the average-attendance being 48. They had a new harmonium, and the school room had been lined and made comfortable, yet, they still had wants, in the shape of a fence round the building, and books for the juvenile library. The treasurer reported that the receipts for the past year were £20 16s sd, which had all been expended, so that there was no balance in baud. Interesting addresses were delivered in turn by Mr Ewington on, " Mutual Sympathy," Mr Brown on the " Want of Funds," Mr Battley, on " Con centration of thought and faith in perse vering labour," and Mr Brame on the " Importance of Sunday school work." The speeches were of an instructive charac ter, interspersed with selections of music aud hymns by the choir.

It may not "be generally known that H.I.M. Augusta was built in France for the American Government during the war. The Krupp gnus throw a shot of loOlbs.

M;s.i Alice May has been well received at the Opera Comiq'tio in the Grand Duchess. She is now playing at the Park Theatre.

The Georgia Minstrels were still perfor ming in Sydney on the departure of the mail steamer.

Thc*King of Dahomey shows some signs of giving way.

The following aro the Sydney men in the combined eleven of Australia, to play the All England Eleven :—D. and F. Gregory, Spoftorth, Garrett, N. Thompson, and C. Bannerman. Evans was requested to pro cecd'to Melbourne, but in view of another All England match in Sydney he declined. Victoria will be represented by Allan, Cooper, Horan, Kelly, Midwinter, and Blaekham.

NEW BANK PREMISES.

We learn that another eyesore will shortly disappear from Queen-street. The Bank of New South Wales concluded to-day the purchase of a site, next Fisher and Co., butchers, forty feet frontage, for the sum of El2O ti foot. 'The property belonged to tin late Win. BtLckli'.iid. They propose to erect a handsome banking house to accommoda tion their increasing business. Possibly the reported relations established between the New Zealand Government and this wealthy Corporation for a loan of half-a-inillion, may have influenced the Australian directors in their effort to give their branches suitable offices in this colony. The popularity of Mr Ivey, the present manager, has done much to advance the business of the bank in Auckland, and the clients of the bank will doubtless unite in con gratulating him upon a happy trans fer from the Shortland-street offices, to the palatial building which is in contempla tion. Other citizens have also their special reasons for congratulation at the improve ment in street architecture. Tims, one by one, such relies of juvenile Auckland as have been left by the periodical fires, are disappearing through the steady and healthy growth of city business demanding better

things.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before Dr. Home and Allen O'Neill, Escjs.,

Justices.) OUT ON BAIL

Arthur Hunter, admitted to bail on a charge of drunkenness, did not appear, and his bail was forfeited.

MAD DRUNK

Richard Bowdon appeared to answer a charge of being mad drunk on the 13thinst. He was also charged with committing violent assaults on Mr Francis H. Burslcin, and Mr and Mrs Featon.

Prisoner pleaded guilty to all four charges, and was fined 20s and costs for tho drunken ness, 40s and costs for the assaults on the two men, and received seven days for the assault on the woman.

Tho Licensing Act —A Ssvsre

Decision.

William Moyle, landlord of the Wharf Hotel, appeared in answer to a summons charging him with supplying _ alcoholic liquors to be drunk on his premises on Sun day the 11th inst.

Defendant said the drink was supplied on the representations of the men that they were travellers.

This was construed into a plea of not guilty. Charles Hill, hushman, deposed hi; resided at Port Charles. Lust Saturday night he was out at Onehunga, and came into town on Sunday morning. He went into Moyles' Hotel on Sunday evening between 8 and 9, with a man named Gleish. They went in to get ji drink, and they had one nobbier of whiskey and one of gin. They drank the liquor and he paid Is for it. They were served by Mrs Dempsey. Mr Moyle was there. He did not say he was a traveller, nor did Mr Moyle ask him the question. They went back half an hour later, and had another drink. They said nothing about being travellers on that occasion. To Mr Moyle : I'll swear you never asked me if I was a, traveller. You knew very well I wasn't a traveller. I have been dozens of times in your house before playing yankee grab. Mrs Dempsey was sworn and told a very different story.' According to her statement the witness Hill came in on Sunday night and wanted a quart of beer in a jug. She refused to give it him, as Mr Moyle had given strict orders that she was only to supply lodgers with beer on Sundays. Mr Moyle was not there at the time. Soon afterwards Hill came back with a companion, and was shaking the wet off a great-coat he had on. Mr Moyle saw him, and said, " You're pretty Avet, my man." Hill replied, " I should think I was ; I've been out bunting up a cow aud calf at Onehunga all day. We've missed the train, and bad to wall: in. " For heaven's sake give us a glass of grog." Mr Moyle told her to serve them with some brandy, and she did so. She charged them one shilling, on which they wanted a sixpence out, and on her refusing to give it them they grumbled, and Hill told Mr Moyle he would make it the dearest sixpence he'd ever saved. Mr Moyle was then sworn, and gave testimony corroborative of his sister-in law's. This '.van the case. Tiie Bvur-h retired for a few minutes, and on coming iulo Court found the case proved against the prisoner, and fined him. £20, including cost?. Defe:;:!ft!it intimated his indention to appeal. .lames Patterson, landlord of the Fitaroy Hotel, was similarly charged, but at the request of (iefendant the ease was adjourned till Saturday. '■ Tins wan fsl tkq business .

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE'S COURT

THIS DAY.

(Before R. C. Barstow Esq., R.M.) JUDGMENTS FOR PLAINTIFFS.

James Wiseman v. James E. Day.—Mr Thorite for plaintiff. Claim, £11, goods. Defendant resided at Taranaki, ami had sent the.amount of claim, but not the costs. His Worship said he could only order the defendant to pay 12s, the mere' cost of the summons, as it would appear that defendant had sent tho money before receiving the summons.-^-Howin and Brother v. William Given ; claim, £5 12s 9d, goods; costs, £1 4s. Defendant said he was a poor man, and could not 'pay. His Worship said the bill spoke of jams and other luxuries which poor men without the means of paying should do without. 5s a week.—W. S. Jones v. Alexander Cromwell; claim, £4. 8s Gd, goods; costs, 19s.—James Tait v. Geo. 11. Clark; claim, £4 2s 4d (Mr Hesketh for plaintiff) ; costs, £1 4s (id.— Messrs Seccombe and Son v. W. A. Clarke; claim, £19 7s, goods (Mr Hesketh for plaintiff"). George Gallagher proved. Costs, £2 ss.—Hollo way and Garlick v. Matthew Mooney; claim, £80sld, goods. Defendant said ho was away at Poverty Bay at the time the debt was contracted by Mrs Mooney, who went in heavy in his absence. He would willingly pay it by half-crown instalments : He had other debts to pay. 2s lid per week for 24 Aveeks, and 5s per week after ; costs, £1 9s. —Mayor of Auck land v. James Diggings, claim £6 ss, city rates (Mr J. B. Russell for plaintiff) ; costs, £1 19s; £1 per week.—Union Bank of Australia v. P. McTavish, claim £27 9s lid, promissory notes. .

JUDO! M KNT SUMMONSKS,

James E. Gilbert v. John C. Wood, claim £5 4s, costs ss, ordered to be paid by weekly instalments as agreed upon, or failing to be committed for thirty days. — William MeGechnie v. James Harbour. Claim, £10 15s (Mr Tyler for plaintiff.) Defendant did not appear. Mr Tyler said defendant was a boat-builder, and employed several men, and he would ask that an order be made for immediate payment, or in default, the usual consequence. The Court ordered a payment of £5 by the 31st instant, and the balance on the 14th April with costs, or be committed for six weeks.

ADJOURNMENTS,

Ryan and Rcll v. 11. Bedell; F. G. SonieiTiclri v. G. F. Hill; M. Somerville v. J. Trimmer ; T. Hungerford v. George Cousins; Hewin and Brother v. R. Chal mers; J. Abbott, v. J. R. Patrick; S. E. Hughes v. W. Brighton ; G. Lcmdrum v. C. C. Rooks ;' Sutton v. Hewin ; G. Lendrum v. R. Peacock; E. R. Gibson v. Morton and Chambers ; Braithwaite v. D. Pollen, Highway Rate.

Evans v. Standard Insurance Company. Mr Tyler for plaintiff and Mr Hesketh for defendant. This was a claim of £42 by Mr Evans, for bis services as Valuator of photo graphic goods at tlie residence of Mr .1. MeGnrrigle at the North Shore,- at tlie time of the Queen-street lire. The several witnesses for plaint ill' were heard hist week, to the effect that .Mi- Kv.-uis was employed to value tin- goods with Mr Hartley by con sent, of Mr- Gilfillan, tlie Company's representative in Auckland, tite particulars of which appeared in the Stak: Mr Tyler asked that the witnesses might be ordered to leave the Court. Mr Hesketh could not see the necessity for this, a* tlie evidence for plaintiff was already before tbe Court. His Worship said it was essential that wit nesses should leave the Court according to precedent, which lie was bound by, and he must make the order.—Mr. Gilfilhui, agent for the Standard Insurance Company, said he never engaged Mr. Evans to value the goods at Mr. MeGurrigle's house at the North Shore. He engaged Messrs. Hartley and Memos on the 3rd October, when they went over. He had known Mr. Evans in connection with the oflice of Beveridge and Alexander for some time. Mr. McGarrigle spoke to him in the morning, and said that he Wits informed that he and Mr. Saunders wished to have tho stock taken, and subse quently objected to Mr. Hemus its valuer. McGarrigle (.-ailed later in the day, and was very angry about Mr. Hemus going over. Seeing that McGarrigle was extremely angry, he said, " Wait a little while and I will write a letter and withdraw Hemus. He did so, and gave it, to McGarrigle ; but before doing so, his clerk copied the letter. Nothing hud been said by McGarrigle up to this time about employing Mr Evans at the North Shore, nor had he tlie pleasure of shaking Mr Evan's hand. When lie gave McGarrigle the letter, lie said: "1 am taking Mr Evans over with me." Mr Evans had previously been waiting at the door. He consented to withdraw Mr Hemus, but did not intend that any one else should take his place. lie never suggested that Mr Evans should lie employed ; he was Mr McGarrigle's man all through; he got the claim from Mr Hartley ; lie got an account from Mr Evans for £84, which, through Mi- Richmond, lie declined to pity, as he never engaged Mr Evans. The Court ad journed shortly after one o'clock.

CABLEGRAMS.

[press agb-ncy.]

Australian.

Supplies Bsf _ss_ to tne Govern ment-

A Dissolution Expected.

SYDNEY, March 15th.

The House refused supply to the Govern ment by a majority of six. The debate lasted till 2.30 o'clock this morning. A dissolution is expected nevertheless. Allen declined to play in the All England cricket match.

VOLUNTEER INTELLIGENCE.

The Naval and Artillery companies of Volunteers were inspected last evening in the Drill shed, the Navals under command of Captain Leiloy, and tlie Artillery under Captain Burns. Both companies Avere duly exercised by Major Lusk, and subsequently they formed into battalion, and listened to an explanation of the use of the cohorn, hand-grenades, and other materials of war from Sergeant Hyde. The Artillery Com pany also took ti lesson in the big gun exercise. The whole of the exercises were of the most satisfactory character. At the conclusionlof the drill, Major Lusk addressed the battery to the effect that he would be aide to sign their efficiency certificates as Artillery Volunteers without any doubt, for he bail not tlie pleasure of seeing volunteers before as the, Auckland Artillery were ; this fine company, the oldest in the colony, still keeps its position as the senior in numbers, drill, and efficiency, which speaks for itself. Captain Burns and his Lieutenant must feel honoured at the remarks made by the In spector last evening. We understand that it is the intention of tlie Artillery Company to make two batteries, as their numbers are daily increasing. We also are informed that an Artillery corps will be formed at Onehunga, in connection with the corps, so that the Artillery arms of the service will be more effective if required for active service. ADDRESS TO MAJOR GORDON. On Wednesday evening next the volun teers of the district will assemble in the drill-shed, in full-dress uniform, when the illuminated address and testimonial will be presented to Major Gordon, the late com manding officer of the district. We under stand tho testimonial will be such as will do honour to our local volunteers. Captain Burns i« the treasure* of the testimonial Imix A}\ tfikm Vffep haye. no.t, $$&% th 6

address are requested to call upon Lieut, Saunders, where it is ready for signature.

EDEN COUNTY COUNCIL.

An adiourncd meeting of the Eden County Council was hold last evening. Present: Coun cillors A. K. Tavlor (chairman). Thornc, IVlasc fleld, Ireland, Jackson, Udy, Wallis, Kissling. and Wrigley. There was a large attendance ot ratepayers, the end of the room and passage leading thereto being crowded. Minutes. — The secretary having read tno minutes, Councillor WaUis objected to the entry as to adiournment, as it did not state that tho meeting was adjourned to discuss the substan tive motion standing in his name. The chairman said there was no motion to that effect. Councillor Walhs said every oi_ understood that the meeting was adjourned for that pur pose. , The minutes were confirmed. Correspondence.—Tho secretary was about to read the correspondence, when Councillor Kissling said ho would oppose the reading of letters until tho question of hanging up the Act had been decided. Councillor Maseflold thought the letters should be read. ~, „ , , , .. Councillor Kissling said he referred to letters sent out, not letters received. Letter read from C. T. Batkin, Secretary to Treasury, Wellington, requesting particulars of toll-gate's in the county. . , Letter from R. T. Warnock, respecting joint construction of a road from Cox's Creek to Pon sonby.

*f THE ITANGTNG-UP QUESTION. Councillor Masefleld said, as mover of the adjournment at the last meeting, he had intended to adjourn for tho express purpose of discussing Dr Wallis's motion at the present sitting, but he had omitted to tabic a distinct motion to that effect, and he feared, therefore, that it would be illegal to discuss tho matter to-night. The dis cussion had been fixed for Monday evening, and he was much astonished that Councillor Walhs did not attend on that evening. He (Councillor Masefleld) would therefore move "That this Council now aciiourn till the 21st March, and he would tabic a resolution that the third section of tho Counties Act bo not brought into opera tion within the County of Eden. Ho would be present on that occasion, if no one else were present. Councillor Ireland soconded the motion. I lie 77th section provided that no extraordinary business should be taken unless notice had been given at a prior meeting. Councillor Kissling said it was arranged on tho Monday evening that the question of hang ing up the Act should be discussed at this meeting. He would oppose any further post ponement of the questiOD. Councillor Jackson thought the. minutes would not bear ont Councillor Kisslinar's statement.

Councillor Kissling: I did not say Dr Watlis was in the room, but I saw him about the building. Councillor Jackson: Oh, I sawbim.

Councillor Thorn« felt that, as there was a legal difficulty, the Council ought to adiourn for a week. If they did not carry the resolution to ham? up the Act in a strictly legal way, the Government would take advantage of it. Ho would draw attention to the fact that seven days' notice must be given. Councillor Masefiold desired to amend his motion for adjournment to that day week, the 23rd inst.

Councillor Ireland seconded the motion,

Councillor Wallis proposed as an amendment, " That this meeting do not adjourn, but that the Council of the County of Eden do now resolve that such part of the County Councils Act as is mentioned in the 3rd schedule do not come into force." He supposed they all admitted that a mistake had been made in postponing the question so long. It was high time they came to a decision, and he placed no value upon the trumpery objection raised to-night. The speaker briefly traced the circumstances under which the Act was passed. Three parties in the. House, by admitting the permissive principle, had virtually admitted that the Act was faulty, though the wise men of Eden thought otherwise. Even ministers had refused to bring Ihe Act, into operation in places where t hoy have power. It was the wish of the people throughout (he County of Eden that the Act should bo suspended. ' Both before

and after the elections the same desire had been expressed, except at one extraordinary meeting at the Whau. Was the Council, which was the mere representative of the people, to oppose itself to their will? A majority of the Council -seven members—were pledged to their constituenfs to hangup the Act. The Act should

also be suspended for financial reasons. Coun cillor Ireland had drawn up a very creditable document on tho income and expenditure of the County, and he (the speaker! having gone over the figures, bad found that if the Act were not hung up, tho County would be involved in financial difiiculties and increased taxation. Councillor Ireland's statement represented £2,000 balance. While they talked of re ducing fees and building a new slaughter house, they estimated £1000 from slaughter houses. £3,800 was set, down as subsidies from the Government, but no one would be so ignorant as to suppose that the subsidies would be continued for five years. They should not reckon on this problematical subsidy. The first item of income would he public-house, and brewer's licenses. £1.330. This money went into the Treasury at Wellington, and when a time 3f difficulty came would be seized by tho Govern ment. The next item was toll dues, £3,500, but in this age of progress those obnoxious toll-bars should be removed. (Hear, hear, from the public). Land Fund was set down to yield the extraordinary sum of £105 10s. There would be another £100 from dog collars,making in all about £1000. As to expenditure. Mr All wright estimated the cost of county roads at £3.100. The hospital was put down at £1.800 or £1.930, and next came salaries, about, which one statement was made in the Council, and another outside, and at tho Whau a different one still. It, was stated in the Council that salaries would be £1,200, at the meeting at Newmarket—which was a very line meeting indeed (laughter)—it was said the salaries wotdd amount to £1030, and at the Whau £800. It was like the famous tent in the Arabian Nights, which would cover one man, or nn army. There would in all he an expendi ture of £6000, leaving a deficiency of £2000, which would have to be mot by increased taxation. That would mean not a tax of Is but Is fid or even 2s in the £. There was a way of getting bank overdrafts. They might borrow £1000 or £5000 and shove off" taxation for another year and some of their mouths watered for an over draft. Ho would ask the clerk to read clause 155 of the Act. (Cause read). Thus they could only borrow a sum equal to the rates up to March last, and for all borrowed over that amount the Councillors would be personally responsible. Thus the Government would be in a position to put the screw on them, saying, "If you do not do this or that, we will make you personally responsible.' The people were tired of this dilly-dallying, and the sooner the question was decided the better. It was stated that Onehunga was to be taken out of the county, and he could not, belp feeling astonished at the action of Councillor Jackson.

Councillor Jackson: I protest. I)r Walhs has no rig-lit to prejudge my vote.

Councillor Wallis: Councillor Jackson stated, in this room, that he would be the last to force upon others what he would not take upon him self.

Councillor Jackson: I protest against this language. Have I done anything to shew that I have altered my opinion. Councillor Wallis: lam glad to hear that you are still of tlm same mind. Councillor Jackson : When I alter it, that is time for yon to speak. Councillor Wallis went, on to comment upon the hollowncss of talking about a new slaughter house and reduction of fees. If the Act were hung up the butchers would learn to take their trade into their own hands. It was the only trade in the Colony under the protection of the Government. He would beseech the Council for the sake of peace to decide this question in a manful way once for all, without the quibbles of law. He had proved to them that he had some knowledge of law (laughter), and he would assure them that they were perfectly safe in hanging up the Act at once. There was no public body that had become so unpopular in three weeks as the Eden County Council. And then to crown all there was that terrible seal. Oh, he was really ashamed of it. It was one of the most wonderful things- Mr Masefleld: I have listened to this oration, but I think Councillor Walhs might reserve it for next meeting. Councillor Wallis : We ought not to run into the very extreme of public obloquy and detesta tion. In alluding to that extraordinary device called a seal—

Councillor Thome : AYe are not here to listen to a description of the seal. Councillor Wallis: Another thing I have to mention—

The Chairman : Please to sit down Councillor Wallis, Councillor Thome is speaking on a point of order.

Cr. Ihc-rne : Keep him to the amendment. Cr. Walhs: As you are getting impatient, I will be brief. (Ironical hear hears from Crs. Masefleld and Jackson, and coughs from the Uan-main). The speaker concluded by moving the amcniiment.

The Chairman (after a pause): Does no one second the amendment ?

Councillor Masefleld: I then ask you to put my motion-" That this Council do adjourn to iu-iday, the 23rd day of March, at 0 p.m. in the evening." Councillor Udy said he would have seconded Councillor Waffls's resolution, hut ho feared there was a loop-hole. Councillor Jackson said he would not answer the misrepresentations of Councillor Wallis. ,y?q, speaker commented on the fact that Dr. WaUis had n«t attended on the previous Mon day evening. r The Chairman said if it were true, as Coun cillor Y\ albs had stated, that a majority of the _*SHk2iiT_? in. t a}* our of bggSfa* »P the Act w.hs had they not done so. He charged Coun cillor \7V alba entirely with the delay: (Cries of nonsense, and oh, oh.) He would put the

, Or. Wallis : Why 6 p.m. 1 Bcoauao it ia a question that can be decided in a fcv minutes; T waiit to ao heme on that evening. ™Hli w ™ Gfc YfoUfot Wliat & tfwre uwteiMUte Spools I

We put off this question before, and it Wo agreed that this evening should be fixed forTS 3 discussion. me The Chairman, who had several times calloa Cr. WaUis to order, then put the resolution wbich was carried on the voices. u«un, Cr. Masefield handed in the following nn«„ of motion:—" That this Council is of_?ninm that the 3rd section of the Counties Actiqainni come into force in the County of Eden."3J=x The meeting then concluded. ' "^c-j

RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION IN SCHOOLS.

To the Editor of the Evening Star Sm- A great outcry is being raised about thn presumed difficulties of giving religious insW tion in our common schools. I say presumed for I am convinced that these difficulties a™ more imaginary than real. If the clergy will undertake the work in earnest, thoy Tviuranidhr find not only that difficulties will vanish bnt that assistance will be rendered whenever it can bo of practicable value. But when one clerev man objects to undertake the duty, unless tho schoolmaster remain to preserve discipline and another objects if the schoolmaster 'does remain, I say, sir, that thoughtful men can only come to one conclnsion on the matter. It is no use whatever for illiterate enthusiastists to undertake so important a work as that of imparting religious instruction to the children in our common schools. They are used to better teaching than these can jrive them, and will only laugh at their futile efforts both to control and teach them; but let the work be undertaken by men and women competent for the position, and success is certain.—l am &c, Sentinel. '

TELEGRAPHIC.

[FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.]

Good Prospects from the Head of the Moanatairi.

GRAHAMSTOWN, this day.

On Monday morning, Brett and party, at new ground at the head of the Moanatairi which persons are prospecting, came up] and have 123 ozs. from ten loads of stone brought down. THE THAMES COUNTY COUNCIL APPROPRIATIONS. The Thames County Council vote them selves all the expenses of attending for members outside a radius of live miles, and the following is the appropriation of the year's income : — Roads, bridges, etc. (Hasting Riding) £500 ; Goldlields roads, Kauwaeranga and Waiotahi, £1700 ; Kauweranga bridge, £1500 ; Kauwaeranga Valley road, £300; Thames to Puriri, £450 ; Puriri to Paeroa. £450 ; Paeroa to Puka, £100 ; Paeroa to Mackytown and Owhiro'a, £250 ; Goldfields roads and tracks, £500. Total, £0,759. THE COUNCIL'S TERMS TO UN WORKED MINES. The County Council came to the conclu sion privately, says the "Advertiser," to offer the following terms to directors whose mines are mortgaged for £50,000: " That if the companies would go to work and prospect the ground, they should receive credit for the amount so expended when an adjustment of the debt Avas made." By this means the com panies will be concurrently working off their liability, on account of the loan, and prospecting their ground in the hope of finding something to enable them to do it much more cheerfully and satisfactorily. The Council also stipulate, that if these companies are so fortunate as to come upon gold, they shall only be required to con tribute at the rate of ten per cent, out of the show of gold, towards liquidating their indebtedness to the Council on account „ the securities. THE MOANATAIRI. There is nothing fresh from Moanatairi, which will clean up on Saturday, after putting through nearly three-quarters of a ton of specimen stone. COROMANDEL, this day. UNION BEACH.—ANOTHER AURIFEROUS LEADER. Union Beach: Another large leader was cut yesterday, showing gold in very payable quanti ties. Kapanga: Gold in payable quantities is being obtained daily. MERCURY BAY. The Ocean is loading. The Ettie White has sailed. The Start has arrived. WHANGAPOUA. Albatross and Arcadia are loaded, waiting * favourable wind. The Lizzie arrived last night. There was a drive of logs from the Waingara last night.

The Fire and Loss of Life.

DUNEDIN, this day.

There is to be an inquiry into the fire at Wnveiiey Boarding-house. Mr William son, its owner, estimates his loss at £600, of which £400 was insured in the New Zea land oflice. Mrs McCluskie, the occupier, estimates her loss at £250, £50 of which is actual money lost, and is insured. Mr Dodd's loss by removal, etc., is over £300, of which a little over half is insured iv the New Zealand. The origin of the fire is said to have been from the kitchen lire-place stand ing too close to tlie boarded wall which divided the kitchen from the parlour. Daniel Barrett, who was burnt to death, was a native of Cork, aged 20, and had been three years in the colony. He only went to Waverley House on Saturday. His bed room was right over the room in which the fire broke out. Ann Ryan, one of the boarders, seriously injured herself in jump ing out of the window. TRAINING NOTES. Some good work Avas done at Forbury yesterday. Titania and Templeton did a rattling two mile gallop, doing the second mile in 2 mm. 12 sees., or 2 sees, quicker than King Phillip and Dead Heat on Tuesday. Elfin King and Punga did not do such fast work. Hippo at last appeared on the course, doing a mile in 2 mm. 15 sees. The course will be open to-day and Friday for the last time. At Forbury, to-day, some fast work was done by Punga, who strides over the ground in much tlie old style, but her coat does not look so becoming as last year. Tlie gallop of the morning was between Fishook and Stanley, who went two miles with Cup weight, up. O'Brien's horse went strong and free, but the other shot his bolt. Bower shews no sign of lameness, and his trainer affirms he was never freer from defect. ___

Alarming Outbreak of Scarla tina.

The Public Schools Closed-

[PER PRESS AGENCY.]

HOKITIKA, this day. Scarlatina is so prevalent in town that the public schools have been closed until further notice; t\vo more deaths are reported, and one death has occurred daily for several days past. The young generally are attacked, but the disease in the last two ol three days has been of a malignant type. The Board of Health are now using CA'ery precaution to stay the spread of the disease.

ANOTHER COUNTY GIVING UP THE ACT.

BLENHEIM, this day. The Marlborough County Council have passed a resolution not to adopt the full poAvers of the Act. CHRISTCHURCH, this day. MR M. WASON ADDRESSES HIS CONSTITUENTS. Mr Wason, M.H.R., has addressed J Coleridge constituents, and received a votfcj of confidence. The Waimate branch line, from W Great Southern Railway, Avill be opened for traffic on Monday next.

WELLINGTON, MMi* PASSENGERS PER TAUPO FOR NELSON. Saliort-TiHiuo for Nolsoa at 7 a.m, Pass«J sera; Misa Klcman, Messrs Pallott, Boordefl. Um<m>, zvmik Wmi^t fcwi awwtft *Wc

THE EVENING STAR, THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 1877.



jp R E T O N N E S! ! ! Large Assortment of Beautiful Patterns in CRETONNES Just Opened. FURNISH your House economically from the _ City Hail Arcade. FURNISH your Drawing-roomfrom Holloway and Garlick's Choice Stock. TT'URNISH your Dining-room, Kitchen, and _/ Bedroom with substantial and Cheap Furniture. TJEDDINGI—AII made on the Premises. "OEDDlNG!—Guaranteed Genuine. BEDDRSTG!— To fit all sizes Bedsteads and Cots. E>EDSTEADS !—Half-tester, French, and > Folding:. BEDSTEADS —Iron, Wood, all sizes and prices. "OEDSTEAD Hangings made to order. IN OLEUM!—The best covering for Floors of Halls, Dining, and Billiard Rooms. Unsurpassed for durability. INOLEUM !—Especially prepared for Stairs, just opened ex Loch Urr. _ LADIES AND GENTLEMEN wanting Good and Cheap Furniture, Drapery, and Clothing, are invited to inspect Our Stock. Most Extensive Show-rooms in Auckland. HOLLOWAY & GARLICK, CITY HALL FURNISHING ARCADE, Queen-street and Lome- street. Auckland. cT_ REMO va l H. ~A TKras BEGS TO ANNOUNCE THAT HE m H A S EEMOVEDII^I TO the Premises Next Door Below his Old Shop. H. ATKINS Begs to heartily thank his numerous Cus tomers for their very liberal patronage from his first commencing business up to the present time, and to assure them that although his trade has increased to that extent, that his REMOVAL to more Commodious Premises was a neces sity, the same principles of business will still be adhered to: viz., keeping a good article, buying in the cheapest market, and selling at the smallest profit possible. His New Shop shall always be known as The Cheapest in Auckland. H.A. will be happy to see all his old Customers, and as many now ones as may honour Mm with their patronage. AiSPLENDID STOCK OF DRAPERY AND CLOTHING Will always he found, and the PRICES THE LOWEST IN AUCKLAND! H. AT.XI N SL "1W" O T I C E J. W. PEARSE INTENDS HOLDING A CHEAP CLEARING ' OUT SALE OF HIS' LARGE AND VALUABLE STOCK OF GENERAL DRAPERY, READY-MADE CLOTHING, And FANCY GOODS, s_" At a Very Great Reduction ! Sale to Commence on SATURDAY, 3rd March. No Credit Given. Closed on Friday to Mark Down the Stock. T~_xsrNTON\ iMITHTANDFiRTH'S PRICES CURRENT (WHOLESALE). Sacks. 100's. 50's. Crownßrand Flour, £ s, d. £jj d. * b. d. *Sa Q? 8?,7-ir 0 0 17 10.0 18 0 0 Seconds Flour .. .. If 10 « Sharps 810 0 .. Bran ■ • v v o • • • ■ Fowl Wheat .. ~ 0 5 oto ss. 6d, .. Tho above prices include sacks and bags > gftOfeS and bags not returnable* Tonus; Cash,



TO TOURISTS AND VISITORS TO WAIKATO AND THE LAKES. BUGGIES (DOUBLE AND SINGLE), AND SADDLE HORSES, ALWAYS READY FOR HIRE AT REASONABLE CHARGES. Parties intcndingto go through to the Lakes provided with first-class animals by B. EDWARDS (Late of Cobb & Co.), LIVERY STA BL E KEEPER, Hamilton Hotel, Hamilton, Waikato. J' C O S GRA V E & C 0., Beg to announce they will bring forward A Fresh Lot of B' A R G A I N SH! Consisting of HEIR LATE SHIPMENT BY THE ORARI, Purchased at Home at Job Prices, together with the whole of their SUMMER DRAPERY & CLOTHING, REDUCED IN PRTCE TO SUIT THE TIMES overal Bales of CALICO, damaged by sea water, will be Sold nnitor Invoioo Prino. OOYS' ANT) MEN'S CLOTHING, O STRONG TWEED FOR BOYS' WEAR FLANNEL, &c, &c. A LARGE PARCEL OF NEW GOODS JUST OPENED UP RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN'S, Comprising— Men's Tweed Trouser variety, from 10,b Men's Strong Tweed Salts, at 30/ sui complete Men's Superior Quality Subs Paget Coats, and Bo rs'and Youths' Suits in variety Men's Moleskin Trousers, a really good quality, at 7/6 per pan- . Strong Cotton Working Shirts in variety All Wool Crimean Shirts, good qualities, from 6/6 And. A Lot of STRONG TWEED, suitable for Boys, wear, from 1/11 per yard 2 Bales ALT, WOOL WELSH FLANNEL from 1/2 per yard New Prints, Furnishing Gooas, &c, Insnection will prove that the above Goods are really cheap, tho whole parcel having been exceptionally WELL bought in an over stocked market. _f One Shilling in tho £ returned on all pur chases of 20s. and upwards. USHBROOK & BRIDGMAN, Upper Queen-street Auckland ItjIURNITURE! FURNITURE Ladies and Gentlemen about to Furnish are respect fully requested to inspect the Large Stock of DRA WING - ROOM, DINING -ROOM BEDROOM, AND GENERAL HO USER OLD F URN! T URE, In our Nem and Spacious Slwwrooms. T. & S'COOKE, 67 QUKKNSTRKET Adioininu Tianh of New Zi',i.lawi -JjT O T I C E. The BANKS will be CLOSED on SATUR DAY, 17th March (St. Patrick's Day). Manning's Worm Powders.—This excellent Vermifuge is safe and quick in its operation. One or two doses is sufficient. Hundreds ol testimonials may be seen from those who have used them. Price. Is. a packet.— Prepared only bySiiARLAND & Co., Apothecaries Mall, oppo site Post-office. Auckland. Atkinson's Perfum ery and Specialities. .-,,-,, The unwary are liable to be swindled by knaves who put up cheap and deleterious imi tations of Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aro matic SCHNAPPS in bottles which formerly held that world-renowned cordial. Labels which are counterfeits or similar to the true ones lend ad ditional plausibility to the deceit; but those who are acquainted with the appearance and flavour of the true Schnapps are never imposed upon. MUTUAL LIFE ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALASIA. Incorporated by Act op Parliament. NEW ZEALAND BRANCH: Head Office, Auckland. Local Director: George Burgoyne Owen, Esq. (Messrs. Owen and Graham.) Principal Medical Officer: Ciiarle3 Field Goldsbro', Esq., M.D. General Agent for New Zealand : William T. J. Bell. With Sub-Agencies in all the Principal Towns. Every information on the subject of LIFE ASSURANCE ANNUITIES, and ENDOW MENTS FOR CHILDREN, afforded by J. A. Lowe, Travelling Agent to the Association ; or WILLIAM T. J. BELL, General Agent. SSL Special Features.— Age admitted on Policies, which are unchallangable from date of issu^. Lowest Rates of Premiums, and no hamper ing conditions as to residence or occupation.