SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

___ __ _,_ . „„_ i This Afternoon, 9.29 _ili.il \. A11.!.— - To-morroAV Morning, 9.18 PUN SET.—This Evening, 6.10. StlN RISE.—To-morrow Morning, G.B MOON'S AGE.-First Quarter. 23rd,0.18

ARRIVALS.

Hero, s.s., Logan, from Sydney.«_»_

DEPARTURES.

Santi_„o. barque, 100 tons, Aionat, ror «_onoep tmn Bay.

IMPORTS.

Ex Taupo, 5 Nelson cheese.—T. 11. Hall and Co.

The barque Pantiaeo left in ballast this morn ingfor Tome, Conception Ray, South America She will load home with nitrate. , , fn the shipping column of this mornings "Ifor.ild," appears a long statement about a strange craft, thought to be tho pilot schooner, sailing about with only a mast head bght, and the '-'Herald" reporter soes on to say he hopes ihe sanposed identity Avill be disproved. There is some i_norance shewn hereof the rules and regulations in reference to lights to be exhibited by vessels. Tho rule in reference to pilot vessels is "Hailing pilot vessels are to carry only a Avhitc light at the mast bead, and are to exhibit a flare-up light every fifteen minutes. The schooner Wave of Life arrived at Timaru from Russell, on the 10th inst. The whaling barque Matilda, now in Russell, is to call here for seamen, before, leaving on another cruise. The s.s. Taupo is to leaA re Onehunga for the South at noon to-morrow. The s.s. Taupo arrived from the South yester d.v. Passengers:—Mesrlamos Pearce, Grant, Lomgan, Campbell, Tomlinson, Hancock, Hamil lnn, Misses Hamilton, Dobaon. Chad wick, Sims, Laing, Revs. Tomlinson and Buddie. Captain Brelfn, Messrs Jones. Livingstone, J<_nna, Buchanan, Andrews, Embling.f Hankey, Mit chell. Jennings. Campbell, Lonicaa, Bennett, Hamilton, Smith, Horrel, GaA.n, Hancock, . Buckland, and G steerage.—Henderson and Mac farlane, agents. The schooner Atlantic arrived at Lyttelton on the l_th inst. from the Thames. The s.s. Jane Douglas leaves at 4 o'clock this afternoon, for Gisbornc and Napier. Passengers Mr. G. M. McVey, Mrs. and Miss McVey. The brig Wave, and the ketch Clematis cleared at Lvttelton on the 12th inst., the former for this pori[ and the Latter for Onehunga. The schooner Elizabeth left Lyttelton on the 12th for this port. Tiie Dayspring, schooner, entered out to-day for the New Hebrides, The schooner Kricmhilda has entered in from Wangaroa with2B,oooft. timber.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under :—

For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m., and to

morrow, at 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, per Argyle. on Friday ,23rd

inst., at 2.30 p.m. For Russell, Wangaroa, and Mongonui, per

lona, this day, at 4 p.m. For Rarotonga, per Blanch, to-morrow, at 9 a.m. For WaiAvera, KaAvau, and Matakana, per Anne Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Taupo, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For money orders and registered letters, and newspapers at 9 a.m. Late letters Avill be received till 10.20 a.m. For Wangarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Argyle, to-morrow, at 4 p.m. For Tahiti, per Coronet, on Wednesday, 21st

inst., at 8 a.m. For Whitianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowena, on Wednesday next, at 4 p.m. For Norfolk IsKnd, per Southern! Cross, on or ggabout Wednesday, 4th April.

S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster,

COMMERCIAL.

Messrs Cochrane and Son onered a numoer oi properties, lands, etc., for sale, to-day, at their Fort-street mart. The piece of land in Graham street, with two cottages thereon, realised £320. The properties in Ponsonby and Hepburn-street were not sold. Lots 35 and 41, Watson's Park, fetched £300, and lot 31, £54. . The Cro-svn Princes Gold Mining Company s mine, plant; etc., brought £1750, and was pur chased Avith tho Adew of forming a new com pany. ~ ... ~ . MrJGeo. Sibbin was proceeding Avith the tialc of the grocery stock of MrTudehope, by order of the trustee in bankrupcy, as we went to press.

DEATH.

COCHRANE.—On the 18th instant, at tho Pro vincial Hospital, Auckland, Now Zealand, Robert, son of Robert Cochrane, Esq., of Lang side, near Glasgow, aged 10 years. _ The funeral will leave the Hospital at 3.30 p.m. to-morrow.

LYMN.—On the 19th March, Maria Lymn aged 83 years. Her end Avas peace. The funeral Avill loave her son-in-law s resi dence, North Shoro, at 4 o'clock to-morrow. Friends please accept this invitation.

SKIRVING.—On the 19th March, 1877, atKyber Pass, Auckland, New Zealand, David OliA-er, second eldest son of James SkirAdng, and grandson of the late Adam SkirAdng, of NeAV hall, Haddingtonshire, Scotland, aged 4 years and 4 months. Deeply regretted. — Home papers please copy. The funeral Avill leave his late residenco at 4.30 p.m. to-morrow.

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

MONDAY. MARCH 19, 1877

4_ For the c__sp that lacks assistant*, For the wrong that need 6 resistance, For the future in the distance. And the _ood tliat we can do.

The necessity for legislation to repress drunkenness Avas among the other recom mendations made in the report of the Dunedin Benevolent Society, Avhose opinion upon Avife-desertion Aye passed under revieAV a feAV clays ago. The Committee, like aU other organizations engaged in the work of relieving and reclaiming the lapsed masses, have found that moral and religious influ ences fail to reach many of those Avhose vicious habits have thrown a needless burden of destitution and pauperism on the State. The character of the antidote Avhich the experience of the Committee suggests, is thus vaguely indicated in their cry for immediate legislation : —

._" 1. The compelling of lazy, drunken, worth less husbands to work and maintain their own Avives and children. 2. The abandonment of the present absurd mode of dealing with known habitual drunkards, and the institution of Asylums for all such inebriates, where they could be saved from themselves and their OAvn weakness, and at the same time be made to contribute largely towards their own main tenance, until so thoroughly reformed as to be worthy of restoration to freedom."

Mr Bathgate, R.M., who took an active part at the society's meeting, differed some what from the vieAV expressed in the report. He said : " When a magistrate is compelled to sentence some poor wretch for the iiftieth time, and yet cannot go beyond the statu tory time, and must go on repeating it, it is high time that additional poAvers Avere con ferred upon magistrates to enable them to deal Avitli drunkenness more effectively." The opinion of Mr Bathgate, as gathered from his Avhole speech, appears to be that habitual drunkenness is not ranked high enough as a crime, and that the tendency of any repressive legislation should be to enlarge the present limited terms of im prisonment which a magistrate may inflict. The inefficiency of the laAv as it stands, to check the national sin, is patent to everyone, but to one or tAvo points of the proposed remedy we most decidedly demur. Tho evil of the present system appears to us to hinge largely on a mistaken vieAV of the proper legal status of the offence, and a consequent inequality and glaring injus tice in the administration of the penalties. To rank the drunkard, as Mr. Bathagte apparently contemplates, Avith the thief and other high-class criminals, would only exaggerate the original error. The treat ment of the drunkard as a criminal at all, is, indeed, the point on which all other anomalies in our legislation for the reformation of dipsomaniacs turn. True, it is, that the evils to society from drunken ness may place breakers of the law in that way among the greatest enemies of the conimon-Avealth, and the drunkard Avho throAVs his Avife and family on the commu nity may morally be a bigger ruffian and scoundrel than one who forges a cheque. But if the laAv is to brand drunkenness as a crime, and award offenders their portion Avith the jail-birds of Mount Eden, it should be as just in its administration as it is Avith the forger, and not lead the Avell - dressed criminal to his home, while the rougher and friendless one finds his enforced lodging place in the police-cells. There are, lioav ever, such physical infirmities and recognised palliations, that, although strictly speaking as the law uoav stands drunkenness is as much a crime as any other breach of the laAv for wlrich men find employment in geological pursuits at Mount Eden, yet practically to transgress the laAv is no offence unless you are either unknown to the police as otherwise Avell behaved.orhave no friends to see you home. The system is thus radically rotten in prin ciple, but it is still worse in its influence on those Avho first fall victims to its penalties. The drunkard who has once spent a night in the police cells, and made his appearance before the Police Court or possibly done his term Avith hardened criminals in the Stockade, has undergonethe first process by Avhich habitual drunkards are manufactured. Reformation from that point is barred to all but resolute Avills aided by friendly hands. Repressive legislation Avill never be effective as applied to drunkenness until a distinctive system has been created for its treatment in keeping Avith the distinctive character istics, physical and social, of the offence. Inebriate" Asylums, on the_ voluntary system, Avhich were once hailed as the great panacea, have proved an utter failure. But Aye believe that,in combination Avith Mr Bathgate's proposal to enlarge the poAvers of imprisonment, they Avould ap proach nearer than any other place of confinement to that class of reformatory which the legislature should provide for the reception of those semi-diseased, semi lunatic, and socially -rained -and -ruining patients. The drunkard should be awarded a distinct place in our jurispru dence. Short terms of imprisonment are useless and degrading, and in ninety-nine cases out a hundred, as experienced police ofilcurs .y-iij .slate, tluj first nae made of liberty i§ ft g<s fowl* TJM es^W_H_.^

of special penal departments Avhero long terms of imprisonment could be combined aa _th suitable Avork and medical treatment, is, so far as all past experience can be relied on, the only just and reformatory method of dealing Avith this difficult but widespread and serious evil.

Wellington Avould.be nothing without its Civil Service, and anywhere out of Welling ton the Civil Service would dwindle down to small dimensions, and be almost lost sight of among the A'arious elements of the social system. But in Wellington the Civil Service permeates every class of the community, and forms a kind of quasi aristocracy, divided into Avoll-understood and clearly defined castes, which are as hard and fast as those of the Hindoos. It is the Civil Servant who receives all the best invitations, avlio is the best;—and sometimes worst—customer of the fashionable tailor ; it is the Civil Seiwant who leads the fashion, avlio get the best seat at the table d'hote, and it is the Civil Servant who carries off all the best prizes in the matrimonial lottery. But in the social courtesies the conventionalities of caste are observed with the strictest exactitude. The heads of departments have their oavii social coteries, the deputies and assistants have theirs, and so it runs in a regular slid ing scale doAvn to tho poor junior clerk, Avho must be satisfied Avith a room in the attic, and be prepared in cases of emergency, such as a sudden inroad of lobbyists during the sitting of Parliament, to A-aeate in favour _f some superior, who, in his turn, has had to j make way for an M.H.R., or some influen tial political magnate. The subordinate Civil Servants felt these draAvbacks so keenly a few years ago that they deter mined to ameliorate their condition by the establishment of a Civil Service Club on the co-operative principle, Avhere tho various branch os of the service might meet on a common footing, and the rough angu larities of official hauteur be rubbed off in a sort of club freemasonry. A considerable sum of money Avas raised, a local boniface avus induced to devoto a portion of his house to the purpose, the placo was fitted up in a recherche style, and nothing but cordial co operation Avas needed to crown tho effort Avith success. SomehoAV, however, the great and dreaded heads of departments fought shy of tho scheme, tho Under- Secretaries and Assistant-Secretaries caught the infection, and the Club fell on evil days. Internal dissensions about questions of precedence were the chief stumbling blocks. Brown, the assistant under Secretary in tho Lands Department, could not put up Avith the airs of that fellow Smith, a junior clerk in the Department of Immigration ; and Smith thought Brown Avas endeavour ing to introduce into the club the routine and red-tape of "the shop." The result was that the club dwindled away until it Avas no longer self-supporting, nnd it finally expired from a complaint in the chest. But since then the want of a Civil Service Club has been forced on the attention of those all poAverful personageSjthe " Heads of Depart ments," Avho now, as we learn from the " Argus," propose to fit up as a Civil Service Bellamy's a small building at. the back "of the premises forinely occupied by the Colonial Architect. Some magnate has conceived the brilliant idea of combining official discipline with profit, and Avhen the arrangements shall have been completed the civil servants will not only be admitted to the privilege of obtaining lunch at 50 per cent above the ordinary charge, but will have instilled into their minds the duty of paying proper deference to their superiors. Probably the luncheon and billiard rooms will be hung with select mottoes from the Civil Service Regulations. The next step will be to pro vide a uniform for Civil Servants, dis tinguishing their various grades. The Wellington "Argus" suggests a number, after tho manner of convict establishments. Of course the heads of departments will have cocked hats and epaulets. The Civil Service of Ncav Zealand has become of such magnitude and importance that some such change is an absolute necessity, in order to preserve the dignity of the superiors, and to prevent awlvAvard mistakes as regards identity. The only drawback is, that that ferocious monster, the British taxpayer, knocking up against the uniform on every fourth or fifth man he meets in the streets of the Empire City, will feel disposed _to knock doAvn those bloated estimates Avhich lie at the root of all this grand display of flunkeyism.

For the enlightenment of any of our readers avlio may have received the country edition on .Saturday, and toAvn edition to day, Aye may explain that to-night's leading article appeared in a feAv copies on Saturday evening, Avhen it Avas withdrawn to make room for iicavs.

An intersting account of the missionary schooner Dayspring, and I,avo letters to the editor on current topics appear on the fourth page of to-night's issue.

The advertisements of amusements appear this evening in our front page, instead of the third as usual.

The Chicago Minstrels are still perform ing with great success in Wellington. Miss Lydia HoAvarde, Mddle. Solonge Navarro, Miss Jennie Nye, and other members of the Lydia Howard. Burlesque Co., have gone to Nelson, where they open on the 21st inst. Mr. Severn is lecturing with con siderable success financially in.Wellington.

The approach to the railway station has been alloAved to remain so long in an almost impassable condition, that we have again to urge on the authorities the necessity of taking steps to form a decent footpath for travellers per train. It is impossible to find a decent track. Ladies especially are much distressed at having to wade through an extent of mud. The near approach of the Avet season makes it desirable that some thing be done to remedy this grievance.

Herr Liudauer, the AV*ell-knoA\ 7n portrait painter, is now established in a small attic behind the Chamber of Commerce, in Wel lington. He intended to proceed by the San Francisco mail, en route to his native Austria, but avus induced to remain a month in Wellington, to paint the portraits of well-knoAvn citizens.

Notwithstanding the unfavourable state of the weather, the Sunday evening sendee at the Theatre, Avas well attended. The addresses were delivered by Rev R. F. Macnicol, and Mr Henry Ellis. Amount of collection £1 2s.

The children attending St. James's Presbyterian Sunday-school Avill meet at that church on the afternoon of Saturday next, at 2.30, and proceed in procession to the Avharf, where they will go on board the schooner Dayspring. The children Avill be addressed by the missionaries, after which a cocoanut Avill be presented to each.

Water from the Karangahape Road reser voir was turned into the mains on Saturday, Avhen the pipes stood the strain Avithout a breakage. A hose Avas attached to one of the fire-plugs and a stream of Avater thrown over Messrs OAven and Graham's store, and Mr Firth's mill. We understand that a more systematic test Avill take place a feAv days hence. At about half-past two o'clock this afternoon, a stir Avas created in Queen street by the bursting of one of the pipes on the opposite side of the road from Messrs. J. and J. Dickey's shop. A jet resembling a high fountain or geyser was thrown to a considerable height, and spray was throAvn as far as the United Service Hotel. A hole about tAvo feet square Avas torn in the road. The water was quickly turned off, and the crowd that had assembled to witness the novel spectacle dispersed.

A special meeting of the Loyal Fountain of Friendship Lodge of Oddfellows will be held to-morrow (Tuesday) evening, at eight o'clock, for the. kim^etion of important busing

The neat and cleanly appearance of the children of the Orphan Homes who visited the Pantascope on Saturday afternoon Avas the theme of general remark. They ap peared neatly dressed and weU fed, and Avere in high glee with the liberal distribu tion of prizes. Mr G. P. Pierce superin tended the movements of tho children of the Parnell Orphanage, and Mr Stickley was in charge of the inmates of the Home. The arrangements were carried out in the most orderly manner, and the children were evi dently much pleased with the entertain ment.

The complimentary concert to Mr Dean, to be held this evening in the Lome-street Hall, will be of a varied and interesting character, under the patronage of Captain Bums and the officers and members of the Artillery, and members of the several Lodges of Foresters and OddfelloAVS. The performances, including ballads, musi cal pieces, and other specialities, will be by members of the Clair Magnet Troupe, and the best amateurs of Auckland. The celebrated Fox will appear on his magic pedestal, and at the close of the programme a quadriUo party AviU form.

Wo observe that a notice is posted in City Council offices that aU contractors, certificates and other accounts for payment must be lodged before 4 o'clock on the day preceding the Council's ordinary meetings, or they Avill not be paid until tho next fortnightly meeting.

Should this evening bo favorable, tho members of the Engineer and City baud Avill perform as usual in the Barrack reserve.

The Right Reverend Bishop Sehvyn, delivered a most eloquent and forcible sermon at St Paul's church last evening, to a large and attentive congregation.

The householders in the Arch Hill dis trict will hold a meeting this evening in Mr Downey's Avorkshop, to consider the question "Is a public house to be, or not to be in the Arch Hill district?"

A special meeting of the officers of the several companies of volunteers will be held in tho Drill-shed this evening, and as the business to be introduced is of impor tance, it is necessary that every officer should be present.

Mr Richmond Thatcher, agent for Mr J. K. Emmet, leaves for Melbourne via the South by the Taupo to-morrow. As a caterer for the public and a contributor to the pages of this paper, Mr Thatcher's relations with our citizens have been pleasant, and he will be Avelcomed back should he visit the place again with any attraction.

A lliverton telegram states that Dr Monckton is surprised at the report of 11.M.5. Sapphire of the ketch Awarua at the Auckland Islands. Dr Monckton previously believed the Awarua to be at Carnaby harbour, 20 miles from Port Ross, Avhither she Avas to proceed in order to bring aAVay Mr and Mrs Nelson, and he fears that some accident had happened to the A Tessel.

The recent trip of the Emmet Company to Cisborne and Napier will, avc hear, lead to an important law suit. The company was in Napier, and to ensure Mr Emmet catching the Pacific Mail steamer City of New York, Mr DeLias chartered tho Jane Dougla.s to convey them to Auckland after the performance in Poverty Bay. The Jane Douglas had horses on board, and could not get in over the bar, and the agents therefore refused to start on the Saturday. She eventually got in, but she avhs detained through a Avant of Avater on the bar till Tuesday Avhen she started, but Avas driven back by a gale of wind, and did not get to Auckland fill some 18 hours' after the mail steamer left. The question AA'ill be Avhethcr the charter was a special one. Tho action will have to be tried at Napier in July.

The Creymouth races on Saturday Avere well attended. Izaak Walton Avon the Trial Stakes, Creeping .Jenny the Handicap Trotting Race, Tommy Dodd the Jockey Club Handicap, and Kingfisher the Divi dend Stakes.

The comparative report of the Registrar- General on the annual statistics for 187(5, gives the follovring figures as to births : — Dunedin, 995 ; Wellington, 821 ; Christ church, 597 ; Auckland ; 593. The deaths Avere :—ln Dunedin, 389 ; Auckland, 303 ; Wellington, 299 ; Christchurch, 280. The respective death rates Avere : Auckland, 24-93 per 1000 ; Christchurch, 2263 ; Well ington, 19-74; Dunedin, 1724.

The people's concert on Saturday evening, at the Yoiintf Men's room, Avas avcll at tended. Mr C. B. AndrcAv presided. Mrs Homer sang the " Dear Little Shamrock " and " I'll Steer My Barque to Erin's Isle." Mr Philpott gave one of Emmet's Dutch songs, Mr Hodgson sang "Susan Jane" and " Constantinople," Miss Lawrence gave the " Last Rose of Summer" very SAveetly, Mr Winchcomb sang the " Odd Man" (comic) and another. The entertainment terminated with the " Union Jack of England " and the " National Anthem."

Rev Walter Harris, Primitive Methodist minister, who has officiated chiefly in city west chapel, preached his farewell sermons yesterday. Numbers have been accustomed to listen to his ministrations during the last tAvo years, and these parting discourses Avere of a sound, practical character, unas sociated with unavailing regrets and senti ments. The text of the morning in Edwardes-street. Avas singularly appropriate, selected from the 37th verse of St Paul's epistle to the Phillippians, " Let your con versation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ, that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in "one spirit, with one mind, stiiving together for the faith of the gospel." The preacher briefly touched upon the leading lessons of the text, and urged, under the several heads of strife, unity, and stability, that they should strive for the faith of the gospel, by unity of action, and stability of purpose. During Mr Harris's brief labours in Auckland, he has made many friends, and he will leave for Christ church on Saturday next with their good wishes.

"Englishman" writes, hoping the Orangemen will celebrate their anniversary on the 12th July by a procession.

The inaugural soiree and entertainment in connection with the opening services of the iicav Wesleyan Church, North Shore, is fixed for Tuesday, the 27th inst.

The testimonial to Major Gordon avill be presented on Wednesday evening next, at the close of the monthly inspection of the Victoria Company.

There AVas a cricket match in the Barrack reserve on Saturday afternoon, betAveen the Juvenile Templars and the Albion Cricket Clubs, in Avhich the Juveniles Avere trium phant. The scores of the Templars amounted to SO, and the Albions to 49.

St. Patrick's Day Avas most creditably kept on Saturday. Tho school-children enjoyed themselves immensely in the glades of'the Domain, and the sports were carried on in a joyous and satisfied spirit. Revs. Fathers Fynes, Macdonald, and O'Dwyer, did their best to make the children happy by providing amusement, and mingling in the innocent sport. Messrs O'Beirne, Con noly, LeAvis, Clarke, and Dempsey, also exerted themselves in favour of the young, and not a single accident occurred during the day.

"Anti-Spiritualist" is in error Avhen he says that Spiritualists deny the existence of'" a Supreme Being and Over-ruler of the Universe." Most Spiritualists, hoAveyer, do not believe in the fundamental doctrines of Christianity. Our correspondent trusts "that the next Spiritualist lecturer who visits Auckland will have no better re-

Tqe adjourned sitting in bankruptcy in the case of S. Coombes wiß be heaid in Chambers to-morroAV before Mr Justice Gillies.

Mr Richmond Thatcher has received the illuminated testimonial, a rough draft of which Avas presented to him, together with a valuable diamond ring, on his terminat ing his connection with the Sydney Press. The testimonial is beautifully illuminated by Mr P. Booty, a Sydney artist of con - siderable merit, and it is signed by most oi the leading journalists, literary men, and some of the professional men of Sydney. The design consists of coiiA-olvulus, roses, forget-me-nots, amaryUis, and pelargonium.. Its chief characteristic is its extreme chasteness and beauty of execution and colouring.

St. Thomas's Church, Union-street, Free man's Bay, Avas avcll attended at the opening services yesterday. The Revs. W. laylor and A. R. Tomlinson were the preachers.

" Ratepayer's " letter on the Whau meeting is really too Avarm, and relates to a phase, which, after all, aa-us a puro matter oi private arrangement. Wo have received a letter from " Dio genes " in reply to tho " Herald's " attack on Mohabeer's claim to practice medicine. Our correspondent breaks two commonly observed journalistic rules : he has neg lected to forward in confidence his true name, and he should have sent his reply to the journal in A\ rhich the remarks and correspondence complained of appeared. It would be a sacrifice of our space and an imposition on our readers to force on them ansAvers to correspondence Avhich they have

never seen.

News from the North reports hea\-y floods in the Mongonui district, sAveeping out to sea sheep, pigs, and other stock, destroying miles of fencing, three bridges in the Victoria Valley, and one at Oruru.

Another Maori rumpus is reported at Te Puna, whore tho Pirirakaus to the number of a score, have marked an aukati line near the farm of Mr Frazer, about fifteen miles from Tauranga. A chief named Enoka, who Avent to see the malcontents, was treated Avith contempt and contumely. The settlers are indignant over these unseemly displays of native bounce, and the "Bay of Plenty Times" attributes the action of the Pirirakau to the maladminis tration of the Native Department. Miss Walmsley, formerly of Auckland, was lately married at Wanganui to W. Campbell, lately proprietor of the Empire Hotel. The happy event appears to have excited considerable imblic attention.

The funeral of the late Mr Win. Marlin took place this afternoon. The procession started from the house of deceased in Hobson-street, exactly at three o'clock, preceded by the Naval Band, of Avhich deceased had been bandmaster for a number of years. About thirty mourners, and thirty members of the brigade fol lowed. The funeral service was impres sively read by Father O'Dwyer.

OBSTRUCTION TO WYNYARD PIER. —DEPUTATION TO THE HON. F. WHITAKER.

A DEPUTATION consisting of Mr Yon der Hyde, Dr. Campbell, Rev. Mr Nelson, and M essrs Tole.M. H. R., Judge Feuton,the Hon. \V. Chamberlin,Messrs. Rochefort, Hughes, Fernandez, and others, waited upon the Hon. the Attorney-General this morning, on the subject ofjthe interruption and means of passage to the above Pier. Mr Tole was chosen spokesman, and introduced the deputation. He drew attention to the pro tracted absence of (he Engineer in Chief, Mr Carruthcrs,Avhom it was expected would have ere this taken steps to make a crossing to the jetty. In answer to the objection of danger to the public, Mr Tole replied that the proposed crossing at the foot of the Parncll gradient would be still more danger ous. He had always believed that the safest plan Avould be to erect a foot bridge, which could be done at a cost of about £350. Dr Campbell quite concurred in this course. The Hon. Mr Whitaker asked if the depu tation would be prepared to pay extra cost over £350, if required. Mr Tole had no doubt such a sum could be easily raised. Mr Fenton preferred to be responsible. After further conversation, Mr Whitaker suggested to Mr Tole to Avrite him a letter embodying the proposals of the deputation, and he would forward it with a recommen dation to the hon. Minister of Public Works. The hon. Mr Chamberlin here suggested that much delay Avould be saved if the Hon. the Attorney-General and Resident Minister would direct the Avork to be at once proceeded with. The Hon. Mr Whitaker, in reply, said he Avas unable to adopt such a suggestion, which might be deemed a departmental interference, besides possibly leading to confusion. Mr Tole having consented to communicate by letter, as previously requested, then tendered the thanks of the deputation to the Hon. Mr Whitaker for his kind consideration of their representations, after which the deputation withdrew.

Dunedin Cup.

LATEST BETTING.

The following list of quotations on the Dunedin Cup has been received from Dunedin this morning by Mr E. Perkins: — 100 to 16 agst Templeton 100 to 43 agst Fishhook 100 to 12 agst Hippocampus 100 to 12 agst Puriri 100 to 12 agst Guy FaAvkes 100 to 8 agst PungawereAvere 100 to 7 agst Titania 100 to 7 agst Elfin King 100 to 6 agst Stirabout. 100 to 6 agst Stormbird 100 to 6agst Cloth of Gold

AUCKLAND STOCK AND MINING REPORT.

Bank of New Zealand—Buyers, £19 15s ; sellers, £20. National Bank—Buyers. 655. Colonial Bank (40s paid up)— Buyers, 395. Thames Gas Co.—Buyers, 21s. South British Insurance—Sellers, 80s. National Insurance—3ls; sellers. 325. New Zealand Insurance—Sellers, 92s 6d. Union Sash and Door Co. (old issue)— Buyers. £8; do. (neAv), 80s; sellers 80s. Bed Queen—ls 9d, 2s , buyers.ls 9d ; sellers, 2s. Caledonian (dble.)—Buyers, 265. Moanatairi—£6 10s, £7 7s 6d ; buyers, £7 5s ; sellers, £7 10s. Waitekauri—l3s 6d; buyers, 13s. Alburnia—Sellers, 2_s 6ch Welcome—Buyers, is ; sellers, Is 6d. Kuranui Hill—Buyers, 16s; sellers, 17s 6d. Coromandel—2s 3d ; sellers, 2s 6d. JOSEPH NEWMAN, Chairman.

THE "GLOBE" AND SPIRITUALISM.

(To the Editor of the Evening Star). Sir,—We have had what the "Globe" says about Spiritualism, and the opinion of Dr. Winslow (AVhoever he may be), ad nauseam. This said neAvspaper partly admits the " fact," that Spiritualism is making rapid strides all over the globe s but what Dr. Winslow so ' frankly declares," is a gross perA rersion of the truth, and Avhen truth becomes important and runs counter to men's opinions, then truth becomes a cause of offence, and subjected to slander and persecution. No doubt'a certain percentage of Spiritualists will become insane, because they possess the ill-faA'Oured organism leading thereto; according to the newspapers Moody and Sankey have made many lunatics andAvo Avould question Dr. W. or any other man "if many lunatics have not been made so by their Christian belief ?" Are there no "unfor given sin " lunatics, and " beyond redemption " lunatics, and "secondadvent" lunatics? Before Spiritualism Avas heard of.there were thousands of lunaticß—good, sound, Christian lunatics. HaA-e you no recollection of a police case a few years ago, of a Sunday-school teacher.a member of the most wealthy and influential church in Auckland. Avho burnt the hands and arms of the child of her adoption with a red-hot poker, in ordor that a "naughty" girl might "be good," by having in advance a practical taste of the pangs of hell-fire. In conclusion, I defy you to produoe a solitary instance of madness caused by Spiritualism, but if you will devote a column of your Saturday's supplement to the subiect of " Keligious Mrt.nia," I will undertake to supply the same, with extracts that will extend many weeks, foi- the instruotion oi your readers.- Hwi &a.» _ (Q. W»"-N9\vt<»., mmk J?, %,

EDEN COUNTY COUNCIL.

PARNELL MEETING TO-NIGHT. The ratepayers of Parnell will meet to night in the Parnell Hall, to express their opinion in regard to the question of hang ing up the Counties Act, This is the meeting which Avas temporarily burked by a sudded change of venue to the Nevvmar ket Hall, Avhere, hoAvever, tho unmistakable condemnation of the Act Avas a very different result from that anticipated by the conveners of the meeting. We trust the ratepayers will muster in force this evening, and will give the erring Council tors a piece of their mind. To-morrow evening a meeting Avill be held in St. David's school-room, top of iSymonds-street, at half-past seA-en o'clock, in the words of the advertisement, "To protest against County Councillors forcing an Act on the mass of the people against their wishes, and teach them that they can not promise one thing and act the contrary.

CABLEGRAMS.

[PRESS AGENCY.]

RUSSIA'S CONDITIONS FOR DEMO BILIZATION.

LORD DERBY'S CONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE. LONDON, March 12. THE English Cabinet are considering a proposal of Russia, AA-hich is to the effect that if the European PoAvers will sign a protocol urging the Conference programme, Russia will act Avith them, and demobilise her army. Lord Derby has promised an early decision. March 14. It is reported that Lord Derby has re plied to the proposal of Russia that Eng land accepts the principle of the proposal, but amends the protocol, avoiding phrases •which Avould bind her future action. Peace has been restored in the Transvaal Republic.

NEW ZEALAND LOAN AND MER CANTILE COMPANY (Limited), PRODUCE TELEGRAM.

LONDON, March 14. Wools.—The sales progress flatly. Com petition is decrea.. ing and quotations are on an average lid to 2d lower than at the opening. The" principal decline has been in crossbred, medium and inferior greasy, medium inferior Avanhed, and scoured. The home trade are purchasing sparingly. The continental demand is poor. Up to date 150,000 bales have bnen sold.

Russian Proposal Confirmed.

General Jlgnatieff- SYDNEY~THIS DAY. Arrived : Rotorua. LONDON, March 16. The report as to Lord Derby's reply to Russia is confirmed. Count Schouvaloff received the amendn. ent ad referendum, and awaits orders from Russia. General Ingnatieff is hoaa- in London. The Porte has rejected the Montenegro C mditions.

POLICE COURT—This Day.

(Before W. Willcox and G. P. Pierce, Esquires, J.IVs) Dtt'NKEN.VES.s. —James Jackman, Jos. Martin, and Joseph Harrison Avere charged Avith drunkenness, and fined 5s each. Christopher Gorrie (4th offence), with his face terribly cut, Avas sentenced to seven days' imprisonment with hard labour for drunkenness. Vagrants.—Francis Conway, Benjamin West, MichaelMullins, and Patrick Murphy Avere brought up nnder the Vagrant Act, with having no lawful A-isible means of employment. Conway, an old man, was committed to prison for one year. West i denied he charge; the aa tvs in work on Saturday last. DetectiAe Jeffrey knew the prisoner, and arrested him on Saturday night, in a beastly state of drunkenness. He Avas essentially a loafer and a pest, and had no settled home. His statement about Avork was false. Detective Grace corrobo rated. Prisoner Avas a confirmed drunkard, and Avas the constant associate of thieves. Prisoner said he had been tAventy-seven years in the colony, and was not a rogue nor a vagabond; he could proA Te by a witness that he was in Avork on Saturday. The Bench adjourned the case until to morroAA-, in order that prisoner might shew to the satisfaction of the Bench that he had visible means, &c. Michael Murphy also denied the soft impeachment ; he was a thorough mechanic.—Detective Grace de posed that the prisoner Avas a notorious thief, and had but recently came out of prison ; he had stolen a quantity of bacon from a settler at Papatoitoi.—Prisoner : Hoav do you know I stole the bacon.— Detective : Because you neA rer do any Avork, and Avhenever you have any money, I feel sure that you do not get it honestly.—Detecti\re Jeffrey deposed that prisoner avus one of the worst thieves in Auckland.—Prisoner said he A\ Tas a first class bootmaker, and Avell-known at the Thames, and other places as a man of irre proachable character ; certainly he had been in Mount Eden, but then other fine felloAvs congregated there.—The Bench referred to a long list of convictions against prisoner, and sentenced him to one year's imprison ment. | Stealing Peter's Boots. — Patrick Murphy, alias Nagle, Avas charged aa-ith steal ing Peter Smith's boots, value 155., on the 17th instant.—The old man pleaded not gupty.—Sub-Inspector Pardy said that the prisoner Avas a Avell-knoAvn thief, and Avas seen on Mr. Smith's premises, and after he left the boots Avere missing.—Remanded for a Aveek in order that the police might trace the boots if possible. Threatening a Wife.—William Addey was charged with using threatening language toAvards May Addey, on the 17th inst.—Defendant pleaded guilty, but Avas extremely sorry.—Mr Tyler appeared for the complainant, and said that Mr Addey Avas habitually drunk, and his Avife Avas continually subjected to degrading cruelty from her husband, and desired the protec tion of the Court.—May Addey, deposed that she resided in Ponsonby, and kept a school in Avhich Avere being educated forty or fifty young ladies. On Saturday last she Avas obliged to send for a constable, as her husband and another drunken man, had turned her young ladies out of the house ; he told her he Avould do for her, and a month ago, Avhile in a state of delirium tremens he tried to strangle her by seizing her by the throat, and saying "Pllhave your life." On another occasion he threat ened to smash her skull. She had been suffering in this Avay for four years, and she was compelled to take this step for her per sonal safety.— Defendant : Have I not been kind to you and the children ?—Complain ant : No, you have not (bursting into tears.) Constable Burke, of Freeman's Bay, deposed that he Avas sent for by Mrs Addey and on going to the house, he found Mr Addey fast asleep on the sofa ; he saAv Mr Addey m a state of drunken madness on the previous night, stripped in his shirt sleeves, and threatening to smash some body.—Defendant said he had nothing to say further.—The bench said it was useless lecturing defendant, as he was well aware that lie had done Avrong, but they felt that some steps Avere necessary for the protection of us wife. He must therefore find sureties *Pif ?_ P4n_ pCa _c. fOV twGlvo n,ottths. Wm ir_T,73 £ nd two; sl^etios in £100 each. w-.r UAN-m BoY'\- Jose _>h Kilfoyle and WOUpi Thorny Jmw we.re, fawtjM with

escaping from the Naval Th__ZT_\ on the 17th inst.ant.-The bov_l^H ran aAvay because the bi__ fi r kT 4 % them.-Sub-Inspector PardyiiH. H were neAv recruits, and were notvJ■ < ™oji in their exercise.—J esser promised pette«t run aAvay again, and Kilfoyle -mmtJs *° to his mother at WellingW--S6d J t o So to the school. urdf*ed_4 A Dark Night.—Phillip Tnm_ J summoned for not havin_ hi. !_._ w a« I and affixed to his cart on the S Sft 10th instant.-Phillip 6a i d he wTin «* Sub-Inspector Pardy said it walMfe case of a cart having no lieht a_ «. .^ side.-The Bench : You know mif* have had a light, Aye presume Uff 1 Yes, your Worships, but on coim n _T p: the hill tho lamp got broken, anTffe Avent out.—Fined Is. and costs. gllt

SUPREME COURT.-This Day

BANKRUPTCY.

RE TUDEHOPE. A meeting of creditors in the estat* John Tudehopc, grocer, oi Grey-street _ held this morning. The bankrupt's __«_? ties Avere about £1300, assets £600 iw" Thos. Macffarlane Avas appointed tru_t PP KE ELLIOTT. '

The meeting of creditors in the e<stat of George Joseph William Elliott was _l journed until to-morroAV. ™"

KE ADAMS. The meeting of creditors in the eslat of William Adams, publican, of Upnet Queen-street, was adjourned until \Vprir_! day, the 21st inst. weß*

REPORTED QUARREL BETWEEN THE MAYOR AND COUNCILLOR DICKSON.

IT is consoling to our dignity and to that reputation for severe respectability which has been the glory of the Auckland Civic Crown, to knoAv that nothing Avorse has happened to spoil the perennial bloom of Mayoral majesty than a cruel hoax, pern e . trated on our immaculate morning contemporary. Although His Worship the Mayor and Councillor Dickson had a quiet discussion, partaking more of the character of chaff than of the bellum punitirum graphically described in to-day's "Herald" the city will feel profoundly relieved upon knoAving that Councillor Dickson harboured no hostile thoughts in relation to His Worship's visage, and the animosity of the Mayor, on the other hand, was not of a kind that left any reason for anticipat ing a' disturbance of the entente cordiale subsisting betAveen the two gentlemen. In point of fact, the "altercation," and "re crimination," and "terrier-like firmness" and " charges of spiteful and personal ill. will," recounted by the " Herald" this morning as having passed between the Mayor and Councillor Dickson, are a pure myth, which some Avag successfully i_. posed on a verdant member of the " Herald" staff. The Avhole story hangs on sucht slender thread that it is hardly Avorti referring to. On Friday afternoon, just about five o'clock, the Mayor found Coun. cillor Dickson Avriting alone in the City Surveyor's office. It may be remembered that the custody of the plans in this room had been the subject of a motion by Coun cillor Dickson. The Mayor, half chaffingly questioned Mr.- Dickson's right to be there, asserting that he ought to stand outside the room, like any other ratepayer. Air Dickson maintained that ne had as much right in the room as the Mayor had, at the same time, hoAvever, explaining that Mr. Ander son had made an appointment Avith him there for five o'clock, and he Avas aAvaiting that gentleman's arrival. The story in the " Herald," that " tempers Avere lost, things Avere said which should haA re been left un said, and at last Councillor Dickson's feel ings overcame his better judgment, and he dealt one or more bloAvs at the Mayor, or, as the statement made Avas, ' punched his Worship's head,'" is simply untrue. The discussion did not pass the mildest conver sational bounds, nor last a couple of minutes. The Mayor left Councillor Dickson still writing, and Mr. Anderson, avlio shortly afterAvards arrived, confirmed the statement that Mr. Dickson was there by appointment just after office hours, to settle a little matter of business. Councillor Dickon, Aye learn, feels aggrieved at the charge of haA _ng created a braAvl in the city offices, and has instructed Messrs Russell and Devore to sue our contemporary for libel, but mutual explanations and apologies "will no doubt still the troubled Avaters.

ACCIDENT AT NEWMARKET.

On Saturday night Avhen the Onehunga buss was passing through Newmarket a number of youth's were playing in the street, when one of them, to escape hi» companions, ran right in front of the buss. The pole struck him on the side, and turned, him right over in an instant. The driver pulled up and happily prevented Avhatmight have been a A rery serious accident. As it was, the lad got off Avith a few light braises. One of the horses trampled upon his hand. Too much praise cannot be given to Mr Reid, the driver, for the promptitude and presence of mind he displayed iv pulling up his horses so quickly.

THE MOANATAIRI MINE.

ANOTHER MAGNIFICENT HAUL OF

SPECIMENS.

The folloAving telegram Avas to-day received from the mine manager, by Mr F. A. White, the legal manager of the Moanatairi G.M.C:—"Six cwt of specimens broken doAvn this morn ing. Splendid shoAv in the face. The run lengthened one foot six inches." On this news being published on Change a further rise in the price of the shares took place. During the morning £7 was the ruling price, but there Avere feAV sellers at that.

H.M. CUSTOMS V. CAPTAIN MOFFAT AND MR. GOUK.

(To the Editor of the Evening Stab.) Sir.—After reading your very sensible leader Ofl Saturday night, I asked myself the question, " What obiect can the Customs have in getting up such cases?" I have heard of an expert official discovering a private still and receiving? part of the fine inflicted on the offender as Mi reAvard. And I think it is quite right and on' j fair to honest dealers that such illicit trarno should be put down, and that the detecting officer should be reAvarded. But here is a'case Avhei _ there Avas no intention Avilfully to aefr aufc and it Avas Avell enough known on the v /barf that the harmonium had been landed 'in the most open Avay. There could be no ere dit doe to any particular officer for detect' .ntf ma offence. Can you tell me if it is true' that in* case like this the fines, or a per cent/ .ge of m fines, are distributed among the Custonw officials?—l am, etc., Enquirer.- -Auckland) March 19,1877.

Kaipara Shipping.

(From our own Corke-spondent.)

KAIPARA HE ADS. The topsail schooner Kr_huna arrived on Thursday, and passed U7j to Te Kopuru. No amvals or departures since my last-

HELENSVILLE.

March 18. I The Pakeha, Captain Home, arrived' from Dunedin on Saturday. The £Wr reports a rapid run up to the bar, °v^£jz detained outside for nearly a week, ow will load baulk timber at Messrs P. ana tf< McLeod's for Dunedin. ~ -.„,, A ball in honour of St. Patrick's m >va§ mwM by the. oUte t»| &« W«|

THE EVENING STAR, MONDAY, MARCH 19, 1877.



TMPOU N D E D at the Mount Eden Pound, on the 10th instant, one. Dark Brindle Bull, for trespass. If not claimed within eleven days will be sold to defray expenses. A. CROCKET, Poundkeeper/ BOYS' AND MEN'S CLOTHING, STRONG TWEED FOR BOYS' WEAR FLANNEL, &C, &C. A LARGE PARCEL OF NEW GOODS JUST OPENED UP AT RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN'S, Comprising— Men's Tweed Trouser variety, from 10/6 per pair Men's Strong Tweed Suits, at 30/ sui complete Men's Superior Quality Suit 3 Paget Coats, and Boys' and Youths' Suits in variety Men's Moleskin Trousers, a really good quality, at 7/6 per pair 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 Also, 2 Bales ALL WOOL WELSH FLANNEL from 1/2 per yard New Prints, Furnishing Goods, &c. Insnection Avill prove that the above Goods a^e really cheap, the whole parcel having been exceptionally well BOCSHT in an over stocked market. _3T One Shilling in the £ returned on all pur chases of 20s. and upwards. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN, Upper Queen-street' Auckland Jjf 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, __T At a Very Great Reduction 1 Sale to Commence on SATURDAY, 3rd March. No Credit Given. Closed on Friday to Mark Down the Stock. lIORNTON, SMITH, AND FIRTH'S PRICES CURRENT (Wholesale). Sacks. 100's. 50's. CroAvn Brand Flour, £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. per ton 18 0 0 18 10 0 19 0 0 T.S.&F. Canterbury Brand 17 0 0 17 10 0 18 0 0 Seconds Flour .. .. 11 10 0 Sharps 8 10 0 Bran 6 0 0 Fowl Wheat .. .. 0 5 oto ss. 6d. The above prices include sacks and bags; sacks and bags not returnable. Terms: Cash. Auckland. February 14.1877. YJXURfIITURE! FURNITURE Ladies and Gentlemen about to Furnish are respect fully requested to inspect the Large Stock of DR ._ WING - ROOM, DINING -ROOM BEDROOM, AND GENERAL HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, In our New and Spacions Showrooms. T. & ILCOOKE, 67, QUEEN-STREET Adioinina Bank of New Zf.aUiu.it Luxuriant and Beautiful Hair. — Use " Sharland's Tricophero." It increases growth, removes dandritf". gives a gloss, and stimulates the roots, and produces flowing locks of silken hair. Beautifully perfumed, and clean in its _se. Price, 2s. a bottle. ___ Siiarland & Co., opposite Post-office, Auckland. Atkinson's Perfumerat and Specialities. Although the law has been frequently and successfully invoked against the counterfeiters of Ldolpho Wolfe's Schiedam aromatic Schnapps, their cupidity has again overcome their prudence. Imitations of this famous me dicinal beverage are being put up by unprinci pled parties in empty bottles of the genuine article, and the labels imitated. Be cautious, purchasers. T._e Medical Profession nave declared Stean_o's Superlative Aromatic Tonic Wine to be a necessity to all in search of health, and especially tt>' those suffering either from Incipient or Chrome Indigestion, Dyspepsia, and the dis orders arising therefrom. This Tonic is also particularly reconx'nended to all who are in a measure compelled .from the nature of their occupation to take stiitt.alants, and at the same time arc desirous of studying health by taking that which will act most Beneficially on the system. Mr. Wm. Johnson, Government Analy tical Chemist, report: - ".I have examined Steane's Superlative Aromatic Tram \f/)ne, and find it to be remarkably pleasant in flavour, con taining about 16 per cent, of a very pure alconoi, and holding in solution a clear wholesome, Vegetable Bitter, combined with a.fruity spicy aroma. I consider this Bitter a very superior article, "-Suidi.. aU _68__ti_-Pfß PH «W __ I



MUTUAL LIFE ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALASIA. Incorporated by Act of Parliament. NEW ZEALAND BRANCH: Head Office, Auckland. Local Director: George Burgoyne Oaven, Esq. (Messrs. OAven and Graham.) Principal Medical Officer: Charles Field Goldsbro', Esq., M.D. General Agent for New Zealand : William T. J. Bell. With Sub-Agencies in all the Principal Tewns. Every information on tho subject of LIFE ASSURANCE ANNUITIES, and ENDOW MENTS FOR CHILDREN, afforded by J. A. Lowe. Travelling Agent to the Association ; or WH.LIAM T. J. BELL, General Agent. S__ Special Features.— Age admitted on Policies, which are unchallangable from date of issuf.. Lowest Rates of Premiums, and no hamper ing conditions as to residence or occupation.