SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

rrt ,., t .„„„ i This Afternoon. 11.57 HIGH WATKR—j To . morrow jjiopaing, 0.12 SUN SET.—This Evening. 6.25 ST t'l\ RISE.—To-morrow Morninar, 0.2 ■ MOON'S AGE.—Last Quarter, 30th. 2 am.

ARRIVALS.

Trelcvan Family, brigantine, 11. Brown, from

Adelaide. Flo-a brigantine, Roderick, from Lyttelton. Acadia schooner. McDonald, from Wangaroa. Kriemhilda schooner, McKinnon, from Wan-

garoa. Faiiiij" Ke'.ir, ketc!). from Wangaroa. Cabarfeiab, barque. McKenzie. from Newcastle. To-day Ryno. brigantine, iiower, from Suwarrow.

DEPARTURES.

Go-ahead, s.s., Helandcr, for Gisborne. Kate McGregor, schooner, Morgan, for Lyttel- Taupo, a.?., Carey, fcr Russel!.

IMPORTS.

Per OabarfeHh, from Newcastle: i>W tons coals. 10 tons ooke.- D. n. McKenzie, agent. Per Trelevan Family, from Adelaide: 1.000 bag 3 flour, TOO do wheat, SO do bark, 2 washing machines.—Henderson and Maofarlane, agents. Per Rvao. from Suwarrow :—3 tons shell, 4'J tens copra.—Henderson and Macfaviane agents.

iBRIT ' L OF THE RYXO. r=Tfhc 1-rfgantin* Rvno arrived early this morn fng from Suwarrow and other islands. She left Suwsrrow 23rd August, and cruised aoout amouK the islands in the vicinity of the Group. Pi-«, ?• through the Friendly Group on the ith October, thence strong westerly gales the whole of'lie ivissage. Anchored under Waiheke on Jft-iflav'last. The Rvno brings a cargo of copra anrl Patsenu-ers-Messrs H. W. Hender son" Ci T) "Onnr.eth and L. S. Dacre. ;N°RRbHv ESO-PTS FROM COLLISION. 6iTvW.ne3dar, the 2±th, at 9.20 p.m., the mail steamer Citr r.f New York was sighted.steering north Immediately after sighting her she appeared to change her course, ana stand staught for the Ryno. The captain took the wheel, all hands shouted to the steamer to keep clear, and a blue light was burnt. The steamer, on seeing the blue light, put her hei'n down, braced up the yards, and crossed one bow at I he distance of about forty yards, a voice from the steamer calling out "put out thai, light." " The Rvr.o was burning both lights, ana itTs the opinion of those on board that no watch was beine kept on the steamer, and that had the blue light not been burnt, the Ryno would have been cut down.

T;-e azents of the Famenoth announce that this vessel is on the berth for London, and that ■=ny vcDOi'tto the contrary is incorrect. Already there is secured for her a large portion of her cargo

J brigantine Flora arrived from Lyttelton yesterdayafternoon, with a cargo of potatoes ami "other Southern produce. She has had a i or! o- n?.ssai.'e of li clays. Captain Stevenson, of the s.s. Argyle. on arrive, 1, from Uoromandel on Saturday night, re raorted that the brigantine Ilyno was at anchor in Man-of-war Bar. TVeiiheke, where she had been" jammed Ei«ce Thursday last by the westerly gale. Captain Stevenson went con siderably out of his way in order togexchange signals with the Ryno. The s.s. Tarn OShanter will leave the One hnrea wharf for the Manukau Heads and Whatipu mills on Wednesday next at 5 a.m. lKie " Three-masted schooner Estelle has entered out for Me'bnurne. via. Hokianga. "The* schooner yacht Louisana was seen under doublY "reefs off Wanearuru by the Fanny Kelly on Friday last. A strong YT.S.W. gale ' The*-barque Cabavfeidh arrived yesterday morning from Newcastle with a cargo of coal. She has wade a smart run of eighty days. " Ths sale of the steamers belonging to the Auckland Steam Packet Company has been postponed for the present. Too November rime-table for the Union Steamship Company's boats will be founa on enr front pace. „ , . The schooner Kate IMcOrogor sailed tor Lri reitou on Saturday afternoon with a cargo of timber, sashes, doors, &c. Th^ =chooner Kriemhilda and the ketch Fanny Kelly arrived on Saturday night from Wangaroa with cargoes of timber. The brigantine Trelevan Family arrived from Adelaide this morning with a cargo ef wheat, four &c. Cant. Brown reports as follows :— Sailed on ther.ight of the 12th. After petting clear.oc Kangaroo Island experienced S.S.w. gale which lasted 40 hours. Had S."W. winds aero3-= till making the Three Kings on Satui-day afternoon. Strong westerly winds and heavy squalls down the "coast. The vessel anchored at half-past nine this morning. The schooner Clan Alpine, whose reported loss we recorded on Saturday, belonged to Messrs McCallur.i and McQuarrie. of this city, and. was insured for £500 in the New Zealand office. She was valiifd at £900. The ship Famenoth began to take in copra from the schooner Mary Anderson to aay. bhe i=; getting on rapidly with the unloading of her inward cargo, which ia turning out excel) *friTiillv t^'gl] "" r£YiQ ' s hip city of Auckland has finished nuttine out her bonded goods, ana nothing but salt and hardware remain on board. Three or four hundred cases of kauri gum were received at the ship's side to-day for stiffening to be pu on board before the remainder of the cargo comes out. We must congratulate Captain Rails on the really. excellent condition of his London sroods.

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 Arsryle, on Friday next,

at 2.31 p.m. _ ~ ~ For li-assell, Ka-.va Kawa,: Wangaroa, and Mon ' gonui. per lon.-7. this clay, at i p.m. For Whitiangi. Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowena. this day, at i p.m. For Nov.- Plymouth, via Vy'aitara, per Hauralu, to-morrow, at B.SO a.m. Foi- Waiwera, Kawau, Omaha, and per Anne Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Wangaroa, per Fanny Kelly, on Wednes day next, at 11 a.m. For "Russell and Kawa Kawa, per Star ef the !?<v.:t,h on Tuesday next, at 2 p.m. For Wangrarci Ketids. AVaipy, Wangarei, and Mangaijai, per Aryyle, to-»iorrow, at i p.m. For Norfolk island, per Waiwera, on Saturday next, at 11 a.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per '• "XTanaka, immediatel.r after the arrival of the BSOity of Svclney from Honolulu. For Aris+.raTian Colonies, per City of Sydney, immedinfely cfter her arrival. For Tanfan.?a, G-isborne,..Napier, Southern Pro vince?, and Australian Colonies, per Taupo, on Tuesday next, at 3 p.m. S. B. BTSS. Chief Postmaster.

BIRTH.

PURCHASE.—On the 27th October, 1877, at her residence. Chapel-streel', the wife of Mr. G. Purchase of a son.

DEATH.

ROBERTSON.—On the 2Stb October, John Robertson, aged 82 years. The funeral will leave his late residence, Queensferry Hotel, Vulcan Lane, to-morrow (Tuesday), the 30th instant, at 3 o'clock p.m. Friends will please accept this invitation. PULHAM.—On the 28th October, 1577, at her residence, Chapel-street, Francas, aged 83 years, relict of the late Captain William Pul ham, of the H.E.I.C.S. The funeral will leave her late residence on Tuesday, the 30th instant, at 3 p.m.

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

MONDAY. OCTOBER 29, 1877.

J*ss"tt« ttuise that lacks assistance, f><w the wrong that needs icsistance, Pot tke future u» the distance, A*d the good that «•»<!&

The war news to-day from our special cor respondent is confirmatory of that already received. Eighteen thousand Turkish pri soners are said to have fallen into the hands of the Russians by the recent defeat of Mukhtar Pasha's army, the right wing of which was completely cut oft" and sur rounded. A Russian report states that the garrison of Kara is negotiating for surrender. This, however, we regard as extremely im probable. There has been ample opportu nity for re-victualling the frontier Armenian fortress, although perhaps we should be safe in predicting that Ottoman supineness and maladministration, rely ing upon the recent success of the army, has] neglected this prudont precaution against a reverse. It is evident that a great disaster has befallen the Turkish cause, and although the approach of winter will probably prevent an advance on Erzeroum, there is nothing to prevent the investment of Kars. In 1555, the Russians established winter quarters commanding all the ap proaches to that garrison, which were main tained until the surrender by General Williams on the 25th of NoTc:uber. Dr Sandwith describing the Russia*; camp after the capitulation says: " T>=e men were well hutted in a warm and comfort able way, their dwelling being made almost wholly undergroui; :. with fireplaces to ensure ventilation. All the oilicers' huts were furnished with glass windows. Each soldier was warmly clad and becomingly. It was observed that the Rus sians had built a much finer city than Karri itself, and it was proposed to call it Yeni Kars, or New Kars." In Europe, the position is unaltered. Fighting goes on before Plevna with heavy slaughter, but without decisive success to either side.

LATEST Parliamentary telegrams shew that the division on Major Atkinson's want-of confidence motion, which will probably take place to-night, will be exceedingly close. Our coirespondent still estimates, however, that the Government will win by two, while the Opposition calculate upon an equal majority iv favour of ousting the Ministry. There are a certain number of doubtful votes that can only be reckoned on when members actually walk into the lobbies.

We perceive that the National Mortgage and Agency Company of New Zen land has begun business in Auckland. We refer our readers to the Company's notice in another column. Liberal advances are made on -wool. Colonial produce consigned for sale in London.

We are glad to learn that Dr. Eliis intends to repeat his excellent lecture on Michael Angelo, on November 17th, at the Choral Hall, and we would strongly advise all who missed the opportunity of hcariDg it on Friday evening to go and hear it on that occasion. The lecture is to be the first of a series of three which arc to be delivered in the Choral Jfall for the purpose of raising funds for the Scrip ture Gift Association, a most excellent institution, having for its object the religious instruction of the children attend ing the common schools in Auckland and the adjacent districts, which is, like many other excellent institutions , in urgent need of money to carry on its work. Otic of our oldest citizens, Mr John Robertson, of the Queen's Feiry Hotel, died yesterday at the ripe age of S2. Mr Robertson was a native of Scotland by birth, and lauded in .Now Zealand in 18-10. lie left the old country with a vie 1---- of settling iv New South Wales, but not liking the climate, he left Sydney with Captain Hobsorj for this land, and rwudul some months in the Bay of Islands, from whence ho removed to Auckland in the year above mentioned, where he lias persued the " even tenor of his way " for 37 years. Mr Robertson was widely known in ' the province, and was a man of abstemious habits. He was particularly fond of his cigar, and nothing pleased him better than a chat about old faces and old times. He took his daily walks as regularly as possible, and his tottering form and silvery head will be missed Iry those accustomed to meet him in his local rambles. Mv Robertson leaves a grown up family behind him. The funeral will take place to-morrow afternoon at three o'clock.

The Naval Training School at Kohi marama was visited by Mr John L. Cox on Saturday, with prizes, on behalf of the Auckland Scripture Gift and Prize Associa tion. Twenty-five boys undertook the Scripture exercise given a week previous, viz., the writing out and careful repetition of the 55th chapter of Isaiah. The result was exceedingly gratifying, and reflected credit on the boys as well as on their teacher, Mr Pennal ; the average excellence of the writing produced being quite equal to the ordinary city schools. In those few instances where early disadvantages had prevented the chapter given was equally Avcil repeated. Captain and Mrs Breton shewed a kindly interest in the object, and as soon as the funds of the Association will allow, something further will be done on behalf of the lads of this Institution.

In reference to the N. Z. Hymnal, about ■which there was a long debate in the last Synod, Archdeacon Matinsell informed his congregation at St. Mary's yesterday morn ing that, -having compared it with other compilations, he considered it to be, for its size, as good as any that has as yet appeared; and that therefore no alteration of the book of words would be made at St. Mary's ; that a supply of Prayer-boods and N.Z. Hymnals bound together would, in the course of a month or so, arrive from England, which being superior in binding to any books as yet ordered by the Standing Committee, will make good presents for Christmas. In the matter of music, however, they will bind themselves to the use of no book, and if any member of the congregation admired any particular book of music, and will send 24 copies for the use of the choir, they will be happy to use it, if the choir master approve of it. We have much pleasure in cicknow ledging £1 from Dr. Kenderdine in aid of Mrs Tapsell, widow of the water-policeman "»vho lost his life in the public service. The Government have as yet, we believe, done nothing for the widow, notwith standing the circumstances under which her late husband sustained the injuries which led up to his death. We can hardly believe that if the matter were properly represented such a claim would be ignored. The annual tea-meeting and soiree in connection with the Newton Congregational Sunday-school will be held to-morrow even ing, in Edinburgh-street. J. C. Firth, Esq. will preside, and addresses will be delivered by lievs W. Tinsley, J. Robertson, and Messrs Larkins and Wood. '"' n

The anniversary service of St. Luke's Church, Mount Albert, will be held on Thursday next, in the Church, on which occasion the ReT. E. C. Stuart, 8.A., Bishop elect of Waiapn, will preach the sermon. As this -will probably be the last opportunity of hearing the Bishop elect, who is on eloquent as well as a practical pracher, in the localities around Mount Albert the settlers will take the opportuuity of hearing him.

The Masons of Auckland hare fixed upon the eveuing of St. Andrew's Day for the holding of their grand annual ball, for which great preparations are being made. They have alreaey called for tenders for the siipply of refreshments for the festive occasion.

A number of Volunteers met for practice on Saturday afternoon at the Mount Eden range ; distances,£2oo, 400, and 500 yards, with the following results : —Sub-Lieut. Connolly, 61 ; Vol. Bowden, 61 ; Vol. Dore, 55 ; Vol. McCarthy, 51 ; Vol. Elliott, 49; Vol. McLean, 47 ; Vol. Hen derson, 44 ; Vol. Rose, 43 ; Capt. White, 41 ; Vol. Alderton, 40 ; Vol. Mears, 40 ; Vol. Brabazon, 3S ; Corpl. Duff, 37; Vol. Watson, 36; Colour-Sergt. Finlay, 34; Vol. G. Partington, 34; Vol. W. Par tiiMon, 31 ; Sergt. Sweet, 28 j Vol. Theo. Fairs, 19 ; Vol. Stanly, 18.

To the Editor : Sir, —Will you kindly state, in Monday evening's paper the shortest passage on record from Liverpool to New York ; and also, if possible, the shortest passage made by the Persia ?— Yours! &c, Nautilus.—[The White Star steamship Germanic, Capt. C. W. Kennedy, arrived iv the Mersey from New York on April 30th of the present year, thus completing a voyage which is likely to be loug remembered and referred to. On the outward passage she left Queenstown on Friday, Sth April, and landed her passengers in New York on the following Friday, having made the run in tho unprecedented]}- short time of 7 days, 11 hours, .37 minutes, mean time. The shortest passages on record previously were those of her sister ship the Brittanic— outwards, 7 days 13 hours 11 minutes, and homewards, 7 days |12 hours 41 minutes. The Germanic, injcompliance{}with the rule of the White Star Company, followed the southerly course (Maury's "lane" route for that season, the total distance run having been 2,830 knots, equal to 3,257 miles, or an average of over 378 knots per dajr, or 15f knots per hour ; that is, over 435 miles per dny, or 18 miles an hour. On one day she ran no less than 410 knots (472 miles), and on two other daya 406 and 402 knots respectively. Throughout the pas sage the weather rras fine and clear, with north and north-easterly winds prevalent. "We do not know the Peraia's shortest time. —Ed. E.S.].

The Turkish Minister furnishes the following, which settles Osman Pasha's identity : " In view of the various accounts in circulation about the origin of Osman Pasha, the Turkish Legation has the honor to inform the Press that the Marshal of that name was born in Asia Minor, of Mussulman parents."

In the " Waka Maori" debate, Dr Willis said: "The justification of the Govern ment (regarding the printing of the " Waka Maori'") has as much relevancy to the charges as an answer n school-boy once gave to me had to a question I put to him. I was examining a school-boy in reading and spelling. lie said his lessons, and, glancing at the book, I asked him a question in spelling. I said. "My good boy, spell Thursday." He upelt it in every possible way that was wrong—Thirsday, Thorsday, and in every way but the right. "Well. I spelt it over to the little boy, and told him it was " Thursday." He looked up, and said " Oh, I beg your pardon, I thought it was Friday you meant all the time." A meetiHg of colonial-born shots, pre paratory to the coming international con test, was held on Saturday evening in the Driil-shed, Captain "White in the chair. After some discussion the following Avere elected to form ::he team :—Vol. McLean, carbine champion (Naval Brigade); Vol. Dore, (No. 3); Vol. George Partington, (Engineers); Coiporal W. Partington, (No. 3); Vol. E. R. Partington, (No. 3); Gunner Ko.se, (Artillery); Capt. White, (Engineer Cadets); aud Vol. Bowden, (Victoria Com pany). The proposed badge of distinction, beautifully designed, was introduced by Vol. Duff, and approved by all present. The design was it shield vii blue ground, on each side were gold-worked fern leaves, and silver stars representing the Southern Cross. Mr Jackson, of Hamilton West, adver tises that lie has opened a private boarding house, no.ir the now J>;mk buildings, at ■which travellers are received at any hour on arrival of steamer.

A story is toM, says "Truth," of a defunct baronet, little acquainted with the company in which he found himself at a ball given by the English Ambassador in Paris, observing to a melancholy-looking man behind |ii door, " Its devilish dull."'

"So it is," said the other, " but you can go away and [ can't.'1 It was the Am bassador himself !

Upon excessive charges for porterage at Ouehunga,Mr Robinson, of Remuera, writes ; " Sir, —Having *cen a friend of mine oil' in the Ilawea from Onehunga, we left Auck land by passenger train for steamer. On our arrival at Onchunga there was an express backed in to take our luggage to the steamer, and to our surprise, for one small box, one carpet-bag, and saddle, which we could have carried ourselves, I had to fork out 2s Gd. I spoke to the so called porter, and he told us he gets his authority from Mr McDonald. A nice little thing for the railway, sir. Can you inform me whether passengers are com pelled to pay that exorbitant price by the .Railway Regulations? If we are, the sooner it is altered the better." [Our cor respondent is not compelled to employ any particular porter, and any permit from the railway is just worth the paper it is written on. Ed. E.S.]

At the Cambridge Show, the dish of but ter which was awarded first prize had on it no number, and at the time our report was telegraphed in the owner's name had not transpired. The ticket had blown away, and it was subsequently found that the prize had been won by Mr "VV. K. Carter, the popular coach proprietor of the district. Mr Carter had never intended competing, but, hearing some rather tall talk as to the unparalleled quality of the talkers' butter, he in fun determined to go in and "whip the lot of 'em," and he went and churned and won. While referring again to the Show, it should be mentioned that Mr Percival's greyhound bitch won first prize, not merely commendation. Mr E. B. Walker the second prize, and Mr H. A. C. Fergusson received the commendation. Mr Jas. "Wallace, of Papatoitoi, in addition to other prizes named, received the £1010s, champion prize for ewe Hoggetts. Messrs Maclean and Co. took from Auckland S head of stock, for which they received S prizes, five being first class. The winner of the 2nd prize for butter was, as we stated, Fitzgerald, but the maker is Miss Maggie Fitzgerald, of Pukerhnu, a young lady who can look back with satisfaction on the success of her first attempt at competing for a prize ; and who shews that, though gaining second prize for her butter, she constitutes herself a first class prize for some apprecia tive young farmer.

An exciting accident occured in High street, Christchurck, says the Lyttelton "Times." On Saturday afternoon Mi- Drake, bootmaker, was driving towards Gay's stables, Mr Cohen being with him, a light buggy, when a man named Barton, employed at Jenkins' sawmills, came along in the opposite direction with a spring dray, His attention n ras apparently diverted from his horse, for he did not heed Drake's warn ing shout, and his dray caught the point of the oft' shaft of .the buggy. The collision was a most violent one, the mare being slewed round, and the buggy turned over and completely smashed. The occupants escaped unhurt, and as they stuck to the reins, the horse plunged but little, and, beyond a few slight cuts, was uninjured.

Tho following letter from the Prince of Wales accompanied his subscription in aid of the Indian Famine fund :—" Malborough House, Pall. Mall, August 20, 1877.—My Lord, —The distressing accounts from India of the terrible famine now raging in that country, morn especially in the southern parts of India, have causod the greatest concern to the Prince of Wales. I have the honor to forward herewith a check for 500 guineas as a donation from his Royal Highness in aid of the lund now being raised by your Lordship for the relief of the sufferers. The Prince of Wales desires me to add how sincerely he trusts that your appeal to ,the public for the relief of our starving fellow creatures in Southern India may meet with the prompt and generous response it deserves. —I have, &c, D. M. PEOBYN, Major-General, Controller and Treasurer to his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales."

Rev. Allan W. Webb, Minister of Wellesley-street Church will re-deliver his lecture on " India," being his own personal experiences while a resident in that country at the Ponsonby school-room to-morrow (Tuesday) evening. A gentleman whose duties called kirn to the hospital this morning, was both sur prised and disgusted to find that most important requisite in a sanitary establish ment, namely, water, was conspicuous by its absence. Not a jug-full was to be had either to drink, to wash a wound, or to flush a closet. Those who are fond of anomalies may study a remarkable one here. A magnificent building is erected for cur invalids at a cost of something like twenty thousand pounds, so handsome a structure indeed that a medical man who arrived from England a few days ago said he was astounded at seeing such a splendid hos pital in the colonies. The arrangement of wards is elaborated with the utmost care ; skilful doctors are appointed to attend to the patients, an efficient staff of nnrses is kept up ; everything is done that skill and science can devise for the rapid and complete cure of those whom accident or infirmity may lodge within its walls—every thing is provided that may induce the returning of health except water. "What a notable instance of spoiling a noble ship for a ha'porth of tar. The fact is, the more remarkable because the attention of the Government has been repeatedly called to the matter by Mr Herapath, the architect. That we may not be accused of magnifying what is undeniably a great evil, we may ac well mention that there is a well attached to the building, from which water is raised to the upper floors by a small steam engine. This well to-day was qnito dry, a state in which it is found not seldom.

Mr Walker, some years ago a contractor who was unfortunate in business in Auck land, and went to New South Wales, where fortune wasmore kindly, baa returned to this city for the purpose of paying his former creditors, many of whom had altogether for gotten the liability. One of these writes :— "To the Editor of the Star : Sir,—l beg to acknowledge with thanks the receipt of £7 from Mr W. P Walker, in pajment of an old debt. I believe that Mr Walker was unfortunate in business here some years ago, and went to push his fortune in a new field, and has been so successful that he returns and honourably pays up all his creditors. I can only say that there are many in Auckland who could (if they would) do likewise.— Archakd & Brown, late of Mechanics' Bay." fjjjThegapproaching installation of D. G. M. Graham and P. G. M. Whitaker. on the 30th November, is to be followed on the evening of the same day by a Masonic ball, which is to be on a scale of splendour hitherto unattained in Auckland. A com mittee lias been appointed consisting of members from the various lodges in this district to make and carry out the necessary arrangements. The ball will take place in the Choral flail, and it is expected that the guests will number five or six hundred. The price of tickets (supplied only to Masons) to admit lady and gentleman will be one guinea ; ladies single tickets, 10s 6d. Further particulars will be duly advertised. Tenders for the supply of refreshments are now being called for. The occasion will be observed as a Masonic holiday.

We have been requested to state that Mr James, the contractor for the building of the Cambridge Farmers Club, gained the deserved respect of the Association by the courtesy with which he received their innovations on his own and his men's time, during the preparations for the Show. It i.s but justice to Mr James and his staff of workmen to state that they were stopped working at the building on the eve of finishing it, and their services obtained to prepare accommodation for the dinner; and that they were in a .body turned out, and through some oversight, no arrangement was made for their provision or entertain ment during the time the fireplaces, and other required conveniences, were in use by the Club. The latter afterwards regretted that Iho builders had been somewhat overlooked, though the latter did not appear at all disconcerted, but with philosophic patience bore the inconvenience; and on each face could be braced marks of satisfaction at the happy scenes around them.

The work of emptying the silt basins is being carried on very satisfactorily by the contractor, Mr T. Jones, who has already finished the western basin, and is about to commence on the eastern. A great public convenience is afforded by the work being principally carried on at night time.

A mile race for £10 was run in the Domain on Saturday evening, the com petitors being P. Donnelly and. Neil Whisker. The start was very even, and the iirst half of the distance was run at a middling pace. In the last quarter both men made a good spurt, but Whisker was too much for his antagonist, who suffered defeat by thirty 01 forty yards. To the.Editor : Sir, —The editorial WE of your contemporary is surely a now chum. When he talks of remembering only 3 older citizens than our late friend Mr Robertson. I can at this moment count 14 without stretching my memory amongst them.— Yours &c., X.

Having been laid up with rheumatism and unable to walk at all, I was recom mended to try the Turkish baths. I was accordingly taken down in my cart on Saturday morning, and the proprietor promised to cure me in three days, but to my great joy one visit proved sunicient.and I was able to walk home when I came out. —Yours, etc., Peter Gardner, Mount Eden.—October 26, 1877.—[Advt.]

A number of the votaries of Apollo, re siding iv this city, have projected a varied entertainment, to take place in the Lome street hall, on the first evening in Novem ber, for the benefit of Mrs Coughlan and her fatherless children, who are in very destitute circumstances. The members of the Hibernian Band have consented to play a number of musical selections on the occasion. Mr O'Hare, the favourite comic, will give a couple of his soul-stirring melodies. Messrs Bertie and Rice will appear in their unrivalled nautical horn pipe, and double songs and dances ; this is their first appearance in Auckland since their return from the Celestial Empire. Mr James Howden, the exquisite flutist and humouristic singer, will sing two or more songs ; Mr T. Smart will give a number of Dutch delineations, and character songs ; Mr R. T. Hill will give an original local recitation, written expressly for the occasion, and which is a rhyme of considerable merit. Mr and Mrs Masters, Messrs 11. Palmer, Lonergan, and Gibbons, and Miss Olive will also take part in the entertainment. The whole will melt into a select dance. As this entertainment is for the alleviation of a widow and family in real distress it should be largely patronised. Several Maoris in Taranaki subscribed £1 each to the Indian Famine Fund.

Mr Nimmo, a rigid teetotaller, at a Parliamentary dinner in Melbourne, refused even to pass the wine. The result of it was tbat|he had quite a collection of bottles at his end of the table, while those who sat at a little distance from him could ,not get a glass of wine,

Thatcher says that Levy is the Colorado Beetle of the profession—he leaves so little behind foi other reapers of the theatrical harvest.

CABLEGRAMS.

Latest War NeT?s..

18,000 Prisoners in Asia.

Reported Negotiations for

Surrender of Kars

Fighting at Plevna.

(FROM OUR SPECIAL LONDON

CORRESPONDENT.)

LONDON.

October 19

Eighteen thousand Turkish, prisoners were captured in Asia, in the recent engagements with Mukhtar Pasha's army.

Russian reports state that negotia tions for the surrender of Kars by the Turkish garrison are proceeding.

There has been renewed slaughter at Plevna, the result being still indecisive.

WHERE DOES THE DUST COME FROM?

(To the Editor.) Sir, —Will you kindly allow a snbscriber room to say a word or two about watering our city, now we hare plenty of water, and our authorities are in no way timid about telling us how they intend us to pay for it. Where does the dust come from that is such a nuisance to. our main thorough fares ? I say unhesitatingly from the ridges that surround our city ; I mean Symond street, Karangahape Road, Eobson street, Drake - street, and the bay, &c, and down reJ - street, L Tpper Queen - street, Wakeneld - street and then Wellesly-street; Drake-street and Victoria-street last perhaps, and worst of all, from the fact the wind draws up out of the bay, sweeping Drake-street all the way, and finding its outlet in Victoria-street, and down to Queen-street. The present winds are singularly illustratire of thi3 fact. Such being so, why do not our city authorities begin at the proper place with their watering ? And why not employ a few unemployed, say from 5 a.m., to 8 p.m., as in most decent towns at home, where you find your street watered by the time you open your shop —and not as now. When the mischief is done, the hoseman appears at one or two solitary corners,'enough to show there is water. A word to wise men is enough. With most profound respect for the powers that be.—Ratepayer.

Fire at Wairoa.

STORE AND DWELLING HOUSE

DESTROYED,

[BY TELEGRAPH.]

(FROM OUR OWX CORRESPONDENT.)

Drury, Sunday evening. Mr Audus RAYKES 1 grocery and pro vision store was totally destroyed by lire this morning. Everything was destroyed, Mr and Mrs Raynes having barely time lo escape. The whole of the furniture and clothing were destroyed. Mr Kaynes was only partially insured in the South British Company for £550.

Mr • Raynes purchased the store and ground aoout four months ago. He had just worked up a business, and only last week sent up £200 worth of new goods, and a fortnight ago furnished the house. The building was insured for £150 and the stock for £400. ADDITIONAL PARTIGULAS. About twenty past twelve, Mr Kayn.es, who was just getting into bed, heard a noise in the store. On opening his bed room door into the passage, he discovered . the whole sh"p in flames. He immediately returned and removed Mrs Rayaes and children who were in bed, and so rapidly : did the lire extend that not an article of clothing could be got out. Mrs Raynes j and the children in their night clothes , found shelter at the house of their nearest neighbour, Mr Wilson. Mr George Hoge, settler, who waa stopyjing in the house, was also barely able ito escase after being aroused jby Mr Raynes, and lost all his clothes. The store was closed at eleven o'clock, and about twelve Mr Raynes shut the store door when everything appeared to be sale. He can form no idea how the fire origi nated, or whether it began on the drapery or grocery side of the store. ' There was a strong wind at the time, and ; the building was reduced to ashes in half i an-hour. Absolutely nothing was saved. I The building was put up three years ago, i and Mr Saynes estimates his loss at £300 j £400 in excess of the amount insured.

THEATRE ROYAL.

"The Octoroon," a performarce with which the Auckland play-gcers are familiar, was pro duced on Saturday evening, by Mr Whoatleish and his company, in the Theatre Royal. The Hibernian Band played merrily outside before the lifting of the curtain, and attracted thousands of gazers, and had but half of that moving multi tude congregated within, Mr Wheatleigh would hare been amply satisfied with the return. The principal character, " Scuader," was a master piece of acting, and well merited the applause it won from the house. Miss Tilly Andrews, as the interesting " Zoe," formed a delightful picture. Mr Belton appeared as the India.ii, Mr Melville as "Jacob," mail his coarseness, and Mr Verner as " Peyton." Mr Soarle was successful as Sunnyside, not a difficult representation, but exhibited fairly by Mr Searle. Mr Leopold, as Uncle Pete, was excellont, and worthy cf con. mendation. The "Quadroon" was impersonated by Miss Nelly Daly in a very truthful manner. This evening an entire and agreeable change Avill take place in the order of things, and Miss MAEY LODUSKI i rOUNG Will make her first appearance before an Auckland public in the new sensational drama of " Strathmore," a play of special interest, in five acts. Misa Young takes the leading character oi the roll, namely that of La Vavasour. Entirely new scenery has been prepared by Mr Willis, the scenic artist for this drama, which is full of life and incident. A number of old, familiar faces will appear on this occasion, and a number of musical selections will be given by the mem bers of the orchestra from Balfe and other popular composers also a polka (The Maori), and a waltz (The Sunny South), ;he compositions of Mr D. Cope, leader of the orchestra.

The Wreck of the Clan Alpine.

Discovery of the Stall,

[PER PRESS AGENCY.]

LYTTELTON, this day.

Captain Benner of the Hannah Barrett reports that at 4 p.m. on Friday, when about 15 miles south of the Kaikonras, and some seven miles off the mouth of the Conway river, he passed a derelict vessel. On bearing down lie found it to be the schooner Clan Alpine, of Auckland, floating with her stern eight or ten feet out of the water atmost perpendicularly. The Clan Alpine, Capt. Jas. Smart, left here for Hokitika on Tuesday with a cargo of potatoes, bacon, cheese, and other produce. Three hands were on board, besides the captain ; all young men. The mate was a native of Glasgow. It is feared that all hands are lost.

IONA.

A meeting of lona Directors ia rm* going on. uo« The Harbour View manager's report refer, hopefully to the prospects of the aW About twenty-five tons of stuff are in JgS dock. l *"" Tho return of gold from the Tokatea i» 8.70z5. ' a

The evangelistic services tiauallv heH , the Parncll Hall on Sunnday eveinV Jii not be held to-morrow, in consequence <!* repairs requiring to he done to the i» pipes in the Hall. . ***

OHINEMURI.

(From Our Own Correspondent.)

WAIT XX \ URI, this d*» Waitbkauri.—The ground from where tCio * crushing was taken out, is being filled in « 1 secured. The wall being ef a eoft treachprn?, nature, great care is required in workine n ; the atopes. and it will be next week h P f breaking down takes place, but there is ample supply for the battery to statt on a «5 there will bo no lack of stuff for the batto The last crushing, 7,626 ozs., was from jffl 1 over 700 tons of quartz, so that the onalitr • right enough if the battery could onlyTJ 3 going with full force. At present gold k r,? seen very frequently, but still there is notw to justify such a panic as seem* to have*at place in this scrip lately. I underhand the £«) is to be thoroughly prospected in the bWv between the Nos. 1 and 2 winzes, and betw« the No. 2 winze and the Homeward Bound Pn from whence some ttxceilent stone was takp^ driving To-morrow evening all handsjoinfa giving Mr Charles Wilson, late mine manaeJ? a complimentary dinner, and wishing him I*l' C63S wherever he soes. Alnrh regret is felt if his departure, and the wisdom of superseding him is much questioned. 8 Welcome.—Some really capital stone id coming to hand from the cross lode in the ten level, gold bein&r frequently seen. It i s 5 fine, friable, easily-crushed stone, worth tho manager estimates, close on 2 ozs. to' thn ton, and tho supply promises to last a consider able time. The Welcome have a large sucdlt of quartz at the battery, and will probably start with 18 head till the quartz is cleared away from the mill, when theylwirl crush permanently with ten head ; the Young Now Zealand then taking the remaining eight head. ° Young New Zealand.—The manager ia breaking out stone from the lode going north and from whence the laat crushing, which aver aged nearly three ounces, waa taken. The stone looks very promising, and should make an ex cellent fchow at the battery. Everything is pected to be ready for forwarding stone to the mill by Saturday night, but no stone will be sent for a day or two, till the Welcome clears ofl come of its quartz and leaves room for stowage The Perseverance. Auckland, and Leahy are about the only outsiders doing any substantial work at present, and in both Perseverance and Auckland the reefs are decidedly improvingthe last few days, and the Leahy arc in great hopes of being on something soon, as all the indications are good, and the ground first-claas. Minins matters being so dull, some few of us have taken a fresh start, and been agitating for a peripa tetic parson to visit us andc heer our drooping spirits. Verily reverses make the spirit humble and I even heard of one confirmed practical iokar contemplating starting a Sunday school amongst''our boys" on the hill. "Sic transit gloria mundi."

AN INTERESTING QUERY BEARING ON THE PRESENT POLITICAL POSITION.

(From the Tauranga " Times.")

(Scene. —Cobb and Go's Royal Mail Coach, Oropi Bish) time—ll a.m., 22nd October, 1877. , Dramatis Person te SUNDRY TRAVELLERS. [Weary Swagmau seen advancing in the distance.! First Traveller (on box seat)—Ah, positively, tramp, demine ! Have you many of these, ah,poor.fellahs going through these districts ? RESIDENT —Yes, a good many travelling towards Napier in the shearing season. Second Traveller (to First Traveller) —Ah, yes; you wemember we passed thwee unfortunate devils yesterday. [Weary Swagman passes with a ghastly countenance] Jehu —Good day I First Traveller (to Jehu)— Oh, do you know that wagged man ? Jehu—Oh yes ; that's the Government Road Inspector ! First Traveller (to Second Traveller) —Goodness gwacious ! "Wonder what old Gwey will^peel off that fellah's sc-rw. (Fact.)

POLICE COURT.— This Day.

(Before R. C. Barstow, Eso., E.M.)

Ellen McLean and John Edwards were fined 10s each, and John Hall and "Win. Cook, 5s each for inebriation of the senses. MINNIE'S MESSENGER. Patrick O'Brien, a member of the estab lishment recently disturbed in Alexandra street, was brought up on a charge of larceny of certain property belonging to James John Piggot, on the night of the 25th instant. The prisoner made no reply to the charge. Sub-Inspectcr Pardy said this youth wa3 another of the Alexandra-s-treet fraternity, and had a hand in robbing Mr Piggot of his property in the said house of ill fame. Prisoner was remanded until the 2nd inst., when he will appear with the other remanded prisoners. CHARGE OF CUTTING WOTJNDIKG. Joseph Patteson was charged with cut ting and wounding James Coughley on the 23rd inst. . Mr Tyler appeared for 'he prisoner; James Coughley deposed that he was a boiler-maker, and resided in Abercrombie street. On Tuesday morning, the 23rd inst., he met the prisoner by the Nevada Hotel, in Queen-street; it was between two and three o'clock in the morning. He could not remember much what was said. He went over to the coffee-stall, but could not say whether or not prisoner followed him. On leaving the coffee-stall, he went towards his home, and when by the Grey hound he saw Mr Patteson, who asked him to shout. He consented on condition that they could get into a house. Prisoner spokef of the Royal Mail as a likely house. They went and found admit tance, but he could not romemWj anything that took place inside. He nngnv have had something to drink, but could not

~ Sub-Inspector Pardy told witness not Jo be afraid of getting the publican into trouble, but to speak the truth. Witness proceeded to say that he had a good deal of drink that day, and could np» remember what happened. He was only Hj thej Mail a few minutes. Only he ana Patterson went to the hotel, the other men did not follow. He was asked by Fatter son to pay for a bottle of whiskey to taw back to the other men in Queen-street, dt» he refused to do this. Patterson then saw he was shabby. Patterson then said ne could lick witness at card -playing. J« replied that he could not Patterson twn challenged him to play, but he declinea. He then accused witness of improper cou duct towards a young woman, wnib exasperated him, and he immediately siw Patterson. g&A struggle ensued, »Qd went along Elliott-street in a fifp»» attitude towards each other. V» hen ml middle of the street he was stunned DV blow.; saw prisoner unbutton nisw» immediatelyibefore the blow was strucj. He had threatened to shoot him. He ™ struck four times ou the head, the ww. were very hard, and the wound bled j»£ fusely, could not recollect whether be w Prisoner went towards the market. »c %. ond gave information to Serjeant Mulviu, who assisted him- to Dr Hooper, w» dressed his wound. (Witness s hat * . produced with a cut through its side, opp site the wound. t g e Cross-examined by Mr Iyier"i eßß t had known the prisoner for at * twelve months. Had always been good terms with him. He had no ati but that his language in the jj^ tion was as bad as prisoners. & not of a mild temper when the drln\ 0 * in. He was too drnnk £ *» if prisoner was sober ; he thought ne not bo far gone as himself. Prl*9 ner *aW to go away, but he got before him, awu^ himself in a fighting attitude to V& e» him.

fHE EVENING STAR, MONDAY, OCTOBER 29, 1877.



introduced STEAM. PO WEB into tlie Manufacture of FURNITURE, we are ';ioio enabled to Supply our Cus omerr, at GRE A TLY R E D U CJE D PRICES. T. & H. COOKE, Cabinet makers, Upholsterers, &c, &c &!§* SIT O W BOOMS. G", Queen-sir-eet. STEAM CAB LYE 7 FACTORY, Victoria-street. 13 RAP ER V AND CIOTHING FOR THE SPRING AND SUMMER TRADE. The undersigned are now opening up supplies of NEW GOODS for the incoming Season, comprising:— New Prints, in great variety of pattern and style, from 4}d per yard Very Choice Brocaded Prints, quits new 'lesiprns White Satin Striped Brocaded Muslins Japanese Silks, very choice A nice assortment of Black Silks, unusually <vood value, from 3s Gel per yard A ■Varied and Carefully-selected Stock of New Fancy Dress Materials Black and Coloured Lustres in variety, and General Drapery Goods of every descrip tion. A Job Line of Heavy Brown Holland at 6Jd per yard Balance of Last Season s Dress Goods and Job Lines at very greatly Reduced Rates, to e'ear. Job Lot of large-sized Honeycomb Towels at Gd each, H yards long Every Requisite in Furnishing Drapery. Carpets in variety. Curtains. Blind Muslins, Window Holland, Damask, Sheetings, all makes, Toilet Covers, Coloured and White Quilts and Counterpanes £ 81-.nkets, all sizes, unusually cheap. &c, &c. " A Large Stock of Calicoes, of best makes, always on hand. Grey Calico from 3d per yard White Calico from 4£d per yard Every Description of Clothing for Boys' and Men Tweeds, Corduroy, Moleskin, strong material, i',,- for Boys' wear. a In he £ allowed on all Cash Purchases of 20s. and upwards. rushbrook & seidgman, Drapery Warehouse, Upper Quekn-strbet, auckland. SHEEA "DROTIERS "WILL OPEN NEW GOODS, Ex Famenoth.'



ly o t I c E. GREAT "MOVEMENTS OF LEAD, ZINC, AND SOLDEE. R. TUDEH OP E, PLUMBER, GASFITTER, & ZINCWORKER, begs to intimate to CU3tmners ana tti® public generally that he has BBMOVM to those Premises lately occupied by R Chalmers, next to George Staines', Upper Queen : street. where he hopes by Good . Workmanship and Moderate Charges to merit a continuance of their support. ■MTx^~^ r ~~z E s' '-"COSTUMES, UNDERCLOTHING, AND BABY-LIN EN. A Large Assortment of these Good3has iust been received by W. RATTRAY, DRAPER AND SILK MERCER, VfEW 7EALAND JJOUSB, 66, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND. p A R T N [E R S i± i I JT MR. ROBERT ORANWELL, Cabinetmaker, &c, Has this day been admitted a MEMBER of OUR FIRM ; and, as heretofore, will MANAGE the Furniture Department. HOLLOW AY & GARLICK. City Hall Arcade, Auckland, October 1, 1877. THE STYLE OF THE FIRM WILL IN FUTURE BE Eolloway, G-ariiok & OranwelL UNION INSURANCE COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND. CAPITAL £2,000,000. AUCKLAND BRANCH: • Temporary Offices: Q UEEN-STREET, Next to Mr. G. W. Binney's Store. FIRE DEPARTMENT. Insurances granted on Dwelling - houses, Stores, Shops, Buildings in which trade is carried on. Merchandise, and Good 3of eve*ry ascription. MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers. Merchandise of all kinds Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at Lowest Current Rates. R. H. STEVENSON, Manager.



mo AGRICULTURISTS & OTHERS. W.\J. HURST & CO. have on sale the under mentioned Fertilizers, all of which have been proved to produce satisfactory results in this district. Experience teaches that large and profitable returns can bo relied on by a judicious and liberal use of them. The nattering Testi monials from leading Fanners justify YV. J. iJurst & Co. in strongly commending them to every Agriculturist :— MALDEN ISLAND GUANO PERUVIAN GUANO MEXICAN do. BELL'S BONE FLOUR j and J-inch BONEDUST BILLYARD'S" No. 1 do. NITRATE OF SODA SULPHATE OF AMMONIA SUPERPHOSPHATE OF LIME. SALT, SULPHATK OF LIME. . In addition to the above, W. J. H. & Co. are prepared to supply special Chemical Manures For stimulating weak Corn Crops, and renovat in^ Clover-sick Pastures, as well as the Potato and Mangold mixture that last season attracted so much favourable notice. Analysis, prices, and other particulars will bo supplied on application at the Stores. VT. J. HURST & CO., 101 QUEKN-S T REE T, CLGYER ■ SEED, FOR SPRING SOWING Just Landed, ex Columbus— 30 casks new Clovers, consisting or Red Clover White Clover Cow Gra3 Also on hand, Alsyhe, Timothy, Lucerne, Rape, Rats-tail, Rye grass, Cocksfoot, (Sec, at lowest market rates. W. J. HURST & CO. 101, QUEEN-STREET. 500 sacks Sydney Maize (superior sample) SOOO „ Oats First-class Tartars for Seed, aiKO 800 sacks of 137-5 crop hard feed, surpassing any of last season's .Growth 1200 Backs Canterbury Potatoes, ond some early varieties for seed purposes F^our. Bran, Sharps, Chaff, Oilcake, Coal, &c, fee. Particular attention is called to COO sacks Prime Barley at is per bushel or 50ib. 5 tons Anderson's Fresh oatmeal, at £21 per ton. W. J. HURST & CO., 101, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND. TqiTNAL CLEARING-OUT RALE. GIVING UP BUSINESS !'.! J. W. PEAB.SE, DRAPER, CLOTHIER, ETC., Wishes to inform tbe public that he is Retiring from Business, on account of! the recent loss in his family. Tie will, therefore, offer tlio WHOLE OF HIS VALUABLE STOCK FOR ONE MONTH, at an Immense Reduction and Loss, he having disposed of his Premises, must have the Stock sold by that time. £2T Note Address :— ORNER OP VULCAN LANE & QUEEN-ST., Auckland. N.B.—To Country Storekeepers. Hotclkeepers, &c., &c, &c—This is an opportunity seldom met with to secure real bona fide Bargains. SALE TO COMMENCE ON WEDNESDAY October 10, 1877. J. COSGRAVE & CO. Beg to inform the Inhabitants of the Provincs, that they have Received a Large Consignment of GOODS, per the "City of Auckland," Purchased at the End of the Season in the English Markets, consisting of Manchester Goods (.) Men's Cloth ing- Dress Materials r) Black, Coloured, and Straw Hats (.) Japanese Silks Boy's Clothing C) &0., &c, __ &c. They have now Marked them Down, and will hold a Salr of the same on TO-MORROW (Saturday), 27th instant. The Public are requested to come Early and Secure the Extraordinary Bargains that will be given. THORNTON. SMITH, AND FIRTH'S PRICES CURRENT (WHOLESALE). Subject to alteration without notice. Sacks. 100's. 50*3. Crown Brand Flour, ,-fi s. d. £ s. d. & s. d. per ton 20 0 0 20 10 0 21 0 0 T.S.&F. Canterbury Brand , 18 0 0 IS 10 0 19 0 0 Meal for Pig-feed .. 710 0 Sharps 7 10 0 Bran 6 10 0 Fowl Wheat .. .. 0 4 oto 4s. Gel, The above prices include sacks and bags; sacks and bags not returnable. Terms: Cash. Auckland. 6th October, 1877. "VTATIONAL MORTGAGE & AGENCY 1^ COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND (LIMITED). Liberal Advances will be made on Wool and other Produce consigned to this Company for Sale in London. Apply Manager National Bank of New Zea land (Limited), Auckland.



There are " land rats and water rats," says Shakespeare, meaning tricksters on land as well as pirates on the sea. A certain class ot: the former are at present occupying themselves in the preparation and sale of sophisticated liquor disguised in bottlos which hswl for their first contents the finest medicinal "beverage of tao age, viz., Udolpho Wolfe's Scehkdam Aro matic SciDf aits, Aocept none but the genuine.