SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

mr-uTT.TTP i This Afternoon, 10.22 HIGH \. AT__*— "i To-morrow Horning, 10.12 SUN SET.—This Evening. 1.17 SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning. 7.9 MOON'S AGE.—Last Quarter, I'h, 1.50 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

southern L'ross. s.s., jnoimes, rrom _.>a.n-i- Wolverine, HALS., Commodore Hoskins, from

Wellington Ijovet Peacock, schooner, MeKenzle, from

Sydney „, , . Odalisk, brigantine, 207 tons, 11. J. Theaksom,

from Port Pirie , Pretty Jane, s.s., Heiander, from Gisborno and

Tauranga Wellington, s.s., Lloyd, from the South.

DEPARTURES.

PROJECTED DEPARTURES. For London—Electra, ship, early; Anne Gam

bles, barque, early. For Wangarei—Arsvle. every Tuesday For the South—Wellington, Saturday, 2nd June For Sydney—Rotorua. Wednesday, 6th June. For Honolulu and San Francisco—Australia, s.s., 6th June

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Ethel, brigantine. from Timaru ; 'sailed 29 May Lombardian, ship (N.W.G.T.), from London

sailed Jan. 2fl. Yosemite, ship (H.W.V.L.). from London, early. Hudson, ship (W.S.F.D.). from London ; sailed

May 30 G. Broughton, ship, (N.K.V.Q.), from London,

early 3)i_pussT_d, barque (MG.MD.I, from London

eariy. Spirit, of the Dawn, barque (H.T.V.C.), from London : sailed 2nd March Ann Gambles, barque, from Lyttelton, early William and Henry, brig, from Oamaru, early "Vision, brig, from Sydney, early R.vao. brigantine, from fhe. Islands, eariy Samo-i,. schooner, from Fiji, early Laefcitla, schooner, from the Islands, early. Edith, schooner, from Friendly Islands, early.

IMPORTS.

Per s.s. Wellington, from the South : 12 pkgs., 6 do., 15 do., ldo.. 10 do., 1 do., 1 parcel, 11 pkgs., 100 do., 31 kegs butter, 1 valise. Per Odalisk from PortPirie:—SOOObags wheat. —Thornton. Smith, and Firrh, agents. 1 *er Lovet Peacock from Newcastle :—355 tons co^.l. 10 tons coke. . Per AJastor, from London: 20 cases galvanized iron, 5 casks holloware, 35 cases vestas. 25 cases condensed milk, 2 cases carpet bags.—E. and H. Isaacs.

ARRIVAL OF THE WOLVERINE.

H.M.S. Wolverine arrived at 6 o'clock this morning from Wellington, after a tempestuous passage under sail of 13 days and a half. She was blown off the land by the fierce westerly gales.and hashadtedious workin working back. Tlie Wolverine is the flag ship of the Australian squadron, and is a powerful-looking corvette, carrying 17 guns. She is 1703 tons, and has engines of-100 horse power. She was commis sioned at Sheerness in Augustlast year with the following officers: Captain, Lindsay Brown: Commander. W. B. Bridges: Lieutenants. E.S. Dugdals, C. W. J. Spring, J. B. Fellowes, W. li. Matoria, Sub-Lieutenant, A. F. Arthur; Sur geon. Herbert, E. Marsh: chief engineer. A. M'Dowal!: paymaster, A. Allen . assistant-pay master J. G. Gordon: midshipmen, E. J. Wilson, L. A. St. C. Coxen, C. M. Crea, C. H. Run : naval cadets, Hon. F. C. B. Addington. S. H. B. Ash. Commodore Hoskynsjoincd the vessel in Aus tralia.

Tbe s.s. Wellington arrived in the Manukau to-day from the South. Passengers—Mrs Ryan and family, Miss Scbott. Messrs Campbell, Philips, Boardman, Engal, Dugan, Wood, Langley (2), Bateman, terry Jellard, Holmes, Geddes, Jackson, Master Scbott, and 7 in the steerage. . , „ ~-, . The s.s. Southern Crass arrived from Napier last night. Passengers: Mr Gouk, Mr Thomas Macffarlane. and 3 steerage. The brigantine Helena cleared to-day for the Manukau, where she is to load for Lyttelton. The schooner Lovet Peacock, which will be recollected as having been purchased by Mr J. S. Macfarlane some months ago, arrived this morning from Newcastle, with a cargo of coals and coke. The captain informs us he left port last Monday w reck, the 21st inst., and has had a very heavy weather passage, with winds princi pally from N.W. to S.W. On Wednesday the 23rd, a hurricane from the westward was experienced. The sea ran mountains high, and broke over the ship in large quantities. During the nisrht, Captain McKenzie informs us, the lightning was so continuous and vivid that he could see to read by it, and several luminous balls of fire, caused by the electrical state of the atmosphere, were observed on the trucks and cross-trees. The foresail was blown to rags. On Thursday at 8 a.m., the wind eased to a gale, whh terrific sea running. Hove the shin to after running her for eight hours under bare poles. Set the fo?estay sail at midnight, and rau before it. The sea kept up until the Three Kings were made on Tuesday night, at oight o'clock, when the wind moderated. Rounded the North Cane at 4 next morning, and had fine weather down the coast. While the Lovet Peacock was in Sydney, she was docked, and made thoroughly tight and staunch. She was afterwards surveyed, and received a first-class character. , _._ _ . The bnsrantine Flirt was passed oft the I«.a3t Cape by the Pretty Jane on her way down to Gisborne. On her return she was lying in Hicks Bay in company with the schooner Minnie Hare and the steamer Southern Cross. The s.s. Pretty Jane arrived from Gisborne and Tauranga at 9 o'clock this morning. Gisborne v/as left at 7 p.m. on Tuesday the 29th. Rounded the East Cape at 7 next morning, blowing a strong westerly gale and heavy sea running. Put into Hicks Bay after carrying away the foretopmast in a squall. Left the bay at 7 on Wednesday night, the weather having moder ated, and arrived at Tauranga at 1 p.m. yester day Left again at three o'clock and arrived he^e at 9 a.m. to-day Passengers: Messrs "Vercoe, Hill, Green, and 5 in the steerage. Cargo: 7 casks tallow, 31 hides. 60 sacks potatoes, 2C bales wool, C cases honey, 5 tons sundries, 1 horse The star of the South will call at Portland Island," Mania, and Gisborne on her way up from Napier. . The baraue Alastor having put out all her powder was towed up this morning by the p.s. Tainui and has taken the berth inside the western outer tee. Her fine bold lines and general appearance caused very general admi ration. , ~ . .. The Floral Star was hauled away from the wharf this morning, and is to sail for Lyttelton in ballast this afternoon. The new schooner Energy has come over from the gridiron to the Queen-street wharf to finish her loading for the islands. The brigantine Odalisk arrived from Port Pirie, Adelaide, this morning with a cargo of wheat. She left the port on the sth May, and hadstrong southerly winds in the Gulf as far as Kangaroo Island, where it came in from the S E and blew hard for several days, after which had strong N.E., and westerly gales for the rest of the voyage. Sighted the Great Barrier on Wednesday morning. The brigantine Lochiel is loading at Oamaru with breadstuff? for this port. The brigantine Augusta is engaged discharg ing her maize and sugar, on the west side of tne The s s Pretty Jane is advertised to leave for Tauranga and Gisborne at 2 p.m. to-morrow. A notice to consignees of the Alastor, requests them to pass entries, pay freights, and take delivery of goods at once.

COMMERCIAL.

There was a very large attendance at Mi- Arthur's mart to-day. The prices offered were : Potatoes, from 3s to Is ber cwt; pumpkins, from 2s to 3s lOd; carrots, 2s 6d per cwt; cheese, _tVd OVd ; bacon and hams from Id to B.}d ; butter, from 6d to lOd; fancy biscuits, 6d per lb; pear 3, from lid to 2Jd. _, „ , , „ . At Messrs Cochrane and Son's sale of house hold furniture to-c!av there was a fair attendance and the competition was good. Mr G Sibbin held a sale of produce to-nay. The attendance was fair, and bidding up to the Messrs M. Jones and Co. held their usual Friday sale to-flay- The attendance was not -very large, but the prices offered were good. Potatoes, £1 per ton; fowls, Is 7d to 2s 3d; turkeys. 3s 9d, 3s 10Q, 3s ; geese, 3s, 3s 2d; barley, 2s 7d ; onions, l}d to 2d.

AUCKLAND CATTLE MARKET.

MX ALFRED BVCKLAND'S WEEKLY REPORT. Horse stock: Strong riding or light-harness stock brought from _8 to £15 each. At Remuera on Thursday, fat cattle Avere in usual numbers --140 head were yrrded, principally well grown steeds and well fatted. Price, were in advance of late markets ; 28s the lOOlbs being obtained for all of good quality. No fat calves offered. Sheep were in less than usual numbers, and better inquiry: 4d the lb was the ruling price for middling quality. Pigs scarce, and slightly better worth. Best dairy coavs and heifers, £10 os to £13; inferior, £5 to £3; fat cattle, 26s to 30s the lOOlbs ; fat sheep, Id the lb. MESSRS HUNTER AND NOLAN'S WEEKLY REPORT. Horses: Hacks from £7 to £12 10s; light harness horses, from £12 to £18 10s. Cattle: FC fat beasts, in top condition, there Avas good competition, but for those not sufficiently Avell fatted bid ding was slow. We quote dairy coavs at £1) to £12 10s: Store coavs, from £3 10s to £5 ; l.Vand 2-year-old steers, £3 to £1 15s. Sheep: We sold half-bred eAves at lis to 10s; fat wethers, from 18s 9d to 22s 3d; mixed sexes, 16sTto 18s. Pigs: There were again a large number yarded, but sold readily at slightly improA red a-allies.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails wilt. Close as Under :— ForTbame3, this day, at 1.30 p.m,sand 5.30 p.m. ;

and to-morrow, at 11.30 a.m. and 1.30 p.m. For Coromandel. on Monday next, at 11.30 a.m. For Waiwera, Mahurangi, Matakana, Waipu, Mangawai. Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Annie Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Taranaki and Southern provinces, per s.s. Wellington, to-morrow, at 11 a.m. For money orders, registered letters, and

newspapers, at 10 a.m. Late letters will be recdlved till 11.20 a.m.

For Tauranga and Gisborne, per Pretty Jane,

to-morrow, at 1 p.m. For Tonga and Samoa, per Energy, to

morrow, at 2 p.m. For Tairua, per Mercury, on Monday next, at

11 a.m. For Napier, per Southern Cross, on Monday

next, at 3 p.m. For Whitiangi. Tauranga, and Opotiki, per

Rowena, on Monday next, at 1 n-m. For Russell. Wangaroa, and Mongonui. per

lona, on Monday next, at 1 p.m. Per 5.3. Australia on Wednesday, oth June, as follows: For Sandwich Islands. United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 11 a.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 11 a.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 9.30 a.m. Late letters bearing an extra fee of 6d in addition to the postage, will be received by the Mail Agent on board, up to the time of

sailing. For Australian Colonies, per Rotorua, on

Wednesday next, at 11 a.m. For Tauranga, Gisborne, Napier, and Southern Provinces, per Wanaka. on Wednesday next,

at 1 p.m. For Taranaki and Seuthern Provinces, per Hawea, on Wednesday next, at 1 p.m. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

Rheumatic and Gout Cure, prepared by Sharland and Co., Opposite Post-office, Auck land. Made from Indian Recipe. One or two cioses will relieve, two bottles will effect a cure. Its healing powers rarely ever fail. People far and near obtain it. Price, 4s. 6d. a bottle. AtkinsoVs Perfumery and Specialities. Look out for shams in the shape of poison 0113 imitations of the People's favourite health beverage, Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aro matic Schnapps. These detestable swindles often bear counterfeit labels or names closely approximating to that of the true article. A close scrutiny should be brought to bear upon preparations purporting to bu the real Schnapps.

NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.

A Subscriber.—You should address a letter to the Inspector of Police at Timaru, who will doubtless furnish all the information in his possession.

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

For the cause that Jacks assistance, For .he-wrong mat neeas resistance, For the future In the distauto, And the good that we can do

FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 1877.

It Avould be a mistake,we think,k) view the return of the Russian Ambassadors to St. Petersburg from the Berlin and Vienna Courts as in any respect a recall. Their visit has, no doubt, been entered upon for the purpose of personal consultation with tlie Russian diplomatic heads. The tenor of the cable dispatches during the last few days has shewn that Austrian interests arc becoming directly involved by the advance of the Russian army towards Servia, a«d the Avarlike preparations in thatPrlncipality. Austria cannot remain a quiet spectator of any movement having as its object the creation of a Slav nationality, separated only by the breadth of a river from a large population of the Slavonian race, under the rule of the Empire. The in

habitants of the Austrian province of Slavonia,which adjoins Servia, North of the river Save, speak the same language, and are associated in feelings and aspirations with the rest of the widespread Slavic race. A powerful Slavonic nationality on the eastern borders of the ill-assorted Austro- Huiigarian Empire would create a new element of weakness in the dominions of the House of Hapsburg. already shaken to its foundations by a long series of disasters ai d the complete loss of influence in the German Confederation. Speculation upon the possible wishes of Bussia with respect to a Servian rising, lands lis into helpless conjecture, with no better guide than a knowledge of the laws that may guide the crooked course of diplomacy. It appears in the highest degree improbable that Rus sia would desire to exchange the hostility of Austria for assistance so insignificant as that which could be given by the little Principality. If we were disposed to place any weight upon the reiterated assertions of the Czar that the Triple Alliance was undisturbed, we might give some credence to the rumours current a few months ago that a secret understanding exists between Austria and Russia, under which the exten sion of the Eastern boundary of Austria is to be the price of non-interference with Muscovite designs. A quid pro quo in Poland might be offered as compensation to Prussia. But, notwithstanding the re peated declarations that German interests are in no wav involved in the Eastern Ques tion,itis evident that no European countries are so seriously affected by the growth of Russian power', and we are more inclined to think that the present attitude of Austriaand Germany is adverse to the Russian cause. A few months ago Prince Bismarck declared that nothing but peril to the integrity ot the Austrian Empire would draw Germany into the struggle. By Pan-Slavic agitation and excitement on its borders, the main tenance of peace among tlie seven million Slavonian subjects of Austria is now menaced. The sequence of the telegrams bearing on this phase of the Turkish em broglio, as well as the plainly inevitable consequences of existing circumstances, point to the introduction of Austrian interests through the warlike attitude of Servia as the immediately exciting cause of tlie Ambassadorial mission toSt. Petersburg. The despatch of a German squadron to tlie Levant is, at least, a declaration that the Fatherland is not a disinterested spectator, and may see occasion at some future time to step into the arena. And we shall not be accused of an egotistical estimate of the power of the British licet now assembled in the Mediterranean, in feeling perfectly satisfied that the German squadron has not been sent as a check upon any policy which England may determine to support by a naval demonstration. Considerable interest will be felt in watching for further develop ments of the new although not unexpected element introduced into the study of Eastern complications.

A TELEGRAM from our Wellington corres pondent, whose information may be relied on, gives an outline of the new Native Lands Bill. The sum and substance of its provisions is free trade in native lands, the Government retiring from the field in favour of land speculators. _ and leaving the whole of the fair lands of the North open to purchase at any price the natives can be induced to accept. The Crown, however, claims for itself the right to collect twenty per cent upon all purchases. The question is a very large one, and we are not pre pared to enter fully into it until the bill is before us. The Government, with £700,000 at its disposal, has signally failed in opening up the country, and an infusion of private enterprise and private capital might prove beneficial. Put we look with .some distrust to the ultimate consequences of the unrestricted operations of land sharks. when we are informed of the part the Go vernment propose to play to secure bona fide settlement, wc shall be in a better position to judge how far free trade in land may be an act of justice to the natives and of "benefit to the country, and how far it implies the handing over of the whole North Island to a few speculators. We learn that the bill is being printed at the " Herald" office for general circulation, and that journal has pursued the unusual and unwarrantable course of making use of information gathered in tins way before the bill has been made available for the press through the ordinary channels. We can only characterise such a procedure as a gross breach of trust, and one which should not pass unrebuked by the ministerial employers of that printing establishment. In a few days we shall probably be in a position to publish a sum mary of the leading provisions of the Bill.

The total of the Customs collected during the month of May was £13,342 Ss Id. The amount for tlie corresponding month last year was £16,250 19s 6d, a falling oil' of £2,948 lis fid being thus apparent.

The "Presbyterian Church News" for the present month is quite equal in literary value to its predecessors. Wc notice among its varied contents an article on Sabbath school teaching, with reference to the Sabbath-school committee's determination to offer a prize for the best essay on the best method of Sabbath-school teaching. The article on the Doctrinal Belief of the Presbyterian Church, by Professor Cairns, author of the " Religion of Common Life," will be read with interest. The sketches of the New Hebrides Mission are continued by the venerable missionary, Rev. John Inglis, and the present notice refers more particularly to Aneityum, and the progress of Christianity and civilisation in that island. Tlie Home Mission report, drawn up by Rev. D. Bruce, furnishes a succinct account of the operations of the committee for the past year, and the disposition of the funds. An excellent sermon on " ifs " also appears, and several letters on various subjects, of more or less value, with news of the church, and an original poem, on the death of a relative. The " News "is to be commended, moreover, for its judicious selections, and items of home and colonial intelligence. ~

The Customs' revenue collected at Wel lington for the month of May amounted to £14,622 9s 2d.

The Chess Tournament is near its close, and Mr Morton is set down as the winner of the silver Cup presented by Mr William Aitkin. Eight gentlemen took part in the competition, and had to play tA\-o games oach. It was conjectured at an early stage of the contest, that the prize Avould be claimed by one of the four competitors, viz. :—Messrs. Morton, SteAvart, Lusk, and Heather. As the series of matches drew near a conclusion, the interest centred in the games played by Messrs. Morton and Stewart. Messrs. Heather, Lusk. Gorrie, and Schmidt, have not yet closed, but there is no hope of either of these gentlemen being able to cope with Mr Morton. The following will give the interested reader the results of the several games : — Games Avon.Games drawn.Games lost. Morton 10 3 .. 1 Heather .. 6 2 .. 1 Stewart .. 4 .. 3 .. rf Lusk .. 4 .. ' 4 •• 2 .Taking .. 5 .. 1 •• 6 Schmidt .. 4 .. 0 .. 5 Gorrie .. 3 .. 0 .. 7 Breo .. 2 .. 0 .. 8 The city authorities are inflicting a hard ship on the licensed draymen who stand in Custom House-street. They have closed up the old stand at the corner of Mill Lane and Custom House-street, and the place which tho drays are now permitted to occupy is on the newly reclaimed land between Messrs Jones and Ware's office and the. Wharf Dining Rooms. At present the mud is so thick lioi-e that the horses stand in it up to their fettocks. The men grumble very much that they have not a better stand "•iven them, anil not without reason, for to remain for hours as they do now is neither beneficial to horse nor man. Can not the Corporation find them somewhere else to spend ftheir intervals of rest.

Two boys escaped from the Training Ship yesterday morning. They made their way i to the Manukau, and loitered about the wharf, intending to go down south in one of i the steamers, hut were captured by the j vigilant Sergeant O'Connor, aud sent back last night. j

Acting under the instructions of his Worship the Mayor, the Town Clerk lias compiled a very excellent property book for the City Council. The book gives all necessary particulars in a form highly convenient for reference. Plans of the endowments, prepared by Master John Phillips, have been drawn with neatness and accuracy.

The Rev D. Bruce has been visiting the Waikato for the purpose of re-dividing the district into three distinct clerical charges. Te Awamutu, Alexandra, and Pateraiigi, and Harapipi, from the western district; Ohaupo, Pukeriiiiu, Cambridge, and Hautapu the middle, and Piako, Hamilton, Ngaruawahia, and Taupiri the lower district. These changes arc expected to produce beneficial etl'ects on the progress of Presbyterianism in the Waikato.

We understand that the Commissioners of Inquiry respecting the condition of the Mount Eden Gaol sent in their report yesterday to the Hon. F. Whitaker, who has it under consideration, prior to its transmission to Wellington. The nature of the report has not transpired. The Wellington " Argus" referring to the visit of the trance lecturer, says : —" It is an old but true saying that " One fool makes many,' and Mr Walker appears to be gull ing a very large number of people in Auckland."

Tho regular monthly meeting of the Euni.killen Loyal Orange Lodge will be held this evening in the lodge room, Karangahape Road, at half-past seven o'clock.

St. Matthew's entertainment will be held this evening in the Lome-street Hall, the proceeds to be devoted to the Sunday-school Harmonium Fund. Mr Webb junr., will conduct the choir. They will be assisted by the Orpheus Glee Club No. 2.

Messrs John Waymonth and George Frazer having been nominated without opposition as auditors of city accounts, they were declared by the Returning Ollicer to (lav to be duly elected. Mr E. Hadrill, of the Crown Hotel, Grey-street, notifies in another column that he 'is prepared henceforth to supply bis customers every Saturday with bottled ale at the same price as draught beer, with bottles included. On Monday evening some evil-disposed person stripped the bark off a fine orna mental tree on The Grange, Mount Eden. Mr Prince offers tlie sum of five pounds to

any one who will give such information as shall lead to the detectien of the perpe trator of the senseless act.

At the Hawera races, Katipo won the Produce Stakes, Opawa the Hawera Stakes, and Bully-For-You the District Cup. A Wellington paper, referring to the advertisement of an Auckland butcher offering mutton at 2d to 3d per lb, asks why tlie butchers in the Empire city can not afford erpuil facilities to consumers.

The Pakuranga hounds meet to-morrow, (Saturday) at Panmurc Bridge at 11 a.m., instead of at the Scotch Church, Howick.

It is stated in quite a matter-of-fact way by the "News-letter"' that two men at Masterton recently tried to drown a woman, who had not added to their happiness. We should like to learn a few more particulars. The story in its present shape is slightly bald.

The Wanamja gives currency to tiie rumour that Mr Rolleston is expected to join the Ministry.

The " Bay of Plenty Times," in an article on Spiritualism, says:—"lt may be remarked, en passent, that, putting aside altogether for the nonce the more common place spirituous manifestations which arc seen in tap-rooms, and at Mr Barstow's morning levees, a strong bond of sympathy appears to exist between the impalpable essences of the " sperrets," and substantial flesh and blood, as demonstrated by tlie " manifestations " occasionally witnessed amongst the younger members of opposite sexes when the lights are all too suddenly turned on after the 'dark seance.' "

A funny writer in the "Nelson Times" says: "Tlie real object of the Hiiiomoa's visit to Nelson is not generally known, it was a sort of secret service that, told me in the strictest confidence, must now only be printed in a whisper. The Government steamer came to obtain (by peaceful means if possible, vi ct armis if necessary) five pannikins returned short in the war material loaned to tlie Nelson Volunteers for the Easter encampment. lam glad to lie able to say there was no blood spilt over the restitution of these articles ; they were duly delivered and signed for, and ere this are safely deposited in the Government store with Colonel Gorton's broad arrow on them, and (tlie usual result of this impres sion) a slight leak where branded. There is no denying the fact that New Zealand has a Government that looks after the pence and allows the pounds to take care of them selves—if they can."

Something will have to be done to put down the insurance-agent nuisance. Two gentlemen were travelling on the Clutha Railway line tlie other day, when one of them remarked that the other would not look any the worse for a shave. " Shave ! sir !" remarked a sharp-looking little man seated in the corner of a carriage, "Stupid expenditure of money.' The same amount would insure your life in our oflice for £300. Let me take a proposal from you." The unshaven one took the earliest opportunity to get into another carriage.

The " Taranaki News" is very candid with regard to its war map. The " News" says :—" We make no pretensions of hav ing gone to any great trouble or expense in procuring it for our readers, nor can we boast of its accuracy. By no means do we intend to make it our authority for the spelling of geographical names. Such as it is we present it to our readers, hoping to be able to furnish them Avith something better on a future occasion." The map in ques tion was a fac simile to the one published by the New Zealand "Herald."

CABLEGRAMS.

NEW ZEALAND LOAN AND MER-

CANTILE AGENCY COMPANY (LIMITED) PRODUCE TELE GRAM.

LONDON, May 27th. Wool.—The Continental demand Ims fallen oil". Superior greasy has declined a half-penny to a penny. Combing, washed, marked easier.

RUSSIAN AMBASSADORS LEAVE LONDON, BERLIN, AND VIENNA.

GERMAN SQUADRON GONE TO

[PRESS AGENCY.]

LEVANT

SINGAPORE, Thursday,

The Russian Ambassadors at Berlin, Vienna, and London, have loft these Courts, and gone to St. Petersburg. A German squadron has gone to the Levant.

AUSTRALIAN.

MR FRANCIS DECLINES KNIGHT-

HOOD. SYDNEY, JJunc 1

Arrived : Wakatipu. Mr J. C. Francis has declined the honour of knighthood. The draught horse Lion King, valued at £2000, has arrived here by the Northumber land.

THE CUTTER WARKWORTH.

The cutter Warkworth, which we have already referred to as having gone ashore, and been Moated oft, at Waikanae, has, we are informed, again gone ashore close to the same place. A telegram received this morning by Mr Gilfillau holds out strong hopes of 'getting her oil' without much damage.

Arrival of the Lovet Peacock from Newcastle.

By the arrival of the Lovet Peacock wc have a few additional items of Australian news : — A CHILD BURNED TO DEATH. A little girl, aged six, named Annie Max ted, was burned to death at Newcastle. She was left in charge of the house by her father, a coal-trimmer. A watchmaker, who passed the house in the morning, heard a child screaming, and on going in found the girl's clothes in flames. He pulled them' off as soon as possible, but the j child was so severely injured that she died soon afterwards. The accident was caused by the girl pulling a poker out of the lire. " WRECK OF THE KETCH ROSE. The Rose left Newcastle for Lake Mac nuarie, but on arriving on the bar expe rienced a S.W. gale, and was obliged to heave to. Next morning the vessel was ten miles off the land. The captain stood in and at about, dark was three miles oil Teiigal Point. After dark he ran along the coast, when it came on to blow from the eastward, and the vessel was driven on to the beach. The cargo was valued at £200. The captain escaped, but two other men, named William Kehao, and another whose name is not mentioned, were drowned.

DRAY CAPSIZED IN KYBER PASS ROAD.

ONE of the most disgraceful pieces of road in the province is within 200 yards of the city, viz., at the top of the Kyber Pass road. For three or four months it has been dangerous ro life and limb. Several times the Whau 'bus has nearly capsized when the wheels dropped into the ruts. To-day, as a load of hay was passing over the part of the road referred to, the dray capsized in the centre of the road. Tho hay was strewn over the mud, and the shaft horse thrown severely on his back and nearly killed. We hope for thesake of the lives of Her Majesty's liege subjects that tho proper authorities will be'called to account for tlie neglect. It is rumoured that the Mount Eden Board get the toll and royalty money for the purpose of keeping this piece of road in repair. If so, they should be compelled to perform their duty.

THE HAUHAU RELIGION

[From our Special Correspondent in the Tuhua Country].

Although no places of worship are to be found in tlie upper Waiiganui district, yet tlie natives being Ilauhaus, use the paime riri prayers, praying for tlie welfare and protection of their King, Tawhiao. They have prayers daily the first thing in the morning before breakfast, and again in the evening after their supper. Their suppli cations commence with these word.-., " nga te ngaria," and end with the word " painia riri." I took the trouble to count how many times the word painiariri was used in the prayers, and found that it was repeated thirty-two times. The priest commences the prayers, and the natives all join in, chanting them, the wife of the priest also says one of the short prayers alone. The Hauhaus do not reckon their time as the Europeans—they make each month thirty days long, calling every tenth day " Ratapu ' (Sunday). On the sixth day of each month they chant their prayers six times during the day instead of cwice, but for what reason I could not learn.

I observe in the Government maps that the Tuhua district is marked as extending from Lake Taupo to Mokau. This is incorrect. The Tuhua block of land is only about thirty-five miles long, with an average breadtli of forty miles. The Waiiganui river runs through the centre of it, leaving about half of the land on each side of tho river. Its northern and southern boun daries are branch rivers of the Waii ganui, and its northern and western boundaries are the Tuhua range of hills. 1 asked the natives what they would charge me for purchasing a few hundred acres of land at Tuhua. They replied £3 an acre, whilst at the same time they offered me the adjoining land at 2s 6d an acre. This fact, 1 think you will agree with me, goes far to prove that the natives believe that gold is to be had at Tuhua, but whether they arc mistaken or not remains to be seen.' In the Government maps I find no names given to the branch rivers of the Waiiganui, Some of them are of a con siderable size ; one called tlie Olmra, which empties itself into the Waiiganui river at a settlement called Mararkohoi, the home of the great chief Topine, is more than a hundred miles in length. There is also the Ohura-iti or little Ohura, the Opatea, and Waikaakaa, rivers all falling into the Waiiganui on its western bank. On the east side there is the Rataruke, Mangan uietau and others, which rise near Tongoriro mountain and fall into the Waiiganui river.

MASONIC MEETING.

A MEETING of delegates from Masonic Lodges under the Scotch Constitution was held last evening in the Lodge-room of the Star Hotel to consider the steps to be taken for the formation of a Provincial Grand Lodge. The following delegates were present : —St. Andrew's Lodge (Auckland), represented by Brother Walker, R.W.M., and Brother 'Ellison, S.W. ; Lodge Sfcr Walter Scott (Thames), represented by Brother Murray, R.W.M., aud Brother Tyler, R.W.P.M. ; Waterloo Lodge (Wel lington), represented by Brother the Rev. J. Hill, R.W.P.M., and Brother Brodie, R.W.P.M. ; Patea Kilwinning Lodge, re presented by Brother Dewar, R.W.P.M., and Brother Wilkinson, S.W. (Lodge Sir Walter Scott) ; Lxlge Manukau (One hunga), represented by Brother Niccol, R.W.M. (and R.W.P.M. Lodge St. An drew'), and Brother Henry, Junior Warden, Bro. Tyler was called to the chair, and explained the nature of the business before tlie meeting. Bro. Hill announced that Bro. F. Whitaker had promised to confirm tlie appointment of the officers selected at the meeting. The following nominations were made :—Bro. P.M. Dr Johnson (of Wellington), G.W.D.M.; Bro. P.M. Niccol (Auckland), G.S.M.; Bro. P.M. Brodie (Thames), G.S.W.; Bro. P.M. Hay, G.J.W.; Bro. P.M. Tyler, G.. Sec; Bro. Gillon (Wellington), G.D. Sec; Bro. the Rev. J. Hill, G. Chaplain ; Bro. the Rev. David Bruce, G. Registrar ; Bro. the Rev. Harvey (Wellington), G.D. Chaplain; Bro. R.W.M. Murray (Thames), G. Treasurer; Bro. P.M. Powles (Welling ton), G.S.D.; Bro. Ellison (Auckland), G.J.D.; Bro. P.M. Anderson, G. Architect; Bro. Whitson, G. Bible-bearer; Bro, P.M. Dewar, Director of Ceremonies ; Bro. Capt. Eraser (Thames), Sword-bearer; Bro. H. Brett, Director of Music ; Bros. Dale (Patea), and Wilkinson (Thames), Grand Marshals ; Bro. J. R. Henry (Onehunga), President of Stewards; Bro. T. Rawden (Thames), Grand Tyler. Brother P. M. Brodie proposed that the installation should take place at the Choral Hall, Auckland, at a time to be fixed here after, which was agreed to. It was also agreed that the lodges represented at tlie meeting should become responsible for re galia to the value of £100, and that Brother Tyler be instructed to write for the same by the outgoing mail, the cost to be made a first charge on the Grand Lodge funds. Bros. Niccol, Brodie, Tyler, Hay, Hill, Brett, and Dewar, were appointed a committee to make arrangements for the inauguration of the Grand Lodge. A vote of thanks was passed to the Chairman, and the meeting separated. j

New Native Lands Bill.

[By Telegraph]

(From Our Own Correspondent)

WELLINGTON, this day. \ DURING the recent visit of the Attorney- General the new Native Lands Bill was submitted to the Cabinet, and finally settled. From what is said out of doors, Mr Whitaker's proposals were accepted j nearly without objection. The existing ! Act (the Act of 1573) is, of course, to be repealed outright, and the general scheme is said to be a return to the policy of 1865, with the amendments suggested by ex perience. The Government, for the third and last time, evacuates the land market, and will leave speculation therein to the public. Certificates of title are to be issued to owners, and they may sell or lease to whom they please, and at once. Mortgages are forbidden, it is said, and after the Napier experience nobody will find fault with this provision. The general idea of the Bill seems to be, absolute freedom of the Maori in his territorial rights, and absolute freedom of the land from Govern ment interference. The duty, my informant says, is to be 20 per cent ad valorem. I cannot learn whether the Tauranga 2,000,000 acres arc to be subject to the Act, or are still to remain an appendage of the Clarke family.

ROBBERY AT PUKEKOHE.

On Wednesday night,as the train to Mercer arrived at Pukekohe,the guard was accosted by a settler who stated he had been robbed of his watch, and he desired a letter to be taken to Constable Walker at Mercer. Constable Walker, was however, in the same train, on his return from lodging Wilson in the Stockade. The settler informed the constable of the circumstances of the case, that he had out of kindness offered the robber a dinner ; that while absent from the house he left his visitor to finish his meal, but the latter bolted not only his dinner, but his host's watch, which he took from a waistcoat hanging up. Strange to say the pilferer had his own watch—dis-attached this from the chain, and put on it his benefactors. Walker having obtaiued full description, the train sped on without further incident worthy of mention until arriving at Tuakau, when Walker espied his man on the platform waiting for the Mercer trail, and in a most clever manner, we are informed, affected his capture. The second of a similar kind within ten days. The robber, whose name we have not received, was brought before Captain Jackson, and received six weeks imprison ment.

Our Goldfields.

(From Our own Correspondent.)

GRAHAMSTOWN, this day. HANDSOME RETURN FROM THE

ALBURNIA

The Alburnia cleaned up to-day for a handsome return of 005 ozs. 11 dwts. of melted gold. The total interim and final crushing is 1794 ozs. THE SH A REMARKET.

Sales of Moanatairi, £13 10s to £12 5s ; Alburnia, 5Ss, to 62.s 6d ; Kuranui Hill, 28s 9d, 28s 6d ; Queen of Beauty, 22s 6d, 335; Waitekauri, 16's 6d ; Young New Zealand, 7s. Sellers : Moanatairi, £13 ; Alburnia, Gss ; Queen of May, 20s : Piako, lis ; Cure, 10s ; Red Queen, 3s Gd ; Waitekauri, 17s; Young- New Zealand, 7s. Buyers : Moanatairi, £12 15s ; Alburnia, 60s ; Caledonian, 100s ; Queen of May, 19s; do. contributing, 9s 6d ; Waitekauri, 16s Gd ; Young New Zea land, Gs Gd.

COROMANDEL, this day.

The Tokatea manager reports 130 lbs of specimens yesterday and to-day, and more are looked for. The mine's generally look ing splendid. The Royal manager reports good stone from various parts of the mine, and every thing is in a satisfactory condition. The Carathic is getting out good picked stone.

TOKATEA, this day.

NEW FIND IN TOKATEA.

The Tokatea has found an important, and entirely new shot of gold in the Van level,; with 300 feet back unprospected ground. They have 200 cwt of specimens on hand, and the quality and quantity is improving. They are going to break down this afternoon.

THE LATEST.

200lbs SPECIMENS

Tlie result of tlie breaking doAvn of the Tokatea to-day is 200 lbs. of specimens. A good show is left in the roof and face.

THE MOANATAIRI.

The folloAving telegram Avas posted this morning on 'Change. " GrahamstoAvn, this day.—To F. A. White. —_i cwt specimens from driA-e on neAV winze. Splendid slioav of gold in face of floor. —R. Comer."

Strange to say prices instead of advancing haA-e receded, and during the morning shares were sold at £13. Speculators are puzzled lioav to account for it. THE PIAKO G.M.C.

Another good telegram Avas received from the mine manager this morning, and Mr Home had the following notice posted up :

"Manager reports 200 lbs specimens on hand. Good gold showing in the face.— W. HORNE."

ALBURNIA G.M. COMPANY.

The folloAving telegram from this claim Avas on vieAV to-day :

"Gr.ihamstown, this day.—Melted *gold 005 o.'.x Slide in south drive. Battery level changed into leader. 2 lbs good specimens taken out.—S. Gribble."

The following were the prevailing quotations during the day: Moanatairi, £12 15s to £13 10s; Tokatea, Ss to 10s; Alburnia, buyers, COs ; Union Beach, sales, 25s ; Kuranui, buyers, 2Ss. ; Queen of May, 21s.

POLITICS.

(To the Editor of the Star)

Sir,—By latest telegraphic intelligence I sec it is stated that " a movement is afoot in Otago to hold a convention of County Chairmen to consider the working of the Counties Act." Sir, Avill you permit me through your medium to inform the small remnant of Vogelites in Otago so advertis ing by telegraph, that their aonvention scheme is a total superfluity, forasmuch as the immediately present programme is : Two Colonies (each one Avith one parliamen tary government) for the tAvo island countries (?) with their satellite Road Boards and Municipalities, instead of the former ten parliament, for the tAvo islands. That is it iioav ; and, therefore and consequently, their project for conferring to amend any Counties Act, so-called, is plainly unnecessary, because Aye haA re all calmly resolved never more to haA r _ so many different sorts and sizes of ruinous taxing machines, nick-named governments, and so, then, there cannot be things called coun ties. The small knot of Otagoites, there fore, Avill not require the vast expense of time and money for any such coirvention. Sir, I think that they have, just noAA r, only to look out for next session of the Assem bly.—l am, Sir, ________ E. Sadler.

MESSRS BAKER AND FARRON.

IN consequence of the above talented ortistes having arranged with Mr DeLias to appear at the Theatre Royal on tlie 7th assisted by a. full Company, the performance advertised for to-morrow evening in the Lome-street Hall will not be given. We notice that 30 boys are wanted to assist in one of the principal military pageants.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before R. C, Barstow Esq. R. M.) THE DOG NUISANCE. William Clark was called upon to answer for his dog Toby, found barking in tie street without a collar. Mr Clark said he had since got a collar for Toby. Fined Is. and 5s and 66. costs. BREACH OF RAILWAY REGULATIONS. Thomas Henderson was charged with a breach of by-laws and regulations for travelling upon railways by getting out of a carriage while the train was in motion on the 24th inst. Defendant pleaded guilty under peculiar circumstances. Sub-Inspector Pardy said he .would not press for a heavy penalty, as Mr Henderson was excited at the time, being interested in the races. Fined 10s, costs 6s 6d. SUNDRIES. William McNamara was charged under No.* 1 by-law., with allowing his cow to

! stray. , , I Edward Thomas was charged with nc d" ---i lecting to furnish his dog "Trim" with'a collar. These cases w rere adjourned until to morrow, as the parties had not beeu per sonally served. ! THE WANDERING COW. ' John Nicolas was charged under the by-law with allowing his cow to wander in Karangahape road on the Bth May. Mr Thome pleaded not guilty, and said the defendant's name was Litten, and not Nicolas. Sub-Inspector Pardy said Nicolas was the name given by defendant. i Mr Thome said that his client was a wag ' undoubtedly, and a humourist. The con : stable understood his client to say his name was Nicholas, and when he asked him to spell the name he did so. His Worship said that defendant must be answerable. Constable Abrams told the story of the cow in simple language ; he saw the cow on the left-hand side of Karangahape road, following the instincts of its animal nature, and munching the grass from the abundant bosom of nature. He spoke to the owner; who said his name was Nicholas, he wrote the name down in large letters, from ' defendent's dictation, wdien he said "all right." . ,' v Thomas Barnes deposed that he had been a sufferer in consequence of the trespasses of the cow ; he had conic forward with,the view of putting down a nuisance. (Here Mr Barnes grew exceedingly angry, and was proceeding in along harangue,, when ' he was stopped by the Court.) | John Litten deposed that he was 1 a briishmaker ■in Auckland, but coidd not give the exact locality of his residence ; he lived close by the j Epiphany church ; he certainly did have a lark with the policeman, in not undoing his blunder. . i The defendant was sharply cross-examined by the Sub-Inspector, but gave vague and • indirect answers. j His Worship :It is nonsense to give . ' evidence in this manner. ! Mr Thorne requested defendant to answer . the questions, but he would persist in sus > taiiiing his character as a wag. '■ • John E. Litten gave evidence : He and i his father were driving the cow ; they were . about 70 yards behind her ; when the Con ; stable intervened, and commenced driving | her to the pound behind the Star hotel ; ! she had been iv their paddock all night, ' The cow passed leisurely beneath the boughs, ' And paused sometimes upon the crass to browse, ' ; And sipped the water from the wayside rill 3 ■ That came from sources near the Surrey hills. I Sub-Inspector Pardy intimated that ; : defendant and his son had not spoken the ' j truth, and he should call re-butting evi dcilCG. 1 Mr Thorne objected, but was over-ruled by the Court. Mr Barnes was re-called, and contra dicted the evidence of defendant's son. Mr Thorne objected to re-calling witnes ses, and made a statement which was [ incorrect, and contradicted the avowal of [ the Court in this particular, in con -5 I sequence of which he was severely rebuked 5 , by His Worship. • j 'His Worship found defendant guilty, j and ordered him to pay a fine of 10s, costs, I £1 lis Gd.

BREACH OF SHEEP ACT. Hugh Macky Avas charged with a breach of the Sheep Act. Defendant Avas not present. Sub-Inspecter Pardy said he thought the summons had not been served, as Mr Macky lived ten miles from Papakura. Adjourned for a week.

THE FERONIA ENQUIRY.

(Before R, C. Barstow, Esq., R.M., and

Captain Tilly, Nautical Assessor)

Mr Brnokfield appeared on the part of the Collector of Customs, aud Mr Hesketh on the part of Captain White. Mr Thomas Hill, Collector of Customs, was alsi present. The enquiry into the wreck was then opened. Joseph John Mitcheson White, Master, ; was called, and deposed that up to the 16th : May he was in command of the British barque Feronia, aud had been fur nished with the report and application for this enquiry by the Collector of Customs. He left Wellington on the 14th May, ballast on board, no cargo. She was well ballasted. Arrived at Kaipara Bar on the morning of the 16th May; weather fine, with the exception of a slight haze ; could dis tinguish objects with the glass six miles off. Had never been in the Kaipara harbour before. Entered by north-east, or Kemp's Channel. The only land mark noticed Avas the North Head, a small green patch, and on the other side a high hill; passed Tory shore within a mile, his ship was 128 feet long. The tide was running about five knots. He did not think he was too close to the sand pit ; she was going about four knots. He tacked, and the ship came completely round, her sails were full; the wind S. or E. of both. Wind suddenly ceased, shifted round. He reduced the sads as quickly as possible, gallant and topsail; the foresail, bu. not the mainsail was set. He was stationed on the poop at the wheel. He was steering at the time. It was his duty to boat the wdieel at the time. He could see all that was going on. The chief mate was at the fore castle, and the second at the braces. He ordered the anchor to be let down.but it was not let go at the time ; the chief officer will state the reason. He hardly thought that the ship would have been saved if the anchor had been let go when the ship was taken aback. There was not time before she touched. There was about 15 or 16 fathoms range at the anchors, which was considered good. If the anchors had dropped at the time, the bows might have been torn out of the ship. He did not see the semiphore working; did mot know it was there, The water Avhere the vessel stranded was about eight feet. It avus then three-quarters flood. Kept outside the shoals till he reached Kemp's channel. It Avas rather hazy, and partly from this cause and partly on account of the distance, he did not see the beacons. The semiphore Avasover tAvo miles .from the ship in a straight line, and four miles round by the beach. The pilot came to the vessel about tAvo hours and-a-half after she stranded. All hands Avere perfectly sober ; in fact, there was no intoxicating drink on the vessel. Witness here handed in his cevtificate oi competency.



TT" AIP AR A RAIL WA Y. On and after Monday, Mar 7th, 1377, the Train will leave Riverhead at 3 p.m., for Helcnsville. Table will be as foliOAvs :— Riverhead, departure .. 3 p.m. Knmeo 3.16 p.m. Waimaitku 3.30 p.m. Rewiti .. 3.18 p.m. - Woodhill 353 p.m. Pairoa 4.1 p.m. Helensvllle, arrive .. .. 4.20 pm. By order. I A. V. MACDONALD, General Manager



fv <j r t c l. - h Hi g MACINTOSH COATS. WATERPROOF CLOTHING. RUSHBROOK AND BRIDGMAN * Have Just Opened, and are now Showing, a Large Parcel ef the above Goods, from the " same House, and of similar style, to their 1 Last Season's Goods, concerning the V, ear c and Quality of which they have received . many satisfactory testimonials. The Parcel includes various Styles, and all sizes. .' /'Light Textures, in Black and Drab, for \ q j town wear. t O I Strong Heavy Sheeting. (Sj _Q j Strong Twilled, Velvet. Collars. < a. _ J Cashmere, Fancy Check, and Diagonal ] S3 < ) Tweed Patterns. , r5 § Extra Heavy Diagonal Warm Lined, 5 and extra long. "_\ Sealskin Lined, specially adapted for i ? V. Cabmen, 'Buss Drivers, &c. waterproof aprons. leggings, &c. Also, a further supply of BLANKETS, REVERSIBLE BUSH RUGS, AND FANCY AUSTRIAN RUGS, To Hand this Week. Is. in the £ allowed on all Cash Purchases of 20s. and upwards. rushbrook & bridgman, Junction Drapery Warehouse, Upper Queen-street, AUCIKAKr. T U"S T RECEIVED. EX "HERO." ON E CASE OF WOOL PO P LIN S_ AND BLACK SILK FRINGES. Very Choice Goods. W. RATTRAY. DRAPER, HOSIER, & SILK MER3ER, New Zealand House, 66. queen-street. AUCKLAND (^FECIAL NOTICE. H. L. POSSENNISKIE, T-TTTT A 1111 LL OO RRRRR TT A II L O O R R TT AA II L O O R-R-R TT A—A II L O O R R TT A A II L O O R R TTT A A 1111 LLLLL OO R R AND ; HABIT-MAKER, SHORTLAND-STREET, . Auckland. H.L.P. begs to Inform his customers and the 5 nubiic s-euerally that he has Just Received a Large Consignment of WINTER TWEEDS and ; FANCY COATINGS ; also, a Special Line of SUPERIOR SILK VESTINGS. . N.B.—The Trade supplied at a small advance . on Invoice Prices, for Cash. MUTUAL LIFE ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALASIA. 3 INCORPORATED BY ACT OF PARLIAMENT. I NEW ZEALAND BRANCH: I Head Oflice, Auckland j Local Director: ; George Burg ~yne Owen, Esq. (Messrs. Owen L and Graham.) Principal Medical Officer: Charles Field Goldsbro', Esq., M.D. > General Agent for New Zealand : 3 William T. J. Bell. 1 With Sub-Agencies in all the Principal Towns. fc Every information on the subject of LIFE I ASSURANCE ANNUITIES, and ENDOW - MENT3 FOR CHILDREN, afforded by J. A. fc Lowe, Travelling Agent to the Association ;or 1 WILLIAM T. J. BELL, 3 General Agent. f %_, 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.



The ordinary fortnightly meeting of the Board of Education AA'as held this after noon. Present: Mr H. H. Lusk (chairmanL Col. Haultain, Messrs O'Rorke, Luckie, I. L. Prime, J. May. The business is pro ceeding as Aye go to press.