SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

ARRIVALS.

Stag, barque, Robinson, from Newcastle Bengal, barque, J. T. Hummil, from Adelaide Restless, brig, Fleck, from Newcastle Amaranth, schooner, Sainty. from Hokianga Fawn, cutter, from Russell Mana, cutter, McGuervey, from Tairua

DEPARTURES.

Taupo. s.s., for Southern ports Argyle. s.s., Stephenson, for Wangarei Circe, brigantine, Alexander, for Kaipara Ltetitia, schooner, Dickson, for Tonga

IMPORTS

Per Stag, from Newcastle : 429 tons coal, 9 tons coke.

Per Restless, from Newcastle: 436 tons coal.— Henderson and Macfarlaiie. Per Bengal, from Adelaide : 3,838 sacks wheat.

EXPORTS.

Per Taupo for the South--68 sacks oysters, 3 horses, 8 sacks onions, 10 cases sauce, 18 cases, 3 boxes, 29 packages. 1 bale and 1 jar—lreland Brothers Per Bella Mary, for Hobart Town : 44 tierces and 37 bags beef.

Entered Inwards.—lsabel, cutter, fromMatakaua, wi'h 27 tons firewood ; Fawn, cutter, from Russell, with 48 tons manganese ; Mana, cutter, from Tairua, with 22,500 feet of timber, and 47 bags gum : Mary Ann, cutter, from Cabbage Bay, with 46 tons of fire wood.

Cleaped OUTWARDS.—Adah, ketch, for Thames, with 20 sacks bran, 3S sacks wheat, aud sundries; Mary, schooner, for AVhangarei, in ballast; Isabel, cutter, for Matakana, in ballast; Mercury, cutter, for Tairua, with 20 kegs butter, 12 chests tea, 39 sacks wheat, and 30 hags horse feed; Avon, cutter, for Thames, with 35 sheep, and 9 head cattle ; Rover, schooner, for Whangarei, with 500 palings, 500 feet timber, and sundries; Spitfire, cutter, for Russell, in ballast ; Mary Ann, cutter, for Cabbage Bay, in ballast. The barque Stag arrived in harbour last night, from Newcastle, which port she left on the 6th instant. Bad weather was experienced during a great part of the passage, which lasted iS days. She bringa a cargo of coal and bark, and one passenger—Miss Biglow. The s.s. Argyle sailed last evening for Wan garei and Mangapai with passengers and cargo. The brigantine Circe sailed from Manukau Heads for Kaipara last evening, to load with timber for Lyttelton. The schooner Lsetitia sailed to-day for Tonga. The passenger and cargo list appeared in our last night's issue. Tne schooner Amaranth arrived at the Manu ka.ii yesterday from Hokianga. I The amount of entries collected at the. Customs to day, was ,£662 16s. sd. • The s.s. Taupo leaves this afternoon for the Southren pars v/ilh a general cargo, and the following passengers: —Mr and Mrs Gibson, Mr and Mrs White, Mr and Mrs Black, Mr and Mrs Jordan and son, Mr and Mrs McNeil, Mrs and Master Jordan, Mrs Selter and two infants. Mrs Brookfield, Misses Brookfield, Whim, McNeil, Messrs Johnstone, J Matthews, Currie, R. Churton, Home, Honi Peti, Allen, Quintal, Hardy, King, Mahonen, Yiule, Simon, F. Brookfield, J. Mills, R. Johnstone, R. Robertson, J. Robartson, Captain Maling, Hon. G. McLean, Rev Johnstone, and Master Eraithwaite. The barque Bella Mary cleared at the Customs to day for Hobart Town, and will sail to-morrow. The barque Bengal arrived in harbour from Adelaide this morniDg, after a passage of 21 days. Captain Hummil reports leaving Port Pirie on April 3rd ; experienced r-oderate south and south-east winds until the sih. ana north to north-east till tbe Sth. Light variable winds were then experienced until the 11th, since which time there was a continuance of northerly and westerly winds and fine weather until making the Three Kings on April 23rd. From thence to arrival, variable winds and dv 1 weather. Her cargo consists of wheat. Pas sengers :—Miss A. Hummil, and Mr "Win. Taylor. She is to come alongside the wharf to morrow. The brig Restless arrived in harbour to-day, from Newcastle, which port she left on the 6th. Light easterly winds were experienced till the Sth, and on the two following days squally weather, with heavy sea and rain. From the Hth to the 13th heavy S.E. gale, and very high sea, which moderated, next day, "when Lord Howe's Island was passed. From that 'time up to the 22nd, experienced light south-easterly winds. The Three Kings were passed on the day following. The Restless brings 436 tons coal, consigned to Messrs Henderson and Mac farlane. KAIPARA SHIPPING. 23rd April, 1878. Arrivals.—Ansdel), from Sydney, with 300 tons coal for P. and I. McLeod. Departures.—Derwent, brig, for Lyttelton ; Sarah Pile, schooner, for Lyttelton; Syren, for Sydney; Marmion, schooner, for Welling ton ; Julius Vofjel, schooner, for Wellington ; Clematis, for Wanganui; Lady Don, for Wan ganui.

MARRIAGE.

BADLEY—FRAPE.—On Apiillo, 187S, at the residence of tho bridegoom's father, by the Rev. John Warren, of Onehunga, John Badley, eldest son of James Badley, of Otaluihu, to Miss Frape. eldestdaugbter of William Frape, Esq., late of Bristol, England. NOLAN—ANGWIN.-On April 22, at St. Mark's Church, Remuera, by the Venerable Arch deacon Pritt, David Nolan, of Auckland, to Bessie Angwin, of Mudgec, N.S.W.

DEATH.

NUTTING.—On the 21th April, Emily Annie, eldest and beloved daughter of lib and Julia Nutting, aged 19. Tho funeral Avill leave her father's residence, Mount Roskill Road, on Friday, 28th instant, at 3 p.m. Friends aro respectfully invited. McCOSKRIE.—Tbis morning, at 2 o'clock, tho beloved AVife of Samuel McCoskrie, aged 17 years, at his residence, Hobso_i-strei_t, Auck land.

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

THURSDAY. APRIL 25. 1878.

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The cable news to-day speaks of a remark able concentration of Russian-troops in the vicinity of Constantinople. The reason alleged for the movement—an intended review—is e\*idently doubted. Ncav developments of Nihilism in Russia occa sion anxiety to the Government. The Nihilists arc a sect Avho hold opinions more AA'ild aud revolutionary than those pro pounded by French Communists. They adA'ocate the overturning of all existing institutions, in the belief that something more liberal Avili arise upon the ruins.

The expeditionary force from India, and tfc-O roj-orteel o_-tl.ui_iti--.vik wl_l*_l. _.!_._ _.»»_.a.-__irG has created throughout our pre-it K:is_..r>, O Empire, has not received tin. attention which its importance demands, That the first troops sent to the Mediterranean will be drawn from India, is doubtless intended by the Government to have a special significance. And the meaning is so obvious that even Russia can hardly• mistake it. To the vaunted hordes of the North, and the assertions of England's ~ military weakness, the Cabinet, by the Bombay expedition, practically says: ■'There is our reply." The movement declares the determination of the Govern ment to meet the swarms of the North with the myriads of the South, and to pit England's power of sustaining the struggle against that of Russia. Foreigners may be excused for undervaluing the gage, for probably few Englishmen fully realise what 0 it involves. Let us glance for a moment at W the resources which, exclusive oi the wealth i and patriotism of the thirty-four million inhabitants of the United Kingdom, Eng land may call to her aid from her Eastern possessions. The population of British India, in round numbers, is 190,000,000.; of the Feudatoiy States .viiich ne knowlcge the sway of the Empress and pay tribute, 50,000.000. _ The army in India numbers (.4,985 English, _ and 120,123 native troops, all well drilled, equipped, aud commanded by European officers. There is also a trained force now used for police service and frontier duty amounting to 100,000 men, chiefly officered by Europeans. The existing force under British command in India, therefore, is 280,000 men. But the Tributary States have independent armies, which the best Indian authorities believe would be immediately placed at the disposal ". of the Government for a war against Russia. The " Times" of India, a . leading Bombay journal, strongly sup -1 ports this belief: —"The armies of the * Native States number upwards of :.00,000 i men. They are badly aimed, indiiferently - drilled, and, as a rule, very badly officered. • But 500,000 of these soldiers, provisionally ' officered and armed by the Paramount Power, would be of great service ; and the Native States which lent them, would feel, for the first time, that they were contribut ing to the strength and security of the Empire and sharing in its glory. The Maharajah Scindiah could send 15,000 very fair troops ; he might be glad of the oppor tunity of leading them himself. Just twelve months ago the Viceroy aud Go vernor-General, in the name of Her Majesty, ! made him a General of the British Army, 1 lud gave him the title of "Sword of the Empire." Surely all that was done at Delhi in January last was not vain ceremony !It had a meaning, and the meaning was this— that the Empire of India, its Empress, its Princes, and its people, are bound together by reciprocal duties, are sharers of a common glory, and will partake of a common fur tune. " V7cmustri.se to theievel of the great destinies which await us, if we arc worthy of them." The . active armed force now exist-, _ ing in India, approaches G00,0:)0 men. But relative to the population, this number is trifling. The policy of using Indian troops once affirmed, the extent lo Avhich they may be used resolves itself into a mere question of money and 1 necessity. If the eighty-six million. 1 Russian subjects—poor, barbarous, and s scattered over a territory of more than 1 eight and-a-quarter million square miles— 1 have hung like a dark cloud over civilized I Europe for more than a century, what ' shall be said of the two hundred aud forty . millions, directed by the intelligence and t determination of a nation which holds x undisputed command of the sea; aud has 1 in its possession the purse-strings ot t Europe ! " Grauted " (says the " Times of 1 India ") that even half or three-fourths of c the population could not produce soldiers J capable of meeting on equal terms the ■ 0 troops of Russia, does any one doubt that— h led by British officers—the Sikhs, the p Pathatis, the Goorkhas, the Rajpoots, the \\ Mahrattas, could not withstand the d children of the Czar as strongly as the Turks v. at Plevna or in the Shipka Pass ? . . . The ' d

martial races that do not obey the Koran Avould gladly fight shoulder to shoulder Avith those who do in this Eastern quarrel. Their warlike instincts^and innate love of adventure Avould find an outlet ; and passions, which pent-up are a source of danger, Avould thus become an element of strength for the Empire." English soldiers Avho have encountered the Sikhs and Gourkhas in the field avill have no hesitation in backing them against the ill-fed, ill-led, and badly-armed irregulars Avho last year rolled back Avith great slaugh ter the tide of Russian invasion in Asia Minor. The great facilities in India for mobilisation and depoitation are also of material importance. The eighty-six mil lions of Russia, scattered over a Avide area of eight and-a-quarter miUions square miles have feav natural centres. The 250 millions of India, on the other hand, populate an area of less than nine hundred thousand square miles, opened by 6,947 miles of rail way. "We have,"'says the Bombay journal, from which we have already quoted, "railways to bring troops to the- Avater's edge, and at ease and at _ rest iv transports they Avould travel direct to Avhatever spot Aye might select to disembark them. Tbey would have no mountains to climb on their way, no tangled Avoods to cut through. Fresh aud ready they Avould reach the selected spot, and being at once brigaded with English soldiers, they would be dangerous engines of destruction to the half-disciplined levies of Russia, Avhich she must bring into the field if she means war to the death Food and aminu-

nition can be procured easily, and from Bom bay, from England and from the Mediter ranean, a constant flow of goods, clothing, and war material could all be carried by sea at small expense. The Suez Canal, which some have idly imagined has brought India -within the reach of the brigands, has really done the very reverse. The countless legions which the organising skill and the wealth of England can call forth from the soil of this vast peninsula may, thanks to M. de Lesscps, be conveyed to the Medi terranean, to the Black Sea, to Armenia, fo Varna, to the Caucasus, within a few weeks, without difficulty or danger." Possessed of a population of 34,000,000 patriotic native-born subjects ; using at pleasure an inexhaustible reserve in a people largely animated with military instincts, and from which an auxiliary force of indefinite strength may be drawn without in any way crippling the industrious pursuits and com merce of the nation ; with a command of money that no other nation can boast; with her own soil perfectly secure from in vasion, while her maritime resources enable her to choose the place of attack ; with in domitable resolution, which spurns the word "fail;" is there room to doubt what the issue would be if England felt it her duty to engage upon a series of campaigns in defence of the interests of the Empire. There are those—and this idea largely pre vails in Russia—who believe that India will be a source of weakness rather than strength in time of Avar; and that when looking to her subjects there for aid, the Empress of India is resting on a bruised reed. In answer to these fears, we may, in conclusion, give one more extract from the "Times of India,"and leave readers to judge: "A Avar against Russia Avould be highly popular in India and throughout the East. The Mogul and tho Pathan Avould gladly enlist, aud the Shiahs and the Tunis Avould stifle their animosities in vlcav of the Russian eagle. The Moslems of India regard the Avar against Turkey as a monstrous act of Avickedness and from the 118,000,000 of Mahommeduns in the East England could have all the material of Avar only for the making of it. for the numbers procurable are practically unlimited. "England can," says the Avriter, "by simply Avilling it, put in the field sush massesoftroops that even the Northern Colossus would have to yield to their supe rior numbers. Will anyone avlio gives the matter a moment's thought count tbis asser tion Avild or improbable ? Is it extravagant or unreasonable to declare thatGreatßri tain, Avith a population of 30,000,000, disposing of a population of 240,000,000 in India, cannot assemble iv camps and drill a riMo,? 11 °, 1 soldiers ? Russia, with a popu lation Of 60,000.000. Kpktmlv oovortna t-.~ Avildest and most inhospitable parts of Europe and Asia, can do as much. Eng land could, Avith the greatest ease, without crippling her commerce or putting any appreciable strain on the populations Avhich are swayed by the sceptre of Her Majesty, do far more."

Mr Alfred J. Evans wishes us to state publicly that he had nothing to do with the management of the Free Templars' Ball, but that Mr W. T. Donald was alone responsible. Mr Evans merely assisted in the vocal part of the previous entertain ment. To the Editor : Sir,—l thought the Building Act applied to all classes alike, but I find such is not the case. A short while ago I went to get a permit to erect a shed in Official Bay, and was told I would have to put on a galvanized iron roof. I mentioned that there was a building just erected in Eden Crescent that was shingled, and asked why not grant me the same privilege ? The reply was, lie did it first and got the permit after ; and now there is another new house being built and they are shingling it. I consider it is a great in justice to compel one portion of the com munity to fulfil the law and allow others to evade it.—Yours, &c, JUSTICE. At a sale of racing stock at Christchurch, yesterday, the following transactions were effected :—- Merrilie, to J. Turner, 70 guineas ; Standard-bearer, to A. 11. Roller son, 120 guineas; York, D. O'Brien, 330 guineas; Atlantic, A. H. Rollerson, 130 guineas ; Pacific, to M. Gilligan, 37 guineas; Luna, to H. Oram, 240 guineas; SirTatton, to D. O'Brien, 100 guineas ; filly, by Tra ducer, dam Opera, J. Brandon, 150 guineas ; filly, by Castaway, dam Moss Rose, Mr Todhuntcr, 50 guineas j filly, by Albany, dam Red Rose, 11. Redwood, 35 guineas ; colt, by Castaway, dam Patrician, 30 guineas; Oberon, Mr Kitchen, 260 guineas; Atlantic, Mr Kitchen, 240 guineas ; Moun tain, Mr Kitchen, ISO guineas ; the Chief Mary, 100 guineas. Fishhook was passed at-800 guineas, Mousetrap at 275 guineas. ■?"'?A Gisborne paper lately fell into an absurd blunder, by ascribing the place wherein a service of song was h6ld by Sunday - school children to the|.|Masonic " hotel," instead of " hall." The settling of bets on the late races w proceeded with at the City Club Hotel las night. The bookmakers complain that it was not altogether satisfactory, as many of tho losing backers failed to put in an appear ance. During the course of to-day, however, matters will, no doubt, be arranged The settling on the late races will take place at Mr Percival's office to-morrow afternoon, about four o'clock.- We understand that the protest against Perfume for the second place in the Hurdle Race will then be re opened. Rumour saith that the matter will go against Mr McGea, but, as it is sub judico, we venture no opinion. "VVe heard it; rumoured that a match was to be arranged between Elsa and Walters' best, at even weights. The affair has, however, fallen through. A visitor to the Circus, who describes his experiences in the " Waikato Times," tells the following story :--" I heard an amusing story anent two Ministers who had gone to the Show the day before to inspect privately the arrangements, &c. They were the Hon. J. Fisher, and the Hon. J. Sheehan. A policeman was sent for five shillings' worth of biscuits, and on his return the two -'swells" began feeding the large African elephant with the cakes. After a little while they transferred their attention to the smaller fry, when the '' papa" becoming indignant uttered the trumpet \ cry, and levelling his trunk at the Native Minister discharged a quantity of fluid all 1 ovei his spotless vest. The notorious good- ' liumour of the "First Colonial Born" being 1 proof again.st even this demonstration of < 11-will, the sagacious beast turned and did i litto to the Hon. Fisher. A fellow who i .vas there said that gentleman swore, but I i luu't believe him." t J t

A circular Avas sent yesterday to all heads of departments in Wellington instructing them to intorm all officers that they can no longer depend upon the 40th section of the Civil Service Act, 1866, granting a gratuity to their Avives and families after they die. The circular adds that it is uoav open to officers to provide for their Avives and families by means of Government Life Insurance.

An Order-in-Council, issued in Welling ton yesterday, announces that no cadetship in the Civil Service Avill count till the cadet receives over £100 per annum. Near Masterton, in the Wellington Pro vincial district, a man named Welsh Avas knocked off his horse and robbed of £17 by tAvo footpads, one of Avhom has been identified as a resident in the neighbour hood.

At Wanganui the Grand Jury threAV out tho bill against LeAvis Lyons Levy, a dealer in toys and fancy goods, Avho Avas com mitted several months ago on a charge of setting fire to his shop in order to obtain the insurance money. Hokitika must be a nice place just now. A local journal, the "Westland Advertiser," says :—" The people of Hokitika are unfor tunately but too familiar just vow with la.v and bankruptcy to need any incentive to consider this question. A complete mania for getting " white washed " appears lately to have overspread the community, and the cry is " still they come." According to the same paper, Avhen two men meet in the street they do not salute with "hoAV arc you getting on," but "lioay are you getting off?"

The coroner, Dr. Goldsbro, on the inquest touching the death of McElroy, yesterday, at the hospital, Avas kept in waiting a con sideiable time by a Avant of promptitude on the part of one of the jurymen. The coroner reprimanded the late juryman, and told him he Avas liable to a fine of £10 for his con duct, and it would be necessary ere long to make an example of some one in order to secure punctuality on the part of jurymen in adjourned case.?. The particulars©! the evidence at the inquest appeared in our last.

The Coromandel frog, noAV iv the Auck land Museum, has been beaten so far as the depth of his hiding place is concerned by a Ballarat frog, Avhich was found in a corner of the shaft of the New Eureka Company, at a depth of 170 ft., in solid sandstone. The frog Avas taken to the surface, and every effort made to keep it alive, but Avithout avail.

A little fair boy, api>arently about IS months old, avus found straying in Synionds-street on Tuesday afternoon, and brought to the NeAvtou Police-station. Up to the present time he does not seem to have been claimed, but Constable Abrams is taking every care of him. A Waikato correspondent Avrites that "The current joke relates to a big Waikato settler, .vhoso previous relations Avith Sir George Grey have not been of the most friendly character. When the Premier visited Hamilton, the great man Hocked, with other settlers, to Avelcome him, and ap proached,jwith gushinglcordiality,- to shake hands—a move to Avhich Sir Geoige, in his earnest conversation with other settlers, Avas singularly blind. The public meeting and vote of coniidence poured fat in the lire of the great man's wrath, and several Avorkmen who had taken part in it next day learned that their services Avere dispensed Avith*; Avhile one or two store keepers have been told to render their ac counts, a., the great man linds it Avill be cheaper to get his supplies from Auckland. This is the kind of thing that might have happened every day if Sir Geoige Grey had not entered public life." Osrnan Pasha, iioav a prisoner in Russia, Avho has seven Avives at home, is said to enjoy foreign captivity hugely. In fact, Osman is having a regular holiday. A concert and ball were held on Mouday cveuing in the Cambridge Toavu Hall, for the purpose of removing the debt existing on the Catholic Church of the district. The coucert Avas of a vocal and instrumental character, at Avhich a number of friends from Auckland were present. The concert Avas largely patronised, and the debt on the church considerably reduced by the pro-

Slr'EJ. V. Bastard, uia_mycr vi me _-_.<..-_. >v land Branch of Messrs Sargood, Son, and E .yen's firm, is about to leave Auckland for the South, and the many friends he has made during his residence here propose to entertain him at a banquet before leaving. Combining keen business habits -with general social qualities, feav city men are better known and esteemed, and his departure Avill be generally regretted. It is understood that the linn contemplate abolishing the Auckland branch.

A little girl of six years old, named Boyd, Avho got separated from her party in the circus yesterdayafternoon, Avas kindly taken charge of by the police, Avho brought her to the central station, where she slept. This morning her mother called for her.

An ordinary meeting of the Improvement Commissioners was to have been held this morning, but only Messrs Chambers, O'Rorke, and His Worship tho Mayor Avere present. .After AA'aiting an hour, the meeting Avas adjourned until 11 o'clock to-morrow morning. The first meeting of creditors in the estate of Percy Vaughan, accountant Avas held thismorniugin the Supreme Court buildings. Tho bankrupt's liabilities Avas set down at £92 Is. 6d. assets nil, Mr Macfarlarie was appointed trustee to bankrupt's estate.

An effort Avill be made on Tuesday evening next by the settlers of Newmarket to restore the languishing life of their long-silent Literary Institute and reading-room. The meeting is called for the purpose of taking preliminary steps toAvards a gift auction and concert in aid of the funds.

With reference to the comet observed at Cambridge, Aye have received tho folloAving confirmatory letter : " Sir, —I can verify Mr Cooke's report concerning the comet alluded to in your yesterday's issue, as at the instance of Mr L. W. Williams at Cambridge I looked for and Avas enabled to take three.separate observations of same at a little past 11 a.m., particulars of which I handed to Mr Williams.—Yours, &c, William S. GRAHAM, Licensed Surveyor, Tamahere Estate, Waikato."

THE CIRCUS.

The Circus of Messrs Cooper and Bailey Avas completely filled last night by a large portion of the population of this cit}*, and much interest and enthusiasm Avas ex hibited, especially by the younger part of that immense auditory. The programme of the Circus comprised 15 scenes, faithfully executed, and included a variety of exhibi tions to meet every taste. The grandest scene of all was undoubtedly the really splendid introductory pageant and Mardi Gras Carnival, forming a grand procession of men aud animals, gaily robed, by the Avhole of the company. The performing elephant Avas a Avonder, and the care exercised by this ponderous animal in stopping over the prostrate body of his trainer —Professor Johnson—was equally Avonderful.. The programme of the per formances being the same as on the previous night, there is no necessity to " use vain repetitions." The female Samson ex hibited her physical strength in singular degrees, to the astonishment of the spectators. The serial wonders and Japanese tricks Avere exceedingly clever • also the extraordinary leaps of about 18 members of the company in rapid suc cession. The comic bits of Messrs Cassim aud Fritz served to fill a pause, whilst the people Avere Avaiting for something better. Another interval Avas made pleasant by- Professor Warn bold and his troop of doc-s ---hut one of the cleverest and deservedly admired performances Avas Martinh'o LoAvande in his electrifying act, with no less than eight beautiful steeds. This act was ereatly applauded. The other enter tainments included a concert, tinder the direction of Mr Middleton, in which a number of negro eccentricities AA*ere introduced, and songs and dances per formed. The learned pigs made their boav to a gratified assemblage. The programme

of the associated entertainments will b repeated to-night.

THIS AFTERNOON.

THE CHILDREN AT THE CIRCUS.

The children of the Neglected Home, Orphan Home at Parnell, and Naval I rain ing School, were hospitably entertained at the circus this afternoon by His Worship the Mayor, who also provided every young ster with a I of a pound of lollies and as many buus as he or she could comfortably put away. The sight Avas a very pleasant one foi the children enjoyed themselves thoroughl vand their wondering exclama tions of Bui prise and delight, which broke out again and again during the performance must have satisfied their entertainer that the treat was, indeed, heartily appreciated. The muster was as under : Neglected Homo, 145; Orphan Home, Parnell, 50; Boys Training Ship, 64 ; total, 259. The pupils of the Devoiiport districtschool to the number of 145 also attended under their teacher Mr Smith.

THE TIPPLING ACT.

The question of Avhether or not what is known as " The Tippling Act" is in force in the Colony, was brought for the first time as a matter of appeal for the decision of tho Supremo Court at Dunedin. For many years the general practice has been to assume that the Act is in operation, and items for alcoholic liquors supplied in small quantities have been systematically struck out of accounts for the recovery of which judgment has been obtained in Magistrate s Courts, mis, however, has not been the invariable practice, and the case Avhich was brought before the Court on appeal was one 111 which the Magis trate decided that the plaintiff could recover from tho defendant, and that 12 sec, chap 10,- ot tho Act of George 11, 1751, was not in force in the Colony. The clause referred to provides " That Strom and after the Ist July, 1.51, no person or persons Avhatsoover shall be entitled unto or to maintain any cause, action, or suit for or sums of money Avhatever, for, or on account of any spirituous liquors, unless such debt shall have really been and bona fide con tracted at one time, to the amount of 20s or up wards." Under this provision of the statute claims for liquors supplied in its terms have been disallowed, and the question whether or not the statute is in force is of general impor tance, as it affects the practice of the Courts. The case was fully argued before Mr Justice Johnston. His Honor reserved mdgment, and suKi?<-sted tho advisability of taking the case to the Court of Appeal, so as to have the question Avhether the statute was adopted under the English LaAvs Act, ISSB, conclusively settled. Yesterday, however, His Honor gave judgment, and upheld the generally-received view that he Tippling Act of George H. is in lorce in the tolony. .

FURTHER CENSUS RETURNS.

By the courtesy of Mr J. King, Chief Cen sus Enumerator for the Auckland district Aye are enabled to give the cesus returns for the two remaining districts, which are as fol low :—

Waitakerei, Waitemata Electorate.— Males, 170; remales, 133 ; total, 303. Kaukapakapa, Rodney Electorate.— Males, 16G; females, So ; total, 251.

CABLEGRAMS.

Russian Troops Mustering at Constantinople.

Alaaming Nihilist Conspiracies

(SPECIAL TO PRESS AGENCY.)

LONDON.

Fresh troops continue to arrive at St. Stephano, a few miles from Con stantinople, under pretext of a grand

review.

Nihilist commotions in Russia alarm the Government.

The British Reserves.

PLOT TO OVERTHROW THE SULTAN,

(BEUTER'S SPECIAL TELEGRAMS)

LONDON, April 23. The British Reserves are mustering largely. The " Daily Ncavs" Stamboul correspon- that a plot of the partizans of Midhat r «._.__**»— ■£-.■_■__ -_.__:_._j. _- ~~,. throw the Government of the Sultan. The ncAY Turkish Ministry are suspected of complicity in the matter. The Sultan is preparing to proceed to Broussa, fearing that the Russians Avill make a surprise by capturing Constanti-

liople. An attempt to shoot Prince Thuro, the Equerry to the Emperor of Austria, has been made. The assassion Avas arrested.

AUSTRALIAN.

[RECITER'S SPECIAL CABLEGRAM.]

SYDNEY, April 24.

PACIFIC MAIL SERVICE.

The Assembly has agreed to a modified contract for the Pacific Mail Service.

AUTUMN RANDWICK MEETING.

At the Autumn Race Meeting on the RandAvick course, on the second day, the foilo.ving races resulted a-< is given beloAV : —

Flying Handicap.—Emily, 1 ; Napper Tandy, 2 ; BronzeAving, 3.

Autumn Maiden Stakes.—Penrith, 1 ; Rosoberry, 2 ; Mile fa, 3.

Breeders' Plate, —BosAvorth, 1; His Lord ship, 2 ; Alaric, 3.

Sydney Cup.—Pemocoat, 1 ; Strathearn, 2 ; Maccaroni, 3.

Selling Plate.—Chevalier, 1 ; Kitty, 2 ; Lord Lyon, 3.

Waverley Stakes—Napper Tandy, 1 ; Freemason, 2 ; Jasper, 3. Chester's yearling Brother St. George, Avas sold yesterday for the Middle Bark Stud Company of New Zealand, for 1,300 guineas. It is thought that efforts Avill be made to keep the horse in the colony.

LICENSED VICTUALLERS ASSOCIA TION.

A SPEctal meeting of the Licensed Victuallers Association avas held this afternoon to elect a Permanent Seoretarr, Mr Henry Keano in the ei}ft' r *T.?-*§. H ,' Phillips reported on the conduct ol Mr H. i uller. On his asking for the box and documents belonging to the Society, Mr Fuller grew angry, and stated his determination to do all in his po ver in opposition to the interest of the Association.-Somo discussion followed, in Avhich Messrs. Avey, Leslie, Gorman, and other gentlemen took part.—Ultimately it Avas re solved, on the motion of Mr Stafford, "That the Secretary must bo a Licensed Victualler ;" and Mr Phillips proposed, and Mr Campbell seconded, "That the Association advertise for a Permanent Secretary-tlie Chairman to define «,£, 1 fcl, es'—^-s.w^nsreedto. and a vote of tliaukt. to tho Chairman closed the meeting.

DEPUTATIONS.

MR Cadman and others from Coromandel Avaited upon the Hon. the Native Minister this morning, and represented a grant in aid of the tunnel. The Hon. the Native Minister promised to bring the matter under the notice of the Cabinet. Messrs Brodie and Macdonald Avaited upon Mr Sheehan Avith reference to the obstructions of Tukukino to the progress of the road Avords.

Mr Sheehan promised to visit the district on his return from the Waikato.

HASTINGS (TAPU CREEK).

i Last evening every family in Tapu-'and sur friends from Grahamstown, met to-etker in the iSSE lio a1 -' aiKl Went one of $° pleasantest evenings we have ever had h»re the occasion being a grand concert Lid ball held for the purpose of provHir- fr.nds to fence n tat P Cwm t9i l7' ■ Th? 'P'^eds, lam happy to tate. will be amply suiikucnt to do so. Miss piano ,y„n?i Ui;, SChOOI ,ca,cher> Prided at the SV? Sail ff sevol'al songs. Mrs Payue took n^ ban MtOW,^ nc. eisht gentlemen also iook part. Mr McFarlane preside-, rt «. n concert, which was followed bfVdan^e he _ MINING. lJUiX'ON.—McLiver and party had a cm .hint. avlnch y elded at the rate of 8 d wts to the toning inTnJ and party Vrushed EXTENDKD.-SteA-ens and party have ISO r-« this mw aSk U °U hnUd ' uad Tome timl

BANK OF NEW ZEALAND.

THIRTY-THIRD HALF-YEARLY MEETING.

THE thirty-third half-yearly meeting of the proprietors of the Bank of New Zealand was hold in the Board-room of the bank Queen-street, at noon to-day. There Avas a large attendance, Dr J. L. Campbell Chairman of the Board of Directors, pre' siding. D. L. Murdoch, Esq., Inspector, read the advertisement convening the meeting from the Auckland Evening Stae. minutes. He also read the minutes of the last half, yearly meeting, which Avere confirmed. KEPORT AND BALANCE-SHEET. The luspector then read the following Directors' Report and Balance-sheet:— The Directors have much pleasure in again meeting shareholders with a favourable report Avhich affords evidence of continued progress and success. Tho net profit at 31st March, after making ample appropriation for all bad and doubtful dependencies, and for reduction of Bank premises and furniture, amounts to £82 567 19s Id; to Avhich has to be added—balance of undivided profit at 30th September, 1877, Hi 790 4s 5d : making a total available for diyißion of £84,358 3s 9d. The following appropriation of which is now recommended:—To payment of dividend at the rate of 10 per cent, per annum, £36,250 ; bonus of os per share, equal to 5 per cent, per annum £18,125; proposed increase to Reserve Fund* £25,000 ; balance carried to Profit and Loss New Account, £4,983 3a 9d: total, £84,358 3s 9d. The dividend and bonus Avill be payable at Head Ofiice, Auckland, on Friday, the 26th April, aud at Branches on receipt of advice — For the Board of Directors, J. Logan Campbell President. ' BALANCE-SHEET. Dr. £ s.d. Bank Stock 725,000 0 0 Reserve Fund 300,000 0 0 Notes in circulation 502,557 0 0 Bills Payable in circulation ..2,138,674 5 5 Deposits and other liabilities .. 6,800,070 4 g Balance ot Pro.it and Loss at Sep tember 30, 1877 1,790 4 _ Net Profit for half-year .. .. 82,567 19 4 £10,550,695 13~11 Cr. Coin and Cash Balances .. .. 972,834 6 9 Bullion on hand and in transitu .. 452,880 11 0 Government Securities .. .. 770,000 0 0 Bills Receivable and Securities in London 2,073,104 1410 Landed Property, Bank Premises, Furniture, &c 121,31115 4 Bills Discounted, and other debts due to tho Bank 0,157,528 8 0 £10,550,659 13U PROFIT AXU LOSS ACCOUNT. ■£ s. d. To Dividend at rate of 10 per cent. per annum 36,250 0 0 ~ Bonus of 03 per share .. .. 18,125 0 „ Proposed increase to Reserve Fund 25,000 3 ~ Balance carried to Profit and Loss, new account .. .. 4,983 3 £84,358 3 9 By Balance of Profit and Loss at 31st March, 1878 82,567 19 4 „ Balance from last half-year .. 1,790 4 5 ' £84.353 3 9 KESERA*E FUND. £ s. d To Balance .. 325,000 6 0 £325,000 0 0 By Balance from labt statement .. 300,000 0 0 „ Proposed addition 25,000 0 0 £325,000 0 Q AiifHtrr. i G' P-PIERCE, Audited - ( B>ToSKSi THE CHAIRMAN'S SPEECH. The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the report and balance-sheet, safd : — Gentlemen, —It has been the- good for tune of the occupant of this chair, I may almost say from the first meeting of the Bank, to have only congratulatory remarks to make to shareholders ; and the present occasion proves no exception to the rule. The report, Avhich has just been read will, I am sure, commend itself to you as evi dence of the Bank's continued prosperity; and, favourable as that report is, it would have been materially better but for special causes; the principal one being the con tinued depressiou on the West Coast of the Middle Island, Avhich has entailed con siderable loss on the bank, but Avhich, I am happy to assure you, has been amply pro vided for out of current profits. A case of default has also con tributed to swell losses, V....... +l,_a IIL-oun'-o baa Kn__u fnllv DrCyM"™ for, aud it is a pleasure to assure share holders that such cases iv our experience are extremely rare ; in fact, are so excep tional as to reflect the highest credit on the character of the Bank's large staff. Another heavy charge upon profits has been the necessity of extending the Bank's agencies indirections Avhich do not become "imme diately remunerative. Ifeelassured,however, that shareholders will heartily endorse the action of the Board in this matter; the aim of the Directors being to make this insti-; tution the Bank of New Zealand in reality as AA-ell as in name. No opportunity there •fore is lost, Avhich, either from present appearances or future prospects, offers a fair chance of success, to extend to outlying districts the benefits of banking facilities. Your Directors consider they best conserve the general interests of proprietors by pur suing this policy • thus enlisting the sym pathies of the general public, even though at a sacrifice of immediate profits, which ... are not the sole aim of this institution. We are no.v represented at no less than eighty-four localities in NeAV Zealand alone, aud shareholders Avho have had an oppor tunity of seeing the handsome structures erected at most of these places will regard with satisfaction the comparatively small amount represented iv the balance sheet by landed property, bank premises, and fur- niture—an amount Avhich does not more than represent the real A'alue of premises at Head Office and tAVO or three of the principal branches; the cost of the Avhole of the remainder having been defrayed out of profits. Shareholders, I am confident, AA-ill confirm the action of the _ Board in recommending a further addition of £25,000 to the Reserve Fund, which, with such addition, Avill stand at the grati fying sum of 325,000. Nothing can more conduce to increase public confidence in the, institution than the continued eAadence pi the shareholders' desire to strengthen their reserve, rather than increase their dividend; and Avi_.cn we consider that Aye have-madea return of fifteen per cent for the past eleven years—Avith two exceptions, when a reduc tion of t\vo-and-a-hali per cent was ina^'" and that your Reserve Fund has,Avithin that period, grown from £150,000 to its present amount, there cannot be other than a feel, ing of satisfaction at the policy pursued Dj. the Board. The figures iv the Bahtnce Sheet Avill commend themselves to share-; holders as evidences of a progressive pusi j ness. Their magnitude, and the consequent.... ; , heavyresponsibilitydevolviugonyournoaff j have a not-unimportant bearing on a <!«* | tiou Avhich will come before you at »»PW'' 1 General Meeting, to beheld immediately [ after this one closes. There has been an increase of circulation, deposits, and ow« liabilities, of about£73o.ooo • Avhile advance under all heads sheAv an increase of \?"|f..\ £800,000 • other balances remaining nmctiw the same position as in last statemep, Allow me to invite your attention to »P noticeable feature in the records otoaDS in the adjoining colonies, which was a rew influence in the business of f eJ^ n i_: . N. Z. The sworn averages of .^.{g I shew, that during the past year m v«^ fl{ I alone, there has been the vast «P»gJJ j three' and-a-half millions in «ffi'. j against an increase iv deposits jtWLjjl I one and-a-half millions, and there *£ comDensating feature in the P averages of other colonies, inj^**"*, .■:s£ Avliich a considerable proportion.^ Bank's capital appears to be employ?> • .^,,, effect is seen in this' «W,J£jih> j extreme rates offered for -^Vto i a policy which though ? ecf/%jgß J adjust the capital accounts^fejfa&F l Banks,is certainly not calculatea w v _ ..„. the ml crests of New Zealand, w^ a . j sequence of which must me/ rates • j groAAdng scarcity of money, ana jjjff,'. for it.° So far as prudence irjl^ j Aye protect our own eP°f-^n TBP- 5' ' such a pressure in the K»ejw» y-jjjge | no effort of ours can V*^&M f amount of the otherwise avanaw j.^ | of the colony finding its way

EVENING STAR, THURSDAY APRIL 25, 1878



fi It EA T E S T SHOW OF JDress (jtoods AT THE CITY HALL ARCADE,! QUKEN-STJ-VB-KT. j HOLLOWAY, GARLICK, & CRANWELL. GREATEST SHOW OF FURNITURE AND CARPETS AT THE CITY HALL ARCADE. HOLLOWAY, GARLICK, & CRANWELL. FOR BEDROOM FURNITURE DRAWING-ROOM FURNITURE SITTING-ROOM FURNITURE KITCHEN FURNITURE DRAPERY and MILLINERY MEN'S and BOYS' CLOTHING CURTAINS and CRETONNES BLANKETS and SHEETINGS FANCY GOODS FOR PRESENTS Go TO THE |T_TY O~ALL A RCADE, Ealloway, G-ariiok & Cranwell, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND. A_® LINABUKY & C DRESSMAKERS and MILLINERS. NEW DRESS MATERIALS. A Large Assortment of New Dress Goods or the present Season, in every fashionable shade, Just Opened up at A. LINABURY & CO.'S. NEW WINTER COSTUMES, NEW MANTLES, NEW ULSTERS, NEW MILLINERY, NEW HATS A Large Assortment of Paris Trimmed Hats and Bonnets Just Opened up. Also, Hosiery. Silk T.-.3, Umbrellas, Collars and Cuffs, Gloves, Chilure s Mantles and Jackets. Also, A LARGE STOCK OF NOVELTIES, Which are Cheap, and will have quick sale. 533- Look if at "©ft A. LINABURY &' CO.'S, 201 & 206, queen-street, Auckland. BONEDU ST! BONEDUST BONEDUSTI To ArriA*e. per Hero 100 TONS BONEDUST. Also, j Just Landed, ex Borough Belie: _ FINE SAMPLE OF BILLYARD'S No. 1 BONEDUST. W. J. HURST & CO., 101, Queen-street. jMLOVER SEEDS, RYE GRASS, &c, On Sale, ex Late Arrivals: OIiOVER SEEDS, CONSISTING OF White Clover Timothy Red Clover S api*., Cow Grass Trefoil Alsyko Sec, Sec, Sec. Turnip ALSO, 200 bushels ENGLISH PERENNIAL RYE GRASS „„„_-,« 50 bushels ENGLISH POA PRATENSIS 500 lbs. INDIAN DOOB GRASS ?1,000 lbs. ALFALFA L2,0'.0 lbs. AMERICAN TIMOTHY. AND A Fine Collection of Farm and Garden Seeds. ! i The above have arrived in first-class condition. giSainp.es will ba forwarded on application. •-.Poverty Bar, Canterbury, and local Rye Grass* J Cocksfoot. ItatHtail, Poas Fegcues, &c. &c. from care.ully selectod samples, at lo west mar ket rales.. r W._J. HURST & CO., I v Queen-street.



FTNION BANK OF AUSTRALIA. ESTABLISHED 1837. Paid-up Capital £1,250,000 Reserve Funds 150,000 Notice is hereby given that the Third Instal ment of £15 per Share on tho New Shares issued by this Bank, under resolutions passed at the Special General Meetings of the Proprietors, held in London on the 11th and 30th January, 1878, is due and payable at this Office, on the loth day of May, and that All Shares are liable to forfeiture, under the Bank's Deed of Settlement, if the Call be not punctually paid. JOSH. PALMER, Chief Officer for New Zealand. Chief Officer's Department, Union Bank of Australia, Christchurch, 16th March, 1878. jT| RAPERY ! lf\ RAPERY «2T NEW SEASON GOODS ! ! SOMERFIELD AND LECK In taking this opportunity to address their numerous friends and tho general public, desire to express thanks for liberal patronage, and beg • to introduce to their notice a very Superior Selection of Goods ex Cbasca, Fontenayo, and Chili, NOW OPKNING, comprising Blankets, Flannels, Calicos, Shirtings, Sheetings, Tick ings, Winceys, Satin Cloths, All Wool Serges, Hosiery, &c , All Wool Shawls, &c. Mkn's and Boys' Clothing. Moleskins, Corduroys, Tweeds, fee. This Large and Well-assorted Stock, having been Purelinsed for Cash in the over-stocked English Markets, is Now Offered for Salk at Prices Lower than Ever Heari! op in Auckland. Inspection Invited. m VERY SPECIAL LINE. HEAVY Hi FAMILY BLANKETS, at 17S Gd. Country Orders will have special attention. Hawkers Supplied at Wholesale Prices. SOMERFIELD & LECK, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. ~\ MAGNIMCENT STOCK of NEW AUTUMN AND WINTER! DRESS MATERIALS Just Opened. H« A TKINS Invites attention to his Stock of New Dress Materials, Ladies Jackets, Ulsters, Black and Coloured Siilcs, Velvets, Velve teens, Sec, suitable for the coming Season. Now on View. Splen did Colours in New Silk Reps, Wool Rons, Wool Poplinettes. Satin Cloths, Wool Serg-»ja.*willed Carmelites, Estamane Serges, French Merino*., Winseys, and Fancy Dress Goods. All splendid value. All the new shades pro curable in Stock. The selection i this season is the largest and best . ever shewn in the city. Good quality Black Silk at 3s lid per yard. All the new shades in Coloured Silks. Also Good Che.ip I Blankets. Quilts, Sheetings, Table Linen, Flannels, Calico 3, and . Manchester Goods. IN TOK CLOTHING DEP AR T MjE.N T New Tweed Suits. Coats, Trow sers and Vests suitable for all clasnes. A largo Stock of Boy's and Youth's Tweed Suits, in our own make and imported. An immense stock of New Tweeds in Bannockburn, Mosgiel, Scotch, West of England, &c. Tailors can select from the largest stock in Auckland at Wholesale Prices. Cheap Tweeds suitable for Boy's wear. Good Quality Guaranteed, and Prices Lowest in Auckland fop. All Descriptions of Drapery and CLOTim.G. tssr H. A TKIKB.*» I" ADIES AND GENTLEMEN about to JL__ FURNISH are reminded that ONE OF THE LARGEST STOCKS IN THE COLONY OF FURNITURE CARPETS FLOORCLOTHS BEDDING, Sec, Sec, Sec Is on Salk at T. & H_ Cooke's furnishing warehouse 67, Queen-street. : mo AGRICULTURISTS & OTHERS' W . J. HURST Se CO. have on sale the under mentioned Fertilizers, ail 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 1; era use of them. The flattering Testi monials from leading Farmers justify W. J. Hurst & Co. in strongly commending them to every Agriculturist :— MALDEN ISLAND GUANO PERUVIAN GUANO MEXICA.N do. BELLS BONIS FLOUR _ and i-inch BONED UST BILLYAROS No. 1 do. NITRATE Oh' SODA SULPHATE OF AMMONIA MURIATE OF POTASH SUPER-PHOSPHATE OF LIMB. SALT, SULPHATh. OF LIME. la addition to the above, W. J. 11. & (Jo. are prepared to supply special Chemical Manures for Stimulating weak Corn Crops, and renovat ing Clover-sick Pastures, as well as the Potato and Mangold mixture that for the last two sea sons has att-aeted such favourable notice. Analysis, p. -'8. and other particulars will bo ied onapp. -aticn at the Stores. YV. J. HURST & cc, 101, Queen treet. A UTUMN AND WINTER, 1878* The undersigned are bringing fo ward Large Parcels of NEW GOODS __or the Incoming Season's Trade, Comprising GENERAL DRAPERY and CLOTHING Of Every Description. Entirely New and Well Bou&ht both as regards Quality and Price. Particulars in future issu . Inspectionlnvited. FIVE PER CENT. (Is. in the £), ! ALLOWED ON ALL CASH PUR- ] CHASES..OF 20s. and UPWARDS. 1 ] IVUSHBBOOK AND BrIDGMAN, < DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, &0., t JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE J (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel), j JPPER QUEEN-STREET, c AUCKLAND. ja



TTVISSOLUTION OF PARTNERSHIP, j The Partnership hitherto existing between j J. COSGRAVE AND W. GRAHAM Trading under the style of firm of J. COSGRAVE & CO., MERCHANTS AND IMPORTERS Queen-street, Auckland, Is about to be Dissolved by mutual cousent; and in order to Wind-up the Partnership Accounts, the ENTIRE STOCK, Consisting of over FIFTY THOUSAND POUNDS WORTH OF DRAPERY & MEN'S CLOTHING, WILL BE && Disposed of at Cost Price \ "®» All Accounts owing to J. Cosgrave and Co. must be paid forthwith. No Goods will be Entered daring the Sale. The Premises were Opened ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, When the Sale Commenced. J. COSGRAVE & CO.



We are counselled by tho wise not to put our trust in princes; but we are also counselled that the sick need the physician. There are now so many, and all of so conflicting a tendency, that the sick are unhappily but too" often bewildered, and in despair, apt to abandon all efforts to re gain the lost health. The trustworthy friend i 3 now at hand. The most marvellous cures have been effected by "Ghollah'a Great ludiun Cures." Sick people, try them. Both in flavour and effect Udolpiio Wolfe s Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps is the very antipodes of the cheap counterfeits of that in effable medicinal beverage which are sold in bottles in which 'the real elixir was previously contained. The true Schnapps confer health and strength and aro palatable in the highest degree. The counterfeits are most pernicious and disagreeable.