SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

„„ ~ ~,,m,,n (This Afternoon, 4.53 (Hew v A , i.t.--) To _ morl . ow Morning, 5.11 SO NT S re'".— Th is Evening, 5.13 fl-N RIRF. —To-uiorrow Mornin*., 0.44 MOON'S AG n:;—New Moon, 3rd, 0.29 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

Wanaka, s.s., McGillivray, from Southern ports Go-ahead, s.s., Helander. from Gisborne Staff-, s.s., Bilker, from East Coast Telegranh. schooner. Doughty, from East Coast Hauraki p.s., Holmes, from Waitara Reward, schooner,'Caitcheon, from Russell Go'd*>a Isle, schooner. Watts, from Russell Taiaroa, s.s.. Kennedy, from the South Wolverine, H.M.S., Hoskins, from Russell Venus, ketch. King, from Napier Ne^s, cutter. Dowd, from Waiheke Gipsy, cutter, from Russell

DEPARTURES.

Ocean, schooner, Rawlings. for Mercury Bay Fawn, cutter, Jansen, for Russell Christina, schooner, Edwards, for Russell Man i, cutter, Megu»rney, for Tairua Fanny, cutterr, Ricketts, for Whangapoua

IMPORTS.

Per Wanaka, from Southern ports :— 65 spcl.3 o.tmeal, 20 hhds. ale, 61 bags bone dust, 89 sacks malt, 4 bales paper, 6 coils lead pipe, 5G eases, 5 packages, 3 boxes. 4 bales oaper.—Wilson & Horton. 1 cse.—Owen Se Graham.

Per Tiaroa. from Nelson :— 150"cases apples.—L. W. Eaton

EXPORTS.

Per Vv nnaka. for Russell: — 17 cases brandy, 2 cases, 2 bags, 1 package.

Entkrkd Inwards.—Golden Isle, schooner, from RiKseli. with 98 tons coal; Ness, cutter, from Waiheke, with 48i tons manganese and 54.500 feet timber : South Carolina, cutter, from Barrier, with 51 tons wood : Maid of the Mill, barge, from Puhoi, with 20,000 feet timber ;. Telegraph, schooner, from East Coast potts, with 17 bales wool, 19 bales fungu., and 7 ox hides.

Cleared Outwards.—Minnie Hare, schooner for Russell, in ballast; South Carolina, cutter, for .Barrier, in ballast; Wahapu, cutter, for the Lake, in ballast; Fanny Kelly, ketch, for Wangaron, with 1,000 feet timlier, 12 casks beef, 10 bag* oats, 10 bundles hay, 10 sacks chaff, 10 sacks bran, and sundries. The s.s. Taiaroa, Captain Kennedy, arrived in the Manukau to-day. She left Lyttelton at 3.15 p.m. on Thursday 25th ; arrived in Welling ton or. Friday 26th at 8 a.m. She left the same evening at 8 and arrived off Nelson at C a.m. on Saturday 27th; left Nelson same evening at 5.30., and anchored outside until midnight, when the ens. Kennedy transhipped mails and passen gers from the West Coast. Arrived at New Plymouth at 3 p.m. on Sunday 2Sth, and only landed passengers, mails, and portion.of cargo, there being a heavy sea on, and left at G p.m.; arrived at Manukau bar at 7 a.m. on Monday 29th and Onehunga at 8.30 a.m. Passengers :— Mesdames Bond. 2 children, Kebley, Embling, Thomas, Turner, Johnstone, Bishop, /Turner, Miss Johnstone, Messrs Bradley. Stephenson. Embling, Craig, Barker, Thomas. Monroe, Johnstone, Shera, Danger, Monroe, Bavan, Rev- Mr Bond, and 9 steerage. The s.s. Wanaka. A: D. McGillivray, com mander, arrived in harbour early '..his morninpr, from Tauranga. Napier, and Southern Ports, with a general cargo and a number of passengers. She left Port Chalmers on the 21st, at 10.30 a m., arrived at Lyttelton next "day at 7 a m ; sailed 23rd at 7.20 p.m.. reached Wellington 21th at 1.30 p.m.; proceeded on 25th at 0.15 p.m., anchored in Hawke.s' Bay 26th, at 7.15 a.m.; left at 6.15 p.m.. anchored in Poverty Bay 27th, at 6 a.m.; sailed 3.15 p.m., reached Tauranga wharf at 1 p.m. Sunday, proceeded at 3.30 p.m. Light winds and dense fotr from Otago to Canterbury, thence to Wellington stronsr westerly winds. Westerly winds and fine to Napier, strong westerly winds and sea across the Bay of Plenty ; remainder of passage light winds and smooth ' water. PasseDgers—From Dunedin : Mr Steven son. From Lytte'ton: Miss McKinnon (2). From Wellington: Mrs McGillivray and three children, Mr- Eley, Mrs Baker and child, ?dr Weld, Mr Jay, Rev. Mr Dillon, Mr Cumming, Mr Mill. From Napier: Mr Booth, Mrs Stewart, Mrs Scott, Messrs Cable, Drummond, Mrs Wrigg and child. From Poverty Bay: Messrs McCahe, Roberts, Symon. From Tauranga: Mrs Har rington, Mrs Hill, Miss Hill and servant, Masters Harrington (3), Messrs Darlot, Bench. Goodall, Borland, McKenzie, Sword, Hill, and 10 steerage. "We are indebted to Mr R. B. Pringle, purser, for report, passenger list, and other favours. The s.s. Go-ahead arrived from Gisborne on Saturday afternoon, with a general cargo. She is advertisedlto sail again to-morrow afternoon. The s.s. lona leaves this afternoon for Russell, with passengers and cargo. The p.s. Hauraki arrived in the Manukau on Saturday evening from Waitara. The s.s. Rotorua. from Southern port-, may be expected to arrive in harbour this evening. She is to sail for Sydney to-morrow afternoon. The ship Golden Sea is taking in the Circus stock as quickly as possible, and will sail for Callao in a few days. The s.s. Hero, from Sydney and Melbourne, may be expected to arrive in harbour thi3 even ing or to-morrow morning. The barque Aikshaw, from London. i 3 now more than 100 days out, and may be expected to put in an appearance at any moment. H.M.s. Wolverine, with His Excellency the Governor and suite, arrived from Russcl this afternoon. The s.s. Wanaka sails this afternoon for Russell with a general cargo. Passengers :—Messrs Williams, Murray, and Wilson. Tho schooner Atalanta cleared at the Customs to-day for Foxton, and will sail from the Manu kau at once. The amount of duties collected at Customs to day was £396 6s 6d. The schooner Elizabeth Conway will clear at the Customs to-morrow for Nomea (New Cale donia). The s.s. Rotorua left Napier at 3 o'clock yes terday, and will arrive alongside Queen-street Wharf about midnight (Monday). She will leave for Sydney at 4 o'clock to-morrow. The ship Golden Sea entered outwards at the Customs to-day for Callao, South America, for which port she will sail on Wednesday next. The s.s. StafFa arrived in harbour to-day from East Coast ports via Thames. She landed a carved whare, and 100 Maori carpenters. The ketch Venus arrived from Napier last night in ballast. The brig Moa cleared at the Customs to-day for Kaipara, where she is to load with timber for Dunedin,

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Napier, this day. The s.s. Rotorua sailed for Auck'and at 2,30 p.m. yesterday.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND. Mails will Close ar Under :— For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m.; and to morrow, at 10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, per Durham, to-morrow, at 11.30 a.m. For Russell, Kawa Kawa, Wangaroa, and Mon gonui, per lona, this day, at _ p.m. For Tauranga and Opotiki, per StafFa, this day, at 5 p.m. For Waiwcra, Kawau, Omaha, and Matakana, per Annie Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Taiaroa, to-morrow, at 1 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at noon. Late letters till 1.15 p m. For Australian Colonies, per Rotoiua, to morrow, at 1 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newpaperp, at noon. Late letters for Sydney and Melbourne, till 1.15 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Argyle, to-morrow, at 1 p.m. For Gisborne, per Go-ahead, to-morrow, at 1 p.m. For Whitianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per "Rowena on Wednesday next, at 4 p.m. Per s.s. Australia, on Tuesday, 30th instant as follows :-- For Sandwich Inlands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 3 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe at 3 p.m. For money orders, registered letters and newspapers, at 9,30 a.m. Late letters bearing an extra fee of sixpence in addition to tho post age will be received by the Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

BIRTH.

MCLAUGHLIN.—On the 28th April, at her residence, Whau, Mrs. John McLaughlin ot a son. . , ._ SMITH.—On tho 27th instant, at her residence, North Shore, Mrs. Neil Smith of a daughter.

MARRIAGE.

SMITH—FULLOON.—On the 11th April, at St- Sepulchre's Church, Auckland, by the Rev. B- T. Dudley, Thomas Henry Smith, J.P., to Elizabeth K. Fulloon, both of Auckland.

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

MONDAY. APRIL 29. 1878

*jt**_2 _____ tbat I_cfcfc**»lit__a» Pir tfte vuaug _-_t _i_»_s icsls—K**, _<*__« tmtan in —- __aj_s, _Mt-B__«_-__- -ft«__>*»■

OUR cable messages last week made refer ence to new developments of '' Nihilism" in Russia, on such a scale as to alarm the Government. This remarkable form of com munism has so often been mentioned during the last few months that some interest will probably be felt in learning what it is. In attempting anything like a definition, however, wo are met at the outset, by the wildness and visionary character of the opinions which animate this most singular of all communist sects. The French com munist has something like a clear concep tion of what he hates and what he hopes ; but the Nihilist, feeling bitterly the evils of his condition has yet no plan for their remedy. There is nothing in his experience that would enable him to set up an ideal. His plan of reform, therefore, is of the most simple and unique descrip tion. He regards it as a first stop to the achievement of good Govern ment and social equality, that all existing institutions should be over thrown. His programme is essentially revolutionary. Let ns, he says, get rid of the evils that now oppress us, and trust to the production of more liberal and happy conditions. The Nihilist's creed aims at the overturning of everything. Imperialism is perhaps not more odious to him than the existing marriage and property rights. He would bring about a general chaos in order that the world may begin anew with no traditionary restraints, no hereditary titles to exercise political or social tyranny. But these views, as may be supposed, exist in the minds even of Nihilists iv so vague a form that they scarcely know what they want or what they profess, beyond a deep seated discontent avßli things as they are. It is always more or less so with the great body of those who accom plish a revolution, however clear and philosophical may be the views of the leading minds. The Nihilist is so far right that the neAV will naturally be evolved out of the destruction of the old ; but whether the change will be for good or evil depends on the spirit that directs it. In this the Nihilist is not without claims to sympathy. His strange creed is not the product of love of violence and disorder, but the outcome of a strong consciousness that the condition of himself and his fellow-men is not what it should be, and a humanitarian desire to set it right. There are many other shades of communism in Russia ; Nihilism, however, is the most dangerous from the destructive character of its doctrines. Yet in any revolutionary movement it is probable that all would fall into a common rank. The flame lighted by the Nihilist would find ample combustible material ready prepared iv all parts of the Empire. At least this is the opinion of good authorities on the condition of Russian social life, while others believe that the fealty to the Czar and religion, which is strongly exhibited iv the great cities, would prove superior to the diffused efforts of communal enthusiasts. It is impossible to arrive at any reliable opinion upon so intangible a subject. That the Rus sian Government, however, apprehend danger is shewn by the continual prosecu tions of Communist leaders. A " Stan dard" correspondent, discussing this part of the subject, says :—

" The iron must have entered deeply, when officers of rank and birth tire Nihilists, or, disclaiming the tenets of the sect, show in their talk an unconscious leaning towards its wildest vagaries. That they do so I can guarantee. Amongst mistaken notions prevalent about the Russian officer is that which makes him cautious, timid, a reticent being. Most emphatically he is not so. Officers in every rank have talked to me flat treason and mutiny, nor lowered their voices in so doing. Yet I know, by common report, that one pleasant fellow suddenly left camp, and it was said out loud that he had been banished to Siberia for offences unknown. Explain the anomaly how we may—by the recklessness of habit, by national character, by indignation be got of Imperial mistakes—the tact remains that Nihilist views are not concealed at least to a foreigner. One is constantly startled by the admission of an officer that he hopes to see his country unsuccessful iv this Avar— ' pounded like clay,' a Cossack colonel once expressed it to me. But tho instinct of discipline, perhaps of loyalty, is as yet too strong for disaffection. • How long it will retain this controlling force, or what provocation will be too much for it, I am not in a position to forecast. At any hour on any day the assault may begin, without warning or signal; and from that moment, should the attack succeed, Russia mnv be ruled out

of European politics, making her exit aa suddenly af she made her entrance, until, if that be possible, another Peter the Great rise in her midst and re-collect the dis jointed fragments of what was once_ an empire. The Czar is the State ; Nihilism is his antithesis ; if it gain the upper hand the Russian State falls to nothing." If this be anything near the truth, the Czar is sleeping over a volcano. Possibly the prosecution of war may afford a safety valve for these dangerous and restless elements, and the difficulty- of laying them has, perhaps, much to do in pressing the Russian Government on to new and perilous aggressions. But what would be the consequence of defeat ? In the days of national calamity, when the passions of the people are set loose, the retaining force of Imperial armies destroyed, the work of the revolutionist begins, and unless the institutions of the nation are supported under the trial by an enduring respect and affection, what is there to save them from destruction beneath the wave of popular fury.

The committee of City West No. 1 dis trict were astonished to-day to find that the scholars had been transferred to the new school building, Nelson-street, without their knowledge. The committee have twice written to the Board of Education asking that a date might be named when the new school would be ready for occupa tion, intending to mark the occasion with some appropriate ceremony. They failed, however, to elicit an answer. This morning, to their surprise, some of the committee observed that the school was occupied, and on making inquiry from the teacher were informed that tho In spector had given the necessary permission. The committee properly regard it as neither respectful to them nor conducive to tho interest of the district, that the Board of Education should have ignored them to the extent even of neglecting to answer business communications. The committee have without doubt, been vory badly treated, and should insist that the matter be fully inquired into. It also appears that the occupation has taken place before the build ing was passed by the architect.

The opening meeting of the Young Men's Christian Association will be held in the Choral Hall on Friday evening. His Excellency the Governor is announced to take the chair, and tho meeting will be addressed by ministers aud gentlemen. Several selections of music will be given by a select choir, under the management of Mr Thcophilus Cooper.

The charitably-disposed people of Auck land will be glad to hear that arrange ments have been made by several amateur singers of the city for holding a grand Ethiopian Carnival in the Lome-street Hall on the evening of Friday, 10th May, for the benefit of Mrs McConkie. It will be remembered that this poor woman was left a widow several weeks ago by an accident which removed from this world the bread-winner of the family. Cast upon her own resources, she with her helpless children, will have the greatest dilficulty in procuring even the barest necessities of life. It is, however, hoped that a few friends may be got to gether sufficient to put her in a way of gaining an independent and honest liveli hood. For this purpose, then, the Carey and Dean Minstrel Troupe has been formed, and we sincerely trust they may bo successful in their benevolent objects. The citizens of Auckland have always come to the front when such assistance was required, and it is to be hoped that in the present1 instance they will not be backward iv helping the widow and orphans. As the assistance of some of our best talent has been obtained, there appears to be little doubt that the conceit will be a success. A new pro gram me is in the course of preparation, which will include two or three novelties.

Gonial Steve Massett did a splendid business in the South, especially in Christ church. The "Lyttelton Times" says: —

" There was the possibility that the en larged Oddfellows' Hall, which when empty is ominously reverberativc, might militate seriously against an entertainment in which so much would depend on distinct ness of utterance. The densely crowded sta fo of the building, however, effectually covered any accoustic defects, and that Mr Massett had added yet another item to the long list of his successes was abundantly evident from the frequent and hearty ap plause of the audience, whom, by the way, he took occasion to thank for the very marked attention with which they had lis tened to him throughout."

To the Editor : Sir, —With all respect to Mr Hobbs, 1 think it ia due to electors that he state distinctly his views upon the lead ing questions of the day : Universal suffrage, Native Land Bill Taxation, and representation also, if it is his intention to support the Grey Ministry. He has, I notice very carefully omitted those very important items from his address.—Yours &c, Franklyn.

The Victoria Company competed for the Ladies' Prize at 200, 400, 500, and GOOyrds, on Saturday afternoon with the following results :—Volunteer 11. Bowden, 46'; Volun teer James Burke, 44; Sergeant A. Hender son, 44; Volunteer E. Cooper, 44; Volunteer T. Pairs, 43 ; Corporal J. W. Leigh, 40; Corporal J. W. Duff, 39 ; CorporalJ. Leigh, 39 ; Volunteer A. Payne, 30 ; Volunteer IT. Nightingale, 29; Volunteer C. E. Matthews, 29.

Mrs Theresa Corlctt, once upon a time resident of Wellington, has received an

autograph letter from Queen Victoria, thank ing her for her poem, composed by Mrs Cor lctt in honor of the Queen's birthday.

From late returns it appears that San Francisco contains 300,000 inhabitants.

An American paper says :—" A story that reads like a medircval romance comes from New York. In refitting the old* post-office buildings, the carpenters have discovered that the upper floors are double, and are arranged so that detectives can watch the operations of those in the different rooms, who suppose themselves to be alone. The whole building was furnished with secret passages, sliding panels, hidden trap-doors, arid mysterious chambers, whose existence the post officials had no knowledge of, with tho exception of the postmaster and assistant. When the workmen had removed the flooring it was ascertained that the concealed' space was from 4ft to 4_tt deep, affording ample room for men to move about in. Passages led entirely around the building. At very short intervals were found small circular holes, in which were inverted lenses. Through these a view of the room below was obtained. Back of and above these lenses were reflectors, which brought before the eye of,the observer the utmost recesses of the Post-office. If a detective saw any stealing or any improper action committed by a clerk, or by a person not employed iv the office, the speaking tube by his side conveyed a warning at once to the attic room, and the guilty person was met: at the door, or tapped on the shoulder in the in terior of the office by another detective. The apertures through which the detective overlooked the rooms are in most places so small as to be hardly visible from the apart ments below. Some of them, however, look boldly down from the casement, but as the planks in which they were seen were obtained from very old timber, the holes would readily be taken for knot holes.

We beg to call the attention of our readers to the fact that the school hitherto conducted by Mr Martin at the Choral Hall, will on the first of May be opened as a free public school, under the Education Act. Mr. Martin will as heretofore be head master.

The Excelsior Lodge of Good Templars, Franklin-road, will give a complimentary soiree to the Templars of the ocean, from Her Majesty's ships Nymphe and Sapphire, on Thursday evening. The soiree will include tea, music, song, speech and recita tion. Mr McKenzie i. expecetd to;take the chair.

A tourist at the Hot Lakes sends the following from Ohinemutu :—"Tourists who have been fortunate enough to see the wonders of Rotorua and Rotomahana generally fail in finding words to express the impression these sights inspire them with. The white and pink terraces aro universally hailed with ecstacies of delight, and may be described as Paradise. The " Devil's deep, black rumbling hole," the geysers, and boiling, hissing, roaring cauldrons, generally looked at with wonder and awe, may be called the nearest approach to "infernal." The best expo sition I have beard is contained in the following poetical effusion, copied from the visitors' guide-book at Mr Wilson's hotel, Ohinemutu : ' The kindly Fates together threw Us travellers five, and, strange to tell, Conducted us through "Paradise," Up to the "Gates of Hell." We enter fearless, nothing loth; We have no dread of evil ; For " Wilson " keeps the keys of both ; He's "St. Peter and the Devil." Special attention is directed to the annual meeting of the subscribers and friends of the Parnell Orphan Home, to be held this evening at the institution, Parnell. Bishop Cowio will preside, ami there will be musical selections during the evening. The annual distribution of prizes will lake place during the evening. Lad,y Bowen, it appears, is about to go home, to England. The "Evening Post" clips the following on the subject, which is of a somewhat sensational character, from a Victorian publication :—" It will be seen from our Parliamentary intelligence that some unprincipled cowardly scoundrels have been in the habit of sending anonymous let | tors to Lady Bowen respecting the Governor, and seeking to embitter the affectionate re lations which should, anddoubtlessdo, exist between them. No punishment would be too severe for such despicable curs, one cannot call them men—and perhaps the most effective mode of treatment would be a few judiciously administered applications of the cat-o'-nine tails, as such creatures are always cowards, and dread corporal punishment more than the undisguised contempt of the world at large. It is, however, to bo feared that they have achieved a portion of their object, as our correspondent telegraphs that Lady Bowen has suddenly made up her mind to proceed to England. The course pursued by the anonymous scribbler was warmly con demned in the Legislative Council on the evening of the 21st March by Sir Charles Sladen, whose manly sentiments were re ceived with cheers both by the members of the Council aud visitors to the galleiy." Patti is having a stirring time of it at Naples. When she arrived they declined to receive her at tbe Hotel Royal, so she had to go to the Nobile. She was in high dudgeon, refused to rehearse, and in con sequence found an audience at San Carlo as cold as a stone. In less than an hour she sang the whole house into warmth, enthusiasm, frantic delight—it was the " Traviata" — and next morning the papers made positive excuses. Nay more, the committee of the theatre came to pay her the unusual honour of a visit in state. She refused to see them. Expectation was on tiptoe as to her reception next night. It was feared she would be hissed. Not at all. She sansr the " Barbier," and with the same effect as before, her voice acting on their premeditated sulkiness like the rising sun on the mist. In the scene in which she has to spell the name of Rosiua she kept one high note so long that the un happy baritone who accompanied her—and not a bad one either —had to stop three times for breath, she mocking him with a look the while. Naples has now given up all idea of resistence and has taken up its old position—at her feet. She receives £500 a night, with a right to half of the surplus when the receipts exceed 3,Soodols. On the night of the ' Barbier ' they took £1200 at the doors : she therefore received an extra £200, or a total of about £600 for the night's work, not counting her bonus of revenge.

Some curious facts are brought out iv a Parliamentary paper, which came to hand to-day from the Government printer. The return is ono laid on tho table of the House of Representatives by Sir George Grey, and gives the amount of revenue collected at each port, and the cost of collection. It is shewn by this that the total amount of Customs revenue collected at Whangarei last year was £32, and £200 were spent in collecting it, the rate of collection being therefore £625 per cent. At the Chathams £111 were paid to collect £9. At Auckland the revenue amounted to £219,453, and the cost of collection was £6,169, or £2 16s 2d per cent. At Tauranga £352 were paid for collecting £2,252, or £16 19s 3d per cent.

The fifth anniversary of the Court Zeaiandia of Foresters will be celebrated by a concert and ball, to be held in the Lome street Hall, on the 15th of May, particulars of which will appear in a future issue.

A special meeting of the Tailors' Associa tion Avill be held this evening in the British Hotel, for the purpose of introducing business of importance to the trade.

An arch purple meeting of the Young Diamond Orange Lodge will be held this evening, in the Newton Protestant Hall.

A military correspondent writes:—"ln the event of war with Russia, the various colonies will have to keep a sharp look out for stray foreigners, who travel about as artists, engineers, doctors, et hoc, but who

are in reality spies, making themselves acquainted with the geographical features of our sea-ports, &c, for the benefit of their employers. It is conjectured that Russia, desires particularly to avenge her daughter's husband's attempted assassinationiu Sydney, now oser ten years ago, as well as to carry away our Crimean guns on the Barrack Hiil and elsewhere captured from her during that war, 24 years since, German and Rus sian quasi-mining engineers were busy lately on the Victorian goldiields, and a spy was lately caught sketching the fortifica tions at Malta. AYe beg to state that a few yards of native-made rope, await all such gentry, in our " tight little island.'"

At the sale of Messrs Martin and Maitland's estate, Invercargill, on Satur day, the National Mortgage Agency Company purchased the large wool store, with 66 feet to the Crescent, for £3,700. Mr S. W. Bain, of the " Southland Times," bought the office and premises (leasehold) for £930.

Mr James Brown, (Snyder,) is having a newspaper war with Mr Webb, proprietor of the " Poverty Bay Standard" over his sum mary dismissal from the editorship of that journal. Mr Brown urges that his late em ployer has been ungrateful for his" services, while the latter retorts that a want of loyalty to him justified the course he had taken.

Three members of the lace Ministry are, according to the Wanganni "Herald," pressing claims against the colony:—

" Dear Pollen," not content with the Editor ship of "the colonial journal" at £SOO a year, also wauts a pension. It seems that he is legally entitled to a pension, albeit he has lived pretty well at the expense of the colony for the greater part of his life, nuc has had several scions of the house of Pollen comfortably provided for in Gov ernment billets. It is the amount of " Dear Pollen's" pension which is in dis pute, and our contemporary says "that probably the Legislature will have to be appealed to in order that the amount may be fixed, and that it may be determined, once for all, whether the time spent in poli tical office counts in determining the number of years' service on which the amount of pen sion is to be computed." Then there is the claim of Mr Edward Richardson against the Province of Canterbury, in connection with the Moorhouse tunnel between Lyttelton and Christchurch, for which Mr Richard son's firm were the contractors. This claim has been the subject of almost endless liti gation, and most people imagined that they had heard the last of it; but it has been re vived, and with this difference—that it is againstthe colony, as there is no longer aPro vince. The third claimant is the Attorney- General, Mr Whitaker, and although his claim is not precisely of a pecuniary charac ter, still it is one involving large public in terests. It is in connection with cortainland exchanges.

In these days of wars, and rumours of wars, it may interest our readers to learn what part one of our exports, namely, sul phur, has played in the past, and is likely to play in the near future. The time-fuze attached to shell, and which explode from 5 to 20 seconds after ignition, or about one inch per 5 seconds, contains more than one third of sublimed sulphur, as found on Whfte Island. Carcasses, or shells with three vents, fired from all kinds of guns and mortars, contain about one-sixth of sul phur. The common portfire contains about two-thirds of sulphur, while the coast-guard light only about one-eighth. The miners' portfire again contains one-fourth. Hale's rockets contain about one-seventh. Signal rockets contain about one-sixth, and life buoy posrfire about one half. Ordinary gunpowder contains one-tenth of sulphur.

A writer in the " Timaru Herald," refer ring to Mr Hugh Carleton, who has left New Zealand, says :—' He was mainly known in Parliament by two things. One was that his political ideas and aspirations were so far in advance ot tho times that they were regarded rather as oracular than practical; rather to be looked forward to with confidence in tho distant future, than to be paid attention to in the immediate pre sent. The other was that he spoke so many languages fluently that he muddled them up together, and thus rendered himself not unfrequently quite unintelligible to his audience. Greek, Latin, Maori, Hebrew, French, Italian, Gaelic, German, Basque, Spanish, Romany, it is all the same to him which came into his head, in order to point a moral, or adorn a tale, or illustrate an observa tion. The House of Representatives used to watch him with open-mouthed astonish ment while he stood stiff and bolt upright, gazing into space, and emitting volumes of polyglot in guttural tones from the depths of his cavernous chest.'

Sir Robert Douglas, M.H.R., is now. in Auckland for the purpose of interviewing Ministers re Kaipara telegraph extension. In order to test tho plug which was used so unfortunately at tho Newton Fire, Mr Hughes on Saturday, after the Kyber Pass pressure was put on, attached the hose and succeeded in getting a pressure of 351bs. from the plug. As thero is nothing to dis tinguish it from the other plugs, the mistake made was at least excusable.

Considerable difficulty was experienced in finding Justices of the Peace to sit at ttie Police Court this morning, the Resident Magistrate being unavoidably absent. The business of the Court was therefore delayed for half-au-hour.

They are having some " Promenade Ballad Concerts" in Wellington at the Atheiifeum, in which that charming singer and pianistc, Madame Marie Moller, and her daughter, Miss Annie, are the bright particular "stars." They think somewhat of making a trip to Dunedin, when ot course they will take Oamaiu in their way.

"The Pacific Mail Steamship Company's steamer City of New York, with her popular Captain Cobb," says the " Dunedin Star," '.' is one of the pet ships of the line running between Auckland and San Francisco. Her accommodation is simply superb, and the living capital, and she is one of the fastest and most reliable of the Company's vessels. Messrs Williams, Blanchard and Co., the California agents, deserve great credit for their splendid management, and for the great interest they take in all matters rela ting to New Zealand, and for the perpetuity ot the line between the two countries.

The Ladies' Committee of the Home for Destitute Children, Howe-street, wish to return thanks to Mrs Somerville for some calico sent for use of the Home.

The Theatre was crowded last night, in both stalls and pit, with a very attentive audience. Mr T. Buddie presided, and the addresses were delivered by the Rev. Allan W. Webb and Mr Henr\ Barton.

The number of inmates in the Provincial Lunatic Asylum on Saturday last, was IS2, viz. 121 males and 61 females.

Mr Roth's new baths for working men, were visited on Saturday by about 200 persons, and yesterday by SO , about 12 per diem, upon an average, took advantage of the baths during tho previous week days.

M. Fontaine,iin his volume on "Lighting by Electricity" (Paris : Baudry, 1877), says:—"We have never so much admired the facility of employment, tilt simplicity o fitting up, the indefinite divisibility, and the multiplicity of uses of gas, as since we have been occupied with lighting by electricity." Not only is gas now reckoned as one of the necessaries of life, but it is identified with many of its most useful and successful occupations, contributing to domestic com fort and healthful enjoyments. Is there any invention which has more largely contri buted to the cheerfulness, the security, and the comforts of Home ?—[Sec advertise ment.]

THE BELLTOPPERS AT COROMANDEL AND THAMES.

A fresh breeze was blowing as the Durham cast off with a valuable freight, consisting of thirteen able-bodied Belltoppers and other passengers. The night was cold, so Ulsters, rugs, &c, were in great request. Among the passengers wore several racgatira Maori ladies, who were lying about the deck in picturesque attitudes. Some of the B.T.s were anxious to learn the language, and it was rather amusing to watch the different styles that each candidate introduced himself. I noticed one aspiring genius receive a dark-skinned lady's foot in the small of his bacic in a not very gen tie manner, as ho sat himself at her feet. Our comedy man's notion was the best. He produced some tobacco, and was the right bower for th • evening, At Waiheke tho Prof essor let off one of his capital rockets. Soon aft* r this "Tat" introduced " the" feature of the trip, viz., the song " Who killed Cock Robin," which he had to repeat until we learnt it. Tat is hard to beat anywhere. Our operatic tenor fetched some of tho pas-engers with "The dear little Sham rock." I heard ono son of the Green Isle say with a sitch, " It's fourteen years since I heard that sung iv Dublin,}1 then ho wiped a tear from his eye, and asked if there wasiiot another verso. When we reached Coromandel there was a good number of poople to meet us at the end of the rickety old wharf. In a few minutes we handed ourselves over to the mercies of jehu Ulovor, who landed us safe at Mrs Boyd's. The other coach wa3 piloted by one of our irrepressibles, who, I believe, got off the road; but with his usual good luck in these sort of adventures he got on again without doing much damage. Some saw visions of a Mahurangi supper, but were agreeably surprised when they sat down, and tho way salmon, sucking pig, &c, disappeared, must have rather opened our hostess' eyes. After exploring the village we turned in. Two or three early risers were guided to a bathing-place in the creek by an old fashioned Coromandel boy, who possessed a sling mado with rather rotten string. Tins boy woidd persist in slinging stones ; I took refuge behind tho Infant, expecting to see him killed like Goliah. Comedy tried to frighten this youth by telling him wo had a thief-catcher with us. •' Yes; I 'sposo your him." said the boj-. VVhon wo got back to the hotel there was agreatout-cry forli.M., jwhich in this instance does not stand for Resident Magistrate. Al though there was plenty of the resident, in tho hotel we could not find a dairy, nor even a cow containing tho latter. At length a milkman appeared, and our several wants were satisfied. A baker with cold cross buns found his basket somewhat lighter by the time ho had got by. Soon after breakfast wo inspected the wicket, and found it better than we expected, as some pains had been spent on it. We won the. toss, and went in. Hilly, the Professor, and the Bird retired early—not caring to trouble the scorers. Dan and Mum thought otherwise, and made it about as lively and amusing to on lookers as was possible. 103 were totted un before they parted; 90 being put together in less than an hour. The Infant followed his elders with 23. Tat's innings was a treat •so was the beer when it arrived, which it did during Tat's long stay at, the wickets ; all out for 215,1 think—Tat not out 32. We took the field, and despatched our opponents pretty quickly, Dan and Billy being the destroying agents. Coromandel followed on, and Tat was entrusted with the leather, getting a line analysis—sis wickets in six overs—with his insinuators. Several other B.T.s trundled a few overs, with varied success. Of our opponents young Jervis shewed promise of future cricket. We even tually won- by an innings and 11G runs. The Professor was all there with his conjuring tr_cks behind the sticks, aud as for Tat at longstop, he's never been known to let a bye—at least he, or rather the score-sheet says so. Our trip to G-rahamstown was got over very pleasantly; our tenor gave us " Ifiilcen Alanah,'" wnich was so appreciated that he had to repeat, it. We all stretched ourselves 'on the deck, and the only drawback was that no one would lie to windward for more than five minutes, so that there was a continual rolling one over the other. A good dinner, or rather supper, was soon got ready at the Pacific, ill host Curtis's well-known style. In the morniDg we reached Parawai safely, and started to but on a good wicket, though a trifle too Jirely for us. Alum and Billy made the running pretty warm off the two first overs; eighteen runs were mit together when both were caught for II aud ID respectively. Dan

was unfortunately .bowled off his hodv m, Bird played a good.innings of sixteen -To. P l* only time to make seven—not out of JSr*4 Our innings closed for 89, which i« t£?^ good enough. However, the wicke. ™ Bht little hard for the bowler of our t P ™ a before wo knew where we were, our onnS_and were nearly up to us owing to the huTt... enta Young and Whitford, who made thl I °! useful scores of 50, not out, and 36 their inJ cry closed for 116, but not till little Mum h^? 8 take tho leather from the skipperand eff...* 0 separation. In our second innings wo h£? * a wicket for 65 runs, so if it had been p?ay e _ °°f «c think we should have scored anothPF _.° ut Dan 32, not out, and Tat 25, not out. Of ; ■' in fact, Tat has never been known to eoff^.' not even out of temper. What a nigh«... F.-.tarday was at the Thames. Icouldffliln^* - o ; ho various exploits and adventures of Knights, but as they they are secrets which hßinJ? 1 to the order, "miff sed." We wereaM^B hear the Durham was to take us back arifl j_ < -l ncr boat, as the captain had been nar.ir.r.i__T° l.md all the trip. We said or rat&r s_nl arJ y affectionate farewell to Mudge, Pier Pnin? Agnei. and other beauties (these are floticirm. namcs)-to the tune of "Who Killed r23! Robin," arriving in Auckland at about 2am after a most era. oyable trip. May we have m__'_ more. CUJS"J

CA BL EGRAMS.

THE PROPOSED CONGRESS.

BISMARCK'S MEDIATION.

[EEUTEK'S TELEGRAMS.]

LONDON", April 27. It is understood that the British Go vernment proposed that the terms of the Treaty of Paris be considered in relation to the Treaty of Stephano ST. PETERSBURG, April 27. With reference to England's objection to the indefiniteness of Bismarck's pro posal for the basis of the Russian Con gress, the Ministerial journal here states that the Great Powers never agreed that there should be a direct exchange of views prior to the meeting of the peace Congress.

The New Pope Reiterates Protest of Pius IX.

EOME, April 29,

The new Pope reiterates the protest of Pius the Ninth relative to the temporal power of the Papacy.

THE ROUMANIANS STRONGLY IN TRENCHED.

EMBARKATION OF INDIAN EXPE-

DITION.

RUSSIA'S BACK DOWN A BIT.

THE TROOPS DO NOT ENTER STAM BOUL.

A POWERFUL BALTIC SQUADRON

READY.

[-.KUTEIt'S SPECIAL TO PRESS AGENCY.] / ; Z CONSTANTINOPLE, April 26th. The Roumanian insurgents are well officered, and occupy an impregnable position. The Mussulman insurgents are driving the Bulgarians towards Phillipopolis. An alarm has been created in Adrianople, whence troops have been despatched against the insurgents. : :* LONDON, April 26. The absence of news discourages hope for the success of the efforts for the maintenance peace. . BOMBAY, April 26. -\ The Indian expedition is now embarking for Malta. LONDON, April 27.. . -',' Bismarck aud Gortschakoff are better in health. Diplomatic negotiations are pro ceeding. The anti-English feeling of the Russian Press is more moderate. Russia has raised the difficulty that Bismarck's proposal for the withdrawal ot Russian troops from Stefano aud of the British fleet from the Sea of Marmora favours England. Russia foregoes the intended entrance of • ■ ■>?«■ officers and men into Starnboul on Sunday to attend the Greek churches. Twenty British ironclads for the Baltic * Z squadron are now ready for service.

SYDNEY RACES.

RAND WICK, Saturday. Randwick Handicap. — Janitor, 1. Woolstone, 2 ; Maccaroni, 3. ' Rouse Handicap.—Pardon, lj Black Eagle, 2 ; Martindale, 3. The Jockey Club Plate. Chester ... .„ ~". 1 Cap-a-Pie 2 Dean ... »- ... 3 Won easily. Time : omin. 42sec. Steeplechase.—Flinders, 1; Goulburn, 2 ; Jangler, 3. Nursery Handicap.—Sir Andrew, 1; Nappor Tandy, 2 ; Emily, 3. •

THE CIRCUS.

The closing performances of the Circus were well attended both on Saturday after noon and evening, and the programme, which was the same as that of the previous day, seemed to be heartily enjoyed. The side show was also well patronised, and the accomplishments of Bismarck created a. great sensation. Now that thecompany's visit is over we have no hesitation iv saying that the show is the best thing of its kind we have ever seen in Auckland. The animals are all fairly good specimens, and the per formers in the arena are capable well trained artistes. The tumbling of Mr Batcheler and the riding of Martinho Lowande and his sons were alone well worth seeing. Numbers of persons who intended visiting- the Circus during the present week are disappointed. It has been the custom with almost every kind of exhibition, theatrical, and otherwise, to open for a few nights longer, so that these persons dependeil upon the few extra nights- But Cooper and Bailey, like Kennedy, the Scottish vocalist, and a few others, are positive in their announcements, and never give the few anticipated nights, hence hundreds of procrastinators have not seen the lions. . * ?

POLICE COURT.—THIS DAY.

(Before Col. Nation and D. Hean, Esq., Z Justices of the Peace.) drunkenness. Five men, mostly seamen, were charged ;* with drunkenness, and on confession were ' fined 5s and costs each. > two women. Poor Mary Brown was out with Mary honx, The former dauced, the latter tried a song. Mary Long was fined 10s, and Mary Brown 10s for being drunk and capering in \ the dark last evening. STEALING TUMBLERS. Charles Ingham, long known as a thirsty soul, Drank up the beer, and then the tumblers stole. Charles Ingham was charged with" being drunk and disorderly on Saturday; also, , with stealing three tumblers, value, Is 3d, the property of Maurice O'Sullivan, of the Cosmopolitan Hotel. Prisoner said he was drunk enough, but he did not steal tho tumblers. v - Constable MeGilp deposed to taking- the prisoner into custody and finding the tumblers in his pocket. ~r Mrs O'Sullivan deposed to seeing *. prisoner in the hotel. She subsequently ;. missed tumblers, but she could not swear m that those produced were her tumblers. She took one from the prisoner, but he said ' | he was only joking. v Sub-inspector Pardy said .prisoner was a ~ seaman, and nothing was previously known ~,,_ against him Z ' ;f!V The Bench fined prisoner 10s aud costs■_, — for drunkenness, and dismissed the latter^ j charge. - ~', .;. "■■ jE,f- DISORDERLY GIRLS. ** *!i^j Two girls, witn language very indiscreet, Made a great noise by brawling in the street. Anne Bannorth, a young girl, ot »"> --' Thames, described as a milliner anu ■ ...

EVENING STAR, MONDAY APRIL 29 1878



T^ISSOLUTION OF PARTNERSHIP. The Partnership hitherto existing between J. COSGRAVE AND W. GRAHAM Trading under the style of firm of J. COSGRAVE & CO., MERCHANTS AND IMPORTERS QUEKN-STREET, AUCKLAND, Is about to be Dissolved by mutual consent; 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 mr Disposed of at Cost Price ! "©. All Accounts owing to J. Cosgrave and Co. must be paid forthwith. No Goods will be Entered during the Sale. The Premises were Opened ON WEDNESDAY. APRIL 21, When the Sale Commenced. J. COSGRAVE & CO. Faith, hope, and charity, are the ornaments of every well-regulated person, and the hone.t family physician the best friend of mankind. In the hour of sickness, and tormenting pains, what so grateful to the poor suffering patient as a remedy at hand that can subdue his distress and restore tranquility. "Ghollah's Great In dian Cures" have the most beneficial effect in reaching and correcting all the ordinary dis orders of the human body. They are decisive in their action and invigoratiug to the constitu tion. Thoycan be had of all Chemists, where see the numerous reliable testimonials received i y th.



/GREATEST SHOW OF Dress _toods AT THE CITY HALL ARCADE, QUEEN-STREET. HOLLO WAY, GARLICK, Se CR AN WELL. GREATEST SHOW OF FURNITURE AND CARPETS AT THE CITY HALL ARCADE. HOLLOW AY, 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 I^IITV TTALL A RCADE, Hollow-sy, Garlick S_ Cranwell, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. |T|ltXP ERY ! TTV RAPER V *_- NEW SEASON GOODS ! ! SOME R FIELD AND LECK In taking this opportunity to address their numerous friends and tho general public, desire to express thanks for liberal patronage, and bog to introduce to their notice a very Superior Selection of Goods ex "Chasca, Fontonaye, and Chili, NOW OPKNING, comprising Blankets, Flannels, Calicos, Shirtings, Sheetings, Tick ings, Winceys, Satin Cloths, All Wool Serges, Hosiery, &c , All Wool Shawls, &c. Men's and Boys' Clothing. Moleskins, Corduroys, Tweeds, Sea. This Large and Well-assorted Stock, having been Purchased for Cash in the over-stocked English Markets, is Now Offered for Salk at Pricks Lower than Ever Hears of in Auckland. Inspection Invited. S~ VERY SPECIAL LINE. HEAVY 11J FAMILY BLANKETS, AT 17S 6d. Country Orders will have special attention. Hawkers Supplied at Wholesale Prices. • SOMERFIELD & LECK, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. LADIES AND GENTLEMEN about to FURNISH are reminded that ONE OF THE LARGEST STOCKS IN THE COLONY OF FURNITURE CARPETS FLOORCLOTHS BEDDING, &c, &c, &c. Is on Sale at T. & H. Cooke's FURNISHING WAREHOUSE 67, Queen-street. A UTUMN AND WINTER, IS7S 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 Bought both as regards Quality and Price. Particulars in future issu Inspectionlnvited. FIVE PER CENT. (Ift. IN THE £), ALLOWED ON ALL CASH PUR CHASES OF 20S. AND UPWARDS. .RuSHBUOOK AND ORIDGMAN, DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, &C, JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel), UPPER QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. ONEDUbST! BONEDUST ONEDUST! To Arrive, per Hero 100 TONS BONEDUST. Also, Just Landed, ex Borough Belle: A FINE SAMPLE OF BILLYARD'S No. 1 BONEDUST. W. J. HURST & CO., 101. Queen-street. A-a LINABUItY & 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, £ilk Ti.y, Umbrellas, Collars and Cuffs, Gloves, Chilure s Mantles and Jackets. Also, A LARGE STOCK OF NOVELTIES, Which are Cheap, and will have quick sale. O" Look in at "4* A. LINABURY & CO.'S, 204 &206, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND. (TTNION INSURANCE COMPANY U OF NEW ZEALAND. A.PJTAL £2,000,009. U C I_ L AN I) B It ANC II QUISEN-S T R E E T. Noxt the Colonial Bank. _TRE DEPARTMENT. I_-Ura.nO granted on Dwelling- houses, Stores, Shops, Buildings in which trade is oarried on. Merer, audiae, and Goods of every description. MAIS IN IS DEPARTMENT. Hulls o£ Ships or Steamers, Merchandise or all Kinds, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at ownst Current Rates. It. 11. STEVENSON iuiuiagiT.



rPO AGRICULTURISTS & OTHERS' W. J. HURST _s CO. have on sale the under mentioned Fertilizers, all of which have heen proved to produce satisfactory results in this district. Experience teaches that large and profitable returns can be relied on by a judicious and li flva use of them. The flattering Testi monials from leading Farmers justify W. J. Hurst & Co. in strongly commending them to every Agriculturist :— MADDEN ISLAND GUANO PERUVIAN GUANO MEXICAN do. BELLS BONE FLOUR i and i-inch BONEDUST BILLYARD'S No. 1 do. NITRATE OF SODA SULPHATE OF AMMONIA MURIATES OF POTASH SUPER-PHOSPHATE OF LIME. SALT, SULPHATE OF LIME. L_ addition to the above, W. J. H. Se Co. are ■repared to supply special Chemical Manures for stimulating weak Corn Crops, and renovat ing Clover-sick Pastures, aa well as the Potato and Mangold mixture that for the last two sea sons has attracted such favourable notice. Analysis, p- >=.s. and other particulars will bo supplied on app. "ation at the Stores. W. J. HURST & CO., 101. Queen tre



/CLOVER SEEDS, RYE GRASS, &C. On Sale, ex Late Arrivals : CLOVER SEEDS, CONSISTING OF White Clover Timothy Red Clover ' Rape Cow Grass Trefoil Alsyke &c, &c„ &c. Turnip ALSO, 200 bushels ENGLISH PERENNIAL RYE GrItASS 50 bushels ENGLISH POA PRATENSIS 500 lbs. INDIAN DOOB GRASS 1,000 lbs. ALFALPA 2,000 lbs. AMERICAN TIMOTHY. AND A Fine Collection of Farm anu Garden Skkds. The abovo have arrived in first-class condition. Samples will bo forwarded on application. Poverty Bay, Canterbury, and local Ryo Grass" Cocksfoot. Ratstail, Pons Fescues, &o. &c. _om carefully selected samples, at lowest mar ** rates. nUBST & CO., Queen-street.



At tiieii. Old Tricks Again.—lrresponsiolo speculators aro again attempting to foist spur ious rubbish of a hurtful kind upon the public as identical with tho celebrated UDOLPHO Wolfe's Siiiedam Aromatic Schnapps. They §ut them poisonous imitations in tho Kcnuino chnapps bottles and either counterfeit the label or pretend that tho false is as good as the genuine. Tako none but tho true health beverage.