SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

~.. ,r in .»■ a-n \ This Afternoon, 6.13 UiKrll \.Aii tk -"I'to-morrow Morning, 6.29 SUN SET.—This Evening, 6.32 SUN RISE.—To morrow Morning, 5.50 MOON'S AO •£.— New Moon. 4th, 2.5S p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Ion?, s.s., Farquhar, from Russell

DEPARTURES.

Southern Cross, s.s., for Napier

PROJECTED DEPARTURES l"or Tarunaki aad the South—Tairoa, Tuesday, March 5 For TaurarsKa and the South—Hawea, Thurs day next For Sydnoy—Rotorua, s.s., March sth For Levuha — Mazeppa, schooner, at once For London —Lorram^, barque, early. For Stt« Francisco—Zealanaia, s.s., sth March. For Sydney and Melbourne—Hero, s.s., March 6th.

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Conflict, gunboat, from Wellington Nympbe, H.M.S., from Wellington Christophero Colombus. H.1.M.5.5., from Sydney early Kate McGregor, schooner, from Lyitelton early Fairlie, schooner, from Lyttelton Hero. s.s., from Sydney. 4th prox. Zealii liditi, s.s.. from Sydney, March sth. . Siendoza, barque (Q,G.L.F.), from London, sailed Dec. 15th. Fomeiviye, barque (W.G.L.H.), from London; sailed 13th December. Ssatoller. barque (J.R.S.N.), from London; saiiea Dec. 2. _ ' Craigee Lee, barque (W.H.K.8.), from London; Aiclsshaw," barque (W.T.F.L.), from London, Arabella, barque (K.P.Q.V.), from London loading Spirit of the Dawn, barque (H.T.V.C.), from London, early. Chasea. baroue (H.S.M.N.), from London; sailed 4th Not. Chile, barque, from London; sailed 3th Dec. Leuciidia ship, from London, early Sophia, R. Luhrs, barque, from New York, early. Stag, barque, from Newcastle ; sailed 11th inst. Bella Maiy. barque, frcrn Hobart Town, early. Kiliotts, brisr. from Adelaide, early Nile, brig, from Newcastle; sailed 13th inst.

IMPORTS.

Per lona, from Russell — 312 sacks gum, 14 packages woo', 20 cases fru't, B'.pp.ckages whalebone, 7 cases gum, and a quantity of sundries. 1 case beesvvax. —Ireland Bros. 'fgPer Tilazepna, for Samoa,viaL3vuka: 40cases soap. 12 casiiS beef, 20,000 feet timber, S cases machinery, i casks cold tar, 5 boxes tobacco, oO cases brandy, 40 mats sugar, 5 cases wine, oO cases kerosine, 14 bales cotton, 200 bags flour. 120 tins biscuits, 20 cases soap, 5 cases cordials, Tease coffee. 3. casei vinegar.—Owen and Graham.

The s.s. lona arrived from Russell this morn iner, with a cargo of gum, etc.. and the following passengers: Mrs Jamieson, Misses Yarborough, Brock," and McElroy. Messrs. Bates, Reeves, Coleman. Shepherd, Yarborough, Yates, Reid, Reade, Macfarlane. Wallace, King, Jenkins. Hori, Constable McGovern and one Maori prisoner. The s.s. Southern Cross left for Napier about 8 o'clock last evening, but shortly after her departure an accident happened to her machinery, and she was compelled to put back. The ddmige was repaired early this morning, and she s liled at ten o'clock. The schoener Kate McGregor leit Lyttelton for Auckland yesterday,?and may be expected bore ahout the end of next week. The g.s. Go-ahead will probably arrive in port this evening or to-morrow morning from Gis borne- The cutters Thistle and Janet arrived from Russell yesterday with cargoes of coal. The p.s. Hauraki is to leave Onehunga at four o'cloeßTthis afternoon for Waitara. The s.s. Rotoiti will not leave for the Thames to-night, hat will leave on Monday at midnight, goini direct through to Ohinemuri, calling in at Grahamstovm.

The s.s. Hawea will arrive in port to-morrow evening from the South. The clipper schooner Edith_, which has been lying in port for some time, is to take in cargo for the Islands immediately, Per s.s. Southern Cross, for Napier: 34 pack ages, 2 casks seed.—Owen and Graham.- The barque ChuseafromLondonto Anckland, is now about 120 days out, and she may there fore be expected at any moment. The cutter Ness has gone ashore on a sand bank at Poverty Bay, and Captain Anderson, her owner, proceeded to the scene to have her floated off. It is expected this will be done without any damage being caused. Sh3 is not insured.

The schooner Mazeppa, Captain Garraway, cleared at the C ustoms to-day with a full general cargo for Samoa and Levuka. He will pro bably sail to-morrow The s.e. Rowenaleft for Tauranga this morn- with a full cargo and several passengers. The s.s. Wallabi. which left the Manukau last night for Wanganui, took the following pas sangers :-*Misses Miller and Murray. Messrs Mahoney, Hastings, and Howe. The cutter Phoenix entered inwards to-day from Russell with a cargo of 46 ton 3 coal. The schooner Orpheus is to leave for Napier via Mercury Bay this afternoon. The schooner Minnie Hare has -cleared out wards for Ngungurti, where she is to load timber. The barques Island City and Apelles are expected to sail this evening or to-morrow morning.

Fire-water inclosed in bottles which for merly held the most popular and agreeable medicinal beverage of the century, Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps, is being sold by unscrupulous traders upon the public health. These fiery poisons often bear imitation labels to render the deception more complete. Beware of them. Demand and re ceive none but the genuine.

BIRTH.

COBLEY.—On the Ist March, IS7B, at her resi dence. North Shore, the wife of W. H. Cobley of a son. FITNESS.—On the Ist March, 1878, at her resi elence, Newton Road, the wife of E. Fitness of v son. McDONALD.—On the 27th February, 1878, at Wiveiiscombe Farm, Aotea. the wife of Mr. f;'Charles E. McDonald of a sou.

MARRIAGE.

DOULL—GLADDING.—On February 28, 187 S. at the residence of the bride, by the Rev. R. Tay'or, David, youngest son of the late James Doull, Dunbartonshire, Scotland, to Alberta Emily, eldest daughter of Mr. A. W. Gladding, Hyde "Vale, Kingsland Road, Mount Albert.

DEATH.

BROWN.—On the Ist March. 187S, at the Pro vincial District Hospital, after a short illness, Mary, the beloved wife of Samuel Brown, in her 40th year. For many years matron of the Provincial Hospital. Deeply regretted by all who knew her. The funeral will leave the Hospital to morrow (Sunday), at half-past 2 o'clock p.m. Friends please accept this invitation. PAUL.—On the 27th February, after a long and painful illness, Matilda, sixth and youngest daughter of Air. James Paul, College Road, in her 19th year. Deeply regretted by all who knew her. The funeral will leave her parents residence on Sunday, 3rd instant, at i p.m. Friends please accept this intimation. SCHOLKS.—On the 28th February, at Newmar ket, Caroline, the beloved wife of John Scholes, of Mangarai, aged 53 years. The funeral will leave her daughters resi dence, Newmarket, on Sunday. 3rd instant, at 3 p.m. Friends are respectfully invited.

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

SATURDAY. MARCH 2, 1878.

totihe cfiute tbat Isckzsss&iccc, Pot tho yuoag th&t needs tcslsttocfc t'oj the fxtme 1b tbe dlitanffC,

Every day the cable news becomes more warlike. To-day's despatches, announcing the placing of the Guards on a war footing, evidence a determination to put every available man in the" field in the event of a rupture. With an effort, an expeditionary army of 100,000 first-class troops might probably be made available at the opening of a campaign, and this number could be strengthened indefinitely as the war pro gressed. Sir Stafford Northcote's speech exhibits the confidence of the Government in its ability to defend national interests should they prove to be assailed in the treaty of peace, which is still for some unknown reason kept secret.

We are glad to notice that greater interest has been taken in the election of school com mittees so far as they have proceeded, al though in some districts —City West for example—parents still manifest a singular _supineness in a matter of primary importance to their children. A telegram from Dunediu a few weeks ago statedthatat the annual meeting of householders for the Middle School Dis trict, a thousand persons were present. In contrast with this, the best-attended of our school meetings is a failure. Yet we have a right to expect that those parents whoie children are receiving education in a public school should have sufficient concern for its well-being to give au # hour or two once a year for the purpose of exercis ing the privileges which parliament has conferred upon them, and in which they have a large personal stake. Com plaints against school management when the patents thus neglect their own duty are unreasonable and futile. No system could be more fully representative than that under which our school districts are go verned ; and, if it fails, it must be because that the people themselves are not sufii ciently advanced to exercise such powers. Considering the total neglect and strong adverse feeling which the education system of Auckland encountered at first from those who were charged with working it, the efficiency of the schools is remarkable, and has done much to overcome prejudice and win a firm public suppoit for a national secular system of education. No little credit for this result is due to the gentlemen — few in number — who de voted their time and energies to the task. If the early meetings were not large, they became, by a principle of natural self-selection, representative of the intelligence of the district, and those who controlled them were men who felt a deep conviction of the greatness of the cause in which they were voluntarily labouring. The public have reason to feel pleased with the result. But it must be pointed out that national education has passed out of the embryo state. Ithasreachedastagewhen heavy burdens ,are imposed on the colony for its maintenance. Its permanency and efficiency can, therefore, only be ensured by astrong andactive publicfeeling. Influences in a contrary direction are active enough, and those who long to see every section of the community enter freely and on equal terms into the great temple of knowledge must be vigilant. Surely the education of the people who are to follow us and build up this coun try into a great nation is worthy of every man's time and attention. Ques tions so momentous are not presented every day ; and when we think of the thousand and one trifles on which men fritter away their hours, we can only contemplate with dismay their manner of dealing with matters upon which the whole future of the people will turn. No words are too strong to impress the importance of the subject which the current annual meetings of householders have once more brought pro minently in view, and we feel some degree or. responsibility in asking eveiy colonist to consider thoughtfully the personal duty which the Education Act has imposed upon him.

We publish in another column a full report of the discussion which took place this morning with reference to the slaughter house question between the Hon. .the Colonial Secretary, and a deputation of Remuera residents. The Colonial Secretary said the determination of the Government was absolutely to close the Newmarket slaughterhouse at the end of the current month unless it were beyond all doubt that sufficient accommodation was available at the city abattoirs or elsewhere, and even in that case the continuance of the Newmarket slaughterhouse would only be permitted from day to day until the want is supplied. This, of course, definitely settles the question of the Newmarket slaughterhouse. An advertise ment is published in another column, giving a list of butchers who pledged themselves to support the new abattoirs on condition that the fees should not exceed those current at the time of opening. |8A choice ghost story comes from the Moama correspondent of the " Riverma

To-day the Rev. MifTomlinson entertain ed at his private residence, Onehunga, the whoie of the Episcopalian choirs- lhis evening a service of song will be given in St. Peter's Church. The preliminary diggings on the Frencn. side of the Channel tunnel are completed j the shaft has been continued down to the required depth below the lowest neap tide level, and the sub-marine gallery is being run out for a hundred yards, by way ot experiment. If all goes well with the trial works, the construction of the tunnel is to be begun without further delay. Mr Nancarrow, Inspector of Steamers, has received a testimonial of £100 from ids frimds iv Wellington, on the eve of his departure for Europe. It is believed that outstanding subscriptions, which will 1, . f^.-T-flp.l v'-mi got 1.1, W H USiiOU-.lt tO

The total amount of retorted gold for the mouth from the Alburnia mine is 1740 ounces.

A battle is being waged (says the " Ex aminer ") between the ladies pf Alsace and the Berlin postal authorities, in which we are sorry to say that the ladies have been worsted. In order to shew their patriotic hatred of the Teuton and love of La Belle France; they write the addresses on then letters to Germany with blue ink, which with the red postage stamp and the white paper, forms the tricolour they defy_ their enemies with. Letters to France, which re quire a blue stamp, are furnished with the addresses written with red ink, whereby they inform their French frieudsof their unalterable sentiments in cruel exile. Bat the German Post-office official—true to his popular, or rather unpopular sobriquet of Kameel, "Camel"—at last refuses to see any humour in this practice, and with his blackest ink effectually effaces the colour of the stamp. To the Editor: Sir,—We have lately heard so much from certain clergymen about the deplorable effects of secular education in America (one, who is now in Auckland, having gone so far as to accuse every woman, in that country of annual infanticide), that I was quite delighted to see your extract last night about the moral condition of Holland ; and I wish to call the attention of the opponents of secular education to the fact that the system has now been in torce there for twenty-one years, and has evkleutlyimproved, at ieast, the commercial morality of the Dutch. Yours etc., P.L.

"T. L." chaffs the advertising Valentine issued by our contemporary. He observes : " In one instance a young gentleman is shew ing to a lady next him a placard on wbich is an advertisement of "D. Evitt, gun maker," as though the lady would be likely to go in for shooting : and in another portion of .the Valentine, a bald-headed old gentle man who ought to know better is directing the attention of a blushing young lady to an advertisement calling upon all and sundry to " try Coonibe's guinea trousers made to order," and the young lady seems to be taking a lively interest in the advertise ment. A few other little oddities like this are scattered through the Valentine, and give it at least an appearance of originality." The A.R.C. trial fours contest yesterday evening, was won by the Manukau Maid with several lengths to spare. The second heat is to be pulled this evening. The Bishop of Dunedin has, we under stand, left hisdiocese to attend the Lambeth Conference, which is to be held in London in July. The Bishop of Canterbury goes home via Suez in April, foi the same reason. He will be accompanied by his son-in-law, the Hon. J. B. Acland, M.L.C.andis likely to be absent about eight months. The other New Zealand bishops do not propose to attend the Conference.

The "New Zealand Times" Company, like almost all journalistic speculations started under such auspices, nearly collapsed tiie other day when a motion to wind up the company was proposed, but negatived. Mr Edward Perkins, landlord of the Occidental Hotel, Ls now in Dunedin, whither he arrived from Melbourne en route for this city. Koport has it that the cute Edward landed a goodly sum on the Dunedin Cup and other races.

Civilisation is making rapid strides amongst the Maoris. In Napier some of the '-swell" chiefs keep private carriages ; on the West Coast they have set up a grand piano, upon which a Maori musician plays dance music aud operatic selections; another Maori up North has married a European woman, aud writes on social questions to the newspapers ; King Tawhiao aud his Secretary have lately obtained the privilege of franking telegrams, and up at Uhinemuri the Maoris have got a telephone. But it has been reserved for M;dko Pakeha, a chief of the Waikouaiti district, to take a far higher flight, even to the extent of emulating the greatest achievements of his European neighbours. Maiko has shewn his high appreciation of our free British institutions by going into the Bankruptcy Court. Ilia liabilities are £200, and his assets £25 ; what more need be said ? la not this a free country ?

Tho entries for the sports at the approach ing autumn meeting of the Auckland Ama teur Athletic Club close to-nightat 9 o'clock at the Club room, Thames Hotel, where the Secretary will be in attendance to receive them. The entrance fee for Handicaps is 2s 6d, and for level races la. The boys' race has already secured a large number of en tries, and will beone of themost interesting events of the meeting. Tho prizes, which are of a very substantial and useful charac ter, as well as highly ornamental, are on view in Mr Kohn's window, where they form a very attractive feature. The order in which the events are to come ofF will be given by advertisement'early next week. Miss Ada Ward is a passenger by the Rotorua, which vessel should arrive here on Monday night with tho Southern portion of the mails for England and America. As this accomplished actress goes on bytheZea landia, the Auckland public will not hay c an opportunity of witnessing her perform ance, which our contemporaries agree are of a very high order.

Tickets for the organ recital on Monday may be purchased at Messrs Edson's, McMaster's, and Phillips and son's.

The committee of the Amateur Athletic Club met yesterday afternoon, Mr Cotton presiding. The following gentlemen were elected members of the Club :—Messrs Pembcrton, Hanna, Symonds, Aitkeu, Neil Macky, and Alexander. Some business relative to the meeting last night was then proceeded Avith. Mr J. E. Macdonald will be judge, Mr King starter, and Mr Colson timekeeper. A committee of stewards was also appointed. Entries close to-night.

Dipththeria has brokenbut at Wanganui

It is rumoured that Mr Harper, member for Chevoit, intends to resign his seat in the House of Representatives, and that the vacancy will be contested by Mr Ward, late member for the Wairau, in the Government interest, and Mr Studholme, a supporter of Major Atkinson. Mr Ward is a very old and much-respected settler in the district, but his views on the education question may militate against his election. Mr Studholme is largely interested in the dis trict, but his intimate connection with the squatter party is likely to render him un popular with a considerable section of the electors.

Dr. Moran, the Catholic Bishop of Dune din, accompanied by the Rev. Father Fynes, drove out yesterday to Onehunga, where he was received by the Rev. Father Paul, and shewn over the grounds and buildings of the Catholic Mission Station. Soon after his arrival he prooeeded to visit the girls' select school, where he remained a considerable time, being evidently pleased with what he saw and heard. Some of the pupils played nicely on the piano, and others recited ; and the good order and decorum displayed by all in attendance left a favourable impression on his Lordship's mind. He next visited St. Joseph's Girl's School, and here the pupils sang very well, and presented his Lordship with an address of welcome. Afterwards he visited the Boys' School, and he spoke in high terms of praise of the writing and exercises submitted for inspection. His Lordship expressed a desire then to see some of the pupils Avork some questions _in arithmetic on the black board, after which he tested them himself with a successful result; and evidently from the expert man ner in which he handled the chalk, he is no mere tyro in mathematics. In fact, his Lordship showed that he could teach, as well as preach. Dr. Moran has taken great interest in education, andseems competent to speak on the subject, not only theoretically, but practically. He spoke very highly of the educational establishments under the charge of the Rev Father Paul, and in fact he was both pleased and surprised to find them in such good efficiency. His Lord ship was greatly delighted with his visit to Onehunga, and returned to Auckland abcut '3 o'clock in the afternoon in company v. iil. il.c I'ev FaUier I'ynes.

We understand that the Government yes terday afternoon paid the City Council the Water rates due in connection with the Post office, and resumed the key of the meter. The water was immediately turned on to the Post-office, Custom House, and Telegraph Buildings. It is due to the Chief Post master to add that the war has not been with the Post-office, for that department only occupies one portion of this building, and the water bill is against the whole of the offices. The accounts are paid by Major Green; and Mr James Stewart, as Kesident Engineer, has charge of the building on behalf of the Public Works Department. The dispute arose in consequence uf doubts as to the correctness of the meter, or the way it has been read—2o2,ooo gallons of water having been consumed in less than two months. The padlock wa& not put on by the Chief Postmaster, but by the order of Major Green, who was instructed to have it done, from Wellington. It is also contended that every consumer has a right to lock hia meter (not interfering with the lock put on by the Council), just in the same manner as he is entitled to lock his house-door, giving the turncock access when asked to do so. What was objected to was the meter being read when no officer was present on behalf of the Govern ment to certify to its correctness.

A little girl neatly dressed was found by a working man alone in the street last night and was taken by him to the station. The child stated that her mother, who lived in Chapel-street, was very drunk. Constable Hogau laid the child on to some new blankets just received from Welling ton. The dustman came and closed the child's eyes until one o'clock this morning, when the mother, who had recovered from her drunken bout, took the child away. The mother of the child, once the wife of an official, has given way to drinking during the last few years, and has several times been in Mount Eden.

§§We notice with regret the death of Mrs Brown, the wife of Mr Samuel Brown, who died yesterday in the Provincial Hospital, in her 40th year. This lady has been the much-respected matron of the Hospital for a number of years, where her uniform kind ness won the esteem of all persons within the circle of her matronly care. The funeral of the deceased lady will take place to-morrow afternoon, and will be attended by the Foresters of Court Zealandia, of which ancient order the husband of de ceased is a brother. The funeral will leave the Hospital at three o'clock. The brethren of the Court will meet at two o'clock at the Young Men's Christian Association, Wellesley-street. We understand that it is intended to erect a factory for the purpose of refining the White Island Sulphur, a specimen of which is on view in the window of Mr King, chemist.

We have to acknowledge receipt of 1 bag of potatoes, 1 bag of onions, and 5s in cash from Mr Roberts, of Oneliunga, for Mrs Dymock, whose ca-e is a very deserving one.

The Inaugural meeting of the St. James' Mutual Improvement Association will be held iv the Temperance Hall on Monday evening next. A good programme and free admission.

"An Ex-warder of Mount Eden Gaol" writes, drawing attention to a grievance which has before been referred to in these columns, and should receive the attention of the Government. When a warder of the Goal, he says, " I was on duty from 5.30 in the morning till 5.45 in the evening. This is day work. Then twice a week I stopped on till 8 p. in. ; then 'vent home and got food for the next day ; returned and slept in the gaol enclosure, to be ready iv case of. lire or any other alarm during the night; then started at 5.30 again next morning, and stopped till 5.45 p.m. that day, having been about for 34 hours. The warders are under obedience to the Government. Night duty: They go on night duty at Bp.m., and stop on till 5.50 next morning, and are responsible for the correctness of the gaol during the long hours of night. Now, sir, for this vast amount of duty and long hours they are paid the munificent sura of 6s 2^d per diem ; or monthly, £9 6'a 3d. Other gaols under the same Government are paying their officers—the lowest is 7s per diem, and some as high as O.s, aud some 10s per diem. Now, sir, this is not fair play to Auckland. I leave you to judge for yourself whether this cause wants assistance or not. Now, sir, I have spent some long days and wearisome nights for the pay I have mentioned, and surely if any officials are under-paid and over-worked, it is the Auckland gaol warders." Particulars of Sunday serviceswill be found in another column. The evening service for the people in the Theatre Royal at the usual hour.

NEWMARKET SLAUGHTERHOUSE.

DEPUTATION TO THE COLONIAL

SECRETARY.

A DEPUTATION of Remueni residents, consisting Of Dr J. L. Campbell, Messrs J. Baber, J. Williamson, J. P. King, W. Aitken, Sellars, Kerr, and Dr Goldsbio' waited on the Hon. Col. Whitmore, Colouial Secretary, to-day, with reference to the Newmarket Slaughterhouse. Mr J. Baber, in| introducing the deputa tion, said, we wait upon yeu, Colonel Whitmore, as Colonial Secretary, on behalf of some of the resideuts of Remucra, with a request that you will take euch steps as you may thinksproper to get the Newmarket Slaughterhouse closed at as early a date as it can be done. Three petitions were pre sented to the late Provincial Government at three different times unanimously signed to the same effect. The chief objections are the stench arising from it notwithstand ing all means used. The stench ia always very bad, especially along the Onehunga and Tamaki roads. The drain, &c, from this slaughter-house is carried down a gully of about 30 chains to the sea and seriously damages the value of property, some of which, however, belongs to absentees. In one case the property is worth a mere nothing, but were it not for this nuisance would be of some value. Another objection is the driving of cattle in a furious manner along the roads to the slaughterhouse constantly, and this ia dangerous both to women aiid children. A perpetual nuisance of this kind not only seriously damages property, but is un pleasant and unwholesome to many residents in the neighbourhood. I will not say anything further with reference to the danger" to health, but will lay before you the printed opinions of two medical men— Dr Goldsbro' and Dr. Stockwell.

Dr. Goldsbro' : I may state the date of that is four years ago, and since that report was published the floor and guttering have been better looked after; but the main nuisance exists there now as heretofore.

Mr Baber : Dr. Stockwell's report is much later, and bears out Dr. Goldsbro's report. The Colonial Secretary : I see that Dr. Stockwell's report is dated as late as the 26th January, IS7B.

Mr J. P. King :—There is an especially good and spacious abattoir at the Western Springs, and the space is not fully occupied at the present time. Before the new abattoirs were built, 26 butchers pledged themselves to use that place, and it -was believed that they -would keep their promise; but they now stultify themselves by keeping up that miserable place at Newmarket, because of the system of extreme surveillance that is exercised to ensure that wholesome meat shall be killed there and brought into town. I heard an instance where one of the butchers at the new city abattoirs killed a sheep that was unfit for human food. It was condemned by the Inspector, "Oh" said the butcher, "it would not be condemned if killed at Newmarket. Half of it is good." The Inspector aaid, "what would you have done with that other half if you had been killing at Newmarket?" '• Oh," replied the butcher, " send it to the hotels." The Colonial Secretary: For strangers like myself to eat, I suppose ! Mr King : You will see in the STAR of this evening a complete list of the butchers ■who pledged themselves to us 3 the new

city abattoirs, some of whom have aot kept their word. (The list appears m our advertising columns.) Mr James Williamson: The chief objection arises fiom the fact that the Newmarket slaughterhouse is in the centre of a cense population, one of the most densely populated of our suburbs, and wa all know that where the offal of cattle is, it breeds an aggregation of insect life in the district, and some of the houses are literally filled with it. Mr Baber: Yes, they infest many houses. , , , Dr. Goldsbro : Typhoid fever has been very prevalent in the place, and the deaths have been numerous. That danger exists even at the present time. The Colonial Secretary : Well, gentlemen if no other member of the deputation ha any further remarks to offer, I think I Cftii o-iveyoua satisfactory answer now. Itw the intention of the Government absolutely to close that slaughterhouse as soon as possible, and it will be possible on the 31st. of this month without breaking the lease or doing any injustice whatever. There is no intention to re-let it by lease at all, but a circumstance was brought to my knowledge the other day—l cannot say it has been proved—which commands, and must receive attention at once. The butchers say the new city abattoirs are not large enough to accommodate all the butchers of the town, and I understand from another communication -which I have, that it is not at all intended by the city authorities to insist upon every one of the butchers "oing there. If, for instance, the Borough of Parnell likes to have an abattoir in somo other place—Ellerslie, or elsewhere—the town clerk informed me1 yesterday, the city authorities will not have the least objection to that—if the new abattoirs do not provide accommodation enough. I have a communication here to the following effect:—" The new abattoirs would suit all the butchers, with the ex ception of the 5 at Parnell and Newmarket, I with whom the City Council of Auckland have no wish to interfere." If, as they state, they wish to close the Newmarket Slaughterhouse for sanitary reasons, I cannot see why they should have no desire to iutercfere with them. I think it is obvious that there must be some place for slaughtering cattle, and if there is not enough room at the city abattoirs it will not be possible to close the Newmarket one until some other place has been provided, but it would be foolish to release it, because that would keep it open longer than necessary for providing some other Slaughterhouse. Mr King : On the Ellerslie estate there is a Slaughterhouse at present being built expressly for the butchers, and there is a Slaughterhouse at Ellerslie which formerly all the butchers killed in. The only reason they want to retain this Slaughterhouse at Newmarket is because the butchers in the immediate neighbourhood have now a very short distance to go to get the meat to their shops, or to take the cattle to be killed. The Colonial Secretary . nave men tioned what would be the extreme course ; there is not room enough at the Springs, and no other place available besides Newmarkei3 The very utmost the Government would do would be to keep the Newmarket slaughter house open from day to day until some other place is found. Meantime I will take steps to ascertain what the actual accommodation is. Dr Hector will be up here in a day or two, and I hope to induce him to go with a mem ber of the Butchers' Association and a representative of the Council to visit that place and give its cubic contents. I have got an official return here. Colonial Whitmore here quoted from a return made by Mr Mahony, architect, shewing that at the opening of the City abattoirs the charge for the cattle was 2s 6d at Newmarket, which was now reduced at the Springs to Is, and for sheep 6d which had been reduced to 3d, The space of the slaughterhouses enclosed was shewn to be 3,702 square feet, and roofed stockyards 2,672 feet, making a total of 6,374 square teet. Whether or not this is sufficient for the number of cattle re quired for Auckland, I am not competent to answer at once. The fact of my having got that communication shews you I am determined to be satisfied whether or not there is room before I resolve to close the •Newmarket place. That shall be done at the very earlist date consistent with proper provision for killing. Mr King : Their grievance is this : The cattle yards are at Newmarket, and the butchers have to drive the cattle to the springs. Of course, the butchers who wantlio keep open the Newmarketslaughter house raise every objection they can, but the real reason is that they have to drive their cattle to the city abattoirs instead of putting them into the Newmarket yards at once.

The Colonial Secretary : Their motives or the interests affected are not matters that we need trouble ourselves to discuss now. I shall not re-lease the Newmarket slaughterhouse on any terms. I shall abso lutely close it, unless it be made clear to me that there is not accommodation at the city abattoirs or elsewhere.

The deputation thanked the Colonial Secretary for his courtesy aud withdrew.

RELIGIOUS MONTHLY SERIALS.

The March number of the "Church Gazette " for the diocese of Auckland and Melanesia contains, in addition to .the usual amount of information, a siipple niental report of the Melanesian Mission for the past year, with notices of pi ogress in the islands of the New Hebrides, Banks', Solomon, and Norfolk Islands, which will be read with much interest, especially by Churchmen who take an interest in the diffusion of Christianity among the native population. The diocesan and parochial sections of the " Gazetie " are full of items, some of a pleasing and some of a mournful character. We notice that the Bishop has awarded 29 prizes to the successful scholars of the various Sunday-schools of the diocese. Among the prize-takers this year the scholars of the Holy Trinity school, Devon port, bear the palm ; there being no less than seven from that school. Besides several articles of interest, the present number has two biographies, one of the late Bishop Williams, and one of Mrs Selwyn, the wife of the Bishop oi Melanesia. The tribute to this excellent lady's memory is brief and well-deserved. A number of useful extracts from standard works, and Sunday-school lessons for the month, add to the value of this issue.

"St. Paul's Parish Magazine."

A considerable amount of local and church information will be found on the outer pages of this interesting monthly. Dnring the Sunday evenings of Lent Rev. C. M. Nelson will preach a series of sermons ou " Our Talents," with practical sugges tions as to'their proper uses. Owing to the increase in the number of Sunday scholars, the services of several ladies and young men as teachers will be acceptable. A brief account of a presentation to Mrs Nelson by the majority of the children also appears. To-morrow Sir Swallow will commence his duties as organist at St. Paul's. The return of offertories and a full calendar occupy the two last pages of the " Magazine." Among the inner contents will be found a biography of Dr. Bray, sketches, a sermon, and an excellent poem by t'ae late Dean Alford.

The "New

Zealand Presbyterian

Church News."

This representative publication sustains character for literary ability and thought ful writing. Thd opening articles are statistical, and treat of figures in relation to the churches and schools and the Day spring. The " Church and Modern Thought" will be carefully read and considered. Professoi Flint's address, and Dr Richardson's sermon on " Who can bend the Bow ?" are full of sound material for reflection, and are profound and scholarly. An extract from the ' • Daily Review" on Presbyterianism in London, gives a true idea of its progress in the metropolis and suburbs. This sketch is quite a miniature history of the Presbyterian Chinches in London. Koivsof the Churches

recounts the progreFs of religion in +v colony, and the general- news section;* filled with many curious facts from nrt,* lands. A poem, " The minister's Salfc Nigef'is much above the averse 2S V' of such productions and breathes of tIT peaceful spirit of true poetry. AltoaetW the present number assists in sustain? the reputation of the "Presbyterian Neva*

CABLEGRAMS.

ENGLAND'S PREPARATIONS FOR WAR.

BRIGADE OF GUARDS OK

"WAR FOOTING.

ENGLAND WILL VINDICATE HER

RIGHTS.

AMERICAN SILVER COINAGE.

[eeutek's special telegrams],

LONDON, March 1. The brigade ot Guards has been placed on a war footing.

The Channel Squadron is at Malta.

Sir Stafford Northcote, in reply to agnes tion in the House of Commons, said the Go vernment was not in possession of informa tion regarding the peace conditions between Russia and Turkey, but, if they were found' injurious] to British interests, the Govern ment was fully prepared to vindicate Great Britain's right?. ' The United States Silver Coinage Bill was passed on reconsideration by a two thirds majority of the Senate, on Thursday, setting aside the Presidential veto, and it therefore becomes law.

San Francisco Mails.

The s.s. Australia left San San Francisco on the ISth Feb., the contract date.

The City of New York arrived at San Francisco on the I9th February, one day before her time-table date.

THE GREATEST LIVING PRIMA

DONNA.

The folio wing notice of the greatest living prirna donna may not be out of place just now :—Madame Adelina Patti is incom parably the best prirna donna assoluta on the operatic stage. Had fate denied her the glorious voice which she possesses, she would certainly have gained name and fame as an actress. Unlike many of her sister vocalists, who are never able to forget their OAvn identity on the stage, la Patti throws herself heart and soul into every part she undertakes, and is con sequently almost always successful. Ever since her debut, which took place nearly seven years ago, the little songstress has " been positively idolised by English, Rus sian, and Austrian opera audiences. At Covent Garden the habitues are notoriously cold and silent, but Patti's entrance never fails to evoke the most enthusiastic applause. Mdme. Patti inherits her vocal powers from her mother. That lady was at one time employed as washerwoman in a laundry at Kome. Nature had given her a fine voice, and one day as she was singing at her tub she was heard by the Maestro Barili- who freed her from the thraldom of soap-suds, gave her a musical education, and finally married her. By-anct-bye the pair found themselves at the Rio Janeiro Opera. There fate, in the person of a young Italian tenor named Patti, overtook them. The wife sang with the tenor, fell in love, and eloped with Mm. Barili drowned Ms sorrow in the flowing boyrl, while his wife solaced herself by bearing four children to her lover —Carlotta, Adelina, Amelia, and Carlo. La Barili was not blessed with too sweet a temper, and once so far forgot herselt as to fling poor Carlotta down stairs. Mdlle Carlotta Patti, it will be remembered is lame. After a time Barili very consider ately drank himself to death, and the tenor married his mistress, thereby, according to Roman law, legitimatising the children. Signora Patti thus turned into an honest woman, became mpst devout, every morning she went to church .and heard three masses. She is now buried at the Campo Verano, beneath a marble cenotaph erected by her famous daughter. Adelina has, iv some ways, walked in her mother's footsteps. For many months before she married him, the Marquis de baux, metaphorically speaking, followed her about on his knees, till at last dazzled by his rank, she accepted him. There was no pretence of love in the matter, it was just an affair de convenance. All went well for a time, in fact until Mdme Patti met with Mr Nicolas, the tenor—better known as Signor Nicolini. This young man who is the son of an Ostend or Dieppe hotel keeper, not only has a first-class voice, but is fairly personable. He was naturally struck with La Marquise who but for her complexion (which does not shew at night) would be a very pretty woman. She reciprocated his affection, not only passionately, but almost openly. There was plenty of talk about it behind the scene at Covent Garden indeed every body seemed to know and observe what was going on, but the husband who it was wickedly suggested would play the part of mari complaisant for good solid pecuniary reasons. At last however, it was impossible for the Marquis to shut his eyes any longer and then followed all that has been, reported in the " Home News." Accusations and counter accusations. Appeals for divorce from the husband and ditto from the wife. The decision of Paris tribunal, before jwhoni the case was tried, can scarcely have been very satisfactory to the lady. She has lost half her fortune, and although parted from her husband cannot marry again. In a paroxysm of rage or remorse, it is difficult to say which, she fled to a convent in Brittany directly she heard the news and announced her inten tion ot taking the veil. Luckily for the opera going wprld,however, ajweman in her position cannot be received, into a convent. After a few weeks sojourn there, Mdme. Patti emerged, and even condescended to renew her contract (£250 per night and

extras) with the impressairo of Covent Garden for 187 S. We hope the idea of seclusion in a convent may not suggest itself to her again, at any rate for some time to come. Adelina Patti, with all her faults, is an operatic artiste the like of whom we are scarcely probable to see again during the nineteenth ceuturv. Max.

CRICKET MATCHES.

PER "STAR" CARRIER PIGEON.

M'ARTHUR AND CO. V. A. CLARK AND SON.

A MATCH was played this afternoon between the employe's of Messrs W. M'Arthur and Co. and Messrs A. Clark and sou.—We append the score :— .

EPSOM V. REMUERA.

A very interesting match is being played this afternoon betwen the Epsom v. Remuera Cricket Clubs. We append the score : —

VICTORIA C.C.. V. NEWMARKET. Domain, 2 p.m. A very interesting match between .these Clubs commenced at 2.30. Two very good teamc have been selected, and therefore a close match is anticipated.

CARLETON V. CHORAL HALL C.C. These two Clubs played a friendly match in tho Dop.k i 1 this afternoon.

EVENING STAR SATURDAY, MARCH % 1878



JUST OPENED. 1 CASE GENTLEMEN'S REGATTA SHIRTS Of a Superior Quality of FRENCH CAMBRIC, and the mo3t Fashionable Patterns. W. RATTitAY, CLOTHIER & MEN'S MERCER, TVMC W rj KAL AN D TT OUS X, 65, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. T~~WENTY7PER CENT. DISCOUNT FOR A SHORT TIME ONLY ! FANCY DRESS MATERIALS, " FURNISHING GOODS, BLACK SILKS, BLANKETS, CALICOES. HOSIERY, —HABERDASHERY, LADIES' UNDERCLOTHING, CARPETS AND MATTING. CLOTHING OF ALL KINDS, FOR BOYS' AND MEN'S WEAR, HATS, GAPS, SHIRTS, &c. , AND EVERY DESCRIPTION OF GENERAL DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, AT m. TWENTY PER CENT, REDUCTION. FOUR SHILLINGS IN THE POUND ALLOWED UPON ALL CASH .PURCHASES. oi>3 Entered will be Charged Regular Prices. OUSHBROOK AND "ORIDGMAN, DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, &C, UPPER QUEEN-STREET, Auckland, (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel). T< H E GRAIN TRADE. TO FARMERS AND OTHERS. Acting on the suggestion of some of our con stituents, both Growers and Purchasers, we SALES OF GRAIN BY AUCTION, At our Stores in Cashel and Manchester-streets Our First Sale will be held on the Twenty first day of FEBRUARY, and we are satisfied that the establishment of this means of selling and buying Grain will prove of real benefit both to vendors and purchasers. . . . _ .„ , Samples of each lot to be submitted will be on view in store twenty-foiix hours before the day of sale. FACILITIES FOR STORING GRAIN placed in our hands, either at Christchurch or Lyttelton, and in case the market prices do not come up to the owners' views,we can undertake the shipment and sale of the Produce abroad. We are prepared to make LIBERAL ADVANCES upou it on favourable terms. ; ; We are a! wayH in receipt of the latest advices from the principal towns in the Colony, and also throughout Australasia, and will gladly afror information to tnose who confide their produc to our care. Our charges will be on a very moderate cale JAMESON BROTHERS & CO.. Christchurch. Vo-k, -r^V-'v -i.\;j 3u;)p!I-2:l r.t the lowes



GOTOTBY EDITIONS PUBLISHED at 12.30 p.m. (For WAIKATO), AND AT 3.30 p.m. mHE TOWN EDITION of the STAR is Published at the Office at 5 o'clock. nn & h. c o o k c Special Items:— DRAWING-ROOM SUITES WALNUT TABLES CARPE IS HEARTHRUGS LINOLEUM FLOORCLOTH IRON BEDSTEADS TOILETu LASSES CANK-SEATED CHAIRS TOILET-WARE DRAWERS MARBLE-TOP WASKSTAND3 MATTRESSES FEATHER BEDS. A Small Shimnent of CRETONNES and CASH j MERES, New Patterns. All Goods at Lowest Rates. delivered feee. Liberal Discount to Cash Buyers. Furniture Show-rooms .... 67, QUEEN-STREET Steam Cabinet Factory VICTORIA-3TRE^ 1 mo AGRICULTURISTS & OTHERS ji W. J. HURST « CO. have on sale the under mentioned Fertilizers, all of which have been proved to jroduce satisfactory results in this district. Experience teaches that large and pro^table returns can ha relied onby a judicious and liberal use of them. The flattering Testi monils from leading Fanners justify W. J. Jure & Co. in strongly commending them to every A griculturiat :— MALDEN ISLAND GUANO PERUVIAN GUANO MEXIO AN do. BEIjLc isONEFLOUR J and 1-inch BONEDUST BILLYARDS No. 1 do. NITRATE OF SODA SULPHATE OF AMMONIA MURIATE OF POTASH SUPER-PHOSPHATE OF LIME. SALT, SULPHATE OF LIME. In addition to the above, W. J. H. & Co. are i prepared to supply special Chemical Manures for stimulating weak Corn Crops, and renovat ing Clover-sick Pastures, as well as tho Potato and Mangold mixture that for the last two sea sons has attracted such favourable notice. Analysis, prices, and other particulars will bo supplied on application at the Store*. NY. J. HUItST & CO., 10). Hupf-n-strpor. SUPERIOR SAMPLhS of Sydney ami New Zealand Maize, Tartarian and Potato Oats, Table Potatoes, Flour, Oatmeal, Bran, Sharps, Barley, Jhaff, Oilcake Coal, &c, &c, always on hand. W. J. HURST & CO.. • 101, QUEEN-STREET. AUCKLAND Clover seeds. Clover seeds. Jasa- to Hand, ex ' Apeixes.' OUR FIRST SHIPMENT NEW SEASON'S OLOViCR SEEDS, CONSISTING OF White Clover Timothy Red Clover Rape Cow Grass Trefoil Alsyke &c, &c., &c. Turnip AXD A Fine Collection of Fakm and Garden Seeds. also, A Shipment of American Timothy, Samples of the above Seeds will bo forwarded on application. Poverty Bay, Canterbury, and local Rye Grass, Cocksfoot, Ratstail, Poas Fescues, &c, &c, from carefully selected samples, at lowest mar ket rates. j; HURgT & 101, Queen-street. m- CITY HAIjL -s» I^urnishi;ng Arcade. NEW GOODS JUST UNPACKED, AND QUITE NEW. CRETONNES, Large Lot New Colours and New Designs. ~ ~ /"New Brussels, from 4/9 r> a rt>ttt^ J New Tapestry, from 2/1 KsA±LFMiXa. <. jj ew Kidderminster, from 3/2 (.New Hearthrugs, from 6/6 . /New Shape Walnut Suites New Reps for do. Fob the I Green and Crimson Silk Rep) rjg DRAWING--? Black and Gold do. fO'o ROOM. Fawn and GOld .do. j i"g New Pattern Walnut Tables VNew Inlaid Flower Stand 3 12 feet wide, 3/ per yard FLOOR- 3 „ 2/ CLOTHS. ' Oil Canvas, /9 „ Linoleum, all width 3 Handsome White Twist and Bulh'on Fringes, for Bed Hangings Handsome White & Fancy Belgian Damask, for do. Turkish Towels, very large size, 1/3 and 1/9 Superior Fancy Oil Baiisos, for tables Immense Variety in Ladies' Dree 3 Button 3. Holloway, Garlick & Cranwell, City Hall Arcade, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. CABINET FACTORY .. Lokne-st.ee et



T HOSGKAVE & pO. WILL HOLD A GEE AT CLEARING SALE OF MEN'S AND BOYS' CjL OT II ING , • TO-MORROW. All .Goods Reduced to Cost Price. Inspection Invited. UNION INSURANCE COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND. A.PITAL _ £2,000,000. UCKLAJND BRANCH: QUEEN-S T R E E T, Next the Colonial Bank. FIRE DEPARTMENT. Insiiranc granted on Dwelling -houses, Stores, Shops, Buildings in whicli trade is carried on, Merchandise, and Goods of every description. MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers, Merchandise of all kinds, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at "OWKBT CURRENT RATES. R. H. STEVENSON Manager. ~O OVAL INSURANCE QCOMPANY. Special Notice to Insurers. This Company, having intimated to the In surance Association their Withdrawal from Tariff Arrangements, is now prepared to grant Policies on all descriptions of Property at equitable rates. Concessions will be made on first-class build ings and approved risks, in Town and Suburbs, and for water supply and other protection, where made available. Special arrangements will be made with Mortgagees, Solicitors, House Agents, Con tractors, and other large insurers. The policy of the Company is promptness and liberalityin the settlement of claims, and strictly honourable dealing in all its transactions. The Security of Insurers is unsurpassed by that of any Company doing business in the Colony. GEO. W. JONES, Agen . Office: Shortland-street, Auckland, Bth February, 1878. The usual Book and Sheet Almanacs for 1878 can be had on application, or on information being sent to the Office. GR. M c N A B, • Wholesale & Retail FAMILY GROCER, 30, QUISEN-STREET. XdT SKiI'V iN 'i H Vl* I 1 I. IK D. "V*