SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

~-,, ir mirrcn (This Afternoon, 10.10 KI{,H v\ Aij.lt— -) To-morrow Morning. 11.7 SUN Sl.T.—This Evening. 5.21

wTiN '■ '131..—T0-morrow Tvtornins, 6.37 MOON'S AG 1..-Last Quarter, 21th, 8,12 p.m

ARRIVALS.

Albatross, schooner, from Naoer. Taupo, s.s., Andrew, from Tauranga and the

South. Rowena, s.s., Sellers, from Tauranga. Minnehaha, schooner. Burke, from Lyttelton Taranaki, s.s., from the South.

DEPARTURES.

Wakatipu, s.s.. Cameron, for Sydney. Go-ahead, s.s., Hellander, for Gisborne.

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

For Taranaki and South (from the Manukau)— Taranaki, Tuesday, 23rdinst.; Taiaroa, Tues-

day, 30th inst. For Tauranga and the South—Taupo, Thursday,

25th For Russell, Bay of Islands—lona. every Mon day ; Taupo, Monday, 22ud, Wanaka, Mon day, 29th ,_ _ For Sydney and Melbourne—Hero, s.s., May 3 For Levuka—Thistle, cutter, at once. For Sydney—Rotorua, Tuesday, 30th

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Dunelm, barque (V.P.R.M.).from London early. Coromandel, barque, (P.C.F.D.), from London Sapohire, H.M.s., from Samoa, early Arabella, barque (R.P.Q.V.), from London;

saiiod January 21 Spirit of the Dawn, barque (H.T.V.C), from London ; sailed February 11 Aickshaw, barque (W.T.F.L.), from London,

sail-d.tan. 18 Omaha, brigantine, from Chatham Islands,

early Staff, barque, from Newcastle, early Leucadia. ship (J.M.T.8.), from London, early Hero, s.s., from Sydney and Melbourne; April

30th Rotorua, from Southern port 3; April 29th Helena, bri.antine, from Oamaru; sailed 13th Mazenpa, schooner, from Fiji, early Active, brigantine, from the Islands, early Nerval, schooner, from the Islands, early Ada, bnorantine, from the Islands, early Speedwell, barque, from Newcastle, early

IMPORTS.

Per schooner Minnehaha, from Lyttelton .— 250 sacks, 170 bags (100's), 880 bags (50's) flour, 250 sacks oats, 100 sacks oatmeal, 50 kegs butter. 10 cases bacon, 172 sacks barley.

EXPORTS.

Per s.s. Wakatipu, for syaney:—lo sacus oysters, 2 boxes, 11 sacks seed, 1 case, 1 package, 3 bags, 2 bales, and 2 bags fungu3, 30 tons potatoes.

The brigontine Helena commenced to load with grain at Oamarua, on the 9th inst.. for Auckland The schooner Kate McGregor sailed from Lyttelton for Auckland yesterday, with a cargo oi" grain.

The s.s. Go-ahead sailed on Saturday evening for Gisborne, with a general cargo. The s.s. Rowena arrived from Tauranga and Mercury Bay on Saturday evening, with a cargo of 210 sacks -wheat, and the following passen gers :—Mrs Jordon and son, Mr3 Fergusson, Messrs Nicholson, Meikleham, Thompson. Mc- Cormick. Rev. Mr Taylor and son, Mai or Ware. The schooner Minnehaha arrived in harbour on Saturday evening, from Lyttelton, with a cargo of grain. She sailed on the 13th, and ex perienced fair average weather. Tiie s.s. Taupo arrived in harbour from the South last evening, with a general cargo and tha following passengers:—Mr and Mrs Pillar, Mr and Mrs Thompson and daughter, Mr and Mrs Woods, Mr and Mrs Martin, Messrs Long, McDonald, King, Harney, Harvey, Mayor, Vin cent, Sraales, Wilson, Symons, Poynter, Wil liams. Jesse, Belcher, McKenzie, Gunn, Kene lev, Fraser, Wilkins, Helder, Cooke (2), Roche, Phillips, Paul, Verners, Martin (2), and 10 ex cursionists from Tauranga. The s.s. Wakatipu sailed on Saturday evening for Sydney, with a large cargo and tho following oassenger.:—Mr and Mr3 S. Jones, Messrs J. Bowman, J. Carter. Briggs, Pasco, Curtis, Peppercorn. Heape. J. Heap, Watson, Maberly, Lyons, Shaldrick, McLean, Franklyn, McKay, Graham, Fraser, T. Holmes, Kennedy, Quin, Hunter. James, Patley, Butler, Rowe, and 12 through from South. The s.s. lona is akvertised to make her v ual weekly trip to Russell land Northern ports 3to morrow.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under :- For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m.; and to morrow, at 5 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, to-morrow, at 4,30 p.m. and

5.30 p m. For Russell and Kawa Kawa, per Taupo, this

day, at 3 p.m. For Whitianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per

Rowena, this day, at i p.m. For Taranaki, Southern Provinces, and Austra lian Colonies, per Taranaki. to-morrow, at 8 a.m. For Money Orders and RegisteredLetters this day, at 4 p.m. For Port Fitzroy, per Water Lily, to-morrow, at

9 a.m. For Waiwera, Kawau. .maha, and Matakana. per Anne Milkbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Friendly Islands, per Lretitia, to-morrow.

at 3 p.m. For Russell, Kawa Kawa, Wangaroa. and M.n gonui, per lona, to-morrow, at 1 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Argyle, on Wednesday next, at

1 p.m. For Tauranga. per ;Lancashire Lass, to-morrow,

at 1;30p.m. Per s.p. Taupo, on Thursday, 25th inst, as follows:— _. , For India, China, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 2 p.m. For Tauranga, Gisborne, Napier, Southern Provinces, per Australian Colonies, United Kingdom, via Suez and Southampton (for letterigpecially addressed), at 3 p.m. For? London, via, Brindisi, and late letters for Southern Provinces and Melbourne, at 3.15 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 1.30 p.m. Should a later opportunity offer, supplemen tary mails will be forwarded. Per s.s. Australia, on Tuesday, 30th instant, as follows :— For Sandwich Islands, 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 Europesat3p.m. For money orders, registered letters and newspapers, at 9,30 a.m. Late letters bearing an extra fee of sixpence in addition to the post age will be received by the Mail A^ent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

DEATH.

HARRIS.—On April 19th, at Mount Pleasant, Auckland, William Vanderbilt Harris, of Annapolis, Nova Scotia, aged 27 years. His end was peace.—Nova Scotia papers alease copy. FEMTON.—On April 21. at his residence. 9?, Grey-street, Francis Fenton, father of W. H. Fenton, Queen-street, aged 60 years. The funeral will leave his late residence, for the North Shore Cemetery, to-morrow, at 3 p.m. Friends please accept this intimation.

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

MONDAY, APRIL 22, 1878.

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The latest phase of the Eastern problem is the proposed mediation of .Prince Bismarck, for the avowed purpose of removing the differences between England and Russia. His first suggestion is that Russian troops shall be withdrawn from Constantinople, and the British fleet from tho Sea of Marmora. Russia has already accepted the ollices of the German Chancellor, and the Cable messages in another column show that England has also given Id her adhesion to the proposal. Without harbouring any unjust suspicions against the would-be mediation, it may fairly be inferred from past relation between Berlin and St. Petersburg, and the ready acquiescence of the |latter Cabinet iv a needless intervention that the proposal is one made more in the interests of Russia than of England. It must be borne in mind that the demand of the British Govern ment was simply that a Congress of all the Great Powers should detern^iic an equitable adjustment of the European interests, which have been disturbed by Russian breaches of existing treaties, and it is unlikely that England has foregone that demand, but has only assented to the with drawal of her fleet as the distinctly under stood preliminary to a Conference on the basis of her original demand. Of course it may be assumed that the part allotted to Bismarck is of a circumscribed character : in short, that all he contemplates is the smoothing down of those asperities which now form a barrier to friendly negotiation at the Congress. It will also be urged that inasmuch as the presence of the British fleet before Stamboul would be without legitimate object if Russian troops were withdrawn from the vicinity of the Turkish crpital, a mutual retirement would not com promise the honour of either. The present evacuation of a position which on. her part could be resumed any day ai the cost of a few tons of coal might oven offer advantages to England in the event of war, placing the Turks in a better way for self defence, and depriving the Russians of very important offensive positions. While we hear of these pacific preparations, Russia is pushing forward military operations with tho object of getting Koumania more firmly within its iron grasp. It is true that British interests are not so materially affected by the retrocession of Bessarabia, as those of other Powers; but the active co-operation of Roumania would be an important gain should war ensue. The preliminary parley, moreover, while war preparations are being pushed on in every direction, looks so like a pretext for gaining time, in pursuance of a foregone determination by the British Cabinet to measure swords with Russia on a Turkish battle-ground for Eastern snpremaoy, that we mistrust all the professions of a desire for peace, and doubt tho efficacy of anything devised to accom plish that end without involving some degree of Russian humiliation. The latest telegrams announce that Russia favourably regards the negotiations proceed ings at Berlin, and that it is expected the ambassador will draft proposals for a Con gress of the Powers. On the other hand the misgivings' which we have given ex pression to above derive strength from the opinion of the French press. Meantime, however, England continues her -warlike preparations. The expor tation of torpedoes to foreign countries has been interdicted by a Royal proclamation, and one hundred and forty-five transports have been chartered at BombayJ to convey troops to Malta. This indicates that nothing le»s than a considerable Indian army corps is to be concentrated at the point of rendezvous in readiness for despatch to the seat of operations in case of warlike eventualities. The intelligence that the Roumanian army is falling back in the Carpathian mountains indicates that the Principality is in hopes of receiving Austrian aid. A new Turkish Ministry has been formed whose policy is hostile to British influence at the Turkish capital.

A Wellington telegram on Thursday referred to certain current talk bearing upon the Government policy of judicial reform. The reports went so far as to suggest possi ble changes in the roll of Supreme Court Judges, and a complete alteration in the Magistracy. These proposals are connected by rnmour with the accusations brought by Mr Barton against the Bench, and in order to estimate their probability, some reference to the nature of his allegations is necessary. Iv addressing a large public meeting at Wel lington, MrJ Barton charged Resident Magistrates with enforcing decisions in defiance of law, and Supren c Court judges with upholding radically bad judgments given by the lower Courts, in pursuance of a kind of professional free-masonry. He also alleged an undue familiarity between magistrates and the police, quoting a case in his own experience. It appears that when beginning practice in Wellington he was interrupted while addressing the Court by impertinent running comments from one of the police force. Mr Barton took credit for having done the bar of Wellington some service by effectually stopping this pra.tice. Describing the encounter, he said : —

I was not daunted, and after a fierce battle with the man in blue and with tbe Court, the unseemly interruption was stopped. You may now go into the Magistrate's Court and, I think you will never hear a policeman open his mouth, except when giving sworn evidence.--(Loud cheers.) Havinsr found such a state of things cropping out on the surface, I began to speculate as to what must be the state of things beneath the surface, and on inquiry I found that there existed among the poorer classes what I can only call a "reign of terror." I will mention no names, but I will tell you facts, and I have no doubt many in this room know them to be facts. There was a certain member of the police force who had great influence in Court, and that gentleman carried on a little trade, and had dealings of his own in a small way. Those who became obnoxious to him in the course of his business or otherwise were sometimes unfor tunate enough to get into trouble and into the lock-up. Mind you, |I am speaking of Police

man X.—(A Voice: We know him I) Th policeman has gone into the lock-up, put a pa ot hand-cuffs on the prisoner, and then boa him with his lists and kicked him with his heavy boots to Ms heart's content. (A Voice: That's true !> (Cheers.) That was the man whose influence was paramount in the Magis trate's Court. Kvery man can picture for him self whit sort of influence that was, and what must have been the condition of men and women subject to such a terrible influence as that.

When the Wellington Resident Magistrate demanded an inquiry into these statements, and the Government referred the matter to Mr Barton, that gentleman declined to accept the office of prosecutor, alleging that it was no part of a private citizen's duty, and expressing reluctance to put his charges iv such a specific form as would lay him open to a libel action. The refusal to make out a case definite enough for inquiry will weigh materially in judging of the amount of importance that should bo attached to Mr Barton's charges, and it is improbable in the extreme that the Government will base any measure upon loose, unproved assertions. If Mr Barton, however, again approaches parlia .ment by petition, we think he is entitled to very different treatment from that meted to him last session. His quarrel with the judges, and his open accusations _ against them, havenow assumed the proportions of a public scandal. Admitting that his own behaviour has hot been free from blame, the summary committal of a leading barrister to gaol for a month is an extreme measure and there should be no abseuco of sub stantial reasons for its justification. Inquiry might, indeed, be appropriately asked for by the committing judges, to clear the judicial office oftho.se suspicions of personal feeling that may be suggested by their pre vious relations with Mr Barton. Reviewing the reported Government reforms by the light of .Mr Barton's reply to Mr Ballance, we think it unlikely that tho allega tions already preferred will be seriously entertained as the motive of official action. Nevertheless it is within the bounds of pro bability that Mr Stout has some scheme affecting the judical system of the colony which will be submitted to parliament next session ; and the Government will hardly throw obstacles in the way of any in vestigation which Mr Barton may demand from the supreme authority iv the country and the only possible arbitrator between himself and those at whose hands he believes he has suffered wrong.

The number of inmates of the Provincial Lunatic Asylum at the present time is 120 men and 61 women.

The Easter feast of the resurrection of our Lord was celebrated yesterday at St. Patrick's Cathedral. High mass was held at 11 clock, celebrant, Rev. Father Macdon ald ; deacon, Rev. Father O'Dyer ; sub deacon, Rev Father Grange, who also assisted at solemn vespers at eventide.

The Hibernian Band water-excursion, to take place to-morrow Tuesday, is likely to be largely patronised. The Takapuna, which has been chartered by the share holders, will leave tho wharf at exactly 8 o'clock, unless the weather should pre vent. The band will perform a number of new tunes on the occasion.

A most revolting case of cruelty was witnessed by a few helpless passers by in Grey-street this morning. A very weary looking horse was attempting to draw a heavy cart of furniture up hill, but find ing it too much, stopped occasionally. This seemed te exasperate his inhuman master, who leaping out of the cart with a thick, heavy stick, rained vicious blows over the head' and eyes of the unhappy animal for nearly ten minutes. Of course noac;ho and intelligent constable was about. We learn from Mr Smith, fruiterer, of Queen-street, that tiie fellow who palmed off' a spurious sovereign on his daughter, purchased a pound of applrs. Another respectable citizen was cheated iv the same manner on Saturday, and he tendered the coin in payment of his beer at one of the hotels. The suspicions of the barman were aroused, and he submitted the coin to the inspection of several bystanders, v.-ho unanimously pronounced in spurious. "' lie police are on tne look-out for the sharj ji;s. Mj Stephen Massett drew,large an :ienccs at Oamaru.

Madame Marie MSller and her daughter Miss Annie was very successful in tho Promenade Ballad Concerts at Wellington. They visit Dunedin.

Sir John Cracroft Wilson, at his late speech, in which ho remarked that if " elected" he would donothing "dirty," had an audience of twelve to listen to him ; and one of tho late comers called out, somewhat "sarkastikally" as poor Artemus Ward would remark—" I say, old feller, why didn't you bring your " flute ?" In consequence of the liberality of the public and Mr Crowthcr in the case of Mrs Lampra, the proposed concert for the widow's benefit will be given iv favour of Mrs McConchio (or McConkie), whose husband met with the accident which caused his death, on the 3rd inst., at Gor man's works Parnell ; Mrs McConkie being in destitute circumstances. Two members of the amateur company of performers and minstrels visited the widow yesterday at her home in Water-street, Mount Eden, and found her and her five small children, the youngest a baby in arms, in absolute distress. The troupe therefore, have resolved to give the concert on or about the 10th May, for the benefit of this distressed family. The particulars of the concert will appear iv a future issue of tho Stak.

It has been decided to admit the children of the district schools to the circus, when under the charge of their teachers, for ls. each in the afternoon only.

Tho several English Churches of St, Paul's, St. Sepulchre's, aud St. Matthew's were pleasantly and artistically decorated yesterday ; and suitable sermons wero preached by the respective clergymen.

A special meeting of the Onehunga Borough Couucil, for the purpose of settling the Burgess List, will be held on Wednes day evening.

Mr Basstian, the Auckland chiropodist, informs farmers and pedestrians who have to do with grain and toe-corns, that he may be found at the Anchor Hotel, aud is pre pared to extract the throbbing thorns of nature from their cosy recesses, with com paratively little pain. A little patience at small cost, will effect a perfect cure under the hands of Mr Basstian.

We have been requested to acknowledge the receipt of £2 3s, collected by Mr Stan ford, of the York Hotel, Newton, on behalf of Mrs McConkie.

Onr own correspondent at Hamilton writes :—lu the matter of the statement re ported in your paper of the 15th inst. that the Ngatiraukawa and Ngtihaua chiefshad informed the Native Minister that the Tama here reserve had dwindled down from 1,000 to 800 acres, I have been requested by Captain Steele to inform thepublic, through the medium of your valuablo paper, that not a single acre of such reserve has passed into the hands of the Piako Swamp Com pany, the purchasers of the lots sold being xMessrs Pearson, Martin Bros., Leslie, S. S. Graham, Douglass, and others.

The- annual soiree and public meeting of the' Pitt-street Wesleyan School will be held to-morrow (Tuesday) evening. Tea on the tables at half-past six o'clock. At the meeting to follow, Mr T. McMaster will preside, and speeches will be made by Revs. T. Buddie, R. Taylor, and Messrs Martin and Salter.

There were fully 500 persons present at the Theatre services last evening, the addresses were delivered by Rev. R. Taylor and Mr. Wills, one of the students of the Theological College, Three Kings. Our statement a few week ago to the effect that if every attendant contributed one penny, the ex penses of the Theatre would be met, seems to have been taken too literally. This would be perfectly true if ALL contributed ; but, seeing that many people pass the box without any contribution —the pennies of the remainder do not amount to much, as will be seen from the fact that only 17s. 6d. was found in the boxes yesterday.

F-jMiss Ross, the Taeiri "fasting gbl"Jis believed to be dying,'

The following was the score in the pigeon match at Pokeno on Saturday last :— Bishop. 2 22 2222 20222022,26; Hender son, 120000220002220,13. The company afterwards partook of an excellent lunch provided by Mr Porter, of the Queen's Redoubt Hall, at which about 30 gentlemen were present. A sweepstake was then fired for, in which there were eleven com petitors, each being allowed four birds. Mr R. Wynyard won with the full number of points; Messrs Middleton and McGregor Hay scoring only one pointless. Sir, —Can you inform me through your widely-spread journal, t if it is a fact that the newly-arrived Circus people are pur chasers of live cats and dogs to feed the hyenas, and if so, to whom am I to apply ? I shall be glad to contract to supply a quantity of each. I can get no sleep at night through my neighbours' tomcats. I think I could spot at least seven of these ; while if I took a nocturnal walk, I believe in one street alone I could lasso about thirteen vagrant dogs. If a few of my friends would go and do likewise, we might rid the City of a great niiisauce, and there would be no more sleepless nights.—Yours etc., A Victim to CaterwaULLlNG.— [Our correspondent should consult the business manager. The story of his wrong will awaken a sympathetic throb in the breast of many a fellow-sufferer. If the Circus proprietors only forward his philan thropic project, their visit will be held in grateful remembrance. —Ed. E.S.) To the Editor : Sir,—For the information of those who have bought promoters' shares in the Black Reef Extended Gold Mining Company, now being floated, allow me to say that the whole of the ground formerly held by the Black Reef, and the Coromandel Companies, is now tho property of the "Black Reef Extended." Whether or not the directors of the old Companies know anything about it, I cannot say. Perhaps now they know that application for a tribute lias been made to the new Company, may be working them up to a sense of their late —well, say remissness. Anyhow, I suppose Mr llaiidcrson, who is floating the new Company, will bo able after the holidays to explain the matter more fully than I can, thus set your contemporary's correspondent right—Constant Reader. The "Bay of Plenty Times" welcomes the arrival of Mr and Mrs Percival Crane, who came out by the Fontinaye to settle at Katikati. Mr and Mrs Crane were received on arrival by a number of the Vesey Stewart settlers. A correspondent of the same journal comments in strong terms on the proposal to adjourn the Makctu Native Land Court, and says t _it until Sir George Grey visits the district the Government will" meet with nothing but opposition, as " the natives will give in to him but to no one else."

Bishop Barker, of Sydney, has caused considerable scandal iv religious circles by marrying, in his 67ih year, a dashing young woman of 32. Only a few months pre viously he had buried his former wife, whose graveside he had quitted with the words "Farewell till the resurrection !" The Bishop's health had been a matter of deep solicitude to the ladies in Sydney, and they recommended a trip to recreate, and it was during his trip that ho became enamoured with the dashing belle of 32.

A cricket match between the Auckland Bell-toppers aud Thames Club took place at Parawai on Saturday, the former going in first at the wickets. In their first innings they obtained a total of 79 ; Mr Robinson heading the list with 89 ; A. Whitaker, 16 ; Lench and Hayr, 11; and Mumford, 10. In the second innings of the Bell toppers Lynch made the capital innings of*3o, and carried out his bat, Tattersall, also not out, adding 24 to the total of 59. The Thames team scored 116 in their first innings, and did not play a second, Young adding the splendid score of 50, a:ul carrying out his bat. Whitford also scored 34, when he succumbed to a ball from Lynch. The utmost good feeling existed between the rival teams, and a large number of spectators, including a sprinkling of the fair sex, witnessed the play. At Coromandel on Friday the Bell toppers were victorious in one innings, with 116 runs to spare. An inquest was held thi3 morning at the Provincial Hospital, before Dr. Goldsbro', on the body of Michael McElroy, who died on Saturday from injuries received by a fall from bis horse at Waiuku. Mr Win. Hogg, of Newmarket, was chosen foreman. The jury having viewed the body of deceased in order to its interment, the inquest was adjourned until Wednesday afternoon at two o'clock, the several witnesses uot being able to be present until that day. Sergeant Jack son represented the police. From the Ist instant to the 31st July the following native game may be hunted, shot, taken, or killed :—Wild duck, pied stilt plover, wild geese, dotterill, pigeons, teal, black stilt plover, curlew quail. The Australian Telegraph Comference has been postponed until the 9th May.

A man named John Lodder is supposed to have shot himself at Port LGvy near Lyttelton. Tho Christchurch players have secured the best position in the match against Dunedin.

At Tiinaru a man named William Taylor Baker, who had been drinking heavily, committed suicide by hanging on Saturday

night. The Italian Opera Concert Company will open at the Oddfellows' Hall, Wellington, this evening. We learn that typhoid lever of a malignant type has besn prevalent in tho neighbourhood of Newmarket for some time past, where the land is low and marshy. Within a very limited radius there have been three deaths from this disease within about as many months.

, On his arrival at Blenheim Sir George Grey was presented with an address, aud in reply expressed the intention of the Government to extend the railway into the town. After transacting official busi ness, he addressed a public meeting at 8 o'clock. He referred to his own share in the early settlement of the district, and went ou to speak of the policy of the Government iv connection with the Land Fund, Land Act, representation, taxatiou, and the franchise. He stated that it was the intention of the Government to class the land for the purpose of taxation : 1, bad ; 2, tolerable ; 3, good—the tax to be an acreage tax. It would be necessary to frame a new land law, hedged round with restrictions to prevent gridironing and other similar evils. On the motion of Mr J. Ward, seconded by Mr G. Henderson, a vote of confidence was carried amidst loud applause. Sir George Grey left for Wellington. We leai n that a large number of tickets have been sold for the Free Templars' eutertainment this evening in the Lorne street Hall. The proceedings will be of a very interesting character, consisting of comic and sentimental melodies, sober speech recitations, and what Sam thinks upon things in general. The concert will begin at eight o'clock, and dancing com mences at half-past nine. Fun, merriment, and good order will characterise the pro ceedings throughout. The Orpheus String Band will perform several new pieces of music.

The anniversary sermons in the Pitt-street Wesleyan Church were weU attended yester day. The morning service was conducted by Rev. R. Taylor, of the United Free Methodist Church, and that of the evening by Rev. D. W. Runciman, Presbyterian minister of Ponsonby. An inteiesting address was delivered to the young people iv the afternoon by Rev. D. Dutton, which was listened to with much attention. Tho choir and school assisted in singing a number of suitable hymns. The day's collections amounted to £26 5s 3d.

The cricket match between Bombay and Epsom was concluded on Saturday, Epsom scoring a total of 86 in the first innings, and 56 in the second, with 6 wickets to go down. Bombay scored 71 in the first innings. On the side of Epsom, Messrs Mears and Marsden were the top scorers with 24 and 21 respectively; while amongst the Bombayians, Mr D. Sheffield added 21, andW. Evans 13.

Mr Michael McElroy, who met with an accident at Waiuku by a fall from his horse on the 15th inst., died in the hospital oh Thursday evening. Mr McElroy was a man in good circumstances, and the owner of a farm at Pukekohe. On arriving at the hospital, every attention that medical skill could devise was given, but every effort to restore him to consciousness failed. Death, it is conjectured, resulted from injury of the spine or concussion of the brain. The deceased was a married man, but his wife was away at the time of the accident. It is reported that Captain Speedy wiU be appointed on the staff of Lord Napier, of Magdala. ._..,, During the six days Cooper and Bailey s circus was in Wellington, Messrs Woods, Crosbie and Co., butchers, supplied 1334 lbs of beef, and 239 lbs of fish. The " Now Zealand Times " of the 17th sll y S - : — " The Hon. Mr Sheehan is expected on Friday. {All the Ministers will be here in a few days, and it is probable that they will remain until the session, and will soon be busily engaged in preparing the more important Bills embodying their policy. The will doubtless include a Representation Bill, Native Land. Bill, and a Land Tax Bill.

NEW SHEEP ACT.

THE Napier Telegraph says the Govern ment has circulated a Bill entitled "an Act to provide for tho Eradication of Scab in Sheep :"—and which it is intended to make law during next session. Clause 8 provides that " The Governor, by proclama tion in the " Gazette," may from time to time establish and define such, and so many districts, as he shall think fit to be districts under this Act, and to part the same into subdivisions. lo each such district and subdivisions, there shall., in the proclama tion defining it, be attached such name as the Governor shallfthink lit, and by which name it shall be thereafter known. Every such district or subdivision may, from time to time, in like manner bo altered or con slituted anew, in such manner, as the Governor may think fit." Runs on the borders of different districts may be in cluded in one or other of the adjoining districts, as may be decided by the Gov ernor. The Governor will have the ap pointment and removal of Inspectors and Sub-Inspectors. "If any Inspector of Sheep to be appointed, as hereinbefore pro vided, shall wilfully make any false report, or deliver any false certificate as to the con dition of any sheep examined by him, he shall be liable to a penalty of not less than £20, nor exceeding £100, orto beimprisoned for any term not exceeding six calendar months. If any Inspector of Sheep shall, under color of his office or employment, exact or accept any fee or reward whatso ever, other than his authorised salary _ or allowance, hi 3 office shall, on his conviction of such offence, become ipso facto vacant, and lie shall be liable to a penalty of £50." Returns of sheep owned will have to be fur nished annually in the mouth of April, the penalty for neglect being £20. The provisions for rating are as follows—"The Chief In spector shall, in the month of June in every year, transmit to the Colonial Treasurer a statement compiled from the returns fur nished, in pursuance of the preceding sec tion, of the whole number of sheep shorn within the district, and the Colonial Treasurer shall thereupon strike a rate to be paid for every sheep, of sufficient amount to pay the whole expenses of the department of the Inspector of Sheep for the then current financial year, and shall cause notice of such rate having been struck, to be given in the Gazette. In determining the amount of the rate to be struck, the Colonial Treasurer shall deduct from the expenses aforesaid, the amount of any fine 3 and penalties paid to the consoli dated fund in respect of disease in sheep, under authority of " The Financial Arrange ments Act, 1876," during the then preceding financial year."

ST. PATRICK CATHEDRAL.

The holy week offices at the Cathedral ■were carried out with great solemnity. The Rev. J. Dwyer preached the Good Friday sermon, which wrs impressive and eloquent. The very Rev. H. J. Fynes, V.G., presided at the office of Tetubra. On yesterday a high mass took place at 11 o'clock, Rev. Father Walter McDonald, celebrant, Father Dwyer, deacon, and Father Grange, sub desm.n. The church was perfectly crowded during all the services yesterday, as weU as at the offices of Holy Week. The choir, under the able direction of Miss Shanaghan, gave a really musical treat from the manner iv which they executed the various parts of the mass. The decorations of the altar and sanctuary were most tastefully carried out by the Sisters of Mercy, and appeared to have caUed forth general commendation from all who attended the church.

Auckland Racing Club.

AUTUMN MEETING, 1878,

Patron: His Excellency the Marquisof Normanby, K.C.B. President : Vice-President : Mr J. Diiworth. I Mr A. Bucliland. Mr W. I. Taylor Mr Sam. Morrin Mr Rich. J. Taylor Mr Wm. McLaughlin Mr D. Hean Mr Thomas Morrin Captain Walmsley, M> Joseph Banks Mr James Russell. Judge: Starter: Mr Robert Graham | Mr Robt. Wynyard Clerk of the Scales : Clerk of the Course : Mr W. J. Marks | Mr Sam. Morrin. HANDICAPPER3 : Messrs Banks and Marks. Secretar- : Wm. Percival.

We seldom remember an Autumn Meeting of the Auckland Racing Club having created more interest or speculation than the present anniversary. Ever since the weights for the principal handicaps were declared, the sole topic of conversation in sporting circles has seemed to bo the fitness or non-fitness of this, that, or the other equine celebrity to win " the Easter" or "Steeple." From time to time, too, there has been a good deal of quiet betting, which increased during last week, and culminated on Saturday in really brisk wagering. For an hour or two, indeed, that home for speculators, the Occidental Hotel, was more like a small Tattersall's subscription room than anything ehe. So far as we could gather, Hippocam pus was iv great favour for the Easter Handicap, whilst Gazelle was frequently enquired for in conjunction with the Hurdle Race. Don Juan was high in favour for the Steeplechase.

To-day's Racing.

(PER "STAR" CARRIER PIGEON.)

Ellerslie, 12.30 p.m.

At a comparatively early hour this morn ing our representative set off for the course, which, by the way, is in excellent condi tion : being neither too hard nor too soft, but really good going. Having plenty of time on our hands we have had ample leisure to survey and reflect upon the mani fold features, peculiarities, and curiosities of Ellerslie Racecourse, which, however, we will not recapitulate at any great length, as they must be tolerably familiar to resi dents of Auckland by now. Suffice it to say that the chevaliers of speculation have assembled in mighty force, and are as eloquent as usual in proclaiming them selves entirely disinterested and longing to disemburso money for the benefit of the public. It must, we should imagine, grieve them bitterly to see those piles of silver increasing so fast, and also to watch the somewhat sour faces with which speculators retire after "having a try." The Giand Stand is now filling fast, and there is a fair sprinkling of vehicles at the rails. The attendance promises to be entirely satisfactory. As soon as the Ring meets we shall endeavour to coHect some betting quotations.

12.30 a.m. During the morning the following prices have been taken :—

Easter Handicap.—6 to 4 against Hippo campus (offered) ; 2 to 1 against Elsa (taken); sto 2 against The Worm ; 4to 1 against anything else.

Hurdle Race.—6 to 4on the field^** Steeplechase.—2 to 1 agaiast P_rf„-, 2 to 1 against Don Juan : 3to 1 «^? e« Butcher Boy. * a^nat ». The first horse to make his appear on the scene was the rather oddly « cc Late-in-the-Eield, a likely lookin* ed who is tho feather weight i_* D?£> first raco. His owner was for . c time unable to find a rider k c thanks to the courtesy of Mr Walt young Mulgrove was able to a<W «?' engagement. **■. XQe

1 Wi The acceptances for the Tradem?*' > Handicap were : Pungawerewere T 8 Walton, May Moon, Gainsbto'' nT ak Mab, and Late in the Field. Izaak at once made the favourite at even mon Goinsbro', a rather roan geldinc hP next in demand at 2to 1. Puncfuaiß one o clock the bell rang, and Mr Morri commenced to clear the course " Th start, however, was not managed «f a quarter of an hour afterward RCX AT ONE O'CLOCK. UerWardß The Tradesman's Handicap of 50 nomination 1 so v. Acceptance (at Dosti9_T s' Distance 1 raile. v yost) * sovb. Mr Walters' br h Isaak Walton syrs Rut Bik (French) . ' <uo Mr Kelly's m g Gainsbro', aged, fat Tib (Rv<»_\ _ Mr McGee's b m May Aloon, 6yrs, Bst (McGe. I Mr Perkin's bm Pungawere, syrs, Ost uee ' 3 Mr Leonard's ns gr g The Worm, 6vra"V ß t rik S Mr Waiters' eh f Venus Transit, 3yrsf Vatsn? S Mr Kirkwood's eh g Tui, 6yr., 6.t fib' b S Mr Buckland. blk f Queen Mab.. " "■ » Mr Perkin'a be Xantippe, 3yrs, 7st " " 9 ilr A.^Buckland's blk f Queen Mab| _y_y ° Mr C. Brindle's bf Late in the' Field. 3vrs " Gst 71b.. .. .. .. .. ' *w» Won by a length. Time : 1 mm. 43 'LP Also ran : Pungawerewere (Pvowlandsf Queen Mab (T. Taylor), Late in the FioM (Mulgrave). xiew

Betting : Even on Izaak Walton, 2 to I against Gainsbro', 2 to 1 against May Moon 3 to 5 to 1 the others. '

The start was a very bad one, Gainsbro being the chief sufferer. Isaac took the lead almost at once, and kept it throughout but Gainsbro' creeping up, made an excellent race of it. The general feeling seems to be that Gainsbro' would have won if the start had been a good one. The time is excellent. Rum at Two O'clock. Hukdle Race (Handicap), of .Osovs., -with, sweep of 2 soys. each. Distance, 21 __i_v over nine flights hurdies. ' Mr Thorpe's b g VVhitefoot, aged, list 21bs (Thorpe) I Mr McGee's b.m Perfume, aged, list 71b (Bond) 2 Mr Brewci's b g Gazelle, aged, 10»tI01b (Kraft) a Mr Kirkwood's eh g Loafer, aged, lOst 31b n Mr Rutherford' 3eh g Sportsman, aged, lOst" n Mr Kirkwood's eh g Tui, 6yrs, lost .. X Mr Edward's be The Baron, 3yra, Bst ..' j

Time : smin. 54sec. Also ran : Sportsman, 101b extra (Wilson) Tui (Hodson), and The Baron, 191b extra.' Betting : 6 to 4 against Whitefoot, Per fume, and Gazelle, 5 aud 10 to 1 any other. A splendid race. Perfume and Whits", foot came in alone, the latter winning by half a length. A protest has been entered against Perfume, and is now being con isdered.

Run at 3 O'clock. E_steij Hantmcap, of 100 soys., with a sweep of 3 soys. each added. Distance, 2 miles. Mr McGee's Elsa, 7st 101b (McGee, jun.) .. 1 Mr Edgar's The Don, aged, 7st (Tom Taylor) '2 Mr Leonard The Worm, _7st 111b (Bremmer) 3 Hippocampus, Magician, and Xantippe also ran.

Betting 6 to 4 on Hippocampus, 3 to 1 against Elsa and the Worm, 5 to 1 against Magician and the Don, 10 to 1 against Xan.ippe. After a false start in which Elsa was with difficulty pulled up, they got off fairly well, Magician and Elsa leading. Hippocampus, broke down coming round the course the first time ; Elga throughout increasing the distance between herself and the others. As the race progressed The Don challenged her as they near the stand, but failed to get up, and the grey mare won gallantly by three lengths, only about a head separating second and third. Time, 3 46£ sec.

Novel Handicap. Novel Handicap, of 50 soys.. with a sweep of 1 soy. added. Winner to be sold by auction. Eight are coloured for this event. McGee's Falcon (J. McGee) ... I Quinlan's Barney (Taylor^ '.^ ... 2 Kavenagh's Belle of the Isles ... 3 Falcon had a slight lead throughout the race, winning by a length. Indian Warrior was quite out of the race. The winner was sold for £35 10s., the purchaser being Mr. Doyle. Run at _.30 O'clock p.m. Publican's Purse, of 50 soys., witn a sweep of 1 soy. each. Distance, | mile. EXCURCIONS. The weather to-day, was extremely favourable for the usual holiday aquatio excursions, there was scarcely a breath .of wind. From an early hour in the morning the Harbour was dotted with small craft of all sizes and descriptions. The following -were the principal excursions during the day:— PITT STREET SUNDAY SCHOOL. About 150 of the teachers elder scholars and friends, of the Pitt-street Wesleyan Church, left per p.s. Enterprise at 10 ---o'clock, for the Tamaki, where they intend ed to pass a pleasant day. NORTH SHORE. This pleasant holiday re.ort was well patronised during the day, and the North Shore Ferry Company's steamers made extra trips during the day. SCOTTISH BAND PICNIC. The Scottish Baud Picnic took place to day at Woodside, and passed off very successfully. The party was conveyed to the other side by the North Shore Ferry Company's steamers. The party comprised a number of young ladies, and the usual games, such as French tig, kiss in the ring, jolly miller, were indulged in. THE S.S. ARGYLE left for Coromandel at 5 this morning, for the purpose of conveying visitors to- Messrs Cooper and Bailey's circus. She is to return about 5 this afternoon. . DEPARTURE OF THE GOVEENOB FOR BAY OF ISLANDS. His Excellency tho Governor, accom panied by the Hon. J. Fisher, proceeded to the Bay of Islands to-day, for the purpose of visiting the natives iv that district.

BISHOP SELWYN.

(To the Editor of the Stab.) _gj Sir,—lt would be unkind to suppose that your correspondent in your last issue "'A Cn_cco man" begrudged good Bishop Selwynhislaureis, or that he intentionally wished to tarnish sum a well-won reputation by imputing wll¥.'; many earnest Christians minds is a very snooKM* thing indeed, namely, " Ritualistic prochvrtiea and "the Ritualistic element apparent. *°\ the benefit of himself and all who might w prejudiced by his remarks, I can mof.fc empnj"^ cally declare that the late Bishop mverwasi » Ritualist, and in no way belonged to the pa™ known by that name in the Church of f»_WJSi He was known in England as a devoted am worker among the masses, had a large nea, towards mankind in every position otme,n the rare boldness to tread off the beaten tw* for the love of Christ, and had a firm faith uw£ the form of Christianity which he taugbt w«» the most suitable to the wants of man.*"* beyond failure because of Divine origin. * . ■' few colonial prelates have risen above mew crity and as far as "A Churchman »W» cerned. he should be only too glad to pass v hia faults if he had any, and be contentea » recognise "the many undoubted exceueu for which the Bishop has been held in aaniu tion " by all sections of the Christian comm°j" w in New Zealand and in England.-Yours, «*» Nisi.

WHAT'S THE GOOD.

To the Editor of the EVENING STAR Sir,—An economical old croakeryri**J the " Herald " this morning to this etteci- Shall Aye spend £1,500 or £2,000 to see .a* animals from all climes ? I answer By means ''yes." Thousands of children.^ been benefited by this exhibition to* real live animals, that they have only flfflU seen in picture p001... I shall be °W& happy to send my children, although J• , ill afford it, and feel proud to comgjgL the enterprising proprietors for """3-* such an immense show to so small a cou ■ Besides, when it is taken into considera that the proprietors have to P"™ 88; " eD , months' supply of fodder for about JSUS 60 horses, and as roanylive anunab«| the ship present in our port, *°S Br^| \ m t their daily expenses, they Will• expj» double the amount in our city tnai can take in at the doors.-Yours, etc.,, Old Citizen.

EY ENI\G STAR, MONDAY, APHIL 22, 1878



/~\UR BUSINESS PREMISES in Queen-street will be CLOSED TO MORROW (Tuesday), the 24th April. |" COSGRAVE & ri o. WANTED, Several GOOD SALESMEN. "TUTUMN AND WINTER, 1878 Tho 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. (Is. IN THE £), ALLOWED ON ALL CASH PUR CHASES OF 20s. and UPWARDS. JRI/SHBItOOK AND ORIDGMAN, DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, Sec, JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel), UPPER QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. IffEW ZEA L A N-D HOUSE. During the Winter Months, this Establish ment will be CLOSED at 5.30 p.m. (Saturdays excepted), commencing on MONDAY, the 15th April. W. RATTRAY, DRAPER AND SILK MERCER, ■^EW yffiALAND TTOUSK, 66, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND.



F^R APERY! TT|R APERY. csr NEW SEASON GOODS H SOMEUFIELD AND LECK In taking this opportunity to address their numerous friends and the general public, desire to express thanks for liberal patronage, and beg to introduce to their notice a very Superior Selection of Goods ex Chase, Fontenaye, and Chili, NOW OPENING, comprising Blankets, Flannels, Calicos, Shirting., Sheetings, Tick ings, Winceys, Satin Cloths, All Wool Serges, Hosiery, &c , AU Wool Shawls, &c. Men's and Boys' Clothing. Moleskins, Corduroys, Tweeds, Sea. This Large and Well-aaaorted Stock, having been Purchased for Cash in the over-stocked English Markets, is Now Offered for Sale at Prices Lower than Ever IIKARa- OF IN" AUCKLAND. Inspection Invited. _ar VERY SPECIAL LINE. HEAVY Hi FAMILY BLANKETS, at 17s 6d. Country Orders will have special attention. Hawkers Supplied at Wholesal. Prices. SOMERFIELD & LECK, QU KEN-STREET, Auckland. A MAGNIFICENT STO CI NE W AUTUMN"AND WINTER! DRESS MATE R I A L S Just Opened. TT A .0.0 /VrKINS INVITES ATTENTION TO HIS STOCK OF New Dress Materials, Ladies Jackets, Ulsters, Black and Coloured Silks. Velvets, Velve teens, &c, suitable for the coming Season. Now on View. Splen did Colours in New Silk Rep 3, Wool Reps, 'Wool Poplir.ettes, Satin Cloths, Wool Serges, Twilled Carmelites, Estamano Serges, French .Merino.', Winsoys, and Fancy Dress Goods. All splendid value. All the new shades pro curable in Stock. The selection this season is the largest and best ever shewn in the city. Good quality Black Silk at 3s lid per yard. All the new shades in "Coloured Silks. Also Good Che p Blankets. Quilts, Sheetings, Table Linen, Flannels, Calicos, and Manchester Goods. IN THE CLOTHING DEPA. R T MjE N T New Tweed Suits, Coats, Trow sers and Votta suitable for all classes. A large Stock of Boy's and Youth's Tweed Suits, In our own make and imported. An immense stock of New Tweeds in Bannockburn, Mosgiel, Scotch, West of England, &c. Tailors can select from the largest stock in Auckland at Wholesale Prices. Cheap Tweeds suitable for Boy's wear. Good Quality Guaranteed, and Prices Lowest in Auckland foe All Descriptions of Drapery and Clothing. __r 11. A T X I N S. tes (JKAND QFF E R BY TIIE AMERICAN NOVELTY COMPANY. Tho following articles will be sent by Mail to any part of New Zealand on receipt of £1 :— 1 Brook's Glass Cutter, Tin Opener, Knife and Scissors Sharpener H 1 Banaza Fruit and Vegetable, Pairing, Slicing, and Coring Knife 1/6 1 Champion Nutmeg Gruter. Save your fingers 1/6 1 Dish-washing and Toasting Tong .. ..2/ 1 Smoker's Pet. Meerschaum pipe eclipsed 1/ 1 Folding Lamp Shade (Patent) 1/6 1 Indelible Tablet for Marking Linen .. 2/ 1 Little Giant Tack Hammer, drives, draws, and sets 1/6 1 Little Harry's Night Lamp 1/6 1 Magic Cork Puller, Chimney Cleaner, &c. 1/ 1 Oriental Silver Polish. Great success .. 1/ 1 Pattern Copying and Tracing Wheel .. 1/6 1 Pearl Cement. Mends everything. Save the pieces 2/ 1 Puzzle Key Ring 1/ 1 Shine-Shine Starch Polish and Chinese Washing Blue V 1 Slate Pencil Sharpener and Cioaner .. /6 1 Good Templar Pen, with .-pint of ink .. /6 Total 25/ Discount of! 5/ Amount £1 r ADIES AND GENTLEMEN about to JL- FURNISH are reminded that ONE OF THE LARGEST STOCKS IN THE COLONY OF FURNITURE CARPETS FLOORCLOTHS BEDDING, Sec, Sec, Sec Is on Sals at T. Ss B. Oooke"a F URNISIUKG WAR E HOUSE 67, QUBEN-STBEET. Industry of All _Nations AT THE CITY HALL ARCADE. Light and graceful Bent Wood Furniture, Settees, Rocking, Arm and Side Chairs, Children's Chairs, from AUSTRIA. Beautifully Carved WALNUT DRAWING ROOM SUITES, direct from the Manufacturers in ITALY. Exquisitely Painted FLOWER VASES, various sizes, from BELGIUM. Superior TOILETWARE, TOILET TABLE SETS, of medioeval and modern designs, from ENGLAND. TEXTILE FABRICS in Silk and Wool, soft rich, and beautiful for Furniture and Curtains. SATINE CRETONNES, superior to anything imported, having Satin Finish, suitable for Drawing-rooms, from FRANCE.. The Latest Designs, New Colours, and Very Handsome BRUSSELS CARPETS, and a largo lot of Cheap and Good TAPESTRY Just Opened. Articles of Use and Beauty, to any design and price, from our own FURNITURE MANUFACTORY in AUCKLAND. Ladies and Gentlemen Furnishing, are invited to inspect the S'JTOCK of Holloway, G-ariiols Ss Oraawell, City Hall Arcade, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. MANUKAU LOYAL ORANGE LODGE. No. 20. Tho Brethren of the |«S|br^{M above will celebrate Jj|sfii|fel^? their Anniversary by a (m YwlP^^l/ *fc on tho 6ttl MAY ' t0 be r -_. held in the Masonic Hall, Onehunga. ',1 ~-^£S.__^ Dancing to commence at 8.30 p.m. Single Tickets, 55.; Double, 7s. 6d. Tickets can be had from the Committee: Bros. Cox, Bell, Morris, and Robinson; and from several of tho brethren in Auckland. Refreshments provided. Band in attendance. fflg ' GEO. J. BELL, Hon. See.



A._ Xjinabury & Co ] DRESSMAKERS and MILLINERS. NEW DRESS MATERIALS. A Large Assortment of New Dress Goods for the present Season, in every fashionable shade, Just Opened up at A. LINABURY & CO.'S. NEW WINTER COSTUMES, NEW MANTLES, NEW ULSTERS, NEW MILLINI.RY, NEW HATS A Large Assortment of Pari3 Trimmed Hats and Bonnets Just Opened up. Also, Hosiery, Silk Ti°s, Umbrellas, CollarsandCnft., Gloves, Chilare s Mantles and Jackets. Also, A LARGE STOCK OF NOVELTIES, Which are Cheap, and will have quick sale. -S" Look in at ~«a A. LINABURY &'CO. 'S, 201 &206, quel.n-street, Auckland.