SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER-]™nio Arrow nMorning. 2.52 SUN SET.—This Evening, 7.17 SUN RISE.—To-morrow Morning. 5.3 MOONS AGE.—Full Moon,; 19th, H. 09 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

Wanaka, s.s., McGillivray, from xauranga auu

Taranaki s. .', from the South (at Onehunga.) Hauraki, p.s.. from Waitara (at Onehunga.)

DEPARTURES.

IMPORTS,

Per s.s. Wanaka, from Southern ports: 5 c°ses 1 trunk, 6 boxes pipes, 1 case bacon, 75 sacks'mai „'_ packages tea, 2 boxes and 8 cases tobacco, 21 casks beef, IS packages, 1 box. 80 hides, Ireland Brothers. Per Taranaki, from the South: — i boxes, 2 bal-s, 94 cases, 2 pair wheels, 2 pa-cils. 70 sheeps, 1 package.—Henderson and Maci'arlane agents. ><FPer barque, Abbey Holme, from London: ---2519 cases. 36 hhds., 157 drums, 369 casks, 194 barrels. 593 kegs, 110 qr. casks, 27 crates, 30 tanks, 72.iars, 50 half-chests, 51 bales. 912 pack ages, 142 boxes, 100 bags, 6 trunks, 10 baskets, 2 "tierces, 2 boilers. 8 sheets iron, 110 pundies wire, 2 sheets lead, 50 coils, 450 bars, 186 nsh plates and 401 iron rails. 9 firkins, 3 cases octaves. 14 pots, 296 ovens, 352 covers. 4 cases. 4 crates, R. Arthur. _-,»_• 82 casks. 3 cases, 21 kegs, Ireland Brothers. Por Wanaka: 10 cases tobacco.—ft. Sea. Isaacs, Importers. . ,„„„„_ Per Abbey Holme:—l 2 cases looking glasses, 1 do. mu-ical instruments, 3 do. walking sticks. 3 do. fancy goods. 4 do. toys, 2 do. vases, 8 pianos, 48 crates bottles. 1 steam engine. 2 cases hardware. 10 crates earthenware, 32 cases window glass, 60 do. oilmen's stores, 1 do.jewel lery, 50 do. whiskey, 1 do. fishing lines, 1 do. hooks, 3 do. linoleum, 35 do. sardines, oO barrels wire nails, 69 kegs Kwbanks do.. 1 case tinfoil, 2 do. shop twine, 1 do. Lockwood cutlery, 40 do. Coleman's white starch, 10 ca>ks split peas 2 hales brown paper, 2 cases ladies side saddles, 1 do. girths. 1 do. bridles, 1 do. furniture, 2 do. framas, 4 do. American organs, 1 do. lace and muslin curtains, < do. billiard materials, 1 do. nickle silver goods, 2 do. sewing machines, 4 do. Hodg's class ware, 1 do. English concertinas, 2 tons best white lead in wood, 1 do. zinc paints, 1 do. silk dust coats—E. and H. Isaacs, lmpor -2 bale 3 carpets. Winks and Hall, importers. _

The s.s. Wanaka is to leave for Russell this evening at 5 o'clock. The s,s. Taranaki is advertised to leave for Southern Ports at.l p.m. to-morrow. rhe cargo on board the Loch Fleet to be landed at this port is as follows:—S00 sacks wheat. 419 sacks flour, 150 sacks ponard, 000 sacks flour. TX , Consignees per barque, Abbey Holme, are requested by advertisement to pass entries, and obtain delivery orders forthwith. The sight entry will be parsed on Wednesday. The s.s. Taranaki, 327 tons. Captain Malcolm, arrived at Onehunga at 6.30 this morning: left Duuedin 1.15 p.m., 9th, arrived at Lyttehon a.m, 10th; left at 6.45 p.m., arrived at Welling ton at noon. 11th; left at 11.30 p.m., 12th, arrived at Picton at 5 a.m.; left at 6.30 a.m., an ived at Nelson at 2.30 p.m.; left at 1.45 a.m., 13th, arrived at Taranaki at 2 p.m.; left at 6 a.m., arriving as above. Passengers:—Saloon: MiS3 Pitts; Mesdames Irwin, Croker and family, Levy and child. O'Sullivan, Tomhnson; Mes.rs Martin, Clarke, Marks, Gardiner, Welcome, C-ddin, Goldwater, Crocker, Levy, Giorga, Rosuati, Thatcher, Keith, Soeirs, Foster, Mc-Murdo (2), Marin, Phillips, Dacre, Motion, Tomlinson, Denshire, and Dr Forbes. We are indebted to Mr C.J. Eimiston for files, report. The s.s. Wanaka arrived from Tauranga and the South last night. Passengers :—Saloon : From Dunedin—Mrs Gray and 7 children, Messrs Bathgate, Gitern, Robinson, Scott, Gray. From lyttelton—Mrs Sheath, Messrs Overton, Lally. "Tom Wellington—Mr Gessel, Siraor Noblli. From Napier—Misses Elliott. Symonds, Harris (2), Mease, Messrs Dyer, Neale, Jerrame, Kinsoll, Rev Mr Marshal). From Gisborne— Mrs and Miss Crawford, Mrs and Miss Har greaves, Master Browne. From Tauranga— Mrs Lee, Mrs Griffiths, Mas Edgcumb. Hall, Brown. Six in steerage.—Henderson and Macfarlane, agents. ivir Light, of Napier- one of the owners of the steamer Mohaka, built a few months ago by Messrs Holmes and Mewburn as a coasting steamer, to trade between Napier, Wau-oa, and Mohaka. writes up to Mr McCoskne, com plimenting him upon the satisfactory working of the machinery, which was constructed by that gentleman. Mr Light says the vessel steams nine knots with ease, a great speed for so small a boat. She is now in regular running order, and gives her owners and passengers great satisfaction. _ . Messrs McCallum and McQuarrie, of Mechanics* Bay, have just laid the keel of a. topsail schooner, which will register about I_o tons. Her dimensions are to be as follows :— Length of keel 86ft.. breadth of beam 22ft., depth of hold 10ft. 6in. From an inspection of the mode], we are enabled to make a pretty safe prediction that this vessel will echpse all that this well-known firm have turned out up to the present time. The proportions are calculated to embody both speed and buoyancy, the ends being fine and gracefully tapered, and the floor full with a moderate rise. A nice flowing sheer imparts elegance to the whole: The vessel Is not built with any definite destination, but wdl probably be disposed of during construction. The firm are procuring the timbers from Cabbage Bay, and the planking from the Hot Springs. The samples of each which have arrived are of splendid quality, and should the rest resemble them, the craft is likely to be of extra quality so far as material is concerned. The new, steam-tug lately brought up to town from Mangawai, where it was built by Mr Melnness as a tow-boat for the Wairoa and Kaipara, was brought alongside the North Shore Ferry Cos. T. this morning to receive her boiler. This has been constructed by Mr Hawkes wood, and is of a most substantial character, being 10ft. long by sft. 6in. wide. It weighs i tons, but the large crane took J* ?P a?. d lowered it in its place with ease. This little steamer will make a most nseful craft m the hue for which she is intended. She is about 30 tons register, and measures 75ft. in length over all. He - engines will be of a very powerful character, and are calculated to run her at a high rate ot speed. She rejoices in the name of Tangihua, and is owned by Mr Dargaville and Captain Seymour. The latter gentleman is to take command.

COMMERCIAL. Mr R. C. Greenwood sold to-day by auction at the shop of Mr T- B. Hannaford, who is re linquishing business, a large stock of groceries, provisions confectionery, fruit, glass capes, counters, scales and weights, glass fittings, &c. There was a good attendance, and fare prices were obtained. ■_ The Arch Hill toll-gate was leased byauction to-day, at Messrs B. Tonksand Co.'s mart, to Mr Sloane, for six months at £3 per month. The family residence in Symonds-street was with- At Messrs Cochrane's sale to-day, the shares in the Long Tunnel Goldmining Company were withdrawn. ,

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

_*_-._—-- _rv_ix__.'t?_.-_-, _-_,_..———.-■-*■■_-. Mails will Closk as Undwr- For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m. and to morrow at 9.30 a.m. 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, per Durham, on Wedneday next, at 11.30 a.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, Wangaroa, and Mon gonui, per lona, this day, at i p.m. For Russell and Kawakawa, per Wanaka, this day, at 4 p.m. For Hokianga, Per Geelong, to-morrow, at 10 a.m For Waiwera. K&wau, Omaha, and Matakana, per Annie Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Taranaki, Southern Provinces, and Aus tralian Colonies, per Taranaki, to-morrow, at 2.45 p.m. For. money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 1.50 p.m. Late letters for Southern Provinces and Melbourne, till 3 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Argyie, to-morrow, at 4 p.m. For Norfolk Island, per Waiwera, on Wednes day next, at 3 p.m. For Whitiangi. Tauranga and Opotiki, per Rowena, on Wednesday next, at 4 p.m. For Tauranga, Gisborne, Napier, and Southern Provinces per Wanaka, on Thursday next, at 3 p.m. S. B, BISS, Chief Postmaster.

BIRTH.

ASHTON.—On the 13th instant, at her residence, Grafton Road, Mrs. Alfred Ashton of a son. TANNER.—On the sth instant, atDevonport, Mrs. B. Tanner of a son.

DEATHS.

ASHTON.—On the 13th instant, the infant son of Alfred and Ellen Ashton, Grafton Road. COPAS.—On the 14th January. 1878, at his parents' residence. Colling wood-street, Auck land, New Zealand, George Edwin Copas, infant child of George Copas, aged 3 weeks. The funeral will take place at 2.30 p.m. to morrow, 15th instant. Friends please accept this invitation.

NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Broomhall Settlement.—Mr Newrimu's letter is unavoidably held over till to morrow.

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

MONDAY, JANUARY 14, 1878.

Js« __jt_—ir that lacks, assktanc*. Sr „c -rang-"* needs resistance $5-.__ 6-me ia the distance. __KMh_«-o_-__* -e«_» <*»

Post-sessional speeches are usually dreary recapitulations of a thrice-told tale. A re presentative, if he has reason to believe that a majority of his constituents approve of his action during the session, feels con strained to .-me forward and tell them what he did, why he did it, and what he did not do. The chances are that, unless the speaker is specially popular, or circum stances give a more than ordinary interest to his confession, a small audience will listen patiently to what he has to say, and record a vote of thanks, or con fidence, as may be deemed prudent by the hon. member's friends. Where there are very urgent reasons why a member should meet his constituents, and render an account of the mal-admmis tration of his trust/the custom is more honoured by the breach than the observance, and the recusant member loftily proclaims that he was elected for five years as a repre sentative and not as a delegate. The majority •of these local conferences consequently are neither very amusing nor yet very in structive. Electors may, perhaps, be a good deal to blame for not making the annual meeting with their representative a real test of opinion with respect to his public acts, but there is some excuse for those who shrink from the infliction of a weary parliamentary review, long alter the excitement of the events haspassed away and their interest been worn threadbare. OccasionaUy, however, v few grains may be picked out of the post-sessional chati. Mr Reynolds, in his recent address at 1 ort Chalmers, threw, new light upon the constitution and action of that extraor dinary Middle Party, which filled such a remarkable rold last session, and was in the end so egregiously cheated out of its expected rewards. Mi- Reynolds describes this combination as supremely devoted to selfish scheming, playing off one party against the other in the hope of picking up the kernel. He states that one of the chief reasons for severing his connection with Major Atkinson's party was the knowledge that the ex-Premier had thrown himself into the hands of this little ring of conspirators, whose game during the closing weeks he was really playing. Although a consistent supporter 'of the Atkinson Government until its defeat, Mr Reynolds considered that he was fully justified in changing his position, on the ground that the former Ministry would never be re-instated, then places being reserved for the chief con spirators of the little coterie, whose motives he had strong reasons to suspect. Alluding to his action with respect to the land fund, Mr Reynolds declared that absorption, to meet interest upon loans for immigration and railways, and to pay for education, was inevitable. It is significant of the feeling in Otago that, contrary to expec tation, the policy pursued by members who voted for colonisation of the land fund has met with general approval, while Mr Murray, who opposed it, hardly escaped the censure of Ms constituents. Nor is it difficult to find an explanation in the awakening consciousness throughout New Zealand of a threatening danger to the colonial credit, as the inevitable conse quence ot the past seven years of un exampled extravagance.

Important later cable news received this afternoon shews that the Russians are averse to the conclusion of an armistice until they shaU have occupied Adrianople. Further disasteis have befallen the Turks, at Nissa, south-west of Widdin in Bulgaria, and 28,000 men and 1,092 guns are said to have fallen into the hands of the Russians at Antivaria. Probably the Router's tele gram which gives these number will be found to be exaggerated. The Russians are advancing south of the Balkans, Ihe civilian population has been ordered to leave Adrianople, and it is considered pro bable that the Turks will abandon that city, and take" refuge behind the Chek medges. The most important item is that which announces a protest entered by Eng land against the conduct of Russia in de parting from her promise to negotiate direct with Turkey for an amistice without re ference to previous definite proposals for peace.

The election of a member of the City Council for the seat vacated by Mr Brett on his election as Mayor will take place to morrow. A close contest is expected be tween Mr J. Grey and Mr W. Buchanan, the two candidates.

Signor Nobile, well and favourably known in Auckland, arrived to-day in advance of the Royal Italian Opera Company, and is actively engaged in making arrangements for the" performances or the Company in Auckland. It will be seen by reference to a cable message received to-day, and published in this issne, that New Zealand four per cent debentures have risen in price to 105. In the share list of the "Home News" of November 15th these securities are quoted at 97_ to to 98J, so that the latest quotation indicates a very con siderable rise. This is satisfactory, as indicating the continued increased confi dence of English capitalists iv the resources of the country, and in the administration, notwithstanding the anticipated new loan of £2,500,000.

At a meeting of shareholders of the Palmerston Goldmining Company, held to-day in Mr Home's office, Shortland street, Mr Newman in the chair, the original resolution for winding up the com pany was confirmed. The meeting expressed approval of the proposal that the liquidator should accept the proposal of the Premier Goldmining Company to give 5,000 shares in exchange for the mining plant of the Company.

The following gentlemen are gazetted Justices of the Peace :—Frederick Lambert Prime, John Symth Fleming, Frederick Norton, and Andrew Dilworth.

" The annual picnic of the Holy Trinity Sunday-school, Otahuhu, i took place at Ellerslie on Thursday last. Nearly 90 children and teachers, accompanied by friends who swelled the number to more than a hundred, Avere conveyed by the early morning train to Ellerslie, Mr Macdonald having provided extra carri ges for their accommodation. At Eller ie they were joined by the children of St. Matthias' Sunday-school, Panmure. A few visitors came from Auckland and other places, and the whole party gave themselves up to a day of thorough amusement, varied only by a short interval at mid-day, when, under the cool shade of over-hanging trees, the children managed to stow away an incredible quantity of good things in the shape of plum pudding, sand wiches, &c. Dinner over, the children re turned with now vigour to their games, to the swings, and to the merry-go-round, which last sustained admirably the test of the additional weight placed upon it. Great praise is due to those in charge of the gardens, who shewed every attention to their visitors, and made excellent arrangements for their convenience. After partaking of a hearty tea the two parties started for their respective homes at about 7 o'clock, those from Otahuhu returning by a special train kindly laid on by Mr Macdonald.

This morning, Messrs W. and G. Win stone began the contract for reclaiming the space between the watermen's steps and the entrance to the new dock. The watermen's house has been removed to the other side of the wharf while the work is going ou.

The Soldene Opera Company opened in Dunedin to crowded houses, and the " Otago Daily Times" speaks m most eulogistic terms of their performance. Miss Little (Mrs Hilton) joined the Company in Australia. The N.Z. " Sun" says : ''The principal members of the company ghave performed together for the last six years under Mr Chizzola, who has expended, it seems, large sums on the wardrobe and ' get up" of thefcpieces, his wardrobe for 'eight of the operas being valued at £6,000. Miss Ada Ward has been playing to good houses at Christchurch as Rosolmd m " As you like it," as Lady Isabel in " East Lynne,"andin"Leah." The "Sun" speaks very highly of these performances. Johnny Hydes, Mi- Stoneham, and Jenny Nye, have been playing pantomime at Wellington. The Italian Opera Company have been very successful at Wellington, where the Rev. Charles Clark has recently concluded a big business. Thatcher, Levy's versatile agent, had a crowded benefit in Chnst-

church. In a New Zealand " Gazette" of Decem ber 29—Hamilton East and West are con stituted a borough.

Mr ernon xvooerts, of Waikato, is gazetted an interpreter under the 12th section of the "Native Lands Act," 1873. Intelligence has been received of the death of Mr Edward Wilson, one of the proprietors of the Melbourne " Argus and " Australasian," in London. A meeting of the members of the Fire Brigade was held on Saturday evening at the engine house, Albert-street, Mr Super intendent Hughes in the chair. The business of the meeting was to consider a torch-light procession through the streets of Auckland, concluding with a banquet. It was resolved to solicit donations from the Insuiance Companies in aid of the object in view, and a committee was appointed to make necessary arrangements. _ The annual church meeting of the parishioners of St. Paul's win be held to morrow (Tuesday) evening at half-past seven o'clock. The Carlton Accademy evening school, Hobson-street, will be commenced this evening at seven, under the immediate superintendence of Mr. C. B. Andrew, the head master. .

The committee meeting of the Auckland Amateur Athletic Club which was an nounced to take place this evening, is post poned at the request of several members until half-past four to-morrow afternoon. A cricket match was played in the Domain on Saturday between the Newton Excelsior and Victoria Cricket Clubs. The Newton Excelsior won easily, the scores being :—Excelsior : Ist innings, 23 ; 2nd innings, 73. Victoria : Ist innings, 28 ; 2nd innings, 53. A meeting of the subscribing members ot the Trade and Labour Council will be held in the Temperance Hall, to-morrow (Tues day), evening at eight o'clock, for the pur poses of receiving the annual report, balance sheet, adopting rules, and appointing a committee. . Mr Watkins, artist, has recently visited Puhoi, and obtained some very fine sketches of scenery and remarkable kauri trees. The alleged Municipal swindle at Wel lington is assuming grave aspects. It svas stated in a former telegram that £2,970 had been paid to a contractor by cheque, for alleged extras, but that it was found that the cheque was afterwards paid away in the purchase of property in which both the contractor and the Councillor were in terested. In tlie course of the inquiry into the matter Mr Blackett has given evidence that £1,000 of the extras was paid, not for an extra, but for part of the original con tract, and this he proved from the plans and specifications. The following gentlemen were sworn in as Justices of the Peace on Saturday last, before Mr Justice Gillies, viz. : Mr Andrew Dilworth,of Waitakerei; and Captain Cole beck, of Kaipara. . The firing of the membeis of the V letona Company, at the Pane Range on Saturday, terminated as follows .—Volunteer E. Cooper, 49 ; Volunteer Payne, 43 ; Volun teer Henderson, 43 ; Volunteer Alderton, 41 ; Volunteer I3owden, 41. Mr Rees, M.H.R., will address his City East constituents in the Mechanics' Institute at 8 o'clock this evening. We learn that the harbourmaster at Helensville has notified Mr Smith, contractor, that the earthwork embank ment on the line between Auckland aud Helensville is slipping into the river, and is likely to seriously impede the navi gation. „ , _ , C. F. Goldsbro Esq., M.D., and John Buchanan Esq., of Auckland, are gazetted trustees for the children of Ihaka Taka anini and Riria, under the " Maori Real Estate Management Act, 1867." The following are the acceptances for the Marlborough Cup :—Lara, Treason, Strong bow, Septimus, Doncaster, Orange, Light ning, Rata, Mama. Mr Moorhouse, M.H.R., in an address to his constituents at Motueka^said "a man on afarm at a pounda weekand his tucker was better off than a civil servant at £300 pei annum." And that "In Canterbury a man could go a day's, march and meet with nothing bigger than a tussock." The "" Post" says Sir George Grey has delayed his visit to Tawhiao in order to get through some pressing work. The price of gas in Wellington has been reduced to lis per 1000 ft.- Mr Fox has been down upon the licensed victuallers again. He caused the whole of them at Marton te be prosecuted for open ing their houses on New Years's night between 12 and 1 o'clock, although they took tno payment for the liquor they supplied. Mr Fox adjudicated upon the cases, and fined each defendant 40s and cos's.

The Levy Com pany arrived from the South this morning by the Taranaki. As there seems to be some doubt ot its personale, we may say that it consists of Levy himself, the greatest living instrumentalist, whose cor net solos have for years astonished and de lighted the world. Mrs J. Levy, a charm ing soprano, who has won golden opinions from the press of Australasia; Miss Pitts, a contralto of eminence from Melbourne; Signor Rosnati, well-known in connection with Mademoiselle De Murska; Madame Goddard, and Signor Giorza, the eminent composer, who accompanies the vocalist and the great cornet soloist, and plays a number of his own solos and transcriptions from other composers. Besides the company, there are Mr Richmond Thatcher, the well known agent; and Mr Keith, the treasurer, who piloted the Simonsen Opera Company round this colony. The firstconcert is given on Friday, and no doubt the successes of the South will be repeated here. A milkman at Ararat, Victoria, met with retributive justice. He went to a municipal reservoir in the grey dawn to water his milk, but upset the cans, and milked the water. Verdict "sarved him right.

Mr Andrew's evening school opens at 7 o'clock this evening. It is feared that the injuries inflicted on the European John Reilly, at Hokianga, will result in lock-jaw or mortification. A man in Australia lately bought an antiquated secretaire at auction. In repair ing it he discovered a secret drawer con taining forty sovereigns, a gold enamelled ring, a lot of securities for money, one of which a certificate for £524 19s 7d, 3 per cent, consols. There was also an old scrap of paper dated 1700, leaping to the belief that forty guineas had originally been placed there, but they had been taken out in modern times and replaced by the

sovereigns. In our report of Dr Somerville's address on Friday evening the rev. gentleman, through a printer's blunder, was made to say that he was sometimes inclined to com pare the word of God to a " prison". The word " prison" should have appeared " prism" Mr J. D. Clark writes with reference to the Rev. S. Edger's appearance as chairman at Mr Chanes Blight's lectures, and at the exhibitions of Mr Thomas Walker. The subject is a purely personal one—a matter of taste aud conscience—and hardly suited for discussion in newspaper columns.

The annual feast of the children of St. Mary's Sunday-school was held in the Domain on Friday last. The children were under the charge of Dr. Maunsell, Mrs John Kissling, Mr Dyer, Mr E. Robert shaw, and the teachers of the school. There were about 200 children present. The children were treated to a substantial luncheon, a variety of sports, and a good tea, before returning home at 5 o'clock. We notice that the children's treats in connec tion with the Anglican Churches have selected separate days for their festivals this year. A correspondent thinks it would be a much pleasanter sight if all the children of the several English Churches met together in the Domain on the same day A cricket match played in the Domain on Saturday between the Parnell and Union Cricket Clubs resulted in a victory for the latter. The following were the scores :— Union : Ist innings, 74; 2nd innings, 67. Parnell: Ist innings, 91 ; 2nd innings, 43. The best score for the Parnell side—l 9— was made by Stallworthy (captain), and for the Union 38, by W. George (captain.)

The time of the meeting of Ponsonby rate payers, to be held on 28th inst., should have been 7.30., instead of 4 p.m., as advertised in the " Herald" and Stae

Mr Charles Bright had a large atten dance last evening in the Choral Hall, to to hear his lecture on " Creation by Evolu tion and its relation to prayer." Mr Bright endeavoured to refute the old idea of the Almighty working six days, systematically and laboriously in the work of creation,' and then resting, like mortals, on the seventh day. He would rather believe that creation was by evolu tion and of natural growth. In regard to prayer, the lecturer quoted the opinions of men eminent in the field of science, to shew that prayer was impotent and un availing in procuring blessings; it was, however, he believed, a desire planted in man's nature by God himself, was natuial to the soul for some wise and beneficent purpose. Prayer was an aspiration, and had an enobling influence.. He condemned praying by rote, parrot-like, and set forms of prayer. The lecturer >vas listened to with attention, and applauded at the close of bis discourse.

The schooner Ruby brings 60 tons of coals from Russell.

Bather an unusual item appears in the manifest of the Vision, just arrived from the Marshall Group. This is " a lot of human hair." It would be.interesting to know how this hair has been obtained, and .whether from live or dead bodies. Perhaps, the former possessors have appeased the hunger of those who sold it Captain Hawkins. Some misapprehension appears to have arisen from a local in our Saturday even ing's issue, that persons paying rates _in arrear can exercise votes on the election to-morrow, whether they are on the roll or not. This is a mistake, our remarks apply to the new Valuation and various rolls that will be made from them. Persons who omitted to pay their rates last year in time are precluded from voting Avhile the present Burgess 801 lis in existence, that is, to May next. _ ,;'<kM__ Hl______

Wreck of tlie Auckland Schooner Nellie.

The Captain's Sibs Broke,

[BY TELEGRAPH.]

(From our Own Correspondent.)

TAURANGA, this day. The Nellie, schooner, bound from Port Cowper, ran on Astrolabe Reef last evening, and was greatly damaged, There was a smooth sea at the time. All hands were saved. She had a cargo of breadstuff's. The wreck now lies on the eastward shore of Mototi; Island. The master arrived in town in Mr Douglas' boat. His ribs are fractured. All valuables are saved.

The schooner Nellie belongs to Mr G. W Owen. She is 60 tons register, and was built at Mahurangi in 1876 by Mr John Darrach. She was second in the schooner race at our Regattalast year, and was third on the Ist instant in the Champion race at the Lyttelton Regatta. The Nellie is insured for £1000 in the New Zealand Office. She was bound from Lyttelton to this port. The following is a list of the cargo on board : —IOO sacks oats, 50 sacks malt, 200 sacks (200) flour, 160 bags (100) do., 48 do. (50) do., 18 cases hams and bacon.

THE WHARF TRAGEDY.

ADJOURNED INQUEST.

The adjourned inquest on the remains of the man fouud in the debris of the late fire on the wharf was held this afternoon, at the Freeman's Hotel, before Dr. Philson and a jury (Mr B. Sweete foreman. Sub-Inspector Pardy represented the police. Mr Hesketh appeared to watch the case for Mr Vare, and Mr Graham for the Insurance Companies. Dr. Goldsbro' deposed that he made a post mortem examination. The body was that of an adult man; pro bably of the European race. De ceased was burnt to death, and from the appearance of the lungs, he would say that he had been suffocated previously. From the appearance of the teeth, he believed that deceased was about 60 years of age. When witness saw the body, there was no vestige of clothes upon it. EdwardJHealey, a bootmaker employed by Mr Richards, deposed that on Satur day he found a dead, body in the debris. Two months previous to the fire he saw a quantity of goods removed from Vare's boarding-house. Henry Martin, Sergeant of the Water Police, deposed to the body being found lying on the joists of the ground floor, to wards the back, near the south-west comer of the building. It was face downwards. He believed the deceased was an old man known as William Lindsay, aged about 60. Deceased had been missing since the day of the fire, and had not been heard of since. Witness had traced him up to the night before the fire, when he slept at Mrs Vare's. •'. Mrs Vare deposed to giving abed to Lindsay for Is. The furniture and stock were insured for £200, and the house for £100. A sofa and chair were removed for her sick daughter. There was a fire in the kitchen stove when she left at 11.30 p.m, Lindsay had been drinking when he came to the house.

Sp" Mr Vare deposed that he had no light in his bedroom. Did not smoke. Had only one glass of beer during eight hours before the fire.

PRESENTATION TO CAPTAIN TATCHELL.

Messrs .Kohn Bros, exhibited in the window of their establishment to-day a very handsome and tastefully designed testimonial, which has been purchased by the passengers of the ship May Queen for presentation to Captain Tatchell. The tes timonial consists a of silver-plated revolving globe, on which is tastefully and correctly engraved a map of the world. The equatorial zone, the meridian lines, and the frame on which the globe stands, are of gilted-silver and chaste design. At the bottom there is a large'compass, sufficiently large to indicate correct bearings. The globe is hollow and opens on one side, so that it may be used as a biscuit box, or re ceptacle. Messrs Kohn Bros. will surmount this beautiful ornament with a flag of sterling silver, on which will be engraved, "Presented to Captain Tatchellj ship May Queen, by the passengers, January Ist, 1878." During the outward passage, Captain Tatchell and his officers endeared gthemselves to the pas sengers by their kindly courtesy and solici tude for their comfort and happiness. The captain did his utmost to lighten the tedium and monotony of a long sea voyage by providing innocent amusements, and in this he so succeeded as to win the

general esteem and gratitude of the pas sengers. We can ourselves bear abundant testimony to his kindly forethought and care, and we trust he may be long spared as an ornament to his profession.

CABLEGRAMS.

Latest War News.

(REUTEIt'S PRESS TELEGRAM.)

Russian Conditions of Armistice.

Fall of ftissa

Advance of Russian Troops

Civilians to Leave Adrianople

New Turkish Ministry.

LONDON, January 12. The Grand Duke Nicholas replied to Raouff Pasha that all the negociations must be direct with him, and that an armstice was impossible without a basis of peace, the conditions being first settled. Nissa, a fortified town, south-west of Widdin has capitulated. The Russian troops have arrived at Yene Saghra and Barod Jik—two positions south of the Balkans.

The civilian population have been ordered to leave Adrianople. A new Turkish Ministry has been formed. Hamed Pasha is appointed Grand Vizier, and SefFet Pasha Minister of Foreign Affairs.

LATER.

8,000 TURKS TAKEN AT NISSA-

28,000 Turks and 1,092 Chins Taken at Antivari.

LONDON, Saturday. The Russians took 8,000 prisoners and 90 guns at the surrender of Nissa. Antivari surrendered on Thursday with 28,000 men and 1091 guns. The town of Shipka is also captured. It is probable that Adrianople will be abandoned, and the Turks retreat on the lines at Tchekmedcha.

The Civil Government of Adrianople has been removed to Rodosto.

It is alleged that the Russian military authorities are averse to an armistice, the proposals having been made in view of the occupation of Adrianople and Gallipoli. England has protested against the non fulfilment of the promise that an order would be sent to the Russian Commander in-chief, to treat for an armistice without previous stipulations, with reference to peace conditions. The " Daily News " regards this as the beginning of an intrigue to involve England in the war.

Three Cabinet Councils have been held this week.

A change of Ministers in Greece is pro bable.

RISE IN NEW ZEALAND SECURI TIES.

THE GRAIN MARKETS.

LONDON, Saturday. New Zealand 4^ per cents are quoted at 105.

Wheat is quiet: Adelaide, 69 to 71. Flour, 47 to 49.

AUSTRALIAN CABLEGRAMS.

SYDNEY, Monday.

Ar rived.—Rotoru •

MONTENEGRINS DEFEATED.

ARMISTICE REFERRED TO ST,

PETERSBURG.

RUSSIANS COMPLETELY INVEST

EZEROUM.

[SPECIAL TO PRESS AGENCY]

LONDON, January 11. Sulieman Pasha has been recalled to Stamboul.

The Turks defeated the Montenegrins at Dhuzga. The Porte has notified to the Grand Duke Nicholas its desire for an armistice. The Grand Duke Nicholas replied that he would refer the question to St. Petersburg. Despatches from Asia state that the Russians have cut off the Turkish com munications between Erzeroum and Trebi zond.

FRANCE,

ANTICIPATED COUP D'ETAT.

LONDON, January 11.

The French Ministry have superseded several generals. 'This action, it is be lieved, has reference to an intended coup d' etat.

AUSTRALIAN TELEGRAM.

[PRESS AGENCY]

The Duplicate Cable.- Frocable

Reduction-

Telephone Experiments-

ITo Puritanical Sunday in Victoria-

The Wakatipu which left Sydney on the Sth arrived last night, but the news she brings is unusually meagre. MELBOURNE.

The Victorian Government has received a telegram from the Eastern Extension Tele graph Company in Adelaide, intimating their preparedness, on behalf of the chair man to arrange for a 'duplicate line, and that if the other colonies would join in the scheme tariff might be reduced to 6s or 7s per word. The race horse Pluto which ran in the champion race is dead. The Chief Secretary of South Australia has informed the Victoria Government that owing to the outbreak of phylloxera, the importation of vines, grapes, or cuttings, is strictly prohibited. Experiments with the telephone are being made.

A successful balloon ascent, the first in the colony, has been made in Ballarat by Professor Jackson, and Drew, a hair dresser.

A large deputation of ministers of religion and members of Parliament waited on the Minister of Railways, in- reference to the goods traffic carried on on the Victoria rail ways on Sunday. Mr Woods pointed out that the work is one of necessity, owing to the limited rolling stock. He saw no difference between carrying goods and carrying passengers, they were not going to have a puritanical Sunday in Victoria. At the same time, he deprecated the continental Sunday system.

THE DUPLICATE CABLE.

SYDNEY, January 12.

The Postmaster-General, replying to a deputation of the Chamber of Commerce, approved the route of the duplicate cable from Western Australia to Singapore. He hinted at the desirability of obtaining the assistance of the other Colonial Go vernments.

The heat in the interior is intense. Several fatal sunstroke- are reported. . The salaries of the State schoolmasters have been increased.

DISSOLUTION EXPECTED.

BILL TO REFORM LEGIST a mF? COUNCIL. 18 MELBOURNE, January iF It is rumoured that unless a a '-* ' settlement of the dispute betwe e J >eV' Chambers of the Legislature is effeo i dissolution of the Assembly may k^H pected e^arly in March. " c V At a Cabinet meeting on Monday 9 Mr Berry will probably submit thea_f_| of officers of departments under his |fH diction for dismissal. iIH The services of twelve School Inspepfjl have been dispensed with. Other cha in the Railway and Public Works Den!* ment are contemplated. It is stated that a bill to reform dp Legislative Council is being drafted \_y_A that it is proposed to make it the' fi measure to be brought before the AsseinS I when it meets on February 5. Should tl Council reject the measure an appeal !__l be made to the country on the groundt_tß the Council refuses self-improvement.

DR. SOMERVILLE'S SERVICES.

ADDRESS TO THE YOUNG MEN n » AUCKLAND. . * °*a Dr. Somerville addressed the young men* Auckland at the Theatre Royal yesterfl„ " morning at eight o'clock. There was awS large attendance, the dress circle and s_lA being filled, while the pit, contained about i_ persona. Tho meeting was opened withnravi. offered by Rev. W.J. Williams. P_jv.a_S W. Webb read a portion of St. John's Gos_>? ■- from the 29th verse to the end of the cha„W "; relating to the calling of Andrew, Peter jS Dr. Somerville then preached a very interestiS' sermon upon the portion oi the (?ospel WhidF had been read. He said that Christ, \,hi laying the foundatian of his Church, selected young men, and not women, for the wort They were brought in by the doctrine of Christ ■'■■ found in the words of John the Baptist and were employed in bringing in others. At t_>'"' conclusion. Dr Somerville earnestly appealed ■' to those present to embrace Jesus Christ _fr freely offered to them in the Gospel. Tk F service concluded with prayer.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON" SERVICE. The Theatre was crowded in every Jpart yesterday afternoon by persons _nxkms to heir - Dr. Somerville's address. The orchestra box F stage, passages, cloak rooms, wings, and every other available spot in the building waa occupied. Those seated in the cloak room ' could not see, but only hear what was takirg place. It is estimated that there were fu_f -' 2,100 persons present, and many were unableto obtain admittance. The usual prayer having been offered, the choir, consisting of ahoutK '"■ male and female volunteers, under Mr W. p " Somerville, sang two hymns very well indeed! Dr. Somerville then commenced his discourse taking as his text the second verse in the sixth F chapter of the Song of Solomon :—" My beloved ' has gone down into his garden to the beds of spices, to feed in the garden, and to gather lillies." He preached a good sermon on these words, and succeeded in gaining the attention of his immense audience throughout. At the a conclusion, a hymn was sung by the choir, and the Rev. D. Bruce pronounced the benediction. -'I -

MID-DAY MEETING. ; — \W& The service held hy the Rev. A". N. Somerville D.D., to-day, was attended hy a respectable con gregation of nearly 200 persons, representing all ' classes in the community. The Rey. A. Caygfll ' opened the proceedings, and the Rev. R. P.' _\ Macnicol offered up prayer. Dr Somerville then 1 delivered an eloquent address, taking for his'"._ text 2 Cor., Ist, 10th. and 11th v, " Who delivered I us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in | whom we trust that he will yet deliver ns. Ye I also helping together by prayer for us that for a the gift bestowed upon us hy the means of many | persons thanks may be given by many on our if, behalf." At the conclusion of his address, Dr. 1 Somerville announced the following services:— | An address to ministers and Christian workers 1 this evening at 7.30 o'clock, to which admission | will he hy ticket, which may he obtained gra- -1 tuitously of ciegymen, stewards, and booksellers. Fj The doors will be opened at a quarter past seven, i but admission will be -without ticket -within ten t minutes of the half - hour. Evangelistic I addresses will be deiivered to-morrow and F, on Wednesday evening, and on the latter day \ at 3 o'clock Dr. Somerville will address the • ladies of Auckland on Christian work. The lg usual noon-day meetines will be held in the F Theatre from 12 to 1 o'clock daily. The interest and fervour of the services is much increased by F the excellent singing of the choir under the F j conduct of Mr W. F. Somerville. We under stand that Dr. Somerville wiil remain in New -_ Zealand for a period of about four months. Mj

TELEGRAPHIC.

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.

WELLINGTON, Saturday.' | Be&o__ and Bar.—A Scene. There was another little " scene " between Chief Justice Prendergast and Mr Barton at the Supreme Court this morning. In Chambers yesterday Mr Justice Richmond struck out a case which was down foi hearing before a special jury next week. When the Court met this morning Mr Barton applied to the Chief Justice for a rule nisi, to have the case returned to the list. His Honor replied that the Court was not sitting in banco, and the application could not be heard in Chambers. Mr Barton retorted thac the Co art could hear the application if it chose. He would not apply in Chambers, but in open Court. Mr Justice Richmond had no right to strike it out, and if the Court did not hear the application a cruel and gross injustice - would be done. His Honor for the third time declared that the Court could not sit in banco. He was understood to describe Mr Barton's conduct as'"contumacious." Mr Barton warmly answered that if the Corn refused him justice, he would have to apply to a higher tribunal. He had seen similar applications entertained by the Court at Dunedin dozens of times. His Honor replied that it could not be done, to which Mr Barton replied in a peppery tone that he had seen it done. His Honor sharply replied thatiif it had been done the pro ceeding was most irregular and n.ost im proper. Once more Mr Barton tried, and there was one more refusal, after which the ordinary business of the Court was taken. SERIOUS GUN ACCIDENT.

A serious accident occurred during the rejoicing on welcoming Major Pearce's return this morning. The Arawata was replying to a salute fired by the Artillery Volunteers on the reclaimed land, and an able seaman named Robert Malcolm, was ramming home a charge in a nine-pounder gun, when it suddenly exploded, owing probably to the gun having been insufficiently sponged, consequently some ignited material being left in the tube the result was the rammer was driven away with great violence. The unfortunate man Malcolm had his right hand blown almost to pieces, the thumb was all but torn off with the hand, which was fearfully lacerated and burnt. The sufferer was removed as soon as possible to the hospital. It is feared that he will lose his hand altogether; there are still some hopes of saving it. SERIOUS COLLISION.

The "Post" says the steamer .Arawata has had a very narrow escape this trip of adding another to the formidable list of Vessels sunk by collision during the past 12 months. It appears that the Arawata was steaming down Hobsons Bay against a strong S. W. breeze, when it was discovered that one of the bearings had become heated, rendering it necessary to stop the engine in order to allow the heated brass to cool which process was accelerated by pumping cold water on it. Shortly after the engines had been stopped it was noticed that a brig which was beating down the Bay against a strong head wind was heading a course which, if she held it steadily, would take her just across the Arawata's bows but clear of the steamer. Apparently the steersman on board the brig fancied that the Arawata wras still moving ahead, and that if he held on he would run into her. same course. They tried to start the en gines if possible and move ahead while the brig was hailed, and told to put her helm down. This order apparently was not heard until too late, for when at length the brig's helm was put down, although she came up into the wind instantly, she could not clear the steamer, but ran into her with terrific force while going fully eight knots an hour. Had the Arawata been under weigh, the consequences ;probably would have been fatal to both vessels, and equally so had the brig's course not been changed before the collision, as then she would have struck the Arawata full in the waist, and both vessels almost certainly must have sunk instantly. As it was, the Arawata being stationary, the blow was delivered obliquely, and the steamer, yielding to the

EVENING STAR, MONDAY, JANUARY 14. 1818



mo AGRICULTURISTS & OTHERS ■W. J. HURST afe CO. have on sale the under mentioned Fertilizers, all of which have been proved to produce satisfactory results in this district. Experience teaches that large and oroatable returns can he relied on by a judicious and liberal use of them. The flattering Testi monials from leading Farmers justify W. J. _lurst & Co. in strongly commending them to SMISriIiANDGUANO PERUVIAN GUANO MEXICAN do. BELL- xsONEFLOUR i and i-inch BONED UST BILLYARD'S No. 1 do. NITRATE OF SODA SULPHATE OF AMMONIA MURIATE OF POTASH SUPER-PHOSPHATE OF LIME. SALT, SULPHATE OF LIME. ■_Sln addition to the above, W. J.H.&Co. are prepared to supply special Chemical Manures for stimulating weak Corn Crops, and renovat ing Clover-sick Pastures, as well as the Potato and Mangold mixture that last season attracted so much favourable notice. Analysis, prices, and other particulars wul be supplied on application at the Stores. W. J. HURST & CO., 151 QUEEN-STREET, CLOVER SEED, FOR SPRING SOWING Just Landed, ex Columbus— 30 casks new Clovers, eousisting of Red Clover , • White Clover Cow Gras Also on hand. _ _ ■ Alsyhe, Timothy, Lucerne, Rape Rats-tail, Rye grass, Cocksfoot, &c, at lowest market rates. W. J. HURST & CO. 101, QUEEN-STREET. 500 sacks Sydney Maize (superior sample) 5000 „ Oats _"• First-class Tartars for Seed, also ——SOO sacks of 1875 crop hard feed, surpassing fi_«- any of last season's growth i_fT_oo sacks Canterbury Potatoes, and some fi early varieties for seed purposes Flour, Bran, Sharps, Chaff, Oilcake, Coal, &c, &c. Particular attention is called to .-00 sacks Prime Barley at 4s per bushel o 50lb. 5 tons Anderson's Fresh oatmeal, a £21 per ton. W. J. HURST & CO., 101, QUEEN-STREET. AUCKLAND. TUST RECEIVED. GENTS' BLACK STANLEY SCARVES, In Satin and Corded Silk. ALSO. J_ONG BLACK FOLDING SCARVES, W. RATTRAY, CLOTHIER AND OUTFITTER, "VT EVV 7BAL-ND TTOUSE, "*" AUCKLAND,



TmXPIRATION OF TpARTNERSH IP TERM. DRAPERY AND CLOTHING AT 20 per Cent. REDUCTION ! -p.TJSHBROOK AND "ORIDGMAN. The abovenamed have decided (prior to Stock-taking), in order to facilitate adjustment of accounts, necessitated by the expiration of our term of partnership, to hold a ft CLEARING-OUT SALE, £ And will allow for a limited £■> — period, a H <_• DISCOUNT OF TWENTY PER f 2 CENT. UPON ALL CASH £0 £ PURCHASES. \\_\ 0 t £> 4S.'IN THE £ OFF THE USUAL PRICES. H « ' o W Commencing on rr, & FRIDAY, 11th. JANUARY. _3 (A The Stock is Unusually Heavy, and _: Well-assorted in every H g Department. X p. I % % * g F R. & 8., with satisfaction, direct d attention to the fact that since com- _? mencing business they have steadily y >* avoided all Selling Off. Cheap ~ E_ Sales, &c; their aim having been to \___\ * supply a GOOD ARTICLE at a £_ F REASONABLE PRICE, and ."NO O te PUFF" and deem that the simple © H statement of tho fact is sufficient to c} convince their friends and the public __*, 1 of the bona fide character of the pre- i_3, § sent announcement. Goods Entered will be Charged Usual Prices. Country Orders, accompanied by remittance, will have prompt attention. KUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN, DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, &C, UPPER QUEEN-STREET, Auckland, (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel). HVTEW ZEALAND INSURANCE J3| COMPANY. REDUCED RATES FOR DETACHED DWELLING-HOUSKS :-In the City, from 12s. upwards; in the Country.£om gs- pTERCB> -*_neral Manager. ffS THIS DAY AND DURING THE WEEK, -VVK WILL SHOW • ™oS ES 10,000 PIo? ES FASHIONABLE JDKESS GOODS AND m- PRINTS. ■©» REDUCED TO HAL- 1 PRICE IN ORDER TOF CLEAR. J. COSGRAVE & CO., QUEEN-STREET. "NEVER Have the Public had such a Choice of BED STEADS offered them as at the present time Besides our already well assorted Stock of Iron Bedsteads, and those of our own manu facture in. Kat^ri, Rimu, Cedar, and Mottled Kauri, we ask.them to bear in MIND that we have Just Opened Up, exa^Otoki.' TWO HUNDRED IRON BEDSTEADS of the most modern style, comprising French Half Tkster, Children's, and Stumps, also Cots, at Prices to suit all classes. Having purchased for Cash from THE Best Manufacturers, we can SELL A GOOD BEDSTEAD at a Very Lew Price. 'RTi'lvnTNro of every description, kept in btocK. HOUSESFTONISHED THROUGHOUT at a Short Notice. Our system is to make a large return; to insure this We Sell tor Ready at a SMALL Profit, and DELIVER GOODS FREE to any part of the Town and Suburbs. J_r Give your Furnishing Order to Holloway, _farlic__ & Cranwell, CABINETMAKERS, UPHOLSTERERS, AND CLOTHIERS, City Hall Arcade, queen & lorne-strkets AUCKLAND. TT NI O N INSURANCE COMPANY NEW ZEALAND. APITAL £2,000.000. UCKLAND BRANCH: QUEEN-STREET, Next the Colonial Bank. FIRE DEPARTMENT. Insuranc granted on Dwelling-houses, Stores. Shops, Buildings in which trade is carried on, Merchandise, and Goods of every description. MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers. Merchandise of all bands, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at owest Current Rates. R. H. STEVENSON Manager. XT T> R E N N A N Begs respectfully to intimate to his friends and th? public in general, that he is _??£&& make Gentlemen's American Stub roe Elastic Side Boots, FROM 16s. PER PAIR. Every Article made on the Premises Guaranteed. Orders punctually attended to. H. BRENNAN, OPPOSITE FIRE BELL, QUEEN-STREET.



" Shun as you would prussic acid the detestable shams which their vendors proclaim as identical with, similar to, or as good as Udqlpho Wolfe s Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps. They are all worse than worthless. Very frequently they are sold in bottles which previously contained, the genuine article, which is as agreeable and remedial as they are nauseous and hurtful.