SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

....... ~ (This Afternoon, 7.17 ilH.n ••• A-JUi— -j Xo-morrow Morning, 7.38 3UN SK'i'.— This Evening, 4.45 ct'N RISK.—To-morrow Morning, 7.16 MOONS AG!".- Last Quarter, 23rd, 6.45 am.

ARRIVALS.

Telegraph, schooner, Doughty, from East Coast Fanuy Kelly, ketch, McKinnon, from Russell lona, s.s., Farquhar, from Russell Rover, schooner,- Anderson, from Whangarei Southern Cross, s.s.. Holmes, from Napier Reward, schooner, Caietcheon, from Russell W~ Elizabeth Conway, schooner, Scott, from Noumea

DEPARTURES.

Hii.einoa, G.G.s.s., Fairchild, for East Coast Transit, schooner. Hooper, for Lyttelton

IMPORTS.

Per Queen of the West ; -10bales cork.Dutton Brothers.

Per Sophia R. Luhrs. fromiNev. York _li cases fui niture, 5 cases marble, 12 boxes carriages, 1 poll. 6 bundles shafts, 10 boxes seats, 6 boxes organs, 276 cases chairs, 1 pkg doors, 1 pkg sashes, 1 pkg blinds, 2 shade rollers and 7 buckets, 800 cases kerosene, 100 pkgs wash boards, 21 cases clocks, 41 barrels shoe-pegs, 30 barrels marble dust, 3 cases brooms, 1 crate cornsheliers, 23 casss Hnngarian nails, 2 boxes magnolia balm, 50 cases painkiller, 4 _ cases printed matter, 2 pkgs signs, 48 eases medicines, 3 case- powder blowers, 3 cases sea moss farine, 20 cases hair tonic, 5 cases Lyon's powders, io cases sarsaparilla, 21 qr.-tierces and 25 case 3 tobacco, 500 boxes clothes-pegs, 50 cases dried apples. 50 cases axes, 123 dozec pails, .0 dozen tabs, 7 pkgs printed matter, 1 pkg signs, 03,634 roofing slates. , „ .. 100 cases chairs, 50 cases and 2a qr.-tierces tobacco, 123 dozen pails, 28 dozen tubs.—Owen and Graham. Per Elizabeth Conway, from Noumea : oO tons Per Southern Cross, from Napier: 500 sheep.

EXPORTS.

Per Wallabi, for Wanganui: 1 bale—Owen and Graham.

Inwards Coastwise. — Rover, schooner, from Wangarei, with 50 tons coal, 4 tons gum. 1! hides. 1 ton boues, and 2 bales fungus ; Fanny Kelly, ketch, from Kennedy Bay, with 29 oOOft timber • Telegraph, schooner, from East Coast ports, with 77 pigs, 29 bags wheat, and 1 bags ______ 76 Outwards Coastwise.—Atlantic, schooner, for Thames, with sundries; Sovereign of the Seas, ketch, for Mercury Bay, with 6 passengers and a quantity of sundries; Fanny Kelly, ketch, for Mercury Bay, in ballast; Lake St. Clair, barge, for Wangaroa, in ballast.

The General Government s.s. Hinemoa sailed for Wellington, via Fast Coast ports, late last niirht. with the following passengers: Hon. J. Sheehan (Native Minister), Messrs Runny and Karaitina, M.H.R.'s, Messrs Grace, Kawiti. *° _c* s?s"°Taranaki, from New Plymouth and Southern ports, will arrive in the Manukau on MTne as 's. Ringarooma bumped heavily three times on the Port Chalmers bar yesterday morn in°-. although Captain Clarke declares she only dr-Hwa 15ft. Gin. of water. , _ . The brig Transport will sail for Newcastle in ballast about the middle of next week. She entered out at the Customs to-day. The schooner Transit sailed for Lyttelton last night with a cargo of timber. . The brigantine Adah C. Owen amved at Noumea about a fortnight after the Elizabeth ° Theaschonner Gael will sail for Levuka on or about Monday next. The Ellerton will probably sail for \v anganui ou Monday next. , _ _ v „„-„„ The s s. Southern Cross arrived from Napier last evening, and will return on Monday next. The brig Restless arrived at Hokianga from Auckland yesterday. , _ , The s.s. Hawea may be expected in harbour this evening from Tauranga and Southern ports. Messrs Darrach and Co., shipbuilders, will launch a Jb-e new cutter from their yards, Freeman's Bay, on Monday next. The ss lona arrived from Russell and Northern ports at an early hour this morning, with passengers aud cargo. The schooner Atlantic cleared outwards at thp Customs to-day, for Timaru, via Thames. She is tti °oad with timber at the latter place The schooner Elizabeth Conway arrived at a late hour last night from Noumea, with. a cargo of maize Captain Scott reports arriving at Noumea from Auckland on Sunday, May 12th, and on Wednesday, 22nd, proceeded to Boun, arriving there on Friday. She loaded up with maize, and left again for Auckland on Sunday June 2nd, with light airs and clear weather, which continued until Wednesday, June oth, when fresh breezes with squalls and heavy rain, were experienced. Strong breezes and aa uallv weather were encountered until Monday, Juuo 10th, when a stiff gale accompanied with heavy squalls, set in. The. weather moderated on Wednesday, but the rain still continued to fall heavily. More bad weather, with a heavy gale, was experienced on Thursday, causing the vessel to labour heavily. The Barrier was sighted yesterday morning, and good weather experienced into port, which was reached shortly before 12 o'clock last night. TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.. Gisborne, this day. The s.s. Pretty Jane arrived from Auckland at __.*.__ ?j___'i - null—rrr- ——

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as under:- For Thames, this day, at 0.30 p.m.; and on Monday next, at 2.30 p.m. and 0.30 p.m. For Waiheke and Coromandel, per Argyle, on Monday next, at 11.30 a.m. ..,-__ For Tairua, per Start, this day, at 4,30 p.m. For Russell and Kawa Kawa, per Hawea, on Monday next, at 3 p.m. For Russell, Kawa Kawa, Wangaroa, and Mongonui, per lona, on Monday next, at For Whitianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowena, on Monday next, at 1 p.m. For Napier, per Southern Cross, on Monday

next, at 4 p.m. , For Levuka, per Gael, on Monday next, at

For Taranaki, and Southern Provinces, per Taranaki, on Tuesday next, at 8 a.m. For Waiwera, Kawau, Omaha, and Matakana, per Annie Milbank, on Tuesday next, at For Wangarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarei, and t:Mangapai. per Argyle, on Tuesday next, at 4 p.m. _, F.r Australian Colonies, per Rotorua, on Tues day, 25th instant, at 1 p.m. Per s.s. Hawea, on Thursday, 20th instant, as follows:— _, . For India, China, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 2 p.m. For Tauranga. Gisborne, Napier, Southern Provinces, ustralian Colonies, and United Kingdom, via Suez and Southampton (for letters specially 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. Zealandia, on Tuesday, 25th instant, as For Sandwich Islands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South merica, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 3 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 3 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers at 1.30 p.m. Late letters bear ing an extra fee of 6d in addition to the postage, will be received by the Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

BIRTH.

WILLIAMS.—On the 11th instant, at Ponsonby, Mrs. Jno. R. Williams of v son.

MARRIAGE.

BUTTLE—NICHOLSON.—On tho 11th June, at the Wesleyan Church, Pitt-street, by tho Roy. W. Kirk, assisted by the Riv. John Warren, William Dawson, eldest son of tho lato Rev. G. Buttle, to Louisa, second daughter of Mr. William Nicholson, of Pitt-atrect, Auckland. RUSSELL—KEENE.—On the 12th June, at tho residenco of tho bride's parents, Albert-street, Auckland, by the Rev. J. Robortson, M.A., James Wilson Russell to Rosina Emily Keeno, both of Auckland. SMYTH—OWEN.—On tho _th May, at St. Matthew's Church, Auckland, N.Z., by the Rev. R. Burrows, JohnF. Smyth, of Titirangi, to Edith, socond daughter of James Owen, late of Liverpool.—Liverpool papers please copy.

DEATH.

BANBURY.—This day, June 16th, Mabel Ger trude, infant daughter of Mr. J. Banbury, Shelly Beach Road, Ponsonby. BROUGHTON.—On the 13th June, at her lato residence, Upper Queen and East-streets, Newton, after a long and painful illness, the beloved wife of John Broughton. late Gunnery Instructor Auckland Artillery and Naval Volunteers, aged 40 years. The funeral will take place on Sunday next, 16th instant, at 1 p.m. Friends please accept this intimation. , , RUSHBROOK On 15th June, at her parents' residence Grafton Road, Kate, infant daughter of Wm. N. and Amelia Rushbrook, aged three months. SKINNICR.—On the 13th June, at her residence, Parnell, Agnes Caroline, the dearly beloved wife of W. H. Skinner, aged 30 year*. The funeral will leave her late residence, Salisbury-street. Parnell, on Sunday, at three o'clock. Friends please accept this invitation.

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

SATURDAY, JUNE 15, 1878.

4iotf4mmt>^muiiM—i.i>ts^ataa_ K. ti. Scot U *n ____.

We have received a large amount of correspondence on the Grammar School embroglio, most of it animated by anything but a desire to " throw oil on the troubled waters," or by friendly feelings towards tho Grammar School. From our report of the meeting of the Improvement Commissioners to-day, however, the question has en tered on a new, and, we trust, a more peaceful phase. The Hon. J. Sheehan last night, before his departure for the South, instructed Mr Cominis.sioner Thomson toaccept the key and possession of the build ing to-day, on behalf of the Government. The Commissioners have thus fulfilled their part of the agreement with the Government; they have handed over the building; the bailiffs were dismissed, and a number of the police already occupy the place. Tho school building is now completely out of the Improvement Commissioners' hands, and any future dealing* respecting it must now be carried on with the Government. That the same result might have been attained without all the public scandal that has arisen, but for a singular wroug-hoaded ness which we cannot but marvel at and deplore, we have always maintained. We cannot but think that if Mr Justice Gillies, Chairman of the Board of Governors, had been here, the course of events would have been different, and he would, have so smoothed, the irate feelings of the rending factious inside and outside of that body, that the Board would have been saved from stultifying itself in the eyes of the public in the way it has hitherto done. A meeting of the Board of Governors will be held on Mon day, when Mr Gillies, who is expected from the South, will probably be present, and we have every confidence that, as hold ing the balance between tho equally divided parties in the Board, he will exercise his inilueuce iv such a way us to bring this pain ful and unseemly dispute to a speedy termination. The status quo now existing^ though arrived at by ways in the highest degree to be deprecated, affords the basis of a permanent settlement which will, we be lieve, be accepted. By it, the terms of the agreement ratified by law lust session are fulfilled; the police obtain suitable barracks; the public will secure the immediate clear ing of the Park reserve—so long neglected— and the formation of a good cricket ground in the centre of the city; and the Grammar School will gain much better and more comfortable accommoda tion than it has hitherto enjoyed. For this purpose Judge Fentou, at a per sonal sacrifice, has secured the consent of the General Government to the use of the District Court building as a Grammar School, if the Board of Governors prefer it to the Choral Hall, which is still available. There are also open for choice the un used accommodation of St. Andrew's school building, already partly occupied by the Grammar School; St. Paul's school-room ; aud a] good building near tho District Court, formerly used as a, Wesleyan Chapel—a choice 'of four places, three of which are in every Avay better adapted for a school than the miserable barn just vacated. It appears to us perfectly mar vellous that the coutse suggested by corn common sense, and originally adopted by the Governors in agreement with the Im provement Commissioners, was not quietly pursued. But late than never; and we believe the dearest wish the public now have in the matter is that they shall hear no more about it.

NEW RAILWAY STATION FOR AUCKLAND.

We would remind the people of Auckland and surrounding districts of the public m.eting called for three o'clock on Monday next, in the Theatre Royal, "to consider the immediate necessity for the removal of the Auckland Railway Station to a more central locality," with a view to laying the matter before Mr Macandrew, Minister of Public Works, who is expected in Auckland. The importance of the ques tion to the whole city, but especially to owners of property, should ensure a very large and influential attendance. We

know nothing of the arrangements—if any have been sketched —for carrying out the proposed object, but the most effective plan will doubtless be to appoint a strong and active committee, representing the views of the majority of the meeting, to press the matter unceasingly upon the Government until it is brought to a practical issue. Such a committee must be furnished with some monetary resources, and should therefore be author ised to raise sufficient subscriptions to pay necessary expenses, so that agitation may never stop until the present disgraceful terminus to our railway system is replaced by a station befitting the importance and meeting the requirements of the city.

Mr Commissioner Thomson returned from the North in tho Hinemoa, after a tour of inspection of the many scattered stations under his care along the line traversed by the Hon. J. Sheehau and party. Mr Thomson has the charge of a very wide district and a large body of officers, and. it is most creditable to him that the police system throughout the pro vincial district is so efficient and gives such general public satisfaction. A football match between the Auckland aud North Shore Clubs was proceeding at the North Shore when wo went to press. The St Matthews Sunday school choir will give an entertainment on the evening of the 9th of July, in Lome-street Hall, in aid of the choir funds. Further particulars will be duly announced. Mr Donald Reid, the ex-M.H.R., is about to commence business as an auctioneer in Dunedin.

The Mayor of Dunedin is to be assisted in his business as Trustee in Bankruptcy by Mr Bastings, M.H.R. Mr Reeves is a popular candidate for the seat vacated by Mr Larnach, but it is understood that Mr Oliver will have the Government support. A case of assault of considerable interest was hoard at the Police Court, Gisborne, yesterday. The defendant, a man named Hardy, struck the plaintiff Joyce on the mouth, knocking two teeth out, for saying « to with the Queen and Duke of Edinbro'." A great deal of evidence was heard, after which Hardy was committed to take his trial at the next sitting of the Supreme Court, Wellington, but admitted to bail.

The " Dunedin Star " supports Mr H. F. Fisher's proposal to recognise in some way Sir Julius Vogel's services iv floating the New Zealand loan.

Mr Willoughby Braesey, solicitor, lately practicing at the Thames, and who, owing to unsuccessful mining speculations, was compelled to seek the protection of the Bankruptcy Court, has obtained his dis charge, and entered into arrangements to pay his creditors in full as soon as possible. This is highly creditable. Two water-colour drawings representing Kennedy's Bay and the Waikato river, at Mercer, are on view, for a few days, in the window of Messrs Phillipps and Son. The artist, Mr Bowriug, has executed his work with much fidelity. The pictures give promise of yet greater success. A Waikato correspondent wiites :— " Waipa will shortly be in the throes of an exciting election. The free and independent are expanding their manly bosoms, and a numerous list of names is given us as being either of probable candidates or else of those who arc willing to accept the seat vacated by Alfred Cox, Esq. Among these are Messrs J. B. Whyte, F. A. Whitaker, McMinn, Roache, Jolly, Major Jackson, Captain Steele, B. Edwards. As these gentlemen possess diverse qualities, a fair choice appears offering. The latter named would bo the only one able to carry out the eminent English statesman's boast; that he could drive a coach and six horses through any Act passed by Parliament. If any man in political creation can do this Ben Edwards can, and if M. H.R. does get added to ' his name and the present Government get fared an act of Parliament requiring the coach and six horses, Mr Edwards will as cheerfully do it as he coached them to Tamehere a short time ago, where they were stuck up by the "gibbing" acts of their elsewhere hired steeds, which found obstructions in every hill.

Mr Robert Brewin seedsman, opened his new premises, next to Union Bank, to-day with a line assortment fruits and plants of the seasau. The shop is conveniently and elegantly fitted up, and will compare favourably with any store of the kind in Queen-street. We learn that Mr James Morton, of the firm of Grant & Morton, is recovering from his indisposition. He passed a good night's rest, and Dra Kcnderdine and Goldsbro' have pronounced him out of danger, but it will be some time before he is able to resume his duties.

The only business at the Police Court this morning, before Mr Barstqw, was tiie committal of two little boys to the Howe street Industrial Home.

To the Editor : Sir, —As the City Council is to meet on the 17th inst., for fixing levels of Upper Queen-street, Karangahape Road, Pitt, Symonds, Liverpool, and other streets, 1 would draw the attention of the City Councillors to the bottom of Grey-street, from the lire-bell up Grey-street say five hundred feet or more as there is a great hollow there. It would ease Cook-street, aud the Market-place could have a few steps to lead down to it, as there are no permanent buildings at present of any consequence in that locality. It would be a great ornament to the city, besides beiug a great convenience for traffic—Yours etc., A Ratepayer. " Cricket" inquires whether the Aus tralian team, now in England, are profes sionals or not. The question is rather a difficult one to answer. In Australia they were undoubtedly all amateurs, but the New Zealand and English tours are, in a measure at least, business speculations, and may bring the team within the category of professionals. The line which is supposed to divide amateur and professional cricketers is not very finely drawn. Grace, who took the lion's share of the money re ceived by the English professional team which visited Australia, indignantly re pudiates the term " professional," and is ranked in cricketing records as a " gentle man" player. The Australian team are entitled on much better grounds to retain the name of "amateurs."

It will be seen by an advertisement else where that a meeting of the Pioneer Lodge No. 936, N.1.0.F, will be held in the Alexander-street school-room on Monday evening next, to hear read a report from the Executive Committee of Grand Lodge of England, received by Bro. H.. Rafton, P.G.M., per last maiL Every member is requested to attend. An excellent programme has been pre pared by Messis Ross and Dean's Ministrels for the benfit of widow and orphans iv the Lome-street Hall on June 25th. The first part of the progtamnie will consist of solos, choruses, &c. Four end men will take part in the chair performauce, viz.—Danny Bertie and Fred Rice, tambos ; and George Kemble and Charlie Ross, boues. Mr Horace Dean will act as interlocutor. The Ist part will conclude with a grand finale, " a trip round the world," introducing the na(ional airs of England, France, Germany, aud America. The second part will com prise a variety of new songs, dances, &c, in which a number of favourite amateurs w appear.

The Chairman of the Patea Harbour Boaif —Mr Sherwood—laid the foundation stone of the breakwater yesterday.

At a meeting of the Board of Education, the Secretary of the Board presented a schedule of local libraries entitled to share the subsidies in accordance with the Act, aud which was referred to the Executive Committee. Amongst the list were : Auck land Institute, £95; Cambridge, £25 ; Hob sonville, £15; Howick, £2 ; Kawakawa, £26 ; Kirktown, £9; Lake, £19 ; Mahu rangi, £9 ; Mahurangi Heads, £6 ; New market, £24 ; Ngaruawahia, £9 ; Otahuhu, £3 ; Pakuranga, £6; Papakura, £16 ; Puke kohe East, £6; Te Awamutu, £10; Waiuku Institute, £12 ; Whangarei Insti tute, £9/).

The quarterly meeting of the Auckland Shipwrights' Protection Society **£ c *"£ on Monday evening next, in the club-room of the Working Men's Club Queen-st eet. The United Temperance Society will hold its fourth weekly meeting this evening m the Temperance Hall. Addresses on Temperance will be delivered by friends ol the cause, aud songs and recitations given by members.. Mr Marson will sing a parody on the " Village Blacksmith." The announcement of Sunday services will be found on the third page of the present issue. An emergency meeting of the Lodges, Royal Arch Chapter, St Andrew, and United Service, will be held m the Masonic Hotel this evening to consider the. property of the Masonic Hall. Remarking on the recent order against football issued by the Bank of New Zealand, the writer of "Passing Notesi"i in the Otago " Daily Times " says :—" The Bank of New Zealand at Auckland has given practical expression to a sentiment that is pretty generally entertained. The authori ties of that institution have made an intima tion that any of their officers incapacitated for work from playing football will be forth with dismissed. Such a step is sure to be called in question as an interference with the libefty of the subject, and a discourage ment to physical training ; but we venture to say that the Bank deserves the cordial thanks of all good citizens. We have little doubt that the Bank fully recognises the value of all legitimate athletic exercises for its employes ; but a brutal, savage game, such as this, wheu conducted according to the now generally-recognised rules of play ing, is a disgrace to civilisation." The Government are erecting three sheds, each 300 feet long, at Waitara. Rewi isat Mokati, on his way down, and will arrive on the 19th inst. Rewi is to be called to the Upper House next week. On tho first of July the Government will issue 2s and 5s postage stamps. The Governor and stall left Lyttelton for Wellington yesterday afternoon. A meeting wili be called by Captain Macdodald, of the Thames, in the course of next week, tor the purpose of forming a second Company of Thames Scottish Volun teers. , . , The Wellington newspapers which are generally well-informed in such matters, State Parliament will not meet until the end of July. There is a rumour afloat that Mr Cox and family are about to leave Waikato and resettle iii Canterbury, where, we believe, Mr Cox owns considerable property. We call attention to the announcement of the grand concert on Monday evening next in the Choral Hall in aid of the Engi uecr and City Baud fund. Readers will observe that the programme is a very choice one, and worthy of that genial support which this excellent band unquestionably deserves. Mr Inipey and his musical companions have done much towards popularising good music among citizens. The band will peiform an overture from Verdi's "Nebuchadnezzar;" a descriptive fantasia, " From East to West," (Brown), illustrative ofithe music of various nations ; waltzes, and 'other selections. Mr Impey will play a clarionet solo from "II Puritani" (Lazarus) ; Miss Turrell will perform :-. violin solo from "Trovatore." Miss Turrell is perhaps the best local violinist we have, aud her performances have elicited general admiration. A number of ladies have promised to .sing, and among these lady-vocalists we notice the name of Mis.s Hunter, a great favourite at the Thames, who will sing "Truth and Absence," a ballad of much interest; the Misses Howard will sing Glover's popular ballad "The Wind and the Harp." A young lady of much musical promise, a pupil of Mr D. Cope, will perform a solo on the English concertina. " Scotland," a duet (flute aud clarionet), by Messrs limes and Impey; two songs by Mr H. Thomp son ; and the pretty song, "Nancy Lee," by Mr Bnrnhani ; and other musical items, make up a goodly programme worthy the liberal support of the public. We hope to see a full house. At the Board of Education meeting' yes terday, the advertisement of Mr Brabazon was brought under notice, and in the opiuion of the Inspector of Schools, was considered improper on the part of Mr Brabazon, and in this opiuion the Board con curred. On the motion of Mr Moat seconded by Mr May, the Board resolved, "Tnat no special classes for the preparation of pupils for scholarships or other purposes should be permitted in a public school during school hours, and that no master of a pir lie school .should be permitted to adver tise iv any way the day school of which he was in cbarge." The Napier "Daily Telegraph" of the 11th iust. says :—" It is reported in Napier on very fair authority that Mr Hugh Hart Lusk, the late member for Franklin in the Generiil Assembly, is to be appointed District Judge aud Resident Magistrate for the Hawke's Bay District." Brethren of the Masonic fraternity are reminded that tho funeral oi Bro Donald McKeuzie takes place at Onehunga to morrow (Sunday) at 330 p. m. The services of the Band of the Artillery Volunteers has been tendered by Captain Burns out of respect to deceased who was a Waterloo veteran. It is anticipated that a consider able number of Masons from Auckland will be present. The whole of the Scottish Lodges iv Auckland will also be present. The brother of deceased has been many years connected with the Masonic craft, and is said to be the oldest Freemason in New Zealand. The train leaves Auck land at 2 30 p.m. and returns at 5 30 p.m. A gran a variety entertainment will be given to the sons of the "Gem of the Sea" on Tuesday evening next, in the Masonic Hall, Onehunga. The Templar Brass Baud will be in attendance. A spirited football match was played on the Metropolitan ground this afternoon between the Ponsonby and Grafton Clubs. The Rev. Father Walter McDonald acknowledges with thanks the receipt of £5 from Mr Charles Clark, towards St. Mary's Orphanage, Ponsonby.

Distribution of £40,000 Vote Amongst Counties.

In reply to a telegram sent by Mr Tole, M.H.R., to the Treasurer, intimating that the inquiries were being made as to when the Eden County share of the £40,000 would be paid, the following answer has been rceeived :—"Government Buildings, 14/6/78.— J. A. Tole, Esq., Auckland.— Money is all ready. Its issue only awaits the approval of the Governor in Council.— C. T. Battkin, Secretary to the Treasury."— It is satisfactory to our suburban readers to learn that the recent rumour of our morning contemporary is utterly without foundation, that all counties in which the Act is not in full operation will be debarred from participating in the benefits arising from the distribution of that vote.

THEATRE ROYAL.

Miss Annie Firmin took a complimentary benefit in the comedy of " Ultimo" last night. There was a fair house, and the piece ran much more smoothly than on its first representation. The bemficiare played the heroine Virginia Grayson with much vivacity, and was considerably applauded. Mr Jack, the eccentric professor, and Mr Musgrave, his banker brother—both gentle men gave full prominence to their respec tive parts. Mrs Hill made a charming Pauline Lexington, «.nd Miss May, as the banker's poetic wife, showed herself well able to appreciate the humour of the part. Mr O'Brien was an amusing Mr DctEl'as, Mr Steele a manly George Pittman. Mr Burford and Miss Raymond played small parts satisfactorily. This evening will ba THE LAST NIGHT OF THE SEASON. The piece choseu for representation is "Under the Gaslight" a drama which is sure to pleas the Saturday night audience. On Monday the company appear at the Theatre Royal Grahamstown in " Falstaff."

The Battle of the School.

A mOMgTK™ UP IN THE

Ye haython pods and goddesses from high Attind memusefoou', don't refuse, but listen to me now; Wid martial fire insphire me lyre. While I relate the dhule. The loud alarums, the deeds of arums, All in tho Grammar Skool. Shure there was deeds of valour done in his thory will shine, . . The blazing page of Homer's age rivives m lvry line, The saiga of Throy and i ontenoy, _ne BH.IBO . Aq . blof)dy Wa thergruel, D'ye moind me now, was but a row. The moighty Prime—Troy's ancient line—rose up at peep o' day, A process served, and nivcr swerved, but saized upon the!kay; (To twisht a sthick, asthore, avick. Be j abers, he's ajo wel); And evicted all, both great and shmall, From the Auckland Grammar Skool. Och ! blood an' 'ounds, thin there was sounds, Och ! wirra sthru 11 asthore !!! ( Whin Macrae oome an' saw a " bum was stationed at the dhoor, He guv a howl would nz the sowl Cb Of Ancient Fin-ma-Cool, Whin he saw his foes.Jferninst his nose, In the Auckland Grammar Skool. The moighty Booord of Governors they mit in brilliant style, , , . —-—.- O'Rooke was there, an' in the chair, was Camp bell of Argyle, , , Bould Haultain swoore he'd wade in goore, Before he'd own their rule, Or sthand to bo evicted, from the Auckland Grammar Skool. Bould Britt, the Mayor, bedad was there, and made a grand oration : , Talked loike a book„an' wid O'Rooke, he carried a vacation. An' thim gossoons they sthrack up tunes, An' danced a pas de seul. An' played up games, whin Misthcr James Proclaimed it to the Skool. But whin the dark'ning shades of ove acrost the Park descinded, . An' whiu the boys, wid shouts and noise, their homeward way had winded, Macrae sot there in his arum chair, W id countenance quite cool, Consphiring thricks the "bums" to fix, and Baize the Grammar Skool. One "bum" had gone, arrah ! Ochone, to ate his avening male, _ nd shly Macrae sthill shmoked his clay, and chuckled, I'll go bail; He knew he'd win, for faix i ust thin, Tho other "bum"—the fool. He wint out to the rear of the Auckland Grammar Skool. Wid loud hurroo! like Brian Boru, uprose Macrae, quite frishky, . Like leprecaun upon tho lawn, orjbhoyiinsphired wid whisky. Ho done the trick, asthoro, avick. He saized upon a Stool, A barricade, ycr sowl, he made, Inside the Grammar Skool. Och! taro an'ages, hear the rages, the swearing an' the shindy, , , Whin bould Macrae wid looks so gay tuk lunara through a windy ; An' thin, ochone, a bit iv a sthone ThoibailifTsaized, me jewel, An" hit a lick at tho dhoor, avick, of the Auckland Grammar Skool. Och, sure me Muse, yez must excuse, me varse ain't worth a traneen, 1 Fur to pourthray, the dls'p'rate fray that tuk place in tho morning, Whin Messrs Britt an' Macrae mit, widf Looks so fierce and cruel. Like Achilles bould. an' Hector ould f erninst The Grammar Skool. For all in awe, spectators saw these champions bould debated, An' all the boys they hushed their noise and fur the skrimmage waited. :Twas not to be, for Mars' decree Forbad the combat cruel, An' saved that day the bould Macrao From dying for the Skool. Just thin, a.vlcks, six mm wid sthicks bate in the big front dhoor, Arrah, the blows mo ould blood rose to twisht a sthick once more. An' thin, be Gum ! tho Boord's ould bum Put fire to me fule, Whin ho tumbled out upon hi 3 shnout, From the Auckland Grammar Skool. They've fought and bled, but paice is rned, the Congriss comes between, The Roll of Fame's incrased wid names, we'll toasht thim in poteen. Though Plevna's saige adorns a page, And famed idebastypool, They're thrifles to the saiges Of the Auckland Grammar Skool

Pat Dun-no-hoo,

CABLEGRAMS.

[REUTERS SPECIAL CABLEGRAMS.]

The Congress Opened.

Austria Insists on Federation of

Servia and Montenegro.

BERLIN, June 14..1

The Congress has been formally opened, but the first working sitting will not be held until Monday, the 17th inst.

Austria favouis the federation of Servia and Montenegro under Austrian auspices in the conclusion of the present military con vention.

Steamer Garonne Ashore.

Two Passengers Drow_ed_

BOMBAY, June 13.

The.Orient Company's steamer Garonne has been ashore at Has Hasemoii for three days.

The names of those Salucutsy and T'oyce.

drowned are

One of the passengers got off safely, and proceeded with despatches to Aden. He left the wreck on June 7th, but no tidings have been heard of him since.

ENGLAND'S POLICY AT THE CON GRESS.

LONDON, June 13

The Secretary of State for the Colonies, at a Conservative banquet said that Eng land, at the Congress, which will open on June 14th, will adhere to Lord Salisbury's circular that the Porte must retain the necessary independence to perform sove reign functions.

AUSTRALIAN.

[reuter's special cablegram.]

NEW BISHOP OF QUEENSLAND. MELBOURNE, June 14. The Rev. Mr Stanton, Incumbent of Trinity Church, London, has been conse crated Bishop of Queensland. Mr Davis, representative of the American overland route, leaves for Auckland. The Siam, with the Suez mails, sailed to-day. SHIPPING NEWS. SYDNEY, June 14. The s.s. Normauby, with the Torres Straits mail, arrived at Cooktown. The Chimborazo has been repaired at a cost of £10,100, and is now afloat. The Cuzco has been spoken off the Victor ian coast, under sail; she has broken .the main shaft.

"Casting Money Into The Sea."

DEDICATED WITH PROFOUND RE SPECT TO THE HARBOUR BOARD.

The Jersey correspondent of the " Pall Mall Gazette" says : — " It is recorded that when the late Prince Consort visited the island of Jersey iv company with Her Majesty in the year 1546, he expressed his surprise that the people of that place should have been so unwise as to " make a harbour on dry land," which they virtually did by forming it so that it is perfectly dry at low tide, with not sufficient depth of water to float a cork-boat. The implied taunt of His Royal Highness appears to have been rather keenly felt, as since that period plans and suggestions ad infinitum have been put forward to effect a remedy, and wipe away the reproach. Nothing, however, was done till some six or seven years ago, when, after de liberations extending overa very long period, the States determined to construct a low water landing stage on the east, and a break water at the west of St. Hillier's Harbour, after plans by Sir John Coode, at an esti mated cost of £252,50G«1.n enormous sum for so small a return. The works were car ried on amid considerable difficulties on the east side. Three very serious breaches were

inaae m i.ne sea-wall, and Sir JoK having reported on the impractic.l-,^ carrying out his plan, the States .ty °' to stop all further proceeding and .L 3olveoV ' finished undertaking on both'sid_«** ■ harbour now remains, a mri V1"* monument Of the waste of money. From the returns now rjuhi^lic it appears that about £180 000 h_e^' expended on these useless works eu literally cast into the sea. But tho oney costly sub-aqueous work is lost to \^ will remain to memory dear for _„n •* to come. The neat little sum nf £8000 will be required to p ay j|L^lj the money borrowed _for this __*&* work, and how it can be met, leavino■ * the question the reimbursement f °* principal, without the imposition of t„_ % difficult to understand. All art 8* hitherto to introduce taxation in any _.Pts beyond that on wine and spirits fc^ signally failed ; and the mere hint of'_? ye' during a measure for such a purpose »S_f opposition so strong and fierce that notV but the fear of utter bankruptcy will induce acquiescence." evet From the above extract it would anru. that Sir John Coode's scientific skill lg .: quite so infallible on the subject of harbo as some people would have us believe &

IMPROVEMENT COMMISSIONERS.

THE ordinary meeting of the Auckland Improvement Commissioners was held . noon to-day, in the office, Insurance BuiM ings. Present : Messrs F. D. Fenton H Brett, Chambers, H. H. Lusk, and J Cosgrave

COMMITTEE MINUTES. ' The Secretary read the minutes of a com mittee meeting on June 10th, at which it was agreed that the letter n_orming the Grammar School Board of Governors of the step 3 talcen by the Commissioners should be sent.

Mr Brett said the Board of Governors had thought it unnecessary to, reply to this communication, as they had already adver. tised a fortnight's holidays.

Mr Fenton : When are the holidays sup. posed to commence ? v" The Chairman : From to-day. Mr Cosgrave : The bailiffs have given the j holidays. f

The Chairman : They were given by Mr Macrae on Friday morning.

The minutes of another committee meeting were read and confirmed. HANDING OVER THE BUILDING. Mr Brett said that in accordance with the letter sent by the Improvement Co___. sioners, the Hon. J. Sheehan had instructed Mr Thomson, Inspector of Police, to take possession of the building as soon as the Improvement Commissioners were ready to hand it over. ' .

Mr Cosgrave : The best course for the Commissioners to adopt would be to hand it over at once.

Mr Brett : The Government is willing to take possession of it to-day. Mr Fen ton : Then the conveyance may be made afterwards.

In reply to Mr Cosgrave, Mr Brett stated that Mr Sheehan had acted in the capacity of Government agent in Auckland for some time.

Mr Brett: I was present at the time Mr Sbeeiian gave his instructions to Inspector Thomson.

Mr Cosgrave : Were those instructions given iv writing, or were they merely verbal?

Mr Brett: They were not given in writ ing. I was on board the steamer last night, aud heard Mr Sheehan authorise Mr Thomson to take over the building on ! behalf of the Government. Mr Pardy, Sub-luspector of Police, was also present. Mr Fenton : It is for us to consider what is to be done now. Mr Cosgrave : I think it would be a proper course to pursue for the Commission. ers to hand the building over, and instruct our Secretary to hand the building over to Commissioner Thomson on behalf of the. Government. It has been a very disagreev able affair throughout, and it is better to put a stop to it, and then we shall have no more to do with it. Mr Fenton : There is no reason a day's delay should occur. The sooner it is done the better. -. -* Mr Cosgrave : We shall have nothing to do with the building when it has been handed over to the police. We can haveZ no further altercation about it when it has S been handed over to the Government. Mr Chambers : Can we hand it over to tbe Government ? Mr Lusk : I looked into the Act this morning after I saw you, and it is quite, clear the Government have power by the Act to give a sum of money in exchange for it. I also came here and saw the corres pondence upon the subject, andlcanseeno step to be taken except to pass a resolution authorising some one to hand over the build ing. I think the secretary is the proper person, and I should recommend that it be hand edovertoCommissionerThomsononbe- , half of the Government in pursuance of the arrangement made with the Govern ment, and then to communicate , with the Government requesting them to carry out the agreement. No agreement can be made because Commissioner ThomsonZ, is not empowered to enter into an agreement s on behalf of the Government. All he can do is to take procession, which I understand;, he has been instructed to do. Then the\ proceedings should be recorded on "the minutes. The Secretary's powers are con ferred by the Act of 1873: "Allnotices under this Act may be given under th& hand of the Secretary." It does not say possession or any thing of that kind, butl take it you can appoint any gentleman yoa pleas, to hand over the building. '" The Chairman : It seems to me it would be better for the whole of the Improvement Commissioners to be appointed a comnit» tee to go and In*ad over the building. ~. ~ • Mr Cosgrav : I think the Secretary should do it. - ■■;{>-,

The Chairman : That would not do| there must be some delivery. «

Mr Fentou : There must be some corpor ate delivery. "■'' '"' Mr Cosgrave : As the Chairman has taken. such an active part in it, I would move that the Chairman and Mr Prime hand the. building over to the Government, and, of course, that they go unarmed. I m Mr Lusk : Do you know they say you - are not a Corporation at all? ma __: Mr Fenton : Who says so ? m_- Mr Lusk :MrJ. B. Russell says so. He says you made a mistake, You are not % Corporation at all; you have long since ceased to be a Corporation. It_ is quite a new thing to me. He says he is going to knock you over on Wednesday next, on the j ground that you are not a Corporation. ... Mr Fenton : We cannot help it. Mr Lusk : Of course you feel like one at present. Z " Mr Cosgrave : It is a pity there is not a member of the Improvement Commissioners who has a corporation. If we had a Daniel Lambert here we should have some status in a Court of law. Are you going to go up now ? The Chairman : Yes. , Mr Cosgrave : Would it not be better to have lunch first? You will need to ue fortified for the occasion. ■ Z" The Chairman : Mr Comi_.ss."Ouer Thom son will be at his office up to 1 o'clock, l;; asked the Government if they had any P^% jection to the furniture, &c, belonging, ™ the Grammar School remaining there a lew, days, and Mr Sheehan said they had none. Mr Cosgrave :'I believe the furniture is very splendid, according to the STAR report. Mr Lusk : The furniture is not very gor geous, but it is useful for the purpose. £>'v she v s the Spartan character of the edufft tion. ■___,'■£■' Mr Fenton: I move that "The .Mag having reported that the Hon. J. Sneeniu-- had instructed Mr Thomson, Commissions of Police, to take over the barrack buiMWS, on behalf of the Government at anyZES, the Commissioners thought fit, resolved^1 the Mayor, Mr Cosgrave, Mr IWJJJ . and the mover, be appointed on k^r:-^. the Commissioners to hand over the °°^ cc ihg and premises immediately, in pursua

EVENING STAR, SATURDAY, JUNE 15, 1318



T>R~ M,E TABLE POT AT O EIS PRIME TARTARIAN SEED OATS PRIME MILLING OATS PRIME SPRING WHEAT PRIME BONEDUST PRIME GARDEN SEEDS. W. J. HURST & CO., ' 101. Queen-street. TC" O .T I C E. ' T. B. HILL Begs to inform his Friends and the Public of Auckland that, he has Opened his New Premises, in the centre of Queen-street, opposite the Theatre Royal. It is his intention, by personal attention to business, to make his Establishment Fikst-class Dispensing and Family Con cern, where any article may bo obtained for the sick-room, as also every approved New Medicine introduced into the Old Countries, as well as the Finest Medicinal Drugs and Chemicals. These will be regularly imported, at short intervals, direct from the Best Houses, so that the Patients may depend on having the full benefit of the Physicians' skill. T. B. H., therefore, looks forward to a con tinuance of that confidence and support which ha 3 always been accorded to him by the inhabit ants of New Zealand. T. B. H. would also inform tho Members of the Medical Profession that a Consultation Room will bo at their service, and from the central position of the Establishment this may be found unusually advantageous to them and their Patients. • NB. — Family Orders from the Country promptly attended to. and despatched by the first opportunity. Postage and Receipt Stamps. «__ Observe the Address— Opposite the Theatre Royal.



Gas is superior to every other material as a litrht-giving agent, not only on accouut of its brilliancy aud its cheapness, but because it is safer, economises time and labour, and is more easily managed. Amongst all classes of society it is in high favour ; taking rank with the necessaries, as well as the elegancies of life. It merits whatever can be said on its behalf. Those who have enjoyed its advantages are always the most ready, as they are also the most competent to pro claim its praise.—[See Advertisement.J



/ 1 LOVER SEEDS, KYJ_ GRASS, &C On Sale, ex Late Arrivals: CLOVER SEED S, CONSISTING Off Whius Clove-- Timothy Red Clover Rape Cow Gruss Trefoil Alsyke Sec, &c, Sec. Turnip ALSO, 200 bushels ENGLISH PERENNIAL RYE GRASS 50 bushels ENGLISH POA PRATENSIB 500 lbs. INDIAN DOOB GRASS 1,000 lbs. ALFALPA 2,090 lbs. AMERICAN TIMOTHY. AND A Fine Collection of Farm and Garden Seeds. The above have arrived in first-class condition. Samples will be forwarded on application. Poverty Bay, Canterbury, and local Rye Gras Cocksfoot. Ratstail, Poas Fescues, &c. &c. ?rorn carefully selected samples, at lowest mar ket rates. __ J HURST & COj Queen-street. a MAGNIFICENT STOCK OF NEW AUTUMN AND WINTER DRESS MATER AL S Just Opened. 13 • Atkins Invites, attention to his Stock of Now Dress Materials, Ladies Jackets, Ulsters, Black and Coloured Silks, Velvets, Velve teens, &c, suitable for the coming Season. Now on View. Splen did Colours iv New Silk Reps, . Wool Reps, Wool Poplinettes. Satin Cloths, Wool Serges.Twilled Carmelites, Estamano Serges, French Merinos, Winseys, 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 tho city. Good quality Black Silk at 3s lid per yard. All the now shades in Coloured Silks. Also Good Cheap Blankets, Quilts, Sheetings, Table Linen, Flannels, Calioos, and Manchester Goods. IN THE CLOTHING DEPARTMENT Now Tweed Suits. Coats, Trow- BOrs and Vests suitable for all classes. A largo Stock of Boy's and Youth's Tweed Suits, in our own mako and imported. An immense stock of New Tweeds in Bmmockburn, Mosgiel, Scotch, West of England, &c. Tailors can select from the largest stock in A uckland at Wholesale Prices. Cheap Tweeds suitable for Boy's wear. Good Quality Guaranteed, and Pricks Lowest in Auckland for 1 All Descriptions of Drapery and Clothing. esr H. ATKIN S, II q P E C I A L NOTICE. In addition to our Usual Largo Assortment of GENERAL HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, We arc Now Showing tho following GOODS, Just Landed, ex ' Aikshaw' :— WALNUT DRAWING-ROOM SUITES, in Silk MARbLE-TOP WASHSTANDS CHIMNEY-GLASSES, Gilt, Very Handsome Patterns CHIMNEY-GLASSES, in Walnnt and Maple Frames * CANE-SEATED CHAIRS, Various Patterns TOILET GLASSES, Great Variety. T. & H. Cooke, FURNITURE, CARPET, AND FLOOR-CLOTH SHOW-ROOMS: 67, QUKEN-STREET. Steam Cabinet Factory : Victoria-street. TIN COURAGE NEW ZEALAND INDUSTRIES! To the People of Auckland ! Messrs. Hallenstein Brothers Desire to inform you that a RETAIL BRANCH OF THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY Is Now OPENinQueen-street, opposite Theatre Royal. To effectually introduce their Goods and drive out the imported article, they have decided to SELL a Single Article at tho Wholesale Price. All Goods are marked in Plain Figures, for Nett Cash only. Any Article purchased and ap proved of, will be exchanged with the same courtesy with which it was sold, or if desired, the money will be returned. The success which has attonded tho New Zealand Clothing Factory's Retail Bi anchca in olher towns leads the Proprietors to believe that there exists a praiseworthy desire on the part of tho Public to encourage New Zealand Industries, especially where superior advantages are offered ; and your support is solicited on _is under standing only. N. L. MEYER, Manager Auckland Branch, sole agent for WERTHEIM'S CELEBRATED SEWING MACHINES; the best machine in the world. When You Wish to Furnish Your Souse obtain a Book Catalogue from the City Hall Arcade, which contains valuable informa tion, not only enumerating what can be obtained, there, but shewing the cost of Fur nishing a Three, Four, Five, and Six-roomed house ; also, Drawingroom separately, and Bachelor's Rooms. The proprietors have lately purchased from Messrs. Grossman and Harding the balance of their very hand some Stock of Swiss Goods, beautifully and wonderfully carved, which are being rapidly disposed of, at Half-price ! Also, just opened up, a large lot of Fancy Baskets aud various articles suitable for presents. Just received, some magnificent all-wool Kidder minster Carpets, for dining and bed-rooms ; very cheap Tapestry, Brussels and Felt Carpets : the largest stock in Auckland. All kinds of House Furniture, and an immense assortment of Bedsteads in Iron Brass, Kauri, Cedar, Rimu, and Mottled Kauri ; with Wardrobes, Drawers, Wash stands, and Tables to match. Dining and Drawing-room Suites to suit all classes. Several new designs in Linoleum not seen before in the city ; Oil Cloths, all widths. Carpets measured for, cut out, and laid, and Goods delivered Free of Charge to any part of the town. Catalogues sent Post Free. Ladies and gentleman about to Furnish are invited to stroll through ths "Arcade," where, in addition to House- Furnishing Goods, will be seen Drapery, Clothing, Millinery, and Fancy Goods. — Hollo way, Garlick, and Cranwell, Proprietors, City Hall Arcade, Queen-steet Auckland.



A,» LINABU RY & (J DRESSMAKERS and MILLINERS. NEW DRESS MATERIALS. A Large Assortment of New Dress Goods or tho present Season, in e\ cry fashionable shade, Just Opened up at A. LTNABURY & CO 'S. NEW WINTER COSTUMES, NEW MANTLES, NKW ULSTERS, NEW MILLINI.RY, NEW HATS A Large Assortment of Paris Trimmed Hats and Bonnets Just Opened up. Also, Hosiery, Silk Ti.s, Umbrellas, Collars and Outfs, Gloves, Chilare s Mantles and Jackets. Also, A LARGE STOCK OF NOVELTIES, Which are Cheap, and will have quick sale. __" Look in at A. LINABURY & CO.' S, 201 &206, QUKKN-STREI.T, Auckland.



Although the law has becu frequently and successfully invoked against the counterfeiters of Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps, their cupidity has again overcome their prudence. Imitations of this famous me dicinal beverage are being put up by unprinci pled parties in empty bottles ol the genuine article, and the labels imitated. Be cautious. purchasers. Full value for our money is our right, no mat ter of whatsoever kind, the article may bo that we purchase. The inestimable blessing of being restored to health by the use of honest and reli able medicines, can be procurod by a modorato outlay, the reputation gained for "Ghollah's Great Indian Cures" since their introduction into New Zealand, warrants tho assertion that they have not their equal as reliable restorative agents. (See testimonials, aud get the medicines of any chemist.) Relief from Cough in Ten Minutes.— SHARLAND'S CHERRY PECTORAL, 2s. 6d. a Bottle.—Opposite the Postoillce, Auckland.