SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

~,. .1 n-AT:rr> (This Afternoon, 11.61 XilUJl -V__.i_J._-—)To_niorrow Morning, - SUN SET.—This Evening, 6.0 FUN RT---.—To-morrow .^orni .?, 6.13 MOON'S AGE.-Last quarter, 26th, _.__ ami.

ARRIVALS.

Hawci, s.s., from Napier a^d the Pouth Taranaki. s.s.. from Taranaki and the South (in

the Manukau) Sovereign of ihe Seas, ketch, from Noumea (New Caledonia)

DEPARTURES.

PRn.IFCTED DEPARTURES

For S.n Franci-co—City of Sydney R.M.s., c-a ly For London—Lorraine, barque, early; Chili, sir p. early For Sidney and Melbourne—Hero, s.s., April 5. For Tauranga and the South—Hawea, 28th For Sydney—Rotorua, s.s.. April 2 For Taranaki and the South—Taranaki, s.s., to morrow

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Wo.vcrmo, H.M.S., from Lyttelton Papphire, 11.M.5., from Samoa, early Leucadia ship, from London, early Queen of the West, ship from London. Mendoza, barque <Q._.L.F.}, from London,

sailed Dec. 15th. Cra.geo Le-=, barque {W.H.K.8.), from London, City of Sydney, R.M.S., from Sydney, early Bella Mary, barque, from Hobart Town P.ari, ketch, from Rarotonga 'Sophia R. Luhrs, barque, from New York Ryn ?, brigantine, from the Islands Fiery Cross, schooner, from Lyttelton, early. Gael, schooner, £pnm Dunedin Steiia.Gov.-.?., from Lyttelton (in the Manu

Icaul early Linda Weber, schooner, from Lyttelton, early

IMPORTS.

Per Sovereign of the Seas, from Noumea: — 130 . acks maizs, 33 sacks oat 3, and a quantity of lime stone.

Per Hawea, from the South: 3 pkg-.—Hender- son & Macfarlane. i case.—Owen and Graham.

EXPORTS.

Per Maud Graham, for Lyttelton: 62,000 feet timher.

A brig inside Tiri was signaled when we went to nresa.

•The steamer Transit was brought down from "Vv airoa river to-day. The schooner idinnehaha cleared at the Customs this afternoon for Lyttelton with a car.ro of doors and deals.

The s.s. Taranaki arrived from the South thi3 morning. Passengers :—Misses Moore, Senior, Mendel-chn, Gower, Mcintosh, Clarkson, Brye-, Shariand, 2 natives. Mr and Mrs Ren shawe, Mr Baber, Mrs Meesnn, Mrs Smith, ?.iessrs Tavlor, Hale, Thompson.Phillip?. Frazer Parfitt, Donaher. and 11 steerage. The cargo consists of hops, butter, and general merchan dise.

The schooner Minnehaha, after taking in a cargo of white deal timber from the ship Chile, hauied alongside the Railway Wharf to day, to take in wat r. Sec.

The schooner Eilerton having discharged her cargo of grain, -was taken over to the Gere-street jetty to-day, to have the damage to her masts and rigging, caused on her voyage from Timaru to this port, repaired. The French barque Rene has been chartered for three trips from Dunedin to Hokianga for timber, after which she is to undergo extensive repairs. The schooner Reward left Napier for Auck land on the 14th. to load with timber.

The s.s. lona leaves for Russell this evening with cargo and passengers. The p.s. Hauraki arrived at Waitara, from Onehunga, yesterday.

The ship Fontenaye ha 3 occupied the berth vacated by the baroue Sea Toller. The s.s. Rotomahana has had her bottom cleaned on the hard, ann she will therefore re sume her trips to the Thames this evening. "Ihe schooner Gael is now on her way from Dmtedin to this port. The s.s. Kowena. which arrived in harbour on Saturday afternoon, from Tauranga. brought a cargo consisting of fifty sacks maize and sundries, and the following passengers: Mes dames Howard. Macky. Byers. Ferguson and child, Mr and Mrs Salt, Messrs. Hunt, 'lindail, Reynolds, Recce, and 3 natives. The s.s. Hawea arrived in harbour 'ast even ing from Tauranga, ZSTapier, and Southern po-ts, with a full cargo and about 65 passengers. She left Dunedin on the _f.ernoon of the 18th, and experienced fine weather up the coast. Passen gers : Saloon—Misses Schultze, Corrilli. Lake, Maunsell, Messrs. Sntton. Web3ter, Holland, Richardson. Lees. Well wood, Cook, Wheeler, Bailey, -Kilgour, Messrs. F. J. Moss, M.H.R., Keals, Firth, Burt, Bond, Butcher, Flint, Lake. Home, SnttCD, Hankey, Fallon, Snell, Harley, Hardy, Saulsbury, Meadon Gourlay, Webster, Holland, Brown, "VVellwood (2) and servant, Fraser, Hawker, Patterson, Brown, Hamilton, Human Chatfleld, Fvans, Norman. Elder. Bailey, Badkin, Rev Mr Fraser; and 12 in.the steerage. A large party of ladies and gentlemen pro ceeded on a fishing excursion to the Reef on Saturday in the p.s. Te Arola. A very pleasant afternoon was spant by all on board, and a large number of fish caught. The ketch Sovereigh of the Seas arrived on Saturday night from Noumea, New Caledonia, after a passage of 21 days. The passage from this port to Noumea was made in 10 days. '1 he Sovereign left Noumea on February 28th, and shortly after her departure she encountered a strong S.E. gale, which necessitated the vessel being hove to for three days. Since then, had fair weather, and sighted the Three Kings on the I7th. Put into the Bay of Islands for pro visions on Tuesday, and left again for Auckland on Thursday, anivingas above. The Sovereign of the Seas brings two passengers—Mr and Mrs Cox—and a cargo of maize, oats, &c. The ship Lanarkshire, from London, arrived at Wellington yesterday, after a passage of 103 days.

H.M.S. "Wolverine left Lyttelton on Saturday for thi3 port, and the G.G. s.s. Stella on Saturday for the -Manukau.

The schooner Linda Weber is loading with grain at Lyttelton for Auckland. The schooner Advance, from Gisborne, bound to Dunedin. put into Lyttelton on the 16th, owing: to the c_ptain suffering from a severe attack of bronchitus. The mission schooner Southern Cross, Captain Bongard, entered outwards at the Customs to day for a cruise to Norfolk Island. She will leave on Monday next. The vessel was brought up to the Railway Wharf to-day, to take in provisions, &c. Entered Inwards. —Three Brothers, cutter, from Tryphena, with 50 tons firewood, 3 kegs and 3iars honey, 11 boxes fruit, 7 turkeys, 1 bag onions; Ellen, cutter, from the Sandspit, with 10,000 feet timber.

Gem, schooner, from Coromandel, in ballast; Maid of the Mill, ketch, from Omaha, with 16.000 feet timber.

Cleared Outwards.—Firefly, schooner, for Wangaproa, with 1,000 bricks and 2.000 feet timber; Gem, schooner, for Russell; Maid of the Mill, ketch, for Waiwera, in ballast; On ward schooner for Russell, in ballast.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under.—

ForFTbames, this day, at 5 p.m. and 5,30 p.m and to-morrow at 8 a.m. and 5.30 p.m.

For Coromandel, per Durham, to-morrow at 11.30 a.m.

For Russell, Wangaroa, andMongonui, per lona,

this day, at 4 p.m. For Whitianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per

Rowena, this day, at I p.m. For Waiwera, Kawau, Omaha, and Matakana,

per Annie Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Taranaki, to-morrow, at 10.55 a.m. For money orders, registered letters and newspapers, at.9.55 a.m. 'Late letters till 11.15 a.m.

For Tairua, per Coralie, to-morrow, at 2 p.m. For Tryphena, per Three Brothers, to-morrow,

- at 2 p.m. For Tryphena, per Three Brothers, to-morrow,

at 2 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarai, and • Mangapai, per Argyle, to-morrow, at 4 p,m. Per s.s. Hawea, on Thursday, 28th instant, as follows:—

For India, China, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 2 p.m. For Tauranga. Gisborne, Naper, Southern Provinces, Australian Colonies, United King dom, via Suez aud 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 oppor tunity offer supplementary mails will be for warded.

For Norfolk Island, per Southern Cross, on

Monday, Ist April, at 9 a.m. For Australian Colonies, per Rotorua, on Tues

day, 2nd April, at 1 p.m. Per s.s. City of Sydney; on Tuesday, April 2nd as follows :—

For Sandwich Islands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 3 p.m.

For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe at 3 p.m. For money orders, registered letters aud newspapers, at 1,30 p.m. Late letters bearing an extra ff_ of sixpence in addition to the post age will be received by the Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing.

S. B.BISS. Chief Postmaster

BIRTH.

BLAIR.—On the 23rd March, 187S, at her resi dence, Elliott-street, Auckland, New Zealand, Mrs. A. J. Blair, of a daughter.

CAMPTON.—Cn the 23rd March, IS7B. at hex residence, Wellesley-sireet, Auckland, New Zealand, the wife of Mr. Edward Campton, of a daughter. Mother and infant doing well.

PRINCE.—On the 23rd March, 1878, at her resi dence, Wellington-street, Auckland, New Zealand, the wife of Mr. C. 11. Prince, of a daughter.

WILSON.—On the 21th March, at Gisborne, the wife of Mr. Samuel Mason Wilson, of a boa.

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

MONDAY, MARCH 25, 1878.

rT_r &js ciin- t_s_ i*Lct_ _ss!st£_c4, f.-.r C'.e r.tcz-x th_t r.ccib i!_!_t__S«, . w tic ;.-.—iri bi the distance.

A LONDON cable message received to-day announces that the question of the Con ference is still undetermined. Earl Derby stated that unless Russia is prepared to fcubmit the whole terms, it would be better that the Conference should not meet. He, however, contradicts the report that Russia has refused to accede; the

answer has not vet been returned

In another column we publish a number of letters upon the attitude taken up by the Good Templar Order towards Working Men's Club... The subject appears to have excited some interest, and lias several rather curious bearings. The argu ments put forward by our correspondents in support of the Templar case .should, there fore, be duly weighed. Some of the side issues rai_ed are, perhaps, hardly woith noticing. Mr Hill expresses astonishment that " a Good Templar should have applied to a non-Templar" for instruction iv his duties. In this, as in some other things, Mr Hill assumes too much. How can he be sure that a non-Templar was applied to, or what evidence does he possess that the STAB has not been law fully initiated into this as into all other mysteries? The best proof that our corres pondent applied to the right quarter is the fact that he was at once tarnished with the ruling of the Grand Lodge on the subject. The secrecy of the Order, after all, is a very harmless fictipn ; its rituals have frequently been exposed for sale for a few pence en Auckland book-stalls. With reference to the second dogma formulated by the same -writer, it would appear fiom the putting of the question relative to Working Men's Clubs at the last session of the Order in Wellington, after the G.W.C.T. had de clined to decide, that the conscience of every Templar was not so clear upon the subject as our correspondent appears to be. The comparison drawn between a Working Men's Club and a firm trading in liquor is simply an absurdity. In a Club, a number of men combine for the sole purpose of pro curing at the lowest possible rates certain comforts required by each. The rubs of the club absolutely prohibit any but mem bers from purchasing, if their contribu tions in any year exceed the requirements of the establishment, a proportion of the money they over-pay will no doubt be returned to them. A teetotaller, confining himself to tea, coffee, aud non-intoxicating drinks, would be the largest contributor to such a surplus, because the margin ot profit on these drinks is much greater than upon beer or spirits. The only profit which a member may reap, however, is identical with that which a man who boards with twenty more derives as compared with the man who keeps house for himself. He gets his comforts at a cheaper rate, but surely no sensible man confounds this with a trader's profit. The rules of the Good Templar Order do not brand as a rene gade one of their members for taking a pub lican's money for services rendered, although he thereby does become a participator in the gains of the liquor traffic ; nor would a Templar violate his vow by availing himself of the accommodation of an hotel; why then the hard line which is drawn at Working Men's Club 3 ? That any reasonable temperance pledge would be nobly fulfilled by a teetotaller who, as a member of a Club, discountenances by precept and example tho use of intoxicants, shewing at the same time how a man may rationally enjoy himself with out their aid, seems so indisputable as to be beyond the range of discussion. The reasons urged by the Rev 8. Edger are of a more logical and practical charac ter. If Working Men's Clubs had been found by experience to promote drinking habits, the opposition of the Good Templars would doubtless be well grounded. The advocates of these Clubs maintain that the results are altogether the other way, that the "Club supplies the rest and relaxation for which the working man has now to depend solely^ upon the publi.-house, without imposing upon him an onus to drink. This object is so manifestly assured iv the constitution of a Club that we are curious to see any tangible evidence that the experience has been of a character so contrary to that which might reasonably have been expected. Rule XI. of the Auckland Working Men's Club provides that no intoxicated person, whether mem ber, officer, or servant, shall be allowed in any part of the premises of the Club, and any person who has so misconducted him self shall cease to attend the Club until the Committee ha_ determined whether he shall be retained as a member. If tee totallers, however, while furnishing nothing better, stand aloof, and piously ejaculate "Unclean unclean," the member ship of a Working Men's Club will exhibit simply a fair average of non-abstainers, and the capibilities of these institutions as aids to temperance will not be fairly tested. The question of making provision for work ing women in connection with institutions of this kind—as everyone acquainted with their aims should know—is an intrinsic part of the plan, and has, in various parts of England been most success fully developed. We aie glad to observe from a discussion at the Dunedin Working Men's Club, that this branch of the scheme is kept in view, and we hope that the Auck land Club will not lose sight of it. The Rev. S. Edger must be aware that the tendency to draw men away from their homes is au evil charged again.-1 the lodge-room as well as against the CluL^ It is useless to reply that the lodge-room is open to women ; a working woman, ,vith a family of small children to look after, has neither time nor opj ortuuity to avail herself of the privilege. But men will go away from home, and it is advisable to recognise

the fact, and supply them with some place of resort Jother than the public-house aud the street. All things considered, the hasty discision of the Grand Lodge with reference to these Clubs is very greatly to be regretted, as it withdraws members of tho Order from a sphere of active usefulness, and deprives them of the right to enjoy the innocent comforts of a much required institution, which many will now probably join in defiance of the lodge. Of course, if it is the opiuion of the Graud Lodge that Good Templars must be treated as children, and kept in leading-strings lest they should do something naughty, the wisdom of its resolution cannot be gain said.

The earth closet system is likely to be adopted iv Dunedin. The report of the Duuedin Senatary Committee on the 15th inst. was to be the following effect: —That all water-closets and cesspits within the city be abolished as soon as possible, and that a pan system, similar to that in operation in Melbourne and Christchurch, be introduced and rendered compulsory within the city. Consideration waa deferred until next sitting of the Council.

Experiments are being carried out in Prussia, by order of the German military authorities, to determine how far it may be practicable "to employ tho telephone for military purposes.

Our Panmure correspondent writes : — " Our quiet settlement is continually improving. The roof is oil our new school, and preparations are being made for a grand opening concert. "We have several young ladies, gifted with sweet voices and a love of music, who have promised to appear at the concert. The farmers' wives have come to a unanimous resolution to keep no more geese, simply because it is impossible to keep them out of the clutches of the phantom boatman, who catches the geese, and slopes away with them through tiie mist of the evening into the water, and like " Heme the Hunter," described by Ainsworth in his romance of "Windsor Castle." Constable Moar is very vigilant in Ms path of duty, and fancies the spectral boatman has a taegible body, which ere long may sensibly touch. The crops are looking well, tho Panmuro potatoes are unsurpessed, the leaves are beginning to change, nature generally is putting on her autumnal garb, aud fresh butter is getting scarce. The only incident of an exciting character of recent occurrence was the loss of a pig's head from Mr McPherson's shop, on Saturday evening. The thief popped it under her shawl and bolted across the green, but her pursuer was too nimble-footed lor her, and having returned tho head to the storekeeper, she was allowed to depart in peace."

Rev. J. S. Hudson will deliver a lecture on Wednesday evening, tho 27th instant, in the Devonport Hall. Subject: "Our Identity with the Lost Tribes of Israel."

St. Paul's Cathedral Church was crowded last evening. Rev. C- M. Nelson delivered his third Lenten discourse on " Out Talents," the subject being " Influence," and tho text from Philippians, c. 2, v. 4 : " Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."

_dr Frank Smith, as au eye witness a' the brewery lire, writes stating that grea; credit is due to Mis and Miss McLaughlin Miss Wooley, Miss Kent, and Miss Burke who deserve special thanks for their assist ance in saving property.

The English Thames formed Mr Clifford's entertainment in the Albert Hall, on Satur day eveuing, but was thinly attended. The views were exceedingly good, embracing the most interesting spots by tho river side. The views of places below Oxford give a

capital idea of Ihe rural scenory of English country life. Tho whole was pleasing and entertaining.

Mails for Australian Colonies, pet Alhamba, will close at Hokitika at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, the 26th March.

A former chief inspector of the Orleans and Rouen railway has found the means of putting in constant communication, by means of electricity, trains whilst in motion with the station-, and also trains with each other whilst travelling in the same direction on different lines, without even slackening their speed. The apparatus for conveying tho signals will be placed in tho guard's van, and consequently will not be influenced by stormy weather or fog.

The " Poverty Bay H erald" begins a lead ing article on the Ministry iv tho following terms -.—" The " Premier Dramatic Com pany" is now playing to crowded houses on the West Coast; aud if one may beliere the Press Agency telegrams, Signor Grey and Professor Sheehan have proved au immense " draw" for the management. Tl.e stump ing has been received by crowded and de lighted houses nightly, with rapturous ap plause. The company is shortly to appear in Ota&o, when there will Do an entire change of programmo."

The anniversary soiree and public meet ing of the Alexandra - street Primitivo Methodist Church will beheld this evening. Tea on tho table at half-past six o'clock. The public meeting, over which Dr. Kcnderdine will preside, will open at half past seven. Interesting addresses by ministers aud friends will be given.

We learn that the settleis of the district of Waitakerei are taking steps towards the erection of a public hail for the gereial purposes of the locality, and Mr Smith, on behalf of ths settlors, will make the ueces saiy application to Government for a grant of land in a central spot, whereon to build the Waitakerei Public Hall.

The subject, "Ib the foreign policy of Lord Beacons-ckl worthy of admiration," will be considered at a meeting of the Sc. James' Mutual Improvement Association this evening. Mr W. Gorrie will open in the affirmative, and Mr Schmidt will speak in the negative. The Provincial Lunatic Asylum report for the week ending March 23, gives the number of inmates as 16S, viz., males 122, females SS.

The 25th of March, being Lady Day, is anticipated w*ith very different feelings by different individuals. In many countries it iathe "RentDay/'so graphically delineated by Douglas Jerrold in his drama of the .ame name. In some cases where persons see no possibility of meeting the landlord's inexor able demand, they "moonshino" it to pas tures new. In other cases, the capable tenant is met in the most complaisaut man ner, and receives, in addition to a hue luncheon of turkey, supplemented by Ches hire cheese and home-browed ale, a well written receipt in round hand. Even now, Lady Day at the old mansions of the Duke of Somerset, near Exeter; and Lord Derby, at Kuowsley Hall, are scenes of special in terest, and which is a busy day with the agents of both noblemen.

We understand that Mr John McFarlane Richie ha 3 been appointed to the position of manager of the New Zealand National Mortgage Company. The company has been extremely successful in its business undertakings, aud haa purchased the business of several otheir similar companies. The directory has made a very judicious selection in Mr Richie, who is a gentleman of practical business qualities, and is well fitted for the position to which he has been appointed.

The ordinary monthly meeting of tho Lodge St. Andrew will be held this evening in the Lodge-room, at half-past seven o'clock.

A Press Agency telegram says the Wesleyan minister, the Rev. G. W. Russell, who wrote to a Hokitika paper verifying Father Henneberry's words about mixed marriages, has received a threatening letter signed " A Snake in the Grass." Messrs Cochrane and Sou held a land and and property sale to-day at their land mart, Fort-street, with the following results :— Hamilton West, one acre, £12 10s . Mauku, 70 acres, situated near the bridge, 9s 6d per acre ; Parua Bay, 142 acres, 9s per acre ■ Parish of Owhiwa, Marsden County, 4s per acre ; allotment in Chancery withdrawn. The Lyttelton Harbour Board have decided not to consult Sir Jno. Coode respect ing their Harbour Works.

A fire broke out at a boarding-house in Wellington yesterday morning, about half past iivo. Several lodgers had narrow escapes, and* nearly all lost their clothes. The building was insured in various offices or a total of £1,600

A telegram from Tauranga the other day stated that a match had been made between the boats Sis and Tomboy, the winner at the regatta, but that Tomboy had backed out. We are informed by Mr Reynolds, owner of the latter boat, that this is untrue, no match was made.

OPERA CONCERT.

The Italian Opera Concert Company, who were assisted by the orchestra of the Choral Society, gave a final entertainment of notable excellence at the theatre on Satur day evening. The overture from " Semira niide," excellently played by the orchestra, opened the concert, after which the various artistes gave vocal selections from the works of Guonod, Flotow, Mozart, Meyer beer, and Verdi. M. Caron, as usual, delighted every one with his solos on the violiu, and meeting with an enthusiastic encore for the " Souvenir a'Haydyn, kindly played " Home Sweet Home." The lead ing features of the vocal part of the enter tainmeut were the duets from Dinorah, by Signoras Vita and Venosta; "II Mio Tesoro," by S. Camero ; and the quartette " Good-night," from "Martha." The last act of Terra-is ''Pipele" brought the perfor mance to a brilliant close. The company are particularly desirous to return thanks publicly to the Choral Society for the patronage and assistance so generously and kindly accorded ou Saturday evening. To night the company appear at Onehunga.

THE SALSBURY TROUBADOURS.

All who enjoy a thoroughly good laugh, and are not too particular ho wit is provoked, ought, if we are to believe ourSouthcrn con temporaries, to pay a visit without fail to the "Salisbury Troubadours," who open at the Theatre Royal to-night. Their enter tainment docs not pretend to be cither in tellectual or educational, but it is amusing, graceful and witty, at least so we are told. Surely this is enough for the Aueklanders, who did not shew any very great appieciation of our Italian cousins' concerts last week. The music is incidental, and will consequently be extremely varied. The performance this evening will consist entirely of "Patchwork" which the Com pany have played 1,500 times.

DEPARTURE OF THE GOVERNOR FOR WAIKATO.

His Excellency the Governor, accom panied by Lady Normanby, Lord Henry Phipps (A.D.C.,) Captain Maling (Private Secretary), Lieutenant La Patonvel (A.D.C.),' and the Hon. Colonel Wiiitmore (Colonial Secretary), proceeded to the Waikato thismoruin'g by aspecial train. They will visit the principal settlements in the Waikato district.

ACCIDENT ON THE CHASCA.

A_? accident of a serious nature occurred this afternoon on board the barque Chasea, to a young man named Marriott, who is en gaged as side waiter on board the vessel. It appears that he was coming through the hatchway while in the performance of his duties, and fell back into the hold, his body striking heavily on some casks below. A cab was obtained, and the injured man taken to the Hospital. The exact nature of his injuries has not yet been ascertained.

CABLEGRAMS.

Esrl Derby 02. t_i_ Peaca G-__&_t_o__3_

T_io Demands of __i___.i&__d_

[REUTEE'S SPECIAL TELEGRAMS.]

LONDON", March 22

Earl Derby stated that the Govern ment had not demanded the admission of Greece to-the Congress on the same footing as the guaranteeing Powers, but had only asked for her a hearing.

He also said Russia had not replied to England's request regarding the submission of the whole of the peace conditions to the Congress. Unless Russia were willing to submit them, he thought it would be better that there should be no Congress.

TEXT OF THE TREATY OF PEACE.

LONDON, March 21

The " Times "has published n summary of the official text of tho Treaty of Peace. It consists of 26 articles, which agree in substanco with the recent versions. The war indemnity is 1,410,000,000 roubles 1,100,000.000 to be accepted in the shape of: territory, leaving a payment of 300,000,003 roubles subject to arrangement.

THE LONDON PRESS ON THE VICTORIAN CRISIS.

LONDON, March 21, 4.5 p.m. Official di.spatche.s_ respecting tho con stitutional conflict in Victoria just pub lished, shew that the Governor's action has throughout been supported by the Colonial Office. The --Times" says that it is clear that Lord Carnarvon's September telegram, advising Sir G. Bowen to follow the advice of Ministers, was dictated in ignorance of some material facts. Tin's telegram shaped the whole of the Governor's subsequent conduct. Sir M. H. Beach continues tbe policy of his predecessor. The " Times " declares that the question raised in Victoria must be decided by the Imperial Parliament, to iclicve other Colonial Governors.

[SPECIAL TO PRESS AGENCY.]

LONDON, March 21. In reply to Lord Kimberley, Lord Cardigan said he had a telegram from Sir G. Bowen, duted the 15th, stating that the compromise waa still unsettled, and that money was legally available for carry ing on the Government till the end of June.

Australian Telegrams.

(PER ALBION AT HOKITIKA.)

Extensive Flood in Melbourne,

Access to Warehouses by Boats

Religious Riot in Sydney.

Remarkable Rebellion in a School

[PRESS AGENCY.]

MELBOURNE, March 20th. Heavy floods have occurred in the suburbs, causing considerable damage to property. It rained heavily from Thursday to Saturday, during which four inches fell. The Yarra rose so rapidly that in a few hours it overflowed its banks, and all the low-lying lands adjacent was speediiy submerged. All buildings—mostly stores, on the south bank of the Yarra were surrounded, and communi - cation was only obtained by a boat, and 'hen only with difficulty owing to the rapid current. Traffic on the south side of Princes Bridge was suspended for 14 hours, iv consequence of the water running over. On the St. Kilda road, the whole stretch of

land as far as the eye could reach was one expanse of water. One life was lost, a Chinaman, drowned in a hut, Upper Yarra. The flood is not within four feet of the great flood of IS6S, but the water rose much more rapidly" A number of persons had not time to save their goods. Many only escaped with their lives, with diffi culty.

There was a most serious occrurence a few nights ago. The boys in the reformatory school, Coburg, mutinied, and for an hour kept a largo number of warders at bay. Blank cartridge was fired at them, but to no purpose. At length the door of the dormitory was smashed in with an axe; and an entrance gained. Some rather ugly wounds were received on both sides, no cause is assigned for the outbreak.

Several failures have occurred in the grain trade. S. House and Co., who liabilities are £64,440; W. Kaintird, miller, Kynton, is said to be £4,000 ; H. R. Carter, £_2,000. Mr John Coode leave, for New Zealand per Tararua on Wednesday week. The building of the new Eastern Market has been commenced, iind'will cost £80,000 when completed.^

SYDNEY, March 20.

The Chimborazo, while oa the passage from Melbourne, struck on the rocks at Point Perpendicular, and put back to Jervis Bay, with the fore compartment full of water.

A slight riot occured on Sunday night, owing to sectarian preaching of Pastor Allan in Hyde Park. A large crowd collected. Missiles were thrown at the police. They charged with batons, and hit pretty freely. The steamer Easby ran down the schooner Northern Light inside the Heads. The schooner sank, but the crew were saved.

The case of Manning v. xsew Zealand Insurauce Company lasted a fortnight, and resulted in a "verdict of £7,000 for the plaintiff. _^

TELEGRAPHIC.

(From Our Own Correspondent)

GRAHAMSTOWN, this day.

MINING.

Moanatairi. —Lang's tribute has 14ozs lSdwts from 10 tons stone.

The big tunnel was driven 19 feet last week.

Kuranui Hill. —Trewren's tribute has lOozs 7dwts from 12 tons. Robinson's tribute has a trial lot of lgozsfrom 3 tons. The Nonpareil United on Saturday, has obtained a few pounds of rich specimens from the new leader 3 inches thick in solid country. It is supposed to be a dropper from the main reef. THE GOVERNOR. The Governor sent a note to the Mayor, expressing gratification with his enthusiastic reception, aud enclosed £5 for the Hospital and £5 for the Ladies' Benevolent Society.

COROMANDEL, this day.

HARBOUR VIEW.

Tiie Mine Manager reports that 20ft of stoping on the leader has been done during the week. The leader looks well, and is about 6 inches in thickness. Gold has been seen in blocks 1, 2, aud 3, when breaking down, but no specimens. The Mine Mana ger deposited 251bs oi specimens iv the bank on Saturday morning.

ALEXANDRA, this day.

KINGITE MOVEMENTS.

King Tukaroto arrived here yesterday, and was interviewed by Te Wheoro. It is decided that a meeting with Sir George Grey, the Native Minister, be held shortly. Te Wheoro accompanied the King and family and Te Ngakam on thieir return to Kikuraiigi this morning to meet the Mokau natives, who have arrived here.

[PRESS] AGENCY.]

PORT CHALMERS, this day.

SHIPMENTS OF CHINAMEM.

Arrived yesterday, barque Marie, vrithS4 Chinese and a large general cargo from Hongkong. The ship Western Monarch, from Loudon, after a9l days' passage. She brings 20 passengers, and 2,000 tons cargo. On February 25th, when rounding Cape of Good Hope, lat. 40 S., encountered strong N.W. gale at 1 a.m., and shortened sail. While doing so Alfred Hammerton, apprentice, J_t.ll from aloft, and was drowned.

PATE A, this day. SETTLEMENT OF NATIVE DIFFI-

CULTIES

On Friday, tho natives who had lately ob structed thesurveyat Waitotara, and others interested, met Major Brown at Carlyle. Active opposition having been withdrawn, all day was occupied iv discussion; and it seems it was very exciting, with no good re sults, the natives being unable to agree amongst themselves whether to accept the money offered, or insist upon their right to 50,000 acres of confiscated lands. The meeting was resumed on Saturday. Civil Commissioner Brown was willing to distribute about £3,000, but held that hin drance to survey aud destruction of bridges had cost the Government £400, whichhe in tended to deduct. Late on Saturday terms

were agreed upon, and an instalment of money paid. The Waitotara trou bles being thus ended, the Manutahi aud Mokoia uativcs, who for a long time had refused to forego their claim to land, also met Major Brown and receive*d the sum allotted to them, and were seemingly satisfied that further opposition would only place them in a worse position. The settlement of these two troublesome questions will materially aud beneficially influence operations respecting the Waimate plains, and Europeans are feeling more _ecure.

WELLINGTON, this day. Sailed : Welliagton, for Picton, Nel'sor, New Plymouth, and Manukau, Pas sengers : Misses Beauchamp, Cox, Bridge ; Capt. Chambers, and Mr Ottcrsou.

CHRISTCHURCH, Saturday. The following weights for the principal events at the Canterbury Autumn meeting may interest our sporting readers: — Steeplechase : Eclipse, 12st; Tommy Dodd, list 121bs ; Banjo, list lOlbs. Ivanhoe, list 71bs; Shillelagh, list 51bs; Mousetrap, list .lbs ; Cannon Ball, list; the Druid, lOst Tibs.

Great Autumn Handicap : Templeton, os_ Slbs ; Ariel, 9st 31bs ; Trump Card, Sst Slbs; Mata, 7st lib; Danebury, Sst; Bribery, 7st 121bs ; Titania, 7st I2lbs ; Pungawerewcre, 7st 91bs ; Rangier, 7st Sib; Puriri, 7st 51bs; Longland3, 7st 31bs; Venus Transit, 7st lib ; Izaak Walton, 7st; Foul Play, 7st; Hippocampus, 7st; Bide a-wee, 6st ISlbs; Rangier, Gst 121bs; Mircll, Gst 12fb3; Songster, Gst lOlbs; Maritana, 6st lOlbs ; Ngaro, 6st Slbs ; Orange Light ning, 6st 51bs : Standard-bearer, 6st 51bs _ Ratcatcher, 6st 51bs; Multi, Gst 21bs; Pinfiie, Gst 2lbs ; Oberon, 6st; Waita, 6st; Chancellor, Euna, Satellite, Colleen, and Undine, each sst 12lbs.

POLICE COURT.—THIS DAY.

(Before R. C. Barstow, Esq., R.M.) INEBRIATES. Mary Anne Gillam and John limes were each fined 10s and costs for being drunk, and James Matthews was fined 5s and costs for a similar offence. PROFANE. Patrick Gibbons pleaded guilty to makino use of profane language iv "the public streets.

Sub-Inspector Pardy said the prisoner had used most blasphemous language close to the minister who was preaching at the head of the wharf on Sunday evening. Fined 40s and costs. AN UNNATURAL PARENT.

George Ray was charged with failing to pay for the support of his child in the Industrial School.

_ The accused denied being the father of the child and said no one but the Police had ever said he was.

Inspector Pardy remarked that Ray pleaded guilty to the paternity of the boy :n the Police Court a year ago. Sergeant Mulville was called to prove this fact after which the case was remanded till 3 o'clock.

"AN ABSENT MAN."

Fredk. Kroksted pleaded guilty to beiug absent without leave from the Seatollei. At the request of the captain the man was put on board.

c n °H.AMPA<M«S SARAS. Sarah Clarke was charged with „ • bad language in Wellesley-street on m^ $ 22nd, 1878. J *0U MaicJ| s Prisoner pleaded not guilty «,__ * for n remand till her husband' coufl up from Wellington. tUd come Sub-Inspector Pardy said prisoner had __. witnesses and begged that the caseSE be proceeded with. ""gat Miss Clarke told a touching story of V troubles m Auckland, weeping copSslv Sub-inspector Pardy «ddS_r£^' a nice character. The other ni-ht ,i police found her swearing on a dooraten _. a state of nudity. Her story was a verJ'J* '* one. Mr Clarke was a respectable man . Wellington, and had beenWreuielythu to his wife who neyevthelcss was constant.?-' drunk, and led an improper life **ul-_r '•NOT IX THESE BOOTS; OH 'NO ■" John Hill pleaded guilty to steali. _ pair of boots, value Bs., the property of°T Little, on Saturday night. J +' Inspector Pardy said there was another charge against the prisoner, and asked that the case might be remanded. c Remand granted. ALLEGED LARCENY AND I_.CEDUr.is M B Gertrude Warren, a lady like woman" neatly dressed, was charged with stealing £b0 worth of goods, the property of Adoln Laurie, and also of setting fite to Hasslet-, boarding house. When put in the box prisoner turned deadly pale, and before anyone could catc her fell down in a dead faint. She was carried out of Court by two officers and sprinkled with water. Dr Haydes, -who had-been summoned hurriedly, rendered valuable assistance, and in half-an-honr Miss Warren was able to hear the char^ei read.

The case was remanded till Friday.

DISTRICT COURT—This Day.

(Before F. D. Fenton Esq., District Judo. I GEORGE REV ELL V. HENRY TRIMMER* Claim £25 Is 6'd. Mr McKechnie for plaintiff stated that the claim was on a promissory note, and interest. The defendant, a resident of Gis bourne, admitted the claim through his solicitor, Mr Ward, aud offered payments of £5 per month, which plaintiff accepted - co3fc £6 ss. WILLIAM LOMBARD V. \V. AND H. NICCO- Claim £70. Mr Brock appaared for plaintiff, and Mr James Lewis proved the debt to be still due and owing. Judgment for the plaintiff, costs £4 18s. RED QUEEN GOLD MIKING COMPANY. (LIMITED.) Mr Alexander applied to the Court for confirmation of a liquidator, Mr Hemy N. Garland, in the. winding up of the compaay, under the provisions of the Act. The preliminary "provisions having been complied with, the Court confirmed the appointment.

GEO. KITCHEN V. SAML. MCCROSKIE.

Claim. £39 10s.

Mr McKechnie for defendant,' asked for an adjournment, to which Mr J. B. Russell objected on the pait of plaintiff, for reasons, stated to the Court.

Mr McKechnie said Iris reason for asking for adjournment was that he m^ght have time to hie a defence, and as both the parties lived in Auckland, the distance would.not affect them.

Mr Russell said his client wanted to go away to the South.

His Honor characterised the conduct of defendant as negligent, as he had three weeks to prepare his defence ; if he were to adjourn the case it would encourage all sorts of negligence, and would be a bad pro cedent.

After some argument, which occupied half-an-hour, it wa3 decided to hear the plaintiff.

Geo. Kitchen deposed that the claim was for rent for premises in Hobson-street, ai 10s per week.

Judgment for plaintiff, costs £4 Is. Mr McKechnie asked that the execution might be stayed until the hearing of the cross-action.

JOHN MOLLER V. N. CAMBELL. Claim, £74 Gs 9d. Mr J. B. Russell for plaintiff, and Mr Duftiur for defendant.

This was a question of account between the parties, the plaintiff being a master mariner, and the defendant a tailor, of Queen-street.

Mr Russell said this case should never have been broughtinto Court, andhe should recommend it to be settled by arbitration.

The plaintiff fiually consented to with draw the case; defendant promising not to bring his cross-action.

GOOD TEMPLARS AND WORKING MENS CLUBS.

(To the Editor of the Evening STAR). Sir, —It may seem ungraceful to treat with indifference or opposition a society like the Working Men's Club, whose pro fessed design is to afford amusement, rest, aud intercourse, to the working men— all of which are unquestionably much needed. I should certainly not have M written this note but for some statements -- made by the speakers at the opening of the ' • Club. If the Bishop of Auckland is cor- M rcctly reported, he appears to accuse Good Templar Lodges, to which he plainly refers, of intemperance in the intercourse of the sexes, of keeping late hours, and of romping. From my position in the Order, " and having considerable knowledge of the Lodges, lam able unhesitatingly to affirm " "that his statement, as a general assertion;, is quite incorrect. As, however, things may take place that do not come under my knowledge, or the Bishop may refer te something outside Good Templary, I think .. . I am entitled to ask him to give more precise information, as it is my duty to see i that such things do not take place in the * Order. If the Bishop knows that they have done so, he can state time and place;. ..... if he does not know it, such words as his "" reported are not justifiable. I can only hope that the Working Men's Club will close at 9.30, as Good" Templar Lodges - generally do. As for romping, I do not know what the Bishop has in his mind; ', and intemperance in tne intercourse of the sexes, he should be quite sure of before he makes such a charge- Beyond this much; fault has been found because it is con sidered ont of harmony with the G.T. obligation to join a Working Mens' Club. I may say that this decision was arrived at, not theoretically, but from some knowledge of what these Clubs practically are. The whole experience of Temperance Reformers accumulated through half a century, tends to the conclusion that while these Clubs will not draw any from public house intemperance, they will to many be tho stepping stone to it; that they will be recruited, not from the public-house, but from the homes of the people. Judge Gillies gave a much-needed caution on this point. Men in these days are none too de voted to their homes. A club that renders them less so, will inflict as cruel au injustice on the women and children as injury on the men themselves. There are few in Auck land who are not sufficiently well-informed to know that any recreation for working men will be purchased much too dearly by any increase of influences that draw them from their homes in the direction of public house licentiousness. While writing this, I repudiate anything like a narrow view of thing 9. Let our conclusions be foundsd on practical experience. That is not iv favour of associations where drink is allowed, and where women are not present. I have heard described the lager-beer gardens of the Ger mans held in some parts of the United State_, where men meet togethor with their entire families, and where, notwithstanding the beer, drunkenness is unknown, ana would not be allowed. Had the Working Men's Club been according to this model,,; the decision of the Grand Lodsre niisrht have

been difftrent. My own opinion certainly would have been different. It is not possi ble to listen to-day to the serious voices that come from benevolent' and .noble-minded men in any direction without beiug made to feel that intemperance ia far too heavy *

EVENING STAR MONDAY MARCH 35, 18.8.



ODOVER SEEDS, (j LOVER SEEDS. . J'JS't TO HiND, EX ' APELT.ES.' OUR FIRST SHIPMENT NEW SEASON'S OLOVKR SEEDS, ""*' : CONSISTING OS" White Clover Timothy Red Clover Rnpe Cow Grass Trefoil Alsyko Sec, Sec, Sec. Turnip AND A Fine Collection of Farm and Garden Skidds. also, A Shipment of American Timothy. Samples of the above Seeds will be forwarded on application. Poverty Bay, Canterbury, and local Rye Grass, Cocksfoot, Ratstail, Poas Fescues, &c. &c, from carefully selected samples, at lowest mar ket rates. W. J. HURST & CO., , Queen-street.



Q. KA N D QFF E R BY THE AMUiICAN NOVELTY COMPANY. Tho following articles will be sent by Mail to an]- p_rt of New Zealand on receipt of £1:— 1 Brook's G!a__ Cutter, Tin Opener, Knife and Scissors Sharpeser 4/ 1 Banaxa Erult and Vegetable, Pairing, Slicing, and Coring Knife.. .-. .. 1/6 1 Champion Nutmeg Grater. Save your fingers 16 1 Dish-washing and ToasiingTong .. ... 2/ 1 Smoker's Pet. Meerschaum pipe eclipsed 1/ 1 Folding Lamp Shadu iP.itent) 1/6 1 Indelible Tahler for Marking Linen .. 2/ 1 Litt'e Giant Tack Hammer, drives, draws, and sots .. .. ..' .. .. .. 1/6 1 Little Harry's Night Lamp 1/0 I Magic Cork Puller, Chimney Cleaner, Sec 1/ 1 Oriental Silver Polish. Great success .. 1/ 1 Pattern Copying and Tracing Wheel .. 1/6 1 Pearl Cement. Mends everything. Save tho pieces 2/ 1 Puzzle Key Ring 1/ I Shir.o-Shino Starch Polish and Chinese Washing Blue l/_ 1 Siuto Pencil Sharpener and Cieaner .. /6 1 Good Templar Pen. with Jr-pint of ink .. 16 Uiaco'-int off of Total £1 A G R ICULTURAL RISKS. lIIE NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY Is prepared to INSURE against FIRE— Agricultural Risk 3, Grain in Stook or Stack, - and Steam Threshing Machines travelling from ' dlace to place. LOWEST CURRENT RATES. : HENRY E. WILLIAMS, y ifT N 1 (. N INSURANCE COMPANY «U OF » . , NEW ZEALAND. j APITAL f.2,WQ,m. UCK L A h~D BItAN CII : 1 Q U ]_ E N - S T R- E E T, Next tho Colonial Bank. ..IRE DEPARTMENT. Insuißisc granted on Dwelling-houses, > Stores. Shops. Building, in which trade Is - carried on, Merchandise, and Goods of every description. '. ! MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers. Merchandise of all . kinds, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, AT - owest C-KiiKN'- Rates. ; R. 11. STEVENSON _ Manager. _ __r CITY HAI_I_ "^* '■ Ij 1 trrN.lshijng Arcade. NEW GOODS JUST UNPACKED, ! AUD QUITE NEW. 1 CRETONNES, i Large Lot New Colours and New Designs. /New Brussels, from I 9 " r, <. DDti-i-a J Now Tapestry, from 2/1 OA_-F___-_ ■ Sew Kidderminster, from 3/2 1 .Nov. Hearthrugs, from 6/6 i ('New Siiape Walnut Suites New Reps for do. For the j GreenandCrimsonSilkßep) _?_ ' DRAWING--; Black and Gold do. i-o"~, ROOM. j Fawn and Gold do. )^q I New Pattern Walnut Tables \,New Inlaid Flower Stands 1 12 feet wide, 3/ per yard | FLOOR- J 3 „ 2/ CLOTHS. 1 Oil Canvas, .9 (Linoleum, all widths \ Handsome WhiteTwistandßullionFringes, for Bed Hangings Handsome White Se Fancy Belgian Damask, for do. Turkish Towels, very large size, 1/3 and 1,9 Superior Fancy Oil Baizes, for tables Immense Variety in Ladies' Dress Buttons. ; Hollow-ay, Gft_iic3_ & Oranwell, : City Hall Arcade, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. ; CABINET FACTORY .. LORNE-STREET mo AGRICULTURISTS Se OTHERS W. J. HURST __ CO. have on salo tho under mentioned Fertilizers, ail of which have been proved to produce satisfactory results in this district. Experience teaches that largo and profitable retain- can bo reiied on by a judicious and liberal use of them. The flattering Testi monials from leading Farmers justify V. . J. : Hurst Se Co. in strongly commending them to every Agriculturist:— MAI.DKS ISLAND GUANO PERUVr AN GUANO MEXICAN do. BELLS BONE FLOUR i and J-iuch BONEDUST BILLYARDS No. 1 do. NITRATE OF SODA SULPHATE OF AMMONIA MURIATE OF POTASH SUPER-PHOSPHATE OF LIME. . SALT, SULPHATE OF LIME. 1 In addition to tho above, VV. J. H. Sc Co. are ; prepared to supply special Chemical Manures i for stimulating weak Coin Crops, and renovat ing Clover-sick Pastures, as well as the Potato and Mangold mixture that for the last two sea ! sons has attracted such favourable notice. Analysis, prices, and other particulate will b_ supplied on application at tho Stores. \V. J. HURST & CO., 101, Queen _.treet. A_« LINAB UR V & C 0., DRESSMAKERS and MILLINERS. NEW DRESS MATERIALS. A Large Assortment of New Dress Goods for ' the present Season, in evory fashionable * shade, Just Opened up at A. LINABURY & CO.'S. NEW WINTER COSTUMES, NEW MANTLES, NEW ULSTERS, NEW MILLINERY. NEW HATS. A Large Assortment of Paris Trimmed Hats and Bonnets Just Opened up. Also, Hosiery, Silk Ties, Umbrellas, Collars and Cuffs, Gloves, Children _ Mantles and Jackets. Also, A LARGE STOCK OF NOVELTIES, Which are Cheap, and will have quick sale. gm~ Look ii- at "?_- A. LINABURY & Co.' S, 201 &206, queen-street, Auckland. "IT /.OS GRAVE & pO. WILL HOLD A GREAT CLEARING SALE OF MEN'S AND BOYS' CLOTHING RTO-MORROW. All Goods Reduced to Cost Price Inspection Invited. SUPERIOR SAMPLES of Syd_._y and Now Zealand Maizo, Tartarian and Potato Oats, Table Potatoes, Flour, Oatmeal, Bran, Sharps, Barley, Jhafl, Oilcake Coal, &c, &c, always on hand. W. J; HURST & CO., 101, QUEEN-STREET. AUCKLAND ' i



mHORNTON, SMITH. AND FIRTH'S A PRICES CURRENT (Wholesale)



Subject to alteration without notice. j Sacks. 100's. ___ Brown Brand Flour, £ s. d. £ a. d. £ s. cl. perton ~ .. .. 16 0 0 16 10 0 17 0 0 T.S.&F. Canterbury Brand 14 0 0 11 10 0 15 0 0 Meal for Pig-feed .. 710 0 Sharps 7 10 0 Bran 6 0 0 Fowl Wheat .. .. ss. per bushel. The above prices include sacks and bags; sacks and bags not returnable. Terms: Cash. Maicb 2j, 1878. At their Old Tricks Again*.—lrrcsponsiole speculators are again attempting to foist spur ious rubbish of a hurtful kind upon the public as identical with the celebrated Udolfho Wolfe's Shiedam Aromatic Schnapps. They put their poisonous imitations in tho genuine Schnapps bottles and either counterfeit the label or pretend that the false is as good as the genuine. Take none but the true health beverage. If Rheumatism assail you, or Gout, or Liver Complaint, or a general unhealthy tone, fly at once to your best friend —"Gnotlah's Great Indian Cures," the surest medicines known. They can be had of all chemists.