SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATKU- j 10.36 SUN SKT.—This Evening, 6.0 H'TN YUSfC.—To-morrow AlormnK, 5.38 MOON'S AGK.-First Quarter, 3rd, 6.40 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY. Wanaka, s.s., McGillivray, from Russell

DEPARTURES.

TO-DAX.

Argyle, s.s., Stevenson, for Wangarei

LAST EVENING. Rotorua, s.s., Carey, for the South Saucy Kate, schooner, McKonzie, for Russell Speedwell, ketch, Sylra, for Russell Iris, cutter, Symons, for Mangawai

EXPORTS.

Per Pretty Jane: 1 bale cottons, 20 boxes starch, 2 cases hats, 1 bale English clothes lines, 5 cases champagne.—E. and A. Isaacs.

Outwards CoASTWiSE.-Linda Weber, brig antine.for Kaipara. in ballast: Lake Erie barge, Customs to-day for Kaipara. where she she is to load with timber for Lyttelton. The s.s, Wanaka arnyed from Russell this morning Witu. 150 tons cpal, 60 casks oil, 22 sacks oysters. 12 sacks bones, and several passengers. Sha will sail South tomorrow. The brisr Elliotts entered out at the Customs to-day for Newcastle. H «««i The Rotorua sailed for Napier and the South la3t night. Passengers—Mr and Mrs Graham, Mr and Mrs Stewart, Misses Todd, Green, Wootten, Messrs. Mowbray, Harding (2), Con stable, Studholme, Thompson, Kidings.Keesing, Weaswood, Attwool. Want, Durant, Cadell, McLaren, Baker and Farron's Company (16), i natives, and original from Sydney.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Lady Bird, s,a., from the South Fiery Cross, schooner, Mason, from Wauganui Atalanta, schooner, Morris, from Waitara

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Undeb:- For Thames, this day, at 5 p.m.; and to-mor-

row, at 5.30 p.m. .. _ For Coromandel, per Rotomahana, this day, at

4.30 p.m. , ■ ~, . For Whitiangi, Tauranga, and Opotiki. per

Rowena, this day, at 4 p.m. ~ . , . For Gisborne, psr Proity Jane, this day, at 4

For Waiwera, Warkworth, Te Arai, Waipn, Wangarei, and ilangapai, per Anne Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Tauranga, Gisborne, Napier, and Southern Provinces, per Wanaka, to-morrow, at 3 p.m. For fi'riendly Islands, per Caledonia, on Friday

next, at 2 p.m. For Napier, per Southern Cross, on Saturday next, at 2 p.m. per a.s. Zealandia, on Tuesday, 15th Oct., as follow: — For Sandwich Islands, United State 3of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, aud British and Foreign West Indies, at 3 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 3 p.m. , Newspapers, at 1.30 p.m. Late letters bear ing an extra fee of 6d in addition to the pO3tago, will be received by the Mail Aprent on Do&rdthe steamer up to the time of sailing. S. K. tiiSS. Chief Postmaster.

BIRTHS.

BAKBR.—On the let of October, at Dundonald street, Newton Road, Mrs. H. J. Baker of a son.

DEATHS.

POTTIUR.—On September 30, William Potter, of Kpsom, aged 77 yars. The funeral will leave hiß late residence, Epsom, on Thursday, 3rd instant, at 3 p.m. Friends will please accept this invitation.

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

WBDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 1878.

For the cause that acks assistance, For the wronfif that needs resistance, For the future in the distance, And the good that^jwe can do.

THE Government last night carried their Customs Tariff Bill through committee with very little opposition. Under this bill the duty on tea is reduced 2d per pound ; and on sugar a half-penny, besides forty-six exemptions on miscellaneous articles, before specified. In consideration of the abolition of the grain duty, the Treasurer wjis forced to propose the removal of the various small duties on timber. We anticipated that this would be the case, and it involves a meddlesome interference with two of the staple industries of the colony which cannot be too strongly depre cated. The fcritd* in grain and timber be tween Auckland and the Eouth naa done more for the pr«sp«nfcj of this part of the colony tha* »ny other industrial or mercantile pursuit. That the tariff has worked "well must be generally ad mitted. In 1874 the s>awn timber im ported into New Zealand waa valued at £86,345 ; in 1876 it had fallen to £29,749. During the same period the import of log timber, which has continued duty free, has risen instead of decreased ; in 1874, its value was £13,403; in 1876, £15,760. We believe the Auckland mills are now in such a state of development that they will be able to hold their own ; but on the broad general ground that any alteration of the tariff in favour of foroign staples should only be made with extreme caution, and for a well-defined object, we protestagainst these changes, which were wholly uncalled for by any expression of public opinion, and are not designed for revenue purposes. The position of the Auckland timber industry now is that while not a stick of Auckland timber can be landed in any Australian market without paying duty, foreign timber is allowed to compete with ours un trammelled in every market that we have.

JUDICIAL impartiality has very seriously asjitated the mind o£ the tegislature for several daya past, but one of the greatest judicial farces ever perpetrated h*s been created by a recent Act of the Assembly. We r»fer to the constitution of the Courts which haTe adjudicated within the last fortnight upon various claims for compen sation arising under the Public Works Act. Tha Court is presided over by a Judge of the Suprera* Court, but the law provides that ho shall be assisted by two assessors— one nominated by each side interested. The parties to the suit of coiirse make it a point to select jfontlemen whom they can r«ly on as apecial advocates of their clAims. It is, wo believe, a fact that one of the gentlemen who has filled this quasi-judicial office actually suggested tho amount which was claimed. Iv another instance a gentle man "chosen as assessor on behalf of the claimant gavo his vote according to conscience, though not as his nominator would have wished, and he is now accused of hav ing " sold" his trusting friend. There is this security in the Court, that with one assessor pre-disposed to the plaintifl, and another to the defendant, the casting vote and control almost invariably rests with the Judge. But this being the case, might not the whole duty of deciding these causes be just as well left in the hands of His Honor; the parties to the suit laying their cases before the Court in the ordinary way by counsel, without special representation on the Bench, which is supposed to bo the very essence of impartiality.

Me Superintendent Thomson left Auck land for Wellington by the Ilotorua last night in compliance with a summons to give evidence before the Parliamentary com mittee, to which the question of police pay has been referred. Mr Pyke's motion for an increase in the remuneration of Middle Island police, if carried into effect in its present form, would do very much to dis organise the colonial police force, which is now a credit to New Zealand. If the pay of the police is to be increased at all it must be increased uniformly throughout the colony. Discontent and demoralisation will naturally arise among the North Island members of the force if the Government concede specially to the Southern police a higher rate of pay. Nothing can excuse this distinction, and it could only occur to the mind of an Otago man as either an equitable or prudent measure. Abolition has not yet led members hailing from the southern half of the Middle Island to aban don the habit of legislating as if Otago were New Zealand, or at least a part of New Zealand which in some way towers above all the rest of the colony and should be specially favoured. With a knowledge of both, we have ne hesi tatioa in saying that the Auckland police will compare very favourably in every respect with those of Otago or any other Southern district; and if it is Mr Pyke's idea that by offering greater|pecuniary inducements to the Middle Island police the best men in , the whole force will be attracted to that part of the colony, Worth Island residents will very strongly object. No doubt Mr Superintendent Thomson, whose experience, zeal, and knowledge of police business are well known, will make a firm stand for the rights of the Auckland force. It is rather remarkable, however, that in the constitution of the committee ap pinted to investigate the matter, nine members represent South laland constitu encies, and only three hail from the North. The sympathies of these members will, no doubt, be swayed in sonic degree by the interests of their constituents. All things considered, we see no great necessity for an increase of the police pay. Third-claes con stables—the lowest grade—receive 7s a day, for seven days each week ; second-class, 7s 6d ; and first-class, Bs., with quarters for the single men. No difficulty has been ex perienced in filling the ranks with intelligent and respectable men at this rate ; and Mr Pyke's motion is simply the outcome of one of those local agitations which so often make their influence felt in parliament through the medium of members of strongly-developed social qualities. The proposed inquiry into the status and wants

of the force can, however, do no harm if impartially conducted ; and if it is found that- the men are underpaid a moderate in crease may be allowed. Such an increase must, however, be participated in uniformly by the whole force.

The petition in favour of wards has been very influenfcially signed, and having now received the approval of six hundred rate payers—2oo more than is required by the Act—it will be forwarded without delay to Wellington. Opinion is generally favour able to the movement, Avhich is calculated to secure better local representation. We believe three large wards are contemplated by the promoters, whici would secure all the advantages gained by making members run the gauntlet of a substantial con stituency, while, at the same time, giving, special representation. If the Government complies with the prayer, which it isbouna to do, the whole ot the seats in the Council will become vacant at the next annual election, and new members will be chosen by the respective wards. % "The "St. Paul's Parish Magazine tor the present month sustains its well-earned character as a Magazine for the home and fireside. The principle story, " bedgley Mill," by a lady, is continued, and gives a pleasant description of a water party at Coombe Joscelyne, somewhere among the Coombes of Western England, possibly m Somerset, a little way from the famous Cheddar cliffs. The "Confessions of a Drunkard " points a moral and adorns a tole. The pages on song birds might have been written by good old Gilbert White, considering their natural truth and know ledge of hedgerow choristers. A sketch of the St. Laurence River gives a vivid account of one of the great rivers of America, whilst the several poems and and tvood cuts are executed with fidelity. We call particular attention to an excellent sermon on the "Perfect King," by the late Canon Kingsley, of Eversley, which con veys in a brief compass an idea of that earnest worker's simple eloquence, original style, and manly pietj. The outer pages ©f the Magazine form a guide to the month in prospect, in whick we notice that the St. Paul's organ fund concert will be held to morrow evening, in the Choral Hall, that the next sitting of the Diocesan Synod will be opened in the Cathedral library on the 9th inst, that the annual church meeting will bo held on the llih inst, in the Choral Hall, when papers on various subjects will be delivered by Dr. Maunsell, Archdeacon Clarke, it. C. Barstow, Esq., the Bishop of Auckland, and Col. Haultaiu, with inter vening selections of music and songs by the choir. The annual festival of the Diocesan Qhoral Association will be held in St. Matthew's Church, on the evening of the 7th inst.

The "Church Gazette" for the present month is especially interesting to church men, and is somewhat above the average merit. It contains sareral notices of local interest in connection with the city and suburban churches, aad a brief biography of Rev. R,. S. Jacksou, who died recently at Christchurch. Wo notice a poem, fairly written, in memory of the late Bishop Selwyn, with extracts touching hiß life, from the pen of Sir William Martin. Rev. R. S. Hassard coutributes a report of the Missionary Conference held in St. James' Hall on the 2Sth July. The Sunday school lessons, which are so useful to teachers, are full of instruction. A number of letters from local contributors, pleasing to the writers and their friends, enrich the present number. A sketch on the "Restora tion of the Jews," extracted from "Church Bells," is well-written, and among other suggestions, refers to Lord Beaconsfield, whose father —the author of "Curiosities of Literature"—was in early life of the Jewish faith ; and thinks that : "If Beaconsfield (Mr Disraeli) could see his way to inviting, from all parts of the world, a representative asfiembly of Israelites to come, like tue great assembly of bishops now dispersing, to London, and there meet in solemn conference some of the ablest Christians of the day, himself among the number, if not in the chair, he might yet attain a higher place of honor and useful ness than that which he seems to have reached at present." The extracts from current theological literature are carefully selected, but not of the usual "general character. The little picture of the pro gress of needlework at the Westminster Teachers' Association, in Connection with Lady Burdott-Coutts' prizes, will be cheer ing as well as edifying. The present issue of the "Church Gazette" is pure in senti ment, and commendable as a Church guide.

The quarterly meeting of the Grand Orange Lodge of New Zealand will be held in the lodge-room, Newton, this evening, at half-past 7 o'clock.

Twenty-two essays on the "Life of Joseph," written by scholars of the Auck land Grammar and Girls' High Schools, have been received by the committee of the Scripture Gift Association, in response to the twelve special prizes presented by friends. The result of the examination by the three gentlemen appointed will be made known in about ten days.

The inquest on the body of Henry Collins yesterday, before Dr. Philson, coroner, and a jury of twelve, closed with a verdict of " Accidental Death." The several witnesses who were examined were Dr. Lee, of Albert-street, who had no doubt but the falling of the timber caused the death of the lad, and death must have been instantaneous ; Patrick Collins, who was with his brother, Philip Sawney, and Roland Freer, who were present at the time of the accident on Sunday afternoon. Dr Lee deposed that there was a dislocation of the left shoulder, with fracture of the left arm, and fracture of the base of the skull. Death must have been instantaneous. Patrick Collins, brother of deceased, deposed : On Sunday afternoon, after 4 o'clock, my brother and I were going to the wharf to have a walk. There were seven other boys with us. We went to Holdship's timber yard to have a game. We were riding up and down on a truck, when Philip Sanway called out " Here's a policeman coming 1 Deceased then jumped on to the top of a stack of scantling, in order to get away. The timber fell on my brother, and he was buried under it. Roland Freer and myself commenced to pull away the timber, and in a few minutes we had it all off him. He was sitting up with his head on his chest, and only said "Good-bye, Rowley.*' The jury added a rider, recommending that the yards in Commerce and CuStom-house streets be fenced, in order to prevent similar accidents in future.

Two runaway boys were brought up at the Police Court to-day on separate charges of stealing a boat and absconding from the Kohimarama Training School. The boys were in a wretched plight, having lost caps, shoes, and almost all their outer garments. Information of the fugitives having been given to Constable Moar, of Panmure, that officer went in pursuit of the boys ; and after four days' hunt, got scent of them at .South Wairoa. The constable at length discovered them on the banks of the beauti ful river, when, seeing the well-known face and figure of the "man in blue." they kicked off their shoes and flung aside their caps with a smartness worthy of a better cause, and ran with deer-like speed through bush and briar. The constable turned up his trousers, and, shouting, followed in their track. Finding the constable gaining upon them, one rushed into the water, and the other up a tree. At length, feeling the uselessness of further attempting to escape the iron-hands of justice, they resigned their freedom, and were secured by the con stable and brought to Auckland.

Mr W. F. Baker, the finest English tenor that has ever visited Auckland, who will be remembered by his rendering of " Come into the Garden, Maud," and the "Death of Nelson," at Miss Christian's concert, has promised to take part in the concert at the Choral Hall in'aid of St. Paul's organ fund co-morrow night. This additional attrac tion to an admirable programme will be welcomed by the many who heard Mr Baker on his former visit. Mr Baker will sing the beautiful ballad, "My lionrt is thine alone," and. with Mr Brett Balfe's duett, « Excelsior." '

MrD. A. Tole, Chief Commissioner of of Waste Lands, held a lands sale yester day, in the offices, Parliament-street ';but the sales effected were comparatively small, and the majority of allotments d|d not realise beyond the upset price. Several allotments' at Mangatawhiri were bought by Mr Wright, at £1 per acre ; and one allot ment, 59 acres, for £61. Mr Gome was the purchaser of several allotments in the parish of Koheroa (105) £112 10s, (103), £122 10s ; and others at a few pounds over the upset price. Some sections at Pukekoke realised favourably ; purchaser*, Messrs. Laishley, Head, Toorney, and Walsh. Me William Aitken was also a purchaser of several allot ments at Matakohe. The proceeds of the sale amounted to £2,801.

The Treasurer ot the Young Men's Christian Association acknowledges, with thanks, having received the following sums for the debt fund :—Mr Shalders, £2 2s ; llushbrook and Bridgman, 21a ; and Mr G. Walker, £3 3s.

Rev. Father Walter McDonald respect fully acknowledges thereceiptlof one pound from Mr R. J. DeLias, towards St. Mary's Orphanage. A curious point with regard to the pale of alcoholic liquors on Sundays has recently been decided by the county bench of Chatham. From the village of Upnor to Chatham by road is a distance of over three miles," but by crossing the river Med way the distance ia reduced to about three-quarters of a mile. As two Upnor publicans are in the habit of supplying travellers with intoxicating liquors on Sundays during prohibited hours, on the arrival of the steamers, a test summons was taken out against one of them. The Kentish Magistrates inflicted a fine ot Is and costs, holding that only those who walked round .the three miles could be served as travellers, while those who shortened the journey by crossing the river were not bona fide travellers. The village of Upnor is iv the immediate vicinity of Gad's Hill, the favourite residence' and last home of Charles Dickens, and the rustic incident, had the novelist been living, might have furnished him with a tit-bit for a new story.

The usual quadrille party will meet at the usual hour, this evening, in the Odd fellows' Hall, Cook - street, under the management or Mr W. D. Pooley. The shareholders ;of the Auckland Timber Company held an extraordinary general meeting yesterday afternoon, in the Board room, Mr Wataoii in the chair, The secre tary then read the following propositions : — "1. That the capital of the company be in creased by the creation of 12,000 new shares, 1 of the nominal value of £5 each. 2. That clause 47 of Table 8., with the exception of the words, 'If he hold any other office or place of profit under the company,' shal apply. 3. That clause 31 shall not apply. 4. That to clause 28 the following word* shall be added : 'Provided that posting any such notice properly ntamped, addressed to tho registered place of abode of each share holder, shall be deemed and taken to be sufficient notice.'" On the motion of Mr Watson, seconded by Mr Errington, the propositions were adopted; and on the motion of Mr Hughes, it was agreed, "That the issue of the new shares be left in. the hands of the directors, to deal with them as they consider best for the interests of the company." After some remarks from Mr Fleming and Mr Holdship, on the disposi tion of shares, the meeting terminated. r The agent ot the Auckland Scripture Gift Association vi«ited Newton East Public School yesterday, and distributed 92 book prizes among those of the scholars who had written the best papers, evidencing care and the best penmanship. The dis tribution of the gifts was quite an event at the school, and will be long remembered by the children. We regret to learn that some malicious persons destioy the trees planted by the City Council. Several trees have been broken in Symonds-street and one last night in Grey-street. The City Council offer a re ward of £10, payable on the conviction of the offenders.

The Rev. D. Bruce visited Helensville last Sunday, with the intention of forming a Presbyterian church in that district. He was accompanied by Mr Stoweli, a young minister who has lately arrived in this colony. It is proposed that Mr Stoweli re side in Helensville and visit Kaukapakapa, Wainni, and the Wade. In the meantime the district is to be canvassed to see how much can be raised towards the support of the minister.

Last evening the Arch Hill district was enlivened by the opening meeting of the Band of Hope, held in the school-room, Great North Road. Mr J. Graham pre sided. In spite of inclement weather there were over two hundred present, the ma jority being children. Addresses were delivered by the Rev. R. Taylor and Mr Bower ; solos by Mrs Watkin, and Messrs Sinnet and Marson; recitations by Masters McGregor and Peace. Miss Graham pre sided at the harmonium. The whole was very interesting, and at the close sixty-four names were taken for membership. We are pleased to observe that the Band of Hope -will meet in the school-room every alternate Tuesday evening at 7 o'clock, and we wish the committee success in their good work. . ■; Mr Patrick Gleeson, formerly of the Aurora Hotel, has purchased the Old House at Home trom Mr Barton Ireland.

The Rev. John Gow was inducted to the pastoral charge of the Opotiki Presbyterian Church on Sunday week, and a very success ful soiree was held on the following day.

A meeting ot Thames fis-hermeii to con sider the Fisheries Protection Act, adopted resolutions against the tax of £1, and in favour of the substitution of measurement of meshes instead of measurement of the fish. ' 'That herring nets with a mesh of not less than two inches should be used, and only in the rivers. Flounder and sole nets of not less than four and a-half inches in mesh to be used only on the flats, and mullet nets with not less than three and a-half inches mesh be used in any part of the fishery during the season." Also (1) " That the meeting recognises tne necessity of prescribing a close season, but is of opinion that experts in the different locali ties should first be consulted thereon, and as to the period and duration of such close season." (2) " That the Government should not sell, lease, or grant any exclusive right on any ground occupied or used as a fishing ground by any registered fishing boat." (3) "That it is inexpedient to impose any peaalty upon buyers of fish, not being hawkers,, as it would in all probability inflict injustice upon innocent consumers; and that no penalty should include for feiture of boats and gear."

PARNELL MAYORALTY ELECTION.

PUBLIC MEETING.

LAST night a meeting of ratepayers was held in the Parnell Hall. At 8.15 the bulk of the ratepayers stood near, the entrance, and in order to facilitate business, R. Keals, Es§., proposed that Mr G. Wood take the chair. This was seconded, and the office accepted by Mr Wood, who read from the STAR tho advertisement convening the meeting. Mr Wood was'remarking that he hoped a fair hearing would be given to each "aspirant," when Captain Brackenbury (who arrived late) interrupted the chairman somewhat angrily, demanding the reason who the Mayor of Parnell was not in the chair? It was explained that Mr Melton was regarded as a candidate • but the irre pressible Captain would insist on being heard. Mr Wood had no right in the chair. He moved that the Mayor should occupy that positiou. The chairman put the motion to the meeting, but. it was lost, and the Mayor of Parnell walked out of the hall.

Mr Coleman, in response to calls, then ascended the platform, and delivered an ex haustive speech on local matters. He was followed by Mr Strange, who is also a can didate for the Mayoralty. No other speeches were mace, the meeting closing at an early hour.

[Our report, prepared for this evening's issue, has been unavoidably held over till to-morrow.]

THE MINSTRELS AT THE THEATRE ROYAL.-OPENING NIGHT.

The inclement-weather of i ast ni , not prevent a large company of vimW* li i I giving a welcome to the talented raiSS* I known as Cheevers, Kennedy, and BeS' 1 under the management of Mr Simon ' ' 1 gentleman well-known in this city V I company numbers fourteen, including «T ■ I old favourites, Messrs. Bent and Xfc I The entertainment was most eH S* I from the rise to the fall of the £. '' I The rapid changes of costume bfff" I singers of the cruiractcr songs and JaneS ' were very remarkable, and elicited * ' turous applause. The first part of the ,2' gramme in some respects, was most inteiS* P ing, but this opinion perhaps, i s a matter * I taste. It consisted of a « b'alou d'Kol°>> in winch the songs sung were mo.stlv i,I Mr Vernon Reid, who has a very fair t7 ; voice,sang Moody and Sankey'a well-know H hymn, "In the Sweet Bye and Bye "J£ great ta-te and feeling, and -was' i,. I, ,f applauded. Mr R. F. Roper's att e "The Mother to her Child," anjI Mr¥ "' Drayton's " Maggie Dale," were dl& '■ fairly given ; and Mr T. Carnpbell £sS ! an encore for his " Sweet Chiming Bella » I* which was the beat song by far sum, on tL -chairs." Mr Bent (tambo), and £ r ' 1 Cheevers (bones), were on the " ends " and P both were well up to their business. 'Thp ' P are both good story-tellers, and a few L I': their jokes were new. Mr Bent's sou* " " This Old Hat," fairly brought down the X liouse,«'uul an encore wasdemanded. Thefirst : part of the programme concluded with the '■ H iinalo, " All the World's a Stage," which I went rather tame. In the second part • Messrs. Cheevers and Kennedy introduced- |5 their wonderful change acts, which were something decidedly novel—the way th» I transformed themselves from Dutch to 1 Irisl), and then to Negroes, being really Si clever. Thesetwo gentlemen also danced P a double sand jig in excellent style,working well together. Mr Drayton, the basso'of' i the company, sang " Wreck'd and Saved * P and Mr Vernon Reid, " Tell me, Mary how ;' ■ to Woo Thee ;" and Mr W. Thompson I the leader of the orchestra, played a violin solo so well fw to gain an encore. In two I negro sketches, "The Lawyer's Clerk," and "The Man from A raerica," Mr Bent had an opportunity of introducing his rich humour ■ and comicalities, which have made him so popular throughout New Zealand and Australia, and he was ably seconded in his efforts by Messrs. Campbell, CheeTers, and Drayton. Altogether the entertainment is ' .: one of a very pleasant character, and well, worth going to see, and we have no doubt but that the company will have a successful' i season. The same programme will be repeated to-night. . '„'

FLOODS IN THE SOUTHS

(BY TELEGBAPH.)

(PRESS AGENCY.)

DUN EDIN, this day. ; Distressing accounts of floods reach us from all parts of Kaitangata. The exact; position of residents cannot be given, but it is known that the high land in the town-X ship has been rushed, including large; build ■" ings built thereon. The railway lines are" submerged ; at starting, the river washed the channel through the township; two small houses have been washed away.. The general condition of the township is- 1 deplorable. At Balclutha yesterday the river was at its highest, and within eight inches of being into the Crown Hotel, and' in the Banks of New Zealand and New South Wales the water is six inches high. Mr Willcox,- telegraphist, I was working in a foot of-water. This being the state of matters, nearly everybody left the township during the day, and at nightfall ■: not 20 people remained in the township. Accounts to-uight from Balclutha say, the water is) now subsiding. The greatest -i damage at present is in the gardens, but itis feared that many buildings have been un«; dermined and wjII have to come down.

A HOUSE WITH MAN AND WIFE

TV"ASHED DOWN THE RIVER.

Quite a sensational occurrence happened on the river to-day. A house containing a man and his wife was floated fire. miles>:: ; down the river before they were rescued. '-. Mr GiUars, runholder, narrowly escaped: drowning while attempting to reach Stirling.. He was carried off his horse, and held on by his horse's tail while he was dragged for h;.ilf-a-mile before being rescued. •,;'.■' :

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before A. Beetkam, Esq. (Chairman), andi

James Baber, Esq., J.P. s.)

One More Unfortunate. —Agnes Conlen pleaded guilty to being drunk last? night, and was fined 10s and costs. ; ' ■ ■' Intractable and Wild. — Bejamin ' Agnew and Charles Heatley waa charged,, with absconding from the Naval Training School, Kohimarama ; also, with stealing a boat, value £20, on the 28th September, tne property of James Biddeck. —Sergeant Major Mason a»ked that the case might be remanded in order that Captain. Breton and the owner of the boat might be present;—l Adjourned until Friday. ' r'~ Non-payment.—Matthew Carroll wa& bronght up on a charge of failing to pay for his child in the Industrial School; arrears £2 15s 6d. —Sergeant-Major Mason Sftid the defendant had been out of work for some time, and had promised to do hifr best towards clearing off the balance.—-Renaan ded for a month. ■' ' '

Assault.—George Sandell was called in answer to a summons for assaulting a Dutch sraman named Cooremas-, on board the British ship Halcione, on the 29th inst. —The complainant informed the Bench .that; as defendant had made a handsome-apology he would ask to withdraw the infosmation. —The Bench granted the application-rTbis was all the business. \ .;.-.",.

BURTON'S AUSTRALIAN CIRCUS.

This grand exhibition of equestrian and musical talent will be commenced, this . evening in the market place, and will embrace horsemanship-of the highest order; ,; some of the finest Arabian, English, arid Australian horses, the fairy-trick ponies, with their Lilliputian riders? the wondrous trio of acrobats, Walhalla, Lazelle, and Mofnt; five Grimaldian, clowns, "witty,.; funny, mirthful, and active; a number; of trapezians, jugglers,, educated dogs and monkeys ; forming altogether one of the most attractive, equestrian exhibitions of modern times. We have seen the animals; || this afternoon, which are some of the hand somest ever brought into the city. "Butterfly "... is-certainly a beauty in mould and colour, and rightly named. The par ticulars of the circus will be seen in another place. Everything will be ready for. the , reception of visitors at the appointed hour, and a first-class band will be in atten-,, dance. , ' .^.v'wV: i

CABLEGRAMS.

AUSTRALIAN.

[reuter's special cablegrams.]

ESCAPED NEW CALEDONIA

CONVICTS.

SYDNEY, October 1. Arrived, at Cooktown : The Torres Straits mail. , The revenue for the September quarter was £1,074,575, showing a decrease on tne previous year of £221,999. . , ■■■•■■■■ BRISBANE, October 1. Two escaped convicts arrived to-day in an epen boat from Noumea. Four convicts left on the 4th September. One .&*£<(? the passage, and one was boned on vvo» sunday Island* THE DEBBY. Whisker, 1; Sir Andrew, Swapper Tandy, 3, Won by three-qtoartera M & length. Tirae, 2raius. 49seca.

XIJSTG SI *!i WEDNESDA V, OGTOBER 2



THE AT E W 7EALAND «sr CLOTHING FACTORY -®6 EMPLOYS UPWARDS OF 600 WORKPEOPLE. BRANCHES FOR THE SALK OF OUR MANUFACTURES i AT AUCKLAND NAPIER WELLINGTON WANGANUI DUNEDIN oAMARU TIMAKU INVERCARGILL CHRLSTCHURCH. . The Proprietors have had to fight their way inch by inch in opposition to the interests of Importers and Shippers, but the desire on the part of the Public to encourage New Zealand Industries hag boon manifested by the great success which has attended all the Branches of the New Zealand Clothing Factory. SUMMER SEASON. 1378-1879. Now in reGeipt of MEN'S. BO¥S', and YOUTHS' CLOTHING, especially Manufactured fob the Auckland Market, and Superior in Style and Fit to the Imported Goods. A great portion is made o£ the famous Mosgiel Tweeds, manufactured of pure New Zealand wools. A SINGLE GARMENT SOLD AT WHOLESALE PRICE. The Largestand Choicest Stock inNew Zealand of Hats, Caps. Hosiery, Port manteaux, Bag 3. and the latest Novel ties in Ties, Scarfs, Collars, &c. A SINGLE ARTICLB SOLD AT WHOLESALE PRICE. All Goods are marked in Plain Figures, for CASH ONLY. Any Article purchased and not appro ved of will be exchanged with the same courte3y with which it was sold, or, if desired, the money will be returned. J. B. ROBINSON, manager Auckland Branch. Agency in New Zealand for Wertheim's Celebrated Sewing Machines. DISSOLUTION OF PARTNERSHIP We nave Opened several Cases of BLACK AND COLOURED SILKS, Purchased at Very Low Pricks in thk Home Markets. THK CO OURED SILKS Comprise 1 the Nkwkst Shades. THK BLACK SILKS Wil hk Sold at 2a. 11d. pkr Yard, in Order to Clear. IMMENSE QUANTITIKS of DRESS GOODS W ill be Brought Forward at Job Prices. GREAT BARG VINS ! WILL BE GIVEN DURLS& THE WEEK J. COSGRAVE & CO., MERCHANTS AND MPORTUBS QUEBN-3TREKT. AUCKLAND. ITUJRNITURE—For the Drawingroom _§? Dining-room, Library, Be xroom, or Kitchen, on Sale at I &H. COOKE'S. CARPETS— Including Brussels, 1 apes try, Kidderminster, Stair Felt, and Dutch, on Sale I & H. COOKE'S. V INOLEUM and Floorcloths, all widths, -O Bath Mats, in Einoleur and Floorcloth, on Sale at T & H. COOKB'S. O EARTH RUGS, Door Mats, plain and ?"X wool bordered. Matting, Wool Mats, Bed-side Rugs, on Sale at T. & H. COOKK'S. , BON BEDSTEADS. — French. Half .«. Tester, Stump and Folding; Iron Cots, all sizes, W>od Bedsteads and Wood Cots, on Sale at T. & PI. COOKK'S. O>EDOING.—Hair, Wool, Spring, Cocoa _S3 Fibre, and Flax Mattreases, Feather Beds, Bolsters and Pil lows, on Sale at T. & H. COOKE'S. (Ty LASSES.—Ghimney Glasses, in Gilt, Or Walnut, and Maple Frames, Toi let Glasses Toiletware, Cane seated Chairs, in great variety, on Sale at T. «i H. COOKE'S. PRICES.— As we import direct from the English Manufacturers, we are able to sell all imported goods as low as any houge in tow»i; and, employing steam powkr in.our Factory, are enabled to offer articles of local manufacture at a very moderate rate. T* & H. Gooks's KOHNITUKK AND UARPBT WABEH'IU E .67. QUBKN-STRKWT. IS. 3D. per DOZEN.—AIe and Porter Bottles Purchased in any quantity.— Ehrenfried Bros., Queen-street- B> OVAL MAIL RESTAURANT!—One j of the best in town.—J. Codling, Manager. LOVES! GLOVE S. „ First-class Josephine Cut Glove 3, two-button, various sizes, at 2s 6d per pair, worth 4s; ditto, at 2b par pair; 20 dozen, of Summer Light Fancys. all sizes, 2s 6d per pair; 10 doz. reully good Bias's Kid Gloves, at 33 6d, worth ss; large lot Grej (Jalico, 36 inch at 6d yard, wonh S>l, bought ».t auction ; Heavy Winceys, 6d per yard; lot of Winter Stock.clearing out at cost, price; best Fancy Feather-edged Ribbons. 6d per yard, worth Is; »■ large lot of radios' Sillc Soa vhs at 9d each, worth 23; 2 -iHginy Gol.ifinclus. VV. Evke, iCtumskillcn Houße, Victoria-dtretst. )



IflW S PBING Go'ODS. The Undersigned are NOW OPENING UP heir STOCK Of NEW GOODS for the in coming Season's trade, comprising— NEW FANCY DRESS MATERIALS, (IN-VARIETY). Pircv and Black Lustres, Danish Lustres (new ' . ........ shades). . New Washing Materials. Brocaded Cambrics, Lace Patterns, Galatea Stripes, and a very large assortment of PRINTS ! PRINTS ! ! PRINTS I ! Great Variety of Patterns and Un usually Cheap. New Linen Goods, Cnffs, Collars, and Sets, Ribbons, Handkerchiefs, &c. «&. HOSIERY OF ALL KINDS. "S» White and Grey Calicos, in all the best makes (English and American). FURNISHING GOODS, and a carefully-selected Stock of General Drapery of every description. Also, NEW CLOTHING OF ALL KINDS For Boy's and Men. Shirts, Hats, Hosiery, Tweeds, &c, &c. &T % (1/ In the =8) Discount allowed upon all Cash Purchases of. 20/ and upwards. RUSHBROOK AND BIiIDGMAN, DRAPKRS, CLOTHIERS, &0., JVJ M OT I OK D a APERY WAREHOUSE (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel), 0P P R QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. EX 'CITY OF SYDN BY,' 100 cases SALMON, lib. 25 cases SALMON, 21b. FOR SALE BY W. S. LAURIE, 7, Wykdham-street. T> YE GRASS! RYE GRASS jt%> CLOVERS. JUSTTO H A N D, A consignment of 400 bags POVERTY BAY RYE GRASS, for i Sale cheap. Also, On Hand, i WHITE CLOVER RAPE KEB GLOVER ?££2SS£ COW GRASS LUCERNE : &c, &c, &c Of Superior Quaityl W. J. HURST & CO.,' ■■ 101, Queon-street. WE, the undersigned BOOKSELLERS and Stationers, beg to inform the public tha^ our rceoecMve places of Business i will CLO3K every SA.TUROAY, on and after 12th October, at 2 p.m. K. WAYTIt, UPTON & CO., OHAMPTALOUP & COOPER. WE. the undersigned Watchmakers and Jewellers, bei to inform the Public that our respective places of business will CLOSE on and after SATURDAY, Sept. 21st, at 2 o'clock. JAMES HOWDEN SEYMOUR WELLS, F, H. LEWISSON HERMAN PENZHOLZ K. G. SCHWARTZ THO«. SEALTCY H. G. PAYNE JAMES ADAMS F SHAW, Jun. LAURITSHENRIKSEN A. G. BAHTLBTT H. G. DORRINGTON THOMAS BAKEK ISIDOR ALEXANDER. r\ATS! OATS! OATS! 500 bags PRIME TARTARIAN OATS 1000 baga PRIME POTATOE OATS. W. J. HURST & CO., tOl, Queen-street, Auckland. TJENNA to Harry Smith.—Please send Jl me your address at once. All well here. Address simply Monmouth. ITARBOUR VIEW GOLDMINING JQL COMPANY (REGISTERED). NOTICE TO SHAE3HOLDERS. Shareholders are reminded that the Eleventh Call of One Shilling per Share is now overdue. Payment of the same is requested forthwith. By order of the Directors. * P. TIERNKY, Manager. Coromandel.SOctober 1, 1878. ANK OF JSEW SOUTH WALES. Established 1817. Paid-up Capital £1,000.000 Reserve Fund ..• .. .. 450,000 This Bank is prepared to make special arrangements for Deposits lodged for fixed periods, and to transact all other Banking Business on terms to bo ascertained on appli cation. Auckland Branch: T.. H. IVEY, Manager. T AND TRANSFER ACT NOTICE. JU THOMAS DAVID CLEGHORN, of Epsom, near Auckland, Farmer, having made an appli cation as Devisee under the will of John Davidson, of Kpsoin aforesaid, farmer, to be registered &* proprietor in fee simple of and in Allotments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7, of Section 4, of the subdivision into Lots and Sections of Allot ments 41, 42. and 45, of Section 10, of the Suburbs of Auckland; also, part of Section sof said sub division, being the land included in Certificate of Title. Vol. 13, Folio 280, of the Register Book. Notice is hereby given that the applicant will be registered, accordingly, unless caveat be lodged forbidding the same on or before the eighth day of November next. Dated, at the Land Transfer Office, Auckland, the 25th day of September, 1878. THEO. KISSLING, District Land Registrar. LAND TRANSFER ACT NOTICE. PHILIP BOND, of Te Awamutu, Waikato, in the Provincial District of Auckland, Settler, having filed with me a statutory declaration of the loss of Grant from the down of Allotment 251a, ParisTb. of Puniu, containing 8 acres, Vol. 2, Folio 154, of the Register Book, and having applied to have a Provisional Certificate for the above land issued to him. Notice is hereby .given that 1 will comply with the above appli cation, unless caveat be lodged with me on or before the eighteenth day of October next. Dated, at the i-aud Transfer Office. Auckland, the 25th day of September. 1«78. THEO. KISSLING. District Land Registrar. mEN POUNDS REWARD. DESTRUCTION OF TREES. Town Clerk's Office, October 2,1878. Notice is hereby given that the above amount will be paid to any person or persons giving such information as may lead to a conviction of the oftender or offenders who wantonly destroy Trees planted by and under the control of the City Council. P A. PHILIPS, Town Clerk. MISS HILL'S Pupils will commence their fourth quarter on Monday, Oct. 7. Wentworth House, Ponsonby. TVTEW ZEALAND INDEPENDENT -LI GOLD MINING CO. (Limited). A Call (second) of Sixpence per Share has been made on the capital of the above named com pany, payable to the manager at the office of the company. Queen-street, Thames, on Wednesday, 11th October, 1878. THOS. HORSBRUGH, Thames, Manager. 30th September, 1878. /"]} N E POUND REWARD. Lost or Stolen—a Black and Tan Collie Dog in Queen-stavet on Saturday la,-t. Answers to the name of " Rory." Anyone returning the same,to Robert Bond, Nelson-street, will receive the above reward; or if stolen, &o on conviction, LO-T, a Black and Tan Gordon Wetter Pup,-about 10 months old, with white spot on breast.—Any person returning same to the Occidental Hotel will be liberally rewarded. LOST, a Buggy Lamp Socket, silver plated, between Epsom and Auckland.— Anyone returning same to Occidental Hotel will ho liberally rewarded. <gg||^]mOß WAITARA DIRECT. aa^^^^ss' The fast md favourite p.s. HAURAKI Captain Holmes, will Isave the Onehunga Wharf as above TO-MORROW (Thursday) at 8 o'clock a.m. For fraight or passage apply to A. CUNNINGHAM, ' Auckland or Onehunga. Orders to collect Goods left at the stores of Guthrieand Larnaeh Co.'s (Limited), or at W. .7. Hurst end Co V, Queen street, will meet with prompt despatch.



O PAUL'S ORGAN FUND. pHORAL TJALL. THURSDAY, 3rd October, at 8 p.m. concert by 8. paul's choir. ■: Programme:— Part I. 1. Chorus—"Let the hills re- ~.„. sound".. .. .. .- Brinleyßiohards 2. Sonar—" Retray me not" from "The Hermit's Bell" .. A. Maillart Mr Bkook. 3. Duet—" Sainted Mother " from " Mantana " Wallace MRS Reed (Miss Leaf), and Mrs Stanibr. L Song—"Sing, Oh! rippling river" - J.B, Wekerlin Mas Raynes. 5. Violin and Pianoforte— " Grand Duo Concertante".. .. Reissiger Mr Bbale and Mr Swallow. 6. Song—" The Yeoman's Wedding Song" .. Prince Poniatowski Mr Coatks. 7. Trio—" Night" from " Se miramide" - — Rossini Meadames Raynes, Stevens, Stanikr, Williamson, Nelson, and Miss Beale. 8. Song—"The Stranger" .. .. M. Swallow Mrs Reed. 9. Trio—' The Bells of St. Michael's Tower" .. .. W. Knyvett Part n. 1. Chorus—" Here we rest" from "La Sonnambula" .. .. Bellini 2. Song—" The Goblet" .. .. M. Swallow Mr Brett. 3. Song—" Apart" .. .. Comyn Vaughan Mrs Stanier. 4. Pianoforte Solo—" Danso Slave" .. Ascher Mr Swallow. 5. Song(with violin obligate)— " The Fisherman's Song " .. J. H. Beale Mr. Gradwell. 6. Duet—•• Hark! 'tis fairy music" .. S. Glover Mrs Raynes and Mrs Nelson. 7. 3ong—" Once asroin" .. .. A. Sullivan Mrs Reed. 8. Trio—"See our bark scuds o'er the main" .. .. Sir J. Stevenson Messrs. Brook, Coates, and Brett. 9. Chorus—"Tyroleso Chorus" from " Guglielmo Tell" .. .. Rossini Accompanist and Director Mr SWALLOW. Admission—Body of Hal), Half-a-Crown; Gallery, One Shilling. Tickets to be had from members of the Choir; Messrs. Upton, Wayte, Turrell, Haslett, Hard wick, Hatswell, and Mrs Vaughan, Parnell. US, BOOK OF WORDS For Sale at the Door osl the Hall. TTNION~ BANK OF~ AUSTRALIA. U ESTABLISHED 1837. Paid-up Capital £1,500,000 Reserved Fund 780,000 This Bank rec«ives Deposits at Interest, and transacts all general banking business on the most favourable terms, which can be ascertained at its office in Queen-street, and its other Branches and Agencieß in the District. JOSEPH K. POUNDS, Manager, Auokland. mHE NATIONAL BANK OF NEW JL ZEALAND (LIMITKD). Incorporated under the Companies Act, 18 62 an 1867. and the New Zealand Act 1,1873. This Bank is prepared to grant Special Ratea for Deposits, and to arrange for transaction of all Banking business. Terms to be ascertained upon application. (Signed), DAVID HEA.N, Manager. Auckland, 14th September, 1878. mHE COLONIAL BANK OF NEW ZEALAND. Suboribed Capital £1,000,000 Reserve Fund 36,000 This Bank is open to make special arrange ments for Fixed Deposits, and Banking business generally. WILLIAM BURTON, Manager. Auckland Branch, 14th September, 1878. BANK OF AUSTRALASIA. roorporated by Royal Charter, 1835. Paid-up Capital £1,200,000 Guarantee and Reserve Fcndb ..' 215,710 Undivided Profits „ .. .. 151.599 This Bank is prepared to make special arrange ments with respect to Deposits, and to transact all other Banking business on the most favour able terms. Rates can be ascertained on application. Auckland Branch: J. LAWFORD, Manager. THE AUCKLAND GAS COMPANY (LIMITED), AFFORD UNUSUAL FACILITY To persons willing to become Consumers of GAS. The Company open the Sewer, Tap the Main, Provide and Lay 10 feet of Service-pipe Into the Premises, make good the Street, Footpath, and Premises. And SUPPLY a METER, keeping the whole in order, WITHOUT ANY CHARGE WHATEVER. Office of the Company: 3. INSURANCE BUILDINGS.



When You Wish to Furnish Four 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 ately 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 HAf.F-PRICK ! Also, just opened up, a large lot of Fancy Baskets and 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, Jiimu, and Mottled Kauri; with Wardrobes, Drawers, Wash stands, and Tables to match. Dining and Drawing-room Suites to suit all classes. Several new designs yin Linoleum not seen before in thfi 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.— HOLLOWAY, GAELICK, AND CRANWELL, Proprietors, CitY Hall Arcade, Queen-street, Auckland



Gas is superior to every other material as a light-giving agent, not only on account of its brilliancy and its cheapness, but because it is safer,§econornises time and labour, and is more easily managed. Amongst all classes of society it is in high favour; taking rank with thenecessaries, as well as the elegancies of life. It merits whatever can be said on it* behalf. Those w>>o have enjoyed its advantages are always the most ready, as thr-y are also the most competent to pro claim its praise.—[See Advertisement.] "Subscriber" thinks "It be but to the general public of Auckland if in re all repairs to theN.Z.S. Cos. vessels tendered for, so as to give all a chance mpeting."



CHEMICAL jyr ANU KE. The nntlerßianad ar« now prepared to supply their CHEMICAL. MANURE for Root and Green Crops, in any quantity. ~ Analysis now ready, and copies will De ior warded on application. W. j. HURST & CO., 101, Queen-street. " Good ware raaVei quick markets" Mas of ten been said iruiy; and in no instance is it more remarkable than that of "Ghollah's Great In dian Cures." The9e medicines were Introduced into New Zealandbut a very, short while since, and they hare rapidly gained the favour and patron»«e of the pub*o. They are now eagerly sought by all claßseo in every part of the colony, and have done an aorwunt of good that would seem incredible were it not for the numerous and trustworthy testimonies given to the pro prietor, from those who have been cured ot long-standing diseases by these truly wonderful medicines. Charlatans are continually attempting to practice upon the health of the unsuspecting by the sale of adulterated, fiery potions in bottles of Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Sohhafps which hare been emptied of their legitimate contents. The name of this celebra ted elixir ii also counterfeited to aid the swindle Buyers should inspect the labels closely.