SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

(This 4/torncbn,.-9.20 /■';" iiIGH WATER— ', Tc-morro'A- Moving, 9.39, SUN RET.—This Evening. 7.18 '$&• SUN RTSW.—To-morro\v>TornineMW _ MOONS AGE.-FirstQuarter. .l2th,.6.36a.m. ; •

ARRIVALS.

Rotorua «s Macfarlane, from Sydney Edit!^.schooner; Trayte, from Raratonga and Rowenafs^. lellars, from Tauranga .. lona. S.S.. Farquhar, from Russell Minnie Hare, schooner, from Russell Fairy, schooner, from Russell William and Julia, schooner, trom Levuka This TUt. May Queen, ship, Tatehell. from London. Foeoloa, schooner, from Snmoa . Wellington, s.s, from the South (at Onehunga)

DEPARTURES.

Mazerroa, schooner. Garraway. for .bevuua and the Friendly Islands

IMPORTS.

Per Rotorua: 200 bass rico. 30 pairs mrabarJt shafts. 1 case apparel.-H. B. Morton , .— ])„. w,- f) l]P on from London: 3 naies, Q ll bales paoer-Henry Brett, proprietor of r!per'A?nv TQueen. from London: 1 cask tin muls, 1 dn tin money boxes. 1 do candlesticks. 1 do tin tea-pots. 2 cases wax model dolls 2 do Nankeen dolls. 1 do China dolls, 1 do tarumnets, 2do mouth harmonicons, I.do poll and back combs, 1 do dressing combs, 1 do Chinese lanterns. 1 do E.P. cruets 1 do B.P. butter coolers. 1 do concertinas, 2 specimen flower tubes. 1 do pocket knives, 1 do fancy soaps. 1 do solitaires, studs, &c, 5 cases sundries. JVJ T.ovyfeCo. Per May Queen.-from London : 10 cases furni ture. 19 do. iron bedsteads. 2 casks ironmongery, 2 bales feathers. 2 do. carpets, 1 case curtains, 1 do. wool mats, 1 do. blinds.—Winks and Hall, •^^fwafiam and Julia, from Levuka: 2 000 pine armies, 400 bunches bananas.—L.W. Baton Ex Rotorua, from Sydney: 163 cases fruit.-L.

Per Edith from Rarotonga : 11 tons pearl shell, 26 bales cotton, 25 tons copra, 12 baes coffee 7 ca="ks cocoanut oil, 6 mats.— Jj. v. Nathan and Co., agents.

The s.s. XVeilington, Captain Thos. McGee, arrived alongside Onehunza wharf at 11 o clock this morning She left Wellington at ?.i? p.m. on the 4th; arriving as above. Experienced flue weather throughout the t"P- Passengesr. Mesdames Keen and two children, C ark, Sweeney and 4 children, Hooker ; Misses McCartney, Dyer (2), Ada Hargrayes; Rev. Standrin and Clover; Messrs A. Jf.^e, Dorm. Richardsqn, E Thompson. Simcox, Klmgenfleid, Keen. Zeilman, J. Hudson. Portman. Bastard, Salmon. Bvookneld.iClark. Hayman Johnstone, Daxtc^, Furness. O'Brien, Bassett, Gilbert, Cottier McGongh.l Dyer, E.| M. Marks, Chao man. Dalton, Kaki, Williams, Kelly, J. Todd, aUWe Sarf!ndebted to Mr Dougherty for the usual favours. •"■' : ': _: . The ?chooner Edith, Cagtem George Trayte, arrived in harbour yesterrWjfernOrning,after an absence of 5i months, dusSfesvhich_ time she has been cruisins; amoner thjßislandß or the Society and Hervey and Cool^&roup and the Line islands. She brings a valnabfe cargo ot island produce, including pearl shell, copra, eocoanut oil, • coffee,, and cotton Captain Trayte. reports having had favourable weather during his run from Rarotonga. 4.J™»- The anxiously expected steamer Rotorua arrived safely.. from Sydney on Saturday evening, . after a passage of oAor 7 days,, or two s.ridahalf days longer thrift usual. She encountered- very heavy easterly gales soon afteJ leaving port, 'and Was, - hove to for three days. The following, are the passengers: Mr and Mre Langton. Mr and Mr3Reid, Mr and Mis Fringham. Mrs Parker, Mis3es Ross. Ross. Marsh, and Croslanu, Mesdames Crosland. Fi-aser Scott; Messrs Bvcroft, Barnett, Custerndat, Waterhouse, Hudson, Somers, and'.l9.' steerage.—Henderson and Macfarlane, agents. _ _ . . The schooner William and Julia arrived from Levuka yesterday, and bring 3 a cargo of frtut. She has had a favourable passage, having left Levuka on the 25th December, and had light easterly winds and fine weather until sighting Cape Brett, on Friday, when sharp northerly bursts were experienced. The barque Wodonga sails for Lyttelton to- cutter Bertha arrived safely in Samoa five WThe Sykcht Erin is for sale in Sydney. Mr Joy, her owner, is going into the interior. • The schooner Mazeppa got under weigh yes te-dav and proceeded as far as the North Head, where she was at anchor this morning. She sails this afternoon for Levuka. , Definite information has at last been received regarding the Auckland brigantine Flirt. She has arrived safely at Samoa from the Line The schooner Queen i3 to sail for Hokianga on Wednesday next. . ~ The ship Lochfleet sailed from Lyttelton on Saturday for this port, where she is to load for The schooner Gael arrived at Levuka on the 15th. all well. The passage lasted nine days. Only 5 sheep died. S&The schooner Active was to leave Apia for Auckland about the 12th December. , KThe schooner Elizabeth was at Apia when the Tcoloa left. She has been sold to the natives, who are using her as a troop ship during the war. ' , . - ;

BIRTH.

ADEN.—On the 31st December, 1877, at her residence, Arch Hill, Mrs. Great Rex Naden. of a daughter.

DEATH.

BANNESTER.—On the 6th January, at her parents' residence, Grey-street, Harriet Maud, fifth daughter of Frederick and Annie Jbfan nester, late of Wimbeldon, aged .5 years.— Home papers please copy. j Friends are invited to attend the funeral at 3 o'clock to-morrow (Tuesday). nn. „,««.«« FOWLER.—On Sunday, 6th January, Thomas his late residence, O'Connell-street, Campbellyille, to-morrow (Tuesday), at 3 o'clock. Friends will please accept this invitation. -

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

MONDAY, JANUARY 7, 1878.

For-iie cauie that lacktssstitanc*, Star the wrong that needs i eslstanc*, Pot the fature In the distance, Aad the sood^iat we exzt<!&.

The January Criminal Sessions of the Supreme Court opened to-day, and the charge delivered to the Grand Jury by His Honor, Mr Justice Gillies, will be found fully reported in another column. It is satisfactory to notice that while the number of prisoners is slightly in excess of that of the two previous calendars, the charges, jvith one exception, are not of a grave character. It is, however, note worthy that none of the prisoners belong to the habitually criminal class, -which shews that recruits are not wanting. Mr Gillies notices in ironical language the case of at tempted suicide, remarking on the folly of attempting to punish a man for failing to accomplish that which, had he succeeded in the law could not have dealt with. While we agree with his Honor as to the absurdity of many cases of punishment for attempted suicide —generally, and as some psycholo gists contend—always, committed under the influence of mental derangement—we think the punishment of imprisonment in such cases may often have a salutary effect by restoring perfect sanity under a proper system of diet, restraint from intemperance, or removal from the predisposing causes. In the case under notice his Honor does not regard the evidence for the prosecution as very reliable or convincing, but it would appear from the fact that the man was found in a condition of drunken insensibility that he will not suffer from the confinement he has already undergone, even if he escape conviction. Except two cases from Coro mandel, and two from Auckland of fraudu lent bankruptcy, upon which his Honor remarks at some length, the bulk of the charges consist of minor offences. "We hail with: satisfaction the announcement made to the Grand Jury by his honor that the Mount Eden Gaol is to undergo immediate improvement, witlithe view, of increasing the facilities for classifying prisoners. The fact has long been notorious that the accommodation' at the gaol is wholly inadequate for the enforcement of a proper system of primitive treatment," with'a reformatory object. Where young criminals, who take the first step in the dbAvnward pathway.- often under the influence of strong- temptations, are compelled to herd with oki gaolbirds who have ; adopted crime -as a profession, and where even boys ! are placed. in close proximity; to prostitutes ' and thieves, any' ad vancement in the direction ef reformation is• rendered impossible. Association .with, hardened criminals—with the consequent consciousness of degradation—begets des pair and recklessness, while initiation into the various artifices for evading detection often inspires a mistaken enthusiasm in the young and inexperienced, and encourages the commission of fresh crimes/ which plunge the man or woman into a vortexj of guilt from which there is no escape. i

AS the tide of Russian success rolls on, England's attitude becomes more intensely interesting, and we are not surprised to find it occupy a prominent place in each day's despatches. The Cabinet is said to be divided—Earl Beaconsfield, Messrs Hardy and Cairnes favouringlactive intervention ;' the Maquis of Salisbury and Earls Derjby and Carnarvon, with Mr Cross, opposing any deviation from strict neutrality. Pub lic opinion seems more united, large meet ings throughout the kingdom declaring against war. From the. seat of war itself, the news relates chiefly to the evacuation of Bulgaria by the Turkish army. In the advance on the Balkans an engagement has occurred at Teteven, a town on the river- Urakh, about 20 miles S.W. of Lovatz. The Turks were compelled to retreat with loss of 600, having however inflicted jan equal damage upon their enemy. At Sophia, as anticipated, General Gourka met with no resistance, the Turkish forces retir ing by main road' upon Ikhtiman, a town on the Northern slope of the Balkans, and commanding the approach from that direc tion to the Adrianople rail way. The cavalijy, v nder ex-Colon el Baker is co v er ing the retreat Erzeroum is now completely invested for siege operations, the Russians having adopted that mode of reduction, it is stated, in preference to the more speedy one of bombardment, out of consideration for the Christian inhabitants. Mukhtar Paslia, the late commander of the Ottoman, forces in Armenia,, has arrived [in Constantinople to render .an account of his failure. Until the new positions have been occupied South of the Balkans, we are not likely to hear of any important engagement, but unless peace negotiations; either from within or without, prevail, the campaign in Rurnelia will, in all human probability, exceed that of Bulgaria in its desperate and bloody character. \

The monthly meeting of Lodge Ara, No. 345, 1.C., will be held at the lodge-room, Princes-street, this evening, commencing at half-past seven^o'clock. The treasiirer of the Orphan Home •acknowledges; the receipt of, £11 11s from the late charity trip ojE the Hero.

News has been received in town by the arrival of the Edith of the death of Captain Young, master and part owner of the schooner Blanche, in November. De ceased was well-known, and will be gene rally regretted in Auckland.

The ship May Queen has brought a consignment of twelve valuable. _ earrujr pigeons for the proprietor, of this, jouxfial. They are of the best Antwerp, anft/EnfirMsli breeds, and are capable of being $rained to travel very great distances^ The |sy steni of obtaining'news by carrier, pigeon has always been a feature of the jSf AR, arid the freshly arrived lot of birds Tjidll greatly add to the strength of our feathered*staff,of reporters. Owing to'the cai-e bestowed upon the bird^ by Captain Tapsell only two died on the voyage, and <as two young ones Avere hatched the same number that started have come to ( -hand. \ .- -

" The May ..Queen, which arrived this' morning, left London nearly a month after the Abbey Holme, which has been expected for some weeks. Nothing was seen of her on the voyage. It will be seen by the report of the May Queen that she ran her eastings very far south, or between the parallels of 50 and 52. It is not unlikely,, that the Abbey Holme ran her eastings more to the north, and has thus missed the slant of wind which brought the May Queen along so quickly. Captain Tapsell reports sighting a barque outside Tiri Tiri.^ Osman Pasha, it would appear, has not committed suicide after all. The cablegram announcing his arrival at Bucharest en route for St. Petersburg, where he will be "interned," that is, held as "a: prisoner of war — W as misinterpreted in transmission to New Zealand, interned being "rendered "interred." We are glad to learn that the courageous defender of Plevna did not bring his life to an ignominious end by his own hand. <

According to a recent Act of Parliament, drunkards cannot be bailed except in the sureties of two householders for £5 each. How will this affect those young gentlemen of this city, who have hitherto been able to save the disgrace of appearing in the dock by the payment of the small sum of 20s ? It does seem rather hard upon them. .; The Greymouth Coal" Company has resolved to issue 8,000 new shares of £2 each, £1 paid up. The directors .will mortgage the plant and mine for a sum noi exceeding £4000 in order to secure another draft from the Bank to meet current expenses.

The meeting of the Newton Kirk harmo nium, subscribers will be held this evening, at 7.30, in the Excelsior Hall, Newton, for the purpose of disposing of the instrument, and a second meeting half-an-hour later is convened to consider the erection of a new district Presbyterian Church.

The funeral of the late Alfred John Phillips took place yesterday at twenty minutes to five o'clock. The funeral cortege left the late residence of deceased, Kyber Pass Road, and the remains were followed to the grave by nearly 200 persons, includ ing the brethren of 'the Forester's Court City of Auckland, No. 3978 of which the deceased was a member, and several representatives of other lodges. The place of interment was St. Mark's churchyard, and the obituary service was performed by the Yen. Archdeacon Pntt in a most impressive manner. The weather being wet, the first part of the service was gone through in the church. The deceased was a young man of 24, and had only been two months married. He Avas attacked by typhus fever about three weeks ago, and being of a somewhat weak constitution rapidly sank, and died on Friday morning. He was a young man of much promise, and was generally esteemed by a large circle of friends. Mr Heyward was the undertaker, and accomplished his task in his usual efficient manner.

The Funeral Reform Association started by the United Friendly Societies at Wel lington is making rapid progress. It is proposed to adopt the Victorian rules, under which deceased members may be buried plainly at a cost of £2 15s, or with coach and pair for £3 15s. Wives of members will be allowed to join the Association. This reform movement is worthy of general adoption throughont the colony. The expensiveness of funerals incurred out of a false sentiment of social propriety is fre quently a severe tax upon poor widows at the very time wnen the 'breadwinner of the family has bem^uddenly called away, and the bereavejjlsland most in nepd of money. In many cases the last shilling is spent in obedience tp the tyranny of established custom, and%he family is reduced to des titution. , ■

The number of patients at present in the Hospital iffW males, 127 ; females, 54 ; total, 181. t n .

The inte'lprovincial cricket match between Wellington and Canterbury has been post poned until to-morrow. The Hinemoa, with Sir George Grey and the Native Minister on board, left Tauranga on Saturday, but was compelled topukback yesterday owing to stress of weather. The Hinemoa will call iv at Gisborne, and proceed thence to ; Wellington. ..'. ,

Among the almanacs of the season, we have to acknowledge a neat card for ihe desk from Mr W. Atkin, of High-street.

There was a good attendance of the members of the Trade and Labour Council at the annual meeting on Saturday evening. Letters were received from Sir George Grey and H. Brett, Esq. (Mayor), the former accepting the position of Patron and the latter President of the Working Men's CJub, which is to be started shortly. Mr Hampton was elected President of the Council, and the other officers were re-elected. The meeting then adjourned until Wednesday evening next, for the purpose of completing the business.

, The monthly meeting of the members of the Royal Albert Loyal Oratnge Lodge is announced to be held to-morrow evening. A lecture will be delivered; after the trans action of the Lodge business.

A capital portrait of Miss Alice ■■'M f ay appears in the "Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News," of 20th October. In the accompanying biography it is stated that Miss May made her debut in Melbourne in 1872, at the earnest request of W. jS. Lyster, and played as his prima donna assoluta throughout Australia. She was to make her debut in London at the Opera Comique on the last day in October, and Mr W. S. Gilbert and Dr Arthur Sullivan were engaged writing an opera for the

occasion.

The members of the Hope of Auckland Tent, Independent Order of Rechabites, are requested to meet at the Temperance Hall this evening, for the purpose of electing and installing the officers, and transacting other important business. This being the quarterly meeting, all members are expected to be present.

By the Rotorua, from Sydney, we have the issue of the ."Town and Country Jour nal" (Sydney), of date 29th December, which is a remarkable evidence of colonial journalistic enterprize. The paper contains 48 pages of reading matter, illustrated by views"of colonial and foreign scenery, a view of Constantinople being especially notice able. There is also a large and valuable presentation map of New South Wales, shewing towns and villages, roads, raih\ ays, telegraphs ; vine, sugar, and tobacco-grow ing districts, coal, gold, and other mineral areas, lighthouses, detailed plans of Sydney and Newcastle harbours, and a great variety of other information relative to our sister colony, with an accompanying historical and geographical description. Mr Bennett, the proprietor—who is also proprietor of the "Sydney Evening News"—ris evidently determined to shew,that he is not un worthy of the large amount of public favour which he has enjoyed for many years. The "Town and Country Journal" is reputed to be one of the best newspaper properties in Australasia.

The following are the complete scores in the Rifle Match fired at Moiint Eden on Saturday last, the greater portion of which appeared in our Saturday's issue I: —W. Eady, 43 ; J. Leigh, 42 ; L. Eady, 33 ; Dore, 32 ; Reynolds, 32 ; Buffett, 30 ; J. Bruce, 30 ; Allen, 28 ; Captain White, 24 ; Captain Morrow, 23; Soall, 22; Nightingale, 20; Birnie, 17; Kin.^, 15 ; Gatland, 15.; Cap tains Morrow and White, and Vol. Bruce, did not:iire at 200 yards. .;

The May Queen brings back to our shtores two Avell-«kno\Hi Auckland ladieß^Mrs Hendiy, SometVeU apfl Mrs David'. Burn. We are gfed £6 say they'"both arfive in good liealtli, ait^i haVe much. enjoy|a thfeirj trip to the old' Country. I ••' The return of gold"from the Thainekfor the last week is 397 ozs 9 dwts.

" St. Paul's Magazine" for the present -month r being~the first numberoithe new volume, is full of ~-■-, interesting matter. Besides the calendar of the .-month, in. prospect, Church notices, and the minister s Jjlevr "Year wish, there are many pieces ,of „ interest;.and several ppems of more' than average merit. A new story, " Sedgley Mill," is commenced ; a natural history sketch ; and two very useful articles^ " How the Church was planted in Britain, and '' How are the English clergy paid ? . A special meeting of the Auckland Ship wrights Protection' Society is to be held at *t]felPferntierance Hall this evening. -'1 ' : In consequence of the wet weather, it is notifred through our advertising columns that Mrs Cowie's garden party, fixed for Tuesday, has been postponed tillthe.iollow *!iig day (Wednesday). - The Amalgamated Bootmakers are re quested to meet to-morrow evening at 7.30 o'clock; in the British Hotel, for the trans action of business. T

Major Atkinson's reply to Mr Larnah's Financial Statement has been published in pamphlet form for circulation. A degrading scene was Avitnessed in the neighbourhood 6f Upper Symonds-street on the afternoon of Saturday last. A Avell dressed woman, apparently respectable, and evidently intoxicated, Avas passing the Edinburgh Castle Hotel, Avhea her obfus cated condition Avas observed by several boys of the neighbourhood. These pro mi'sin« lads appeared to consider that they, had a special right to annoy the poor creature, and accordingly commenced throAving Btones at ■ her, and otherwise making themselves disagreeable. This conduct was persisted in for some time, and the unfortunate Avomah appeared to be greatly distressed, and inveighed in rather strong language against, her persecutors. The affair Avas brought to' a climax by one of the stones striking the woman, and evidently causing pain. Just at this moment a blacksmith, armed Avith a formidable horseAvhip,. sprang out from an adjoining smithy. His1 appearance on the scene Avas the signal for a general departure on the part of the boys, Avhich was greatly acceler ated by several judiciously-administered and Avell-deseryef! cuts of the Avhip. upon that part of their anatomy which nature has specially adapted for receiving punishment of this description. The, speed With which the "young gentlemen "..[decamped .Afas truly amazing, and Avorth recerding. The monthly meeting of the members of Lodge Ara mil be held this evening, at the Masonic Hotel, at half-past seven o'clock.

The Rev. R. F. Macnicol occupied the1 pulpit of .St. James Prcsoyterian : Church yesterday, having returned from his holiday in the country. The Rev. W. Evans ably officiated during his absence. ' - : The distribution of presents at Benjamin Allah's entertainment on Saturday evening caused a great deal of laughter. Another bird-cage (crinoline) was given away, and strange to say the recipient was a young swell, who blushed crimson-when the article of female attire was handed to him. His embarrassment was greatly increased by the fact that his young lady was waiting for his return in one of the front seats, but could not, owing to the crowd, see the nature of his present. The bashful youth stood at the side of the stage for a few moments surrounded by the other fortunate holders of "numbers," and evidently desirons of getting rid of his troublesome "prize," which the conjuror refused to take back, and which appeared to be the sole cause of the burning blushes which suffused his downy cheeks. . Suddenly a small boy appeared in the crowd, and to the delight of the unfortunate young man, offered to relieve him of the objectionable crinoline. The offer was instantly accepted, and the young man returned to his seatr, heaping all manner of blessings on the head of the boy, who disappeared through the door, and in a few minutes returned, after having disposed of it to a dealer for several coppers. After considering the facts of the case, we hardly think that the young man, on returning to his seat, was justified in answering his young lady's query as to the nature of his present by stating that he had been tired of waiting, and seeing a poor little boy standing near, generously gave the ticket to him. We know to the contrary, and publish this correct version for the benefit of that young lady, who was so cruelly deceived.

CABLEGRAMS.

(SPECIAL TO "STAR.")

New Guinea Gold.

The May Queen Still Floating.

INatives Diving: for Treasure.

SYDNEY.—THIS DAY

Specimens of gold from New Guinea are on view in Sydney, and are ex cellent.

Advices from Fiji state that the schooner supposed to be the May Queen, of Auckland,: is still floating off the island of Ono, and natives are engaged at the wreck diving for the treasure supposed' to be on board.

Latest War News.

[SPECIAL TO PRESS AGENCY.]

Engagement at Teteven— Turks Retreat.

Russians Intend Starve Out

Erzeroum.

Anti-War Feeling in England.

British Cabinet Divided.

New Order of Merit

LONDON, January 5,

There was a severe engagement at Teteven, in which the Russian loss was seven hundred. The Turks retreated with a loss of six hundred.

Baker Pasha is covering the retreat,

Evzeroum is completely invested. The Russians will not bombard, but will reduce by famine owing to a majority of the population being Christians.

Austria declines to support the action of England.

There is great agitation throughout England against; the war, and numerous extra Parliamentary speeches have been delivered. It is stated that the Cabinet is divided—the Premier, Gathorne Hardy, and Cairnes favouring action, and Salis bury, Carnarvon, Cross, and Derby being against; while the others are doubtful. Mukhtar'Pasha has arrived at'StanibpuL Cajdihal Manning has proposed a' con clave of Cardinals at Malta. The Italian Cardinals obj ecfc ; s -: v The Queen has created a new order of knighthood named the Imperial Crown of India. . Females are eligible.

Henap is firm.

LATEST.

The Anti-War Feeling in England.

Tu?3si Falling Back from

Sophia.

LONDON, Saturday. Frequent '""meetings have been held throughout Eri|!and in favour of the maintenance of "British neutrality. General Gourka is successfully advancing on -Sophia". rTD ■_i ti , The Turks are falling back on [Ikhtiman.

AUSTRALIAN CABLEGRAMS.

[reuter's telegram.]

Torps&ees for Defence of Mel ■•' 'bourae-

MELBOURNE, January 6th. It is stated that the Government have ordered all the available gun cotton to be purchased, for the purpose of manufacturing tornedoes at Williamstown to be laid across the Channel for' the defence of the port, as recommeuded by iSir William Jervois. Goldsborough and Co., Melbourne, dur in<* December sold 180,000 bales of avool. They report the market firml for good wools, and dull for inferior. The prices realised Avere : Greasy, from 7d to Is 3d|; Avashed, Is 3d to 2s fd.

NEWS FROM SAMOA.

By the arrival of r the schooner Fogoloa this morning, we have Samoan files to the mid dle of December. THE CANTERBURY. I A naval court Avas held at the British Con sulate, Apia, on Saturday 30th November, to decide as to the legality or otherwise, of the the saleof the.Canterbury a,t?Pago Pago. The Court was called at the instance of Mr W. J. Hunt, thejate OAvner, who protested that the sale Ava's illegal. Captain Robin son, the master of sthe Vessel; Mr Mair, the supercargo Avho bought the vessel (it Avas not the Captain as. at first reported) ; Cap tain Wright, Avho surveyed the vessel; Mi- Kelly, the mate, and several others gave evidence. The testimony Avas of a most ex traordinary character. Mr Mair SAVore that Hunt, before the Canterbury left Apia, took him and others into a back house in tire town, and told them that he Avas going to send the vessel to ; Pago Pago to be cojiir'. demned and that he (Mair) Avas to buy her for a MrEckford, meaning himself, adding that it Avas the only way to clear himself from the liabilities he had incurred in Auckland. The captain contra_dicted this evidence, and said he was compelled to put into Pago Pago, as the ship Avas leaking badly. Capt. Sadler, of Apia, was. called, and sworethat Avhen the Canterbury left he understood that she was to be condemned and sold in Pa"o Pa»o. He wa4 led to understand so by°Hunt himself.. VThe Court, Avishing to knoAv Avho the mortgagees were, received the following reply:—National Bank of NeAV Zealand, £250 ; Mr, Hill. £125 ■; R. Cash more, £125. The Court found that the sate Avas legal, ordered Hunt to pay all expenses, and awarded Mair five shillings' compensa tion. The Court also records its strong disapproval of the conduct of Mr Hunt. Mr Hunt protested against the decision, but his protest Avas not entertained. Mr Mair subsequently sold the schooner to a Chinaman, who, however, refused to pay until the papers had all been signed by the Consul, Avho Avas away at the time. ~;

BEN ALLAH'S ENTERTAINMENT.

There was a moderate attendance at the Albert Hall on Saturday evening to witness the third appearance of this celebrated conjuror. The first portion of the programme comprised a number of wonderful feats of legerdemain, which were greeted with much applause. The card tricks were especially good, and caused much wonderment amongst the audience. The ventriloquistic performance was also extremely good, and compares' favourably with that of any ventriloquist who has yet appeared in this city. Professor Hennickie and Madame Stella were very successful in the mid-air suspension of the latter by the aid of mesmeric influence. Professor Hennickie's advice to young men desiring to mesmerise subjects caused a great deal of amusement. The usual gift distribution took place at the close, when amongst other articles presented were a gold watch and electro-plated tea and coffee service.

STEPHEN MASSETT.— TO-NIGHT.

This eminent composer and elocutionist will make his first appearance inthe Choral Hall this evening in an entertainment of a musical, recitative, and imitative character. Mr Massett has won good words from many distinguished persons in England and America, as well jas high commendation from the leading journals, and we believe that he will have the pleasure of addressing a large and intelligent audience in the Choral Hall this evening. His readings'and reci tations are from the best standard authors, his songs are his own, both in words^and music; and his imitations of celebrities, such .as Madame Anna Bishop, Rev. ; Charles Clark, Dickens, and Thackeray, are very close to the originals. We trust this first of Mr Massett's three evenings will proy£, in every sense, satisfactory! - Weadvise our readers to go early, as there is every pros pect of a crowded hall. j ;y

THE UNITED MINSTRELS.

These eminent Minstrels have admirably sus tained their character for songs and cpmicalitieSi since their stay in this city. The theatre < oni Saturday evening was well attended, and aa usual, every performance was jjreeted with; applause. The first part, .consisting of sentMJ mental and comic songs, was very choice, indeed} it would be difficult to select one in preference to the other. The other parts of. the proeramml embraced the " Fakir of Wooloomooloo," aaj was a decided hit. Mr Hudson was fully up w the mark, in Ms high pedestal dance. THf duet by Messrs Braham and Avery won prg longed applause. Mr Thompson's violin soli was of the first order, and the clever violiny submitted to a recal. " Binks and Ginks" was) humourous, and laughter-provoking sketol The whole was entertaining and worthy fc liberal patronage. A new programme will jfe presented this evening, comprising! "Every Dp Occurrences." "Scenes at the Dispensaß" "Holly's Album," and a new sketch, '"le Coming Mau." . ' • ■

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before R. C. Barstow, Esq., R.M.J TIPSIOLOGY. James McGuinness, James Barlow and; John Houston pleaded guilty to 1 Sng drunk on Sunday, and were fined 20s each. ~ MATT CARROLL. This defendant' was again called uMa to shew cause why he should not contjpute towards the maintenance of his childjn in St. Mary's Orphanage. Defendant paid 5s on account, am the case was allowed to stand over forpfort night. ' I ON BOARD THE IKON QUEENf Thomas Freeman was chargecf with threatening to settle Albert Bennetian the 6th inst., on board the Iron Queen?if Prisoner said Mr Bennett threaded to shoot him, and he promised him te|inches of cold steel. The captain spokp favourably of prisoner's general conduct as a seaman, ancpsaid he was under the influence of drink. I Remanded until to-morrow. i . BREACH OP HARBOUR - REGULATIONS. James Crawford was chargedfwith a breach of the Harbour Regulafms, by receiving on board the Argyle tSQlbs of gunpowder, on the 17th ult. § Mr J. B. Eussell appeared for the prosecution. Mr Hesketh, on behalf of defendant, said he had advised Mr Crawford t6 plld guilty; but defendant himself did not tjg-e the ex plosive article on board. Thefe was no explosion, but Mr Crawford ble^ the man

up. Mr Russell stated the partfjliars, and said that Mr Burgess had doj| no more than his duty in seizing the gunpowder, and making an example of thisjiase. This was n violation, of the law, aif an offence which, should be visited'with ]|nishnient.

U Fined 40s, and costs, £2 its- William Leonard and George Swanson were charged with a similaroffence. Mr A. E. Whitaker appeired for Leonard and pleaded guilty. V Mr Russell said he shoiild proceed against Swansou, as he walsimply assisting Leonard in placing the gu»powder. The Court fined Leonatd in the sum of 40s, costs £2 11s 6d, and his Worship hoped it would be a waging to others, as the fines in future cases w/uld be heavier.

NEW YEAR SQUA-BBLES. Mary Dansey was charged with threaten ing to sever the nose-pom the-face of Sarah Robertson, at Papellj, on the 2nd inst., and to which ruoce of" punishment Sarah objected. . I Mrs Robertson intimated that as she had not lost, her nose, and Mrs Dansey had apologised, she wished to withdraw the charge. Withdrawn accordingy. • Alice Hawkins was charged with threat ening to "bung up tie eyes" of Alice Wharton on the 31st ufl.

Mrs Wharton said ihafc Mrs Hawkins did not strike her, buf simply swore, and threatened her eyes, f hey had since made it up over a neat nobber. She should like to withdraw the chars?- Withdrawn accordilgty. •MES VESI? AGAIN. Ann Vesey was c*arged with violently assaulting Michael :'3urke with a mallet and chisel, and cuttiJg has face on the 2nd inst.

Mrs Vesey said sle did not chisel him, but she threw a quantity of things at him.

Michael Burke d^osed that he spoke. to Mrs Vesey respecting some articles of his which were in htf possession. She flew into a passion, and^vvore that if he stepped into her premises sje would have his by life. She immediately rushed at him, chisel in hand, caught him by his whiskers, and tofe them cut of his face until lie screamedwith pain. ': To Mrs Vesejr*- I did not say a word about the ship OJile. I did not come to see you, but Mac I did pot say, " Mac, twig that womag,she was in chains on the. Chile." You di|throw , 141bs nails at my head.

Mrs Vesey : ~S£s, I did, but you deserved pelting. I woW have broken your head. Witness proce^ed to reply to Mr yesey's questions : I sp^ke to your husband, he said his liad no coifcrol over you, you Avere completely miter of him—a perfect

Joseph McAJer, picture dealer, deposed that Mrs Vese; was staying at his house, and as far as pc could see, described the scenes. J3ur£s asked for the things she had -washed -ft him. Mrs "Vesey bubbled up, and Mikefnentioned ■ something about the "'Ship Cjle woman." He saw a sower.of things lying about which had mlsed Burke'shead, he picked up a plane, j|allet, and nails.. This conclWed the evidence. The Benchremarked that plaintiff gave a great desl of unnecessary provocation, and the cas&nust therefore be dismissed;

This was |U: the business.

ARRIVE OF THE MAY QUEEN.

The ship Say Queen arrived from London this niornifc "early, and anchored off. the Queen-strat wharf at half-past seven. She has made! rapid passage of 95 days from Gravesend and 93 from the Start Pomt — one of fthe fastest of the season. She brini a large general cargo and 46 passengeif 15 of whom are in the saloon. They alljjjmve in good health. The ship is an ii-onilipper of 1,200 tons burden, and 780 tons fester. Both she and her gallant skipper, fCaptain Tapsell, are well known a Port Chalmers and Lyttelton but ha\fnot visited this port before. We are indefed to Captain Tapsell for the fol lowing fstract of |the passage, which has been of h ery favourable character, both as regards!cather, and the social relations of alf on hfcrd :— : Leftpe East India Docks on October 1, and t<fed to Greenithe; on the 2nd adjuttf compass, and then proceeded as f ar£as ! kvesend, and lay there till tue 3rd. Landef pilot_off Deal, arid proceeded down Chani I, with moderate northerly and N.E.jlinds. On the sth, landed pilot off StartjPpint,., and had moderate N. and N.E.|find^ to Madiera, which was passed on tlf 11th; 6 days from Start; 1 Passed the Can# Islands on;the|l4th, with light S. W. wind) Picked up the N.E. trades in 24 deg.fN.; dossed to the- eastward of the Cap!de Verde .Islands, with fine steady wine; and jost the trades in 9 deg. N., frof which trine had light winds from the soitfcward and northward to the Equator, Avhfjh was crossed in 26 degi. -_.Wi' on the 2ns 28-days-from the l Start. Picked up S.l trades in/1 deg. N., and carried them top deg. S., wind backing to N.E. Had "m^erate1 variable .winds'to the island of

Tjjstan d' Acunha.^ which was passed on. Wr. 23. . Crossed the first meridian in,39 dc. S., and the meridian of the Cape'iu 4fdeg. S., on Nov. 29, 66 days out. In li(. 33 deg. S. and long. .27 degr E. passed flafge 'iceberg. Ran tne ; eastings down •ftween the .parallels of 50deg. and 52 deg. fe highest latitude being 50deg. - lOmin. fad moderate N.W. and 5.W..-.winds fiirotiglioiit;. In lat. 50 deg. S:; -and" long, torn 106 deg. to 108 deg.>: passed seven kvge icebergs; also, passed one in 112 deg. S. Passed Cape Leewin on Dec. 15th, and tasmania on Dec. 23rd,- with strong S.W. winds, and thick, rainy weather j and had baffling -vyinds from this N>:and E. to the Three-Kings, which: were passed on the sth of January, with light southerly winds. On Sunday, (the 6th),, ,a very heavy gale from the west, bursting'in stern ports and floodißg the decks. Strong - winds from that until arrival, at half-past seven this morning. / . , . v • Seldom, if ever* has .a ship arrived here from England, regarding which and n;er Captain and officers pleasanter things are said, by the passenger^. From first to. last the most complete iTarmony has pre vailed, and the Captain."and officers have been jmost assiduous in promoting the general comfort and in encouraging and assisting plans of amusement which have been from time to time i "started. All agree in stating that Captain Tapsell has behaved like a father to those, under his care, and when the passengers landed'in the forenoon they one and all expressed their great regret at leaving him and the , good ship. that carried them so well. The schemes for recreation during the passage included weekly concerts, theatrical, negro entertain ments by the May Queen minstrels, stump speeches, &c, besides the establishment of a post-office through which on New Yearns Day over 300 letters passed, and lastly a Christmas tree, which, although made of wire, was as handsome ;a tree as could be, and was mounted with as handsome; a set of presents as could be desired. Mr Tattersall, one of the saloon passengers, was foremost in arranging these entertain ments, and the same gentleman has estab lished himself as a great favourits on board by his indefatigable exertions towards the happiness of his fellow voyagers. A few days ago the passengers presented Captain Tapsell with a very handsome testimonial in the shape of a silver ornamental biscuit box, the work of Mr Bagley, one of his passengers. This was accompanied by. a letter (sent through the post-office), which expressed the deep regard which all felt for the recipient. The May Queen has the ruputation of being a splendid sea boat, and a very fast sailer, and her passage proyes that this reputation is founded on a good basis. ; Some of her day's runs are splendid, and veryg few vessels trading to this colony who could hold their own with her as far as speed is concerned. She will come along side tlie wharf in a day or two. She |is announced by Messrs L. D. Nathan and Co. to be the next ship to load for London on behalf of Messrs Shaw, Savill and Co.

Passengers—Saloon : Mrs Soniervell, Mrs Burn, Mrs Dobie, ; Miss,eJ3; Dobie (2), Mr and Mrs Wilson and 2 children, Mr Wood head,;Mr Challenor,Mr Stuart, Mr Tatter sail, Dr Comyn.

2nd. class : Mr Edwin Graham Mr t> W. Evans, Mrs Evans and 2 children to- : M. Ennis, Mrs R. Thomson, Mr and? Alexander Thomson, Mr and Mrs Hat^u 18 H and 5 children, Mr W. G. Ward, Mr • Mrs John Taylor and infant, Mr V t I Wilson, Mr and Mrs G. A. ThonrLi Misses Harriet, Georgina, Rosina An I and Lily Thompson, Mrs G. Dunca « Misses M. Duncan, Annie Duncan I Kate Duncan, Masters George and % ]? I Duncan, Mr John White, Mr John I Gardiner, Mr R. Dickenson, Mr F j I Twistleton, Mr and Mrs John Casey' mJ I Gowan Bayley. '' r

DOMAIN BOARD.

The first meeting of the newely-constitnted Domain Board was held at the City Council Offices this morning;. Present: Messrs F. D. Fenton, Mitford, Warren, Thorn 1 McKechnie. .•-..,, '

Communications.—A letter from, the Colonial Secretary's office was read, enclos ing a copy of the " New Zealand Gazette " containing the appointment of the folio-win? members of the Domain Board :—Messrs F D. Fenton, Theo. Heale,- G. M. Mitford' G. B. Owen, J. B. Rusself, his Worship the Mayor of Auckland, his Worship" the Mayor of Parnell, and the Chairmen of the Newmarket, Newton, Ponsonby, Gr^ft^n and Karangahape Highway Boards. ' Election of Chairman.—Mr G. ~M. Mitford proposed, and Mr F. G. Clayton, seconded, " That Mr F. D. Fenton should be Chairman' of the Domain Boards!' There were no other nominations, and the motion was carried unanimously. Mr Fenton briefly replied, expressing hig gratification at the honour conferred upon him. He said that he had always taken a deep interest} in fhe affairs of the Board, and that interest would be continued. Mr Fenton then assumed the chair. Other Officers.—On the motion of for Clayton, seconded by Mr J. Warren, Mr Joseph Brown was re-elected Secretary to the Board. Messrs Chalmers and Hamilton, rangers, &c, were also re-appointed. Salaries.—The salaries of the officers were allowed to continue at the present rate.

Plantations. —Mr Thorne proposed, and it Avas agreed to, " That the Chairman and Mr Mitford be a committee to super vise the filling' up and clearing of plantations." By-laws.—lt was agreed, on the motion of Mr McKechnie, that all existing by. laws of the Board be re-adopted.

Fencing:—Mr Clayton thought it desir able that a new fence should be erected "around the Domain, and especially the Cricket Grounds ! ; * - : *. .'

■ Mr Mitford said a great portion of the Domain had been fenced during the past twelvemonths. . ...-,

On the motion of Mr Clayto^ the Cliair man and Mr Mitford were appointed a com mittee to make inquiries and report at the next meeting on the advisability of erecting a suitable fence. Time of Meeting.—Some discussion took place as to changing time and day of the meeting, Avhich under the Act was fixed at 10 o'clock on the morning of the first Monday in each month. The Late Fire.—The Secretary was requested to informthe'lessees of the Domain Gardens that the house in the centre of the I grounds, lately destroyed by fire, must be I re-built. He was also requested to write to js Mr Connell, solicitor, instructing him to ex- H amine MrGundry's lease and secure.the i rights of the Board with regard to the: in- B surance money. Extension of Lease.—Mr George Smith applied for an extension of the lease jj, of an allotment in Grafton-road, at present held, by him from the Domain Board from |j ten to -twenty years. The applicant ';,, promised in the event of his request being V granted, to erect a four-roomed house upon the land. . It was stated that the l'ental paid by Mr Smith i was £12 per year. —;Mr Clayton moved "That the application be granted, on condition that Mr Smith should/erect a substantial house at a cost of £150, and keep the same in proper repair." —Carried. ■'■'"'';

FINANCIAI/.—^The Secretary stated that the Board had £199 ia the Bank at present, and a deposit of £200 in the Savings' Bank. —-The monthly accounts were passed, and the meeting terminated.

SUPREME COURT.-THIS DAY.

OPENING OF CRIMINAL SESSIONS.

The quarterly Criminal Sessions of v the , Supreme Court for the district of Auckland;** were;opened in th^usual form thj| morrn- 4 ing. Precisely at 11 o'clock E. dr; Wi&oxf'J Esq., Registrar, entered .the Court.and took his seat," and Col. Haultain, Sheriff, ushered in his Honor Mr Justice GiUiesj who was received; with the - ; customary marks of | respect. '■'-"'} ' ,'. J r ' • The names of the Grand JuiyJ were then called over as follows :— |g • ,j~ James Burtt, Matthew Claidk,, Robert Home, Francis" Scherff, ■Alfred- Ashton-^ Robert William Keals, Geoi'ge ;; Layers, Sn| Charles Cookman McMillan, David olTolan^l William John Palmer, John "Abbott, Samuel Luke, j Henry Brett, Willia.ni Thos- Bassett, -George William. Binaey,' Robert Heniy Woodward, Samuel John Edwards, George Frazer, Alexander Grey Grant, Albert. ,' Beetham, WiUiam Weir.- ; Ifc Be'etham was elected foreman. . .;

His Honor delivered . *. THE CHARGE.

His Honor said: Mr Foreman, and gentle men of the Grand 'jury the calendar on this occasion is "somewhat larger than it has ;been during' the two previous sittings of this Court, there /being on this : occasion some nineteen prisoners charged with 24 offences, "but I am glad to say that with, one exception the offences charged are not of a very grave j character. They are mostly larcenies in various shapes. Nine' of them appear to have^been com -1 mitted by habitual offenders.: At the same time there are one or. two of the accused who seem past'qualifying them selves to be classed in that category. Four only of the prisoners appear to-be - unable to read and write. In one- or two of the cases I think you may have some diffici^y iv coming to the conclusion that even a prima facie case can be made put against the accused. There is one case of a man being charged with an attempt td commit suicide by hanging himself while in a state of drunkenness. It can scarcely fail to strike you as some what ridiculous that we should propose to punish a man. for failing to commit ah offence, which, if- he had committed, we would have been unable to .punish himfor. In the present case the only witnesses a child of tender years, who ; it is said,- saw the attempt io commit suicide, and frustra ted it; but it apperrs that this child is so ignorant of the nature of an path, and of truth and falsehood, that the "Magistrate found he could not take depositions, h you find her in that state of Ignorance,-then her evidence can not be accepted, and you will reject her evidence, and any statement made by her to third parties. Then if such be the case there is only the fact that the man was found in a state of drunken insensibility, that there were some marks about his neck, and some broken bits of rope about the room. That is the only evidence you will have to prove intent, and it will be for you, under such circumstances, to consider -syhether or not it will be wortii while to send the man to trial. ■ The most serious charge is that of rape, alleged to have been committed upon a widow at Coromandel, According to her version the accused seized her as she was about to enter her own house at about eight o'clock on a dark night; that he threw her down onJier door step and comniiited the offence. hh& did not scream or make any outcry, because shesavsheput.'his hand over her niouttt when "she was down, but after he rose and went awaY quickly, she did not scream, or give" any alarm 3 or make any complaint, but quietly retired to her own house; mr did she make any complaint until some four days after, when she louna she whs infected with a disease under wlncu

EVENING SmR, MONDAY, JANUARY 7, IP" 8



UNION INSURANCE COMPANY, AUCKLAND1 BRANCH. Reduced RAT3S for Detached Dwelling Houses in the City, from 12s. upwards. In the Country from 13s. r _ ' gTEV^SON< Manager. ■ jj* i0 N IMSU'RANeE COMPANY ov % NEW ZK ALAND. CAPITAL... ........................ ....£2-,000,000. AUC XL A ]S~D BRAN C QUEEN-S TRE ST, / Next the Colonial Bank. FIRE DEPARTMENT. Insurances granted on Dwelling-houses, Stores, Shops. Buildings in which.trade is carried on. Merchandise, and Goods of every description. < • ! " MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers, Merchandise of all kinds, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at owest Current Rates. R. H. STEVENSON Manager.



THE undersigned are now brin ing forward a Large Parcel of G^NE AL DRAPERY, HABERDASHERY, &c. bought at considerably less than usual prices, to which they invite the attention of all requiring Good Value For Money. Corsets in great variety of quality and style, w« white and coloured, from 2/6 per pair "Linen and Lace Goods, Cufts, Collars, and Sets, in variety Ladies' Underclothing Umbrellas and Parachutes, Silk, Zanella, ■—"Ainanoa. &C. ... .j ', Eotof Flowers at very low price, quite fresh ( Straw Hats, Ribbons, Gloves, &c. I A Splendid Stock of Muslin, Lace, and Lenoe Curtains, Counterpanes, Quilts, Damask Teble Cloths, Sheeting, Felt Squares Carpet 3, Floorcloth, China Matting, Ticks, &c. Large-size Huckaback Towels at /6 each New Fancy Dress Materials, Japanese.Silks, Coloured Lustres, Black Lustres, Embossed, Striped, and Check Muslins, Prints, &c. Brown Holland, from76s per yard ~ rtr Union, Fancy Jean, and Oxford Shirtings, very A. Linl of Superior Quality Silk Mixed Fancy Shirting, at 2/3, usual price 3/6 per yard White and Grey Calico. Good Grey from /3 per yard ■ Also, Fvery large assortment of Gents' Shirts, White Longcloth, Union and All-wool Crimean, Fancy Silk Mixed Scotch Twill, Fancy Jean, Oxford, &c. '' ' ■ Strong Tweed for Boys wear A Job Line of Stout Mosgiel at below Factory Braces,' Belt?, Ties. Scarfs, Collars, Cotton and Merino Hosiery, UHdershirts.&c. _ Leghorn, Tuscan, Straw, and Drill Hats, for Boys and Men, &c, &c, &c....... i in he £ allowed on all Cash Purchases of 20s. and upwards. rtjshbrooe & bridgman, Junction Drapery Warehouse, Upper Qceen-street. Auckland; pHE A P JJ AT S! CHEAP HATS ! ! CHEAP CLOTHING!! j A Quantity of Men's and Boy's Drab and m -gasfagg&nSjr TO r&%. """Also, a Parcel of CLOTHING, comprising Men's and Boy's Tweed Suits, Trousers and "Vests, &c. These Goods are slightly soiled, and will be sold REALLY CHEAP. W. RATTRAY, | iCLOTHIER AND OUTFITTER. -VT E W 7BALAN : - TT Auckland. TWTGW YEAR'S PRESENTS AT THE XS CITY HALL FURNITURE ARCADE. PRESENTS, for Wives and Daughters PRESENTS, for Sons and Husbands PRESENTS, Quaint and Curioug PRESENTS, Useful PRESENTS, Ornamental PRESENTS, Scientific PRESENTS, Beatific . j PRESENTS, for all Pockets PRESENTS, for all Prices. HOLLOWAY, GARLICK, & CRANWELL, , City Hall Arcade. THORNTON, SMITH, AND FIRTH'S PRICES CURRENT (Wholesale). Subject to alteration without notice. Sacks. 100's. SO'a. Crown Brand Flour, £ s. d. & s. d. & s. d. per ton t. ;;-..- 17 0 0 17 10 0 18 0 0- T.S.&F. Canterbury Brand- .... ..16 0 0 16 10 0 17 0 0; Meal for Pig-feed... 710 0 . .. '.. i Sharps .. .. .. .. 710 0 .. . -.. \ Bean ■'~. .. .. .. 610 0 Fowl Wheat. .. .. 4s. to 4s. &L per bushel. The above prices include sacks and bags; sacks . and bags riot returnable. Terms; Cash. December 21,1877.



A flood of liquid rubbish has been placed upon the market, put up in Udolpho Wolfe's Schie dam Aromatic SchxVapps bottles, the genuine contents of which have been used. Spurious labels are also often used by the scamps who seek to persuade the public that the hurtful liquors thus disguised are the same or similar to the true andpeerless medicinal cordial. Asklor the genuine and insist upon having it..



' Stephen I ■■■■-■"" Massed at ■ ' O&eral Sail ': ' Te-aiglit.f I', Sentiment, !'.' .-.;..,' ■ Seng,