SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

~ ~ „. ,nm.t> (This Afternoon, 4.42 Hti. H - AiEO— -j To-morrow Morning, -.7 3UN SET.—This Evening, 6.35 SUN BISK.—To morrow Morning, 0.-9 MO"'"vS '■ ■'"* F. —N">\v Moon. 4th, 2.56 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

.Cn r ifcf> s - from Russell anc tne _> ortn Atalants. 'schooner, from Waitara (in the ..lani.k-u . Stella, Government s.s., from North Cape (in the Manukau)

DEPARTURES.

Wanaka. s ~ for the South He!e:ia, bii-antine, for Oamaru, via Thames E'sinos-. schooner, for Russell1 X iemhil'ia, schooner, Bathurst, for Napier Atlantic, schooner, Spooner, fo_ Napier

IMPORTS.

Per Wanaka, from Russell; 120 tons coal.

EXPORTS.

Per Wanaka, for the South": 62 cases.—Owen ltd Gi-.-ham. Per Wanaka. fcr the South :— 1 narc-1, Henderson and Macfarlane 1 b ;g. i as -35 packages, Porter and Co. 2 bales. Ireland tiros.

The brigantine Helena sailed for the Thames tli*= me-;_:?_g. where she will take in a cargo ox timber. Sec. for Lyttelton. . ... Th- *e*--o-nei- Atlantic sailed for Napier, Avith j. ..-.,—.-, c -.-isting of railway iron and shingles. ':•;.%.,•-.'-, VJe r Kriemdilda. Captain Bathurst, failed veTierday for Napier, via Mangaroa, A-h a "cargo of provisions, stores. &c. i'li-- V-aanta. schooner, from Waitara. and the General Gcv. s.s. Stella, from the North Cane "■>.-. c arrived -n the Manukau. "The r-ehc.-ipr Eisinore left for Rus?ell ye3ter fifr'ev _:•(_ with a cargo of timber, bricks. &c. '•__,. * - Wanaka arrived early this morning f £G —, T^i-5-eI1., with the following passengers: Saloon • ilr and Mrs Edmonds, Mrs Cook and S eh .diem Mrs Cornwall, Mrs Brown, Miss Gr.v ".e-51-3 Sco_fe. Wyatt, Shera. Strange, Brownlee, Stewart, Clsrke, and Fraser. Steerage :' Messrs Cleave and Sharp. "V" D. Gouk, shipbuilder is at present engaged caTving out necessary repairs to the barque L-A S_-'-r*or in Freeman's Bay. She 13 to hare a new bottom, and part of the planking c":-"-where will be renewed. The s._ Southern. Cross is announced to leave for Napierto-mor.rw. During her stay in port lie--c^b;_ accommodation has been greatly en l'-'v-- 1 and various other necessary improve in--ts c nied out. She has baen completely overiaauled and painted both outside andinside. jj^-.^oc^trrer accommodation has been greatly ; n( ,^wn aid other Avant3 oi the travelling t>V. i<T attended to. She is, therefore, greatly improved in all respects, and reflects the highest credit upon the various contractors. The s s Waliabi is to leave Onehunga for Wanganui-t two o'clock to-morrow afternoon. The -••■-•ooner Kenilworrh c'eared at the Customs to-day, Avith a full cargo of timber for Lyttelton, and Avill no doubt sail before to morrow morning. ~_-.. -j Tbe schooner Mazeppa has hauled alongside the Railway *Vharf. for the purpose of taking in her cargo for Levuka and Samoa. ;_ The bii-oue Appelles has taken in a sufficient Quantity of ballad, and Avill haul awoy from the wharf into the stream, preparatory to sailmg, e'-he- this evening or to-morrow morning. She has entered outwards at the Cn-toms for Guam. The ship Loehfleet was una _c to sail to-day, in conseouence of no change having taken place in the wind. It is therefore probable that she wi'l leave to-morrow. _ _ . The total amount collected at the Customs to da w, as--32 Us sd. M . „ . The cutter Avon took a cargo of 1-0 sheep to t"--=-Sf.r.-sv-t to-day.l The schooner Firefiy left thi3 afternoon for Wane. -_j .a in ballast, Avith one passenger. The sfs: Wanaka, Captain MeGilhvray, leaves for Tauranga and the South thi3 afternoon, with th* f0 lio « ing passengers:—Mr and Mrs Graham, Mr and Mrs Williams, Mr and Mrs Mandero, Mr and "Mrs Brown, Mr and Mrs Brookflefd, Mr and Mrs Chamters. Mrs M. A. Brown, Mrs Drumgoal. Mrs Gardiner, Misses Forbes, and A™ril "Mr st 3 Whitaker, Perry, Evans, Gray, Svmond_ N.ale. Jones, Koehler, Buckley, Dangar, Howard (2), Fitzgerald, Kells, Simpson, E .Lewis, J. Conway.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Nelson, this day. The p.s. Taranaki arrived from New Plymouth early this morning.

AUCKLAND STOCK AND MINING ASSOCIATION.

To-day's quotations:— _—_,__ National Bank—723 6d; Buyers, /2s 6d. South Britisl Insurance—7B3,- Sellers, 795. Union Insurance—Buyers, 13s 9d. Union Sash and Door Co.—£lolos. Guthrie S_ Larnach Co.—Buyere, 355. Auckland Timber Co.—Buyers, 50s. Moanatairi —Sellers, 70s. Tookey Tribute—Buyers, is 9d. Waitekauri—Sellers. 3s. Alburnia—7ls ; Sellers, 72s 6d. Prince Imperial—-ellers, 203. Union Beach—Buyers, 21s. Queen of Beauty—Buyers, 4s 9d. Piako—Sellers, 2s. Thames—Sellers, 355. Cure—Sellers, 5s 6d. Bismarck—Sellers, 83 6d. _~__, „ . JOSEPH NEWMAN, Chairman.

COMMERCIAL.

Messrs E. and H. Isaacs held an extensive sale of Melbourne-made clothing to-day; every hue was quitted, but at low prices. The sale was totally unreserved. The trade was. well repre sented, and about £050 worth was quitted.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails avill Close as Unokk.— For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m.; aud to

morrow, at 10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. For Wailie_e and Coromandel, per Argyle,

to-morrow, at 2.30 p.m. For AVanganui, per Waliabi, to-morrow, at

10.55 a.m. For Kawau, per Heather Bell, to-morrow, at

3 p.m. For Napier, per Southern Cross, to-morrow, at

_ p.m. For AVaiwera, Mahurangi, Matakana. Waipu, Mangawai, AYangarei, and Mangapai, per AnneMilbank, on Saturday next, at 10 a.m. For Whitiangi. Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowena, on Saturday next, at 9 a.m. For Levuka, per Mazeppa, on Saturday next,

at 3 p.m. For Napier, per Pretty Jane, on Monday next.

at 4 p.m. For Russell and Kawakawa, per Hawea, _on Saturday next, at 3 p.m. to_e_q For Russell, Waiigaroa, and Mongonui, per lona,

on Monday next, at 1 p.m. Per s.s. Taiaro, on Tuesday, March 5, as follow For India, China, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 5 a.m. For Taranaki- Soithern Provinces. Aus tralian Colonies," United Kingdom, via Suez and Southampton and via Brindisi, at 5 a.m. For money orders and > registered letters, the previous evening at -1 o'clock. For Australian Colonies per Rotorua, on

Tuesday, sth March, at 1 p.m. Per s.s. Zealundia, on Tuesday, sth March, as folloAvs :— For Sandwich Inlands, Lmted States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British aud Foreign West Indies, at 3 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe-at 3 p.m. For money orders, registered letters and ncAVspapers.'at 1.30. Late letters bearing au extra ice of sixpence in addition to the post age will be received by the Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

Although the law has been frequently and successfully invoked against the counterfeiters of Udoli'lio Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic SciiXAPPs, their cupidity has again overcome their prudence. Imitations of this famous me dicinal beverage are being put up by unprinci pled parties in empty bottles of the genuine article, and the labels imitated. Be cautious, purchasers.

NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS

"Etiquette" (Ponsonby).—l. An in.vi tation to a garden party should be an swered. 2. The title "your lordship," .strictly applicable only to bishops who are members of the House of Peers, is by courtesy used in addressing colonial bishops. 3.—lnquire at the stationers'. 4.—A Vicar, as the name implies, is one Avho rules in place of another. There are various kinds of vicars—as, for ex ample, "vicars apostical," appointed by the Pope Avith full episcopal poAvers to look after a diocese Avhere there is no bishop ; '' vicars general" are the vicars of a bishop Avho exercise authority _ all over the diocese ; " vicar forane," a vicar limited to a particular district. A vicar is likeAvise one Avho possesses a benefice of the tithes of a religious establish ment. Rector (ruler or governor) Is applied both to clergymen in charge of a parish and to the head of a religious educational establishment. " QuEEZSIE," (Jermyn-street).—l. A lady Avill never be seen parading the streets betAveen two gentlemen smoking ; the situation is incompatible with good breed ing. 2. The phrase means " The utmost point, or A-ery perfection of art." 3. Ask your milliner. 4. There is not necessarily any impropriety in a young lady giving her photograph to a gentleman friend. She may folloAV her inclinations in the matter. "F.A.N."—According to the plans of the city, Queen-street extends from the Avharf to Karangahape Road. The con tinuation on the other side through NeAvton is called Upper Queen-street, and may be considered a distinct thorough fare. As a matter of convenience, it has been customary to call all that part of the street above the Junction iire-bell Upper Queen-street, but strictly speaking this is inaccurate.

BIRTH.

PETERSON.—On the 27th February, 1878, at her residence. Cook-street, Auckland, N.Z., the wife of Mr. P. Peterson of a son.

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

THURSDAY. FEBRUARY 28. 1878.

_e« ife_ c_»e that lack* ->___-•_», fw tie wjoug t_—t mm— tesist—ica. *.» the til—- In tbe d_i—_e.

PREPARATIONS for Avar are being rapidly pushed on in England. A Reuters des patch to-day announces that Mr Gathorne Hardy, Secretary for the War Department, stated officially that one army corps (about 25,000 men), is ready and another is being prepared for service as rapidly as possible. The Austrian Government, folloAving the example of England, and probably, acting upon some understanding Avith the .British Government, Avill submit a Avar vote of six millions. Peace conditions remain un signed, and it is evident that the gravest apprehensions are entertained that a settle ment will not be arrived at peacefully. At this time it is' of special interest to us to knoAv something of the fleet which already represents British PoAver in the Mediter ranean. The folloAving is a list of the war ships noAV on that station—a formidable array truly : —

Alexandra, 12 guns, 9,492 tons, double-screw armour-plated, Capt. R. 08. Fitzroy. flag ship of "Vice-Admiral Hornby. Achilles, 16 guns, 9,694 tons, screw armour-plated, Captain Sir W. N. HeAVitt, V.C., K.C.B. Agincourt, 17 guns, 10,627 tons, screw armour plated, Captain R. Well-, flagship of Rear idmiral Sir J. E. Commerell, V.C., K.C.B. Antelope, 2 guns, 1,015 tons, iron-paddle vessel, Lieut.-Com. Wrugflelcl. Bittern, 3 gun?, 774 tons. double-screAV gun vesael, Com. A_struther, Cockatrice, 1 gun, screAV-gunboat, Com. Mus- Condc-S- guns, 774 tons, composite gun-vessel, Com. Day. , Coquette, 4 guns, screw composite gunboat, Lieut.-Com. Festing. Cruiser, 4 guns, 960 tons, sailing sloop, Com. Hart. . .. _. . Cygnet, 4 guns, screAV composite gunboat, Laeut.- Com. Wilson. , , , Devastation, 4 guns, 9,190 tons, armour-plated turret ship, Captain Grubbe, 0.8. Flamingo, 3 guns, 774 tons, composite gun-vessel, Helicon, 2 guns, 935 tons, paddleldespatc.h vessel. Hibernia, 12 guns, 4,149 tons, receiving ship, Com. Stephen, flagship of Rear-Admiral Rice. , . , Hotspur, 3 guns, 4,010 tons, armour-plated ram, D'Aercy Irvine. _ _ Pallas, 8 guns, 3,787 tons, screAv-corvetto, Cap tain Beamish. C.B. Raleigh, 22 gun?, 5,200 tons, iron-screw frigate, Captain Jago. , _, _ Rapid, 3 guns, 913 tons, screw-sloop, Com. Drum- Research! 4 guns. 1,741. tons, armour-plated screAv-sloop. Captain Wilson. Ruby, 12 guns, 1,864 tons, composite screw-3loop, Captain-Molyneaux. Rupert. 4 guns, 5,444 tons, double-screw-ram, Captain Gordon. . Salamis, 2 guns. 985 tODS, paddle despatch vgssgl _t Shannon, 9 guns. 5,103 tons, screAV armour-plated ship, Captain Grant. „i'_,*___i Sultan, 12 guns, 9,286 iron-screAv armour-plated, Captain H.R.H. Duke of Edinburgh. SAviftshure, 14 guns. 6,600 tons, armour-plated screw-ship, Captain Salmon. Terewaire, 8 guns, 8,412 tons, double-screw iron armour-plated ship. Captain Seymour. Torch, 5 gune, 570 tons screw-gan vessel, Cap tain Hammond.

Wizard, 2 guns, screw gunboat. I_eut.-Com. Doxat. This is irrespective of the Channel Squadron, which is now on its way to Gallipoli. but or which we have not a complete list. It includes the _ . , Minotaur. 17 gun=, 10,627 tons, armour-plated screw-ship, Captain Rawson, flagship oi Rear-Admiral Lord John Hay. C.B. Black Prince, 2S guns, armour-plated screAV-ship, Captain Howard, flagship of Rear-Admiral Lowell, C.B. Second in command of

squadron. Thunderer, 1 guns, 9,190 tons, turret-ship, Cap-

tain Wilson. Defence. 16 guns, 6,070 tons, armour-plated ship,

Captain Cator. Resistance, 16 guns, 6070 tons, armour-plated ship. Captain Douglas.

The Colonial Secretary's recepbion of the deputation of meat-salesmen yesterday was a pleasant departure from the ordinary routine of official rigmarole and humbug. It is not unusual for Ministers, Avhen besieged, to promise anything and everything, with such mental "reservations as render the performance quite an after considera tion. Colonel Whitmore, however, was chary of identifying his name Avith the stench and abomination of Newmarket glory hole. For years the dinner-tables of citizens have been subjected to the intolerably dis gusting nuisance of that horrible place. Members of that deputation have themselves signed protests against its continuance, and have appealed to this journal to cry out against it. Their names are appended to a document in the Council Chamber agreeing to use the slaughter-house at Western Springs, if the City Council Avould incur the cost of erection. A number of butchers actually selected the site. And now, forsooth, after the Corporation has spent several thousands of pound*, because the butchers choose for some reason to change their minds, citizens are still to cat meat impregnated Avith the stench and filth of the ill-drained hole at Newmarket. The thing is becoming too serious to be treated lightly, and consumers of meat Avill soon "have to make their influence felt in the matter. With the quarrel betAveen the City Council and the butchers as to suitability of site, Aye have nothing to do ; although it is somewhat late in the day now to find out that the Western Springs abattoirs are not Avhere they should be. But with the maintenance of a place for slaughter ing A\-hich has for years been con demned by medical men, by the trade, and by a strong public opinion, citizens have a very great deal to do. If the butchers Avho are not satisfied Avith the Western Springs, see a way of supplying an equally suitable place, more convenient to themselves, in the name of all that is good let them do it; but it has been talked of for years, aud if it Avere not for the action of the City Council Aye should now be no nearer improvement. Everyone who has examined the new city slaughterhouse, agrees intestt ing to its" admirable situation, splendid drainage, and magnificent facilities for cleansing. With such a place available, even if its use involved a little in convenience, it is intolerable , that citizens should be forced to consume meat exposed to the disease-breeding accompaniments of Newmarket The Government Avould be guilty of a gross wrong if they became a party to such a proceeding, and Aye are glad therefore to see that Colonel Whitmore firmly declined to give any countenance to a belief that the Newmarket slaughterhouse will be kept

Our morning contemporary devotes a mysterious and porientious leading article to a cable message which His Excellency the Governor was supposed to have received, advising him that a despatch had been posted fully approving of his action in refusing Sir George Grey a dissolution last session. As His Excel lency is in toAvn the " Herald" might easily have satisfied itself of the truth or false hood of the rumour, and thus been saved from a foolish adoption of the groundless fabrications of the " man in the street." Upon inquiry, we have the authority of Captain Maltng, A.D.C., for stating that His Excellency has not received any telegram on the subject, and the report published in the "Herald" is entirely Avithout foundation.

Mr F. L. Prime, late member of the City Council, has been appointed secretary to the Improvement Commissioners, Mr R. H. Stevenson haA'ing resigned. The future meetings of the Commissioners Avill be held in the Insurance Buildings. The Hibernian Band quadrille party will commence dancing this evening at eight o'clock.

At a special meeting of the Auckland Branch of the H.A.C.B. Society, held last evening, it Avas resolved to form a Juvenile Contingent, and a code of rules was drawn up for that purpose and adopted. Boys will he admitted to membership between the ages of 9 and 18, and con tributions to members' sons will be one penny per week, and to non-members' sons threepence per Aveek. A committee was formed for the purpose of carrying out the idea, consisting of Messrs Clifton, Sullivan, and M. Connolly.

The scholars' tea-meeting, in connection Aviththe Newmarket Primitive Methodiat Chapel, was held last evening. Between 80 and 90 children sat down to a Avell spread table, provided by the teachers of the school. Having partaken of tea and its associative pleasures, a juvenile entertain ment was held, presided over by Mr David Goldie, wao introduced the pro gramme Avith a few kindly Avoids. Several hymns Avere sung by the children, after Av-hich the Rev. Mr Westbrooke presented the prizes of books to the successful scholars. Mr Hayter delivered an address on the art of teaching, and the effect of prizes upon the young mind. Mrs Palmer, Avith her usual ability, accompanied the singers on the harmonium. The Avhole closed Avith the Doxology. The time for holding the International Cable Conference has not yet been fixed.

The opening of the Ohaupo railway is de layed for a week or ten days. A Committee has been appointed at Dun edin to meiHoralize the Government with respect to the differences in the raihvay tariff on the Canterbury and Otago lines.

There Avas a line exhibition of humanity in Queen-street this morning at about half past 8 that Avouldhave delightedan Inspector for the Society of Cruelty to Animals. A man, or at least a creature having the sem blance to a man, had tAvo rather uhowy looking vrhite horses hi a cab. 1 hey had evidently displeased him, or he had risen in an ill-temper, as he was lashing them under the flanks with his Avhip in a fashion that must have been highly gratifying to him, turning them short round again and again, so as to get them into favovrable positions. The sound of the Avhip Avas heard afar, and many persons looked on with disgust. The folloAving is a specimen of an original musical criticism on a pianoforte perfor mance :—"After Mamade's concert aa-us aver, a critical listener quietly took us aside, and gave vent as follows to his pent up feelings : I tell you, mister, she Avas a slasher. Our Jennie could not hold a candle to her. When she first sat doAvn she looked kind o'Avild ; then with a lioavl she dug her finger-nails into them 'ere rough notes, an shut 'em like lightning up into the thin ones. Then she paused for a reply, mister. She then commenced at the right-hand side, Avent rippling dOAYn hand over fist, till she got clean down, making a noise like thunder. She then yanknd a handful of notes out of the centre and planted them at the end, then Avriggled around Avith tAvo fingers, grabbed up another fistful, punched right and left, Avent ripety-hopety-scotch up and down, and I tell you that 'ere planner howled. She then gave another snort, and when she Avent she hustled in like mad, raised up off her chair, stuffed three fingers there, caromed six more in the corner, gobbled up a few more tunes, and settled their hash in about a minute. After that she tacked it Avith the left hand alone. Between you aud. me, mister, the man that owned that 'ere pianner went shifting around on his chair as though he had a carpet tack under him. Good night, mister."

To the Editor : Sir,—l hope my friends ot the Choral Society Avill not think it an im pertinence if I advise them by aU means to attend the performance of " Mose in Egitto on Friday. It Avould be a pity to lose the opportunity of hearing a very beautiful piece of music exceedingly aycU done. —T. J. FENTON, Presiden, Choral Society.

We learn that Mr Drummond Hay has completed the survey of the block of land beyond Cambridge on Avhich his Avork avus stopped some weeks ago by the natives. It will be remembered that the latter seizsd the theodolite and chain, and sent them as trophies to the Maori King. Subsequently the survey avus resumed, and finished Avith out obstruction.

Mr Harcourt Lee, the eminent organist, will probably give a second recital at'Pitt street on Monday evening next, March 4th- _ i i Michael Costello AA'as charged yesterday at Onehunga, Avith feloniously attempting suicide. This Avas the second time that Costello had made an attempt upon his life in consequence of aberration of mind induced by excessive drinking, Prisoner's daughter described the action of her father, who was at'the time of the attempt in a very excited state, and subsequently lay down bleeding on the grass. Dr Zinzan, avlio Avas immedia tely sent for, stated the nature of the wound in the throat, which Avas about three inches in length, but not deep Sergeant Greene conveyed the man to the hospital; his mind was evidently in a disordered state ; he had been drinking heavily, and did not appear to be master of himself. Mr BarstoAV .said it Avas of no use proceeding Avith the case, as it was clear that Costello, at the time, Avas not accountable for his act. The case avus accordingly dismissed. The " Export Journal" of America con tains the folloAving interesting tribute to the steadiness and thrift of 'the Dutch :—" The Minister of State says there has not been a bank failure in Holland during the last forty years, and that the paper money of the banks during that time litis been equal to gold. In regard to fire insurance companies there is no such thing as a failure on record, and Avhile the rate of insurance does not average more than one-half of 1 per cent,the companies are in the most flourishing con dition, realising 12 to 16 per cent per annum. First-class railroad travel is only one cent per mile, and yet the roads pay good divi dends. Pilfering officials are scarcely ever heard of, and when they shock the nation by turning up, they are severely punished, and for ever disgraced. No free passes are granted, and managers and directors have no power to pass anybody over the roads free ; all must pay the public rates ; dishonesty of any kind or failure in business means public dishonor, and utterly bars the dishonest from any future public consideration. Four millions of people live within an area of 20,000 square miles, a fact unprecedented in any other country, and all appear to be happy, prosperous, and con tented. The secret of this prosperity lies m the fact that all live within their income, and that industry and honesty are principles so firmly established that their violation is looked upon as an outrage on the national characteristics."

We learn that owners of horses and coavs in the neighbourhood of Parnell are fre quently brought into the Police black-books owing to the mischievous practices of a number of boys, Avho open gates and release the quadrupeds after dark. A Avatch should be set, and a severe example made of the first offender detected. The folloAving gSchool Committees have been elected :—Russell, Messrs J. Mac farlane, (chairman,) S. Buchanan, J. B. Williams, T. R. Williams, J. J. Pnar, H. Stephenson, and P. McAiester. The Com mittee elected for the educational district of Te Mata are : Messrs If. Oldham, (chair man,) J. Bregmen, J. Galvan, J. Mitchell, J. McCracken, if. Ormsby, A. Ormsby.

Mr G S. jFMacfarlane M.H.R., has pre sented the Working gMen's Club with a valuable collection of books, similar to those presented by him to the Fire Brigade.

We understand that His Excellency the Governor has signified his intention of honoring the opera Avith his presence to morrow (Friday) evening.

The Horahora block, from Avhich Major Jackson Avas Avarned off, is still unoeounied. Tiie Government requested Major Jackson to desist from his attempts to settle the land and pending further inquiry this has been done. Te Ngakau, one of the principal ob structors is uoav said" to* have no right Avhat ever in the block.

A discovery Avas made yesterday con nected with the alleged fraudulent bank ruptcy of David Hamilton. It appears that 13 CAvt of sugar, a portion of Hamil ton's stock, Avas removed to the store of John Young, in Shortland-street, from the house Avhere it had originally been placed at Ponsonby. It Avas stated that Young had purchased the sugar, but certain sus picious circumstances roused the attention of the police, and jesterday Young Avas arrested on the charge of receiving stolen goods. He Avas, hoAvever, admitted, bail on his OA\n bond of £100, and tAvo of £50 each. Major A. J. Picard, R.A., Avho served in New Zealand, has been appointed Extra- Groom-in-Waiting to the Queen. A correspondent at Te AAvamutu says there is no truth Avhatever in the statement that ReAvi has any "intention of visiting Wellington next session. The Avriter goes on to say that he has lately seeu and con versed Avith ReAvi, Shall we ever hear the last of that triumphal arch at New Plymouth? The last phase of tho Avonderful story of the arch goes to sheAV that the " New Zealand Times " deliberately cooked a Press Agency telegram in order to shield the arch-villains Avho destroyed that arch. There is a good deal of arch-cunning at the bottom of all this cheap advei rising of a little toavu Avhich only Aery rarely makes a noise in the Press under ordinary circumstances.

It is high time that the police of the city put some restraints upon the doiugs of the nightmen. Shortly after eleven o'clock last night Drake-street and its vicinity Avas rendered impassable to people proceeding homewards from the opera and from Queen street by the foul and offensive odours created by the untimely operations of a party of nightmen. Why cannot these people delay their work until after midnight, instead of polluting the air at the very hour Avhen a large nnmber of citizens are return ing home from places of amusement or A-isits. We trust the police Avill take action to put doAvn the nuisance. The settlement over Henderson's Mill Races was satisfactorily accomplished yes terday a_ folloAvs :—Mr M. Edger, £40 ; Mr P. Quinlan, £25 ; Mr T. A. Lamb, £20 . MrlO. McGee, £20 ; Wilson and Co., £20 ; Mr T. Walsh, £20 : Mr W. Bobbett, £5 ; Maoris, £14 : total, £164.

A very young man of Ponsonby, named Arthur Riley, Avho has sheAvn a love for the painter's art from his earliest years, has produced a very creditable painting of the Queen of" the Thames steamer, on A'iew in the AvindoAV of Mr Cleal, of Queen-street, opposite the Insurance Buildings. The picture shews much talent in the artist, Avho will improve with experience.

Mr Thomas Kilgour, of 3the Shortland SaAv Mills, sustained severe injuries to his left foot the other day, by its being caught between two logs. There is an American named J. W. Mackay, Avho is said to be Avorth fifty-five millions sterling, derived from the great Bonanza, of Avhich he OAvns three-eighths. Mr Mackay resides in Italy, Avhere he has bought the title of Count, and noAV rejoices in the name of "II Conti d' Machine" One of the American editors Avants to know Avhy Mackay does not at once purchase a CroAvn. His income is said to be at the rate of £300 per hour.

Mr William Stevenson, secretary of the Onehunga Glee Club, invites intending members for the present year to a meeting of the Club to-morrow (Friday) evening, ot the One.mnga Masonic Hall. This club, which has Avon honorable distinction hither to, should not be permitted to languish for Avant of necessary patronage.

Result of the Dunedin Cup.

THE DUNEDIN CUP, of 500 soa_., Avith a SAveep of 10 soys. each. The second horse to receive 50 soys., and the third 2S soys., from the stakes. Two miles aud a distance. The Duuediu Cup was run at two o'clock :— Templeton, 9st. 31b 1 Titania, 7st, 31bs 2 Ariel, Gst. 71bs 3 Longlands, 7st. 81bs 4 Time 3min. 59sec. Nine horses started.

WINNERS OF THE DUNEDIN CUP.

1874—Mr Redwood's Lurline, by Tradu- er IS75—Mr Delamain's Templeton, by Trad uce r 1876—Mr Delamaiue's PuugaAvereAA-ere, by Golden Grape IS77—Mr O'Brien's Fishhook, by Ira ducer

ROYAL ITALIAN OPERA.

SIGNORA VITA'S BENEFIT.-" IL BARBIERE."

SIGNOK CESEHINA ON THE VIOLU" CELLO. The announcement that the talented mezzo soprano, Signora Caranti Vita, Avould take a benefit in Rossini's famous opera "II Barbiere," and that Signor Cesehina AA-ould relieve the intervals betAveen the acts by playing two solos on the violincello, Avas quite to fill the Theatre last night Avith an enthusiastic audience. As Eosina, the charming beneficiare sang and acted with delightful archness. For the music lesson she gave the well-kuoAvn (; Bread and Cheese and Kisses," the effect ot Avhich avus much enhanced by her foreign accent. The fair singer received an enthusiastic encore, and a shoAyer of bouquets. Signor Gambetti was Figaro. With his singing Aye have no fault to find, but his acting lacked humour, andhehas an irritating Avay of flourishing his amis and legs perpetually. As Bartolo, Signor Tessada positively revelled in the broadest loav comedy, introducing business and gag enough to "make Beaumarchais and Rossini cum in their graves. It Avas, hoAvever, A-ery funny, and the audience evidently enjoyed the'buffoonery immensely. When Almaviva droA-e BasUio round aud round the stage, hitting him (like the clown in a pantomime) on a part of the body Avhich shall be nameless, the delight of the stalls and pit passed all bounds, and they nearly cheered the merry rogues. What AA-ould be_ the effect of such a sacreligious rendering of "II -Barbiere " at Covent Garden or Her Majesty's Aye cannot imagire Signor Cesari, as Basibi, played pantaloon to Tessada's cloavu Avith great effect. This artist has a tine voice, but, to a fanciful ear, his singing seems monotonous. Signora Venosta and Signer Favas played minor parts with artistic care, and consequently deserve their meed of praise. Camero's Almaviva does not please us. The character is not one Avhich suits him, and con sequently he shewed to considerable dis advantage in it. Why does not Paladini play the part ? The great hit of the evening was undoubtedly made by Signor Cesehina —quite the best contra-bass performer Avho has ever visited this city. Before hearing him Aye did not believe that so much could be got out of the mighty instrument. Between the first and second acts he played a selection from " La Sonnambula," which genuinely brought doAvn the house. He AA-as enthusiastically encored, and kindly responded with a favourite air full of Avonderful variations.

BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE OPERA.

Whilst listening to the exquisite music of the Opera Company, we were seized Avith an uncontrollable. desire to pene trate the mysteries behind the scenes. Instead of checking our improper curiosity, Aye gave full rein to it, and at the end of the first act made our way to the stage door. Here an obstacle presented itself in the shape of a peremptory notice, Avhich states that no one will on any consideration be admitted. Some of our readers may remember that it was this offensive placard Avhich drove away the Star reporter on the occasion of the gallant Dr Somerville's first appearance before a select audience of ladies. We called this fact to mind, and passed on smiling derisively. At the top of the stairs, an amiable Italian chorus singer greeted us, aud a spirited dialogue folloAved, Avhich Avas particularly interesting because as both parties spoke different lan guages, neither understood the other. At last, however, Aye made the gentleman comprehend that Aye AA'ished to see the manager, and he conducted us up some more stairs and past a confused jumble of scenery and properties on to the stage. Here for an instant Aye paused to breathe, and by so doing narroAvly escaped making (through the unexpected opening of a scene in front of us) a first appearance (in the character of an intruder) before a cultured and discriminating Auckland audience. As it Avas, however, our coat-tails flew round the corner just in time, and a moment afterwards Aye were brought face to face Avith the manager, Signor Cesari The mighty basso received us with dig nified politeness, and when we (rather feebly) explained the object of our visit, viz., to look round, introduced us into a quiet corner at the wings, from which no less a person than la Gaudagnini herself Avas Avatching the performance. It 'cer tainly cannot be said of this prima donna that she looks better on the stage than off. Unlike most actresses, she abjures alto gether the artificial aids of pearl powder, rouge, &c, and dresses with an amount of simplicity and care as rare as it is charm ing. We fear the Opera Company are not as fond of us as Aye are < f them ; in point of fact, their opinion of Auckland as a musical centre is not high, for the audiences havo been smaller here than in any to\A_i ih New Zealand. The exquisite taste of our opera-goers Avas indeed pretty clearly indicated in " Aida," when a superb cavatinaperfectly sung was treated with indifference and the little nigger's dance brought down tho house. " The sort of thing to go doAvn here," said an irritated musician that night, "is one of Offenbach's jingling opera bouffes AA'ith Emily Sokiene half-dressed in the principal part, and the agile Sara ("Wiry Sal" she used to be called in London) to throw her legs about."

WORKING MEN'S CLUB.

Tiie following circular has been issued on behalf of the Working Men's Club :—Sir,—The Committee request me to enli3t your interest in the movement now in progress fpr the establish ment of a Working Men's Club in this city. The objects Avhich it is hoped may be achieA-ed are of a kind which they venture to believe merit •general encouragement and support. In Auck land at present there is no institution devoted exclusively for promoting the social welfare of our A-ery large industrial population. The proposed Club is designed to meet this Avant in the manner Avhich has been found most popular and effective in other parts of the world. The Committee have received so much encourage ment already that they have I secured suitable premises, and hope to be abe to commence operations early next month. The Club house Avill be furnished with a Library and Keating Room, Smoking, Chess, and Billiard Rooms; private office for the convenience of employers and workmen, and other apartments found necessary for the comfort and conA-euience of members. Refreshments of all kinds will be supplied under the direction of the House Com mittee acting in the interest of members, a-d subject to rules that will effectually guard against abuse. It is needless to dilate at any length upon the success which has attended similar institutions in the Southern ProA'ince of New Zealand, or of the very high place they occupy among the social institutions of England, The desire of the Committee is to enlist your sympathy in the movement, and to invite your examination of the aims of the proposed associ ation, with a vieAV to your according it that encouragement you may deem it worthy of. I may observe that donations of books, news papers, etc., will be acceptable. The fee for an Honorary Member is £1 per annum, aud for a Life Member £10. I shall be glad at any time to giAre you any further information you may require, and ho?e to _ie_r from you at your

earliest convenience. I have the honor to __ sir, yours, very truly, Geo. W. OHeslop Vi_s_ President.—Temporary Offices of Workb^ Men's Club, "Victoria-street, Auckland, February 21st, 187 S. . - -- *

The Attempted Suicide.

Some further particulars relative to the mysterious case of John Nairn, of Epsom the man Avho was discovered Avith his throat cut on Monday last, have now come to light. Sarah Fisk, a young Avoman residing at the house of Mr Brigham, which*! Avithin a stone's throw of Nairn's cottage states that she saAV him on Monday morn' ing at half-past 7 o'clock, dressed in hj^ shirt and trousers, but she cannot say AVhether or not his throat avus cut. She Avas only 22 yards aAvay from him. U 0 member of Mr Brigham's family either saw or heard anything noteworthy. Two little * girls under ten yeare of age, daughters of Sir Mcludoe, at Avhose place Nairn used to work, state that at nine that morning (Monday) they saAv Nairn looking perfectly sober Avith a man named Driver, and another man, Avbom they did not know, enter the Junction Hotel. On the other hand, however, Driver declares that he hud not seen Nairn since Friday; and Percy Howard, Avho Avas attending to th_ bar of the Junction Hotel all Monday morning, swears most positively that Nairn did not come in there. On the Saturday night he paid a visit, but, as lie wa_ drunk aud hud no money, Avas not served. The proprietor of the Junction saw Nairn on Sunday morning. His throat Avas much as usual then. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday Nairn was working at the house of Mrs Rhodo Hamlin. Mrs Hamlin states that his manner Avas very strange on Saturday. He kept talking to himself all day. William G-albraith, lessee of the NeAvmarket slaughterhouse, says that he saw Nairn at 9.15 on Monday morning, a short distance from the Junction Hotel, AA'ith a kit in his hand. Altogether, the case is a very mysterious one, and the evidence contradictory.

CABLEGRAMS.

Latest War News.

War Preparations

Tyro s_aglis_- Army Corps -Preparatory

Austrian "War Tote.

[Recter's [;Te_egba-is.]

LONDON, Wednesday.

Mr Gathorne Hardy, replying to a ques tion, said the first British army corps was ready for active Bervice, while the forma tion of a second was being hastened.

The Austro-Hungarian Government in. tend to ask the Legislature for a vote of six

millions sterling, for aa-ar purposes.

The Treaty of Peace has not been signed.

AUSTRALIAN CABLEGRAMS.

[SPECIAL TO STAR.]

Financial Crisis in __T @ .7 Cale-

donia

"Wl&espread Suia.

SYDNEY, this day.

The commercial disasters at Noumea are continuing. The Society Fonceire is now insolvent, Avhich adds greatly to thegeneral ruin result ing from the bank failures. All mining Avorks are stopped. The treasurer of the Transportation has embezzled fourteen thousand frama. When it Avas discovered, the unhappy man hanged himself. The local Government is not instructed to pay the Bank's liabilities.

TELEGRAPHIC.

GRAHAMSTOWN, this day.

The gold yield to date (Ist inst.) is 8,000 . ounces, nearly all in small amounts and H tribute j'ields.

A neAV Rowing Club Avas formed here last night, T. L. Murray captain. They I intend getting an English boat.

COROMANDEL, this day. Ford's Claim.—Some remarkably good;; stone was obtained during the last day or j two.

The NeAV Golden Pah cut a strong leader in the shaft yesterday. Gold is looked for in a day or tAvo. Bismarck.—The excaA'ation for the machinery is almost completed. About 151 pounds of picked stone were obtained horn the shaft on Tuesday last. MONTHLY RETURNS OF GOLD. Ngav Golden Pah, 7iozs; Gilmour's claim, Sozs j Tokatea, _40_3; Conquering Hero, 63ozs ; Pride of Takatea tribute, 21 j ozs lOdAvt ; sundries, I6ozs. The Cornby started crushing yesterday, 1 and a splendid yield is looked for. , 1 Bright Smile.—Some good stone was obtained yesterday. I understand that a 1 large quantity of specimens may be looked ,| for shortly. 'POUNDAGE CASE. I am informed that Mr Carnell is engaged ou Friday next in the first important case - impounding under the Act. It is denied 1 that the HighAvay Board have any power or the Government to erect a pound upon. - private property and proclaim it.

(PRESS AGEXCy.)

ALEXANDRA, this day. KING TAWHIAO'S MOVEMENTS. Your agent intervieAved King Tawhiao this morning. He is off for Mo_au, to attend the meeting there, but will retnra shortly, primed for meeting Avith Sir George

LYTTELTON, this day.

BRIG FROM CALCUTTA. Arrived: Rio Logue, brig, from Cal cutta. She left there on December 14th

WANGAKUI, this day

RACING ENTRIES. . The Wauganui general entries an* acceptances tor the Wauganui Autumn- Meeting are as follows :— ~ . Hurdle Race—Victor, Gazelle, E_peai tion, Te Whetumarama. - Tho Wauganui Derby—Sky Blue, AMI Tenaka, Chokebore, Peep-o'-Day, Legacy, Chandler. The Sapling Stakes—Opawa, Lara, Mufti, Resolution, Danebury. ... A The Ladies' Purse—Tamatea, Pretty ; Girl, Kakapo, Te Whetu, Resolution, . Abolition. tv_ Handicap Hurdle Race—Victor, W% Whetu, Expectation, Bully for You, May Moon. Cup—Four entries. Wauganui Jockey Club Handicap-^ a Tamatea, OpaAva, Expectation, Foam, i£»o- , lution, Ouida, Lara, Tamauri, Chokewa^. Haphaz. rd, Queen of the Vale, DaneWi Songster. Maiden Plate.—l 4 entries. . , for 3S nominations have been received A < the Wauganui Derby of ISSI." The P"" leges were sold for a total of £5,848. :*** fieldsare expected for the Handicap. S^Lpf of the Vale is backed at 4to 1. Danebarjiar Songster, Tamatea, aud Foam at 5 *» v

We Avould direct attention to *h*^ gramme of the Helensviile races, ""F 1 ,^j undergone alteration, I g appears in another column. The program" 1 promises first-class sport.

EVENING STAR THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 18T8



T U S T OPENED ' ' 1 CASE GENTLEMEN'S REGATTA SHIRTS Of a Superior Quality of FRENCH Cambric, and the mo3t Fashionable Patterns. W. RATTRAY, CLOTHIER & MEN'S MERCER, XT E W nOUSE, 63, QUEE-"-STREET. Auckland. npWENTYI PER CENT. DISCOUNT FOR A SHORT TIME ONLY ! FANCY DRESS MATERIALS, FURNISHING GOODS, BLACK SILKS, BLANKETS, CALICOES. HOSIERY, -r HABERDASHERY, LADIES' UNDERCLOTHING, CARPETS AND MATTING. CLOTHING OF ALL KINDS, FOR BOYS' AND MEN'S WEAR, HATS, CAPS, SHIRTS, &C. , AND EVERY DESCRIPTION of GENERAL DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, AT %_, TWENTY PER CENT, REDUCTION. FOUR SHILLINGS IN THE POUND ALLOWED UPON ALL CASH PURCHASES. Goods Entered will be Charged Regular Prices. OUSHBROOK AND "ORIDGMAN, DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, &C._ UPPER QUEEN-STREET, Auckland, (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel). OVAL INSURANCE COMPANY. Special Notice to Insurers. This Company, having intimated to the In surance Association their Withdrawal from Tariff Arrangements, is now prepared to grant Policies on all descriptions of Property at CQUitable rates. Concessions Avill he made on first-class build ings aud approved risks, in Town and suburbs, and for water supply and other protection, where made available. Special arrangements will be made with Mortgagees, .Solicitors, House Agents, Con tractors, and other large insurers. The policy of the Company is promptness and liberality in the settlement of claims, and strictly honourable dealing in all its transactions. The Security of Insurers is unsurpassed by that of any Company doing business in the> Colony. GEO. W. JUJNJ_o, Agen Office: Shortland-street, '.V Auckland, Bth February, 1878. The usual Book and Sheet Almanacs for 1878 can he had on application, or on information being sent to the Office. ' BONEDUST! BONEDUST BONEDUST I To Arrive,*about the middle of February: 500 TONS BONEDUST, Consisting of Billyard's No. 1, Bell's J inch, inch, and Boncflour. -____ „ ~,. U. J. HURST & CO., 101, Queen-street.



COtTNTEY EDITIONS PUBLISHED at 12.30 P.M. (FOR "WAIKATO), AND AT 3.30 P.M. mHE TOWN EDITION of the STAR is Published at the Office at 5 o'clock. T& H. COOKE • Have on Sale ONE OF THE LARGEST STOCKS OF FURNITURE IN THE COLON!. Special Items :— DRAWING-ROOM SUITES WALNUT TABLES carpers HEARTHRUGS LINOLEUM FLOORCLOTH IRON BEDSTEADS TOILET-.? LASSES CAKE-SEATED CHAIRS TOILET-WARE DRAWERS MARBLE-TOP WASHSTANDS MATTRESS KS FEATHER BEDS. A Small Shipment of CRETONNE? and CASH MERES, New Patterns. All Goods at Lo\a-est Rates. delivered free. Liberal Discount to Cash Buyers. Furniture Show-rooms .... 67. QU E EN-STREET Steam Cabinet Factory VICTORIA-SI RLE _ mo AGRICULTURISTS & OTHERS W. J. HURST &; CO. have on sale the under mentioned Fertilizers, all of which have been proved to jroduce satisfactory results in tins district. Experience teaches that largo and pro. 3table returns can be relied on by a j uuiciou-. and liberal use of them. The flattering Tesci cnonils from leading Fanners justify W. .1. ilars & Co. in strongly commending them to every Atrriculturist: — MALDEN ISLAND GUANO PERUVIAN GUANO MEXIO AN do. BELL.-. oONEELOUR Jandi-inch BONI-DUST BILLYARDS No. 1 do. NITRATE OF SODA SULPHATE OF AMMONIA MURIATE OF POTASH SUPER-PHOSPHATE OF LIME. SALT, SULPHATE OF LIME. In addition to the above, W. J. 11. & Co. are prenared to supply special Chemical Manures for stimulating weak Corn Crops, and renora. ing Clover-sick Pastures, as well as the Potato and Mangold mixture that for the last two sea sons has attracted such favourable notice. Analysis, prices, and other particulars will be supplied on application at the Stores. W. J. HURST & CO., 101. .uec--strccL_ UPERIOR SAMPLLS of Sydney and New Zealand Maize. Tartarian and Potato Oats, Table Potatoes, Flour, Oatmeal, Bran, Sharps, Barley, Chaff, Oilcake Coal, Sec, Sec, always on hand. W. J. HURST & CO.. 101, QUEEN-STREET. AUCKLAND Clover seeds. Clover seeds. Just to Hand, ex ' Afelles.' „_._, OUR FIRST SHIPMENT NEU SEAaON S CLOVER SEEDS, CONSISTING o_ White Clover Timothy Red Clover %*??., Cow Grass Trefoil Alsyke &c, &c, &c. Turnip AND A Fine Collection of Farm and Garden Seeds, also, A Shipment of American Timothy. Samples of the above Seeds will be forwarded on application. Poverty Bay, Canterbury, andlocal Rye Grass, Cocksfoot, Ratetai!, Poas Fescues, &c., Sec, from carefully selected samples, at lowest mar ket rates. „_, . r . _ W. J. HURST & CO., 101, Queen-street. tar CITY HAJ_I_ "£» J-^urnishtng Arcade. NEW GOODS JUST UNPACKED, AND QUITE NEW. CRETONNES, Large Lot New Colours and New Designs. j- ew Brussels, from 4/9 r . RPFT = J New Tapestry from 2 1 LAKfLIB. , New Kidderminster, from _ 2 { NeAV Hearthrugs, from 6.6 >]\ Tew Shape Walnut Suites NeAV Reps for do. For the ! Green and Crimson Silk Rep) hS DRAWING--! Black and Gold do. /-o'S ROOM. FaAvn and Gold do. J<~ NeAV Pattern Walnut Tables VXew Inlaid Flower Stands 1 12 feet wide, 3' per yard FLOOR- 3 „ 2/ CLOTHS. 1 Oil Canvas, /9 (Linoleum, all Avidths Handsome White Twist and Bullion Fringes, for Bed Hangings Handsome White & Fancy Belgian Damask, for do. Turkish Towels, very large size, 1/3 and 1/9 Superior Fancy Oil Baizes, for tables Immense Variety in Ladies' Dress Buttons. Hollo-way, Garlick & Granwsli, City Hall Arcade, queen-street, auckland. CABINET FACTORY .. LORNE-STREET TTNION INSURANCE COMPANY NEW ZEALAND. APIT AL : 82,000,000. UCKLAND BRANC H : QUEEN-S T R E E T, Next the Colonial Bank. FIRE DEPARTMENT. Insuranc granted on Dwelling-houseH, Stores, Shops, Buildings in Avhich trade is carried on, Merchandise, and Goods of every description. MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers, Merchandise of ull kinds, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at "owest Current Rates. R. H. STEVENSON Manager. "VTEW ZEALAND RAILWAYS 1 Wellington-Masterton Railway. CARTERTON CONTRACT (Formation and Permanent Way). Length about 20 Miles 11 Chains. Public Works Office, Wellington, 23rd January, 187-. Written Tenders will be received at this office npto noon on WEDNESDAY, the oth March, 1878, for the abOA_ contract. They most be addressed to the Hon. the Minister for Public Works, Wellington, and marked outside " Ten der for Carterton Contract." Plans and Specifi cations maybe seen at the Public Works Offices, Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, InvercargUl, Wanganui, Wellington, and at the Post Office, Greytown, Wairarapa. at the Railway Manager's Offlce, Napier, and atthe Chief Surveyor's Office, Nelson. Telegiaphic tenders, similarly ad dressed and marked, will be received if presented at any Telegraph Office by noon of the same date, provided that Avritten tenders in due form are lodged at any of the above-named Offices by the same hour, and accompanied by a cheque on some bank in the town where the tender is lodged; such cheque to be specially i—iirked by a banker as good for twenty-one days, and to be in favour of tho Receiver- General's Deposit Account only, and not to bearer or order. The lowest or any tender Avill not necessarily be accepted. By command. JOHN CARRUTHBRS, Engineer-in-Chief. N.B.—Plans for this contract can be pur chased at the above offices. T /.OSGRAVE & fi O. will hold a GREAT CLEARING SALE OF MEN'S AND BOYS' CLOTHING TO-MORROW. All .Goods Reduced to Cost Price. . Inspection Invited.



TTTAN TED, FOR DUNEDIN 30 FIRST-CLASS JOINERS, For Light and Finest Quality Work. To com petent men. six or twelve months engage ment. J. \V. WALLER, Manager, Guthrie & Larnach (Limited), Onehunga. mo C-_RPEXTERS AND JOINERS. In reference to the advertisement for Joiners to proceed to Dunedin, you are informed that there is a dispute at present existing, and that the men are out on strike. In the interests of the trade, you are requested not to accept the proffered employment.