SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

otpti watitb (This Afternoon, 7.23 HIGH WAIR,K— -j To _ morrow Morning. 7.49 SUN SET.-This Evening. 7.16 SIX'S" RTSE.—To-morrow Morning, a.i MOON'S AG X.— Last Quarter. 28th, 3.28 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

California, barque, Love, from San Francisco

DEPARTURES.

Hawea, °.s.. "Wheeler, for Russell lona s s. Farquhar, for Russell Rovrena, s.s., Sellars, for T&nranga

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

For London—Lochfleet, ship. May Queen, ship,

early For Lyttelton—Fairlie, schooner, early For Srdney—Zealandia, R.M.s.. on arrival from 'F.-isco.

IMPORTS.

Per Bella Mary, from Hobart Town. 466 cases jam. 311 pieces timber. 19 bullock poles, 1,538 bags bark, 6,000 rails, 17.000 palings,—Stone Bros., agents. 156 cases jam.—Henderson & Macfarlane. 300 pieces timber, 1,539 bags bark, 6,000 nails, 17.000 paling-.—Stone Bros. 130 cases Peak's iams, G. W. Binney. Per s.s. Zealandia, from San Francisco: 109 cases b-oorns and handles, 36 do do, 200 cases salmon, 14 pk?s. seeds, 2 cases gun cart ridges, 6 ca3os machinery, 5 cases hardware, 9 cases agricultural implements, 22 kegs casings, 6 cases axes, 3 cases boots a"d shoes, 10 bags hops, 50 cases canned goods, 40 bags shrimps. -^ packages general. In transit for Sydney—B.3oo packages general cargo.—Owen and Graham, agents. Per barque California, from 'Frisco :—i cases broom, 30 barrels pork, 8 cases hams, 10 casks neat's-foot oil, 30 cases glue.—H. Canham.

EXPORTS.

Pp.r Rotorua, for Sydney: 2 cases pianos.—E. and H. Isaacs. For Lyttelton : 1 canvas bale.—lreland Bros.

ARRIVAL OF THE ZEALANDIA.

The "B.M.S. Zealandia, Captain Chevalier, arrived from San Francisco, via Honolulu, at two o'clock to-day. She reports:—Dec. 31st, 3.30 p.m. California time), cast off from P.M.S.S. Co.'s wharf, San Francisco, and anchored in the stream. Received last portion of mails on board, and weighed anchor at 11 47 p.m. 0.20 a.m., January Ist, discharged pilot. Arrived at Honolulu Jan. 8, at 6.45 a.m.; time from port to port, 7 days 6 hours 35 mm. Left Honolulu again at 3 p.m.; crossed the Equator on I3th in long. 167.35 W. Passed Good Hope island on evening at 16th, and crossed the meridian of Greenwich on the 19th. thereby dropping one day from calendar. 22nd, sighted Great Barrier at 5.40 a.m; arrived m Auckland pilot ground at 12.20 p.m., and received pilot on board at 12.56 p.m. Time from Hodolulu. 12 days 21 hours 20 mm.; and from San Francisco (deducting detention at Honoluln), 20 days 3 hours 45 mm.; being 4 days 3 hours ahead of contract time. This, it will be observed, is the fastest passage on record. We are indebted to Mr F. McDonald, purser, for flies and report. Passeugers for Auckland: Mr G. T. Chapman. Mrs Chauman and two children, Miss Annie Maher, Mr John Fraser, Mr John Holmes, and 9 steerage.

The cutter Maud entered out to-day for Levuka. The s.s. Rotorua leaves for Napier and the South at 5 o'clock, taking the Southern portion of the English mail, ex ZDalandia. Passengers: Mr and Mrs Ruddock. Mrs Henton and family, Misses Murray. Buckland, Jackson, Mrs Peters, and Rev Marshall; Messrs Stogdd.le, J. Jonathan, Sneddon, Peters. Guthrie, and M. Jones. The Zealandia leaves at 5 o'cloed for Sydney Passengers booked at Auckland: Mr and Mrs J. P. Walker and 2 children. Miss Black, ana Master Walker'; Messrs W. J. Baker, E. Perkins, Reader G. Wood and Son. and A. G. Shiell. Steerage: Messrs J. S. McCarthneyand Son, M. Duffy. David and William Clarkson. The barque Sophia R. Luhrs, 661 tons register was loading in New York for Dunedin, Wel lington, and Auckland, when the last mail]left. She was to sail on or about the 25th December with a general cargo. The B.s. Hawea sailed last night for Russell. She is due back again on Wednesday mornfng, and is advertised to leave for the South on Friday at 3 D.m. The s.s. Rotorua is announced to sail three hours af ler the arrival of the R.M.s. Zealandia from San Francisco. If the big boat does not arrive by 9 O'clock this evening, the Rotorua will be detained till to-morrow; but should there be no appearance up to 4 p.m. no further detention will take nlace. The s.s. Rowena sailedfor Tauranga last even with several passengers. The schooner Lovet Peacock has been laid on in Sydney for New Guinea. The barque Prospector, from Auckland, reached Newcastle on January 9th. The American barque California, Captain Love, arrived in harbour last|ovening at half past six o'clock, after a fair vt.yage of 52 days from San Francisco. She is a staunchrlooking barque of 795 tons register, and was originally built for a paddle steamer. She is owned by Mr N. Bickard, of San Francisco, who has sent her to this nort with a cargo of guano, fish, notions, &c. San Francisco was left on the 29th November. The N.E. trades were secured shortly afterwards ; the Equator was crossed in 17 days from the start, and in 154 W. Had light winds during the latter part of the yoyage. Made Cape Brett on Sunday. Pas sengers: Mr, Mrs and Miss Martin. Messrs Hurst, Kirkpatrick, and Cassovecchio.— Master, agent. The California was converted in a sail ing ship about to years ago, when she was almost rebuilt, having new bilge pieces put in, and being entirely retopped. It may interest our readers to know that the California was the steamer which took the pioneer settlers and diggers from New York to California. Captain Love after landing the Auckland portion of his cargo will proceed to Sydney for which port he has a quantity of timber on board. The schooner Edith has been taken alongside the ship-May Queen, and will at once tranship hercargo. The May Queen has almost finished putting out her general cargo. It has been turned out ■without an outside stain. The ship Loch Fleet has come alongside the western tee, and will at once commence dis charging. A large portion of her London cargo is ready for her as soon as she is ready for it. The Captain of the Bella Mary reports sight ing a ship standing N.N.E. on the Isth inst. in latitude 38.30 S., longitude 195.32 E. She was too far off to fix her identity. The schooner Fogoloa was still at anchor in harbour this afternoon. The barque Bella Mary arrived from Hobart Town this morniner at 7 o'clock, after a fast run of 13 days. She left on the 9th inrtant, and had fine weather and favourable winds to the Three Kings, which were sighted at 2 p.m.. on Satur day. Down the coast N.W. winds were carried. The BelUt Mary brings a smaller lot of fruit than usual, her owners, bo doubt, judging rightly that our own great season would just have set in on her arrival. Immediately on her arrival she came alongside the inner western tee, where she will discharge her cargo. Captain Fisher looks as hearty as ever, and as usual brings a haptfy family in the shape of a choice consignment of dogs, fowls, pigeons, &c, which are for prir ate sale.

FIJI SHIPPING.

(From Fiii papers to the 29fch ulto.)

The May Quebx wreck soi/n>—The hull of a vessel lately discovered at toe island of Simonoff, Ono Group, supposed to be the May Queen lost some time since, was disposed of by auction, yesterday, by Mr James McCullooh for the sum of £7103, for the benefit of whom it may concern. The sale was directed by Lloyd's agent for Fiji, H. Cave, Kaq. The Auckland schooner Gael was to leave Levuka on the 29th ulto., for Tavinni, to take in 70 tons sugar. She was to return to Levuka and. aail on or about the Ist inst. for Auckland. The schooner Marion Rennie, in coasting up from Suva, ran on a patch of the Mukalau Reef. A steamer was sent to her assistance, but she came off before it reached heifl

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mam will Close as Undkr: For Thames, this day. at 4.30 p.m.; and to morrow, at 3 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. For Ooromandel, per Durham, to-morrow at 1.30 a.m. For Wangarei Heads. Waipu, Wangarei, and MangaDai, per Aigyle, to-day, at 4 p.m. For Australian Colonies, per Zealandia this day, at ... . For Tauranga, per Lancashire Lass, this day,. at 4 p.m. For Russell, per Lalla Rookh, tbi3 day, at 7 p.m. For Tairua, per Mercury, to-morrow, at 3 p.m. For Waiwera, Warkworth, and Te Arai, per Anne Milbank, on Thursday next, at 10 a-m. For Tauranga, Gisborne. Napier, and Southern Provinces, per Hawea, on Friday next, at 2 For Whitiangi. Tauranga and Opotiki, per Rowena, on Friday next, at 4 p.m. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

BIRTHS

DALTON.—On the 21st January, the wife of Mr. P. J. Dalton, C.E., Upper Grey-street, of a daughter. HOLLAND.—On the 16th January, at her resi dence, Mount Victoria, the wife of A. J. Holland of a son.

DEATH.

SHEEHAN.—On the 20th January, at Sydney, N.S.W., of fever, William Francis Sheehan, youngest son of Mr. Daniel Sheehan, Nelson street, Auckland, aged 25 years. k.i.p.

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

TUESDAY, JANUARY 22, 1878.

Forth* cause that licks assistance, far the wrong: that needs resistance for tke fetnte 1b the distance, Aad tha gM«4hst w»«a»-«».

We are glad to notice that the attention of the City Council is at length seriously directed to the question of pnblie baths. The salt-water baths, Breakwater— situated in a nost inconvenient position for the main part of the city—have never fulfilled the purposes of a public insti tution for the practical inculcation of the principles of cleanliness and hydropathy. During, the existence of the Solid Rock Bath, despite its inconveniencies, the place was very largely patronised, and every suitable beach along the foreshore has its devotees, who brave the terrors of sharks in their pursuit of health. Commodious public baths are admittedly urgently needed, and as mu^h of their success and usefulness will depend upon the lowness of the charge at which they are available, the citizens must look to the Corporation, which is charged with the publiG health, to supply the necessaiy facilities. The responsibility, in other boroughs, has invariably been accepted; and Auckland corporate is behind the age in its inattention to the first duty of natural religion. The want of a suitable site, may, perhaps, be urged in extenuation of the civic neglect, but that excuse no longer operates. The new harbour reclamation between the wharf and Freeman's Bay affords every facility for the establishment of fresh and salt-water baths at a minimum expense. Any scheme, to be complete, must embrace warm and tepid baths for winter, and salt and fresh water swimming baths. The Corporation has the fresh water supply in its own hands. The cost of furnishing an ample quantity for the baths would simply be the expense of pumping a portion' of the superabundant surplus at the Western Springs. The

question has now been raised in a practical form by the reserve of a site for the purpose, and we trust that members of the Council will not allow the project to fall through.

By a cablegram received in Auckland yes terday, we are informed of the decease of Mr William Francis Sheehan, at the com paratively early age of 25 years, which took place on Sunday last. The .deceased, who was the youngest son of Mr Daniel Shee han, of Nelson-street, and nephew of the late Mr T)avid, Sheehan. of the Governor Browne Hotel, left Auckland about two or three years ago. He was an engineer, having been apprenticed for a number of years at Messrs Maseb'ehTs foundry. He was employed in that capacity on board the Florence Irving, and at the time of the wreck of this vessel, on the^ Australian coast, was amongst the persons rescued. He was employed in Sydney for some time past, and was seized with fevera short time ago, which terminated |in his death. The deceased was well-known in Auckland, and his loss will be deeply felt by a large circle of friends. He was a steady, promising young man, possessed of good abilities, and likely to make his way in the world had he not been removed by the hand of death.

The monthly inspection parade of the Scottish Company of Volunteers will be held this evening in the drill-shed, at the u sual hour.

Mis Dogherty-is steadily recovering, and has been able to leave her bed. She is still, however, very weak from los 3of blood. Constable Strathearn visits her daily.

Mr Godwin, who was injured by the capsizing of a dray on the morning of the late fire, was much better this morning, and if kept perfectly quiet, it is expected that he will be able'to leave the hospital in the course of next week. His friends are therefore requested not to disturb him.

In the action in the Supreme Court yesterday, between Shirley and Gerrand, the two principal men of the settlement, all the settlers of Eangariri were present, txcepting Patrick Denny, so that it was facetiously said that Rangiriri was left entirely in the care of the women Denny, being away on business at Mercer.

The Choral Hall was uncomfortably crowded last evening on the occasion of Dr Somerville's last evangalistic address in Auckland. A collection was made, which realised £22 10s. Dr Somerville's discourse was founded upon the well-known passage in St. John, c. 6., v. 47. "Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that believeth in me hath everlasting life."

Another reduction of 20s per ton has been made by millers in the price of Hour, which now stands at £16 for superfine, and £15 for household. We think it is nearly time the bakers made a corresponding reduction in the price of tue 21b loaf, which is still sold for 4J<L The railway fares on the Auckland and Onehunga line will be reduced on and after Saturday next.

At Greymouth, a child fell into the river from the Lima, but was rescued by Mr Ponsonby, the purser, who pluckily jumped in with his clothe 3 on.

Mr Harcourt, of the Thames, is prepar ing a list of persons who are willing to join in the proposed prospecting expedition to New Guinea.

Sir William Jervoise left Launceston by the steamer Managua en route for Eng land.

Up to the end of 1876 New South Wales had expended £8,638,362 on railways. The Rev. Walter Fellows, of Melbourne, who] acquired distinction as a cricketer about ten years ago, has been playing with the Bohemians, and is likely to play in the Melbourne Club eleven.

AtWalgett, N. S. W., the thermometer on the 14th inst,, was 162 in the sun, and 127 in the shade. The drought was unpre cedented. A correspondent of the "Syd ney Morning Herald" states that he saw the hair of a bullock singed by the heat of a chain to which the yoke was attached. Near Warialda, N.° S. W. at a kangaroo hunt which lasted five days, 8,500 marsupials were killed. James Cunningham has been executed at Brisbano for the murder of Frank Stein brecker.

The Regatta Committee have sent a re ply to Mr Dargaville's letter regretting that they cannot make an extra race in which the Wairoa crew could compete. As these redoubtable countrymen have not had their challenge to row any oue in Auckland accepted, and cannot row in the Regatta, they will now reserve themselves for the Northern Wairoa Regatta, which is to come off on the 17th of March. We understand that at this Regatta a prize of £50 will be offered by a Champion 4-oared race for gigs rowed on the gunwale. A singular accident took place at Messrs J. and D. Oxley's new store in Custom house-street a day or two ago. It appears that a wooden flooring had been laid down in the cellar, or basement over the earth which had been filled in after the laying of the foundations. The water working under neath has caused this earth to slip'away, and on some heavy casks of oil being taken down, the flooring gave way, and precipi tated them into the black depths below. They were fished out after some trouble, but the flooring will require renovating. The best way would be to fill in under the cellar with concrete or asphalt. No danger can accrue to the building from the accident, for the foundations are carried dawn to the solid rock.

The Waxworks Exhibicion was again successful in drawing numbers of citizens to witness the models of persons eminent for their peculiar diplomatic and benevolent tendencies ; while on the other side, persons notorious for their evil deeds arrested other eyes. The galvanic battery exercised the fingers of young people, to the amusement of many loiterers in the room.

The annual meeting of the parishioners of St. Paul's will be held this evening in the school-room at half-past seven o'clock. It is desirable that all persons interested in matters pertaining to the church will endeavour to be present, as subjects of im portance will be introduced and discussed.

The annual inspection parade of the Auckland Engineer Company of volunteers will be held in the drill-shed on Wednes day evening next, when any member absent •without leave -will be struck off the roll.

A meeting of t!>e ratepayers of the Karangahape Highway District will be held on the evening of Monday, February 4th, for the purpose of considering the advis ability of forming a fire brigade, and provi ding funds for the maintenance of the same.

The monthly parade of the Victcria Com pany, A. R.V.," will be held this evening, in the drill-shed, when every member is requested to be present. A meeting will be held after the parade. The monthly inspection of the Hobson Company will be held at the same time and place.

At the Ladies' Meeting in the Choral Hall yesterday afternoon, Dr Somerville delivered an address on the advisability of forming a society to be called the Auckland Ladies' Christian Association. The sug gestion, was adopted by the meeting, and it was agreed, " That the qualification for membership should be—connection • with some evangclican Christian body, and the payment of an annual fee of 5s- and diat the constitution sketched out of Government by a president, vice-president, a committee of 12, and a treasurer and secretary be approved of." The Provisional Committee appointed at the previous . meeting was requested to prepare rules, draft a. constitu tion, and report at a future meeting, which will be convened by Mr Brackeniigg. This terminated the business.

A dividend of 53 per acrip shaite has been declared on the Moanatairi Company, payable on Thursday week.

In our report of Mr Shirley's evidencejin the Supreme Court yesterday, s^vei-al lines of Fiji news were inserted by a printer's blunder. The effect was to spoil two articles—the report of Mair'a trial and committal not appearing, and the first portion of the Supreme Court report being wholly unintelligible.

A special general meeting of the Templar Benefit Society will be held in in the Albert street Temperance Hall to-morrow evening, wn en a large attendance of members is re quested. The license of the Papakura Hotel has been transferred from Charles Luimer_ to James Mack, the former gentleman having taken the Globe Hotel, Papakura, from Thomas Hollywood. A- Tr W,|L, Bern, M. H. R., leaves Auckland for Napier by the Rotorua this afternoon, and will be followed shortly by Mrs Rees and family. Mr Rees has a large. amount of professional business awaiting him at Napier. Mr Rees' departure deprives Auck land of a professional gentleman in whose services clients hare reposed the utmost confidence, and a politician who has taken a prominent part in all matters of public importance affecting the Avelfare of the people. He is a gentleman whose presence Auckland can ill afford to spare at the present juncture, but it is satisfactory to know that he will have a large and re numerative professional business at Napier.

Mr Stephen Massett has had a splendid reception at his entertainments in Cam bridge and Hamilton. In the latter place on Monday, although it rained heavily, were were over a hundred ladies present. The " Waikato Times" says :—" It was wonderful to see the rapid changes of feel in" produced in the audience as the perfor mer played alternately upon the pathetic and comic sides of his audience, for on the recital of Poor Joe, a pin might have been heard to drop, and the death-like stillness as the unfortunate little fellow tried to re peat in broken accents the Lord's Prayer was almost painful. But the sombre cloud cast by this melancholy piccure was almost in stantly dissipated by his splendid mimicry of Madame Anna Bishop, and other celebrities. And the way Mr Massett passed from light to shade, and from pathos to fun, fully warranted the high encomiums he ha 3 re ceired from the press in all parts of the world."

Sunday-school teachers have a great deal to contend with in their laudable work of teaching the '"'young idea how to shoot," especially in some of the Auckland schools, and which they patiently endure without undue complaining. On Sunday last in one of the city schools a teacher had oc casion to find fault with several turbulent boys, when .the question was asked " What do you come to Sunday-school for?" to which smiling youngster replied "to learn to smoke my daddy's pipe." The teacher, slightly angered/raised her hand, but failed to smite the ear of that colonial boy on Christian principles. A young raan named Alexander, who was educated at the Wesley College, Melbourne, recently went home and tried tor the Balliol Scholarship at the Oxford University. He has succeeded in gaining it. This is the highest honor attainable at Oxford, and we are gratified that a •' Colonial" should have attained it.

A meeting of the Mount Hobson School Committee took place last night at half past seven, for the purpose, among others, of nominating two members for the Central Education Board. Messrs. F. McCrae and J. M. Lennox were nominated.

A notice appears in this issue warning New Golden rah shareholders whose calls are unpaid to pay before noon to-morrow ; failing which legal proceedings will be instituted.

gJMessrs E. and H. Isaacs will offer for sale to-morrow, per " Iron Queen," £1,600 worth of English-made furniture, as per advertisement. The Treasurer of Dr Somerville's Com mittee acknowledges with thanks from Dr. Kenderdine, £2 ; A. Heaver, 10s ; A Friend, 5s ; do. (cheque), £1 Is ; collection at the Choral Hall, £20 8s 7d.

Kelly and Leon's Miuistrels are passengers by the Zealandia from San Francisco through to Sydney. This company is well known, and have met brilliant success in the States. Among them is Mr Bennett Reid the Australian! tenor. They are to stay eight weeks in Sydney and twelve in Mel bourne. The Japanese Dwarf, a wonderful pigmy, only 3 feet high, accompanies the troupe in their peregrinations. Mr and Mrs, G. T. Chapman are passen gers from San Francisco by the Zealandia, naviner jufct returned from a trip home to Englarii They speak very highly of their treatment on board the Zealandia, and we are pleased to hear that they have enjoyed thoir trip.

WASTE LANDS BOARD

The fortnightly meeting of the Waste Lands Board was held this afternoon. Present: Messrs D. A. Tole (Chief Commissioner of Crown Lands), B. Tonks, J. May, Moatt, and Dr. Campbell. A number of applications relating to Crown grants, new roads, improvements, &c, were disposed < of. Several applications for lands for public purposes were granted. A number of sites for cemeteries were also allowed.

(Left Sitting.)

HARBOUR BOARD. —This Day.

A meeting of the members of the Harbour Board was held this afternoon in the offices, Fort-street. A. Present -./Messrs. Boylan (chair man),|Brown, Hill, Melton, Daldy, Kissling, Thornq, Isaacs, McKenzie, Masefield, and Cosgrave. X£TTERS. HA letter was received from the Under Secre tary of Public Works, informing the Board that the Minister of Public Works is unable to comply with the request of the Board with respect to an alteration of the roadway by Britomart station. A letter was read from the Town Clerk, informing the Board that the Council accep the allotments 17 and 18, opposite Hardinge street, for a reserve for a Bath, and asking the Board for the necessary documents, A letter was read from Mr Maclean, public accountant, to the effect that he had carefully examined the accounts of the Board, and found them correct; also, congratulating the Board oh the exact manner in which the books were kept, which reflect great credit on the officers of the Board. MR ERRINGTON'S REPORT. The report of the progress of the new dock, from Mr Errington, was received. REPORTS. The reports of the Works and Endowment Committees were read and confirmed. ACCOUNTS. The following accounts were brought up and passed, viz. :—General account, .£5,490 4s. ; loan account, £2,335 16s. Statement of funds : To balance in bank, £2,355 lOS- "d- ; cash on hand, £11 16s. Bd. Loan account : Bal n Bank, .£5,831 12s. id. ; accounts to be r>aid. /"a.-m 16s.

LINGARD'S BIGAMY.

Many of our readers will remember Mr Lingard, who played a successful season in Auckland some time ago in " Our Boys,'' when he was accompanied oy " Miss Alice Dunniqg," whose name appears in the following report of the divorce case " Thomas v. Thomas," heard before Sir R. J, Phillimore :—This was the peti tion of the wife for the dissolution of marriage on the ground of her hus band's bigamy and adultery. Mr It. Searle and Mr George Callaghan were counsel for the petitioner, a>Ld there was bo defence. The respondent, Thomas, a music-hall singej, known as." William Lin gard," was married to the petitioner on April 3, 1861, at St. Ann's Church, Lime-, house, and they afterwards resided together at various places in andaboutLondon,. there being issue of the marriage. A short time since the respondent went to. Portsmouth to fulfil a professional arrangement, and re fused to take his. wife with him, though, she req.ues.ted he would do so. While at Portsmouth, he went through a.ceremony of marriage with a woman named Alice Dunning at the registrar's office, Bristol, and committed adultery with her, he going by the name of Needham at the time. These facts were shortly proved, and Sir Robert Phillimore pronounced a degree nisi, with costs, as prayed.' The " Times" report of the case says that

the respondent "in June, 1866, contracted, at Bristol, under the name of Needhum, a bigamous marriago with another woman, and some time afterwards he went to Amer ica. On being served Avith the citation he appeared and filed an answer denying that he had been guilty of desertion, adultery, or bigamy, as charged against him, and he also instituted a cross-suit for a decree of nullity on the ground that his marriage with the petitioner was void by reason of an undue publication of banns. He, however, abandoned the suit, and the wife's petition now came on for hearing. The charges of desertion, adultery, and bigamy, as alleged against the respondent, were established, and his Lordship pronounced a decree nisi, with costs."

LATE FIJI NEWS.

We have Fiji papers to the 29th, from which we make the following extracts : — MAIR, OF THE CANTERBURY, COMMITTED FOR TRIAL. At Levuka, before the Chief Police Magistrate, Robert Henry fMair, late of Samoa, was charged with having on the first and second days of September last past, at Matautu, on the island of Upolu, assaulted James Harding with fire-arms, and with having forcibly imprisoned and i kept him in handcuffs without authority. In this case, it appeared that the defendant was the ringleader of a gang of armed men, who attacked the prosecutor and Mr Martin at .Samoa, in September last. Mr Harding and others were in a store, and the dofendantwith others forcibly broke open the door, which had been closed, and laid hands upon and by force handcuffed him, the prosecutor, after which, Mr Hard ing was violently pulled into a boat and taken on board the British schooner Canterbury, where he was left in irons until the morning of the third. On several occasions Mr Harding requested to be shown the authority for such treat ment, but was told by the defendant that he (defendant) had sufficient authority, and he refused to exhibit any warrant or docu ment authorising the arrest of Jas. Harding. When Mr Harding asked to be released, the defendant denied him that liberty. The British Consul, too, came on board, and was asked by the prosecutor if he had given any authority for his arrest, and received an answer in the negative. The case termina ting as far as the prosecution was concerned, Mr Solomon applied for a committal, and his Worship . told the defen dant that he could go into his defence in the lower Court, or reserve it until the matter be brought before the Supreme Court, and expressed his intention to com mit him for trial at the next Criminal Sittings of the Supreme Court, to be held on the 15th January. The defendant there upon asked for an adjournment until the 27th instant, which was granted, bail being allowed, himself in £100, and two sureties in £50 each.

MR BUCKLAND'S SHEEP FAIR.

(FROM OUR SPECIAL REPORTER.)

[PER "STAR" CARRIER PIGEON.]

This day, 12.30 p.m. ABOUT ten years ago Mr Buckland held his first annual sheep fair. The numbers of entries have gradually increased until they reached 12,000 in 1877, and in place of one day's sale it is now absolutely necessary to make two days of it. At first the fair was almost entirely confined to the farmers in the neighbourhood of 'Auck land, -whereas in later years sheep breeders from Northern and Southern districts have attended as buyers, and have also been glad of so excelient a means of disposing of choice classes of sheep. Mr Bucklaud's sheep fair has become a recognised institu tion. It has borne a high reputation throughout the province and colony, and is now a favourable resort foi intending purchasers. A tremendous load of sheep have just arrived by the special train from Wsiikato, some already arrived seem the worse for their trip, having been down in the trucks and trampled on, this is unavoidable. There are large - numbers penned, representing every variety and class both as to age and quality, from high breeds to the culls of nocks. Among those penned I notice good Lincoln ewes from Mr Jas. Wallace's flock, also from Messrs Joseph May and J. Dil worth. From Waiuku, Hoskins and others shew excellent sheep. Mr Barr Brown, of Waipipi, and I. S. Grahame, of Awitu, both have penned Lincoln sheep of high bred and -well selected animals from their flocks, the latter gentleman having de cided to reduce his numbers. A pen of Lincoln ewe lambs of Mr James May's are very fine, also those of Mr R. J. Taylor. Mr Murphy, of Flat Bush, has a pair of good ewe lambs. Mr W. J. Taylor's sheep have not arrived, and are not expected to be sent.

WONDERFUL DESTRUCTION OF A

RATA. Mr Heath, of Aririmu, gives information of an extraordinary flash of lightning, which he saw last Sunday evening strike a rata tree near his house, and dissolve it into a magmficentjshower of fireworks. The tree was burnt up with the fervent heat, and on visiting the spot the next morning, he found nothing out ashes to mark the spot where tife rata once reared its bulky form.

1.30 p.m. There is a considerable gathering of people. Host Jenkins is caterer for |the wants of the inner man, and has provided a varied and substantial repast. The bell is ringing for the sale to commence. It is expected that some good prices will be obtained, as there is really excellent stock, and a good show of buyers already on the ground.

2 p.m. gJThe following prices speak for the character of Mr Mays' sheep, which, thus far, have realised highest prices, and. also shews that there are some good buyers :— 24 ewes, Mathieson,. 8s 6d, Gardner; 40 ewes,' Maunders, 5s 6d, Gardner ; 45 ewes, J. Johns, Bs, T. Scott.; 20 Lincoln ewes, Wallace, lls 6d, Basanco ; 20 Lincoln ewes, W. Kerr, 12s 6d, J. S. Buckland ; 10 Lin coln ewes, J. May, 95s (each), R. Udy; 10 Lincoln ewes, J. May, 60s (each), Ban- Brown ; 25 Leicester ewes, J. Hayr, 8s 6d, 40 Lincoln ewes, J. Wallace, 6s, A. Jar vis ; 100 Lincoln ewes, D. Thomson, 19s, J. H. ■Scott.

SUPREME COURT.—Yesterday.

CIVIL. SITTINGS.

(Before His Honor Mr Justice Gillies and a

special jury.)

The Rangaribi Letter Case, shirley v_ g3srrand.

Mr Hesketh appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr Whitaker aaid Mr Tyler for defendant.

The evidence for the-prosecution appeared in our last issue.

(By a printer's error, fifteen lines of the proceedings in MaiPs case at Fiji were inserted in Mr Shirley's evidence).

James Gerrand, the defendant, deposed that he had- resided at Rangariri for the last four year 3, as a general storekeeper. On the 2l)st of April he wrote a letter to Mr Monaghau, blacksmith, of Panmure, to ask him if he would sell a parcel of land in the district.

The Setter was. produced and read,

Witness : He- gave that letter to Mr John Graham to post. The next day he saw Monaghan and told Mm he had written. He went to the post-office and fetched the letter, Avhen he discovered that it TKas in another envelope. He denied that he used, the words in the declaration.

Mr Hesketh referred to the slight difference in the evidence as to the exact words used by defendant, aittl asked the Conrt if it would be. necessary to amend the declaration. r ->

His Honor thought not. As the actual charge had been borne out by the evidence there was no necessity for the amendment suggested.

This. being the plaintiff's case, Mr Whitaker addressed the jury, and proceeded to call the three witnesses for the defence.

John H. Graham, a farmerg of the dftri trict, remembered posting a gMter on the 21st April to the Post-office, t.'angaru-i, ■written by Mr Gerrand, relating to his business. His attention was called to some informality in the address ; he opened t;:e letter, and put it into a fresh envelope. He saw Mr Gerrand the next day, and told him, wholly and truthfully, what nad been done to the letter ; he could not recollect Mr Gerrand's reply. William Monashan and George Hender son gave evidence to shew that they did not hear Gerrand utter the words alleged to have been used by him towards the plaintiff. Counsel on both sides having addressed the jury, His Honor went over the evidence, and the jury retired at a quarter to seven o'clock to consider the whole matter, and returned a verdict for plaintiff on all issues ; damages, £50. . Mr Severn was engaged to deliver another course of lectures in Sydney prior to his departure for England.

THE PAPAKURA RACES.

The following additional acceptances for these races were received at Papakura :— HURDLE RACE.— Bessy, Sportsman, and Nettle. , ' , . , Maiden Plate.—Kate and Glenbrick. Railway Handicap.—Belle of the Isles, Bessy, Glenbrick, and Kingfisher. Ladies' Purse.—Ravenshoe. Papakura Handicap. — Kingfisher, and Ravenshoe,,

LEVY'S CONCERTS.

The third of the Levy concerts was held last evening in the Theatre Royal, and was attended with success. The dress circle presented an encouraging appearance, but the lower part of the house was not so well patronised. The programme of the evening was well arranged, and included several splendid duets and ballads. The opening piece was a grand fantasia, the "Bride of Lammermoor" the composition of Signor Giorza, and performed by the composer in a manner which attracted considerable and well-deserved applause. The duet which followed " Sweet is the Dream," by Miss Pitts and Signorßosnati, music by Campana was an exquisite performance and happily rendered, the voices of the singers being in apt unison. "Out on the Rocks" a pretty English song, by Miss Pitts, was sung with excellent effect, in which this young lady found an opportunity of displaying her talent as a contralto singer. The aria " Stella Confidante" was powerfully given by Signor Rosnati, and Mrs Levy appeared to much advantage in the beautifully simple song " She wandered down the mountain's side." In the singing of this song, we noticed that Mrs Levy had not neglected the consideration of words nor thought the poetry of less consequence than the musical notes. To appeal to the hearts of audiences most impressively, singers should endeavour to sing with effect the words of the com position;, as frequently the poetry of the song is as beautiful and touching as the music. It' tvas undoubtedly in the distinct, emphatic enunciation of words that the. greatest artistes earned enduring success in the world. Mr Levy's performances on the cornet were charming, and met with enthusiastic responses, in fact, the audience would not rest satisfied until the famous minstrel answered with his instrument. His German air, "DuDu," " Silver threads among the gold," and the " Faust" waltz, won rapturous applause. The trios " The blue bells of Scotland," and " I'm not the Queen." We must not omit to notice Balfe's sweetly pensive ballard "You'll remember me," to which senti ment Miss Pitts did ample justice. The pianoforte performances and accompani ments of Signor Giorza, were excellent and worthy of tne appreciation manifested by the audience. An entirely new programme will be submitted this evening, embracing sever&ble notable solos and ballads.

The Company will appear in the Hamil ton Hall, Hamilton East, to-morrow (Wed nesday), when the inhabitants of Waikato will enjoy a rare musical treat. Levy and Company re-appear ;it the Theatre Royal, Auckland, on Thursday.

[ADVERTISEMENT.]

THE SCHOOLMASTER ABROAD.

(To the Editor of the Star.) Sir,— Being quite disgusted with the doings of the School Committee under the present chair man, I, in a courteous and respectful letter, tendered him my resignation. I received the subscribed reply, which I trust you will insert in your largely circulating paper for the edifica tion of the general public, and especially for the district from which it emanates.—Yours, &c, John Gall, Rangariri.

To Counolar John Gall, Esq. Sir,—lt is with! Deep regrate I have Reoived Your Notice of Resignation in the Rantrariri Scool Comitee a grater Calarnety I Bleave Never hapened in aney (Domunety if you Still Adhear To your Intention. Your Eemarcable Aquan tance with all Bisness of the destrick and being a member of that agust Body the Waikato Countey Councel you have been our guide in all Maters of Legal quibbel that it will be Impos able for us ever to Get on -without you and 1 .Bleave the News of your Resegnation will case a xloom over the Cristamus Holeydays Not even in Rangiriri but the hole of this Provanc whare Your Extrpmary abiliteys is known I hope therfore you will Just Ceep your oftse Till we get Rangiriri a Scolestick Establishment and I will do My Best to Get you the Billit of Pro fecer of Bush Law a chare of which I Bleave is to be Established. —I am yours, I. Gerrand, Rangiriri. P,S would you alow a Depotation of the Reaidants to present you with a pettion of Not Resinei—l. G.

Rangiriri 21st Desr 1877.

COURT OF PETTY SESSIONS.— This Day.

(Before Messrs A. K. Taylor (chairman), Allan O'Neil, Joseph Willcox, and Col. Nation, Justices of the Peace.)

A SINGULAE CHARACTEB.

A woman named Isabella Franklin was brought up on a charge of having no visible lawful means of living. Prisoner pleaded not guilty. Detective Jeffrey deposed that prisoner was. a residenti of Chancery-street, was continually begging, occasionally getting drunk, in short aiie -was a common nuisance to the neighbourhood. . Sergeant Clarke gave Bimilar evidence, and said the prisoner was a great nuisance in Queen-street.

Prisoner denied .the statement, and said she did scrubbing for a number of gentle men in the city.

William Hart Rouse came forward and; said he wished to speak a word in favour, of injured innocence. He was a, staunch, teetotaller. He had lived with. Mrs Franklin four yearn She was a good woman, but rather eccentric, and; he allowed her the means of support.. To Sub-Inspector Pardy:. He gave her 15s a week; He had been employed by Mr Choyce and Mr l*owe, of the W,hau. He was cohabiting with her, and was. not aware that, shet went begging. She was s most amiable, woman—never drurtJs, but subject to fits, which the police mistook for drunkenness. If the Bench would look over the offence this time he would see that she behaved herself in future.. The Bench.said* that the prisoner might be dismissed this time, but if she came | before thean again the Ism would take its course. Prisonar: Thank your Worships. I wish you all a. happy Nsw: Year. (Laugh ter). Isabella Hart Rouse was charged with being a neglected child' within the meaning of the Act, but as her protector had heen discharged, the Bench, allowed the child to be restored to its guardians* CHIMNEY ON FIRE. Henry P. Haydeu pleaded guilty to a charge of permitting his chimney to be on fire, on ihe 12th inst, and was fined 2s 6d, and costs. STREET INCIDENTS. Joseph Craig, of Custom House-street, was fined ss> and costs for having no license number of his public conveyance. James Gorman was fined £5 and costs for driving his horses at other than, a walking pace around the corner, of Weliesley-street

Hubert Oram, landlord of the ft; Arthur Hotel, Hobson-street, pleaded^** to a charge of having a dark lamp ov f^ entrance to his hotel on the nipht $ 20th instant. Kat <H ' Thß wind was rough, and wild the nitric The lamp was cracked out went tbeiw The fault was in the wicked wind, ** I But Nature could not well be fined • And so tho Bench, without delay, ' Held that "mine host" himself must pay Andrew Stokes, farmer of Mount Erf pleadf; I guilty to fast driving in q^ street,, to the terror of John Black; Frederick Howard, and was fined 5 S costs, ':^ilf IvKRGEaNT GAMBLE'S TROPHIES Patrick Gorman, hotel-keeper, of «L ' North Shore, was charged with having f unstamped liquid measures in his posse!; JMe Thorne pleaded not guilty on cci? grounds, namely : Mr Gorman som e t? months ago had sent the measures tol! stamped, and they were sent back, and 1 thought they were all rfght, but were« of the right shape. **'' < jjjgSergeant Gamble explained that iJ refused to stamp the measures because th were not of the right shape. *f Mr Gorman deposed that he did mS receive such a measure. "1 Fined 10s and costs. Richard Duder, storekeeper, was char* i with having two unstamped measures k his possession. Mr Duder said he had all his measuß. stamped but the two in question, VfaS were never used, had passed his memo* He had no desire to evade the law. Fined Is and costs. Oliver Mays was charged with asimiw unintentional, offence. Mr Mays said the weights were ink !■' possession, but were left some time ago fo a customer, in his care. He neren^ them. He would plead guilty to their being in his possession. The nieasto, were correct, but unstampted. Fined Is and costs. Thomas Shiel Haines, of Stokes' Pm Hotel, was charged with having five jj,. i stamped measures in his house. X measures were correct. Fined Is and costs. John G. Den by was charged with navai one measure and six weights, unstamped! his possession. Fined Is and costs in each case. This was all the business.

CABLEGRAMS.

«, (FROM OUR SPECIAL LONDON CORRESPONDENT.) The Peace Proposals. Proposed European Conference LONDON, January 20th. England proposes a conference in ci the belligerent powers refuse to agree It an armistice. The British Parliament is asked to graat : credit in readiness for war. ,

The Peace Negotiations.

LoifDON, January IJ. I; The Turkish envoy has arrived within ife Russian lines. An armistice is probable, and pseoe tk Disraeli has denied that there is a spl in the Cabinet. I The Queen's speech does not ask mj money for war purposes. Its tone is padsij r ■ and the country is peaceful.

AUSTRALIAN.

(SPECIAL TO THE «•" STAK.") Terrible Rainfall and Oyeloat SYDNEY.—THIS DAY. The rainfall in the colony has com menced, and the late severe drought i A terrible cyclone has occurred at Port

(PER PRESS AGENCY).

LATEST.

RUSSIANS ARRIVE BEFOBB ADRIANOPLB. TURKS EVACUATE THE OITT. TURKISH LEVY EN MASSE GENERAL* RISING IN THE® LONDON, Monday, ' The Russians arrived before Adriano^i and the garrison evacuated the city, retiffl! towards Constantinople. Sulieman Pasha called out all men cap* ble of bearing arms on military service, t» defend the line of Tchekemercha. HJThere is a general rising in Thessaly.' f yThe British troops have been sueeesan. against the Galekas after severe fighting. The Hotjse of Commons negatijtect » amendment on the address in reply* tat» Queen's speech. LONDON. COMMERCIAL. \ Consols, 94J. Bank rate of discount four -per •*JJ- > :; Market 3£ ocr cent. Wheat quiet, » ' steady. Tallow steady. Wool.qjiiefc, *J steady. Adelaide wheat unctoog*ll Flour, 44s 6d. Queensland four per cetf : £9410s Others unchanged. SHIPPING DESPATCHES. A cablegram to the Underwriters' As* ciatJo-n says the Armytage-barque, JK> 8,.; Lacepede Islands to the Uaited King* , put into Cape Town leaky, and will hate» ,i discharge cargo. The Assyrian sW frora Lacepede to the United Kinga°mF' ;in.to jjAloga Bay in distress, aadlwsw:; •■ condemned and sold. The ■ Handing* bacrqae, from London to Sydney, to** ; back after collision writhe; Falcon, -J* sailed again.

AUSTRALIAN CABLEGRAM.

SEVERE DROUGHT. SYDNEY, this daj. The Sydney Parliament meets t°"^ju There is severe drought throughout^ country, and great distress. THE OPENING OF THE IMPEBI# PARLIAMENT. LONDON, January* ■ The British Parliament was °P eil ef^ day by Royaft Commission. The bP**J alluded to the-proposals for mediation, a subsequent, appeal by the Porte- to British Govarnment, which agreed; to^ quire if the Emperor of Russia was prepay to entertain, proposal of peace thiPflijrAv. offices of ©island. The Speech ■ will lead to" a pacific solutios. »£ n;j. neither of the belligerents ha<s ip^gv the conditions of British nei*t*aMy>. *£ while that was respected the neutral attiV^ of England would remain uuciaflged- : $■ hostilities were prolonged some xmeX^L)t . occurrence may oblige England to a £ measures of precaution. As these quire adequate preparation, the VJ trusts to tt© liberality of Parliament supply tht>. necessary means. ,-, Ja»uarylft j On Fiidny the Ho\^e of Lords ag^. - without a division, to. the Address in *** to the Queen's Speeok $ In the Uomrauas, the debate on Address was adjourned, the Irish ™mlfc demanding that the subject of Home » should be taken under consideration. |

EVENING STAR TUESDAY, JANUARY 22. ],*nß



'mo AGRICULTURISTS & OTHERS W. J. HURST « CO. tave on sale the under mentioned Fertilizers, all of which have been proved to produce satisfactory results in this district. Experience teaches that large and profitable returns can be relied on by a judicious and liberal use of them. The flattering Testi monials from leading Farmers justify W. J. iJurst & Co. in strongly commending them to every Agriculturist:— MALDEN ISLAND GUANO PERUVIAN GUANO MEXICAN do BELilio rsONEPLOUR ~ i and J-inch BONEDUST BILLYARD'S No. 1 do. NITRATE OF SODA SULPHATE OF AMMONIA MURIATE OF POTASH SUPKR-PHOSPHATK OF LIMK. SALT, SULPHATE OF LIME. In addition to the above, W. J. H. & Co. are prepared to supply special Chemical Manures for stimulating weak Corn Crops, and renovat ing Clover-sick Pastures, as well as the Potato and Mangold mixture that last season attracted so much favourablenotice. Analysis, prices, and other particular* will hn supplied on application at the Stores. \V. J. HURST & CO., 181 q. ueen-s tree t, ci.c vjch seed, for spring sowing Just Landed, icx Columbus— '10 casks new Clovers, consisting of Red Clover White Clover Cow Gras Also on hand. Alsyhe, Timothy, Lucerne, Rape Rats-tail, Rye g;as3, Cocksfoot, &c, at lowest market rates. W. J. HURST & CO. }<tl, Q U X X N-S THICK'I'.



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



■]VriEW ZEALAND INSURANCE J3I COMPANY. REDUCED RATES FOR DETACHED DWELLIXG-HOUSttS :—ln the City, from 12s. upwards; in the Country, from 13a. GEOPGE P. PIERCE, «<^neral Manager. ADIES' UNDERCLOTHING ! CHILDREN'S UNDERCLOTHING!! AND BABYLINEN !!! W. RATTRAY, Having bought the Whole of Messrs Sargood, Son and Ewen's Large and Well-selected Stock of LADIES' AND CHILDREN'S UNDER CLOTHING & BABYLINEN, AT A LARGE DISCOUNT, Has marked them at proportionately Low Rates. Ladies are requested to call aijd inspect the Stock. ]>T X W 7KALAND TTOUSB, 66, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. P E C I A L NOTICE. Ladies and Gentlemen about to furnish are invited to inspect our extensive assortment of IMPORTED and COLONIAL FURNITURE. CARPET S.—Brussels, Tapestry. Kidder minster. Dutch. Felt, and Stair, at Prices as Low as any House in Tovjn. IRON BEDSTEADS.—HaIf Tester, French, Stamp and Folding, in great variety. New Patterns ex 'Otaki,' ' Fameuoth,' and 'Iron Queen.' LINOLEUM, FLOORCLOTHS, MATTING, HEARTHRUGS, TOILET-WARE, TOILET CLASSES, and an immense stock of DRAW ING, DINING, and BEDROOM SUITES, English and American CANE and WOOD CHAIRS, Meat Safes, Door Mats, &c, &c &C, at LOWEST PRICES. A Liberal Discmint o Cash Buyers. , T. & H. COOKE. Furniture Siwvrrooms 67, QUEEN-STREET. btca-.il Cabinet Factory VICTORIA-STREET. TTIXPIRATION OF "PARTNERSHIP TERM. DRAPERY AND CLOTHING AT 20 per Cent. REDUCTION ! "OUSHBROOK AND TVRIDGMAN. The abovenamed have decided {prior to Stock-taking), in order to facilitate adjustment of accounts, necessitated by the expiration of our term of partnership, to hold a f CLEARING-OUT SALE, g And will allow for a limited O ~ ■ period, a jg 5 DISCOUNT OF TWENTY PER » 2 CENT. UPON ALL CASH H H PURCHASES. • X O £ t3 4S.'IN THE £ OFF THE USUAL PRICES. {-j q z; Commencing on 5 FRIDAY, 11th JANUARY. "' H The Stock is Unusually Heavy, and £; Well-assorted in every H £3 Department. B «§S* * * g § R. & 8., with satisfaction, direct cj w attention to ths fact that since com- mencing business they have steadily M £ avoided all Selling Off. Cheap S Sales, &c. ; their aim having been to 2 fi supply a GOOD ARTICLE at a £q ?? REASONABLE PRICE, and "NO O PUFF," and deem that the simple © H statement of the fact is sufficient to cj convince their friends and the public i^ la of the bona fide character of the pre- § sent announcement. „ Goods Entered will be Charged Usual Prices. Country Orders, accompanied by remittance, will have prompt attention. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN, DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, &C, UPPER QUEEN-STREE" 1 Auckland, ( opposite the Army and Navy Hotel).