SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

moH WATKit-US§p*fw Morning, 7.12 wwn ■ repotting, 0. W £.UN S-ET. r Tbig^. 0W Morningi 6 . 7 cUN BJ feJWf--Full Mood, 19th, 8.46 a.m. MOON S:**-

ARRIVALS.

Taiaroa, s.s., Kennedy, from the South (in the Manukau.) Taiaroa, s.s., Kennedy, from Southern Ports Wana'ca. s.s., from Napier and the South Ruby, schooder, Cockfield, from Russell Pretty Jane, s.s., from Gisborne Nymphe, schooner, from Fiji.

DEPARTURES.

Go-ahead, s.s., Helander, for Gisborne Elate McGregor, schooner, Armstrong, for Lyttelton, via Whangapoua G-riffln, schooner, for Tairua Lr.zzie, cutter. Diaz, foi Wangapoua

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

Fo San Francisco—Australia, R.M.s., early For London—Lorraim-, barque, early; Chili, ship, early For Sydney and Melbourne—Hero, s.s., April 5. For Vauranga and the South—Wanaka, 21st; Hawea. 28th For Napier and South—l'otorua, s.s., Tuesday, 19th inst. For Sydney—Rotorua, s.s., April 2

IMPORTS.

Per Pretty Jane, from Napier : US hides.— Ireland Brothers. Per Pretty Jane, from Xapier: 500 sheep, 118 hides. Per Taiaroa, from the South : 1 case 1 octave, 1 package.—Henderson and Macfarlane. Per Nymphe from Fiji—662 bags sugar, 125 bags maize. 41 bags peanuts, 4 cases arrowroot, 1 case curios and a quantity of fruit.

The s.s. Wanaka, Captain A. D. McGillivray, arrived early this morning from the South. (She lefc Por> Chalmers on 11th March at 1.40 p.m.; Lvttelton 12th, at 10.15 p m.; Wellington on the 15th at 12.15 p.m.; Hawke's Bay on 15th, at 7.45 p.m. : Poverty Bay on 16th ; aud Tauranga yesterday at 4.15 p.m. Light winds and fine from Otago to Lyttelton; thence to Wellington Strong north-west winds ; remainder of passage light westerly winds and fine. Pas sengers—Saloon: From Dunedin—Mrs Turnbull. From Lytte'.ton—Mr and Mrs McKenzie, Miss McKeczie. Captain Carey, Captain Fraser, Mr Main. From Wellington—Mr Edwards, Mr and Mrs Glasgow, Misses Glasgow (4), Masters Glasgow (7), and 3 servants. Mr Peny, Miss C'Halloran, Mai or Paul. From Napier—Mr Gollan, Miss DePelichet, Messrs. Brown, Clark, Judd, Grant. From Poverty Bay—Messrs. Morgan, Hickson. Hargreaves, Brown, Martin, Adair. From Tauranga—Mrs Witt, Mrs Fraser, Mrs Bedlingto:), Mr and Mrs Buchanan, Messrs Steel, Murphy, Brown, Bailey, Hutchin son, Jordan, and 25 steerage. We are indebted to Mr Pringle, purser, for files and report or the Taiaroa left Lyttelton at 3.30 p.m. on the 14th, arrived at Wellington at 2 p.m. on the 15th; sailed at 8,30 p.m. the same day, and arrived at Nelson at 8 a.m. on the 16th; sailed a°"aui at 6 p.m.. and arrived off New Plymoth at 10 a.m. on the 17th; left again at 7 p.m., arriving at Manukau at 9 o'clock; this morning. Passengers—Saloon— Mesdames Maling, Cleg horn, Carrick, Gilmour, and Stone, Misses Car rick a.nd Gore, Messrs i 'unningham, Brown, Richardson, Perkins, Manning, Pugle, Paton, Titien, Randall, Poole, Thompson and brother, and 6 steerage- _ - The Auckland Steamship Company s s.s. Go-ahead left on Saturday afternoon for Gisborne. Passengers : Mrs Sceats and two adults, Mr. Liddle, Miss Roley, Mr Broodust, Mr. Benson, Miss Sykes. Tte schooner Kate McGregor, Captain Arm strong, left on Saturday evening for Whanga poua, where she will load with timber for Lyttelton. , . . The s.s. Argyle did not make her usual trip to Coromandel this morning, in consequence of having to undergo an overhaul on the gridiron. The~bngantine Augusta is loading with totara piles at Hokianga for the Manukau. The schooner Rosannah Rose has sailed from Hokianga with a cargo of baulk timber for The HJVI.s. Wolverine has left Wellington for Auckland. The schooner Hannah Bloomneld sailed from Wellington for Kaipara on Saturday. The s.s. Pretty Jane, Captain Eccles, arrived in harbour from Gisborne on Saturday evening. The schooner Kenilworth, from Auckland, and the brigantine Sarah and Mary from Kaipara, arrived at Lyttelton on Monday last. The schooner Onward, Captain Rae, sailed from Lyttelton for Auckland on the 11th. The *'Lyttelton Times" states that on the arrival of the steam launch Eclipse at that port from Auckland, Mr Croll, Inspector of Machi nery, made an examination of her boiler and machinery and expressed himself quite satisfied with them. , The ship Pleiades which arrived at Lyttelton from London on the 11th, spoke the ship Fon tenoye for Auckland, 29 days out, in 13deg. 17min. North, 25 deg. 37min. West. The cutter Mana entered inwards to-day from Tairua, with 24,000 feet sawn timber, and 104 bags kauri gum. The cutter Isabella entered inwards to-day from Omaha, with 20 tons firewood and '2,000 trundels. , The schooner Ruby arrived yesterday from R,usse 1, with 60 ton 3 coal. The cutter Coraiie leaves this evening for Tairoa, in ballast. , The nutter Janet has entered inwards trom Whanscarei, with 1,200 bushels lime. The cutter Whangarei entered inwards to-day from Russell, with 48 tons coal. The cutter Phoenix arrived to-day from Russell, with 46 tons coal. The ketch Fanny Kelly entered inwards to day from Tairua, with 27,000 feet timber. The cutter Spitfire cleared an the Customs to day, and will sail for Russell this evening, with 10.000 feet timber. . ~.,., ?^The schooner Xympe, Captain Robbie, left Levuka oil March 3rd. Passengers—Messrs. John McKissack, George McKissack, Neilsen, "Watson, McConnel, and Captain Gurblen. We are indebted to the captain for Fiji files. /

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails wilt. Close as Under:— For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m.; and to-mor row, at 9.30 a.m., and 1.30 p.m. For Coromandel, per Durham, on Wednesday

next, at 11.30 a.m. For Russell, Wangaroa, and Mongonui, per lona.

this day, at 4 p.m. For Taranaki, Southern Provinces, and Aus tralian Colonies, per Taiaroa, to-morrow at 5 a.m. For Tairua, per Mercury, to-morrow, at 9 a.m. For Waiwera, Kawau, Omaha, Omaha, and Matak-na, per Annie Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Napier, Southern Provinces, and Aus tralian Colonies, per Rotorua, to-morrow, at 3 For money orders, registered letters and neAvspapera, at 2 p.m. Late letters till 3.20 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Argyle, to-morrow at 4 p.m. For Whitianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowena, Wednesday next, at 4 p.m. Per s.s. City of Sydney, on Tueßday, April 2nd, as follows:— For Sandwich Islands, United States Of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 3 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europel at 3 p.m. For money orders, registered letters and newspapers, at 1,30 p.m. Late letters bearing an extra fee of sixpence in addition to the post age will be received by the Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

BIRTH.

TAYLOR.—On the 14th instant, at Ft. Mary's Koad, the wife of Albert Taylor of a daughter.

MARRIAGE.

HOOKER—EUSTACE.-On the 13th March, 1878, at St. Mark's Church, Remuera, by the Yen. Archdeacon L. Pritt, J. C. A. Hooker, third son of S. Hooker, Esq., of the Whau, to Anna Maria Kustace, eldest daughter of Mr* A. Eustace, of Newmarket.

DEATH.

BASSETT.—On the 16th March, W. T. Bassett,

aged 47 years. CHAMBERS.—On the ICth instant, at her parents' residence, Somerset Place, Howe street, Anne Elizabeth Chambers, daughter of Moses and Sarah Anne Chambers, aged 14 years. DALLEN.—On the ISth March, IS7B, at her parents' residence. Canada-street, Auckland, New Zealand, Elizabeth Jane, infant daughter o7 W. JL). Dallen, aged 8 mouths. The funeral will taue place on Wednesday, ii 20th instant, at 3 p.m. Friends please accept tbis invitation.'

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

MONDAY, MARCH 18, 1878.

iftw tits csrta that lacfes. sssixunca, Fat tfca wroug that seeds icslsiaac* for tiie fotme l« the dislsaacc,

Sir George Grey's reception at Christ church is the greatest popular triumph he has yet achieved in NeAv Zealand. From Canterbury has come the chief opposition to his measures ; against the ranholders and shoddy aristocracy of Canterbury have been hurled many of his denunciations ; and it was Canterbury that suffered mo>t from the colonialisation of the land fund. Before his arrival at the provincial capital, telegrams predicted that he would not venture upon any public appearance ; but those avlio sup posed anything of the kind knew very little of the Premier's character. Mr Rolleston, ex-Superintendent of Canterbury, and a deserter from Sir George Grey's party, Avent to the meeting Avhich had been convened for Saturday, resolved to turn the tide of popular resentment upon the daring intruder. The event shewed that he had made a slight error in his calculations. The meeting Avas with difficulty persuaded to listen to him at all ; and Avheu, by the exertions of the Mayor, the storm of hisses subsided, the hon. member attacked the Premier precisely on that point which Avas least likely to attract the' sympathy of a democratic audience. Mr Rolleston's defence of the hybrid colonial titles which are multiplying in the land, AA ras ill-advised. The uproarious marks of approval which follOAved Sir George Grey's denunciation of titles limited to the colony, and yet over which the colonists have no control, Avas precisely Avhat any man possessing an ordinary insight into the feelings. of the people might have foresccu. Mr Kolleston, has, however, shewn on more than one occasion that the selfishness of the traditional Canterbury party has neutra lised many of his good qualities, and is carrying him farther and farther away irom popular sympathies. It is strange that Mr Rolleston and other members o* the same school do not yet fully perceive the distinc f ion betAveen their OAvn policy of appealing to jnd protecting class interests, and Sir George Grey's programme resting simply on broad general principles. The creed of the Canterbury party would find no sympathy beyond the borders of that provincial district—the political platform formulated by Sir George Grey, is as applic able to Canterbury as to Auckland, Wel lington, or Dunedin. It constitutes the basis on which may be established a Ncav Zealand Liberal or Democratic party. Major Atkinson, Mr Rolleston, and their friends, are Avelcome to the more aristocratic title of Conservatives. This division of parliament into two parties, each in consonance Avith the natural bent of the interests and sympathies of a large section of the people, possesses many advantages. A strong and vigilant Opposition performs important functions in the work of parlia mentary government, and is absolutely necessary to pure and careful administra tion and prudent legislation. There is a fair promise that this division Avill be come consolidated in NeAV Zea land, and the interests of parlia mentary government cannot but be benefitted by the change. The star of liberalism and reform is now in the ascen dantthroughout the colony, forrcasons which may readily be found in the pandering to class interests that distinguished the late Governmeut. And the people of Christ church haA'e been too long eye witnesses of the system overthrown by Sir George Grey's elevation to office not to Avelcome his advent as peculiarly opportune.

A handsome presentation has been made by the teachers connected with the Board of Education to Mr R. J. O'Sullivan, Inspector. The present consists of a number of books, accompanied by the fol lowing address :—"ToKJ. O'Sullivan, Esq., Inspector of Schools for the Educational District of Auckland : Dear Sir, —On behalf of the teachers of the Education District of Auckland, we desire to assure you of the admiration and esteem we entertain for your character and abilities, as displayed in the manner you have discharged the onerous duties of the office of Inspector of Public Schools. We have observed with satisfaction the zeal and judgement, as well as the strict impartiality, which have characterised your administration, and we teel that such qualities call for recogni tion on our part. As a small token of appreciation, we desire your acceptance of tneaccompanyiugvolumes; and we trust you may long be spared to exercise a controlling influence iv educational matters in this district. Signed on behalf of 172 teachers." The address has been beautifully illuminated and engrossed by Mr James Slator. the de sign being taken from the Harleian manu script—l6th centmy—iu the British Museum.

Barbarous customs of other days have not been wholly eradicated from our midst. A resident of Freeman's Bay was to be seen yesterday (Sunday) morning, reclining over his fence, and enjoying a cock-fight, which he was doing his best to make as exciting as possible. The disreputable sight was put an end to by another person, when the birds were exhausted and almost dead.

The members of the Auckland branch of the Hibernian Benefit Society marched out yesterday morning, headed by the Hobson Baud, and accompanied by a number of the seamen of H.M. ship Nymphe. The members of the Hibernian society Avere arrayed in showy regalias of the order, and Erin's green. The band played a parting tune to the men of the Nymphe on the wharf. In the evening, the Rev. Father O'Dwyer delivered an interesting discourse in St. Patrick's Cathedral on the " Life and Times of St. Patrick," exhorting the congre gation to imitate the virtues of the patron saint.

Superintendents Thomson and Shearman returned on Saturday evening to Auckland from their tour of inspection in the Wai: kato.

The Auckland Grammar School defeated the Parnell Grammar School, in a cricket match in the Domain on Saturday.

The cricket match in the • omain on S&t urd.iy between the- Pa pa k urn and Epsom Clubs was wan in the lirst innings by the Epßom men, who had 37 runs to spare.

The annual tea-meeting of the Ponsonby Baptist Sunday-school will be held to-mor ioav evening in the school building, after Avhich the choir will sing solos and hymns, aDd addresses will be delivered by Rev Messrs Duttou, Taylor, and Runciman, Mr F. Larkins, and others. The Rev C. M. Nelson, of St. Paul's.de livered the second of his Lenten discourses last evening on " Our Talent 9," the subject of the discourse being "Money," and the text " If, therefore, ye have not been faith ful iv the unrighteous mammon, avlio Avill commit to your trust the true riches?" from St. Luke, xvi., 11. The reverend gentle man spoke (1) of the use of money ; (2) the abuse of money; aud (3) hoAV to spend money. The discourse throughout Avas of a practical cnaracter, aud in the course of his remarks Mr Nelson reminded his con gregation that St. Patrick's Day was also the thirty-third anniversary of St. Paul's Church. The collection Avas rather better than usual.

The folloAving swimming races took place after Aye Avent to press on Saturday : —Long Dive, for boys under sixteen —T. Harris, 1; H. Anderson, 2. Undress in the Water — T. Kelly, 1; A. Yates, 2.

A cricket match played in the Domain on Saturday between the Mount Eden and Victoria Cricket Clubs, resulted in a victory for the former by 30 runs. The boAvling of Cromwell, Mogine, and Done for the. Victorias, and Ellis and Lankham for their opponents, avus extremely good. The Rev W. J. Williams, AA'ho is about to leave Auckland for the South, AV_ill de liver the inaugural address this evening, in Pitt-street, before members of the Wes leyan Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association. The chair Avill be taken at half-past seAen o'clock.

Superintendent Hughes acknoAvledges Avith thanks the sum of tAvo guineas from the South British Insurance Company, through A. Boardman, Esq., towards the Auckland Fire Brigade Library. MrM. BroAvne, late agent for the Soldene Company has become agent for Mr. Stephen Massett. Mr Massett has been playing to good houses. . Judge Harvey has been installe" as P.G. M. of the Masonic Order for the Middle Island.

Another native embroglio has occurred at Rotorua, where Messrs Moou and Drum mond Hay have fallen into the hands of the Philistines of the Tuhourangi tribe. It appears that, finding the natives obstinately opposed to a survey being made of the Hora hora block, the two Europeans determined upon a moonlight excursion, in order to accomplish a survey. The natives, lioav ever, got Avind of the intention, and pounced upon the surveyors at dawn, seizing their instruments, and carrying off the surveyors to durance vile in the Parekarangi Pa. The natives have referred the matter to the Government, aud meantime the surveyors are held as hostages. Messrs. Morrison and Warren, chairmen of the Newton and Arch Hill Boards, Avaited on the hon., the Colonial Secretary this morning to protest against the the pro posal to drain the pond near Mount Eden through their district. Papers on the subject Avere laid before Col. Whitmore, who will consider the matter and reply officially. We believe, however, that the Government Avill not be disposed to take any side in the controversy, but will leave the disputants to fight the local question out between themselres.

Homy Clayton, of Drury, is gazetted a public vaccinator. The appointment of Mr S. Leers, of Auck land, to be a cestificated accountant in bankruptcy is gazetted. The body of the young girl found in the Avon river, Christchurch, proves to be that of Margaret Owens.

An American paper says :—" Brigham Young's bust sells sloAvly among his Avidows at 1 dol.

We have been requested to contradict the statement that Miss Vaughan will assist at Mr Harding's forthcoming concert. The name crept into the paragraph by mis take. We understand that the preparations which are being made for the concort are such as cannot fail to ensure an entire success.

INQUEST.—THIS DAY.

An inquest Avas held this afternoon on the body of Thomas Richards, who was acci dentally killed at the Whau on Saturday. Evidence was taken, after Avhich the jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

THE NATIVE MINISTER AT THE THAMES.

At Ohiuemuri the Native Minister was presented with an address by Mr C. F. Mitchell, on behalf of the European resi dents. At Mackaytown he secured the consent of the natives to the proposed road. Tukukino sent an influential deputation to the Native Minister, inviting him to visit the settlement. At the meeting at Paeroa Mr Sheehan told the natives that he was deterrnidod to take land for roads and boidges wherever the public convenience might require. At Omaha, Te Aroha, Mr Sheehan was welcomed by 300 natives bearing tosches, and a war dance was per formed. After a long discussion the natives agresd to put the land through the Native Land Court, so that the titles might be in vestigated. On his return to Grahamstown the Mayor aud Mr Roavc, M.H.R., pre sented a petition from 400 miners, prrying for the establishment of a Government assay office at the Thames. Mr Sheehan promised to communicate with his colleagues on the subject. In reply to a deputation of work ing men. The Native Minister said steps would be taken to place at the.disposal of the Waste Lands Board all blocks iv the Thames district available for settlement.

PAEROA, Satuuday. MR. SHEEHAN'S VISIT TO PAEROA,

Great satisfaction is expressed here at the result of the visit of the Hon. Native Minister. His speeches to the natives were distinguished by frankness and boldness. At the commencement of the meeting, Hata Paka, Tukukino's, remarked that Mr Sheehan came amongst them like a doctor to heal their ailments.

. Mr Sheehan in reply siad one condition necessary to the recovery of a patient was that he should like the remidies that were recommended, though sometimes they were bitter and might not be agreeable. If the natives desired to derive any benefit from his treatment they must take the remedies he prescribed. He said if they wished to be like Europeans, they must conform to to the necessary conditions. He urged them strongly to educate their children, without which they could not hope to see them fill their places in society, but they must descend to the position of heavers of wood and drawers of water. He would assist them to the atmost of his power to promote schools. He also urged them to abandon and to discourage the estab lishment of grog shops in the district. A measure would be introduced next session to put down these evils.

ANOTHER OUTBREAK OF FIRE.

On Saturday evening an alarm of fire in Kirangahape road drew together a large concourse of peoplh. A volume of smoke Avas seen issuing from the upper storey of Mr Phillip's house, on the city side of the road. On going up-stairs the window blinds and the bed were discovered to be on fire ; the paper on the wall was also scorched. Water was immediately applied, the flaming curtains pulled down, and the fire, fortunately seen in time, was subdued. The cause of the fire was no mystery : a lighted candle had been left by some one on the table near the window, and the curtains, blown by the wind, caught fire. This, which is the most likely cause of the fire, has been doubted; and it has been suggested that the fire resulted from a spark from a chimney coming through the open window. Fortunately, however, the premises of Mr Phillips -and those of Mr Gurrett, next door, were saved by timely aid.

CABLEGRAMS.

STATE OF WOOL MARKET.

[From our special Correspondent.]

LONDON, January 16th. Wool shews less animation. Fleece greasy has declared a half-penny to a penny compared with opening rates. Scoured sells readily; cross-breds shewing an ayer 1 age rise of one penny compared with last closing rates.

[SPECIAL TO THE MELBOURNE " ARGUS."] . LONDON, March 12. Arrived : The Orari, from Wellington, which sailed December Bth.

AUSTRALIAN

CRICKET MATCH POSTPONED.

[PRESS AGENCY.] MELBOURNE, March 16. The match with the Australian Eleven is postponed for a week in consequence of the inclemency of the weather. Meanwhile they will play at Ballarat.

To-days's Despatches.

(PEE REUTERS AGENCY.)

Monster Anti-Catholic Meeting.

Policemen and Military Bendy.

The Chimbarazo's Passengers,

SYDNEY, this day.

The s.s. Australia has arrived

The Key. Allen, Baptist Minister, hel forth to-day in Hyde Park against Roman Catholicism. Fifteen thousand people assembled.

As a sectarian riot was feared one hundred policemen were present, and the military were ready to be called out. Xhe passengers by the Chimborazo have been brought safely to Sydney. Twenty feet of the vessel's keel is gone, but it is believed she will be readily brought on to Sydney for repairs.

EAST TAMAKI RACES.

Judge : Mr. Samuel Morrin. Stewards : Mr. Alfred Buckland Mr. W. J. Marks Mr. Charles Roberts Mr. James Rowe Starter: Mr. E. P. Donnelley. Clerk of Scales : Clerk of the Course : Mr. W. J. Marks Mr. T. Stephens

Two North Shore boats left for the course at eleven and half-past eleven this morning. On board we noticed nearly all the familiar faces we are accustomed to see at local meetings; also several of the most notable settlers from the Kaipara. The racing commenced at

HANDICAP HURDLE itACE of 25 soys., second horse to save stakes. Distance, 2 miles, over 8 flights of hurdles. 3 p.m. Mick beat Magician. Only two ran. Betting 6t04 ou Mick. Almost a walk over. Mick ... 1 Magician ... ... ... 2 MAIDEN PLATE of 15 soys. Second hoise to save stakes. Distance, li miles. Weight for age. For all horses who have never won an advertised race of the value of 15 soys. Entrance, 1 soy. Staverton ... ... ••• 1 Tlie Baron ... ... ... 2 Mick 3 Won by six lengths. Betting 6tp4 on The Baron ; 3 and 4 to 1 any other. ST. PATRICK'S H ANDICAP of 30 soys. Second horse to save stakes. Nomination, 1 soy. Acceptance, 1 soy. Distance, 2 miles. The Don ... ... ... 1 Golden Crown ... ... ... 2 Derby ... ... ■• ••• 3 Betting even on the Don ; 3to 2 against Golden Crown ; 3 to 1 the others. Won by a length. A good race.

FLYING STAKES of 20 boys. Second horse to save stakes. Weight for age. Distance, | miles.

AN ORCHESTRAL REHEARSAL.

By Hamilton |Clabke,

(From the Choir.)

A LARGE town in the North of Ireland

The band composed partly of professional musicians and partly of amateurs ; the pro fessionals fairly amenable to orchestral d iscipline, the amateurs not so. Two or three times during the season a grand concert was given by the society in the great hall of the town, on which occasions the orchestra was augmented by the engagement of certain musicians from a city about a hundred miles to the south, and by a few bandsmen belonging to the line regiment quartered in the town. On the morning of the concert a general rehearsal was held in the large hall, as might be a review of troops combined for the occasion. One of these rehearsals shall be described.

Twelve o'clock noon. The orchestra assembling. The proceedings commence by the second flute upsetting the carefully-made arrange ment of the orchestra by carrying away his desk in a north-westerly direction, leaving that of the first flute iv a position of hope less " widower-hood ;" second flute re proachfully remarking, in explanation of his motives, that he could not play his part "with the drums thundering in his ears." (Note.—Second flute one of the committee, and, therefore, to be conciliated.) An excellent double-bass player from the far city respectfully salutes the conductor, and says, " I believe, sir, that my engage ment stated that I should find an instru ment at my disposal ?" •' Quite right." Replies the conductor. Inquiries instituted on the spot. A coin mitteeman, owner of the instrument in question, is appealed to. He sits in a corner of the side gallery, revelling in the mischief his vindictiveness is about to work. The conductor has been appointed contrary to this gentleman's wishes, and he had upon conscientious principles, involving the interests of the society, been, unfortunately, obliged to oppose the said committee-man at a meeting a short time previous. Thus, owing the conductor a double grudge, be had, at the last moment, without any notice of his intention, sent his double-bass away. A contra-bassist in the orchestra (local) is applied to ; but he is an amateur, and his friends take tickets to come and see him play. His dignity forbids him, therefore, to give up his instrument. So a band of nearly sixty is to contain two double-basses—one who can play a little, and one who cannot play at all; while one who plays superbly is sent away with his terms in his pocket. This is one of the auspices under which is to be given the first conceit under the new conductor's directorial reign.

The progranime—the various items ill which will this evening be presented to an audiance at all times sufficiently critical, but expected to be on this occasion peculiarly so, as it will number many members of two rival societies, to say nothing to those sceptical as to the merits of the conductor, ay ho is a very young man—contains the fol lowing pieces : — 1. A Symphony by Beethoven. 2. An Overture by Kaliwoda. 3. An Overture by Auber. 4. A MS. Overture by the Conductor. 5. An Orchestral Concerto for violon cello. 6. Accompaniments to several vocal pieces. 7. Accompaniments to two operatic choruses. The conductor takes his place. " Where is the first oboe ?" asks he. A voice replies that he is at the " Ware us."

" Where is th&first flute ?" He is the parish-clerk, and it is the day for pew-rents. " Where is the first corr.etT' He is the hon. sec. to the society, and i*

in the committee-room, selling tickes and allotting reserved seats. " Where is the second horn ? Gone away in high dudgeon, no one but himself knows why. > "Where are the second and third trom bones ?" . -~ ~ They are soldiers, and this morning the regiment is out route-marching. " Where is the drummer ?" Well, where he ought to be, but tipsy, and fast asleep. With such resources as are at his com mand, the conductor gives the signal for commencing the Symphony, which will be the critical test in the evening's doings At this moment a committee-man rushes up to the conductor, and announces that the Italian cantatrice, the Signora P:; > anna Bellodonna (who has been engaged i.s the " star" vocalist), has just sent a message from her hotel, saying that she .is too un well having "received bronchitis," to come to rehearsal, and that Heir Becher yon Zweiback, the solo-pianist, Avill take the bank through her songs. The conductor informs the committee man that, if the Siguora does not choose to attend the rehearsal, the only accompani ment she can expect will be that of Heir Becker on the pianoforte. But the man of office is not to be so easily disposed of. Great public singers must not be hustled about as if they were the mere composers of symphonies and such-like stop-gags in <n-eat public entertainments. Ihe heart of the representative official swells in his bosom, and the conductor is as an hired servant among many. Other committee men gather round, and a discussion ensues. A decision by the majority is, however, at length given in favour of the conductor, bui not until some valuable time has been lost, to the visible increase of the impatience of the band.

Again the conductor essays to commence. The offside second violin at desk No. 3 has let his G string down, and pleads for a moment's delay, to the infinite disgust of his companion at the desk, an old doctor with green spectacle?, who dines every day at one-thirty sharp. Beethoven's symphony is now going to be attacked in earnest, when the principal violoncello (note ! a committee-man, and to be conciliated), with an air of imperturbable innocence, laconically asks the conductor what they are " going to try over ?" He is informedas to the exact nature, name, and description of the piece about to be tried over. "Then" inquires he, with sublime patience (a quality that the conductor finds waning Avithiu him), " what does Mr So-and-so intend when he gives me the baas-part of a Symphony by Mazart to play ?" There is no appeal from an argument like this, Eight is on his side. There is nothing for it but to wait patiently, and keep the orchestra wait impatiently, until the right part is brought by the libiarain." At last, once more, the conductor strikes his desk, and gives the signal to commence. The effect, as the conductor too well knows, will be meagre with so many principal in struments way; but this mental recources can furnish him with with no reasonable excuse for the frightful discord that prevails through the first four bars. He stops in utter dismay. He knows the miscreant success, but ■will give him another chance, before hold ing him up to public disgrace above his fellows.

They start again, a similar effect being realized.

" Mr B ! " cries the conductor in anguish, " are you aware for which clarinette this symphhony is written ? " Mr B. with dignity, for he his on the Boa d of Guardians —" Yes, Mr C."

" What is it?"

" The B clarinette-, Mr C. " " Then may I ask to what ingenuity of complex reaEOaing we are indebted for your pc rferring to play on the A clarinette ?" <4 Why, the fact is, Mr C., I regret to say that I have bioken one of the keys on my B clarinette."

" Then for Heaven's sake get it mended, and don't play again until it 13 !" Mr 8., to whom the mystery of trans position was a sealed book, thought it was better to'play in the key of four sharps with every one else in one in one flat, jthan not to play at all. This was conscientious, though misguided in the result. Another start. This .time they dash on for some eighty or ninety bars, when a dead silence occurs. Arrived at this point, a a viola was scraping away with great energy by itself, with the most prise-worthy disregard of everything but personal duty. This time the enemy was the president of the society. This old gentleman throughout his youth and the best years of his man hood, haddevoted himself to horsemanship, and had been distinguished in|many counties, as a bold and fearless rider of steeple-chase When edvancing years, however, had warned him that his hand was no longer capable of grasping the reins, he commenced a diligent study of the violin, and viola, as pastime more suitable to his increasing feebleness of nerve and muscle.

The conductor cries in a tone of apology, " Mr D., I am sorry to trouble you with a remark, but—the whole of the band have missed two bars, and left you behind."

Before the symphony can be re-com menced a commotion s.iises, and there is ushered into the hall by several of the committee a huge mass of silks, laces, and furs, somewhere in the interior of which is expected to be imbedded the personality of the Siguora Parafina Belladonna, the bundle being steered into the room by the Herr Becker yon Zweiback, a forbidding-faced autocrat, covered with hair a great part of which belongs to himself, and the remainder having at some former time grown on a bear; both these hiisute coverings, especially the latter, seeming perfectly natural and in keeping. The signora is coming to try over the songs, and the conductor is officially iu formed that the rchersal with her and the band must take place at once.

The attempt to smooth down for the evening's exhibition some of tae all but impossibilities of this noble symphony, toghether with the minor, but still import ant, claims of the other orchestrrl pieces, becomes a secondary importance, is post poned, pna finally abandoned. Everything is left to chance.

The signora would drive the conductor mad with her exacting frivolities, and the murderous looks of the Bear would alarm him, were he not already far past the reach of further torment.

The symphony commenced the evening's concert. The hall was with both friends and enemies of the society and of the con ductor.

: -.-Many of the amateurs in the band, at the time of commencement, divided their atten tion between the music on their desks and the arrival of their various parties of friends. Many geenteel families of the town and neighbourhood did not consider it discreet to sit and be started at before a concert com menced ; consequently, the first two move ments of the sympnony were scarcely audi ble to the conductor himself.

In some of the newspapers notices of the week the "new conductor" got soundly rated for the " unsteadiness of the band" and his '' obvious want of control over them." The Italian signora was lauded to the skies.

THE DARGAVILLE REGATTA.

PREPARATIONS FOR THE EVENT.

[From Our Own Correspondent],

Dargaville, March 14th. A •*■ the present time a stranger arriving in the flourishing township of Dargaville, Northern Wairoa, would be astonished at the activity displayed in the numerous workshops, tht proprietors working early and late, the sounds of hammers being heard during the best part of the night, and in the day time at meal hours knots of men discussing mysteriously certain matters. He soon finds out that these preparations are being made forthe " Northern Waiioa Annual l.egatta" which takes place at Dargaville on Wednesday, the 20th March, and on joining one or other of the groups

is astonished to ffhd the amouattf^ 55 that is being taken therein Tt ln^e^ to be a "perfect success." Avesse&K" gaville has just had built speoiaii at- I the trade, licensed to carry 83 adult y fi)r gers, will take a trip about 100 asse '» the river, to fetch down Whangare? • ? ttP the afternoon before Regatta Day r V* 1*")1* in time for the Eegatta. Such /n^ trinity seldom happens for people in vJ*^' through three days enjoyment iLn es proceed to discuss the different evoZ^T ?°* are to take place. ents *H ■ The first race is " The Amatoi, o Eacn." Two new outrigger boats h* T& .built, one by Mr Waymoiuh foSi^ who is likely to be a tough cus/omS^ other was built by Mr Harrison for hi who is by no means to be sneeJed at- th° n> are several others going to pulT fc f e^ only one who has a chance, and opinion will win, bar his wrist'eivino^ ?.? Fred Wilson, who wiien strippediA^; , means a chicken, I therefore give ht Do tip and intend to puton him." m tty The second race will bring a numhm. entries, probably 10 or 15, but should B son not be pumped out in the first raw 31?' will pull it oft—has a very neat strokp »L , 39 to 41 to the minute, and hasgoodsw" powers. ° 3rd Eace.—Thesailing race for open w 25ft and under. This race has caS • ' niense excitement. It was to it that I - luded when I spoke of the hanunet going all night. There are no lessth four -'new" boats being built for it » some eight or ten—some of them form •favourites—will go in for it -. altogether I will be the race of the day. I -will give description of the boats being built. fiJl on the list, that being built by the wtfl known Auckland boatbuilder, Mr J. War mouth, who at the last moment determined to try an ' take the conceit out. of thekt This boat will be completed on Saturday She is 20 feet long, 7 feet beam, and 2 feet 6inches deep centre-board ; will carry main sail, jib, and topsail, comprising over eighty yards of canvass. She has very fi ne lines, and is a powerful boat, carvel-built Next one being built by Mr Barber of Ara tapu, who is also the builder of the Francis Harriet, a boat which, if not first, will gj Te the winner a shaking. MrDaltou, ofDaiga. ville, has also built a boat for this race, hat though I wish our enterprising townsman every success in his own line, still I think he should have adhered to his " last profession, Messrs Melville and McLeod, of TeKopua, are also building "a dark 'un," butyourcor respondent, from what he has heard, would sooner take any one of the aforementioned. It would take up too mnch space to, describe all the others, so I will give my tip:— Waymouth's Foam, or Maori's Francis Harriet, built by Babers, Ist; Barber's Telephone, 2nd ; McLeod's (Te Kopuru)

I will now merely give my tip for the remaining races :—

Champion Skiff Eace. —MrPaton's,ifhis boat is completed ; if not Harrison's or Dr. Marton's.

2-oared Gig Eace. —Eata, or Mowden's Annie. Double-Handed Punt Eace.—Patouand Price.

4-oar Gig Eace.—Mr J. M. Dargaville's boat, built by Waymouth, Ist; Hall Carte's boat, built by T. Savage, of the Thames 2nd,

Canoe Race—The best men. Yacht Race.—AY. King's or "Waytnouth's, if in time to start.

Greasy Boom.—Thos. Oldbuy. Tub Race.—A well-known lady of great experience in the line.

A Band will be on board the flag-ship, yhere the Thespian votaries can indulge* in the light fantastic toe.

The Premier at Christchurch.

A GREAT TRIUMPH.

CHRISTCHURCH, This day. The Oddfellows' Hall at Christchurch was crowded on Saturday evening, on the occasion of Sir George Grey addressing a public meeting. The gallery was crowded with ladies, and the Mayor of Christchurch occupied the chair. On entering the hal the Premier was received with rounds oi cheers, lasting several minutes, and he was cheered at frequent intervals during his speech. After referring to the critical character of the audience, the Premier went on to speak of the share he had taken in the introduction of Constitutions for the Colony, and for the Cape. He referred at some length to the question of representation, and the incidence of taxation, the speed on these matters being in the main a repe tition of what has so beemepeatec in othergparts of the colony. If the people Avere contented with the present state of things they were simply slaves. One alteration which he proposed was in the direction of reducing the heavy charges on vessels calling casually at any of the ports of the colony. If they allowed the present Land laws to exist for another ten years they would have half[a century's|inheritance of evils. The gentlemen behind him were responsible for the uujust system which have given an extension of their leases to the runholders, (loud and prolosged cheers.) He had not encouraged the visit of Sir William Jervois because the finances of the colony could not in their present con dition, Lear the strain. He had preferred that Sir John Coode should visit the colony

(From Our Own Correspondent).

with a very different object. Sir George Grey concluded a speech of nearly frwojhoure duration amidst loud cheers, which lasted for several minutes.

MrE. C. Stevens, M.H.E., moved a vote of tliauks to Sir Georere Gre T

.. ureorg y. s Mr Montgomery, M.H.R., proposed to add a vote of confidence in the Govern ment, which was seconded by Mr Saunders. Dr Turnbull eulogised the Premier as an orator, but bitterly attacked his land policy. He also attacked the people of Auckland in unmeasured terms, and called Sir George Grey "The Alaric of the North." He was frequently interrupted by a storm of dis approbation. Mr J. Inglis, on rising to second the vote of thanks, was hissed down. The meeting appeared determined to carry a vote of confidence. Mr Rolleston threw himselt into the - breach with the object of retrieving the disastrous discomfiture of the squatters. He was, however, received with a perfect hurricane of hisses and groans. He pro* tested against the vote of confidence. He disapproved of the speech. (Tremendous hisses and groans). The Chairman appealed to the meeting to her Mr Rolleston. Mr Rolleston continued. Sir George Grey's speech was remarkable for whatj* did not say. (Loud hisses.) The speakers voice was at this stage completely drownfid amidst cries of disapprobation, and "I™ it to the vote." fi Mr Jobsou supported the vote of conn- The Chairman again appealed to &c meeting to hear Mr Rolleston. (Loud cries of " JNo ; put it to the vote." , Mr Rolleston again rose to speak, and was hissed down. ~ The Chan-man, in pathetic tones besougnt the meeting to give Mr Rolleston a chance- Mr Rolleston said Sir George Grey ba» enlightened the meeting with regard to tne course he took in respect to the honours which Her Majesty had thought fit to be stow on two State Judges. (Confusion-J What had been the treatment by Sir George Grey of Her Majesty's representative since the rising of the House? A more indecent spectacle (Confusion, hissing, roaring, shouting, and general uproar.) Mr W* leston continued to speak, but it wa3 im possible for the meeting to hear a word W. said. He finished, by speaking to tne reporters. When the Constitution be fairly worked, they must have straigw running, and no secret council. f Jj*. Queen's representative had been set, a* nought by the Premier. (Hisses and con* fusion, and crios of "Sit down," "D°E" make it a wordy meeting," and other obser* vations, concluding with general uproar.J

KVENmG ■ STAR- MOST-DAY MARCH 18. 1 .^«.



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CO TJRTBK EDITION1 r* t ÜBLISHED at 12.30 p.m. (For WAIKATO) AND AT 3.30 P.M. - THE TOWN EDITION of the STAR is Published at the Office at 5 o'clock. Clover seeds. Olover seeds. Jus'r to Hand, ex ' Apelles,' OUR FIRST SHIPMENT NEW SEASON'S ~-OLOTER SEEDS, ||Jsgs§ CONSISTING OB1 . White Clover Timothy RedClovtr 5., Cow Grass Trefoil Alsyke &c, &c., &c. Turnip AND A Fine Collection of Farm asd Garden Seeds. also, A Shipment of American Timothy. Samples of the above Seeds will be forwarded on application. Poverty Bay, Canterbury, and local Rye Grass, Cocksfoot, Ratstail, Poas Fescues, &c, &c, from carefully selected samples, at lowest mar ket rates. _ W. J. HURST & CO., 101, Queen-street. tar CITY HATjL "» Jj^URNISHIvNG A-R'CADE. NEW GOODS JUST UNPACKED, AND QUITE NEW. CRETONNES, Large Lot New Colours and New Designs. ( New Brussels, from 4/9 p AT , pli ,™ 5 New Tapestry, from 2/1 CAKPHiIS. -j New Kidderminster, from 3/2 (New Hearthrugs, from 66 New Shape Walnut Suites New Reps for do. Green and Crimson Silk Rep ) £>8 Black and Gold do. /• ®"S Fawn and Gold do. J New Pattern Walnut Tables New Inlaid Flower Stands 12 feet wide, 3/ per yard 3 „ 2/ Oil Canvas, /9 „ Linoleum, all wiaths Handsome White Twistand Bullion Fringes, for Bed Hangings Handsome White & Fancy Belgian Damask, Turkish Towels, very large size, 1/3 and 1/9 Superior Fancy Oil Baizes, for tables Immense Variety in Ladies' Dress Buttons. Hollo-way, G-arliek 8c Cranwell, City Hall Arcade, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. CABINET FACTORY .. Lome-street r nOSGRAVE .& £J O. WILL HOLD A GREAT CLEARING SALE OF MEN'S AN D BOYS' C;L O T;H IN G STO-MORROW. All Goods Reduced to Cost Price Inspection Invited. THORNTON, SMITH. AND FIRTH'S PRICES CpRRENT (Wholesale) Subject to alteration without notice. Sacks. 100'b. 50*9 rown Brand Flour, £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. perfcon 16 0 0 16 10 0 17 0 0 T-irlnd Cantey bUT 15 0 0 15 10 0 16 0 0 Meal for Pig-feed .. 710 0 Sharps 7 10 0 Bran 6 0 0 .. Fowl Wheat .. .. 4s. to 4s. 6d. per bushel. The above prices include sacks and bags; sacks and bags not retaxnable. Terms: Cash. Febraaryfll,lß7B. NION INSURANCE COMPANY OF NEW ZBALAND. A.PITAL £2.000,009. U C X L A f\ D BRANCH: QUKaN-S T R E X T. Next the Colonial Bank. 7IRE OEPARTMENT. Insuranc granted on Dwelling - houses, Stores, Shops, Buildings in which trade is carried on, Merchandise, and Goods of every description. MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers, Merchandise of all kinds, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at owest Current Rates. R. H. STBVKNSON Manager. C<OUTH BRITISH FIREg& MARINE © INSURANCE OOMPANYfIOF NEW ZEALAND. a> ::a Notice is hereby given that the Ordinary Half Yearly General Meeting of the Shareholders of this Company will be held at the Company's Office, Queen-street, Auckland, on MONDAY, April Bth, 18T8, at two o'clock in the afternoon to receive the Report and Balance-sheet for the half-year ending February 28th, 1878, and to Elect Two Auditors in the place of John Batger and T. L. White, Esqs., who retire, but are eligi ble, and offer themselves, for re-election. The Transfer Books will be Closed from March 25th to April Bth, 1878. both days inclusive. By order of the Dtacte^,^^ Manager.! Auckland, March 6th, 1878. THE BAY OF PLENTY TIMES," Published at Tauranga, Bi-Weekxy, (A GAZETTE IN BANKRUPTCY), HAS THE LARGEST CIRCULATION op any Country Newspaper published in the Provincial District of Auckland. Advertisements, and Names of New Subscribers will be received by BFNJ.a.MIN TANNER, corner of Queen and Shortland-streets. W« Rat t §r ay Begs to Inform his Customers, and the General Public, that he has placed his DRESS-MAKING AND MANTLE-MAKING DEPARTMENTS Under the care of MADAMB LE GRIFFON, who was for nine years in business close to the Crystal Palace, Sydenham, Lon don ; and for the last four years in Upper Queen-street, Auckland W. ItATTItAY, LINEN DRAPER & SILK MERCER, jurcw 7EALAND TTOUHH;. 66, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. SUPERIOR SAMPLES of Sydney and New Zealand Maize, Tartarian and Potato Oats, Table Potatoes, Flour, Oatmeal, Bran, Sharps, Barley, Jhaff, Oilcake Coal, &c, &c, always on hand. W. J. HURST & CO., 101, QUEEN-STREET. AUCKLAND PREPARATORY SCHOOL, Grace-street, Ponsonby Road. MRS. ROBINSON, having a Competent Assistant Mistress f«jr the Junior Class, is now prepared to receive additional Pupils. Terms: ONE SHILLING per WEEK. Vacancies for a few Pupils for the Pianoforte. BONEDUST! BONEDUST! BONEDUST 1 To Arrive, about the middle of February : 500 TONS BONEDUST, Consisting of Billyard's No. 1, Bell's I inch, inch, and Boneflour. „_ W. J. HURST & CO., a 101. Queen-street". DoN'The hoodwinked by imitators of Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps, who inclose vile spirits in bottles which contained the Simon Pure Schnapps and put bogus labels thereon. Repudiate these nostrums. Scruti nize the labels, and if they a-e deficient in exe cution or the ear-marka ofj.authcnticity,! donj



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