SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

crti. it ,T-,n^.,, i This Afternoon,— H*C»H VYATKIt— ■> To . morrow -Morning, 0.23 SUN SET.—Thl^vcuinjjj C.20 SUN RISE.—To morrow Moi-ninsr, C.I MOON'S AGir.-Fii-st Quarter, 12th, 3.39 p.m. ,

ARRIVALS.

Nile, brig,.Moßurney, from Newcastle

DEPARTURES.

Taupo, s.s., Andrew, tor Kussell Rowena, s.s., Sellars, for Mercury Bay and Tauranga lona, s.s., Farqnhar, for Russell Fairlie, schooner, Norris, for Lyttelton, via Thame3

IMPORTS.

Per Ohasca, from London: 20 cases galvanised iron—lo tons, 300 bags fine salt, iO cases Nor weerian milk, 1 case wool scowers, 10 cases mus tarn, Jo cases white starch. 2 rases Van Hongh ton's cocoa, i oases Taylor's cocoa, 2 cases Epps cocoa, 5 cases caster oil. 1 case Epsom salts, 5 casks raw oil, 5 casks boiled oil, 2 cases soap powrier,—Porter and Co. Per Nile, brier, from Newcastle: 50 pairs shafts. 4,250 spokes. 236 tons coal.. Per Sea Toller, from London : 7 trunks boots. —E.Lewis. Per Chasea, from London: 11 trunks boots. — ■ S. Lewis. There was no sicrn of the mail steamer up to the time at which we went to pres?. She is due this evening-, and will most likely arrive to-night or to-morrow morning. jgjThe schooner Onward cleared at the Customs to-da,y for Rassell, in ballast, and will leave this evening. The sehocmev Queen, Captain Jones, cleared at th° Customs for Hokianga this afternoon, and will Bail at once. She takes a general cargro. The schooner Colden Isle, Captain Watts, cleared at the Customs to-day for Russell, in ballast, and leaves at one?.

The schooner Hannah Bloom field, from Kai para. and H.JM.S. Wolverine, from Sydney, arrived at Wellington yesterday. The Wol verine is expected to come on to' Auckland im mediately.

The schooler Sarah and Mary from Kaipara, and the Onward and Kenilworth, from Auck land, arrived at Lyttelton yesterday. - The s.B. Rowena, Captain Hollars, left last eveninti for Tauranga and Mercury Bay, with a general cargo and the following passengers : — Mrs and ?-Tjssps Dnnna, Mr and Mrs Shatter; lUsssra Waugh, Forley, Adamson, Burton, Crowe, and Captain Ferguson. The s.s. lona, left lor Russell and the North last evening, taking the following passengers:— Mcsdames Griflllan. and Pavis ; Messrs Salmon, Srephercson, Wilson, and Masters. The brigantine Lapwing has hauled alongside the Railway Wharf in the berth lately occupied ■by the Fairlie. and will commence discharging her cargo at once.

The brisantine Fairi'e, having discharged her cargo, sailed last evening for the Thames, where she will load with a cargo of timber for Ly:tel ton.

Tha 9.3. Argyle leaves this afternoon for Wansrarei and Mangapai with passengers and cargo. ;

Owinar to the non-arrivnl of the mail steamer, the departure of the Taranaki from the Manu kau for Southern ports has been postponed until to-morrow. Should the steamer not arrive by that time, the Taranaki will not be further delayed.

The brig which was si "lalled during yester day turned out to be the Kile, Capt. Mcßunney, from Newcastle, with a cargo cf coals. She left on the 19th ult.. and experienced strong easterly and South-east gales, for the first seven days, and subsequently light winds from the same quarter, until making the North Cape on Saturday last. She will come alongside the Wharf and commence discharging her cargo at once. Master Mcßunney is the only passenger.

The schooner Fairy entered inwards to-day from the Barrier, with 62 tons firewood, and cleared out for the same place in ballast. The ship Chili hauled alongside the wharf, in the berth lately occupied by the Appelles, this morning, and will commence to discharge her cargo at once. A large number of persons assembled on the wharf to-day to witness the departure of the North Shore Ferry Company's new iron paddle staamer Tongariro on her maiden trip to the Thames. She left precisely at seventeen minutes past nine, taking a number of pas sc-narers. A great deal of speculation was indulged in regarding the probable length of the voyage, and it was generally considered she would make the trip in about 4 hours. -■"The barque Chasoa hauled alongside the end of the wharf this afternoon, and will commence the work of unloading to.morrow. The schooner Wave of Life hauled round to the Gore-street Jetty this ofternoon for the purpose of cleaning up 4 Tho amount of revenue collected at the Custom 3 to-day was £3097 3s. The ?.s. Taranaki, which arrived in "the Mamikau yesterday brought the following pas sengers:—Mr and Mrs McMillan, Mr and Mrs Lake. Mr and Mrs Hollis, Mr and Mra Wiiliams. Mr and Mrs Callis, Mrs Blair, Misses Buddie, J. Smith, and Gore, Messrs McGath, T. Kelly.' Green, Norman, Batkin, Studholme, Porter, Hemus, McCormish, Spencer, Cope, J. Dickey, Irwing, O. E. Young, R. S. Young, T. Whitson, O. Reilly, J. Watson, J. V. Brown, and Eev. J. C. Andrew. TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING. Rtjssell, this day. The 5.9. Taupo arrived from Auckland at seven o'clock this morning, and the lona at 9.30. Gisborne, this day. The s.s. Pretty Jane left at 1 p.m., and the Go-ahead at 10.30 a.m., for Auckland.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mait,s wilt. Close as Under — For Thames, to-morrow, at 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, per Durham, to-morrow, at 11.30 a.m.; and for Waiheke and Coromandel, per Argyle, on Friday next, at 2.30 p.m. For Napier, per Southern Cross, to-morrow, at 2 p.m. For Australian Colonies, Batavia, Singapore, China, and Japan, via Torres Straits, per s.B. Australia, immediately after her arrival from Honolulu. For Wangarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarei, and i Mangapai. per Argyle, this day, at 4 p.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Taranaki, to-morrow, at 10.55 a.m. Late letters till 11.10 a.m. For Waiwera, Warkwortn, and Te Arai, per Annie Milbank, on Thursday next, at 10 a.m. For Tauranga, Gisborne, Napier, Southern Pro vinces, and Australian Colonies, per Taupo on Thursday naxt, at 3 p.m. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

MARRIAGE.

SCHISCHKA—BURN.—On the sth March, at St. Matthew's Church, by the Rev. R. Bur rows, Mr. John Schischka, second son of Lorenz Schischka, Puhoi, to Elizabeth. Jane Burn, neice of Mr. James Young, late of Grey streee. Auckland.—Sydney papers please copy.

DEATH.

SKELTON.—On the 11th March, at her parents' residence. Gaol Road, Mount Eden, Harriet Maude Skelton, infant daughter of JohnThos. and Ann Eliza Skelton, aged S weeks. The funeral will leave her parents' residence to-morrow, at 130 p.m. Friends please accept thia intimation.

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

TUESDAY. MARCH 12, 1878.

i?o<r tfts clutsa that lacks sssbtaiicik, £a* tiic vwaajf that needs n^istiacs, Fat lie future ta tbe dfeancs, Aad ties saod t 3J« wa «** *»

We are glad to learn that a movement is on foot by which a good level space may yet be conserved to the citizens on the estate administered by the Improvement Commis sioners. The bulk of the level land, as our readers are aware, lias been laid off in building allotments, throwing the park reserve stipulated for in the Act, back on the hill-side. By the forfeiture of certain allotments fronting Princes-street, however, and the readiness of other holders to sur render their leases, it has become possible to re-consider the first decision with re ference to the magnificent level area now unoccupied. The plan suggested involves a deviation in Princes-street as at uresent laid off, and the carrying ot the street round the broad open green in crescent form. The width of the present street, and half the allotments on the Choral Hall side, would be thrown into the oval, which, extending thence across toWellcsley street, including the site of the present police barracks," would furnish a splendid ground for cricket, football, or other open air sports or entertainments. Since the losa of the barrack green and the closing of Government House grounds, the want of such an enclosed sward in the centre of the city has beon very much felt, and any practicable proposal in relation to the land now available in the Albeit reserve should receive careful consideration. The administration of this property hitherto has been anything but a success from the point of city ' improvement. Several excellent streets' have, certainly, been made, and a number of superior mansions erected ; but this has been done at the cost of encumber ing a most valuable estate and destroying an invaluable lung to the city, without giving anything in its place. By the few whose good fortune it has been to find locations on the estate, the airy situation and fine prospect are doubtless appreciated, but it would be hard for the most enthu siastic admirer of the Commission to shew that the citizens of Auckland have benetitted to the extent that might reason ably be expected from the splendid grant which fell unexpectedly to their lot. It is intended, we believe, to bring the matter up by means of a deputation to the Commis sioners, when its merits may be more fully discussed.

Arrival of the Mail Steamer

The s.s. Australia with the English and American Mails was coining up the harbour at five o'clock to:night.

A lady walking down Queen-street yesterday afternoon picked up a coat and vest, with a watch in the pocket of the vest. The articles were handed over tojthe police, and the owner can have them on applica tion.

Mr Broderick, C.E., of the Sydney Dock Works, and Mr Bain, of the "Southland Times," accompanied by Mr Errington, Waterworks Engineer, visited the water works yesterday. The engines were work ing at 12J strokes a minute, and the gentle men were much interested in what they saw, and the explanations given by Mr Errington. The object of the visit was to see the working of the engine, and ascertain the cost of appliances with the view to establishing waterworks in Invercargill. The annual fete of the children attending the Roman Catholic Schools of the city aud suburbs will be held on Monday, the 18th inst. and promises to be a great success. The arrangements of the day will be carried out by the members of the Christian Doctrine Society, under the immediate supervision of the clergy. It is expected that some two thousand childienwill take part in the demonstration, and should the weather prove propitious, a pleasant and profitable day's enjoyment is anticipated. The Swedish Journal, "Port Turikes Tidmigar," publishes the text of the treaty concerning the cession of the Island of St. Bartholomew to France. Tlie document shews that the latter country pays 80,000 francs for the purchase of the territory, and 320,000 francs for the pensions and trans port to Europe of the Swedish function aries. The taking possession and handing over of the archives will take place imme diately after the ratification of the treaty, which is signed by Duke Decazes and the Swedish Minister Adelsward.

The boundaries of land temporarily reserved from sale in Cambridge East are gazetted. The following names of trustees for the Cambridge Cemetery are also published :—William Clare, James Hally, Robert McVeagh, Jamea P. Campbell, John Houghton. A meeting of the creditors of the Red Queen Gold Mining Co. (Registered) took place this morning at the Cos. office, Wyndham-street. The liabilities are about £160 ; and the assets, with the exception of the mine itself, nil. Mr- Garland was appointed liquidator. With reference to the recent decision given in the Parnell Assessment Court against Judge Fenton, we understand that there is a possibility of the matter coming into the Supreme Court. The Rating Act prohibits appeal, but it is thought that a way may be found |to review the judgment in a superior Court. Mr T. L. Murray, of the Bank of New Zealand, was sworn in this morning as a Justice of the Peace.

The Roman Catholic services at the Thames on Sunday were attended by mem bers of the Italian Opera Concert Company. Signora Caranti Vita sang the anthem " Aye Maria" (Gounod), being accompanied by Mons. L. Carron on the violin. That talented vocalist also sang a grand "O Salutaris Hostia," which was done ample justice to by her. Signors Tessada and Paladini then sang the " Tantem Ergo" to Rossini's grand music. We are requested by Mr B. R. Hunt, manager of the Waikato Steam Navigation Company, to contradict a statement in the "Herald" of this morning to the effect that owing to the low state of the river impeding the traffic the Company have resolved to lay up their steamers for the present. A large-sized portrait of the new Pope, Leo XIII., taken from a photograph supplied by the Rev A. Ambrosoh, of Sydney* is now on view at the STAR publishing office. At the top of the medallion is the Pope's crest, and at the foot the arms of the Archiepiscopal See of Perugia^ with the Cardinal's insignia. The " Bay of Plenty Times " of Saturday last, in an article on the native question, remarks: —'"The establishment of an " aukati' line is said to be under the con sideration of the Government as an alter native, should the forthcoming meeting be tween the Premier and Tawhiao, at the end of the mouth, lead to no amicable under standing. We are not in a position to absolutely guarantee the truth of the state-, ment, but it comes from a thoroughly reliable source, and is worthy of considera tion."

fpThe s.s. Southern Cross has been detained till to-morroAv, at three o'clock p.m., for Napier. She has superior accommodation for passengers.

A subscription for a new Roman Catholic Church in the German settlement of Puhoi was commenced at the close of Rev Father Walter Macdonald's sermon in the district on Sunday last, aud resulted in £95.

The "Victoria Lodge of Newmarket is advertised in another column to meet on Wednesday instead of Thursday (this week), owing to the church soiree having been fixed for Thursday.

The Hon. J. Sheehau is expected to visit Te Aroha to-morrow, in order to arrange for the completion of land purchases. We have received letters from settlers living north of the Orewa Ferry, complain ing of the niggardly action of the Rodney County Council, -which refuses to contribute its share of the expenses of this convenience to the settlers and travellers. The Waitemata County Council has intimated its willingness to contribute its propor tion of the expense, but some of the mem bers of the other Council advocate the discontinuance of the Orewa Ferry. Such a step would be likely to seriously endanger the lives of travellers, not to speak of the serious delay and inconvenience it would entail. Our correspondents state that the ferryman is a very steady man, always at his post, and that no fault can be found with him.

The revenue of the Kaipara railway wharf for the four weeks ending Jan. 12th, IS7B, was £293 15s 8d; and the expenditure, £234 2s 3d. The revenue of the Auckland railway wharf for the same period was £484 3s ; and expenditure, £82 5s Id. Austrian industry is benefitted largely by the war. Large contracts were entered into at Vienna on account ot the Russian Government for the supply of rugs, woollens, leather, ambulance stores, preserves, and some hundreds of iron barracks and store houses, special agents being sent for the purpose. There seemed to be some difficulties at first about the conditions of payment, but these were finally arranged by negotiating with some commercial firms.

Sir,—ld the list of old residents given by "An Old Identity" in Saturday's issue, there was omitted one at least who should have been mentioned, viz., Mrs King, who arrived in 1814, and was one of the few pioneer ladies who devoted themselves amidst great privations and hardships to the missionary cause. I believe Mrs King was really the first European lady who set foot in New Zealand. By inserting thi3 you will oblige many of her descendants, some of whom are at present residing in Auckland. y ours &c, M.D. Managers of country libraries are re quested to furnish information according to requirements of tho Board of Education, in order that they may participate in the Government grant of £1,025 7s, placed in the hands of the Board for the benefit of district libraries.

Rev J. H. Fletcher, of Sydney, will deliver a lecture this evening at the North Shore Wesleyan Church on the subject of "Labour and Rest," in favour of the Church Harmonium Fund. The subject is one of special interest, and of which much can be said. Those ladies and gentlemen who may be privileged to hear Mr Ffctcher's lecture will be well rewarded.

" Macleod of Dare" is tho title of Wm. Black's new novel, which is appearing in " Good Words"

On the 11th of January, a Japanese named Tom Fat was charged at Ports mouth with having forged the name of Lord Charlesjßeresford, M. P., commander of the "Thunderer." There were also 12 other charges of forgery against him. A Press Agency telegram of the 11th, from Dunedin, says : —" At the banquet to Ministers, Mr Macandrew said that he was not without hope that public opinion might compel Parliament to restore to the people provincial institutions, perhaps not as they were,, but more adapted to the circum stances of the colony."

A correspondent, about whom we have cautioned the police and the Superintendent of the Auckland Lunatic Asylum, sends the following :—" Why is Superintendent Hughes, without his boots, the best Scotch dancer in Auckland?" "Because he is per fect at a hose-reel I"

Letters of naturalisation have been issued to Antiono Jocahin Leninard, of Auckland.

A fatal accident occurred at the Theatre Royal Hotel, Wellington, on Sunday evening. A man named Ahearn, who had been staying in the house for some days, fell over the railing of an upstairs vestibule into the Billiard Room, a distance of about twenty feet. He was discovered lying on the billiard table insensible and bleeding profusely. Medical aid was at once summoned, but unavail ingly. The poor man died in about three hours.

Mrs Daly, the wife of John Daly, Inspec tor of Sheep, at Nelson, cut her throat yetcrday morning. She has been suffering from melancholia for sometime past. Small hope is entertained of her recovery. It is understood that the Government will bring on the measures by which they intend to stand or fall within a fortnight after the Assembly meets. Jacobsen, alias Mouravieff the " Count," whose adventures we jjaveinfull a few days ago, ha? been committed for trial on a charge of attempting to pass valueless cheques. The second annual aquatic sports in connection with the Saltwater Baths, is announced by the proprietor to be held on Saturday next, commencing at 2 p.m. A similar affair was held last year, and terminated very successfully. An excellent and extremely interesting programme has been arranged for the occasion, iucluding races for boys under 9, 12, and 16 years, long divea, diving for plate, swimming matches, and the difficult feat of undressing in the water. Competitors are to be handicapped at the discretion of tho judge or proprietor. As the entrance fee has been fixed at the comparatively small sum of 6d, there will doubtless be a large attendance.

The 100-yard match for£s aside, between Jones and Martin, did not take place, as the former never turned up. His backers are exceeding wrath. The Cricket Match between tho employe's of Messrs Brown, Barrett and Co. and Messrs Kempthorne, Rrosserand Co., which took place in the Domain on Saturday, re sulted in a draw. J. Lawry, of the medicine men team, made the best score of the day, 53.

The Roman Catholic Bishops Moran and Redwood are among the visitors at Waiwera, Hot Springs, and on Sunday last their Lordships held divine at the health ful retirement.

The address of the Auckland teachers to Mr O'Sullivan has been completed by Mr Slator, who deserves credit for his artistic work. The address, drawn up by two gentlemen, will bo presented to Mr O'Sul livan shortly, with a number of volumes. The subscribers felt, as expressed in the address, that Mr O'Sullivan'szeal, judgment, and impartiality deserved some such recog nition. The address is signed on behalf of 172 school teachers.

Dear Mr Editor : Sir, —Will you kindly inform me through your answers to corres pondents whether it is considered a correct thing for a young lady to present a smoking cap to a married man ? My opinion is, when there is a wife and family, if a present is necessary, why pick the husband from amongst them ?—Yours respectfully, Vita. —[It is a very delicate question. We cer tainly should* not advise any young lady to make such a present.—Ed. E.S.]

The Band of Hope soiree in connection with the United Free Methodist Church was well attended last evening. About 200 sat down to a satisfying tea of excellent quality. The entertainment which followed consisted of speeches by Revs. R. Taylor, D. Dutton, and other friends of the cause. The ballads and musical selections were of a very choice characer, and the" whole passed pleasantly.

The Hon. J. Sheehan was expected to re turn to Auckland to-day in order to attend a Cabinet meeting to complete the steps necessary for the appointment of Mr Stout as Attorney-General, and to receive a deputation at 3 o'clock. On a- rival at New castle, however, Mr Sheehan was unex pectedly delayed, and he will not therefore return to town until to-morrow, when he proceeds to the Thames. The traffic receipts on the Kaipara rail way for the four weeks ending 12th Jan., 1878, amounted to £331 sd, against £22610a 4d for the same period of 1877. On the Auckland section for the san\e period of 1878, the total was £3,423 2s 7d, against £2,155 9s Id for 1877.

The natives between Paritaka and Opu naki have taken to wheat-growing lately, and purchased two threshing machines.

A YOUNG MAN MISSING.

ABOUT six o'clock this morning a man in the employ of Mr Churton, of Parnell, dis covered on the beach, at the back of Judge Fenton's residence, a bundle of clothing, consisting of a new serge suit, shirt, hat, and an old pah-gof slippers. He immediately reported the fact at the Paraell Police sta tion, and Sergeant Jackson proceeded 1o the spot, and took charge of the bundle} The clothes were identified by a Mr Brown as those belonging to ayoung man named Rus sell, employed in the Kailway Goods station, and formerly a reporter on the staff of the "Daily Southern Cr038." The mother of the young man, who is a -widow, and keeps a boarding-house at Parn&U, was communi cated with, and on making an examination of the wardrobe of her son, nhe discovered that another suit of clothing, consisting of monkey iacket, trousers, new boots, and w, ~J -i-i-e. n= -«- i --* eleven o'clock last night, but shortly after wards went outside, and probably proceeded to the beach. It is believed that he placed the fir*t suit of clothes on the beach merely as a blind, and made himself scarce for reasons which are well known to himself and others. Very little alarm is felt on his account, and it is quite possible something further may be heard of him during the course of the next few days, which will, it is hoped, prove that he has not departed from the land of the living.

THEATRICAL JOTTINGS.

Miss Alice May appeared at the Philhar monic Theatre in London on January 23rd, as Drogan in Offenbach's " Genevieve de Brabant."

On Friday, the 23rd of February, Byron's comedy of " Our Boys" was played at the Vaudeville Theatre for the thousandth time.

Mr Tom Taylor, the editor of " Punch," has written anew play for the Court Theatre entitled '' Victims."

The English Opera Season at Her Majesty's is a success. A,translation of Flotow's " L'Omtra" has been produced. " A Fool and his Money," by Henry J. Byron, is the novelty at the Globe Theatre. Toole plaj s in it. "Diplomacy," an adapation of Saidon's " Dora," is the attraction at the Prince of Wales Theatre in London.

"Pink Doniinos" has reached its 282 nd

night.

OAMARU RACING.

(From our own Correspondent.)

O AMARU, Monday. The annual meeting of the North Otago Turf Club took placs to-day. Tho Maiden Plate was won by Mitchells eh g Mistake. The Selling Race by Mr Wm. McKaj 'd Miss Ke'Wick. The Novel Kace by Graces' b m Flirt, and the Trades man's Handicap by Ray's Titania. The principle event of tho day was tho North Otago Turf Ct.ub Handicap.— lOOsovs., with a sweepstakes of ssovs.; second horse to receive 20sovs., third horse lOsovs.;

distance, 1| miles. Mr Redwood's b h Ariel, 4yrs. lOst. lib. .. 1 Mr O'Brien's b g Fishhook, syrs. 9st. Slbs. .. 2 Mr Swanson's b g Blue Peter, 6yrs 6st. 81bs. .. 3 Betting 5 to 4 on Ariel. 2 to 1 asrst Fishhook, 3 to 1 »gst Bideawee, Mail, Luna, and Blue Peter, 5 to 1 agst Unknown. The Hack Race fell to Old Malabar.

THE GREAT LIBEL CASE,

(From Our Own Correspondeat).

Whitaker v. Jones.

DUNEDIN, this day. Thk great libel case of F. Whitaker /. George Jones was commenced in the Supreme Court yesterday. The case arose, as will be remembered, out of an article published in the " Oamaru Mail," of which Mr Jones is proprietor, during last session. Mr Whitaker, then Attorney-General, called the attention of the Speaker to the article in question, and after a somewhat long and acrimonious debate, a motion was carried that Mr Jones be brought to the bar of the House. He appeared in due course, made a long statement in defence, quoting from the speeches of members, as recorded in "Hansard," in corroboration of the charges which he had preferred against Mr Whitaker. . Mr Jones was then handed over to the custody of the Sergeant at-arms, and then a new difficulty presented itself as to what should be done with him. Ultimately, after another discussion, re markable for a mixture of strong political feeling and ludicrousness, a motion was carried that. Mr Jones be criminally prosecuted for libel by the Attorney- General.

Mr Haggitt appeared for the prosecution, and Messrs Kees and Hislop for the defence.

Mr George Jones, newspaper proprietor, of Oamaru, was indicted tor that he, con triving and unlawfully, wickedly, and maliciously intending to injure, vilify, and prejudice one Frederick Whitaker, and to deprive him of his good name, fame, credit, and reputation, and to bring him into public contempt, scandal, infamy, and dis grace, on August 13, 1877, unlawfully, wickedly, maliciously, did write and publish a false, scandalous, malicious, and defama tory libel, containing divers false, scandalous, malicious, and defamatory matters and things of and concerning the said Frederick Whitaker, who, on the day and year afore said, held and filled the office of Attorney- General for the colony of New Zealand, of and concerning his connection with a certain bill then already prepared and intended to be introduced by the said Frederick Whitaker in the House of Representatives of the said colony of New Zealand, entitled an Act to Amend and Consolidate the Law Relating to the Native Land Court. The said libel being in the words and figures following, that is to say (then follows libel with inuendoes) The said George Jones knowing the said defamatory libel to be false, to the great damage, scandal, and disgrace of the aaid Frederick Whitaker. The defence contained two pleas: first, a plea of "not guilty," and second that Mr Whitaker had dealt as agent for hinaself, while a member of the Ministry, and had otherwise obtained native and waste lands ef the Crown to the injury of the public. Mr Haggitt contended that the second plea was no answer to the charge, and entered a demurrer, which was argued at great length, the learned judge reserving judg ment.

THIS DAY.

His Honor, this morning, gave his judg ment, sustaining the demurrer ; and the case was adjourned till to-morrow, to give the defendant time to put in fresh pleas.

SUPREME COURT.—THIS DAY.

• IN CHAMBERS,

(Before His Honor Mr Justice Gillies). APPLICATIONS. Several applications for probate of -wills by Mr Hesketh were granted. SMITH V. THE QUEEN. Mr Tyler for plaintiff, Mr Brookfield for defendant. This case was referred to the arbitration of Messrs W. Errington and another.

THE QIfIEEN V. L.USK. This was an application by defendant, administrator in the estate of Ormiston, deceased, to set aside judgment against

him. The hearing was adjourned until Friday next..

CABLEGRAMS.

PROPOSED CUSTOMS UNION

ADELAIDE, March 11. The Government have telegraphed to the Sj"dney Government, asking if they are willing to join in negotiations for a Customs union. New South Wales and Queensland also asked for a month's renewal of the existing convention.

THE SMALL-POX CASE

[REUTEE'S SPECIAL TELEGKAM].

SYDNEY, March 11

Arrived : The Rotorua.

The small-pox patients by the City of Sydney have been isolated. The ship will probably be quarantined for some time. The Japanese war steamer Isukuban, 10 guns,' arrived at Brisbane yesterday.

COLONIAL OFFICE AND THE GOVERNOR.

MELBOURNE, March 11. The Governor has received another telegram from the Colonial Office, to follow the advice of Ministers when they commond the confidence of the Assembly and the country.

Special to "Star."]

NEW GUINEA JBiArjHimxiUJN

COMMERCIAL.

SYDNEY.

This day.

The Colonist sails for New Guinea for certain on the 20th. The fare is £12, which carries 5 cwt. of luggage. There have been large < arrivals of potatoes, and the price i? now £6, declining. MELBOURNE.

Saturday. Chester won the Town Plate easily.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before R. C. Barstow Esq., R.M.) TIPSY. John Combes was fined 5s for beiug drunk last night.

THE TERROR OF THE TERRACE.

John Wilson, a stout hale fellow, was charged under the Vagrant Act with being a rogue and a vagabond. Prisoner said "yes."

Constable Abrams said the prisoner was the terror of Eden terrace : he was -con tinually begging and thieving,, and last night at a late hour prisoner got on to the veT-andah of Mr Gilfillan, and commenced knocking; in consequence the ladies were very much frightened. Sub-Inspector Pardy spoke to the prisoner's character; he was idle and drunken, in the constant habit of begging at people's doois, and slipping into their gardens and stealing cucumbers, melons, apples, and whatever he could lay hands on ; he was the same man who won the sympathies of Dr. Wallis, who did the prisoner a favour, in return for which, he stripped the doctor's cucumber bed. His Worship found a long list of convic tions against the prisoner, and ordered him to one year's imprisonment. Prisoner received his sentence with apparently the utmost satisfaction.

JONE OF THE BKOWNS. James Brown, a young man of a wild appearance, was charged with stealing a Chinese tea tray, and other articles, value 7s 6d, the property of Mr H. Keane, on the 12th inst.

As there were a number of other charges against the prisoner, he was remanded until to-morrow.

"ONE KOBE UNFORTUNATE."

Catherine Taylor, a strong hearty woman, was charged under the Vagrant Act with begging in the Grafton-road on the 12th inst.

The unfortunate woman hid her face in her hands, and pleaded guilty. Sub-Inspector Pardy said the prisoner was an excellent servant and work woman, when sober, but the temptation to drink was too strong upon her. She was in the habit of begging by day, and sleeping in the Domain by night. The Court regretted to see a woman who could get a decent livelihood in such a posi tion. '

Three months' imprisonment, This was all the business.

THE TURKISH BATHS.

FiNDiNG ourselves in the neighbourhood of Upper Queen-street the other day, we paid a long promised visit to the establishment of Mr Svkes, whose premises are now as complete, in a'small way, as any of the big Turkish Baths at home. The proprietor is an enthusiastic hydropath, and evidently throws heart and soul into the enterprise. He wceived us civilly, at once proposing that we should test the new and modified Turkish Bath process, which is now in vogue. This we agreed to do, bargain ing, however, that the "pummelling" and ■'cold douche," of which we had read, should be omitted. Mr Sykes reassured us by answering that neither of theße operations is compulsory at his establishment. To begin with,- we were shewn into, a neat disrobing room, fitted up at one side with private com partments, and at the other with comfortable lonnges. In every compartment there is a loose sheet and a small apron (poetically styled a " fig leaf ") for tying round the waist. When garbed in this light and airy costume, we were handed over to the tender mercies of a brawny Negro, who conveyed us downstairs to the hot rooms. There are three of.these. which vary in heat from 120 deg. to 170 deg. They are fitted up with board conches to lie down upon, or one may walk or etand just as one likes. In the coolest of these little "infernos" we com menced to stew quietly. The process is not altogether unpleasant. From time to time a careful attendant visited the room; sometimes to bring a welcome glass of delicious filtered 'water, sometimes to rub patients down and see if" they wwre "done." After twenty minutes stewing we wore pronounced ready, and led off "like a lamb to the. slaughter," into the sham pooing chamber. Here a general scraping down ensued, which, however, was not in any way disagreeable. There was no "pummelling" nor " punching;" on the contrary^ the shampooer constantly asked whether he leant too heavily, etc. Douches of warm, tepid, and finally cold water, followed; also, a shower bath, which, however, was optional. We were then carefully dried, wrapt in a warm sheet, and taken up stairs again, to repose for ton minutes on a soft and fragrant couch. Such is the modified Turkish Bath process, which all who wish to experience some novel sensations and get a splendid washing should try. It is a great mistake to suppose the Turkish Bath is at all weakening. Mr Sykes himself is a wonderful specimen of its curative and health giving powers. For twenty years he suffered from liver complaint and general debility, but now he ia a remarkably strong man. During the last six weeks he has been in the baths (i.e., in a temperature from 150deg. to 170deg.) six hours a. day working, yet during that time he has gainedno less than 71b. The lady superinten dent, too, has gained 31b. in a month. These facts, which are well-known to all the regular frequenters, go to prove most decisively that the Turkish Bath is quite the reverse of weakening. Mr Sykes has plenty of patients. Some dozen ppople came in whilst we were there, and he assured us that he is always kept busy. Testi monials have been received from several persons, notably from Dr. Purchas and Mr James Stewart. The latter says: "I am satisfied the hot rooms are each supplied from above with a sufficient quantity of pure air merely heated to the '.desired temperature without suffering any 16ss"6f oxygen. lam also happy to be able to testify to the beneficial result of the whole arrangements from an extended ex perience of the Baths. There can be no doubt but that the Turkish Bath treatment answers extremely well in cases of chronic rheumatism, sciatica, and" neuralgia. Nervous affections of the brain can also be eased by baths. Mr Sykes boasts that he can conquer the most determined insomnia, and put a person to sleep who is beyond.the reach of ordinary narcotics. He is open to undertake cases of all sorts, and treat them on the hydropol hie principles. Altogether there is much to he learnt by a visit to the Turkish Baths, and eyen if our readers do not quite believe ia water as a specific against disease, they may spend a leisum hour or two much vrorae than at Mr bykes* sanitarium.

THE PARNELL ASSESSMENT.

SlE,—Your correspondent ii« subject of the Assessment boSt ?,°? «te my case. He has touched vS f? d <* {' what appears to me to be theXa£ yo» of the transaction. I have dpp^ • 1^ Part on what I believe to be SfS*l i that Mr Strange, the Tow/derKH being Engineer and Collector ofV^ also the Valuator; and that his reLSfe * for his services consists S,^ or in part of percentage on th P r^ including, of course, all surcharges n^' therefore, a direct personal obtaining high assessments Tv" M of certainty that out of a'nnmW a**" charges, a proportion will be w • f*' reason of absence from home eZ^¥ or carelessness of the persons ™?tneiltß> The operation of surcharge, Si^ becomes a commercial speculating ??* (as losses in the shape of costs a™ -^ of failure, borne by the narkKi Ca*' be tolerably successful for the ouSSn I*l^^1*I^^ In my case the speculafimf ' successful one. Idon^S^^^ Mayor and Council continued tbA siiw.k whether they were aware that it Sfe^ last year on its merits, pan d tha "Z™l^ amount fixed on the evident Stevenson and other skiUed witr, *'■■ There was no change of civtarZ *"**■' justify a renewed trial, but!hee? W answered. I should add, thatoddly P c S Avhen I won, solicitors' costs werpnntlii gh ' to me ; when I lost, they were S o^ against me,-You re , &c., * ?Uo*<d"

F. D. FjEyrnv

THE HAMILTON BANQUET.

Hamilton, Tuesday 1 aniilton at a convenient hour mj*{ were received at the railway z L n -*«ey j the principal residents. Most of w, n h dispersed about the township andij s ai *T I the various places of interest. Pecfed There were upwards of forty present at the dinner, which was ser^ 8*8 ' in a style highly creditable to the WaT DP the room being beautifully deco£*? Amongst the principal guests wereMtf I. R. Vialou, Mayor of Hamilton; & I Macdonald, Mayor of Grahamstown •£ j tain Steele, E. M. Edgcumbe "M Plenty Times;" F. J. Yon Stunner H Hunt, E. B. Walker, T. Walker, \ Runciman, J. K. McDonald, C. McDon F. A. Whitaker, F. Vialou. R. Burke! Buckland, J. Coyle, C. J. W. Barton! Harpe, Horrell, S. S. Graham, J. MacH Madigan, W. L. Williams, Jacksoikl Montgomery, Major Ropata, Anarii Pati Knapene. Amongst these -were: a<m many bona fide sons of old coloma There were present a good many Auckkl gentlemen, who had accompanied the Ha J. Sheehan and the Hoi*..Hoani Nahe. 1 Major Wilson, of Cambridge, preside! : >■■ and Mr James Runciman occupied th vice-chair. TlV'i

Full justice having been done to th viands, the usual loyal toasts were propose and responded to with enthusiasm.

The Chairman, on rising to propose tha 8 toast of the evening, was received -withi i cneers. After referring to the non-polititali I character of the dinner, he said its object! 1 •was to do honour to the first native-Wai § colonist of New Zealand, who had reached 1 1 the dignified position of a Minister of the 1 w Crown in the colony. He compared Mt llf Sheehan to a subaltern who, by his genius, 1H had raised himself to the position of a. ifs generalissimo. The distinguished guest held 1 ■ ? a portfolio involving the graves!; respon- I sibilities, and it was fortunate for the B§ colony that Mr Sheehan had been found to I possess the requisite learning, astuteness, t knowledge of the Maori language and; I character, address, and decision. The 1 speaker also considered that the portfolio ly of Public Works, might have been com- 1' bined with that of Native Minister, as upon I him devolved the most onerous duties in I connection with the successful carrying out; 1.-;. ---of public works in the North Island. The I* settlers hoped through his influence shortly r to obtain railway communication -with. I. Taranaki, and a coach-road from Waikato 1 to Taupo. It was well that the mantle of \ Sir Donald McLean had descended upon % Mr Sheehan, though the great expectations i which had been excited in the minds of the l\ natives by the present Ministry would hare [. to be toned down with time. In conclusion f * the speaker paid a graceful compliment to L the self-reliance of Colonial-born youths, |- their resources, gentlemanly behaviour, I; humanity, charity, and modesty ;. and 8 ■ alluded to the confidence which all classes ji of politicians placed in the Native Minister. The toast was received with marks of If enthusiasm. The Hon. J. Sheehan rose to re- | spond, amidst cheers. He said he had | tumbled into the political arena by < I mere accident, having been induced to I enter the Auckland Provincial Council I at the last moment, in which he was j the first New Zealand born representative, I He was also the first New. Zealand born European who had entered the Hoaseof Representatives.. His success was largely due to self-reliance, and in some degree to assurance. When he seconded the Address in Reply on his first entrance into Parlia ment he had censured the House, and' compared his speech to the voice of one crying in the wilderness in the path of a political Messiah who would accomplish great reforms. He attributed his numerous friendships to the fact that he never forgot or deserted a friend, 3nd never insulted or ( threw dirt at an enemy. He -was not insensible to the charge of procrastination which his friends brought against him, but this was a failing which he would endea vour to remedy. He urged the settlers to agitate for through communication between Auckland and Tarauaki. The Government • were determined to complete the coach road from Cambridge to Taupo, and perhaps if he survived the struggles of next session he would ,be able to enter Waikato by that route. |; He suggested that the people of Waikato |. should co-operate with the Thames in | urging on this work, and referred to tne | excellence of the banquet and the kindness | he had experienced at the hands of tne-v Kg Waikato settlers. In conclusion n«. |S expressed a hope that other young New |J§ Zealand's would emulate and even pass him J in the walk of politics. He concluded ; amidst loud cheers. , I The following toasts were also proposed and duly responded to :—" Young New Zealand," by Mr Sheehan, replied to W Mr F. A. Whitaker ; the "Agricultural Interests," by the Chairman, replied to by Mr John Runciman ; " Commercial Inter ests," by the Vice-Chairman, replied to b^. Mr R. R, Hunt; " The Waikato," by f Luckie, responded to by Mr S. Bucklana; "The Maoris," by Mr Sheehan, repliedto by Hoani-Nahe and Major Ropata ; 1»« Press," "The Ladies," "The Host and Hostess." (From another CorrespondentV HAMILTON, this day. The banquet to the Hon. J. Sheekan la 3& night by the sons of old colonists was» grand success. Forty-four were present, whom, at least, thirty-seven were sqnsol colonists of 25 years standing. Tne J* 0-, J. Sheehan sat on the right of the Cbsa- , man, and the Mayor of Hamilton on m left. The following sons of old'colon** | were present (our correspondent here I. § nishes a full list, but we give only tnos |j additional to the names given above) :-~ | Tuwhakaraina, Andrew Barton, Abranw»-. * Barton, W. M. Hay, J. S. Bucklanci;'; Horrell and W. Horrell, from Canterbury.- N. L. C. Williams, James Newell, Lin^i' t McDonald, S. S. Graham, Madigan, *• Vialou, C. H. J. Barton, E, B. Walker an* son, W. Grace. A band of 12 was in attendance. , ] Mr Sheehan made a grand speech in rep j ; to his toast, which was proposed of' 2 ; Chairman. . nn . The whole affair was thoroughly w p political. ' .. . otM i t This morning,, the Native MimstW *■« party visited Tamahere, and returnea j - Akckland by the traiu. ____— —— * 11 •? — —■ ; , . - SSI > C

EVENING STAR TUESDAY MARCH 18, 1818.



1 EXTENSIVE SHIPMENTS b OF MANCHESTER GOODS. JU S T OPE NED, - Several Cases of CALICOES, SHttETINGS, TOWELLING, GLASSCLOTH, TABLE DAMASK, DAMASK TABLE CLOTHS, FRONTINGS, DIAPERS, &C, &C. VERY GOOD VALUE. W. RATTRAY, LINEN DRAPER & SILK MERCER, ■VfKW yiCALAND XT O U"S IC, 66, QUEEN-STREET. Auckland. TO AGRICULTURISTS & OTHERS giW. J. HURST & CO. have on sale the under mentioned Fertilizers, all of which have been proved to jroduce satisfactory results in this district. Experience teaches that large and pro.?table returns can be relied on by a judicious and liberal use of them. The flattering Testi raonils from leading Farmers justify W. J. ifur3&Co. in strongly commending'them .to b very Agriculturist:— -MALDEN ISLAND GUANO ??v;-m PERUVIAN GUANO B«5??M RXIO A.N do. «f®:BKliLc uONKFLOUR fl'-~"< „ J and J-mch BONEDUST S3??BTLLYARD'S No. 1 do. SrrrirNITRATE OF SODA :nrSULPHATE OF AMMONIA IT^T-MURIATE OF POTASH ir-^-SUPKR-PHOSPHATE OF LIMIC. BHSSSSALT, SULPHATE OF LIME, gglu addition to.ytne 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 for the last two sea sons has attracted such favourable notice, ggjinalysis, prices, and other particulars will bn supplied on application at tho Stores. W. J. HURST & CO., 101, Queen-street. O LOVER SEEDS. CIOVER SEEDS. Just to Hand, ex ' Apeixes.' OUR FIRST SHIPMENT NEW SEASON'S rr"rr^ clover seeds, BS2SI consisting of S2i»* White Clover Timothy i- ■■■■ Red Clov6r .Rape ••-- Cow Grass Trefoil !^!H!Alsyke &c, Sec, &c. Turnip IgjgiCT • AND A, Mne Collection of Farm and Garden Seeds. ALSO, A Shipment of American Timothy. "Samples of the above Seeds will be forwarded on application. Poverty Bay, Canterbury, andlocal Rye Grass, Cocksfoot, Ratstail, Poas Fescues, &c, &c, from carefully selected samples, at lowest mar fcetratefc & . 101, .Queen-street. QUPERIOII SAMPLKS of Sydney and X? New Zealand Maize, Tartarian and Potato Oats, Table Potatoes, Flour, Oatmeal, Bran, Hhtu-ps, Barley,. Jhatf, Oilcake Coal, &c, &c, always on hand. '■ . |W. J. HURST & CO., 1)01. gUKICN-STRKET. AUCKLAND Grand .



BONEDUST! BONEPUS. BONEDUST J To Arrive, about the middle of February: 500 TONS BONEDUST, Consisting of BiUyard'a No. 1, Bell's J inch, .inch, and Boneflour. _ W. J. HURST & CO., 101, Queen-street. "COLOUR! jgiLOUR! Anderson and Co., R. Anderson McGil), Hassell. J. T. Evans and Co In sacks, 50s and 1003. B. TONES & CO. Southbridge Bacon Curing Company, new cure Hams and Bacon. IS" The best brand in the market. Wholesalk Agents—B. TONKS & CO, Knight's K.B. Jams. New Shipment. | Wholesale Agents-B. TONKS & CO. Berny's Bonedust and Glutinised Bone Manure. Wholesale Agents—B. TONKS & CO T~~ & H. C O O X E • Have on Sale EONE OF THE LARGEST STOCKS OF IN THE COLONY. Special Items:— DRAWING-ROOM SUITES WALNUT TABLES CARPErs HEARTHRUGS LINOLEUM FLOORCLOTH IRON BEDSTEADS TOILETb LASSES CANE-SEATED CHAIRS TOILET-WARE DRAWERS MARBLE-TOP WASHSTANDS MATTRESSES FEATHER BEDS. - A Small Shipment of CRETONNES and CASH MEIIES, New Patterns. All Goods at Lowest Rates. delivered free. Liberal Discount to Cash Buyers. Furniture Show-rooms 67, QUEEN-STREET Steam Cabinet Factory VICTORIA-STREET Tjl I N A L N O/^T ICE. OURj.ITWENTY PER CENT. SALE Will Positively be Discontinued OK SATURDAY, M|A RC H 16. REMNANTS, &c, AT A VERY GREAT REDUCTION, IN ORDER TO CLEAR OUT PRIOR TO STOCK-TAKING. A L A B G E STOCK OF ■ FIRST-CLASS CLOTHING. FURNISHING GOODS. MANCHESTER GOODS. HOSIERY AND GENERAL DRAPERY Still on Hand" AT ta. TWENTY PER .CENT.^REDUCTION. OUSHBROOK AND DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, &C UPPER QUEEN-STREET, Auckland, (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel). T /^OSGRAVE & /~1 O. ■WILL HOLD A GREAT CLEARING SALE OF MEN'S AND BOYS' C.LO THING TO-MORROW. All .Goods Reduced to Cost Price. Inspection Invited. TTNION BANK OF AUSTRALIA. [ESTABLISHED 1837.] Paid-up Capital £1,250,000. Reserve Funds £450,000. At a Meeting of Proprietors, held in London on the 30th ultimo, the proposal of the Directors to increase the Capital and resources of the Bank by the issue of 10,000 New Sbares of £25 each, at a premium of Thirty-three Pounds per Share, as adopted at the Special General Meet ing of Proprietors, held in London on the 14th ultimo, was confirmed. The New Sbares will be alloted to Proprietors registered in the Colonies on Ist proximo, in the proportion of one new share to every five old shares, and payment is to be made as under, viz.:— £15 per Share on the 15th March, 1878. £15 „ - „ 15th April £15 „ „ 15th May „ £13 ~ „ 15th June „ No transfer of the old shares can take place between the Ist and 16th March, 1878, nor of the new until .the full amount of £58 on each share is paid up. All further particulars can be ascertained on application to the Manager. (Signed), JOSH. PALMER, Chief Officer for New Zealand. Union Bank of Australia, Christchwch, N.Z., 25th February, 1878. T3OYAL INSURANCE COMPANY. Special Notice to Insurers. This Company, having intimated to the In surance Association their Withdrawal frdm Tariff Arrangements, is now prepared to grant Policies on all descriptions of Property at equitable rates. Concessions will be made on first-class build ings and approved risks, in Town and Suburbß, and for water supply and other protection, where made available. Special arrangements will bo made with Mortgagees, Solicitors, House Agents, Con tractors, and other large insurers. The policy of the Company is promptness and liberality in the settlement of claims, and strictly honourable dealing in all its transactions. The Security of Insurers is unsurpassed by that of any Company doing business in the Colony. GBO. W. JONES, Agen Office: Shortland-street, Auckland, Bth February, 1878. The usual Book and Sheet Almanacs for 1878 can be had on application, or on nformation being sent to the Office. Look for the signature and address of the pro prietor upon labels of bottles purporting to con tain Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps, and observe whether the same are deficiently executed or not. If anything be lacking, you may know them for shams and reject them. Swindlers are putting up bad liquors in bottles which previously held the most salutary medicinal beverage in existence. Baffle the rogues. Foremost in the ranks of fame stand those ex traordinary and successful medicines known as " Ghollah's Great Indian Cures." The numbers of sick people that have been restored to health by their use since their introduction into New Zealand, are incredible. Some of the severe cases treated successfully by these Indian Medi cines seemed to have baffled all the available and ordinary remedies previous to their intro duction. Severe cases of 16 and 20 years' dura tion have been cured by their use. " Ghollah's Great Indian Cures" are sold by all Chemists, where ace testimonials. fTNION INSURANCE COMPANY U OF * NEW ZEALAND. »*♦; A.PITAL. ; . .^Z?:^. £2,000,000. UCK Li-A N D BRANCH : Q U X 15 N - S T R E 1C T. Next the Colonial Bank. j-IRE DEPARTMENT. Insuranc granted on Dwelling -houHen, Stores, Shops, Buildings in which trade is carried on, Merc^andiße, and Goods of every description. MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers, Merchandise of all kinds, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at OWRST CIIRBKNT RATES. R. H. STKVKNSON IManager. Exhibition



Scottish



and Colonial



Scenes,



Albert Hall.



To-nigJit,