SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATBR-j^^S^SraiS:, 2.29 SUN SET.-This Evening, 77, 44g SUN RISK.—To-morrow Mo? h n?' 4 |~ MOONS AGE.—New Mood lUl' XAi a- m'

ARRIVALS.

(Manukau)

DEPARTURES.

Famenoth, ship. A.f> f£ r a ft? nfo? n T ondon Pji. v _^ »npirinTiH jhip, -Kalis, ror uonaon TaraSakLsXK^6^' for New P^outhana Hinlmoa 0 s? «" Thames and ? asfc Coast R&SSNS*" Hokianga and Sydney

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Rotorua, d» fxom Sydney, to-morrow

IMPORTS.

SfJjfes sardines, 45 do. Bell and Black's V p=ta^s do furniture, 2 do pianos, 2 do marble cloSs/i do fenders, 2 do iron safes, 4 do looking glasses. 1 do E.P.ware, 1 do musical boxes, 3 do oleographs, 1 do tea trays, 2 do tumblers, 1 do Vftfler bottles, 2 bales brown casing paper, 1 case albums, 1 do cricketing goods, 2 do saddlery, 4 casks canory seed.—E. and H. Isaacs.

THE FAMENOTH. The ship Famenoth moved away from the wharf into the stream early this morning, and sailed for London with a fine breeze at tnree o'clock tnis afternoon. Her passengers,whose names have already appeared, were taken off to her in one of the fei'ry steamers this afThe°s.s: Htaemoaleft for the Thames this morning. Passengers: Sir George Grey, Hon. John Sfieehan, Mr J. C. Brown, M.H.R., Mr and Mrs George, Me and Mrs MitcheU .ua& family (3), Messrs Baker, G-race. and Greece. From the Thames he proceeds to Coromandel and the East Coast. i*. „* k * m The Taranaki sailed for the South at 5 p.m. yesterday. Passengers: MesdamesMcKenzie and four children, Bradley, Roberts; Misses Sharland, Bacon: Messrs McKay (2), Gome, Warnook, Cheeseman, Adams Sheahan, King, Roberts, Walker, Murdoch, Moorhouse Som merville, Dowell. Wilding, Friedlander (2) , and 9 Thf'sfsTßotorua tUd not leave Sydney till Saturday. She will, therefore, not arrive till to-morrow evening. . ' . , __«i The s.s. Ladybird has been detained until Friday at 2 p.m., in consequence of non-arrival sailed for Hokianga yester day. She i3 to load there with timber for 7 good ship City of Auckland got under weia-h at daylight yesterday morning, and left for London with a light westerly breez*. She was passed by the lona and other excursion steamers yesterday, but had made good her offing before sundown. *_.«, +v,«. The s.s. Ladybird arrived yesterday from the South, via the East Coast with the following passengers: Mesdames Newbold, Maynard Barber and 2 children; Misses MoMaion and Stuart; Mpssrs. Stuart E|? ie u 1 M^Jnar^' Dnfaur Matheson, Goodwyn, Rundle. Menzie, Mitchell. Christie, Cameron, McKerrow. Ken ned? Mitcbeil, Churton, Brandon, Darhi>~, and Master Newbold. Steerage-Miss Whittmg ham Messrs. Wilmott, Sykes, Wilson, and Sidd'ong.—Henderson & Macfarlane. agents.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mattes will ulosb as übubb-.. For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m; and to morrow, at 2 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. For Coromandel, per Durham, this day, at 5 p.m. WSS For Waiheke and Coromandel, per Argyle, on

Friday next, at 2.30 p.m. For New Plymouth and Wanganui (via VV ai tara). per Hauraki, to-morrow, at 1 p.m. For Waiwera, Warkworth, and Te Aral, per Annie Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Tairua, per Mana, this day. at i p.m. For Tauranga, Gisborne, Napier, and Southern Provinces, per Ladybird, to-morrow, at 3 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 2 p.m. Late letters till 3.20 p.m. Per s.s. Wellington,.on Tuesday, Bth instant, as °For India, China, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 7 a.m. For Taranaki, Southern Provinces, Aus tralian Colonies, and United Kingdom, via Suez and Southampton (for letters specially so addressed), at 8 a.m. . , For United Kingdom, via Bnndisi. and late letters for Southern Provinces and Melbourne at 8.20 a.m. For newspapers, at 6 a.m. For money orders and registered letters, the

previous evening, at 4 p.m. Per s.s. Australia, on Tuesday, Bth January, 1878. 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 Europe, at 3 p.m. , For money orders, registered letters, ana newspapers, at 1.30 p.m. . Late letters, bearing an extra fee of 6d, in addition to the postage, will be received by the mail agent on board the steamer up to the

time of sailing. For Port Fitzroy, per Water Lily, te-morrow,

at 3 a.m. —•» -_ . For Whitiangi, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Rowena, to-morrow, at 4 p.m. For Gisborne, per Go-ahead, to-morrow, at

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

4 p.m. For Australian Colonies, per Rotorua, on Tues day, Bth. inst., at 11 a.m. S. B.BlSS,'Chief Postmaster.

There are "land rats and water rats," says Shakespeare, meaning tricksters on land as well as pirates on the sea. A certain class of the former are at present occupying themselves in the preparation and sale of sophisticated liquor disguised in bottles which had for their first contents the finest medicinal beverage of the age, viz., Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aro matic Schnapps. Accent none but the genuine.

BIRTH.

STEVENSON.—On the 28th December, 1877, at Shelly Beach Road, Mrs. R. H. Stevenson of a son.

CIiEARY.—On the 23rd December, at her re sidence, St. Aubyn-street, New Plymouth, Mrs. M. J. Cleary of a daughter.

MARRIAGE.

CAMPION—BAKER.—On the 22nd December, at St. Paul's Church, by the Rev. O. M. JNelson, Rowland R. Campion to Alice K. Baker, both of Auckland.

DEATH.

COSTELLOE.—On the Ist January, at Epsom, Mary, the wife of John Costelloe, aged 52 years. The funeral will leave at 3 p.m. to-morrow. Friends are invited to attend.

McCLOUGHEN.—On the Ist January. 1878, Mr, William McCloughen, late of Mackaytown. Ohinemuri. _~•■, The funeral will leave the Eden Vine Hotel, at 1.30 p.m. on Thursday, the 3rd instant, Friends are respectfully invited to attend.

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 29, 1878.

*>r*j» caate thatlacks assistant*, Far the Trang that needs tesUtiocft FW the future in the d&aacs, Anil:tei'9<Kl*atTit>«asf-«*

A cable despatch to-day conveys, semi-, officially, through Russian channels, the information that the British Government have intimated the possibility of armed in tervention. The consequence is said to be that the Russian Government which, ifc was understood, had refused before, is now will ing to negotiate with the Porte for peace. The attitude of Austria in combination with England, will, no doubt, largely moderate the demands which Russia might feel dis posed to make for a large war indemnity.

Sir George Grey's visit to Napier gave rise to a newspaper discussion turning on a very small point, but 1 eliciting several matters of interest. In addressing the people, the Premier (who recalls reminis cences of his early association with the colony at every place he visits), claimed the honoui of having made the first land purchase in Hawke's Bay. This was dis puted by the friends of the late Sir Donald McLean, and hence the discussion to which we refer. The '" Wananga," Maori news paper, undertakes to set the question at rest, and in the course of an article makes tha following'interesting reference to the two men who have most influenced the Policy of the colony in its dealings with our abbii'gina] population: —

". On tlw; first arrival of Sir George Grey as Governor oif New Zealand, Mr McLean (then called Tavie by the Ngatipaoa, and protected by Patcuo Pahata.tlie- chief of the tribe, with whom h\ lived, and earned on a, timlier trade betweo the Island of Waihcke, intlie ,Guii: *>f Yue Thanu-s, and _Anckland) was tlicn ag _aefciv£s'oimg man,

who, on the disbanding of the then noted ''Protection of Aboriginal Office" by Sir George Grey, was employed as one of th police force, he (Mr McLean) having been ocated at Taranaki, and on the attempt made by a Maori to shoot a European at Whanganui, Mr McLean was, from his active cautiousness, and muscularpower, instructed to capture the would-be Maori murderer. The promptness v. ith which Mr McLean took the Maori introduced him to the notice of Sir George Grey, who shortly after, as a further proof of Sir George Grey's confidence in Mr McLean, gave him a temporary commission to purchase a small block of land in the Taranaki district. This again brought him before Sir George Grey, who used the knowledge which Mr McLean now possessed of the Maori people to complete the negotiations for some land which Sir G. Grey had entered into with the Hawkes' Bay chiefs. Between the time that Sir G. Grey arrived in New Zealand and that in which Mr McLean captured the Maori culprit, Sir G. Grey had resided in the Wellington district; his so doing being consequent on the death of certain Europeans, who Some time before had been killed at Wairau. Sir Q. Grey, as Governor, was the only power in those days of non responsible Government, to whom, and by whom, all Maori matters were referred and negotiated, entered into or completod with the Maori tribes. Te Hapuka and other of the Hawket' Bay chiefs having become dissatisfied with the price given by Dicky Barri and other purchasers of flax, wished to have European settlers in the district of Hawkes' Bay. Hence the action taken by some of those chiefs in visiting Sir G. Grey to offer land, and induce Sir George Grey to buy it. The offer of the land, and the acceptance of the offer of sale, with the power to buy, was all made to and com pleted by Sir George Grey long before Mr McLean (who was all this time in the Taranaki district) had heard of such action on the part of the chiefs, or the purchase made by the Governor. And it was not till he (Mr McLean) had received a letter of instructions from the Governor (Sir G. Grey) to proceed to the _ Hawke's Bay district to hare the land pointed out and surveyed that Mr McLean was trans erred from his police duties and informed to act under Sir George Grey's instructions to purchase land for the Government."

We learn by telegram from Wellington that the Irish immigration office conducted by Mr Samuel Cochrane has been dis continued, closing, consequently, Mr Cochrane's engagement with the New Zealand Government.

Mr C. Basstian, corn, wart, and bunion curer, informs the afflicted by advertise ment in another column, that he may be consulted at the Anchor Hotel, where advice will be given gratis until January sth. Charlie has cured several severe cases of the above annoying " cusses " in Auckland, and is open to kill a few more. While the passengers of the p.s. Enter prise were being conveyed to the steamer from Motutapu shortly before eight o'clock last evening, an accident, which, however, was not attended with any very serious result, occurred. |A boat-load of visitors had reached the vessel's side, but in the flurry caused by climbing up the side of the vessel she capsized, and three ladies and two children were thrown into the water. Fortunately another boat was close at hand, and they were speedily rescued.

At a committee meeting of the Tradesmen' Athletic Club on JMonday night at the Charlemont Hotel, a considerable amount of business was gone through. A programme of an Athletic meeting, to be held on the 29th Jan., was made up, which will be seen on reference to our advertisment columns. Mr Sheppard was appointed judge ; Mr T. Logan, starter; Messrs T. Leary and J. Edmonds, referees ; and Messrs R. Ellis, J, Edmonds, and J. Logan, handicappers. A discussion took place as to what ground the Club would hold their sports in, and it was decided to write to Mr K. Graham in reference to Ellerslie Gardens, and the trustees of the Domain Cricket Ground, to obtain the terms. A committee was appointed to look after the arrange ments connected with a concert to be held the same night. It was decided to bank the monies of the Club in the P.O. Savings Bank.

We have received from our Cambridge correspondent a very full report of the very excellent entertainment -which celebrated the opening of the public hall. Pressure on our space has unavoidably 3xcluded it. Major St. Clare.presided, and made a speech which was highly applauded. Among the ladies and gentlemen who assisted at the concert were Miss Edger, Mrs Macintosh, Mrs Madigan, and Miss Grimes, Messrs Blakey, Stuart, Webb, Wright, and Gar land. Messrs Hicks and Buttle also addressed the meeting. The Cambridge Reed Band were as usual to the front with their important services, and contributed largely to the enjoyment and success of the entertainment. A dance followed, the band playing during the night.

A sad case of cruelty to animals was witnessed in the cutting through. Fort Britomart this morning. A horse and cart belonging to Messrs Andersons & Co. was stuck in one of the ruts of the thoroughfare, and the cart having a very heavy load of firewood —almost two tons—could not be moved by the efforts of the horse, a really fine animal. The driver acted in a shame ful manner, breaking the stock of his whip over the animal's head, and beating it unmercifully, He also used very filthy language. A gentleman expostulated with the young man, but he only became worse. Several ladies were waitingsome time to get past him. "We draw the attention of the young man's employers' to the fact, the horse feeing such a fine tmd valuable animal, that even from a purely business point of view it is anything but wise or profitable to sub ject it to such ill-usuage.

The prize firing of the members of the Waiuku voluntecis took place 011 December 29, when the following prizes were won : — Ist class, Ist prize, Lieutenant Douglas; 2nd prize and 400 yards range prize, S. Jones. 2nd class; Ist prize and 400 yds range prize, H.Gillett; 2nd prize, Irwin ; 3rd prize and 300 yards range prize, Clark. The cadets will fire on the next parade day.

Mr H. Prince notifies by advertisement that he will settle on the present race meet ing to-night at 8 o'clock, as he is going away at once.

A private, subscription ball is to be given to-night at the Parnell Hall, in honour of the Canterbury and Waikato cricketers. Tickets, ten shillings each, may be obtained of the Committee.

©An accident of a very serious nature occurred" to the Hon. J. Sheehan at about two o'clock yesterday morning. He had been witnessing the lire at the Domain, and on coming back called at the Hospital. The night was very dark, and in coming down the front stone steps,' Mr Sheehan thought he had reached the bottom, while in reality he was four steps from it. Consequently upon striding out to walk along what he thought was mother earth, he fell heavily, his chest striking the bottom step. Al though suffering from internal pain, Mr Sheehan did not suspect that any bones were broken, and proceeded homeward, retiring to bed as usual. On awaking the next moraiug he attempted torise, but fainted. Dr Goldsbro' was sent for, and on arrival found that a rib was broken. After having his injuries attended to it was found that M* Sheehan was quite strong enough to go out, and during the day he attended to various official matters, and was at the races in the afternoon. He left this morning by the Hincmoa for the south, via Thames and Tauranga, in company with Sir George Grey, Mr J. C. Brown, and Mr Cadrnan.

are informed that a rifle match at dark targets will be fired at Mount Eden on Saturday next, at 2 o'clock sharp. This match will be open to all comers. PUThe annual races at Waiuku took place on Friday last. The day was not fine, but there was a good attendance. The meeting was very successf nl a no accident of any kind having taken place to mar jjthe pleasure of the visitors.

-^ quadrille party took place at the Cook street Hall last evening. Mr T. Cole acted as M.C., and the dance music was supplied by Messrs Wright (violin) and Craig (harp).

A cricket match at Wharehine, between " Sawdust" and Tauhoa teams was won by the latter with 38 runs to spare.

The pleasure of visitors to the Domain yesterday wai sally enhanced by the choir of the Newton Sunday School, who sang a number of hymns extremely well. A very large crowd assembled around them.

The January number of the " Church Gazette, being the first instalment of the new volume, is specially interesting in its contents. The usual amount of diocesan intelligence and church news appears, with letters pertaining to religious progress in Norfolk Island, and the condition of the Melanesian Mission; also, a brief but interesting biography of the late Joseph Crispe, who died at his country home, Stanlake, Mauku, on the 3rd ult. Mr Crispe was a busy newspaper correspondent and a thorough Church of England Christian. In early life " Old Practical" (Mr Crispe) learned someof the practical lessons of his long life, in the church of Rev Henry Melville, of Camber well, one of the most eloquent of modern Church of England divines, and who after wards succeeded to the Golden Lectureship of the City of London. Notices of Arch deacon Williams, and the congregration of the Rev E. C. Stuart, 8.A.; also, the con clusion of a very pleasant sketch of the island of Waiheke, which is readable and promising. The remainder of the contents are useful hints, extracts from the writings of Bishop Maberly and Matthew Arnold.

Mr H. Brett, Mayor of Auckland, and Mr J. W. Waller, Mayor of Onehunga, have been gazetted Justices of the Peace.

A banquet was giyen by Mr R. Graham on the 28th ultimo at the Hot Springs. Special invitations were issued to the settlers of the district, and a most agreeable evening was spent. Mr R. Graham presided, and after the usual loyal and patriotic toasts had been drunk, the important improvements effected in the district came in for their share of eulogistic remarks. The health of the Premier, Sir George Grey, was drunk with enthusiasm. Captain Krippner proposed the health of Mr R. Graham, who in responding spoke in complimentary terms of the progress made by the German settlers of Puhoi. Captain Krippner replied on behalf of his fellow-settlers, and the proceedings closed with dancing.

Mr Stephen Massett's_ Drawing-room entertainment of elocution, imitation, song, reading, comicality and fun, will take place at the Choral Hall, on Monday, Wednes day, and Friday evenings of next week. " Galighams Messenger," of Paris, says : " Stephen Massett's olla podrida proved a decided success, the large concert room of Philippe Hertz Rue Clary was crowded to excess. What seemed to strike everybody was the extraordinary ease with which he went through his arduous undertaking. Here was a man who for nearly t\VO hours spoke, sang, gave clear imitations, changing his voice in a dozen different ways, and giving a won derful imitation in high soprano of Madame Anna Bishop, and still ct the close^ he seemed just as fresh as when he began."

The electors of City West are invited to meet their member, Dr Wallis, in the Young Men's Christian Association Rooms to-night. The chair will be taken by Mr A. Black at eight o'clock.

PONSONBY WESLEYAN PICNIC.

The Lallaßookh, whichhad been previously chartered, conveyed about 150 of the Sun day-school teachers, congregation, and friends of the above body to the island of Motutapu, and from the happy and con tented faces of old and young it must have proved a most enjoyable occasion. During the whole day we did not hear a single expressiou of dissatistaction. The Com mittee, it appears, had provided for only about 100 ; so that on account of the large number present provisions got rather scarce about tea time, and as a large proportion of them, we believe, belong to the Tem perance Band it was rather unfortunate. The milk also gave out before it should have done; however, these accidents seemed of little moment, and when all was eaten, various games soon engrossed the mind. One most noticeable and pleasing feature of this picnic was the presence of an har monium on board, so that on the passage down and up almost a constant succession of pieces, principally of the Moody and Sankey collection, were j ined in by all on board. Various games had been provided by the committee for all parties, and while the more hardy of the party indulged in cricket, football, etc., the gentler portion betook themselves to croquet, rounders, etc. After some singing under the shade of the trees the party began to assemble on board the steamer, and started for town about 7 o'clock, arriving at the wharf about half past eight, without accident of any kind, and well pleased with the day's outing, w^t,

SCOTTISH BAND PICNIC AT WOOD SIDE.

The members of the new Scottish Com pany's Drum and Fife Band held a picnic at Woodside. They marched through Queen-street to the wharf, playing popular aii s,to the delight of a large number of chil dren, who accompanied them to the steamer. They left at about 10 o'clock, and arrived at Woodside shortly before half-past ten. The usual games were then entered into by the members of the Band and visitors, of whom there were many. Refreshments were pro* vided during the day. The party will arrive in town at 6 o'clock, and the quad rille party takes place at 7.30.

NORTH SHORE.

A large number of persons took the opportunity of visiting the strawberry gar dens and other pleasant nooks at the North Shore to-day. The steamers of the Ferry Company were running constantly dining the day, taking many visitors. The Willow Grove Strawberry Gardens were, as usual, the resort of many holiday makers. The supplies of strawberries were unlimited, and there was no difficulty in obtaning plenty of cream.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before P. A. Philips Esq., Justice of the

Peace.)

IN THE SUN.—Four persons were fined 5s each for being in the «un, or drunk, yesterday Sailors. — Benjamin Lawsey and Thomas Byrne were charged with using unseemly language yesterday on board the Ladybird, on her passage to the Hot Springs.— The men pleaded guilt/.—The captain said the men were generally well-1 beha.ved, and as he was about to-sail ho should require their services.—Mr Philips gave the men a severe reprimand, and on the recommendation of the captain, allowed them to return to the ship.

Assaulting a Wife. —Peter McKenna was remanded until to-morrow, on a charge of striking' his wife. PILUHAcfr.-—A man named George Burden Avas charged with being of unsound mind, and remanded for medical examination.

This was all the business.

THE DOMAIN.

Thk Domain was well pationised to-day, especially in the afternoon, by pleasure seekers. A number of stalls were erected on the ground for the supply of refreshments to visitor?. The usual games, such as Mss in - the-riug, jolly miller, French tig, rounders, &c. were indulged in. In the early part of the afternoon several cricket matches of very slight importance were

ulaved.

THE HON. J. SHEEHAN AT WAIWERA.

AT^the invitation of the Hon. J. Sheehan S+Vl ladies and gentlemen accompanied Hto Wahvera on Monday laat, in the BUmoa. The steamer left .the wharf at Spast one o'clock, and arrived at Wai waaboutfour. The passage down was gr?aty enjoyed by the visitors. Luncheon was Jived in the saloon. On arrival at Waivera a lame crowd had assembled at the S An Address of welcome to the Son. . Sheehan was read by Mr Bobert Grahau. It bore the signatures of about 30 setters. In the address, Mr Sheehan was cotgratulated upon his accession to office, S nd requested to obtain justice for the distict. In replying, Mr Sheehan re ferred o previous disadvantages under which tie district had laboured, noticmq especiall their misrepresentation by the Oppositm members. Matters, however, would bernore satisfactory and pleasant for them unor the present Government, le Hemara, 'he principal Maori chief ot tne district, rad aa address from the natives, to Avhich Br Sheehan replied in the Maori language, [n doing so, he said there should be no Hauauism or Kingism. Many ot the visitorshaving indulged m a dip and partaken of ea at the hotel, the party re turned to to>n. During the passage up, music and siging was the order of the day. Before landig, the health of Mr Sheehan was proposed'by Mr Moorhouse, M.M.X., in a speech iiwhich the Native Minister s ability and giat popularity in the House ot Eepresentativs was warmly eulogised. The toast wadrunk with musical honours. Mr Sheehan feplied in suitable terms. After three herty cheeis had been given for their entertainr, the company landed at the wharf shortly tefore eight o'clock, highly delighted wi'thjheir day'a entertainment.

AUCKLAND 'ACING CLUB SUMMER MEETING.

(YESTEDAY —2ND DAY.)

The second dajof the Summer meeting was successful s far as weather and at tendance are conmied, but certainly could not be called a go'jl day's sport. Mr Walter's stable was in rar€ettle, and landed as we anticipated nearljjevery race. But these certainties spoilt;,he speculation. We never recollect seeig so little betting on the course. The boolpakevs sauntered about the paddock with ttir handsiintheirjpockets looking heartily bo;d with the whole con cern, and it was onl when the club handi cap was about t start that their pencils were at all in request. The outside sports w»e well patronised, and the Chevaliers d'ind^trie did a good trade. The hot weather keptthe booths well sup plied with customers. Mr C B. Edwards, who catered for the Gind Stand, supplied the wants of the innfi man satisfactorily, and for 2s 6d gave quitas good a luncheon as has hitherto been oft-ed at ss. This is a move in the right dfection. To say a word about the sportJEsaac Walton cut down his opponents inthe Selling Stakes like a thorough race brse. He seems to have given up all his d tricks, and goes as straight and asHrue as steel. In the Publicans' Pun and the Grand Stand Handicap we wertfavoured with a sight of Hippocampus, Ihe favourite for the coming Dunedin Cup His appearance was such as to give everyncouragement to his backers for the great ice of the colony. During the winter he has rown an inch or more in height, and is no\& horse of about 15st 31bs, or thereabouts^and displays a nicely proportioned, well hit, though not very muscular frame, withM any trace of infirmity of any sort. Hisjhead is small and racing like, and his le^ hard looking and flat. When extended he shows to great advantage, as he has | easy swing ing stride, without any wasfef propelling powers in the airs. The oinion of the cognoscenti, after seeing him was that he is fully entitled to tb position he occupies as favourite for th; great race. After his two victories, which \;re achieved in ridiculously easy fashion|thc longest price obtainable about him forlunedin was sto 1. Venus Transit, altho^h she won the Derby against the moderatejueen Mab, proved by her wretched runing in the Glub Handicap that there was bthing sus picious in the poor show shefeaade last week for the Cup. Lara won tl} Handicap almost as easily as he did|the Cup, giving his opponent lumps of vifght. He is evidently not much inferfr to his half-brother Opawa, and he alsdesembles him in the fact that he is doubly^seful as a stud horse and a racer. His viqmes will give him a 71bs. penalty in the Vfellington Cup which will bring his weight \> to 7st. 91b., at which he ought to show prominently. We regret to have to record a prottt which was laid against him by the rideibf Elsa yesterday for an alleged cross in tkQutting. We believe it is maintained byHodson that when Lara was leading by scfcely a length he crossed in front of Eh, and secured the -^inside running) Resides threw the mare out of: her |tride. The decision which was given to-by at noon will be found elsewhere. TH only outsider Avhose running was notevjjrthy, was Golden Crown. He was going well in the Grand Stand Handicap when he bolted, that many persons, includh^ his owner, declared he could have won hut this opinion is not entertained by thejbest judges, who ussigiiShim the place of jhird best in the race, which coincides with our own ideas. The following are the results of the running : — DERBY Stakes, of 100 soys., added i a sweep of 10 soys. each, h. ft., Colts}Bst lOlbs ; fillies and geldings, Sst 51bs. lis tance, lj miles. Closed, 15 subscribe^. Mr W. Walters' eh f Venus Transil, byt Derby or Sledmere—Peeress, Sst 51bs\ (French) !U Mr A. Buckland's blk f Queen Mab, byt <■■ Derby—Una, Bst 51bs (D. Taylor) .. ~'i

Betting, 2to 1 on Venus Transit. The race was expected to be a good cue, but was expected to be a good one, but turned out quite the contrary. It was run at^ a'j middling pace all through, and the favorite; won haM held by several lengths. Tim«,| 3 rnin. 2 sees. / Selling Kace, of 50 soys., with a sweep stakes of 3 soys. "Weight for age. Wft nerto he sold for £300 soys. If eutei'd

to be sold for 200sovs, allowed 71b? ;U for lOOsovs, 141bs ; if for 50 soys, 2111k Distauee, 1 mile and a distance. ' L Mr W. Walters' br h Izaak Walton, hy.h. Dainty Ariel —Fanny Fisher, 5 yeaif (£300), 9st 41bs (French) ..." .j 1 Mr F. Bolton's b g Tom Finn, C yeain (£200), Bst lliba (Copestake) ... ' 4 2 Mr James Hunt's eh g Staverton, lafe Cockfighter, 3 years (£SO), 6st 4lfe (Howe)' ! ... 3 Mr E. Wynyarcl's cli g The Pope, 3 yis. (£100), 6st lllbs (Carrington).. 'i.. 0 Mr J. P. Lennard's eh m lially, 4 years, (£SO), 7st 41bs (D. Hughes). - MJt- 0 Betting 3 to 1 on the "winner, who waited waited on his field until half way round, when lie came through and won easily by two lengths. There was no bid'at the entered price, and he was not sold*v Publicans' Plkse, of 60sovs., with a sweepstakes of 2sovs. each; to go to second horse. Weight for age. Distance, 1 mile. Mr W. WaltefV br h Hippocampus, by Dainty Ariel—Fanny Fisher,^ 4 years, 9st (French) j Mr H. Horsfall's b c Katcatchers, 3 years, 7st lllbs (Hughes) 2 i\ ro betting. For the sake of appearances French made the semblances of a race with his apponent, and only won by a length, which might have been fifty at pleasure. Time 2min. 4sec. Auckland Racing Club Handicap, of 200sovs., sweepstakes of ssovs. each ; to second horse. Distance, If miles. Mr F. Bolton's b h Lara, by Towton, 5 years, Sst lOlbs, (Copestak'ej 1 Mr Chadwick's ir m Elsa, 5 years, 7st lOlbs, (Hodgson,) 2 Mr S. (J. Cauitan's b h,Gillie Callum, 5 years, 7st 41bs, (Taylor) ... ... 3 Mr W. Walter's eh f Venus Transit, 3 vptii'C! *7sif 0

Mr S. Horsfall's b f Rossalie, 3 years, 6| 81bs(Lee) •}. v Betting: Evens on Lara; 2to 1 oar one." Elsa went off with the lead, but was collared by Lara on passing the sand the first time. Gillie Callum going on third, Venus Transit fourth, and Roiihe last. Lara and Elsa kept close togeth^1 all round. This order was maintained tqthe finish, Lara coming in first by a length jind a half. , After the race, a protest was entffed against the winner for crossing Elsa atthe cutting. The stewards heard the evideice, and postponed their decision until to-ay, at noon.

Gkand Stand Handicap of lOOso-s., ■with a sweepstakes of ssovs. ea*h; amount accruing from sweepstakes togo to second horse. Distance. 1J miles. Mr W. Walters' br h Hippocampus, 4 years, 9st 31bs (French) ... 1 Mr F. Bolton's b h Lara, 5 years, Bst 121bs (Copestake 2 Mr O. C. McGee's b m Perfume, aged, Bst (Hodson) 3 Mr A. H. W. Hill's chg Golden Crown, aged, 7st 0 Mr S. C. Caulton's b h Gillie Callum, 5 years, 7st (D. Taylor) 0 Mr A. Buckland's bl f Queen Mab, 3 0 years, 6st (T. Taylor) ..." 0 Mv C. B. Edward's br c The Baron, 3 years, sst 71bs (Carrington) 0 Mr A. Spencer's b f Jessamine, 3 years, sst 71bs (Byers) 0

Betting 3 to 1 on Hippo., 3 and 4 to 1 against anything else. Perfume delayed the start for some time by her fractio'usness, and then Golden Crown bolted, going about a quarter of a mile before he could be stopped. When, the start took place, the favourite seemed in no hurry, but allowed Golden Crown, Jessamine, Lara, and Perfume to take a good lead. Golden Crown ran uncommonly well, and maintained command of affairs uutil the turn into the straight, where Hippo was on terms. At this critical point the saddle of the Croon's rider slipped round, and the boy was nearly unseated? The accident caused the horse to bolt inside the course. Hippo, then went on, and won comfortably by two lengths from Lara, Per fume being a good third. Time, 2mxn. 20sGcr Hack Hurdle Race of lOsovs. Entrance, lsov. No weight under lOst. Winner to be sold for 25sovs ; any surplus to go to the funds. Distance, once reund; over four flights of hurdles. Mr McGee's Temperance 1 Mr Wilson's Hurricane ... 2

Mr May's Telltale, Mr Kelly's Czar, Mr McKay's Eclipse, Mr Taylor's Longfeltw, Mr Chetfield's Sovereign, also ran. Betting 6 to 4 against Hurricane. 2to 1 against Czar, 3to 1 against others. lem perance and Czar went away with the fcad. Czar failed to stay home, and Temperance, after nearly coming down at the last hudle, won by three lengths.

TO-DAY.

THE STEEPLECHASE,

The steeplechase day is alwa Ts a favourite day with the public, and the present anniversary was no excejpion. The weather was all that could be deared, and the attendance fully equalled tkt of yesterday, so that the Club ought t« bake a handsome profit on the meeting Mr Percival was out on the course at htlfpast ten, and showed the jockeys romj the steeplechase course, which was fliihtly different from that of the last twa jjsars. On arriving at the course at halfpast 12 our representative inquired the dedsijn of the stewards as to the objection on ihejßac ing Club Handicap. The answer yasthat it was not yet decided, and the cl<?Qdjloor of the Committee showed tiatthe Committee were still in solemn ronckve. At a few minutes before one the door was opened, and it was announced hat the protest had been sustained, and t|e sjikes awarded to Elsa. We understancftha-the result was arrived at mainlji on the evidence of Copesteake, tie riaer of Lara who admitted^ that •vtienf |tke horses were passing the rails by the gate (the cross did not take place in tie cutting as reported) he took the insidf ruraiig when Elsa was on his quarter. Tfe dedsiqn was not at all favourably receivid, ai tlje opinions of most of our best raciig nun is that as-the first took place too far iron home to affect the issue of titrate, ± should only have been visited bya ceususp upon the jockey. This view of th* subject b supported by the fact that on sifch course as Chester, Hampton, and othas, ct<bs<s and jostles occur frequently, ?but: ihep never affect the result of the raje. ' It s unfortunate that the protest shmld hyw been against a visitor, for irrespective <f its being right or wrong, it will te likel^i militate against Southern proprietors <f horses bringing up their teams to'otr meetings. The only scratching of importance ;p ;♦ the time of the bell ringing was tl*»* Tim Finn for the Steeplechase. Makes' Produce Stakes, of 100 o^ added to a sweepstakes of 10 soys. 3&h. One mile and a quarter. Mr W. Walter's eh f Venus Transit, Sst )M (inc. 51ds. extra) (French) .. .. f \ Mr A. Bnckland's blk f Queen Mab, BstS>| J Mr R. Wynyard's eh g The Pope, Bst lOll'f- • Mr A. Spencer's b f Jessamine, Sst 51b.. .|- « Betting : 3 to 1 on the winner. The two kept together right twgl] and a slashing race at the finish, ofpiclj both jocks were hard at work, cdl ii favour of the filly by a neck. $f nc} lost a stirrup in the race. fi The competitors for the Steefßhasi were eagerly scrutinised in the a^ock Whitefoot looked well, and quj^'ovef topped his rivals in point of size, jb wk much liked, but there seemed to $n in pression that he would baulk at Sstoie walls. s , Don Juan is a commanding but'onpaft aark chesnut, with a star on hisiche^. He looked in capital condition, exsH thit his hind legs was suspiciously puiy. Perfume was one of the last t< Jrivefn the paddock, already saddled for lie c& test. Her coat looked brighter mi Ovp McGee's horses generally are, aidipe "^s cocky, not to say peacocky/ia "ik mfe monts. By the side of Wliitefoctjtid'ion Juan, she appeared small to carrjfet 4ss, but blood has to be considered

Butcher Boy was the same < going animal as ever. He shov

Kstefy !6i"jfof if $

good work, and still looked sou

THE RACE.

A THIRD VICTORY FOR PSFISE. A good start was effected, a||the|rst jump (the- double hurdles) waJaMf 'n the following order: Bntchcrjr, "Vjpte food, Perfume, Don Juan. In D| re fused, and took no part in the #• J The other four went on in|>se jder until reaching the road, whereiw h-jfoot refused, and was no more see&i tljpon test. Up the hill the order \va|boE5 ian j Butcher Boy, and Perfunie|all; hree within 20 yards. Down the If a#" r+ the stand Butcher Boy and Dffjud^ ' re side by side, Perfume about f |gtlj| \ue rear. Round they went feneiijbea|f ullv and taking stone walls, feneaiedssf-; llu ditches as easily as shelling .'fas. lf in" the hill the second time Perfpe li§" <; go up, and loud shouts weraaise^ favour. Close to Eller.slie Hpc sbl',;;-!! up to Butcher Boy, who wasfcadiil ll! ' at the next jump her jubfht p^f ' were suddenly cast down bypoth f| ' ; and the Boy coming a crlpcr. '£}[' looked as if the race was a claintyft , ' ' Juan, and his name was p ev#' rooutli. But now anothj crjl :i;^ '"'Tommy's up," "Perfninfc up,f the mare appeared over tlierest offl^.;'.^ about 100 yards behind Dp Jujj i v she catch him ? Impossfle ij| , Yes, she will. "Perfumer ''iff"" was screamed on all sidoslstheE soon to be going up hand K'er ti«#' the hill they came. Oulyt thirtS : ~'"' to go and still 50 yards t><*vee!!. Jr """ it is a splendid race, and to ' v* the Stand is somethingsrcnieff" '-^ £ka..la<d;—■uinrn—hut_ruie. -aiUJiaxl^^

romhome, only.fto yards intervened «t> fura's race!' |<Perfume's the Zi3T yrasagam the sM outj an( j now there »!" ansyer from th<* Don Juanites ; their KllO tirei, his jockey|i s riding hj m hard noK, e shotts aud chejbrs increase to thund c Peiiume aboutS|oo yds from horn c sailT was galbnt oppoiuAt. The game m are , er at She last j|#ip as strong as a lion ? hush of excitfljient as she rises at it \A is orer ! and jjle grandest steeplechase p see» in Auckl*d is won by five length Handicap Sjeeplechase, of 150 soy ■with a sw#pstakes of 5 soys. e Jij'' amount acffjliing from sweepstakes to t» second worse. Distance, about fi niiles, over fc, fair hunting country Mr 0. C. MoGe<p bm Perfume, 12st 41b \ku. »on) .- J-- •• * . Mr Thos. Stephens ns chg Don Juan,lostnf D Mr J. Buckland's'chg Butcher Boy, n s t qfr: 2 Mr S Horsfall sbg Whitefoot, lOst nib " „ Mr M Edgar's The Don, lOst .. . -J{ Mr T.'Bolton's b g Tom Finn, lOst 91b.. - £ Betting : 2 to 1 on the field. - v Hudson, the rider of Perfume, was lo^j cheered on returning to weigh. He w^ much cut about the face, and he deseryeg great credit for his pluck. Owen McGee also came in for an ovation. Mr Alfre( Isaacs is getting up a subscription fo Hudson, and has already got £15. Auckland Plate of 100 soys, with a • sweept takes of 5 soys each ; amonit accruing from sweepstakes to go to second horse. Weight for age. Tvv o

miles. 5r Walters's br h Hippocampus, 9st .. ,;. j Jlr A. Buckland's blk g Magician, 9st 7ib .. 2 Ir A. H. W. Hill's eh gGolden Crown,93tflb 8 Sr W. Percival's br g Kavenshoe, 9st 61b .. 9 Mr S. T. Horsfall's br f Rosalie, 7st 41b ~ -^ to S. C. Caulton's b h Gillie Callum, Bst 61b 0 JMr Chad wick's gr ra Elsa, 9st 31b .. .. q M" F. Bolton's b h Lara, 9st 61b .. .. ~ q M* W. Walters's eh f Venus Transit, 7st 41b 0 Golden Crown made the running, a t. teided by Magician. Hippo went up on th? far side the second time round, and wen hard held by a neck. Stewards Handicap of 100 soys., vitha jwoopatukeii of 3 Dove. cacTi for acceptors • amount accruing from sweepstakes to go to second horse. Acceptances with 3 soys. by 1 p.m. on the day of the race, on the Course. Distance, 1 mile and a dis-

tance. Jf rW. Walters' br h Izaak Walton, Bat 81bs.. I Mr F. Bolton's br h Lara, Bst 121b3 .. ..2 Mr Percival's eh g Chanticleer, 6st 121bs .. q >Ir S. T. Horsfall's b c Ratcatcher, 63t 71bs .. o

Holiday Excursions.

The wharf was all alive yesterday morning with holiday people hurrying to the various waiting steamers to convey them to some tree-shaded isle or remote. locality. Some preferred a trip to

THE KAWAU.

and the s.s. lona conveyed a large number of excursionists to this charming resort, the island home of Sir George Grey. On the trip down Captain Farquhar passed close to the ship City of Auckland, home ward bound, and the compliment was acknowledged by a hearty cheer from Captain Rails and the passengers. The hon. the Premier was among those on bpard the lona, and on arrival at the island he threw open his beautiful mansion ;and grounds for the entertainment of the visitors. It is needless t:> say that all enjoyed themselves thoroughly, and before the departure of the steamer a round of cheers were given for Sir George for his hospitality and kindness to the pleasure seekers. The lona returned shortly before eight o'clock in the evening, the Premier coming to town by her. The Engineer Volunteers preferred the more open island of

MOTUIHI for the enjoyment of the annual picnic, and by nine o'clock the s.s. Takapuna was literally loaded with the officers and men, their wives, children, friends; and most remarkable to state, 78 babies in arms were counted in the boat, and they were mosfc* remarkably good until evening came on. The use of the island was kindly granted by Major Green for the picnic, and he accompanied the party. "We believe the officers were all present, excepting Lieu^ Kitchen, who was prevented from taking part In the excursion by indisposition. The Hobson Band, under the direction of Mr J. Christopher, played merrily to and fro, and also at the dance in the large room of the quarantine buildings. Sub- Xieut. Saunders, Mr E. Dawson, and the committee did their best in providing for the people, but found it impossible to gtve satisfaction to all. The landing of the ladies in small boats, and the carrying them over the water gby the ggallantjjvolunteers, wac a sight worthy of an artist. The young people evidently enjoyed themselves folly, in dancing, kiss-in-the-ring, and other games; whilst those more advanced in years sought the shady places of the island, and took it easy. The boat returned from the pier a few minutes after seven, reaching the yfharf at 9.20, the band playing a num ber of welj-known airs, and. the minstrels singing occasional carols during the passage. The Artillery Volunteers sought the neigh bouring island of ' .

for their annual picnic. Tlic.7- ware evader - the command of Captain Burns. The island was kindly granted by Messrs Reid. The Thames Naval Brigade, under Captain Best, were also present by invitation. The p.s. Enterprise was the steamer chartered for the occasion, and left the Queen-street j wharf about 9.15. So great was the crowd that a large number of excursionists were left behind. The island was reached pbout eleven o'clock, and the lauding effecteA safely. One young lady; rlldwever, had a very narrow escape of a duelling. Dancing, kiss-in-the-ring, jolly miller, and a number of other games were at once indulged in, to the enjoyment of all. The music was pro vided by the splendid Artillery Band, under Bandmaster Hunter. The return home was made in tv,-o trips, the Enterprise leaving the island at 4, and again at 7 p.m. ■

SUNDAY-SCHOOL UNION ANNUAL FETE.

The annual procession and fete of the children attending the various schools^ in connection with the Sunday-school Union took place yesterday, and we may say, without fear of contradiction, that it wasa great success. The weather was splendid and all thatcould be desired. In accordance with previous announcement the scholars assembled at their respective schoolrooms, avd marched from thence to the foot of Wellesley-street, where the} were formed into a procession. During the time which was spent there the children sang a number of Moody and Sankey's hymns very pleasantly! At half-past nine o'clock, the procession started for the Domain in the following order : — Templars' Brass Band, consisting of about 12 instrumentalists. jNeWTON CONGREGATIONAL SCHOOL- ~ 150 scholars, under the following Teachers : Messrs. Enoch Wood (Superintendent). W. Sn-^ Wehstei Ellveifc, EdwinrVfo^a, s!.-teS» iWliitcj, R. V .tter, A. We. : M.i?"S',To"] >*oi/j PoUiir, Carlow. Harki; , ► JNITIjD P-Bi". MjOTHDIHST SCHOOI* — ■;,'. echobu-s, and tii*; iolh wing toachri»; Haig "TiKlehops ; "'■ ■ ■■ •■■ Dkfooj; rh.- m \ [tend i t), Gaul! AW -to I) Froiioh, Whitdiead, _; ■■ .«r.;.-.,. :^^hop-> it'il&y, Spiiidley, McKenzie. lEANKLra Rojuj ■ ■ -- -■ schokrs1. Te«»fthow : Miss IC i>: D i^is. K^na |Saperbitendent)j iioliu^ton, afld. A.d»fcg- St. JAMFS' SCH^k-.- 380 :-r Fars Petev Mackici, Suj)c feuend nt). ; ■;.<-;.;■• Mi^vi-s ■ V 'v'-*i^n.,i. StLt..'^:, :ioiu...erviii?; Wa&er, Mereerj H Mercer, Home, O:dvy>- Kennedy G^lw© KatcHfiV> * .Go'w, Allied, Goi*layi "iJ anaa, M. Donaldson, J. .DoiiS^" son. Lloyd ; *?Mts Watsohj Jklra Goarl?y ; M^4rs: J/Mazky, T. 'Mr-oky, JBvhc, McXab, lvscLeo<l, John Ha;ma, T. llan^^ •Tow;vnU ffaalia; Steeir;, Goluie. Blolihj?®«^ >, G-)\^ McKerras, JMaCoskrie, Hauiil- Ere jViv. Tt:i ■. y\ : _____■——,

THE VENING SIM R, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2, 1878.



QN THIS DAY AND DURING THE WEEK, WTS WILL SHOW PIEoS ES 10,000 PI^ CES FASHIONABLE DRESS GOODS AND *s- prints, -m REDUCED TO HALF PRICE IN ORDER TO CLEAR. J. COSGRAVE & CO., QUEEN-STREET. NEVER * Have the Public had such a Choice of BED STEADS offered them as at the present time Besides our already well assorted Stock of Iron Bedsteads, and those of our own manu facture in Kattrt, Rimtt, Cedak, and Mottled Kauri, we ask them to bear in MIND that, we have Just Opened Up, ex ''Otaki,' TWO HUNDRED IRON BEDSTEADS of thft moat modern style, comprising' French, Hat,f Tester, Children's, and Stbtmps, also Cots, at Prices to suit all classes. Having purchased for Cash from THE Best Manufacturers, we can SELL A GOOD BEDSTEAD at A Very Low Price. BEDDING, of every description, kept in Stock. HOUSES FURNISHED THROUGHOUT at a Short Notice. Our system is to make a large return ; to insure this We Sell for Ready CASH at a. SM-4.t.T.-I>EOJB!EP^-and__nEIJVJER ROODS FREE to any part of the Town and Suburbs. m~ Give your Furnishing Order to Holloway, Garlick & Cranvell, CABINETMAKERS, UPHOLSTERERS, A3STP CLOTHIERS, City Hall Arcade, QUEEN & LORNE-STREETS AUCKLAND. THE undersigned are now brin ing forward a Large Parcel of GENE AL DRAPERY, HABERDASHERY, &C, bought at considerably less than usual prices, to which they invite the attention of all requiring Good Value For Money. Corsets in great variety of quality and style, white and coloured, from 2/6 per pair Linen and Lace Goods, Cuft3, Collars, and Sets, in variety Ladies Underclothing Umbrellas and Parachutes, Silk, Zanella, Alpacca, &c. • Lot of Flowers at very low price, quite fresh Straw Hats, Ribbons, Gloves, &c. A Splendid Stock of Muslin, Lace, and Lenoe Curtains, Counterpanes, Quilts, Damask Table Cloths, Sheeting, Felt Squares Carpets, Floorcloth, China Matting, Ticks, &c. L.arge-size Huckaback Towels at /6 each. New Fancy Dress Materials, Japanese Silks, Cotaared Lustres, Blaok Lustres. Embossed, Striped, and Check Muslins. Prints, &c. Brown Holland, from l&s per yard Union, Fancy Jean, and Oxford Shirtings, very cheap A Line of Superior Quality Silk Mixed Fancy Shirting, at 2/3, usual prico 3/6 per yard White and Grey Calico. Good Grey from /3 per yard Also. very large assortment of Gents' Shirts, White Tjongelota, Union and All-^rool Crimean, Fancy Silk Mixed Scotch Twill, Fancy Jean, Oxford, &c. Strong Tweed for Boys wear A Job Line of Stout Mosgiel at below Factory Braces, Belts, Ties, Scarfs, Collars, Cotton and Merino Hosiery, Undershirts, &c. Leghorn, Tuscan, Straw, and Drill Hats, for Boys and Men, &c, &c., &c. in he & allowed on all Cash Purchases of 20s. and upwards. RUSHBROOK & BRTDGMAN, Junction Drapery Warehouse, Upper Oujsbn-stkeet. AUcrtT.ANrn. CARPETS, HEARTHRUGS, LINOLEUM, FLOORCLOTH. T. & H. COOKE Beg to inform their friends and the public that they have imported a large assortment of the above, which will render their FURNISHING ESTABLISHMENT one of the most complete and extensive in Auckland, having purchased these" Goods of the Manufacturers direct, for cash, they are enabled to offer them at VERY LOW .PRICES- New Patterns in Carpets ■imBJT/lnoleicm. ill- #iJ O W BO 0M S: 67, Queen-stre^S. Sfsam- Cabinet Factory Victoria-street. ?S ■:- irshio of coi;e as a fuel, and as a ofct. :'■ ■ ' ""-• ■'•■'■oviv of coal, is not appreciated J : -'< -." A r.uxed Mcl of coal and coke :' •■-■'■*• 1: -■ W ;r,e 'fcvaina'ry purposes of :.,?:;I 'iiiore for those cooking sine! 3 -•• :■-asitabsorW j^ sm oke * : j:'.y-:\ri•■■■:■.. rases given oft by coa i :. : .; c<:m'•('.'■ lion, and renders the N tire .;..., .;,.,"/■-'.'. aiicl hotter. This is muck. » :; c t ". -:* wlier.e our local coals are ! rd i:v<ring to the rapidity of .; :- .. Bdrae 61 u*.ese threaten to go out of ■■-.-. . ••"'ii:;r.-.j ii!" ;ether. Coke supplies •#s*tlv*tiiat which -;hese coals lack—body ••.-...-: .--'^vuii.c. l ' siy householder .should pais'ai»<i eok/i at the same time, and, if . ii€n*t; n;i-. them ;'smaller bills and r.z-:i-vv .-Jj'ii will bo the result The evho '■:-: 'Tivt- is elsewhere—



UNION INSURANCE COMPANY, AUCKLAND BRANCH. Reduced Ratss for Detached Dwelling Houses in the City, from 12s. upwards. In the Country from 13s. H . STKVENSON , Manager. THORNTON. SMITH. AND FIRTH'S PRICES CURRENT (WHOLESALE). Subject to alteration without notice. ~~Sacks. 100's. 50*9. Cr pO wnßrand Flour, Z s. <L « s. d. gs. d. T|rS CanterbOTy 16 0 0 16 10 0 17 0 0 Meal for Pig-feed .. 710 0 Sharps 710 0 .. .. Fowl Wheat '.'. ".'• 4s. to 4s. 6d. per bushel. The above prices include sacks and bags; sacks and bags not retornable. Terms: Cash. December 21,1877. ■ /-(HEAP JJ A 1 S|! CHEAP^SpWrmNGH A Quantity of Men's and Boy's Drab and a Parcel of CLOTHING, comprising Men's and Boy's Tweed Suits Trousers and Vests &c. These Goods are slightly soiled, and wifl be sold REALLY CHEAP. W. RATTRAY, CLOTHIER AND OUTFITTER. vrEW EAL A N TJOUSE, Attckland. UNION INSURANCE .COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND. CAPITAL £2.000,000. AUCKLAND BRANCH: QUEEN-STREET, Next the Colonial Bank. FIRE DEPARTMENT. granted on . Dwelling - houses Stores, Shops, Buildings in which trade is carried on, Mercs andise, and Goods of every description. MAKINE DEPAKTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers, Merchandise of all kinds, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, at owest Current Rates. R. H. STEVENSON Manager.