SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

m^T, fThis Afternoon, 4.42 HIUII WATER— f T o- m orrow Morning, 0.7 SUN SET.—This Evening, 6.35 SUN RISE.-To morrow Mor mng .°-*J MOONSAGE,-New Moon, 4th, 2.06 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Argyle, s.s., Stephenson, rrom wangarei w*. HauSdfT^' OpkeS- £r°m Waitara (in the mi^.n?he, Uihooner, from Wellington (in the

Kenl'^aSchooner. McDonald, for Lyttelton, Onward, schooner, Pankou, from RusseU,

DEPARTURES.

Teh Fle<»t. ship, Robinson, for London. Wi'd Duck, ketch, for Dunedin (from the

ilarmkaa)

IMPORTS,

Per \rsrvle >from Wangarei:—* 60 U«'?nn, 3 horse?. 3 tons marble stone, S cases fows. 53 case 3 fruit, 20 boxes butter and Thides 1 bale sheepskins.—lreland Bros. « boxes fruit.—R. Arthur. S sacks gum.—G. W. Owen. 13 -"cks gum.—Ovren & Graham.

EXPORTS.

Per Southern Cross: 3 cases bedsteads, 1 d°pJfSfwSl£'!!K^ 80,000 feet timber, 17 packages sashes. 200 doors.

DEPARTURE OF THE LOCH FLEiT. The fine ship Loch Fleet sailed for London, witb a fair breeze, early this morning. She takes s. large and valuable cargo or wool, srurn, manganese, Sec, the items of which appeared in Wednesday's issue. We wish the vessel and her genial and hea:ty skipper a pleasant and Srosyerous voyage, and hope we may soon have the pleasure of again recording their arrival in of the Cargo.—The following is the total value of the cargo of the Loch Fleet :— Wool, £15.701 9s ; kauri gum, £9923; leather, £.5573: coora, £2700: manganese. £500 ; tallow, £306; wheat, £232; bark. £260; bopea. £2o ; whalebone £20; beeswax, £15; sundries, £lo; cotton, £5; bones, £3-total, £35,134 9s.

The schooner Amaranthe arrived in the Maaukau to-day from Wellington. The barque Apelles hauled away from the wharf into the stream this morning. The barque Lake St. Clair entered outwards in ballast to-day for Mahurangi. In our last evening's issue "the barge Lake Superior" was reprinted "the barque Lake ThesA Rotorua left Port Chalmers for the North yesterday, with several passengers. The t>.s. Hauraki arrived m the Manukau, from Waitara early this morning. The B.s. WaUabi left the Manukau for Weßganui this afternoon. . Th° = s. Argyle, Captain Stephenson, arrived in harbour at 6 o'clock this morning, from Wan^a-ei and Wangapai. She brings a full general cargo, and the following passengers :— Mesdames, McLecd. Maltby. ffil Eraser, Stringer, Gaze, Morgan, Misses Maltby and Davis. Messrs Vickery, Lanigan. Stewart, Bovrdec, Thompson, Frater, Fulton Clark, McColloch, Gaze, Morgan, McMillan, E. McMillan. HaswelL Carrol, McLennan, and gjThe ketch Maid of the Mill cleared outwards to-day for Kusseil in ballast. The =chooner Kenilworth. Captain C -\ic- Donald, sailed this morning for Lyttelton, with a cargo 01 timber. &c. The barque Lorraine was hauled round from the first to the second western tee this morning to make room for berthing the large steamers which are expected on Monday and xuesday 11 The ketch Wild Duck sailed from the Manu kau yesterday for Dunedin with a full cargo of timber, loaded at Messrs Guthrie and Larnach s The schooner Atalanta ia at present loading timber at Messr3 Guthrie aad Larnach s saw mills,, for Waitara. The barque Island City, Captain Wilhamg. having completed the discharge of her cargo at the Railway Wharf, cleared at the Customs to day for Newcastle, in ballast, and wm sail to morrow morning. Passengers—Mrs Williams and two children. . The Auckland Steam Shipping Company's a.s. Southern Cross, is to leave for Napier this even ing, with passengers and cargo. The following passengers in addition to those mentioned in last evening's issue, left for the South by the Wanaka yesterday:—Mesdame3 Cheshire and Marshall, Messrs Kissling, Taylor, Chadwick, White, Matson, Edwards, Gillard, "Vlas3ey. Howe, Tumbull, Anderson. Lyons, ■\lc\ddrey, Mata Karaka, Bawiri Stait, Dr Pollen, Master Pbillip3. and 10 steerage. The schooner Eliza Mary is expected in the Manukau from Dunedin, with a full cargo or Southern produce. She is to load with timber at Messrs Guthriejuid Larnach's Manukau mills, for Dunedin. The barque Appelles cleared out at the Customs to day for Newcastle, in ballast. She will sail to-morrow afternoon. The schooner Onward arrived from Kussell to-day with a cargo of 52 tons coaL

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Taukanga, this day. The 5.3. "Wanaka arrived from Auckland thi3 mornine. ■ . , Gisborxe. this day. The Auckiand Steam Shipping Company^ s.s. Go-ahead left for Auckland early this morning. Russell, this day. The s.s. Icna left for Auckland at one o'clock this afternoo "

AUCKLAND CATTLE MARKET.

iTB ALFRBD BUCKXAJTD'S WEEKLY REPORT. At the Havmarket on Friday, 22nd met., hides were in less'than average number, but at last week's values. 3d and 3Jd the lb. Lambs' wool, in full supijiv, brought from 81d to 9id the lb.; lambskins.' 2~3 and 2i 4d; sheepskins, Is 9d to 3s each. Fodder was in less quantity than usual, and in steady demand at 3s 6d to 4s 6d the cwt. Ryegrass seed, 63 per busheL The young medium draught horses advertised were in request, and realised from £20 to £26 each. •Riding horse 3, from £6to £1410s. At Remuera 02 Tlmrsdav, dairy cattle were fairly repre sented and in moderate inquiry, thsy brought from £3 10s to £10 10s each: store cattle were more plentiful than usual, with a-steady demand at fully late values; fat cattle in less than average number, 107 head yarded, prices, from 24s to 273 the lOOlbs,. last week's prices barely sustained; store sheep and lambs in better inquiry: fat sheep in less than usual number, but with no improvement in value, from 2}d to 2?d the lb.; pigs, plentiful and at lower values. Averages obtained were: 39 head mixed sexes, Hugh Knox, £8 5s 6d: 11 steers, Elliott and Bayly, £3173 ; 8 cow 3, A. Kay, £6 6s ;16 steers, C. J. Storey. £9 Is 6d-

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Undrr.— For Thames, this day, at 5.30 p.m.; and to morrow, at 11 a.m. For Kapler, per Southern Cross, this day, at For Waiwera, Mahurangi, Matakana. "Waipu, Mangawai, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Anne Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Whitiangi, Tanracga, and Opotiki, per Rowena, to-morrow, at 9 a.m. For Levuka and Samoa, per Mazeppa, to morrow, at 3 p.m. For Russell and Kawakawa, per Hawea, on Monday next, at 2 o.m. For Kapier, per Pretty Jane, on Monday next, at 4 p.m. ___ . T For Russell, Wangaroa.and Mongonui, per lona, on Monday next, at 4 p.m. Per s.s. Taiaroa, on Tuesday, March o, as follow: — _ For India, China, Mediterranean Ports, ana Continent of Europe, at 5 a.m. For Tarauaki, Southern Provinces. Aus tralian Colonies,' United Kingdom, I via Suez and Southampton and via Br n >isi, at 5 a.m. For money orders and registered letters, the previous evening at 4 o'clock. For Australian Colonies per Rotorua, on Tuesday, sth March, at 1 p.m. Per s.s. Zealandia, on Tuesday, sth March, as follows:— ._,.».*, * For Sandwich I*land3, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and i oreign West Indies, at 3 p.m. . For United Kingdom and Continent d Europe at 3 p.m. " For money orders, registered letters ana newspapers,"at 1.30. Late letters bearing an ext^-a fee of. sixpence in addition to the post age will be received by the Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

DEATH.

KINDER.—On the Ist March, at Pjrnell, Mrs. Kinder, aged 82 years. , The funeral will take place at St. Joans College, to-morrow (Saturday), at 4 p.m. PAUL.—On the 27th February, after a long and painful illness, Matilda, sixth and youngest daughter of Mr. James Haul, College Road, in her 19th year. Deeply regretted by all who * The funeral will leave her parents' residence on Sunday. 3rd instant, at 4 p.m. Friends please accept this intimation. SCHALES.—On the 28th February, at Newmar ket, Caroline, the beloved wife of John Schales, of Mangarai, aged 53 years. The funeral will leave her daughters resi dence, Newmarket, on Sunday. 3rd instant, at 3 p.m. Friends are respectfully invited.

NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS

" Ignoramus."—l. The Right Hon. Ben jamin Disraeli, Earl Beacousneld. 2 Conservative. 3. The word implies a general opposition to sweeping changes— a disposition to preserve things as they are. The term Liberal, as used in con tradistinction, represents a constantly active desire for reform. The two parties furnish an admirable division, supplying the nation with that active impulse towards constitutional improve ment necessary to keep pace with the age, under restraints that prevent it from running headloag .into revolution and riot The Conservative revival of 1874 no doubt in a great measure expressed the desire of the nation for rest after the reforms of the preceding Liberal Admin istration. " SWEEP" (Hamilton.)— Anyone is liable to prosecution for holding a sweep, the pen alty being £50. If held in a public-house the maximum penalty is greater.

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

FRIDAY. MARCH 1. 1378.

•it wicae tait nee&tnstsoma* tie fcttae Is the distance.

Thb passing of the Colonial Marriages Bill bythe British House of Commons by a 182 to 161, announced in a cable dispatch to-day, is an event of considerable importance. The object of the measure is to validate marriages contracted out of the United Kingdom between widowers and the sisters of their deceased wives, so astolegitimatiseinGreat Britain the issue born of such marriages, and to render them capable of legally inheriting property. For some time past marriage with a deceased wife's sister has been valid in America an ' some parts of Europe, aud in the colonies of South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, Queens land, Western Australia, New South Wales, Canada, and the Cape of Good Hope. Eepeated attempts have been made to extend the same law to this colony, where the lower branch of the Legislature has uniformly supported the measure, and the Legislative Council an often re jected it. Mr Steward, when t member of the House of Representatives, made many persistent attempts to pass the Deceased Wife's Sister's Marriage Bill, but was always foiled by the obstinate prejudice which existed against it in the Upper House. During last session, Mr Hodgkin son, member for Riverton, on the 12th September carried the second reading of the Bill on a division- by 41 votes to 23, but on the 27th of the same month it was again shelved on the second reading by IS to 7, in the Legislative Council. The history of the Opposition to the Bill in New Zealand has been very nearly analagous to that which has been ex perienced in the mother country. There, as here, the objections have been almost purely of a sentimental and emotional character; and even when the very ill grounded religious antipathies to the measure were overcome, the powerful in fluence of great families and wealthy property - owners was always thrown into the adverse scale. In Eng land marriage with a deceased wife's sister was occasionally validated in the interests of great families, up to 1535, but in that year an Act was passed which declared all such alliances contracted sub sequently to be absolutely null and void. The prohibition, however, was evaded in innumerable instances, where the parties possessed the means of going over to Denmark or America, or making a voyage to Australia; though, of course, the children resulting from such marriage were disinherited by English law. The scandal, however, became so great that the prohibition was generally denounced as oper ating only against the poor. Between 1549 and 1863 petitions containing upwards of 2,000,000 signatures were piesentedto the British House of Commons, praying Parlia ment to pass an Act validating marriage with a deceased wife's sister; and in 1575 26 spiritual lords, 12 judges, and a large number of eminent peers, gave in their adhesion to the proposed innovation. Among the eminent men who advocated this change were Archbishop Musgrave, of York ; Bishop Sewell; Bishop Tnirlwall; Bishop Kay, of Lincoln; Bishop Cople stone, of Landaff; Bishop Auckland, of Bath and Wells ; Bishop Bickersteth ; the Bishop of Limerick ; Bishop Villiers, of Durham ; the Bishop of Cork, the Bishop of Down and Connor, the present Archbishop of Canter bury, Cardinal Wiseman, John Wesley, Mr Gladstone, Earl Russell, Mr Bright. Even the late Pope Pius IX frequently granted dispensations permitting such marriages to be contracted, and validating —co for as his jurisdiction extended— the rights of succession and inheritance of the children born of such alliances. The pressure of public opinion in England became so powerful that from 1869 to 1574 there was* a majority in the House of Commons in favour of the passing of a Bill to legalise such marriages contracted in British colonies, and in 1875 a Bill was introduced which was rejected on a motion for a second reading by major ity of 29. Altogether the measure has been five times rejected by the House of Com mons. Looking, however, at the strong prejudice Which exists in the House of Lords against these marriages, there is a strong probability that it will be rejected by that branch of the Legislature. But whatever may be the fate of the measure at this juncture, the period cannot be vefy remote when it will become law, and an act of common justice will be done to the many families who now suffer from

the anomalous state of English law. Their claim is grounded oa the fact that the Crown, has already committed itself to the principle of marriage with a deceased wife's sister by assenting to the Acts passed in tha colonies.

" Ajiother Resident" in Pompalier-street ■writes expressing a hope that the reformation which the last letter has caused in the Pompalier-street pig-sty will be extended to the - rnnck under the adjoining shed and closet, when the neighbours and passers-by will rest in happiness. The officers and members of the Star of Newton Lodge, 1.0. G.T., mustered in full force on Wednesday night at the lodge-room (Newton Hall), and proceeded to visit the Excelsior Lodge, Franklyn-road, where they were received with the usual my3tcries of the order. Addresses and a musical enter tainment of a superior class were given. After a very enjoyable evening, the Excelsior Lodge promised to return the visit of the Star of Newton Lodge at an early date. A cricket match is to be played in the Domain at two o'clock to-morrow-afternoon between the Newmarket and Victoria Clubs. The following are the players selected to do battle for the Victorias: —Messrs H. and G. Cooke, Tabot, J. and H. Hutson, Moginie, Fairs, Done, Watts, and Crom ! well.

Considerable discussion took place at the City Council yesterday respecting the raising of a further portion of the Water works Loan. The Mayor reported that the banks had made offers for the loan of £25,000, and the Secretary of the Building Society, Mr Batger, desired to obtain some of the "debentures, and perhaps would take the whole of them. Mr Batger was not prepared to make his offar that day, and perhaps it would not be fair to mention the offers of the banks until the offer of Mr Batger was received. Councillor Cosgrave considered it would be a mistake to go into the market at present, as the city debentures would be of enhanced value aiter the passing of a Consolidation Bill. After some further discussion, the Mayor gave notice of motion for next meeting, " That the Town Clerk prepare for issue £5.000 worth of six per cent debentures, to be issued at not lessthau par.:'

Another of those well-conducted quadrille parties, under the auspices of the share holders of the Hibernian Band, was held last evening in the Cook-street Hall; the music by the Hibernian Band, under the direction of Mr Louergan. About 40 couples joined the dances, and shared in the active amusements of the evening. Mr Paterson acted as master of the ceremonies in a highly creditable manner. Ihe whole affair was interesting throughout, and cheerfulness and good humour sat upon every countenance. At the close of the programme the committee decided upon having a ball on St. Patrick's night. The following are the railway traffic re turns ior the four weeks ending the 12th January last :—For the Kaipara section, total revenue, £331 ; corresponding month last year, £296. Auckland section, £3,423 ; corresponding month of previous year, £2,155. Total revenue for the financial year, £17,041; expenditure, £12,779. The Premier and party left Hokitika yes terday for Martin's Bay and the Bluff.

The regular monthly meeting of the Loyal Enniskiilen Lodge of Orangemen will be held this evening in the Newton Protestant Hall, at the usual hour, for the transaction of ordinary Lodge business.

The new library of St. Matthew's Sunday-school will be opened this evening. One hundred volumes of moral and religious literature has been added to the stock of books. Mr H. J. Sanders has undertaken the duties of librarian.

The police hand-cart broke completely down yesterday, after a service under Go vernment of twenty years. The old cart had borne many a midnight burden upon its once sturdy back ; had met with many misfortunes in various parts of its body ; and had been repaired until it was past repairing ; and, like many an old servant who had done good service by flood and field, was cast aside. The last "unfortunate" who was borne by it to the lodging on the "cold, cold ground," was Alice H., the celebrated window-smasher (now in Mount Eden), who kicked so unmercifuliy that the tire 3 flew off the wheels, and the axle broke. Sergeant M. exclaimed, "It's all up with the old cart now." The old cart cau tell no tales, or it could unfold many a tale to harrow up the soul," etc., etc., in relation to broken lives, broken heads, and broken limbs. It is expected tliat the diunkards' friend will soon find a wooden successor, whilst the ashes of the old cait, like those of Wickliife, will be scattered to the four winds of heaven. We give three verses from a twenty-two versed lamentation, by an official, after the manner of Thomas Gray :—

Companion of misfortune's prostrate heirs, Thy wheels, so active once, have fallen apart; Thy back no more its midnight burden bears, Drawn by official hands. Farewell, old cart. How many men from o'er tho surging main. With vision bright and fondly hoping heart, How many females, unadorned and plain. Have groaned upon thee, broken-down old cart? And now thou'rt destined for tho gaard-room

are. To boil a steak to solace hunger's smart: Theu sink in ashy palenes3 und expire, And pass forever from our gaze, old cart,

Messrs T. Morrin and C. B. Stone have succeeded Messrs C. J. and G. M. Clark as directors of the Moanatairi.

Mr J. A. White has become a director of the Alburnia G.M.Co., vice Mr C. J. Stone.

What has the unfortunate Sea Serpent done that his character should be subjected to so much obliquy. Notwithstanding the fact that he continues to appear at irregular intervals in various parts of the world in order to vindicate his character, a few obstinate sceptics -persist in denying his existence. Here is a specimen of modern unbelief sent by a correspondent:—"The way in which the mysterious phenemonon of a Great Sea Monster is accounted for by a visitor to the North Shore is in this wise. The watermen's steps broke adrift from the wharf there the other night, and were carried by the current of wind and tide in the direction of Brown's Island, where seen by the Durham people, who, awaking from the dosy influence of somnolence produced by the gently undulating motion of the vessel, mistook this harmless object for a huge monster of the deep." There is war between the city fathers and the postal authorities of Auckland, and the facts go to shew that the latter are the wrongdoers. It appeared from a statement made by the Town Clerk at the Council meeting yesterday that the postal authori ties had refused to pay for water on the ground that the metre was not correct. The water had therefore been cut off, but he postal authorities, contrary to the city by-laws, had put a padlock on the metre. Several Councillors commented in strong terms on the conduct of the Government authorities in setting such a bad example. Councillor Buchanan suggested that a committee should be appointed to wait on the postal authorities with reference to the matter. .Councillor Fleming however thought that no Committee should be sent, but the Govern ment should be treated in the same way as an ordinary ratepayer. Councillor Goldie supported Councillor Buchanan. The Mayor remarked that it was extra ordinary how some members of Council changed front. When he (the Mayor) pro posed the very course now advocated by Councillor Buchanan, Councillor Goldie had opposed it. Councillor Morton thought the Post-master had treated the Council very discourteously. He had also behaved very childishly in affixing ghis own padlock to the metre. He would move that the Town Clerk be instructed to carry out the city by-laws, even to the extent of sueing, if necessary. Tne morion was seconded and agreed to. It certainly does appear to us that the Postal authorities have taken up a position which is not only illegal, but in singularly bad taste. The probability is, however, that they will be soon brought to their senses, as the stoppage of the water supply has caused all the drains and water closets to be choked up.

Mr Richard Carter, formerly a set Newmarket, and for many years a Wes ley an local preacher, died at Hikurangi lately. _ _ T ~ ~ Tlie efforts which "Te Wananga — the Maori newspaper is making to raise the intellectual standard of the Maoris, are really wonderful. In a late issue that journal has an article describing "Te Terepono, which, being rendered into the venacular, means >: the telephone."

Another organ recital is coming oil on Monday evening next at 8 o'clock, m the Pitt-street Wesleyan chapel. Mr Harcourt Lee has handsomely offered his services on the occasion. There will be a charge of one shilling for admission. To the Editor : Sir,—l noticed in your STAR of last evening that a man was illtreatiug two horses. These things are only too common ; I often see drivers jerking the poor horses' mouths while try ing to back them through clay with a heavy load on. If these horses were treated with kindness and the whip spared, they would work much* better. 1 think you will agree with me, sir, when I say the police ought to look after the people when such cruelties are inflicted on these poor dumb animals. I am, &c, Kindness. Several complaints have been made to "us by-persons connected with shipping in the harbour, regarding the necessity existing for the erecion of a vane on the wharf. At pre sent they have no means of knowing the exact point of the compass from which the wind blows, and it is therefore suggested that the large lamp at the end of the wharf should be surmounted with an iron rod and vane, which would only cost a few shillings. The improvement would be a great boon to shipping officers and others, and might easily be carried out by the Harbour Board.

An influential deputation of residents in the Kemuera district will wait upon the hon. the Colonial Secretary to-morrow, to re quest that the closing* of the Newmarket Slaughterhouse may not be delayed. A general meeting of the shareholders of the"" Conquering Hero" Goldmining Com ?any, was held yesterday afternoon,^ in Mr 'othill's office, Joseph Howard Esq., in the chair. The Directors' and Managers reports and the balance sheet were read and adopted, and it was resolved that Mr Day's report should be printed for circula tion among the shareholders. The return iugdirectorswere re-elected, and Mr Thomas L. White re-appointed auditor. Votes o thanks were accorded to the chairman and directors, and the meeting dissolved.

The City Council has agreed to supply the AVhau Lunatic Asylum ■with au un limited quantity of water at £100 a year. Stand pipes are being erected round the building, and other precautions takeu for the prevention of fires. " A -ister" writes thanking the members of the Newton Lodge of Good Templars for their kiudlj' visit to the Excelsior Lodge, and remarks on the benefit of these friendly interchanges. A cricket match in the Domain on Satur day last, between the Parnell Grammar School and Newmarket Clubs, was won by the former with 51 runs to spare. A cricket match on Saturday last between tqe Pokeno and 'i'uakau Clubs was won by the latter with 25 runs to spare.

A good story is narrated in the " Gentle man's Magazine." An Englishman staying at an hotel at Normanby, lost his purse. He complained to the landlord. He was sure that all his people were paragons of honesty, but there were two other Englishmen stopping at the hotel—pro bably no better than they should be. Monsieur had better iuquire about them. Monsieur did so, and found that the one was Dean Stanley, and the other Alfred Tennyson.

Persons passing up and down Queen street have probably noticed the excellen" ■workmanship visible in specimens of the carving ann gliding which are exhibited in the window of Mr Courcy's shop, next Redfcn, the photographer's.

At the meeting of the City Council yes terday Mr Dempsey was authorised to com plete the, fence in Hobson-street as far as Wvndham-street.

To the Editor : Sir, —In reading your paper last night I was pleased to see you contradict a report that was issued in the " Herald " of the 2Sth inst. I hope that it is not that deil Luckie that wants a bone to pick from the Governor's table, as he is residing amongst us at present. I hope he has not smuggled it in the paper without the consent of the proprietors. If he has done so would you be so kiud as to send the doctor over to see his mouth and look at his tongue, a strong dose of medicine might raise the grey bile ofF his stomach. It was only last March that he wrote against Sir George Grey, and was reprimanded by the proprietors of the "Herald."—Yours &c, A.-Black.

A cricket match between the employe's of Messrs "W. McArthur and Co. and Messrs A. Clark and Son will be held in the Domain to-morrow, the 2nd instant; play to commence at 1.30 p.m. sharp. A cricket match will be played in the Domain to-morrow between the members of the Carlton C.C. and the Choral Hall C.C.; play to commence at 1.30 p.m. sharp. Carlton team : T. Wayte, J. Chambers, Batger, Berry, Herron, Angus, Hunter, Loyd, Morgan, Tait, Holdship (2).

A cricket match will be played on the Domain ground to-morrow between the Epsom and Remuera Clubs; play to commence at 2 o'clock sharp. The naraes will be selected from the following : — Epsom :' E. Hesketh (Captain), J. M. Baird, Wilmott, Nicholls, R. Baird, C. Heskech, A. Heather, K. Browning, A. Aitkin, A. Mean, H. Haase, H. Hayr. Remuera : W. F. Bucklaud (Captain), H. E. Cotton, H. A. Watt, D. Tonks, S. Jackson, J. N olan, W. Tonks, Scarborough, A. Tonks, Cheeseman, T. Whewell.

To the Editor : Sir,—Where is Mr All right ? I want to tell him >vhat a tear fully bad state Symonds-street is in, and to ask him to give orders for its repair. It is a disgrace to the authorities, and a constant source of danger to the public. It looks as though a thousand Chinamen had been prospecting, and that all on one side ; or as though it were the course of a line of riflepits, or something like that. If you see him, tell him how it looks. —Yours &&, E.W.

The Hon. Dr Pollen and the Hon. F. Whitaker, proceeded Southwards by the Wanaka, to attend the George Jones libel case.

The Right Reverend jiD. Moiran, Romau Catholic Bishop of Duuedin, accompanied by the Right Reverend Dr. Quinn, Bishop of Brisbane, on their visit to St.. Mary's boarding and select school received an address of welcome, and the pupils after wards gave several musical selections, one by a young lady, who exhibited consider able taste and skill; and a chorus was rendered by seven children of very tende years, one of them acting as accompanist This was followed by 2. dialogue entertain ment, which displayed well-trained powers of memory, and was very creditably given. Yesterday Bishop Morau visited the Roman Catholic schools at Newton, St. Peter's, St. Patrick's, the Infant School, St. Joseph's, and St. Francis de Sales sele c school, where addresses were read to his Lordship, and musical selections, dialogues, and recitations were very creditably given by the pupils. The Bishop thanked the teachers ana scholars, and complimented them upon their evidences of efficiency and progress.

DUNEDIN RACES.

To-Day's Baces

Dunedin Jockey Club Handicap. Templeton ... ... 1 Longlands ... ... ... ... ... 2 Ariel 3 Time, 3miu. I7secs. The Derby. Trump Card walked over. Hurdle Race. Eclipse ... ... : 1 SirTatton 2 Kiidare ... ... 3

CABLEGRAMS.

Latest War NeT?s.

To-day's Dispatches

[REUTERS SPECIAL CABLEGRAMS.]

Lord Magdala Commandes-is- Cfcief.

Colonial Marriages' Bill Passed

LONDON

February 2S

Lord Napier of Magdala has teen re-appointed Commander-in-Chief, and General Sir Garnet Wolesley has been appointed Chief of the Staff, in the event of war.

The House of Commons passed the Colonial Marriages Validation Bill by 1 82 against 161. The Government opposed the pas sage of Bill.

(Reutee's Special Telegrams)

RUSSIA STILL DEMANDS TURKISH

FLEET.

SUSPICION AND ALARM IN

EUROPE.

RUSSIAN TROOPS FOR AUSTRIA.

LONDON, February 26,

The treaty of peace is still unsigned. Russia is persistent in her demands for the surrender of the Turkish fleet, and.the occupation of Constantinople, but the occu pation is delayed. The Foreign Minister, replying to a question in Parliament, said he was un able to give information as to .Russia s reasons for keeping the full terms of peace

secret. The " Standard" has a telegram which, declares that eight additional batteries of artillery had arrived at St. Stephanus, and that General Gourko was approaching with 30;0C0 troops. The secret negotiations excite suspicion and alarm throughout Europe. The severity of the terms demandep by Russia is everywhere condemned, and con sidered provocative of a war. which will involve Britain and Austria.

The Prince of Roumania threatens to abdicate, and the Ministry to resign, rather than cede Bessarabia to Russia. Eight thousand Russian troops passed Gassy for the Transyvlanian frontier. The ordinary railway traffic has been suspended on the Roumanian railway. The " Globe" states that in the event of an expeditionary force being landed in Turkey, Lord Napier.of Jj.agdala,will be in command, and Sir Garnet Wolseley Chief of his staff.

INCREASE OF LUNACY.

[SPECIAL TO PRESS AGEXCY.]

MELBOURNE, February 2S

The report of the Inspector of the Insane shows a large increase of lunacy during the last five years. Sailed : S.s Zealandia.

THE VICTORIAN EMBROGLIO,

MELBOURNE, February 2S.

The Government have received a com munication from the Imperial authorities, who decline to interfere. The Legislature must fight it 3 own battles. The home authorities leave it to the Governor's discre tion to enforce the resolutions' of the Assembly in reference to the payments of moneya voted by thatfbody.

THE SLAUGHTERHOUSE QUES TION.

(To the Editor of the Star.)

SIR, —The action of a section of the butchers in connection with the Slaughterhouse Question, seems to me to be very inconsis tent. If I have been correctly iufomied,the slaughterhouse at the Western springs was erected on receipt of a written request from some 25 to 30 butchers, who pledged them selves that if equal accomodation at the same rate of charges as they were then pay ing at Newmarket could be secured, they would use the Western Springs Abattoirs. For fear that my information should not be correct, I wouldsuggest sir, that you obtain from the Corporation a copy of the docn mentand publish it. Further, I believe the design and site accepted for the beilding was accepted at the reauest of the butchers theaiselvesjbackedby the opiuionJotMr All ■wright, the ProvincialEngiueer. I think, sir, if the true reason.were given, it would be found that it is not the building that is unsuitable. As a proof of this I have been informed that the gentleman who introduced the deputation—or one of his brothers.for I see the Wood family were veryconspicuous on the occasion—made ;a suggestion a few days ago to the Council to remove the build ing from the Western Springs to some place in the vicinity of Newmarket, giving the Council to understand that good pecuniary results would follow. I rather think, sir, that Mr Walker gave the key note to the whole matter, wheuhesaid he would sooner make any sacrifice than go where the Inspec tor had anything to do with the place. It would appear that this matter of inspection has a great deal to do with the present oppo sition,-and if so, the sooner the Corporation take steps to get the necessary powers to have all meat consumed in the city killed under the inspection of an officer appointed by, and responsible to themselves, the better will it be for the public weal.--Yours, etc., Pro Bono Publico.

AUCKLAND STOCK AND MINING ASSOCIATION.

To-day's quotations :— National Bank—Buyers, 72s 6cL Colonial Bank—Buyers, 50s- Union Insurance^—Buyers, 14s 3d. New Zealand Loan Co.—Buyers, 355. Guthrie & Larnach Co.—Bayers, 355. Auckland Timber Co.—Buyers, 503. Union Sash and Door Co.—£s os (50s paid up) Moanatairi—Sellers, 70s. Tookey Tribute—sa; Sellers, ss. Waitekauri—Sellers. 3s. Albumia—7o?, 71s; Sellers. 70s. Prince Imperial—tellers, 20s. Kuranni Hill—Sellers, lls. Piako—Sellers, Is 6d. Thames—Sellers, 355. Cure—Buyers, 53 3d. Bismarck—Sellers, Ss 6d. JOSEPH NEWMAN, Chairman.

SUNDAY-SCHOOL CONFERENCE AT BISHOP'S COURT.

About one hundred and fifty male and female teachers connected with the Church of England Sunday-schools met, by invitation, at Bishop's Court yesterday afternoon. An excellent tea was provided by Mrs Cowie on the lawn, alter which the ladies and gentlemen walked in the Bishop's garden, io enjoy the truits and flowers. At s,x o'clock the guests assembled in»-the library for the more important business of the conference, in relation to the conduct of Sunday hchools. His J-ordship occupied the chair, and opened with prayer and an excellent address on bunday-scnooi teaching, full of important hints to young people, based upon hi 3 own experience. Rev. C. M. Nelson, of St. Paul's followed w rith a paper, carefully written, on the " Best means of rendennj* Sunday-schools efficient," which contained many valuable remarks and sug gestions. Mr Nelson's paper met with general approval, and drew forth other obsorvations from Mr Hammond, of St Sepulchre's, Mr G. P. Pierce, Mr Brown, of the North Shore, Mr Davis, of St. Matthew's; a gentleman from Ail Samts, whose name we could not catch, aad AI Birail, of St. Paul's. Rev. Messrs Dudlcv Burrows, and Bate 3 also took part in the conference.

PTYre-watek inclosed in bottles which for merly held the most popular and ifereeable medicinal beverage of the century, Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps is being sold by unscrupulous traders upon the public health. These fiery poisons often bear mutation labels to render the deception more complete. Beware of them. Demand and re osive none but the genuine.

CLIFFORD'S GRAND EXHIBITION.

Mr Clifford announces in another column - that he has made preparations for givinwT series of grand scenic illustrations of archi 1 tecture and scenery, in the Albert HalL commencing on Monday evening next with views of Russia and Turkey, including the cities of Constantinople, St. Petenf burgh, Moscow, etc., on to the city of } Koine. Scenes of the Bosphorus are of the most charming character, lined on either side with villages, castles, and forte, and which have a special public interest at the present time in consequence of the disas trous war which for some months has been raging between the two nations. These views will be rendered all the more inter esting by the lucid explanations of the * exhibitor. The capital of the Sultan's dominions is, as readers know, of very ancient date, and full of historic associa tions ; formed as it was injthe middle of the seventh century, before the dawn of the Christian Era. The splendid city of Rome forms another of the finest pictures in Mr Clifford's new series, with a magnificent view of the classical Liber washing itg sacred feet, stretching onward through srun-glinted plains between the waters of the Mediterranean and the Appening. ranges shewing ; also St. Peters, the finest ecclesiastical structure in the world. Another section of the entertainment -will embrace the Colony of New Zealand, and will exhibit striking pictures of Auck land, Christchurch, Dunedin, and other towns of interest. The New Zealand views have been specially prepared for exhibition in England, with the idea of giving Britain's sous at home a knowledge of cLe physical and progressive character of these islands by representations of Jfew Zealand cities,. to vhs, mountains, and landscapes. views of the land of corn and pyramids, will also be

given, and an occasional portrait of some eminent personage, such as the late Pope Pius IX, and the present Emporor of Russia; concluding with natural phenomena and the optical delusion of the danchn» skeleton. . These entertainments ar

calculated to amuse and instruct, and are deserving of liberal patronage.

CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS.

(To the Editor of the EvtXEfG Stab.) - Sir, —In yours of February 27th you stated that a letter was r.*a<l from G. Black, stafc- I ing that it was " impossible" to have earth-r ! closets on his premises. With such a pro ! nounced opinion as that of Mr G. Black's- I ! on the difficulty of managing earth-closets; ' the Council will, as a matter of course, pro— ceed to inforce the watei -closet system -with a high hand regardless of its future results,, its shameful and inequitable bearing on ! those compelled to use earth-closets (mor& correctly called the City" By-law abortion and abomination) ; earth-closets without- | earth being used ; earth-closets "with a system being established for its proper re moval, it is impossible to devise a more- j efficient system to bring the "True earth closet system into disrepute than the pie- i sent city arrangements. Its cost, thspgh I enormous, is perhaps the least objectionable part of it. Of course, tne future of the. Harbour is little, the health of the-whole place still less, when compared with Mr G. Black's impossibility.—Yours, &c, J. B^ ~ Strange.

Accidents on Waikato Railway.

[BY TELEGRAPH.]

(From our ottn" Correspoxbext.) HAMILTON, this day. Ax ACCIDENT occurred yesterday on tie railway line near Hamilton. A tram of •waggons were being "breaked" down an incline to the gravel pits, when they escaped from the control of the breaksman, and " took charge," the result being that ten waggons were more or less injured. £200 or £300 will probably coyer ifce damages. Another accident occurred to the pas senger train due here at 7.30. Great anxiety was expressed when 9 o'clock came and no tidings of the train; but shortly after the passengers came walking in, and informed us that the engine broke down | about 4 miles from Hamilton. The station- : master, having been informed of the acci dent, got up steam in Mr Topham's engine^ ■•■: proceeded down the line, and brought on the traiu, arriving .about ten o'clock.

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(Before R. C. Barstow, Esq., R.M.) ECEBRIATED. A native, named Eoni, was chafed with 1 drunkenness, and fined 5s and costs; Mary 1 McKillaney was charged -with the third offence within two months, and ordered to . I paj' 20s and costs, and undergo five doys~ imprisonment, or failing to pay the fine seven days. crnr bates. George Lendrum was summoned for a; | rate of £4 15s, doe to the City Council. Mr Harrop, collector, proved that the demand had been made, but defendant had not uaid. Mr J. B. Russell appeared for the Conn|- ■ cii, and stated the circumstances. .j Judgment for plaintiff for the nil ■ amount, costs ISs 6d.

MR EOBIXSOX IX TOTTS. George Robinson, a fanner, "was charged with leoviug his cart unattended, and the wheel unchained, in Customhouse-street. Mr Robinson pleaded guilty, and was snbjectsd to a fine of 2s 6d, costs 5s 6d 3HE STORY OF A GOOSE. . BeDJamin Jones, a young man, appeared w answer to a charge of attacking Constawe m Abrams, at Newton, on the 2nd inst, *ntl I destroying his uniform, value £3 10s, and G*®* stable Jonas Abrams was charged "with assault ing Mrs Sai-ah Jones, at Mount Eden, on «c same day. _ . ■ Mr Tyer, on behalf of defendant in the fllsfc case, pleaded not jcuilty. , Kub-Inspeetor Pardy opened the case, ana shewed that the disturbance was all about a ■ Mr Tyler contended that Constable Abrams had exceeded his duty in going on to *ne ; premises acd provoking the assault. He con tended that a constable had no right to enter *i m persons premises only to arrest a prisoner or to . : search for stolen property, and then he muss- - have a search warrant. " - . :, ■ His Worship said he could not coißeraß ?; altogether with Mr Tyler. A constable might enter a person premises for other reasons. Mr Tyler contended that the constable was' not in the execution of his duly, but was oiuy '; on defendant's premises by oermissioaQjCd6?™^ Hi 3 Worship after some consideration- dis missed the case, on the present infonnatipD, ana ~.;. the information was amended, excluding tno < words " while in the execution of his duty, ana defendant was charged with a common assault, g Jonas Abrams, constable, of Newton, deposaa that on ihe — of the Ist month, Mr Thomas, ■ Taylor complained to him that he had lost some. 1. geese. He made a search for them in Eden Ten-ace, saw a flock of geese in the street, ana ascertained that they belonged to Mr Jones- Mr Taylor indentified two of the geese as to* "• property. They want to Mr Jones,' and enquirea i about the ownership of the geese, saying,™ beiieved two of them were his property. M* Jones said that could not be, they ail belong*" j to him. At his request, they were driven vow Mr Jones' yard. Mr Taylor examined too ; geese, and was satisfied that the two werejaj m property ; warm words ensued. He ODjectee, & to interfere, although Mr Taylor and defendant . desired him to go in to Jones' yard- Taylor saia there was a private mark on the web of tnefee* :j of his jreese, which he pointed out. Defendant ./.■> immediately became very much eicited : ana g pushed witness on the shoulder; he caubonea defend ant. Mr Jones then put up his hanQijKX Mr Tay:or begged him to be cool and not striKO / the constable. Instead of taking the a» ■; Jones aimed a blow at him. and struck nun ;i violently under the ear. He (Jones) .""JJOI grasped him round the body, and they gu,95 1 the ground together. Defendant then kicKflci. him, bit him on the wrist, and in the strugg» || tore his uniform to pieces; the damage amounted to about £i. Mrs Jones then rusnea s out and laid hands on him. He begged her w -' go away. He denied the charge of taking_oer by the arms and throwing her on the grouna.s Cro s-exa mined by Mr Tyler. -. , @Thomas Taylor, bootmaker, Eden Terraces deposed that on Thursday, the 21st instanti ne spoke to Constable Abrams about two fp&% s that had been stolen from his flock. Hepointea i them cut totheco^stableamongtheflockownea- - by >'r Jones, as they were passing alo'?S>*s"> road. He knew his geeso bra mark la the woo ; f their feet, which he made byihis punch. u» shewed Mr Jones the punch mark, when m appeared to be vexed, ani said "*oa, nS}{a marked my geese." The remainder ot «"»■ witness's evidence was corroborative oi tnat «<• , the preoeding witness.

EYENIJSTG STAR FRIDAY, MARCH 1878.



TUST OPENED. 1 CASE GENTLEMEN'S REGATTA SHIRTS Of a Superior Quality of Fkench Cambric, and the most Fashionable Patterns. « W. EATTRAY, CLOTHIER & MEN'S MERCER, \TSW ZEALAND TTOUSK, 65, QUSEN-STREET. Avoklasd. mWENTYg PER CENT. DISCOUNT FOR A SHORT TIME ONLY ! FANCY DRESS MATERIALS, FURNISHING GOODS, BLACK SILKS, BLANKETS, CALICOES. HOSIERY, £S HABERDASHERY, LADIES' UNDERCLOTHING, CARPETS AND MATTING. CLOTHING OF ALL KINDS, FOR BOYS' AND MEN'S WEAR, HATS, CAPS, SHIRTS, &c. , AND EVERY DESCRIPTION of GENERAL DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, AT SI, TWENTY PER CENT, REDUCTION. FOUR -SHILLINGS IN THE POUND ' ALLOWED UPON ALL CASH PURCHASES. ods En-tered will be Charged Regulab Prices. pUSHBUOOK AND j^RIDGMAN, DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, &0., UPPER QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND, (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel). —~k_i ci OR W AITARA. ■j^SS^^ HAUBAKI Will leave | Ci fLi ifct foit'ao Waitara TO MORROiV, at 4 p.m. ; Forfreight Agc ß t. I



CQTOTRY EDITIONS PUBLISHED at 12.30 P.M. (FOR WATKATO), AND AT 3.30 P.M. mHE TOWN EDITION of the STAE is Published at the Office at 5 o'clock. T& H. C O O X E 0 Have ox Sale ONE OF THE LARGEST STOCKS OF FURNITURE IN THE COLONY. Special Items:— DRAWING-ROOM SUITES WALNUT TABLES CARPE IS HEARTHRUGS LINOLEUM FLOORCLOTH IRON BEDSTEADS TOILETtj LASSES CANE-SEATED CHAIRS TOILET-WARE DRAWERS MARBLE-TOP WASH3TANDS MATTRESSES FEATHER BEDS. A Small Shipment of CRETONNES and CASH MERES, New Patterns. All Goods at Lowest Rates. delivered free. Liberal Discount to Cash Bttytrs. FurnitureShowvoms .... 67, QUEEN-STREET SUam Cabinet Factory VICTORIA-STRE&T mo, AGRICULTURISTS & OTHERS W. J. HURST S. CO. hare on sale the under mentioned Fertilizers, all of which have been proved to jroduce satisfactory results in this district. Experience teache3 that large ana proßtable returns can be relied on by a j udieiou? and liberal use of them. The flattering Testi monil3 from leading Fariner3 justify W. J. dura & Co. in strongly commending them to every Agriculturist:— MALDEN ISLAND GUANO PERUVIAN GUANO MEXICAN do. BELL:, aONEFLOUR 1 and Wnch BONEDUST BILLYARDS No. 1 do. NITRATE OF SODA SULPHATE OF AMMONIA MURIATE OF POTASH SUPER-PHOSPHATE OF LIME. SALT, SULPHATE OF LIME. In addition to the above, W. J. 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 atttected such favourable notice. Analysis, prices, and other particulars will be supplied on application at- the Stores. W. J. HURST & CO., 101. Queen-street. UPERIOR SAMPLES of Sydney and New Zealand Maize. Tartarian and Potato Oats, Table Potatoes, Flour, Oatmeal, Bran, Sharps, Barley, Jhaff, Oilcake Coal, &c, &c, always on hand. W. J. HURST & CO.. 101, QUEEN-STREET. AUCKLAND Clover seeds. (Jlover seeds. Just to Haxd, ex ' Apelles.' OUR FIR3T SHIPMENT NEW SEASON'S OLOYER SEEDS, CONSISTING OS- White Clover Timothy Red Clov6r Rape Cow Grass Trefoil Alsyke &c, &c, &c. Turnip AXD A Fine Collection of Farm a>*d Garden* Seed 3. ALSO, A Shipment of American Timothy. Samples of the above Seeds will be forwarded on application. Poverty Bay, Canterbury, and local Rye Grass, Cocksfoot, Ratstail, Poas Fescues, &c, &c, from carefully selected samples, at lowest mar ket rates. _, W. J. HURST & CO., 101. Queen-street. • t& CITY HALjL -** Jf^UP-NISHIiN G AsCADE. NEW GOODS JUST UNPACKED, AND QUITE NEW. CRETONNES, Lakge Lot New Coloue3 astd New Designs. /'New Brussels, from 4,9 r> A p>p>ttt<? J Xew Tapestry, from 21 1 New Kidderminster, from 3/2 ( New Hearthrugs, from 6/6 /'New Shape Walnut Suites j New Reps for do. Fob the I GreenandCrimsonSiikßep) DRAWING--; Black and Gold do. r aS ROOM. I Fawn and Gold do. j>~ I New Pattern Walnut Tables VNew Inlaid Flower Stands (12 feet wide, 3/ per yard FLOOR- I 3 „ 2/ CLOTHS. 1 Oil Canvas, /9 I Linoleum, all widths Handsome White Twist and Bullion Fringes, for Bed Hangings Handsome White & Fancy Belgian Damask, for do. Turkish Towels, very large size, 1/3 and 1/9 * Superior Fancy Oil Baizes, for tables Immense Variety in Ladies 1 Dres3 Buttons. Hollo-way, G-ariick & Granwsll, City Hall Arcade, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. CABINET FACTORY .. Losne-stkeet UNION INSURANCE COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND. APITAL £2,000,000. UCKLAND BRANCH: QUEEN-S T R E X T, Next the Colonial Bank. FIRE DEPARTMENT. Insnranc " granted on Dwelling-houaea, Stores. Shop 3, Buildings in which trade is carried on, Merchandise, and Goods of every description. MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers. Merchandise of all kinds, Spe-cie and Wool to United Kingdom, at "owbst Current Rates. R. H. STEVENSON Manager. T> OVAL INSURANCE gCOMPANY. Special Notice to Insubees. ' This Company, having intimated to the In surance Association their Withdrawal from Tariff Arrangements, is now prepared to grant Policies on all descriptions of Property at equitable rates. Concessions will be made on first-class build ings and approved risks, in Town and Suburbs, and for water supply and other protection, where made available. Special arrangements will be made with Mortgagees, Solicitors, House Agents, Con tractors, and other large insurers. The policy of the Company is promptness and liberality in the settlement of claims, and strictly honourable dealing in all its transaction a. The Security of Insurers is unsurpassed by that of any Company doing business in the Colony. GEO. 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-information being sent to the Office. T pOSGRAV.E & ri 0. "WTLL HOLD A GREAT CLEARING SALE OP * MEN'S AND BOYS' C^L 0 THING TO-MORROW. . " All Goods Reduced to Cost Price. Inspection Invited. LOST, on Tuesday, between Mount Eden and the Great South Road, a Letter addressed to Mrs. Joseph Foos. The tinier will oblige by returning same to Occidental Hotol. LOST, yesterday, a Silver Ear-ring.— Finder will be rewarded on returning same to *hiß office. LOST, on Sunday evening, in Ponsonby, a Gold Earring:.—Finder will receive 53. reward on returning same to this office.