SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

uti n vvA'nn? fThi3 Afternoon, 3.22 mull vvA!lC]l-- ITo . 1710rrow Moving, 3.45 3UN SlCT.—This Evening, 5.15 . . PfTN UTS!I;.— To-morrow Mornins-, 6.42 MOON'S AGB.~Now Moon, 3rd, 0.29 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

Elsinore, schooner, Dam, from Russell Oriffln, schooner, McUermott, from Russell lona, s.s., Farquhar, from Russell Wave of Life, scliooner, Sopwith, from Russell

DEPARTURES.

Bella Mary, barque. Fisher, for Hobart Town Onward, schooner, Pankow, for Russell Rowena. p.s., Sellars, for Tauranga Southern Cross, s.s.. Holmes, for Napier

IMPORTS.

Pei- briarantirie Ada O. Owen, from the South Sea Island :— 60 tons cobra, 2 tons pearl-shell, \ ton beche-de rnere, 21 tons vegitable ivory, 50 lbs. tortoise shell. Pp.r Tona, from Russell: 176 sacks gum, 16 cases fruit, 55 sacks oysters, 3 sacks fungus, and sundries. Per Speed well, from Newcastle: 451 tons coal, 300 felloes, 49 bags bones, 96 bags bonedust.

EXPORTS.

Per Southern Cross, for Napier : 52 bale 3 iron, 3 casks oil-cake, 55 packages, 10 hoses soap, 5 cases stout, and sundries. 2 kexs shot, 5' lbs powder.—E. Porter and Co. 37 packages.—Owen an,i Graham. 1 package leather.—lreland Brothers.

THE MAIL STEAMER.

Messrs Owen and Graham received a cable gram to-day, stating that the R.M.S. Australia left Sydney for Auckland yesterday. She is, therefore, due about Tuesday next.

Cleared Outwards.—Mana, cuttor, for Tairua, with 70 bags chaff, 20 bags flour 6 bags maize, 6 bags bran, and. sundries; Christina, schooner, for Russell, in ballaat; Fawn, cutter, for RuspcH, in ballast; Lizzie, cutter, for Whan gapoua, with a full cargo cf merchandise: Ruby, p.s. for Thames, in ballast; Firefly, schooner, for Wade, with bonedust and flour. Entered Inwards.—Wave of Life, schooner, from Russell, with 100 tons coal; Blsinore, schooner, from Russell, with 51 tons coal; Griffin, schooner, from Russell, with 80 tons coal; Lagoon, barge, from Omaha, with 16,000 feet timber and 12 tons firewood ; Firefly, schooner, from the Wade, with 600 shingles, and 6 passengers. Tha vessels at Sandwich when the Ada C. Owen left were: John S. Lane, Aoha (late Peer less) and Pacific. The Menschikoff left on the sth inst. for Fiji. The s.s. lona arrived in harbour this morning, from Russell, with a cargo of produce, &c, arid th c f ol! o wing passengers:—Mr and Mrs Wat kins, Mr and MrstHoney, Earl of Lewes and servant. Misses King, Hayes, and Adamson, Mrs Ken dall, Master Norris. Messrs Robinson, Chitfleld, Hicton, Logan, Ratcliffe, Prescott, Hicton. Wheatman. Robert Campbell, Stewart, and Captain Fisher. , The s.s. Rowena sailed last evening for Mer cury Bay and Tauranga with passengers and cargo. The barque Bella Mary, Captrin Fisher, sailed last nignt for Hobart Town. The brig Moa hauled away fiom the wharf this morning, and her berth was occupied by the barque Bengal. She is to have two bow-ports cut at once, and will be placed on the timber trade, having been purchased by Messrs, Guthrie & Larnach. The s.s. Rotoraa is expected to arrive from the South on Monday. The s.s. Wanaka will arrive in harbour from thfi South on Sunday night. The s.s. Taiaroa will arrive in the Manukau on Monday morning from the South. The brigantin« Ada C. Owen arrived from the South Sea Islands, after a five months cruise, yesterday. She sailed for Auckland on the 9fch March. After leaving, experienced nothing but a succession of calms and light airs from the S.E. On the 31st March, Roderick Stewart, boatswain, native of Prince Edward's Island, died at sea, from Island fever ; and on the 3rd April, J. J. Coe (late of the A.C.). a passenger, died f rem the same cause. Arrived in Havannah harbour on the 4th; left again on the 6th : dropped anchor in Noumea on the 9th ; sailed for Auckland on the 15tb instant, with fine S. and S-TS. windstillthe 21st instant: from thence liriit N. and N.W. winds till sighting the Three Kings on the 24th instant, and down the coast strong westerly weather. She briegs a cargo of Island produce, and the following passengers: Messrs R. H. Nolan, Cundall, Cox, Seery, Boch, and Kruppner. The s.s. Southern Gross sailed this afternoon for Napier direct, with n general cargo of merchandise. Sne is advertised to make weekly trips henceforth. The schooner Elizabeth Conway entered out wards at the Customs to-day for Noumea, and will sail on Monday next. The barque Speedwell arrived in harbour from Newcastle with a cargo of coal early this morningl. Captain Nickson reports leaving Newcastle on the 13th. inst. Lij?ht southerly winds and fine weather were experienced half way across, and northerly winds and fins weather from thencs to the Three Kings, which were passed on Tuesday nieht. Strong westerly and south westerly winds till arrival.

BIRTH.

FA-PV-H Alt.—On April 26, at tha pesidenccjol Mrs. Dixon. Karangahauß Road, the wife of Alexander Farquhar of a daughter. GIBSON.—On the 2Gth April, at Hqwo-strect, Newton, the wiio of J. C. M. Gibaon of a dauarhtor.

LITTLE.—On the 25th April, 1878, at her resi dence, Bakor-stroet, the wife of Mr. C. Little of a daughter.

MOORE.—On tho 17th March, 1878, at her resi dence, Kapanga Road, Coromandcl, the wife of Mr. John Moore of a daughter.

MARRIAGE.

GLADDING—HAYTER.—On tlio 21th April, at the residence o£ the bride, by the Rev. P. W. Jones, liampton Walter, oldest son of Mr. A. W. Gladding, Kingsland Road, Mount Albert, to Sarah Ann, eldest and only daughter of Mr. George Hayter, Brighton ltoad, Parnell.

DEATH.

CRUTCHLEY.—Henry Lightburn Crutchloy, aged 19 years.—North and South Staffordshire papers please copy. The funeral will leave his lato residence, Howe-street, on Monday, the 29th instant, at 4 p.m. Friends plesiso accept this invitation. MOORE.—On the 12th April, 1878, at her parents' residence. Kapanga Road, Coromandol, Mary Ann, daughter of Mr. John Moore, aged 5 years.

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

SATURDAY. APRIL 27. 1878.

s,-: t'-.c t .mite th»t lackt ?*sktiau:«, r-tw «*= wroog last needs tciltfase* i -i. tWe !'_>i.rc b tin (lliiaa-e,

The rejection by England of Prince Bis marck's proposal for a Conference to revise the Treaty of Paris, in view of the altered circumstances arising out of the Russo-Tur kish war, is another indication that the Beaconsficld Cabinet have resolved upon war unless Russia makes material con cessions. The prospects of peace are now very small, and it is not impossible that the real destination of the Bombay expedition is Gallipoli instead of Malta. With reference to the cable message announcing that the Government had pro hibited the export of torpedoes from England, we observe by late English papers that the Russian Govern ment had ordered 142 torpedo boats to cost £5,000 each, some of the machinery of which was contracted for in England. This, in con j unction Avith large orders given by the Government for the supply of torpe does for the Imperial Service, no doubt fur nishes a key to the restriction which has been found necessary. It is rather too strong a doctrine for free-trade England that her manufacturers should furnish war material to be turned against herself.

TIIE resolution passed yesterday afternoon by the Aucklaud Racing Club re the alleged pulling iin the Selling Race is one of great severity; but nevertheless, if the offence was clearly proved, the disqualification would be entirely in the interests of racing. We have not before us the evidence upon which the Club took action, and can, therefore, form no opinion on its sufficiency. This is hardly fair to Mr McGec ; the decision is one seriously affecting him as all owner, and the investigation should have been as open as any public court of inquiry. Put ting on one side, however, the merits of the individual case, of which, with out all the facts on both sides fully stated, we are not in a position to judge, we have no hesitation in saying that the resolution will give very general satisfaction, in so far as it may be taken as an expression of the Club's determination to put down all mal practices. Although it may appear to Mr McGec's friends that he has fallen a victim to[a regime not consistent with past practice, the public will have no reason to complain if the Club shew by their future actions that the owaier of Falcon has not been made amere scapegoat, but that the samcpolicy will be pursued to all offenders, without respect of persons. Nothing is more ruinous to the welfare of the turf than laxity, or leniency in dealing with anything like malpractice; and it is the misfortune of racing every where that . there is ample room for reforming efforts. The action of all Clubs should be uniformly such that owners who enter into a dishonest conspiracy with bookmakers to defraud the public will learn that it is a ruinous matter for them, from a sporting point of view, if they are found out, and that no one connected with the affair will meet with any mercy. There is another point connected with turf abuses which is worth noting. Bookmakers, and not owners, are, it is well known, at the bottom of nine out of ten swindles ; and we really cannot see why they should always get oil" scot free. They not merely tempt the owner from the path of virtue, but generally make a great deal more out of the transaction than he docs. It is therefore only fair that they should share the punishment. We are convinced that if some of these sharp gentry were warned off respectable courses, a most salutary effect might be produced. It would not be very difficult for stewards to drop on the right ones, for in spite of all precautions they are tolerably well known, and but little evidence would suffice in most cases. Perhaps after two or three leaders of the ring had been severely dealt with, the remainder would reconsider some of their ways—if not for the sake of honour and honesty, tor more selfish motives.

Free thought and Christianity have come into argumentative collision at Dimedin, and the former, finding itself worsted in the content, lias resoroed to the horsewhip. This style of argiimcntum ad hominein, not being likely to solve the merits of the ques tion, recourse has been made to the law of the kind, and the proceedings, which are interesting, and partake somewhat of a metaphysical character, are fully reported in a telegram iv another colum. Mr. J. G. S. Grant, the complainant in the case, is a man of Protean character, and his language nni] writ-intr have not l»nr»> f-vdh '■*■'< t"smon+h the social umeuiticu of lift.1, or calculated to

secure the approbation of men of moderate minds. Nevertheless his writings are cha racterised by a Spartan severity of language and a degree of real scholarship which are refreshing in this age of eha'ms. Mr. Grant does not hesitate to call a spade by its plain name ; and perhaps he displays tod little re spectfor the prejudicesand feeliags of others. On the other hand, his opponents appear to suffer from a degree of moral sensitiveness which they can never be brought te excuse in these whose mental faculties are not exactly cast in the same mould as their own. " Or thodoxy is my doxy, and heterodoxy is your doxy," is the dogma of Mr. Bright and his disciples. These can see nothing but the highest form of virtue in hurling insults at the creed of the professed Christian; but wheu their own position is assailed in the same forcible, if not polite and logical way, they must have recourse to horsewhips. If Mr J. G. S. Grant caused some pain and a great deal of commotion by his stinging remarks on the tendency of the Free-thought lectures, what is to be said for the feelings of opposite thinkers," which are outraged by tne insults levelled at these meetings.'at religious people and those rules of life which they have been taught to reverence from early childhood ? Let us suppose, for example, that some pious son, whose feelings re volted at the sneers and insults so pro fusely poured forth against Christians by Mr Bright, and received by his disciples with all the com plaisancy of approval and endorsement, had become impressed that his mother, wife, and sister, were included "in the category of denunciation, and was hence imbued with the idea that nothing but a bludgeon or a horsewhip could wipe out the injury—would the learned Resident Magistrate have given the same Dogberrian decision as he has recorded in this case of Grant ?

A .meeting of the Parnell Borough "C'diuicil -was convened yesterday for the purpose of hearing objections to the Burgess Roll, but as only the Mayor and three Councillors were present, the meeting -was adjourned until Tuesday next. At a meeting of the Auckland Skating Club, held at the Choral Hall yesterday evening, the office-bearers and committee of last season were re-elected, and the opening night lixed for the second Wednesday in Way. The lion, the Native Minister has author ised the Thames County Council to proceed with the road which Tukukino is endeavour ing to obstruct, and legal measures will be taken if future obstruction be proceeded with. We have to acknowledge, on behalf "of Mrs Larapra, the amount collected by Miss Fleming— £3 5s 7d. Having visited the Kaipara railway line yesterday, the Native Minister has urged the Public Works Department to push on the work. It is expected that tenders will be called for about the sth orGth prox. The members of the Victoria Company company competed at the Rifle Range this afternoon for the Ladies Prize. The scores will appear on Monday evening. His Excellency^the Governor leaves for the South in the Hincmoa on Monday week. To the Editor : Sir,—Some time ago I sent one of Brett's Almanacs to a corres pondent in Melbourne. In a letter which I received is the following tribute to its value : " I am so much obliged for the Almanac. What a compendium of in formation ! Quite superior to any we have here." I feel proud of receiving such a testimony to the value of an Auckland publication, and would suggest that you increase the number of your next edition, as I could not get as many copies as I wished this year.—l am, &c, AUCKLAND. • During the passage of the brigantine Ada C. Uwou, all the passengers and crew, ex cepting Messrs Nolan, i >ar:ach, and Cap tain McLcod, were attacked with Island fever. Two deaths occurred. About three years ago a little boy of six summers, the son of Mrs Nelson, of Grey street, was taken away from Auckland by a company of players, ova promise that the boy would be adopted by the actor who professed to take care of him. Mrs Nelson knew nothing of the subsequent career of her son until a few days since, when she received a newspaper extract, informing her of his whereabouts and position, cut from the " Coos Bay News," published in the county of Oregon, lying between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Oceau. The poor Auckland boy, it appears, has been travelling with Samwell's animal show, for' the amuse ment of the public, treated with little more consideration, and perhaps not quite so much, as that bestowed on the animals, by a man named Morfcing, who claimed the boy as his own. The boy.went by the name of Walter, and danced and trapezed, it seems, with a little girl, professionally called "Lottie," after the lady gymnast (Mrs Armstrong) who was performing at the Prince of Wales Theatre in Auckland at the time the boy was taken away. Mr Samwcll, possessed of more humanity than the tyrant who claimed the children, in formed the editor of the journal in question that the children had been grossly ill-used by Moiling ; aud the editor worthily interviewed the children, and, having assured them that they should be protected, drew from the boy a harrowing account of his wrongs. At Empirn City, for smoking a paper cigarette, |Morting tied him hand and foot, and compelled him to lie all night in that position. The boy confessed that his name was not Morting, but Arthur Aloii2o Nelson, and, knowing no better, stated that he had been kidnapped from Auckland, New Zealand. The editor sheltered the boy until ho was taken by Sheriff Aikeu, who promised to adopt and educate him, unless his parents, if dis covered, should wish to have him back. Mrs Nelson was overjoyed on the receipt of tidings of her long-lost son, and expresses her intention of writing to Sheriff Aiken by the next mail in respect of his future welfare. A gentleman well-known iv Auckland, who is supposed to be the best euchre player in the North, was last night seduced into the side show, and persuaded into undertaking a game with the learned pig. Ten minutes afterwards he came out tear ing his hair. The pig had beaten him ! His Honor Judge Gillies will leave for YVellington on Tuesday, to atteud the sit ting of the Appeal Court. Claims made by natives to the Patutahi block have been disallowed, on the ground that they neglected tojprofer their claims at the regular sittings of the Native Land Courts. At a sitting in Chambers yesterday an application by Mr Whitaker for an extension of time, within which a new trial may be moved for iv the case of R. Arthur v. the Waikato Steam Navigation Company, was granted. The subject of adopting the English system of making the police of the colony wear a distinguishing1 number is under the consideration of the Government. Particulars of Sunday services will be found on our third page. The religious service for the people will be held in the theatre at the usual hour of eight o'clock. At the inquest on the body of Mrs McCoskrie, the particulars of which appeared in our last issue,jthe jury, after we went to press, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." '"" Swedenborg's works, it will be seen by advertise.neub in another column, may be borrowed gratis on application to Mr Clare, Custom House-street; or Mr Batty, Pon sonby road. The house of James Dunn, insured in the South British for £400, was destroyed by fire at Oamaru yesterday. At Wanganui, Henry Fisher and Walter Coker, charged with attempting to defraud their'creditors hare been convicted. Senteuco was deferred. The Government offers a bonus of £5,000 for the first producer of 500 tons of market sugar from beet grown iv the North Island, and a similar amount for the Middle Island. i

A meeting of the creditors in the estate of Mark Somerville, grocer, of Queen-street, Avas held yesterday afternoon. The liabili ties were set down at £3,176 ; assets, £1,410. A.n offer of 5s in the pound for the estate was made by Mr Maxfield, which was finally accepted. Messrs J. Lamb and H. Brown wore appointed trustees to the estate. Mr Richard Hobbs has issued an address to the electors of Franklyn, which appears in another column, and we learn that, encouraged by many promises of support, he is resolved to go to the poll. Mr Hoobs is a native of the colony, and if he enters parliament will be the third {[member New ;Zealand-born sent to the legisla ture from Auckland. He is also a member of the Manukau County Council, which embraces a large portion of the Franklyn electorate ; and has taken an active interest in the affairs of the district. He is by no means new to public life, having held a seat in the ' City Council for some years, where he pur sued an active and independent policy. Mr Hobbs comes out asiasupporter ot Sir George Grey's policy, and took aleadingpartinsecur ingthe election of Messrs Hamlin and Lusk. Ten members of the Forest Rifles and ten of the Pukekohe Volunteers fired a match at Waiuku during the present week, which resulted in favour of the Pnkekohe men. Forest, 529 ; Pukekohe, 552. ■ To the Editor : Sir,—Will you kindly answer the following question : —Has _ a dromedary got one or two humps on its back ? and oblige.—Yours, etc., H.M. [Only one hump.—Ed. E.S.] In future the Telegraph Office closes at 8 p.m. on Saturdays.

The Governor's Northern Tour.

[DV TELEGRAPH.]

(From our own Correspondent.)

HOKIANGA, this day,

Yesterday His Excellency the Governor made a stay at Herd's Point of a few hours. His Excellency and party then proceeded up the river to Taliekc, en route to Auck land. Much disappointment is expressed here that his visit was shortened suddenly by the native allusions to Sir George Grey and the Native Minister.

NAUGHTY GOVERNOR BOWEN.

The Melbourne correspondent of the " Otago Daily Times" in a recent letter thus discourses upon some bits of current scandal regarding our old friend Sir Georgie B. :—" It is to be regretted that the habit of talking of the private concerns of their betters should be so besetting a sin of the common order of people. Thus we find here a great deal of gossip going round about personages holding even the highest positions in the community. How Sir George quarrelled with Sir Hercules because Sir G had tried to put upon Sir H. some things- which he (Sir G.) had said, and ought not to have said ; how Sir IT. was believed in preference to SirG.; how Sir H., in consequence, when he came to Melbourne declined to have anything to do with Sir G., and took a private house, and treated him with a liberal allowance of the cold shoulder. And then how another Governor was dis gusted to find that his words, spoken iv con fidence, had been twisted, and falsiiied, and repeated by a vice-regal brother, and also went away, feeling either very hot or cold —for accounts differ—and vowing to be more cautious in future when in such company. And then, how a naughty Governor went a - botanising iv a rich and splendid garden, and found there a modest violet, highly prized by the gardener, and essayed to pluck this violet ; but—here again the account becomes plainly mythical—wns scratched and abused by the violet, and they do say kicked by the violet's relative — which is plainly impossible."

THEATRE ROYAL.— THE NEW SEASON.

There arc promising indications of an excel lout season at the Theatre Royal, if one may judge from the energetic manner in which tho preparations are being pushed forward. Tho theatre is just now tho scene of great activity. Some very fine pictures have been placed upon the walls of Mr John Jack, which are said to be a vory correct iikoness of him in his great character of Sir John JTalstaff. Other pictures of ilisa Firman in tho character of "Mercy Merriek" in "The New Magdalen," attract the attention of theatre-goers. Concerning this lady's impersonation of this character, a leading Americanjournalsays:—'"The New Magdalen," a beautiful dramatisation from Wilkio Collins' novel of the same title, was rendered last night, to a good audience. Of the personation of the diameter of " Mercy Merrick," by Miss Firmin, we can truthfully and candidly say that she far surpasses our expectations. That lady has shown great versatility of talent since her lirst appearance hero. She is a charming and ac complished songstress, aud a very clever com modionue. P"Merey Merriok" is a character which calls for a largo degree of pathos, in tensity of feeling, and a dramatic vehemence, and we confess we felt certain' that Miss Fir min would bo scarcely adequate to tho severe test which some of the scenes necessarily call for. But in no respect did wo find her defec tive. Where wo feared she would display her weakness- in the more trying situations of the drama—she manifested to tho best advantage her strength in the scone where tho miserable wretched woman, realising her degradation, conffFses her shame to the real " Grace llose bery." Miss Firmin) evinced a depth of feeling truly touching, and when stung by the cold and heartless taunts hurled at her, she rose to a height of dramatic vehemence, which was almost sublime. Through out Miss Firmin'rt personation was characterised by care, close,attention of stage detail, grace, unaffected naturalness, and correct elocution. She dresses the piece with splendid taste. During the evening Miss Firmin and her sister were called before the curtain by the delighted audience. Mr Jack as " Julian Gray," was very fine. His acting was quiet but im pressive, and many of his grand and beautiful speeches elicited a tempest of applause.

POLICE COURT.—THIS DAY.

(Before E. C. Barstow Esq., K.M.) SLAVES OF BACCHUS.- Andrew Macklin was lined 10s for inebriety, and Martin Lestrauge, a miser ably-clad individual, was fined in the same amount. RACHEL. A young person named Rachel Voleu, alias Codd, was charged with drunkenness and disorderly conduct in Chancery Lane last night. The young person pleaded guilty. Canstable Kelly described the disorderly conduct. Rachel was haranguing a post, and threatening to give it him right and left. She struck the post several times. He took her into custody. Fined 20s and costs. Harriet Podcsta, for similar offences, was fined in the same amount, or 48 hours. A TRUANT BOY. Frederick Hayson, a boy of 9, was charged with absconding from the Howe street institution. Sub-Inspector Pardy said the boy had a big brother who was continually enticing him away from.the School. Mr Stickly said he did not think-the boy was.really bad at heart, but his friends, who lived near, were a sore temptation to him; the boys father was a travelling tinker ; he had tried every means to keep him at school, and was obliged to resort to measures which were against his feelings, namely to shut the boy up, and on another occasion to try the offect of a dogs chain round his leg. So soon however, as he got his liberty, lie was off. His Worship remarked xipon the im proved condition of the Loy since he had been in the school, and considered that this was one of those cases in which whipping should be resorted to. Mr Stickley said he was against corporeal punishment, but in several instances inwhich he had been compelled to whip boys,. the result had been satisfactory. His Worship ordered the boy to be .sent back to school, and privately whipped. SIMILAR CHARACTERS. James Hanson, Michael O'Connor/ Thos. Quinn, and Edward Towas were charged with absconding from the Naval Training school, Kohimaramara, ou the 23rd mat-. On the application of the Sub-Inspector, they were remanded until Tuesday next. This was all the business.

BRITISH AND FOREIGN BIBLE SOCIETY.

The annual meeting of the subscribers to the Auckland Auxiliary of the British and * oreign Bible Society was held last evening in ■ the Young Men's Christian Association Rooms There •was a moderate attendance. . His Lordship, Bishop Cowie, occupied the The' meeting was opened by the reading of tho Scriptures, praise, and prayer. apologies. . , Apologies for non-attendance were received from Yen. Archdeacon Maunsell, Rpvs •*• Robertson, D. W. Dutton, B. Taylor, T. Kirk, O. M. Nelson, and others. ANNUAL REPORT AND BALANCE BHEEr. The Hon. Secretary (Rev H. Lawry) read the annual report, from which we abridge tho fol lowing :—Your committee regret to record the death of two valued friends—the Right Rev the Bishop of Waiapu (formerly president of this auxiliary) and the Rev Benjamin Backhouse. The Rev J. T. (Evans has been appointed to succeed Mr Backhouse as agent. The proposal to placo copies of the Scripture in hotels and lodging houses had boen received witb favour by many proprietors, and 129 copies had been thus placod. A supply of Bibles had also been provided for the Hospital. Between 1814) and 1861 the Society ha^ printed no les* than 120,000 copies of various portions of the Scriptures in Maori, at a cost of £6,000. A further edition of 5,000 copies of the entire Bible had. been pub lished, and already 1538 copies were sold. Bibles had been supplied to ai native missionary in the . King country. The issues from the depdt of, this auxiliary during the year were ;—By sale: English, 2,iU ; Maori (Bible 3 258, Testaments 2G2), 520; Danish, 1 ; Fijian, 5; French, 9; Gaelic, 15; German, 1; Greek, 6 ; Hebrew, i; Irish, 1; Italian, i; Latin, 6. Samoan, 1; Swedish, 2 ; Syriac, 1; Tongan, 1; and Welsh, 1: total, 3,352. Sold by tho colporteur, 36 ; free grants, 320 volumes. Thus the total issues for the year ending March 31 amount to 3,70S volumes—being an increase ot 960, or 35 per cent, on last year's issues, ihe stock on hand comprises 3,097 volumes, or which 180 aro portions. Its total value is £29* 6s 9d. Signs of increased vitality are noticeable amongst tho various branches of tho auxiliary. An encouraging statement of the progress of the parent society was also read. The balance-sheet, read by Mr J. C. ■.urth, treasurer, shewed :—Receipts: £i6i in od, to which must be added £5 collected by Miss Kennedy and Miss Oxley, and £H 11s 6d from Onehunga. Sale of Bibles at depdt, £195 83 6d; Maori Bibles, £70 9s: total. £265 17s 6d. Sub scriptions received at depot, £2117s lOd; do., by the adheront3of the late Rev. Norman McLeod, of Waipu, £67 11s 6d; subscriptions col'ected by ladies, £187 8s |10d; subscriptions by congrega- ; tion of the Rev. W. Macrae, Waipu, £1116s (the two sums from Waipu, making together £79, was a remittance to the parent Society on free grant account); Society remittance on free grant account, £75 ; remitted to parent Society on purchase account, £252 0s 4d. His Lordship Bishop Cowie said he looked upon the report just read as one of the strongest evidences of the truth of Christianity. He then referred at some length to the discovery of the Kpistle of Clement the First, Bishop of Rome ;. and shewed how these discoveries were proving overpowering testimonies in favour of the truth of Christianity. Mr J. C. Firth then moved, " That the report, an abstract of which has been read, be received printed and circulated under the direction of the committee." Seconded by Rev A. W. Webb, and agreed to. Key A. Carriok moved, and Mr F. Larkins seconded, " That; this meeting is devoutly thankful to Almighty God for the success vouchsafed to tho British atid Foreign Bible Society and other kindred organisations during tho past year ; and that it recognises therein a loud call upon the Christian Church to use re newed activity and zeal in their branch of God's service, and to plead more earnestly than here tofore that the Holy Spirit's influence may accompany tho written Word wherever circul ated, making it extensively effectual in the salvation of souls." Carried. On the motion of Sir T. Macffarlane, seconded by Mr T. Poacock, tho jthanks of the meeting wero passed to the Committee, officers, and especially the collectors of the auxiliary. A vote of thanks to the Chairman was carried by acclamation, and the meeting terminated with the Doxology and benediction.

CABLEGRAMS.

BISMARCK'S IDEA OF THE CON GRESS.

[reuter's special cablegram.] BERLIN, April 25. Bismarck says the basis of a European Congress is an invitation to the signatory Powers to revise the Treaty of Paris of 1556, while considering the altered situa tion resulting from the Russo-Turkish war. ENGLAND REFUSES AN INDEFI NITE CONGRESS.

SINGAPORE, April 26. The British Government regards the in vita lion for a Conference as too indefinite. THE ERIE RAILWAY. LONDON, April 26. The Erie Railway has been bought by the trustees for six million dollars.

AUSTRALIAN.

RAND WICK RACES. All-aged Stakes.—Bosworth, 1; Rooni bie, 2 ; Napper Tandy, 3. Free Handicap.—Kitty, 1, Dockwood, 2 ; Falcon, 3. Sires' Peodttce.—His Lordship, 1; Emily, 2 ; Lord Burghley, 3. Time : lruin. 31isecs. Cumberland Stakes. —Dead heat be tween Chester and Cap-a-pie ; Strathcaim a bad third. Time : 3min. 47secs. Chester won the ruu-oii by ahulf-length, after a des perate race. City Handicap.—Pardon, 1; Maccaroni^ 2 ; Janitor, 3.

NEW ZEALAND LOAN AND MER CANTILE AGENCY COMPANY LIMITED, PRODUCE TELEGRAM.

LONDON, April 24. Wool.—Market unchanged. There has been a little private inquiry. The next sales will commence on the 14th prox. The sales comprise about 300,000 bales. Tallow.—Market flat. Beel fat, 39s Gd ; mutton fat, 3Ss per cwt. Wheat.—Market quiet. Reports are favourable concerning the growing crop here. Adelaide is worth 60s, and New Zealand 50s per 4961b5. Leather, —Market easier. Best sides Oid per pound.

CREDITORS' MEETINGS.

RE LEWIS BROTHERS.

A MEETING of tho creditors ill ihe estate of Lewis Bros, was held yeste.day as we were going to press in the offices of Messrs Hughes and George, solicitors. The meet ing was called for the purpose of assenting to a deed of assignment as follows :— "Between Gabriel Lewis, Henry Lewis, and Morris Lewis, trading in co-partner ship as ' Lewis Brothers,' of the first part; and Edward Isaacs (merchant), Herman Brown (coffee and spice merchant), and F. G. H. Rummer (Kummer and Co.), of the second part; and all the creditors of the said debtors, of the third part," &c. Mr Kummer was voted to the chair. After some preliminary remarks upon the state ment of affairs, Mr George called the atten tion of the meeting to the immediate business, namely to assent to the deed. Mr Nathan then moved : " That the deed of assignment, according to the terms of the advertisement, be assented to." Mr Brown seconded, and Mr Stevenson, of the firm of Messrs A. Clark and fSons, moved aa an amendment : " That this meeting be adjourned for four teen days, to await the arrival of the Eng lish mail." The mover said that he was authorised in sayiug that Dr. Campbell had received a telegram to say that a poweifof attorney was coming to that gentleman, who had consented to act under such power- At the last meeting, the amount owing uns secured creditors was £36,000; now it i increased to the exteut of £S,OOO, making altogether about £44,000. Although lie was Avilling to admit the assets were increased also, yet it shews that in Auck land there are creditors to the extent of barely £5,000 or £6,000. He thought there fore,: that as a power of attorney was coming from England, and that no power :could come to the estate, it was necessary to _ adjourn, the meeting until the decision or wishes of the home credi tors could be known. Messrs Hughes, Morns, Lewis, Lamb, E. ' Isaacs, and D. Hcan having made remarks, gener ally agreeing with .the"adjournment, Mr Btevenson's amendment was carried unani mously : ."That this meeting stands ad journed to the IStii day of May (pro:;.) at the same Lour and place, for tho purpose of enabling the English creditors to be re presented." The meeting then separated.

Great Horsewhipping case.

Amusing Cross - Examination Grant. °n Of

(BY TELEGRAPH). (From our own Correspondent.) The Police Court Ja^owS to hear the assault case of J Q 07?%, who swore that Logan caught IdmWi ' neck and commenced belabourim, Ac saying, "lie would make hi m S r,L^, what he said about Stout." His * examination by Mr Haggitt Was I^*, amusing. He said he knew that nirif/fv* something was going to happen fco^t times I havo prognostications " J °°Bie- Mr Haggitt: On how many q.^ • have you been horsewhipped ? cw*sioi] g Gran t: Ido not think I was'horsewW i I think it was a stick that wa« ,f Pf stout instrument. " U3e<*—a • How many times have you h Pon : saulted? * deen as. That day I was threatened in brn-,,1 a light by Mr Bright's committee,^ was manly. That opossum of mmtiu* Bright s secretary, was present, f y> assaulted three times in public bvTno Was Morton; once by Henningham a™pector by Gillon. ° ' and °«cc. Have not all these resulted out nf . + free use of your pen ? ullOlatoo There is no doubt they were the oinw of my satire. People will insist o^*! writing on local matters, and I ku ow ™y pen is satirical ; and when it does stir bile I am never supported. ™up But you are sometimes horsewhipped ' ■ I don't like that phrase ; I am tt ot« evolutionist. iaa . But when you let other men aloae the don't interfere with you ? * Public men must expect their actions to be publicly criticised. They are open Z fair criticism, and i can prove what I xmh to be fair. 1 will put down scowlina blasphemy. "The Wages of Blasphemy" produced is written by me. In accordant* with my usual custom, I have been selling books in the streets. Mr Stout seat a bullying letter to the printer, and stoimJ? " the circulation ; but he has nothing Z to do for £1,500 a-year. s m His Worship : If you make these re marks, which are totally unwarranted I shall commit you. Do you not know that Mr Logan is in the habit of atteudim? Mr Bright's lectures ? gaU I do not. Have you attended these lectures your, self ? Only once. You know Logan's father attends? Clearly ; he is one of the chief pillars. You know ladies go there ? Yes : what are conventionally termed ladies. Now, Logan's wife, his mother, and his sisters attend-these lectures. In your article did you write these words : "Every Sunday evening worthless men and aban doned women congregate at the theatre to liston to a foul tirade against the religion of Christ?" '" I wrote that; I do not mean sensually abandoned: but spiritually and religiously abandoned. Then, I ask you what this deans: ."When a man makes a shipwreck of his faith, he soon becomes a worthless person indeed; but when a woman loses her reli gion, she will very soon lose her virtue 11 also ?" That is a logical sequence. Virtue is founded on religion ; and when you do away with religion you do away -with . morality and virtue. And do you think any man. would submit quietly to have his mother, wife, and sisters spoken of as " abandoned " women! That is a general proposition. I may say that Dunedin is highly immoral. But it does not follow that Mr Haggitt is immoral unless he had put the cap on his head. If accused had asked me if I included his mother, I should at once have exonerated her, for I believe there is not a more respect able woman in the town. We will take that apology. It is not an apology, for though I" believe there is not a better woman in:a Dunediu, I regret very much if she has been led away by this foolish faith. (Laughter.) It is merely a general,pro position, which is not a libel • Could any man reading the article;. believe you made a mental reservation of-: Mr Logan. ' I cannot supply brains for people to read articles. Do you think that what Logan did ■will prevent you from writing of his family again ? ■ ..■ "tr I wrote as a logician and a philosopher," and it will not alter my style. Were you not assaulted on a Melbourne: - steamer by J. L. Gillies ? It is an unmitigated falsehood; as false as hell. I was brought over to piit your educational machinery in force, for which you rewarded me so liberally. : ..:,-,. The offence was. proved, and merely a nominal line was imposed. _The iT verdict of . the Bench and "the ' publie;i was, "Served him right." Ido npt Know, what was the verdict of the public; lam not in their secrets. ■ '~,,"" ,'-.: Grant insisted on the attendance.of Ml*: Stout, Avho was engaged in the Supreme^ Court, to prove that he (Mr Stout) in structed Logan to assault him; butfthe,-; Bench ruled that such a question, could j not be asked. Mr Haggitt contended that the assault was perfectly justified, because the article, ~. attacked the mother, wife, and sisters of - the accused. In order to show that Jhe_.. relations of accused were distinctly referred to, Mr Haggitt quoted the following; extract : " It is as if," Talbot will say, "« is ominous to see 0 Ministerial portfolio . conferred upon one who has presided publicly at an assembly in which insults of the most revolting kind were offered to-; . the Creator and thePcedeenier of the world. > The new Attorney»General,' Robert Stout,.■_.. should call his father-in-law, John Logan ~ Esq., J.P., to the Upper House; so that Spiritualism and freethought ■ may hays exponents in both branches of the New Zealand Legislature." John Dick, printer, and Thos. Bracken. newspaper proprietor, gave evidence to tne effect that they had read the article in question, and considered it of a scurrilous character ; and that it referred to defen dant's relations, whom they had frequently met at the freethought lectures. His Worship, in delivering judgmW; ' said : If I did what I consideied would oe. abstract justice, I should dismiss the case with costs against the complainant; °ut (l af I have to administer the law, as. * !*w/ must, I decide to the best of my ability according to law. No doubt the compl&M" j. ant has broken the law in libelling tne, attendants at the lectures, and m doing?? he has wounded the accused in his tenderer - feelings, and for this he (the accused)^ v no practical remedy save by the method ne has taken. This, however, in my opinion, does not by any means legalise the assauu, nor does one wrong justify another uw light of the law. The accused is fined** and ordered to pay the costs of Court. •

THE CAMBRIDGE COMET.

(To the Editor.) _ Sift,-Yo;ir several reports ann°u^ n.SJ?l :; discovery of a brilliant comet, visible atmiu have rather perplexed mo. Its position wasK" ; as 40 D west ot! the sun; this, however, cannot v* otherwise the comet must be visible as a B^^l" object in the morning sky. It aoon ocoureu. . me-that the splendour of Venus had &v mist.ike.nly assumed to be that of a comok.«" { :: at this tithe she shines with ker Svht brilliancy, and anyone possessing .e/Sjn '"•■' may see. her on a clear day up to two O^ o.^', the afternoon. As a guide to your num9:« readers, I append the following , dirf?v^t!i! \vl\ich will enable them to find the plan^ViW comparative readiness :—She comes ™. „ meridian of Auckland about Sh. 46min..morw. at which time her altitude is nearly J° a f n ii^e any of your readers will look at that planet due north (west of magnetic nqnw 'T^ little more than half-way from the horizon {"j. zeneth. they will not fail to find *iis n wtbß whicli has, no doubt, been the foun? ayO,MBWv . Cambridge report.—l am, &c, S. J- ■ UW*T, F.R.A.S.

EVENING STAR, SATURDAY AFIUL 27, 1878



{CLOVER SEEDS, RYE GRASS, &O. On Sale, ex Late Arrivals : CLOVER SEEDS, CONSISTING OF White Clover Timothy Red Clover Rape Cow Grass Trefoil Alsyke &c, &c, &c. Turnip ALSO, 200 bushels ENGLISH PERENNIAL RYE GRASS 50 bushels ENGLISH POA PRATENSIS ToOO lbs. INDIAN DOOB GRASS 11,000 lbs. ALFALPA 1=2,000 lbs, AMERICAN TIMOTHY. AND A Fine Collection of Farm and Garden Seeds. Tho above have arrived in first-class condition. will be forwarded on application. -"Poverty Bay, Canterbury, andlocal RyeGras? Cock3foot, Ratatail, Poas Fescues, &c. &c. from carefully selected samples, at lowest mar ket rates . W. J. HURST & CO., Queen-street. "TVISSOLUTION OF PARTNERSHIP. The Partnership hitherto existing between J. COSGRAVE AND W. GRAHAM Trading under the style of firm of J. COSGRAVE & CO., MERCHANTS AND IMPORTERS Queen-street, Auckland, Is about to be Dissolved by mutual consent; and in order to Wind-up the Partnership Accounts, the ENTIRE STOCK, Consisting of over FIFTY THOUSAND POUNDS WORTH OF DRAPERY & MEN'S CLOTHING, WILL BE esr Disposed of at Cost Pkice ! Tea All Accounts owing to J. Cosgrave and Co. must be paid forthwith. No Goods will be Entered during the Sale. The Premises were Opened ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, When the Sale Commenced. J. COSGRAVE & CO.



A.» LINABURY & C DRESSMAKERS AND MILLINERS. NEW DRESS MATERIALS. A Large Assortment of New Dress Goods or the present Season, in every fashionable shade, Just Opened up at A. LINABURY & CO.'S. NEW WINTER COSTUMES, NEW MANTLES, NEW ULSTERS, NEW MILLINERY, NEW HATS A Large Assortment of Paris Trimmed Hats and Bonnets Just Opened up. Also, Hosiery, Silk T: Q,s, Umbrellas, Collars and C tiffs, Gloves, Chiiure s Mantles and Jackets. Also, A LARGE STOCK OF NOVELTIES, Which are Cheap, and will have quick sale. tsr Look in at *s* A. LINABURY & CO. 'S, 201 & 206, QUEKN-STRfSET, Auckland.



"Persons who adopt coke for fuel are scarcely ever known to revert to the use of coal." The value ot coke as a fuel, and as a means of economy oi coal, is not appreciated sufficiently. A mixed fuel of coal and coke is invaluable for the ordinary purposes _ of heating, and still more for those of cooking and raising steam, as it absorbs tne smoke or inflammable gases given off by coal during combustion, and renders the lire brighter, clearer, and hotter. Every house holder .should buy coals and coke at the same time, and, if convenient,, mix them ; smaller hills nnd satisfaction will bo the !••«■". •■■■ •■ i--.f ■■■•■: :■ >■ f-ivo-fcisc] els--



/GREATEST SHOW OF RESS VTOODS AT THE CITY HALL ARCADE, QUEEN-STREET. HOLLO WAY, GARLICK, & CR AN WELL. GREATEST SHOW OP FURNITURE AND CARPETS AT THE CITY HALL ARCADE. HOLLOW AY, GARLICK, & CR AN WELL. FOR BEDROOM FURNITURE DRAWING-ROOM FURNITURE SITTING-ROOM FURNITURE KITCHEN FURNITURE DRAPERY and MILLINERY MEN'S and BOYS' CLOTHING CURTAINS and CRETONNES BLANKETS aud SHEETINGS FANCY GOODS FOR PRESENTS GO TO THE /^ITV 'JO" ALL A RCADE, Hoiloway, @a?lic!s Ss Oraawell, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. A UOKLAND GAS COMPANY CIiIMITKD). The price ofj Coke is now 20a per on, a th Works, for Cash; or, if so agreed, Monthly Accounts at 255, with 5s per ton discount. Cartage, within reasonable distances, at 2s 6d per ton. A ton of Coke is equal to 60 bushels, or about double the bulk of Coal. DRAPERY I XVR~A PERY ±J KST NEW SEASON GOODS ! ! SOMEItFIELD AND LECK In taking this opportunity to address their numerous friends and the general public, desire to express thanks for liberal patronage, and beg to introduce to their notice a very Superior Selection o£ Goods ex Chasca, Fontenaye, and Chili, NOW OPENING, comprising Blankets, Flannels, Calicos, Shirtings, Sheetings, Tick ings, Winceys, Satin Cloths, All Wool Serges, Hosiery, &c , All Wool Shawls, &c. Men's and Boys' Clothing. Moleskins, Corduroys, Tweeds, fee. This Large and Well-assorted Stock, having been Purchased for Cash in the over-stocked English Markets, is Now Offered for Salis at Prices Lower than Ever Hears of in Auckland. Inspection Invited. jtsr VERY SPECIAL LINE. HEAVY Hi FAMILY BLANKETS, at 17s 6d. Country Orders will have special attention. Hawkers Supplied at Wholesale Prices. SOMERFIELD & LECK, QUKEN-STREET, Aucklaud. "T MAGNIFICENT STOCK OF NEW AUTUMN AND WINTER DRESS MATERIALS Just Opened. .ff« A TKINS Invites attention to his Stock of New Dress Materials, Ladies Jackets, Ulsters, Black and Coloured Silks, Velvets, "Velve teens, &c, suitable for the coming Season. Now on View. Splen did Colours in Now Silk Reps, Wool Reps, Wool Poplinettea, Satin Cloths, WoolSerees.Twilled Carmelites, Estamane Serges, French Merinos, Winscys, and. Fancy Dress Goods. All splendid value. All the new shades pro curable in Stock. The selection this season is the largest and best ever shewn in the city. Good quality Black Silk at 3a lid per yard. All the new shades in Coloured Silks. Also Good Cheap Blankets, Quilts, Sheetings, Table Linen, Flannels, Calicos, and Manchester Goods. IN THE CLOTHING DEPART M*E,N T New Tweed Suits. Coats, Trow sera and Vests suitable for all classes. A large Stock of Boy's and Youth's Tweed Suits, in our own make and imported. An immense stock of New Tweeds in Bannockbui'n, Mosgiel, Scotch, West of England, & c . Tailors can select from the largest stock in Auckland at Wholesale Prices. Cheap Tweeds suitable for Boy's wear. Good ~ Quality; Guaranteed, and Peices Lowest in Auckland fok i£ALL Descriptions of Drapery and Clothing. it 3" H. A T X I N S. ~S* W ADIES AND GENTLEMEN about to JLJ FURNISH are reminded that ONE OF THE LARGEST STOCKS IN THE COLONY OF FURNITURE CARPETS FLOORCLOTHS BEDDING, &c, &c, &c. Is on Sale at T. & E. Oooke's FURNISHING WAREHOUSE 67, Queen-street. A UTUMN AND WINTER, IS7S The undersigned are bringing fo ward Large Parcels of NEW GOODS *or the Incoming Season's Trade, Comprising GENERAL DRAPERY and CLOTHING Of Every Description. Entirely New and w ell Bought both as regards Quality and Price, Particulars in future issu. Inspectionlnvited. FIVE PKTI CENT. (Is. in the &), ALLOWED ON ALL CASH PUR > CHASES .OF 20S. and UPWARDS. -.RtfSHBROOK AND BIIIDGMAN, : DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, Sep., JUNCTION D'RAPEUY WAREHOUSE (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel), UPPER QUE EN - S T II X IS T, A U C X I, A N I).



A GRICUL TUR A L RISKS. THE NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY IS prepared to INSURIfi against FIRE— Agricultural Risks, Grain in Stook or Stack, and Steam Threshing Machines travelling from cllace to place. LOWEST CURRENT RATES. HENRY E. WILLIAMS, ONEDU ST! BONEDUST Bonedust \ To Arrive, per Hero 100 TONS BONEDUST. Also, Just Landed, ex Borough Belle: A FINE SAMPLE OF BILLYARD'S No. 1 BONEDUST. W. J. HURST & CO., 101, Queen-street.



We are counselled by the wise not to put our trust in princes; but we are also counselled that the sick need the physician. Thero are now SO many, and all of so conflicting a tendency, that the sick are unhappily but too often bewildered, and in despair, apt to abandon all efforts to re gain the lost health. The trustworthy friend is now at hand. The most marvellous cures have been effected by "Ghollah's Great Indian Cures." Sick people, try them. S *un as you would prussic acid the detestable shams which their vendors proclaim as identical with, similar to, or as good as Udolpho Wolfe's Sciiiedam Aromatic Schnapps. They are all worse than worthless. Very frequently they are sold in bottles which previously contained, the genuine article, which is as agreeable and remedial as they are nauseous and hurtful.