SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

• t-u ur,.,iifn' (This Afternoon, 8.46 sflfc.ll v\A,lft!l— -i T o-morrow Morning, 9.3 SUN oST.—This Evening, 6.8 ■="/■<"■ fITS!G.— To-morrow Mornin:.-, 6.9 MOON'S AC!lo.—Last quarter, 26th, 4.29 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

Alalanta, schooner, f rom Waitara (in tho Manu-

kan). Fontenaye, ship, 634 tons, Taylor, from London Bllerton, schooner, from Oamaru

DEPARTURES.

itqwena, s.s.. for Mercury Bay '■ "::z.ib3th Con way, schooner, for Napier

IMPORTS.

Par Fontenaye from London: 4,924 packages, 585 ca^es, 72S casks, 355 boxes, 125 bundles, 27 bales. 32 sa.?ks 2 crates, 8 tank 3, 8 barrells, 4 trunks, and 65 tons pig iron. For transhipment to Poverty Bay: 120 packages, 3 cases. For transhipment to Napier: 83 package?, 125 bandies, 20 kegs, and l.case.

7 cases drapery and clothing.—T. McMaster. 2,53a packages, 18 bales, 25 J-casks, 125 cases.— Owen & Graham.

•23 cases.—S. Porter & Co,

EXPORTS.

Per vrauaka. for th« South :— 1 canvas bale.—lreland Bros. 1 case.—Henderson & Macfarlane. G packages.—Owen & Graham.

ARRIVAL OF THE SHIP FONTENAYE FROM LONDON.

Tho fine shin Fontenaye, Captain iayior, arrived in harbour at, 8 o'clock this morning from London, win a full cargo and 30 passengers. Tho following report of the passage was ex tracted from the log-book, " The Fontenaye took crew and passenger from Blackwell basin on VTonday, December 10. and was towed down the river by the steam tug. Anchored at the powder ground same day, and took on board 800 kegs of powder, leaving again in tow of the tug on Tautsiay, the 13th. The pilot left the ship next morning, and she got away with a moderate westerly breeze, which lasted some time. Passed' Portland Lisht and Start point on the 18th December. Exchanced signals witn the slii-o Lord of the Isles, and was in company with several other vessels. Crossed the Equator on Tneseay, Jannarv Isth. in longtitude 26deg. lOseoi. On the following day. spoke the ship John Rennie, Jfrom London to Melbourne, in latitude 2deg. 063ec. S., lragtitude, 27deg. iO-:ecs. W. Also spoke the ship Loch Ray, on January 31st. 49 days out from London to Auck land, In latitude -lOdeg. 02secs., S., lonsrti tude, 12deg- oGsecs. Passed the meredian ol the Cape of Good Hope on Sun day, February 10th. The Three Kings were si -iited on Monday last, and since that time the vess 1 has had light winds. The weather during the whole passage has been fair, no very bad weather having been experienced, in fact we may say she has hal a fine weather passaere. The Fontenaye is a fine iron ship, of 634 tons, and comes consigned to Messrs Cruickshank and Co. The vessel comes into harbour in a very clean condition, and this reflects the highest credit upon the skipper—Captain Taylor. TMs is the second voyage which the Fontenaye has made to this port, she having been here about four year 3 ago. The following is a list of the passengers:—Mr and Mrs P. Crane, Percy Crane, Ctocil Crane, Mary Crane, Mr and Mrs Smelt, Mr and Mrs Baird, Mrs Spence, Misses J. C. Spence, J- P. Spence. E. Spence, E. Maison, M. McCliiron. G. Thorny- on, M. Douglas, Messrs A MaUetfc. W. Hill, T. Townsend, Herrett, J. Lambert, Mr and Mrs Corbes, Miss L. Corbes, Masters T. Corbes, H. Corbes, B. Corbes, Miss C. C Ji-bes. The Fontenaye anchored off the jSTorth Head to-nay, and \yill be taken over to the powder ground to-night to diS3harge her cacaro.

HHsTTEBBD [Inwards.— Wahapu, cutter, from tha Lake, with 600 bushels sand; Christina, schooner, from Russell, with 97 tons coal; Fire fly, schooner, from the Wade, with 2 sacks gum and 40,000 shingles, : Avon, cutter, from the Thames via Miranda, with furniture and effects. Ci/karkd Outwards.— Firefly, for the Wade, with "'0 packages sundries, an<i 6 sacks bone dust • li'anny Kelly, ketch, for East Coast, with groce: i-5 and stores; Avon, cutter, for Manga wai, V.- ■: h furniture and effects. The s wiooner Ellerton arrived in harbour to .dayfro!-! Oamaru, with a cargo of grain. The S' sooner Telegraph, Captain Doughty, leaves this evening for Wangapoua and East Coast Wt^; with a cargo of groceries, &c. The s.s. Wanaka leaves this afternoon for Tauranga and the South, with a general cargo end the following passengers: Dr and Mrs Hector. Mr Woodward, family, and servant; Mr and Mrs Scott, Mr and Miss Reeves, Mr and Mrs W«lsa, and family of six ; Mr and Mrs Gunn, Mr and Mr3 Robertson, Mr and Mrs Galloway, Mr and Mrs Kingston. Miss Good ; Messrs Colli3. WilsoD, Irvine, N. Harker, F. W. Jackson. Bettlehain. Hooper, Barber, Knight, Matthews. Leane, D. Fraser, H. M. White, R. Ait.ken, Keals, L. W. Eaton, Johnston.Foster. William?, Brookes, and Barrow. " The schooner William and Julia cleared at ■the Customs to-day for Guam. It is probable she will proceed to Noumea, New Caledonia. The schooner Elizabeth Conway left for Nanier early this morning. The s s. Rowena left last evening for Mercury Bar and Tauranga with passengers and cargo. jjgjThe s.s. Hauraki leaves for Waitara this after- Trie schooner Atalanta from Waitara, arrived at Manukau Heads to-day, with a general cargo. A schooner has been signalled all nay, but she had not made the harbour when we went to press. She will, no doubt, be the Ryno, from the If.laTVjS. The bri^ Nile cloared at the Customs to-day for Koklamra, with a cargo consisting of 13 bags DOtatoea, 20 bags flour, 6 tons biscuits, 10 bags biscuits. She i 3 to load with timber.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Napier, this day. The s.s. Rotorua arrived at the Spit 'at eight o'clock this morning. New Plymouth, this day. "The 5.3. Taiaroa arrived from Onehungu early this morning.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Matt,s will Close as Undkb:- For Thames, this day, at 3,30 p.m.; and to morrow, at 4 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. For Waiheke and Coromandel, per Argyle,

to-morrow, at 2.30 p.m. For Waiwera, Mahuranga, Matakana, Manga wai "Waipu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per A.nnie Milbank, on Saturday next, at 10 a.m. For G-isoorne, per Go-ahead, on Saturday next,

For Russell and Kawa Kawa, per Hawea, on

Monday next, at 2 p.m. For Russell, "Wangaroa, and Mongonui, per lona, on Monday next, at 4 p.m. For Whitianga, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per . Rowena, on Monday next, at 4 p.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Taranaki, on Tuesday next, at 10.55 a.m. Per 5.3. Hawea, on Thursday, 28th instant,_as follows :— „ swraasS For India, China, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 2 p.m. For Tauranga. Gi3horne, Naper, Southern Provinces, Australian Colonies, United King dom, via Suez aud Southampton (for letters specially addressed), at 3 p.m. For London, via Brindisi, and late letters lor Southern Provinces and Melbourne, at 3.15 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 1.30 p.m. Should a later oppor tunity offer supplementary mails ,wiU be for warded. * _ For Australian Colonies, per Rotorua, on Tues-

day, 2nd April, at 1 p.m. P«*r s.s. City of Sydney, on Tuesday, April 2nd' oc follows * For Sau'dwich Inlands, United States of Aine'-ica, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 3 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent ot Europe at 3 p.m. • For money orders, registered letters and newspapers, at 1,30 p.m. Late letters bearing an extra f«e of sixpence in addition to the post age will be received by the Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

BIRTH.

HBWETT.—On the 17thMarch, at the Criterion Hotel, Cambridge, the wife of Mr. Edward Hewett of a son.

MARRIAGE.

HUNTER—HALYDAY.—On March 13th, at Pitt-street Wesleyan Church, by the Rev. vv . J. Williams, Ashley John Hunter, to Lillie, second daughter of James Halyday, Grey street, Auckland. NATHAN—DAVIS.—On the 20th March, at the Synagogue. Auckland, N.Z., by the Rev. M. Elkin, Arthur Hyam. third son of the late A. J. Nathan, of Launceston, Tasmania, to Melinda, second daughter of the late Charles

Davis, of this city. „,,,»• , t CAMERON—SPICER.—On the 20th March, at St. Sepulchre's Church, Auckland, by the Rev. B T. Dudley, Alexander Thomas, son o±. tne late Lieutenant Spencer Cameron, 37th Regt. Madras Grenadiers, to Harriett Mary Frances, S?eldest daughter of Mr. A. H. Spicer, Carleton S'Gore Road.

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

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 1878.

Eiias cstie that lacks.sssktance, fee wrong tiaat needs seslstssa* Use fetuva ia t£»e distasta,

The Counties Act was very qaietly .shelved again by the Eden County Council yester day, and the division of tli3 money in tho proportion of two-fifths to the highway districts abutting on the city, and three fifths to the outlying districts, leaves the Council nothing more to do before its final dissolution in November next. This apportionment, adopted last year, placed a very handsome sum in the hands of each of the highway districts within the County— about which, by the way, very little has been said—and last night the representa tives of suburban districts again fought unsuccessfully for equal shares. It is, oi course, needless to say that if the Act had been in operation no balance would have remained for division, but, as we have frequently shewn, special taxation would be impera tive to cover the County expenditure. To establish this more indubitably, and ex hibit the insincerity of the cry that the working of the Act is necessary to secure maintenance of main roads, a word or two may be said on Mr Ireland's proposition last night; and we ask ratepayers to give their attention to the argument. The Great South and other roads specified in Mr Ireland's motion were formerly maintained by the Provincial Government, and are out side the boundary of any highway district. It is complained that the General Government has neglected these roads, and that County gowrnrnen is necessary to keep them in repair. But the Counties Act provides machinery by which roads so situated may be' attended to under the direct supervision of the County Council without bringing the Act into operation. Under clause 68 of the Act, power is given to the Councils of Counties in which the Act is not working to vote any sum out of the County revenues for works in districts where there are no boards, and to direct under whose superintendence the works shall be carried out. Mr Ireland's propo sition was to vote the sum required to put these main roads into a thorough state of repair, and appoint four County Councillors to carry out the work. The Council, without bringing tho Act into operation, has really in its own hands the control of the main roads. It so happens, however, that the amount required for these works, even if let by contract, and without the addition of County salaries, is equal to the whole County revenue, less unavoidable deductions; so Mr Ireland estimated, and we believe his calculations are not far astray. It might have been sup posed that, unless the professed solicitude for the main roads within the County |waS a sham, Councillors would have gladly availed themselves of the powers in the Act to provide amp;y for their maintenance. But the result of tne motion shewed that when there was no chance of working the Act in all its glory, no prospect of billets, or the exercise of large powers and patronage, every Councillor preferred to secure as much money as he possibly could for the local highway Boards, and let the main roads take their chance. A deputatonwas, however, arranged to endeavour to interest the General Go vernment in the welfare of the neglected children of the County, who have i.o one to care for them; and we hope it will prove successful. The tolls collected on the main roads at least should be exclusively devoted to their repair.

We confess we are at a loss to understand why the Karaugahape and Arch [I ill Boards should be so greatly exercised over the drainage of the Mount Eden pond, and should, dog-in-the-manger-like, stand in the w*y of an improvement essential to tho health of an adjoining district. That this pond has become a nuisance of a mo.^t serious character everyone acquainted with the place will admit. The water that has collected there within the last seven or eight years has become the receptacle of foul drainage from various quarters, which, in the present state of things, it is^ impossible to trace to its source ; and this has not tended to improve the flavour of a stagnant pond. That the accumulation should be drained away is certain ; and it then becomes merely a question of engineering skill in which direction the drainage should be taken. Mr J. Stewart, C.E., after examining the place, has reported in favour of tapping the pond by a drain connecting it with the dee]) gully on the other side of the Great North Road, which runs by Arch Hill to the sea. Moreover, the Government, for railway considerations, were prepared to spend the money to carry out the work— a peculiarly favourable condition for its speedy execution. Suddenly, when there is every prospect of the nuisance being speedily abated, Karangahapc and Arch Hill appear upon the scene, and say, "You are not going to carry your drainage through our districts." Now, if the proposed scheme involved a peimaneut nuisance, the objec tion would be valid, but, seeing that at the most a few days will run the pond com pletely dry, and enable the Eden Terrace trustees to deal with any creators of a local nuisance, the objection is, to say the least of it, unneighbourly. There is a large flow of water down the Arch Hill gully, and if the pond were tapped ia wet weather, we see no reason to fear the slightest nuisance in consequence. The only reason we have heard urged in favour of the action taken by the combined Boards, is a danger of the Eden Terrace drainage, and particalarly that from the breweries, being permanently diverted down the Arch Hill gully, con taminating it from top to bottom. In the first place, however, it has not been shewn that the nuisance ol the pond arises from the breweries ; and if it should prove to be so when the pond is drained and any deleterious matter flowing from the breweries can be detected, the Public Health Act contains ample powers to compel the abatement of any nuisance arising from that source. We would put it to those who have endeavoured to stop the work whether their opposition is not a little factious. If prevented from draining the pond, what are the Eden Terrace trustees to do ? They cannot, in its present condition, fill up the hollow aud force the water over adjoining properties. Moreover, provision must be made for the natural drainage of the place in winter. Wo would suggest that as opposition may be the means of fur nishing the Government with a pretext for backing out of their part of the arrangement, the Arch Hill and Karangahape trustees should confer with those of Eden Terrace in a friendly spirit, with a view to the removal of all obstacles to the abatement of a nui sance which threatens not only to poison the atmosphere of Eden Terrace, but cany disease into the adjoining districts.

The Diver, The Queen, The Painter, Satirist, Mikado, Star, Adelaide, Barmaid, Signora, Habena, and Swiveller, are scratched for the Sydney Cup. During the rain at Echuca swarms of insects resembling flying ants darkened the air, and fell in great numbers. A cricket match will be played in the Domain on Saturday afternoon between the employes of Messrs Fiaser and Tinne and the Auckland Railway. Messrs Firth, Taylor, Watts, Jackson, Barsvow, O'Sul livan, Robertshaw, Laury, Wright, Cleave, McLeod and Bird, will form the Railway team, and Messrs Carr, Weston, Testro, Fraser, Lenelliatre, Beetham, Rack straw, Menzies, Calligan, Cavanagh, and McGregor, the firm of Messrs Fraser and Tinne. W^M

The Premier received a vote of confidence at Ashburton. Mr Rees will lecture at Dunedin in aid of the benevolent institutions, on "The lost tribesoflsrael." _

Messrs Gilrner Bros., of the West Coast, have purchased the Empire Hotel, Wellington, for £7,000, and the adjoining stores for a like sum.

We understand that a cricket match has been arranged to take place on Saturday next in the Domain between the " Law" and the " Banks." Considerable interest is being manifested ia the contest, from the fact that the challenge to play sent by the "Law" to the "Banks" assumed that the match could only result in one way, namely in the defeat of their opponents ; while the " Banks," judging by'the finished cricket displayed by them in their late game among themselves, in their acceptance of the challenge expressed themselves as being equally confident of success. The " Law" intend practising every afternoon this week, so as to leave nothing undone to insure the termination to the game they have already prognosticated. The " Hanks" we are told are in splendid form.

We have received a letter from Mr Samuel Atkins, of Levuka,Fiji. stating that he fre quently receives letters from working men in Auckland, inquiring what scope there is for them in Polynesia. He desires to cau tion " any pgainst taking a step which they are afterwards to regret,"and adds :—" The fact is, the labour market in Fiji is already supplied, and although there are signs of approaching improvement, it has not as yet arrived. The artizans and mechanics here are frequently outof em ployment. Wages are nominally high, 16s per day for tradesmen who must be good men, but this rate cannot always be got, and there are a great many handy men who work for much less, sometimes as low as 8s or 10s ; while some of the natives aro often employed for rough work at from 2s to 5s per day. Rent is very high, (four times the price that it is in Auckland) and provisions dear, meat (poor stuff generally) being from 9d to Is per pound, and bread Sd the 31b. loaf, with allother necessaries in proportion. When to thisis added that owing to thoheat of the climate, it is sometimes impossible to work in the middle of the day unless under cover, I think your readers will admit that this is no paradise for the working man." At Paeroa, during the visit of the Hon. the Native Minister, the subject of the opening of laud for settlement under the homestead system was discussed. Regard ing the Broomhall Settlement, Mr Sheehan informed Mr Newman that the Government would be no party to the repudiation of any prior arrangement between the colony and Mr Broomhall. If the latter fulfilled the conditions of his bargain the Government would also adhere to theirs.

in reply to a deputation from the Waikato County Council, re the Whangamarina Bridge, the Defence Minister said the Go vernment would havethe structure inspected and reported upon at once with a view to making it safe for traffic He also promised to have the question of the Sheep Inspector's salary, which certainly, seemed too small, considered.

The conceit in aid of the funds of the Roman Catholic Church, at Cambridge is fixed for the 22nd proximo, and will be held in the district hall of that township.

Caprain Huttonis lecturing at tie Sydney University.

The battery and band of the Artillery Volunteers will assemble this evening in the Drill-shed for their monthly inspection, in undress uniform, under command of Cap tain Burns. At the close of the inspection, a special meeting will be held to consider the celebration of tne twentieth anniversary of the corps.

Mr W. J. Cawkwcll intends to offer him self as a director of the Kuranui Hill Gold mining Company at the next meeting of the company, to'be held on the 2 fJth inst. St. Patrick's Day was celebrated with all due rejoicing? at Coromandel on Mon day. There were sports of all sort 3, and some very fair horse-racing, the result of which ne append. Handicap Hurdle Race : Kelly's Czar, 10st, 1. Pony Race: Mills'* Rakau. Ost, 1. Coromaudel Cup : Buckland's Firetail, list. 71bs., 1. Miners' Purse : Buckland's Gipsy, 9st. 41bs., 1. Consolation Race : Mills' Hurricane, lOst. 41bs., 1.

Mr Carini, Mercury Bay Hotel, desires us to correct a mistake which appeared in the report of his evidence given at the in quest at Mercury Bay on the remains of William Wilson. Mr Carini did not say that want of money had caused deceased to drown himself, but that he had heard de ceased speak about money owing to him. At a meeting of tho Waikato County Council held on Tuesday last copies of the proposed Fencing and' Sheep Bills to be introduced next session, were laid upon the table. The Chairman reported that the Colonial Secretary had granted £150 a year, to date from July last, to be paid to Mr Runciman as Sheep Inspector. The follow ing resolution was also passed unanimously : "It being important, in the interests of the Boi?.-. |~-h, that a correct account of the pro cecLiigs of this Council be placed before the ratepayers, and the reports as given, hitherto, in the ' Waikato Times ' not being so, this Council resolves that a letter be written to the proprietor of that paper, calling his attention to the matter."

The second days' racing at Greymouth resulted as follows :—Gold field's "Handicap : Bank, 1 ; Jasper, 2; Native, 3. Seven started. It was won by half a length. Grey Valley Stakes Handicap : Elfin King, 1 ; Grey Momus, 2; Native, 3. The bet ting was 3 to 2 on Elfin, 5 to 3 against the others. After a splendid race it was won by half a length. Novel Race : Rover, 1. FiveSstarted. Consolation Stakes: Septimus, 1.

In another column will be found an advertisement calling a meeting of share holders in the Tookey Tribute Company to pass a resolution to wind up the company voluntarily. We are informed that, this is being done so that somewhat extended powers may be obtained than the company possess under their present memorandum of assdeiation. A new «ompany is being formed to take its place, with the same name, the same capital, the same number of shares of the same value as the present, so that shareholders will retain exactly the same number of shares and interest in the tribute that they now have. A rumour obtained circulation in town yesterday, to the erlcct that Messrs W. and T. Brassey and Dacre had gone to Wanga proua, and were missing. It was further stated that the cutter in which they had gone down was ashore at Wangaproua. We have made inquiries iuto the circum stances to-day, and we are informed on good authority that the gentlemen supposed to be missing are at present living at Wangaproua, and are therefore not lost. The cutter went ashore several nights ago, while they were sleeping on the land. The Jews of Melbourne have sent £400 for the relief of theL' countrymeu in Turkey.

It is proposed to establish a community of Jesuits in Sydney. At a cricket match.at Ngaruawahia the other day, Mr R. N. Cox performed the feat of bowling three wickets with conse cutive balls, and taking four wicketsin one over. Subsequently the Ngaruawahia Club subscribed for a new bell-topper to be pre sented to the champion bowler. A social tea-meeting will be held this evening, in the Ponsonby Wesleyan Church in celebration of the anniversary.

A very pleasant evening was spent in the Masonic Hall, Onehnnga, by those who attended the opening night of the dancing class, under the management of Mr I. Casey and Mr Jno. Eastwood. The Hibernian Band, under the conductorship of Mr J. P. Lonergan, was present, and added very much to the attraction of this select dance. Mr P. Casey officiated as Master of Ceremonies in a very creditable manner. The management of the dancing class in tend giving moDthly dances, and tor which they have secured the services of the Hibernian Band. The following is the vote ot attendance at the Court of Petty Sessions, on Tuesday next, the 26th inst. :- Messrs A. K. Taylor, (chairman) T. Henderson, G. Yon der Heyde, J. H. Home, E. Isaacs, G. B John son, T. B. Kenderdine, W. H. Kenny, G. S. Kissling, I). M. Luckie, K. B. Lusk, J. May, T. Macffiylane, B. Mac Lean, C. 0. McMillan, H. D. Morpeth. Mr Hanna, of the firm of Messrs Henius and Hanna, photographers, recently visited the Hot Lakes and geyser districts of Rotor na and Rotomahana, for the purpose of obtaining views of those remarkable natural wonders, which have now gained a world-wide celebrity. The result of these labours is ottered by the firm in a set of sixteen very fine and well-chosen views of the terraces, lakes,, and other striking features of the district. The photographs are of good size—lo by 12—and are remark able for the judgment exercised in the choice of positions from which to exhibit the wonderful scenery of the district in the most striking light. Some of the terrace views are particularly good, bringing out that singular formation and delicate fret work, which specially excites the astonish ment and admiration of all visitors. We may select-for special mention the scene, '•' Otukapaurangi at sunset," which has rarely been excelled in colonial landscape photo graphy. All the views are remarkably faithful, and executed in very superior style. The collection will form a valuable addition to the pictoral representations which have aided so largely in spreading far and wide a knowledge of one feature of New Zealand scenery which has no parallel in any known part of the world. Hundreds of these photographs are forwarded by colonists to their friends in the United Kingdom, and no more suitable present can be chosen.

The third' anniversary of the Loyal Orange Lodge, of Otahuhti, will be cele brated by a grand ball on the evening of the 27th*inst. Mr Impey's City Band will be in attendance, and supply the music. A good deal of interest is being manifested by the settlers, who axe hopefully looking forward to an event of no common occur rence in Otahuhu. A man named Edward Quarterinan, who met with an accident on the Chris tchurch railway, has successfully undergone ampu tation of both legs. To the Editor : Sir,—Will you kindly inform me if Mr Woithington has power to .dismiss a boy from his school for being half-an-hour late, and that through no fault of his own.—J.G., Victoria-street. [Certainly not! Late attendance at school is to be deprecated, and in every instance where unpunctuality cannot be avoided, the pupil should be Jfurnished with a note from his parents ; but no school committee should allow a master to dismiss a boy from school without the express sanction of the committee, —Ed. E.S.]

, --The ollicial inquiry into the cause of the late five at the Brewery of Messrs Suiter and Co., Eden Terrace, which was an nounced to take place yesterday, before Dr Philsoii, was postponed; but the date of the nquiry has not been !ixed.

CABLEGRAMS.

Latest War News.

eeuter's special telegrams)

England's Demands

Russia Proposes Evacuating" by- Sea,

LONDON, March 20.

Sir Stafford Northcote, replying in the House of Commons to a question, said that if an agreement was attained respecting what England required, the Congress may meet at the end of March. The Russians wish to embark their troops homeward from Bojukdcre, a seaport on the Bosphorus. The Forte objects.

[SPECIAL, TO THE .MELBOURNE "ARGUS."]

Serious Faction Fights at Toronto.

Discussion on Colonial Questions

LONDON, March 19.

Faction rioting has taken place at Torouto. A hundred and fifty persons were seriousty injured. At the Colonial Institute, Sir Julius Vogcl read a paper on " New {Zealand and the South Seas in relation to the Empire." The principal speakers were {Sir James Fergusson, and Messrs. Torrens and Casey.

AUSTRALIAN.

(From our Special Correspondent)

THE MELBOURNE CLUSIS

COMMERCIAL,

SYDNEY, this day. The Assam has arrived at Albany with a large number of passengers. The crisis in Melbourne continues. There is a desire to shun compromise. New Zealand potatoes, £5 10s. Mauritius advices favour holders of the finest yellow eristals.

(reuter's telegrams.)

Arrival of the Assam.

MELBOURNE, Thursday. Tho Assam mails arrived at Albany last night. She has a heavy passenger.

The Political Crisis,

The Council Expected to Succumb.

MELBOURNE, March 21. The Assembly sat a short time, and adjourned until Tuesday next. Mr Berry stated he had every reason to believe that the Council would pass the Payment of Members Bill. If it did the Government would take prompt steps to pass through a fresh Appropriation Bill, and prorogue. The statement was cheered.

The Council is still discusssing Sladen's motion for an address to the Governor, which is certain to be carried.

Flour, £11 10s to £11 12s 6d. 5s 4d to 5s sd. Sailed : Taiarua.

Wheat,

MR HARDING'S CONCERT

The complimentary concert to Mr Charles Harding will be given this evening in the Choral Hall, chiefly by members of the Choral Society. A high-class programme has been arranged for the occasion, divided into two parts, including overtures and musical pieces from the works of the great composers. Ballads will be sung by Mrs Mitchell and Miss Edger; also by Messrs Harding, Angel, Harker, and Burnham. We learn that every facility will be given by the North Snore Ferry Company for the return of visitors to their homes at the North Shore at the close of the conceit. Carriages will also be waiting outside the hall. As :he evening is likely to. be flue, the hall will be filled, and a most enjoyable conceit produced. A number of citizens have promised their patronage, and the officers of H.M. ship Nymphe will honor the conceit with their presence.

MEETING OF CREDITORS OF LEWIS

A meeting of creditors m the estateof Lewis Bros, was held at 3 o'clock this.after noon at the office of Mr George, solicito. Present : Messrs T. Macfarlane, H«J*th, Nathan, E. Isaacs, Stevenson manager National Bank, manager Bank or JNew South Wales, Horton, and othera. Mr Nathan was voted to the chair, mi Stevenson having declined. " Mr Hughes made a statement ol tne liabilities of its firm. He said the firnil had not been able to carry out the arrangement n London through their not being able to iettle with Levy and Goldwater. s The Bank of New South^Waks.held the bills, and the trustee held the other docu ments. The arrangement to m«et the monies to pay the first dividend had fallen through. Mr Lewis, was, therefore, node the necessity of wiring home tostop.ship ments, and to appoint a meeting in Londojh ask why the money was not sent. Since tnen Messrs. Lewis had deemed to have a meeting in Auckland. There were a numbe « creditors in Auckland, but only two credi«>» were represented by Messrs Hesketh ana MacCormick. The statement of liabilities to the I ith Ivlarch, £$A5 2 unsecured in Auckla'.^^ and yd in.England. The creditors in Auckland numbered 17, of which the princi pal were Brown Barrett Clark and Sons, £426, E. Isaacs ; L. D. Nathan, ; South British, £203 ; H. Isaacs, 2,259. The estate in Auckland amounted to Bs. 3d. Property in Queen-street, and sample stocks, ; samples, ; bonded goods, Albert-street, totals, ;£i 1)554 5 s- 6d. Office furniture, safes, etc.. ,£400; shares in Meat Company, London, /60; office furniture, London, £60; total, Land in Wanganui, £200 ; lease hold allotment in Eden Crescent, rented at 255. per week, ; creditors fully secured —National Bank, The bank held bills for ,£14,159 5 security in land and stock in Queen-street, £1,627 j:gbills, bonds, and goods, valued at over £6,000 ; bonded goods, re Levy & Gold water, £510 : total, £23,115. The secured Queen-street and Aibert-street properties were valued at £8,000 ; National Bank total, £27,612.155. 6d. ; Land Com pany holds £3,500; E. and H. Isaacs hold bonded warrants valued {it 19s. ; T. and S. Morrin, £128 13s. 7d. ; total, £28,925. The total securities held by creditors was £30,000. A draft had been sent to London for £3,000, and £2,000 -Still remained undis tributed.

After considerable discussion, the meeting was adjourned until Wednesday next, at the same hour and place ; and the following Com mittee was appointed to examine into the accounts and estate, and bring up a report on that occasion : Messrs. A. Isaacs, L. D. Nathan, and Stevenson. During the course of the discussion, Mr Stevenson said that it appeared that the estate would only pay 7s 6d in the £.

The governor's Visit to the Thames.

[BY TELEGRAPH],

(From our oavu Correspondent.)

GRAHAMSTOWH, this day,

H.M.s. Nymphe, with His Excellency the Governor and suite, the Hou. Colonel Whitmore, and the Hon. J. Sheehan on board, arrived hero at four o'clock yester day, and anchored three miles off Graham stown. The p.s. Enterprise went off this morning and brought His Excellency on shore. He was received at the end of the wharf by the Harbour Board, the chairman of which read an address, which Avas replied to. The Vice-Regal party then proceeded to the shore end of the wharf, where the Borough and County Councils were waiting, besides about 500 citizens and natives. The Volunteers, Naval Brigade, and Cadets, formed a guard of honor. The Town Coun cil presented a handsomely illumi nated address. The Governor replied, and expressed his pleasure at being so heartily welcomed. A procres^on of carriages was formed, the Scottish brass band leading. The first carriage was occu pied by tho Marquis of Norruanby and his aide-de-camp, the Mayor, and the County Chairman. The other nine carriages were filled by members of local bodies, the officers of the Nymphe, and the press. The pro cession proceeded through the principal streets, which were gaily decorated with bunting. A number of the large buildings were decorated with evergreens, ami several arches were erected across the streets. At Grey-stree bridge, the County Council read an address to which the Governor replied. The party were then driven to Kiri Kiri where hun ttreds of natives welcomed His Excellency. Here also the County authorities had erected a magnificent arch, from which fiags were flying, &c. • The Marquis of Norman by opened the County road to Ohinemuri, and made an excellent speech. The County Council entertained the Governor, the Hon J. Sheehan, the Hon Col. Whitmore, and officers of the Avar vessel, and members of the local bodies at a dinner, which Avas spread in a pavilion at Parawai Gardens.

His Excellency will hold an undress levee at four o'clock, and will inspect, in company Avith Colonel Whitmore, the Volunteers of the Thames.

A banquet takes place this evening, and Avill be a grand success. .The- native elite have tendered a ball this evening to the vice-regal party.

The Governor and suite return to Auck land in the Nymphe to-morrow morning.

The Accident at Aratapu.

THREE LIVES LOST.

(From our own Correspondent.)

DARGAVILLE, March 19. About half-past live on Saturday evening last a rumour Was circulated in town that the Ada Pearl, a hoat built by Mr Frank Dalton for the sailing race in the Regatta, had capsized, and that three out of four of her crew had beeu drowned, viz. : Messrs. Henry and William Dalton, shoemakers . and Mr Hawkins, baker, all of this town ship. Alas ! the news proved but too true, for on the arrival of the s.s. Tangihua, who on her way up had recovered the boat, your correspondent obtained the following particulars-:—At the time of the accident, the boat, there being no wind, was drifting, with her centre-board down, a little below Jock's Point, about a mile this side of Aratapu, when suddenly without a moment's warning she heeled over and filled, precipitating the occupants into the water, who then struck out for the shore. Mr Frank Dalton, the only sur vivor, made an heroic attempt to save his brother, but failed, as when he fetched him up the third time to the surface life was and had been for some minutes extinct, and there was no hope of saving him. The other two had meanwhile been swimming for the shore to all appearance strongly, and when Frank passed them he told them when they came into the ripple to turn on their backs. He then thought all was right, and after again encouraging them, and knowing they were both good swimmers, struck out for the bank, which he ieached in a thorough state of exhaustion ; not beiug able to extricate himself from the deep mud, he would have been suffocated but for timely help. It appears the others must have gone down shortly after he left them. The accident was caused by the centre-board, which was let down to the full length, having caught broadside on to a reef along side of which there is some 20 feet or water, and th^ strong ebb tide running at the time caused the boat to keel over at once and fill, throwing all four meu into the deep water; the spot is almost in the middle of the river, which is three-quarters of a mile wide there. Great sympathy was felt for the two widows, especially for Mrs Dalton, who

poor lad y> ju» only been married aW •l 1 months,' and is enciente. She was f®* M considerable time in a very TO p a W. condition, but thanks to the aniS?"" if attention of Df Norton, was S^S I much improved. It is now hoped tW y " 1 very serious effects will eventuate from , «J° V B serious shock she received. It ia hlv fte i Mr Hawkins' life was insured fr?^ I considerable sum ;ifso it will be a a I help to his also disconsolate widow Br£?' 1 J. M. Dargaville, on hearing the W* 1 wished the regatta, which is to take itf' 4 I on Tuesday, to be postponed; but on* : W committee meeting being held it was font.* I impossible to do so, as many visitors T!i M' a band are coming from Auckland I 5 I also from Whangavei and other places 1 I' whom it would be impossible to forwawr ? word in time ; further, a great outlay hi I been made by entering competitors am? many have been under active training therefore, much as the committee wonli I have wished to do so, they found it ontnf I their .power. Harry Stanaway has W I searching for the bodies up to the present ¥: time without success. This lamentable |: accident in our midst has thrown quite !: damper on our community. I forgot+* §£ mention that Mr Watkius, our school" I' master, was to have gone in the boat bnt ? was too late ; being a crack swimmer,'ft k I probable he might have succeeded in * saving at least one of the poor fellows who 1 were lost. A party went clown yesterday I (Monday) with grapnels and dynamite iS I after spending many hours' fruitlessly ! failed in discovering any of the bodies! ' The party was got up by Frank Dalton whose position everyone pities, as he is ! deservedly respected in the district, a keel boat for the constable in charge of this station is absolutely required. He may have to go out in an emergency, and "; ■• where would he be in a fiat-bottomed I cranky arrangement, which they dienify I with the name of a skifF on this river i FURTHER PARTICULARS. I A private letter received in town diffog i | fvom the above account inasmuch as it ■ I states that the centre-board struck on a snag \ |' as the tide was running out. The boat was | turned round by the current, and seemed | to bu dragged under. She sank withiatwo I' minute.-;, and the occupants had barely time I to get out of their seats. Frank Dalton did I his utmost to save his younger brother, -who • I appeared to be the first exhausted, and ■ sank several times; each time Frank Dalton | dived for him, and got his head up, but the . I third time the poor young fellow was dead. £ Frank Dalton then attempted to keep the ll body afloat, but it was so heavy as to drag ¥. him under, and he was obliged to relin-' [I quish his hold. He then swam after ti^ other two, and encouraged them to keep up, but they got into a strong eddy. He directed them to throw themselves on theft v bucks, doing the same himself; when he got: .■ over the rough piece of water he looked>i back, but the others were no longer in sights - having probably been dragged down by there clothes and boots. Frank was not yet half way to the shore, but he managed to partly atrip himself, and succeeded in reach- ll ing the shore with great difficulty. The I bodies have not yet ben recovered.

POLICE COURT.—This Day

(Before T. Willcox, Esq., J.P.) THE OLD STORY. John Leonard, a melancholy old manf pleaded guilty to being drunk yesterday. Having been convicted of this offence ; several times lately, he was sent to gaol for! seven days. ANOTHER. Wm. Tapel, a wretched old creature, who ! kept up a perpeiual muttering whilst in the M box, was charged with oeing drunk yester- | j day. He denied the imputation, -which however, was proved by two constables, j I Fined 5s and costs. This was all the bussiness.

CORRESPONDENCE.

We have an immense amount of corres- j pondence on hand, with no prospect of i clearing it off except by materially reduc-'_ ! ing its proportions. j Suburban Municipalities.—"New- i tonian" writes with the object of proving that the formation of a municipality is the most advantageous for the ratepayers of Karangahape, Arch Hill, and Eden Terrace. - He shews that by becoming a borough the districts would receive: Publicans' Licenses, £270 per annum ; brewers' ditto, £40 ; cab, carriage, express, dray, and hawkers' licenses, £35. Fines, &c, which now gO^S to the Consolidated Revenue, £10. Tot2jp| £355. He proceeds to shew that reckoningsl| £110 as the present cost of administration for the three highway districts, which is exclusive of engineering, stationery, adver tising, offices, etc,, and estimating the cost ■ of working the borough at £240 (the items!! of which he gives in detail) the ".'ratepayers\j would still "be gainers by £225 over the present system ; irrespective of the 2000 acres of land, granted to boroughs. Of ' this, our correspondent says he is informed.;1 that the land taken up by Auckland and M Paruell is worth £10 an acre, and reckoned; § at five per cent should realise £1000 a year. The proposed annexation to the city, our correspondent believes, would result in the total neglect of suburban roads. Tobacco Culture. —"Cuba" inquires N the time to cut the leaves of tobacco. It is /g) when the seed pod begins to ripen, and the leaves to change colour. The leaves are then hung up to dry until ready to be i pressed for use. Ejden County.—" Newmarket" writes ; with reference to Mr Ireland's signature to the requisition, to the Chairman of the Eden County Council, to considei the bringing of the Act into operation. Wo ; are informed that the circular was simply signed to afford an opportunity for consider ing the question. Hospital Management.—Mr Thomas Carrall writes returning thanks for the very kind treatment he received in the . Auckland Hospital, especially from Dr Philson. He says he had been suffering _ for four years from a sore on his face, and consulted three medical men without . ascertaining the nature of his complaint. About a fortnight ago, upon coming up from Mangapai and consulting Dr Philson, he was at once told that' he was suffering | from cancer, and an operation was success- >: fully performed which he believes has restored him to perfect health. Eden Terrace Pond : Sir,—lt appears to me that no one dare speak as to the . actual cause of the above nuisance, and in consequence it is proposed to lay the cost of drainage on the public purse. The real and only cause, I. believe to be the washings ; from the breweries. This,containing yeast, ferments, and slinks the wholeplace around. | One of these breweries is now no more, and were the other removed the nuisance re ferred to would, I am convinced, remove also, and never until then will any drainage v ; effect it.—l am, &c,, Eden Terrace. A Plea for Sick Prisoners.— Ex-Screw complains that one of the subordinate ~ officials of the gaol often interferes to pre- >i| vent unfortunate prisoners who are re^v '" sick from {[receiving the benefit of !#• Philson's advice. He thinks this should not be permitted. " , Parnell Assessment.—We have ha» on hand for some time a letter by Mr Sadler on the Parncll Assessment, l"c ji

topic is now rather out of date. The f^m and substance of the epistle is that _tne old man", has been, in Mr Sadler's opinion, | rather unfairly criticised— his emoluments : being anything buc handsome. Yet loot- . ing to the growing importance of sxn^*^ onr correspondent considers that a thorough scientist should be engaged i°r the engineering work. •?* Piano for the Asylum.—"Pro Publico" writes stating that at the late cus- ■?. astrous fire at our Lunatic Asylnm thepian° for the use of the female patients was dcs- - troyed. Since then it has not been replaced, a He thinks that as the Colonial Secretary,^ ~, now in Auckland, it should be brougos directly under his notice. If, however, tne Governnieut are not willing to proviae . another instrument, our correspondent sugyp gests that lists should be left atour principai public institutions in aid of this very niuwi needed requisite.

SYENING STAR THURSDAY MARCH 81. I**B.



m- CITY HATjL ■«« _t! IUIINISHIING ARCADE. NEW GOODS JUST UNPACKED, AND QUITE NEW. CRETONNES, Large Lot New Colours and New Designs. ("New Brussels, from 4/9 « n r,,,ma J New Tapestry, from 2/1 CAKP& Ita. •< New Kidderminster, from 3/2 (.New Hearthrugs, from 6/6 /New Shape Walnut Suites I New Reps for do. For thr , Green and Crimson Silk Rep ) £ 8 DRAWING--^ Black and Gold, do. fOjS KOOM. Fawn and Gold do. ji-^g New Pattern Walnut Tables Inlaid Fiower Stands /12 feet wide, 3/ per yard irf.OOR- 3 „ 2/ CLOTHS. 1 Oil Canvas, /9 ~ I Linoleum, all widths Ha:'cl<ome White Twist and Bullion Fringe s, for Bed Hangings . Handsome White & Fancy Belgian Damask, Turkish Towels, very large size, 1/3 and 1/9 Superior Fancy Oil Baizes, for tables Immense Variety in Ladies Dress Buttons. E'oUoway, Gariiek U Oraawell, CJ T V H ALL AIiCAD E, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. CAUiVSI' FACTORY .. Lobnb-stbebt oTUPEI{!O!J. SAMPLES of Sydney and O Kew Zealand Maizs, Tartarian and. Potato Oats Table Potatoes, Flour Oatmeal, Bran, PhTr'.s Barley. Jhaff, Oilcake Coal, fto., fee, olway«o«vhand. —— fe CQ 0, (/! KfcSi-STrtKIST; AUCKLAND I



COUNTRY EDITIONS i-ÜBLISHBD AT 12.30 P.M. (For WAIKATO) AND AT 3.30 P.M. fTIHE TOWN EDITION of the,STAR is Published at the OfH.ce at 5 o'clock. AGRICULTURAL RISKS. THE NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY Is prepared to INSURE against FIRE— Agricultural Risks, Grain in Stook or Stack, and Steam Threshing Machines travelling from dlace to place. LOWEST CURRENT RATES. HENRy E. WILLIAMS, PONSONBY HIGHWAY DISTRICT. 10 CONTRACTORS. Tenders will be received at my office, Short- Knd-street, up < 0 4 o'clock p.m. on FRIDAY, 22nd March, 1878, for sundry Road Works in this District. Specifications, plans, &c, to be seen at the office of Mr. W. J. Dalton, District Engineer, Insurance Buildings, Q.ueen-street. By order of the^oard^ Ponsonby, 16th March, 1878. HER MAJESTY'S GAOL, AUCKLAND. Mateon Wanted. Apply, in person, with testimonials, at.the Gaoler's Office, at 2 p.m., on FRIDAY NEXT, the 22nd March instant. Q , BRIEN Governor . OTIC E. ■SiEfflSmu* ENTERPRISE Will make a Special Trip to the Thames TO NIGHT, leavingatU Manager< March 21, 1878. ~7Z~L 13ARQUE 'SEATOLLEK,' jaPljg^^ JL> FROM LONDON. i^paSS^^*' All Accounts and Claims against issHSSraS tne barque Scatoller must be ren dered to the undersigned, in duplicate, by four o'clock TO-MORROW(LMday), 22nd instant, or they cannot be recognised. As large quantities of Goods still remain on the Wharf, Consignees are requested to remove them at once, or they will bo stored at their risk and expense^ SHIPPING cO . (LIMITED), Agents. Auckland, 20th March, 1878. RUSHBttOOK AND OKIDGMAN, GENERAL DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, &.G., JUNCTION DSAPERY WAREHOUSE (Opposite the Army nd Navy Hotel), UPPER QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. five per cent. discount 16. IN THE £) ALLOWED ON ALL CASH PURCHASES OF 20s. AND UPWARDS. BON ED US T! BONEDU ; ST! BONEDUST! To Arrive, about the middle of February: 500 TONS BONEDUST, Consisting of Billyard's No. 1, Bell's i inch, inch, and Boneflour. „__,„_ _ ~_ ■ W. J. HURST & CO., 101, Queen-street. T& H. C O O X E • Have on Salic SONE OF THE LARGEST STOCKS OF |FURNITURE IN THE COLONY. Special Items:— DRAWING-ROOM SUITES WALNUT TABLES CARPE IS HEARTHRUGS LINOLEUM FLOORCLOTH IRON BEDSTEADS TOILET b LASSES CANE-SKATED CHAIRS TOILET-WARE MARBLE^TOP WASHSTANDS MATTRESSES FEATHER BEDS. _ A Small Shipment of CRETONNES and CASH MERES, New Patterns. All Goods at Lowest Ratks. delivered free. Liberal Discount to Cash Buyers. Furniture Showrooms .... 67. QUEEN-STREET Steam Cabinet Factory VICTORIA-STREET rpO AGRICULTURISTS & OTHERS W J. HURST ac 00. have on aalo the under mentioned Fertilizers, all of which have been proved to produce satisfactory results in this district. Experience teaclies that large and profitable returns can be relied on by a judicious and liberal use of them. The flattering Testi monials from leading Farmers justify W. J. Hurst & Co. in strongly commending them to every Agriculturist:— MALDEN ISLAND GUANO PERUVIAN GUANO MKXIOA.N do. BELLS BONIC FLOUR . ~ JandHnch HONJCOUBT BILLYARD'S No. 1 do. NITRATE OF1 SODA SULPHATE OB1 AMMONIA MURIATE OF POTASH SUPER-PiIOSPHATiC OF LIMIC. SALT, SULPHATE OF LIMB. In addition to the above, W. J. 11. & Co. are jrepared to supply special Chemical Manures for stimulating weak Corn Crops, and renovat ing Clover-sick Pastures, as well as the Potato and Mangold mixture that for the last two sea sons has attracted such favourable notice. Analysis, prices, and other particulars will l)« supplieil on application at tho Stores. W. J. HURST & CO., 101. Queen-streot. mHE PINES SCHOOL, EPSOM, con JL ducted bo- Mrs. Rackstra w.—Quarter Day? current year: l3t April, Ist July, Ist October Vacancies for Boariers. ____^______ «J3Both in flavour and effect Udolpho Wolfe s Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps is the very antipodes of the cheap counterfeits or that in effable medicinal beverage which are sold in bottles in which the real elixir was previously contained. The true Schnapps confer health and strength and are palatable in the highest degree. The counterfeits are most pernicious and disagreeable. , „ . . .. " While there's life there's hope." This is well said, for often poor sufferers from severe and depressing maladies have been brought so Jow that it seemed hopeless to hope for recovery. The new medicines introduced lately into New Zealand, have worked such wonders in many such apparently hopeless eases, that they should be tried byall suffering from Rheumatic attacks, severe Gout, Liver Complaints, &c. "»ese, medicines are pronounced to be the "wonder of the nineteenth century, and can b3 had or an Chemi«ts. Ask for "Ghollah's Great Indian Cures."