SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

ARRIVALS

s-rren, brig. Mason, from Sydney Zealandia, P.M. 5.3.. Chevalier, from Sydnoy Taiaroa. s.s,. Wheeler, from the South Kot-rua. s.s., Carey, from the South

DEPARTURES.

lona, s.s., Farquhar, for Russell Taupo, 8.5., Ai.drew for Russell Talaj-oa, s.s., Wheeler, for Southern ports. Zeuhmdia, R.M.S , for San Francisco.

IMPORTS.

Per Zoalandin, from Sidney:— 170 cases fruit, 3 packages leather, 1 cask hard ware, 1 box stecle, 2 boxes starch, 1 package. Per Thames, from Adelaide :— 350 tons barfc.—lreland Bros. Par Kotoma. from the South : — 16 packages merchandise, 110 sacks potatoes, 575 sacks flour. 601 sacks wheat, 1 bos 5 cases cheese, iO cases bacon, 1 case plants, 1 plough, 1 bundle shares, 1 tank. Per Syren, from Sydney :— 357 bags Bell's bonedust. 135 bags maize, W. J. Hurst and Co. ! 'er Talaroa. from the South :— o bales chair, 5 bales hops, [6 packages plants, 6 packages general merchandise. Per barque Thames, from Adelaide: 100 tons bark.— li. Gittos and Sons. Per f.s. Uotorua, from the South: 375 sacks fl- ur, 3 cases bacon.—T. H. Hall and Co. < Per Thames, barque, from Adelaide: /00 sacks wheat.—John Lamb. Per Syren, from Sydney: 99 bales hemp, SUO bag* maize, 10 packages glue, 851 bags bonedust, 16,835 feet timber, 60 tons coal. EXPORTS. Per Rotonm, for Sydney ; 8 cases, 2 pkgs. plants. 2 pkgs., 32 empty cases, 1 bale sack cloth, 20 cases onion. Per Zeaundia, for Honolulu and San Fran ciaco: 307 crates, and 120 sacks potatoes, 52 coils rope, 1 pkg. paper, 2 cases plants. 151 crates, 2is3acks.—Owenand Graham.

ARRIVAL OF THE MAIL STEAMER ZEALANDIA.

Contrary to general expectation, tho P.M. ss. Zealandia arrived from Sydney shortly before midnight last night, after a passage ol four days 1 hours and 33 minutes, being the fastest, we believe, on record. She left the anchorage in Sydney harbour at 3 p.m. on June 20th. Discharged pilot at 4 p.m. on the 21at, very strong soiith-westly winds and heavy sea, which increased toa gale on tho 22nd, and moder ated next day. On the 24th at 2.50 p.m. sighted the Three Kings, and rounded the North Capo at 8 a.m.; arriving in Auckland pilot-ground at 10 38 pm. The Zealandia bnngs a quantity of cargo and the following passengers for Auck land -—Saloon : Mr H. 3. Grine, Mr and Mrs J. H. Douglas, Miss Williams, Mr and Mrs Gubbins, Mr Ptupert Ryder, Mr and Mrs Brown, Dr .^chwar-bach. Mr R. W. Moody, Miss M. McLennan, Hon. J. F. Burns, Mr A. R. Camp boll, Mr and Airs J. Grice, Mr H. H. Coughey, >Vlr N Harker, M- W. J. Davis, Mr and Mrs Hart, and Mr and Mrs Isaacs. Steerage: Mr and Mrs Edmonds and 2 children, Mr C. B. Jorker. Mr and Mrs Weston, Mr P. Fallon, Mr Wm Aihton, Mr G. Tenne, Mr J. Pedro, Mr H. Ferguson, Mr C. Paver, Mr H. Bliss: and 47 adults and 3 children in transit. We are in debted to the courtestyof Mr R. McDonald, pursur, for late papers and report.

DEPARTURE OF THE MAIL STEAMER.

The P.M. s.s. Zealandia sailed for Honoluln and San Francisco shortly after four o'clock this afternoon. Her departure was witnessed by a large number of persons. She took a quantity of cargo. Passengers s—Count and Miss De Zaba, Captain Mci_aran, Mr and Mrs A. B. Ash, Mr and Mrs C. R. Smith, Dr T. Fischer, Major Campbell, Mr and Mrs Ton and child, Mrs Hodgson, Messrs Milne, W. Clark, J. Mason, M. Lewis A. H. Dodge, J. Oakden, S. Beany, Hugh Kuyrett, Eric Wulcombe, Peter Day, J. Far quharson, and Thomus Kinrois.

THE ROTORUA.

The departure of the Rotorua for Sydney did not take place until after four o'clock, on account of the rain rendering it impossible to get at the cargo in the morning. She took the following passengers :— Mr and Mrs J. Glendining, Mr and Mrs J. Somer ville Mr and Mrs Whitelaw and daughter, Mr and' Mrs J. Johnston, Mr and Mrs J. Jack. Mr and Mrs A. Richards ar.d family, Messrs R. Bain, T Black W. Grey, J. Adamson, G. Adamson, J. Cole man, E. Hawkell, J. Buton, G. Ward, G. Wilson, W. Dean, Jacob, Ulman, Barrett. \

Inwards Coastwise.—Kriemhilda, schooner from Thames, with 12,000 feat timber; Queen schooner, from Hokianga, with 10.000 feet timber 41tons gum, and 15 hides. _...,. Outwards Coastwise.—Kreimhilda, schoonar, for Rusell, in ballast; Waiwera, schooner, for Russell, in ballast; Minnie Hare, schooner, for Gisbome, via Mercury Bay, with sundries. The brigantine Borough Belle, which sailed from Sydney for Auckland on June 18th, brings the following cargo:- 250 casks vinegar. 552 bags maize, 28S bales hemr>, 1 tin bolts and nuts, 30 pieces timber, 1106 bags bone dust, 9 pairs shafts, and 6 tip drays. ... • The barque King Oscar, with a cargo of coals, sailed from Newcastle for the Thames, on the 17th inst. ,_.__, The G.G. s.s. Hinemoa crossed the Manukau bar on her way to New Plymouth this afternoon. The s.s. Taiaroa arrived in the Manukau about five o'clock last evening. She left Lyttolton on the 20th, Wellington 21st, Nelson 22nd, off New Plymouth on Sunday, the 23rd, but could not communicate in consequence of the heavy surf; experienced heavy westerly gales throughout the passage. She brought the following passen ger. -.—Messrs Hassell, Sutton. Brown, Saunders, Sutherland, Alexander, Roche, Chudleigh, Binney, Kissling, Scott, Hogan, Oliver, Miss Fosberry, Mr and Mrs Sunders, and Mr and Miss O'Keefe. The s.s. Southern Cross had not arrived when we went to press. She has probably put into Hicks Bay. or some other place of shelter. The Albatross had a very rough passage to Lyttolton, her foresail being split. The s.s. Taiaroa sailed for Southern ports from the Manukau this afternoon, with cargo and passengers. . , , The brig signalled yesterday arrived late last night, and turned out to be, as we correctly surmised, the Syren, from Sydney. She ieft Sydney on the 15th instant, with the wind from the N.W.. and immediately afterward it got round to W.S.W.. blowing a heavy gale, which carried away a lot of canvas, and the vessel shipped a good deal of water, and laboured heavily. Sighted the Three Kinga early on the 20th, and rounded the North Cape at midnight : on the 213t experienced a very heavy squall from the west, with lightning and thunder, and similar weather prevailed all along the coast. Passed Cape Brett at 8 a.m. on Saturday, and thence to arrival hard squalls aUftrain. The Syren brings a cargo of bonedust, maize, &c. The brigantine Aurora is advertised to sail for Noumea via Norfolk Island, in a few days. Low rates of freight will be charged. The barque Queen of the West was shifted yesterday afternoon alongside the extreme western tee, in order to make room for the mail steamer. The Pretty Jane arrived at Gisborne from this port yesterday. The barque Bella Mary entered out at tho Customs yesterday for Hobart Town, and will sail immediately. The s.s. Taupo sailed for Russell last evening, with a quantity of cargo and the following passengers: Messrs H. Gilflllan, Sutherland, Gray (2), Clarke, Forrest, Richardson, Guiard, and three natives. She will return .to-morrow morning, and sail South on Thursday afternoon. The s.s. lona sailed for Russell and Northern ports last evening with passengers and cargo. The s.s. Rotorua arrived late last night from Napier and Southern ports. Left Port Chalmers on the afternoon of June 20, and arrived at Napier on the morning of the 23rd; left again two hours later, and experienced a strong westeily gale, and heavy sea from Bast Cape. The Rotorua bring 3 a large cargo, and the following pass3engers:—For Auckland: Saloon— Mesdames Jones, Lyell and 2. children, Hodg son, Dugleby; Misses Casson and Burrows ; Messrs Doy, Johnson, Newman, Lyell, Dunn. Roberts, Gully, Young. Waite, Master Dugleby; and 10 steerage. For San Francisco : Mr and Mrs Smith, Mai or Campbell, Dr Fischer, Messrs Kingvett. Oakdale, Whitccmbe; and 3 steerage. For Sydney: Mr and Mrs Glendenning, Mr and Mrs Whitlaw and child; Messrs Bain, Hawkes, and _4 steerage. We are indebted to Mr Pringle, purser, for files, &c. - The barque Thames was brought up the harbour this morning, and will come alongside the Queen-street Wharf to discharge her cargo to-morrow. Nile, brig, Mcßurney, for Newcastle The brig Nile sailed for Newcastle yesterday in ballast. TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING. Tauranga, this day. The Rowena .sailed for Auckland at 5 p.m. last night. Russell, this day. Arrived—Taupo and lona.

AUCKLAND STOCK AND MINING ASSOCIATION.

To-day's Quotations— Bank of New Zealand—Sellers, £23 7s Cd. National Bank—Buyers, 78s. Colonial Bank—Buyers, 535. South British Insurance—7o3 ; sellers, 70s. Union Insurance—Sellers, 17s. Auckland Gas—Buyers, £1012s 6d. Guthrie Se Larnach Co.—Seders, 57s 6d. New Zmland Loan—£6. Alburuia—Buyers, 5 a. Moanatairi— Buyers, 60s; sellers, 655. New North Devon—Sellers, lis 3d. Watchman \Thamea)—Sellers, 6s 6d. Thames G.M. Co.—Buyers, 325. Kuranui Hill-Buyers, 13s. Corby—36s; buyers, 365; sellers, 38s. Union Beach-Sellers, 13s. ___.„__ . Eureka and Clunes—23 3d, 2s 6d, 2s 9d; buyers, Oa fid JOSEPH NEWMAN, Chairman.

MARRIAGE.

HENDRY-BLAKEY.—On the 24th June, at the residence of tho bride's father, Onehunga, by the Rev. G. Brown, M.A., J. R. Hendry to Jane, eldest daughter of Mr. T. G. Blakey.

DEATH.

MoMURRAY.-On the 25th June, at his resi dence, New North Road, Mr. J. McMurray, aged 37 years. The funeral will take place at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, 26th instant. Friends will please accept this invitation.

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

TUESDAY, JUNE 25, 1878.

~['/ll;'

We hope the Harbour Board will not crown its many misdeeds by granting private rights over the harbour which it has so long mismanaged. At the last meeting of the Board an application was received from the Auckland Timber Company for permission to construct a wharf from the allotments leased by it on the re clamation, west of Queen-street wharf. The Harbour ' Board has only just bought up the water-rights along the shore

at a very heavy cost, Mr Hawkeswood alone receiving £800 simply for his right to a beach frontage; and what the Timber Company proposes is that a right, ten-told more valuable—that of extending its allot ments, which were secured at a very low rental, two or three hundred feet seaward, FOB NOTHING. If it had been publicly notified before the sale tkat these allotments carried the right to private wharves very different prices would have been realised. Of course the "Herald" is loud in its advocacy of the scheme, and we are assured by that very disinterested champion of public interests that the wharf will be a very good thing indoed—for the Company, that : "No Harbour Board, in such a "harbouras ou_s, has any right to urge its " monopoly at a cost like this, which may " place a large company in a position of " making a loss instead of paying a good " dividend, by reason of th 6 great outlay "for conveyance and labour which the '•water-way, to which they are fairly eu " titled, would entirely save." Now there can be no possible objection to any commercial association doing the best in its power for its own interests; and if, the Auckland Timber Company could persuade the Harbour Board to grant the concession demanded, it would do a very good stroke of business, redounding to the" shrewdnoss of the directors, and the value of which we have no doubt they fully appreciate. But tho same excuse could not be urged in favour of members of the Harbour Board who have large interests in this Company, should they use their public positions to perpetrate what we do not hesitate to assert would bo one of the bigge »t jobs ever attempted in a public body. As for whether tho Timber Company pays divi dends or not, that is entirely its own affair, but that it shall not pay dividends at tho expense of tho public it is, in this instance, the business of the Harbour Board to secure. In leasing the reclaimed land for a period of sixty-six years, while similar bodies in tho South rigidly conliuo their leases to a maximum of 21 years, tho Board has gone too far already. No later than last Wednesday the Dunedin Har bour Board leased the reclaimed land on the harbour foreshore for 21 years at £2 7s to £5 6s per foot per annum. To suggest now that theso sixty-six year tenants shall have thrown into their bargain tho right to trench upon tho public water way, construct wharves, and compete with the public body which has had the harbour trust reposed in its hands— that it shall do bo hy tho deliberate sanction of that body which is charged with tho righteous administration of the public pro perty is perfectly monstrous. The titlo to one hundred feet of water sold with tho allotments will now have the effect of robbing the harbour revenues of a greater amount in wharf dues, pay able before, than the rent of tho allot ments will recoup. It is notorious that wherever private wharves have been established they have proved a most serious obstaclo to harbour administration. In Sydney the authorities of the port are making every effort to acquire such interests, and the following paragraph from tho " New Zealander," of Tuesday last (June 18), gives some indication of the experience in Wellington, where, in the early days, one wharf of the kind was in some way or other run out:—

"Tho Government replied to the City Corporation relative to the alleged en croachment of tho proprietors of Plimmer's Wharf. Tho roply is to the effec. that tho owners of tho wharf havo been warned not to encroach beyond the limits of tho original wharf, and further, that the question of title to the wharf itself would be duly con sidered and investigated by the Govern ment. Messrs Plimmer, Reeves, and Co. have been advised that if they erect any buildings on the wharf, they do so at their own risk."

Not only is it inexpedient, however, that riparian rights of a serious character should be granted to private individuals at the expense of tho public ; but it is ab-olutely illegal, and we warn the Harbour Board that their official countenance to an ob struction of the public waterway by privato Eersons may render themselves liable to eavy claims for compensation, payable to tho persons who mistakenly act upon their authority. Tho Harbour Board cannot confer any such power, aud if anything of tho kind were attempted the first person who found the obstruction to navigation in his way would bo justified in taking steps to compel its removal. We do not believe that tho Board would entertain what has been suggested as a way out of this difficulty, namely, the perpe tration of a Corporate fraud by representing those wharves to the Governor in Council as public wharves, knowing full well that tho public dare not trespass on the private allotments by which alone access could be gained to them from the shore. Any Board guilty of an act so disgraceful would sign its own death-warrant, and share the fate of the abuse it was attempting to promote. Happily for Auckland the Government have very recently had occasion to inquire into tho condition of the law on the subject, a similar question having just croppod up in Wellington, where the Corporation is guarding so carefully the interests of the whole public in the harbour that they have refused sites for shipbuilding purposes. The Government had granted Messrs Coffey and Dixon per mission to erect a small slip, for the pur pose of their business, in Oriental Bay. The firm went to considerable expense to utilise the concession, when a number of residents in tho neighbourhood petitioned against it, and the Government found it Erudent to revoke the authority which they ad In consequerfce of this, Messrs Coffey, Dixon, aud other shipbuilders waited upon Mr Macandrew on Tues day last, June 18th, and represented that, " The shipwrights of Welling ton fomied a very numerous body (180), who really did not know what to do in tho present state of affairs, for in twelve months tbey would be shut out from all water frontage, and the trade Avould be stopped. They desired to know whether it was not possible for the Government to assist them in some way to get a water frontage." We give the substance of Mr Macandrew's leply from the New Zealand " Times," of Juno 19th. After expressing sympathy with the shipwrights, and solicitude for thoir industry, he said :—

" The first he heard of this matter was from a deputation who waited upon him with a petition signed by a considerable number of people who objected to the erection of a slip at Oriental Bay, and that led to an inquiry as to the legal position of the case. On the 27th April he wrote a memorandum to the Law Officers of the Crown, and it was found that the Government had no power to grant permission to construct the slip, and the Government would have no power to main tain them in possession as the law stood. Any of the petitioners could proceed against the owners of a slip for trespass, and if the case went to the Supreme Court there could only be one decision. Under these circum stances he gave instructions that Messrs Coffey and Dixon should be apprised of the state of the case. The Solicitor-General had gone into the subject very carefully, and he was of opinion " that no legal per mission could be given for even a temporary purpose. It was true that works of various kinds had been constructed on the shores of this and other harbours, but in*Tnosfc cases thoy were only permitted to exist' ou sufferance, the owners being doubtless aware that they had no legal rights. He did not know whether Messrs Coffey and Dixon were prepared to erect their proposed works upon these conditions, but as the law stood at present the Government could not extend to them any protection or guarantee, any certainty of the continuance of the slip there. Any person occupying a portion of the foreshore without legal authority would be liable to be proceoded against by indict ment as for a public nuisance. That was in effect the opiuiouof the Crown Law Officer. It only applied to land within the city boundaries. Judging by what had been done elsewhere he thought they might get a three years' lease of a part of the fore shore, under the Public Reserves Act; but

any term beyond that would require legisla tion." ~ , , On further representations by the deputa tion, Mr Macandrew reviewed the whole subject. He observed that it had been a "vexed question since tho foundation of tho colony." Ho pointed out how older countries had suffered from the alienation of water rights, and how it was considered desirable to preservo this colony from a similar misfortune. Ho said : — " Tho Thames was built close up to In London, there was no roadway along its banks, and it was thought it would be better to preserve ihe newcities of this colony from such a state ot things. He did not doubt that applied to Wellington as it did toother places. As far as he could see, nothing could be done without legislation, and he did not know bow far the Legislature would bo warranted in granting such rights within the city boundaries." What a pity that some intelligent and disinterested member of the Harbonr Board did not secure atten tion to this sound and prudent policy before tbe water frontages on the reclamation were alienated for 66 years. Tho Provincial Go vernment, with greater foresight and zeal ior the public good always maintained this right on tho Customhouse-street wharves by a pathway three feet wide along the frontage. One of tho deputation (Mr Coffey) referred to the fact that in Dunedin, steamers were built in back yards, and wero taken across the streets to bo launched. He supposed everybody there was glad to help tho shipbuilders. Mr Macandrew replied " that was in tho face of tho same law being iv force in Dunedin." Being further pressed as to tho powers of the Governor in dealing with tho foreshoro outsido tho city boundaries, Mr Macandrew maintained that the Governor had no power to doal otherwise than temporarily with it without special legislation. We again quote from the New Zealand "Times" : — " So far as his knowledge of the case went ho believed that tho Governor had povvor to deal temporarily with the foreshoro outside the city boundaries, subject to legislation for anything permanent. The samo right that had enabled the Patent Slip to be erected would apply. The Government had no power to act insido the 51 municipality, how ever desirous they might be of meeting the views of the deputation. Of course he was not pronouncing any opinion as to the wisdom of the opposition to the erection of the slip or otherwise He did not know that any great harm could result from these slips. Thoy would not block up the quay, or at all events only when a vessel was be hig hauled up or launched." It is self-evident that the Harbour Board does not posseas power to delegate^ to private persons tho right to im pede the navigation of tho harbour. That such power can only bo conferred by special legislation is so obvious that we aro Burpriscdtho proposal made by the Tim ber Compauy should not have been immedi ately rejected. Among thoso who reflect for a moment on tho consequences of the indis criminate granting of private wharves, which would follow the affirmation of the prin ciple in the case of the Timber Company, there can be no difference of opinion that if the Board did possess such powerit would be an abuse of its trust to exercise it. The City Council might as well grant some favoured person the right to obstruct a public highway for his private convenience and gain. Wo are glad to observe that the Chairman of the Harbour Board, Mr. J. T. Boylan, strongly resisted the proposal; and we trust that he will use all his in fluence to veto what, if carried into effect, would render his term of office infamous in the annals of our port.

The half-yearly meeting ot tho Auckland Branch of tho H.A.C.B. Society will be held to-morrow evening in St. Patrick's Hall, for the purpose of electing officers for tbe ensuing term. We learn that the building in Shortland street, known as the Provincial Offices, i 3 likely to be turned into a temperance hotel and boarding-house.

Miss Jane Cootubes, an American actress, after a very successful Australian tour, arrived from Sydney in tho Zealandia, and has been engaged by Mr De Lias. She will probably appear at the Theatre Royal on Monday next.

The Postmaster General of New South Wales, Hon. Mr Burns, arrived by the Zea landia with the object, it is understood, of consulting with Colonel Glover, MrTayler, and the New Zealand Government upon cable and mail matters.

Mr J. B. Hunter, formerly Government Surveyor, Canterbury, has been brought back from Melbourne on a charge of appro priating Government fuuds. He was in custody in Melbourne, charged there with obtaining money under false pretences.

Well-founded reports reach us from several quarters of the disgraceful aud uusafe condi tion of Constitution Hill. This road has for a long timo been left to foul weather and fate, and as a cousequenco, all the scoria ash has disappeared from the surface, and, as Tom Treadlehoyle says, " t' roads are made of a kind o' claey bottom for t' benefit of foaks what's gotten coma,"and Constitu tion Hill is a veritable "slippery slope." Beccntly tho rain has cut for itself achaunel right across the road,deep enough to supply a grave for several people. We are asked to urge upon the authorities tho necessity of immediately attending to the matter. The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company announce the usual dividend of ten per cent, payable ou 10th July. The transfer books close for the purpose from 27 th to 29th. The Chamber of Commerce of Dunedin is exercised over the goods' station, and at a meeting yesterday insinuated that Sir Juhn Coode's views on the subject had undergone modification after he saw Mr Macandrew, who opposes the site recom mended by the Chamber.

The extreme danger of exposure to the present disagreeable weather has been illustrated during the last week or so by the removal from our midst by death of a number of persons, who only a few days be fore their decease were strong, vigorous, and healhty. The death of Mr John J. Hutson, eldest son of Mr Hutson, of Wellington street, was another instance of this. The deceased, a young man about 19 years of age, was engaged in the performance of his ordinary duties in tho beginning of last weok, but caught a cold, which culminated in ulcerated throat, from which he died on Sunday last. He was well-known in con neotion with the Pitt-street Wesleyau Sun day-school, and was, during the last two years, one of the leading members of the Victoria Cricket Club. He was highly esteemed and respected by all those with whom ho was acquainted. His funeral, which took place this afternoon, was at tended by a large concourse of friends.fl We observe that Dr. Schwarzbach, the occulist, returned by the mail steamer to day.. He purposes remaining a short time in Auckland, and intends presently to an nounce his professional hours and address.

The meeting of creditors in the estate of Alexander John Hatfield, of Waiwera, a debtor, was unattended this morning in the Supremo Court Buildings. The business, therefore, was held over.

Mr Little, the new proprietor of the Thistle Hotel, has generously placed bread and beef before his customers, in order that they might have a midday " snack." His gene rosity, however, has been put to a severe test by the disappearance of a round of beef weighing 401 bs, in less than half-an-hour. The proprietor, not disheartened, repeated the gift to-day. An advertisement in another column notifies that single bottles of any liquor (guaranteed) may be had at the wholesale prica. An immigrant on rounding the heads and catching a iirstsightof Auckland, exclaimed, pointing to St. Paul's Church and the Supreme Court, " That's a capital malt house, what fine stables." That man had been employed in a Dublin malt-house, and. previously in the stables of an Irish Baronet.

The Dunedin criminal calendar comprises five cases of larceny, one of false pretences, one of beastiality, one of rape, ono of in cendiarism.

A very fair essay on the " Life and Labours of Sir Christopher Wren" was read last evening before the members of St. James' Young Men's Association by Mr Frank Hammond. Scarcely an event of public interest in the life of the famous English architect was omitted. The criticisms were generally favourable. Mr Joseph Macky had prepared an essay en " Ritualism," but was unable to render it on account of illness. Tho essay on Wren was criticised by Messrs Schmidt, Steele, Brigham, Cooper, Blackman, McLeod, Burton, Robertshaw, Baker, and Home. The secretary aunounced that threo original stories will be read ou Monday evening next by three of the members of the Society, and being a novel proceeding, it is hoped that all members will make it a point of being present. The names of the autbors and the titles of tbe stories will appear in the Stae. Four new members were proposed. Mr W. Gorrie occupied the chair and conducted the meeting.

An interesting Masonic ceremony, con sisting of a past-master'sjjjewel to Brother Walker, took place last evening at the Masonic Hotel, Princes-street. Among the visitors present, wereJßrother A,_Whitaker, R.W.P.G.M., S.C. ; Brother E. Tyler, P.G.S., S.C, P.M. 348 S.C; Brother Trimble, P.M. 111 I.C. ; Brother Buchanan, 1840 E.C. ; Brother Burns, 4211.C; Brother R. C Dyer, D.G. Pursuivant E.G.; Brother Wade, D.G.S., E.C, and others. The jewel presented to Brother Walker was manufactured by Mr Kohn, of Queen-street, and was much admired for its beauty and finish. The inscriptions were " Lodge St. Andrew, No. 418, S.C," and presented to Brother W. C Walker, P.M., by the officers and brethren of Lodge St. Andrew, 418, S.C, as a token of their appreciation of his ability snd untiring attention while discharging his duties as Right Worshipful Master during the years 1866, 1867, and 1868. Dated, Auckland, New Zealand, 1878. Brothers Tyler and Burns ledf Brother Walker forward to receive the gift, at the hands of Brother A. Whitaker, who delivered it with an appropriate address on the past services of Brother Walker, who returned thanks in a brief, but appropriate speech. The usnal toasts were proposed— viz. : "The guest of the evening," "Visit ing Brethren,'' "Officers of Lodge St. Andrew," " Poor and Distressed Masons," and the "Host and Hostess of the Masonic." Songs were sung in the intervals of the addresses, music supplied, aud a convival evening passed. Miss Florence Colville has returned from Sydney to Christchurch, and has re-joined the Hoskins' Company.

THE SUEZ MAIL.

[BY TELEGRAPH.]

Expected Australian Tour of the Prince of Wales.

The Kaffir War.

Strikes and Distress in Lancashire

[PER PBESS AGENCY.]

BLUFF, this day. The Arawata brings the Suez mail. GENERAL SUMMARY. LONDON, May 10. The Prince of Wales, when visiting the Colonial Courts of the Paris Exhibition, is said to have gieatly delighted colonials by holding ont prospects of a not distant visit to the antipodes. The Queen at "Windsor is in excellent health.

It has been finally arranged that the Duke of Edinburgh shall continue in the Mediterranean. The Duchess returns to Russia on a visit to her parents. The Bishop Solwyn Memorial Committee have resolved to erect a monument in Lich field Cathedral, and found a Selwyn College at Cambridge, to include provision for the education of mission students. Liberal subscriptions are flowing in. The impression generaUy prevails that the Ministers will appeal to the country at the close of the present session, which will be abridged whether their be peace or war. By a terrible squall which passed along the Biscayan coast on the 25th ult., 80 boats were destroyed and 320 men and boys perished. A boiler explosion at a Dublin foundry occurred on April 27. About 20 lives were lost and the premises reduced to ruins. The unfortunate Eurydice is still at the bottom of the sea, all attempts to raise her having proved unsuccessful. There is much grumbling at tho want of skill dis played. The number of persons dependent on those who perished is estimated at about 300, to relieve whom £20,000 will be re quired, and nearly that amount has already been raised.

Adviaes from the Cape continue disquiet ing. There is fighting from day to day reported from one quarter and another with undecisive results. In each encounter fifty or sixty Kaffirs are killed, and sheep and cattle taken, but the enemy retires into his fortress, and so prolongs the contest.

It has required £19,000 a week to afford a moderate amount of relief to distressed people on account of the strike iv Lanca shire. /

The Chancellor of the Exchequer informed the House that the cost of the Indian Expedition would be borne by the Imperial Exchequer, and that the troops, while iv Europe, would remain under the provisions of the "Indian Mutiny Act." WARLIKE PREPARATIONS IN RUSSIA. The Zar lately signed a decree, calling out 2_0,000 men of the reserves; 14,000 Spades have been sent out to the Russian head quarters in Roumania; 20,000 cart ridge chests have been ordered, in Holland and at Constadt, aud Whitehead tor pedoes are being steadily manufac tured. One large factory was recently blown up. The military situation as regards Russia and Turkey appears to be improving; the attiude of the Russian army, in the neighbourhood of Constantinople, is less menacing, while the Turks has been diligently employed, during the past few days, in multiplying and strengthening the defences around their capital, so that any attempt on the part of the Russians to seize the city would certainly provoke a stubborn resistance.

Intelligence comes from Armenia to the effect that the Russians are moving in considerable force into the districts adjoin ing Batoum, with the intention apparently to attack the place if it should not yield, peaceably.

The Christian population are hostile to Russian rule. They flee from their houses and abandon their fields, and have sent formal complaints to the Porte of the cruelties of the invaders.

Baker Pasha's appointment to the com mand of a division occupying part of the defensive lines of the capital. is regarded with satisfaction at Constantinople. The lines are occupied Dy 90,000 men, and forces are constantly arriving from Asia. The Sultan inspected his troops last week.

Railway Extension Committee.

The sub-committee met this morning at 11 o'clock, and resolved on a great mass meet ing to be held on the above subject so that the minds aud will pf the people of Auck land may be heard and understood. The replies of Mr Macandrew led some members of both deputations to fear that it is more than possible that no extension to Queen street or elsewhese will be done if any slight obstacle arises, aud that our station must still be in a quagmire and ocean of mud. The sub-committee have called the general committee for 3 p.m. to-morrow, in order to arrange central and other mass meetings, aud to give more eclat to the effort that must be made if Auckland is not to be flung aside. The sub-committee have tele graphed to Sir George Grey to preside should such a meeting be held. This tele gram was signed by" the whole deputation of the sub-committee.

SHIP HYDERABAD ASHORE.

(BY TELEGRAPH.)

The ship Hyderabad, from*K_** Auckland, with Government railll U to tcrial, is ashore near HorowhenuaK* lna* Foxton and Otaki. No lives wer* T _Wee& The Hyderabad left Lyttelton oni 21st. She had on board a l a J£ J(lll6 tity of broad gauge rolling stock for "aT* laide, where she was to load grain fori? land. The railway material amount^ 0?" 2,511 packages, and Mas shipped bv*° New Zealand Railway Department. c The Hydrabad is an iron ship of i«a tons, and of the following dimensift«„ W Length of keel, 229 ft. sin.; breadth nf?: ~~ 37ftf 2in.; depth of hold, 23ft ain^' was built in Glasgow in 1865, by Diiii and is therefore only 13 years old. ™can»

CABLEGRAMS.

RUSSIANF.FEELING AGAINST C(\K CESSIONS. Ulf- TURKS TAKING ADVANTAGE rv» THEIR OPPORTUNITIES [SPECIAL TO PBESS AGENCY] . LONDON, June 23 Russian concessions to remove the crisis in regard to the Eastern situation, excites popular opposition in St. Petersburc LONDON, June 23 The Turks are fortifying the BalkanH ' BULGARIA BOUNDED BY TTTP BALKANS. fIX BERLIN, June 23 In the Congress, after three hours' de bate, the English-Austrian demand, that the Balkans be the limit of Bulgaria, wag conceded. A GOOD PROJECT. LONDON, June 22. A motion is before the House of Commons for applying one million of the Church surplus funds toward middle-class educa tion. ILLNESS OF CHARLES MATHEWS LONDON, June 22 Charles Mathews, comedian, is very m and life is despaired of. *

WRECK OF THE BLACKBIRD.

[EETJTEE'S SPECIAL TELEGRAMS.]

MELBOURNE,

Tuesday. At the Navigation Board Inquiry to-day, was decided that the wreck of the Blackbird is due to careless navigation. The captain and mate are required to answer th charge.

The Great Waitara Meeting.

[BY TELEGRAPH.]

{FROM OUR SPECIAL COBREBPON. DENT.)

[Owing to the telegraph wire betw&n Waitara and Wellington working badly yesterday the messages of our special cor respondent did not reach us until after tbe hour for publication.]

WAITARA, Monday, 11.16 a.m. THE COMMON RESORT.

On Saturday afternoon, for want of any. thing better to do, the Bridge and Waitara Hotels were well patronised by both Europeans and natives, and frequent private i. interviews took place amongst some of the leading men; Te Wetere also talking for some time with the Hon. Mr Sheehan. Rewi came down to the Bridge Hotel, but soemed desirous of avoiding observation, his visit being merely to see Mete Kingi, who was too indisposed to leave hia room,; Your correspondent noticed particularly the solicitude displayed by the Native:;; Minister and friends for the invalid, libit fi was evidently thought of, and who was;, furnished with medicine and_ blankets,, having also a carrier placed at his disposal.!,

A LADY'S OPINION.

An opinion was expressed by a lady pre- ;< sent that it was a good thing to be ai <: "native,", have Government supplies,' etc., and travel free of costs. This lady, whom your correspondent subsequently gleaned was selected by Rewi, expressed ;; an ardent hope that the" projected meeting would result iv ultimate good for both races," and for the future prosperity of the colony. She looked to see the country opened up ; for direct communication by rail with Auckland, and expressed an opinion that j in the past, tbe opposition met with from the native chiefs was mainly attributable to the conduct of Europeans who frater« nised with the natives, and being many of them of questionable character frequently---, tended to create disorder and distrust in the place of cementing friendship. She spoke in high terms of Rewi as to his;,,-; abilities and willingness to meet the Go-r _ vernment wishes, and appeared to rely on; ' the persuasion used t© induce him to agree with the opening of the country being crowned with success.

THE WHITE CLIFFS MURDERER.

Te Wetere was very sociable all the after noon, aud at one time was playing " God save the Queen" on a concertina in the parlour of the hotel, and stepped a; polka mazurka, and in no - mean style. He evidently appreciated the. old motto of Rome, "When in Rome do as - Rome does." As all the visitors from New Plymouth bad returned by the mid-day train, and the weather during the evening was most inclement, slushy, and cold, bnt few were inclined to stir outside, ihe hotels were crowded; but though all were, in good spirits, every thing, was remarkably ~ quiet, aud nothing unpleasant occurred^*), mar the friendly intercourse existing.be tween Europeans and natives. THE MEETING AND ITS RESULTS. The approaching meeting aad its looked for results formed, of course, the leading topic of the circles round each fireside. 1 may mention here that some curiosity;« excited arising from the remarks of a well known settler, regarding the whereabout*, movements, and intentions of an apparently; > self-constituted Government agent, of MS name of Judge Thomas, who has p-blisnear , a pamphlet in Maori, and whose avOwea object seems to be to induce the natives W adopt his method for the disposal of the" saleable lands. He is reported tobenoW at Mokau, but the gentleman above afiuaW to ascertained at an interview f Native Minister during the evening ««» J there was evidently some misapprehension regarding the Judge, with whom, oa maintained, the Government had .no connection. A future day may pro&aaiy disclose what the Judge's real mission-is.; 11.50. ,

THE WEATHER. . , _■£? Sunday morning opened with nOUIIPI?V^ ment in the weather. It was reported: here, that a special train would leave t°T.J* A :J- Plymouth about nine o'clock, which «.™*r;-. taking a few natives aud visitors into town.. On arrival there they found that the &»» Taiaroa, from Southern Ports, was -in-»» ; roadstead, but, owing to the heavy weatuer* was signalled to steam at sea. A Sf.j many passongers are said to be on the steamer. The party remained mWTv_u about an hour and returned" to Wa'^ with most of the Southern chiefs, aJp>» number of visitors. V^A INTERVIEW AT MEETING PL X A# About 12 o'clock they proceeded toW, Maori Pah on the north side cf the riW. together with the Native Minister, *»-._,. Parris, and a crowd of inhabitants, a» were met on the top of the hill by Te PaM the Ngatiawa chief, who accompanied tn^| to the meeting place outside the wtuufc^, occupied by Rewi. , L Then the tangi commenced, and TO. kept up for about 40 minutes by the womep the chiefs' wives being in the foreground,, it presented an imposing spectacle. y_ Te Patu then addressed the meeti_|) welcoming tue strangers and[visitors 1.. Waitara, which was responded to by ■! '

E EVENING STAR, TUESDAY, JUNE 25, 1878



Gas is superior to every other material as a light-giving agent, not only on account of its brilliancy and its cheapness, but because it is safer, economises time and labour, and is more easily managed. Amongst all classes of society it is iv high favour; taking rank with the necessaries, as well as the elegancies of life. It merits whatever can be said on its behalf. Those who have enjoyed its advantages are always the most ready, as they are also the roost competent to pro- , claim its praise.—[SetfAdvertisement.] j



P E C I A L NO T I CE. In addition to our Usual Large Assortment of GENERAL HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, We are Now Showing the following GOODS, Just Landed, ex ' Aikshaw' :— WALNUT DRAWING-ROOM SUITES, in Silk MARBLE-TOP WASHSTANDS CHIMNEY-GLASSES, Gilt, Very Handsome Patterns CHIMNEY-GLASSES, in Walnut and Maple Frames CANE-SEATED CHAIRS, Various Patterns TOILET GLASSES, Great Variety. T. & B. Coolse, furniture, carpet, and floor-cloth show-rooms: 67, queen-street. Steam Cabinet Factory : Victoria-street.



mo THE PUBLIC OF AUCKLAND. There is much boing mado iust now by somo persons in tho Clothing Trade about supporting Local Industry, but SAMUEL COOMBES Challenges any House in the Trade to Shew that they Employ as Much Local Labour as he docs (that is Auckland Labour), and Money spent elsewhere than in Auckland might almost as woll bo spent in London, as far as we in Auckland are concerned. Samuel (Joombes MAKES THE BULK OF THE CLOTHING HE SELLS! In fact, tho Bulk of tho CLOTHING SOLD at tho CITY CLOTHING MART is Manufactured on the Premises ! Tho only important exception being GKELONO Tweed, or Australian Tweed Goods, which are manufactured iv Melbourne, and as SAMUEL COOMES Has mado Large Contracts in Melbourne for those Goods, enabling him to sell thorn Much Under Wholesale Ppioes 11! The 27s 6d and 30s being fully 20. per cent, under what a much inferior article would cost in any Wholesale House. __T One Trial will suffice to prove this fact.



In the TAILORING DEPARTMENT, SAMUEL COOMBES Has Comploted, since tho 29th of May, 1877, 4726 Measurements! These Figures speak for themselves. JUST OPENED: 200 GALATEA JACKETS, 10/6. A Large Line WEST OF ENGLAND TROUSERS, 10/6; worth 15/6. Also,' SEVERAL CASES WATEBPROOF CLOTHING, which will be Sold Cheap. SAMUEL fIOOMBES, CITY CLOTHING MART, 92. Queen-street, Auckland.



y-KYNAMITE. To Arrive, per Queen of the West, now due from London— TEN TONS DYNAMITE DETONATORS, TTERY, INSULATED COPPER W Etc., Eto. DYNAMITE is tho Safest and Most Powerful Explosive in uso. The Safety of Dynamite During Transport and Storage. Extracts from tho Official ovidonco given before tho House of Commons Select Committee on Explosive Substances—Parliamentary Ses sion of 1871, London. Boxes filled with dynamite havo been thrown from a great height, and founa to sustain any amount of suock without exploding. They havo also been placed upon an open fire, when the dyuamite burned slowly away without ex ploding.—Parliamentary report—Blue Book, page 179. , Dynamite has beon in a railway collision, and, though the van and boxes containing it were broken, no explosion took place.—Blue Book, pago 182, par. 2979. Maior Maiendie, R.A., H.Ms. Inspector of Gunpowder and Dynamite Factories, states, in hi 3 evidence (page 18, par. 100), that tho law re lating to dynamite is as much too stringent as the gunpowder law is too lax; and (page 20, par IJS) that the time has come for relieving Bafo nitroglycerine preparations from such un necessary restrictions as the nitro-glycorine Act imposes upon them. Professor Abel, the Chemist to Hor Majesty's War Department, gives his experience that Nobel's dynamite is ono of the safest, most powerful, aud most convenient explosive agents applicable to industrial purposes.—Blue Book, pages 56, 57, and 59,



Agents : E. PORTER & CO., QUEEN-STREET. AUCKLAND. 7THE MIC A L Tyr ANU RE. Just to Hand, Per 'Spirit of tho Dawn And to Arrive, Per' Schiehallion,' SULPHATE OF AMMONIA NITRATE OF SODA MURIATE OF POTASH. The undersigned are now prepared to execute orders for their Celebrated Chemical Manure, which has for the past three seasons attracted such favourable notice. Please notify in ordering whether for Corn or Root Crops. \Y. J. HURST & CO., 101. Queen-street. T| AI L V EXPECTED, Per ' Syren' and ' Borough Bello,' 200 tons Billyard's Bonedust 50 tons Bell's Bonedust 50 tons Superphosphate Also, On Hand, Mexican Guano Peruvian Guano Maiden Island Guano Gypsum Coarse Salt Rock Salt. W. J."HURST & CO., Queen-street.



A.» JL-INABURY & C DRESSMAKERS AND MILLINERS. NEW DRESS MATERIALS. A Largo Assortment of New Dress Goods or the present Season, in every fashionable shade, Just Opened up at A. LINABURY & GO'S. NEW WINTER COSTUMES, NICW MANTLES, NISW ULSTERS, NEW MILLINHIRY, NEW HATS A Large Assortment of Paris Trimmed Hats and Bonnets Just Opened up. Also, Hosiery, Silk Ti-58, Umbrellas, Collars and Cuffs, Gloves, Chilaro s Mantles and Jackets. Also, A LARGE STOCK OF NOVELTIES, Which are Cheap, and will have quick sale. jt_r Look in at "^ A. LINABURY & CO. 'S, 201 &206, QUE KIN-STREET, Auckland.



THORNTON SMITH. AND FIRTH'S PRICES CURRENT ('Wholesale) Subject to alteration without notice. Sacks. 100's. 50/s Brown Brand Flour, __ s. d. £ a. d. £ S. d. perton 16 0 0 16 10 0 17 0 0 T.S.&F. Canterbury Brand 13 0 0 13 10 0 II 0 0 Sharps 8 0 0 .. Bran 8 0 0 Fowl Wheat .. .. ss. per bushel. The above prices include saoks and bags; sacks andbags not returnable. Terms: Cash. June Ist, 1878.



KiUSHBROOK AND ORIDGMAN Respectfully invite attention to their Large Carefully-selected and Entirely New Stock of DRAPERY AND CLOTHING FOR THRI WINTER TRADE, Comprising— Blankets, all size*, and first-class value Flannels, white and scarlet, all makes Crimean Shirtings, All-wool and Union, in great variety of pattern and quality Winceys, plain and fancy. A heavy stock. "Good and Cheap," a good line at fid per yard Fancy Dress Goods, new shades, in great variety French Merino, Serge, Satin Cloth, and some Special Lines of Fancy Materials, bought a job, and being sold at very low rates Alloa and Fingering Yarns, all colours Winter Hosiery, Umbrellas, Ribbons, Flower- Waterproof Tweed and Waterproofs A Job Lot of Children's and Ladies' Waterproof Cloaks, to be cleared out at much below regular price. Calicoes, Sheetmg. Counterpanes Furnishing and Manchester Goods of every description Boys'and Men's Clothing of every description, Good and Cheap Hosiery, Shirts, Hats, Sec Strong Material for Boyß' Wear—Tweeda, Mole kin, Corduroy, Serge &0., &o. Sec. In order to sustain, the well-known character Of the JL NOTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE for Cheapness and Quality combined. R. and B procure their Supplies from tho BEST MAR KETS ONLY, and spare no pains to Buppl their Customers' wants at the lowest prioe com mensurate with legitimate trading. 5 % (1/ in the „) Discount allowed upon all Cash Purohases of 20/ and upwards. RUSHBROOR. AND BRIDGMAN, DRAPERS. CLOTHIERS, &o„ JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel), UPPSK QUEEN-STREET, Auckland.



f\ N SALE, White Clover Red Clover Cow Grass, &c. Ryo Grass, &c. Mangold Seed Turnips Sheeps' Parsley Sorghum Garden Seeds of ovory description Seed Oats Seed Wheat Seed Barley. W. J. HURST & CO., 101, Quoen-streot. T7. NC O U _Tal} E~NEW ZEALAND INDUSTRIES I To the People of Auckland 1



Messrs. Hallenstein Brothers Desire to inform you that a RETAIL BRANCH OF THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY Is Now Open in Queen-Btreot, opposite Theatre Royal. To effectually introduco their Goods and drive out tho imported article, they have decided to SELL a Single Article at tho Wholesale Price. All Goods are markod in Plain Figures, for Nett Cash only. Any Article purchasod and ap proved of, will bo exchanged with tho same courtedy with which it was sold, or if desired, tho money will bo returned. Tho success which has attended tho New Zealand Clothing Factory's Retail Bi anches in oLher towns leadß the Proprietors to beb'ove that there exists a praiseworthy doairo on the part of tho Public to encourage Now Zealand Industries, especially where superior advantages aro offered; and your Bupport is solicited on this under standing only.



N. L. MEYER, Manager Auckland Branch. SOLE AGENT for WERTHEIM'S CELEBRATED SEWING MACHINES; THE DEST MACHINE IN THE WORLD FT NI ON INSURANCE COMPANY <U OF NEW ZEALAND. CAPITAL ~ „..f12,000,000 AUCKLAND BRANCH: Q U 1. KN-STBIIK T, Next he Colonial Bank. FIRE DEPARTMENT. liiauro.no granted on Dwelling - houses Stores, Shops, Buildings iv which trade 18 carried on, Merchandise, and Goods of overy description. MARINE DEPARTMENT. Hulls of Ships or Steamers, Merchandise of all kinds, Specio and Wool to United Kingdom, at Lowest Current Rates. R. H. STKVKNSON Manager.



CIS When we contemplato tho lono and pitiful condition of thoso living in lonely parts of tho far interior, isolatod, and struck down by sick ness, without the aid of the physician or tho chance of procuring medicine, we should be thankful for our own privileges in being able to procure those invaluable medicines, " Uhollah's Great Indian Cures f and in kindness to ethers recommend their use, as we have found tbem truly beneficial. Proved and attested to by un doubted testimonials. Charlatans are continually attempting to practice upon the health of the unsuspeotiug by the salo of adulterated, fiery potions in bottles of Udolpho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps wluch have been emptied of their legitimate contents. The name or this celebra ted elixir is also counterfeited to aid the swindle. Buyers should inspect the labels closely. Relief fhom Cough in Ten Minutes.— SHARLAND'S CHERRY PECTORAL, 2s. 6d. a Bottle.—Opposite the Post-offlce, Auckland.