SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER-{^ o Afte-O j 0n,5.39 gi SUN SET.—This Evening. 6.54 SUN RISE.—To morrow Morning. 5.d0 MOON'S AGE.-Full Moon, 17th Feb., 10.00p.m

ARRIVALS.

City of Sydney, R.M.s., Dearborn, trom ban

Go-ahead, 1 s?s", Helander, from Gisborne Argylers.s-, Stephenson, from Wangarei

DEPARTURES.

City of Sydney, R.M.s.. Dearborn, tor Sydney. Hawea, s.s.. Wheeler, for Tauranffa and the

South. _ , . ... Hinemon. Government steamer, s.s., iairclnia,

for Wellington. Rotorua, s.s., from Sydney. Monday,

EXPORTS.

Per Hawea, for the South: 20 cases geneva.— Owen «nd Grahtm. 49 pekges, 10 cases, 25 pekges.—E. Porter and 40 coils wire.—Henderson and Macfarlane. 1 case.—E. and H. I?aaC3. 1 bale. Ireland Bros.

ARRIVAL OF THE SAN FRANCISCO MAIL STEAMER.

The R.M.S. City of Sydney arrived from San Vrancispo with the English and.American mails at six o'clock last evening, after a passage of 22 days 8 hours and 15 minutes, including: all stoppages. The run between San Francisco and Honolulu was prolonged by severe gales. The following is Captain Dearborns report:—iue Pacific MailCo's s.s. City of Sydney, H. C. Dear born, commander, left San Francisco on Jaunary 21sfc. at 10.30 p.m.; stopped to discharge the pilot, January 22nd. at 12.50 a.m. Arrived at Honolulu on January 31st, at 2.30 a.m.-9 days and 5 hours; about 40 hours more than the usual trips owing to unusually heavy head gales, with a confused 3ea. Left Honolulu on January 31st, j>t 12 15 p.m.; arrived at Auckland on February, lith, at 5.30 p.m. Time from Honolulu: 13 days 3 hours and 15 minutes." Passengers:—For Auckland—Messrs H. D. Rolph, Robert Fisher, A. C. Jackson, P. W. Conroy, A. Andrews. For 3vdney—Mrs H. C. Dearborn, Master ft. Dearborn, Dr and Mrs H. B. Hare, child, and servant. Miss Brett. Dr W. M. Britten, Mrs Emma Hardinere jßritten, Mrs Beale, "Rev F. Moore, Mr W. S. gFell and wife, • Messrs W. J. Maxham, R. Murray, Robert Bell. Steer age, 30.

The schooner Christina cleared to-day for Napier with a cargo of railway iron, firewood, The s.s. Hawea left for Tauranga and the South at eight o'clock last night. She was the bearer of the Southern portion of the San Fran cisco mail brought by the City of Sydney. Pas sengers :—Mesdames Frith, Crawford, Fitchett, Rollo Geldie, Carr: Mr and Mrs Solomon, Misa McLean: Messrs Darby, Lawry (2), Hiissey, Th srne (2), McLean. Coleman, Wilson, Hood, Coontr, Morrison, Brown, Minter, Rarnsbottom, Brou r'hton. Campbell, Jackson, Hall, Barnes. Carruth, Thomson', Robinson, Kelly, Dundas, Adair, and 14 steerage. The s.s. City of Sydney left for bydney at 12 o'clock last night. She took away the Austra lian Cricketing Team, and several other pas s^n°-ers whose names were published yesterday. Tlie s.s. Hinemoa left the Manukaufor Wel linsrton yesterday evening. The barque Island City is putting out her cargo of coal into one of the hulks in the stream. The brig Emily is unloading her wheat at the rail way wharf. The s.p. Go-ahead arrived from Gisoorne at half-past eight this morning, after a moderate weather passage, accompanied by K. and S.W. winds. Cargo-16 bales wool, 22 hides, 3 casks Ullow, *• ton sundries. The s.s. Argyle arrived from Wangarei this morning. Passengers—Mrs PrestOD, MissOCon nell, Mis 3 "White, Miss Taylor, Mrs McDrae, Mrs Bayne, Messrs Phillips, Rich, Baxne, Geddis, Preece. Cargo—3o bag 3 gum. 20 sheep, 150 boxes fruit. The ship May Queen was hauled alongside me Queen-street wharf thi3 morning, to finish her loa t ing for London. Only a few tons of cargo remain to be taken in, and by to morrow the vessel will be a full ship. She is to clear at the Customs on Monday, and will probably sail on Tuesday nexM „ . -, The owner 3of the cutters Tairua and Euphemia have matched Jtheir vessels to sail a race round Tiritiri for £15 a side, to come off in a few days' time.

ENGLISH SHIPPING.

The fol'owing passengers were do uea Dy Wrn. Ashby and Co. to proceed by the Chim borazo to Auckland, via Australia :—Jno. Nicholson, Jas. Nicholson, Jas. Turner, Arthur Advices have been received that the German man-of-war Adrianeis dally expected in Sydney to take the piace of the Augusta on the Pacific station. It is probable that after leaving Sydney, the vessel will call here on her way to 4-1-l (a TslSjQ tils The barque Arabella, 665' tons, left London for this port about the 28th January. She is con signed to the New Zealand Shipping Company. The Spirit of the .Dawn, according to iatest advices, was loading in London for this port on behalf of the New Zealand Shipping Company. The Ciaigie Lea, a barque of 622 tons, was advertised when the mail left London, as the next ship of, Shaw, Savill, and Cos. line, to follow theAikshaw. The barque Mendoza, 494 tons, Capt. Howie - son left L-mdon for this port on the 20th Decem ber, and was off the Isle of Wight on 23rd. The barque Fontenaye passed Deal December 14th. " '

AUCKLAND CATTLE MARKET.

Mr A. Buckland reports: At the MaymarKei, on Friday, February Bth, laEib3WOOl offered in moderate quantity. It was in good demand at 9d to 9M the lb: sheepskins, 2s 3d to 4s lid each. Hides were in better request, and brought A£d to 3iVd; calfskins, 4id the lb, Fodder was m moderate supply only, and good inquiry. It brought from. 3s 6d to 5s 3d the cwt.: straw, for b°ddin°\ short of requitements. Horse stock warded were numerous, but of very indifferent Quality. A large number were sold at prices varying from £2 10s to £6; useful light harness horses, from fill to £19; strong farm horses. £30 to £35 each. At Remuera,. on Thursday, dairy cows, near calving, were in les3 than usual number; those brought forward were sold freely at last W3ek'a advanced values. Store cattle move than usually numerous, ana with an irregular demand; on the whole, pncea were hto-her. Fat cattle in less than general supply; 111 head yarded. Last week's values barely sustained. Fat calves fairly supplied, and in good demand. Store sheep numerous, and dull of sale. Vat sheep in average supply, and late values. Lambs abundant; best quality at last week's prices, second quality lower about 1b per head. Store pigs numerous and m good inquiry. Small fat pigs eagerly competed tor. Also, by private sale for the province of Wel lington, from the Dashper Park herd of Messrs T. and S. Morrin, the pure short-horn bulls Cupid and Valentine, and 260 choice two year old heifers, at satisfactory prices.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails wilt, Ci.osro ab Undier.— For Thames, this day. at 5.30"p.m.; and to-mor row, at 11 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. For Waiheke and Coromandel, per Argylo, on Monday next, at 11.30 a.m. For Tairua, per Mana, this day, at 4-15 p.m. For Tryphena, per South Carolina, thia day, at 4.45 p.m. For Waiwera, Mahurangi, Matakana, Manga wai, Waipu, Wangarei, Mangapai, per Anne Milbank, to-morrow, at 10 a.m. For Samoa, per Noival, Monday next, at 11 a.m. For Russell and Kawakawa, per Taupo, on Monday next, at 3 p.m. • For Russel], Kawakawa, Wangaroa, and Mon gonui. per lona, on Monday next, at 4 p.m. For Whibiangi, Tauranga, and Opotiki, per Ro'wena, on Monday next, at 4 p.m. For Taranaki and Southern Provinces, per Taiaroa, on Tuesday, 19th inst, at 5 a.m. For Napier, Wellington, nnd Southern Pro vinces, per Rotorua, Tuesday next, at 3 p.m. For Gisborne, per Go-ahead, on Monday next, at 4.30 p.m. __ Per s.s. Zealandia; on Tuesday, sth March, as For Sandwich Mands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central ' and South America, and British and Foreign "West Indies, at 3 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent- of Europe, at 3 p.m. For money orders, registered letters and newspapers, at 1.30. Late letters bearing an extra fee of sixpence in addition to the post ago will be received by the Mail Agent on board the steamer up to tho time of sailing. S. B. BIS 3. Chief Postmaster.

CALLS AND DIVIDENDS.

The following are the dates of Gold Mining calls, and when dividends are due :— Calls— Tookf-y 010 Feb. 20 Long Tunnell 0 0 3 Feb. 28 Bismarck 0 5 0 Mar. 1 Dividends— Albumin, • 0 15' 0 Feb. 8 Union Bank of Auatralia 2 0 0 Now due Bay of Islands Coal Com pany 0 10 0 Now duo Auckland & North Shore Ferry Company .. 5% Now duo National Bank 0% Feb. 19 A flood of liquid rubbish has been placed upon the market, put up in Uholpiio Wolfe's Schie dam Aromatic Schnapps bottles, the genuine contents of which have been used. Spurious labels arc also often used by the scamps who seek to persuade the public that the hurtful liquors thus disguised are the same or similar to the true and peerless medicinal cordial. Ask for the genuine and insist upon having it.

BIRTH.

GILMOUR.—On tho 11th February, at her re sidence, Coromande?, tho wife of James Gilmour of a daughter.

DEATH.

MITCHELL.—On tho 14th instant, Mr. James Mitchell, of Maneare, aged 29 years. The funeral will leave the residence of Mr. A. Wallace, Mangare, to-morrow (Saturday), at 2 p.m.

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

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15. 1878,

for the caiac that lack* ssstaunc*. For fee wrong th».t netds teststancs, Fo. the futurS l» the .iiitauce, Aa4 ties E*«<l &>** •* •** **•

EUROPEAN news is daily becoming more ominous of war, and any hour may bring intelligence of some occurrence which has precipitated the final declaiacion of the eventuality for which England is preparing with all speed. The tenor of the latest messages leads to the expectation that the despatch of the British fleet to Constanti nople may be accepted as the gage of battle. Russia and Turkey have both e:i:ered pro;e>is against this declared intention of the British Cabinet, although it n;ay be open to question to what extent the Turkish protest expresses the views of the Porte, or embodies the dictum of Russia. The Turkish Government, may however, have been instigated to the step announced in the telegram of the 13th, by fear of bringing the Russian legions into the capital, which has hitherto been spared. The cable di spa c'ies to hand are hardly sufficient to account for the sudden change in the English policy from neutrality to active intervention, and it is, perhaps, not unreasonable to infer that the Cabinet possesses secret information which has dicta ci the decisive measures of the last few day-, in the face of suspended hO3ti:i ies and the agrecnn nt for a Coi ference. However that may 1 c the attitude of defiance now maintained between England and Russia is one which each nation will find it extremely hard to relax, and yet preserve national honour and prestige, without war.

In an address at Wellington last night, be fore a thousand people, Sir George Grey dis cussed several important questions of Minis terial policy. He took the opportunity of clearing himself of those charges of anta-. gonism to Wellington, which have been in dustriously propagated for the purpose of arousing the jealousy of Wellington colo nists. He pointed with confidence to the works he had undertaken in the early days of the province, and stated that when he was Governor, Wellington working men pre sented him with the most valuable testi monial he had ever received. He could not understand why jealousy should exist between Wellington and Auckland, their sources of commerce being wholly different and in no wise antagonistic. Auckland commerce would be chielly built up out of the South Sea trade, while that of Wellington would depend upon a naturally central position in relation to the rest of the colony. A little reminiscence of his early life was narrated in explanation of those influences which led- him to the colonies, and have played a part in his subsequent advocacy of liberal institutions. The Press Agency telegram states :—" He said that while a young man he was sent out in Ireland in command of a large armed force, foot and horse, to collect tithes from a people unwilling to contribute towards a faith they did not believe. His-heart was heavy at the duty, and from that time he resolved to go to a country where no such laws obtained, and hia efforts since had been directed to having a fairer distribution of the world's goods and juster laws." He commented unfavourably upon the attitude of a powerful party in England which had propounded the doctrine of forcible retention of the colonies, and a colonial contribution to the fleet. It is evident that Sir George Grey's sym pathies lean strongly to the side of the Liberals in their opposition to the Eastern war. "What right," he said, "had colonists to be asked to contribute in support of the English fleet? A small minority in England, who did not represent the bulk of the people of England, might declare war at any moment, but if there were a federal union, and if the whole people were represented, they would cry out against war." Upon questions of colonial policy and the intentions of the Cabinet, Sir George expressed sentiments in unison with those which he has put for ward in previous speeches. He maintained the justice of universal suffrage. " Even Mr Gladstone, who for many years held opposite views, had now come round to the opinion that every adult man should have a vote. After long experience, he was more and more convinced that the representatives should be returned in exact proportion to population, and equal electoral districts, and give to every man an equal voice. Perhaps he could not carry that and other reforms at once, but justice would not be done until he did that." Sir George main tained that both in New Zealand and tit the Cape he had actively promoted public works, as a cardinal feature in colonising policy. But land-owners reaped the chief benefit from these works, and should be called upon to contribute a larger proportion of the consequent taxation. Touching his visit to Waikato, the Premier said that if the Government preserved a kindly and forbearing attitude, there was no danger of any renewal of native dis turbances. He concluded with a general review of colonial federation, condemning in the strongest terms those who,, like Mr Lowe, would sever the connection between the colonies and England, and-said : "The British race had a grand destiny before it, and they ought to go on with the work of building up a great empire. The work was not the complicated work it was at home. Let them have real self-govern ment, and not allow a governing class to spring up to curse this country as it bad done at home and in other old countries." We are not surprised to learn that the enunciation of these views was received in Wellington with an enthusiasm in no degree less than that which has been elicited in other parts of the colony. Sir George Grey's popular style of address would gain him admirers anywhere ; his principles, however, are those upon which must be founded any permanent influence and party following. In this respect he has been singularly and unprecedentcdly suc cessful in districts of the colony before divided by and devoted to local interests. He is the only Premier who has attempted to create in New Zealand a school of politicians without provincial leanings, and representing broad national opinions. Through his exertions there are rapidly be coming defined two great divisions answer ing in their general features to the Con servatives and Liberals of England, which will live long after their founder has passed away. Addressing a large meeting lately, Mr John Bright instituted a clever com parison between the legislation of the English Liberals and that of the greatly modified conservatism which lias replaced the old Tory party. The legislation of the Liberals, Mr Bright observed, was almost invariably based on broad general principles and designed to promote the general wel fare ; that of the Conservatives, for special purposes, and to meet the wants of some particular class. No definition could more happily' describe the distinction between the measures of the present Ministry and of that party which found a very fair repre sentation in the Atkinson Cabinet.

The New South Wales assembly has negatived a motion to reduce the immigra tion vote to £50,000. " Artillery " inquires whether there is a way for respectable young men, strong and healthy, desiring to jointheS.y dney Artillery, to be able to proceed there from Auckland at the expense of the New South Wales Government or otherwise. [We are not in a position to furnish the desired information. Our correspondent should write to Sydney. —Ed. E.S.] The adjourned meeting of the market gardeners of Newmarket and neighbour hood will be held on Wednesday evening next.

The Band of Hope meeting last evening was not so largely attended as expected, owing to the rain which prevented some persons from venturing out. Mr McKenzie gave a practical address in favour of total abstinence, and several pleasing ballads and recitations were given by the children and friends of temperance progress. To-morrow will be the lost opportunity of witnessing the "Blacksmith's Dream, one of the most ingenious and remarkable exhibitions that has been witnessed in this city. The tent will open at three in the afternoon, with a new performance by Mr Punch, especially for young people, mothers, and children, and in the evening to the public generally. The Hobsou Band will make another of their pleasant moonlight excursions on the Waitemata on Monday evening next, starting from, the wharf at half-past seven o'clock. Should the evening be fine, the trip will be refreshing and agreeable. It will be observed that the committee of management in connection with the orran recital, under the direction of Harcourt Lee Esq., at the Pitt-street Wesleyan Church, have selected a very attractive programme for Monday at 8 p.n% We feel sure that with Mrs Miichell and other local celebrities, the festival will give the greatest pleasure to every one. In some of the comic papers published in St. Petersburg, there is a series of pictures entitled " Doctoring the Sick Man," and representing a Turkish Aga, who, having killed and eaten a Bulgarian slave, acquires such rotundity that he cannot leave his bed. A British sailor is the first doctor called in, and after him an Austrian mendicant, but their prescriptions do not seem to help the patient. Then in stalks a big Muscovite, who recommends a change of air—a trip to Asia—and iv the last picture the Turk is reduced to his normal proportions. In the caricatures which are sold in the streets of Moscow, Great Britain is generally pour trayed as a dandified yachtsman, with red mutton-chop whiskers, and long foppish looking nose.

Since Mr Smith, of railway newspaper and bookstall celebrity, of London, has risen by successive steps to be First Lord of the Ad miralty, everybody in his employment seems) on their own particular account, to have gone up a step or two likewise in dig nity. Even the smart, and occasionally saucy, newsboys appear to have grown at least an inch taller, and to have piit on more frills. Of which fact the following anecdote may serve as an illustration: —The scene is at the Portsmouth ■ railway station. Says a W. H. Smith newsboy to an officer of the Royal Marines waiting for train: "Paper, sir? 'Standard,' 'Times' 'Daily News,' ' Telegraph,' sir?" Officer —" Go to ," a place unmentionable to ears polite, but supposed to be tropical of climate. W. H. Smith's newsboy—" I say, if you ain't civil, I'll get my master to stop your Autumn leave !"

" Band of Hope " writes stating that the Free Methodist Sunday-school, Pitt-street, has a Band of Hope connected with it, which meets every alternate Monday even- The Roman Catholics of Dunedin had masses for the repose of the Pope's soul on Sunday last. We draw attention to an advertisement of a lime-light exhibition in St. Matthew's schoolroom this evening. Mr Dennes will exhibit some interesting and comic views, with explanations. This amusement, it will be remembered, was promised the children who attended tne school treat on Regatta Day, to make up for the wet weather. These children will be admitted fece; parents and friends are charged 6d each, to defray the expensc3. Should there be any balance left it will be put to tho library fund. We trust to see many of the parents there, as their presence will shew the interest they take in the amusement of tho young folks.

A special meeting of the Dovonport Lodge of Good Templars will be held in tho lodge-room this evening, at eight o'clock, to consider the advisability of surrendering the Charter to tho Grand Lodge.

In reference to a remark made by Sub- Inspector Pardy at the Police Court yester day, we hare been requested by that gentleman to state that the observation was not meant as an imputation against Mrs E. Dunning, of the Market. In her large dealings as a poulterer she cannot always guard against having stolen poultry im posed upon her. A team from the Rcmuera Cricket Club proceed to Papakura by the 7 a.m. train to morrow morning, to play a match agaiust the highly-reputed Bombay Club. As usual with teams travelling from home, several of the best men are unable to go. The team is as follows :—Messrs W. F. Buck land, S. Jackson, T. Whewell, D. Touks, Scarborough, Chceseman, Coleman, 11. Jones, A. Baber, A. Tonks, F. Yonge, and H. Jackson.

By the mail yesterday were received at the City Council oflices copies of the Municipal Reports of San Francisco for 1876-7. The work is a bulky volumn, furnishing information upon every matter connected with the Government and trade of the City. Messrs. William Ashby & Co., the pro prietors of the New Zealand General Commission Agency, Bishopsgatc-street, London, offer special advantages to colonial visitors to Londod, and a call at their offices will be amply repaid. The latest colonial newspapers are always kept on hand, and every kind of business with the colonies is transacted with despatch. The celebrated " Inspirational Lecturer," Emma Hardinge and her husband, Dr. Britton, were among the passengers by the City of New York, and a few hours after they left for Sydney. A numberof Auckland Spiritualists greeted the lady on the vessel last evening, and were charmed with her manner and conversation. They presented to her a telegram from Mr Charles Bright, the popular Free Thought lecturer, request ing her to visit Duiiedhi. She was unable, however, to accede immediately to the re quest, as she is guided, according to her statement, in her engagements and travels by the influential suggestions of the spirit circle. Dr. Britten intimated that their movements are also affected materially by a guarantee of their expenses. The lady objects to being termed a " medium," and speaks of herself professionally as an " Inspirational Lecturer." Miss Emma Hardinge Britton is very engaging in con versation, and expressed a wish to see our city as well as tue light of the evening would pern.it. A carriage was consequently procured, and the lady took a pleasant drive around Auckland, accompanied by Mr Samuel Coombes, who pointedout the various public buildings and spots" of in teiest to the visitor, with such passing com ments upon them as their importance seemed to need. Mrs Hardinge Britton .states that she receives a considerable in come from her published works, and her last work, " Art Magic,' has met with a very favourable reception. It is not un likely that Mrs Britton may visit New Zealand at the close of her Australian tour, and gratify the Auckland Spiritualists with one or two of her splendid orations. '

A meeting of the teachers of the Educational District of Auckland will bo held in City East schoolroom, Wellosley street, to-morrow afternoon, at 3 o'clock, to receive the report of the Chairman, and discuss further arrangements, in accordance with resolutions passed at a previous meeting. We believe that the rumour that Mr li. J. O'gtilUvari, the present Inspector of schools under the Auckland Board of Education, has been offered the position of inspector General of the Public Schools of the colony under the Ecucation Act, is not without foundation.

A tea-meeting Jand 'soiree in connection with the induction of Rev. Dnvid W. Runciman to the Ponsonby Presbyterian Church will be held this evening in the Ponsonby Hall. The programme of the concert and general proceedings promises an excellent entertainment, which will, no doubt, ba largely patronised. )

We learn that the colporteur of the Auck land Branch of the British and Foreign Bible Society is making a tour for the pur pose of supplying copies of the Holy benp tures in districts where such many be needed. He purposes visitingthe Manu rangi and Waiuku Agricultural Exhibitions, proceeding onward through the Waikato districts. . , On Wednesday last Mr Firth received a communication from tho Colonial Secre tary's office to the effect that 500,000 white fish ova were expected by the Govern ment per City of Sydney, and requested km to see to the i rans-shipment of the consignment per Hawea, which, despite the short notice, was effected with complete success by Mr' Frith, with the aid of his workmen. .^ , . Mr W J. Douglas writes with reference to the case of Douglas v. Norrie heard before Capt. Jackson, KM., at Mercer. He says : " The charge was withdrawn after Mr Norrie reading his apology to the open Court, which, if he had done before, no proceedings would have been taken. Mr Douglas then makes a statement of the case ; but as it was not brought in Court, nnd mif'ht be subject to contradiction from the other side, it would hardly be fair to The Australian Cricket Team left for Sydney last night by the City of Sydney. A large number of their friends Avere down on board to see them away. - - Two boys, named Benjamin Agrew and Thomas Quin, were arrested this afternoon by Constable Bulleu, on a charge _of absconding from the Naval Training School. _____

POLICE COURT. —THIS DAY.

(Before R. C. Barstow Esq., R.M.) FAILING TO PAY. William Negus was charged with failing to contribute towards the support of his four children in the Industrial Home, arrears £3. Defendant said he was willing to pay, but was unable. His wife was at the Thames. He would pay £2 on Monday. Remanded till Monday. FOWL-STEALIN G. Henry O'Brien was again brought up on two charges of fowl-stealing. (1) with steal ing two Spanish fowls, value 10s; and (2) two common fowls, value ss, the property of Henry Surman. ■ Henry Surman, of Chapel-street, deposed that he possessed a number of fowls. He missed the Spanish fowls, and traced them to the shop of Mrs Dunning, poultress, of the Market. He did not know the pris oner. Eliza Dunning deposed that she dealt in poultry, and that prisoner offered the fowls to her ; she agreed to give him 3s for the two, but having no money in her stall prisoner said he'd call in the evening on returning from his work. He was arrested in the meantime, and did not call. She had known prisoner and his frieuds for a longtime. Detective Grace was informed by Mr Surman that he had lost his fowls ; he learnt that prisoner had left them with Mrs Dunning, and spoke to him about them. ITo said at iirst that he did steal them, and 'hen that ho bought them of a person in a juokseller's shop. Sub-Inspector Partly said that as Mrs V inning was not clear as to buying the t\\ o common fowls of prisoner, he would ask to withdraw the charge. His Worship told prisoner that if he bought the fowls of a person it would not be difficult to bring the person^forward. Prisoner did not know his name nor address. Sub-Inspector Pardy said nothing was known of the prisoner, who he believed was in a situation. His Worship said he must lind prisoner guilty of stealing the two fowls, but not wishing to blight his character he would not pass sentence upon him, but allow him to be discharged, but the charge would be recorded against him, and if brought up on any similar charge he would meet with a severe punishment. BREACHES OF DV LAWS. George Harrison oxpressman was charged with obstructing tho public by placing timber on the footpath in Queen-street, on the 6th inst. Defendant pleaded not guilty. Mr Cunliffe, baker, and Constable Dyer, having giving evidence, defendant said there was a disturbance between him and his employer about the [jfare, and' sooner than take 4s fid, he flung tho timber down, but not, on the pavement. His Worship ruled that lie had rendered himself liable by his conduct, audmust pay a fine of 2s (id, costs 18s. George Osbome was charged with leaving his cart unchained in Wyndham-street, on the 9th inst. Defendant pleaded guilty, and was sub jected to a fine of 2s 6'd, costs, 5s Gd. Allan McGuire was charged with not keeping a light burning at a hole in Chapel stroct, on the night of the 6th inst. Mr McGuire said there was evidently some mistake. He held that the City Council were responsible, as they had taken the work in Chapel-street. His Worship .said as there had evidently been a misunderstanding in the matter, on the part of defendant, who should have taker, some steps towards securing a light, he would only impose a fine of Is and costs.

CABLEGRAMS.

Latest War News.

PREPARATIONS IN VICTORIA

[SPECIAL 'JO STAB.]

MELBO C RNE, Thursday.

Mr Berry, Premier of Victoria, con siders Earl fieaeonsftoUrs statement with reference to the British fleet and Prince Gortschakoff's rejoinder as a virtual declaration of war.

The Tiotorian Government had been informed by the Imperial authorities previously that war was inevitable.

Everything was ordered to be placed n a war looting in Victoria to-day.

ENGLAND NAVAL AND MILITARY PREPARATIONS.

CHANNEL SQUADRON TO RENDEZ VOUS AT GIBRALTAR.

TURKS PROTEST AGAINST BRITISH FLEET ENTERING: DARDANELLES.

[REUTERS SPECIAL CABLEGRAMS.] LONDON, February 13. Active military and naval preparations are being made. - The Minister for Foreign Affairs, in reply to a question, said he hoped to announce on Thursday that the British ironclad squadron had arrived at Constantinople.

Several Austrian ironclads are starting for the Levant.

The Channel Squadron lias been ordered to rendezvous at Gibraltar as the port of call. „ , The Turkish Government has notified a protest against the entry of the British Squadron to the Dardanelles. The .opening of the colonial wool sales has been postponed to February 26. [SPECIAL TO THE MELBOURNE' " ARGUS."] LONDON, February 13. The Government lias purchased two Turkish ironclads, detained as contraband in the Thames.

The Appeal Court has upset the convic tion in the Bradlaugh-Besant case. THE POPE'S LEGACIES.

LONDON, February. 12.

The Pope left two wills. The first leaves three and a half millions of frances annually to his successor for the expenses of the Papacy. The second leaves his nephews, his legatees, three hundred thousand francs ; and to [hi poor of Home tlie remainder.

SAN FRANCISCO MAIL

European ITeWS-

London, January 20. Gambetta desires to have French Cham bers adjourned throughout ;the summer, so as to insure"political quiet daring the Inter national Exhibition. Dr Meletics, member of the Hungarian Parliament, has been convicted of high treason. . The British army and navy estimates have been formed on a peace footing. i The budget of Russia shews a deficit of 600,395,425 silver roubles. Sergeant Charles McCarthy, one of the lately released Fenian prisoners, _ died suddenly on the 14th, while breakfasting in Dublin'with C. S. Parnell, Home Rule M P The funeral was attended by 60* 000 persons, and was the largest since O'Connell's. The verdict of the Coroner s jury was, "Death from heart disease, accelerated by the treatment he received in prison." The announcement of the verdict was received with loud and prolonged applause. . . Cardinal Maiming will negotiate with the British Government for the removal oi obstacles to the re-establishment of a Catholic Hierachy in Scotland. The London " Times " and other journals estimate the fourth quarter of the fiscal year > will shew a deficiency of nearly £1,000,000 in the budget. The French Government has been officially notified that Spain has broken off all relations with ex-Queen Isabella, regarding her as insane. She will never be permitted to return to Spain. The "Fanfulla" reports that Victor Emanuel said on ghis death-bed : " I have always felt affection aud deference towards the person of the Pope. If I have person ally displeased him I am sorry, but in all acts I have always had the consciousness of having fulfilled my duty as citizen and Prince, and of never having committed any thing contrary to religion." _ The " Advertiser" hears oh reliable authority that official information has been received in St. Petersburg that the Chinese have massacred 15,000 men, women, and children at the Kashgarian town of jManas, : committing the most frightful atrocities. I General Ignatieft' is expected to take part at vhe Conference of European Powers. A Turkish paper was suppressed for attacking the Czar. The Kaffir war is nearly closed. Cotman had surrendered, and Kreli Galiki was endeavouring to make terms. A small chief, Chiwa, had escaped with 200 fol lowers. Sir Bartle Frere recommends complete disarmament of natives. Bradford, late U.S. V ice-Consul General of Shanghai, still remains in gaol on a charge of tampering with letters. Native companies are being formed for the development of Chinese mineral resources. The Japanese ship of war Telki-Kuwau, built and wholly fitted up in Japan, aud manned and officered by natives, is about to start on. a cruiae in the Mediter ranean. A heavy fire occurred on the 12th m the warehouse of Crocker, Son, aud Co., Watling-street, London. It was the largest that has happened in London for some years. The lo&s was £200,000. D. R. McGregor, and Co., merchants, have failed, with liabilities ranging from £100,000 to £150,000. McGregor, in conse quence, has resigned his seat in Parliament. On January 11th, an unknown man committed suicide by leaping from the Whispering Gallery, St. Paul's, London. The Imperial order of the Crown of India, for ladies only, has been created. It has been conferred upon all the English prin cesses, eight Indian Highnesses, and eighteen other persons of distinction. Midhat Pasha is in London. A strong demand is made by people in Constantino ple for his return. Baker Pasha has been promoted to the position of Lieutenant-General to the Turk ish army, Joseph Anderson and Sons, provision dealers, of London, have failed for £200,000. Corporal Chambers, the only remaining Fenian prisoner, was released on Monday, the 6th.

cj-The barque Penstero, from Cardiif for Constantinople, was run down in the Eng lish Channel on the Bth.

King Humbert, of Italy, has issued a proclamation in which he pledges himselt to carry out his late father's policy. Slado, the Spiritualist, was expelled from Berlin because he could not give the police any satisfactory explanation of his means of subsistence. He went to Vienna, from which he was also expelled.

A boat race for £200 aside and the Championship of England took place on January 14th on the Tyne between R. W. Boyd, of Gattcshead, and Higgins, of Chad well, present champion. The course was from Highland Bridge to Scotswood Sus pension Bridge. Boyd got away first, but Higgins was gaining when Boyd began to crowd him out of his course. Finally when Higgins was about to take the lead, Boyd laid his 1 scull over the forequarter of Higgins boat, and the two boats went some distance locked, when Higgius boat filled. Another boat was provided, but meantime Boyd took a long lead, an I went in nearly a mile ahead, but the race was awarded to Higgius on the foul. .The "Daily News" says Disraeli is de termined to force Russia to stay her hand, or to precipitate war. A movement is imminent on the part of Germany to obtain seaboard under condi tions which would seriously affect England. This consideration is having great influence in the Cabinet on the side of those who advocate England's reserving her strength. Some deeply important information has just reached this country, leading to the convic tion that a warlike policy on England's part in the East would be the forerunner of more serious complications nearer home,

A dispatch from Berlin says Russia is negotiating with the other Baltic Powers for the purpose of prohibiting war vessels of non-Baltic Powers from entering that sea.

Count Zichy, Austrian Embassador here, declared to Server Pasha that Austria could not prevent the conclusion of an armistice on the basis of peace preliminaries, but that as a signatory of the Treaty of Paris, Austria would not recognise a peace concluded without her assent to its different points, and that Austria would be prepared to protect her interests by all means at her disposal. M. Tricoupis, Grand Minister of Foreign Affairs, has demanded of the powers the admission of Greece to a congress preliminary to the conclusion of pease. It is said that Lord Derby has recognised as just Greece's claim to admission. Italy has likewise re plied favourably. The Turkish Mininster of Foreign Affairs has sent a note to Lon , don, protesting against the participation of Greece. The claim of Greece to be re presented in any European conference really points to the acquisition of Thessaly and Epirus, and possibly Crete. The Fenian prisoners, 'lately released, were welcomed to Dublin by a torchlight procession in which 20,000 people joined. The Home Rule Conference at Dublin passed resolutions by which the members pledged themselves to maintain the unity and authority of the party, and recognised the wisdom of united and energetic action under the leadership of Dr. Butt. The Conference lasted eight hours, and termin ated in a scene of disorder and uproar. THE WAR. The Servians have been defeated in two engagements—one of Haftir Pasha, and the other Ezoul Pasha—with severe loss. The last-named pursued them to the frontier, burninft\six military stations, and destroy ing their entrenchments. Archibald, Forbes, war correspondent of a London newspaper,, has returned. He could not endure the severity of the Bulgarian climate. He reports terrible suffering undergone by the army of inva sion. Words cannot describe the misery of the •t nation oa the Danube. The Russians

suppress telegrams, with the view of" ' venting the state of affairs becoming V* : to Europe. *>Knosm ; Spotted typhus has broken out arnono i the Turkish prisoners in Frotcschie a a neighbourhood, and it is whispered that U is really the plague. lt Germany and Italy have demanded f n their fleets the same privileges in Turkiih ' ' waters as England. 11 Many refugees perished on the way tn> Constantinople In coal trucks, fifteen bein<» ■ found dead one morning. The sufferings of the people are described as awfof>~ Mothers threw away their living babi«, rather than see them diem their arms. A* the train moved from Adrianople, numbers of people tried to cling to the sides and " framework of the carriages, and some to ''* ride on the buffers. At one place, where hundreds of people had been two days H without food, the people threatened violence if notsupplied. 15,000 women and children 1 were outin the snow, the cold being intense It is not known where the refugees w.UI fi a fl shelter in Constantinople. Eizeroum is now (17th) little betterthan : a huge hospital. About 1100 soldiers die, daily. Tavo or three are frozen to death every night. Typhus is raging, and as the : corpses are barely covered with earth, the consequences will be terrible when the thaw commences. If peace negotiations fail, the Sultan will, it is said, unfurl the flag of the prophet, and call on she faithful to rally to the stan dard. The Turks have bombarded towns in the Crimea, [causing irritationat St. Petersburg, seeing that peace negotiations are proceed- I ing. Servia intends to claim the following peace conditions :—lndependence of the , Principality, cession of old Servia, and indemnity for Turkish devastation during the last war. A " London Times " special from Giugevo says the mortality among Turkish prisoners at Frateshti is fearful. The station at that place is becoming the terror of travellers between Bucharest and the Danube. The graves round the camp are veiy thick. The correspondent says he saw Russian soldiers digging huge graves, and near them fifty Turkish corpses in confused heaps as they were emptied from the dead carts. The bodies were ragged, half-clad, and frost bitten. The Turkish fleet has shelled SebastopoL Prince of Reuss, the German, and Count Cortie, the Italian Ambassador, have informed the Porte that if it permits the British fleet to come to Constantinople, ■ Germany and Italy will also demand permission for their fleets to pass through the Dardanelles. The Russians have extended railway communication to Simnitza, and erected an iron bridge over the Danube. The Turks have bombarded the town of Theodosia, southeast of the Crimea. They burned ten houses, killed one person and wounded twelve. They have also bom barded Anapa, on the Btack Sea, in Circassia | but did littlo' damage to the town. One person was kiled there. The bombardment of open towns by the Turks, while negotia tions are proceeding, is said to cause great irritation at St Petersburg. • Germany is said to contemplate the absorption of more seaboard. The Vienna "New Frei Presse" says that the Russian demands increased after the capture of the Schipka Pass.

THE LATEST,

LONDON, Jan. 20.

Before leaving Adrianople, the Turks burned their provisions, and blew up their ammunition. Austria demands a voice in all peace ne gotiations, and wili not recognise peace con cluded without her consent. Austria's position is regarded as an understanding with England. VIENNA, Jan 20. A Pera special says :—"Tzzed Pasha conveys to the Turkish plenipotentiaries full powers, and will inform them Englaud* will not go to war.

American News

Mr Creighton, agent for New Zealand", in San Francisco, sends by the City of New York a consignment of hali-a-niillion white fish eggs. The United States has signed a treaty of: peace and commerce with the iSamoan- Islands.

The barque G.M. Tucker is charatered in New York (19th) for Dunedin and Wel lington ; 42s 6d per ton. General McClellan was installed Gover nor of New Jersey on the 15th. The Spanish Government has proferredv peace to the insurgents in Cuba. The principal portion of the -town of: Winthrop, Jarvey, was destroyed by fire on the 2nd.

The tenure by which Hayes holds the office of President of the United States is to be investigated. Memorials to that end are being presented from all quarters. The first came from Maryland.

General O'Neill, Fenian leader, died on January 7th, of paralysis, at the Hospital of Mercy, Omaha, Nebiaska. He leaves a wive anil three children. The funeral was imposing. Henry Ward Beecher offers to give up a quarter of his salary, because pew rents have fallen off. His salary "will still be ] 5,000 dollars per annum. Moody and Sankey are preaching to audiences of 10,900 persons at Hartford, Conn.

The merchants of New York propose to abandon the system of commercial travellers.

A tramp being ordered out of Funrwal's bagging factory, Brooklyn, deliberately applied a lighted match to a bag of jute. The fire that ensued involved a loss of 8,000 dollars. . One hundred and thirty employe's had a narrow escape from burning and suffocation.

In a suit against the Direct Cable Coni' pany, it has been held that the Company is not responsible for losses caused by imper fectly written dispatches, unintelligible to the operators. Hexter, Tully, McCue, Heboe, and Dennis, Pennsylvania " Molly Maguires," have been sentenced to be hanged. The Bank Presidents of .New York, Boston, Baltimore, and Philadelphia, have organised themselves into a committee to oppose a bill to renionetise silver. It is said the President will sign the bill if It passes Congress. A mob of 150 roughs took possession of Lead City, and caused great disturbances. The citizens are arming and organising to protect life and property. The Californian Senate passed a. netf Riot Act, which provides that any person who, in the presence of 25 or more persons, shall say anything with intent to incite a riot at the time or subsequently, or shall advise forcible resistance to any of the State laws, shall be punishable by imprisonment for not less than two years, or a fine not exceeding 5,000d015. The Indians raided Mason County, Texas, killing two men, and running; off a large number of horses and cattle. - United States troops and Texas Raagers are in pursuit. At Boston, a demonstration of 4,000 unemployed marched to the City Hall and presented various resolutions to the Mayor, who said he had no authority to give them employment, but the City Council would do what it could for them.

An explosion took place at Pott's colliery i near Ashland, killing four men, and wounding three others. 500 unemployed men were engaged in New York at one dollar a day. The Military Affairs Committee of the United States thinks the army of 25,000, too small for America,. At Salt Lake, the Indians having refused to surrender a murderer, three companies of United States troops surrounded the encampment, capturing fifty-five men and 250 horses.

Twenty-five murders were committed in Kemper Country, Mississippi. During the Uial of one of the murderers, a horde or.

EVENING STAR FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15. I*7B



SUPERIOR SAMPLES of Sydney and C 5 New Zealand Maize, Tartarian and Potato Oats Table Potatoes, Flour, Oatmeal, Bran, Sharps, Barley, Jhaff, Oilcake Coal, &c, &c, always on hand. & CQ 101, QUKEN-STREET. AUCKLAND Olover seeds. C/loverseeds. ~"-•-•■« CONSISTING OF "White Clover Timothy Red Clover RaP, c., Cow Grass i" 173*0. 11 Alsyke &c, &c, &c. Turnip -r-n! "' - AND A Fine Collection of Farm and Gardkn Seeds. also, A Shipment of American Timothy. Samples of the above Seeds will be forwarded on application. Poverty Bay, Canterbury, and local Rye Grass, Cocksfoot, Ratstail, Poas Fescues, &c, &c, from carefully selected samples, at lowest mar kCtrateS- W. J. HURST & CO., lOl.JJucen-jitreet. mllE NATIONAL BANK OF NEW .!_ ZEALAND (LIMITED). Incorporated under the Companies' Acts 1862 and ISG7, and the New Zealand Act 1., 1873. Notice is hereby given that an Interim •'VID KND for the Half-Year ending 30th 1877, at the rate of SIX (6) PER CMNT per Annum has been declared by the Direoloi-3, and will be paid to the Shareholders (whose names appear at thi3 date on the Register kept in the colony) on and after the ll't'n instant. . . - ... The Transfer Books will be closed from this dctte until the 19th instant. THOS. BUCHANAN, Inspector. Wellington, sth February, 1878. rry & h! c o ok c 1" © Have on Sale ONE OF THE LARGEST STOCKS OF FURNITURE IN THE COLONY. Special Items:— mm DRAWING-ROOM SUITES WALNUT TABLES CARPE! S HiOARTHRUGS LINOLEUM FLOORCLOTH IRON BEDSTEADS TOILETb. LASSES CANK-SKATED CHAIRS TOILET-WARE DUAWERS :\IARBLE-TOP WASHSTANDS M ATTRESSES . FEATHER BKDS. A Small Shioment of CRETONNES and CASH MERES, New Patterns. All Goods at Lowest Rates. delivered free.' Liberal Discount to Cash Buyers, Wfaurnilurc Showrooms .... 67, QUEEN-STREET mmteam-Cdbinet Factor]/ .. „. .VICTORIA-STREET



FT .N lON INSURANCE COMPANY NEW ZEALAND, ft A.PITAL £2.000,000. U C X L A M) • BItANCH; QUKRN-S T U E X T, Next the Colonial Bank. FIIUS DEPARTMENT. glnsuranc granted on . Dwelling-houses, Stores. Shops, Bnfldhißa m which trade is carried on, Merchandise, and Goods of every description. MARINI3 DEPARTMENT. Hulls oC Ships or Steamers/Merchandise of all kinds, Specie and Wool to United Kingdom, AT "OWEST CORKENT ItATKS. R. 11. STEVENSON Manager. OYAL~INSURANCE COMPANY. Special Notice to Insurers. This CompaiiT, having intimated to the In surance Association their Withdrawal from Tariff Arrangements, is now prepared to grant Policies on all descriptions of Property at equitable rates. , .., Concessions will be made on first-class build ings and approved risks, in Town and suburbs, and for water supply and other protection, where made available. Special arrangements will be made witn Mortgagees, Solicitors, House Agents, Con tractors, and other large insurers. The policy of the Company is promptness and liberality in the settlement of claims, and strictly honourable dealing in all its transactions. The Security of Insurers is unsurpassed by that of any Company doing business in the> Colony. Urlij\J. W. JU.LN .CiO, Agent. Office: Shortiand-street, Auckland, 8;h February, 1878. The usual Book and Sheet Almanac 3 for 1878 can be had on application, or on information being sent to tlie Oflice. _; mwSNTY PER CENT. DISCOUNT. FOR.A SHORT TIME ONLY ! FANCY DRESS MATERIALS, FURNISHING GOODS, BLACK SILKS, BLANKETS, CALICOES. HOSIERY, HABERDASHERY, LADIES' UNDERCLOTHING, CARPETS AND MATTING. CLOTHING OF~ALL KINDS, FOR BOYS' AND MEN'S WEAR, HATS, CAPS, SHIRTS, &C, AND EVERY DESCRIPTION of GENERAL DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, AT m, TWENTY PER CENT, REDUCTION. FOUR SHILLINGS IN THE POUND ALLOW 10D UPON ALL CASH PURCHASES. Goods Entered will be Ciiarqed Regular Prices. OUSHBROOK AND T3RIDGMAN, DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, &C.,' UPPER QUEEN-STREET, Auckland, (Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel). TUST OPENED 1 CASE GENTLEMEN'S REGATTA SHIRTS Of a Superior Quality of Frexch Cambric, and the most Fashionable Patterns. W. RATTRAY, CLOTHIER & MEN'S MERCER, V-Kff r^EALAND TTOUSB. 66, QUEEN-STREET, Auckland. x riosGRAVE & rio. WILL HOLD A GREAT CLEARING SALE OF MEN'S AND BOYS' CLOTHING TO-MORROW. All Goods Reduced to Cost Price. Inspection Invited. "VTEW ZEALAND LOAN AND MER CANTILE AGENCY COMPANY (LIMITED). It is hereby notified to Shareholders in Now Zealand that a DIVIDEND, at the rate of Ten .per cent, per annum, for six months ending 31st December last, and a BONUS of Five per cent, are now Payable at the Bank of New Zealand. D. L. MURDOCH, Managing Director. Auckland, February 14,1878.