SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

m , n w . „,„,i. j This Evening, 5.18 HI JH WATER} To .morrow Morning, 5.40 SUNSKT.-Thla Evening, 7.10 6UNRIBK.—To-Morrow Morning, 1,41 .k. CON'S AGE.-Full Moon, 17th, 3.15 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY. Glonelg, s.s., Fa_quhar, from Tauranga Rotorua, 5.8., Tozer, fiom South Argyle, s.s., Crawford, from Whangarel Southern Cross, schooner, Jacobs, fr.m Norfoik Island. ■■■---ii.

DEPARTURES.

LABT EVENING. Australia, P.M. s.s.. Cargill, for Sydney Annie Bon, barquentine, Stephens, for Whanga roa

TO-DAY. Glonelg, s.s., Farquhar, for Rusecll Waitaki, 3.8.. Edfo, for Tauranga Argyle, 8.8., Crawford, for Whangarel Paku, cutter, Diaz, for Tairua

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

London—Wanganul, loading Rotorua, to-morrow Levuka—Albion, s.s., tomorrow Tauranga—Glenelg, Wednesday; Waltakl.Mon-

day Rußsoll—lona, Monday Melbourne, via South—Tararua, Thursday Whangarel and Kuasell-Woitakl, Wednesday New Plymoath and South—Hawea, Monday Whangarel—Argyle, Tucsdaya and Frldoys Waitaki, Friday

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Wolverine, H.M.S., from Sydney, shortly Lady Jocolyn, ship (K.V.P.8.), Irom London: sailed Sept. 28 Margaret Galbraith, ship (J.K.L.0.), from Lon don, loading Looh Urr, barquo (W.Q.L.K.), from London, Balled September 27 A. C. do Friotas, barquo (R.F.M.K.), from Lon don, sailed October 21th. Sydenham, barquo (J.M.F.Q), from London,

loading Loch Dee, barque, from Ltnion, loading Beatrice Haverner, barquo (J.Q.CL), from New York, sailed Sep.. 20 Cabarfeldh, barque (9.Q.M.J.), from Hongkong Himalaya, barque (V.T.K.M), from London. soiled November Lcoh Fleet, boiquo (L.K.P.S.), from Lon'.on Balled Aug ost 29 , Ocean Ranger, barquentine, (W.T.N.V.) from Lyttelton and New York Flirt, brlgantine (W.LG.P.), from Levuka Helena, brigantine, from Rarotonga Active, brlgintino. from Samoa Look Oat. brlgantine, from Sydney Boroalis, biigantine, from Levuka Orwell, brigantine, from Rotumoh Look Out, brigantine, from Sydney Myrtle, brigantine, from Tonga Clansman, brigantine, from Melbourno Defiance, brigantine, from Melbourne Kthel, brigantine, from Dunedin Kyno, brigantine, from the Islands Oamaru, brigantine from Dunedin Southern Cross, from Norfolk Island, dally Energy, schooner, from Noumea Sybil, schooner, from Cook's Islands

IMPORTS.

Per Rotorua, from Melbourno, 113 packages tea, 518 packages sugar, 80 bags rico, 10 cases sago, 60 colonial ovens, 8 cases zinc, 15J casks wine, 8 cases geneva, 50 caso3 clorot, 1917 oases korosmo, i coses books and sundries From Lunodia:-8 packages hops, 91 co'es drusts, 75 cises and packages. From Lyttelicn :—2l eases bacon, 275 sacks malt, 13 cases sundries. From Wellington :—5 kegs treacle, 10 packots ho,s, 6 packages. From Gisborne:—2l saoks maize.

The Mission schooner Soutl-orn -,Cros3 re turned from her c:uieo to Norfolk 'Island this afternoon. A report of her passage appears in another column.

The s s. Argyle, from Whangarel, brought 50 so -Its gum, 33 bales wool, 6 boxes butter, 15 cases fruit, 10 sacks fungus, 2 head cattle, 3 tons luggage, and about fltteen passengers.

The s.B. Glenelg arrived thi3 morning from Tauranga with 12 bales wool, 10 head cattle, 120 pigs, and 3 tons sundries. Passengers;—Mr aud Mrs Tola, Miss Donnelly, Messrs Bloom, Howe, Whitelaw, ond Whitcombe.

The s.s. Rotorua arrived this morning with the following paaseneera :—From Melbourne— (saloon)— Mrs Edwatda. Steerage—J. Kdwards. From tho Coast—(saloon)—Misses Smith. Pain <2), Hheehy, Sutherland, Kinder, Wethorall, Mrs Flood, Mrs PaiD. Mr and Mrs Lusk and family, Mrs Watts and two children. Captain Clayton, Messrs Brownhill, Welsh, Clark, Dunlop. Newell, Hardwick, Howell, Watty, Derritt, Hayman. Weymouth, Scott, Brandon, Cole brook, Phillips, Bnckland, Andrew, Proctor, Held, Benort, Rotschlld, Clark, Clarke, Battley, bunolt. Steerage—Mrs Baillie, Mrs Llnd and three children, Messrs Shaw, Gommell, Marshall, Batten and boy, Harry (native), MoLellan, Horsley.

A paragraph appeared in a recent issue of this journal to the effect that the barque Loch Fleet, from London to thia port, was spoken by the Parthenope, on September 26, in latitude 7° 19" north, aod longitude 26° weßt. We areinformed by the chief officer of the Danloe that the vessel to which he belong* was in 6" north and 22° west on the day in question. Sbe would, therefore, havo been comparatively close to the Loch Fleet, and the arrival of the Utter vessel may be looked for daily.

The brigantine Borealla is loading at Dunedin for this port.

Measrs Shaw, Savlll, and Co's ship Oxford, 1382 tons register, is loading at London fur this port.

The ship Mai-Karat Galbraith, Captain Feruu son, left Gravesend for this port on October 29, and passed Deal on the following day.

The s.s. lona did not leave on her usual weekly trip to Russell last night, having been docked for an overhaul. Her place was taken by the s.-. Glenelg, which left this afternoon.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

DEPARTURES. Hawea, s.s., Kennedy, for South Rowena, b.s., Amodeo, for Waitara

Tho s.s. Hawea for the Sou.h took the fol lowing passengers — Mesdames McDongall. Mao Donald, Hume ,'md child. Misses Kdlth Bennett, Murphy (2i, Brownlee, Paul, Thompson (2), Messrs F. Burt., DeMous, V. 3. Litchfield, Churton, A. Hayes, Paul, James, Downio, Candy, North.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

London, Deoember 13.

Arrivals: Samaracand, from Lyttelton, ssi.ed September 8; Silver Eagle, from Lyttelton, sailed September 9.

Lvttelton, yesterday. Arrived: Borealls, briKantine, from Welling ton; Advance, schooner, from the Thames. Sailed: Onward, for Waiters; Bells, for Capo Town; Louis, for Newcastle.

Port Chalmers, yeßtorday. Arrived: Waltara, ship, from London. Sailed: Penguin, for Auckland. Passenger—Mr Gar diner

THE WEATHER.

(1.) WIND ESTIMATED AS C-Calm I F. Br.—Fresh Breeze li.— Light St.—Stormy Br.—Breeze | G.—Gale (2.) ANEROID BAROMETER. (3.) WEATHER ESTIMATED AS B.—Blue sky, be the at- o.—Overcast,the whole mosphere clear or sky covered with heavy thick clouds 0. — Clouds, passing P.—Passin? showers clouds Q.—Squally D.—Drizzling rain K. — Kaln, continued F.-Foggy rain <?. — Gloomy, dark S.—Snow weather T.—Thunder H.—Hall V.— Ugly, threatening li,—Lightning 1 appearance :

COMMERCIAL.

Evkstnq Stab Officb, Tueaday.

Mr R. Thompson's annual wool sole at Whangarel last Wedneiday was well attended. The prices- obtained were highly satisfactory, greasy fetching from 7_d to BJd, and washed from 9d to 12} d.

Mr Gabriel Lewi, held a sale of Japanese Bilk costumes and general habsrdashery goods to day. The attendance was considerable, but the bidding was rather languid. The goods sold realised satisfactory prices.

Mr G. w, Binney will offer for sale to-morrow, the Junction Hotel, Katikati, without reserve.

MR AUCKLAND'S WOOL SALE.

Mb Alfred Bccklani. held hi? third and principal wool sale of the season to-day In his shed. Tho prices ruled a trifle higher than at the previous sale, and was well attended by buyers. The wool offered consisted of 71 lots of lorgwool in grease, and 179 bales, including several bales of mixed and half-bred, averaging from 7d to 8_ I; looks and piece", 5s -id; long wool, washed, 18 lota, GO bales, lowest figure, 9d, Bni highest, Is _d. The p'i^oipal buyers were Mes3rs Cruickshank, Ireland, Held, Potter, Sutherland, Osborne, nnd Warnock. On the whole the sale was satisfactory.

CHIEF PORT-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails win Close as Under t— This day. For Wangoroi Hoods, Woipu, Wangorei, and Mangopoi, per Argyle, at 1 p.m. For Levuka and Tonga, por Albion, at I p,m. Wednesday, loth Instant, For Thames, per Rotoinahana, at 10 o.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Thursday, 16th instant. For Woiwero, Te Kopa, Croigloburn, and Warkworth, per Rosa Casey, at 10 a,m. For Glsborne, Napier, Southern porta, and Aus tralian Colonies, per Tororuo, at 9 o.m. For Whitiongi, Tairua, Tauranga, and Opotlkl, per Glenelg, ot I p.m. Friday, 17th instant. For Waiheko and Coronmndel, per Coro mandel, at 2.30 p.m. ROBT. KAYE, Aotlng Chief Postmaster.

Meetings, Entertainments, &c.

December 11, 1880.

Newton Congregational Sunday-school Soiree —Edinburgh-street, 6.30 p.m.

St. Luke's, Remuera—Grand Sacred Ccaoert, 7.30 p.m.

Y.M.C.A.-Evangellatlc Servioo, Rev. J. S. Hill, 7.30 p.m. Pitt-street Schoolroom-Devotional, 7.30 p.m.. Grafion Road School—Christmas Tree Enter tainment, 7 pm.

All Saints' School -Christmas Tree, &c, 7.30 p.m. Alexandra-street Schoolroom—Boneflt Con oart to K. Glovor (varied), 7.30 p.m. Victoria Lodgo, I.O.G.T.—Newmarket, 7.30 p.m.

BIRTH.

SMITH.—At her residence, A'ma Cottage, Grey street, on Deoember 9, the wlfo of Captain Smith, of a daughter.

DEATH.

SOMEP.VILLE. —On the 11th instant, Helen Llston. beloved wife of Mr M. SomerviUe; agci 17 years. _ „ _, The funeral will leave Emily Plaoe to mor row (Wednesday) of tornoon, at half-past throe o'clock.

NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Sportsman.—" Public place" has a legal defini tion. You should consult a lawyer. Subscriber.—The pronunciation of Hewl Is Raywee.

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

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 14,1880.

For the cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future in the distance, And the gcod that we can do.

By yesterday's mail we are placed in possession of further information repecting the character of the labours undertaken by the Royal Commission on Imperial Defence, for whose con sideration the letter of the Auck land Harbour Board on the question of a large Graving Dock was submitted by the Hon. Mr

Brassey. Tlie Commission is now taking evidence, and its labours are expected to extend over three years, although an interim report will probably be submitted to the Government next year, According to the " Home News" the vulnerability of the Empire and the liability of the scattered outlying colo nies to attack, as well as the Home country to be cut off from its sources of supply, is accepted by the Commis sion as a foregone conclusion, and the work of the Commission is mainly divided into two heads—first, what defensive measures are necessary ; and, second, who shall undertake and defray the cost of them. It ap pears to be taken for granted that the Imperial Government must take the initiative, and bear the chief burden, and very justly so, because, in all probability, the only serious risk to the colonies would arise through wars developed out of British policies, in which the colonists have no voice whatever, Three classes of defensive measures have been suggested as essential to any scheme: first, an in crease in the navy, and encouragement to the design of merchant steamers on lines that will make their adaptation for war purposes easy; next the estab lishment of proper coaling-stations; and thirdly, the construction of a large dock for re-fitting ships of war. Under the last head, wliich possesses the closest interest to Auckland, the " Home News " says :— " Another crying want, the provision of which is deafly an im perial duty, is a dock for large ships of war at the Antipodes. The project has been discussed again again; but it has not got beyond that stage. No doubt it would entail expense, but not more than the loss of an ironclad or two, which may yet be the consequence of further neglect. Nothing would be easier than to transfer the staff, plant, and machinery bodily from one of our home dockyards to Sydney or some other Antipodean port"

The information which the Harbour Board prepared for Mr Brassey covers all the points of inquiry indicated in the foregoing classification and it is extremely fortunate that a document setting forth Auckland's claim with so muoh vigour and authority has been brought directly before the Commission under auspices influential enough to , ensure its careful consideration. The Board should lose no time'

iii supplementing this information, more especially upon the subject of dock accommodation and facilities for refitting, nnd it would carry very con siderable weight if a substantial guar antee were afforded to the Imperial Government that a dock answering the requirements of Her Majesty's ships on this station will bo under taken by tho local authorities if an assurance is given that the Imperial Government are prepared to take advantage of it by creating Auckland the chief naval station for the South

Pacific

The broader genoral question of colonial co-operation in maratime defence is wrapped up with that oft discussed theme Colonial Federation. Tho Australasian colonies are unques tionably populous enough aud wealthy enough to combine for self-defence. The South American Republics, though in other respects anything but model Governments, have shewn an example which puts cjlonial helpless dependence on the mother country to the blush. Or if wo seek a more illustrious prece dent wo havo not to go beyond the American colonies, which won thoir independence from Great Britain by a successful war when the population of the combined States or Colonies did not exceed 2,500,000. The population 0 f tho Australasian colonies is now nearly 3,000,000. It is contrary to the tradi tions of tho colonies that they should succumb boforo any omcrgoncy calling for the display of self-relianceorcourago, and repeated inter-cobuial conferences at which tho question of union for defen sive purposes has been discussed prove that the colonies are neither iusonsiblo to tho danger nor unwilling to grapple with it. The " lion in tho path " has been tho lack of an acceptable and workablo basis of co-operation ; and wo think that tho labours of tho Imperial Commission will vory materially assi-t in removing thot obstaolo.

The English press, with the exception of the " Standard," have reserved their judg ments respecting the French annexation of Tahiti, aud as Parliament was not sitting when the news reached London, there was no one to ask the Government unpleasant questions ou the subject. Mr John Findlay, F.R.G S., however, writes to the " Times," giving a history ol former negotiations on the subject. Uu March 25th, 18-13, Louis Philippe ratilied the acceptance by Admiral Thomas of the protectorate of Tahiti and its dependencies, and on June 19th the French Ambassador to Loudon audLordPaliueratoii, then Foreign Secretary, siguod the follow ing agreement on behalf of their respective Governments of which tho following is a translation :—London, June 19, 1847. Her Majesty, the Queen of Great Britain nnd Ireland, aud His Majesty the King of the French, desiring to remove all cause of dis sension between their respective Govern ments outho subject of tho undermentioned islands in tho Pacific Ocean, engage mutually. (1) To rccogniae formally the independence of the Islands of Huahine, Kaiatea, and Boraboia (westof Tahiti), and the small islands adjacent and dependent. (2) Never to take possession of these islands, either of one or of all, cither abso lutely, or under the title of protector, or under any title whatever. Moreover, to recognise that any Prince of Tahiti may reign in all the islands, or if reigning on one of the islands over Tahiti, also the individual independence of tho above-mentioned islands, aud of tho Isle of Tahiti and its liependencics being founded on these principles. —Palmerston, Jarnac. Mr Findlay concludes thus : " It would be interesting to know if the French Govern ment have given notice to licr Majesty's Government prior to the annexation. Tho history as to how the iFronch came to assume the protectorate of the island is well known, and as an old resident I believe that the annexation will be for the benefit ot the inhabitants and the prosperity of the whole ot that part of the Pacilic. Not unlikely the annexation of the Ganibicr and the Marquesas groups will soon follow, and the gain to the French will be more than appears on the face of a Rimple announcement. Tahiti ia principally a naval station, and there are the various bureaux presided over by sous-lieutenants of marine. Tho trade is almost entirely in the hands of the Americans, Germans, and a few British storekeepers, and tho island is the head-quarters from which numerous small vessels start on trading voyages, bringing back the produce for shipment to America or Germauy, and sometimes, though rarely, even to the Australian colonies. Tho natives are as idle and docile now as they were in bygone days; but professing, aatho great majority, including tho Royal Family, do, tho Piotestant Christian religion, it is to be hoped that a greater freedom will exist than has existed heretofore. The importation of foreign goods into Tahiti amounts annually to about two million francs ia value, and as the French govern tho natives in their colonies in a different manner from the British, public works, such as roadmaking, &C, do not cost tbe community much.'' Mr G. Piitchard, then Consul, gives the fol lowing account of the French protec torate in spite of the above treaty I " When, in November, 1843, the French took forcible possession of Queen Pomare's dominions, under the guise of the French protectorate, I was living there. Although I was Her Britannic Majesty's Consul, I was arrested and imprisoned. After being kept ten days in solitary confinement, I was put on board an English vessel out at sea, and forcibly sent away trom the islands without a trial or investigation of any kind. On my arrival in England, our Government de manded from the French Government an ex planation. M. GuizotrepliedthattheFrench authorities at Tahiti perceived that I had so much influence with Queen Pomare, with the chiefs, and people generally, that so long as I remained they could make no progress. He approved of my removal; but condemned the means by which it waa effected. The French Government pledged itself to indemnify me for my pecuniary losses, my illegal imprisonment (as they themselves called it), and the consequent sufferings of my wife and family. It is also stated that M. Guizot disavowed his Admiral, and made pecuniary compensation to Mr Pritchard for the indignity he had suffered. That disavowal was in word only, not in deed; and a. respects tho pecuniary compensation, I solemnly declare that I have never received from the French Government one single sou of the promised indemnity. Any of your readers wishing to obtain further information relative to the establish ment of the French protectorate at Tahiti will find the particulars in a small book, entitled " Queen Pomare and her Country," published by E. Stock, 62, Paternoster-row, London.—G. Pritchard. A correspondent of the " Times " gives the following additional information :—"Sir, — A private letter from the Pacific informs mo that more has been done than the formal annexation of Tahiti. Contrary to the express terms ot the treaty of 1847, the French have assumed the protectorate of the Leeward Islands. My correspondent says:—The French have cajoled the people of Kaiatea and Tabaa to accept their flag. Other groups will certainly be swal lowed up, and this means a check to British influenceandcommerce in theseseas.— J.M.

biovernor Dcs Voeux and family leave for Levuka by the A Ibion this evening.

"Truth Seeker" writes urging that some minister of religion should accept Mr Brown's challengo to discuss the various impoitant theological questions in which he differs from them.

Mr C. J. John?tono inquires: "Why have the Mercury Bay Jockey Club handicapped the Maid of the Mill so heavily against Harold and Flora, both of which have per formed at Ellerslie ?"

The protest against the Hattie May in the sweepstakes sailing race was considered last evening, when it was decided that the race should be sailed over again ou Satur day next.

Latest London quotations for New Zea land flax by the mail are :—Superior dried, £22 5s to £25 per ton ; clear, £19 to £20 per ton ; rough and half-cleared, £14 10s to £18 10s per ton; tow, £8 to £10 per ton.

The race between the open sailing boats Hattie May and Imp, for £20 a-side, bas been fixed for Monday next, at noon. Captain W. Farquhar was appointed starter and umpire, and Mr Gallagher stakeholder. The course is from the Queen-street wharf, round the North Shore buoy, thence round a boat at Judge's Bay, and another boat at Stokes' Point, twice round, aud finishing at the starting point To the Editor : Sir,—There is nothing to answer in the letter of "X" in your issue of yesterday, except more weak personali ties, and I do not care to waste time on these. The statement that "truth is mighty enough to leave no hope for the Spiritual- i ists " is a mere assertion, nothing more, and requires proof. "X," however, evades my I challenge. •-I am etc,j Spiritist. j

Mr W. Lodder, manager of the Auckland Steamship Company, will be _ passenger by the s.s. Albion, which leaves this evening. The object of his visit is to endeavour to al-range for the proposed fortnightly steam service^ between Auckland and Levuka. Both Sir Arthur Gordon and Governor Dcs Yccux are anxious that the trips of the Company's steamer should be more fre quent, nnd should the finances of the Fijian colony warrant the expenditure, a vote will be asked in aid of the scheme. Mr Lodder proceeds to Levuka to make inquiries and ascertain necessary information, and on his return the proposed fortnightly trips will receive final consideration.

The following were the latest quotations for kauri gum whon the mail left London : —Scraped sorts, £2 12s to £3 5s per cwt, ; half scraped and small, £1 15s to £2 per cwt. ; rough to dust, 13a to £1 14s per cwt. The European Mail of October 22ud gives the following quotations :—Quiet ordinary soft sold at 48s ; hard dark, 56s to 575; good, 70s to 80.-; palo scraped, 93s to 95s ; superior, £G 15s.

Our locai reiemng to the Tauranga Licensing Court, wag somewhat misleading. There were two Bennetts applying for licenses. In the case of Mr'iif. J. Bennett, the license was not coußidered necessary by the Bench. Mr W. 11. Bonnet's application for the Star Hotel, was adjourned, in ordor that the building may bo erected. Mr Bromiield appeared for Mr Bennct, not for the GoodTomplars.

His Honor Mr Justico Gillies held a lengthy sitting in Chambers this morning, but the inajoiity of tho applications were of a purely formal character, having reference to probate, etc. The issues were settled in the caso ot Mcnchattio v. Thos. Craig (an action for slander), whilo fn several other cases tho settlement of issuc3 was de ferred till Friday. In the matter of O'llal loran v. Ahipcno (in which a verdict was given some niontliß ago), tho plaintill' took out a summons under the Imprisonment for Debt Abolition Act. The remainder of tho business is devoid of public interest.

A visitor to New York says that it is overrun with young hoodlums of both sexes, nursed in idleness, and having no hope in the future. Tho writer attributes to the gambling spirit that pervades the city much of its misfortuues, and see no hope of improvement until it ia rooted out or anew race .of industrial, anti gambling people shall displace the present paralyzed victims of stock gambling, and until §60,000,000 of savings, now entirely devoted to stock gambling, shall be invested in tho expansion of industrial pursuits.

In his introductory lecture, " The Life aud Death of a World," which ho will deliver in the Choral Hull to-morrow even ing, Mr Proctor will explain his theory that a world, or orb, is evolved from a state of intensely heated glowing vapour, aud passes through various stages of cooling uutil it becomes habitable ; then, that it continues to cool and shrink, till it becomes barren and desolate, all trace of moisture and atmosphere having departed. These various stages of a world's existcuco will be exem plified by studies of the sun, the great planets Jupiter and Saturn, the earth, the small planet Mars, ahd our earth's satellite the moon, Tho earth, Mr Proctor cites as an illustration of tho middle life of a planet, and many millions of years, he considers, must elapse beforo it paseos into the next stage of planitary existence. Tho lecture promises to bo of absorbing interest.

When the Premier was in Auckland representations were mado to him by Mr F. J. Moss, M.H.K., of the inconvenience that would he caused by the docisiou of the Government to close tho Post Office in Parnell, aud the small amouut which the office coat, only between £5 and £6 per annum for tho Postmaster's salary. Mr Hall promised to make further enquiry on his return to Wellington, and having dono so regrets that he is unable to consent to the Post Office remaining open after the end of tho year; but adds that Parnell will he served twice daily by letter carriers, aud that a receiving box will bo cstablißhcu and cleared twice a-day, and proper provi sion mado for selling stamps. There may be economy in this airangcmcnt, but it would seem to the ordinary mind that a delivery twice a-day must bo moro costly than a central office to which people sent for their own letters, especially considering how small a sum that offico cost. If tho residents of Parnell desire the post oilico to be continued their only chance is to give expression to that desire by a numerously signed petition to the Postmastcr-Geueral, aud that without delay.

The annual meeting of tho Auckland Billo Associutiou was held last night in the Drill-shed. The attendance was email. Captain Mahon occupied tho chair, and introduced the business. The chict business was the election of olliccrs for the ensuing year. The following were elected :—Presi dent, Mr J, C. Firth; Vice-Prcsideuts, Messrs J. M. Clark, H. Brett, aud R. Beck ; Secretary, Mr J. B. Fairs ; Treasurer, Cap taiu Payne. Committee:—Major Morrow, Messrs Stirling, C. P. Taylor, J. W. Leigh, A. Henderson, A. Woolley, Captain Mahon, and Lieut, Connolly. Vote of thanks, on the motion of Captain Cooper, were accorded to the out-going ollicera. The question of the firing was then considered, and, after some discußsion,it was agreed that tho date should not be later that the 29th of January next.

No. 3 Company and band took their moon light excursion last evening from the wharf to Willow Gardens, The excursion was not quite so largely attended as on the previous occasion, still numbers of citizens availed themselves of a musical opportunity of visiting the suburban quietudes of the Noith Shore. The trip across tho water was delightful, the air being cool and re freshing. The band, under the direction of Mr J. McComish, performed more than half the time of the treat. The gardens, which have fallen into the hands of Mr Shelley, were in good condition and thomany Chiueso lanterns had a very pleasing effect upon the trees. A temporary platform was erected under the willows for the accommodation of the band, and about sixty couples danced upon the lawn, under the direction of Mr Horace Dean, who proved himself equal to the occasion. Others enjoyed swinging, while others again were engaged in close communion in the prettily arranged arboure. A number of fireworks were scut whirling towards the miduight sky, but they were not successful. The excursionists returned at eleven o'clock and reached the whart iv safety and with a gcocral air of satis faction.

Retarn ot sick treated at tho Provincial District Hospital for the week ending Saturday, December 11th, 1880:—Remained last return, 89; admitted since, 20; dis charged. 12 ; died, 1 ; remaining, 96; males, 77; females, 19. Arrangement of cases: Zymotic, 5 ; constitutional, 9 ; local, 47 ; developmental, 19; violent, 16. One death occurred, viz., W. A., aged 7 years, male, on 4th inst., of diseased knee joint. Thanks are returned to threo little girls for hymn books and illustrated magazines, and to Miss Canning for a parcel of old linen.

The Wesleyan Church Bazaar at the North Shore was liberally patronised yes terday by visitors and friends. The weather being very propitious, several features ot interest were introduced into the pro-, gramme, in addition to the usual routine of "come and buy my pretty toys," from tbo fair stall-keepers. A number of musical selections were given, also a microscopic exhibition, illustrated and explained by Mr E. Bar.ley. We understand that the bazaar may bo closed this evening unless the committee see fit to prolong the fancy fair for another forty-eight hours. The proceeds, hitherto, have given general satis faction, having reached the respectable sum of £150, which will considerably reduce the £325 debt on the little church of Devonport, which might be erased by a short and simple process, viz., by the wealthy mem bers of the Wesleyan Church contributing £5 each. The ladies deserve great praise for the labour aud earnestness which they have exhibited throughout.

The subscribers of the Port Albert Medical Club held their anuual meeting in the public hall, Port Albert. The attend ance was not so good as might have been wished. Mr T. Marcroft occupied the chair. Mr G. T. Haitnell, secretary, read the re port of the Committee for the year ending 31st October, which on the whole was very favourable to the success of the Club. The treasurer, Mt Geo. Plummer, gave in his report, which showed a small balance duo to treasurer, but which would be more than covered by outstanding subscriptions, The treasurer's account was ordered to be audited, and report given in next meeting. The report of the secretary was adopted, and votes of thanks wore accorded to both officers. A committee of twenty-three was elected. The secretary and treasurer were re-elected, and together with Messrs C. D. Cray and H. R. C'ayton, were appointed an executive to transact business, not needing the whole committee. Besolutions, as follows, were then adopted : "That unless written notice of relinquish ing connection with the Club be handed in to the secretary, the amount due shall be recoverable. Subscribers three months in arrears shall not be entitled to the benefits of the Club." " That Dr. Rots be requested to charge not less than one guinea to nou snbscribcrs on each occasion his services are required.', Dr. Ross said he was quite willing to adopt this plan.—(A Correspon dent.)

We have received a copy of "The New Zealand Illustrated Annual," just published, the lirst of the kind issued in the colony, which we shall take an early opportunity of reviewing.

The Evangelistic Service in the Young Men's Rooms, last night, was Vi ell attended. The Rev J, S. Hill gave an address full of instruction. The Noon Prayer Meeting to-day was fairly attended. Mr Hill gave an address from Rev. 3 chap. 15 verse : On the need of reality amongst Christian men. These morning meetings are well worth at tending, Mr Hill's addresses being calcula ted to help and strengthen men who aro striving to do light.

'lhe first meeting of creditors in the estate of William Horace Lingnrd, actor, was to have been held this morning, but in consequence of the non-appearance of any ot the interested parties, it Twos adjourned until to-morrow. The assets which ere quite nominal, are stated at £1053, and the liabilities at £1100.

The City of Ogden, in America, is to be lighted with the electric light. Four lights, of 3000 candle power eaoh, will be placed on a flag-stall', at an elevation of 200 feet.

"Poor Tablo Stand," discussing the market squabble, hopes the authorities will take steps to enable small honest tradesmen to have a stand and protect them in earning a living.

The "Bay of Plenty Times" is responsible for the statement that Captain G. B. Morris has been articled for a term of three years to Mr O, M. Quintal, barrister and solicitor, of Willow-street. Tauranga,

Tho Roy. J. S. Hill will rlvo an evange llstio address this ovoning, in tho Yourg Mon'a Rooma, at 7.30.; a cordial invitation is giVon to all who attend the Sunday evoning Theatre Borvlccs.

The mooting this evening in the Pitt street Wosloynn school-room will bo addresaod by Hannah Hall, an American lady, and James 11. Cotton, of Tasmania.

Mrs licvitts next concort will be held on Thursday evening in the Choral Hall. Particu lars In programmo in another column. In tho interval between tho parts tho prizos won at tho Into sports of tho Auoliland Amatour Athletio Club will bo proßontod to tho successful com petitors.

Tho members of the Artillery Band will tako tholr moonlight trip to tho Willow Grove to morrow evening, at half-past Beven o'clook, for whioh ovont numerous preparations havo been made. Tho outcrtalnment in the gardens wilt bo similar to that of last night.

A two-story dwelling and freehold allot ment lust abovo the Turkish Baths in Upper IJueon-Htreot, will bo sold at auction to-morrow by Mr Sibbin.

The Franklyn Road Primitive Methodists will hold their fourth anniversary tea mootln« this Tuoaday oveuinff, at 0.30 p.m. Addresses by milliliters and friends.

A literary and musical entertainment will bo given in connection with tho Nowton West School, Great North Road, on Thursday even- Inn next, commencing at 7.30 p.m. As a special fcaturo of the atfalr Is iho execution of a numbor of Instrumental pieces, no doubt an enjoyable ovoning will be spent.

Working men will have-an opportunity to-morrow to becomo posse-sora o£ freehold furma within oasy ac_esito town. Wo alludo to tho property to bo sold to-morrow, Wednes day, »t 12 o'clock noon, by Moiare, D. Tonka n"d Co. Tho property has been cut up into blocks of from live to ono hundred acres ; good soil, well watered, and udjolns tho Drury Hailwuy St a. ion.

The Registrar for Dogs for the City of Auokland District, Mr Goo. Goldie, will bo In attondanco, at his oilico, Canada Buildings, daily, from 0 a.m. to 10.30 a.m , and from 3 30 p.m to I3j p.m., for registering dog* and Issuing collars, except Saturdays, when he will bo in attendance during tho morning hours only. Wo would advlno all who value their dogs, whether loose or chained, to obtain collars forthwith, as Mr Goldie means business.

The breaking -up entertainment by Churoh of Bngland Grammar School bors. will be held in tho Parnoll Hall on the evening of tho 16th lust, In aid ofthe "Old Boy,' (Scholar ship Fond." A flao programme has been pre pared for tho occasion, and, among othir attractions, will be two .orio comic farces, by the Parnell Sable Orphans, who will malto tholr first appearance. Thoro will be a series of performances, music*!, dramatical and mathe matical, with accompanying music, purposely abupted to tho exerclsos. We notice that Instead ot "children at half prico," the admis sion chargod for babies will be doublo that of adults, aa tho volcos of Infants do not accord vt ith tho piano, and need no other accom panist than tbo mother.

Mr C. W. Goodson, of Quoon-strcet, has succeeded In attracting hundreds of persons to his .hop by the exhibition of his splendid

"Kohinoor," ot beautiful illusions, and dally ohangos.lby tho aid of mirrored gaslight—which is certainly tho most attractive of inventions hithorto wltnocßodby citlz.ns. Tho Instrument ia very ingonlously oonstruotod, gas-jets aro afllxod to tho circular tiers to tho top of a cylindrical column, round which they gradually revolvos; the motion resulting from the force of the gas Isßulng from the small orifices of the pii.es, which aro horizontal instead of vortical, The following brief description ia correct:— "On tho lower tier ot gus-jets aro alllxed "porcelain" rosos, and behind all a series of concave mirrors, the optical ottcot to the eyo boing that as tho jots and loses revolved they assumed, [through iho aid of tho mirrors, a hundred forms of beauty. The whole of tho revolving fabric Is sustainod by a noodle which makes its gyrations 'in a glass ihimble, bo that tho friction il. unflnitesimal." Mr Goodoon's now ftocn of fanoy and ornamental goods suit able for Chrintmnß presents ia worthy of in spection ; consisting of evory possible variety, and adayted to overy kind of use; and af remark ably low pri'o". Among the novelties, we noticed ladles' window dispatch box, tblmbio cases, albumß,mu»lcartops, ecrap-books. wrltlng deiks, jewel-cases, elopliant inkstands, book slideß, instruments of mv- 10, scrap-book illustra tion-,|ornamontal clocks,lncluding "My Grand father'b" and" Humphrey's " clock; and last, but not least, the mlnliterial parse, containing present nnd past ministers, and postal and othor information, Porsons in touch of noveltiea will do well to inaoeot Mr Good son's immonso Christmas stock of seasonable goods.

Scintillations.

"Be brief; for it is w th words as with sun beams: tho mora thoy aro condensed, the deeper thoy burn."—Soimiay.

To step on a man's corn goes against his grain. Printers arc not good bakers, but they aro great on " pi." Adam was the first gambler, for ho lost all in a pair-o '.dice.

A good thing to re-collect if you can- Debts.

A lawyer's advice is of greater value than a friend's. He charges for it.

Mr Dc Lias telegraphs from Napier that the Lingarda will open at the Theatre Royal ou tho 21st inst. in " Stolen Kisses."

An Ohio newspaper speaks of a man being bruised by tho " emphatic gesture of a mule."

Captain Morris is endeavouring.to raise funds for the prospecting party iv tho Kaimai ranges, " The worm mill tu.n." And tho book worm will not always return—the volumes he borrowed.

The dealer in salt mnst have a precarious time of it, The salt cellar, you know, is always getting overturned. At" the sale of Waimate land on deferred payment yesterday 81 applications were received.

John Wilson, 67 years of age, committed suicide at Christchurch by cutting his throat. The cause was financial troubles.

The renovation of Admiralty Houso is beiug proceeded with. How many more times is it to be renovated ?

The Tauranga peoplo want the Govern ment to expend £1,500 on a road across the ranges so as to open up communication with To Aroba.

It is understood that the contract with the U.S.S. Company for the conveyance of the Suez mails betweeu Melbourne and the Blulf, and which expires shortly, will not be renewed.

The movement for the establishment ot a woollen factory iv Hawke's Bay has col lapsed; but the beet-root sugar question is now being agitated. The Waitara River was flooded yester day, and several carcases of cattle and pigs were carried out to sea. Above the bridge about half an acre of land was carried away.

His Excellency tbe Governor of Fiji, and Lady Dcs Voeux thank the Auckland citi zens for their many kind inquiries, and re gret their inability to acknowledge them in person owing to their recent domestic be reavement.

New Zealand entries for the Victorian wool show, January exhibition, amount to 23, consisting of - Merino, washed, 1; un washed, 1; longwool, washed, 5; un washed, 14; scourea, 2.

Iv the 48 hours' walking match at Adelaide, .Edwards walked 172 miles; Bray, 147 miles ; Gibson, 134 miles, Ed wards conies to New Zealand,

James O'Brien, the " Irish American," needed not his name to proclaim him an Irishman. His statement "that there are 500,000 stout men in America who would die happy if they could each kill one cursed Saxon," is peculiarly HibcrniaD. The 500,000 "stout" men (not thin), must be anxious to revive tbe story of the Kilkenny Cats on a grand scale. It will be noted also that it is only the "cursed" Saxons who have incurred the dire hatred of the 500,000 stout men.

Waimate Land Sale.

[BY TELEGRAPH, PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

HAWEA, this day. One hundred AND five applications were received for deferred payment land, 25 at Hawea, 22 at Patea, aud four sections were uncontested. James Courniford, farmer, Waitotara, John William Barnes, labourer, Blenheim, John Bently, settler, Welling, ton, and James Wilson, platelayer, were the successful applicants. No, 1 section, block 5, was the only section not applied tor. Large numbers are here, and the competi tion is likely to be more brisk than at the first sale.

TELEGRAMS.

[FEOM OVB. OWN COERBSPONbEST.]

RUSSELL, this day. The Taiarua has not yet ariived from Sydney. , The Manganese Company is getting a good show ot mangauese.

TIMARU, Monday,

Mr Wakefield to-night, addressed a crowded meeting. Fully 200 persons were present, and attentively listened to and frequently applauded the speaker. At the conclusion of the address a vote of thanks and confidence was passed almost Unani mously.

DUNEDIN, Monday.

FAtAL GUN ACCIDENT

An accident happened on Saturday even ing which resulted in the death of Alfred Kisslingbury, aged thirteen years. He, with his brother and a^umber of com panion's, went out shooting skylarks and rabbits, and had two cuns with them— one single nnd the other double,barrelled; John Kisslingbury wits carrying the doublo ■ barrelled gun. When in one of Mr R. B. Martin's paddocks, ho was iv tho act of placing the right - hand hammer on the nipple, when the 1-jft barrel exploded, and the contents lodged in Alfred's side, causing almost instantaneous death. Alfred cried, " Oh, Jack, you have shot me." John said, " Alf, are you dead?'' and Alf. replied, "Not quite." Deceased's brother then called out to the other boys to help him, but they all ran away except two, with whose assistance the wounded lad was carried to Mrs Sim's house, when ha ex pired almost imracdiatbly.

DUNEDIN, this day. In the inquest on Keisenbcrg, tho jury returned n verdict of accidental death.

SALE OF FIREARMS TO BOYS,

Iv Klßslingbury's c_3e the jury returned (his rider : " The jury are of opinion that the Govt rnment should issue or institute a gun license which would have the effect of preventing in a great measure, if not en tirely, the salo of firearms to boys.'' Birkwood forfeits his deposit in the trot ting match n£aiu..t Native Cat.

PROPOSED INTERCOLONIAL FOOT,

BALL TEAM,

Tho " Times " says : " We hear on good authority that the idea of sending an Aus tralian football team to England in a few months has now assumed a delinito aspect, and tho men will be picked in a few days with the consent of the leading football clubs of the colony. Mew Zealand will be repiescnted by Murray, Sweete, and Ham nierton.

Munay, Sweet, and Hamertor, are merely suggested as tho suitable representatives of the Utago Footballers, The Northern Clubs aro to bo invited to nominate thcira.

Fatal Mining Accident.

(BY TELEGRAM!, PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

GREYMOUTH, this day. YESTERDAY an accident occurred ou the lead at the Seventeen Mile Beach, by which a miner named Michael Kerry lost his life. It is conjectured that the giving way of a false set of was the caueo of the disaster. Every assistance was given by lhe miners, but life was extinct before Kerry could be released.

Sporting.

BETTING QUOTATIONS.

The latest quotations at Tattersall's last evening were as follow :—

Auckland Cup.—Lo Loup, 100 to 10, ofl'ered ; Ariel, 100 to 7, offered; Sinking Fund, 100 to 7, offered; Lara, 100 to 20, ofiered; Grand Duchess, 100 to 8, offered; Vampire, 100 to 3 offered ; Rewi, 100 to 3, offered ; Badsworth, 100 to 3, offered ; Tim Whifllcr, 100 to 3, offered ; Lone Band, 100 to 5, offered ; Rosarina, 100 to 4, offered ; Foul Play, 100 to 50, offered ; Betrayer, CO to 40, offered ; Libeller, 100 to 10, offered ; Maid of Honour, 100 to 8, offered; King Quail, 100 to 10, offered; Gilderoy, 100 to 3, offered; Kenilworth, 100 to 3, offered; Yatapa, 100 to 6, offered ; Ada mant, 100 to 5, offered ; Mataua, 300 to 1, offered ; Golden Crown, 100 to 1, offered. Steeplechase.—Lone Hand, 100 to 50, offered; Agent, 100 to 50, offered; Mig nonette, 100 to 10 offered; Sportsman, 100 to 25, offered ; Don Juan, 100 to 10, offered ; Jack Sheppard, 100 to 12, offered; Ghoßt, 100 to 20, offered. Mr Smith, of tho Occidental Hotel, is fitting up an upstair room for the accommo dation of the Club, which will also be avail able during the day as a reading and writing room. It is proposed, as soon as the Club is in a position to do so, to form a reference library, and to procure the latest sporting periodicals from all parts of the world.

The nominations for tho Napier Handicap of 500sovs., If miles, Railway Handicap of lOOsovs., J-mile, Handicap Hurdles, of 15050v8., for tho Autumn Meeting, and nominations for the Hawke's Bay Guineas of 1882, close with the secretary of the Hawke's Bay Jockey Club on Saturday next.

POLICE COURT.-This day.

(Before R. C. Barstow, Esq., R.M.)

NANCY ON THE HOP. Annie Hogan was discovered last night in Fort-street, delivering an apostrophe to Luna. As tho unfortunate woman was very loud in her declamation, Constable M. Walker took her into custody. Prisoner, a line tall young woman, had been to the oxcursion to the North Shore, and on landing at the wharf took a drop too much. Fined 5s and costs.

AXE-ING AND COLLARING!.

Thomas Chappell was charged with threatening to collar Hanuah Jones, and Hannah Jones was charged with threaten ing to axe Sarah Chappell, ou the 6th inst. The parties lived in Nelson-street and had a " tiff, which resulted in a series of threats which were not carried out.

The partios mutually agreed to .efctlc their differences out of Court, and solicited a withdrawal of the counter charges, to which His Worship consented.

CHARGE AGAINST MR DE LISLE HAMMOND,

A. de Lisle Hammond appeared in answer to a charge of striking Arthur Burgoyne Heather on tho leg with a cane at Parnell, on the 6th instant, and leaving a mark thereon.

Mr Tyler appeared for defendant and said that Mr Heskath, who appeared for com plainant, had agreed tv an adjournment of the case.

Adjourned until Saturday,

The Mormon Fraud.

We have received from Mr J, T, Luunon, formerly a Mormon priest at Christchuroh, who left here with Elder Fearce for Utah, with a number of immigrants, the following copy of a letter which he has addressed to several of the newspapers throughout the colony :—" To the Editor of the Auckland Star : Sir,—As I have been informed that there is another exodus ot poor, deluded Mormon victims shortly leaving New Zea land for Utah, and as I have had some experience of the Mormon Church, I con sider it my duty before God and man to in form my fellow-countrymen what class of society they intend joining, and a few doctrines of the Mormon faith, which are not taught to them in New Zealand. The Mormon priesthood, as a rule, consist of liars, debauchees, and mur derers, who are shakiug with fear that the truth should come to light. I will begin with John Taylor, the present President of the Mormon Church, who stated in a public debate while in France, that a plurality of wives was neither taught nor practised iv Utah, and read a passage from their Book of Doctrines to prove, while at the same timo he had four wives living in Utah. Orson Pratt, the apostle/ and their champion debater on polygamy has ad vised and counselled many young girls to marry into polygamy to old men that they might be saved, as the young men were not tried in the Kingdom of God and could not save them. In many instances he has caused young women to break off engage ments with young men whcm they loved, to gratify a bishop's preference, a mission ary's feelings, or an elder's desires. I have written this as information for the deluded ones in New Zealand, and should they let this go unheeded they will be like the last batch of Mormons from that colony who arrived here and have now left I 1 tab for other Slates of America, grieving for the homes which they broke up in New Zealand. Mormonism ia nothing but a well-organised system of dis loyalty and deception, which is luring thousands to poverty every year. If some of the Mormon elders had their deserts they would have been in gaol, even while in New Zealand, for indecent assault or something worse. 1 could tell a long story of their action iv New Zealand, and were I there I would expose each one of them, but distance prevents my doing more than giving the present warning to the public."

CABLEGRAMS.

EUROPEAN.

[R.EUTKE'S TEIiitOR AMS.J

THE BOERS IN REBELLION;

LONDON, December 13

The latest intelligence to hand from tho Cape states that the Boers are threatening rebellion. This, however, is not expected to take place.

COERCION IN IRELAND,

LONDON, December 13,

At a Cabinet Council held to-day by Ministers, Mr W. E. Forster, Secretary for Ireland, insisted upon adopting coercive measures in Irelaud. The immediate assembly of Parliament is quite possible. DEATH OF MADAME THIERS.

PARIS, December 13,

Obituary I Madame Thiers, wife of the late M. Thiers, formerly President of the French Republic.

CALCUTTA,. December 13.

the Marquis oi. ripon.

The Marquis of Ripou has had a relapse, and his medical attendants state that he is much worse.

LATEST WOOL SALES,

LONDON, December 11,

The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency report under date London, 11th December :—At the wool sales on the 11th tho market for scoured was unchanged- Superior scoured wool advanced __ to Id per lb. In greasy the market is unchanged, Clothing washed is firmer, and the comb ing washed market is also firmer. Fine cross-bred was firmer, but coarse cross bred has declined Id to ljd per lb. Iv merino and lambs-wool the market is firmer. A good many second-hand parcels have been offered during the past sales. The sales comprised about 114,000 bales, nnd 16,000 bales have been held over for future disposal, consisting chiefly of Cape of Good Hope wools. 50,000 bales were oaken for export.

THE TALLOW MARKET. Tallow is in fair demand, best mutton being worth £35 and best beef £33 per ton. Yesterday's public sales of Australasian have comprised 3,000 cask?. Stocks of all sorts amount to 14,000 packages. BANK DISCOUNT. The Bank of England rate of discount is 3 per cent.

LONDON, December 6,

Much uneasiness prevails in the southern districts of Ireland. It is tcared that an organised outbreak may at any moment occur. The authorities have been informed that an enormous quantity of arms has been recently purchased. Active measures of precaution have been taken, and the local garrison have been considerably augmented, in order to be prepared for any emergency. The greatest excitement prevails In the city of Waterford, and through the country. Most bitterly the hostile feeling is mani fested against the landlords, and the police aud military are subjected to in sult. Disturbances of a serious character have occurred, and it is feared that cevere measures of repression will be necessary. A convoy, conveying ammunition and stores to the troops in the field, was attacked near Mailing by a strong body of natives, who attempted to carry off a number of waggons. The military guard succeoded in beating off theasßailants, who were repulsed with considerable loss.

Another outrage is reported from Irelaud. A disturbance arose at Ballicady, a town on the river Bridge, five miles west of Cork. The dragoons stationed there to protect ihe artillery barracks and gunpowder mills were called out, and in attempting to suppress tho outbreak one of the dragoons was shot.

It is understood that tho Government have decided to withdraw the British troops at present stationed at Kandahar under Gen. Hume. The complete evacuation of the country will be gradual, but immediate slops will be taken to give effect to the proposal of the Cabinet,

Communications have been exchanged between the Great Powers respecting the desirability or otherwise of continuing the arrangement of maintaining tho combined fleet until Turkey fully acquiesces in the demands made under the stipulations of the Treaty of Berlin. Tbe decision reported to have bean arrived at! is, to withdraw the fleet, and abandon any turther attempt at coercing the Sultan by means of a naval demonstration.

The Russian Government repudiates any ulterior designs in connection with Turkey, and is anxious to assist in bringing about a satisfactory settlement of the fulfilled con dition to the Berlin Treaty.

The Czar, who since his marriage with the Princess Dolgoroukie had been residing at Lividia, in the Crimea, returned to St. Petersburg, and resumed the active duties of the Emperor. The race which was ordered to be rowed over again between Pricket and Ross, for £200 aside, came off to-day over the Thames champion course, and resulted in Ross beating Trickett, and winning by five lengths. After his victory over Trickett on Satur day, Wallace Boss has issued a challenge to row Laycock, proposing that the match should be tor the benefit of his defeated opponent, Trickett. Laycock has not re plied, but it is not considered likely that he will enter into any arrangement until after the contest with Hnulan.

AUSTRALIAN.

REMNANTS OF BURKE AND WILLS,

SYDNEY, Tuesday,

The three camels ivhich belonged to the Burke and Wills' expedition in 1860-61 have been captured near the Wilccnnia, on the Darling* River, in the north-west ot this colony. BANK REDUCTIONS,

BRISBANE, Tuesday,

The Queensland Banks have reduced their rates of interest ou deposits to 2, 3, and 4 per cent, for 3, 6, and 12 months respec tively, nnd their rates of discouut have been reduced to 6, 7, aud S per cent, for 3 and 4 months and beyond respectively.

TE AROHA GOLDFIELDS.

(BY TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

GRAHAMSTOWN, this day. Beyond the discovery of gold in the Bon anza, on the Prospectors leader, which they were trenching for the purpose of intersect ing near the boundary of their claim, there is little fresh to report to-day. Everything else is quiet. The prospectors have driven about 40 feet into their lower working, and expect to cut the reef in about 35 feet more. Of course, all eyes are turned towards this work, for by the result Te Aroha will staud or fall. The discovery of good gold iv the adjoining ground, and especially the development in tho Bonanza, only some 35 feet below the premier lode, shows an improvement, which should be re garded most favourably by those interested in the welfare of the place.

The Trial of Tuhi.

[BY TELEGRAPH, PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

WELLINGTON, this day. The charge of murder against Tuhi is still occupying the Court. There arc 20 wit nesses yet to be examined, and it is not likely the case will conclude until to morrow.

The Island Massacres.

(From Sydney Papers.)

Sydney, December 6. The schooner Leslie, which arrived to-day, reports that a vessel has been wrecked at Baki Isle, Bougainville Island, and some of the crew poisoned by the natives. The captain became ill and died, and was eaten. It stated also that some friendly natives organised an extensive expedition against the Bougainville natives, for the purpose of avenging their deaths.

Captain Fcrgusson, of HM.S. Emerald, is only waiting instructions from Commo dore Wilson to start for the Solomon Islands. The crew of the Sandfly are to go on board the Emerald. Her destination is Florida and Bougainville and Treasury Isles. She takes presents for the friendly chiefs. The captain sails with secret orders, but it is stated that instructions have been re ceived from England for the adoption of severe measures of suppression among the Kanakas.

The schooner Buele reports that Captain Murray, and three of the crew of the Lurla cutter, were killed at Port Wetter by the natives. The captain bad traded with the natives, and the latter refused to deliver copra. He went to remonstrate to the lead ing chief's house, when he was fired upon and killed. The crew were overpowered and killed. The natives then fled into the bush.

THE SAN FRANCISCO MAIL

Our [London Letter.

[FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT,]

London, November 4th, LONDON fogs are most disagreeable. We have had a succession of them during the last month, and our only anxiety now is to get somewhere away from them. NEW ZEALAND FINANCE. New Zealand has had some pretty, rough knocks from the financial papers both here and in Scotland, and the financial repoit of the Colonial Treasurer will he eagerly scanned at the next opening of Parliament The impression seems to gain ground here that New Zealand, when she can borrow no longer, will cease to pay the interest on her debt, and will, in fact, become bankrupt. MR VESEY STEWART'S PARTS'.' Mr Veacy Stewart has packed off in the Lady Jocelyn about 200 immigrant?; ana has formed his settlement business into a land company, called the New -lealafid Land Corporation, and he is now diligently striving to attract retired military men and the like of small means to liis recent purchase, To Puke. He is going to lay out a town at once. They will find 50 or 60 residences already _ erected for their aicoinmoflation, and in fact he offer so many inducements, that any one-having the best knowledge of colonial life, instinctively feel their left forefinger crawling up to one Bide of their nose, and their lips take the form of saying " Too thin; too thin Vesey," ATROCIOUS MURDERS, Crime is very rampant here just now. Last week a man who was half paralyzed murdered a poor little girl at Acton, near London. She was only 11 years of ago, and had been left by her father and step-mother to mind tho house and two smaller children; Savey was in the employ of the father, and was engaged painting a fenfce outside the house. He was asked to give an eye to the chilaren. Savey did all tbjs and mdre. He assaultfed thb young giil and stabbed her several times in the throat. Her father on his return, when chtering, stumbled against her body. Savey was arrested the next day at a workhouse where he was seeking admission. The jury at the coroner's inquest found him guilty of murder. Another occurrence happened at Finsbury Park. A man call°d Herbert who has been home a few months from Australia, had enticed his wife's sister away from her husband (Messenger), and she had been living with him for some time. About three weeks ago, however, she decided to return to her husband which so exasperated Herbert that he (after persuading her to accompany him for a walk m Finsbury Park) deliberately shot her three times, and then shot himself in the abdomen. He was at once arrested and taken to the hospital, where he is recovering, The woman, however, died before any assistance could be rendered, The jury returned hero a verdict of wilful murder against Herbert. In Manchester, at about ten o'clock one night last week, a police man saw a man wheeling a hand-cart containing a very suspicious looking object- On being questioned the man told the policeman to mind his own business, which he proceeded to do by carefully watching the cart, and he saw before it had gone many yards a human leg fall over. He arrested the man, who first said it was his wife, but this statement was false. It turns ont that the deceased woman was living with a chemist named Hartley, who is arrested together with the industrious hand-cart man named Smithson, and a man called Bardsly, who engaged him to do this work. There is a great mystery attending the case, as at a post mortem examination it was found the brain of the dead woman was diseased, and sufficiently so to cause death, but there is grave doubts as to whether or not there has been violence. There has been a double murder in Kent, and in fact crime appears to be on the rampage.

THE IRISH QUESTION,

The Irish question is assuming a very acute foim. Mr Parnell and his party are tryibg to raise the country to open rebellion. Be distinctly says he will not be drawn into an argument of what they want. All he says is that " When the time is ripe a set tlement will be easily found." In the meantime, he says, they muat '* bring the landlords to theirl knees." Altogether, I think the whole crowd of leaders of the Land League are great frauds. With the exception of Parnell and one or two others they don't own an acre of property, and they arc at present living well on the gulli bility of the poor labourer. If Mr Parnell and his crowd really had tho interests of their country at heart, as he says, "a set tlement could soon be found." But the Goverumcnt will have to step in and put down this crime and murder policy. The Queen has given the widowed Lady Mountmorris a suite of apartments at Hampton Court.

FOREIGN TROUBLES,

At the Cape we have another war on hand, and Sir Hercules Robinson will not have a bed of roses. Sir Bartle Frere went there in very high fig, but how did he come away ? All is uncertainty as regards Afghanistan. There is a rumour that J the Amir has been assassinated at Kabul, but this requires confirmation. If true we shall have te go at it again. There is great difference of opinion as to the retention of Kandahar, The ministry are in favour of our evacuation of that country, but the India Council seem to be greatly in favour of annexation The Turks are still busy at diplomacy, and the combined fleets still stay in the Mediter ranean. It is fully expected that Dulcigno will begivenup to Montenegro. Franceseems to have completely backed out of the posi tion she took up at the Berlin Congress as regards Greece, and she is now so peacefully inclined that she will leave Greece to her self, Germany is supplying tbe great Turk with all the brains now. It was found he could get no more money out of England, aud that the British Government had dropped down to him, had, in fact, dis co, ered what a cheat and a humbug be was that the Turk determined to play off another card. It remains to be seen whether tho Turk or Biemarck will be the rioter. at any rate there will be no money from Germany, and, clever as he is, the Turk cannot get blood out of a stone.

STORM IN ENGLAND.

I There was a very severe storm passed over England last week, great parts of the country being flooded. The rain fell so fast that the rivers overflowed their banks, and washed away crops, cattle, and hnraan beings. Altogether the destruction of life and property has been very great. At sea the destruction of property has been immense, and I see by an article in tho " Times" that it is estimated that the loss of British and Foreigu shipping is upwards of £4,000,000, and of this £3,000,000 Bri tish—l6l vessels were lost on the British coasts alone. A life boat capsized at Wells on Friday last, and eleven of the crew were drowned.

THE ELECTRIC LIGHT,

A Company is in course of formation called the "Electric and Magnetic Com pany." Their object ia to develop the application ot electricity, and for other purposes. They are to take over the business ofthe Societb Gdndralcd'£lectricit6 of Paris, as far as regards the United Kingdom and hor colonies aro concerned. After a year's experience the Metropolitan Board of Works have renewed all their con tracts for electric lighting by the Jablock koff process. They (tho Company) claim that comparing the cost of the electric light equal to 1,000 standard candles at 2jd per light per hour with equivalent gaslight at 3s 4d per 1,000 cubic feet, the electric light shows a saving of 3d per hour, or about 25 per cent, on the cost of gas. Thi3 is all very well; but how many people want 1,000 candles burning all at once?

RITUALISM.

The prosecutions against Ritualism still proceed, aud in the case of Mr Pelhani Dale, the rector of St. Vedast, they have reached their inevitable conclusion. He is now posing as a martyr in Hollowayprison. People seem to take very little interest in the matter, except to think that Mr Pelham Dale is wanting a tile in his upper garret, and that if he will run bis.head con trary to the law of the land he must abide tho consequences.

THE CZAR'S YACHT.

The Czar's yacht " Livadia," of which I wrote you before, has been very successful, and passed through a very severe storm as she was crossing the Bay of Biscay. She was as steady as a rock. She burns a lot of coals, bufstill she steams well. People seem to think this will cause rather a revo lution in shipbuilding.

DAIRY SHOW IN LONDON.

Last week there was a dairy show at the Agricultural Hall, Islington. Some very fine cattle were exhibited. The shorthorns were very large and so were the Du'ch cattle. The greatest number of exhibi.s were Jersey and Guernsey cattle. They are very pretty little fawn-colored cattle, reminding one of the East Indians except that they aro minus the hump. The Americans as usual came out strong in large cheeses, but the palm goes to tho Contmen. for quality. Aa far as ..potted bu,tter ft

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR. TUESDAY

DECEMBER 14,



AS OBSERVl

ID A'

ELEI

Ap:

I STATIONS.

JE3DA

.V.

iece:

IER

11.

Station.

Manukau.... Thames Tauranga.... Napier Taranakl.... Wanganul... Wellington.. Nelson Grey ran utta.. Lyttelton.... Timaru Oamaru Pt. CholmerB Bluff-

Win fl o ■a . a a a S.E. c. 3.E. V.K. N.H-. N.E. C. C. HI. N.B. S. N.E. U.K. N.H.

id. I

O L L.B F.B Br. h. Br.

o s s s p. 2920 3U.07 30.01 30.80 30.20 30.06 29.93 29 90 30.0C 29.91 29.95 30.0- .9 96 29.95

01 13 a a C o a 55 62 01) 03 58 '.*. 01

CO I c3

State of Sea, Bar, or Rivers.

clear breaks

h

B.C r; b!c B. B.C B.C B B.C B.C C. B.C 0. B.C

slight swell sea .month sua smooth sea smooth

Br. U L. L. U

sea smooth

58 61

sea smooth sea smooth

52 51



M. IVI UR C H I E MERCHANT TAILOR AND IMPORTER. FRESH ARRIVALS. English asd Scotch Tweeds-7 cases by 'Loohnagar' Sebgb Suitings in Bluo and Black, of a New Make and Finlßh Something Nrw in Bannoekburn Tweeds, which was awarded Ist ifrizo ai the Sydnoy inhibition Saxony Tweeds in Blue and Blc or, of superior Quality and new design. Another Consignment to arrivo by 'Fernglen. -,S^?l esi% u2__ t0 an 7 aadress. Tho Immense quantity of ClothlnK we ship to the largo cities Orders by mattwiu receive our best attention. WANTED, four Flrst-claas Tailors, to whom M. MURC HI E, t Oppo_lto Aroh. Clark Se don's, g|j||k BIWUTIAWD iJIUKKT,



Special Advertisements. J f^OBGRAVE & no., At theib Premises, Queen-street, WILL MAKE A GENERAL SHOW OF THEIB VTEW OUMMER SHIPMENTS 1 THIS DAY, Together with Important SPHCIAL LOTS, Purchased at Large Discounts by our representativo from various Manu facturers, as below stated. The FANCY DRESS DEPARTMENT contains all the Newest Goods of the Season, In Pompadours, Lustres, Casbmere and Beiges. Tho MILLINERY DEPARTMENT onnlßts of tho Choicest Designs in Hats nnd Bonnets, Ladies' and Childrens' CO-tumes, Visettes and Dolman's Laos, Bertha's Flowers and Feathers. The SILK DEPARTMENT , ia replete with the Newest Shodeß in Velvets, Silks and Ribbons. We call particular attention to our Stook of BLACK SILKS, which ia tho Largest in the colony. Our Stook of Ladies' UNDERCLOTHING is Large and Well-assorted, 'and contains all tho Neweat Makes and Stylos, Ladles' and Children's Jerseyß In all colours. In the MANCHESTER DEPARTMENT we are Offering Particularly Good Value in White and Grey Calicos, Sheetings and Flannels. T /COSGRAVE & i^O. are now offering Great Advantages to the Public, as iuei Import their GOODS from the Best English and French Mancfacterbes, and are SELLING AT WHOLESALE PRICES. SAARLAND'S BAKING POWDER, is made with GRAPE CREAM TARTAR, Imported from the Wine Dietrlot of France. it is The Perfection of Baking Powder, Always PURE, WHOLESOME, AND UNIFORM. Testimonial i I havo chemically examined and tested the Baking Powder manufactured by Sharland Se Co., and I have found it to bo perfectly pure, and free from any substance that would beobieo tionable in the preparation of food. I use tho Bread made with it at my own table, and find it very patisfactory.—C. H. Haines, 8.A..M.D., MCh., L.A.H., F.R.G.S., L.M. Proprietors : ' SHARLAND & CO., Wholesale Druggists & Manufacturing CHEMISTS, Auckland. Sold by all Grocors and Storakoopers, in can isters, at la 6d and 2a Od each. CM. "jE Clii L NOTICE. O Wo.I the'undersigned, respe if nil Invitoithe Inspection of tho Ladies of|Auckland and the surrounding district to the factlithat] we are Opening up a A LARGE AND VARIED ASSORTMENT OF ENGLISH, FRENCH, & AMERICAN GOODS, IN MILLINERY, HOSIERY GLOVES, FEATHERS FLOWERS, LACES Sec, Sec Sec, DUNNE, HALL, & CO., 174, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND Opposite the Thistle Hotel). mHE MERIDEN BRITANNIA CO MANUFACTURERS OF THE HIGHEST GRADE OF SILVER PLATED WARE, oth ON NICKEL SILVER AND WHITE METAL.



Sample Booms and Offices—l 6, Hast Fourteenth street, Union Square, New York. Factories—West Meriden, Connecticut. | Sole Agents or; the North Island, I ■" *•.."-. MORRIN TJTT INKS& ETALL. HAVE REMOVED FROM SHORTLAND-STREET TO TEMPORARY PREMISES IN FORT STREET, OPPOSITE COCHRANE AND SON'S AUCTIOS MART, AND WILL CONTINUE THBIR CHEAP SAL! FOR A FEW WEEKS LONGER, TO CLEAR SURPLUS STOCK, THEY WILL REMAIN IN FORT-STREET DURING THE RE-BUILDING OF THEIR WARE HOUSE IN SHORTLAND-STREET. upr ing qhow, 1880. Summer Show, isso-i. y\ pUBK ri AS H Q YSTBT /P \ ALL DRAPERF & CLOTHING / 0. S. \ AT \ - /CO-OPERATIVE CASI Y e/ PRICES, \y AT THK piTY TTALL ARCADE, GARLICK & CRANWELL, Proprietors. I 17'0U will readily mset with what will sul X you in DRKBSEB at onr Establishment, a we have all the NEWEST STYLES i Pompadour and Plain Materials, In 811_ Cambrics and Prints, Lustres, Freud Beiges, Sateens, Cashmeres, and the Le dies' Favourite, " The Princess of Wales. GARLICK fc CRANWELL. PINAFORES— SKIRTS-Tastily Trimme Very cheap. SILK S.—With the greatest confidence w assert the CHBAPE3T Black and Coloure Silks are now being offered by us. SPECIAL- Lyons Gros Grain at Is 6d, Ss, 5s Cd Only Two-thirds their Value. Coloured—New Shades—4a 3d, 5s 6d China Silk—a Bargain. GOLD AND SILVER TRIMMINQS-Bugle Seaweed—Fringes for Dresses Millinery Trimming., of all kinds New Gauzes, just arrived—various colour PORCUPINE HATS, BERNHARDTTmARI BOROUGH, and all the Leading Shape Trimmed Hats and Bonnets Hats from lid upwards DUNSHADES.froui is.—An Immense Varied O in Pompadour, Zenella, Silk and Satin j GLOVES.-Open Laoe, Fancy Top. Silk, am Lisle Thread Gloves Kid Gloves, 1,2,3, i, 6, and 8 Buttons Two Button Kid at Is lid and 2s (Ligh and Dark). (The Principal Glove Warehouse.) LD GOLD AND CREAM LACES, FRII LINGS, &o. Pelerines, Braid and Bugle Collarets Fichus, &o. Rofflings, Fancy Scarves Ladies' and Children's Under Clothing NOVELTIES Opened up EVERY WEBK and Sold at Co-operative Casi Prices. QPLENDID Lot of CRETONNES Just Un O packed. 8d to 2a 6d per yard. BANKRUPT STOCK of Men's and Boy_ Clothing and Mercery. Now beinj SOLD at Robinson's Cost, and Manu facturers' Prices by GARLICK Sc CRANWELL. VERY CHEAP TABLE DAMASKS, from li 6d per yard. E would remind the Pnblle we haT< SACRIFICED a Credit Trade for the sake of establishing the pO-OPERATIVE pASH OYSTEM We Open no New Accounts for Dra pory. We LOSE Customers who oak foi Credit ; all we ask in return is a Liberal Support by Caßh Bayers, to enable us to continue what is a Pabllo Benefit Our Goods are very Carefully Bought, and Marked at a Very Small Percentage over Cost, and we must do a Laroe Bosiness to continue the System, and the Larger our "Turn Over''the more our Cuetcraera will Benefit by their . onpport QARLICK & /^RANW^LL, CITY I.HALL lARCADE. QUEKN STREET,



Special Advertisements. T> AKI NG- -p.O WDE R, HOW TO TEST IT? NoarlyallßaklngPowders are adulterated with something that increases the bulk and lowers the cost. Such as "Flour," "Rloe Flour," " Cheap Arrowroot," or "Potato© Starch." Xheso aro found in various proportions, from 2u% to ovon 75% in the low-priced article. TRY your Baking Powder by putting a tea spoonful ia a tumbler of clear water—it it con-; tains farina the water will bo milky and thick; Btand the glass i'or an hour in a sate place and it will deposit the larlna; pour off the water ; dry tho powder on blotting paper, and its nature will be apparent, HUDSON'S New Zealand Baking Powder Will STAND tho TEST. Manufactured Solely by HUDSON (Late Hill and Hudson), CHEMIST, VICTORIA-STREET. Can bo Bought of the Maker, and of any Gr ocr in Is Gd and 2a Cd tin.. "YTEW Z^IOODS And "VTOVELTIES for Tna TTOLIDAY QEASON AT RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN'S, A Choice Lot of LADIES* NEW LACK AND SILK CAPES SILK SQUARKS. Etc. L A C Ji FICHUS, A JOB LINE VERY CHEAP. SON SHADES AND UMBRKLLAS. Ribbons, Gloves, &c. NEW AND SEASONABLE DRESS MATERIALS In Very Great Variety. ir_tsome job lines very cheap. tea PRINTS, satbeNS, PO MPADOUR. GALATEA STRIPES, ETC. GENERAL AND FURNISHING DRAPERY of every dbscriplton. Summer Clothing For Boys' and Men's Wear. SILK DUST COATS, ALPACA and HOLLAND COATS. Full Stocks of



WHITE SHIRTS, OXFORD SHIRTS, TIES, SCARVES, COLLARS, &C. Straw, Leghorn and Rush Hats, of all kinds for Hoys and Men. Is in the & Discount allowed npon all Cash Purchases ot 20s and Upwards. "DUSHBROOK & T3RIDGMAN JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE [Opposite tho Army and Navy note,], Upper Queen-street, Auckland.