SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

Hirti? \i .ipvo i This Evening, 9.36 HiHH \, Ar.-iK-, T(MUorrow Morning, 3.55 !*UN BKT.—This Evening. 6.15 RIGW,—To-Morrow ?,;uining. 6.4 MOON'S AGK.-Firet Quarter, i9tb, 0.15 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

LAST EVENING. ■Argylo, p.s., Crawford, for Wflangarei Agnes Donald, schooner, Murray, for Raro tonga.

TO-DAY.

Tararua, s.s., Muir, from Sydney James A Stewart, brngatitine, from Omsru Flirt, brigantine. McDormid. from Lyttelton Minnie Haw. srhoouor, Skinner, from H. Coast ady Don, Schooner, Pullman, fcom Russell

DEPARTURES.

last evening. to-day.

VESSELS EXPECTED. Caledonia, schooner, from Tonga. Maoeppo, schoonor, from Rarotonga. Sovereign of tho Sea", cutter, from New Cale donia. Bismarck, 11.1.G.M.5., from Samoa Flirt, brigantine, from Timaru. Tubal Cain, schooner, from Levuka. Marion, schooner, from Norfolk Island. Elinor Vernon, barquo, from New York; Eailed lOth November Trevelyan, ship (V.N.H.S.), from London ; load-

ing. City of Quebec, barque, from London. Oamille, brig, from Nov York Look Out, brigantin-.-, from Sydney. Coronet, schooner, from Marshall Group. Mercia. barque, from l/m-lon ; sailed Doc 30 Relle Brandon, schooner from Line Islands Island Lily, brigantine, from Chatham Islands Clara Uargreaves, barque, from Newcastle. Loch Doe,'barque, from London ; loading.

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

Tauranga—Glenelg, Friday For New Plymouth and Southern Ports —

Taiaroa, WodnesJay Whangarei—Argylo, Tuesdays, nnd Fridays Anne Milbank, J ton. lay 3 aud Thursdays. Lyttelton.—l-ritish Umpire.

IMPORTS.

Per Tararua, from Sydney: 76 chests and i-chests tea, 1 coil wire. JOO bags rice, 10 cases sago, 10 cases tapioca, 135 esses orandy, 50 cases jam, 20 cases Passover cakes, 1,223 mats and gunnies sugar, 7 boxes candle?, 1 Mid?, rum, 5 cases chocolate, 1 case mustard, 1 bale flannel, 4 bales serge, G packages tobacco, 60 cases fruit, 1 bag flour, 100 cases schninps, 12 cr.-ues bottles, 33 b gs bacon, IS cases salmon, 71 cases and packages sundries.

EXPORTS.

Per Agnes Donald, for Raratonga:—422 tin 3 biscuits. 220 tins and SO sacks flour, 10 boxes soap. 975 piec-s timber, 100 jars butter, -13 pKgs. aoois and sashes, 10 cases 0ni0.,?, 15 empty casks, 12 drums raw and boiled oil, 6 cases sundries, 40 bags rice. 92 mats s;igir, 100 cases kerosciue. 16 bales cottons and drapery, 6 cases preserved fls^, 5 cases Hm, 2 cases totia:co, 10 kgs. salted salmon. 6 k. s. wire nnils, 147 tins mixed paint, 20kgs. b?ef, 7 s .itsoilskins, 4castsaxes,*6oases preserved meats. 6 coils rope, lOoar.j, 2 weighing machines, 4 cheeses, 2 cases ironmongery. 1 case blankets, o pkgs. sewing ma chines. 3 empt. tanks, 2 cases c.rrogated iron, 37 pkgs. oilmen's stores. Per James A. St-rwnrt from Omaru,—lCs2 sacks wheat, 300 sacks bran.

INWARDS Coastwisf.—Reward from Wairoa Soutn with3,ooo feet baulk timber.

Outwards Coastwise.—AVaiwera, for Mer cury Hay ; I lit n. for Thames : r'auny Kc.ly, for Whangaroa: Venus, for Mercury Island; Reward, for Tauranga.

Tho three-masted schoonerEstelle entered cv at the Customs to-day for Newcastle.

The schooner .4gnes Donald sailed for Raro tonga at a lato hour lo3t night, with a full general car^o.

Tne three-masted schooner Fairlie arrived at Oamaru from Newcastle on the 6th instant.

The s.s. Glenelg will retu-n fom Tauranga to-morrow morning.

The schooner Rover is expected to leave to-morrow night for Samoa.

The s.s. Tararua arrived this morning from Sydney, via Russell. Her passenger ist and report appeared in onr last evening's issue. The steamer will leave for Melbourne, via Hast Coast aud Sou:hera ports, to-morrow morning.

The topsail schooner Lady Ton (from Russell) and the fore-and-aft s. homer Minnie Hare (from the coas') wero coming up tho harbour when we went to press.

The cntt»r Sovereign of the Seas arrived at New Caledonia from this port on February 21tb, after a very protracted passage of forty days.

News has been received in town of tbe ar rival of the schooner New Caleilonia at Tonga, after a passage of nineteen days.

The brigantine. James A. Stewart, arrived at a late hour this afternoon from Oamaru with a cargo of oits and wheat. She lelt on the 11th ins3ant, witn a south-east--riy wind which con tinued for 21 hours. It then hauled to the north east, and continued in that direction till the 11th. Strong gales from the south-west were encoun tered, during which the foresail ard jib were blown away. Thence to arrival north-easterly and variatle winds.

The Ada C. Owen and Annie Wilson, were loading at Lyttletcn for this port when the Flirt left. The brigantine Borcalis arrived at Levuka from this port, on February 26th.

ARRIVAL OF THE FLIRT.-TERRIFIC GALES.

The Flirt arrived from Lyttelton, in ballist, this afternoon. Captain McDearmid reports having left on the 10th instant. On the fo.low ing day encountered a heavy gale, with baro meter 2870. The wind increased and blew with hurricane fcrcc, and the sea was very high. At 3 a.m. on the 12: ha heavy sea struok tho vessel on the pOit quarter, and threw her on her beam ends. At tha same time the ballast shifter! to one side. Eventually got the brigantine before tho gale, and she scudded be fore it n^dor fore-topmast ttajssil. The weather moderated or, tr.e 12th. The Ea3t Capo was passed on the 11th, and moderate weather experienced ;ill arrival.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Rangatira, s.s.. Harvey, from ths South Lalla Rookh, p.s., Campbell, from Kaglan Rowena, s.s., Amodeo, from Waitara

DEPARTURES.

Wellington, s.s., Anderson, for xhe Pouth

IMPORTS.

Per Rangatira from New Plymouth—22 kegs butter. From Whacganui—3 packages, 1 parcel, 241 sheep. From Wellington—2 pack ages.

EXPORTS.

Per Wellington for New Plymouth—ll bags bark, 3 packages, 1 boiler, 2 qr.-ca3ks] whieky, 8 cases tobacco. For Wellington—H parcel, 1 portmanteau.

The s.s. Rangatira arrived from the Ponth to day with a cargo of sheep and the following passengers: Mesdames Walters and three children, Baker, Lynds, and Doul1, Messrs Mc- Lean. Rawlings, Doull, McKinlay, Hdson, Grant (2), Foster, Quigley, and ten in the steer age.

The s.s. "Wellington sailed South to day with the following passengers :—Judge i'enton. T. Brush, Mifs L. Samuel, Mrs Watkins, Squire, P. H. Engel Hon, J. Hall.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Wbaxgarei, this day. Ihe s.s. Arßyle arrived from Auckland at 8.30 a.m. to-day Russell, this day. The s.s. Ringarooma arrived from Auckland at 6 o'clock this morning. Arrived: Ringarooma, Sailed: Helena for Kaipara; Ringarooma for Sydney. WiiTARi, this day. The as. Hannah Mokan left for Onehunga at 11,45 a m. to day. __,__, Wellihgton, this day.™ The steamer Waitaki which left for the South at 1.30 p.m.. came to anchor when half way down the harbour, the condenser opposite the high pressure crank having burst. It is not yet know what delay will be occassioned. Port Chalmefs. thia day, Arrived— Ko omahaua, s.s., from Melbourne, viathe Bluff. Sailed—Rotomahana. s.s., for Melbourne; Rosannah Rose for Kaipara.

The Thiumpw of the Age. — In moderate tono and distiuc.ive excellence tha Wilcox and White Organs e.^iiwo all otlior styles. They are rapablo ofbrillil i.t effects as woll as of sustained harmony, and tl.o many varied and bcautuu combinations arlcmatc to performance of Clas sical, Louitinittto Oraan Music—Solo Agency Auckland Musio Warehouse, .71, Queen atreet,

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

mails will Close as Unijer :— This Day. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 4.30 p.m. For Thames, por Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Thursday. IStli instant. For Gisborne. Napier, Southern provinces, and Australian Colonies, per Tararna, at 9 a.m. For money ordors and registered letters at 1 p.m, day previous. For Waiwera, Te Kapa, Craigieburn, and Warkworth, per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Newcastle, N.S.W., per Estelle, at 2 p.m. For Taranaki, Wanganul, and Wellington, per Rangatira, at 1 p.m. ■, & For per Rover, at 3 p.m. * For Thames, por Rotomahana, at 4.30 p.m. Friday, 19th instant. For Whitiaugi, Tairua, Tauranga, and Opotiki. nor Glenelg, at 4 p.m. For Waiheko and Coromandel, por Coromandel, at 2.30 p.m. For Whangarei Heads, and Wangarei, per Argvlo, nt 4 p.m. Tuesday, 30th instant. Per s.s. City of New York as follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United States of America. Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Forei«n W'edt indies, Japan, and China, including Hongkong, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent, of Europe, at 1 p.m. For money orders, and registered letters, at 11.30 a.m. ■ Late letters bearing an extra fee of sixpence, in addition to the postage, will be received by the Mail Agent on board the steamer up to tbo time of Bailing. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

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

WEDNESDAY. MARCH 17, 1880.

for the cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future in the distance,

Aud the good that we can do.

We are glad to learn that a measure of justice is to be done to the North. It will be remembered that through the influence mainly of Captain Colbeck a sum of .£65,000 was voted for expendi ture on works north of Auckland, but there has been some hitch as to the distribution of the money. The Premier, ou his arrival, however, lost no time in setting matters in train, and has, we understand, issued instructions that £30,000 is to be at once expended under the super intendence of Mr Fail-burn, engineer. A portion of the remaining £45,000 is to be divided amongst the County Councils and Highway Boards to be expended on local works in the districts, and the residue will be re served to meet future contingencies as may be necessary in the discretion of the" Attorney-General. The £30,000 will be devoted to the construction of a main road from Auckland to Mongonui, which will open up a large area of valuable country. Some doubt, how ever, prevails as to whether the Public Works Department intend to metal the road. If they do not do so it will be come cut up during tho winter months, and unlit for traffic.

The «reat Parihaka meeting, which is ex pected to be attended with such important results is to commence to-day, aud, there fore, it may not be uninteresting to state the exact relative positions of the Govern ment and Te Whiti. The latter has ap parently taken his stand upon the asserted independence of the tribes under his con trol, contends that the unoccupied por tious of the eonliscated lands have been unjustly alienated, and announces his intention of parting with uo more. He wishes to gaiu a hearing and an acknow ledgment of this independence, and, as mentioned in a former article, has already tried many schemes to '-ring about a meet ing with persons of sullicient power to treat with him for a renewal of, or rather the substitution of, a new one for the Treaty of Waitanga. This motive is apparent in his speech of September last when, after saying that he has proved the European laws to be powerless to try the piisouers in Wellington for ploughing, and asserting them to be equally inoperative iv all cases when applied to his people, except those of theft, he"went on to say that Government has appointed a lot of carpenters aud black smiths und doctors to tinker up the old laws. He then declared their inability to accomplish their purpose unless assisted by him, and said that if the carpenters aud blacksmiths came to him he would assist them in making a structure which should stand for ever. We have here an undoubted promise to help in establishing permanent peace and order, and there can be no doubt that we have at present failed to come to terms with him because we have not sent the proper persons. When Mr. Mackay went to him that gentleman expressly said that he was not a Government mau, aud in consequence Te Whiti saw that he had no power to treat, aud he therefore refused to meution anything of hU iutentions to him. And here, it may be remarked, tbat Te Whiti has no iutention of settling this matter by deputy, and he has asserted over aud over again that he alone will conclude his work. This was very apparent in his repudiation of the Maori Committee formed in Wellington to litigate on the Confisca tion question. Oue of these, Wi Parata, was present iv September when Te Whiti said, "Some of you men who fancy your selves wise, think it shall be left for you to settle. It shall not. lam not only plough ing the confiscated lands but the belly and alf deceitful works of the Government. The man who commenced the cultivation of the garden shall complete it, and all that is left for you is to partake of the suppei which shail be ready in the evening." The supper to be ready in the evening is metaphorical of the results of his work.

With regard to the Royal Commission, it is easily understood why he would not acknowledge that, when we consider that it is specially required to take the Confisca tion for granted, and not discuss the matter in any way. It has been seen how per sistent have been Te Whiti's efforts to pro voke us into sending some one to listen to him, and all of them without recourse to arms. He doubtless sees that by adopting force he would be ruining his object by giving us au opportunity of avoiding the question he wishes to raise, and settling the matter at once ou the principle that might is right. He ha 3 therefore confined himself to an unarmed interference with the pro gress of the colony, which at the same time, can only be punished by the legal tribunals of the country, which he considers have no jurisdiction over his people. Our failure to bring the prisoners to trial after they were committed has tended to strengthen this idea of his. He has no fear for their safety, neither does he doubt their ultimate return, which, he says, is only to take place after his quarrels are settled with the Govern ment. Since September he has constantly told his hearers not to be afraid, but to take rest for a time, for the embarrassment of the Government in regard to the prisoners is a matter for congratulation, that all that the Government is now doing would be ineffectual, and was only like the con trivances of a sick man to escape death. He has told them month after month that they have done their work for the present, and that he alone will work witli his tongue, and rest .would be given to them, at least till the great meeting in March, which he calls one of the two poles or marks in the year, September being the other. Only he added, " kia tupato," which means be cautious, be suspicious, he on the alert. Such is the position of Te Whiti and his followers, and now we will take a glance at the Government side of the afl'air. Looking upon the prisoners in the light of hostages, Government has determined to keep these men away from Parihaka and the Confis cated lands until all fear of disturbance is at anend,andmeauwhileiguoringaltogetherTe Whiti and his repudiation of the confisca tion, take possession of the lands in dispute, make proper reserves for the natives, pro secute the making of roads through the district, and, by geuerosity in the matter of reserves, wean, if possible, Te Whiti's fol lowers from him, and form a party loyal and favourable to the Government, who shall contrast strongly by their prosperity with the landless aud moneyless clique at Parihaka. In furtherance of this policy the Royal Commission was appointed to enquire into promises made iv the past

touching the return of portions of the con fiscated lands, with the intention, it is presumed ot giving effect to all well-sub stantiated promises, and so remove ono_ of the great causes of dissatisfaction, which have driven many natives to Parihaka. Stepping aside from their strict line of duty, the Commission have likewise enquired into many cases which are contingent causes of complaint, aud every anxiety is displayed to remove all just reasons for secession from loyalty to the Government. Simul taneously with the enquiries of the Commis sion, the Armed Constabulary have beeu moved on to the Plain*, and on to the Paiihaka block, to make roads, and show the natives that while wishing to behave justly and even generously with them, we intend to occupy such portions of the con fiscated lauds as are not included in any promise of returu, or require as residentiary reserves for the original owners of the soil. The attitude is undoubtedly a dignified one, and will only meet with failure—should it fail—by reason of the position having been assumed too late.

It will be seen by the above that the Government made the last move, aud that the onus of taking further steps for gaining his poiut rests with Te Whiti. Will he do anything further to provoke the attendance of au ambassador at Parihaka? Judging from his speeches, and from his poiuted acknowledgment of Colonel Roberts as a tit person to go to Paiihaka, there is un doubted reason to believe lie will. The concluding words of his laat half-yearly speech plainly tells the natives remaining to him that they may be wanted for his service at auy time, and the natives them selves appear to think that some fresh move will he made subsequent to tho March meeting. What form this move will take we do not know, but it is always taken for certain that no blood will be shed. Finding that his previous efforts have been useless iv bringing about the desired result, there would appear to be reason for concluding that any effort subsequently made will be of a more decided and undoubted rebellious character. From all his late speeches Te Whiti appears to have concluded that he will ouly gaiu a hearing through a visit from the military to Parihaka, aud we may therefore be safe in supposing that anything he may do in future will have for its aim, if not for its end, the provocation of Govern ment iuto dispatching the Constabulary to Paiihaka. Te Whiti has been, as he tells his hearers, more than eleven years in elaborating his scheme, and he does not consider that since he commenced active operations he has met with anything like failure; our retention of the prisoners being only a check which has its advantages iv his oyes. It is a curious question which deserves consideration whether Te Whiti, in sending his brave and best men to prison, did not wish to ensure the peaceful and only successful couclusiou of his scheme ?

However this may be, Te Whiti lias two tribal sections whicli have failed to contri bute towards the prisoners, aud it is but fair to suppose that after ten years' work he is not going to stop whilst he has a man left, especially as the worot that happens to the men he sends to prison is contemplative idleness and abundant good living. From what has been said it will be seen that there is reason to look forward to the March meeting, which commences today, if not with anxiety, at least with ex pectation.

THE Hou. JohnflHall, accompanied by Messrs. T. Macffarlane and 11. Brett puid a visit yesterday afternoon to various pait-i of the suburbs. They first drove to th - waterworks, where thoy were received and conducted through the pumping house by Mr. Ilatiini, engineer iv charge. The Pre mier expressed surprise at the excellence of the niachitury which ho considers superior to anything of the kind in any other part of the colony as regards latest improvements and power. The party next drove to the Lunatic Asylum at the Whim, where Dr. Young shewed them through the wards and about the premises. Mr. Hall made a very minute iuspection of the new wing, "aud gave orders for several improve ments and alterations, particularly instruct ing the architect to erect another [light of stairs at the other end of the building, and also to make other nccetsary alterations for the comfort of the iumates. The party n3Kt drove to the abattoirs, over which they wore shown by Mr Woollicld. The Piemier expressed his admira tion at tlte general cleanliness and regularity of the place, which he con sidered the host of its kind iv the colony. The next place visited was the Ponsonby reservoir, where the party were received by Mr Carlaw, turncock, who pointed out that the place is in communication with the Fire Brigade station by telephone. Thence the Premier went to the Provincial District Hospital, and was couducted through tho wards by Dr Cooper. The visitors expressed satisfaction at the uieaus adopted for the comfort and cure of patients. The Premier returned late in the afternoon to the Nor thern Club

Several letters to the editor, and other matters, are crowded out by pressure of English, Australian, aud Southern tele graphic news.

Chief Judge Fentou, of the Native hands Court, left for Taranaki to-day to give evi dence in the Royal Commission with refer ence to the titles" to land ou the Waimate Plains.

A special meeting of the members of the Excelsior Cricket Club will he held on Thursday, the ISth, at S o'clock, iv the uaual piace of niectiug. Business im portant.

To the Editor; Sir,—What a fuss all at once ! What startling disclosures I Some body has discovered that pleuro-pneuniouia really exists. Has there beeu a split in the camp or does somebody's youngest son want a billet? Cattle with this complaint have been killed in this province to my personal knowledge for fifteen years, and scabby mutton has been vended in Queen-street with impunity. Are the iunoceuts abroad ? —I am, etc.", Charles Ellev. [IE oar correspondent was aware that bad mc.it was being sold, he migh; at least have drawn the attention of the proper authorities to the fact.—Ed. E.S.]

Combing washed wool is quoted in the New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency's London cable message of the 13th inst. at 2d per lb.

It will be seen from a London cable mes sage iv another column that the outward mail per City of Sydney, which left Auck land on the 3rd February, was delivered ia London on the 13th, three days under con tract time. She made the run to Honolulu from this port iv 12 days 5 hours. She ex perienced N.E. aud E. winds throughout the entire passage to Honolulu.

Mr P. Doran and his troupe of minstrels have just returned from a successful tour in the northern settlements, and to-night they will appear in the Theatre Royal, and give oue of their choice entertainments, especially adapted to the holiday. Consist ing of Irish ballads, songs, and dance?; with several popular songs by Mr Love.

The Hon. J. Hall, Premier, was a passen ger for the South by the Wellington, which sailed to-day.

The polling to decide the question of tiie Consolidation of Auckland Loans, took place yesterday and was concluded at G o'clock. Very little interest was taken iv the affair by the ratepayers, the numbers polled being IG2 for the adoption of the Act, and seven against it. Mr W. 11, Ridings was the Returning Officer.

To the Editor : Sir, —A word from me, as Moderator of North Shore, seems called for by a letter in last evening's issue. The motive imputed to the Auckland Presbytery iv connection with its alleged unkindly treatment of Key. Mr McCallum may exist in the mind of the writer, but I know it to have no foundation in fact. The discussion in Presbytery to which my resignation of the office of Moderator gave rise, had its origin, not in unbrotherly feeling, but from a conscientious difference of opinion as to the abstract question of the re lation to the Presbyteiy of Ministers who had not accepted a regular charge. Of this Mr McCallum is now satisfied. I am persuaded that the pleasure I should ex perience in the employment of Mr Mc- Callum's acknowledged gifts in a suitable and congenial sphere would I>j shared by my brethren of the Presbyteiy.—l am, &c, A. Carrick.

Mr E. ' arr delivered au address last evening in the Christian Meeting House, on " Mormonism," its principal doctrines re futed. The little chapel was crowded by persons attracted thither by the nature of the subject, "Mormonism," which has arrested some public atteutiou iv conse quence of several elders from the Salt-Lake being in Auckland. Mr Francis Cherry occupied the chair, and formally introduced Mr Catr, a well-known speaker in Cook-st. Elder Sorensen was invited but declined at tending, possibly from a consciousness of his deficiency as a debater. The principal doc triues of the Latter Day Saints were suc cessively introduced and demolished. The lecturer gave a lucid account of Joseph Smith and the remarkable deception of the discovery of the Book of Mormon, and iis influence on the ere iulity of simple unedu cated minds. The lecture was a very suc cessful exposure of the mischievous system of '•' Morraonjsm," and the lecturer received the thank's of hp 3 hearers. The chairman was also thanked,' and the meeting separate^ after the Doxology had beep sung.

The Kiugites will be represented at the Orakei Parliament by Te Reinga, daughter of Manuhiri,

A meeting of the Waste Land's Board will take place at 2 o'clock to-morrow,

The new Presbyterian Church at Taukau is now erected, and the opening services will be conducted ou Sunday tbe 21st inst, when the Rev. F. B. Mouro, of Remuera, will preach at 2 p.m s and at 7. The soiree will be held on tbe Monday following at 6.30, when it is expecte i that ministers from the South, and others will address the meetiug.

A public breakfast in connection with the present session of tbe General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand is announced to take place at the Stat Hotel to-morrow morning. All members of the Presbyterian Church are invited to be present.

An interesting meeting for young men will be held to-morrow (Thursday) evening in the Young Mens' Christian association Rooms. Young men who have recently arrived will be welcome.

A hoy named John Thomas narrowly escaped being killed on Monday evening by falling down a well, to a depth of about 80 feet, ou the premises of Mrs Outhwaite, corner of Princes-street and Waterloo Quadrant. The boy was overbalanced in lifting a bucket of water, |but managed to cliug to the sides aud to prevent himself from sinking until he was rescued by Mrs Frith. Singularly enough, when he was half way up he fell down a second time, but was at length got out.

Messrs E. aud A. Isaacs will hold a large sale of ships stores, general groceries, wines and spirits, bull dog, ale, aud stout, to-morrow.

Mr Alfred Bucklaud is now making a very useful alteration to the Haymarket Yards, by cutting a wide passage throagh the back wall, so as to provide for a roadway from Durhani-street. The alteration will be a great convenience to carters, and will relieve the hitheito crowded traific of the street.

A meeting of members of the Jewish persuasion was held in the V.M.C. Build ing ou Monday evening, for the purpose of forming a Mutual Improvement Association. Mr P. A. Philips was voted to the chair, and briefly introduced the matter in hand. It was then decided to form an Association of the kind indicated, and the following gentlemen were appointed office-bearers for the ensuing year :—Chairman (to be elected querterly), Mr P. A. Philips ; Vice-chair man, Mr Moses Montague ; Treasurer, Mr J. M.Jacobs; Secretary, Mr Simon Moses ; Committee, Messrs A. 11. Nathan, G. Brown, and T. H. Kecsing. Thirty-two members were enrolled, the necessary regu lations aud bye-laws were read and approved, nnd the subject for discussion fixed for the first ordinary meeting having beeu annouueed, the newly constituted Association adjourned till Monday next. Thoy will then discuss the question, " Which is the gteater statesman—Beacons field or Gladstone ?" The regulations which have been adopted are, with two ex ceptions, precisely similar to those of St Jamos' Association.

To the Editor : Sir,—l was much struck with the conduct of a young man last night at the junction of Queen aud Grey-streets. One of our preachers, who spends all his time in preaching the Gospel here every Sunday evening, was rudely interrupted by a boisterous young fellow with a parcel under his arm (i.e.) a bottle of beer, who rushed up and grossly insulted everyone who was there, eveti the preacher himself. I should suggest that a policeman be ftatione.l here about for the protection of the public. These .street preachings, I believe, do more good than all the church goinu that is carried on in Auckland. —I am, &c, Pro Bono Publico.

The fourth anniversary of the Ponsonby Baptiit Sunday School was celebrated last evening by a tea aud public meeting. The room was well filled with immediate friends and visitots. An excellent tea was pro vided by tho followitig ladies : Mesdames. Dewar, Bigelow (2), James, Edmiston, Owou, Brown, Edwards, Mrs James Brown, and Mossr*. Knight and Balentine. Key. Allan W. Webb presided at the meeting, aud introduced thesubjeetof the eveuiog iua few well set remarks ou Sunday-school work. The secretary's report showed the number of teachers to be 11, scholars 78. The treasurer's statement shewed a credit balance of £12 10s 7d. Addresses were de livered by the chairman, aud Messrs. Por ter, Hcuius, and Driver, and listeued to with becoming attention. Several selections of music were given during tho intervals, the Misses Hirst, Barton, (2), Owen, and Messrs. Ilijjclow and Smith taking part in the sacred harmony. The children's tea meeting will bo hold this evening.

The Hon. W. Holleston, Minister of Lands and Education, proceeds to the Thames to-niu'lit. Thence ha goes overlaud to Ohinninuii, Kutikati, ami Muketu.

From his long residence in India, aud in timate with its affairs, the lecture to be given hy his lordship Bishop Cowie to-nior row evening should prove very attractive. The subject is "Afghanistan and Central Asia." The doors will be open at half-past seven, aud the lecturer will begin at a quarter to eight. In order to prevent that inconvenience and interruption which arises from late arrival, we trust visitors will also be punctual.

Irish. Belief Fund.

rIHE Mayor acknowledges the receipt of the following sums for the above fund :—Alex. Kwen, £1 ; Patrick Brennan, 10s ; W. E. Barker, 5s ; Mrs 11. Somervell, £1 Is; col lected at Mr Edger's lecture, £9 12s; Opotiki (second subscription), £3 12s Gd. Collected by the chairman of the Whaka tane Highway Board: Ceorge Siropkins, £2 2s; C. G. Murphy, £2 2s; John McAlister, £1 Is ; Mr Henderson, £1 ; E. Sinipkins, jun., 10s ; Joseph Menctt, 10s ; John Ryan, 10s ; Joseph Comisky, £1 ; William father, 10s; John Boyntou, 10s ; I homas Ward, 10s ; H. C. Matthews, 10s ; George Cutnbcrlidge, 10s ; James Hunter, 10s; Michael O'Riellv, £1 ; Charles Kellv, 10s : Robert Wilkin, 10s ; Frank McDonald, 10s : W. T, Kerwin, 5s ; John Kraucis, 5s ; W. Lyons. 5s ; tntal, £15.

Collected by the chairman of the Man gawai Road Board : Pearsou Wilson, 10s; E. Thomas, 5s ; Ceo. Uogan, 5s ; George Thompson, 2s 6d ; Jas. Mair, 2s 6d ; S. Moouey, 4s ; Nortuan McKeuzie, 5s ; Mr White, 3s 6d ; Mr and Mrs Haseman, Is Gd ; total, £1 19*.

Collected by the Chairman of the One- Tree Hill Road Board:—X. Wynyard, 10a; Wm. Mears, £1 ; W. Rcdey, 3s 6d ; D. Mclmloe, 3s Gd; R. M. Brighatn, ss; G. Wood, os; E. R. Houlton, 2s 6d ; W. H. Robinson, ss; E. C. Mitchell, 2s 6d ; Friend, 5s ; Robert Hail, £1 ; W. Hall, 10s ;J. C. Courtney, 10s ; G. Crisp, 2s; J. Howard, 5s ;_> riend, 5s ; W. Crowhurst, 2s 6d ; l-'iiei d, 3s ; Mrs Hean, 3s : total, £6 2s Gd.

Mr M. Landers, Secretary to the Irish Relief Fund, Thames, bees to acknowledge the receipt of £20 9s, collected by Mr P. Quiun, Mercury Bay. Subjoined are the names of the subscribers '.—Patrick Quinn, £3 3s ; P. Cooney, £2 ; X icholas McCarthy, 10s ; Thomas McTavish, 5s ; C. Blonsonie, 10s. ; William S. Whitty, 10s. ; Cornelius O'Shea, £1; D. Matheson, 10s.; P. Marii.., 10s. ; Anthony Poland, 10s. ; William Dun bar, 10s.; Ceo. Loam, 10s. ; Geo. Seymour, ss. ; J no. Taupaki, 10s. ; Juo. Frost, 10s. ; Mortis Dunbar, 10s. ; Robert Dunbar, 10s ; Andrew Anson, ss. ; William Bready, 55.: Henry Dignau, ss. ; Win. Robinson, ss. ; Hector McKay, 10s, ; Denis Kgan, 10s.; G. W. White, 55.; Middletnis and Sharp, 10s. ; Chas. Whelan, 10s. ; Geo. Lernore, ss. ; Daniel King, ss. ; Dugald Bryce, 10s.; J. Morris, 10s ; Jno. Eldworth, 10s. ; Chas. O'Reilly, 10s. ; Tlios. Carina, £1 Is. ; Rbt. Wigmore, £1: total, £20 9s.

Collected by the Chairman of the Opotiki Highway Board :—Captain Preece, K.M., £2 2s; Dr Reid, £2 2s; William BlacK (Otara), £2; James Connor, £2; Jeffrey Gcarey, £2 2s; Rev. A. C. Souter, £1 ; Stewait Bates, £1 Is ; Campbell Thompson, £1 Is; D. Irwin, £1 Is ; Edward Cusseu, £1 Is ; E. P. Dumergue, 10s ; Thos. Bren nan, £1 Is ; T. Brown, £1 ; M. Lavin, 10s ; John Kelly, 10s ; J. McCarthy, 10s ; Wm. Bird, 5s ;D. Mills, 10s; A Mills, 10s ; Jas. Mills, 103; G. Stephenson, £1 ; Lewis, 7s Gd ; James Mc'Jiuley, £1 ; Wm. Luttrell, ss; A. Nicholson, ss; S. Payton, 10s; Frank Maxwell, 10s ; James Smith, 10s ; J. Murphy, £1; Arthur Parkinson, ss; Rudolph Prohl, 10s 6d ; Geo. McLeod, Gs ; Thomai Crimmins, 5s ; Richard Wright, 10s Gd ; John Thompson, 10s; Loftus Kichards, 10s ; John Parkinson, sen., 10-<; S. Moody, 10s ;K. King, 10s; 'R. Macdonald, £1; P. Fitzgerald, 10s; S. Mahony, ss; J McCabe, 10s; H. Knight, 2s 6d; James Parkinson, 5s ; J. W. Duffus, 5s ; Alfred Parkinson, ss; William Parkinson, ss; Denis McDevitt, ss; JohnAppleton.fi; C. F. Bockett, £1; H. W. Penny, £1 Is. Wm. English, £1 Is; G. Creek, 10s Gd ; John Ronald, 10i; P. Monaghao,los; Joseph Hudson, ss; J. P. Murray, 10s; J. H. Glynn, 10s; W.Butler, sen., 10s; James Livingstone, 7s 6d ; H. Armstrong, 10s ; T. 11. Pile, 10s ; J. C, 10s ; Robert Black, 10s ; James Walsh, 10s ; J. Hood, 10s ; D. Ryan, 10s; Robert Forbes, 2s Gd ; Thomas Mc- Lean, 5s ; a Friend, 4s ; Delaney, junr , 10s ; Mrs Sisam, 5s ; Mr Geogham, 5s ; C. Hennessy, 7s 6d; Filmer and Connor, 2s 6d; total, £47 18s 6d.

A broker, replied on being asked what be cleared on a certain speculation, " Nothing but my pockets," ' issaiiQ

GABLE NEWS.

EUEOPBAN.

[UNITED PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

The Fire on Board the City of Sydney. LONDON. March 16. News has been received from San Fran scisco that the fire, which broke out aboard the steamship City of Sydney, while lying iv the dock, was speedily suppressed, and the vessel has sustained but little damage. Arrest of Socialists at Warsaw. ST. PETERSBURG. Monday. A number of Socialists were holding a meeting to-day, at Warsaw, when the police entered the house in which they were assembled and arrested sixteen of the number.

•±\he Crisis in Victoria,

LO.NDO.N

March 6.

The " Spectator," in a moderate article on the result of the geucral elections in Victoria, expresses the opinion that the defeat of the Berry party was due to a dislike- by the people of tbe plebisciie. In the same article, doubts are expressed as to whether the Catholic sup port of Mr S rvico, tending as it does to identify him with the interest of de noniiuntioualism, may not cause a reaction in favour of Mr Berry. The " Spectator," therefore, considers that Mr Service aud his colleague will not be able to withstand for long the opposition that Mr Berry will be in a position to command. The " Pall Mall Gazette " approves of the choice of of Mr Service as leader of the new Govern ment, considering him to be, in reality, a vigorous liberal.

The Times, in discussing the rceent general election in Victoria, says that Mr. Berry's overthrow results from a popular revolt against an extravagant and domineer ing policy. The electors have condemned not only Mr. Berry's proposed scheme for the reform of the Constitution, hut also the whole proceedings of the Berry Government. The Timet hopes that the majority of the new Assembly and the new Government will use the opportunity at once, aud settle the Reform question in such a way as to render deadlocks impossible. The Pall Mall Gazette, the Post, and the Standard congratulate Victoria on the results of the recent elections. They attri bute those results to a recognition by the people of the fallacies of protection, and they express special satisfaction at the rejectiou of Sir Bryan O'Loghlen. The Standard says he is thus punished for demagogic tampering with disloyalty. LONDON. March 0. Breadstuffs Market. Australian wheat is selliug at 59s to 60s per 49(>ibs, ex warehouse ; New Zealand ditto, 57s to 533. The corn market is ilrm and steady. The price of Australian Hour is 42s to 43s per 2001bs. The Cuzco. LONDON.

March 6,

The Orient Company's ss. Cuzco left Plymonth this evening with 202 parsengers and a full cargo for Adelaide, Melbourne, and 3ydney. Munificent, Bequest to the Sydney University. LONDJN. February 29. John Henry Challis, an old resident of Syducy, died suddenly yesterday. He loaves £100,000 to the Sydney University. Chinese Breparation for War. LONDON. March 6. Chiua is making preparations for war on a lar«'e scale. The ttussian difficulty is the principal cause ; but a defensive attitude is to be assumed generally towards all foreigners. Marriage with Deceased "Wife's Sister- LONDON. March 6. A bill to legalize marriage with a deceased wife's water has passed its second reading in the Canadian House of Commons, by an immense majority. The Independence of Finland. LONDON. March 6. A popular movement ia on toot iv Fin land iv favour of Independence. Internal Affairs of Russia- LONDON. February 2S. The appointment of General Loris Meli koll to the Dictatorship has checked the panic at St. Petersburg. The Loudon "Standard" allege* that Melikoff is a natural son of the Czar, by an Armenian lady, and that this indicates that the Czar has lost confidence iv his entourage. Gene ral MelikofT is regarded as boing resolute, without being despotic ; nevertheless, abso lutism dcvelopes tremendous activity, and Nihilist outrages are of daily occurrence.

The Nihilists now threaten to burn St. Petersburg on the anniversary of the acces sion of the Czar.

Arrest of Vera Sassulitch LONDON.

February 2S. Vera Sassulitch has been arrested al St. Petersburg. The Continental Outlook- LONDON.

February 2S.

The outlook on the Continent is menacing. Russian and Italian agents are organizing resistance to the advauce of Austria ou Novi Bazar; and the "North German Gazette," ''Berlin Post," aud "Pesiher Lloyd" violently threaten Russia. They state that it is necessary to crush Panscla- Yiani in order to preveut a Franco-Russian alliance, and allege that the present condi tion of Russia oilers a favourable opportunity for crippliug her. There is less sympathy between the Russian and Berlin Courts. The Auctrali&n Eleven? Twenty-seven matches have been arranged with tho Australian Eleven, from tho 17th May to the 10th September. No metro politan gentlemen players will take part in the matches, as they are very sore at the treatment Lord Harris's team received in Australia. It is said that the Australian team come as professionals, and are to receive 75 per cent, of the gate money taken at each match in which they play. Execution of Modetsky. LONDON. March 5. Modetsky, the Nihilist who attempted the murder of Ceneral Melikoff, was hanged at St. Petersburg to-day. He steadfastly refused to disclose the names of any of his accomplices. There was au immense assem blage of people in the streets, and the mili tary and police paraded the streets in strong force. During the preparations for the execution the police made numerous arrests of persons suspected to he concerned with the rcceut outbreaks. The Afghan War- LONDON. March 6. Tho latest despatches from the seat of war in Afghanistan show that very little fighting has taken place during the past week, but that active preparations have been going on among the hostile tribes for a renewal of oflensive operations. These preparations culminated iv an advance by a large body of Afghans upon Kohistan. The British governor was compelled to fly before tbe advancing insurgents. Melbourne International Exhibition. LONDON. March 6. The British Government has refused to grant any further funds to the Exhibition Commission, appointed iv connection with tho Melbourne International Exhibition.

[REUTERS SPECIAL CABLEGRAMS.]

The Homeward Mails. LONDON.

Monday. The Homeward Mails, via San Francisco, were delivered in London on the 13th.

The steamship Orient has arrived from Melbourne. Helhn Denny from Napier, Timaru from Port Chalmers.

Best Australian beef tallow : 35s to 365,

AUSTRALIAN.

[reuter's telegrams.]

Australian Agricultural Company. MELBOURNE.

March 16.

An Australian Agricultural Company has been formed ip Melbourne, which has pur chased hit Clough's business.

A Cabiuet Council has been summoned for Monday, for the consideration of new measures.

Inter-Colonial Cricket Match. ADELAIDE. This day. At the cricket match, 16 Adelaide players beat the Australian eleven by 69 runs. Governor Weld's Apnoint ment. Governor Weld has been appointed to the Governorship of the Straits Settlement. The Auckland Rope "Works. SYDNEY. March 16. The following further awards by the judges of the International Exhibition have been announced to-day, for rope, the Auck land factory Ist prize; Bevan 2nd ; Harbutt 3rd. SYDNEY. This day.

The following further awards by exhibi tion judges are announced in hemp. Robertson of Nelson Ist for flax; Bevan 2nd ; Fulton (Bleuheim) 3rd.

TELEGRAPHIC.

(PER UNITED PRESS ASSOCIATION)

GRAHAMST3WN, this day.

ST. PATRICK'S DAY AT THE THAMES.

The races to-day on the Parawai course are well-attended. There was a good muster of horses for the events, and good sport is anticipated. The Hibernians marched to church in re galia this morning, with the baud playing, " St. Patrick's Day in the Morning." THE WHAU CLAIM. The Whau broke down another 3cwt of specimens and picked stone this morning. The winze is down 1G feet, carrying rich gold all the way, leaving a good show in the tace and across the floor. BEARING THE MARKET. An attempt to hear the market and get shares down to allow parties to purchase was successfully carried out. Messrs T. B. Hicks, late munager of the City of London, Mr James, manager of the Caledonian, and Mr Morpetli visited the mine to-day in the interest of Auckland speculators.

COROMANDEL, this day.

Royal Oak and Tokatea.— Mr Bayldon, surveyor fi om the Thames, has completed his survey of the Royal Oak, and reported that the encroachments on the Tokatea is incorrect. The Oak have thirty feet yet to drive to the boundary of the Tokatea. Full work will be resumed in the Oak, and from present appearance of the lead favour able results will be obtained.

TIMARU, this day PARTNERSHIP QUESTION.

The case for larceny of eight hundred sheep against Geo. Orr, representing the firm of Meek & Miller, Oamaru, was dis cussed, after occupying the bench for two days. The sheep hud beeu sold by rfcott, formerly a pattner with Meek. The latter believing the sale to befraudulent.instructed Orr to seize them, pending the appointment ny the Supreme Court of person to receive disputes in partnership property.

CHARGE OF EMBEZZLEMENT.

Henry Thomas Reed, ex-librariau of the Timaru Mechanics' Institute, was removed to gaol to await transfer to Victoria on a charge of embezzling the fuuds of a Building Society at Warmimbool, where he was also town clerk. His identity was fully pioved by a constable from Warnambool, and bail was refused.

WELLINGTON, this day. BREACH OK LICENSING ACT.

At the Resident Magistrate's Court this morning, Whakeford, proptietor of the Bank Hotel, was iiued £3 for selling spirituous liquors iii the Arcade during young Scott's walk. Messrs Donald and Pascoe, brewers, have tiled a deed of inspection under the Debtors aud Creditors Act.

An old settler named John Wallace, father of Mr J. H. Wallace, auctioneer, of this city, died this morning, aged 93. He arrivediu the colony in 1841. Mr Charles O'Meill, C.E., late M.H.R., has been elected a member of the Institute f Civil Engineers, London.

CHRISTCHURCH, this day ACCIDENTS.

A man named John Hall, working at a threshintr machine, ou McGregoi's larrn, Ashley district, nad his left hand aud a portion of his arm dragged oil', when trying to right a twisted belt. A little named Mabel W rright, four years of age, fell into Addiugton creek jestcrday afiernoou, and was drowned be fore help ai rived. Nt an auction yesterday fifty Union lusuraiice shares fetched 16s each. Two Canterbury tramway shares submitted were withdrawn, the highest bid being 12s Gd.

A TERRIBLE SHOCK.

A painful incident is recorded here iv connection with tiie Duuedin tragedy. Mr-* Atcheson, mother of Mrs Grant, was on the train on Monday, on her way down to visit her daughter, and was unconscious of the event. Reaching Palmerston she receivid a shock by hearing one of the passengers read a newspaper account of the muider.

DUNEDIN, this day- UN EMPLOYED AT DUNEDIN.

A petition '26ft. long, and bearing over 800 signatures of unemployed will be forwarded to Wellin gth to-day.

WHANGAREI-KAMO RAILWAY.

A DEPUTATION from the Whnngcrei County Couucil, represented by their Chairman, Mr 1 inlayson Mni'.h, Mr J. Whitelaw, accom panied by Mr Joseph Bennett, one of the Kamo colliery proprietors, waited upon the Hon. F. Whitaker, for the purpose of urging the calling for tenders for tbe com pletion of the Whangarei railway to deep water. The deputation were most cour teously received, and were informed that in the event of certain debits against the vote for the financial year haviug proved to have been improperly made, and there in conse quence being funds in hand available with which to do some other portion of the line, it would he tendered tor.

The Hon. F. Whitaker said the matter would have, to be looked iuto by the Hon. Mr Oliver, to whose department the matter more properly belonged. M r Whitaker stated, however, that under any circum stances the line would be completed and the necessnrv funds asked for next session.

The Royal Commission.

(From a Correspondent.)

NEW PLYMOUTH, this day

The Commission virtually finished its labours here yesterday, but as there is a little yet to bo done, it will not leave for a day or two. The evidence takeu here in conjunction with the inspection of official documents and maps in regard to confis cated laud nnd awards to the natives, is of the most valuable character, and will make the mistakes and transactions of the past as between the Government and it* officers aud the natives as clear as daylight, and ought to enable Ihe House to deal with Maori grievances satisfactorily and finally. Mil JOSHUA JONES. A good deal of amusement has been created iv town to-day at the result of the interview between Joshua Jones aud the Commission. Jones does not appear to have many sympathisers amongst the Tara naki people. Mr Bryce arrived here last night. Mr Hall is expected to-uioirow. Two parties will endeavour to ascend Mount Egtnont to-day. A laige number of townspeople left for Parihaka yesterday. HONE PIHANIA. I see that one of the papers in a leading article says that it is suspicious that Hone Pratna and Katenc did not attend the Hawera sitting. As the articles hang a good deal upon that I may point out that both attended overy sitting at Hawera, and Hone was theie, as at Ceo, of very great assistance to the Commission, in inducing the other Maoris to conform more than is their usual custom to European usuages in the conduct of business, and these pre? vented much waste of lime, I did not mention the fact at that time, because I have never pretended to report the proceed ings as a whele, merely giving such items as I may gather that are of interest. The article referred to is a curious jumble from beginning to end, no doubt from want of exact information as to the doings of the Commission in full detail. The"visits of regular reporters to the Commission have been very brief and \\ regular, 'Ny^icU \s not ! to be wondered at, as very much or the evidence taken, would npt b.e considered veiy entertaining reading mutter,

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

(PER TARARUA.)

NEW SOUTH WALES.

The Tararua brings Australian files to the 11th March. The Postmaster-General has made ar rangements for the introduction of stamped registered letter envelopes, which will be sold to the public at 4d each. Jennings' testimonial and banquet, pro raises to be a brilliant success. The testi monial will be presented on the day of clos ing the Exhibition. The banquet takes place on the following evening. A shocking tragedy occurred at Wattle Flat near Bathurst on Friday. A man named Poulson, a farmer, killed his son and daughter, 9 and 12 years old, while asleep. The blows were inflicted with an adze, and the cuts were fearful. It is sup posed he was suffering from delirium tremens. He was committed for trial at Bathurst Circuit Court for wilful murder. Lotti Wilmott has been summoned to ap pear at the Police Court, Newcastle, for lecturing on " Forbidden Fruit," in the theatre on Sunday night. The case is ex citing interest, the same lecture having been delivered iv Sydney without interference. The case was dismissed after a prolonged hearing and much discussion. At a foot race at Randwick to-day, between Martin of Maitland, and Watson of Melbourne, one hundred yards, £25 a side, Watson was commanding the lead within a few paces of the goal, when a spectator, said to have heavy bets against him, jostled him out of the race.

The American elevator at the Exhibition was tested on Tuesday. It was loaded with a ton ot iron, then raised, and the rope cut. The safety-catches gnppled it immediately, and prevented it from falling. 29,000 people have used it siuce the middle of December.

The A. A. colliery, Newcastle, resumed work this morning. The iir.-t readiug of the Stamp Duties Bill in Council, as received from the Assembly, was rejected by 17 to 14, the members arguing that it was tbe same bill as the Council had returned to the Assembly with ameiHimeuts, and which the Assembly shelved, l'hey maintained tbat the amend ments should have been included in this bill.

The great slander case, Shepheidv. Dibbs, resulted iv a verdict by a thiee-fourths majority for £2,000 damage?. There is a probability of further legal proceedings being taken in connection with the case. A case of some interest to members of the theatrical profession was heard at the District Court yesterday, arising out of the recent sea-on of the Williamsons at the Theatre Royal. Williamson appears to have thought the returns of receipts fur nished by l.azar were not correct, aud he counted the attendance on one or two occasions. His opinion was confirmed, and he accordingly sued Lazar for the pro portion he considered he was entitled to ; but he was non-suited without witnesses for defence being called. It was not proved that Lazar had come into possession of the money. VICTORIA. On and after the 22nd March, females will be admitted to all Corporate privileges in the University, hut will berestrictedfrom following that of medicine. Monle takes the place of C. Bannerman in the Australian team.

It is rumoured that Sir John O'Shan nrs-y goes to England for the benefit of his health, and will be offered the Agent- Generalshio.

The President of the Agricultural Engi neers Association of Britain writes that the Association declined to exhibit at Philadel phia in consequeuce of the high protective duties, but will exhibit at Melbourne, and hoping that the display may lead to moie liberal fiscal arrangements.

The rumoured reason for requiring Far rell's resignation is that he was regarded as being connected with a disgraceful political job. B. G. Davies was understood to be Government Printer; Ferris to retire on superaunuation.

Complaints have been made that Long more, just prior to his resignation, increased the salaries of two favourite Crown laud bailiffs hy £150 each, and also conferred appointments on their sons.

Presbyterian General Assembly.

The General Assembly resumed its sitting yesterday afternoon, the Moderator (Rev. R. F. Macnicol) presiding. CHURCH PROCEDURE. Authority was applied for by the Presby tery of Christchurch to meet and induct to a charge at Rikaia the Rev, B, J. West hrooke (formerly a Primitive Methodist cleigymau), the ceremony being fixed for the 18th inst. The Junior Clerk pointed one that the desired permission could not be granted without an infringement of the law of the Church, which provided that none of its inferior • ourts could meet during the sitting of a superior Court. After some discission, however, it was agreed to comply with the request, with tbe provisian that the compliance in this case should not be con strued into a precedent. BILLS AND OVERTURES. The Committee ou Bills and Overtures brought up it* report, whioh was read. WIDOWS AND OKPH\NS FOND. The report of the ("ommitteeappointed to dealwith this matter was brought up and read. The convener (Mr Wm. Gililies) tendered his resignation in consequence of removal from the head-quarters of the church. A discussion ensued, iv the course of which vaiious smsgestions were offered for the better admiuistiatin of the Fund. The fol lowing resolution was eventually agreed to : " That the report be adopted ; that thanks be given to Mr Gillies, the conyener, and his lesignation be accepted, with regret;

that a cnmmittse bo appointed to take the necessary steps to have the fund incorporated by Act of Parliament ; to report such measures to the next Assembly." It was also resolved " That the time cf j iiing the Widow's and Orphan's Fuud be extended to the cl.ise of the present financial year, the applicants to pay up arrears." The Assembly then adjourned till the evening. On resuming at . o'clock the question of LICENSING STCDKNTS was brought up for consideration. Mr MacGregor and Mr T. R. Forbes were the applicants, and their credentials being satisfactory they were accepted on trial, with a view to license. ASSESSORS. An application from the Presbytery of Nelson for the appointment of the Revs. Bruceand W. P. Campbell as their assessors was deferred. IRREGULAR PROCEEDING. 1 he application of a studeut evangelist named Mc'.'erniid for a certificate ou leav. ing the bouuds of the Auckland Presbytery was then brou^h^ on for discussion. It excited much interest on account of some irregularity in the action which the appli cant had adopted. He had been stationed at Pokeno, and without obtaining the con sent of the Presbytery had suddenly left for Sydney, despite the fact tha' several cleiical fri nd* had attempted to dissuade him trom such a course. 11 is plea wt\* illness, aud lie had forwauled a modieal ceitifloat ■ proving its correctness. It was iitii.li\ determined : —" hat tie Presbytery of Auckl.nl he instructed to grant a certificate to the effect that Mr McDermid had discharged his duty to their satisfaction while wiihin the bounds, and that he had left their bounds without their consent." TEMPERANCE. The Temperanc Committee brought up an elaborate report ou this subject. After it had been fully discussed the following resolution was carried i—" That the report be adoped, with thauks to the committee, «ud to the onvencr; that the Assembly deploys the manifold evils of in temperance, loikmg with favrur on all legitimate means employed for lessening these evils, urges upon miuisters, office bearers, and people the duty of considering their personal responsibility in the way of exercising every influence which t'aey can conscientiously use for the suppression of this vice; recommends that a temperance sermon be preached in|all the congregations of our Church on some Sabbath before the end of June; instrucls the committee to continue their labours, and authorises them to use all legitimate means for the purpose of fostering the establishment of Con gregational Temperance Societies and .Band of Hape throughout the Church "—

PRE3PYTERIANISM. The Rev Mr McKinnie, of Mahurangi read au admirable paper on this subject. Ou the motion of tho Rev-Mr Munro, it was agre d " T>ia_t the thanks of the Assembly be given to Mr McKiuiie for his excellent, paper, and that hs be requestev to print it," 'i he house adjr urucd at 10.15 to 2 p.m. till to-day.

The Presbyterian Assembly resumed its sittings this afternoon in St. Andrew's Church. P ie seut:-Rev. R. F. Macnicol (Moderator), Rev Messrs I). Bruce Sherriffs Carrick, Wright, Macintosh, Croc, Mouro^ Mason, McKinney, Norrie, Bruce (Jas.) Macky, J^oeimao, Sidey, Hay, also Mr John Lamb nnd several elders of district churches.

OPBNPfG Service.— The assembly was opened by Rev. R. F. Macnicol (Moderator) wtjojgave o\__ a portion of the 89tb psalm,

offcaiaT SUng ' aD<l rCaii tUe 54th chaPt« Minutes.—Rev. David Bruce *~• clerk, read the minutes of the nrevm sitting, which were adopted. Ex-Moderator's Sermon R ev . Carrick rose to propose a vote of thanks t the Rev. Mr Sidey, ex-Moderator for y excellent sermon on the opening of the a semb.y, but regretted a portion of it , lost upon some of the congregation <>'• to the rapidity of the delivery.—rL,*'?1? by Rev. D. W. Kundmau^andSffi unanimously. "«rie<i

CHALMERS MEMORIAL. The subject of a memorial in metuorv t Dr. Thomas Chalmers, the eminent ScottiS preacher, was introduced, and a nJu* carried to the effect "That a miuS* k! token of the same," and the following tlemen were appointed [a committee for^h * carrying out of the same. R cv> m' . Cree, Carrick, Patterson, Sedcy, and I'm** man. ' UCI"

Rev. S. Edger, 8.A., on " Charles Dickens."

(Continued from Yesterday's " stab "i

A criticism has been passed on Dickens which if true would greatly detract from a n this. It has beeu said that he attacked evils only when they had become unpopuiaj and were already doomed, as though I would come in at the last to reap a "„i 0 not due to him. This is certainly iaiS untrue ; there are evils still existina Eh t he fought against. But it has an aunear-. n „ of truth that is not real. Dickens was 2 so far as I can understand, o;:e of t) n very few great original thinkers who strilf out with a quite divine hand the wonderful prophetic thoughts of this world's bistort He belongs to a larger somewhat h__ exalted class, but not less nce.Jed nor less genuine, who can utilise the thou-.hts of the great thinkers as the thinkers them* selves cannot; who bring down from thi> solitary heights of these deities ot the raw those heavenly things that need to be tern pered with more humanity before they can be appropriated ; the men who take {__ tide in human things at the exactly critical moment to secure a triumph. Was it not so with the immortal Uncle Tom's Cabin' Every good man believed that tlarery was doomed. But. Uncle Tom doomed it. How long have the grand germs of our Chris tianity been endorsed, waiting f or «.' secendary hero who shall teach mankind how to utilise them? So was it win, Charles Dickens. ua

No reader of Dickens needs reminding that the distinct and deliberate aim in each and all of his works te the removal of some great social wrong, cuclty, or injustice and the putting in its .dace the practice of equity and kindness. I have never heard that doubted. It would be no compliment to the intelligence of any here present if I were to suppose any proof needed, that this in itself is religion. To the new spirit that has come or is coming over the age—so many words of the Great Master—now of burning indignation- now of pityful tender, uess—and now of earnest pleading—are awakening a deep conviction in the souls through whose profound depths they still sound with commanding power, that abso lutely the whole of religion is summed nn in the consecration of one's life to the bring,: ing a kingdom of heaven into this world • and that is nothing else than the aim we find in all Charles Dickens's books. Thereis no other kingdom of heaven than the rale of equity and kindness over lies and cheats. But that is not nearly all that has te be said. The question of religion is always not only one of matter, but also of manner Now, with that general aim in view, lhave; repeatedly asked myse'.f— in following hjg exposure cf evil—what is the spirit, the teeliog.the moral seutiirent that the heart catches ? And I have invariably fonnd it juit that which I do and should receive from a study of the evangelic narrative : An in. tense sympathy with the eiring weakness of humanity ; an equally intense hatred cf deliberate fraud and wickedness; an im." perishable faith in the teautie3 and triumphs of goodness ; a tenacious confi. deuce in the possibilities of human beings under the guidance of divine goodness. I find myself hating evils, but loving men,— I find myself loving men, because there is scarcely any man beyond the possible reach of that goodness. Now there is nothing so proves to my mind the genuine religion of a book, as that it leaves me, in thought and feeling, just where.tie highest and best religion leaves me. May I be bold enough here to put Charles Dickens by the side of another great writer who may be said to divide with him the honour of the most popular English author of this age—l meau Thomas Carlyle— because it forcibly brings out Ditkena* peculiarity. It is possible, in the treatment of vice, to commit two errors : it may be so presented in its bold audacity as to make crime heroic, which is immcral in its tandency, or it may be so preseuted as to provoke a contempt for mankind, which, as Charles Kiugsley points out, is a dangerous influence. I have often painfully felt both these errors present in the works of that truly gnat master in literature- Thomas Carlyle. I cannot discover the smallest trace of either in all Dickens' books. Now, if it be true that in all that' be has written, Dickens makes all crimed*, testable, aud all virtue admirable ; tbat he invariably leads you to love mankind, and to feel that the lowest may be Teached and rescued hy goodness and love, I need not remind any ore how that is entirely tha spirit of onr own Christian religion. Here let me give you the impressions of tour men, each of whom must carry great weight' arid each in a sphere widely different from that of the others, John Rur-kin in a criticism on Dickons remarks :—

" The essential value and truth of Dickens's writings have been unwisely lost sight of by many thoughtful persons, merely because he presents his truth with some colour of caricature. Unwisely, be. cause Dickens' caricature, though often gross, is never mistaken. Allowing for his manner of telling them the things he tells us are always true. I wish that he could think it right to limit his brilliant exaggera tion to works written only for public amusement; and when he takes up a snb ject of high national impoitance, such as that which he handled iv " Hard Times," that he would use severer and more accurate analysis. The usefulness of that work (to my mind in several aspects the greatest he has written) is, with many persons, seriously diminished, because Mr Bouuderby is a dramatic monster, instead of a characteris tic example of a worldly master; and Stephen Blackpool, a dramatic perfection, iustead of a characteristic example of an honest workman. But lot us not lose the use of Dickens' art and insight, because he chooses to speak in a circle of stage fire. He isentirelyright in hismain drift and purpose, in every book he has written ; and all of them, but especially "Hard Times," should be studied with close and earnest care by persons interested in social questions. They will find much that is partial, and, because partial, apparently unjust; but if they ex aruiue all the evidence ou the other side, which Dickens seems to overlook, it will appear, after all their trouble, that his view was the finally right ore—grossly and sharply told,"—Forster's Life, &c, vol. 3, p. 49,

We must remember whose thiscriticismiSj toritshigh aud uuquestiouablesble accuracy, and also for another point: Mr Luskin was not the man who could ever say that jl thing was right and yet not religious. J»o niau has done more to identify religion and right; and, therefore, when be says. Dic kens was entirely right in his main drift aud purpose, &c, he, without equivocation, pronounces upon his religion. To be en tirely right in one's life-work is the highest religion I know of—far beyond all creeds and forms. I know no name that would or should carry more weight. In my deep respect forMr Ruskiu's judgment, however, I do not think Dickens' exaggeration (every one of his oharaeters is exaggerated) a blemish j because in his religious aim ha desired to present to us qualities for out admiration or detestation : not so much the men or women. Qualities are best seen in their most extreme issues.

Tame, the Frenoh philosopher, and critic says of him (in Forster's language), "The result of such surface religion and morality, combined with the trading spirit (in Eng land), leads to so many national fornisor hypocisy anjl of greed, as well as worship for money as to justify this great writer ot the nation in his frequent choice of those vices for illustration iv his tales But bis defect of method again comes into play* He does not d^al with vices in the manner of a physiologist, feeling a sort of love tor them, and delighting iv their finer trails » if they were virtues. He gels ang v ore them. He cannot, like Balzac, leave morality out of account, and treat a P 3B".1 ™ however loathsome, as that great tale teller did, from the only safe ground of otm, that it is a force, and that force of whatever kind is good." c No one will doubt the correctness « Taine's judgment, hut it is highly c.unmen datory of Dickens'religious tone, which, as Tame says, is too earnest and genuine to os artistic. * Dickens sacrifices the ar!is. » the man ; he cannot coolly, artistically con template vices, because he so profounfliy hates them. He makes his books less per fect as a piece of intellectual workmanship, that he may make them intensely reu gions. [To be continued.}

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 1880.



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