SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE

nnn w . mjro I Thla Evening, 5.8 HI >H WATERS To -morrow Morning, S.lO !»UNBK'r.--Thlß Evening. 7.16. "> IJ.v RIBE.—To-Morrow Morning, 4.19 MOON'S AGE.—New Moon, Jaa. lat, 1.3a a.m,

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY. Roiorna, 8.8., To*er, from yyaney Waltaki, s.p., Hdie, from Tauranga Eouthen Cross, s.s., llelander, from Napier

DEPARTURES.

TO-DAY.

Waltaki, 8,8., Hdie, for Rus3ell Pirate, uchoonor, Trayte, for Penryhn Island

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

Tauranga and South—Albion, Monday San Franoisco-Oity of Sydney, Tuesday London-Wanganui, loading Tauranga-Glenolg, Thursday; Waitaki, Mon-

day EubsoU—lona, Monday Melbourne, via South—Rotarna, Thureday Whangareland Hussell-Waitaki, VVodnealay Now Plymouth and aouth-Fenguin, Tuesday Whangarei-Argyle, Tuesdays and Fridays ■ Waitaki, Friday

VESSELS EXPECTED.

City ot Sydney, P.M.S.O, from Sydney. Tuesday City oi New York, from San Francisco, Jan. U Albion, b.s., from Lovuka, Thursday f Wolvoiine.H.M.S., from Sydney, shortly LadyJocelyn, ship (K.V.P.S.), lrom London; Mnrgwet Safin, ship (J.K.L.U), from Lon don; sailed Octobtsr 29 A.a ao kKK> (R.F.M.K.). from Lon don, sailed October 24th. Sydonham, barque (J.M.FvQ), from London; ioadiDg looh Dee, barque, from Union; loadm* Beatrice Havorner, barquo(J.Q.O.L ), from NOW York, Bailed Sept. 26 Oabarfeidh, barque (3.Q.M.J.). from lionKkong Superior, barque, from New York; sailed Himalayaf barque (V.T.K.'M), from London; sailed November ,„.„_.. Ocean Ranger, barquentlne, (W.T.N.V.) from Lyttolton and New York Flirt, brlgantine (W.L.G.P.). from Lovuka Aotive, brlgantlne, from Samoa Borealis, brigantine. lrom Lyttelton Myrlle, brigantine, from Tonga Clansman, brlgantme, from Melbourne Defiance, brigtmtine, from Melbourno Ktkel, brigantino, from Uunodln Ryno, brigantino, from the ißiands Knorgy. schooner, from Noumea Dayspring, miß3ion schooner (W.N.8.M.), from tho Islands . Aoba, schooner, from New Caledonia Kdtth, aohooner, from Wallis Island Policeman, schooner, from Noumea Kstello, schooner, from Dunedin Gael, schooner, from Levnka Ovalau, schooner, from Raroton(?a Kato McGregor, schooner, from Timarn Marion, echoonor, from Norfolk Is and Norval, schooner, fiom Rarotonga Coronet, schooner, from Cooks Islands Atotohau, schooner, from KarotonKa Mnry Anderson, schooner, from Now Caledonia Posrl, ketch, from Rarotonga Reliance, ketch, from Tiroaru Eoyereijrn of the Seas, cutter, from Norfolk I.

IMPORTS.

Por Southern Cross, from N apler:—l2oo sheep, Per Hero :-33 packagesbacac, 22i Backs bark. — T. B. Hall, & Co.

Exßotorua—377 bnga Tasmanian ground bark, 31 baga bacon.-G. w. Binney.

Per Rotorui, from Sydney-1001 mats and gunnies sugar, 37 hags bark, 47 ba*a bacon, 10.1 ---caaks mm, 1H cases champagne, 270 cases geneva, 61 plates iron, 420 cases fruit, 25 cases vestaß, 24 cases and casks wine, 2i coils rope, 3 pairs oars, 1 boat, 51 packages Bundries.

Inwakds COABTwiBE,-Kuby, from Russell, ■with 60 tODS manganese; Kangatira, from •Omaha,wiih6otonsfl'evsoodand half aton of gum; Rata. from Port Charlep, with 32,000 feet timber; Lady of the Lake, from Thames, with 13,770 feet timber.

Oui WARDS COiSTWlSE.—Mercury, for Talruu; Rsngatira, for Omaha; Rata, for fort Charles; Adah, for Thames; lady of the Lake, for Thames.

The brigs mine Oamaru cleared at the Cus toms to day for Kaitara, where she will load with timber for Sydney.

The P.M.B.S. Company 's sfennislp City of New York left San Francisco on the 2let inst., and la, therefore, due here about tho 12th Jan,

The barque Wellington which has undergone very extensive repairs, proceeds to Kaipaia in Older to load with timber tor Melbourne.

The s.s. .Albion is announced to leave on Monday for Tauranga and the SontU.

The brigantine Oceoln will load with kauri cum for New York, fc-he has entered out at the Customs.

It U expected thst the bnrque Dunlco will be Vlacod on the berth at this port for London by the agents ot Messrs Shaw Savillo and Co.

The " Bay of Plenty Times " says that the Union Steamship Company has order d a small steamer to be built, which, when completed, will be placed on tho trade between Opotiki acd Tsutasgn.

RJTho s.s. Southern Cross arrived in TaranuM from Napter early this morning. She dis charged her sheep, and came up tho harbour during the afternoon. Mr A. Murphy, chief office, reports:—Left Napier on Friday at noon, and had strong Northerly wind to East Cape, which was rounded on Saturday morning. Put into Hick's Bay thac morning and remained there till 8 p.m. Sheltered at JOreti from Sunday morning till monday at 6 p.m.

The following notices to mariners has been issued by the Marine Department at Welling ton:—Notice is hereby Riven that, from and .after the lst January next, tho Timaru Harbour Board will exhibit two red lights from the end of the breakwater at that place. These lights will bs about 10 feet apart and 18 feet above high-water mark, and will be visible nil round seaward at a dißtanca of about four miles in clear weather.

ISLAND SHIPPING.

Wo aro indebted to Mr P. K. Thomson, super cargo of tho Sybil, for tho following items of Island Shipping:— H.M.S. Pelican Failed from Huabine on tto Bth November for Coqoimbo. The French ironclad t rte«to Victorionpo, sailed from Tahiti on 16th November on a cruise.

H.M.S. Torquoiso was at Tahiti on the 17th November, and 'expected to sail for Coquimbo on the arrival of Admiral Stirling or on arrival oC the San Franolsco mail about sth December, unless orders were countermanded.

The French transport Beanmnnolr, steam ram Guichen, despatch Chasseur, gunboats Aoral and Oroheua. wereiin Tahiti.

The German barque Lira was loading with copra at Tahiti for Lisbon.

THE WEATHER.

(1) WIND ESTIMATED AS C—Calm F. Br.—Fresh Breeze I*—Light St.—Stormy Br.—Breeze G.—Gale (2.) ANEROID BAKOMETKK. (3.) WEATHEB ESTIMATED AS B.—Blue sky, be theat- o.—Overcast.the whole mosohere clear or sky covered with heavy thick clouda C. — Clouds, passing P.—Passing showers clouds Q.—Sqaally D.—Drizzling rain 11. — Hatn, continued F.—Foggy rain G. — Gloomy, dark B.—Snow weather T.-Thunder H.-Hail U. - Ugly, threatening li.—LightninK appearance

COMMERCIAL.

. Evening Star Offiob, Tuesday. Carbines and Lusher held a eale of baoon and hams, etc., to-day. Bacon fetched lid; jowls 2Jd; ham, 6d; onions, }d: cheese, 2s to 33 64, a 1 according to quality; potatoes, 2s to 23 Cd perowt.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Unmsb :—

Tnis Day.

For Whanfcarci Heads, Wbangarel, Manga pai, Ruaßell. and Kawakawa, par Waitaki, at I p.m. For Thames, per Kntorprlso, at 5.30 p.m.

Thursday, 30th inatant. For Glsborne, Napior, Southern port?, Chatham Islands (via, Jjj ttelton), nnd Australian Colonies, per Kotonia, at 8 a.m. For Walwera, To Kapa, Craigioburn, and Warkworih, por Rose Casey, at 10 a.m, For Thames, per Rotpinahana, at 11 a m. Kor Norfolk lalank, per Speed well, at 2 p m. For Whiiiangi, Tairua, lauranga, and Opotlki, por GlenolK, at i p.m.

Friday, 31st instant. For Thames, per Rotomahano, at 11.30 a m. Kor Waihoko and Coromaodel, pet Coro

mandol, at 2,30 p.m. For Wangarol Heads and Wangaroi, por Anrylo, at 1 p.m.

Tuesday, Ith Jananry, 1881. Per s.B. City of Sydnoy at follows :— For Sandwich Inlands, United States of Amorica. Canada, British Columbia, Central and South Amerioa. and British and Foreign West Indies, Japan, and China, including Hongkong, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and nowapapors, at 11.30 a.n>. Late lettora boaring an nxtra foe of sixpence In addition to tho postage, will bo recelvod by tho Mail Agent ou board tho steamer up to tho time of sailing. This mail will bo duo in London on Tuesday, Fobruary 16, 1831. ROBT. KAYE, Acting Chief Postmaster.

Meetings, Entertainments, &c.

DitCKMiittu 29, 1830. Theatro Rojal—" Our Friends," 8 p.m. Choral Hall—Mi-3 Hampaon'a Address, 7.30 p.m.

Working Mon'a Ciub— Mooting of Hrioklayors labourerß. Kloctlon of offlcors, ore, 7.30 p m.

NOTICE TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Gumdigokr.—Tho price of Knlpara gum has fallen £2 per ton since last Friday.

BIRTH.

ITACIVHOB.-On 28th mat., at hor roaider.oo, U ißßcll-Btreot, Ponsonby, Mrs Frank 13, Mao inioo, of a daughtor.

MARRIAGES.

YVOOD-DORAN.-On December 24th, 1880, at tho Registry Ofilco, Auckland, Wilkonson Wood, of County Jmrham, Kngland, to Uidolla Gcrtrudfc, tho only daughter 6l! tha lato Wil liam Doran, of this city.—Homo papers plcaso copy.

DEATH.

GEORGHI.—On Decomber 28th, 1880, at Parncll, Leonard, youngest eoii o£ Hdward Goorgo; aged 15 months. STAVKLICY.—On l!)th December, nt Gcflong, Victoria, Mm Annie Staveley ; aged 68 years.

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

WEDNESDAY. DECEMBER 20, 1880.

For c cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future iv the distance, And the kcoil that we can do.

Tuui, tho murderer of Miss Dobio, paid the last penalty of bis crime in the Wellington s;aol this moraiug. From the description of tho proceedings con nected with the execution telegraphed by our Wellington correspondent, it would appeal' that tho culprit, having fully realised tho nearness of his end, had steeled his resolution to conceal any fear of death that he may have felt. With the execution of Tula the last scene in this tragic occurrence closes. The fact, however, that retribu tion has followed so swiftly on the perpetration of tbo crime, cannot but be productive of a salutary effect on the native mind. Tho Maories will understand that the law is powerful to vindicate itself, and will be restrained by that knowledge from acts of murder and rapine iv exposed parts of the colony. The fact that Tuhi exhibited no indications of fear of death need excite no surprise. Con tempt of death is a trait more or less characteristic of all savages aad semi civilised races, and may bo attributed more to callousness and ignoi'auce than to any better quality. It is said that Tuhi has made a written confession, which will no doubt be handed to the press for publication when an official translation has been prepared.

FKOM all parts of the city and suburbs come complaints ot growing larrikiniom; and even iv the quiet district of Onehunga information was given at the last Borough meeting relative to the destruction of Cor poration property at the Springs. Builders especially sufter—their property U pilfered, and works in progress disfigured by vile and offensive practices. Pences, plastered work, and gardens are all favourite objects for the exhibition of juvenile destructiveuess. Then from Parnell we hear of systematic annoy ance to inoffensive Chinamen, and other glaring acts of youthtul law-breaking. The outrages on visitors to the Do main committed by hordes of boys, ana blackguards of a larger type, are rapidly closing that resort against respectable women. These oit'ences have doubtless been promoted by the leniency with which juvenile exploitsare usually regarded. When the police have succeeded in discovering an offender, it is rarely that a magistrate cares to impose more than a small fine, or order the culprit more severe corporal punishment than a whipping at the hands of bis parents. Without any reformatory machinery it is hard to see what else a Magistrate can do, but care should be taken that the whipping is not a sham. It is rather note worthy that a similar question is now agitating the British Magistracy. Sir William Harcoutt, the ~ new Home Secretary, has issuedan edict to the " great unpaid" declaring against imprisonment for juvenile offenders, on the ground that " evil communications corrupt good manners.'1 Boys under fourteen he says must be whipped. Since this edict has gone forth, it is asserted that there has been an astonishing increase in the average age of apple-stoalers and stone-throwers; they are all "over fourteen" by their own account. In several individual cases Sir AYilliarn Harcourt has interfered and released the prisoner. The columns of the " Times" are tilled with the cries of injured J.P's., and letters of inquiry fill the dome Secretary's post bag. Meanwhile, aMr H. B. T. Strangewaj writes to say that the law of South Australia has .always left it to the discretion of the magistrate to decide between imprisonment and a whipping. A largely attended town meeting was held in Manchester to consider the subject, when Lord Derby, in moving the first resolution, said :—

" They had to consider how to deal with I offenders who were old enough to bo mischievous, and sometimes even dan gerous ; who were old enough to know thai they were doing wrong, but who yet cou.'d not fully realise the gravity of their actions. Whatever they ought to do for offenders of this clssa, there was one thing which to his mind it was perfectly clear they ought not to do—it was to send them to gaol (hear, hear). He said that, not because of the bad associations to which they might bo exposed ; because in a well-conducted piio'm no association with criminals ought to be possible. Ho said it, because a term of imprisonment left a life-long stigma upon the subject. He entirely agreed with what Sir W. Harcourt had said upon the matter, and as a chairman of quarter sessions had alway acted so far as the law would allow him in that direction, What he (Lord Derby) recommended was that no boy under fourteen should be sent to prison; an extended power of moderate corporal punishment tip to a certain age ; and that a distinct and separate place of detention for offenders who it was not desirable to send to gaol should be provided. Lord .Houghton also SDoke, and a series of resolu tions, expressing the opinion of the meeting on the subject, were passed." We agree thoroughly with the spirit of this reform, which, though well-established in the colonies, makes a complete revolution iv the customary English treatment of

juvenile offendcl'9. But ther may be such a thing ao'carrying leniency to the othe. extreme. Lads who commit trilling acts of boyish folly should be dealt with very leniently indeed, but where acts of malicious destructiveness, or iilthi ness are committed, such as have been reported only too often re cently, the police shouldnseevcryexertion to discover the offenders, and the punishment ought to be exemplary. Confinement with hardened criminals is not to be thought of for a moment, but some isolated detention and sound birching, in aggravated cases, is necessary to check what is now a very serious nuisance and f uiurc danger,

By the death ot George Eliot, England haß lost its principal literary woman, she was "facile princcps", and there was no second. The books of some other lady writers have doubtless bad a wider circulation, but popularity has never been a trustworthy test of worth. Her books, elaborated with great care and painstaking, were the fruits of an iutollect naturally powerful, and enriched by constant study and thought. She had tho ndvantage too of being familiarly acquainted with the best minda of the day ; and henco it is not surprising that her works reveal on every ]>ago those qualities of which authoresses as a general rule are lacking, viz. great breadth and profundity of thought, and remarkably extensive learning. For these reasons her volumes cannot be scampered over like the ordinary circulating library novel, but must be read carefully, and will well repay study. For another reason her stories require closo attention in the reading. They aro not merely characterised by extensive scholarship and deep thinking, but they exhibit also a truly wonderful knowledge of human nature. Georgo Eliot was v horn observer and chronicler of the moods, passions, sorrows, thoughts, and feelings, to which all classes and conditions of men and women aro liable. Consequently her characters live in her pages. They aro not mere shadows with lino speeches thrust into their mouths—speeches all moulded after tho samo pattern, liko thoso in Ouida'a earlier productions—but each has its distinctive qualities, ami acts its own peculiar part with natural consistency. Look at, for example, the Rev. Mr Casaubon in " Middlcmarch," the learned clergyman who was writing the great work on Chrisiti auity. This sober, dignified scholar never speaks a sentence, or docs an action which one wculd deem unlikely in him, which does not seem perfectly iv keeping. Ah his sayings and doings aro of a piece ; and tho reader, impressed with the truth and naturalness ot the delineation, cannot help taking a lively interest in it. But Mr Casaubon is not an exception ; the rest of her portraits arc just as happy, though all may not bo so carefully finished. Description of chatactcr seems to us to have boeu George Eliot's peculiar excellence. In the construction of plots many novelists have proved themselves her superior; hence some of the greater attractions the latter have for the ordinary reader. Her plots arc often slight and transparent, though amply sufficient for her purpose, which un doubtedly was the development and display of various phases of human character. Some of her "situations," too, might be called antiquated, ns witness tho reading of tho will in " Middlemarch ;" but with what new interest she has invested the familiar scene. Her word picture is as vigorous and lifelike in its department as Wilkio's canvas one. There is a fault to which nearly all lady writers must plead guilty, vie., haste. They always appear to be in a desperate hurry, anxious to rush their books into print. Not so George Eliot. The diction of her writings proves her care. It would be next to impossible to mend her composition, so correct p.nd polished is it everywhere. There is noslip-shndEuslish, doubtful grammar, inelegant and inaccurate metaphor; in every sentence there is tho right word in the right place. Her real name was liVans, and the reason of her assuming the noin de plume which has become almost a household word, was probably to protect her lirst publications from the neglect and contempt with which they might have, been treated had the author's sex been known. It h likely that her device was not without result. She was born in 1820, ami made her lirst essay in authorship at 2G years of agn. This was the translation of Slrauss's " Lilc of Jesus,' which had startled tho whole of Europe a few years previously. It would thus seem that George Kliot was inclined to heterodoxy early iv her career. But how ever much wo may disagreo with her opinions—which give such dire offence iv some quarters—wo think that unqucstiou ably she was a religious woman. The deep ami absorbing interest which from first to last she took in moral and religious pro blems shows this, we think, plainly enough. She wav at this time one of the contributors to tho "Westminster Keview," with which Bcntham and tho two Mills were then closely conncctel. Her career as a novelist does not seem to have begun till 1858, when her "Scenes of Clerical Life" appeared in Blackwood's magazine. A year later one of her most popular books appeared, viz, "Adam B'-de," in which her method of handling a delicate subject is remarkable. It is note worthy too for the picture it gives of the early Methodists, a sect with whom one would imagine the writer would have but little sympathy. "The Mill on the Floss " was published in IS6O ; and that beautiful littls book, poem one might almost call it, "Silas Marner," dining the next year. In 1863 " Komola" appeared, a truly magnificent work. The Florence of nearly four centuries ago is here brought vividly before us ; and interwoven with one of her best plots the story of Savonarola, monk, reformer, and martyr, is narrated as no biographer has told it. Three years after "Felix Holt, the Radical," appeared. In it history was again laid under contribu tion. This time it was the story of ihe Chartists, the subject treated of in Canon Kingslcy's " Alton Locke." It is not merely gallantry which makes us give tho preference to the lady's book. Her next two publications were poems; and then in 1871-72 appeared "Middlemarch," o study of provincial life, which ha* been called the greatest novel of the century. Though lengthy, and with few or no excit ing incidents such as the modern "sensa tional novel" abounds in, this book is never tedious, and all through it is marked with the same care and elaboration seen iv her shorter works. She published another poem in 1874, and two years after, " Daniel Deronda, " which is worthy to rank with " Middlemarch." One of the chief charac teristics of it is the evidence it shows of her exhaustive study of tho condition of the Jewish nation iv modern times. She com bats that common exclamation "1 don't like Jews," and pleads their c»use with powerful effect, the result of enthusiasm inspired by kuowledge. One more bock closes the list, viz., "The Impressions of Theophrastus Such," a Rlight production compared with some former oucs, but show ing no falling-oil' in power. It is a collec tion of piquant essays and sketches, one of which is devoted to the consideration of the treatment tho Jews have received at the hands of the professors of Christianity. Whether she was engaged on any work when death overtook her remains to be seen ; but if she has left behind au autobiography of any kind, beyond question it will be an extraordinary composition. It ■will have a wider c;rculation than even J. S. Mill's. Of what George Eliot has written, very little can be deemed ephemeral. She did not write for to-day merely, but turned oat work calculated to survive. "Adam Bedo " and " Daniel Deronda " will be read when "Lady Audley's Secret," "East I.ynne," " Comin1 thro' the Kye," and " Held in Bondage" will be worth nothing even as waste paper.

As the Star will not be published on Saturday (New Year's Day), announcements for that and subsequent days, including the subjects for Sunday's discouives, should be forwarded before the usual time, in order to obtain due publicity.

We have several letters on hand which, by long waiting for a chanco of insertion, have become antiquated aud out of date. "An Observer" objects to the system of attaching certificates of merit to tho exhibits in the Weslcyan Exhibition. Mr George Welsh, of .Sebastapol Villa, Lake Taka puna, complains of discourtesy at the Lake Post-office. His complaint should be sent to the Chief Postmaster, who, we have no doubt, jwill investigate it. "R,L." hopes the old pensioners will stand out against " the rascality of extorting a paltry penny before giving) them their pensions to help the colony to pay off its debis," and he trusts the Home Government will appoint a Koyal Commission to inquire into the doings of the Colonial Government. We learn that Mr Brown is not sent to the common prison as a criminal, but merely detached in bafe keeping in the debtors' prison, pending the Colonial Secretary being communicated wilh in reference to the state of bis mind.

The contractor for the erection of St. Sepulchre's Church is not allowing the grass to grow under hi 3 feet. The foun dations are laid and the framework is already up, so that the passer-by can now. form a very correct idea oi the dimensions of the buiidiDg. It will certaiDly have an imposing appearance when completed, and will considerably enhauco the general aspect of the immediate neighbourhood.

His Excellency Sir Arthur Gordon is expected in Auckland early next month, coining oyerland from Wellington to Napier, and thence to Auckland v.i Taupo and the Lake Country aud Waikato. It has not yet been definitely settled whether or not His Excellency will visit the districts north of Auckland. The s.s. Hinemoa will come on to the Mauukaivaud bs in readiness to convoy Sir Arthur back to Wollingtou via Taranaki, which he will visit en route.

Mrs Hampsqn, tho lady-preacher, con ducted another of her evangelistic services in the Choral Hall last evening, founding her discourse ou St. Matthew, c. 15, v. 28, "Be it unto thee even as thou wilt," Among ministers present, we noticed the Kcv. A. Uarrick, and Dr. Wallis. Mrs Hampson will deliver another of her dis courses in tho Choral Hall thisevoning.

Tho steamer Alert was burnt ou the Waikato Kivor on Monday. She was anchored at Ngaruawahia, having brought excursionists from Wliatawhata, and during the temporary absence of tho en gineer she caught lire. She was in flames when ho returned. The hull was of iron, and was not injured, but the after part of tho vessel was destroyed. Tho origin of the lire is unknown.

To tho Editor: Sir, I wish to correct your notico of tha examination of the Uevouport school in so far as it states my son avus awarded a prize; at least it he was awarded such by the examiners, he did not receive it. -I am, <&c, James Richmond.

There is always a great scarcity of water for horses at summer meetings, tho result of which 18 that tho goneral public apply, to a t»reat extent, to Mr J. l'cacli, whose resi dence adjoins tho racecourse. Mr Peach lias to cart his water to the houso, and is therefore much out of pocket by supplying water ad libitum, uud has resolved to make a moderate charge in futuro, and keep n largo supply rondy with men to serve it out ami also v stock nf bucketsr The supply of water will be kept ai Peach's stables ad joiuiiig tho racecourse Avail.

Tho Clirislchurcli autlioritics aro dcnline vigorously with tho lauikin nuisanco by adopting the only mode of treatment that is likely to provo ell'cctual. Three boys convicted yesterday at the Lytleltoii Police Comt with stenlinp: sheet copper were sentenced to bo flogged in the gaol, while at Cliristchurch four other Inds convicted of petty larceny were sentenced to a short imprisonment with 12 lashes each.

"Oill Yo who teach tho Ingenuous youth of nations- Holland, Franco, KDgland, Germany, or Spain ; I pray yo flon them xipon all occasions, It mends their morals-novcr mind tho pain."

The united congregations of St. Mat thew's and St. Thomas' held their annual picnic yesterday at Ellcralie. About 500 adults and children were present, and between tho Miowers oii]oycd the treat with feelings of hilarity aud unbounded cheerfulness. A uumhor of sports were inaugurated, aud dancing on the lawn formed a primacy feature in the partial sun shine, A good luncheon was provided for appeasing tho appetite. Mr Impey's baud contributed largely to the joyousness of the holiday. Among the company wcro the Key. W. Tebb*," aud lady, and Nov. Mr Uitchcock, of St. Thomas's ; Drs. Hooper and Dawson, and ladies ; Major and Mrs Withers; Messrs Dooniu and Howdeu, churchwardens, and other members of the church. The athletic sports and merry-go rounds wcro largely patronised by the children. The new organ of St. Thomas's will be opened on the 4th of January next, when Bishop Cowie will preside aud deliver an address.

Tho Chief Justice of one of tlic Austra lian Colonies, au able mau who has carved out his own fortune, and risen from the ranks, but who is so unlucky as to have a brother-in-law a confectioner, recently paid most marked attentions to tho daughter of bis Excellency the Governor. The girl didu't object by any means, but Lady J., while admitting that "she had no animosity to the poor jittle man," observed that " we must draw the lino at buns, my dear." Miss J. has been sent home—" not well," you know. The sad case is one not of a Way wo have, buc of a Way we won't have.

A cable message the other day stated that the proprietors of the " Sydney Bulletin " had offered £1000 reward for particulars of tho fate of Lcichhardt. Tho offer is as follows :—" Tho Fate of Leichhardt.—One Thousand Pounds reward.—The Proprietors of the "Bulletin" have much pleasure in announcing that they are prepared ti pay a sum of One Thousand Pounds for the first conclusive and substantial proof of the place where Dr. Ludwig Leichhardt, the Great Australian Explorer, mot his death subject to the following conditions :—The information to be clear and unchallengeable. The same to bo kept absolutely secret until communicated to and published by the "Sydney Bulletin." All relics or objects recovered and produced in support of the evidence oll'ercd to be handed over to the Propiietors of the "Bulletin," who will undertake to present them to the Australian Museum. The cum of One Thousmd Pounds has been deposited iv tho Australian Joint Stock Bank, Sydney, to pay tho reward abovo oiTercd."

A little while ago a detective named Kelly was fatally wounded in Dublin by a man who was caught "red-handed," bear ing a still smoking pistol. A jury was shortly afterwards empanelled to try the as-jassiu, and each of their wives received by post, the same evening, a neatly-made widow's cap. The murderer was acquitted — on the ground that his victim's|death was owing, not to the shot, but to the incom petence of tke surgeon who treated him.

The second anniversary of the Arch Hill Sunday-school was most successfully cele brated on Sunday last iv the Newton West school. Mr G. Hcmus gave an interesting address in the afternoon, and the Rev, R. Taylor conducted the evening service. The singing of the children was very cllectivc, Mr Badcliffe conducting. Mr G. Siunett ac compauied on the harmonium, The collec tion amounted to £2 8s 2d. On Boxing Day the children's trpat was provided in Mr Mcllwain's paddocks, New North Koad, aud the weather keeping fair a most enjoy able day was spent by all. Games of every description were organised, and the teachers manifested much activity in providing for the amusement, comfort, and prorision ing ot the little ones. In the after noon a very good cricket match — Jonas v. Excelsior, wa3 played by the elder lads and the teachers, resulting :—Jonas, Urst innings, 58 ; second innings, 53 ; total: 113. Excelsior, first innings, 35 ; second innings, 17 : total, 52. After tea races for book prizes were highly interesting, and much excitement was caused by two little girls who tied three times, and only a fluke won Tilly Purchase the fourth.' Three cheers for Mr Mclhvain, and general con eratulations, concluded a day's sport with out accident or regret.

"A Ratepayer complains about the time at which the night-soil carts commence operations iv Grafton Koad and Symonds street. He should address a letter to the Local Highway Board,

I We have received the fifth number of " Freethonght," published in Sydney, The opehing article is devoted to a biography of the lato John Tyerman, who was the son of a Durham trader and agriculturalist. Mr Tyerman's first Charge was as a minister of the LTnited Methodist Free Church at Chesterfield in Derbyshire, from which, in 1864, he was chosen to represent and extend their Free Church principles in New Zealand, which located him in or near Chtistchurch for a few yeare. Dissensions in the congregation caused him to resign his charge, but a number of friends formed a separate Church upon the old principle?, the new body being designated " The Inde pendent Church." Fresh difficulties caused his removal to Victoria, where he became a probationary minister of the Church of England; but becoming a convert to Spirit ualism, ho devoted himself to lecturing throughout the colonies, and in America and Great Britain, on that subject. He lectured for the last time iv Sydney on October 10, but having suffered 'from ill-health for some time, ou the 27th November he was attacked with spasms in tho stomach. Six hours later he fell asleep, and woke no more. j

The following is the state of Her Majesty's Gaol, Auckland, for the week ending 25th December, 1880 :—On remand, 4 males ; Awaiting trial, 5 males; penal servitude, 38 males; hard labour, 74 males, 21 females ; imprisonment, 1 male; default of bail, 7 males ; debtor, 1 male; received during the week, 18 males, 6 females; discharged, 12 males, 6 females; total in gaol, 130 males, 21 female?.

We beg to acknowledge tl<e receipt per Sibyl of files of the "Messagcr do Tahiti "up to the date of her departure. There is very little news to be obtained from them, how ever, the bulk of their space being occupied with official decreess and announcements. The colonists, we perceive, are complaining of frequent desertions of their hired labour, and the 'authorities appear to be taking steps to put a stop to the practice. Mr Paul Emile Charalot, Judge of the Supreme Court;, died on the 3rd October, after a short and painful illness, and was interred on the following day. He was formerly President of the Law Society of Paris. A lire broke out in the smithy of Mr Brown, on the morning of tbe 21st August, but tho damage done was inconsiderable. This I constitutes the only news of any intereat^^

At the inquest yesterday oa the body of Adams, who was burnt to death, in tue fire at Shortland on Saturday last, the jury returned tho following verdict:—" The deceased (Joiin Adams) came by his death by fire which occurred in a building situated in Hape Creek, the property of Mr Greenville, on the morning of the 25th inst, but how or in what manner tho fire arose there is no evidence to show."

The interesting and successful Catholic bazaar wan finally closed last evening after a favourable run of five days, with over £840 towards the new cathedral. The persever ance of the promoters and patrons of the undertaking deserve praise for their zeal in the cause of the Catholic Church, and the gratifying reward of their labours. The ladies at the stalls, and indeed every person connected, seem to have been of one heart aud one mind in promoting the object in view, and consequently a general harmony prevailod throughout. In ad dition lo the numerous attractions of last evening, the Art Union of valuable goods ut Mrs Ureenwood's stall, affords some pleasurable excitement. The following were the fortunate ticket holders : -Ist prize, suite of furniture Mr !?. Hcskoth; 2nd, inlaid walnut centre table, Mr D. G. McDonnell; 3rd, Japaneso work table, Mr O'Sullivan; 4th, illustrated family Bible, Mr J. T. Uoylan ; sth, pair of oil paintings, Mr W. J. O'Sullivan; Cth, illustrated family Bible, Mr D. lioan j 7th, pair of oil paintings, Mrs Dignan; Bth, om broidered cushion, Mr G. Clunes ; 9tb, oil painting, Mr Gus Jones ; 10th, Chineso tea set, Mrs Watorhouso ; 11th, oil painting, Miss Tcutenbcrg; 12th, pair pictures, Mr 8, Stoddart; 13th, office iukEtnnd, Mr G. Leahy ; 14th, pair vasca, Mrs Stevenson. His Grace Arch bishop Steins desires pub licly to thank tho Inuios and their assis tants, the gentlemen who formed tho com mittee, and all who directly and indirectly nssisted in making the bazaar a success. succosh. Iv addition (o the clergymen ulready named as visitors to and patrons of the bazaar tho names of Father O'Hcilly and Father Downey, 0.5.13. must bo men tioned. Great credit is due Mr Peter Dig nan, Mr W. G. Connolly, and others for the very onorgotic and assiduous manner hi which they have exerted themselves for the success of the undertaking. The I lob,on Band, under Mr Christopher, also merit a word of praiso for their gratuitous musical performances.

The annual concert in aid of the Convent schools was held last ovening at St Mary's Hall, Ouchvaigii. His Graco Archbishop Steins was present, accompanied by the Very Key. Father Fynes, V.G., Father Walter Maudonnld, and Father Paul, the much esteemed pastor of the district. The follow ing piogranuno was gone through :—Over ture, "Fantasia" (pianoforte) Misses Moran, Honan, and policy ; Scotch airs, concerted, Misses Neilson, Mulkcro, aud Hand ; solo, piano, " Her Bright Smile Haunts me Still,'' Mi3s Hand ; song and chorus. " Come o'er the MooulltSea," Misses Coll'cy, Swan, and Ralph ; song, " A Flower from my Mother's Grave." Miss Swan; 1 Sparkling Cascade," Misses Mulkere, Moran. anuM. Morau ; ''Bonnie Dundee," Miss Neilson ; galop, "Galupcde Bravoura," Misses Moran, Mulkero, and Honan ; solo, " Golden Bells," Miss Moran; song aud chorus, " Chiming Bells," lady amateurs ; "Believe me if all those endearing," Miss Swan ; waltz, " Mcssongerof Love," Misses Worsp and Mulkcro (pianoforte), Mits Morau (harmonium); duet, "Ellin Cull," Misses OolTee aud Swan; duet, "ABar biero di Seriglia," lady amateurs ; " Auld Lang Syne," lady amateurs ; duet, " Mas saniello,"|lady amateurs; solo, "Carnival do Vonisc," Miss M. Moran ; solo, " Harp Golienne," Miss Honan. A drama, " The Duchess of Manstcldt," was performed by the pupils of tho Sisters of Mercy, and needs no comment, seeing that it pleased the audience. The instrumental music was very creditablo, and evidenced care in training. The singing of the several ladies in tho song and chorus, " Chiming Bells of Long Ago," deserves mention. The gentle man who oiliciated as usher and M.C. can not be too highly complimented for his courteous behaviour on the occasion.—(COB RESPOMDEHT.)

Cablegrams to-day announce the death of Mr Mechi, who for tbo last forty years fought the battle of scientific agriculture. The following biography is from " Men of the Tiino " :—John Joseph, son of Giacomo Mechi, a citizeu of Bologna, who early in life settled iv England, and having been uaturalized, obtained a post in the house hold of Georgo 111., born in London, May 2?, 1802, was, at the age of 16, placed as a clerk in a mercantile house in the New foundland trade, where he remained eleven years. In this capacity he contrived to turn tho usual hour allowed for dinner to a profitable account by selling, among his friends and acquaintances in the city, a email and inexpensive article of which he had bought the patent. The consequence was tbat, mainly by his own exertions, he was enabled, about ] 827, to set up en his own account, as a cutler, iv a very small shop iv Lcadenhall-street ; aud between 1830 and 1840 ho realized a handsome fortune by the " Magic Kazor Strip " which bears his name. In 1840, having attentively studied English farming, he resolved to at tempt souiei, improvements in agriculture, and accordingly bought a small farm of about 130 acres, at Tip tree Heath, one of the least productive districts in Essex. Here ho resolved to try what he could effect by the system of deep drainage, and by the application of steam power. The Essex farmers laughed at him as an enthusiast; the C3imtry gentlemen held aloof from him ; but he persevered till he brought his sma'l farm iuto such a state of productiveness tbat he has made it realise annually an average handsome profit, while the press has acknowledged the services which he has rendered to agricultural science by the ex hibition of modern processes upon his model farm. Ho was appointed to the Shrievalty of London in July, 1856", and elected an Alderman in the following year. About the same time he was presented with a hand some testimonial of the value of £500, sub ssribod by noblemen and gentlemen inter ested in science and agriculture at home and abroad. Mr Mechi has been tor some years a member of the Council of the Society of Arts, and was a Juror iv tho Department of Art and Science at the Ureat Exhibition of 1851, and at the Industrial Exhibition at Pans in 1855, to which he was specialiy sent by Her Majesty's Government He has written " Letters on Agricultural Im provements," published in 1845 ; "Experi ence in Drainage," iv 1847; and "How to Farm Profitably," in 1860. The latter is a new and enlarged edition of an account of his improved agricultural system, which, in a cheap and popular form, has reached a sale of 10.000 copies. After eight years' service as Alderman of London he resigned his gown, very much against tho wishes ot his constituonts. He retained the office of Magistrato for Middlesex, and one of the Deputy-Lieutenants of the City of Lon don.

Every purchaserof to-morrow's Observer will stand a chance for a valuable Diamond lilng worth £10, and for three other prizes worth respectively £3, £2, and £1 83.-[ Advt.]

The Xmas and New Year's number of the Observer, ready at noon to-morrow,contains " A Digger's Christmas," an origloal story by C. 0. Montrose; "Never Mind tho Coat,'1 "Quilter King's Christmai Eve," "Tlpi for 1881," " The Ghost in tho Groan Room," and tho usual variety of social, theatricil, ami sporting goaslp. Twonty pounds worth of Christmas prizos are given away with this number.— [Advt.J Mr H. N. Abbott informs shareholders in the Molbourne champion etakea that shares must be paid up to-day ((Wednesday), as tho drawing will take plaoe tomorrow evening at 7.30. 1 {We draw attention to the advertisements to-night about the St. Matthew's 'Xmas Treo Tickets for the things remaining can be obtained next Thursday evening; price fid. This a good chat co for the children aa there are lots of toys left. I

The members of tho Loyal Howick Lodge of Oddfollowß will co'obrats thoir iih anni versary od Friday next by a dinner and ball at Wagstaffß Hotel, in the village of Howick.

vVe notice that Mr George Sibbin will ofTor on Thursday (tc-morrowl the leases of allotments at Meoh&nic's Bay, Wynyard Pier, and Breakwater, by ordor o' tho Auckland Harbour Board. Tho ealo will bo commenced at 11 a.m. Conditions, draft lease, oto, may bo seen nt tho offices of the Board.

Tho service of song "Jessica's First Prayer ' will bi given to morrow oveninor in the United Methodist Free Church lit 7.30 p.m., tho object being to gather funds for the annual treat of the scholars of the Sunday-school.

The concert and ball to be held on Monday evoning noxt promises to be a genuine now year carnival, atjd tbe programme is Bnfiloiently powerful and magnetic to fill that unique temple of melody, the Choral Hall. The opening tcene will intrcduco the pooular Dean's Minstrels who will Rive their refined and c!a sical chair performance, JnterspeMed with wit, local brevities, tales of humour, and litest conundrums. The second part will be sustained by lady and gentleman amateurs who have kindly proffered their services. 'J he minstrels are actively preparing for the event in order that the various renderings may be as perfect as minstrels can make them. The object of the concert is to aid the funds of No. 3 Company ot Volunteers, whose excellent bnid will take a musical part in the proceeding.

The following tenders for supplies for the Home for Neg'ooted and Destitute Children, for tix. months, from Ist January, ISBI, have been accepted:—J. W. Prime for groceries—oat mea', 103 per 100.b5.; No. 1 sugar, 4d ; rios, 24a percwt.; pearl birley, 26a perowt.: soap, Ms perowt ; treacle, 3Jd per lb.; soda, ljd per lb ; coffee. Is 2i per lb.: straw, 60a per ton. J. vVaddell for broad—2}d per 21b. loaf; Q. Hulmo for nioat-23-lfid per ib.; J. Craig forflrewood— 9j per ton; W. and P. Wlnstone for coal—

The Runaway Pair from Mongonui.

A PATHETIC SCENE.

A MAN named Twitzer, a settler at Mon. gouui, was brought up to-day at the Police Court on a charge of intending to desert his wife and young family. Switgeris by birth a Canadian, very tall and gaunt in appear ance, and alleges that he isj rather deaf. Since he has been in the district of- Mongonui he has made the acquaintance of a respectable family, and, strange to say, a daughter of bis neighbour- an exceedingly pretty girl of twenty—became so infatuated with the tall backwoodsman, that she con sented to elope with him. They made their escape, and, as was coniec turcd, to Auckland. Information was given to the local police, and a telegram sent forthwith to Mr Superintendent Thom son with a description of the persons. The police were at ence on the alert, ami Detective Brennan, who resides near the OIJ House at Home, corner of Hobson street, becomiug aware that a couple answeriog the description had taken a room at the hotel, made inquiries and subse quently confronted the guilty pair, and the young girl, blushing crimson, confessed that she had left her home with dear- Twitzer, whoso kinduess to her had completely won her heart. Detective Brennan said duty was imperative, and he must make Twitzer his prisoner, and report her case at the proper quarter. On hearing this the girl appealed to thcsynipjithiesof Detective Bren nan in piercing heart-breakingaccents,solicit ing him to spare her gentle Twitzer, as she had joined her fortune -with his, and would go with him, if necessary, to the utmost bounds of the earth. The detective could not heed her cries in the stern face of ofliciul duty, and told her so. On hearing, this she literally screamed and threw her arms around Twitzer's neck. The scene, according to the Detective, was of _ the most pathetic nature, ond he felt inclined to break down. Duty, however, compelled him to action, and he arrested Twitzer on the charge. The man will be sent back to Mongonui. Wo learn that- Mr Superin tendent Thomson will have the girl pro perly cared for until Monday next, when she will be sent to the home of her parents by the lona.

Late Cablerams.

MELBOURNE, Wednesday.

THE SUEZ MAIL,

The P. and O. Co.'s steamship Cathay, with the inward Suez mail, dated London, November 19, arrived here last night from Galle.

GREEK FRONTIER QUESTION.

CONSTANTINOPLE, December 28,

It has transpired that the Porte intends to make a proposal to the Powers that another Conforouca should be held to settle the Turko-Greek frontier question, instead of the proposed arbitration for the game pur- PO6P« ________^.

Scintillations.

"Bo brief; fcr vis yr tn words as with sun beams: the mare they are condensed, the deeper they burn."—Southey.

Tho Mayor of Adelaide distributed 400 5s tickets among the poor at Christmas. Fred. Archer, the famous English jockey, is worth £50,000.

Classes for technical instruction are to be formed at the Newcastlo School of Arts.

Trickett's first question when he comes back—" Where are my friends ?"

Large numbers of New Zealand workmen are arriving at Newcastle by every steamer. "December 15, at her residence, Shark Island, Mrs K. C. Laycock, of a son."

Mr lvess' paper, " The Bulletin," will not bo published till February or March. The penny beer duty in Victoria is ex pected next year to realise £100,000. Tho Wesleyan Chapel at Featberston has been completely destroyed by lire.

A French warship is at Cooktown, en routo to New Guinea to punish the mur derers of French naturalists.

Wilkinson, charged with murder at Wagca-Wagga, has been recognised as an old criminal named Burt.

Mr K. F. Sandes and Mr C. Tappin have been nominated for the vacancy in the Borough Council of Hamilton.

The Princess Louise is said to be unable to sleep. The poor lady must go to church occasionally.

Mr Gcorgo Lanscll, the Sandhurst Quartz-King, has cleared £100,000 m four months out of the Garden Gully.

Father Ignatius, head of the Protestant mission in Hereford, writes to the papers, recording several apparitions in Wales.

Governor Gordon ought to feel flattered, A new restaurant in Albert-street has been named after him.

It is believed that the pure-bred cattle from the Bridgewater Park herd, purchased by Mr W. J. Hurst, will be added to Mr Kautham's stock, Waikato.

Mrs Lewis swooned through overwork iv the Bijou Theatre, Melbourne, while play ing Lady Teazle, aud was removed in a cab.

"Under tho Verandah," in Melbourne, is almost a thing of the past. Stock-brokers, book-makers, and others must "move on." The verandah is ruined. Poor /Egles !' The Commissioner of Customs, Mel bourne', has given the firm detected defraud ing the revenue the alternative of paying the fine or submitting to confiscation of goods worth £12,000.

The West Hamilton Promenade conceit in Mr Gwyune's gardens was a great success on Monday night. The sports at East Hamilton, in front of the lloyal Hotel, dur ing the day were fairly attended.

The case of Samuel De Young, an InsoN vent Adelaide metchsnt, is said to be the grossest that has ever come under the notice of the Commissioner. He is called upon to disgorge tho money he has secreted.

The Colonial Court of appeal will be an alternative one, so that the appellant will have the option of carrying his cause to a Final Court in the colony, or to a Final Court in England.

MrJ. N. Perrier, editor of the "Central Australian," Bourke, aud formerly of the " Sydney Daily Telegraph," wae, on Dec. 20, married at St. Peter's, Wooloomooloo, to Miss M. A. Thornton, of Summer Hill.

Young lawyers in Hobart Town keep the gas burning in their offices all the evening. It looks well, and quite warrants the ex pense. They needn't stay in the offices, but can look after the midnight " floyle " else where.

The " Sydney Bulletin "' says that Arch bishop Vaughan is "a demon" with the glove 3, and tnat by way of exercise ho matutinally dons the mittens with his coachman.

Andy Lynch was addressing the free and independent electors of Carcoar recently, and there was some interruption. Says Andy, "Now, giotlemin, shuro I know there's a lot of yez has opinions quite per verse to moine, bud fwhat of that ? Sbure it's plain to be seen that ye are bound one way, and I'm bound the other, bud aren't we all stroivin' to reach the same gaol!

Theatrical Items.

AT the "genteel comedy evening" given on Separation Night by Morton Tavares and wife, assisted by Brisbane amateurs, the audience was good in quality but not in quantity.

Mr and Mrs J. C. Williamson fishing at New Norfolk, Tasmania, fora fortnight. They opened in " Struck Oil" on December 27.

Mdlle. Charbonnet, the prematurely young pianiste, is a constant visitor at Go vernment House, Melbourne.

Frank and Rosa Towers wore at Cape Town in November, and hope to reach Melbourne in March.

At latest dates George Rignold was play ing Henry V., at Bristol, with in all respects excellent results.

Thompson's Mirror of the Zulu War was shown for five nights iv Goulburn to good houses. Tho Massive Chief proceeds to Newcastle for a tortuijjht. The Victoria Loftus Troupe are playing to good houses in Cooktown. They are the first compauy that have gone on to Cook town from the South for many months. Martiu Simonsen has been iv Hobart Towu with his opera company, doiuc good business, though the attempt at a subscrip tion was almost a failure. The wind-up was a brilliant triumph. The three daughters were a great success.

At Melbourne Theatre Koyal Mr Hoskins selected The Hunchbach for his benefit. Louisa Pomeroy appeared as Julia. The lady tenders Mr Hoskins a grand testi monial.

Cole's advance agent passed Tasmania on the 14th inst, in the Arawata. The show proceeds to Adelaide, thence to Melbourne, Sydney and 'Frisco. They do not play in Tasmania, as they do not thiuk they could pay expenses." Alice Johns and Harry Simmons fled from Tasmania. "Where are they?" ask lots of their admirers across the Straits. They left their scene-painter and a super numerary in gaol for attempting an un authorised entrance into tho hall, ■whero ome properties, seized for rent, had been

Suicide at Pokeno.

(DV TELEGRAPH, OWN CO-RESPONDENT.)

POKENO, this day. A MAN named Thomas Eaves banged him self last night at the Bombay settlement. The cause of the rash act is not yet known.

Suicide on the Rotorua.

FUItTHEK PARTICULAR?.

A teleoram from Russell iv our last evening's issue contained the intelligence that one of the passengers by the Rotorua committed suicide on the passage across. The steamer arrived this morning, and we are therefore placed iv possession of fuller particulars regarding the tragic occurrence. The name of deceased was the Hon. H. R. Boor, and he is said to have been a member of the Queensland Parliament. He booked at Sydney, and it is believed that he intended .to make a tour of this colony. After leaving poi t, the weather was rough, and deceased was observed to be sea-sick. On Christmas night he was on deck, and subsequently he went into his cabin. He had been there only a short time when the report of a gun was heard. Several persons proceeded to the room, and they found him lying there with his face bleeding. An examination showed that he had shot himself in the neck, and the windpipe was torn by the shot. The poor man must have died immediately after the occurrence. Ihe guv used was a double • barrelled one, and it was loaded with heavy duck shot. The weather being very warm, it was deemed advisable to bury the body as i-ocm as possible, and it was therefore con signed to the deep on the following day (Sunday). The burial ceremony was per formed by Revs. R. .Burrows and D. Ross.

Sporting.

THAMES RACES.-SECOND DAY.

(BY TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

GRAH AMSTOWN, Tuesday. The races to-day were well attended, but the showers of rain which fell after. 2 o'clock slightly marred the success of the subsequent events. On the whole the meeting was one of the best ever held here. The following were tlic results :—

Railway Stakes Handicap, 15 soys. Distance, J mile.—Sunbeam, 1; Ratcatcher, 2; Flora bolted off the course. Thames Jockey Club Handicap, 40 soys. Distance, 1J mile.—Golden Crown, 1; Ratcatcher, 2 ; Akeake, scratched.' This event was well contested.

Stebplichass Handicap, 40 toy*. Distance about 3 miles, over fair hunting country.—Misfortune won easily, Venus, Akeake, and Atalanta noi; doing the whole distance.

local Race Handicap, 20 bovh. Distance, 1J mile. For all horses the bona fide property of any person (three months prior to the day of race) residing in this district, Coromandel County, Kati kati, and Thames Valley.—Matlock, 1; Eclipse, 2.

COROMANDEL RACES.-BOXING DAY.

The day being line, a large number of people visited the races, amongst whom were a goodly number of visitors from Mer cury .Bay, Manaia, &c.; audja good many natives also visited the course, the races being held in one of Mr Lynch's paddocks. Ihe three principal flat races of the day were won by a horse named Bismarck, owned by a native from Manaia named Kucbin. The Hurdle Race was won by Sir George Grey, and the Pony Race by Deception, both the property of Doctor Hovell. The most of the horses engaged for the Coromandel races are entered to run at Mercury Bay, so that a good day's sport may be anticipated when the Mercury Bay races come off.

RUSSELL, this day. DOSING RACE HORSES.

The Waimate races take place to-morrow. Mr Goffe's race horses have been dosed. A reward of £10 is offered.

SALE OF FOUL PLAY.

Foul Play, tho winner of the Auckland Cup, was sold last night, with all his en gagements, for the sum of £650, by Mr H. P. Lance, the owner. Mr Fred Mat thews was the ostensible purchaser, but it is understood that he acted merely as agent in the transaction. Until the real name of the bona fide owner has been disclosed, and the public have been assured that the horse will be rnn for all his engagements, no doubt a good deal of caution will be exercised in layiug money on him.

At Tattersall's Club last evening the betting fraternity were engaged in settling over the Boxing Day races. There was some little betting on the Racing Club Handicap, and the following may be taken as the preliminary state of tho market on this event:—Foul Play, 2 to 1; Yatapa, 100 to 14; Ariel, 100 to 12 ; and Vampire, 100 to 10. Betting on other events was merely tentative.

The settling at Tattersall'a appears to have been generally satisfactory-^ The book makers are said to have had the worst of it, chiefly thiough tho winning of Harry Mount in the Hurdle Kace, against which Ions; odds had been taken.

Grand Flaneur is still first favourite for the Champion Face to come off in Mel bourne on New Year's Day. It looks a cer tainty for him on paper, but there are many who fancy Progress' chances, though the easy way in which Grand Flaneur disposed of him in the Derby and Cup ought to be a convinccr.

THEATRE ROYAL.—" OUR FRIENDS."

The comedy of " Our Frieuds" was per formed for the second time last night in the Theatre Royal to a very eood house, who manifested a thorough appreciation of the more striki?:ig scenes of this pleasant comedy. In our last issue we gave a succinct sketch of the plot, which is well wrought out, al though here and there conversations were too much lengthened, aud calculated to induce weariness in an audience. Some of the parts were full of life, and afforded scope for really good acting. The love passage betweeu Cecile (Miss Alice Lingard) and Maurice (Mr Craig) was ao admirable scene, and merited the applause which followed. The " Friends" is founded on human ex perience, and contains many points of interest, and will be repeated this evening.

HARBOUR BOARD.

The fortnightly meeting of the Harbour Board was held yesterday afternoon, there being present Measra McKcnzie (chairman), Daldy, T. Morrin, Stone, Compton, and Thompson.

New Member —A letter was received from the Town Clerk of Parnell, notifying the election of the Mayor (J. F. Clarke) to represent the Borough Council at the Har bour Board.

Works Committee.—The repoit of this committee recommended :-(l) That Messrs It. O. Clark and Sons be informed (hat the Board are not the owners of the foreshore at Henderson's Creek, and, therefore, Ii aye not the power to leaso it; (2) that the Board decline Mr J. Bennett's application for the lease of a site for a coal shed ; (3) that the City Council be informed that the Boatd has no intention of reclaiming Freeman's Bay at present, but wish to co-operate with the City Council in the laying out of drains and roads ; (4) that ihe report of the engi neer on totara timber be forwarded to the Melbourne Harbour Trust Committee ; (5) that Mr Purcell's relinquishment of his con tract be accepted, and that the request to rs fund deposit be not complied with.—The report was adopted.

Finance Committee -This Committee recommended — " That one-half lauding wharfage be remitted on goods from Mr Lamb's mill if transhipment rate has already been paid on such goods."—The report was adopted. Wharf Cleaning. —The Chairman moved, "That tenders be called for cleaning and sweeping wharves." The motion was seconded by Mr Compton and carried.

Dredging.—MrCompton moved, "That all sums expended on account of dredging channel to dock be charged to dock ac count."—Carried.

Asphalt.—A report by the engineer recommended that a space of 300 feet oa the Queen-street Wharf should be covered with asphalt, mevious experiments having proved highly satisfactoiy. The estimated cost is £460. The report was referred to the Works Committee.

This was all the business.

A Grand Handball Match will be played at the Ball Alley, Gleeson's Hotel, at 930 on Saturday morning, between P. Hogan and T. O Copnor, and M.JMurpby and Mc3woeney, for

CABLEGRAMS.

EUROPEAN.

[BiKUTKB'S TKLKOEAMSJ

THE HOMK RULERS. LONDON, December 28 Mr Parnell hai been elected chairm.' of the Home Rulers in Ireland. taairßlai

GREEK FRONTIER QUESTION. Further diplomatic communications hL' been received, whereiu.it is stated tl ! Greece insists upon the frontier line w laid down at Berlin. toeing

LONDON, December,li) The state of affairs in Ireland ii Li improved. The expedition to aidßovcX was received with inteusc hostile demonstr tion. He would no doubt hare be?1 attacked but for the strong force of infant? cavalry, and police by which they J?• protected. , , ( y WBt9 No less than 7000 .men are etationd between Claremorris, Ballinrobe, andLouoh

LONDON, December 23, Affairs in South Africa are causing miirll uneasiness and have been further comnr cated by the action of the Boers, who as! sembled POOO strong and, marched into Heildeberg,,a town in the province of Swpll enbourg, and have established a reDnblil without having resorted to violence., Pom munication via Praetorla pass;, the p'rincinnl route between the Basuto and Cape br vinces, has |been .stopped,, and it i s {J t ''l that the pass has la lieu into the hands of tl Basutos. . i ; , c The city of Rangoon, iv British Burnish' which was almost entirely, destroyed by fir in 1850, ha" again been the scqne or. a ™ llagratioD. Fully half the city has boen » duced to ashes, and CO, 000 people rendered homeless, tt

AUSTRALIAN.

DESTRUCTIVE FIRE IN BRISBANE BRISBANE, Wednesday. ' A destructive fire occurred last night' at the wharves at Petries Right on the Bris bane Kiver. The fire broke out at midnichi and raged for somo time, doingconsideiaMn damage to property, though the destruction was not so great as was at first u &k a -I would be. The actual extent of the loss « not yet known. "

THE INSURANCES.

The Insurances comprise £20G0 in th« South British, halt of which is reinsured with the National and Colonial of Npw Zealand, also £800 in the Standard anS £300 in the National. ' ana

INTER-COLONIAL CRICKET MATCH MELBOURNE, December 28. '

In the intercolonial cricket match be. tween Victoria and New South Wales the latter in their first innings scored 79 'runs, in their second innings eight wickets hava been lost for 247 runs. Gregory made 58

The Governor Corresponds with Te Whiti.

|BY TELEGBAPH, OWN COKRESPOHDEKT.)

WELLINGTON, this day. It has transpired that Captain Knolly*, A.D.C., has conveyed to Parihaka aletter written by the Governor to Te Whitiat the request and by the advice of Ministers. Hone Pibatna accompanied him as bearer of the Vice-regai letter, and Hursthouse an interpreter, ti either the purport of the letter nor the result is yet known.' * Mr Dick returned to-day. Mr Hall comes t>n the sixth, and Messrs Bryce and Oliver next week.

The "Cup" Catastrophe.

INQUEST ON NOLAN.

A coroneb's enquiry into the circumstances

under which the jockey John Nolan met

with his death at the race-course on Mon day last was held yesterday afternoon at

the Ellertilio Hotel, Mr Jas, Bucklaud being foreman of the jury. . r ,,,

Dr Hooper was the first vituesg ex. amined. He deposed that shortly after i'our o'clock on Monday he was requested to see two jockeys who had just fallen with their horses in the race for the Cup. He went to the place indicated, aud found the deceased lying under a post-and-ra.il fence, quite dead. There was a profuse effusion of blood from both ears and nose, while the pupils of the eyes were widely dilated, thus indicating great compression of the brain. No other injuries were observable. The face was covered with blood and bespattered-with dirt. Witness was a spectator of the Cup Race, and caw two of the horses fall and then rise and gallop away riderless. Deceased was

one of tne two rider*. Witness was nit near enough to see exactly how the accident was brought about, lhat patt of the course on which it happened was not rocky; it was in admirable condition for racing. His opinion was that tho deceased ;was ~ killed by the fracture of the base of the skull, causing great effusion of blood on the bruin, so that death must have been almost instantaneous.

Sergeant Fleming deposed that he was on the racecourse on Monday afternoon while the Cup racn was being run. J.uat when the race had finished (4 o'clock) to was informed that an accident had occurred at the fur her end of the course. Be proceeded thither with all speed, and as he went he noticed a horse galloping away without ft rider. He found a man lying upon the ground with Drs, Goldsbro1, Hooper, and Tennanfc, bending over him, and a large croml hemming them in. The man was pronounced dead, aud he, therefore, had the body removed to the Ellerslie lfotel, where he searched the clothing. £47 in bank notes was fouud iv a small pocket in the riding pants. There was also a set.of shirt studs, besides a small diamond nag, which was worn on the finger. Mr Yal« lance and Mr Walters subsequently handed over to him deceased's clothing, which con tained a sum of 17s lid. Deceased's other effects were a coat, a watch, and a saddle, ' Prederiok Divid Carrington, a jockty employed by Mr Horsfall, deposed that on Monday he rode King Quail iv the Cup rare. The start took place at foorVclock, and for distance his horse was galloping immediately behind Libeller, which W«s being ridden by the deceased. Suddenly Libeller went down and witness's horse fell over him. Mo other hones were very near at the time, and Libeller's sudden fall was therefore quite unaccountable. He could not by any possibility have avoided the fall of his own horse, for the suddenness of the accident and the close proximity of tho horses admitted no room for action.. .He had but time to notice Libeller's niianap when Kin« Quail was upon him. The horses did not collide or cannon. They did not strike each other at all until they fell. Nolan was in front|of witness all the time, and certainly did not try to cross him. 'I he fall stunned witness, and he did not recover consciousness until 10 o'clock at night, when he found himself in Mr Bowman's house. He bad been acquainted with tho deceased for the past two years, and knew him to be a good rider.

To Jurors: I have never told anyone that the accident was caused by foul riding on Nolan's part, or that he had cannoned against me. The simple* cause was (hat Libeller fell and I and my horse fell over him. I was half a length behind the de ceased, and he did not try to cross my path, v^e were on good terms, and I had ridden against him before. William Craft, a groom in the employ of the Auckland Stud Company, and rider of Ariel in the race for the Cup, said that ho saw Libeller and King Quail (which were in advance of him at the time) fall,|but was unable to state which one fell first. He rode over both. He had known deceased for the past 15 months. Believed him to be a good rider, and knew that he was perfectly sober when the start was made. In his opinion the race was fairly ridden.

Kobeit Derritt, a jockey, and rider of Foul Play in the Cup race, deposed that after they had gone about a mile and three quarters, Libeller fell. His opinion was that he had galloped on to Yatapa and Maid of Honour, and roust have got en tangled in (heir heals,, King Quail falling over hip when he fell. Hn saw nothing unfair iv the carrying on of the race, and considered the occurrence purely acci dental.

Kobert H. Vallance, trainer and owner of race horses, iv whose employ deceased had been for the past three years, gave evidence as to his previous career, fie was a married man, belonging to Flemington, Victoria, and was about 30 years of age, and was a sober, steady man. The jury returned as a verdict, " That the deceased was accidentally killed by the stumbling of his horse, and that no blame was attributable to anyone."

Pi;of. Babo, of Friebnrg, has taken out a German patent for coating the mouth end of cigars with collodion, t>y simply dipping and drying, in order to prevent the leaf fromunravelling and softening with the moisture of the mouth. Cigars thus treated are affirmed to smoke morepleaeaiitlvatid^^^j

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAit. WEIsDESOAy. DECEMBER 29.



Wednesday.

tBCi

[BE:

29.

!d. I

! a 29.62 29.34 29.53 29.41 29.14 2945 29.39 29.34 29.39 29.90 29.00 29.05 29.92 29.00

« v c 70 61 66 G« 63 h2 02 32 59 64 Gl 55

I D OR B,0 B.C B.C «.O B.C B.C K. C. B. n.B B.

Station.

|

State of Sea, Bar, or Rivers.

Manukuu.... Thames Tauranga.... Napier Taranaki Wanganul.,. Wellington.. Nelson Qreymoutb.. Lyttelton.... Timaru Dam&ru Pt. Chalmere Bluff_

W. N.W. 3.W. N.W. N.W. s.w. N.W. a 3.W. 8.W. 8.W. S.W. W.

F.B F.B F.B V.B St. Bt F.B C. u F.B

mod. swell smooth slight r\vall yory rough

smooth smooth



Special Advertisements. Q A L T. 1000 BAGB W. &"\V. FIN"! I 1000 BAGS W. & W. COARSE OK H A M D AND TO ARRIVE PER 'LOCH URR,' from London. In lots to suit purchaser?, W. S. LAURIE, 7, Wyndham-street. pHRISTMAS AND NEW YE IK JTrksentOl Ladies' BLACK and COLORKO COSTUMES



adib3'BONNKT3 and HATS, in the latest Paris Styles LADIBS' SILK ASD CASHMERE MANTLES, CAPES AND VIBITES . LANGTREY HOODS Ladhb' KID and TAFFETTASILK GLOVES In Endless Variety . Ladies'SlLK, SATIN and TUSSORE PABASOLS. j CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS AND AND



NEW YEAR PRKSSNrs, NEW YffiAß PRESENT?, AT TyiLLIAM TDATTRAY'S drapery, mantle, and millinery establishment. ■ Mew Zealand House, ,66. queen-stbeet. auckland.



Special Advertisements. STRANGERS AND TRAVELLERS Visiting Auckland will find the LARGKST OUTFITTING STOCK INT THB COLON I To Solcot from at THE NJSW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. 1 housanda of Customers testify to tho QJni'EBIOR QUALITY & pHTTING Of the Garments mado by thorn. The Stook of SHIRTS, TIKS, HATS, and HOSIERY, la very le.rgo. and includes a CHOICE ASSORTMENT OF It ?J FOR THE HOLIDAYS. A special supply of PORTMANTKAUX BAGS, RUG 3, and all TravolliDg Rcqulaites for Tourists. AUCKLAND BRANCH: Queen-stroot (opposite Theatre Royal), And at Albort street, Thames. J. FITZ3IMON3. MANAOBR. QUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SALE WILL COMMENCE ON MONDAY, 20th INST. THE GOOD 3 WILL BK OFFERED AT r(OST TDItICE! FOR A FEW WEEKS ONLY 1 In Odder to Clear Heavy Stocks T {IQSGRAVIS & /^ 0., Importers pf DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, QUEEN STREET, AUCKLAND.



KB.—No Goods will be entered during the Sale. M. MUR C H IS MERCHANT TAILOR AND IMPORTER. FRESH ARRIVALS. English and Scotch Tweeds—7 cases by 'Loohnagar' Sehge Suitings in Blue and Black, of a New Make and Finish Something New in Bannockbnm Tweeds, which was awarded let prize at the Sydney Exhibition Saxony. Tweeds in Blue and Black, of superior quality and new design. Another Consignment to arrive by ' Fernglen.



Samples mailed to any address. Tho immense quantity ot Clothing we ship to the largo cities and towns in the colony is a sufflciontguarantee that tho QUALITY and MAKE of these Goods cannot bo equalled. Orders by mail will receive our best attention.



WANTED, four First-class Tailors, to whom constant employment wiU«bo given Ft the ton penny log. M. M U R C H I E, Opposite Arch. Clark & Son's, Siiortland Street. JVMAS TTOLIDAYS, 1880. WEff YBAR'3 jTOLIDAYS, 1881. TDEGATTA EXCURSIONS, 1881. A ustraw:: Qricketers' yisrr, 1881 WE are Prepared to SUPPLY YOU with the Most Suitable|and Fashionable Clothing Required for Holiday Gathering', Picnics, Water Excursions, Lawn Tennis and Garden Parties. GABLICK & CRANWELL.



SUNSH \DES, for Afternoou Use —G. SUNBHADffiS,forPlonicß,ls npwards-& SUNSH ADBS, for Carriage Uso -G.



■pOMPAUOUR Dresa Goods, New Pat. — G X SATffiKN, New Lot, just opened _& NOVELTIBS in Dress Goods con- stantly arriving — 0. /^iHlLDßKN'SPompadour Dresses, "Very X/ Cheap _G» CHILDREN'S 2-Button Kid Gloves — & CHILDREN'S Hostery-an Immense Variety — c. ATS, Ladies', Job Lino.la 3d worth 2a 6d- G. HATS and Bonnets Trimmed Cheap — & HaTS for Children from la npwards - C. G" 1 ARLICK & CRANWELL would remind T the Public that they have SACRIFICED a Credit Trade for the sake of establish ing the pO-OPKRATIVE pASH OYSTEM We Open no Nbw Accounts for Dra pery. We LOSE Customers who ask for Cbkdit ; all we ask in return is a Liberal Snpport by Cosh Buyers, to enable us to continue what is a Publlo Benefit Our Goods are very Carefully Bought, and Marked at a Very Small Percentage over Cost, and we must do a Lahoe Business to continue the System, and the Larger our "Turn Over" ,the ;more our Customers will Benefit by their Snpport. LAWN TENNIS APRONS RIDING GLOVES, Silk Glovea - & KID OLO VK8,1,2.3, i, 6, & 8 Bntton — V. FANCY BAQB and Boxes of Handkerchiefs for Presents GOLD and OHENILLtf Scarves and Collarettes — G. GOLD and SILVER Trimmings — & GOLD COLOURED Silk Fringes.&e.- O. SILKS, we have the Cheapest ITq" SILKS, Speoial Lines, .2* 93, la 3d, 4s 6d per yard — & SATINS and Fancy Goodß for Trim- mlng — C.



CRKTO.NNE3, on immense Assortment — g7 CRETONNES, bucked with Laoe, Curtain Pattern — & CRETONNES, New Styles, from 7d per yard c. A BTXCLKS of New Designs too numerous to JtX. mention in Hosiery, Underclothing, Millinery, Ladies' Nick Nacks, and Fancy Goods. ANKRUPT STOCK of Men's and Boys Clothing and Mercery. Now being SOLD at Robinson's Cost, and Manu facturers' Prices by GARI/lOK fc ORANWBLT.. VERY CHEAP TABLE DAMASKS, from la 6d per yard. A pURK HASH <JY3TEM. /P \ ALL DRAPERS' & CLOTHING / C. S. \ AT \ - /CO-OPERATIVE CASH V / PRICES, \/ AT THK QITY TTALL A RCADK, GARLICK & CRANWELL, Peopbibtobs.



W INKS & rr all, HAVE I REMOVED FROM SHORTLAND-STREET TO TEMPORARY PREMISES IN FOfeT STREET, OPPOSITE COCHRANE AND SON'S AUCTION . MABT, • AND WILL CONTINUE THBIB CHEAPSALE FOE A FEW WEEKS LONGER, TO CLEAK SURPLUS STOCK. THEY WILL EEMAIN IN FCRT-STREET DURINa THE RE-BUILDING OF THEIR WARE HOUSE IN SHOBTLAND-STKEET."



*r si free Gifts !-Tho Proprietors of Wolfe's Aromatic Scbhdam Schnapps, to Induce tho destruction and prevent the im proper uso of their wrappers and labels, nnd thus farther proteot the Publio against fraul and deception, have enclosed in the wrappers, or under the label on the quart boUlcS, Since Ist October. 1878, andjeontinuo to oncloao ist every day's packing TKuotanouT thr year, T H X B a SI ORDERS, which aro drawn upon the undersigned, and which will bo cashed by them on presentation. To sccuro thoso Gifts, f'e Pub'io must be careful to ask for, and accopt nothing but, tho GIINUINEUnOLPUO WOI.FIS'S SOHNAITS, With onr name upon tho top label, M. Moss & Co., Wynyard Lane, Sydney.