SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

<h7{_»H WATETiI f^* Evening, 10 41 ituitt WAi_Kj To-morrow Morning 12.6 EUN BET.-Thlfl Evening, 7.9 SIN UlSl_.-To-Mo.-row Morning, 5.22 MOON'S AGE.-Last Quarter, Ith, 3.17 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

SATURDAY EVENING.

Hero, S.S., Logan, from Sydney and Melbourne. YESTERDAY. Southern Cross, s.s., Helander, from South. Penguin, s.s.. Malcolm, from Russell. Anne Milbank, p.s., Anderson, from Whangarei, TO-DAY- Rotomahana, b.s., Underwood, from Melbourne.

DEPARTURES.

SATURDAY EVENING.

Sovereign of the Seas, cutter, Wilson, for Noumea. TO-DAY. Penguin, s.s., Malcolm, for the South.

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

Melbourne via South—Arawata, Thursday ILiondon-Fernglen, loading Tauranga— Glanelg, Friday For New Plymouth and Southern Ports — Wellington, Wednesday For Russell—lona, Monday; Wanaka, Friday For Tauranga and Southern Ports — Wanaka, Monday Whangarel—Argyle, Tuesdays and Fridays; Anno Milbank, Mondays and Thursdays. VESSELS EXPECTED. Bismarck, H.1.G.M.5., from Samoa City of Sydney, from Sydney, February 3rd Earl Granville, ship, from J/Ondon; sailed No vember 29 Agate, barque, from New York; sailed Septem ber 23rd British Empire, ship, from London; sailed Bth November Elinor Vernon, barque, from New York ; sailed 10th November Stracathro, ship, from London; sailed Nov. 27 Loch Urr, barque (W.Q.L.K.), from London; sailed October 23rd Trevelyan, ahip (V.N.H.S.), from London; loading City of Quebec, barque, from London. Elmiranda, barque, from New York Mercia, barque, from London, loading Ada (!. Owen, brigantine, from Dunedin. Camille, brig, from New York Agnes Donald, schooner, from Levuka Energy, schooner, from Levuka Fiery Cross, schooner, from Oamaru Syren, brig, from Sydney; loading Tubal Cain, schooner, from Levuka WRiwera,, schooner, from Austral Islands Stag, barque, from Adelaide Ovalau, schooner, from Samoa Myrtle, brigantine, from Tonga Griffin, schooner, from New Caledonia Kthel, brigantine, from Uunedin Pirate, schooner, from Tahiti Coronet, schooner, from MarshalllGroup Belle Brandon, schooner from Line Islands Island Lily, brigantine, from Chatham Islands Active, brigantine, from Sydney

IMPORTS.

Per Hero: from Sydney—9oo mats and 28 gun nies sugar, 120 cases fruit, 100 bags bonedust, 15 cases pines, 4 cases baoon, 6 cheeses, 1 bale paper, 1 case pictures, 1 case porcelain, 2 cases woollens, 1 case drapery, 15 bags onions, 23 cases Fundrles. From Melbourne — 1,744 packages sugar, 130 packages tea, 400 bags rice, 31 }-boxes tobacco, 2UO bags bonedust, 2 Doxes stationery, 110 cases castor oil, 20 cases turps 3 caße cigarss 7 packages sewing machines, 129 cases and 10 hhds. brandy, 4 J-ca6ks rum, - sacks seeds, G caso_ wine, 2 cases washing powder, 2 cases sardines, 21 gas stoves, 1 boiler, I case tartario acid, 5 horses, 6 bullock yokes. 2 parcels bows, 1 case stone. 1 case shears, 19 cases and pack ages general merchandise. Per Southern Cross, from Southern Ports-250 sacks malt, 12 casks oil, 5 cases meat, 55 hides, 2 cases, 1 safe, and 3 tons sundries.

EXPORTS.

Per Sovereign of th 6 Seas, for Nonmoa-30 tons and 90 boxes potatoes, 75 boxes onions, 29 cases cheese, 18 cases buttsr, 23 kegs salt beef, 40 boxesßOap.

IMPORTS.

Per Rotomahana—From Melbourne: 3parcels, 3 packages. From Dunedin: 1 case cigars, 70 cases and packages. From Lyttelion: 30 sacks malt, 3 parcels. From Wellington: 20 cases meats-, 1 caso paints, 3 cases, 4 parcels. From Oisborno: 30 sacks grass seed, 14 cases fruit, 1 parcel. Inward 3 Coasewise.—Penguin from Russell with 300 tons coal, end 01 sacks kauri gum; Lake St. Clair from Orewa. with 8,300 feet Bhip planking, and 8,000 feet bulk timber; Lee from < umo, with 40 tons firewood: Zillah from Thames, with 20.000 feet timber and 4 tons machinery. Outway._B Coastwise—Lee from Cume; Zillah for Thames with 12 head of cattle and 120 Bheep. The fine tew brigantine Borealis is advertised to leave for Levuka, Fiji, on Wednesday next, carrying cargo and passengers. A Bchooner inside Tiritiri was signalled when wo went to press. Tho barque Glimpse, after undergoing exten sive repairs, was taken out of the graving dock to-day. The barque Inglowood hauled away from the Quoan-Btreet wharf on Saturday afternoon. She cleared at the Customs to-day for Lyttelton, whore she is to load for London. The b.s. Argyle will arrive to-night from Whangarei and Mangapai. She leaves again for tho same ports to-morrow afternoon. The s.s. Penguin arrived from Russell yester day morning with the following passengers:— Misses Stephenson, Joyce, Hutton, jNorris, Williams, Brown, Judge Munro, Messrs Verity, Honi Reti, Nelson, Webb, Davis, Triphook, and seven in the steerage. The schooner Torea arrived at Lyttelton from Kaipara on Saturday last with a cargo of timber. The P.M. b.s. City of Sydney may be expected from Sydney early to-morrow morning. She leaves to-morrow afternoon for Honolulu and Ban Francisco with tho outward English and American mails. Tho cutter Sovereign of the Seas sailed for Noumea, New Caledonia, on Saturday evening with a cargo of potatoes and general stores. The brigantine Helena, 126 tons register, is open for freight or charter. Application should be made to Mr L. W. Eaton, Uueen-street. Tho brigantine Linda Weber left Hauraki -Sawmills, Thames, for Dunedin on Saturday with 80,000 feet white pine timber. Tho barque Loongana has almost completed the discharge of her inward cargo. She is advertised to leave for Hobart Town direct on Thursday next. The Auckland three-masted schooner Fairlie left Lyttelton for Newcastle on Saturday last. The s.s. lona, which arrived from Russoll and Northern ports on Saturday evooing, brought 229 sacks gum, 4 packages hides, and a number of passengers; She returns to the same porta to-night. The P.M. s.s. City of New York, with tho English malls of Ist January, left San Francisco for Auckland on the 19th Instant, and is due hero on Tuesday, 10th. The Zealandia, with tho January Colonial mails for England, reached San Francisco on the 29th ult. The Auckland Steamship Company's s.b, Southern Cross arrived from Southern ports yesterday morning. She left Lyttelton on the 26th, Wellington on tho 28th, Napier on the 30th, ana Glsborne on Saturday, arriving as above. Passengers :—Dr Graham, Mr and Mrs Graham, Misses Graham (1), and Master Graham, Messrs Thompson, Lewis, Lahiff, Rickards, Hansom, Christie, and three In the steerage. The following passengers left per Penguin for tho South this afternoon:—For Tauranga— Messrs W Swanson, Lomond, Maine, Horei Peti, Judge Fenton, Mr Gordon, Capt. Symonds, H. Moore, T. H. Barstow, Mr Greenbull. For Giaborne—S.Steele. For Napier—Mrs Battiam, Mrs and Miss Cooper, Mr Studholme,. For Wellington—Misß A. Gilbert. For Lyttelton— Miss Duder, Mr land Mrs 801 l and family 18), Mr Tulloch, Mr Mease, Mr J. Smith, Mr und Mrs Bell, Mr Freerson. For Dunedin— Messrs Jones, Dacre, Phillipps, Mis Gooseman, For Picton-Mr W. F. Hill. Tho s.s. Hero arrived from Sydney and Mel bourne shortly after we went to press on Satur day- She made a very lengthy passage—seven days—caused chiefly by rough weather on the passage across. From the report furnished by Mr Lennard, purser, wo learn that tho steamer cleared Sydney Heads at 3 p.m. on the 24th instant, and passed Three Kings at 1 a.m. on the .JOtli. Strong southo ly and south easterly gales were experienced throughout the passaKe:— Passengers :—Saloon : Mr and Mrs A. Hosking and 2 children, Mr and Mrs T. L White and 3 children, Mr and Mrs Cross, Rev. T. and Mrs Davies. Mesdames Broughton, Wallau, Misses Ada Stephenson, Hunter, Messrs R. and J. Grice, F. Symons, Rose Selatd, R. H. Parker, Carey, Bladgon, and 22 adults in the steerage.

PASSENGERS BY CITY OF SYDNEY.

The following passengers have booked per City of Sydney, which leaves for San Francisco, vlaHonululu, to-mori ow :—The Hon. Spencer G. Li ttelton, Lloyd Davies, G. W. Bell, wife. Misses Bell (2) and 1 child, Mr and Mrs Winter, G. W. Griffin (U._. Consel for Christchurch) and 2 children, Mrs J. Pitta-, Miss Pittar, Mrs Patchcn, General J. J. Bartlett, T. A. Lord, F. Zourdel, and 10 in tho steerage.

ARRIVAL OF THE ROTOMAHANA.

Tho U.S.S. Company's s.H. Kotomahana, 1,727 tons, G. Undeiwood, from Melbourne, via Hoburt Town and Southern ports, arrived alouiftido tho Queoa-Btreet Wharf at 9 this morning. Shelt.fi; Sandridee Pier, Melbourne, at 5.30 p.m. ou the 20th ultimo, cleared Port Vhillip Heads at 7.2a p.m., and arrived at llobart Town at 7 a.m. on the 22nd; left at 3 p.m. same day, and after icxperiencing fresh __..__.. winds, with head sea and thick fog across, entered Milford Sound at 1 p.m. on the 25th; lay-to in tho Sound until 7 p m., then proceeded on voyage, arriving at J-Slutl. at 12.10 p.m. on tho 28th: ielt at 7.20 p.m. same day; arrived at Port Chalmers at 5.30 a.m. on the 27th; sailed at 4.30 p.m. on tho 28th; arrived at Lyttelton at 8.40 a.m. on tho 29th, and left at 6.30 p.m. same day; arrived at Wellington at 9 a.m. on tho 30th; left at 3.30 p.m. same day; arrived off Napier at 9 a.m. on the 3lBt: loft at 10 p.m. same night: arrived at Poverty Bay at 8 a.m., and left at 10 p.m., on the Ist, arrivinir in port as above. Fine weather, with light variable winds, wore expe rienced along the Coast. Passengers—Mr and Mrs G. M. Hell and 3 children, Mr and Mrs Keccombo, Mr and Mrs Dawson, Mr and Mrs Benjamin; Mesdamcs Hcorous, Warner, Prea craft, Barnard and son, Craig; Misses Dewar, Montague, Coates, Pago; Hon. Spenco, G. Lyttelton, Captain Lamond, Captain Andrew, Key. H. F. Long; Messrs N. Maine. C. J. Bryant, 11. Moore. Sydney—H. Lamond, Byme, Ureonhlll, I. Lines, He!got_r_on, Holder, Coutts, Keid, Wood, Mohi Tawiil, J. Hill, L. Davis, Hidings, Pope, Batkin, 11. iteynoldi., J. O'Keiley, Cornford, Mathieson, Ualdy, and 43 stoorago. The Kotomahana will leave for Sydney, via Ru.sell, to-morrow afternoon.

VESSELS ON THE COAST.

Tho following t legram was posted outside the Harbour J_iOi.nl ollico to-day :— "Russell, Monday, 9.30 a.m. Large ship and bareuo passing Sonth 5.30 am. to-day. Wind, southerly, and light." The ship will probably prove to bo tho British Kinpire, now 8S d«ys mil, from London, and too baiquo the Loch Urr, 102 days from London. •

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

DI-FAItTUKKS. Kangatira, as., Harvey, for the Fouth Lalla Rookh, p.s,, Campbell, for Raglan I The s.B. Rowena will leave for Hokianga at 3 | p.m. to-morrow. It c.Tll£ sB, Wellington will arrive from the H South to-morrow, with the late portion of the B outward English mails. ■ Tho s.B. Rangatira Bailecl South on Saturday Hfuwruoon.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE. AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under :— This Day. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 4 p.m. For Russell, Rawakawa, Wangaroa, and Mon gonul, per Jona, at I p.m. For Wangarei Heads, and Wangarel, per Annie Milbank, at 1 p.m. For Tauranga and Opotiki.per Glenelg.afc 4 p.m. For Australian Colonies, per Hero, at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Tuesday, 3rd Instant, For Waiwera, Kawau, Omaha, and Matakana, per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Hokiangs, per Rowena. at 1 p.m. Per s.b. City of Sydney as follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United States of America. Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, Japan, and China, including Hongkong, at 1 pan. 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 the time of sailing. For Ruasell, Kawakawa, and Australian Colonies, per Botomahana, at 3 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, per Argyle, at 4 p.m For Waipu and Mangawai, per Kina, at 5 p.m. Wednesday, 4th February. Per s.s, Wellington as follows :— For India, China, Japan, Medlteranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 8 am. For Taranakl, Southern Provinces Aus tralian Colonies, and United Kingdom, via Suez and Southampton, (for letters specially so addressed), at 8 a.m. For United Kingdom.; via Brindisi, and late letters for Southern Provinces, at 8.15 a.m. For newspapers at 8 a.m. For money orders, and registered letters the previous evening at 4 o'clock. For Oisborno, Napier, Wellington, and Lyttel ton, per Southern Cross, nt 4 p.m. For Friendly Islands, per Caledonia, at 3 p.m. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster.

" Tholast act of the play, second childhood leads the way," and it Is in this senile condition that the muscles become relaxed, the nerves sensitive and delicately strung, the functions weak, and the whole organism wearied and worn away with the fretting, the strifes, the activities of life, Then is it tbat the framo needs a grateful cordial, a gentle stimulant, a mild res torative, and then is it that like the stream the prophet's wand evoked, Udolpho Wolfe's Schie dam Aromatic Schnapps (lows out in balmy currents. ' ;

BIRTHS.

ROBERTS.—On February 1, the wife of A. ■Roberts, Montague-street, Newton, of a daughter. TIMMINS.—On January 31, at her residence, Nsraruawahia, the wife of Mr Timmina of a son.

MARRIAGES.

DOBBIE-GII_FILL.AN.-On January 31, at St Mary's Church, Parnell. by the Right Rev the Bishop of Auckland. Horbert Boucher, son of the late Major Herbert Dobbio. M.N.1., to Charlotte Anderson, eldest daughter of Honry Gilflllan, of Auckland. SUTHERLA.ND-McKKNZIE.-On January 8, at the residence of the bride's father, by the Rev D. Bruce, Anguß Sutherland to Margarot McKonzie, daughter of Captain Kenneth Mc- K.nzie. Both of Auckland. — American papers please copy.

DEATHS.

COT TINGHAM. -On January 31, at the Thames, Rosina Elizabeth, only child of Eliza beth and |W. Cottingham, jun.; aged Aye months. PERKINS.—At her parent's residenoe, Oxford street, Sydney, Mamie Louisa, eldest daughter of Edward and Ada Perkini; agod 3 years and 8 months,

TOWN EDITION PUBLISHED AT 4.30. The Evening Star: WITH WHICH ARE INCORPORATED The Evening News, The Morning News, and The Echo.

MONDAY. FEBRUARY 2, 1830.

For the cans, that lacks _-«_i_a-.cs. For the wrong tha needs resistance, For the future in tha distance, And the rood that we can do.

In order to make room for the full budget of English news via Suez, and Australian intelligence, per s.s. c Hero,' we are compelled to hold over leading matter and condense local reports.

Mr W. Hurst, M.H.R., by advertisement in another column, replies to the requisition presented to him by the deputation on Saturday. He says that it has always been his intention to meet the electors prior to the next session of Parliament, and he will shortly intimate the time when ho proposes doing so. We are glad to learn that the difference between Mr Bailey, the owner of the Toy, and Mr Stodart, the umpire, relative to the lattcr'a decision re the false start on Regatta Day, was not so serious as represented. Though Mr Bailey was greatly annoyed at being compelled to sail the race over again, we are assured that he did Dot make use of any language that was unbecoming. After the Toy's victory on Saturday Mr Bailey and Mr Stodard shook hands very cordially, and the only unpleasantness that had arisen in connection with perhaps the most success ful regatta ever held in Auckland, was ended to the entire satisfaction of both principals and in general harmony. We heartily add our congratulation!., and hope that all who were engaged in the various contests this year, whether as winners or losers, will " live to fight another day." Any remarks in our report of Saturday that press with undue harshness on Mr Bailey, we have much pleasure in withdrawing, and hope that he and all other winners in the various contests will wear their laurels in peace and contentment, until another con flict shall challenge their right to retain them. Mr Bailey explains to us that he was not aware of the evidence taken by the Umpire before he gave his decision, and anything he said was in the heat of the moment. After the matter was explained to him he at once bowed to the ruling, and ran the Toy again at the time appointed on Saturday, when her first victory was made more decisive. The cricket match between the Bemuera and Parnell Cricket Clubs on Saturday was won by the former, with five runs to spare. Only one innings was played on each side, the scores being : Bemuera, 60 ; Parnell, 55. W. Cheesman, 18, and 11. Scarborough 15, both of Bemuera, were the only double figures. The Suez mail arrived op. Saturday las* by the Government s.s. Stella. Mr Seymour George, M.H.R.. addressed his constituents at Warkworth on Saturday evening, and received a unanimous vote of confidence and thanks. There was a very large attendance. An interesting service of scripture reading and song, in connection with the fruit mission, was held yesterday afternoon on the Hospital lawn, a great number of persons being present, in addition to the patients of the Hospital, who were able to get out into the sunshine. Mr R. Shalders conducted the service, and Mr Bloomfield the selected choir. The singing was very effective in the open air, and everything appeared in harmony with the scene. The fruit was most acceptable to the smiling recipients, who expressed their thanks in silent looks to Mr Lincoln and their thoughtful friends. At the close of this interesting service a collection was made towards the liquidating of the fruit account. Bishop Cowie held a religious service for seamen yesterday afternoon in the In surance Building, which was better attended than on previous Sunday, but not by the class of men for whose benefit these services were designed. The Bishop delivered an excellent discourse, and he hoped the friends present would do all they could in making it known among seamen that such Sabbath services were instituted in their spiritual interest. The clergy were pre pared to make sacrifices in holding the services at hours suitable to seafaring men. A meeting of the School Teachers' Literary Committee was held on Saturday afternoon in Mr Worthington's school. It was announced that seventy-three volumes of educational works had been received as a donation from Longman's, Green and Co., the eminent publishers of Paternoster Row. The secretary was requested to acknowledge the receipt of the volumes with a vote of thanks for the name. This was the chief business. The meeting was then formally adjourned. At the Cambridge Police Court on Friday last Abraham Isaacs, charged with assaulting Henry Niccoll, was fined 40s and costs. Charles Crouch and Phillip Campbell, for croating a disturbance, were fined respec tively 40s aud 30s, with costs. In the case of AY. Reid v. 11. Armor, claim £4 19s, defendant wa_ ordered to jmy £1 v month,

Mr Matthew Burnett, the temperance reformer, who is likely to visit New Zealand, in a letter giving an account of his recent farewell tour through Victoria, states that, during the seven weeks ever which it ex tended, he administered the pledge to more than 1,000 persons. The thermometer at Albury recently re gistered 114 in the shade. The telegraphic request for contributions towards the Rowland Hill fund comes in opportunely. Sir Roland Hill rendered eminent services to the State, and was well paid for them by a Parliamentary grant, and a life pension. The claims of the Rowland Hill testimonial are completely overshadowed and dwarfed by the claims of the thousands of starving Irishmen. The remains of the great postal reformer will not rest less comfortable if the erection of the proposed monument be delayed for a while. "St. Paul's Parish Magazine" for the present month contains a full report of the annual meeting of the parishioners held on the 23rd ultimo, also reports ot the vestry, Sunday-school and organ fund, with finan cial statements in detail in relation to church matters, altogether forming a useful compendium interesting to churchmen. The inner pages possess much interest, in cluding a notice of the first jking of Italy, the once popular ballad of the ".Fakenham Ghost," a iSufl'olk story, by 'the ploughboy of Honington, an Australian sketch, Alex ander Smith's "Va«rant and his Dog," " Cesar's Tower," Warwick ; known to Shakespere iv his youth, " Fifty Years Ago," a story of interest; the churchman's prayer, worthy of frequent repetition; a sketch of Saxon Englands, and a pithy sermon by the Rev Robert Sutton, a coun try clergyman well known in the neigh bourhood of Pevensey Castle, in the wheat growing English county of Sussex. The St. Paul's monthly calendar and guide add to the local value of this respectable brochure, edited by the Rev. C. M. Nelson, M.A. The members of the early closing move ment will hold their adjourned meeting to morrow (Tuesday) evening in the business room of the Working Men's Club. "Jenny Wren" recommends celery tea as an excellent remedy for rheumatism, a complaint to which many Auckland people are subjected. " Jenny" is a bonnie Scotch lassio of Glasgow, and evidently feels for persons who "limp and suffer" with the rheumatics. She does not wish to say one word against " Blood Restorer " or any other remedy for which rheumatic persons in their misery may have an "itching," but she has a thorough belief in the efficacy of the celery cure, and dis interestedly recommends a trial. She has known many persons who have not only been relieved, but radically cured by nature's simple offering. Jenny's prescrip tion is as follows :—" First of all wash and clean the celery well in two waters, having previously cut off the rough parts of the green stuff. Chop one-half of a stick, divided lengthways into half-inch pieces, and set it on the fire to stew, in a liberal supply of water. Let it simmer till pretty tender, preserve the liquid in which it has been stewed and drink it ; it is not in the least disagrcoable to the palate. Finish the stewing of the vegetable by mixing a tablespoonful of flour in half a pint of sweet milk, and add that to the celery. Let it heat thoroughly, but do not let it do more than come to the boil. Pour the whole over a slice of bread toasted, and cut iuto small pieces. Take this once a day, or eveu twice for the first three or four duys; it is excellent food even if it were not a cure for rheumatism. The Mammoth Minstrels performed to a good house oa Saturday evening. " Wait till the Violets Grow (Mr Amery), and " Daisy Bell " (Mr Read) were sung with exquisite taste, aud elicited rapturous applause. The Cheevers and Kennedy sketches, Mr Bent's sketch " A First Class Lunatic," "The Dancing Master" (Messrs Brown and Newlaud), and "The Wrong Major " elicited uncontrollable merriment. The other noticeable features were select ions by the excellent orchestra, a beautiful ballad by Mr Beaumont Read, and a quartette by Messrs; Read, Campbell, Frederick's and Amery. Messrs Bent and Brown take a benefit, aud we bespeak a bumper house for these inimitable per formers. The prizes obtained at the sports by members of the United Friendly Societies will be distributed this eveniug at the Lome-street Hall, in the interval of the per formance of the Mammoth Minstrels. The successful babies will also be present. To the Editor: Sir,—ln your issue of Saturday last appeared a letter signed "Fair Play." It is not my custom to notice newspaper correspondence when it is anonymous, but as this particular lotter concerns an institution under my charge and not myself personally, perhaps you will allow mc a portion of your space for the purpose of putting " Fair Play " right. At the recent distribution of prizes i. St. Paul's Suuday School, 47 prizes and 25 rewards were given ; the choristers received 7 prizes and 7 rewards. Of these only 16 books, which were given to the very little ones in the Sunday School, cost as little as your correspondent state*. The best prizes given to the choristers were of equal value with the best given to the Sunday School child ren. The average cost of the books given to the choristers was 2s Bd., that of the books given to the children (including the small rewards) was 2a 2d. It is also well known that the generous liberality of Messrs Upton aud Co., makes the nett cost of books for Sunday Schools considerably less than for the ordinary purchaser. True, three additional prizes were given to the choristers by members of the congregation for good conduct. But even here " Fair Play " was beyond the mark, for the books were nothing like three times as valuable as the School books. Our kind friends gave the Jads handsome volumes, as con sidering that choristers arc entitled to nioro recognition as they render services to the church, whereas children in a Sunday School are the recipients of benefits. Such letters as those of " Fair Play " can only lead us to think whether after all the system of giving prizes to Sunday School children is one that ought to be retained.— Yours, &c., Charles M. Nelson. Referring to the action of a resident at the Thames in respect to the Broorahall block, the " Thames Advertiser," says : — " The fact is the claimant in question had a political assistant at the Thames when the Broomhall negotiation was pending, and this representative of the claimant got up agitations amongst the people under the pretext that they were being robbed of their birthright, but ir. reality to promote the ends of his employer and patron, whose claim still remains unsatisfied. This polit ical agent told the Government that the people of the Thames would never consent to allow Broomhall settlers to occupy the land, and if they did not upset the arrange ment he would never support them again. Well, the arrangement was upset, and the Government got the support of the individual in question. Unfortunately for him, ho is not now in a position to render them further support, and we do not think his advocacy of the same individual claim to the block will be of much service on this occasion. He was formerly to be seen at street corners haranguine the noble digger, and emphati cally declaring that Broomhall should never have one inch of the land as long he lived ; now he is silent, haviug lost interest in the claim of his friend and patron. Broomhall, or Stewart, or Lincolnshire Farmers, it is all the same to him now. Although he then boasted loudly of tbe large area of land he wanted for his numerous progeny, he was conspicuous by his absence at the first sale of Te Aroha lands the other day, and his voice is no longer raised in support of the claims of Thames miners over the unoccupied lands of the Crown." At St. James's Presbyterian Church yesterday mornfng., the customary sermon gave place to a special address to the con gregation. The Rev. R, F. Macnicol drew the attention of those present to the passage of Scripture referring to the expulsion of the sellers of oxen, and doves from the Temple at Jerusalem, and then proceeded to refer to the decision of the congregation at the annual meeting on the previous Wednesday to allow dancing aud linking in the new St James's Hall. He greatly regretted that such a resolution had been arrived at. From the time that the ques tion of the erection of a ball had been spoken of, certain young men in the congregation had strongly sapportcd the project, but their motives In doing so were now dis closed. It was useless tor them to say that the only way of raising the money necessary to pay for the hull was by those means alluded to at the meeting in question. He felt certain that if they only asked Divine help, sufficient fuods for their needs would be forthcoming, and doubted if thero was any instance on record where a religious organisation had languished and died for want of funds. He appealed to the congre gation therefore to prevent the hall boing used for purposes of fun and frolic, mid said that in his eyes the hall was even more sacred than the sactuaey in which they were now assemblod, for thero the little lambs of the Hock had the Gospel trnths inculcated into their minds. Ho densuuend the deci sion at the mooting on WcdtieKihiy night a. a disgrace to the immo of Prosbytoriunism, and concluded by announcing thut a moot ing of the congregation would bo hold at 7..'10 p.m., on Wednesday next, in ordor to reconsider tho provioua resolutions arrivod ,at.

The attention of farmers and others is directed to an announcement in another column of a trial of a potato raiser, or digger, which takes place on Saturday next at Mr Hugh Knox's, Camp Farm. The machine is said to be the most perfect of its kind, having carried off all the leading prizes at home. The machine was manufactured by Messrs Wallace and Son's, Glasgow, aad was imported by Messrs Wallace and Hot ham, who are agents for the Glsgow firm. Mr J. B. Pisher, M.H.R., received a vote of confidence for bis address to the electors at Charleston. He compared the Liberal measures of the present Government to draughts of Liberalism passed through a Conservative filter. The New Zealand Enamel Paint and Varnish Works, Co., are being well patron ised, and their locally made paints, &c. from New Zealand materials are giving the highest satisfaction. Many colonial attempts to utilise .kauri gum in this man ner have failed, but Messrs Atkinson and Co. appear to have succeeded admirably and deserve genera 1 support, as they have expended a great c leal of time and money in developing this colonial industry. Parties who have used the paint have been much pleased with it.. A Melbourne gentle man was so much gratified with the appear ance of a house painted with the above, that he made overturns to the manufacturer to take a Bhare in tbie business with the view of establishing a branch factory in the other colony. The St. Andrew's organ recital will be held this evening, commencing at edght o'clock. The programme promises ex cellent selections from the compositions of Rossini, Handel, Spohr, Mendelssohn, and other stars in the heaven of melody. The object of the recital is to celebrate the open ing of the new gallery, which is not only a great convenience to the congregation, but adds to the beauty of the interior of St. Andrew's Church. This elegant gallery was designed by Mr P. Herapath ; and the work was carried out in a satisfactory manner under the direction of Mr Oliphant, the contractor. We learn that His Grace, Archbishop Stein- 0, has earnestly recommended tbe clergy of the Auckland Catholic Churches to induce their congregations and pcopla to contribute towarils tho alleviation of the distress of the people of Ireland. He further suggested that subscription lists should be placed at the doors of their res pective places of worship on the next and following Sundays. Similar instructions have been given in oth. v colonial districts. To tht Editor: Sir,—J-n reference to Mr Hill's question, "Is it ii'legal to charge for admission to a concert mi Sunday?" the following, given memoriter, may be to the point:—ln recent years an. aquarium wag constructed at Brighton, an d opened to the public on Sundays as well us other days, a charge being made for -admission. The director* were prosecuted, convicted, and fined for having intriuged a v obsolete law. Public opinion, however. was so much outraged that application w as made to the Home Secretary (Mr Cross) who remitted the line, since which, it is believed, the Sabbatarians of Brighton 1 vivo adopted, rather unwillingly, the motto "Let sleeping dogs lie." Commending their example to Mr Hill.—l remain&c., Skntry., The John Wesley experienced a feaiful gile about midway between Han Christoval and Santa Cruz, and sustained damage which compelled her return to Sydney. It is with regret that we learn of the death of Mr It Cogswell, for many years purser of the s.s. Hero. Tho deceased gentleman was well known and highly re spected here, ana the sad event, although not altogether unexpected, will be received with sorrow by hLs friends in Auckland. Mr P. H. Kirby, general agent for Messrs Hayman, and Co., having iiuinned his en-, g.gemetit with the Main noth Minstrels leaves for the South-in order to bring up an>ther company. It will probably be the. Italian Opera Troupe . Mr 15. Keane's annual picnic to Kawa kawa took place last week. The party, numbering 53, left .Auckland on Monday last in the s.s. Lily, aud remained until Saturday last. A mo.it enjoyable week was passed, tho amust'ments being of a diversified character, and calculated to suit all tastes. Tho youths h.-d good sport iv fishing, boating, ridiug, anil shooting. One of the party had a violin, and music was thus provided for dancing. A diary was kept by one of the party, and from this a full account of the proceeding- is to be obtained. During their stay they wero shown the remains of one of the largest war-canoes built in tho colony, the Maoris having bcon unable to get it to the water after constructing it. On their leturn, the excursionists gavo cheers for Mr and Mis Kcano, who had treoted them very kindly during their stay at Kawakawa. Tho W«sleyan's began public service yesterday at half past 2 o'clock, in the new school-room, Honderson's Mill. There was a very excellent attendance of the settlers, who entered into the worship most heartily. The school-room is a most fitting placo. The committee have most kindly allowed tbe place for the u<e of Divine services, to be conducted by tho Presbyterian's, W.s leyan's, and Church of England. We are glad to learn that the people are deter mined to set aside all differences of creed, and to go to the service, no matter who preaches, that the wholo work in harmony. The programme of sports to come off at Ellershe on Saturday, appears in the present issue, consisting of hurdle race handicap, and others, 'lhere will also bo a hurry scurry, aud a consolation race got up on the ground. Entries for the hurdle ra:o will bo received at tho Thistle Hotel, or by Mr 11. Brcnan, tho secretary, until 9 o'clock on Thursday evening. An extraordinary case carae before tho Melbourne Bench quite recently. Some time ago au order for the maintenance of his ille gitimate child was issued against a well-to v.o selector named Bowman, and shortly after this he left Melbourne, and nothing was heard of him till an obituary notice appeared iv a Melbourne morning paper announcing that he had been drowned while crossing the Bill&bong Creek. The girl ascertained on calling at the office of the newspaper referred to, and on being shown the manu- . script copy sent in, that Bowmanliad written ■ thcparagraphliimself, his intention doubtless i being to rid himself of the obligation of! paying for the maintenance of his offspring. His victim, who had been ruined under a promise of marriage, proceeded against him, and on being brought into Court, the accused offered either to marry the girl or to pay up the arrears, amounting to j£l7 10s, and to ' comply with the order of the other Court as to allowance. The prosecutrix declined the offer of marriage, and elected to take the arrears due. The regular monthly meeting of the members of the Lodge Ara will be held this evening at the usual hour. We notice that Miss Heath, a clever little actress, late of the Pinuforo Company, will take a benefit to-night in the Albert Hall, Darby-street. The bill of fare is full of seasonable and pleasant things ; among which will appear the " Clean and Tidy Widdy." We hope Miss Heath will meet with a largo number of friendly admirers to-night. ■ DOMAIN BOARD. The monthly meeting of the members of the Domain Board was held to-day. Piesent: Mr G. M. Mitford (Chairman), His Worship the Mayor, aud Messrs Macffarlanc, Fenton, and Robinson (Mayor | of Parnell).—The minutes of the previous meeting were confirmed. Pkison Labour.— An application having been made for prisoners from the gaol to do certain, work in the Domain without receiving a reply, His Worship moved, and Mr Macffarlane seconded, " That the Board renew the. application to the Attorney- General, desiring a reply."—Carried. Retort on Late Cases.— The rangor's report on the late cases for wilfully breaking fences and destroying trees iv the Domain, heard before Mr Barstow in the Polico Court.—A long discussion ensued, chiefly on the wording of the Act.—Mr Macffarlane suggested that in future a. solicitor should be employed to conduct such cases. —Mr Fenton said the attention of the Government should be called to tho con stitution of the Board in order that it might the more efficiently do its work. He hoped some geutlemau would movo in respect to the question of delegation.—His Worship then moved, and Mr Robinson seconded, "That tho question as to delegation being invalid, through a succession ot changes iv chairmanship, the attention of the Govern ment be called to it, iv order to the enforce ment of tho bye-laws by the Board."— Carried. Ranger's Holiday.—Mr W. Goldie, tho ranger, applied for a week's holiday, _f,or two years of unremitting service- Granted. Leases.—An application was received for tho lease of Wo allotments, offering £8 per annum.— Uu the motion of the chairman, it was agreed to lease the said land by auction. AucouKTS, —The monthly accounts were brought up and passed, showing a balance at the bank. Lord C , whose popularity was not ex cessive in*the Scotch town of A , having refused an importunate beggar, she renewed her application with :" Now, me lord, if y C 'd just giro me one little sixpence I could treat ; every frind yo have iv tho town."

Singular Loss of Speech.

♦ EXCESSIVE EMOTION. Instances are on record of the sudden deprivation of speech through great excess of emotion, strong revulsion of feeling, or unexpected frights, just as there are of the almost instantaneous blanching of hair by the same means; but they are of such rate occurrence that very few people indeed have had such cases brought within their immediate kenjand cognisance. The report therefore of such a distressing event in our midst is calculated to createaprofoundaensa tion, and especially so as the family upon which the affliction has fallen is generally known and widely respected. The particulars are as follows:—Mr Dorrington, watchmaker and jeweller of Pitt-street, was at a.^ tem perance meeting with his wife on Friday evening, and with tne rest of the audience was naturally alarmed when the fire-bells rang out. The precise locality of the fire was not known for some time, but finally some one brought the news that it was in Pitt-street. Mrs Dorrington was painfully excited by this statement, and accom panied by her husband she proceeded home with all possible speed. Her solicitude for the safety of her children was touching, and when they arrived at the resi dence and found it intact as well as not endangered, and the little ones sleeping peacefully, her joy was propor tionately deep. She swooned away and for three hours remained in a state of insensi bility. When she regained consciousness she appeared perfectly composed, but singu larly enough made no reply to the sympa thetic questions addressed to her. At length she motioned for writing materials, and when these were supplied she wrote that her intense relief on finding her children safe had produced the swoon, and that now she found, herself unable to articu late a syllable. The husband was as tonished beyond measure and though he resorted to every possible method of secur ing the restoration of his wife's speech he he had not succeeded up till Saturday after noon. The friends of the family have been plunged into great grief by the sorrowful occurrence, and it is to be earnestly hoped that relief will be obtained for the poor woman.

SUDDEN DEATH.

Information was brought to town this afternoon of the sudden decease at noon to day of Mr William Fergussoo, of Ellerslie, who died suddenly while driving a dray opposite the English Church. The deceased is 50 years of age. He arrived in Auckland some twenty years ago, and for the first ten years worked at Motutapu, in tho employ of Mr Graham, since which time he has boon residing at Ellerslie. He was au in dustrious, respectablo settler. We are informed that whilo coming along the road he felt ill and said, "Am I sick, or what's tho mutter withmc?"

The Rotomahana Enquiry.

(Before R. C. Barstow, R.M., and Captain Frater). This Court sat for the purpose of enquiring into the cause of an accident to the steam ship Rotomahana, by striking against a rock near the Great Barrier Island, on the Ist of January, 1880, tho said ship being under the command of Captain Underwood. Mr Brookiield appeared for Mr Hill, of the Customs, and Mr J. B. Russell watched the caie on tho part of the commander. | Mr Brookiield opened the case, and de tailed the circumstances, which will appear in evidence. Thomas Hill, Collector of Customs, Auclii loud, deposed that he, in his oilicial capa city, applied for the investigation, under instructions from the Minister of the Marine Department. Thomas Underwood, master of the ship Botomahana, depose: I hold a master's certificate from London ; was master of the the ship on Mew Year's Day; (certificate produced). The first, secoud, and third olliccrs hold master's certificates of com petency ; had received a copy of the state ment embodied in the teport. (Witness here stated particulars as to the name of the ship, official number, port of Duuedin, re gistered tonnage, and other formal informa tio.n). The ship was first-class, Al at Lloyd's; had 350 passengers on board; started from Auckland at 9.50 a.m., on tho Ist of January ; atmosphere fine ; sea smooth ; high water on leaving. Could not state the exact locality of the cauuality. Witness marked on tho chart the spot according to bis belief. I do not know the estimated damage doo eto the ship. The cargo was uninsured. Ne-ver bad any intimation of her being in sured. Could not say. The Court said it was not necessary to rvsk the captain for such information. The captain : There were no lives lost. Charles Jones was acting as pilot. Tho ship was not strandod ; 'twas a grazing ; site merely touched the rock without losing In ir way. Saw nothing to cause any fear T tic name and address of owner, is Union Si earn Shipping Company, Dunedin. Had never before been iv port at Great Barrier, ai id objected to to Mr Henderson against hr being sent thero, as it wus dangerous. ]\ tr Henderson said he would £ct a pilot, a> id ho did so. I subsequently interviewed __)[r Jones, the pilot, but still demurred a) sainst going. Have boen a master nineteen yi Jars, aud have been in a port in China with an -unlicensed pilot. I was guided chiefly by' Pilot Jones, butl used my own judgment Oft well. I still handled tho ship. After hearing some further evidence, tho case was adjourned to 9.30 a.m. to-morrow.

WELLESLEY-STREET SCHOOL.

AT noon to-dny William Gorrlo, Esq., chairman of the City School Committee, accompanied by Mr Schmidt, attended at the Wellesley-strcet school at tho request of the headmaster, to deliver to the success ful competitors at the recent examination the awards made by the Board of Educa tion. To G. Lippiatt, F. Burton, R. Me- I Phcrson, and J. Ross (boy*), and to C. i FinlayandS. Purdio (girls.) Scholarships were awarded, which entitle them to a money payment of £30 per annum and free tuition at the Grammar School (for boys) and Girl.j High School (for girls) for two years, and to F. Ohlsou and R. Heron '(boys), and G. Thompson and E. Coad (girls) certificates of proficiency which entitle them to tuition only. In making the awards Mr Gorrie said he fully endorsed the remarks made by the head master, that the results of the ex amination wero the product of regularity and honest hard work. He would remem ber the suggestion thrown out by Mr Worthington that the names of suc cessful competitors should be emblazoned on the walls that future pupils may be incited to emulate the deeds of those who had preceded them. Mr Worthington thanked the chairman for his attendance on the occasion, and remarked that not less than twenty-five pupils bad now left the school with scholarships, and seven with certificates of proficiency since he had taken charge of it in 1873.

ACCLIMATSATION SOCIETY.

The monthly meeting of the Acclimatisa tion Society 'was held this afternoon, there being present :—The Hon. H. Chamberlain (in the chair), Mr Bull, Mr Pond, and Mr J. C. Birth. I THE WHITEFISH OVA. Mr J. C. Firth reported the successful distribution of the whiteiish fish in the lakes of the province. The ova were iv an excellent condition very healthy indeed, aud he had no doubt that by this time that the hatching process would be completed. The distribution was made as follows:—Dundeiu, 115,000 ova; tributary of Lake Rotorua, 50,000 ova; Tikitapu, 250,000 ova; Taraworu, 75,000 ova; Okatainu (an adjacent lake), 25 000 ova; and Lake Taupo, 200,000. Tho mortality had been great in the Domain, but othorwise the first stage of tho experiment had been satisfactorily per formed. Mr Bull, in a eulogistic speech, proposed a [hearty vote of thanks to Mr Firtn for the services which ho had just rendered the Society. Tho motion was seconded by Mr Pond, and passed. This gentleman questioned the ulli mato success of the experiment, the waters of our lakes being far |too warm for the fish. The matter of transporting the fish in the Domain to Lake Takapuna was left in the hands of Mr Cheescman. AUSTRALIAN SWALLOWS. A letter was received from Mr Sutton, of Napier, with reference to the introduc tion of Australian swallows. The secretary was instructed to inform the writer that the Society had offered a reward of £50 during the past three years for the first dozen of swallows introduced, and that it had not yet been claimed. ACCOUNTS. The usual monthly accounts were passed for payment. This was all the business

A youne; man who held a loaded pistol to his head and threatened to blow his brains out unless tho girl who had refused him would consent to have him, was coolly told by the young tady he would have to blow some brains into his head first. He didn't blow,— " Cincinnati Saturday Night,"

CABLE NEWS.

EUROPEAN.

[UNITED PRESS ASSOCIATION.] Cost of Zululand Jrtesidency. LONDON. Janmary 31. The cost of the British Eesidency in Zululand is to be divided between Natal and the Transvaal. The Wheat Market. LONDON. January 30. New Zealand wheat is quoted at 555. Flour, 425, and drooping. Desperate Afghans. LONDON. January 30. Fatakienklen has informed General Roberts that he will fight to the last. Mutinous Cabulese. The Cabulese have refused 4yoob Khan's request to inarch on Farah. New Chief Justice "Western Australia. LONDON. January 31. ( Mr Wrenfordsby, of Mauritius, is Gazetted Chief Justice of Western Australia.

LONDON.

[REUTERS SPECIAL CABLEGRAMS. |

January 30. Orient Company Mail Service. The General Post-office having intimated that under the Act of Parliament passed in 1840 the conveyance of mails by the Orient Company is compulsory, the Australian mails will be earned by that line as hitherto. Affairs in Afghanistan un settled. CALCUTTA. January 30. The condition of affairs in Afghanistan is unsettled. The malcontents are rallying at Ghuznie, and declare that they will fight unless Yakoob Khan is reinstated. Yon Molkte's "Views on "War. LONDON. January 31. Replying to a memorial from peasants in favour of a reduction of the army instead of an increase, Count Moltke said it was im possible, and would be possible only when the European nations, under religious and moral influence recognised war as a national calamity. Greek Frontier Question. LONDON. Januury 31. The "Globe " telegrams from Berlin suggests a fresh Congress for the purpose of settling the boundary of Greece and Turkey. The Peace Society LONDON. January 31. An Influential memorial to the Govern ment demands a Commission like that of Jamaica for the hanging at Cabul. Obituary : Lord Anglesea.

AUSTRALIAN.

[REUTERS SPECIAL CABLEGRAMS.] "Happy Land." SYDNEY. February 2. The production of " Happy Land " was a great hit. It is rumoured the Government intend to prohibit its repetition.

Mr. F. A. Whitaker at Hamilton.

(BY TELEGRAPH.) HAMILTON, Saturday. Mr F. A. Whitaker met the Hamilton section of his constituents to-day in the court-house, and addressed them on political matters. His Worship the Mayoi (Captain Dawson) being in the chair. Mr Whitaker began his speech with a reference to the large amount of business that had been ac complished during the recent session, and after this he we.it on to state his reasons for joining the Hall party. Mr Macandrew had systematically undermined the prosp erity of Auckland, had attended only to the "interests of his own beloved province. Ho therefore preferred to oppose this man and the party of which ho was a member, and accordingly throw in his lot with Mr Hall, who was a man of honour. The Grey party was so disintegrated that it could not manage its own ..flairs, and this fact coupled with the absenco of any responsible head soon led to its fall. After dwelling on the liberal character of tho legislation introduced aud supported by the present Government, and exhibiting the extravagance of their predecessors, the speaker went on to treat of local matters. The Waikato-Thames Railway was now under way, while tho construction of the Rotorua Road, to which he was pledged, would be put In hand at once, and ho believed the end of the Summer would see it approaching completion. It was his in tention to have the Raglan and Waipa side well opened up and a branch line of railway formed from Cambridge. The gentleman concluded by urging nis hearors to insist firmly upon financial reform, economy of expenditure aud careful administration. Upon the motion of Mr Hadfield, secon ded by Mr Cook a vote of confidence in tho member was passed with acclamation. The meeting concluded with three cheers for Mr Whitakor, and three more for his wife. _________________________

Grand Sunday Evening Concert.

» A grand sacred concert was held last evening iv the Choral Hall by the Mam moth Minstrels. The hall was crowded to excess, both floor and gallery being crammed, and even the orchestra was called into requisition to provide seats for the many lovers of the divine art who had assembled in the expectation of a treat. Thero were a great many who went from curious motives, but they "went to scoff and remained to pray." The concert was a great success, ana the programme, contain ing selections from the most-renowned com posers, was excellently carried out. The entertainment commenced with the "Gloria in Exclesiß," from Mozart's "Twelfth Mass," and,although correctly rendered, this exhibi ted a Jack of bass power. The quartette, "The Sabbath Day" (by Kreutzer) was well given by Messrs. Campbell, Fredericks, Read aud Amery. Mr Campbell then sang Glover's "Consider The Lilies," and in such a masterly style that a large portion of the audience, forgot the day, and ap plauded in a demonstrative manner. At tho conclusion of the song, Mr Campbell re-mounted tho platform, and requested the audience to abstain from any applause. The next piece of importence was Rossini's "ProPecatis" from the "Stabat." given by Mr Amery. The selection was iv every respect efficiently Bung, Mr Thompson gave a violin solo; taking his selection from the varied music of Bellini. Mr Beaumont Read gave " He Was Despised," from the Messiah, in good style, and his sweet alto voice was productive of a good effect. Gounod's "Nazareth," sung as it was in tended with solo and chorus, was then given, Mr Campbell singing the solo. His fine voice filled tho hall, and added extra solemnity to the highly suggestive music of this composor. This concluded the first portion of tho entertainment. One of Royloffs overtures was giveu as an intro duction to the latter portion of the pro gramme, and was excellently performed by the orchestra. Mr Amory sang " Ecce Deus Salvator Mcus " well. The trio for three cornets was not so successful as we had anticipated, and the similarity of the instru ments did not admit the beautiful blending noticeable when sung by the female voices. Nevertheless, it was a pretty performance, and with the exception of one false note was well given. Alexander Lee's song, "He wipes a tear from every eye," was beautifully rendered by Mr Beaumont Read. " Tantnm Ergo," by Pacini, sung by Mr Campbell, was the next performance, and we think the gem of the evening. The performance concluded with the "Sweet Bye-and-bye," sung by Mr Read and chorus. The concert was a grand musical success, and although doubts as to its propriety are fully discussed, the large audience present last night was to a great extent an index to the public mind.

Whon the girl who has enoouraged a young man for about two years suddenly turns around and tolls him that she can never be more than a sister to him, he can for tho first time see the freeHes on aw nose.-" Detroit Free Press."

TELEGRAPHIC.

[UNITED PRKSS ASSOCIATION.] GRAHAMSTOWN, this day. The Stewards of the late Thames Race Meeting, passed all accounts, and placed the balance, £61 13s 4d, to the credit of three trustees, for the purpose of holding a race meeting on St. Patrick's Day. SHAREMARKET. Alburnia, sellers, 90s; buyers, 87s 6d. Old Whau, sellers, 90s. Moanatairi, sellers 60s; buyers, 565. North Devon, sellers, 8s ; buyers, 7s 6d. Kuranui Bill, sellars, 7s. Queen of Beauty, sellars, 8s; buyers, 7s. RUSSELL, this day. The Arawata has not yet arrived, the late easterly gales havfng probably de tained her

TIMARU, Saturday.

CRIMINAL.

Francis Arthur Simes, merchant, has been committed for trial for larceny. Bail was allowed, himself in £100 and two sureties of £100 caeh. Charles Arthur Kelly, for stealing silver watch, and Dennis Garrett, for uttering a forged cheque, were also convicted. CHRISTCRCJPCH, Saturday. Pastor Chiniquy arrived this morning. A large number of persons assembled on the wharf to await the arrival. Among these were a number of ministers. On the steamer reaching the wharf, several of those who were taking part in the re .eption went on board, and were introduced to the rev. lecturer. An address was presented, and suitably acknowledged. WELLINGTON, Saturday. The steamer Kangaroo with the new cable to be laid across Cook's Strait- arrived at Hobart Town on Thursday. She left there to-day, and may be expected here at the end of next week. The lad who appropriated certain letters from the post-office at Taratahi, Feather ston, has been arrested and committed for trial. Latest betting on the Wellington Cup : 7to 2 against Foul Play, 4 to 1 against Lara, 6 to 1 against Hippocampus, 6 to 1 against Laertes, 10 to 1 against the others. WELLINGTON, this day. NEW TKIAL. At the Supreme Court, in Banco, Mr Rees applied for a new trial in the libel action Anderson v. Kirkbridge. Judg ment -was reserved. DUNEDIN, this day. A verdict for £500 damages is given in McKcnzie v. Smith. A committee of the Jockey Club is ap pointed to consider the question of allowing the totalizator. Nicholson, a hard-labour prisoner, was drowned while bathing at Port Chalmers. The premises ot Richard Benecki, Kaikari Valley, have been destroyed by fire. Insur ance in Standard, £1,250.

Ellerslie Sports.

♦ After the despatch ot our first pigeon message from the gardens on Saturday the numbers of the people in attendance gradually increased until fully 100 were present. The 2.30 train brought a number, a crowded express wagon followed,and about a score of horsemen also arrived, and as if to farour the result of the meet, the clouds dispersed, and a very pleasant afternoon was spent. Stimulated by these promising auguries the public interest deepened, ana money was freely placed on the competitors for the first event. We append a description of the various matches :— Two-miles Trotting Race, I. Gwynne'sgmPoJly (scratch) 1 G. McDonald's b g Akeake (150 yds) ... 2 Schmiedel'sbg Charlie (100 yds) 3 Kelly's b m Maggie (scratch) 0 Temptation's br g Touch-me-Not (50yds) 0 R. Lee's b m Stranger (50yds) 0 Evans' br m Dolly Varden (100 yds) ... 0 Montague's g g Dainty (100 yds) 0 T. Williams' g m Polly (100 yds) 0 M. McDonald's b m Fantail (150 yds) ... 0 A very good start was effected, and the various horses went welL They broke several times, but speaking jjeneia'ly the trotting was good. After the first round o£ the course Gwynne's Polly became a hot fovourite, while Akeake's style was also much admired. The former animal steadily went to the front, and won a. she liked. Mr George Lcndrum acted as judge, Mr R. Wynyard as starter, and Messrs T. Brown, Young, and Jamieson as referees. Two Mile Sweepstakes Hurdle Race —Weights, lOst. up : Jamieson's Marquis 1 Brown's Nettle 2 Wynv_rd'g Cockio 0 Blich's Patsy 0 Lee's Stranger ... ... ... 0 This race was arranged at the conclusion of the trotting match, and it certainly resulted in a capital contest. There were only two hurdles, and though Cockie was the only horse which took them cleanly and well, he was never in the runniug. Nettle and Marquis had the race -well in band from the first, and they led it at a rattling pace, knocking down most of the hurdles that they attempted to negotiate, but not for a moment abating their speed. Cockis jumped splendidly, but he had not sufficient "go in him to overtake his fleet-footed rivals. Nettle won a pretty contest, with Marquis an excellent second.

CONCLUSION OF REGATTA.

Two races took place after we went to press on Saturday afternoon. The first was the uig race for amateurs under 21 years of age. This was won easily by the Ponsonby crew, with Auckland second. The scullers' race was the best of the rowing contests. McDonnell, in the Tyrone, took the lead at the start, buthe was closely followedandsub sequently|passed by Halstead, in the Ama teur. An exciting struggle ensued, which resulted in a victory for Halstead by about a length.

WHAT IS SAUCE FOR GOOSE IS SAUCE FOR GANDER.

(To the Editor.) Sir, —In answer to your correspondent who signs himself as above, I would like to refresh his memory a little relative to the Irish people, whom ho is so severe against. The letter is not very creditable to its author, judging from its vindictive and spiteful ton., especially at this time of Ireland's tribulation and woes. I cau and do make every allowance for poor "Gander," for when the liver is out of order everything goes wrong. Bin pitiful letter is the out come of bile. He must surely remember that the great Duke of Wellington, and Lord Nelson, with a host of noble Irishmen distinguished as warriors, statesmen, and orators, are proud to claim Ireland as their birth-place. Let "Goose" look at Eng land's Gracious Queen, as she, the fond mother, admires her darling son, who has just been created Duke of Connaught, in Ireland, by the Irish people, and Colonel of that gallant regiment, the SSth Royal Irish, famous in history by its daritig deeds at Waterloo. What a contrast this regi ment bears to the hungry appetites of the cherry-pickers, who, instead of minding their duty, were robbing orchards. While so doing, they were almost to a man cut to pieces. Let history speak; listen not to the farm-yard cackle of goose or gander. Well, what about his brother, the Prince of Wales ? I can tell poor Goose a little about him. I stood beside the young Prince on many occasions when he waa at the camp ou the Curragh County, Kildare, Ireland. It was his own wish to receive his mili tary education on Irish soil, surrounded as he would be there by Irish regiments—the fittest place to qualify him to become a daring commander and our future king. He returned to England the makings of a brave soldier cucoutaminated by vice or crime. The young Prince was sent to Ireland to keep him away from the host of military blackguards long siuci. kicked out of the Imperial Sorvice. I hope Goose, since he has learnt the nationality of Wellington and Nelson, will not destroy their likenesses hanging on his wall, for I would gladly buy them. Guy Fawkes he may keep, as he was not a native of the soil. Judging from his letter, " Goose" is devout. He should study the works of eminent Irish divines, such as "Tir Adam Clark's Commentatory." If he is fond of poetry, he might learn that beautiful song of Moore's, " The Harp that Once." Does he admire oratory—let him listen to Whitside, Keogh, and Armstrong, Butt, with all the train of eminent Irish statesmen. "GoDse" said no Irish need apply—it would be well if they were en gaged when they did apply. Their mis tresses would not be boiled in coppers alive or dead, neither would the innocents be smothered in tubs of boiling suds under the cloak of baby farmini;. He calls common politeness blarney. If so, for the sake of the unfortunate women, let that blarney ba established in England and throughout the world, then no more the cry will be heard from the lips of cruel cowards, "Give her the boot, Ned, give her the boot."—Yours, L&C C. C.

THE SUEZ MAIL.

—♦ — LONDON, December sth. The demonstrations at Newcastle, Man cheater, and London, respecting the anest of Davitt, Daly, and Killen have been ot the most trumpery character. Nobody of any influence took part in them, and though 40,000 persons were said to be present at the Hyde Park demonstration the actual "demonstrators" were under 5000. Mr Shaw, the leader of the Irish Parliamentary party, has become more active in his denunciations of the outcry which Mr Parnell is making against the land laws. It is a little unfortunate for Mr Parnell's agitation that the tenants of that gentleman complain of the smallness of his rebate as compared with the amount which he demands from other landlords in the name of the suffering people. ST. PETERSBURG, Nov. 21. A RUSSIAN SQUADRON IN THE PACIFIC. Great interest attached here to the newly formed Russian squadron in the Pacific, under Admiral Aslanbckoff. The vessels, of which the said squadron is to be com posed, are to proceed to their destination by quite different ways. The frigate Minine, and the cruiser Asia, are to take the shortest cut by way of the M editerrancan and the canal of Suez, whilst the clipper Naezdnik is to go round the Cape of Good Hope, and the clipper Ruzboiuik round Cape Horn, and all of them.are to assemble at the port of Yokohama, in Japan. As far as could have been ascertained, the object of that Russian squadron in the Pacific is to con sist in solving the following problems :—l.Tho exploration and description of the Russian coast of the Pacific, as well as that of the adjoining seas and islands. 2. The choice of the best means of transporting convicts to the island of Saghalien, and the examin ation of all matters concerning the same subject. 3. The protection of Russian subjects engaged in fish trade iv the seas of the Pacific in view of the persecution in which they are subjected on the part of the American* engaged in the same trade in those regions. 4. The exploration of the Pacific on account of the contemplated service of the Russian cruisers in that part of the world, in case of war with England. Even were Admiral A.lanbekoff to find the means of provision ing such cruisers in certain contingencies otherwise than at the ports of China and Japan, Poweis which are greatly afraid of England, and which would be both closed to Russian cruisers in case of a war with Eng land, and which would be both closed to Russian cruisers in case of a war with Eng land, and were he to succeed in finding a refuge for his cruisers and a place of safe, storage for their booty, all that will be of no avail for the present time, since the whole attention of the pigmean fleet under Aslanbekoff in case of an immediate war with England ought to be directed to the defence of the mouth of the Amour, and the Russian dominions on that river, in order to protect theru against the enemy. THE FOREIGN POLICY OF RUSSIA. Gortschalcoff is now reported to have al most completely withdrawn from the direc? tion of the foreign policy of the Empire, the Emperor having been for some time past his own Chancellor, availing himself of the sole aid of Mr Giers. It is evident that all the efforts of the Russian diplomacy are for the time being directed towards the conciliation of the immediate neighbours of Russia, in order to avert any collision with them for the present, and to have their hands free in energetically opposing the hostile policy of Russia's most dangerous foe—the English in Central Asia and Turkey. Schouvaloff's recall has been greeted with satisfaction by the Russian society of St. Petersburg, and the belief is now expressed that it is the work of Miloutine, who was always hostile to the policy pursued by Schouvaloff in England, where the lattler invariably proved to he a docile tool in the hands of the Russophobes. RUSSIAN OPERATIONS AGAINST THE TEKKE-TURCOMANS. The column, ordered to operate against the Tekke-Tnrcomans, presented quite a curious medley of representatives of different regiments of the Caucasus, with Generals ordered from other military bodies. Each General strived to gain distinction tor him self without any regard to the interests of the expedition, hurried the men into action A'ithout taking the trouble of reconnoitring, the transport service was as badly organised as the approvisioniog of the column, and the expedition, upon the whole, has no chance of success even if the aifoir of Geok Tepe had not been a .failure. The losses sustained by the Russians in that affair, are as follow:—6 officers and 181 men of the file killed ; 20 officers and 226 men wounded, and a great many of those contusioned besides. The whole expeditionary corpe suffered so much on the way from all sorts of privations and diseases, aud was compelled to leave so many men behind, that the whole corps at the time of the Geok Tepe engagement was reduced to one-third of its normal strength. There has been indeed a great deal of money spent upon the expedition—about ten millions of roubles it is said. Already a much larger force has been ordered from the Caucasus to reinforce the army of which General Turgukassoif has assumed the command. The Russians will return to the charge early next spring in greater force, and their Generals will certainly carry on the next campaign in a more prudent manner than that in which Lomakine has conducted the present one. Scobeleff is said to succeed in Prince Dolgorouky's charges in the Akhat Tekke expedition next spring, and the prospect of that nomination has greatly tended to appease the' public discontent, as it is firmly believed that, with bcobelell, the enterprise will be taken up with greater spirit, the resistance of the Turcomans will be' speedily crushed and Merv captured at last. Everybody here is of course aware of the fact, that the independence <>f Merv has always been a caidiual point iv the Ceutral Asian policy of England, but the enmity towards England has sharpened to such a point of late that notwithstanding the heavy burdens, to which the nation will have to submit in order to provide means for further military operations in Central Asia, every attempt of the Government to check the English progress in that part of the world will be met by alniost unrestricljed. approval on the part of the Russian people.

Sports in the Domain.

' "*— ' On Saturday afternoon last, the Friendly Societies Mile Walking Race came off in the Domain. Between 20) and 300 persons were present, and the following compctitois started :—Lowe, scratch ; Jamieson, 30 yards ; Martin, 35 yards; Gault, 45 yards; R. Cantell, 45 yards; Binns", 50 yards; ; Mclvor, 60 yards ; Saunders, 60 yards; J. McMadigan, 95 yards. All started walk ing, Martin add Jamieson making good tha start they gave' the others, bnt Lowe _ap« peared too stiff to give any account of him self, and the last time round, left the race in the hands of Martin, Sannders, Cantell, and Jamieson. Martin passed Saunders and made preparations to take it easy, but Saunders (a mere lad) put on a pace and the two breasted the tape so closely that a cry was raised that it was a dead heat," but the judges declared in favour of Martin. Cantell came close upon their heels, with Jamieson a good fourth, the others some distance behind. Saunders walked well throughout, and led most of the way. In addition to the walking race, a run ning match took place between T. Cox and T. Cooper, 120 yards, £5 a-side. Much excitement prevailed, but Cooper was slightly the favourite. Mr C. B. King acted as starter, and both pot away to a splendid start. About half-way Cooper began to leave his man behind, and finally came in about five yards a-head. It was a good race, Messrs Katterns and Shepherd acted as judges.

A CAT'S LIVELY EXPERIENCE WITH BEES.

Charles Kaiser, who ha 3 tho only hive of bees in town, says that when he first got his colony, his old cat's curiosity was much excited la regara n to the doings of the little insects, to tho h_eOi which Bhe had never seen. At first she watonea their comings and doings at a distance. Tnw sho fluttered herself upon the ground and crej» along toward the hive with tall horizontal wo quivering. It was clearly evident that ww thought the bee some new kind of gauw. Finally .he took up a position at the entrance <>l the hive, and when a bee came in or started obi made adab at it with her paws, This wanton for a tim. without attracting the attention ««■ the inhabitants ef the bive. . -„* Presently however, old Tabby struck anu crushed a bee on the edge of tho opening ' the hive. The smell of the crashed bee a'armeu andenraged the whole colony. Bees by the sew poured forth and darted into tbe fur o. the a* tonlshedcat. Tabby rolled herself in the£«» spitting, spluttering, biting, clawing and sqra» ingas a cat never squalled before. t>^aaVP_*_. a. mere mass ot fur and bees. She was at iew> hauled away from the hive with a g-rden raw* atacostoc several etines to her rescuer.» ■ after she had peen taken to a distant part 01 <* grounds the bees stuck to Tabbjrtj fur, andaoou once in two minutes she would yl«r "/j n to unearthly "yowl"and bounce a full J^L,, the air. Two or three days after the advemur. Tabby was caught by her owner, who W^e. by the neck and throw her dow« near tw m No sooner did she strike the ground tban»^ gave a squall, and at a single hound wag the top of the fence, fully six feet .^Xtetz » shn clung for a moment, with a tail as Dig"^ . rolling-pin, when with another bound aoam ~ she was out of signt, and did not **&*s}!s&, ~ appearance for more than a wees,— »»•» .' P.itrr Kntfimrise." - "" _

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9 1880.



Special Advertisements. riO-OPEBATIVB PRICES FOR CASH. CO-OPERATIVE PRICES AND QUICK SALE. CO-OPERATIVE PRICES A PUBLIC BENEFIT. We are Selling the Cheapest DRESS GOODS We are Selling PRINTS and CALICOS at a Small Advance on Cost. MANCHESTER GOODS MILLINERY UNDERCLOTHING Men's and Boys' Clothing At Co-operative Prices. FOR CASH ONLY. ILLUSTRATIVE LINES OF PRICES showing Advantages Gained by Supporting THE PURE CASH SYSTEM. GARLICK & CRANWELL Are Selling Two, three, and four-button Kid Gloves at 2s 6d, 2s 9d, 3s; "Silver Bell" Glove Fitting Corsets, at 2s 6d Wool Damasks, 3s 6d and 3s 9d per yard Silk Umbrellas (Paragon Frame), 6s 6d Fast-Colour Prints, 6_d per yard Brown Hollands, from 5d upwards Cambric Handkerchiefs, 4s per dozen Silk Embroidered Scarfs. 9d, lOd, and Is 3d Blue Diagonal Coats, 12s 6d (half-price) Lace Curtains, 3s Cd, 4s lid, 0s lid, upwards. p. ~"cr~ s. We have adopted the Pure Cash System for the following reasons :— I.—lt is fairest to both bayer and seller, be cause, by avoiding bad debts, our Cash Customers will not have to make good the losses occasioned by defaulters, and the Quick Cash Returns will enable us, as Sellers, to buy more extensively, and take full advantage of cash discounts, in which gain our customers will parti cipate. 2. The increased business which must follow consequent on selling goods at a small advance on cost, will give our customers the same advantage as though they were shareholders in a Co-operative Society. 3. Our patrons will always have a large, fresh, and well-assorted Stock to select from. BUY YOUR DRAPERY AND CLOTHING FROM GrARLICK & CRANWELL, CITY HALL ARCADE, QUEEN STREET AND LORNE STREET. STOCKTAKING TT7-ILLIAM TOATTRAY, In preparation for Stock-taking, has REDUCED the PRICES of his Large Stock of SUMMER COSTUMES, SILK JACKETS, SUMMER SKIRTS, & PINAFORES, which he is now offering at such prices as must effect a Speedy Clearance. SILK JACKETS, Reduced from 57s 6d to 85s Ditto Reduced from £510s to £4 _s Ditto Reduced from £1010s to £7 SUMMER COSTUMES, Reduced from 17s 6d to 10s6d Ditto Reduced from 27s Od to 13s Bd Ditto Reduced from 42a to 30s Ditto Reduced from £5 to £3 7s 6d BUMMER SKIRTS. Reduced fiom 7s 6d to 3s Ditto Reduced from 9s 6d to 6s 6d Ditto Reduced from 12s 6d to 8s 6d PINAFORES, Reduced from 7s 6d to is 6d AT W. RATTRAY'S COSTUME, MANTLE, MILLINERY, AND Genebal Drapery Establishment, NEW ZEALAND HOUSE, 66, Queen Street, Auckland (Opposite the Bank of New Zealand). AUK /.BEAT QALE OF MEN'S AND BOYS' CLOTHING, HATS, CAPS, AND* SHIRTS, COMMENCES ITHIS EVENING. All the New Shipments recently received will lio sold at SALE PRICES. ALE -TRICES. J. COSGKAVE & CO. A FEW GOOD REASONS FOR MAKING YOUR PURCHASES AT THE TyEYV rvEALAND /CLOTHING TjiACTORY. The Materials are manufactured In New Zealand. The Garments are made in New Zealand. The Money is expended in New Zealand. The Stock to eele^t from is the largest in New Zealand. The Cut and Trimmings are equal to bespoke. The Prices, considering the quality and finish, are lower than those of any other honse In New Zealand. And notwithstanding the extra tariff just imposed in New Zealand, there is tS- NO ADVANCE IN PRICEBI Yon can still purchase A SINGLE GARMENT AT THE WHOLESALE PRICE J-KOM THE New [Zealand Clothing Factory. Auckland Retail Bbanch : q v c c n - st r, c ie t. Opposite Theatre Royal. BX A N A Z I. JUST OPENED BY £ JJJI NABUBY & pO. 1 Case French MILLINERY, BONNETS, 1 Csuperb goods, to bo sold cheap 1 Caso Ladles' TRIMMED HATS 1 Case Children's PINAFORES, DRESSES, and BLOUSES, the Largest and Choicest Stock in the City 1 Caso Ladies' Galatea, Stripe, and Cold Lustre COSTUMES 1 Caso Ladies' Cambric and Print Mourn ing Wbappehs. from 5s 6d each—so per cent cheaper than ever sold in Auckland before 3.Cases FANCY GOODS, comprising all the Novelties of the Season. DRESSMAKING ON THE PREMISES. . A. LINABURY & CO., 204 Aitd 206. QUEEN-STREET.



The newP.C.S system now Doing initiated by G. and O. will certainly prove a benefit to the public. It has been a groat success In B ydnoy and Molbourno, aDd when strictly carried out the customer who buys at an establishment whore the goods are marked low to ensure a rapid sale must be a great gainnr. G. and C. sell their drapory, mll/lncry, and clothing at such prices lor cash ns gives the buyer tho advantages of a shareholder in a co-opeiativo society, without the risk of being called upon to bear portion of the loss should the year's business prove unsatis factory. G. and C. will aim to retain tho con fidence which tt>o public havo hlthorto shown them, and aro determined to give tbo pure cash system a fair trial; whether thoy gam or loso the first year. Country buyers on remitting cash with order will be supplied with goods at co operative price--, just the same as though thoy made a personal selection. Furnishing goods such as carpets, floor cloths, bedstead.l, boddlng and general house furniture, tho largest portion of which is turned out at our own factory, will be marked at the lowefit remunerative prices, and a discount of flvo per cent, will bo allowed to those who pay at the time of purchase. Hav ing realised the entire value of tho stock during the late cash sale, tbo present stock is new and VRRY cheaply bought. An inspection Is nvited.—Gaulick and Chan-well, City Hall Furnishing Arcade, Queen-Btreet, Auckland.



THORNTON SMITH, AND FIRTH'S PRICES CURRENT (WHOLESALE) Subjeotto alteration without notice. Sacks. 100's. Ws Crown Brand Flour, £ s. d. & a. d. &s. d. perton 16 0 0 16 10 0 17 0 0 T.S.&F. Canterbury Flour 14 0 0 U 10 0 15 0 0 Sharps, per ton ..800 .. Bran, perton .... 6 0 0 .. .. Fowl Wheat .. .. 4s. Od. per bushel. The above prices tnolude sacks and bagf—sacks and bags not returnable. Terms: Cash. Auckland, 18th November. l_r'