SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

BIIH WATERS 9.28 J UNSKT.-Thta Evening. 7.12. {•.UNRI9R.—To-Morrow Morning. LIB ~ CON'S AGE.-Last Qaartor, 25th, 6,23 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

SATURDAY EVENING. Waitaki, 8.8., Edlo, from Whangarpi Iris, cutter, Hogao, from Mangawai

YFSTBRDAY,

Oamaru, brlgantlno, Short, from Oamaru.

TO-DAY. Looh Fleet, barque, Claobrie, from London Mazeppa, schooner, Armstrong, from Sydney

DEPARTURES.

to-day.

lona, s.s., Stephenson, for Husaoll Waitaki, 5.8., Bdie, for Tauranga Glenelg, 5.8., Farquhar. for lauranga Staffa, 5.8., Baker, for Tauranga

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

London—Wanganui,loading __~_., .. Tauranga-Glenelg, Thuraday; Waitaki, Mon-

day Rußsell—lona, Monday Melbourne, via South-Tararua, Thursday Whangarel and Hußsell-Waitaki, Wednesday New Plymouth and South-Penguin, Tuesday Whangarel—Argyle, Tuesdays and Fridays Waitaki, Friday

IMPORTS.

Per Looh Fleet, from London-Plain cottons, £10 : woollens and worsteds. £10 ; hosiery, £10; haberdashery, £190; apparel. £100: blankets. £1220: carpets and rugs, £300; felt hats and caps, £60; dressed leather, £200; saddlery, £690 ; sewing machineß,£l2oo; agricultural machinery, £690; roils and general machinery, £2760; books, £190 ; paper, 314 ewt.l; stationery, £800 ; paperhangings, £180 ; horse hair and seating, £60: upholstery, £100; iron bedsteads, £30; tinware, £70 ; brushware, £20 ; pianos, £110; olocks and watches, £20; agricultural and garden seeds, £750; safety fuse, £33 ; iron tanks. £6; hardware and cutlery, £H2O: bar aDd rod iron,2tons; plate iron,6 tons; galvanized iron, 16 tonB; sheet lead, 3 tons: tin plates, 120 boxes, ingot tin, 5 owt, ; iron nails, 5 tons; wire and wire rope, 24 tons; zino, 3 tons; varnish, £50; paint colours, £220; glue, 6 owt.; flint glass, £70; foreign window glass, 200 cases; china and earthenware, £300; class bottles, £127; canva?, £140: lines and twines, £72; marble. £10; brandy in bulk, 750 proof gallons; brandy in case, 710 proof gallons; rum, 1210 proof gallons; cordials, 20 gallons; British spirits in bulk, 310 proof gallons: British Bpiritsinca9e,74oproof gal lons ; perfumed spirit,lo gallons; white wine. 220 gallons; beer glass, 121 barrels of 36 gallons each; malt, 33 quarters; preserved fish not rated, £84: assorted oilmen's stores. £318; vinegar, 650 gallons; foreign salad oil, 180 gallons; pepper and spices, 4 cwt.; cocoa, 14 owt.; nuts, 11 owt.: isinglass and gelatine, £o; mustard, £28; starch, £21; rice, 3 cwt ; white Bait, 20 tons; caustic soda, 15 tons:, British end foreign candles, 87 owt.: currants, 23 cwt.; ginger, 10 cwt.; treacle, 50 cwt.; coffoe, 8 cwt.; confectionery and peel. £26; chemicals not deeeribed, 5 cases; apothecary ware, £100; cream of tartar, 5 cwt.; condensed milk, £182; corn flour, £50.—Total declared .value of cargo £17,600.

Per Mazzeppa, from Sydney:—2oo oases kero- Blne, 15 tons -hale, 100 boxes tin plates, 476 bags bone dust, 30 jhhds vinegar, 6 tip drays, _ caseß sewing machines, 10 bales paper bags, 13 cases and packages sundries.

The brigantine Oamaru, from Oamaru, via Tauranga, arrived yesterday morning.

The as. lona, after undergoing an overhaul, resumes her noituern trip to-night.

The sohooner Mazeppa left Sydney on the 9th, and had heavy weather during the earlier part of the passage. Cape Brett was sighted on Saturday, and the Little Barrier yesterday, the harbour being made early thia morning. Pas sengers:—Messrs otodait, Grey, Schultzo, and Grimahaw.

Captain Bogan, of the cutter Iris, Informs us that several days ago a yacht of about H tons bound from Hoklanga to Auckland, attempted to putinto Mangawai for shelter during heavy weather. The bo»t struck the bar and was Bmashßd to pioces. There were two Fgians and a white man aboard, and they succeeded in BWimming to the shore in safety. The names of the men and the yacht wore not known to him.

ARRIVAL OF THE LOCH FLEET. '■ The New Zealand Shipping Company's barque Loch Fleet arrived from London thia forenoon. The capain (Robert Clachrie) reports; Left London on Angust 29, and passed the Start on the 6th of September. Experienced light vaaiable winds and fog in the Channel; orossed the equator on the 6th October; crossed the meridian of Greenwich on the |3rd Novem bsr; and arrived in Auckland, all well, on the 2.th December, The Loch Fleet brings 23 nassengers, children, included, or 18 adults. They all arrive In good health. Passengers :— Steerago — Edward Woodward. Henry Pil ling, James White, Thomas Wilson, Leonard Hadland, Ann Badland, Thomas Alderton. James Kean, William Edwards, Claude H, Lister, Patrick Byrne, Jamea Cooney, Maria Cooney, Ethel Cooney, Arthur Cooney, Francis Cooney, Henry Cooney, Duncan Macpherson, Margaret Maopherson, John Maopherson, James Maopherson, Duncan Meepherson, aud Jessie Maopherson.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Hinemoa, 8.5.. Fairchild, from Wellington Rowena, s s., Amodeo, from Waitara Penguin, s.a., Malcolm, from South

Thefß.s. Penguin left Dunedin on the Mth, Lyttelton Uth. Wellington 16th, Picton same day. Nelson 17th, Taranaki 18th, and arrived yesterday morning. Passengerer-Misses Kdaar, Day, Julean, Newaham, Meadameß Parry, MeKenzle, Wasters Bailey, Williamson, Brett, Murray. Hoffman (2) Messrs H. Gar diner, T. Malcolm, Smith, Barley, Rodgers, Cholwell, Marshall, Watt, Gobb, Muir, MeKenzle, Gordon, Martin (2), Jago. Wallace, -"teerage :-James Gongh, Applegaie. Watte, Foley, Sturgeon, Simpson, Bennett, Urquhart, Miller, Wilson, Welah, Johnson, Ooxhead, Morrißon, Johnßon, Dixon, k Coborne, JBarnble, and a native. The b... Hinemoa which anlved from Wel lington and the Coast on Saturday night, brought the following passengers :-Majors Goring and Campbell, Masters Kolleston (2), Mr and Mrs James, Messrs Dean, and Kdmund. Steerage: Mr Sheppard, two boys for Naval Training Ship and one prisoner belonging to H.M.B. Wolverine.

The s.s. Bowena whioh arrived from Waltara on Saturday brought 20 head cattle and two pas sengers, viz.: Meaßrs Goodfellow and Welsh.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Port Chalmkrs. yesterday. Arrived: Anthons, from Greymouth Sailed: Freetrader, for Hobart Town.

Bluff, thiß day. The Rotomahana arrived at 8 p.m. yeßterday. She sails at 5 p.m. for Dunedin. Passengers- Mr and Mrs Alford, Mlob Alford, MessisPym MoFarlane, Bteadman, Wadby.

THE WEATHER.

AS OBSERVED AT Ti

ILEORAPH STATIONS,

(1.) WIND ESTIMATED AS 0 —Calm I F. Br.—Freah Breeze __.-L.ght St.-Sto.my Br.—Breeze I G.—Gale (2.) ANEROID BAROMETER. (3.) WEATHER ESTIMATED AS j B,—Blue sky, be theat- o.—Overcast,the whole mosphero dear or sky covered with I heavy ' thick clouds I C. — Clouds, passing P.—Pasaing 3howers clouds , Q.-Sqnally D.—Drizzling rain R. — Rain, continued F.-Foggy rain G. — Gloomy, dark 9.—Snow weather T.-Thunder H.—Hail U.— Ugly, threatening L.—Liflhtnlnß appearance

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Star Office, Monday.

Messrs B. Tonka and Co sold to.day at their auction mart, the grand-stand, stalls, stabling, and cards, for the Auckland summer race meet ing The sale was fully attended, lively, and the bidding- spirited. The following snnis were realised:—Grand stand bar, £36, purchaser, J. Smith: lean-to lor back bar), £75, J. Adam.; No 1 booth, £16. F. Archard; No 2 do., _!_8 10s, J Gillander: No. 3, £35. S. Anderson: No. ~ iV>& V. Archard: card". £10210s, Wm. Ad«m_.; fruit stalls, £14, P. Doran; stabling, £10 ss, P. McGinn.

THAMES CATTLE MARKET.

BANKS AND CO.'S WEEKLY REPORT,

December 16.

At the Parawai Yards on Thursday we offered our first consignment for tho season of overland cattle being from Messrs Gould Bros.' station. Waitoa. and for quality they fully maintained the reputation of the district. The sheep pens wore attain mainly supplied hy onr local grazier, Mr Alley; weights and quality very suitable for the season. Lamb 3 were plentiful with a rather alow market. We quote prime be»f, 2os ncr lOOlbs • mixed sexes and moderate weights, 10a 6d to 11a 63. Lambs, from 10s 3d to lie. A small lot. stood sample, of oats, realised 2s 6d per bushel.

Lovers ot " line old cognac ' will (observes the "Ballarat Star") find little comiort in the declaration made by Mr Henry Stevenson in his lecture that the ingredients of the spirit named are sugar from beet, vegetable naphtha, and sweet spirits of nitre.

"Why is it," says a bore to a friend "that you call on me and never invite me to call on you ?" Well, you see," replies the other, "It is because when I go to your house and you bore me, I can take my hat and go ; whereas, if I invited you to my bouse, and you bored me, I couldn't very well put you <>ut, you know." As will he seen by announcement we are to have " Stoien Kisses " again. A certain young lady, on being made acquainted with the fact by an admirer, and lovingly asked If she ever gave kisses, playfully replied, "No. They.are nearly all taken by stealth," '

•W £1 Free Gifts!— The Proprietors of Wolfe's Aromatic Schirdam Scbnapps, to induce the destruction and prevent the im proper use of their wrappors and labala, and thus further protect the Pnblio against fraud and deception, have enclosed in the wrappers, or under the label on tho quart bottles, alnoe Ist October. 1878, and continue toenoloso in every DAY'S PICKING THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, THREE £1 ORDERS, which are drawn upon the undersigned, and which will be cashed by them on presentation. To secure these Gifts, the Publio must be careful to ask for, and accept nothing but, the Genuine Udolpho Wolfe's Schnapps, with our name upon the top label, M. Moss & Co., Wynyard Lane, Sydney.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

, Mails will Closk as Under i— This Day. For Russell, Kawakawa, Wangaroa, and Mongonui, per lona. at I p.m. For Tauranga and Opotiki, per Waitaki, at i 4 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. For Russell and Kawakawa, per Kingarooma, at 5 p.m. Tuesday, 21st instant. For Taranaki and Southern ports, per Penguin, at 85a.m. For waiwera, Kawau, Omaha, and Matakana, per Hose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Hokianga, per Rowena, at 11 a.m. For Talrua, Der Mercury, at 1 p.m, For Rotumah, por Belle Brandon, at 2 p.m. For Thameß, per Rotomahana, at 2 p.m. For Wangarel Heads, Walpn, Wangarel. and Mangapai, per Argyle, at 4 p.m. Thursday, 23rd instant. For Gisborne, Napier, Southern porta, and Aus tralian Colonies, per Ringarooma, at 9 a.m. For Coromandel, per Coromandel, at 2.30 p.m, Tuesday, 4th January, 1881. Per 8.8. City of Sydney as follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United States ot America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, 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 newspapers, 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.

This mail will bo due in London on Tuesday, February 15, 1881.

ROBT. KAYE, Acting Chief Postmaster.

Meetings. Entertainments, &c.

December 20, 1880. Choral Hall—Mr Proctor's lecture on "Star Depths," 8 p.m.

Sunday school Union—Teachers' Meefcing.Pitt- Btreet, 6.30 p.m.

Devonport Hall—Musical and Dramatio Enter tainment in aid of the North Shore Bowing Club fond, 7.30 p.m.

St. James'- Hall—Gospel Address by Mrs Hampaon, 7.30 p.m.

BIRTH.

KUMMER.-On Deoember 19th, the wife of F. G. H. Kummer, of a Bon, O'CALLAGHAN.-On 18th instant, at Princes- Btreet, Onehunga, Mrs William O'Callaghan, of a son.

DEATH.

WHITEHEAD.-On December IBth, at Nowton, Beatrice, infant daughter of W. H. and E. A. Whitehead.

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

MONDAY. DECEMBER 20, 1880.

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

Latest cable advices report that the Kuldja difficulty is in a fair way of amicable settlement. The negotiations between the Russian Minister at Pekin and the Chinese Government have assumed a peaceful phase, and it is hoped that an amicable solution of tho disagreement will be arranged. If this happy result be brought about it will justify the famous ,'saying of Washington that "to be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace." Some months ago a struggle on a grand scale was impending between Russia and China, but attention was diverted from the question by the more imminent danger of a disturbance of the peace of Europe, arising out of the Dulcigno difficulty. The settlement of that matter has left Russia free to deal un trammeled with her Asian neighbour, and to concentrate her naval forces for an attack on the Chinese coasts. Russia's naval and military preparations clearly indicate that her design^'was not to undertake aa ex pensive, difficult, and prospectively pro longed war against hordes of Tartars in the Valley of the Amoor, but to strike at the weak points of China along her ex tensive seaboard, and at the very heart of the empire in tho Gulf of Pe-che-lee. Pekin is vulnerable to any great naval power, and 11 its fall would demoralise the empire, fan the i

smouldering llamea o£ rebellion, and render the Emperor's throne insecure. The Chinese, as a people, are slow to realise the military power ol civilized nations. They live ou the traditions of the past. They mould their oocial and political in stitutions on the domestic maxims of Confucius. Thoy are unprogressive and lethargic. Scientific inventions which the ) western nations regard as aids to comfort and a means of saving the wear and tear of. life the " Children of the Sun" look upon with contemptuous indifference. Their forte! lies in patient ingenuity and imitativenas which has become hereditai'y, but they have none of the vigor aud inassivcness of the Anglo-Saxon intellect. They merely tolerate railways, and light shy of the telegraph. Inventions which originated in China have remained stationary in that vast empire, whilo the Western nations havo developed them with marvellous rapidity and skill in practical adaptation. Nations cannot remain stationary, tliey J must cither progress or decay ; aud China's present condition is that of demoralisation and decadence. The Duke of Genoa ascended the Yantzand witnessd ft military review on v rainy day at Woosung, when he observed that though all the soldiers were' not armed with guns, every one was equipped with an um brella, which tho duko thought would be more useful than firearms, and quite as formidable in their Lands. A large portion of the Chinese army is only fur-' nished with spears ; they have a few swift cruisers constructed in England, aftd armed with British artillery, but manned by j untrained seamen who would bo helpless before tho disciplined forces and science of Russia, The Duke says in his report, " The . vast empire, through a multitude of causes, has now readied a pitch of decadeuce and want of cohesion never reached beforo by tha most corrupt of nations." The special correspondeni, of the Loudon "Times," in a rcceut letter, writes :—" China will bo at Russia's morcy the moment Russia chooses to strike from the sea in the vicinity ot tho capital"; and adds, "if we imagine that the China of to-day is a whit more warlike in spirit or iv resources than the China of twenty years ago, wo deceive ourselves. Moreover, Colonel Gordon, or " Chinese Gordon " ns ho is more commonly called, alter a careful examination of her naval and military resources, disuaded tho Chinoso Government from war, and having thus incurred unpopularity, returned to England. At last advices the Grand Council was deliberating as to the course to be pursued with regard to the Kuldja question, and probably the alteration in the tono of the Government towards Russia is tho result of a perception of the hopelessness of a struggle with that Power.

The colonial agitation for reduction of the Unite J States import duty ou wool,in which the Auckland Chamber of Commerce joined the Australian chambers, is being mot by a counter movement ou the part of Americau wool growers. With the protectionist ten dencies of tho country there cau be very little doubt which party will prevail. Wool growers in the United States who pay heavily for the protection of other indus tries may very reasonably urge that their business should not be specially precluded from participation in the benefits of State Protection. The following interesting facts regarding the wool industry of America are from Messrs Read aud Pells' Report ou Agriculture in the United States :—" There does not appear much reason to suppose that America will for somo years to come export wool to any great extent. At the present time a considerable amount ia being imported from England aud her colonies ; and if tho manufacture of woollon goods in tho States continues to progress there is not much chance of their supply of home-grown wool meeting the increased demand. The duty on foreign unwashed wool is 12c. por lb. and 10 to 11 per cent ad valerem in addition ; on scoured wool the duty is three times this amount. The farmers of Ohio have recently petitioned that these duties may be maintained as a proper protection to the growers of American wool, and this opinion seems general among tlie sheep farmers of tho United States. The price of half-bred merino wool, such as is grown in California, has been during the summer as low as 20c. per lb. ; iv December it advanced to 40c. Common coarse Americau wool was sold in June last at and under 10c. per lb.; at the close of the year, prices ranged in the Eastern cities from 23c. to 30c. Cape wool iv December was sold at 30c., aud Australian at 42c. per lb. It will, therefore, be seen that wnol, like cheese and other produce of American soil, took a tremendous upward bound in the fall of 1579, and it was this advance in pricos and the consequeut demand for wool in America, which caused the revival of tho wool trade in this country."

Putchasers of Brett's Auckland Almanac and Provincial Handbook should be careful to get a map with each copy. Tho map is issued gratis with the book, and any copies sold separately are so disposed of without authority from tne publisher.

A correspondent complains that he received a notice of assessment under the Property Tax Act iv an unsealed envelope. He says the boasted secrecy of the Depart ment is questionable when the private affairs of people are thus exposed.

To the Editor : Sir,—Can you inform the public how the unclaimed dogs will be destroyed by the police next January.—l am, etc., Humanitt. [Probably poisoned as heretofore.]

The s.s. Hinemoa, which arrived in the Manukau on Saturday, brought up a deserter from H.M.S. Wolverine, and two boys committed to the training ship. On her way up she landed the witnesses who had been engaged on the prosecution of

Tuhi, the murderer of Miss Uooie, Mr Blackett, Engineer-in-chief, was also a passenger to inspect the Cape Egmont light-

house,

It would appear as if the Saturday after noon holiday iB gradually developing into a recognized public institution. Employers of labour tacitly acknowledge the fact by shutting up shop, while those who remain open feel that they are doing so in resistance to a steadily increasing disposition in the other direction. Troops of people find their way to the Domain, large numbers flock to the wharf for conveyance to the various strawberry gardens "across the water," and a very fair proportion extend their patronage to the railway. The crowds of pleasure-seekers and excursionists which passed along Queen-street from midday till 2 o'clock lent the city quite a gala aspect, and excited the envy of many a one for whom the hours of labour extend tar into the night.

Our Whangaroa correspondent writes on Friday:—" Yesterday our shipping in har hour was gaily decorated with flags, also the Auckland Timber Company's mill, and there was a large party in the school-house in honour of the marriage of Mr Henry Clark and Miss Agnes Reed. Notices are posted up calling a monster meeting of the electors of this riding to wrench their rights from the County Council. The Councillors are invited to attend. Some big talk is anticipated, aud an appeal to headquarters for redress."

Tbe open sailing boats sweepstakes sail ing race on Saturday afternoon resulted in a victory for the Hattie May, with the Witch second, Patriot third, and Eunice fourth. The Hattie May was considerably behind when the North Head was rounded on the way back, but she soon went to tho front. Sbe worked up the middle of the harbour, and had the advantage of tbe flood tide, while the Eunice, Comet, and Patriot mado a long board over on the south shore. The Witch and the Hattie May had a close race for first place, but eventually the latter boat asserted her superiority. Off the Queen-street wharf the Patriot jammed the Eunice into the wharf, and the third prize was awarded to the Eunice, on the ground that the other boat should have given way for her. When the Whip was rounding the Martha, a strong puff struck her while the crew were in the act of shifting the boom to jibe. She filled and sank, and the men on board were rescu cd by a boat from the Martha. No blame ia attributable to the crew on the boat, tho occurrence being purely accidental.

The death is announced of Mrs Ward, widow of the late Rev. Robert Ward, at Wellington. The rev. gentleman and Mrs Ward arrived at New Plymouth by the ship Raymond in 1844. Mr Ward claimed to be the first missionary that crossed the lino, and he was, we believe, certainly the first Primitive Methodist clergyman in Auckland. He obtained the grant of laud on which the Alexandra-street Church stands, and he was one of the most active and zealous workers in the cause of Christianity. At a time when a large military force was stationed in the Albert Barracks the rev. gentleman ! gave much of his time to ministrations amongst the soldiers, and he was universally esteemed and respected by all classes of the community. In the performance of his duties as a Christian pastor he was ably and zealously assisted by Mrs Ward. They leave a numerous family, all of whom are in comfortable and useful circumstances. One of the sons is District Judge in the Manawatu, another is engaged on the literary staff of the "Sydney Morning Herald," two others are Methodist clergy men, and others are in the Civil Service of the colony,

The Board of Education will meet at 2 p.m. on Wednesday next. >

The New Zealand War Medal Commission has awarded medals to the following :—J. Gage, J. Goff, R. H. Harrison, H. John stone, W. Rykers, H, L. Williams, and A. J. Fisher,

Certain lands *_.t Hamilton, Waitemata, and Puuiu ftre reserved from sale by procla mation ttnder "The Land Act, 1877" for the protection of the banks of the Waikato River, and for plantations; also lands at Takapuna for a recreation ground and a school site, lands at Mahurangi, Kirikiriroa, Tauranga, Opotiki, and Kawakawa, for school sites, recreation, plantations, police purposes, and native purposes.

Rev. J. S. Hill preached to a large congregation at St k Paul's last evening. He afterwards delivered a valedictory address in the roomS of the Young Men's Christian Association. To-day Mr Hill left for Tau ranga en route to the Lake country.

Tlie Auckland School Committee and some of the principal teachers attempted last week to arrange for Mr Proctor to give a juvenile lecture entertainment on Thurs day atternoon in the Cboral Hall ; but up to the present nothing baa been fixed, the holidays apparently forming an obstacle. The management, therefore, announce that children will be admitted to the Proctor lectures at half price. In the Gairison Hall, Dunedin, 2,600 children attended the juvenile lecture.

The subject of tho Rev. A. W. Webb's discourse at tho Baptist Chapel, Wellesley street, last evening was from the first Epistle of John, Chap. 3, verse 14, "'From death unto Life," and in the course of his romaiks dwelt on Mr Proctor's lecturo on " The Moon." Referring to the statement that tho moon is a dead planet tho Rev, gentleman said, might not such a death be likened to the fall of autumn] leaves, which wither and rot only to usher in the new life and beauties of spring. Ho also compared the spiritual death of man while iv a state ot sin to the condition of the dead pluuot.

To tho Editor : Sir,—lf Mr Proctor wishes his visit to the colonies remembered with such memories as should attach to the name of a clevei man who, iv his day, played a. useful part, he should throw open his lectures to the Working men for one or two occasions, nt n charge of, pay a shilling for nn adult nnd sixpence to children. lam quite sure Mr Proctor's visit is not meant only as a pound, ..hilliug, and ponce ex pedition, ho I trust he will sow as he would wish to reap.—Yours, &c, Veeh Sap.

Complaints have reached us as to the conduct ot a party of respectably-dressed larrikins who have been causing great annoyance to ladies and children recreating on the Wynyard pier in the evenings. A few evenings ago two ladies and a child were enjoying a stroll in that neighbour hood, when two young men who were con cealed behind wood ou the wharf squirted from a syringe a quantity of somo noisome fluid over their dresses. The women, who were quite unprotected, and completely at

the mercy of their cowardly assailants, retreated along the pier, but were pursued aud subjected to further annoyance and insult. Perhaps Mr Superintendent Thom son will be able to give a good accouut of theso blackguards should they repeat the conduct complained of.

The studenta of the Wellesley-street Training Class for Teachers, took the opportunity on Saturday morning, on the occasion of the last meeting ot tho class for this year, ot presenting to Mr 11. Worthiu tou who now retires from tho post of Principal, a very handsome and valuable silver salver as a token of their estimation of his energy and interest in tho well being of the class. The salver was purchased from Mr 11. Kolin. It has been placed lv the window of Messrs Upton and Co., and bears the following iiiscripton :—"Presented to Henry Worthington, Esq., hy the Members of tho Auckland Training Class, on the occasion of his retiring from the post of Principal. December 18th, 1880." To tho Editor: Sir,—As tho report np pearing in Saturday'sJStar makes no dis. tinctiou between the two schools, St. Peter's and St. Patrick's, permit mo to state that it was only tin; boys attending the former school, conducted hy Mr Cronin, that were examined in Geometry, Mensura tion, and Grammar. I am, &c.,—GIVE to EVERY MAN HIS DUE.

Mr C. N. McMurdo, who has determined

to commence the practice of medicine and surgery at Rarotonga, has gone North, to bid farewell to hia numerous friends, and lie will shortly proceed to tbe sphere of hia future labours, ftlr McMurdo has received a number of testimonials from medical men and oilier?, speaking in tho highest of terms of his proficiency aud skill in the profes sion. One of theso testimonials is by Dr. Philson, who refers to Mr McMurdo's former experience in St. George's Hospital, London, aud to his having been engaged in the practice of the healing art fur a long time iv this colony, ur. Philson also bears testi mony to hia diligent attendance in the Auckland hospital, where he has evinced a correct knowledge of the healing art, and acquaintance with the principlesaud practice of medicine, not to speak of his zeal for the «ood of the sick. "It may be said of you," adds Dr. Philson, "that you are a physician by nature." "Mcdicus nascitur non fit." Coming from such a high authority as Dr. Philson, this testimonial is a proof of Mr McMurdo's eminent fitness for the profes sion to which he is now devoting his talents.

St. Luke's Presbyterian bazaar closed on

Saturday night, upwarda of £80 being re ceived on Saturday evening, making tho

total proceeds about £145. It is expected that the funds raised from this source, and from lectures, will be sufficient to defray

the cost of the improvements now being carried out, which are estimated to amount to £200, The remainder of the articles will be disposed of on the art union principle at tho N ewmarket Hall on Wednesday even ins'. The committee, and especially the ladies of the congregation, deserve much praise for the energy and liberality shown by them iv providing means of rendering the Church suitable for the existing re quirements. On Friday last, the usual annual distribu tion of prizes by the Auckland Scripture Gift Association took place at the Onehunga public school. Eighty-six interesting prize books were awarded to the samo number of competitors, who had fulfilled tho various Scripture exercises required, and attained the standard maiks. The Rev. T. Hamcr presided on the occasion, and addressed a few well suited Words to the scholars, as also did the Rev. J. Law, after which the books were handed to tho recipients in turn by Mra Hamer and Mrs Mulgan. The pre sence of several parents and visitors exhi bited an interest in the proceedings, which also were considerably enlivened by the singing of selected hymns relating to the value and importance of tho Sacred Word by the children. The distribution of prizes at the Mangare school, by tbe above Asso ciation, takes place this afternoon.

The announcement that Mrs Hampson, recently from England, would open an evangelistic mission at St James' Hall last night had the effect of drawing together a very large audienco. At eight o'clock, the hall Was densely packed, the aisles and ante-room were crowded with people standing, aud many went away unable to gain admittance. The lady came on to the platform punctually to the time. She is stout in figure and with an intellectual face and head. The service was opened with prayer by the Rev Mr Taylor and Mr Parker, and three hymns from Moody and Sankey's collection were sung with great effect by the large concourse. Mra Hampson also read a chapter from the New Testament with much elocutionary effect. Her subse quent discourse was founded on St. Luke, Chapter 19., verse 10. "For the Son of man is come to seek and save that which was lost." Mrs Hatupson begged her congregation to forget a. much as possible, that their speaker was but a weak woman, but not to forget that her message was from Uod ; and gave illustratiou from scripture of women who had been ministering servants :of Christ, The address was full of feeling, pathos, exposition, appeal, occasionally lit with dramatic power and fervid eloquence. A good many of the hearers were moved with tears by tbe earnest appeals of the speaker, who, herself, manifested signs of emotion. An after meeting was held tor the benefit of inquirers. The mission will be continued this evening, to-morrow, Wednesday, and Thursday, at half-paat seven, and prayer-meetings are held each m orning at seven o'clock.

I Mr Blwin B. Dickron furnishes the fol . lowing weather report for the week ending . Saturday morning, 18th December, 1880 :— i Weather variable from bright to cloudy, [ fresh wind, little rain, temperature slightly i below average, barometer the same. Baro ; meter lowest on Sunday afternoon, 29 635 ; highest on Tuesday night, 29 992: since then rising and failing, but with general upward tendency ; mean reading, 29856. Hottest day, Friday—giving 76 6 in shade and 849 in sun; hottest night, Sunday, 669; coolest day Saturday, 64-9 (with wind and rain); and night Monday, 49-2. Approx imate mean, 643—0r about 1| degrees be low December average. Rainfall, little more than half-an-inch j(o's4s)—of which four fifths (0515) fell on Saturday afternoon and I night and early Sunday morning; with ! st.roug N. winds, giving a rate of over 21 miles per hour, with actual rate.of 35 miles at 9 a.m. on Sunday—then dropping as it shifted to N.W. and W. Much clouds throughout the week, occasionally very, blight and hot,

It ia notified ia the "Gazette" that the resignation of J. B. Russell, Esq,, as a member ot the Auckland Domain Board, haa been accepted by his Excellency tbe Governor. A proclamation in a New Zealand Gazette of the 9th defines the boundaries of the land set apart for a special settlement to be formed by Messrs Grant and Foster.

The estates of the following deceased per sons have been placed under the charge of the public tiustee: W. R. H. Balsdon and J. Hairod, both of Auckland.

An Order-in-Council delegates to the Tauranga Domain Board the powers exer cised by his Excellency the Governor under the Public Domains Act. 1860. An extraordinary meeting of the Pride of Tokatea Gold Mining Company was held to-day, in the office of Mr Robert Home, for ithe purpose of authorising the disposal of forfeited shares. Dr. Lee (Chairman) stated the object of the meeting, which was to act in terms of clause 6, of the Mining Companies' Act, 1869. Dr. Lee then moved, and Mr Morpeth seconded, That the directors be and are hereby authorised to dispose of all, or any, forfeited shares for the common benefit of the company in such a manner as they may think fit. The motion was carried unanimously. A vote of thanks to the Chairman concluded the business.

A special general meeting of Lodge " Reliance" Loyal United Friends, will bo hold to-morrow evening in tho Newton Masonic Hall. The Pitt-street Weslevan Sunday-school Industrial Exhibition will be opened on Wednes day, tho 22nd inst., in the Lome-street Hall, oy Rev. V'm. Morley.

Tho Grand Catholic Bazaar will be opened to-morrow, in the Albert Hall, Darby street, at 3 o'olock, and whioh, It report bo true, will put into the shade the majority of bazaara of the past by the great variety and beauty of ita fancy and useful articles. Messrs B. Touk's and Co. will offer for salo to-morrow at their auction mart, 1000 volumes of books suitable for Christmas presents, Importod by the publisher-, Janies Blackwood and Co. The sale will commence at 11 o'olock.

There will bo a select social and literary entertainment in the Wesleyan Chapol. New .iorth Road, this (Monday) evening, at half paßt 7 o'clook. Hoaaings, recitations, and singing.

The secretary of the Young Women's Institute lnvitoi those who have undertaken to work for tho Christmas Tree to send in their contributions as soon as possible.

Professor Erasor will be in town from to day until January Ist, when he will leave on a tour In tho North. Ills visit to tho control of papulation in the Waikato has been attended v. Ith suocess.

We beg to draw special attention to tho B»lo of fancy goods by Mr G. Lowis to-morrow at 11 o'clook. The goods are all very oholep and uniuuo, and to anyorio doslrous of making a Ch.lStmaa or Now Year's gift, an excellent opportunity now ocours. 'Iho diamonds, jew eliy. and watches, aro all flrst-class, and by woll-known makers.

The monthly inspection of the Victoria Rlllea and tho HobßOn Corps will take placo In tho Drillshod to-morrow (Tuesday) evening at 7,30. It la requoated that all members will attend In full dress, which Ib necessary in order that members may ensure tho payment of capitation. Absence of members ot tho Hob son Corpa will be takon as resignation ot mem bership.

Mr P. Doran has been appointed manager of the fanoy store of Christmas novelties on the nremisoa near tho Albert Hotel, recently occupied by Mr Schwartzo, and, as tho engage ment dooa not extond beyoad Ohrtatmni. Mr lloran will bo glad to see as many of his old friends as can possibly make it convenient to call at the storo. Mr Doran has also ieourod the privilege of selling fruit at tho forthcoming race meeting.

A musical and Dramatic Entertainment will be givon in tho Devonport Hall thia evening in aid of tho North Shore Club. The Club Ib incurring considerable expense in procuring a raoing gig from Sydney, to compete in the approaching Kogatta, bo we hopo to Bee a bumper house. Mra, Revltt, Mr udmlsion. and several leading amateurs havo kindly given their services, so that a most onjoyable evening may bo anticipated. The boat leaves Auckland at 8 p.m., roturning at 10*30.

The teachers and friends of the Welles ley-stroot Baptist Sundny-sohool announce thoir annual Christmas Tree entertainment tomorrow evening in tho Temperance Hall. Besides tho Interoßt afforded by the fine Albort troe. there will bo an excellent programme of music, melodioa, poetry, and reading, with tho viow of gratifying overy taste.

Scintillations.

"Bo brlof; fcr it is w t,n words as with sun beams: the more thoy are condensed, the deoper thoy burn."—Soutiiey.

Female larrikins are giving trouble at Shortland. A man named Lake has been killed by an explosion at Mosgeil, Otago. A prisoner named Edwards, who rescued a girl from drowning at Port Chalmers, has received a pardon. Tho Mayoral election at Hokitika has been declared void, through a defect in pre paring tho burgess roll. The creditors of Wymond, of Nelson, have seized a quantity of the firm's goods shipped to Lyttelton. Captain Dillon, of the s.s. Kennedy, died at tho Buller on Saturday. iho annual Wesleyan Conference will be held at Nelson at the 21st of January. Tho "Thames Star" advocates the for mation of a company with a capital of £4000 to develop the iron deposit* at Tararu.

Ton thousaud tons ot stone were brought down by a blast ot 30011bs. of powder at Grevmouth on Saturday. A pigeongram from Te Aroha reports that Mr H. Lloyd has discovered a quartz reef a few miles from tho Waiwera Hot Springs. A parcel of tho stone has been sent to the Thames to be tested.

Mr G. A. Brown delivered a discourse on Spiritualism at the Temperance Hall last eveuiug, and in the course ot his remarks said Her Majesty the Queen was a believer in Spiritualism. At Beresford-street Chuich last evening Rev. J. Robertson recommended Mr Proctor's lectures, and commented on the fact that while people complained of bad times the circus should have carried away a large sum of money.

At Garrard's spouting entertainment on Friday evening Inst at the Temperance Hall, one of his ardent admirers remarked taut the "gas" was too low, to [which an opposition member laconically replied, " Don't turn it on; wo shall have plenty of it when the old cockatoo gets up." The old man is still confident ot being member for City West, and is studying Billingsgate glang for tho occasion.

The How over Tole's Land.

[BY TELEGRAMI, OWN CORRESPONDENT.]

TE AWAMUTU. Te Poke, who is reported to be sorr.cwhat furious at the shortcomings of his missus, has, it is said, appointed tbis afternoon for the purpose of burning down tho house recently erected by the Messrs Tole on their property. Kihikini is interested in the result.

Our Wellington Telegrams.

[BY TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRESPONDENT],

THE ROTORUA TOWNSHIP.

WELLINGTON, this day. i The " Post" on Saturday night in refer i ence to the new Government township i and sanatorium at Rotorua, a subject i which |is creating great interest in Wellington, says it is a curious coinci dence that within a day or two after - tho' decision of the Government to establish a regular township at Lake Roto > rua had been publicly announced and the numerous advantages likely to accrue from ; it had been set forth in its columns, it should have received such strong corroborative testimony as that contained in a letter from : a well-known Wellington citizen published iv its issue. The writer shows with the utmost clearness that had he or his medical attendants in New Zealand been aware of the fact that he could have obtained in this colony all the benefit he has since derived at the heavy expenses of a tour to Europe, he could have enjoyed all theso advantages at less than one tenth of the cost, to say nothingof the serious personal inconvenience and loss of time involved in a visit to Europe by a stay of a few weeks at Rotorua. He tells ua that after incurring all the expense, loss, trouble, inconvenience, and discomfort of a journey to the European continent, he now finds that he has travelled some 15,000 miles only to reach mineral springs, similar in their character and therapeutic properties to those which exist at Lake Rotorua, within a few days journey. It is to be hoped that many suflorers will profit by his experience, aud that the Government will use all possible naste in pushing on the opening of the new township and sanatorium, the benefit of which Mr Garrard's letter comes in so opportunely to demonstrate. There is one important point, however, which must not be overlooked, necessary as it is to provide easy means of access to tbe Rotorua Spa, and accommodation both cheap and com fortable :it is not less essential that the attendance of a competent medical practitioner should be secured, who will devote himself to tho study of springs and their various properties, and whose profes sional standing should be such as would command confidence both in this colony and outside : it will be quite indispensable to the success of the spa that patients visiting it shall be assured of recovering capable medical treatment, and of being instructed how to derive the moat benefit of the remedial agents so largely provided there by the beneficence of nature, "■

CABLEGRAMS.

EUROPEIAN.

[BIKUTBE'S fc____E(JBASIS.]

THE PARNELL DEFENCE,

LONDON, December 17. ONE thousand pounds has been subscribed for the defence of Mr Parnell and the other Land Leaguers to be tried in Dublin.

THANKS TO ADMIRAL SEYMOUR.

LONDON, December 17.

Tbe Government has thanked Admiral Seymour for the manner in which he con ducted the movements of the combined fleets when engaged in the demonstration against Turkey for delivering up Dulcigno to Montenegro,

ARREST OF NIHILISTS,

ST. PETERSBURG, December 13,

Four hundred students have been arrested at Moscow on suspicion of being connected with Nihilism,

DUTCH ARCTIC EXPEDITION

AMSTERDAM, December 17.

The Dutch Government aro making preparations for sending out an Arctic expedition.

THE GREEK FRONTIER QUESTION,

ATHENS, December 17,

Greece has declined to negotiate with Turkey, and England has proposed that the difficulties between the two countries be, settled by arbitration on the part of the Great Powers, KNIGHTHOOD. LONDON, December 17. It is announced that Messrs Watson and Hughes will be knighted.

COMMERCIAL,

LONDON, December 17. The total quantity of wheat afloat for the United Kingdom is 2,000,000 quarters. The best Australian beef tallow is 33s 6d ; be3t mutton tallow, 365. Best Sydney copra, £16

Best Australian leather, lid

THE TROOPS FOR IRELAND, LONDON, December 7th,

Thero was a grand demonstration at the departure of the hrst Battalion of the Cold stream Guards, from London, for servico in Ireland. The authorities in Ireland have demanded more troops.

IMPENDING ARREST OF PARNELL

Mr Parnell, and other Irish members of Parliament, against whom proceedings have been instituted, will attend Parliament and ignore their trials. They will be arrested In tho lobby of the house.

MASSACRE BY KHUED»'. The Khurds in Persia havo massacred 800 pilgrims.

CRETE TO BE CEDED TO GERMANY.

LONDON, December 9,

It is rumoured that the Porto is inclined to cede the island of Crete to Germany on tho same terms thnt Cyprus was ceded to England.

BARONESS BURDETT-COUTTS' MAR.

RIAGE ABANDONED,

It is stated that the marriage of the Bar. oness Burdett-Coutts with Ashmead Bart' lett has been abandoned.

SALE OE ARMS IN IRELAND,

The antagonism of Orangemen in Ireland towards tho supporters of the Land League increases. A largo importation of arms continues to be made, and one Dublin dealer admits selling 200 revolvers in a week. MURDER OF AN IRISHMAN. An Irishman has been murdered in Bir mingham for announcing secession from the Irish League. The murderer escaped. THE TERRORISM BY THE LEAGUE. LONDON, December 11. The insurrectionary movement is extend ing amongst the peasantry. Land League Courts are decreeing punishment against persons failing to subscribe to the League, trading with adherents of the Boycottcs, paying above Griffiths' valuation, or in any way violating the rules of the League. AN IRISH JUDGE THREATENED. Justice Fitzgerald, one ot the judges on the Irish Bench, haa been threatened. There is increasing public dissatisfaction against the Government. THE "TIMES" ON THE SITUA TION.

LONDON, December 13.

Tho " Times " declares that the condition ot Ireland is such as to require the Execu tive to assume coercive powers, and asking subsequently for indemnity. There is no time, the leading journal urges, to wait for legislation. There has been a great subsidence of land sales in the districts of Cheshire.

AUSTRALIAN.

CALL OF VICTORIAN ASSEMBLY, MELBOURNE, Monday.

The Government has decided to make a call of tho Ilouse for January 18, on the second reading of tho Reform Bill in the Assembly. SOUTH AUSTRALIAN PARLIA MENT. MELBOURNE, Monday. The South Australian Parliament meets on the 4th of January. FALSE INVOICES. MELBOURNE, December 19. The Commissioner of Trade and Customs has lined a merchant £1500 for (passing false invoices, being below the half of tho goods represented. WHEAT MARKET. In the Adelaide telegram dated December 17, for new wheat 3s sd, read 4s sd; for freights to London, sailing, 595, read 455.

Sporting.

A.R.C. SUMMER MEETING ENTRIES,

Publicans' Purse. -- Farmer's Para mena, Lance's Foul Play, Smith's Maid of Honour, McDonald's Edward James, Walters' Billingsgate.

Selling Rack.— Darrow's Ratcatcher, £100,' Bates' Hilda, £200, Farmer's Paramena, £100, Vallance's ' Lara, McDonald's Edward Jaraea, £100, W. Walters' Billingsgate, W. Walters' by Hippocampus, dam Slander.

TATTERSALL'S BETTING QUOTA TIONS.

The following are the betting quotations issued by Tattersalls on Saturday night :— Auckland Cup.—Le Loup, 100 to 10, offered; Ariel, 100 to 7, offered; Lara, 100 ti 25, offered; Grand Duchess, 100 to 8, offered; Vampire, 100 to 3 offered ; Rewi, 100 to 3, offered; Badsworth, 100 to 1, offered; Tim Whiffler, 100 tol, offered ; Lone Hand, 100 to 5, oflered; Rosarina, 100 to 5, offered; Libeller, 100 to 8, offered ; Foul Play, 100 to 50, offered; Betrayer, 100 to 40, offered ; Maid of Honour, 100 to 7, offered; King Quail, 100 to 10, offered; Gilderoy, 100 to 1, offered; Kenilworth, 100 to 5, offered; Yatapa, 100 to 7, offered; Ada mant, 100 to 4, offered; Matana, 100 to 1, offered; Golden Crown, 100 to 1, offered.

Steeplechase.—Lone Hand, 100 to 50, offered; Agent, 100 to 50, offered; Mig nonette, 100 to 10 offered ; Sportsman, 100 to 25, offered ; Don Juan, 100 to 10, offered; Jack Sheppard, 100 to 10 offered; Gboat, 100 to 10, offered.

DUNEDIN, Saturday,

D.J.C. ACCEPTANCES.

J.C. Handicap.—Sylvanus, Titania, The Governor, Hornby, Mischief, Le Loup, Volunteer, Randwick, Longlands, (Sir Modred, Hilarious, Lady Emma, Foul Play, Natator, Grip, Virginia Water, Luna.

Publicans' Handicap.—Sylvanus. Van. duara, The Governor, Luna, Randwick, Libeller, Sir Modred, Hilarious, Lady Emma, Natator, On Dit, Virginia Water, Adamant, Nautilus.

Dunedin Cup.—Titania, Sylvanus, Ada mant, King Quail, Hornby, Fishhook, The Governor, Mischief, Le Loup, Luna, Volun. teer, Randwick, Ariel, Norseman, Miss Domett, Longlands, Sir Modred, Hilarious, Lady Emma, Grip, On Dit,Virgiuia Water.

Sir Hercules Robinson has purchased seven mares in England for stud purposes in this colony. They have been selected from the celebrated Middle Park stud, and five of them aro in foal to well-known sires.

TE AROHA GOLDFIELDS.

IfROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDEHT.]

December 18, 1880; THE BONANZA.

The Bonanza btoke down a pottioh of their leader yesterday morning, and had the satisfaction of seeing gold shewing strong in the quartz. At the junction of this vein with the big reef something good may be looked for,

A Warden's Court was held yesterday and several cases disposed of. The most impor tant was that In which the Te Aroha No. 1 * South were concerned. This company had { originally overlapped Christie and party, ' aud taken then into their company. It j was afterwards, however, discovered that ' the Te Aroha No. 1 South occupied more - ground than the law allowed, and ] also that they bad not manned their ' ground as fully as required by the Act. ' Christie and party have consequently applied for the ground they pegged out on the opening day—the warden, after com. menting somewhat Btrongly on the occupation of large areas, and not manning the same, stated his determination to discountenance anything in the shape of monopoly, shepherding, &c, and awarded Christie and party the ground applied for. REPORTED GOLD DISCOVERY AT PATETERE. A report has reached here that a party of prospectors have discovered a rich reef in the Patetere Block, some 25 miles distant from this field. Further information vilt Cambridge is expected on Monday. A coach left this morning at daybreak for Hamilton, passengers being thus enabled to catch the mid-day train at Hamilton and go right through to Auckland in one day. They coach fare (owing to opposition) has been reduced from fifteen shillings to seven shillings and sixpence, but even with this great reduction the railway fare makes the cost ot travelling dearer than via Thames, the fare to Ihe Thames being ten shillings, and second class per Rotomahana five shillings, Total, fifteen shillings by steamer from Te Aroha to Auckland. PRICE OF PROVISIONS. Considering the cost of freight, provisions at Te Aroha are very cheap. The beat tea is sold at 2s 9d; jams, lOd; sugar, s|d ; bread, sd; beef, Cd ; Butter (fresh), from Ib to Is 2d; and milk, 3d per pint. The lacteal fluid is, however, not much patronised by the digging fraternity, the dwellers in tents. Considering the number who have left wooden tenements to reside on the damp ground under their calico, the camp is exceedingly healthy, and I am not aware of any serious case of sickness, although the weather lately has been very trying, The digging population at present here may be estimated at about 500, of whom 300 are experienced or practical miners', and the|rcmaining 200 are trying their prentice hand, and, as may be imagined, the way in which the new chums " wire in "is a caution. Some start to the attack with double-headed picks, two men at the face at one time. Others wander about with a galvanized iron pros pecting dish, and can never even raise a colour. One party of horny handed sons of the soil who have left their cattle to the care of the good wife, instead of getting a barrow to wheel the mullock out of their drives, to save the expense, carry the sandstone rock out in bags. They say it answers just as well as a barrow. The leader they aro driving for they havo driven through and left under foot, and every time they go in and out of their workings they innocently trample it down. They still believe it is a-hcad of them, and are driving away manfully with blistered hands, wrappr.d up with rags. One old digger looking at the mullock heaped up in the drive, sarcastically remarked " that it looked as if it had been kicked out by a horse." NEW HOTEL. A license having been granted to the Rena Morgan Hotel, erected by Mr Clot , worthy, the house was opened yesterday afternoon, and a brisk business was done until the hour of closing. Outside three members of the Cambridge brass band discoursed, if not sweet, loud music, and farther up the flat a number of young fellows, most likely belonging to the ' Thames Navals, who the girls say are adepts at the light fantastic, taking ad vantage of the height moonlight, footed it right merrily to the music of a concertina.

Mr O'Hallorau, proprietor of the Hot Spring's Hotel, is about to dispose of his business and return to his old trade as auctioneer, which lie will carry on in conjunction with general store, which ia supplied with a varied and extensive stock. In providing for the sudden influx of people that invaded these hitherto silent wilda since the opening of the field, considering all things, Mr O'Balloran has achieved wonders, and has I consequently reaped a rich harvest. Who ever takes over the business will start with a good trade. I THE SULPHUK BATHS. I am sorry to say that our celebrated warm sulphur baths, the pride of Te Aroha, have been rendered almost useless through the indiscriminate manner iv which ail and sundry have used them. The baths are black with dirt, and anyone that is mind- j ful of himself now thinks twice before venturing in. It is to be hoped that ( these valuable springs will be taken charge of by the Government, proper baths made and buildings erected, with a custodian to see that the waters are not polluted by persons suffering from cutaneous and other diseases. A small charge would be gladly paid by the miners. A GALE. On Tuesday night the Mountain of Love was out of sorts, and hurled at her admirers a perfect hurricane of wind and torrents of rain—wind that could only be rivalled by the Empire city—wind that sweeping down from the cloud-capped mighty giant caught the frail calico tenements, doubling them up, ripping them to pieces, and sweeping them right.away, regardless of the unfor tunates who had no other shelter. Dozens of tents were overturned, and in the pelting rain the owners wandered about seeking shelter with those whose,tents, by some lucky accident, withstood the blast. Yes terday was line, and enabled the miners to repair damages and dry blankets.

Several large buildings are near comple tion, and will soon be opened for business, amongst them may be mentioned an hotel, for Mr Quinlan, of Panmure; a large store and drapery establishment, for Messrs Moore and Morgan; a restaurant for Hone, the prospector, to be conducted by Mr Potter. :TE ARO 3A COMPANY. The winze in the Te Aroha Company is down about six feet, and the leader has carried gold down to the floor. In excavat ing the winze another small leader was discovered running parrellel, and also carry ing gold. The country is lair working ground similar to what is on the surface, where some more of the leaders to the south' has been stripped, and gold can be plainly seen on the stone, MINING OPERATIONS. , The Bonanza Company are working in the ' Prospectors' north boundary, and paddock ing the quartz from the leader. The country at this point is hard rock, requiring charges of powder, and the leader, which is the same as the Te Aroha, is much pinched. In the other mines no new finds of importance have taken place, and it is evident that specimens will not be so plentiful as they were in the early days of the Thames, but nevertheless there is every reason to believe, from the discoveries already made, that Te Aroha will be a payable field, and in due time return good interest for capital that may be invested. Tho following claims are some that may be looked upon as having payable quartz already in hand -.—The Te Aroha Company, Bonanza, United, Prince ot Wales, Morning Star, Smile of Fortune, Auckland, Golden Anchor, and the Bright Smile. What is required now is battery power, and until that is provided the pro gress of the field will be necessarily slow. Several parties who have paid a living visit to Te Aroha have lett With tho impression that there are no defined reefs here discovered at present. This idea has no doubt originated from the fact that the surface over a large portion of the field now being worked is much shaken and the caps of the reefs disturbed, but as thero are several large reefs that can be traced for some distance cropping out, it goes far to prove that the cross veins of quartz when followed into solid country will also be defined and continuous, and from the trial crushings already made it is believed that the gold returns will be, if not so rich and patchy, more regular than at the Thames or Coromandel. But at pre sent very little has been done, and it will be several months yet before any decided opinion of the field can be formed. OTHER PROSPECTS. In the high range at the back of the Prospectors' spur there is every indica tion that.good mines will be opened in that quarter. The cops of large reefs crop out iv the creeks and spurs, and colours of the precious metal caa be washed from the banks of the stream, which has a strong flow of water. At present this part of Te Aroha has not received much attention, but with the new year some payable reefs will 1 doubtless be discovered iv that locality,

Grand Lodge, L.O.G.T.

IBY TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRESPONDENT;]

WELLINGTON, this Hay THE "Post" to-night gives the following additional account of a deputation from th Grand Lodge of New Zealand, 1.0.G.T which waited on the Government yesterday in reference to the licensing laws, v consisted of the following representatives Bros.:—Thomasßoseby,LL.D,,G,W C T' J. W. .Tago, P.G.W.C.T.; Cameron, h'et'J tary (Dunedin); E. Ford, W.V.l'.. p Buckland (Christchurch), E, J, G. Dixon (Wellington), J. Barnett (Leeston), g Sands and G. W. Andrews (Aahburton. I R. Webb (Lyttelton), E. G. Allsworth (Wanganui), D. McGregor (Hokitika) J Stead (Invercarpill), W. Gibson (Nelson)' and G. McDonald (Alexandra), Thn deputation was introduced by Mr Levea M.H.R. The Miniateis present were the Premier and Miuister of Justice Dr. Roseby pointed out that while a good deal of importance was justly attached to a reform ofthe law affecting the sale of intoxicating liquor, very much mote might be done towards a mitigation of i B . temperance than was done at presont if the existing law was more stringently enforced Sunday traffic was carried on in the most open manner, and at a former deputation to the Government the publican freely ad mitted the fact. The police, too, were well aware of this. He admitted thete was a difficulty in sheeting home offences of this kind, but this arose from the provisions made for proving a case. The sale of drink to chil dren and intemperate persons was the cause of much evil, and appeared to him to be preventible. Dr Roseby mentioned that recently the Victorian Government, on being waited upon by a deputation relative to the Sunday liquor traffic, replied that the Go. vernment were about to appoint a new Superintendent of Police, and only such a person as was willing to undertake the strict enforcement of the laws in this res pect would be appointed. With regard to the local option provision in the Bill of lest session, these had given very general satis faction, though they would like to see the provision extended to the existing housen, so as not only to check the evil, but to diminish it. THE PREMIER'S REPLY. The Premier said until the system had been fairly tried and public opinion was stronger iv this direction, the Government could not promise to go further than local option, regarding new houses, The Government were as anxious as anyone to check intemperance, and he miphtf take it upon him', self to say that instructions would be given to the police to strictly enforce the present provisions of the licensing law.

This appeared to satisfy the deputation who thanked the minister and withdrew. '

BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF COL LEGE AND GRAMMAR SCHOOL.

A meetisg of the Board of Governors was held in the office of Mr James, Shortland. street, this morning. Present: —Sir G. M. U'Korkein the chair, J. McCosh Clark, Esq, (Mayor), T. Peacock, Esq., E. Heskethj Esq., and Colonel Haultain.

Minutes.—The minutes of the previous meeting were confirmed.

English Master,—The Chairman said the special business of the present meeting was the appointment of an English master.-Mr "Hesketh suggested that Mr McCrae should be sent for, with the view of affording information to tha Board.-Mr Peacock had looked carefully over the testimonials, and considered that No. 7, (Mr Stewart) who had large expert ence, and was from Queen's College, Bel. fast, should be appointed. Mr McCrae had named Messrs Stewart, Badham, Gulliver, and McLean, but No. 7 appeared to have had the largest experience. —Mr Clark (Mayor) supported Mr Hesketh, and con sidered that Mr McCrae should give the Board the benefit of his opinion in tegard to the candidates. Col. Haultain having made a few remarks, it was resolved to send for Mr McCrae. ,

Report in "Stab. "-The Chairman said, while -waiting for Mr Macrae, he might mention that the Head Master had com plained about a report in the Stab news paper, which implied a want of respect to the Board on the part of Mr Macrae; bat the Board had not regarded it in an nflea sivu light.- Mr James, the Secretaiy, stated that he had Baid nothing dis* respectful towards the Head Mas ter. A conversation was held, in which he stated that he had applied to the head master for information, and was in formed that he could not give it to him (Mr James) but he could furnish the Board with it.—Mr Hesketh could not really see what the Board had to do with it.—Colonel Haul tain said be did not expect to find news paper reports always accurate.—The Mayor wished to know if the report was correct, The general impression was that the report was substantially correct, but a wrong con struction seemed to have been placed on it. On the motion of Mr Peacock it was resolved that Mr McCrae be informed that a conversation of the nature referred to did take place, but that the, Board did not authorise the secretary to make the enquiry stated in the report in the news paper, and that the Board do not consider that Mr McCrea's answer In the slightest degree disrespectful. ,7; I Prizes.—The Rev. Mr Runoiman sent a letter to the Board, stating that, owiilg to the very large number of papers for ex amination, it was impossible for him and Rev. MrMulgan ta get through the papers iv time for awarding the prizes on Wednesday next.—lt was then resolved to defer the distribution of prizes until the opening of the next quarter, and on the motion of Mr Hesketh, it was determined to postpone tha singing of the pupils, under the care of Mr Gooch, until the same term, V * ■ The Board aud Headmaster then went into Committee for the purpose of consider ing the testimonials and qualifications of the thirty two applicants for the position of English master, which occupied a con siderable time. We have since learned that no appointment was made, but that a gentleman from Timaru, should fnrttaW inquiries be satisfactory, is likely to be the successful candidate.

Tho Board was then adjourned,

CRICKET.

Thk following matches vrere played in the Domain Cricket Ground on Saturday afternoon:—" ''•■_.. West End v. North Shore.-In this match Arniel for the West End was to the fore with 82 runs, King and Coleman also making good scoring. Although the match was drawn it seems in favour of the West End. West End :-Choyce, c Shaw, 0 j Kingc McGechie, 34; Lynch,; c Webster, 10; Macky, b Wynyard, 1; Anuel, not out, 82 ; Coleman, c Webster, 15; Day, 6 Webster, 8; Mitchell, at Wynyard, 0; Y. Butler, c Wynyard, 2 ; Whitside, c Wyn yard, 1; Walker, b Wynyard, 0; efctras, 18 : total, 171. The North Shore made 17 for 5 wickets when the stumps were drawn. ,■ ■ _*J Auckland United and Eden C.C.- This proved a gift to the United* who won by 2 wickets and 111 runs. Eden: First innings—D. Tonks. b Lankham, 0; S. Hes keth, run out, 9; Bowden, c Cromwell, 1 j A. Tonks, c Mumford, 0; Buckland, c Dufaur, 2; Cheesaman, b Lankham, 0; Pearson, b Lankham, 2; Major Wilmot, not out, 4; Mocatta, b Lankham, 0; D. Nolan, c Lankham, 0; Young, b Lankham, 5; Extras, 0: Total, 23. Auckland United: First innings-Mumford, b Bowden, 24? I'estro, retired, 54; W. Dufaur, b Bowden, 6; Lankham s, run out, 12; Johnston, ran out, 5: P. Dufaur, c Tonks, 0; JerviS.lbw, 2 ; Lankham i„ c Tonks, 2j Cromwell, o Wilmott, 6; R. Ellis, not out, 9; Wad dingham. not out, 6; Extras, 8: Total, Civil Service v. Auckland C.C.-TJe match resulted in favour of Auckland, me following are the scores :—Auckland, nrst innings: Cox, 18; Bindon, 5; Roach, i, Colbeck, 13 ; Reid, 3; A. Beale, flji* Beale, 8 ; Earle, 0; Williams, 0; F. Beale, 2; Gould. 4; extras, 17. Total, 73. Second innings . Cox, 0; E. Beale, 8; Earle, 15, Gould, 4; Williams, 7; F. Beale, 8; A. Beale, 0; Bindon, 1; byes, 2. Total, 46. -Civil Service, first innings.: Mitforu,^, Swanson, 7; Greatbatcb, 2; Ivens, 0, Weetman, 2; Irvine, 6 ; Parris, 4; Lams den, 11; Morrow, 4; Ellis, 0 : byes, 7. Tital, 45 . .._„„ West End v. Onehunga.— A match was played on Saturday between the West fino (second eleven) and Onehunga United v** (second eleven), on the Onehunga g"""1"' which resulted in favour of Onehunga Dy four runs. The scores are : Onehunea-" Beavers, 3 ; Dore, 0; R. Wall, 4; Gallery, 1 : Stokes, 25; Leahy, 6; Mahohey, «, Stych, 0; A. Wall/4; Mooney (not out, 3; Donovan, 0; extras, 15: total, W- West End—Stovin, 6 ; Yon Stunner, /. Wallace, 7; Waymoutb, 3; Woods.J. Butler, 9; Taylor, 6 ; Baker. 0 ; Sullivan (not out), 7 ; Courtayne, 3; Davy, 0; «' ttas, 7 : total, 57. . • . WII Alpha v. 2nd Eleven Auckland United.—A match was played at Surrey Hills on Saturday last between eleven w the Alpha CO. and the 2nd Eleven of the Auckland United C.C. in which «£ {*>« mentioned club were victorious. 1» «" lowiDg aio the scores :-United Ist inning"-

*m_mm_mm_m_m__^_w__m-*G jimi. iuujuai. TTET^nrrrcn *v,



Monday, December 20.

Station.

Manukau.... Thames Tauranga.... Napier Taranaki Wanganui... Wellington.. NbIboo Greymoutb.. Lyttelton Timaru Oamaru Pt. Chalmers Bluff_

Win a o a o I p S.W. N.W. H.W. S.W. S.H*. S.E. S.W, *.»: S.W. 3.W. S.W. ~.w. S.W. w.

id.

A B.B Br. L. L. C.B F. L. L. L. L. L. L. Br

el o s « 129.18 30.06 29.92 29 98 -9.9G ; 29 91 30.00 29 25 30.02 30 06 30.161 30 031 30.13; 80.151

» -d c8 a u a 156 165 !66 163 IG2 *61 164 162

CQ a ■ _ _ o a B.C r_G 3.0 B.C C. 0. B.C B. 0. H. B.C 0. B.C

State of Sea, Bar, or Rivers.

clear breaks

calm I smooth smooth

moderate

51 63 61 55 53

smooth smooth



Special Advertisements. STRANGERS AND TRAVELLERS Visiting Auckland will find the LARGEST OUTFITTING STOCK IN THE COLONY To Seleot from at THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. Thousands of Customers testify to the Cursßioß quality & JJUtting Of the Garments made by them. The Stook of SHIRTS, TIES, HATS, and HOSIERY, Is very large, and includes a CHOICE ASSORTMENT OF NOVELTIE FOR THE HOLIDAYS. A special Bupply of PORTMANTEAUX BAGS, RUGS, and all Travelling Requisites for Tourists. AUCKLAND BRANCH: Qaeen-Btreet (opposite Theatre Royal), And at Albert-street, Thames. J. FITZBIMONS, Manager.



JVMAS TTOLIDAYS, 1880. TWEVV Y KAR' 3 JJOLIDAYS, 1881. T» EGATTA p XCURSIONS, 1881. A USTRALIAN CRICKETERS' yiSIT, 1881 W'E are Prepared to SUPPLY YOU with the Most Sultableland Fashionable Clothinb Required for Holiday Gathering*, Pienloa, Water Exourstons, Lawn Tennis and Garden Parties. GARLICK & CRANWELL, SUNSH \DES, for Afternoon Use —G. SUNSHADt-S,forPicnics,laupwards-& SU NSHADHS, for Carriage Uso —C. OMPADOURDrosB Golds, New Pat. —G. BAT BEN, New Lot, j ust opened — & NOVELTIES in Dreas Goods oon- Btantly arriving • — C. CHILDREN'S Pompadour Dresses, Very Cheap — O. CHILDREN'S 2-Button Kid Gloves — & CHILDREN'S Hoslery-an Immenso Variety — C. HATS.I adies'. Job Line,lfl 3d worth 2s6d— G. HATS and Bonnets Trimmed Cheap— & HATS for Children from la upwards— C. GARLICK & CRANWELL would remind the Publio that they have SACRIFICKD a Credit Trade for tho sake of establish ing the pO-OPERATIVE C^E-H QYSTEM We Open no New Accounts for Dra pery. We LOSE Customers who ask for Credit ; all we ask in return is a Liberal Support by Cash Buyers, to enable us to continue what is a Publio Benefit Our Goods are very Carefully Bought, and Marked at a Very Small Percentage over Cost, and we must do a Laroe Business to continue the System, and the Larger our "Turn Over''|the imore our Customers will Benefit by their Support „ LAWN TENNIS APRONS — G. RIDING GLO YES, Silk Gloves - & KID GLOVES, 1,2,3, „, 6, & 8 Bntton— C. FANCY BAGS and Boxes of Handkerchiefs for Presents GOLD and CHENILLE Scarves and Collarettes - G. GOLD and SILVER Trimmings — & GOLD COLOURED Silk Fringes,&o.— C. SILKS, we have the Cheapest — G, SILKS, Special Lines, 2a 9d, Is 3d, 4s 6d per yard — & SATINS and Fancy Goods for Trlm- mlng — C. CRETONNES, on immense Assortment — G. CRKTONNES, backed with Lace, Curtain Pattern — & CRETONNES, New Styles, from 7d per yard — C. RTICLE3 of New Designs too numerous to mention in Hosiery, Underclothing, Millinery, Ladles' Nick Nacks, and Fancy Goods. BANKRUPT STOCK of Men's and Boys Clothing and Mercery. Now being SOLD at Kobinson's Cost, and Manu facturers' P.riees by GiiRMCK Se CRANWKLL. FRY CHEAP TABLE DAMASKS, from Is 6d per yard. a pURBJ pASH OY3TEM. /P \ ALL DRAPER V & CLOTHING / C. S. \ AT \ - /CO-OPERATIVE CASH yy PRICES, \/ AT THE r«TY TTALL A RCADE, GARLICK & CRANWELL, Proprietors. ,



QUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS I SALE WILL COMMENCE ON MONDAY, 20TH INBT. THE GOODS WILL BE OFFERED AT pOST DillCE! FOR A FEW WEEKS ONLY 1 In Order to Clear Heavy Stocks T /COSGRAVE & Importers of DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, queen-street, Auckland. N.B.—No Goods will be entered during the Sale.



«3 P E C Ij A. L NOTICE. Wejthe underslgned.frespe Wall Sinvite|the Inspection of the Ladies ofgAucbland and the surrounding district to the factj,that|'we are Opening up a A LARGE AND VARIKD ASSORTMENT OF ENGLISH, FRENCH, & AMERICAN GOODS, IN MILLINERY, HOSIERY GLOVES, FEATHERS FLOWERS, LACES Sec, &c See, DUNNE, HALL, & CO., 174, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND Opposite the Thistle Hotel). W I N X b & TT ALL. HAVE REMOVED FROM SHORTLAND-STREET TO TEMPORARY PREMISES IN FORT STREET, OPPOSITE COCHRANE AND SON'S AUCTION MART, AND WILL CONTINUE THEIR 'CHEAP SALE I FOR A FEW WBBKS LONGER, TO CLEAR • SURPLUS STOCK. THEY WILL REMAIN IN FORT-STREET DURING THE RE-BUILDING OF THEIR WARE HWSE IH SHOBTLAND-STRPT.



Special Advertisements. T> A N X HOLIDAY. MONDAY next, the 27th December, has been appointed a Speolal Bank Holiday, by the undermentioned. Bank, at all Its branohes in tho Colony. „ , . For tho National Bank of New Zealand (Limited). (Signed) THOS. BUCHANAN. Inspector. pHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR PREBE NT Q I RE S E N T O I Ladies' BLACK and COLORED COSTUMES ADi ES" BONNETS and HATS, In tho Latest Paris Styles Ladies' SILK and CASHMERE MANTLHS, CAPES and VISITES LANGTREY HOODS Ladies' KID and TAFFETTA SILK GLOVES In Endless Variety Ladies'SlLK, SATIN and TUSSORE PARASOLS.



CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS AND and NEW YEAR PRESKNrS, NEW YKAR PRESENTS, AT WILLIAM -OATTRAY'S DRAPERY, MANTLE, AND MILLINERY ESTABLISHMENT. New Zealand House, 66, queen-street, auckland. M. M UR C H I E MERCHANT TAILOR AND IMPORTER. FRESH ARRIVALS. English and Scotch Tweeds-7 oaßoa by , ' Loohnagar' Serge Suitinos in Blue and Black, of a New Make and Finish Something New In Bannockburn Tweeds, which was awarded Ist prizo at tho Sydnoy Exhibition Saxony Tweeds in Blue and Blaok, of suporlor quality and now design, Another Consignment to arrive by ' Fernglon, Samplea mailed to any address. Tho Immense quantity of Clothing we ship to the large cities and towns iv tbe oolony la a BufHolont guarantee that tho QUALITY and MAKE of these Goodß cannot bo equalled. Orders by mail will roeolvo our best attontion. WANTED, four First-class Tailors, to whom constant employment wllljbo glvou at the ton penny log. M. M U R C H I E, Opposito Arch. Clark Se Son's, Shortland Street. IY/B" ILNE & riHOYCE HAVE NOW REOBIVED, PER STEAM KR, NEW OATCAKE CLOTH NEW FIGURED SATTEENS NEW PLAIN SATTEKNS NEW CHECKED SATTEENS NEW-SPUN SILK HOSE NEW LISLE HOSE NEW COTTON HOSE NEW MILLINERY NEW HATS AND BONNETS NEW FANCY GOODS GENURALLY. "jyi" ILNE & piIOYCE, Queen & Wellesley stbxets.



'[ADVT.J "LIFE AND DEATH OF PLANETS," (To the Editor.) Sir,—ln reply to Mr Proctor's very " gen tlemanly " notice of ray letter to your morn ing contemporary, I beg to say that the dying out of life " on " a planet is germain to the matter. The question was the death of a planet. My intense " stupidity" of the subject was no doubt the cause of my tak ing up the pen.—.ours, &c, • | _ KB.—Briefly, "change," not "death," 13 the word.—G. T. L G. TIBBUTT. '