SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH V"_TSK..j To-morrow Morn_|{, 11.55 fcUNSKT.—Thia Evening, 7.U. hUNRi3K.—To-Morrow Morning. 4.16 .. CON'S AGF.-Last Quarter, 25th, 6,26 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

LAST EVKNING.

Argylo, s.s„ Crawford, from Whangarei

TO-DAY

Waitaki, s.s,, Edle, from Russell Mariner, schooner, Queen, from Russell Opotiki, soh.. Collinga, Irom Wairoa, H.B. Kriemhilda, sch„ Bathurat, from Whangaroa

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVENING. Fingal, s.s., Norria, for Mercury Bay

TO-DAY, Hero, s.s., Logan, for Wellington Waitaki, b,b„ Hldie, for Whangarei

IMPORTS.

. Per Opotiki, from Wairoa Heads—loo sacks maize, 4 hidos, 6 sheepakine.

EXPORTS.

Por Orwell, for Baoul laland-20 tins biscuits, 10 tins flour, and returned trado.

Inwards Coastwise.—LogooD, from |Port Charles, with 21,000 if .et timber; Julia Price, from Thames, with 2000 feet timber; Ellen, from Manaia; |Marinor, from Russell; Kriem hilda, from Whangaroa; Lee, from Walheko; Gem, from tairua; IKlainoro, from Tairua; wave, from Whangarei; South Carolina, from Barrier; Janet, from Whangarei Heads,

Outwards Coastwise.—Golden I»le, for Ru?sell; Angtata, for Kaipara; IKairy, for Rus neli; Vvhangarci, for Russell; Ellen, for Manaia; Traneport, lor Whangaroa; Mariner, lor Kuasoll; Nancy, for (T_.aniei; South Carolina, for Barrier.

The s.s. A rgylo from Whangarei brought 20 bales wool, 3 balea Ifnngus, 1C sacks fangua, 100 sacks kauri gam, 20 sacka coal, 8 hlc.es, 1 horse, 18 boxes and 10 kegs butter, 18 boxes poultry, 10 C 8833 fruit, 35 boxes eggs.

The 8.8, Hero sailed this aftornoon for Australia via tho South. Sho took a number ot original passengers, and also Mr Willniott bojked at Auckland for Nowcastle.

The Bchooner Opotiki arrived from Wairoa, Hawkes Bay, last night, after eleven daya. She brought a cargo of maize.

The s.s. Waitaki from Buss-ill brought tho fol lowing passengers:—Meeara S. Clarke, Hobaor,, Bcott, Dyer, Hart, Breen, Butterworth, G. AtkinsoL, CnatiLld, Maraden, and Stewart. Dr. House, Captain Dam, Meadames Clarke, Knight, Johnson, Miaa Brown, and others.

Tho brig Transport cleared to-day for Whan garoa, where she will load for Melbourne.

The brigantino Orwell sills to-night for Raoul Island.

The Midge onterod out to-day for Levuka,

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Rowona, s.s., Amodco, from Hokianga

DEPARHJRKS. Lalla Rookh, p.f„ Campbell, for Waitara Oroti, ss, Frasor, for South

Tho as. Oreti, for the South, took the follow ing passengers:—Messrs Holliwood, Greenleaf, and Stevenson, Misses Lorigan and Donovan, and Mr and an D. Millar.

The s.s. Rowena. Captain Frank Amodeo, arrived at the Mannkau at 9 a.m. to-day with 135 eacka of gum, 22 cases of gum, and a lot of sundries. Passengers :—Mr J, Lundon, Misa L. Lnndon, and E. Lundon, Mrs Duncan, Mi»s Leys, Mr Duncan, Mr Smith, Mr Parsons, Mr Leys, Mesara O'Connor, iioakins, Urown, and one prisoner.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Taur-anga. this day. Arrived:—Glenelg, from Auckland, at 8 a.m, Napier, this day. Sailed: Southern Cross, for Auckland, at noon.

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Star Officb-. Friday.

Mrß. A rtur'ageneral sale today waa largely Stocked'with poultry.but generally business was not equal to what waa ex-iected at a Christmas sale : fowls, Is 6d to 2a _d ; turkeys, 3s 9d to la 9d : docks, Is 3d to 2s; Aylesbury dncka. 2a 3d to 2a 9d ,- geese, 33 Bd to la. The sale of bacon and provislonß was not competed. Mr W. Dowden's general eale was well attended, and remunerative prices obtained ; old potatoes, Is 3d ; and new (best) 4s; ohease, 3Jd to si, according to quality ; raisins. 7d; bacon (inferior). 6d to 7d; onions, Id. Furniture sold at'reasonable prices. Mr a. Bettany has a splendid show of dairy fed bacon and Canterbury hams at hia market stall, and some of the finest samples of cheese we have witnessed for some time.

Thn Market ia full of good thing* to-day, and Mrs Knight's display of all kinds of fruit ia very noticeable.

THAMES CATTLE MARKET.

Bank's and Co.'s weekly report ending Wednesday, December 22nd, owing to the •Christmas holidays and to suit t*e trade, our weekly sale wai held on Wednesday instead of a3usnal, on Thursday, The beet pens were .wall filled with prime 'provincial fatted oxen, which with one exception, werecleared, at from £715- to £10 2a 6deach. The overland Napier wethera, good quality averaged 12a. The lambs offered were not iirat-clasa, and consequently Blow of sale, at from 7a 6d to 10a; a few very nlcsi porkera mado satisfactory pricea. iSaveral useful hacks and harness horses found pur chasers at £S 5b to £1115a; fprime beef, 26s per lOOlbs.; mutton, 2Jd per lb.

AUCKLAND CATTLE MARKET.

MBAIFBBDBUOKLAND'SWK-tKLY REPORT.

At the Haymarket, on Friday last, fowl 'wheatbrought 2s 6d; maize, 2s 3d; oats, Is 9d the bnshel. The Shorthorn cattle occasioned a large attendpace, but bidding fell far short of the owner's expectations, and two animals only were Bold at the auction. Subsequently, several wera sold privately, and two superior young bulls only remain unsold. Those sold were the Ducheaa of Derriomut, purchased by W. Fan tnam for 110 guineas; roan Butterfly Duke, by W. E. B. Walker, 55 guineas; Premium's ' JOucheag the 6th Duchess of Bridgewat-r and Oxford's Brasa Knocker, 300 guineas, by |Mr vv. 3t Hurat; 4th Duke of Bridge water, Messrs Reid Brothers, 60 guineas; Harmony IV„ Mr W. Karl, 65 guineas. Horao stock wero yarded in full numbers, and the free bidding which characterised tha previous week's market was sustained. Heavy draught brought from £27 to £10; medium draught, £18 to £27; riding horses, £i to £17 each.

At Rsmußra, on Thursday, dairy cattle were in good demand at an advance of fully 10s each 'over late prices ruling. Store cattle yarded in fall number, with a briak inquiry throughout at late values. Fat cattle in moderate supply; 110 head yarded. Last week's values barley sustained. I Woll fatted Auckland steers brought from 21s to 25s the lOOlbs, hut aged cattle. cowb, and ship-borne oattlewere from 18a the lOOlba. and upwards. Sheep were in full num bers at first, and laat week's prices were sustained, but prices fell fully la per head as the Bale advanced. Lambs were also in full numbers, and prices easier. Best quality Tanged from 93 to 13s; lowest price, 6s 6a each. Fat calves were .unusually plentiful, and at low values. Coarse pigs were also at low values and medium weight. Well-bred pigs shared In the depression, but light weight well-brod porkers were in steady demand at Id the lb, dead weight.

MESSRS HUNTER AND NOLAN'S WaEKLY REPORT.

Horses.~-There was a large muster at our an nual fllron Friday last, at the Durham Yards, notwithstanding the non-arrival of theiNspier and Wangtnuilotß, The yards were completely »fl'led; bidding was steady throughout the sale; and a very large proportion of tho lots entered were 1 disposed of, either hy direction or privately, after tbe Bale. We quote: Hacks. £7 .to £1716a; meolum draught, £1310a to £i_ 10s; heavy draught, £28 to £38. Cattle.—The supply has been large.' On Wednesday, at Newmarket, there was a large muster of fat beasts. Some were in top condi tion, reflecting credit on both breeder and feeder, hut some were not sufficiently np in con dition for the season of the year. A draft of splendid cattle from One-tree Hill elicited keen ' competition, and the fact of a three-year old Bteßr realizing £14 2s 6d shows what butchers will giva for quality. We quote: Beef, 23a to 30a. Dairy cows, £6 10* to £9153; calves, from 32a to £2175; yearlinga, £3 to £317s 6d; two-yea - old Bteers, £1 to £4 15b ; grown steers, £6. Sheep wore in lull numbers, and sold at an advance on laat week'aqnotationß. We quote: Best wethers, lis to 21s 6d; mixed, 10a to 13s 6d. Lambs were plentiful, and sold at from i6s to 13s 6d. Pigs were yarded In average numbers, and sold well.

AUCKLAND PRODUCE MARKETS.

Wholesale. Retail. b. d. s.d. s d. s. d. Butter, fß,*lb 0 7-0 8 Milk, quart 0 4—o 0 .Best Dairies 0 9-0 0 Butter.fa,lb 9 0-10 Butter, sit, lb 0 o—o 0 Butter, salt 010—0 0 Cheese (new) 0 5-0 6 Cbeese (col.) 0 8-8 0 |Do., Cant. 0 6-0 0 Eggs,doz..."l 3-1 3 Egga.doz. 1 o—o 0 Lard, lb .. 0 o—o 10 Lard, lb (tin s)0 7—o 8 Fowls, each 2 6—3 0 Bacon acdHams, Ducks, each 2 6—3 0 t Provincial 0 7—olo Geese, each 5 o—7 0 Canterbury Hams Turkeys .. 5 0~7 0 and Bacon (in Bacon, lb .; 0 10—1 0 oloth) .. 0 10J-1 0 Hams, lb .. 1 o—l 3 Bread, Id to I'd per 21b loaf Jams, per case, 5 doz, 30s to 32s 6d. Butter continues very plentiful. Eggs are scarcer hut market unsettled. Butcher's Meati Retail.

s. d. s. d. Roasting Beef n 5 to 0 7 Boiling Beef 0 4 —05 Mutton, hind-quarter .. .. ~ oo— 01. „ fore-qurjter 02\ — 0 3 lßf 'SSSSSSS {P~ter} 4 0-5 0 Pork and Veal ~ .. .. ..06 —07 Steaks .0 6-0 8 Chops and Sausages 0 S—o C Tallow best (wholesale)—mutton, 80s; mixed, ~. to 255. r Flour Market. Wholesalo. £ s. d. Superfine Flour, silk dressed, perton.. 13 0 0 Fine Flour, ditto, household .. .. 12 0 0 Sharps, per ton 4 10 0 Adelaide, per ton ... .. £13103-11 0 0 Oamaru, per ton .. .. _ .. 12 0 0 Dunedin, per ton .. .. .. £11—12 0 0 Canterbury, per ton £11—12 0 0 . Bran (per ton (sacks Included) .. 5 00 Cabin Bread .. -. _ .. .. 18 0 0 Oatmeal 11 0 0 Pearl Barley 18 0 0 Hay and Corn Market. Wholesale. Maize (Syd.)3 3-0- 0 Hay, me'dow it (Gal.) none ton pressed 5 o—o 0 „ (Fijn.) 2 6-2 9 Lucerne, do None „ (Coast) 2 9-3 0 Straw (load) 0 18-110 Oats .. ..2 0-2 3 Chaff .. ..4 10-5 0 Wheat (fowli 3 6-10 Hay (oaten) 5 10-0 0 Potatoes, £5. ! : Retail. s. d. s. d. B. d. s. d. Maize,bushel? 6-3 91 Lucerne, cwt.7 6-8 0 Oats, ditto ..2 3-2 9 Oaten, ditto 6 0-7 0 ' Bran, lOOlbs 0 0-6 01 Straw, ditto 3 0-4 0 ;'. "\Kheat (fowl) 3 3-3 61 Chaff, ditto 5 6-6 0 ; Hay, owt. ..60-6 6|Potafes.dltto4 6-5 0 Seeds.—Retail. , ' a. d. s. d. b. d. b. d. • Ryegrass ..6 0-6 01 Cocksfoot,bl.6 0-8 0 ii-'ltalian,do. ..8 :0-0 0| Trefoil. lb. 0 9-0 0 ■RedClover.lbO 9-0 0 Ratstail, lb. 16-0 0 .WBlteCloverl I—o 0 Timotliy.lb. 0 6-0 Alajto/ib ..1 2-0 0 Lucerne,lb. \ 6-0 0 ■ tiowfJKVBV, I{JX 0-0 01 Rape, lb ..C 5 0 0 'X''i,-T*'-A.-' .is'yi ■

Woolpacks in quantity, 3a 3d to 3a 6d oach corn sacks, 8a to 9a 6d per dozen. Fenoing wire Nos. 6. 7 and 8, assorted, £1610s to £17 por ton _

Building! Materials. Timder.—Boardaand Soantling, 100 ft., best Ha 6d; second claes, 7b 6d; beat planed, tonguod and grooved, 13e 6d ; Becond-claas ditto, 9a Od' Mills: Cargo, best, Ba6d; sec-class,da6d. Baulk, New Zealand Palings, sft (aapl, 10a; sft (heart 1 13s; 6ft, 13a Tl-troe Railß, £310s per 100; Puriri Posta. £6; Shingles, lis per 1,000; Hobart Towk Palings, sft, 17a; 6ft, 19a; Hobart Town Rails, 90s, selling quotations. Bricks (at Whau,) 40s per 1,000; Town Yards, £2 153: delivered, £2 103. Drain pipea, per 100, 6 inches bore), 30a; -1 inches, lis; 3 inches 9a 2 inches. £210a per 1,000 socket glazed pipes, 18 inchea 2a 6d por foot; 15 inchoa, 2a por foot; 12 Inches, is 6d per foot; 9 inches, Is nor foot; ti inches, 6d per foot; i inchea, 4d per foot. Lime, Blacked, is por bushol; quick lime in sack, la 6d to 2a.

Coal and Firewood Market. Coal.—Nowcastle (ship's side), cargo 31s per ton; yard, 10a to 15s. Bay of Islands, at yardß, 25s 6d; screened, 28s Od; ditto at the mlno, 12a; ship's side, 23s Gd. Waikato, at mine, 5s ;in Auokland 17a Gd to 225; Taupiri, at mines, Ga Gd to 12s ;at yarc", 18s to 21s; delivered, 253 to 28a. Wangarei, at mine, 8s 6d;lyard (Btesm), 17s; hoiißohold, 22a. Miranda, at yard (housohold), 18a; steam, 18a, Knmo (household), 28s, 303 delivered; Bteam, 235. Firewood.—Uncut, at wharf (cargo), 8s to 93 per ton; delivered, 13b ; cut, lis to lGs.

Kauri Gum and Flax Market. Gum-rather easier. Tho following aalea have boen effected sinco last Friday :—Good ordinary Kaipara and Whangarei at £37 to £39. Wai kato, £30 to £31. East Coast, £12 to £16 recoiptß for December, so far, 520 tona. FLAX.-Kinest quality £20-£23 per ton Flax.—Medium .. .. 17 ~ Tow 10 -12 „ Fungus I'd. por lb

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Close as Under :—

Thib Day.

For Wangarei Heads and Wangarol, per

Argyle, at 4 p.m. For Thames, per Kotomahana, at 1.30 p.m. For Thames, per Knterpriae, at 5.30 p.m. For Wellington, Newcastle (N.S WJ. and Australian Colonies, per Hero, at 6.30 p.m. For newapapers, at 5 30 p.m. Monday, 27th inatant.

For Waiwera, Mahurangi, Matakana, Manga wai, Walpu, and Mangapai, por Rose Casoy, at 9 a.m. For Tairua, per Elalnoro, at 4 p.m. For Tauranga and Opotiki, per Waitaki, at

5 pm. For Thames, per Rotomahana. at 5.30 p.m.

Tuesday, 28th Inatant.

For Waiwera, Kawau, Omaha, and Matakana,

per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Taranaki and Southorn porta, per Wanaka, at 1.15 p.m. For Levuka. r*r Midge, at 3 p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Waipu, Wangarei, and Mangapai, por Argyle, at 1 p.m. For Tauranga and Opotiki, per Glenelg, at

4 p.m. For Rnasell, Kawakawa, Wangaroa, and Mongonui, per lona, at 1 p.m.

Tuesday, 4th January, 1831. Per s.s. City of Sydney aa follows :— For Sandwich Inlands, United Stateß of America. Canada, Britiah Columbia. Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, Japan, and China, including Hongkong, at 1 tun. Kor United Kingdom and Continent of Enrope, at 1 p.m. For money ordors. registered letters, and nowspapors. at 11,30 a.m. Late letters bearing an extra fee of sixponce. In addition to tho postage, will be received by the Mall Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. Tnis mail will be due in London on Tuesday, February 15, 1881.

Meetings, Entertainments, &c.

December 21, 1880.

Choral Hall—Mr R. A. Proctor's Astronomical Lecture, " Other Worlds than Ours," 8 pm.

Lome-street Hall—Pitt-street Sundaysohool Industrial Exhibition, 7 p.m.

Albert Hall—Catholic Bazaar in aid of St. Patriok's Cathedral Fund, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Theatre Royal—" Betsy." 8 p.m. St. Sepulchre's Church—Christmas Services, 7 p.m.

BIRTH.

KING.—On December 23, at Wyndham Cot tage, Wyndham-street, the wife ot G. W. Kincr, of a son.

SELBY.—At her mother's residence. Drury, on the 23rd December, Mrs Janes Selby of twin girls.

DEATH.

O'BRIEN.—On December 23, at his residence, Anbnrn-atreet, Kyber Pass, Francis O'Brien, late Royal Artillery; age 53. The funeral will leave his late residence, Auhurn-Btreet. to-morrow. 25th, at 3 o'clook. Friends pieaae accept thia invitation.

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

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 1880.

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

lections, and will bring to those with whom fortune lias dealt hardly a happier season in the present and more hopeful prospect for tlie future.

A VERY good instance of the sellisb and un. neighbourly policy of Victoria was discussed by the Committtee of tho Dunedin Cham ber of Commerce yesterday. The Com mittee had under consideration the proposed Intercolonial Conference, and several of the members appeared disposed to treat the scheme as John Bright treated the invita tion of the United States for British manufac turers to exhibit at Philadelphia. Mr Bright aaid it was ridiculous for Englishmen to soud productions which the Americans did their utmost to keep out of their markets by a prohibitory tariff. The Secretary of the Duncdin Chamber showed that whilo New Zealand is one of the best customers Vic toria has—importing during tho last eleven months no less than £382,649 worth of goods —she exports vory little to that colouy by way of exchange. Tho small export trade NowZealaud maintains with Victoria con sists of grain, and yet, within the last month or so, the Victorian Government has imposed an almost prohibitory duty on oats, alleging plainly as tho reason that her markets aro being Hooded by New Zealand oats. Such a proceeding cannot fail to excito a feeling of resentment in Now Zealand, and create a conviction that if satis factory commercial relations arc to be main tained between tho various colonies of the Australasian group theremustho reciprocity. Victoria is a wine-producing country, aud New Zealand, by a series of changes in her tariff, has favoured the Australian product abovo all other wmes. New Zealand, on the other baud, has a large surplus of grain for export, and Victoria returns our neigh bourly net by a mcasuro deliberately directed against this colony, Whoever tho delegate appointed by tho Government to attond tho Conference next month may bo, be ought to represent very strongly tho iujustice and radical illiborality of such a policy.

Un Monday next (Boxing Day), Sunday hours will be observed at all Telegraph OHicos throughout the Colony.

Concerning tho poor unfortunate widow from Picton, referred to in our issue last evening, a subscription] list has now beon opened (it the Star oflico to collect as much as shall get the poor woniiiii and her child buck again to Picton. At this season of tbe year, an appeal on behalf of so deserving an object should not fail. Auck land benevolence has never beon behind in any good case. Miss Laura Smith, of tho Woman's Institute, wili also receive donations.

A splendidly executed caricature of Mr It. A. Proctor, represented ns a globe juggler, was exhibited in Messrs Upton & Co.'s window this morning, and attracted much attention.

The members of tho Choral Society give a tree performance of solections from Handel's Messiah, on Sunday afternoon. The concert will commence at 3 o'clock, and finish not later than 4.4J5, so as uot to interfere with evening services. We have no doubt thoro will be a very large aud ap preciative audience.

Mr Allon, of Pukekura, passed through Hamilton with a mob of cattle purchased at Raglan yesterday. This speaks well lor the road.—" Waikato Times."

We hear (says the "Cambridge Mail") that there is to bo competition on the river. It is rumoured that two steady voting men have purchased the steamer Alert for the Cambridge trade,

The athlotes of Auckland nro on the tip-toe of expectation with reference to the foot-race between Messrs Maher and Tinning, which is to eventuate on tho Domain Cricket Ground to-morrow ('Xmas Day), at 4 p.m. Both men show splendid physiques, and their partisans arc by no moans loath to back their "fancy," The distances nro as follows :—IOO, 150, and 448 yards. Maher allowing the other gent. 4 yards, in the 100, oin tbe l. r.O, and 15 iv the quarter. If the weather is anyway propitious it is expected there will bo a largo concourse of spectators assembled to view the trial of speed.

I heard a story of Mrs Brassey the other day (says the correspondent of an Ameiicati paper), that smacked somewhat of the nouvelle elite in other parts of the world. Visiting a fashionable upholsterer's one afternoon, she saw a carved ivory chair. It was a rare work of art in its way, and, as a single specimen, would have graced tho drawing-room of any well-appointed house. Mrs B. asked the price. " Three hundred guineas," was the reply. " I'll tako it," answered Mrs B.; " but you must mako me eleven more to match it. I want a dozen."

At a meeting held in Now Plymouth resolutions were carried expressing regret that it is not the intention of the Govern ment to hold the salo of Parihaka land within the Taranaki County—at Now Plymouth, instead ot at Hawera. The meeting was of opinion that tho sale of the lnnd near New Plymouth will have greater political significance than if hold elsewhere, and to intending purchasers it is more easily inspected from the New Plymouth side.

Tne pupils attending tbe public school at Ellerslie were examined in spelling, recita tion, writing, &c, on Wednesday, 22ud inst., by Archdeacon Pritt, who expressed great satisfaction with the proficiency shown by tho children. The prizes given by the Committee were presented to tho successful candidates on the following day by Mrs Nolan, in the presence of many parents and friends of the juveniles, who were plentifully regaled with cakes, &c, after the conclusion of the ceremony, cheers wero heartily given for the School Committee, and also for the teacher, Mr It. Mitchell, and after singing "God Save the Queen," the happy crowd dispersed for the holidays.

It Is almost unnecessary to remind our readers that in the Choral Hall this even ing Mr Prnctor will deliver his farewell lecture. Those who have not heard the eminent author, astronomer, and lecturer, will only be able to take advantage of the popular tariff of charges fixed for this even ing ; but they will hear one of the best lectures of the course, "Other Worlds than Ours." It is in this lecture that Mr Proctor deals with the question about which such an exciting controversy raged more than .IO years ago, viz., whether or not only the planets aud tbeir satellites, but unknown worlds in the immeasurable depths of space, are or have been the abodes of life. Mr Proctor will also discuss the astronomical predictions of Dr. Knapp and other would-be prophets of the immediate, future, and will conclude his lecture wit|-r the recital of Jean Paul Richter's " Drea/ of the Universe." ..-*m

To the Editor: Sir,—On reading warning to the public last night " r dangers to be apprehended in thr -' r.° ""j tinned or canned meat, I fc'.' "SI. DS 0I honestly acted yonr part as ■ M tuat J™ making the facts known. F/ 4 jonmaliit in experience in the proce.*" ia T vln" ha. d 80me mitted to explain that t'- 68' J *"-* er: salts is used with tin m *{"* r? ason f s Plrlt9 of rosin or any thins el. M\ de-l ln F ef«,el-cc ™ powerful flux, causif e«»lts being the most with the greateat« ; n8 *•» Boldc, r *° adA erc it so much that dr* tenacity, and liquifying that is likely t **st or any foreignautatance out of the * ° Prevent adhesion is floated is so small, r W- The quantity required that no in ' iPP" en with a very small brush, proof, see ji™y cail. possibly happen. In hart T ' *'10 quantities used without any cited 5 .-be only explanation of the case you some * s» 'hat through the carelessness of „ o j.,- man or boy, or by accident, some acid £ o ], !nto the dish, and by long contact dis •d„ yed some of the tin coating of the can, .. It if this should occur, the liquid inside ■ would become black, discolour the meat, and give evidence tbat something was wrong. A little damp sugar left iv a tin ' dish for a time will produce the same colour 1 when hot water is added, or tea mado from water out of a rusty tank or tea-kettle.— Yours, &c, ROBERT Peace, Shortland street.

The annual examination of the Hender son's Mill School took placo in the school room on thc]2lst inst. Most of the childrens' friends were present. The Rev. Mr Sommerville, from the Whau, conducted the examination, and it was began and carried on to the finish in a pleasant and impartial manner. At the finish a vote of thanks was accorded to tho Roy. Sommerville, and the school chiidren gave him three hearty cheers. They also gave cheers for their teacher (Miss Hanson), and three more cheers for the Chairman and School Com mittee, and then went away with their friends to the woods to enjoy their usual picnic and other good things. The follow ing are the prizes awarded :—sth Class: I Mary Jane Malam, Ist prize, for all subjets ; I Kate Duncan, Ist prize, for free-hand draw •ing; Elizabeth Laurie, Ist prize, for map ; drawing. 4th Class : William Stebbings, list prize, for all subjects; William Hepburn, (2nd prize, for all subjects. 3rd Class: (Elizabeth Malam, Ist prize, tor all subjects; fAtthurStebbings, 2nd prize, for all subjects j Robert Laurie, prize, for good attendance; ijames Hepburn, prize, for good attendance ; I .John Laurie, prize, for good attendance. l)Por needlework; Kate Duncan, Ist prize, 'for needlework; Elizabeth Vercoe, 2nd Iprize, for needlework; Lilly Vercoe, 3rd , .'prize, for needlework.

Tho following ia the rota of attendance for the sittings of the Potty Sessions on December 28 .-—Messrs T. Henderson, J. H. Home, E. Isaacs, B. Ireland, H. M. Jervis, T. B. Kenderdine, G. S. Kiasling, D. H. Lusk, J. May, B. Mac Lean, C. 0. McMillan H. do C. Martelli, J. McKlwain, T. Macffarlane.

The Evangelistic service conducted by Mrs Sampson in St. James's Hall was" well attended last uight, and a fair number of "anxious enquirers" remained for the after meeting.

The Sisters ot Mercy return their best thanks to Jas. Larkius Esq., of (Larkins and O'brieu Railway Contractors) for tho kind donation of three pounds, and to Mr Chiistopher Gallagher, for a donation of one pound, to provide a Christinas treat for the Orphans at Mount St. Mary.

The annual exatriuation of the Cam bridge public school waa conducted by the Rev. Mr Bull and tho Rev. Mr Willis. In addition to the books provided by the Com mittee, the following special prizes wore givon :—By Sergeant-Major Heaney, for tho most popular lad in the school; by Mrs Hughes, for the most popular girl; by Mr Isaacs, for the boy who does best iv arith metic for his age ; ami two prizes by the teacher, Mr Stewart, for tho best attend ance during tho year—ono to be competed for by boys, and tho other by girls, The attendance (luring the year has increased about 35 per eout.

The case ot Isaacs v. Bailey, claim £2 Bs, being » claim for pillows, etc., belonging to a yacht, owned by Mr laanca, but which defendant professed to consider his own property aa included in the sale, was nt lirst adjourned for tho production of n written specification proving; tbo right of plaiiitill' to tho pillows. This was subse quently produced to the satisfaction of the Court, and judgment was given for plaintiff. Mr A. E. Whitaker represented plaintiff, and Mr Theo. Cooper tlio defendant.

Tbo programmo to be submitted at No. 3 Company's concert in tho Choral Hall on Monday woek, January 3rd, will be one of tlie bost put before tlio public for some time. In tho lirst part, Dean's Minstrels will appear in their refined minstrel scene, uud tlio second part will consist of ballads, duets, etc., by Miss.May Hastings, Miss GribUc, Mihß Thompson, and Mobkib Richards, Rylantl, Dalhoiiu, Lcedliam, Dean, and several others. A bull will follow tho concert.

A cricket mutch will bo played on the Domain ground to-morrow aftornoon be tween tho Third Eleven West End and Alpha Clubs. Play to commence at 2 p.m. sharp. West End : Messrs Woods, Berry, Simms, Baxter, Stovin, Courtayne. Davy, linker, C. Butler, Lewis, and King. Alpha : Messrs Jackson, Cooper, Kilpatnck, Edmis ton, C'anch, Hay, MclJermott, Cutler, Hughes, White, aud Done.

A considerable number of the shops and business premises iv and about town arc decorated to-day with foliage and Christmas llowers, while tho urowdod stato of the thoroughfares proclaims loudly our near propinquity to the holiday season of tho year. The interchange of tlie time-honoured compliments is general and thero is prevalent also a feeling of content aud satisfaction, which may bo accepted as indicalivo of domestic comfort. Wc fool assured that in tho universal enjoyment the poor and tho suffering (for they aro always with ua) will not be forgotteu.

Tlio annual distribution of prizes at the close of the session of the Flat Rush District School, took placo ou Wednesday. Thero was a large number of parents aud friends o£ the pupils present. The school was gaily decorated with (lowers, ferns, Nikau palm, and other trophies of the bush. The Rev. J. Law, from Onehunga, presided, and after a few appropriate remarks presented the prizes. The whole proceedings wero pervaded by an atmosphere of generosity, iiood feeling, and enthusiasm. A number of pris.es, kindly subscribed for by Dr Carter, of Flat Rush, were also awarded to both senior and junior scholars for running and jumping. After tho distribution of prizes tho children were supplied with refreshments which included, besides somes substantial articles of diet, a choice variety of cake, for which the Flat Rush ladies arc so justly famous. Hearty cheers wero culled for and givon by the scholars for tho Key. J. Law, Dr. Carter, Miss Minnie Crago, the teacher, the Chairman and School Committee, nud tho ladies who provided the provisions.

At the Beresford-street School City West No. 2, thero was au entertiiinnient last evening, which, in spite of the rain, was fairly attended. The teachers'had taste fully decorated the room with evergreens and llowers. The chair was occupied hy Mr Gorric, Chairman of tho City School Committee. The two brothers Neumegen opened the entertainment with a duct on tho pianoforte, aud exhibited brilliant manipulation of the '-Maud Waltz." The Chairman next addressed tho meeting, und commented on the apathy shewn iv the election of a School Commitee, as con trasted with the earnest interest in education displayed in tho Middle Island. He also referred to the large attendance at educational meetings in the South aa an evidence of the importance with which tho subject is viewed. He trusted that at the next election there would be such an atten dance of ratepayers as would serve to prove that the Committee really represented the intelligent portion of the community. The entertain ment consisted of readings, sougs, recitations, and part songs. Mr Bruce was the pianist, and MrGradwell conducted the vocal portion of the programme. Mr Harri son, the painstaking head master of tho School, is to bo congratulated on tho success which attended his efforts, and we trust that the result will bo such as to reward tho deserving students In this clliciontly managed institution,

The Turkish Baths will be open to-mor row (Chriatmas Day) from 7 to 11 a.m.

The Catholic Bazaar will be continued on Mondar evonicg in the Albort Hall, oponing at 7 o'clock.

The breakfast meeting will be held lo morrow (Christmaal morning in the rooma of the Young Men*' Chriati-m Aaeociation. Tho Rev. R. Taylor will preßido at the meeting to be held after breakfast. A good gathering is ox pected. Tho übubl Satnnlaynightßibleroading will not be given on account ot the holiday.

The Key. Thomas Buddie will—on Sun day evening next—preach Mra M.Sommerville'B funeral t<ervlcc. No doubt a very largo congre gation will bo prspent. '1 horo will be service on Christmas morning in the' Pittatroct Church. Key. MrDewsbury will preach. V

The Hobson Band will accomnar/' th City of Cor* on ho,-excursion ♦» CfXfSr,., „! Monday next which will l^,"* J*™£ "K U*S? attraction of the trip. 'r*u" ,£ J£??2.J2_ &S wh.rf at 10 a.m., _&._"! 0 8i*^ e* *°t_?pVE nf fnrir hia i* J. «*■"* returns at. 6 p.m. The City hern»„__ -ue advantage of being ablo to lana BhoiiW.*^**'«or9 on tlle i3land without aid of boats. jj[n%s3 t''° weather prove unfavourahlo for •VTotapu, tho steamer will go to Eist TamakL /fr The Archhill Sunday School (*ree j Methodist) will hold Its anniversary on Sunday. Mr G. Hemns gives the a' dresi In the aftornoon, and Roy. lt. Taylor preaches In tho evening.

The date for holding tho Christmas Tree entertainment in connection with tho St. Stephen's Orphan's Home, Parnoll, has b6*-n necessarily postponed, but duo notioe will bo given of the date whon it will be given. Wo notice with pleasure from our adver tising columna (whero full partioulars may be obtained) that tho congregations of St. Matthew and St. Thomas aro invited to a picnio on Tuesday next. Bllerslle Gardens 1b tho chosen spot, so that, aaamuaomentiot ovory publio kind are provided for " old children " aa wollaa joungonea—and bb Impey's band will move to a danoe—wo propheoy a large accept ance ot tho invitation, and a full measure of enjoyment. A Grand Match at Hand-Ball will bo played Tomorrow, at tho Court attached to Gleeson's Hotol, foot of Hobson- Btreet. between the 1 best ployerß of Auokland, for £10 aside. Tho eamo commences at 2.30 p.m., and tho names of tho contestants are Holy and Hogan, against Murphy and another. To prevent overorowding a charge of one shilling admission will bo made.

Latest from Te Aroha.

SATISFACTORY CRUSHINGS,

(BY TELEGRAM, VIA GRAHAMSTOWN.)

The half ton which the manager took to the Thames from the reef in the Waikato Claim, Te Aroha, is expected to yield at the rate of over an ounce to the tou.

Shareholders ot the Prosperity consider the result of the recent trial crushing, lCdwts trom 11 cwt, highly satisfactory. Mr Thomson, Superintendent of Police, arrived at Tc Aroha last evening for tho purposo of selcctiug a site for a polico building.

The Yacht Taniwha.

Our readers will no doubt bo pleased to learn that the yacht Taniwha, built by Messrs Niccol to represent Auckland at the forthcoming Melbourne Regatta, has reached her destination safely. A cable gram from Mr T. Niccol conveys the intelligence that she arrived at Quccnsclifi'e, Melbourne Heads, yester day afternoon, and that rough wea ther and calms were experienced on tho passage across. A message was also received . this afternoon from Reuters Agency, stating that the little craft has arrived in tho Ray, The Taniwha left Auckland on Saturday, Deucmber 4th, under the charge of Captain Press, and the trip has therefore occupied 19 days. The re gatta at which it is intended that she shall compete takes place about three weeks hence, and the result of tho yacht raco will be awaited hero with considerable iu tercst,

Robbery by Natives.

[FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.]

OHINEMJTU, this day. Two. natives have robbed a Surveyor's Camp ou the Cambridge-Rototua Road. They are well-known, ono of them beiug | a resident iv the Ohiuemutu. It is reported ' that the Government have issued orders that no action is to be taken against the robbers. STOPPAGE OP A SURVEY. Tho Survey of the township was stopped by Tuhouranai on Monday, the opposition party forcibly taking possession of the Surveyor's materials on Wednesday evening. Mr Henry Mitchell succeeded in inducing tho Tuhourangi natives to return the property, and the Survey is now likely to go on peaceably. Had it not been for Mr Mitchell's persoual influence, the whole survey would have been stopped. Thero is a decidedly bad teeling iv this district. Any action of the present Government is looked upon with suspicion.

Amusements.—Last Night.

THEATRE ROYAL,

THE sparkling comedy of "Betsy " was per formed last night at tho Theatre Royal in the presence of a large assemblage of persons. Thi3 play is not now to the Auckland public, it having been represented previously by the Lingards, but never with greater success than last night, and that it was thoroughly appreciated tho frequent plaudits of the livelier passages fully proved. Mr Liugard presented Dawkins in a realistic light • and iktsy was fortunate in having such an inter preter as Mrs Lingard, who portrayed all the peculiarities and shados of Betsy's character witn true effect. Mr Craig made the most of Willie St. Paul; aud Mr Camp bell dealt fairly with the baby's friend, Charles Atkina. Mr St. Paul was an excel lent portrait by Mr Overton, whilst Mr J. B. Steele, as Captain McManus, was quite a triumph, and worthy the ovation which followed. Altogether, tho light comedy of "Betsy" is unique, humourous, and ex ceedingly laughable. We notico that it will bo repeated this evening, and readers who can enjoy a hearty laugh should not miss the opportunity of witnessing this pretty comedy. On Boxing Night will be produced for tho first time the comedy "Our Friends," played 1,100 nights in London, and pro duced with unqualified success by the Lon don Comedy Company in Australia. The comedy has boon well mounted aud is sure to be a very big draw.

CATHOLIC BAZAAR.

This excellent bazaar formed ono of tho more promincut of amusements, and re ceived a largo share of public patronago laat evening. The members of the Hobson Band performed a numbor of national airs and selection!- during the evening, which, no doubt, had agratifyiug inlluoncc. Tho friends nro exerting themselves in overy legitimate way, in order to the financial success of tho undertaking, and they are progressing with an art union of 100 sub scribers at £ I each tor a suite of furniture and a number ol paintings nnd pictures on Mrs Greenwood's stall, which has proved nuo of tho most successful of tho stalls. The takings of this stall last evening was £30, which was eminently satisfactory. The ladies at the various stalls nro exceedingly courteous, without that uuduo coaxing of persons to buy, which is the custom of some bazaars. Tho Catholic fancy fair was re opened to-day at tho usual hour, and this evening fresh novelties and amusements will be introduced.

This bazaar has been numerously visited to-day, and the stalls liberally patronised. Wo notice that His Graco the Archbishop and Father Walter Macdonald are daily visitors and evince much interest in the general proceedings, The fact that Mr Jobsou takos friends from Ponsonby buck to their homes by his omnibus at the closing of tho bazaar deserves Bpccial mention.

Iv nil probability the Catholic Bazaar will be kept open on Monday evening.

PIIT-STREET WESLEYAN SUNDAY SCHOOL EXHIBITION.

The abovo bazaar was opened again last evening. The attendance was not bo large as anticipated, owing to some extent to the threatening weather. Last night the ex hibits could bo bettor seen, and when closely inspected they wero well worthy of nny attendance. As we specified many of the choice articles yesterday, it is now only necessary to say that all who have not visited the exhibition should go this even ing. The cost is small, and apart from the exhibition the concert was worthy of the amount paid. It Is hoped that every friend of the cause will visit the place, and thus strengthen the hands of the teachers.

PONSONBY CHRISTMAS TREE.

Tho Wcslcyan Christmas tree entertain ment in tho Ponsonby Hall waa largely successful, not less than 400 persona attend ing in the course of the evening. Rev 11. K. Dewsbury occupied the chair, and gave the opening addrees, explanatory of the object of tlie gathering, namely, to find funds for the children's annual Chriatmas treat, to bo held on Mr Allen's proporty, Mount Albert. Mr Stephenson, Sunday school Superintendent, was the manaecr ot the entertainment and the master of the Albert tree, which bent with the weight of toys and curios. Miss Goodacre presided at the piano, and accompanied the vocalists. Among the singers were Mrs Bettany, Mrs Goodieon, and Messrs Carter, Goodison, and Horsley. Mr Banbury distributed the Christmns gifts amid much rejoicing. The meeting broke up at 10 o'clock.

FRANKLIN ROAD SOIREE.

A complimentary tea was given last evening in Franklin Road schoolroom to the Rev. John Nixon, minister of the chapel, by tho members of tho senior class of Sunday scholars, and which was well attended. The tea was provided by a committee of Bible students, under the superin tendenco of George K. Warburton and John Cleale. Mr Joseph H. Jones occupied tho chair and stated, in a neat speech, th_.. o ' t jeet of the social gatherer;"'Vhic_ was given as a comp!m.^f^ h Mr Nixon ia aoknowkdgejftg^t^ hh urbacity andkind n,e-°« to "the young men of the senior class. R'ov. J. Nixon replied at some length, and referred to pleasant events during the two years he had laboured amongst them, aud which would uot soon fade from his memory. He congratulated them on their happy meeting, which he trusted would not be (the last. Raymond Hahn, Esq., of Weortemburg, made a humorous speech on " Churches and Parsons," but wo have not space for Mr Halm's brilliant oratiou which described the young German girls walking to the village Church, along pathways gemmed with violets and bediamonded with dewdrops. The Excelsior Glee Club sang two glees, and several ballads were sang with effect, Mr Parker accompanist. Tbe room was gaily decorated with flowers nnd evergreeus, in accordance with the sea son.

AUCKLAND CHORAL SOCIETY. "THE MESSIAH."

The annual performance to subscribers last evening comprised the first part of this oratorio, with selections trom the Becond part, and the air, "I Know that my Re deemer Liveth," The chorus mustered fairly to numbers, and the band was even more than usually efficient under the alto leadership of Mr Hemus. A very marked improvement was discernablo in the even ness with which the overture and pastoral symphony was played, and except in one or two instances the accompaniment of the solos was both accurate and not too loud. Of the choruses, some were sung better than we ever heard them from the Society, viz., "And the Glory," "And He Shall Purify," "Glory to God," "Lift Up Your Heads." Others, such as "He Trusted in God," "His Yoke is Easy," were unsteady and weak. The solos were allotted as fol lows :—Treble : Ist part, Mrs Mitchell; 2nd part, Mrs Judson. Alto : Mrs Alice Glover, lenor : Ist part, Mr Forth ; 2nd part, Mr Rurnham. Bass; Mr Gordon Gooch. Tholast-uamedgeutlomau proved thoroughly successful in every part ol the music allotted to him, His effective rendering of the friesto, " For He is like a Refiner's Fire," were thoroughly appreciated. We look forward to a better rendering of " Why do the Natures," on Sunday next, when it is hoped the band and the conductor's baton will he more steady. Mrs Mitchell's delivery of the pastoral recitative was ex quisitely simple and sweet. Mrs Judsou gave intense religious expression to her rendering of the sublime air, " 1 know that my Redeemer Liveth." Mr3 Alice Glover's singing of the sorrowful air, " He was Despised," was full of feeling and grace. Mr Forth made a successful I debut in the opening solo "Comfort Ye." He has a sweet voice and will become a useful singer. Mr Rurnham, after a first shade of nervousness, threw much expres sion into the pathetic muaic assigned to him, and sang better than ever wo heard him. Altogether the performance was fairly successful 1 but we must again point out that the solos are not sufficiently re hearsed. A free publio performance of selections for the oratorio will be givon next Sunday afternoon, beginning at three o'clock, when a large audience may be expected to attend. '

CABLEGRAMS.

_jUJftC\P]E!AN.

[R.KUTEB'S TELEGRAMS.]

ENGLISH COMMERCIAL.

LONDON, December 23. Three per cent. Consols, 99J. Adelaide and New Zealand bread-stuffs unchanged at last quotations, viz., Adelaide wheat ex warehouse, 49s Gd ; New Zealand wheat ex ship. 44s ; Adelaide flour ex warehouse, 355; Australian tallow, best beef, 33s Gd; best mutton, 3Gs; New Zealand securities, 5 percent. 10-40 loan, 103; 5 per cent, 1880 loan, 107; 4^ per cent.] 1879-1904 loan, 96,-f.

(PER MEKCHAKT SHIPPING UNDERWRITERS ASSOCIATION.)

LONDON, December 13.

Arrived : Invercargill, from Port Chal mers, September 20th ; Bygdo, from Wel lington, September 23rd ; Aberueyte, from Lyttelton, September 24th.

THE BASUTO WAR.

LONDON, December 23,

Latest intelligence to hand from tlie Cape states that the Umrhlouliloand the Basutos have been completely routed, and have fled. The Boors made a fierce attack on Potchef stroom, but no details arc vet to hand as to the result.

KESIGNATION OF THE VICEROY. CALCUTTA, December 23.

The Marquis of Kipon has now re covered. He has resigned his position as Viceroy of India, and will most probably leave at au early date for England.

AMERICAN GRAIN MARKET. NEW YORK, December 23.

Tho grain panic which took place nt Chicago has now subsided.

GREECE BELLICOSE. LONDON, Decembor 23,

The Great Powers have accepted tho proposal made by Em-land to arbitrate between Greece aud Turkey, but tho former has declined to agree to the same,

AUSTRALIAN.

THE TANIWHA. MELBOURNE, Friday. Tbo Auckland yacht Taniwha has arrived in the Bay. VICTORIAN ARTILLERY. The Legislative Assembly last night passed a resolution in favour of disbanding tlie Victorian Artillery force. Iv the walking tournament now proceed ing Swan, of New Zealand, is first, with 111 milos; Seymour and Baker have each done 107 miles,

POLICE COURT.—THIS DAY.

(Beforo R. C. BARSTOW, Esq., R.M.)

SPIRITS OF THE DAWN,

Eleven individuals, male and female, pleaded guilty to drunkenness, ond wero subjected to the penalty of too law. Mary Carmichael, and Peter Strasbcrg, very old offenders, were sent to prison for seven days. ADSENT IN BODY. William Smith, a seaman, waa charged with being absent without leave from the British barque Dunloe on the 24th inst. Prisoner pleaded guilty. He had been drinking. Fined 7s and take 14 days' hard labour. CH ARGUS AGAINST SAMUEL BROWN. Samuel Brown was placed in tho dock to answer to three seperate charges of felony. (1.) For breaking and eutcriug the ware house of Henry Waite, of Fort-street, in the month of November last, and stealing there from a qantity of ware, value £2 10s. (2.) With stealing trom the restaurant of William Davin Dallen, of Queen-street, in March last, 8 table-knives, 28 forks, and 48 spoons, value £7 10s. (3.) With stealing 35 table-knives, 6 forks, aud 3G spoons, from the dining-rooms of Edward Waters, of Queen-street, in April last, valuo £G 7s Gd. Mr Tyler appeared for defendant. He said the man had a large circle of acquaint ances here, and those who knew him were of tho opinion that he was not responsible for his actions, or in law phraseology, was "insane." He was a mau of means, and had a very comfortable home, but during the past few yeara had pursued a very strange course. He had even behaved unkindly to his family. For somo weeks past he had occupied his time during the day in furnishing a building in Fort-street, auil it was moat elaborately dove. Brandy labels and curious framework formed pro minent features. But he was of opinion that all now required was for His Worship to appoint two medical men to examine the prisoner and report. His Worship mado an order accordingly that Drs. Goldsbro' and Kenderdine be instructed to examine defendant as to his sanity. Mr Tyler asked that the case might now be remanded until 3 o'clock ou Tuesday afternoou, when Dr. Goldsbro', who was at present out of town, would be abli to be present. His Worship agreed to remand the case till Tuesday, and allowed hail in £100, and two sureties of £50 each.

This was all the business.

Scintillations.

"Be brief: fcr It is win words as with sun beams: the mora they nro o-mdenßed, tho deeper they burn."— Soutiiky.

Eggs wero very scarce in town to-day. Herr Baudmann has made a good start ai Inveicargill.

The fashionable colour continues to be old gold. Even freckles are of that colour.

Christchurch is pteparing a great Fire Brigade Demonstration with coloured tires and torch-lights for Monday.

Cats havo no fixed political belief. They are usually on the fence. _ > _.- Oue swallow^es^uoUji^-^; summe r, -Wu. evcr^grttesbopper makes a spring. Homo is the dearest place on earth—when tho wife strives to keep ahead of all her neichbours iv style.

The "next" pupil who spellsd chimney correctly whs told by kis teacher to go up one—but didn't want to.

Mr P. Booth was rescued in an uncon scious state from his cottage at Kaiapoi, which was burned down yesterday. Mr Rolleston will accompany tho Go vernor on his tour.

Tho Christchurch Cathedral is progress ing, and the first contract for the steeple is finished.

A gumdigger, named O'Connor, has been burned to death in his whare at Chiuaman's Landing, Kaihu Creek. Mrs Blake has written an essay on " The Disadvantage of Being Pretty." Most girls are good-natured, and willing to put up with the disadvantages.

A devoted "better half" who has it all her own way, says that a good matrimonial firm Is one that consists of three-quarters wife, and one quarter husband. Three brides at one table at au Atlantic city hotel ate between them tbe other day ouo spoonful of soup, five green peas, three string beans and a small pieco of pie.

An immense number of persons lauded at the wharf from coasting steamers yester day and to-day. They were principally from the gumfields and goldfields. A horrible accident occurred near Christ church yesterday, when a man working in a wool-scouring place had his leg torn off at the knee, through getting entangled in the machinery.

Mrs Martha Wymond and her nephew, P. A. Wymond, have been remanded from Christchurch to IS elßon, on a charge of making away with goods in the bankrupt estate of T. S. Wymond, ot Nelson.

The application made by the plaintiff in the Blenheim libel case, Griffiths v. John ston, for a rehearing has been refused by Mr Justice Johnston. The newspaper man therefore comes off triumphant. The Compensation Court at Blenheim has awarded the Wcsleyan Church £1,050, and Fell Bros. £7,050 for laud taken lor railway purposes. The Government had offered much less.

Mr Standish, at Now Plymouth yester day, expressed the regret of the bar at the removal of Mr District Judge Shaw to Wel lington. His Honor, in replying, said he had no doubt the prevalent eood feeling would be continued to his successors, Mr District Judge Hardcastle, and Mr Parsons, R.M.

A profound sense of relief pervaded the city this morning when it became known, through the leading columns of the "Herald," that "we are no Germans suspicious of French attack, or Frenchmen eagerly waiting the opportunity of revenge." Our youngest imp, however, was not affected in the slightest degree by the startling intelligence, but declared that his bosom friend, the bosun of H.M. Pinafore, had been ruthlessly plagiarised by the "Herald" man; for did not that nautical celebrity give emphasis to the same excellent sentiment when he exclaimed :—

He is an Englishman, For himself nas said It, And ita greatly to hia credit. That he is an Englishman I For ho might havo been a Rooßian, A French, or Turk, or Prousian, Or, perhaps, 1 tal-i-an I Bat in spite of all temptations, To belong to other nations, He remains an Englishman !

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Christmas, with its merry-making, good things, excursions, and happy memories, is again encircling us iv the living present. The shops in Queen and other streets indicate the season by displays ot green boughs, Christmas flowers, mutton and beef, jewellery, and a thousand ornaments, and complimeutary cards, suitable for Christmas gifts. 'Ihe people have already anticipated the season in a variety of ways, aud some ot tlie city dressmakers have boen so over burdened with silken preparations tbat their fingers, like angel voices, have ceased not day nor night. We briefly notice the amusements of the coming Christmas.

CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICES.

The following are the service*' to be held to-morrow, as far as we have been able to gather :—

8t Paul's Church—Services, 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. St Sepulchre's Church—.Services, 11a.m. 7 p.m. St Patrick's Cathedral-Services 11 a.m. 7 p.m. Pitt street Wr.Bleyan Church—Service. 7 a.m. V.M.C.A. Kooma— breakfast Meeting, 7 a.m. Wellesley-street Baptist Church—Floral Ser vice, 11 a.m. Primitive Methodist Church, Alexandra-3treet —Services, 11 a.m. St Luke's Church—Service, 11 a.m, St James's Hull—Address, by Mra Hampson, 7.30 a.m. Theatre Royal—Sacred Concert, 8 p.m.

BOXING DAY EXCURSIONS.

The following excursions will take place, vessels starting from the wharf: —P.S. City of Cork, to Motutapu or Tamaki, Hobsons Band iv attendance, 10 a.m. The b.b. Rose Casey, to Hot Springs, Artillery Band, 10 a.m. The p.s. Comeraug, at 10 a.m., to Motutapu, Band in attendance. The s.s. Rotomahana to Kawau, 10 a.m. The s.s. Coromandel, to East Tamaki, Captain llargrave, 9 a.m. The s.s. lona, to Hot Springs, Waiwera, 10 a.m. Tho s.s. Glenchr, to Kawau, at 10 a.m. The s.s. Argylej to Motutapu, at 10 a.m. The s.s Waitaki, to Kawau, at 10a.m., and the p.s. Enterprise to the Lake, at 9-30 p.m.

BOXING DAY AMUSEMENTS.

Lorne-streit Hall.—Concert aud Ball in connection with the Victorian Rifles, and under the patronage of leading citizens aud officers of tbo Volunteer Companies and brigades. We nutice that several of the members of Deau's popular' Minstrels will tako a leading part in the concert, which will add vocally to its several attractions. Doors open at 7.30. p.m. Albert Hall.—A grand masquerade ball is announced to take place in thia hall at 10 o'clock, at which hour dancing will be commenced under au efficient M. C. Ladies not admitted without masks.

TBMPJJRANCE Halo.—The Foresters, Court City of Aucklaud, will celebrate their seventeenth anniversary by a soiree, concert and ball. Tea on the table at 6.30., concert at 7.30., and dancing at 9. p.m. Tho programme is specially attractive, drawn up by the enterprising committee. TIIBATRB Royal.—The Lingard Com pany announco tho grand comedy of " Our Friends," for the evening, commenc iug at 8 o'clock. This comedy will be new to Auckland play-goers, and, in several respects, ia adapted to tho Christmas season,

Wellesley-street Baptist Picnic.— Ihe members of Rev. A. W. Webb's Bible Class |will take un excursson by the p.s. Tongariro to Mr Buckland's wharf, starting at 8.30 a.m. Hot water will be provided for excursionists.

The Printing Tenders.

A CITY COUNCIL BREEZE,

When the tenders for printing, which had beeu referred to the Finance Committee, came up before the City Council, last night, the Mayor explained that after a careful calculation, based upon the probable quantities required, it had been found that Mr H. Brett's tender was the lowest, being £90 Is 6d, while Messrs Wilsons and Horton's was £93 19s 6d, and Mr W. Atkins, £95 Gd. In this computation some of tho items in the specifications had not been included be-' cause it was improbable that they would form a part of the year's requirements. He had beeu rather surprised that a greater dif ference did not exist between the prices. The estimates for the smaller items wore remark ably close, the difference being not more than live per cent., while for the larger items it was as much as 100 per cent.

Councillor Goldie moved, " That the tender of Mr Brett be accepted, and that the whole matter of future tendering for printing be referred to the Finance and General Purposes Committee." He had been considerably surprised at the sudden reduction in Mr Atkins prices under the iniluence of competition, Iv two years, the amount which tbe gentleman had re ceived from his contract was £546 13a 9d, or an average of £270 per annum, while this year he was actually prepared to supply the same things for a trifle over £90.

The Mayor : That is exclusive of several items in the tender and calculating the probable quantities required. Councillor Goldie thought the whole thing had rather a strange complexion. He then proceeded to go through various items on the schedule, Bhowing that Mr Atkin was now contracting for them at prices fully 50 per cent, lower than those he had previously charged, while iv oue case (that of small envelopes) Mc Brett's tender was 50 per cent, leas than that again. Yet, in the faco of these things, the Town Clerk reported to them at their last meeting tbat Atkin was once more the lowest tenderer.

The Town Clerk denied this statement, saying that the informatiou then given was supplied by Messrs Eller and ■ Payne, and for which he was not responsible. The Mayor explained that the prices had been totted up iv the office, and after the result had been submitted to him he dis covered a discrepancy in the sum. Thus two of the.tenderers^ had grouped four items | togSth'er and put a total price against "them, while in the other case the prices had been given separately. Councillor Goldie wont on to point out that during 1879 fully 30,000 of these en velopes had beeu used, 27,000 of which passed through the Town Clei k's department being an average of one hundred per day, exclusive of Sunday or holidays. It might be said that some of theso remained iv stock for the next year, but that supposi tion was disposed of by the fact that on the twelfth day of the next year (1880) a further instalment of 5000 envelopes was procured. He'desired to direct particular attention to item No. 68 (Builders' Permit Books), inas much as a certain amount ot significance was attached to it. Mr Atkin tendered for them this year at 5s per book, and yet lost year he was paid 31s Gd a book, for some, the meaning of the singular reduction beiug that he knew full well that none would be required during the ensuing year. Then, too, the fact that certain things which had been tendered for by the hun dred should have been supplied by the thousand demanded some explanation. In the interests of the ratepayers these matters required to be cleared up. They should be referred to a Committee with a view to an examination upon the^ollowiog subjects : — (Ist) Whether any instructions were left by the Town Clerk with any officer of the Council as to the information that was to be furnished by them to intending tenderers; if so, what was the nature of it! (2) What orders have been given to the present con tractor for printing during the last three months? What is the character ot the work so ordered, if any, and whether such work is intended for immediate use or not ? (3) Is it a fact that the present contractor has orders for printed materials which it is probable will not be required for something like two years • if so, why was it ordered ? (4) Whether, on the morning after the tenders had been opened by the Council and referred to the Town Clerk to report upon^ he sent for Mr Atkin; if so, for what object; and, further, were communications sent at tbe samo time to the other tenderers. (5) Whether the statement made at the last Council meeting thai Mr Day had worked out the figures submitted on that occasion had any foundation in fact. (6) Whether in some items in which the present contrac tor appears to be very much below the retual value of tho work to be done, he was aware that such work, though tendered for, would not be required duriug the term of the present contract, and whether such information was supplied to other tenderers so as to enable them to compete with him.

Councillor Offer had much pleasure in seconding the motion. After the statements which had been made the matter certainly ought to go before some Committee in order to be looked into.

The Mayor remarked that the motion embodied two distinct questions, and he therefore thought that they should be put .separately.

Councillor Fleming suggested that notice of motion should be given of the second clause.

The Mayor expressed regret tbat matters of the kiud leferrcd to by Councillor Goldie had been brought up in the way they had, aud that so mauy insinuations should have been thrown out. The second part of the motion asked for an enquiry into the con duct of the officers, and he considered that proper notice should be given of such a resolution. He would therefore ask Coun cillor Goldie to divide his proposition.

Councillor Goldie submitted that th. course which he had adopted was perfectly in order. They received a certain oftenders-thoy were referred to tho Town Clerk, and he had reported that Atkiu? s was the lowest. v s The Town Clerk claimed the protection of the chair. The statement just made Z. both incorrect and untruthful. The fiem were totted up iv the office, and the mi« S take which was made was not his. Coun cillor Goldie's statement was ungenerous and quite uncalled for. s <

The Mayor said that it was wrona f n . Councillor Goldie to bring such charges in that loose and irregular way An error hnH certainly been made in making the calcula tiou, but looking at the simple way in which it had occurred, one could hardly b justified in imputing motives.

Councillor Thompson observed that h. was as anxious as anyone that impronpr motives should not be imputed to the officer without cause, and while he would not _v that the mistake referred to was a wilfni one, still they should notforget that the error had very nearly been tho means of their accepting a tender which was not the lowest Councillor Waddel had actually proposed aud another Councillor had seconded the acceptance of Atkins teuder, Certainly there was blame to be attached to the officers for not giving the matter mora attention.

Councillor Offer corroborated the state ment regarding Councillor Waddel's motion He had seconded it.

The Mayor Baid that the irregularity of which ho complained consisted in insinuations that the mistake had been mado wilfully, and for a purpose. That was tho disorderly part of the business lt was quite improper to insinuate that tha error was part of a scheme to favour any particular contractor. He hoped that Coun. cillor Goldie would allow the simple que»! tion to be put, " That Mr Brett's tender be accepted." The other part could be brought up again by notice of motion. " Councillor Goldie did not see any advan tage in such a course. In any case the matter was bound to go to a committee and why not at once ? He had given en'onsh reasons for sending it to a committee.' Councillor Crowther was very glad that it was proposed to enquire into the system of tendering for printing. He could recol lect as well as if the circum stance had transpired that day the state ment ot Mr Brett during his term of Mayoralty, that while the work had to be tendered for after the present method they would get no tenderers. Subsequent events bad chown the truth of it. At that time some insinuations were thrown out as to the mode of tendering. The question of tender iug by quautities embraced a great deal of information os importance. The library business had astouished bim, and it was part and parcel of the same thing. The Mayor called the gentleman to order Councillor Crowther went on to say that his remark might be out of order, but still it was very much in place. When that was stated to them he thought something was wrong, and now facts aud figures were speaking to them in a manner which strengthened that opinion. He would support the motion He did not believe in articles being got i tt sixes, sevens, or tens, in order to favor a particular man.

The Mayor characterised this as one of the objectionable insinuations to which he had referred. If this were allowed allega. tions of corruption and jobbery would ao forth to the world before the proposed enquiry was made. He would move the two clauses of the resolution separately Councillor Crowther objected. Councillor Goldie, upon being requested by the Mayor to give notice of the second clause, said tbat he could not as he would be absent from Auckland for.two months after that meeting. The first clause, viz. that Mr Brett's tender be accepted, was then put and carried.

The Mayor again expressed his reluctance to put the second part. Councillor Goldie said that if it was not put it would have to drop. He was not going to reopen the matter after the lapse of two months.

The Town Clerk hoped that the matter would not be allowed to drop. Imputations had been made against him that night, and he therefore asked Councillor Goldie to give notice of his motion.

Councillor Offer considered that in the interests of all parties the matter should not be allowed to drop. If the officers were In his employment and such charges as had been made could be proved he would sack the whole lot of those concerned, v. Councillor Thompson thought as Council lor Goldie was going to leave the city it was better to depart from the usual rule and allow him to move his proposition at once.

The Mayor ruled the motion out of order. I

Councillor Goldie: In that caw I won't go any further with it. I will let the matter rest. ~,

This closed the discussion,

Court of Enquiry.

On the continuation of the inquiry this forenoon, Mr Tyler addressed the Court at some length, maintaining that the captain of the Kina was not to blame for the collision. Anything that happened, he was of opinion, through the mate's negligence should not be laid to the captain's charge. The steamer was as far over towards the beach as she could reasonably be expected to go. The captain had to endeavour to meet the train at Riverhead at the proper time. The mate had his eye on the vessel all the time, and thought' she would.go about in time to prevent any: accident. If anyone was responsible it was the mate,' who should have informed the Captain of the nearness of the cutter. Another reason why the mate did not inform the captain was because he saw someone stoppiug on board the cutter and looking under the boom, which he thought i sigh that sbiie effort was to be made to go about." Then there was clearly some negligence on the the part of the captain of the cutter, for he admitted himself that he made no attempt to avoid a collision, whereas the captain of the Kina immediately had the engines reversed. After all the damage was not much—only a matter of £14 or £15. :■

The Court was of opinion that the cap tain ot the Ellen Curran was in no way in fault, and that the captain of the steamer Kina was. He ought to have kept a better look out than he did, and he might have gone astern of the cutter; he also doserved repremanding for , throwing the tow-rope overboard. The Court must order the cer tificate ot Captain Hedges to be sus pended for six months, and that damages be paid bvhim, ... • . ~-.' ~ * ____ '■■'— 4-i/!.l

DUTY ON KAURI GUM.

At the meeting of the Waste Lands Board yesterday, Mr _ irth spoke some .length on the advisability of imposing a duty of £1 per ton on kauri gum. He said, as the Board were aware, they had from time to time sold the right to dig gum over large tracts of country for which they received very small sums. During four and a half years, in which this regulation was in f0rce,16,600 tons had been exported, the value of which was about £664,000; but looking at the actual value it might bo stated at £800,000, from which the Board only received £1000. He thought, it might be objected that such a duty would drive kauri gum out of con* sumption ; but so far as he could ascertain, there was nothing to fear in this reßpeot, Tho fluctuations in the price of kauri gum shewed that it would be but little affected by 3uch a duty. Manilla gum was much inferior, and iv his opinion could not take the place of the other. This it might be concluded that kuari gum was a speciality of the colony, dnd it was the duty of the Board to see that it was not all dug up and sent away, and to see that a lair revenue was attained from the lands of the colony which they were appointed to administer. _c thought the license should be levied by the Board, in order that they might have full control, and stop the placing of fields in the hands of monopolists. To do away with this monoply, he suggested that a license should be issued empowering the holder to dig for gum on any proclaimed blocks. Mr Tonks also spoke at some length and asked that ia g addition to Mr Firth's motion it might be added, " That as kauri gum is only found in certain por tions ot this provincial district, which are so situated that they have received but little benefit from the Public Works loans, that the revenue derived from the gum duty be devoted to making and repairing, roads, railways, bridges, etc., in those dis tricts." Mr Firth accented this as an addi tion to his resolution, but after some fur ther discussion it was struck out and the motion was carried unanimously. It was also agreed that the resolution be forwarded to the Government for consideration.

Canon Farrar's "Eternal Hope" is pro nounced diffuse and inflated, rash and rhetorical, by the " Catholic Presbyterian," which says the replies evoked by Farrar's sermons havo generally been far superior to the work against which they are directed.

Sala says that he is beginning to think that there are no original sayings in all the world. i.

Til AUCKLAND EVENING STAR FRIDAY DECEMBER 24,



Special Advertisements. JVMAS TXOLIDAYS, 18S0. *]WEW y EAR'S Tl OLID AYS, 1881. T3EGATTA Tn>XCURSIONS, 1881. A USTRALIAN rjRICKETEUS' y ISIT, 1881 WE are F -epared to SUPPLY YOU with tlio Most Suitable|andFASnioNAUL« Clothing Required for Holiday Gatherings, Picnics, Water Exouraions, Lawn Tennis and Garden Parties. GARLICK & CRANWELL. UNSH *DES, for Aftornoon l' o — G. SUNBHAD ES.for Pionics,l upwardß-& SUNSHADES, for Carriage Uso —0. OMPAUOIJR Drcaa Goods, Now Pat. —G. SATEEN, New Lot, jußt opened — Se NOVELTIES in Dress Goods con- Btantly arriving CHILDREN'S Pompadour Drosses, Very Cheap — G. CHILDREN'S 2-Button Kid Gloves - _ CHILDREN'S Hosiery—an Immonso Variety — C. HATS, Laaies', JobLine.ls 3d worth 2s 6(l— G. HATS and Bonnets Trimmed Cheap — Sc HaTS for Children from Is upwards— C. GTrITCK~& CRANWELL would remind the Public that they havo SACRIFICED a Credit Trade for the sake of establish ing the pO-OPERATIVE /~IASH QYSTEM We Opon no New Accounts for Dra pery. We LOSE Cuatomora who ask for Credit ; all we aak in return ia a Liberal Support by Cash Buyers, to enable us to continue what Is a Publlo Benefit Our Gooda 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. L~AWN TENNIS APRONS -G. RIDING GLOVES, Bilk Glovei - & _ KID GLOVES, 1.2,3, i, 6, & 8 Button -V. FANCY BAGS and Boxes of Handkerchiefs for Presente



GOLD and CHENILLE Scarves and Collarettes — G. GOLD and SILVKR Trimmings — Sc GOLDCOLOUKED Silk Fringea.&c- C. CILKS, we have tho Cheapest — G. O SILK-*, Special Lines, 2a 9d, Is 3d, Is 6d per yard — & SATINS and Fancy Goods for Trim- mlng — C. CRETONNES, on immense Assortment — G, CRETONNES, backed with Lace. Curtain Pattern — & CRETONNES, New Styles, from 7d per yard — C. RTKXE-* of New DlSgns too numerous to mention in Hosiery. Underclothing. Millinery, Ladies' Nick Nacks, and Fancy Gooda. ANKKUPT STOCK of Men's and Boys Clothing and Mercery. Now being SOLD at Rohinaon'a Cost, and Manu facturers' Prices by GARLICK _ CRANWELL, VERY CHEAP TABUS DAMASKS, from Is Cd per yard. A pURE /"I AS H OYSTEM. /p\ ALL DRAPERY & CLOTHING / C. S. \ AT \ - /CO-OPERATIVE CASH V' 0/ PRICES, \/ AT THK /IITY TTALL ARCADE. GARLICK & CRANWELL, Proprietors. o ur ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SALE WILL COMMENCE ON MONDAY, 20TH inst.



THE GOODS WILL BE OFFERED AT pOST "ORICE! FOR A FEW WEEKS ONLY 1 In Order to Clear Heavy Stocks J tfIOSGRAVE Si riO„ Importers of DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, queenstrebt, Auckland. N.B,—No Goods will be entered during the Sale, QTRA.NGERS AND TRAVELLERS Visiting Auckland will And the largest outfitting stock in the colon.: To Select from at THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. Thousands of Customers testify to the QJUPEBIOR /"VITALITY & TWITTING! Of the Garments made by them. The Stock of SHIRTS, TIES, HATS, and HOSIERY, Is very large, and includes a CHOICE ASSORTMENT OF NOVELTIE FOR THE HOLIDAYS. A special supply of PORTMANTEAUX BAGS, RUGS, and all Travelling Requisites 1 for Tourists. j AUCKLAND BRANCH: Queen-street (opposite Theatre Royal), And at Albert-street, Thames. J. OTTZSIMONS. Manager. T^ INK&& IT ALL, HAVE' REMOVED FEOM SHORTLAND-STEEET TO TEMPORARY PREMISES IN FORT-j STREET, OPPOSITE COCHRANE AND SON'S AUCTION J MART, AND WILL CONTINUE THEIR C H E A P SALE 4 FOR A FEW WEEKS LONGER, TO CLEAR I i SURPLUS STOCK. THEY WILL REMAIN IN FORT-STREET M DURING THE EE-BUILDING OF THEIR WARE. HOUSE IN. SHOBTLAND*3TREET, * I



Special Advertisements. T> A N X HOLIDAY. MONDAY next, tho 27th Decamber, has been appointed a Speolal Bank Holiday, by tho nndennentioneu Bank, at all its branches in the Colony. ' _"'',. For the National Bank of New Zoaland (Limited). Signed) THOS, BUCHANAN. ldapecto . THE COLONIAL BANK OF NEW, ZEALAND. In accordance with Clause 27 of "The Bank and BankoraAct, 1880," notice ia hereby given that MONDAY, tho 27th Decembor, iSSO, is appointol a Special Hank Holiday at, tho varioua Branches of this Bank throughout tho °°lony' GEORGE COWIE, Genoral Managor. Danedin, Decembor 18,1880. M. MDB C H IE MERCnANT TAILOR AND lIUTORTER. FRESH ARRIVALS. English ahd Scotch Tweeds-7 cases by 'Loohnagar' , „ Serge Suitinos in Blue and Black, of a New Make and Finiah Something New In Bannockburn Tweods, which was awarded Ist prlzo at tho Sydnoy Exhibition , „ , Saxony Tweeds in Blue and Black, of superior quality and new doßign. Another Consignment to arrivo by ' Fornglen. Samples mallod to any address. Thn immonso quantity of Clothing wo ship to tho largo cities and towns in the colouy ia a Bullloient guarantoo that tho QUA LITY and MAKE of thoao Goods cannot be. equalled. Order* by mall will recoivo our beßt attention. WANTED, four First-class Tailors, to whom constant employment wlll.ibo given i>t tho ton penny log. M. M U R C H I E, Oppoalto Aroh. Clark & Son's, Shortland Street, pHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR PR ESE NT Q I RESEN T -3 I



Ladies' BLACK AND COLORED COSTUMES adie 8' BONNETS and HATS, In tho T.atest Paris Stylc3 Ladies' SILK Ann CASHMERE MANTLHS, CAPES AND VI9ITKS LANGTREY HOODS Ladies' KID and TAKFETTA SILK GLOVES in Endless Variety Ladies'SlLK, SATIN and TUSSORE PARASOLS. CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS AND AMD NEW YEAR PKKSWNrs, NEW YEAR PRESENT?, AT TyiLLIAM -OATTRAY'S drapery, mantle, and millinery establishment. New Zealand House, g6, queen-street, auckland. _T £1' Frkk Gifts !-The Proprietors of Wolfe's Aromatic Scbkdam Schnapps, to lnauco the destruction and prevent the im proper use ot their wrappers and labels, and thua further protect the Publlo nt-ainat fraud and deception, havo enclosed In the wrappers, or under the labul on tho quart bottles, since Ist October. 1878, andlcontinue to endow is* evkby DAY'S PACKING TIIROUaBOUT THK -YEAR, 'j' H R E B £1 OR D B R S, which are drawn upon the undersigned, and which will be cashed by them on presentation. To secure Glfta, tne Publin must be careful to ask for, and accept noihingbut, the Gknuine Udolpko Wolfe's ScnNAPPS, with our name npon the too label, M. Moss Sc Co., Wynyard Lano, Sydney.



N.B. -Saturday, 25th instant (Christmas Day), will be observed aa a close holiday in all branches of this Department. Thia Ofllce will bo opened for delivery of letters from 7 p.m. till 8 pm. this day; and on Monday next, 27th, from 9 till 10 a.m. only. ROBT. KAYE, Acting Chief Postmaster.