SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

.tt .__ «.» .ni-n_Thlfl Evening, 7.28 HI _H WATER ] To . monw atornlng, 7.11 ! UNSET.—This Evening, 7.11. hUtf RIBE.—To-Morrow Morning, 4.42 A CON'S AGE.—Full Moon, 17*. 3.15 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

LAST EVENING. Argylo. 5.8.. Crawford, from Whangarei Glenelg, s.s, Farquhar, from Tauranga TO-DAY, Waitaki, S.s„ Edle, from Russell

DEPARTURES.

last evening. Tararua, S.s, Muir, for South

TO-DAY. Glenelg, s.s., Farquhar, for Tauranga Argyle, s.s., Crawford, for Whangarei Roderick Dhu, brigantino.lßobertßon, for Dun edin

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

London—Wanganul, loading Tauranga—Glenelg, Thursday; Waitaki, Mon-

day Russell—lona, Monday Melbourne, via South—Tararna, Thursday Whangarei and Hussoll-Waitakl, Wednesday New Plymouth and South—Penguin, Tuesday Whangarei—Argyle, Tuosdays ana Fridays Waitaki, Friday

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Tararua, s.s., from Sydney, to-night Wolverine, H.M.S., from Sydney, shortly Lady Jocelyn, skip (K.V.P.S.), irom London; sailed Sept. 28 _, ,„_,,,,., T Margaret Golbr _ith, ship (J.K.L.U.), from Lon don; sailed October 29 Oxford, Bhip, from London; loading i Lech Urr, barquo (W.Q.L.K.), from Ijondon; sailed September 27 _,_,„_.. T A. C. de Frietas, barquo (R.F.M.L.,), from Lon don, sailed Ootobor 21th. Sydenham, barque (J.M.F.Q), from London; loading ,_,_., Loch Dee, barque, from London; loading Beatrice Haverner, barquo (J.Q.C.L), from New

York, sailed Sept. 26 Cabarfetdh. barque (S.Q.M.J.), from Hongkong Superior, barque, from New York; sailed Ootober23 _ „, . _ . Himalaya, barque (V.T.K.M), from London; sailed November Loch Fleet, barque (L.K.P.5.).. from London;

Bailed Augast 29 .— -.»»«.« Ocean Ranger, barquentine, ♦W.T.N.V.) frora

Lyttelton and New York Flirt, brigantine !W.L.G.P.),frW» Levuka. .Helena, brigantine, from Rarotonga. Active, brlgantlie, from Samoa Look Out. brigantine, from Sydney' Borealis, brigantine, from Lyttelton Orwell, brigantine, from Rotumah Look Out, brigantine, from Sydney Myrtle, brigantine, from Tonga Clansman, brigantine, from Melbourno Defiance, briitantlne. from Melbourno Ethel, brigantino, from Dunedin Ryno, brigantino, from the Islands Oamaru, brigantine irom Dunodin Energy, schooner, from Noumea Sybil, schooner, from Cook'a Mauds Dayspring, mission schoonor (W.N.8.M.), from the Islands . A-oba, schooner, from Now Caledonia

InWaros Coastwis.—Mary Ann, fromMahu- IMngi with lflOO bushels Pme; Lady of the Lake, from Thames, with lfl.OlX. feet timber; Nanoy, from Thames, with 8,000 feet timber.

OuiSWARva CO'ASTWK.-Mary Ann for Mahu rangi ; LadJ. of the Lake, for Thames. The brig Emily arrived at Melbourne from Kaipara with' a oassro of timber.icn tho Cth instant.

H.M.S. Dana ti arrived at Sydney from Auck land, on the 7th instant.

The briianttne Magellan Cloud haa beeu laid up" at thisDort. She will be offered for sale The s.s.- Arsjyle arrived last night from Whangarei, witli 10* bales wool, TO saoks gum, 22 saoks fuogcß, 10' cases fruit, 37 sheey, 10 boxes eggs 29 crates poultry, 8 s_ok« onions, 6 hldea, arid the following passengers: -Mr and Mrs Ford. Mrs Hewers, Majors Wither*, and Isdall, Messrs Saullan, BrolTn, Hanson, Loogona (2), and 1 in the steerage.

The passenger list of tie s.s; Tararua, for the Soutb, appeared in our la» evenings iaaus. Tbo brigantiDe Roderick Bhn sailed today for Mdroory Bay. where sne> will load- with timber for Dunedin.

The brigantine Oceola will probsSttj. load with gum at this port for New York. Tho s.s, Waitaki from Russell fraught the fnllo wine passengers-.—Messrs Groy, Manning, clukHanan, Smith, Larkins, Mou3.y. Mrs Grey.'Mles Kemp, Miss Mariner, Mrs axd)Miss Mouldy, and others. The Glenelg returned from Northern jfjrts __te last night, ond left again for Taurwosa shortly after midnight. Captain Yates, of the schooner Fajry. now Wing alongside the Good's wharf, mt.tw.tb. a ieHousaccfdent at 12.30 this morning. He had been up town, and was returning to his boat, in oompahy with another man named Byrant. B ing low wator the vssasl had heaved off some leet trom tho side of tlie wharf, and instead of waiting until the mate could slip a plank for him to walk on, he made a leap for the took, ana fsU.his head coming in contact with the beading, which caused an incised wound about 34 inohes to be made in tho captain s head. Dr. Callan waa sent for, .and ha promptly, attended and dressed the wound. Kthe inturies should Drove to be dangerous, upon Ms examination of the patient this morning, he will aa viae his re moval to the hospital.-" Thames Advertiser.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

DEPARTURES. Rowena, s.s., Amodeo, for Waitaia Ha-mah Mokau. 5.8., icCaitby, for Waitara

PORT OF WHANGAROA.

Arrivalß :-Dec 11: Totara. scow, McDonald, from Akahua, with ship timbers; 14th : Fanny Kelly, ketch. Williams, from Anckland, in ballast: Firefly, brig, Downing, from Auckland, in ballast; Agnea Jessie, three-masted sohooner. Hawks, from Auckland, in ballwst.

Departures:—Dec. 13th: Totara, scow, Mo- Donald, for Akaroa, in ballast. Loading: —Fanny Kelly, ketob, with sawn timber, for Auckland; Flreily, brig, with baulk ond sawn timber, for Melbourne; Agnes Jessie, three-masted BChoonor, with sawn timber, for Melbourne.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

RusßKLt, tbia day. Arrived:Walwera, Sailed: Julia Price, and Ocean

Waitara, this day. Arrived: Rowona, from Onehunga, at 10. IS a'.m

Opotiki, yesterday Sailed: Staffa, for Auokland, at 5 p.m.

Wellington, yesterday, .'ailed: Hannah Landlos. barque, for San Francisco; s.s. Penguin, fortheNortb. Passen gers: Messrs Gascolgne, Kelly, Mesdames HarWss (2), Black, Wilson, Mr Robinson, and 5 in the steerage; s.s. Hinenioa, for Opnnake. New Plymouth, and Manukan. Passengers: Mr ond Mrs James, Mr and Mrs Shaw, Mrs Tnrnbull and . children, Major Campbell, Mei»r3 Blackett and Teague and 6 children; a deserter from the Wolverene, two boys committed to the training ship, and 31 witnesses who were engaged in the murder caße, and 6 Armed Constabulary.

Port Chalmers, yesterday, Arrived: Moa, brig, from Kaipara.

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Stab Office, Thursday. AUCKLAND CATTLE MARKET.

MB AIFBBD BUOKLAND'S WEEKLY RWORT.

At the Haymarket, on Friday last horse stock were in unusually large number, hut of a useful class. Biddiug was Bteady throughout the sale, and, with very few exceptions, all yarded were sold at the auction. Riding and light hsrness horses brought from £7 to £18; medium drafi, £11 to £26 ; heavy draft, £29 ti £38 eaoh. The wool sale on Tuesday was lully atetnded with buyers. Late reports from the Home markets not being so gool as expected, there was a further deoUne In price ot about }d on greasy, to near Id on washed wools, being Irom Id to 2d per lb. less than the opening soles of this series, . At Pokeno, on Monday, the muster of cattle was tha largest yet held Tn those yards ; there were plenty of buyers, and satisfactory prioes obtained throughout tho eale. At the Remu-jra yards, on Thursday, dairy cattle wore in limited numbers, but better in quiry than last week. Young store cattle at last week's value?; and grown steers better worth. Fat cattle (were in les. than average Bupply—ll7 head yarded, the whole of whioh wore sold. Prices were __i<her, and none were Bold at the low quotations of lost week. Prices ranged from 203 to 2fis, hut the greater part varied only from 23s to 253 tho lOOlbs. Sheep were in full supply, but better worth, and wethers brought 2jdto2Jd, but several pens of ewes barely 2d the lb. Lambs were very numerous, and lower ln price, than last week, but all ot 'air quality biought above 8s eaoh; prioes ranged from 10s to 13a for good quality. Well-bred pigs from 701bs. to lOOlbs. weight, wore 1 a brlßk inquiry, and a (all supply of well bred store pigs, In low condition, occasioned good competition.

MESSRS HUNTER AND NOLAN'S WEEKLY REPORT. Wool.—Our second sale ot the season was held on Thursday, when 300 bales and packages were disposed of, at a slight decline on last quotations. _ . _ . _~ Horses.—At the Durh »m Yards, on Friday, ovor an avorage number were entered for dis posal by auction, and though bidding was stow during tho sale, most in were quitted at prices satisfactory to the vendor, and with very little alteration in last week's values. Cattle.—At Papakura, on Monday, we held a special sale, and prices for storo cattle advanced, no doubt on account ot the heavy rain lately. At Newmarket, on Tuesday, about ,tho usnal number of all dosciptions waa yarded, and, with the exception ot fat cattle, there was no noteworthy alteration- Beef was dull of sale, consequent on the butohers being overstookad. Sheep.—The yards were well filled on Tues day and prices were a shade lower than of late. Lambs were in full Tsnpply, and met with brisk competition, and sold it from 7s to Ms 6d. Pigs wore jarded in extraordinarily large numbers, and sold at a reduction in prico occordirgly.

AUCKLAND PRODUCE MARKETS.

Wholesale. Retail. s. d. s,d. s. d. s. d. Putter. fe.lb 0 7-0 81 Milk, quart 0 1-0 0 Beet Dairies 0 9-0 0 Butter, fs, lb 9 0-10 Bitter, sit, IbO 0-0 0 Butter, salt 0 10—0 0 Ctoeeo(cew) 0 5-0 61 Cheese (coL) 0 8-0 0 Do.. Cant. 0 6-0 0 l Eggs, doz... 1 0-1 3 K^doL 0 10-1 0 lird.lb .. 0 0-0 10 GSUbtt-BB) 0 7-0 8 Fowls, each 2 6-3 0 B-waaxs&Uama. I Ducks, each 2 6—3 0 ProriaciaJ 0 7—olo Geese, each 5 o—7 0 CsjAßi'taryHaica j Turkeys .. 5 0-7 0 aud B*-K_a fin B_con, In.. 0 10—1 0 chub. .. 0 10J-1 01 Hams, lb .. 1 0-1 3 Bread, Id to Ijd per 21b loaf J stair, per eate, 5 do z, 30s to 32s (id. Butter couliaaas very plentiful. Eggs are scarcer bu_ tauket unsettled. JS VK-BJ__l_* MEAT. ifetsiL s. d. a. d. Boosting Be<_£ ... 0 _. to 0 7 .Boiling Beef .. ... „ ..04 —05 MuMon, hind-quarter ~ .. _. 09— 01J „ loKMjuarter .. ... ~ o2j— 0 3 Pork and V<__J .. 06 —07 Steaks __. I) c— t) a Chops and Sausages OS — 06 Tallow best iwholesalel-mutton, BU<s; mixed, itpSfie. ~,

Flour Market.

Wholesale.

£ B. d. Superflne Flour, silk dressed, per ton.. 13 0 0 Fine Flour, ditto, household .. .. 12 0 0 Sharps, per ton w.m.kl A n R Adelaide, per ton .. .. £13l0s-lt 0 0 OaMMe, per ton .. - .. 12 0 U Dunedlo, per ton .. .. .. £}1-J? 8 S Canterbury, per ton.. .. .. *_I—l 20 0 Bran (scarce) por ton (sacks inoludod).. 510 0 Cabin Bread 18 0 0 Oatmeal " 0 0 Pearl Barley 18 0 0 Hay and Corn Market. ■Wholesale, s. d. s. d. Ra. £B. Maize 'Syd.)3 3-0 0 Hay, me'dow Tl (OaU none ton pressed 5 0-0 0 „ i vltn.i 2 6-2 9 Lucerne, do None „ (Coast) 2 9-3 0 Straw (load) 0 18-1 10 Oats .. ..2 0-2 3 Chaff .. ..4 10-5 0 Wheat (fowl! 3 6-1 0 Hay (oaten) 5 10-0 0 Potatoes, £5, Retail. s. d. s. d. 8. d. s. d. Maize, bushel 3 6-3 91 Lucerne, owt.7 6-8 0 Oats, ditto ..2 3-2 9 Oaton, ditto 6 0-7 0 Bran, lOOlbs 0 0-6 01 Straw, ditto 3 o—4 0 ho at (fowl) 3 3-3 61 Chaff, ditto 5 6-6 0 y, cwt, ..6 0-0 6|Potat'eß,ditto4 G-5 0 Seeds.—Retail, s. d. s. d. s. d. b. d. Ryegrass ..5 o—6 0 Cocksfoot.bl.6 0-8 0 Italian,do. ..8 0-0 0 Trefoil, lb. 0 9-0 0 Rod Clover.lbO 9-0 0 Ratstail, lb. 1 6-0 0 White Clover 1 1-0 0 Timothy, lb 0 0-0 Alsyke, lb ..12 0 0 Luoerno, lb, 16-00 Oowgrass, lbl 0-0 0 Rape, lb ..0 5 0 0 Woolpacks In quantity, 3a 3d to 3a 6deach; corn sacks, 8s to 9s 6d per dozen. Fencing wire Nos. 6, 7 and 8, assorted, £1610s to £17 per ton Building Materials. Timber.—Boards and ScantliDg. 100 ft., best 11b 6d; second class, 7s 6d; best planed, tongued and grooved, 13e 6d ; second-class ditto, 9s 6d' Mills: Cargo, best, 9s; socond-class, ss, Baulk, 5s 6d to 6b 6d. New Zoaland Palings, sft (eapl, 10s; sft (heart) 13s; 6ft, 13s Tl-troe Rails, £3 10s per 100; Puriri Poßts, £6; Shingles, 148 per 1,000; Hobart Town Palings, sft, 17s; 6ft, 19b ; Hobart Town Rails, 90s, selling quotations. Bricks (at Whau.l 40s por 1,000; Town Yards, £2 15s: delivered, £210s. Drain pipes, per 100, 6 Inches bore), 30s ; 4 inches, lis; 3 inches 9s 2 inches, £210s per 1,000 socket glazed pipes, 18 inches 2s Cd por foot; 15 inches, 2s per foot; 12 inches. Is 6d per foot; 9 inches, Is per foot; 6 inches, 6d per foot; 4 inohes, 4d per foot. Lime, slacked. Is per bushel; quiok lime in sack, is 6d to 2a. CoiL and Firewood Market. Coal.—Newcastle (ship's Bide), cargo 31s per ton; yard, 40s to 15s. Bay of Islands, at yards, 25s 6d ; screened, 28s Od; ditto at the mine, 12s; ship's side, 23s 6d. Waikato, at mine, 5s ;in Auckland 17s 6d to 225: Taupiri, at mines, 6s 6d to 12s ;at yarif, 18s to 24a; dellvored, 25s to 28s. Wangarei, at mine, 8s 64; yard (steum), 17s; housohold, 22s> Miranda, at yard (housohold), 18s; steam, 18s. Kamo (household), 28s, 30a delivered; steam, 235. Firewood.—Unout, at wharf (cargo), 8s to 9a per ton; delivered, 13s ; cut, 11a to 16s. Kauri Gum and Flax Market. Gum rather firmer. The following salos havo been effected since last Friday :—Good ordinary Kaipara and Whangarei at £38 to £10. Wai kato, £30 to £34. East Coast, £42 to £1G: receipts for December, so far, 310 tons. Flax.—Finest quality £20—£23 per ton Flax.—Medium .. .. 17 „ tow .. ~ ■■ .. 10 -12 „ Fungus IJd-perlb

THE WEATHER.

(1.) WIND ESTIMATED AS C—Calm I F. Br.—Fresh Breeze L.-Light St.-Stormy Br.—Breeze | G.—Gale (2.) ANEROID BAROMETER. (3.) WEATHER ESTIMATED AS IB.—Bine sky, be the at- O.—Overcast.the whole mosphere clear or sky covered with heavy thlok clouds : >C. — Clouds, passing P.—Passing showers clouds Q.—Squally :D.—Drizzling rain R. — Rain, continued -F.—Foggy rain <&. — Gloomy, dark S.—Snow I weather T.—Thunder H.—Hail U. — Ugly, threatening j li—Lightning appearance

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Closb as Under i-

This Day.

For Wangarei Heads and Wangarol, per Argyle, at i p.m. For Wangarei Heads, Wangarei, and Manga pai, per Waitaki, at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Kntorpriso, at 5.30 p.m.

Saturday, 18th instant. For Walwera, MahurangJ, Matakana, Mangt wal, Walpu, and Mangapai, per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 12.3) p.m.

Monday, 20th instant. For Coromandel, per Coromandel, at 11.30 a.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, Wangaroa, and Mongonui, per lona, at i p.m, For Tauranga and Opotiki, per Waitaki, at 4 p.m.

Tuesday, 21st instant. For Taranaki and Southern ports, per Penguin, at 8 5 a.m. RORT. KAYK, Acting Chiof Postmaster.

Mr fit' Fhkb GiiiTSl-Tho Proprietors of Wolfe's Aromatic Sobiidam Schnapps, to induce the destruction ond prevent tho im proper use of their wrappers and labels, and tluiß furttior protect the Public againßt fraud and deception, havo enclosed In tho wrappers, or under tho label on the quart bottles, slnco Ist October. 1878, and continuo to oncloao in evisky DAY'S P-CICINO TIIIW UGnOUT THK VKAF, T 11 It X i. £1 O It D I- 11 S, which aro drawn upon the underaianod, and which will bo cashed by thoni on presentation. To s.curo theßO Gifts, the Pubdi nm.t bo careful to ask for, and accopt nothing but, the Gknuine Udoipuo Wolfe's Schnapps, with our name upon tho top labol, M. Moss Sc Co., Wynyard Lano, Sydney.

Meetings, Entertainments, &c.

December 17, 1880.

Choral Hall—Mr Proctor's looturo " Tho Sun." Pan'muro Schoolroom — Preebytorlan nnd Church of England aolrco, 7.30 p.m. Temperanoo Hall— Meeting of unemployed, ' Church ot England Grammar School—Distri bution of prizes, 4.30 p.m. Nowmarkot Hall-Christmas Trco ontcrtuln nienc, 7 to 10 p.m.

BIRTH.

Db GRANTVILLE.—On Decombor 10, Northorn Wairoa, Kaipara, tho wlfo of Harry do Grant vlllo, of a daughter.

DEATH.

RYAN. —On Deoomhor 17th, Samuel Smyly Ryan ; ngod 35 years. Tho funoral will lrnvo hia lato resldonoo, Wood-street, Ponsonby, Sunday, at 3 p.m.

WKIR.-On the 17th at his rosldencoSyuiond strcot, Archibald Wolr, aged 17 years. The funeral will loavo hia lato roaldonco on Sunday, the 19th inst., at 3 o'clock. Frlonda ploaeo accopt this invitation'—Home papors please copy.

NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.

KAWN.— Unions a stipulation was made for a start, tho hot holds good. A Lovir of Truth.—Your Information is at fault No uttomot of tho kind, nor anything that oould ho construed into ono, was mado, Quipnam,—Your lottor would provoko an ond lcs3 and ohjectloss discussion.

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

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17, 1883.

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

By tho arrival of the Tararua yester day wo have received Sydney papers containing full reports of tho proceed ings at the Intercolonial Conference, Melbourne, in which tho Premiers of Victoria and New South Walos and the Treasurer of South Australia took an active part. Tho Conference was convoked in the hope that a basis might bo devised for a final adjust ment of the border duties. In this object, suocess was noliieved to only a very limited extent. The irritation of a border custom-house will ceaso be tween South Australia and Iter neigh bours, Victoria and New South Wales, but it remains undisturbed on the joint boundary line of the lust-mentioned colonies. Further discussion of the subject was reserved for the next Con ference, commencing on tho 13th Janu ary, 1880. The delegates having got together and failed in their primary purpose, resolved to do something. They there fore drew up a programme embraoing the following subjects, all of which were discussed, and disposed of in some form or other before the representatives rested from their six days' labour :— Federation, Military and Naval Defences, Border Customs Duties, Intercolonial Freo Tr<tde, Court of Appeal, Intercolonial Legislation, Eailway Extension, Railway Tariffs, Telegraphs, Postal Matters, Patents, Chinese, Vino Diseases., and Diseases of Stock. The question of Colonial Federation was introduced in a paper by Sir Henry Parkes, Premier of New South Wales, and subsequently (he Con ference by resolution affirmed that in its opinion the time has arrived when a Federal Council should be constituted to deal with questions affecting all the colonies in common; that such Council might be constituted with limited powers, by separate Acts of the several Parliaments, each colony boms; repre sented by an equal number of members ; that in the constitution of such Council the authority of each colony over its own revenues should be preserved intact ; that New South Wales bo re quested to prepare a bill to carry out the foregoing resolutions, to be sub mitted to the Conference at its adjourned sitting after Christmas. Sir Henry Parkes has postured most assiduously during the last year or two in the role of champion of Federation, and his ambition will be fully gratified should the bill which has been entrusted to his judgment find general acceptance with the colonies. Neither a general agreement on the wisdom of confedera tion, nor a unanimity on matters of de tail among its advocates, warrants us, however, in anticipating that Sir Henry's genius will compass so great an achievement. A resolution by the Conference more likely to bear fruit, affirms the ne cessity for assimilating the colonial laws with reference to certain offences, and making provision for the exercise of warrants issued in one colony for the apprehension of an offen der vho has resorted to another. The offenders specified are absconding debtors and wife-deserters, A resolu tion was also carried by the Conference favourable to the general validation of patents and trade marks registered in any one colony. The representatives present pledged themselves to a still more radical change, to wit, tho creation by the united colonies of an Australian Court of Final Appeal, open to suitors who are dissatisfied with the decisions of their respective Supreme Courts. A measure widening so extensively the limitations of litigation may be regarded as of very doubtful benefit. Chinese immigration was disposed of by the passing of the following some what vague general resolution :—" That in the opinion of this Confer ence the grave consequences which follow the influx of large numbers of Chineso call, in a speoial manner, for i the concerted action of all the colonies, both in representations to the Imperial Government and in local legislation." In the matter of the vine disease phylloxera, which is playing havoc with the vines of the GeeloDg district, Sir Graham Berry is credited with having Bcored a point over his co-delegates by securing their assent to a resolution pledging each colony to a contribution of £20,000 to wards the eradication of the disease in Victoria, a measure to which the Berry Government is being driven by the strong feeling prevailing amongst Vic torian vine-growers in non-infected districts. Intercolonial free trade, and

colonial defence, were left over, with the general question of federation, till the Conference iv January, to which New Zealand, Queensland, Tas mania and Western Australia will be invited. The Conference so far practically ends like its predecessors in nothing more than a very pleasant holiday for the delegates at the ex pense of their several colonies, and public opinion is hardly matured enough to, expect much more from the approaching: gathering, on any of tho great questions remitted to it for decision. Neverthe less it is probable that on minor questions these meetings will bring about a better Understanding and more hearty co-operation between the mem bers of the Australasian family.

It will be seen in referenco to a cable despatch in another column that Healey and Welsh, two members of the Irish Land League, who were committed for trial on a charge of intimidation, have been acquitted, Tlio telegram does not state the ground upon which the acquittal was based, but, we believe it will be found to bo somo technical difficulty in the present state of the law as regards ofifeccce of this character, Tho " Australian News" states that Mr Berry has abandoned tho intention of proroguing the Victorian Parliament and will proceed with tho Bill for the reform of the Constitution,

It it gratifying to loam that the charge against Mr Do Lisle Hammond for striking a pupil at the Parnoll Church of England Grammar School will bo withdrawn.

Tlio Fishing Association's steamor will leavo the North Shoio Ferry Wharf at 1.15 to-morrow.

The press of Honolulu is agitating for tho construction of a dry dock in order to accouimodato vessels visiting that port.

Tho weekly mooting of the Tattle Board took placo t-uis morning, thero being presont the Chairman, Mr J. May, Mr T. Morrin, and Mr J. Wallace Letters were received from Mr A. Buckland and Mr Horwood with reference to the lattet-'s cattle being released from quarantine, and after some disctißsion it was determined to acccdo to tho request. Thero was no olhor business,

The evangelistic servico in tho Young Men's Booms last evening wan well attended. To-morrow (Saturday) afternoon a service for chiidrcn Will bo held in tho Lecture Hall, when the Rev. Mr Hill will deliver au address. This evening the rev. gentleman will give an evangelistic address. Ho leaves Auckland ou Monday by tho Wai taki for Tauranga.

Mr Thomas Warner, a local artist, haa four of his paintings on view in the shop of Mr Leech, of Shortland-street. The scones represented arc—"Coromandol Hnrbour," " Tiki Ranges," "Five Fiugers" (Dusky Sound), nnd "Deep Water CoVC" (Mitford Haven, N.Z ).

It is understood that in coasequcuco of the leavo of absenco granted to Judge Williams, Mr Justice Gillies will undcrtako tho Otago circuit aud preside in tho Supremo Court at Dunedin. Mr Justico Richmond will take chargo of tho Auckland judicial district. It is not known at prosent who will preside at tho January sittings.

Tho Rev. J, S. Hill dolivorcd an interest ing address last evening at the Wellcsley street rooms, from Ist Kings c. 18 v. 21, which drew a considerable audience. Mr Hill will leave Auckland on Monday next for a visit to tho Hot Lakes, in compatiy with Bishop Stuart.

Among the first Christmas cards is oue from Mr W. B. Langbridge on which aro printed " Tho Song of tho Mistletoe," somo very pretty verses by his brother the Rev. F. Lnugbridgo.

Tho total eclipso of tho moou early this morning was seen to groat advantage, the night being beautifully o'ear. Tho various plniscs of tne eclipse were observed without difficulty, and to those who possessed good telescopes tho spcctaclo was very beautiful.

The Auckland restaurateurs will have to look to their laurels. Since Mr C. Vcith opened his cheap dining-rooms next to tho Metropolitan Hotel, there has beon such a rush of patronage that already tho premises are too small tor tho requirements. Mr Vcith has discovered tho true secret of suc cess in this line of busiuees— cheapness, wholcsomcncss of viands, good cookery, aud promptness and civility in attondnuco. Au excellent and well-served lunch of three courses may be had fora shilling, and other tilings in proportion. Tho dining-room is crowded daily at meal hours.

Benjamin Garland, charged with sheep stealing, was brought up before tho R.M. Court, Cambridge, on Tuesday. The Bench was occupied by Mr Wells, J. P. Mr Beale appeared for the accused. On the applica tion ot the police, a remand was granted to Friday. The Magistrate, in compliauco with an application made by Mr Bcalc, admitted the accused to bail; himself in £50, and two sureties of £25 each. Garland is a settler in the district, and is hitherto understood to have borne an irreproachable character. He scenißJto have become some what paralysed by the position in whicli he finds himself placed, and, acting on that impulse, is said to havo made and signed a full confession of guilt.

A most interesting and successful enter tainment was given in the Mangarc school house on Tuesday evening by tbe Maori students of Wesley College, Three Kings. The proceedings were opened by tho choir singing the first piece on the programme— "Wake the Song of Jubilee," after which the Itcv T, Kuddle offered prayer. The Rev J. Law, who presided on tho occasion, stated that the object ot the entertainment was to combine pleasure with profit, and that the proceeds would be devoted towards the improvement of the church. During the evening tho building was woll filled with the settlers of the district, who evidently enjoyed the rich treat afforded them. Miss Buddie presided at the har monium with her usual ability. Mr John Wallace, in proposing a vote of thanks to the choir, spoke highly of their knowledge of English and music, and congratulated Mr Buddie on the success of the institution. Mr Jones cordially seconded the proposition, which, in being put to the meotiug, was carried by acclamation. The meeting then terminated by singing the National Anthem.

A strange case of libel was recently tried in a Maitiand Court. The plaintiff, Young, sued Tipper for £30 for alleged libel, con tained in the "Maitiand Weekly Post," in the following words :—" Teddy, the littlo tailor, wants to get married, but ho wants the house ready furnished. If he marries Annie, he may get his board for nothing Lucky Ted,to miss the one you did, for you would oftener have enjoyed a cup at your bead than for your tea." The Judge awarded 40s damages.

Some difficulty was experienced at Wellington in inducing one of the young elcphauts to go on board the steanur Waka tipu. The efforts ot the men were altogether fruitless, but suddenly the keeper, n slim Yankee, cried out to the big elephant, " Tommy, como here and butt him into the box !" The animal hesitated not a moment, but, pacing quickly ap, actually shoved the young one into his box. The incident caused somo amusement,

To .lie Editor: Sir,—l notico in last evening's STAB, that at the Mayor's ban quet Mr P. A. Phillips plumed himself on being the first occupant of this city's civic chair. He was nothing of the sort. The first Mayor of Auckland was that excellent man, and valuable citizen, the late Mr Archibald Clarke. Without disparaging Mr Phillips, who has reason to look back with pride to his term of office (for he was a most useful Mayor), I cannot but think it would have been a graceful compliment to tho son there present, and an equally graceful tribute of respect to the memory of I the sire heyond the stars—had the gentle man remembered the fact—and given utter ance to it.—l am, etc., T. B. Hannafoed.

Mr A. Anderson, County Councillor for Whangaroa Riding, was served with a summons to appear at the J. P. Court yesterday, charged with a breach of the 62nd clause, 4 Sub Section, and 100 clauses of the County Council Act, When the case was called, Mr Anderson did not appear,ho being laid up unwell. »ome moro of the County Council doings are reported to be illegal, and an appeal is to be made to head-quarters. Mr B. Gonlden has called a monster meeting of electors for Tuesday next, 'to take steps to wrench from the Council their fair and equal share, or, as he terms it, their lights.

A recent number of the "Australasian " contains an article entitled "Science and Religion " from the pen ot Mr R. A. Proc tor, who concludes as follows :—" The study of scieace implies the belief that God's works are worth study—the faiot recogni tion that the Author of those works are worthy of onr reverence. It is the truest kind of homage, in that it is Hot homage expressed merely in words, but homage shown in work, in service, in sacrifice. The i man of science, in fine, refuses to offer to the Almighty ' the unclean sacrifice of a lie,' but ho offers Him instead, in the search for truth, the sacrifice of time, of labour, and of I thought. His very questions imply his ful. ness of faith." «

The first meeting of creditors in the estate of Joseph H. Wilkins, boot and shoemaker, of Victoria-street, was held in the Supreme Court-house this morning, when Mr Thos. Macffarlane was appointed trustee. The liabilities are stated at £765, and the assets at JE39G.

An inquest was held to-day at Mount Eden Gaol, before Dr. Goldsbro', coroner, and a jury, on the b^y of a native prisoner named Ihaki Kiwa. who waa undei sentence of three months' imprisonment, for larceny, at Hokianga*. Serieant'JacksOn represented the police, Tlie prisoner, It appeared, had been in good health until within a few days of his death. On Monday evening he com plained of being unwell, and died yester day. The result of the enquiry into the cause had not reached us in time for the present issue. The breaking-up of the Church of England Grammar School for the Christmas holidays was pleasing in detail. 'I he entertainment was held in tho Parnell Hall, and among tlm visitors present were Biahop Cowic, Mrs Cowie, and many of tho lending residents of the neighbourhood. The No, 3 Company baud, conducted by Bandmaster McComish, played a number of merry airs outside the hall, which attracted largely. One of tbe chief features of the entertainment was the performance of the Sable Orphans, whicli was highly relished by all present. The whole was creditable and intercstinc.

His HoDor Mr Justice Gillies sat in Chambers this morning and disposed of a number of formal applications, besides so tling tin} issues in one or two cases. The first of these was Buitt v. Earle, an action for determining a dispute with regard to a nativo laud purchase on the Coromandel peninsula. In this case, as well as in that oE tho National Bank v. Bedell and Field, the issues wero settled and the trials (by special jury) fixed for tho January sittings of the Circuit Court, A further argument took place in tho matter of William Potter's will, but without aud decision being come to. The nature of the application is for directions as to tho shares of property to be allotted tho children of the deceased, ln the caso of Wilson v. ltiki Paki, an order wns made attaching the debts.

The time for Christmas Cheer and season able Kilts is nt hand. Messrs L. I). Nathan and Co. aro woll to the foro. Acknowedg mtnta have to be made of the receipt of thrco dozen Bass's " bull dog " ale, which has been sampled, and ia found in perfect condition. Iv this thirsty weather sucli physic Will doubtless find many consumers. Tlio brewer stands nt tho head of the trade, and the bottler has evidently borne in mind that his ovn reputation, aa well as that of the manufacturer, ia at stoke in placing his name to a marketable commodity. Those who prefer English beer will find no more leliablo brand. The beer is woll hopped, and will keep its condition in any climate.

Tho engineer of a train near Montreal saw a large dog ou the track. lie was harking furiously. The engineer blew the whistle at him, but lie did not stir, and, crouching low he was struck by tho locomo tive and killed. There was a bit of white muslin ou the locomotive, and it attracted the attention of tho engineer, who stopped his train and went hack. Thero lay the dead dog and a dead child, which had wan dered upon the track and had gone to sleep, Tho dog had given his signal lo stop the train, and had died at his post. A torriblo balloon accident occurred at Courbevole, close to Nouilly. A Mont golfier balloon was advertised to make an ascent, with a female aeronaut, but at the last moment a professional gymnast volun teeied for the sum of two pounds to make au ascent hanging on to a trapeze, attached to the balloon. Ho was advised to have himself tied to the trapeze, but re fused, saying ho knew his business. He was seen hanging by his hands apparently inert for a long time, nnd ultimately when near Courbevoie he fell, turning over and.ovor, to tho horror of the spectators, from 'a height of 700 yards, and as he fell on the lawn of a garden is said to have made a bole in the soil nearly two feot deep. He was, of course, dead. The balloon sailed over Paris, approached the ground near The Placo St, Michel, and burst about tho hoight of 500 feot. Nobody was hurt by the debris, but a newsvendor, with his kiosque, narrowly escaped being over whelmed.

Mr Proctor lectures to-night on "The Sun, Ruler, Firo, Light, and Life, of the Solar System." It will have been noticed thnt in his first lecture Mr Proctor touched, though but lightly and sketchily, on seve ral of the subjects with which he deals more fully in tho remaining lectures of hi. courso. Thus ho spoke of the solar clouds and rains, the storms which rage in the sun's ntmosphore, the coloured flames whicli leap to enormous heights from that glowing surface. Two pictures among those showed on Wednesday night illustrated these subjects. This evening they will be considered at full length, and will be illus trated by many pictures, among whicli may be specially noticed the wonderful photo graphs of the sun's surfaco by Rutherfurd and Jausscn, and a scries of brilliant views of tho sun's coloured flames. The rapid chunges taking place in these flames are among tho most wonderful dis coveries made by astronomy during the last few years. In like manner iv the remain ing lectures of the course, tho subjects little more than touched on in the first lecture, and severally illustrated by but few pic tures, will be fully described nnd amply illustrated. To-morrow night's lecture on the moon, in which the mystery of univer sal decay is considered, is said to be singu larly interesting.

The Mayor of Onehunga, Mr Blakey, was formally installed in the civic chair yesterday. The retiring Mayor, Mr Codlin, expressed his acknowledgments to the Council for the able assistance he bad received during the past year in conducting the business ot the borough. He then in troduced tho Mayor elect, who mado the prescribed declaration, and took his seat. He said on a former occasion he had taken the chair during a storm, and the weather had been more or lesa disturbed throughout his term of office, but he was glad to say that on this occasion there was nothing but calm, and be trusted no action of his would disturb the serenity. A vote of thanks was passed to the outgoing Mayor.

The Presbyterian Bazaar was opened this afternoon in the Newmarket Hall at three o'clock, but too late in the day for a report in tho present issue. The stalls are well furnished with all kinds of useful house hold goods, ornaments, toys, and wearing apparel, with a fine Christmas tree in the centre, decorated by the ladies with almost every tempting article for the gratification of Bound and sense. In addition to the toy and slipper department, there will be a re freshment stall, weighing machine, cloctric battery, and a fine band. The hall is splendidly decorated for the bazaar.

Mr Albin Martin has reported the result of his inspection of the Auckland Free School of Art in a letter to the founder, Dr. Campbell, in which Mr Martin says :—"I have, according to your request, awarded tho various prizes so kindly given by you to the students who are drawing at tho Museum under the instructions of Mr Ken neth Watkins. I havo much pleasure in being able to report that considerable pro gress has been made by the students during the last year, and that several of the pupils, besides those who have been awarded prizes, show a good deal of talent. The exhibition, which is to be held in March next will give tho students the opportunity of showing to the public the results of their labours, and I hope to see some original drawings and designs sent in by the students of the art class at the Museum." The annual exhi bition of pupils' drawings will be held in the Museum on the evening of the 21st inst., when Mr Justico Gillies will address the students, and present the medals. The fol lowing ladies and gentlemen havo been suc cessful:-Ist prize (frora tho statue), for study of the "Apollo," Mr G. Ellis Whit more ; 2nd prize (from the statue), for study of the ." Venus de Milo," Miss Rose Keesing; Ist prize (from tho bust), Miss Fanny K. Plumley, for a study from the " Laocoon;" 2nd prize (from the bust), Miss Kate L. Koche, for a study of " The Veteran;" Miss Louisa White, for copy j from the flat. " J

Scintillations.

"Be brief; for It is w en words as with sun beams: the more they ore condensed, the deeper they bura."-8o utiiey.

The new convent in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, is to cost over £6000. Henry Ketten appears at Christchurch on the 27tb. ' , ..,,-,, Sir F. Dillon Bell baa sailed for Mel bourne en route for London.

Tbe Government of Victoria are issuing a new twopenny stamp. Good Templar Grand Lodge meets in Auckland on January 4th. Edward Shaw is appointed District Judge at Wellington. There is a chicken-hatching machine in full swing in Willis-street, Wellington. Mr Thompson, proprietor of the Zulu War Diorama, was married yesterday. It is becoming fashionable for larrikins who evade the Melbourne police to make for tbe " Kelly " country. Publichouses in Melbourne are kept strictly closed all day on Sundays. A 10 miles journey qualifies a traveller. An Auckland gentleman lately returned from a visit to Paris, now calls the Auck land streets 'Tight of ways." Victorian legislators are too fond of inter viewing their constituents within the precints of tbo Eonse. Country deputations visiting Melbourne awing their railway passes at their button holes. This is a sure passport. Mr Berry complains that paid members of Parliament are reluctant to work.

The Victoria Loftus Troupe, at last accounts, wero playing at Cooklown with great success. At Blenheim,Emanuel Ambrose Simpson on charges of horse-Btealing and stealing a saddle and bridle,received two years. The public library at Wanganui will be assisted by a fine art and industrial exhi bition,

Whareapa, a native, committed for trial for murder at the Chathama, is related to Tuhi.

The late Attorney-General, Mr Robert Stout, passed through Auckland yesterday on his way to Dunedin, from tho Taupo Land Court.

Mr Cathcart, who is now playing at the Queen's, Sydney, comes to New Zealand shortly with Herr Bandmann and Louisa Reaudet.

Each 'bus driver in Sydney, says the " News," drives on nn average 60 miles a day, and is on the box for fifteen hours. All for tho " public good." A German artint who exhibited at the Sydney Exhibition, and whose pictures were not sold, explainod tho fact by saying that the Sydney public only liked those of a brilliant green colour. Kind critic ! That was a smart em grant who, a few days ago, engaged with a ilady. She coolly remarked to her would-be mistress, " lam willing, mam, to go to you for 6s a week, but as soon as you teach me the worK I'll, of courso, requiroTOs." Tboy didn't come to terms.

A " god " in the Theatre Royal pit.Sydney attempted to sing a duet with Madame Roso Hcrsee. He took up the trill once or twice, much to the annoyance of the artiste. In tho audience vaiious feelings wore excited: some were amused, but the majority were disgusted. At a school examination in Christchurch recently, a class of young children were asked : "If you can get a dozen buns for a shilling, how many can you get lor a penny?" Ono worldly-wise urchin astonished the examiner hy promptly replying, "Two, if they are stale ones. A tax on pianofortes is suggested by a correspondent. The suggestion \s worthy of the thoughtful consideration of legislators and working classes. The "Contemporary Review" contains nn article advocating the abandonment of India as an unprofitable portion of the empire. Tho article, however, is only another attack on the Imperial policy.

J. R. Hutton won the 100 yards race at Christchurch yesterday, and quarter-mile race. Allison won the bicycle race, Roun trec the 2 mile walking handicap, Mc- Millan the 1 mile handicap, Hutten the quarter-mile hurdle race, Woolarton the 2 mile bnndicap, and Allison the 2 mile bicycle handicap.

CONCERT AT THE CHORAL HALL.

Thk natural advantages of the octavo com pleted by the eighth note, which has so fre quently been under consideration will ever remain a "causus belli" in the world of music, oach having his pet theory, for did not Gounod essay to simplify the same in "Faust" for the Roi de Tuule, whilst (he Syprophryghn style, to give yet another instance to give jet another instance highly colours the close of Rossini's " William Tell." We could not say, then, that the octabile short iron pianoforte used last night at this fully-attended concert had a tension sulliciently unstrung to meet the require ments of the performers, yet their social gradient remains as beforo, and the concourse of spectators gave the brava to nearly every number worthy of a preme donne of continental repute, and of Palatial salon. Mr Slator, St. Mary's, commenced with "Martha," solo, pianoforte, which, as an orthodox tuneful composition, is ever welcome, form ing a line study for taste aud finger. The song "Oh Fair Dove, O Fond Dove," should have been delivered with more abandon ; It has an elfective rythm, and in the hands of Mr Burnbam had fair inter pretation, though he was lacking in timbre. Hatton's " Her Heart was in Her Song," is one of those real melodies which he and Wallace wrote in contradistinction to the mosaic compote of those well worn effects, fioni whicli most new songs are just now manufactured. Mrs Mitchell sang it with force, if anything errine a little on this side. " My Pet," by the same vocalist, is a light drawing-room trifle, and the audience in this were well compensa.ed with the excellency of intonation through out, but the crescendo passages were again taken a little too hard. The song was encored. The duet, " What Ate the Wild Waves Saying," is as old as the hilis, and, as usual, when a lady sings the part written for a gentleman, viz., Paul, the-whole thing is marred, Miss Hastings executed credit ably an unprofitable task. The rendering of the " Lighthouse," by Mr Edniiston, was made much of by this gentleman; the song suits his voice, and he sang better than on former occasions. The scena, " Vashti," Mrs Revitt, was certairly the gem of the night. It ia a bold, striking, and yet florid, work, and the lady declaimed where neces ary, in her best manner, giving to her hearers the true intention and meaning of tho author. The lady's effort was heralded by the protracted plaudits of a house full of friends and admirers. Professor Swallow provoked most luscious harmony in "L3S Cloches dv Monastdre," pianoforte. The work teems with counterpoint and catching rdverie most ably delivered, the entire being varied by graceful and easily managed arpeggio. An enthusiastic encore brought Mr Swallow again to the instrument, when he played, left hand only, " The Last Rose of Summer " with variations. This of itself was worth a visit. The clarinet solo, "I 'Puritani," by Mr O'Beirne, was rather lengthy. Mr Cordon Gooch favoured tho auditory with the stirring song of the " Midshipmite," which he gave in his best form, following, as an encore, with Sullivan's "lost Chord," alao sung con Bpirito. With these last named, the visitors were much delighted. Mr Swallow's performance of "Rigoletto" waa very j masterly. In selecting this he chose a great theme of his creative pianoforte gifts found scope and sway. Miss MoEwen offered Claribel's " Children's Voices." Her upper range is very good, clear, and bell like, and with a little more confidence, study, and style may yet astonish the Auck landers. Mr Wilson, in the simple song of "Eilloen Allanah," obtained au encore, substituting "In tho Gloaming." Ho fol lows the score very correctly, but some of his npper notes are husky, Messrs Bum ham and Forth, in Benedict's " The Moon hath Raised her Lamp above" (duet), shewed signs of careful practice, Mr Forth reudering good assistance. In the course of the evening, Mrs Revitt distributed the prizes to the successful competitors in con nection with the recent sports and merry pastimes of the Auckland Amateur Athletic Club.

' We learn from an English paper, that at the invitation of the London Shakespeare and Burns Club, a party of more than three hundred ladies and gentlemen assembled on the 29th September, in the suite of rooms on the ground floor of Queen Anne's Man sions, to welcome Mr Creswick on hia return to London from a three years' professional tonr in Australia ana New Zealand. Mr Robert Crawford was in the chair, and a congratulatory ad dress from the Club was presented aud read by Mrs Fairfax, Mr Creswick thanked the club in his own name and in the name of the art he represented. Mme. Edith Wynne then sang a welcome, and Mr Quatremaine and Miss Singleton lent their services. The Hon. Mr Norton, late Advocate-General of Madras, and several distinguished amateurs, assisted.j while Archdeacon Dunbar made a speech on the relation between the Church and Stage, ■ ;

CABLEGRAMS.

EUROPEAN.

[HjSUTKR'S TELEGRAMS.]

ACQUITTAL OF LAND LEAGUERS,

LONDON, December 16. T, M. He A ley, who accompanied Mr Parnell on the American tour, and J. W. Welsh, one of the prominent Leaguers who wore committed for intimidation of a farmer named Minnay, and were recently brought up for trial, have npw been acquitted ol tho charge brought against them.

The Government has doubled the duty on oatmeal imported into Victoria.

IURK-SY AND GREECE,

LONDON, December 16.

Turkey has issued a circular vote invok iug tho Great Powers to urge Greece to abandon her armament and negotiate in stead. The "Times," in a leading article, announces that England is willing to join the Great Powers for the purpose ot settling the Greek question if France unites.

AUSTRALIAN.

THE REFORM BILL. MELBOURNE, December 16.

It is expected that an animated discus sion will take place on the Reform Bill, and it is probable that Parliament will be summoned soon for its discussion. REFORM BILL TO BE PROCEEDED

WITH,

MELBOURNE, Friday.

In consequence of the Liberals objecting to delay with the reform of the constitution. Mr Berry has abandoned the pro posed prorogation of Parliament on the understanding that the Reform Bill be immediately discussed. It ia expected the recess will therefore beindefinitely postponed and Messrs Berry and Vale will be unable to represent Victoria at the Intercolonial Conference when it meets in Sydney next month.

N. S. WALES PARLIAMENT. SYDNEY, December 16,

Parliament has been opened by the Governor, who, in his Bpeech on the oc casion, promised the introduction of a Bill dealiug with municipal and local self government, inspection of sea-going vessels, regulations of the liquor traffic, fisheries, also oyster fisheries, the consideration of the criminal law, and contempt of Court being placed on a more satisfactory footing. He further stated that an increase of revenue, amounting to £600,000, was shown since July Ist, as compared with last year, He referred slightly to the extension _of existing railways, and concluded by making reforcuce to the Intercolonial Conference lately sitting. The members present were : —Ministerial supporters, 20; Opposition members, 28; absent, 10.

NEWTON WEST SCHOOL ENTER TAINMENT.

AN excellent scholars' entertainment was given last evening at this school, conducted by Mr John Edwards, and which was of a very satisfactory character. The central room was gaily festooned with seasonable flowers and green leaves, whicli added to tho cheerful aspect of the scene. Mr McGregor, who felt an interest in the school from old connections, had come a consider able distance for the purpose of taking cog nizance of tho progress of the children under Mr Edwards' rule, and he was called upon to preside; In tho opening address he said he had been chairman of the local committee two years, and had resided in the city fifteen years ; it was not strange, therefore, that he should feel a kind of family interest in the school, which had made such progress, to the credit of Mr Edwards, whose constant attention to the scholars was well-known in the neighbour hood, Tho entertainment was given for the purpose of raising funds for a Christmas treat for the scholars, and in which they might have a fitting opportunity of display ing their abilities ia singing and elocution. This was better than making a direct appeal to parents and settlers, as it would teach tbe children the excellent habit of mutual self-help and self-reliance. But as the programme was rather lengthy, he would not weary them with a long address, but proceed at once to business. The Biog ing and readings by the girls and boys showed a proficiency and harmony which were remarkable, evidencing the advan tages of careful training. The fust song and chorus by the pupils, lead by Mr Edwards, was "New Mown Hay," very effectively rendered ; a pianoforte solo, with variations, "Sweet Home," by Miss Harbutt followed. The girls and boys of the several classes alternately gave readings from Scott, and other well known authors; the girls were particularly correct, the words being distinctly enunciated with regard to tune, and expressed with feeling effect, and a consciousness of the full signifi cance of tho poetry. "Bonnie Dundee," by the boys, was capital, and loudly praised by friends. A pianoforte duet by the brothers Cousins, sons of Mr Cousins (Cousins and Atkin), was deservedly cheered. A scene, " Brutus and Cassius," from Shakespeare, by two young ladies (pupils of Mr Gradwell), Miss Clow and Miss Fielder, was executed with fidelity, and praiseworthy. But with out enumerating the whole of the perfor mances, we may honestly affirm that the Newton West school entertainment was one of the most satisfactory in every respect that has come under our immediate notice. The following visitors assisted : Miss Atkin and Mr Cousins, duet, violincello and piano; Mr Gradwell, songs, "My old Friend John," and " Four Jolly Smiths," and, in answer to a unanimous call, " Simon, the Cellarer," all of which were sung in good style, accompanied by Miss Harbutt and Master Cousins. The readings were " Christopher Green," a local poem, by Mr Blackman (by request); " Vat You Please," by Mrßruce, and a comic poem, "Pyramus and Thisbe," hy Mr Edwards, written by John G, Saxe. The entertainment being the first at the school, was fully patronisea I and enjoyed, and previously to singing the National Anthem a vote oi thanks was unanimously carried to Mr McGregor, to the friends from a distance, and to all who bad contributed to the pleasure and profit of the audience.

CRICKET MEMO.

To-morrow the West End Cricket Club, (second eleven), will play Onehunga United Cricket Club (second eleven) on the One hunga ground. Play to commence at 2 p. in. The West End will he represented by Waymouth, Woods, Wallace, 0. Butler, Yon Sturmcr, C. P. Taylor, Stovin, Sulli van, Courtayne, Davy, Baker, Crook and Lewis. For Onehunga :—Stokes, Beaver.', Gallery, Stych, Dore, T. Mahoney, P. Mooney, W. Donovan, Leahy, R. Wall, A. Wall, D. Brown (emergency).

The Auckland United and Eden C.C. will meet to-morrow afternoon on the Domain ground nt 2 p.m. sharp. The following aro the teams : -United : Mumford, Lestro, Laukham (2), llufaur (2), McCormick, Cromwell, Jervi*, Grant, and Wayte. Eden: Buckland, Tonks (2), Burtt, WheWell (2), Hesketh, Pearson, Cheese man, Mocatta, Bowden, Nolan.

In the Cricket match to-morrow between West End and North Shore, North Shore will he repres .nted by Burgess, McGeebie, Webster (2), Wynyard, Waterhouse, Shakspearc, Swanson, Dacre, Shaw, and Yates. West End : Messrs Lynch (Cap tain), Colgan, Arneil, Day, Buller, Macky, King, Choycc, Isaac, Coleman, aud Mitchell. Play commences, without fail, at two o'clock.

A cricket match will be played in the Domain to-morrow afternoon between the Ist eleven ot tho Civil Service CO., and the Ist eleven of the Auckland C.C. As this is the first time these two teams have met, and, as there is plenty of talent on each side, we may hope to see a v*ry close game. The following are the names of the players: -Civil Service C.C. : Swanson, Irvine, Ivens, Morrow, Mitford, Coatcs, Ellis, Wheetman, Greatback, Parris, Lurasden, and Nicholson. Auckland C.C. : Beale(3), Roach, Bindon, Reid, (Jamerou, Cheeseman, Cox, Earl, aud Coibeck. Play will commence at 2 p.m. sharp, weather permitting, and players are requested to he punctual.

A match between the Carlton and Devon port Clubs will be played in the Domain to-morrow. Cariton Team : Ellis, Ripley, Hill, Creeks, Cromwell, Moginie, Gattand, Walker Waddingham,' Whiteside, and Hidings. Devonport team :G. Wynyard (captain), H. and W. Wynyard, t-ibbin, Sims, Reid, Eraser, McLean, Niccol, McDougal, Bartley. The Parnell and Onehunga United Clubs will play to-morrow in the Domain ground at 2 o'clock sharp. Playois, Parnell •— Brook (?). Sadler. Stichbury, George, Gray, Brown, Crawford, Cooper, Lumnkin, and Conway. Onehunga :—Fatten, 'Donovan, Breunau (3), Barr, Mahoney, Daly, Brown, Mulgan, and Eastwood, Emergency: Brookficld. * '

Destructive Fire in Wellington.

[BY TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRKSPOIJDKKTJ,

WELLINGTON, this day. A fire broke out in an unoccupied cottage in Fra.er's Lane at I.3o.|this morning The .building was soon burned to the ground, and the flames spread to a five, roomed cottage occupied by Hit A. Cutte-t* and owned by Mr J. Gascoignc, which was also destroyed. The attached house occupied by Mrs De .Lacy was partially burnt. There was no insurance oh the unoccupied house, but Gascoigne's was insured for £150 in the New Zealand Insurance. Mr Cutten was a heaVy loser as the furniture was uninsured. The origin of the fire is unkown.

An unoccupied cottago was burnt ihiS morning. It .was owned by Thompson boarding-house-keepei-, and was insured iti Union Office for £100.

Sale of Waimate Land.

(BY TELEGKAPI., OWN CORftESPONDBNT.)

NDBMANBY, this day. A further sale of 6,000 acres of Waimatfe land for cash took plitce at Hatve.a yesterday with a very numerous attendance. The ruling prices were exceedingly high some sections fetching £12 per acre. An extraordinary " laud hunger " prevails ; but it is significant that the highest bidders are mostly strangers in the district- The land sold is open fern land, but is infested with wild pigs, which root up the grouttd and render it unfit for ploughing. Con. aiderable comment has been excited by the fact of some deferred payment sections at Wednesday's sale fetching vety low prices in comparison with others, and previous arrangement among some of the applicants has been hinted at.

Sailing Races.

The sweepstakes sailing race for boats under twenty feet will take place in the harbour to-morrow afternoon. The boats entered are the Hettie, Patriot, Hattie May; Eunice, Nymphc, Comet, Witch, and Whip. The course will be the same as that of last Saturday, rounding the buoy in fiangitoto Channel. The Hattie May, Eunice, and Patriot are the favourites. A race between McEwen's Crab and the Imp (Warbrick) for a new suit of black clothes takes place on Tuesday next, the course beiug the same as that in the match between the Imp and Hattie May, The race for £5 a-side between Perrot's Imp and Holmes' Zip, postponed from last Saturday, takes place in the harbour to morrow afternoon,. The course is similar to that sailed by tho open sailing boats a fortnight ago. . The match between the Imp iind tbe Hattie May, for £20 a-side, is fixed for Monday next, at noon, Alf Warbrick will sail the former, and Matthews the Hattie May. .

Coromandel Mining News.

(From our own Correspondent.)

COROMANDEL, this day. The Pride of Tokatea gold returns from the tribHtors are a_. follow :—Boyd md patty, 25ozs. j Wells, 24ozs. 4dwts.; Kennbdy, 49ois. 17dwts, ....

The Royal Oak Company's crußhiiig o. 2l tons of stuff yielded 180 zs. The Just-in-Time crushing yielded 99o_;s. of gold for ten tons; McLean and party have deposited lOozs, gold from the specimens obtained from the old Carnatic claim.

POLICE COURT.-This day.

(Before R. C. BAESTOW, Esq., R.M.)

DKIHK,

Maurice Sheehan and Mary Brown were fined 5s each for this offence.

HOMELESS CHILDREN,

Two small brothers, named William and Thomas McDowell, were charged with being destitute children according to the Act. The boys were respectively aged 10 and 12.

Mr Pardy said the boys had no father, and the mother was in a destitnte state of health, and unable to maintain them. The boys were in the habit of sleeping ont at night. Sergeant Clarke deposed that the mother of the children was lying sick in bed, and living upon charity. The boys were utterly beyond her control, and would do nothing but run about the street. He belived their father was living in the United States, where he had been for many years. Tbo mother wished the Court to make an order for thtir admittance into the Naval Train, ing-school. Ordered te the said institution for three years, to be brought up in the faith of the Church of England. SERIOUS CHARGE. William Sweetland, a seaman, was charged with wilfully and unlawfully wounding Charles Hassell with a sharp instrument on the 17th instant. :'■■']. Mr Pardy: stated the case. The prisoner struck complainant a violent blow it the face, inflicting a severe gash at tho cbrher of the eye, which it was considered could not have been done by a haud, but by some sharp instrument. Hassell was so much wounded that he was sent to the Hospital where he now lies. The prisoner, it appeared, had struck complainant under circumstances of great provocation, The disturbance arose "on the brig Transport, from Newcastle. The hearing ot tbe case was remailded until Monday, prisoner being admitted to bail, himself in £20, and two sureties in £10 each. Captain Matthews and another officer immediately offered to give the bail, and the prisoner was allowed to go back to the vessel. •'

CONCERT AT ST. MARY'S, PON SONBY.

The annual concert given by tha young ladies of St Mary's select school in aid of the convent school, was held last night at Ponsonby, under the patronage. Mid in the presence of His Grace Archbishop Steins, S, J., who was accompanied by the Very Rev. F. J. Fynes, V.G., and Father* Walter Macdonald, O'Haro, O'Dwyer, Downey, O'Gara, and Brciken. The school room was well-filled. Shoitly after. 8 o'clock the stage curtains were drawn aside, disclosing a prettily-arranged mimic stage, with Misses Flood, Boylan, and L. O'Sulli van seated at their respective man cal instruments in readiness for the first selection, They opened the concert with the execution {upou an organ and two pionos) of the well-known overture to " Semiramide." It was placed with remarkable precision, the captivating " swing" of the melody being very effec tively interpreted. The soul-stirring chorus " Hail Us Ye Free," received a capital rendition from the company, as did also Bishop's beautiful solo and chorus, "Daughter of Error." Miss Flood was the soloist, and despite the inconvenience resulting from a slight cold, she sang the pretty passage allotted to her most admir ably. She has a voice of great flexibility and much sweetness. Mr John Stodart sang "Tho Gallants of England" very acceptably, and the same remark applies also to the singing of Reichardt's popular sentimental song, '' Thou Art so Near and Yet so Far," by Miss Lottie Avey. The performance of Kuhe's arrangement of " Home Sweet Home," for the pianoforte, by Miss Flood, and of tbe duet, " Bright Seems Thy Life," by Miss C. Tole and Mr J. A. Tole, were both marked with excep tional merit. Tbe vocul quartette, " Sweet and Low," by Misses Flood and C. Tole, and Messrs J. A, Tole and Boyle was loudly applauded, while "The Flower Girls" (song with chorus) by five very young ladies, formed one of the prettiest items on the programme. Miss Mary O'Sullivan and Miss V. Millett sang a verse of the song, each with decided effect, while the chorus was very good indeed for such youthful performers. After a short interval the overture to "Tancredi " was performed upon a melody organ and three p'a"?,s "^ Misses Flood, Butler, Briscoe, L. Ooul livan, Hyton, and Darby. The remainder of the selections were of uniform excellence, each aud all of them being characterised by facility of execution and pleasing enecr. They were :-Chorus, " When Daylights Going " ; harp duettino, Misses Flood and L. O'Sullivan j song, "In my wild moon tain Vallcv," Miss Darby; violin sow, "Massaniello," Miss McGinley; duett, "Home to our Mountains," Miss Stodarc and Mr JohnStodart; trio, " Wild Flowers, Misses Lynch, S, Lynch, and Darby; song, "Maid of Athens," Mr M. O'Sullivan; Venetian boat song, Miss Flood. The last item was associated with an invisible chorus, which proved highly agreeable. Then al lowed the performance of an engaging mue comedietta entitled " Mrs Willis's Will, in which Misses Flood, Briscoe, Hylton, Dunnett, and Kane, sustained the various parts. The singing of " Good Night H* chorus), aud the National Anthem, brougni the entortainment to a close.

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR. FRIDAf. DECEMBER 17.



AS OBSERV:

ID A r.

ILEi

IR

iPH STATIONS.

tRIDA'

I0K1

mi

iRld.

id.

a § n 2910 29.74 29 91 29.93 29.98 29.8f. 29.72 2S73 29.82 29 50 29.5C 29.57 2915 39.17

a C v a 63 73 72 I 67 70 62

Station.

a o S3 b N.W. C. K. N.E, N.K. C. tf.w. N.W. tf.w. N.E. E. N.W. 0. W.R.

I o h _\B

CO o d a.

State of Sea, Bar, or Rivera.

Manukau.... Thames Tauranga.... Napier Taranaki Wanganul... Wellington.. Nelson •Greymnuth.. Xy ttelton.... Timaru Oamaru iPt. Cholmere Bluff-

U L.B h.

F.B L. L. F. U Br. L.

P G. S: OG OR B.C B.C B. B. B. B. C.

good

slight swell Blight swell smooth

moderate smooth

69 67 62 50

smooth heavy swell



Special Advertisements. . _ QUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SAL£ WILL COMMENCE ON MONDAY, 20TH INST., THE GOODS WILL BE OFFERED AT | pOST pitlOE! FOR A FJSW WEEKS ONLY I IN ORDER TO CLEAR HEAVY STOCKS J I^OHGRAVB & no,, Importers mp DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, queen-street. Auckland. N.B. — No Goods will be entered during the Sale.



/CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR PRESENT Q| RESIGN TO I LADIES' BLACK Am COLORED COSTUMES adi is a' BONNETS and HATS, in tbe latest Paris Styles Ladies' SILK akd CASHMERE MANTLBS, CAPES and VISITES LANGTREY HOODS Ladikb' KID aud TAFFETTA SILK GLOVES in Endless Variety Lames' SILK, SATIN and SUSSORH PARASOLS. CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS AND AND NEW YEAR PRESENTS. NEW YEAR PRESENTS, AT "WILLIAM "DATTRAY'S drapery, mantle, and milliner's establishment. New Zealand House, 63, queen-steeet, auckland. QTRANGERS AND TRAVELLERS Visiting Auckland will find tho LARGEST OUTFITTING STOCK IN THH COLONY To Select from at THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. Z£Z\ Thousands of Customers testify to the - Ddpibiob Quality tc Pitting OI the Garments made by them, j The Stock of SHIRTS, TIES, HATS, and HOSIERY, Is very large, and includes a CHOICE ASSORTMENT OF NOVELTIE FOR THK HOLIDAYS. A special supply of PORTMANTEAUX BAGS, RUGS, and all Travelling Requisites lor Tourists. AUCKLAND BRANCH: Queen-street (opposite Theatre Royal), And at Albert-street, Thames, J, JJIIzaiMONS, Manabeb.



Special Advertisements. M. M TJ RCH I X MERCHANT TAILOR AND IMPORTER. FRESH ARRIVALS. ENGLisn and Scotch Tweeds—7 oases by 'Lonhnagar' Serge Suitings ln Blue and Black, of a New Make and Finish Sometiiino Nkw In Bannookbarn Tweeds, which was awarded Ist prize at tho Sydnoy Exhibition Saxony Tweeds in Blue and Black, of superior quality and now design. Another Consignment to arrive by ' Fernglen. Samples mailod to any address. Tho Immense quantity of Clothing wo ship to the large cities and towns in tbe colony is a Buillolont guarantee that tho QUALITY and MAKE of theee Goods cannot bo equalled. Orders by mall will receive our best attention. WANTED, four Flrat-class Tailors, to whom constant employment will ,bo given tt tho ten penny log. M. M U R O H I E, Oppoaito Arch. Clark & Son's, Shortland Street. JVMAS TTOLIDAYS, 1880. TWEW y EAR'S *D OLID AYS, 1881. TOEGATTA EXCURSIONS, 1881. A DSTRALIAN r<RICKETERS' TTISITi 1881 WE are Prepared to SUPPLY YOU with tho Most Sultable|and Fashionadlb Clothing Required for Holiday Gathering-", Picnics, Wator Excursions, Lawn Tennis and Garden Parties. GARLICK tc CRANWELL.



SUNSHADES, for Afternoon Uso —Q. SUN3HADttS,foi'Pionics,l.upwai'ds-& SUNSHADItS, for Carrlago Übo -C. POMPADOUR DroBS Goods, Now Pat. - G." BAT KEN, Now Lot, j ust opened — & NOVELTIKS in Dross Goods con- stantly arriving —p. CHILDREN'S Pompadour Drosses, Very Cheap — G. CHILDREN' 3 2-Button Kid Glovos —tc CHILDREN'S Hosiery—on Initnenso Variety -C. HATS, i adies', Job Line, 1b 3d worth 2tod- 3. HATS and Bonnets Trimmed Cheap— & HATS for Children from Is upwards— C. GARLICK & CRANWELL would remind the Publio that they have SACRIFICKD a Credit Trade for the sake of establish ing tho pgOPERATIVE /".ASH OYSTEM We Open no Nkw Accounts for Dra pery. We LOSE Customorß who ask for Credit ; all wo ask in return is a Liberal Support by Cosh Buyers, to onahlo us to continue what Is a Publio Benefit Our Goods aro very Carefully Bought, and Marked at a Vory Small Percentage over Cost, ond wo must do a Laugh Business to continue the System, and the Larger our "Turn Over' I.tho imoro our Custcaors will Benefit by their Support lAWNTENNH APRONS — G. J RIDING GLOVES, 811k Glovei — & KID QLOVKS, 1,2,3, i, 6, Sc 8 Button - C. FANCY BAGS nnd Boxes of Handkerchiefs for Presents GOLD and OHENILLE Soarvos and Collarottes — Q. GOLD and SILVKR Trimmings - & GOLD COLOURED Silk Fringos.&c- 0. QILKS, wo have tho Cheapest — G. O SILKS, Special Lines, 2d 9<l, la 2d, Is 6d per yard — & SATINS and Fancy Goods for Trim- mlng — c. CRETONNES, on immense Assortment — G? CRKTONNES, baoked with Laoe, Curtain Pattern _ & CRETONNES, New Stylos, from 7d per yard _o. ARTICLES of New Designs too numerous to mention In Hosiery, Underclothing, Millinory, Ladles' Niok Nacks, and Fanoy G pods, BANKRUPT STOCK of Men's and Boys Clothing and Mercery. Now boing HOLD at Robinson's Cost, and Manu facturers' Prices by GARLICK & CRANWELL.



-\TW&Y CHEAP TABLE DAMASKS, from Is T 6d per yard. /V pURK pASHa YSTKM. /P \ ALL DRAPER IT & CLOTHING / C. S. \ AT \ „"; /CO-OPERATIVE CASH V/ PRICES, \/ AT THB £JITY TTALL A RCADB, GARLICK & CRANWELL, Proprietors. jIfILNK & nHOYOE HAVE NOW REOBIVED BOYS' SUITS, In all tho Best Styles and Materials, including Brown Holland, Brown, White, and Striped Drill, Tweed, Serge, &c, in the Brighton, Wim bledon, Nelson, Czar, Connaught, i. ydnoy, Royal Tar, and other makes. Also, BOYS' SHIRTS, TIES, COLLARS, BRACKS, BELTS, SOCKS, HOSIERY, &C. LADIES' JERSEYS CHILDREN';. JERSEYS THK JERSEY CLOTH, by the yard ladies' new hosiery . children's new hosiery. New Trimmed and Untrimmed Eon«



nets and Hats. Chenille Ribbon, Chenille Ties. Alsol A Large Variety ol FANCY GOODS GENERALLY. 1%/riLNE & f.HOITCE. P E C I, li L NOTICE. We.|the undersigned, respe t/all 'Invltelthe Inspection ot the Ladies o(|Auckland and the surrounding district to the fact;.tbat] we are Opening up a A LARGE AND VARIED ASSORTMENT OF ENGLISH, FRENCH, & AMERICAN GOODS, itr MILLINERY, HOSIERY GLOVES, FEATHERS FLOWERS, LACES &a, &o„ &c. DUNNE, HALL, & CO., 174, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND Opposite the Thistle Hotel). j W INKb & HALL, HAVE REMOVED FROM SHORTLAND-STREET TO TEMPORARY PREMISES IN FORT STREET,



OPPOSITE COCHRANE AND SON'S AUCTION MART, AND WILL CONTINUE THBIR CHEAP SALE FOE A FEW WEEKS LONGER, TO CLEAR SURPLUS STOCK, THEY WILL EEMAIN IN FORT-STREET DURING THE RE-BUILDING OF THEIR WARE HOUSE IN SHORTLAND-STREET. TO STOREKEEPERS AND HOUSE HOLDERS. Those who once make purchases from the Extensive and Varied Stook of EARTHENWARE. CHINA, AND GLASS WARE, Kept by the undersigned, will admit that Cus tom-house-street is tne proper place to go to, EDWARD LEWIS. An Experienced Packer Engaged. TCT O T I O JS. Wm. PYE has removod to the New uildings on Queen-stroet Wharf—Rail way Dining Rooms —and hopes to see his old customers back again, and also invites the general public to giro him a'call,



Mr A. Bettany announces that all purchasers of goods to the value of 5s will receive a ticket entitling tho holder to a ohanco in a gift art union. We notico that Mr Phipps is running a 'bus daily from Queen-street to Wellington street at the low fare of threepence, for the accommo dation of persons residing m that district. The enterprising proprietor deserves encourage- j ment. I To-morrow I shall offer for sale at the Central 5t9.11. City Market, some of the best dairy fed Bacon and Hams that have ovor been cured or sold In th's colony. Canterbury Prize Cheese simo as last week, also cheap Currants and Muscatels, Raisins, and a lot of other useful Christmas bargains. A numbered ticket will be given to each person purohasinu 5a worth and - upwards, and this will give a chance to eaoh tloket-holder to obtain oue of the three follow ing Prizes, which will be given away on tho Art Union principle : l_t Prize, a Sidoot Very Primo Dairy-fed Bacon; 2rd Prize, a Large Ham : 3rd Prize, a Prime Old Canterbury C herse. P.S.— Ticket holders will be informed through the Star as to the time and place of drawing, and the lucky numbers wiU altonvarda be adver tised, and ttio33 holding them will please call at the Central Btall next Friday, Chiistmas evo, and receive their gifts. This is a genuine thing, and will bo conducted striotly on the square, Lot it he understoood that tho tickets aro not sold, but givon away to purchasers as above stated. As eaoh person will receive full value for the money they spend, every one cau judge of that for themselves, when they compare the prices and quality of the goods with those of others.—A. Bettany.—[ Advt.j