SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

iHIO*! WATTm} Tnls -Evening, — ■Hiua WAlKli] Tomorrow Morning, 0.11 ■ t'N SKT.—This Kvonlng, G. 29 SUN Ulaie.—To-Morrow Morning, 5.53 MOON'S AGK.-Last Quarter, 4th, 10.15 a m.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY. G'cnelg, s 6., Farquhar, fi om Tauranga Anno Milbank, p.s., Anderson, fro:n VVhangarci Agate, barque, brown, from New Yoik.

DEPARTURES.

TO-DW". Rotorua, ss., Melnto=h, for the Sou'h

PROJRCTKD DEPARTUKKS. Tauranga—Glonel?, Friday For New Plymouth and Southern Port 3—

Taiaroa, Wonnes iay For Rusaoll—lona, Monday; HaWea, Friday For Tmiranga and Southern Ports—llaweu.

Monday Whanßorei—Argylo, Tuesdays and Fridays

Anne Milbnnk, Mondays and Thursdays Lyttelton.—British Kmpirc.

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Caledonia, schooner, from Tonga. Mazeppa, schooner, from Rarotonxa. Sovereign of the Sea?, cutter, from New Cale donia. Hona, schooner, from Timnra. Bisnmrck, H.1.G.M.5., from Samoa Earl Granvillo, ship, from London ; Bailed No vember 29 Flirt, brigantino, from Timaru. Tubal Cain, schoonor, from Lovuka. JMaiicn, schooner, from Norfolk Island. Elinor Vernon, harquo, from New York; Eailoa 10th November Treyelyan, ship (V.N.TI.S.), from London ;load ing. Look Out, brigantine, from Sydney.

IMPORTS.

Per Stracathrn, f'om London : 10 caßes jujubes, 10 cases teo, 1 bole collar cbecka and keraury, 1 bale saddlers' serges, 2 cases stair cloth, 2 cases waterproof clothing, 2 bales Dutch ho up, 3 cases twine, 15 ca=ea chlldts night ii^ht", 2 casts Tnnu'd saD3, 2 case 3 ponbet knives, I cases cabinet furniture, 2 eases cljth ing, 3 cases dolls, 1 casks driers, 80 drama lin-:ced oil, 2 cases box rule?, 10 barrels canary see J, 9 c -ses cream oC tarta-, 1 biles sheepskin ca-peis. I case silver necklets, hair lrushes, praito graphs, 1 cieo watch koys, brooches, ear-rings, couibs, 1 case braceletj, jewellery, &c, 2 cases Noah's ark toys, 1 case flower stands, 2 bale clothes lines, 1 case costumes, 1 case hats, 1 case kaleidoscopes, lease to/ bo:ks, 2 bales bits, 5 cases glycerine soap, 2 balej ruvs, i cases sun dries, 2 cases wiuo glasses, 2 cases baskotware, 3 cases clock 3. 200 caso3 brandy, 1 cr^co plates, nnd diahes, 1 cisc dishes, 2 crate 3 cups and saucers, 1 crate mugs, 11 rats jugs,2 crates toilet s;tte, 1 case cups and saucers and jugs, 2 casks samples, CO boxes dates, 5 cases loolriDg gla se?, I exxsj corks:rew=>, leasesundrlts,3casebO ives, ■\ cases waterproof clothing, 25 casts.furniture, 5 ca^es sherry glasses—X. and A. Isaacs.

600 boxes candles, 20 cases galvanized iron, 2o t n<< iron ballast, 125 casks phosphate of lime.— W. S. laurio.

F-'Per Agate, from New York: 1,700 casscs kcrosinc oil, 100? boxes and 10 cases of tobacco, 501 packages dried apples, 5 packages carriages and waggons, 18 packages carrlasowaro, 12 packages towitig machines, 2 pump?, I caEcs shovels, 20 packages nails, 155 packages hard wrro, 3 cases handles, 12 neais tuba and pails, 50 casss lobsters, 125 casc3 sarsaparilla, 1 case owau, 0 birre's shoe-peg 3, E0 cases balsam, 35 cases varnish, CO cases pai-fumory, IG.COO -slatt-s, ■JOj barrels sugar. 10 birrels clay, 19 trunks, 90 bairols provisions, g packages macbircry, C casks seeds.

EXPORTS.

Per Rotorua for Gisborne—l cases, 1 bundl« corks. For Nap'.er—3 ke<s butter, 1 cask beer, 1 trunk. For Wellington—so cases ealmon, U cast s frnit, 1 package. For Lytteltou—6 cases fruit, 2 bales, 1 trunk. 1 box. For Dunedin—l box. For Bluff—l safe. For Melbourne—l package stationery,

T.vwards Co.jstwish:.—Perseverance, from "Waihcko, with 300 bushels sand ; Adah, from Thames, with 21,000 feet sawn timber ; 1 tv-;oon, from Manala, with 23,650 feet timber; start, from Ngunßuru, with 22,059 feet timber; South Carolina, from Uti-ricr, with 50 tons firewood, and 1 bags gum; Janet, from Whangarei, with SOO bushels lime.

Outward Coastwise :—Pessoverance for Wailcekf. Adah for Thames. Start for Nguirguru. Mercury for Tairua. Chi iatina for Rus-ell. eolith Carolina for Barrier. Janet for Sandsuit with 10 tons coal.

Tho s h. Argylewill arrive to-morrow morning from Whangarei and Mangapai She will leave again for tho snnri pots in the evening.

The briganti:;o Oamßi-u arrived at Newcastle from this port ou -Monday la3r. Sho is now loading there witli co*l for Oamaru.

The schocner3 Advanco and Opotiki, now lying at tlie reclamation, will be ofto'cd for sole at Arthur's auction ma-t on the 11th iintant.

Tho schooner Si?sy sailfd from Grcymouth for the Thames yes'.orday with a cargo of coal.

Thobarqu s Mary Milertd and Stag clearer! Nt tho Customi to-day, the former for byfiney, and tha latter for Newcastle.

Tho barcjuc l-.lmirant'a entered out for New York.

Tho ship British Empire has almost completed her discharge, nnd she will bo a clean ship in a day or two. Sha leaves far Lyttelion to load with grain for London.

Tho s.s. Glenclg arrived from Tnuranga today with 11 bales wool and ttio fo lowing passen gers :_Mr onH Mrs h lircnfricd, Mr and Mrs Brett, Mr a-it Mrs Kilgour, Mrs Snaughneesy, Mrs Brown, Aiessrs Bennett, Horke, Armutronjr, Bovan, und White. Bho reiuins to the same ptrt to-morrow evening.

The following passengers left par Itotorua for tho South this morniutf:—For Uisbome : Miss l)unlop, Mr and Mrs Bonnott, Pomaro Kingi. Forfvapier :J. Gunn. For Wellington: Messrs Bacon, Kldor, Liardct, Abrahams, M^eais, Battley, Air and Mrs Jardine and two eh ldren. For Lyttelton : Me sis Perry (2), Cook. Cor Dnnedin : Mrs Arno'd and two children, Messrs Kwing, Thos. Simon, Kutherford. For Mel bourne : J. Hill.

BARQUE SIGNALLED.

A barque insido Tiritiri was Eignalied when wowent to press,?

ARRIVAL OF THE AGATE.

The Agate, a fin?-looking wooden barquo of about 500 tons register, arrived from JSew Ifork, via Adelaide, this afternoon. Aa bho enmo up the barnour, beforo v. noth-eastorly brotze, Bhe presented a very pretty appearance. All the available canviis was Hot, and, baing snowy whito, it uppiared to considerable advantage. The vcs-el herself, too, w«3 unusually neat anl clean-looking. Sho ia under command of Gap tain Charles VV. Brown, who is now on liii first voyage in the capacity of skipper. Muiwith- Btanding thai ho is young in years, his abil ti- s are highly spoken of by tno passengers and cr w of ttio vcasel. Tho barquo left Adelaide thirty days agu; but, Ike the Mary Mildred aid Active, she has had head winds nearly the whole oC tht> pas a^e. We aro in dobtcd to Captain Brown for the fo'lovi iug report oC tho pißtaijo from New Yoik:— Left New York September 2-1,1379; arrived in Adelaide January 17, discharged portion of cargo for th t pirr, and toolc in some GO tons additional cargo for Auckland; left Semaphore anchorage, Port Adelaide, February 3; liad light easterly winia and calms, with fine weather, to South Cape, Tasmania: passed the Capo with strong south west galo3, which con tinned until February 17, from which date have had light easterly wind?, frequent calun, and thick foggy weather; sighted the Three Kiugs February 21, ilae weather, but 3'eady head winds from oast by saath to oast north-east, ■which continued till arrival. Passengers :—VV. JJe!hmar, wife, and child. Steerage, one. The Agate is now seeking freight. It ia probab.e that sli3 will f.o lienco to Newcastle.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA

DEPART URiCS.

Kliza Mary, brigantino, Arndt. f..r tho South

Tbo s.s, Taiarea, which left for tho South yesterday afternoon, took tho following passqn- KOrs:—Meedames Mes.-ago and 5 childiea, Mifs Keebitc, Mesars John A. Scott, John Wy»tt, J. McCosh Clark, T, Robinson, Farrell. Coote, Moore, Goldwater, Eroadhurst, Nolan, Wright, Gunn.

Tlie schooner Autkona lefi Grey mouth for Onchunga ycatorday with a cargo of coal.

Tho bripcantino E iza, Mary laft for tho South wiih a cui&o of timber y. st;rday.

KAIPARA SHIPPING.

Arrivals at Kaipara Hitads. Feb. 2i—Elizabeth, barque, from Mclbourno. „ 26—Swob. Pile, bngantine, from Welling ton. „ 21—Torca, schooner, from Lytto'toa. March 2—Rowena, a.s., from On-Jiunga.

DiPAI/IUKKS. Feb. 27—Ar&dr.ll, barque, for Sydnsy. ~ 28— '. 'oloiiist, sclioonur, for Wai!a Ta, AUu'cj; 2 Rowena, s.s , for liolciai ga.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

TAtTBANGA, tlii: day. Ibo s.s. Hawoa left for Auckland ut 11.30 a.m M ikgo.vui, this day. The s.s. lona arrived from Husso'l and Auck land at 3.10 p.m. yestsrclay.

\VEllington, yestenlay

Arrived—"VValtaki, from the south; Stella, from Taranasi; Uinemon, from Dunedin ; iluttermcra, fron London, after a parsofce ot !W days. Sailed- W( Uington, for south; Uo-a head lor Napier and East Coast.

Port Chalmbrs, yesterday,

Failed—Te Anau, for JVlelbourne; Arawata, for the north; pasteup ra for Auckland: Messrs T. ltoundwcan, Ashburne, anc Goldwater.

This day. Sailed : Moa for Kaipara; Wild Wava for Hobarc Town; Wakatipu for Lytto'ton.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE, AUCKLAND.

Mails will Closk as uni;kr:— This Day. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 5 p.m. Friday, oth instant. For Waihcke arid Coromandcl, per Coromandol, at 2.30 p.m. For Russell and Kawakawa, per Hawoa, at 3 p.m. For Wbltiungi, Tain a, Tauranga, and;Opotiki, per Glcnclg, at 1 p.m. For Whangarei Heads, and Wungarei, per Argvle. at i p.m. For Thames, per Kotomahana, at 5.30 p m. Saturday, C'h inptant. For Waiwera, Mohiranni, Matukana, Manga wai, Wa'pu, and Mangapai, per Koso Casey, at 10 u.i)]. Monday, Sb instmt. For lUissell Kawakawa, Hokianga, &c, per Arawa'a. at 3 p.m. For Kussell, Kawakawa, Wangaroa, and Mon gonui, per lona, at 1 p.m. For Australian Colonies, Batavla, Singapore, China, and Japan, via Torres B'raits, per Zealandla, immediately arter her ai-rival £rom Honolulu Lupplcrae-nrary Mails for India, Continent <f Kurop*, and United Kingdom, via Brindhi, parZealanriia, immediately after her arrival from Honolulu. S. B- mss. Chief Postmaster.

NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.

W.E.S.—The manuscript was kept for some time, but, not beiui; inquired after, was destroyed. Your last note is irrelevant ; you asked what the law was on the subject, and received a reply. Unless you can show that the law is other than was stated, further correspondence is idle. Your youii 1^ friend may think she is as able to take care of herself as any youth of 21, but she will have some trouble in inducing the Legislature to alter the law to meet her case.

BIRTH.

(STAFFORD.—On March 3, at Mount-strcot, Mrs N. Sta llbrd, of a son.

DEATH.

FITNKfcS.—On tho 3rd instant, at her paronti' residence. Brown-stiott. Pon.sonby, Ma-y Alico, infant danghtor of Georgo and Mary Anne Fitnes.s: iiKcd four mo.itliH. Tho funeral will tako iilnoo at 3.30 p.m. to morrow, sth inßtant.

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

THURSDAY, MARCH 4, 1880.

For the cause that lacks assistance. For tho WTong that needs resLstanct, Vot the future in the distance, And the k-co.I that «i c.-.n do.

The condition of the labour market in as depicted in a letter from our own correspondent, and in subse quent telegrams, is exceedingly bad. Tuo public men and newspapers have worked ie so well and havu been ho singularly successful in getting men employed on public works which will materially benefit the Empire city, that we might bo led to the uncharitable suspicion that the cry is a good deal bogus, and raised for a purpose. Perhaps there, is something of this in the eeasclessness of the agitation, which has caused the Government to send largo numbers of the men upcountry to make roads through the Waimate Plains. But making all due allowance for the readi ness with which all things are turned to good by those who are wise, there is evidence enough of real distress and lack of employment, consequent upon the complete collapse that has taken place in the mushroom capital. In a, report dated the lGth February, made by Mr A. G. Johnston, Relieving Officer, and submitted to Major Atkin son, he makes the following approximate estimate of the unemployed in Wel lington : —

Carpenters, sawmill hands, upholsterers, &c, 112. (Remarks—" Of those at work 20 are working on half-time and 52 will bo discharged directly unless contracts come in.") Iron-workers, 115. (Some of those employed arc at work on half time, and further reductions am contemplated.") Coachbuildcrs, smiths, &0., 50. ("Five more will probably bo discharged almost, immediately.") Shipwrights. ("Although the whole of these men aro in work it ;s anticipated that a number will be dischnrg' d at once—2o men eince discharged.") Plumbers, gasfittcrs, &c, 28. ("The work of a number of those employed is very precarious.") Painters and paperhnnijerc, GO. ("Work of others vuiy precarious") Printers, 12. ("Reduction expected in this trade shortly, sonic men will bs put on half time.") Labourers, navvies, &c, 200. Clerks, drapers' .assistants, &0., 30. Total, 577.

If the Relieving Officer's estimate is reliable, the distress is serious enough, for besides the men there are the wives of the 289 married people, and their children, amounting in all to consider ably more than a thousand persons, out of a, population of about 23.000,wh0 are without any means ef livelihood: The steps taken by the Government will, we suppose, have overcome the worst part of the difficulty, and the majority of the men are probably pro vided for temporarily and will ulti mately get absorbed in the genorol population. So far, good. But if wo seek the causes of this distress and consequent onus on the Government to incur extraordinary expenditure to support surplus popxilation vc shall,, we fear, find it in want of foresight and maladministration, The depression was not a sudden occurrence, but its approach was manifest to careful observers two years ago. At the beginning of 1879, the business collapse in Wellington was at its height — one firm following anothor in bankruptcy. People- stood at their shop doors and speculated on the. probabilities of their neighbours weathering the day ; property tumbled down headlong, and became absolutely unsaleable ; and yet we find from the immigration returns that 1,119 persons were landed in Wellington during the year ending 30th June, 1870, whose passages had been paid by the Government, at an average cost to the colony for each adult of £14 7s Gd, and per child, £8 7s 6d. This 1 is exclusive of the hundreds who

paid their own passages. It is these people, brought out at the expense of the Government who now have to be main tained by it. At a meeting in Wel lington, and subsequently at a deputa tion to Major Atkinson, strong remarks weremade regardingthe representations on which they were induced to come, the names of the Rev Mr Berry and Mr Buller being particularly specified. The Colonial Treasurer in reply to one immigrant who complained, said : '' The Government regretted that the labour market was in such a bad condition, but tho Government could not be held responsible if lecturers, and others at Homo, misrepresented the state of affairs in the colony. The Govern ment would be glad if the deputation would bring under their notice any case in which the agents had wilfully misled people, for then those agents would be ab once removed from their offices. The Government trusted that tho men who had already arrived would keep up their spirits and not givo way, because it was certain that

times would improve. They might be inclined to complain now, but he (Major Atkinson) was quite certain that a couple of years hence they would not wish to be in England again. He had been in the colony for many years, and had often liearxi new arrivals grumble, but he had always found that

after a time they wcro quite contented with the change they had made."

We quite agree with Major Atkin son that most of those who are now dissatisfied with their condition will yet be thankful for the good fortune that turned thoir steps to New Zealand. But the distress to the immigrants and cost to the colony might have been avoided if more discretion had been displayed in the conduct of the immigration system. The Government have, during . the last few months, put a check on free immi gration. Had this been dono earlier, the normal growth of the colony would have prevented the present difficulty. The time has come when free or assisted immigration should bo absolutely stopped. The colony has attractions enough for those who wish to settle, and if these were made widely known in England wo ought to gist a stream of good Bottlers who would bo no burden on the labour market of tho colony. One golden maxim ought novel' to bo lost sight of —immigration should always be proportioned to tho settlement on land. To Hood the towns with labour at a greater rate than the development of tho country and tho in creaso in produce justifies will inevit ably lend to tho deplornblo consequencos that have followed in Wellington, and in a lesser degree, in tho Southern parts of the colony. Auckland, which has received the fewest immigrants, has suffered least in the recent depression.

We are glad to see that the Government have made short work with the redoubtable Major Kemp. This notable Maori military hero, who has been in receipt of £100 a year for doing nothing, conceived that he had been treated discourteously in Welling ton. Koturniug to his home ho began playiug havoc generally, uud instead of preserving the peace was found encouraging hi.s tribe to various lawless acts. Failing to bring him to order by remons trance, the Government have removed him from ollice, thereby Having £400 a-year. No doubt the consequence will bo the implacable enmity of the erstwhile ofliccr, but it is intolerable that a man in the pay of the Crown should set n public example of disobedience and openly defy the law. Maori civil servants tavo been allowed an extraordinary amount ol latitude and have presumed a good deal upon fit ; and such a lesson as that which has been given to Major Kemp will probably have a salutary effect. Whatever his grievance may have been, nothing would palliate hi.s .subsequent extraordinary pro ceedings.

Witli reference to the reported introduc tion of plcuro-piieumouin, the Hon. V. Whitakcr has received the following tele gram through the Colonial Secretary's Ollice, Wellington. :—"'l ho folio Aing tele grams are just lecoived from the Colonial Secretary, Sydney, in reply to one from here" :—" Chief Inspector of Stock states that there has been no report of the existence of plcuro-pncumouia in any of the districts in which the cows flapped by the Htm came."—U. S. Co'l'iin

We regret to hear that Mr Kcnton has retired from the Chief Judge ship of the Native Lands Court upon his retiring allowance. There is a good deal of curiosity and speculation as to who his successor will be.

At tin! quarterly licensing meeting, held at Onchunga, yesterday, for the districts of Eden and Onehungu, the Junction Hotel, Kpaom, was transferred from Mr J. J. Smith to Mr Andrew Murray, of the Commercial Hotel, Onohuugn, from Charles Evinsou to Edward Mill*, The Commis sioners were Messrs Barstow (chairman), Patou, and Jackson.

We learn that no special train will lie put on for the accommodation ot persons visit ing the llilensvilla races on Friday next. Persons who may ha desirous "f attending the races therefore will bo obliged to leave the Queen-street wharf at ."5 o'clock by the ordinary boat, taking the train at JUarkiu's Point, and beds at Helensville.

The annual soiree of St. Luke's Presby terian Church, Komuera, under the pastoral care of Rev. G. Munro, will be held on tho 19th iust., when a tea will bo provided by the ladies, and addresses delivered by minister and friends.

A well known city tradesman has called at our ollice, and says, that although not a Mormon, he thinks' it but right, in justice to Elder Pcarco, to state what happened in his presence on board the Australia : lie was standing talking to Elder l'earco, hav inct him coming across from America. A young woman came up to the elder and said something to him. Pearco turned to our informant and said : " See here is a woman wants me to take her. But she is a married woman, and I should get into trouble if I did so, unices, she obtained her husband's consent." 'lhe woman went ay.. y, and the elder went on to talk to our informant on other subject--. He ia of opinion that Pcarce is not to blame in the couise which the woman took in attempting to leave her husband.

To tho Editor: Sir, —There must he something wrong with the Harbour Board, The last English ship that arrived here could not get a pilot, although blue lights wen; burned till the vessel was under the North Head; and, in reforming the pilot service, I think they made bad worse, if it can be made so. 1 hope an enquiry will be instituted concerning the default. l>y the way, can it be possible that the magic letter.* " D. E." stand tor " Devil's Engi neers ?" It looks like it by tbo way they are trying to tlnow dust in the eyes of the ratepayers. We have our live senses given to us, and Feeing n one of thcjii. We theiefore helievc our own eyes in preference to the two who sijj.n " D. E." after their names. Kings have lost their crowns for playing false with their subjects, and they may lose their situation by playk-g false to the people.— I am &c, IIATIiI'AYKH.

Mr Barry O'Neill, an old Auckland favourite, who will be remembered for his graphic aud intensely humourous delinea tions of Irish character has been tendered a complimentary benclit by the leading mem bers of the company playing at tho Theatre Koynl, which he has accepted, and Satur day evening has been lixed for the perform ance. The bill of faro will embrace a comedy by the Company, several new and popular songa, and a Hibernian farce, in which Mr Barry O'Neill will renew his ac quaintance with an Auckland audience after a period of eight years.

A concert is announced to take place in the I'onsouby Hall to-monow evening in aid of the widow of the late J. Moouey, who, it will be remembered, was drowucd at I'onsouby ou the 13th January. Con siderable sympathy for the poor woman is felt throughout the district, and large num bers of tickets fur the concert have been sold. The assistance of several of our lcad iug amateurs have been obtained, and a very attractive programme is in course of preparation. Apart from the deserving object for which it is given, tho concert should be suflicientto draw a large house.

A soiree will be held thii evening at the Ellerslio school, when the children attend ing the day school will lirst be regaled v.'ith tea and other good things, and afterwards Mr Demies will exhibit hi.-i new lime light Mugiu Lantern,which will doubtless prove a great ainusemeat to the youngsters,

Mr J. P. Hydes and Miss Amy Johns are at Cliristchuich. Mrs Searle was a passen eer to Sydney from Cliristchuich by the Kotomahana.

The lion. B. Oliver evidently makes sure of a long lea?e of ofuce, as he has taken up his permanent residence in Wellington.

The South Canterbury "Times" makes merry over Auckland's recent visitations. Was it Montaigu who said there was always some consolation in the misfortunes of others ? Referring to the Mormons, French immigrants, and pleuro pneumonia, our Canterbury contemporary says :—lt seems as if Auckland has been specially selected for the wrath of an insulted arch fiend, and if so, the sooner the inhabitants of that unlucky spot betake themselves to propiti ating the offended one in a sensible manner the better."

The tender of Messrs Frazer and Tiune of this city, has been accepted by the Government for the construction of three 3-ton cranes, required for nse in the harbour. The amount of their tender was £1,490. Ihe tend.;:- of A. and G. Price, Grahamstown, was i-2,050.

The stewards of the Union Company's steamers lately refused to sell liquors to other than bon'a fide passengers, while they were alongside at Lytteltou. The Press fays the superintending providore of the Company has issued an order on the subject.

The ordinary meeting of the Parnell Borough Council, was held on Monday evening. The Mayor, J. W. lioWnsou Esq, presided. Nothing of importance was done. Ihe Inspector of Nuisances reported a case of low fever as having taken place in Hobson Park. He had examined tho drains from the Soap factory, but had failed to detect in them any cause of. complaint. There were many worse piaccs in Parnoll, where the drainage was far more offensive, li was decided to interview the manager ol the Soap factory in order to make inquiries, and obtain the disconnection of the factory drains with those of the Borough.

The "Post" thinks there is a good deal of unnecessary mystery about Sir Hercules Robinson and the turf in JNcw Zealand.

The following challenge to the Mormons was issued by the brcthcru of the Christian Meeting House, but the elders have not vouchsafed n reply though some days have clauHul :■—" Dear Sir: Having hoard that in your endeavours to promulgate the Mormon Doctrine among our bretliorn and others, you have expressed your willingness to maintain its truth In public debate, we desire you to know that we feel it our dutj to oppose your pretensions—mid considering this may bo beat done publicly, beforo all, than by attending to a number of isolated cases—we therefore will meet yoii under such arrangements as may bo made by bott pattiex, understanding that wo recognize the l!ible as the word of God, and the sole standard of Itcvealed Truth. —I am yours, on behalf of tho Elder*, K. Davis. P.S. A reply can be sent by bearer.—To Mr S.OUIJNSON.

A " Heathen Chine " at Greymouth has defeated the police cm a point of law. The Mongolian luul pot np tho game of " filir tiui" or "chaw-lav," ami was tummoned before Hie Resident Magistrate. I'lie defence was that tho house wns a private house and did not come within the menu ing of the Viigraut Act. It was admitted that the Chinese weie playing a game, but it uai for ;i supper. Ili-i Worship hold the point raised fatal to the case, as there was no law in New Zealand against any person keeping a private gambling house, and lie doubted if tho English Act could apply. Tho case wa-s dismissed.

A controversy is goini; on in the corres pondence columns of the " Sydney Morning lleiald" in tho quality of tea imported into tho culouicH. His asserted that large quantities of te:i which has been adulterated with other leaves finds its way to the colo nies from China, the Adulteration Act in England having had the cll'ect of keeping it out of the English marker. The use of Indian teas is advocated.

Tlirrc \va* a singular and in these times refreshing example of conscientiousness at llio l'uuicll AMsotimciit Court to-day, when llio iisscasinoiit <if Mr Cozimi'm propeily mis raised nt his own request from jC^3 to £25. Who sry.s there is no honesty in Auck land ?

To the Editor: Sir,— Having noticed in your last issue a statement to the elicet lh.it Mr Chupman and Mr Breeze had retired from tho Phonograph, we beg to reply Jiai he ututeincut in entirely fuloo. We shall atill continue as proprietors of the instrument, and shall exhibit it at a suitablo place as s'jon as possible.—Yours,etc, A. CuaI'MAN, J. Ukkkzb.

The enthusiiustic rcceptiou fjiven to General KauH'man at Tiishkcnd shows that th«; ambitious designs of Russia in the East are not iibandoueil. The Uciliu cor respondent of tho " Daily News" recently wiote that information had boon received fii>iu tjt. Petersburg that orders had been issued f(jr two campai<!lifl in the Spring ; one under the coinmnnd of General Kuull man, who would collect three or four tinny Corp.-, iv all about thiity or forty thousand men, from Orenburg and all parts of Tur kestan ; while the other would bu drawn from thu an,iv of thn Caucasus. I'hcsi; armies, directed from the north and west were to converge upon Afghanistan whore it wni expected th.it the inountiiiu tribes ami other natives would CO-O])erale upon assistance being j^iven to them. Again, the " liroad Arrow" of November Hays that a reinforcement mini boring from 30,000 to 10,000 men hull been oideied by tho Kushiaii GuTcrniucnt to proceed from the Caucasus to Central Asia.

A gentleman residing in Auckland lias forwaidcd us tlio following chhq of ccutou iniuiii^m for tlio fact of wJiicli bo i* in a poaitiun to vouch :—" Tin: long diluted problem as to I do possibility of man reach ing i In: ago of ;i centenarian lias received ;in all'mnitive solution nt Orston, Notts,, the proofs of whicli nui in no way !>•• (ques tioned, Oa November 27th, Mr. Thomas Multby, tanner, liviugat that village, com pleted his huudredth year, and on that day theio wa« a very extensive family gathering of his children and grandchildren to cele brate tli« event. Mr. Mallby's health hav ing been propoßcd, he made a very animated response in returning thanks, afterwards having a king conversation with some of those who assembled round him. At bin request all tiie children in (ho village from three to thirteen years of age were invited to come to his house, to the number of 140, each of whom received a bun. The village bells were rung all day, and the anniversary was observed as a general holiday. Mr. Maltiiy has been married for iifty-six yearn, and his ■wife—who is eighty years of age—exhibits extraordinary energy nnd activity. Mr Maltby in las former days wasa horse dealer, and is still |foud of relating stories of bis youth, tho details of which he remembers in a marvellous manner. II is sight is some what liupared, and he is confined to his bed, but apart from this he appears to he in good health and spirits. The fact that Mr. Maltby lias entered upon his hundred and first yea" is established by nil extract from the Urston church register of which the following i< a copy : " 1770. Thoiurw, son of William and Alice Maltby, baptized November3otb. — Jonathan Foil curate; Thomas Maltby ami Samuel Fryer, churchwardens "

The lliild anniversary of the I'onsfinby Wcßlo.vaii Church was held last evening in the Ponsonby Hall. Thero was a large at tcndiuico aud Hindi interest manifested on the occasion. Tlio following lady mcmheTs of tho church attended at the tallies : — Mcsdurnes W. Tronic, J. Gittos, G. M. Main, Bettany, Hutchison, Dloomlicld, (liillitliH, (Joodacre, Lues, lthodes, Heron, McElwaiu, and Jcssop. Tlic subsequent proceedings wove couinicnced with prayer by licv. C. Urillin, and tlio singing of tbo 225 th hymn (Wesley'B collection). Mr J. L Wilson occupied the chair, and remarked upon the immediate object of the mooting, Mr J. dittos, the steward of tho church, then tame forward with tho report, which he read to the congregation. The report showed progress, and that the little church was doing a good work in the locality between Pousonby aud Newton. Tho ro port .stated that 110 sittings were occupied, and six unlet. Tlio remainder were ro pcrvcd for the Sabbath scholars. A sum of £122 3s Od had been raised on the church trust account, and £IS2 ISs 4d for circuit purposes and Sunday-school work, making a total of £305 2s 3d. The gallery erected last year had becu of great scrvico to the choir and the junior school classes. The present church was not lar;,'e enough, and ihe tin.c Lad come when it would have to lie enlarged, or a new one built, and tho trustees replied on the hearty co-operation of all the friends of tho can«e in the circuit The present debt on the church waa £270, bearing interests at S per cent. Tho balance-sheet was also submitted, aud b'ing satisfactory was, with the report, adopted. The addresses were specially instructive and interesting. Kov. I). W. Runciman spoke on "The J.'arniony of Science and Revelation," Kcv. J. J. Lewis on "Public Worship," Kcv. W. Moiioy on " Denoiiiiuationalism,' Kcv. C. Griffin on " Christian Worship," and Mr Thorno on "Christian Unity." The choir rendered f-ome choice musical selections, and several members sang solos. Votes of thanks were accorded to the ladies who presided at tlio tables, to the choir, the apeakois, and the chairman, and tho Doxology concluded the proceedings.

There tiro two things that a fellow can't do at the name time—held a good-looking girl ou his lap aiid wot kiaa her,

Amongst the converts wlio accompanied Elder Pearce to Salt Lake City was a Mrs Jackson and her three children, from Christ' church. Mrs Jackson is a buxom widow, whose husband died some time ago ana leu her a little property, which she sola to defray her passage to the City of the baints. It is said that she is to be Mrs Pearce No. G.

The Handicaps for the A.A.A.C sports in the Domain ground, on the 13th instant, compare well with former meetings, and it the acceptances ore as good, there will be no lack of competition. On careful perusal, no one seems to be thrown in, so we shall reserve our tips till after the acceptances.

The hot weather docs not seem favorable to married life judging from the number of applications for "separation" daily made at the Police Court, by married women, sighing for the freedom of single blessedness. No less than four such applications were made this morning by women in distress,1 groan ing under the tyranny of their husbands iron rule. The cause of the discontent is only gu'.'hsetl at; sonic say it is the heating nature of beer, some the influence of the Mormons, and Oihers tiie nightly worry of mosquitoes.

Captaiu Kaspar has perhaps the finest show of maize in tli" 01 til, as far as quality is concerned. 11" |>m six acres of this valuable prodnct, nnd if tho Mahurangi show had been h'kl, !-i- f»rm at Casey Ft. would probably in.ye c mod off first prize for maize. The worthy cn.tiin has shewn great tact in the mun:pulati-»n of his estate, anil 1188 xt:t v good example to other settlers. During the last year, his efforts took an ornamental turn, the result of which is that an almost endless row of young firs dot the summit of the high lands, and will when grown form a pretty land mark.-;

The "Post" indulges in lamentations over the existing distress in Wellington. It complains of " Universal duluess and depres i4cn ; business stagnant in all branches; luything like progress seemingly dead ami buried : the streets full of unemployed ; is ambers of men still being discharged or likely to be ; a general cry of poverty and distress," and it attributes this to the back country being closed The post also says, " Let any Wellingtouiau pay a visit to Christchuich, Dunediu, Timaru, Oamaru, or Invercargill, or even to Auckland, and he will find in every direction signs of business life and activity." Further on, referring to the apathy of the people oi Wellington, the Siinie journal says that •' n constant, persistent, and restless agitation for justice and perhaps something more" is going on in every other part of the colony but Wellington,\ve wi-ih this were true 01 Auckland.

Captain Preeco, li.M., who has for a number of years been Resident Magistrate for Opotiki, left Tauranga by the Union Company's «.*. Wanuka for Napier, where, we understand, he is to take charge of tiie Native Department for the i'awke's Bay district.

The first number of tho Auckland " Punch " is to hand. The cartoon, which is well-executed, depicts tho Premier iv a car riage drawn by Messrs lluist and Swanson, and pushed by Mr Reader Wood. The lion. John Hall ails in the curriage " taking a lunar," while his hatia Hying in tho air. On tiie panel of the carriage ore tho words " Justice to Auckland." "Punch " given some lively sketches of his travels in 'iaranaki and oilier illustrations. "The Portrait Gallery " commences with two excellent ilikcnesHOs of ll in Evccllency tho Governor and the Bishop of Auckland. Verses on the Harbour Board and the He- L-attti1 Committee, an article Oil " Old Fossils," " Mrs Bouncer's letter," " impor tant ovonts which are likely to happen very shortly," and " I'unch's Perigimatjonß," are the chief literary features. The first num ber is ii very creditable production.

"The Jay of Plenty Times" notices amongst visitors to Tauranga Mr. Bennett, proprietor of the "Sydney livening News' and "Town and Country Journ:il,"jMr. More, a prominent member of the Victorian Legislature, with his .son and daughter.

A diaabtvous lire broke out yesterday iii the farm-house of Mr Bovaird, situated at Tamaki East during the absence of Mr and Mrs Dovniid, who were on business in Auckland at the time of the occurrence. Mr Bovaird, jun., v grown-up young man, was left in charge of the premises, but in s'.eud of obeying the iujunctiou of his parents, he went out on n shooting excur sion and left the house to take care of itself. The house contained mx rooms, well-fur nished, but, unfortunately for the owner, neither house nor furniture was in sured. About half-past three o'clock a neighbour observed ii dense quantity of smoke issuing from one of the lower rooms, and thinking something was wiong, in formed Mr Styak of the circumstance, who, wit li others immediately went to (lie house and finding tho furniture ablaze, set to work with buckets and water, with the able view of cxtinguisljig the (lames. The iii c however had taken too yreat a hold upon the woodwork, and their endeavours to sub due it were ineffectual. Tho house and furniture were completely destroyed, but tho stacks and outbuildings were saved Mr liovainl estimates his losa at iMOU. Tho causa of the fire is unknown.

The latest of the Wellington " Punch " to hand contains two cartoons, one represent, ing Mr. Oliver, Minister of Woiks, among.* the sciies of " Men of the Time " the other " Ministerial employment during I he recess" three ministers being represented as negro minatrcls, lion. J. Hall (bones) Mr Oliver (banjo) and Mr Whitakcr (tambourine). The leading article is'on " Gridironing' of the Courlcnany Hoad Pattern. The follow ing " Iragmeiit or Colonial life "is given :— She was oaly a gill with long yellow hair. Fast, going out of her teens. A little freckled in the skin, and almost moon faced. Strong white teeth and blue eyes were the most striking features in her face. He was a Civil Servant. They met. How, is best ■lot to tell. She demure, yet shy, withal, and he fact after the niiiiiner of men with small income-'. She was a waif. He had fiicnds. I do not know whether she designed the second meeting, but it took place ; then a third followed, and then many others. He had only intended to amuse himself; but the gill grew upon him. lie could not shako oft" her presence when away from her ; and thus their meetings took pluco nightly. They were both young, however, and this will excuse them. Tno girl kept marriage steadily in view ; and she married him—not ho her. Half a honeymoon followed - the lirst and the last weeks in tho month ; and then repugnance jet iii. They had met, and married; and then they parted for ever. She went to New South Wales, and sent him notice of her death. He, like a wise man, married a woman with money; and she, although dead, married a widower from Queensland. Olive branches arose from both the second marriages ; and the two men and the two women and their belongings all met at the Sydney Exhibition- dined together; and the Civil Servant aud the woman with the yellow hair sang (he duet " Oh ! does not a mooting like this make amends,"

Major Morrow requests a full attendance .if the members of No 3 company at the Parnoll Hall to-morrow evening.

Captain W. Farquhar, of the s.s. Glcnelg, informs us of a very strange phenomenon which he witnessed on the coast. Between Opotiki aud Taurauga millions of dead lish including schnapper, kahawai and mullet wen; floating on the surface of the water, while the beach was thickly strewn with them. He attributes the cause to one of tho Whilo Island mbmarine volcanoes. Captain Mc.Gillivray, on his arrival at Taurauga on Tuesday last, also reported large numbers of deadfifll between Auckland and White bland. The Whakatane correspondent of the " Day of Plenty Times," writing on the subject, says :—"Tho fishes of the Day of Plenty have been giving up the ghost all along this coast. This and several other liaibours, and also the outside coast, have daily for several weeks past presented tho spectacle of shoals of fishes of various sorts coming on shore to die. They seem to be oppressed ami with hoad out of tho water, gasp for breath. Some are washed ashore dead. Soveral barracouta, a lish not com monly found in a, tidal river, have been " caught " so in Whakatauo harbour. When opened these lish hare nothing in their stomachs. The most likely way of accounting for this most unusual, indeed unprecedented phenomenon, is to attribute it to the extreme warmth or heat of the sea water this summer, which would seem thoroughly to enervate the iishes.

Tlio now P. 0. S. system now boing initiated by (i. and C. will certainly provo a benclit to the i.ub io. It has been a i?reat suc'tsj iti Sydney find Melbourne, and when strictly carried ou tli.i customer who buys ftt nn establishment whoro the ttooda ara marked low to ensure «, rapid wile must bo n great gahuv. C 3. and C. 801 l (heir drapery, millinery and clothing at such pricoa for cash as (jives tlio buyor tho advantage of a shareholder in a co-oponitivo 8 cioty, with out the loss should tho year's business prove un siuisfnctoiy. G. and O. will aim to retain tho Ciintlduncu which the public have hitherto shown them, and are determined to give tho pure cash system a fair ti ial ; whether they tain or lose tho Bret year. Country buyers on remitting cash with order will ba supplied with good* at co operative prices, just the who as though they had made a personal flolection. Kuni'shing Koorifi, such as carpets, lloor cloths, bedsteads, bertdinir, and genciMl house furniture, tho larg o-tport'.oa of which U tv nost out at our own Factory, will be marked at the lowest rcnuinorfl. tivc prices, iwi'i a discount ot five percent, will bo allowed to tho:?o who pay at the time of p1 r chase. Having real-zed tho en tiro value of iho stock duviui,' iho late cash sale, the present stock A KSW AND VKHY CHEAPLY HOUGHT. All in, BpCOtlOn ]H invited.—G»«l,lCK AND lil'AN VVWLL- City Hall JfuraisUiug Arcade, tiueea-stteet

CABLE NEWS.

EUROPEAN.

(SP3CIAL TO PEBSS ASSOCiATitfH.)

Attempted Assassination of General MeKkoff. ST. PKTEKSBURGH.

March 3,

A pistol was fired at General MelikolF in the streets.

The General escaped unhurt.

The aesassian has been arrested. Affairs in St. Petersburg,

ST. PETERSBURG.

March 3.

The city is quiet, the recent measures having had tho effect of calming public anxiety^ and checking further out breaks.

London Times on Victorian Crisis.

March 3,

The " Times in its leading article to day comments on the result of the Vic toria elections. It advises the Govern ment ot' Victoria to pursue a moderate and logical policy of progress in order to deprive the Berry party of a plausible excuse for making an appeal to the popular passions of the democratic party.

"Standard" on Victorian Elections. LONDON.

Marcn 3.

Tho " Standard " in a loading article rejoices over the defeat of the Berry party, and expresses a belief that a moderate Government will happily settle the question of reform. The Oamaru Loan. The Oamaru Loan of £50,000 is already at 7^ premium. The whale of the £00,000 has been subscribed. Gressel has been arrested, TJae " Times" and Free Trade. The "Tiixes" considers the defeat of Berry, virtually means an approval by the Colony of a Free Trade policy. LONDON. March 2. The New Zealand Loan aud Mer cantile Agency report under date, I ondon, 2nd March.

The Wool Sales. The wool sales progress firmly. They comprise about 187,000 bales. The list is now closed. 2G,000 more bales have been sent to the manufacturing districts direct. The sales will close on the 12th. Up to date 121,000 bales have been sold. The principal advance has been in cross-bred, superior greasy, superior combing, washed and scoured. The competition by both Home and Foreign buyers is active. The next sales will commence on the 20tli proximo; 350,000 bales being admis able. Tallo-w. The tallow market is quiet, best mutton being worth £37, and best beef .£35 10s per ton. Foreign arrivals are light.

Wheat. Adelaide, is worth GOs, and New Zealand 57s per 49G pound?. The leather market is flat.

[reuter's special cablegrams.]

Persia and Herat.

March 2.

With reference to the statements made last month that Persia proposed to occupy the Afghan province of Seistan it ling nnw transpired that Persia has abandoned her intended expedition into the province, aud it is further partially confirmed that the Hritish Government will not permit Persia to occupy Herat.

The Attack on Bussian Em bassy. CONSTANTINOPLE. Marcli 2. The recent attempt on the lives of two Russian nlliciulH connected with the Em bassy at Stnmboul is proved to have been without political significance. Festivities in Honor of the Czar. ST. PETERSBURG. March 2. Thero have boon great festivities in this city to-dny in honour of the accession of the Czar. (Jreat enthusiasm has been displayed l>y the people. The Czar has received n letter from tho Einpnror of Germany, con taining congratulations and expressions of long friendship. LONDON, Marcli 2. Two valuable purc-brod bulls have been purchased at Oxford by Mr McCulloch for shipment to Australia. The Wool Sales. LONDON. March 2. At tho wool sale to-day 8,400 bales were offered, making a total of 125,600 bales catalogued since tho opening. The market to-day was firm and thero was au activo demand tor all descriptions. Prices have rurther advanced id to Id all round.

Money Market

Threc-pcr-ccut. Consols are unchanged at 97i'. Five-per-cant, New Zealand loan, 102. 4} New Zealand loan, 06J.

Adelaide wheat hns decliucd ouo shilling, and is now quoted at 59s per 4%'lbs ex warehouse.

AUSTRALIAN.

[UNITED PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

New Zealand Securities,

MELBOURNE.

March 3. New Zealand fivc-jter-ceut. deben tures are quoted at 108-15.

[UKUTERS TELEGRAMS.]

Cutting Down Guberna torial Expenses.

This day.

The Legislative Assembly last night refused to vote a salary for an assistant to the Private Secretary to the Governor or an increase to salary and forage fur the Aide de-camp. Strong exception was taken to a statement by Sir Henry Parkes, Premier, that the increases had been submitted in compliance with a message from the Gc vcrnor. The Victorian Ministry. MELBOURNE. March 3. Mr Service is busily engaged forming a new Administration, the personnel of which will be known to-morrow. The following have been named, aa being likely to form part of the ncv> Ministry :—Messrs Murry Smith, Cooper, Beet, Dully, and Hereford, and Mr McMahon is spoken of as likely to be appointed to the Speakerehip. Datriwell and Caspian arc the firm favourites for the Cup. The shipments of wheat which have ar rived have been sold at advanced prices. There have been 190 cantatas received] in competition for the prize otl'eied for a cantata to be performed at the opening of the Exhibition.

The Crew of the Metar.

March 3.

Campbell, a notorious aboriginal despe^ rado, has shot a black tracker in the arm.

The barque Gazelle has brought to Bris bane eighteen of the crew of the ship Metar, which has been wrecked on the Solomon Group. She also brings a family named Teleavcn, who were on board at the time that the vessel was wrecked.

No mau was ever hanged with a cord of wood.

TELEGRAPHIC

{PER UN If ED PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

GtRAIIAMSTOWN, this day. fgDRISCOLL V. NORWICH UNION. The case of Driscoll and the Norwich Union Company, claim £50 for Insurance was finished at 10 o'clocd last night, the Jury returning a verdict for the plaintiff with costs £15. Anothef action to recover the balance of Insurance £ISO will be tried in the Supreme Court. . The a<*ent here swore he had not receired the premium, while plaintiff's wife and an independent witness present in the store at the time, deposed that it was paid, me receipts were alleged to have been destroyed in the fire. Messrs Tyler and Hcsketli, ot Auckland, appeared in the case on eacn side, instructed hy local solicitors?. MINING. The New Whau expect to come upon the golden run, which gave the Alburnia such good dividends, in 12 feet more sinking. They will break down the reef in the winze about the middle of next week. Shares have cone up to 27s 6d, firm, and there are buyers in consequence o* the excellent mdi- I cations.

TAUIIANGA, this clay,

Sir Julius Vogel writes that the conduct of Mr J. P. Warbrick in saving the life of Mr Vercoe will be brought before the Humane Society;

WELLINGTON, Wednesday,

In consequence of Major Kemp's conduct in connection with the Murimotu difliculty, the Government to-day recommended to his Excellency that " he be dismissed from all his appointments." l\ is understood that his Excellency approves of this step. The Native Minister left for Napier this moruiii", to arrange matters respecting the dispute between Mr Sutton, M.H.H., and the native?. Arrangements are being made for taking on another hundred of the unemployed, to be engaged in road-making. In sentencing a woman named Annie Dryer to four weeks, for vagrancy. His Worship said she had had three illegitimate children, of whom two had disappeared in a mysterious manner.

FATAL ACCIDENT. A report has just reached tovn that a man has been killed and another seriously injured, by a fall of gravel in the ballast pit at FeatherstoD. Typhoid fever is prevalent in some parts of the city. The Flower Show to-d.>y is a great success,

GIiEYMOUTH, Wednesday

MINE ACCIDENT.

A serious accident occurred to-day in the Brunner mine. The manager, Mr Elliott, and a carpauter named Broadford, were examining the mine, when the latter held a lighted candle to examine the works. An explosion of foul air occurred, aud both Mr Hlliott and Mr Broadford were seriously hurt. The mine is uuinjurcd.

CIIRISTCHURCH, this day

HEATHCOTE REGATTA

It was definitely decided last evening at an adjourned meeting ot the rowing men to hold the Ileathcote regatta on March 24th. £89 were collected for prizes. A man named Robert", loading gum at the railway station, had his foot crushed yesterday between die baps and a side truck, lie was brought down to Cirist church Hospital.

Several fresh cases of scarlatina broke out yesterday in the married peoples.' quarters of the Immigration Barracks on Kifa Island. The single women are in ex cellent, health, and will shortly be released from quarantine.

NELSON, this day.

FOXHILL RAILWAY.

A deputation appointed at the recent public meeting interviewed the Government re the necessity of pushiug on the Welling tou-Foxtou Railway. Practicably the answer was that the matter would be con sidered by the Railway Commission.

DUNEDIN, this day,

SCOTT THE PEDESTRIAN.

Young Scott, the pedestrian, and his trainer, Austin, are passengers per Waka tipu, which leaves port this morning. Scott gives an exhibition performance in Wellington on the 13th inst.; on the following Saturday he performs at Wan ganui; on the 28th at Napier ; and on the 12th April at Auckland. Scott and Austin thcu proceed Sydney.

WANGANUI, This day,

TURAKINA RACES.

There i 3 beautiful weather and a fair attendance.

hakdicav Hurdles. —Abolition, lOst 31bs, 1; Tupuaka, lOst, 2; Matu (lute Arohn), lOst, 3. Three others started.

Maiden Plate, of 35sovs. \\ miles.— Matu, 1 ; Port Wine, 2; Tauiouri, 3. Eigln started, 'lime, 2miiiß. 21secs.

Tuhakina Handicap, of SOsovs. 2 miles aud a distaucc.—Banshee, 1; Con fidante, 2; Resolution, 3. Five started. This was a splendid race, and was won by half a length. Time, -lmiiis.

Tho Pcoriug Race, oE 20sovs., was won by Raudwick, Soukar second.

The Distaucc Race, of 30aovs., was won by Abolition.

The Consolation Stakes was won by Soukar.

TIMARU, this day.

NEW TRIAL REFUSED.

In the riot cases an application was made for a new trial on the grounds that irrelevant evidence had been allowed, and the jury misdirected was re fused, but scutence was deferred, pending the result of an appeal to the Supreme Court ou the poiuts raised by tho defence.

THE AMATEUR DRAMATIC CLUB.

Tuk members of this club gave an excellent entertainment to their friends last cveuiug iv tho Albert Hall. The audience was select and enthusiastic, and generally the performances were unquestionable, con sidering that they were ot an unprofessional character. The orchestra included Mr Johu McGinloy, first violin, Miss McGinley, second violin, and the Misses Craig, pianists. The proceedings opened with au original prologue written by one of the members and spoken by Mr Keesing with elocutionary cll'cct. An overture followed by the orchestra. The first part of the actual programme comprised the dream and murder of Clarence, by Mr T. ti. Keesing, as the Duke; Mr F. H. McGinley, as Brackcnbury ; Mr K. \V. Sceats, as first murderer ; imd Mr A. 11. Keesing, as second murderer. As every representative had studied his character to great advantage, the scenes wore depicted with greater success. Mr T. H. Keesing, as the unhappy Clarence, was the soul of the act, and, by his eloquence, bearing and nccotsary declamation, was entirely master of the situation, arrestiug the lixed attention of the listeners from Brat to last. Mr Keesing evidently possesses poetic conception and power of ex pression, combined with :i keen iusight into the creations of Shakespeare and the faculty of giving form to this subject, by making the personages of the great dramatic poet's invention reveal themselves uncon sciously to listeners and observers. This, it must be confossed, is an important quali fication in an actor, and, when associated with a lively imagination and ready com maud of language, and with an eye to dramatic effect, give an assurance in the performer of creditable results. Mr McGinley, as Brackcnbury, was rather tame The murderers were ssiifliciently re presented by Mr A. 11. Keesing, and Mr Sceats. The second section of the enttr taiument, was chiefly comic. "Susan's Suuday Our," by Mr Dalton, iv the garb of a policeiaan, was laughable, eliciting immense laughter. " Nelly Grey " a reef tation by Mr T. Kessiug was cleverly execu ted, and encored. The reciter iv response gave Tom Hood's well kuown pathetic ballad, " Sally Brown." Mr K. W. Sceats, sang tho liuc sentimental song " Queen of the .Night," which was received with special favour. "Silly Billy," by S. Dalion, was extremely ludicrous after Shakespeare, but it was a change which seemed to be approved by all present. Mr Sceats was a good make up, in the character soug of the " Dutch Belle." The last piece of acting was the comic drama or farce "An Awful Toothache," consisting of seven charae'ers, which was one of the best things of the kind that we have witnessed in Auck land. It has frequently been the custom to lavish indiscriminate praise on amateurs, when ofttimes, the tail-pieces or nigger farces deserve reprobation as insults to the iatel ligeuce aud good sense of the people. The farce, for such it was of " '.toothache had a beginning, an object a consecutive story, and a reasonable finish. The characters of "Frank" an enterprisiug lover, by Mr Seeafs, " Joues the Dentist," by Mr T. H. Kcesiug, "Small bones," the Irish assis taut, Mrs Jones, by Mr A. H. Keesing and the modeat " Belinda " by Mr. F. M.c- Giuley, were unique and cleverly portrayed by several actors. Mr Sceats played the part of the lover, with the toothache, with loveliness, freedom af speech, and versatility

doinj( full justice to this character. Tin* burglars, Griffin and Twist, Messrs T> Talbot and S. Dalton, had but aemaHna^ to play; and were deficient »ppwcntly^S that active cautiousness which is expected in such a scene. The Dentist was inimit. able, between dread and the brandy-b itt!«" The character of Mrs Jones was h'iehi comic and exuberant, shewing a careful knowledge of t i,e resources of ordinary stage effect I, was altogether a capital piece of actm* and well deserved the expressive enco' miums of the delighted listeners. \yl should also state that the violin perform ances of Miss McGiuley, namely, "S WPO I Home," and " The Last Kose of Summer'• with variations, were quite a triumph on thn part of the violinist, and deservedly encored The performances closed with the National Anthem, when the loom was cleared for dancing, under the efficient management nf Mr S. Dalton, who undertook the reannn sible position ot M.C. m'

Another Harmonium Trouble.

ONEHDNGA has been the scene of a dire feud between two iival sections of cold water advocates. The story of the Btrueeip which has raged with ereat bitternesk and has. culminated in a raid by a war pafty o t one of the belligerents, is too long for rec ; tal. The two parties had been jointly en' gaged in the cultivation of brotherly love and mutual forbearance, and in order to give zest to the meetings and to attcne their souls with sweet sounds of harmony had jointly invested in a harmonium upon •which the brother aud siaters were wont ta accompany the songs. Alts ! the spirit ot Jiscord seized the happy family, and tlia two brotherhoods went into hostile camps On Su.nday night a deed cf darkuess was perpetrated. " in ; the struggling raoon. beams' mitty lifcts* some person or persons unknown entered the Masonic HaU and removed the harmonium, a high-toned instrument, and JJie charter of the Hope of Manukau Lodge. The charter has since been recovered, but not the harmonium though the Lodge hopes to obtain a clue to its •thereabout'!. .

The Dibbs—Shepherd Scandal.

A CABLE message from Sydney last week conveyed intelligence that the proprietoro{ the "Sydney Evening News" bad bees censured by Jud^c Manning for publishing: the evidence in the case of Shepherd v- Dibbs, an action to £10,000 for slander. The case shews peculiar features. Ika plaintiff ia Mr Johu Shepherd, a member of Parliament, and the defendant is Mr G. B. Dibbs. A luge number of Counselwere engaged in the case. In 1874, a separation bad been agreed upon between Mr' John Campbell Dibbs, brother of the defendant, and his wife Jane. Mr Shepherd acted as solicitor for Mr.?. J. G. Dibbs. She bad to take the youngest child and was to get a certain monthly allowance. Years rolled on, and Mr Dibbs became much better off; the child also had become older, and Mrs Dibbs required more money. But on Mr Dibba refusing to give any more, Mrs Dibbs brought an action against her husbaud in the Divorce Court, for reetitu tion of conjugal rights, and Mr Shepherd again acted as solicitor for Mrs Dibbs. Mr l_>ibbs then commenced a divorce suit against his wife, making a Mr Charles Lithgo w iSJair co-i e<\ ondtut. That suit was proceeded with up to a certain stage, when Mr G. It. Dibbs, who appeared to take a warm personal interest in bia brgtheri family affair.*, made certain charges agaimt Mr Shepherd. An attempt had "also been made to make Mr Shepherd co-respondent to the divorce suit. That attempt failed and Mr Shepheid, considering/ the charges ruinous to his. profession as a solicitor, brought the present aclion for damages against Mr. G. K. Dibbs. A large amount of evidence was produced on the hearing of the case. The specirfe slander was that defendant had spread » report that Shepherd was improperly inti mate with Mrs Dibbs, and that when re monstrated with he had retorted that he was a single man, did'ntcare a ■ for any body, and would do as he liked. ! The intimacy was alleged to have taken, place at Shepherd's office, and at a house of assigna tion, in Elizabeth-Btreef, kept by a woman named Millar. W. H. Hicks, editor of " Sydney Punch, shewed that defendant had borrowed Shepherd's photograpk-from him for purposes of identification, remai- : ing that it was a stupid thing fora man to be improperly intimate with another nun's wife in order to "take out his costs "without locking the door. Mr John Hurley, J.P., stated that defendant had told him that Shepherd had been caught iv adultery with his brother John's wife. The plaiutiff was called and gave a flat denial to all the allegations. He denied that he knew a woman named Martha Fanning and other females whose nsines were mentioned hot, admitted that he had frequently met Womei at a house of astiguation. During the evidence the witness protested against defendant staring at him through. "JhoM,. glasses." Lewis Lampson was called anil swore that Shepherd had robbed him of I £700. He purchased £1000 worth of forai tuie in Shepherd's name with his'own money, and had the lease made ont in Shepherd's name also, but the latter stepped iv i<nd seized everything. The witnea c'.-o deposed that he went to ShcpherdV office in 1574, when the Clerk laughingly poiutcd to a chink in the wall, wilncM looked through and saw Mr Shephard and Mrs Dibbs uuder circumstances which h described. Ho went to Mrs Dibbs, lodgings, and introduced himself to the landlady. fc>he asked him who should she say called, witness replied " Say Captiaii t Cook." (laughter.) Ou calliug the SMoni time wituess was shown into M;s. Djbb»& Witness said to Mrs. Dibbs, " You \£i.of I am not Captiau Cook. You know my name. If I scut in my name you would: not havo come to see me. - I•; came to warn you nut to have anything to do with Shepherd." #r& i ibbs turned as white as a sheet, and ran upstairs. Witness saw Mrs.'Dibl)s twice misbehaving herself in Shepherds office. After seeing her the seconajtmo witness spoke privately to Shepherd about it, telling him that it wasasenoM matter. If his (Shepherd's) clients knew it they would not come near him, WitnesJ shewed Shepherd the crack in the partition. Shepherd replied " I don't care a-—for anybody. I tin a single man, andwll« what I like. What do I care for nvj clients or anybody else. ~ Mar tha Fanning wheu asked by defendano counsel to poiut out Mr Shephaid did so, and then stepped cut of the box, andanadrt great laughter laid her baud on him. oM deposed that while living "under the pro tection of a gentleman" she had* seen Shephard come to Mrs Millar's assignation house with Mrs Dibba. The case wSs pro ceediug when the mail steamer left onus 26th. :,i» "

PARLIAMENTARY SCENE.

The Mlowiug lively scene took placeinthe N.S.W. Legislative Assembly on FebruMf 18th :—Mr. McElhonc having spoken, Mf. Buchanan, in reply, said it was uot flis inteiuioa to take any notice of the mma that constantly ar^e fioin Hal dungneap in humau shape, the member for the upper Huutcr. (Seusatiou.) At : Mr. Speaker said tlie lion, member must must withdraw the expression he had usea, and apologise to the House, or leave tae Chamber. ~ , Mr. Buchanan, rising, said if the ion. member—{chair!) attacked him-ictt"' > ClSir Henry Parkes said he was sure the hon. tuemter must see that so long astney had a, gentleman in the chair, the !><■& member must respect the chair. (CUccrs, and au exclamation from Mr. Bucbanw. The hon. mcmler could not possibly respect the ruliug of the chair unless ho were pre pared to take the sense of the House. ; . Mr. Buchanan said if he was attacKea bjt an hon. member hero-(chair !) , Mr. Speaker said the hon. member £«» withdraw the expression used, and apowj,l" to the House. (Cheers.) . in <-.' Mr. Buchanan dcs:wd the Speaker to ■ state the question before the House. > LjaM Mr. Speaker put the question- •f v*u* , this House do now adjourn. . _ Mr. Buchanan rose to speak m reply. ... Mr. Speaker said the hon. member m , withdraw the expresaion he had used. Mr. Buchanan: I have withdrairtt M» : expression. i,.;<.nn. i Mr. Speaker; Will the hon. member con tinue to insult the Speaker? > . Mr. Buchanan: If the Speaker tf » - tender-(Cries of chair! chair 0-iJ"' draw and apologise; I said so to the aw Mr. Speaker: The hon. mem bsr did no* ""Mr?" Buchanan : I did-rChair !]--and 2 lam attacked by any hon. member ne j rely upon it he will have myJnuft w And hilt inhim. (Sensation and a laugn. •" ~ if any hon. member attacks me.and .v checked, how can it be right tnat iw be checked when I retaliate. mft!H bef ' Mr. Speaker trusted the hon. »»»£ was not going to repeat Insown*. House knew what had occurred, ana u-^ pealed to the House. (Chee. ra;LfeW attacked the hon. member as he haa « ■ , voured to attack the Uon, member i<». Upper Hunter. —^r .

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, THURSDAY, MARCH 4, 1380.



[ESTABLISHED A.D. 1853.1 \\T ILL [A M "OATTEAY, DfiAPEE, GI QTBIKK, SILK MERCER, AND MERCHANT TAIL 01!, (iC, QUEKN-STBEKT, AUCKLAND, ITua Just Hocsived a LAU G E A S SORTMKNT OF CALICOS, LIKENS, TABLE DAMASKS, UAMASK TABLE CLOTHS AND NAPKINS, HUCKABACK & TUBKISH TOWELS, COUNTERPANES, AXD OTHER TT1 UUNId! i IN Ci |> KUUJSITES, Which were bnuylit during the recent depression iv English Trade, ami will beofl'cred at proportionately L 0 VS PBIC ES. Note the Address— 66, QfTKEN-STJUEET, AUCKLAND (Opposite the Bunt of New Zealand).



Special Advertisements. /^ ARLICK & nKANWELL HAVE JUST COMPLETED STOCK-TAKING. WK HAVE A LUIUBW LOT OF RKVINANTd. We Shall Hold a WEEKLY SALE OF REMNANTS. FIRST SAL'S OX FRIDAY NEXT. FHIDAY in Each. Week will bo Especial/ Set Apart for Sale of RBMKANT3 of all l'inds. CO-OPERATIVE PRICES FOR CASH ONLY. REMNANTS of Dress Mitorial KKMNANTS „ Pompadour Material REMNANTS „ Prints REMNANTS „ Flannel UKMNANTS „ Calico REMNANTS „ Shooting HEMNANTS „ Ribbon RICMNANTS „ Carpets REMNANTS ~ Floorcloth REMNANTS „ Ffk REMNANTS „ Lustres REMNANTS „ Shirting REMNANTS ~ Tweed REMNANTS „ Hollind REMNANTS „ Damask REMNANTS „ Cretonne ftKMNANTS „ Window Hollands REMNANTS „ Serges ALL AT GREATLY REDUCED PaiCttS FOR CASH AT TIME OF PUROHASK. Call Early on- FRIDAY. GAR LI C X & CRANW EL L, City ll.\ll Aecade. U X /^ RE A T (J ALE OF MEN'S AND BOYS' CLOTHING, HATS, CAPS, AND SHIRTS, COMMENCJKJS IHI.S EVEN.INP. All tbo Now Shipments recently received will be Bold at SALE T> KICKS. AL X JL KIC XS. J. COSGEATE & CC. •~in U 1 S L I X U M. 100 DOZEN 2-BUTTON KID C|L OV E S (Quite sound), Only Is lid per pair. A Largo Stock of FANCY GOODS, MILLINERY, COSTUMES, PINAFORES, DRESS GOODS, &0., &c. To bo Sold at Nett'Cash, for a Short Timo only, DttKSSMAKING ON THE rKEMISES, Costumes made in 21 hours' notice. A. LINA BU R V & CO., 204 and 200, QUKKN-STREKT. MILNE & fIHOYCE Have now on view a Complete Assortment of this moat beautiful S-PUIN'G GOODS of every description, from tho ho:t Homo markets. MILUNKRY, in Paris nnd Kngllsh STUA.W GOODS, FLOWERS, FICATHERS VISITK.S end MANTLES, in ailk and Cash mere JACKETS, in Coloured Summer Cloth OLIVI&S, in Cashmere, Silk, &<\ CHILDREN'S HOSE, in Cotton, Lisle, and Silk PAKASOLS, UMBRELLAS, EIBBONS KID GLOVHS-Black, White, and Coloured; 1, 2, i, nnd 6 bntton UNDRESSED KID GLOVES, 2 and i button. An Immense Stock of DKK3S GOODS, in all the newest and most fashionable styles and textures; all marked exceedingly modcato. BABY Ll'-'EN, CIIILDUKN'S and LADIKB' UNDERCLOTHING, in great variety. BOYS' KNICKERBOCKERS, HOSIERY, HATS, COLLARS, ETC. A Complete Assortmont ot Calicos, Flannels, Linens, &c. DHES3 AND MANTLE-MAKING ON TUB! PREMISES. Five per Cent. Discount allowed for Cash. MILNE &' C H OY C E, CiiEAPSiDii: House. ;M It E A T uAKGAINS VJt' R E A 'i' -O A R G A I N S GREAT BARGAINS I GREAT BARGAINS! GEE AT BARGAINS! JUST OPKNKD, A SPLENDID LINE Ol' jyjEN'3 rjiWEED qUITS, AT 27 s 6 D> W ORTH io3. ONE OASK j^JEN'.S JTLAX gHIRTS, With Collars, AT 4s 6D WOHTB C 3 6d. ONE BALE 'yyHITE gUPER. J^LANKETS, W OUT II 208. InsDection specially invited tc OUR OWN MAKE o*' BOYS' PLAITED TUNIC SUITS, From 235. SST Note the Addrkss— J. B. ROBINSON, A UCKL iND ri NOTHING "pACTORY, NKXT MESSRS TONICS & CO.'d AUCTION MART. A FEW GOOD REASONS Fon MAKING YOUR PURCHASES AT T1£!B ■jVrICW yK ALAND pLQTHING T,:iACTORY. Tho MatoJatoaromannfactureclJ.n New Zoaland. The Garments are madeinNew Zealand. The Money is expended in NewZcaland. The Stock to gcla 't from is tt>o largest in Now Zealand. The Cut and Trimiriingß_are equal to bespoke. The Prices, considering tho quality and finish, nro lower than those of any therhousoin New gjcalaiid.^ And notwitlmtanding the extra tarilFjust imposed in New Zealand, there is "^ NO_ ADVANGJC_ I_ WJPKj_£gß^ You can stilt purchase A SINGLE GARMENT AT THE WHOLESALE PRICE FliOM TIIK .New .Z-saland Clothing h ACTORY. Auckland Retail Hkanch: QUEEN-STR»EKT, « Opposite Tljeatto Koyß],



Special Adveitfamentß. jT\ N SALE, Kcarsloy's Combiced Keapers and Mower Mangold and Turnip Drills Turnip Sl'oora Oilcake Breakers Winnowing Machinoa Lawn Mowers. Also, TO ARRIVE, PER 'INGLEWOOD,' Coulter's Corn, Mangold, Turnip, and Manure Drills, combined And Ploughs, double and£olnglo Harrowa Hollers &C. &C. CSC Tho'abovo goods arc imported directed rom the manafacturers, and will be sold cheap tD make room for further shipments. W. J. HURST & CO., 191. Queen-street.



The gonins of discovery is fo aspiring In it-i ambition that it never stopi short of oomp'Ot© triumph. Its conquests are certuin, ih victories consummate. Tne crown it wears is wrwtca from patient labemr, and wrought of tho tireless ellorts of energy and research. The uohievc inent that (javo to tJio world L'dolpho VVoltes Schtedam Aromatio Schnapps will livo in the history of curative scionce as long as tho hiimun frame is subjaot to natural dlseaaea.



TOWJV EDITION. PUBLISMKD AT 1.30