SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER J gJSISgS&B. 3 « SUNgKT.-_s«^ow Morning, 6.57 &oow_?AO*' iaßt Quarter, .Ist, 2.16 a.ro. ARRIVALS. LAST EVENING. Helona, brigantino. Chrlstionaon, from Dunedin Argyle, s.s„ Crawford, from Whangarel DEPARTURE-. YESTERDAY. Klsinoro, sohoonor, Stophons, for Tairua Ocean, schooner, Cookiiold, for Russell lona, b.s., Stephonson, for Russell Fingal, s.b„ Norris, for Morcury Bay TO-DiY. Annio Bow, barquentino, Morgan, for New castle PROJECTED DEPARTURES San Francisco—Australia, P.M. b.s.,for Francisco London—Looh Dee and Peru, early Sydnoy—Arawata, May 17 Melbourne vift south-Rotorua, Thursday 19th. Russell and Northern porta—lona, Monday Whangarei and Mangapai—Argyle, Tuesday and Friday Tauranga-Wellington, Tcoaday and Thursday Mangawai- Fingal, Thursday Meroury Bay—tingal, Saturday

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Zealandia, P.M. as., from San Francisco, Monday, 30th Australia, P.M. s.a., from Sydnoy, Tuesday, May 24 Merope, ship, from London Halcione, ship (J.N.M.S.), from London; to Bail March i Loch Doon, barque (L.H.G.V.), from London; to sail March 2 Avona, barque (W.Q.J.N.', from London; Bailed February 3 Orient, barque (K.C.J.N.), from New York;

sailed February 11 Coronilla, barque (K.8.V.Q.), from London ; sailed Feb. 15 Chili, karque, from London; loading Dtinkeld, barque, from London ; loading Oabarfoidb, barquo (3.Q.M.J.), from Sydney Camille, brig, from New York ; sailed April 2 Thomas and Henry, brig, from Dunedin via Kaipara Vision, brig, from Melbourne, sailed April 19 Orwell, brigantine, from tho Islands Myrtle, brigantino, from Friondly Islands Ethel, brigantino, from Dunedin Ryno, brigaiiline, from Rotumah Flirt, brigantino. from Samoa Darcy Pratt, brigantino, from Timaru Borealis. brigantino, from Lyttelton Annie Wilson, echoonor, from Dunedin Oceola, brigantino, from New York Caledonia,.schooner, from Samoa Mazeppa, schooner, from Barotoisga Agnos Donald, schooner, from R-rotonga Coronet, schooner, from Attutaki Clyde, schooner, from Lyttelton Gaol, schooner, from Lovuka Saxon, schooner, from Lyttelton Torea, schooner, from Lyttolton Winifred, sohooner, frora Now Hobridos Taviuni, sohooner, from Levuka Atotehau, schooner, from Rarotonga Belle Brandon, schooner, from Samoa Norval, sohooner, from Norfolk Island

IMPORTS.

Per Hellena from Dunedin:—l,2oo bags oats, 300 bags flour, 100 bags oatmeal, 75 oasks resin, 10 casos tobacoo, 18 posts, 21 rails, 780 shingle*, 880 palings, 200 laths.

Per Helena, W. Irvine—2oo sacks flour, 40 half Baoks flour, 120 quarter sacks flour.—T. H. Hall and Co.

EXPORTS,

Per Policeman, for Noumea (to be loaded at Hokianga)-_I,OOO feet undressed timber, 12,000 feet sawn timber.

Per Tairoa for Southern ports :—For New Plymouth—3 boxes fish, 5 bags worsted, 1 piano, ■13 packages, 20 sacks guano. For Nelson—6 Baoks worsteds, 10 spools wire, 6 packages. For Plcton—9bundles Backs, 20 spools wire.,l sack, 2 parcels. 135 packages joiuery. For Hokitiki—l package. For Weatport—l parcel- For Wanganui—2 packages. For Wellington —i oases. 12 sacks, 5 bundles iron. For Grey moulh-1 package. For Lyttelton-2 cases, Inwards Coastwise.—Janet, from Sandspit, with 500 bushels lime; Nancy, from Thames, With 16,000 feet sawn timber. Outwards CoASTWisK.-Janet, for Whan garei Heads, with 6000 bricks; Nancy, for Thames. The brigantino Sea Bird cleared at the Customs to-day for Kaipara in ballast. The barque Stag entered at the Customs to day for Sydney, via Kaipara. The schooner Cutty Sark arrived at Thames from Russell with 90 tons coal yesterday fore noon. She comes on to Auckland in ballast. The sohooner Tauranga left Port Chalmers for Auckland on May 16th. Mr W, S. Laurie has recoived a telegram stating that the brigantino Bannockburn, of Auckland, arrived at Titnaru from Newcastle, on May 16, and loads direct for Auokland. The brigantine Lizzie Guy arrived at Thames from Oamaru on the 16th inst., and has loaded 60,000 feet sawn Kahikatea timber at tho Hauraki Mills, with which she proceeds to Oamaru. The brigantine Helena arrived from Dunedin last evening. She left that port on Tuesday, the 3rd instant, with light S.S.W. wind. Variable weather wa< experienced until the sth, when a light N. W. wind Bprung up. On Thursday night took Bhelter under the Hast Cape, and dodged about under its lee for two days. On Saturday morning the wind hauled round to W.S.W., and the voyage was resumed. Cuvier Island wra made at 1 o'clook on Sunday morning, and from thence to port light change able winds. The b.s. Argyle, from Whangaroi and Northern ports last evening, brought the following pass ongers :—Misses Stewart, Oaft'rey, and McKay, Mesdames MoCallongtt and child, MoDonald, and McLean, Messrs Robs, Scott, Lewis, George, Plumley, Reynolds, Jones, Peters, Mr Superin tendent Thompson, and nine steerage. Cargo: 1 portable engine, 132 tacks guao, 10 sacks coal, 6 bundles gum, i boxes poultry. 2 bundles skins, 8 hides, 4 boxes eggs, 5 tons furniture and lug gage, and 12 packages sundrios.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

DEPARTURES. Taiaroa, 8.5., MoGee, for the South.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Russell, this day. Arrived: lona, b.s., from Auckland, at 8 a.m,

ARRIVAL OF THE ROTORUA.

The Rotorua, Captain Tozsr. left Sydney at 5.15 p m. on Thursday, the 12th, reaohing the Three Kings about 8 p.m. on Monday, 16th, and arriving at Russell at 10 a.m. on the 17th. Had line weather during tho passage. Passengers for Auckland: Messrs Brindley, Ashton and daughter, Donald, Rodney. Holdahip, Burke (2). Hudson, Reid, Lawrenc., Paine, Hamilton, Rodney, and 13 steerage. For Napier: Mr Bowes. For Wellington: 1 steerage. For Lyttelton: Messrs Reid and Walker, and 1 steerage. For Dunedin: Mr Murray, M.H. R., Messrs Macgill. Ingliah, and 9 Chinese. For Bluff: Mr Taylor, For Melbourne: Mr An- i drown, Wait ah A, this day. Sailed: Lalla Rookh, for Onehunga, at noon, Wellington, yesterday. Sailed. Rotomahana, for the South; Hawea, for Picton and Nelson. Port Chalmers, yesterday. Sailed: Penguin, s s., for the North. Passen ger for Manukau: Mr Ross. For: Sydney: Mr Graham .gWaitakl, s.B„ for Timaru.

Mail Notice.

Mails will Close as Under.— This Day. For Tauranga. Ohinemutu, and Opotikl, pur Wellington, at i p.m. For Whangarei Heads, Walpu, Whangarel, and Mangapai, per Argyle, at i p.m. Wednesday, 18th instant. For Coromandel, per Coromandol, at 11.30 a.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, and Australian Colonies, per Arawata, at 3 p.m. For Thamei, per Rotomahana, at 1 p.m. For Thames, per .enterprise, at 5,30 p.m. Thursday, 19th instant. Per s.B. Rotorua, as follows :— For India, China, Japan, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 8 a.m. For Glßborne, N»pi*r. Southern ports, Aus tralian Colonies, and United Kingdom, via Su"Z and Brindiai, lor letters speciaUy so pre paid and addressed, at 9 a.m. For newspapers, at 8 a.m. For money orders, and registered lotters, the previous evening at 1 o'clock. For Walwera,. To Kapa, Craigioburn, Eand Warkwortb, per Rose Casoy. at 10 a.m. For Mangawai, per Fingal, at i p.m. For Tauranga, Ohinemutu, and .Opotiki, per Wellington, at i p.m. Tuesday, 21lh instant. Per s.s. Australia, as follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United States ot America. Canada, British Columbia- Contral and South America, and British and Foreign West IndlM, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. Late letters bearing a_ extra feo of sixpence, in addition t. the postage, will bo reoeived by tho Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the time ot sailing. This mall will be due in London on Tuesday, Julyo, 1881, S. B. BIS 3, Chief Postmaster, Chief Post-office. Auckland.

Birth.

FINLAYSON.—At College Road, Ponsonby, on May 11, the wife of Thomas Finlayson, of a son. HUTCHINSON.-On May 17, at her residence, Victoria-street, the wife of Mr. R, Hutohin son, of a daughter.

Death.

McQUlLAN.—Drowned on board the Tararua, Jamos, the eldest Bon of Margaret McQuilan, late of Beach Road, Thames; aged 25 years. MOONEY.-On the 13th April, 1881, at Welling ton, New Zealand, Edith Maud, second daughter of the lat9 Matthew Moonoy, aged 3 years and 3 months.

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

TUESDAY, MAY 17, 1881.

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

TO make room for a full report of Sir George Grey's speech at the Theatre Royal last night, we are compelled to omit leading matter and correspondence, and condense other local reports. Sir George yesterday shewed that he had lost none of his old power of attracting and interesting a vast audience, Coming so soon after his Thames and Cororaandel speeches, many of the matters touched upon have, of course, been very recently discussed. There was one sugges'ion, however, upon which instant action should be taken by the inhabitants of Auckland and its suburbs. We refer to the intention to pass by Auck land in the approaching visit of the Detached Squadron which accompanies H.M. Bacchante with the sons of H.R.H. the Prince of Wales on board. Tho Bacchante, as will be seen by our cable grams, is already in Australian waters, and I there is no time to be lost. Struggling as we are to make the importance and ad vantages of our harbour known to the Naval authorities, it would be a great mis fortune if Wellington should be chosen as the only place of call in New Zealand, and all classes ought to unite heartily in making an immediate and very strong representa tion to the Governor on this subject. After the denial given to a similar request from Adelaide, it is of course possible that our petition would be refused, but the very fact of sending it would do something towards making amends for the Blight, by bringing Auckland prominently under the notice o£ the Home authorities, and reminding them that Wellington is, after all, only one of the second-rato ports of New Zealand.

Mr Supeiintcndent Thompson returned from Whangarei by tho s.s. Argyle last evening. Be has been occupied since Friday last with duties pertaining to his de parment in that district.

Another, and we trust the last of the dreadful Tararua roll has come to light. Iv the list of the crew given at the in quiry by Mr Mills, Manager of the Union S.S. Company, one was mentioned as " un known." It has now been found that James McQuinlan, the son of a widow residing in Symonds-street, Auckland,shipped as a fore man ou the Tararua at Port Chalmers, and his name would not, of course, appear on the list in possesaion of the company. The news of the death of ber son and support was conveyed to the bereaved mother last night, by one of the former fellow workmen of the deceased. She was overwhelmed by the intelligence and is now in great distress, her ton having maintained her for a long time past. This poor widow has undoubtedly a large claim on the funds that have been contributed for sufferers, and we hope her case will receive instant attention. Subscriptions on her special behalf will also be received at this office. J

The next concert of the Choral Society being fixed for Tuesday, 31st, performing members are particularly requested to attend the remaining rehearsals.

The contractois for the Auckland Masonic Hall arc rapidly proceeding with their work, and when completed the new hall will add to the architectural beauties of Princes street, and be seen from the principal p_rt of the city.

Mr Arthur Eady has been engaged as conductor of the orchestra al the Theatre Royal during Herr Baudmann's Shakes pcrian season.

The Poit Albert Agricultural Society held its monthly mcctiug at Mr G. Plum mer's (for Mr Muwct) on Wednesday. There wctc twenty members present. On Friday the Band of Hope met in the school room. Messrs Plummer and B. M. Gubb, president and secretary, did their best to instruct and cutcrtain the juvenile mem bers.

At the last meeting of the Total Absti nence Society, held iv Albert-street, tho following resolution was passed : " That this meeting, fully appreciating the labours of the Rev. T. W. Dunn in the cause oi Temperance iloforni, regrets his removal from Auckland, but trusts that iv his new district, his advocacy and support ot tem perance principles will be of great benefit to all those among whom it will be his lot to labour,

The Jockey Club Committee last night agreed to ofl'er the Forbury Park Company £1000 a-year for ton years lease of the pre sent course. The Club have two other courses under offer. They also considered the case of J. Harding, who entered Mies Domett tor the Fcbinury meeting, forward ing a cheque for the fees. The cheque was dishonoured, and has not since been paid, The committee passed a resolution, in accordance with rule 37 of tho club, and rule 29 of the English Jockey Club, declar ing Harding a defaulter until the cheque was paid.

Iv reply to tho letter of "St. Andrew" in our issue of the 12th instaut, wc are re quested by Mr Stevenson, a member of St. David's committee, to state the circum stances undor which tho Rev Mr Frasor came up to preach as a candidate fur the vacant pastorate. Tho Presbytery had ap pointed the Rev Mr Carrick Moderator of the vacant church, and a telegram was sont to him in that capacity by Mr Eraser, ask ing if ho could have a hearing. This was laid before the committco of St. David's Church, and MrCarrick being absent in the Waikato, the Rev Mr Bruce was requested to com municatu with Mr Eraser, informing him that the congregation were willing to accede to his request. Mr Kntser's candidature, therefore, was entirely at his own sug gestion, and on the motion of St David's committee. Ho is expected to-morrow morning in the Arawata. Another Mr Eraser, from Waipukcrau (Hawkcs Bay) is also coming up iv about teu days to preach to the congregation.

The funeral of tho lato Miss Sarah Hen derson took place yesterday. Tho attend ance at tho burial was largo, about DO of the young persons from the Pitt-street school following—showing iv what respect the de cea_cd was held. Tho siugiug was sweet and appropriate. The Itcv. 11. R. Dews bury road tho usual service.

Mr J. C. Williams, ot the Piocviuial Hotel, Thames, sustained a painful acci dent whilst pigeon shooting in the kahi katea forest ou Saturday afternoon. lie was rushing after a bird he had shot, when he steppedou a sharp stick, which rau through his boot, and inflicted a small wound on his foot which has become highly inflamed, it is supposed from blood-poisoning.— "Advertiser."

An interesting flutter has been created in Wcsleyatt Methodist circles by;the young minister at Parnell. Among the statutes of the church is one which virtually pro hibits marriage till after four years proba tion. Now this enaotmoiit has boen boldly set aside by tho Rev. L. M. Isitt. Mr Isitt has only passod his second year aud entered his third, yet last week the rev. gentleman quietly sailed for New Plymouth, aud by yesterday's steamer brought back a happy bride. Tho lady is well connected nt Taranaki, and is tho only daughter of Mr Caverhill. It is expected that the matter will be brought before tht District Meeting aud Conference, but it i 3 whispered that, if so, the grave censors will be reminded that other laws are and the brethien held guiltless. Smokiiig is ludulged iv by not a few, and they still maintain their posts. It is confidently stated that the precedent will encourage other young aspirants, aud that during the next few mouths quite an army of young parsons will dare the unnatural church laws, and gratify their heart's longings after connubial felicity.

At a meeting of tlio Pumping Association directors to-day, the question was raised whether it would be advisable to knock oil' pumping at the 400 ft. level, as there is no material work going on deeper than 300 ft. It was agreed, however, to git from the engineer estimates of the relative cost of pumping from the two levels. It is, how ever, we undeistand, the opinion of that geutlcu.au that there would be no material difference, in which case, of course, the pumping will be continued at the 400 ft. Tho mines likely to be affected by a re duced depth of drainage would be tho Cale donian and Kuranui Hill, a run of gold having recently beendiscovered iv the 36'0ft. level of the Caledonian, From the discussion of the meeting, there is very little doubt that tho pumDing will be permanently con tinued at the 400 ft. The Thames local bodies insisted that prospecting should go on (simultaneously. Otherwise their con tributions are expended uselessly.

We are very sorry to learn that Mrs Hedley, the wife of the carpenter who was killed by a fall trom a building in Sytnonds street last woek, has been leit in destitute circumstances. She has five small children, the eldest not ton yenrs old, and has no means whatever ot subsutence. The little property which the deceased had is so heavily mortgaged as to be useless to his family. An effort is, therefore, being made to raise enough money to place the widow iv Eomo small way of business by which she may De enabled to support herself and family. A subscription list has been left at our office, and we have very great plea sure in commending its object to public at tention. The aid given to a deserving widow and five helpless fatherless children will doubtless bo blessed to those who find it in their hearts to sympathise with tli. sorrows of human beings less fortunate than themselves.

A choice and beautifully finished lady's ecritoire, designed by Messrs A. Seuffert and Son, of Elliott-street, appears in the shop-window of Mr Dennes, of Queen-stroet, and is well worthy of minute inspec tion as a triumph of artistic workmanship. This exquisite piece of furniture was designed by Mr Seuffert, sen,, and the outside decorations were made by Mr Teutenborg. It has a writing desk attached which can bo drawn out and replaced by the lady, inner drawers for ink, pens, &c, also a rest in front of the sitter, the back part of which resembles a Grecian temple, with handsome pillars and a mirror. The work is of inlaid woods of Now Zealand growth, fanciful and poetical, with imita tions of ferns, trees, fruits, and illustrations of natives and their social habits and dwellings. The tattooed head of a native chief is life-like, also the forms ot native birds, including the moa aud the kiwi, with Maori store-houses, canoos, and waterfalls. This really beautiful work of art reflects great credit on Mr Seuffert and his son, and was made to order for a gentleman in London, who had seen a lesser production of a similar character by the same hands.

Major Harris addressed the electors last evening in the Maungatawhiri school, about 25 being present. Mr Shackell was voted to the chair, and Major Harris commenced by apologising for the absence of his colleague, Mr Hamlin, who sent a telegram to say that he was ill. He then proceeded to give an account of his -stewardship whilst fighting the country's battles down at Wellington, and after a patient hearing concluded by telling the electors he was prepared to answer any questions, Many questions were asked, and then Mr Powell proposed a vote of confi dence and thanks, and Mr Melville pro posed an amendment of no confidence, simply remarking that he had never heard : such a lot of "twaddle." This was secon ded by Mr Graham, and the Chairman then remarked that the original motion bad not been seconded, and Mr Pope then Bcconded it. The vote of no confidence only had two hands in favour of it, and the confidence motion had five held up, and was therefore carried. 'I he majority ol the electors ab stained from expressing their opinions by a t vote either way. After a vote of thanks to ; the Chairman the meeting dispersed. j

HARBOUR BOARD.

The ordinary meeting of the Harbour Board, was held this afternoon. Present :— Messrs Compton (in the chair), T. Morrin, Waddel, Aieken, E, Isaacs, McKenzie, Stone, Boylan, Mays, and Daldy, also, His Worship the Mayor.

Code List, 1881—Letter from Secretary of Marine Department, Wellington, re Code List, 1881.-.Received.

Auckland Regatta Club.—A letter was received from the Auckland Regatta Club, ex officio, informing the Chairman that he had been unanimously elected Vice- President of the Club.

TELEGRAMS.

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT).

HAMILTON, this day. A SETTLER ON ACCLIMATISATION. Mr John Douglas, of Tamahere, writes a long letter to the " Waikato Times" on the game and acclimatisation question in Wai katOjSeverely censuring the Acclimatisation Society's mamigctneut throughout all its departments. NAPIER, this day. WATER SUPPLY SCHEME". The Borough Council in committee laßt night adopted a scheme for extending the water supply to the hill portions of the town. The estimated cost is £10,000. SUITS AGAINST THE UNION COMPANY. Acting on the decision re the Boojum collision case, tho Insurance Companies will pay claims of cousitmecs and then buc the Union Company for recovery. . Iv transhipping Herrßandniann's luggage from lighter to Arawata the tackle broke, dropping three boxes containing theatrical wardrobe iuto the sea. The boxes were re covered, but Mr Baudmann estimated the damage to the dresses at £300, and holds the Union Company responsible, ACCLIMATIZATION OF JAPANESE PRODUCE. The Acclimatization Society received an invoice from Japan, of fifty giant chestnut trees, a thousand pcrsinimous, and twenty- Hovcn varieties of bamboo. The shipment left Japan on March last, [per press AGENCY.] WELLINGTON, this doy. THE DIVORCE CASE. Iv the Divorce Comt to-day iv the case of Weston v. Weston (Christchurch) a rule , nisi was granted. TIMARU, Monday. 'Die following are tho acceptances for tho New Zealand Grand National Steeplechase Meeting :—Maiden Plate : Marvel, Sailor Hoy, Quamby, Kosciusko, and Stella. New Zealand Grand National Handicap Steculo chuse : Clarence, Sailor Boy, Shark, VViui liold, Mousetrap, Agent, aud Blush Rose. Hunt Club Cup; Clarence, (Jtiumby, and Agent.

SCINTILLATIONS.

•' Ho brlot; lor it is with words as with Bun beams: tho mora they uro condensed the deeper they burn,"—Soutiiev.

A designing fellow.—An architect. Diptheria is prevalent at Ross, Wost land.

Mr FaireloUgh, the tragedian, has re ceived an insolvent certificate iv Victoria.

The Dunedin railway workshops,"being idle through tho removal of the stall' to Christchurch, arc to be leased.

A couipauy with £15,000 capital is being formed in Dunedin to work a coppor mine at Waitahua,

" How did you lind your uncle, Jdlluny V "In apple-pie ordor." "How's that?'1 "Crusty.''

Telephone communication has been established between Port Chalmers und Otago Heads.

A counter-irritant —Tho woman who i~ for ever shopping: and never liudiug any thing she wunta.

Several judgments against Property Tax defaulters were obtitiuod in New Plymouth yesterday. :

It is stated that the losses sustained by the insurance companies since tho beginning of this year by fires iv Auckland alone amount to £26,000.

Mr Johu Robertson, a ccutcuarian, born iv Dundee, Scotland, iv 1779, died in Sydney a fortnight ago, after having passed through a life of geueral good health. The insurance companies intend, it is s~id, to sue tho Union Shipping Company for loss of cargo through the cellisiou bo tweeu 13oojum aud SirDonuld, steamers, at Napier. The City Council will fix the levels of Moore street, on the 16' th Juno. Objections must be sent in iv writing, ten days before.

Au old South Australian, named McDonald, has presented the Adelaide Fine Arts Gallery with 112 large photos of New Zealaud scenery.

A darkey who was stooping to wash liis hand iv a creek did not notice the peculiar actions of a goat just behind him ; so, when he scrambled out of the water, and was asked how it happened, he answerd " I dunuo 'zactly. but 'poaml as if do shoro Kludur lflsted and trowed me."

Throe boxes of wardrobe belonging to IL-rr liaudiuauu fell into the water when being shipped aboard the Arawata at Napior yesterday, through the tackle breaking. Mr B-udmann values thorn at £SOO, and says they have sustained £300 damage, for which lie will sue the Union Company,

The "Age" cablegram states that Bradl.Ughis supported by his constituents in claiming to take the oath, Public meetings arc being held in his favour. The Duke of Richmond will be tho new Conservative leader in tho ilouso ot Lords. A case comes on shortly at the Colac police court, Victoria, in which a girl, aged 17 years, was recently, coulincd, aud she was attended only by a strange girl, and immediately afterwards the inhuman mother of the conliued girl turned hordaughter and newly-born child, wrapped only in a piece of blanket, out of doors.

THE TARARUA DISASTER.

The Recover!/ of ---_ Bodies.

__V TELEGRAPH.-PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

DUNEDIN, Monday. The volunteers from Invercargill who went to Waipapa to aid in the recovery of tho dead bodies from the s.s. Tararua give a graphic account of the hardships of the work. The policemen had to sleep in wet clothes for days, and to rim about in bags while their, clothes were drying. The odour from the dead bodies sweltering in the sun was perceptible a quarter of a milo off. They also make serious complaints against Mr Stewart, the representative of the Union Company at the wreck, on account of his stinginess, and general dis position to make things uncomfortable all round. THE VERDICT. ■ Judgmout in re tho Tararua will not be given for two or three days, | Captain Cameron iv his evidenco to-day, stated that the boats on board were insuffi cient to hold all tlfo people.'

A DISAPPOINTED BRIDAL PARTY.

It was reported during last week that the Roy Mr Haselden, of St Luke's, was coming to Helensville to perform the first marriage ceremony in our little church, on Sunday ihoming, at 10 a.m., consequently a num ber of people assembled to witness the ceremony. Before the hour the bridegroom was patrolling tho hill above the church iv a itate of anxiety, casting furtive glauces at a certain little cottage on tho banks of the Kaipara river. He did not watch in vain, as true to time the bride, ac companied by her bridesmaids, best man (who is about to undergo the trying ordeal himself) and her father emerged from the front door and walked up to the chinch, All seemed ready, aud in a state of expectation. Every countenance wore a smile, and ovory heart boat light, when tho parsou culled the groom aside. They held a short consultation, aud examined certain documents; then both walked out of tho church and down to the court-house together. Their stay away seemed long, and as minute chased minute away tho hearti of some, particularly the best man, seemed to misgive them. After tho lapse of some twenty minutes, the parson and groom returned, the formor with a blank form iv his hand, and the latter with a very blank countenance.

After they recovered from the shook of the disappointment themselves, they shocked the company by informing them that no marriage could take place that day, os the Deputy-Kagi-trar (who ha* departed this place for Whangarei a week ago, and a good job for him), had not filled up the right form; the poor ladies looked cross, and I would not like to be that Deputy- Registra if they should meet him within the next week—however they put as gooa a face on as possible and walked away borne, there to wait patiently until tho mistake could be remedied.—Cokres- i I'ONDENT.

I A special meeting of the Auckland United Hrioklayers' Society will be held tn-morrow I evening in the business-room of tho Working : Men's Club. j Messrs B. Tonks and Co will offer to-morrow at their auction mart tho privileges ot the Papa- j I kura races—bars, booths, gates, &o.; and on I I Thursday, 82 superior paintings in oil, by artists ol! acknowledged merit, including some of the choleeßt river, lako, and state Bconery of I America—of which catalogues may be had on 1 ' application to the auctioneers. -W^t

THE REEFTON MURDER.

An Extraordinary Story.

(BY TELEGRAPH. PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

HOKITIKA, Monday,

Mrs. McGahey, wife of the man who now lies in Hokitika gaol charged with the murder of Mr Bell, arrived in town by the coach from Christchurch on Saturday last, aud soon after arrival she went to the police station, and confessed to Sergeant Mocller that she had wilfully set fire to her husband's home at Larry's Creek, in the month of December last. It appears from her story that funds were subscribed to enable her to leave Beefton, and that she went to Westport, and from that port took ship for Lyttelton. She ob tained an engagement as servant to a family in Amberley. She was, how ever, constantly disturbed by the appari tions of her husband and the murdered man Bell. Those ghastly visitors urged upon her to make atonement, and as Ehe could not bear the continued reproach, she deter mined to come back to the Coast by the lirst opportunity to deliver herself up to justice. Sergeant Moeller arrested her upon a charge of arson. Sho also informed {■ ergeant Moeller that she asked the spirit of the murdered man whether she would take her own life, but was advised to come over here, and confess what she had done. Her statement was minute, and she said she iiad walked 13 miles in order to burn down her house, which she resolved should never become tho property of the mortgagee after all her hard work to make a home for her self. It is clear that tho unfortunate crea ture's brain must be temporarily affectod by the shocking events with which her name is connected. Sho was brought up at the K.M. Court this morning on a charge of arson, and remanded on the application of the Inspector of Police for 8 days, to under go medical trcatmont, the accused boing in a very weak state of health.

SUNDAY-SCHOOL UNION.

The annual meeting of tho Auckland branch of the Sunday-school Union was held in tho V.M.C.A. Rooms last ovenitig, Mr J. C, Firth presided.

Mr Thos. Buddie road tho lflth annual report and balunce-ahect. The report set forth that tho committee havc|to express their thanks to Almighty God tor the mea sure of prosperity - both as regards finance and usefulues.-duriug tho past year. The additions to their numbor had been : Four Undenominational, throe Episcopalian, two Wesleyan, ouo Methodist, one Primitive Methodist, one Christian Brethren, one Presbyterian, one Congregational: Total, 14. Three schools had lapsed during the year, and four had withdrawn, leaving tho total number of schools in membership 128. The report then went ou to refer to the forming of _ branchUniou at Wanganui, the increase iv sales oi periodicals, and other books,and went ou to speak of theCentcnary celebration. After payment of all expenses ihe committco voted £35 to the Union us its share of the profits. This nmouut had been formed into a benevolent fund accouut, lor the incrcr.se of which they appealed to_ the benevolent to subscribe. The committee had made application to the ministers of six central churches in the city to allow the Union Sprayer mooting to be incorporated with the church woek-night Borvice and prayer meeting, and hoped they would be better attended than hitherto.

Tho Chairman in his opening remarks compared some of the items on this ycni's with last yeur's balance sheet. For instance he suid, :—The cash sales last year amount ed to £710, this, £952; receipts from school last year, £748, this, £1056. Thero was a stranger this year iv the account in the shupe of a subscription for £45 18s 6d. This was a new reef that had been struck aud might be well worth following. The ' liabilities last year were £844, this £1213 ; the assets £2392 as against £1613 last year. This he regarded as an ad. dition of capital — which was really an increase of power — to the extent iof £400 The accounts were cer tainly very llattoring, for after a year's labour they were better able to proceed with their work than ever before. He specially noticed the large aud increased circulation of ni-gaziuts by the Union, which this year had increased to 6000 copies, uud these he recognized as a great power for good. Tho good done by the dis tribution of theee periodicals could be but faintly appreciated, for they carried to many homes the truths of Christianity, aud helped to Bpread the Gospel. Ho con gratulated the Union on the progress made ia religious books and pictorial illustrations, which were to children what the newspaper was to older persotn. Impressious so created wero almost indelible, and re mained when incidents happoning in after years were forgotten. He then referred to tho tendency to infidelity in some publications, and the absence of religious teaching in our public day schools. He thought there was nothing to till us with fear or apprehension in all this, for if the Sunday school worked with vicour aud energy they had the moulding of the child's nature, and as it had been said, " Giro me the teaching of children, and I do not care who preaches to them afterwards." This was a progressive age, and they should not keep the children tied down to tho practices of thoir forefather.. Thero was a remarkable increase of intelli gence noticeable—a wonderful power of analysis—iv tho present Generation, and he thought it should not be checked, but rather encouraged. Tho speaker thon went on to make several suggestions with regard to making the Sunday school as pleasant a place as it ought to be, and suggested among othcrthings thepresencc of flowers andferna, oa rendering the atmosphere sweet and plea sant, and reminding the children of the beautiful works of God in nature. He also recommended that a littlo more time should bo devoted to short addresses by teachers than at present, and was sure that if "properly, prayerfully, and vigorously worked -if moro intelligence and intellect were brought to bear—great results—greater spiritual results—would follow, and the Sabbath-school would take its place in the van guard, aud prove more useful even than it had been in the past.

Tho Rev R. F. Macnicol next addressed the meeting, on "What can tho Sunday school do for the Church ?" He looked upon the church and Suuday-school as closely identified, as part and parcel of ono organiza tion. If a new church were in course of erection, they would cheerfully contribute towardt the cost; if they do sired a pastor they would have one after their own mind; but when the Sunday school required attention, it was looked upon as the duty of the teachers solely. This, he thought, ought not to be. Since the secular system of education had been established, he felt it incumbent upon the Church to secure a Christian training for the young. There were three ways in which the Sunday school could help the Church :—First, as it special agency for training the young ; second, as a mission ary agency; and, third, as affording a wide field of activity for Church members. Wore attention paid to the young, the Church would flourish and extend in power aud spiritual vigour ai time rolled on. He thought that children should be encouraged to come out of tho Sunday-school into full church connection, and he would nevor debar a child from taking a seat at the coraronnion table, did he or she exhibit a tendency that way ; ho would bo glad to se'd them coming to the table of the Lord, even before they had reached their " teens " Theu tho Sabbath-school helped the church considerably as a misson agency. He know of many instances were children deprived themselves of their lollies and toys in order to devoto their pence to missionary Work. In this way the children acted as a missionary agency ol the Church, and they were an agency which might well bo utilised. As every Christian man and woman should be active, he recommended the Sunday school as a suitable field for operations. It any were inclined rather to take a walk of a Sunday afternoon rather than attend the school, let them .do some little good at the same time by bringing in the wayfarers In conclusion, he hoped the members of congregations-would, as a Church, do all in their power for the Sabbath-school, and in time they would see what the Sabbath school could do for the Church.

The Rev. James Guy then gave a short address on the "Religious Training of Childhood," arguing that there could be such a thing, and pointing out its good influencts/its results in afterlife, and how, when developed, it was marked by a strong practicality.

Mr D. Goldie also spoko on the subject of Sunday-school teaching, and made several recommendations for the carrying on of the work.

During the evening St. James' Church I choir, under the leadership of Mrs Mitchell (Mr W. J. Bees presiding at the harmonium) sang several suitable musical pelcctions, and their efforts materially assisted in enliven ing and rendering more interesting the pro ceedings. After votes of thanks had been passed to the Chairman and the choir fore their services, the meeting closed with tb benediction pronounced by the Rev R, ™. Macuicol.

CABLEGRAMS.

[REU-ER's Telegrams.] A NEW ITALIAN MINISTRY. ' ROME, May IG. The resignation of tfce Liberal mcmbsrs of the Italian Ministry has been accepted by King Humbert, and Signor Sella has been charged with the formation of a new administration. THE BEY SAYS HE WAS COERCED, LONDON, May 16. The Bey of Tunis has made a communica tion to the Powers, in which he protests that his consent to the treaty which has been concluded with Franco was cxtotted trom him by the French commander. THE SULTAN SAYS THE BEY COULD NOT CONCLUDE THE TREATY. CONSTANTINOPLE, May 16. The Porte has addressed the French Government on the subject of the treaty which has been eotercd into with the Bey of Tunis. The communication denies that the Bey was competent to conclude such a treaty without the consent of the Sultan.

AUSTRALIAN.

ARRIVAL OF THE PRINCE OF

WALES' SONS,

I-I.M.S. BACCHANTE IN A STOR VI.

ALBANY, May 16.

11.M.5. Bacchante, with the Princes Albert Victor and George of Wales on board arrived in King George's Souud to-day, with her rudder disabled. She parted com pany with the detached squadron on Thurs day last tho 12th instant. The following information bus been supplied by tho oflicers of the Bacchante :— After leaving the Cape the detached squad ron met with favourable weather until Wednesday last tho 11th instant., when the wind ficsheucd and increased to a heavy gale. During the night of Wednesday or Thursday morning, a heavy sea struck tho Bacchante carrying away ono of tho lite-boats, and ut midday another sea broke aboard disabling the steering gear. A jury rudder was rigged, and the Bacchante made King George's Sound to repair damages. Sho leaves as soon as possible for Cape Otway, where tho squadron will rendezvous on tho 19th instant. THE ROYAL PKINCKS. The Royal Princes arc in good health. No casualties occurred on boird the Bacchante during the storm which she expe rienced on the 11th and 12th instant. THE VICTORIAN REFORM BILL. MELBOURNE, Tuosday. It has transpired that at a Cabinet Council held yesterday it was decided to accept the Reform Bill as returned by the Legislative Council, subject to tho £20 rating qualification for occupiers, and some other inoditicationß being adopted. The Hon. Graham Berry made a speech last night' in which, in referring to the decision of the Cabinet, he said that the acceptance of the Legislative Council's amendments would not, he feared, bring about a liaal settlement of the Reform question. EXHIBITION MEDALS. MELBOURNE, May 16. The followiug awards of medals have been made to Auckland exhibitors by the Exhibition judges :—Gold medal: Hoki anga Saw-mill Co., kauri timber. Bronze medals : R. H. Bartlett, Auckland, photos; Captain 11. Bush, Thames, kauri gum; E. Mitchclson, Dorgaville, kauri gum ; Mrs lizard, Thames, water colours of llowers; Peter Birley, Auckland, iron work. _____________________________

THE CENSUS.

(BY TK_.l_-ItAPll.ri.-SS ASSOCIATION.)

WELLINGTON, this day. The following approximate comparative returns of population, for the electoral districts mentioned, have been received : — Bkuck-1881, 5897 ; 1878, 5385. CLUTHA-1881, 4561 ; 187S, 4216. TUAI'EKA—IBBI, 5842 ; 1874, 5299. Wal-_ai~—lßßl, 6991; 1878, 4-192. TiMARU-1881, 9869 ; 1878, 7222. GLADSTONE-1881, 7499 ; 1878, 6456. GKR-LDINE-ISSI, 4429; 1878, 3823.

Population of Poverty Bay.

GISBOKNE, thisdoy

Tho census returns show the total Euro pean and Maori population of Cook County to be 7,654. The Maori population exceeds the European by 610. The total population of the borough of Gisboruc is 1,000.

POLICE COURT.-This day.

(Before Messrs Cosgrnvc and Isaacs, Justices.) v.. UrS AND DOWNS OF LIFE. Jobu Wilkinson, Hannah Plase, and Pat rick Macfarlanc, were fined 5s each for drunkenness. Richard Moore was fiucd 10s being his Becond ofleuce. MUFFI- AND UIFFEE. Thomas Brister was charged with a breach of tho Auckland Police Act, of 18.6, by t wilful exposuro iv Queen-street, ou the 21st ult. Defendant pleaded guilty under certaiu circumstances. He kept the street coffee stall ; it was midnight, and he could not safely leave his establishment to go to a distance. Constable McConnell said defendaut was under the influence of drink-not coflee— and when spoken to, said ho did not care for the " bobby." MrPardy.said the hour was half-past ten, but as this was Mr Brister's first offence be was not disposed to ask for serious pun ishment. The Bench cautioned defendant, and on his promising not to repeat the offence, dis missed the case. This was all tho business

THE ALLEGED CRUELTY AT WHATAWHATA.

The re-arrest of the. settler who was lined by the R.M. at Hamilton for cruelly treat 'ngtwochildrcntroriithc Hove fprNcglccted and Destitute Children is tkm described in tho " Waikato Mail:"—

Edwin Charles Shepherd was arrested for perjury at the Railway Station, Hamil ton, on Friday morning, having just driven bis wife over from Whatawhata to meet the up-train from Auckland, and was quite taken aback to learn that the police had already communicated with the boy Samuel Uayors at Onehunga, and received his statement confirming tho treatment of the boy, John Muir, denied by Shepherd on oath. Shepherd was brought a prisoner, into Hamilton, but very considerately informed by Sergeant McGovern that as he had been arrested away from home, the Sergeant would send a man on horseback to any settlement he could name within twenty miles, who^wouldbecome bailforhim, Shep herd, who seemed very downcast, declined to provide bail, and was brought up beforo John Knox, Esq., J.P., and remandod until Wednesday, by which time the boy Havers will have arrived from Onehunga. On Saturday, however, Shepherd was released en bail, himsolf in £400 and two sureties in £200 each. Mr Iwerson, his step-father, and his brother, Mr William Shepherd, both, Whatawhata settlers, being his bondsmen. Very great credit is due to the police both here and at Onehunga, for their promptitude iv dealing with the matter, and especially to Sergeant Green, of Onehunga, The head of the police iv Waikato, immediately after the rising of the Court on Wednesday, telegraphed to Sergeant Green to find Hayers, and got his statemont, and by next day's post the statement was forwarded to Waikato. The whole thing was done before an oppor tunity to tamper with the witness Hayers. could be attempted. Tho evidence taken by the police'shews that Hayers' evidence will be very conclusive. He ran away from Shepherd on account of ill-treatment in April last, Shepherd being in the habit of beating him; the boy Muir, and the girl, two or three times a week. He acknow ledges, hy Shepherd's orders, having assisted in holding John Muir down on tho ground, when he was tied to the cart wheel and beaten by Shepherd,' and also testifies as to the insufficiency ol food and clothing provided for the other children.

THE POLITICAL SITUATION OF THE COLONY.

ADDRESS BY SIR GEORGE GREY.

PURSUANT to previous announcement; Sir George Grey addressed a public meeting of electors at the Theatre Royal last even in*. The time announced for the opening .of"the doors was 7.30 p.m. A very few minutes after that time, the Theatre was well-filled, and before a quarter to eight the lower part of the house was crowded to ex cess. Provision had been made for the ac commodation of the gentler sex, the dress circle being reserved for ladies and gentle men accompanying them. Some time be fore the meeting commenced, every avail able seat in the circle was occupied, and the steps were used by both sexes. Scats were placed ou the platform for the use of gentlemen who had been favoured with special invitations, and amongst those who took advantage of the courtesy thus extended to- them were :-Dr. Wallis, M.H-R. for City West, Mr J. A. Tole, M.H.K. for Eden, Hon. P. Dignan.M.L.C, 'G W. Griffin, United States Consul, Dr. Lee, Messrs S. Luke, T. Thwaites, Boylan, McKenzie, Fleming, Shera, Crowthor. Some time elapsed prior to the arrival of Sir George Grey, but the audience awaited his coming with comparative patience. Garrard, the self-appointed advocate of the unemployed, occupied one of the front seats iv the stalh. A! number of his par tizans observed him in this position, and believing that he should occupy a more prominent station, called ou him to mount the stage. The " unemployed champion " looked wistfully at the coveted position where he would undoubtedly be the "cyno sure of all eye-," but he shook his head mournfully. There were no apparent means by which he could gain the elevated seat, Derisive cries of "Garrard" and "stage" resounded through the building forborne time.S amidst loud and frequent bursts of laughter. The amusement ap peared to divert tho audience greatly, and Garrard was about to respond to the calls of his friends, when Sir George Grey emerged from one of the wiogs and advanced to the front of the stage. His appearance was the signal for enthusiastic cheering, the audience rising en masse and cheering vociferously for several minutes. When the popular demonstration had subsided, Mr Thomas Thwaites moved that Captain D. H. McKenzie should take the chair.

The proposition was seconded by Mr Duriniughain, and the audience testified their satisfaction by acclamation. -

Captain McKenzie said that it gave him great pleasure to preside at this meeting, lie was confident that it would give those present equal pleasure to listen to the address by Sir tieorgc Grey on the present political situation of the colony. It would be hardly iieces«ary to ask an Auckland audience for attention to Sir Gco'ge. His remarks were i 11 variably listened to in this city with respect and attention. He thought that Sir George Grey deserved their thanks and esteem for Ids advocacy of the rights of the people of this part of' tho colony both in and out of Parliament. He might say before intro ducing Sir George that it was not intended that other speakers should be allowed to address the meeting. He had now much pleasure in introducing Sir George Grey, whom, he felt sure, they would listen to with due attention.

OPENING REMARKS,

Sir George Grey on rising to commence his address was received with loud cheering which lasted for some time. He said:—Mr Chairman, ladies and gentlemen—lt is with great pleasure that I find myself once more in the presence of the citizens of Auckland. I shall endeavour as far as I can to enlighten you upon the present position of the colony, and to point out some measures which 1 think should be adopted. Now, you have been told that I only repeat the same things to you over and ovor again (A voice- That is right.) I beg you to bear this in mind : that no great changes are brought about without a constant repetition of the same subject. (Hear, hear.) Had the changes which you are entitled to been made, it would not be necessary for me to point them out to you again. And until they are made, as they will be made, we must stick to the point, and insist upon having them. You will find that that section of the press which takes exception to my remarks on these points is that which never tells you about these things itself. On the contrary, they arc wrapped in a profound silence -an abso lute mystery—and how then are you to get what you are entitled to? Nothing is said a* to the reasons why these things are bo, or why no mention is made of them by that Government appointed to .carry them out. Now, we stuck firmly to_ne point-^Triennial Parliaments, and that was thrown as a sop to us. I daresay you have heard of a Russian sledge being followed by hungry wolves, and of the occupants throwing one thing after auothcr out to them in order to pre serve from them the more precious things, -hit is whnt the Government are trying to dp with us. Let us insist upon that for which the country has a right, aud without which you will never be that great nation which you are destined to be, if you are only true to yourselves.

GOVERNMENT Bf MAJORITIES.

Let me also caution you about this. Do not bo misled by flashy sayings, that you may see, and by hard words—long words—but reason everything out in your own minds. For example ! I had my attention called to an extract from the Tiniaru newspaper, in which it was said, '• Why, Sir George Grey is uttering senti ments unworthy of the man. Ho is trying to establish in this country that most pernicious doctrine of go vernment by bare majorities." Now put this to yourselves :—Every coun try must be govcrnod by a minority or by a majority. You are governed by a very small minority. (A voice : The land ring.) Now, is it a pernicious doctrine I am trying to instil into you when I say that you should desire to be governed by a majority. Is that not what you are entitled to? and is it not wise, then—is it not good— is it not ju»t—that the majority of the people of a country should deter mine :how and in what manner they shall be governed ? (Cheers.) You must b-e governed either by a minority or by a majority.. I say that you .ball be governed by a majority, and that will never be done until you. do away with privilege. Let me aigo tell you'this—how can I hold >-my tongue iipon these, subjects.when I feel strongly. ~..' ~ .; :;

THK ALTERED CON_TITUTION,

: You had a""Constitution which was the envy of almost every British Speaking community that forms a por tion" of the empire of Great Bri tain. I am informed that lately, perhaps the greatest historical writer ol the present day said this in regard to your former con stitution: That if the British Parliament had passed one whole session in enacting a bill which gave you that constitution, it would be a session fruitful in good works 1 and memorable tor ever. Of that constitu tion you were robbed—l won't say by whom—but that constitution was taken away from yon, and yielded up in a manner I think unbecoming. The municipalities weto told and the local badies were told : "If you will allow that constitution to bo taken away we will give you more subsi dies, large sums of money to spend," and, unworthily, I think, being bribed by those promises, the constitution was surrendered and those who surrendered it were justly served. The Act which took away the constitution promised them these subsidies for five years- and I myself was dull enough to believe that at least the law would bo fulfilled and that yon would get the subsidies for five years. But at the end of four years, they were taken away from you, and you were left with neither consti tution nor subsidies. What form of Go vernment has been set up ? It is a form of Government which places you in a worse position than any colony which has repre sentative institutions, and I will show yon that presently,' Let us never rest until we have that constitution again, which shall place .us in the van. of ail the British colonies, and enable us to occupy that proper position which is ours by right and by Act ot Parliament. You will ask me, perhaps, " How is this to be done ?" and to that point I will presently come. You will a»k me to show you that the constitution you now have is worse than that possessed by any other British com munity with tree institutions. That, I think, in a very few words I can show you.

A UNIQUE LEGISLATURE.

Thore is no other British community which has a Legislature constituted as your legislature now is. I first of all will take your Legislative Council. Anybody who knows the British constitution, is well aware that there, what may be termed the Upper House, is the hereditary branch of the Legislature. But are you also aware that it would be impossible for a man who was a representative of the people, and who was deprived of his seat and could get returned by no constitu ency—that it would be impossible, I Bay, that he should be taken and put into tho House of Peers and immediately made a minister? (cheers.) If such a thing were done, there would be an outcry from end to end of Great Britain that every constitu

tional usage had been violated, It is true that occasionally sonic mbmbcr long ill Parliament loses his seat 6r has ho chance of being returned again, and is therefore called to the House of Peers* but heis never made immediately a minister—one of the great officers of State. What is the consequence of such a proceeding ? A man of one of the govern nig families in the country who may be rejected by his constituency, having n 0 object of bis own to gain, having nothing to carry out,'and who would be of use to his own patty, can be elevated in that way. There is nothing of that kind here. If rejected by his constituency, a member here can be put into the Legislative Council, at once made a Minister, and at mice take part in carrying out anything that he may conceive of as for his own advantage, Why, a nation subjected to a law of this kind is not a free nation in any sense of the word. Well, look again, what takes place besides in one of the great governing families of the country, if i, e is in the Upper Houec, and thinks that he can gain a seat in the Upper House, and thereby strengthen his narty there, he can resign his seat iv the Lower House, or he is allowed to do it, I think, although power is given the. Governor to interfere if called upon by tho Ministry. If not he can bo im mediately returned to the Lower House to cairy out any objects ol his own which he may have in view, for tho same power which' put him out of the Upper House would enable him to come in as a represen tative of the people. But even if he loses his seat iv the House of Representatives he may be again called to the Upper House and is consequently always in Parliament in some way or other. Poor Sir David Munro, who for years was Speaker of the House, did not belong to the upper clique and therefore when he lost his seat he received no call to the Upper House. If I myself should happen to lose my aeat is there any man simple enough to believe that I would be called to tbe Upper House. (Laughter aud cries of "No, no.") Now, is this a state of things for you to put up with. And yet they say to me "Do not mention these things ; we are tired of them," but I shall never cease to mention them.

THE GEIDIRONING SYSTEM,

Sir George Grey proceeded to reter to the gridironing system of Can terbury, lie said that they would be Bur-' prised to hear the uproar occasioned iv the House of Representatives, sometimes, when he endeavoured to speak about and explain the gridironing in Cari-; fcrbury—and the cries of " We don't want to hear about it" which rang throughout the House. He spoke of these things because there were always strangers coming into the colony who were ignorant of them, aud his opponents thought that by raising such cries as he had already referred to that they would induce him to remain quiet upon them and allow them to be forgotten. No man who got property in that way acted rijihtly. It was a public crime, and that crime ho would continue to denounce. Just let them conceive a country in which it was said that there was given to the inhabitants ainoble gift, where the people were told— "Walk out into the most beautiful portions of the country you can see; wander forth amongst the most beautiful scenes; go into the fertile places; and take any of tho land which you nay choose, for it tsll belongs to the Govern ment, Go and select, pay £2 an acre, and iv a few hours you are the possessors of it." Then let them conceive a set of men making this rule—making a rule, a law, with the declared object of preventing too great ex pense being incurred in surveys, viz., that no man should be allowed to buy less than twenty acres in that way, They then laid out the country in alternate sections of nineteen and twenty acres, every section of twenty acres having a section of nineteen abres behind it. The rich .men bought up the twenty acre sections, and as it was stipu lated that no less, an area than this should be sold, tho nineteen-acre sections remained unoccupied and they had the use of them. Then the poor man wandered forth in order to pick out a section, and after finding one to his liking, went to the Survey office aud applied for it. The answer would be, "We are very sorry but that is a 19-acre section, and you can't have it." Gould wrong go further than that. No ! Eventually a law was passed making it legal to acquire pro perties of smaller areas, but the rich mea ware able to buy them up. Then another provision was passed, giving men with small properties only one vote in each ridipg, and the men of large estates an in creased number of votes, so that the rich man was placed iv the position of exerting a very great voting power. These votes represented power and influence in all local matters, and all those local institutions therefore were only seemingly representa tive. "• As long as this plurality of voting existed local institutions with large powers would be dangerous, and the people would bb subservient to wealth and property. The same thing was observable in the House of Representatives. Great and. powerful families had suc ceeded m establishing rotten boroughs— boropghs of a few hundred people . whose votes were always safe. Such boroughs, were New Plymouth, Nelson, and some others. They could always be depended on, aud were humoured with much expenditure of public money. Th.-n there was our Civil Service. The men who held such seats as he had referred to did not fight for great principles or needed reforms, but simply voted iv order to keep friends in olßce. Their reward was an office in the Civil Service. They would not support the party of reform, because they knew that it meant a deprivation of patronage, and the country was in consequence borne down by the grievous incubus of an overgrown Civil Service. At Home the s same evil had been felt, and the remedy devised for its cure was to enable a Government upon assuming office to turn out hostile civil servants re placing them with officers representative of public opinion.

EXCEPTIONAL POWERS,

The Government favoured by a subservient majority in Parliament were now increasing theiralrcady largo and unwarrantable powers ■ by establishing another department, the life assurance department -and thus placed themselves in competition with independent ■ companies. The sums obtained in this way.;;' gave them the opporttthitiy of dispensing:. patronage, through their inTe-tments," Besides .their agents'would be useful in disseminating, opinions favourable to the Government.. This was not all. There had been started the office, of public trustee, in.whiish would.be executed wills, etc, and' in this way a., great business was being ; created, and large sums of money were pouring into the Treasury to be used in the same way as the life assurance funds. He had no doubt, too, that If the'matter were inquired into, the offices thus created would be found to be iillod by members of a par ticular family; In thi^way the chains were being fettered which would enslave them and deny them their D'oastcd birth right of freedom. Following the thing fur ther, why, he would ask, had they not an elective instead of a nominee Waste Lands Board—a Board which: made grants of fer tile land to capitalists at Home at the most moderate figures, while the people resident here could only procure indifferent land at a , high price.

TAXA.TION,

Let them turn again to the subject of of taxation. He would not on that occasion speak of the Customs duties, but he would take the Property Tax. Supposing a mau obtained a great swamp on easy terms (laughter)—be was not going into the Piako swamp that night—at a figure ' much lower than would have been obtained at public auction and imagine a railway constructed on either side out of the public funds, and immigrants brought out , by the Government located upon it, the result is that from being originally pur chased for 7s 6d an acre, it rose to £8 or £10 an acre. (Interruption.) Ho said, therefore, that all the money over and above 7s Gd per aero was the property of the people because the value of the land had been wholly enhanced through the public expenditure. Well, if he and his friends succeeded in getting a land tax passed, that unearned increment would be made to yield a Id in the £—a Id in the £on that which was really the people's. Well, he proposed, a tax of Jd in the £ upon land generally—something more | upon the holder of 5,000 acres, ,"■ something more still upon those who bad' 10,000 acres and so on increasing in propor tion to the area held. This proposal, fair though it was, provoked the wrath of the Governmental party.and Major Atkinson in an extraordinary speech attempted to com bat his argument. The Property Tax was passed instead—a tax which discouraged honest industry by levying an impost upon improvements. The thing was inge niously done. The people wereflattercd with the assurancethat propertiesunderthevalue of £500 would be exempted, and, therefore, would escape the incidence of the (ax, But this was a delusion. The tax indirectly reached them, and once passed, the limifof exemption could be easily reduced from time to time, so as in the end to . reach all classes of the community. Let them consider for a moment the effect of this tax. Supposing two men were placed upon a desert island, aud one made grass to grow where none grew before, while tbc other remained idleand did nothing, and that the latter was left alone, while the former was compelled to pay a penalty for his efforts to benefit tho country. What'

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, TUESDAY MAY 17



The 8.0. tairoa left for Southern Port at 11.10 n.m. today, with tho following passengers:— Mr and Mrs C. A. Weils and child. Miss R. Benny, Messrs Trenohard, Hooker, Guild, John son, Goldwater, and two natives.



-OMMERCIAL. -4»- '■ Evening Star Office, Tuesday. Messrs Tonka and Co. sold to-day 110 half chests and 300 boxes of tea, which were quoted at fair priqp?, several lines of osts brought 2s 3d, and a quantity of damaged wheat 3s 3d to3s 53. Mr Arthur sold damaged wheat (milling) 3s Id to 3s Id, chicken do 2s lid to 3s 2d, jujubes 6d, butter, according to quality, 3}d to 6Jd, oats 2s 3d. Xf. RED K. WHITEH EA D, Tea Dealer and Tobacconist, VICTORIA-STREET, Will be glad to receive calls from his numerous friends and customers who have been in the habit of dealing at the Queen-street Bhop. Those indebted there will please settle th _rfr Accounts at tho Victoria-street Store. O V V A, FIJI. The undersigned have for Sale, near Suva. Fiji (the new capital), BLOCKS OF LAND Apply to B. TONKS&CO. - Q N S A L E, CANTERBURY AND WAIKATO POTATOES. PRIME QUALITY. G. S. JAKINS, -OSTOM-HOUSE-STl_-KT. T& H. COOKE, 67, QUEEN-STREET, have i on sale one of the Largest Stocks of Furniture and Bedding in the Colony. . & H. COOkE. 67, QUEEN-31'RKBT, have • just opened some New Patterns in Tapestry and Bhusbe_b Cabpets. T& H. COOKE, 67, QUEEN-STREET, em . ploying Machinery in their Manufactory, are able to supply Furniture at lowest rates. T& H. COOKEreZQI/EEN^STREET, have • on eale a large assortment of Cane 8-ATed Chairs, English, American, and Aus trian Bentwood. T& H. COOKE, 67, QUEEN-STREET, have • lately received a shipment of Superior Gilt Chimney G._asbeß. t& h. cooke, 67 • Guarantee the .ality of all Beds, Mattresses, Bolster., and Pillows sold at their Establishment. & H. COOKE, 67, QUEEN-STREET, . Deliver all Goods free of charge within a radius of three miles. . T& H. COOKE. 67. QUEEN-STREET, give . a DISCOUNT or' FIVE PER CENT, for CASH oft all FURNITURE and BEDDING at time of order or doli-or- of Goods. rp O F' UILD ER s. Tenders will bo received until 12 o'clock on £, Rl_? AX. ttl6 20th, for Building a Store at | Morrinsvlllefor Messrs. Rowe. nans, __o„ may be seen at my office. JAMEB WRIi- i»v



Special Advertisements^ xy ink s &jg\ AA h L > ' Wholesale and Retail cabinetm-ckers and upholsterers, AND CARPET WAREHOUSEMEN, SHORTLAND-HTREKT, Beg to inform the Publio that they have Opened their New Warehouse WI-H A SPLENDID ASSORTMENT OF FURNITURE, The Latest Novelties, and The Newest DEBTGNS. Their Btock of CARPETS, for Varioty, Quality, and Price has never been surpassed in Auokland. A large assortment of LINOLEUM and FLOOR CLOTHS in all widths. MATTINGS, MATS, and RUGS in groat variety. The Newest and Latest Patterns in Cretonnes and Trimmings. Silk and Worsted Reps, Coteleines, Tapestry, and Damask Coverings. Cloth and Tapestry Table Covers. Laco, Not, and Muslin Curtains. A large and well-assorted Stock of all tho N owest Patterns in Toiletware, The Largest Stock of Brass and Iron BED STEADS and COTS in Now Zealand to choose from. A ohoice assortment of Dolly Vardon Down Quilts, Blankets, Bed and Table Linon, Towels, Toilot Covers, &c, &c. Agents for tho Iron Venetian Blinds—"the Blind of the Poriod." Those aro tho only perfect blinds made. Inspection Invited. 1 WINK S &~ II AL L, 1/ SHORTLAND-STREKT. ' rriHE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. Auckland Branch. THK Supply a Singlo Gar- NEW ZEALAND ment at tho Whole- CLOTHING FACTORY sale Prloe. THE " Have Branch Estab- NKW ZEALAND lishmenta in evory CLOTHING FACTORY town in Now Zealand T tt„ Are now displaying NEW ZEALAND gf Manufactures CLOTHING FACTORY w[ nt <~. THE Varioty of Stylos pro- NEW ZEALAND nounced Unoqualled CLOTHING FACTORY in tho Market. newTkaland aft^ 1' CLOTHING FACTORY elml t0 De3P°ke' THE Weai-resisting Tweeds NEW ZEALAND in evory varioty of CLOTHING FACTORY Garment. THK Daily increasing trado NBW ZKALAND proves tho excellence CLOTHING FACTORY of Manufaotaro. THK Produce and dispose of NEW ZEALAND Thousands of Gar- CLOTHING FACTORY raenta Weekly. NEW ZEALAND Buy and Sell for Cash . CLOT H ING FACTORY on' - , mr-w Are theroforo patron „ NEW ZEALAND ___\_____. oT__t__^ P CLOTHING FACTORY Discerning Custom-, THE Is the Premier Estab- NEW ZEALAND lishmentinNewZea- CLOTHING FACTORY land. t IVfOTE THE BRANCH ADDRESS -0 J-™ Queen-street, Auckland. J. FITZSIMONS, v Branch Manager. '• • And at Albert-street, .Thames.



A MERICAN WALTHAM WATCHES. AWARDED TH ONLY TWO FIRST PRIZES, MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION, 1880. Higher Award than any other exhibitor received. MEMO. TO THE PUBLIC. City Hall Arcade, Queen-street, Auckland. Twelve months ago we initiated the Co operative Cash System, and our customers during that time have reaped the advantages of a Co-operative Soclet. without taking any risk themselves. GARLICK & CRANWELL. MEMO. We thank you for the earnest support during the past year, and your unmistakable ver dict that you appreciate our endeavours to give the Cashbuyera considerable advantage over the Credit purchaser. GARLICK _. CRANWELL. MEMO. Our percentage of profit on Prapery, Clothing, Millinery, and Fancy Goods has been very Bmall indeed, and had not our Returns been greatly increased, it would have proved a loßß' i_Aß_.ir;i. jfe oRANWELL. MEMO. WINTER, 1881J We havelthe pleasure to inform you our Autumn and Winter Stock is now open, containing numerous Novelties. Spcoial attention has been paid to the selection of Dress Goods with Trimmings to match. Woassura.ou we ha;. 6 the greatest variety and cheapest lines in Dresses to be found in Auokland, and the Fancy Department bristles with Frenoh, English, and Foreign Articles of beautiful texture and delicate finish. Kindly inspeot our Stook and judge for yourselves. GARLICK & CRANWELL.



Enumeration of Some op tub Lines in Various Departments— INDRKSBKB: The "Handkerchief" Costume Is one that will be a favourite ; the material is ex cellent, colours good, and is both Useful and Stylish. . _ "Velveteens" will command attention Velveteens—Plain, Stamped, and Pompa dour, in all the fashionable colours. Silk Plushes, will be used for Trimmings. We have these in Various Qualities and all the Leading bhadeu. Silk and Cashmere Pompadours, for Trim ming Costumes. Parisian Costumes Princess Cloths Alexandra Cords Cyprus Cords French Estamlnes Reppa and Poplins French Merinos Cashmeres Carmalites, Beiges, Serges (all wool) Persian Cords Russell Cords a. We shall rigidly adhere to the Co / \ operative Cash System for another / p. \ year, and refusb, as hitherto, / CS. \-_ OPEN ANY NEW ACCOUNTS for \ _ /Drapery and Clothing Goods. \0.0./ GARLICK & CRANWELL, \ / CITY HALL ARCADE, V Queen-street, Auckland. TC-NCOURAGE LOCAL INDUSTRY. WILLIAM RATTRAY Begs to draw the.attentlon of the public to his Large St:ck of ROSLYN FLANNELS ROSLYN BLAKKETS MOSG7EL TWEEDS KAIAPOI TWEEDS. The above Goods are made in the Colony from Wool grown in New Zealand, and are of Superior Quality to Imported Goods at the same prices. AIL therefore, who have the interests of Local Industries at heart, should purchase them at tttilliam tdattray's Drapery, Clothing, Millinery and Mantle Establishment, New Zealand House, 62, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND, Opposite the Bane ok New Ze aland). fIPECIAL NOTICE. W. H. FENTON IS NOW OPENING NEW GOODS, as under:— Waterproof Coats—the Patent Ventilating, I Chesterfield, and Ulster, for walking or , ■riding • i The Now Cyprian Shirt in Coloured and Whito Patent Spring and Fur-top Gloves Scarves and Bows in all the New Colours Silk Half-hose, Pants and Under-shirts New Braces, Collars, and Mufflers 1 Knitted Polo and Football Caps [ I.ewFelt and Cloth Hats in endless variety I Umbrellas, Bugs, and Gladstone Bags. I w. H. F ENTON> GENTLEMEN'S HATTER & MERCER, - 78, QUEEN-STREET (Opposite "Herald" Office). TW. HICK SO N, • SURVEYOR (late inspector survey department), South British Buildings. land broker, Licensed to transact business under the pro visions of the Land Transfer Act. Charge for preparing Deed of Transfer, Mort l gage, or Lease under Act, when value of pro perty is under _}iOO---0-. When value of property Is over £800- 30s. For transfer of Lease or Mortgage, or surren dor ot Lease -__ .... .....



TUST LANDED, EX ' SUPERIOR,' FROM NEW YORK, J A Large Shipment of AMERICAN ORGANS, Sultablo for the CHURCH, SCHOOL OR PARLOUR I (From the Celobrated Firm of Wilcox & White B. TONKS & CO., Auctioneers, Quocn-Btreot, Auokland. N.B.—The Instruments are now on viow at our Mart. p H I N A, GLASS, AND J^arthknwarE. BEST AND CHEAPEST ASSORTMENT IN NEW ZEALAND. G. BROWNING, (LATE J. B. FRANCIS), 225, QUEEN - STREET. Tj. X. ' S V It ' E N: ift TONS PURE BONEDUST, *" superior sample, • £7 10S. i 1 ion TONS SMITHS' & HOUBKHOLD IoV BEST NEWCASTLE COAL. Also, s Tho Balance GUANO, ox ' East Lothian,' about _qq TONS, at £3. ; W. & G. WIN STONE. : tar &l Frkk gifts!—Tho Proprietors ol ' Wolfe's Aromatic Sohisdam scbnapps, to inauco the destruction and prevont tho ini oropor use of their wrappers and labels, and thus furthor proteot the Pnblio against fraud and doception, have enclosed la the -wrappers, i or under ho labol on tho quart bottles, since Ist f Octobor, 1878, and continue to enclose in every • DAY'S PACKING THROUGHOUT THE YEAR THREE £1 O R D B R S, which • are drawn upon the undersigned, and • which will be cashed by them on presentation. To secure the-e Gifts, the PubUo must be careful to ask for, and accept nothing but, the " Genuine Udoi pao Wolfe s Schnapps, with our name upon the top label, M. Moss & Co Wynyard lino, Sydney. Trade Mark, Waltham, Mass.—The AM-RiCAtf WATCH Company, of Waltham, Massachusetts, U.S.A., hereby give notloo that their Trade Mark, " Waltham, Mass.," is now registered in the Australian Colonies of Victoria, New South Wales, and New Zealand, Proceed ings will-be taken against any porson copying or nutating same, or any vendors Belling or offering for Bale watohes bearing colourable imitations or in any way infringing our rights —American Watch Company, Waltham, Macs.



The Ballarat dividends tho week before last were £1200.



The waxwork exhibition will be opened to-morrow in the Albert Hall, consisting of a grand oolleotion of figures of persons celebrated for their virtues, and others who have made themselves notorious in the annals of crimo. Among the former will be noticed with pleading effect tho world-famous Florence Mghtingale.a lady who modestly distinguished herself by her kindly services to tho sick nnd wounded during tho Crimean War; also, the benevolont mer chant, George Peabody, and tho witty Artemus Ward. The proprietor has been at great ex pense in the production of Ms new gallery of models, whloh are life-liko and superior to any of tho kind which have been exhibited iv tho colonies.