SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIH I WATER { To . morrow Morning, 6.9 r UNBKT.-Thla Kventng, 5.35 ' UNRISB.—To-Morrow Morning, 6.27 MOON'S AGK.-Full Moon, 11th, 11.29 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

SATURDAY EVENING.

Wellington, s.a., Anderson, from Whangarol Sybil, schooner, Sinclair, from Savago Island Minnio Have, schooner, Skinner, from Eaflt Coast YESTERDAY. Fingal, b.b., Norrie, from Mercury Bay Cleopatra, sohooner, Kooble, from Lyttolton Kato McGregor, schooner, Conch, from Tlmaru LAST KVKNINO. Reward, schooner, indorson, from WhaDgarol Hero, b.b., Logan, from Sydnoy TO-DAY. Waiwera, schooner, Buahell, for Tauranga

DEPARTURES.

TO-DAY.

Wellington, s.s., Anderson, for Tanranga locs, 8.5., Stephenson, (or Russell

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

Sydney—Ringaroom a, 19th Molbourno and South—Albion, b.b., Thursday Taranaki and aouth—Pen Ruin, Tuoßday Tanranga—Glonelg, Tuesday and Friday; vvel

lington. Monday Ruseell-lona, Monday; Wellington, Wodnos-

day Whangarei—Argyle, Tuesdays and Fridays : Wellington, Wednesday and Friday Whangarol and HusSOll—Wellington, Wednes day

IMPORTS.

Per Horo, from Molbourno:—967 gnnnloa and 052 mats sugar, 810 bags rice, 265 i-ohests tea, 555 boxes ton, 127 packages tobacco, 030 package wire, 200 cases castor oil, 17 bundles timber 20 oa3es wire, 150 casoa spirits, 18 qr-nasks, 223 00309,38 casks, 32 bales, 13 cases acid, 20 bundles hoop iron, 88 longths Dlpo, 87 bars iron, 15 sheota copper, 12 /oils netting, 21 furnance doors, 18 furnanoe grates, 15 trunks, 25ingots tin, CG ovens 200 saoks grass seed, 1501 sash woights, 81 grind stones, 24 axle arms, 80 tram rails, 31 packages. From Sydney :-294 bags boneduet, 39 cases, 2 paokagos, 3 oaves, 3 bales.

Per Sybil, from Savage Islands: 23C1 gallons llmejuice, 1 ton pearl shell, 15 cwt copra, 65 lbs sponge, 402 bunches bananas, 45,450 oranges.

Por Kate McGregor, from Timaru: 580 eaoks wheat, 270 sacks oats.

Per Cloopatra, from Lyttolton: 1050 Backs ■wheat,

Per Fingal, fiom Mercury Bay: 15S eaoks gum, 11 paokages sundry merchandise.

Per Walwera, from Rarotonga—B,ooo oranges, 300 pines.

Per Minnie Hare from Poverty Bay—s3 eaoks wheat, 194 sacks grass seed, 25 bucks maize. 3 bales and 58 sacks fungus, 6 bides, 1 cwt tallow, 30 turkeys, 9 bales and i bags wool, 15 cases and packages sundries.

Inwards Coastwise.—Ghost, from Orewa; Persevoranoe, from Waiheko; South Carolina, from Barrier; Blanche, from Wade; Magio, from Meroury Bay; Elsinore, from Talma; Ocean, from Thames ; Zillab, from Thames.

outwabd3 Coastwise.—Paku, for Talrua; Perseverance, for VV alheko; Sonth Carolina, for Barrier: Blanche, for Wade; Adah, for Thames; Magio, for Meroury Bay; Ocean, for Russell; ZiUah, for Thames.

The barque Glimpse ontorcd out at tho Customs to-day for Sandwich Islands, via Russell.

Tho schooner Edith entered out at the Customs to-day for Tonga, and the Pirate, sohooner, for Huahine.

The sohooner Cleopatra arrired from Lytto ton on Sunday morning. She left Lyttolton on the 2nd, and bad light u.W. wind until reaching Kaikouras, when a heavy gale set in and lasted for 12 houre. Thence to port, light S. and S.E. winds.

The schooner Waiwera arrived from Rarotonga this af*ernoon. Captain Bnshell re ports leaving Rarotonga on the 26th. Ex perienced light N.E. wind for eight days, thoa three days N. W., followed by S.K. and K. winds which lasted till arrival. The Walwera brings a full rargo of Island produce-oranges, cocoa nuts, plnoapplee, etc.

The barque Sydenham cleared at tho Customs to-day in ballast for Lyttolton, whero she will load for London.

The Melbourne " Age" of tho first Aprl says:—"The yachts Janet, Tsniwhn, and Mary Queen, have been pitted aiainst eaoh other for a race to come off to-morrow from Williamstown, and thence again round tho buoy off Brighton to tho starting point."

The schooner A gnes Donald was at Rarotonga on the 26th March.

The schooner Ovalau was expected to leave Rarotonga for Auckland about the sth.

The ketch Pearl was loading at Raxotonga for Auckland on the 28th March.

The schooner Kate McGregor arrivod from Timaru yesterday, having left that port on March 31st, and had light westerly winds to Banks Peninsula; thenco to the Kaikouras N.E., followed by a strong northerly gale which lasted until Cape Palliser was reached. Thenco to White Island, S. and S.W. winds, and from thence to port, E. and N.E. wind and fine weather,

The schooner Minnie Hare arrived from Gia borne and Bast Coast ports on Saturday evening, having left on the 29ih lnst., called at Opotiki, Open Bay, and Awanui, and experienced light favourable winds during tno pasjage.

Tbe schooner Mazeppa is expected to leave Rarotonga for Auckland about May Ist. The schooner Onward has turned her cargo ont in exonllent condition and is taking in bal last for Hokianga. >h& loads at that port for Ljttelton with timber.

The schooner Pirate is filling up with general stores for Baratonga and leaves (or a cruise in the Harvey Group on Friday next.

The brigant me Look Out has completed the discharge of her inward cargo and is taking in ballast for Kaipwa, whore she will load timber for Sydney. She will probably sail on Thursday next.

The schooner Sybil arrived in harbour from an Island cruise on Saturday night. Captain Sin clair reports of the round trip as follows:—Lett Auckland on January 10th with a fresh breeze, and same night, which, when 25 miles N.K. of Little Barrier, freshened into a gslo, accom panied by heavy ground swell and high topping Sea. Lostjiboom and outer jib, Tha brace and bowsprit also broke off in pieces, and fore-top mast backstays carried away. The gale moder ated on the 12th, but remained between N.K. and B.E. the whole paosage to Tahiti, which was leached on February 5. From Tahiti proceeded on a cruise through Society Group, and from thenoe to Pearl Islands, and others to tho N.W. Left Savage Island April 2, with light airs and calms, tho wind freshening on the Ith and oozing from the S.K., and continued so until Saturday morning at 5.30 when the Barrier was sighted. From thence to port light winds and floo weather.

ARRIVAL OF THE HERO.

The Union Company's s.s. Hero, Captain Tho lnns Logan, arrived in harbour to-day at 2 p.m. We are Indebted to the purser for late files, and tho following report:—Left Melbourne at 2.30 p.m. on the 2nd, clearing Port Phillip Heads at 6.15 p.m.; experienced strong N. winds; reached Sydney at 11.30 p.m. on the Ith; sailing again at 530 p.m. on the sth; experienced light N.W. winds till Thursday, the 7th; thence, strong head winds and heavy head sea; made the Three Rings at noon on the 10th; was abrest of Cape Brett at 2 a.m. on the 11th ; arriving as above. Passengers :—Auckland, Miss Ainstle, Master DargaviUe, Mr Rees, Mr Gardet. For Hokitika, Mr R. Perry, Mr Simon, Mrs Joy. For oreymoutb, Mies Lineham, Mrs Erlckson, Miss Kriokson, Mr Butler, 21 in steerage, and 40 Chinese,

TRIAL TRIP OF THE WAIHOU.

Messrs Fraser and Tinno's new shallow draft steamer, Walhou, -was out for a trial trip on Saturday afternoon. Among the gentlemen on board were Mr James Mills (manager of the N.S 8. Co.), Mr Lodder (manager A.H.B. Co.), Captain A. McGregor, and Mr Heath, and several other gentlemen. The steamer was brought over to the Queen-street wh»r( about 1,30 p.m., and shortly after 3 o'c'ock started fora cruise around the harbour, keeping close to shore. The gentlemen on board expressed great satisfaction with the working of tho steamer generally, and uhe will be found spooially adapted to the requirements of the trade for which Bho is intended. The Waihou is 65 feet long, with paddle wheol abaft, making her total length about 78 feet, with a beam 16 feet 6 inches, and 3 feet 6 inches depth of hold. She is of iroD, with a bottom perfectly flat, and oovered with planking 2 inches tbiotr. She has beep fitted with ten water-tight compartments, whioh can, when occasion requires, be pumped out with the donkey engine. The paddlewhe»l is driven by a pair of horizontal engines with gearingr, tho pinion on the engine shaft being ono sixth tho size of the spin wheel on tho paddle shaft. During the trip the engines were working about 200 revolutions per minute, and the paddlewheel 33 revolutions, tho spaed attained being nearly seven miles per hour. The boiler is of the locomotive type, oovered with cedar, and fastened with brass bands, with a small donkey engine affixed to the side. Her draft of water with coal and water is 2 feet aft, and 15 inchsa forward. A covering, the entire length of the vessel, which is supported by l'ght iron pillars, provoa a shelter from tho sun, and a canvas enrtain Is so arranged that when let down from the roof, the vessel presents a very comfortable appearance. The waihou will undoubtedly be a great'eon vonienco to the settlers living any distance up the rivers where she will trade, and her entorprißing builders surely deserve a good share of their patronage

FORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Penguin, s.s., Malcolm, from the South

IMPORTS.

Per Penguin from Wellington—7 parcels and Saokages, 1 keg. From Plctra—B horses. From felson—B casks butler. From New Plyniouth= 61 hides, 13 bundles skins, 7 empty case?, 1G boxes butter, 1 truss, i packages and parcels sundries. JfromDuneain — 8 cases, 36 bags, 1 parcel.

The s.s. Penguin arrived from the South at 8 a.m. on Sunday morninif. She left Port Chal mers on the 4th at 4.30. p.m. and arrived at Lyttelton on the sth, Wellington Oth, Pioton 7th, Nelson Btb, Taranaki 9th, and Onehunga wharf at 8 a.m. Her passenger list is as follows: —Misses Heywood, Mackay, and Cox, Messrs Fitotuier, Gentry, Loftus, Partineton, Connell, Duff, Mclvor, Coleman. Cahill, Xershaw. and HiKßlns. Steerage: Messrs Leonard, Keller, Mcdtinnis, Kelly, Rogers, Berford. Larkins. Fi-io, Conlano, Mrs Jougbin and 3 children, Mr and Mrs ThompßOD, 1 native, and 2 boys.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Whanoabei, this day. Sailed: Argyle, e.s., for Auckland, at 8 a.m. Russeix, this day. Sailed: Whale ship Robert Morrison, for a cruise. The Glenelg sails at 4 p.m. for Auck- Gisborne, yesterday. Soiled: Albion, 5.?., for Auckland, at 6 p.m. Bluff, yesterday. Arrived: Ringarooma, from Melbonrne. Pas sengers for Auckland : Mrs Culleige and child, and Mr Plant.

Mail Notice.

Mails will Close as Under.— This day. For Samoa, per H.I.G.M. ship Moovo, at 1 p.m. For Tuiruu, per Paku, at 1 p.m, For Kuspoll, Kawakawa, Wangaroa, and Mongonui, por loua, ut 1 p.m. For Taurautra and Opotiki, por Wellington, at i p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Tuesday, 12th instant. For Waiwera, Kawau, Omaha, and Matakana, per Roso Casoy, at 10 a.m. For Thames, por Ratomiihn.na, at 10.33 a.m. For Whltiangi, per Fingal, at 11 a.m. For Taranaki and Southern Porto, por Penguin, at 1 p.m. For Greyrnouth, Hokltika, Newcostlo, and Melbourne, per Hero, at 3 p.m. For Friendly lalanda, per Kdith, at 3 p.m. For Tainia, per Etsinor, at 3 p.m. For Tauranga and Opotiki, por Glonelg, at 4 p.m For Whangarol Heads, Waipu, Whangaroi, and Mangapa), per Argylfl, at 1 p.m. WEDNESDAY, 13th instant. For Waitara, &c, por I-alla Kookh, at 6 a.m. For Coromandel, por Coromandu),at 11,30 am. J Thursday, Utti instant. For Huahino, per Pirate, at 3 p.m.

N.B.—Tho following aro tho dates for tho P. and 0. and Orient lino of steamera leaving Mel bourne :— P. AND 0. BTISAMERS. March 30, April 13, April 27, May 11, May 25, Juno 7, June 21, and July sth. ORIENT STEAMERS. March 29, April 12, April 20, May 10, May 2J, June 6, June 20, and July 24. Malls for Continent of Europe and United Kingdom, via Brindisl and via Naples and Plymouth, will be made up at InvercarglU to arrive at Molbourno by the abovo dates. N.B.—Thoateamer Wallace will loavo Nelson for the Sounds on Tuesday, 12td instant, calling at Woit Coast Ports. S. B, BJSS, Chief Postmaster, Chief Post-ofllco. Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

April llth, 1881,

Choral Hall—Art Exhibition, open until 9 p.m. Y.M.C.A.-Addre>B by Roy. C. M. Pym, 7.30 p.m.

at Matthow's Church—Special Service, 7.30 p.m.

Theatro Royal — Simonsen's Royal Opera Company, " n Trovatoro." 8 p.m.

St. James's Hall-Leoturo by E. W. Burton on "The Political Destiny of the Australasian Colonies," 7.30 p.m.

Birth.

KKMP.-On 9th April, near Otahuhu, Mre.C. J. Kemp, of a daughter; both doing well. O'CONNOR.-On 2nd April, at her residence, Aratapu, the wife of Mr. M. O'Connor of a

daughter. RKDFEKN.—On 9th April, at Richmond Road, Ponsonby, tho wife of R. Kodfern of a son. BTANLEY.-On 10th April, at her residence, Cambridgo-streot, Newton, tho wifo of Jamoß Stanley of a son.

Death.

SBALY.—April Bth, at Richmond, Nelson, William Georpro, eldest son of William Byers Scaly, M.D., of Nelson. AND, ' COPLAND.-April Bth, at Wellington, of typhoid fever, Martin, second son of John Copland, of Auckland, in his 21st year, PHILIP.—On 9th April, at her residence, New market. Kliza, the beloved wife of William Philip, aged 39 years.

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

MONDAY, APRIL 11, 1881.

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

Owing to pressure on our columns by various long local reports we aro com pelled to omit leading matter.

Tho fortnightly sitting of the" District Court should have been held to-day, but at the appointed time there was no judgo in attendance, and consequently the Court was adjourned till the 25tn instant. The following cases were set down for hearing : —Frederick James Somerfield and John Leek v. William English, claim £57 6s 10d, judgment summons ; Jomea Wallace v, William Cooper, claim £50, rent; .Robert Whitson Johnstone, by next friend, George Johnston c, v, John Smith, claim £100 damages.

The Commissioner of Crown Lands this morning leased by auction the following blocks: Hobson County, To Kuri block, Wairoa North, unsold portion of block, 9,330 acres (third-class land) for a period of 14 years—leased to John Scarrott at upset price, £10 a year; East Taupo, County Tauhara, north block, S. W. part 6,714 acres (third.class land) for a period of 14 years— leased to Mr J. Gallagher at £33 a year.

A little boy aped nine years, a son of Mr F. J. Shortt, had a very narrow escape from drowm'Dg on Satnrday afternoon. In company with :in elder brother, the child wandered down to the Timber Company's Mill, and while walking rather near the water's edge, slipped and fell. The acci dent was observed lay a young man named Robert Wilkinson, who, divesting himself of his_ coat, plunged in and succeeded in rescuing the little fellow. The child's parents are very thankful for his recovery, and express their gratitude to Wilkinson for so promptly going into the water.

A mishap which occurred on Saturday in burning off scrub should act as a caution to persons who set fire to furze at this dry season. Mr Taylor, the purchaser of an allotment on Conquest Place, at the back of Mr Street's property, had taken off bis coat and thrown it down, and then set fire to the scrub, when the (ire ran along with such unexpected rapidity that it consumed all before it, not excepting the coat. In the breast-pocket was a leather pocket-book, containing a considerable sum of money and several orders of value, but these were fortunately rescued before the upper part of the coat was wholly burned up. The fire extended to adjacent properties, but no other serious damage was done.

Mr A. Boardman has presented to tho Free Public Library fifteen volumes, in cluding among them the "History of Philosophy," by G. H, Lews, 2 vols.; " Chips from a German Workshop," Max Muller, 2 vols.; Bain's " Mental and Moral Science" ; Lyell's "Manual of Elementary Geology "; " Man's ago in tho World," and French, German and English Grammars. A little boy named Walter Kirby in com pany with his Bister wereplayingou tho wharf on Sunday, when tho little follow, going too near tho edge, tumbled over. Mr Jolm Harrison, who was on the wharf at the time, and saw the accident, jumped over without tho alighest hesitation and rescued the child from what, but for his timely aid, would havo been a watery gravo. Several boats were immediately put off to his aassistance and one of them (Barron's) took in Hurri son and his charge. Fortunately tho child was little tho worse for his ducking, his only loss being a hat which had floated away. The members of No. 3 Company A, K. V. will muster at tho Drill shed To-morrow evening at 7. 30 o'clock sharp for tho pur pose of making final arrangements for tho forthcoming Keviow. Havresacka will bo issued vnd definite instructions given to each man as to what ho will require to take with him. A full muster is expected. The Rev. Father Walter McDonald requests all kind friends to whom books of tickets tor the art union iv aid of St. Patrick's Cathedral havo been issued to return the block to tho Presbytery Wyndham-strcet, at onco, so that finul arrangements cnu be mndo for the drawing.

The Bishop of Auckland, Dr. Cowic, held mi ordination scrvicoyoatorduy at St. Paul's Cathedral church, which was largely at tended, although commencing at nu earlier hour than usual. The gentleman ordained was Mr Hcwson, recently fromj tho old land, who will at onoo proceed to his ap pointed sphere of labour iv tlic districts of Northern Kaipara. Archdcucoa Maunsell assisted at tho ceremony,, also tho Kcv. C. M. NOIBOII. The Bishop delivered a suit able and impressive discourse on tho occa sion, which was listened to with devout at tention. Tho Roy. C. I'ym commenced a series of evangelistic services in the hall of tho Young Men's Christian Association Rooms at noon to-day. Dean's Minatrels tiro busily preparing for thoir Easter concerts to be hold in the Lorno-strcctllallon the evenings of the 18th and 19th (Monday aud Tuesday noxt). Wo understand thut several now features and novelties will bo introduced, which will bo described iv tho advancing programme The Fire Brigade Salvage Corps aud other public bodios have promised thoir sup port. Thirty-six succossivo shocks of oarth quako occurred in the beginning ot February at St. Michaols, in tho Azores. One church aud 200 houses have fallen, and several persons havo been killed. St. Michaels is tho largest city iv the island of tho same name. The island, which con tains a population of 350,000, is frequently visited by earthquakes, Tho Panama " Star and Herald" oi February sth says : A revolution has broken out iv Antioqua, tho portion of the troops revoliiug proclaiming at tho same time a Preßidout. To Bishop Gonzalez is attri buted the revolt, which was characterised by tho usual sceiies of bloodshed and murder. Tho liglitl'iil President finally Biicucoded in subduing tho mutinous soldiers, anil dis persing his political antagonist. In Veue zuela, Geuotal Solouznno has raised the standard of revolt against President Guz man Blanco. Charles McDonald, aged nine years, pon of Mr J. K. McDonald, Government Insur ance Agent, of Hamilton, went down to tho Waikato river in company with another boy to bathe. Tho little boy McDonald was swept away by tho stream, llis sister ran and brought their father, who saw tho body of his boy lying in about four feot of water near a bank in tho middle of tho river. Ho immediately swam oil"and lifted tho body out on to tho bank and endea voured to restore animation. Constablo Murray soon afterwards swam oil", aud assisted the father in carrying the body ashore. Dr. Kdgelow, who was summoned, used all possible means to promote respira tion, aud peracverod for two hours, when it was manifest thut Hfo was totally extinct.

At midnight on Saturday the inmates of the Commercial Hotel were thrown into a state of alarm in consequence of the fact that Joseph Hill had been taken ill through taking a lotiou instead of his usual medicine. Mr Kidd, the proprietor of the hotel, immediately sent a cab fur Dr. ICen dcrdine who promptly attended, and ad ministered the necessary emetic which was successful in bringing the man round from the threshold of death.

St. Patrick's Cathedral was largely attended yesterday, it boing Palm Sunday, oue of those days held in reverence by mem bers of the Roman Catholic Church. There were also a number of thcolh'ccrs and crews of tho German warships now in port. His Grace Archbishop Steins celcbriUed mass at 9 o'clock, aud subsequently nddr^scd tho congregation, first in English and then in German ; the latter for the bcuelit of tho seamen, who were pleased therewith. At the 11 o'clock service a number of Mnorie3 from Mongonui were in attendance. Their service was conducted under tho guidance of Iho Rev. Father Walter McDonald. The cvoniug devotions had rcferenco to the Bona Mors, or a happy death, which take place on the second Sunday of each month in the Cathedral. His Grace officiated, and deli vered au earnest discourse. The choir rendered appropriate chants.

Between Saturday at midnight and 10 o'clock on Sunday morning a lire alarm was rung from the Insurance fire-bell, the cause of which proved to bo a volume of smoke which was observed issuing from the grating of the Waverly Hotel in Queoii-street. Theoccupantshad retired, but were speedily aroused, and the cellar was opened. It was then seen that a quantity of straw was burning, and water being close at hand tho fire was soon got under. The Fire Brigade turned out, but their assistance was not required. The origin of the fire is unknown, but it is not unlikoly that it could hare been ignited from a match thrown down the grating, as has been the case in several similar instances, as the place where tho straw was burning is eight feet back from the front of the building. The servant was in the habit of placing the ashes in the cellar, but states that she had been in several times during the day and observed no signs of tire. The barman, also, was in the cellar between 8 and 9 o'clock. There was but little or no damage done.

The "Home News" says:—"Tho ancient prostige of the Lord Mayoralty of London is now seriously threatened. The new Lord Mayor, as people well know, is only an alderman, but a shining light in his own particular chapel. His lordship has scruples as to tho propriety of dancing, proper enough in a man, but awkward in a Lord Mayor. He even carries his objections so far aa to set hia face against children dancing. At tho usual children's ball at the Mansion House the other day it was Huddeuly discovered that there was to bo no dancing, and a very dull evening was spent in consequence."

The affiliation case Stoelo v, Keeuan was continued at Hamilton on Saturday, when Mr Watt, accountant of tho bank of Row Zealand, Auckland, was examined, and confirmed tho opinion of the other skilled witnesses that the writing of the letters produced by the complainant was identical with Keenan's. The magistrate concurred in the opinion, and said there was no doubt whatever on' his mind that Kichard Koenan was the father of the child. He thereforo made au order for 10s a-week from November last uutil the child is 14 years old, and committed the defendant to gaol until he con lind two sureties of £100 each, and himself in £200 that tho cider will be met. Costs amount' ing to £10 17s were also granted.

Tho following iaterestiug communication has reached England from Algiers :-Gieat excitement has jU9t been caused here among archaeologists and the learned generally by tho discovery of an Oriental Pompeii, an ancient Moorish city, with its mosques and monuments, buried for ages in the sand of the desert. The discovery is duo to M. Tarry, Inspector of Finance, who im mediately communicated the fact to the Algcriau Government, begging for the necessary help in excavation and alao for a concession of the desired territory.

The St. Louis (U.S.) "Republican's" Little ltock special gives the following account of the lynching of four negroes at Little Kock:—" Information has been re ceived that four negroes, Greon Harris, Giles Peck, John Wood, Burt Hoskins, im plicated in the murder of Miss Mattie Ishiuael, near Jancsboro, a few days ago, have been lynched by a baud of masked men, numbering 200 or 300. The lynchers suddenly appeared from the woods, sjr rounded the house where the negroes were temporarily placed, overpowered the guards, took the prisoners out atid hanged them to a tree. The lynchers then disap peared as quickly and silently as they gathered. It is claimed that prior to their execution the negroes made a fall confession giving a detailed account of the crime, alleging that Miss Ishmael was killed for refusing to disclose the hiding place of a lar«e sum of money which her father re ceived a few days before the tragedy oc curred."

The usual weekly meeting of St. James' Association takea placa to-night at the Session House, St. James' Hall, when a lecture on "Tho Political Destiny of the Australasian Colonies " will be delivered by Mr E. W. Burton. The subject will, with out doubt, prove highly interesting, and especially to thoso colonists who are of a speculative turn of ; mind. It has also this special attraction iv it, namely, that it is handled by a nativo born Australian, and one of those, therefore, who must be more deeply interested in Australasia's destiny than one from tho mother country. The lecture ought to lead to a most interesting discussion, and it may safely bo asaumed that there will be much diversity of opinion as to the conclusions arrived at by tho lecturer. Members aro requested to be in their places at 730 p.m. sharp, at which time the business will commence. The public are also invited, and special pro vision has been made for tho accommoda tion of ladies.

A man named John Wilson was brought up this morning on a charge of extorting money from persons in outlying places by means of threats, and iv this way ho obtained money from several peisonß in the neighbourhood of Mount Eden. Ho called upon Mrs Nairn, and said ho was in distress and had just landed penniless from Levuka. She gave him food and finding there was no man in the house, tho sneaking coward threatened to knock her down if she did not give him money She gave him a shilling. The follow went to other houses with a similar talc, won a like sympathy, and then lifted his Btick with a threat. The facts fortunatoly reached Constable Clark at Newton station, who found the idler among the bushes, and escorted him to the Police station. Wilson is a powerful man, but evidently an opponent of honest toil, with his character clearly written on his features. Wo understand that other charges arc pending and will most likely be urged against him on Wednesday, anil if proved, a tew months at stonc-broaking may bo of physical if not of moral advan tage to him.

North Shoro on Saturday last was viaitod by a considerable number of Auckland's denizens. Tho weather wiis delightful and all that could bo wished for. In tho after noon Flagstiff hill was enlivened with tho proßOtico of a lariro innnbor of harmless, playful schoolgirls who had bo«u allowed to leave tho solitude of thoir prison-house in order to enjoy tho froshoniug breeze, etc., in company with thoir respective demuro and would-bo fractious monitors. Tho popular and favourite rolroat is certainly going ahead, and promises at no distant date to bo a place of no mean im portance. Tho attention of tho Forry Company should certainly bo drawn to tho daily complaint of tho now constant habit of persons junipiug off boats on to tho land ing-placo bctoro tho vesael is stationary. A notice posted up in tho waiting-room warning that all persons found leaving tho bouts before thoy aro alongside wilt be heavily lined would havo a salutary oiled,

" O. Ilowson " sends a letter in which he expresses the opinion that homes for out cast children aro very doubtful blessings anywhere, Ho observes: 'i'oo often, especially in the Old Country, tho thing becomes a mero uioney-mukincr concern. I myself have been a teacher for about n year and a-hulf in a Homo presided over by the Roy. T. B. Stephoon iv London, and am well acquainted with ugood many cases which eutered tho Homo during my stay at one of tho branches. For instance, William Cheshire, a lad whose father was a builder and engineer in tho town of Dunstablo and well-to-do in life, was an inmate, and his father was paying the governor twenty pounds per year, of which £10 did not go in to the funds for tho sup port of tho borne. Now, if that is charity, what is the world coming to. In conclusion allow mo to stato that I was only once reproved boforo my class for uot holding the same doctrine as tho governor, he being a Wcsloyan, aud I believed in a condition of immortality. This I call persecution iv a small way, on which account I left on the 12th of July."

Alfred Grey, who has visited tho scene of the late disastrous iiro at Messrs Ireland Brothers, Punmure, writes expressing sur prise that, considering the large amount of stock—£2o,ooo —which has boon destroyed, entailing heavy claims on many insurance ollicen, soino better provision for water ac commodation had uot been made prior to the fire. Ho says :—" For something like £500 a large tank capable of holding, say, half a million gallons of water, could have been supplied. Had this been done, the linn would probably havo saved a consider able portion, if not noarly all, of their pro perty. Although tho firo alarm bell rung out at the dend of night and assiduous as sistance in all directions wub forthcoming, the whole wero unable to .s»vo anything from the fury of the flames on account of lack of water, and were consequently com pelled to stand with folded arms aud allow the lire to uocompli.sh its doitructivo course. This catastrophe should prove a warning to those persoiiH whoso premises are some dis tance from tho city, and who may uot bo supplied with water accommodation. This, as Paul Richter says, is tho norrow which appears to havo killed a good many who luve lost property by firo on the outskirts of tho city. The firo at Pttnmuro is tho more to bo deplored when it is considered that through the destruction of the building a largo number of persons are thrown out of cmploymont."

Mr E. B. Dickson roports on tho weather for the week ending 9th April : — Since the gale of Saturday and Sumlay the weather has been blight, warm, and dry, with light wiud aud high barometer. Barometric mean, 30.015 (mean of April for 17 yearn, 30.056), falling ou Sunday (3rd), about 2 30 p.m., to 29.G98 ; thence rising rather slowly but steadily to 30.260 on Saturday morning (9th). Mean tomperature, 63.6 (mean of April for 17 years, 61.8). Warmest day, Thursday (7th), 73.6 in the shade, 84 0 in sun. Coldest night: In shade (Wednesday, 6th), 51.2 ; on grass (Friday, Bth), 45.6, the extreme range between day and night tern, peratures on Friday and night following be ing 20J degree!'. On Saturday night and Sunday morning short but heavy gale from V.K. and N., with violent showers, aud much distant thunder about 2 30 p.m. of the latter day. Rain about 1-tonth of an inch during the night, 3J-tenths more on Sun day morning, and a little on Monday night makes up a total of half an inch tor the week. Sinco then very dry. Wind was blowing a strong gale on Saturday night and until about 2p.m. on Sunday, when it died off entirely. Observed rato at 9 a.m., 31i miles: and average of 24 hours pre vious, 255. Since then often very light, moving round from W. to 8. and S.E. Sky for last four days very clear and bright, almost cloudless.

A series of lectures under the auspices of tho Orange Institution has been arranced, and the iirst was delivered by the Yen. Archdeacon Maonsel last night, in the Newton Hall. The building was crowded. The Rev. T. W. Dunn, Grand Master of tho Lodge, occupied tho chair, aud was supported by othor members of the Grand Lodge. The subject selected by Dr. Maunsell was " Tho wor ship of the Virgin Mary." He opened by disclaiming any desire to excite irritable feelings, and hoped any Roman Catholic hearers who might be present would search the Scriptures and test the doctrines of their Church by that Btandard. The rev. gcntlaman took as his text the passage in St. John—" Woman what havo I to do with thee V and in tho course of his remarks quoted several passages in which Christ spoke of His mother in terms which wcro irreconcileblewith the position which was claimed for her by the Roman Catholic Church, On one occasion, when informed that His mother waited without to see Him. He answered, " Who is My mother, and who are My brethren. Ou another occasion it was said by a certain woman, " Blessed is the womb that bore Theo and tho paps which Thou has sucked," but Christ re plied, " Yea, rather blessod arc they that hear tho Word of God and keep it." Jesus, after His crucifixion, appeared ten times to His disciples, but not to Hia mother, although He mado hinißelf known to Mary Magdalene. The mother of Jesus appeared to have dropped completely out of sacred history without appearing to have hud any special function or sphere in the Christian Church. He thought the reason was obvious, and was the same which led to the secret burial iof Moses—to prevent idolatry. The rev. ; lecturer then gave various parallels from Jewish history, and then went on to < quote from Roman Catholic works attri butes and titles applied to the Virgin, which were identical with those applied to God and Christ, and could only be properly ad dressed to the Supreme Being. He warned his hearers against such a worship, which, he said, implied idolatory and blasphemy, The Rev. T. W. Dunn announced tor next Sunday, a lecture by himself, on " Popery in Relation to Infidelity," aud said that on the succeeding Sunday evening the Rev. Mr Tebbs would give the third of the series on "1 he Seven Sacraments."

CRIMINAL SESSIONS.

(BY TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRESPONDENT),

DUNEDIN, this day. The following sentences were passed on prisoners pleading guilty :—James Mack, for larceny, two years; Henry Potter, larceny, two years; William Everest, Borough clerk, Hampden, embezzlement, two years. Tho case of Paget, post-office clerk, will occupy the whole day. THE MAGISTRATE AND THE BAR. Before commencing tho proceedings to day, Mr Simpson, addressing the bar, inti mated his intention to commit for contempt auy practitioner guilty of interrupting or delaying the Court as it had boon delayed lately,

SCINTILLAIIONS.

"Be brier; for lc la irltn words aa with aun boame: tho mora they are condensed the doopor they burn."—SouTiiKy. Lord Lyttleton says: Women, Jiko princes, find few real friends. Shakespeare : There's beggary in tho lovo that can bo reckoned. Fourthouoand German Socialists attended a recent mass meeting at Boston, United States. A gale unparalleled at St. John's, New Brunswick, on March Ist, destroyed overy boat iv harbour. The galo was tho worst for GO yours. In order to test tho capabilities of a new cook about to bo engaged by tho Princo of Wales, His Koyal Highness gavo a dinner to a select party of goutlomou nt a West end club a few days ago, wheu each ono was requested to write his opinion of tbo feast on tho back of tho rndnu-card placed besido his plate. The result of the vote was unfavourable to tho aspiring candidate. Professor Kirk, F.L.S., formorly of Auck land and lately of Wellington College, has been appointed lecturer on Natural History to Chriatchurch College at £450 a year and foes, A Froothought Sunday-school was oponed yesterday afternoon under tho nviHpices of tho Froothought Association of Duncdin. Two huudred wore present. Our cablegrams to-d»y roport moro Boer ravages in Transvaal. An Atlantic cable despatch says : " Dr. Harbor and Dr. L»yas, whilo being escorted from tho Tninarnal to tlio Orango Froo State, wore lirod upon by their Uoer escort* after they had reached tho Frco State. Dr. Barber was killed and Dr. Dyas was wounded. The ail'air was similar to tlio murder of Captain Elliott."

POLICE COURT.-This day.

(Before It, C. Barstow, Esq., K.M.) BHAKBBS, Five portons were puniahed for drunken ness. KMJIKMUNU CAltdO. Thirteen seamen wcro chargod with cm hcz/AiuK cuix'o on board the British ship Oxford, on the high sens, on hor paatago from London to Auckland, tho property of Captain Braddiek. Mr Laiahloy appeared for prisoners and pleaded not j^m 1 t.y. Mr Tardy applied thut tho cases might bo renunded until Saturday. Mr Laishloy said ho believed that thero was no evidence showing that ono of tho prisoners, Wm. Gray, hud auything to do with thi) broaching of the cargo, lie would ask, also, that several wituosseo for the de fence, uud who were in Court, might bo re quested to appear on tho day to which the cases infill bo adjourned, Tin: witnesses were called and promised to attend on Saturday next, to which day tile CUBQ3 weie adjourned. ATTKMIT TO EXTORT MONEY. John Wilson was charged with attompt im' to extort money from persons, by menace, on tho — inst. Mr Pardy said this was a case which ouiiht to be dealt with very scveroly, as it was not a military oil'cuce on the part of tho accused. His Worship asked if it was intended to treat this as an indictable oil'cuce, us it wus so vaguely stated on tho charge sheet. The prisouer was chargoU under tho Lar ceny Act. Mr P»rdy said the prisoner had boon in tho habit of selocting solitary houses, and when he found only a woman in jba house, he would use threats and obtain money from tho frightened inmates. Tho cusc was adjourned until tho 13th inst., wbou the witnesses would bo in at tendance. CIIAUGH OF LIBBU John Dickson Wicklmm wan charged that hediil on or about the 26th day of Mnrch lust at Auckland, unlawfully, tnalioioußly writs mint, and publish, a certain iulso, scaudu loui, malicious, nnd.dcfamatory libel of and eoncorning William Leo Kces, in a certain newspaper, called the " Auckland Free Lance aud Business Advertiser," the faid libel being contained in an article in the said paper commencing as follows " months ugo wo warned Mr U. M. Kccd and tho HrlfuHt Emigrants a^aiuat dealing with Mr W. L, liees for laud for a special settle merit, &c" Mr A. E. Whitakcr appeared iv dofenco, mid pleaded not guilty. Mr Tyler appeared for Mr Kees, Mr A. K. WhiUker asked for a remand for a week, being altogether unprepared with the defenco, as Mr Wiekham only received tho .summons on Saturday night. Mr Tyler did not soe tho necessity for au adjournment aud defendant h»d come specially from Gisborne. His Worship said he could not possibly hear the case to-day, nor yet for some time to come, as his hands were completely full.

Mr Tyler said he hoped His Worship would grant a reasonable adjournment. This was only one of a series of libels which had been carried on tor some months, and it was time- that a stop was put to them. Mr WhiUker asked for au adjournment until Wednesday week.

Mr Tyler considered this was unreason able, as it would only take a few hours to get up a defence. After some further consideration, the hearing of this cisc wa? adjourned until Thursday, the 14th instant,

CRICKET MATCHES.

WKST END V. ONKHUNGA.

WKBT BlfD.

First Innings. Second Innings. Banfleld, b Muhonoy 4 bB. Mahonoy .. 0 Lewis, b Donovan .. 0 not out .. ..20 Mucky, at S. Muhonoy 9 bS. Muhoney .. 0 luutoe, o Donovan .. 0 hit wloket .. .. 0 Henna, b Donovan .. 7 to bat Borry, b Donovan .. 1 b Boavers .. .. 0 Wallace b Mahonoy A bB. Mahonoy _ 2 Courtayne, to Mahonoy 0 b Leahy .. .. 0 Sim inn, nt rf. Muhonoy 0 not out _ .. 0 Chapman, lbw.. .. 3 to bat Limmdou, not oat ~ 0 to bat Extras i Widos .. .. i Total .. .. 32 Total .. .. 30 ONKHUNGA. Barr, b Macky.. .. 8 Harris, not out „ 2 S. Mahoncy, b Maoky 0 Cnllon, rnn out ~ 0 T. Mahonoy, b Muoky 0 Blssot, hit wlokot 1 Donovan, run out .. 15 Jackson, b Isaacs 0 Beavore, o Sirams _ i Kxtras .. 6 1 ealiy, o wallaoo ..3 _ Moonoy, b Isoac3 .. 0 Total .. .. 36 UNITKD V. ALPHA SECOND KLKVENS. United. Alpha. Flret Innlnßß. First Innings. Jorvls, b Ktlpatrlck 7 Jaokeon, b Jontaaon 11 Dono, 0 Jackson _11 HaybJarris,. .. 5 HarrinKton 0 Ciioner, b Johnson 0 L&nklmm, »t Whlto 3> MoDormott _ .. 0 Sliot», o Frost .. .. i Frost, b Johnson .. 2 JohnHon.bKUpatrlttk; IB Kilpatrlok,b Jarvls 3 George, b Kilpalrlok 0 J. Gflor«e. o Cranoh 10 Kd wards, bKllpatriclc 13 'I hwaltes, not oat .. 1 Johnson, c Cranoh 11 Kxtras .. .. _ 2 Extras i Total 121 Total 25 A. CLARK AND SONS V. W. MO ARTHUR. Tho above match was played in the Domain on Saturday, and resulted in an easy victory for A. Clark & Sons, who won by an innings and 36 runs. McGechio (37), Brown (30), Macky (27), and Reid (17) were tho principal scorers for the winners. Kobinson, of whom much was expected,was unfortunately bowled off his pads after scoring 1. For the losers Woods made 0 in tho first and 37 in the second innings, Subjoined are the scores. j A. Clark and Sons. Maoky, o Beavsn .. 27 Rf id, b Brown ..17 MoSechie, b Brown 37 Kobinson, b Woods 2 W.Kobinaon.bTalbot 1 Anderson, b Woods fi Brown, b Brown ..30 Qllohrlst, not out 1 Walker, o Mitchell., 0 Extras .. "3 Col«an, b Brown ..8 ' Rees, 0 Banbury .. 1 Total .. .. 132 W. MoABTHUR AND 00. Firßt Innints. Socond Innings Beavan.bMcGeohlo.. 0 b Gilr.hrist.. .. 1 'lalbot, b MoGoohio .. 1 bMoGeohlo 2 Woods, c Kobinson .. !) b Hold 87 Mitchell, 0 Keid _0 b McQoohie ' 11 Brown, b MoGochle.. 1 substitute st Reid' 5 Banburv, b MoGechlo 0 b Reid .. 3 Taylor, lbw .. .. i bColgan .. v K. Woods, b McGechie 0 run out .. .3 Lewis, b Colgan .. 0 bColgan .. .'0 Fisher, not out.. .. i bßeld .. j Woollams, run out _ 1 not out .. '2 Kxtras .. ..1 Kxtras.. .. fi Total .. .. 21 Total.. :75

The first of a scries of evangelistic addresses will be delivered this evening, at 7.30, by the Key. Charles M. Pym, in the lecture hall of the Young Men's Christian Association, and not in iiorne-street Hull, as was inadverteutly announced in Saturday night's paper. ,

THE AUCKLAND SOCIETY OF ARTS EXHIBITION.

If numbers can bo taken as a criterion of a love of the fine arts in this city, then, judging from tho crowd at the artists exhibitionon Saturday evening, there is hope for our local artists ; and it this love can only become fashioneble, or " the thing to do," as poor Albert Smith was wont to say, every homo in Auckland will become a home of taste. It was interesting on Satur day to loiter among the people aud listen to their criticisms on the pictures, some of course, very crude, but still evidencing a desire not to appear ignorant of beautiful impressions. It was equally amusing to watch several of the artists with anxiety like light and shade on ther faces, drawing attention to this and that, aud using the words of Hamlet desiring their friends to "look on this picture and on that," whilo Mr Impey's band lent enchantment to the scene. The Committee, in order to enhance the interest of the Exhibition, engaged the vocal services of Mr Gordon Gooch and Mrs Kevitt, who sang several songs. The former with his iine bam voice gave " If Doubty Deeds my .Lady Please " and. the "Tar's Farewell" in a spirited and wol come manner, while Mrs Revitt warbled tho touching ballad " Sing me an English Song" and tho modern e/toion "Thy Face" with much acceptance. These sweet productions of the past aud present wero appropriate, and moved a feeling of delight, resulting in due ap plause. Mr Impey's band performed several familiar airs iv harmonious style. In an Exhibition so full af pictures aud presentations in needle and Wax work, it becomes a task to notice everything, and compliment overy worker in the fields of fancy and art, aud some inconvenience was experienced in finding some of those named in the latter pages of the catalogue, as they wero not methodically placed or .numbered in consecutive order. Wo can excuse the committee howeyor, as many of the pictures wero hastily hung, and subsequently num bered. A Borios of loaned pictures by a modest arti9t, "S.O,"cauaodapersonto re claim "Odearl" These were chiefly illusti a tions of the Scottish town of Sterling and surrounding scenery. Tho Brattling Burn (287), "Sterling" (288), a poet's cottage (291) and the old bridge of the town (292) woro historically intereuting. The Forth on which this ancient town is built is also shown. Tho old stone bridge of tho paint ing still exists like a memory of hoar antiquity, although a new ono has btou buijt about fifty yards down the river. A curiosity ".Ruben's Mother," if it be the work of tho great painter of Cologne, must be a work of groat value, and necessarily treasured us such by tho Rev. Allen Webb. In the catalogue, however, the namo of tho painter is printed Reuhen'H twice. The " Castle of Ghillon" by Burroughs, has ita singular history, and is interesting in connection with tho poem on tho subject by Lord Byron. A portrait of Mr Albin Martin, by Linnell, when tho sitter was a young man, possesses local valuo, ulso in showing the pilfering charac ter of titno ; it is further interesting in showing the dross of young men of fifty years ago. Several chalk drawings by Linnell indicate the artist-hand. The only picture in tho exhibition by Herring, was lent by Bishop Cowic, pourtraying a group of horses in that ouco popular artist's natural style. Two paintings by Kcv. P. Walsh, tho illustrator of Miss Peucocke's poem*, arc uot without merit. Thoy represent a view of Mount Eginont and " High and Low Life." A pencil drawing by Mrs Austin is vory creditable representing "Beatrice," the heroino ot Shelley's tragedy, the "Cenci," founded on a terrible story learnt by the poet when in Rome; an account of which forms an introduction to Shelley's dramatic poem. Tho original painting was by Guido. Mrs Austin has shown considerable skill in delineating tho passions which swayed the mind of that unfortunate woman, who was as unhappy in the circum stances of her life, as she was beautiful iv her person. According to tradition and Guido's portrait, aud in tho language of of Shelly. "Beatrice" "was one of the loveliest specimeus of the workmanship of nature." Wo should mention that Rev. A. W. Webb lends a ltcnibraudt, "Judas casting down the money," " Waiting for tho Master," and several others apparently by members of Mr Webb's family. Mr L. I). Nathan's Samuel prajiug, after Sir Joshua Reynold*! (painter's na.ue omitted), is an excellent copy of tho original. Two paintings lent by Mrs Shera, which belonged to the late Col. Balneavis, are specially valuable in connection with the New Zea land wars of former years. Thoy arc res pectively numbered 236 and 297. The exquisite needlework by ladies naturally attracts tho attention of ladiest, who pause to inspect tho applique kerchief and other contributions by Miss Roso Keesing, the rich»atin bracket, clomatis and convolvulus, by Miss S. K. Keesing; the Drape, in crewel work, by ML«s fine; the tables by Mrs J. M. Clark; tho raised woolwork by Mi's It. K. Graham; tho cabinet of coral by Mrs ; the nnmcrous clay models by Mr Boyd, of Ponsonby, spocimons of ornamental pottery by Mr Geo. Carder ; and the excellent ex hibits b/ Mrs Browne, Miss Anstoy, Mias Fisher, Miss Barstow, and sevtral ladies of Wellington. Tho committoo have ro»ohed to keep opon tho exhibition until nine o'clock this evening, and desire to thank M; Impcy and his band of musicians, also Mrs liovitt aud Mr Gooch, for thoir sotvice-«.

THEATRE ROYAL.

"MARTHA."

Tub announcement of " Martha" for Saturday evening prored sufficient to ensure a good house. The work is one of the most successful of light operas, and since its first presentation in 1858, it has not only main tained a prominent place upon the British jyric st»ce, but it has also advancod rapidly in the estimation of the continental " dilett anti." It has oipocial claims upon the sympathy and interest of Englishmen. The scenes it depicts and the characters it illus trates are borrowed from the halcyon times of good Queen Anne, and thcto are associ ated with it such an infectious mirthfulness and innocent jollity that the listener can hardly resist its subtle fascinations. It does not carry the judgment by storm but it has an insinuating manner of working upon the feelings which is nono tholesscffec live in favourably determinirg the opinion of tho listener. With tho barest apology for plot or dramatic constructireness, it yet manages by means of simplo and agreeable situations, and the sparkling and jocund character of tho music, lo sustain the atten tion from opening to close,while the impres sionit leavos behind isattosted by thefacility with which even the uncultured and care loss listener will " pick up " and reproduce the leading nirs. Tho music of " Martha " has won its way long ago to the popular heart, and tor weeks after each performance of the opera the gsniins may bo heard attempting to discourse upon IMaturo's own flute the selections which have commendod themselves to their oars. In this respect "Martha" only confesses inferiority to " Maritana." vi Saturday night's performance wo can only speak in qualified terms. In tho first place the cast was hardly so good a<s the resources of the company will permit. Signor Biauchi, as Lionel, was prevented, we presume, by hia imperfect knowledge of English from entoriug iato the spirit of the pioce, and his singing though excellent in some passages yet admitted of docidod im provement in others. In his acting thero was an utter absence of warmth or vieour, and one iguoring tho surroundings for a moment, might easily have imagined him a melancholy and dyspeptic young nobleman, rather than a lusty light-hearted scion of English yeomanry. His manner, enuncia tion aud want of animation,however, mili tated against him from the first, and tho general feeling, so far as he is concerned, was one of unconcealed disappoint ment. Mr St. Clair was more at homo in hia part and the result was a good impersonation. As Lady Harriet, Madame Fanny Simonsen displayed the range of her versatility. Although possessed of a mat ronly figure, that drawback was almost hiddou by her successful assumption of the archness of youth, by her characteristic mobility, and by her unquestioned vocal abilities. She was the life of the situations in which she appeared, and her singing never failed to gain the marked approval of the andience, while in "The Lastltose of Summer" Bhe ovoked such a burst of en thusiastic applause that in deference to the popular wish,a part o( it had to be repeated. This was the most effectivo number in the whole opera. Miss Carry Godfrey made a very fair Nancy, and sang the music incidental to her part with acceptance, while Mr Wentworth proved a satisfactory Sir Trietram. There was a noticeable un steadiness about one or two of the chorusus, and a quartette was marred by the same cause. This defect was more apparent at the commencement, for after the orchestra had asserted tho rhythm of tho music the performers managed to coirect it, and to regain their balance. The charm of the airs veiled to some extent these shortcom ings, and the tact of the conductor avoided a failure. Taking the performance as a whole it may bo pronounced a very fair

one, while the execution of several passages deserves much more commendatory men tion. The instrumentation was really excellent, Verdi's grand tragic opera, "11 Trovatorc" will bo produced to-night, on which occasion Miss Leonora Simonsen and Signor Luisette will make their debut here.

CABLEGRAMS.

[Retjter's Telegrams,] ) BSADLAUOH RE-ELECTED. LONDON, April 9. Bradlaugh has been re-elected for Northampton. PARIS, April 9. THE DIFFICULTY IN TUNIS. Diplomatic correspondence continues be tween the French and Italian Governments on the Tunisian question, and it has trans pired that the French Government has in its last communication disavowed any iuten tion to annex Tunis, hut firmly insists that French inilucnco shall preponderate in the Principality. PAKLIAMENT ADJOURNED. LONDON, April 8. Parliament adjourned to-day to April 25th for the Easter Recess. FRENCH TROOPS FOX TUNIS. PAWS, April 8. Telegrams have been received from Algeira, announcing that the 10,000 troops dispatched from France, in view of the difficulty in Tunis, have been landed at Bona. a seaport on the Algerian coast, near the Tuuisian frontier. PEREMPTORY NOTE TO GIiEECE. CONSTANTINOPLE, April 8. The envoys of tho powers to the Porte have had under consideration the circular recently issued by the Greek Government, . justifying its refusal of the offer made by i Turkey for the settlement of the frontier . difficulty. In reply tho ambassadors have i sent a circular note to the Hellenic Govern . ment peremptorily notifying aa a final . decision, that it lim been determined that [ tho extended Greek frontier shall alone con t sist ot the provinces of Thessaly, with a I strip of country in the South of Epirus, in- I eluding the town nf Previsa, on the North iem shore of the Gulf of Arata. The note i adds, however, that it has been agreed that . the fortress of Prcvisa may bo dismantled • by Turkey before being surrendered, i DUKE OF ARGYLE'S SUCCESSOR. LONDON, April 8. Lord Carlingford (formerly Mr Cbichester ,' Fortescuo) succeeds the Duke of Argylo as Lord ot tho Privy Seal. CENSURE ON GLADSTONE GOVERN MENT. LONDON, April 8. Sir Michael Bicks-Beachhasgiveu notice in the House of Commons of a motion censuring tho Government for its settlement of the Transvaal difficulty. MONETARY AND COMMERCIAL. LONDON, April 8. The total quantity of wheat afloat for Great Britain is 2,430,000 quarters. LONDON, April 8. Consols are 100 J. 4£ per cent. New Zea land Loan has advanced to 98; the 5 per cent. 10-40 loan remains at 102J, and the 5 per cent. 1889 loan, at 10*0. Tho best Australian beef tallow has risen to 34s per cwt., aud tho best mutton unchanged at 3(is Gd. Best Australian leather has advanced \i, and to-day is quoted at lOjd per lb. THE BOICKS PLUNDERING. LONDON, April 6. The Boers arc plundering the in habitants of Transvaal, who, during the recent war, roniained loyal to the British Crown, Twelve new Baronets have been created in tho County. Cork has boen proclaimed a "proscribed district" under tho provisions of the Coercion Act. Mr Powell, Conservative member for Wigan, who was elected in January last, in the room of Lord Lindsay, has been unseated on petition. Conflicts have taken place between the Freuch and the people of Tanin, adjoining the French settlement iv Algiers, where fighting occurred. A number of combatants were killed. SIXTY FRENCHMEN POISONED. The French expedition which has boen formed for the purposo of carrying into oporation the scheme for the railway across tho desert of Sahara to Timbuctoo has met with a serious disaster. The native treacherously administered to the party a deadly poison, from the effects of which sixty died. THE BRITISH CASUALTIES AT POTCHESFTROOM. LONDON, March 29. The casualties and losses of the besieged garrison at Potchesftroom amounted to 1,100 of all ranks. The scantiness of Jood was the cause of the "garrison being com pelled to surrender to the Boers. THE BASUTO WAR. Several indecisive skirmishes have taken place between tbe Basutos and the local forces at Mascrn. Major Lawrence has been killed at Berida. Tho Rasutos are entrenched at Balken, aud a battle is imminent. A MELBOURNE NABOB. The will of William Moore Bell, late of Firebanks Bros., Bell, and Company, of Melbourne, has been proved at £100,000. The doceased loaves a Bum of £250 each to cloven Melbourne charities. The will of Sir Wni. Parker, formerly Colonial Secre tary of Now South Wales, has been proved for £141,000. The case of Lawsm v. Labouchere has resulted in tho jury being unable to agree, aud has been discharged. THE SOCIALIST PROSECUTION. irir Vernon Horcourt, Home Secretary, repudiates the suggestion that he has been investigated by Foreign States to prosecute the editor of the Socialist paper, " Die Frichit." THE METROPOLITAN POLICE. Instructions have been given to largely increase the numbers ot tho metropolitan police force, and in view of the arduous and dangorous nature of their duties, it has been deemed advisable to arm them with more effective weapons. Tho harvest prospects in America are considered most satisfactory, It is antici pated that the yield of wheat this season will be unusually larg*. FEDERATION IN AUSTRALIA. The Pall Mall Gazette contains a leading article advocating the federation of the Australian colonies into one dominion after} the model of Canada, pointing out that Australia would at onco asaurne the position in the eyos of the world of a powerful and growing nation. Tho writer, howover. admits that the difficulties in the way of union among tho colonies are now too great, owing to the differences of the fiscal policy and local jealousies, to permit of federation for some time to come. SOCIALISM IN GERMANY. The spread of Socialism iv Germany is causing much alarm to the authorities not only in the largo towns but the country dis tricts. Thoro are manifold signs of the doctrines baring taken deep root deepito tho repressive legislation. Tho chancellor proposes to resort to the most severo and drastic measures in order to stamp out socialism. THE WAR IN GREECE. Notwithstanding the efforts ot the Powers to bring about an amicable settlement of the Turko-Greece difficulty, it ii generally believed that war will be the only outcome. The Greeks are greatly excited, and dis play the utmost military enthusiasm. It is rumoured that the Turkish proposal will be refused, and that the Greek army will cross the frontier on the 6th of April. SEVERE WEATHER IN EUROPE. The latest advices phew that tha weather throughout Europe has been very severe. In Hungary great damage has besn caused by the inundation, the result of the over flow of swollen rivers. Iv Spain a'so i here have been most disastrous floods iv Seville and ita neighbourhood ; especially has such losses been occasioned by the overflow of the Guadalquiver, many of the inhabitants being rendered homelass. From the United Slates, reports of very bad weather have come. The State of Missomi has suffered severely, extensive floods having been caused iv the Missouri and Mississippi both of which have overflowed their banks'

AUSTRALIAN.

SYDNEY, Monday. Arrived : Australia, from Auckland, oa Saturday. '

HAWKESBUEY HANDICAP. Thei Hawkesbury Autumn Handicap was won by The Barber, with Major second and Falmouth third. The Marquis de Kay's immigrants have been housed in the Agricultural Hall, U ie Domain bmldiogs having been hired for the

Tl Ar . M*F£OURNE, Monday, riic Mnrqius of Normanby is daily im- SoZ^f 116'^ 11 alld makin R satisfactory progress towards recovery.

THE DETRACTORS OF NEW ZEALAND.

We have received a letter from R. Lathropa relative to his libels on the colony pub lished in London " Truth." Though there is nothing in tho letter entitling it to publu cation, we give it in full for the purposo of shewing all the vindication which this man. has to offer for his infamous slanders. His impudence iv villifying tho colony and ita people after a residence of a few months is only equalled by his present communication reiterating his former untruths, and in. siuuating that the reason be cannot instance a case of starvation in New Zealand is only because the press of tho colony is banded together to suppress such records. Iha man knows full well that his statement is a villainous libel both on the well-cslabishcd private generosity of tho colonists, and on our public institu tions. He asserted in his letter to "Truth" that immigrants brought to the colony were unable to obtain employment and were left "To die like sheep on the roadside, as tbero is no such place a 3 a workhouse to go into." And yet when he wrote that sentence, he must have known its falsehood, for he experienced personally the kindness and solicitude with which the Government look after their immigrants. Instead of landing, as other immigrants land.straugcrs in a strange place resolved to push their own way, thete people are re ceived by a duly appointed Government officer, they are escorted to comfortable barracks, provided with rations, and as. sisted in every way to obtain employment. The workhouses, the loss of which appears to cause our correspondent such deep regret, do not, it is true, exist. Happily the colony has never found any need of them, and we hope never will. But there is au active system of Government outdoor relief for the deserving poor, there ara hospitals for the sick, free education for all classes of the community, and hundreds of channels by which private benevolence reaches the unfortunate. It is impossible for a man to starve in New Zealand, unlesa he does so wilfully, or from unavoidable mishap. It. Lathrope knows this very well and|yet he hopes, we suppose, to cover his first lie by sending home the second one Unluckily for New Zealand the chsractcra which emigration agents in Knglsnd are supposed to procure have been little or no protection to the colony against an un suitable class of immigrants. It is notorious that the inmates of more than one English. and Irish workhouse have been foisted upon the colony with most excellent characters from the guardians interested in ridding themselves of .the burden. Colonists object to the payment per head system for agency quite as much ja Mr Lathrope can do, and for that reason it has been stopped. Facts speak better than words and the fact that this year, after excluding all receipts from the sale of Crown Lands, and reducing the public works expenditure to a mete trifle, there will be ample revenue for the whole |of the colonial liabilities and expenses of Government is the best proof of the pros. p'erity and financial soundness of New Zealand. The letter by Mr F. Lawry, whose active sympathy with the working classes is well-known, and whose businesa makes him thoroughly well-acquainted with the agricultural condition of the country, offers an unanswerable reply to tho other allegations contained in R. Lathrope's original slander and attempted reiteration. We append the letter received to-day :— " Slß,—Se.eing in your leading article of Saturday.the 9th inst.,that you upbraid mo for sending tho truth (by saying it was false) to "Truth," and also you state that the New Zealand Government have im ported into the colony bad bargains, as you term some (if not all) of the unfortunate unemployed. "I beg to state that previous to the New Zealand Government immigra ting, any person from the United Kingdon, they must obtain characters (which I havo in my posieision for honesty, Bobriety, and industry) from their last employer and the clergyman of the parish they reside in, also for two or more respectable house holders along with a doctor to sign the icquired document before the Hew Zealand Government (after having gulled them) will grant them a free or assisted pasiage to New Zealand. So I cannot see why be cause they cannot get employ out hers (afier looking in vain) that they should be termed bad bargains, as there is no such termapplied tothemin theold country if they cannot get employ; as I myself (still out of employ) am completely tired of walking about, seeking and asking for work (that which I am able to do) and having a wife an! four children to provide for, as well as paying rent. I can assure you, Mr Editor, and others, that I really do not know what we should do if the tradesmen to whom I owo money to for common necessaries of life was to put the screw on: As regards the New Zealand Govern ment (as you remark) being able (if tho Treasury is hot quite bankrupt) to find the money to send me, my wife, and family back to from whence we were gulled, L only wish they, or othirs, would act up to. your suggestions. We would only be too gl*d, aa I am certain I would get employ on my arrival in London. I may here state I have even offered my serrices, and also tried other means in my power, to get a passage back for the purpose of getting away from here, which I have documents in my possession to prove, also what money I had in my possession on arrival hero through my savings at home. I can assure you, Mr Editor, I have had to spend (through waiting for something to turn up) along with other money, I have had to obtain through other sources for the purpose of keeping myself, wife and family from starvation, as out of a possible 13J months in New Zealand I have only been able to obtain about 7 months' work in all, and it is not for the want of looking for, as I am at all times willing to do that work which I am able to do when 1 can get it, as those gentlemen in Auckland can testify to whom I have worked for; and, Mr Editor, in regards of there being no record of an instance of starvation in New Zealand is because some of the newspapers of Now Zealand will not publish the facts, as it then wonld bring more disgrace on New Zealand ; as it would then be made public in tho United Kingdom, and would prevont others from being gulled. By inserting this it will only bo doing justice to—Yours, &c, K. Lathkope.

(To the Editor.)

Sir,—Your leading article of Saturday last must have been the source of pieat satisfaction to yournumiirousreaders, whose entire confidence in the future welfare and advancement of this country has never been shaken. I can, however, in a measure sympathise with the feelings of personal ' disappointment which must have pervaded 1 the mind of Mr Lathropo when he wrote the letter to which your leader referred, because every line of the quotation which you made from it is the manifestation of shattered hopes. lam not going into the questien as to whether tho hopes and aspirations of the writer were well grounded or not, or whether or not he endeavoured to givo them practical effect. I Bimply sympathise with his disappointment, but feel that there can not be too much condemnation poured upon the head of a writer for the press who, in order to give expression to feelings of per i sonal pique, has recourse to such palpable and unmitigated falsehoods as those pub lished in the letter in question, and the journal which published such a letter must be absolutely devoid of thosediscrimiuatingpowerswhicharesomeof the true functions of corroct journalism, or else it should change its designation to the antipodes of "Truth," and strive to secure a modern Annanias to appropriately occupy the editorial chair. Ido not think that a more effective argument could be advanced against the detracting statements of such a class of writers as the one under consideration, than that which bas recently presented itself in the payment of the enor mous Bum of money which has been handed iv to the Treasury in the form of Property Tax. lam convinced that taking all of the surrounding circumstances of the case into consideration, that it has no parallel in the history of the world.

I rcmeinbor th&t my father was once ap« , pointed, by the parish in which he resided, one of the collectors of land assess taxes for the parish, and I venture to assort that I (upon whom the duties devolved) had more actual trouble and worry in collecting from the people of the parish the sum of £10, than the whole of the New Zealand officials have had to receive the £250,000, and it took me a longor time. And we must not forget tbat a very largo uuuiber of the taxpayers here (perhaps a majority) looked upon tho tax as unjust, inquisitorial, anil not demanded by the exigencies of the State, aud yet without the publication of a singla threat for non-pay ment—except soroc« tliiug vaguely stated about an added ten per cent., which nobody supposed would be enforced—the money was carried to the Treasury with a promptitude which will astonish the world, when consideration is taken of the fact that the payment followed 30 closely upon a period of great depression. Whilst the fact that 12,600 tons of grain, or enough to load 12 large teasels, in now lying at oue port in the colony awaiting for shipment, tells itsowu'story of the inherent resources of the country. Many of your readers will exonerate me from egotism when I say that my occupation enables mo to form as accurate an estimate of the state of the settlements of the country(at leas

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAB, MONoAf, APRIL 11.



Why women aiißOßOon, is an interrogatory that answers itself in ' oor knowledge of their natural proclivity to neglect the means of tbnilc ing up their frames. Kntering into the married Btate. or habituated to domestic labours, they trudge and toil, and exhausting their powers, crow callous to the results, and fall into sedentary habita. Unused to buffet with the world, they have nothing to call their activities into play, save within the narrow limits of home, little recking that a rpersistent and judicious uee of Udolplio Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps will tone their systems and fit them for evenlhlgher enterprises than they are wont to espouse. *



Speoial Advertisements. THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. NEW WINTER CLOTHING. Tho Winter Stock just opened at the N. Z. CLOTIIINCt FACTORY. Encourago Colonial Industry and buy at tho N. Z, CLOTHING FACTOEY. Nowost Stylos and Superior Quality at the N. Z, CLOTHING FACTORY. Every Article gives satisfaction bought attbo N. Z. CLOTHING FACTORY, New Zealand Tweods only aro used at the N. Z, CLOTHING FACTORY. NowZoaland labour only employed at the N. Z, CLOTHING FACTORY. All Clothing superior fitting, good quality, and thoroughly shrunk. Auckland Branch : QUEEN-STREET (Opposite Theatre Royal), AND AT Albert-street, Thames. j. fitz9imons, Manager, riARLICK AND URANWELL, \JT COMPLETE HOUSH FURNISHERS. CITY HALL ARCADE, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND, 1 . ( Qauliok and m* CRANWELL'SStOOk " contains a very O extensive ohoico o \Z of Furniture, of °w * EngUsh, Ameri ffifi «£ can, Italian, and ■ 5 Sj Colonial manufao -085 oO <' ture, and is sold at VFURNITURK-( the lowest possible S^Q price consistent «h Scq with durability bZ pq and Rood taate; *q IH and thoy reapeot <) fully lnvlto an ln ij Bpootion of their " Show Rooms from Q those about to fur ) Uiah. ■\ ('A Beautiful Lot of Drawing-room CARPETS, juat ►gjj- landed ex Oxford, cSii most fashlonablo , -u'E-i£s deeiKna, and ccr ai?ital2(Bo* tainly very oholoe. hSSrSS Tho "Worceaior" BSSgpJ-oARPKTS ■iX^'asffl S^X^q^ durable Carpet We"<^Qc3 over made. Tapes -5m5 try Carpets from £M 2s lid. Handsome Borders for Car pets, Hoarthßugs J Vmado to match. /^ARLICK & CR4NWELL keep a VT Largo Stock of Floor Cloths for Halls. Rooms and Offices. Linoleum, ail widths, at lowest priooa. piARLICK & CR AN WELL keop a VjC Great Variety of Austrian Bontwood Furniture, and Amerioan Cane Chairs. Whole sale and Retail. WE allow a DISCOUNT of Five per Cent, on Furniture, Carpets, and Floor cloths, for Cash Payments. BEDDING, all sizes, of our own manu facture, kept ready for Delivery. FIURNITURE, and all other Geods, delivered Kreo in Town, and Book Cata logues sent to intending Furnishers on ap plioation. /^ARLICK & CRANWELL keep an \JT immense assortment of Ibon Bedsteads. FDKNISH YOUR HOUSE From the CITY HALL ARCADE, GARLICK & CRANWELL, Proprietors. Cabinetmakers and Upholsterehs.



]Y EW TJBES /I 0 0 US. WIANTED KNOWN: Q.OOD USEFUL £)RKSS ]y[ATKRIALS AXE BEING SOLD AT HALF PRICE. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAU'S. •la 6d Materials fob 9d. Wo havo bought a largo JOB LOT of tho above, and aro giving oar Customers the benefit. FANCY DRESS MATERIAL In Gkeat Variety. GTAT A HEAVY REDUCTIONS off usual pricoa to Clbak Out During The Ssason. A Fbbsh Lot ov GOOD CHEAP TWKED GOOD CHEAP TWKKD for Boys' Wear «tJust To Hand.-©* 5% Discount (Is In the £) allowed off nil CASH Purchases of 20a and Upwards. "OUSHBROOK & "DRIDGMA.N, DRAPERS & CLOTHIKRS [Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel], Upper Quekn-stbket, Auckland. -rjrr i n k a & pjp al l, HAVE REMOVED FKOM SHOBTLAND-STRKET TO TEMPORARY PREMISES IN FORT STREET, OPPOSITE COCHRANE AND SON'S AUCTION MART, AND WILL (JONTINt'E THEIB CH AP SALE FOE A FEW WEEKS LONGER, TO CLEAB SURPLUS STOCK. [



THEY WILL REMAIN IN FORT-STREET DURING THERE-BUILDING OtfTKEIR WARE BOUSE IN SHOBTLASD-STREET. rri w. hickson, LICENSED SURVEYOR AND LAND BROKER, UNDER LAND TRANSFER ACT, South British Chambers, Auckland. T pOSGRAVE & rtO, Beg to inform the Inhabitants of the City that they hare OPENED THEIR EXTENSIVE SHIPMENTS OF DRAPERY AND CLOTHING. The principal Lines are: Eioh, Block, and Coloured Silks, Satins, and Velvets Black and Coloured Velveteens Kmbona Velveteens Pluahea in all colours Several cases of Millinery, Bonnets, and Hats received from Paris The Newest and Latest Styles In Ladies'and Children's Jackets and Mantles, Ulsters, Dolmans, &c. Choice and Fashionable Dreua Materials in all New Shados and Colours Ladles' and Children's Hosiery, Underclothing and Corsets An Immense Stook of French Merlnoes, Serges, and Wincey b. The Manchester Department CONTAINS THE LARGEST STOCK IN NEW ZEALAND TO CHOOSE FROM. Calicos, Sheetings, Shirtings, Quilts Blankets in all sizes Flannels in all makes, and Cretonnes at all prices. The Clothing Department Is well-known for the Ezoellent Quality of the Goods, the Reasonable Prices Sold at, the Large and Varied Assortment to choose from, tbat it is useless for us to enumerate them. THE GOODS ARE NOW ON VIEW AT J. COSGRAViS & GO.S WHOLESALE AND RETAIL WAREHOUSE, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND.



Speoial Advertisements. JUST RECEIVED AMERICAN LAWN-SPRINKLERS, With Plated Arms. Aleo, LAWN EDGE-C UTTERS, Quito Now E, V 0 X T E R & CO,, QUEKN AND HIGH STREETS pASOLINEI GASOLINE! ON SALE, By tho Undersigned, BEST AMERICAN GASOLINE, Tluco Strong Iron Drums in each Case. WM, DAWSON & CO., Wellington. rriHE Umlenigucri is a I'ukchasek of Bank of Now Zealand Shares National Bank Shares National Mortgago Shares Loan and Mercantile Shares. A. SAUNDERS, 2, INSUKANCK BUILDINGS. THE "COKOMANDEL MAIL" CONTAINS 'I'lIK Lathst and Most Rkliauus Information HenpootliiK tho TIKI and OOROMANDKL GOLDFIKLDS. Parties doeirous of Boourlng ooplos of tho above should rlvo In tholi' namoa at onco to tho Auckland Agent—Mr. X, Way to, Bookseller, Quoon-Btroet. Arrangoinonts arc now complete for a regular delivery ovory Saturday morning. J. H. WITHKITOBD. Coromandol, Maroh 23, 1831.



tr £l Fbkk gifts I—The Proprietors ol Wolfe's Aromatic Schi»dam Schnapps, to inmioo tho destruction and pre»ont tho im proper use of their wrappers and Übels, and thna furtaor protect tho Public afrainst fram and deception, have encloaod in <ho wrappers, or under the label on tho quart bottles, aincn Ist Ootobor, IS7B, and continue toonoloso IK kveuy DAY'S PICKING THKOUO9OUT THR YKAU 'I H X X If £1 O li D IS R 3, which aro drawn upon the undersigned, and which will bo cashed by thorn on presentation. To secure these Gifts, ti.e Publin must bo oareful to ask for, and accent nothing but, tho Genuine Udoi pbo Wolkk s Schnapps, with our name upon the top label, M. Mosa & Co Wynyard Lane, Sydney.



Madame Lotti Wilmot may be consulted each afternoon and evening; with regard to Mosmorism and Spiritualistic Scanoos.—Army and Navy Hotel, UpporQueon-atreet.—[Advt,] As the " Übsevver " is to 1)0 published on Thursday instead of Friday next week, the drawing for tho third series of prizes will take Eluee on Tucadaylinstead of Wednesday evening, y which time ail coupons muet bo to hand.