SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATBRjgfc^&K, 10.12 ! UNSET.-Thlß Eventag, 7.18 <-UN RIBK.-To-Morrow Morning. 4.51 M 'UN'S AQE.-First Qnartor' "th, 7.15 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

LAST evening. ■irgylo, S.S., Crawford, from Whangarei

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVENING. Argyle, •>.?., Crawford, for Whangarei Southern Cross, s.s. Helander, for Napier TO-DAY. Arawata, e.s., Sinclair, for Russell

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

Sydney-City of New York, Wednesday London-Wanganui, loading; Dunloo, loading Levuka—Southern Cross, Wednesday Tannmga-Glenelg, Thursday; Waitaki, Mon-

day Ruseell-lona. Monday Melbourne, via South—Arawata, Thursday Whangarei and Russeil-Waitakl, Wednesday New Plymouth and South—Penguin, Tuesday Whangarei—Argyle, Tuesdays and Fridays Waitaki, Friday

VESSELS EXPECTED.

City ot Now York.'P.M. s.s., from San Francisco, %Vednesdiy Wolverine. H.M.S.. from Sydney, shorty Margaret Galbraith, ship (J,K,UL»,), Irom Lon don; sailed October 29 Oxford, ship. (51.T.L.5.) from London; loading Loch Urr, barque (W.Q.L.K.), from London; palled September 27 „„. — ~ T „„ A. C. de Frietas, barquo (R.F.M.K.), from Lon don, sailed October 24th. T—Jl™.. Sydenham, barquo (J.M.F.Q). trom London; loading . , ~ Peru, barqno, from London: loading l.och Dee, barque, from Linion; loading Beatrice Haverner, barque tJ.Q.C.L ), from New York, sailed Sept. 30 Superior, barque, from New Tiork; sailed Octobsr23 . , . Himalaya, barque (V.T.K.M), from London; sailed November Ocean Ranger, barqnentine, (H.D.Q.L.) from Roderiok Dhn, brigantine, from Dunedin Lyttelton and New York Cabarfeldh, barque (S.Q.M-J-', from Hongkong Fltrt, brigantine (W.L.G.P.), from Levnka Active, brigantine. from Samoa Orwell, brigantine, from the Islands Borealis. brigantine. from Lyttelton Myrtle, brigantine, from Tonga ClansmaD. brigantine. from Melbourne Deflacoe, brigantine. from Melbourne Ethel, brigantine. from Dunedin Bona, sohooner, from South Torea, schooper, from Lyttelton Knergy. schooner, from Noumea Dayspring, mission schooner HV.N.B.M.), from the Islands

F Inwards Coastwise.— Nancy, from Thames; Tokerau, from Mercury Pay; Rangatira, from Barrier; Adab, from Thame3; Bessy, from Kennedy's Bay.

Outwards Coastwise.—Tokerau, for Mer cury Bay; Julia Pryoe. for Russell; Queen, for Hokianga; Bessy, for Kennedy's Bay.

The barquo Chill arrived at London from this port after a passage ot IM days.

The barqno Stag arrived at Adelaide from Kaipara on the 13th tilt.

Theßynois transhipping her copra into the Dnnloo for transhipment to London.

The 5.9. Arawata calls at Whangarei on her trip to htßsell tonight, the Waitaki having been detained at TauraDga.

The brigantlne3 Darcy Pratt and Oamaru are both announced to load at Sydney for this port.

The topsail schooner Advance and cutter Annie leftlLyttelton for Auckland on the 26th nit.

EXPORTS.

Per Southern Cross, for Napier—lß bunches bananas, 30 tins spikes, 12 packages sundries.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

BO'Skix, this day. Arrived: lona, from Auckland, at Sa m. Lvtteltos, this day.

ARRIVAL OF A HOME SHIP,

The N.Z. Company's Phip Otaki, from London, arrived this morning, 105 dajs ont One pas senger and the second stowarddied of consamp tion during the voyage. On December 27th a very farious galo was experienced, during which a heavy sea was shipped, flooding the cabins to a depth of four or five feet The cap tain's cabin was completely wrecked, and most of the contents lost, inclading charts, boots, etc. Captain Daritt, the second officer, and an ap prentice while on the poop had a very narrow escape of being w«shed overboard. The cap tain was severely bruised and ent The carpen ter was also much injured. Port Chalmebs, yesterday. Sailed: Te Aviv for North. Passengers for Auckland:—Mr and Mrs Reed. .Mrs Goodwin, Miss Watson, Messrs A. Harrick and Kelly. For Sydney :—Mr R. N. Doorman. For Levuka :— Miss Taylor. Mklbocese, January i. The departure of the Union Co.'s steamer Tararua for' New Zealand ha 3 been postponed until Saturday noxt

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

DEPARTURE?. Hawea, 5.?.. Kennedy, for South Lalla Rookh, p.s.. Campbell, for Raglan

The B.S. Hawea, which left the Sonth yester day. took the foUowing passengers:—For New Plymouth:—Misses Robertson, Julian, and Newshsw. Messrs Cooper, Garland, Helmore, Brophy, GoMwater, Goimke, Rutunell, C. A. Tobbin, J. IReid. Bennett. D. Lambert. For Nelson ;—Mrs Palmer and son, Messrs Lawry, Commins, Combe?. F. T.'Cheeseman. For Wel lington :-Messre A. and G. Faulkner. For Lyttelton.--Messrs Martin, James WilaoD, A. DeacOD. For HoEitika:— Mr'Davi3.

THE WEATHER.

AS OBSERVED AT TELEGBAPH STATIONS Wedsiskay, Jasuabt 5.

(1) WIND ESTIMATED AS C.-Calm I F. Br.—Fresh Breeze L.-Llght St.—Stormy Br.—Breezo I G.—Gale (2.) ANEROID BAROMETER. (3.) WEATHER ESTIMATED AS B.—Bine sky, bo the at- O.—Overcast.the whole mosphere clear or Bky covered with heavy thick clouds C. — Clouds, passing P.—Passing showers clonds Q. —SqnaUy D.—Drizzling rain It. — ftain, continued F.-Foggy rain G. — Gloomy, dark S.—Snow weather T.—Thander H.—Hail U.-Ugly, threatening L.—Lightning appearauce

COMMERCIAL.

EvestnblStab Offios, Wednesday. Mr R. Arthur held a largo fruit sale;to-day, ex City of Sydney and Albion. The Bale was satisfactory, and well attended. 65 cas^s of ora»ges brought 10s Cd per caso; apples, 5s 6d to 7b 3d; pears, lis to 12s; plums, 7d to Is ld; passion fruit, 7d and 8d per dozen; peaches (half cases). 3s id ; pine apples, 6s !3d to 7a 3d ; cocoanuts, 9s per 100.

CHIEF POST-OFFICE AUCKLAND.

Mails will close as Under ;- Tnw Day. For Whangarei Headß, Whangarei. Manga pai, Russell, and Kawakawa, par Arawata, at I p.m. For Thames, por Rotomahana, at 1.30 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 6.30 p.m. Thursday, 6th instant. For Waiwera, To Kapa, Craigiehurn. and Warkworth, per Roso Casoy, at 10 a.m. For Hokianga, per Rowena, at 11 am. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 3 p.m. Friday, 7th instam. Por s.s. Arawata as follows I— For India, China. Japan, Medltcranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 8 a.m. FoU Gliborne, Napier, Southern Ports, Australian Colonies, and United Kingdom, via Hrindisi, for letters spooially so propaid and aldressed, at 9 a.m. For Walheke and Coromandel, por Coro mandel, at 2.30 p.m. For Whitiaogi, Tairua, Tauranga, and Opotlki, per Gleneig, at 4 p.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 5.30 p in. Monday, 10th Instant. For Taranaki and Southern ports, per Wa:aaka, at 1.15 p.m. Note.-The i st-offlces at Ararimu, Peri waka, and Upper ParneU havo boen closed. Receiving bo^ea havo boen ostahlished at Mr Leslie's Shop, in Upper Parnell, cloired daily at 6.30 a.m. and 12 noon: and at Mr Talbot's snop. in Parnell, cleared daily at 6.3-5 a.m. and 12,5 p.m. l'ost-offlees havo boen opened nt Bucklands Mails will bo closed at chief ofllco daily at 7 p.m.. and will arrivo dally at 6.10 p.m.; atParua mails closing ovory Kriday at 4 p.m., and arriv ing every Tuesday at 9 a m.; at To Mats, mails dosing overv Thursday at 7 P.m., and arriving every Saturday at 0.10 p.m.; and at Victoria Valley, near Mongonni, mai's closing every Mrnday at 1 p.m., and arriving every Saturday at 9 a.m. S. B. 8133, Chief Postmaster.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

January 5, 1831,

Theatre Royal—" Wreck of tho Pinaforo," S p.m.

United Methodist Free Churoh—Scrvlco of Song, 7.39 p m.

Notices to Correspondents.

One Intkrkstkp.—We aro unaware of any hook of cho kind. Norfolk Island wa? takon possession of for Great Britain by Lioutenint King and party iv 1788. In 1790 tho inhabi tants numbered 193, ot whom 191 men and 100 women woro convicts. In 1793 the population had risen to 1,003 persons, nnd owing to the fertility of tho i3land tho sottlers enjoyed great ' prosperity. The settlement was abindon^d in ISOS, and tho sMtlers, mostly emancipists, were removed to Tasmania, and awarded grants of land. In 1826 Norfolk Island was appointed a placo for offenders transported from New Pouth Wales. In 1827 thero was a serious outbreak of prisoners thore. In 1839 Captain J. Wakefield, ot tho 39th Regiment resigned as commandant of tho island, snd was sneceeded by Colonel Mo-issett. In I*l2 a nninber of the convicts piratically seized the supply vessel. " Governor Philip," which, how ever, was afterwards re-captured by the soldiers. InlSi3the Governor of New t'outh Wales visited tbe ishnd with in«trnctions from the Secretary of Sate, and in tho follow ing year (1811) Norfolk I'land was declared ro longer a dependency of New South Wales, tho crratrol being transferred to Tasmania. Major Childs replacod Machonochio as Gover nor. The Pitcairn Islanders, numbering 191 souls. eßtdblished themselves on ihe inland in 1857, being allotted land and supplies, with Imperial instructions that they should be as little Interfered with as possiblo, and their existing social system be maintained.

MARRIAGES.

COWAN- MACKIB.-On December 25th, 1880, at theresideDC3 ol tho bride's father, Hepburn street. James L. li. Cowan, to Agnes SV. Mackie.

LIPSCOMBE-SI\CLAIR.-0n December 25. by the Rev. R. F, Macnicol, Ernest Frederick, second eon ct H. Lipscombo. to Maggie, second daughter of the lato John Sinclair, Auckland.

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

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 5, 1881.

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

The judgment of Chief Justice Pren dergast adverse to claims for compensa tion against a Corporation for street cutting, lias been upheld by the Court of Appeal. Our telegram published last night, announcing this decision, stated that it would save Wellington several thousands of pounds. The ground on which the Court of Appeal has now decided against compensation is by no means a new one. It was urged by Mr J. B. Russell on behalfJof the Corpor ation of Parnell, in the first com pensation case decided jby Mr Justice Gillies. Mr Russell's contention was that no claim would lie against a Corporation for constructing a street upon the permanent level fixed in accordance with law; that a Corporation was only legally liable for altering a fixed level. Mr Gillies over-ruled this objection, while the Chief Justice subsequently decided in an exactly opposite way npon the same facts. It is fortunate, therefore, thao the case has gone to the highest Court in the colony, so that Corporations and claimants are made aware of their exact legal position. The question having been settled in law, its abstract justice will form a proper subject for consideration by Parliament. Assuming that our New Zealand towns had been laid of! on any regular prin ciples, and Corporations had fulfilled their duty by fixing the permanent levels within a reasonable time, there can be no doubt whatever that the bar to compensation would be a strictly equitable one. A person buying land, or building upon land already in his possession, would then have no excuse for failing to take into account the natural level of the street, The price of land is unquestionally regulated by its situation and frontage, and the purchaser of a low-lying or broken allotment, who pays a proportionately low price for the land, cannot reasonably expect the Corporation to make his allotment of equal value with bei <;r and higher priced ones adjoining. He has already received a fair considera tion in the small sum paid for the land. But where a Corporation year by year neglects its duty, where it fails to fix levels, and owners of land are compelled to build at the risk of the future des truction of their properties or let their land and capital lie idle, clearly they are equitable entitled to be reimbursed the actual damage earned to their buildings by the subseqi i; action of the Coporation, which tie owners of property could neither anticipate nor guard against. There is, no doubt, a disposition to make extravagant claims for imaginary injuries, and arbitrations usually go against the corporate body. The public should be protected against demands of this character by clearly defined rules, and the Corporate body ought to ha\e the option of buying the properties at the actual valuation prior to the damage occuring. Should

tho question como be foi o parlia ment some amendment would probably bo made in the law, but meanwhile, after the decision of tho Appeal Court, it is questionable whether any Corporation can legally pay monetary compensa tion toa private person, even whon the claim is admittedly equitable. If tho claimant has no legal right the Corpora tion can scarcely have any valid warrant for appropriating public money to n purpose unauthorised by law and in fact, repugnant to the law, us defined by the highest Court in the Colony.

There is a movement of somo importance on foot amongst the natives in Upper Wai kato ami the Rotorua country. The scheme which forms the basis of this movement is not new or original, but is rather a revival of a plan which was unsuccessfully iutic duccd many yeais ago, and it is at the same time au extension of a system which has beeu in existence for some time past. Many years ago Sir Georgo Grey intro duced a scheme known as the New Insti tutions, providing for the constitution of village ruangas, ormiuaturc councils, some what analogous to the existing European Road Boards, with certain powers of local Government. Tho scheme was unwieldy und unsuitable to the circumstances of the natives, and it was speedily thrown out of gear and rendered unworkable. The native mind wns not ripo for it. They did not possess the requisite administrative talent to make it successful, and when the novelty of playing at the farce of local self government had worn oil' the whole scheme fell to pieces, leaving behind it many evil complications and much soreness. The Land League was practically merged into the King movement, nnd the strength of the organisation was gradually weakened by the inevitable law of supply and demand, the desire of tho Europeans to ex tend settlement, and of the natives to dispose of laud which they could not utilise, Some vestige of the Land League, however, is still in existence in tho Rotorua Native Committee. Latterly there has been a movement amongst a few of the leading chiefs to extend this organisation ia the form of a distinct Maori Parliament, the pro posal being that this body should pass tenta tive measures which should be subject to the appprovol of the Constitutional Legislature of the country. Tor our part wc do not believe that the plan proposed would be likely to lead to any beneficial results. It wonld set up an authority unknown to the constitution, aud might lead to com plications of a character injurious to the future peace aud settlement of the coun try. The Maoris are already represented ill both Houses of the Legislature, and they enjoy the some privileges as all other sec tions of the conimuuity of represent ing tbeir views by means of public meetings and by petitions to Parliament. We cannot see that they are entitled to any further privileges than those with which their European neighbours nro content; or that any special iustitutious of the nature indicated would in any way benefit the natives or the colony as a whole. The sooucr the natives realize the fact that they are subject to the same laws as tho Europeans the better for both races inhabit ing these Islands.

We learn that a survey is now being made of the portion of tho Patetere block which the Government propose to receive ill satisfaction of their claims for advances to the natives on account of the purchase money for tho block. Resides this reserve it is proposed to set aside other blocks in suitable situations as settlements and cul tivations for the nativo owners, the aress being amply suitable to their wants, while tho greater part of the line block will be rendered available for settlement.

Messrs Upton and Co. havo just issued the usual annual edition of "Time's Foot steps for ISSI." It is a prettily designee! calendar for the Giirrent year executed in the best style by C. Goodall and Sou, of London.

At a meeting of the stewards of the Auckland Racing Club last night the com plaint made against Prod Matthews of alleged foul riding in the Grand Stand Handicap on Satin day was heard. Mr Bucklaud occupied the chair. Mr Mac- Donald, the owner of Foul Play, made a statement. The evidence of 1). Munn aud Derritt was then taken, after which the following resolution was carried:—"The stewards having heard tbe evidence brought forward by Mr MiuDonald iv his charge against Fred. Matthews, are of opinion that Fred. Matthews, the rider of Foul Play in the Grand Stand Handicap, U completely exonerated trom the charges brought against him."

Cambridge is making inpid nud sub stantial progress. With a largo area of some of the best soil in the Waikato, in and about the district, together with au ex perienced and enterprising class of fanners and settlers, and an industrial population, its pastotal and agricultural interests are rapidly assuming important dimensions, and in tlio course of a few years it is destined to rival the mo.-t thriving distiicts in the Middle Island. On every side new buildings are being erected aud improve ments effected, and all tbat is now needed is the opcuing up ot the adjacent waste lands, and the construction of a railway to start it in a career of prosperity which will make it the most important part of the Provincial District of Aucklaud.

The pair-oared gig built by Mr C, Railey to the order of Mr Mitchclson of Kaipara, competed iv a sweepstakes race for £25, against four other boats, and won. She was rowed by two brothers named Brown.

Mr J. Green, of Dairy Flat, writes strongly condemning the proposed gum tax. He says : " There are thousands wno have invested in gum land-, bousht them from tlie Crown, and by Mr Firth's proposition he assumes authority over them, as well as over Crown lands. I ask that gentleman and the Board by what or by whose authority do they presume to ask Parlia ment to tax the gum derived from our lands. Mr Firth may find the Northern settlers not quito so tame as ho may expect. He must not think he can bounce us into submission to be especially taxed for tny purpose, for we cannot stand it, nor will we have it; and, siuce the Board has thought fit to meddle with that which doe 3 not concern them, in the gin they have laid for other, they may find themselves en trapped.''

A pnrveyor of oysters, known a3 " Peter." gave evidence yesterday in the -Supreme Court iv the case of the young Maori, Kepa, convicted of stealing thirty sovereigns, aud was sadly nonplussed by a question put to him by the Judge, who asked Peter how loug he had known Kepa, " about two years," replied the oysterman, "Are you sure you are right?" asked His Honor, " quite right," wasthelaconic reply. "Then you must have known him ia Mount Eden gaol, for I find that Kepa has been a prisoner there for the greater part of tbat terra." Peter drooped his head and blushed.

The person who was seen to take a lady's umbrella from the Domain on New Year's day is requested to return it to the S'l'AE Office if he wishes to avoid exposure.

An error was inadvertently made in our report of the Sunday evening service at tlje Theatre. The chairman, Dr Kcndenline, intimated that au after meeting, and the Thursday evening service would be held iv the hall of the Youug Men's Rooms, Wellesley-street. The committee have no idea of giving tip the Theatre as the place for holding the Sunday evening service. We understand, although the services in the Theatre are usually crowded, the collections are not equal to the expenses; only twice has sufficient money been put into the voluntary contribution boxos to cover the expenses. The committee desire to make thc?c services, designed especially for persons outside the churches, self-supporting as well as religiously useful. The rent of the Theatre is £3 per night, and the average contributions amount to little more than half the required sum. A certain number of persons, it would appear, contribute a regular weekly sum, while the majority who receive instruction, give nothing. This is not as it should be.

" Investigate " sends a long so-called "spiritual communication " as an answer to Mr fieorge Brown's denunciation of spiri tualism as a " corrrupted and Godless creed." If, as our correspondent says, his trauscript is " a correct copy as received by the medium," the schoolmaster is sadly " abroad " in ihe spirit land. We have only space for one extract:—" All that is good is God for he knoweth no evil. My Friends all that is evil is the evils of this earth and these, are the ones you have to guard against, no such thing as evil spirits, who knows belter then him who Knoweth what your Earthly frame is heir to, and how could he consinge to everlasting punishment tbat which is part of himself, for you must all know that God is a spirit and man is after his own image uot flesh and blood but of the spirit. Oh gloiuous man tho immortal part of man the soul or what is called the spirit ef you could only comprehende its glourous future you would not be led by your preachers and your teachers but would say I know in he whom I have beleived who never tells a lie for he is my heavenly Father and has a future state prepared for me,"

Mr John Mullins, builder, was the only candidate proposed for the vacancy in the ParneU Borough Council, and ho was ttiereforo declare 1 elected. Ho was nomin ated by Messrs McKeuzie and Robiuson.

The "Northern Miner" (Charters Towers), in noticing au illustrated paper, says :—"There is a group ot the Australian cricketers. As types of Australian physique and beauty they are very low. There is a good deal of 'pug' about the lot. There is a large cartoon of the champion oarsmen. Trickett looks mean and weerty neor Han lan, who hns the thews nnd sinews of n Milo and the frank open look of a man."

We arc requested to remind water-con sumcrs who have not paid their rates that the samo require to be paid forthwith at the City Council offices, and [that non-payment will render them liable to have supplies cut off.

.The tenders for tba Parnoll Orphan Hcthic were opened to-day at noon at the office of the Treasurer, when the following Were declared the successful tenders : — T. Hewin nnd brother for groceries ; Thos Elley, for meat; E. Stilwall, for bread.

The shipping generally lying alongside the Queen-street wharf, aud the steamer Arawata in particular, were gaily decked out in bunting to-day in honour of the mar riage of Mr David Mills (Manager of tho Union S.S. Company's business at Welling ton) to Miss Mncll'iirlano, daughter of Mr Thomas Maoffarlane, Provisional Trustee in Bankruptcy, and Curator of Intestate Estates. The young lady is widely known, ami highly esteemed In the community.

The coaches leaving Cambridge and Hamilton for To Aroha are usually crowded with passengers, and quite a small rush has set iv to tlie new El Dorado. Even the local hairdresser at Cambridge has laid down the razor and strop for the pick and shovel, and the aristocracy of the district are compelled to go unshaven or to risk the danger of disfiguring their faces by unskilful tonsurial manipulation. It would be well, however, fur men of limited mentis to carefully weigh tin ir chances beforcsuffering themselves to be attracted from certain employment by the uncertain prospects held out to them at Te Aroha. Until the field is developed employment will necessarily bo limited, and none but capitalists will be ablo to stand the strain on their resources.

'Iho whole of the town-belt of Cambridge will shortly bo put up for lease in live acre blocks.

To the Editor: Sir,—l sec by the EVEN ING UTAH of last night, that "Bell Ringer" refers to tlie fact that the bells ought to be hung aud rung in true English style, but I suppose ho is not aware that one of tlie bells is broken, nud that there is a talk of a concert being held towards defraying the cost of recasting the bell, as it would have to bo sent to England to bo done. It would cost about £70 altogether. We should be happy to receive any subscrip tions towards tlie above, to bo addressed to tho secretary, Mr J. K. Davis, Bishop's Court, Parnell.-I am, Sa, Onk ok tiik Guild

"\\ c are ghd to hear that some steps arc about to be taken in regard to the proposed public hall for Hamilton West. As our readers aic aware, the building was to have been erected by the joint efforts of the Anglicau Church Vestry, tho Volunteers, and a committee appointed by tho public. Within the past few days it has, we under stand, been arranged to hold a meeting to deal with the funds already in hand. It is greatly to be regretted that such apathy should hive beeu shown in the conduct of this matter, although excuses may doubt less be fouud for it. However, it ii some thing to know that it is still kept in remem brance.—" Waikato Times."

Amongst the most noteworthy improve ments now beiug effected in the town of Cambridge is the ercctiou of a large ad dition to tho National Hotel. Tbe additions consist of a two-storey structure, containing a number of bed-rooms, shop?, and a sample room for tho' convenience of commercial travellers. When theso additions have been completed the National will he one of the best country hotels in the Provincial district of Aucklaud. Mr and Mrs Kaynes, the host and hostess, arc deservedly popular, and their attention to comfo't and convenience of visitors is beyond all praise. Tho hotel is elegantly furnished,and contains first-class accomoda tion for travellers, especially for families making a lengthened stay iv tho district. The cuisine department is also under ths management oi an experienced major domo, while the attendance is all that could be desired.

To the Editor : Sir,—Will you kindly in sert this letter in the columns of the EVKNINO STAR, and give mc your opinion on the subject. I employed a sharebrokor

at Auckland to buy me some Alburnias last November nt 30-t each ; at tho samo time 1 gave him instructions to sell at a profit ns soon as possihle. .Shortly after he purcliasrd 1 received a telegram stating that he might get mo 3s profit, to which I replied to sell at that profit, taking it for granted that it was exclusive of dividend. 1 considered it quite unnecessary to state in telegram exclu-ive of dividend, as tbat wa? one and payable nearly a week beforo 1 gave him instructions to sell. Should I havo received

33s on each share exclusive of dividend ? or was was 30s Gd and the dividend of 2h 6d a bona lido and a business-like transaction ? or do you not consider it very sharp practice compelling me to transfer shares nt a price which 1 never intended selling at? — Yours,^'c.,SUFKKßEß,Napier.—[W'e lind on reference to our files that on November 17th Alburnias were quoted with sellers at £1 (h; iv the beginning of December they were quoted-buyers, £1 lis Cd ; the divi dend of 2s Gd was payablo on the 9th December, and after tlio dividend the quotation was—buyers, £1 lis.—Ed. E.S.] A very pleasant social party of young people met last evening in the Albert Hall at the invitation of Mr W. Eraser (son of the well-known irontonndcr), and Mr W. McGregor (sou of Captain McGregor), to celebrate tlie completion by the hosts of their terms of apprenticeship to the engineer ing profession. The sides of tho hall were tastefully hung with national aud com mercial flags, and a most appetising collection of good things was laid out in the ante room. At nine o'clock precisely the Master of Ceremonies (Mr J. M. Geddis), opened the proceedings with an appropriate speech, and thenceforward up till the break, ing up of the gathering at four o'clock, the round of enjoyment proceeded unin terruptedly. The dajee programmo was diveis-ilied by the introduction into it of Beveral parlour games, while further variety was lent it by the execution of a Scotch reel by Messrs J. McLeod and D. Watson. Messrs Geo. Fraser, J, McLeod, A. W. Mundy, and Waygood acted ai stewards, and by their exertions assisted to make the affair the success it proved to be. The company separated after lustily cheering the hosts, the Master of Ceremonies, and the stewards. Messrs Wright (piano), and C. Hannken (violin) were the musicians.

The "Sydney Evening News" says : — "The New Zealand and South Pacific Pilot" is the title of a very excellent and useful nautical work published and printed by Mr H. Brett, of Auckland, aud edited by Mr T, C. Tilly, Navig. Lieutenant, B.N. The publisher, who is a well known resident of Auckland, and proprietor of the Auckland Star, having been mado awaro of the want of a thoroughly revised ' Now Zealand Pilot,' the lust edition having been published in 1875, sot himself to the task, and was successful in obtaining the services of Mr Tilly, Examining Officer for Masters' and Mates' certificates nnder the Now Zea land Government, to carry out the revision, and the work thus conjointly produced is oue that will doubtless prove of exceeding usefulness to navigators in Pacific waters. The work also Includes a nautical almanac for 1881, 1882, and 1883. The editor states that he has received cordial assistance in the work, and specially mentions Captain Burgess, chief harbourmaster, for his tcchuical information. The work is clearly and distinctly printed and well bound, and will assuredly befonnd on the book shelves of every master mariner, or of these who aspire to become one.

The first animal meeting of Lodgo Reliance, No. 2, Loyal United Frieuds, was held iv the Masonic Hall, Newton, last evening. A number of members were present to witness the presentation of a handsome jewel to their treasurer, Bro. P. F. Martinson, for his zeal as an officer duriDg his term, and Bro. J. G. Jackson with a Past Master's certificate on his leaving the chair. After the ceremony, the secretary read his report, which returned 71 members in good standing. The treasurer's balance-sheet shewed the credit of the Lodge to be £101 10s Bd. It was finally agreed to hold the anniversary of the Order on Monday, 17th January. The following officers were then installed by Bro. G. Warburton, R.W G.M , as follows -.—Bros. G, Stevenson, W M.; P. Drummond, D.M.; J. Cox, Secretary, re-elected ; P. F. Martin son, Treasurer, re-elected ; J. C, Davsou, Assistant Secretary ;W. N. Woodall, Steward ;W. Brindson, D.S.; J. N. Hunt, J.T.; T. Ward, U.T.; J. G. Jackson, P.W.M. Bros. W. Jennings, W. W. Day, and J. N, Hunt, Auditors. Committee Management re-elected. After a cordial vote of thanks to tho trustees and the retiring officers, the Lodge was closed iv due form.

A New Jeisey clergyman promises ;n address on " How may a pastor interest his people iv missions 1" If lie bo a particularly dull pastor, he might interest tho most obtuse congregation by offering to go up one.

The Waikato natives do not place avery favorable interpretation on To Whiti a re ply to the Governor's invitation.

The weather in Waikato was very un settled on Saturday and Sunday, nnd on the latter day there was a very heavy and continuous rainfall. Tuesday, however, was a hue day, and tho roads wero quickly dried up.

Two or three properties in the Pukerimu district within tho last few days have changed hands. Mr Andrew Wallace,' of Otahuhu, who already oWns property in the same neighbourhood, has purchased the farm of Mr P. Cooper. Mr Risdale has sold his farm to Mr Hall, who, in conjunction with Mr T. Hughes, is about to start a largo dairying establishment at Putney,— " Waikato Times "

A billiard match between Mr H. Hil of Auckland, aud W. Tregowan of the Thames, for £10 a-side, excited a good deal oi interest at the Occideutal Hotel last night. Both men were even at 59G, when Mr Hill went in and won, the gamo having been extended by mutual agreement during its course from 500 to GOO points. Another match is arranged for to-night.

To the Editor: Sir,—Tho translation given by Messrs Richard do Thierry and Wm. Oliver is the correct meaning of Te Whiti's allusion to tho tawa berry being ripe. -Yours, &a, Paora Tuhaere Keene Tangaroa.

The local authorities in one of the Wai kato townships are in sore tribulation. Surveys of the town have been mado re spectively by two Boards, and have been fouud to cverlap. In consequence of this Mr Percy Smith has been asked to make a test survey, in order to decido the qucstiou. Should it be found that tho surveys overlap it will be accessary either to re-gazette the boundaries, or to pas 3 a short Validation Act through Parliament next session.

A considerable addition is being made to the Post and Telegraph Office at Cam bridge, in order to meet tno demand fm increased accommodation. Tho new public oflico will be M feet by 15 feet, and will be fitted up with every uecessaiy convenience, the number ot letter boxes being increased from 40 to 90.

A visitor to Waikato on New Year's Day, who had not beeu through tho district for many years was much gratified at seeing to many school children enjoying ietcs at the various centres of population. He thinks that judging from tlie healthy and robust appearance of the children there need bo no apprehension for tho future populousness of tlie Waikato.

One of the Maoris who visited Cambridge a few days ago wns Graham, or Tc Kercama. The name recalls the celebrated interview between Mr David Graham and William Thompson towards tbo close of tho Waikato war, To Kcreama having adopted his uEine from that incident. Mr David Graham exercised considerable influence with Thompson, the Maori Warwick, and used that intlence iv the interests of peace, and he succeeded in bringing about an in terview between Thompson's sons and General Cameron, which produced excel lent results, aud contributed in no small degree to tho cessation of hostilities in Waikato, which succeeded the capture uf Orakau.

To tho Editor: Sir,- In the notice which appeared in Monday night's issue, regard ing the doings of St. Paul's choristers, the writer omitted t3 stato that it was at the lady's own request, who ns you say—feasted us beforehand—tbat wc did not go back to disturb her slumbers. She thought that having already heard our delightful practice ut her house, she had bad quito enough oi a good thing, and did not desire to delay us a moment from giving her neighbours a similar treat.—l am, &c., A CIIORISTKR.

Close to Cambridge there is a very pretty lake, supposed by some to have been scooped out by the backwater from tbe Waikato river. The Local Board now propose to utilize the margiu of the lake as a public recreation ground, and to plant trees so as to protect the walks from the sun. The project is at present only in embryo, but it will, doubtless, assume definite shape iv a few months, whenever the funds arc available for tho proposed, work. When the plan has been carried out Cambridge will possess oue of tho most beautiful rccroatiou grounds in the colony.

Complaint is made by old residents in the Waikato that some of the cemeteries con taining the remains of soldiers and mem bers of the colonial forces who fell during the war arc being sadly neglected, the feuccs aud head-boards being in a dilapi dated condition. If we remember rightly a\ote was passed by Parliament for the purpose of repairing tho fences and restoring the graves, but so far as wc can learn it. has not yet been ex pended, The local authorities ought to take actii nin this matter. It is n ditgrace to the distriot that the last resting-places of those who loßt their lives to secure the peace of the country and to win the lands which are now dotted with thriving and peaceful homesteads, should be overrun by wild pigs and cattle, while the names of the dead arc being obliterated by decay.

Good progress is being made with the sea wall along the outer face of tho proposed railway reclamation, Tho masonry is of a very substantial character, aud the setting is equal to anything of tho kind wc have seen in the colony, the cement used being composed of the Maburaugi hydraulic lime which the contractor finds much superior to the Port land cement imported at great cost from England, The superiority of the Mahu rangi lime for this class of work was mani fest from a cursory Inspection of the sea wall now in process of construction. The cement sets rapidly and firmly under the action ot the tide, and attains a remarkable degree of hardness, whereas the Portland cement remains soft, and is washed away. We recommend contractors and others to use the local lime wherever possible, and so help to develop the resources ot the colony, instead of seuding large sums of money abrond for inferior material.

Mr Carter, the well-known whip end livery-stable proprietor of Waikato, has been doing such au excellent business lately that another competitor has been tempted to enter the field. Mr Butler, having secured a small subsidy for the con veyance of the mail", made his first trip on Saturday last. The rival coaches left Hamil ton at about 6 p.m., immediately after the arrival of the train from Auckland, and au exciting race ensued to Cambridge. Mr Carter had much the better team of horses, but was heavily handicapped in the raco by having a full complement of passengers and a heavy mail coach, while liutlcr, with a very light coach, had only two passengers. Carter, however, counterbalanced his dis advantages by skilful driving, nnd main tained the lead until ncaring Cambridge, rarely breaking from a trot or using the whip, while his opponent was flogging industriously along tho whole way and keeping his team nt a canter. Near the residence of Major Hay, Butler made ft frantic rush, aud won by a few lengths, the time occupied between Hamilton and Cambridge being one hour and a quarter. Mr Carter, how ever, monopolises the lion's share of the passenger trallic, his popularity aud bon liomic rendcriug him a ecncral favourite throughout tho whole district, Opposition to him, judging from the results, is not likely to prove a very remunerative specula tion. Mr Carter also luns a coach to To Aroha, which is well patronised. An amusing story is told of a band of excursionists who went to the Hot Springs a few days ago. The felicitous gathering consisted of old Mr and Mts A., accom panied by numerous sons aud daughters of the first and "second" generation. On arriving at their destination the party filed off iv various directions for the day's enjoyment, the old gentleman, with a few other adolescent young friends, preferring a quiet Htroll along theseabeach. Mr A., who was well-known iorhisredundant knowledge of shells, fossils, etc., was particularly anxious to entertain his young friends on this, his favourite theme, should an oppor tunity present itsolf. A geological lecture I was therefore looked forward to by ull with much earnestness. Numerous shells and sprays of sea-weed were taken up and thoroughly scrutinised by their worthy in structor, aud a large quantity was carried away by each person tor future amusement and instruction. Many other sea-side pheno mena were graphically explained to the in tense delight of the old gentleman's listeners. They were proceeding leisurely along the beach when Mr A. accidentally stumbled across something which, to his great joy, he thought would make a grand subject for a geological discourse, and he at once drew attention to it exclaiming, "Ah, my friends, now have we something to interest us — perhaps there's not the equal of this specimen in the Auckland Museum, in fact, 1 may say, even iv all New Zealand. Here we have a fossil shoe—probably a relic of some wave-lossed mariner of a most remote age. Notice particularly the effect of the action of the various salts 011 the metal and leather ; you see, my friends, that it is now a hard and stony substance." After a somewhat lengthy description the old geologist concluded by saying, " When I reflect on this interesting fossil I am persuaded that there is no doubt but that—[Voice from the sea]—"Och, bad i luck to yez, jist dhran thim shoes o' mine, oud bluntherbuss, I'm looking at yez." The poor old man at once dropped the wonderful specimen, feeling convinced tiiat he was sold for the first time ia his life, and ' simply collapsed. - Gra,

The "Manchester Mystery" has found a fittinglsolution in the sentence oifthe chemist, Alfred Hartley, to eighteen months im prisonment with hard h'bour. It will be remembered that this man had lived with the deceased, Caroline liarkhnm, who had acted as his housekeeper. The prisoner, on being called upon before sentence was passed, said he was perfectly innocent of doing anything to accelerate the death of the deceased woman. Tbe learned Judge, iv passing sentence, said the prisoner had been found guilty of the manslaughter of the woman by accelerating her death. He oould not but think that if there had been any miscarriage of justice in the case it was entirely due to tho prisoner's own conduct. It was true there were inferences that might have been drawn in favour of the prisoner, but on the other hand there were also inferences to be drawn against him arising from his own couduct, his extreme folly and absurdity in supposing that this was a natural death, and that he could play, as it were, with tho surrounding facts and deal with them as he had proposed to do. He (the learned judge) was bound to say thero was nothing he could question, or desire to question, or express any disap probation of or]doubt about in the verdict of the jury, and it only remained to him to give effect to that verdict. But perhaps the most serious puuishment to the prisoner would be that he entirely lost his position and business, and that his future must be made extremley blank.

Wo notice that Mr J. W. Knight, poulterer, fruiterer, &c, who for many years occupiod tho contr»l markot stall, has re-opened In tho samo way of business at the corner of Oarby and Qucon Streets, io tho wholo«ale and retail lino for tho Bupply of fami.les, stores and shlpß. Tho premises aro central, and are beneath tho Working Men's Club, closo to Mr Arthur's auction mart. Wo havo no doubt but that Mr Knight's change Is a wiso one.

ST. THOMAS'S CHURCH.

Entries for the open boat race for the cup presented by MrStaudford will be recoived at tho Ponsonby Hotel to-morrow night. The race is for boats between 12 ft and 20 ft measurement, under .the Ponsonby Rowing Club rules,

For tbe purpose of experiment, the City Commission of Sewers has decided to accept contracts from three seperate com panias for lighting London with the electric light. The experiment will commence on February 1 next. It is estimated that the cost, including the plant, will be about four times the prico now paid for gas-lighting.

The new organ of St. Thomas's Church was opened lost evening in the presence of a full congregation, among whom we noticed the Right Roy. Dr. Cowie, Bishop of Auckland (presiding), Rev. C. M. Nelson, (St. Paul's), Rev. Mr Tebbs (St. Matthew's), ami Rev. Mr Hitchcock, recently appointed to the charge. Mrs Tebbs assisted at the organ, in turn also Messrs Brown, Slater, and Jones, whikt the choirs of St. Matthew's and St. Thomas's churches saug the " Te Deum " (Ramsey's music), and selected hymns from ancient and modern collection. An overture preceded His Lordship's remarks, which were heard with bccomiug attention. His Lordship congratulated the congregation of St. Thomas's on the acquisition of their beauti ful organ. It was not the first time he had had the pleasure of listening to its sweet tones ; whenever he heard it he remembered the harmonious sounds he used to hear in the Rev. Vicessimus Lush's church at the Thame?. Ho could not express a better wish than their worship should be character ised with tlie same order and reverence that prevailed in Mr Lush's church, and that they would look upon the organ ns a symbol of the harmony which should reign amongst the congregation The rev. gentleman then proceeded to speak on the history of the organ aud its introduction into the Church. They must not think that tbe organ men tioned ia Scripture was the same as those wo now use ; they were altogether different. The date aud place where the organ was first used is unknown. In the year ISOO they were in universal favour, but up to the year 1220 none were to bo found in tho Christian churches. From that date up to the commencement ot tho Puritan War, many had been introduced into the larger churches, but at the time of the Restoration hardly ono waa to bo found in England. However, the organ again came into favour as an instrument for the worship of God, and now the humblest village church in England wts considered to be something wantiug if i; did not have one. They hni now really beautiful and splendid instni ments in thsir large cathedrals, and, in b.s opinion, it was quite right and proper to have everything that was good for the worship and glory of God. He would next say a few words as to the functions of the organ. Its first function was to produce sweet sounds acceptable to the ear. God Almighty ia his love constructed it, and it would, therefore, be very ungrateful to speak in contempt of an instrument which God hod mado for their enjoyment. The organ was constructed exactly on the same principle as tho lark which sings in the Domaiu, the waves on the sea shore, and the roar ot thunder during a storm, aud answered the same purpose, viz., the pro duction of harmony. He greatly enjoyed the prelude before worship when played reverently by good men and women, and he felt much disturbed in miud when he heard an organist lead off with anything like a touch of irreverence. The second and chief function of the organ is to support, sustain, and accompany those who siDg and praise Almighty Uod. When played irreverently it cannot in any way be said ti assist, but the good accompanyist always remembers that he is only a means to an end. Some times an organist plays as if he was a part of the instrument—this was very bad. He wished that all who take part in church work would remember that they, like the organ, were only the means to au end. The third function appeared to him as a symbol of the spirit which f hould exist in a congre gation—a combination of sweet souuds nil iv harmouy with oue another—and should remind them of the harmony which should reign among themselves. If we are to have singing, if we are to have accompanying, let them be the best possible. He would con clude by wishing that the coming year would be a very happy one for all the mem bers of St. Thomas's congregation, and that they would in future look upon the organ as a symbol of the harmony and goodwill which should reign among them, and surely it would be a scandal if a Christian people could not be as harmonious as a combina of wood and metal. He would wish them all " a happy New Year," and hoped to hear said of them, "Behold how these Christian men love one another,"

SCINTILLATIONS.

"Ho brief; for It is wen words as with sun beams: tho moro thoy are condensed, tho deeper thoyburn/'-SouTUKV.

Henderson's Mill Races are fixed for the 2Gth of Fcbrunry. The Auckland Autumu Race Meeting will be held on Easter Monday and Tuesday,

A peal ot ten light bells has been ordered for the Christchurch Cathedral.

The Lvltelton Wesleyan bazaar has cleared £500. Mr 11. K. Cotton, auctioneer of Cam bridge, advertises the sale c£ the racing privileges on Thursday. An amateur Minstrel performance is to be giTcn in order to pay off the remaining liabilities of the Hamilton baud.

The ladies of Hautapu gave a bread and butter party on New Year's Eve, which was well attended.

There are 1.30 appeals against the Property Tux in Hawkes' Bay, out of 9CO assessed for £IG,OUO tax.

Mr Percy Smith has laid off the land in satisfaction of the Government claim on Patetero, and it will go through the Native Lands Court nt Cambridge on the 25th.

Mr John Knox has been elected chair man of the Hamilton Domain Board, aod the Board has applied to the Commissioner of Crown Lands for 20 acres of land on the Town Belt.

No. she does not live on dew. And her brow's not lily whito, And her hair is not tho huo Of thoßun'noye-dimminglight, No, her teeth aro not liko powl. And her meuth|s not a roao— Sho is juU the kind of a girl Nature generally grows.

"Why, Franky," exclaimed a mother at a summer boarding-house, " I never knew you to ask for a second piece of pie at home." " I knew 'twant no use," said Franky, as he proceeded with his pie eating. The entries for .he Mares' Produce Stakes close on Friday next, at the office of the Secretary of the A.X.C., Mr Percival. Entries for the Derby, ISS2, and the Papakura Races close on the same day. Two ladies went to the theatre the other evening. In one of the affecting pauses of the play, when tho whole house was hushed in stillness, one lady who had been using her opera-glass attentively, remarked to tbe other, " Pooh ! The trimming on her dress is nothing but Hamburg edging, after all."

Professor Hutton, of Canterbury College, has received notice that his services will be dispensed with after the end of the year, when £300 compensation will be allowed him. The decision has caused much surprise, as the Professor was only recently induced to give up his position in Otago.

CABLEGRAMS.

EUROPEAN.

[BKUTSB'3 TELEGRAMS.]

THE BASUTO WAIi.

CAPE TOWN, January 4. News has been received from Basutoland that the patrolling force of Cape Rifles, under Colonel Carrington, has safely re turned to camp at Mafcting, after having come up with the convoy of provi sions and arms and ammunition which has been despatched from head-quar ters for the use of the garrison. The arrival of the convoy has materially strengthened Colonel Carringtou's posi- Further news to hand shows that the recent defeats of the Basutos, Pondomies, and Tambookies, by the colonial troops, have had a good effect on the other tribes of Tembus who had also joined iv rebellion, but are now yielding, large numbers of tho tribe having recently submitted to the Cape forces, which were operating against them. THREATENED ATTACK ON IRISH

ARMOURIES,

LONDON, January 4,

Owing to rumours of an intended Fenian raid on the armouries of the Volunteer Corps in England, the authorities at the War Office have ordered precautions to be taken at the head quarters of various corps, with a view to prevent the success of any attack on the armouries.

ATTEMPT TO BLOW UP H.M.S,

LORD WARDEN,

A rumour has found general currency here to-day that a torpedo has been found to have been placed under the boards of Her Majesty's ship Lord Warden, which is lying in the Frith of Forth, on the east coast of Scotland. The alleged act is attri bated to Fenians. No official confirmation of the rumour has been obtained.

PROPOSED ARBITRATION

LONDON, January 3,

Tho Great Powers still continue to urge Turkey and Greece to agree to European arbitration on the frontier question, but a favourable result has not, so far, been arrived at, NEW ZEALAND SECURITIES. The 5 per cent. New Zealand 10-40 loan is £104 ; the 5 per cent. New Zealand 1889 loan is IOSJ ; the 4J per cent. New Zealand 1879 (1904) loan is 98|.

AUSTRALIAN.

THE SUEZ MAIL. MELBOURNE, Wednesday. It is announced that the Peninsular and Oriental Company's steamers, with the homeward mails, will henceforth leave Mel bourne for Galle on Wednesdays. THE SUGAR MARKET. Mauritius advices dated to the 24th December, report the sugar market there as very strong, and sugars generally are £2 10s per ton higher. Tonnage was scarce. SOUTH AUSTRALIAN PARLIA MENT. ADELAIDE, Wednesday. Tho South Australian Parliament was opened yesterday by His Excellency the Governor, whose speech on the occasion referred exclusively to Border duties con ventions which has recently been concluded with Victoria and New South Wales.

OUR WELLINGTON TELE GRAMS.

WELLINGTON, this day. It was decided in Cabinet last night to make public the toll text of the Governor's letter to Te Whiti and the Ministerial memorandum recommending it. Both arc to the purport already wired.

No further reply has come from Te Whiti.

Sir W. Fox arrived last uight, |and ha 9 beeu in conference to-day with Ministers aud Mr Parris.

Messrs JJnll and Bryce aro expected to return on Friday,

Tho Hiuemoa and Stella did not get away last night, but leavo this evening with the liberated prisoners.

ALLEGED ILL-TREATMENT OF

PRISONERS.

An inquiry was held on board the Hiue moa this afternoon touching the complaint of ill-treatment of Maori prisoners iv Dune din gaol. The result is not known, but the story is disbelieved.

ACCIDENT AT WAIHEKE.

NARROW ESCAPE FROM

DROWxNDVG.

The excursion to the Waiheke races In the s.s. Coromandel was not an unalloyed pleasure to passengers, the upsetting of a boat, while proceeding from the vessel through the surf to the beach, being very near attended with fatal results. The steamer anchored in the open and exposed bay, on the margin of which the races take place. The late prevailiog winds had caused a considerable swell and a heavy surf rolled on the beach. A boat-load of peoplo which first went off consisted of owners of games of chance and their luggage. This narrowly escaped a capsize. The second boat was turned over by the second wove that struck it. Mr Hodgson caught hold ot his wife's dress, and after placing her in charge of a sailor he looked round tor Miss Chappel, but she was not to be seen, neither was our representative, Mr Withe ford. They were both left under the boat when it capsized. The latter got clear and came to the surface at the stern of the boat just as Mr Hodgson was crying out fran tically " Where is Nelly." Another wave coming turned the boat over, and Miss Chappel was found senseless with her arms round a seat aud her head in the bottom of the boat. Two men got her to shore. Miss Hodgson was taken ashore by Brown i and assisted by J. Walker, a man who, see ing the catastrophe, had tunin the water as tar as was s»fe to assist. Mr Witheford had on a laruc overcoat which, together with the fact of his being scarcely able to make use of the left knee, placed him in some danger. After getting nearer shore, and feeling the bottom, he tried to walk, but every roll of the surf threw him down, and as the we'ght of the coat made swimming difhcnlt, he was quite exhausted on getting out of the water. Mr King (ot the Governor Brown), made a game fight with the billows, His gold watch, though not a repeater, stopped as soon as he was immersed iv the sea, and now shows the misfortune to have occurred at 12.30. Mr Sedger, of Parnell, had some difficulty iv getting out. Mr Wilson was also on the boat and escaped. Mr Hodgson was certainly the means of saving Miss Chappel from drowning. Mrs Hodg son was very ill last night from tho effects of tho shock. All the party were in wet clothes the whole day, excepting our representative, who has to thank Mr Thos. Garvey for his kindness*. As Mr Witheford was benumbed with cold, two horses were obtained, aud he was taken to Mr Garvey's house about three miles away, receiving fresh clothing and refresh ment. The races were attended by a score or two of Europeans and about a hundred Maoris. The events were interesting, but our reporter was unable to attend to his duties, and of the carrier pigeons sent down, two went ashore, drowned iv their cage, and the others were not fit for work Captain Hargreaves, who watched tho boat from the steamer, saw it suddenly disappear, and got his glass, but could see no trace of the boat or occupants, and was much agitated. In the evening he did all he could to make things comfortable for those who had been in the sea. The passengers re embarked about a mile from the spot where the accident happened, as the surf was not so heavy.

Our reporter desires to thank two persons who showed great kindness to him yester day at Waiheke. Mr James Williams on seeing him reach the beach in so weak a state rode off two miles to get a change of clothing, and though they were not made use of, the kindness of the act remains the same. Mr Walker, in the employ of Mr Kissling, kindly dismounted from his horse at night, and allowed Mr Witheford to ride. Mr Walker walked in the rain for more than a mile round the beacb, while the party were looking for a safe place to get into the boat; Mr Walker refusing to take any remuneration for his services.

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Before Captain Daldy and C. C. McMillan, Esq., J.P.'s.)

INEBRIETY.

George Fox confessed to drunkenness and was find ss, Mary Brown ss, and Edith Smith, 10s.

LARCENY AS A BAILEE.

Andrew James was charged with lar ceny as a bailee of a cheque on the Bank of New Zealand for £4 13s, on the 18th Dec, the property of Gecrge Wreford. Prisoner pleaded guilty.

Mr Pardy stated that prisoner was em ployed at Guthrie and LarnacVs mill, and was entrusted with the cheque to bring into Auckland on the account of the firm, instead of which he cashed the cheque and appro, priated the money. Prisoner said he got drunk and lost his own cheque of £10. The Beuch said it was a Eerious offence and prisoner must go to prison tor a month, with hard labour.

CLIPPING ANC PAINTING A HUMAN BEING,

Abraham Bowden, cab proprietor, and William Brown,were called upon to answer to a charge of assaulting William Dawson by cutting all the hair from hia head with a horse-clipper, shaving him, and colouring bis naked body with pink dye on the 26th of December. Mr Tyler appeared for defendants, and pleaded not guilty. The Court was crowded during tbe hear ing of this case. Mr Pardy said, according to the informa tion, this was a very serious offence. The prosecutor, Dawson, had been drinking heavily, and, while iv a drunken state, lay down In a stable, where the alleged offences were committed. He would ask for a with diawal in the case of Brown, who did not appear to have taken any active part in the outrage. . The Bench said it was a serious matter to drag a man into Court, and without any evidence being adduced, withdraw the charge, and in such case cos^s must be allowed. The prosecutor, Dawson, came forward in a wild and unsteady state, and waa not able to give evidence. He would ask that Dawson might be committed for contempt of Court. He would then be kept sober. Dawson commenced staggering about the Court and interrupted the proceedings so much, that he was taken into custody. Mr Tyler said it w^ very necessary that the case should go on, as several of Bowden's witnesses were leaving for Wangarei. The Bench : What do you snggest, Mr Pardy'. Mr Pardy said he would withdraw it, as prosecutor was unable to give evidence, and the police might take it up as a public prosecution. The case was withdrawn and casts admitted.

ACT THE SECOND.

Abraham Bowden and William Hudspeth were charged with assaulting in like manner, clipping and shaving the head and body of Phillip Brady, on the 29th of December.

Mr Tyler appeared for Bowden, and pleaded not guilty. uudspeth pleaded guilty in part. Phillip Brady, who was partly in toxicated, deposed tbat he was a groom by profession, He was in Bowden's stables on the 27th. He wanted to see his intimate friend, Brown, who was Abraham's groom. Brown was gone to see his grandmother. He laid down and fell asleep. He felt a tugging at his hair, and on opening his eyes, saw Abraham Bowden leaning over him, and taking his ha.:r off wholesale (laughter) with the horse clipper. I said: " Abe, you've a good cheek." To Mr Tyler: I'll swear it was Bowden who clipped my hair. Mr Tyler : That will do. Samuel Jones, a carter, deposed that he was present and saw Hudspeth clip Brady's head as he lav asleep. It was not skipper Bowden who did it Skipper came in after Brady's hair was cut. William Mudford, shoemaker, deposed that HudsDeth did the clipping. He saw him do it with bis own eyes. Hudspeth said it was a drunken freak.

Mr Tyler addressed a few words to the Bench on the innocence of Bowden.

The Bench decided to acquit Mr Bowden, but could uot allow costs, as he was a proprietor aud the lessee of the premises, and ought not to have permitted such outrages in his stables. Hudspeth was fiued 10s and costs, or seven days.

THE WYNDHAM-STREET STABBING CASE.

Hugh Storey, a lad, again appeared in answer to a charge of stabbing Charles Barrett King, with a knife, on the 22nd December.

Mr Tole appeared for defendant. Mr Pardy conducted the case, and said that the parties were employed in Austin's boot tactory, in Wyndham-street Mr King as foreman, and defendant as an apprentice.

Charles B. King deposed that on the 22nd December, in the morning, he had occasion to speak to the lad because he had left at 5 instead of 6 o'clock on the previous night in his (Mr King's) absence ; he replied, "I don't know." Witness then told him that he should have entered the hour of leaving in the time book. The boy returned no answer, aud he gave him a box on the ear. The boy then caught hold ot his knife and said, '"' If you do that again, I will put this knife into you." Not liking to be put down in the presence of the boys, he gave him a second box on the ears, when prisoner immediately stabbed him in the fleshy part of the hand; it bled very much. He kicked the boy out of the shop, and went to Dr. Hooper, who dressed the wound. To Mr Tole: He was apprenticed iO Austin and Co. The wound has l.e-detl. Had twelve boys to look after. Had struck him before ; boys needed correction as well as physic (laughter). To Mr Tole : Did not complain to Mr Austen. As the youthful learners were under his care; he was anxious not to push the matter, but it was In the hands of the police and beyond his control. Mr King wished to state that he corrected the boy for not doing his work. George Walker, bootmaker, in the em ploy of Messrs. Auston and Co., deposed that he was present at the time of the occurrence; saw Mr King by the side of the boy Storey, and heard him ask why he left so early on th; previous night, as the work was wanted. Mr King said, "Knock the boots down, or I'll knock you down."

Mr Tole : Knock what down ! Witness : The boots, meaning the rivets.

Mr Tole : That's a technical term, your Worships, a gentle craft phrase. Witness then corroborated Mr King's statement, and said that Mr King gave Storey two lifts behind, immediately after he got a stab in his hand. Storey ran away. His name was Walker, but he could run for all that. The boy was clouted twice before he used the knife.

William Murphy, bootmaker, gave similar evidence. He was working next to Storey. Dr. Hooper, a duly qualified medical practitioner, of Hobson-street, deposed to the nature and depth of the wound, which was in the palm of the hand, one inch and a half iv length, separating an artery. In was not dangerous. Dressed it and it is now healed, but the third and fourth fingers are injured, and Mr King is unable to shut his hand.

The prisoner was committed to take his trial at the next sittings of the Supremo Court, but on the application of counsel was admitted to bail in two sureties of £50 each, STRIKING A BOATMAN. William Hancock, charged with striking John Lourey, a boatman, was mutually settled, and the case withdrawn.

This was all the business

GOOD TEMPLAR GRAND LODGE.

TO-DAYS SITTING,

The G.W.C.T. called to order at 9.30 a.m. After the usual formularies of opening, the committee on "Good of the Order' con tinued their report at length. The discus sion on the subject of regalia was concluded by a largo majoiity in favour of the wearing of regalia in all the Lodges, as provided by the constitution. It was decided that a public meeting be held to-morrow evening.

The Grand Lodge 1.0. G.T. continued its sitting until 10 p.m. last night with a short reoess at 5 p.m. The G.W.C. Templar's report was read, shewing a marked improve ment in the working of the Order, as well as an increase in the lodges under the jurisdic tion of the R.W.G. Lodge ot the World. A marked improvement in the financial posi tion of the Order was ono of the prominent points in this, and the reports of the G.S. aud G. Treasurer, which shewed an excess of assets of all kinds over liabilities, amounting to £134 19s, the actual cash assets being £51 17s 9d, without any liability as a charge upon it. On resuming at 7.30, the committee's repot on several subjects on the order paper was brought up. Daring the eveniug sitting, some animated discussions took place, especially upon tbe question of dancing being allowed in con nection with the Order. The Grand Lodge decided to maintain the preseut rule. The Grand Lodge officers " were all in full regalia. The hours tor meeting are 9.30 a.m., 2 p.m., and 7.30 p.m. Tbis evening an important question will be discussed. The Grand Lodgo will work in the subor dinate degree, to afford an opportunity for all membeiß of the Order to be present.

THE AUCKLAND EVENIip STAR, WEDNES DAf, JANUARY 5,



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T^ INKIS& jCTALL, HAVE REMOVED FBOM SHORTLAND-STREET TO TEMPORARY PREMISES IN FORT STREET, OPPOSITE COCHRANE AND SON'S AUCTION MART, AND WILL CONTINUE THBIB CHEAP SALE FOR A FEW WEEKS LONGER, TO CLEAR SURPLUS STOCK, THEY WILL REMAIN IN FORT-STREET DURING THE RE-BUILDING OF THEIR WARE HOUSE IN SHORTLAND SJ KEET, WEEN the Immortal Bard wrote, "Throw Physio to the dogs," ha had not heard of SHARLAND'S SARSAPARILLA, A pleasant and aromatic BLOOD-MAKING FLUID, . Unsurpassed in the world in aroma, richness, and flavour; a bright golden fluid. Had Bhakspeare now lived, he would have cMled three times a-day for Shakland'b SARSAPARILLA BITTERS, A Genuine Tonic and Appetiser, A LIVER STIMULANT, And Dispeller of the Megrims or Blues. Ask your Merchant, youf Purveyor, your Hotel Proprietor, for Hharland's Sarßaparilla and Sarsaparilla Bitters, and see that no other is substituted. ■ Sold in Quart Bottles.



Special Advertisements. QUE ANNUAL . CHRISTMAS SALE WILL COMMENCE ON MONDAY, 20th inst. THE GOODS WILL BE OFFERED AT nosT pitlCE! FOR A FEW WEEKS ONLY I In Order to clear Heavy Stocks J i~IOBGRAVE & riO., Importers of DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, queen- street, Auckland. X.B. — Xo Goods will bi entered during the Sale. a l t. 1000 BAGS W. & W. FINE 1000 BAGS W. & W. COARSE ON HAND AKD TO ARRIVE PER -LOCH URR,' From London. In lots to snit purchasers. W. S. LAURIE, 7, Wyndham-street. T3EGATTA TpXCURSIONS, ISSI. AUSTRALIAN r<RICKETEKS' T^ISIT, 1831 WE are Prepared to SUPPLY YOU with the Most Snitable|and Fashionable Clothing Required for Holiday Gathering', Picnics, Water Excursions, Lawn Tennis and Garden Partieß. i GARLICK & CRANWELL. S~~ UNSH VDES, for Afternoon Use —G. SUN3HADK3,forPicnicß,ls upwards-^ SUN3HADKB, for Carriage Uso — C. OMPADOUR Dress Goods, New Pat. — G BATEEN. New Lor, just opened — Se NOVELTIES in Dreas Goods con- Btantly arriving — C. CHILDRKN'S Pompadour Dresses, Very Cheap — G. CHILDREN'S 2-Button Kid Gloves - & CHILDREN'S Hosiery—an Immense Variety -C. HATS, La-!ie3\ JobLine.ls 3d worth 2s 6d— G. HATS and Bonnets Trimmed Cheap — & HA.TS for Children from la upwards— C. ARLICK & CRANWKLL would remind the Public that they have SACRIFICE! a Credit Trade for the sake of establish ing the pAS*? OYSTEN We Open no Nkw Accounts for Dra pery. We LOSE Customers who ask foi , Crkdit ; all we ask in return is a Libera Support by Cash Buyers, to enable us t< oontinue what is a Public Benefit Oui Goods are very Carefully Bought, and Marked at a Very Small Percentage over Cost, and we must do a Larsi Business to continue the System, and the Larger our "Turn Over ,the [mon oor Customers will Benefit by theh Support. LAWN TENNIS APRONS — G. RIDING GLO VE3, 811k Gloves — & KID GLOVES, 1.2.3, 1, 6, & 8 Button — C. FANCY BAGS and Boxes of Handkerchief; for Presents GOLD and CHENILLE Scarves and Collarettes — G. GOLD and SILVER Trimmings - & GOLD COLOURED Silk Fringes.&c- C. SILKS, we have the Cheapest — G. SILKS, Special Lines, 2s 9d,ls 3d, Is 6d per yard — & SATINS and Fancy Gooda for Trim ming — C. CRETONNES, on immense Assortment — G. CRETONNES, backed with Lace, Curtain Pattern — & CRETONNES, New Styles, from 7d per yard — C. ARTICLES of New Designs too numerous tt mention in Hosiery, Underclothing Millinery, Ladles' Nick Nacks, anc Fancy Goods. BANKRUPT STOCK of Men's and Boyi Clothing and Mercery. Now beinf SOLD at Robinson's Cost, and Manu facturers' Prices by GARLICK & CRANWKLK EBT CHEAP TABLE DAMASKS, from i 6d per yard. A pURE fIiSH «YSTEM /p\ ALL DRAPER? & CLOTHING / S. \ AT \ - /CO-OPERATIVE CASI Y e/ PRICES, \/ AT THE /-IITY TTALL ARCADE, GARLICK & CRANWELL, rsIETORS. ■^ E W gO|o D S TW-EW p OODS 1 A. LINABURY & CO. Are Now Showing their NEW SPRING AHD SUMMER GOODS We hold the Largest and Best Stock of COSTUMES, MILLINERY FANCY GOODS, DRES3 GOODS FLOWERS, FEATHERS, &o„ &C Special Line of Plain Dress Silks, only 3s lid pc yard; worthss6d. 5,000 Straw Hats, all new shapes. A Large Stock of Ladies' and Children's Under clothing. Dress and Mancle-making on the premise Costumes made in 21 hours'notice. A. LINABURY & CO., 204 AND £06, QCEEN-STREET -]%/|" IL N E & /^H OYCI HAVE NOW REOBIVED, FEB STEAMER, NEW OATCAKE CLOTH NEW FIGURED SATTEENS NEW PLAIN SATTEENS NEW CHECKED SATTEEN NEW-SPUN SILK HOSE NEW LISLE HOSE NEW COTTON HOSE NEW MILLINERY NEW HATS AND BUNNETS NEW FANCY GOODS GENttRALLY. TIT IL N E & rtHOYCE, QOEES & WKLLESLEY STREETS. ■DARING "p.O WDE R. HOW TO TEST IT? NearlyallßakingPowdersareadulterated with something that increases the bulk and lowers the cost. Such as "Flour," "Rice Flour," " Cheap Arrowroot," or "Potatoe Starch." These are found in various proportions, from 20% to even 75% in the low-priced article. TRY your Baking Powder by putting a tea spoonful in a tumbler of clear wSVer—it it con tains farina the water will be milky and thick; stand tho glass for an hour in a safe place and it will deposit the farina; pour off the water ; dry the powder on blotting paper, and its nature j -will he apparent. HUDSON'S New Zealand Baking Powder Will STAND the TEST. Manufactukbd Solely by HUDSON (Late Hill and Hudson), CHEMIST. VICTORIA-STREET.



Special Advertisements. mHE MERIDEN BRITANNIA CO, MANUFACTURERS OF THE HIGHEST GRADE OF SILVER PLATED WARE, OTn on NICKEL SILVER AND WHITE METAL. Sample Rooms and Ofllces-16, East Fourteenth street. Union Squaro, New York. Factories—West Meriden, Connecticut. Sole Agents otfthe North Island, * *. a. MORRIN



W £1 Fkkk Gifts !—Tho Proprietors of Wolfe's Aromatic BcbmdaM Schnapps, to lnauco the destruction and prevent tho im proper uso of their wrappers and labels, and thus further protect tho Public ngainst fram and docoption, have enclosed In tho wrappers, or under the labs) on tho quart bo'tlcs, since Ist Ootober. IS7B, aidfcontinuo toonclo-io in jevkky DAY'S PACKING TI'UoUCtHOUT TllK YKAU, THREE fil O R D E R S, which aro drawn upon the undorsignod, and which will bo cashed by them on presentation. To secure theso Gifts, tlio Public must he careful to ask for, and accopt no'hing but, tho Genuine Udoivho Wolfe's Schnapps, with our namo upon tho top label, M. Moss & Co., Wyuyard Lane, Sydnoy.



Return of sick treated at the Provincial District Hospital for the week ending Saturday, January Ist, 18S1 •.—Remained last return, 99; admitted since, 9; dis charged, 9; died, 2 ; remaining, 97 ; males, 77 ; females, 20. Arrangement of cases : Zymotic, 11 j constitutional, 6; local, 45 ; developmental, 20 ; violent, 15. Two deaths occurred, viz., J.C. (male), aged 45 year 3, on December 25th, ISBO, from in juries; B.F. (male), aged 54 years, on December 31st 1850, from cancer. Thauks are returned to Mr Huggett for illustrated journals ; to Mr Mason, Parnell, for a quan tity of strawberries; aud to Mr Burton for a number of buns.