SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE

HIGH WATKR^^^n^n.lo^^ • UNSKT.—This Evening, 5.22 «UNRISK.-To-Morrow Morning. 6.36 MOON'S AGE.-Laßt Quarter, 20th, 9.17 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Adah, ketch, Jonos, from Thames

TO-DAY. Mariner, schoonor, Queen, from Unssell Stella, Government s.s., Falrchild, from tho South

DEPARTURES.

Christina, sohooner, Smith, for Russell Kriomhllda, schooner, Bathurst, for Whangaroa

Sissy, aohoonor, Carmlchaol. forißussell F5

PROJECTED DEPARTURES

Molbonrne and South-Tararua. s.s., Thursday Taranakl and South-Hawea, Tuesday,l?tn RnsaeU-lona. Monday; Wellington, Wednos- Whangarel nnd Bussell-Wollington, Wednes- Wfcangarel-Argyle, Tuesdays and Fridays; Wellington, Wednesday and Friday

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Wolverine.H.M.a, from Sydney, shortly Hertna, H.1.G.M.. from Melbourne, daily K^b^eTomCdon; to sail January

ChUe barque, from London; sailed December 23 Orient, baraue, from New York; to sail Fob-

Poru?barque, from London -sailed Jan. 12 £och Doe, barque,from London: saUodDeoem- Halcione, ship, from London; loading Looh Doon, barque, from London -loading Coronilla, barque, from London ; loading Jan. 6 Superior, barque, from Now York; eailod Cabarfeidh, barque (9.Q.M.J.), from Hongkong Thames, barquo. from Adelaido Emperor, brig, from Lyttolton OrweU, brigantine, from thq Islands Myrtle, brigantino, from Fnondly Islands Bthel, brigantine, from Dunedin Ryno. brigantine, from Rotumah Kodericfc Dhu. brigantine, from Dunedin Borealia. brigantino. from Altutakl Flirt, brigantine. from Samoa Raohel Cohen, Bchooner, from Dunedin Calodonia, schooner, from Samoa Mazeppa, sohoonor, from Rarotonga Marlon, schooner, from Noumea PoUcoman, sohoonor, from Noumea >gnoa Donald, schooner, from Rarotonga Sovereign, schoonor. from Rarotonga Coronet, schooner, from Aitutakl lamaru, sohooner, from Sydney Clyde, Bohooner, from Lyttelton Nightingale, sohooner. from Samoa Gael, schooner, from Levuka Baxon, Bohooner, from Lyttelton Torea, schooner, from Lyttolton Winifred, sohoonor, from New Hebrides Atotohau. schooner, from Rarotonga Ovalau, schooner, from Rarotonga Annie Wilson, schoonor, from Weetport Belle Brandon, sohooner, from Samoa Norval, sohooner, from Norfolk Island Griffin, schoonor, from Admiralty Island

EXPORTS.

Per Ringarooma, for Sydney:—lso sacks oatmeal.B7 bales flax,i2s bales fungus, i parcels Bundrieß, 1939 pieces timber.

Inwards Coastwisr. -IGhost from Orewa with 32,500 feet timber. 30,000 shingles ; Opotiki from Tairua with 32,100 feet timber; Adaha from Thames with 18.01)0 feet timber: Fairy from Thames with 30,700 feet timber; Mariner from Kußsell with 100 tons coal. Outwards CoASTWifIE.-Ghost for Orowa ; Mana for Tairua. The schooner Atlantic wIU leave for Lyttolton to-morrow with a quantity of sssheß and doors.

The Bhip Oxford has almost completed the dis charge of the Auokland portion of her cargo, and will leave for Timaru during next week.

The brigantine Eliza Mary is loading ai Oamaru With beadstuffa for this port. .

The brigantine Roderick Dhu, with 219S sacks oat' 200 sacks bones and 50 sacks oatmeal, left Dunedin for Auckland on the 9th instant. The brigantine Oamaru cleared at Lyttelton for Auokland on the 12th instant

RThe schooner Pirate will probably sail for Huabane this ev«nlng. She has on board one passenger—Mr Jas. MoGrath. The Government s.s. Stell*. Captain Fairohild, arrived in harbour, and hauled alongside the Railway Pier shortly after noon. Tho Stella left Wellington last Thursday evening and since then has called for a general survey at Cape Tumagatn. Cape Kidnappers, Napier, Portland Island, Gisborne,- White Island, Mayor Island. Mercury Bay. Tiritiri, Sandapit Puhunui and Bean Rock. At White Island soundings were taken and a survey made re the most suitable site for a wharf. The Siella took shelter in Mercury harbour last night—the night being very dirty—and left again for Auckland at one o'clock this morning. Passengers:— Major, Mrs, and Mies Campbell. Captain Grey, una four seamen for the Government schooner Hawk, and three lighthouse keepers. The Stella will not stay in harbour long, and leaves o-morrow for the pnrpoee of buoying Whanga rei harbour, and from thence proceeds to the lighthouse of Caps Maria.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

DEPARTURES. Hawea, 8.8., Kennedy, for the South Kowena, s.b., Amodeo, for Hoklanga Lalla Rookh, 9.5., Campbell, for Waitara

EXPORTS.

Per Hawea, for Taranaki: 2 oases and 8 pack ages ridging, 15 packages sundries. For Picton: 6 packages. For Greymouth: 5 coses. For Hokitiki: 7 casea, 1 orate. For Dunedin: 3 rolls matting.

The B.S. Hawea left for the South yesterday. Passengers for New Plymonth: Misses Babar, Lawrence. Gorman, Masters Gorman (2), Mr and Mies Little. For Wellington: Mr Miller.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Russell, this day. Arrived: Bingarooma, s.s., from Auckland, at 8 ft.m.; lona, from Auckland, 8 a.m

ARRIVAL OF THE TARARUA,

The Tarama, Captain Garrsrd, left Sydney at 9 p.m. on April 14, and experienced light fresh variable winds and fine weather. Arrived at Russell at 6 a.m. to-day. On Sunday the 17th instant, a child, six months old, named Mary Atkin, died of convulsions. She was buried at sea the tamo day. Passengers :—For Auckland —Messrs Park (3), Barber (2), Anderson, Laurie, Russell, Pluss, Herrles, Hops and 13 steorage. For Napier—Mr Yates. For Wellington—Messrs Cotter (3), Freoth and Duncan. For Lyttelton— Messrs Pryor, Hamilton and 2 steerage. For Port Chalmers—3 steerage. For Bluff—Mr Rodgera.

New Plymouth, this day. Arrived: Hawea, from Manukau, 6 a.m. Whangarbi, this day. Arrived: Argyle, s.s. from Auckland, 9 a.m. Lsttblton, yesterday. Arrived: Albion, s.s., from Auckland. Sailed: Wanaka, s.b., for the Manukau.

Chkistchurch this day.

The N.Z. Shipping Company h&vo received advices of the arrival at London of the Rangi tlkei from Lyttelton, and the Walroa from Wellington.

Port Chalmrrs, yesterday.

Arrived: Te Anau, s.b,, from Hobart. via the Bluff. Sailed: Wakatlpu, s.s., for Sydney, via the North.

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Star Office, Tuesday.

Messrs B. Tonks and Co. held a sale of breach and muzzle-loading guns (single barrel) and revolvers at their mart to-day, all of which were sold, realising from 10s Cd to £11 10s each. The lease of the Gisborne Brewery waa privately sold, but the terms did not transpire.

Mr H. Arthnr held a sale it fruit and poultry to-day. Auckland apples irought 2:} dto 3)d ; pears, IJd to 2Jd; Hobarton apples, 2d to 2J<J. Assorted fruits : Medlars, 2|d; quinces. 2d to aid; lemonß, la 5d to 1.3 9d per dozen. Onions, 3s 4d; pumpkins, 3s 3d to 3s 8d; potatoes, 3s ; fowls, Is 7d; ducks, Is Bd.

Mail notice.

Mails will Close as Undbr.- Thih Day. For Tairua, per Mana, at I p.m. For Thames, per Kotomahana, at 4.30 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise at 5.30 p.m. THURSDAY. 21st instant. For Walwera, Te Kapa, Craigioburn, and Warkwovth, por Roso Casey, at 8 a.m. For Whiiiangi, Tairua, Tauranga, and Opotikl, per Wellington, at 4 p.m. Per s.b. Tararua aa follows:— For India, China. Japan.Moditoranoan Ports, and Continent of Europo, lit i p.m. For Tauranga, Gisborno, Nnpler. Southorn ports, Australian Colonies, and Unitod Kingdom, via Suez, for lottors specially bo prepaid and addressed, at S p.m. For money orders, registered lottors, and newspapers, at 1 p.m. Lato lottors till 5.20 p.m. For Thamos, por Rotonmhana, at 5.30 p.m. Friday, 22nd instant. For Waitara, &c, por Kowonu, at 11 a.m. ForWaihokoand Coromandol, porCoromondol, at 2.30 p.m. For Whangaroi Heads, Parua, Waipu, Whan garoi, and Tauglhua, per Argylo, at 1 p.m. Tuesday, 26th instant. Por b.b. City of Sydaoy, aa follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United States of America. Canada, liritish Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign Woat Indies, at 1 p.m. For Unitod Kingdom and Continent of Europo, at 1 p.m. For monoy orders, roglstorod lettorß, and newspapers, at 11.30 a.m. Late lottors boaring an nxtra foe of sixponoo, in addition to the postage, will bo received by tho Mail Agent on board tho steamer up to tho limo of Bailing. Tfila mail will bo duo in London on Tuosday, Juno 7, 1881. S. B. BI3S, Cbiof Postmaßtor. Chief Poet-office Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

ArilU, 20111, ISSJ.

Thoatro Royal — Sinionsou's Royal Opera Company, " Maritana," 8 p.m. Albort Hall-Gillies' Industrial Exhibition, 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.

Notice to Correspondents.

ENQUIRKn.—TV'o cannot opon our columns to Buch discussions a3 your lcttor might raiso. London.—Tho population of London is eivon in various ways—according to thoraduia talion. Tho highest llguros in tho last conaun (1871) woro for what is called "Holico London," viz.. 3 853.092. Tho census taken this year will doubtless show a very groat Inrrnaso. Tho Registrar General's statistics for 1877 estlmato tho population of tho lloroimh of London ut 3.533,481, and klvob tho numbers of births for tho year at 127,737; deaths, 77,002. What]ls tormod tho "City of London" haa only a population of about 75,000. SunßOKiiiwt.--Enoni*h has boon said about tho Homo for Nogloctcd and Destitute Children.

Birth.

McMAHON.—On April 16, at tho rosldonco of Mr A. McMahon, Onohunsii, tho wiiooCMr M. J. MoMßhon of a daughter.

Marriage.

HARCOURTK-ITRKMBLIN. - On tho 13th instant,at tho Registry Omco, Auckland, hy tho llogistrar, George Hurcourto. M.A., to Lottie Annio Fremblin, both of Thames.

Death.

O'BRIrCN.—On April 19, at his rosldonco. Short landotreot, Mr Francis O'Brien; iigod 63 years.

Tho funeral will leave his lato residence Shortland-atroot, to-morrow (Thursday), at 3 p.m. Friends aro respectfully Invitod to attend.

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

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20, 1881.

For Ihc cause that lacks assistance, For tho wrong that needs resistance, For the future in ths distance, And the ood that we can do!

A COitUESPONDENT of a Wellington cou temporary under tho BUggcstive uom-de

plume " Raujs," asks, in view of the

description of the duties of aa " Inspector Generul" given by Dr. Skac, a question somewhat analogous to Mr Gladstone^ famous query : " Is the Church of England worth preserving?" Unlike the little brochure mcutioncd, however, "Hates" considers that such a question, applied to Inspectors-General, must elicit an emphatic negative. He concludes his inquiries in these words :—" I suppose tho Inspectors- Generals of gaols, police, and schools hava similar powers to those conferred on the

Inspector-Geiieral of Asylums, to visit, and write an annual report, and theu a grateful country pipes to the tune of £3000 a-year for the boon." However accurate or unjust this estimate may be of the functions of these highly-paid officers who are comparatively a new creation in our complicated and extravagant Civil Service, there cannot be a doubt that the Inspectors-General assist in a very con siderable degree to propagate a Centralism in officialism. Each of these officers is alto gether too big a man to exist without a Secretary and a Department; the Depart ment must make some preteuco of work to justify its existence, aud so the Central officials sit in the ''biggest wooden building in the world,"and devise intricate returns with which they may worry the local officials ; these returns have to to be " recorded," " docketed " and " red-taped," and are then stowed away in mysterious pigeon-holes, from which they never again emerge, and the officials at last becomes so worried with the work which they have created, that the chief really feels that he is one of the most hard worked fellows in the country, and the Government is parsimonious in not allowing him more assistance aud a bigger screw. It is amusing to watch the methods by which this official bureaucracy is built up where it did not exist before. We have a perfect example in two circulars lately is sued by Captain Hume, the newly-appointed Inspector of Prisons. The creation ot this office was recommended by a select coji rnittee representing both sides of the House, and appears to have been carried nem. con., Mr Itolleston proposing it as a member of the present Government, and Sir Geoige Grey speaking in its favour. Mr Swanson and Mr Murray appear, from the Hansard reports, to have been the only members who seriously questioned its utility. The selection was accordingly made by the Agent-General, and so far as we are aware, there is no question of Capt. Hume's qualification or experience in the latest systoms of prison management. But it unfortunately happens that under the Prisons Act of 1873, which embodies the existing legislation tor the government of colonial gaols, an Inspector-General is in no way recognised. All thepowers and duties which he might be expected to exercise, are conferred upon local Visiting Justices who are charged by tho Act with the decision upon the suitability of buildings; the classi fication, the enforcement of hard labour, I tho conduct of the officials, and generally with the management of the gaol. Captain Hume, therefore, has, like Othello, found himself without occupation, and he must forthwith proceed to make Eome. The powers of the Visiting Justices are conferred by express statute and the Government therefore have no authority to supersede them. But the In- j spector-General has hit upon a happy way ' by which ho may "double-bank" the, business, and secure to himself a final re vision of the decisions of the justices, thus getting the ultimate control of the gaols into his own hands. With this view the following circular has been issued to the Governors of the various gaols:—" Reports against officers being on the increase, gaolers are directed in future whenever an officer is fouad guilty of any offence by the Visiting Justices' to forwards full statement of the case to this office together with the Visiting Justice's decision thereon, and it will be submitted to the Minister of Justice for his decision as to the advisability of degrading or dismissing the officers concerned, in addition to such punishment as the Visiting Justices may have ordered. (Signed) A. Hums, captain Inspector of Prisons. Now, assuming the Visiting Justices to be competent men, and their decisions to have been i made fairly in view of the facts disclosed at a personal investigation, it is obviously unfair that their judgment shall undergo a revision in order to increase its severity. The centralising objects of the circular are very apparent. It is, moreover, an insult to the Justices, and an infringe ment of the plainly expressed intention of the colonial statute. I

But another circular issued by the Inspec tor-General has called down upon his he.ad more severe criticism at the hands of the Southern press. It is as follows:— Prison Department, Wellington, 27th January, 1881. Circular to Gaolers. Gentlemen,—My attention has been called to cases which have recently occurred in

which information has been communicated, without authority, to the public Press, ap parently by members of tho prison service. I have entiro confidence that this irregular conveyance of information is a practice to which the great body of the prison officers would not stoop; but however few may bo the officers in fault, their acts cause extensive mischief by sowing suspicion, and by "discrediting the service. lam of opinion that such breaches of official coniidenco arc offences of tho gravest character that a prison officer can commit, and should, when discovered, be visited by instant dismissal. To be read to tho officers on parade.—A, Hume, captaiu, Inspector of Prisons.

The Captain is manifestly green in colon ial ways, and has a deal to learn. In Groat Britain, doubtless, the public will stand a good deal of autocratic government without murmuring, but in tho colonies, we like to know what is going ou in our public institutions. It requires no argument to enforce the importance of such publicity after the Into disclosures about Wel lington Asylum. If Unptniu Hume is worth his £GOO a year his system ought to stand quito as milch or more daylight than the colonial gaols have stood already. At any rate the colony is not prepared for the establishment of bastile, from which tho groans of tho prisoners cannot reaah the outside world by any chink. It is not too much to say that these circulars and the other performances of the Inspectors-General, have gone a long way to shake the former perfect trustfulness in tho value of these ollices, and the opinion of " Hates," with which wo opened the present article, will gain converts very rapidly.

THE LATE EARL BEACONS FIELD.

By cablo to-day wo loam that the illness which for some days past has created alternate tiopos mill fears for tho life of Earl ! licaconsticld lias had a fatal termination. Ho died at the advanced ngo of 75, having retained tho brilliancy of hit) faculties till tho last. A brief sketch of hit) career, which wo tako principally from " Men of the Time," will doubtless interest our readers :—Tlio Kight lion. Benjamin Disraeli, K.G., eldest son of tho late Isaac D'lsracli, Esq., of Bnulenham, Bucks, tho celebrated author of the "Curiosities of Literature," was born iv London on December 21, 1805, and became un author wbilo yet n minor. In 1825 Ins took tho novel reading public by surprise with "Vivian Groy," followed ut intervals by "Tho Young Duke," "Hen rietta Temple," "Contariiii Fleming," " Al roy," and other brilliant works of imagina tion, Aftor extensive travels in the East, ho returned to England in 1831, and con tested the borough of Wycombc, being de feated by a small majority. In 1837 he was elected to tho House of Commons for Maid stoue, which constituency he exchanged in 1841 for Shrewsbury. In 1547 he was re turned for the County of Buckingham, iv which his estate of llugbendeu Manor was situated, and which he has continued to re present to tho present tune. He ad hered to Sir X, Peel's party until that Minister became a convert to t lie doctrines of tree trade, and from that date allied him self closely with tho Conservative party, of which ho bocamo tho acknowledged leader in the House of Commons after tho death of Lord George Bentiuck, He was Chan cellor of the Exchequer under Lord Derby's three administrations, and on the resigna tion of that nobleman in February, IS(iS, was appointed by the Queen I'riiiie Minister of England, which ollioe ho resigned at the end oi tho year. On the Liberal Govern ment being defeated on the Irish University Hill by a majority of 3 (March 12, IS7^), Mr GUidstouet2iulcrc(ihisrcsigiiiition to Her Majesty ; and the Queen having accepted it, sont for Mr Disraeli, who, however, do dined to take oflicein tho circumstances, Mr Gladstone accordingly reconstructed his Cabinet, and remained iv ollice till tho com mencement of the following year when most unexpectedly, after the Parliament had beeii summoned tor tho despatch of business, ho rashly resolved on an appeal to the nation. The returns of tho general election tho first which occurred under the system of tiallot— were completed on February 27, 1374, and showed a total of 351 Conservatives and 3UL' Liberals, inclusive of the Home Kulera, whose allegiance to the Liberal cause was by no means to bu relied on, Of course Mr Gladstouo, without meeting Parliament, at once resigned, nud Mr Disraeli .suc ceeding Mm in the Premiership, formed his Cabinet early in March. His administration in the ensuing six years is matter of contemporary history. Its distinguishing feature was tho English diplomacy during the Turko-Kussiun war, although the policy of tlio Government may ho regarded as having been largely in-

flueuced at that time by Mr Gladstone's active agitation, based on the Bulgarian atrocities, and tho popular feeling winch it excited. The purchase of the Khedive's shares in tho Suez canal was considered tlio most brilliant stroke iv the earlier part of Mr Disraeli's term of office,

and the despatch ot the ludiau troops

to Malta, tho Anglo-Turkish Treaty, and annexation of Cyprus, with the Conference at Berlin, which was at tended in person by the Premier, the chief events ot the latter part of his administration. In 187G ho was raised to the peerage under the title of Beaconslield, (the title previously borne by his wife), this work of the House of Commons being con sidered too heavy for him at his advanced

time of life. lie was decorated with tho order of the Garter after tho Berlin Con ference in 1878, Early in ISSO, when

' Parliament had almost run out by eflluxion of timo, Earl Beaconsfield ' dissolved the House aud appealed to the ! constituencies, the only manifesto published _ by him during the contest being a letter to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland upou tho im [ portance of repressing Irish obstruction. Mr Gladstone, in a series of election ' speeches of almost unprecedented brilliancy, delivered to the electors of Midlothian and ' published throughout the length and : breadth of the land, aroused tremendous popular enthusiasm, and the election re sulted in an overwhelming majority against 1 the Conservative Government. Earl : Beaconsfield resigned before Parliament met, and was succeeded on April 28 by the Gladstone administration. Since Earl Beaconsfield's retirement he has published a novel under the title of " Endymion," in which political celebrities with whom he has come in contact during a long public career are etched. Tho work (some extracts from which are given in another column to-diiy) is not, however, likely to contribute much to his reputation, although the price paid for it by the publisher, £10,000, is perhaps the largest lump sum ever given for a novel. As a public speaker the late Earl was not equal in fulness and breadth of general knonledgeto the Hon. Mr Gladstone. His style was somewhat slow, and his words apparently well-weighed. No man per hajis was better acquainted with the consti tutional history of his own country than Earl Beaconsfield, consequently his speeches were in this light, trustworthy and instructive. Earl Beaconsfield was an honorary D.C.L. of Oxford and Edinburgh, a Privy Councillor, a Trustee of the British Museum, a Governor of Wellington College, an Elder brothor of the Trinity House, a Trustco of the National Portrait (Gallery, and a Deputy-Lieutenant for Bucks ; and was a Royal Commissioner of the Great Exhibition of 1851. He was installed Lord Rector of tho University of Glasgow, I Novembor 19,1873. [and re-elected to that oflice in November, 1874 Among his publications since his entrance on political life,are "Coningsby,"" Sybil," " Tancred," and "Endymion," works curiously com pounded of politics and fiction : " A Vindication of the English Constitution," " A Biography of (Lord G. Bcntinck," and "Lothair," a novel, 1870. An early poetical work, entitled "A Revo lutionary Epic," was ropublished in 18G4. Earl Beaconsfield was married in 1839, to Mary Anne, only daughter of the late John Evans, Ksq., of Branceford Park, Devon, and widow of Wyndham Lewis, Esq., M.P. The lady was his senior by (iftecn years, but her fortune contributed greatly to his success by furnishing him the means to follow his political career. The union is also said to have been a happy one. In acknowledgment of her husband's official services, Mrs Disraeli was raised to the peerage of tho United Kingdom, as Vis countess Beaconsfield, November 28th, 1868, her husband not then choosing to tako the title and retire from the Home of Com mons, a course which, as we have Raid, he pursued some years later. The Vicountess Beaconsfield died December 15th, 1872, aged 83. The title will die with its first holder, Earl Beaconsfield haviDg neither heir apparent nor heir presumptive. His wife, who was 49 when he married her, and who lived 33 years afterwards, had no issue. The Earl's only relation is his brother, Ralph Disraeli, Deputy Clerk of Parlia ments, who has one son, Coningsby, born in 1867. Some time ago the Queen offered to make the title go to his brother, but Earl Beaconsfield declined. The descent was only in the (ale male, and Eyrl Beaconsfield purposely kept it so.

Wo would draw tho attention of the charitably disposed portion of the com munity to tho fact that old linen is urgently required at the Hospital. It is much used for binding up wounds and sores, and tho I supply which is usually to hand, has run \ short. We feel sure that tho needjwill be quickly supplied. I

In the paragraph in our issue of yesterday ancnt tho dangerous railway bridge near Helcnsvillo "Sunday week" should havo been " Saturday week." As no trains run on Sunday, tho report would be likely to mislead many Auckland gentlemen who have to travel in the direction of Helens ville imd neighbourhood for pleasure and otherwise.

On Saturday last a match was played between the juveniles „? Onchunga and Otahuhu on the ground of the latter result ing in a victory tor the home team, Howard and Harris played well for Ouehunga, and Ellerslie, Gould, and Day, for Otahnhu, and tho bowling of Plumly and Watts, for the latter was very good. Tho scores wore, Onchunga—lst inniugs, 32 ; second innings, 47, Otahuhu — lst innings, 59; second innings, 30.

There can be no doubt that fever is still very prevalent in the city and suburbs. Three cases of typhoid, and one of scarlet fever were received into tho Hospital during tho lust week.

The social gathoring of the members of the Hobaon Company, A.X.8., last even ing was a pleasing and satisfactory one. The hall was tastefully decorated with Hags kindly placed ut the disposal of the com mittee by Captain Sinclair, of tho schooner Sybil. There were about seventy couples present including members of the Thames llauniki Engineers and Thames Navals. Tho evening's entertainment comprised a number of choice musical selections by lady and gentlemen voculistn and a (select dance, tho whole proving vory successful. Mr 1). McCaithy acted as M.C. Mr Davis ami Mrs llortz provided tho music. A cricket match which was played be tween Onchungu and Otuhuliu hocoiml elevens last Friday resulted in a victory for tho latter with clovou runs to spare. The scores woro :—Otahuhu, first innings, 30 ; second, 80. Oiiouunßn, find innings, 58 ; second, 48. For Otahuhu the highest total scores wore:—Veitch, 2',); Fitzpatrick, 15 ; and"]). Water*, 14, i(' or Onchunga tho only double figures were Mahoney, 3G; Ciillcn. A very handsomely illuminated address, presented by tho workmen of tho Union Beach Mine to Mr \V. Slr.iuglian, the retiring mannger, whs on viow at Upton and Co.V to-day. Tho address accom panied a quartz pendant also tho gift of the men of the mine, who testify thoir regard for Mr Ktranghau in vory cordial terms, The illumination, which had been done by Mr Shitor, is exceedingly handsome. We havo novor seen it excelled. Tho border in of Moral design, and in tho initial letters symbolic representations of mining work*, lias been ingeniously embodied. It is well worth inspecting. The second entertainment by Dean's Minstrels at tho Lonio-ntreot Hall lv.it; night was equally successful aa that of the preceding evoniiig, New itenw wcro pro duced, and altogether the event nave general satisfaction, The ball which fol lowed was largely patronised. Tho annual tea meoting and entertain ment at tlio Franklin Hoad Primitive Methodist Chapel were largely attended last evening. An excellent tea was pro vided, under tho courteous attention of ladies. Mr John Ellyett presided ut the mooting, and delivered a thoughtful opening address. Tho other speakers wcro the Revs. Joseph Loug, Jamo< Guy, and Mr Gcury. A number of hymus were sung mid recitations uivcu by the scholars of the Sunday-school iv ft pleasing manner. An interesting cricket match, which wan played ut Otahuhu between the second eleven of tho local ciub and the 4]pha eleven, was won by the former on tho result of tho first innings. The scores wore :—Otahuhu, lirst innings, 107 ; second innings, 71. Alpha, first innings, 85. The highoat scorers in the two innings for Ota huhu wero K. Waters, 50"; Carruth, 2!); ISarr, 20; Veitch, 20 ; Wliitmorc, 10; and Howard (not out in the first iuniiigs) 17. For tlio Alpha team, in one innings, Hay made 1G ; Frost, 13 j McDortuot, 7; Kol |iatrick, 7 ; White, G : Dewar, 5 ; Crauch, 5. Messrs Waters Veiteh ;and Howard bowled for Otiiliuliu, mid Messrs Kilpatriek, Jackson and Crunch for tlio Alpha team. The annual soirfco of the Edon Tent (No. 2) nf Kiichilbites in celebration of their 7th unuiversary was hold on Monday evening in the ISewmarket Hall, which was filled with members and frionds, Mr George Kent, 0.U., in tho chair. The Chairman having referred briefly to the two-fold pro gramme of tlio evening, culled upon Mr L. i.bidding to read the report of the year's progress nod preaout position, botli of which were of a Botisfactory character. From this interesting document wo gather that ninety members havo biton initiated— forty-soveu being good on the book. Tho sickness of tho year had been heavy, £53 ISs (id, having been disbursed to sick members ; still the Tent has £15(> 9i GJd to tho credit of the sick fund, and £11759 11 id to tho funeral fund, making a credit total balance of £273 15s (id. The entertainment which followed was of a good character, com posed of a glee, "Sound the Clarion," by the company. Miss Hammond sang " liar the Door" and another Scotch ballad very correctly. Mr Littlewood sang two senti mental songs, Mr Ncald represented the comic in three compositions. Messrs Paqc and Whisker held a dialogue, "The Bachelor's Warning," creating much applause Kecitationa were given by Mr Kedfern, "A Temperance Story ;" Mr Page, "The Saxon and thn Gael;" and Mr John AValker, in a very effective manner, "Jim Bobbin." Miss Bruce accompanied tho several singers ou the pianoforte, and performed selections of music. Much dis appointment was felt at the non-appearance of Professor Nairu, the celebrated ventrilo quist, as liv had promised to attend with his dumb friends, "Tommy and Biddy." After waiting some time in vain for the Professor, Mr John Jenkins endeavoured to amuse the audience with a series of his sketches from life and character. The whole closed with the loyal anthem. I

Au " Iriali Catholic" writes at consider able length rebutting Dr. Wood's defence of MrParuell. lie says Dr. Wood has caused surprise by his championship of Mr I'urncll and the principles of the Laud League, and add* :—" Many of the most influential and cultured of the Irish Roman Catholics, both lay and ecclesiastical, arc comprised among Mr Parnell'a most determined foes. It is prim.t facie, not a religious question that is now agitating the heart of Ireland, butlittlo consideration is needed to prove that it is a question between anarchy and irreli<>iou on the one hand, and law, honesty, and Chris tianity on the other. It surely must pro voke a smile when one, who has followed with even moderate attention the events of the past year in Ireland, reads in Dr. Wood's letter that Mr Parnell's party is " the party of loyalty, justice, and right throughout the world." The operations ot the Land League have almost everywhere been characterised by remorseless tyrauny and the terrorism exercised by its "courts" over honest, law abiding persons has paralysed trade, and rendered the arm of justice powerless to punish the perpetrators of crime. It has been proved to demonstration by Mr Forster that the meetings ot tho League throughout the country have been regularly followed by a crop of outrages, thereby showing, either that crimes wero not sufficiently dc | nouucofl by tho agitators or that the peasau \ try could not properly comprehend those line discriminations bctwocn landlordism and landlords which tbo moro wary of the speakers sometimes employed. I assert that many of the speeches of Mr Parcell were direct iucitemeuts to outrage. When he advised the absolute aud merciless ostra cism of every person who took a farm from which another had Loon evicted, that the childron of such a one should he shunned by the other childron at school, and that not even necessaries should be supplied him, it is easy to see how the impulsive and ill-in struclod peasantry would construe his words, and what estimate they would form of the guilt of the unfortunate victim. Regarding Di. Wood's opinion as to the meaning to be attached to the letters ad dressed by the Pope to the Archbishops of Dublin, I think tew will agree with your i correspondent that they were not intended to censure in the prudent and courtly language which the Curia always employs those methods which have been adopted by Parnell and tho League to crush all oppo sition to their echomes. Whatevor dis claimer Mr Parnell may make, it is plain that he has something in common with the Parisian Communists, and that, his schemes aro tainted with the Revolution. His calling for the assistance of Victor Hugo and Kochefort, tho former a socialist poet with out any political influence, and the latter the man who counselled the sacking of Notre Dame during tho Commune, exhibits his utter want of political sagacity and his unlitness to lead an honest aud generous irjinded people in the path of social and constitutional reform. I cannot but say that I think Mr ParneH's action all through this unfortunate agitation has been prompted less by a sincere desire to obtain a prac ticable reform of the Land Laws than by peisonal ambition and a determination to force himself into a prominence—by appeal ing to the worst instincts of human nature— which he never could have acquired by his very poor talents and his inexperience of and proved incapacity in political affaire,"

\V. H. Leckie, son of Colonel Lcckie, of Wellington, who had become insane while working in tho Waitoa swamps, jumped from Mr Northcroft's trap, while crossing Hamilton bridge, and fell 54 feet into tho rivor, turning over and over in his descent. He struck the water head-first and swam, apparently uninjured, to shore, where he was re-captured.

The police have in their possession a bath and bucket, in addition to a blanket and axe, and would bo obliged if the owners would call at the station and identify them as early as possiblo, in order that the per son suspected of larceny may not escape justice.

The To Puke settlers continues to display commendable energy in pushing on build ing operations and clearing and plouguing their land. If they have already accomp lished so much, notwithstanding all they have had to contend with from the absence of roads, what will they do once this diffi culty is removed ? The To Puke peoplo are icvidently the right class of settlers, and.tho ntroductton of a batch or two of peoplo of tlio same stamp might work a wonderful change in this part of the East Coast :— " Bay of Plenty Times "

The man Wells, whoso head was injured some time n»o at Button's malt-house, Hobson Brewery, and who was reported to be recovering, had n, bad attack of erysipelas last week, lie was to have left the hospital that dny, but became ill again, and his head swelled up greatly. Hot fomentations were applied, and the patient was subjected to tliu treatment usual in such cases. Ho is now out of danger, but the disease has not yet loft him.

To tho Editor, Sir.—For "Nemo's" in formation I would state that Constable McConnoU's services consisted in taking tho names of witnesses and collecting evidence generally, as to how the accident occurred ami the position of tho two carts at the tiiuo, which, I havo no doubt, will bo a moro convincing proof in Court, as to who is tho aggrieved party, than Simon Fraser having promised a boy siaponco to bring a constable.—l am, &C, KICIIAItD WAUNOCIC.

Captain Fairchild, of tho s.s. Stella brought several very largo lumps of obsidan from Mayor Inland to Auckland thin morn ing, and those curious on such subjects may sec them on hoard. It nsubstanco tho colour of coal, quite an brittle and very Rimilar to tho glass from which ale nud porter bottles are made. Tho whole of tho Western aide of Mayor Inland is iiaid to bo covered with great blocks and it is to bo regretted that they cannot bo put to some good use and rendered profitable.

A debtor liamod John Dalboth applied for and received his discharge from bank ruptcy this morning at tho Supremo Court. Mr Justice Kichmond questioned tho man upon several points, and, to the great amusement of thoso in Court, tho inter rogated individual persisted in addressing His Honor as " Kight Worshipful Sir." At the close of tho examination, Mr Tyler remarked that ho hud not previously been aware that Ilin Honor was the Master of a Masonic Lodge, but that tho bankrupt hud evidently discovered such to be tho fuct. Tlio Judge laughed good-huinouredly ut this sally, and tho incident altogether was tho occasion of much pleasantry.

The match at Kaukapakapa resulted in a victory for West End by 40 runs. Some >:ood scoriuft was made by Spry, Woods, S. Walker, and Simmx for West End, nlso by Camacell, Frood, and A. McLeod for tlio district's Club. The following are the scores :— Went End : Ist and 2nd innings— Spry ll>, 13 ; Wallace 5, G ; Waymouth 5, 5 ; Baker 2, 0 ; It. Woods 17, 4 ; Hanna 0, 3 ; Kimmg 10, 4 ; Lewis 1, 2 ; Bucon 0, G ; S. Walker 0, 11; J. A. Walker 0,0; ex tras 5, extras 11 : total for two innings, l'Jfi. Kaukapakapa : Ist and 2nd innings —Camsccll 12, 3 ; A. McLeod 4, 23; Cauudlo 5, 0 ; Frood 13, 0 ; L. Glanvillo 1, 10; Goodwin 1, 2; Weetman 2, 2; Lind say 0, 1; McGrogor 0, 0; Shanks 0, 2; Astalddiston, not out, 0, 2; extras 1, ex trns 2 : total for two innings, 18G.

To the Editor: Sir, —It is really surprising the scenes that can bo enacted in somo of tho principal thoroughfare* of tho city on a Sabbath without any interference on the part of our polico authorities. On the two last Sundays the most disgraceful proceed ings have been curried on by a woman iv the neighbourhood of Wilson's Terrace to the thorough disgust ot tho neighbourhood. She has boon in an unsightly state of in toxication, and commenced business last Sunday afternoon by breaking the windows of her own house, throwing bricks at the door, etc., and then adjourning to the road wiiy to dance a hornpipe, nil the time using most beastly language. Tho sceno attracted a iircat ctowd, but not a policeman until hnlf-an-honr after slio had got into licr house ugain. I understand the polico have been spoken to about this person, but no action li.ik yet been taken to put a stop to the nuisance.—l am, &c, iNELSON-STKKET.

The first innings of a cricket match be tween the West End Second Elevcu and tho Helcnsvillo Cricket Club, wa.« played at Helensville on Saturday, and resulted ill favour of West End by 11 runs. There was good play by Ihuinu (not out) 22, aud Lewis 11, for West End ; also, A McLeod 17, and Smcaton 11, for Helensville. It will be seen oy the sub joined scores that extras wcro the highest scorers iv each innings. The following aic the scores :—West End—Spry, 5 ; Sinims, 0; Waymouth, 0; Woods, 0; Lewis, 11; Wallace, 5 ; Hanna, 22 ; Cheescman, 2 ; Chapman, 7 ; Baker, 0 ; extras, 33. Total, S5. Helensville—Smeaton, 11 ; McLeod, 17; Binstead, 2 ; McLeod, 9 ; Caumlle, 3; Bacon, 0 ; Goodwin, 10 ; Camscill, 5 ; Cahill, 0; Harris, 0 ; extras, 17. Total, 74. The second inuings was played on Mon day, and resulted as follows : —West End : Total, GB. Helcnsvillc : Total, GO. The West Endcrs, who thus won by 19 runs, play to-day at Kaukapakapa against the club of that district.

Madame Lotti Wilmot, at homo for con suluUon evory afternoon and evening. Aiesmer i»m and Spiritualistic investigation,-Wharf Hotel, CJuoen-streot.—(advt).

Remember that the initial coupon for the " Obsorvor's " Easter gifts (first prteo a Surra of Furniture, sofa, 6 chairs, &c, &c), magnifi cently upholstered in rop cloth), will bo pub lishod In Friday's " Observer." A now exciting Btory, ontitled Plaguk Smitten, is also to bo commenced In that issue.—[advt,]

A public tea meeting will be held to-mor row evening at tho Congregational Sunday school, Now North ltoad, commencing at 6.30. p.m.,— Bpeeohos, musio, &o.

A soirde nnd concert will be held to-mor row ovonintr in Northooto Hall, in connection with tho church of Ht John tho Baptist, includ ing a tea and musical programme, and in which Mr Claudo Brook, A.A,, and other Auck land vocalists will take part. A band will start from tho wharf at 6.10., aud ro'urn to Auokland after tho concert for tho bandit of visitors.

NARROW ESCAPE FROM DROWNING.

A MAN named William Fisner (or Cot tercll) bad a rather narrow escape from drowning at an early hour this morning having, whilo in a state of drunkenness, fallen ovor the Qucon-street wharf. About throe o'clock a.m. one of tho Islanders named Fou, belonging to tho schooner Sovereign, heard a man crying for help, and proceed ing in the direction thus indicated he found Fisher splashing about in the water alongside the Sovereign apparently in a most exhaustod state. .Fou, notwithstand ing that ho had a very sore arm, which was in a sling, jumrjed in and caught hold of the man. Having but tho one haud he was unable to pull Fisher out, and called to a person on the wharf (whoso name we were uuacquainted with to lend him a little jissistancy. The man thus appealed to also jumped into the water, aud by their united efforts the unfortunate subject of drunken ness was safely landed on board the schooner. He was rcry weak, and Fon gave him a drink ot hot water, which seemed to revive him somewhat. Ho waß subsequently handed over to the police. At the Police Court this morning he was charged with drunkenness, but, as he had / to be sent to the Hospital, the caso was re manded for eight days. Great credit is due to the rescuers of Fisher, and more especially to Fou, who was suffering great pain from a wounded arm, which is un der doctor's treatment.

When Fisher was admitted to the Hos pital he was suffering great pain, and this was believod to be the result of his long immersion. Hot fomentations were applied, and he is steadily recovering. There is uo appearance of any bones having been broken.

A wise man says, never marry but for love; but sco that thou lovest what is lovely. Mistross : "Mary, this venerable gooso is tough enough to break one's teeth."— Maid: " Yes'm ; don't you tell me, ma'am, that you wanted it for a "piece do resist ance 1"

Why women an so soon, is an interrogatory that answers itaolf in our knowledge of their natural proclivity to negleot the means of. build in*,' up thoir frames. Entering into the married state, or habituated to domeatlo labours, they trudgo and toil, and exhausting their powers, grow callous to the results, and fall into sedentary habits. Unmed to buflot with the world, they have nothing to oall their activities into Bitty, save within the narrow limits of home, little reciting that a persistent and judicious ueo of Uaolnho Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatio Schnapps will tone their systems and lit them for even higher onterprisoß than they are wont to espouse.

CABLEGRAMS.

[Reuters Telegrams.]

The Death of Earl Beacomfleld.

LONDON, April 18. Eakl Beaconsfield died to-night. Hi 8 Lordship Buffered a severe relapse, and succumbed to its effects.

The Dying Scene.

LONDON, April 19,

A bulletin published this morning with reference to Earl Beaconsfield's death states that atter a severo relapse which His Lord ship suffered during the night he sank rapidly and breathed bis last at half-past four this morning, The attendants state that His Lordship passed away without much pain, and peacefully as if sleeping. The news of the Earl's death has been received with universal sorrow and regret throughout the country.

THE EASTER ENCAMPMENT,

LONDON, April 18,

The usual Easter Monday review was held to-day at Brighton. Twenty-five thousand volunteers took part in the pro ceedings. MINISTERIAL CRISIS IN ITALY.

ROME, April 18,

Signor Cairoli and his colleagues have withdrawn their resignations, which they tendered in consequence of an adverse vote of tho Chamber of Deputies, and have again resumed the Government of the country.

AUSTRALIAN.

ISLAND CRUISERS,

SYDNEY, April 19.

M.m.'h schooners Alacrity. Beagle, and Conflict havo loft this port under sealed order?. It is believed they are proceeding to tho Islands.

SUPREME Court.- This Day.

Civil Sittings.

(Before His Honor Mr Justice Kichmonn.)

Tlio Court opened at ten o'clock. Thomas Jknkins v Uknry Elliott- Mr E. lleakcth announced that the matters iv dispute had been referred to arbitration, so that the time of the Court would not now be taken up with the hearing of the ""Tames Mazzisi Tunny and Phoebe Tunny v. Adam Brook.—On the applica tion of Mr Theo. Coopor, who stated thut the litigants had arrived at an arrangement of their differences', the caao was withdrawn. John Ohaelks McCoumick: v. Joseph Mkkuick. — This cane was also with drawn from the record. There was no appearance on behalf of the pluintill, and Mr E. Heskcth (who had been retained for the defence) said that lie had been made ucquainted with the withdrawal of notice ot trial, bo that there was evidently no intention to proceed at present. Thomas Edwin Fitzqekaldv. Hkmana Whitk.—Thin case van undefended, but the jury were aworu and gave a verdict for the plftiatilT. The action was brought to recover possession of land, and the issues were quite of ft formal character. Tho jury decided that the land had been granted to the plaintiff, and that the defeudant had been iv wrongful possession. Silt MICHAKL SKYMOUHV. ItOUT. HUT CHINSON.—Mr Tyler, instructed by Mr Coleuian, appeared for the plaintiff. The defendant did not appear either personally or by counsel. Tho plaintiff is resident in England, and his agent (Dr. IShortland) thereforo brought the case to recover posses sion of certain property belonging to his principal in Victoria-Street, near the junc tion with Chapel-street, which pro perty tho defondant had occupied Ifor length of timo without paying rent or acknowledging the ownership. A number of witnesses having been heard, and no defence being forthcoming tho ißsues were answered in the plaintiffs favour, while tho measure of his damages was assessed at £56. The defendant will now uavo to yield up possession. The Court adjourned till next Monday at 10 a.m., when tho special jury cases will be taken. They nre two in narnber, viz: National Hank of New Zealand v. Beedell and Field, and Palmer v. Bruce.

MINING NEWS.

Golden Star.—The mine manager reports: The road has been completed, a paddock formed for tho quartz, and driving again commenced. The men have been put on to continue the main tunnel further ahead, as we are convinced that another body of quartz is running parallel with the one we have been following. We are sure of this from the number of small stringers and the water that is issuing from the right hand sido of the drive-if so it must be but a short distance away. Another object which we have in view in continuing the main drivo is to cut what wo call Kice's leader, from which good crushings were ob tained, and the course of this main tunnel was directed to intersect, and is the leader spoken of by the Acton, and of its where abouts lam aware.—E. R. Edwards.

Success.—The ground is still hard which makes the reef small at present. lam ex pecting a change every foot I get ahead, as 1 am getting under the soft ground in the level above, aud where I got good prospects. During last week I have been getting good prospects, and to-day I got about six pounds of specimens, which makes me believe there is something better ahead. The Queen of England has made a start in No. 2 level. The reef is small, with no gold, but some good looking stone. We intend to continue this level going North as far as possible, and in the first soft ground I intend to put a rise and start stoping; or, if required, for air, continue the rise through to No. 3 level; I also intend to open out on tho reef, going South, aa there is very good looking stone.—PETER Reid. Old Caledonian. —The reef intersected in cross-cut No. 1 level is very hard with cross.graiu stone. Very little headway has been made in consequence. The reof looks very well, and almost all kinds of minerals which indicate goldbeariug stone is con tained in the portiwns gone through. The discovery of the two reefs has set at rest all doubt about their existence. No. 2 reef in No. 3 winze looks very promising, and car ries a quantity of heavy minerals. The reef and surrounding country are of a promising ) nature, nnd as soon as the hanging wall is I reached I shall get a trial crushing.—T. 13. Hicks, April 17. i Kctranui Hill United.—Teutonic: Stoping is being continued by nine men. The lode is steadily improving in size as we net up in the stopo. The colour is changing from blue to brown, and at tho battery the daily takings of amalgam are steadily iu creasing,aUhoughstillfarfromrich. Poverty. The ground immediately under Pearce has been stoped out to the floor of bis drive. The No. 1 winze is being nunk by nine i men in order to find the juuetion of Pcarce's nnd the Duke's leader. The winze is down 61 feet. The vein in haud is very small, aud as yet we have seen nothing of the Duke's leader. Junction and All Nations. —There is no change whatever in this division. Belfast.—There Is a slight im provoinont in the size and regularity of the lodo seaward of the distribut ing clay band, and we have soen a few colours of gold. Tako notice—We are now near the point at which I expected to find a junction of the voins wo saw in the cross-cut with our main lodo. .Battery— We shall not bo able to finish for ten days. The Company have amalgam as follows : — From junction general stufl 46 ounces, from Poverty aud Junction specimen 226 ounces; j from Poverty, Teutonic, and Belfast, goneral stutf 263 ounces. 1 think wo shall have well on to 250 ounces of gold when we finish. J. W. Walker, Thames, April 18th.

Southern Cross.—l intend to resume driving on the leader forty feet below battery level, as we had very good gold in the level before we commenced stoping, There is a fair amount of crushing stuff coming to haud from No. 4 leader, but I cannot noe any gold in the stone. The quartz being crushed from here is not show ing so well on tho plates as did last crushing. Tho riso on No. 3 lodo, 100 feet level, is now up a distanoe of 30 foot. The stone that is broken from here is full of mineral, but no gold has been seen it it. I havo been unablo to got the trial lots through. I purpose reducing tho men, as No. 4 loader has not come np to my expectations.— James Coutts, April 19,1581.

New Golden Cbown.—Battery Level: 1 have started the drive along the course of reef at this level. The reef averages two feet in thickness, showing colours of gold in every breaking dowii. The winze on No. 2is down 20 feet. The loader is 18 inchc3 in thickneas, and looks well with a little gold. The ground is very tight. 170 feet level: McPeako and party havo driven 28 feet. The battery has been working full timo during the week, aud tho amount of amalgam for that time is 155 ounces, making a total of 429 ounces,—A. DUNLOr, Thames, April 16.

PITT-STREET SCHOOL ANNIVERSARY.

The soirde in connection with the above took place last evening. There was a. capi tal attendance at the tea. At the after meeting tho Key, Thomas Buddie presided. Several ministers and teachers occupied the i platform. After the meeting was opened tho Secretary (Mr F. Mitchell) read the annual report. It stated inter alia that the School Industrial Exhibition, in Lome street Hall, for reasons which need not be enlarged upon, had proved a comparative failure—the exhibits were good, but the attendance small throughout, and tlie pro ceeds barely clearing expenses. It had seriously crippled the finances, as they were in arrears to the extent of £15 11s 3d. This want of funds has made itself felt in the library, which was in urgent want of liberal expenditure for books. Notwith standing those difficulties in money matters, an appeal from the Missionary Com mittees for assistance in purchasing a new mission vessel for the Islands, the school raised upwards of £10 for the purpose. The Band of Hope in connection with the school continued to flourish. Its numbers were increasing, the meetings were well attended, and an influence was being exer cised over the children which would be felt in years to come. During the year the new Sunday-school hymn-book, published by the Wcsleyan conference in .England, had been introduced. After a regretful allusion to the death of Miss Williamson, by which the school had lost a much-esteemed teacher, the report went on to the following si nistics for the year:—Officers and tcachors—male, 33; female, 21-54, being an increase of 13 Average attendance—moraing, 11, as against 10 in 1880, being ai increase of 1. Afternoon, 36, as against 32 in 1880, beiDg an increase ot 4. Scholars on tho roll male, 198; female, 233-431, being an increase of 13. Average attendance morning, 118, as against 103 in 1880, being an increase of 15. Afternoon, 301, ns against 263 in 1880, being an increase of 38. Tho highest attendance had been 321, Kegret was expressed at the loss of the services of Messrs William and James Buttle, who have been connected with the school from soon after its commencement. Tho executive officers for the year just entered upon were — Superintendents, Messrs I!. Arthur and G. Wjnstone ; Secre taries, Messrs Birch, Mitchell, Hooker, and Henderson, junr. ; Treasurer, Mr A. Hen derson ; Librarians, Messrs Partington and Kosser. High-street Sunday School: There was littlo to report in tho way of progress. The average attendance during the past nine mouths had been about 50, with about 100 on the roll. The officers hoped,with God's bles sing, during the coming winter to put forth greater efforts in their work, and try more faithfully to bring those under their care to nee their personal interest in Christ as their Saviour. The Treasurer (Mr Henderson) read the following financial statement : — Pitt-streot Wealoyan Sunday School Halance- Bhoct for tho year ending March 31,1881. Ur- & 8. d. To balance duo Treasurer, brought forward from last year .. _ . 15 9 1 Kxponses last soireo . 15 1 0 Grant to Hand of Hope .. _ ISO Ropairs to school .. ~ *" Hl7 0 School furnituro .. .. " 512 0 J. Kd«on, for hymn-books ' 8 15 2 AucklundHuntfay School Union " 15 l 8 Upton and Co. ~ .. " ]0 l c printiiiK ;. ;; 20 0 Teachers picnic expenses 1G 2 6 Festival oxponses .. 17 v> 1 Exhibition " ' ill 5 7 Paid Treasurer of Centenary Com. " 517 7 „ '1 roasurer Home Mission Fund 23 5 0 „ Treasurer John Hunt Misßion sfidft." :: :: •;. • •• 10 212 10 0 To balanco 15 11 3 £202 1G 6 Cr- £ s..d. Ry proceeds last anniversary .. 75 9 3 Proceeds exhibition 14 8 9 ~ Teaohers'picnic .. .. 21 2 0 Falo of hymn-books .. '14 Contenary collections .. .'.' " 517 7 Home Mission Fund collection .. .. 23 5 0 John Hunt Mission Fund collection 10 110 IJonation on behalf of Festival Fund .. 113 C Balanco duo the Treasurer ~ ..15 n s £202 16 6 MrK. Arthur, superintendent of the school, gave a sound and practical address on the various phases of Sunday-school work. The Key. Mr Hodgson addressed himself to the young, and his speech was full of excellent thought and counsel. Kcv. Mr laitt, and Messrs Henderson, Winstone, and Guson cave addresses. The choir rendered some excellent music during the evening. Votes of thanks and the benediction terminated the proceedingg.

THEATRE ROYAL.

" NORMA."

It becomes every day more evident that , the forte of the Simonsen troupe lies in . Italian opera. Their most pronounced • successes have been achieved in this class lof composition, and when they deflect ' from it they appear to disadvantage. The i performance of " Norma " last night, takes . rauk as oue of the triumphs of the season, i aud its effect should certainly be to warrant . and stimulate an increase iv the measure ,of patronage which has so far been accorded, far from unsatisfactory though that mea sure may have been. A company which can produce powerful and brilliant opera , with the comparative completeness that . can be predicated of last night's repre , sentatiou is certainly entitled to the ! liberal and cordial support of our musical dilettanti. The music of Bellini is singu larly sweet and melodious. He lias been charged with imitating the peculiarities i aud graces of Rossini instead of developing a style of his own, but the accusation is hardly just. There is an individuality about his works—a marked resemblance in them to each other—which will be discerned iby those who are at all conversant with them, while their beauties are such as can be fully and adequately appreciated by the modern ear. As a composer, he was content to write in accordance with the tastes and requirements of his age, the desire of gaining the applause of his generation rising superior to the ambi tion of founding a new school of operatic composition, or the hope of loading the way to a fresh departure in assthetic culture. Hia music is essentially of and for the people, and its e.outinued popularity attests its worth. "Norma" is Beliinis master piece. The Btory is fauciful aud yet simple, while the plot is one which ends tragically almost in spite of itself. The procession of events is slow and stately, and after reach ing what might be termed their climax, the mind uaturally anticipates a happy de"uoue meu t, but the confident expectation is doomed to disappointment. The characters seem to have a predestined fate to fulfil, and they blindly carry it out. Tho plot partakes of the classic character, and the libretto is solemn and pompous. The music with which it is wedded is well adapted for the expression of the feelings that are pourtrayed, and accords admirably with the picturesqueness of the scenes, and the dignified carriage of the personages deli neated in the work. It is martial and majestic, although, of course, not wholly so, for several passages, inexpressibly sweet and plaintive, occur to relieve and vary its gene ral character. The cast lastnightwasonc ad mirably designed for exhibiting theresources ot tho Company and doing justice to tho opera. Madame Simonsen sustained the title rOle,with her daughters Martina and Frances in the parts of Adalgisa and Clothilde respectively, while Signor Pala dini appeared as Poliio, the faithless lover, aud Signor Riccardi as Uroveso, the Arch- Druid The impersonation given of "Norma" was one of great strength and dramatic power, while the singing was dis tinguished by a clo?e acquaintance with the score and splendid execution. From her first entrance n pon the stage until tbc closing scene Madame Simonsen had the sympathies of the audience entirely with her, and in one or two situations their appreciation found vent iv enthusiastic plaudits. The beautiful caratina, " Casta Diva," with its slow time and sustained notes, was rendered with full effect, as was also the sub sequent passage with its rapid runs and intri cacies of vocalisation. The duet with Adalgisa was another excellent number, the voices of the two ladies blending agreeably. Tho trio between -Adalgisa and Poliio enhanced the effect which tho duet had produced and the act closed superbly. The principals were desorvedly recalled. In the third and fourth acts_ Madame's singing aud acting were quite in consonanco with the depth of the emotions by which the character she simul»tod is supposed to be swayed, and the finale proved most successful. Miss Martina Simonsen is well-suited both by her youth and slight figure for the part of Aaalgisa, while her training and vocal en dowments enabled her to render the accom panying music with manifest acceptance She was heard to advantage in the duet witL Pollio "Va Crudele," and also m the duet with Norma, to which we have already made reference, as well as in the air " Mira Norma," wherein she sup plicates the desperate mother to forco for the sake of her tender offspring her suicidal resolve. The ensuing duet was marked by great feeling and careful singing. Signor Paladini and Signor Riccardi both played and sang admirably. The

instrumentation was a notable feature of the performance, and rightly so tor the opera is one which demands a powerful and efficient orchestra. The' in troductory symphony was executed with great precision, and so also were the various inarcato movements which occur from time to time while the grand finale " Norma [che Fu " with tho warlike and animated passages which follow were performed with thrilling effect; " Maritana " is announced for to-night, and there is every reason to anticipate a crowded house.

POLICE COURT.-This day.

(Before W. J. Hurst, Esq., J.P.) OF THE TEIIiE OF ALCOHOL. - Anne Hamilton was lined 5s and coats, ! and William idl ackett, drunk and disorderly, hi, being bis first offence. A DUCKING. William Cotterell.who fell into the water from the wharf last night while in a state of drunkenness, had been sent to the hospital. The case was, therefore, re« niauded for eight days. OLD HANDS. The following well-known drunkards were sent to prison for seven days each with hard labour :—Patrick Keilly, William Kyan, and Mary Fitzpatrick. LAKCENY OF BILLIARD BALLS. William Allen was charged with stealing a basket and sixteen billiard balk of various colours, value 50a, the property of William Hamley, of Auckland, on the 18th inst. Mr Pardy stated that Mr Hamley, of the Auckland Hotel, missed the balls in ques tion, and gave information to the police of his loss. They were subsequently traced to the possession of the prisoner. Itemanded until to-morrow. EMILY'S PURSE. Mary Gathercole was charged with steal ing a purse, value 15s, and a pair of gold earrings, value 208, on the 19th instant, the property of Emily Austin. Mr Pardy said the prisoner was a young woman not known to the police, and in order to have a thorough investigation of the case a remand was necessary. Remanded until to-morrow. (Before Messrs W. J. Hurst and H. Brett, Justices of the Peace.) BREACH OF M.P. ACT. George Wilson, city contractor, was charged on summons with depositing offen sive matter in Montague-street, Newton, on the 25th February, contrary to the provisions of the Municipal Police Act, and Amend ment Act. Mr Tole appeared in defence, and pleaded not guilty. Mr Pardy briefly opened the case and pat in the Act, tho Gazette, and plan of the Karaugahape Koad district. James Hefl'rin deposed that he resided in the neighbourhood of Montague-street, and that offensive matter was laid partly in Montague-itreet, and partly on tho land. It consisted of sweepings, &c. Did not know who placed it there. * George Daniels Bevan gave similar evi dence. The matter was all across the street. There were rotten fish, potatoes, and other dirt. The smell was very bad. Complaints were made to him as chairman of the local Board, and he reported to the police. He was informed thai it was depo sited by Wilson's carts. Did not personally witness it. Cross-examined by Mr Tole. Isaac Wilcox, another resident, gave similar evidence. Constable Henry Clarke received infor mation of the nuisance from Mr Bevan, visited the spot «Dd reported thereon. He made enquiries as to who placed it there, and was imformed that it was Mr Wilson. Saw Mr Wilson who told him that he had been requested to do so by a person whose name he could not remember. James Kccnan, of Chapel-street, was the owner of property in Montague-street, and requested Mr Wilson to be kind enough to deposit a load there. He did so. To Mr Tole: Did not pay Mr Wilson. Gave him sixpence for an allowance. It was customary, simply for a pint of beer, or what he might like. The sixpence was not as pay. He gave the man sixpence on the same grounds. There were neither dead fowls nor fish heads in the matter, which was not offensive. One woman was rather noisy about it and made a bit of a stir. To the Bench : there is a public road near the spot, but the matter was removed several yards from the road, down on to the land. To Mr Pardy : he shifted it from the road to his land, which fronts Montague street, This being the evidence for the prosecu tion, Mr Tole addressed the Court, and submitted that there was no liability attached to Mr Wilson, as he was requested by Mr Keenan to deposit the matter, and he should be held responsible if any offence had really been committed. Under all circumstancs he would respectfully ask the bench to dismiss the case. Mr Pardy said the matter was the Bweep« ings of the city. The Bench were not inclined to dismiss the case, as Mr Wilson, although solicited to commit tho alleged offence, was the responsible party. Joseph Draper, carter, in the employ of Mr Wilson, deposed to carting the stuff on to Mr Keenan's allotment at the owner's request. Placed two loads there. That found upon the road was the diippingsfrom the cart. It was ashes, gravel, and waste paper. To Mr Pardy : Ho got the stuff ont of Chapel-street. There were a fev> potato peelings. Did not examine it closely when he tipped it. There was no dead 'animal matter. Thomas Fenton, labourer, considered there was nothing offensive in the stuff. George Wilson deposed that he had nothing personally to do with the deposits. To the Bench: He made no arrange ments with Mr Keenan. He received six pence certainly—for a drink hesuppoßed. He was standing by when the stuff was tipped. The Bench carefully considered the evi dence, and was of opinion that Mr Wilson being so near at the time of the shooting the latter was a consenting party ; but owing to a want of harmony in the evidence, and hoping the case may be a warning to Mr Wilson, the fine,, which might havo been £10, would be reducod to 5s and costs. This was all the business.

RE-OPENING OF TELE TEM PERANCE HALL.

This hall which has undergone an inner renovation was re-opened last evening by the Pioneer Good Templars with a tea and public meeting. The hall had a cheerful and inspiriting appearance, but the audience was small for the occasion. The papering and decorating work were by Mr G. Hill, good quality paper and color, illustrated with nine illustrations of inland scenery, life on the ocean, and mythological figures. The gas chandelier, under a roof ornament, aud ventilators, well adapted for currying oil' the bad air, were well adapted for the pur pose, and the credit of those portions of the improvements were the work of Mr Peace. About 100 persons sat down to a good tea, the following ladies presiding at the tables : —Mesdames Woodruff, Dines, Hill, Clifford, Thome, and Miss Thompson, Mr George Hemus presided as chairman of the evening, and delivered an excellent address on " Renovators," suggested by the appear ance of the hall, claiming the title for Good Templars, who wore renovators of homes, habits, society, and law, each of these phases being deliueated. The Tem plars' work, said th c speaker, was the general improvement of the people, The speech of the evening was by Mr Joseph Newman, who took for his text the word " Earnest ncs," and descanted with considerable power on the social and political aspects of templary, showing that Father Matthew and other great reformers owed their snecess to earnestness and consistency of conduct; but before a man could be thoioughly in earnest, conviction must take possession of his mind. Mr Newman recommended templars to get general information on the subject of alcohol from such books as those of Dr. Guthrie, "The city, its sin arid sorrows;" Dr. Miller, "Alcohol, its place and power," and tho very instructive text-book by Dr. Richard son ; and he looked forward to tho "Temperance Fly-sheets" to be issued by the Band of Hope Union, with anticipatory interest. Tho last speaker was Mr Uriffith, who dealt with the social aspects of the movement. In point of merit, with the exception of the glees by the Frith family, the entertainment wa« ft failure. The best thing in the way of recitation was a Shakesperian passage from Julius Cassar, delivered with care and correct enunciation by Mr Prince. The pretty ballad " For Ever," was successfully rendered by Miss Marson, Miss Goodacro acompanying on the pianoforte. Thisyoupg lady also gave "In the Gloaming." The glees by the Frith family (7) consisted of " Beautiful Spring," " The Robin'sSone." and " Social Glass," highly creditable. Mr McDerniott's "Spanish Champion" was but poorly rendered, with a break down. The reciter's facial contor tions, however, were laughable, reminding the listener of '" Pindar's Ode to an Expir ing Cat." A young man, Mr Entrican (satirically designated "Miss" by a con temporary), gave a rapid reading, "Down Among the Doctors," about half of which was not heard. Under this exaggerated

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR WEDNESDAY. APRIL 20.



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Special Advertisements. mHE Undersigned is a Purchaser of Bank of New Zealand Shares National Bank Shares National Mortgago Shares Loan and Mercantile Shares, A. SAUNDERS, 2, Insurance Buildings. vrr inkjj & H ALL HAVE REMOVED FBOM FORT-STREET tl'O TIIEIBI NEW PREMISES, m SHORTLAND-STREET. MEMO. TO TIIE PUBLIC. City Hall Arcade, Quocn-stroot, Auokland. Twelvo months ago we initiated tho Co operative Cash Systora, and our customora dnring that time have reaped thq advantages of a Co-operativo Society without taking any risk thoniselvos. GAKLIOK & CRANWELL. MEMO. Wo thank yon for tho earnest support during tho past yoar, and your unmistakable ver dict that you appreciate pur endeavours to givothoCashbuyoraconsidorableadvantage over tho Credit purohaser. GARLICK & CRANWKLL. MEMO. Oar percentage o£ pront on Drapery, Clothing. Millinory, and Fancy Goods has been very email indeed, and had not our Roturns been greatly increased, it would have proved a 1033> QARLICK & ORANVVELL, MEMO. WINTER, 1881. We have|the pleasure to inform you our Autumn and Winter Stock is now opon, containing numerous Novelties. Special attention has been paid to the selection of Dress Goods with Trimmings to matoh. Wo assure you we have the greatest variety and cheapest lines in DreßSes to be found in Auckland, and the Fancy Department bristles with French. English, and Foreign Articloa of beautiful texcuro and delicato finish. Kindly inspect our Stock and judge for yourselves. GARLICK & CRANWELL. Enumeration of Somk of the Lines in Various Departments— IN DRKSSKS: The "Handkerchief" Costume Is one that will be a favourite; the material is ex cellent, colours good, and is both Useful and Stylish. " Velveteens" will command attention Velveteeni—Plain. Stamped, and Pompa donr. in all the fashionable colours. Silk Plushes, will bo used for Trimmings. We have these In Various Qualities and all the Leading shades. Silk and Cashmere Pompadours, for Trim ming Costumes. Parisian Costumes Princess Cloths Alexandra Cords Cyprus Cords French Estamlnes Repps and Poplins French Merinos Cashmeres Carmalltes, Beiges, Sorites (all wool) Persian Cords Russell Cords Louisa Velveteen in Black and Colours Matalasso Cloth, job line half its value Fancy Flannelettes, Stockinettes Grampian Tweeds, Jackot Cloths Black and Coloured Lustres, &c, &c. UARLJCK & CRANWELL.



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Whon Honry Taylor wroto in lua omtnont work, " Philip Van Artovoldo," that " tho world knows nothingof its Kreatoatmon," ho mount to convoy tho idea that mankind woro not pro-ln formodof tho muster mlnas that would loavo thoir " form and proesuro" on tho Union in which thoy livo. Because groat men naturally make thoiiisolves known. Thoy stump thoir glory and thoir gimius on tho world. Many a, suiloror would havo rejoiced, could it have heun known anticipativoly or prophetically, that Udolpho Wolfo's Schtodum Aronuitio Hclmupps was in ombryo boforo it w&s born to tlio world.



The Churchwardens of All Saints', ac knowledge with tiuiuks, the receipt, through Mr Upton, of £5, from an anonymous friend of the Church,