SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

_~„ ic « Tiro JThlßßvenlnp, 7.19 HIGH WATaß| To . momnTMornln(?ißu BUNBKT.—ThIa Evening, 7.11! BUNKISE.—To-Morrow Morninit, I.U MOON'S AGE.-First Quarter, 28th, 8.20 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

LAST KVBNIMI, Calodonia, eohoonor, PiiUngor, from Norfolk bland TO-DAY, Binttarooma, s.a., Ohatflold; from Russell Wellington, s.s., Farnutmr, from Tanranga Flnsral, 8.8.. Norrls. from Moroury Bay Fanny Kelly, kotoh, Williams, from NRuntcuru

DEPARTURES.

RlnKarooms. s.b,, Chatflold. for tho South Kiitorpriso. brlattntlno, 8011, for Tain a Opotiki. sohoonor, Conines, on a trawling crnlio Fanny Thornton, kotoh, Koano, for Hokiangn PKOJKOTKD DKPARTUKE9, London—3 traoathro, January: Antnroa, to follow Lovuka and Buva-Tularo», January 8 Sydney—Horo, Saturday, 31st Melbourno and eouth-Kotorua, Thursday Taranaklnnd South-Womvka, Tuoaduy Russell, Whangaroa and Mongonul—Wellington or Glenelg, Monday , TaumnKft-UlouolK or Wolllngton, Monday or

Whanßarei and Whangarel Hoads — Jj>na, Saturday, and Argylo, Tuosday Mangawai- FiDEal, Thursday Moroury Bay—Flngal, Monday

VESSELS EXPECTED

May Qaeen, ship (K.L.V.H.), from London Balled August 27 Roman Knipiro, sniD (K.P.V.N.), from London, sailed October 22 Wellington, ship (W.M.0.K.), from London; Bailed Oct. 3 l'aroora, ship, from London; sailed Deoem ber Anazi, barque (J.D.W.N.), from London; cloarod September 5 Dunoraig, barque, from London: sailed Oct. 2? Crownthorpe, barqao, from London; sailed Oct. 31 Alcentlß. barque, (H.0.M.N.) from Liverpool, via Wellington Adamant, barque, from London Arnold Yon Blppon, barquo, from New York; Bailed October 31 Cabarfeldb, barquo, from Now York; Balled November 1 Kndfleld, barquo, from New York A. T. atallknooht, barque, from Now York; loading O. A. Ldttlofleld, barquo, (H.T.N.F.) from New York via Lyttelton; sailed Juno 18 Gwendoline, barque (J.H.L.Q.), from Now Yorlf, via Oauiam; sailed August 30 Annaboll, brip, from Sydney Daroy Pratt, brigantlne, from Dunedln Oonmru, brigantine, from Oamara Ettelle, sohoonor. from Dunedla Sybil, sohooner, from the Islands Mazoppu, sohooner, from Rarotonga Pirate, schooner, from Huahino Atlantic, sohooner, from Rarotonga Hollo Brandon, schooner, from the Islands

IMPORTS.

Per Caledonia, from Norfolk Island: 152 casks, oil, 278 bunches bananas, 10 boxes onions, 1 bale wool.

EXPORTS.

Per Agnes Donald, for Rarotonga—l3 oases galvanized Iron, 1 bags rioo, 10 boxes soap, 60 tins blßcuits, i cases sewing maohincs, 5 kega beef, 5,000 feet timber, 250 feet ridging, 20 saoks' flour, 1 colls rope, 30 packages sundries. Inwards Coastwise,—Adah, from Tairua, with 24,200 foot timber: Ghoat, from Orewa, ■with 26.000 feet timber, 43,500 shingloß; Makarau, from Whanstarei: Fanny Kelly, from'Whan garoi, with 32,131 feet timber. OOTWARDS Coastwise.—Howard, for Wnan garoi, with 120 sacku oats, 70 sacks wheat, 1,000 feet Umber. 20 bags Hour, 20 mats sugar and sundries; Ghost, for Omaha; Makarau, for WangaparaparA; Tomaki Packot, for Whau garei. The schooner Walwera arrivod at Norfolk Island from this port on December 13, The Union Steamship Co. havo received a cablegram stating that the now stcarmr Man i junri was succossf ally launched at Dumbarton yesterday. Tho Bchooner Caledonia arrived from Norfolk Island lost evening, tihe loft Auckland on November 30, arrived at Norfolk Island on Deoomber 0, after a fine weather paesago. Loft on December la; sighted Capo Brett on necomber 21, arriving In Auckland on Decem ber 21. Fine weather throughout. About a fortnight hancs Mcssra Harpor Bros, will launoh a large timbar-cirrylnK barge, 71 feet overall, 18 feet 9 Inches beam, and depth I feet. She will ba capable of carrying abaut 30,000 feet of timber. The (.8. Rotomahana left for Melbourno viil Southern ports to-day at, l p.m.. with the follow ing passengers; — Fir Me'bourne-Mr J. Buchanan. For Hobart—Mr and Mrs Trotter and daughter. For the South—Mr and Mrs Harvey, boy, and infant, Mesdames H.Walton, Andrew, Misses Jerram, Wayto,Howltt,Masters Jones and Andrew.Messrs C.Dunlop.K.Walton, J. Waters, and W. B. Taylor. Tho sohooner Agnes Denald cleared at tho Customs for Karotonga to-day. Sho sails this ovoulng,taking two muivos as passongerß. Tbe s.b. Wellington, which arrivod from Tauranga this forenoon, 'rings a Urgenambor o£ passengors, many of whom came out from London in the ship May Qaeen. The Hat ia as followsj—Saloon: Jtdgo Symonds and stall (3), Measra Davis, Anatiu, Unlbralth, O. K. Nelson, A. Barnett, Quintal, D. ABher, D. B. Mac doaald, Witt, Plercy, Faulkner, Stono, It. A, Molr, J. Palmer, Whlto, Charlos Cockerton, John Cookerton, John Dawson, Captain Barclay, Mr and Mrs Nash, Mrs Bower, Misses U. llurno, Drought, Nolson, Amelia and Sarah. Steerage: Messrs F, Swales, Horny, S. i.eiul- Imry, W.H. Potter, J. H. Ward, W. Porter, H. Reynard, Carton and sons (2>, Ford and family (5), Aldason (1), W. Sweetland. J. Kirwin, Dutton (2), B. Dorrien, Misses Smith, AloAskie and Scoit (2).

THE MAY QUEEN.

At Tauranga the arrival of tho May Qiuion haß caused the customary excitement, and to judgo by the columns of the local paper little else has been talked about ever since tho ehlp was known to ba outside Monti t Mongonul. Tho passengers seem to have been well satisfied with their voyage, and their content has taken the Bhape of a testimonial to Messrs show, Savilln, and Co., the owners. Captain Colvllle has also been presented with a letter, to which the names ot tha saloon passengers aro subscribed With re gard to the grounding of the ship, the "Bay of Plenty Times" of tho 17th has these remarks :— "As we fully expeoted, tho unfortunate hitch that has taken place in bringing tho May Qaeen into, port has been exaggerated by rumour, and the most alarming reports taava been circulated in other places as to tno safety of tho vessel and the passengers. The accident, if accident it may bo oalled, was in aigniflciiut in itself, and bo far as wa can ascer tain, not likely to lead to any danger, but for all that there is not the slightest excuse in the world why the vesfiel should not have been brought in and safely anchored without the slightest mishap. Wo intend to reserve our comments ot the transaction until we ascer tain by personal enquiry the exact oircum- Htancos; but this wo« may say, that it is a melancholy thing that whether from oarelessnes?, mismanagement or some other causa Buoh ilttle accidents have been for too common here. The effect outside is most in jurious to the port, and we fear that some or our neighbours will take advantage of this occurrence to damage tho place in the eyes of owners of vessels, both In New Zealand and in i Great Britain. It Is a pity that occasion should be given to those that seok occasion." "At high wfttor on Saturday the ship May Qaeen swung; ronnd, and her anchor let go. so as to be in readiness for towing. Unfortun ately the s,<i. Staff* was unable to cross the Opotiki bar, and at low water the stem of the May Qaeen again rested on tbe sand bank. Yesterday (Sunday) afternoon as the tide flowed, the sailors manned the capstan, and pulled on the anohor, taking the vessel more into the channel, aho is cow lying at anohor at the man-of-war ground, and it was evident, from tho boats that visited her this morning, that the interest in her arrival has not *W abated. It is expected that tho whole of the cargo for thiu port from tho ship Mar Queen will bo landed to-day. Tho date of the departure of the vessel Is not yet known, though it Is not likely sho will remain long after recovering her anchors." A later iesuo states that an enquiry into the accident will be held by Mr Hill, Collector of Customs, No onquiry, however, can widen and straighten tho entranoa 'into Tauranga har bour, and till tha ohannel has been so treated it Will always be risky to bring in each large ships as tho May Queen. After the experience which the Lady Jocelyn and the May yueon havo been Instrumental in teaching, it is not very likely that shipowners will bo alspoaod to send their craft to Tauranga direct. Tho s.s. Wellington leaves hero at 5 o'clock this oveninft, and will roaoh Tauranga early to-morrow morning. She will then make fast to the May Queen, and tow her olea? of the harbour te permit her to start for Auckland direct.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

The s.b. Itowona having boon bar bound at Waituru will not leave Onehunga for liokianga till to-morrow (Fridai) at! p.m. The p.s. Waikato having Ukon in a quantity Of cement, palings, rails, and gonerai cargo, proceeded down to Awitu Mills yesterday to till up with timber. She will then leave for Port Waikato. A fore-and-aft sohoonor, supposed to be the Fleetwing, ooal-laden, from Uroyinouth, was coming up the harbour this afternoon, There was no appearance of the steamers Kowona, Hannah Mokau, orLalla Kookh, up to 1 p.m. 'l'hoy are probably detained at Waltura through stress of weather.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Oamahu, this day Cleared : Veteran, barquo, with wheat, for QieonstowH,

Melbourne, December 21. Arrived; To Anuu, from the Bluif',

COMMERCIAL.

EvßNisa Star Oiilco, Thursday. At J. R. Lambert and Co.'a sale yards, Nor thern Hotel, yesterday, over 80 head were yarded, besides pigs and fowls. All sold realised fair prices. Tbe beet cuttle offered for sale were in prime condition. Messrs B. & A. Isaacs report of their sale last Tuesday—consisting of office fittings, iron safes, metal propeller, &c.,—that all the lots were quitted. The attandanoo was very large.and the bidding spirited. The entire sales were satis- Caotory. At the Haymarket on Tuesdaynotmany hides or sheepskins were oftared, but there was a largo number of small parcels of wool. There was no alteration in values. Bost hides brought 4d and Hi tho lb: tallow, 10a to 22s Cd the cwt; wool In grease, 7d to 73d. Store oattlo are offer ing in larger number than usual for this season of tho year, and both at Pukokoho and Drury there, was a full muster of stock. KoryouDg cattle a Bteady enquiry continues at late rates, oat giown cattle are comparatively negleotod.

Mail Notice.

Mails wzm/Cmsb as Ukdbii.—

This Dat.

For Tauranga, Ohinemutu, and Opotiki, per Wellington, at 4.30 p.m.

Friday, 23rd Instant. For Tairna and Whltlangl, por lona, at 11 a.m. For Wangaparapara, per Makerau, at 11 a.iv. For Hokianga, per Howcna, at 11 a.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at i p.m. For Whangarel Heads, Parua, Waipn, Whan ftarel, Tanglhua, and Mangapal, per Argyle. at 1.30 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at £.30 p.m.

Saturday, 21th instant. For Waiwera, Mahnrangi, Matakana, Manga wai, &c, per Rose Ca>ey, at 10 a,m.

Tuesday. 27th instant.

For Taranaki and Southern ports, per Wanaka, at 11 a.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, Wangaroa, and Mongonul, per Wellington, at 1.30 p.m.

Tuicbdat. 3rd January, 1882. Per S.S. Australia, as follows :—

For Sandwich Islands, United States ot America. Canada, British Colombia. Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. For money orders registered letters, and newspapers, at 11.30 a.m. Late letters bearing an extra fee of sixpence, in addition to the postage, will be received by the Mall Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. This mall will be dne in London on Mon day, 13th February, 18S2.

NOT*.—On Mondays,' 26th Instant, and 2nd proximo, the Post-office will only be open to tho publio between 9 and 10 a.m. " A delivery ot letters, &o, at tha counter will bo made on tbe previous Saturday nights from 7,30 to 8.30. All mails for despatch on these two Mondays will be closed at 6 a,m, instead of the nsnal advertised time.

8. B. Bisa, Ohlet Poatmaateb Chief Poet-offloe, Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

December 23, 1881.

Theatre Eoyal —Montague-Turner English Opera Company: "Faust," 8 p.m.

Rattray'a BulldinßS-Prand Bazaar and Fanoy Fair in aid of the new Catholic Churoh.

Ponsonby Hall—Christmas Tree and Knter talnment in aid, of Baptist Sunday-sohool, 6,30 p.m.

Choral Hall-" Messiah " by Choral Soolety, 8 p.m.

Annual General Meeting of the Industrial and Provident HaUding, Land, and Investment Soolety, at the office, Vulcan Lane, 7,3) p.m.

V.M.C. A.-Dovottonal, 7.39 p.m.

Birth.

WILLIAMS.-On the 18th instant, at her re sidence, Alma Place, tha wife of George Williams of a daughter; both doing well.

Death.

KICIiLY.-On December 22nd, Mary, tbebeloved wife ot Mr. John Kelly, aged 61 years. The funeral will leave her late residence. Mount Albert, to-morrow (Friday), at3p.m. Friends aro respectfully Invited to attend. WKLSH.-On32ndUeoember.lßßl, Annie Maria, daughter of Thomas and Mary Jane Welsh, Newton Road, aged 13 years and 6 months. The funeral will leave his residence at 3 p.m. to-morrow. Friends will please accept this intimation.

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

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1881.

For tho cause that lacks awiilancs, For the wronf: that needs resislanc Fat the fature in the distance, Aud the good that we can do.

At last, after months of suspense and anxiety, news of the fate of the American Arctic exploring vessel Jeannette has been received. The worst fears are realised. The ship was crushed by the ice as long ago as June last year, and tbe officers and crew escaped in boats. One ot the boats leacked Irkutsb, in Eastern Siberia, an im portant Russian town of 40,000 inhabitants. Another boat got to the mouth of the Lena, a large river flowing into the Arctic ocean. The third boat is still missing, and tbe i probability is it will never be heard of. Tho sufferings of the survivors must hare been terrible in the extreme; for even at Irkutsh at the present season of tho year mercury freezes. Details of the narrative will be eagerly looked for.

We beg to romlnd advertisers that as wo do not publish on Monday and Tuesday, the 26th and 27th iust., holiday announce ments should appear in our issues of to morrow and .Saturday.

On our fourth page to-day will bo found a number of interesting items, including reports of the distribution of prizes at the Grammar School and Rev. Mr Bispham's school, of the Masonic Ball, Onehunga, and the Prospectus of tho Canterbury Meat Exportation Company,

The only business at the Polico Court this morning was a case of drunkenness. J. IS, Macdouald, Esq., R.M., occupied tho beuch.

The Lincolnshire farmers shortly to be settled at Tc Aroha havo purchased thrao steam launches in England. Thoy will be placod on the Waihou Kiver.

William Gabb, who had bis left arm amputated about a fortnight ago, owing to it having been poisonod, is progressing very satisfactorily towards rccovory, in the hospital.

Tho Shortland ond of the borough of Thames is pretty lively just now in cou sequencc of the holding of tho Native Lands Court. A large area of land in the Piako district is being put through, but the natives have not yet received the money due to thorn on it.

At Ashburton yesterday, Richard Lan caster, a butcher, was fined £1 by tho Resident Magistrate for a breach of the new Gaming and Lotteries Act. Ho had held a rallle amongst friends on opening a new business, the prize beintj a whole sheep and three Jargo loaves of broad.

Another proof of Mr G. V. Stewart's untiring energy is afforded in the opening of a fiah-curiiig C9tubliahmont at Katikati. Fish of overy description aro abundant there, and ns the services of a competent man havd been secured, custom alone is wanted to complete a success.

Considerable interest js boing evinced in sporting circles regarding tho charge of assault preferred by Mr A. Si Kathbone against Mr W. Weaton, bookmaker. It comes on for hearing at tho Police Court to-morrow morning. The assault which forms the subject of the prosecution is alleged to have been committed in Tatter*' sail's, last Friday night.

Charles McLcod, unite of tho ketch Fanny Thornton, while engaged working one of the pumps this morning, fell suddenly on deck, complaining of .■> severe pain in thu loins. The captain assisted him ashore, and thence had him conveyed to the 11 ot pital. McLcod was iujurcd (Oiuo years ago by Borne timber falling upon hiai, an acci dent from which, it would appear, he has nevor quite recovered.

The beautiful arrangement of corals and shells under shade, by Miss Stodart, was a very noticeable feature at the Horuan Catholic bazaar. The woolwork cover t>y Mi-sHcs Mahoney and Darby was handsome aud picturesque, and attracted considerable attention from the visitors to No. 3 stall. A handsome piece of framed woolwork, pre sented by Mrs Lujuard, ia also well deserv ing of mention.

It is currently reported in the Wnikato that certain parties arousing thoir influence to have tbe venue of the next Native Lauds Court removed from Cambridge to the Waotu settlement, tho motive, it in said, being that tho cbancos of competition for this .same Waotu and other valuable blocks of land may bo lessened. Ihe natives fear this result, and arc making complaint, in which the settlers cordially join.

A cricket match will most probably be played in the Domain Ground on Tuesday next, December 27th, between representa tive teams of town and country players. Tliu] following, under tbe captainship if Muintord, will represent town :—Mumford, Testro, P. Dufaur, O'Brien, E. Bcale, C. Gardner, Lnnkham (2), Lynch, Biudon, J. Arneil. The match commonccs, at 10 a.m. nharp, and players are requested to bo on the ground punctually.

Twelve informations wore laid to-day by tha Collector of Customs against publicans and storekeepers in tho city and suburbs for breaches of tho Beer Duty Act. Them; prosecutions aro tho result of the seizures of unstamped beer and cigars which were made last Friday and Saturday by Messrs H. Parker aud Dlguau. All tho cases will bo taken at the same sitting, but the date has not yet been fixed. It is, however, almost certain to bo Wednesday next. The prosecutions are the first of the kind which havo been instituted hero, and considerable interest has very naturally been excited regarding them.

The half-yearly meeting of the U.A.C. Benefit Society was held in St. Patrick':) Hall last evening, there being a largo number of members in attendance. The officers for tho ensuing term of six months were elected, and installed by Past- President P. Lynch, The balance-sheet was also presented. It showed the credi table amount of £1,350 in the bank, which does not include Funeral Fund. The officers elected were:—President, Wm. Jennings; Vice-Preaidcnt, C. Little; Trea surer, James Clarke; Secretary, James O'Brien; Warden, W. Doran ; Guardian, W. Murphy ; Sick Visitors, E. Gargan and W. Murray. Dr. Teunent was re-elected medical attendant, and his honorarium in creased. The Branch has now a member ship of 220 adults.

At a meeting of bicyclists held last even ing in tbe committee-room of tho V.M.C. Association, it was decided to form a club without delay, to be called tbe Auckland Bicycle Club. There were 16 gentlemen present, who enrolled as membors. Mr E. E, Isaacs was voted to the chair. It was agreed that the secretary send a letter to J. E. Macdouald, Fsq., K.M., requesting him to accept tho presidentship of tho club. The following officers w»re appointed :— Mr W, Shera, captain ; Mr Bartley, bugler; Mr C. Bartley, hon. sec. and. treasurer. The following committee were chosen by ballot to draw up rules and regulations ;— Messrs R. E. Isaacs, R. Tudohopc, F. Rigs, W. Douglas, J. Chambers andF. Laurie, It was also agreed that a, committee meet ing be held at Mr Isaaca's office on Friday, 2,'iril inst., for tbe drawing-up of rules aud rcgu'atioiiß, to be submitted to tho general meeting to be held on 29th inst. A vote of thanks to the chairman concluded the meeting.

The following report of the Executive Committee in reference to tenders for School buildings was read at the meeting of the Board of Education yesterday :—Waipu Cove: School building—H. N. Campbell, £277 (accepted) j M. W. Armstrong, £295 ; A. Mackay, £298 ; G. Hatcher, £343 12s; D. Macrae, £349; J. Cornwell, £375. Man gonut : Teacher's dwelling—Wru. Gillot, £28 10s (accepted). Alexandra : Improve ments to school and dwelling—H. J. Baker £112 (accepted) ; A. Ahier and Co., £145. Newton East: Additions and improvement to school—Thomas Constabto, £76 (accep ted) ; Smith and Wooller, £87. The committee recommended the acceptance .of tho following tenders :— Mount Hobson; Erection of dwelling, girls' school—James and Denize, £524 (ac cepted) ; John Cornwell, £589; H. S. Jones, £605; W. Price, £655; A. Keycs, £667; George Heron,£694los; Thomas Constable, £757; H. E. Brabazon, £769; Scott and Coombcs, £784. Te Aroha: Erection of suhool—A. Boy or, £325 (accepted); Thompson and Sinclair, £376 ; A. Keyea, £379. Waikeikei: Dwelling—Charles Hayward, £379 (accepted); M. W. Arm strong, £395; A. Mackay, £415 ;A. Kccd, £420; A. Keyos, £460; J. and L Bissett, £593.—The chairman said that in each in stance the lowest tender had been accepted after receiving Mr All right's approval.

At the Onehunga Police Court yesterday several Board of Education cases came on for hearing. Mr Thomas McQuoid under took to send his two children to school, and the order was made, with cost 7s. Mr H. Parsons said his boy was over age; and tho charge was allowed to stand over for o fort night for the production of a certificate. In the case of a girl of Mr Parsons' an order was made with costs 7s. Another case was adjourned for a fortnight, for the production of the boy concerned. Where there is a non-compliance with the order made by the Justices the 93' d section of the Education Act provides for a penalty of 40s for every sucli offence. Civil Cases: Fitzgerald v. Lustier, £4 19s, medical attendance, judgment confessed— to pay 2s 6d per wcok; Grey v. Lusher, claim £3 12s, for carting, judgment for plaintiff; C. C. Fleming v. H. O'Neill. Mr Fleming, as chairman of the Oiiehunga School Committee, sued the defendant for £2 10s, for damages done by defendant's goats to young trees planted in the school grounds ; the bark bad been stripped from sovcral of the trees by the goats. As other goats besides defendant's - had been seen amongst the trees the amount claimed would be reduced to 20s and costs; judgment for plaintiff accordingly. There being no resident Justices of the Peace in Onehunga, in the absence of the K,M. in Waikato a Justice had to bo brought from Otahuhu and another from Mangare, to preside on Wednesday. Surely some of the residents in Onehunga must be eligible for the Commission of the Peace.

We are informed that in the action for libel, Jones v. Field, the plaintiff has made au uncoiiditioni.l withdrawal.

Tho annual mooting of the Industrial and Providont Building Society takes place to night at 7,30 p.m., at tho new offices, Queen-street.

Water consumers aro again reminded to pty the half-yearly rates, now due, during the present month. Miriam Clarko, wife of a Hokianga native chief, was admittod to the Hospital last week Buffering from an unusually large cancer in the breast. It has since been successfully removed by Dr. Philson and tbe patient is now doing remarkably well.

Wo notico that preparations aro already boing made for tho Christmas decorations by our leading tradespeople. During yes terdny aud to-day several boatloads of Christmas (lowers and indigenous ever greens were landed at the wharf.

Tho university presses of Oxford aud Cambridge will shortly supply a want that has boon felt by publishing tho Now Testa ment with tho Authorised and Revised Versions in parallel columns. A similar work, published in America by Messrs Porter and Coatcs, has attained a circula tion of 40,000 copies.

Dr. Schondorf's safety lamp for collieries is attracting attentiou. The lamp can only be opened with the help of a strong magnet. Tho younger Mr Bidder several yoars since constructed a lamp of considerable value on this principle, which has been used in several collieries. Surely lamps of this description ought to have some effect in lessening the number of colliery explo sions.

During the past two or three days there has been but little betting on the events of the forthcoming meeting,, Peeress colt continues first favourite for; the Cup at 45 to 20— rather Bhort odds when the company is taken into consideration. Maori stands at 100 to 20, Foul Play, King Quail, Badß worth, Kenihvorth (tk), and Hilda at 100 to 10. Poet's price is 100 to 12. The others range from 100 to 5 to 100 to 1, Kawcnata being quoted at the latter figure, Clarence tops the list for the Steeples at 2 ta 1, Mutan ranges at 100 to -10, King Don at 100 to 30, aud Lone Hand and Sportsman at 100 to 20.

It is reported that a magnificent "trou vaille " has turned up on the banks of the Loire. A fiahcrmau while seeking bait found in a round hole excavated in the clay of the shore a number of weapons and " bijoux." Some of these articles havo, it ia said, an exceptional value, being liko those discovered in Swiss lake-dwellings. The "find" comprised axe 3, hammers, gouges, pendants, bracelets, rings, parts of necklaces, bosses of shields, heads of lances aud javelins, fragmcats ot swords and daggers. These articles seem to have belonged to a weapon foundry. Of what age the various articles arc ban yet to be estimated.

Caledonian games arc to bo held in Ellerslie Gardens on Saturday week, 31st iust,, and should tha weather be line, there will no doubt be a very large attendance. Thn gardens have recently been doiie up, aud they are now most attractive, so that apart from tbe Bports, strong inducement is ottered w holiday-makers to spend the day at this most delightful resort, An excellent programme of sports has been prepared, in cluding a mile race, 200 yards handicap, nud sword dance. Entries closo next Saturday evening at tho Thistle Hotel. Special arrangements have been made with the railway authorities, by which trains will be run to the Gardens at frequent intervals for the accommodation of pleasure seekers. First-class return tickets will be issued at Is each, and second-class at lid.

The advantage) of the telephone were strikingly illustrated during Mr Gladstone's visit to Leeds. While tho Right Honour able gentleman was addressing tho mans meeting iv the Clow Hall, a number of gentlemen assembled at tho Liberal Club were cunblod to listen to the speech by menus of telophouiu communications between tho club and the hall. Tin: oluoes of tho National Telephone Company were connected with tho hall in the sainu way, aud there, seated round a table, a small company were ablo with the uttnoßt comfortto follow Mr Gladstone intelligently ia hia masterly oration. Tho telophonic rcccivor iv both cases was aUixed in front of tbe (IcmI; on the speaker's rostrum.

To-morrow (Friday) a grand Christmas Tree and children's cntcrtainmont will bo held in St. Matthew's Suaday-sclioolruom, commencing at 3 o'clock p.m. Tho tree will bo richly laden with Christmas offerings at an oven rate. In the evening Mrs Jarlcy'a wax-works will be exhibited to the Histonfciiod visitors, with new addition! and fresh developments, not shewn iv tho "Old Curiosity Shop." A number of toys, whistles, and trumpets will bo included among the simpler presents; alao, a suck ing pig and a modern bride cake, adorned with classical iignres, and sweetened to connubial taste.

At tho N.Z. University Matriculation Examination, which occupied the whole of last week, 14 students presented themselves. Their success, or non-success, will not be known for three months, a time of suspense which, it is generally agreed, is too Jong, Meanwhile they are making well-grounded complaints of tho difficulty of the Latin papor. It seems to have been quite un fitted at a test for students just entering the university, and some of the question* would doubtless puzzle even graduates. The piece set for translation was too Sard, and its inaccurate punctuation served further to veil the meaning. The gram matical portion was also of too abstruse a character. Of the other papers no special remarks need be made.

The monthly meeting of tho Piako County Council was held at Cambridge on, Wednesday afternoon last, there being present : Means U. H, D, Fnrgussou (chairman),' Cbepmell. J. O. Firth, Williams, and H. E. Whitaker. Tho engineer was instructed to meet the engineer for Tauranga County, and to con ferand report upon tbe Cambridge-'lau ranga road, for the construction of which Government has granted £2,000, A rate of Gd in the £ was struck on all rateable property in tho Patotcro outlying . district, and the following tenders were accepted :—Forming the main road from Te Arolu township to Wairongomai Creek, Smith and Grimes, £400; making foot track up Whaknpipi spur, O'Halloran and Dougherty, 7s 6d por cliaiu ; makiug bridge, and forming ap proaches in Bridge-street, Tc Aroha, James Lavcry, £20. The remainder of tho busi ness was unimportant.

To tho Editor; Sir,-I havo been patiently waiting sinco the committal of Plunimer in tho hope that you, over ready to do justice where justice is duo, would havo noticed the gratifying results which have been attendant on the arrest of Plum mor, Of course I refer to tho immediate aud marked ccseation of burglaries. I had also hoped that you would havo recognised the professional ncumen and skill of tho officer of police who was the im mediate instrument to tho detection, arrest, and committal of Plummer. I of course refer to Mr Pardy. Tho rcastfns for his reduction of rank and pay have always been mysteries to thuse who know him bost. Aud surely, now that this more than ever convincing proof of his profes sional ability is forthcoming, I sincerely trust you will not, in bare justice, fail to strcnuou ly urgß his prompt .substantial promotion. Not-morcly because ho deserves it, but becauso he has shown that he is an officer who, in the interests of the public, Bhould, par excellence, hold superior rank.—Yours, &c., ONK WHO KNOWS AND APPRECIATES.

The Board of Education voted £12 yester day for painting two schools at Mauku, and it was decided to grant a school boll to Huntley. The Dargavillo coramitteo for warded two accounts, one for £13 19s, drainage; and the other for £11 17s, gymnastic apparatuf, The expenditure had not been authorised, but Mr Mont stated that it was necessary. It was agreed to ask for further details of tho items for gymnastic apparatus. The drainatre account was passed. The City Comniittoe was authorised to make certain repairs to Wellcsley, Beresford, and Nelsou. etroot schools, trom tho school fund, Applications from Hotea Worth, Mangero, Mount Hobaon.Owharoa, Papakura Valley, and Patcrangi, Were deferred. Mr Hamlin, M.H.K., forwarded a letter statiDgthat the residents of Pollok had purchased a site, and urging that the Board erect a Bchool, in order that some 30 or 35 children might not be deprived of the benefits of education. It waa agreed to inform Mr Hamlin that any communication on the subject from tho committee would be considered. Tho cum mittee at Awitu recommended the erection of a school on a site offered by Mr Wheclan; but there was another applicatiou from Manukau Heads, asking a grant of £50 to wards erecting a suitable school there in stead cf the present one. The consideration of the matter was deferred. An application from Cabbage Bay for a school had been received and referred to the Inspector, who now reported that there were 35 white chil dren and 25 Maoris who would attend the school if erected. He also reported as to the sites offered. Deferred for further in formation, m

I The opening match in connection with < the Hnmicy Gun Club eventuated at 1 Elleralic Gardens this afternoon. •

A curious bugcy accident occurred in Symonds-strcet yesterday, opposite the Edinburgh Castle Hotel. Passing that point, the vehicle, which belongs to Mr A. B, Wright, of Mount Albert, suddenly (lo use a nautical term) parted amidships. The driver was precipitated to the ground, but escaped injury, while the horse, no doubt astonished at the eccentric conduct of tho buggy, bolted down Symonda-sttcct, dracging after him the shattered forepart of the trap. The frightened equine was not stopped till he reached the Army and Navy Hotel, at the foot of Upper Queen-street.

Tboso who value their canine friends should take care to register their dogs for the ensuing year early. All dogs at large or otherwise after tho Ist of the following month without the new collar are liable to be destroyed. The Hcgistrar aud assistant will be on the look-out early next month for oil'endors. Tho oilico for registra tion is on the ground floor of the City Council Chambers, High-street. Dogs, however, are net allowed within the ollicc, but owners aro requested to bring the old collars or size of the dog's neck to facilitate prompt attention to their require ments.

Tho grout decrease in the mitutinal muster of drunkardß at the Police Court of late caused a green member of our staff to surmise that the eflorfs of the many tem perance societies in Auckland were at last beariug fruit. He was assured, however, that the present inanition in Ibe drinking business is usual at this time of tho year— that it merely is the calm that precedes the storm, and that in a week or two Constable MeGilp's thirsty army will mus ter in its normal strength every morning, for presentation to the awful majesty of the law. There is not tbe slightest fear of our "good drinking meu" permitting tbe colony to suffer any loss of revenuo through their abatenption.

• Xmas Gifts.—Full particulars in thin week's Observer.

A Sporting Man Discoveked Hidden in an Auckland Hotbl.— Bee this week's Observes.

"Aktful DODdKit's" Notes on the Coming Races In this week's Oiisicrvkk.

The Russian Conquest of Australia, —Seothiswcok's OBBEitvun.

A concert and Christmas Treo entertain ment will bo hold to-night at tho Alexandra ntroet Primitive Mothodlßt Hobool-room at half tiast 7 o'olook. His expected to be a very excel lent airair. Admistlon, is.

The first ordinary general meeting of the Auckland Turkish Hatbs Company (Limited) will bo hold at Mr Kandorson's office. Inßuranoe BuUdlngs, on tho 30ch hint., at 3 o'olook, when the directors' report and balance-sheet will bo preaontod and one director elected.

Christmas lieef! Christmas Beef I - Kecolved two flrst-olass prlzos and a pioco of plate at tho Auckland Show for fat oxen. List of prices :-Whole(alo: Qr, or side of beef, 2Jd; carcase of mutton, 2jd: pigs, 3Jd and id. Retail: Mutton, 2d, 3d, 4cl; roast brief, 3jd, Id, sd; pork, 3d to 5d ; lamb, from 2s per qr: veal, 3d to 6d; l»r«e quantities of ox tohguoe, oornod rounds of beef. Bait legs of pork, Canterbury hams, suet In any quantity; oornod beef, 3d; In barrels. lUOlbs, 2001D8, and SOOlbs. 2Jd, delivered on board or railway; atinoiphorlo sausages, Id per lb; German sausage, lid, Discount to the trado. Warrant everything the very best quality, — Gkobob Hulmk, Butcher, Quoon street, Auckland.—[Advt.l

THE OPERA.

"LUCIA DI LAMMK.UMOOU."

Tub loug iutcrval which ha» elapsed Rincc the production of lyric drama on the boards of the Theatre Royal, was terminated last night by tho appearance ot the Montague- Turner Opera Company. Preceded as they were by a high reputation, not only as re gards the principals, but also with respect to tbu company at largo, their advent has been anticipated with no small amount of pleasure, from the fact that tho production of good opera would constitute au agreeable feature iv our holiday festivities. We have every reason to think that our pleasurable expectations will be fully realised. Donizetti's opera "Lucia" was tbe work sclcctod for the opening performance, founded, as its titlo imports, upou Sir Walter Scott's, tale of tho " Bride of Lam ■nurmoor." The librettist has taken consider able liberties with the text, for indeed, as has been truly said, in nothing except in locale, aud in the names of the dramatis personal docs " Lucia " resemble the paiu ful and tragic history of Lucy Asbton's sorrow.

Tho iolo of tho unhappy heroine was assumed by Miss Anuis Montague (I'rhna Donna Ansoluta). Jfosscssing a full, clear, and withal a very sweet soprano voice, a vivid conception of the character she was pourtraying, combined with histrionic abilities of a very.high order, this lady's efforts wore entirely satisfactory. From her first appearance, to the point where she makes her final exit, Miss Montague carried the sympathy and approbation of her audience with her, as was evidenced by the frequent ebullitions of honest applause which greeted her. Both her acting>nd singing in the Bridal scene were all that could be desired, while the Mad aria, in the exuberance of florid passages with which it abound^, afforded her ample opportunities for displaying the flexibility ana rare qualities of her voice.

In Mr Turner we bave one of the best Edgars we have seen on the colonial stage. And that not alone because of his splendid vocal powers, but also because of his capabilities as an actor. Witness his efforts in the Malediction scene which follows closely upon the wonderful sestetto in tbe second act. It not unfrequently happens, with artists of less discrimination, that this passionate denouncement ot the unhappy Lucy by Edgar is somewhat overdone. 1 hey tenr a passion to very rags. Bat Mr Tur ner has evidently studied his Shakespeare to some purpose, for in the very toi.ent of his passion ho has acquired a temperance that gives it smoothness. His singing in tho duet, " Sidla tomba," placed him at once on good terms with his audience, ia which position a further acquaintance only terved the more firmly to establish him, (Though the opera was given in KnglUh, wo may be allowed to indicate the nioro prominent numbers by names most readily recognisable by those to whom tbe opera is best known.) Perhaps the line quality and compats of Mr Turner's voice was displayed to the best advantage iv the aria "Frapoco," and in the concluding sccna " Tv, cheDio," with his rendition ot which it would, we think, bo hypercritical to find any fault, Mr Farloy (Sir Jticury Ashton) is too old a friend for us not to know that be can sing better than he did last night. He was evidently suffer ing from hoarsened, though not to such an extent as to disappoint others than those who know of what bis fine bass voice is capable. The artiste to whom tho part of " Bide the Bent" (or Raymond) was allotted, possesses a bass voice with a good lower register, and used it with good effect in the concerted music, but, - from some cause or other, in his solo passages, he did not always chord well with his accompani ment. This, however, may be attributable to some temporary indisposition perhaps. For tho rest, their efforts did not in the least detract from the perfectly satisfactory performance of tho opera.

The chorus, comprising several old fami liar faces, though numerically weak, was efficient; as also the orchestra, amoigst whom we must specially mention tho fluto, the work for which all through wns admir ably performed, notably the delicate obli gato to Lucia's florid aria above alluded to. This was really beautifully played. Of the concerted vocal pieces, that was a arand performance of the scstcttc, " Chi ma frciia " —it fairly brought down tho house. To conclude, we havo no hesitation in eaying that it is but seldom such an oppor tunity of hearing good opera is offered v?. Of this, the presence ot M. Leon Caron as musical director, is in itself a sufficient puarantcc. To say more would be super fluous, for with him it may be regarded as a truism that " Good wine needs no bush." Tonight "Faust" will be played.

WAR-SHIP SIGNALLED.

Just as we go to press a foreign man o'-war is signalled She will arrive abcut 6 o'clock.

MINING NEWS.

Golden Star G.M.Co.—Since my last there is nothing new to report. I broke down the quartz from rise in drive going west, bat no gold is shewing; still tbe stone looks well. Will continue risiDg in the week, then carry a stope west. Tho face of main drive still continues the same, full of good-looking stringets well miner* aliscd.— Henry Cowe.

Word comes from Chicago that Boston is excited over the news of an advance in the price of beans.

There is much' said, and well eaid, too, about the planets in October. Now it would be but faitio tell us something about October ia the planets.

EXPLOSION OF CHEMICALS.

LuSS OF LIFE,

[BY TKLKGBAPH.—OW^SfOKRHSPONDKNT.]

WELLINGTON, this day.

At 7.15 last evening the neighbourhood of Lambton Quay was startled by a loud explosion like the discharge of heavy ordnance, A cloud of smoke rose from tbe rear of the premises occupied by Messrs Barraud and Son, and many persons ran in tbat direction. Those who got thoro first climbed on the fence, and for a minute or two could discern nothing among the sulphurous smoke that filled the small yard. The first surmise was that nothing very serious had occurred beyond the ex plosion of some chemicals and shattering of adjacent windows. As soon as the smoke cleared off, however, a terrible sight was revealed. Mrs Anthony, the wife of Mr Barraud's manager, sat on the ground covered with, her own blood. The lower portions of her arms had been blown off, and her face frightfully cut and gashed. In the doorway was her littlo boy about two years of age also bleeding, and wailing moat pitoously. Amid the confusion and terrible trouble of the moment no one seemed to know how the accident happened. The nearly demented husband of the injured woman picked up the shattered remnants of hia wife's hands in the yard. It appears that during the day Borne blue fire, such as is used at the Theatre or for holiday illuminations, had been made for forward ing to Masterton, and the composition had been found somewhat dangerous, so much so that a small explosion had taken place, scorching the hand of the assistant. About half a pound of this mixture was in the earthen ware mortar, in which it had been blended, and Mr Anthony says that he had been burning off some of this in small portions in the back yard to get rid of it, and had left them to light up tho front shop, when he heard the explosion. His first impulse was to run to the iront door and look out, and then instantly it dawned on his mind that the composition had exploded. He ran through the passage leading to the yard and there caw his wife shattered asdescribed, and moaning feebly. A neice of Mrs Anthony, who resides with the family, saya the de ceased lady, after watching her husband burning up Borne ot the stuff, said eho would pour some water into the mortar and wash the whole contents down the drain, thereby getting it out of harm's way. That she proceeded to do, when immediately the ex plosion took place. The child, we are happy to say, received no harm beyond a slk'ht flesh wound. An idea of the force of the explosion can be gained when it is mentioned that fragments of the mortar were hurled through tbe air right across Lambton Quay, and one piece struck a passer-by named Smith upon the chin, causing a slight wound. After performing tbe opera tion of amputating both arms at the shoulder it was found tbat the lower jaw was broken, the temple lacerated, the right eye burst, and one of tbe legs 'much con tused and lacerated, and it was decided to take the sufferer to tho hospital, but with very faint hopes of her long surviving, and at seven nunutes past nine she died. Sbc could speak to the last few moments, and called feebly with almost her last breath for " mamma." The little child had a miraculous escape, it being near its mother when the explosion occurred. The only injury it received was a slight bruise on the left elbow, and the face, near the eyes, h slightly marked with puwdcr-staius. The composition, Mr Anthony says, was made up from a proper formula, tho ingredients being chloride ef potash, sulphur, verdigris, and charcoal, and lie is not able to account for the explo sion. Possibly the sudden agitation caused by the splash of cold water was sufficient to cause the explosion. The friends of the deceased lady reside in Christ church, and the tidings of tho terrible affliction would first reach them through the morning paper.

[I!Y TELKOnAI'II.—fRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Wellington, Wednesday. A dreadful accident occurred on the Lambton Quay tins evening. At 7.15 p.m. a loud explosion was heard, aud it was dis covered that tome blue fire composition in the rear of Messrs Barraud and Son's chemist shop had exploded. Mra Anthony, wife of the manager of the business, who was iv tbc yard with a little boy three years old, received terrible injuries. Both hands are blown off clo3e below the elbow, the right leg ie broken below her knee, and the jaw is broken, besides the face fearfully cut aud gashed. She was taken inside, and medical aid obtained. The several injuries were attended to, after which the poor aullVrcr was taken to the hospital, but no hopes at all are entertained of her recovery. The child fortunately escaped with a few Blight bruises. Mr Anthony and others in tbc shop are at a loss to account for the explosion. They had been making blue tire composition during the afternoon, and found it to be dangerous, as somo of it exploded, and singed the hair of an assistant About half a pound of the mixture was left in' the mortar, and Mrs Anthony had suggested that tho best means of getting rid of it would bo to wash out the mortar with water, and it is thought fey many that she was in the act oi doing this when the explosion occurred. The roport was heard fully half-a-inile away. The mortar was shattered to atoms, fragments being found at a distance of 100 yard?. The affair has caused great excitement in town, and much sympathy is expressed for Mr Antbony.

10.30 p.m. Mrs Anthony died at the hospital at nine o'clock this evening.

WASTE LANDS BOARD.

The fortnightly meeting of the Waste Lands Board was held this afternoon. There were present: Messrs v. A. Tole (in tho chair) B. Tonks, J. May, W. P. Moat, and Dr Campbell.

Mr Tonics.—The Commissioner con gratulated Mr Tonks on his return, arid ex pressed tho pleasure tho Board felt in welcoming him back.

SaLF.—Tho Chairman reported that ,'a successful sale of Crown Lands bad taken place at Gisborne. The amount realised was £2,736 10s.

Tk AROHA. — Tho Undersecretary for Laudf, wrote stating that the clause re. quiriug the construction ot a hotel at Te Aroha Hot Springs had been struck out of the conditions ot lease, ao that tho land would again be offered tor lease. Land Oedees.—Duplicate land orders for Messrs Barber and Carter, Te Aroha, and Harris and Jetton, Te Puke, wero re ceived from the Undersecretary for Lands. Neglect to Pay. — Nessrs Col boy, Kihikihi, McCabo, and Adam Laybourne wroto stating that they had, from various reasons, neglected to pay balance on their selections, and asking the Board to accept it now.—The chairman said they had no discretionary power in tho matter.—Agreed that tho letters be forwarded to the Minister of Lands with tho recommendation that the requests be granted. Tbmisfkb.—The District LaudOilicer at Tauranga forwarded an application from Mr Duncan to bo allowed to resign his in terest in a deferred payment section in favour of Mr Copeland.— Granted. Roads.—The Chairman of tho Tanranga County Couucil applied that defcrrci pay. ment roads at Te PuKo be approved of. — Granted. Applications for lines of roads through Government land from the Chair man ot tho Parua Board and Kcv. Baker, Kopuru, wore granted. ; Hastings.—Mr Brodie, Chairman of tue Thames County Council, forwarded an ap plication from twelve Thames settlers, ask ing that from twelve to fifteen hundred acres at Hastings lie thrown open under tho deferred payment They wero desirous of taking np about 100 acres each. —The application was rcfuued to the Warder, for his report.

AUCKLAND SHAREMARKET.

DECBMBKB 22. Bank ot N.Z.—Sellers, £23 Colonial Bank—lß3 ; Boilers, 48s N.Z, Insurance—Buyers. 80a; sellers, 82s 6d National Insurance—Sellers, 31s Colonial Insurance—Sellers, 133 63 Thames Gas—Sellers, 30s Union if ash and Uoor—Buyerc, £7 53 Auckland Timber—tellers, £7 N.Z, Loan and Mercantile—Sellers, £6 2a fill Bar ot Islands Coal Co.-Solloro. £0 10s Now Zotland Shipping—Sellers, £5 ISs 6d Northern 8.8. Co.—Sellers, 12s 61 Fisher and Co—lie. 11s 3d; sellers, lln 3d ■Alburnia—Buyers, 10s Kurimui Hill-Sellers, Ik Tokatea—Sellers. 13s Blackmore's—Sellers, 8s lid Kosa (West Coast)— Sellers. 20s Home Ku'o-Buyers, 3; 9 > JOSEPH NKWMAN, Chairman.

"A. M. " asks this oonundnim : " Why do the French cat lees than any other nation '!" Because one egg is always tat aw/for them.

MAYORAL BANQUET.

His Worship the Mayor (J. M. Clark, Esq.) cntcrtaiued the members and officers of the City Council at dinner last night at Canning's, a number of representative citi zens being also present by invitation. \ His Worship occupied the chair, sup ported on the right by his predecessor in office (Thos. Peacock, Esq,); and on the left by the Major of Pornell (IS. Walker, Esq.)" About 35 gentlemen sat down to a sumptuous spread. . v .. After the various courses bad been duly ! discussed, the customary loyal and patriotic toasts were neatly given from the chair, and drunk from fully-charged glasses, and with the usual honours.

The Chairman then proposed "The Mem bers of the Legislative Houses of New Zea land." In doing so, he said that he need merely express the hope that as many of those members were new men they would so conduct themselves as to retain the con fidence which they at present enjoyed. Ho trusted also that the Auckland members, while discharging their duty patriotically by the whole colony, would also give a special regard to the interests of this pro vince.

Mr W. J. Hurst, as the senior M.H.R. present, responded. - He said that be would abstain from any reference to party politics, and be knew that for this abstention he would be applauded, for It w*aa a character- ; iatic of the Anglo-Saxon race to drop un-: necessary causes of'difference after the struggle in which they had arisen had passed by. He felt proud of being connected with the New Zealand Legislature, for it was everywhere spoken of with respect and esteem. He hoped that the new Parlia ment would distinguish itself by furthering the true interests of the colony, and by giving it a fresh impetus in its advance along the path of progress. He fully endorsed the hope of the chairman that the Auckland ropresentatives.while giving their assistance in the shaping of colonial | con cern?, would not fora moment cease to keep a watchful and vigilant eye upon the par ticular needs and interests of their own great province. The position of a member of Parliament was an onerous and honour able one, and he trusted that no ono would be lost to a sense of the duties and respon sibilities attaching to it. Mr Thos. Peacock also replied. The new members, he said, had a great work before them in striving to make up for the absence of very many prominent politicians, who had either given up or lost their seats, He had no doubt that they would bring zeal and wisdom to the discharge of their duties, and also make a laudable endeavour to redeem some, at least, ot the numerous promises made by them from the hustings. Mr Peacock, as ex-Mayor, then proposed the toast of " The City Council." He said that it was with peculiar pleasure and a due sense of the honour conferred upon him that he fulfilled this duty. He had bueu connected for two years with the Council, and from experience, there fore, he could assure .the citizens that in their municipal representatives^ they had men who were inapired with a single minded desire to honestly advance the prosperity of the city, and to carefully con serve the interests ot their constituents. This was a very essential thing in the early career of a city, for mistakes committed then were often found to bo irremediable, and when not quite so to have at least most disastrous consequences. The people, of Auckland had no reason to be apprehensive of any such result, for their a (lairs could hardly be in better hands. i Councillor Crowther, as senior Coun cillor, acknowledged the toast. He said during the last twelre months no less than 150 meetings had been held, all of which the Mayor bad had toatttend. This made such heavy demands upon a gentle man's time as to leave him very little for attending to other concerns, so that no one could with justice disparage the importance of that position. He felt proud of the City of Auckland, and had a strong desire to see it extend Its borders by absorbing some of the suburban districts. It would then assume somewhat of its proper importance, although the duties might be rendered so multifarious by the change, us to make some averse to the suggested amalgamation. He had travolled a little of late, and he could cay with some confidence,that, so far as roads and municipal institutions generally wore concerned, Auckland would compare very favourably indeed with any of its neighbours. In whatever respect we were behindhand there was no neglect or short sightedness chargeable to the Council, for it bad dove as much with the means at its disposal as could be expected from it, and it had to deal very economically, with the municipal funds, Cr. Aickin also responded. He said that | bis ambition was to promote the enlarge ment of the city by every possible means, and thus add to its importance and extend itsspbereof usefullaess. The machinery that we had at present was adapted for govern ing more than a mere area of 610 acres, and besides the majority of our citizens resided in the suburbs- a further reason for annexing those districts. He did not wish to be associated with ail honester or more straightforward body of men than tbe City Council, and he felt as sured that in the discharge of their duties they were animated by a real sentiment of patriotism. Cr. Offer said that although it very often happened that the City Councillors got more kicks than halfpence for their dis charge of duty, still they retained an un flagging desire to do the best they could for their constituents.

Cr. Montague ascribed somewhat of the merits possessed by the Council to the ad vantages enjoyed by it in having been governed by two such good Mayors as Mr Clark and Mr Peacock. He was also in favour of the enlargement of the city boundaries, but the means taken to achieve this end should only be fair and equitable ones.

Cr. Aickin gave the toast of the evening, viz., " The Mayor of Auckland." Me said that tho gentleman whom he called upon them to honour was not a new comer, but one who had resided in their midst since his boyhood, who had distinguished himself by his private beneficence, and whose name was inseparably associated with tho history of Auckland, linked with every leading commercial enterprise, and connected with all our philanthropic morementi. As a Mayor ho had ptoved himself assiduous in his attention to duty, courteous to every one with whom he had been brought into contact, and hospitable iv his reception and treatment of public guests. The toast was drunk with great hearti ness.

His Worship thanked the oompauy for the cordial and enthusiastic manner iv which his health had been, drunk. Although politics were eschewed from that board ho yet would venture to proclaim himself a Liberal, Conservative in Corpora tion matters —Liberal in expending the ratepayers' money in useful and deserving works, and Conservative In (ceing that' while he was in office the character of tho city for hospitality towards strangers was conserved. -

Cr. Crowther proposed "Tho Mayor and Ex-Mayor of l'arnell, and the Chairmen of Local Boards"

His Worship, the !Mayor of Parnell (Mr R. Walker), Mr J. F. Clark (Ex-May of Parnell), Mr Thos. Macffarlauo (Chair man of the Graf ton lioad Highway Board), Mr J. H. Field (Chairman of the Ponsonby Highway Board), Mr R. T. Warnock (Chairman of the New ton Highway Board), and Mr G. D. Bcvin (Chairman of the Karangahape Highway Board), responded.

The Chairman proposed "The Past Mayors of Auckland,"-and, in doing so, re ferred to the obligations ho was under to his predecessors in respect of the work they had performed. Under their regime the waterworks were carried out, the abattoirs erected, our system of drainage improved, and the majority of the by-laws passed, so that his own duties had been considerably lightened ia consequence. The past Mayors und Councillors, therefore, deserved well of the citizens.

Mr P. A. Philips (iirst Mayor of Auck land), Mr F. L. Prime, Mr B. Tonke, Mr W. J, Hurst, aud Mr Thus, Peacock re plied. The Mayor, in a eulogistic 'speech, gave the toast of " The Corporation Officers." Mr P, A. Philips (Town Clork), Mr F. Brodie (City Treasurer), Mr W. Anderson (Uity Surveyor), Mr W. Errington (Water* works Engineer), Mr Woolfield (Inspector of Abattoirs), and Mr T. Cotter (Corpora tion Solicitor), returned thanks. Mr B. Tonks proposed " The Press," and the representatives of the STAR and " Horald " duly acknowledged the toast. Mr Eller then gave the concluding toast of the evening, viz., "'The Ladies," aud Mr J. M. Geddis responded. The remainder of the evening was spent in conviviality, the gathering eventually breaking up before midnight.

"Do you ever observe how very de votional Deacon Buifam ia ?" asked a good lady of her husband. " Yes, my dear ; the deacon is very devotional. Jtlo always keeps his head bowed in prayer till the contribution box has passed.'

CABLEGRAMS.

IBBUTKE'S I'KL.KOBAMS.J J

MARKET INTELLLIGENCE LONDON, December*) Consols further declined to-day m e», colonial breadstuffs, withouti n »3! change; Now Zealand securities, 10.4K wble declined to 104 j 5 per cent. 1889 w*. D> changed at 10-48, 41}; 1879-igMi?'■* ? 101* ; best Scotch pig irond fef ?' Clyde, declined to 535. lOlb<

MHE STORM CONTINUES. _A very severe storm continue! 'L the greater part of "bLv* m gale has been blowing for themst t° d days and has cause of further «»•*■' distruction iv many places D<"l<m» NEWS OF THE JBA NETTE " nil- I NEJ VYOttK.Dec 2 o i Intelligence has been received W garding the Arctic exploring ""j Joannettc. .News to hand is to tn« «»' that nhe'was crushed by i ce i n JnL 11 and was abandoned, officers andcrawt.u' to boats. One.boat loadl werarL^T by natives on Siberian Coast, and C B T i warded on to Irkutsk in Siberia lilt' boat reached the mouth of thrive,X* and its crew were suffering fearfully. t?.1 other boats are missing, and it is fearn/ i? who were on board have perished ! CONSTANTINOPLE, December^ j TURKISH FINANCE. i TheSunanhasissuedanlradi.Banoiioni,,,, the settlement arrived at between Tuffi'' Commissioners and bond holders' deleoX debt tbß payment of the «tS» THE FALSE- PROPHET. LONDON, December ». } ■ ! Intelligence is to hand from Africa «i»k • j false prophet, who had collected 2 600 ■ neRJ» r f»n«ti<*, > the Soudan, has w2 I cred 300 Egyptian troops. •""»»«. IuBVSSdfr correction of a cftble ■* [ LONDON MARKETS, LONDON, December 19. 1 . C ionso] »*l*ye declwed if an<i we qnoted to-day at m. New Zealand securitfes arc ■ | unchanged at the following quotations --5 % ?,ITr£ "A 40 loan ' 105 ' 5 V"«nTl889 ■ f2 5-a'l* pM 1879-1904 loaoAOll. 1 Adelaide wheat, ex warehouse, remains at - 565; New Zealand ditto, 52s ; Adelaide -| flour, ex store, 41s 6d; Australian tallow-! M Best beef, 39s 6d ; best mutton, 44s fid,

AUSTRALIAN.

NEW ZEALAND AND AUSTRALIAN WOOLS

MELBOURNE, Dcccmber2l, 1 It in announced that Government has do. I clined to co-operato with the other Ana- 1 tralian colonies and New Zealand in ' I measures which are being taken to induce I the Government of the United States W re- ' I duce the duty levied on wool importedfrom I the Australian colonies. B

SPORTING NEWS.

MORNING GALLOPS.

j Thk course this morning was very heavy, -j owing to the late rains, and several of the best horses were noticeable by their absence, Poet and Hilda were the first to strip, and. went twice round at half speed, finishing fast. Parameoa went twice round (in clothing)'slow. Hawthorne, the Wangamii steeplechaser, was sent three times round, stripped; he looks far better than he did, and moved freely. Mr Smith's tean>,,in charpe of Harrison, did some steady work, and Tim Whifiler went once ronnd, fast, going splendidly.. Day had King Don, Moonstone, Vacillation and Maori at work. Moonstone and King Don had a slashing gallop together, both going remarkably ; well. ;. Clarence, -with Derritt up, went three times round at -half speed; he it just the same as ever, and seems to like his work, Florence went once ronnd in her usual style; she will never break anything. King Quail was sent twice round, slow at first but finishing bard; he seemed to enjoy his spin. Envy filly, with a boy up, went'once round; she Ms >< beautiful mover and finished at a slashing pace. McQee's Nebula, with Twilight for runner up, vent the two .miles very well, finishing as though she wanted unothet turn. Foul Play, Badswortb, Lone Hand; and Tcnambra were absentee!. Maori, las usual in clothing, went once round at half speed. He wanted his head badly, and seems very fit. He has not been stripped for some time, so I can't form much idea of his condition; but bo seems all right, "

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE'S COURT.—This Day.

(Before J. B. Macdonald, Ksq., R.Mi):

JUDGMENTS FOR PtAINTIFW. Georgo Hnlme v. Thos. Kelly, £1 2s, coste fit ' 6a 6d. (Mr Tyler for plaintiffj.-J. Bwnd r. Mm Koane. £1 (non-suit), costs £1 3b 6d. (Mr B, .' « Hesketb. for defendant). — Jas. Goodacre V. Matthew H. Front, £5, promissory note,ODßta 12«.-Peter Smith T.Wm. Weber, £7lOs.jeat S ot hoose in Macukau Road, costs 16s.—Thoa, Kaulderv. W. W. Batte, £1 la. oostaJJl 2a 6d. (Mr Goorga for plaintiff, Mr Kd. Cooper tot *1 defendant,)-John Dinnison v. Arthur Outer, £1 8s sd, groceries, coats Us.—Same v. George' sS Smith, £14, groceries, costs 125,-Jas. Geary v. ■Thoa. BlMott, 17s 3d, balance ol account, floats \ • '£1 2a 6d,. (Mr Thorne for plaintiff.) A. hv M bourn v. W. W. Batt, £2 2a 6d, ooats 4s (Ml Keetleyfor plaintiff, Mr E. Cooper tor defen dant).— R. atovenson v, Norah MoUanßß, £6 lla lid, grooerioa supplied, costs 16?. || ■ I ADJOUBNKD. i Harjas v. Richardson, .-Co 3s 6d; Powdrell v, I Glover, £3 15s; Cochraue and Son v. Qainn, <B1 <: 12a 6d; Masefleld v. Graham, £50; Reeves v» i*B Rally, sen., £3 3s; Oxiey Bros, v. Brad ley. ,612 8s 6d; May t. WCttflfc « I 10s: Hitohens V. Klelber, £s;Oralg T. JB Lewis and Brown, £52 8s; Well v. Payne, £3 la M 6d: Peacock V. KUis. £12 6d; Williams T. Garby, m £22tajWinkBendHaUT.ftyan,£10l8;BooUi I v. Washer, £6165: Latshley v. Shepherd, At 17s. DEFINDED CASKS. Thos. Vaulder r. Wm. Brinsden; claim £U. : Mr George for plaintiff; Mr Cotter for defon dant.—lhomas F&uldor deposedto the nature of Mio claim. He saw Mr -Brinsdon and arranged ~m for the prios. He agreed topay.bat had not 4| done so. The amount waa fair and legitimate. ,a He called upon Mr Brlnsdon, who promised WHH send the money to the Council offlo*. He omitted to do so —To Mr Cotter: ■; Hb • worked nndor contract to the City Council. Uefendant was to do a psa.r.oy^& the work. TUo preliminaries of the work were * performed in June, 1879. Never heard of' tint WM complaint. Thomas Fenton, night accompany. let, deposed to the job being done, but could not remember the exact date. It was a heavy job, H| Spent nearly the whole of the night about it .-■<. Hadi flve years'experience.—Bdwin BtooUey,,.; ,;i: late manager to Mr Faulder, deposed that tha . work waa well done by Fenton,and Ume-waahedi ss —To Mr Cotter: Did not measure it; did not l ( oa ■ Fcnton complete it.-Henry Stockley deposed . I to assisting; the work was properly performed S£j| tho pit was about three feet deep.—To Mr Cotter *>jM He remembered the job distinctly, because it was an awful one. -George Goldie, Sanitary In- 11 spector, knew Mr Brinsdnn's yard, but knew nothibg about toe present case -His Worship: 'm You should have asked Mr Goldie before yoaJM brought him to Court.—William Brinsden, do-; ■ corative painter, deposed that he left an order for Mr Faultier; he called to see the place; mado no pattioular arrangement; heard niKht-oart rumblo up; watched the men from bis bedroom; -m •window. They were only there flve minutes. Tho job was not bait done. He waa not par ticular about the price, but he required that the work should be properly done. U had not beon cleaned for 2J years. To Mr Cotter: He wished Mr Faolder to see the place. Had no objection to pay the £1 or Ms. it necessary. Mr tfauldfTS -~m said he would not inspect the work, but should buo him for the money.—Edward Cox gave a m similar account. The job was wretchedly and nußkilfully done. This being the case, Hi» Worship said the evidence was certainly in favour of defendant Ho did not wish to escape I the £1, nut did not feel justified in paylngtOß, What had not been satisfactorily per(bnn«d>-r:~' judgment for defendant; costs, £1 Os 6d. ■ a' * 11. Gonlstone v. A. Macgrettor. olalm £10.— .j Mr A. B. Whitaker for plaintiff; Mr S. Hwketh -. for defendant. The particulars of this culm ■. ■ were reported in the Stab of the lfith inttaDt—/:. ,} Uis Worship now gave judgment. The ola«n * was for expenses incurred by plaintiff, Who win detained at Tauranga waiting arrival 01., the exDeoted boat; in oonßoquenoo of the delay, cluintiir was obliged totravel overland W Arm-, land.-llis Worship ruled that defendant, under tho circumstances, was not responsible, ana;', Kavojadgmentaooordinßly: ooste.£l ÜBV ; ' liichard May v. John WOBton.—Claim, £6 Ws>.•■■; —This was a claim on a promisoory note.—Plain tiff explained, and obtained judgment; costs, : Greon "v. Somerfleld.-Olalm. £7 18«.—Mr f : B. Russell for pltinOff: Mr Lusk for defemdwfc "■ , —Mr Russell explained the nature of theolann <;.v, according to his instructions, and called en-> denoe.—Lawrence Henry Green, nurseryman and gardener, deposed that defendant W,* I neighbonr, and requested him to make oertsw improvements in his flower garden; hrdldniß , work, and Mr Somerfleld was satisfied, fm men contracted for the work, bat as it pro ceeded, ho had occasion to find fault. Finally, , under his superintendence, the work ■was oom-. . pleted according to the specifications. Donate ,' them a certificate. The work consisted !r »»k ---inn an avenue, layicg out borders, and planwoi! ornamental trees. The work occupied 9 wee** The ooßt of the whole was £Sft a fail and reasonable demand.—Cross-examined W "J', Lusk.—William fctokes, of unehnnga, Mid. another gardener, gave evldenoe that the wow ■ was done properly under Mr Green'd dlreouoiw. mm —Frederick James Somerfleld, defendant, saia that Green did not dictate any of the Wrmi <w the agreement, but in view of his having tn° - iob Green ei#ned the paper; the pegß were al tered by Mr MoKarlane. Defendant denied t&e main points In the evidence of Mr Green.—Aner a good deal of argument on both side* ius Worship gare judgment for plaintiff for £3 12a. costs. £2195. , ,„ Holland and Fortzer v. John Adams: olaun , £3 3s 4d.-.«r Hi. Cooper f.r plaintiff, and Mr , George for defendant.—Judgment for plamtffl., i £5 8j lOd; costs. £117s. This was all tho business.

ME AUCKLAND EVENING STAR THUBSDaY. DECEMBER 88.



Advertisements aro not always literary productions. A gentlemen, probably not t) the manner born, announced that he had tnree upper rooms in his house to let-viz., a cellar, a kitchen, and a back yard;



Sueoml Advertisements. "-j U b T uPEN IS » ex ' zealandia ' and looh cbs*.1 £Jarpets. MAGNIFICENT PATTKRNB Alaao especially for THE MELBOUBNK EXHIBITION, NKWPATTERNS LINOI.KUM Now Shipment IRON VENETIAN BLINDS. Tub Bund or tub Pkiuod, Those Blinds will not warp, and do not require repainting: thoy aro tho only perfoot Blinds mado. NEW PATTERNS DKAWINCIrROOM SUITEa INSPECTION INVITKD. YI7 INKS AND pj AL L, Wholesale and Ketail oabinetmakerß and upholsterers, and carpet warehousemen, shobtland-strbkt. ISIDOK ALEXANDER'S ■"■ SPEOIAIiTIKS, FINS WATCHES! RICH JEWELLERY 11 CHOICE CLOCKS IIJ At Lowest Fbices l 96, QUEJTITsTREET, Auckland. PRELIMINARY NOTICE. •*■ J. CPLLEN <BKOSNTW FBOM BNOLAND) RosDeotfully Informs tho inhabitants of Auok lantfindinrronndinit disttlpts that he hasnow ODeneS the Premises, No. 250, Queen-Btreet East w?§r*^l!arw* and Ohoioe Stoels Ot NEW SUMMER GOOD 3, imported and purchased on tnd' owe oira terim comprising^General Drapery, Prints, Lace and Muslin Curtains, DamaoE and Cretonnes, Blankets. Flannels, Tickings, &0., Millinery, Ribbons, Laces, Hosiery, Umbrellas and Sun Shades, Shawls. Mantles, Fichus, Costumes. Silks, French and English Dress Good?, embracing all the novelties in fabrlo and colour for the present season. Ladies' and Gentlemen's Underclothing la variety, and a choice collection ot Fanoy Goods suitable for Christmas presents. Special attention is Invited to the following exceptionally Cheap Lotß, bought at a large per oentage off cost price for prompt cash, viz. :— 300 dozen Scotch Cambric HaQdkerohiefs,from Is 6d per dozen 100 pairs Muslin Harness Window Curtains, from -ts lid per pair 200 Ladies' Costumes, from is 6d each 500 Ladies' Straw Hats, from 5Jd each 300 Ladles' and Girls' Fanoy Sunshades, from Bid eaoh 100 Ladles' Black Satin Sunshades, with Lace Borders, from 6s 3d eaoh tOOyarda Superior Black Dress and Mantle Silk, from 4s per yard. J.CVhas had business relations with the Best Wholesale Houses in England, Ireland, and Scotland for tho past 25 years; and as he pur poses to conduct his business on the most 'economical principles on cash terms and Bmall profits he confidently assures those who may favour him with an inspection of his stock that it wlll|bo found roplete in the various Depart ments with New, Fashionable, and Cheap goods, and that he will place nothing before the public in print which shall not be aarriod out in entirety and practice, N.B.—J. C. has secured tho sorvloes of a Firßt class Milliner, who baa had a long praotioal Home experience, and has been engaged In one of the first Millinery establishments In Auok and sinco her arrival in this Colony. TUST RECEIVED, Per Steamer, AND NOW BEING SHOWN, LATEST STYLES IN j^illinkry, jj£antle3. JTichus, JjADIKS1 £JoSTUMEB. CHILDREN'S COSTUMES, In Groat Variety of Btylos and Materials. Children's and ladies' HOSIERY. MILKB AND ChOYCE, QUKEN AND WELLESLEY-STBXETS, AUCKLAND. OPECIAIiQALE TJIIRBT-CLABS OUMMER QOODB. TO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN. tST A GREAT SALE "EJ OF DRAPERY AND CLOTHING Will be hold on the premises of J. COSGRAVE & CO., QUBEN-STREKT. AUCKLAND, It wIU be perhaps surprising to many that we adopt the present course at this season of the year, but we do it on principle alone. First: To counteract the influence brought to bear on the publio in these extraordinary times, fceoond: > To give the Inhabitants the benefit of Borne very extensive Shipments, as well as large purohaees mado at auction. And third: To let the people of Auckland see whore they can get the best value for their money. The Duty on all Manchester Goods being re dueod by ICi'per cent, and being largo jpurohaserß lately, this reduotion will be a great boon to j Housekeepers and the publio in general. No Goods will be Entered during the Sale. CASH MUST BK PAID FOX ALL PUK CHASKS. JriosauAVii & no,, • \j \*> QCEEN-STKEKT, AUCKLAND, I imROM T> A B 1 S. The Most , . magnificent Qkictonne§ Kvbu Shown in Auckland, Ex Orient Steamer' Garonne,' Just Opjcned, And on Sale by GARLICK & CRANWELL, TtfICKEL pLATED FRENCH AND HALF-TESTER IRON "DEDSTEADS, Veby Handsome, and a Novblty, Jiut Landed ex Hermione. LARGEST STOCK OF BEDSTEADS [IN AUCKLAND AT THK r<ITY TTALL A RCADE, /GARLICK & riRANWELL, HOUSE FURNISHERS. FANCY GARDEN TABLES. CANE LOUNGES FOX VERANDAHS. Black and White Wool Hkarthkugs. TAPESTRY. BRUSSEL,&SrAIR CARPET. CHURCH PEW SEATING, Vkby Niojb, and Prefkrabm to Odbhions. GaRLIOK & CKAN WELL. \TISW 'BUS FOR MOUNT ALBERT lH AND WHAU. ffrom Auokland— From Whau -11.30 a in Bam 4,30 pm 2.30 pm On Saturdays as follows :— 1.30 pro Bam 10.30 pm 6 pm W. potter. Proprietor i



Special Advertisements. ri X E A T Jji I R X AT T INABURY « riO.'S. THE ENTIRE STOCK MORE OR LESS DAMAGED, ©ALE JJOW Q NI WE MUST CLEAB OUT THE ENTIRE STOCK AT r ANY PKICK, To mako room for oxtonslverepairs to BuUdlngs. SHOP EARLY TO AVOID THK CRUSH. r> A N X HOLIDAY. TUESDAY (37th December) NEXT will be observod as a Speolal Bank Holiday at the various Offices in New Zealand of the under mentioned Banks :— THE UNION BANK OF AUSTRALIA (Limited). ; (Signed)*'' JOS. PALMER. •■.'•-." Chief Officer for N.Z. THK BAHK OF NEW SOUTH WALES. (Signed) J. R. HILL, Inspector. THK BANK OF AUSTRALASIA. (Signed) E.VW. MOWATT, Inspector. THE BANK OF NEW ZEALAND. (Signed) D. 8. MURDOCH, General Manager. THE NATIONAL B4.NK OF NEW ZEA LAND (LIMITKD). (signed) W. DYMOOK, Inspootor. THE COLONIAL BANK OF NEW ZEA LAND. (Signed) GEO. COWIE, General Manager. T>ANK HOLIDAY. TUEBDAY NEXT, tho 27th December, bos been appointed a SPECIAL BANK HOLIDAY at all the Branohes of this Bank In the Colony. For the National Bank of New Zealand (Limited), W. DYMOOK, Inspector. 20th December, 1881. INSURANCE COMPANIES ASSO CIATION. Tho Insurance Companies' OfHoea will be olosed on 26th and 27th instant, (oc the Christmas Holidays, H. WOR3P, Secretary.