SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIOH WATKK}^ ra S w n^ orß i D g,o.2s BUNSET^-ThU Kvening, 7.15 BUNKIBfi-To-Morrow Mornlnß. i.S MOOMTB AQK.-Flrßt Quarter, 28th, BJSoa.ni.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY. Baaoj Kate, schooner, Umia Tom BnMoU

BATOBDAT KVKHiaa.

May Queen, barque, Colvlllo, from Tauraisga

SUNDAY. Orett, 8.8.. Campbell, from GMwrne. Hawk, Qovernment schooner, Garraru, irom » cruise

•nBTIBDAY.

DEPARTURES.

TO-DAY. Flngal, S.S., Norrls, for Mcrcnry Bay YKBTKHDAY. Columbia, sohooner. Conwa7. tor KusboU Rotoroa. 8.5., Tozer, forßußaeu eK% ».. Stephenßon. for Tauranga Sohn Knox, bar(Tue, Forster. for Sydnoy HawkTßOhooner, Garrard, for a cruise

IMPORTS.

Per May Qnoen.from London-10 bales carpote. 1 fawMable oovors,l case roan Btinß.-Winkß and Hall. p 6 rMavQnaen-25i hhds Vinegar, dO owes Btaroh, 28 oases cocoa and chocolate, 10U cases tor oil, 28 gas stoves, 20 cases and a bags tapioca. 5 bam Bago, 1,606 mats and 170 packetsi sugar, It bSdlXawn timber. 33 lengtha pipe. 80 bags xlce, 316 bags wheat, 10 casks troacle. From SouthernTporte — 10 boxea tobacco. 6 boxes gaUanasV Aaif-oheatfl toa. 12 hhds beor. 100 boxes oandles, 78 lengths pipe. 62 bundles wool, and a large quantity of sundry merchandise.

iNWABDa COABTWISB.-Daveron, from Whan- Baret^rith 48 tons coal; Nanoy, from Thames with 16.000 feot tim er; Teviot, from Groat Barrier, withsoo feet Bhlps' timbers; Mercury, from Talrua, with 18.400 feet timber ■ Paku, from Mercury Bay. with 25,000 feet umbe: liana, from Mercury Bay. with 'am feet timber: Saucy Kate, from. Russell, with 60 tona coal; Rata, from Mnnaia, with 21,0.0 feet tlmbor: Janet, from Whangarel Heads, with SOU bushels limo. OUTWARDT C'OASTWISIT.-OBOtikl, for RuSSOI j BUen.for Goromandol; Janet, for Wansarci Heads; Four Sisters, for Walroa; Perseverance, lor Sandspit. -

HThe baiqua May Queen, berthed on the Northern Bide of tho innor Wontorn T of the Qaean-rtreet Wharf to-Uay. Upon dlsoharnop hor Auckland cargo, oho will most probaDl: proceed to Oamirn, and there load for Londr j ThatbriKantlne Eliza Mary loft Timaj^ Andfpfod on the 25th lost. , po'lack Tho Union 8.8. Co.'s 8.8. llotavua tmSJaaea Molboarne via Southern ports aMi Spence. yesterday morninj?. Fanonatfold, Messrs Mo Arthur, .Aodrewß. LBivgbCT&ig, White, lohso, Lolrd, Mr and IffitJastpncly, MoKay. Motrlaon (2). Wenny-jffi GJUes. MoUan, Folen, Stovenßon, JoipJUrst, and 19 In ttoor- Borlaie. Wojrdro'->* Bannytine, Coo,)|t t i r od from tho Sooth on ago. Naplori Messrs The BJfcWn, Bween.y, Nolan. McKay, Suodamrway. Kinit, Allen, Thompson, Warpatarl. and Mfia Gpzar. From Gto- MdPTMr MoCoomb. and »ix eteomgo. She m loavo (or Oamaro nnd intormediato fto at 1 p.ui. to-morrow.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS.

Wannlcn, fi.D., Anderßon, from the South Maogregor, b.s., Amodeo, from Wanganul and

way ports Rowena. 8.8., Boott. from Hoklanga Hannah Mofcau, s.s., Dale, from Raglan

DEPARTURES.

Lalla Bookh, s.s,, Robertson, for Waltara Wanaka.B.B., Anderson, for the South iVlacgregor, 8,8,, Amodco. for Woitara

The s.a. Rowena was to leave for Walter* at o'clock this afternoon.

Tho 8,5., Hannah Mokau arrived last night from Raglan with 16 tons building mono, 25 bales lias and tow, 31 lambs, 33 pigs and 1 bale fungus.

KAIPARA SHIPPING.

(Fro;u our own Correspondent.) Aratifu, Deo. 27. The brig Syren, biigantine Fanny, and kotoh Santa Cruz are the only vbbbblb alongside hero loading. Operations are ot courae suspended during the holidays. Te Korr/BU, thla day. The brig Robin Hood Is not yet loaded.

Kaipaiu Hkads, Tuesday. The barque Mary Mildred and echoonor Clyde are tiding at anchor here waiting a shut of wind to get to sea. Jlulknrviixb. thla day. K&lpsra Heads—Sailed: Clyde, schooner, on Monday. Ar.chorild: Mary Mildred,

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Rcsskil, this day. Arrived: Kutamnhana, from Auckland; 8 a.m

TAVMSBA, this Any. Arrived: Qlenelg, from Auckland, 18.20 a.m.

New Plymouth, this day. Arrived: Wanaka. from Onchunga, 8.30 a.m. WAiTAia, this day. Arrived: Lalla Rookb, from Onohunga, noon. Fort Chaimbrb, yesterday. Arrived: Oanymede, from Timarn, bound for Newcastle, put in diamaateil Bad in an almost sinking condition. She got as far south as atowart's Island, when the ballast shifted. The boats were got out, as tho ship appeared to be In a sinking condition. Only after the most strenuous exertiona the crow aucoeedod in get ting the vessel righted, by cutting away the masts, and then tho men were set to work to trim the ballast.

Bluff. Monday. ailed: Ringarooma for Northern Ports. Pas* nergere for Auckland:—Mesdarnes Andnraom Brigham, Eastwood and family (4). Messrs Caotain Anderson, CUnt. Brigham. Kastwood and I Steerage. For Sydney—Mr West.

COMMERCIAL.

Kvhninb Stab Ofllco, Wednesday. There WM nothing doing on 'change to-day. The brokers' association did not meet At Mr Buokland's wool aale to-day, there was a root attendance. Greasy fetched from 73d to Bid, being an average advanco of id. Washed, lUdtolUd. MO bales wore cleared. A consignment of Nelson fmit was sold at Arthur's mivrt to-day. Cherries, 4Jd to 9dl; Apples. SHdtoSd; pears, 554; gooseberries, did. A lot of Auckland pUma realised 9d. Messrs a Tonka and Co. to-day sold a dog cart ex Beatrice Havener from New York. It realised £52.

Mail Notice.

MAILS WIU>"U«>BK AS CNDBH.—

THIB DAY. For Rnasell, Kawakawa, Wanwiroa, una Mongonul, per Wellington, at i p.m, For Thames, per Enterprise at 5 p.m. Thursday. 29th Instant. For Thames, per Rotomahana. at 7 a.m. For Coromandel, per Coroniandel, at 8.30 a.m. i i Jerßotoru&.as follow:- For India, China. Japan.Medltoranean Porte, and Continent of Kuropo, at 10 a.m. For Giaborne, Napier. Southern porw, AUfH trallan Colonios, and United Kingdom, f Suez and Brindisi, for letters, &c, Bp(j, n d BO prepaid and a<ldreflsod, at 11 a.m. Jf ' For money orders, registered \pr t nowsparera, at 10 o.m. jtij>,m. i For lato letters tiini.2oa.mj ( |^ e b n ni, and ; For Waitara, etc, cor Lalla Jjftioa.m. ; For Walwera, To Kans-Sfp.ni. s Warkworth. per Hose \M; and Opotlkl, per J : For Manttawai.'per Up-- j For Tmiran«n, OMffitn, Opotikl, and South, ; Glenolff, at I.IHLf^ ' { i For Tauwnga^ 3:i Januar y, i? B 2. l par Oraty^_ M to n owfl ■_ Jndwioii Islands, United States ot . Per bjjs Canada, Britlan Columbia. Central , 1 JBouth America, and British and Foreign *- J ><SaTlndles, at 1 p.m. C c /For United Kingdom and Continent of I XEnropo, at 1 p.m. , For money orders registered letters, and . nowepapers, at 11.30 n.m. > Late letters bearing an ultra fee Of Bbcpenoe. t In addition to the postage, will bo received ~ by the Mall Agent on board the steamer np to , the time of sailing. ' This mail •will bo due In London on Mon day, 13th February, 1832. „

Now.-On Monday, 2nd proximo, the Post office will only be open to tho public between 9 and 10 a.m. A delivery ot letters, &&, at tbo counter will bo mado on tho previous Hator day night from 7.30 to 8.30. lAU malls for despatch on Monday will be closed at 6 a.m a instead of tho usual advertised times.

Note.—On and after the 2nd January (proz),, money orders payable in tho United Statoa of America will be issued by this department, and may be procured at any money order post oiiloo. Rates of exchange can be ascertained on application, S. B. 8133. Chief Postmaster, Chief Foet-offlco, Anokland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

December 28,188 L

Theatre Royal — Montague ■ Turner English Opera Company: " Rwo of Castile," S p.m. Rattray's Buildings— Grand Bazaar and Fanoy Fair in aid ot the new Cathollo Churoh, 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Thistle Hotel—Entries for Caledonian Barnes, S p.m. to 10 p.m.

Hovonport Hall, North Shore—Bazaar in aid Of fund tor repairing Presbyterian Church. French Literary Asgoolatlon.-Sp:olal Meet ing, V.M.C.A., 7.30 pjn.

Birth.

DYKK.—On Decombor 23th, at her residenoo, Newmarket, the wlto of J. W. Dyer of a son.

Death.

ADAM3.-0n the 27th December, 1881, after a long and painful lllnuas, Robert Adams, Bixth son of H. U. Adams, Shamrock Hotel, aged 19 years. Tho funeral will leave the resldonoo of hia brother, Albert-street, on Friday, the 30th Instant, at 3.30 p.m. Frlonds please accept this invitation. MARTIN.—On December 24, at her parents' reaidvneo, Cobarg-street, Jessie Miller, infant daughter ot Sergeant Henry Martin, aged 11 years. THOMAS.—On December 23th, at the residence of Mr Reach, Newmarket, Mr John Edward Thomas, into of Montgomeryshire, North Wales, aged 29. The funeral will leave Mr Reach's residence at 1.30 cm- to-raorrow. Thursday. Friends respectfully invited.

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 1881.

For tho caoia that lacks aisiiloncct For the wrong that needs rubtinc For tho future in tho disuaco, And the good that wo can do, '

Among onr telegraphic news to-day is am interesting account of the victory of the Auckland • built yacht Taniwha in the Champion Yacht Race at Melbourne. The Secret came in second. Both vessels were built by Mr T, Niccol at the North Shore. The Taniwhu, it will be remembered, was constructed specially for the purpose of competing in the Intercolonial Yacht Race held during the Exhibition season at Mel* bourne, when Mr W. J. Clark's .magnifi cent yacht Janet came in winner, and the Secret took second prize. The Janet was defeated in the present race.

In consequence of the crowded state of the Old Mon's Refuge, it has been found necessary to transfer a number of the in mates to ono ot tho wards of the old Hospital.

A nnmber of the volumes presented by His Worship the Mayor to the Free Library arc on exhibition at Messrs Upton and Co.'s. They are all copies of standard works, and are substantially bound.

The following tenders have been accepted for supplies to the Industrial Homo for the ensuing six months:—Milk, P. U'Dowd, 3d per quart; meat, T. Walker, 2d per lb; bread, Chas. Kingston!, 2gd per 21b loaf; Taupiri coal, Joseph Craig, 21s per ton; firewood, titree, 11s, and puriri, 10s per ton; groceries, Holland and Fortzer, sup;ar, I C, 4d per lb; rice, 24s per 1121bs; barley, 21s per 1121 bfc; washing soda, 9s 6d per 1121bs; straw, Is 6d per 1121bs; treacle, 3d per lb; flour (best), 103 6d per lOOlbs; oatmeal, 12s per lOOlbs; coffee, Is per lb.

The annual Christmas treat provided by the Government, for the inmates of the Old Men's and Old Women's Refuse, and the Hospital, took place on Monday. There were a number of visitors present, We are informed that the proceeds of Herr Schmitt's matinee musicale, will be devoted to giving tho inmates of these institutions a New Year's Day dinner.

The " Athenaeum " of October 25th. calls attention to the fact that its last number was the two thousand six hundred and tenth issued by Mr John Francis, he laving become the publisher of that journal on October 4th, 1831. The fact1 is, it believes, unprecedented in journalism; no other London publisher, at any rate, has been connected with the same paper for a period oE fifty years.

To the Editor: Sir,—Re "Lost, aj diver bracelet." Life is made up of noble deeds. The fulfilment of promises amongst men stands high. Last Friday's STAB conlains an advertisement: " Lost, a silver bracelet (open work), finder returning same to Mr Ripley, Standard Insurance Office, Queen street, shall be rewarded." Early on Satur day morning, a young lady from Kyber Pass Road returned to Mr Ripley the lost bracelet, and was rewarded with " Thank you. Good morning." Some men "do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame," Comment is needless. — Yonrs, etc., AH iENGMSHMAN.

A lad, whose name we were unable to as certain, hud a miraculous escape fiom death at' tUo racecourse atatiou on Monday evening. Tm>> laafc train was just pulling up at the statiottj* the boy, eager, no doubt, to secure a t!iW|t, made a spring from the, platform to ono'ofathe cattlo truoks. Ho missed his hold, however, and I'ell siddways. bdtwdon the platform and l;ho train. Ho tried to' relieve himself aeve/al times, but doming in contact %lth the raovinp; carriages, he had the presefc<»e of mind to 116 atill till the train stoppiid. Thonprh much bruised the boy extricai!?a himself from Met dangerous position and took his Beat; io the track with the greatest j.possibls sanyjroitf,

A third fire has taken place at Whangs poua-a house having been destroyed. It fa uncertain whether it was occupied on the previous nii»ht. It is intended to hold an inquiry. Captain and Mrs Ashby have booked in England their passages tor this colony, and so too has Mr Johnstone, the manager oi the South British Insurance Co. Henry Butterwortb, the little fellow who was iDJured by falling from a cliff while gathering Christmas flowers on Saturday morning, is doing well at the hospital. He will he convalescent in a day or two. A Coromandel man has Challenged any two man in Auckland for a match at Hand ball for £20 aside. The match will be played on Saturday next 3 p.m. In reference to the mes«age announcing the strandine of the ship Waipa at Dunkirk, the New Zealand Shipping Company have received a cable message, dated a day later than Keuter's, and announcing the arrival of the vessel, but no mention is made of any casualty having happened to her. A meeting of the newly-formed Bicycle Club is to take place to-morrow night, a the V.M.C.A. Rooms, for the purpose 9 adopting the rnles. y rf The following tenders have been r<H« at by Mr Skinner, architect, for a f ?£342 ; Kingsland :— Messrs Leigh J>ge, £269. Wilkinson, £275; Reed, £2Jfe havo been Mr P. Doran'e Varlety/^uo Northern doing a fair busmcySays, having had Wairoa during tha*™ and Dargaville. good houses at TyHeleMv.lle was marred The performa* ™*««* oas e 21lt "£*•" by the bow***o Troupe will repeat their and by *«» tho Tnwn flall -there on ncrfp^rening ncxt> pr£V ious to their return K->wn- They arc announced to give a ,(fiormoncc at the Albert Hall on Saturday Evening next—New Year's Eve

A special meeting ot tha French Literary Association will bo held this evening for the purpose of deciding whether or not the place of meeting shall be chanced, an opportunity having presented itself for tin; socuring of more commodious quarters, i'ilos of L'lndependentce Beige, Lc Eappel, L'lllustration, and Lc Ecvuc cles Deux Mondcs havo just come to hnnd, and are at the disposal of members,

Tho Mayor has given notice that be will move at the ordinary meeting ot tha City Council to-morrow evening, " That the last clause of resolution re "Water Supply to Parnell' dated 12th May, 18S0, be rescinded viz., the Council cannot undertake the lay ing of mains outside the city, and further that in future all applications for, and pro posals to lay down mains, outside the City be considered on their merits,1'

The usual Christmas seiricos ware held on Sunday at the various Anglican and Roman Catholic Churches. They were all prettily decoratod with avorcrcena and floral devices. At St. Paul's, the sermon was preached by the Bishop, and the offertories for the day amounted to £17 16s sd. Father Walter Macdonald said the early masses at St. Patrick's Cathedral; and tho mass at 11 o'clock, "Missa Cantata," was celebrated by Father O'Sullivnn. The rev. incumbents preached the sermons at the various other churches. The services at St. Mark's, Bomnera, on Christmas Cay wero remarkably well attended—the church being comfortable filled in the evening. Mr Gooch sang " Nazareth " in the morn met and "Sine, O Heavens" was the anthem in the evening. The offertories . were very large, and the carols before tho benediction formed a pleasant feature in tho services. The same services will be repeated on Sunday next. The decorations were good, and they showed much care and taste,

A serious accident happened at tho race* course on Monday, whereby a lad, the son of Mr Shortt, hairdresser, narrowly escaped death. Mr Shortt having borrowed a horso f rom a friend,placed the lad on the saddle, and proceeded to lead the animal about Sud denly, the horse becoming restive, threw the boy off, bnt with one of his feet still in the stirrup leather. After a short Btruggle the horse flung Mr Shortt down and bolted, dragging the boy Borne fifty yard* The boy's foot then became disongoged, and ho was picked up by his father. Dr Goldsbro' was soon in attendance, and pronounced the boy to be sufieriat; from slight con cussion of tho brain, as well as some severe bruises about the head.

Some interesting studies with reference to the health and growth of children have been made by Dr. lloulton, of the Samari tan Hospital, London. Instead of taking the average of a large number of children measured onco, he adopted the plan of measuring a number of children of normal growth, brought up under average circuit] stances, many times, thus ascertaining their rate of increase. By this means the annual rate of growth was fonnd to vary between .two and three inches for each child per year. Dr. Boulton believes that when a child varies more than a quarter of an Inch annually, or when the increase of height docs not correspond.with the weight within a margin of safety—put at seven pounds - then it is safe to conclude the child's diet is not good, or possibly some disease is lurking in the system, The curious fact appears that lost of weight always precedes the development of con sumption.

The examination of the Newton Grammar School was conducted by written examina tion papers, and extended over upwards of a week, Ihe following ministers set papers and acted aa examiners :—Rev. Messrs Carrick, Latin; Mnnro, Enclid, Algebra, and English grammar; James Bruce, geography; Somuierville, arithmetic. The Key Mr Macoicol set the paper on English History, and the Key Mr Mason valued it. Honour list: Latin (not numerically valued)— Edward Field and Henry White. Euclid (40 possible marks)— Edward Field. Algebra (60 possible marks)— Edward Field, 57 marks; Frederick Battley, 53 ruark», English History—Henry White, 120 marks; Frederick Battloy, 113 marks. Arithmetic (100 possible narks)— Edward Field, 70 marks; Henry White, 66 marks. Geo graphy (130 possible marks)— Frederick Battley, 118 marks; Henry White, 117 marks. Grammar (120 possible marks)— Edwatd Field, 117 marks; Frederick Baitley, 104 marks; Henry White, 104 marks. Drawing—George Braund. Good conduct and progress—A. and E. Kmidson. Progress in geography—T. E. Heath.

A very interesting ceremony, consisting of the presentation ot a Fast Master's Jewel, took place on Thursday at the regu lar monthly meeting of Lodge Rodney, £. C, held at tho Lodge-room, Warkworth Hotel. There was a good attendance of brethren and visitors. After the regular business of tho lodge, tho proceedings in open lodge terminated in the presentation of a Fast Master's Jewel to Brother M. W. Munro, who for the past two years has occupied the chair of W.M. in the Rodney Lodge. The ribbon is of the colour of the E.C., bearing three bars, and the jewel it self locket shaped. The obverse side bears the square and compass on a blue ground, and on the inverse side, beautifully engraved, is the following inscription : — " Presented to Brother M. W. Munro, P. M., by the officers and brethren of Lodge Rodney, 1,711, E.C. Dated Auckland, New Zealand, 1881." Brother S. T. Georgo made the presentation in a few well-chosen words. Brother Mnnro, in responding, said that he was unable to express his thanks for the kind manner in which the presenta tion had been made, and felt that he had only ttied to do his duty to the utmost of his power and ability. He wonld never forget the reception of that jewel. On Monday an accident of an alarming nature ocenrred at Waiwera, of which the following is a sketch:—Excursionists to this pleasant retreat know the difficulty of landing in small boats from steamers. Several boats had reached the beach in safety, Captain Somerville exercising care that boats should not take beyond a given number; but unfortunately in one instance, a burly, fool-hardy fellow, who refused to give his name, leaped on to the boat fully laden, at the moment of starting, regardless of the captain's orders. The result was a thorough immersion of everyone in the boat, excepting the idiotic being who caused the upset. He leaped on to the side of the steamer, and escaped a ducking, which he deserved by his thoughtless folly. Tho boat was immediately brought down by his weight, filled with water, and sank. The cries and screams of the young ladies wore most heart-rending,as they were struggling up to their necks in water. The captain and the lad acting in the capacity of assistant steward,rendered immediate assistance.and several brave fellows rescued the ladies and others more dead than alive,allbcing drenched to the skin; in fact, every one did his best to assist—all, indeed, save the man who had caused the accident. Thomas Cook, the Waiwera boatman, was exceedingly busy in helping the ladies ashore. He took several of them to the hotel, where they were accommodated with exchanges of clothing. It is but justice to Captain Somervillo to state that he was in no way responsible for the catastrophe, and that the passengers did all they conld in fur nishing the half-drown«d persons with dry clothing, jackets, shawls, etc., to make them comfortable. Several of the ladies completely exhausted, and will long rofiin vivid recollections of their Boxing Day'excujsioa to Waiwera,

Tho senior Bible classes of St. James s Sunday school held a moat enjoyable pic nic at Northcote on Monday. A large number of members, teachers, and friends were present, and a pleasant day was passed. In the evening an adjournment was made to Mr Denby's attractive straw berry gardens, whero the time passed rapidly until tho arrival of tho 9.30 steamer, by which they returned to town. On Monday and Tuesday eveningß the Catholic Bazaar was kept open from seven to ten, the takings on those days being respectively £44 and £33. On Saturdjj' £105 was realised. The promoters in^it to keep it open on Saturday next, i.tcoed is expected the gross takings )jjdy been £700. Upwards of £500 has/* taken, ~<itlng the second Further information yjrftii took place on fire at Whangapoua*tes that three men Saturday niorninc4iut on Friday neght. were sleeping Mcd to continual annoy- After being,nian called Black Harry, who ance frornrtd wanted to got in for the was dp* of the men got up and admitted nigWto an adjoining empty hut, and he I b;Sown to sleep firat asking for a candle Vhich was refused. The other man, Mr G. Clarko, returned to his own hut and went to bed, but in a»short time after the men were again aroused by an alarm of fire, and found the hut in which the negro was sleep ing all on fire. The door was open, and they concluded he had escaped, and set to work to knock down the burning building, but when it was down they found the body of the poor fellow burned alnost to a cinder.

A grand evening concert took place at Driving Creek, near Coromandel. on Mon day lost. The large school-room wns crowded to excess by the residents from far and near. Nino 'busses left the town for the sceno of action. One man avers that lie took £9 during the night for fares along. Captain Andrews occupied tho chair, The pupils of Mr Kockclitfe performed a como dietta entitled " The (Juarrcl of the Flowers." Messrs C. Brown, Uockclitl'c, and H. C. Brook contributed soiirs aud rlocb. The ladies who bore the honours wore Mcsdamcs Milne, Barrett, Randall, etc. Miss Boyd pliycd some of the accom paniments with her customary ability. The National Anthem was snng by tho full strength of the company.

Bcttany's gifts wore awarded |to thn following numbers:—int «ift, a r-idu of baoon, No. US; 2nd gift, a ham, No. 231; 3rd gift, a oheeao. No. 8; 4th gift, r. mutton ham, No. Mi; sth gift, a turkey, No. 178: Cth i-cUr, 3lln of ten. No. 298. Holders of tho abovo numbers pleaso call on Saturday noxt, New Year's Kve, and receive the abovo gif ta.-[AnvT.l

TELEGRAMS.

(FROM OUlt OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

THAMES, this day,

A bushman named John Kyan wo* found dead in his bed at his lodgings, Wil loughby-street, Snortland. An inquest will be held this afternoon.

WAIOTOHi.—The Company's returns for the month is 35Cozs 13dwts melted gold from 250 tons of quarts.

(PER PRESS AOKNCY.)

NELSON, Tuesday,

The annual cricket matcb, Wellington v. Nelson, commenced on Monday. It was beautiful weather. Wellington's first innings closed for 62, and Nelson for 105. Wellington's second innings ended for 54. Nelson won the mutch by one run, and nine wickets.

WELLINGTON, this day.

VOLUNTEER CLAIMS.

The Government have under considera tion tho appointment of a Commission to consider the claims of volunteers in the wars in Now Zealand.

CHRISTCRUhCII, Tuesday,

To-day is almost universally observed as a holiday. In Christcburch yesterday, over 12,000 persons travelled on varioua linen of tramway.

Richard Hcstler, aged 70, formerly haodi capper to tho Cautcrbury Jockoy Club, was found dead in the diuing-rooai of llartou's House, at 11 yesterday morning. Deceased took two cups of en flee nt half-past eight, and was not soen again till found dead. Tho cause is not known.

The annual exhibition of the Canterbury Society of Ait opened on Saturday, at the Boys' High School. A large number of painting*, principally water colours, wore exhibited, and shewed an improvement on previous exhibition*

This day. Yesterday the cricket match, Cariabrook (Oonedio) Club v, Ashley County, was con. eluded. The scores were : Ashley, first innings, 193; Carisbrook, first, SO; second, 112.

DUNEDIN, Tuesday.

The Williamions opened in " (Struck Oil" to an immense house, the Princess Theatre being crowded to the doers, aud money refused at all parts. The Zulu War Diorama also had an immense audience.

Over 5,000 persons travelled on the Palmeraton • Clinton sections yesterday, including 250 excursionists to tho Lakes. All sports apd steamer excursions yesterday were well patronised. The weather wss glorious. To-day is observed as a holiday. It is ruining.

SUDDEN DEATHS.

Mb McColl, a shoemaker, Upper Town ship, Coromandel, was found dead in hip bed about midnight of Sunday lost. An inquest was held yesterday. Mr Daniels, an old miner at Coromandel, died on Christmas Day, and wos buried on Mon day,

THE OPENING OF MOKAU.

(BY TELEGRAPH— OWN CORRESPONDENT).

WAITARA, this day. Te Wbteke, oi Mokau, and a large number of followers have arrived here and held a meeting relative to the holding of a Land Court for Mokau. Applications wero sent to the Government soveral months ago, but no attention was paid to tho request. The natives desire to open the trade between Mokau and Auckland. They have con cluded to memorialise the coming Parlia ment respecting their applications.

DEAN'S MINSTRELS ENTER TAINMENT.

Thkbk popular artistes save thoir fourth annual entertainment, or Ethiopian carnival, on Man. day evening in the Choral Hall, in aid of the Sick, Accident, and Library Funds ot the Auck land Fire Brigade. The hall was comfortably filled, and, despite one or two drawbacks, tho entertainment was completely naccossfnl; and was patronised by His Worship the Mayor, members ot the City Coanoli, and officers of the Auckland; Volunteers. The first part of the programme comprised the minstrel scone, and caoloo performances, bnt unfortunately one of the "corner men" was unavoidably absent, and at tbe last moment hia place had to be supplied by one ot the minstrels. Tho collo quies and conundrums between the melodies were striking, and their local allusions particu larly good. Mr Ferriday sang "Take me again to your heart;" Mr Auton, "Queen of the night;" Mr Worrall, "Days of happy childhood;" Mr Smart, "Kiss me and whisper, good night;" Mr Carey, a local couiio sons. " Shual Agrah.' and Mr Horace Dean. " Little Robin, tell Kitty I'm coming I" "The .March to Parlhaka*' (original), and several others, were loudly ap plauded. Mr J. Worrall was encored in ™ The Roll Call." also with Mr Austin In the pretty duct, "The Moon has raised." Mr Dean, In reply to an encore, gave " All that Glitters is not Gold." His great Fire Brigade Soogwas qniMn triumph. Mr Gapes was not sufficiently nappy in his stump speeoh, "Love." It was scarcely witty, and tho speaker had not studied his make-up. The general oharaoter and tone of the Mimtrels' Carnival was com mendable. It was, however, to bo regretted that parsons should fail to perform tholr en gagements at the last moment, which necess arily cauies muoh trouble to the management and, to a certain extent, disappoints an audi ence. At tho close ot tho musloal part ot the programme, the prizes for the best poem and best conundrum were presented. Mr Brame an nounced Mr John Kelly.of tho Evening Star office, as the successful poet, his poem on the " Auckland Fire Brigade" possessing very con siderable merit. Mr Kelly stepped forward, amid great applause, and received "Living stone's Travels " (Ulnstroted), in two volumeß, handsomely bound. Mr Kelly has already won laurels in the field Of poetry among the bleak bills of Scotland, and the present poem will add to his fame. The winner of the conundrum prize was Mr Pulford, of the " Observer." The prize consisted of Nelson's Illustrated edition of the works of Shakespere. Both prizes were of much value, and will bo prized as such by the competitors. Mr Dean, in a neat speech, thanked the patrons on r-ehalt of Supt, Hughes and the Fire Brigade; also, Hunter'i band, and thoaa gentlemen who had assisted in making the entertainment a success; and announced that the entertainment on Monday evening next, with a new programme, would be for the benefit of the funds of No. 3 Company. The remaining hours of the night were devoted to dancing. Mr Dallen was the successful caterer for the evening.

TWO RETURNING OFFICERS MISSING.

Supposed Lost/™**™ 11 ---[BV^ORAPH^i 33 J^LLINGTON, this day. « Stella, which arrived last Tub Stg/ m a cru i 3o to the Southern eve^Juscs and Sounds, reports that Ser iifiat Major Nelly and Mr Allan, Return ng OiCcers at Jackson's Bay, left that place about a fortnight ago for Hokitiko, and have not since bean heard of. A search party has been out fonr days with out finding any trace of them, Later. Tho Government have not recoived any intelligence of miasing Returning Officer tor Jackson Bay beyond a communication from Mr Giles, chief Returning Officer, llokitika, stating that ho had not received tho returns from Jackson Bay, and asking that the declaration of tho poll bo post poned for a few days.

FATAL AFFRAY AT OXFORD, WAIKATO.

A Native Murdered over a Wager.

I'akticulak.s are to hand of a fatal affray which took pace at the Oxford (Waikato) racecourse oa Monday lust. It would appear that two natives, brothers, had a dispute over a paltry live shilling bet, which ended in one of them, Hoani te Tern, boiug Btabbcd to the heart. Two natives have bceu arrested, and an inquest was to be held at the Oxford Hotel to-day- The nativee, misunderstanding the cause, were very much exercised at the retention of tho body ot the murdered man, aud threatened to deinolioh the hotel if it was not given up. The police at onco communicated with Mr Scarancke, the coroner at Hamilton, and thiit gentleman wired to the natives to wait his arrival quietly. This would appear to havo hud the desired effect. Oxford, we miiy mention, is a township about 25 miles from lluiuilton. Our Cambridge corres pondent telegraphed last night as follows : —"A Maori murdered ami (her on tho raccoourse at Oxford yesterday. Cause : a disputed hot. Two natives have been ar roßtod and brought to Cambridge by con stables l'itzpritrirk and Has tic." Our Hamilton correspondent Bends the following additional particulars :■—

"A native named Hoani Tckcre was murdered on tho Oxford racecourse yester day, in a dispute, said to be over a bet of ss. Ho was stabbed in the heart, death boing insUutanoous.

Two natives have been arrested, Peiua Tahipara and Mikeara Topnpa. An in quest will be held to-day at the Oxford Hotel."

Mr Superintendent Thomson is in receipt of the following message concerning thi.'i painful affair : — " A native named Hoani Takcrc was mur dered on the Oxford racecourse yestorday, being stabbed in the heart with a pocket knife, causing instantaneous death. Said to bo a Maori row over a disputed bet of five shillings. "Two natives are arrested charged with the offence named Pieua Takepapa and Whikerea to Papa. " The dead body has been removed to the Oxford Hotel to await coroner's inqncfit. "Re murder at Oxford,Mr [Scarancke, coroner, will bold an inquest at Oxford at 12 noon to-morrow."

THE LATEST.

This afternoon,

An inquest is being held to-day at Oxford. Tho coroner is Mr Searanckc. Mikaro, :i chief ot the Ngatiraukara, aud Peiua to Kere, brother of decoased, have been arrested.

ANOTHER MOVE ON WAI MATE.

Destruction of Crops.

(BY TI'.I.KGUAI'H.—O.VN CORUESPONDENT.)

PUNGAREHU, Tuesday, 10 a.m. The Constabulary are engaged In pulling np the potatoos both here and at the Para para, on both sides of tho road—on the land sold and on that reserved. Tho potatoes are pulled and allowed to lie. The A,C. have permission to take what they require. Tho crops being destroyed are those which have been sedulously guarded by the Maori sentries night and day, and are planted on what wero onco the famous wheat fields, where the fencing prisoners were arrested.

The natives view the destruction of their crops ifi silence. On being questioned they express rogrot that tho potatoes wero not leit to ripen, whan they would be of service to both ruccs. They are not tho property oi alien tribes, but of those living at Pnri haka, r: no express sorrow that no food is now :*ift for the women and children of the owners. Tho ripest are being bagged and carried away by the Constabulary, Having told the feelings of the natives with regard to the destruction of tbeir crops, it is but right to say tbat the Con stabulary obey tho orders of Mr Bryce with as much reluctance as a drillod soldier can exhibit. They do what they are told with the greatest dixgust for the work they have to perform. They all bitterly regret having to destroy unripe crop*, and thinking of the presents of food made to them by tho natives, reproach their own nation with ingratitude and ruthless severity.

1.40 p.m. Tho crops in the cultivations spoken of this morning have all been rooted np, and the work of destruction is being carried to those farther seaward. The reason of the Government i* understood to be to leave no possiblo pretence for the return of alien deported natives.

TE WHITI AND HIS SON.

Tuesday,

The "Taranaki Herald" is authorised to contradict the statement re Tc Whiti order ing, through his son, the natives back to Parihaka. Although To Whiti's son has visited his father several times in gaol it has been in the presence of the gaoler and an interpreter, and no conversation has been allowed between the two except referring to personal and family matters.

PUNGAREHU, this day. PROGRESS OF THE WORK OF DE

BTRUCTION.

The destruction of crops continues—pota toes, taro, corn, and kumaras—all are pulled up; the disgust of the Constabulary at the work in hand increases. In the face of all this the natives of Parihaka presented three bags of potatoes to the men yesterday,

(PER PRESS ASSOCIATION,)

PUNGAKEHU, this day.

Christinas was chiefly celebrated here by all men having a holiday. Many of tbo tents were decorated and at night illumina ted, which presented a very pleasing effect. Tho men behaved themselves well, and not a single case of insubordination or drunken ness has been reported.

Two hundred men went out yesterday and destroyed about 250 acres of Maori crops. About the same number of men have gone out again this morning. It is stated here that the Government have con fiscated 60,000 acres of land as indemnity for the cost of the recent demonstration.

POLICE COURT.-This day.

(Before J. E. Maodonald, Esq., R.M.) Drunkennhss.—Two persona were pun ished for this offence, Larceny. —Thomas Bremner was charged with the larceny of a silver watch, value £7 10a, the property of George Thwaites, at Auckland, on the 16th December.—On the application of Mr Purely, the case was re manded till to-morrow. Attempted KApk. — Salvadon Vas was charged with an attempt to have carnal knowledge of a certain girl named Sarah Lenham, under the age of twelve years, at Auckland, on December 21st. — Remanded till Wednesday next. Thk Recent Customs Seizures, Donald Watson was charged with neg lecting to cancel the stamp on a thirty-gal lon cask of beer found in the York Hotel, before allowing it to leave his brewery.—Mr Laishley appeared for the Collector of Cus toms and Mr Tyler for Messrs Watson aud Murray.—lt was stated that sufficient time had not been allowed defendants to consult their solicitois, and the cases were ad journed till to-morrow. Cases against Simon Coombes, James W. Smith, Patrick Bropky, John B, Ellis, and Walter McLaren Davidson, were adjourned till to-morrow, in order that the case against the brewers might be heard first.

CABLEGRAMS.

IKKUTKK'S TELEGRAMS,] FATAL PANIC IN A CHUKCH. ST. PETERSBURG, December 26. Intelligence is to hand from Warsaw that a panic occurred yesterday in a church in that city owing to an alarm of fire. In the crush and confusion which followed, over thirty persons were killed, and a number seriously injured, THE POPE'S POSITION UNBEAR ABLE. ROME, December 23. Tho Pope, in receiving a deputation of cardinals to-day, stated in the course of his address that bis position in Rome was daily growing unbearable, and he feared that the Church would have to submit to farther severe persecution. GOVERNORSHIP OF NATAL, CAPE TOWN, December 23. It is announced that Sir Evelyn Wood has refused the Lieutenant-Governorship of Natal, and has embarked for England. THE DISCONTENT IN IRELAND. LONDON, December 23. A lady Land Leaguer has been summoned at Cork for seditious conduct. She was committed for trial, and as she refused to give bail has been imprisoned. LONDON, December 22. The proposed International Exhibition at Dublin has been abandoned, inconsequence of the disputes which have arisen between the members of the Executive Committee in regard to the proposal to ask the Queen's patronage. DESTRUCTIVE FIRE AT CRON STADT. LONDON, Decembc The " Standard " to-day publishes a tele pram stating that fully one-fourth of the city of Cronstudt has been destroyed by Ore. The conflagration is further stated to have been the work of Nihilists. MR O'DONOVAN IN TROUBLE. CONSTANTINOPLE, December 26. Mr J. A. Fawcet, British Consul-General in this city, having interceded on behalf ot Mr O'DonovaD, who was found guilty of libelling the Sultan,tho latter has agreed to pan ion the prisoner, and the sentence ot six iiionthn' imprisonment posted upon him lma been remitted.

AUSTRALIAN.

INTERCOLONIAL MATCH.

MELBOURNE, December 27.

The cricket match between the elevens of Victoria and New South Wales was con cluded to-day, and resulted in a victory tor (ho Victorians by two wickets. The New South Walos Eleven, in their second innings, which bad followed on, scored 215. The Victorians mode the required number of ruiiH, 115 (sic), with tho loss of nine wickets, and thus won the match as already stated.

SMALL-POX IN SYDNEY.

SYDNEY, December 26.

A fresh case of small-pox has been reportod 'to the Health Board. The sufferer is one of the persons detained at the sanatorium.

December 27. Another case of small-pox has occurred at Woolloomooloo.

SYDNitY, Docembcr 27. Arrived : The Russian man-of-war Africa, from Auckland, on December 20.

XHE ENGLISH CRICKETERS.

ADELAIDE, December 26.

Tbo cricket match between the South Australian Fifteen and the English Eleven resulted in a draw, The first innings of the visitors closed for 293, as against 244 ot the local team. Bates made 71. Barlow 62, Solby 51. The Fifteen went in and bud put together 28 for the loss of 2 wickets when play stopped.

QUEENSLAND POLITICS.

BRISBANE, December 27.

It Is stated tbat Mr Archibald Archer will in all probability bo appointed to the Colonial Secretaryship, rendered vacant by tho election of Sir Arthur Palmer to the Presidency of the Legislative Conncil, the portfolio being temporarily held by tho Uon. lhomas Mcllwraitb, Premier.

ADDITIONAL CABLEGRAMS.

[Via Melbourne and Bluff.]

LONDON, December 15. M. Roustan, French Minister resident in Tunis, has| prosecuted M. Rochefort, editor of the "Intransigeapt,"an extreme radical journal published in Paris, for libel, for having falsely accused him in the columns of his paper of having prompted the out break of hostilities in North Africa from a corrupt desire to benefit his speculation in Baroso-Ttmiiian bonds. The trial lasted for three days, and was watched with extaordinary interest The trial, however, resulted lv the acquittal of Rochefort. When the decision was announced the spectators in court applauded loudly, A profound sensation has been created not only in the capital but throughout France. M. Rons tan has been condemned to pay the costs of the action.

The British Government are negotiating with the United States, Germany, and France, tho three Powers primarily interes ted in tho South Seas, for the erection of an International Court of Control for the WesternjPacific, Pending the conclusion of such arrangement the Admiralty will take additional precautions for the protection of British subjects, for maintaining a more watchful supervision over the mutual rela tions of the white and native races in the Pacific,in compliance with the undertaking given in tbo House of Commons some months ago by Mr Trevollyan.Secretary to tho Admiralty.

Communications have been exchanged between tho British and French Government with respect to tho annexation by tho latter of Raltoa, one of the Society Islands. Tho French Government express a desire to re tain possession of the island in order that the prestige of the Republic in the South Sons may not suffer. The British Govern ment reply that if they recognise tho treaty under which the island had been ceded to France care must be taken to secure not only that the interests of British trade are protected but tho pledges given to the natives of the group are respected. Earl Kimberley has informed the Govern ment of Natal that the administration ot affairs completed with Transvaal has been entrusted to Sir Hercules Robinson, High Commissioner for Sonth Africa.

Representatives of twenty British cable companies waited upon Earl Granville, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, yes terday, and requested that the Government would take steps to protect ocean cables from careless and wilful interference.

It is rumoured that Mr Gco. Errington, member for County Longford, who is visit ing Rome, has been entrusted with a mis sion by the British Government to the Vatican. Dr Vanghan, Koman Catholic Bishop of Salford, has stated that Mr Errington holds confidential instructions from the Government, although not an accredited Minister. LONDON, December 19. Murders and other crimes of violence are still of frequent occurrence in Ireland, and the penona who refused to obey the orders of the Land League are kept in a state of con stant fear. In Uoscommon, a farmer has been shot for no other reason but that of . paying bis rent. In spite of the vigorous ; efforts of the Government to put them down, terrorism and intimidation are still widely resorted to by the Land League and its agents. In all parts of Ireland placards have been discovered threatening death to all who disobey the mandate of the Land League, or in any way submit to the estab lished Government. The police authorities are endeavouring to discover the agents em ployed In distributing and posting there placards. There is evidence of strong sympathy en tcrtained for Parnell, now confined in Kilmainham gaol. A large number ot ten ant farmers and labourers assembled on his estate at Wicklow.and performed the neces sary operations of ploughing. Over 3,000 assembled and undertook the work, which was done gratis. This action has occasioned some comment. Owing to the recent activity displayed amon" the Nihilists, the Russian police have Deen on the alert, and numerous arrests of suspected persons have been made. At St Petersburg during the last few days, 2000 Nihilists have been arrested who it is beloved were engaged in a plot against the life of the Czar. Mr. Blainc has been selected to deliver a panegyric on the deceased President before the Senate of the United States. It is reported that Mousignor Jacob, Sec retary Ecclesiastical Affairs Extraordinary, being disappointed at the progress of nego tiations, ins taken the matter into his own hands with a view of facilitating the settle ment. The balloon which drifted across the English Channel on Saturday last has been

seen off Aldemey, the most northerly of the I Channel Island?, H.M.s. Basher has been ' despatched in the direction ia which the bal loon seemed to be drifting for the purpose of picking np the occupants of the car should they be able to descend. H.M.b. Dasher has since returned to her station. Her commander reports that the search for the balloon was fruitless. The Marquis of Lome, Governor-General of Canadian .Dominion, last evening ad dressed a meeting convened in the interests of the Women's Emigration Society of England. He proposed that the committee organised in England should be affiliated with committees established in the colonies, and that the tw« should work in unison, one collecting and despatching suitable emigrants to the colonial dependencies of the .Empire, and the other watching over the interests of the immigrants on iheir arrival.

Tho disposition exhibited by Mr Blame, late Secretary of State for United States, to interfere with the affairs of foreign nations is resented by many Americans as an infringement of the national policy of neutrality abroad. The English Press de nounces the proposal of Mr Blame, late United States Secretary of State, to revise the Buller-Clayton Treaty for the purpose of giving the United States the exclusive jurisdiction over the Panama Canal. Chill reasserts her right to annex Peru, A slave dhow has been captured at Zanzibar. Her captain was made prisoner. The robbers who carried off £40,000 worth of jewellery from Brynkinalt, the seat of Lord Hill Tevor Chirk, Denbigh shire, have not been discovered. Two servants, who were arrested on suspicion of being concerned ia the robbery, have been discharged. With regard to the disappearance of Viscount Boyle, Lieutenant of the Prince (Jonsort's Own (Kifle Brigade), from the Garrison, Dublin, it turns out that the Viscount is merely absent without leave.

A Fenian plot to destroy some public building in Dublin has been frustrated by the activity of the police, who have seized a quantity of dynamite, which was con cealed in the city. They also seized a num ber of firearms and some documents which indicate the character of the plot, and im plicate some conspirators. Three persons have already been arrested. The balloon which drifted across the English Channel on Saturday the 10th inst. has again been sighted It has beon carried across the Bay of Biscay, and has been seen at Santander,a port of North Spain. It was then proceeding in an easterly direction. Another plot to murder the Czar Alexan der has been discovered. The plan pro posed was to blow up the Imperial Palace, Gatachina, by means of a mine. Numbers of oflicers of the guard have been arrested on suspicion.

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS.

BOXING-DAY EXCURSIONS.

The r.b, Rose Casey, the property of Mr Wickens, made an excursion to Waiwera and Mahurangi Heads, which, with the exception of an accident recorded in another column, was exceedingly pleasant. About 300 persons, including children, were on board, aud everything was done by Mr Wickens, Captain Somervillo, and Mr Howard, the steward, tbat could possibly be done for the comfort and convenience of passengers. Hunter's band performed a number of popular airs during ths voyage. Many of the passengers had the pleasure of witnessing the Mahurangi Regatta, which was earned on with much spirit. The ladies' race was especially interesting, the competitors displaying a thorough know ledge of the bracing exercise. The excur sionists reached Queen-street Wharf about half-past nine o'clock, tho band playing " Homo, Sweet Home."

EAST TAMAKI.

East Tainaki seemed to bo the favourite resort for excursionists and picnickers on Monday, nearly a thousand people proceed ing thither by the steamers Tainui, Enter prise, Anne Milbank, and City of Cork, which arrived at Buckland's Pier and dis embarked their passengers in the order written. The Enterprise and City of Cork were crowded with the members of the Baptist congregations of Welloaley-street, Mount Eden and Poasonby, and their im mediate friends, the occasion being the annual picnic of the Bible classes of the Wellesley-street Baptist Sunday-school, while the Anne Milbank conveyed v picnic party connected with the Free Methodist Sunday-school. The beautiful lovel pasture hind that skirts the eastern bank of the Tamski afforded every possible facility for outdoor games and athletic exorcises, the shelving shelly beach gave full opportunity for the successful carrying out of aquatic contests, and a clump of bush, easily accessible from the pier, presented an agreeable retreat from the fervent heat ot thn sun. All these advantages were readily availed of, and speedily turned to account. The member* of the Alpha Cricket Club, who mustered in full force under their captain—Mr J. B. Jackson, pitcned their wicket, and entered npen a spirited scratch match. A number of swimming, diving, and canoe races were arranged by MessrsTlieo.Dowar, \V. Baker, J. F. Blomficld, and foot races for children and adults of both sexes were also provided for. The Bob Roy canoe race attracted the most attention and provoked tho greatest amount of merriment. Sis competitors entered but two being inex perienced in the handling of such frail craft very soon after starting found themselves in the water without the means of regaining their seat*, and obliged to put up with tho hearty laughter of the spectator*. Mr C. J. Shaw won the race with Mr W. Baker a good lecond. An "egg and spoon" race created much excitement among he ladies. It had to bo run over four or five time*, bnt eventually Miss Andelia Dewar secured the prize. The rowing and diving matches also "came off" well. A great deal of intercit was likewise attached to tho cricket match - from the fact that a cricket bat was offered as a prize for the highest scorer. It was wen by Mr Cutler, who put together 17 runs by some careful play, The games Hsaally associated with such picnics—French tig, Jolly Miller, etc—were largely indulged in, and there was abundant room for all.. A very plea sant day was spent, and when tho picnickers were embarking for home they had the gratification of knowing that not a single mishap had occurred to mar the general enloyment. Two of the boats reached the Queen-street Wharf before eight o'clock, and the others were in their berths at nine. OTHER EXCURSIONS. The Kawau was well patronised on Mon day, the Glenelg taking between 300 and 400 persons on an excursion thither. Sir George Grey received his visitors most graciously, and threw open both the house and grounds for their amusement. The lona took about 200 persons to Motutapu on Monday, and on Tuesday, notwithstand ing the heavy rain, secured about 100 excursionists to Kawau. The s.s. Roto mahana made special trips to the Thames on both days, and had a large number of pleasure seekers on each trip. Both North cote and Wooiside were very lively on Monday and Tuesday, fully 5000 persons travelling by the Company's steamers. The number included numerous picnic parties and visitors to tho Takapuna races. The Ferry Company's arrangements were very suitable for the occasion, and there was but little of tho crushing and crowding usually noticeable on such occasions, Had it not been for the heavy downpour of rain on Tuesday, several other excursions by water would have been undertaken; bnt as it was, there was not sufficient inducement for more steamer* to start. ARCHHILL. The scholars of the Archhill Wesleyan Sunday-school enjoyed their annual picnic on Monday in Messrs McElwain's and Ibberts' paddocks. Games of all sorts were improvised, and satisfactorily carried out, while a couple of cricket matches, in which Messrs Jenkins, Jones, Alderson, Hodgson, .Hxler, and Wakerley distinguished them selves, were enga.ed in with much zest, and by the spectators watched with evident interest. The Rev. W. Morley was present during the day. After the prizes had been distributed the children cheered the' owners of the paddocks, their Superintendent, Secretary, and their teachers and friends.

SPORTING NEWS.

The Auckland Mating Club.

SUMMER MEETING.

FIRST DAY—MONDAY, DEC. 26.

President, Mr J. M. Clark; Vlce-Freeident, Major Qeoree: Stewards, Messrs 8. Morrln, It. J. Taylor. W. McLoußhlln, H. P. Barber. - Buller, W, J. Marks, and J.Ktrkwood; Judge. Mr K. Graham; Btarter,Mr K. F. Koche; Clerk of the Course, Mr Joseph Tyo: Clerk 01 the Scales, Mr F. W. Marts: Handicapperß, the Committee, (exclusive of horse owners); Secre tary, Mr W. Perclval.

The attendance was large, it being csti-1 mated that there were 5,000 people on tho course. The weather was simply perfect, and the course in excellent going order. Great improvements have been made in tlft arrangement aince last year, the rails having been continued right along past the old Green Lane gate, where so many bolts have taken place. A totalisator box, of quite a respectable appearance, has been built behind the saddling paddock, and a roaring business was done by its proprietors all day. One thing the Club might add to its existing conveniences is a reporters' box. At preaent, by the time the reporters have got through fixing up one race another is about to come off, and every available post of vantage taken up, so that the pressmen, instead of having an extra good view of the races, are compelled to put up with what they can get. The expense woald be slight and the benefit great. Everything worked smoothly during the day, and though there were two acci dents neither of them endangered human life. During the race for the Maiden Plate Smith's two-year-old Auk filly (Lady), in stead of going on round the bend, dashed at the fence turning out of the straight and turned a somersault over it. The boy threw himself clear, but tho mare it is feared i» fatally injured, and was still lying where she fell at the close of the day. Mr Smith deserves and received the hearty sympathy of everyone present, and was consoled subsequently by winning the Free Handicap and Kailway Plate with Tim Whiiller and Maid of Honour. In! the Hurdle Kace,Lark cannoned on Lone Hand aud went a cropper, breaking her back. She waa shot yesterday morning to put her out of her misery. Mr White lost in her a valuable little animal, and one who would always pay her way at country meetings. The result of the Cup, without being a boil over, was a great surprise to most people, as though the horse was con sidered to have a chance, he waß hardly thought able to beat his field in such com pany as be had on this occasion. The running of Hilda was another surprise, as she has hitherto been looked upon as a non stayer. Her owner must have been mad to pull her out in the Free handicap when he must have known she had so rosy a chance in the Cap.

Maidkr Phtk of lOOsovs, witti a sweep of 2sova ouch to go to second horeo. H miles. J. Lcunard's b h Othello, 4yru, Ost (J. Lang) 1 J. Auckland's br m Miss Domett, 4yrs, Bat Olbs (Wattie) 2 Hod. W. Kobinson's br £ by Cassivelau nus-Envy, 3yra, 7st 91bs (Derritt) ... 3 Tenambra, 7st Olbs ; Hippo.Yatterina filly, 7st Olbs; and Lady, Sat lOlbs, also start -d. Othello jumped off with the lead, with the Hippo filly, who seemed very sore, and Lady, who was fractious, whipping in. At the first turn the latter rushed at the fence and went clean over, but slipped up and fell; her back is supposed to be broken. Othello still lead and though Wattie made a deter* mined rush with Miss Domett he could not alter the state of affairs and eventually Othello won by two lengths. Envy filly beaten by if length for second place. Walters's filly was last. Time, 2min. 20JSCC3. Free Handicap of lOOrovs, with a sweep of 28OVB each to go to second horse, lmilo. J. Smith's b h Tim Whiffler, 4yrs, 7st 81bs (Derritt) 1 G. Untcs'a b m Hilda, sjre, 7at 121ba (JNewnmn) - .. ... 2 W. Adam's br h Lara, aged, 7st 51b3 (T. Taylor) 3

Billingegntc (9st 121b), Paramena (7st I21b), Ratcatcher (7st s!b), Director (6st 121b), Florence (Gst 121b), and Miss Domett (6st 121b), also ran. acratchioga: Foul Play, Badswortk. After three breaks away, in which Ratcatcher was conspicuous, and for which his rider (6. Lamp) was fined two sovereigns, they were got way to s fair start. Paramena, with Williams, the Aus tralian jockey, up, jumping away with the lead, maintaining it till the Butting, when Lara raced np and took the lead, while Bil lingsgate improved bis position somewhat, getting np to fourth at the top of the course. Taming into the straight, Lara etill led, with Hilda at bis girths, when Derritt, who had been lying back, brought Tim Whifflcr np on the ontside with a grand rusfc, and catching Lara just at the dip, ran in an easy winner by a length from Hilda, who beat Lara by half a length in the last few strides. Paramena wat fourth and Billingsgate fifth. Director was last, and tried to gallop into the ladies' lawn so aa to avoid parsing the judge's box, but the fence was too strong for him. Mr Smith's wia was cheered to the echo. The time of the race was lmin 48sec Handicap Hubdlb Rack, of 100 sore, with a sweepstake of 2 soys each for acceptors, to go to second horse. Distance, 2} miles, over cine nigbts of hardies. M. Gallagher's b e. Kawenata, 5 yra, 9st 71b (Clifford) 1 J. Kllia's g g Lone Hand, aged, 12st 71b (J. Thorpe) 2 J. Pilbrow a br g Clarence, aged, 12at (Lunn) 3 Also ran: Matau (list 6lb), Harkaway (XOat), Lark (9st). Hard Times (Oat) was scratched. Betting: 2 to 1 against Lone Hand and Matau, 3 to 1 Rawcnatn and Clarence, 6 to 1 Harkaway, 10 to 1 The Lark. A good start was effected, Rawe nata and Harkaway going at once to the front, and leading over the Brut hnrdle, which thoy cleared in a style that promised well for the whole of the jumps. All the others cleared it, Matau, ridden by Jim Muud, getting over last, and not seeming to warm to his work. At the next jump the two still led, and before getting to the cutting had placed ten or twelve lengths between them and their field. Passing the stand the first time round Rawenata led, with Harkaway cloae np, and Lone Hnuil and Mat»u next, Clarence and The Lark forming the rear division. In this order they took the next jump, when Lone Hand, Clarence, and Lark began to close np, but Lark cannoned with the grey at the next hnrdle, and came a cropper, his rider (Grace) rolling clear. The old grey was now sent along, and quickly caught Kawe nata, and the two began racing home. Rising to the last hurdle, Lone Hand swerved, and Rawenata, jumping straight as an arrow, gained a lead of a length and a-half, which the other could not make np, Rawenata winning by three-quarters of a length, Clarence, two lengths away, third. , Harkaway would have been third had he not struck ths last hurdle. Matau was last, being evidently over-weighted, The time was 4min. 39£«ec.

The Auckland Cup Handicap, of SOQsovs., with a swoop of lOsovs. eaoh, added; second hone to receive 20sotb. out Ot stakes, and third horse save his sweep. Dlstanoe 2imlloa. 5. T. Jlorsfall's br h King Quail, by Yattendon, 6yrs, 7at 41b (Gcech) r ... 1 6. Bates's b m Hilda, by Albany—Miss Flat, 4yrs, 6st 31b (Thompson) ... 2 J. Lennard's cb h Kenilworth, 4yrs, 6st 81b (G. i.aing) ... 3 Also started, Band'wick^yrs, Set (Wattie); Maori, aged, 7at 41b (K. McGee); Badb worth, 4yrs, 7st lib (W. Butler); Lara, aged, 7st (T. Taylor); Peerets colt, 3yrs, 7st (Williams); Stanley, aged, 6sfc 121b (J. McGeo); Kewi, 4yrs, 6st 81b (Bycrs); Poet, 4yrs, 6st 111b (including "lb over) (Newman), and Moonstone, 4yTS, 6st3lb (Wood). There was a good deal of hum bug over the start, and Laing on Keiril worth, ami Taylor ou Lara, were each fined two guineas, fur what was more tho starter's fault than, their own, as he kept tbtm unnecessarily. At last, amid loud shouts of "let them go " from the crowd on the stand and at the rails, tho horses were sent away to a poor start, If andwick being left standing, Maori and Hilda took the lead at once, with Lara, Stanley, and Peeress colt in the order given, the latter who appeared stiff, and ran in stock ings, having a good position, rounding the first turn inside of everything. The pice was very alow till en tering, the straight the first time round, when some of the middle division began making things warm for tho two who still held the lead. Lars and Kenilwotth closed up a bit, arm at the back of the course, Williams, who had been " working his passage " all the way, sent the favourite up a bit, but his efforts were useless, and the colt soon fell back again and gave place to King Quail, who, with Lara and Kcnil worth, now went up to.the leaders. Maori ahut up as soon as Quail shoved his loug neck in front, but Hilda stuck gamely at. it, and finished a length behind Quail, Koiiilworth beating Lara in the last stride for third honours. Moonstone was fifth, Maori sixth, tho rest beaten off. Time; 4mins. Ssccs., or 8 seconds faster than last year's cup time. The betting was 3 to 2 against Peeress colt, 4 to 1 Maori, 6 to 1 Quail and Keniiworth, 7 to 1 Hilda, 8 to 1

Badswortb, 10 to 1 Poet, 20 to I !««. Foul PJay, Yatapa, Othello, Vortex, eZ filly, and Kawenata were scratched. Bailway Pi,atb of lCosov9.-Kntranc«. -w. each, to go to the funds. 2 mile. Fw2.vS? olds and upward*. *-yew. J. Smith's b m Maid of Honour hv Kelpie (oyrs), Bst lOlbs ' * j W. Walter's b h Billingsgate (syrs),9rt lib * , Major George's b f Tenambra (3yrsJ, %t 131bs ... "•'"' g Foul Play was scratched. Smike, 8«t lib, also started. The mare took the lead and was never caught, winning by a length Tenambra three lengths away, aud SiMki la«t. Tenambra was ridden by Ivimyw - light-woight rider, who accompanied Williams from Melbourne He arrived in the Mannkau at 12.30, and was in the saddle three hours later,

.This concluded the Say's sport, and tho crowds rapidly dispersed. Mr Percival.the club's secretary, was a* usual almost übiquitous, and brought the various events off to time, or as near to it as possible, the last race advertised for fi o'clock being over by a quarter-past 5.

Takapuna Jockey Club.

SUMMER MEETING.

Tub first meeting of this newly formed country club came off yesterday under tha most utterly unfavourable circumstance! it ' would be possible to imagine, as tt poured rain the whole day, and the course, bejap mostly newly made ground, was converted into a pel feet quagmire. The committed and hon. sec-Mr H. J. Ellis-worked hard and pluckily in the face of adverse circumstances to make the meet a succeta and so far as providing good racing went they were successful, as, with the excel*. tion of the Cop, the events were all cloielr contested. There is not the slightest doubt about it that with fine weather this meeting will be the most successful in point of attendance, and the qnality of the animals engaged of any out of Auckland, the eaue with which owners can get their horses 'A over, the nearness of the city, and the fact that the Ulab have the making of as nice a course', as could be desired, beinc a perfect level, and lying at toe foot of a hill which forms a natural grand stand, all point to this result The attendance on a day like yesterday proved what it would have been in fair weather, as In spite of the I wet, crowds went over by every boat between 11 and 1 o'clock. The band of Ho 3 Company, under Bandmaster McComisbj played selections from Maritana, La Som' nambula, and other operas very well durion the day. ' Maiden Plate, of 20 soys., with a sweep of I - aov. eaoh: amount accruing from sweep to ea - to second horse.. 1J miles, J. McLeod's blk g Native, syrs, Oat 41b (Adlam) j K. K. Duder's m h King, 3yrs, 7st 121b" (McLeod) 2 E. McKay's b h Da; Dawn, aged, 9et 4lb<Willet) ,„ ' ... 3 , Mignonette and Lottery also ran. Native was the favourite, and after changing places several times with the second and third - noises eventually came away and won easily. Time, 3mins. 7Jfoc«, . Handicap Hurdle Back, of 25bqvs. 21 miles. Over 9 flights. It. B. Shakespear's eh g Harkaway, aged, list (Goodman) ... 1 J. Backland's br g Hard Times, aged, lOst 7lb (Goldsmith) ... 2 E. Day's chm Takapuna Maid, syrs, * lOst 41b (Hughes) .„ 3 Also started—Clarence (12st 41b), Wizard (lOst), and Native (lOet). All cleared the first jump, but at the second Native sheered across Clarence, who ran inside the course, and by the time Lunn straightened him up pursuit was hopeless, So he was pulled off; -. A good race ensued between Harkaway and . Hard Times, till the latter tired[awaylto ■ canter, leaving the chestnut to win as he liked, the third horse being distanced,. Dbvonpobt Cop (Handicap), of TSsovs., with a sweep of 230V8. eaoh, to go to 2nd hone; third horse to save his stake, 21 miles. O. C. McGee's eh pony Nebula, Syrs, 6st 41b (Absalom) ... • 1 Capt. Walmsley's eh h Moonstone, 4yrs, 7st(Wood) ... 2 "... B. H. Shakespear's eh h Harkaway, aged, 7st (McLeod) 3/; ; Band wick, Lara, Kenil worth, Matau, Tim' I Whiiller, Hippo-Yatterina filly, and Nigger were scratched. On his Cup form tbift looked a moral for Moonstone, but Nebula was sent along from start to finish and had placed fully fifty yards between him and Moonstone in the first round; eventually _\ p winning by about that distance, while I Harkaway was about 10 lengths away from the second horse.' Tha betting was 6to 4 on Moonstone, 2 to 1 agaiast Nebula. Takapuna Pkoducc Race for hones bred In • the Riding. Weight for age. SOaovs, with a sweep of isovsleach to'RO to second horse. 1J miles. R. .It. Duder's Nigger 1 Ladybird ... 2 Bullfiuch ... ... 3 .

Handicap Bteepckchash, ot 75 sovb, with a Sweepstake of 3 soys eaoh, to so to second hone, and third horse to save his stake. Dis tance, 3J miles, ovotf fair htintlns; country.

E. Lazon's Yoang Sledmcie, 6 years, !Oat 71b (owner)... ... 1 J. Bnckland's Hard Times, aged, 1 Oat 71b

(Taylor) .... .. ... ... ... 2 R. H. Slmkcßpoar'a Harkawny, aped, * lOst 101b (Williams) ... 3 Newmarket also started. Clarence, Matau, Sportsman, and Rawenata were scratched, The race was one of the best over seen in Auckland, there being scarcely any refusals, and the jnmpd being taken in excellent style. Newmarket. was a strong faronritc, though Young Sledmere had a good many friends, The latter took tha lead after going once round, and held it to the finish, winning, with a heap in hand, by ten lengths from Bard 'limes, while the grey trotted in last, A Selling Hack Race, of SOsovu,, 11 miles, won by Day Dawn, who was sold for £16 10s, being bonght in by bis owner, and' a Consolation Handicap, won by Dudcr's King train a field of four hones, concluded the programme, and the assem blage dispersed, everyone, in spite of the mud and rain, expressing eatUfactioß at the sport provided.,

COROMANDEL RACES.

The races passed off pleasav Jy, reflecting credit on all concerned.

MaidbK PtATß.—Joe'B Maori Win (9st lib), 1; Mills's Stocking (9st 41b), 2; Tommy, 3.

COKOMANDKL HAHDICAP.-Mills's Divfir (lOst 2lb), 1; Corcoran's Hardy (Bst 101b), 2; Glover's Matlook(oat 21b), 3; McDonald's Flora (Sst 101b), 0.

Pony Rage.—Sheehan's Little Dick, 1; Daldy's Dick, 2; McDonald'? Flora, 3; Mills's Stocking and Kawiri's Kongoa alto ran.

Hukdi-e Race.—Joe's Kairuna (9st 51b), 1; Corcoran's Hardy (lOst 31b), 2; McDonald's Akcako (lOet 6lb), 3.

Hack Hurdlb Race. >— Haripaki's Maorina, 1; Ljnch'a Saucepan, 2; Hovell's Doctor, 3; Nicholson's Nanny Nanny, 0.

Miners' Pursb.—Mills's Diver, 1 ;'Cor« coran's Hardy, 2; Glover's Matlock, 3.

Consolation was won by Matlock,

Mahurangi Heads Regatta.

The Mahurangi Heeds Regatta took • place on Monday, the schooner Mariner being used as flagship. Captain Kaspcr officiated as starter, and performed his ; duties in a vary satisfactory manner. The various events,which had finished up to the . ■ time of the Rose Casey's departure for Auckland, resulted as follows:—Four com petitors started in the. Scullers' Knee, the event being won rather easily by Morrison . in the Annie. The race for "four-oared kcel-boats,2O feet overall" resulted in a win for the Gipsy (Sullivan) as against the Comet and Kobo Anne. A protost,however, has been entered, on the ground that the former was over the described length. The Double-handed Keel-boat Bace was con tested by the Comot (Snell) and Kote Anne, and won by the former. The v race for Sculling Boats, 20ft. Overall, secured four starters, and was won by the Blanche (Dunning), after a very close con* 1 test. There were three entries for the Flat-bottomed Sailing Boat JRace, tks Swan proving the winner. Four boats started in the contest for Opon Sailing Boats, 15ft. Overall, the event resulting in a win for the Aran, sculled by Hallantyne, with Mew Year second. The Ladies' Falling Kace resulted: Misa Scott and Mm* Darrach, 1; Mrs Lowrie and Miss KasP«i 2 j Mrs Rasper and Mrs Dawson, 3. Toe Boys' Pulling Kace was not finished when the Rose Casey left,but Sullivan was leading about a length and a half ahead, being kept hard at work by two other t»m» petitors.

Dargville Sports.

Iho Athletic Sports at Dargaville on Monday wore largely attended, were capit ally contested, and gave every satisfaction. The local men won the major part of the

tH E .nr K ,.AM) KTEMNG STAB. wkP«^AT. DECEMBER 28.



Special Advertisements. INSURANCE COMPANIES ASSO CIATION, The Insuranca Companies Offices will be CLOSED on the 2nd and 3rd or January, 1882, (or New Tear Holidays. H. WORBP, Secretory. ri ARLICK & CRANWELL still sell all \Jf Drapery and ClQthtagontheCU-OPBBA- TlVa Cash Principle. Prloes much lower than «they did a credit business. CITY HALL ARCADE. DBESS GOODS.—The greatest variety and a beautiful assortment Is to be found at our KBttibllßhmont, with Trimmings of various kinds to match, and sold at Co operative Cmv Prices. GAKLICK & CRANWELL. MADRAS MUSLIN, Isßd and Is lOd per yard; Coloured Lustres from Cd to 2a 3a, our own importing and B: eclal good value; Blank Silks at various prloes, but those at Is 3d and 5s 3d are unusually cheap. GARLIUK & CRANWELL. OURNING GOODS. — Black Cash meres, Crape Clothn, Balmorals, Drees and Bonnet Crapes, Mourning Goods, to suit all ctaHOH ol Customers, at the City , Hall Arcade. GARLICK & CRANWELL. fTMBRELLAS AND SUNSHADES. \J Fashionable Sunshades, plain and fancy, in satin and other kinds of coverings. Just opened, some very pretty Children'! Puwola, We advise an early selection. I OARLICK & CRANWELL. GOODS.-Sheetings, 101. Callow, B«d Quilts. Blankots; large lot ■■'*tl White Lac* and Muslin Curtains. i CITY HALL AKCADE. ■ifr, _ * . ~„ | fRBTONNES.-Upwards of 60 patterns V/ to salont bom. Borne of them the hand somest In Auckland, varying In pries from Bft to 3a tt t JJnlngs and f rimming* fortsame, White lad rancy Dimities. GA.RLIOK & OKANWKLL. ■ ■■ , :*L;| MILLINERY ANO FANGy GOODS. -Urga Stook of Trimme* Hats and Hoiinovjj. Milliner* on tUo pfeSuea to raecuto orders in best style and 7 with despatch. Straw H its, all tho learnae, shapes, a capital lino just opened at 18. GARLICK & CKASWELL. fAlStW^bODC^SliFMaitleVOhe ulllo Dolmans, Capes, Fancy Scarf*, Children's Fancy nressos, Feathers, Flowers, Underclothing, So.; all at low cash prices. GARLICK & CRANWELL, MEWS AND BOYS' CLOTHING.-A' i YHtiktmtteA irtook at Co-operatiwCiW Prices. Men's Trousara and Vosts, Suits, Mon'a and Youths' Imporial Sao Suits, Boys'Twced trad KnlcKorSolta. Homo spooUl lines W Trousers, Waistcoats, fto., wotUi inupectlnsr. qaki.ioe;T*Jqranwell, W* liiU AROAUK, ■ ftiftlilTL



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WOLFK'B AROMATIC HCBIJDAM SOBNAPPS to IndnoT the deatruotlon and prevent the Im propor nso of their wrappers and labels, and thnifnrthor protoot the Pnbio Matoßt fraud and deception, havo enclosedjn tho wrappers. or undor he label on thefluarftotUes, staoe let Ootobe™ 1878. ana contlmle to enclose in evkry w t£ acS are drawn upon the undersigned, and which will be cashed by thorn on presentation. To sec^ These GlfW, the Putfto must be oarefu to ask for. and accept nothing but, the GKNUINB UDOLPHO WOLf/s faHNAPPB, With our name upon the top label. M. MOBS & Co. Wynyard Lane, Sydney __________



Latest .Novbltv. — Iron Hodstoads with Mckel-plated Moun tings, muoh handsomer that tbo brass, and free from the risk of tarnishing. Tbeee superior-class Hedsteadß were first shown in Australia at the Melbourne Exhibition, and Messrs Garllck and Cranwel), who are always to the fore in obtaining tbe latest improvements ot once sent for a supply, whioh have arrived in the Hermione. and are now on view at the City Hall Arcade, both in French and Half-testers They have aleoiuatrecelven a fresh Bhipmont of White and Black Sheepskin Hearth Rugs and Mats. Htair Carpets, Tapestry and Brassetls. Carpets, Folding Iron Chair Beds, various Bizes cheap iron Bedsteads, Fenders, &c A fresh lot of Patent Bpring Blind-rollers, new patterns in Linoleum, and some Beoond-quality Linoleum they can 801 lat same price aa Oilcloth. All kinds ot Household Furniture, Bedding, Carpets, &c, kopt in etocfe. Furnish your house from the City Hall Furnishing Arcade, Queen street, Auckland,—Garllols and Cranwtll Proprietor. -Advt.)