SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER] To . morrow Morning, - SUNBET.-This Evening, 7.18 PUN RISK.—To-Morrow Morning, 4.50 MOON'S AGE.-Full Moon, 15th, 11.13 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY. Nightingale, brigantine. McKenzie, from Oamaru Annie, cutter, from Lyttelton

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVENING. Waitaki, s,s„ Edie, for Whangarei M artho, barquo, for Tauranga

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

Sydney—City of New York, Wednesday ; Ro-

torua, Tuesday London—Wanganui, loading: Dunloo, loading Levuka—Southern Cross. Wednesday Tauranga—Glonelg, Wednesday; Waitaki,Mon day Russell—lonn, Mondoy Melbourne, via South—Rotomahanoi Thnreday Whangarei and Russell-Waitakl, Wednesday New Plymouth and South—Wanaka, Tuesday Whangarei—Argyle, Tuesdays and Fridays Waitaki, Friday Napier—Loch Fleet, barque Now York—Oceola, brigantine, loading

IMPORTS.

Por Lady Jocelyn—so cases starch, 20 cases cornflour, 15 casos vestas.—T. H. Hail and Co.

EXPORTS.

Per Sybil for Tahiti :-14 boxes tobacco, 70 packages preserved meats, 80 tins biscuits, 81 tins flour, 41 bags rice, 27 packages potted flah, lfli cases wines and spirits, 17 cases ale, 18 cases kcrosine, 10 cases sardines, 7 cases sauce. 10 tons potatoes, 0 kegs Baited beef, 1J tons onions, 80C0 feet timber, 30 tons soap, 30 tons coal, 28 bags coffee, 15 packages sundries.

Toe 8.8. lona loft Russell at 8 p.m. to-day, and sho may thereforo bo expected to arrive at a lato hour to-niffht.

The brigantivo Helona cleared at the Cnßtomß to-day for the Manukau, whoro sho will load with timber for Dunedin. Sho will sail either to-ni_ht or on Monday morning.

Tho s.s. Southern Cross left Napier at noon yosterday, and sho may therefore bo expected here on Monday next.

Tho bulk Martha was towed down to Tau rantHS. by tha Glsnelg to assist In raising the Taupo.

The brigantino Ryno has entered out at tho Customs for tho island of Kotumah.

The s.s. Rotomahana, from Sydney, Is expec ted to arrivo on Tuesday, and she should, there fore, reach this port on Wednesday morning.

The S.S. Rotorna should arrive from Mel bourne and the South on Monday next.

Mr G. W. Binney sold the wreck of the Schooner Lady Don wiih her corgo today. Mr Cardno purchased the following lots: Hull, lower deck, galley stove, £3 103: jack, crowbar, and purchase blocks. £4; boat, 2 oara, mast and sail, £2; sails, gear, &c, £16. Mr Mitchelson bought the cargo of totara piles for £20.

The brigantine Nightingale, 220 tons, S. McKenzle, master, sailed from Oamaru on tho evening of the 22nd December with a light S.E. wind, which lasted till midnight; then N.E. winds to Bank's Peninsula; from thence to Portland Island had light soutborly winds and calms. On the evening of the 28th a very heavy gale of N.W. wind and hard squalls camo on ; had to lay ihe ship to for 18 hours; split somo of the Bails; a high confueed sea. Bomo of them breaking aboard the ship, breaking the galley and floating everything about tho decks; drifting the vosaei 100 miles off her course; then moderate westerly and N.W. winds until tho 2nd of January, when another heavy galo from W.N.W. commenced with fearful hard squalls and rain. It blew the main staysail from tbe ropec, and split the lower topsail. Had to lay the ship tco for 21 hours, drifting 70 miles to tho N.K.; on tho 4th inst moderate W. and N.W. winds at 4a.m.; on the 6th inst. made tho East Cape; from thero had light S.B. and Easterly winds until arrival.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Wellington, yesterday,

Sailed t Rotorna, for Sydney via Auckland nnd East Coast, Passengers:—Missss White a"? Cralgb, Meadames Watson and family, Williams, and Usher, Dr. Bnl'er, Messrs Back, Hanson, Burcb, Roach, Masters Roach and ■Burcb, and saven steerage.

COMMERCIAL.

Evening! Star Officb, Saturday.

Mr R. Arthur reports:—Friday's silea were well attended [throughout, and continued to a late hour, and a large amount of stuff changed hands. Potatoes were all sold out, many lines at a low prioe, but all Hobart Town ones, fairly ripe and of good size, brought satisfactory prices. Cheese could Dot be cleared out, although oflered at low figures. Tbo market is over stocked. Poultry were not entered in sach large numbers as they have been for some weeks past. Thero was a good demand, so that prices greatly advanced. Fowls, lßßd to3»2d each; turkeys, 3s 2d to 3* Gd each; docks, la lid to 2s 7d eaoh; geese, 3s 2d; pigs, 8s 6d to 15s eaoh; potatoes, Is to4s; onions, id to ljd ; oats, 23 3d ; maize, 3s to 3s 6d : wheat, 3s Id ; bran, lOd per bashel: Bharps, ss; flour, £8 to £13; oatmeal, i_\&; cheese, 3d to 6d.- butter, 2d to 6d; bacOD, 3jdtoß}d; apples. 2jd; bananas, l}d; BUgar (on account ot whom it may concern), 3d to 3Jd; box tea, 18s to 2Gj ; sugar, 4Jd; |white lead, Hi ; blue, 6d; biscuits, Gd to 6<ld.

Mr Walter Dowden's sale of produce passed off very satisfactorily. The attendance was good, and the bidding in many instances spirited. A considerable quantity of goods was disposed of.

Mr G. Sibbin's tale proved satisfactory. The following prices are quoted for articles disposed of, In considerable lots:—Cheese, 4Jd to&dper lb.;hamß, 6Jd toßdper lb,; maize, Sydney and good Fijian, 3s ; oats, 2s tn 2s 'd : potatoes, £1 per ton; Brandon's cano ~,*.a. 83d per lb,; ten, boxes, 21s to 27s 6d; flm ,2s id per lb : fowl wheat, 3s 3d per bushel. Tho unclaimed articles sold by ordor of tho Union Company fetched fair prices. Me»srs Carbines and Lasher held their usual Friday's sale, which was well attended, and a quantity of produce and fu-niture was disposed of. Produoe i Maize, coast, 3s; Fiji. 2s 6d to 28 9d; oate, 2s Id; oatmeal, ljd; flour. £11; bran, £1 lOi per ton; salt, 5s Gd: sosp, 7s per box; tea, lito per box; candles, 9d; new pota toes, Is 9d to Is 6d per cwt.; onions, Jdperlb.; bacon anl hams, Id to 61; mustard, 93 per doz. lib. tins; haricot beans, 2d ; hematite paint, 2Gs per cwt,; kerosene, 2s 2d.

THAMES CATTLE MARKET.

Messrs Banks and Co.'s report.-At our market on Wednesday wo had a full supply of besf, mostly from the Hikutaia Farm, which, with littio exception, were of prime quality; not withstanding which, prices had a downward tendency, being Is 6d to 2s per lOOlbs. lowor than late rates, The Napier wethers offered wero again all that conld be desired by the trade, but were lower in price Is Cd per head than last week. Lambs, in average condition, 8s to 9s 61. Ycung well bred pigs sold readily at 8s 6d to lis each, according to sgi and quality. Best bsof, 2is to 25s por lOOlbs. ; sheep, 2d perlb.

WAIKATO CATTLE MARKET.

Mossrs J. W. Hunter and Co. report,—At Ohanpo, tbo yards were filled wiih cattle. There was a large attendance of buyers. Prices ranged 10s nor bead higher than last sale. Weaned oalves, 30s to 633: yearling steers, 70s to 82s 6d; well-bred yearling heifer 3, 70s to 85s ; eighteen months to two-year stews, 80s to 100s; three-year steers, fresh condition, 120s to 1353; three year-old heifers, 85s to 90s; far steers, 125a to 110s; fat sheep, Ds 6d ; fat lambs, 7s Gd to 7s 9d each.

SCINTILLATIONS.

The railway employes hold their annual picnic aud sports at Hunua ou the 22nd of February.

Kittcnberg, tho jockey who was injured at ißangirora, is now conscious, and hopes are entertained of his recovery.

O'Cain, a Lyttelton boarding - house keeper, has been fined £50 for sly grog selling.

The City Surveyor estimates that the ratepayers will favc between £1,500 and £2,000 by tho lower price at which the night Boil contract haa been taken.

Mr White, tho contractor for the city baths ou the reclamation near linrdin_o struet, expects to finish them in a tort night. At Sandwich election inquiry, England, the President made the interesting state ment that out ot 2,100 electors 900 had been bribed.

Mr Kysh, teacher, broke his arm at Wanganui, through the saddle of a horse ho was riding slipping round, thus throwing him oil.

Messrs Shenlh and Lusher, late of the Telegraph Department, have been awarded pousions by the Government for long aud faithful service.

In some rural districts peoplo who live there will (rumple over wild flowers for year?, but if a stranger happens to pluck a bouquet they will ask for home of ir, as if wild flowers wore a revelation to them.

A man named Murphy was sentenced to two years' imprisonment lor perjury yester day. If *11 perpetrators of this crime were similarly treated our gaols would require enlarging.

A Cape Town despatch stales that a diamond weighing 225 carats has been found at the Dv Joits Pan Mine, aud a very line white stone of 115 carats iv Jagersfontein Mine

A lunatic iv Melbourne engaged a public hull aud a variety of musical instruments, and invited the Governor and the lending men to a free entertainment before his malady was discovered.

A crowded uublic meeting nt Christchurch last night urged the Government to assist any Company that will form the West Coast railway. Is this another District Railway job?

It is said of Garfield that he is so poor that he has not had enough money during the campaign tn pay incidental expenses, the National Committee having supplied him with funds for car fares, &c.

At a conference, in Edinburgh, of sup porters of the Liberation Society, resolutions in favour of the immediate disestablishment and di3cndowmeiit of the Scottish Church Establishment were unanimously adopted.

The funeral of the lato Mr Hale *as attended by nearly 200 people, including many Free Masons, and Odd Fellows. Tlio Church of England service at the grave was read by the Roy. C. M Nelson, and Bro. H. Kcesing afterwards read the service of the American Order of Odd Fellows,

The " Herald" sheet Almanac issued to-day is very handsomely illuminated with coloured flags shewing the Auckland signals. It u*es tho trade tables from Brett's Auckland Almanac and Provincial Handbook.

The handsomo premises lor Messrs Fowler, plumbers, at the cornerof Victoria street, above tbo Theatre Royal cntraucc, will cost £1059. Mr George> Rhodes 13 contractor for tho brickwork, and Mr J. Heron for the woodwork.

Westport publicans found such a demand for liquids after midnight on New Year's Eve, In which to toast the Now Year, that they kept opeu, and now they are all being lined for breakiug the law—a very bad beginning of ISSI.

The new Pharmacy Board is gazetted as follows :—Charles Decimus Barraud (chair man), John Valentine Ross, Thomas Wil kinson, Graves Aickin, William Sfiio, Uenry Brittain, and Johu Alcxauder Allan.

A good attendance graced the concert in aid of the funds of Hamilton Catholic Church. Mrs Mofflin and Mrs Dawson, and Messrs IT. Edgcumbe, G. Brown, G. Tonks, and Johns, with Mr Calon and the Hamilton band, were the leading coutribu tors to the night's programme. About noon to-day Sergeant Jackson was observed in tho pleasant occupation of "running in" to pound a drove of six homadiccows which he had captured in the Grafton Road district. The gallant officer was faint and weary with his laborious exertions, while the animals were decidedly frisky and mischievous.

Iho Weather,—Young Lady: "Very changeable weather, Mrs Wiggins, isn't it ?" Mrs Wiggins: '"Eos, miss, it be. Fust [ot, yer see, then cold, then 'ot agin : but it's a blessin,' 'cos if the weather wasn't a little wariable thero wouldu't be no waricty in somo folk's conversations."

At the conference of the Church of Eng land Temperance Society, the Bishop of Liverpool annouueed that Mr Barker's prescription for drunkenness was tincture of gentian aud tincture of capsicum, in equal parts. The quantity for a dose was twenty drops in water frequently. Mr Coruclius Hartley Christmas, of Great Yarmouth, has vested in trustees the sum of £16,000, tho interest \i hereof is to be devoted in perpetuity to the purchosc cf coals and bread for annual distribution, with a small gift of money, among the poor of Yarmouth.

It is explained that the vcason Mr Steven son polled so few at tho Onehunga Borough election was that he had notified withdrawal from the contest prior to the polling, but tho Registration Officer could not strike out his name. Tho votiog for Mr Codlin attests that gentleman's merited popu larity.

A Many-lou(e)ous Precentor.— Young Deacon : "Now, ulder, as our precentor is getting so frail, I think wc had better have a choir. You cannot imagine the grand and solemn effect of hearing the four parts sung together." Auld Elder: "Deacon! yell never piofnne the kirk wi' a band 1 An' gin wo jo to tho tune o' £30 a year, surely we can have a man fia tho Sooth wha can'sing a' the four pairts himsel 1"

"Doflno a gentleman, you say Well, ye?, I think I can! Ho's as gontlo as a woman and as manly as a

man. Far from the crash and tho crowd of tho dancing, Far from the qnarrel for supper-room chairs, bolt come tho strains of tho musio entrancing • Isn't it charming out hero on tho stairß 1 ' Bright, dewy cyeß, and a word softly spoken. No matron notices—nobody cares ; Rosebud or ribbon is begged as a token; Oh, it's dollghtful out hprp on the stairs. h. V NAI'HAK lit, W. I

Mail Notice.

Mails will Closb as Under t— Tniß Day. For Thamos, per Rotomahana, at 5,30 p.m. Monday, 10th instant. For Coromandel, por Coromandel, at 11.30 a.m. For Wanganui, per Wnllobi, at 1.15 p.m. For Tairua, per Mana, at 9 a.m. For Taranaki and Southern ports, per Wanaka, at 1.15 p.m. For RubboU, Kawakawa, Wangaroa, and Mongonni, per lona, at 4 p.m. __~,, . For Tauranga and Opotlki, por Waitaki, at * P«ra- , . r For London direct, per Wanganui. at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Hntorpriso, at 5.30 p.m. Tuesday, Ilth instant. For Waiwera, Kawau, Omaha, and Matakanu, per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Russell, Krmakawa, and Australian Colonieß, por Hotorua, at 3 p.m. For Wangarol Hoods, Waipu, Wangarol, and Mangapai, per Argyle, at 4 p.m.

For Australian Colonies, Batavla, Singapore, China, and Japan, via Torres Straits, por s.s. City of Now York, Immediately altor her arrival from Honolulu. Supplementary Mails tor India, Continent of Europe, and Unitod Kingdom, via Brindisi, (for letters, etc,, specially so prepaid aud ad dressed), por s.s. city of Now York, Im mediately aftor her arrival from Honolulu. Wednesday, 12th Instant. For Lovuka. Tonga, and Samoa, per Southern Cross, at 1 p.m.

Note.-Tho Postoflicos ot Ararimu, Perl waka, and Uppor Parnell havo boen closod. Receiving boxes havo boen established at Mr Leslie's Shop, in Upper ParneU, clotrcd daily at 6.30 a.m. and 12 noon: and at Mr Talbot's shop, in Parnell, cleared dally at 0.35 a.m. and 12,5 Post-oillcos havo boen opened at Bucklandß Mails will bo olOEcd at chief olllco dally at 7 p.m., and will arrivo dailyotO.lO p.m.; atParua mails closing overy Friday at 1 p.m.. and arriv ing every Tuesday at 9a m.; at To Miv», mails closing ovory Thursday at 7 P.m., and arriving every Saturday at 0.10 p.m.; and at Victoria Volley, near Mongonui, mails closing ovory Monday at 1 p.m., and arriving every Saturday at 9 a.m. S. B. nia9. Chief. Poatmaater. Chlof Post-ofllco, Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

January Bth, 1881,

Thaatro Royal—Gilbort and Sullivan's coniio opera, " H.M.S. Pinaforo," 8 p.m. Young Women's lostituto—Chrlßtmns Troo and Salo of Work, .'t to 10 p.m.

Birth.

WISHART.—On January 4th, at her residence, Liverpool-strcot, the wifo of Mr Aloxaudcr Wishart, of a son.

Marriages.

BKNGK-GOOD.-On Decombor 30, at All faints' Church, by tho Roy. K. N. Hroo, Alfred, Bon of Mr James Hongo, Maidstone, Kent, to Sarah, youngest daughter of Mr Thomas Good, of Homo Bay, Ponsonby.

Death.

DOWN.—On January 7, 1881, at her parents' residence, top of Hotson-stroot, youngest dnughtor of John Down; ngod 10 years. The funeral will leavo hor lato rcHldenco to-morrow (Sunday), at — o'olook. Friends will accept this Invitation. HOPKINS.—At hor residence Konncdv-Btrcot, on Jannarj G, Annlo Hopkinß, aged 20; after a long and painful illnces,—Wales papors please copy. QUKKNIN.—On January 8, at York-Mroot, Newton, Floronco Amy. the only child of Miclmol aud Margarot Queonln; uged four months. WHIT3ON.-0n January 8, at Princos-stroot, Auokland, Mr Thomas Whitson. The funeral will leavo his late rcsldenoo on Monday, 10th instant, at 3 o'clock.

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

SATURDAY, JANUARY 8, 1881.

For tlit cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong tbat needs resistance, For the future in the distance, And the kcoil that we can do.

Public bodies, liko privato individuals, are too often led to continue in a wrong course which they have entered upon under a mistaken idea that thoir dignity would be sacrificed by auy acknowledge ment of error. We are inclined to accept this explanation of the action of the Board of Education yesterday in its treatment of tho City Committeo's memorial, rather than believe that the Board's refusal to display even tho semblance of a conciliatory spirit is a studious and authoritativo assertion of the intention of the Board to snuff the Committees out, or place them in ignominious and helpless subordination. Nevertheless, what ever the motive, we do not hesitato to say that the moral will not bo lost upon the Committees throughout the Provincial District • and tlio action of country representatives especially, in this matter, will occasion surprise and dismay. For thero is no blinking the fact that a very great principle is at stake—ono imperilling the independent existence of tho committees throughout the educational district. If tho Board of Education can seizo a largo school against tlie protests of the local committee and the united remonstrance of the press, what may not happen to a country district, where there is little or no means of bringing the pressure of public opinion to bear on the Board. We agree with Mr Moss, most thoroughly, that the course pursued by the Board is contrary to the Education Act, and a direct attempt to sap tho authority of the Board's constituency. In giving their voice to such a proceeding the ro presentatives of Committees have struck a blow which will tell with the greatest force on the country Commit tees, and those bodies should be on the alert lest the few remaining sparks of life which remain to them a.re stifled by one or other of the restless feelers of the central octopus.

I The answer of the Board to the Committee—which Mr Peacock, while confessing that its contents were "news" to him, described as leaving the Commit tee " not a leg to stand upon"—deserves to be fairly considered. We must confess, however, that, after most pains taking study of every sentence, we have failed to discover even a shadow of that convincing proof of the legality or prudence of the Board's action, which seems to have come home by a revela tion to the minds of seven members of the Board. The statement fails signally in shewing the legal right of the Board to set at defiance the 74th section of the Education Act, which declares that " The Committee shall have the man agement of educational matters within the school district." It does not allege any consultation with the School Com mittee, nor any consent on their part, but says to the Committee, in so many words: "Oh, we told you two years ago we were going to do this thing, and you didn't say we shouldn't, and now we have done it." How would Timothy Flanagan fare with the same plea as an excuse for murdering his wife ? " Oh, j I told her I'd be the death of her; all tho neighbours knew it, and now I've done it." In Mr Peacock's opinion, the defunct Mrs Flanagan might not, figura tively speaking, have " a leg left to stand upon"; but it is certain that Timothy, physically, would soon be in the same position. Admitting the strict accuracy of all that isalleged in the Board's statement, the City Committee would have had no cause to protest until the Board attempted to carry its illegal threats into execution. But the Com mittee dispute the construction which is now attempted to be placed on the Board's past communications ; al though it is admitted that the intentions of the Board are usually conveyed in such a way to Committees that a Philadelphian lawyer could not discover their meaning. It is, of course, well understood that the building adjoining the City West School, and which has since been attached to it by a covered hall, was intended aa a Training School. It was built for one; tho Committee understood it, and had no disposition to offer any objection to it; but they had no idea that the proposed ap propriation extended further. It is also

quite cvidont from Mr Peacock's twice repeated declaration yesterday that he was under the impression that only part of tho Wellesley-street buildings were intended for the Training School, that he at least, of tho Board, enter tained the same ideas on the subject as the Committee. As a matter of fact, tho first suspicion excited in the mind of tho Committee that the Board con-, tomplatod depriving parents of control over a thousand children attending city schools sprang out of an incidental al lusion in a letter about school clean ing, in which tho Committeo were informed that thoy would bo re lieved of tho oxpenso of cleaning City East school aftor the beginning of the year. It was only when the Com mitteo wrote inquiring the reason why, that tho Board deigned to inform them that tho largest school in the city was to bo taken away from their control. It is a sad ovorsight that the hint about school sweeping was not embodied iv tho Board's " evidence" that tho Committee—wiser than tho Board itsolf—knew all along what was to bo dono. Thero is another littio matter Which has been overlooked by those members who think the Board's roply unanswerable. A school houso does not constitute a school, and any notico of the ultimate application of City East school building to tho purposes ofja Training College would not necessnrily bo a notice of the Board's intention to dispose in tho same summary way of tho teachers, pupils, and school organisation under tho control of tho city committeo as representative of the parents, which had been carrying on operations in St. Paul's and Choral Hall schools bofoio tho Wellesley-street buildings were erected. The common-sense con struction to be placed by any committeo upon tho notice which tho Board rely on, would simply bo that certain of tho school buildings in Wellesley-street might bo required for a Training College. It never could havo been supposod by any Committeo, with tho Education Act before them, that tlie Board intended to wrest from tho householders, with out their cousoat, their legal voieo iv the management of a school which had, in other buildings, beeu in existence ever since tho Aot came into operation. Wo uso tho word " wrest" advisedly, for wo believe there is ns nuuh mischief in tho mode of doing it as in the net itself. If tho Board had been in tho habit of treating tho committees more courteously instead of systematically ignoring thoir legal authority and position, they would havo consulted with them on the subject of tho practic ing school, and the present lamentable rupture would never have arisen.

Tho prudence of making dis tinctions iii the character of the public schools wo do not proposo to discuss in tlio present article. Mr Dargavillo said that the parents had no cause of complaint at tho loss of con trol becauso it was probable that tlie teaching in tho Normal School would be better than in tho ordinary public schools. Tho argument is an unfor tunate ono. Tho creation of such a difference in tlio status of common schools is a just cause of complaint by every parent throughout tho Provin cial District who is unablo to obtain admittance for his children to tho Normal School. Tho wealthy and tho favoured, iv the absence of local control, may ultimately get unfair advantages over other children. Any distinction whatever among the pupils of tho public schools is highly objectionable. Wo iv no wise deny tho necessity for a Training College untl practicing school, not- do] we proposo now to inquire how ono [might have been established iv conformity with the spirit of the existing law. Wo havo simply to doal with the Board's method of establishing one and the merits of their dispute with the City Committee, and we do not hesitate to say that thoir defence is thoroughly unsatisfactory and one which the Committee cannot accept with dignity to themselves, or justice to tho influential constituency which tbey represent.

A qukstion has been raised whether, under the new Dog Registration Act, a collar may bs purchased in auy district; or, whether it must be supplied by the local body of the district iv which the owner of the dog happens to rciido at tho time of registra tion. There is moro in tho inquiry than appears on the face of it. In some country districts, where party rancour runs high, residents have sent to town to buy collars ond register their dogs, and it has been contended by the local authorities that they cannot legally do so. In this thero is little doubt that the local authorities are light. The tax, which is a heavy ono, is intended to be local revenue. Clause 7 ot tho Act is very explicit: it provides :—

Kvery registration of a dog shall be made by the owner thereof, or some person on his behalf, delivering at some appointed registration ollice in the district where tbo owner of such dog either lives or has hia place of business a description of such dog, together with other particulars hereinbefore required to be entered in the register book, and by paying the registration fee.

The owner of a dog ha«, thereforo, but one alternative. He has a choice between the district iv which be lives and the one whero he has a place of business, but in one or other of these di«tiicts he must register. It Is quite true that having once paid, tbe registration will stand good in any district of the colony should he remove during the currency of the collar, but the wording of the Act strictly provides for local registration iv the lirst instance. And there are moat ex cellent reasons for this. Local supervision will ensure more general payment of the tax and better control of the dogs in a district, to say nothing of the revenue, which, in mauy instance?, will be very substantial, and which in fairness ought to go to the funds of tho district in which tbo dogs are kept.

On our fourth page to-day appears an advertisement notifying the times and places of holding the elections ot school committees throughout the Auckland Provincial District.

An old man named Hopkins is at present lying in the Hospital suffering from a num ber ot bruises, which he says were inflicted upon him during tho Christmas season, by his employer, who is a well-known saw mill proprietor. If his story bo correct the circumstances calls for enquiry from the police authorities. A correspondent writes to a contemporary in reference to tho alleged traffic iv English girls in Belgium, which has lately beeu tho subject of considerable comment in tbe newspapers. He says :I am able to afford strong confirmation of the startling state ments that have been made by Mrilycrand his friends, only tho case occurred at Ant werp instead of Brussels. Some time ago the captain of a small vessel made a reso lution to carry back to her native country an English girl whom he knew wns confined in an Antwerp don. For that purpose he called at the house and tried to persuade the mistress to allow him to take the girl out for a walk. A mild force of persuasion was useless, and he only had his way by insisting upou the girl being permitted to accompany him. Of course she never returned, But the baffled keeper of the house was determined to have her revenge. When the captain again visited Antwerp she bad him arrested for theit, and ho had to appear to (he charge. The prosecution was based upon the ground that the clothes in which the girl was dressed did not belong to her, that her deliverer had, in short, stolen them. However, in the end, the interfer ence of the English Consul was invoked, and the charge being withdrawn tho whole story was conveniently hushed up. It is, I learn, a positive fact that the fear of being arrested for theft deters girls who are allowed the slightest liberty from attempt ing to escape from the dons in which they arc ofteu detained against their will. '

I easy terms to suit purchasers^ & 1, Shortlftndjtr

The time for receiving entries for the champion rowing races at the Auckland Regatta has been extended till January 17th, the general entry night.

The Auckland Kegatta Committee have placed on their programme n race for scows or barges. This addition should give general satisfaction, inasmuch as there are a considerable number of this class of vessels bclou_ing to the port.

A woman Inst night entered the shop of Mr Burrows, Ponsonby, to make a purchase, and while waiting for change picked up and tried to conceal a package that was lying on the counter. Being detected in this, when going out alio endeavoured to stow a pine apple under her shawl, She was the worse for liquor, and Mr Burrows kindly let her go, but the danger of disgrace and imprison ment which she hns escaped should act as a warning to her.

A young mail named Walter Weckes was received into the Hospital yesterday suffer ing from the fracture of the collarbone, con sequent upon the upsetting of a truck at the Tuupiri coul mines ou the lGth ult. I he injury was unskilfully treated in the Waikato, and the patient therefore camo on to town. Dr Cooper bus fciiccesttttlly set the iujured member,

The increnso of the dog registration foe from 5s to 10s per annum does not appear ro far to bare lessened appreciably our catoinc population or to have diminished in any degree tho purchase of collars, r ince tho beginning of the year no less thnn 400 animals have been registered in the city alone, producing nu income of £200 while there is daily a crowd ot applicants for re gistered collars. It is but a fair inference, that tho Hiuno thing may be predicted ot tho suburbs,

The well-known Kussian millionaire Wnrschawaki, Ims boon arrostcd, by order of the Hussinn Government, in Odessa, and brought to St. Petersburg. The nirost of Wurschwntki is connected with tho army supply contract iv the last war. It is stated Mint evidence in forthcoming lo show that Warschawski defrauded the authorities to tlio extent of no less than twenty-two million roubles. At tbo same time ns Wnißchawski, the scciotury of the Kussian chief army administrator, iiorcu, and the chief administrator dining the late Turkish war, were also iv rested iv Odessa.

" The report to-day (writes our London correspondent) that tho Government of Now Zealand bus decided to take steps at once to fortify tho principal seaports, us a protec tion against naval attack, and that the Uomo Covcrninont has been applied to for an engineer oilicor to superintend the necessary works, will probably excite con siderable comment hero, Retrenchment at all points ii looked upon ns the only salvation for the colony, and yet your Government docs not hesitato to undertake public works that would try the resources of tlie wealthiest communities of the old world, while economising on the salaries,of its olliciuls."

Tho Key. U. If. Codington, M.A., U preparing a work on tho customs nnd languages of Melanesia Mr G dington was for some years attached to the Melanesia!! mission. The series of litters to the Key. Lonimor Eison published with his able comments in the "Transactions of tho Uoyal Society of Victoria" have attracted much attention hero, and tlio book is nuxiously looked for by thoso interested in ethnology.

Among the most interesting papers rend at tho British Social Science Congress, was one by Dr. C. 1!. Doysdalc, on the "Vital Statistics of New Zealand." Ho showed that in New Zealand the idcnl death rate only attained in Kuropo among tho wealthy clauses was found, being ouly 11,47 per 1000, or about one half the dentil rate of Great Britain. As tho birth rate is 42, the population of the colony will be doubled in little moro than 21 years.

Our Thames lelegranis yesterday stated that the owner of tho old buildings which were found on lire on Wednesday night had consented to their being pulled down. The premises referred to are those which tiok lire once before, early iv November last, and known as the Willoughby-strcct Reduction Works, formerly the property of Messrs Raithby, Muir and Co. The doors, win. dows, und fences wero down, and the interior of the building greatly charred from tho effect of the former conflagration, so lli.it ncccHS was at once available. A pccoud attempt to burn them was discovered by a constable on Wednesday night, who found the remains of an old skirt, adjusted to tbo side of a centre partition in the main build ing, tsti 11 smouldering, nnd the timber" in flames. The former firo had mado him acquainted with the resources of tho pre mises in tho matter of wjtor supply, and ho had no difficulty in simultaneously giving au alarm to the lamily next door, and iv procuring a roady supply with which to quench the name?. Near the spot ignited, it was shown that oil bad saturated the timber, and it was most fortunate that the constable was promptly on the spot, to check what might have proved a destructive lire.

To tho Editor: Sir,—Allow mc a small apace in your paper, to ask you to bring under the notice of the chief postmaster tho following, which eccins to me the very re verse of an improvement. Before the alterations to the post oflieo took place, which arc said to be improvements; there wero eight boxes for posting papers aud letters, arranged lor provincial, southern, and foreign place.", now there arc only four to receive all, which eight received before, and anything which takos away, to my mind, is not an improvement. Having occasion to go down last Sunday evening to post some papers and letters, I found it almost impossible to get either into tho boxes, which were literally full. I could easily have drawn out several letters and papers. I crammed them in ns well as I could. This is not as it should be. Of course tho day previous being a holiday had something to do with this. On last Tueaday, mail day, it was nearly impos sible to get at them at all. Besides the limited accommodation to the public, the increase to the sorting clerks, in the face of 10 per cent, reduction, must be great, ull the English, Colonial, aud foreign corres pondence being mixed up together. I think four or five more boxes should be pro vided to the right of the existing four, so ns to give the same accommodation aa be fore. I think this only wants to be brought under the notice of Mi Biss to bo remedied. —I am, Sic, Scribe,

The Augsburg " AJlgotneino Zeifung" has an nrticlc on " The Aims of British Policy,'and the conclusion it comes to is that, under the Gladstone Ministry, Eng liuul is pursuing substantially tho samo objects as under tho Bcnconslicld Cabino*. As to any real difference between tho Con. sc.rvativc and the Liberal Foreign Policy, the "Augaburger can sco none. Whigs and Tories havo the same ends in view—tho enrichment of John Bull by increasing hia colonial possessions, and opening now markets for his cotton wares. "Six of one

and half-a-dozen of the other"—such in the judgment of the Bnvariau critic, is all (.ho

difference.betweon thetwogrcatpoliticalpar tiesinEnglandjO'far as their dealings a broad arc concerned, Though the German critic believes very little in British disinterested ness he, nevertheless, hy no means con demns the " national egoism of John Hull," Though many of the writer's assertions are rather amusingly one-sided, there is no trace of bitterness in him, and the worst that he lias to say of the English is that he wishes tho statesmen of the f'ontinent wero more like those of England :—" Iv the government of the powerful Island Empire, how often have Tories and Whigs, Couser vatives and Liberals, changed places, and how often in consequence, or under pretext of such change, have tbe allies of England found themselves left in the lurch ! One object there was which English statesman have always kept in view amid every vicissitude and change— It was the enrich ment and aggrandisement of their country." To the Editor : Sir,—l read a few days ago a letter in your paper signed " Truth," lin which I was sorry to observe some very uncharitable and narrow-minded reflections on the Auckland Angelican clergy, because they had not taken part in the services con ducted by Mrs Ilampson. Although ac quainted with several of them, I have not heard from them what wero their reasons for co abstaining, but, surely, before con demning their conduct, there is one thing which might havo occurred to "Truth," viz., that it is just possible that many of the clergy may be of the same opinion as St. Paul, no nieiin authority, when be ob jects, 'and even forbids women to preach. .Further, as to "Truth's" assertions, as to the dearth of lifo in the Church of England, I am convinced, and am sure, that he greatly ens. I speak what Iknow. I live in a country district where thcreare, as elsewhere, persons belonging to various denominations. Though differing in minor matters, we are united in Sunday-school and other work, and anyone here would bear mc out in say ing that if there is aDy difference it is the ministers and the laity of the English Church who arc the most alive and the most earnest in spiritual matters. lam far from imputing any evil motive to " Truth" in the remarks ho has made, for I have known many like him, incapable of taking a wide and catholic view of the actions of others, simply from ignorance, and if thoy knew more of those whom they now accuse, they would feel regret at naving at any time allowed themselves to sneak against them.— [ Yours truly, Chaiuty." w 8. J 0 N X 8,1

" Truth " writes declaring on behalf of the Alexander-street and Excelsior Hall Primitive Methodists, " that ' KisS in the Ring' was not played by either teachers or scholars of the schools in tho Domain on New Year's Day. Tho amusements were equally as innocent nnd respectable as tb.030 indulged in by othor schools."

A man named Biudett, who is said to be n lunatic, has been sent from Port Albert to Auckland. This case will be dealt with at the next sitting of the Court. He is now in charge of the Police.

Tho fruit and flower service at the hospital postponed last week will take place to-morrow.

It may not be amiss to remind^ people who arc far from preciso in their ideas oi "meuiu" and "tutttn" that should they chauco to engage in the agreeable little "lark "of relieving a dog of its registered collar for the benefit of someone else's canine retainer they lay themselves open to a legal prosecution, and the possible milic tion of a £10 penalty. The owder of a dog on which a stolen collar is found is liable to a similar fine. Similar cases of this kind have nlready been reported to the police, and active stops arc being taken to discover the offenders.

It is unfortunate that tho Roy. A Penny (who had temporarily postponed his journey to England for the purpose) has been prevontcd from proceeding to Syducy to givo information to tho Commodore respecting tho Chief most likely to be the instigator of tlio Sandfly massacro by the steamer's not calling for hinl nt Norfolk Island. His disappointment, however, may bo lCßsencd by the knowledge that the church peoplo Of Auckland will through it not lose the pleasure of wolcoming him again, as ho has carried out his original intention of coming here ; and has promiHod, wo understand, to preach to morrow evening iv St Matthew » Church.

The "Thames Advertiser" says :—" The question of the advisability of forming a company to work the vast deposits of hematite ore in tho Tararu district is under consideration by various residents of Auck land and the Thames. Mr Georgo Perry, a gentleman who has recently arrived ia the colony, and who, ns an expert, is eminently qualified to judgo of the capabilities of the Thames ore, strongly urges tho scheme on the notico of those who havo the progress of tbo district at heart. Mr Perry, since bis arrival, has been employed by D. 11. McKenzic, Esq., to report on tho qualities of tho coal und iron stone at tho Miranda mine."

Tlio " Daily News," in ou article on the ullairsjat Ajiia, in the New Hebrides, and the appointment of Sir Arthur Gordon, says :—"Tho .story of the tragic adventure of the DauntkMS is a sufficient justification of tho new ordor. So many lawless Euro peans roam among the islands of Polynesia that when any of them fall by the hands of the natives sonic kind of judicial inquiry should manifestly precede any act of retali ation."

Onr London correspondent writes : " The Governor of New Caledonia telegraphed to Paris on October 10th Hint there had been numerous cscapos among tho convicts em ployed in tho fields, and that two stations had been pillaged by them. The French troops wero in pursuit of them. This French colony seems tho pest of tho Pacific, and you may posaibly soon have a repetition of it in New Hebrides. The "Temps" strongly recommends tho French Govern ment to secure a coaling station there and exclude tho English, ns M. do Lesscps' canal is considered 'au fait accompli' by that journal."

The Thames "Star" says:—"The gallant Captain Casey, who now commands his own steamer to some of our pro vincial ports, has had to compromise a case iv which oue of hia passeugcrs were likely to tako proceedings in consequence of an accident which befel her. The matter was amicably arranged, and iv addition to tho sum paid tho old salt sent tho stiflercr n case of champagne, Tho accident, however, did not occur since the owner took charge of tho helm. Like a firudent man the Captain did not care for anding himself in a law suit where " the chapter offaccideuts " might result In the Court giving him a clean acquittal, but at the samo time making 'him to contribute numerous retainers, refreshers and sun dries for members of the legal profession. If numerous persons 'who arc fond of law were only to follow a similar Jcoursc, what an amount of litigation and unpleasantness might bo avoided, nnd moro good fellowship and amicable dealings follow."

The good dinners during tho German Autumn ManiDuvrcs proved too much for lord Rough ton's discretion. That cele brated diner-out nud charming conversa tionalist had a talk with young Kudolf, the Crown Princo of Austria, " as one gentleman with another." According to Lord Hongh ton (vice versa according to Prince Kudolf) 11. R.U. snid the Austrians would view tho dismemberment of the Turkish Empire with equanimity if thoy themselves had their flag on the fortifications of Salonica. Prince Kudolf is only twenty-two and is going to be married to the most charming young princess in Euiope (Princess Stlphanio of Belgium) in a month, so a little indiscrc tiou may be pardoned him. Lord Hough ton only mentioned the circumstance to " fivo or six intimate friends in conference," but " the precs is everywhere," and in a few days Europe talked of nothing else. As the combined fleets wore supposed to be pledged tv sec the Greeks in or near Salonica in spite of Turkish torpedoes, tho situation was awkward. The moral is, "beware of diners-out."

Tbe " British Medical Journal " has the followiug paragraph complimentary to our climate, that will probably send more of tho thin-skinned, overworked race who now shiver in England's chilly fogs to this side of tho worli :—"Tho rapid travelling of large steam-vessels is a disadvantage for those who go to sea for tho sake of pro tracted navigation. They reach their des tination too soon, and the changes of climate aro too rapid. In tho voyage to Australia, for instance, a few days after the departure from England, warm weather is reached ; then hot weather, when the tropic has been pnsicd ; moist as well as hot weather when the equatorial calms have been roached. As the vessel arrives near tho southern limit of its navigation in the Pacific Ocean, the temperaturo again becomes cold, Australia beiog reached in about 45 days. All these extreme changes, within so short a period, are very trying to those who aro really 111, and often do them more harm than the pure sea air cun do them good. Australia also is reached in tho middle of their summer; aud nt Melbourne and Sydney, whero most invalids go, it is too hot. In Tasmania aud New Zealand the climate is moro like that of our own English summer, and should, consequently be preferred. These long sea journeys, however, seem moro suited to those who belong to tho second category— to tho tirod and tho weary—than to the

really ill. The usual period for departure is October or November,"

Comparing the new Lord Mayor of Lon dos with the retiring one an English paper says :—" The year of oflico of Mr McArthur as Lord Mayor of London is likely to be of peculiar interest. The ex-Lord Mayor was very lavish, fond of show, and given to an ostentatious hospitality, ne entertained all manner of people, from Continental cor porations to Australian cricketers, and his year ot ollice fitly terminated with tbe Temple Bar job. But it must be recollected that he is a Tory, and longs for a baronetcy. The new Lord Mayor is a Liberal and a Wesleyan, more given to practical thrift than aldermanic turtle, and to a generous aid of philanthropic objects than to civic extravagance. It is even said that the November bliow will this year will be a very quiet affair, and that tho Noah's Ark style of display will be consideraoly curtailed. Whether the Londoners will appreciate this, remains to be seen. The Cockney dearly loves a cheap amusement, and sorely takes to heart aud resents any attempt at curtail ment. A few years ago Lord Mayor Allen mado an attempt to abolish some of the old civic customs, which seemed to him absurd, or worse- The only result wns that his h abby procession was hissed from Guild hall to Westminster by tbo street crowds, and since then his successors have cheer fully—not to say eagerly—consented to pose as the central figure of the time-honoured pageant, In this city the Lord Mayor has all the rank which a king can enjoy, and takes precedence of the Queen herself as soon as she passes "Temple Bar," On the death of a sovereign ho becomes, for the time, a member of the Privy Council ot the Kingdom, and he is the first subject who signs the declaration of tho successor's title to the throne. He is a justice in the criminal court and nominates tho justices for tbe neigh bouring shires. A silver-gilt mace, en graved with tlio royal anus, and a sword of state which was presented ti the city by Elizabeth, are borne beforo him. He is expected tojmaintain^thehospitable credit of the city, and for that purpose is allowed £10,000 as a salary, beside £8,000 tor a state coach, officers, servants, &c. And even with these liberal allowances each Lord Mayor usually spends many thou sands out of his own pocket. So splendid a 1 person as this could not be expected to dress like other peoplo, so his lordship woars a gown like that of the Lord Chancellor on ordinary state occasions, but when preced ing the Sovereign on royal visits to tho city, he is lobed in crimson velvet." .' SriOUL COAOHKB ABI FE^GRgEMMW^^

The man John Brown who fell down out side the Greyhouud Hotel on the 17th alt., and who was thought to have broken his leg, sustained nothing more serious than a strain or contusion. He is now conva lescent.

An elderly nian named John Cunning ham, who took part in the historic battle of Bull's Run during the American Civil War, has been lying at the Hospital for some time past, suffering from an unsightly tumour upon the back of the head, which he had carried about for fully twenty years ; but quite recently Dr. Pbilson performed an operation upon it which has resulted in its complete and successful removal. The patient is now effusive in his expressions of gratitude, and in bis acknowledgements of the doctor's surgical skill. According to him it was " a cliver job intirely," " The photographs in the New Zealan'J Court in the Melbourne Exhibition are no 1 surpassed'by any othors in the Exhibition, and those of Mr R. H. Bartlett, of Auck land, deserve the utmost commendation for the finished display which tbey have made. A frame of coloured photographs, the work of Miss Ellen Stuart, of Auckland, is also worthy of mention as being an exhibit of which nny artiste might bo proud."—" Mel bourne Leader."

The Auckland correspondent of the "Thames Star" writes;—" There is an immense amount of gossip over tbe alleged report that ono of the valuers under the Property Assessment Act'got a young pig from oue of his constituents during the progress of his valuations. I Buppose it would be outside tho sphere of a newspaper correspondent to even hit at the reasons which actuated tho donor in making such a handsome present, but very likely there was something "piggy" iv it and a little more. Speaking ot the tax lam reminded that the third inßtant was the last day of sending in objections to the valuations, and if only the four deserters of their party had hoard half, or even a third of the "compli ments " paid them tor aiding and making it law, tbey would bo in fear and trembling fiom ever after appearing either in public or before their constituents."

Tho usual notifications of religious ser vices to morrow will bo found in our advertising columns.

A branch of the Union Bank has been opened at Levuka, Fiji,

A salo of wool, skins, nnd hides will take placo at Messrs Hunter and Nolan's auction mart on Monday noxt, at 2 p.m.

The usual meeting for Bible reading and united prayor will bo hold this evoning, at 7.30, In the hall of tho Young Mon's Christian Asso ciation.

It ia the intention of the Masonic Dancing Class, hold In tho Mnsonlo Hall, Nowton, who havo hica carrying it on very kuccossfully for tho last six month*—to hold a ball iv tho above hall on Friday evening, January 2ith, the ovonlng provious to tho regatta. Tho tlclceta have already boen issued, und are Bulling well. No doubt all who attend this favourite dancing hall on that evening will tnoroughly enjoy tlicmßclvos;! and tho prico of v doublo ticket being only fis—everything Included—sdiould bring it within tho moans of all.

CABLEGRAMS.

EUROPEAN.

[EKUTBB'3 TELBOBAMSiJ

MR PARNELL MOVES AN AMEND. MENT ON THE QUEENS SPEECH, LONDON, January 6.

Mr Parnell has taken his seat in the House of Commons, and has given notice of an amendment on the address-in-rcply to the Queen's speech stating that he is convinced that peace in Ireland will not be promoted by suspending the existing laws.

THE IRISH BILLS,

The introduction of bills for the adoption of the County Government in Ireland, to secure protection to persons and property, and to restrict the sale and possession of arms has been notified, and Mr Gladstone will move that the discussion ot these mea sures shall take precedence of everything until they are passed.

DISCUSSION ON IRISH AFFAIRS, LONDON, January 7.

In the House of Lords today, tbe address in-reply to the speech from the Throne was voted, after a short debate. Iv tbe course of the latter, Earl Beaconsfield said that the Government, by rcfusiiig the policy of bis administration, had endangered the peace of Ireland, and he blamed the Ministers for not having earlier adopted a coercive policy. He advised them not to weaken the hands of the Executive iv Ireland. Earl Granville, in reply, deuied the assertion of Lord Beaconsfield, and argued that the Government were not alone answerable tor the state of affairs iv Ire land. Ministers were, he said, determined to enforce a respect for the law in that country.

In the Houso of Commons, the debate on (he address-iii-reply is proceeding. Sir Stafford Northcote attacked and Mr Glad stone defended, the policy of the Govern ment in Ireland, lie admitted that the condition of the country was shameful; but urged that earlier action was not justified for repression of the disorder without steps being taken to redress the grievances of the people. The debate has been adjourned to next sitting.

TIIE POPE ON IRISH AFFAIRS, LONDON, January 7.

The Pope has written a letter to the Arch bishop of Dublin, in which he strongly condemns the method of agitation adopted by the Irish people to obtain a redress of their grievances. He trusts justice will bo done to them by the Government; but expects that Irishmen will respect the laws of their country.

THE PANAMA CANAL.

The first batch of engineers to undertake the construction of the Isthmus Canal has embarked lor Panama.

OPENING

OF TUE

IMPERIAL

PAHLIAMKNT,

LONDON, January G.

Parliament was opened to-day by the Queen's Speech, which referred to the con tinued maintenance of the iiuropean concert, nnd said that there was every reason to hope that a peaceful solution of the Tuiko- Greek difficulty would be arrived at. Alluding to the state of affairs in Southern Africa, the speech said that owing to the rebellion of the Boers it was necessary to take strong measures to reassert British authority in the Transvaal. The outbreak in Basutoland would soon, it was hoped, bo suppressed. Regarding Afghanistan, the speech announced that it was not intended to retain Knndshar. Referring to the un settled state of Ireland, the speech stated that Her Majesty's Uovernmcnt would in troduce Bills to provide for the necessary coercive measures for the suppression of the existing agitation, and a Bill would at the same time be brought forward dealing with the Irish land question.

.LONDON, January 6, evening,

The forecast of the Queen's speech as previously telegraphed is fully confirmed by the speech as delivered, except in regard to the Greek frontier question, re ferring to which the speech states that the Great Powers aud England will determine the delimitation of the frontier. Regard ing the Transvaal, the speech states that the rebellion there has indefinitely post poned the plans which were to have been iuitiatcd for securing au administrative autonomy'to the settlers. Hegarding Ireland it is Baid that the social conditions of the country is alarming. In fact aa extensive system of terrorism prevails. Additional powers are requisite to deal with the state of affairs, aud the Government will recom mend the devclopement of the Land Act. The speech further states that it will be proposed to abolish corporal punishment iv the army aud navy.

AUSTRALIAN.

COMMERCIAL,

ADELAIDE, Saturday,

Wheat, 4s 4d, with good demand ; town flour, £10 10s to £10 12s Od ; country brands, £9 5s to £9 7s 6d ; freights to United Kingdom from Adelaide, 47s 6d ; from outporis, 50s.

SYDNEY, January 7,

Ilenucssy's brandy, case, 30.s 6d; bulk, quarters, lis; kerosene, Diamond, per gallon, Is 7_d ; Devoe'o lserosinc, Is ld ; Patua rice, per ton, £23; sugar, Company's No. 1, pieces, perton, £35; New Zealand wheat, per bushel, 4s Id; Now Zealand oats, per bushel, 2s; maize, per GOlbs, 2s id ; tobacco, Raven Twist, per lb, Is 3_d ; candles, J.R.J.'s, SJd ; D.R.O.'s, Sid.

SYDNEY, January 7,

Bishop Barker, who had a severe attack of paralysis, is steadily recovering.

GOOD TEMPLAR GRAND LODGE.

Eighth Sitting.

The Grand Lodgo resumed its sitting yes terday morning at 9.30, Brother Johnston, G.W.C.T., presiding. The minutes of the previous sittings were read and confirmed. Brother Hill, G.W.V.T,-elect, was reported to be seriously ill. A vote of sympathy was moved to the Brother by the Lodge. The report of the Juvenile Templars' Committee was submitted, but, after a very long de bate, the recommendations of the com mittee were not adopted. It was resolved that the Gisborne Hall dispute be referred to tho incoming executive. The Political Committee brought up its report, recom mending that in view of an early general election, a Grand Electoral Deputy bo appointed, with District Electoral Deputies iv each centre of population, to concentrate the political power of the Order, so that only candidates who will vote for " the popular control of the liquor traffic" should be adopted aud supported. The Lodge adjourned at 12.30 p.m.

Ninth Sitting.

j The Lodgo was called to order at 2 p.m. Tho adjourned discussion on the political j action of the Order wns resumed, and after full discussion, the principal recommenda tions of the Political Committee were adopted, Some discussion then ensued on a motion that an attempt be made to estab lish nn ors.au to propagate the principles of tho Order throughout the jurisdiction. It was agreed to open communications with the New South Wales Good Templars in the meantime, nnd that this question bo adjourned till the next annual session. The election of G.S.J.T. and G.E.D. was then proceeded with. Sister Honiss was re-elected GS.J.T., aud Brother Jenkins was elected G.E.D. In consequence of the illness of Brother Hill, nominations for the office of G.W.V.T. were taken ; Sis'cr Troy was unanimously elected G.W.V.T. It was resolved that Brother Sir W. Fox (P.G.W.C.T.) be also placed on the executive. A vote of regret that Brother Hill had been unable to be installed in tho office he had been elected to, was carried. Tho installation of Grand Officers then took placo, when the following were installed, viz. :—Brother Johnston (Wellington) G.W.C.T. ; Brother Price (Wellington) G.W.C.; Sister Troy (Napier), G.W.V.T.; Brother Ellis (Auck land ),U.W. P.j Brother Fleming (Onehunga). G.W.T.; Brother Hemus, sen. (Auckland), G.C. ; Brother Hooker (Taranaki), G.M. ; Brother McGlasban (Wellington), G.G. • Brother Fletcher (Thames), G.S. ; Brother Potts (Thames), A.G.S. ; Brother Howell (Taranaki), D.G.M.; Brother Turrell (Thames), G.M. ; Brother Jenkius (New market), G.E.D.; Sister Honiss (Thames), G.S.J.T. Brothers Longbottom and Keet ley were appointed auditors for the year Brother Johnson, G.W.0.T., having re". turned thanks for the honour conferred upon him, and the retiring ollicers having been thanked for their past services, the Grand lodge adjourned at 5.30 p.m., to meet again next year at New Plymouth.

"Why do wo weep ?" asks an amateur poet. Sit down on a carpet tack or eat a last year s onion and you'll find out. Just os great m-m are targets for envy nnd jealousy toaim their shafts at, so is a celebrated propretary medicine a shining mark fo? kicksters to rob ot Its lustre. This species of piracy is a mean type of pilfering It Is tho name thit "carries tho game," thov can conooct, the most pernicious bovVrage, the most destructive poisons, the most bogusi compoSds l».h«l H oV„ er rl«^ R them wi,h tho imprint and Wnifc^L??^ 0 601 ori Binal. like Udolpho Wolfes Schiodam.Aromatici Schnapps, oalro off r HIGH-aTItKKT, AUCKLAND : 1

THE RELEASED MAORI PRISONERS.

(Hi TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRESPONDENT,)

NORMANBY, this day. AMONG the prisoners returned by the Hinemoa are some of the fencing men, as well as those of the ploughmen, and evtn some of thoso who were latc'y sentenced to two year's imprisonment are released.

The NgatiruaDUi have returned to Pari haka with many dray loads of pigs and corn.

THE TE AROHA GOLDFIELD.

(BY TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

HAMILTON, this day. The Prosperity, Tc Aroha, commenced blasting the reef yesterday. The first shot exposed good goldbearing stone. The shareholders are now breaking out 5 tons for crushing. The reef v penetrated for a distance of 5 feet, und no appearance of tho footwall.

GRAHAMSTOWN, this day.

At Te Aroha last w'ghl a meeting was held at which it was resolved to form a company to raise £1000 for the erection of v ten stamper battel y at once. Preliminary directors at tbe Waikato and Thames were formed.

Although work has been resumed in all the claims there is very little fresh to report in connection with them, nor will there be until operations have been continued a few days longer. The warden is determined that all the claims not having leases shall bo fully manned, and the Mining Inspector arrived for the purpose of making a tour of inspection and seeing that the official in structions to claim-holders are being car. ried into effect.

The shareholders of iho Golden Crown, a claim situated on the spur on which Frater. villc stands, cut a small leader about three inches thick In their drive yesterday. They expect to cut the Golden Anchor reef iv about eight feet more driving. Mr J. E. Pounds, of the Auckland branch of the Union Bank, Mr Levy, and several others from Auckland, arrived here this morning, aud have been spending the day in visiting the claims. The Warden considered the applications for water rights, re Mr John Gibbons. The applicant's son appeared, and gave particu lars in regard to the proposed water race. The' Warden granted the application on con dition that if required two sluice heads were to be reserved for domestic purposes. The application of Mr Charles McLean for six sluice heads from the creek in the High School reserve was adjourned for a month.

Re Mr James Gribble.—The application of this gentlemau for five sluice heads from the creek near the United Claim, of which he is the manager, was granted. Re Mr Henry Hopper Adams.— There was no appearance of applicant. The warden stated that he would giant the ap. plication as a second right, provided a plan of the proposed race was lodged by the 12th inst.

(r/ROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT,)

TE AROHA, Jauuary 6. AFTER THE HOLIDAYS.

Protection having expired on the 4th inst., work has been resumed in the majority of the claims registered. Some have been abandoned, and the owners have departed for other fields. During the holidays but few miners remained in the township, and all the claims, with the exception of the Don, Smile of Fortune, and one or two others, ceased work, but the carpenters have been busy, for Te Aroha now boasts of about fifty new buildings on the flat that a few weeks ago was but a dreary waste, where the swamp hen and the rcorepork held high carnival by themselves. The contractors in the Te Aroha Company's tuunel are still iv very tight country, and progress is necessarily slow. No sinking has yet commenced in the winze, but I understand that operations in the leader will be resumed on Monday next.

PROSPECTING UP THE RIVER,

During the holidays a prospecting party started up the aivcr, and have found gold some two or three miles from the waterfalls about eighteen miles distant from this town ship. The find is repotted to consist of several small gold-bearing stringers running through r. good sandstoue country. The prospectors aro following these veins, which they expect will lead them on to a good reef. A pack-horse with provisions left hero yesterday for the prospector's camp. I believe that it was in this locality that Col. Chesney some years ago discovered gold and repotted the same to the Government. A party of natives yesterday registered a claim on the lower boundary of the Don, a native having picked up a stone on the surface showing gold, and the paity are vigorously searching for the reef. A public meeting is to be held to-morrow afternoon to consider tho advisability of forming a company for the purpose of erecting a bat tery.

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Before R. C. Barstow, Esq., R.M.),

DRUNK AND DISORDERLY

Daniel Gleeson was charged with being fouud drunk and disordcily in Lome-street, this being his seventh offence of like character.

Prisoner pleaded guilty. Mr Pardy said prisoner was in a state bordering upou insanity. Remaudcd until the 17th inst, .1 LARCKNV.

Thomas Vesy, on warrant, was charged with the larceny Of 1 shirt, 1 white petti coat, 1 pair of drawers, and 1 sheet, value 15s, the property of Alexander Johnston, of Auckland, on or about tho 3rd of Janu ary. Prisoner said he was innocent, and asked to be remanded till Monday. " !'" 3

Remanded accordingly. ABSCONDED,

Robinson, Wells, Hanua, and Smith, four boys ranging from teii to twelve yfjars of age, were charged with absconding from the Naval Training school.

Prisoners admitted the charge. Captain Breton asked that His Worship might deal very severely in this case, as the boys thought they could do as they pleaded. Robinson aud Wells had absconded before.

Wells and Robinson were ordered.,to be sent back to school, and each receive 20 lashes; Hanua to receive 12 lashes, and Smith to return to school.

LARCENY.

William Anderson, and William Irwin, were charged with the larceny of a quantity of timber, value 3s, the property of Mr Stevenson, of Auckland, on the 7th inst Prisoners pleaded guilty. Mr Pardy said there was a now house In course of erection in Symonds-street, and last evening the constable saw the boys taking tho timber. His Worship said that if he could punish the parents he would certainly do so. They recoived the things knowing them to be stolen. No doubt tho children were provided with bags and sent to prowl about to see what they could get. His Worship also cautioned the mother of one of the boys who was ia Court, and stated that if the wood had been found in her house she wonld certainly have had several months in Mount Eden.

She said her boy went of his own accord for the wood.

His Worship said the only way in which he could punish such parents vm to send the children to the Industrial tome and make them pay pretty severely for their maintenance.

His Worship said that on this occasion he would discharge the boys, but if th^y were ever brought up agaiu on a like offence he would certainly order them to be sent to the Industrial School.

This was all the busincsss,

THEATRE ROYAL.

" H.M.S. Pinafore " was reproduced at the Theatre last night to a poor house. The cast was as follows :—Josephine, Miss Alico Lingard; Little Buttercup, Miss T. Huran; Hebe, Miss Ethel Adellc; Caroline, Miss Duke; Clorinda, Miss C. Clifford; Sir Joseph Porter, Mr W. 11. Lingard; Cap tain Corcoran, Mr A. Campbell; The Boat swain, Mr C. W. Craig ; Boatswain's Mate, Mr G. Thornton ; Ralph Rackstraw, Mr F. Dawson ; Dick Deadeye, Mr 0. Westford; Dingle Dantou (midshipman), Mr F. A. Hall; Tom Tucker (raidshipmite), Master D. Hill. The remarks which wc made on the occasion of the last presentation of the opera by the Liugards iv this city apply with equal force now so tbat there is no need for a lengthened criticism. The rendering of the chotuses and concerted passages gener ally is susceptible of considerable improve ment. Still "H.M.S. Pinafore" b ■ pleasing and refreshing chauge from "Tho Wreck of the Pinafore." It will be re peated to-night, and on Monday evening a dramatisation of Wilkio Collins' thrilling ■stance ..^Tho.^.M^i'-'lnr |jjJ|

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, SATURDAY JANUARY S



Special Advertisements. A pURK (IABH orSTRM. / p\ ALL DRAPER r & CLOTHING / S. \ AT \ -t /CO-OPERATIVE CASH \ 0/ PRICES, \/ AT THB /-IITY TTALL A RCADE, . , GARLICK & CRANWELL, Propbibtoes. AUSTRIAN BENT-WOOD FURNI TURE.—A Large Shipment just to hand, light and strong, suitable for Breakfast, Bitting, Dining, or Drawing-room (Slack, Walnut, and Light Colours. GARLICK & CRANWELL, City Hall Furnishing Aroade, Qneen-street. Auckland. ARPETS—The Largest Stock in the Pro vince to select from—all kinds. Tapestry, from 2a lid; Brussels, from Is lid ; Kid derminster, Felt, and Jute. The New Woro » stkr Stair Carpet, mado of Horse Hair, just received—the most durable Carpet over made. GARLICK fc CRANWBLL. BEDROOM FURNITURE.-A Great Variety always ready for delivery, to suit all classes. Cheßtsof Drawers, Waahstands, Toilet Tables and Wardrobes in various woods, Glasses and Toiletware. Bedding of all kinds and Bizes; Spring Mattresses. GARLICK & CRANWELL. XHIBITION Designs in Iron Bedsteads.— We keoD tho Greatest Variety of Iron Bedsteads in Town, and am Importers direot from the manufacturers. Hand some Wood Bedsteads from our own Factory. GARLICK Sc CRANWBLL. GARLICK & "CRANWELL keep snch Largo Assortment of General Household Furniture tnat you can Furnish a House throughout from their stock at a day's notico. , , .. ~ DRAWING-ROOM Suites in stock, suitable for a Cottago or a Mansion, all uphol stered by ourselves and guaranteed. Snltes for Dining and Sitting Rooms in various styles. GARLICK & CRANWELL. NLY Warehouse in Town conducted on tbe London System, combining all depart ments of Furnishing, Drapery, and Clothmg. ___,_. hall AROADH!i FIVE Per Cent Cash Discount on all kinds of Furniture, Carpets, Matting, Floorcloths. Ironmongery, Toiletware, and Brash ware. GARLICK Se CRANWELL. OOK CATALOGUES, post free or on applica tion, to those intending to Furnish. Esti mates and designs given. Carpets made up. Linoleum and Oilcloths laid. Needle work mounted. All kinds of Upholstery and Cabinet-work by flrßt-class workmen. inspect our stock: The .Largest in Auckland ! GARLICK & CRANWELL, CITY HALL ARCADE, QOEBN-STBEKT & LOBNB-STBEET, AUCKLAND



Mrs Deacon, an American lady, has been voted a prettier woman than either Mrs Langtrey or Mrs West. Tho fact that she has had the honour of dancing with the Prince cf Wales will probably so turn her nose up, however, that she won't be even pasuably good-looking hereafter.



"°° TngUsnPrTces."" I UT Repairs neatly and promptly executed. J 25, Grey-street, awkiahp.



Special Advertisements. M- MUR CH I E, MERCHANT TAILOR AND IMPORTER. FRESH ARRIVALS. English and Scotch Twekds-T cases by 'Loohnagar' , -.. , . „ Serve Suitings In Bluo and Black, of a New Mako ond Finiab Something New In Bannookburn Twoods, which was awarded Ist prizo at the Sydney Exhibition . „, , . Saxony Tweeds in Blue and Black, of superior quality and now doßlgn. Another Consignment to arrive by ' Fernglen. Samples mailed to any addross. Tho Immense quantity of Clothing wo ship to tho largo cities and towns in the oolony Is a sufllolont guarantee that the QUALITY and MAKE of these Goods cannot bo equalled. Orders by mail will receive our best attontion. WANTED, four Flrst-closs Tailors, to whom constant employment will, bo given et tho ten penny log. M. MURC HI E, Opposito Arch. Clark & Son's, land Street, WHEN tho Immortal Bard wrote, "Throw Physio to tho dogs," he had not heard of SHARLAND'S SARSAPARILLA, A pleasant and aromatlo BLOOD-MAKING FLUID. Unsurpassed in tho world in aroma, richness, and flavour ; a bright golden fluid. Had Bhakspearo now lived, ho would havo called three timos a day for SnARLAN'D'B SARSAPARILLA BITTERS, A Genuine Tonic and Appetiser, A LIVER STIMULANT, And Dispeller of tho Megrims or Blues. Ask your Merchant, your Purveyor, your Hotol Proprietor, for Saarland's Sarsaparilla and Sarsaparilla Bittors, and sco that no other is substituted. Sold in Quart Bottles. _____ ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SALE WILL COMMENCE ON MONDAY, 20T1I inst. THE GOOD 3 WILL BE OFFERED AT pt 0S T T> RI C E 1 FOR A FEW WEEKS ONLY 1 In Order to Clear Heavy Stocks t pOBGRAYE & rf^O., Importers op DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, queen-street, Auckland. _£ _?. —No Goods will be entered during the Sale. O ALT. 1000 BAGS W. & W. FINE 1000 BAGS W. & W. COARSE ON HAND AND TO ARRIVE PER 'LOCH URR,' From London. In lots to Buit purchasers. W. S. LAUR IX, 7. Wyndham-street. QTRANGERS AND TRAVELLERS Visiting Auckland will find the LARGEST OUTFITTING STOCK IN THE COLONS' To Select from at THE N_W ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. Thousands of Customers testify to tho Ouperior /Quality & twitting Of the Garments mado by them. The Stock of SHIRTS, TIES, HATS, and HOSIERY, Is very large, and Includes a CHOICE ASSORTMENT OF NOV|ELT|IES FOR THE HOLIDAYS. A special supply of PORTMANTEAUX BAGiS, RUG 3, and all Travelling Requisites for Tourists. AUCKLAND BRANCH: Queen-street (opposite Theatre Royal), And at Albert-Btreet, Thames, J. FHZSIMONS. Manager. IjjTEW /^OODS And -Ttf-OVELTIES FOB TJIS! TTOLIDAY CEASON AT RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN'S, A Choice Lot of LADIES' NEW LACE AND SILK CAPES SILK SQUARES, Etc LACE FICHUS, A JOB LINE VERY CHEAP. SON SHADES AND umbrellas. Ribbons, Gloves, &c. NEW AND SEASONABLE DRESS MATERIALS In Very Great Variety. AST SOME job lines very cheap.-ss ' SATEENS, POMPADOUR. GALATEA STRIPES. fITO. GE.NERAL AND FURNISHING DRAPERY of every description. Summer Clothing ".»• tor Boys' and Men's Weak. SILK DUST COATS. ALPACA and HOLLAND COATS. Full Stocks of WHITE SHIRTS. OXFORD SHIRTS, TIES SCARVES, COLLARS, &C Straw, Leghorn and Rush Hats, of all kinds for Boys and Men. Is In the £ Discount allowed upon all Cash Purchases of 20s and Upwards. JPUSHBROOK &'T>RIDGMAN JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE [Opposite the Army and Navy Hotel], Upper Queen-street, Auckland



W INKb & jnTALL, j HAVE! REMOVED FROM SHORTLAND-STREET TO TEMPORARY PREMISES IN FORT STREET, OPPOSITE COCHRANE AND SON'S AUCTION MART, AND WILL CONTINUE THEIR CHEAP SALE FOR A FEW WEEKS LONGER, TO CLEAR SURPLUS STOCK. THEY WILL REMAIN IN- FORT-STREET I DURING THERE-BUILDING OF TEEIR WARE HOUSE IN SHOBTLAND-STBEET. Agent for Auckland t OR.AYES Alw*• *a t ■SB9 PHAlpiAO^Oy««^g^^^



HOLJLAND & BUTLER, OIL AND CUSS MERCHANTS.