SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE

HIGH WATER} To^orrow^orainß, 0.19 S<UNSKT.-Thls Evening, 6.21 PUNRIBK.-To-Morrow Morning, 6.37 MOON'S AGK.-Now Moon, 28th, 10.3 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Blßinore, schooner, Stevens, from Tairna Onward, sohoonpr, Pannou, froni Rnssell Gem, schooner, Pcarco, from Tairua OpitiKi, BOhooner, Collings, from Tairua

TO-DAY. Wellington, a.s., Farquhar. from Tauranga Tararua, b.s,, Garratd, from Sydney

DEPARTURES.

Glimpse, barquo, Morris, forJKusseii Tararua, ss., Garrard, for tho South

PROJECTED DKPARTURKS Melbourne and Sonth-Tararun, b.B^ Thursday Taranaki and South-Hawoa, Tuoßday, lUtn Russell-lona. Monday ; Wellington, Wednoa-

Whangarel and Hussell-Wollington, Wednos-

Whangaroi-Argylo. Tuesdays and Fridays WeUington, Wednesday and Friday

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Wolverine,H.M.S., from Sydney, shortly Hortha H.1.G.M.. from Melbourne, daily Ka?b^q Pue,Toi°LoSdon; to sail January

Chife 5, barquo, from London; sailed pecombor 23 Orient, barque, from New York; to sail iob-

Poru?barquo, from London; sailed Jan. '2 Loch Deo, barque, from London ; sailed Deoom-

Halcione, ship, from London; loading Looh Doon, bnrque, from London -loading Coronilla, barque, from London ; loading Jan. 0 Saperior, barque, from New York, sailed CatarfoWh.ibarquo (3.Q.M.J.). from Hongkong Thames, barquo. from Adelaide Emperor, brig, from Lyttoltori Orwell, brigantine, from tho "jihuib Myrtle, brigantine, from Friendly Islands Kthol, brigantino, from Dunodin Ryno. brlgaMino. from Romman RoderioK Dhu, brigantine, from Dunodin Borealia. brigantino, from Aitutaki Flirt, brigantine. from Samoa Rachel Cohen, schooner, from Dunodin Caledonia, sohooner. from Samoa Mazeppa, sohoonor, from Rarotonga Marion, sohoonor, from Noumea Policeman, Bohoonor, from Noumea *gnes Donald, schooner, from Rarotonga Sovereign, sohoonor, from Rarotonga Coronet, schooner, from Aitutaki lamarn, eohooner, from Sydney Clfde, schooner, from Lyttelton Nightingale, sohoonftr, from Samoa Gael, sohooner, from Levuka Saxon, sohooner, from Lyttelton Tores, schoonor, from Lyttolton Winifred, sohooner, from Now Hebrides Atotohau, sohooner, from Rarotonga Ovalau, schooner, from Rarotonga Annie Wilson, schooner, from Westport Belle Brandon, sohooner, from Samoa Norval, schooner, from Norfolk Island Griffin, schooner, from Admiralty Iflland

Inwards Coastwise— Logoon. from Mer cury Bay, with 23,813 feet sawn timber. OCTWARDSCOASTWISE.-Mariner for Russell; Opotiki. for Opotiki; Mercury, for Tairua; Adah, for Whangarei. Ponder, Hail, Taiwhangs, andTahuranga. The brigantine Orwell left Auckland on tho 24th December last, and has since vUned the Islandsi of tho N.K. Samoan Group. Sho called at Apia for water and some articles of trade on ith March. Rnd continued on her voyage to Lime Islands on tho following day. Captain Grey has been appointed to tho com mand of the Revenue schooner Hawk, and Mr Garriok will occupy the post of ohief officer. . The Eastern and Australian Steamship Com pany have decided to lay on a steamer from Foochow for New Zealand ports direct, bringing \™ new seasons teas and that the steamer Bowen will be despatched from that port for AucklandTNapler. Wellington Nelson, Lyttel tonTand Port Chalmers, about the end of The schooner Sissy has entered out at the Customs for Suva via Mercury Bay. The Auckland schooner Belle Brandon, which arrived at Apia from this port on the 27th FebJuarv last, was to have left about March 3 for a cruise to the limo Islands. The s.s. Tararua is announced to leave for Rodgers. For Melbourne-Mr W. Bell. The schooner Faiilie from this port via Whangaroa, arrived at Sydney on 12th instant, having experienced very unsettled weather on the passage across. The s.s. Wellington arrived from Tauranga this afternoon,with about 3 tons sundriesland the following paasengers :-Mrs Reid, Messrs Simpkins, Kelly. Anderson, Wells, Rea , Davis, Shepherd Martin, McKenzie, Darrell, Dove, O'Brien, Allen, Clayton, Jones and i steerage.

The 8.8. Stella is expected to leave for Northern ports this evening. The s.B. Wellington was delayed some hours yesterday at Tauranga through getting abound while lying at tho wharf. Some time beforo tho tide had fuily ebbed it was seen that she was not afloat, to the dismay of intending passen gers who were detained for nearly seven hours longer than they had anticipated. Waiting for the moon to rise, however, aa well as the tide, was another erase of the delay. The attend ance of this little incident on tho first trip of the Wellington under new management was not very »lspiolons; and it is to be hoped that grounding when alongside the wharf will not o™ur very often. If it doe?, steps wiU be taken to lengthen the structure into deeper water. The WeUingtDn is not a very large steamer, but it would seem from tho circumstances just received that she is quite largo enough for the oort of Tauranga. It may alao be mentioned that the Glenelg grounded.in the channel on Monday last, though well within the buoys. The brigantine Matautau which left Auck land bound for Apia on January 15, experienced very rough weather in the earlier part of her voyage, having lost a boat and her fore rigging damaged in a gale off Savage Mand.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

RCS3ELL, this day.

The following vessels are at the loading ground :-Orpheus, Sea Breeze, Cutty Sark, Golden ißle, Ocean, Christina, Wild Duck, Ruby, Spitfire, Columbia, Speedwell, Gipsy, and Leo. Sailed: Start. Coromandbl, this day. The steamer Coromandel will be laid up for inspection on Monday and Tuesday next. Wellington, yesterday. Arrived : Penguin, b.b., from Picton and Nelson. Sailed: Wanaka, s.s., for the South. Nelson, this day. Balled: Hawea. for New Plymouth, at mid night. Port Chalmhrs, yesterday. Arrived: Albion, 8.5.. from the North. Sailed Te Anau, lor Auckland, via Bast Coast ports.

THE WEATHER.

/.a OBSERVED AT TELEGRAPH STATION 3 APEII. 21, 1881. ' Windi irf~4J ~^T ~~a jl a s" State of Sea, —- 1 1 1j 1 .b Tauranga.... O. C. 30.4061 B. sea calm iapier C. C. 30.1656 B. heavy swell Taranakl.... 3.X. U 30.07 59 C.G seamoderate Wanganui... v 7. L. 30.08 58 B.C sg&:& assss Greymouth.. S.W. L. 30.20-C. sea smooth Lyttelton....N.E. U 30.10668.C Timaru C. C. 2^.90 56 B.C sea smooth Oa£Snf...:a. C. 30.02 56 R as^k a assis C —Calm V. Br.—Fresh Breeze Li-light St.-Stormy Br.-Breeze G.—Gale (2.) ANEROID BAROMETER. (3.) -WEATHER ESTIMATED AS B -Blue sky, be the at-10.-Overcast,the whole mosphere clear or sky covered with heavy thick clouds C — Clouds, passing P.-Paßsintc showers clouds Q.-Squally D.-Drizzllng rain R. — Rain, continued F.—Fogey raln G - Gloomy, dark S.-Snow weather T.—Thunder weatner _ Ugly> tnreatenlng L.'-Lightninß appearance

COMMERCIAL.

KVKNiNa Star Office, Wednesday. At Mr L. W. Eaton's Bale of fruit, the follow ing prioes were realised :-Oranges, 5Jd to 6d per dozen; pears, 7s 6d per case; apples, 9a to 10a per case. MB A. BUOKLAND'S REFOBT. At the Haymarket, on Tuesday last, hides were in fall numbers, and o£ exceptionally good quality. Prices were rather lower than have lately ruled, taking the quality into account, and ranged from 2|d to 3gd the pound. Sheep skins were in average supply and maintained their value. They brought from Is 9d to 2a 5a eaoh. Wool, 65d to 7i* the lb.; tallow, 19s the owt.—At Pokeno, on Monday, about 70 cattle were yarded, mostly calves and yearlings, and these were readily bought up by the settlers in the neighourhood.—At Drury. on Wednesday, there was an unusually large sale of all descrip tions ot stook. For young cattle and quiet cows near calving there were many buyers, and more Btock was required. Grown cattle were com paratively dull of salo and many were with drawn, although the bidding was fully hixher than has lately ruled,

Mail Notice.

Mails will Closh as Undicu.— This Day. For Whltianßl, Tulruti, Taurunga, and Opotikl. por Wellington, at 1 p.m. Por s.b. Tiirarua iib follows :— For India, China.Japan.Mcditeranoan Ports, and Continont of Kuropo, at i p.m. For Tauranga. Gisl)ornp, Niipior. Southern porta, Australian Colonies, and United Kingdom, via Bu°z, for lottors spocially ao prepaid and addressed, nt 5 p.m. For money orders, registorod lottora, and nowspavora, at 1 p.m. Lsito lottors till 5.20 p.m. For Thamoa, por Rotomuhana, at 5 30 p.m. Friday, 22nd instant. For Waitura, &c, por Kowonn, at 11 a.m. ForWaihokoand Coromandel, porCoromanuol, at 2.30 p.m. For Whangarci Heads, I'arua, Waipu, Whan goroi, and Tangihua, por Argylo, at 1 p.m. For Whitiangi, por Minnio Ilaio, at I p.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana. at fi 30 p.m. Saturday, 2l!rd instant. For Waitara. &0., per Lalla Hookh, at 8 am. For Wniwora, Mahuran«i, Matakana, Manga- Wfti, &c, por Rose Casey, at 9 a.m. Tuesday, 26th instant. For Taranakl and Southern Ports, por Wanaka, at 5 a.m. Tuesday, 20th instant. Por 8.8. City of Sydnoy. as follows :— For Sandwich Islands, Unitod Statos of America. Canada, British Columbia. Central and South America, and British and Foreign Woat Indios, at 1 p.m. For Unitod Kingdom and Continont of Kurope, at 1 p.m. For money ordors, rogistcrod lottors, and nowspapors, at 11.30 a.m. Lato letters bearing an nxtrafoo of sixponco. In addition to tho poatago, -will bo roooivod by tho Mail Agent on board tho stoamor up to the timo of sailing. Thin mail will bo duo in London on Tuosd&y, Juno 7, ISSI. S. 15. H133, Chief Postmaster. Chlof Post-offlco. Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

April 21at, ISSI,

Thoatro Royal — Simonson's Royal Opera Company, Vordi'sTragio Opera, "HTrovatoro," 8 p.m.

New North Road Congregational Anniversary Entertainment, G. 30 p.m.

Northcoto Hall—St. John tho Baptist Church Concert, 6.30 p.m.

Albort Hall-Gillies' Industrial Exhibition 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.

V.M.C.A.-Devotional and Bible Heading, 7 SO p.m.

St. Andrew's Mutual Improvement Class, Kssay, 8 pm.

Death.

MORTON.—On April 20. at his residence North Shore, Henry Mitten Morton, in tho C3rd year of his age. SYM3.—Died at tho Thamos. April 21, ISSI, Josoph Syms, ascd -15, fourtli son of Mr JosophSyms, lato of tho 2nd Dragoon Guards.

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

THURSDAY, APRIL 21, 1881.

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

The operations of the[l3ank of New Zealand are properly regarded as a good teat of the prosperity of the colony. A company cmployiuKresourcesrepresenting £11,995455 chieily in New Zealand must reilect io its successes the general proSPeu'y of its customers. The past half-year baa been remarkably successful, and while the share holders are to be congratulated upon another good dividend, those who do not participate in the division will feel au interest in the proofs which the report and its attendant speeches give of the progress of the land we live in. The devisible prolit fo* the half-year is about £1500 more than dur ing the previous half, but this does not re present the full extent of the improvement in business disclosed in the last half-year as compared with the provieus six mouths, for, according to the statement made by the chairman in nionDg the adoption of the report, £17,000 have been paid in tax. ation. It the property tax haa got down upon other capitalists in the same ratio, wealth will have contributed pretty well this year to the financial burdens of the colony. The source of the in creased business is diecovcrable in the fact that £770,^00, which was before lying on short call in London, lias since found more profitable investment in the colony ; and the wool season has also given a more active exchaDge. We are glad to be able to discover in this report signs oE the passing away of the monetary crisis in Now Zealand, and we believe, with the proposer and seconder of the report, that if ordinary prudence is exercised in the management of our public afFairs, the revival will be peij manent.

The rota of attendance for the Court of Petty Sessions to be held in the Court House on Tuesday next, the 26th inst., includes the following Justices of the Peace :—Messrs L. D. Nathan, J. Newman, A. O'NeiU, G. P. Pierce, O. B. Owen, F. L. Prime, G. Purchas, C. King, J. C. •Sharland, M. Shea, J. L. Tole, \V. St.

Clair Tisdall, A. K. Taylor. The meeting for the election of a chairman in the place of the late Colonel Nation will be held at noon of the same day, when all justices ate requested to be in attendance.

The prize won at the late Ponsonby Re gatta will bo handed over at the Pousonby Club Hotel, at 7.30. to-morrow (Friday) evening, when the committee will be in attendance.

As it has been stated that the Ponsonby crews were at fault in not comiDg to the point in the rowing races on the day of the regatta, the committee have decided to con sider the matter thi? evening. We believe they will permit the two gig races and the amateur scullers' race to be rowed again at an early date, with the object of satisfying all parties. The hearing of the libel action brought by Mr W. J. Hurst against Mr J. D. Wickham will be commenced at the Police Court to-morrow.

We learn that our account of the accident at the wharf yesterday was somewhat in accurate. The fact that a man had fallen over was discovered by Alexander Watson, one of the crew of the Lizzie. He was hailing hi 3 vessel, when he heard a noise under the wharf. He immediately pro cured a boat from the Sovereign, anrl on going to the spot from whence the sound proceeded, found Fisher, and hauled him up. He took him to the Sovereign, and all the native mentioned in our last issue did waa to assist in hauling Fisher up. He was at once handed over to the constable on watch.

A concert to liquidate the debt on St. James Catholic Church, Pukekohe, was held in A. Forbes new auction hall, on Easter Monday, and was well attended. The children of the school contributed the programme with nigger songs and dances, Their teacher, Miss Walmsley, was highly complimented. Father Golden thanked the performers. Fathers W. McDonald, and Paul were also present.

Mr W. H. Bennett is erecting a large family hotel on the Strand at Xauranga^. The Bay of Plenty Times of the 14th inst. gives a full description of the building occupying nearly two columns.

The Committee of the Ponsonby Ecgatta have disallowed the protest entered against the yacht Sybil, and she will therefore be entitled to first prize.

Very great regret will be felt at the in telligence of the death of Mr H. M. Morton, father of Mr H. B. Morton, of Custom- Ilouse-street, which took place at his resi dence, North Shore, yesterday. The deceased was a printer by trade, and on arrival in the colony in 1863 was engaged by the "Southern Cross" proprietary to take charge of the "Weekly News," tlien iust starting. Of late years ho has been manager in his son'a ollicc. During his eighteen years' residence in tho colony the deceased gentleman secured many sincere friends, lie was a man of sterling character and genial disposition.

At St. Andrew's Mutual Improvement Association this evening an essay on " Tho History of Steam" will be read by MrGco. Frasor, Junr., followed by one on "The Atmosphere and its Effects" by Mr T. Latta. Both gentlemen have devoted a large amount of time to their respective papers, and an interesting evening may therefore; be expected. The meeting opens at7.:SO.

Owing to Ilia unsatisfactory finish of the race for boats under twelve fout ut the Pon sonby regatta, the owners have decided to have a sweepstake of a £1 each, the .same to be lodged with Mr Gallagher, at the Thistle Hotel, on Monday night at eight o'clock. Aw several of tha boats have not yet been tried a very good race may he ex pected.

The Naval Brigade will parade for in spection to-morrow evening as per advertise ment. The ollicera of this corps endeavour by their attention at the weekly parades to keep up the elliciency of those under their command, and they deserve the attendance and attention ot every man that can be present.

At the Police Court, Onehunga, on Wed nesday, four young men named It. Mclvor, J. McGrath, T. Lloyd and (.}. McQuay, were charged with lighting iv the street on Sunday afternoon near an hotel at One hunca. The charge ugaiust MoQuay was withdrawn, as it appeared lie had been en deavouring to make peace. The other three youug men were each lined £2 and 14s costs.

John Bright who bad charge of llanlan before bin race with Trickett, and " showed him up" on the day, avers that when llanlan had rowod about a mile in the rnco with Trickctt, be signalled that ho was dono and could go no further. ISrighl therefore made signs to Ward, who was on the umpire's boat, and Ward responded to tho ell'eet that Hunlun was to keep on at all hazards. Directly after this Trickett cracked, and tho [narrowness of his escape caused llanlan to become overjoyed, and to disport himself so remarkably above Hammersmith.—Sydney Bulletin.

A tremendous light took place last night in Queen-street which attracted v crowd, many of whom [evinced a feeling of savage pleasure iv witnessing the hard kuockH and How of blood down tho rough faces of the

antagonists. Both men, however, were moro or less under the inlluence of strong drink, which seemed to give force to their muscles, and insensibility to their physical frames. Constable Kenyon enme up, and with some assistance marched the pugilists to the station. Leary, a very old offender, who had been convicted about sixty times,

was apparently the aggressor, and Sikes, the other prisoner, acted, so he said, on the defensive, and had not been in Court fur several years. The Bench, however, served them both alike, imposing a line of £10 in each case, or in default three mouths with hard labour.

The "Pa 1 Mall Gazette " extracts from a local newspaper a choice specimen of the way in which—not very Irarcly, it is to be feared—white Christians, lighting against heathen blacks, rejoice in being more brutal thau their enemies. This is how " an officer and a gentleman" writes about the Basutos, whom he was helping to slaughter last November :—" The niggers had massed an immense army. There arc about HO,OOO or ■10,000 of them, but I hope we shall yet be iibli! to give it them hot, and pay them well for all their cruelties to us. The colonel has given orders for no man to take a prisoner, but to kill at once, and that we are all glad to hear. The other day a nigger came up to our camp and pretended to be friendly, but one of our men took up his gun and blow his brains out. lie was ouly live yards from him, and the bullet wont clean through his head. The man was brought up for court-martial, but all of us-2,500 in number—said we would lay down our arms if he got punished, so Col. Clarke told him he was exonerated from all blame, aud the announcement was received with great cheers all around the camp."

A team of Thames school boya came to Auckland last week, and played cricket matches against the lads of Wollesloy street school, aud the Grammar School. They wero easily beaten in both games.

Mr and Mrs Hogau, who have been appointed as master and matron of the llowe-strcet Industrial Home, will enter uiioii their duties on Mondtiy next. Mr Hogau was employed for several yearn iv the police force at the Auckland station as lockuouse-keeper, and subsequently was trausferred to the South. We think the committee has made a good choice, and that the newly-appointed master will prove him self to be the "right man in the light place." Dr. Harvey retires from the manngement at the close of the present week.

The annual meeting of subscribers and friends of the St. Stephen's Orphanage will l>-< held on Thursday evening next, in the Hume. His Worship, the Mayor, has kiudly consented to preside.

The Itcv. C. M. Pvm will pi each his last sermnn in Al! Saints Church to-morrow evening. Service to commence at 7.30. p.m. Thin gentleman has had a busy time of it since his appearance in the colonies, and particularly in Auckland, where he has found many supporters. He will, no doubt, curry with him into Yorkshire many favour able impressions of this country.

When the insurrection of the Boers broke out Sir George Collcy had 4,100 men under his command, scattered through the Trans vaal.

Atthe lastmonthly meetihg of the Austra lasian Institution of Marine Kugineera ia Sydney, the report of the general secretary on the state of affairs in New Zealand was read, and received the full approbation of tho members. The advantages which the instutution had conferred upon tsi members and the profession generally, by bringing to an amicable settlement the difficulty that had been so long pending with the Union Steamship Company, were clearly shown, liy bringing within its folds the engineers of the adjacent colonies, the institution had been the means of supply ing a long-felt want which was exemplified by the manner in which the settlement of the long vexed question in New Zealand had been secured. —"Syduey Morning Herald "

At the monthly meeting of tho Hauraki Pumping Association, the sub-committee appointed to make an investigation into certain charges brought against the mana ger by the engineer in charge, reported the result of their enquiries. The committee, "afrer careful enquiries, aud a personal inspection of the levels, pumps, and lifts, by Mr Kouald|Macdonald, are satisfied that everything is now working smoothly and satisfactorily, and with strict economy. They have, however, to report that on the dates mentioned in Mr Ueighway's last report a serious irregularity occurred in the action of the pumps, which warranted the fullest investigation. The circum stances connected with such irregularity were found upon enquiry to be substantially the same as reported to you in Mr Heigh way's letter of complaint, with the excep tion of that part referring to the consump tion of coals, which your committee carefully refrained from entering into. 'I he evidence adduced before your committee left no doubt upon their minds that the pumps had been tampered with about the dates mentioned, but every effort to discover the culpable individual failed. There is no doubt, however, upon the minds of your com mittee that the interests of the Association would be conserved by such alteration in the management as would leavo the pit man under the sole control of, and answer able to, the eugineer in charge. The latter should also have full control over and be responsible for the em'ciency of the men connected with the machinery ia every capacity. The committee have the highest opiniou of the competency and integrity of the engiueer iv charge of tho works, and 1 e gret that he has not also the complete con trol of those who should be called upon to act under his directions in the inspection of the underground por tions of the pump. If this had been the case your committee believe that the cause of the irregularity complained of would have been discovered earlier and more active steps taken to remedy the same when it was discovered. On the other hand your com mittee have the fullest coulidence in the ability and efficiency of Mr Corner, and do not consider that any blame attaches to him."

EXTENSIVE FIRE AT EPSOM. ♦ A MOST destructive fire happened at an \ oarly hour this mc-rning at the rtssidoncfo of J' Mr John Hancock, about 100 yards from the' Junction Hotel, Epsom. It appears that only Mrs Hancock, the servant, and tho baby, were in the house at the time. At about half-past two this morniug Mrs Han cock had occasion to eet up to attend the baby, and proceeded to light the kerosine lam]). The lamp appears to have been burning for a short time when, by some unaccountable accident, Mrs Hancock upset it, and the blaze was in instant contact with the bed curtains. Mrs Hancock becamo excited, the blaze being so great, that sho found it impossible to ex tinguish it, and ran with her baby and cried for help. There was a servant man abaut the premises, but before assistance could be placed the whole buiding was one mass of lire. UntoHuuately Mr Han cock was away at the hot springs The house was a very fine substantial One, 'containing over ten rooms and wan most superbly furnished. Mr Hancock had only shortly arrived from England, having purchased many beautiful furnishing pooils. The insurance will not by any possible means cover the great loas. The New Zealand Insurance Ollice holds a policy upon the building for £700, and furniture £700. This is as far as we know the only amounts upon tho place. Absolutely nothing was fayed. Tho ouly thing that was pulled out was a table. The contents of every room was destroyed, in cluding all the clothes belonging to Mr and Mis Hancock, and tho servant. Mrs Hancock had to proceed to a friend's house close by to procn.ro some clothes for herself and child. It ia needless to say that Mrs Hancock has received a most severe shook to her system, and was taken home by her mother this morning. Tho hundreds of things belonging to the house can never bo replaced by any insurance, so that tho loss in very great indeed.

HARBOUR BOARD.

Tub ordinary fortnightly meeting of the Harbour Board was held this afternoon, I'rcfiout:—Messrs Compton (in the chair), Wuddell, Aiclcin, Isaacs, Thompson, lioy- Inn, Daldy, Morrin, Stone, McKoii/.ic, (Jlurlc.

STAND PlPK.—The Chief Harbour Mas ter wrote suggesting that the City authori ties be requested to erect a standpipe lor tho use ot workmen at tho Dock.—Agrcod that tho application be made as requested. Notice to MAiaNniu.-Tiic following notice to mariners was received from tho Marine Department:—" Notico is hereby given thut on and after the lirst day of May uoxt, the pilot service atprosont established at the imtranco to the Rangitikei River will be discontinued, and the bar and danger signals will no longer be shown from the signal station.—Agreed that the necessary publicity be given to the notice. Adelaide Makink Board.—A copy of a report by the President of the Adelaide Marino Hoard was received and laid on the table. —It was resolved that the report bo acknowledged.

IiIIECTION OK Skids.—A letter was re ceived from Mr W. 11. Hales, District Engineer, stating that when tho Railway is opened through to Helleusvillc, it is pro bable that junk timber will bo brought down, and suggesting that a strong lauding stago mid skids should be erected on tho north-eastern end of tho stone breakwater as a means of delivering them oil' the trucks into the Auckland harbour.—Rofeired to the Works Committee,

Kuicxuro Light.—Messrs Oppenhcimer and Co. wrote forwarding a price list of tho Brush Electric Lights, They stated that all tho English dockyards wero now lighted by means of electric light. The same linn also submitted circulars and price lints of tlio Gower-Mell-lond-speaking telephone- Referred to the Works Committee.

SxiiEETd on Kkci.ama.tion.—Loiter from tho Town Clerk enclosing a copy of letter forwarded to the Colonial Secretary on ttie 11 th ult., containing resolution of City Council re the settlement of tho matters as to tho maintenance, &c, &c., of Htreet.s on on the reclamation. — Ordered to bo laid on the table.

Repairing Streets.—Mr I). E. Mc- Donald, Engineer to tho lioard, reported iv accordance with instructions issued last week that tiie estimated eo.»t of placing those portions of the streets west of (jueeu street wharf proclaimed as landing places in repair for traflie during the winter months would be £-lf>.

Works Committee Rkpout. — Tiio repoitof this Coiiimittco recommended:— Damage to Buoy—That a claim for £5 be made against the Union Cornpjitiy as cost of replacing the buoy carried away by the Kutorua. Lease of Foreshore ut Takapuna —That if Mr Green can arrange to obtain tlie consent of the surrounding landowners to relinquish all claims for riparian rights, the Board is prepared to oiler tho lease of the hind by auction for the purpose required. That permission be given to iho Parnell Borough Council to continue a drain from Selwyn Torraco t irouuh the Union Sash and Door Company's property. Discharging into Mechanics' Bay—That Mr Hilditcb be allowed to occupy the bath site at n, rental of -Is per week till October 30th, ISSI.— The clause regarding permijsion to carry a drain from Selwyn Terrace wa* negatived, —The remainder of the report wasadop.ed.

Salary ok Engineer,—Mr Mays is to move "That in terms of by-law No. 30 tho by laws be now suspended to enable the follow ing motion to be made :—' That the salary of the Engineer to thn Board be increased to £450 on condition that be devotes his whole time to the work of the Board, the increase to date from Ist January last.' "

Duties of Committebs.— Mr Aickin is to move " That it shall not be competent for any committee to take up questions that have not been relegated to it by the Board unless such may have been declared urgent, the urgency of the question to be decided by the chairman aud the members of the Boird."

Maintenance of Reclamation Streets. - Mr J. M. Clark moved the fol lowing motion, of which notice had been given : "That the Hoard concurs in the appointment by tbe Government of an arbitrator under clause 230 of the Muni cipal Corporation Act, 1370, to settle the matter referred to in tho resolution of the Council of the Borough of Auckland, dated March 10th, 1881, re streets on certain lands reclaimed by the Harbour Board."

Left sitting.)

THEATRE ROYAL.

" MARITANA."

"Maritana" holds an unchallenged pre eminence in English opera, and its popularity is as widely diffused .is is the Anglo-Saxon touguc itself. The music is familiar "aa household words," and indeed the principal airs which it contains have become hackneyed through con stant repetition by amateur vocalists. It is a most melodious opera, and he who fails to bo charmed by it when well rendered must be exceedingly enptious and hard to please. Genuine success in its representation should meet with great acceptance at the hands of the public, and even a mediocre performance will bo pat ronised. It was played last night to an ex cellent and indulgent house, and with the exception of one part was played well. That exception was Signor Bianchi's Don Catgnr. To put it mildly it was a strong tOle spoilt. In the first act he appoared to great dis advantage, his portraiture of the dissolute but still chivalrous Don partaking more of the character of an imbecile yokel than of i a Spanish grandee, impecunious and intoxi cated it is true, but still retaining the bearing aud somewhat of the mien of a cavalier. Signor liiauchi's singing in the first act was no less unfortunate. The rendering of the fine finale " Farewell my Gallant Captain" was simply execrable, while in the second act the pathetic song, '' Let mo Like a Soldier Fall," was not given with half its natural verve and effect. His part in the trio, " Turn on Old Time," was more pleas ingly executed, while tho beautiful ballad " There is a Flower that Bloometh " was even happily sung. In fact his acting aud sinking both underwent a noticeable improvement iv the third act. His part in the tender duet "Oh Maritana'' was well sustained. The gentleman evidently takes more kindly to sentiment than to comedy, but at any rate he is a very indifferent Don Ctusar. \Vc pass with pleasure to a review of the other leading roles. MadamoSimonsen's Maritana and bignoi Iticcardi's Don Jose were both impersonations of much excel lence, and tho delightful music which falls to their lot was very effectively rendered. The lady, immediately after her entrance upon the stage, secured the approbation of the audience for her rendering o£ the song, "It was a Knight of Princely Mien," and her singing ot the air to which it is the prelude, viz., " 'Tis the Harp in the Air," deepened the favourable impression which the former had produced. She saug admir ably iv the concerted passages, took her part iv the sweet duet " Sainted Mother" with signal effect, and gave the well known ballad " Scenes that arc Brightest" iv a style and with a depth of

feeliDg that brought down the house. Tho ballad was encored. Signor Hiccardi's Don Jose is, 6u6 of his stage successes. He looked the part and sang the music of it carefully and well. Tho ballad, "In Happy Moments," was enthusiastically encored, while the spirited bravura, "Now my Courage," received full justice from his fine, resonant voice. Miss Godfrey made a charming Lazarillo, and sho sang success fully, her execution of the sons " Alas 1 Those Chimes" being marked by an em phatic recall. In the duet, "Sainted Mother," she also took her part with ability. Mr St. Clair enacted therOle of the King of Spain better than he sang the incidental music, although even his performance of that was not by any means unsuccessful. Miss Frances Simonscn's Marchioness and Mr Wentworth's Marquis were both very fair of their kind. The choruses were ineffective, but the instru mentation as usual atoned for a multitude of vocal shortcomings. Verdi's grand work "II Trovatore" will be produced this evening.

SCINTILLATIONS.

"Bo brief; for It ia with words as with Bun boams : tho moro tlioy are condensed the deeper thuy burn."—Southkv.

The Trade and Labour Council, Sydney, has paid £225 to support tho curriers on strike for 8 hours work.

The Cambridge Wesleyan Church choir had a pleasant picnic on Mr A. A. Fantham's grounds on Good Friday.

The Marquis of Hertford regularly with draws from hia Irish estates £50,000, to be spent abroad; hia name stauuiug distin guished on the great roll of absentees whoso doles aru trilling (if any at all) to tho neulccted people struggling for a decent livelihood on their estates.

The bath-keepor's roiidenco at the City liatlis was liuishod ready for occupation to day, and other improvements in the lailicn dressing rooms, &c, will be completed next Wrl'k.

Melbourne haft been well supplied with English lish, including salmon, turhot, solus and fresh haddock, brought out in the refrigerating chamber of tho steamer Lusilauin.

Out of over £35,000 for Property Tax collectable iv Auckland all but £'100 has been paid already. The lirst contract for drainage works on Maclean and Co.'h estate, Waitoa, has been let to Mr It. Montague. A £5000 contract ia to follow.

Colonel Trimble's constituents awarded him a vote of confidence on Tuesday night.

Tiiuaru has shipped 200,000 bushels of grain during tho last four weeks. More tondera ure out for the Whangarci- Kawakawa road, and also the road through Victoria Valley.

The whaling barque Janus, which was wrecked at Awanni, on the 20th ult., is now fast breaking up.

Tho hair of the red-headed girl in trans muted to auburn or golden when she becomes a young lady ; tho red-headed boy remains red-headed as long ai lie lives.

Mr Luacombe Scarell h»H budded as n poet. Ho has \vritten "A Madman's Story," and dedicated it to Alice Lin gard.

Tho Government have sent Messrs Parris and other interpreters to sound tho Maori prisoners as to their intentions before rcleus. ing them.

Sir W. Fox has published advertisement warning persons against negotiating for native landn on Wuimale Plains.

Victorian clergymen are beginning to agitate for the repeal of the local law which excludes them from Parliament.

There are 8,000 Good Templars iv New South Wales.

A magistrate! at Hallarat has been com mitted for tiial for bigamy.

The "Thames Advertiser " says:—"We learn with pleasure that Government arc about to recognise the long and faithful services of Mr Brookfield, Crown Prosecutor, by elevating him to a Native Land Court Judgcship. No gentleman is more deserv iug of the honour than Mr lirookfield."

Mr K. Lathrope says ho wants to go hack to London to escape the dreadful risk ot starvation in thin colony. Though unable to iind a single instance! of death from such a cause in Now Zealand, through tho press being banded together to suppress publica tion, he will experience nonuch difficulty in London, On one page of the London des patch of January 30th appear accounts of four deaths from otarvation.

LATER SAMOAN NEWS.

PROGRESS OK THE WAR

We have iites of tho Samoan "Times," to March sth, from which we cull the following :—

" On Sunday last a skirmish took place between the occupants of some taumualuas oil' I'aleula, resulting in the death of one man and the wounding ot three others, all belonging to the Old Party. It would ap pear thut during last week the commanders of tho German guv-boats now lying in SiUuafata harbour sent an invitation to Aana asking Maasua and Mamea to come aud vi*it them. Why Captains Chuden aud Yon Gloedcu should desire to have the company of two of the leading men of tho Old Party we are at a loss to know, but the fact remains, that Maasua anil Mamea, in response to the invitation sent them, lett Aana for Atua on Sunday morning last by sea, accom panied by several boats and tuumualuaß. When the Tuanuisaga people in tho fort at Falcula observed the fleet approaching from the westward preparations were made for intercepting it. This having been done an engagement ensued which resulted iv the boats of the Old Party being aeparated, one portion of them making oil towards Aaua, pursued by Malictoa's people, while two taumualuas with Maasua aud Mamea managed to make good their escape and reached Atua safely. The casualties in the engagement were as stated above. The action of Captains Chuden and Yon Gloedea having occasioned a good deal of comment in town. We under stand it has been urged in their defence that the invitation issued to Mausua and Mamea had no political significance. This statement is, however, too plausible, for while it ia quite possible the com manders of the German war-vessels saw no such significance in their procedure, tho natives will interpret tho courtesy shown to two members of the Old Party as a token of interest aud sympathy with that patty. At the risk of being guilty of iteration wo must repeat that we think it must bo regretted that the Old Party should receivo any recognition from foreign ers either open or covert. Support what ever shape it may assume, tendered to the party now in opposition to the properly con stituted authority of Mahetoa,can only pro long the present unhappy condition of these islands, which but for these hateful party differences, might well be a paradise both for natives and foreigners.

DISTURBANCE ON SA.VAII.-TWO

MEN KILLED.

On Thursday wo learned from a trader who had just arrived from Savaii, that on Sunday last several men of the King Party from Safotu, who had taken advantage of the cessation of hostilities to visit their relations at Sufune, were set upon by some of the peoplo of that town and severely handled, two being killed and two made prisoners. This truly was most scurvy treatment, oomiug so soon aftor the clemency extended by Malietoa to the Itu-o-tane. The Vice-King would have shown better judgment if he bad detained the chiefs taken at Lano until their people gave full evidence of their intention citluir to remain neutral or to give him their support. This affair at Safune may lead to a general collision of parties on Savaii; aud it is to bo regretted that an occurrence of this nature should have taken place just when there was a prospect of that island remaining neutral in the present native struggle. On this island both parties maintain a "masterly inactivity."

SHOOTING ACCIDENT.

A young man —a Swiss —who is at present in charge of Mr T. Meredith's trading station at Leone, having been annoyed by tbe conduct ot a West Indian negro, who, with a number of natives was seated in the vicinity of the store, desired the party to disperse. As they failed to do bo the Swiss called out to an assistant to give him 11 pistol which was in the storo, aud which he believed was not loaded. The pistol having been brought, the Swiss presented it at the negro, when, to the consternation of all present, the pistol exploded. It was presently found that the negro had been shot in the forehead, but that, thanks to the proverbial thickness of tho "nigger" cranium, the ball had not penetrated the bone, but after striking had pursued a course under the skin and was found lodged in the fleshy part of the back of the neck, The wounded man was promptly attended to, and it is not believed that any permanent injuries will result trom the accident.

SUDDEN DEATH.

Mr C. De Vero died suddenly after boiug treated by the natives by the sulphur pro cess for riugworm. It is supposed that the sulphur fumes were the cause.

CABLEGRAMS.

[Reuters Telegrams.]

TRICKETT GAINS A VICTORY,

LONDON, April 19. A SCULLING race took place to-day at Southampton, between Edward Trickett and an oarsman named Kirby. The con test resulted in an easy victory for Trickett. REGRET AT LORD BKACONSFIELD'S

DEATH.

LONDON, April 19.

The death ot Earl Beaconsfiekl is deeply deplored by all political parties, and has created a profound sensation throughout Europe. It is oflicially announced to-day that Her Majesty the Queen has expressed great grief at the loss of her most valued :md devoted friend and counselled the late Earl.

Lords Cairns and Salisbury are the rival candidates for the leadership of the Oppo sition rendered vacant by the death of Lord Bcaconslield. It is rumoured that Lord Salisbury's chances have been endangered by the secret pledges given M. Wadding ton, French Minister for Foreign Affairs, with regard to the Tunis diiliculty, which it is thought may possibly compromise England. A SPIRITIST IN TIiOUBLE. The Spiritist medium Fletcher was sen tenced to a year's imprisonment for imposi tion. INFLUX OF CHINESE.

SYDNEY, Thursday

Two hundred Chinese arrived yesterday by the steamer iiusadere from Hong Kong.

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

[UY THE S.S. TARARDA.]

A THOUSAND SOVEREIGNS MISSING.

TIIBKH iH no doubt now (saya the " A«e ") that tho thousand sovereigns missed by i Ire paying teller of tho Commercial Hank have been stolcu, livery inquiry has been made by the managers, Mr Turner and Mr M'Cutchcon, und the accounts have been thoroughly gone into, with the result that the loss haa proved to ue a robbery. The circumstances under which tho theft has been committed are mysterious. The pay ing teller of the bank Mr J. W. Napier, believes the sovereigns to have been stolen on Friday night, but lie only reported the matter on Monday. On the day in question (Friday) Mr Napier made up his cash balance alter tho doors were closed, and found a few pounds Hhort. He set to work then to discover the discrepancy, but was not able to do so up to tea-time. He left to get his tea, and returned iv a bhort interval. About lulf-past 9 p.m. tho mis take was discovered, and Mr Napier left the bank, believing his cash to bo correct. That day Mr Napier had live bag* con taining 1000 sovereigns each, besides other coin and notes. Of this particular sum, one bat; bad been paid out, As tar as Mr Nupicr'H memory of the matter goes, when making up his cash he had one bag in the tray of the gold scales under his counter. When leaving his office for tea he placed the balance of the cash in the strong-room, but cannot remember if he re moved tho bug with tho 1,000 sovereigns in it. Ho left the room unlocked, and when he returned did not think of the matter. During the evening there were several clerks of the bank iv and out ct the pre mises, besides messengers and caretakers. Un Saturday Mr Napier made up his ac counts again, and counted his cash, when he found £1000 short. On Monday he re ported the circumstance, and since then every inquiry has been made, in the hope of discovering what was supposed to be a discrepancy, but without avail. Tho in quiries made have also shown that sovereigns were stolen and no notes. The matter has been placed in the hands of the detective?.

THE PRESENTATION TO LAYCOCK. Mr LAYCOCK, in thanking the committee for the gift presented to him, said the handsome present which he had now received would serve to remind him of his trij> to Old England, and of his luck there as a rower. When he left Australia he did not expect to be so successful as he had been, and he was sorry he had not won the great race he rowed iti, for he would rather have wou that race for the.honour of Aus tralia than have had £3,000 or £4,000 pre sented to him, coupled with the condition of losing it. Ho called for three cheers for Edward Triekett, which was responded to, and were followed by three cheers for Lay cock himself. AN ALBURY TRAGEDY. Henrj' Wilkinson was charged before Sir James Martin. C.J., at the Circuit Court, Albany, witn having murdered Mary i'uinpa, at Lyater's Gap, near Jindera, on December 7th. The depositions of Mary Pumpa, taken just after she was shot by the prisoner, were put in. Therein it was stutcd that Wilkinson came to her stop father's (Murtin Mentz) place about three o'clock in the morning of the 7th of Decem ber, and after takinir a few shillings from her, fired two shots at her, both oi which took effect—one in herluns;s,aud one in her head. Prisoner then went into her father's room, where immediately after she heard two more shots. She managed to slip out of the house in an almost nude conditiou, bleeding from her wounds, aud very faint, but was able to reach a neighbour's house. Mentz's house was noticed by the neigh bours to be on fire, and before they could reach the place Mentz's body had been burnt to cinders. Mary Pumpa died a week later, but to the last was positive in her identitication of the prisoner. On a post-mortem examination being made, two bullets were found in her body. Two bullets were also found embedded in tbe skull of Meutz. Wilkinson was arrested the same day at the Mill Hotel, Jindera. The landlord deposed that on the day preceding the murder tbe prisoner remained at his house until 10 o'clock at night, when he left with his swag, and announced his iu tention of travelling towards Brookong, which was in the opposite direction to Mentz's place. On leaving the hotel he started towards Brookong, but ten minutes later the landlord saw a man without a swaggoi.ngtowards Mentz's place. He could not identify him in the dusk >f evening; but next morning, on opening his house at 5 o'clock, he saw the prisoner coming from the direction of Mentz's place. He was without his swag, and said ho had lost it. The landlord searched and found it some distance from thehotel, on the road to Brookong. When the prisonerwas arrested a revolver was found on him, two cham bers of wbich were loaded and four recently discharged. The bullets remaining in the chambers corresponded with those dis covered in the two bodies. Mr F. Brown, of Beechwortb, was assigned for the prisoner's defcucc, but could find no legal loophole by which he could extricate the prisoner from the result of such positive testimony and over-whelming proof of his guilty. The jury were not very long iv arriving at a verdict of guilty, and his Honor, after asking the usual question, sentenced him to death. Wilkinson asenied indifferent as to the result of the trial, and was defiant, in tone and manner when aßked why sentence ot death|should not be passed. He even abused Mr Brown, his council, and said everything was •" cut and dried " to convict him, but he was quite ready to meet his death on the gallows. Injpassing sontence of death the Judge said)—"lt is impossible to concoive what could have been your motive for the com mission of this atrocious crime. Not con tent with taking the few shillings this poor woman had, you deliberately give her two mortal wounds, and then proceed to her fathct's room aud murder him also. You then set fr.o to his house and walk away and call for liquor, as coolly and unconcerned as if pursuing your ordinary avocations."

SPORTING INTELLIGENCE.

SYDNEY GOLD CUP.

(RKTJTEIt'S CABIiKGKA.M.)

SYDNEY, April 20.

Tho race for tho Sydney Gold Cup and GOOsovs, with a sweepstake of 20sovs, dis tance two milos, was run to-day. Sixteen horses started. The raca was won by Branch's Progress, Sst 21bs 1 Strathern, 7st 21bs 2 Wandering Jew, 6st 4lbs 3 Progress won easily by 4 lengths in front of Strathern, who also made his way rapidly ! through the horses at the finish. Wander ing Jew made a good third half a length behind Strathern, but only beating Rich mond at the winning post by a head. Wellington finished closely, and finished a good fifth at the Jew's girth, with Braid wood The Pontiff, Gunlid, Hesperian, Major, and Templar, close behind. Time, 3miia 36-18scc.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATES' COURT.-This day.

(Before R. C. Barstow, Esq., K.M.) JUDGMENTS FOR PLAINTIFFS.

Stephen E. Hughes v. Joseph Merritt. — Claim, £24 6s, balance of promisiory note.— Mr George for plaintiff.—Costs, £4 10a. Ed. Lewis v. Maurice Kelly, jun.—Claim, £6 138 sd, goods sold and delivered.—Mr Theo. Cooper for plaintiff.—Costs, £2 14s. John Ca'rey v. Geo. Lewell.—Claim, £3 9s 6d, I.O.U.—Mr Ainistrong for plaintiff. —Costs, £1 9s 6d. Jonn Carey v. Geo. Lewell.—Claim, £2, board and residence.—Mr Armstrong for plaintiff; Branston and Foster v. Brumblo and Pur cell.—Claim, £16 10s 6d, goods sold and de livered.—Mr Thome for plaintiff.-^Costs, £3 Bs.

John Savory v. John McAneany.— Claim, £6 sa.—Mr Thome for plaintiff.— Costs, £112a. Malcolm Murchie v. E. F. Buckworth— Claim, £12, balitnce of account.—Mr Hughes for plaintiff.—Costs, £2 Is. Paul and Schenk s\ Andrew Stephens.— Claim, £1 Is Gil, goods.—Mr Alexander for plaintiff,—Coats, 17s 6d. F. H. Lewissou v. K. F. Buckworth.— £48 12s, dishonoured promissory note.—Mr Theo. Cooper for ])laintifl'. —Costs, £4 14s. Sarah Philips v. William Seager.—Claim, 6s sd.—Mr Keetley for plaintill'.—Costs, £1 2a Gd. JUDGMENTS SUMMONSES. Kichard Laishley v. Elias Jackman.— Claim, £15 6'a lOd. —Mr Laiahley said the cuse was previously before Mr Mac douald. The judgment debtor who lived in Christchutch, put in a plea of inability to attend on the grouud of poverty. Mr Macdonald would not make an order before the defendant was examined as to his means, and he therefore said that it would be necessary for him (Mr Laishley) to pay the man's passage to Auckland. He had considered the matter, and had decided not to do so. He now put in a report from a private detective regarding the debtor's means.—His Worship said aa the debtor had not made any explanation on the subject, and had not admitted the debt, he would therefore make an order for the pay ment of the amount in weekly instalments of £1 each; or, iv default, two months' im prisonment at Christchurch. Wm. O'Brien nud Thomas Glenn v. Arthur Wilson.—Claim, £6,ss.—Mr Burton for plaintiff.—urdcred to pay 30s a month, or in default four weeks' imprisonment. William Souter v. Charles Kobinson. — Claim, £4 ss.—Mr Thome for judgment creditor.—Ordered to pay £2 per month. Holland and Butler v. Francis Dyer.— The debtor promised to pay £3 on 6th May, and the balance ouMay 20th.—Order made accordingly. Daniel Murray v. John Mullally.—The debtor did not appear, and an order was made for the paymeut of 265, and 5s and costs on 5 th May. ADJUUItNEI) OASES. William Kelly v. James Dilwortb.— Mr Tyler said this case had already been adjourned pending the arrival of evidence from Hawera. It had not yet arrived, and the parties were willing to allow the case to stand over till May 19th.— Adjournment granted accordingly. Mayor and Others v. George 0. Kevin.— Mr S. Hesketh said this case would very probably occupy a considerable time in hearing, and as the list was already lilleri, he would ask that it be adjourned till the 29th, for a specii'l eittiug,—Application granted. James Deinpsey v. Thomas Doyle-—Mr Theo. Cooper appeared for plaintill', and asked for a remand till next Court day, as there was a chance of it being settled. Kdwin Binney v. Henry Elliott.—Ad journed till next Court day by mutual consent. Thomas Ellcy v. Richard Bandall.—Ad journed till next Court day on the applica tion of Mr Theo. Cooper. TAKING EVIDENCE. Gregory S. N orris v. James Bruce, claim £23 9s.— The defendant is a timber and llour merchant at Timaru, and the evidence of plaintiff was consequently taken by the Court.— Mr Norris deposed that he was captain and owner of the barque Glimpse in January, 18S0, and defendant was a consignee of. the cargo. An accident occurred to the vessel, and the cargo being damaged, he had an average bond prepared. Defendant signed it,—John Waymoutb, who had acted as adjuster, also gave evidence. THE "MUSE." W. J. Napier v. Callian, Peltzer, and Villeval. Mr Tole tor plaintiff and Mr S. Hesketh for defendants. Mr Tole briefly addressed the Court on this case, the par ticulars of which were fully stated in the Star of Saturday last, and intimated that he might have occasion to ask leave to call rebutting evidence which was always allowed. Mr flcsketh replied, and objected to any suchapplication. His Worship said that it was im possible for him to say what contingency may arise in the course of evidence; he might take an application for re-butting evidence, but could not say how he should treat it. Mr Hesketh having offered some re marks Mr Tole agreed to call further wit nesses. JSrnest Wm. Burton, solicitor, was sworn and recognized the two bills of sale over the property to which he was theattcsting witness. The bills were read over in their presence, and duly signed. MrPeltzctread them in the French language. He wrote to Mr Napier respecting the stoppage of the " New Zealand Muse," and that the parties were to call upon witness with reference to making some arrangement. Knew at the time that Mr Napier was a secured creditor; that was on the sth October.—To Mr Hesketh : Mr Peltzer instructed him on the same day. He said there had unfortunately been some disagreement among them selves, and consequently the "Muse" had stopped. Wrote to Mr Villeval to call, re " Muse," without stating why. It was for the purpose of making the best arrangements he could with Mr Villeval fur carrying on the news, if the property was taken over. The second bill of sale was £15; there was a discussion upon it.—Mr Tole objected to going outside the bill of sale.—His Worship thought it not necessary, unless it was intended to shew fraud.—Mr Hesketh said he did not wish to impute anything of the kind to Mr Napier, but for quite another purpose.— His Worship said the deed was either good or bad ; if bad, it can be set aside ; but if good, there it was and there was no getting over that fact.—Mr BurtoE.: The 'first bill of sale simply drawn by him. he wrote out the form oi demand there and then for Mr Napier, with the intention of seizing. No conversation on the advisa bility of such a step or the manner of seiz ing took place.—To Mr Tole : Mr Peltzer did speak about n, meeting of his creditors, but did not speak of his assets. Heard that M. Cailliau refused +o contribute musical i matter to the "Muse," and that Messrs; . Cailliau and Peltzer were not courors. He used to put the music under the door rather than communicate together.—His Worship: He did not put it between the bars ?—Witness : No, your Worship ; both being Frenchmen, and likely to fire up, it was considered best not to meet.—This was plaintiff's caee. The Court then adjourned until 2 o'clock.

GILLIES' INDUSTRIAL EXHIBITION.

This creditable exhibition, comprising the handiwork of the proprietor, Mr George Gillies, was visited yesterday, and again this morning by a number of engineers and artists, who were struck with the evidences of ingenuity and skill of the modest but clever oxhibitor, whose courtesy aud un assuming address to visitors are in keeping with genuine talent. The Albert Hall is gracefully adorned with Mr Gillies' mot toes, viz., perseverance, ingenuity, taste, and skill, while in the middle appears, " Our strength is iv God," and on the oppo site wall, " Nothing without Industry." Several musical-boxes are iv the room, and in the evening an exhibition of views is given illustrative ot town and country life. Several little curiosities, made by the owner, were like memories of Fatherland ; tbo bird-trap, for example, or " Look Before you Leap," representing the old boyish winter-trap with the scattered suow upon the red bricks, thoroughly characteristic of au English winter at Christmas time. The symbols of industry were suggestive of summer time. The skates of the past and present were noticed by young ladies who had practised on the boards of Choral Hall, exhibiting a striking difference between those of Mdlle. LiiSalli? of the English lake, and Miss JKoaabolla Sunnyeye, of the colony. The representa tives of the Scottish clans, with the Marquis of Lome and his royal bride iv the centre, attracted attention; also, the musical Swiss cottage, near the birth place of the immortal William Tell. Among the curiosities were Astley's Amphitheatre, and, in action, sundry feats of horsemanship, as performed at that well known theatre in its balmy days of Durrow. The ballet girl is another town character", but Maggie, the Howick lass, churning butter, is a life-picture from that peaceful settlement—where grass and rustic beauty glow, and fields are never clad in suow • but in the hedges all day long, the birds unite in Nature's song,

POLICE COURT.-This day.

(Before Messrs Cosgrave and Prime; Justices of the Peace.) Shadows of night. James Murphy and Philip Brennan Carot were fined 5s each for drunkenness. PUGILISTIC. llobert Leaiy and Sam Sykcs were, charged under the Vagrant Act with fight ing in a public street. The prisoners pleaded guilty. Mr Parcly stated that the battle too place last night in Queen-street at 8 o'clock The prisoners were vigorously fighting un til the appearance of the constable. The prisoners were fined £10 or a term of imprisonment. THE MISSING CALICO, Maria Grey was charged with the larceny of about 17 yards of calico, value 30s, the property of John Grace, on the 19th in&t. Prisoner pleaded not guilty. Mr Pardy stated the case. The prisoner was a married woman, and her husband was a hard-working man. She had been in trouble before, and, as there was another charge pending against the prisoner, he would ask for a rcn.and. Kemanded until Monday next, PETTY THEFT. John M. Angus was charged with stealing a piece of timber, value Is, the property of John White, on the 20th iust. Prisoner pleaded guilty. Mr White was continually subjected to petty larcenies, but was not willing to press the charge severely against the prisoner, who said that he merely picked up a few dry sticks for kitchen purposes. As this was pijUoncr's first offenco, he was discharged with a caution. THE PUBSE. Mary Gathercole again appeared in answer to a charge of stealing a purse, and ear-rings, on the 19th inst., the property of Emily Austin. Prisoner pleaded guilty. Mr Pardy said the young woman was unknown to the police ; and her parents, he understood, were respectable people, at Mahurangi. She had a sister in the suburbs, of good character and respectably situated. If the Bench would consent to a remand, he should have an opportunity of communicating with her friends. The Bench thought it would be a pity to send the young girl to prison, if such a degradation could be avoided. Kemanded for a week. BILLIARD BALLS. William Allen and William Turner were charged with stealing a pool banket and 16 billiard-balls, value £8, the property of William Uamley, of the Auckland Hotel, on the 18th iust. Turner was also charged with stealing a blanket and axe, 7s 6d, the property of some person unknown. In the case of Allen, as his solicitor, Mr Tole, could not be in attendance, it was remanded until to-morrow, and prisoner was admitted to bail in his own recogni zance of £20 to appear. Turner, who it is supposed is the real Simon Pure, was remanded for a week, as he cold the balls, &c, to Allen, and as the blanket, axe, and other things found in his possession were considered to have been stolen, and for which owners are wanted, This was all the business.

THE SPIRITIST HUMBUG.

IN our cablegrams to-day is announced the sentence of a spiritist named Fletcher, to a year's imprisonment, for frauds on one of the faithful named Hart-Davies, a woman 38 years old. The charge against Fletcher was that he did unlawfully obtain, in the month of September, 1879, a quantity of jewellery and other property, by means of false pretences, with intent to defraud Mrs Juliet Anne Theodore Heurtley Hart- Davies.

The case was heard at Bow-street Police Court before Mr Flowers. The evidence showed great credulity on the part of the complainant, who, even when in the witness-box confessed to her belief that she had communications with her mother. She was a lady of means who had travelled a great deal, and had been " investigating" in England, France, and America. It was in the course of these investigations that she became acquainted with Mr And Mrs Fletcher, noted mediums, with whom she travelled. " investigating " both in England and America, and through whose medium, ship a number of marvellous thiDgs about herself and her affairs were supposed to have been communicated. By one pretence and another the Fletchers managed to obtain from their dupe some hundreds of pounds worth of jewellery, clothiDg, and_ other property, which they refused to give up. At last the investigation began to " modify ' her views about spiritualism, and on con sulting a friend, |tne latter undertook the oflice of making the Fletchers disgorge. They got frightened, and gave up some of the things to " prevent a row," but said the plaintiff had given them other1". The affair finally got into the hands of the polico, resulting in an expose1, which ha 3 excited great interest in England. The case lasted a considerable time, the defendant being defended by Mr Lewis, the celebrated London criminal counsel. His advocacy, however, has failed to save his client from gaol. The following selection from the evi dence, published in the "London Despatch," shows how spiritist "phenomena" are manufactured :—

Mr James Maddocks, 27, Elliott's-row, St. George's Koad, Sonthwark, said—l am a house decorator. I know the defendant and her husband, and became acquainted with Mr Fletcher about three years ago at my brother-in-law's, Mr Poole's, West square, Lambeth. My brother-in-law was investigating spiritualism, and Fletcher attended as a paid medium, and I believe was paid 30a. I attended some seances as a spectator. In that way I became acquainted, with Fletcher, and became very intimate with him and the defendant. The seances were what are called clairvoyance, and Fletcher apparently went into a trance. There were two spirits, one called "Fidelity" and the other "Winona." " Fidelity" came first, and delivered a sort ot sermon of a religious character, which lasted half an hour. Then Mr Fletcher went throueh a few " spasmodic jerks," and then " Winona " came. Mr Wontner—What did " Winona" dot —Witness—She was a lady spirit, and admired the jewellery Mrs Poole's younger sister was wearing. Did you see Fidelity " and " Winona ? Oh no. The spirits seemed to have entered Mr Fletcher, and he spoke. "Fidelity" said "good-night" before going. Fletcher told us which spirit was controlling him. When did you first become acquainted with Mrs Fletcher ?—About six months after. Mis Fletcher was giving my ' brother-in-law a private seance in one room, while Mr Fletcher was engaged with another member of my family in another room, with a spirit called " Dewdrop." The Fletchers were living at that time at 4, Bloomsbury-place. i went there for the rehearsal of a sdance. He told me that the mediums were giving extraordinary physical stances, and that he would do the I same, or he should lose some of his friends. He said several people were coming, in cluding titled people, and that they would believe anything (Laughter.) Witness then described the stance, and added—l walked about with a bottle of phosphorus, and made the lights show in different parts of the room. Mrs Fletcher made some with tho phosphorus off the matches on her fingers. This was how the matches fell upon tho floor. The people said the lights and everything produced were marvellous. The performance lasted about an hour and a half. When tho people had gone, Mr and Mrs Fletcher asked me what I thought of them, and I said I had no idea people could be such fools as to believe it all. I asked them what they thought of the way I wound the box up, and all that, and they Fcemod perfectly satisfied, Mr Fletcher said that one of the gentlemen pre sent was connected with an American paper, and he was glad it had all gone off so well, as he would write a glowing account of it. Mrs Fletcher asked what I thought of her production of the spirit voice, and I said I thought it was very good. At the finish Mr Fletcher asked me not to tell Mr Poole about it, and told me he would write when he wanted me again. Did a second seance take place ?—Yes, on the 27th February, I believe. At that sdauce there was a Miss Cooke, a profes sional medium. I theu sat between Miss Cooks and Mrs Fletcher, Mr Fletcher sit ting next to Miss Cooke ou the other side. The lights were put out, and Miss Cooke got up and went to the other end of the room. She put something white over her head, aud held up a bottle of phosphorous so that the people could see her. They believed it was her spirit guide. The sdanco was almost a repetition of the former one. A few " spirit" flowers had been bought by Mr Fletcher for two-pence in the Tottenham Court-road, and these were thrown on the table.

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR THURSDAY, APRIL 21.



Special Advertisements. m W. H I C X S O U, LICENSED SURVEYOR AND LAND BROKER, UNDEB LAND TBANBFUB AOT, South British Chambers, Auckland. CO 0 1) L I JN ' S TIMETABLE: Leaves Onehnnga— Leaves Auckland -B.3oa.ffi ,J? noon 2.30 P.m. I i-SO P.m. Saturday nights— 6.30 p.m. I Hp.m. SPfIOIAL GOAOHEa AS PER AOBBEMENTi



Special Advertisements. T> A N X HOLIDAY. The Banks will be CLOSED on SATUR DAY, 23rd inßtant (St. Goorgo'sDay). rjpHE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. Auckland Branch. THK Supply a Single Gar- NEW ZKALAND ment at tho WnoIo riT.OTHINQ FACTORY sale Price. XHK ilavo Branch Kstab- NKW ZKALAND lishmonts in eyory CLOTHING FACTORY town in Now Zealand - Ara now displaying THK Variety of Stylos pro- NKW ZEALAND nouDced Unoquallod CLOTHINU FACTORY in tho Market; ""TZ/J™, ANn O^tition^flcdTFit i'UK Wear-rosisling Tweeds NKW ZKALAND in evoty variety of CLOTHING FACTORY_ Garmont. THK Daily increasing trade NKW ZKALAND proves tho excolloncc CLOTHING FACTORY of Manufacture. fate I'roduco and rtiaposo of NKW ZEALAND Thousands of Gar- CLOTHINU FACTORY monta Weekly. "^lWnd" BX" dSeUf°rCaßh CLOTHING FACTORY onl>- Aro thoreforo patron virWMAT AND iaOd by ThOUßnndß of CIJmUNQfgAOTOBY {^ crning THlii 18 tho l Jromier Ketab- NKW ZKALAND HahmontinlSowZea- CLOTHING FACTORY land. ■VToTSTIfiairBKAJNCR ADDKESS— .i^l QUEKN-BTKKKT, AUCKLAND. J. FITZSIMONS, Branch Managor. And at Albert-etroot, Thamoa. JUST KECEIVED AMERICAN LA.WN-SPKINKLERS, With Platod Armß. Also, LAWN EDGE-CUTTERS, Quito New B. POUTER & CO., Queen and High streets 4 UTUMN & WINT Ell FASHIONS. ON WEDNESDAY NEXT, Ai-BIL Gtii, MILNE & CIIOYCE Will make their THIRST OHOW OF J^OVELTIES IN MILLINERY, MANTLES, COSTUMES, AND NEW DRESB FABRICS, Adapted for the Coming Season CHEAPSIDE HOUSE, 222|ASD 221. QUEEN-STREET. A UTUMN AND "WINTER DRAPERY AND CLOTHING. RUSHBROOK AND BRIDGMAN Are now bringing forward their Stock of NEW GOODS FOR THE SBASON, ALL SELECTED WITH GREAT CARE AND WELL BOUGHT. Splendid Value in Blankets and Rugs Flannels, Shirtings, and all Plain Goods A Choice Lot of Now Dress Goods, Satin Cloth, Serge, Merino, Wincey, &c. Trimmings and Buttons Job Lines in Fancy Dress Goods, very cheap Ladies' Jackets and Ulsters Girls' and Maids' Ulttcrs Umbrellas, Hosiery, Ribbons, && A LARGE STOCK OF CLOTHING TO SELECT FROM OK ALL KINDS, FOR BOYS AND MEN. OVERCOATS, ULSTERS, & MACINTOSHES. Large Selection op COLONIAL AND IMPORTED TWEEDS. STRONG MATERIAL FOR BOYS' WEAR, SERGES, &C. 5% Discount (Is in the £) allowed off all CASH Purchases of 20a and Upwards. ■pUSHBROOK & T3RIDGMAN, [Opposite tho Army and Navy Hotel], Upper Qdekn-street, auckland.



i^ARLICK AND URANWELL, VX" COMPLETE HOUSE FURNISHERS CITY HALL ARCADE, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND. \ ( Garliok and Cranwkll's stock % contains a very extensive choice o si of Furniture, of ~\<J r English. Ameri ca gM can, Italian, and 1 q q Colonial manufac- OfSoO*' ture, and is sold at H-ti 55 «„ J-FURNITURE-i the lowest possible) ***A n price consistent Hg ScQ with durability fe^ G) and %°°& taste; *q w and they respect 's] J fully Invite an in «j spection of their Show Rooms from Q those about to fur ) Vnish. ■\ ( A Beautiful Lot of Drawing-room CARPKTS, jußt tljftf landed ex Oxford, cSh moßt fashionable •iJK^H 8 designs, and cer- GQjrjHWmk tainly very choice. !J£Hfl^a The "Worcester" SSSaSS I rARPffTq J Stair Carpet has a ShSzS° f CABPBTS 1 pile of horsehair, 2 a'Ss<l£a! and iB the most m^X^Q* durable Carpet 0 <j1 Q h ever made. Tapes- H mj, try Carpets from £M 2a lid. Handsome Borders for Car pets, Hearth Rugs J (.made to match. /"IARLICK & CR UNWELL keep a \JT Large Stock of Floor Cloths for Halls, Rooms and Offices. Linoleum, all widths, at p( ARLICK & CRANWELL keep a vJT Great Variety of Austrian Bentwood Furniture, and American Cane Chairs. Whole sale and Ketail. WK allow a DISCOUNT of FIVE PER Cent, on Furniture, Carpets, and Floor oloths, for Cash Payments. BEDDING, all sizes, of our own manu facture, kept ready for Delivery. FURNITURE, and all other Goods, delivered Free in Town, and Book Cata logues sent to intending Furnishers on ap plication. pi ARLICK & CRANWELL keep an V.T immense assortment of Ikon Bedsteads. FDRNISH YOUR HOUSE From the CITY HALL ARCADE, GARLICK & CRANWELL, Proprietors. CAIIINKTMAKBRB AND Upholstkrkhs. T¥jr INKSJ& IT All HAVE REMOVED FROM FORT-STRBET |TO TBEIBI NEW PREMISES, IN SHORTIiAND-STKEBT.



DH. McKENZIE • Begs to inform Ship Masters, Ship Owners, Ship Builders, and Shipping Agontß, that ho haa REMOVED his Ship Chandlery Business from Custom-house-stroet To His New Premises In FORT-STREET. D. H. M~c"i ENZ IE. Having determined to RETIRE from tho Snip Chandlery part of his Business, Will Soil his Largo Rtock AT GREATLY; RKDUCKD PRICES. Partle s Building or Ro-lltting would do wol to oall on him beforo buying olsowhoro. P U 11 J! BONK DUST JAMES SOPPET AND CO. Are supplying Fine Bonedust of their own mann facturo, guarautcod froo from any adulteration £8 10s por ton, sacks or bags includod, at tho Mills, Freeman's Bay, or their Store, No. 8 Lower Quoen-Btroot. Bones bought in|any Quantltlos. Octobor2s. 18S0



«W £1 Fukk Uifts I—THO Proprietors ol Wolfe's Axiomatic Schikdam Suhnapps, to lnnuco tho destruction and provont tho im proper uso of their wrappers and lubnls, and thus further protoot tho Public against fraud and docoption, htivo enclosed in tho wrappers, or under ho labol on the Quart bottles, siuco Ist Ootobor, 1878, and continue toonolo'io in kvkuy DAY'S PACKING THROUGHOUT 'I'lIK VKAH T H X E X £1 O It 1) B R 8, which aro drawn upon tho undorsißnod, nnd whioh will So cashed by them on presentation. To secure theso Gifts, tue Publio muat bo oareful to aak for, and accopt nothing but, tho Uknuink Udoipho Woi.kks Schnai'l'S, with our name upon tho top label, M. Mobs & Co Wynyard Lano, Bvdnev.



Attention is directed to the ' Observer's' contents list and an important notice ro prizes, which will bo found on tho 7th column of the 3rd pa«o. Madame Lotti Wilmot, at homo for con sultation every afternoon and evening. Mesmer ism and Spiritualistic investigation.-Wharf ' Hotel, Quoen-street.-(ADvT).



Palmer, the Australian cricketer, having lost his billet, has decided to accept an en gagement as a club professional bowler, and having his choice between New Zealand aad South Australia, will probably locate him. sell iv Adelaide.



Iv the insolvency proceedings re William Murdoch, the cricketer, Bannerman was examined iv reference to Murdoch's share of the proceeds of the Australian Eleven. Ho said he could not tell whether any pro fits were made by them. Boyle, Spoifortb, aud Alexander were a committee of finance, and received the proceeds. Murdoch bad no direct interest in the speculation,