SHIPPING INTE LLIGENCE.

HI3H-WAIH.K} To-morrow Mornini?, 9.11 1 UNBKT.—Thin RvonlnK, f1.31 RUN'RTSK.—To-Mnrrow Mornlntr, 5.52 ITJON'S AQK,-Fii'3t Qtmrtur, Sth, 7.41 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

LAST EV if NINO. Fairllo, barqucntino, JlcDoarmid, from New csstlo T,>DA7, Rcna, sclioorc", McKoE^le, from Lrttclton Glenolg. s s , knraulmr, from 'I'auranga Cleopaira, schooner, Koeblo, from Lyttclton Sunbonra, Ealwjoncr, 'I iller, from Manala

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVININQ, Waltaki, s.*., Hutchinson, for Whanßarei Marinor, aoliojnor, Queen, for Kmaotl PovcrciK'i.aiihoonor. llny>voo:l, fur Itarotonga fanny Kelly, ketch. Williams, tor Whangaroa

TO-DAY.

Roderick Dim, br'gantino, Robertson, for WhunKaroa .4dah, Uo'ch, Jone?, for Thames

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

London -Loch Urr, loading; TuurangiV — Ulouolif, ThursJay; Waitakl,

Thursday Ru9Boll—lomi, Monday Whanearoi nnd l(us3o:l-\Vaitakl. Wotlnosday Now Plymouth nnl South—Penguin, Tiio-dny WMingarel—Argylo, Tuesdays and irridny.s

Waitakl. Krid^iy Lovuka—-'outhora Crovs, Bth Friendly Islands—Alyrtlo Islands—Coronet Rarotonga—Sovoroiftn

VESSELS EXPORTED.

Uity ot SydnoF, from San Francisco, 9th Wolvermo, H.M.3., from Sydney, shortly | Moropo, ship, from London Oxford, ship, (AI.T.L 3.) from London ; sailed Doc. i Sydonham, barquo (J.M.F.Q), from London sailod November 27th Avona, barquo, from London; to sail January 15 Chile, barque, from liondon ; loading Orient, bar.iuo, from Now York; to sail Feb ruary 8 Peru, burguo, from London ; loading Loch Dee, barqu", from L.nlon ; sailed Docem her 21 Soporlor, barque, from Now York; sailed Ootobsr 23 Cabarfoldh, barquo (3.Q.M.J.), from Hongkong Himalaya, barque (V.I'.K.M), from London; Orwel), brigantine, from tho Islands Doflanco, brigantino. from Dunediu Fairlie, britrautiuo, from Sydney Kthel, brlgantino, from Dunortln Ryno, brlgar.tino, from Kotumah Look Out, brlgantino. from Sydney Knorgy, schooner, from Noumea Iloron, schoonor, from Sydnoy Mazeppa, schooner, from Rarotongi Marioa, schoonor, from Noumoa Polioemnn, schooner, from Noumea Jnlta Price, schooaor, from Noumoi Dayspring, mission schooner (W.N.U.M.), from

the Islauda Gael, sohooner, froai Lovnka Agno3 Donald, schooner, from Ilnrotonga Sybil, Echoon^r, from Socioty Islaiul3 Transit, schooner, from Rarotonga

IMPORTS.

FSPer Rona, from Lyttelton—Soo eacks wheat, 200 sacks flour. Por Fairlie, from Newcastle :-25j ton 3 coil, 1030 spokes, 700 feet hardwood, and 858 felloes.

EXPORTS.

Per Roderick Dhu, for Duncdin:—l3,ooo feet puriri timbor.

Inwards Coastwise.—Porsevcrance, from Waiheke,

Outwards Coastwisb,—Poi sevoranc?, for Waiheke.

Tho schooner Transit is now at the Islands, and may bo cxpocici about tbreo months hence.

Tho schooner Rona arrived from Lyttelton this afternoon. Shu left that port on tho lUth Instant, and experlencd variable wwher on the run up.

The eohoonor Falcon entered out at tho Customs to-day for Whangarei, where sho will load coals for Kaipura, thence to Alolbourno with timber.

The brigantina showing synald S.L.M.D. sighted by llio Farllo ou the 2.'nd was most probably the Clansman baund for Newcastle, which left this port en tho 19th ult.

The ketch Gertrude, lite Fanny Thornton, in charge ot Captain Hutlmati, lefc Hokianga for Auckland on tho Ist inst.

The s.s. Gleneltf arrived from Taurangi at an early hour thia morning with 110 bags gum, 10 bales wool, 10 tags bran, 3 horses, tand 6 tons sundries, and the following paiseDgers:—Dr. «nd Mvj -Bunioit, Mr and Airs lUcU&ul, Airs Keo'e, liev. Air Stack, Kluislj', Dr. Fisher. Mn Cameron, Mes-ra Jordon Mctcalfo, Hoyto, Charles, Crabbo, Btephenson, Porter Gouk, Auaenne, Kin sly, v> illiatus, Ross, Crowe. Reefe, Brown, nouben, iork, Clarke, and 1 steerage.

The schooner Cleopatra arrived this foronoon from Lyttelton. Air S. Keeble, master, frunishesus with the following report:—Lett Lyttelton, Eebruary 26th. ult., and had light S.N. wind 3 until clearing tho heads when a strong S.K^galo set in, aud continued vi.til off tho Kast Cape which wasjpasaei on the Ist iost', and light Easterly nntil arrival;

Captain Oarrard (master) and Mr Lindsey (chiof officer), lute of the s.s. Albion, havo been appointed to tho same poit3 on board the B.S. Tararua.

The ba'quentino Fairlie arrived from New castle last evening, after a passage of li days. Hhe left Nowcaatle on the lOtb. instant, and ex perienced light northerly wind until the 19th, ■when easterly winds set in and lasted until the 26th, at tiroes blowing frosh, accomDinlod by rain, and at times moderate. On the 25th, veered to the northward, with raio, and sighted Three Kiogg on tho 27th instant, tho wind still north and squally. Sighted Poor Knights same evening, whon tho wind shifted to the eouth ward, and had ho«l winds until arrival. On tho 23rd, exchanged signals with a white brigant'ne showing Biguul S.L.M.D., bound wo;t, lat. 33"17 South, long. 160-32 Kast.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

DEPARTURES. Lalla Rookh, p.s., Campbell, for Raglan Roweni, s.b., Amodeo, for Waitara Owake, schooner, Purdy, for Dunodin Sesgu'l, brig»ntlne, Lang, for Dunedln

EXPORTS.

Per Owake, for Dunedln—32,ooo feot timber. Per Seagull, for Duuedin—9o,ooo feet sawn timber.

Per Lalla Rookb, for Raslan-3i9 pieces timbor, 2500 shingles, 12 sacks and 55 bags flour, 10 bags salt, o chairs, 12 sacks oats, 9 cssbb spirits, 13 eaoks seed, 100 packages sundries,

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

„ ~ . „ Rpsshll, this day, Sailed : Taranakl, for Auckland at 530 a.m.; Waitaki, for Anckland at 7a m. Paseongers :— Messrs MoLean, Ikaka, Te Tal, Archdeacon Clarke, Mrs Nicholson, and 10 othorp.

_ ~ , Hokianga, yesterday. Sailed : Flectwing, for Wanganui.

. , . Wellington, yestorday. Arrived: Wanakfi a.s., from Picton and Ne' eon. Haweaa.s.. from Lyttelton, with the Suez mail. Sailed: Wanatca, for South. Clearod: Hurunui, ship, for Loudon.

Lyttblto.v, yesterday. Arrived: Albion, from Auckland. Sailed Albion, for Port Chalmers.

Port Chalmers, yestorday. Sailed :Te Anai, for North. Passengers for Auckland :-l)c and Mrs Batchelor. Kor Kussall: —Mr Durand. For Syflnsy:—Meßsrs Hall, Howloy, and Williams,

Mail notice.

Mails wir-ii Ci.obk as Under.— Fhiday. lth instant. For Waitara, por Lalla Uookh, at 8 n.m. For Waihoko and Coromandel, por Coro mandel, at 2.30 p.m. Kor Thames, per Kotomahana, ot 3 30 p.m. Per s.e. Tararun an followa :— For India, ChimvJaiian.Mcditoranoan Ports, acd Contlnont of Kuropo, at 3 p.m. For Tauraiißa, Gluborno, Napier. Southorn Ports, Austniliiin Colonlns, and United Kingdom, via Drindisl, for lottorß Bpaeiully co propaid and aldrCssßbd, all p.m. For nionoy orders, registered letters, and nowspapors, at 4 p.m. Latolottors till l.i!0 p.m. ITor VVhi.langl, Talrua, Taurunga, and (Jpotlk, por Glenolg, ut 4 p.m. Kor WlmnKuroi Heads, Par us, Wnipu, Whan garol, and Tangihua, per Argylo, at 1 p.m. For Whangaroi lioada, Parun, Wulpu. Whan garel, and Mnußiipal, por Waltnltl, at 5 p.m. For Thames, per HntorprLso, at 5.30 p.m. Satuuday, sth Instant. For Will worn, MshuranKi, Matakuna, Manga will, oto, pci1 Roao Casoy, at 10 n.m. Monday, 7th instant. For RuHsoll, Kawakawa, Wongaroa, and Mongonui, por lona, at 1 p.m. Wkdnksuay. 9th ins'ant. For Loruka, Tonga, and Samoa, per Southorn Cross, at 3 p.m.

N.l?.—Tho malls for district* In tho Walksito hitherto mado UD at this olllco atlln.m. urc now closed at 7.30 ft.ni. lioturn mails are recolvcd at 5 p.m. S. B. ni3B, Chlof Postmaster. Chief Postoflleo. Aucklftiid.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

Makcii, 3rd, 1881.

Thoatro Royal — TliompnonVi Confudorato Dlorninn of tho Amorican War, 8 p in.

Y.M.O. Association Itoomi—Address by Roy, C. 11. Pym, 7.30 r.m.

St. Matthew's Schoolroom, Hobson-stroot— Tcachor's Conference, 7.30 p.m.

Lorno-strcot Hull—" Lnyul Fountain of Frlon I ship," Anniversary and IJull, 7 p.ri. Onohnnßa—Mrs Willlivuißon'a Garden Tarty. Poneonby Hall—Dancing Clam, 8 p m. Auckland Yacht Club—Wnitomati Hotol, 8 p.m.

Birth.

MULLKNS.-On tho Ist March, tho wifo ot Mr. James Millions, Papatoitoi, of a eon; buth doins: woll. McaUKaOR.-On 2Gt.h February, at VVultomata llotol, tbo wife of Uouuld MoUrt'^or of a son ; stillborn.

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

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 1881.

For th aus that atks assistance, Tor tho wrong that needs resistance, For the future in the distance, And the ood that we can do

The statement of harbour revenue Sub mitted by tho Secretary of tlio Board at the last meeting, proved conclusively what we have before shewn in these columnsjtliat the Board's revenue- is al present ample to pay the interest on the construction of a large :lcck. In tho discussion, which followed, no attempt was maclo to impugn these figures, ami they may, wo presume, now bo accepted as finally disposing of the obligations to the practicability of the schome. But tho tono of the remarks made upon the Engineer's report with reference to site, were not so satis factory. These may bo divided into two classes — those represented by Mr Boylan, who favoured procnisti uation : and those which had Mr Waddell for their chief exponent, who considers that tho intorcsts, real or imaginary, of shopkoepers on this shore, should bo studied in tho solec tion. Now, whilo prudence should prompt tho Board to weigh every consideration before finally fixing upon a site, it cannot tnko very long to settle that question; and oven with it unsettled there is no reason why power should not be applied for during tho approaching session of Parliament, enabling tho Board to raise tho necessary money for tho dock. It is an easy matter to create imaginary difficulties, and no one possesses a greater skill and ingenuity in the art than Mr Boylan; but the Board's solicitor, and not Mr Boylan, should guide tho Board in dealing with the empowering bill. We have nc doubt that if tho Board shewed any earnestness: whatever in desiring to get the power at once, tho Attorney- General could very soon shew them a way.

And now with respect to this question of site—what on earth havo tho interests of Auckland shop-keepers to do with it ? Aro wo to lmvo tho old log-rolling and final fiasco over again? Tho interests of shop-keepers and the interests of Auckland will bo studied most complotely by making tho dock a success, and it can only bo mudo a success by selecting tho very best site, irrespective of whether that is found to be on the North Shore or on the South Shore. If this determina tion is not to guide the Board, and petti fogging considerations about tho interests of property - owners and shopkeepers are to influence tho expen diture of the £80,000, the city should rise en masse and prevent the expendi ture. We havo one abortion ; in the name of all that is ijood, let us not aggravate it by creating another. The determination of tho site is purely and Bimply a ques tion for experts. If tho Board have a doubt about the competency of their Engineer, lot them ask the Govern ment to appoint an Engineering Com mission to determine tho matter in conjunction with tho Chief Harbour Master, who is acquainted with the sot of the tide, the weather, and the tendency to silt at diflierent points of the harbour. Let the question put to the Commission be simply " which is the best site for the dock, I irrespective of all other considerations 1" And Jet the Board see to it that there is none of tho private tiddlewinking which went on before. Their business then is a very simple ono—to abide by the result. But if the cruise round the sites to-day, aided, it may be imagined, by a clothes prop to take soundings, is to havo any serious bearing on the settlement of tho dock question, then heaven help poor Auckland.

The "Herald," in a series of scolding articles, has assailed Mr Vesey Stewart, and it is evident from the persistency with which these attacks arc carried on that there ia at the bottom some lurking personal animosity. If fair wholesome criticism wore applied to the details of Mr Stewart's settlement, we should not consider it worth while to notice the matter, because the scheme, like all others in which special privileges are obtained over the Crown lands, requires very carefully watching; but there are three things about the " Herald's " attacks which look bad, and ought to be pointed ou'. First, they assume discontent on the part of Mr Stewart's settlers, which does not exist, and has never been expressed in any way; f econdly, they consign Mr Stewart's replies and explanations to out-of-the-way parts of the paper, and attack him in laree type in the most prominent place; and third, in these attacks Mr Stewart's statements are wilfully distorted in the evident hope t lat people will not turn to his letter.', or will fail to follow the correspondence. And then, over all, there is the patent venom of the writer, and the obvious construction of the articles so as to bo used in England to prevent Mr Stewart gettiDg more settlers for Te Puke.

We huve not space to review the proruin eucoa of this correspondence which support the positions just stated, but one of the most important will Kullice. The original gri'.vamen of the " Herald's " charge against Mr Stewart was that a uulllberof the settlers he had brought out had taken up areas so small thnt they must be boj;us ; that the average was, in fact, only 7J, acroi per immigrant. Mr Stewart explained that ho bad not pressed the settlers to buy a " pig in ft poke " ; that bo was Hiitislied they would buy tho land when they saw it, and they took up small selections to connect themselves with the settlement, and since arrival his anticipations had been so far justified that tho average U now 2374 acres', instead of I\. This answer, if veri litd by the facts, is plain and satisfactory, yet tho ''Herald" in its leading column* to-dpy says Mr Stewart had avoided, and not answered the charge. The retort is pcurilCj and characteristic ot the whole to-e of the articles, which are mudo up of that curioiw compound of reckless insertion and free interapornion of unadulterated vitu perative abuse for which bur respectable and highly religious contemporary is attain ing Mi unenviable notoriety.

Of Mr Stewart this ii perfectly certain, and we s;iy it with the greater freedom because tho "Star" opposed Mr Stewart's iiiHt gniutj and criticised very keenly his second and third where criticism ap peared desirable, 15ut, we repeal, this cannot be denied: first, that Mr Stewart has dono an immense service t:> tho came of settlement in Auckland ; second, that bu bus nlwayj BCCUI'CtI good sites for his settlements i third, that lie has carried them out in a good practical buaiucss-liko way ; nnd fourth, that he has obtained the hind for Inn settleis on terms which they could not have {jot for themselves, or could only have obtained after exhausting their capital in tedious delays in Auck land. We believe that both Auckland and the settlers who have cast in llieir lot with us through Mr Stewart's advocacy huvo equally n right to he satisfied with his action, and it his capital, labour and energy had been monl fruitful, pecuniarily, to him. self tlmn I hey appear to have lieou, he would have well earned it We want more immigration agouts like Mr Slewart, and more such sctt!ciiK'iitn. We cmc not how many.

Yesterday being Ash Wednesday, (lit; I'ust day of tho IJiiftdrageßUunl tormot absti nence, religious nervines were held in tho Homrin Catholic and English Churches ol the City.

A quorum of the Presbytery mot in Ouchuuga yesterday, and waR constituted in the usual way. Telegrams aud letters were submitted .showing that tho health of tho Her. J. Biuce wus Mich that he would not bn able for ministciiul work for a num ber of weeks, and it wan resolved to take no further steps ill regard to the induction of Mr Bruce to the charge of Ouehunira until the ordinary meeting of the Prc-by tcry on the Ist of April.

At the adjourned annual meeting ol Tauranga school district, the following com mittee took ollicc :—Messrs John Couway, Ben. T. Carlott, G. A. (Jrabbe.J. 11. Sheatli, dipt. 'Punks (chairman), lliehd. liluke, George Davoren (secretary).

A small boy Was drawing a chilli ill 11 piambuliitor yesterday afternoon along Eden Crescent in a careless, rollicking manner, and, wheu near Mr Maxwell Walker's residence, the vehicle overturned and tho child went spruwliug. "Do you want to kill that child," said 11 person who was paining at the moment, " No ; " replied the laughing colonial, " but if 1 can make him cry loud enough, mother will come and take care of him while 1 go torn swim after tho slui'ki by Wynyard Pier. Uonloy caught a whoppar there to-day."

The quarterly enmnuinicaticn of the Masonic District Lodgt) was held last even ing in the lodge-room, Insurance Building There was a largo attendance, both of members and visiting brethren from subordinate lodges. Brother Loddcr, V.W.D.0.G.M., presided. The immediate business o£ the lodge was transacted, and the lodge was closed in tho usual w»v.

The Auckland Yacht Club intends to arrange a programme of yacht race* to take place during the remainder of the present season. Thny will include a race for tho cop valued at £10, prcsonto 1 by the Com modore. The matter will be considered at a meeting of the club to be held at the Waitemata Hotel this evening,

At a meeting of householders of Ilobson ville, Thomas Scott, Charles Hutchinsou, Thomas Carter, Joshua Ocklostou, Stephen Arblastor, Jorcph Dorricotl, and Barbara McLcod, were elected as a committee. Mr T.Scott was chosen chairman; Mr liut iMiinson, secretary ; and Mr Uckleeton, treasurer,

The London correspondent of tho "New York Bun," writing of Sir Hercules Robin son'n purchase for the Auckland Stud Com pany,H»ya:— lioautto was the cheapest marc, but by no means the lowest priced »old. She boasts tlirce Derby winners in her pedigree —Lord Lyon, Thormmby, and Pleuipoti'ii tuviT—ami she ia half sister to lieud Or.

The Diorama of the American War was exhibited in the Theatre lloyal last evening to a large ns<cmblagc of interested spectators by whom tho various views appeared to be grratly admired and appreciated. Lieut. Herman's ventriloquial performance was provocative of great mirth, and he was frequently aud loudly applauded. The general interest, however, centred iv the diitributiou of prizes in which everyone was more or leas directly intereated. The lir.'t prize, a handsome Buite of furni ture, fell to the lot of Mi's Kose Smith, of Chapel-street, and the others seemed to be evonly distributed amongst the various divisions of the heus". To-night another suite of furnituro will be offered, as well as IG7 other proseuts.

A number of boys were ciught yesterday throwing stones at the ornamental lamp post, corner of Princes and Albert streets, Albert Park. Mr Macdonnld fortunately detected them bctore serious damage was done, and warned them of the conse quences of their folly. It was a wonder that the examples already made at the Police Court of boys given to stonj-tbrow ing has not deterred others from the practice.

Xlie meeting o| volunteer ollicers called last night for initiating musketry instruc tion to voluutcors win a complete failure, for out of twenty-six olliccrs or so, only two deigned to put in an appcarauco at the time named, and two more about half-an-hour after. Now, allowing for unavoidable en gagements, the above result indicates great apathy and indiUVrencc for practical eilici eucy." The volunteers as a whole, we arc given to understand, know nothing of, nor are they taught anything with respect to the theory of musketry, which is the foun dation for the practical use o£ their weaponn. So surely auy attempt to remedy this state of things ought to meet with more consideration. Another attempt will, we arc informed, be mado to secure a meet ing next Wednesday at the aame time and place, which we hopo will be attended with better results.

Discussing tho Paletoro question, the " WaikatoMail " says:—"ln our opinion —aud we have much better opportunities of judging than the STAR -these insinuation* arc utterly uncalled for, So for a\ tho in. tercsts of the public aro concerned, tho Government has shown a disposition to drive a very hard bargain with tho natives aud the Association, and to have its pound of flesh. The Native Minister has put on the screw to such good purpose that the Go vernment comes very much the be>t out of the transaction, having secured the pick of two or three of the choicest blocks, at an average price per acre considerably less than that which the Association wiJl have to pay."

About ono o'clock this morning sonic evil-minded, insidiom person terrified tlic inhabitants of a house in the neighbourhood of Symondfrstroet, by vociferously ringing the bell and then decamping, leaving tlic occupantß to imagine what they might of the mad, puc-ile action. Search was made immediately tor the individual by several gentlemen who had been awakened by the noise at that still hour of the night. No trace of him, however, could bo found, although suspicion rcsti very strongly on one or two individuals. Had ho been caught in the act he would Drobablj have etood a chance, in return tor his ring ing the bell, of having his own neck wrung. Hell-ringing Is certainly larrikin-like in its way; but it is reported that there are several low, mean, cowardly, despicable scoundrels hanging about the city, who, bent on plunder, watch their opportunity, and, by terrifying people as above des cribed, quietly help themselves and then do carup. if one or two of them could be arrested and severely punished, there is no doubt that this growing nuisance would be considerably decreased.

A Backwoods paper got hold of a new reporter, and this is the first and last item he brought in :-" We have to announce the sudden death of William Elmira Squinuey who yesterday was killed by lightning, and dropped down dead, and when examined by Dr. Washington. Smith was found to be dead. He died psacefully, aud expired without a struggle; death was instan taneous." That chap had two-thirds as many lives as a cat.

The long cherished wish for a respectable Masonic Hall in Prinbes-strcet will ore long be realised, Yesterday thu foundation was , cut under the supervision of Mr Skinner, the builder. The contractor for tho new hall is Mr Colebrook. who promises to push on the work with all possible speed, The laying of the foundation stone will be at tended with all the ceremonies of the ritual, ut which Brother G. 8. Graham, D.G.M., E.G. ; Brother O. P. Pierce, I.C, ; Brother the Hon. F. Whitaker, 1.0.M., S.C. j and the other dignitaries ot the throe constitu tions will assist. The probability is that whsn the Northern Club ia renovated, and St. I'iuil's enlarged, Princes-street will be come the pall mall of Auckland;

The "Sydney Morlliog Herald" baa an article ou the New Zealand educational statistics, which thus concludes:—" A colony which provides so liberally for the education of its pcoplo, even when passing through a scmou of finnncinl depreesion, bus public spirit cuough to surmount any diflicultios tnat may lie in tbe path of national development."

A conference of Sunday-school teachers will bo held thin evening in jit Matthews' school-room, on which occassion, the Yen. Archdeacon Mnnnsell will deliver an address on "Spiritual Qualifications of a Sunday-school Teacher," aud tho Hcv. I! T. Dudley will read a paper on " Sunday school Lilmuioa." Tnc chair will be taken at 7.30.

Tlio " AVaikato Mail says that Mata niatii ludicß think no more of driving iilt.y miles "shopping" into Cambridge than a city hullo would of an ca»y stroll down Queen-street,

TlioUot. Ci M. Pym will give the address this evening nt 7..'50 at the UMiul weekly lCvannelintic seivico in tho You tig Men's CliriHtinn Kooiuc. The rev. gentleman is an iiivolMiitar.V visitor lei Auckland, having come on here by tho Tururnn ou Tuesday. Mr Pym returns by the stiamer on Friday for Gisborue ahd Napier.

In connection with Ilia Durham strotit lite yesterday, the name of Mr Watson was erroncouuly given iih it partner of Mr Laurie's. We liiivu no doubt Mr WatKon wisliUH it were v fact. Ho it tho maun^iug clorlc.

'I ho salvage from I,lm lire at Mr W. S. Laurie's Btoro in Durham-street will ho sold by auction, by Mr K. Arthur, to-morrow, ul 10 o'clock n.in It compiiioi 400 boxo< of candles mid other mcrchundUo, inucli of which is only nightly duimigod.

Wo understand Unit Captain Qroonlraf, with that indomitable will and many kind ncs»cs he has shown to Iho settlers, has been in communication with .several respon sible gentlemen who are mo-.t anxious to sco steam communication developed in the out lyiusi districts. It is time North of Auck land ran a steamer suitable to the wants ol the NuttlciH, and which will largely dovolopo the mineral rcbouicen of the much-ucglDCtud district of the Wade. Mr 10, Tbouiua has had a personal interview with K. J. Marah, Ksq., of Whangnpoun, who Iran promised that gentleman (one of the best prospector?, in this colony of known fame) that he will assist him by cvory means in bis power to show tho wealth of the dintii'Jt lit his own expense. That gjutlemuu will Mhorlly visit the district to report on its mineral resources.

'1 ho St. Pauls Pariah Magazine for March contains Sunday notices and iufoi mntion of parochial interest. The Incumbent, (Uov. 0. Al. Nelson) informs the congregation that ho will, by request, ro-delivcr n course of live Lenten Sermons on our Lord's Passion, which were acceptably preached at .St. Paul's Cathedral Church live veins a^o. The school-prizes will he handed the deserving scholars of the Sundny pchool at the children's service, on Sunday next. Several other items of information sppenr ill order ; also, amount* of offertories for the past mouth, and hymns, anthems, and calendar for the .Sundays of the current mouth. The literary matter relates to holy days of the English Church, a biography of Hinliop Hull, continuation itt a serial story, brief extracts, several poems, and a pennon by William Benham, 8.U., Yicnr of Margate. The origiual and selected papers form useful leading for the family circle in those quiet hours which intervene between labour and rent.

It will bo remembered lhat about nine mouths ago ;i subscription win set on foot to raise fundi to secure the representation ot Auckland in (he Inter-colonial Outrider Knee at the last legattn, A portion of the proceeds—about £70— was devoted to the [nircliaso of a boat specially built by Mcmrs Swaddle »ud V\ inship, of Newcastle-on ly" c. The nice duly eventuuted, and the Imat ia now in the hands of the Committee. Not curing to undertake the responsibility of her disposal, they Imvo called a meeting of shareholders, which will tako place at the Waitemata Hotel this evening. The business is to past) accounts and dispose of the boat.

A deputation, cmoisting of Major (!rfcn, Messrs J. Chambers. I>. .1. Macdonnell, H. IJrett, P. H. lJlaikmnre, Gordon, and Dicksou, waited on the Attorney-General to-day at eleven o'clock, as representatives of a public meeting held in Curomandcl, ti urge tho Government to make a grant of O"'00 townrda completing the road to the Tiki gohlfield. The County Council have already tpent a largo sum of money on tho work, and have received only £100 from tho Government to far. It was noiuted out to Mr Whitaker that tho Warded had recommended the grant sis a proper one fnr opening up a new goldfield. Mr Whitaker said ho was unaware whether there was any voto available f >r the purpose, hut he w.is of the opinion that the work was one thnt had a legitimate claim on the Government, and ho would do all he could to have the wishes of the deputation gratified. The only way he saw of closing it, unless a vote were available, was by granting a pound for a pound on the amount spent by the County Council. From what be had heard of the district he feU that it had a bona fide claim upon the Government, and he would do all iv his power to press the matter on the attention of his colleagues. Tho deputation thaukod the Attorney- General for his courtesy and withdrew.

The annual meeting of the Presbyterian church of Wairoa South w«s held on the 28th tilt., licv. Thomas Norrie in the Chair. Mr James Bell, the treasurer, read the re port find linancial statement of the pist year, which showed :-Sustcntatiou Fund: Collections, £27 7s 2Jd ; subscriptions, £GG Qi Gd. Special ell'ort for urrc»r», £10 lGs fid : total, £10(J lGs Gd. Special collec lious for missions, &c, £2 11s; building fund, £1G 18s Gd; cemetery fund, £1 ; Sabbath-nchoolfuud, £214s (id ; harmonium fund, £18 : total, £147 7fl BJd. The report of the branch station at Ne%s Valley was submitted by Mr T. Murray, as follows ; Sustcitatiou fund,£lo 5.s 5Jd ; missions.Gh ; Sabbath-school fund, £1 8a ; Day spring tuud (collected by Miss Annie Murray), 7s Gd ; building fund, £11 10s : total, £171 4s Sd. The reports of the Sunday-school and church progress were very encouraging. The old Committee were re-elected, viz., Messrs James Mathcson, James Crawford, li. Coutts, K. A. Coutts, F. J. Wilson (secretary), aud James Bell (treasurer). Sub-Oominittco for Ness Valley: Messrs 11. McKcnzic, D. Cairns, and T, Murray.

At the treat of the children of the New ton East School ill the Domain, Mr Wm Swunson Kave die confectionery, aud Mr Bindon, the head muster of the school, pro vided the cakes and fruit. The following is the summary of racing events:— Softool cup ; presented by Mr Bindon; distances, 100, 300, 410 yards; to bo won twice in suc cession, or three times at intervals, beforo it becomofl the absoluto property of any boy : P. MrKinlny (12 points), 1 ; i<\ L. Keverne (9 points), 2; J. Wishart (4 points), 3. Tho winner of this cup on the previous year, W. Hobsoo, obtained a district scholarship in December, and ia now at tho Grammar School, 100 yarde, under 10 :C. Haslom, 1; C. Good, 2 ; Sampson, 3. 100 yards, 10 and over; G. Good, 1; F. Murphy, 2; W. I Smith, 3. Ono mile, 12 and over :W. Watson, 1; C. Tennant, 2; A. Nelson, 3. Ono mile, under 12 : E. Kimpson, 1 ; G. McGibbon, 2. Half-mile :O. Tonuont, 1 ; Courtcnay, 2; A. Nelson, 3. Siamese race: Warren and Pmitu. Several other events were competed for by the junior boys'.

A Band of Hope gathering in connecliou with the United Free Methodist Church, Pitt-strcct, wns held in the echool-roora last evening, Thcro was a large attendance, mostly of elderly persons, and Mr Couplaml presided. After a hymn had been sung and prayer engaged in the chairman made a short speech, expressing his pleasure to reo such a large pathcringon such an occasion, It was about 50 years since the temperance movement was set on foot, aud even today there were scores of men and women who had taken part in that temperance move ment. He was astonished at the ignorance exhibited by the public generally on this great question, and he knew young ladies who were possessed of a great many accom plishments, but who did not really know what temperance meant and it was the same the world over. Their object should be, not so much to save the drunkards as to abolish the drinking trallic, and he hoped they would keep that in view. Addresses on the same subject were delivered by the Key T. Hodgson (Rev Taylor's successor), and ■Mr 8. Bemus, both gentlemen speaking very strongly in favour of total abstinence, and urging their hearers to work stead fastly in the noble cause which they had undertaken to support. Mr Trigg presided n.t the harmonium, and several suitable selections of music were sung during tho evening.)

Thi March number of the "Church Gazette " continues the " eveu tenor of its way " in obedience to the spirit of its local mission. We find a number of interesting reports of Auckland and surroanding churches, with pleasing accounts of the Bishop's visits to remote settlements, aud confirmation services. The notes ot a visit to Norfolk Island are finished satisfactorily. The sketch of the Church of jj, Barnabas, Bishop Patterson's memorial church, is ft well-wiltten descriptive sketch — drawn with minute, artistic taste. At page twenty seven, we fiud the Key A. Baker's visit to the Great Barrier Island pleasantly re 1 lated in paternal 3tylc» The Sunday school lesaons for teachers, and several extracts, enhance the viilue of this monthly serial.

No. 25 of the "Observer1' ready to morrow contains aa inporUnt announcement rolativo to ths new Bories of prizes—ctohinga of Sam. Morrln, Mr Worthington, and Lord

i-'aliabury, aivi two views (takon on tho spot) cf tho Tiki GoIJHoM. Tho readlDg matter In cludes " Who Killod Zebodoe?" (continued1, 'Iho Tiki Goklllold, "Toars Talo Toare," "Huntod Down" (continued), " Truth Sti'angar than Xid1 Ion," Political Tina, lJo;?Kins; Leaders, and tho usual variety of uooial, satirloiil, and sport inKlfosuip; also, tho Ci.oral Sociotj's CoDoort, by " Lancet."- [ 4 dvt.J

OIISISRVKR Prizes.—Now Series.—All poraona Taklntf tho Noxt KoUr Ktlmtors of tho Oiisukvku will bo Kntlilol to a Chance' In a Drawing for Fifteen PririiW, varying In valuo from £5 to ss. For full particular* and Instruc tions see Friday's issue.

Mcfsrs F. v. Ewingtou, G. M. Main, and J. Ilnuno huvo kindly consontod to act aa adju dloatorß of tho " Doan's Minstrel's" poems, which mint be tout in to iho socr»Uiry not later tlmn tho Bth lint., as thoenturlolniuontat which tho prlzo will bu awarded to tho successful oompotitor will taVo pluco In tho Cliorul Hull on Thursday evening uoxt, tho 10th in»t.

Awake, yo local poela, with your rhymes About tho niurry minstrels of tho times.

Tlie ndjourned mooting ot the Auckland Hand of lioiio Union will b» held to-morrow (Ifrliluy) ovunliix at 7.30 in UioTo.i.pornnoo Hall, whon noveril friends of tho canto will fltur.o their vlows on tho projected union.

A meeting of the subscribers to the B»at Oluh will bo hold thlnovonlnßattlio Waltomatii Hotel for tho purpose of panning tho accounts and oJlurlnK thu boat for sale.

SCINTILLAIIONS.

"Ho brlor; for it ia w'.tn words as with sun beams : tho morn they arc oondaneod the (ioopor they burn."—Kouthby.

A New Zealand Gaelic society has been formed at I uuedin

Tha Cambridge Licensing Bench rofused Mr Madigun'.s license for an hotel in Cam bridge Went. Kodney County Council has voted £10 to oleur \ho navigation of the Tauhoa river for I lie new steamer.

Country schoul committees are sending in letters approving of Mr Liishley'a views on the attributes and powers of locil com mittees ill their relations with the Board of Education.

Mis* Amy Shorwin is still in New York, aud made her lirst uppearuueu for the season in a conceit at Cliickciiug Hull,

Miss Kmily Soldeuo's Company is pro nouuead tho poorest cha has ever been associated with in America.

Tho Gralton Koad Committeo vote on Messrs U. Bobbi*, T. Thompson, and Moat, as candidates for the Buaidof Ellucalion.

A Mr Luwis, died under chloroform while getting four teeth extracted, at Spencer's dispensary, Sydney. Lord Pembroke who WftS in Auckland some years ago bus been entertaining a party at Wilton Abbey, and haH«iveii some very successful private theatricals.

The remains of Lieutenant Irving, of Sir John Franklin's expedition, brought from tho Arctic region by Lieutenant Schwatka, were buiricd at Edinburgh with naval and military honours.

Tho Victoria Company, A.X.V., are resolved to go to the To Awamutu encamp incut whether the other corps go or not. Captain Mahon has instituted preparatory night drills

Mr Simou, the spiritualist, ia lecturing in Duncdin.

A fanner named Goorgo Harod, al Otepopo, near Uamaru, bus been found hanging in the top branches of a tree. He bad told h'n wifo he would hung himself.

Ex-Judge Grewou lies iv a dangerous state at Christchurcb, through being thrown out of a vehicle. He is suffering from con cufHi'oii of the .spine. Typhoid fever is reported iv Ponsonby and other quarters. All decaying matter should bo cleared away at this season. Cleanliness i* the first essential to health.

Mr Sutton bus written urging the Colonial Treasurer to oiler live per ccut bonds, pay able ut tho post oltice on demand, as a temporary investment while tuo present plethora of capital lasts. The preliminary preparations for tho new Maoonio Hall, Princcs-Jtrcet, have been ciminnnccd, and the ceremony of laying the foundation »tone with Masonic lunours will take place in a few days. The Rev. C. M. Pym is in Auckland, and will deliver an address at the Young Mcn'a Christian Association rooms to night. \Vhile our lurbonr salons pause at a big dock, Taranaki is spending half a million iv making a harbour, and littlo Waikouaita, a small village in Otago, contemplates a similar schemo.

" I'll tnko your arm, Misa Ida, p'oaao, OoodfiiHh I'vo neel to ding to." "Good faith. Indeed I' said she, "butthon, My arm Is net the thins; fo Impart you that 1* Responded he, with lips that ne'er denied her, " Good faith Is bona (Mo alrl. And ttiit) is bono of Id».

A Lesson in Mauners.—Visitor : See, no*, would you liko mo to give you a »ix penes ! Darling : Yes. Visitor : Yes ? Yo«, if you— what? Darling: If you "can't afford any more ! "

The Wellington folk nro resolved en another district railway job with their West Coast line. Two thousand pouuds worth of shares have bcon taken up at Palmentonc North.

THE TAUPO FLOATED.

Tub telegram received from Tauranga yes terday announcing that the s.s, Taupo had vt last b;cu successfully floated off, aud that within a few days sho might be ex pected here, was looked upon by many as sonic telegraphic blunder, while others were patiently waiting for the further informa tion that fiho had been dropped again on >ome other rock, but neither calamity oc curred, and she now lies in a position where workmen will bo able to patch her up wheu she will be towed up into Auckland harbour. To go over the account of the wreck of the HtCßiner and the many attempts that have >iuco bceu made is almost unneces sary, as we have so often previously alluded to them. The Taupo has now been on tho rocks for a little over two years, and during that time no less than seven separate at tempts have been made to raise her, all with tho exception of tho last being failures. The money sunk over her recovery by the several gciitlemen who undertook the task, in all amounts to nearly her market value —£7000 having been offered for her when in the dock—and it is probable that had the last attempt been a failure, tUe Taupo would have remained a lixturc. The last actor on the sccno was Mr Grecnleaf, 'who, after having achieved partial Buccess on several occasions, has at length, by his perseverance, been amply rewarded ia her recovery.

The s.s. Glouelg, Cantata Farquhar, with Mr I). Gouk on board, proceeded to Tau ranga at 7 p.m. on Tuesday night, aud reached the scene of oporations shortly be fore 3 o'clock on Wednesday raorninsj. Several fresh hauds were placed ou board the Taupo to get cvciything in the best working order, and at 7.30 o'clock the Glenel? male fast astern-the two hulks sustaining her wcight-and after 10 or 15 minutes towing, the four vessels started her and directly the tide slacked, the Glenelggot fair aatciu aud jerked hor oil. This was about twenty minutes past eight. The Taupo and hor companions were then towed to the Pilot StatioD, but by this time it was found that the tide was running so strong that it was imposiiblc to proceed. All anchors were therefore let go, and further efiorts were held over until the tide slacked. In ihc aftcrnoou, at 3 o'clock they again got undcrweigh and arrived safely nt the Fairwing Buoy in Cross Channel, about a mile and a half below Taurnnga whatf, in five fathoms of water. The diver could thus easily got under her bottom, and ho is to make an inspection in that direction this > morning, and begiu to patch np. Mr D. Gouk came on to Auckland iv tho Glenelg, nud will tako several men down with him next trip for the purpose of effecting such repairs as will enable the Taupo to float without the assistance of the two hulks at present alongside her, and if all goes well we expect to sec her towed up within a fortnight. She will then be docked aud fitted up afresh, probably but little the worse lor her long residence on the Taurauga rocks. Mr Winter, bcingjthe only original shareholder, will derive the greatest benefit from the Taupo'sjrccovcry, and|is undoubtedly envied by tho less fortunate contractors. We are not yet aware of what will be done with the steamer when fitted up, but it is quite possible that she may take up her old trade to the South.

CABLEGRAMS.

[RISUTfiE'S TKLKURA:MS,

TROOPS FOlt SOUTH AFRICA. LONDON, Match 1. It is announced that, in addition to the three regiments which yesterday received orders to proceed to the Transvaal, tuxther reinforcements comprising three more regiments of infantry, a battery of artillery, and a detachment Of cavalry, will also bo despatched without delay for service against the Boers, THE KILLED IN THE BATTLE. CAFE TOWN, March 1. An official report of the battle at Skitskop gives the following figures of the casual ties on ttio Bide of the British: OHicers— killed, 3 ; wounded, 9 ; taken prisoners, 7. Rank and file-killed, 82 j wounded, 120 ; and 250 laketi prisoners. HONOURS TO GENERALS. LONDON, March 2. It is announced that Generals Sir JDonald Stewart nnd fcir Fred, Roberts are to be created Baronets. IKISII COERCION BILL. The House of Lords has read the Irish Coercion Bill a second time. In the House of Commons last night tho Irish Aims Bill was read a lirst time, and the measure was voted " urgent" in order to give the Speaker power to suppress ob struction to its passage through the House. With a similar object the consideration of supply was also doclurcd urgent. COMMERCIAL. LONDON, March 1. Consols are unchanged at'JOJ. Tho market for Adelaide and New Zea land breadstulls is without quotable change, prices remaining at 59s Cd for Adelaide wheat, ex. warehouse : 45s for NewZeuland whout, ex uhip : 34s for Adelaide flour, ex warehouse. Australian tallow: Beit beef, 345; best mutton, 375. New Zealand pccuritics remain at last quotations—viz., 5 per cent. 10-40 loan, 100 j5" per cent. 1889 loan, 110; 4$ per cent. 1879-IOOi loan, 98. Best Scotch pig iron, No. 1, f.o b. in the Clyde, has declined to 50j 01 per tou.

AUSTRALIAN.

COURT OF HIGH uOMMISSION,

SYDNEY, Thursday.

In the Legislative Assembly last night, Mr Coombes, C.M.G., gave notice of motion in favour of a petition to the Queen praying for tho institution of an inquiry in the work ing of tho Court of High Commissioners for the Western Pacl/ic.

KKFORM BILL.

MELHOUIOE, Thursday

Il is considered to be improbable that a division on the Reform Bill to-night, iv tho AoHOinbly, will be a party one. Alter second rcadinirMr Murray Smith will move to refer tliu Bill to a Joint Committee of the Council and Assembly, but it is nut known what action the Government will lake in the matter.

A discussion took plncc in the. Assembly last night on tuo question of prosocuting the " Argus" for its criticisms on the action of the Government, but the matter was allowed to drop without any docision being come to.

R. M. COURT.-This Day.

(lieforc J. E. Macdonald, Esq., It,M.)

UNDEKKNOED CASKS.

IN the following oases judgment was given for the plaintiffs in default of nppnarauce by •r for the defendant!, viz. :—Cloie Bros, v. Henry JJrcwer, £25 89 4d, on a promissory note ; Goodacro and Lees v. J, F. Watt, £11 14s Gil, for «oods sold and delivcioil ; Holland and Fortzcr v. Patrick McGuiness, £8 9j 3d ; Same v. Wm. Livingstone, £11 9s lOd; Wm. Thome v. W. C. Perrin, £4 19.i Od ; Thos. Fordyce v. Wm. Lov» tides, £6" 2s 4d, for goods supplied ; Jas. Watt v. tiichard George, £3 Ba, fur goods supplied. ADJOURNED. Charles Brook, v. Douuld Taylor ; John Smyth, v. Ileury Hanley; Holland and Butler, v. Thonius Willis ; Wm. Cocliranc, ►on., v. John Mullully; John Fobs v. Jeffrey 0. IJart; SomerCeld and Lock v. liernard McUnith ; Henry Hoa;; v. T. ,M. Mochattio ; ltichard Laishley v. Joseph Hennett, claim, £12 13« 6<l for interest This case was undefended, but His Worship decided to reserve judgment upon it. JUDGMENT SUMMONS CASES. F. G. Ewimjton, v. Charles Jones, claim. £5 4» (id. Mr Theo. Cooper appeared for the judgment creditor and obtained an order for the payment of the det at the rate of "s G<l per week ; iv default, 21 days' im prisonment. Kobertßon Bros, v. Daniel Munro, claim, £1 ISs 9J. Mr J. M. Alexander appeared for the judgment creditor. An order was made for the payment of £2 0s 9d before the 7th April, in default seTen days' itu p somncDt. DEFENDED GASES, G. 11. Laters v. William Bennett.— The action was one of detinue. Mr George appeared for the plaintiff and Mr Theo. Conper tor the defendant.—George Howard Layers was the fir»t witness. He said that ho was suing the defendant for detention of a certain horse and cart and harness; the horse was worth £25, tho cart £10, and the harness, £5. He purchased the cart at an auction sale, ami the horse also. They had been seized for satisfaction of a debt, and after witness had bought them, he leased them to Purcell. When he heard that this individual was in ditlicultics, he (witness) began ti enquire after the leased property. Purcell told him that he would tind the horse, cart, and harness at the place of one Burnett, at Onehunga, Ho did not find it there, however, but see ing them in the street one day, ho seized them for rent in arrears. By tho advice of Mr Jas. Kuosell (defendant's solicitor) he put them In Lendrum's stables, Mr Lend rum to hold them until the dispute was settled. Defendant afterwards tcized upon the suggestion of his legal adviser, and witness had seen them iv his possession eince. The rent which he had charged Purcell was £2 per week. In the first instance, the money for tho purchase of the , horse, cart and harness, was advanced in the way of a loan, witness retaining them as security until they had been paid for.— Mr Cooper submitted that after this evi dence tho action mutt fail. The founda tion of the law of detinue was the right of property, and it appeared that tho plaintiff had neither property nor possessionl, ouly security for his money.—After some discus sion it was agreed to bear tho defendant's case.—Augustus William Burnett, the defendant, deposed that ho purchased the horse, cart aud harness in question, from Purcell some time in July last, for £47 10, paid in ca»h. Purcell never men tioned plaintill's name iv connection with the matter, while a tiu plate upon the cart boro Purcoll's name. He was a carrier and used the hose and cart uninterruptedly from July to January last, when Air L.ivera seized it, being in town with it almost daily duriug the period alluded to, ■ several times even driv ing up to plaintiff's store with it. Up till the time of seizure, Layers' name was not mentioned to him in connection with the horse and cart.—The learned counsel hav ing addressed tho Court, plaintiff was non suited with £4 5s costs.

Geo. Mason v. Thomas Steadman. Claim £2 Is 2d.—This case was adjourned by consent. The Court then rose.

AMATEUR ATHLETIC CLUB SPORTS.

The following entries were received last night tor the Auckland Amateur Athletic Club Sports (o bo held on the Domain Cricket ground on Saturday, 12thinstant:— i 120YAHDS(Handicap),-T Hynn, N. G. Pierce, J. Spry, B. H. Keid, H. Cook, J. M. Sibbln, J. Sims, J. K. M. Btowarr, C. B. White, A. A. G. Lewis, If. Montague, I). Watson, H. Uulpan, W. Sibbin, H. H. Davy. Quarter-milk (Handicap).—T. Philcox, C. Brown, J. Spir, H. Cooke, J. Simß, J U. M. Sib bin, C. K. White, F. H. Williams, D. W»tson, H. Calpan, A. F. Moprlnie, T. F. Loos. Hai f-mh.ii.—D. Watson, IS, M. Clayton, H. Cilpan, T. F. Lees. OftK-Mir.*.—". Z. Clayton, E. M. Clayton, T, F. Loos. H. (iilpan. Walking Kace, two miles—N, Pierce, R. O'C. BigRS.M. Gallagher, J. Spry, A, Jf. Moßinlo, T. F. Loos, H. H. Davy. 120Y*HDS Hurducs.-T. G.Sibbln, J. Spry R. H. Heid, F. X Williams,V. M. Sibbin. J. ft M. Stewart,. O.R!. Whito, H. Culpan, A. If Motflnie, W. sibbin, H. H. Uavy. 220 Yards Huhdles—T G Sibbin, J Cpry F. K. Williams, J. M. Sibbin, C. E White h' Culpan, W. Sibbin. Throwing the Cricket Bam, C.K. Forder It. N. K. Forder, S. Weaton, T. Ryan, N. G. Pierce, A. Beale, W. H. Voreker-Bindon, Percy Daufaur, D. Lynch, H. Cooko. Dkop Kicking.—T. Ryan, R. Whiteaido, A. Beale, W. K. V. BindOD, K. Cooko, J. M. Sibbln, J. Webster. Hian Jdmp.—J. M. Sibbin, O. K. Wlvto, F. H. Williams. T. G. Slbbinß, 11. 11. Uavy, T. Ryan, Tug ok Wau.—Auoklard Rowing Club, North Hhore RowinglClub. Urafton Football, Club Otahuhu Cricket, Club. Auckland Cricket Club' West jßnd Cricset Club, Ponaonby Wowing Club*

MURDER OF AN INFANT IN WELLINGTON.

[Jjy TBLEaRAI'H.-rKESS ASSOCIATION.]

WELLINGTON, this day. The skeleton of an infant was found last night concealed under the hush in the Botanical Gardens. The skull had the appearance of having been smashed in, which is thought to have caused death. The detectives have the case in baud.

THE TE AROHA MURDER.

The Accused Committed for Trial.

(BY TELEGRAM, OWN D3KBKSPONDKNT.)

GRAIIAMSTOWN, this day. Tjie Te Aroha murder magisterial investi gation was formally closed thn morniiig by the committal of tho prisoner for trial at tho next criminal sitting of the Auckland Supreme Court. The Bench complimented Mr Superintcudeut Thomson ou the patience and ekill exhibited in the conduct of the case, and counsel for the prisoner thanked the justices for their impartial hearing.

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Before Messrs John Cosgrave (chair), and F, L. Prime, Justices of the Peace),

IHEBBiAMS

John Gollarjd, a man of venerable appear ance, was lived ss; Robert Rash, 10s; Alexander Stewart, ss; iind Julia Mooney, ss, for drunkenness. WHAT I ANOTHER MIKE O'CONNOR? Michael U'Counor, labourer, was brought up on a charge of drunkenness and with assaulting Constable Michael O'Connor in Victoria-street, by lacking aud otherwise ill-treating him. Prisoner had no clear recollection of the occurrence, being under the influence of liquor, lie would not willingly kick a namesake. Constable Michael O'Connor deposed that at midnight lie was on duty iv Victoria street, when i: lady came to him aud said there was a drunken man in her yard, and she wi.-.Vd to have him removed, flo accompanied the lady and found the prisoner, apparently unconscious, on the ground. He raised him, and helped him out of tiie premises, Thinking the prisoner was very druulc, he did not take such pre caution as he othewine should have taken when all of a sudden the prisoner sung out " What ! another Mike O'Connor," and he immediately gave him several severe kicks on tho thigh. The prisonor, it appeared, was a labourer, and hud come into town from the bush, and had been drinking freely. The Bench, in consideration of circum stance, and that tho prisoner had not been previously convicted, lined him 25i with costs 4". i THE WATCH 110BHKHY. IJcnjaniin Bennett, on remand, was brought up on a chat go of breaking and en tering 111 3 shop of Mr John Ayica, watch maker, of Victoria-street, on tha 25th alt., and stealing therefrom six silver watches, value £42. Mr Tardy conducted tho ca^c for the police. The prisoner was undefended. John Ayres deposed that he was a watch muker in Vietoria-streer, but did nut reside on the p, cruises. His sou was in his em ploy. On the 25th of February (Friday), he and his Km loft tho shop about 1.30 to go to dinner. 11 is son locked the shop. There are two rooms at the back of tho shop. There is a back door and three windows to those rooms They were all fastened and tli'j door was strongly bolted. lie went to Mr liowden'.s iv Hh' rtlaud-street. His son went home to dive. lie was accompanied by Thomas Scott of Freeman's Buy. On having Howdens he looked in at Mrs Sccats', the British Hotel. Did not see the prisoner there. Kemained about ten minutes. Took one short glass of beer. Chatted with several persons iv the street on things in general. He then made his way back to the shop, still ia Scott's company. He un locked the door and went in, but did not obseivo anything wrong. His son shortly after cauie in, and presently said, "Father, what have you done with the watches? Tucy are l.ot in the window." Ou looking at his window stock he misled six silver lever watche.». He went iuto the back room and saw one of the sash windows half-way down. The watches produced are my property, aud worth £42. Theie is a Ride-HUto loading to the back of his house. He did not know the prisoner in the docK. William Ayere, son of the preceding wilursf, corroborated hU father's statement. Had been to dinner, and, as wan his usual custom, he counted the watches in the window on crossing the street, and missed six. He fastened the back window with a gimlet. It was half open, and the work board broken down.

Thomas Scott, bricklayer ami oven-builder of Freeman's Bay, g*vc cridenee as to accompanying Mr Ayres at stated by the prosecutor. The prisoner was a t trangcr to him, but, on leaving the "British," he believed ho saw the prisoner standing out fide.

James Niccol, fisherman of West-Queeu street, saw Mr Ayres at tU.c bar of the " British" between one and two o'clock, and prisoner watching at the bar door. Bennett told witness that he was going to walk ss far as Ayres' shop ; he went in that direction Witness followed him, keeping him iv sight all the tima. Saw Bennett enter the premises by the side door; lost fight of him, but did not see him go through tho window. Witness waited, for him by the "Koynl Mail." Scarcely five minutes when prisoner came out, and on cotnins to him (Niccol) witness said, " Well, what have you got?" Bennett replied, with a smile, " I've got six supers, Nic." The Bench : What are supers ?

Witness : A slang word for watches, used by Londou experts iv tho light-lingered profession. To Mr Pnrdy, in continuation of evidence: He followed prisoner towards Freemen's Bay. Saw him go on to a vacant piece of ground at the corner of Nolson-street. He dug in several places, and appeared to be planting tlio watches. Witness returned, and prisoner overtook him in Queen-street Had an eye upon Bennett while ho planted, but Bennett could not see him. Uu coming up, Bennett said : " I know of a mark for the supers ;" meaning the watches. Prisoner told witness that Moriarty was the man to do the super*. Witness, feeling that he was iv bad com. pauy, gave prisoner the slip, aud meeting Detective Brcuuan narrated the circum stance to that officer.

To the Bench: He followed him to Ayrcs1, thiukiug there was something up ; they were intimate friends ; had been drunk together for a fortnight.

Mr Cojgrave : This is a case of Queen's evidence, or something very much like it; one pal splittiug upon the other.

Witness : I spent £10 which came into my possession in prisoner's company ; well, I had a fatherly care over him.

To prisoner: You shewed me the watches. Did not plant them myself,

James Moriarty, cook and steward, residing at Mount-street, out of employ ment at presont, saw the prisoner ou Fri day at the Wharf Hotel. Prisoner said he had six capital watches for sale, and would he buy tuom. Witness agreed to sec aim in the morning at 9 o'clock, but failed to meet him.

To the Bench : Took the prisoner for a sailor. Was not aware that he had been in gaol a number of times.

Chailes Mack, hawker, \im called to shew that Bennett offered to sell him six watches, but they did not come to terms.

Detective Brennau gave evidence. He and Constable Strathern searched in the allotment pointed out by Niccol, and found throe watches in one spot and threo in an other. Ho arrested_ the prisoner at 9 o'clock the next morning. Had known the prisoner ollicially for thirteen years.

The depositions were theu road over to the prisouer, who, reserving his defence, was fully committed for trial sit the April Criminal Sittings at the Supremo Court. This was all the business.

LATEST MINING.

Tokatea.—The Mine Manager reports : "The .No. 7 level has been driven 24 feet during the week. Tho country has been of the usual character up to last night, when we cut a. broken belt of ground harder to bore and bad to break, which has pinched the lender out to a small seam or striugcr, and carrying a hard band of mullock where the le&der should be. However, the walls coutiuue well defined ; therefore, it is pro bable the quattz will make again in a few feet more driving, and the broken country now met with may be a continuation of similar ground under the Van level which has carried tbe water down as far as the levels, have been opened out. If ?o, we may expect to cut tho drainage line within the next week's driving. Thodes' party have about 30 tons of general stuff ready for crushing, and they have nearly worked out the old stopea in the No. I lefef, and are prospecting for new ground higher up the hill, near to Hornibrook's old work "

LATER CAPE NEWS.

[Pkk Orient Stbambk Cuzco.]

FIGHTING THE BASUTOS.

(Jape of Good Hope Summary,

CAPE TOWN, 20th January. During the last fortnight success Las attended the operations of the colonial forces ou the Transkcin territory. vVhcre. over the rebels attempted to make a stand they have been very roughly handled by the military chief",' who have gained positions enabling them to play into one another's hands, with the result that a large number of sheep and cattle have changed owners, and the War iv tuat portion, of the country has virtually ended. Lately it was rumored tuat the Pondoese occupying the country between Umbala and the northern portion of Natal, were rising and marching on Kokstad. It has now been shown that the lising was only against an Xesiba tribe aud already they have sull'ered severely for it. So confident are the authorities that there is no danger in that quarter, that some troops who had been doing duty j a the Transkei, lelt for Basutoland, and others are shortly to follow. In the early portion of last week Umditchova, one of the Pondoese chiefs, surrendered to a party of volunteers, and was forwarded to King William's Town.

Four hundred Tembris lately in rebellion have been sentenced to work for twelve months at the diamond mines at Kimberly for half-a-crown a day. On the 14th inst. a severe engagement oc« cured between a column commanded by Colonel Brabant, nurabeiing 1000 men, and a rebel force of over 4000Baautoj, The en., gageraent lasted for four hours, when the rebels were beaten from every position they attempted to occupy, and retired to their villuges. Our losses Were twenty killed and as many wounded. Among the latter was Dr M'Kae, the only medical man in the field, who, though badly wounded early ia the engagement, heroically attended tho other sufl'crers. It is stated that Brigadier-General Clarke will leave the head-quarters, King Wil. liarn'a Town, almost immediately for 1 Basutoland, when the force will bo strengthened there, and an elective blow be struck at the rebellion. Affairs in Transvaal. It i* to be regretted that we cannot assume the same conh'dent tone with regard to matters in the Transvaal,which seem to be going from bad to worse. The newly created republic is carrying matters with a high hand, and seems determined to leave itself no means of escaping from the position taken. The Boers now admit that the at tack on the 94th Regiment on the road to Pretoria was pre-arranged, and their men advanced aud lired ou the colonial troops after the Hag of truce had been ostentati ously displayed. Captain Lambert, of the 21st Fusiliers, has arrived at Moritzburg, and reports that he aud Pay. master Elliott, of the 94tb, were taken prisoners by the Boers, and subsequently released on parole. They were escorted to the holders ot the Free State by an armed force. When crowing the river the escort iired, shooting Elliott, and continued firing at Lambert until he gut out of iange. Elliott's body has since been recovered, and shows five bullet wounds.

Postal communication with Cape Colony and Natal has been stopped, and there is Sjreat diiliculty in information reaching m from tbe scene of tlie outbreak. Jt is supposed that the administrator, Colonel Canyon, remain? shut up in Pretoria. It U said that the tort is capable ot re sisting any armed attack ; mines charged with dynamite have been made at different positions and connected with the Govern ment llouse by electric wire. It is believed there is ample ammunition in the fort, but water is tcarcc. The troops in the Tranßvaal and immediate borders consist of the 21st Regiment, sSth Regiment, 60th Rifles and 94th Regiment. All have suffered from desertion and other causes. The number of men available for service against the Boers in the fcur infantry regiments will be about 2000 men. Sir George Colley's artillery lias been strengthened by the landing of tbe Naval Brigade with field-pieces and Sailings, from H.M.S. Boadicea. Stranec ai it may seem, the self-styled republicans claim Aat.il as their port, and lately mado an incursion into the northern portion of tbe colony. They now occupy a position within the boundary of the Transvaal, and threaten to oppose any troops who attempt to enter tha countiy.At Utrecht the Boers seized tho magazine, containing a. large qiiantiiy ot ammunition. The general impression nero is tliat the Portuguese will not allow tha Imperial Government to land reinforcements at Lorence Marquez (Delogoo Bay), as hitherto they they have maintained most : friendly relations with the Boer?, and in fact have refused to grant this and other privileges Rome time ago. Public meetings are being held in all directions in the Trans vaal to give expression of sympathy with tbe malcontents. In the Free state the feeling is more intense, and it is openly stated that those soldiers who have been taken prisoners by the Boers and relensed on parole have been unable to obtain food or shelter while parsing through the Orange River Re public, hi the direction of this colony or Natal. President Brands, who is a native of this colony, practised many years at tho bar of our Supreme Court and occupied a seat in the House of Assembly, is, doubt less, well disposed towards England, and it is stuted that he will resign in the event of finding that he cannot restrain his people. The Volksraad has b^en convened for 19th of the next month.

The present outlook of affairs is very dismal, and Governor Sir Hercules Kobin fon will have a difficult task before him. An English telegram states that the Go vernment advised Sir Hercules Robinson that any proposals for confederation must be initiated by the colonies concerned.- He is directed to exert his influence in favour of leniency and moderation towards the Basutos, and not to consent to any confisca tion of territory. This fits in with tho general feeling of the public Trade is steadily increasing. The cus toms duties last month are in excess of those of any similar period. The harvest in the western districts is a failure. It is estimated that during the current year the colony will have to import about 20,000 tons of wheat aud 10,000 tons of flour.

MINING NEWS.

MINE MANAGER'S REPORTS.

Luck's all,—We are stripping the cross leader aud have been doiug so since my last of Saturday. We purpose breaking dowu to-morrow, and if there is any change for the better I will let you know cither by wive or letter.—S. Geicble, March Ist,

New Nouth Devox.—7oft. level. In driving cast, tho reef has reduced in siza to about two feet. It still, however, bears a very promising appearance, showing a little gold when broken down. Stopingis still carried on by six men, and on account of the want of water at the battery, I do not see my way clear to put on any more at present. Tho stuff brokeu iv stopes still maiiitainsHsoriginalcbaractor. Winze: The reef here still appears as last reported. 160 feet level.—l received the following tenders for carrying on this drive :—Pascoc, £111*; Long, £1 7s 9d ; Bee, £1 Cs 6d. The last being the lowest, is recommended. Battery. — I propese, should the battery con tinue working so long, to clean up on Friday next, or if not, I will do so when the battery is again stopped by the County Council, when I will let you kuow the result. The general stuff (as far as we have been able to carry on crushing) is shaping for a payablo return. There have been tailings sold during this month to the amount of £54 11s. —John Willcox. March Ist.

Hopeful G.M.G.—The new tunnel has beon driven 15 feet the past week, the dis tance for the fortnight being 32 fret. I cut a loader in the face of the drive on Friday i which may turn out to be the cross lode. It is running tho same course, but whore it is intersected there is a splice in the same. It is very small, averaging about three inches. I saw colours of gold in the stone. Where it passes through the reef, it carries some nice minerals, but I saw no gold. There is little or no water coming from the same. 1 purpose to continue driving on this week in order to satisfy myself whether it is the right lode or not. In breaking down the main lode I saw a few colonrs of gold. On the '.vhole, it is a very pro mising body of stone. Its thickness is about sixteen inches. The country about tho same is all that could be desired for carrying gold. I cannot understand the little drainage there is, as the reef is inclined to bo so open. In the No. 2 Level the drive on the mundic view is still in very hard country. It intersected a small stiinger, but 1 saw no gold in it- There is nothing fresh in the stope. I have put one man to carry the No. 1 rise up a stopc higher.—E. EOWSE, March Ist.

COROMANDEL, this day. The Tokatea and Bjsmaeck.-I visited Tokatea to-day. The main lode in No. 7 level is continuing along the outside wall as before, but a change has come in tbe face, the wholo of which is covered with c triggers and veins of quartz.

THE- AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, THURSDAY. MARCH 3.



Special Advertisements. T. W. H ICKSON (Lato Inspector Goneral Survey Department), Begs to inform his frienda and the public generally that ho has retired /rom the Govern ment service, and entered into business as LAND BROKER. Licensed to Transact Business under tho Pro visions of the Lund Transfer Act. Several Good Investments Open. Some of the Best FARMS about Auckland to Lot. Splendid Building Sites in and out of town' Surveys of every description at Lowest Possible Rates. Conveyancing under Land Transfer Act at trifling cost. SOUTH BRITISH CHAMBERS, Corner Quben and Shortland sthekts. r\ k c s s I (HOODS. WANTED KNOWN: QOOD JJ3KIWL J)RKSS jyjATERIALS ARE BEING SOLD AT HALF I'RICE. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN'S. Is 6d Materials for od. Wo havo bought a largo JOB LOT of tho above, and aro giving our Customers the benefit. }'



FANCY DRESS MATERIAL In Gkeat Variety. «3tat a heavy reduction"®! off usual pricc3 to Clear Our During Tub Sbason. A Feesh Lot OF GOOD CHEAP TWEED GOOD CHEAP IffEJD for Boys' Wear «TJUST TO HAND.TC* o% Discount (Is in the £) allowed off all CASH Purchases of 20i and Upwards. "DUSHBROOK & "ORIDGMAN, DRAPERS & CLOTHIBRS lOpposlte the Army and Navy Hotel], Uppeb', Que bh-strebt, Auckland}



Special Advertisements. CIROWDS assembled last Saturday Kven ) ing to inspect tho "Greatont Novelty of tho Ago,* exhibited at tho City Hall Aicado, consisting of Patont Umbrollas with Movable Covors,'3O constructed thatthoycanbo ramoved from tho framo or roplacod in a fow sooonds ; frames superior to old style: tho covors novol and economical. First introduced to tho Auck land public by QARLICK & CRANWKLL. ANOTIIIC ■■{ NOVELTY is tho " Hatte Moun tain Rug " first soon on this sine of the world at tho Sydnoy Exhibition. Tho undor signed wore so struck with tho handsomo appoaranco. beautiful finish, and durablo con , siruction of theso Ruga that tnoy atonoosont for a largo ehiiimont, wli'oli aro now finding ready Halo. Thoy nrn imltnblo for TouhbU, Carriago luirs, Golddiggers, and 'lravellors by land and sea, as tho warmth and comfort imparted surpass all other woollon Rurs. Only obtainable at tho City Hall Arcade, GABLICK & CRANWELL. Proprietors. OH-INCII GRKY 9IIKETINU (unusually OU hoavy and wide): First-olnss quality; a largequantityjustopenod; will bo sold at Is Gd to clear quickly. GARLICIC & CRANWKLL.



CHILDREN S Two Button'.Kld Gloves Ladiea' Kid-Stitched Baok (sound), Is 6d'j)cr pair Boys' Jersey Suits (with caDs), I'M 0d Men's Whito Shirts, a lino at us lid, worth 7s fid Black Silk and CheuilloFrliiKO,2s Gd (very good) GARLIOK & CUANWKLL. BLACK CILK3 at Co-oporativo Prinoa. Wo study to sell tho Cheapest Hlaok Sllka In Town, commencing at 2s £U up to lls Gd. Our la Gd quality commands a roady ailo—splondid Val"°' GARLICIC fc CRANWULL. END OP SKASOV, Clearing ont of Rom nan's. A quantity of Homnants oro clearod olfovory Friday and Saturday, at Choap Rates, by GARLIOK & CRANWKLL. REMNANTS of Dross Goods and Trimmings RKMN A.NTB of Prints and Satoonß RRMNANTS of Ribbons and Kmbroidcry REMNANTS of Shooting and flannel RHMNANTS of Tweeds and Moloakin RKMNANT3 of Damask and Cietonnes RKMNANT DAYS, Friday and Saturday at tho CITY HALL ARCADK. GARLICK & CRANVVKLL



a T\RAPKR¥ AND /CLOTHING / P.\ AT /C_S. V 0 CASH \y prices, PggS C a±lli 535322 AT TUB /^ I T V TTAhh ARCA UK, Quekn-Stubkt, Auckland. GARLICK & CR AN WELL. TU S T RECEIVED, AMERICAN LAWN-SPRINKLERS, With Platod Armi. Also, LAWN EDGE-CUTTERS, Quito Now. E. POUTER & C 0., Qceex and High streets. T U S T B ECEIVED. Ladies' and Gibls FINK CASHMKRK JKR3BYS. BOYS' JKP.SEY SUITS. TASI O'SIIANTER HATS. JERSSY COLLARS. COUDS AND TASSEL?, for Dro3scs. mothkr hudbard cloaks. Also in Stock, a vkry large assortment



Ladies' and Children's UNDERCLOTHING and BABY LINEN. ■VT IL N X & |^JH OY C E QUEEN-STREST. W INKS & jnTALL. HAVE REMOVED FROM SHORTLAND-STREET TO TEMPORARY PREMISES IN FORT STREET, OPPOSITE COCHRANE AND SON'S AUCTION MART, AND WILL CONTINUE THBIR CHEAP SALE FOR A FEW WEEKS LONGER, TO CLEAR SURPLUS STOCK.



THEY ILL EEMAIN IN FORT-STItEET DURING THKKE-BUILDINCJOFTKKIR WARE HOUSE IH SHOBTL AND-STREET. OTOCK-TAKINU DA KGAINS In preparation for Stock-taking, WIOLIAM RA.TTKA.Y has) REDUCED THE PRICES OP HIS LARGE AND WELL-ASSOKT.ED STOCK OK QUMMER pOSTUME?, VTANTLKS, AND TV/TILLINKRY, In ordor to effect a clearance. | COSTUMES at 128 6d Reduced to 9s 6d , COSTUMES at 198 Gd Reduced to 153 COSTUMES at 25s Reduced to 19a Cd COSTUMES at 30b Ekducbd to 23b COSTUMES at 353 Reduced to 28a Gd COSTUMES at las Reduced to 37s Gd MANTLES and MILLINERY aro Reduced in similar proportions, > AT j •WILLIAM T> ATTRAY'S Costume, Mantle:, Millinery, & General Drapery Establishment, KW ZKALAND HOUSE, 66, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND.



ANNUAL SALE WILL COMMENCE ON MONDAY, 20tji ikst. THE GOOD 3 WILL BE OFFERED AT riOST pulCEi FOR A FEW WEEKS ONLY I In Order to Clear Heavy Stocks J pOBGRAVK & riO., Importers of DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, quben-strebt, Auckland. N,B,—No Goods will'kentered 'during the Sale,



mr £1 Frkk uiPTSi-rno Proprioto's of Wolfe's Aromatio sohikdam soBNAi-pa, to lnduco tho destruction and provent the lm propor uso o! thoir wrappers and Übals. ftnd thus furthor protect tho Pubio against fraud and docoption, liavo enclosed In the wrapper?, or under tho labol on tho quart bottles, smco Ist Ootobor. 1878, and continue toonclo3O IN KVKBX DAY'S I'ACKINO TinWUanOUT THE YKAB r H H X X £1 O R D B It S, which aro drawn upon the undcrsignoJ, and which will bo cashed by thorn on presentation. To s-ouro theso Gifts, tuo Publio must bo careful to ask for, and accept no-hlng but, tho Hhnuink Udoiivio VVom.'ks Sciinapi>s, with our namo upon tho top labol, M. Moss & Co. W) nyard Lano, Sydney.