SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

II l.Ui WATKK-j^f <>mon . ow Morning, 5.20 1 TJNBF.T.—This Kveuing, 7.12

' UNKIBK.—To-Morrow Morning, 5.1G M JON'S AGK.-Now Moon, 30th, 0.27 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

LAST KVKNINQ. Anthone, brlttantinc, Payne, from Oamarn Columbia, schooner, Conway, (com Kussell

TO-DAY. Boatricn Havoner, barque, Havenor, from Now York

DEPARTURES.

TO-DAY.

Rotorua, 8.8., Tozer, for South

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

London—Dunloo, loading; Loch Urr, to follow Tauranga—Ulenelg, Wednesday; w aitalci, Mon-

day Rußsell—lona, Monday Melbourne, via South—Rotorna, Thursday Whangarel and Hussoll-Waitaki, Wednesday Now Plymouth and South—Hawea, Tuesday Whangatoi—Argylo, Tuesdays and Fridays Waitaki, Friday Frioniliy Islands-Myrtle

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Southern Cross, b.s., from Lovuka, Saturday ltoiorua, s.s , from Sydney. Wednesday Australia, P.M.s.a., from Sydney, February 1 Wolverine. H.M.3.. from Sydney, shortly Oxford, ship. (M T.L.S.) from London; loading Sydonham, barque (J.M.F.Q.), from London sailed November 27th Pern, barque, from London: loading Loch Dee, barqire, from London; sailed Deconv

bor2i Beatrice Haverner, barquolJ.Q.C.L.), from New

jfork, sailed Sept. 3u Snporior, barque, from Now York; sailed Ootober 23 Cabarfeidh, borquo (9.Q.M.J.), from Hongkong Himalaya, barque (V.T.K.M), Irom London;

IMPORTS.

Per A. C. de Froltas, from London

108 cases galvanised corrugated iron, 1,401 bare iron, 291 bundles Iron, 2 caaes patent horse nails, 40 kegs patent wrought nails, 33 Segs patent chilled shot, 70 kens fencing stables, 40 cast furnace boilers, 2 hhds patont charcoal box irons, 7 cases onamellod jaw boxes, 1 case forn hooks, 1 bale pump leather, 42 bundles Lyndon's spades. 48 cooking stoves, 8 casks stoves, 4 cases stoves, 3 bundles stovea, 9 garden rollers, 1 case emery cloth, 2 cases glass paper, 2 cases knife powder, 5 oases wooq screws, 1 cask Brunswick Slack, 2 cases kerosino cooking stovea, 501 camp ovons and covers, 15G 3 legged pots, 6 frames boiler-felt, 13 casks general ironmongery.—T. and a. Morrin.

10 cases sporting gunnower. 22 owt chilled Bhot, 20 ewt soft shot.—W. H. Hazard.

Per Margaret Galbroith, from London: 118* bara iroD, 152 bundles iron, 2 bales navy canvas. 12 packages patont steel fine harrows, 1| cask oleotro-plated spoons and forks, 3 coses machinery.—T. and a. Morrin.

Per Marrnret Galbraith, from' London:—loo cases paraffine candles, 15 caeo3 vo«as, 6 hhds hollowars, 20 cases ling.—T. H. Hall and Co.

Per Margaret Galbraith, from London;— 2 caßes Morioy"s hosiery, knitting cottonß, winsor scarves, umbrellas, dieasing gowns, Szc.—J. M. McLacblan.

7 cases percussion cap?, cartridges, cartridge cases, wadding.—W. U. Hazard.

Per Catherine Jane, from Melbourne—3ooo eacks boncdust.

250 tons bone dust, 50 tons bone flour.—W. S, Laurie.

Per Loch Urr, from London :—1 caso cart ridge cases and bulletted caps, 20 cases sporting gjunpowder.—W. H. tiuzara.

Per Anthons, from Oamaru— IS2 bags bones. 352 sacks oats, US packages paper, 13 cases meats, 813 bans produce. HL'O packages flour, 80 bags bran, and 14 bags pollard.

Per Beatrice Havener, from New York:— 16,294 cases kerosene, and 300 barrels resin.

Tho Anthons left Oamaru on tho lUh, with Kght N.K. wind, wirich lasted till reaching the East Cape on the 21st, N.w. and S.VV. windß thence till arrival.

The Union Co.'s s.s. Rotorua left for South at noon to-day with the following passeDgera:— For Glsborne—Messrs Stuart, Paul, and 11 natives. For Napier—Miss Pall, Mrs Gow, Mr» and Miss Evinson, Miss Mann, Ma3ter Kvirsra, Ferries, and Thorpe. For Wellington—ivirs Graham, Mrs Taylor, H. Petersons. Mr and Mrs W. Smith, Kobson, W. Fidler, Mrs Torrence, Mr Cairns, and Mr W, Hart. For Lyttelton— Mrs Hopcrottand child, and Messrs H. West, A. Welby, Bnrrett, and Groesteck. For Port Chalmers—Miss Keidle, Mrs Tisdall, Miss Jones, and Mr G. Perril. ifor Melbourne—Messrß Uoyd, G. W. Baldwin, Lewis, VV. Cameron, Smith, and M, David.

ARRIVAL OF THE BEATRICE HAVENER.

The American barque Beatrice Havener arrived to-day. She left Now York on Septem ber 30th Ha-I variable winds from New York to the equator, crossing Novemter 11th, in long 30 #59 W. Then took the S.E. trade winds, hold ing them to 29- m. lat.; then variable and westerly winds tohe remainder of passage. Passed Cape Good Hope Dec. Bth; passed Island St. Paul Dec. 24th ;pas; od soutnern end of Tasmania Jan. 14th, having been detained one week with heavy easterly gale; sighted the Three Kings Jan. 23rd. Had light variable winds up the coast with pleasant weather. All hands well. We are indebted to Capt. J. Havener for the aboye report.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Lalla Rookh, p.s., Campbell, from Waitara

DEPARTURB3. Colonist, sohooner. Bailey, for Waitara

PORT OF KAIPARA

Departures, Jan. 28:—Fairlie, barqnAitine, Norris, for Sydney; China, barquentine, Mor rison, for Melbourne; Sissy, schooner. Car michael, for Port Chalmers.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Port Chaimrrb, Jan. 26. Arrived: S.s. Te Anau, from Melbourne, via Hobart Town and the Bluff.

Russell, this day. Arrivals: Golden Isle, Mariner, Eleanor, Gipssy, and Waitaki. sailed: Waitaki, for Auckland. Passengers: Captain and Mrs Watling, J. Clarke, Bindon, Cooper, Donaldson, Joyce, Poaceck, Captain Watts, Mrs Bindon, undone prisoner.

THE WEATHER.

AS OBSERVKD AT TELEGRAPH STATIONS

January 27, 1880.

I'c. unaunoir ft.v. ■•■ hhud. m.v Bluff- E. L. i9.50j(i38. C—Calm Frßn^FreilTßroeze li.-Light S,t.—Stormy Br.—Breeze 6.—Gale (2.) ANKROID BAROMETER. (3.) TVEATHER ESTIMATED AS B.—Blue sky, be the at- O.—Overcast,the whole mospheie clear or sky covered, with heavy thick clouds C. — Clouds, passing P.—Passing showers clouds Q.—Squally D.—Drizzling rain K. — .Rain, continued F.—Foggy rain Q. — Bloomy, dark B.—Snow weather T.—Thunder H.-Hail U.-Ugly, threatening L.—Lightning I appearance

Mail Notice.

Mails will. Cijo&k as Undkii i Friday. 28« i instant. For Tairua, per Mana, at a a.m, jfor Whangarel Heads and Whangarol, per Waitaki, at 9 a.m. For Waiheke and Coromandol, !per Coro mandol, at 10.31) a.m. For Thames, per Rotomahnna, at 10.30 a.m. For Thames, per Kntorprino, at 11 a.m. For Whangarol Heads, Waipu, Whangarei, and Mangapai, per Argylo, at 4 p.m. For Norfolk Inland, per Spoodwoll, at J p.m. Saturday, 29th instant, For Waiwera, Mahurann:!, Matakana, Manga wai, (ilo., per llosa Casny, at 10 a.m. H"or Tairua, per Robo, at I p.m. For Waltara, por Lalla Kookh, at 4.30 p.m. For Thames, per Ilototnuhana, at 5.30 p.m. Tcksday. lat February. For Taranaki and Southern porta, per Wanaka, at 8 a.m. 1 Por b.b. Australia aa follows :— For Sandwich Islands, Unltod Statos of America. Canada, British Columbia, Oontral and South Amorica. and British and Foreign West Indios, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continont of Europe, at 1 p.m. For money orders, roistered lottors, and nowspapors, at 11.30 a.m. Late lottors boarlng an extra fee or sixpenoe. In addition to tho postage, will bo received by tho Mail Agent 011 board tho steamer up to the timo of Bailing. Tni» mail will bo duo in London on Tuosday, Maroh 15. S. B. BISS, Chlof Postmaster. Chlof POBt-ofllco, Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

January 27th, 1881,

Tbcatro Royal- Kotton'e Pianoforto Kccital, 8 p.m.

Y,M.C.A.-Dovotional mcotini?, 7 30 p.m. St Paul's—Annual parish meeting, 7 30 p.m. Masonic Hall, Newton—Court Nil Dospo randum, A.0.F., 8 p.m. Drill Shod—No. 3 company; to tako numbers of rifles not yot given in, 7 30 p.m.

Birth.

CPIPPKN.—On January 20th, (it hor residonco, ViiK-..'.nt-Btreot, tho wifo of Fred. 11. Lrippon, of a daughter.

HUGH US.—At The Pharmacy, Puko-stroot, (timhr'dgo. Waikato, Mra Alfred G. Hughes, of a daughter.

Marriage.

GRA.NGKR-BARTON.-On Dooembor 24,1550, at the hou»o of tho bride's father, by tho Roy. I). W. RuncimaD, M.A., Thomas Urungor to Margaret human Barton, oldest daughter of Mr Henry Barton, of tho Htak offlco.

Death.

CRIPPKN.—On January 25th, Annie, infant daughter of F. H. Crippen,

Notices to Correspondents.

J. W.—A will, no matter whoro made, holds good until it ia ;superceded by ono executed subsequently by tho testator. T. Clkary (Panmure).—lf the lady is a house holder sho was entitled to voto for tho election of the school committee—not other wise.

R. G. Bryant (Cambridge).— Apply to tho Clown Land* Commissioner. Auckland, from whom the information was obtained. C.X.—Your letter is libellous, and its publica tion would oiDOsejou and tho paper 10 Dro senution. If your st»tem»nU aro well founded lay them before tho Presbytoty, which is tho proper authority to deal with tho matter.

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

THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 1831.

For the cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future in the distance, And the good that we car. dc.

The discussion at the meeting of Gram mar-school Governors yesterday, which we report fully in another column, should be carefully read by all who take an interest in education. Judge Fenton, upon whose motion the question of Grammar School reform was raised, in an excellent speech established as the fundamental basis of his procedure, that the school needs reform. This posi tion was not seriously disputed even by those who witheld their assent from the motion submitted for adoption. By an array of facts that is perfectly everwhelming, Mr Fenton proved, what we have over and over again contended, that the results obtained in this school are ridiculously disproportionate to the means at its command. The institution has no reputation in the colony, and we find Nelson College and other schools which do not possess any inherent advantage over our own College attracting the sons of Auckland citizens, to whom we might reasonably look to win laurels for themselves and the College in their native city. When Governors of the school themselves are sending their boys away the out look is a serious one indeed. Consider ing that Auckland College has had the benefit of all the capable boys who have won scholarships in the common schools, its lamentable failure to give brilliant results cannot do otherwise than occasion surprise as well as regret that its rich endowments have borne so little fruit. Ab Mr Clark and some other members of the Board observed yesterday the causes of failure may be other than those assigned by Mr Fenton. No doubt many agencies have been at work to produce the result which we deplore— and among these the want of a board ing-establishment in connection with the school has unqestionably exercised an unfavourable influence. But we think less of the failure itself than its persistency. Years ago it was shown that the only hope of the school was re form, andyet every amendment has been resisted with a persistence that is dis heartening. And it is always so much easier to sit down and rest and speculate on causes than to wrestle with a public grievance which yields nothing but personal ill-feeling, that we might wait in vain for many years to come for anyone determined enough, capable enough, and public-spirited enough, to take the busiriess in hand. Indeed, the path is by no means clear, for even where so much unanimity exists as appears to prevail within and without the Board of Gover nors with respect to the necessity for change, opinions will always differ regarding its character and extent. Where, then, are we to find anything sufficiently authoritative to command confidence? We think Judge Fenton was not unreasonable in pointing to the report of the Royal Commission, which is the work of experts after months of careful investigation, as not merely the only available guide, but as the very one that would have been chosen if it had been left to the Board to arrive at its conclusion by the slow and laborious process of preliminary investigatien. We do not agree with Mr Fenton's mode of selecting from the Commis sioners' recommendations. A more comprehensive digest of the report of the Commission might have been prepared, the adoption of which by the Board of Governors would have deprived the decision of that personal .character which it assumed, and which w&s intensified by insinuations of ao'inyis made by some of the speakers which were uncalled for and unwarranted. It may, however, be urged,in, explanation of the form which Judge .Fentpn ,chose in order to bring the recommendpqions of the Royal Com mission regnlarly-before the Governors *hat his steps were hedged and shaped by <Uae attitude which a section of the , Board.adopted towards the discussion in J the outset.- The course for the fu ture, however, is plain. Any measures

•which the Board may adopt in pur suance of the course they have now fairly entered on, should be strictly regulated V>y the authority they have already chosen as their guide. If the Report of the Royal Commission receives its due weight, 'we shall soon see our school take its proper place among the secondary schools of the colony.

A full report of the Masonic banquet appears on our fourth page.

"Fair Play" writes complaining that a game of chance was allowed at the Railway employes' picnic, while " a peor deserving man wus refused permission to use nn equnli sator on the ground, which the world knows is a genuine, economical and reasonable sport."

We learn that the Uev. Kichaitl Jones haft resigned his pastorate of tho Baptist Church at l'ousonby, and intends leaving for Adelaide, South Australia, in the early part of April noxt.

Tho members of the Independent Order of Free Templars will be glad to learn that a Lodye of the Order will be instituted in the Masonic Hall, Newton, at an oarly date. Intending members are requested to give in their names to any of tho olhcern. Due notice of opening the Lodge will be given by advertisement in tho Star.

Tho llobson Corps have arranged for their isnth annual picnic at the Tnmnki on Regatta Day, and have chartered the b.s. Kotomnhanafor tho occasion, which will start from tho Queen-street Wharf.'precisely at 9 a.m. The tickets include refreshments etc. Music and every other facility for thorough enjoyment will bo providod.

Two banners havo been embroidered by the Misses Teutenberg from designs of tho Key, W. Tcbbs for the Sunday-schools of St. Matthew's and St. Thomas. They arc on view at the shop in Queen-street, and will be used for tho first timo on Saturday at the annual festival in the Domain. Many ladies'and gentlemen's names appear amongst tho subscribers.

Tho prizes which were won at tho Christ mas examination of tho scholars at the Northcote Public School will be presented to-morrow (Friday) evening by the lli.shop of Auckland. An attractive programme has been prepared, and as several gentlemen who take a great interest in educational matters are to bo present, tho meeting will probably be a great success. A boat will loave Queen-street wharf at 5.10 p.m., re turning from Northcoto at 9.33 p.m.

To the Editor : Sir,—lt would be well worth the public's knowing by what ratiocination tho Council arrived at the precise sum of £10, being tho- value of ii landscape gardener's time, ability, and taste, as perEviiNiNU STAB, January 19th, in the Municipal notico " For laying out and planting the Albert I'ark," and with tho probability of n dozon competitors.— 1 am, &c, J. il. Stkange.

Richmond Park, Mr Aitken'n property, with its green pastures, hears tho same comparison to the Karalca hinds, by which it is surrounded, as au oasis does to the desert. On this fertile oasis nuiy now be seen, not camels, but numerous prize Lincoln nuns from several of our best Hocks, sent out to grnze at Richmond Park, in order to put ilcsli on them, and to bring them forward to the best advantage.

Edward Alfred Drury, who described himself as a "professed journalist," failed in getting even two of his numerous friends to become sureties for him. Even his solicitor considered that Mount Kdeu was the safest place for an orator who was uuable to conduct himself with propriety in public Court. Mr Drury was therefore conveyed to prison with the inebriates and others, a course to which be violently objected as unworthy i> man of his legal and journalistic experiences.

As will be seen by advertisement, the delegates from the different Friendly Societies, re the proposed demonstration on 17th March next, will meet tomorrow (Friday) evening at a quarter to eight, in the Young Men's liooms. As business of importance is to be brought forward, a largo attendance is for.

"A Sailor" writes objecting to the custom of employing Kanakas on vesicls engaged in the island trade. 110 says he has been waiting four months for an engagement on such a vessel without suc cess, owing to the native competition.

Upon lurrikiuiaui at Pousouby a corres pouiieut writes: "There is a number of boys whose behaviour is a discredit to the neighbourhood. The fathers of tonic of these boys are sea-faring men who appa rently are bringing their sons up to believe that' might is right.' As there seems an absence of all gentlemanly feeling on the part of these youths, it would be as well if tho pojice occasionally walked tound tho beach in order to keep them in check."

The Oxford, with tho remaining portion of Mr U. V. Stewart's No. I) party, leit Loudon on December 2 for the Bay of Plenty. There are in all Soistatute adults, or 100 souls. The party would doubtless have been much larger could tho departure of the vessel have been delayed until after Christmas, but just now, when the festive season L- upon uk, there is a disinclination on the part of Englishmen to leave their native homes. There is uo doubt that, as soon as the New Year opens, another and a. larger party will quickly be got together to join thnso who aro now on. their way to Mr Stewart's new settlement.—English paper.

Sergeant Francis of tho Christchurch City Guards won the Challenge Belt with a score ot 48.

A short distance down the river below Helensville there is a hot spring, the tem perature of the water being so high that when Mr Hankey, the manager of the rail way, took a "header" therein be came quickly to the surface, yelled out that he was scalded, and on being restored once more to terra lirma he was found to be in a par-boiled state. The spring is near the river, so that with proper appliances the heat could easily be mitigated to suit the requirements of the bather. It is said that the temperature of the spring is greatly affected by the ebb and flow of the tide, and that the assistant manager tried, the springs at the ebb, but that "he'1 iluwed very rapidly out again. It reports are true, this discovery of the spring is of value, The Government have decided to survey tke waste lands adjacent, and rcßerve this sanatorium pro bono publico. An enterprising gentleman has .already made an offer to lease the spring for a term of years and erect baths.

11 A.V.H." writes attributing the agitation for the substitution of Monday for Saturday as the holiday to tradesmen. He says :— " If there is a chance for the employes of getting a long and weary business day con verted into a holiday, our most respected citizens strive hard to deprive the former of the same. I cannot see why Saturday is an awkward day for a holiday, unless some shopkeepers think they will be a few shil lings short, which is really in the long run not the case. That Saturday night 12 o'cloclc business is no joke. I only wondsr why they do not keep open till Sunday morning; and some of our foremost religious advocators too. All the business that is done on Saturday night is not worth talking about, and can practically be done in the afternoon if a good and humane public would be at all willing to assist us."

Xo the Kditor : Sir, — Can you afford space to decide the following question, which, strange to say, appears to some minds to afford room for argument :—During the recent race in Melbourne between the yachts Taniwha and Janet, a cablegram was received to the followine effect "Wind light. Taniwha seven minutes' behind." A subsequent message stated: " Wind|has freshened ; Taniwha ha-Vgained five miuutes ;" thereby of course losing the race by only two minutes. Now inasmuch as it may be presumed that the freshening of the wind would equally affect the speed of both boats, is it Dot possible that, although the Taniwha thereby gained five minutes' on that time she would otherwise Jhave done the race in had the wind not freshened, yet she may not have lessened the actual distance that seperated her from the Janet,|whcnthe|latter passed the pont. This ss, of course, assuming that the Janet did not purposely slacken speed after passing the post.—l am, &c, Confident.

The "New Zealand Volunteer Service Gazette," of January 15th, contained much original and selected matter; not the least interesting, being Mr KiDglake's ' apology,' including reminiscences of the Crimean War, selected from the writings not only of the author of "Eothen," but from the recollections of W, H. Kussell, the Earl of Ellenborough, the Duke of Newcastle, and others. The editor considers it would be well for the volunteers in the different districts to interview their respective Parlia mentary representatives and come to some understanding with them as to what they intend doing in reference to the forco when Parliament meets ? It is a notorious fact that during last session when any question affecting the force came before the House the volunteer members were nearly always absent, especially when the capitation grant was reduced. The "Gazette" is a very creditable production, and recommendable, althocgh readers are not informed as to whether or not there are any volunteers in Aupkland. We would advise our volun teers to contribute to the "Gazette," and report progress

An error occurred yesterday in our report of the Auckland Rifle A sedation directing referenco to tlic distribution of money piizM, The amounts in each match should have read Ist 355. ; 2nd 25a. ; and 3rd 20s.

Some of the farmers at Friday's market complained bitterly of the damages they had experienced through the late unseason able weather. Acres of early oaten hay have been rendered quite unfit for anything else but beddiug for horses. Wheat which promised well, instead of ripeninc up has posi tively started to grow afresh while in the stalk. Potatoes have in many iustancesjalso suffered considerably. More dry weather than we have had wt»s required for harvest ing purposes. Late crops will have the best of it.

A number of drapers announce its another column their intention to keep their shops opon to-morrow (Friday) night, and close all Saturday (ltcgatta Day). Wo are informed that there was not time to see all the trado in time to get the advertisement published to-night, but it is expected that this solution of the holiday question will be generally adopted.

The guests invited by Mr B. Kane to his annual picnic at Kawakawa,left en Monday by the i.s. Kina, which steamer was specially chartered for the occasion the party will return on Saturday next, a week being tho time devoted to this evcut, which is spout iv the vicinity of a splendid shelly beach, and amid some peach proves, tons of fruit from which rot on the ground every year, notwithstanding tho largo quantities consumed, preserved in tins and brought away by the numerous visitors. Thore is lino lishing ground thcro. Last year fivo of tho party caught 145 in three quarters of an hour. Mr Kaue's property is very exten sive, as may bo judged from tho fact that three men were occupied two years in fencing the two Bides of it. Last year a lino mob of fat cattle wcro drivon to the Auckland market, realising very satisfactory prices. This year tho excursionists are to have abundance of timt accommodation iv addition to tho two houses. One tent to be takeu down to-day will hold 300 people.

All old rcßidont of Chaucory Lano named Gamble, possessing «omo property in that salubrious locality, mot with an accident this morning while crossing from tlio Public Library atops to tho bur of the Auckland Hotel, iieing partly intoxicated, tho old man stumbled over tho stones mid tell or. his face, but, strange to say, without break ing his beer jug. Detective Jcli'roy mid Constable McClellan raiMcd tho prostrato man, and finding him incapable of self- Hiipport assisted him to tho stutiou, while McClellan'u dog walked behind, as ordorly as v mute, carrying Gamble's hat in liin mouth tv theamuncment of the nyutandura, MrR Gamble shortly came up, and expressed her grntilicatiou at seoingtho unbroken jug, but paid no attention to the old man's face, which wns sadly bruised. "Ah," she said, " this little brown jug has served mo and Gamblct theso forty years, and I hope it will last our tune, which won't bo long, Wo can't Htiuid the drink as wo used to do. Wo are getting old—very old."

On Tuesday evening last the teachers of the Dovonpcrt Wecleyan Sunday-school and their friuiuist uad a social gathering and tea in tho Church. Thcro were about thirty persons present. After ample justice had been done to the viands a meeting wuh held to bid "good-bye" and present Mr W. Kimcy (late superintendent), who is leaving the district for Auckland on account of faillug'.hoaUh, with a gift, in tho shape of a book, as 11 token of their esteem aud good willas their latesupeiintondciu and member of the church. Tho presentation was made by Mr Cox, sen. (superiuteudcut-olect), who expressed regret at the losing of Mr Kinsey aud family from their midst. Messrs Bur nett aud Hooker also spoke to the good qualities of Mr Kinsey as their late super intendent anil member of the church, and roaretted his removal, trusting, at the same time, that it will prove beneficial to bis health, Mr Kinsey replied feelingly, and said he thanked those present lor the kinducss they had shown him on his leaving them, aud that he would prize the book as a memento and token of their esteem and respect wborevor ho may bo located. Tho meeting was interspersed with singing. A large number remained, and hud a social amusement, which, to all appearance, they enjoyed.

No. 20 of the Observer, ready To-mor row (Friday), contains a Coupon (or tho Valu ablo (and llnal) Prlzo Distribution, on February 16th ; also, a Portrait of Lord Beaconuflold; KtohlnKs of Harmck Hill boforo tho Lovoe, air William Fox, and Host Smith of tho Oouldontal Hotol. Iho reading matter includes " ltank ruptcy Considered as a Kino Art;" " ailonns 'at tho Loves; Tno Song of tho Coat; Kcgatla Notes ; Anhlapunlona; Hrycs'a Resignation ■

"That Party of|tho Niuno of Green ;" and all tho usual Social, Bportlng. and Thoatricaj Gossip.—(Adtt.)

A public difficulty had arisen through Saturday being a partial holiday, bnt wo aro glad to »cc that tho Provision Company liuvo boen equil to tho occasion, and a. DotUuij- asks ua to lntlnmto through our columns that ho vlll hold a solo this wook, at tho Central Stall. City Market, on Friday as well as Saturday, bo that Cuftomors need exporienoo no disappointment. Thoro will bo some very lino Dairy Fed Mams cut up, and sold at bacon pricos, namely 9ti per lb.—(Advt.)

The Rev. W. Lambert, 8.A., intimates (by udvortiSßtncnt) that ho is conitnonclDf? &n evening preparatory olass for boys at the Church of England Grammar School, Parneil.

Mr Carter's coaches will in future run dally from Hamilton to the To Aroha Gold- Hold?.

Mr C. B. Andrew intends commencing his dancing class again to-morrow oventng. See advertisement.

Sergeant Major Haslam notifies to mom ben of No. 3 Company that ho will be in attend anco at tho Drill-shed this evening from 7.30. to 8. 30., for the purposo of takiocr the numbora of rifles not yotgivou In to the ofllcor commanding tbe district.

Tho quarterly licensing court for the districts of Takapuna, Waitakerel. City of Auckland, Nowton. and Parnoll, will be hold on Tuesday next, in the Court-house, Hlgh-Btroot, at 12ocIock, noon.

The members of the Sir Henry Havelock and other lodgos of Good Templars under tho constitution of Now Zealand, will hold a plontc on llegatta Day, in tho public reserve North Shore; atartlnK from tho Ferry Teoat 9 30. a.m., and returning at 5 p.m. Tho particulars will bo found In an advortlsomont relating to tho projected plcuio.

SCINTILLATIONS.

"Bo brief; tor v is w eh words as with the beams: the morj they aro condensed, the deeper they burn."—SouTHicr.

Tho two-storey house in Karangahape Road between the Jewish cametery and Mr Belcher's, fetched £320 at Mr Binncy's salo yesterday.

Mr James O'Connor was admitted to the hospital yesterday, having suffered injury to hm eyes by the discharging of a shot of powder at Tairua.

A cablegram dated London, January 24th, received in Dunedin, says :—" Trade shows no improvement. Prospects not good."

New Plymouth harbour works arc to begin at last, tho 7th of February being fixed for laying the foundation stono. When will it be finished ?

Tho Christchurch Property Reviewers are sitting in private.

The Taukau school children had afgrand annual treat and sport?. Messrs Harris, M.H.R., and family were present. Dancing was one of the amusements at the soiree to celebrate tho opening of the handsome Presbyterian Church at Kauka paknpa. The Key. Messrs Bruce, Sommer villo, and Smeaton were present. All Presbyterian parsons, therefore, cannot entertain the same scruples on the subject as the pastor of St. James.

A large hotel is to be erected at once at Messrs McLean's new township of Oxford, on the Kotorua Road, Mr Madigan is the contractor.

The fruit-srealers from Uol. DeQuincey's garden, Hamilton, were fined 17s 9d each with a warning that similar offences in future would be treated with imprisonment. The steamer Delta leaves Hamilton on Saturday for an excursion to tho Waikato Heads, extending over Monday should sufficient inducement offer.

A meeting of officers of the Waikato Volunteer Cavalry held at Ohanpo resolved to hold a review at Te Awamutu at Easter, and to invite Volunteers from all parts of the Provincial District. It was also agreed to ask the Government for tents for an en campment of 1,000 men expected. The total winnings of Robert the Devil during his turf career amount in the aggregate to £20,920. Mr Brewer gave 2500 guineas for him at the close of his two year-old career. As a three-year-old he has won £18,647, so that the owners of the horse made a good investment.

A wealthy manufacturer of Connecticut having built an elegant mansion, and wish ing to take a second wife, said to his archi tect," Which agrees best with brick and brown stone, a brunette, or a blonde 1" A Wellington rat saw a mussel on the Whßrf, with its shells open, and, expecting no doubt to get a dainty morsel, thrust his paw in, whereupon the mussel instantly closed hard and fast, Dot only making the rat a prisoner but causing him to "sing out" in a way that soon attracted notice and led to his destruction.

That favourite vocalist Miss Alice May is now at the Globe, playing with much success Simone in the new and very popular comic opera called "The Mousquetaires." It is a capital opera, full of fun, and teeming with bright and cheerful music.

POLICE COURT.-This day.

(Before X, C. Baratow, Esq., K.M.) DRUNKENNESS.

Margaret Barristow, Mary Brown, and John Knox, were subjected to the usual penalty for drunkenness.

DESERTING

Alexander McCamish was brought up on a charge of deserting from the schooner " Queen," on the lat November last.

Sergeant Gamble said tbe boy was ap prenticed from the Naval Training School, and the case came under that Act. The prisoner had previously deserted and ob tained employment with a batcher in town.

Fristoner pleaded guilty. Captain Jones, of the Queen, said the father and mother of the boy had been con tinually on board influencing the boy to desert.

Mrs McCamishl said her poor boy was ill, and when he went back the vessel was gone. His Worship severely censured the conduct of the parents, whose demeanoui and conduct were anything but creditable to them.

The boy said he was willing to go back to the vessel and do his duty. His Worship ordered the boy to be sent back to tho Queen, and endorsed the dentures to tho eil'ect that prisonor's time be extended three months, the time lost to the captain by his absence,

CITY KATE CASES.

The Town Clerk informed the Court that those eases had all been settled excepting that or Matthew Henderson, for which repeated applications had been unsuccessful.

Mr Eller, collector of rates, proved that Mr Henderson was indebted to tbo amount of 15s for property in Victoria-atreet. That notices had boon duly served upon him, and frequent applications made for tho money without oftbet.

Judgment for plaintiffs with costs, FRUIT STEALKRS,

Philip Alcock (15), Charles Alcock (9), mid Edward Potoky (9), were charged with robbing tho orchard of Mr James iiliick, of Wolleslcy-street, uud stealing fruit there from, valuo 10», oil tho 22nd January. Tho boys pleaded guilty.

{Serycant Uamblo stated t.hat the boys liud been inmates of tho Indiwtriul School, but had absconded. They wore subse quently found iv Mr Black's garden gather ing fruit.

His Worship : I believe thero arc other boys to bo charged with a similar oflencc.

Sergeant Gamble : Yes, your Worship. John lierghstrom (9) and John Irneen (12) were brought up on two charges of fruit- Klottling : 1, with stealing plums, &c, 2a. from the garden of Mr C. Spurgoon. 2, with stealing apples, &c.—ls, on tho 25th January, the property of Joseph Grant, Jiergliitroiii pleaded guilty to stealing the fruit, and Irneen to devouring a portion on tho premises.

Tho boys Philip Alcock and John Irneen confessed to severul previous convictions for larcenies.

His Worship said tho wholesale robbery of orchards must be stopped. It appeared from the teachings of the Bible, that the sin of our first parents consisted in stealing (ruit from tho Garden of Eden, which not had entailed so much misery on tho human family, The sin of fruit stealing Hoeiiis to have been a human failing ever since, and likely to be perpetuated to the end of time. The sentence upon Phillip Alcock would be three months' imprison ment with hard labour ; upon John Irulln, fourteen days and a Hogging.

Prisoner : I've had a whipping before, sir.

His Worship : Yes, and I hope the second will he a sounder one.

His Worship said these younger boys would be sent back to the school, an this appeared to bo their first offence, but if they came before the Court on a second charge, they would aisuredly go to prison.

MRS STANLEY AND HKlt SONS. William Edward, and Frances Stanley, were charged with failing to contributo to wards tho maintenance of their mother, Mary Ann Stanley, she being in destitute drcumatanccH.

Mary Ann Stanley deposed that she had been a widow for 9 yean. She had several children depending upon her, and was uuable to support thorn. Her eldest «m Win. Edward, was a plumber and gailitter, earning good money. lie had recently got married. Her son Francis was living at Hamilton, but she did not know how he was circumstauced.

His Worship made an order upon \V. E. Stanley to contribute 6a per week towards tho support of his mother, no order being made upon the other son until bis circum stances are known.

This was all the business,

THE COLONIAL BANK.

I PER TRESS ASSOCIATION.]

DUNEDIN, Wednesday. At the thirtconth half-yearly meeting of tho Colonial Batik held to-day, the Hon. G. McLean (Chairman), in moving tho adoption of the report, said that on the present occasion he inißht say that if ho could only congratulate the shareholders as well on the profits an on tho itatement of the baok'i position or on the account he would take pleasure in so doing, because it would be seen from the bank's accounts that their business aa formerly had been very favour able, and was just now in a sound and pros perous condition. So far as the reduction of dividend from 8 per cent, to 6 per cent., or from 4 per cent, to 3 per cent, for the half year, was concerned, that was accounted for by various reasons, and was not to be attri buted to bad debts particularly duriug the half-year. Tho Chairman then defended the back's action in declining to take large deposits which wore only put in tempoiarily to secure interest, and could bo subsequently withdrawn, but said they were willing to take any amount if for proper investment. He thought thero was a prospect of an early expansion of the bank's business in New Zealand, and was sure it would give as much pleasure to tho director* to pay larm dividends as it would be for the shareholders to receive them. The report was adopted. —Mr D. J. M. Litrmich was elected a director..—Mr C. B. Cargill, in moving a vote of thanks to the directors aud officers, said it must he satisfactory to know that the bank's position was very safe, and that it was prepared to enter into business to tho very jest advantage as soon as a revival of trade took place. It was a most important matter that the bank should have a position of strength and stability. Tho epeaker, in conclusion, suggested that at no distant date the question of amalgamation with the National Bank should be considered.—The Chairman said, us far as tho subject of amalgamation wan concerned, he supposed they wcro all agreed that tho principal ollicer should be in New Zealand, still, that was a question which should not be dis cussed tiiere.

AUSTRALIAN CRICKETERS.

(BY TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

TIMARU, yesterday. Thk weather for the first day of the match Australians v. Twenty-two of South Canter bury was magnificent. The Australians' captain winning the toss, sent his men in. Captain Dundasacted as unpire for South Canterbury, and Mr W. H. Attack tor the Australians. Spofforth and Groube went in first, facing the bowling of A»hby and Kothwell. The first innings of tho Aus tralians closed for 218 at half-past 5 o'clock, they having becn|at the wickcte|for about three hours and a half. At 5. 50., Godby and Jones went to the wickets against the bow ing of Spofforth. The scores were :— AUSTKALIANS.—FIRST INNINGS. Spofl'orth, c Boyd, b Ashby ... 11 Groube, run out ... 11 Murdoch, c Hughes, b Blundell ... 32 McDonnell, b Ashby 1 Slight, b Ashby ... 0 Jarvis, c Fraser. b Ashby 28 Boyle, b Eothwell ... 48 Blackham b Kothwell 6 Palmer, not out 39 Alexander, c Verity, b Godby ... 22 White, c Fowler, b Blundell ... 1 Byes, 13 ; leg-bye, 1 ; wides, 5 ... 19 Total... 218 SOUTH CANTERBURY.—FIRST INNINGS. Godby, b Spofforth 0 Jones, b Spofforth ... ... ... o Reuben, not out go Jefterson, c Boyle, b Spoffortk ... 0 Ashby, c White, b Spofforth ... 0 Raymond, not out l Leg-bye i Total for 4 wickets 2 This day. Play between the Australians and South Canterbury was resumed at noon; Jarvis wicket-keeper. Palmer opened the bowling, and clean bowled Raymond: s—l—B. i Hughes walked in and out. Wright was dismissed : B—o—B. Spofforth took Fow ler's middle stump s 9-8—22.

A school-teacher recently electrified her pupils, who were annoying her with ques tions : " Children, I am engaged." Noticing the general look of astonish ment, she added, "But not to any fool of a man," and the excitement died away.

TELEGRAMS.

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

GRAHAMSTOWN, this day.

The Hape Creek district is attracting considerable attention since the County determined to make a road along it to enable quartz to be brought down.

FOUL AIR IN THE NORTH DEVON

The want of air in the North Devon is a serious impediment. The Inspector refuses to allow the men to work in ih» Bendigo adit until the air is improved. A candle will hardly burn, and it cannot be lighted in the level such is the condition of the air. A trial crushing of one ton of stone from Niccoll's find at Maihi was crushed at the Smile of Fortune battery, Owharoa, for a yield of loz. ldwt. per ton. The owners of the claim intend calling for tenders for the conveyance of 50 tons to the same mill,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH AT TE

AROHA,

Steps have been taken by Rev. Bruce to establish a Presbyterian minister at Te Aroba, with control of the Upper Thames District. Committees have been formed at Paeroa and Te Aroha to further the object, and the Rev. T. Norrie, sou of the Key. Thos. Norrie of Papakura, is to be appointed to the spiritual charge of the district.

NEW PLYMOUTH, this day. SUDDEN DEATH. A man named Alexander Painter, a stonemason, died suddenly at the Harbour Works yesterday.

[PKlt I'RESS AGENCY.

NAPIER, this day,

THK GOVERNOR'S VISIT.

The Governor left Ohinemutu for Taupo this morning, and will arrive on Saturday evening. iioouiM at the Criterion Hotel have been engaged for him.

WELLINGTON, this day,

SUNDAY TRADING,

At the Resident Magistrate's Court this moniiug judgment was given in the cases againut the proprietors of the Commercial and Cricketers Arms Hotel, for Sunday trading. A line of £2 and costs was in- Dieted in each case.

SPORTING INTELLIGENCE.

WELLINGTON RACES,

WELLINGTON, Wednesday. The latest betting on the Wellington Cup is—Natator, 200 to ]00 taken, and wanted ; Libeller, 400 to 100 taken ; Volunteer, 100 to 8 offered ; Badsworth, 100 to 10 offered ; Lady Emma, 100 to 20 taken ; Hailstorm, 100 to 3 offered ; Un Dit, 100 to 16 offered ; Sir George, 100 to 8 wanted; The Governor, 100 to 6" offered; Luna, 100 to 15 taken ; Mischief, 300 to 5 offered ; Dan, 100 to 5 taken to win £1200 ; Virginia Water, 100 to 20 taken; Norseman, 100 to 10 offered; Kandwick, 100 to 10 taken,

The privclcgcs ol the course realised £fiOG, exclusive of grund stand, saddling paddock, fancy bazaar, totalisators, aud cards.

WESLEYAN CONFERENCE.

[I)V TKLKQBAI'II, OWN COKKIiSPONDENT.]

NELSON, ibis day.

The Wesleyan Conference has rejected the following candidates :— Mr Girling, homo mishionary,from Parnoll,and Mr Hall, from Timaru, solely on account of the medical certificate being unsatisfactory. Great sympathy is expressed with Mr Girling, who had not dreamt that he bad organic disease.

The report on tho Scandinavian Mission by the Key. Mr Williams, showed that Lutherauism had been introduced among the people ; that the Lutheran Minister showed great antipathy to the Methodists, and were proselyting.

The draft of the pastoral address, pre pared by the Key. Mr Bavin, was read and adopted.

The Conference soiree held in the Theatre was a great gathering, and was most suc cessful.

ST. STEPHEN'S CHURCH, PONSONBY.

The annual meeting of the members and adherents of this Church was held on Wednes day, the I()th instant. The attendance was not large, though the congregation was fairly represented.

The Committee's Report stated that this time last year possession had been taken of the new church, with a debt in round numbers of £1,021. In order to reduce this a winter course of lectures was given, which produced £lj. But the chief source of revenue for this purpose was the bazaar, which was a decided success, mainly owing to the self-denying labours of the ladies of the congregation, and the large cases of home-made articles received by Mrs. Runciman from friends in Scotland. The bazaar yielded £660, less expenses £36, making the nett proceeds £624, thus reducing the debt on the church to £400. Special men tion was made of those in charge of the stalls, viz., Mrs. Runciman, Mrs. Anderson, and Mrs. Stevenson. Nothing could exceed the zeal and enthusiasm with which all in connec tion with the church, and many friends outside, laboured to produce this gratifying result. The cordial thanks of the Committee were given to the Misses Mackenzie and Miss Morpeth for presiding at the harmonium, and to, Miss Peacock for attending to the service of praise at the Wednesday evening prayer-meet ing. The report stated that the Committee < contemplated fencing the church. The neces sary plans, &c, were prepared and laid before the meeting.

The report on the Sunday-school' showed that there had been a steady increase in the number of scholars during the year, the highest number in attendance being 126, the average 109, with 14 teachers. Additions had been made to the library, which now contained 276 volumes. Thanks were given to a member of the congregation who contributed an annual subscription to the Library Fund, and it was hoped that this good example would be fol lowed by others. The balance in hand at commencement of the year was £io 17s. 3d. ; amount subscribed, £25 us. 4d.; amount expended, £29 10s. 7d. ; leaving a balance to credit of £6 18s. A Bible-class for young ladies was conducted by the Rev. Mr. Runci man, and a class for young men by Mr. Pater son, with most satisfactory results. The report closed with an urgent cry for help in the matter of teachers, and an expression of gratitude to God for the measure of success which had attended past efforts.

The Treasurer produced an exhaustive state ment of the monetary affairs of the church, of which our space will only allow us to give the barest outline. The ordinary revenue of the church was shown to be £350 is. 7d., leaving a debit balance of Ss. 4d. But against this must be placed arrears of pew-rents, amounting to ,£l3 Bs., which would leave a balance due to Treasurer of £6 3s. 4d. Build ing Fund : Amount received from all sources, Bs. 3d.; amount borrowed, ,£850; total, £1,567 Bs. 3d. Expended, £511 17s. 5d.; amount of debt paid off church, ,£1,000; leav ing a credit balance of ,£55 10s. iod. The total amount of contributions from all sources during the year amounted to the handsome sum of j£i,O9i 14s. The following statement was also given of moneys raised for erection of the church with amount of debt on the pro -1 perty at 31st December, 1880:—Receipts from friends in England and Scotland per Rev. Mr. Runciman, £159 55.; donations in Auckland, p£447 r 3s. 6d.; special collection, opening services, £21; nett proceeds of bazaar, ,£624 Bs. id.; amount borrowed on security of church property, £450; making a total of £1,072 6s. 7d. Expenditure: Cost of site, etc-» 17s. iod. ; erection of church, £1,406 17s. lid.; church and vestry furni ture, £33; balance in cash and in bank, £$$ 10s. iod.; leaving a nett balance of debt on the church of £394 9s. 2d. The following gentlemen were elected on the Committee for the ensuing year:—Messrs. Field, Grey, Parsons, Ross, Wilson, and Wood. The meeting was closed with the benediction.

THEATRE ROYAL.

HENRI KETTEJS'S PIaNO RECITALS.

The third recital took place last night. Mr Ketten added fresh proof of his wonder ful capabilities as a pianist. The " Sonata Patbetique " (Beethoven) was an admirable performance, and the brilliancy •with which the rondo was executed surpassed all des cription. Chopin's compositions, as inter preted by Mr Ketten, are replete with grace and elegance 5 and Mr Ketten's own com positions go far to establish his reputation as a musician of the highest order. The grandest performance of all was the March from "Tannhauser" (Wagner). It |was superbly played. One could hardly believe that the combination of effects was being produced by one performer on a single instrument. Wober's " Invitation ala Valor" should also be specially mentioned as illustrating the performer's marvellous power. We observe an attractive programme for this evening, including Handel's " Har monious Blacksmith."

CABLEGRAMS.

IRKUTSK'S TELKQRAMS,

EUROPEAN

LABOUR RIOTS IN LANCASHIRE,

LONDON, January 26,

Renewed rioting has occurred in Lanca shire owing to the strike. Several serious collisions have taken place between locked out miners and the police.

VIOLENT SCENE IN HOUSE OF

commons.

In the House of Commons last evening, Mr Gladstone moved that the consideration of the Irish Coercive Bill should take prece dence of all other business. The Home Rule members thereupon proceeded to obstruct passage of the motion, aud a stormy scene occurred. Mr Biggar, who proved one of the most violent obstructionists, was re peatedly called to order by the Speaker. As he continued his disorderly conduct, he was " suspended "for the remainder of the sitting. The deDa'-e has now lasted many hours, but the Government are determined topasi the motion, and will make the sitting a continuous one, declining to adjourn until they gain their point.

JURY DISAGREE,

The trial of the Land-Leaguers was con cluded to-day. After the Judge's ciiarge to the jury, the latter retired, but after eight hours' deliberation they were unable to agree, and were then discharged. Mr Parnell subsequently delivered an oration to a large assemblage of people ;in Dublin.

LONDON MARKETS,

Consols have advanced to 99J. Adelaide wheat, ex wharehouse, is now quoted at 50s, being a decline of 6d on yesterday's price. New Zealand 5 per cents, have buffered a decline of §to 1 per cent. They are to-day quoted as follows:-10-40 loan, 102; 1889 ---loan, 107 J.

AUSTRALIAN.

RAILWAY ACCIDENT AT BALLAKAT.

MELBOURNE, January 26,

A perious accident has occurred to-day on tho lino near Ballarat, by which seven per sons have beeu badly injured.

It has been decided that the Exhibition shull remain open to the 30th of April next.

A company has been formed here to pur chase Mango Island, in the Fiji Group. The capital will be £100,000.

R.M. COURT.-This Day.

(Before J. E. McDonald, Esq.) JUDGMENTS FOR PLAINTIFFS.

In the following cases judgment went in favour of plaintiffs by default:- -Charles Kingsford v. Henry Ellis, claim £5 13s lOd, goods; Hichenbotuam v. Samuel Isaacs, claim £1 4s 6d, for goods supplied ; V. Jiindon v. Jas. McKwen, cluim £2 2s, goods supplied; Lawrence Cosgrave v. George Mills, claim £4 4s Bd, board and lodging, judgment for £3 Is, costs 3s.

JUDGMENT SUMMONS CASES.

George 11, Clarke v. Thos. Armstrong, adjourned for a month ; Malcolm Murchie v. James Johnßtone, claim £14 7», adjourned for a fortnight; Holland and Fortzer v. Frank Barber, claim £1 7s lid. Defendant said he had offered Mr Holland 2s 6d a week, but he refused it. He could pay la a week now. Ordered to pay 5s a week, and failing payment take 14 days in Mount Kden.

John Jenkins v. William Pollock. —Claim, £5 2s lid.—Mr Hesketh for plain till'.—Wm. Pollock being sworn deposed that he was a labourer. Was doing no work. Was living with his parents. It is about thrco years since he was working in Napier.—To His Honor: The debt is for some drapery ray wife received.—His Honor said the defendant was an able bodied man, and could send money to his wife, so he would have to send that money to his draper.—Ordered to pay the sum of 10s weekly or take one month's imprison ment.

ADJOURNED CASES,

Thos. Kelly v. Geo. Jobscu, plaintiff to pay costs; James Williamson v. John Maxwell; Kicuard Sandall v. liobert Cundall.

DEFENDED CASKS.

Holland and Foetzer v. Edjiond Cokns.—Claim, £24 9s 2d, goods supplied (Mr Edward Cooper appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr Hesketh for defendant).— Thomas Holland deposed that since the account was sent to Mr Corns he discovered that defendant had paid £3 on account, and the sum claimed was actually £21 9a 2d. Delivered thc|account to Mr Corns before he sent me this letter (produced) admitting owing the amount claimed. He was in town in January, and agreed to pay £5 a month out of every cheque received-—To Mr Hesketh: I have got letters acknow ledging the receipt of good*.—Mr Heiketh disputed an amount of £9 Ss 10.1, stated a balance ot account and all the goods charged aa supplied since January.—His Honor said the whole account up to januaiy was admitted by the defendant.—Judgment given by plaintiff for the full amount and costs.

H. "Webster y. G. Dukb.—Claim, £2 9s Gd, lease and occupation.—Mr Dnfaur appeared for the plaintiff.—G. Duke said he had never been asked for the money.— His Honor said it was the]debtor's duty to pay the creditor without asking.—Judg ment tor plaintiff, £2 9s 6d ; costs, £12s 6d. Jambs Reid v. Richard Ash.—Claim, 14s 9d. for goods—Mr Ueorge ap peared for plaintiff, andJMr Cooper for de fendant ■— James Reid deposed : The defendant is indebted to me to the sum of 14s 9d, for goods sold and delivered. 'Ihe defendant bought a sack of maize from me. He was to hare paid 2s 9d cash per bushel, or 3s per bushel for credit. The defendant did not pay for the maize.— There was 3j bushels in the sack. That would be 2101bs. The defendant's son might have carried the maize from my shop to the cart. Believe he could have earned another hundred-weight on top of it. The maize was weighed in the presence of the defendant. The defendant did not give me a sack in exchange.—Mr Edward Cooper said the defence consisted in the fact that the quantity chsrged for was not given, and the price agreed upon was not charged ; a sack was also given. There must have been some misunderstanding.—Mr George agreed to take a nonsuit as to the 7s 2d, costs 15s 6d.

SUICIDE AT THE ASYLUM.

INQUEST.

Tim inquest on the body of Mary Ann Wyatt, who committed suicide at the Auxiliary Asylum on Tuesday morning, was held yesterday afternoon at the Hospital before Dr. C. F. Goldsbro', coroner, aud a jury of twelvfi. Mr Witheford was chosen foreman.—The night nurse, Mary Ann Donaldson, deposed that the deceased was admitted into the Asylum in September last, and she was usually of a quiet dispo sition. On the night of her death, deceased appeared unusually cheerful, and retired to bed at 7 p.m. Deceased was a wet patient, and required to be taken out of bed periodically during the night. She (the nurse) went on duty at 9 p.m. on Monday, and attended to deceased. At 10 p.m. again got her out of bed. Saw her again at midnight, when she was lying quiet, aud did not disturb her. At 1 o'clock visited deceased and got her up, after which she returned to bed. On the morning of the 25th, a little after 3 o'clock went the rounds of the wards, deceased being the last person visited. Saw that deceased's bed was empty, and on looking towards the roof saw her suspended from the bracket of the ceil ing alongside of the bed. Obtained a pair of scissois and cut her down immediately. Found the body quite cold. Believed all the other patients in the same room were asleep. Deceased committed the deed by means of the hems of two sheets, which had been torn off, and a cotton pocket handkerchief. Never heard deceased threaten to take away her life. The length of rope from beam to knot on neck would be about 12 inches. Charles Alfred Cooper House-Surgeon of the Provincial Hospital gave as his opinion that the cause of death was strangulation. Evidence of a cor roborative nature was also given by Dr VoungandMrs Maria Martin, matron of the Asylum. The jury, after a short con sultation, returned a verdict "That the deceased committed suicide by hangiii" while in a state of insanity." *

Novelties in Furnishing Goods.-The „ Roval Axminster " Carpet with handsome border just landed, rich in appearance, and as soft as a Turkey Carpet; tho " Worcester" StairCarpe? 1^ 8 entirely mado of horsehair, prettily •haded border, and is the most durable carpet for stairs ever made, and at a lower price than Brussels: Handsome Coverings for Drawing room Suites just opened by Garlickand Cran well;these Coverings aro proof against moths an, d. h»ye a pretty around-work of silver old roW colour, etc., etc.: Handsome Half-Tester Bedsteads now cm. view. Tho greateßt variety of Bedsteads in Auokland to select from. All kinds of Household furniture at very low prices, and 5 per cent, discount allowed for cash at tl.e of purchase. This firm carry on S Drapery and 0 othing business o» the Co-opem tivo Cash System, marking their goods at a very small advance on cost trusting to alamo turnover to make it remuneratlvef Furnish your House from the City Hall Arcado Gar jcli and Cranwell, Proprietors.-fAdv" ]

GRAMMAR SCHOOL BOARD.

PROPOSED CHANGE IN THE

MASTERSHIP,

The adjourned meeting of the Board of Governors was commenced in the Secte. tary's office, O'Connell-street, at four o'clock yesterday afternoon. There were present ■ Sir G. M. O'Korke (Chairman), His Worship the Mayor (Mr J. M. Clark) Colonel Haultain, and Messrs F. rj' Fenton, E. Hesketh, J. M. Dargaville, F, M. P. Brookfield, J. A. Tolc, and the Key C. M. .Nelson.

REPORTS OF EXAMINERS,

The first busiaess was the consideration of the reports of the examiners.

Mr Fenton thought the reports should be allowed to be on the table until some gentle, man was prepared to make a motion with regard to them. The hey Mr Nelson said that at the pro. per time he would be prepared to speak upon the subject as one who had been an examiner for a number of years. It would suilice for him to say at present that the re. port of Mr Mulgau, with one exception was not at all favourable to tho inbtitution' while that of Mr Ruuciman was far too favourable. He would be prepared to advance his reasons for this ttatement when the time arrived. Mr Runciman's papers were far too simple, aud the result was seen in the large percentage of boys who obtained full marks — a rather unusual occurrence under ordinary circumstances.

After some further discussion, which the reporters weru asked not to take a record of, it was decided that the examination list for 1880, showing the names and number of marks obtained, should be printed, and copies forwarded to the parents and guard aius of the pupils.

THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL MASTERSHIP.

The Chairman then announced that the debute could be resumed ou Mr Beaton's motion of the previous day, viz., " That this Board concurs in the opinion expressed by the Koyal Commission on Education that the headmaster of the Grammar School should be a graduate of the

University."

Mr Brooklield, who had moved the ad journment of the debate on the previous day, now explained that he had done so hi order to aiiord Mr I'enton an opportunity of explaining fully his reasons for bringing the motion forward, tic himselt had no desire to speak at that time. Mr Fenton : 1 find that the Royal Com mission at one of its sittings wrote to onr secretary requesting him to send a copy of time-table uuder which the school had been worked for 1879. He did send one up, but it turned out to be a temporary time-table; but afterwards the Commission was supplied with the real table. It would be in the recollection of some members of the Board that shortly after becoming a member of it, 1 moved for a time-table, when two were sent in—first tbe temporary one and afterwards the real one.

Colonel Haultain : Is this bearing npon the question ?

Mr Fenton : I ask is it fair that when two contrary time-tables have been supplied I should be interrupted in the course of my remarks by a member asking if such a matter is reletant? What is relevant if the work done at the school is not ? If this sort of thing is to be allowed, the debate will be futile. On a previous occasion, I asked the Secretary to supply some statistical information read out by himself publicly. I asked him on what authority it was based, and he was not able tv tell us.

Mr Dargavilla : I think the same feeling that prompted Colonel Haultain'now prompts me to ask whether this matter is relevant to the resolution before us, for this reason: We undeistand that Mr Fenton was sub mitting this resolution as a general, abstract resolution, without reference to school or person. If he is now going to show instances in the Auckland College and Grammar School why the master of that school ought to be a "graduate of the Uni versity, we should understood that the debate is having a direct personal applica tion to Mr Macrae. I had thought that we were to discuss an abstract proposi tion.

The Chairman: 1 understand that Mr Feu ton merely wishes a reply to a question which he put to the secretary yesterday.

Mr Fenton: I wish tor information which I requested yesterday. If the Board does not think that it in due to their honour that an explanation should be forthcoming, ot the reasous for supplying two contrary time tables, I am quite content-1 Bhould have nothing further to say. The Secretary : 1 applied to the Head Master for the proper time-table of the school, and on receiving it from him I for warded it to the Royal Commission.

Mr Clark : Is it relevant to this question whether the time-tables were supplied or not?

The Chairman: The question is a very large one, and the information may be relevant.

Mr Fenton : I am not going to pursue the matter further now, but it is quite compe tent for me to do so at any future time.

Mr Tole: The answer therefore, I pre sume, is that the responsibility of supplying the information rests with the headmaster. Mr Dargaville : The inference from which is that if the headmaster of the Grammar School had been a graduate of the University, he would not have committed this mistake. (Laughter).

Mr Fenton : I am sorry to see that this question is being made a matter of joke. It is not so with me, and neither is my posi tion here a matter of joke. It is rather a painful one than otherwise. I am not happy in being placed in the position of making such an enquiry as this. On the contrary, I am very unhappy, and it is only through a desire to be true to a sense of duty that 1 occupy the position at all, feeling that if I did not accept it, I ought to go—to leave the Board. Mr Hesketh : I was not here yesterday, but since the commencement of the debate to-day, I have beeu listening in order to find out the relevancy of this matter to the resolution.

The Chairman : It has a relevancy to the debate, which was commeuced yeiterday.

Mr Feuton: I do not see why amongst ourselves this discussion should bo carried on in the way that it; now is. Although I may differ from some of the other n .embers on various points, I give them full credit for sincerity and honesty, and Ido not see why they should not be conceded to me. Although we may differ conscientiously from one another, there is therefore no reason for importing any unpleasant spirit into the debate. I will now say that the motive of that resolution yes terday was my belief that it would be acceptable in its then form to a majority of the Board. It lam asked why I need to put it in that form, I may say that I was advised to do so, and that I am not there fore responsible for any uupleasantneM which that act may lead to. Supposing that it was the opinion of ttis Board that a reform was needed in the Grammar School, I naturally thought that the Board would be very glad, without laying much on the subject,, to vote upon my resolution, thus letting it pass m a way which would have avoided the unpleasantness of advancing reasons for bringing ie forward. However, this action docs not satisfy the gentlemen who differ from me. They say why did I bring forward this resolution. I will tell them. I havebeen a member of the Board for two years, aud during the whole of that time, off and on, I have endeavoured to introduce what I considered necessary reforms, I remember scarcely auy instances in which I have met with success. I was beaten meeting after meeting, and sometimes I was entirely alone in my action, (still, I felt that so long as I was to continue my duty, I should persevere in urgiDg those reforms or retire altogether. 1 am urging them still, and although I have been beaten so often I do not think that I have any feeling of hostility to anyoue on that account, ti ere lam again, ready to i take another beating, if the members of the Board are determined to give me one. It is now, t for the first time, we have had the report of 'ho Royal Commis sion before us, and that is the reason why I have not moved this particular resolution before. I say that that report is one which I hope wo will accept as an authority. I am ready to do so, as far, at least, as the points upon which the members of that Commission were unanimous. When such a report has been presented, we should treat the opinions contained in it with the greatest respect. There are some opinions recorded in it with regard to which the members of the Commission were not unani mous, and they, may therefore be left to discussion. But where they are unanimous, 1 contend that we should adopt their recom mendations. I have been asked why I selected thin particular gem from the collec tion, but as I subssquently thowed Mr Dar gaville, I had a number of gems picked out from it. I had two pages of them with me, and not merely one, when he objected. 1 was obliged to take one only, howevor, whence pulled out his watch and said, " I will give you three minutes." Mr Dargaville : I beg your pardon ; I do not wear a watch.

Mr Fenton : Well, somebody's watch. _ Mr Dargaville : Mr Fenton is now going into the joking department. Mr Fentou : Those questions I intend to go on with, and you can have which you please first. I gave what I considered a, most important one at first. The result

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR. THUBSWAY. JANUARY 27.



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Special Advertisements. LAND IN THE ISLANU OF MOT U" TAPU FOR BALK. Offers are invited for the Purchase of the One sixth Undivided Share or Interest of Robert Maxwell in 2200 acrea in the Islam) of Motutapu. Hauraki Gulf, forming Section 374 .0,, in the County of Kden, and Province of Auckland. It ra held under the Crown Grant, Registered No. it2i36, and Robert Maxwell is one of the Six Grantees, tenants in common. The land is bounded towards the North and East by high water line on the shore; towards South South Eatt and South by lapd granted to Robert Graham; towards the West by high vater line on the shoro to Public Reserve; thence by BaidPublio Reserve; and thence to wards the West by bighwater line on the shore. Motutapu Island is one of the Gems of the Haurafci Gulf; rich and fertile: and the Share for sale, when partitioned, would form an ex cellent farm for a working settler. iTor further particulars apply to SIEVWRIGHT & STOUT, Solicitors, Wellington, TTULL mtOTHEBS, HAVE NOW LANDING, Ex 'Fambnoth' and 'Looh Doon,' 1,200 PACKAGES, Consisting of GROCERIES AND OILMEN'S STOHES, AND HAVE FOR SALE AMERICAN RANGES AND STOVES BARBED STEEL FENCING WIRE DOUGLAS PUMPS, LAWN MOWERS CORNSACKS, GRINDSTONES, OIL STONES, &c, &c, &c. Agenta for J. Craig & Son's Celebrated Scotch vVhiskey. HULL BROTHERS, Anctloneew, Wine and Spirit Merchants Queen-Btreet Kauri Gnm Stores. Breakwater Free »nd Bonded StDrea Albert-street. *TIO SMALL CAPITALISTS. A SPLENDID INVESTMENT. In the Flourishing Town of Hawera, a DRAPERY BUSINESS occupying the Best Position in the Town, doing a First-oiass Trade. Terms Liberal. Sole reason of the present Pro prietor selling, ill health. Note.—The Waimate Plains, adjoining Hawera, have just been sold, so that there is a good prospect for anyone with small capital. For particulars apply to A. CLARK & SONS, or the ■undorsignec G. H. ARMSTRONG, Proprietor, High-street, Hawera. <



Special Advertisements. O UR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SALE WILL COMMENCE ON MONDAY, 20TH INST. THE GOOD 3 WILL BK OFFKRKD AT pOST -puICE! FOlt A FEW WEEKS ONLY! In Okdke to Clear Heavy Stocks iMPOKTKIiS Of DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, queen- strkkt, Auckland. N.B.—No GooAswill be entered during the Sale. S A - T 1000 BA.GH W. & W. KINK 1000 BAtiS W. & W. COAR3K ON H A JN D AND TO ARRIVE PER 'LOCH XJRR,' From London. In lots to Bult purchasers W. S. LAUR I«, 7, Wyndham-strcot.



-RTEW /-1OODS! A. LINABURY & CO. Aro Now Showing their NEW SPRING AND SUMMER GOODS. We hold the Largest and Best Stock of COSTUMES, MILLINERY FANCY GOODS. DBKS3 GOOD 3 FLOWERS, FEATHERS, &c, &C. Special Lino of Plain Dress Silks, only 3a lid per yard; worth 6s 6d. 5,000 Straw Hats, all now shapes. A Large Stook of Ladled and Children's Under clothing. Dress'and Maude-making on the premises Costumes mads in 24 hours'notice. A. LINABURY & CO., 204 AND 206, QUEKN-STRKKT AUSTRIAN BENT-WOOD FURNI TURK.—A large Shipment just to hand, light and strong, suitable for Breakfast, Sitting, Diningl, or Drawing-room (Blaok, Walnut, and Lißht Colours. GARLICK & CRANWELL, City Hall Furnishing Arcade, Queen-Btreot. Ancldand. /^ATTPetS.—Tho Largest stook in the Pro \J vincetoselect from—all kinds. Tapestry, from 2s lid; Brussels, from 49 lid ; Kid derminster, Fait, and Jute. The New Worckbtkr Stair Carpet, made of Horse Hair, just received—the most durable Carpet ever made. GARLICK & CRANWKLL. BEDROOM FURNITURE.-A Great Variety always ready for delivery, to suit all classes. Cheats of Drawers, Withstands, TBilet Tables and Wardrobes in various woods, Glasses and Toiletware. Bedding; of all kinds and sizes; Spring Mattresses. GARLICK & CRANWELL. XHIBITION Designs in Iron Bedsteads.- We keeD the Greatest Variety of Iron Bedsteads in Town, and are Importers direct from the manufacturers. Hand some Wood Bedsteads from our own Factory. GARLICS fc CRANWELL. r^ARLICK & CRANWELL keep such a vT Large Assortment of General Household Furniture tflat you can Furnish a Houso throughout from their Btock at a day's notice. DRAWING-ROOM Suites in Btock, suitable for a Cottage or a Mansion, all uphol i stered by ourselveß and guaranteed. Suites for Dining and Sitting Rooms in various sty lei. GARLICK & CRANWKLL. ONLY Warehouse in Town conducted on the London System, combining all depart-, monts of Furnishing, Drapery, and Clothing. crrr hall arcade. FIVK Per Cent Cash Discount on all kinds of Furniture, Carpets, Matting, Floorcloths. Ironmongery, Toiletware, and Brush ware. GARLICK & CRANWKLL. T> OO X CATALOGUES, post free or on applied X> tion. to those intending to Furnish. Esti mates and designs Riven. Carpets made up. Linoleum and Oilcloths laid. Needle work mounted. All kinds of Upholstery and Cabinet-work by first-class workmen INSPECT OUR STOCK: IHE JJARQK3T IN AUCKLAND 1 GARLICK & CRANWELL, CITY HALL ARCADE ■ÜBKN-BTREET &LiOßtf E-STBKBT, AUCKLAND.



yy "DURK piBH OK3TKM /p.\ ALL DRAPER ST & CLOTHING / CS. \ AT \ - /CO.OPEBATIVE CASH V- c/ PRICES, \/ AT THE rMTY TTALL ARCADE, GARLICK & CRANWELL, Proprietors.



"W I N X S & FT ALL, HAVE REMOVED FKOM SHOBTLAND-STEEET TO TEMPORARY PREMISES IN FORT STREET, OPPOSITE COCHRANE AND SON'S AUCTION MAKT, AND WILL CONTINUE THEIR CHEAP SALE FOR A FEW WEEKS LONGEH, TO CLEAE SURPLUS STOCK. THEY WILL EEMAIN IN FORT-STREET DURING THERE-BUILDING OF THEIR WARE HOUSE IN SHOBTLAKD.STEEET. QTOCK-TAKING "DARGAINS I In preparation] for Stook-taWng, WILLIAM RATTRAYhas REDUCED THE PRICJES OF HIS Large and Well-assoutbd Stock OF SUMMER poSTtfMES, TIJANTLE3, AND In order to cffeot a CLE.abUKEE. COSTUMES at 12b 6d Reduced to 33 6d COSTUMES at 19s 6a Eebuckd to tSt COSTUME 3at 25a Kkdooito to IDs (Cd COSTUMKS at 30a I Reduces to 25a COSTUMES at 35s Reduced to 28s Cd COSTUMES at 45a Reduced to 37s fid MANTLES and MILLINEKY are Reduced in similar proportions, AT j WILLIAM -OATTRAY'S Costume, Maotxe, Millineby, & General Orapert Establishment, NBW ZEALAND HOUSE, 66', QUEEN-STUEET, AUCKLAND.



•W HI Fukk gifts !—The Proprietors of Wolfe's Aromatic schibdam schnapps, to lnnuco tho destruction and prevent tho im proper use of their wrappers and labols. and thus furthor protect the Public against fraud and deception, havo enclosed in tho wrappers, or under tho labul on tho quart bottles, slnco Ist Octobor. 1878, and continuo to endow IN kvkry day's packing thbouohoot thk tkah, T II R E X SI ORDERS, which are drawn upon the undersignoa, and which will be cashed by them on presentation. To sccuro theso Gifts, tno PubUn must be careful to ask for, and accept nothing but, tho Grnuine Udoii'ho Wolfe's Schnapps, with our name upon the top label, M. Moss &Co Wynyard Lano, Sydney.