SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

-„,— x_r i -_■„ I This Kvenlng, 5.31 HIGH WATER j To4IlOn ~ w Morning, 5 58 eUNSET.-Thlß Kvenlng, 7.12 SUNRISE.—To-Morrow Morning, .43 MOON'S AGE.-NOW Moon, Slat. I.IG p.m.

ARRIVALS.

YESTERDAY. Coromandel, barque, Hondry, from London Etelnoro, schooner, Urquhart, from Tnirua Howard, achoonor, Acdoreon, from Whangarol

TODAY.

Onward, sohooner, Pankau, from Rubboll Bhoderlok Dhu, brlgantlno, Robertson from Melbourne

DEPARTURES.

•-KSTE-DAY. Bea Breeze, sohooner, Bylvo, for Talrua . Saucy Kate, sohooner, Lewis, for Russell Mariner, sohooner, for lint ecu

IMPORTS. Per Rodorlok Dhu, from Molbourno: 231 tons , bonodust, 1 threshing machine. , Per Coromandel-6 cases of sulphnrio acid, 6 cases of hydroohlorio acid, 3 oosos of nitric acid 1 oase ot fluoric acid. 6 casks ot ohoinlonls, .12 cases of medlolnes and sundrlca.—T. li. Hill. Por Coromandel, from London : — Plain cottons, -000; coloured oottons, -200; printod cottons, £100 ; flannels, £300 ; linens, -100 ; millinery, -100: hosiery, £100; sewing thread, «100 ; haberdashery, £100 ; cotton and linen Bhlrta, £100; apparel. £300; blankots, £511.; carpets and rugs, £200 ; dressed lo.ther, £220 ; wrought leather, £1,130; Baddlery, £180; sew ing machines, £750; vestas, £170; agricultural implements, £230 ; agricultural maohinory. £110; rails and general machinery, £l.0C0; books. £10; paper. 52iowt; stationery. £200; pooorhangings, £110 ; upholstery, £710; iron bedsteads, £10 ; toys, £100 ; pianos. £110 ; corka, _40; clocks and watches. £20; agricul tural and garden seeds, £1,190; dynamite, £10; gunpowder, lOOowt.; lead shot, 3 tons; hard ware and cutlery, £1,700; bar and rod iron, 10 tons; hoop iron, 18 tons; shoot iron, 9 tons; galvanised iron, 36 tons, shoot lead, 12 tons; tin plates, 251 boxes; iogot tin, 6owt.: Iron nails, 19 tons; wire and wiro rope, 70 torn ; sslno, 10 tons; steel, 5 tons; linseed oil, 2,070 gallons; rape oil, 210 gallons; cod oil. 1,710 gallons; paint colours, £1,070; glue, 2cwt ; pi tali and tar, 6 barrels; flint-glass, £70; foroign window-glass, 316 cases; china and earthon ware, £210; glass bottles, £290 ; bran and flour bags, £210; canvas, £190; cordage, £8(1; lines and twino, £110; brandy In bulk, ICO gallons; brandy in case, 600 gallons; rum, 710 gallons; British spirits tn bulk, 1,430 gallons; white wine, 160 gallons; beer in glass. 98 barrels; llsh (preserved). £100; llsh (salt), £10; sardines, £10; assorted oilmen's stores, £130; mineral wator, £10; pepper and spice, lewt; ooooa,scwt; nuts. llowt; split peas, 30owt; white salt, 10 tons; soda crystals, 9 tons; caustlo Bode, G tons; silicate, 3 tons; candles, 115owt; soap, 12owt; oarraway seed, lowt; glngor, lowt; coffee, 20c wt; oonfeotlonery and peel, £100; ohomicals, not described, £91; apothecary ware, £100; tartaric acid, llowt; condonscd milk, £30 Total declared value of cargo, £23,9.0.

EXPORTS.

Per Enterprise, for Lyttelton (to bo loadod nt Tatmo)-30 tons doors and saßhes, 59,000 foot sawn timber.

Inwards Coastwisk.—Triad, from Ohino inuri, with 100 tolegraph poles; Persoveranco, from Sandspit, with 300 bushels-ravel; Totara, from Port Charles, with 20,000 feet timber; Reward, from Whangarol, with 69 tons ooal. 2j tons gum; Lagoon, from Omaha, with 20,000 feet baulk timber; Mana, from Talrua, with 21,970 feet timber.

OnTWAKDS Coastwis*.—Perseverance, for Waiheke: Lagoon, for Whitongi; Fanny, for Talrua; Mana, tor Whltangl.

The 8,8, Rotomahana left Glsborne nt 8 30 a.m. to-day, and may therefore be expected hero about the same hour to-morrow morning.

The brlgantlno Knterprlso cleared at the Cus toms for Lyttelton via Talrua to-day. She loads timber at the latter port.

The band of the Russian cruiser Africa came on shore at 2 o'olock to-diy, and procooded by ■bus to Remuera, where they porform for the benefit of visitors to the Mayor's garden party.

The brlgantlno Roderick Dhu. left Melbourne on the Ith ult„ exoerienosd light N.W. ond variable weather during the passage, and arrived in harbour at 2 p.m, to-day.

The brlgantlno Banncokburn is loading bone dust at Melbourne, for Waikato,

Tho sohooner Orphans has entered oat at the diatoms for Savage Island.

The barque Espeoulador cleared at tbe Cub" toma to-day for a whaling cruise. She proceeds southward.

The eohooner Nightingale was expected to loavo Melbourne for Kalpara In ballast about the Bth instant.

Tho s.s Macgregcr crossed Waltara Bar at 7 a.m. to-day. and may, therefore, be expected to arrive at Onehunga lato thia evening. She sails again for Opunpake and Wanganul at 10 a.ra. to-morrow.

The b.s. Rowena is advertised for Hokianga on Thursday, from Onohunga.

The barque John Knox is loading timber at the Railway Wharf. She will be full about the end of the week, and will then take her depar ture for Sydney.

The new ferry steamer "Victoria got up steam on Saturday afternoon, and had a spin down the harbour as far as tno lighthouse. She had a rnn with the Takapuna, and passed her easily. The official trip will probably take place on Thure day.

The Kalpara Steamship Company notify in our advertising columns that the as. Durham wUl.ln future, leave Helonsville for the Northern Walroa after the arrival of the Friday afternoon train from Auokland, returning from Dargaville on Monday morning, In addition to her usual Tuesday's trip. This alteration will enable passengers to reach Dargaville early on Satur day.

ARRIVAL OF THE COROMANDEL, FROM LONDON.

The New Zealand Shipping Co.'s barque Coromandel, 819 tons, arrived from London, and dropped anchor at the powder ground, at 3 a.m. yesterday. She has made a fair passage ot 99 days from port to port, or 89 days from land to land. Dr Fhilson boirded tho vessel yesterday, and pronounced all the passengers in good health. Captain Hondry, who is a stranger to Auokland, reports tt the passage as follows !— loft London on Septembers, and Gravesendthe fallowing day, Had moderate winds down channel, and lout sight of Start Point on the 11th. From hence, until sighting Madeira on Sept. 21, had changeable winds and fine woathor. Here picked up N.B. trades, which proved moderate, and mado 11 N. before losing them. Thence had light S.W. winds tolat..2'lo N., whore the S.E. trades were picked up. Crossed tho Kquator in long. 19.0 W., on Octo ber 11. These trades proved fresh and unsteady. Mado lat. 22 S„ long. 30 W„ on October 19. Crossed the meridian of tbe Capo ot Good Hopo in lat. 10 S., 59 days from London, having carried changeable winds from date of losing U.K. trades. The westerlies were at first light and variable, bat increased in strength while running down tho easting, botwoon 22 and it S„ and the meridian of Cape Lswln, whloh was crossed on November 23th. Tasmania was passed on December 4. Thence had moderate winds from N.B. to N.N.W. until making land at Cascade Point on Decem ber 10. Experienced moderate W. and N. W. Winds up the coaat,and sighted tho Three Kings on December 15. Thenoe had light 1..W. winds until making the Little Barrier on December 17. Were boarded by the pilot tho same night. Passengers: — Steerage: Henry and Edward Walton, Charlotto and Sarah Wedding, Patrick Regan : George, Elizabeth, Herbert, Mary, Mary, Mary K. Smith; Mary G. Door. William Brid out; Joseph, Mary G,, Arthur, Mary K„ Frances Smith; Georgo and Harriet Jone*, Edward and Parah Wood, Martha Eohofield; Edward. Anne, Harold, Hubert, Eleanor, and Jessica BeUhouEO.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS.

DEPARTURES.

■Wanaka, s.s., Anderson, from tho south Lalla Rookh, b.b., Robertson, from Waltara

Kate McGregor, sohooner. Couch, tor Hokiasga Rowona, 8.5., Scott, for Waltara

■ The B.s. Maogregor loft Waltara this morning, and should arrive at an early hour to-morrow morning,

Tho s.s. Rowona left at 10.30 a.m. to-day for Waltara with 40 tons sundry merchandise as cargo and tbe following passengers:—Miss Barnes, Messrs Robertson (2), G. Evans, and two others,

The s.s. Lalla Rookh arrived at 7 a.m. yester day with 19 ho-d cattle, 96 sheep, 2 horses, and 4 packages batter from Waiters. She was to return thither this afternoon,

Tho Union Co,'s s.s. Wanaka arrived from" the South at 9 30 am. yestorday, with 10 bales flax, 10 caacs trait, 15 hides, 32 packages butter. 17 packages sundries. She is announced to return South at 10 a.m. to-morrow. latest train from Auckland, 9.10 a.m.

KAIPARA SHIPPING.

H-L-NBViiX-, this day, KalDß.ru Heads: arrived—brigantins Fanny. Wind bound: Thomas and Honry, Sarah Pile, Telegraph and Stag.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

O-M-Ktr, this day Sailed: Gustavo Mezler, for Liverpool, with a oargo of wheat. Cleared: Unioorn, with a oargo of grain, for London.

DUR-DIN, this day. The brlgantlno Van-lie, from Sydney, was admitted to pratiquo yesterday. The N.„,Mercanillo Company received the following telegram from Melbourne: Oat mar ket still deollnlng. Snspond shipment.

COMMERCIAL.

Kv-NINO Stab Offlco, Monday.

Messrs Ooohrano and Hon offered the St. Stephen's estate and other properties to-day at their land mart. The only propor ty sold was an allotment at Freeman's Bay, with a frontage of 27 foot to Vernon-streot, which was purchased by Mr John Jack for £59 8?. Messrs Hunter and Nolan held a wool sale this afternoon, consisting of 58 lots or Ho bales, Long-wool grease brought from 6jd to 7:1a; half bred, 7:] dto BJd; merino. B|d. The principal buyers wero Mesßrs Hesketh, Ireland Bros,, Potter, Bouthorland, Laybourn, and Reld.

Mr Greenwood sold to-day a parcel of land at Waimouku, containing six acres, 2 roods, etc., for -30, also 120 acres.beiDß let 61, at Awitu, for £3110 i. The other allotmonts were passed.

Mr Gabriel Lewis held a salo Of Christmas presents, eleotro-plate ware, and jewellery, but, although the goods were some ot the finest ever imported Into this city, the bidding was dull. The electro-plate articles were sold, but the jewellery was reserved for future competition.

Mail Notice.

Mails wi__'C_ob_ as Und_b.—

This Day, For Russell, Kawakawa, Wongaroa, and Mongonul, per Glonelg, at -30 p.m. For Tauranga, Ohinomutu, and Opotlkl, per Wellington, at 1.30 p.m. For Thames, per Knterprlso, at 5.30 p.m.

Tuesday. Sot_ Instant. For Australian Colonies, por H.I.R.M. ship Afrloa, at 6.30 a.m. For Tara-akt and Southern ports, por Wanaka,

at 8 a.m. _ For Walwera, Kawau, Omaha, and Matakana, per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Talrua, per Mana. at 10 a.m. For Coromandel, por Coromandol, at 1.30 p.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, etc, per Rotomahana,

at 4 p.m For Whangarol Heads, Walpu. Whangarol, and Mangapal, por Argyle, at 1.30 p.m.

Wednesday, 2lßt Instant. > For Coromandel, por Coromandel, nt 130 p.m. For Thames, por Rotomahana, at 2 30 p.m.

Tuesday, 3rd January, 1882. Por u.e. Australia as follow :— Per b.b. City of Sydney, as follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United States of America. Canada, British Colombia, Central and South Amorlon. and British and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. For money ordors registered letters, and nowspapers, at 11.30 a.m. Late letters bearing an extra fee of sixpence In addition to the postage, will be received by tho Mall Agont on board tho Btoemer up to tho time of soiling. This mall will bo duo in London on Mon day, 13th February, 18„. S. B. BIBS, Chtof Postmaster. Ohlof Poat-oflioo. Auokland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

December 19.1881,

Choral Hall—Lecture on Nelson, by Captain Charlos Oliver, 8 p.m. Albert Hall—ltalian Wizard Company, 8 p.m.

Birth.

HANNKKN.-On Decomber 15th, at her re sidence. Union-street, tho wife of Phil. F. Honnkoa of a daughter. PRATT.-On December 7th, at her parents' re sidence, Walpu, Mrs. A. Pratt of a daughtor. RAFITY.-On Dooamber 16th, at Onohunga, tho wlfo of M. Raftty of twins-sons. THORP.—On Decomber 17th. at Cook-et root, tho wife of G. J. Thorp of a daughter; both doing well.

Death.

TURN-R.-On December 17. Camolia Boatrlco, tbo youngest daughter of E. B. K. and Caro line Sarah Turner, aged 17 months. Tho funeral will leave her parents' residence. Manukau Rood, to-morrow (Tuesday), at 1 p.m.

WORMS.-On Dooomber 18th, 1881, Samuel Louis Worms, aged 53 years. Tho funeral will loavo his late rosidonco, Pompalier-street, Ponsonby, at 3 o'olook to morrow. Members ot the 1.0. G.T. and friends are invited to attend.

Notices to Correspondents.

T. B. Hannaford. — The matter Is not of snlllciont publlo interest to justify the insertion of your letter. If the boy has a genuine cause of complaint, you should bring It under tho notice ef the school committee. M. B.—The Hon and tiger both belong to the Felitlcc species. Charlos tho First was a Protestant, and though accused of schomlng wtth Papists, ho, publicly proclaimed his determination to uphold the Protectant Church, and died apparently In that faith. R. T. H.-We cannot toko any cognisance of such matters. You should enquire.at the offlco yourself. Open boat Owner,—Yon ought elthor to sco the boat owners referred to personally, or issno a public challenge. A Fr-QU-nt Traveller,—Tho mattor is not ono for newspaper controversy. Wboro human life ia at stake, regulations must be severely enforced.

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

MONDAY, DECEMBER 19, 1881.

For the cause that lacks av-ilance, For the wrong that needs resisttoc For the future in the distance. And the good that we can do.

We learn with great pleasure that tho Rotorua railway project has been taken up with enthusiasm by the business men of Auckland. Altcady some 90,000 shares are subscribed for. The ready response of the public to this appeal proves that tho spirit of enterprise is far from dead in our city. The work is one that will benefit Auckland immensely. It will open up a wide extent of tine agricultural country, and will make the Lake region easily accessible to the thousands of wealthy invalids in this and the neighbouring colonies who arc now only deterred from coming here to recruit their wasted vital powerc, by the painful fatigues of the journey, and the want of medical attendance at the Lakes. The last want has now been sup plied ia connection with the now Govern ment township at Rotorua, and through the public spirit of the people of this city the former is also in a fair way of being to- j moved. The basis on which the provisional directors are proceeding secures to the shareholders good profit while making them great public benefactors. The owners .of the land through which the line is to pass consent to be rated under tho Railway Constructions Act, so that should the line only pay its bare working expenses the shareholders have still a cer tainty of seven per cent It is also in tended to pay interest immediately on monies deposited. Of the proposed capital not more than five or ten shillings per snare will have to be called up, as the entire sum required can be raised in England at a very low rate of interest upon security of the Company's debentures, so that the difference between the rate of interest paid in England and the rate earned by the line will also come as an item of profit into the pockets of the local shareholders. The calls viill only be made at the rate of one shilling per share, at intervals of not less than two months. It wonld have been pos sible to float the Company without difficulty in Melbourne, but it was thought inadvisable to allow an investment of so much promise to pass away from the con trol of Auckland people. The undertaking is one that commends itself strongly to the public spirit of our citizens. Property, owners in the city will benefit very largely from it, and arc therefore specially inter ested in bringing the project to a successful issue. It is requisite that the share list shall bo still further swelled, and applica tions must be sent in at once through members of the Auckland Sharcbrokers' Association, that body having been ap pointed the authorised agency between in vestors and the Company,

A CAREFUL analysis of the telegraphic election" returns brings out the following results :—There wero eleven uncontested European seats, and excluding Christ church North (the figures of which were not telegraphed) some 67,280 votes were polled in tbe other 79 doctorates. There is at present no means of ascertain ing how many names were on the roll, but the colonial rolls in 1879 had 82,271 names, out of which number only 43,776 recorded their votes, or some 36 per cent, of the adult male population. But in that year there were fourteen uncontested elections against eleven this year. Looking at the votes recorded this year in the 79 electorates, it may be said, roughly, that every seventh soul voted, but this would be only approximate, as • many persons voted for more than one electoral district under the property franchise,

Captain Charles Oliver (late of the Eritiah army) will deliver his promised lec ture on Lord Nelson this evening in the Choral Hall. Tho tickets have found a ready sale, and a large attendance of the public is therefore anticipated.

The season of tho Montague-Turner Opera Company will not commenco till Wednes day. This is owing to the detention of the Rotomahana.

A correspondent suggests tho attention of the police being called to the practice of allowing mere children to drive milk-carts about the city. Any morning a child about eight years of age may be seen in Albeit Park delivering milk, and in charge of a cart.

'* M.R." asks if tho Insurance Companies want to encourage more lires in the city, a.. the building lately partly burnt in hymonds street is left open for any loafer, and is also in a dangerous condition, and should not be allowed to remain unfenced or unfastened.

A meeting of bicyclists, for the purpose of taking the necessary atcps for forming a club, will bo held in the Yottng Men's Christian Association building on Wednes day evening next, at 7.30.

A foot-race between Messrs Monnock and Barchard for £3 a-side, took place iv the Domain on Saturday afternoon. The dis tance was 150 yards, and Barchard was allowed a start of three yards. The men got away Well together, but Monnock could not catch his opponent.and he lost tho face by barely half-a-yard, "Early Bird*' thinks that it the new fence now being erected round Albert Park is to be preserved, it will be necessary to nt once have some regulation or by-law brought into operation enforcing a penalty for getting over the iron rails, otherwise the larrikin element will follow the example of others who should know better, and soon make their entrances and exits in a manner not provided for, and resulting in damages to both wall and railings,

Statistics show that, in France, between 1835 and 1554, one railroad traveller out of 1,955,555, was killed by accident; between 1.50 and ISC9, ono out of 13,323,014; be tween 1572 and 1879, ono out of 27,897,000, In the olden time, when stago coaches did tho \vork of the steam-car, it is reckoned that in France one passenger out of every 355,000 was killod> and one wounded out of ovory 30,000 travellers.

Tho annual mooting of the Henderson's Mill Racing Club was held last Saturday ovoning, Mr Thomas Henderson, junr., presiding. It, was resolved that the annual race rucetinfl be held on St. Patrick's day, 17th of March, 18S2; and that the County Cup and Maori Baco bo expunged from the programme. The officers wore elected for tho ensuing year :—President, the Hon. Thomas Henderson ; vice-president, Mr A. K. Taylor j judge, Mr W, J. Hurst; starter, Mr Archibald ; clerk of the course, Mr C. Cowan ; stewards, Messrs Smyth, Malatu, Hepburn, Thomas Henderson, junr., and R. Garrett; haudicappor, Mr William Percival.

To the Editor t Sir,—Reading tho article in Saturday night's Star I find that ap pearances are very much against, when actually we have been sinned against. You will therefore oblige me, and state in this evening's Star, that through the neglect of cither our receiver on the wharf, or the very Custom House official, who forget to stamp tho cigar boxes (which wore duly duty paid), our firm has had a shewing up, which was as unfair us undeserved, and you yourself should have used moro discretion and have tried to get versed with the faetß before inserting the article in question.—Yours truly, Herman Brown.—[Wo are at a loss to understand what our correspondent means by the statement, " our iirm has had a shewing up, which was unfair aud un deserved." The roport in Saturday's Star morely mentioned the bare fact of the fceizuro botug mado by the Customs, and expressly stated that the reason why the goods seized were without stamp hud yet to be elicited.—Eu. E.S.]

His Lordship, the Bishop of Auckland, held an ordination service yesterday morn ing at 11,30 o'clock, in the pleasant church of tho Holy Trinity, Dcvouport.

The service was largely attended. The Bishop was assisted by the Vcn. Archdeacon Maunscll, Rev. ltobt. Kidd, L.L.D., P.ev. B. Y. Ashwell, and ltev. Joseph Bates, incumbent of the parish. The service opened with hymn 2GB (Ancient aud Modern) aud the ordination prayers. The sermon was preached by Ivev. Mr Bates from St. Paul's Epistlo to the Ephesians, c, 4, v. 11 and 12, on the " Divine bestowni of gifts upon men that tho church might bo odilied." The sermon was suited to the occasion and received marked attention.

The candidates for ordination as deacons, Messrs F. Evans aud Farley, were pre sented to the Bishop. Tho Litany was then read, after which hymn 353, aud the communion service. Tho whole of the service was impressive. It is expected that one of the nowly ordained deacons will be appointed to the charge of Northcoto.

Our Whangarci correspondent writes : — A most enjoyable entertainment was afforded the people of Whanganu last even ing by the children of the Government school, kindly assisted by some of the ladies, who are ever ready to assist a good cause, and who, true to their colours, came forward willingly and contributed songs and pianoforte pieces, whioh were heartily applauded, as they deserved, The children, under the care and tuition of the Hoy, Mr Hudson, who exerted himself in bis usual kind and energetic manner, acquitted them selves well, a3 did also those who recited, reflecting groat credit upon their respected teacher, Mr Fidler. Special mention may be made of tho tiny ltttle girl, the daughter of Captain Crawford, who recited "Tho Sands of Dee." Tho cause for which the entertainment was originated is a 1 noble one, viz., the improving of tho play -1 ground and supplying means of healthy amusement for the children. The Hcv. Mr Mackintosh occupied the chair, and ia his address awarded a due word of praise to Mr Fidler and his assistants. Mr J. T. Milne, member of the committee, proposed a vote of thanks to tho ladies and Mr Hudson for their kind assistance, seconded by Mr Bedlington, and in returning thanks Rev. Mr Hudson gave the ladies their full share, deprecating his own labours. We trust this is only tho first of a series which will redound to the instruction and amuse ment of all,

To the Editor: Sir,—l see by Mr Horace Dean's announcement in the Star that he will offer two prizes at his forthcoming en tertainment—one for the best poem and one for the best conundrum, on the Auckland Fire Brigade. These misty announcements frequently aro very disappointing. If Mr I)ean or Superintendent Hughes really de- Bired a creditable poem—one which tho Bri gade might woithily retain, why not state the nature of the Drize in order that aspir ing rhymstcrs may not invoke tho " fickle muses " in vain 1 Some years ago a prize was offered at the Thames for a poem on " Gold." A really excellent poem was pro duced by a young man at Coromandel, and tbe prize was a child's threo and six penny selection of poetry. Mr Dean's prize last year consisted of two bulky volumes of no literary value, chiefly com posed of newspaper extracts; their re deeming features being a lar^e number of good woodcuts. Instead of presenting suc cessful competitors, naturally men of some culture and taste, with children's picture books, I think the complcto works of some standard author, or a money prize would be far more acceptable to men possessing the power of writing acceptable verse.—Yours, &c, B. A. OXON.

A general business mceting'of the French Literary Association was held on Saturday evening, about 40 members being present. The president, Mr C. do lEan, occupied the cbair. The secretary (Mr 11. S. V. \ Peltzer) made a verbal report of the half year's operations, from which it appeared that the association was founded on the 18th of June last, and that it now had a membership of 20 ladies and 71 gentlemen, and that 26 meetings had been held, at which there hsd been an average atten dance of 27 members. The largest number (exclusive of visitors) present on any ono occasion had been 45, and tbe smallest 12. The programme had been satisfactorily carried out, the large majority of the contributors having faithfully observed their engagements. The associa tion was in a sound position financially, the receipts for the six months having amounted to £58, and the disbursements to £38, leaving a balance of £20' in hand. Amongst the expenses were included a Bum of £10 which had been transmitted to France as advance subscriptions for full files of French and Belgian newspapers, and a further Bum of £10 as an instalment on a large order for French standard works, the balance having been spent upon furniture, ront, stationery, printing, advertising, &c. There were still some arrears of subscrip tions, and a lengthy discussion ensued as to what should be done with the defaulters. Eventually the further considera tion of the matter was adjourned. I'he Secretary then proceeded to draw up the programme for the next six months, and before the meeting closed fully 30 names had been obtained for lectures, debates, essays, recitations, and dramatic recitals, while provision was also made for a soiree musiculc. Other intending con tributors to the programme are requested to send in their name, to the Secretary at once. The Association adjourned till Saturday, January 7th, when the President will opon the second half session with an amusing lecture,

I The Lincolnshire farmers shortly to be settled at To Aroha have purchased three 1 steam launches in England, Thoy will be placed on tho Waihoti Kiver,

The Rev. Alexander Held is.a passenger by the s.s, Alhambra, having returned to the colony from the Wcsleyan Methodist Ecumenical Council, recently held in London.

Wo are credibly informed that Mr Samuel Stephenson, whose application for a public- Ilottßb ht Mount Albert was refused weeks ago, purposes to Utilise his building as a working men's club.

Ono man's error constituted the business before J. M. Dargaville, Esq., J.P., at the Police Court this morning. The old man was William Hatt, and it being his second "drunk" within a few days, ho was fined 103 and costs.

A sailing race between tho small open boats Elsie cud Dbvonport, belonging res pectively to Messrs F, Duder and Oliver, was to have taken place on Saturday after noon, but was unavoidably postponed until some evening this Week.

All inquest o_ the body' of Mr Donis Markham, killed under circumstances staled in Friday's issue, Was held on Satur day afternoon before Dr Philson and a jury, of whom Mr W. Wall was chosen foreman. After hearing the evidence, thejury returned a verdict of " Accidental death.1'

To the Editor : Sir,—Can you inform me if the dogs will require collars next year, as I have not seen tenders advertised for.— Yours, &c., FAIItPLAY. [Yes.—EU. E.S.]

Professor Tamburini will appear this evening iv tho Albert Hall with an entirely now programme, including a series of fresh illusions and spiritualistic and mesmeric seances, closing with a quadrille party under clliciont management, We notice that tho Saturday evening performances were much better attended.

Tno evening service at the Thoatro Royal last evening Was not largely attended. The chair was occupied by Mr Thos. Buddie. Addresses wero deliverod by the Hoy. Thomas Hodgson and Mr Blade. Tho chairman announced that a special Christ mas service would be held on Sunday even ing next

To the Editor i Sir,—Will you kindly inform tho enquirer through yoltr paper if a team of unoriginal crickoter. have been from Australia to England? What year? How many wont, ana who was the captain ? -[About eighteen years ago, a team of twelve aboriginal crickotors went from Australia to England. They were cap tained by Mr C. Lawrence, professional c ickctor, of Surroy.-Ed, E.S.]

Hcrr Carl Schmttt begs to thank the committee of the Choral Society for the free use of tbe hall on the occasion of his matinee musicalo on Saturday last, the members of tho orchestra for their kind ser vices, the " Herald " and STAR for free ad vertising, and nil the ladies and gentlemen who, by their kind help, have enabled him to give the matineo without incurring any expense whatever,

Tho Government contemplate increasing telegraphic facilities in tho province by erecting about a dozen new stations. Among others ono is to be opened.at Paeroa (Ohiue muri), and another at Turua on the river Thames, Iv the western portions of the city and Fonsonby tho Tolo"rap_ic Depart ment aro erecting the poles for the line connecting tho proposed North Shore cable with the city line,

It is now certain that tho English eric koting team will visit Auckland at the cud of January or beginning of February of next year. The terms asked by tho Can terbury Cricket Association were so high that doubts were very freely expressed re garding the probability of New Zealand be ing iucluded iv the tour. This uncertainty has been sot at rest by tho arrangement of

a three days' match against tho cricketers ot the Cathedral City. Local players are re quested to bo steady in their practice, as the selection of a team will shortly be made.

Mrs Bernard Moore, having completed her first course of lectures ou nursing, in Ouehunga, proposes to begin another course of four lectures during January, 1882. Her especial object is to show tbo.se whoso houses are small, aud means limited, how much may be dono for the comfort aud wcl turo of the nick, by the use of common sense, and such appliances as nro to bo found iv tho humblest homes. Auy desirous of becoming good nurses may learn much that is most valuable, and would do woll to give their names to Mr Steveußon, Queen-street, Onchuuga, who will supply any information they may desire.

The Bth of Octobor was the tenth anniver sary of tho Chicago lire. In that calamity ot thirty-six hours, 2,124 acres wero burned over, .7,460 buildings were destroyed, 98.8G0 persons wero rendered homeless— 300 of them losing their lives-and the total valuo of burned property of all kinds was placed at £39,000,000. Yet in a single decado all this has been replaced and more. Tho value of the buildings destroyed in Octobor, 1871, was estimated at £10,000,000. while thoso newly built, up to thia October, aro esti mated at moro than £30,000,000. The lost ones were largely of wood; thoso that replace them are of brick, stone, or iron,

Mr J. Phillips, who for many yoars has carried on tho business of a clothier in Queen-street, is about to erect threo houses and chops on tho site of the four wooden ones at present occupied by tho owner, Mr Hazard and others. The plans, prepared by Messrs Keals and Son, shew that the proposed buildings will be in keep ing with those of Mows Rattray and Mason Ilros., and will give a completeness and beauty to this part of Queen-street, Mr Phillips has shewn us the plans of the new shops, which will be 20 feet wide by 75 deep. We understand that two out of throo of tho shops aro already let. Ten ders for the erection of the new block will be called for in a few days, Mr Phillips will retire from tho clothing business.

Commander John P. Chcyne of the Royal Navy, who has accompanied three expedi tions on a search for (Sir John Franklin, inteuds, in company with Lieutenant Schwatka, to pass over that frigid, imper turbable North Pole iv a balloon, next spring. He is going over it, and is going to descend upon Russian soil on the other oidc. He is determined that the North Pole shall no longer be a disturber of the peace of modern geographers. It is not as fixed, in its mocking defiance, as it bas been until now, when a triumphant bal loon is, despite of warring elements, to sail grandly over it, and relieve it of it prestige for over. Ho is determined to know what it is—whether magnetic or un attractive; whether it is surrounded by waters enlivened by sporting whales, or whether it is the congenial home of land birds, who must eat as well as fly.

There appears to have been some good humoured banter at the declaration of the poll for Waipa. According to the " Wai kato Mail," "in reply to an after remark from Mr Johns, Major Jackson said that ho did not wish to impute unworthy motives to Mr Johns, or that he was in collusion with Mr Whitaker, but tbe fact remained that but for Mr Johns's candidature Mr Whitaker must have been defeated, and that he thought tho next election would con clusively show this. Mr Johns took excep tion to Major Jackson saying it was by a side-wind that ho was beaten. He was as long a resident of the district as Major Jackson and was quite as honest. He ran to win. If he (Mr Johns) had not ran it was quite true Major Jackson would havo beaten tho winning candidate: Mr Whitaker, amidst some laughter, callod for throo cheers for Mr Johns, which were given wtth great heartiness, especially by Mr Whitaker's supporters. Three cheers also were given for Mr Whitaker, Major Jack son, and tho Returning Officer."

The Russian cruiser Africa was thrown open to the public yesterday afternoon, and until about six o'clock in the evening was crowded both on upper and lower decks. The ferry steamers Tainui and Takapuna, aud the s.s. Mary Allen wero running every ten minutes, and on each occasion were packed to over-crowding. The officers and crew of the vessel wero told oil' to explain the various objects of interest, and not withstanding the difficulty experienced ia the peculiarities of the Russian language, they succeeded very well in amusing their visitors. Among tho visitors were several members of the Naval Brigade under Captain Leßoy, who attended iv uniform. About 9 o'clock in the evening a splendid exhibition of tho electric light was given. In anticipation of the brilliant sight, both the railway and Queen-street wharves were crowded with persons, while a ferry steamer, with a large number of passengers, lay alongside of the Africa. The electric light was first directed towards the Qncen-street wharf, and looking from the ferry steamer the people could be plainly seen waving hats, while cheer upon cheer burst forth in token of admira tion. Thence the light was thrown over the town and right around the harbour, the points of prominence and vessels in port being plainly visible. The view was one of the most novel and beautiful which the re sidents of Auckland have had the pleasure of witnessing for some time, and one which will certainly tend to popularise the electric light here.

Tho Orient steamer Cotopaxi mado the run from Melbourne to Sydney in thirty-six hours forty-eight minutes. The P. and O. new steamer Home made the run in thirty seven hours thirty minutes.

The war schooner Beagle has arrived nt Sydnoy, from the South Soas, bringing in telligence that a native chief supposed to bo implicated in tho murder of Kloinsmidt, a German naturalist, at tho Duke of York Island, has been captured by Mr Parrel, an English trader, The Beagle did not in terfere, as the Germans have taken the affair in hand.

Our volunteer's will bo rejoiced to learn that the Government havo determined to pay a capitation fee of £2 per man this year for all who have attended tho requisite number of parades, instead of the paltry £1 per man that was allowed last year. Inti mation to this effect has reached head quarters in Auckland, and in due course will be formally announced.

The lirst contest in the North Shore " trial fours " will be rowod off about 5 o'clock this evehing, No. 1 crew against No. _, the former comprising Messrs E. W. Burgess, W. Greenwood, W. Sibbin, and A. Buchanan, and the latter Messrs J. Sims, F. O'Connor, G. Rcid, and E. (Jaick.

That well-known Australian writer Mr Julian Thomas-" Tho Vagabond "—has written an account of his recent travels in Chiua, Japan, and British Columbia, which is now appearing in the "Argus" and "Australasian." It will be revised and published in book-form, under the title " Jccidont nnd Orient; Sketches on both tides af the Paciiic."

No further seizures of unstamped beer and cigars have been mado by tho Customs authorities beyond those reported in our Saturday evening's Issue, Tho tour of the city and suburbs was completed on the second day, and all the alleged contraband goods were stored in the cellar of the Custom-house, Informations under the Act wero to havo been laid to-day, and the cases will probably come on for hearing during the latter part of the present week.

It is estimated that this year tho quan tity of wine in Prance will amount to 704,000,000 gallons, which will bo an in crease over last year of G6,000,000 gallons. The claret this" season promises to be of excellent quality, nnd to exceed in quan tity the average of tho last live years by 12,000,000 pallous. Prices, however, which exceed by a half what they were in 1575, aro not expected to diminish until soiuo means be devised for stopping the ravages of the phylloxera.

Tho returns for the Whau riding election at the several polling places are as follow : —Mount Albert-Garrctt, 22 ; Digna_, 17. Whau—Oarrett, 39; Dignan, 1. Mount Hoskill—Garrett, 5 ; Dignan, 20. Totals, Garrett, 66; Dignan, 38; majority for Garrett, 28. The membership of the new Eden Couuty Council is as follows :-Ep som Riding, Bichard Udy ; Grafton Rid ing, Prancis Cherry ; Newton Riding, J. li. Field and Thomas Maselield ; Parnell Riding—Robert Charles Carr and John Jenkins ; Tamaki Riding, Barton Ireland ; Whau Riding, Robert Garrett.

There iB on view at Mr King's chemist shop, a portion of a bee-hive taken by Mr G. Elliott, railway guard, at his gardon, Mercer. The bees were only hived on 6th Novomber, in one of the hives mado by the Sash and Door Company. Tho whole is now quite full, each compartment contain ing honey of about 21bs. in weight. The product of about six weeks is most sur prising.

The marriage of Mr J. C. Colbeck, of tho Bank of New Zealand, and Mits Butler was consummated this afternoon in St. Paul's Church by tho Rev. C. M. Nelson.in the pretence of a large number of the con gregation, choir, Sunday-school teachers, and friends. Miss Butler was a zealous teacher in tho Sunday-school, and greatly esteemed for her many amiable qualities by all who had the pleasure of her acquain tance. The happy couple will leave at once for Maungawbare, to which township Mr Colbeck has been transferred by the Bank.

According to an nrtiole in the last " British Quarterly Rcviow,"entitled "The I'ast nnd Puturo of the Conservative Party," the great task of the party in tho future ia to bo the preservation of " Social Order." The party ia henceforth to bo an association for tbe dofence of the " Society of tho British Empire" against the machina tions of the Radicals, whoso aim is to destroy Social Order and to break up the Empire, Coming down to the region of pratical politics, tho writer would havo the prneranirno of the party embrace a Customs Union witbin the British Empire, and Ash mead Bartlott's Bchcme, or a similar one, for the representation of the colonies in the House of Commons. These seem to be tho most original features of the programme, other parta of which, as the extension of household suffrage nnd the system of local government, nro but planks borrowed from the Liberal platform.

On Friday next, the 23rd instant, the Argyl- makes her first trip to Parua Bay, near \\ rhangarei, one ot the most picturcfque bush coves on the whole const-lino of the colony. Tho bay is completely land-locked, and has an environment of forest-clad hills, At this season of tbe year tho blood-red flowers of tho pohutakawa form a pleasing contrast to the emerald green of the nikau and tree fern. Tho ever placid waters, as still as thoso of a mountain lake, mirror the picturosquo sur roundings, while the music of the numer ous miniature cascades assists in making the spot a desirable change for those needing a few days' severance from the grindingjroutine of city life. Visitors will find excellent accommodation at the hotel of Mr Harnett, and also at tho residences of Mrs Macdonald and othor settlers. For the information of parties visiting the Bay in their own vessels, it may be said that they can go safely into the wharf on a direct course from tho entrance of the Bay at high water, providing their vessel does not draw moro than eight feet. At low water the same class of vessel should take the deep wator channel to the south-east of a red buoy, lately placed arthe end of the bank that runs from an island at tho northern entrance of tho Bay to the buoy. All vessels going in should form a half circle round said buoy, and then straight up tho Bay to the wharf,

From all accounts tho wonderful Koh-i ---noor, or "Mountain of Light," the property of hor Britannic Majesty, is eclipsed by a recently discovered diamond found in South Africa, and now in posses sion of Mr Porter-Rhodes, who is, I believe, tho fortunato discoverer of the gem. The weight of tho newly-found stono is 150 carats. It is uncut, but from its peculiarly favourable shape is not expected to lose more than ten carats during tho process. The diamond is as big ub a very |largo walnut and is described ib "like a hail stone in sunlight of a bewitching transpar ency and brilliant whiteness no other precious metal can vie with." Moat Cape diamonds are of an inferior yellowish tinge, which detracts from tho value of the stones, but this epecimen is not only the largest ever discovered, but of a purity unsurpassed by any of its compeers. The stone was recently shown to the Princo of Wales at Marlborough House, and bis best diamonds, when placed beside the Porter-Bhodes Btono, were seen to bo " off colour." Offers for his property flow in upon tho lucky owner irom all parts of Europe. The first offor received waß £50,000; tho last made was £100,000. The owner's banks, I hear, are willing to advance £60,000 against the security. The stono will not, it is thought, change hands under £200,000, which is just £60,000 moro than the famous Kob-i ---noor is valued at. Mr Porter-Rhodes asks tho trilling sum of £300,000, for his pro perty, and does not seem in any hurry to dispose of it. It is rumoured that a Rus sian prince is in treaty for the jewel.

An Englishman's house ia his castle, and he is popularly believed to bo justified in taking extreme measures against unlawful ingrcsß on the part of his neighbour, although whether he might go the length of shooting is perhaps an open question. A publican's licensed premises, however, aro generally considered less difficult of en trance, oven if bolted and barred, and it is doubtful if the licensee who proceeds to tho extremity of shooting an intruder haslaw on his eide. The question will have a chance of being discussed at the next criminal sessions, in Dunedin, as the following ex tract from tho Cromwell "Argus" will show:-" Thomas H. Byron was charged on the information of Thomas Thornton with unlawfully and maliciously wounding on 10th Nov. by shooting at him with a loaded gun. Ann Byron Shade was charged with being accessory to the Baid wounding, Mr Wilson, for accused, reserved the defence. From the depositions taken it appears that Thornton was in tho Mount Pisa Hotel on tbe date in question, and was ejected therefrom about midnight for making use of low and abusive lan guage. Ho kicked a panel of tbe door in and smashed a window, and Mrs Shade was so alarmed that she told her son to shoot at Thornton's legs through the broken door. This he did, aud some of the pellets lodged in hie leg. Byron and Mrs Shade were committed, for trial mean time being admitted to bail,"

The band of the Russian cruiser Africa came on shore to-day, and proceeded by 'bus to Remuera, where they perform for the benefit of visitors to the Mayor's garden party.. Mr Samuel Worm?, a prominent member of the order ot Good Templars, died this afternoon at his residence, Newton, after a protracted and painful illness. The allotments on Mount St. Mary which Avore sold some time ago, are being rapidly built upon, and at the present time there are about twenty pretty cottages either finished or in course of construction on tho hill. A larger number of houses are also being erected in othor parts of the district.

The funeral of Miss Cecelia Agnes Loner gan, a girl of t« elve years, who died at her father's residence in Wyndham-street on Saturday last, took place this afternoon. Beautiful wreaths and bouquets of flowers covered the coffin. The Children of Mary, of which Society deceasod was a member, formed part of the funeral cortege.

A road has been formed as _ bridle track from the western bank of the "Waikato River, near the Waikato Coal Company's mine, for a distance of 9£ miles, and w now to be continued on to the large block of Government land which is to be opened up under the deferred payment system. This land is of first-rate quality, well watered and timbered, and the road laid out by Mr Blytho is of easy gradient. The settlers will have easy access to the river, and Huntley railway station, as it is intended that the road will open up the country right through to the West Coast, about 16 miles Morth of Raglan harbour. The road from Churchill to block eight, Awaroa, has been surveyed by Mr Palmer, to give access to tho Government land lying about nine miles from Waikato river, A portion of the road has been made by contract, and about six miles made by day labour, and is now completed to the commencement of the Government land, which is already surveyed, and was offered for sale in 1879 and 1880, but no one would make an offer, as tho land was inaccessible. Tho land is of superior limestone and bush, and will now meet with a ready sale.

HERR SCHMITT'S CONCERT.

The concert projeoted by Herr Carl Schmitt for tho purpose of raising funds wherewith to provide some cheer for the bedridden, decrepit, or suffering inmates of the Hospital and Old Men's Refuge, during the ensuing Christmas season, took place in the Choral Hall on Saturday afternoon, and, despite the inclemency of the weather, was very well attended indeed. The pro gramme prepared for the occasion had the dual merit of being moderate in length and choice in character, the majority of the items figured upon it being the best selec tions from the two conceits given during the season by the orchestra and the leading vocalists of the Choral Society. They were admirably rendered. The vocal gem of the concert was Mias Fenton's rendering of a berceuse by Gounod,with violin obligato by Ucrr Schmitt, the finished execution of the lady being us remarkable as the delicate instrumentation, especially in the pianissimo passages, of the violinist. The number was, of course, encored. Miss Blea.ard also sang, with decided effect, Ganz's " Sing.Sweet Bird," and obligingly complied with the recall which fol lowed. Mrs Hayncs gave a pretty aong by Molloy entitled "Clochetto," and Mr Brett Bang with spirit "The Gauntlet." These vocal selections weic very successful. The part Bongs were likewise correctly aud pleasingly performed. The "Carnovale," with its rapid vocalisa tion, " went" remarkably well, while those for male voices only, vi-., " Hark, the Merry Drum," and "I he Three Chafers," evoked tbe loud and hearty applause of the audience. The best of the instrumental selections were tho duct " Cenerentola," by Herr Schmitt (violin) and Mr Angelo Forrest (piano), and tho overture " Poete ct Paysau" (Suppe) by the band. The duet was splendidly played, and enthu siastically eucored. The performance of the overture was also highly meritorious, and bo, too, was the execution of the majestic and etately inarch from "Tannhiiuser." The other contributions ot the orchestra were the overture to " Masaniello," and one of Uungl's valses, viz., "Delaware Kliinge." Both were well rendered. The concert generally was an effective one, and the audience seemed gratified with their afternoon's treat. The proceeds amounted to £20 Gs, and as there are no expenses to be deducted—the Choral Society giving the use of tbe hall, the performers their active asstance, and the newspapers and Messrs Atkin, Upton and Co., and Champtaloup and Cooper, the printing and advertising gratuitously—a cheque for the full amount has been forwarded to Dr. Philson for equal division between the Hospital and Refuge. Herr Schmitt in particular, and his co-workers in general, deserve every credit for their kindly con. Bideration and well-directed beneficence.

SCINTILLATIONS.

"Bo brief, for it is with words as with sunbeams: the moro thoy ore condensed the deopor thoy burn."—Soutuey.

The Otago Art Society opened the annual exhibition of paintings on Saturday. A Philadelphia debating society has decided that on frosty mornings buck wheat cakes are superior to liver pads.

The growth of Protestantism in Japan is shown by tho reports of a church conference held in Kioto in May, at which there were delegates from sixteen Congregational churches, eighteen ministers on the plat form, and an audience of si- thousand,

Robertson concluded his recitals at Duncdin on Saturday night. They have been, throughout, a success. A smoke-consumer for chimneys has come into use in Cincinnati. Wonder if the inven tion couldn't be applied to yonng men who smoke cigarettes in the street 'busses.

From the Baptist mission among the Chinese of Siam the news comes that at Petreii, seventy-five miles from Bangkok, tho Chinese pastor baptized twenty-four persons of that village, and on the follow ing day twenty-six others. The privileges of tho Thames Jockey Club races, to be held on December 2t/ih and 27th, wero Sold by Mr R. McGregor for the total sum of £256 ss. The gates alone realised £126.

Bric-a-brac is defined as anything in the crockery line that is absolutely use less, set upon the mantel where it will be in the way.

The Supreme Court at Nelson opened on Saturday. True bills were found against Hugo Roits, forgery, and Wirenra Api, for indecent assault on a Maori child. Roits pleaded guilty, and was sentcuced to twelve months. Api was acquitted. "It's a disgraceful shame," exclaimed Mrs Smith, as her lord and master came in in a demoralised condition. " You've been drinking again, and it was only last week that you took the pledge." "Just my luck," said Smith, " break everything I get hold of." Ancient manuscripts of the complete He brew Biblo aro now owned by the British Museum, The Hagiographa, which makes the set complete, was found among fifteen manuscripts of portions of thoso Scriptures, recently purchased in Southern Arabia. Two of these manuscripts are said to be the oldest that have yet come to light. School-mistress (just beginning a nice improvement lesson upon minerals to tho juniors): " Now, what aro the principal things we get out of the earth?" Youthful angler.aged four, confidently : "Worms." A number of officials connected with the Imperial Court have been placed on tbeir trial for having neglected to take proper precautions for the safety of the late Emperor Alexander the 11., who was as sassinated at St. Petersburg on March 13.

Mr Kobert Willar, a young man residing in North Tsieri, Otago, accidentally shot himself on Saturday. He was going down stairs with a loaded rifle In bis hand on his way to the target, when the charge ex- Eloded, the bullet entering his jaw and illing him instantaneously. "There," said Miss Dashie, as she sealed a letter addressed to her lover, " that isn't very bright, but it will do for him. Lovers are all alike. If you only write to them, they don't care a snap what you say." Mr Bourke, representative of the Turk ish bond-holderp, has induced the Commis sioners for the liquidation of the Ol toman debt to secure the bond-holders £15,000, which interest on the nominal amout sub scribed is equivalent to about 11.2 per cent.

Tho Council of Administration of Russia have expressed themselves satisfied that the Turkish Government can offer them sufficient prospects of ultimately liquidat ing the war indemnity, payable under the treaty of San Stefano, to justify the aban donment of the sehemo to obtain an equiva lent in territory iv Armenia,

THE SHIP MAY QUEEN AFLOAT.

Messes C-UIC-SHANI- & Co., agents for tho ship May Queen, received tho follow ing telegram from the captain to-day:— "The May Queen floated off with this morning's tide. The Staffa arrives this afternoon, and will tow her np." Tho place where the vessel grounded is all sand, and she will probably have sustained no damage whatever by her mishap.

SPORTING NEWS.

[BY AKGUS],

No Jupiter quidom omnibus placot.

I HAVE hitherto refrained from say ing anything about the chances of the various candidates for the Steeplechase to be run on Tuesday, 3rd ot Jan., for the reason that tho horses are so scattered over the country (as, by the way, I expect they will be on the day, if the course be not changed) as to make it a very difficult matter to get any ilcaa3 to how they are going. As the time is now drawing near when it will be expected of me to give tho public a little line to go by, 1 will take them in their order by weight, and do my best to point out the strength or weakness, aa the case may be, of the different horses. To begin.then: The first thing I notice is tbe probability there exists that this will be one of the best contested events that has ever come off on our course, as such horses as Clarence (the hero of this year's Grand National), Lone Hand, King Don, Sportsman, and Matau, are not likely to surrender the contest without a struggle, while some of the lighter weights, Young Kledmerc to wit, will be very hard to shake off, Clarence (12st.) by Ravens worth, is top weight, and is al_tost as well known in the South as the redoubtable Agent; indeed, there arc not wanting those who say that he would have beaten the latter in the New Zealand Grand National at Oamaru, even had Agent not fallen, as it was the pace at which he was forced to go, by Clarence pushing so hard, that caused him to strike the fence instead of clearing it. Clarence is a big strapping bay gelding, with a long ugly head, which be carries in a drooping sort of style, as if he waa thinking very hard. He shows any amount of bone and substance, has very high quarters, and immense power behind. He has shown his speed ou tho flat by winning the Maiden Plate at the Geraldino meeting, in September, 1880, carrying 9st. 61bs , and beating three others. In Decem ber last, at the Oamaru Jockey Club meet ing, he got second to Randwick in the Publican's Pune, 1_ miles, being only beaten on the post, in 2mins. 46_secs. He has since been principally engaged in hurdle races and across country, and has given a proof that he can carry weight by winning the Consolation Stakes at the Chrißtc_'irch Hunt Club meeting, with no loss than 14st. 4lbs. on his back. This horse is no end fit, and bar accidents, should win.

Lone Hand everybody knows. His weight of 12st, will not stop him if he will fence correctly, and if he docs so there is not the shadow of a doubt but that be will make Clarence do his level best, He is also very ripe, and seemed to enjoy his work, though I have not seen him out for several days, report says on account of tender feet. Matau (by Dainty Ariel) list. 21ba., if in his old form, would be just about right,-but he has a leg, and though fancied by a few, will find.tbat his day is past, and the company too hot for him. Sportsman (list.) though as game as possible, and a grand fencer, will not be able to keep company after the first round. King Don (list.) the Wanganui veteran, is fairly fit, and if his legs keep sound, will trouble any thing that wins, but I am afraid he will find the pace rather trying at the latter end, ' I expect him to get a place, perhaps; but no more. Morning Star (lOst. Sib?,) will most likely bean absentee. Hawthorne (lOst.) is not fit to race. He looks as if he wanted a square feed of oats more than anything. Rawenata (lOst.) has been going to do a stroke for some time, but somehow it has not come off yet; here is a chance if ever it is to be done, but I don't think the gelding will accept it. Young Sledmere (lOst.) is a game little chap with a decent turn of speed, and won the Pakuranga Hunt Club steeplechase, like a racehorse, but he will bo out of place with such catile as Clarence and Lone Hand. Harkaway (lOst.) will be likewise. I will give my final pick on a future occa sion.

The weights for tho Takapuna J.C. races appeared on Saturday. Mr Percival, the handicapper, appears to have made a very fair job of it, especially in (lie jump ing races, though I think it hardly likely that Rfendwick will go over to give Kenil worth 181b8., and Envy filly and Moonstone 2st. each in the Cup. Lone Hand has been scratched for his Takapuna engagemeuts. Moonstone, Kewi, and King Don, did a slashing gallop this morning. Maori was again an absentee. He requires a lot of care to keep his legs and feet cool. Bads worth and Foul Play did a burst once round, tho latter pulling off before enter ing the straight. Bis companion came on pretty fast, but props like a goat. Hilda and Poet went twice round at a pretty good pace, the mare pulling away from the chestnut. The money is going on Hilda since.

DUNEDIN AUTUMN MEETING.

Ddnkdin, Sunday. The following are the acceptances for tbe Autumn Meeting:— Uukdlk Handicap.—-gent, Rocket, Dat.br, Marlbyrnong. Clarence, Isaac, Cargcss, Turk, Sailor Boy, Blush Rose, Trovatore. Dunbdin Cup.—Foul Play, Pi»catorJus, 'Amulet, Lady Kmma, King Quail, La Mode, Hilda, Castanette, Libeller. Nonpareil, Brenda, b c by Caßsivclannas-Diana, Sir George, Tho Dauphin. Gorton. Titanla, ChanceUor, Matakau, Kandwlck, BadßWortb, Tasman, The Poet. Pudlio-ns' Handicap.—Chancellor, Luna, Lady Kmma, Gorton, Titanla, La Mode, Hilda, Nautilus, Nonpareil, Adamant, Flour do Lys, Squire; Mameluke.

SCHOOL EXAMINATIONS.

The Henderson's Mill school examination took place on Wednesday, 11th December, 1881, and was held in the school-room. A lull committee waa present, and the eohool-room being well filled with tho parents and friends of the child ren, tho Hoy Mr SommerviUe, from the Whau, examined them, and Mr Baxter kindly assisted him in judging and awarding the marks, and Madame Hueston and Mr Baxter judgod the writing from their oopy books 1 he Rev Mr Som merviUe addressed the children. The Chairman then proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Sommer viUe for his kindness in giving his time and taking tho trouble to help to bring the ohildren forward by these examinations. Mr Baxter seconded It, and so did the ohildren and their friends by giving Mr Sommervdle threo hearty cheers. They also gave the teacher, Chalr man,and Committee three cheers, and broke up (or the fields and woods to their annual picnic. Prizes. — sth Class: Miss Katie Uuncan, Ist prize, and Master A. W. Hepburn,2nd prize, awarded for all general subjects j 3rd class: Mlbh Elizabeth Malam, Ist prize, ond Master Percy Hurrell, 2nd prize, awarded for all general subjects; 2nd olasa : Miss Lottie Stebblngß, Ist prizo, and Master Frank Malam, 2nd prize, awarded for all general s-bjeots; lBtclaBs: Master Willy Hulaton, awarded the prize for writing, and also the prize for arithmetic; 6th class: Map Drawing, Miss Katie Dunoan, Ist prize, Eliza Laurie, 2nd prize; Freehand Draw ing, Master Robt. Laurie, Ist prize; 3rd class: Map Drawing, Master Robt. Laurie. Ist prize, Pieroy Hurrell, 2nd prizo; Freehand Drawing. Arthur Stebblngs, Ist prize; Frizes for good attendance, Misses Eliza Laurie and Rlizaboth Malam, and Masters Robert Laurie, Matthew Laurie, John Laurie, Frank Malam, George Malam, Willy Hepburn.

ENTERTAINMENT AND DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZE AT ONEHUNGA.

On Saturday ovenlcg last, thero was a large gathering of parents and children at the publlo sohool-room. Onehunga. The Chairman of tho School Committee, Mr C.C. Fleming, conducted tho business of the evening, and then presented tho prizes won at the recent school examination —28 for general suhjeots, and 6 for sewing. Mr J. Gane, on behalf ot the scholars, pre sented to Mr and Mrs Grant, tbo head-teachers, a very handsome flower-stand and a pair of vase?, as a token ot the esteem in which the children held tbem, and in a tew suitable remarks, begged their acceptance of tho presents as an acknowledgment o( their hearty on doavocrs to Impart education.—The Key. Mr Mulgan followed on tbo same subject, and as one of tho examiners of tho school, expressed his ploasuro at the progress of the children. -A lengthy prom-ammo was then gone through, connlsting of piano selections, songs, readings, and recitations by tho children. Messrs Gradwell and CranweU contributed several songs In their customary acceptable manner. Tho chairman wound up the evening's business by a few remarks, impressing upon the children their duty .as the future men and women of tbe colony N touße all their great advantages well, so that 10 or 60 years hence, a stupid old man or woman would not be found. The meeting waa then closed by the tinging of the National Anthem,

There are two foreign missionary synods (India and China) with five presbyteries each, and five other presbyteries in the foreign hold, viz. : Corisco, West Africa, Kio de Janeiro, Oroomiah and Siam. In these fifteen presbyteries are 116 ministers, 112 churches,and 5,926 communicants. The custom of carrying arms has become so general and caused so many crimes in Paris that the Chief of Police has deter mined to enforce the law of 1859, which for bids the manufacture, sale, purchase, car rying or use of daggers, dagger-knives, pocket pistols, sword-canes, and other arms,

CABLEGRAMS.

IRKUTKR'S Telegrams.]

AMERICA AND THE PANAMA

CANAL. LONDON, December 16.

A despatch from tho United States Secretary of State to Mr Russell Lowell Minister to London, on tho subject of the projected Panama Canal, is published to-day. Mr Blame dwells in forcible lan guage on the South American interests ia the Pacific, and draws attention to the solicitude which has been shown by Eng. land to control the route to India ,via the Suez Canal. He asserted ihe right \el the United States against that of European Powers to control the Isthmus of Panama and pointed out that such a control would ■ offer absolutely the neutrality of the canaL The despatch concluded by stating that the claim of America cancelled everything which might be deemed to forbid her fortify, ing her control of tbe projected highway be tween the Atlantic and Pacific.

AUSTRALIAN.

SYDNEY, this day. Arrived : Yesterday afternoon steamship "Wakatipu from Wellington.

MORE SMALL-POX.

Two fresh cases of small-pox in Wooloo. mooloo have been reported to the Health Board.

ENGLISH CRICKET MATCH. MELBOURNE, Dec. 17.

The cricket match, between the English team and an eleven of Victoria, was re sumed to-day. The attendance was large, though the weather was showery dunng the day, and, owing to the rain, the cricket was not so lively as yesterday. The Vic torians continued their first innings, which closed for 251. Edwards made 65, The fielding of the Englishmen was weak. The latter then went in tor their first innings, and all wore disposed of for 146. Bates was caught for 42, Scotton bowled for 28, and Shaw caught for 23. The Englishmen being 105 behind the Victorians, followed their innings, and when tbe stumps were drawn for the day they had put together 47 for the loss of two wickets. Selby was caught for 32,

BRISBANE, this day. FATAL RAILWAY ACCIDENT.

A trolly, in which two labourers were asleep, was run into by the train neat Dalby, and both men were killed,

NEWS FROM WAIMATE.

(BY TEL-GRAPH.—OWN COREE-POND-H-,)

THE MONTHLY MEETING.

PUNGAREHU, this day. The monthly meeting on Saturday waa the bare shadow of former gatherings, the cele bration of Te Whiti's great day being con- | fined to an assembly in silence and au attempt at the usual feasting. Probably $1 fear of arrest prevented anyone from .§1 speaking. It was anticipated by the authorities that a large gathering .yj would ensue at some places along the coast, and mounted men were despatched to the various settlements, but no euch assembly was found. Nevertheless the day was observed by every tribe aeons- i tomed to visit Parihaka as a day of rest and 1 jj feasting. The men who came from Ngatiru-.i anui aro engaged weeding their cultiva tions. The goods of natives taken from the pah have been moved into tie new ', camp, tor better security against theft from | any Europeans. The owners show no alacrity in returning to claim them, only a small portion having been removed. The wires have been stretched from, ; Pungarehu to Parihaka. The office erected was opened for the first time this morning; "_ the construction part^r having worked very hard to complete communications. Mr Dabinett is in charge. The A.C.have been engaged improving tbe old road between these two places, and in making the new % one. Mr Bryce is expected _ere on a tour of inspection. The officers of the force are I beine gradually dispersed to various stations on the coast. The sentries who ■;: kept guard over the Parihaka village have been reduced, and free access to all is allowed, the consequence being that the pah is now singularly void of European visitors, the fruit not being for- yA bidden. As a precaution, a constable 1b * allowed outside the camp in private clothes, •■ The men are afraid of the many spies said to be employed by the authorities in Pari* ' I haka.

The survey of the whole of the land in the diatrict, native or Governments being pro ceeded with, and the policy of settlement will at last be carried out.

Many cartridges are found along tho public roads,said to bavo been dropped by volunteers. ' The weather is very wet

MINING NEWS.

Moana._i_-i.-15- feet level S.W. ot main cross-cut; No 9 f ootwall leader has been broken down this week. No gold was seen, but then is every indication visible tor It The con-try in 166 feet level on No. 9 hanging v,aU, orosi-cut leader, is still disordered by the Influence of slide and oroes course referred to in my lost. Stripping Is being carried on in the stopes at 80 feet level on the above leader. Hellet. seetion-IS2 feet level; A few pounds ot picked stone have been ob tained during the past week, and the leader maintains a likely appearance at present No. 3 footwall leader: Tunnel level has shewn a little gold since last reported on. The other points In operation throughout the mine are without any change to report-JO_- «*» Vivian. Deo. 17. '

CRICKET.

' ' , A.OB__tU> 0.0. V. UNIT_D. , The rain which tell during Saturday afternoon made flelding very difficult, while the ball was so greasy that good bowling was the exception. \ Consequently the Auokland Club, whioh went in first, ran up the score with ease. When the stumps were drawn, Aye wickets were down ' -.'. or 102, but the match will be played out next Saturday. The scores are as follow :— Auckland O.O.—Robinson, o Testro. b lank* ham, sen., 37; O'Brien, b Lankham, junr.. 18; . - Dixon, not out, 30; Horsbrugh, run out, 2: Dewes, o W. Dnfaur, b Lankham, jnnr., 11: Yates, lbw, b Lankham, junr., 11; extras, at total for fi wiokets, 103. K. Beale. A. Bern ■.-■ Buckland. Cameron, and Blndon to bat. ALPHA V. WHAU USION. AXPHA.-JaokSo_. b Archibald. 6; Edmiston, | o Sinolalr. b Bollard, 0; Hay, lbw, b Bollardjl; a Cutler, run out, b Bollard, 7; MoDei-mott, run , ' out, b Arohtbaid, 0; Perston, b Archibald, 1: -:;; Cranch, b Lawrence, 6; Spencer, o WaUace, D Slnoloir, 1; White, not out, 12; KupatrioJc, B J Bollard. 1; Wild, b Lawrence, 6; extras, 9; • What) Union.—Lawrence, b Kilpatrick, 2; Harvey, b KUpatriok, 4 : Wallaoo, c MoDermott* b KUpatriok, 0; Arohibald. b Cutler, 4; E. Bollard, o Wild, b KUpatriok. 1; John SincUlr run out, b Kilpatrlo., 2; J. Bollard, b KU. Patrick, 0; Jamua Sinolalr, b -ilpatriok, 6; D. .; Archibald, o Spenoer, b Jaokson. 5. W, Buchanan, b KUpatriok, 0; James Buchanan, not out, 1; total, 27. Gordon O.C. v. Onkhonoa UarrjiD O.C. 2nd > a Klkvrn.

'this match wob played in the Domain on S»turday, and reaulted in a drawn game, greatly in favour of Onehunga. Sutherland batted and bowled well for Onehunga. The foUowing are the scores:— _■-,_■■'• '4 OK-H.NGA.-Howard, 8; Harris, 3; Bast wood, 4; Jeffrey, 5; Mooney. 6; Hunt, 8; Brown, 12 Sutherland, 21: Barr. not oat, 5: Beaver*, run ont, .; GUm_n, 2; extras, 1. GoRDOK.-Ludbrook, 2; KissUng, 3; Kybujn, 2;. Canavan, 5: Sykos, 9; Ansenno. 6; Mp- Causland, 0; Clayton. 6; Gould, not eufe 6; Slmms, not out, 3; Klasllng, junr,, to bat, -, extras, 3. Total, 13.

AUCKLAND SHAREMARKET.

D-CBMBEB 19. Bank of N.Z.--23; buyers, m 15s Colonial Bank-Sellers. «8s 6d NZ. Insurance—B2s 6d; seUers, Sis Cd 8.8. Inguranee-598 <Jd «.- »_ Union Sash and Door-Buyers, £7 3s 6d Auckland Timber—Sellers, til N. 2. Loan and MercantUe—Sellers, &S 2s 6d Northern B.S. Co.—Sollers, 12s 6d Fisher and Co—Buyers, Us; tollers, 12b Moanataiari G.M. Company—Sellers, 10b Gd Albumia—Bnyerß, 10s Bobs (West Coast)— Sellers, 20l JOSEPH NEWMAN. Chairman.

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, MONDAY. DECEMBER 19.



BUN PIKE OFFICE, LONDON ESTA-USHKD 1710. Lwurauc-s iiffocted upon almost o-»ery des cription of Proporty at the Current Ratos of Pro luluma. Total aura lisured, 1879, £262,192,461. Claims arranged by tho Local Agent and paid ? With promptitude and liberality. G. W. BINNKY, Agent, Queen-street, |_



Special Aaverußamentß. 1 SIDOR ALEXANDER'S . BPKOIALTIKB, FINE WATCHES I RICH JEWELLERY It ' . " ' CHOICE CLOCKS 111 AT LOWEST PRICES I 96, QUEEN-STREET, | AUCKLAND. MO L EiS KIN TROUSERS I MOLESKIN TROUSERS Blnoo tho AboUtlon of Duty on Piece Goods, THE NEW ZEALAND CLuTHING FACTORY ARE AGAIN TO THE FRONT, And can now supply tholr Customers with MOLESKIN TROUSERS At 25 % loss THAN USUAJ. W-OLEBAL- PRICK. TRY THKMIII To be had at all the Retail Branches of tho NEW ZEA-AND CLOTHING FACTORY. Auckland Branch : QUEEN-STREET (Opposite Thoatro Royal). And at Albert-street, Thames, /TREAT Jjl I R E AT T INABURY a QO.'S. THE ENTIRE STOCK MORE OR LESS DAMAGED, «A L E J^OW QN. WE MUST CLEAR OUT THE ENTIRE STOCK AT ANY PRICE, To make room for extensive repairs to Buildings. ' SHOP EARLY TO AVOID THE CRUSH. GARLICK & CR AN WELL still sell all Drapery and Clothlngon theCu-OPERA TIVE Cash Principle. Prices muoh 1 lower than If they did a credit business. 1 CITY HAI.L ARCADE. DRESS GOODS.—The greatest variety and a beautiful assortment Is to be found at our KBtabllehment, with Trimmings of various kinds to match, and sold at Co operative Cash Prices. GARLICK _ CRANWELL. ADKAS MUSLIN, Is 8d and Is 10d per yard; Coloured Lustres from 6d to 2a 3d, our own importing and s eclat good value: Black Silks at various prloes, but those at .9 3d nnd 5a 3d ore unusually cheap. GARLICK & CRANWELL. OURNING GOODS. — Black Cash-' meres. Crape Cloths, Balmorals, Drees and Bonnet Crapes, Mourning Goods, to suit all olaeßes ot Customers, at the City Hall Arcade. GARLICK & CRANWELL. fTMBRELLAS AND SUNSHADES.— _) Fashionable Sunshades, plain and fanoy, in satin and other kinds of coverings. Just opened, some very pretty Children's Parasols, We advise an early selection. GARLICK & CRANWELL. MANCHESTER GOODS.—Shectinß-, Catioos. Bed Quilts, Blankets; large lot of White Lace and Muslin Curtains. CITY HALL ARCADE. CIRETONNES.— Upwards of 60 patterns J to select from, some of them the hand somest In Auckland, varying in price from 8d to 3s 2d, Linings and Trimmings for'same, White and Fancy Dimities. GARLICK & CRANWELL. ILLINERY AND FANCY GOODS. —Large Stook of Trimmed Hats and Bonnets. Milliners on the premises to execute orders in best style and with desnatch. Straw Hats, all the leading Shapes, a capital line just opened at is. GARLICK & CRANWELL. £IANCY GOODS.—SiIk Mantles, Che nille Dolmans, Capes, Fancy Scarfs, Children's Fanoy Dresses, Feathers, Flowers, Underclothing, See. i all at low i cash prices. GARLICK & CRANWELL. { EN'S AND BOYS' CLOTHING.—A well-assorted stock at Co-operative Cash Prices, Men's Trousers and Veßts, Suits, Men's and Youths' Imperial Sao Suits, Boys' Tweed and Knloker Salts. Borne special lines in Trousers, Waistcoats, Sec, worth inspecting. p ARLICK & QRANWELL, CITY HALL ARCADE, Auckland, VTTILLIAM T> T>RIDGMAN, JUNCTION DRAPERY RWAREHOUSE. 100 pairs Ladles' Riding Gloves, slightly spotted, is 3d to 3a 2300 yards Now Pattorn Muslin Works, 2d, 2}d, 3}d, -id, to ls-much under usual price Large Variety New Galatea Stripes Very good line Men's Oxford Shirts, 11} to 17, 171 inch. 6s 8d; worth 8s fid Good Coloured Damask Table Covers, 8s Go", 7s 6d,Bs6d Linoleum, various widths, 4s 6d square yard Largo Btook of Coloured Shirtings, splendid value Toilet Covers in great variety 600 yards New Pompadour Prints, ijd; worth i 6Jd. Just opened, choice patterns 1500 yards Now Pompadour Prints, 6Jd; worth Bd. Just opened, choice patterns Good Bed Tick, lid; extra value at 7Jd 1500 yards Good Dress Materiala, to clear, dd per yt.rd. Half-price. Double Widths Scarlet and Green Furniture Repps, 3d; worth 6a 6d Double Width, nil Wool, Scarlet Domask, 2s lid. Half-price 200 Ladles' Laoe Capes and Fiohus, 2s 6d; usua price 5s to 7b 6d 5000 dozen New Buttons, 2d per doz,, in great variety. Great bargain Nice lot Ladles' Leather Bags, from 3s 9d | 100 Cocoa Mats, Is Bd, 2s 3d, 3s 6d. 100 Door Blips, 2s id 300 pair Men's Coloured Mole Trousers, 7s, worth 8s 6d Men's Tweed Trousers, 7s 6d, 8s 6d, 10. 6d, 12s -i. Splendid value Men's Tweed Trousers and Veßts, 13s 9d, 16a 6d 21s Men's Tweed Suite. 22s Bd, 32s 6d, 37s 6d. Colonial do., 52s 6d Boys' Suits, 9a 6d, 10s 6d, 12s 6d. Galatea do., 3s 9d All Goods Marked In Plain Figures (nett) for Cash. Civility, Attention, Very Reasonable Prices, and a Doslre to Please Customers, will be the Leading Features of the JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE. WILLIAM R. BRLDGMAN, I. Up jer Queen-street.



Special Advertißementta j rpHE COLONIAL BANK OF NEW ZEALAND. j i TUESDAY, tho 27th Instant, Is appointed a Speoial Bank HoUday by this Bank, under tho " Banks and Bankers Act, 1880." GEO. COWIE. General Manager.



Wor___ Aromatic Sohi-dam Schnapps to Induce tho destruction and prevent tho im proper uso of their wrappors and labels, and thus furthor proteot the Publlo against fraud and deception, havo enclosed In tho wrappers, or under he label on tho^-art Bottles, since Ist Octobor, 1878, and contlriuo toenolose in -very DAY'B PAOKINQ T-ItOU-HO-T THB YEAR THREE „1 ORDERS, which are drawn upon the undorslgned, and whioh wIU bo oashed by them on presentation. To secure theso Gifts, the Publlo must be oarofu to ask for, and accept nothing but, tho Genuine Udolpho Wolfe h Schnapps, with our name upon the top label, M. Moss Se Co. Wynyard Lane, Svdnov



Latkst Novelty. — Iron Bedsteads wit_ Niokel-plated Mountings, much handaomerthan tbo brass, and free from the risk ot tarnishing. These superior-class Bedsteads were first shown in Australia at the Melbourne Exhibition, ana Messrs Garlick and Cranwell, who are always to the fore in obtaining the latest improvements et once sent for a supply, whioh havo arrived in the Hermione, and are now on view at tbe City HaU Arcade, both in Fronoh and Half-testers. They have also iust receivon a fresh shipment of White and Blaok -heepßkin Hearth Rugs and Mats. Stair Carpets, Tapeetry and BrusßeU- Carpotß, Folding Iron Chair Beds, various sizes cheap Iron Bedsteads, Fenders, &o. A frean lot ot Patent Spring Blind-rollers, new patterns in Linoleum, and some" second-quality Linoleum they can sell at came price as Oilcloth. AU kinds of Household Furniture, Bedding, Carpets, &c., kept in stock. Funiiah your house from tho City HaU Furnishing Arcade, Queen Btreet. Auckland.-Garliok and Cranwell Proprietors -AdvW