SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

• • _,„ „, .-mm IThto Bvenlng, IMB HIGH WATJttt ]-xo-morrow Morning, BONBKT.--TMB Kvenlng, fiM |-- BUNKiaB.-To-MorrowMornta«. 4.40 MOON'S ABIC-Flrat Quarter, 39th, 11,10 pjn. ARKIVALB. YKBTKKDAY. Byren, brig, Weber, from Newcastle ,'■ ■• Hawk, schooner, G rev, from a oruleo TO-DAY. Rlngaroonia, 8.5.. Ohatfleld, from tho South DBPARTURB& SATURDAY «VKNUTB» Christina, sobooner, Bvonson, for RussoU TO-DAY. Hero, 8.8., Hodee. for Sydney IMPORTS. Per Syren, from NewoastlD-235 tons 0001, 80 tons bonedust. tS&?SO Hmeste, and SB3 boxes tea. W oases andllO 1-boJwtobaooo, 18>„caaks rum. H casks, 18 kogs, and SO oases troaole. 140 ban rice, SO bandies and S3 bars Iron, 800 bags whMt 35 oaoluwes sundries, from Dnnodin roases wfflSsyf «Cliaokß ftour. 30 saoks rye grSsM JO saoks oatmeal,4o sacks branSs sackire** Vrom Lyttelton-a horses, Spaokasca. (Forßussell-JOsaoks grain.) From WellingWn-3 babes bops, 13 oases meats, 250 boxes candles. From Napier-3 packages. EXPORTS. Pet Hero, for Sydney: 60 osses and 60 qr.- «a£'Wi3sfo. SSB pieces timber, 68 bales tongas, SB bales flax, 38 oases batter, 100 boxes soap, and a quantity of sundry merchandise. lirwißDS Coabtwibs.—Dream, from Tatrna, with22,ooo faet Umber; Bessy, from Kennedy Bay. with 21300 feet timber; Perseverance, from Saadspit, with 300 bushels gravel; Ranga ttoa, from Barrier, with 50 tons firewood; Janet, (ram Whangarel Beads, with 800 bushels lime; South Carolina, from Barrier, with 48 tons wood. Outwards CoABrwlSB. Gem, for Ngu nguru: Bessy, tor Kennedy Bay; Perseverance, for Waiheke; Rangatira, for Omaha; South Carolina; for Barrier; Janet, for Whangarel. The brig Syren arrived from Kewoastio yes terday after a passage of 19 days, during which N.K. winds ana unsettled weather prevailed. The schooner Sovereign cleared at Lyttelton , for Naplor and Auckland on the list Inst. Bhe has the following cargo for this port :-460 bags flour, SO sacks floor, 100 sacks oats, and 12 cases bacon. The brlgantlne Rhoderlok Dim arrived at Melbourne from Kalpara on the Hth Inst. The schooners Caledonia land Walwera are announced to leave for Norfolk Island, the former on Tuesday, and the latter on Wednes day next. The topsail schooner Goldon Isle Is (or sale. The B.s. Hero loft for Sydney at 4.30 p.m. to-day. Passengers:—Mrs King and child, Mrs Ryan and fonr children, Mrs Faulkner and child. Mr and Mrs Rowan and three children. Misses Me Mamara, Ttornoy, Mourn. Messrs F. A. Torni val, E. Onlmann. W. Wear, Bilston, F. Moloney, B. Collier, O. Chalton, MoNiooi and Moliifiht. ARRIVAL OF TUK RING4ROOMA. The as. Rlngarooma arrived from Melbourne, via Southern porta at 9.45 n.m t»day. Along coast had variable winds and weather, and across the Bay had squally weather aeoom panled by thunder and lightning. Passengers: Mesdames Bagge and family, Drysdale and, child, Kirk, Tjrs, MoMurrioh, Ross and child, Misses Turner and Ingram, Messrs McOnrdy, Fraser, Severs, De Castro, Bagge, Bell, Japkson, Kxham, Wilson, Brown. KUls, Gllmour. Bhaw, May, McLean,, Hogg. Alexander, Nicholls, Margraves, Whitt, Carey, Buohanan, Sneddon, Bees, Milner, and 21 steerage. ~r . a PORTOFONEHUNGA, ARRIVALS. Bowena, BA, Saott, from Ragto Wanaka, s.sv, Anderson, from tho south Hannah Mcfeaa, s.s., Dale, from Kalpara DEPARTURE. Macgregor, b.s., Amodeo, for Waltara . ' The as. Macgrettor arrived to™ Waltar; at 3 o'olook on Batnrday morning, with 49 head of oatSeVlhorse, 4 tons sundries, and several pas sengers. She was-to return to the same port this afternoon at 3 o'olook. The B.S. Rowena arrived from Raglan at 9 O'clock vesterday morning with 13 bales flax. U Wksbaoon. 4 oases, 1 balo fungus,and 1 bale wool. She 11 announced to leave again at 3 p.m. to-morrow for Hoklanga, The s.B. Rowsna arrived from WangannHat 8.30 a.m. on Saturday, with 193 sheep, 2 packa ge* 6 tons floor, and the following passengers: -Messrs Tawse. Brtdger, and GHover. she left again two honrs later for Raglan, with about 3 tons sundries, and maybe expeoted to return Sitae* about noon to morrow. The as. Wanaka arrived at 11 B.m. yesterday from the South, with 41 packages butter.ll sacks floor, 29 packages sundries, and the fol lowing passengers:—Miss Robbie, Messrs Al oookTThorne, McQulnn, Moyes, Cosset, Grylla, Kneel. Atchison, and 3in the steerage. She is advertised to return South at 1 p.m. to-morrow. Latest train from Auckland, 13 noor.. The S.B. Maogregor left for Waltara at 3 p.m. on Saturday, with two passengers and about 10 tons sundries. She may be expected to arrive from thence some tune to-monow morning, and returns thither according to announcement at 1 o'clock to-morrow afternoon. Thes-s. Hannah Mokau arrived at an early hour this morning from Kalpara, With 26 bales wool, SO bides, and 15 bundles sheepskins. • TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING. " Port Chahsmbs, this day. Arrived: Danedln, Captain Whitsen, all well. BLurtf, this day. The Te Anna Is coming up the harbour, n

Mail Notice.

Mails will Closb ab Uwdbb.- Tais Day. For Russell, Kawakawa, Wangaroe, fctad Mongonul, per Olenelg, at 1 p.m. For Tauranßa, Ohinemsta, iind Opotiki, per Olenelg, at 1 pan. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 5 p.m. For Thame*, per Enterprise, at 6.30 p.m. Tuesday, 39th Instant. For Waltara, per Hannah Mokan, at 8 a,m. For Port Fitnroy, per Waterllly, at 8 a.rs. For Talrna, per uream, at 10 a.m. For Walwera, Kawan, Omaha, and Matakana, per Roee Casey, at 10 a.m. For Hoklanga. per Bowena, at 1 p.m. For Whitiaogi, par Lagoon, at 11 a.m. For Taranaki and Southern ports, per Wanaks, at 11 a»m. For Russell and Kawakawa, por Ringarooma, at 3 p.m For Norfolk Island, per Caledonia, at 3 p.m. For Talrna, per Mana, at 1 p.m. For Whangarei Heads, Walpn, Whangarei, and Mangapai. per Argyle, at I p.m. For.Thamee, tier Rotomahana, at 5.30 p.m. Wednesday, 30th instant. For Kapanga, per Cotemahdel; at 11.30 a,m. For Norfolk Island, per Walwera, at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Bth December. Per m. City of Sydney, as follows i For Sandwich Islands, United Btatee at America, Canada, Britten Colombia. Central and Booth America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. For money orders registered letters, and newspapers, at 11.30 a.m. Late letters bearing an extra fee of sixpence, In addition to the postage, will be reoetved by the Hail Agent on board the steamer np to the time of sailing. This mall will be duo in London on Tues day, January 17,1882. a B. RJHB. Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-offloe. Auckland. Meetings, Entertainments, Ete. NOVBMBKR 28, 188 L St Matthew's Bazaar and Fancy Fair "Betsyßaker* and Mrs Jurley's Waxworks. 8, till dose auction, 8 p.m. Mr William Laing and Klootora of Glty West, St James's Hall, 7.30 p.m. MrO. C MoGeo and electors of Manukau, Panmure Hall, 8 p.m. Mr R. Monk and the oloctora of Parnoll, Pamell Hall, 8 p.m. A.0.F.-Court Eureka, 7.30 p.m. Masonic Hotel—Lodge St. Andrew, 7,30 p.m.

Birth.

GORDON.-On November 25th, at at George's Bar Road, the wife of IX Gordon of a daughter. OWK NB.-A t the Whan, on the 36th instant, the wife of Pi J. Owens of a daughter; both doing well.

Marriage.

RIDUNG-O'CONNKLIi.-On November 33rd, 1881, at St. Patrick's Cathedral by the Rot. Vather Walter McDonald, Robert, eldest son of Robert Ridling, of Cox's Creek, to Tranoes, youiigeat daughter of John O'Connell. St. Marfsßoad.

Death.

JONES.—On the 27th November, 1881. Robert Arnold, second son of Mr. T. H. Jones, in his 16th year. The fnneral will leave his father's residence, Mount Eden Road, this (Monday) afternoon, at 4.30. Friends will please accept this intimation. ROBERTSON.—At the Provincial Hospital, Auckland, on the 87th November, William Robertson, aged 87 yean.

Notices to Correspondents.

Ou> SuBSOBiBtB.—(1) The mistake would not ' prevent the letter reaching Its destination. (3) The rent is, we understand, £ll a week. Mb Andrew Heavy.—There is nothing in the Corrupt Practices Prevention Act to prevent you from voting for as many electoral districts as yon have property in If you have duly registered. Nor will that Act prevent you from making a friendly bet as to the result of the several contests. But if yon are a member of any election committee, you mutt be very careful that yon tio not make payments for bets in suoh a way that they may be inter preted as bribes to electors, or you will get both yourself and the candidate for whom you are working into trouble.

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

For the cause that lacks assiilance, For the wrong that needs resistanc For the future in the distances And the good that we can do.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1881.

Parliamentary reform—that is, reform in Parliamentary procedure—is one of the ; most important subjects now being dis cussed by leading thinkers at home and in the colonies. It has been said by some speakers that our Parliamentary institu tions are on their trial, and by others, that they have completely broken down so far as regards their efficiency and adaptation to the requirements of the age. There is, however, an elasticity and self-regulating power in our free institutions which pre clude any danger of either of these results ; and it may be safely contended that a clear recognition of the faults in the existing system is the Bute preludo to their amend ment. In the colonies the diffioultie of legislation are increased by ex ceptional circumstances. These colonies are in a condition of transition, change, and development. Their legislation is in a great degree only tentative, and experimental. New circumstances constantly demand a new adaptation of legislative resources. In

Now Zealand we have also a difficulty of a special and peculiar character to contend with. A vast amount of legislative respon sibility was suddenly thrown upon our colonial Parliament by the abolition of the Provincial Councils. Parliament is burdened with an endless multiplicity of minor local questions and duties, which were formerly either dealt with by the Provincial Legisla tures, or prepared and moulded for the supervision of the House of Representatives. But in England and her Belt-governing colonies it is now generally recognised that our Parliamentary machinery is unfitted for its Work, that there is great waste of time and effort, and tbat tho amount of practical legislation is not fairly proportionate to the means. The energies of Ministers are taxed during the recoss in the preparation of numerous measures which have no chance of passing, because the time of Parliament is wasted in party struggles and debates on abstract; questions or mere obstructive tactics. Par hament is an enormous machine, which never puts forth all its pbwers. It is over-' loaded and clogged with vast piles of bills' and printed matter which it cannot digest. An English writer on Parliamentary reform BUnis up the position in the following words:—" The minutest details of admin istrative organisation, jumbled up in a seething moss with the essontial principles, lmvo all been flung on the table to be dealt with by an inorganic crowd of men whose course of procedure, rules, and general con* stitntion invite a maximum of delay, wasto of time, idle garrulity, and wanton obstruc tion ; a crowd of men, moreover, who are broken into cliques, factions, and parties, eagor to discredit,, embarrass, and sup plant each oihor, some of them openly I bout on reducing the Honse itself to, ini potenco and shamo, and many of them secretly nursing a spirit of intrigue, spiteful noss, and general mischief." We have had recent experience of tho condition of things thus described in the obstruction to the Representation Bill, Many members were merely influenced by local or personal considerations. Though prolonging the debate nod preventing tuo progress of business, they openly expressed their contempt for argument. Their minds Were made up, 'their voios pledged, and theif speeches wero either made to the gallery and their constituents with a view to fuxuro popularity in tho elections, or were undisguised attempts at factious ob struction. To these party struggles, waßte of time, and dissipation of mental effort on a few prominent questions of a party char actor, wo may attribute in a great degree tho fact that political education makes slow progross, and that no loader on either tide of tho House hta been able during the recess to lay down tho lines of a definite policy for tho future. Even the supremely im portant question of local government escapes the attention it deserves. EToryono admits that something is necessary, but none seems to have a olear or comprehen sive notion of what that something is. So long as the power of discussion and consideration 'of technical amendments in a fall House remain unlimited, and the exist ing forms afford facilities for factious ob struction, so long will it romain in tho power of any small party to make the pass ing of on important measure a mere ques tion of endurance. The cloture in some form is inevitable. Every assembly in Europe has somo mode of protecting itself against useless Waste of time, and of pit serving its prestige and the dignity of its proceedings. Some of the Continental forms are, howovor, repugnant to that liberty of free speech and absoluto right of criticism and control with which our popu lar Chambers have boon invested from time immemorial. Arbitrary restrictions of Parliamentary privileges are only proper in times of intense excitement and desperate straggles, but,to bo effectual, they should always bo at command. The chief objec tion to any curtailment of the indivi dual privileges of Parliament is that it tends to depreciate the value and accep tability ot measures by giving them an ap pearance of having been passed by arbitrary means.

The great defect in the " urgency " plan of the House of Commons is that it throws the main responsibility upon the Speaker, The same samo objection applies to the proposals which Mr Hall submitted last ses sion, Tho onus of" naming " a member for ofcstructlvoness was Cast upon the Speaker or Chairman of Commit toes, though the matter Was ultimately remitted to the House. Tho danger is in making the Speaker or Chairman ursurp the functions of arbitrary interrupters of Parliamentary Order, and bringing them into conflict with the House. The Speaker has hitherto been the representative of tho whole House, without distinction of party, eVer ready to smooth over, so far as lies in his power,- the little asperities from which Parliamentary life is never wholly exempt, raised far Above all suspicion of partiality, and never brought into collision with any soction or party. If the responsibility of invidious selection of fit persons for punishment or repression is thrown upon him, he will often be called upon to do hard, they may be considered harsb, and unpopular things, and if the attempt fail he will have to bear tho blame, and his influence and authority will be undermined. He might become a mere official on tho side of the dominant party, or the Ministry of the day, and be regarded as a partisan dictator. It would be equally dangerous to throw the res ponsibility ou the Ministry. The tempta tion would be irresistible to use tho power for the suppression of a troublesome minority in opposition; Tho safest place, however, appears to be to leave the ultimate decision with a majority of the House, which already practically rules in other matters. The rule that the majority shall decide is adopted, not because the majority is necessarily in the right, but bo cause we must decide somehow, and the question is not what is right in the abstract but whst at a given moment is the will of the Chamber. Under the existing system of checks and balances, and constitutional safeguards, and with a vigilant and critical press, it is not likely that the power of a majority can be seriously abused. The question to be considered is how the will of that majority shall be set in motion in tho cases referred to, and this subject, together with comments on the other reme dies that have been suggested for the defects in our Parliamentary system, must be deferred to another article.

An orchard owner at Mangapai has grafted no fewer than 6,000 apple trees this season. We ought soon to get agood supply ot fruit from the North.

" Steel Pen " sends us a long letter in reply to "Silver Pen's" strictures in the "Herald" on Mrs Fay's pretensions to mediumship and Mr Bishop's claims as an expoaer of the same. The substance of our correspondent's letter is that Mrs Fay's genuineness has been attested by Professor Crook in the "Quarterly Journal of Science," while Mr Bishop is making an uncommonly good thing for himself out of bogus exposes. The contractor for the Hamilton railway bridge, Mr Simms, has arrived, and has already commenced operations. The banks of the river are being cleared of scrub, and a monkey has been brought up for the purpose of driving the piles For the temporary wooden |bridge. Mr Walsh's contract for clearing; and levelling the station reserve and laying the permanent way to the river bank has been completed.

This morning a man named Standbury, master oi the cutter Cornlie, reported that between 6 p.m. on Saturday evening and 6 p.m. this morning, bin cabin had been entered and £3 worth of clothing stolcu therefrom. He locked the door and left the key with one of his men. He supposes that 'he sailor had occasion to go into the cabin, and had inadvertantly left the door open, A few hours later Sergeant Martin arrested a man on suspicion.

Professor Bickerton, public analyst, of Christoburch, has analysed twelve samples of tea from different dealers. All were genuine and unadulterated. To the Editor: Sir,—l utterly deny the statement made by Mr Sattley in this morning's " Herald," that I was repeatedly warned not to build the house, and that I deserved no consideration. This wonderful conversion of the neighbourhood is of very recent date—except from Mr Allen, whose opposition I looked upon in a general sense as opposed to the sale of spirits generally, and whose opinion I considered counter balanced by others of equal weight; and on discovering that the minister of the Church of England was exerting himself by the aid of other denominations, to form the above association, and from remarks he made not to build, I offered to hand the land, and material on the ground, over to him, on payment of my outlay, and gave nearly a month to consider over it. As no other site is so well adapted, and no response coming to my offer, I considered the opposition as very impotent, and proceeded to build. According to Mr Taylor's remarks he would not sell land for an hotel. What abont the Mount Albert Hall, to induce purchasers, &c, &c. t—l am, &&, S. Stephenson, Mount Albert, November 88th.

The evening religions*service at the Theatre last evening was fairly attended, considering tho stormy weather. Mr Geo. Hemus ana the Rev. Mr Spence and the Rev. Mr Slade (Raglan) delivered iostruc* tive addresses, The Helensville Timber Company invite tenders tof steam engine, boiler, and Other saw-mill machinery. Particulars will be found in oUr advertisement columns. A lunatic in Sydney, who had been con fined because of a mania for stabbing women, was liberated lately, and signal* isod his liberation by re verting to his old practicos, stabbing several young women in succession, without any provocation or warning Whatever. We are .requested to state that tne oaao in which aohn Daley is charged with steal ing cabbages from the garden of Ah Choag, a Chinaman, will be heard at the Police Court to-morrow (Tuesday) morning, and the witnesses arc desired to be in atten dance by 10.30 a.m. Wo regret to notioe the Unexpected death of Robert Junes, a youth of 16, who had been employed in tho Star office for several years, and who was remarkable for his steady, courteous, and unobtrusive habits. He felt unwell on Friday last, and was obliged to leave his work, and, as it proved, never to return. Ho ditto last evening at 7 o'olook, of brain fever. He was a youth of studious and religious habits, a constant reader at the Freo Library, and every sparo hour of his time was devoted to the acquisi tion of knowledge. Return of sick treated at the Provincial District Hospital for the wbek ending Baturday l November 28th, 188!. Remained last return, 107; admitted since, 10; dis charged, 11; diod, 5; remaining, 101 males, 84; females, 17, Arrangement of cases; Zymotic, 12; constitutional, 11; local, 48; developmental, 17; violent, 13. Fivo deaths occurred, vis.: E.D., aged 72 years, female, on. 21st. iust., of general dobility; A, 11., 60 years, male, 22nd, of cancer of stomach; WiC, 68 years, uuilo, 220 d, of arthritis; G-,H>, 60 years, male, 24tb, of pneUmonittj T.McM., 12 years, 24th, of sorofula. Thanks aro returned to Mrs Sutherland and Secretary of Auckland Club for illustrated papers, and to Mrs Si M Iran for I lowers-.

A very narrow Escape from what might have tioen a serious conflagration happened early, yesterday morning, Sliortltr botore 3 o'clock, Mr and Mrs Coughlau, who reside upon and tAke care of the Turkish Bath Company's premises in Upper Queen-street, were awakened by the smell of smoke. Mr Coughlan immediately jumped to the con clusion thai) something was the matter in tho furaucc-room, which is oh tho lower story. He found the woodwork in flames, and iinniedittely set about to ex. tinguish tho Eve with buckets of water, Mrs Coughlan had in the meantime rung a hand-bell at the door, and this brought Constable Ryan, Sergeant Clarke, and several other policemon on the scene. The Fire Brigade also arrived shortly after the alarm. With the assistance of the police officers the llimos were speedily ex. tinguished before any Serious damage had been done. It is sUpposod that the fire \tas caused by embers from tho fnrnacc. The third lecture of. Mrs Bernard Moore's second courso on " Homo Nursing " was given at th'o Yoiing Women's Institute on Saturday afternoon. Tho subjects treated of were : Observation of the sick, accidents, bandages of various kinds, on all of which valuable information was given. If these lectures continue to be given and are well attended, the sick Will reap the benefit in increased comfort, and tho medical men in the intelligent dud faith ful seconding of their labours, the want of which is often one of their greatest trials. Husbands should send ther wives, and parents their daughters, to learn the most necessary and valuable art of nursing the sick; Mrs Modre has a large class at Unehnnga, and another is boing formed there, for which Mr Stovenson is taking names. Mr Gardner, chemist, of Queen-street, will also receive names of those who wish to joiii another class in Auckland, after Christmas. The next lec ture will bo on Saturday next at 3 p.m.

The quarterly meeting of tho Sir Henry Havolock Lodge, No. 6,1.0. G.T., for the installation of officers, was held :a the lodge-room, on Tudsdsy, tbe Ist inat. Th« reports of the secretary and treasurer were of a very encouraging chiiracter, it being shown that over one hundred persons had joined the lodge during tho p»st six months, whilst the finances were stated to be in a very healthy condition, notwithstanding the largo amounts that had been spout in adding books to the already valuable library. It was agreed to hold a concert shortly in aid of the Hospital and Bofuge Fruit, Flowers, Harmonium, and Invalid Chair Fund. After the reports had been adopted the follow ing officers were installed for the current quarter by Bro. Lye, L.D., assisted hy Bros. Wilcox and Young:— Bro. Clifford, W.R.T.; Bro. Bees, W.V.T.; Bro. Ley land, W.S. ; Bro. Weir, W.A.S. j Bro. Gibson, W.F.S. ; Sis, Marston, W,T.; Bro. Wooden, W.C. { Bro. Anderson, W.M. { Sis. McManus, W.D.M. { Bro, Mo- Naughton, W.LG. ; Bro. Lymburne, W.0.G.; Sis. Lye, W.RH.S. 5 Sk Cameron, W.L.H.S, ; Bro. Flannery, P.W.C.T. Mr W. P. Featheratono, of Dovonport, writes, complaining that several inaccuracies occurred in our report of Noonan's ex ploit at his 1 residence early on Saturday morning. He says i "In the report it would appear that Moonan went direct from the ferry boat to my residence ; whereas his first appearance took place at a quarter to two in the morning, when he was detected in trying to raire the window sashes. He never was on tho verandah as you state, He was dragged into the house certainly, but never struck while there ; or afterwards, as you assert; he had received his injuries before wo saw him, viz., in the darkness outside, dor was the man care fully tied, but At perfect liberty in tho room. Instead of ill-using him, we bad his arm dressed and put in • sling, though if his arm was broken, as you state it was, we did not know it, but simply dressed it as for au ordinary bruise. I also asked one of the detectives, who concluded that his arm was not broken. And as for your reporter's advice, that ho hopes .the public (tor fear of the conse quences) will not be rash in treating sup posed burglars when they are trying to raino your window-sashos at 2 o'clock in tho morning, I imagine tho public will not be so chicken-hearted as to take such advice, otherwise our real burglars will probably be at large for tomo time yet to oome, I would wish Noonau to know that if he has suffered through his freak, he has only himself to blame; and that not only was he the cause of disturbing and frightening my family, but of several other families in the neighbourhood, and putting me to the expense of a medical man for my wife. With your permission, Mr Editor, I would kindly thank those neighboure and friends who volunteered their assistance on this occasion.—Yours, &c, W. P.Feathkk- STONE. •

Yesterday morning at an early hour, a young man of much promise named Win. Robertson, died in the Provincial Hospital of " Blight's disease." Since his arrival in Auckland about three years-ago, the de ceased has taken a lively interest in the temperance movement, having been for more than a year Secretary of the Victoria Lodge of 1.0. G.T., Newmarket, while he also acted as Secretary to the Band of Hope in connection with St, David's Presbyterian church, Symcnda-street. Daring the last sitting of the Grand Lodge of 1.0. G.T., Mr Bobortson was one of the officers chosen to furnish Press reports of the traua actions of the Orand Lodge, and gave every satisfaction. He was at the same time nominated for the post of Grand Worthy Secretary, but withdrew in favour of Mr Price, of Wellington. Tho deceased bad varied literary attainments, and contributed to the Auckland papers poetical effusions and letters on current social topics. He came from Airdtie, Scotland, in rather weak health,and arriving in Auckland by the ship James Wisbart, found his health for the first two years greatly improved by the change to this genial climate. Abont two months ago, however, he had a severe at tack of erysipelas, and though he recovered from that complaint, the weakness appeared to hare developed kidney disease of a dan gerous type. His brother, Mr Robertson of Kyber Pass bakery, had him removed to the Provincial Hospital, in order that he might receive the benefit of the most skilful and systematic treatment; but shortly after his admission to that institu tion his case was pronounced hopeless, and he gradually sank, bearing his sufferings cheerfully, until he passed away in Chris tian hope and resignation, at 5 a.m, on Sabbath. Deceased was a member of St. I David's Presbyterian Church, and his I funeral, which took place this afternoon, was attended by various of the church brethren", members of the Good Templar Order, and of tho Auckland Band of Hope Union, besides relatives and personal friends. In addition to his mental_ gifts, deceased had a singularly amiable disposi tion, and bis removal at the early age of 27 years is another instance of the inscrutable working of Providence in catting off useful lives, apparently in the very bud of their promise.

Borne Danes, felling bush near Stratford, Taranaki, disco yored the skeleton of a man, with the back of his akull appearing to have been broken in with sdme blunt instru ment;

At 8 o'clo6k this evening at St. Matthew's Bazaar, an auction sale will be held in the Drill-shed of the goodi remaining over, at Which the Whole Of the works of art which were not allowed ro be raffled will be dis posed of.

Mr McKay, of the Geological Depart ment, who was sent to report upon the Caswell Sound Marble Company's property, has sent in his report. It shows that the marble consists of three different varieties, one of which is of a .quality of good white statuary marble, and that there is every prospect that a marketable marble will be procured of a quality equal to samples shown,

A lad named John Thorpe, son of Mr Robert Thorpe, the well-known proprietor of the Harp of Erin Hotel, had his leg broken on Saturday morning by a kick from the stallion Preston. The boy. was engaged to ride Dewdrop at the Waikato races.

The dingV face between Masters Hewson and E. Bailey, which was to have taken place on Saturday afternoon, was postponed on account of the rough water. It will be rowed at 6 o'clock this evening*

MrE. Bartley has received the idllorfng list bf tenders for a residence at Lake T«ka puha:-J. May, £470; A. Wren, £499; Scott and Coombos, £646; F. Duder, £660; A. Koys, £689. The following tenders wero sent in to Mr E. Bartley, to-day, for the erection of a residence at Remnera (as advertised);—W. Edaerly, £610; H. Jones, -£572; J. E. Morris, £556; Smith and Woller, £546. . ' The following telegram was received by Mr F. A. White to-d»y from the Waite kauri Extended mine i -" Cut reef eastern sido about nino inches wide, showing a little gold-I believe payable. —H. BUTLKB." "Omega" Writes regretting that Sir George Grey did not discuss the education question in his lost speech at the Lome street Bail. Our correspondent than pro ceeds to advocate the return of only such representatives as Will support the Introduc tion of Bible-reading into the public schools. We have not space for the letter in the pre sent crowded state of our columns, Mr Harry Dunnett, who rode Comus in the Fakuranga Hunt Club Steeplechase on Saturday, was most Unfortunate, hav ing no tower than tbtee spills. Thd first two of these accidents did not result seri ously, the rider being in bis saddle a second or two after he left it. In the third, how • ever, Comus collided with one of the gate posts, and Mr Dunnet, betides getting severely bruised, had his lip split He was picked up by Mr A. Bennett, and sent at once to the Hospital Last evening the incumbent of SI; Matthew's delivered td ah attentive congre gation the first of a series of Advent lectures on "The Four Last Things"— "Death," "Judgment," "Hell," "Heaven." The delivery of such an address during such a terrific storm was very solemn, and when " The Litany of tHe Four Last Things " was sunir, whilst thechtirch was lit tip with the lurid glaro of the lightning, the intensely weird effect will not bo soon forgotten. Canterbury squatters are not the only people in tbe colony who know how to grid iron I A Beefton paper says that complaints are made that the Chinese who take up alluvial claims, so contrive to peg their ground as to leavo blocks between tbe claims. The spare ground thus locked in is of course useless to others, being pro tected to some extent by registered rights for tail-races. When the proper time comes shares in tbe claim are sold to other China men, and the sparo areund is barred from occupation pending tiio arrival ot Chinamen from Utago.

At tho meeting of the French Literary Society on Saturday evening Mr W. H. Dampier recited la translated'prose extract from tho English, entitled ''Tho Bvbful Man," Tfco translation was rather defective in consequence of idiomatical difficulties. Mr Dampier gained credit at any rate for his dolivery, which waa fair. On resuming his seat he waa warmly applauded, Mr J, 11. Seward (schoolmaster at Fanmure), followed with a highly interesting and very Well-written composition on Ducornet, the celebrated French painter, who, though deprived from birth of the Use of his arms, learned to paint with his foet, and succeeded in achieving fame in his profesiion. The lecture evinced on Mr Soward's part a keen appreciation of tho line arts, and showed that be la possessed of a largo fund of information on the French and Flemish schools of painting. The production waa highly praised by the members present, who Were of opinion that both in peintof delivery and literary style it would do credit to on educated French man, The lecturer was also complimented upon his devotion to the welfare of the Association, which prompted bim to come all the way from Fanmure in order to keep his engagement with the class. Mr Hay, of Duuedin, has printed an essay on " Some characteristics of Wordsworth's poetry and their lessons." The essay waa read by the author before the Utago Uni versity Debating Society in Jnly last, and published by special doiire. It is rare, indeed, that a discourse on the contem plative Wordsworth is read befere other than a cultivated society, but Mr Hay seems to have been favoured with an ap preciative audience in the city of the South. Tho essay is not without very considerable merit, and exhibits a genial appreciation of the excellencies ot the author of the "Excursion." Mr Hay has shewn in his essay that the poet of liydal Mount possessed in an eminent degree those powers which he rightly termed " the vision and the faculty divine," and that his fame, long unre cognised, grows brighter with the lapse of years. Wordsworth's exquisite simplicity and composure of style, his unison of thought with the quiet influences of Nature.have won for him a leading position in poetic literature.' He has bordered, so to speak, the lowliest paths of humanity with flowers of truth and Christian philosophy, refreshing to the lonely student of the beautiful, and proved, as Mr Hay has shewn, a delight and solace to no less a man than John Stuart Mill, in moments of sadness, Mauy of Words worth's lyrics, and especially bis sonnets, are noble, patriotic, and full of beauty, which the writer of the essay has illustrated by well-selected- extracts. A cluster of poems and sonnets, occupying half-a-dozen pages ofter the essay, will- be read with pleasure. The sonnets on Keats and Shakespero aro comparatively fault less.

The prospectns of Fisher and Com pany (Limited), has been published, and will be fonnd in our advertising columns this evening. This company proposes to purchase the business of Messrs Fisher and Co., of Auckland, and to carry on the wholesale and retail butchering, meat freezing, and meat preserving trade, together with fellmongery, tanning, and other branches of the business which may be found expedient, and it is confidently expected that with increased capital and improved appliances, the present profitable business son be very much further deve loped. The capital 1b £60,000 in £1 shares, and it is proposed to call up 5s on applica tion, 5s on allotment, and the balanco in colls of 5\ on three months' notice. The provisional directors are Messrs W. Aitken, Jas. Bailey, Joseph Banks, Thos. Ching, P. Comisky, D. B. Ctuickshank, John Fisher, Jas. Wallace, tnd David Nathan. Messrs Fisher.& Co, have ac cebted 25,000 paid-up shares in the com pany, in full payment for all the proper ties and stock-in-trade, and it is proposed that Mr Fisher should act as managing director of the meat-purveying department, and Mrßanks,the tannery and fellmongery, &e. All the properties to be taken over have been valued by competent authorities. Two months since orders were sent home for a Bell-Coleman freezing machine, capa ble of freezing 125 tons measurement, and manufacturing two tons of ice daily. With a properly fitted-up chilling chamber, there will be no necessity to feed a heavy stock of cattle, sheep, and poultry, as the supply can be regulated exactly by tbe require ments of the trade; the meat being only chilled, not frozen, will keep fully forty eight hours longer than meat killed under the most favourable conditions. It will also offer great facilities for storing butter, game, and other perishable goods; and en able the North ot New Zealand to compete successfully with any other part of the colonies in the manufacture of bacon, cur ing hams, and production of preserved meats. Mr Thomas Russell has sent out a complete plan and specification tor a model tannery and fellmongery, using tramways and every appliance of the most modern construction. Arrangements have been made with the Government to have a station on the site of the works, thus enabling the company to carry on a large shipping and carrying business, with every facility and despatch. It is also proposed to utilise all refuse in the manufacture of a superior mannre. Messrs Saunders and Alexander, who have been appointed brokers, have already re ceived a large number of applications for shares in the projected company.

We are requested to state that there will be no drill to-morrow evening, Major Derrom having kindly placed the shed, at tho disposal of the St. Matthew's Bazaar Committee;

A yoiitb, named Thomas Mani, had a narrow escape from drowning on Saturday last at the swimming baths,and would most likely havd been drowned, but for the timely help of a Mr Mills, who, seoing the lad's danger, rendered immediate help, and rescued him. The lad was found nearly unconscious, and was brought round by ruhbfng and the utual appliances. The man at the oaths seems to have been unaware of the circumstances at the time. The parents of tlio lad express their gratitude to Mr Mills.

Miss Rogers, lately arrived from England, opens In Ponsonbr, opposite All Saints' Churoh, as fashionable milliner. Her notloe appears in another column.

A grand entertainment will be given to morrow evening in the Theatre Royal, by the following ladles and gentlemen. Madame Mlna Mnrlelle,MUi Hykes,Mr Gordon Goooh, K.A.M., Mr WentWoDth, Mr Forth, Messrs Marshall, Carhpbell,at>Clair, Culllmore, Maoosbe,Frank lin, and others. The programme contains a Bumber of Bpeoialitles, new boors, and a variety of nniqua performances, brief, pleasant, and entertaining. A carefully arranged programme has been prepared for Mr Qradwell'sflrst concert to ba given In the Choral Hall on Thursday next. The instrumental part oonslsts of pianoforte eOlos by Miss Vlvers,Mlss R»eve,and Miss Law; violin sdlTby Miss Stevenson; and duetfor vio lin and piano by Mr Bealo and Miss Dickson. The vooalists Include Mrs Blspham, Mr Gordon Goooh (who will sing two favonrite seleoUons), Mr Forth, Mr Corbett. and Mr Gradwell. A speoial feature of the concert will bo the Shaksperian readings and recitations to be ren dered by anamber of Mr Gradwell'a pupils, who m»y be expeoted.to aodult themselves with great credit. A Bceno from "Maobeth" will be given in oharaoter, an attempt not often made by snch yonthfnl performers. It ought also to be mentioned that soma passages from Popes Homer's Ulad will bo rcolted, descriptive of the parting of Hector and Andromaone. From the above outline it will be seen that a very en joyable evening may be anticipated.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

(BY TKLEQEAPU—PRKS3 ASSOCIATION.)

HEW PLYMOUTH, this day. Yesterday morning a fatal accident occurred on the Waitara river, resulting in the death of Win, Ody and his wife. They, with their little child, about seven months Id, wore in a sailing boat on the river, the wife stoering, when the boat "jibed," and the mainsail knocked her overboard. Ody jumped into tho river after his wife, who clung to him, and, after a struggle, they were drowned. The man's body waa re covered three hours afterwards, but up to a late hour last night the woman's had not been. The child was in the boat, and was recovered alive. The body of Mrs Ody was picked up this morning on the Waitara river bank, a little below the old cattle wharf. An inquest will be held at one o'clock. Won Ody, who was drowned at Waitara yesterday, waa from Greymouth, and had for some time been trading to the West Coast from Lyttelton. The child has bcec adopted by a settler at Waitara.

ANTI-PUBLIC-HOUSE MEET ING AT MOUNT ALBERT.

A public meeting was held at the Mount Albert public ball on Saturday evening last, lor tho purpojo ot opposing the application made by Mr Samuel Stephenson to the Onehunga Uoensiog Benob.tor a license tor a publlo-hoase in tho Mount Albert district. Mr V. Battler occupied the chair, and in his oponlng remarks drew acontraat between the districts of Wairoa and Port Albert The river navigation in both districts was equally dan gerous, yet in tho Wairoa, where the publio houses were established, tho dreadful loss of life through, boat accidents occasioned directly or Indirectly by drink was a public scandal, while In Fort Albert dHtrlet, whore licenses were not granted, a fatal accident by boating was of very rare occurrence. All that they asked was. that Mr atophenson's applica tion be postponed until they had time to take steps under the new Act—the present application having been made under the old Incensing Ordinance. He had nothing to say against the applicant, but a great deal against his trade, and he believed be expressed the sentiments of tho great balk of the resident* when he said that, in that quiet, beautiful, and thriving district, they were wholly averse to the Introduction of a public-house, with its at tendant dlserder and demoralisation. Mr A. K. Taylor, after a few remarks endors ing the Chairman's sbeeoh, proposed: "That it is undesirable that a license should be granted tor the sale ot alcoholic and iptrituous liquors, within the Mount Albert diitriot." Tho resolution being seconded by Mr Fry was carried unanimously. Mr Monte then moved, " That an application having been made for the proposed Monnt Albert Hotel, this meeting pledges Itself to use ail legitimate means to oppose the granting of said license." Ho gave his own experiences as a mill manager at Talma as an insumca of what they might expeot it a hotel waa established at Mount Albert.-Mr J. MoKlwan, J.P., secon ded. This resolution was also adopted without opposition. On tho motion ot Mr Randerson the following gentlemen were appointed a committee to carry out the wish of the meeting and collect tne necessary funds:— Messrs A. K. Taylor, A. Waterhouse, R. Beck. 0. B. Stone, F. Battley, John Fhllipps, Thomas Allen. J. T. Garlic*, and the mover. The customary compliment to the chairman terminated the proceedings.

POLICE COURT.-Tuesday.

(Before J. K. Maodonald, Ksq.. 8.M.) Assault and Damagk. John Beaton, - a powerful man, was oharged with being drank and disorderly yesterday in Albort-street; alio with damaging Constable Colus's trousers, valae 16s, and with striking the said oomtabie and knocking him down. —Mr Partly stated the ease. The prisoner was wildly under the Inflaenoa of drink. The assault was committed at 2.30 pm. -Prisoner, whose face was much battered, pleaded guilty.-Fine d £l. damage 15s, and costs,' or seven days In Mount Kdea. Allbqid Pebjcry.—William Ferres Patter son was called to answer to a charge of having committed wilful and corrupt perjury at the Police Court, on the 18th Inßtant, but was not present. -Mr Lalshley appeared in defence, and Mr Hudson WUliamton for the prosecution.— Defendant put in an appearance at 10.15; Mr Williamson then asked a few mantes' grace in favour of the prosecutor, John Joseph O'Uono van, who oould not be found, and who it was fearod had not returned from the country.-Mr l.ainhley asked for an adjournment until two o'clock, but Bit Worship oould not consent to the proposition. Prosecutor oame Into Court at 11 a.m.. and proceeded to (rive evi dence.—John Joseph O'Donovan was sworn. and deposed that he was a com mission agent, knew the accused; met him first in June in ' a boarding house: prosecutor was then in the employ of Ingram and Co Patterson was in the house of W. Rattray and Co. at the time; he salrt he left that occupation in September.— Defendant called upon prosecutor on tho 2nd Ootober (Sunday), and made overtures ot part nership, saying ho had no money. He entered into the plan, and an office was taken. They were to sell from samples for merchants and local manufacturers. He (O'Donovan > was to get orders. A partnership was mutually agreed upon, but no dead was drawn up. They com menced business as " W. F. Patterson & uo." on the 10th Octobor. On October 27 art advertise montto that effect was published in the K vwhng Stab. Witness drew out the advertisement, and Mr Patterson took it to the office ot the fcT ar. It was arranged that Patterson was to do the indoor work, and he (O'Donovari) the outdoor work, getting ordora and delivering the goods. Their offloe was "Coohrane's Buildings, irort etreet; terms cash." He received payment for the firm; he handed " monies received " to Mr Patterson, less certain expenses.—His Worship said the Court had now a right understanding as to the partnership, and the elatlve positions of the partners. The case turned upon the evidence ot Mr Brookfleld. Patterson stated that O'Donovan was not a partner, and O'Donovan stated that he was.— Prosecutor then enumerated tho goods ho took out, and the various sums he paid in. Prosecu tor went on to state that on Sunday, the 11th November, Patterson called upon him| (prosecu tor), at Watson's boarding-house.and begged for a drop of whiskey, whioh ho prooured lor him; he then wanted ss, wbioh witness refused as Patterson was not In a fit state to be entrusted with money. Saw him in the evening, and told him he should try and get some orders on Mon day, andwonldnot be at tho offloe until tour o'clock. While on his way along Chapel-street, at half past tbroe, he was arrested on a charge of ombezzlement. He was prepared to shew by a number of witnesses that he was a partner, and not simply an employee. Left sitting.)

AUCKLAND SHAREMARKET.

November 28. Sank of N.Z.-Sellors, £2217s 6d N.Z. Insurance—Sellers, 82561 Anokland Gas-Buyers, £10; sellers, £lolosl Union Sash and Door—Sellers. £7los N.Z. Loan and Mercantile—Sellers, £6 5s Bay of Islands Coal Co—Sellers, £BIOB Tauplrl Coal—Buyers, 10s 64 Biaofcmore's—Sellers, 12s 61 Caledonian—2os, 20s 6d Kuranui Bill—Sellers, 5s 'lokatea—Buyers, Us Waltekaurl (extended)-£lO to £lOlO Sons of Fortune—lis; Buyers, lis JO3KPH NKWMAN. Chairman.

INTERCOLONIAL WEATHER EX CHANGE.

SYDNEY, Saturday. Depression passed eastward from Australia. Moderate S.S. winds with overcast sky on S. coast of Tasmania. High sea and strong south) drly squalls on B.K. coast of N. 3. Wales. Bar ometer (25 in), 297; Portland, 30'1; Hobart, 30; Sydney, 29'8.

PAKURANGA HUNT CLUB RACES.

Btbwabds! Messrs W. MoLaughlan. Robert Molean. A. K. WHitaker, X M. Clark, U. Tonks, Bailer, A. Baokland, Aiijersteln, G.DUnnett. Judge : Mr Thomas Morrin. BTABT3B: Mr 8. Morrin. . ~ Clerk of the soalkb : Mr W. F. Bnoklana. Clerk of the Coubsb ! Mr T.A. Brown.i How. Skobetart : W. PeroiraU

It seemed very probable on Saturday mom-1 ing that for once the Hunt Club would be I deprived of the glorious weather which hitherto has been so conspicuous a feature of attraction in connection with their race meetings, but all gloomy forebodings on this head were dispelled at noon by the rapid dispersion of the threatening canopy of cloud and the appearance of the gun in its full effulgence of light. The change had an immediate and noticeable effect upon the holiday ■ loving public. Those who had resigned themselves to the seeming certainty of a wet afternoon and had discarded from their minds all schemes of pleasure, instantly made arrangements to profit by the altered condition of things. Umbrellas and ereat coats were thrown aside, summer habiliments vtere donned, and ere the lapse of half-an-hour from noon, vehicles, both covered and open, crowded with passengers, were leaving the various livery stables and 'bus rtands for EUerslie,; while a continuous stream of pedestrians set in, in the direction of the railway station. Out at Ellerslie all was pleasant, r bright, and cheerful in the sparkling sun shine. The rain had served to render the turf light and springy, while the beautiful verdure of the country, the singing of birds, and the ,gala appearance of the course and its approaches heightened the general effect to an exquisite degree. Tho grand stand was well patronised by the fair sex, and the toilettes to be seen there were both striking and handsome. It was- also evi dent from the number of family equipages on the ground, and from the frequent arrival of smart cavalcades by the vari ous lines of road, that the whole country side was represented, while the city contributed its fair quota of people. A totalisator upon the ground was well patronised, and betting and sweepstakes engrossed general attention. Mr Mao donald (Bailway Manager) super vised the railway arrangements, and attended to the public convenience, It would bo advisable on future race skys j to have at least one train running into Auckland at some time between 1 o'clock and 5 o'clock. Once out at the course on Saturday, there was no opportunity of getting back to town by rail before the latter hour, except by catching the Wai kato train at Green Lane at 4.25. Otherwise the railway arrangements gave satisfaction. The races were associated with several acci dents to jockeys, the most seriouily injured being Mr H. Dunnett, who had his upper lip laid open as far as the nasal cartilages. Mr Harford fell with Viceroy in the same race (Hunt Club Steeplechase) and also fell with the same horse in tho Maiden Steeple chase while jumping the last hurdle, and when leading the race. The gentleman escaped unhurt on both occasions. A protest was entered against Greyhound (the winner of the Maiden Hurdle Race) on the ground that he had previously won a hurdle race at Wanganui, and therefore was not a maiden. The stewards, after takine some evidence, deferred their decision Until they have communicated with the racing authorities at Wanganui. The results of the Ist and 2nd races ap peared in our last impression, so that it Is unnecessary to repeat them. The other races eventuated as follows: Maiden Steeplechase, of 20 so vs., with a sweep of 1 sov. each. Distance, once round steeplechase course. Mr J. Smith's gr g Newmarket, alias The Ghost, 12st. lib. (Watson) ... 1 Mr J. Gillard's b g Harkaway, aged, 12at. lib. (Laxon) 2 Mr T. Stephen's ch g Viceroy, 6 years, 12st. lib. (Harford) 3 The betting was evea on tho field. Viceroy baulked at the first hurdle, Harkaway led across the water jump and up the hill, but baulked at the post and rail fence. Viceroy then took the lead, and was first over the fence, fol lowed by Greyhound. A capital race home ensued between the two horses, both hard whipped. Viceroy rose first to the last jump, but unfortunately fell, and New market won easily. There were 173 on the totalisator, of whom 63 were on the winner.

MEMBERS' Htjedle RACE, of 25 sovs., with a sweepstake of 1 aov. each. Bis stance, two miles, over eight flights of hurdlet. Same weights and conditions as Hunt Club Cup. Mr D. B. Tonka's gr g Greyhound, aged, (owner) .... 1 Mr E. Laxon's ch g Young Sledmerc 6yrs. (owner) 2 Mr J. Ellis's b g Whitefoot, aged (Good man), and Mr B. Dunnctt'sb g Comus, aged (Kelly), also ran. Betting: 3to 1 on Sledmere, any odds against the others. Whitefoot took the first position, and led over the first hurdles, round the course and past the stand. At the back of the coarse the horses closed in, but in the cutting Sledmere took the lead. A hot race fol lowed with Greyhound, which succeeded at last in winning by a neck. The totat on the totaliaator was 131, of which 23 were on the winner. Comus carried 61bs. overweight. Pony Hurdle Race, of lOsovs.; second pony to receive 3sovs. from tbe stakes. Entrance,' Ssovs. Once round, over four flights of hurdles. Ponies to be ridden and owned by sons of members, farmers, or others under 15 years who have at tended the meets regularly to the satis faction of the stewards. Mr R. McGee's ch m Nebula, syrs. ... 1 Mr W. McLanghlan's b g Mutton Chops, aged ... ..- 2 Mr H. Tonka's cr g Larry, aged 3 Mr C. Roberts's b gTarantara (aged) aid MrF. Somerfield's chg Charlie (5 years) also ratt. Nebula had the lead from start to finish. There were 94 on the totaliaator, of which 38 were on the winner. Consolation Hurdle Bace of lOsovs. Once round, over five flights of hurdles. Entrance, lsov. No weight under Hat. Awahou (Watson) ... ... 1 Butcher Boy (Goodman)... 2 Mignonette ..' . ... 3 Whitefoot was entered, but did not start. Awahou won by a nose. There were 93 on tbe totalisator, of whom 29 were on the winner.- This concluded the races, and the assem blage rapidly dispersed.

ANNUAL GATHERING OF WESLEY AN SUNDAY SCHOOLS.

THE annual gathering of a'l the Wcßleyan schools in and around Aackland took place yesterday afternoon in the Pitt-strcct church, The show of children, teachers, and friends was grand. It has been usual to hold this gathering either in the Theatre or Choral Hall, but these not being central enough, the Committee chose Pitt-street church. The place was filled from end f to end, and the children's faces beamed forth their unmistakable pleasure, Several of the ministers of the District Meeting were present either in the pews or on the plat form. Close upon three o'clock the Kev. W. Morley led the way to the platform. He was accompanied by the Bevs. W. C. Oliver, H. K. Dewsbury, H. Bull, J' Dellow, and hj. Hudson. The meeting was opened by Bev. W. Morley, who called upon Rev. H. K. Dowsbnry to read a portion of Scripture, and the Bev. W. C. Oliver led in prayer. The addresses were given by the Kevf. J. Dellow and L. Hudson. The former chose for his theme " Wisdom," basing his address npon the text in the Proverbs, " Wisdom is the principal thing.'' The rev. gentleman referred iu a pleasant way to the early part of King Solomon's life, and in particular to that part where God spoke to him and asked him to make a re quest from the Most High. Solomon asked above all other things "A wise and under standing heart." Mr Dellow then showed what wisdom was, and applied the subject to the children in a loving way, which, no doubt, greatly impressed the hearers. The Bev. Mr Hudson's address was based upon "Babbits," and he aleo strove to get a text to suit him out of the proverbs, where it refers to the coneys, who make their nest iu the rocks. No doubt some of the chil dren, or others, had doubts about the coneys being rabbits. The rabbits burrow in soft hills, they thought, and are never found in holes in hard rocks, and, as a rule, holes are not to be found In rocks at ail. But the real address was bated npon little things, and from this, a most interesting address was spoken, which pleased the children greatly. Mr Hudson has a pleasant manner with him, but not so musical a voice, as Mr Dellow. The addresses were calculated to do much good. The teachers kept in order the children, who behaved excellently. The whole com pany was marshalled by Mr B. Arthur, superintendent; Mr G. Win9tone, infant school superintendent, and the rest of the

teachers. ' Tho ainpiog was really street. The pieces were chosen by Mr W. Bridson, tod,he led the whole service of song, with Mr Lambert it the organ; X hi! collection wad about £l2. This Has been pronb'onted as one of the best gatherings of the unite? Sohoole ever yet held.

ELECTION NOTES.

A MEETING of Sir George Grey's supporter, If takes place in the Albert Hall to-nieht at 7.30; * Mr W. L. Bees arrived from the South to-day, to contest City North. The ReV. D. Bruce announces himself i i candidate for Eden. Mr J. Gordon addresses the electors of Franklin North on .Tuesday; in the public: * hall, Howies ; oh Wednesday, at Mangers I on Friday, at Pakuranga; on Monday next'' at the Public-hall, Wairoa South j on Tuesday, at Hunua, and on Wednesday the 7th December, at Papakura. ' An address by Sir George Grey to the" electors of Hamiltonon Friday next is spoken «' Fair Play," Port Albert, writes statin* that there were only fifteen electors at Mr Seymour George's meeting 8 j; . . Wellsford, ' and that at Matakana Mr Shepherd received a hearty vote of thanki. ' Mr.B. Monk meets the Parnell eiectba to-night in the Parnell Hall, and Mr Lau% the City West electors in Si James's Ball; To-morrow night Mr Reader Wooded' dresses the Eden electors at.the CongreeS., > tional school-room, Edinburgh-street, and Mr Moss the Parnell electors at New market Ball. Mr Moss's supporteri are invited, to form a committee at tile close of the meeting. ~ ■ HAMILTON, this day. Mr F. A Whitaker addressed the electors' of Ngarnawahia on Saturday. Up.' I wards of one hundred were present Ha 'met with a good reception. At the conelu. sion of his speech a vote of thanks was pro* posed and carried unanimously. Mr : Edward Fitzpatrick then said that having heard all the candidates he thought the meeing should express a decided opinion,. With that view he moved as follows: - "Having heard the views of can||| didates, we are of opinion that, If considering the services rendered to the. i colony in general and this district in par/ ticular by Mr Whitaker, he continues to .possess the entire confidence of the electors >$ of Wai pa. For the motion : forty ; against, seven. Carried amidst loud applause. , WHANGABEI, this day. , At Whangarei Heads on Friday, Mr Alderton addressed a meeting of about 40 electors. Captain Macgregor in the chair.. I A vote of confidence was proposed by Chan. Robinson and seconded by John A, 1 McLeod and carried unanimously. A committee of leading settlers was appointed to promote Mr Alderton's return. At Parua Bay on Saturday, Mr Alderton; addressed a meeting of about 40 electors. Mr Lambert in the chair. A vote of confi dence was carried on the motion of Mr Lewis Lee, seconded by MrMallabond, A committee was also appointed..

KUMARA, this day. ... Mr. Edwin Blake ia a third candidate for Eumara Electoral District.

WESLEY AN DISTRICT MEETING.

MONDAY MORNING.

Present: The ministers of the district, and the following laymen •.—Messrs J. Edson, F. Prime, T. McMaster,T. Thome, V Pitt-street; F. G. Clavton. F. A/Whitey'V Grafton Road; J. Rolleston, C. Stone, Thames; J. Law, Upper Thames; J, Trouwson, Paparoa; H. Buddie, Waikato; T. Somerville, Tauranga; J. Usher, RusselL

After devotional exercises, the the Rev. W. Motley, heartily welcomed the' : ; laymen in the name of the ministers of the ■ district He said the laity knew veil that | the ministers had no desire to claim the I monopoly of church buaiueis, but hailed / gratefully the presence and important ' ' counsel of the laity. Hitherto the distance and difficulties attendant upon travelling had hindered full repreeeD tation.but with iu« creased facilities this difficulty was hem? rapidly removed, and he was glad to find I that there would be. more laymen | present at this than at any preceding Din- 1 trict Meeting. He would draw attention ■ to tbe fact that while their business was I cbiefly financial this was not merely a court I of registry. It wonld be their duty to 1 ascertain, if the rules had been kept ■: and to plan for the work of the future In response to the question " Do any cir- I cuita desire division 1° MrW. Thome pro- ■ posed, and Mr McMaster seconded, on behalf of the Pitt-street circuit, " That tbe 1 Conference be requested to divide the cir- . chit; .'That Devonport (North Shore), 1 and the places adjacent, shall be made a separate circuit, with a single minister; the I new circuit to •be known as Auckland (North Shore)." The population of the pro; 1 posed new circuit is about 2,000. There m are two churches, and the present adherents number nearly 300.—Carried,—It was re commended that the following divisions take place in the Waikato drc'aiijs^H 1, "That Cambridge, with Pukerimu and' Houtapu, be a separate circuit," to be called Cambridge circuit, ' 2. ','Tnat Hamilton, with Tuhikaramea, ;• Whatawhata, Ngarjrawahia, Karikiriroa, and Woodlands be a separate circuit, to bo called the Hamilton Circuit." 3. " That Te Awamutu,with Eihikihi, Pafarangi, and I a lexandria be a circuit, to be called tbe Te Awamutu."—Carried,—Mr Gittos moved, H " That the Maori work and English workH bo separated." This was the wish of the people, and as this must be done sooner or later he was oi the opinion that such a division of the work was desirable. Toil: j was seconded by the circuit steward. Mr I Trownson, though in doing so, the Euro peans were very reluctant to lose the services of Mr Gittos. The new circuit to be called the Paparoa Circuit.—Carried. —The Rev. W. L. Salter proposed and Mr Usher seconded, "That the name of the " ■ Kawa* Kawa circuit be changed to Bay of Islands,"—After some conversation on the matter- this motion was carried on the ; understanding that'the minister reside at Kawa Kawa.— It was resolved that in ac- I cordance with rule the Waiuku. and Pukekohe. circuit take a married man at , the ensuing Conference, one year's grace having been already granted.—On the motion of the Rev. L Dellow, seconded by Kev. H. Bail, it was resolved ; ."That the Gisborne circuit be allowed | a single man ■ for another year. Single ministers were recommended to be appointed to the following new statioes:— Mount Albert (Pitt-street circuit), North Shore, Te Awamutu (Waikato), and-a , native minister in the Raglan district,—On ' , the motion of the. Eev. T. G. Hammond, an additional native minister was granted to the Hokianga circuit or the district with the understanding that no grant be ever applied IJ for from the Home Mission Fund.—lt was resolved that probationers be stationed at M Mahurangi and Coromandal. AUOKLAHD.

The return for the district for the yeat shewed churches 45, as against 40 last year; I ministers and probationers, 26, an increase I of 6; Sunday-school teachers, 414, an in' I crease of 43; local preachers, 69, an increase of 6; class leaders, 55, a decrease I of 2; members, 1,051, an increase of 171; I members on trial, 61; communicants, 242,' an increase of 98. Sunday-schools, 45. , Scholars, 3,536, an increase of 399; ad herents, 10,155, an increa-e of 1,384. la the Maori department the following were the returns :—Churches, 11, increase - 2; other preaching places, 34, increase 2; ministers and probationers, 7, increase 1; catechists, 2; day-school teachers, 4; Sun day-school teachers, 30, an increase of 1; local preachers, 25, a decrease of 2; class I leaders, 31; members, 366, decrease of 3; I on trial, 30, increase of 7; communicants, 43, decrease 51; deaths, 3; Sunday-school*, 16, increase 1; Sunday scholars, 723, MM crease 104; attendance at public worships 2,214, decreate 2,267. Under the consideration of the state of our connexional properties in the district, it was reported, in the Pitt-stteet Circuit, that the Pitt-street church-debt has been re- I duced by £725. Purchase of allotment ad- I joining Ponsonhy Church at a cost of £909 5 deb' reduced on North Shore Church by ' £150; church erected at MOrthcote cost £lll, no debt; purchase of church site at Mount Edeo, £2OO, debt £l6O. Grafton Road circuit: Newmarket church cost £612, debt £4OO ; Pakuranga chnrch (enlarged), £3O; Upper Thames chnrch (erected) cost £BO, debt £10; gift of oee acre of land at Te Aroha, also section of land atPaeroa. Manukau circuit: uhurch ' erected at Otahuhu cost £625, debt £25(1 Hokianga circuit: Church erected at Waima cost £l5O, no debt, Wangerei circuit :J Church erected at Kamo costi £4OO, debt £l5O. Gisborne church (enlarged), £IBO, debt £4O. Waiuku and Pukekoke circuit: Church erected at Bombay cost £400; debt £lso} Mauku church (enlarged), cost £93, debt, £55; also. & acre of land acquired next I Bombay by gift of Mr Lindsay. Kawa kawa: One acre of land acquired by gift! °' Mr Dickson,

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR MONDAY, NOVEMBER $



Special Advertisements. INABDRY & DAMAGED; WE MUST CLEAR OUT THE ENTIRE STOCK ANY PRICE, to makoroom tor extensive repairs toßnfldioga SHOP EARLY TO AVOID THE OEUBH. A K J 8. The Moot magnificent CketonnbS EVIK BBOWH IN AUOKLJIIND, Ex Orient Steamer' Garonne.' „ JUSTOrKHKD, . And on Bale lay GARUCK ft cranwell Nickel Plated french and hal? testes Ibon Bedsteads. VERY HANDSOME, AND A NOVELTY. JtJST LAMDKD, EX HEBMIOME. largest stock of bedsteads in auckland AT THE iia ..... fUTX TTAlfc AROADB. pARLICK & £JRANWELL, m HOUSE FUBNIBHKRS FANCY GARDEN TABLES. Cane lounges for verandahs. BLACK AND WHITR WOOL HEAHTII HUGS. TAVEBTHY, BBUBSKL, ft STAIR CARPET. § OTJBCa FEW BEATING, VBBT NIUH, MD PHKHUUBMI TO CUSHION!. GARUCK & CRANWELL,



Spaoial Aaverrmeraentß. 178^180,^182, QUEBN-STREET. CENTRAL DKAPEKY WAREHOUSE, TBBBE BOOBS BELOW THE AUCKLAND «AVfeiGS BANfc w. ratTrAy j to no w holding Ms * - •"* MAGNIFICENT SHOW OF NOVEL TIBS FOB THE SUMMER SEASON. His NEW WAREHOUSE has been fitted np so bb to eosnre the greatest convenience to - ■»■'"■" ■• SPACIOUS SHOW ROOMS, with every modern W. RATTRAY'S New, Summer Costumes Are both Faabionable and Stylish. LADIES' COSTUMES In very rich Cashmere, trimmed with Broobo Satin. Ombre Batihs and satin Cords In the Newest and Most Tasteful Styles. THE MOTHKR HUBBARD COSTUME, for Walking ud Morning Wear. Mantlks! Mantles' Mastlks A splendid assortment of Satin Mantles. Cashmere, Silk, Lase, and Fancy mantles, in qbeat variety. MILLINERY! HATS MIIiUNERT I MILLINERYI AND MnjLINBRY I MILLINERY I BONNETS. MILLINERY 1 LADIES' FASHIONABLE CAI'S. UNDKRHNKN DEPARTMENT. (This Stock has been largely Increased, and W. R. is pre pared to execute Wedding and Latette Orders upon the shortest notice. DRESS DEPARTMENT. A Complete and Entirely New Stock In Ligh and Dark Shades ol summkk Materials WASHING FABRICS In Great Variety Some Very Choice Patterns ot PLAIN end FANCY GINGHAMS FANCY RIBBONS AND TIE 3 L4.CES In New EhuJcs, Chenille Nets, Slo. India Muslin and India Hand-sewn Embroidebt THE SCHOOL GIRLS' UMBRELLA Ladies" Sunshades, Satin and Fanoy. MORLKY-S HOtIBRY IN THE BEST MAKES. Ladies' Spun Silk Hose, new Bhades Ladles' white and Unbleached Cotton Hose. from 6d per pair . - ••• ■! Navy, and Black Children's Coloured Hose, from Is per pair W. RATTRAY S enormous sale of Gloves enables him to buy with great advantages to his Customers, and he has an Immense variety to choose from. JUST OPENED, the New Undressed KID GLOVES, In black and dark colours. MANCHESTER"* All W. Rattray's GOODS. Goods are now marked Family and House- lnplalnfigures. - hold linens, Tabi- W, Rattray will sell lngs, Towelings, very cheap. The Cash Sheetings, and Buyer will find it to his Calicoes. advantage to inspect American Twill and>-W. R-'a Btook, and Cambrlo Calicoes, reoeive good value for splendid make and his mosey. • , finish. All W. R.'s Regular Window Nettings Customers will receive and Curtains. the benefit ot Low- Splendid Cretonnes, priced Goods. &c, too. J CLOTHING AND GENTLEMEN'S OUTFITTING. 300 Geelong Tweed TROUSERS and VESTS, 31s The Kalapoi. Tweed Suits, made up specially #,m Dnirn and VnntVia intft annAvlnx Boys', Youths', and Men's £ Oenta' China silk. Merino, and Felt Helmets, (to m Gents' Fashionable Tweed .SUITS; low S rice 60a len's Sydney Tweed COATS, IBs Sd WILLIAM "|> ATTBAY, GENERAL DRAPER AND CLOTHIER, 178, ISO. and 182. Queen-street. OSITIVE XiIACTI



GENUINE SALE PAPERY, Clothing, amounting to £lO 000, At (Jost Price and Under, F* J» SoMERFIELD, 132, QUKEN-STREKT, BofW to annoonco to toe Public ol Attoklaud ana Burronndlngdistriotathatholiaajaßt reoeived a LARGE SHIPMENT ot DRAPERY, CLOTHING, MANCHK3TER GOODS, So,, Sea., Sc, Specially Selected by an Expkeibnchd Buykk in THE Best Home Markets, and beino advised of fukthee Shipments to Follow, has ~., DETEBMINBD ON PLAONO BEFORE THE PUBLIC A REALLY NEW ANDTVELIr ASSORTED STOCK IN EVERY DEPARTMENT, ~. ', AT COST PRICE AND UNDER i In order to make room for further Shipments to Arrive. ONE VISIT WILIi PROVE THAT THIS, BALE IS, AS REPRESENTED, GENUINE! THE GOODS ARE ALL NEW AND SEASONABLE, FOR FOUR WEEKS ONLY I Will be Closed on THURSDAY, 31th Instant, In order to Mark Down the Stock, RK-OFKN FRIDAY, 35TH INST,



No Puroha sea Rooked at Sale Prioe. LAWN TENNIS I LAWN TENNIS! The undersigned have just received from England, per a.s. Rotomahana, Ckickkt bats, Balls, Stumps, Leo Guards, Gauntlets, nets, Cricket Rulbs, Cricketers' Guides, Scoring Boohb, Tennis Nets, poles, rackets, balls, tennis rulbs, E. PORTER & CO., ~.' j UUKBN AND HIGH-STRBETS, AUCKLAND.



Bpecial Advertisements. PKC I A u ST-CLASB OUMMEB riOODS. HO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN. tar A GREAT SALS "El OF DRAPERY AND CLOTHING Will be hold on the promises of J. COSGRAVE & CO., QUEEN-STREET. AUCKLAND. It will be perhaps surprising to many that we adopt the present oourae at this (reason of the year, but wo do it on principle alone. First: To counteract the Influence brought to bear on the pnblio in these extraordinary times, fcooond: To give the inhabitants tho benefit of some very extensive Shipments, as well as large purchases j made at auction. And third: To let the peoplej ot Auckland soe where they can get the best value for their money. The Duty on all Manchester Goods being re duced by 16} por cent, and being large purchasers' lately, this reduction will be a great boon to 1 Housekeepers and the publlo in general. No Goods Will be Entered during tho Bale. OASH MUST BE PAID FOR ALL PUR CHASES. T QUEKN-STREBT, AUCKLAND. r hj x uPEN IS D. EX ' ZBALANDIA ' AND LOCH CRKK. (JaRPKTS. MAGNIFICENT PATTERNB Made especially for THE MELBOURNE EXHIBITION. NEWPATTBRNS LINOLEUM New Shipment IRON VENETIAN BLINDS, Thk Bund or the Period. These Blinds will not warp, and do not require repainting; they are the only perteet Blinds made. NEW PATTERNS DRAWING-ROOM SUITES. INSPECTION INVITED, INKS AND JJALL, Wholesale and Retail cabinetmakers and upholsterers, and carpet warehousemen, shobtland'stbxet. "NSURANCE COMPANIES ASSO. CIATION. WEDNESDAY, SOth instant, being St. Andrew's Day, tho Insurance Companies OfSoes will be CLOSED. HENRY WOBBP,



The "Northern Advocate" (Mr Alder ton's paper) says that gentleman is con fident of being retnmed for Marsden by a majority of 200. His opponent, Mr Mitchel« son, thinks otherwise,