SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

limn w.rnrnlThls KvoninK, 025 Hian WATKK} To-morrow Morning, 0.52 ! UNBKT.—TnIa Kvonlng, 0.15 ' UNHISK.—To-Morrow Morning. 5.42 M"ON'S AGH.-Laat Quarter, 22nd, 7.9 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

LAST KVJNINO, Arßylo. s.b., Crawford, from Whangivol Urttllii, schooner, Bishop, from lUissoll

TO-DAY. Albion, s.s., Garrard, from South Arawsta, s.f>., Sinclair, from Sydney Rhoderick Dim, brigantino, Robinson, from Dunodin Kate MoQrcgor, schooner, Coocb, from llmarn

DEPARTURES.

LABTKVKNINO. Dunloo, barqco, Davics, for London

TODAY. A. C. Ho Freitas. barque Haeslop, for Lyttolton Thomas and henry, brig, Marts, for Kainara Flirt, brinastlno, Uorrougtg. for tfamoa

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

London-Loch Urr, loading _~.,. ,„ Tauranga-Ulonolg, Wednesday; Waitakl, Mon-

day Rusßoll—lona, Monday Sydnoy-Ardwata, Wednesday; City of I\ow York, March lt,(. , Melbourne, via South-Albion, 1 hursday Whaniwrol nud Kusseil-vViutaki, Wednesday Now Plymouth and donth—Wauaka, Unosday VVhangnroi—Argylo, Tuesdays and Fridays Waitakl, Krlday Friondly Islands-Myrtle Islands- Coronet Samoa, Flirt . LyMelton, A. C. do Freitan Tiu'.aru—Margaret Oalbrnith

IMPORTS.

Per Kato McGregor, from Timaru :-Soo baRS oats and wheat. Per Arawftta from Sydnoy-1,210 mats and 117 gunnies sugar, 332 b ixra and 360 linlf-cheats tea, 10 hhda and 5 qr.-wks rum, 10 qrycasks vinegar, 12 casks, 150 boxes tin plates, 331 bags bark? 10 slabs marble, 75 cases syrup 47 bugs hams and b»con. 41 packages rope, 100 sacks fbu>- 799 felloes, 100 bags ricn, 31 cases fruit, 104 packsigea Chinoao goods, 6 boxo*. lb packages, 20 bales, 5 bags, 1 cask, 7 chest-, SO cases sun dries. Per Albion, from Melbourne 52 caso3 gonova, 159 half-oheJts, 12 chests and ISG boxes tea, 3 cases tobacco, 10 sacks and 210 bags rico, 12 auartor casks and CO cases wino, 53 cases brandy, 50 cases whiskey, 100 packages sugar, 10 casea sago, 10 bags poppor, 5 cases tapioca, 12 bales, 3 psckagos marble, 8 drums, 29 sundry nnokages. From l'unodio-22 sacks oatmea', and 1U sundry packagoß. From Lyttolton-1 orate, 25 esses cheese, 2 boxes, 50 cases, i bales, 19 casks eood. From Wellington—lo bara stool, ■10 kegs, o crates, 3 tranks, U casos and pack ages From Napier -2 cask-, beef. From QU borne-G empties, IS drums dip, 12 basts seed 23 hidea. From Tauranga-1 parcel. *rora Blull -15 packages.

EXPORTS.

Per Dunloe, for I ondon—2ls tons manganese, 9 casos sewiDg machines, 44 pieces sawn timber, 2-27 tons copra, 74 bales, 4 baga, 1 pace cotton, / i sacks ootton-seed, 82 casks tallow, 318 boles 1 bag ■woo) 2G93 cases Rum, 4 cases curios, i coses furniture, 1 oases effects. 1 case pictures, 1 oase fancy goods. 1 box scientific apparatus. 2 sacks arrowroot, 40 kegs salt beef, 32 bags bonos, 19SJ loose horns, 5 bales h ather. Por Flirt for Samoa : 5 onses caret. 5 cases oysters, 50 bottled beor, 2 coses bottled fruits, 20 cases geneva, 6 boxes te». 100 casos salmon. 10 mats sugar, 15 baga rice, 23 packages tobacco, 18 cases brandy, I caso cigars, 7 cases cottons, 5 osses stone, 22 cases drapery, 4 bundles matting, 6 cases preserves, 1 box candles, 70 tins biscuits, 1 enso ditto. 1 tank, 1 keg wire nailc, 72 feet spouting, 3 packages hardware, 15 cases and 1 cask preserved meats, 11 ko«s salt ditto, 6 dozen whaling spades, 24 pair rowlocks, 42,001) feet timber. 5 bags salt, 12 sacks potatoes, J-ton onions, 5 boxes soap, 10 bags Hour, 1 caso copper nails. Inwards Coastwise— Janet, from Whan garei Heads, with 23 tons atone; Kangatira, from Barrier, witb 50 tons firewood ; Four Sis ters, fromPatuna, with 15,221 fiet sawn timber; Morning Li«ht, from Cabbago Bay. with 10 tons flrowooa; Adah, from Thames, with 23,0,0 feet kauri timber.

OUTWARDS Coastwise - Janet, for Whan caroi Heads; Itaogatira, for Omaha; Morning Light, for Cabbage Bay ; Mercury, for Tairua; Adah, for Thames.

The B.s Glene'g is expected to arrive about 11 o'clock to-night from Tauranga, hiving been detained several hours in an attempt to tow oil the Taupo.

The schconer Sovereign las entered out at the Customs for TrypheDa, and will sail en Wonnesday next.

Thes.p. Argjla which airi7ed from Whan gareilast eveningbroußht 121 sacks gum, 11 sacks fungus, 69 boxes fruit, 28 boring rods, 2 hides, 2 tons sundries, and the following passengers :- Miss and Mrs McKenzi?. Mi a Murray, Mrs Sinclair, Master, Serkes, and Messrs Stocer, Cox, SciiJion, Haywood. JlcDonaM, McKeczio, Underwoud, CapUin McDonald,and G steerage. She leaves for tho same ports thi* afternoon.

The barque Dnnloo sailed for London yester day afternoon, witn a ;largo and varied cargo, valued at £10,511,210.

The brigantlne Fl'rt Fails this cvenin? for Samoa with a large general t argo.

Tho doparture of the s.?. Albion has been postponed until Thursday mcrnin? a*- 10 o'cl'ick. Tho B.s. Albion arrived in harbour Bhortly boforo ten o'clock this forenoon. She left Melbourne at 2 30 p.m. on tho Bth inst., and arrived at the Bluff at. i p.m. on tho 13th, having experienced fine weather on the voyage acros'. Left Bluff at 5 p.m. on tho lltb, and arrived at Port Chalmers at 6 am. on tbo 15th, Loft for North at 1 p.m. on the lGth, reaching Lyttelton on tho 17tb, Wellington, 13th, Napior, 13th, Gis borne, 20th, and Tauranga at 9 p.m. on tho 21st. Experienced fine weather throughout the trip. Passengers :—(saloon)—3lisse3 Webster, and Hawkins, Mrs Welsh, Mr and Mrs Meinera hagon, family and nurpo, Messrs N'ewmar, Mosea. Beaver, Wnrnock, Whits, Palmer, Blackhßm. Sleitrht, Jarvis. Spofforth, Moulo, McDonnell, Murdoch, Boyle, Alexander, Groubo, Dunning, Carmalt, Crawford, McKay Goldsmith, Davy, Tobin (21, Kurchett, Thiel, Whittaker, Home, Reid, Maihias, Young, Currie, and Mr and Mrs Dean, and 15 in tho steerage.

ARRIVAL OF THE ARAWATA.

Thes.B. Arawata. Captain Sinclair, arrived from Sydney at 11.45 a.m. this morniDg. She left iuokland for Kussoll and Sydney on Bth lost, at 5 p.m., arriving at Ku-soll 9th, at 6 v.m. Left for Sydney at 5 p.m., and experienced thick weatner with strong northerly breeze, arriving at Sydney Uth at 230 a.m. Lett Syd&ey for Auckland on 17th at 2 p.m.. and experienced beautlf al fine weather, arriving as above. Pas sengers for Auckland:—Misses Maggie Knight, and Coakß, Mesdames Glbbin, child, and Bervant, Pollock, Morgan, Torey, Messrs Glbbin, Russell, Feld, Hurnoall, King, Rnsaey, Miles, Wright, Kemp, Keatley, Braithwslto, Oliver, Reid, Morgan, Gunning, Whiter. For Gisborne—Messrs Boarke, Smith, Rhodes, For Napier—Mesdaines Liddle, Close, Dinwiddie, Miss Hobbs, Messrs Closo. Dinwiddie. Thomas, Hamilton, Heillzar, For Wellington—Mesdames Fox, and White, Mosers Richardson, Taylor, Brown. For Lyttelton— Mrs Roberts. For Dunedin—Miss Burbury, Messrs Hills, -Anderson, Smith. For Bluff—Mrs Smith, Mr1 "candrell. We are Indebted to Mr John A. Laing, purser, for lato files, report, etc.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

DEPAHTURES. Wanaka, s.s., McGillivery, for the South

The b.s. Wanaka loft for south this afternoon With the following passengers:—Frater, Ford, Key S. Donßlas, Uoldwater. Mrs Lalng, Mrs WatsoD, Mrs Looky, Kentall, Taylor, Payne, Bloxorae, Wooley, Lumsden, Baslett, Fraser, Ke ler, Gill, Brownlow, Downey, Weir, Coopsr, Hay, MoLeod, and soven Thames representa tives of Naval Brigade.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Russell, this day. Sailed: Fairy, and Christina. Loaded: Golden Isle, Ruby, and Zillah. Arrivals: lona, also Speedwell from Norfolk Island. Tatjkanga, this day. Arrived : Waitaki, from Auckland, at 6.30 a.m. Sailed: Glenete, at 8 am. Rcsskll, this day. Arrived: lona, from Auckland, at 9 o.m, Napikk, yesterday. Arrived: Mercia, barque, from London, hav ing lost two men on the 29ih November during a heavy gale. She brings 1209 tons of cargo for Napier and 200 tons for Timaru. Wellington, yesterday. Arrived: Star of the South, from South. Sailed: Rotomahana, for Melbourne snd the South; Hawea, for Picton and Nelson; Wakatlpu, for tho South: Stella, for Southern lighthouse. Lytteltow, yesterday. Arrived: Saucy Lassi, from Wellington; Wave of Life, from Kaikourn. Sailed: Grafton, for Wellington; Oreti, for Timaru. Port Chalmers, yesterday. Arrived; Rosser, barque, from New Yoik, Sailed: Pengu n, 8.8., for Nor:hern ports.

Mail notice.

Mails will Ci.osk as Under.— This Day. For Whangarol lloads, Walpu, Whangarol, and Mangapal. por Ario'lo, ul 1 p.m. For Thamo% por Kotomahana, sit 5.30 p.m. WKDNKBDAY, 23rd instant. For Wangaroa, per Atalanta, at 9rt.ni. For Tryphcna, por Sovereign o£ tho Soas, at For Coromandol, por Coromandol, at 11.30 a.m. For ■\Vhimniirol Heada, Whangarei. llussoll, • and Kawakawa, par Waitakl, at 1 p.m. For HubsoU, Kawakawa, and Australian Colonies, por Arawata, at 5 p.m. For Whliiangi, Tairua, Tauranßa, and Opotlkl, por Glonolg, at 1 p.m. Thursday, 21th Instant. For Olßborno, Napior, Southorn ports, and Australian Colonios, por Albion, at 3 a.m. Tuesday. Ist March. Por H.s. City of Now York, aa follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United States of America, Canada, Hritish Columbia, Contra! and South America, and Hrlttoh and Forolgn West Indlos, at a p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Kuropo, at 5 p.m. For mor.oy ordors, registered lottors, and nowapapers, at 1 p.m. Lute lottors bearing an oxtra foo of sixponoo, In addition to the poßtago, will bo reooivod by the Mail Agont on board tho steamer up to tho timo of sailing. Tills mall will bo duo In London on Tuesday, April 12. N.B—A Post-oflloo lms boon oponed at Opaheko. near Ilamararuti. Mails will oloso at thi* ofllco ovory Friday at 7 p.m. Return malls will bo roceivod ovory Saturday at 9.15 n.m. S. B. Hld9, Chief Postmaster. Chief I'oet-ofllco. Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

FfcnRUAKY 22nd, 1831. Thoatro Royal—" Shin Fano,"B p.m. TJniiod Methodist Freo Church—Toa and and publio mooting, 6.30 p.m. Primitive Mothodist Chapel, Newmarket— Anniversary meotlng, 6 30 p.m. Scottish Company Parado -Drill-shod, 7.30 p.m. Lornoftreet Hall-Rohoarsal for Mrs Glovor's concert, 7 30 p.m.

Death.

FALLS.—On February 10t.lt. at Wlmngarol. Jamos, second son of llonry and Kleiutor Jane Falls, asred 12 years and 8 months. Acoidontal death.

O'BRlKN.—Drowned nt Napior on February 19, in Fohui River, whllo orossing to tho Mohaka Gold fields, Denis Rcubim, second sou ot tho late Thomas O'Brien, of Onehungii; agod 2S years.

Notices to Correspondents.

OnADIAH.—Tho great tiro hotweon tho Markot and Thontro buildings [took p'aoo on tho 7th of Soptombor, 1573. K.H. (Helensville).—Put tho E?qulro boforo tho M.P.

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

TUESDAY. FEBRUARY 22, 1881.

For the aus that neks assistance, For tho wrong that needs resistance, For the future in the distance, And the ocd that we can do

We hereby certify the issue of the Auckland Evening Star jor the week ending February I'ith, ISSI, to have been as under: —■ Monday, Feb. 14 6,342 Tuesday, „ 15 6,318 Wednesday,, IG 6,336 Thursday, „ 17 6,444 Friday, „ IS 6,360 Saturday, „ 19 6,599

Total issuo for week... 38,399 OEORGH! FRASER) Publlo Account > ant and T. LKI«H WIJTTKlcitv Auditws.

Owing to pressure of nows to-day, we are compelled to exclude all leading matter and correspondence.

Messrs Kraser ana Wnite, City Auditors aad Public Accountants, certify that the issue of tho Evening Star last week was 38,390.

The City Council have appointed Mr Gco. Strong keeper of the new public baths at the foot of Hardinge-street, with a view of accommodating the public during the present warm weather. Mr Strong has been instructed not to wait tor the erectiou of tho keeper's house, &c, but to open the baths to-morrow morning, the charge for entrance being one penny. Mr Strong being authoriied to supply towels or bath ing drawers at a charge of one penny for each article to those requiring their use, The committee have recommended the Council to further authorise half-a-dozen separate compartments being enclosed for ladies' use only. The baths will be open to ladies only between the hours of 9.30 to 11.30 on every day except Saturday and Sunday. With this exception gentlemen may bathe from sunrise to sunset during week days, and till 10 o'clock on Sunday morning. The charge for admission will be one penny.

accommodating the public during the present warm weather. Mr Strong has been instructed not to wait tor the erectiou of tho keeper's house, &c, but to open the baths to-morrow morning, the charge for entrance being one penny. Mr Strong being authoriied to supply towels or bath ing drawers at a charge of one penny for each article to those requiring their use, The committee have recommended the Council to further authorise half-a-dozen separate compartments being enclosed for ladies' use only. The baths will be open to ladies only between the hours of 9.30 to 11.30 on every day except Saturday and Sunday. With this exception gentlemen may bathe from sunrise to sunset during week days, and till 10 o'clock on Sunday morning. The charge for admission will be one penny. As Mrs Hampson was about to proceed to the wharf, one ot the local ministers volun teered to carry any small parcel she might have, whereupon the good lady—handing tho gentleman a little bag containing her Bible—said : " Here, carry my sword." "Cannot you let me have your mantle ilso ?" said the minister. " That you musl isk the Lord for," replied Mrs Hampson.— 'Thames Advertiser." "Happily, expulsion from an English Jrder is a very rare occurrence, says the Whitehall Review oE Nov. 25th, and last Friday's Gazette, containing a Koyal 'direction" that the name of Mr James 3raig Loggio should be erased from the egister of the Order of St.Michael and St. Jeorge, was on that account all tho more loticeable. As plenty of people will bo vondering what it is all about, here are the acts. Loggic, originally, I fancy, a sar ;eant in the Sappers, took charge of some loussas in the Ashantee war. This- was at lie very commencement of the campaign, yen before Posting went out, and a CM.G. ,fas the prompt reward. Subsequently ho raa made Civil Commandant of British herborough, near Sierra Leone, and 'hileholding that post misappropriated the üblic funds. Ho is now undergoing two ears] imprisonment. I cannot remember a ngle instance of expulsion—at all events, othiDg of the kind has happened for ears. The concert for the benefit of Mrs lover and family of six children will be yen to-morrow evening in Lome-street all, by members of the Auckland Garrick lub and local performers and vocalists, he programme promises two dramatic eces and an intervening musical mblange, he "lady for whose benefit the concert has ien projected is well-known as Miss issie Raymond by the public, and her lents and present position merit some sist;ini:e. As sbe Las been so lone and

As Mrs Hampson was about to proceed to the wharf, one ot the local ministers volun teered to carry any small parcel she might have, whereupon the good lady—handing tbe gentleman a little bag containing her Bible—said : " Here, carry my sword." "Cannot you let me have yonr mantle also ?" said the minister. " That you must ask the Lord for," replied Mrs liampson.— "Thames Advertiser."

"Happily, expulsion from an English Order is a very rare occurrence, says the Whitehall Review oE Nov. 25th, and last Friday's Gazette, containing a Royal "direction" that the name of Mr James Craig Loggic should be erased from the register of the Older of St.Michael and St. George, was on that account all tho more noticeable. As plenty of people will bo wondering what it is all about, here are the facts. Loggic, originally, I fancy, a sar geant in the Sappers, took charge of some Houssas in the Ashantee war. This- wa.s at tae very commencement of the campaign, even before Festing went out, and a CM.G. was the prompt reward. Subsequently he was made Civil Commandant of British Sherborough, near Sierra Leone, and whileholding that post misappropriated the public funds. Ho is now undergoing two years] imprisonment. I cannot remember a single instance of expulsion—at all events, nothing of the kind has happened for years.

The concert for the benefit of Mrs Glover and family of six children will be given to-morrow evening in Lome-street Hall, by members of the Auckland Garrick Club and local performers and vocalists. The programme promises two dramatic pieces and an intervening musical melange, The "lady for whose benefit the concert has been projected is well-known as Miss Jessie Raymond by the public, and her talents and present position merit some assistance. As she bas been so long and favourably known as a local actress, it was rightly considered that the Garrick Club should espouse her cause and win some practical sympathy for the widow, and especially as the burdens of her young family rests upon her exertions. Sympathy added to benevolent action is of service, otherwise it is like faith without work, worthy only of the paupers' crust. Mr A. Smith and several ladies and gentlemen ore exerting them selves energetically, and, we hope, for the sake of the widow and children, that some thing will bo done which will prove of "mcly service.

Shortly after the arrival of the Australian cricketers this morning, Mr Alexander received a cablegram stating that the return match between the representative team and the Combined Eleven of Victoria and New South Wales has been definitely arrauofd for the sth, 7th, aud Bth of March. The cricketers lcavo hero for Sydney to-morrow night. At a meeting of delegates from the several Societies intending to take part in the proposed demonstration on 17th March held last evening, Mr 11. (!. Dorriogton was appointed Isecretary in place of Mr Bnkewcll (resigned), through uutorsecn circumstances, and Mr U. Waiburlon was ..elected Chairman in lieu of Mr Dorrington. Mr Andrews was appointed canvasser for any contributions or trophies towards the sports, as well as getting names to the petitiou for proclaiming tlio dayXholiday. At the close of the busincss'proccndiiigs of tho Auckland Institute, l)r Pnrchns made some interesting observations on Professor Graham Boll's now invention, the pholophonc, which led to a brief bin interesting discussion. Dr. Purchas said the greatest ami most wonderful of Professor Boll's scicutilic inventions was the photophouo. 'i ho Doctor gavo mi account of the facts aud expeiiments which led tn the discovery, and which .showed that liyhi had tho power of variation in its progrcs, tiiud which promised to renliso tlio poetic dreams of tlio ages, or in tho Professor's words, it would enable people to .hour n shadow, and cause sound to bo sout along a beam of light. The remarks called forth others and may probably form the subject of a paper nt the Institute in the course of \ tho session.

The quiet, romantic, and delightfully situated cpots that are to bo tound in many partH of Stokes' Point aro now becoming tn he more fully appreciated than formerly, Jus will be evidenced by the large liuinbirj of visitors that go there. The plonsitre-seelii'iv< who ;irofer tho cool shade of .some com fortable nook or cranny, far away from the busy haunts of man, will have their wishen gratified by paying a visit to that favourite resort. Many of our loading mon, particu larly those who, for reasons best known to themselves, prefer " not" to be the observed of nil observeis, resort thither to enjuy tlu freshening breeze, etc.

Tho Dunedin Friendly Societies' Hull Company allowed their water pipe to ovor- How, whereby their tcnuant on the ground floor fliiflerrcd daniago, ami now they have to pay the piper in the slmpo (if £500 dama ges, and piobably tho costs will bo as much more. i(rti('ilrt]

The posthumous play (if Lord Lyt'.ou, Booms to imvo been condemned before it has made its appearance on tho stage. One crttii: suya he read the work in manu script some years ago, and pronounces it a most droary affair, Mr Henry Irving has declined mi oiler that was made to him, to play the hero.

Tho adjourned meeting of the members of fie Working Men's Club whs held lunt ni^ht for the purpoio of electing officer.''. The result stands thus:—President, Mr Peter Dignnn (elected last week); Vice president, Mr M. Burnett; Treasurer, Mr Thomas T, Gillibrand ; Committed : Messrs Kenneth Mel.end, Allen, Mesaago, T. Tnpp, J. Trenwith, Harry Wright, and Edgar ; Auditors : Messrs Leaning and Derrom.

The heuriug of the several charges of forging and uttering against John Pureell will be resumed on Friday morning before Mr Har.tow nt the Police Court. The 3rd of March in to be observed as a half-holiday in Wliangarci, in honour of the official opening of the Kauio railway. The "Advocate" fears that tho Govern ment will feel it necessary now to bad the lines with officials, and occupy the station master's bonnes at both cuds. It hopes Mih will not bo done as the profits of the line will thereby bo greatly diminished. It observes :—" We should like to see the American principle adopted hero, namely, to givo the guard complete control of the goods and passenger traffic, and let him do nil the clerical work, issue of tickets, &c. For the present, at any rate, that would suffice."

Tin residence of Wellington Moser, on Central Avenue, Heading, Pcnu., wan des troyed by liro on Jan. 11th, caused by the explosion of a kerosino lamp, The explo sion occurred in tho rliuing-room, where the family had just linished supper. The cloth ing of three children wan ignited from tho burning oil, and two oi (hum, a baby MX months old, and Sallio Uottonbnrger, aged 14, who had juat called, were burned tn death. The third, Mary Moser, aged 8, was rescued, but was fatally burned. David Maurer, a boarder, was badly burned whilo trying to savo the children.

The Tc Arolia correspondent of tho

" Waikato Times " nays : " The excitement concerning tho [murder has cooled down somewhat and work, which had been pretty well suspended in nonin of tho claim*, hna been resumed. Tlio natives have held a (.'rent tan<ji over the remains of the unlor tunata native at the Ngatihokn pah, at which a great quantity of Kai wi\s con sumed and the usual amount of talk in dulged in. This appears to hare acted us a vent for their excitement, and they are now again visiting tho Township in considerable numbers, nlwajH clearing out, however, before sunset, as nothing would induce them to pass the spot whore tho murder was committed after dark. They have also tapued the creek, which runs past O'Halloran's Hotel, on account of water from it being used to wash the body of the murdered man, and aro very particular in seeing that the water they drink, even iv the hotel, doci'uot come from that source."

The latest stoiy from the Empire City (remarks the " Waikato Mail") i.s about our friend Luckie, the lucky Commissioner of Annuities, with a salary ot £600 a year. The Commissioner dropped in one day upon oue of his clerks, who was perched on a very lofty stool, with head bowed over a long column of figures, aud apparently absorbed iv mournful reverie.

But llttlo work had done ho In tho ofllco thoro that day, Save sorre sketches llKht and funny. And a voucher (or his pay, Just to while the time away.

So deep was the meditation ot that clerk, that he noticed not the coming of the dreaded chief. There was a long silence which was broken by the Commissioner, who said in answer to an inquiring stare from the absent-minded clerk, 'I'm Luckio,' " I wiih to blazes I was," replied the young Tite Barnacle, "I've drawn the favourite, and that wretch North has bolted to Cali fornia with tho entire feweep."

The members of the A.N.B. assembled at the rifle range on Saturday afternoon to fire for the monies annually presented to the Brigade by the United Insurance) Asso ciation, open to members who assist tho Fire Brigade whenever called upon. The firing party were under the command of Lieutenant Parker. The following are the succefsful competitors : —P.O. M. J. Meore, 62; P.O. F. Smith, G2 ; Seaman F. Lamb, 58 ; Seaman D. Jones, 55 ; P.O. Finloy, 55; Seaman Dodds, 54 ; Seaman LeGrid'on, 54 ; Seaman Hatdiug, 52; Seaman P. Moulder), 48; Seaman Harvey, 46; P.O. G. Moore, 45 ; P.O. J. Scullon, 43 ; Seaman J. Clarke, 42; Seaman T. Moulden, 38; Seaman C. liorfham, 35 ; Seaman J. Stanley, 35 ; P.O. J. Wait, 35; Seaman Sturch,2B; Seaman Sobman, 14 ; P.O. Hughes, 9.

Upon the fearful infant mortality, an "Observer" writes: " Sir,—You needn't express any fiirprhc at the extraordinary cumber of deaths in our infant population, seeing the heats aud colds they are exposed to in being driven about all weathers in tho«e perambulators for the exhibition of their cjach-driver.". Young women who lay themselves out as nurses arc above carrying infants in their arms—a vulgar usage of the olden timen-having too much to do to carry themselvep, owing to thc{way they are obliged to squeeze their bodies out of shape and tie thoir legs together in order to comply with the ruling fashion. Besides they need both hands for personal use—the oue to hold up the unnecessary part of their dress, and the other to carry their parasol. You surely wouldn't be so unreasonable ss to expect a ladj'd maid—l beg pardon, assis tant—to venture along the pavcrnent or across the street iv daylight without a parasol to protoct her beauty. Although there may happen to lie neither ami, wind nor raiu at the time, that doesn't dispenso with the necessity of being genteel."

The annual meeting of the Church of England congregation at Newton was held iv the Epiphany Church, Newtou West, on Friday night, the 18th iust., at 8 p.m., about 40 members being present, The chair was occupied by tho ltev. J. Haselden. The meeting having been opened with prayer, the report for the year 1880 was read; and the accounts were likewise sub mitted and passed. The chairman an nounced that he had much pleasure in appointing Mr George Stanton as minister's warden, that gentleman having consented to act, and Mr W. A. Probert was elected people's warden. The following gentlemen were elected vestrymen for the current year, viz. : Messis Thomas Holder, E. V. Llewelyn, John Masou, John Birnie, and George Thomas Hogg. Mr Taylor was elected auditor. A vote of thanks was accorded to the members of the choir for their gratuitous services, as also to the out going committee, and after lixing the minis ter's stipend, organist's salary, aud discus sing sundry other church matters, the chairman closed the meeting Iv the usual manner.

John Foss, butcher, charged to-day with a breach of tho city byo-laws, was told by the Chairman of the CourS of Petty Sessions that every citizen ought <o be acquainted with tho laws. Mr Foss in gcuiously replied that bucli knowledge was too much for any ordinary man, and scarcely within the cranium of tho shrewdest lawyer, Tho answer saved Mr Foss 18 pence. He was fined Is instead of 2s Cd.

The first meeting of the Board of uiiev torn of the Southern Cioas Petroleum Co. (Limited) was held on Thursday last, iv Gisborne, and confirmed the action ot the managing directors in accepting tenders fcr works now iv progress. Tenders were ac cepted for the erection of the houses (threo) and derrick, and it is intended to push these on as rapidly us possible, to be ready for tho gear, &c , by the middlo of March. The Kosina has been laid on for an excur sion to Anatnii, on the 2Gth, when a numbei of the directors and shareholders will visit the oil block, and the sito for works will he located by Mr Clarke.

A meeting of violinists an others wns held last ovoolng at tho shop of Mr Eagletoll in (Jueoii-street, for tho purpose of taking the preliminary steps in the establishment of a Philharmonic Society, under tho management of Mr Calliuu. There wore present ten lirst violinists, six second violinists, two violoncellists, two clarionet players, ono cornetist, and two conceit ilaulislH. Mr Boyle explained that it wa> Mr Caillii it's intention to form a thoroughly elliciont Philharmonic Society, and tliut that meeting had been convened in order that :in ell'cctivc orchestra, might bo got together. It was proposed to suggest as n sino qua lion to membership that applicants tor admission tliould first be touted mid approved by the conductor. Tho HingoM would bo admitted in the same way. A general discussion ensued, in the courso of which tho schemo was apokon very favourably of. It wna evontually decided that nil present should undergo the test, and that the result should Do an nounced at a future meeting.

SCINTILLATIONS.

"Ho brier; for X in win words OS with sun beams: tho morn Uioy iiro ooudenaod the dooiior thoy burn."—Houtiibv,

Rimonsen's Opera Company are a hucccbh in Wellington.

Mm Mncphorsou hns started cookery classes in Dunedin.

Mr btudholme's wheat crop in (Jnnlorbui j is averaging 50 bushels per acre.

A marked increase in regular Church attendance ut tho Thames is miili to have followed Mrs Humpson's services there.

A horse ridden by Miss M. A. ForyiiHßou, of GnibaiiiHtown, collided with a vehicle throwing the ridsr and injuring her ankle badly.

A hnmkomo bat to be presented by Mr M. Gallagher to tho highest ncorer on the Auckland side in the cricket match against the Australians in on view in Mr W. W. Uobiusou's window, Queen-Btrcct.

Two thousand natives are assembling fur the great tungi over tho defunct Taurauga chief llori Tnp.'ira. Tho affair will cost about £500, and natives are selling land to pay the expense

Forty-four new services havo been con nected with the city water supply during the lost four weeks.

Iv addition to the uamcH already pub lished, Herbert John James, of Auckland, has Miccoosfully pnuod the matriculation standard in tho Junior Scholarship Ex amination for JN.Z. University.

The Ihflt instalment of tho Property Tax is payable on March Ist, and the fecond instalment on March 22nd, at the Deputy Commiflflioiior'H office.

Mr Skirving, Arms Ullicer, has been promoted to tho office of Licensing Officer fm Auckland, on the recommendation of Mr .Superintendent Thomson. The mid-day prayer meeting for young men, started by the Key. I)r Somerville, in Dunedin, three year* ago, is Htill curried on between 12,30 and 1.30 p.m. every Mouday. Very cheap is mostly very dear. A new plush, with face of downy cream white over a ground of rich amaranth red, is called strawberrios-aud-cream. Mother? "Now, Gerty, bo n good girl, and giro Aunt Julia a ki^s, and say good night," Gerty : " No, no ;if I kiss her she'll box my cursi, like she did papa's lost night 1"

J adies will be glnd to hear that " fluttered frog " is the name of the last new colour ; it is rather lighter than " frightened toiid '

or " angry mouse." Parnell's Lambs.-—Paddy : Hut what 11 we d", Mike, if the Liberator becomes a landlord himself ? Mike: Och, shure, thin, we'll jist shoot hi.H tiusnta for him I In Hopes. — Sergeant ol Polico(to Hobby): What o'clock is it? Bobby: t oin't Rot a watch. Sergeant: Not cut a watch ! How long have you been in the force? Hobby : Tlirfe months, "ir. Sorgcant : Three mouths and no watch ! Hobby: Please, nir, 1 ain't had no night duty yet.—"Judy."

"The Waits and Weight."—First pas senger (who has just mis^eil hii tram) 1 Let's go and see what our weight v>. Second ditto: Humph! I know what mine in; my wait's about three-quarters of an hour. A guindiirger endeavoured to ' slope ' from VVhangarei on Thnradny evening by the Waitaki without parting satisfactorily from his storekeeper, who met him on the wharf and cxposulatcd with tho levsntcr, Result : One, if not two, ' black peepers ' for the storekeeper. Mr Millais's picture at the Hanover Gal lery, " Tho Bridesmaid," 1b a study of his daughter as she appeared at her sister's wedding. A New York book-trader has trrived in Louden, and is now industriously ofl'eriiiK American reprints of Lord,Beaconstield's 30 novel, "JErulymion," at the price of lOd per copy. A girl just returned from school snid, upon seeing a fire-engine at work, "Who would cvah havo dweamed such a diminu tive nppowatus would bold so much wattnh I"

The sermon of the best preacher in the world will not make so much iinpro*sion upou a congregation ns the sudden patter ing of rain on the window panes of a church containing two huudred new summer bonnets,

Little Jeanne has a sister, a year married. Last week this sister became the mother of a pretty baby. " Loot, mademoiselle," said the nurse, showing the new-born to its liltlc aunt. Isn't it the prettiest dolly you ever saw ?" Jeanne dauccd with delight. Then she approached to take it from the nurse's arms. A cry of disgust arose. " Pooh?" screamed Jeanuo, " It's nothing but a meat baby."

A Want Supplied. —(Scene—Streot In French town). Smithers : " Why, Swcll ington, whatever aro you doing with two hats?" Swellingtou : "Idea of my ovru, dear boy. In this country v fellow in always lifting his hat. What are tho conse quences?—disreputable tiles, colds in the head. What's the remedy! A bowing hat I"

A young physician, on returning from his vacation, found hi« patients as lively ns crickets. " Humph 1" said ho grimly, " I'll stay at homo and look after these people hereafter." "Mary Jane," said ho, "I think if you lifted your feet away from the fire wo might have some heat in the room." And they hadn't been married many years, cither.

A gentleman who was taking a quiet walk through iv cemetery one day, ob served the following epitaph which had bscn elegantly inscribed on a tombstone by the friends of a certain "engineer ' of some roputo. " Here lies our 'steamed friend : ho icsts in pieces."

AN EX-MAGISTRATE HOUSE WHIPPED.

(BY TEtjKGRAI'II, TRES3 ASSOCIATION.)

WELLINGTON, this day. Jamks Cotitts Ckawfoed, tormorly E.M. of Wellington, and who only returned from a visit to England on Sunday morning, was assaulted in the street this morning by a mau named George Stylos, who exit him with a whip. Styles has been arrested. Tho reason i 6 believed to be in connection with a decision given by Mr Crawford two or three years ago.

HARBOUR BOARD.

MX COMPTON ELECTED CHAIRMAN

The first meeting of tbo Harbour Board since the recent elections, took place this afternoon, there being present: —Messrs Boylan, McKenzie, Stone, Thompson, Aickin, Isaacs, Dalcly, Mays, aud Morrin. Mr Boylan having been voted to the chair annnounced that the first business was the election of a Chairman for the ensuing year.—After Borne slight hesitation Mr McKenzio proposed ami Mr Aicken seconded that Mr F. E. Compton .should be Chairmau.—Wo other uoinina -1 (ions being forthcoming, tho motion was nut and passed. —"nem cod."— Mr Compton acknowledged the com pliment just paid him, and then proposed n vote of thanks to the retiring chairman, which was duly seconded and carried.—Mr Mackenzie replied, and tho Board then adjourned till Tuesday next. '

WRECK OF THE HYDRABAD BURNED.

[BY TKLEQRAPII.—PUESS ASSOCIATION,]

OTaKI, this day. The stranded ship Ilydrabad, at Horo whenuo, caught lire about 2 o'clock this morning, and is completely gvitted out. Tho cause of the fire is unknown,

NEWTON EAST SCHOOL DISTRICT.

A SLIGHT MISUNDERSTANDING,

A MEETING of householders iv the Nowton East educational district was held in the schoolroom lust evening.

On the motion of Mr Hidings, Mr Joseph Warren was elected Chairman.

The Chairman, in opening theproceedings, said, as they were aware, this was an ad journment of the lirst meeting held for the reception of a statement or. accounts for tho past year from the Hoard of Education. He had since then interviewed Mr Rice, who had forwarded a statement of accounts, which was as follows : —Payment made by Board on account of tho year 1880 : Newton Kasr, £20 12s Gd ; Nowton West, £10 7s ; FnuldeVa account, £8 2s Gd-£3l) Is Bd. Payments for current year : Newton East, £•1 7h; Newton Went, £1 lGs—£C4s. Tho lioard would debit the new committee with the sum of £(i 4s, being the amount ad vanced by the lioard since January 1, Mr McGregor rose and wished to refute some statemont mado by Mr Garrett at the lant meeting, which ho oonsidored sennda louh, and as ousting sonio reflection on his honesty. — After considerable discussion it was resolved that Mr McGregor should not interrupt the pioceedings, and that the mooting proceed to tho election of a com mittee immediately, giving Mr McGregor tho option of venting his wrongs after the li'gnl business wan transacted. Thereupon tho Chairman read the orJor of procedure according to the Act, and requested the meeting to appoint scrutineers and uominato clogiblo mon lor tho rommittoe. Messrs Shepherd, Taylor, Connolly, aud DincH weio appointed scrutineers, and nominatiotiH wero taken, fifteen gentle mon being proposod. Tho rosult of the ballot was at follows : — Mcßars J. 1). Bovan, 50 ; J. B. Moll, 53 ; John liirnie, 44 ; John .hnkin, HI; Joseph Warran, 24; J. C. WilkOH, 24; Enoch Wood, '20 (tlioso were elected); J. Jackson, ]',); Georgo Hums, 18 ; ltev. Potor Masou, 17; J. Jleape, Ili ; Thomas Ilobaon, 15; llenry Hidings, 12. Messrs F. C. Cherry and Young Warren were nominated, but declinod to stand.

During the time required for tho scrutiny of tho ballot paper*, a very animated discus sion arose in tho following manner : — A householder cried out : Sue' lievin tramping to and iro with more papers; some duo else sesd up half-a-dozen, A voico : Oh, ho'ii only acting us fluukey fur hid friendi.

Mr lievin (who had boon bimily canvasH ing Hoverallutu arrivals) : 1 was only deliver ing these gentlemen paper*, snd 1 suppose any one would do tho same. Cries of '' Let them tuko up their own papers." A voico : It don't look well any how,

Mr Bevin : Well, don't puss remarks.

Mr Giirrett: Surely tho chairman of a Highway liourd ought to know tho order of procedure The question then aroso as to whether tho voters nhould have signed their names to their papers, and it proved that Mr Bevin had been particular in procuring signatures to all ho tent iv.

Tho Chairman : If tho voting papors are signed they must bo considered illegal. Mr Hevin : Why did not tho chairman tell us before? (Lauyliior.)

The Chairman : I did tell you ; but if Mr Kevin did not know and had .-iskod me I would have told him.

Then arose a regular uproar, Two gentle men, after a good live iiiiuut.es' heated dis cussion about tho nignatures to tho ballot papers, found to their chagrin that they had bolli been arguing for tlio samo point, and Bat down ivinid roars of lnuglitor.

A Householder : Hut if the papers with out «ij;?i«ti!rcH are illegal, how do wo know that Mr Bevin has not carted up half a dozen of his own ?

The Chairman : Tho whole matter is now out of my hands, tho meeting having np pointed scrutinccro. Mr Jenkins moved, "That'1 '< desirablo to extend tho boundary of h! Newton school district as far bb tho bou 'nry of tho Archhill district, so na to iuclu c the resi dents in Newton West."

Tho motion was adopted, nml It wan agreed to forward it to the Uonrd of Education.

Mr Hidings proposed a voto of thanks to the Chairman, and the Chairman declared the meeting closed.

A general movement was made for tho door, when Mr McGregor Inquired if ho was not to be allowed a hearing.

Mr Warren : Gentlemen, Mr McGregor wishes to address a few wrds to ycu, and you Imd better appoint a chairman.

Messrs Marsdcn, Cherry, and several others were proposed, but declinod to occupy the chair.

Mr McGregor : Well, gentlemen, you refuse to give mo a hearing, and I con sider that 1 have boon treated chamefully. I have been the subject of half a column of personal abuse ; a regular made-up affair, and if you will not listen to tuo I must appeal through the public press. Mr Cherry : If you think I wish to pre vent you having a hearing, Mr McGregor, you are mistaken, and to enable you to speak, I will consent to tako the chair. Mr Cherry occupied tho chair and Mr McGregor proceeded :—Mr Chairman and gentlemen,—At the last public meet ing held on January 24th last, I was unablo to be present, and had no legal right to bo present because I was out of the district. At that meeting sundry information was hinted at as being wanted, which I could supply, and I havo at tended to-night to supply that information. First of all I will read jou a portion of tho report from the Stak and ask you is It correct. It is as follows :—" Mr Garrett stated that on examining tho treasurer's hook he found a grout many discrepancies, lie placed tliebooksinthehandsoftbo chair man, who said ho would get them rectified. The book was never returned again until the end of May last year; but accounts had .been brought forward, and money had been expended. He had reason to believe that Mr Kwington's accounts were perfectly correct, as he paid everything consecutively by cheque, but that the chairman tampered with (he book and made several alterations, after which ho (Mr Garrett) refused to have anything further to do with it. Everything therefore remained between tho chair man and tho cccretary. The money paid and accounted for, to far as he had fouud out, was about £11 5s lid. Ho did not beliovo that money had been mis appropaiatod, but there had been a foolish and careless method of keeping accounts, and he was of opinion that the 1 late chairman, Mr McGregor, knew nothing at all about book-keeping. 1 Now I ask you if that ia n. correct report, so far as it goes. (Cries of " Yes,") Well, gentlemen, hero arc four distinct charges against me—Orst, that there were great dis, crepancics in tho Treasurer's book ; second that I tampered with the book ; third, that 'money was misappropriated. ("No no.") Well; any money paid away and not put through the Chairman's hands is misappro priated. Tho fourth charge was that tho Chairman knew nothing of book-keeping ; but of this he did not desire to speak, as he considered it no business of anybody. At the time tho book was handed over to Mr Garrett, no one had made any entries except Mr Ewington, and Mr Wade passed tho accounts as correct, taking them out of my hands. I do not believe I saw the insido of tho book. Then there is a state ment that a sum of £11 5s lid was spent without tho knowledge or consent of the committee. As Mr Garrett had the books with him, he might shew to what extent tho discrepancies arc. With regard to tho charge of " tampering," I look upon it as a felony or misdemeanour, and do not think any reasonablo man will charge me with a crime of that description, and 1 have somo reason to hopo that I hare enlightenod tho meeting. As to my bookkeeping abilities, it is nobody's business.

Mr Garrett : Gentlemen, —I think we must thank Mr McGregor for his calm and dispassionato defence. But if as much had been said about me I would have had my monkey np at once. At the last meeting, tho Chairman being absent, it devolved upon me to make some explanation -with re ference to the treasurer's book. I will tako Mr McGregor's statement in order. Ho seems to think that being a public servant his actions were not open to question, but I think that if a public servant does anything contrary to the wishes of the householders, they have a right to express their disap proval. The whole charge consisted in this —that monies were received and paid away I without passing through the treasurer's hand?, and of which thero was no record kept, aud I am making no assertion which lam not able to provo. There were several receipts entered in the book after (hey had been audited by Mr Wndc and Mr McGregor said monies had been paid. Mr McGregor also takes exception to the term "tampered," When I used the word 1 considered it quite applicable, but did not '

intend to convey the idea that tho B 0"'10" man was guilty of any dishonesty. When tho Look was handed to mo I noticed several strange things, and drew tho atten tion of the secretary to them, in conse quence of which ho took it home, saying that he would try and " Lick it into shape. The book was" afterwards taken to Mr Wade, with the Consent of the com mittee. I refused to take the book over until it was put straight. I say the book was tampered with because several entries pertinent to Mr Ewiugton d term had been entered by Mr McGregor, There were several small sums of money paid to different parties, amounting, in all, to £11 odd, of which no record appeared, and according to the Treasurer's book the money was virtually lost. There was nothing said degrading to Mr McGregor s capabilities as a man, but as a Chairman. Things went on until the Committee re ceived notice from Mr Kico that £11 odd had been deducted from tho capitation fees. A gentleman horo rose and said ho was desirous of throwing oil upon tho troubled waters, and would move "That Mr McGregor's explanation is con sidered quito satisfactory." He thought on injudicious action might be done without pocketing £5, and it should bukept in mind that Mr Oarrett admitted that there wna no misappropriation. There was too much feeling introduced into the matter altogether. Mr McGregor made a further explanation to the effect that he only entered Amounts which Mr Garrett refused to enter, to which Mr Garrett replied at some length. Tho Chairman: I feel that anyone who knows Mr McGregor would not charge him with misappropriation ; but I must admit that he had a very looso system of book keeping. Mr Garrett dosirod to movo an amend ment, apparently with tho object of making another speech, but tho Chairman objocted. Tho motion was then put and carried—lo ngaiuut 3. COMMITTEE MEETING. At the meeting of tho newly-elected com mittee, Mr Joseph Wnrren whs elected Chairman, and the following business trans acted. Mr Wilkes was appointod treasurer, and agreed to act as secretary pro. tern. A circular was roceivod from the Board relatire to the pending elec tion of members and Ftating tli.it tho gentlemen already nominated to lill three vacancies were, Mows Mont, Darguville, Thompson, and Hobbs. The City school Committee also forwarded a circular soliciting their voto for Mr Thomas Thompson as a rcprenentative on the Hoard.—Mr Birnle proposed "That the committee nominato Messrs Hobbs, Moat, and Thompaoii."—Mr Warren, as an amend ment, proposed "'lhat Mr Dargavillc's numo be Biibntiluted for thut of Mr liobbs." On being mibmittsd to the committee they decided to lill in tho names of the first throe gentlemen proposed. — Another circulnr from tho City Schools Committee called attention to tho advisability of holding a preliminary conferenco of representatives of tho various school committees in tho immediutb neighbourhoods for tho purpOHO of preparing a pro gramrno for tho Conference on March 11th, nnd requesting that two mcmbcitjof tho Nowton East Committee would meet tor thnt purpoßO on Friday, the 25th innt., in the WcllcHlcy-street school. A third cir cular from the City Committee set forth Unit "In onnncqucnco of tho persistent encroachment by tho Hoard of Educa tion on tho rights nnd privileges (if the Committee on conferred by the Act, it has beon deomed advimiblo thut n confer ence of all tho school committees of the dis trict should be held for ihe purpoao of tak ing iuU consideration the working of tlio Education Act, especially with reference to the rolntion between tho Board and the Committee to deci.lo what steps should be taken in tho interests of tho latter. Your representatives »ro rc«pect fully invited to utteud the Conferenco on March 11th. It is deemed desirable that as many of tho School Committees »s possible should be represented, and thnt were it found impossible tor any of the members to bo present it was suggested that some person should be nuthorieod to attend on their behalf, or send such authority to the Chairman of tho City Committee."— Messrs Bcviu and Wilkcs were appointed to represent the Comtnittoo at the Con ference, nnd this being all tho business the meeting terminated.

AUCKLAND INSTITUTE.

TllK nnnua mcctlug ot tlio Auckland In stitato was weli attended last evening ; Dr

I'urclins t • chair. The minutes were confirmed ; and, hftor a few remarks from tho Chairman, Mr J. F. Cheeseman, tho Secretary, read a full report of the pn^t year» proceedings ; ftlso, tho balance-sheet of receipts and expenditure for the same

period. We Rather from tho report, which wna lengthy and interesting, the following extracts :—Thirty additional members have been elected since the last annual meeting.

Three names have been removed by death,

five have bcon transferred to other brunches of the Now Zealand Institute, while seven teen members have either left the colony or ceased to subscribe- The total number on the register is now 277. —Tho attendance at the lccturos was remarkably cood, mid much public interest was evinced in them;

but the Council rrgret to state that they have

not been the means of so largely adding to thenumberof subscribers as was anticipated. As in former year.-", the Council have to acknowledge the receipt of a large number of additions and donations, full particulars of which will bo found appended. Tho;e of special interest will bo briefly alluded to in the following resume of the work per formed in the Museum during tho year :—

The question of a landed endowment for the Museum has repeatedly engaged the attention of the Council, and the subject has been brought by them before the Waste Lands Board. The Board has favourably recommended the matter to the notice of the Government, and it is hoped that sonic action may be taken during the next session of Parliament. With tho limited revenue of the Institute-, it every year becomes more dilh'cult to provide /or the rapidly increasing collections, whiloitis altogether hopeless to anticipate that the necessary fittings and requisites can bo provided, and the Museum made of real use as an educational institution Tho Council trust that tho Auckland members of Parliament will uso their best endeavours to placo their Museum on a footing of equality with similar Institutions in the Southern provinces, for which, as is well known, .ample provision ha% long |sinco been made. Tho scientific and reference library of the lnstituto i 9 fast attaining respectable pro portions, and now contains over 1,400 volumes of well-selected works. Duriug the year a grant of £57 10s has been re ceived under the provisions of tho Public Libraries Subsidies Act. This amount has been oxponded In the purchase of standard scientific works, vow on their way fioni London. The Council has special pleasure in drawing attontion to a most valuable donation received from Mr J. T. Mackelvie, consisting of a complete! set of the publica tions of the Royal Agricultural Society ; also, a set of tho Proceedings of the Zoo-

ogical Society from their commencement in 1830 up to 1566", in all 75 volumes. Mr Mackelvie's frequont, and always valuable aud appropriate donations, both to the museum and library, have cortainly entitled him to the warmest thanks of the Institute. Mention should also bo made of a complete set of tho publications of the Novnra expo dition, obtainod through tho kind offices of Dr. Hochstetter and Dr. C. F. Fischer. The balance Bhewod receipts £584; leaving a balanco of £42 19s Id in the bank. On the motion of Mr Josiah Martin, seconded by Mr Johnstone, the report and balance sheet were adopted, and were ordered to be printod for the use of members.

President.—The Chairman said their next duty was to elect a president. On tbe last occasion, Mr Fenton was elected, but woold not plodge himself to fill the office. Subsequently Mr Fenton declined to act, nnd, in accordance with rule 10, he, Dr. Purchas, was elected to fill the vacancy.— Mr Justico Gillies then, in laudatory aud •« ell-merited terms, proposed Mr Thomas Poacock as president of the Institute.— Mr Mackechnie felt much pleasure in seconding Mr Gillies' proposition. The The feeling in favour of Mr Peacock was unanimous and the Chairman declared Mr Poacock duly elected to the chair of the Institute. Mr Peacock replied, and said that he was induced, after mveh con sideration, to accept the office in the hope that he should have tha sympathy of the members in tho work of dut\', which lie would endeavour to the bost of his abtlity to discharge faithfully. Council.—The election of Councilmen was then proceeded by ballot, there being : fourteen gentlemen nominated, and the number required beiug eleven.—The following members were elected:-Dr. Campbell, Colonel Haultain, Dr. Purcbas, Xcv, Joseph Bates, and Messrs Firth, Graves Aickcn, Percy Smith, Josiah Martin, J. A. Pond, E. A. Mackcchnio, and Neil Heath. Mr Thos. Mncll'arlaue was re-appointed Auditor. Fotdhe Meetings.—The Secretary an ncmnced that the Eessioual meetings for 1881 would bo held June 13, July 11, August 8, September 5, October 3, and November 7.

BOARD OF GOVERNORS.

The regular meeting of tho Board of. Governors took place this morning in the Grammar School building, there being present -.-The Mayor (ill the chair), and Messrs T. Peacock, E. Hesketh, J. A. Tole, aud the Key. C. M. Nelson.

Dr. PurcTias' Charges. The Chairman announced that Mr Darga ullo hofoio leaving Auckland had given, in notice of motion which he had desired him by written authority to move. The proposition was as follows !-" That the resolution of the Hoard rejecting the report ot the Committee in ro the Purchaa enquiry bo revoked and that the report of the Committee be adopted. The Committee report referred to was the following : -" The opinion of the Committee is that a copy of tke charges of Dr Purchas against masters of the Grammar School and the papers connected therewith be scut to the Minister of Educa tion, and that he bo respectfully requested to cause an inquiry to be made into them, as the Board of Governors deem it inexpedient that fcuch an inquiry should oo made by themselves or other persons locally resident." Ho was indisposed to move such a reso lution, and had told Mr Dargaville so. Perhaps, therefore, some other member would take it up. Mr Hcaketh then produced a written authority from Mr Dargaville to move the resolution, which ho accordingly did.J Ibe Key Mr Nelson thought if this par ticular mutter were to be referred to the Minister of Education that tho whole of the charges connected with it should be gone into. Dr Purchas' accusations, it seemed to him, were but a portion of a number of charges, and it was better, therefore, that they should be taken together inttead of by instalments.

Mr Peacock remarked tbat theso par ticular charges of DrPurcbas might, ln\the lirst place, be referred to the Minister, and that ufterwards if it be found necessary to widen the ground of the investigatiou, it could cosily be done. Mr Ilcsketh said that ho was not pre pared to join, in any request to the GoTcrnmcnt to take the erjquiry out of their own hands, for, in his opinion, the duty clearly devolved upon themselves. His reasons were : firstly, that the charges liad been nmde againist two 01 the Hoard's Eervnnts and that therefore it wns its (the principal's) ;dnty to investigate them ; secondly, that the Act vested in the Hoard the whole control and management of the School, includiug the appointment and dismissal of masterc, and therefore he was jiutilied in saying that the law imposed upon them a duty of conducting this enquiry; his third reason was that as tkero charges involved nothing moie than simple matters ol fact, and not ques tion* of constitution or principle, they could ensily be enquired into, ami should nnt con sequently be delayed ; while he might urge as a fourth reason that many yea's ago an enquiry had been held similar to that now under con*i<lcratiou. Mr Hewketh pro ceeded to dilate upon the points which he had r.iiscd, aud in the course of his remarks ho naid that creu if the members were con vinced that the Board was divided into two pa'tior, one of which was Jillcd with hos tility ugninnt the present head master, aud the other imbued with a strong sympathy for him, yet that they t-hould not even then ulirink from their duty in conducting the en quiry, He would sooner see them place their resignations in (ho hands of the Government than do so.

Mr Tole sympathised with the opinions expressed by Mr Hcsketh, and tho reasons which impelled him to vote in tho matt< r were similar to those which he had just ad vanced. IJo considered that the Board was exhibiting a false delicacy in trying to get the (.'overnment to perform actions which were strictly Iheir own. The public were calling out for a full and open enquiry, and he was opposed to any shrinking back from tho coiubc of duty which l»y clearly before them. Iv order that imputations of inefli ciency or misconduct might not bo allowed to rest for nn indefinite period upon any of their oilicers, he was desirous that they chould he investigated with the leatt possi ble delay, and their truth or falsity made manifest.

Mr I'cacock said that with a view of having the inquiry made as quickly us pos sible, ho would vote against t'lc rescission of the motion. It was unfair to the masters who were inculpated thnt charges should be allowed to hang over their heads for any lengthened term. Besides the reluctance of the Board to undertake the investigation, it might be accepted as a confession of the existence of prejudices, which shouid not be pennittcd to disturb tho actions, or in tcifcro with tho duties of any public body. The Key. C. M. Nelson declared his in tention to vote for the rescission of the motion, in order to bo consistent in his action on the matter. He deprecated, how ever, most strongly anything which might be taken to imply that the members of the Hoard had not the fullest confidence iv each other.

The Chairman observed that his opinions, with regard to the course to be pursued, had undergone some change in consequence ot the Head Master's demand that mi inquiry should be made into the general question of his management of the School. Previously tho charges had bsen specific, and ho had, therefore, advocated their investigation by the Board, but the limits of the inquiry hail so widened that he was in tavour of tho whole matter now being referred to the Go vernment. The Board had already virtually pronounced judgment against Mr Macrae by passing tbe resolution which Mr Fentou moved some time ago, and it would there fore be futile for it to traverse ground which had just been gono over. He would there fore be prepared to move—in case Mr Dar gaville's resolution were adopted—" That the Minister of Education be respectfully requested to cause an inquiry to be made into the management of the Institution during the Headmastership of Mr Macrae, but that the charges made against Mr Ander son by Dr. Purchus be dealt with by the Board."

Mr Hcsketh said that it there was an in clination on the Board's part to refer the enquiry to some one else he thought it should reserve to itself the right of nominat ing )the gentleinou who should conduct the enquiry, so that one might be obtained in whom they had full confidence. It had occurred to him that Mr Justice Richmond was just such a gentleman. His impartia lity was generally admitted and there could be no question as to kia ability for the task

After some further disenssion, Mr Darga ville's motion was put aud negatived on the voices.

The Ecv. G. M. Nelson, in pursuance of previous notice, then moved—"That in , | cs^e the investigation of the charges pre i ferred by the Rev. A. G Purchas has to be proceeded with by this Board, the previous . resolution that the consideration be in Com i mittee of the wholo be rescinded, and that i such inquiry be public." The motion was seconded by Mr Hcsketb, i aud passed without dissent. . It was then agreed, on the motion of i Mr Hcsketh, that the Board at its rising should adjourn till Friday at four o'clock, and that Ur Purchas and the Head and Classical Masters should be requested to attend the adjourned meeting. BUILDING SITE. i A report was received of the suitability, ,or otherwise of the various allotments . which had beeu either offered or recom mended as uitcs for tho proposed boarding establishment. i The Chairman was of opinion that pressure ought to bo brought to bear upon tho Government and the Domain Board to grant a site in the Domain, and even if they would only consent to a eito being let advantage might be taken of it. Tho present College might eventually be purchased for the purposes of tho Girls' High School when a new and I handsome College ana Boardiug establish ment could be erected on one of the Domain allotments which it would undoubtedly grace. The Hon. Mr Rolleston would be in town in a few days, and as Chairman of the Board of Education, it would be hisduty to again draw tho Minister's attention to the crowded state of the Girls' High School. It was agreed to inform Messrs Somerfield and Newman that tho sites which they had offered were declined by the Board. auditor's report. The auditor's report having been read, it was resolved to press for tho recovery of the arrears due to tho Board. A sum charged in error to certain tenants was written oft". ANNUAL REPORT. Tho annual report prepared iv accordance with the Act for transmission to the Minister for Education was read, aud upon the motion of Mr Peacock, adopted. FENCING. The janitor and drill-master wrote advising the purchase of some apparatus in order that he rnipht instruct the boys of the Grammar School in fencing and single stick exercise. It was decided that the janitor should be directed to submit a report in detail of the exercises through which he at present pnts the boys, th« consideration of his letter being in the meantime deferred. GLOUCESTER HOUSB. It was agreed that Gloucester House should be included amongst the properties to be opposed for lease by auction, a sub committee being appointed to fix the : reserves.

CABLEGRAMS.

[REUTKK'S TELJtURAMS,

European.

ANOTHER AQUATIC CONTEST,

LONDON, February 15. There is every probability of a match being made for tVMlnce Rosn to row either Trickett or Layio-k for £1000 a-sidc, on the Thames. MORE TROUBLE IN AFGHANISTAN. Considerable flensation has been created by tho announcement that Ayoub Khan has again declared war against Abdul Kali man, Amir of Kabul. THE DISTURBANCE IN EASTERN EUROPE. The relations between Greece and Turkey arc strained, to tho utmost, and war it xt garded as imminent. GENERAL ROBERTS ON THE ARMY. General Roberta has been entertained at a banquet in the Guildhall. lliero was a brilliantand distinguished company present In responding to the toast of hia health, General Roberts spoko at some length upon the organisation of tho British army, which he said was in many respects defective. Its great fault, he said, was that it was ab surdly small, and a more manly stamp of soldier was required. They wanted men. The boy-soldiers that had been drafted into the army were a failure

THE NEW SOUTH WALES BUDGET LONDON, February 15.

Tho New South Wales budget figures have been well received, and have strength ened the value of the debentures ot the colony.

AUSTRALIAN.

Arrest of New Caledonia Escapees.

BhISBANE, this day. Five escapees from New Caledonia have landed on Stradbrooke Island, Motton Bay, in a nude state, and nearly starving. Their immediate arrest has been ordered by tho authorities. ARRIVAL OF SUEZ MAIL. MELBOURNE, Tuesday. Arrived : P. and 0. Company's steamship Brindisi, with the inward Suez mail. THE WALKING CONTEST. Owing to a misunderstanding, Swan (ol New Zealand) and Baker have retired from the tix days' walking contest which is now proceeding.

THE STEAMER TAUPO.

ATTEMPT TO TOW OFF A FAILURE,

(ISY TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

TAURANGA, this day. Ah intended, an attempt was made to raise the "Taupo" with yesterday's tide, and this morning the "Waitaki" and "Glen clg" tried unsuccessfully to tow her off. She is evidently caught on tho rocks amid ships, ns she swings from both stem and stern.

BOAT ACCIDENT AT RUSSELL.

(BY TKLEGRAFH, OWN CORRESPONDENT.) RUSSELL, this day. MR. EDWARD STEPHENSON MISS ING. Mr. H. Lane has just reported that while coming over from Kerikcri ho saw Mr. Edward Stephenson's boat capsize and sink. He immediately made for the spot, but could lincl nothing of Mr. Edward Stephenson except his hat and coat which ho had on when he passed Mr. Lane, so that it shows he must have taken off his coat whilst in the water. The harbour master with a whale boat has gone out to search. Hopes are entertained that he may be using the oars as floats, and may fetch his island Moturu.

SPORTING INTELLIGENCE.

THE DUNEDIN RACES.-TRAINING

JSUTKS,

(BY TELEGRAPH, OWN CORKESPOHDENT.)

DUNEDIN, this day. Le Loup and Tilania were scratched yea terday afternoon tor all engagements. Adamant is scratched for all engage ments. fir Modred met with an accident this morning. When going at full speed he fell over two of Taggarfß greyhounds, and knocked two teeth out. He was walked off the course, and it is not known whether he is seriously injured or not. 6t04 is now offered against him. On Dit is second favourite.

Latest betting on the Cup :—4 to 1, On Dit; 6to 1, Randwlck ; 7 to 1, Sylvanus ; 9 to 1, Volunteer ; 100 to 10, Fishhook ; 100 to 9, The Governor ; 100 to 5, Lady Emma, Volunteer, Randwick, Morphcua, Hunt ingdon, On Dit, fatator, Luna, Agent, and Governor appeared on tho course thii morning. When the horses were being taken out of train something etaited Katator.who fell off the platform on to some stones, injuring himself slightly.

THE ALBION BUNS DOWN A SCHOONER.

All Hands Saved.

The b.s. Albion arrived shortly before ten o'clock this morning with the Australian cricketerF. She reports having collided with and suuk the topsail schooner Isabella Pratt, off Port Charles, at 4.20 a.m. to-day. All hands were saved. The Isabella Pratt left this port in ballast yesterday for Tairua, where she was to have been loaded with timber for Oarnaru. She was commanded by Captain Cross. Captain Garrard ot the steamer Albion uiates that at the time of the collision bis steamer was on tho port tack and making towards Port Charles about N.N.W. Saw nothing of the schooner because ot the smoke which was blowing over her until she was clobo under the bow of the steamer, ilia eDgines were immediately stopped aud everything possible done to prevent a collision, but without avail. Within four minutes the schooner was run down and cut in two, sinking Immediately. Tha crew were taken on board and a sub« scription raised for them which reached the sum of £20. Tho damage sustained by the Albion consists in having three iron plates broken on her starboard side,makioga large hole about 1J feet above the water-line. This had to be stuffed up with bedding and other like material to prevent the water coming in. Her jibboom was also carried away. He further states that the chief officer was on the wa'ch at four o'clock, and had just placed the watch and sten that the lights were burning brightly when the collision occurred, and maintains that no light was shown by the schooner although the larep was observed to be in its place after the vessel V7as struck.

Captaiu Cross, of the schooner Isabella Pratt, makes a statement as follows :—We left Auckland at 5,30 p.m. yesterday after noon, and rounded the Watchman at 12 with a splendid breeze. The wind after wards hauled round to tho south-east, making it a head wind for us. We were beating to windward and towards Port Charles, the watch having juet been set, and I went below to prick out the chart. While doing so I heard my mate calling lo the man at the wheel to "keep her away," and shouting to the steamer to "look where sho was going." That was just about twenty minutes past four this morn ing. We were almost immediately struck about the foreripging. Our fore-stay got over tho steamer's jibboom and held us up for a while, when we (five men besides my* self) clambered on board. We thensawtnat we lmd had a very narrow escape, for the schooner was actually cut in two, and the jibboom of the steamer breaking off. The vessel sank shout four minutes after sho struck. Captain Cross denies the statement that his lamps were not burning, and states that with the exception ot a few minutes occupied in pricking out, the chart was on dock the whole of the night, lie (Captain Cross) is a considerable loser by the unfortnnate accident, having £150 in the vessel, on which he had no insurance. The Isabella Pratt was quite a new vessel, and was remarked as one of tho nicest looking traders we have.

The Isabella Pratt was owned by Messrs Hassel and Son, of Otago, and is believed to be insured in the National for £1000.

Captain Cross has been seven years in the Isabella Pratt, and waa accounted one of the most careful, sober, and reliable masters on the coast. His vessel was a picture of cleanliness, and all masters who have been spoken to on the subject say that Captain Cross was most particular with his lights, and was very unlikely to have been neglectful in the matter on the pre cnt occa sion. Great sympathy is felt for Captain Cross nt his misfortune. A preliminary enquiry was held at the Custom-house at two o'clock to-day.

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR TUESDAY. FEBRUARY 22.



TOT" INK&& IJALI, HAVK KEMOVED FROM SHORTLAND-STKEET TO TEMPOKAKY PKEMISES IN FOKT STREET, OPPOSITE COCnEANK AND SON'S AUCTIOK MART, AND WILL CONTINUE THEIR CHEAP SALE FOR A FEW WEEKS LONGER, TO CLEAR SURPLUS STOCK. \ ] THEY WILL REMAIN IN FORT-STREET J DURING THE RE-BUILDING OF TKICIK WAEE- . BODSE IK SHOBTLAND-STREET. -jWfURTH SHOKE AND WAIWEBA < •*■* royal mail coach. Time Table:— Leave Flagstaff Hotal, North Shore, wery Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, on arrival of the 9 a.m. Boat from Auckland, Calling at tho Lake, Lucas' Crook, Dairy Flat, Wade, and Orewa. Leave Walwera Hotel evory Tubs day Thuiwday. and Saturday, at 8.30 a,in., for the North Shore. JAMBS LORD,) > Proprietors. JAMK3DODD.J *



Special Advertisements. XUST RECEIVED, AMERICAN LAWN-SPRINKLERS, With Plated Arms. Also, LAWN EDGE-CUTTERS, Quito Now. E. P 0 It T E R & C 0., Queen and High streets. QTOCK-TAKIim I-? A KGAINS In preparation for Stook-takinf?, WILLIAM RATTKAYhas] REDUCED THE PRICES OF HIS LAItOE AND AVeLL-ASSOUTHD STOCK OF CUMMER /COSTUME?. wrANTLBS, AND J^IUiINKUY, In ordor to olToot a cloaranco. COSTUMES at 128 8d UKDUOED to to M OOSTDMKS.tIO.6d Reduckd , 0 15a COSTUMES at 25s Kbduokd to 19a m COSTUMES at 30s Reduced to 25a COSTUMES at 33j Reduced to 28a C 4 COSTUMES at 45s Rkduokd to 3"a Gd MANTLES and MILLINKUY aro Roduoed In siinilur proportions, WILLIAM JOATTRAY'S Costume, Mantle, Millinery, & General Dhapbry Establishment, BW ZEALAND HOUSE, 66, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND. ¥EWO O D S -*JKW QOODSI A. LINABURY & CO. Aro Now Showing tholr NEW SPRING AND SUMMER GOODS. Wo hold tho Largest and Bost Stock of CO3TUMKS, MILLINERY FANCY GOODS, DRKS3 GOODS FLOWKRS, FEATHERS, &C, Sc. Speoial Lino of Plain Drcsa Silks, only 3a lid por yard; worthss6d. 5,000 Straw Hats, all now shapes. A Largo Stock of Ladioa' and Children's Under clothing. Dress and Mancle-making Jon tho promises Costumes madß in 21 hours'notice. A. LI N A B~U It V & CO. 204 AND 206. QUKBN-STRKET ANNUAL SALE WILL COMMENCE ON MONDAY, 20TH inst. THE GOOD 3 WILL BE OFFKRBD AT r(OST phlCEl FOR A PEW WEEKS ONLY! In Okder to Clear Heavy Stocks X |~IOSGRAVK & £JO., Importers of DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, queen street. Auckland. N. B. —No Goods will hi entered'durttte the SaU. l 1 TTVRESS HOODS. WANTED KNOWN: Q.OOD -JJSEFUL J)RKS3 ]\^ATKRIALS 1 ABE BEISG SOLD AT HALF PRICE. RUSHBROOK & BRIDGMAN'S. ; Is Cd Materials foe 9d. Wo havo bought a largo JOB LOT of the above, and are giving our Cuetomors the benefit. : FANCY DRESS MATERIAL ! In Great Variety. ; J3-AT A HEAVY REDUCTION'S* off usual prices to Cubar Out During Tjie Season, A Fresh Lot of good chkap twked 1 good cukap twkkd | for Boys' Wear (WJUST To IIAND.TB* 5% Discount (Is in tho £) allowed off a'l CASH Purchases of 20s and Upwards. T3USHBROOK & T3RIDGMAN, DRAPERS & CLOTHIERS : [OppOßito tho Army and Navy Hotel], Upper Queen-street, Auckland CIROWDS assembled last Saturday Even- J ing to inspect the "Greatest Novelty of the Age," exhibited at the City Hall A i cade, consisting of Patent Umbrellas with Movable Covers, so constructed that they can be removed from the frame or replaced in a few seconds ; frames superior to old style; the covers Dovei and economical. First introduced to the Auck land public by GARLICK & CRANWKLL. ANOTHIC 1 NOVELTY is the "Hartz Moun tain Rug," first seen on this side of the world at the Sydney Exhibition. The under signed were so struck with the handsome appearance. b?autif ul finish, and durable con struction of these Rugs that they at once sent for a large shipment, wh'ch are now finding ready sate. They are suitable fcr Tonrißts, Carriage Kugs, Golddiggers, and Travellers by land and sea, as the warmth and comfort imparted surpass all other woollen Rugs. Only obtainable at the City Hall Arcade, GARLICK & CRANWELL, Proprietors, Qrt-IVCH GRKY SHKETINU (unusually IO" hoavy and wide); First-clasa quality; a large quantity just opened; will be sold at Is (k to clear quickly. GARLICK & CRANWELL. CHILDREN S Two ButtotfKid Gloves Ladies' Kid-Stitched Baok (sound), Is 6d,'per pair Boys' Jersey Suits (with cans), 13s fid Men's White Shirts, a lino at 5? lid, worth 7a 6d Black Silk and Chenille Fringe, 2s 6d (very good) GARLICK & CRANWKLL. BLACK SILKS at Cooperative Prices. We study to soil the Cheapest Slack Silfes in Town, commencing at 2a "1 up to 11s 6d. Our 4a fid quality commando a ready sale—splendid value. GARLICK & CRANWELL. END OF SEASON, Clearing ont of Rem nants. A quantity of Remnants are cleared off every Friday and Saturday, at Cheap Rates, by GARLICK & ORANWELL. REMNANTS of Drcsa Goods and Trimmings RKMNANT3 of Printa and Sateens REMNANTS of Ribbona and Embroidery REMNANTS of Sheeting and Klannel RKMNANTB of Tweeds and Moleskin REMNANTS of Damask and Cretonnes REMNANT DAYS, Friday and Saturday at the CITY BALL ARCADE. ARUCK & CRANWELL TQRAFERY AND £jLOTHING AT CO-OPERATIVE CASH ! PRICES, PURE ffiSH UYSTJCM j URK tASH OYSTEM i AT THE piTY TTALL AUCADE, J Quebn-Street, Auckland. l GARLICK & CRANWELL.



Special Advertisements. JUST J3 EUEIVED, Ladies' and Girls FINK CASHMKRE JERSEYS. BOYS' JKRSKY SUITS. TAM O'SHANTKR HATS. JKRSSY COLLARS. COUDS AND TASSELS, for Dro3ses. motuku hubdard cloaks. Also in Stock, a very larqk assortment OF Ladies' and Ciiildben's TJNDKKCLOTHING AND BABY LINEN. iyr il n c & riiu. oyce (JURKN-8T RIC XT. I