SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER }^J^Mornl°ng,S.29 BUNSKT.-Thls ICvoning,6i 7 BUNRISB.-To-nwrow W»ln£'F«,,. „ MOON'S AGB.-Firat Quartor, 27th, 1 U a.m.

ARRIVALS.

LAST HVKNNQ. ArgTlO, 8.5., Johnson, from Whangarel

TO-DAY, •Fa Annn fl s.. Corey. from tho South »2mf Thormon,koton. Keano, from Hoklanga

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVENING. Glonolg, 8.8., Crawford, for Tauranga Wellington. s.s.. Farqnhar. for Russell Speedwell, ketch. Watts. forßusaoil Opoti-i, B0h„ Foster, for Whangaroa TO-DAY. India, barque, Bewicke. for Tongatabu

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

VaSTSt -ouffi porta - To Anau TarSlIS South-Wanaka, Tuosdoy

IMPORTS.

Pni-Tfl Aran, from Melbourne—l-1 boxes and i_ nackaues ten, 280 packages and 1180 mats 15stones, 6baispopper, 1 oaae tobacco SO pack __s sundries. From Dunedin-lShhds, 15 S_Tels. 12hhde flour, lOhhds alo. 611 packages sundries. From Lyttelton-GO bags bags flour. 40 sacks bran. 28 enoks oats, 5 Baois oatmoal, 12 sacks beans, -l crates blsoults, « paokages sundries. From Wellington--^!) tooxeß candleo. 9 longths pipe. 10 boxes tin, 73 oases oastor oil, 10 casos alas?. DO lengths pipe, 80 packages sundries. From Napifr-3 packages sundries. From Gisborno-313 sheep, 92 sacks ioed, 4 oases sundries.

EXPORTS.

Per John Knox for Newcastle — 10 casos whisky, 83 kegs butter, 19,000 feet sawn rough timber. 30,000 feet sawn dressed timber.

Per India for Tongatabu-15 caseß wine,l box and 10 quarter tierces tobacoo, 35 bags rice, 12 eases geneva, 19 mats sugar, 6 boxes and 20 ouea kerosene, 2 casos fruit, 21 cases potted flßh. 40 saoks potatoes, 10 tins and 8 saoks flour, 10 tins blsoult. 8 packages sundries. For Samoa -71 bales, 4 parcels.

Inwards COiSTWBrc.-Janet, from Whan- Barol Heads, with 800 bushels lima; Pukapuki, from Mahurangi; Josophlno, from Kaipara, With 85 tonß machinery.

Outwards Coabtwisb.—Janet, for Whan- Sarel; Pukapuka, from Puhoi; Gem, for 'gunguru.

The barque John Knox cleared at the Cus toms for Newcastle to-day.

Tho s.s. Rotorua la expected (o srrlvo from Sydney late this ovoning or cany to-morrow morning.

Tho Gorman schooner Christlno arrived a' Hoklanga from this port on tho 12th Inat.

Tho sohooner Flestwing left Hoklanga. for Lyttelton on Maroh 10.

Tho topsail sohooner Gael was loading timber at Hoklanga for Oamaru whon tho Fanr-y Thornton left.

The steamship Arizona has recently made the passage between New York and Quoenßtownin 7 days 7hrs 23mins.

The new topsail schoonor built by Messrs Henderson and Bpraggon(at their yardo.Custom House-street West), to the order ot Mr V. B, Stone, will bo launched at 8 30 o'olook to-mor row morning,

The barque Gobarfoidh has ontorod out ot tho Customs tor Sydney. She is loading timber tor that port.

Tho ketoh Fanny Thornton left Hoklanga on March 12th, and had fair wcathor until sighting Capo Maria, when experienced a hoavy gale and hove to for four days. Thence to port, light N.E. and easterly winds and fine weather. The Fanny brings a load of timber, a portion Of which is to bo discharged at the Tamaki.

The S.s. Argyle arrived from Whangarel last evening with M 0 sacks coal, 63 sacks gum, 160 cases fruit. 3 head cattle, 30 cases eggs, 1 boxes poultry, i tons sundries, and the following pas sengers :—Misses MoLellan, McGregor, Camp bell (2), MoKonzle. Homson, Smith, Huggins, Cooke, Mosdamcs Bain, Campbell. Street, Harvey, Roy J. P. Hewlot. Captain MoKenzlo, Messrs Malavey, Warnock, D. McDonald, Woods, Williams, White, Turnic. Hosiie, Osbourne, Eraser, Wahua, Cork. Templar, MoKlnnon, Duggans, McUtod, Smith, Stevens, Cope, Taylor, N. MoPhee. Campbell; Harvey Ml, G. MoPhee, Hassell, Mun. Mo Kay, Hord, McDonald, MoKenzlo, Southariand (2), D. MoLeod, Tucker. A. Mcdonald, Bhora, Weaver, Rust, E. Carter, Jan., Jackson,

ARRIVAL OF THE TE ANAU.

The b.p. To Anau loft Sandrldgo en the Bth Inst., at5,15p.m.; arrived at.Bluff on the 13tb, at 6 a.m.; Danedln, on the litb; Lyttelton, 16th; Wellington, 18th; Napier. 19th; Gisborne, 2(1! h; sailed from Gisborne on the 20th, at 6 a.m., «nd arrived In Auckland at 1.15 p.m. today. The weather throughout was fine, but very thlok between Fort Chalmers and Wollingtou. Pas- Bengers: Saloon—Mr Rothsohild, MifS West wood, Mi3'.i Devlin, Miss Asher. Mesßrs Holland (2), Mr and Mrs Nathelskl and Daughter, Mrs Keßtell, Mr. Mrs. and Miss Aoland. Mlas Frlppe. Mr Ellis, Mr Thompson, Mr and Mrs Oxley and child, Mr Wilsoa, Mr Hordes Mr Stewart, Mr Mr and Mrs Money, Mr and Miss Hny c. Messrs Murray.Pryov.Piercß.Giiljrd, Mr and Mrs Hau oook.MrsHlgglns.MrFulton.lvfr Chapman, Arch deacon and Mrs Hales, Mr Maophsrson.Mr and Mrs Garrett, Mr Anderson Urquhart. Mr Cler non, Mr and Mrs Wells, Mlas Sheean, Miss Kills, Capt. Kills. Mr MoKaig. Mr Gardnor, Mr Laohman, Mr Morrißon, Mr Heron, Mr Fraser, Mr Orr Roßkruge, Mr Murray, Miss Fulton. Mr Smith, Mr Williams, Mr Evans, Mr Jifferd Mr Cave, Mr Williams, Mr Bell, Mr Blow, Mies Harrop, Mr Napier and San, Mr Brogden, Mr Dunbar. Mr Mackay. Mr Brown, Mrs Burnard, Mr Common, Mr Wostern, Mr Lewis. Mr ljutohinore, Mrs Lstta, and 30 steerage. Fro.n Melbourne—Saloon: Miss Purcbos and Misses Matheson (2) and servant, Mr Dubbers, Mr Blair, _r Mrs Benn, Capt. and Mrs shepherd and infant. Bteerago: Mi's Kelly and family (I), Messrs Greig and Caradus. We are indebted to Mr Birch, purser, for press fllos, reports, ate.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

DEPARTURES. Macgregor, s.s.. Amodoo, for Waltara Wanaka, s.s., Holmes.'for the Sauth

The Northern C#s s.s..Mao|(rogor left for Waltara at 2 p.m. yesterday with 30 tons sundries, 1 horse.and the following pnssenSßrs: —Misses M. MoCullogh, Charmock, Mr and Mrs Hall and family (5), Messrs J. Sims, W.Hill, W. Sims, and three others.

The Union Co.'s steamor Wanaka left at 10 a,m, to-day for the South.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Wellington, Monday. Arrived: Opawa, „Bhlp, Mothers, 88 days from London; Yon Blppen, barque, from Auokland. Lyttblton, Monday.

Arrived: Mataura, ship, Greenßtreet. 02 days bom London: Ways of Life, from Kaipara. Bailed: Loch Kerr, barque, for Oamarn.

Timaku, Monday. Arrived: Young Dlok, from Hobart; Camp- Ble Glen, bar qua, from New York, 91 days out, PORT CnAMiKRB, Monday. Arrived! Otago, ship, from Glasgow; sailed Deoember 0. Sailed: Thomas and Henry, brig, tor Kaipara; Oamaru, ship, for Rangoon.

Mail Notice.

MAILS WILL CLOSE AS UNDER.—

THIS DAT. For Whangarel Heads. Walpu. Whangarel, Kamo. and Mangapai, per Argylo. at i p.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, etc., por To Anau, at 6 p.m. Wednesday, 22nd instant. For Coromandol, por Coromandel. at 11.30 a.m. For Thames, per Knterprli>e, at 6.30 p.m. For Whangarel Heads. Whangarel, and Aus tralian Colonies, por Rotorua, at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 3.30 p.ro. Thursday. 23rd instant. For Walwera, To Kapa, Craigloburn, and Warkworth, por Robo Casey, at 10 o.m. For Giflborno, Napier. Southern ports, Austra lian Colonies, per To Anau, at 11 a m. For Woitaro, Sec. per Macgregor, at 11 a.m. For Tauranga, Ohlnemutu, and Opotikl, per Glenelg, at 4 p.m.

Monday, 27th instant. For Tonga and Samoa, per Myit o, at 4 p.m.

Tuesday, 86th instant. Per s.s. City of Sydney as follows :— For Sondwioh Islands, United States of America. Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.m. For money orders registered letters, ana newspapers, at 11.30 a.m. Late letters bearing an extra fee of sixpence. In addition to the postage;' will be received by the Mail Agent on board tho steamer up to tho time of Bailing. , ~ _ . This mall will be dno In London, on Mon day, May 8,1882.

8. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-offlee, Auokland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

MAiton 21, 1832.

Theatre Royal-Robson's Refined Entertain ment, 8 p.m.

St. Thomas's MlSßlon Churoh-Booial Re union, 7.30 p.m.

Drill Shed—Volunteers' Monthly Inspection, 7.30 p.m.

Arohhlll Licensing Kleotlon-^awton West schoolroom. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mount Albert—Laying Foundation Stone Of New Wesleyan Church; tea meeting, 6 p.m.

Death.

CRONIN.-On March 81st, 1882, Bt Otahuhu. Mary Margaret Phllomena, the daughter of Bartholomew and Mary Jane Cronin, Ran dolph-street. Newton, aged one year and three months. The funeral will take plaoo to-morrow at 339 p.m. Friends please acoopt this invita tion,

Marriage.

TRANK-ITITZaERAIiD.-On February 21st, 1882. at St John the Baptist Chapel, Parneli, by the Voiy .Key. Father Fynes, Christian Trano to Mary Fitzgerald, oldest daughter of Patrick Fitzgerald, Koyal Artillery. Bengal, Bast India.

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

TUESDAY, MARCH 21, 1882.

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

The cable message published yesterday announcing a resolution passed by tbe United States Congress providing for the quicker despatch of the Australian mails across the American Continent is a good sign. That it will make any very material difference in the time of delivery we do not anticipate. The " Herald's " statement this morning that " the run across the Continent oould be shortened by at least four or five days "is of course ridiculous. The distance is 3,366 miles, and the daily express train accomplishes it In 6i days, Eonio time sgo great indifference vas shewn with respect to the transport of the mails from New York to San Francisco, eight days being crdinarily occupied in tho journey; but through the representations of Mr Creighton the Department at Wash ington was interested in the matter, and undertook te curtail the time to about six days, a promise that has been faithfully carried out. A special train in one instance was despatched to overtake the regnlar train which had left just before the arrival of tho mails. We apprehend that the resolution 'of Congress means nothing more than a ratification of what the Department is al ready doing ; it shows, however, a friendly disposition towards the service, and is so far an agreeable change from the indifference which has usually pervaded the American Legislature in relation to this line. A short time ago, Sir Henry Parkes cabled that although he entertained very little hope of a reduction in the wool duties, he was more sanguine of securing a subsidy for the mail service. Whether Congress will advance from its present step to the more decided one of sharing with the colonies the burden which they now sus tain remains to be seen. We believe it will not. A very strong party in the legis lature is opposed to every kind of subsidy, and the special claims of Australasia could not bo opened ' without provoking a deluge of applications for assist ance to other lines. If, however, Ameri can monetary assistance were obtained, the joint countries would be placed fn a position to offer a larger subsidy, and thereby secure faster steamers, insist upon the omission of tbe deviation to Honolulu, and bo shorten the time of delivery very considerably. In an exhaustive report upon the mail service forwarded to his Government by Mr Consul Griffin last year, and published in the " Consular Reports" for July, the representative of tho American Government at Auckland discussed the dangers that menace tho service and threaten its extinction at the expiration of the present contract on the 15th of November, Ibß3. He especially in die-tod the competition of the Eastern ser vices and the demand of a section of the colonists to sink the line in a large subsidy for a direct line of steamers to England, Mr Griffin observes; "The steamers of the Orient and P. and 0. lines are very powerful boats, built for sixteen knots, and do their utmost to quicken their speed. The San Fran cisco boats are only 11 knots. The line .could be improved by putting on foster steamers, and by shortening the schedule of the time of the Pacific railway across tho continent. By referring to the,chart it will be seen that the route could be still further shortened four or five days by avoiding the port of Honolulu, Hawaiian Is]ands. The abandonment of the Pacific mail steamship service would materlallyinjurethetrade and commerce between the United States and Aiistralasia." Since this was written, the Postal Department at Washington has shortened the overland journey, and the resolution now adopted by Congress will give the measures taken in that direc tion permanence and authority. We must look for further sayings in time to the despatch of the mails by jfcue fastest steamers crossing the Atlantic, and to quickening the transit across the Pacific. By these means, we believe tbo time could be reduced to 32 days to Auckland and 37 to Sydney, making the service the fastest procurable for both colonies.

"In the year 1879 the population of New Zealand gained 18,723 persona through the excess of immigrants over emigrants. Com paring this with the total gain to the Australasian Colonies during the same year, we find that New Zealand has secured more than one-third of the addition. The figures given in the Victorian Tearihook are >.— Net gain to the whole of the Australasian Colonies during 1879 by excess of immigra tion over emigration, 55,304. As the total arriving from the United Kingdom during the year was 42,178, the balance probably came from America, China, and other j countries.

The Dunedin " Herald " complains that: —"Given ammo at Coromandel, Buller River, Inangahup, Te Aroha—tho moro barbarously unpronounceable the name the better—with a few telegraphic reports of fabulous yields, and straightway there is a rush for shares and equally fabnlpus pre miums. Meanwhile our own auriferous lodes and alluvial deposits are neglected by investors and by brokers."

■The four-handed hand-ball match was played yesterday afternoon iv Mr Gleesou's court, between Hogan and Gleeson on one side, and Murphy and Eyre on the other. Tbo attendance was very large, and tho betting active. The betting was for a time in favour of Murphy's party, but after a close contest Hogau's side proved victorious. The game excited much iuterest, and specta tors were satisfied with what they bad seen. Should Hogan stay in Auckland for auy reasonable time, he will stand an excellent chance ot retaining the Champion Cup,

A match was played ia the Cricket Ground, on Saturday, oetween the Victoria and Eden, which resulted in a victory for the* former. Ihe following aro the scores: Victoria Ist and 2nd innings.—A. Hold ship, 1-0; F. Ohlson, 7-3; VV. Hoklship, 0-1; A. Bees, 5-12; C. Brighton, 2-2; C. Laßoche, 7-4; H. Ashton, 2-10; T. Car lylc, 0-2 ; Laird, 2-2; Dymock, 10; extras, 44 : total?, 32-40. _den : White, 4-0; Baker, 0-5; Lerwcll, 0 0; Robeits, 00; Drum, 0-6; May, 0-3; McKinley, 0-0 ; G. Woller, 00; Braithwaite, 00 ; Lovatt, 0-0; Lovatt, 0-2: extras, 1-1: totals, 5-18,

The interest evinced nt the polling for the election of Licensing Commissioners at Ponsonbv yesterday was not very strong, and it is estimated that only about 100 ratepayers voted. There woro about one thousand names marked oif on the roll as entitled to vote, so that it would appear that the residents arc not fully alive to the privileges conferred upon them by tho new Licensing Act. Shortly after six o'clock, Mr Cotter, substitute Returning Officer, announced that the following gentlemen had been elected :—Messrs J. tl. Field, 75 ; John Ssvalcs, 74 ; A.Bntrdmau, 58; T. T. Masetiold, 55 ;G. W. Owop, 50. The numbers polled by the other candidates are as follow ; -Messrs F. Quick, 49; W. Thorne, 47 ; I). F. Kvans, 44; T. S. Evans, 36; C. Macindoe, 23; H. Lewisson, 14.

Our report of the proceedings at the City Assessmout Court yesterday did not cover the whole sitting, inasmuch as the adjourn ment did not take place until 4.30 p.m. The business that was undertaken after our report closed was as follows:- J. Bylc, baker, valuation reduced from £95 to £90 ; Holloway, drapar, valuation reduced from £150 to £130; Captain Elliott, Upper Union-atrcot, valuation reduced in one caso from £15 to £8, and in another from £24 to £15. Mr Graham argued tho appellant's caso. Mr P. Herapath objected to bciog held liable for the rates on two city endowments which he had loused from the Corporation, and sub-leased to s, Mr Enoch Salt. The fact that this person had left tho country Bhould not result iv the res ponsibility for payment devolving upon himself, seeing that Salt had beeu accepted by the Council as a tcnaut. The judge, howovcr, thinking otherwise, disallowed the objection.

Parneli is at last to havo tbe benefit of a Water-supply. Proposals have been made by Messrs Scccombe to supply tbe district from their brewery wells, aud the engineers of the Board have reported in favour of the sshome. It has been decided by tho local Borough Council to raise a loan of £14,000 for fifty years, and £S,OOO of this sum will be devoted to the moro effective drainage of tho di* trict, while the remainder will be ex pended on the works necessary in connec tion with the projected water supply. A rate of 9d in the £ has bcon levied to meet tho charges for interest. The Borough Council of Parneli communicated with the City Council some time ago asking on what terms the city water oupply would be ex tended to their district, but receiving no definite information on the Bubject, they opened negotiations with Messrs Scccombe, and these now appear to bo in a fair way towards completion.

Hogan, tho man who won tho Handball Champion Cup on Satutday from Sweeney, was some years ago the champion of the South of Ireland, aud after coming to this colony was selected to play with .Murphy, when chailcngos wero sent to Sydney and Oamaru for a matck for £100 a-side. Sweeney, tho local man, who held the cup for eleven months and three wooks, learut the game in Auckland, and it is very creditable to his skill that he held it lor such a tongth of time. There appears to have been an impression amongst tho local handball players that Hogan and Murphy, the "crack"l," were debarred from com peting for the cup, and indeed the latter has declined to play for it on thess grounds. The fact of Hogan taking pait in a contest shows that this idea was erroneous, and wo learn that it is no improbability that tho present holdor of the trophy will be im mediately challcDged by Murphy.

Mr Orlando Mnzzoleni has mado arrange ments with Mr Jas. Maco, tho champion of the world, to appear ior a short season of six nights, commencing on Thursday next, March 23, Mr Mace will appear in a series of Roman, Grecian, and mythological statuesque illustrations, which in the Old World have been received with the greatest favour by the public and the press, These illustrations, besides being pleasing to the eye, serve lo show the amount of perfection the human frame can be brought to by healtby exercise and a temperate life. _Mr Mace will, during the performance, exhibit his trophies, describing at the samo time how they were earned, a history which can not fail to bo highly ml cresting. As an additional attraction, the Australian Specialty Company has been engaced, and light, sparkliug comedies will form a por tion of each evening's programme.

At settler, named Patrick Martin, of Otahuhu, was fined 10s and costs this morning at tho Police Court, 'iho man pleaded not guilty. He hud only drunk live pints of beer, and a drop or so of whisky and could not be drunk ; in fact, Paddy MartiD, the "terror of Otahuhu," as he was wrongly termed, was a thoroughly sober man. He was seldom drunk more than once a week, The constable deposed that " Paddy " was so drome that he could not get away from a post which 'he called his "old sub stantial friend." It was shewn, in evidence of the state of a drunken man, that Paddy, after clinging eomo time to the post, commenced to hammer it because it would not speak. He had a lighted candle in one baud, and was beating tbe .unoffending timber with the other until his knuckles bled. Paddy wished to call the waiter from the Auckland Hotel to show that he fur nished prisoner with the candle, and tbat he was not drunk. The waiter,|[Armstrong, was sent for, and did his best to shield his customer. He g&ve him the candle, but Martin, instead of going upstairs to bod, took the wrong turning, went out-doors, and violently assaulted the post,

The cricket match between the West End and North Short second elevens was closely Contested, and was won with three runs to spare by the repiesentatives of the western suburb. West End went in first, and having put together 29, their opponents went to the wickets,' and were disposed of for tho unusually small score of 2fj. West End,—Talbot, c Pitts, 0; Mears, b H. Wynyard, 3; Baker, b G. Wynyard, 0; Brown, bG. Wynyard, 9; Wood", b G. Wynyard, 4; Berry, b G. Wynyard, 3; Hanna, bH. Wynyard, 0; laxod, o Niccol, 0 ; Lewis, not out, 6; Waters, c Sims, 0; Courtayne, stumped, 2 ; extras, 2 : total, 29. North Shore United C.C.-G. Wyn yard, b Hanna, 3; J. Sibbin, run out, 0 ; H. Wynyard, b Mcars, 7; Sims, b Hanna, 2; T. Sibbin, b Hanna, 4; Johnstone, c I ; ewis, 0; Gill, b Hanna, 3; Bartfey, b Hanna, 5; Niccol, not out, 1; Reid, b Hanna, 0; Pitts, c Talbot, 0; extra, 1: total, 26.

An amusing occurrence—certainly not on the programme—happsnod at Mr Robson's entertainment at the Parneli Hall last even ing. The elocutionist, noticing that there were two dogs in the hall, in the politest manner possible, requested their owners to remove them. One of the animals, a well conducted one, evidently, _ judging "with .canjne intuitiventss that hia preseuce was objectionable, made himself scarce with more alacrity than grace. The other dog declined to follow suit, and sat with a deter mined self-reliant air beneath his master's chair, and neither the suaviter in modoia tho form of endearing names, nor tlpc fortitcr in re in the shape of kicks and the liberal application of a walking stick could disr lodge him, One of the ushers came for ward valiantly, but the canine made a strong display of force, and remained un disturbed. All this time Mr Robson was waiting to commence the entertainment, At lasf a person in the audience, with the air of a man who has made some great re ap! ve,advauced towards his dogship'a citadel, and heedless of sundry growls feized the offending canine by the collar, A " hotno et-canis tug-of-war" enpued, which eventually terminated in the ingnomtnious defeat of the dog, followed by summary expulsion into outer darknes',

There is a provision ,in tho city by-laws against intrusions on the pavement by persons in charge of bicycles and wheel barrows, and auy person committing a breach thereof within the city boundaries will bo liable to a fine.

The members of the congregation of St. Thomas's Mission Church will hold a social gathering this evening in tho ad joining school-room. A tea will be provided by the ladies at half-past six o'clock, and subsequently a social circle will be formed, and addresses, recitations, music, and song will animate the proceedings.

At the old English Country Fair to be held during Easter week at the North Shore, a prize of £5 has been promised for the most appropriate and best got up show on the ground. As all shows, games, &c, are to be admitted free to the fair, we shonld think this liberal prizo will draw forth a largo number of competitors. Entries must be made at once to the secre tary.

The fast little steamer Ruby has just re ceived a thorough overhaul at the hands of Messrs Eraser and Tinno, a new boiler of an entirely new pattern, and engine having been supplied, while the saloon has been considerably enlarged and improved. The vessel will make her trial trip at 3 o'clock on Friday afternoon. Mr vv. T. Briggs, the owner, intends running her between the Thames aud Paeroa.

Tho election of a Licensing Committee at Otahuhu resulted in the return of the fol lowing gentlemen—Messrs C. A. Bowden, 42 ;S. Luke, 41 jJ. Gordon, 3G; Thomas Ktringor, 35; John Fairburn, 33. The fol lowing wero tho numbers polled by tho un successful candidates :—W. O. Bush, 2S ; W. Absolum, 24; A. M. Donald, 24; R. Robertson, 18; a, M, Shcphetd, 13.

Tho residents of Vernon-streot, Frse man's Bay, have prepared a petitition to the City Council, asking that the drainage of that thoroughfaro be undertaken, the levels fixed, and the roadway formed, kerbed, and channelled, All the owners of proporty in the street in question huvo attached their signatures to tho document, and as the im provements referred to aro urgently re quired, the subject will no doubt receive duo attention when brought before the Council,

We hare been requested to draw atten tion to the corcmony ot laying the founda tion stone of tho now Wesleyan Church at Mount Albert this evening. The proceed ings will commence at 4,30 p.m., aud a largo attendance is expected. Tho trustees have made arrangements for special buses to leave theUaiou Bank corner ut 4 o'clock, 4.30, 5, and 6 p.m., so that friends who aro unable to bo prescut at the stone-layiug will have an opportunity of attending tho tea.mcetiugand social demonstration, which will be held ut tbe district public hall, commencing at 0.30.

Messrs J. Scott, of tho Ponsonby Rowing Club, aud H. P. Harrison, boatbuilder, of tho Breakwater Road, have arranged to contest a dingy race for £5 n-sido, to be rowod in the harbour at an early date. The course will be three miles, Harrison giving his opponent 100 yards. The cyeut is exciting some little interest in boating circles, for both men are looked upon as good oaismcu. Harrison has distinguished himself'^several times in aquatic competi tions iv the South, while Scott is ono of the Ponsonby "all comers" crew, and a strougly-bui(t powerful young fellow. Mo is a much younger man'than Harrison, but still the chances of winning are considered as pretty evon, both men baring plenty of backers.

"Fiat Justitia Ruat Cesium" comments adversely upon the practice which ho says prevails in tbo Railway Department of re placing Auckland meu with men from tho South. He remarks : I hear that instruc tions have cither bcon scut, or are about to be sent, for eight or ten gangers (I think they aro called) from tho southern pro vinces, to occupy billets on our Auckland line. Should this bo dono in justico to our employes ? Is there such a deurth of skilled labour iv our province that meu working on the line for years aro to bo sacked at a moment's notice on some paltry excuse, or clso passed over and totally ignore^, to make room for strangers, whoso chief recom mendation is having had the honour to work down South with a certain presont boss t

Many of our readers will remember tho little craft Good Templar, whiph was built iv Auckland several years ago. Sho was then a novelty inasmuch ag sho was con structed of iron, and was produced with the object of beating , a number of fust yachts of, which wo were then possessed. She took part in several inccs, but, although proving herself a fast boat, nover made any extraordinary display of hor sailing ability. Subsequently sho was purchased by a Well ington gentleman, who it would appear has latoly been effecting considerable altera tions in her, as will be seen from tho follow ing, which wo clip from a Wellington paper:—"Tho yacht Good Templar, now named the Sappho, has been greatly changed. All her gear has been reduced, and several alterations mado about her deck. She was out for a cruise lately at Wellington for the first time since the alterations have boon effected, and her owners aro remarkably well pleased with tbo manner lv which she" behaved."

Tho concert recently given by tho Pon sonby Rowing Club, in aid of the fund tor the purchase of a new boat, was a iinaucial success, and it was announced at a com mittee meeting that after all accounts had been paid, thero would bo a net profit of about £23. This ia most satisfactory, and reflects credit upon Messrs H. D. Morpetb, captain, and C. S. Oweu, secretary, and other gentlemen who took an active part in the management of the concert, Tho new boat has been ordered from Messrs Donnelly and Sullivan, of Sydney, and should arrive hero in time to compete at the Ponsonby Regatta on Easter Monday, She will cost about £50 or £GO, but it is confidently anticipated that the deficiency will be readily subscribed by tbo rosidents in the district.

A musical and literary entertainment will be held in the Newton East school on Wednesday evening, in aid of the school library, when a varied and instructive pro gramme will be gone through. Amongst other items we notice instrumental duets violin and piano—readings from Shake speare, two songs by Mr Gradwell, and comic recitation.'. During the interval, scholarship, attendance, and good conduct certificates will be awarded; also, five pounds' worth of books, the gift of Mr Swanson, to Norman E. Button, who ob tained a district scholarship last December. This entertainment, considering its object, deserves to bs patronised. Mr Bindon, by means of these concerts, started the library, and he has now oidered nearly £20 worth of books. Parents, however, have not as yet shown as much mtorrstin the master as they might, and so holp a pood cause, and enable children to read for themselves about important subjects and events which can only be alluded to in class; and about which many children would otherwise re main In ignorance.

The business of the Auckland Assess ment Court was concluded at an adjourned sitting in the Resident Magistrate's Court this morning. It is a singular foot that, notwithstanding tho number of appeals received against tho valuations, only a very small number of the objectors put in an appearance, and the cases ate consequently struck oil tbe list. Probably ratepayers are not aware that they must appear in person in support of their objections, but such is nevertheless tho case. One dis satisfied appellant entered tbe Court to-day, and took the Judge and clerk to task for not having refreshed his memory regarding the date of the sitting of the Court, but he was calmjy reminded that the schedule giving a list pt tbe Court's' places and hours of sitting, had been fully advertised in the daily papers. This was not sufficient to soothe his per turbed feelings, and he endeavoured in vain to convince his hearers that it was tbe duty of tho newspapers or someone to keep bim posted up on the subject. Ratepayers should bear in mind the fact that it is use less to send in objections unless they appoar in support ol them at the Court.

A " Cynical Churchman's " Wonderings : —(1) I wonder from whom, and how, the authorities at Northcote got the idea of having a Harvest Festival on Ash Wednes day.- (2) I wonder when certain members oftho'c'ongregatlon and choir of St. Paul's will leave off the stupid habit of coming to church late, (3) I wonder whether ie is generally known tbat at an Anglican ser vice held not five miles from Lucas's Creek, they use Moody and Sankey's Hymns. (4) I wonder how it came to pass that at the big church near the gaol, with its very churchy chpir-master, they came to sing, according to local in last night's STAR, a festival anthem in Lent. (5) I wonder whether it is true that all the girls of St. Mary's were recently practising, "Tell Him I Love Him Still" ; but don't how. (6) I wonder whether the individual who helps Mr Warren to play the organ at St Matthew's does the rest of the " blowing" lor that parish. (7) Lasf, but not least; I wonder whether the speeches to be made at St. Thomas's tea-meeting to-night will be as choice and polite in character and diction as those mado in the school-room not long ago.

Tho Crown lands sale, held this morning, iealised a sum of £3,915 13s, being a very appreciable advance upon the upset price. Thero was keen competition for the Tuakau sections.

Owners of cattle in the district of Hender son should take notice that Mr Patrick Montgomery has been appointed pound keeper of that district by the Waitemata County Council, and is authorised to receive all fees under the Act. Straying animals had better stay at home in future.

" Anti-Bazaar " sends a letter in which he identities a prophecy in Daniel 11—39 with bazaars, and then interprets the term as meaning trading churches and chapels, In terpretation of prophecy is, proverbially, a stupid and profitless occupation, and we are not prepared to bore our readers with " Anti-Bazaar's " conjectures as to whether Daniel's "strongholds" refer to.churches or bank-safes.

Last evening the St. Sepulchre's Mutual Improvement Society held its second meet ing for this session. The debate, "Is the British Government doing its utmost for Ireland ?" was warmly supported by Mes9rs Burton and Shirley, the negative being taken by Messrs Ussher and Gentles. At the conclusion tho voting was unanimous in aiding with the affirmative.

One of the mo9t pitiable cases in the acci dent ward of the Hospital is that of an old man who some months ago was severely burnt about the cheßt and hands through the conflagration of his wharo, Siuce his admission, two ot the fingers of the right hand have dropped off, while on the left hand two of the injured digits have per formed the freak of growing together for a considerable distance above tho lower joints. A more ropulsiva sight can scarcely be imagined.

The Ponsonby Mutual Improvement Society held their meeting last evening, Mr J. Waraoclc read an essay on " Idle ncs'," am 1 was followed by the Rev. Mr Davis, who gave an interesting account of a "Trip to Norfolk Island," including in Ills address, a description of the island, the people, the mission, &c„ The Society will resume its meeting on the usual night (Thursday) the meeting being held on the 30 th.

Messrs. O'Brien, O'Connor, and Freeman, tho Australian crack pedestrians, arrived by the Tc Anau this afternoon from the South, where they have been engeged in various sprint-races and walking matches. Arran gements have already been madefor a scries of foot races of various descriptions on the Domain Ci icketground next Saturday week, April Ist, when our local peds will have an opportunity of comparing their powers in this direction with those of the visitors. A meeting af the Athletic Club will be held to-monow, for the purpose of taking some steps to assist the new arrivals.

The olection of the Arch Hill Licensing Committee is taking place to-day. The candidates are : — Mesws Radcliffe, C. Bailey, Burke, Chapman, Birnio, Jones, Fauldor, and Downey. Messrs Burke, Chapman, Fauldcr, and Jones are on the Licensed Victuallers' ticket,

The complimentary bonefit tendered to Mr Delias last night at the Theatre Royal consisted of the interesting comedy, "AU that Glitters is not Gold," and the amusing sketch of "Tho Young Widow." The Plum family, Jasper, Stephen, and Fred, were sustained by Messrs Welsh, Elliot, and Gerald, Mr Dillon appeared as JSlr Arthur, and the lively and facetious Toby Twinkle was admirably impersonated by Mr Lachlan McGowan. The feminine characters were represented by Mrs Mc- Gowan, Miss Adellc, and Miss Tanner. The audience was moderate, and the pieces evidently enjoyed by all who ware pre sent.

Notwithstanding tho frequent land sales recently, thero still appears to be a steady demand for suburban and rural sections, and this was clearly illustrated at the Crown lands sale to-day. Lots in Waikato, Manukau, Waipa, Raglan, Thames, and Wuitemata, were offered by the Commis sioner, aud the attendance being largo, tboro was strong competition, In gome instances, sections brought four times the amount of tbe upset pricp, whilp in many others tho increase on the upset price was over 100 per cent. It is also very satisfactory that more than one-half of the allotments submitted wero disposed of. and it may be mentioned that the majority of those were bought by farmers and settlers tor the extension of their holdings, and not by speculators. A full list of prices and purchase money appears in another column,

Tho weekly meeting of St. James's Mutual Improvement Association was held last even ing and was very largely attended, tho vestry room being crowded to excess. Tho fair sex was exceedingly well represented. After the despatch of some private business throe original talos were read, Mr Walter Dignan contributing one entitled " A Chip of Granite; or Talisman," Mr W. Cooper giving another entitled " Harold Leth bridge," and Mr J. M, Geddis furnishing the third, which bore the title of "A Matri monial Conspiracy." Ihey wero well re ceived and critically reviewed. Next Mon day's meeting will be devoted to the delivery of a scries of speeches on " The Learned Professions,"

Subscriptions for the Ponsonby Regatta are coming in well, and the committee aro in hopes of being able to hold out more in ducement to competitors in the various events, in the shape of prizes, than iv any previous year, A meeting of committee will be held shortly to decide upon the valuo of the respective awards in each race. We hope tbo club will tee the advisability ot fixing the entry night at an early date. Even a week boforo the Regatta would not be too sood, for it may be observed that until the public know the competing boats comparatively little interest is taken in the various events. This matter is an im portant one, and well worthy of considera tion.

Speaking of the insurance rates current in New Zealand, the chairman of the meet ing held in Dunedin to increase the capital of the National Insurance Company said : —"The directors had found it a still more pressing consideration that the nature of .he home business had changed much dur ing the last four or five yeara, Thero was increased competition—in Australasia there wore thirty companies doing business against twelve in 1873. The consequence was the tariff was broken-thero was no tariff except at one place in New Zealand. He might almost call the competition reckless —in some cases ho believed a por centage was not quoted, but a lump sura given for the whole risk. The competition was, to say tbe least,- dangerous The increased com petition was brought about by the estab lishment of three new local campsnies, and by the influx of British companies, who had enormous wealth and the world for a field of operation?, and who pushed themselves in these colonies by having the ablest employes and influential and able boards of local directors. He had figures showing the lessening of revenue through the increased competition. The local influence, which used to give a little help, had declined altogether—sentiment disappeared whon the pocket was touched, and it was the company quoting lowest that got the business. He could not put that plainer than by saying that in Dunedin, wlicro (19,000 out of the 100,000 shares in the National were held, where was the headquarters and all its paraphernalia, with tbe board of directors, no branch bad done worse, though they had had no excep tional ill-luck as regards losses. That showed the necessity of extension." '

We are again indebted to Mr H. H. Haytcr, the accomplished Statist of Vic toria, for a copy of tho Victorian Year- Book, The issue of 1880-81 is in some res pects an improvement on those of previous years, thoroughly complete and exhaustive as thesp have been. Now and interesting features have been nddpd, and fresh com parisons instituted, which render the book at once more valuable and attractive, The romance of' satieties might almost b-j realised with a chronicler such as Mr Hayter, who presents his'facts and deduc tions in such a form as not only claims the attention, but stimulates the imagination. Then, both as regards facts and'deduc tions, he is rigidly just. In all the com parisons instituted between Victoria and the other Australasian colonies, he gives the results honestly and fairly — nothing extenuating which ishows to , the discredit of his own colony, nor,,setting down aught in malice or jealousy against the other colonies of the group. His labours are thus valu able to the whole of the British colonies of Australasia; and so strictly impartial is he, that in dealing with New Zealand statistic?, iwe could almost believe him to be Statist of Ibis colony, instead of Victoria, In the hands of a designing manipulator, there is nothing so deceptive as figures, and there fore accuracy and absence of bias arc in valuable in one in Mr Hayter's position. The book now before us 'is larger than any ot its predecessors, and besides the usual tabular and other appendices and a very lull and useful index, has an excellent map of Victoria, with the population of the different counties marked in figures. We shall from time to time make extracts of those statistical items which are of interest to readers here,

The successful sale of the Otago runs has incited the local press to a new out break, in which Otago is described as re taining its character of being the good milch cow of the colony, which can always be relied on, and a demand is made for the construction of the Central Otago Railway. The " Canterbury Press," criticising these demands, naively observes that since the great bulk of the interior land of Otago is admitted to be only sheep country, and has been leased as sheep country for a term of from three to ten years, there is manifestly no necessity for making any more railways there, at all events until these leases fall in. Wool is by no means a profitable freight for railway traffic,while with excellent roads such as are found all over Otago, the " bloated squatters " can quite well put up with existing appliances tor many years to come. It will be contended, in fact, that if the resources of the interior of Otago were such as to justify the construction of rail ways, the Waste Lands Board would never have sold the runs oven for an increased rental of £70,000. What is more, it is not easy to see how reasoning like this is to be answered.

Sir Charles MacMahon, Mr Jack, and Mr Beniss of Melbourne, who came to New Zealand for the purpose of initiating active measures for the development of the petro leum area in the Poverty Bay district held by the Southern Cross Petroleum Company, Liniited,have given the Dunedin "Herald a most discouraging account of the fruits of their visit. The gentlemen named repre sented the Melbourne shareholders, who hold 35,000 of the 48,000 shares in the Com. pany, and it was their intention to make every effort to immediately develop the field with a view to transporting the paraffin butter to Melbourne for treatment in a manufactory to be established there for the purpose. No later than last month some of the shares on which 4s Id has been paid up were sold in Dunedin for fa's, and as high as 10s was obtained at one time for them in Melbourne. The gentlemen named, how ever, Btatcd that not only has the company no satisfactory title to the land, but the natives had asserted their rights by stop ping works. They moreover asserted, with regard to the prospects of the field, apart from the question of title, that unless the yielding capacity of the place should be very great, there is little prospect of the undertaking being a financial success. The ground is ninety miles from Gisborne, over very broken country, and eight miles from the' nearest point on the coast. The road to the coast presents almost insuperable diffi culties to the formation of a tramway. Thero is one and a-half miles of the bed of a creek to traverse, a mountain to either tunnel or pass rouud, and a four-chain gully and ten-chain river to bridge, while even tho flat portion of the road has three levels. When the coast is reached thero is no ancho rage for sailing ships, and the material, would have to be carried out a mile or a mile and a-half in whale-boats to be ship ped. The establishment of a factory on the spot ia also out of the question, as it would be impossible to land and transport inland the ponderous machinery necessary.

SCINTILLATIONS.

"Be brief, for tt Is with words as with sunbeams; tho more they are condensed the deeper they burn, '—Soutuby.

Egyptian Affairs,—Mummies. A " Serious " Situation,—A mute's, Ratired from, the "Service,"—A broken teacup.

An Epitaph on an Angler,—Here's bait for worms.

An Irish Reptile left by St. Patrick.— The Erin Co-bra 1

The amateur cornet player ought to receive blow for blow.

The real Sovereign of England.—The "Majesty of the Law."

"I gave him a good start," as the ghost said when he had frightened the little boy. " Downy " way of putting it—Men are geese, women are ducks, the birds of a feather flock together. Oni/vHalf a"Bcti_.."—Lady (adding up sum— "J and 2 are 9; 2 and 6—Ob, Hodge ! what is 2 and 6?' Hodge—" Arf a-crown, miss."

Mr Reynolds's impersonation of the But terman at Hobart Town wan not a success, the character being one far from suited to his abilities.

The personality in Great Britain of the late Earl of Caithness has been sworn at under £36,000, and tbat of Mr Jardioc, of Laurick Castle, under £1,371,000. One hundred and fifty thousand copies of "Helen's Babies" have already been printed and sold, and the demand for it continues as lively as ever,

An Irish advertisement reads as follows : "Lost, on Saturday last, but the loser does not know where, an empty sack wf th a cheese in it. On the sack the letters P. G. are marked, but so completely worn out as not to bo legible."

" Well, my little man," raid a lriend of tho family to a youngster attending echool, "how do you get on in your class?" "First-rate. I'm next to the head." " Good 1" forking over a penny. " How mauyare therein your class?' "Two. Me and a little girl."

One of every three persons you meet in Victoria belongs to the Church of England, ono in every four is a Roman Catholic, one in about every six a Presbyterian, and one in eight a Methodist,

A farm of 224 acres in Berkshire, that was recently let at £230, is now lot at £6S. The tithe—Bs per acre—is now more than the rent.

Messrs J, C. Williamson and Lyons of "The Tourist" met accidentally the other day in Chriatchurcb, when some slurp words passed respecting tho right ot Lyons' Tourists, to play " Struck Oil," and Mr Williamson threatened legal proceedings.

The season tickets for the Christchurch Exhibition will be two guineas.

The Rev. Henry Bull's farewell sermon at Trinity Wesleyan Church, Hamilton, drew a large congregation. Mr Ponfold is elected Secretary of the Christchurch Jockey Club.

Mr J. B. Whyte, M. _. It., has received a telegram informing him that £250 towards Kaiapino bridge will be handed over when tho contract is finished.

Charles Turner, the tenor of the Monta gue-Turner Company, was, it is said, ten years ia the burnt cork business iv tho States before he got ashowin opera. Any one who has seen the artistic way in which he handles a tambourine in the " Bohemian Girl" can oasily believe it.

A suit has been announced against St. Paul's Presbyterian Churcb, for allowing a public performance iv an unlicensed build ing.

Says the Melbourne " Southern Cross " : —"It is plain that the anti-Christian members of the community resemble the peas in a child's tattle; they make a noise altogether out of proportion to their size."

Parliament meets about the end of May. The North Franklin election writ cannot be issued until alter the election of Speaker. The Bishop of Auckland has written a graceful noto commending to public notice Mr Robson's entertainment in the Theatre Royal to-night.

The foundation stone of the Wesleyan Church, Mount Albert, will be laid at 4.30 to-day. Soiree at night.' Tlie Rev. A. Penny, M.A., of the Mela nesian Mission, is expected in Auckland about the Ist of April. Sir G. M. O'Rorke, for the Speakerships and Mr Fulton, of Otago, for the Chain manship of Committees, will be the Govern munt nominations.

London "Punch" says :—"Mrs Langtry is of too solid a physique for any light skittish movement; her laugh not yet being nnder control, appears forced and painful; and her action is aa constrained and mechanical as that of on Eton sixth-form boy on speech day." A collision with cattle on the railway near Timavu threw three trucks off the line. No other damage. ' / '■.'

The tendor of Mr Jones, £96 10j, for So. 10 contract on Hamilton-Uhaupo road aud Mr Kennedy, £72 16s, for No. 11, have been accepted, Mrs Humpson's first revival service at Christchurch came oft on Sunday, and was crowded.

Statistics show that out of 4,057 marriages in tho middle districts ot England, not two per cent, were celebrated on Friday. It is clear that superstition stili exercises con siderable sway in minor mattersas well as in great ones.

The Rev. Mr Green intends to follow up his successful ascent of Mount Cook with a similar feat at Mount Earnslard, near Lake Wakatipu. - • The Rev. Mr Macfarlane, the Ntw Guinea missionary, stated at Dunedin tbat in 23 years' experience he bad never known a native chief to break his word—a point in which even some Europeans might pos sibly imitate them.

A gentleman, on getting a soda and brandy, was retiring from Spiers and Pand's refreshment bar.' " Recollect, sir," said the polite Miss Horn, "if you lose youf purse, you didn't'pull it out here." " We are going out with the tide," said a young man to a friend as he filed down the church aisle after a wedding. "In that case," said a lady in front, "you can afford to get off my train," And he did,

THE DROWNING OF CAP TAIN DOUGHTY.

(BY TELEGRAPH.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

DUNEDIN, Monday. The schooner Orpheus, timber-laden from the Thames, arrived on Sunday afternoon. She left the Thames on the 3rd instant, and had light variable winds down to Tolago Bay, on the 9th instant; thence fresh N.E. winds with thick weather. Passed Bank's Peninsula on the 12th. At midnight on the 13th instant, the wind being N.E.,.and the vessel steering S. W. by W., under double reefed mainsail, the master (William Doughty) came on deck to relieve the mate (Thomas Walsh), who. then went below. About ten minutes after the vessel jibbed, aud the mate coming on the deck saw the cook at the wheel and the master on the jibboom stowing the jib. The cook then sangout "A man overboard,-' The mate at once brought the vessel up to the wind and cruised about for several hours, but saw no sign of the master. He was sixty years of age, and resided at Newton, Auck land. He leaves a wife and five children to I mourn their loss.

PRESENTATION TO MR HER BERT.

Mr Thomas Herbert, being on the eve of severing his connection with the Union Sash and Door Company's factory, Mechanics Bay, a number of the old em ployed at the mill waited on him yesterday afternoon. Mr Kinsey, who acted as spokesman, then presented to Mr Herbert a handsome silver tea and coffee service, and read the following address :—" To Mr Thomas Herbert: Dear Sir, —We, em ployes at the Union Steam Saw, Moulding, Sash and Door Co., take this opportunity of expressiog our deep regret at your de parture from amongst us. We recognise, with all who have been privileged with your acquaintance, your pre-eminent abilities in your profession, as well as your general urbanity of manner and gentlemanly de meanour towards all with whom you have come in contact, representing with dignity your employers, and ensuring tho respect of the humblest in the factory. - We shall ever cherish towards you a bright spot in our memories, and desire, from our hearts, that your future may be happy and prosperous, feeling assured that your noble example, sterling integrity of character, and faithfulness, will not fail to be appreci ated." Here follow the signatures.

Mr Herbert, who was visibly affected, said tbat he had to return his most hearty thanks for the flattering and cordial ad dress just presented. He would ever re member that, while he had had their faith ful services in the past, ho could leave them without a single feeling to mar their re spect for one another. He could not for one moment disguise the fact that leaving the factory now was the bitterest day ot his life. He could have wished that the jour ney might have been together longer, but as this could not be he knew their best wishes would follow him, as he was sure his would ever be for their future success and happiness. He felt sure that the skill, tact and good judgment many of them j possessed, would lead them on to a successful future. In saying that the cstablishmeut has a high reputation for all the qualifications that make a name, he w*s not saying too much, and whatever might be the future, they could not fail to be remembered as humble factors in its pa>t successes. It would not be considered egotistical in him to say that he was speak ing to several who were unexceUed in their various professions, and from whom his successors in the management must learn much. He regretted that he bad not tho iaculty of expressing his thoughts freely, but he assured them he wished them well. In cenclusion he wished them health and prosperity. Cheers wero given for Mr Herbert and for Mr Froude, who is also leaving the company's employ. Mr Herbert left the company's employ to day, after a connection* extending over sixteen years.

WATER SUPPLY FOR PARNELL.

PROPOSALS BY MESSRS SECCOMBE.

Tub question of a water supply for Parneli was considered at an adjourned special meeting of the Parneli Borough Council last evening. There were present:—The Mayor (in the chair), Councillors Winks, Hood, Davies, Mulling, Barber, Clayton, Herbert, McKenzie. Messrs Hancock and Co. forwarded a letter stating their willing nets to supply the Borough w;tu water at the lowest reasonable cost, anc iking that an inspection of their brewery wells be made before any decision be arrived at. A re port on Messrs Seccombe's well, and its adaptability for supplying Parneli with water, was then read by Mr Boylan, Engi neer to the Board. The document stated that Messrs Boylan and Lundon had measured the quantity of water obtainable with the piesent pumping gear, and the average amount of water pumped up during the 48 hours was 3760 gallons per hour, or 90,000 gallons per diem, and in the 48 hours of pumping, the water in the well was lowered 46; but almost the whole of this lowering was accomplished iv the first 36 hours, the level of water in the well remaining nearly constant from the 36th to the 48th hour of pumping. This average was inclusive of the neceßaary storpages for oiling and cleansing. The wells cootinued much above the usual level, and the pumping gear was not sufficient to reduce it to auy extent. They considered that a minimum yield of 90,000 gallons might be obtained daily, and this quantity could be propor tionately increased with tetter pumping gear. The amountofwaterusedatpresentlu Auckland per head of population, including shipping and manufactoties, was estimated at under 25gaIIona daily. Messrs Boylan and London considered that for Parneli, where neither shipping nor manufactories would require water, a daily supply of 18 gallons per diem would be ample, or 66,600 gallons for tho present population of 3700. This would leave a surplus of 23,400 gallons daily tor the present population, even for the above mentioned minimum supply, or a sufficient quantity for 1300 more population or a total of 5000 inhabitants. Some of the members doubted whether the experiments made were sufficient to justify the Council in the assumption that the supply of water from the well would be sufficient! or the future requirements of Parneli.—Mr Boylan said that until more powerful gear was erected, he could not say definitely what the fall supply capacity of the well really was. Mr Seccombe would only be paid for the quantity of water which actually passed through the meter into tbe mains, and the reservoir which would be erected would hold three days' supply of water.—The Mayor said Mr Seccombe was prepared, 'if his proposals were adopted, to expend £500 or so in providing a better pump, and more powerful machinery.— Some discussion took place on the advisa bility of having a further test of the well made, and it was eventually agreed, on the motion of Qr. Herbert, seconded by Cr. Winks, "That the well be further tested with a view of ascertaining more definitely its full capacity, and that the sub-com mittee, who have charge of the matter, should wait upon Mr Seccombe." The cost of the proposed water supply was fixed at £6,000, and it was resolved, on the motion of the Mayor, seconded by Mr Winks, "That a special loan of £14,000 be raised for the purpose of providing a system of drainage, aud a water supply for the borough, and that the loan be in the follow ing proportion : -Drainage, £8,000; water, £6,000.— Tjie Mayor suggested that they should have a sinking fund of J <per cent., compound interest, which would clear off the loan in 49 years.—lt was agreed that the loan should be for a period of 50 years.— It was decided, on the motion of Cr. Mc- Kenzie, secoaded by Cr. Clayton, that a special rate of 9d in the £ (being 5d for the drainage, and 4d for the water) be levied for the purpose of meeting tbe cost of the loan and sinking fund; and it was stated in explanation that the rate would not cover the cost of supplying the ratepayers with water, but was only intended to defray the cost of the actual necessary works. It was resolved that the Town Clerk write to the Hon. F.; Whitaker, asking him if the Government had given effect to the promise that the name of Mr Robert Walker would bo placed on the list of members of the Domain Board. The meeting then terminated. ...

Tbo passengers by the P.M. s.s. Aus tralia, who have just been released from quarantine, have presented a petition to Mr Bropby, quarantine superintendent, in which fhey desire to represent that they did not receive good and ample provisions while at Moluihi, and also complaining that they were detained on the island for a longer time than was necessary,

CABLEGRAMS.

[Rkdter's Telecjbams.]

SUPPOSED FENIAN INCENDIARISM

LONDOh, March 20.

A store-shed at Albert Docks, Liverpool was destroyed by fire last night. The origin of the fire is at present unknown but it is believed to have been the work of Fenians, whose object was the plunder of the Volunteer Armoury, which stands in the vicinity of the Docks. la FROZEN MEAT, The steamer Protos ha? arrived from Melbourne, via Suez, with a cargo consist ing of 300 carcases of sheep aud 2 787 packages butter. The mutton is reported to be in fair condition, but the state of th« butter is rather doubtful. ' c THE AUSTRALIAN MAILS. WASHINGTON, March 20. Congress has adopted the Bill providing for the greater expedition in the overland transit of the Homeward and outward Australian mails via San Francisco. DISTURBANCES IN AFRICA. CAP_ TOWN, March 20. Intelligence is to hand from the Trans, vaal teporting that much disorder prevails in the south-west, owing to the relations between the Boers and the natives. ANOTHER IRONCLAD. LONDON, March 20. A new ironclad was launched to-day from Pembroke Dockyard. The ceremony was J performed by the Duke of Edinburgh, and the vessel was christened the Edin burgh. EXHIBITION AT THE HAGUE. AMSTERDAM, March 20. It is rumoured that an Exhibition will be held at the Hague next year, chiefly for the display of colonial exhibits. All European States have decided to ex hibit, and have appointed committees to carry out the representation at the Ex hibition.

AUSTRALIAN.

QUARANTINE CLOSED.

MELBOURNE, this day.

All tbe patients have been discharged from the Quarantine Station, and the quarantine has now closed.

TH_ SUBZ MAILS.

MELBOURNE, March 20.

Arrived, this evening: The P. and O, Co.'s steamship Clyde, with the mails whioh left London on February 10th.

OVERDUE VESSELS.

MELBOURNE, March 20.

Several vessels homeward-bound to Eng land from this port are now reported as considerably overdue.

A HANDSOME PRIZE.

MELBOURNE, March 20.

Mr Nathan Cohen, of Tamworth, New South Wales, has won the first prize (an eleven-roomed house) in Bagot's Private Estate Company, raised for the disposal of the property of the late Mr R. C. Bagot,

CITY ASSESSMENT COURT.- This Day.

(Before B, Maclean, Esq., Assessment Judge);

The Conrt for the hearing and determina tion of appeals againat the city valuations returned this morning in the Resident Magistrate's Court-house, Mr B. Maclean presiding, the Town Clerk representing tbo Corporation, and Mr H. G. Wade (City Valuator) appearing In person to sustain his aßee-tsments,—The following objections were dealt with ;— John Mills, no appear ance ; 326, Mclver, transferred to McKen zie, and reduced from £50 to £40; 251, Cornelius McManus, no appearance; 1,520, E. W. Morrison, reduced from £10 to £3; 1,525, E. W. Morrison, valuation sus tained; 697, David Nathan, no appear ance ; 1,450, David Nathan, transferred to James Burtt; 1,492, L. D. Nathan, no ap pearance ; 219, M. A. Neale, reduced from £45 to£4o ; 22 and 23, M. A. Neale, valua tion sustained; 339, Louis Henry Neumegen. The applicant requested a reduction from £60. Evidence was taken, and the valuation sustained. I,3os,Thomas Oram, transferred to Frederick Henry Ellesdon; 709, A. G. Pnrchas, reduced by £20, from £220 to £200; 1,149, Thomas Russell, no appearance; 1,213, Thomas Russell, no appearance; 1,523, Samuel Charles Streeter, no appearance; 1,524, Samuel Charles Streeter, no appearance ; 1,465, transferred from E. Scouller to Marsden; 116, Wm. Somerville, no appear ance ; 811, William de Thierry, no appear ance ; 40, Waller's Trustees transferred to Boylan ; 345, George Rhodes, reduced from £50 to £40.

This concluded the business, and the Court rose.

AUCKLAND PHILHAR MONIC SOCIETY.

Tbe quarterly sacred and secular concert at the Choral Hall was well patronised, and shewed unmistakeably that there is a growing interest in Professor Cailliau's musical classes. The ball was not full, but the audience was highly respectable and attentive. The upper part of the stage was tastefully decorated with ferns and ever greens, which gave liveliness and beauty to the scene. It must be remembered that the musicians and vocalists, are learners, and some allowance must be made for amateurs; still, taking the concert alto gether, it was, despite a few slight imper fections, a success, and highly creditable to Professor Cailliau as a musical in structor. Home of his pupils, espe cially the violinists, and several of the young ladies, evidenced a remarkable proficiency which could only result from steady and systematic training. We noticed generally a perceptible improve ment since the last concert. The members who took an active vocal part in last even ing's undertaking amounted to forty-four, viz, twenty-six females and eighteen males. The stringed instrumentalists numbered about twenty, among whom were the two daughters ot Professor Cailliau, Messrs Mc- Ginley, and Mr and Mrs Walker. The pro gramme was choice. The first part was de voted to sacred selections, opening with " La Reine dcs Flours " (Burgmann), by the orchestra, and "0, Salntaria" by the Society. In the latter piece we noticed an occasional discord. Mr G. E. Boyle, basso, sang with good effect the solo, "Xantura Ergo" (Piccolini), Mr Boyle is a fair singer, and possesses plenty of con fidence. Tbe solo and chorns, "The Lord is My Shepherd," music by Mr W. R. Walker, a member of the society, was well rendered, Miss Staunton singing the solo. This young lady has a powerful and attractive voice, but her habit of gazing upwards may. or may not be tho proper attitude to .assume. The composition did credit to the composer, who has caught the spirit of this, perhaps, the most poetical of all the- psalms of the poet of Israel, i In this trip, the voice of Miss Gribble was heard in full, effect, but perhaps more so in the beautiful "Rest in Peace,,' in which this young lady had an (opportunity of displaying her powers'as a contralto, and the advantages <of musical culture.. Wo believe tbat, in order to acquire right con ceptions in- the healthful art of singing, as in every other department of human study, a good head as well as a good ear is neces sary. Quick perceptions are necessary to acquire a comparatively perfect knowledge of music. Miss Gribble may be regarded as having inherited from nature a pleasing voice and ordinary good; ear to! begin with; but without the year's careful training which she i has received^ she could not have acquired that nicety of perception of sound which Bha bbs, and which enables a- connqisscur 'to. detect a false noto in the midst of a opm< plicated performance. ' A sacred duet, by Miss Staunton and Mr Boyle, was effective, and won deserved applause. The baritone solo " Remember" was carefully rendered by Mr Leedham. He was correct, kept good time, but his voice was scarcely equal in strength to give full effect to this solo. Mr'V. Longuet was eminently successful in his solo, "Si J'dtais Roi." He has a clear, ringing voice, and could hardly be termed an amateur. "On the , Sea," by the, choir, was one of the ' most finished things of the evening, The concert closed with "Good- Night" and the "National Anthem." The whole of the performance? gave satisfaction, and some of the pieces elicited great enthusiasm, We may state that Professor Cailliau would not permit repetition, in consequence of which pro'; hibitlon the concert' was brought to a close at 10 o'clock.

A Chicago girl on a Western tour gave, we are told, an Indian maiden a pair of hose. She was astonished to learn after wards that tho ungrateful damsel had cut off the leg parts, and was using the feet for corn-sacks,

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR. TUESDAY. MARCH 21.



npHS NEW JoOliiDiNG SOCIETY. INDUSTRIAL. AND PROVIDENT PERMA NENT BUILDING, LAND AND INVEST MENT SOCIETY OF AUOKLAND. CORNER 09 QUEEN-STREKT and VULOAN LANS. Allolasses are Invited to take up Investing Shares, payments weekly, interest remunera tive. LOANB granted on seourity of Freehold or leasehold Property for the purpose of Buyino, Building, Sec, In sums-of «20 to £5000, repay able—for every £100 artvanced-at the following scale, by weekly, monthly, or Quarterly instal mentai— . . Bepaymentß Por l Kepaymouts Per extending over Week, extending over Week, s. d. 8 yean -. 1510 7 years .. 8 3 i years 12 n 8 years _ 7 t 5 years 10 51 10 years - 0 8 SPECIAL FACILITIES aro given to Bor rowers for paying off part prinolnal money and reducing weeKly payment, or tho whole sum may be paid off at any time—the Society grant ing. LIUEIUL DISCOUNT. _____! ___?__ _____ JUST RECEIVED — Alfred Bibd's BAKING! FOWDKB, CUSTAM) POWDER, and Bl ano MANQE Powder. Custard Powder, for making Custards without eggs; choice and delicious. Blano Mtroge Powdor, for making the most delicious Blano Mange with little trouble and a trifling cost; to be obtained in the following flavours:—Vanilla Almond, Straw berry, Raspberry, Chooolato, Coffee, and Almond. Baking Powder for Broad, Pastry, Cakes, Plum Puddings, &o. Its offocts are sur prising, as it Imparts a lightness, wholesome ness, and sweetness that cannot ba otherwise rduced,— Testimonials t From Captain Sir L. MoCllntook, H.N., Franklin Expedition 4Arot!o Yacht Fox) Sept. 21. 1859; from the XmlgraUon Comudsslonerß, Westminster, Lon don, 8.W., Juno 0: from tho War Offloe liondon; a Certlfloate from the Admiralty London, Feb. S. Agent for Auckland: ROBERT REWj Grocer, Sea., Victoria-btre™;. ÜBTKIAN BKCNT WOOD ... „,, ..,.,, - Cane Chairs, Austrian _L«_q« **__»_■ Bentwood Oane Couches and 123, Quoen-Btrotit. j joU „ geßi Austrian Bentwood Cano Koclrlng Chairs. . ALNTJT DRAWINGS -. _~ ,„„,„.,. HOOM SUITES in T. „H. UUUH.rI. ai _. Tapestry, Rep, and Cre -123, Queen-street. tonnet Walnut Tables, Whnt noto and Canterbnrya. ' '"' »yfAHOGANY, CEDAR _ _- n /t n -« -Or_L Rimu.and Kauri Din , T. ft H. COOKE, juMoom Suites in Leather H4Qiiee_-fl_TOt. Haircloth, on _ Amerloan Cloth. ' TKON Half-Tester Bed- _■ _ — ----- A steads, Iron French Bod- T. ft H. COOKE, i ron stump Bed -123, Queen-street. g teada ' T ron Folding Chair Bedsteads, Iron Cots. P" ATENT Spring Roller Blinds, and Venetian m"Quro_i_»e_ Blinds, Gilt Cornices and ,** Frenoh-poUshed Cornice Poles " ARPETS, Bearthrugs, Linoleum, Floorcloth, 123; Queen-street Matting, Door Mats, Bath '^g,. ' Mats, in great variety. . T IBBBAL DISCOUNT to ~i*-tt rnnn J— Gash Purchasers, All M^_r_B____! B°olls Slivered free in town. U3, vmeen-Btree- catalogues poat free on appll -;■ -, cation. V i; , -. L ;, ~ , __ BDKOOM FURNITURE in Choice Mottled Kat_l k a-Qu^street ™ffi*gsffiffi«'*> ■■*!_»... ■



Special Advertisements TAST OF THE GREAT CLEARING.OUT..SALE OF SL GHTLY DAMAGED GOODB AT » T INABURY & rjO.'S. £250 WO rthot REMNANTS to be sold at HALF-PRICE, Wo have mado further Reductions on [tho Goneral Stook In order to cleat out a largo portion ot Goods SLIGHTLY DAMAGED. AN INSPECTION INVITED. A. LINABTJRY & CO, 201Iand|200, Queen St.



T I-QUOR TEA COMPANY, LONDON. Tho undorßigned has just received, per ROMAN Empire, a Large Consignment of tho above Company's rpEA ANI) yOLUMES. THE TEA possesses great pungency and power, and is fall flavoured. THE BOOKS aro Handsomely Bound and by Popular Authors. 2S 8D Per Lb 3S W. S. COLLINS, PAKN-liL, AUCKLAND, Sole Agent for New Zealand. Orders by post promptly attended to. and Goods delivered to all parts of Town or Suburbs. Terms Strictly cahh. Seeds i Sebdsi Seeds i W. J. Hit. * C 8: Havo Just Landed tholr- NEW SEASON'S OLOVKRB. whloh are of Very Superior Quality. White Clover, English and Dutch Red Clover. English and American Cowgrass, English and Amerloon Alsyke, Timothy, Trefoil, Rape Lucerne, Linseed, &a, &c„ &c Having purchased prior to the rise, enables them to offer tho above at wholesale rates. Inspection Invited. Also. Poverty Bay Ryo Grass, maohlne dressed a splendid sample Southern Rye Grass. Italian Rye Grass Cocksfoot, Prairie Grass, Poa Prostensis And all othor kinds ot Agricultural and Garden Seeds. BONEDUSTI BONEDUST At the City Council's desire, we have deter mined to clear out our present stook, and in order to do so qnlokly, we havo reduced the prices for cash. Our quotations are from £6 to £9. according to quantity and quality. In Stock : Bell's Celebrated J Inoh and Boneflour: Sydney 2 Star and 3 Star Bonedust and Boneflour; and a limited quantity ot Sop pot's local manufacture. We have also for Sale: 2 New Robey's 6 and 8 h.p. Engines and Thrashers Coulter's Drills Kearsley's Combined Reaper and Mowor Corneas' Patent H.P. Cbaif-outtor Also. Corbott Ss Peel's manufacture Double-furrow Ploughs, well worth Inspection Single furrow Ploughs, Horse Hoes Cultivators, Rollers and Clod-orushers Winnowers, Cheese Presses Cheesomakers, ChafT-cuttois (small) &C, &C &0. Also, Ferd and Seod Oats, Maize, Barley, Flour. bharps, Oatmeal, Chaff, Bran, Fowl Wheat, Sec, Sec, Sec Primt Samples of Picked Table Potatoes GUANO. Peruvian, OhlondorfTs, Dissolved Peruvian! Maldon Island, Huon Island, and other Che mical Manures. W. J. IT Rsr & C o ' " 101, QUEEN-STREET. Auokland.



THE LADIES OF AUCKLAND PROVINCE are requested to inspect the GRAND BHOW ot AUTUMN and WINrER GOODS m the Window of the CITY HALL AROADK, Queen-street. ON VIEW this GARLICK & CB AN WELL, Phopxistors. <_> /A U T U m h\ $ A/, X AND X^" GOODSV / NOW OPENING N UP. NOVKLTIE3 In Dress Goods NOVELTIBS in Dress Trimmings NOVELTIES In Millinery NOVELTIES in Jackets and Dolmacs NOVELTIBS in Cretonnes NEW HATS, BONNETS. FLOWERS^ NEW MBN'S AND BOYS' CLOTHING NEW BLA.NKETB, FLANNELS, &0. FUR AND SPRINU-TOP KID GLOVES. X«ARLICK AND CKANWELLy ?N. OITY HALL ARCADE, y^L *** \ QUEEN-BTREET, X'^O <P VV AUCKLAND. S^, X * /* WE NOW ALLOW ON ALL CASH PAYMENTS X PER CENT. DISCOUNT on Furniture O PJCR CENT. DISCOUNT on Carpets X PER OtfNT. DISCOUNT on Floor-olotha D PER CENT. DISCOUNT on Furnishing £ P*R CENT. DISCOUNT on Drapery [Goods O PKR CENT. DISCOUNT on Millinery t PKR OttNT. DISCOUNT on Clothing i O PER CBNT. DISCOUNT on all Purchases over One Pound, IN ANY DEPARTMENT AT THE CITY HALL ARCADE. ONLY ONE PRICeI CASH PRICE I EXTRA CABH DISCOUNT I GrARLICK & CRANWELL, CITY BALL DRAPERY AND FURNI3HING ARCADE, Queen-street, Auokland,



tf«Ktf«lfi«««tf««tf«tf«MMg_g««M«o4 00000000000000000000000000 WHHHHHiHHHE-iHeiIHHHHEHHHEHEHIriHfHHH oooooooooooooooooooooooqqq ooooooooo_oooooooooc5ti_!i30'0<s ££££&_j_H§HhHB!H!HHHHIHHE*H!*HhHtH 00000000000000000000000000 00000000000000000000000000 j^UTUMN. Jggfj j 50 CASES 50 The first portion ot tho NEW GOODS for this Season are now on view, amongst which are somo Maonifioent Lines of BOYB' AND YOUTHS' CHEAP SUITS. Parents and Guardians will find It advan tageous to make an Early Selection. Tho STOCK of MEN'S CLOTHING Is simply suporb, and tho Variety of HATS, HOSIERY, SHIRTS, BLANKETS, FLAN NELS, &c„ second to none in New Zealand. Auckland Branch: QUEEN-STREET, Opposite Theatre Royal ; And at Albert-street, Thames. J. FITZSIMONS, Manager, ooaaapaaapQaaßaaaaaaaaQpaa iili§lii§i-iiiilii.§llii§lli b^^_^__^^_^t___^_;_„_„^„l^ r^r^Wr^r^rHr^r^r^r^!^r^i^!^r^r^r~~~ _^_^r*_»_Fi_«b'_»brryl_<>b»_«r_' _»_»_^brl^_r_^_F - _^._r_~_': &A Wi AZiAnAk At AA&A £i Aft AA A& <*£* && && mnßrinrißin



Special Advertisements. rjIHOKNTON, SMITH AND FIRTH HAVE FOR SALE : '.• Crown " Flour, in sacks, 100's and 50's "Champion" „ „ .. ■• "Cantab" ~ ~ .. •■ Sharps Bran Fowl Wheat Wharf Mill, Auckland. QMITH AND ARNOLD, ARCHITECTS, OLD CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS. Smokers, whoso indulgence In tho weed Is ontinunus, should uso just such a cordial as DDOLPHO WOLF-'S fc CHI-DAM AROMATIO Bchwapi'S. for these palpable reasons: Tobacco drains tne salivary glanda and doranges the nervous organism. It is a powerful drug, that tells on tho Btrongeat constitution. It Inviteß dyspepsia, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, often 1 bringing on tremors, and its fumes Impair tho I vision. While this olixir may obviate these results, it will certainly brace tho system againßt ta pernicious elfoota .