SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER } ™!s%&jffi. er'nlng, 6.47 BtJNBIST.-ThlsKvonlag,6,lCr anvpiAV To-morrow Mor»ing» ww MOON'S AGK.-Ne" Moon, 20th, 11.54 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Wellington, as., Karquh'r/from Tanranga Oli nnlit 8.8.. Btephonson, from Kuaaell. O^tfkl'lohooner, Colling*, from Mercury Bay ThamOT, barquo, Williams, from Nowoastlo

DEPARTURES.

lABT EVBNINC* Argylc, ba. Crawford, tor, Whangwei.

TO-DAY. Antaree, barqne, Lowls, for London. Transit, Bchoinor. Kobo, for Barotonga

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

%&S£g*%t Southern ports - To A nau TaranakiS Sonth-Wanak^ '.Tuesday Rnsaoll, Whangiroaand Mongonul-Wouingion fc «?^SK o/ Wellington, Monday or wSund Whangarei Heads - Argyle Tnoßday and Friday Mangawdl-Hingal, Thwßday Seroiy Bay-Fingal, Monday

VESSELS EXPECTED.

Ci»y of Sydnoy, P.M.8.5., from Sydney. March

Pareora, ship, (Q.3.G.W.), from London; sailed HalofonTXtf.N.M.H.Urvm London; sailed Alortfebuqoe. (H.C.M.N.) from Liverpool, via nailed. November 7 Arabella.bMQuelF.K.Q.V.Uroin London: sailed A. T!°Btallkneoht, barque, from Now York Adamaft.KM.Ka»,fromLonc.on;l oad.0ad. Orient barane, from Liverpool, loading JSrSrWano. from London. l«wdtoa Cambria, barque, from London, loudiDg Kndaold, barnao, Tom N»w York MendoM, barqno. from Liverpool; >°«»nK Boralnaton, barque, trom London; Jan {J Soharciyl, buro.no, from new York isaJod Dec U Loveaprlng, barquo, from Nowooatlo Thames, barquo, from Sydnoj Annlo'Bnrr, burqnsntlno, from Now York Vision, brig, from Lj ttolfon AnnaboU, brig, from ,'Jyunoy BorcAliv, brlttantlne, from tho Islands Alb«rt tho Hood, britf, from Molbourno Caledonia, sobo^nor. frora Motimoa Aurora, brißantlno, from Newcastle Coronet, oohoonor, from tho Mauds Edith, aohooner, from Sava Kate Macgregoi', sohooner, from Dunealn Pirate. iohooDsr, from Huo)Uno Bell* Brandon, sohoonar, from tho Islands Poarl, kotoh, from Itorotonga

IMPORTS.

Por Thames from Newcastle-01 tons bone dust and 523 tons coal.

' iNWABBBOoABTWisic.-Opotlkl.from Meronry Bay, with 80,000 faot sawn timber -, Wangarei. from Wangarei, with 06 tons coal.

Odtwardb GoASTWisB.-Lizetto.for Thames; Magio, for Taiiua. The B.S. Rotorna will arrive from Sydnoy on Wednesday morning next The iohooner Krlemhlldaleft Whangarei for Auckland on Friday morning.

TUB barque Crownthorpe entered out at the Customs for Napier to-day.

The Te Anau from Melbourne via Southern ports, will probably arrive., here on Tuweday morning.

The barquo Aloostls loft Wellington for Auokland on Thursday last. She brings a quantity of cargo from London for this port.

The barque Dunoraig arrlyod at Lyttelton from Auckland on Thursday last.

The s.«. Wellington arrived from Tauranga at 610 a.in. to-day. Passengsrs: Mr and Mrs Wood. Mrs Maxwell. Misses Vereoe and Vogan, Rev. MoLennan, Messrs J. B. Whyte, M.H.n., Bißhop. Godfrey. Steele. W, A. Graham, Down ing, Uulntal, Maxwell. Vogan, Marley, Noblo, Mosa, Wood 12), Cameron, Roland, and two ■teorane.

The (Hsnelg's last trip to Russell was not a very pleaoaDt one. fche left Anokland on Monday night, and after experiencing some terrible weather put Into Whangarei on Tues day morning at 1 o olook. Left again at 6 a.m on Wednesday, and owing to contrary windß and high boo did not roach RubboU until 3 o'olook the Bame afternoon. Tha Glenelg loft Bussell at 2.15 p m.yestsrday.oilled at Whanga rurn. tfnd arrived in harbour at 6 a m. to-day. Passenuors-Mr and Mrs Wayte, Mrs Mason, Moasra Bardic, ECole. Wood, Lioyd, Btßham, Yorke. Cargo-36 saoks gum, 2 tons sundries.

THE BARQUE THAMES IN A HURRICANE.

The barque Thamos arrived from Sydney via Newcastle this afternoon. She has had some torrible weather during the passage, as may be fathered from the following raport. kindly furnished by Captain Williams:—Left New castle °n February 23rd, and for the flnt thirteen days out, until Muroh 7th, expert oncod light a!r« and oalma from the east. ward. From that time till the 13th, strong Wlndd from north and north-cam. On the 14th tha wind laoroased, and blew a regular hurricane. Itoommenoed to blow from the X, then baoksd into B ».. and again haul«d to U.S., from whenoe we had the worst Wtather. The barometer at 1 a in, was down to S8 86, and atdoonstoodatKl'lS. Durim? the gale we lost the lower maintopsall, the foio-top-gallant sail, and foretop-royals blew out of the gaskets, Uhlpped a very heavy sea which smashed the gig wUtte on the Bklds, before wearing tho ship, We also oirried away part of tho railing on the top-eallant-forooastla Jib, inartlngals-stay, flying jib-stay, and main top gallant-atay. From the 7th to the 12th tho rain foil oonatantly in torrents. On Thursday, the 18th, rounded the North Capo, the wind stIU blowing very strong until rounding, and thenoe down the coast light N. and K. winds. Passenger: Mrs Williams,

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

WuLtiNGTow, yesterday. Arrived: Clansman, from Kalpara.

Lyttklton, yesterday. Bailed: Bydenham, barquo, for London.

POBT CHALMEB9, this dayi Arrived: Himalaya, barquo (Culbort) from Uvorpool, 107 days oat: Otago, sUp, from Gits row. <J1 <\nja in\i.

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Star Offloo, Saturday. Messrs B. Tonka anil Co. sold the privileges Of tho Parmnre Races to bo hold on tho 25th Inst Mr J. Kmlth purchased tho refreshment booth for £25. The Ratog were kiookod down to Mr Loomb. of Panmufo. for Sli.

Mail Notice.

Mailh will Close is Ondeii.— This Day. For Tairua, per Magic, at i p.m. Monday, 20th Instant, For Tonga and Samoa, per India, at 11 a.m. For Waitara, &c, per Maegrogor, at 11 a.m. KoilCoromandol, per Coromandel, at 11.30 a.m. For Thames, vor Kotomahana, at 1.30 p.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, Wangaroa, and Mon- Ronui, par Wellington, at 1.30 p.m. For Tauranga, Ohlnemutu, and Opotlki, per Glenelg, at J.3(1 p.m. For Whitiangl, per Kingal, at 3 p.m. Tuesday. 21st instant For Taranakl and Southern ports, per Wanaka, at 8 a.m. For Walwera, Eawau, Omaha, and Matakana, per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Hokianga. per Howena, at 11 a.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, etc., per Te Anau, at t p.m Wednesday. 22nd instant. For Russell, Kawakawa, and Australian Colonies, per Rotorua, at 3 p.m. Tuesday, 28th Instant. Per b.b. City of Sydney as follows i— For Sandwioh Inlands, 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, and newspapers, at 11.80 a.m. Late lottors bearing an extra fee of sixpence. In addition to tho postage, will be received by the Mall Agent on board the Bteomer up to i the time of sailing. This mail will be due In London, on Mon- I day. May 8.1833. & B. Bias. Ohlot Postmaster. Chief Post-offloe. Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

Maboh 18, 1883. Theatre Roral—DaLlat's Speolalty Company: " Merchant of Vsnloe," 8 p.m. French Literary Club—M. Grange^ " The Life of a Parisian Workman," 7.50 p.m. Bemsera Social Hall—Robson's Recital, 8 pm. Licensing; Kleotion, Otahuhu, 9 a.m. to 0 p.m. Y.M.O.A.—Devotlosal, 7.30 p.m.

Birth.

RUNCIMiNr-lt Sunnyside, PonßOnby, on the 6th mat,, the wife of the Ray. D. W. Rtind man of a bod. WILLIAMBON.-0n the 13th Instant, at her residence Dock-street, Frtoman'a Bay. tbe wife of Charles Williamson of a daughter.

Death.

OAVANAGH.-On the 18th March, at her parents' residence, Karangahtpo Road, Kllza, daughter of Kdward and (jntherlno Cavanagh, plasterer, aged 2 years and 1 months. The funeral will loavo her latelresldonco to morrow, at 3 o'clock p.m. CRAYFORD.—On Maroh 17, at his parents' residence Epiom, of congestion of the brain, Frederick James Waltar, infant son of Wm. and Annie Crayford, aged 12 months. " Of such is the Kingdom of Heaven." The funoral will leave his late residence, Epsom, at 3 p.m. to-morrow (Sunday). Friends rcspootfully invited. LODGE.—At her parents' residence, Bond street, Arch Hill. Ellen Florence, tho Infant daughter of William and Kllen Lodge. The funeral wIU leave at half-patt 3 o'olock to-morrow (Sunday). Frlonds please accept this invitation. WOOD.-On the 18th Maroh. ISB2. at hU late residence. New North Road, Auckland, Joseph Wood, aged 47 jear*. Tho funeral will leave his late rosldenoe on Monday, 20th last., at 3.30 p.m Friends will please accept this invitation. WILSON.—On the 16th Maroh, at hit parents' residence, Kjber Pass Road, Robort, son of Ralph and Elizabeth Wilson; aged 3 yoars and 8 mo>ths. WKIGLIC V.—On the 18th March, at Remnora, Wilfred Wrlgley, youngest Bon of James Wrlgley. aged 8 years.

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 1882.

For th« cau6« that laofis auisUuice, For the wrong that needs resiitanca For tlui fu»ur« in th« ilutaaca, And th* jjood tiiat we can do.

Tub Corrupt Practices Act promises to prove a veritablo beta noiv to candidates and all who tako any active part in elec tions, and will, unless amended in several particulars,have the certain effect of deterr ing good men from offering their services 03 members of tho House of Representatives.

If some recent decisions under this Act are

sound in law, its operation will not only have the effect of depreciating the standard

of onr representatives, but it will also para.

lyso all healthy activity on the part of electors. We have already expressed our approval of the provisions of the Act, in so far as these were calculated most effec tually to keep down the evils of corruption and intimidation; but when it is found that, in its practical working, the Act pro dnces a condition of things unfair, oppressive, and detrimental to pub lic interests, our expressions of praise must be taken with considerable qualification. TheStanmore election peti tion, which resulted in the unseating of Mr Pilliett, exemplified one of thete points, and brought out into strong relief a portion of the Corrupt Practices Act which ought to be at once amended. We allude to clause 12 of the Act, which contains a defi nition of "illegal practices" at elections. JLt was clearly shown that Mr Pilliett had contravened this section by employing, for payment, an elector named Scott to act as clerk in one of the polling places; and,

though the Court expressed the opinion that the candidate bad transgressed unwit tingly, they declared him guilty of an illegal practice, with all the consequences implied in that sentence, and voided the election. Of course^ we do not dispute the maxim— "lgnorantia legis ncmineni ex cusat j" but if in any circumstances a plea oi ignorance might have availed, it was in respect of this very confusing and contra dictory clause of the Corrupt Practices Act. It declares that a candidate may employ and pay a certain number of scrutineers, clerks, and messengers, oq the occasion of an elec tion ; but while the scrutineers " may or may not be electors," it is made an illegal practice for any one, being an elector, to be appointed, or to act as clerk or messen ger. Thus an arbitrary distinction is created which cannot be supported, we should think, by even the semblance of a reason. If there is any corruption implied in paying a voter for acting as clerk, the same is true of his employment as scruti neer, and so long as the clauso remains in its preient shape, it can only tucceed in proving a trap to the unwary, and in bring ing law into contempt. The proper course is either altogether to forbid the paid em ployment of electors, or enact that any voter so employed shall not be entitled to vote, under pain sf punishment, which would effectually prevent employment be ing made the means of covert bribery. The British Act allows paid employment oi voter to any reasonable extent, but the rotes of such persons are disallowed. This does not prevent paid canvassers, &c, from voting secretly; and consequently cor ruption in this respect prevails. But in New Zealand, where the number of paid clerks, etc.,is so rigidly limited by law,it is hard to see any necessity for preventing their being electors. The effect of our law as it stands is to favour the rich candidate, since he can get his own employe's to act in promoting his return without payment, while the candidate in poorer circumstances cannot use similar means, and is thus placed at a disadvantage. Then, the punishment prescribed for illegal practices of this class is out of all proportion to the oitence. The money penalty of £100, or under, ought to be a sufficient infliction, without the degrading deprivations im posed. It is manifestly oppressive to punish such an act as that of Mr Pilliett, which had no corrupt intent, with exclusion from 11 electoral rights for a period of three years, besides the ignominy of being publicly proclaimed in the voters' list as : " a person convicted of corrupt or illegal practices" for the same length '

of time. The Stanmore case will, wo understand, form the subject of am Interpellation at the first meeting of Parliament; and wo trust that attention will be directed to it in such a way as will secure a more equitable adjustment of the law. In connection with the trial for North FrankliD, there are two points that strike us as calling for immediate legislative action. Although the decision of the Court in adjudging Hattaway as guilty of intimidation for threatening Dovcll with the consequences of kis breach of the law in getting wrongfully upon the roll, was severe, wo are not disposed to quarrel with it. Intimidation of every kind ought to be punished without remorse, and any relaxation of the law in that respect would be exceedingly danger ous. But the ruling of the judges upon the question of the secrecy of the ballot is one 'hat strikes at the very root of the whole system. In the English Act a clause ex preisly provides tbat any mark whatsoever by which the identity of the voter may be detected shall invalidate the vote. The in tention of the New Zealand Act h plainly enough to make the secrecy absolute, and we believe that the omission of a specific clause dealing with marks was either an oversight or because it was con sidered that the general terms of the Act were sufficient to support a Returning Officer in enforcing secrecy. The Judges have ruled otherwise, and not a moment should be lost in making good the detect by the introduction of the English system. Tho prohibition ought to be of such ft character as to prevent tho use of a coloured pencil, or the making of any special mark such as could bo detected by a sharp scrutineer. Otherwise tho doubt which makes threats or payment for votes not worth the risk, will bo swept away, and for these purposes—tho main ones of its existenco—the ballot is no better than open voting. The other matter that suggests a revision of the pre- Bent law is the irregularity at Otahuhu, Six votes were found in the ballot-boxes in excess of those that had been tioked by tho poll-clerk who was iv charge of tho roll. Now, from an acquaintance with the (lurry into which Returning Officers and clerks are sometimes thrown during an caKer olec tion contest, we think it highly probable that the omission of the absolutely neces sary duty of ticking the name of every person to whem a voting paper Is lsaucd Is by no means an uncommon one. Few elections could stand the test of an election petition without revealing more irregularities than those discovered in North Franklin. Yet tbo want of protection against stuffing tho ballot-boxes which this non-ticking signi fies is so very serious that we believe exception could not have been takeu by anyone to the decision of tho Court if thj election had been declared void on that ground. It la thero fore desirable that attention should bo given to the diseorcry of a better system of check ueiiaat oyemgiuU by the Returning Officen, and also againtt personctiori, than the ticking of th« roll affords. If oreiy olcctor, were roquired to nign his namo in a book when he received tho bkllot-papor an absolute guarantee against errors like tbat at Otahuhu would be given, and a clue to any person who was guilty of personation would remain iv tho hands »f the Returning Officer without any reference whatever to the ballot papers after they had passed through the hands of the elector. Th")se are among the lessons of the election which tho Government ought to be pre pared to give effect to in a short 15ill when Parliament next assembles.

Removal of the Native Lands Court.

Tub Native Minister was waited upon to day by several legal gentlemen to protest against thu removal of ihc Native Lands Court Department. It was represented to Mr Brrco that from tho experience of the profession where one application requiring reference to the Head it the Department came from tho South there wero fifty arising in Auckland, and very great public inconvenience would follow the removal. It was also pointed out that the Department was a purely judicial one and ought to be located in the district where its business chiefly arises. The only reason which tho Government have offered for tho proponed change—namely, that tlm Cabinet wish to have the Departmeut more under their control—is a most extraordinary one. The Government are largely interested pecuniarily iv the business brought before tho Court, and therefore, the Judges ought the more com pletely lo discharge their duties free from anything like Ministerial inlluenccand wire pulling. The Nativo Lauds Court decide i iv ono year cases representing groater valuo than the Supremo Court decides in ton years. The more reason, therefore, why tho independence of the judges should bo completely guaranteed, In administrative matters, moreover, it is expressly pro vided by th.a Nativo Lands Court Act, 18S0, that "AH administrative business of tho Court shall he carried on by tlio Chief Judge." The proposal is objectionable every way. It is heedless of public couvonieuco and tho rights of suitors in tho Courts of tho colony; it is an attempt to frustrate the intention' of Parliament in liberating tho Court from Government manipulation ; and, finally, it is another link in that chain of cen tralism against which tho entire colony has been vainly struggling year after year. If Mr Urjca ever really contemplated such a step wa trust that he has seen sufficient reason in tho objections that havo been raised to deter him from committing deliberately so fatal an error. It is a step which, if taken, will certainly have to bo retraced on an appeal being made to Parliament. There are matters in which tho people will quietly surrender their privileges to officialism, but we apprehend that their legal rights ia not one of those things.

The Hon. Mr Bolleston left for Cor* mandel to-day.

The congregation of St, Thomas's Mis lion Church will hold a conversazione on Tuesday evening next in celebration of tho re-opening of the church for divine service

Some mischievous or evil-disposed person has been cutting tho velvet cushions in the saloon of the ferry steamer Victoria. The directors of the company should offer a reward for ttio detection of tho offender.

We may mention in oonnection with yes terday's proceedings (children's feast, Domain), that Mr Quick and Mr Jobson kindly sent 'buses to take to and from tho Domain the younger children.

The total amount of money in tho totalise tor on the Napier Handicap was £574. Unly two investors spotted tho winner, so that they would tako upwards of £250 each.

It will be seen by advertisement in another column that Mr W. F. Bnckland announces that he will again be a candidate for the vacant seat in Franklin North.

Mr G. Lewis will sell on Mooday next Mr Neumegen's stock of unredeemed pledges, the sale talcing place at the lattcr's pawn office in Queen-strcot.

At tho meeting of the French Literary Club this evening Mr A. Grang6 will give the concluding portion of his interesting lecture on "The Life of a Parisian Artisan."

We are informed that the two deacons who are to be admitted to Priest's Orders by the Bishop of Auckland this month, and the layman who is ts bo made a deacon, will all be ordained at the Church of tho Holy Sepulchre on Saturday next, March 25 (tho day of tho Annunciation) at 11 o'clock.

The native African missionary, the Rev, Gow Jukufifar, will preach in the Pitt street Wesleyan Church to morrow eveniup, at half-past six o'clock. No doubt a very large congregation will greet his appear ance.

We remind the residents of Kemuera that Mr Kobson will appear at the Social Ha 11 this evening. Having had the pleasure of hearing Mr Kobson last evening at the North Shore we can, with confidence, re commend his entertainment as being an exceedingly clever and interesting one. His voice is' phenomenal, covering no lesi than 4J octaves, with top soprano notos of perfect clearness and purity.

A complimentary benefit is to be tendered to Mr DeLias on Monday night by the members ef the dramatic company at pre sent performing at the Theatre Royal. Our local theatrical entrepreneur is well entitled to some mark of appreciation at the hands of the public for whose entertainment he has catered with so much enterprise and judgment during the last ten years or so, and now that he is just recovering from a long and painful illness il will prove both appropriate and tiraeous. We hope Mr Delias will lie honoured with a bumper house, and if tho patronage is to be j measured by his deserts, there need be no reason to doubt the result. Tho pieco de resistance will be tho attractive comedy, "All that Glitters is not Gold,"

Mr Gow, JukuQfar will give an address at the Suuday evening theatre service, commenciag at S o'clock.

Mr D. F. Evans notifies to the Ponsoriby ratepayers that the election of tho Licensing Cornmittoo takes place next Monday, and solicits Totes on that occasion,

To the Editor: Sir,—ln consequence of a ruffianly report made by an interested party connected with the Devonport Ferry Company, tbat the steamer Tongarin is in an unsafe condition, the proprietors of the vessel have resolved to dock her on Friday next, when the evidenoe that the report is a ruffianly one may be proved.—(Signed) IC. Weight, Agent.

Suuday announcements of religious ser vices will bo found in the usual column. Anniversary services at Grafton-road Wes leyan Church; Bt. David's Presby.teriaD, evening lecture by Key T. M. Fraser, M.A., "Joseph, the Statesman;" Lome street Hall, at 11, Rev, S. Edgcr on "Ke sponiiibilities in Life ; ''Temperance Hall, evening lecture, "The Coming Judgment;" Theatre Koyal, addresses and hymns.

"The Colonel" was reproduced at the Theatre Koyal last night, and played with considerable spirit to an excellent house. The cast was the same as on the occasions of the previous representations of the comedy, and the principals were frequently and loudly applauded. " The Irish Emi grant" was the after piece, and it pro ti acted the evening's performance till near midnight. Miss Maggie Knight, Miss Adelle, and Messrs McGowan, Elliott, aud Welsh sustained the leading rfiles. " Tho Merchant of Venico " aud " The Colonel " form tho bill for to-night's performance, the last of the season.

To tho Editor : Sir, —I beg to propose that the Choral.Society should give a repotion of last Tnesday's performance, admission being by payment of Is and 2s Gd, the proceeds to be devoted to paying partially or entirely for the music used by the members. At present, what with music and 'bus fares, suburban membership is rather an expen sivo luxury. If this suggestion were adop ted and proved successful, every perfor mance during the year might be repeated publicly, and a good income be raised thereby. 'JHiis would be far better than having extra conceits to meet deficiencies, us was proposed some time time ago. Yours, &C Ciiouus.

The quarterly concert by tho members of the Auckland Philharmonic Society will be held on Monday evening next, in tho Choral Hall. The programmo appoars in the STAB, and consists of sacred and secular selections of a very choice character. t"rot fesior Cailliau is a careful and patien tcachor, has given much satiifaction to hia pupils, and on Monday tho public will hare a fair opportunity of forming an estimate of. hi» abilitiei by the results of his training. All the eoloa, duets, and choruses will have full orchestral accompaniment. We noed only call attention to the programme, in which will bo found particulars.

Mr Justice Gillies sat in banco and in Chambers yesterday and disposed of some formal bustnosß. In banco Mr Georgo moved for a declaration of complete execu tion of a deod of arrangement in the estate of John Thomas Smith, and Mr S. Mcsketh mado a similar application in respect of the estate «f James Soppett. They wero both granted. Iv Chambers His Honor giantcd probate In ro K. N. 11. Matthews, James Qualtrougb, Edwin Jonss, and Edward Lonsdale (deceased), and letters ofndminU* tratiou wero ordered to issuo in ro Petor James, Donald Buchanan, and Sir William Martin, Knight (deceased).

The following arc tho events decided nt the Hibernian Society's sports after we went to press yesterday : — Married Women's Kace, 75 yards ; first prize, box of toa (presented by Messrs Holland and Fort/.er) ; second prize, brooch and ear rings. Mrs Beamish, 1; Mrs Butler, 2 Three-legged Kacc. Messrs Kyun and Kirby won this event. Tho Sack Race— prize, half-a-guinea—was won by Mr J. Kyau. Tho programmo finished with a raco between officers and past-officers of tho society. Mr Jennings won, closely followed by Mr W. G. Con nelly. Amongst tho visitors in the afternoon was Mr Maakell, Registrar to tho >ow Zealand Univorsity. 'J his gentleman Moon nude himself very popular amongst the little ones, by organising scramble* for fruit, &c. a raco among the lady teachers of tho .Newton Christian Doctrine Society for two valuable prizes, an inkstand and a book, presented by Mr Mahon ; the first prize was won by Miss Willie ,tho second, Miss Mullally. Thcro wan also a race for an inkstand; presented by Miss Annie Benjamin, to be run for by the members of her class; it was won by Miss Burke.

A meeting of members of the old Co lonial Defence Foreo was held this after noon in view of the sitting of the Com mission iv Auckland. Major Walmslcy presided, and referred to tho fact that when tins forco wns organised the mon were each promised grants of land, and that condition of membership had not been kept. Mr Thomas Kussell, who was Native Minister at the time of the disbaiulmeut, denied that tlic members wero entitled to the grants, but hewia not appointed Native Minister until three weeks after the force was gazetted, and therefore knew nothing about the circumstances. Mr Hutchison referred to nn appointment mado by Mr Russell with Major Gordon, when tho latter win to havo attended with evidence to prove that tho claims wero well grounded. Mr Russell, however, broke tho engagement, having gone to England on tho day before that was fixed. It was stated that Major Gordon and tho Public Petitions Committee had both reported in their favour, and after somo further dis cussion, it was agreed to tako the advice of Mr Heakoth as to how they should pro ceed.

A series of highly interesting cases camo beforo the To Awamutu Court on tho lGth mat., Mr Northcroft, K.M., and Mr F. Parsons, J.P., prcsidin/j. The diflerencea to bo adjusted wcro thoso of Mr Sloane, Chairman of tho Kangiawhia Koad Board, (for whom Mr Grefliani waa Counsel) and Mr W. Johns, a late candidate for the Waipa Soat, for whom Mr Speed appeared. Sloane v. Jolma: This was a charge against defendant for abusive and insulting lan guage. Defendant was bound over to keep the peace, himself in £20 and two sureties in £10 each j costs, £42. Johns v. Sloane : A charge of using tho words, " What Is yonr opinion on tho Bocial evil, Johns " at a Par liamentary election meeting at To Awamutu on 19th Nov. Dismissed, with costs £312t. Johns t. Sloane : A liko clurgc, in respect of language used on tho 11th February, viz., "Go and pay the money to Hanna ford, Johns." Dismissed, with coats £1 3a. Johns v. Sloane: A like charge, languago alleged to have been used on 25th February, viz., "You lie, Johns; you are a liar." In thla case, as in the previous one, Mr Jobna was greatly affected while under Mr Gresham's cross-examination, and gavo froo vent to teara. Tho JR.M. considerately offered to adjourn for a short time, in order that Mr Johns might recover himself, This •ffer was, however, declined by Mr Johns, and tho caso proceoded. Dismiesod, with costs £13s.

The complimentary concert and ball to Mra Cottiogham last uigbt was satisfactory to to all concerned. The friends of the lady scucessfully exerted themselves in her favour, and tho result was, to uso a steroo. typed phrase, a "brnnpor house." Tho original programme was carried out, with one or two exceptions, and the music aid songs were creditable, Miss Griffiths, the pianist of tho evening, was frequently cheered in her successful duties as accom p&nyi«t. A word of congratulation is due to Mra Homer, whoße singing was really excellent; and in answer to an encore, the lady gave ".Remember Me." Mrs Gottingham did well with her sim ple song " The Lover and tho Bird," although suffering from a cold. The duet, " Very Improper," by Miss and Mr Peace, was one of the most finishfid events of the hour. It was capitally ren dered by sister and brother, wuo were re called and repeated a part. Mr A. Smith, tho "people's elocutionist," gave several recitations, " O'fTafferty's Sea Voyage," " The Darned Old Stocking," and an effec tiyo rendering from Shakespeare. Mr Littlewood was careful and happy in "My Sweetheart when a Boy," and "In the Gloaming." MrAbernethy's "The Anchor's Weighed," was a decided success, but the duot, "Love and Avar" (Abernethy and Isaacs), was o comparative failure, the voices being inharmonious, and occasionally at variance with the music. Miss Lead ham and Miss Marson (pupils of Professor Cailliau), were pleasing in their respective j melodies. Mr Dalheim was unfortunate in selecting "Billy Looley, the Kentucky weed," he might have done better. Mr and Mrs Goodisou, Mra Bettany, Mies Laurence. I and Miss Griffiths contributed sentimental ' and comic songs, and finally "God Save the Queen," led by Mrs Cottingham, brought the concert to a close. About 80 couples stood up for dancing, under the sway of Mr C. B. Andrew, M.C. The orchestra music was provided by Messrs Rarruay (piano), Clough (violin), and Jar man, of Wellington (piccolo). Ample re freshments were provided, and dancing kept up uulil ?.30. a,m.

The Customs launch returned from the quarantine station last evening. The Aus tralia's passengers are reported all well. Mr Brophy, quarantine superintendent, re ceived a communication from Wellington this afternoon authorising their release. -They will probably coino to town in the launch to-night.

A number of natives were present yester day at the Domain, also in the children's procession, and received every possible attention at the hands of Father Walter McDonald, aud tho members of the Chris tian Doctrine aociety. They amused them selves very much at the various races, and succeeded in carrying off some themselves.

The last match of the present series of competitions of the Auckland Rifle Asso ciation is taking place to-day. The principal prize for the day is tho Citizens' Cup, while the aggregate of the four matches will decide the ownership of tho Associa tion medal. The ranges are 300, 500, and COO yards, 7 shots at each distance. The principal scores at the 300 yards range are: Hay, 25; Leigh aLd Watson, 24 ; Kobinson, 23; Soall, Taylor, Rose, Hanley, 22; McLeod, £ady, Haslett, Allen, F. Smith, Partington, Stirling, and J. Fairs, 21.

Constable Haslett brought iv a prisoner to-day named James Tanner, who was arrested at Paeroa, and charged under the Vagrant Act with having no risible means. He was committod for one month to Mount Jideu gaol. Tanner, however, is evidently suffering under mental derangement, and will undergo medical treatment and pro bably be committed to the Lunatic Asylum. The man is well known as Tanner the Jockey, and some two years a»o, met with a severe accident which had a deteriorating effect upon him. "He imagines that he haa a claim upon Govern ment. He was discovered in the bush in a lamentable condition, and might have per ished had ho not been discovered.

The following business is fixed for the Harbour Hoard on Tuesday :—" To receive applications for cadctship, and to fix date for examination for same." Mr Compton to move—No. 1. "That the City Council be requested to consent to the Board pro claiming the boundaries of Quay-street wharf, Hobson-Htreet wharf, aud JNelson street wbarf.in terniß of letter from tho Town Cleik under date of December 16, 1881." Mr D. H. McKenzie to move—No, [2 "That it bo an instruction to the Works aad Endowment Committee to take into consideration the annual reports of the harbour-master, engineer, and secretary to the Board, and report on the same to the Board at its next meeting." No. 3 "That tbo Works and .Endowment Committee meetings take place on the Thursday pre ceding the Board meetings."

To tho Editor : Sir, —In reply to your correspondent, who signs himself " Con sistency," all I mean by the passage be quotes is exemplified by the tenor of his own letter, viz,, that some of the temper ance candidates would have gone too fast for public opinion to sustain the restric tions they would seek to impose. Sinco I am not a Good Templar, and am iguorant of ths bond they arc under, I cannot answer for any want of consistency, if any, on their part. For myself, I violate none in seeking to bring about tho ultimate sup pression of tho tratiic in intoxicating drinks by a gradual and educational cro- CB9, rather than have tho Licensing Com mittees to be controlled by those interested in the traflic.- I remain, yours, &c, Joseph Nkwman.

LATEST CABLES.

CONSERVATIVE CAUCUS,

[11KUTEBS TELKOXAMS.]

LONDON, March 16. At a mooting of tho Conservative members of Parliament to-day it was unanimously resolved to givo the fullest support to the loaders of tho party, and strenuously oppose tho cloture proposals of tho Government, It was further resolved to act with caution ia dealing with the Irish question.

COOLIES IN QUEENSLAND.

In tho llousu of Commons to-day, Mr Courtcnay, Undor-Secretary for tho Colo nic?, in reply to a q<icstiou, stated that tho Queensland Government had not asked permission to introduce Indian Coolies into ilic Colouy.

WOOL SALE.

At tho wool salo to-day, 12,500 bales were offered, lhero was loss demand. Prices wero occasionally easier, 6,200 baits have been withdrawn from the sale, out of a total of 145,000 offered siuco the opening of the series,

SCINTILLATIONS.

"Ha brief, for It Is with words as with sunbeams; the more, thor are oor.donaod the deeper they born.'—Soutuby.

Always in Time,—1' T," Wax-Works, —Bee-hives, Itatlior Neat.— Uaw spirits. Mirew'd Mon,—Hen-pecked husbands. A Stream of Anmsemont,—A diverted liver. The policeman's standing joke.—"Movo on." When docs a foot remind you ot a choesu. —When it's a stilt on.

A ■" wet" Morning in Scotland.—The first morning in tho year. What word is there of five letters that by taking two leaveß but one?— Stone. How to make Jaai Tart.—Leavo out the sugar when you put in tho plums, A man, being tormented by corns, kicked bis foot rthrougb. a window, and the pane was gon« instantly.

A block of shops is to be erected opposite Maneield's Buildings in Albort-streot.

The Protestant Alliance Grand Com mittee is holding its annual session at tho Thames. Bro J. McDonald hua been elected K.W.G.M.

At a meeting at Ngaruawahia it was re solved that afellmongery companyjbe formed with a capital of £5,000 £1 shares. A atrong provisional diroctory waa formed. F. H. Fenwick, a member of the United Club, Christchurcb, mado 170 in the match Banks v. Insurance Company.

Thero has been very oppressive and cloae weather during the last few days lo Christ church, especially at night. Lnst£nigbt tho lowest temperature was G5 Fahr.

The meeting of tho Parnoll Borough Council, adjourned till last night re water supply, was again postponed, Mr Boylan net having been able to complete his'report on Mr Seccombe'a well,

The railway receipts for February amoun ted to £71,987 ; the oxpeadituro to 58*56 per cent, of the receipts.

When does a budding young damsel burst into fruit T—When buo becomes tho applo of somebody's eye. It is not true that goat runs in a family, No ono ever saw gout make a decent at tempt at walking even. C»n, for the Sex.—Why should a post card bo alluded to in the feminine gonder ? Because it can't keep a secret.

Tho half-yearly meeting of the share holders in the Bank of Mew Zealand is ad' vcrtiscd to bo help on the 20th April.

Mr M. H. Roe has taken steps at once to rc-orect his mill at Onehnnga.

Mr Landurgan, who was offered the posi tion of organist at St. Matthew's Church, has declined, and tho vestry are now ad vertising for another man. Mr George Hemus conducted tho "John Trcgonoweth " service of song with great success at Wa-rk worth last Friday.

Ammonia has been used with great suc cess by M. Molacue, of tho Royal Belgian Academy of Medicine, in the treatment of pulmonary diseases,

The worst forms of malaria have their origin in close bedroom?, filthy backyards, stables, sink?, and drains. Habits produce more disease than so-called malaria.

Dr. Barksdale, of the Virginia Lunatic Asylum, reports the case of a negro lunatic whose brain weighed seventy ounces. This is believed to be the largest brain on record, except that of Oliver Cromwell.

Auuuste Kouzeard, tho husband of Christine Nilleon, who has become insane owing to losses in speculation, was born in the Isle of Bourbon, and is half a Creole. Mr Williamson's Dramatic Company finished a successful season last night in Wellington, and return to Melbourne, Mr Williamson continuing his New Zealand tour with the "Patience" Opera Com pany.

Freeman, the Australian sprint-runnor, was defeated in each race that he started for in Wellington yesterday. He attributes his defeat to having strained one of the sinews of his leg when running at Christ church. O'Brien won the mile race in 4mins. 34sccs. O'Connor won the two mile walking match in 15.}mins. O'Brien ran ten miles within the hour, the time being 58J-mius.

CHRISTCHURCH this day! TJRE. The dwelling-house of Mr George Baker, : London-stroet, Lyttelton, was destroyed by tire, at midnight. Mrs Baker and chil dreu hud a very narrow escape. The Mouse was insured for £200, and furniture for £159, iv Victoria.

SPORTING.

AUCKLAND RACING CLUB'S AUTUMN MEETING.

Nominations for the three principal events to be run at the Autumn Meeting of the Auckland Racing Club closed last evening. They are in every way satisfactory and well up to the average, The following are the horses engaged:—

Autumn Handicap of 150sovs., added to ths sweepstakes or Ssovh ouch, second horse to receive 2530V8 out of the stakes, and third horse to Bare his sweepstake. Nomination, 2sovs. to go to the fttnds. Nominations, with 2aovs enclosed, to be made to the secretiry at 8 o'clock p.m. on Friday, March 17. Weights to appear by 8 o'clock p.m. on first night of the races, and acceptances, with 2sov9, by 10 o'clock p.m., balance, 3sovs, at the post. Distance, l J miles, Paramena Mlsohief, Othello, King Quail, St. Pitrlok. Libeller, Lone Hand, Yatapa. Vampire, Mavis, Kenil worth, Lara. Louie. Blander Flily, Ijirry, Maid of Honour, Mr Dream.Luokponny, Kaudwlek, Comet, Boukar, Grand Duchess, N or M, Gilderoy. Handicap Stebpleohisk of lOOsovs, with a sweepstakes of of 3aova each, amount aooruing from sweepstake to go lo second horse. Nom ination, 29OVS. Nominations, with 2aovs en closed, to be made to the secretary by 8 o'clook 1 p.m., on Friday, March 17. Weights to appear on or about Friday, March 24 ; and acceptances, with 3sovs, to the sweep on night of mineral entry. Distance, about 3} miles:—Raton, Matau, To Whlti, Grey Momus, Wild Dayrell, Angler, Sportsman, Catoh 'JCm, Hard Times. Lone Hand, Harkaway, N or M. Kastbr Handicap of ISOsovs., added to a sweepstakes of ssovb each, sacond horso to re ceive 25sovs out of the »t»kes, and third horse to save his sweepstake. Nomination, L'sops to tho funds. Nominations, with 2eovs enclosed, to bo mado to the secretary by 8 o'clook p.m. on Friday, March 17. Weights to appear on or about Friday, Maroh 21. Acceptances, with 2sovs, on sight of general eniry; b&lanco of sweep, 330V8, at the post. Winner of any handi cap of the value of 200sov§,aftor the declaration of weights, to carry Slba extra: of lOOsova. iilba extra; of the two 71 ba extra. Distance, 2 mile s. —Paramena, Maid of Honour, Dewdrop. Lara, St. Patrlok, Libeller, Yatapa. Larry, My Dream, Luokpennr, Kandwlck, Angler, Louie, Slander fllly, Harkaway. N or M. Mlsobief, Othello, King Quail, Comet, fc'oukur. Lone Hand, Tim Whiffler, Gilderoy.

The weights will be allotted by a com mittee of the club, consisting of Messrs Marke, Kirkwoodj Cosgrave, and Percival. The handicaps are due on or about Friday next.

Henderson's Mill Races.

President: Honorable T. Henderson, M.LA. Vloe-Pr«sldent: Allen K. Taylor, Esq. Stewards: Mr Thos. Henderson, Juir,, Mr A. Hepburn, Mr K. Garrett, Mr J. Smyth, Mr J ilalln. Judge-: W. J. Hurst, Ksq.. M.H.R. Starter :Mr Archibald. Olerk o£ the Course: MrO. Oowan. Olork of the Ho«l(«: Mr Pnuldur. Handioapper and Secretary: Mr W. Percival.

The racet^at Henderson's Mill yesterday were very successful, tho weather being very fine, and tho attendance good. The paiscngcrs by the 11 a.in, train had a lively time of it on the trip up. There were the usual stoppages for coal and water, aud to make matters more agreeable, the train came to a standstill half-way between New Lynn and Waikomiti, and after seve ral ineffectual attempts to get on, steadily retraced its way down the Incline, A delay of five minutes occurred, and then one-half of tho train had to be left bebind, while the other half waited at Waikomiti till the engine went back sod brought tho detached carriages. The 11 train arrived at Hender son about luo minutes before tho one that left at a quarter to twelve. The whole affair was a striking commentary on Auck land railway management. There were about five hundred people ou tho ground. Owing to unfavourable conditions, our feathered messengers did not find their way home in time for our last evening's isauo,and our report is therefore appended : Handicap Hukdlk Race, of 40«ov<>, 2 miles. Harkaway 1 Kakau 2 N or M was scratched. Rakau went away with the lead, and kept it during tho first time round, Harkaway keeping within a length. At tho fifth hurdle Harkaway ■prang ahead, aud gained all tho way to the seventh hurul*, where Kakau full. The jockey was not Berioualy hurt—only a little Hhakon. Ho remounted and finished. Harkaway won amidst cheers. Laing rode Harkaway, and Smailc, Kakau. Maidkn Plate, of 25sovs., ljmllea. Pacific 1 Nigger 2 Vortex 3 Outcast was the favourite at fi to 4, Betting was :—Vortex, 2 to 1 ; Wild Idyll. 4 to 1 ; Niggir, sto 1; Pacific, 5 to 1; Twilight, 3to 1; Woodpecker, 3to 1; Arline, 7to 1, A good start was effected, and Pacific went away with a splendid lead, Nigger and Vortex being next iv tho order given, and the others well up. Pacific kept the lead for some distance, and then Nigger took up tho running, bringing Vor tex with him. At the beginning of tholait quarter, these three -were all together, and a splendid neck-and-ncck race up the straight ensued, Nigger leading by a nose. Whips were freely used, and after a grand struggle, Joe Williams landed Pacific win ner by the barest shade. Hehdeksok's Mill Cup of lOOsovs., 2 miles. B. Coylc's eh h Kandwick, Gyrs, 9st 21bs (J. Williams) 1 J. Lennard's bmDcwdrop, aged,7stGibs (J. Lang) 2 J. Ryan's blk g Luckpenny, aged, 7st 61bs (J. McGoo) 3 Kaudwick was a firm favourite at 5 to 4, 6 to 4 was oflered on Dewdrop, and 5 to 4 on the field. This was a grand race. The animals kept well together for a time ; and Harkaway and Luckpenoy had the run ning in turn. Randwlck then came through tho crowd, and after a game struggle, won by barely half a length. Selling Race, of 30iovs. Entrance, 2sovs. Weight for age. Distance, l.t miles. Major Walmsley's eh c Moonetono (50sots), 4yrs, Bst 7lbs I R. Thorpe's blk g Magician (20sovs), aged, 7«t 2 A. Lamb's b g Goldfinch (2(taovß), syrs, 7«t9lbs 3 The betting was 6 to 4 on the field, 6 to 4 against Magician, 2 to 1 against Moonstone, 4 to 1 against Woodpecker. The winner was put up by Mr Carr, and bought in by tho owner at tho price fixod—£so. Gold finch was sold to Mr Shepherd for £1510s. Railway Handicap of 30 aovs., second hone to receive 5 tors, out of the stakes. Distance, one mile. Mr B. Coylo's eh h Kandwick, flyrs. 9st 91b« (J. Williams) ... l Mr R. Dialer's blk h Nigger, 3yrs, 6st 2 Mr Dibble's br g Deceiver, aged, flat 41bs 3 Lara and N or M. were scratched. The betting was 3 to 1 on Kandwick. Deceiver led at the start, but lUndwick, when called upon, c»rae away, and won by a IcDgth, Consolation Handicap, of Issovs. Bn tranco, lsor. Distance, 1 mile. Luckponny, 7«t lOlbs ..•, 1 Goldfinch, s»t 71bs 2 i The race resulted in an easy victory for Luckpenny,

OAMARU RACES.

OAMARU, Thursday. OAMABU JOCKEY CLUB HANDICAP. Taninun 1 Legerdemain 2 Adamant 3 Rockat asd Chancellor also ran. Won by a length. Adamant was third, about 2 lengths away. Chancellor and Rocket a 1 number of longths off. S«LUNU HACK. Supplejack l Boughleen Dhoun 2 Bello 3

Hawkes' Bay Races. — Second Day.

Hawkk's Bay Platb, of lOOsoy*. Weight for age. 2 miles. Martin's Virginia Water, 4yrs, Bst 121bs (Robinson) 1 Westraacott's Dauphin, 3yrs, Bst (Stone) 2 No others started. The betting was 2to 1 on Dauphin. It was a slow race, and was won easily by a length and a half.

Consolation, of 50sovs. Munn's Poukar, 7st 21bs 1 Cbittam's Dan, 6st lOlbs 2 Jones's Prim, Bst 21bs 3 My Dream (7st) also started. It was a capital race, and was won by a neck.

PANMURE RACES

The following weights have been declared by Mr W. Percival: -

'Panmurk Handicap. — Yatapa. Sat lOlba ; Lara, Sat libs; Oewdrop. Sat; Lnokpenny, 7st lOlha; Aketke, Gst 71bs; Juno. Cat 7Rw. Uurdles. — Hard Times, Hat; Akoako, lOst riba; Hawthorn, lOsb

ONEHUNGA SPORTS.

Thoro was a good attendance at tbe athletic sports held at On'ohunga yesterday. Tbe results of the lending events proved a rery j.Teot surprise, more than one "mora)|" being upset. Donovan won the big Han

dicap—loo, 21)0, and 300 yards—Monnock being second. Donovan also was the victor of the 400 yards Hurdle Race. Huckstep also achieved a double victory, being the winner of tho Mile Race and the Mile Walking Match.

CABLEGRAMS.

[Rkutkh's Telkgbams.]

A CONCESSION TO THE "SUS PECTS."

LONDON, March 16. It is announced that Mr Forster, Chief Secretary for Ireland, has arranged that the imprisoned "suspects" sball receive an additional two hours' recreation daily. THE BRADLAUGH CASE. The President of Northampton Radicals has applied to tho Queen's Bench for a mandamus to compel Mr Bradlaugh to per form his parliamentary duties. The Radi» cal electors demand that he should have a hearing at the bar. THE QUEEN ON THE CONTINENT. Her Majesty the Queen has arrived safely at Mentone. COMMERCIAL. Consols, 100 J. New Zealand securities are unchanged. Total reserve in notes and bullionintheßankof England, £14,250,000. Markets for colonial breadstuff^ and tallow are unchanged. There is a fair demand for hides of all kinds, but at unchanged prices.

AUSTRALIAN.

GRAIN MARKET,

ADELAIDE, Saturday.

Wheat is dull nt 5s 9J. Town flour, £12 to £12 5s ; country brands, £11 5s to £11 7s 6U

SYDNEY, this day. New Zealand wheat, 5s lid ; New Zea land oats, 3s ; maize, 4a 9(1.

CUSTOMS SEIZURE.

BHISBANE, this day.

Customhouse officials h»vo seized £500 worth of jewellery, which have been smuggled into this port.

V.M.C. ASSOCIATION.

ANNUAL MEETING.

The annual meeting of the members of the Young Men's Christiaa Asso ciation was held last evening. Tea was provided at G. 30 p.m., and the public meeting took place subiequently. Mr J. L. Wilson presided, and the proceedings opened with the 119 th hymn. The Chair nan delivered an interesting address, in the course of which ho referred to the suc cess that had attended their efforts during the past year, and the gratitude which they should express to God for the- same. The Bucce»s that had attended the labours of the society made it manifest that God was with it, There was an evld«nt increase of vitality in all the agencies connected with the society. Ho recommended the mem. bers to bo united in all their actions for good, and reminded them that without a well defined object good and hard work was almost sure to be waited. They must tbcraforo regard the conditions of success ful service as essential. The lirst thing was to be united, as Christian men sh«uld be. Tho unity was sure to bo followed by good results. If the young men neglected to comply with tho*o conditions their neglect would react upon themselves, and they would experience diiappointment. Individually they would suffer, as a collec tive body they would suffer, and the work itself would suffer from any laxity in tha observance of tho conditions of their labour. All around they must observe organisations of evil, and that being a?, efficient organisation was necessary to do the work of Christ and Christianity. Tho annual report, which was read by Mr Thomas Buddie, hon, secretary, showed Unit the subscribers number 152 at 20i, and 276 at 10«, making a total of 428. Thii shows an increase of 45 on last year. Of the above, 33 subscribe to the reading-room alone, 152 to the reading-room and library, and 238 to the library alone. 34 members have been admitted, maktng the number of members now to be 156. The debit balance lait year was £101 d 2d; an effort was made early in tho year to pay this off, and £102 11s 4d was raised. The sum of £52 12» has been expended in neces sary repairs, Tho net 'proceeds of the lectures wero less by £34 than the previous year. In consequence of the resumption by the association of one of tho shf>p3 in Wdle-ley street, the income from rents has been £20 loss than formerly. Not withstanding these drawbacks, if the arrears of subscriptions were paid there would be no debit balance. The Library now contains orer 2,600 volumes, 162 hav ing been added during tho year, of which 97 were presented and 65 purchased. The average circula tion has been 940 books per month. The reading-room continues to be well pationised; large numbers of strangers are amongst its visitors. The committee have recently fitted up and furnished (by special subscription) a social room in Wellesley street, leading out of the reading-room, for the use of members of the Association and friends introduced by members,and arrange ments are in progrets for tho regular supply of refreshments in this room. The room will be available for chess and for social reunions. The attendance at lectures had been below that of former years. Tho employment and boarding-houso registers are kept by the general secretary, and have proved very useful during tho year. In connection with the more spiritual work of the associ ation, there is caus6 tor much gratitude to God for enniest effort put forth, and for evidence of good accomplished. Tuesday evening meetings have been well-attended, and it has increased during the last three or four months from 60r7 to about 20. The Thursday evening evangelistic service con tinues to attract a large and attentive audi ence. The attendance varies from 80 to 150 Social reunions hare been held quarterly. The Saturday evening Bible-reading and meeting for united prayer is much apprecia ted. The attendonco averages about 120. The Sunday afternoon Conversational Bible Class is regularly held from 3 to 4 o'clock, and tho attendance during the list year has been very encouraging, varying from 25 to 35. The interest in the Theatre services continues unabated. The whole of the ex penses hare been regularly met, partly by voluntary contributions, and occasionally thank-offerings have been received from persons who have been bcncStted by the services. About 12,000 suitable tracts have been distributed at the services during the past year. Social gatherings of workers have been held periodically, and have been much enjoyed. Mr Tudehopo, for whose hearty conduct of tho Service of Song tho thanks of the Association are due, lias retired, and Mr Tanfield has taken charge. Mora voices are nocded in the choir, and would be gladly welcomed by Mr Tan field, who feels a deep interest in the work. The fin uncial statement showed :—B eceipts, £630 9s 9d ; debit balance, £51 4d; city mission account, £142 15s; balance in hand, £115s; theatre service?, taken at the doors, £143 19s lOd; donations, £47. Total, £1913s 6d. Tho report and balance sheet were unanimously adopted. The following officers were elected for the ensaing year :—President: F. Btttley. Vice-Presidents ; Yen. Archdeacon Maun si-11, Keys. T. Buddie, Fraser, T. Hodgson, Guy, A. Reid, R. F. Macnicol, T. Spurgeon, J. Kobertson, Messrs J. Coupland, Daldy, Shaldors, Goldie, Hod. Colonel Haultain, Messrs G. Holdship, If, Larking T. Mac ffarlanp, J. Newman, and J. L. Wilson, Committe of Management: Messrs E, Bell' Douglas, F. G Bwington, G. flemus, A* Thome, Willouehby, A. Knight" Bamson, T. ' McManter, J. Buttle' S. Parker, W. Rushbrook, W. H> Smith, and J, Wiseman. Hon. Trea surer: Mr W. Callendar. Hon. Secre taries: Messrs Buddlo and F. Mitchell. It was agreed to communicate with the vice presidents, as it seemed doubtful whether some of them were willing. A vote of thanks was passed to Mr T. Buddie, hon, fecretary, for bis services during the past years Addresses wero then delivered by Messrs Vines, Douglas, Macdonald, and Gow Jukufifar, and the meeting concluded with tho benediction.

TELEGRAMS.

(FBOM OUR OWN OOERESPOIDEHT.)

COROMANDEL, this day. Yesterday's sports passed off pretty well. The races were unfortunately a failure' The regatta passed off pleasantly; the out', come of the regatta is a great swimming contest between Mr Jno. Boyd and Capt Gatland, distance from tho end of the wharf across the harbour to Beeion'i Island. The No. 3 Band, which came from town to the regatta sports, under Mr McComisb, isspokenhighlyofforthe ability they displayed. Our local band distin guished themselves at the rac»g under Mr Lonergan. There wero but few cases of rowdyism. Thieo came betote the Bench to-day. The Maori bellman at tho races threw up the big bell, which fell on Mr Grant's head, Another young man named McLeod broke out and started knocking people down in the street'; finally, attack ing Constable Hobson, he got knocked down himself and was handcuffed.

(PER PRItSS ASSOCIATION.)

NELSON, thin day, GOLD HUSH.

News received from West Wanganul give glowing accounts from the Goldea Ridgo Co.'a Stine at Auitoiori. This ompany, which has been for a long'period declaring dividends, is eaid to have struck the reef showing good gold. Dirt along the side of the reef gave 20ozs of gold to the dieh. The latest report stated that two tons of st6ne has bsen taken out of the reef, which is estimated to yield at least 100 pzs to the ton.

A CHILD'S THIGH POUND.

The thigh-bone of a child has been picked up in a wash of the tide at Pakewa. The search revealed other portions of a skeleton.

A terrific sea has been breaking on Fare well Spit, the roar being heard for many miles.

CHRISTCHURCH, Friday. THE BRIGANTINE MAMA VIR GINIA.

Tho 5.9. Akaroa, chartered by Messrs Liusey, Ward, and Co., on behalf of the Insurance Association, went to the island with Captain Dunsford, the Insurance As sociation's surveyor in command, for the purpose of ascertaining the condition of tho brigantine Maria Virginia, bonnd from Peru to Lyttelton with a cargo of sugar, which vessel put into Port Waitangi, Chath im Islands, in distress, having en countered heavy weather and become dis abled. Found the Maria Virginia, Ameri can-built brigantine, lying at anchor, dis mantled^ her lower masts, and 270 tons of her r.ujzar cargo out of 300 landed and warehoused. The cargo was found unin jured, and the vessel not so much damiged as was expected. The next day she was towed to Whangarea, where Captain Duns ford put carpenters and the necessary material on board to make her fit to coma on to this port. Captain Lawn, the master of the Maria Virginia, is coming up in tho Akaroa. The mate of the ikaroa.Mr Char •man, was left to bring the vesiel on here. The sugar landed will be brought up here by the Omaha, now at the islands.

CRIMINAL STATISTICS.

Tne return of criminal statistics gives the total offences reported in 1881 as 2098, against 2239 in 1880; the number of appre hensions was 1927, against 2030 in the pre vious year; tho number committed for trial was 63 men and 21 women in 1881, as against 77 men and 2 women in 1880; the prisoners summarily convicted In 1881 were 1391 men and 254 wonen, making a total of 1645, against 1608 in 1880. The accused persons discharged numbered 181 mea and 38 women in 1881, and 227 men and 66 women in 18S0. As usual, tho chief Item was the drunk and disorderlies, of whom there were 840, an increase on previous year. There were 314 caies of larceny—one more than in 1880, and 284 of vagrancy, also tn increase. In addition to them, there were 962 summons cases.

THK NORMAL SCHOOL SCANDAIJ

With reference to the statement! about a scandal at the Vormal School, the ohatr man of the Board of Education, to-day, re ported that the herd-mastor had held an investigation, firing the gentleman who had laid the complaint an opportunity of questioning the children caid to be im. plicatrd There was no evidence adduced, he said, substantiating the charges, ana the complainant expressed himself satisfied with the course adopted by tho Board, but in future a teacher would take charge of the infants in the playground during tha dinner hour.

This day.

Four youths, about 18 years of age, wero charged at the Magistrates' Court to-day, with being concerned in the recent brutal assault in the suburbs. John Gilpin and Thomas Fiber were each sentenced to eight months' imprisonment. Chamberlain was fined £14. Wilion Butterworth was dis charged. The Bench greatly regretted it had no power to inflict flogging.

DUHEDIN, Frldsyl DISCUSSION ON SIR G.M.O'RORKh/S

RESOLUTION

At a meeting of University of Otago graduates and undergraduates, held to night, to consider Sir G. M, O'Korke's resolution re granting degrees without keeping to-nis, a motion wa« proposed protes'ing against such resolution as being prejudicial to the interests of nffili»ted colleges and of tho University of Now Zealand; but an amendment to this was carried by eight votes to seven, that no action be taken.

PORT CHALMERS, Friday. THE SUNKEN STEAMER.

The efforts made to rai«e the steamer Koputai proved unsuccessful, but thoy will be repeated, A chain was passed under h#r, but it parted. The diver went down this morning, and found a hole three foot by two on the starboard side.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE'S COURT.-This day.

(Before J, a. Macdonald, Esq., KM.) Gray Covmcir, v. Dumwit,- This cue, wilon was a claim for £12 (rates), was heard laat January, whon Mr Uottor appeared tor Oounoil and Mr Theo. Cooper for dufondant— A. number of points having been raised by Mr Cooper, hla Worship reserved his decision. Judgment was given to-day, when the plaintiff w»s nonsuited Wlch;ooftß.—This concluded the businoae.

ROBSON'S RECITALS.

Mr Ron son gave, In the Do yon port Hall lust nif<hr, the second of hit series of dramatic and musical recitals, and It Is no mere extravagant compliment to say that he both astonished and delighted the audience with the versatility of his talent*, Ho has come amongst us so uaosteuta1 tioutly, and through the prior engagement of the principal places of amusement has beon obliged to give his Initial psrform ances at such a distance from the city proper, that people may be disposed to rate him rathor cheaply on those grounds. But the (act is that Mr Robson is one of tho moit graceful, powerful, and orotund of elocutionists who hare over visited Auck land, and that, in addition, he is an ex cellent musician and an accomplished singer, His voice Is alinott phenomenal in its ranget while its timbre is decidedly pleasing. Latr night he gave, without au effort, and in a manner that would not have discredited an average prima tionna, the beautiful aria, "Come per me Scrcno," from ''LaSom? nambula." There was no trace of falsetto in the performance of the piece. It was sung iQ ft Pure soprano and D in alt. was given out with a clew* ness and accuracy that could not be mistaken. He also executed very eftec» tivcly upon the flute a musical morceau composed by himself. Tho recitals we're six in pumber, ranging from " crave to gay, from lively to severe, and each and all of them were interpreted with spirit and great judgment. Clarence's Dream from " Richard HI." was recited with undoubted histrionic forco, while "The Bashful Man " was read in a way that enhanced materially its native humour. A Scotch recitation "Lookin1 for a Hooso,"'another comic piece entitled " Cousin Peter," a third selection, " The Curfew Must not Toll to-night" and the Witches' Scene from "Macbeth" wore also contributed. In this last performance, Mr Robson success fully mimicked bo less than seven different voices in order to distinguish one from another the characters who take part in the scene. The audience applauded their talented entertainer most heartily. M. LoroDZ, who is v pianiit of considerable skill and experience, gave several piano forte solos in tho course of the evening, and they were duly appreciated. Mr Robson appears to-night at Remuera, on Monday at Parnell, and on Tuesday evening in the Theatre Royal. Ho is a host in him self, and deserves to be patronised,

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR. SATURDAY. MARCH 18



HI A H T i: D TO SELL, pOKTAKLK TjiLOUK TRILLS. OPPENHKIMEB & CO., OUSTOM-HOUSK-STRKKT. AuctKUjn), Huve Juat landed ex Beatrice Havener, and tor Saloi OMB 32-INOH MONSON SINGLE OBARKD HILL, WITH TWO FKKNCH BURIt 870HEB FOB GRINDING WHBAT OB middlings. Price, £78 lOt. iLrCNSON-S pOHTABLK JJ|IIiLB BEST IN TUB WORLD, Svery Mill 'a a model of Itself, got np OS Moohanicßl prinolplos It will not olog or ohoko under any speed Belt adioating, perfeot in balnnce.self lubricating Simple In oonatruotton, durable In material Rapid In grinding: a Rood Investment for any agricultural district Bole Agents for New Zealand I OPPENHEIMER & 00., CUHTOM-HOOBK-STREET, AnoKLAnri mas new botuchng society. INDUSTRIAL AND PROVIDENT PKRMA NBNT BUILDING, LAND AND INVKBT MKNT BOCIKTY OF AUCKLAND. 00BNEB 08 (JUKKN-BTRKKX and VVWi.fl LANS. All olasees are Invited to take np Investing Bharee, payments weekly, Interest romuners -'BVB. LOANS granted on soonrlty of Freehold or Leasehold Property lor tho purpose of buying, Building, &a. In sums of £20 to £5000, repay able—for every £100 advnnoed—at the following scale, by weekly, monthly, or uunrtorly lnstal mentßi— Bepaymenta Per Repayments Per extending over Week, extending over Week. b. d. D years n 1510 T years „ 8 3 i years _ 12 6 8 years „ 7 i 6 years - 10 6 10 years - 0 8 SPECIAL FACILITIKB are given to Bor rowers for paying off part prinoipal money and reducing weeKly payment, or the whole sum may be paid oil at any time—the Society grant- Ing LIBKRAI. DISCOUNT. OKOKGK FRASBK. Manager. "FUNCTION DRAPER XT WAREHOUSE. WILLIAM R. iiRIDGMAN Desires to Inform h!q onstomors, and purchasers of drapory stenerally. that he has vow com pleted extenEJvo improvements to his prsmloes, which have been much enlarged, and theteby much more convoniont for carrying on business, Be is now opening np and showing a large and yorlol Assortment of New Qoods suitable for the earning Season, and whloh will ba marked at much less tuan usual rutos. ae a lingo return will enable him tn Bell at a small rate of »roflt Ito following Lmos are Special Valno, and are continually being added to: SCO Fairs Now XSlansots, all sizes and makes, splendid value, from 10? Gil pair White TwlU Sheetings, 72 Inch, from Is yard Unbleached TwUl Sheeting, SO and 72 lnoli, IOJd, etc. X Large and Woll-nsHortod Stock of White OaIIOQS, all malcos. from 3}d Bplepdld Valug In Oroy Calicos, from 2Jd Black Velveteens (oxtra value), from 2b 3d yard Biannels In Great Variety—Kngliuh Makes from W; Colonial, aU prices Balance Bnmmer Prints and Dress Staffs at greatly reduced prices (to clear), from 3|d caSk-a and Cioata's 200-yard Reel. Is Gil dozen ALorgoandWeU-asaortod Stock of Blaok and Ooldrpashmereß and ffrench Merinos to be DO id QQfwp g. yriLLIAM K. BRUDGMAN.



Special Advertisements tA»T E E X OF THB v<\; GREAT I| CLEAKING.OUI7.SALB OF SL GHTLY DAMAGED GOODB AT » T INABURY « £10. 'S. £250 -worth ot REMNANTS to bo sold at HALF-PRI CE' Wa have made further Reductions on !tho General Stock in order to clear out a largo portion of Gooda SLIGHTLY DAMAGED. AN INSPECTION INVITKD, \, LINABURY & CO. 2O,t|ands2ofi, Queon Bt. Skeds i Sekds i Seeds i WT TTUBST g, pa Have Jdot Landed their NEvV BEA.SON'3 OLOVKItS, whJoh aro of Very Superior Quality. White Clovar, Ensrllah and Dutch Hell Clover. English and Amorloan Cowfjraaß, English and Amorloan Alsyke, Timothy, Trefoil, Rape Lucorno, Linseed, &0., &c, &0. Having purchased prior to the rise, enables thorn to offar the above at wholeaale rates. Inspection Invited. Also. Poverty Bay Rye Grass, machine dressed a splendid sample Bouthern Rye Grass. Italian Rye Grass Cocksfoot, Prairie Grass, Poa Prcßtensiß And all other kinds of Agricultural and Garden Seods. bonkdustl bonedust At tho City Council's desire, we have deter mined to olear out our present stock, and In order to do so qulokly, we have rodnoed the iirioaa for oash. Onr quotations are from £8 to £9, aooordlng to quantity and quality. In Stock : Bell's Celebrated 1 inch and Boneflour: Sydney 2 Btar and 3 Star Bonedust and Boneflour; and a limited quantity of Sop pet's local manufacture. We have also for Sale: 2 New Robey'a 6 and 8 h,p. Engines and Thrashers Coulter's Drills Kearriey's Combined Reaper and Mower Corneas' Patent H.P. Chaffoutter Also. Oorbett & Peel's manufacture Double-furrow Ploughs, well worth Ingpeotlon Single furrow Ploughs, Horse Hoes Cultivators, Rollers and Olod?ornshers Winnowers, Cheese Presses Cheeaomakers, Chaff-cutters (small) &C,, &0., &O. Also, Feed and Seed Oatß, Maizs, Barley, Flour, Sharps, Oatmeal. Chaff, Bran, Fowl Wheat, &c, &0.. &o. Prime Samples of Picked Table Potatoes GUANO. Peruvian, OhlendorfTs, Dissolved Peruvian Moldon Island, Huon Island, and other Che. mloal Manures. W. J. H™ & C 0) 101, QUEEN-STREKT, Auckland. 1882 50 OASE3 50 The first portion of tho NEW GOODB for this Season are now on view, amongst which are some Magnificent Links o»- BOYS AND YOUTHS" CHEAP SUITS. Parents and Guardians will find it advan tageous to mako an Karly Selection. ThoBTOOK of MEN'S OLOTHINGJS simply stiperb, and tho Variety op HATS, hoIMv, Shirts, blankets, flan nels, &0., second to none in Now Zealand. Aucklandßbanoh: QUEEN-STREET, Opposite Theatro Royal; Aim as albeht-street, Thames. J. FXTZSIMONS, Manager, OfIPQQPOQQCIQPQQOQQQQOPQQpQP EiHHHHHHH^HHfcH^E-iBHEiEHE-iE-iE-tE-iE-ifcH&HB



mHE LADIES OF AUCKLAND I. PROVINCE are rogneated to Inspect the BRAND SHOW of AUTUMN and WINrKR GOODS In the Window of the CITY HALL AROADB, QUHBN-BTRBKT, ON VIEW thlfl W>6k' GAELICK & CRANWELLj' Pkopkiktoks. /iBB2.\G> Qj-A N? a> Vy WINTEB GOODSX / NOW OPENING > ' . UP. NOVKLTIKB In Dress Goods NOVELTIES In Dress Trimmings NOVKLTIKB In Millinery NOVELTIES in Jackets and Dolmans NOVELTIES In Oretonneß NEW HATS, BONNKTS, FLOWERS NEW MKN'iS AND BOYS" CLOTHING NKW BLANKETS. FLANNELS, SCO. FUR AND BPRINU-TOP KID GLOVKB.



V GABLICK AND CKANWBLE, iN. CITY HALL AROADU, >W *J -Ny QORKN-STRBBT.yT • V 9* TV AUCKLAND. >^C& #\ i y/O WE NOW ALLOW ON ALL CASH PAYMENTS 5 PER OBNT. DISCOUNT on Furniture PER CENT. DISCOUNT on Oarpeta X PKR OKNT. DISCOUNT on Floor-olotha O PER CENT. DISCOUNT on Fnrnlshlna £ PBB OENT. DISCOUNT on Drapery [(foods 0 PKR CENT. DIBCOUNT sn Millinery X PKR OBNT. DISCOUNT on Clothing O PER CENT. DISCOUNT on all PnK)h«6B over One Pound, IN ANY DEPARTMENT AT THE CITY HALL AKCADB. ONH ONE PRIOBI CASH PRICE I EXTRA CASH DISCOUNT 11 ■ GrARLICK & CrANWELL, CITY HALL DRAPERY AND FURNISHING ARCADH. QuKKW-gTiiKET. Anoklantl. 1 0 is T RECEIVED Per May Queen and Coromandel, LARCH! SHIPMENTS OF BRUSSELS AND TAPESTRY (^ARPETS, (ALL NKW PATTKIINU). A Splendid Assortment of French and English CRETONNES. LACE AND NET CURTAINS In Great Variety, Brass and Ikon Bedsteads and Cots. iron venetian bunds (all colours). VERANDAH BLINDS, PERAMBULATORS. FURNITURE of every description In stock and mode to order,, inspkctton iNvrraD, T¥T INKS AND [TALL, Wholesale and Ketaii cabinetmakers and upholsterers, and oakpet warehousemen^ SHCmTLAND-STEHET.



Special Advertisements. rpHORNTON, SMITH AND FIRTH HATJS FOR SALE : ''Crown" Flonr, in saokß, KXfsand6o*B "Champion" „ „ ■• » "Cantab" „ ~ •• Sharps Bran Fowl Wheat Wharf Mill, Anokland. OMII'B AHD ARNOLD, ARCHITECTS, OLD CITY COUNCIL OHAMBSEB, Smokers, whose indulgence in the weed Is continuous, should uso ju«t such a cordial as UDOLPHO WOLFU'S tCHIKDAM AROMATIC Schwappb. for these palpable reasons: Tobacco drains toe salivary glandg and deranges the nervous organism. It Is a powerful flrug. that tells on the Btrongosc constitution. It invites dyspepsia, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, often bringing on tremora, and its fumeß impair the , vision. While this elixir may obviate these i results, it will certainly brace the Bystem against ts pernicious oll'eo*a



Young ladies and gentlemen about to start housekeeping will be relieved of a great deal of tronblo by calling on the undersigned. You can ascertain In a few mlnutoa the oost of furnishing a three, four, five, or six roomed house. Not only oan you form a oorrect estimate, but you oan see all the goods ready for delivery at the various prices. Garllok and Cranwell keep i larger stook of oarpeta and bedstoada than any other house in Auckland; also the greateßt varitty of hoaeehold furniture, most of Ft manufactured by thoir own workmen. Five per cent, discount allowed for ossh at time of purohaoe. New-comera are invited to stroll through the City Hall Arcade, and satisfy themselves by an Inspootloti of the stock of tho good value wo offer, and tho readiness we are enabled to exeoute orders entrusted to our care. —Onrllok and Urunwull, Clity Hall Aicade,- Advx.)