SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

hthct WATB-RlThlsKvenlnß. 5.11 HIGH WATBR| To . raorrowMornln g 2,35 SUNHKT.-Thlfl Kveping, 7.8 _ BUNRIBK.-To-mnrrow Morning, 6.20 g MOON'S AGM.-Full Moon, Fob- 3rd, 5.37 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY.

City of New STork, P.M.s.b., Cobb, from Sydney Columbia, sohooner, Con way, from Russell Fanny Kelly, ketch, Williams, from Whangaroa Ocean, sohooner. Cookflold, (ram Russell Gem, Bohooner, Poarse, from Ngungnrn Kaby, schooner, Lambert, from Russell

PROJECTED DEPARTURES.

London—Antaroß, loading Lavuka—Southern Croas, about 31st Melbourne and Southern ports — Rotorua,

Thursday Taranakl and South—Fenßuln, Tuesday . Russell, Whang won and Mongonai—Wellington or Glenelg, Monday Tauraaga-Glenelg or Wellington, Monday or Thursday . , Whangarei and Whangarel Heads — Argyla Saturday, and Argyle. Tuesday Waiwera and Rnsaell-lona, Saturday Waiweraand Whangarei-lona, Wednesday Mangawat- Fingal, Thursday aleroury Bay-Fuigal, Monday

VKSSWI.S KXPKOTKI) Pareora, ship, (Q 8.G.W.), from London; sailed Deoember 23 Oxford, ahip, (M.T.L.S.), from London; loading,

Nov. 8 Dnnoraig, barque, (J.L.8.V.), from London; Bailed Oct. 23 Crownthorpe, barque (M.X.8.D.), from London; sailed Oot. 31 Aloostla. barquo, (H.0.M.N.) from Liverpool, via Wellington; sallod.Novomber 7 Adamant, barquo \fh J,F.B,), from London; load- Arabolla, barqno, from London; loading Arnold Yon Blppon, barquo, from New York j sailed Ootober 31 „ ■„■■-., Cabarfeldh, barqne (B.Q.M.X), from Now York; sailed November 1 Kndfleld, baraue, from New York A. T. Stailkneoht, barque, from Now York;

loading Gwendoline, barqne (J.H.L.G.), from New Yorlr, via Oatnaru; sailed August 30 Kermalo, barque, bom Sidney, via NewGastlo Annabel), brig, from Sydney Itaror Pratt, Brigantlne, from Dunadin Ada 0, Owen, brigantlne, from Danodln Ketelle, sohooner, from Dnncdln Pirate, sohoonor, from Hnahino Atlantic aohoonor, from Rarotonga Bslle Brandon, gobooner, from the Islands Brno, schooner, from the Islands

Wlnwards Coastwise. —Four Sisters, from Mahurangi,with 36 tons firewood; Porsever anoe, from Waihekty with 250 bushels ot shlnglo; Columbia, from Russell, with 73 tons coal; Tevlot, from Great Harrier, with 525 ft ships* timber; Ocean, from Itußsell. with 50 tons manganese; Lagoon, from Mercury Bay, with 21,0U0(t baulk timber; Gem, from Ngu ngnru, with 32,100 ft timber; Watohman, from Coromandel, with I'ifiMt sawn timber; Buby, from Rusbbll, with 'iO tons manganese; Sovereign ot the Sees, for Fort Fitzroy, with 35 tons firewood, 21 sacks gum ; Meroury,!from Tuaa, with 23,000 ft timber; Kata, from Manala, With 27,900 ft limber.

The yacht Secret, wMoh was driven ashore on Latrobe Island, oorne? Inlet, during a n eater)y sale, on December 28th, has been got off the beach and taken round to Port Albert. Temporary repairs will bo effected there to brine her on to Melbourne, where she will be pat in good repair, —"Australian Shipping News."

The e.s. Maogregor's hour of sailing for Wnl tara to-morrow (Wednesday) has been altered to S p.m.

OnTWABDS COASTWI3B. — Carolina, for Barrier; Sisters, for Omaha; Perseverance, for Waiheki.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Penguin, &8., Kdie, from the South Dorcy Pratt, brlgautine, Goodman, from Grey mouth

DEPARTURE.

Bawena, s.s., Scott, for Wanganui and way ports

The Union Co.'s steamer Penguin arrived from the South ai 6.30 a.m. to day, with 111 half oases fruit, 11 kegs and 11 boxes butter, 5 hhds., II packages machinery, 1 box gold, 101 hides, and S oases. ; BUo was to return South at 5 o'clock this afternoon.

The steamers Hannah Molcau and Laila Kookh were to leave this, afternoon, tha former for Baglan and the latter for Waltara,

The Northern Cn.'a steamer Macgregor was expected to arrive from Waltara this afternoon. She is announced to return thither to-morrow.

The Northern Co.'s Bteatner Bowena left at 5 p.m. yoiterday for Wanganui and intermediate ports, with 150 nests drain pipej, 3 head cattle, and several paseengers.

A great many neuralgic aiseases. when aggro vated, become spasmodic and it is In this part ticular stage or type of the disease, that the neat molUfler, known as Udolpo Wolfe's Schiedam Aromatlo Schnapps, asserts Its supremacy. It soothes the nerves by its gently diffusive proper ties, allays irritation by Its quieting efforts, and toning the system, strengthens the organs, solas to'porfoot functional «?■ ' '

Mail Notice.

Mails will umbi is under.—

». THIS DAY. For Russell, Itawakawa, and Hoklanga, per Rotorua, at I p.m.. „. For Russell, Kawjikawa, Wangaros, and Mongonui, per Gtonelg, at 4.30 p.m. For Tauranga, Ohinemuto, and Opotikl, per Wellington, at i.30 p.m. For Whangaroi Heads, Walpu. Whangarel, and Mangapai, per Argyle, at 1.30 p.m. Per b.s. City of New York, as follows I— For Sandwich Islands, United States of America. Canada, British Columbia. Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at S p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Korope, at S p.m.

For money orders registered letters, and newspapers, at 3.30 p.m. Late letters bearing an extra fee of sixpence. In addition to the postage, will be received; by the Mail Agent on board the Steamer up to the time of galling. This mail will be due in London, on Mon day, 13th Maroh, 1882.

Wkdnesday, Ist Febrnary. For Waltara, etc., per Macgrogor, at 8 a.m. ; For Talrua, per Palm, at 9 a.m. Tor Thames, per Rotomahana, at 10 a.m. For Tahiti, par SyoU, at 11 a.m. For Talrua, per Moroury, at 11 o.ui. tfor Wolworn, Wangarei Heads, am. Wangarol, per lona, at 3 p.m. For Tauranga, Gisborno, and Napier, per Oretl, at 3 p.m. For Tryphona, per Sororoign of tho Sons, Rt Ip.m. * For Lovuka and Suva, por Soiithecn Cross, at Ip.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Thursday, 2nd February, Por s.B. Rotortla, as follow :— For India, China, Japan, Medlteranean Ports, and Continent of Kuropo, at 10 a.m. For Gisborne, Napier, Southern ports, Aus tralian Colonies, and United Kingdom, via Suez and BrtarUal, for lotters, &c, specially so prepaid and addressed, at 11 a.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 10 a.m.

For late letters till 11.20 a.m. For Norfolk Island and Now Caledonia, p«r Derron, at 11 a.m. S. B. BIBS, OhleC Postmaster, Ohlef Pcet-ofßoo. Anokland,

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

Jakuary Si, 1882.

Thoatro Royal—Caiy's Juvenile Pirates, 8 p.m. Lome-street Hall—Bent and Baoholdor'a Christy Minstrels, 8 p.m.

Provincial Grand Lodge of Now Zealand, 3,C. —Maoonlo Hall, 7.30 p.m. Newmarket Hall—Romucra Annual Social Gathering ot Band of Hope, 6 30 p.m.

Birth.

WBLCH.-On January 21st, at her roaldonce, Cambria Lodge, Onehungo, t!io wife of Francis O. Welch of a sos.

Death.

H AMUS.-On 31«t January, 1882, at Uovonnort, Nol-th Shore, Mary Kllzabeth Harris, aged 62 roars. The funeral will leave the North Shore Ferry at 2 p.m. to-morrow (Weflneeuay), for St. Stephen's oometory, Parnell.

KI33UNO.—On 30th January, Stolla ltoatrloo, infant daughter ot Mr. and Mrs-. F. Elstltng. MOONEY?—On January 30, at his parents' residence), OnohUnga, James, oldost son ot James Mooney; aged 1 yehra and 6 months,— Wanganul papers plottto bopy.

MYI.K3.--On January 31st, at the residence t)( bis parents, Hobson-street, l'oaftlas Henry, aged 9 weeks, younmest son of J. P. and a I. Mylea. The funeral will take place tomorrow, leaving late resldenoe at 11 a.cs. Friends re speotfully invited*

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

TUESDAY, JANUARY 31, 1882.

For the causa that lacks atsiilauca, for the wrong that needs reslstanc Tor tin future in the distance And the good that we can do,

A forcible illustration of tho excitability of the French temperament is afforded by the Ministerial crisis which at present pre vails in Franca, and more particularly by the effects which that crisis has produced in the money market. Any one who has witnessed the frantic demonstrations at a political meeting in Paris, or watched the insane antics which accompany the tran saction of business on the Bourse, when matters are in their normal condition, will learn without surprise that such a very ordinary occurrence as the resignation of a Ministry has led to a serious panic in Parisian circles, which has extended to the money markets of the Continent, and in consequence has involved in ruin many engaged in speculation in stocks and fui.ds, including a number of members of the London Stock Exchange. M- Garr.betta, the leader of the French Ministry, having suffered a defeat on a question of electoral reform, has tendered his resignation to President Grdvy, and the latter gentleman has entrusted the formation of anew Cabinet to M. Freyceint. That a "crisis " so simple should have led to such a serious monetary panic proves the collective instability of the French character, and their extreme proneness to be swayed by the passion or panic of the moment. To the sober British mind, the panic in the present case would have been explicable had the question on which the I Ministry were defeated been one affecting some vital right of the people, or had it 1 been either the result -or the occasion of a popular agitation. No such thing appears to have been the case; on the contrary, the proposed legislation was simply a {pet idea of Gambctta's, which was not looked on with favour by tho . Press, and which did not evoke any large share of public interest. The anxiety, it would Bcern, had its foundation in the fear that Gambetta might use his im mense power over the multitude to incite them to active demonstrations in favour of his views, and the apprehension (warranted by the past history of French political agita tions) that disorder and revolution might result. Happily, the popular excitement has not been aroused, the political crisis is likely to be averted by regular and con stitutional means, and the monetary panic has almost entirely subsided, Still, the fact that such widespread commotion has been produced by such a trifling cause gives warning of the continued insecurity of French politics, and ot the disastrous con* sequences which would ensue to the whole of Europe if the smouldering volcano- of French revolutionism should be awakened to activity.

A SICSNIFICAHT sign of the times is to be i found in the fact that the Roman Pod till' has lately shown considerable anxiety to cultivate friendly relations with Britain and Germany, the two great Protestant Powers. It denotes the utter collapse of the Papal claim to temporal dominion, and its full significance will be appreciated on contrast ing the present with the former state of matters. Only a feWjhundred years ago the Popes, whose powers and rights have descended in unbroken succession to Leo XIII., arrogated complete control of the kingdoms of the earth; they compelled a German Emperor, to .perform penance, by standing barefoot and half-naked in the frost and snow of winter; and they (in word only, this time), deposed English monarchs from their earthly throne and forbade them I all participation in a heavenly one. It says 1 something for Protestant Christianity that the advances of the Pope have been most favourably received by Prince Bismarck and by her Majesty's Government. Toler ant in their strength, these Governments concede their friendship, despite the fact that the Pope's pretensions to the temporal power remain uncancelled. Kecent cable despatches revive the rumour that the Pope contemplates leaving Home - the latest asylum assigned him by report being under British protection on the island of Malta. There is probably no foundation in fact tor such rumours, which, indeed, the Pope took occasion lately to contradict most emphatically. Still, the transference of the Papal See from Home to some more congenial spot has doubtless been the sub ject of anxious deliberation from time to time by Leo XIII. and his cardinals. To ! remain in Borne under the altered con ditions prevailing there must be very gall ing to Bis Holiness, who rightly enough sees that he would be more comfortable in almost any other city in the civilised world than he is in his present situation, But on the other hand, the removal of the seat of tho church from the seven-hilled city means such a relinquishmcnt of the power arising' from' old association and tradi tion, that it is quite natural they should hesitate before resolving on such a step. Sooner or later, however, we believe such a stop will be rendered inevitable, and when taken it will mark a

new epoch in the history of Eomanism, Thenceforth the Romish Church will take her stand simply as a religious organisa tion; her political power, now in rapid decline, will have entirely disappeared; and deprived of the laat shred or empire, she mar at last come to own .that her king dom ia not of this world. In the spiritual sphere she, is yet capable of'great activity And wide Usefulness, if her leadicg eccles iastics only show that they can read aright the spirit of the times, and shape their policy in accordance therewith;

and deprived of the laat shred of empire, she mar at last come to own .that her king dom is not of this world. In the spiritual sphere she, is yet capable of'great activity And wide Usefulness, if her loadicg eccles iastics only show that they can read aright the spirit of the times, and shape their policy in accordance therewith; *■" ' — It may interest our readers.and give them an insight into the difficulties of catering for their entertainment, to narrate how the measures "ye have taken each year to supply a full account of the regatta on the day of its occurrenco are executed. Though very successful iii previous years, thdy were specially so yeaterday, and we do not hesitate to claim our report ot last night as a feat that is unparalleled i& the annals of colonial journalism. Up to half-past four j o'clock hi the afternoon seventeen tares hid been started. These racfiii tiaverscd various courses en -ft,n expanse of water twenty-five mites in length. Yet we succeeded not Only in reporting starts and finishes, but in tracing the fcovetuonts in every race, min'iCety describing the courses ol tlic great sailing contests round Tiri Tiri, although the leading1 vessels did not round 'the North Head until after five o'clock at nighh This report of the regatta, giving the results and positions of every cno Of the seventeen races up to half-past fonr o'clock in the afternoon, was issued in the city bef oro five o'clock, In its com pilation there werecugaeed eeVen reporter j, twelve carrier pigeon^ a steam launch, and a waterman's boat plying about the harbour all day. There were sbut to tho StMi Office from the Scene H>? tho regatta 63 separate d'espafthca shewing the progress of the s'ivejal event»,and these had to bo dove tailed together iv their proper places, Only one message miscarried—that by a pigeon liberated near Tiri Tiri, which did not turn np until dark. The report occupied over six columns of our paper. The " Herald " report this rooming makes no attempt to giVo anything beyond the bal'O results 0*: tll6 races; its longth being only, e^ual to two of the Star columns. It is right to acknowledge tho assistance and readiness to oblige shown by the several members of com nf tee on board the flagship, cnpecially Mr Mitcholson, Captain M caring, and Mr M. Niccol, the umpires. To Mr R. K. Isaacs, the secretary, we are certainly in no way indebted ; that gentleman's chief duty during tho day was apparently tho onerous one of ordering away the STAIt boat whenever it hauled alongside the Slag ship for " copyi" Finding the reporter* persistcHt iv dirtictiug the waterman to lie alongside, the zealoUs secretary invoked Captain Adanißon's aid, who ■ reluctantly ordered the boatman away, expressing regret at the same time, to our reporter*, that he had no option but to carry out any request by tho secretary, having placed the ship entirely at the disposal of the Regatta Committee. '1 here is a rule which prohi bits boats from lying alongside the flag ship. This, however, is morely intended to keep the ship cleat1 of w&tertnbn touting for fares: bftt neither ill the Auckland nor sub urban regattas has tho rule ever been en forced against the press boat. Tho water man fortunately had judgment enough not to go beyond hail; ofherwise the in structions might have seriously broken down ourarrangemetets, As It was, however, except for causing the reporters a little annoyance, this potty display of authority was of no par ticular consequence, and as it appeared to afford tho secretary's vanity an iutenso gratification, so harmless an amusement may bo excused on the ground of his youth and inexperience. Happily, it 1s very rarely iudced that we have to complain of a want of courtesy to the Press by gentlemen who havo been entrusted with the carrying out of a public affair. Captain John McKenzie, who performed the onerous duty of starter {deserves a word of praise. Thanks to nia knowledge of the necessity for sending each race off punc tually at the hour named, there was none of the usual muddle which ensues upon tho mixing of the boats contoating two or three separate event*. The protest against the scow Makarau and the open boat Eluio will bo heard at Mr Mitcheleon's office, Lower (Jueen-strcct, on Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock, The owners are requested to be in attendance. Two boy,s named Percy Freer and John Doyle, were arrested this afternoon by Ser geant Martin, on a charge of peach-stealing. Both boys are old offenders and well known to the police.

Scarlet fever in Onehunga appears to havo assumed a much more malignant form —fire deaths having occurred during the past week from its effects. The whole of its victims so far are children under ten years of age. A eon of Captain Dale's, a fine boy, aged ten, succumbed to the disease tbis morning.

Tenders were opened to-day at the oflico of MrVV. F. Hammond, A.KJ.B.A., archi tect, Sbortland and Queen-streets; for tho erection of a cottage in Brunswick-street, ns follows :-Brabazon (accepted), £143; T. Williams, £154; Hittchinson, £16G; Salis bury, £179; Currie, £180; Alex. Kcyes, £198.

Tho number of children of St. Paul's school who shared the pleasures ot tho Sun day-school picnic in the Domaio, was 276" St. Mark's amounted to 150, aud was under the care of Mrs Hoy wood. St. Peter's, Unehunga, 78, was marshalled by Rev. Mr Mulgan and Mr Iliitchinson. It was esti mated that 1,200 children of the various schools were on the ground. Mr Jones was the superintendent ot St. Matthew's.

At a meeting of creditors in the estate oi Edward Shephard, late of the Royal Mai! Hotel, Ngaruawahia, the liabilities wcresel down as £75313*, and the assets £295, not, however, available.

The Government have contributed £100 to the cost of the culvert on tho Cambridge- Hamilton road, destroyed by the late rains.

To the Iditor : Sir,—l beg leave to cor rect a statement which appeared in your issue of Saturday, concerning the Grand Orange Lodge Mcoting, Tho four lodges mentioned were suspended for breach of obligation. The Grand Lodge was formally adjourned sine die, and did not break up in confusion as stated. There is no "dead lock." The society is working as usual, minus these four lodges.—l am,&c,Thomas William Dunn.

The members of the senior Bible class and congregation of the Primitive Methodist chapel, Franklin Road, held a picnic yes terday at Kast Tamaki. The trip was made in the s.s. Coromandel, and about 200 persons took advantage of the excursion. The parties enjoyed themselves immensely in innocent recreation, and after a fine day's sport returned to town in good time. The profits of the trip will be devoted to paint ing and improving the church.

Mr H. H. Smith exhibited his interesting panorama of views last evening in the Albert Hall to a gratified audience. Scenes in England, France, Ireland, America, and New Zealand, were represented, with de scriptions by the exhibitor, Some of the choicest views of the Rotorua and I'otoma hana lakes were reflected and explained, also water-falls, and photos of Tawhiao, Rewi, and Paul, from Pulrnan's gallery, Shortland-strecfc. The scenes were much enjoyed, and interspersed with music. Mr Smith promised to repeat his exhibition at an early date, of which due notice will bo given.

The annual picnic of All Saints' Sunday school was held in Mr Campbell's paddock, Ponsonby, and attended by 250 children under the care of the Superintendent, Mr Harkneas Hamilton, of the firm of Hamilton Bros. The Rev, E. N. Bree, Mrsßree, and Rev. Mr Davis were present, also tho able s'aff of teachers, who did their best in making the children happy. Games of va rious kinds were indulged in, and about 100 volumes of moral and religious books were presented to the scholars by Mr Bree, with words of eneonragement. Some time ago, a call was made upon the parishioners in aid of the school treat, and the result was a liberal response, Refreshments in abun dance were provided, and the children evi dently enjoyed themselves to the fullest extent.

To the Editor: Sir,—Now that the warm weather has fairly set in, complaints are rife concerning the insufficient water supply for horses and other cattle. There is scarcely one place in Queen-street' where tired and jaded horses working in the hot , sun can quench their thirst. In Melbourne, Sydaey, and other place?, ample provision is made hi the. shape of good substantial water-troughs. How is it that Auckland is behindhand in this necessary public want ? If two or three wooden troughs, similar to tho one in Freeman's Bay, were placed in prominent position in Queen and other important streets, the want would be greatly alloviated. Tho one at the corner of Grey and Upper Queen streets is inadequate for all requirements, — Yours, &c, A,A,

The usual quarterly communication of the Provi»oial Grand Lodge for the North Island of JMow Zealand will be hold this evening at taa Frenmttsona' Hall, PrinCca stroet.

. The •' Church Gazette," says:-Letters clatod January II have beon rccQlved from St. Barnabas' College, Norfolk Island, tho head quarters of tile Melanesittn Mission. There were |183 Melanesiau boyq, forry.two girls, and (oh children at St. Barnabas'.; and the staff of teachers wan inconveniently small t in the absence of the Bishop (at Florida), the Roy, C, and Mrs Bice (in Auckfa-nd), tho Revs. R. B. Coiniiis and A. Penny .(iu England), and Mr and Mrs Lister Kaye (in Australia). Sore eyes had been prevalent, [the Rev. $. Pahaer beinc: anlong the suffefcerß. Miss A Maunsell and Miss White Were giving great help with the girls, teaching writing to the 2nd aUd 3rd classes, and fiiviqgletaons in singing. The general health oi all at St. Barnabaa' was good, The report presented at thfe anliual meet ing 6E tho Hew Zealand Timber Company to-day. shows a very profitable twelve months' business The company haVa cleared the sum of £9,460, Adopting a wise policy fora young company, the direc tors resolved to sfengthen their position by passing the largo sum of £BQOO to reserve fund, and also the sum of £1250 to a depre ciation account tp meet any contingencies. Tho timber itdu-try is one "of the most im portant to Auckland; it is, therefore, very gratifying to find that, at presout, tho trade is a profitable one to those whs have enter prise enough to engage iv it on a large sea le. The report of tho Uiiion Sash and Door Company reached us too late this afternoon to review its figures, but they are giyen in, aupther column, and show that the oldest Auckland Company sugared in \\\is business is holding its own in ;i gigantic and growing trade, The Churcii Ga^etto Id to hand with its usual budget t!f diocesan iutclliaouce. It announces that the rfev. R. A. Hall, M. A., has resigned the charge of the Howick dis'» tiict, which he has held since 1800, with the intention of reUtrniafj tp Ireland ; and the Bishop haa.BttcCpted hia resignation, to take effect on March 31, The itev. D. W. Jonkinson, M. A., who has kindly minis tered to our people of the Great South Road district since January Ist, has informed the Bishop of his intention to leave New Zoalnud for Europo by the Sau Francisco mall of March, To the Editor: Sir,—You are asked in last Friday's Star if you could tell Mr Beaslcy, of BurJeigh-strect, the largest weight of potatoos that has been fti-own from a pound of seed in the Auckland dis trict Si!', In 180*6, daJJtain Nowall, now of tile AX. force, dug lip 161bs of good marketable potatoes, and about a score of small ones, from one ordinary-sized potato. Oh tho same allotment iv Cambridge East twolve onions weighing lllb», were All gvotfii without manure. Thb above appeared in tho Southern Cross newspaper. The writer said the onions i Spoke for the land in Cambridge, and tho editor made the remark that ho never know onions to speak before, but he knew tliey j caused those to weep that peeled them, On ! the same allotmeut a boy was born, who Weighed 11 Jibs without his clothes, I think, Mr Kditor, Cambridge can stand a show, V/ith any other part of the world, for animal and vegetable productions,—Youre, &c, Pkrga, Cambridßo, •

To-morrow oveniug the choir of the AuCKland Band of Hope Union will pay a visit to Otahuhu Band of Hope, on tho oc- I casiou cf the annual meeting of tho latter, when "John Tregenowcth.his Mark," will be performed, and no doubt there wfll be a hirgo gathering, as the reputation of the service rendered by this choir under the conductorsb.ii) of Mr Tudehopc has reached the whole of the colouies. Mr Gi Homus will read the connecting narrative. The choir leaves Auckland at 4.30 p.m. in 'busses, and should the weather be lino, no doubt ii large number of friends will also accompany the performers, the fare boiiiK reasonable and the moon near' the full; The journey will no doubt be very pleasant in such good company. Members of tho choir wishing friend* to accompany them aro requested to obtain tickets from Mr Tudohopo, Upper Quecu-strcct, not later than noon to-morrow ; that is to say, [all who have not given in their names.

Some little excitement was occasioned at about one o'clock to-day by the currency of a rumour that an extensive strike had taken place amongst the men eracloycd at the Union Bash and Door Company's manufac tory, Mechanic's Bay. From enquiries made of the manager, Mr C. P. Murdoch, it would appear that the company has recently received some very large order.*, which to fulfil would necessi tate a lengthening of the working hours. The carpenters wore required to work ten hours a day, receiving "a time" as re muneration for their extra two hours' labour. A number of the hands demanded "a tiino and a quarter," and thin being refused about twenty car penters went on strike at mid-day to-day. Mr Murdoch informed our reporter that the remuneration offered Was in accor dance with tho custom of the trade here, and expressed his determination not to oiler an increase. AH strikes are unfortunate, damaging both the industry in which they occur and tho workmen, Wo hope there fore that the present one will be sposdily brought to an arnica bio termination The men themselves, who were interviewed by another reporter, say that they were asked to work till 8 p.m. each even ing at the ordinary wages, and that they refused to consent unless time and a quarter were allowed them for the extra hours. They also allege that there arc more than 100 of them out on strike, and that Mr Herbert (overseer) tried to coerce them into compliance by threatening that the mill would be closed nuleas they gave in. The annual festival of Mount Albert Wcslcyan Sunday-school was held at Fern dalo yesterday, when a large gathering of children and friends assembled. After the usual afternoon sports and a sumptuous tea, the Christinas Tree was the centre of attraction. A marquee had been erected, under which was a trco laden with choice gifts, numbering nearly 300, in value from 12a (id downwards. .The superintendent, Mr Garlicl;, before distributing the gifts to the scholars, thanked tuoao friends who, by their subscriptions, had enabled them to purchase such a larjjc variety of articles, also the friends and teachers, who had industriously worked for a month past in producing various kinds of fancy needlework, &c. All were well rewarded by witnessing the pleasure it afforded the children of all ages on re ceiving their articles, some of which were for uso and others for ornament. The hearty cheers given by the scholars before they dispersed was an evidence of how they appreciated the care taken to mako it what it proved to be—one of the most successful festivals connected with tho rising district of Mount Albert.

Professor Cailliau will open an elemental y singing class this evening in the Christians' Meeting House, corner ol Cook and Hobson streets. Terms etc, aro notified by adver tisement.

Mr E. G. Sandall is about to start busi ness as general butcher near Epsom store, having purchased the business of Mr Dando. From the general good-will of the people in Epsom towards Mr Sandall we predict a good local trade for him.

A picnic of teachers and scholars of the Newton Congregational Sunday-school was ' held on January 31st, at Mr Washer's resi dence, Mangero, kindly given for the pur pose. A beautiful day, an ample supply of excellent provisions, and about eighty smiling faces were thrown into the affair. The start was made from the school-room, in nine conveyances, about 9 a.m., and after a pleasant hour's drivc,the grounds of Mr Washer were reached. Cricket, croquet, arid other popular, games passed the time very ploasautly till the signal for the first spread was given. The cloth was laid under peach trees, which were well laden with luscious fruit, and it was but the work ot a minute to divest the bend ing boughs of their welcome treasures, Mr Charles Spragg, sen., announced grace, which was heartily sung by all present, and a iierco onslaught was made on the eatables supplied. An afternoon, long to be remem bered for its charming pleasures, only too rapidly passed away, when the bugle call was heard for tea. Several speeches, spark ling with pleasantry and innocent fun, how amused as the sharpened appetites gradually were satisfied. After more sports keenly enjoyed, with large quantities of excellent fruit intervening, three cheers were givon for the kind entertainers, and the cavalcade again started towards Auckland, arriving at Newton at a convenient hour. All present enjoyed the day thoroughly, and agreed that, if possible, the picnic should become an annual institution in connection with the school. s

THE FATAL FIRE AT CHRISTCHURCH.

Pull Particulars,

(SY TBkEtJHAPH.—PKESS ASSOCUTIONi)

oHAlß*CatJttOtt,ltoilddy. Tilts morning it iildst painfitl Catas trophe happened at WBat Eyreton> by which a farmer naiue'd Henry Simpson, who had resided there foi- some time, and was res pected as v most hard-workingi irtdttstrlous mans was depß.ved of his wliole family. Tile harvest being in full swing, Simpson, who had reaped his own cropi was ftesii'ous of asaistihjj Ms neighbours, for which pur pose he rose early and had his breakfast His wife got lip at the same time to prepafe the meal, and Having seieu Mm ofVj it iVould seerii that sl*.o I.etirod to rest again. At any rate, nothing further was known as to what bappohed till Mr J. Solders, foreman plate layt r, who waa on the line between West Eyreton and Swannanoa, saw a hotiSo burn ing, and, passing Simpson, told him that it must be his house. Simpson immediately returned, -reaching the house about 9.30 a.m., when he found it a complete wreck, He looked about for his wife and children, and thought they had gone somewhere, and he remained in this expectation for some time, The iire was mill burning at 10 a.m. when other neighbours came round; and the police at Oxford being informed of the iire, Sergeant McDonald proceeded tb the site, and was met by Constable Johnston from KAiapoi; Seven Bodies Ciukked to Cinders. In the mbantimo (he truth had dawned on Simpson and the neighbours, and the poor man was in a great state of agony. The sergeant and constable at once began to examine the ashes for some traces of the family, and having found the position of the bedstead thesy were not long in dis covering the charred remains of the wife and one (it tho children, and by dint of perseverance found tho bodies of all the children. The body of the woman, who was 28 years of age, was first found, Tho limbs were completely burnt from the trunk! tho head being totally destroyed, and all the children were in a similar state, their bodies being reduced to a very small size, with the exception of a baby about three-months old, whose body was not co much charred, but the head, hands, and feet wcro shrivelled up. with the heat. Tho house consisted of iivb upstairs arid two downstairs rooms, besides a lean-to, and the children were asleep in one of the upstairs rooms when Simpson left the house in the morning. The room in which Simp son, his wife,, and the baby slept waa im mediately below this one. Thus the dis covery of ilie bodies in ttcarly otic position may bo accounted for. To show to what a ~tate tho bodies had been reducod, the whole i 'en when re covered from the ashes wore laid on a sack and covered over with another, The following are tile narnoa of the deceased !—Margaret, aged 28, the mother; Matilda, 7 yeara; Thomas John, BJ; Sarah, 4* ; Anne Jane, 2j; William, 1J; Henry, 3 months. Okioin of the Firf. It is supposed when Simpson left the house, in company with some two or three men who were working with him, that Mrs Simpson returned to her bedroom, and that meanwhile the fire in the kitchen grate blew out of it, and sot fire to the kitchen and staircase. It is evident from the posi tion of the bodies that the children were all. burnt in their beds, and that Mrs Simpson must have been burnt in her own room, while she was shielding her baby from tho devouring flames. The baby's body and her own breasts am tho least chafl'ed by the lire, and tho body was found near to her. The house was insured ill the London, Liverpool, and Globe Insurance Company for £100 and £25 on the furniture, tt was a new building, and Simpson had been improving it constantly since its erection, There is a very general feeling of sympathy for Simpson in bis very severe and sad bereave ment! An inquest will be held before Mr Whitford, at tho Crest Hotel, to-morrow.

SPORTING NEWS.

HELEHSVILLK KACES,

In our last improssion we gave the results of such of the events as had taken placo up till half-past three o'clock. Tho remaining races were as follow :—

Helensville Handicap, of 60sovs., with a sweepstakes of Saovs. j amount of sweep for second horse. Distance, two miles. Mr Dibble's b m N. or Mi.asrcd.Gst 71bs (White) 1 Mr W. Adams's br h Lara, aged, 7st Gibs {T. Taylor) 2 Mr W. Butlor'a chf Flora, syrs, Ost (B. McGee) .„ 3 Kandwick and Maori were scratched. Betting: sto 1 on Lara. Dibble's mare won easily. There were 247 on the totali sator, of whom 67 woro on the winner. Publicans' Purse Handicap, of 15 sow. Distance, If miles, Second horse to save his stake. Mr E. Mitchelson'a b h Vampire, 4yrs, 6st7lbs(Bycrs) 1 Mr D. White's b h Maori, aged, Sst 4lbu (Clark), 7lbs over 2 Mr W. Butler's eh f Flora, sst 121bs ... 3 Betting eveu ou Maori, and 2 to 1 on Vampire. Maori, which carried 71 bs over weight, broke down suddenly while leading the way, and when just about a quarter of a mile from the finish. The result was that Vampire won by a length, and Flora was only third by a head, it is said that just before the race started a bookmaker took £10 worth of tickets on the totalisator on Vampire. There was a total of 181 on the totalisator, 96 of which were on Vampire. The dividend was Bs. Dis satisfaction was loudly expressed at Maori's running, and motives were freely imputed SETTiiEEs' Handicap, of £20. Distance, 1J miles. For horses the bonafule pro perty of settlers residing north of the Whan. Second horse saves his stakes. Mr Dibblo's b m N. or M., 9st (T. Hod .son 1 Mr H. H. Shakespeat's ehg Harkaway, aged, 9st (T. C.ark) 2 Mr E. Mitchelson'a Vampire, 4yrs.Bst, slbs (T. Taylor) 3 Mr J. McLeod's blk g Native (syrs., 7ot, McGee) also ran. Tui was scratched, Dibble's maro won by a longth. Consolation Handicap of lOeovs. Dis tance, 1 mile. Native, 7»t 1 Flora, 7st 121bs 2 Juno, Bst 51bs 3 Lottery (7st) also ran, JVativo had the race in hand from the start, but was raced up the straight by Flora. The visitors then returned to the train, many of them going on to Helcnsville to patronise Paddy Doran's variety troupe.

fBY TBLEGKAPH.— PIjESS ASSOCIATION.]

GREYMOUTH RACES.

GRH.YMOUTH, Monday. The following are the weights for tho Greyinouth Jockey Club Handicap :—On Dit, 9st. 121bs. ; Talent Oat. slbs,; York, 9st. 21bs.; Field, Oat. 21bs.; Longlands, Bst. 121bs. ; Greyhound, Sat. 121b5.; Whcel-of- Fortune, B*t lOlbs. ; Rawdon, Bst. 91bs. ; Satellite, 7st 121bs, ; Koso, 7st. 121b5.; Klliu King, 6"st. 121b5.; Doncastcr, 6st. 81ba. Whalebone, Gst Slbs.

TARANAKI ANNIVERSARY RACES.

NEW PLYMOUTH, tlrsday. Tho following nominations were received last evening :—

Takanaki Jockey Club Handicap.— Randwfck, Blue Gown, Volunteer, Fleur De Lyß, Wilberforce, Grand Duchess, Piecatorius, Slander filly, Dan, Orphan, Aurora, Bon Jour, Larry, Scotch Mist, Artful Joe, Taipo, Norinanby, Waitiora, Venture, Ely, Taxation.

Autumn Handicap.—Randwick, Blue Gown, Volunteer, Fleur de Lys, Wilber force, Grand Duchess, Piecatorius, Slander lilly, Dan, Orphan, Aurora, Bon Jour, Larry, Scotch Mist, Izaac Walton, Artful Joe, Normanby, Waitiora, Venture, Ely, Ecclcston, Taxation.

Steeplechase.—Lady Grey, Monk, Satanella, Hard Times, Sunray, Titorangi, Catcu'eni, Bulloye. Kati[O, Totara, Czar, and Grey Momus.

Hurdle Race,—Lady Groy, Monk, Sunray, Catch'em, JKatipo, Totara, and Grey Momus.

County Handicap.—Lady Urey, Bon Jour, KcsolutioD, Larry, Scotch Mist, Izaak Walton, Nortuanby, and Waitiora, Taxation.

WELLINGTON RACES.

WELLINGTON, Monday. The following weights were declared to. night :— Hurdlb Handicap (First day).— Agent, 12&t.; Clarence, Hat. lOlbs.; General, 9at, 21ba, j Totara, 9at,; Scruti neer, 9st. ;.

FLYIN& SHAKES HANDICAP.— Sir Modred, fist. 41b«i; On Dit, Bst, lOlbs.j Somnus, Bsti ?lbs,j Grand Duchess, Sat. t Luna, 7ati 121b5.; Hilda, tst. 81bs. j Mis chief, 7st. 71bs. J Fleur de Lys, 7s', ?lbs. j Slander filly, ?st. 9lbs>} Mavis, 7at, j Hinetttoa. fst.} Magnolia, ost. 121bSt} Speculation) 6st> Wellington, this day. WELLINGTON KAdING QhXJIS, The ractt meeting, so far as spdrt is con cerned, promises to be the beat efer held, but the Club liaVe been very unfortithate, The recent interpretation of the Lotteries Act haft prevented tiiefh frotii obtaining a fair price fdr their privileges, and in the case of the liduox booths $h«sy win probably haVB to refund the purchase money. The Colonial Secretary has authorised the police authorities to permit hold&rs of privileges from the. Wellington EacingCltib to vend liquors on the racecourse on Thurs day and Friday.

CURE GOLDMINING COM PANY.

AN extraordinary meeting of shareholders in tho Uuro Gold-Mining Company was held to-day, to consider the present financial condition of the company; with a view tore* forming the company with increased Capital, or of winding up and disposing of the property; There were about a do«en share holders' present; Mr Batger occupied the chair.

Some discussion took place On the position of the company, and it was djteed, on die motion of Mr Picket** seconded by Mr Mgrpeth, that the directors be authorised to lot the ground below the 400 feet level to the Thames Deep Level Company, on the term's prdposcd by the company. It was also decided} on the motion of Mr Foughey, seconded by Mr Turtle, that the Cure Company amalgamate with the Golden Crown, on the basis of 2,000 new Golden Crown shares being issued and allotted pro rata to the shareholders of the Cure Com pany, and that tho directors bo authorised to give eit'ect to the above resolutions.

The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to the chairman, secretary,, and directors.

CONCERT AND BALL AT ONEHUNGA.

This double entertainment (under the auspices of the Waiuka Cricket Club) took place last night (Monday) in the Masonic Hall, The area and gallery were both well filled, and the audience fashionable and appreciative. The concert was a thorough success, many of the pieces being rendered in a most charming manner, The opening piece on the pianoforte was played listlessly, but in the overture to Guy Mannering, Mrs Moore sustained the reputation she has acquired as a pianist, "My Pet" and "Killarney," by Mr Maxwell, were fairly rendered ; "Sings the Nighingale," by Mrs Wallace, and "Titfor Tat" by Miss Jessie Wallace; were charmingly sung, the tone being pure and true, >nd the words distinctly beard in every corner of the hall. The Misses Bishop, with a good player, made the most of " Larboard Watch," but the piece was unsuitable. Miss Bishop, iv her after song, was more successful The silvery lilting of Mrs Howard was "O 1 How Delightful." Mr George Hunter in "The Charge of the Light Brigade" and "Down by the Deep' Sad Sea,"displayed to much advantage his deep bass voice. Mr Kooney was the favourite of the back eeatholdcra in his comic selections, and our ever-ready Mr O'Callaghan, in the. "Three Jolly Sailors," fairly carried his" audience with him, and made his exit amidst a perfect lound of applause. After singing the National Anthem, tho hall was cleared for dancing, which was kept up with heartiness, and our Waiuka friends allowed that they would not soon forget their evening in Onehnnga.—(Coeres rONDEHT.)

NEW ZEALAND TIMBER COMPANY.

ANNUAL MEETING,

The second annual general meeting of the shareholders of the New Zealand Timber Company was held this morning, there be ing present, Messrs C. A. Harris, sen,, (Chairman), C. A. Harris, jnn., W. Parker, F. Jaeger. Geo. Harper, I). 11, McKenzie, F. H. Hull. The following report was sitbmitted:—The directors have much pleasure in laying before the shareholders a most satisfactory balance sheet. Not withstanding that a large profit has been made, the directors have deemed it advis able to abstain from payipg a dividend at present, as they consider it of greater im portance to add stability to the undortak ing, by setting aßide a reserve fund to meet any possible contingency iv the future. The business is steadily increasing, having during the past year absorbed the busi nesses formerly carried on by Messrs Car law and Co,, Mr B, Carr, and Messrs Jaggerand Parker.HaviDgnowasteam tram way running into the Waimaringaringa bush and also to the Opitonui boom", the mill is practically independent of freshes. All the property is iv perfect order, and there is every prospect of a good year's business be fore you. Before arriving at the above result all moneys paid for good-will were written, off, and the directors now propose that the balance of profit^and loss account be allocated as follows: —To de preciation, £1,250; to reserve fuud, £8,000 j to profit and loss, new account, £210 6s 7d. Total : £9,460 6s 7d. Tho balance-sheet was as follows :—Liabili ties :To capital, £39,230; sundry creditors, £28,051 14s sd; unpresented orders, £221 2s 7d ; balance (being the profit), £9,460 6» 7d. Total, £76,963 3s 7d. Assets: By cash on hand, £39 17s 3d ; property, £25,037 lGs Id; plant, £13,074 14s 2d; vessels, £2,945; stock, £20,857 17s 4d ; sundry debtors, £14,977 18s 9d. Total, £76,963 3s

7d. The chairman, in moving the adoption, of the report and balance sheet, congratulated > the shareholders upon the success of the , year's operations, ana ho accepted it as the 1 promise of continued success fora scries of i years, In order to provide against a rainy day, the directors.seeing that all the capital had been called up, had formed a reserve fund by allocating £8,000 for that purpose, while £1,250 had been placed to the credit of the depreciation account. Their opera tions were open to any of the share holder or tho public, and if at any time a representative of the prees choso to visit their mills, he would receive at the office an order ensuring him every attention from the officers. The gentleman concluded with a regretful allusion to the death of Mr Cardno (the former secretary). Mr Hull seconded the adoption of the report. In doing so he pointed out that the Company held between eight and nine miles of froutage to the Coromandel gold field. And though tbo property bad largely increased in value owing to recent gold finds, no addition had been made to the valuation on tho Company's books.J The report was then adopted ncm. con. Mr C. A. Harris, iun., was re-elected a director, and Mr T, L. White re-appointed an 'auditor.

The meeting then having been resolved into a special general one, the following resolution was parsed :—" That the general meetings of the company be held in month of February in each year, instead of January, and that No. 10 of the company's Articles of Association be amended in so far as substituting the word February for that ef January."

A special meeting tor tho coufirmation of this rule was fixed to take place on the first Friday in March. The proceedings concluded with a- voto of thanks to the chairman.

We |have been requested to state that Knox did not sail the Euphemia yesterday, and that she was in charge of Mr Hudson, be owner.

Gross annual valuation of city property for 1882, £>81,808 ; last year, £167,660 ; showing an increase of £14,148. Should the result of appeals be of small amount, this will give the city, an increased revenue of nearly £700 per annum.

Youne; ladies and gentlemen about to atart housekeeping will bo relieved of a (treat deal of trouble by culling on the underslßned. You can ascertain in a few minutes the cost of furnishing a three, four, live, or six roomed house. Mot only can you form a correct estimate, but you oan sco all the goods ready for delivery at tho various pricou. Gurllolc and Cramvoll keep a largor stock of oarpots and bedsteads than any other houso in Auckland; also the Kreateet variety of houßohold lurnituro, most of It manufactured by their own workmen. Flvo per cent, discount allowed for ossh at time of purchase. Mow-comers aro invited to stroll through the City Hall Arcade, and satisfy thomselves by an inspection of the stock of tho good value we offer, and the readiness we are enabled to execute orders entrusted to our care -Sarlick and Cnuwell, City Hall Arcade.— (ADVr.

OUR WELLINGTON TELE GRAM.

(BY TfitiEOBAPH.—OWN COKHKSPONDENT.)

WELLINGTON, this day. LICENSING DIFFICULTY.

A CUBIOUS difficulty has arisen with re- Raid to the liquor privileges which weie recently sold in coftnectlmi with the Wel lington Ettcing Club's annual meeting, Ihe purchasers having' paid their money, hbw find thttt they are not likely to obtain a license to sell. The Licensing flench ceased to exist wheri the1 no\v licensing districts 'Were proclaimed, and the races will fee over a we% before the committees can be elected, and there is no provision, so far as can be ascertained, by which temporary. licenses ciin be granted, licensing ELEcrioM The coming licensing elections are excit ing a good deal of interest here, and there is a promise of a bitter struggle between the publicans and temperance advocates. The publicans have already selected a set of men for whota they will plumpi TONGAN AFFAIRS. Mr Van Hagan, of Tonga, Was a passen ger per Hotomabana yesterday, having come hither in connection with a petition on behalf of the residents of Tonga praying Sir Arthur Gordon, as High Commissioner of the Western Frtcific, to prevent the return to Tonga of the Key; Mr Baker. The petition is signed by 2,000 natives of the island, v/ho object to the rev. gentleman holding the position of Prime Minister to King George, one of the grounds of objection being that he also holds the offices of Min ister of Finance and Auditor-General. The Key. Mr .Baker arrived by the same Vessel. The petition was to have been presented yesterday afternoon, but nothing has yet transpired, though some interesting par ticulars arc expected to be forthcoming.

CONCERT IN AID OF ST. BENEDICT'S CHURCH.

Tub concert in aid of the building fund ot St. Benedict's Church, Newton, took place at the Choral Hall lfist evening. For some time previously preparations for the concert were in progress, Horr Carl JSchmitt, the worthy conductor of the Choral Society, having taken a vast amount of trouble to make the affair pass off successfully. The concert was initiated by the singing of the part song " Up, Quit thy Bower." This was followed by a duet, "The Syren and Friar," sum? by Miss Halstcad and Mr Khodee. Miss Bleazard sang "Bing,Sweet Bird," very nicely, followed by Miss and Mr Tole, who sang the duet, "See the Pale Moon," Miss iials* ead^waa encored for her admirable rendition of the solo "Oh, How delightful," In rcaponse thereto she gave ".Kathleen Mavourneen." A duet, " Home to our Mountains," was then given, followed by a violin solo by Herr Schmitt. The second part opened with an overture by the orchestra of the Choral Society. It was followed by a bolo, " The Wreck of tbe i Hesperus," by Mrs Garland, and a trio in i which Misses Halstead and Tolc 'and Mr : Tole took part. Mr J. Edwards effectively | sang " The White Squall." Mis? Donovan j played a grand fantasia of airs from " The j Bohemian Girl," arranged by Signor Giorza. |Mr Khodes's fine bass voice was heard to I advantage in the rendition of "David singing betore Saul" (Gounod). Misß Fenton achieved a complete success in her rendition of " Berceuse, " Horr Schmitt accompanying her with a violinobligato. The solo, "larise from dreams of thee," was well sung by Mr Forth. The' valse, "Delaware Glory," was efficiently performed by- the orchestra. The concert was a complete success inevery respect, the audience being a thoroughly appreciative one.

LORNE-STREET HALL.

The Loyal United Friends held their anniversary soiree and promenade concert in the Lome-street Hall, under a committee of management. The attendance was large and the ball largely patronised by young couples, among whom several white-heads were noticeable, Refreshments were pro vided by Mr John Hunt, ot Wakefield street, and Messrs Murray and Doyle acted as masters of ceremonies. The chief features of the evening wore the reception of Brother Warburton, recently from the Grand Lodge in England ; the presentation to him of the Grand Master's Jewel, and Mr Cox's report of the Grand lodge of Auckland. Mr Cox, on rising, was greeted with a round of applause, and, having thanked the Hibernians and representatives of kiudrcd societies who were present, gave a succinct and carefully compiled statement of the position of the lodges. At the last anniversary, the Friends had but two lodges, with 121 members, now they have three, with others in prospect, with 295 members, showing an increase of 174. A sick fund had been established in connection with the order from which members had derived benefit, and which is registered under the New Zealaud Frieudly Societies' Act. This department is limited to members under 45 ; the weekly sum of 3d ensures 10s per week in sickness, and higher amounts by higher premiums. They had 39 members paying into the sick fund. The balance in hand to tbo 31st .December was £162 4s 4d ; only £5 had been paid to sick mem bers during the past year. He would now a«k them to give a hearty welcome to Brother G. M., George Warburton, who at his own expense had visited the head quarters of tbe Loyal United Friends in London, with the view of gaining necessary intormation. Brother Warburton was now CJ.M. for the third time. They had now obtained the chartcr,aud he hoped it would be the means of spreading their principles throughout Now Zealand. (Cheers.) Mr Cox then attached the Grand Master's jewel to Bro. Warburton'a regalia amid loud applause. Bro. Warburton expressed tbe pleasure he telt on seeing so many old faces' again, and congratulated them on possessing the charter, a privilege never before conferred upon any lodge out fcide of England. He then gave an account of his reception by tho Grand Lodge in London, which was of the most gratifying character. By obtaining the charter, they were entitled to eqaal privileges. The order at home was in a flourishing condition, both numerically and financially. Their financial statement showed a credit balance of £60,000. He wished to disabuse the minds of many persons? who imagined that the Loyal United Friends was a kind of teetotal society. It was not so. All men of good character and constitution were eligible for membeiship. "He intended to say something about the condition of the working people at home, but this he must dcfer.aa they were anxious for enjoyment, and the festive dance. Songs were contributed at intervals during the .evening by Miss Lawrence, Mr Marson,and Mr Partridge. Mrs Hertz accompanied,

CRICKET MATCHES.

In viow of tho coining match, the Twenty-two assomhlcd for practice at 11 o'clock yesterday, when Messrs Buckland and L&nkham picked aides 88 follows :— MR BUOKLAND'S TBAM. Flret Innings: Tostro, b Arneil. 3; Rowden, h Arnell, 0; Cox. ltm, Lankhiun, 12; Uewes. b Ibsbo, 85; Gardiner, c Arneil, b Isaac, 28; Hindon, b Isaac, 3; Walker, o Muroford, b Lankham, 14; Donovan, lbw, Isaac, 6; Buck land, cLnnkbam, b Isaac, 7; Koaob, c Dutaur. b Isaac i ; K. Beale, b laaao, 0; A, Beale. not out, 3; eitraa. 10; total, 125. MB LANKIUM'S TEAM. First Innings: Mumford, o Gardner, b Cox, I; Arneil, o Bindon, b Huckland. 2; P. Dnfaur, b Bnokland, 31; O'Brien, o Bowden, b Cox, 6; Kinc, b Cox, 3; Thompson, o Cox, b Buokland, 0; Lankham, b Bucklard, 1; Whitosido, run out, 11; Isaac, o Deweß, b Buckland. 26; Cameron, b Ruokland, 0; Jervts, net out, U; Poroh, c and b Cox, 4; extras, 3; total, 100. In tho second innings of Buckland's team, A. Beale made 39, not out. Cox 8 (o Dufaur, b Mum /■U'd). Bowden I to Kinpr, b Thomson), Testro I (b Mumford), and Biudon 21 not out. Total, with 5 extras, 81 for three wickets. AUCKLAND C.C. (SECOND KLBVKN) V. GORDON CO. This makh onded in a viotory for tho Auck land team. AUCKLAND SKOOND BlilVltN. Cheeseman, 2; Kiploy, 3; Reid, 0; Osmond, 4; Buckland, 6: 'lhonipson. 5; It. M. Hoacli, 11; Moglulo, 1; Silva, 1; J. V. Bindon, 1 ;.Trip, not out, 2; extras, 9; total, 45, GOKPON. Kissling. 2; A. MaoCormick. 1-; Hya", 0; A»- Benuo, 0; Harrington, 0; bamlin, 'i: Uybnrn, 1; Clayton, 0; Sykes, 0: TyndaU, 0; Keiiderdlne, not out, 0; extras, 2; total, 8.

The following householders have been elected a school committee tor Cambridge West for the ensuing year :—Messrs Howie (chairman), Fitzgerald, >i\ vy. Hicks, E. Allen, James Kingdon, G. Bailey, and J. Keetly.

CABLEGRAMS.

[RBPrEB'S TEJiKOBAMS.]

I THE STOCK EXCHANGE PANIC LONDON, January 28! The London Stock Exchange market < recovering from the crisis which recentl-! arose owing to the panic on the ftSpj Bourse. *| THE FRENCH MINISTRY. PARIS, January 29, It has transpired that M. Froyclnnt Ura partly completed the formation of *J£M Ministry, as follows :-M. Freycinpf Fremier and Minister of Foreign AfiW^*? M. Leon Say, Minister of Finance r«P Ferry, Minister of Education; and mS Fifard, Minister of Commerce, jfSsf

AUSTRALIAN.

THE TOTAtISATOE CASES. 5 . MELBOURNE, January 3ft | Iho cases against [the men recently ar< rested on the Geelong racecourse for ueios totaliaators have been dismissed. HEAT AND DESTRUCTIVE BUSH FIREB, MELBQUBNE, January 30,^ Owing to the extreme heat which is now prevailing, destructive bush fires occurred in various parts ot the colony, and consider rable loss of property bus been occasioned, > SEVERE EARTHQUAKE. MELBOURNE, January 30. j • A severe shock of earthquake was felttoi day at Jamieson township^ in the Oppar Goulburn district.

DROWNING IN HARBOUR.

Constable McConnbll, -who was on ■ duty on Queen-street whart at three o'clock this morning, was patrolling down the.'pior, i and, when near the water-police-station^', heard a cry from the western side, He ran [\ in the direction indicated, and when opposite the North Shore ferry saw a man !, struggling in the water about 20 yards from 'i the wharf. He immediately gave the,.':' alarm, calling loudly " man overboard," and blew his whistle, at the" earns time securing a buoy which was hanging on an office near by. Th< life preserver was thrown towards tin drowning man, but failed to reach him, the man was struggling and drifting awaj from the buoy, and to all appearance ivai unable*to swim. Hearing the constable's ; voice he struggled violently, but all the ■ time wax going farther away from (ho I wharf. About three minutes had elapsed I from the time when the alarm was given when the man sank, and the constable ran | with all possible speed to the Waterman'*-:y house to procure a boat, but found no pei j,, \ son there. . Constable Mitchell her •■ came on the scene, and after routing a man named Fred Douz, on th steamer Rotomahana, got a boat belongiu to a schooner close by and made thorongJ i ; search, without success, however, for no I trace ot the unfortunate man could be dis covered, ■ Constable McCopncll fancied the ! man wore white clothes, but may have been , ■ mistaken owing to his struggle in the water, ■■' Constable! McConnell is {of opinion thai hid there been a waterman on duty th< man's life would probably: have been saved,' and the reason of the night-waterman's , absence requires enquiry. The name of calling of the deceased has not been ascertained up to the present. A. seaman belonging to the Taiaroa is spoken ' of as among the missing.

MR MANSON'S ASCENT OF NGAURUHOE.

AN EXCITING ADVENTURE.

Mb Hanson, whose ascent of this volcanidi'f peak (a sister of Tongariio) was reported j by telegraph a few' weeks ago, writes to a friend |in Auckland: —l had no idea that * any notice would have been taken of the * aacent, and do not know who cent the tele graphic account, which is quite correct,with the exception that the mountain was not Tohgaiiro,but Ngauruhoc; the Mud Geyser, sQit,, not 500 ft. It took me ten long days to reach the summit from TaupO with five guides. The suffering from cold and rain ' was something fright- I ful, and the trip is one that I would not again attempt under any circum-1 stances. The volcano is almost perpen dicular, and we had to climb some 2,000 ft, over a sea olMrozen lava and ashes ; the remainder of the ascent was over frozen '. snow, and a glacier as slippery as g'asj, J Within 25 feet of the summit of the cone we encountered streams of hot mud that. had been ejected from the crater, and through which we had to pass to find an ■ entrance into the cone,: . When we arrived at the summit the thermometer registered 6 I deg. belowzero. Theintcriorof the cone was ' filled with steam and covered with clouds, so much so, that we could not tea where wo were going, and wore compelled to. crawl on our hands and feet down the cone, carefully soundiug every inch ot ground as ,_ we descended, lest we should fall into a ' boiling spring or mud hole. The fume* of gas and steam were sickening, and almost . suffocated us. The roaring sound of steam blow-holes sounded like most powerful t steam engines, snorting and tearing, as if being held back by some more mighty power. The entire scene was one of indescribable terror • and awful desolation; not a'">3s vestige of nature to be seen; all , signs of the familiar earth had disappeared, and the sights and sounds". were such That they could never be forgot ten. I longed to sco my camp in the valley, I and the earth once more. I never antici pated anything so awfully terrible as this I place, or I should never have risked my J lite. The night passed in the crater was * one of terror and suffering. We had nothing to eat or drink, noblankets, and could not hear each other speak—all was darkness and desolation. We occasionally felt slight tremors of the ground, followed by a rumbling noise, as though an explo sion bad .occurred.. The night was cloudy'; and foggy. The moon tried vainly to pene trate through the darkness, but not-; until about 3 a.m., when the wind rose and the clouds moved away was the '■ mantle of darkness raised, and the glimmer' . ing rays of the moon shone down, to cheer I us in our solitude. We could now see the"* terrors that surrounded us, and whence 1 the steam, smoke, and noises emanated. The eight was one pt unsurpassed grandeur . and magnificence. The base and sides of the mountain were covered with snow which.; had fallen during the night, and the country all round Was robed, in its mantle of rest. Almost as suddenly as the moon shone down upon us did the clouds : settle, and it was again hidden from view, 9 and not until about 6.30 a.m. did we hate another view of our terrible abode. At 7 ■ a.m. the clouds cleared and the sun shone beautifully. We had, now a magnificent sight. Before us stood out in majestic grandeur the snow-clad mountain of Jiua pahu. Away to the right was Mount : Kgmont, snow-capped., The Kiamanaiwha : Range?, the Bangipo Plains, and Kuapahu Desert, looked almost at our feet." The whole scene was one of Nature's most m picturesque panoramas, and ever to.ho remembered. At 8 a,m, we began to descend, and reached our camp in the Waiohono yalley at 11.30 a.m. Wo had 1 been away just 21 hours and a half. Tho same afternoon we pulled up stakes, and rode to Te Henga, where we were most " hospitably received by Mr Bately. Here wo-,A remained all night, Next morning we rode 1 to Tokano and same day reached Taupo, thus finishing one of the most eventful trips during my thirteen years' travels in various parts of the world. I have not yet written any account for my American papers, and this is the first time 1 have hurriedly penned any account of it. V. With reference to the Press Association telegram, and tho contradictions subse quently published, the Association did not state that I was the first to ascend Tongariro, but f that I was " the firet pakeha whom the ■ I natives had permitted to make tho ascent of - the Burning Mountain." Although some two others have attempted' the ascent of. Ngauruhoo without permission, they ? ,give no account of , the altitude, and state that they did not go intd the cone. No other living, man is known to have been inside the cone but myself. Bidnell, •, Dysoryaud Difierbach ha»e»not, andtnere are no others, save my two guides—one an • Englishman, named Ernest Blyss, and the other a half-caste, named Join Turner, from the Waikato. 'I ho three Maori guides returned after having climbed about 1,000; feet. They were terrified by the ice, snow, and cold. On their way down, however, the clouds lowered, and-they lost their way, v and did not reach the camp until mid-** night. -~.: ■.]■

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR. TUESDAY. JANUARY 31.



riKIOKET! n S I U X B Tl LAWN TENNIS t LAWN TENNIS I Iba undersigned huve juet received from England, por Rotoruahans, CaiCKKT BATS, BALLS, STUMPS, LKO Guards, Gauntlets, Nki Cbickkt Etobs>, Ckicketbks' Goidks, Scores©'Books, Tknots Nets,- Folkb, Kaokkts, Balls, Tbknis Hules, c. porter & co., quekn and hish-stekkts, Auckland. AUSTRIAN BKNTWOOD Cane Chairs, Austrian I3lQnae^(itooet;BentwoodC!ane Conches ana Ui, Ween-Btroet. Lauuges. Austrian Bentwood Cane Hooking Chairs. WALNUT DRAWING * ROOM SUITES in m O lean stoS suk- Tapestry, Rep, and Cre- MfcWueen-Btreet, tonnft Walnnt Tables, What- noto and Canterbury. MAHOGANY, CKDAB, Himu, and Kanri Din mttaßßnßtoaat'i«>K-room Suites In Leather, m' lweenßtreet'Haircloth, and Ameriota Cloth. IRON Half-Testor Bed steads, Iron Frenoh Bod iei^q^b^ RbS£ Btoadß, Iron Stump Bed o ' ' Bedsteads, Iron Cota, PATENT Spting_ Roller Blinds and Venetian 123, Qaoen-streot. Bllnda, Gilt Cornices and . ffrenoh-poUahed Cornice Poles B._ _ BDROOM FUBN ITORK In Choice Mottled Kanri, 123, Queen-street Wardrobes,Bedsteada/Wash ' stands and Toilet Tables. CAKPSTS, Hearth/ogs, Linoleum, Floorcloth, 12% Qaeen-street. Mattin?, Door Mats, Bath Mats, in great variety. " IBKKAL DIBCOUNT to oash Purchasers. All i^QMfln Itr^t* B°odß d»livered free in town. MS, queen-street, 0ata,,,^,,,, poatfreo on appU • • - ■ -cation. IT1HB; NEW BUILDXNG SOCIETY, INDUSTRIAL AND PROVIDENT PERMA NENT BUILDING, LAND AND INVKST MBNX SOCIETY OF AUCKLAND. OOBHKB OF . QUKKNrSTRSKT and VULCAN LANE. All classes are invited to take up Investing Shares, payments 'weekly, interest remunera tive* " 't.Y'* ■ ■ ■ LOANS granted on seonrlty of Freehold or Leasehold Property for the purpose of Buying, BuiLDiue, &c. in sums of £20 to £5000. repay abla—for every £100 advanced—at the following Boale, by weekly, monthly, or quarterly taatal meatsi— ■■ . : . - . • Repayments Per- Repayments Per extending over Week, estonding over Week. ■ B«"d. ■,! . 8 yean .. 1510 7 years .. 8 3 4 years .. 12 6 8 years .. 7 6 5 years 10 5 10 years - 6 8 BPKOIAL FACH.ITIKB are given to Bor towers for paying off part principal money and reducing waeicly payment, or the whole snm may be paid oil at any time—the Society grant- Ing JCJBJOUL DISCOUNT. GEORGE gRASBR. Manager. mHE FACT IS NOW ASSURED X THAT INOIPIBNT CONSUMPTION, OHKONIO UKONOHITIB, ASTHMA, T&BOAT ANU'tUNG COMPLAINTS, NKHVOUS AND WASTING DIBBABKS are permanently relieved, the worst symptoms arrested, and a healthy re • aotion produced by AIOKTN'3 BYHUP OF KUOALYPTUB Wl'l'H HVPUPMUaHHrt'ItB Oif JiIMH! AND QUININK. These great resolta are owing to the combination of TitmXVS AM) BRAIN TONICS that lend increased sustaining powers to ' the invalid, added to which is the ■ BPKOJFIO ACTION of tho EuoMyDtfiß on the mwma mem branes, whoreby the air passages are cleared of unhealthy secretions in a " natural wanner. Daily evidence ia affofdoi of the per manent resuscitating action of this remedy—so that all who suffer should at once make a trial of its eminent proper ties. The Kncalyptus Syrup is moderate In price, and within the reach of all who i need It. -It ia a pharmncontioal combina tion of tonic alkaloids with hypophos* phiteu.and not a secret nostrum. Registered and gazetted undor "The Trades Marks) Registration Act," by Graves Aiokin, The Pharmacy, Auck land. Wholesale Agent l 'I'uus Nkw ZisaliAnd Drug Company MOLESKIN TROUSERS I MOLESKIN TROUSERS Since tha Abolition of Duty on Piece Goods, THE NEW ZEALAND OLUTHING FACTOKY ABB ASAIH TO THE FKONT, And can now supply their ■' Customers with ' MOLESKIN TKOUSBKS i i At35%1688 TH*» ÜBUAL WUOLSBALK FIJIOB, ;; ■-■: thy THiiatfli:t '' • To bo bad nt all tho Übt.ml Uiuwimna of tho NKW ZKAI.A.ND CLOTHING y :: f ', . ifApTORY, ~ ™ .',':'' ; ' AWKLAijD BBAHCH : ' (JOKBN-STRBET (Opposite Theatre Royal). • • iii And »t Albert-street, - Thames.



Special Advertisements. Ny 0 W KK|f DV, «T KINO TAWHI\o"ANB MAORI "W CHIEFS., <~;,;_ ..;, ' PULMANS PHOTO ROOMS, | I BnOBTLANI^BTBItKT. imROM pAKIS. Thb Most MAGNIFICENT , £J RETO NN B § KVBR SHOWN IN AUCKLAND, Ex Orient Steamer' Garonne.' Just Opened, And on Sate by GARUOK S CRANWELL, ■JJIOKEL pLATED JfRENOH AND HALF-TESTER IKON TSEDSTEADS, Vehy Handsome, and a Novelty, Just Landed ox Heimione. LARGEST STOCK OF BEDSTEADS IN AUCKLAND AT THB f ITY IT ALL A ROADE, pARLICK & rjRAIMWEU, HOUSE FURNIBHKBS. FANCY HARDEN TABLES. CANE LOUNGES FOX VERANDAHS. Bi^ok and White Wool Hbabthbugs. tapestry, brussel, & stair carpet. CHURCH PEW SEATING, Vkhv Niob, and Pbefsrablb to Oubhiokb. GaRLICK & CRANWELL, ra st vy cc k OF TUB GREAT. CLEARING-OUT SALE ov SLIGHTLY DAMAGED GOODS AT AT INABURY & flO.'S. £250 worthot REMNANTS to be sold at HAL F-PRICE, , ' t) Wo have made further Reductions on 'the General Stock In order to olear out * large portion ol Goods SLIGHTLY DAMAGED, € . ; , AN INSPECTION INVITKD. A. LIN AB URY & Co., SOI and 206, Queen St. Cf PECI AJU gA L E ov piRST-OLASS OUMMKR /IOODS. TO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN. HT A GRBAT SALE TE* DRAPERY AND CLOTHING Will be held on premises ot J. COSGRAVE & CO., QUBBN-STRBBT. AUCKLAND, It will be perhaps Burprialng to many that we adopt th present course at thU sooaon ol the year, bnt w do it on principle alone. First iTo counteract the influence brought to bear on the public in these extraordinary times. Second: To give the Inhabitants the benefit of some very extensive Shipments, as well as large purchase made at auotlon. And third: To let the people of Auckland see whore they can get the best value for their money. The Duty on all Manchester Goods being re duced by 16} per cent, and being huge pnrohasers lately, this reduotion will be a great boon to Housekeepers and the public in general. No Goods will be Entered during the Sale. CASH MUST BB PAID FOR ALL PUR CHASES. t nosGKAtrE & rio #> - QOEKN-BTKKET, AUCKLAND. JUST RECEI YE D, Per May Queen and Coromandol, labqe shipmbhts of "... Brussels and tapbstry IQarpbts, ' (ALL NSW PATTERNS). A Splendid Assortment of French and English CRETONNES. LAOB AND NBT CURTAINS - In Great Variety. Brass and Iron Bedsteads and Cots, IRON VHNBTIAN BLINDS (all colours). VERANDAH BLINDS, PERAMBULATORS. FURNITURE of every description In stock and made to order. INSPECTION ISVITKD. TIT INKSAND JDTALL, Wholesale and Retail cabinetmakers and upholsterers, and carpet warehousemen. i '*' Shoktland-stbxet. tyiLLIAM T> "ORIDGMAN, JUNCTION *DRAPERY i WAREHOUSE. Having purchased some large lots of Clearing Warehouse Lines, will sell them veiy cheap. 100 Lace Fichus and Capes at 2a Ad; warehouse price Is ltd 20 Girls' Cashmere Jackets from 7s 6d £0 Ladies' Cashmere Fichus and JUoliuaus, 7s 6d tolOaSd ~ 100 Ladies' Ulsters, Fichus (Black and Colored), Dolmans, from 10s 6d to 255, belog less than «, t" 8,? wM«n<>nße price; very handsome goods SO Ladles' Handipmo Black Silk Jookete from 20,000 dozen Buttons, new goods, in great variety, from 2d tier dozon 2SOO yards New Pattern Muslin Works. 2d, 2Jd, 3jd, IJd, to Is—much under usual price Very good line Men's Oxford Shirts, to 17. 17}inch.6a9d; worthßs6d Good Coloured Damask Table Covers, 0a Sd, 7s 6u, 88 6a Linoleum, various widths, 4s 6d square yard 600 rards New Pompadour Prints, did; worth 6Jd, Just opened, choice patterns 1500 yards New Pompadour Prints, 6}d; worth Bd. Just opened, choice patterns Good Bed Tick, lid; extra value at 7}d 1500 yards Good Dress Materials, to clear, 6d per yard. Half-price. Double Widths Scarlet and Green Furniture Repps, Si ', worth 63 fid ■ Double width, all Wool, Scarlet Damask, 2b lid. Half-price Nice lot Ladles' Leather Barn from 3s 8d 100 Cocoa Mats, Is Bd, 2a 3d, 3s 6d. 100 Door Slips, 2s did 300 pair Men's Coloured Mole Trousers, 7s, worth 8s 6d Men's Tweed Trousers, 7s 6d, 8s 6d, 10s 6d, 12s 6d. Splendid value Men's Tweed Trousers and Vests, 138 Sd, 16s 6d, » 21s Men's Tweed Suits. 220 M, 32s 6d, 37a 6d, Colonial do., 52s 6d Boys' Suits, Ss Sd. 10s 6d,12s 6d. Galatea d0.,3s 8d AU Goods Marked in Plain Figures (uett tor Cash. WIIiLIAM R. BRIDGMAN, ■ Up «>r Queen-street.



Tawhiao.—lmportant Wotice: A full, page Cartoon Portrait of King Tawhiao, in orthodox native dress, with mere, Kiooootono, hula feathers, and wig, aU complete (full length), will be given away with Friday's "Observer." It is far the finest likeness yet taken, and has been splendidly executed'in chalks,—[Adyt.]