SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

™~r. (This Evrninir, 10.(0 HIGH WATER Vro-morrow Morning 10.19 SUNSET.—'Uhis Evening, 7.4 HUNKIS '..-To-morrow Morning. 1.39 MOON'S AGK-First Quarter, 7th, 11.25 p.m,

ARRIVALS.

Bo»Breews. schooner,.syhn, from Russell Opotiki, ketch. Rust, from Opotlkl

DEPARTURES.

Tarawera, s.s., Sinclair, (or Russell Areyle, b.s-. Norris, for Mercury nay Energy, schooner. Cooper, for•Creyiiioiiln Bengal, barque, Oyston, lor Meivury J(a> Macgregor, s.s., Johnson, lor S\ hatigarei

Inwards Coast wise.—Progress, from W han capoua, 31,'JOllft timber; Opoti).i, Hum Opotlkl, with 383 sacks maize, Hi hides ; hcu Breeze, from Russell, with SO tons coal. Outwards Coastwise.- Progress, for Wlmn gopoua ; Pukapuka, lor Coromandel: Agnes Martin, for Mongonui. The schooner Gisborne is advertised Jo leave on Saturday for Gisborne and the K,.st Coast. Tho brigantine Ada C. Owen[. pwecods from this port to Hokianga to load timber thero tor Kockhainptoii. The barque Bengal sailed yesterday for l.ock hampton via Mercury Bay. The barque Grasmero cleared at the (-'nston'S to day for Kaipara, where she will load timber for an Australian port. The barque Helen Denny entered out at the Customs to-day for Napier, where .the will loud for London direct.

The Auckland schooner Welcome arrived at Wellington from Clarence River. Queensland, yesterday morning, alter a smart passage ol seven days.

The Westport coal Company's third now stcamor, Waralca, CaptainKihU, from Glasgow via Hobart,arrived at. tt'eslpon this afternoon. Sho brines machinery for tho \\ cstport and Greymoui.h mines.

The s.s. Rotomahnna will make a special trip on Friday next to convey the Hand ol Hope Union Choir to the Thames. If will be a re markably cheap trip-5s return—and as it will eccupy only one day, no doubt the excursion will be well patronised. Tho Rotoinahana leaves Queen-street wharf at half-past seven in the morning.

CRUISE OF H.M.S. LARK.

H.M. schooner Lark arrived yesterday after noon. Left Auckland for the usual seasons work in the Solomon Group on 28tli March last; arrived at Santa Anna Island on llth April, and sailed for Ugi Island two days later, completing the survey of the eastern partot San Christoval Island en route. On arrival at Sclwyn Bay, Ugi Island, on 2_nd April, found that thecaptain, with wife, family, and erowof the American barque Illio, were living there. They reported that tho Illiohad been wrecked on the north-west corner of Guadalcannr Island somo weeks previous. The ship had driven over the reef upon which sho flrst struck, and had gone ashore on the const. Her people hud, however, to leave In the boats on account of the hostility displayed hy the natives. After two days and nights in the boats, they were picked up hy th" Lotus (ketch) and landed at Ugi Island. The Lurk proceeded with them nn hoard to Brisbane, arriving on May 13. Leaving Brisbane on May lU, Treasury Island was reached on Juno 2. Having completed the survey of tho island, Bougainvillo -.traits were taken in hand for tho remainder of the season. Left Treasury Island on November 2nd, worked to tho K. until llth. then stood to the S. Sighted Strndhopc island, on Queensland coast, November 2.'nd, and Clarence Peak, N.S.W., at, 6 p.m. next evening, losing tho trade shorly after. The wind shifted to the N., and continued in that quarter, getting more W. as tho ship approiichod New Zealand. OnDoccmber 2nd sighted Three Klngsnbout 11 a.m., the wind shifting to S., where it continued blowing more or letß fresh, with occasional rain squalls until arrival. Passed Capo Brett 8 a.m.. and anchored ofl'North Head at 1.30 pm. The names of the oflleersnre: Lieutenant in com mand—C. X Oldham; lieutenants —C. F. do M. Malan, T. 11. Homing, and Alex. Lceper ; sim geon—H. B. Guppy, M.B.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Hannah llokau, s.s.. Dale, from Waitara Lalla Hookh, s.s., Bailey, from Waitara

The steamers Hannah Mokau and I_alla Rookh arrived from Waitara at k o'clock this morning tho former with 11 kegs, 2 cases butter and 2GO sheep; tho latter with 10 horses, 10 hoad cattle, and 30 kegs butter. The Hannah Mokau was to return thither at 2 o'clock this afternoon.

The N.S.S. Company's Bowonahad not ar rived fromlCawhia up to 1 o'clock.

The U.S.S. Company's Takapuna was ex tocted to arrive from Southern ports at 2 o clock this afternoon.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

TnAMES. lliia day.—Arrived: Prosperity, to load 120,000 f<;«t timber at Head's mill for Bock- WHANUAREr. this day.—Arrived: Macgregor, from Auckland, at 7 a.m. . Waitara, this day.—Arrived: Douglas, from Onehunga, 11.5 a.m. ..,,,.,, , Rl-sset.l, this day.—Arrived; Julia Pryce and Tarawera. The latter sails at 5 p.m. Passen gers : - For Lyttelton : -Airs Hastings. For Napier : Mrs 11. Williams, Mies Hakes Mt Twi»t. For Auckland : Messrs bmallihaw, Mann, Tamo. Hart, Usher, Carbines, Mosdtimes Carbines, Luco, Miss i.uco. and others. New Plymouth, this day.—Arrived: Taia roa, from Onehunga, C a.m. London. Doceinoer 3.—Arrived : Divor, ship. from Bluff, August 28. Arrived at Plymouth to-day' The P. and O. steamship Clyde, from Melbourne. Octobor ll: and Orient steamship Lusltania, from Melbourne, October 21, with a cargo of -1,500 carcases of mutton on board. DOXF.OIN, this (lay. - Sailed, yesterday: JDetlanco, for Auckland.

COMMERCIAL

.Evening Stab Office, this day.

Messrs B. Tgxks and Co. sold tho property at Remuera to-day to tho mortgagee, for £1,300. The land consisted of to.3r 30p, with all tho im provements thereon. Tho sale of tho properties at Northcoto and other outlying districts did not take place. Messrs Tonke and Co. will offer to-morrow three hogsheads of earthenware— dinner, tea, and coffee services—also a case of electro-plated waro.

Mr Buckland's Wool Sale.

Mr At-KRED Bockland held a wool sale to-day at the Hayinarkot, which was well attended by buyers and othors. About 200 bales of various kinds woro offered, and, with tho exception of a few reserves, all were sold. The following were the averaged prices obtained: — Longwool (greasy) s}d, 55d. Bd, 6Jd, to ij_jd, which was the highest figure; half-bred (greasy) brought 54d and ojd; merino, 53; longwool (washed), Rid andß_d, and one inferior balo, il-d. The buyers were Messrs tSUto... Hcskoth, Ireland, Lay bourn, Potter, Sutlicrlaiid, and Warnoek.

The stories about Sarah Bernhardt are mostly calumnies. It, is the fate of true gonius to be followed hy slanderers. Jealousy often stmts the pack, and then the whole bevy of hounds join ill the chase. Those who know her are high in their laudations of her character, just as those who arc familiar with tho virtues of Uiiou'lio Woi.-i-'-i Schiedam Aromatic Sciix.U't'.s.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails will Close as under :—

This Day. For Thames, per Rotomahaun. at I p.m. For Friendly Islands, per Myrtle, at I p.m. For Whangarei Heads. Whangarei, ICaino, mid

Mungapai. per Wuitaki. at j p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at ii.3o p.m.

Thursday, (ith inst. For Tai-anal.l and Southern ports, per Taka puna, at S a.m. For newspapers at 7 a.m., late letters till 8.20 a.m. For Waiwcrn, Te Kapa, Craigieburn, and

Warkworth, etc., per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Waitara, etc., per Douglas, at 11 a.m. For Hokianga, etc., per Rowena, at ll a.m. Per Taruwcra, as follows:

For India, China, Japan, Mediterranean Ports and Continent of Europe, at 10 a.m. For Gisborne, Napier, Southern Ports, and United Kingdom (via Suea and llrindisi, or via Naples, for letters, etc., specially so pre paid and addressed), at 11 a.m. Money Orders, for Southern Ports and Aus tralian Colonies only, at 10 a.m. For regis tered letters and newspapers at lOa.ni. Late letters till 11.20 p.m. For Tauranga, Ohincmutu, and Opotlkl, per Glenelg, at 1 p.m. For Mangawai and Kaiwaka, per Ruby, at 5

p.m. For Tyaines, per Annie Milbank, at 5.30 p.m.

Tuesday, llth December. Per Zenlandia, as follows— For Sandwich Islands, Unltorl States of America, Canada, Britfi.li Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 11 a.in. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 11 a.m. For money orders, tho previous evening at 1 o'clock. For registered letters and newspapers, at. 10 a.m. Litlo letters, bearing an extra fee of six pence in addition to the postage, will be received by tho Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. This mall will bo due in London on Sat urday, Jan. 19. 'SSI. S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-ofllce, Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

December 5. 18_3. Abbott's Opera Houso—" The Grand Duchess," 8 p.m. "The Origin and Destiny of tho British and American Nations," by Mr 11, W. Farnall, V.M CA. Rooms, 7.30 p.m. Members of City Guards, Drill-shed, 7.30 p.m. Pitt-street Wesley an Church — Convention, paper by Rev. J. S. Hill, 7.30 p.m. St. Sepulchre's Church—Service, 7.30 p.m.

Notices to Correspondents.

J.F.—We should prefer to trust such a delicate operation to a iiualitied practitioner. Hut if you are disposed to try it, inquire, lliwt of all, personally lroiu one of the sufferers who are said to have been cured.

Births.

BLAIR. — On December 3, at Brown-street, Ponsonby, the wife of Alexander Ulalrof a daughter.

Marriage.

HKhJ-AlUJ—kvai\s.-Un Ueecmuer :., at the Baptist Chapel, Auckland, by tho Rev. Mr • Bold, William Helfard, of Port Albert, to Amelia Evans, Napier, youngest daughter of William Elijah Evans, London.—Home papors plcaso copy. RICHARDSON-CATjDICUTT.-On November 20, at St. James's Church, Auckland, by the Bey. It. F. Macnicol. John Richardson, of Auckland, to Kmily Selenia.youngestdaughter of Mr Charles Catdicutt, of Onehunga.

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 1883.

For tho Cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs rcsiutaneo, For tho future in the distance, And tho good that wo can do.

Osck mora the question of site for a board ing-houso in connection with Auckland Grammar School presses itself to the front, and it is very desirable that once for all the matter should be definitely decided, On Saturday morning the Board of Governors is to meet and determine upon a site In faco of the very "straight" recommenda tion made to them by tho Committee ap pointed to inquire and report on tho sub ject, and the very excellent reasons by which such recommendation is backed, it is difficult to sea how divergence of opinion is possible. Thero are those, however, who cling pcisistently to the idea of having tho boardihg-houso in close proximity to the school, and it is with tho hope of doing somothing to change the views of that section that wo again revert to the matter. Lot it bo clearly understood that wo are fully alive to the importance of having tho schoolandboarding-houso in close proximity to each other. For discipline and efficiency there is a decided advantage in having the two establishments conjoined ; and if the conditions were favourable, no one would dream of having the two places separate. But tho Grammar School is in tho city, and there is not sufficient ground to bo had in its immediate vicinity which would serve as a sito for a boarding - houso. If the Grammar School pupils wore boarded in town, they w«uld requiro spacious grounds, and every appliance for athlotic exorcises, if their health was not to suffer. Such grounds cannot be got near the Grammar School, and the Governors must therefore make a virtue of necessity, and go to the country fur a site. The Com mittee's report, which we have not space to publish in full, vory ably disposes of the alternative proposals to place the boarding house on the Government House paddock or on tho Domain lands. They point out tho extreme improbability of cither of these sites being granted ; and we would add that as thoy are not immediately contiguous to tho Grammar School, thoy aro in no way to be preferred to a country site. Discipline can be as readily maintained in an establish J ment five miles from the Grammar School as in one only a mile distant, as tho Assist ant Master would in either case reside in the boarding-houso; * and other things being equal, there is no sound reason for prefer ring the town site. But other things are far from being equal. For salubrity, the town residence cannot compare with the country one, and the former site would also cost considerably more than the latter.

The Committee, which was composed of Sir G. M. O'Rorko, and Messrs J. M. Dor gaville and J. A. Tola, recommends the adoption of the country site, After dis posing of the proposed city sites, the report proceeds:—"Sites at the Surrey Hills estate, Bowling-green in Grafton Road, Ellerslie, Remuera, and Epsom, remain for . consideration, and tho Committee think that tho site at Ellerslie which thoy ro commend commands tho preference. It consists of 5 acres 0 roods '22 perches, tho property of Mr Robert Graham. Tho land is of good soil, level, and conse quently admirably suited for a playground. It abuts on the railway, and is only a fow minutes' walk from the Ellorslio station. And the Committee considers that if this ; site can be secured for £750 or thereabouts it should be at once secured, and a build ing, capable of accommodating 50 boarders as well as the Head-master and an assistant : master, ejected on it. The Cpmmittco thinks that the cost pf this building and tho furnlsb(og.o,f It should be Icept'within t'3,250, or, adding the post of the land, £4,000. This sum the Committee thinks couid be borrowed at 0 or 7 per cent,, so that thaannual charge upon t,ho funds of the fmfmmar School would not bo moro than _L"g4o or £280 per annum. This annual ehargo the Committee is of opinion would easily be i met »s soon as tho number of boarders reached, fifty (50) at £50 per annum each, so that tho eutabljshment would be a self supporting one, entailing no burden, so far as tho payment of tho annual interest goes on the existing school," It appears to us that tho position resolves iteplf into this:—The Governors aro resolved to er»ct a boarding-house in connection with the Cteaipjnar School, to provent many parents, a^at prete,;£, fending their sons to Cliristchurch and Duriedtij, jyjioro there are i boarding establishments; it is dgsirft'blo fiat tho school and boarding-house should be iv " plose proximity to eneh other; but tills is impossible, un less the school wgris *<s.r,f,oypd ; therefore the boarding-house must be apaif; ffpfjj the tcifqj)!. If a better, cheaper, and ipre saluijripus *ij^3 than that at Ellerslie can be found, the Bo&t'dl Qf governors should by all 'apeanp fix .upon it.; bub this recom mendation being tho result of tii.e labours of a coinm.ittee, the members of v/hfoh havo iija4o' ejfhftustjye inquiry an,d con sidered the subject' .in oil .its bearjngs, they could not, Wt^ipSf, do bettor than act upon it. E*"ie*y inorith thftt the ftsijile monfc of tho question j.s delayed adda to the difficulty of getting it suitable £tte, and also adds to tho cost of such site when found. Wo therefore hope

that, at this juncture the Governors will reconcile their differences of opinion and resolve upon providing without delay tho establishment upon which nil their hearts are set, and which will prove such a boon to country residents wishfu I of securing tho benefits .of higher education to their soi s,

His Honor Judge Gillies is expected to return from Wellington, where ho has been attending the Court of Appeal, on Monday next. The next Banco and Chamber sittings of the Supreme Court, will depend on his other arrangements.

It will bo scon from our report of the Presbytery, that it report in favour of the adoption of tho now book, "Church Praise," now being issued by tho Presbyterian Church of Knglaud, was approved. It will be forwarded to the General Assembly, which sits in Welling ton in February, and if adopted by that, body, will supersede the " Psalms and Hymns " now in usq.

A man named Richard Burgess, sufl'ering from a broken thigh, was brought in from Onehunga yesterday by Dr Scott, and ad mitted to the Hospital.'

The business at the Police Court this morning, before 11. G. SethSmith, Esq, Jl. M., consisted only of two cases, viz., Victor Collin, of Wellington, a man of property, charged with using threatening language ; but as Superintendent Thomson had not, re ceived a reply from Wellington in respect, of tho case, it, was remanded until to morrow (Mr George appeared in defence). Thompson Grainger pleaded guilty to stealing a rug, value 20s, the property of Robert Murdock, of the Governor Gordon Dining-rooms. Tlio prisoner deliberately stole the rug and took if, straight to Mr Hart, pawnbroker, pledging it for Js. Seven days' imprisonment, the Is found upon prisoner to bo restored to Mr Hart, and the rug to the owner.

The action of tho Grammar School Board of Governors in electing Mr ,1, M, ('lark to the Hoard over Mr R. Jlobbs, Chairman of the Board of Education, continues to be warmly canvassed. A legal opinion is said to havo been obtained on tho matter, and this is to the effect that the action of the Governors is illegal. At tho meoting of t.hu Board of Education, which takes placo on Friday next, Mr Cooper has given notice of his intontion to move : "That tho action of tho Board of Governors in tilling tho vacancy caused by the resignation of Mr Laishloy bo considered."

Mr Doran has engaged several comedians from tho South, and has secured Abbott's Opera House for a grand variety entertain ment on the lSth inst. lie will also open at the Theatre Royal during the Christinas week for a series of Christinas gift concerts suitable to the season.

The Mount Roskill Licensing Committee moeting, having yesterday lapsed for want, of a quorum, was adjourned until noon of Friday, 7th inst., to be held at the ollico of the clerk, Mr Seaman, at Now Zealand Insurance Building, Auckland.

Tho taonthly inspection parade of tho Victoria Company took place at tho Drill shod last evening. Captain Muhon, Lieutenants Skinner and Self, and fill rank and lilo wore on parade. Sergeant-Major llaslom called tho roll. Captain Million and the officers then put tlio Company through battalion drill and bayonet exercise, the movements being done very steadily and efficiently.

The Salvationist demonstration yesterday was a most successful one. Thero was a crowded attendance at tho Thuat.ro in the evening, when Mrs llnmpson delivered an eloquent address. Donations wcro received in the afternoon to the amount of .CIHO 10s, whilo in the evening i.l_j was col looted and £14 promised. Our report of tlio proceed ings appears on the fourth jvigo of this evening's issue.

The monthly meeting of the Acclimatisa tion Society was hold yesterday, then being present: Messrs James Russell (Prcsi dent), It. G. Barstow, Jas. Burtt, and T B. Hill. The Secretary (Mr Chccsonian submitted tho financial statement, whicl showed a credit balance iv tho bank of H3G', '2a Od. A letter was received from tho Colo nial Secretary forwarding some copies of i bill introduced into tho Tasmanian Parlia ment to provido for the destruction of tin codlin moth. A letter was also receive, from tho Domain Board inquiring what proportion of tho Society's income for the present year can be paid to tho Hoard foi tho purposo of tlio acclimatisation of plants, After somo discussion a sum of 17)0 was votet for tho purpose. As the fishponds being constructed out near the Asylum will abut vponfhc property of Messrs Garrett, Mi Hill was deputed fco see those gontlemoi and obtain their permission. Accounts amounting to i'-ll wcro passed for payment, and the mooting rose.

Mr Cooper's motion ro the exclusion of country scholars from city schools, on which three amendments have already boon moved, will como up again for discussion at (ho Board of Education meeting on Friday. Another motion by Mr Luko is on the Order Paper as follows : —" That as the teaching of elementary science in our primary schools is of the utmost importance, and as this Board is of opinion that in the present courso of public instruction not enough attention is given to this subject, tho Inspector is therefore requested to report to tho Board as soon as possible as to what, ho may con sider the best means of giving a greater amount of scientific instruction, especially to thoso pupils who have passed tho fourth and lifth Standards."

A mooting of ratepayers of the Grafton Ward was hold last night in St. Sepulchre's School-room for tho purpose of hearing the views of Mr J. C. Sharland, ono of the candidates for the seat on tho City Council recently Tilled by Mr C. S. Shaylo Goorgo. Mr McNaught, on the motion of Mr Brook ing, was voted to the chair. Mr Sharland statod his views with clearness and perspi cuity. Ho said lie had boon in tho colony .'l7 years, aided in directing local government, and felt confident that his oxperionco in local matters would benefit tho ward. Ho oxpressod himsolf in favour of a bridge across the ccmotcry gully to make a direct communication between Grafton Bond and Symonds-street—a work which would re quiro both skill and money to accomplish. He was also in favour of proper drainage and sanitary improvement, which, as affecting tho health of persons, wcro of groat importance. He objected to rook loss expenditure of money on non-produc tive works, and consequently, if elected, would not bo inclined to sanction tho ex penditure of money for Mr Edgcombe's property at tho Western Springs. Ho would confine his attention more immedi ately to making streets, general improve ments, and give his best attention to the necessary wants of the district.

Ypsterday at a meeting of the Grammar School Board of Governors, a lengthy re port was submitted from tho committee appointed some tinie ago to consider t|)e question of erecting a boarding-house in connection with tho school. This report went into the matter at groat length, and concluded by recommending the acquisition of about live acres of land at Ellerslie, and tho erection thereon of a suitable boarding-houso. Some discussion took place as to tho ad visability of giving publicity to the Com mittee's recommendation, lest the result should bo to cause an onhanccd price to bo asked for tho land referred to. Mr Darga villo said he would risk giving £100 moro ■for the land rather than havo tho re port suppressed. As there was a small at tendance of governors the moeting ad journed till Saturday next at 10 a.m., but iv the meantime it was resolved to give tho Committee's report to tho Press.

A lecture was given at Mercer on Monday oveninginaidofthoChurchofEnglandßuild ing Fund, and passod off vory well. Tho attendance was not so largo as might have been expected, on account of the bad weather sotting in half-an-hour boforo tho lecture pommonced. Tho subject was tho "French Revolution," by the Rev. Mr Smallfiold, The toy, gentleman handled tho subject very well. Tho choir gave a few selections from Moody and Saukey's Hymns. "Gospel Bells," "Take tho Wings of tho Morning, v "Behold What Love," "Wonderful Words of Life," "My Rcdcomcr," "Bringing in the Sheaves," woro all rendered in very good stylo, RecitationD by Miss Maud James and 1.1 iss Margaret McFarlane woro both well delivered, and a song by Miss Maud Maxwell, "Daisyßlossoms,"wasiairlysun"l, A comic song by Mr Young was loudfy applauded. A vote of thanks was passed to the lecturer and choir, and, in response, the rev. gciii.e.ua;: returned thanks on behalf of himself and the uhqir. The collection was then taken up, and tho mueilijj;- catne i o j) olose by singing "God Save tho Quoeii." '

Mr K. Afihiir will offer for sale pi Thurs day next a numtiei of sections of land situated at Birkenhoßd, Northcoto. The estate, contain ing ahout XW acrei of land', s-ihdivi<i<:u unci thirty sections of about'live to twelve acre's Ja known as "Mavfleld..' Tho land is unduliitjng, wpJJ jvatered, easjly cultivated chiefly open fern with clumps of hush, soil >#.ndy, with good clay subsoil, well adapted for growing all kinds of fruit trees, forwjiich pui': ppso jt jnu§t become at no distant time very valuable: it being so C!.sy of access from Auck land city, and being so conveniently and pleasantly situated for homesteads for thoso engaged in business. Lithographic plans of " Mayllcld" Gaji be seen at Mr Arthur's mart.

SCINTILLATIONS.

"Tiik Grand Diviid.s" by tho juveniles to-night.

Hamilton-Raglan telegraph line is to go ahead.

_ Tho meteorological battery shows no signs of " clearing up." Look out for "the Star.Summary this week.

"The Vagabond," having sottled the New Hebrides question, is now oil' to Now Guinea.

Mr Bryce, Native Minister, has gone to Kawhia.

A Canterbury cricket team learct. for Auckland on :20th inst.

Tho London "Times" and "Standard" have each sent war correspondents to Tonquin.

Mr Farnall tonight proposes to identify William the Conqueror with tho tribe of Benjaniin.

Pukekohc and Mauku Chooso and Bacon Factory will bo ready to start by Christmas. Mr Bryce thinks that when the King Country is opened the Native Ollicc may be abolished.

U is reported that Mr Tennyson, the poet laureate, will shortly be raised to tlio peei' 'Hi' 0- '

Bishop Luck gave v garden party at his residence yesterday.

Tho New i-oaland Cabinet, is well pleased with tho progness of the Conference at Sydney.

Onohunga telephone bureau is expected to bo opon in a fortnight.

Mrs llampson loaves Auckland by tho mail steamer for San Francisco on Tuesday next.

A Hampshire graveyard contains a tomb stone creeled to tho memory of " three twins."

South Dunedin Town Council's proposal to borrow t'lo,ooo has been almost unani mously agreed to by tho ratepayers. lion. Mr Mitcholson continues his pro gress through the South Island. Last night he wont on from Timaru to Oamaru.

The old English fair at Wellington has realised £000 during tho two days it has boon ojion.

Branch olliccs of tho Australian Mutual Provident Society aro to be opened at tho Now Yoar in Auckland, Dunedin, and Christchurch.

To euro deafness in a man, bo^in to whisper t* him about a chance to mako his fortune.

Tho Immigration Olticors report to Government that the Triumph is unsuitable for immigrant!., and the management on tho voyage is also condemned as bad. Miss Louise Pomeroy and Company arc playing "Hamlet" ut Wellington—tho loading lady playing tne role of Ophelia. l'ut's illustration.—" Ye pays no moro at tention to mo," said Patrick to his children, '• than if I was aditni baste talking to ycz." The proporty tax returns will, it is con fidently expected, exceed tlio c.stiinnto (£250,000) by a considerable amount, which will, to somo extent, countorbnluneo tlio serious falling off in customs revenue, Professor •Seeley, of Cambridgo, has written tlio article on Napoleon for tho now volume of tho " Eucyclojjiedia Britunnicu." It will bo ono of tho longest in the whole work.

FIRE IN SYMONDS-STREET.

Tills morning, about half-past 12 o'clock, an alarming outbreak of firo occurred at the coiner of Symonds-street and Grafton Iload, just opposite tho Choral Hall. Tho lire broke out in a two-storied wooden building occupied as a grocery shop and dwelling house by Mrs Impoy, senior. Its progress was vory rapid, and in a short time from tho discovery of the lire it was evident that, there was no hopo of saving the building. Tho inmates, indeed, had a very narrow CKcajxi with their lives, having to lleo from tho houso in their nigWt-dressos. The building formed one of several, built on Grammar School endowment land, which had been advertised for salo and removal, and Mrs linpcy had been preparing to remove,and hud got sonic of 1..-r household furniture transferred only yesterday to the houso of hor daughter. Tho occupants of the house which has boon destroyed were Mrs Impoy, her son Thomas, aged fourteen, and hoi niece, Hose Impoy, aged four years. They stale that thoy wcro aroused by the crack ling of tho burning building, and finding that tho flames had got a (inn hold of tho promises, woro glad to escape as quickly as possible. Tho lire raged for somo time boforo tho tire-bells gave forth an alarm,ami by tho liiuothatfho Firo Brigade, under Superintendent Hughes, reached the scene of tho conflagration, it was scon that (hero was no chance of saving tho building. Tho efforts of tho Brigade, and of tho Salvage Corps, under Captain Field were therefore directed to preventing the spread of tho lire. Houses on each side of tho burning building woro in imminent clangor of being destroyed, but by tho labours of tho two corps the adjoining boarding-houso was saved, though Mr F. H. Eyre's house had to be gutted. Tho loss includes Mrs Impoy's stock n.ul somo of hor furniture, besides damago to effects in tho othor houses.

A curious circumstance in connection with the firo is tho fact that in tho courso of yesterday, what looked like an at tempted firo was discovered on Mrs Impoy's premises. Pieces of candle, with somo paper and shavings, wcro found in a hole in tho shop, tno paper showing marks of burning, as well as tho wall adjoining. This is conjocturod to have born tho work of rats. Beyond tho glonder hint thus supplied, no clue ban boon got to tho origin of the lire. The police under Sergeant White turned out to tho tire, anil rendered good foivice in preserv ing order and protecting proporty, Mrs Impoy's stock was insured in tho Union Ollicc for £100. So far as wo have learnt, none of the buildings woro insured.

SUPREME COURT.-In Banco.

A siTTi.vii of tho Supreme Court was hold to-day beforo tho Registrar, whon orders of dischargo were applied for and granted to the following debtors : Henry Peter Bluett, Robert Martin, Samuel Wilson, Edward Hunter, Charles A, Robertson, James and Leslie Moir, Thomas Wayth Gudgeon, and Augustc William Bupiett. This was tho only business.

SPORTING NEWS

Wanganui Cup Nominations.

Wahoanuj, this day, Tiik following nominations have boon re ceived for the Wanganui Cup of SOOsovs, 2J miles :—-St. Clair, Swcot Home, Hippjna, Buzzard, Sham, Ringleader, Comet, Sir George, Refrigerator, Okato, Witiora, Normanby, Heretaunga, Dan, Ohua, Tim WhiiHer, Libeller, Mischief, Leonata, Flora Macdonald, The Poet, The Laird, Gabble, Administrator, Consul, Odd Trick, Armourer, Leonora, EBcopcta, Louie, Lubra, Lord of tho Hills, Maori, Larrikin, Turquoise, Miss Juan, Waircrcka, Gallant, Blue Gown, Parcra, Bayard.

Thames, this day.—Tho racehorse Wood pecker was sold to-day by Colonel Frasor to Mr Blaikie, bookmaker, for £250,

Tho stakes wou at the Takapuna Jockoy Club Spring Meeting will bo paid, at tho Flagstaff Hotel, North Shore, on Friday night.

BRETT'S COLONISTS' GUIDE AND CYCLOPEDIA OF USE FUL KNOWLEDGE.

Tin. following letter is from Mr .lames Wallace, Hillside, I'apaloltoi. As one of tho most practical and successful settlers in Hie Auckland district, his opinion is of great valuo:—" Sir,—l havo looked forward with a considerable dogree of interest to the publication of Droit's Colonists' Guide, and can now say that it lias far exceeded my expectations. Hardly a day passes without my (hiding something in its rages both interest ing and instructive. It is a book that should ho in every settler's house in the colony. The por tion devoted to farming is full of reliable infor mation, and I havo no hesitation in saying that it is tin. most comprehensive and useful guide for a New Zealand colonist over published.—l have, Sic, James Wallace."

CABLEGRAMS.

[reutkr's CABLKORAM.]

(Received December s—l p.m.)

Oponins of United States Congross. Wasimniitox, December 4.—The United States Congress was formally opened to-day. In the customary message on the occasion, President Arthur announces that the Government have decided the extent of the relations of the union with eastern nations, and that it might possibly become necessary to co operate with othor powers with -a viow to secure liberty of trade in Congo Valley. He suggests that a policy oi retaliation should bo pursued towards countries levying taxes on the importation of American products. The message an nounces that the Budget show.-, a stitp'us of thirty-nine million dollars, and concludes by urging that steps be taken to reconstruct the army of the Union, and at the same time proceed with the Union coast defences which arc necessary. (Received December 5, 11.50 a.m.) Commercial. London-, Dec. 3.— Consols arc quoted at 100J,- ex div. New Zealand securities re main at last quotations, viz., 5 percent, 10-10 loan. 105 ; !> por cent. 1880 loan, 104 ; 4! pur cent. 1870-1904 loan, 101.V ; 10 per cent, inscribed stock, 100.. ex div. The market, rate of discount has declined to _.] per cent, and is .',' below tho bank rate. London Markets. Adelaide wheat, ox store, has declined sixpence per quarter, and is to-day at Ills. New Zealand wheat, is quoted at .'!Bs (id to •l.'ls (id, a dcclino of Is on best qualities. Adelaide flour remains at Ms, ex store. Wool Sales. To-day's auction was firm, and an active demand was experienced for the various lots oll'ercd. The catalogue comprised 82,000 bales. The Storing of I'rozon Meat. The cargo of frozen mutton, consisting of H,(if>o carcases, which arrived on 21st Nov. from Melbourne per steamship Garonne, , but was stored, owing to the market being temporarily glutted, was placed on the market to-day, whon the carcases offered realised from 5.-Jd to 5A per pound. The meat, was in fair condition, but too fat. Melbourne Grain Market. Mbi.iiournk, December 4. —The manager of the National Mortgage Agency Company reports of the local grain market as follows : - Shipping wheat quiot, at 4s "id to 4s Od ; malting barley, neglected, at lis Od to 4s ; New Zealand oats in fair demand—feeding, 2s lid to Js Id ; milling, 3s 2d to Us 3d. New Zealand oats, in bond, slow of sale at 2s to 2s 4d. Anti-English Risings In Control Asia. London, Decomber 3.— Intelligence is to hand of a serious revival of fanatical aggres sion among the native tribes in Central Asia. A largo force of Turcomans is now threatening Meshed, a city in North Persia, containing 70,000 inhabitants. It is feared that an attack in forco will shortly be mado. A disturbance has also occurred at Khokhand, where a party of British surveyors were attacked by the natives, who were, however, driven off, six of their number being killed. Twenty of tho survey party lost their lives, but none of the British wore injured. French Claims and Intentions in the Pacific London, December 3, —The claims made by France respecting tho islands in the Pacific affect the Society Islands, Marquesas and Austral Groups, tho Bow Archipelago, Kapa, and Leeward Islands, including P.aiatea. Tho details have been sent to Major Atkinson.

Mr Murray Smith is vigorously support ing Sir F. D. Bell's action in warning the Government that in the event of the Keci diviste Bill becoming law tho colonies would resort to defensive measures. It is bolioved in official circles that proposals to permit convicts to leave their settlements at periods of sir months is intended to facilitate labour in tlio Now Hebrides. Tho Fra_aco-Chlnose DlQculty.—A Porten tous Combination. London, December 3. — The French, Russian, and American Governments have decided to co-operate in adopting measures for tho protection of subjects of neutral Powers in Chinese territory in the event of an outbreak of war with China occurring. Faction Riots in Ireland. Serious faction riots between Orangemen and I'arnoUitos have occurred at Ncwry and also at Wexford. Members of both socie ties assembled in large numbers, and con tinuous rioting, lasting several hours, occurred in both towns. Calcutta, December 11.—The Duko of Counnugllt, accompanied by the Duchess and infant princess, arrived here to-day, en route, for Mecrut. Their lloyal Highnesses wore received with great enthusiasm.

St. I'ktkiisiivuo, December 3. — Tho issue of a new loan of 50,000,000 roubles, about __7,1ii0,000 sterling, is announced by tho Government.

[SPECIAL TO Pl-MCSS ASSOCIATION.]

The Soudan Disaster.

London, December 4. — Letters have reached Kordofan reporting that in the recent engagement against El Mahdi only a third of Genoral Hicks's army woro killed, including tho English olticors. The re mainder of tho troops are said to bo en camped at Rahad, awaiting reinforcements. Tho Right Hon. Geo. J. Goschon de clines to bo nominated as Speakor of tho House of Commons, owing to defective eye sight. It is thought probable that Mr A. \V, I'eol, M.P. for Warwick, will now bo nominated on Sir Henry Brand's retire ment,

Sir John Hall, who came hero for the benefit of his health, is much better.

AUSTRALIAN.

Shipments of Sugar from Mauritius,

Melbourne, Decomber 4.—The Mcs sagorios Maritime Company's steamship Caledonio arrived here yesterday. She brings Mauritius advices to November 10. At that date the weather was favourable, and returns from the sugar districts showed that tho crop was equal to the estimates, The Thurso had sailed with 400 tons for Dunedin and _!a0 tons for Lyttelton. Tho Grey was loading for Dunedin with 300 tons. Freight to New Zealand was quoted at 40s.

THE WAVERLEY HOTEL LICENSE.

The City East Licensing Court, presided over by Messrs Harper, George, Montague, and Thompson, was occupied to-day in hearing numerous objections raised against tho transfer of license from the Waverloy llotol to Powell's Dining-rooms. Mr Cotter appoared on behalf of Mr Panter, licensoo, and Messrs Theo. Cooper and Ilcsketh represented tho memorialists who objected to the granting of the transfer. Mr Cotter, in his opening remarks, explained that Mr Panter merely desired that the Court would grant a " temporary " liconso. In six months the new hotel would be finished, and it would not be equalled by any houso in tho city of Auckland and would conic up to all the requirements of tho Act. Tlio building, he pointed out,' had a frontage to Queen-street and to the proposed railway station, and the cost of its orection would bo £10,000. In answer to tho obj ction that "it was not necessary," Mr Cotter said that they only applied for a temporary license for the dining-rooms, and that tho new building was necessary to meet the require ments of tho city,the traffic with the wharf and Railway station being very great. A second objoction was, that the license should not bo granted because the application had already been considered by the Supremo Court, and that tho license had lapsed. This, he said, was a falsehood. (Mr Cooper objected to the term, but Mr Cottor maintained that what ho stated was correct.) A further memorial pointed out that a poll of the ratepayers should be taken, and to this Mr Cottor replied that it was tho duty of tho Licensing Court to decido whether licenses should be granted or not, and they should not bo bidden by thoso who had signed the memorial. Numorous other objections woro also heard and overruled, and the Court >was still sitting at a late hour this afternoon. As to tho questions of whether it was necessary to grant a license to tho house or not the decision wa» adjourned till next week.

THE TRIUMPH CATASTROPHE.

ANOTHER ATTEMPT TO GET HEIi

OFF TO-NIGHT.

Compressed Air and Hedges to bo Used.

Although the steamship Triumph still re mains firmly pinned on the rocks at Tiiitiri, the prospect of floating her off appears moro probable than when any effort has been made in that direction hitherto. Captain Brotherton got steam up yester day morning, and one of the ship's anchors with forty fathoms of chain was run out astern. The engines were then started,and went full speed astern for some time, while tho hedge was hauled on by two steam winches. Unfortunately, the after winch suddenly carried away, and tho attempt had to be abandoned for that tide. Theso ropoated efforts to get the vessel off have, however, considerably loosened her hold iijwn the rocks, and her position yesterday was sonicwliat.altcred. Her stem then had moved ill towards tho cliff for a distance of about nine feet, while her bow had shifted nearly three feet in the opposite direction. She now appear* as if swinging with the tide on a pivot formed by tho rocks, which arc through her bottom in f he forward com partment. Tho Cai'fjo V/ill All bo Saved. It is intended to tako all the cargo out of the vessel before again attempting to get her oil. The barge Mochau returned to town heavily laden with cargo from tho Triumph at an early hour this morning, and the ketches Zillah and Lizette having put out the goods which they brought here yesterday, returned to receive move cargo also early in the day. The barge Totara is still in attendance on the steamer, and she was to-day employed in laying out a second anchor astern of the Triumph. The Totara was also expected to. receive a quantity of cargo from the Triumph. The total quantity of cargo re maining in the steamer tljis morning amounted to between two and three hun dred tons, and it was expected almost all would be discharged to-day. A large quantity of coal has also been disposed of by putting it over the vessel's side, so that by to-night she will be very light.

Tho Compressod Air Idea—Whose was it?

It will be in the recollection of our readers that at v meeting of engineers held at Mr Lodder's office on Monday afternoon, a proposition was submitted by Captain llealc and adopted by those present, to the effect that they should offer to float the Triumph by means of compressed air, which, it was suggested, could be secured by means of the vessel's own refrigera ting arrangements. An agreement was accordingly drawn up in terms which appeared in our last issue, and was forwarded to Messrs L. 1). Nathan, the loeul agents for Shaw, >Savill and Company, The agents submitted the proposal to Cap tain Brotherton, and it was naturally con cluded that the engineers who siit in con ference on the question and made the pro posals would duly receive some official reply to thoir offer, but such is not the case. They have heard verbally that Capt. Brotherton has decided to go to no more expense in the matter, apart from what can be done by the vessel horself. Tho engineers were naturally considerably surprised when they heard that the method which they pro posed was to be the ono adopted in another effort which is to bo made to get the Triumph off. It is claimed that the engineer of tho steamer, previous to the pro posal being mado by the Auckland engi neers, had himself mado tho same stijj gestion, viz., that the vessel should be floated by means of compressod air supplied by the vessel's own refrigerator. This is the more strange, as one of tho gentlomen interested states that when he was on board of the Triumph on Monday morning the engineer of the vessel said that ho had not the slightest hope of hor evor being got off, and an im pression appears to prevail that the Auck land engineers should havo been consulted in the matter. Preparations for Another Attempt to Float tho Vossol. The engineer of tlio Triumph, accom panied by Mr J). Gouk, arrived in town bust evening, having como up for the purposo of obtaining certain necessary appliances which will be required in another attempt which is to be mado to got tho steamer afloat. They secured a number of pipes, which aro to be utilised in connecting the refrigerating apparatus with the foro liold so that it can be pumped full of air, and they left for the vessel in the steamer Blanche shortly before noon. Workmen were busily employed all to-day in making the decking which has been laid down over the forohold as "securo as possible, and it was also intended to cover it with a coating of cemont, which would greatly assist towards making it air-tight. The pipes having been laid in the hold and connected with the refrigerator, the engineer proposed to pump the apartment full of air, which would, of course, drive the water out of the hold and lift her up. At the samo time tho two kodges, which are lying out astern, will be haulod upon by moans of the machinery on board, and it is antici pated that the effort will prove successful in removing tho vessel from her most dangerous position. The attempt is to be mado at high-water to-night.

THE AUSTRALASIAN CON FERENCE.

Constitution of a Federal Council.

[Renter's Telegrams.]

SYDNEY, Dccombor 4.—At the Conference this morning a long discussion took place on tho subject of annexation, including Mr Whitaker's amendments to the report of the Committee. In the course of the debate Mr Whitaker made an exhaustive speech in support of his motion.

Mr Dalley, the Attorney-General of Now South Wales, submitted a proposition for the constitution of a Federal Council. The functions, as desired, would be to deal with tho following questions:—Tho national isation of aliens, patents' quarantine, en forcement of criminal process, extradition, copyright, marriage, divorce, prevention of influx of criminals, weights and measures, status of companies, and exam inations of marine disasters. It is pro posed that the Council should consist of two membors from each colony enjoying responsible Government, and one member from the Crown colonies. Yearly meetings aro to be hold at a time and place to be determined by a Governor empowered by the Queen ; throe colonies to bo able to summon a special meeting of the Council. In addition to the functions of tho Federal Council, Mr Dalley's proposition provides for tho reciprocal enforcement of judgments in matters affecting Australasia' and the Pacific.

Tho Annexation Proposals Agreed to,

At tho sitting of the Conference this after noon,the series of resolutions on the question of annexation, with various amendments thereto, was proposed and finally adopted unanimously with no substantial change from tho report of the sub-committee. except that an additional clause has been inpolated after the first as follows :—Second: The Convention refrains from suggesting tho manner of carrying out the foregoing, in tho confident belief that the Imperial Government will promptly and wisely take tho most efficient stops to secure tlio safoty and contentment of this distant portion of tho Empire. With tho iiftli clause of the series of the resolutions as agreed to (tho fourth as telegraphed yesterday) is em bodied, and Mr .Vhitaker's amendment,, providing for tho guarantee of a share of tlio cost of annexation by permanent Appro priation Acts.

It is confidently expected that the labours of the Conference will be attended with unqualified success. It is probable that the session will close on Friday next. The Committee appointed has prepared a draft of tho Imperial Bill defining tho constitution and functions of the proposed Federal Council, as reported in previous telegrams, It is understood that complete unity prevails thereon among tho delegates to the Convention.

Tho London Pross on tlio Conference.

Lon'i.on, December 4.—ln its issue this morning, tho " Daily. Telegraph," referring to tho Intercolonial Conforenco now sitting at _ Sydney, hails with acclamation the union of the Australian colonies, and wishes good speed to tho proposed federation.

EXCURSION TO TE AROHA

[BY TELEGRAPH.—OWN COKRESPONDI.N'T.]

Thames, this day. The excursionists to Te Aroha for the dinner to celebrate the opening of the battery thero have arrived here in two parties. The Rotomahana put in an ap pearance at 10 o'clock last night with Councillors Waddell, Aickin and Mac kechme, Messrs Philips, (Town Clerk), J. C, Firth, Berry (senior and junior), John Lamb, Stacey, Thos. Macflarlane, Hanmer^ and Dr. Purchas. Dr. Purchas fell ofl the bridge and strained his left foot, which was previously rather weak. The Anne Milbank arrived at 5.30 a.m., after a six hours' passage under easy steam, so as to catch the tide. Sho brought Councillors Thompson, Phillipps, La Roche, Crowther, Garrett, Fleming, and Burns, Dr. Murray Moore, Messrs .1. Stewart, (... W. Griffin (U.S. Consul), A. Bull, M. A. Clark, T. VV. Leys, J. M. Geddis, J. D. McDonnell, W. Wilkinson, J. M. Brigham, W, 11, Vinos, A. Carriek, W. Wilson, and Page. Everything possible Mas done to promote the passengers' comfort. Unfor tunately, the steamer got on the mud, some distance from Grahamstown wharf, and a delay of rather more than an hour ensued, which the excursionists had to bear with as much composure as they could summon up. When at length the tide Moated her, tho cook's galley was stove in in getting alongside tho Hotomahana, and the cook had to beat a hasty retreat in order to escape an awkward squeze. The heavy rain which fell all night:, with a north-east wind, has gone down, and there is a fair prospect of pleasant weather for the trip up the river. The Mayor anil Mrs Clark are already at, To Aroha.

MINING NEWS

[BY Tl'-.LEOI'.AI'H —OWN COI'.RESI'ON DENTS.]

THAMES,

Thames, this day. Waiotahi,—The monthly retorting took place to-day, and eventuated in a return of .lOfiozs gold, for which 220 tons general dirt were treated.

Manukau.—There is every probability of an early resumption of operations in this mine upon leaders entering the claim from both the Caledonian and Goldon Crown boundaries.

DARWIN.—Tho manager has appointed Monday next us the date upon which wind ing operations will be commenced,and from the advanced state of the machinery there seems no doubt he will be able to carry out his programme.

New Prince Imperial.—No. 2 reef looks very well in eastern drive No. 5 level,and a few picked stones were secured to-day. Gold Returns.—City of Manchester tribute, Jonathan, llozs 7dwts.; Magnolia tribute; Jiardman, 2ozs 12dwts.

TE AROHA. The Premier Tailings.

Tv AeOiia, this day.—The retorting of amalgam from two loads of tailings from the Promier is proceeding to-day. The r<_ suit is not yet ascertained, but last night the manager exacted about one and a-half ounces per load.

Tho battery returns for yesterday are as follows:—Premier, lOlozs; Colonist, G2ozs; New Find, 95ozs; VVerahiko, 23ozs. Total: 231 07.5.

Cleaning up is in progress in tho battery. Crushing will be resumed as follows :— Premier, ton head ; -New Find, fifteen head ; Colonist, ten head ; and fivo head will be re served for trials from other mines.

Smile of Fortune.—The lode, a foot thick in the low level,is showing gold on the walls.

Moa, No. 2.—Started driving at low level to drain the winze, from which the gold and silver ore was obtained some time ago.

Waioroncomai.— The lode is six feet thick, and a fine block of quartz showing gold freely.

Vulcan.—Tho manager is underhand sloping down perpendicular over the top of the Premier reef, and will start driving shortly. Somo golden stono was broken yosterday. New Find.—A splendid show in sinking level. A portion of the roef is going off apparently, but both sections carry good gold. Premier.—Tlio stuff is improving. ' Diamond Gully.—Specimens richer than any yet got from this field ware taken from the stopo yesterday. Emily.—The manager reports :—Since we started the low level, drove about 20 feet, we havo cut several small leaders, all carry ing gold. I think that about 12 or 15 feet wo ought to cut tho leader that yve are driving for. The ground is good, nearly all pick ground, so that it will not take us long to drive the distance, and it looks well to get gold in it.

ABBOTT'S OPERA HOUSE

Tiik Juvenile Opera Bouffe and Pantomime Company drew another large audience at the Opera Houso last evening, when " Les Cloches de Cornevillo" was again presented. The performance was much appreciated, and several encores were insisted upon and duly responded to. For this ovening, another attraction isannounced, viz., " The Grand Duchess," in which the Company is said to appear to great advantage.

ANNIVERSARY SOIREES

The anniversary soiree in connection with the Grafton Road Wosleyan Sunday-school was hold last evening, and largely attended. The opening tea meoting in the school-room was duly patronised by young persons and members of the congregation, under the courteous attention of ladies, Tho public meeting was held in the church, and opened with the hymn " Praise ye Jehovah." Rev. Wm. Oliver engaged in prayer, and pro posed Mr Hunt as chairman of the meeting. A bannor was spread at the back of tl?e pulpit, on which was worked in woolllowors tho device of Mr John Walker, Grafton Road Sunday-school, encircling the word "Welcome." The pulpit was artistically ornamented with wreathes of ferns, lilies, and vases of roses. Mr Hunt having made a few remarks on his past experiences, called upon Mr F. A. White to read the annual report, which was rather elaborate, going minutely into details. Tho practical part of the report stated that the school library contained 570 volumes. The amount col lected was £1(1 3s id, which was £1 12s in excess of last year. Their present staff of teachers was: Morning, 6 ; evening, 18. Tho attendance of scholars was : Morning, 55 males, 31 femalos; afternoon, 102 males, 103 females ; the average attendance being lIS. Tho receipts for tho last year wore £58 15s lid, which left them a balance of £2 12s 4d ; but against this there was a liability of £12 lis Gd. The follow ing gentlemen delivered addresses:—Mr Hunt, on his " Experiences in Sunday, school Work;" Row John Dellow, on " Homo Influence ;" Rev. A. Reid, "Sketch of the Early Years of Robert Moffatt, the Missionary ;" Rev. Joseph S. Hill, «• Memo ries of Life in London, with Anecdotes of Elderly Ladies." Tho addresses were both amusing and instructive. Hymns were sung during the evening from the anniver sary collection :j" Littlo Children, Praiso I tho Saviour," "Guard tho Bible," ftnd sovcral others. A general vote of thanks was proposed by Mr McMastcv, seconded by Rev. J. Abernothy, and carripd by acclamation. •

The anniversary soiree of the. United Methodist Free Church was held last even ing. There was a capital attendance and an excellent tea provided in the school room, presided over by tho following ladies • —Mesdames Cain, Major, Walker, Sinclair,' Tattersall, Wheeler, Parker, Watts, Bain, Coupland, Robbey, Wiikins, Bain, and Ross. Lev. S. Macfarlanc presided at the Church meeting, and introduced the proceedings. Mr R. Tudohope, tho Secretary, read a lengthy report on the progress and prospect of tlio school, showing 200 scholars and 22 tcachersin the Sunday-school; tliattheycar's revenue was £423 17s 4d, and tiiat £50 had been paid off the church debt, leaving it now at £400. The colloctions of the pre vious Sunday's services were £11 10s 2d. Addresses wove delivered by the Rev. J. Robertson, M.A., Mr Thomas"Spurgeon" and Messrs Cole, Knight, and WiUta' The choir, under Mr Tiidehopo, rendered a selection of hymns and anthems at Interval's ).n a very pleasing m^ae*. Miss Piatt accompanied on fcfca harmonium with hor usual ability,

BIRKENHEAD DISTRICT.

Considerable energy is being put fortli by settlers of this district, which is likely soon to bo a favourite place of abode for Auck land people. Several villa residences have re cently been built, and plans for others are in preparation. Land which wrs obtainable six or eight years ago at £1 per acre is non selling at from £f.O to £100, and a block of ■14 acres, purchased not so long ago at £5 sold last week for £80 per acre. A great attraction for investors has been the fact that thero is an extensive back country which will hereafter be settled upon, and contribute to the prosperity of the district Several people have bought land on account of water frontages, others to obtain a sec tion of land with native bush-; MrWeetmari purchased a few acres with kauri trees thereon, these being the nearest specimens to Auckland of the "King of the Forest " For many years the belief has been enter tained that the soil of this district was very inferior, and would not pay to cultivate but this has been proved to bo an incorrect supposition, as during the last few years practical men have tilled the land with ex cellent financial results. Orchards havo proved very remunerative—in particular those of Messrs Hawkins, Messenger Thompson, Wilson, Parish, and Johnston' Of mound crops, strawberry-growing has been ono of the chief features, some of the growers realising from two to four hundred pounds profit per year. It is surprising how veil grass takes on these clay lands and one of the parties making so much money with strawberry - growing _ abandoning this profitable industry f or what he believes to be the still more profit able pursuit of grazing cattle, and is laying down in grass the whole of his strawberry gardens. An advantage experienced in this locality is that in the driest season there is an abundant supply of fresh water in the numerous springs. On one of the hill-tops which twelve months ago was covered with scrub, ti-tree, and was esteemed the worst land in the district, there is now to be seen a luxurious field of oats and potatoes. In occupying land in this district, many of tho settlers havo first of all planted straw berries, and at the same time apple and other fruit trees, the strawberries being cultivated for four years, thereby clearing the ground yearly, and obtaining a hand some return by the sale of the Fruit while the trees were coming into bearing. In this way several have more than paid the entire cost of their homesteads. We notice that bee-farming is about to be started on land situated next to Mr Crook's.

The St. Helier's Bay Company having taken over the local Company's interest in the ferry service, there 'is no doubt that increased facilities for travelling to and fro will be provided. With so influential a company interested in the progress of the district, residents have reason to hope for an impetus being given to settlement. One of the great ex pectations of the future is the building of the big bridge across the Waitemata, esti mates for which are shortly expected from Home. If this great work were carried out, the North would be connected with the city in a manner hardly dreamt of by Auck-. land pioneer colonists. This is, however one of the probabilities of the future. In this notice of tho district we will dwell more especially on present realities, and therefore must give due prominence to the extensivo operations being carried on by the ' New Zealand Sugar Company. Approaching tho New Zealand Sugar Company's Works from the harbour, wo notico an imposing array of brick work, huge piles of cast-iron fittings, representing 1,000 tons of inotal, also copper boilers ana other bulky material for the refinery, all bearing eloquent testimony to the extensivo operations about to be carried on. Persons accustomed to travelling up and down the harbour, and who were familiar with the coast lino, will notice that where formerly a big bluff or promontory reared its bold height to the westerly breeze there is now a splendid factory site cut down as nearly to sea level as was desirable, and where the highost point of land once stood there is a substantial brick building, sufficiently ad vanced to be ready for the roof, and where once tho tide rolled up into Duck Creek, forming a lagoon—which was a favourite resort for sportsmen—thero is now dry land, formed by the material derived from cutting away the hill, and in place of the broken extent of waste land and lagoon, there is now a magnificent site for the Company's works of fivo acres of land, with deep water frontage, and with its broad acres of freehold ground, constituting it one of the most valuable properties in the colony. Viewed from the harbour, the pro perty shows to advantage, with its substan tial wharf, a fine barque,the Akaroa, (Cap tain Thomas Bowling) lying alongside, a pretty fringe of fir trees along the cliff, stretching away west, and the wide street extending north up the gradual slope, with numerous residences for workmen on each side—forming a town ship which has sprung into existence with almost tho rapidity of a gold-mining town.

The Company's Wharf.

As a statement gained currency that the barque Akaroa had carried away the wharf, \ve wero desired to moke Special examina tion of tho structuro, and on doing so failed to discern any evidence of injury having been done, but learn that tho vessel's hawser broke while getting into position. The report must have got about under some misapprehension, as the wharf is sound and uninjured. This wharf was in itself a big undertaking, its foundations having to be based.upon solid rock in deep water. This made it a troublesome work, as piles could not be driven in the easy style incidental to soma such jobs whore a few blows from the monkey drive tho piles somo feet down through mud as soft as butter. Here Mr Muir had to get holes blasted out with dynamite, and drive the piles as deep as possible. Tho jotty is 350 ft. long, with two tees each 200 ft. in length. In a few months' time it is expected that the Com-' pany's wharf will present a busy scene, with vessels continually arriving and deporting. One of Sir William Armstrong's hydraulic cranes stands on tho wharf, and will bo used in discharging cargoes of sugar. Every facility is provided for forwarding heavy material to its destination wijch the least possible handling. On the wharf is laitf Le Grand's patent tramway, with patent iron trucks by Fowler, of Leeds. The tramroad is of steel rails, locked with .iron sleepers, a simple but ingenious method, and will probably be further used in Auckland.

The barque Akaroa, lying alongside, brought a solid cargo of 1,600 tons of iron work, tho principal makers of the plant being Blake, Bartley, and Co., of Greenock, Scotland, Merlees, Watson, and Ca, and J. 11. Houston of Glasgow. In addition to the extraordinary display of ironwork, we notico on the wharf two copper vacuum pans with intermediate copper coils. Other machinery has arrived at the Queen street Wharf for the Sugar Company, among which were three boilers which came by the notorious s.s. Triumph. One of these was floated over to the New Zealand Sugar Company's works on Friday night, J

_ On going through the series'of buildines m course of erection, the first seen is for the engineers' and other workshops. The next structure is for the char-filtering department, the brickwork being up about 'r.I -v teet. Ihe found utions aro of Port Chal mers stono, and aro being laid to support tho onormo.us columns, as the manager esteems it superior in every respect to the iMelbourno stone, being tougher, and im proving with ago. Mv Muir does not speak without sufficient experience on which to hoM an opinion as to the relative valuo of these rival commodities. Having had. t.io Melbourne stone dressed and used It m connection with tho buil-jW of varipus structures, chief of which wos its use> in the erection of the Yavaville Sugar Kef.neiy which is three stovies high. The next section of the works going up is the char-roviv.fying department. Part of tho enormous plant to W used here is already elevated into position, showing that the ' f manager is tlotormined to lose no time in getting everything into working order. , mo sQle.plates for the foundations are strikingly massive . indeed> t0 a vie itor the mo*fc astonishing feature is the marvellous quantities of cast ircra to be seen, which some, in their amazement, seem to think is sutjicient plauo for a dozen refineries. in proximity to the buildings in course of erection are long rows of bricl: hacks, kilns • uenig Hspt constantly going in order to MippJy the bricklayers. By means of these operations bricks are manufactured by con tract at a very moderate cost, tho cutting away of the late precipitous hill having pro vided an unlimited supply of excellent clay. It IS a. somewhat interesting reflection that • lie high landmark reared by" the Creator is pulled dowu by man one day, and on the next as it were, tho same material is again put hack, filling, tlio samo space equally nigh, though m a more useful and orna mental fashion. The contractor has given great satisfaction by the faithful way in which he has carried out his undertaking of supplying tho required bricks. *_>a_a_ri______

EVENING^TARwS



mELEGRAPH LINE OF COACHES. LIVERY AND~3a.IT STABLES, KIRKWOOD AND LAKE-STRKBTS, CAMBRIDGE, Waikato, New Zealand. W. K. CARTER, Proprietor. TV. _K. C. begs to return his sincere thanks to his numerous friends and the public generally for the liberal Bupport he has rocelyed since comin awing business; and haa to Inform theia that In order to meet the requirements of this rapidly adwmctng district, he has added large ana commodious additions to his promises, -which are second to none In Now Zealand. Tourists tor the Hot Lake Country sup plied with Saddle Horses and Buggies on the .shortest notice; also, Experienced Guides and careful drivers. Buggies and Saddle Horse 3 always on hire. Orders by telegram or otherwise punctually attended to. , Cambridge, Octobor 6,1883. T> OVAL MAIL LINE OF COACHES, ALTERATION OF TIME-TABLE. the Royal Mail Coach (carrying passengers) will, on and after 6th October, 1883, and until further notico, run to tho following Time- Leave Cambridgo for Hamilton Junction Rail way Station daily at 8.15 a.m.; returning from Station tt> Cambridge on arrival of Train from Auckland. ."'__..». »«■ _, Leave Hamilton for Te Aroha on Mondays Wednesdays, aad Fridays on arrival of Train from Auckland; from To Aroha on Tuesdays. Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 7 a.m. catching tho 2 o'clock Train at Hamilton Junc tion for Auckland. BOOKING OKiriOEB J Gwynne's Hotel, Hamilton West; Colemans Hotel, Te Aroha; ,sj»d at my Promises, Ki?k wood and Lake-stroets. Cambridge. W. K. CARTER, Proprietor. Cambridge, October SSB3. TMPORTANT NOTICE, LAST WEEK OF DRAPERY SALE AT TOE "BON MARCHtf," A. L E .S U E U 11, I j In Thunkinf the Residents and Gentry of Auck . Hid andsjuburbsfortheirmarked apprecia .;,-! ■._ his bona fide Sale, begs to inform litem that he will Continue to Sell at the same Low Prices as hereto fore. AU the Latest Novelties will from time to time ho added to eanh depart ment, and every ARTICLE MARKED IN PLAIN FIGURES. A L' P. is continually purchasing Job Parcels for Cash, and iVlarklnjv such Goods gt a Very Small I'i'olii, and triisLs in so doing to merit the Continued Support; of hiit patrons. Special attention is solicited to tho fact that the last WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY In each consecutive Month will be oboerved as ' ' UEHNANT CLEARING DAYS. Note the address— "BON • - M A It C X E." «'bo n march k," 217, Queen-btbbkt, \



Special Advertisements. DR. W I L X I N S, OCULIST AND AURIST TO CHRISTCHURCH HOSPITAL (several years at Royal Hye Hospital, Moorliclds, Lou don), arrived in Auckland on November 28, and will remain about ono month, to treat Eye. Ear, and Throat Diseases. Dr. Wilkins also adjusts the Sight for Accurals Glasses and Spectacles. Consui.TlXO-roomb :— Mr Graves Aickin's Pharmacy. Queen-street. Hours:—!l to 12 a.m,, and 2 to 5 p.m. TTvR- H'AINES begs to inform his Patients that he will Remove on Monday, December 3rd, to PRINCES-STREET (third houso above Northern Club). Hours of Consultation, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Mr Shurland's, Shortland street ; and from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at private Residence. T? X S. S. TIIIU MP H. 11 CASKS SEASONABLE GOODS JUST OPENED. FLOWK..S """" lunyIjINKN DRESS CAPS UNI)! , ;I: ,,oTHING WIDOWS'CAPS IjAmKS , SIUCVEBTS MILLINERY"ATS EANCY DRESS OOODS REAL LACK COLLARS NEW TRIMMINGS FOR DO. EMBROIDERY COLLARS LACK BORDKR HANDKERCHIEFS MILLINERY BONNETS CHILDS' SPUN SOX AND HOSE IMITATION LACKS I,INKN HANDKERCHIEFS STRAW HATS r „ „___ CORSETS AN» BANDS REAL LACKS MANCIIKSTKR GOODS SUNSHADES LAI)IKS . SPUN „ 08 E FEATHERS UMBRELLAS Five Per Cext. Discount for Cash. Dressmaking now under Management of Miss Jackson. Milne & Choyce. VINT'S WHTSKY. SCIENTIFIC J ACT. New VVliK' Is maddening and poisonous.no ma"i.ir how blended, colonicd, or ■ agreeably flavoured. VINT & SONS, ll.ilfiuit, Ireland (established 38 years), at present hold iminoiiTO utoek of thoir Old VV'__li_-uaTUUku Whisky, and can ensure to tho trade—through their Agents—a really PURE, OLD, UNADULTERATED, AND WHOLESOME SPIRIT, the quality having been pronounced equal to OLD FRENCH BRANDY. In bulk and onso. to be had from A. HEATHER, Aoknt. Head Colonial Ofllco: Melbourne. FLESH FORMING FOOD for Injants. AICKIN'S FOOD FOR INFANTS is prepared locally from maked centals, ac cording to the recipe of Baron Leibig. It is an approved suusTmjTE for Motiikk's Mir.K; FATTENING, NOUMMIIVG, and INVIGORATING. Sold In Canisters at Is Gd. AT THE PHARMACY. 1 QUEEN-STREET. ! FT.HORNTON, SMITH, AND FIRTH i HAVE FOR SALE : "Crown" Flour, in sacks, 100's and 50's " Champion" do. do. do. "Cantab" do. do. do. Sharps ; Bran Wheat TV- E"W CRETONNES, FLOORCLOTHS, &c„ &c. i _ WILLIAM R. BRIDGMAN j Has just received a Splendid Lot of New Floor r cloths, choice patterns, from 18 indies wido 5 to C feet, from 9d yard/ being 20 per cent, under usual price. . Splendid Patterns in New Cretonnes, Cheap. i i JUST OPENED, ! THREE HUNDRED (£300) POUNDS WORTH of Travellers' Samples in great variety, and having been purchased at a very Low Prico, will be sold very Cheap. LARGE AND WELL-ASSORTED STOCK of Men's, Boys', and Youths' Clothing. Sldrts, Hosiery, Hats, &c„ exceedingly good value. t NICE LOT NEW SATEENS AND PRINTS jußt opened; 5.000 yards Dress Materials, from Ijd, splendid value. Patterns Free by Post. 3 1 Five por cent Discount on Cash Purchases r over 20s. f JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, UPPER QUEEN STREET. i ' > 5 "OETIRING FROM BUSINESS ! i JX 1 SELLING OFF! \ SELLING OFFI j SELLING OFF! 3 ■ __ _ John. Ij ec k. RETIRING FROM BUSINESS. RETIRING FROM BUSINESS. RETIRING FROM BUSINESS. HIS WELL-ASSORTED STOCK ! 'SELLING OFF! , SELLING OFF! | SELLING OFF I ! AT, AND UNDER COST RRICE. ! RETIRING FROM BUSINESS. , 1 RETIRING FROM UIJSINESS. RETIRING FROM BUSINESS. ! PREMISES LET. SELLING OFF I SSELLINO OFF! SELLING OFF! 1 STOCK MUST BE CLEARED. » ALL ACCOUNTS not paid beforo 31st OCTOBER will bo handed to bis Solici tor for recovery. one month at and under cost peige. Continuation of cheap drapery. & clothing sale, H. ATKINS Bogs to thfiwk his numorous Patronß for tho wonderful success of his CHEAP DRAPERY AND CLOTHING J SALS, I Aai #lso to announce that ho ixm _jj,neeeded in ' securing from the Now Purchasers a Irfj-se of his present prqrpises. Jti, ATKINS Begs also to say -feat as the WHOLE STOCK Has been RE-MARKED IN RED, Ho will continue his Bale for a Few Weeks Longer, and the Whole Stock will still be ofttefKni AT EJSAyy REDUCTIONS Off Uie'HSual price. ALL-NEW GOODS WILL BE SQLp For a short time at about WHOLESALE PRICJ3, -j JOB STOCKS F.N DRESS MATERIAJLS, ! JOB STOCt OF ANY DESCRIPTION i AT ANY .PRICE. i CHEAP LINES ARE jGONSTANTI/Y BEI . BOUGHT,.AND ARE ALL MM.KBO i AT VERY LOW PMCES, ' \ H. ATKINS, * 1 ~■••■ _ DRAPER. CLOTHIER, Jto. t



Tho monthly inspection parade of the City Guqrds will take place at. the Drill-shed this evening at'f.SQ o'clock. All absentees wil be lined. A shipment, of Japanese curios has just been received hy Messrs Charles Kelsey & Co., of Queen-street, direct from Yokohama. They are similar to those brought here by Mr Single ton twelve piqnlhsngo, and consist of bron/.os, tea sets, .jars, plaques, laequerwaro, &c, and will ho found very suitable for Christmas gifts. Theso goods were specially selected by Mr Sineleton himsolf, and arc thoroughly represen tative of Japan. Washing Mado Easy.—Use Price's Soap Kxlract. Safe, sure, economical. Sold by all respectable storekeepers,— [Advt.] i



Mayfield,—The public are invited to in spect this valuable property, as it will bo sold to-morrow. It contains native bush, is well sheltered,-and well watered. It Is divided into largo homesteads, and is chiefly bounded'by Government roads. Investors in freehold pro party will find it to thoir advantagoto attend tho salo at Arthur's, at 12 o'clock, as alittle money wdl buy a great doal of land which is sui'o to double in valuo in a short time, but must now be sold.-[ADVT,J



Before buying elsewhere, call and sco the New Machines at 11. S. Chambers's, 70, Queen-st. Bicycles. —The celebrated '' Royal Mail,' tlio best made, can be tried in our rooms.—Apply Shakoßpcar and Co.. opposite the Market, Queen-street.—(Advt.J If you want a really first-class Sewing Machine, buy tho Domestic; it ha 3no equal.— Shakespear & Co., opposite the Market, Queen street, solo agents,—[Advt.J



Messrs J. A. Tole and C. W. CAVE.lato of Travcrs and Cayo, Wellington) have ontero.. into partnership as Barristers and: Ifcffilffi? and wil carry on business at their laiUce. J»«t Bank oJKew Zealand, Queen-streetK'