SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

SIGH WATER {^S&, a StINSET.-This Evening, 5.35. SijvklSK —To-morrow Morninir, n. 2.> MOON'S AGK-Xcw Moon, 2nd, 1.53 n.m.

ARRIVALS.

ntngarooma, s.s., Carey, from Russell lofll, b.s., Amodco, from Whangarci Myrtle, briga'ntine, I.ano, (put backj

DEPARTURES.

Wellington, s.s., Stephen»on, for Tin-anga Argyle, s.s. Norris, tor W han?«ir<-i Ruby, 8.a.1 Hayr, for Manga wai Inwards Coastwisk.—Vixen, from Barrier, with 50 tons firewood, 23 eases honey ; Mercury, from Tairua, with 2li.:SL'ft timber. I.WXI shint;k-s. Si hides; Fannie, f:.'om Wh:uif?upona, with 23 000 ft timber; Kauri, from Port Charles, with 45000 ft timber; Progress, from Putau. with 28 000 ft timber; Mana, from Tuirna, \vitli 24,0001't tunber; Marion, from Whangarci, with 10S tons coal. Outwards Coastwise.—Fannie, for \\'han gapoa; Kburi, for Port Chnrlcs; Mabel. lor AVnangarel; Progress, for Wlinngnpoa; -Mana, for Tairua. The brlgantine Seablrd cleared at the Customs to-day for Thames via Rockhampton. Neither the Wellington, Argyle, or Ruby loft last evoning, owing to prevailing bad weather, They sailed to-day. The brigantino Myrtle, bound for Tonga, tint back this morning, owing to very heavy weather experienced outside. The lona arrived at noon to-day with 30 sacks , Rum, 12 boxes eggs.'J sucks fur.KtiH, and tlie fol lowing passengers: Mr and Mrs riincuton. -Airs Clark, Mr and Miss Donnelly, i)r Alacdonnjd, Messrs Vickcnnnn, McLean, Lougbottoni, -Miss i McLean, and several others. The s.s. Ringarooma arrived from liusscll at 3 o'clock this afternoon. Slie will proceed South about 6 p.m. Passengers .'—Misses Hoc. Chitty, Bennett, Mince, Blontaguo, Mi'sdamcs Sewell. Williamson, and Doghcrtr, Major .Shepherd, Captain GascoiKiie, .'Messrs Cumpbell, SpcdilinK, Knowles, Hesketh, G. Williams, tillmoru, Dariea, Cave, Hollowny and E. L. Isaacs.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS.

Douglas, s.s., John9tone, from Waitarn Hannah Mokau, a.s., Dale, from Waitava

DEPARTURES,

'Maud Graham, schooner, Jorgcnson, for Lyttlc-

ton Sea Gull, brigantlne, Bern, for Dunedin Douglas, s.s., Johnstone, for Waltura Hannah Mokau, 8.5., Dale, for Waltara

Tho stoomors Douglas and Hannah Mokau arrived from Waitara last evening. The former brought 23 head cattle, 150 sheep. JO sacks bran, 2 tons sundries, and Messrs Bailey and Webster as passengers. Tho lettor had 17 head cattle, 135 sheep, and the following passengers:—Mr Nixon, Mr and Mrs Leahy «nd family. The Hannah Mokau returned to Waitara at 1 a.m. to-day, with 4,100 feet tunber, 19 baKs manure, 20 boxes soap, 10 cases keroelne, 10 bores candles, 20 boxes tea, 20 mats sugar, 1 case peaches.

Tho s.B. Douglas left for Waitara at 11.30 a.m. to-day with about 10 tons cargo and n\ o passun gcrs.

KAIPARA SHIPPING.

Kaipaka Heads, Thursday. Sailed, to-day: Aratapu, brixantine. for Syd ney! Robin Hood, brig, for Melbourne ; Anne Wilson, schooner, for Lyttclton; W. C. Wont worth, barque, for an Australian port.

Heleusville, Thursday.

Tho s.s. Kina wont to Makarau last evening to tow out the brig Wave to Heleusville to load. The s.B. Durham sighted yesterday a three-masted schooner coming in. She has nunu up the Wairoa River to load.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

M'aitara, this day. Sailed : Macgrcgor, for Onchungii, 5.15 p.m.

Sydney, August 30. Sailed: Te Anau, for Auckland

Port Chalmers, August 30

Sailed: Wairarapa. s.s., for the North. Pas sengers for Auckland:—Mrs Watson, Messrs Robertson (3), Thomas. Iloil' &, Debara, Hux table, Arnold, Hopkins, Graham, Robertson (2), and Thompson. For Russell: Miss lilundell, and 10 for Sydney.

London, August 2fl. Arrived: From Lyttelton, ships Firth of Lome, sailed May 16: West KliUni;, sailed April 19; West York, sailed April S3; Carnarvon Castle, sailed May 10. From Tiinaru, Normu, sailed April 25.

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Star Offlco, Friday.

MESSRS HCNTpR AND NOLAN'S WEEKLY IUSI'OHT. Horses: The supply has boon remarkably short, but there has been an Unproved demand, and an upward tendency in prices. Loss than an avorago number were submitted by auction at tho Durham Yards on Friday, but conipotit lon was good, and many moro could have been placed at prices satisfactory to vendors. Cnttlo: There has been increased animation 111 the inai- ket, tho supply has been nn averago one, and there has been an appreciable-advance in the prices of fat and storo stock. On Tues day at Nowmarkct, thore was an ordinary supply of fat and dairy stock, but a ahort one of stores. Fat beasts were higher In value, and for sovoral lots i!ss per lOOlus was given, and 22s 6d was tho minimum. For dairy cows and store stock there wus no uuticuublo alteration in value, but veal calves sold at from 18s Cd to 38s. Sheep were tolerably plentiful, but a much larger number could have been dis posed of both to grazier and butcher. .Store wothera sold at from Us 9d to 15s; fat from 18s 3d to 23s 9d; weaned lambs, 12s Gd to lCs 3d; sucking lambs, 18s. Pigs: Scarce, but c f good description; Id per lb, live weight, was g yen.

ALFRED BUCKLiVNS'S WEEKLY REI'OBT. At the Haymarkot, on Fridur, the precedhiK wet day prevented tho usual supply of hay and straw. That brought forward wns at late values. Grain -Ras sold in increased quantity. Oats, 23 8d; maizo, 3a 3d per bushel. Horso stock were yarded in full numbor, and met with a steady demand, almost all brought forward being sold. The buggy horsoand ltarnessbrought £68; heavy draught, £32 to £39; medium and light harness, £12 to £30. On Tuesday there was a largo muster of fodder carts and brisk inquiry. Prices for good hay ranged from 5g to 6s Bd per cwt. Hides have maintained the rise noted In last week's report, and ranged from 2id to 3d l-Bth for station hides, and a parcel of choice heavy butchers' hides brought 4d I- Cth per lb., or 27s each; butchers" skins, <s 8d ; station skins, is 8d to 2s "d each; wool, sld per lb.; bones, 4s perowt Tho timber salo atßaird's Wlmrf, on Saturday last, was very numerously attended. Prices rangod from is 3d to is 9d, and tho greater part from 7s to 9s per 100 feet. At Papakura, on Wednesday, a full muster of catttlo, a largo number being quiet cows forward In calf, wore yarded, and found ready buyors at fully late values. At Remuera, on Thursday, the dairy cows yarded were genorally very low in condi tion. They wero dull of sale, ranging In price from S3 los to £5 ss. Store cattlo: More plentiful thanforsomeweoks;pricesrulcdlow. Fat cattle: In less than usual supply, and of good quality; prices advanced about 2s 6d the. lOOlbs.; averages wore 8 steers, Jas. Taylor, £9Cs3d; 21 steers, \V. Taylor, £8 18s; i(i steers, C. J. Storoy, £8 12s 8d; 18 steors, 11. and J. Good fellow, £8 10s. Fat calves were unusually numerous, but maintained their Into values. Sheep wero in less than usual supply, but barely maintained last wock's prices. Cross-bred wothers brought from I6sto longwools, 18s 6d each. A fow lambs, first of this season, brought 15s and 19s each. Pigs were abundant, but in good demand throughout the sale, at fully late values.

Messrs J. and E. Leydon, auctioneers, report business a3 brisk to-<lay. Household furniture, drapory, carpets, earthenware, and tinware, being on demand. Soap and candles at market prices; flour, &H per ton; potatoes, £1 10s; onions, lid.

Take of Geneva, the best you ran find, Wlih the purest and highest of spiriw combined ; Tln-juiep of the berry, the essniue, as found In the foie-its of Switzerland, prlssua and re- Jusl Im'.i thorn together, ami draw off the scum, I Ami Wolkicm riuniuoAM SfiiNAi-fH is the re (iidu-um. - [After Gilbert uuil Sullivan 8 Patience.]

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails will Close as under :- This Day. For Wliangaroi Heads, Parua, Waipu, "Waianga rci, Kamo, Tangihua, and Mangapal, per lonu, at 4 p.m. l'cr Kingarooma, as follows:— For India, China, Japan, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent *i Europe, at i p.m. . For Gisborne, Napier, Southern Ports, Aus tralian Colonies, and United Kingdom (via Suez and Urindißi, and via Naples, for letters, Ac, specially £0 prepaid and ad drudscd), at 5 p.m. Moiiev Orders, for Southern Porta and Aas irak'an Colonies only, at I p.m. For regis tered letters and newspapers at 4 p.m. Late letters till 5.20 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Saturday, tst September. For Walwora, Mahurtwgl, Matakana, Manga wai. etc., per Rose Casey, at 0 a.m. For Waterford, Tuurongn, etc., per Rotc mahana, at U a.m. For Thamos, per Rotomaliana, at l.'M) a.m. For Tairua, per Mana, at, 2 p.m. For Tairua, per Morcury, at 3 p.m. Monday 3rd inst. For Coromandel, per Coromondel, at 11.30 a.m. For- Whitiangi and Upper Mill, por Argyle, at 3 For fauranga, Ohinomutu, and Opotiki, per Glcnelg, at 4 p.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, Whangaroa and Mongonui, por Wellington, at 4.30 p.m. Ttesday, 4th inbt. For Taranaki and Southern Ports, por Rotoma hiiiiii, at U a,m. TUKBDA*, 11th September. Per s.s. Zealumlla as follows :— For Sandwich Islands, Unitod States ot America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West. Indies, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe at 1 p.m. For money orders, rcgiaterad letters, and newspapers, at 11.30 a.m. Lato letters, bearing an extra fee of six peneo in addition to the postage, will bo received by tho Mall Agent on board tho steamer up te tho timo of sailing. This mail will bo de duo In London on Mon day, October 22nd, 1883.

S. B. BISS, Chief Postmastor. Chief Post-oillcc, Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

August SI, 1883.

Abbott's Opora House— Buhver's "Rlcheliou," 8 p.m.

Choral Hall-Hcrr Schmitfs second Grand Concert, 8 p.m.

Profossor Bernard's New Waltz, at Miss Hill's, Ponsonby, 8 p.m.

Newmarkot Wesleyan Church—Gospel Tem perance Mission, 7.30 p.m.

Northrote Hall-Meeting of Ratepayers, 7.30 p.m.

St Thomas's Hall-Vocal and Instrumental Concert, 8 p.m. Epsom Hall-Mcoting of Rosidents, 7.30 p.m. Aloxandra-atreot School-room— Clcndlnning's Elementary Singing Cluss, 7.30 p.m.

Birth.

KDGELOW.—On 29th instant, at Helonsvillc, tho wife of Dr. Kdgelow, M.R.C.S., of a daughter.

Dcnths. LAURIE.—On the 30th AugU6t, at her mother's reuidenco, Woymouth, Manurevra, Martha A. Laurie; aged 30 years. SCHMIDT.-On 30th Instant, at North Shpro, Auckland, Albert Knijlftnd, son of George Kdmund and Phoabe Schmidt; agojl 8 months. —Southern, Melbourne, and Sydney papers please copy. The funoral will leave to-morrow (Saturday) at 3 p.m.

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

FRIDAY, AUGUST 51, 1883.

Kor tho cnuso that lackß assistance, ■ For tho wrong that needs rcaistanco, For tho future in tho distance, And tho good that wo can do.

NoTHTN'o has come of tho inquiry into tho cause of the outbreak of typhoid fever on , board tho ship Oxford— the report of tho Commission being wonderfully weak, in conclusive, and unsatisfactory. Tho Com missioners were—Mr Grabham (chairman), Dr. Henry, and Mr Hackworth, and they eat In Wellington, where they had every facility for examining witnesses who could throw light upon tho circumstances. A number of lives havo beon sacrificed, and tho colony put to considerable oxponse in maintaining the crew and pa»sengors in quarantine, yet tho Commission cannot see that anyono has blundered, or is responsible for such a state of things. They do not think tho disease was duo to the filthy state of the Emigrants' DepOt at Plymouth, nor will they say It was caused by tho dirty condition of the ship, though thero was sufficient evi dence as to both, The connection bo tween dirt and diseose is thoroughly recog nised, and yet the Commissioners (two of whom are medical men) cannot find any can sativolink In tho caso which they have been considering. To any ono reading the ovi denceitmustbeopparentthatthoconditionof i the dopot and the ship was favourable to the outbreak of disease. One of the male irrtmierants deposed that thoy were over crowded in tho. Plymouth dopot. "Tho bedding was not dean, and there was plenty of vermin. The ship was dirty when they went on board the first voyago. There was a coating on the floor which they had to scrape off, and which smelt very bod. It appeared as if hide*) had beon carried In the vessel. The ship was never properly cleaned during the first voyage, am! the passeugers complained very much. The drinking water was like that out of a clay-pit, and smolt offensively. Tho potatoes were bad, and the salt moat was rotten. Witness, his wife, and a child of four had to lie in a bunk 3ft liin wide. The water in the tank that witness gauged smelt something lik» sewage.1' TJ>is< evidence was corroborated by>other.witnesses— some testifying to bad smells from the drains at Plymouth depot; but'soveral witnesses stated that the ship was perfectly Clean on the second voyago. If, from irfucn evidence, the Commissioners could not definitely state tho cause of tho outbreak, they had surely sufficient grounds whereon to condemn the treatment of the immigrants, Both on shore and on board. This Qiey have not done, and tho inferenco to bo drawn la that the treatment received ia that whjch is pre scribed and apuroved by tho New Zealand Government. Unless Parliament takes action on tho report, such is tho impression that will go to tho Homo country, and tho offect on intending colonists may bo easily understood.

Tho Stab Saturday Supplement will this week contain:—Continuation of tho new and interesting tale, " Out of the Storm, or Grace Wray'sTrials," " Random Shots " by Zamlel, " A Naughty Girl's Diary—She Goes to the Seaside," "The Future of Auckland as Predicted in the Present," "Tho Balloon Troo," "Mystery and Murder," "A London Donkey Show, "The Training of Musical Prodigies," " The Soldier's Son," "Profossor Sinimn on Aus tralia," Selections for Ladies, Best Thoughts of tho Best Men, Science Notes, Tho Garden, Sporting Notes, Field Sports and Aquatics, Gossip from Stage and Studio, &c, «c.

The second of the series of intorprovincial football matches will be played at Dunedin to-morrow, on the Caledonian Society's ground. The Otago team Is a very strong one, and is backed in the Southern city at 2 to 1. Odds are much lighter in Auckland, but although the Otago men aro the favourites hore, it is expected that superior training and the advantage of a hard ground such as that on which tho match takes place will pull our boys through vic torious.

A eat-horse,bolonging to Thomas Btanton, becamo frightened on the stand last night, and clashed furiously up Queen-street until reaching the foot of Wyndham-street, where it was stopped by Mr B. Coyle. The cab was slightly injured and tho glass smashed.

A considerable amount of businosa was transacted at the City Council last nieht. No loss than fifteen letters were received and dealt with, whilst amongst the petitions presented was one praying for the carrying out of extensive works at tho northern end of that thoroughfare. Messrs Mowbray were authorised to re-open negotiations for the purchase of the Array and Navy Hotel and ground on which it stands as Town Hall sito. The appointments of Mrs Bryce as matron and Dr. Goldsbro' as medical officer of the Lock Hospital wero con firmed, thus bringing the Act practically into oporation. Tenders were ordered to be called for works in Liverpool-street, A .report of the proceedings appears elsewhere.

Mrs Woods, who is suffering from burns received in tho late firo at Parawai, Thames, is progressing favourably ; but hlio has not yet been informed of tho death of her husband, as the effects of the shook on her system are feared., ..':■,

New Zealand war medals are now lying at tho Militia and Volunteer Office, Auck land, for the undermentioned men, who are requested to call at the above office and receive them, between the hours of 10 and 12 daily:—John Campbell, 3rd Waikato Regiment; H. F. Harrison, Taranaki Military Settlers; A. Johnson, Armed Constabulary :J. Crotty, Ist Waikato Regiment; P. Meagher, Ist Waikato Regiment; Joseph Shirley, Napier Militia ; Samuel Charles, Mauku Forest Rangers; James Curlett, Colonial Defence Force ; W. H. Lefknard, Patea Rangers; James Murray, Wairoa Rifles; George Spence, Wanganui Native Contingent.

The three boys, James Thompson, John Parker, and Win. O'Leary, who absconded from Kohimarama School on 26th July last, have not yet been traced, and tho conclu sion seems inevitable that they have perished in their rash attempt to oscape by sea. A boat belonging to James Conley, waterman, was missed on the night that the boys departed, and it has not been found, the supposition being that it has been lo«it with the boys. Conley complains that he is deprived of the means of earning his living.

The annual meeting of the North Devon G.M. Company convened for this afternoon, lapsed for want of a quorum. At a meeting of directors held to-day it wan resolved to call an extra ordinary meeting of shareholders to con sider the financial position of the Company and decide whether they should continue to work the mine or otherwise.

The money acknowledged in tho Star of Wednesday waafor Widow Woods, of Newton, and not for Mrs Hudson, whose list was closed some time ago. The case of Mrs Woods, which is a most deserving ono, has scarcely mot with that generous response which the charitable public are wont to give to appeals made to them ; but it is hoped more subscriptions will yet bo given.

An information under the Licensing Act has been lnid against George Isles I'anter to the oflect that lie, being a holder of a license under the Licensing Act, 1881, did unlawfully commit a breack of the lnOth section uf the said Act by selling to John Fleming Stewart, on tho 30th instant, liquor—to wit, ono glass of sherry—at a place where ho was not authorised by his liconso to sell the same—viz., at a building known as Powell's Dining Rooms, in Queen street. The caso will bo brought for the purpose of testing the legality of the trans fer of tho license of the Yvaverley Hotol to Powell's Dining Rooms. On the applica tion of Mr Thoo. Cooper, His Worship con sented to hear the case on Saturday morn ing (to-morrow), at half-past 10 o'clock.

A football match will be played between tho Hobson and Nelson Clubs to-morrow. The following will represent tho Hobson :— McCarthy, Pinker, George, Gillespio, Groy, Elliot, Donald, Murphy, Holey, Stevens, Pilkington, Holey, Groy, Stevens, and Smith.

Potronol, whicli won tho President's Cup at tho coursing match yesterday, belongs to Mr (iillard, of l'apatoitoi. *

Several new companies liavo bwm formed for tho purpose of working To Aroha mines, viz., the Chance, with a capital of £20,000, in shares of £1 each, nil paid up; tho Vermont, with a capital of £20,000, in shares of £1 ; the lurornesß, with a capital of £2r>,000, In shares of £1 each, 2,000 sharos to be rcKorved for tho benefit of tho company.

A drunken man from the ranks of tho toilers was picked up in the breezy suburb of sober Parnell in a state of mental dark ness, and charged with being drunk. In tho words of a facetious constable, "ft drunkard in Parnell is as rare as a dead donkoy." Sergeant JackHon s di'uy shown on an averago "threo por annum," which it was alleged was "tho correct thing." Tho elderly man, when interrogated, denied boing "topsieated ;" ho fell down in a tit. But tho worthy sorgeant was convinced that this was an error of judgment; ho smolt liquor, and tho man could not stand. " Ho," was the roply, " I was troubled with the Kfirumatics in my knee*." Finally, how ever, ho confessed to taking a number of pints, and could not tell how many. This was sufficient for a conviction followed by 5s and costs. The old man Irritated tho top of lifs head with his fingers, muttering "a crown."

A great loss will bo felt by the inhabitants of Mangore and tho surrounding districts by tho Bale of the well-known Clydesdale entire Argyle. We understand thatMesyrs Wallace BroH., the ixipular owners, have sold him to Mr Hamilton, of Moesvale, New South Wales. Argylo'x stock for strength and action havo not been suqvipsed in this province, as was evinced at tho last Agri nultural Show by two of his fillies taking first and second prizes against imported stock.

Tlio Temperance Dramatic and Enter tainment Club gave an entertainment and bull in tho Lorno-streut Hall last evening, but, owing to tho inclemency of tho weather, the audience was not a very largo one, the hall being about half full. A capit.il programme was presented, consist ing in the first part of songß and instru mental music by tho different members of the Cluh, and, in the second part, of a laughable farce. The principal items of tho former part were rendered by Mcsdamcs Cottingham and Foi, Misses Cottingham (2), and Walmesley, and by Messrs Marson, Worrall, Francis, Cartor, and Curtis, tho last-named gentleman giving a clarionette solo. " Brother Bill and Ale" was tho title of the farco, tho characters in which were sustained by Misses Lotham (2) and Danks, and Messrs Davidson, Broadrib, and Richards. At hal/-pnst ten tho hall waH cleared, and dancing commenced, which was kopt up till an early hour this morning, there being about forty couples present.

To tho Editor: Sir,—l beg to call tho attention of the humane residents of Mount Albert to the most disgraceful plight of the Mount Albert public pound. Poor dumb animals are shut in for tho period of three weeks, and havo been forced to lie down in a perfect quagmire dnring the past bad weather without a bit of shelter, the liny given them night and morning being con verted into a bed, thus causing them to be half-starved. If cattle aro to tmffor because their owner does not releaso them, I, among many others, call It a great shame, for if this is not cruelty to animals I do not know what is,—l am, Ac, A Constant Rkaukh.

Wo understand that tho Hospital Com mittee at their meeting yesterday agreed to recommend to Govornmentthat Dr. John R. Bond be appointed Hospital Surgeon, to succeed Dr. McKollar. At tho time of tho appointment af tho latter gentleman, Dr. Bond stood noxt on the list of selections, and since then ho has been practising in To Aroha district, where he is still. Dr. Bond has won goldon opinions from tho pcoplo of Te Aroha for his skill niul urbanity, and whilo his removal will bo keenly felt by them, there is littlo doubt but ho will bo a great acquisition to Auck land. Tho appointment, it is probable, will bo promptly confirmed by Government, in which caso it is expected that tho new Hospital Surgeon will enter on his dutios noxt week—Dr. McKellar in tho meantime continuing to do tho work of tho office.

An inquest was held yesterday afitornoon at tho Lunatic Asylum, before Dr. Golds bro' and a jury, on the body of John Tumor, who died on tho 29th inst., agod 72. Con stable Henry Clarke represented the police The evidence showed that Turner was ad mitted to tho Asylum on tho 15th of February, 1553, suffering from mania ; ho never recovered ; took to his bed on tho 9th, and gradually sank. Ho has no relations in tho colony. A verdict of "Death from natural causes " was returned by tho jury.

To tho Editor: Sir, — The spirit of "Copernicus" In last Saturday's "Supple ment" recalls to my mind tho free lance and worthy knight of Shakespeare's fertile brain, who objected to the superabundance of bread which was put with his favourite liquor. This facetious spirit is not satisfied with spoon food. I onco know a man who boiled his coffee in an oven, and baked his cake in the kettlo. I think that this spirit is known to me. I have an idoa that ho has a weakness for roast bcof and plum pudding. This gentleman evidently does not approve of Mr Lambert's cooking. May I ask him to do me the favour to accept the loan of a gridiron ? Mine is somewhat rusty, yet it. may answer his purpose when he brightens it up. I am only a little fpllow myself, but if this belligorent spirit would try a fall, ho shall bo accommodated. It is freely admitted that Mr Copernicus understands the art of shaking other people's apple trees. When h<f grows apples himself, he will spend more timo in mending the gaps in his fonco. I plead guilty to the enjoyment of a good joke, and could envy this gentleman his hilarity in another place; but it seems to lny mind out of order in connection with such a discussion. Sir Isaac Newton is proof against ridicule, but yet I myself sometimes entertain a doubt of the soundness of his logic, and it is my intention, when opportunity oilers, to bring in an Indictment ngaintst one or moro of the theories with wlu'ch 1h asso ciated tho name of this eminent philosopher, I desiro nothing better than sevore criticism myself, and if any rag of mine will not bear tho friction of tho washtub of science, a back seat will suit very wetl.—l am, Ac, Richard Marsu.

The annual meetings of the Vulcan and Lord Stanley Gold-mining Companies, an nounced for this afternoon in Mr D. G. MaeDonnoll's oilioe, lapsed for want of a quorum.

Next week will witness ihe oommonoo merit of the debate on " Conditional Im mortality " between Mr G. A. Brown on the affirmative side, and Mr Hutson, of Helens ville, on the negative. On Tuesday, Wed nesday, and Thursday evenings, the matter is to be discussed in the Theatre Royal, and as it has been arranged to have a six nights' debate, it will be continued in the week following. The arrangements have been made by a committee, and it would seem that Mr Hutson is not to be deterred from the undertaking by the action of the Auck land Prtebytery.

Herr Sclnnitt'a very attractive concert, which was so successfully given in the Choral Hall last night, is to be repeated in its entirety this evening. The programme is full of novelty, variety, and charm, and the execution is highly effective. Boc chcrini's "Minuet, Haydn's "Toy Symphony" (which took the "house" by storm), and Offenbach's "Roseof Auvergne," are attractions not often found in juxta position, and they certainly combine to form a most enjoyable entertainment.

Tomorrow Mr Pooley's popular concert takes the form of an ojxiratic and miscel laneous entertainment, and the programme should prove successful in filling the Theatre Royal with lovers of good music. Mr Angelo Forrest, who appeare for the last time prior to his return to New Plymouth, will.pluy Thalberg's splendid fantasia " Don Pasquale," besides other selections. Tho vocalists embrace Madame Pooley, Miss Green, and Mr Gordon Gooch, who sing the trio "My Lady the Countess"; and the firtit-inentioiied lady also sings " Alas I thoss Chimes," while Mr Gooch gives "Tho Old Brigade." The other artistes are Messrs Buruhum and Hanna, who appear in popular operatic pieces. Wo believe the succeeding concert to this will consist of Irish music.

The match botween tho;Banka and insur ance Companies, postponed from last Satur iluy, will take place on the Metropolitan gound to-morrow, kick off at 3 p.m. Tho following will represent the Insurance Com panies ; —Messrs Maeky, Pierce, Brown, Owen, Heather, Sibbin, Williams, Par sons, Crocker, Knight, Henderson, Newell, Binnoy, Moore, Dickoy, Graham, and Fair burn. Tho Banks : Messrs. Barton, Beale (2), Clayton, Coates, Kissling, Culpan, Gibbin, Goodhue, Greegson, Martin, Har rington, McConnick, AfcCausland, Patton, Severn, Snodgrass, Tyndall, Wood, T. Young, Knight. If tho weather keeps fair there ought to bo a large number present, as a band will be in attendance.

To the Editor : Sir, —Does not the outcry in certain quarters against the CD. Act somewhat resemble tho antagonism shown at first to vaccination, whicli was spoken and written against as an impious attempt to cvado Gods laws? It is stated in Mr Hughes'a letter, in last night's Star, that tho divine laws do not permit un immoral and hygionio law to co-exist. There aro still somo people left who consider it immoral to insure one's life, as interfering with tho laws of Providenco, Can any law be immoral whioh has for its objeot the lessening of a virulent pestilence t Pending the arrival of the Millennium, men will nover be freu from sin, and inußt tho sins of tho fathers be forever visited on tho children in tho shape of scrofula, consump tion, &c. 1 Mr Hughes states tho op ponent* of the Act are the most oonvorsant with tho evil. Jn charity 1 must think thoy know but little of what they write and speak so glibly about. Ho states his [mrty are tho most anxious to lessen tho evil and reclaim its victims. If ho, why has no uho been made in all these years of tho funds for v Fallen Women's Homo in Auckland ?—1 am, &c, Publican ami Sinner.

SCINTILLATIONS.

A GNAWFUL nuisance—Rats,

" Richelieu" in tho Opera Houbo to-night.

Spanish womon are great S'noras. Dunedin Deep Fishing Company is wound up. Gas-lighting to bo introduced in Wluvu Asylum. Pretty button-holes for city men—Stocks. Mr T. 11. Ross is elected Chairman of Dunedin Harbour Board.

Rather rough on Brown for "granny" to call him v Philistine.

Still more gold prospecting liconses being applied for in Canterbury. Lightning; struck a brewery in Milwaukeo tho other night, and made everything hop. Chief JiuFgo Macdonald goes to Canter bury to hold a Nativo Lands Court.

There nro sixteen applicants for tho post of Harbour-master at Dunediu j to be con sidered on Monday.

D. B. Stuart, drowned near Dunedin two days ago, was suffering from liver and kidney disease, The expenses of the olectfon and installa tion of Archbishop Benson as Primate of tho Anglican Church ainouudte to £30,000. A Temperance Union, for political purposes, iR being formed in Canterbury. When you hour a man say the world owes him a living, don't leave nay hums lying around loose.

John Thomas, a gold minor, had been seriously injured fit Greymouth by a bank of earth giving way. Another man with him escajxsd uninjured. Tho Government has sanctioned tho plans and site of tho proposed ocean steamers, jetty at Lyttelton. Doea Mr Brown feel flattered at being compared to a giant, and how does Mr Hutaon like tho prospect of going forth to battlo, like David, amid tho sneers of his brothers ?

Plans and specifications for gas-works at Gisborne aro being prepared by Mr Atkinson, manager of Auckland Gox-works. Tho cost, including site and mains, is to be 10,000, and tho works will supply about 2,000 cubic feot of gas daily.

THE OPERA HOUSE.

" HaMLET " attracted a largo -audience at the Opera liouso last ovoning, notwith standing the very unfavourable weather, Mr Sheridan's lino impersonation of tho young Prince was much appreciated. He was frequently applauded during the per forrnanco and was twice called before tho curtain.

" Kiohollou" To-night.

This evening Bulwor Lytton's groat drama " Richelieu " will be produced, with Mr W. E. Sheridan in the titlo rftlo, and Miss Davenport as Julio de Mortimur, For Saturday tho management announce that, at the earnest request of numerous patrons, " King Lear will bo repeated for positively the last time.

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

[Before H. G. Scth Smith, Esq., R.3M.J Dkunkauds.—Two natives pleaded guilty, and paid tho fines.

Wife and Batons.—Charlos Mack sur rendered his bail, and stood forth in answer to a cliargo of failing in his duty in rolation to his wifo and four children.—Mr Burton appeared for the wife, Ellen Mack, who wns sworn, and deposed that an order of 10s a week was modo upon lior husband, and that a balanco of £!> wus owing.—Dofondant said ho did owe tho money. He had paid by instalments. —Complainant acknowledged certain amounts, but still £5 was owing.— Mr Burton asked for an order upon defen dant to tako immediate effect.-—Ordered to pay £5 within a fortnight, and to find one or two sureties in £50 for tho regular pay ment of 10s a week.

A Cow Case.—George Chester, a farmer of Devonport, was charged with haying allowed his cows to wander on the Boach Road, Devonport, on tho sth inst.—Con stable Hutchison proved tho coso, and de fendant was finod'ss.

Full-acud Dons and Poodles.—A num ber of persons were charged with failing to comply with the Act in relation to their household favourites.—Mr Uoldio prose cuted.-—l'oter Colemnn .said tho dog be longed to his son, and ho had provided a collar. Fined Is.—Charles Bull, dog only h'vo months his last birthday. Defendant li'ad drowned tho pup. Mr Goldio believed the dog had boon consigned to the watery deep. Win. Monro deposed to tho existence of tho terrier on tho 13th inst. It had no collar oh. Tho dog must have been of age. Mr Bull was .sworn, and dowsed that tho dog was born about April. Ho was sure it was not six months old. Dismissed. — Alfred Muffin, withdrawn.—Mrs, Whittle stated that sho had sold her dog. It wns too big. Sho was not able to get a collar. Is.—Alexander Barrett. Is.—Geo. Strang and Win. Stevenson. Adjourned for a week.

Hqr, Step, and Jump. — Charles Kensington was charged with a breach of the Railway By-laws by leaping into a carriage at the Auckland station while tho train was in motion.—Sergeant White said the defendant could not bo found.—With drawn.

John and Susan. —John Dorr appeared in answer to a summons to shew cauko why ho should not contribute towards tho support of hia wifo.—Tho caso was adjourned in order to give defendant an opportunity of consulting his solicitor.

CABLEGRAMS.

[rkutek's tblkorams.]

The French in Tonquin.

Paris, August 29. It is announced that, the French Govern ment has assumed the control of the finances and customs of the kingdom of Annam, in accordance with the terms of the treaty re cently made with the monarch of that coun try.

Paws, August 30. A circular, signed "Phillippe, Comte de Paris," has beeu issued to-day, formally notifying the Courts of the doath of the Comte de Chambord.

Vienna, August 29.

Count Kalnoky, Minister of Foreign Affairs, has gone to Hatzburg to meet Prince Bismarck. Nothing has transpired as to the object of the interview.

[special to press association.]

The Land League and the Redmond Mission.

London, August 30.

The Irish Land League have passed a resolution thanking the Messrs Redmond, and expressing gratification at tho success of their mission. They also oulogiso tho generous manner in which the Irish Aus tralians have subscribed towards their cause.

Mr Parnell has predicted that the Government will shortly introduce a bill for the self-government of Ireland, Tho Eruption In the Straits of Sunda.

Melboebnb, August 30.

Tho Dutch Consul-General in this city received a telegram this morning from Ad miral Van Jogh, commanding the naval forces in Java, confirming the statement that a tremendous seismic eruption had occurred in the Straits of Sunda, and that the charts of those seas can no longer be re lied upon. Lighthouses in the Sunda Group have also been overthrown.

AUSTRALIAN.

Earthquake in New South Wolea.

Svdnky, August 30,

A severe shock of earthquake was ex perienced at midnight at Kiama, a seaport town 90 miles south of this city. The dwellings in tho town and neighbourhood wero severely shaken. At a meeting of tho Diocesan Synod to day, it was resolved that a Synod hall should bo erected as a memorial of the late Bishop Barker.

CHORAL HALL.

Herr Schmitt's Grand Concert.

Tnii manifold attractions of Iltrr Carl Schmitt's concert at-the Choral Hall last night proved potent enough to secure a capital "house," despite the dotorrent In fluence of a fierce nor'-eastor, accompanied by heavy rain. In 'the- body of the hall, fully throe-fourths of tho neata were occupied and the gallery was crowded, while many wining die audience appeared to hare como from a. considerable distance The initial number upon tho programing was the overture to Aubor's pretty little comio opera "Zanotte." It is in its composor'scharacteristicallymelodiousstyle, and affords ample scopo for display on tho purt vf the wind instruments. Mr Clough played the oboe aolo in it very accurately, albeit tho orchestral accompaniment dragged a little, and Mr Impey's clarionette playing was also highly effective. Mr KdmiHton (baritone) gave tho well-known aria '' 0 InftAice," from Ernani." Ho was In good voice, but tho dolicate lights and shades of tho piece wero not sufficiently well brought out. Still, it was a satis factory performance of a pretensious piece. The other vocal selections were: Blumon thal'a song, "Tho Bend of the River," by Miss M. Halstead ; the valso song, "II Bacio," by Mrs Alexander; and that familiar dnet, for soprano and tenor, "Tho Singing Lesson," which Miss Stevenson and Mr Hubert Yates rondored with such success us to win a cordial encore, Mr Yates's by-play in tho rile of mentor raising tho suggestion that he must have been "to tho manner bom." Arditi's val6o song was Uio best of the vocal pieces, Mrs Alexander finding in it opportunity for ex hibiting to advantage the quality, compass, and flexibility of ncr fine mezzo-Bopruno voice. Tho tiino, however, was rather slow. An encore followed, for which tho lady bowed her acknowledgments, Boccherini's delicious little Minuet, which tho Mendelssohn Quintette Club used to give with such acceptance, waa artistically played by Messrs C. Hemus (first violin), J, Remus (second violin), J. C. Clough (tenor violin), H. F. Edger ('cello), and J. McKonzio (double bass). Tho instruments wero in thorough accord, and the subdued ripple and delightful measure of the composition told with their proper effect. It hud to be repeated, for tho uudionco would take no denial. Everyone was metaphorically "a-tiptoo witli expectation" bo far as "The Toy- Symphony"- -is concorned, and too general anticipa tion of a treat was not belied. Upon tho eurUin rising," Mifis Eva Stevens was discovered at tho conductor's Rtand, baton in hand, with the performers upon the toy instruments marshalled in front of her, and immediately behind thorn the other players. Tho division of .orchestral forces was as follows :—First violins, Miss Stevens and Mr J. Hemus; 'cello, Mr Edgor; second violins, MiHH Stevens, Miss Westpfabl, and Mr Stevens; basso, Mr McKenzie; piano forte, Mi.ss F. Clayton. Toy Instruments : Cookoo. Horr Schmitt j bells, Mr J. Impey; trumpet, Mr H. A. Windsor ; .nightingale, Mr C. Homusj rattle, Mr H. Brett; drum, Miss Fonton ; triangle, Miss Roy. Judge Fonton was to have played the trum pot, and Mr Heath the triangle, but business unavoidably called them away.' It need scarcoly bo remarked thai. the. Symphony is pretty, for that al most goes without saying, socing that this wan a species of musical work for which Haydn has a very high repute It is both bright and attractive, and is pervaded by a taking mirthfulncss, while tho effect of tho toy instruments must be heard in order to bo fully appreciated.' The twittering of tho nightingale and the recurring notes of Herr Schmitt'e two cuckoos were highly enjoyed, while tho occasional springing of tho rattle and the tinklo of the bells wero equally diverting. Miss Stevens (one of tho moßt apt of Herr Schmitt's pupils) wielded her buton with all the resolution and pre oision of an experienced chef d'orchtstre, and tho execution of tho work was very satisfactory. Tho performance of Offen bach's operatic trifle, " The Rose of Auvorgne," by Mrs Cooper (Flonretto), Mr Edwards (Alphonse, tho cobbler), and Mr Stuart (Ploito, tho blacksmith) wns not by any means tho least attraction of the concert. Truo, tho stage was rather limited, and the players v little awkward in tho "business" of these things rather intensi fiod than lossened tho enjoyment of tho audiouco. Mrs Cooper woro a dainty littlo costume, and acted with considerable arch noss. Mi Stuart appeared in hia shirt alcoves with leathor apron, smutted face, and coal-black hands, and Mr Edwards pro duced quite a sensation with his curly blonde wig, long-tailed and capacious bluo coat, red vest, and striped pants. Mrs Cooper gave the opening song, " Heigh ho ! Which to Choose, With sweet ness, while Mr Stuart, in his first number, gave proof of his capacity for sustaining a high note at a lovol pitch. Hiß apostrophe to the stewpan was good. Perhaps the best of the concerted pieces was tho duot between l'iorro and Alpnonse, "You Blacksmith, Look You Hero," the. latter part of which was moat effective, the tenor, in agonised but dulcet accents, singing "Oh, dparme, I tremblo, I tremble, and tho baritone, in boisterous delight, responding "Ha ha, jio trembles, he trembles." The laying of tho tablecloth, the preparation of the broth with frequent hostile manifestations on tho part of Pierre, and the discussion of- the meal, with the amusing discovery of its various singular ingredients, form abundant food for laughter, and the incidental music is pleasingly interpreted. Mr R.. W. Sceats rendered valuable service as stage manager and prompter. To-night the en tiro programme will be repeated, and as tho weather is now more clement than it was yesterday, there is little doubt but that the hall will be crowded. Herr Sohmitt fa certainly desorving of a " bumper " house.

THE FOOTBALL TOUR.

[by toleoraph.—own reporter.]

Preparations for To-Morrow's Match.

Dunedin, this day. As the day of tho great contest between Auckland and Otago approaches, the in terest becomes intensified. Otago, taking a leaf o»t of our book, are having some practice; however, their training cannot possibly be so good as ours. Ever since the tour began, tho order of the day has been— Bath at six, walk at seven, breakfast at hali-past, practice once daily, and to bed at ten o'clock. The extreme abstemiousness of our men is favourably commented on, and occasioned surprise. Otago will play seven men behind scrim mages, and we will probably do the same ; three half-baoks, four three-quarter-backs, and one full back. Arneil will probably be one of these. lam sorry to say that War brick's anklo is still sore, and great cave will require to be taken to have him fit for the match. Ryan's kicking is a little off, but Arneil, if anything, is improving.

Probable Result of the Match.

There is very little betting, but 3 to 2 on Otago is to be hod. Our men anticipate victory in the (jvent of a dry day. I, how over, saw Otago play at Wellington on wet ground, and astho W ellingtonians beat them in every point—collaring, running, fending, and kicking—l am not fearful for the result of Saturday's contest. With Wellington will be bur toughest pinch. It is understood that our tactics on Saturday will be loose Bcrimmage, the forwards heeling out the ball and passing to tho Hpoelers. The old College boys in the team, in cluding Cartel', wore entertained to dinner by their old master, Mr Farquhar Macrae, on Thursday night. Yesterday wo were driven to Blueskin, and in the afternoon had a puntabout at the Caledonian Ground. Last night tho team attended tho Rinking Club Fancy Dress Ball, at tho Garrison Hall, but did not dance.

SPOUTING NEWS.

The A.J.C. Spring Meeting.

[reotrr's cablegram.]

Stdnet, Thursday. Tiik Australian Jockey Club Spring Meet ing opens on Saturday, when the Derby will be run. Martini-Henri is a firm favour ite for the race, tho betting being 6 to 4 against the field. The latest quotations for tho Great Metropolitan Stakes, run on Tuesday, aro aa follows :—

7 to 1 agst Fiwt Demon 10 to 1 Navigator 12 to i Norman

Of the horsos in training, nothing is go ing better than First Demon, Masquerade, and Yately, while Sir Modred has much im proved. _

TIDAL PHENOMENA.

[lIV TELEGRAPH—OWN CORBK3TONDKNT.]

Coromandel, this day, The Tidal Wave.

The tidal wave predicted by Captain Edwin arrived about mid-day yesterday. It rolled in a height of four feet, according to die Btatemont of an eye-witness, who was standing at the time on the Union Beach Wharf and was frightened at the sight of the huge roller, -which was followed by a second of less magnitudo. A year ago Captain Edwin predicted a snow-storm on the Tokatea, bnt It did not come till last week. The wave, however, was up to time, and rolled in with commendable punc tuality.

[BT TELKUIUPH —PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Christchurch, this day

The movement of yesterday's, tides at Lyttelton U still irregular. At 8 p.m. the tide rose 7 feet 11 inches, which would be quite 2 feet more than ordinary higli water. Then it foil four feet within an hour, and ugaln rose 6 inches, showing that the submarine disturbance had not spent itself. On Tuesday night and Wednesday tho water in the harbour was also thick and muddy.

MR. SHERIDAN AS "KING LEAR."

Tub eminent tragedian now playing tho leading parts hi tho high-class playß being produced in Abbott's Opera llouso lias conßontod to ropro duco to-morrow (Saturday) night his masterly Impersonation of "King Lear," in which rolo competent critics olaim ho excels all provious or living actors. The following letter from Mr J. G. De Libra appeared in a Sydnoy paper during Mr Sheridan's lato season thero :

Sir,—Mr W. K. Sheridan's recent imporsona- Uon at tho Gaiety Thoatro of " King Lear " is a Uiing of unusual excellence and will long bo. remomborod by thouo who wore tcrtunato eiiough.to see It even onco, much moro by those who, like tho writer, carof ully watched it the four succesaivo nights of its lato porform anco with ever • growing wondor and de light. Tho author of theselines is tolorably con versant with most of tho great histrionic triumphs of the last quarter of a cqnttiry. Ho woll remembers Viardot-Gurcla's fides in "Lo I»roph*lo," Tltjon's Iphigonla, Kachel's Phedro, and Helen Kaucit'a Imogen, Charles koans Louis XI., Henry Irrtag's lUchard III.; and tho Coriolanus, Uio Kicholicu, tho Bottom, the Mal volio of that most poetical of actors, as of managers, tho lato Samuel Phclps, aro to him as "household words." But he has novor scon a Lour to equal Mr Shoridan'a. Other actors play tho part, wid often play it very badly. But Mr Bhurldan la Lour. It waa a happy idea of tho management to pro duce "King Lear" so quickly following on the hocln of " lloinlot." J'or if Hamlet be tho ouibodi uient of a vacilating will, swayod to and fro as by tho rocking of tho wind—* shuttlecock for conflicting emotions, varying conjectures, and subtle moralisings to play with. Lew is a Titan, drawn upon horoic scale, o'erwhclniing us with his Toatnesß, lite the "David" of Michael Angelo or Handel's "Israel in lteypt Ho is*.in ©Very, .way' tho antithesis. /. of Hamlot, though;both ore plated- in touch tho Banio Boml-nifltorie surroundings. At Kbinore tho othor characters of the plafare all sup. ordlnate, and BOftoned into middle di3tanco, that they.' may net distract thff. oye from', tho elaborate unish of the central flguro.uißritain nono are bo, but each is boldly drawn and highly coloured, and tho canvas is tilled with figures far übovo llfo sieo that they may copo and harnioniso with tho dimensions of thin mighty From the first appearanco of Mr Sheridan as the fine old fellow, striking, majestic "ovory Inch a king," to tho casual playgoer, .perhaps, Btill halo an evor, " frosty, but kindly, though to tho moro attentive observer already of nge sappod BtroueUi, throughout tho long and terrible experiense, when, oven in his madness, he fools "how Bharpcrthan a serpent's tooth it in to have ft thankless child," to tho passing from "the rock of this rough world' of the poor, weak, shattered wrock of royalty—all was mapped out with extraordinary con sistency, and oxecutcd with unerring skill, Tho ottket of the terrible curso that Lear calla down on Goueril '(ono of the most appalling things known upon any stage, conjuring up as it docs, from out. its very dopths oil indignation tho tendorest images of lovo) was altogothcr cowering. Dohvcred, as it was, with a suppressed intensity that tho writer has never soon excelled, one seemed to wither undor it, and creep into one's chocs. Hardly less overpowering waa Mr Sheridan in tho conclusion of tho second act, when with wits failing undor his load of injury and anguish, ho brooks from ltogan, and rushes out barc-hoaded into tho storm. To witness tho various striking details with which the mad sconca woro elabo rated would cover pages. Ono of tho most noticeable features of this part of tho imper sonation was tho over-recurring imporious bearing of the man who had grown old m despotic nilo. Tho writer recollects being much surprised that this should havo escaped bo able and cultivated a Shakspearian • scholar as 31r I'hclps, while Mr Charles ICean simply burles qued the whole affair in tho days when half London went mad over that clever upholsterer s " Shakspeorlan (!) revivals." Another excellent thing was the marked connection in the King's disordered mind botweon tho words " dio for adultery!" and those he had addressed to Hogan whonhomot her at Gloucester's castlo anont "hor mother's tomb," followed by tho revulsion of feeling as ho ends these foul solf-musings, and sadly bogs tho "ounco of civet to sweeten his imagination." But in one respect, liko Mr Phclps, Mr Sheri dan's strongest point is pathos, to which his musical and well-trained voice is of no small aid. The treatmont of tho two last acts by theso two gentlemen is Bingularly alike, though Mr Sheridan's is the finer of the two, Tho gradual recognition of Cordelia as Uio weak old king awakes; tho quiet, broken spirit, tho still strayed wits, tho tenderness with which he fondles hor whoso constant, boundless lovo has hold together those frail shattered fragments of noble ruin—all aro most masterly, exquisitely pathetic, intensely touching. But of tho closing scene—the scoro or so of lines over Cordelia's body—what shall bo said of that? Tho fair Cordelia's answer, "Nothing!" Let thoso who wish to know it, as enacted by this great tragedian, go sec it for themselves. Thero are things in heaven and earth too beauti ful to touch. One of thorn is Lear's death. On this, at least, if speech bo silvern, siloncc is goldon

PARLIAMENTARY.

[BY TFXF.GRAI'H. —OWN REPORTER.]

Wellington, this day

Life-Bolts for Pilot Crows. Onk effect of the fate accident at Nelson, whereby the pilot-boat's crew was drowned, has been to elicit from the Minister of Marine, in reply to a question, the informa tion that all pilot services are not under the control of Government. He, however, gave the assurance that, in all the services that

wore under the oontrol of Government, in structions would be given to the pilots to compel the crew to put on life-beltd in rough weather. All the pilot-boats, it is understood, are provided with a sufficient number of life-belts.

The Dargavillo Charges Committee,

The labours of the Dargaville-Atkinson Inquiry Committee, so far as taking evi dence on the first charge is concerned, are ended, and the report is expected to be made to the House on Monday or Tuesday. ! The evidence both for and against is voluminous, and is now being printed. I understand the Committee wul state that in their opinion the allegations made are not proved. It has taken nearly four weeks to arrive at this result. There is no time to go into tho charges this session. Trivial Questions. There were not bo many questions on tho Order Paper to-day as there have been lately, and these mostly of very small im portance. Members generally either took occasion to absent themselves during the interrogation, or, following Mr Montgomery's example, sought what solace they could find in the arms of Morpheus and under their hats. Just as au illustra tion of tho questions which the assembled wisdom of the land think necessary to put to the Ministers, mark the following:— Whether the materials forwarded to Cobden (a village somewhere on the West Coast) for construction of a footbridge, now abandoned, may be used for the erec tion of a footbridge at some other spot 1 ■ Whether Government are aware that a cer tain School Committee had refused tho use ' of the school building to a Wesleyan parson, who desired to give religious instructions on one day in the week after school hours? j Whether Government will favorably consider the petition of several people asking for more suitable railway sitting accommodation at I some country village ? Upon what proofs of titlo was a Crown grant issued to a ' European at Kawhia? how the land was purchased ? and had the land been surveyed before tho issue of such grant ? Whtther Government will give effect to the report on a petition relative to fencing in the rail way line rnrining through petitioner's pro perty? Whether the work of plant ing trees on the railway between Timaru and Winchester is performed by contract? if so, does it include the supply of trees ? also, if tenders were invited for the work, and if not, why not? Will the Government place a platform and siding at Sandy Knolls Road between Rolleston and Aylesbury, on the Springfield branch, before next harvest ? also, will they cause a pas senger platform to be erected at Kowhal Pass junction, between Annat and Spring field, on the same line ? Will they arrango to have, a letter-box attached to guards' vans on the railway line between Napier and Makatoku similar to those on the Wel lington and Masterton line ? What num ber of books wero reported as missing from tho General Assembly Library on last stock taking by the librarians ? I just give these as samples of tho questions put to Minis tors, and after seeing them, who shall gay there- was not truth in Mr Pyko's denun ciation of Parliament as a mere road meeting, only for tho consideration of parish Dnsiness ? No wonder the comfort loving and respectable Montgomery takes advantage of tho hour generally occupied in hearing Ministers their catechism to enjoy a quiet, refreshing nap. Surely most of, these frivolous questions might as easily bo answered by Ministers if they wore quiotly asked in tho departmental offices instead of taking up tho time of the House with such trivial matters. The truth is—there are re porters with their ears open, and members aro desirous of posing before their con stituents, and giving the newspapers tho , opportunity of informing them that the wanto of their districts are being attended to. It is all very well, of course, to take caro of thoir districts, but it is hardly in koeping with tho dignity supposed to attach to Parliament to introduce parish business of this kind into its proceedings.

Tl;o Council and the Native Lands Bill.

It is understood that tho Nativo Land Laws Amondn.ent Bill will moot with strong opposition in the Legislative Council, and that a strenuous effort will bo made to throw it out unless Government will agreo to the insertion of a qualifying clause saving existing arrangements of an equitable character made in good faith. Unless this is consonted to, the second reading will pro bably be stoutly resisted. If carried, then the struggle will be renewed j in Committee, if not previously on tho motion for committal, and every en deavour will bo used to compel the insertion of the desired proviso. It is reported that if the bill is carried in its present shape the result will be to compel the immediate de struction of 300,000 or 400,000 sheop which ' aro vow depastured on runs held on nativo tenure in Wellington Provincial District— an occupation which could not continue if tho Act wore passed without rendering the owner of tho stock liablo to a penalty of £500 a day or so. Business, in the Council. In the Legislative Council yesterday after noon, the Premier moved that the Standing Orders be so far suspended for the remainder of the session as to enable Government bills to tako precedence, and to be passed througn all stages in one day. Colonel Whitmore moved, as an amendment, "That all the words after 'precedence' bcomitted." After eomo discussion the amendment was nogatived on tho voices. Mr Ackland then moved a further amendment to tho effect that the motion should not apply to any bill that has not appeared on the Order l'apor, excepting the Appropria tion Bill. This amendment was negatived on a.division, by 19 to 17, and the original motion was carried. Drowning in :Now Zealand Rlvors. From a return furnished to the Hpuse, tho interesting but melancholy facts are ascertained that since IS4O no fewer than two thousand and fifty-eight persons have been drowned in Now . Zealand rivers; while from the Ist of July, ISB2, to Juno 30th, 18S3, seventy people met their death in this way. • .-

Fever on tho Immigrant Ship Oxford.

The Royal Commission upon the immi grant ship Oxford have reported upon the depot at Plymouth, the condition of the ship when joined by tho emigrants, and other matters in connection with tho out break of typhoid fovor aboard that vessel. From tho ovidence of emigrants, complaints of the dirty state of the establishment, and the want of such ordinary comforts as the severity of the weather rendered essential, were almost universal; though, as good health prevailed amongst its inmates previous to tho first part of the voyage, the dirty condition of the depict is not con sidered to bo the cause of the disease. The Commission report favourably gener ally on the ship, stores, and management, but remark that it would bo wiser in future to avoid sending immi grants by a ship, in which an epidemic re cently occurred, and from which the cargo had not been removed, so ns to enable a thorough, overhaul, fumigation, cleaning, painting, and disinfection of bilges. Atten tion is drawn to tho want of proper super vision of the single women during detention in tho depflt at Plymouth. Yvith regard to tho outbreak of fever on the first voyage, although the water was the probable cause, it is quite possible that the diseaso may have been introduced in another way. The illness of assistant cook may havo had some thing'to do with it. Fouling the bilge waterin emptying tho tanks is considered of greater importance as a possible ca-uso of the re appearance of the disease. The report, on the whole, is vague and disappointing. Reports on Petitions. Tho reports of committees on petitions aro as follows : —Petition of J. S. Ryan, late of 57th Regiment, praying for 60 acres of land to be granted him in consideration of his services. This claim having already been considered by tho Naval, Military, and Local Forces' Land Claims Commission, tho Committee cannot re-open tho case. —Petition of Mr Prendergaso and other residents of Pokeno, praying that tho building and site of the old school house be made ovor to tho settlement for the purpose of a public hall. As the matter is dealt with by the Special Powors and Contracts Bill, the Committee have no recommendation to make. The petition of Thomas Mifjloy and others, praying that Lots 256, 263, 259 and roadway bo con voyed to the Education Board of Auckland for increasing the school accommodation at Tauranga. As the matter can only be dealt with by a bill of the Legislature, pro moted by the local authorities, there is no recommendation.

TOWN HALL SITE.

Negotiations for the Army and Navy Site

to be Re-opened.

Tiik question of re-opening the negotia tions forthe purchase of the site of tho Army and Navy Hotel as a site for the proposed Town Hall was brought forward at the meeting of the City Council last evening by a letter fromMessrsMowbray. The following in a. copy of the letter:—Auckland, August 29. To the Mayor and Councillors of Auckland • Gentlemen, —In common, we believe, with a large majority of the publicof Auckland, we regret to notice that the negotiations of the City Council for the purchase from Mr .laggei- of the Army aud Navy Hotel as the site for the proposed Town Hall and other public buildings, have failed. In the interests of several owners of property in that locality, we respectfully ask the Council to re-open negotiations with Mr .Tagger in the hope of being able to arrange the matter with him and to secure what is generally admitted to be the most desirable site for the Town Hall. In asking this per mission, we wish the Council to understand that wo act gratuitously in the matter, and. will consider ourselves amply rewarded if we succeed in carrying the transaction. (Signed)—J. M. and J. Mowbray.—The Mayor moved that the Council expresses its willingness to purchase the site on the terms previously named, i.e., the sum of £3,800, giving Mr Jagger the right to apply for the transfer of tho license.— Cr Bell moved as an amendment that Mr Jagger be offered £3,000 for the site. He said the way in which they had been played fast aud loose with justified this action.—Cr Aickin supported the resolution, and stated from his own knowledge that this preposaldi4 not emante from Mr Jaggor, and was, in fact, entirely independent of him. He was still of opinion that this was the best site, and they should secure it if possible on the previous terms.—Cr Thompson did not care who tho proposal emanated from so long as they could get the land.—A lengthy discussion took place on the point, in the course of which Cr Thompson said the owner pro bably recognised the fact that the owners of the adjoining properties could shut out the light from his house ; while Cr Masefield thought it desirable that be fore they attempted to closo with Mr Jag ger they should ascertain the terms upon which they could get Mr Lally's land.—Cr Fleming thought that before they re-opened negotiations they should let Mr Jagger say what his terms are.—There was no seconder toCf Bell's amendment, which lapsed.— The Mayor's motion was negatived, and an amendment by Cr Maseheld, referring the matter to the Finance Committee, was agreed to.—A further amendment by Cr Thompson, giving tho Committee power to act, provided the previous offer was not exceeded, was also negatived.—After a lengthy discussion, Cr Crowther moved as an amendment that a letter be sent to Messrs Mowbray, informing them that the Council is still willing, to, abide by its pre vious offer.—This amendment was agreed to, on division as follows:—Ayes (10): Crs Garratt, Burns, Harper, Aickin, Thompson, Waddel, Crowther, Phillipps, Stevenson, and the Mayor; noes (7) —Crs Masefield, Bell, Devore, Dacre, Field, Mackechme, and Fleming.—Tho Council negatived, on division.a further amendment by Cr Devore, providing that a letter should be sent to Messrs Mowbray asking them how much Mr Jagger was prepared to take for his pro perty.—ln regard to Mr Lally'a property, it was stated that if he was not prepared to part with it on reasonable terms it could be taken under the Public Works Act.

WRECK OF THE BARQUENTINE ALMA.

Nautical luqulry.

(Before H. G. Seth Smith, Judge, and Captain Frascr, Nautical Assessor.)

A nautical inquiry into tho wreck of the barquentine Alma on Elizabeth Reef, on August 3, was held at tho Police Court to day. •

Mr T. Hill, Collector of Customs, stated that this inquiry wns held in accordance with the provisions of the Shipping aiid Seamen's Act. The Alma was wrecked about 300 miles off the coast of New South Wales. A preliminary inquiry was held a day or two ago at the Custom House, when it was found necessary, owing to disclosures made in ovidenco, that the inquiry should bo held before a Magistrate. He would submit that the evidence taken at the pre liminary inquiry should bo read to tha several witnesses.—This was agreed to. John Patterson deposed: lam master of the barquentino Alma, an iron vessel of 162 70-100 tons, built at Dunedin 29 years ago. Tho crew was composed of seven men, including myself. I hold certificate of competency issued in New Zealand for the grade of master, No. 275. There was one mate. Cargo was timber about 10S.000 feet—about 216 tons. Had ho passengers. Sailed originally from Wanganui, where I loaded timber. Made no deviation from voyage bound for Rockhampton. Left Wanganol on 23rd July. Got clear 6| Wanganui River, but was becalmed the night of the 23rd July. On the morning of the 3rd August, about 12.30 a.m., vessel struck on the Elizabeth reef, tide being about first quarter flood. The atmosphere was dark and clbudy, with lumps of fog from S. W. to E.N.E. ' Wind was variable from S.W. to E.N.E., sea running from S.E. When the vessel struck was about S.E. by E. from Brisbane. Vessel became a total loss. I be lieve vessel was insured. Do not know if freight was insured. Cargo was also total loss. Export value, I believe, was about £650 at Wanganui. The value of vessel was about £1,800. The crew was Bayed by the ship's boats. The day we left the ship wfc were picked up by the barque Afton. No salvage was; rendered/ Was supplied with all the required charts published by the Admiralty, but 1 do not' know the da.tea. The rock; was marked on the chart. Had two com passes. The standard was in the binnaole j the other was in my' room below. Cannot tell when the vessel was swung last. Cargo has been changed many times since she was swung. Cargo could not affect compasses. Masts, sails, and rigging were in good order. Was well found, and deficient in nothing. Two bowor anchors were about 10 tons each, another about 4 tons; kedga anchor about 2 tons. Had two chain cables —one about 60, and the other about 75 fathoms. Vossol's draught of ■water aft was 9 feet when we left WanganuL There were two water-tight •■ compartments, ttjfr they were of no use. The chief officer was in charge of vessel at time of stranding. Had seen no land marks or beacons priot to leaving the Straits. At the time of stranding, ship was standing N.W. by W. After stranding, ships' head was N.N.E. No measures were taken to avoid stranding ; was aground before aware of it. The owners of the vessel are Henry Guthrie, William Henderson, and John Patterson (myself), of Dunedin. Examined by Captain Fraser; I knew where I was on the Ist of August, Cannot remember latitude and longitude, but took an observation.. Oa the 2nd August, the latitude was 30deg, 9vnin. ; longitude, 16Qdeg. 13inin. Trx>m noon of second sloped my course N.W. magnetic, on a N.W. by W. course. The course was half-a-point easterly deviation. Wind had been variable from S*\V. to E.N.E. Keptonthat courso till she struck. From noon on 2nd to moment of striking, i , attribute the current being the cause of tho differonne in position. Thta is my first trip in the vessel. The vessel was not swung provious to voy age.. Was provided with Graham's patent. Have been in an iron ship before, Bid not think it necessary to swing her before sailing. Had no deviation card for the compass. Found deviation by Aevmuth compass. There was half point deviation east. It should have been my watch on deck; the mate had come down to call me. The- rock was just covered at half-tide^ Could not see anything when she struck. I believo the niato had just come down. There was one of the seamen on the look-out. Immediately the vessel struck she stuck fast, It waa very dark—not moonlight. She went with hor port side on tho reef. All that I could see as tho result of it was that the rudder was gone, and the stern post broken. Stayed on board till daylight, then got out tho boats and left her. Water was not over her decks athigli water, about fifteen feet rise and fall of tho tide. Had no cause to suspect mate of sleeping in his watch. Ho was very vigilant. All tb« crew were orderly and obedient. Had some spirits on board, but the crew were sober. Owing to the state of the chronometers, they had to be moved from place to place in the cabih, and water had to be wiped out of tho two cases; this was occasioned by tho extraordinary bad weathor. Com mpanion and gully were swept away and the dock-house damaged.. I saved the chronometer and compared, it with that on board of the barque "which pkked us up, the result being as I have stated. TnW put the ship further to the westward than tho chronometer stated. At the time of

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, * KiDAY, AUGUST 31, 1883



Special Advertisements. COMB and See Edwards'e Senßation Polka (a Id Professor Barnard) at tho Choral Hall, TO-NIGHT.-One Shilling. "VTOTICE OP REMOVAL. ALFRED SMITH, F.R.1., 8.A., ARCHITECT, Nes. 2 and 3, Hoffman's Buildings. COKS. i^OKE. 1 THE AUCKLAND GAS COM PANY (LIMITED), Purveyors os1 Ligbt, Heat, and power, ■ Invite order* for their Coke at the following rates Cor cash). leUvered by the Company, in their sacks, within One Mile of the Gasworks; longer distances at proporttonnOe rate :— PerSaclt.SbUßhela .. la M rivo Sacks ,6a M fen Sacks, or J ton .. 118 M Twenty Sacks,or 1 tan.. 22s Od X ' td The value of Gaa Coke Is now O 8 better appreciated than it for- Q merly -was. Since we brought g _ the subject tinder the notice of g T householders, many hare habit- q S nated themselve3 to its use, both w U for registers and rangeELjond U 5 would now decline all overtures a m to use any other solid fuel. We g P recommend those who do not S 2 use Coke to adept the following W plani-First, send to the Gas /ompany for a few basis of their loijbkhold Coke; just the Quantity that can be taken Into lie premises conveniently, bear ng in mind that, weight for weight, coke is nearly double the bulk of coal. Next, having cleaned the grates of registers anc< range of ashes, partly fill them with coke (the larger lumps may be used for this pur pose); upon this foundation lay your kindlings and local coal b. ~ • ,No.w start your flre, and re- c flenUb. ot ton -with small anautl ™"s>tl<Mal coals. ■n^ 09?.'who learn thl". tho A. a Dreatloat, TrtH not r&adiiv toreio the moat oertaS^^ qnlokest method with solid ffMu For the mods of burniasGas -— . p«ke without coal see adver «S^ tlßoment In Herald. B COKE.



Special Advertisements. TjiXPIRATION OF LEASE. THE PREMISES SOLD. CHEAP DRAPERY SALE. jCHEAP DRAP ER V SAL E. I H. ATKINS I H. ATKINS la compelled to hold a CLEARING SALE of his Stock of DRAPERY AND CLOTHING. The Lcaso of hfa Premises expires in a Few W..L-k9 The Premises are Hold and have to be Vacated. The Stook must be Sold or■ Removed, and no suitable Shop is to be profpured. THE GOODS WILL ALL BE SOLI) AT VERY LOW PRICES. The Stock has been re-marked, and Customers will find that Heavy Reduction have been made in every department. H. A. wishes it to be distinctly understood that this is no puffing advertisement, but a OEXUINE COMPULSORY SALE. I All the NEW SPRING GOODS will be In ! eluded in the Sale. H. ATKI NS, DRAPER. MRS COOPER (nee Miss Vaughan) aB Flourctle in Rose of Auvergnc, at Choral Ham., TO-NIGHT.—One Shilling. II7HMJIK SHALL I FUItNISH MY HOUSE FROM I THE CHEAPEST ALL ROUND HOUSE TO FURNISH FROM IS THE CITY HALL ARCADE GAKLICK & CRANWELL ! ! ! IRONBK!i^KANW E LL. ""^lV* CRANWELL. BED-ROOM FURNITURE, go to GARLICK & CRANWELL. CARP ET S. A , i O i tO cK&cRAWELL GARLICK & CRANWELL, House Furnlshowj. GARLICK & CRANWELL, Upholsterers. GARLICK & CRANWELL, Manufactnpcre OP ALL KINDS OK FUKNITUBB. CnE ap Tapebtry & Brusskl C arpkts. CnKAr Oilcloths & Linolkum. Cheap & Beautiful Ck^tomnks. Cheap Blankets & Curtains. GARLICK & CRANWELL, HOUSK FURNISHERS. City Hall Arcade. Queen-street, AUCKLAND. X> A It O A I N S MEN'S BOYS' 'AND YOUTHS' CLOTHINO, AT WILLIAM R. BRIDGMAN'S. BEING BOUGHT VERY CHEAP .WILL BE SOLD 25 PER CENT. UNDER WSUAL PRICK Men's Tweed Suits, H3s 9d [15s 6d, 21a lien's Tweed Trousers and Vesta, lCsfkl, 128 M« Men's Strong Tweed Coats, from 12s Bd Boys' Knlcker Suits- 5s 6d, 5s Sd, Cs 6d, 10s 6d Boys' and Youths' Tweed Suits, 14a 6d, 16s 6d: strong and cheap 16s 6d, 7s fid Boys' and Youths' Tweed Trousers, 4b 6d, 5s 6d, Joys' and Youths' Molo Trousars, from 3s lid pair Men's White and Coloured Mole Trousers, from ss6d Men's Flannel Shirts. 2s 6d: Men's Drawers, 2a 9d Mcn'o, noj-3', mid Youths' Tweed Hats, Is 8(1, 2s 6d, 3s Cd Large Assortment Felt Hats, Soft and Hard 'Ibi pairs Men's Socks (samples) in great variety, from 4Jd per pair [Us M Very Cheap Lino Drab Cashmere Macintoshes, BALANCE OF WINTER STOCK OF Blankets. Rugs, Ulsters, Jackets, Overcoats, Macintoshes, Winter Dress Goods, &c, at greatly reduced price*. Fivo per cent Discount on all Cash Purchases over 20s. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, QUEEN-STREET OY SYMPHONY will be repeated TO-NIGHT, Choral HALL.-One Shilling. Enlargement of Jtremises. J. COSGRAVE h CO., ' ~ BEING OBLIGED TO ENLARGE THEIR PREMISES, WILL BE COMPELLED TO CLEAR OUT THE REMAINING POR TION OF THEIR STOCK AT UNPRECENDENTEDLY LOW PRICES. J, CoSGRAVE & Co., Upper Queen-street. mHORNTON, SMITH, AND FIRTH HAVE FOR SALE:— "Crown" Flour, In sacks, IOCs and 50'a "Champion" do. do. do. "Cantab" do. do. do. Sharps Bran Wheat Our Cash Sale AT COST PRICES WILL CEASE SATURDAY, AUGUST 18th., . I THE RESIDUE OF WINTER STOCK WILL.BE CLEARED DURING THE WEEK AT NOMINAL PRICES. ]V 1 ILNE AND ChOYCE, QUEEN AND WELLESLEY-STREETS. ~y ?. LONER GA N, TAILOR, & C Beers to Inform his old friends that ho has Returned from Corotnandel, and Is pre pared to Fit Them Out on the most reasonable terms at his Premises, No. 16, GREY-STREET, opposite Market HoteL N.B.—Gentlemon's Own Material made up. VJNT'S WHISKY. BCEENTIFIO EACT. New Whlfky 1b maddening and poisonous, so matter how blended, coloured, or agreeably flavoured. VINT & SONS, Belfast, Ireland (established 38 years). ft« presenthold Immense stock of their Old Well-matubkd Whibkt. and can ensure to the trade-through their Agents—ft really PURK, OLD. UNADULTERATED. AND WHOIiBBOMB SPIRIT, the quality mvrlntf ■been pronounced equal to OLD FRENCH In Wlk and ease, to be had from A. HEATHER, Agent. Bead Colonial Offices Melbourne. .



The cream of all the best farming, gar dening, fruit-growing, boc-keoping, and poultry papers pubtilshcd throughout the world will' bo ioui|d monthly in the columns of the " Settler," price Cd, or 6s per annum, delivered by mail to any part of the . wprid, Subscriptions, if booked, payablo at end of c'&ch yoar, 7s 6d, with option of ordering discontinue nnco of paper without paying at the end of tliroo months if dpseatisfieVi with it. Send your iidiiio and address at once to tho manager, " Bottler" ofllue, Queen-streot, Auckland, N.Z; N.U. — Valuable original contributions from practical colonial writers in eneh ilsue. Do not lend to your neighbours, but get four of them to ndd their names to our subscription list and you will got your own copy free. You will flml it well worth preserving and binding for future reference. 32 pages each lssuo.—lAdvt.J



We call tho attention of our readers to an announcement of a grand art exhibition and conversazione to be held in St. James's Hail on Tuesday and Wednesday next in aid of the new ortran fund for Bercsford-streot Church. A really tlrat-class evening's amusement may be anticipated. A fsature at this entertainment will bo a bread and pastry competition by young ladies of the congregation. An advertisomont appears elsewhere rola ' tive to a shipment of organs juat imported by Mr Chas H. Wobb. Ono of them is for tho Anglican Church at Otahuhu. Instrument Savcnrnnoono, and has a plpo top of Tmnd- Borne coloured pipes. It is at present at Mje Wobb's house, and poisons wantlhg prganß for churches wonid do well to aeo it, as it contams 18 Sots kneo swells, ie a marvel of cheapness, and L the first of its kind which haa como to this city. .