SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

aJUoN'S AGK.-N'cw Moon, 30th, 0,39 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

MONDAY, ppsitlps* brie from Mercury Pay Waitaki, s.s., Crawford, from W liaiigaiu

TEEsnAY. Wairarapn, s.s., ChiKiicM, from Sydney HifoFiiiai.schooner. Burrell, from Tonga

WEDNESDAY. Oniaporo, s.s., from tho South

Three Cheers, sohoon wC n'obinsan , from Lime Islands

DEPARTURES.

TUESDAY. ■p.otomahana, s.s., for Sydney

YESTERDAY, Omapcre, s.s., for Ureyiuouth

IMPORTS.

Per Sandfly, from Tonga-46 tons cobra. Per Three Cheers, from Islands—Bo tons gopra.

Tho s.B. "rt'ftirarapa, which arrived from Sydney on Tuesday morning, brought a law number of passengers. The Pelican arrived at Lyticlton from Kai para on Tuesday. The Tonean Government schooner Hit'o F«ia (late Sandny), Capt. M. H. Burrcll, arrived on Christmas Day, with Rev. and Mrs Hakor on board. Our report of the cruise ib held over. The brier Restless arrived from Mercury Bay on Monday night for repairs and overhaul.

The steamship Northumberland left London for this port on the Oth inst.

Hop Bitters are the Purest and Best Bitters Ever Made.

They are compounded from Hops, Malt, Buchu, Mandrake, and Dandelion-tho oldest, best, and most valuable medicines in the world, and contain all the best uni most curative pro perties of all othor remedies, being the greatest Hood Purifier, Llvor Regulator^ and^Lifejmd SiSS^Ko^fy^onß^fst Bitters-are used, so varied and pertect are their OPTuoy°frfve now life and vigour to the aged and Infirm. To all whoso employments cause irregularity of tho bowels or urinary »■«»»».« who require an Appetiser, Tonic and nld.Stim ulant, Hop Bittors are invaluable, liciuu highly curative, tonic and stimulating, without mtoxi- ClNo%iattor what your feeling or symptoms ore, What tho rtiscaso or ailment is, use Hop Bitters. Don't wait until you are sick, but ll you only feel bad or miserable, uso Hop Bitters at once It may savo your life. Hundreds have been saved by so doing. £500 will be paid for a case they will not euro or help.- Do not suffer or let your triends sufler, but use and urge them to use Hop Hitters. Remember, Hop Bitters is no vile, drugged, drunken nostrum, but the Purest and Best Mcdicino ever made; tho "Invalids I;r end and Hope " and no person or family should be with out tiioui. Try tho Hitters today. Cict at Chemiata' or Mrnggists*.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Maij,s wmx Close as dndkb :— Tins DAT. For Whangarei Heads, Parua, VVaipu, Wlmn garoi, Kaino, and Mangapai, per Slacgregor, at 4 p.m. For Tauranga, Ohinoniutu, and Opotlkl, por Glonelg, at 4 p.m. For Whangarci Heads, Whangarci, Kaino, and Mangapai, por Waitaki, at 5 p.m. For Maugawal and Kaiwatu, per liuby at 5 p.m. Friday, 38th inst. For Thames, per Rotomaliana, at 11 a.m. For Gißborno, Napior, Southern Ports, and Australian Colonies, per Wuirarana, at 11 a.m. For Waihcke, Cowes, and Corouiandel, per Coronmndel, at 1. 0 p.m. For Whangaroi Hwuta, Parua, Waipu, Whanga rei. Kaino, Tangilniu, and Mungapai, per Macgrogor, at 4 p.m. For Whitiangi and Upper Mill, per Howena, at 3 p.m. For Thames, por Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Saturday, 2ath inst. For Taranaki and Southern ports, per Taka puua, at 3.15 pan, Tuesday, Bth January. Per City of Sydnoy. as follows— For Sandwich Islands, Waited. States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foroign West Indies, at 10 a.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 10 a.m. For money orders, the previous evening at 4 o'clock. For registered letters and newspapers, at 10 a. in. Lato letters, bearing an extra fee of six pence in addition to the postage, will bo received by the Mall Agent on board the Bteamcr up to the time of Bailing. This mail will bo due in London on Sat urday, Feb. 10, m.

Note.—New Year's Day being a Post-oftice holiday, all mails for despatch on that day will bo closed the previous evening at 7. The De livery Department will be open for delivery of letters from 7 till 8 p.m. on Monday, 3 st met N.B.—The Dargaville line pf malls unsually forwarded on Monday morning, will, during next fortnight, be closed at this office on Satur day, 22nd, and Saturday 29th inst., at 3.30 p.m. The letter-receiver, Upper Parnell, has been removed from Jphnßton's to Ledger's.

The wall-rccoiver recently destroyed by fire at Impoj'B, Lower Symonds-street, haa been re placed by a lamp-post receiver at the corner of Alfred-street ana Symonda-sU'ect. A money order and savings bank oillce will bo opened at Paparoa on lat January, 1881. S. B, BISS, Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-offloo. Auckland.

"ALLES & HaNBUKYS' 'PEUFfICTED' COD Livbk Oil is as nearly tasteless aa Cod Liver Oil can bo,"— Lancet. "No nauseous eructa tions follow after it is swallowed."— Medical Press. In bottles at Is id, 2s Od, is 9d, and 9a. Trade mark, a Plough. — Sold by Aickim Ohemist, Queon-etreet; and J. A. Poxd, Hoineo Chemist, Queen-street.

Birth.

SHEPHERD.-On 22nd inst., at St. Stephen's Avenue, tho wife of Major T. Viret Shepherd, commanding Auckland Militia and Volunteer District, of a daughter.

Marriage.

BADGOR-HAXSOX.-On December 19th, at the residence of tlie bridtf'a father, by tho Rev. T. MclCenzie Fraser, Hobert liadgor, of Newton lioad, Auckland, to Annio, eldest daughter of J, 11. Hanson, View lioad, Mount Kdon.

Deaths.

SESSLE.-On the 25th December, at her resi denco. Chapel-street, Phoebe Scsele, wife of James N. Seasle; aged 27 years. Tho funeral will leave her late resideuco to-morrow, at S p.m. Frienda will pleaae. accept this invitation. WHITE.—On Chrlatmaa morning, at Chelton ham, North Shore, Laura May; aged G months

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

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

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21, 1883,

It is not anticipating the result of the offi cial inquiry into the wreck of the steamer Triumph, nor prejudicing the decision, to give prominence to the facts which have already come out in eyidence.and to indicate tho present position of the case. It was a foregone conclusion that no excuse on nau tical grounds ootild be offered. The night was fine, the light on Tiii Tiri island was plainly distinguishable, and many miles of sea room, clear of all dangers, ensured a safe passage out of the Hauraki Gulf; yet the vessol was headed for the lighthouse and ran ashore on a' large island, whose bold light house-topped cliffe towered in. dizzy height within fj, few yards of the place where the steamer, running at a speed of eleven knots, drove her bow on to the rocks, while all abaft the foremast was afloat in deep water. The captain oxpl#in3 the matter easily enough ; he says he was oj) the bridge in personal command of She ship; he steered for the light with the intention of getting a certain course for Cape Colville, and he fell fast asleep; and continued asleep until the shock of striking the island awoke him. The other oflicers, though on deck, were i engaged, in obedience to his orders, clearing up, and knowing the captain was on the bridge, paid no heed to tho course. The man at the wheel says that he was in structed to steer by the light and did so. He could see the figure of the captain on the bridge, and presumed the order to alter the course would bo given at the right time. As far as tiie pgpfc of Auckland is concerned, tner.efore, this catastfapho in no wise reflects on its perfect safety and acflpasjbility by night. Of course, everyone acquainted with the locality was aware of that, but persons) abroad have very hazy ideas on tho subject. The ey{&>t)ce of the captain himself and all tlie othei? witnesses fe, how ever, conolusjye in affirminjjfchat thavs y/as no excuse for the accident except such as may be found for any captain who, having headed his vessel straight for a lighthouse not an hour's steaming distancg away, then falls fast asleep at his post. The disaster Is of such (in extraordinary kind, and having occurred in connection with the initiation of tho direct steam se^vfeg with England, it is the duty of the Harbour Bqard to make the actual facts widely known at Lloyds, and through all the Ptjcog nised channels for disseminating shipping information.

With reference to the cause of the wreck, we see no reasonable ground for doubting that the statement of the captain, which is confirmed by the other witnesses, is a true one—that he did fall asleep; no other explanation would account for the casualty; but the contributary circum stances which preceded that fatal over whelming of bis faculties at a supromoly criti cal moment are still undetermined and tba

sottlemontofthisquestion isthe pointtowarda which the investigation has been chiefly directed. The aim of tho Crown Prose cutor's examinations bus evidently been to provo that, thorc was excessive drinking among tho olHcora and tlioir friends on tlio day of departure and up to t:l\e moment when the pilot left the ship. It would be wrong for us to anticipate the result of tho inquiry by advancing any opinion whether this contention has been supperted by the evidence. It i« not, infproper, however, to say that the plea of over-fatigue is perfectly within the bounds of probability. Instances of men falling asleep while on duty are common enough, and we are assured that even with our local police force iiuiny eases are known of constables, exhausted by .sleeplessness, fallin«,' into a state of som nambulism while on duty, and continuing their perambulations in a condition of total unconsciousness to tho course of passing events. Thero is even on record a wise where a_ constable who was cloinf; duty on the wharf fell asleep whilo performing his beat, and walking too close to the edge, tumbled over the side oi tlie pier into the mud, from which lie was rescued by two watermen. Numerous instances of a similar nature are within the recollection of various members of tlie force. Whether we accept tho captain's statement or the Crown Prosecutor's implications, however, blame would Ho at the '[uoors of those who were responsible for the safety of this valuable ship, and who, by rushing her to sea with an over-worked crow, or from any other cause failed to take proper precautions to ensure her safe navigation. Jt is the duty of the Court of Inquiry to determine the extent of that culpability and the mea sure of its punishment. Tlio responsibilities of the other officers, who declare thoy were on deck ami failed to notice a danger which one would suppose could not have escaped tlioir observation if they had been on the alert, is_also a phase of the case that must receive the gravest consideration of the Court.

We learn that McDermott, tlie victim of the Onchuuga tragedy, is still in a critical condition.

Tho Hon. F. Whitaker returned from the Intercolonial Conference by the Wairarapa on Tuesday. It is probable that ho will de liver an address in Auckland on tho question of Federation and Annexation.

Mr and Mrs T. Morrin (from Sydnoy) and Mr and Mrs I). Nathan (from England) re turned to Auckland by the s.s. Wairarapa.

A good chance of visiting Kawhia harbour will be afforded in connection with the sports announced to take placo there on the sth of January. This looks liko the death of the Maori bugbear in reality.

Tlie couiet that has been visiblo for some time past in the northern hemisphere may now be looked for in the north-western sky soon after sunset. It is approaching t!«e sun, and readies perihelion on January 2Gth, when its brilliancy will probably bo considerably increased.

Francis McMahon, formorly licensee of the Nottingham Castle Hotel, died sud denly at one o'clock today of heart disease.

One or two slight accidents occurred on Christmas Day. A seafaring man named MoKon/.io, whilo attempting to rescue an elderly lady'x ctuiinu weakness which had fallen into tho water from the Northcoto steamer, accidentally got in himself, with a broadcloth suit on, but was promptly fished out again. Over at Northcoto, three horses attached to an. express van belonging to Porter and MoGlashnn (grocers) bolted, and Mr Porter was thrown out, but happily was not much injured, while the vohiclo camo to griof against Mr Dcnby's fence. The force of tho impact snapped the shaft in twain,

Lieutenant Lowry, R.lS'., of lI.M S. Espciglo, will deliver an address this oven ing, at tho usual evangelistic Service in the Lecture Hall of the Young .Men's Christrian Association. Visitors to tho city are cordially invited.

At a general meetinp- of tho shareholders of tho St. Holler's Bay)and Northcoto Land Co., this afternoon, the alteration of the name was confirmed,

A poll is being taken today in the Newton Licensing district on the question of public-house lieenscs.

A spocial meeting of tho BaptistTompor ance Society is convened for to-morrow night.

At the inquest on tho body of Mrs Mar garet Gordon, Albert-street, the evidence of Dr. Dawson showed that death resulted from apoplexy, superinduced by excessive drinking. Thero was a large clot of blood on the brain. Verdict returned accordingly.

A polled bullock, while being conveyed from Biicklfuid's snloyard to tlie s.s. Argylo to-day, got out of tho van and ran a muck through the town. He lirst butted over a young fellow named Mann, who had been standing near the watermen's steps ; then he made tracks up Shortland-street, and turning into High-street knocked over three or four citizens in his headlong flight. When he reached the Drillshed lie caught sight of Mr P. Pignan and "went for1' that gentleman, Mr Dignan escaped un hurt but the infuriated boast carried away a portion of the fence. By latest accounts the animal had not beon captured.

Christmas)! cards from' tho Postmaster- General's Department and the Auckland Post-office are to hand. The latter repre sents New Zealand as a maiden holding a shield, on whiohthe Auckland Post-office is depicted. The former is a rather elaborate attempt at a representation of Now Zealand scenery, but it loses effect through bud execution.

Tho annual report of the Auckland Turkish Baths Company shows tho total profit for the year, £106 12s Id. Tho directors recommend that tho profit should be carried forward. During tho year tho baths have been patronised by (iOB ladies, 2,007 gentlemen, ajid 00 children, A more central site in Lornc-strcet has boon pur chased, tho rentals from which will bo almost sufficient to pay the interest upon a mortgage of £1,000. Tlie directors have also under consideration the erection of a new building.

Christmas fare at tho Hospital and Old Men and Women's Refuge was duly ap preciated.

Messrs T, and S. Morrin have issued a handsomely lithographed Christmas card, in which sport, agriculture, and aquatics are illustrated by typical scenes.

A capital programme is announced for the entertainment by St, Matthew's Literary and Debating Society, St. James's Hall, on Thursday. Burnand's amusing burlesque, "Vilikins and his Dinah," will close the evening's entertainment.

Dr, Carolan, M.K.C.5..E., who has recently gettjed at Ilelensvillo, lias been duly elected iae<Hoal officer to tho Now Zealand Rajlway Employe's Benefit; Society, also to Court Helen .of the Ancient Order of Foresters in that district.

At the Triumph inquiry on Monday, John O'Halloran, the look-out man on tho night of the disaster, deposed that ho called out loudly five minutes before the vessol strtick. Called three or four times, but no notice was taken of him, Thomas Case ment, quarter-master, deposed that ho was at tho helm. Tho captain told him to keep the light broad on the port boiv and be careful. He steered accordingly. Saw the captain on the bridge with his hands on the rail, leaning over. He did not alter his position for .1 quarter of an hour before the vessel struck, but witness had no reason to suppose he was asleep. Witness kept his eye fixed on the light; could not tell from where he stood that they were getting too close in. Did not hear the loolc-out man sing out until two seconds before the vessel struck, aiid witness lia.d then ported the helm of| his own accord,' seeing the rocks. Had seen'the captain several times that day and iifght, and lip was perfectly I sober. If he fell asleep it must have been because hp was tjred. Had seen him with his face bandaged sever*} tiinps. John ' Fisher, chief engineer, deposed that after the ship struck the engines were set going full speed astern. After that he wont to the stoke - hole, saw she was making no water, and went on tho bridge to report to tjip captain that she was making no water. This WkS !}°t more than three minutes after the ship struck, Ho said, "This is a bad job, captain." Tlje oaiviam replied," Yos, it is, and it is not for the want of knowing better. I must have dozed off to sloop." At ihsj; time thero was no sign of drink on the captain. JJ^ g-as quite sober. As the .evening wore ori, wittio«B say/ jjjore of him, and had no reason to alter his opinion th/j,t ha v*s perfectly sober. The captain had suffered h'oiif ijjs ("4??!P the ship left London from neuralgia, and the day bcffli-p t,h.ey loft the wharf in Auckland he was sufteiin^/ind sine© tlfC ttreck. Tlie .Qourt adjourned until Friday wefej*:, tiig Mb of January.

The promenade concert. and bal j in the liOrne.-streat Up.}} Jg.sfc night was a great success, more than one hundp§d ppjipte feeing present. iieut, Smith was M,O Amongst the principal gpiiffS wore tiiose by Miss %iz4e Taylor, Mr- £f. Dean, Miss Staunton, and Mr Hughes. Apotbef gathering of a similar nature is ani(otince4 Tor New Year's night.. Mf P, MUlis's veri= triloquial entertainment in the Theatre Boyal waa one of the best e,vor held in the city, and was- largely attended.

The Drury races are taking place this uftoruoon, under favourable circumstances.

Mr ITrasor limh purchased Mr ITawkos wood's interest in the cargo of the Triumph

At the Police Court tiiis morning, several drunks wove punished in tho usual manner. I!, lilmes and B. Holdgato were remanded till "itli January, on a charge of embezzling ship's cargo of flic ship Piako to the value of tlO. H. Clarke, arrested on warrant for neglecting to appear to answer a charge of cruelty to v horse at Onehunga, was re manded to Onehunga. \V. Branston was lined ")R and costs for a breach of the Harbour Kogulations,

Buy the New Wilson, the Champion Sewiiitf Muchitto; all others in stock.-]). S, Chambers, 70, Quoun-stri'.ut.—JAuvt.]

Washing Made Easy.—Use Price's Soap Extract Sul'e, sure, economical. Sold by all respectable storekeepers.- [Anvt.]

Tehka Cotta Ware.—A large assortment -jußt opened by Boylan and Tanflcld, 171, Quoen streot.—[Atjvt.l

Thursday till Now Year's Eve, I will exhibit, in my window a grand display of Diamond Goods, and they will be marked in plain figures. Have a look ul them as you pass by, iimi oblige l<\ 11. Lcwisson, Jeweller iiml \Vulch Importer, Queen-street, opposite Union

Hay's Art, Union, fifty valuable prizes, original and oilier paintings, drawing positively in it few (lavs. Look oiil for noli'cc of cxiiitt time, mid place ol1 drawing. Sec prizes at Ilailuy's, next, Itatlray'x, draper. Tickets, one sliillint;; buy up balance slmrp. Kemembor, lll'ly prizes.—|Ai)VT.l

THE INTERCOLONIAL CON FERENCE.

[toom mm own corrkhpoxiiknt.]

Sydxky, December 10,

Whatkveh else tho Convention may bo

accused of, it cannot bo charged with dila

torinoss of- any kind, for, considering the time of it,n sitting, it, rushed through an

immense amount of work. From the fi™t it mot with tho most decided opposition here ;it the hands of the pi-ens, the

"Herald" being grandly magniloquent, while tho "Telegraph "—tlie penny paper

—was simply abusive ; but then, this papor is little read, and hag no influence whatever. The evening edition of the "Herald"—the "Echo"—followed in tho footsteps of its big brother, while the " News " steered a middle course, and while diKagrceiug with a good deal that the Convention did, nevertheless troated tho question from an independent standpoint, and acknowledged tho good that must ac crue from the Conference ; and although thero was at no timo hero any particular on thusiasm about this Conference, the senti ments of the " News " might very fairly be looked upon as the sentiments of throe fourths of the peoplo who took the trouble to think anything at all jibout it. There can bo no doubt that in tho first instance tho hostility of the press was canned by the Convention sitting with closed doors, and in this respect New South Wales camo in for the chief share of blamo, for it was her Colonial Treasurer who moved a resolution to this effect. New Zoaland and Victoria were the only colonies who opposed the sittings being private, and in thin re-, gard they showed a great advance over tho other coloniei ; but now that it is nil over, it is very doubtful whether the country has not been a gainer through the Convention being closed to tho press. In Melbourne—which placo despatched no less than twelve reporters to Sydnoy to attend the sittings—there was an especially strong howl. To do hor vepoitors justice, it must be admittod that, although her journalistic representatives were not present, they nevertheless succeeded in dailydespatchlng to then-respective journals pretty Ion" reports of tho proceedings, which could only have been obtained from some of tho delegates present; and it was no secret that those representing Victoria boasted that they would give tho press (especially of their own city) every informa tion in their power. It is somewhat to bo regrottod that thorc is only a fortnightly mail betwoon this place and Auckland direct, When I last wrotethe Conference was in the thick of it, and a couple of days later they brought their do liberations to a clone. On tho day following tho departure of tho mail, tho Foderal Council Bill, as revised by tho Premior and Attornoy - General of Queensland, was brought up for further revision, and ite dis cussion occupied tho wholo of tho morning, There was no great diversity of opinion on the subject of tho bill, but a good deal as to its exact form of construction. Several changes were made, however, in its pro visions. It was proposed that tho Council

shall meet every two years instead of annually, and it was specifically agreed that tho first meeting shall be at

Hobarfc, tho subsequent meetings being in the other colonies, as shall bo from time to time determined. One of the clauses of the bill was struck out. It was that which provided that in the absence of a^iy provision for the appoint ment of representatives to tho Council by the Legislature of any colony, tho members might be appointed by tho Governor or by commission, and that members so appointed should hold office during tho will of tho < iovernor. Tho omission of this clause was carried on tho motion of the Hon. Graham

Berry, who maintained that tlio proposal was absurd, and in this ho was backed up by most of the dolcgates, who nppciued to consider that tho existence of such a cause might jeopardiso tho bill. As tho clause stood, it was contended that it looked liko an attempt to override tho Logislaturo. The bill, an it finally passed, contained no less than HI clauses, to which I shall mako no further reference.as you can out them holits bolus out of the Sydney or Melbourne pnpors of the Sth instant. The resolutions of which notice had been given by the Hon. J3. 11. Dibbs, Colonial Treasurer of New south Wales, and tho Hon. J. C. Bray, Premier and Attorney-General of South Australia, were then considered together. They wore as follows :—By tho Hon. G. R. Dibba—" That tho roprosontatives of oach colony in convention assembled pledge them selves to submit to the Legislatures of the lespeetivo colonies resolutions confirming tho conclusions arrived at by tho Conven tion, and inviting such Legislatures' assent to an address to Hei> Majesty,to pass an enabling bill such at that agreed to by this Convention," By tho Hon. J. C. Bray —" That His Excellency tho Governor bo requested to transmit to tho Right Hon. tho Secretary of State for tho Colonies copios of tho draft bill to constitute a Federal Coun cil of Australasia, and to inform the Secre tary of State that this Convention has con sidered and approved of tho provisions of the bill, and respectfully requests that Her Majesty's Government will take such steps as may bo necessary to the establishment of a Federal Council of Australasia." In moving his resolution, the Hon. tho Colonial Treasurer of New South "Wales (G. R. Dibbs) pointed out tho necessity of noi doing anything final until the consent of tho different Legislatures had been ob tained. In the coursp of his remarks, t)io lion, gentleman maintained that the con vention had no right to attempt to take any power from tho Legislatures or deal with any matters without first submitting them to their approval. Ho stated that no time would bo lost in taking the different legis latures into the confidence of tho convention, so that practical ofl'ect might ba given to their deliberations as soon as possible. In tho course of tho debate tho cases of Canada and South Africa wore instanced. It was suggested that tho premiers of all the colo nies might bo considered as representing the voice of the colony generally—a suggestion, however, that was taken very strong excep tion to in our Parliament subsequently. After tho discussion had terminated, tho Hon. S. W. Griffith, Premier and Attorney- General of Queensland, moved the following as an amendment, which was agicpd to unanimously : — " That this convention, reoognising that tho time has not yet ar rived at which a oomploto federal union of tho Australasian oolonlos can bo obtained, but considering that thorc are many matters of general interest with respect-to which united action would bo advantageous, adopts the accompanying draft bill for tho constitution of a federal council as defining tho matters upon which, in tt,s opinion, jsuch united action is both desirable arid prapticabloat the present time, and as embodying the provisions best afjapted to secure that object, so far as it is now capable of .^ttijijiJiiont, The following resolution was then passed in ijeu jjf tuAfc proposed by Mr Dibbs : '{That the Govern ments rtsptesentijj at the convention pledge themselves to invite the Legislatures of tho respective colonies to pass addresses to Her Majesty, praying that she may bo pleased to cause a measure to bp submitted to the Imperial Parliament for the purpose of con stituting a federal pounoll upon the basis of the draft bill adopted by the convention " The Ooloniftl Secretary of Western Aus tralia stated that while he personally oon purred in this resolution, ho did not fool at liberty to veto for it-,

The Governor of Fiji gave notice of motion to discourage all purchase of, lands from the natives of New Guinea,

THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS.

In perfect consonance with tho paucity of decorative preparations made for the fes tivities of Christmaatide,thc great day itself was very quietly ushered in. A few bands of singers paraded the streets singing selec tions from Sankey's hymns, but otherwise all was tranquil and still. The day bore its usual semi-sacred aspect, and an air of dulness and drowsiness seemed to pervado the atmosphere, or, at least, to prevail among tho people. Most of the churches thai: opened their doors were well attended. A few picnic parties started from town during tho morning, and throughout the afternoon there was a constant stream of excursionists to the North Shore, North-, coto also would have received a large share of attention but for the fact that only two trips were made in the afternoon exclu sive of the 5 o'clock one. Some of the people who did go over under the impres sion that the Saturday time-table would be followed, were left behind by the six o'clock or last steamer, to Auckland, and conse quently had to make the best of their wny to the North Shore overlaud. The choir and congregation of St. Andrew's Prosby terian Church held thuir annual picnic at St. Ifelier's Bay, to which they were]conj veyed by the p.s. ' Enterprise.' A very en joyable time waa passed,'and the picnickers returned to town in the evening delighted with their outing.

"The Messiah."

" The Messiah " was performed at the Berosford-Htreet church on Christinas Day, Mr. Chadwiok acting as conductor, and Mr lluoten as organist. The soloists were Mrs Chadwick, Misses I'eaeo and Geo, and Messrs Murray, Abel, Worrall, and Baxter. The Rev. Mr Robortson announced at the close that it was intended to enlarge tho church and Sunday-school and purchase s new organ, the whole to cost £1,400. Tho members of the Naturalists' Field Club and their friends, to the number of GO and upwards, made a very pleasant ex cunrion to Huia Bay, Manakau Harbour, yesterday, They left town by rail and em barked at Onohunga on board the Hrnnah Moknu, which took tho party to and from Huia Hay. Mr Cheeseman was in charge.

The Salvation Army held a picni; 'at 'Henderson—whither they wont and whence they returned by train.

The carol singers connected with the Arch Hill Wesleyan Church visited tlio residences of friends in the district on Christinas Eve, and gave various appro priate selections, and added tho sum of £5 to the organ fund as the result of their midnight labours. The night was not a pleasant one, but '20 members put in an appearanco which did thorn credit.

A special service of nine lessons and carols was successfully held nt St. Mary V, Parnell, on Christmas Eve. Thoro was a large at tendance, and the sorvice was greatly ap preciated.

St. Benedict's Bazaar was well patronised both on Christmas Eve and last nigUt, the takings <jn this latter occasion amounting to £45, which brings tlio total up to £200. For the remainder of the week the bazaar will only bo open ki the evenings. V.M.C.A. Christmas Breakfast. The Christmasbreakfostat the V.M.C.A. Rooms on Christinas morning was attended by 100 persons, Subsequently n meeting was held at the lecture hail, addresses being given by the Chairman Mr F. Battley, Rev. J. Macfarlane, and Rev. J. Spurgcon. Water Excursions. The weather on both holidays was such as to induce thousands of pleasure-seekers to patronisojtho various water excursions. On Christmas Day, both the North Shore and Nortlicotc steamers wore well-patronised, and the gardens at theso resorts did a splendid business. About sixty members of the Welsh Cymridogon Association had a pleasant picnic at Northcote, whila tho St. Andrew's choir picnic was also a great success. From an early hour yesterday morning the wharf was crowded with intending excursionists, and within an hour something l*ko live thousand people must have taken their de parture on the various boats. The Rose Casey, Waitaki, and Glenolg all proceeded to Kawau heavily freighted, and tho ex cursionists on arrival were heartily welcomed by Sir Gecrgo Grey, who had caused ths entrance to the grounds to be prettily ornamented with floral designs in honour of the visit. The Macgregor took a large crowd of excursionists to Waiwera, while the Argyle's trip to Motutapu was also woll-pationised. Abeut 400 people wore at St. Helier'a, whoro tho Baptist Bible Class picnic was held. They were convoyed to and fro by the Enterprise and Tongariro, Takapuna wa« the scene of tho Borcsford-street Cons til {Atonal and North Shore Wesleyan picnic*, the former party "being convoyed down in the ' Anne Milbank,' Ferry steamers ran timing tho afternoon to the ' Eflpiegle,' while tho boats to North Shore ond North cote were packed. Rn passant, it may be , added that the Domain was also| crowded witJi holiday-makors. j

OUTRAGE NEAR SYDNEY.

[SPKCtyi TO fiRKSS ASSOCIATION]

Sydxey, Wednesday. A SRRior/s tragedy occurred at Waterloo, a suburban township about two and a half miles from tho city. A woman of vagrant class named Catherine Owens was found cruelly outraged and murdered. The per potrators of tho crimo havo not yet been discovered,

FIRE AT PONSONBY.

Thk shop and dwelling-house of Mr Roberts, grocer, Ponsonby Road, was destroyed by lire yesterday morning. The outbreak was discovered about two o'clock, and the flames had then obtained such a firm hold that nothing could be done to save either stock or furniture. Before the pre press of tho firo could be stayed, Mr Coylo's house adjoininghad been partiallydestroycd, while tho next house, owned by Mr Bruce Lloyd and occupied by himself and the Misses Lloyd, hod the side Boriously charred and the roof partially burned off, The furniture from both houses was removed, but was considerably damaged during the process. Nothing is known regarding tho origin of the fire. Tho following a»e the insurances:—Roberts: on tho shop £200 in tho Royal, on tho stock £200 in tho Union. Ho has also £100 in the Union on the fur niture. Mr Coylo's place is completely gutted, and only part of the shell l'omains. Ho had the house insured for £100 in the Standard, and the'furniture for #50 in the same office. Mr Lloyd's is insured for £300 }n the National.

MINING NEWS.

[BY TELpait-U'lf.— OWN CftWESFONDENT.]

Thames, this day. New Piunck Imperial.—Tho retorting to day gave 2500zs Mwts molted gold, the product of 220 loads of quartz. This makes tho total return for December 2,1670z5.

Dakt.—Tho result of the month's opera tions is the magnificent yield of 4230zs lfldwte gold from 98 loads quartz, broken chiefly in thestopos above No. JHevel oh No. 3 reef.

Thames Golden Crown. —Tho manager has obtained 1330 as gold from 100 tons quartz, the result of three weeks' opera tions.

Bhioht Smu.k.—A parcel of 41 loads crushed gave the splendid result of 1250zs Gdwts gold. If aRANui Hill. — James's tributers crus|ied GO load,s specimens for a yield of Goozs 3dwts gold, Thomas obtained 12ozs Gdwts from JflUw stono,

ArjtunNiA, — Whitak.or, tributer, banked lOozs Gdwts gold. Caledonian. —Molnnes, tributer, crushed G loads for a return of soz« 7dwt» gold Adelaide.—Jury's crushing of 17 tons gave lOozs. 4dwts. gold. Moahataiiu (Extended). —A large quan tity of water has been met with in the shaft at a depth of 115 feet. It is issuing from a body of clay, which probably forms the hanging-wall of j;ho Darwin lode.

THE AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SUMMER MEETING.

Film' Day

PhKSI'DENT: Mr B. Tonka. Vico-Presidcnt: Mr Thos. MoiTin. Stewards: llcmsi-h .1. AI. Clark, .!. Dickey, S. Morrin, K. Miluliclaon. M.H.R., H. P. Harbor, .f. W. Buller. W~. Me- Laughlan, .1. If. M. Carpenter, .1. V. A. Pliilaon, .1. Kirkwood, John Marshall, J. Hutaell, and Captain Walnislejr. Judge: Mrltobert(iraham. Starter: Mr \\\ Mcl.auKlilan. Treasuri'r: Mr Thomas Morri.ii. Clerk of the Scales: Mr P. W. Marks. Clerk of the Course: MrT. A. Drown. Handioappor: The Goimnittce (ex clusive of horse owner*).—W.M, Pkhcivai., Hon. Sc<\

The summer carnival of tlio Auckland Racing Club wns inaugurated yesterday (Boxing Day) at Ellorslio, and attracted one of the largest attendances that has has ever graced our pretty racecourse. The weather was pie - eminently sportsmen's weather —a fine, warm, dry day, with just a sufficiency of wind to prevent tho genial warmth degenerating into sultriness. The old grand stand wan packed, and the num ber of ladies present, and tho elegance of their costumes, was n subject of remark amongst Southern and Australian visitors. One Melbourne gentleman was hoard to nay that in this respect the display was com paratively finer than could bo seen at Fleni ingtsn itself. The spacious lawn was for the nonce converted into a garden, nu merous flowering potted plants being taste fully arranged about the sward. Tho shade of a 000 l awning at one end of tho lawn was much patronised by the ladies during the intervals between the races, when Impey's band contributed their quota to the day's enjoyment. The grand stand luncheon was supplied by Messrs Mcßwin and Dallen, and left nothing to be desired. The railway arrangements wero in many respects better than usual, and the 7,000 persons who visited tho course yesterday had little occasion to grumble against the much-grmnbled-at railway department for delays, Ac. There is one matter, however, which we think requires reference to. Owing to some new regulation issued under the authority of the Secretary to the De partment, the railway people yesterday refused to issue train tickets only to race course platform, insisting that the train and course ticket should be taken. As a consequence, many who objected to paying for admission when they already had admission tickets were compelled to go on to Ellerslie and walk back to the course. This seems a very senseless arrangement, and we trust that an alteration will at onco be made, There was a larger number of Southern visitors on tho course than we have over seen bofore. Amongst them may be mentioned Mr G. C. Stead, of Christ church, Mr Pilbrow, Mr Donne, Mr T. J. Walker ("Mazeppa "), Mr J. Chadwick ("Spectator "), and all the leading men bor.sof the Southern betting ring. The ex- Premier, the Hon. F. Whitaker, was amongst those on the stand, and the Hon. the Minister of Public works—always a keen sportsman—occupied a place on the stewards' stand during the day. The totalisators, which were worked by the Club, were extremely well patronised, no less than £1,717 being in the machine on the Cup, and the total amount which passed through being about £0,000. There was little in the racing calling for comment. Salvage's dual win was very popular, the horse proving a good thing for tho public, as in both his races he started a hot favourite. The victory of Trenton in the Midsummer Stakes shows that the gamo little Musket's win in tho Welcome Stakes at the Spring Meeting was no fluke, as many supposed. Ugly Buck, who received the unanimous support of the clever Southern party, thoroughly disgraced himself. We cannot conclude this introductory notice without coujplimenting Mr McLaughlin on his suc cess with the starter's flag. Owing to the absence of Mr Marks through illness, Mr J: Waymouth acted as clerk of the scales. The first event, which started at one o'clock, was the

Maipkn IT.atk. of lOOsovß.. with a sweepstakes of asovs. each, to go to second horse. For 3-year-olds and upwards. AVoight tor age. Distance, 1} mile. Mr W. Bobbett's be Musketeer, by Musket—Yatterina, 3yrs, 7st 121b (Sutherland) 1 Mr D. McKinnon's b h Strathearn, Gym, 9.«t4lb(\Vattio) 2

Mr Atherton's cli c Flageolet, 3yra, 7st 121b(Laing) 3 Mr Thompson^ br g AB, 3yrs, 7»t 91b, also started. The betting was 4 to 1 on Musketeer, 5 to 1 against the others. Flageolet led at the start, and pawed the stand still leading, closely followed by Muskoteur, hard hold. At the niile post the colt took the first plane, and immedi ately after the heavily-weighted Strathearn passed Flageolet also. Musketeer evontually won by a length with plenty in hand. Totalisator dividend, £1 Cs. Time, 2min. 52secs.

The Midsummer Stakes of 200 soys., with a sweepstakes of 5 soys. each, to go to second horso. For 2-rear-oldu; colls. Bst 101b; llllies,

Sst 51b. Distance, 6 furlongs. ' Mr W. Sommervillo's b c Tronton, by Muskot—Frailty, Bst IMb (Wattie) ... 1 Mr Roberton's b c Krupp, by Musket— Maid of Atliol, Set 101b (T. Clark) ... 2 Mr J. Bahnain's eh f Oretna Green, by Bolton Green—Pearl Ash, Sst 51b (T. Taylor) 3 Also ran :—Carbineer, Woadnymph, Ugly Buck, Fusilier, Revolver, Necklace, and Satanella. Betting : —2 to 1 against Ugly Buck, 3 to 1 against Carbineer, 5 and 6 to 1 against the vest, After one false start, Mr McLaughlin sent tho youngsters away to a Btart of which Ugly Buck—who by tho way does not bolio his name—had two lengths' advantage, Fusilier being loft atthepost, Justbofore'tlie turn into the straight, a blanket might havo covored tho field, though Trenton's colours showed prominently. The horses took the turn very wide, and Satanella here mado a wonderful rush four or fivo strides, changing her position from fifth to second. Carbineer, however, swerved, and interfered with the chances of both Satanella and Gretna Green. Trenton, half-way up the straight, was challenged by Krupp, a»d a most exciting race ensued, tho judge giving his verdict in favour of Trenton. Woodnymph and Ugly Buck wore never dangerous during the races. The totalisator dividend was ±'8 14s, there being 952 subscribers, and only 98 on the winner, Time, lmin. 17£secs.

The Auckland Cu'i> (Handicap) of SOOsovs., uddod to a swocpstakts of ISsov. oaeh; second horso to recjoive lOOsovs, and third horse 60BOT8. out of the stakes. Distance, 21 miles. Mr R. H. Variance's eh g Salvage, by Castaway—Mist, syre, Sat 81b (G. Williams) . 1 Mv M. Smith's b h Tim Whiffler, Gyvs, 7st 121b (W. Butler) '„. 2 Mr W. Bohbett's br h Libeller, aged, 7st 71b (Sutherland) 3 Also ran :—Welcome Jack, 4yrs, Oat 101b (Dorritt); Maori, aged, 7st 71b (Me- Minnimim); Sir Bedovore, 3yrs, 6st 91b (Stuijjess); Soukar, aged, Cst (Woods), and \ortax, Gyrs, 6st (Byers.) Betting: 2 to 1 against Salvage ; 0 tq 2 against Tim Whifllor ; 4 to 1 agdfust Welcome Jack. This racp oxcited great interest, and Sal vago was a hot favourite. Jt was under stood that lie was meant for it, and an im pression seems to havo got abroad that if no was not able to win, Welcome Jack was to make an effort. Very few seem to have had any doubt as to Welcome Jack's ability to scoop the pool if he had been wanted. The horses were weighed out expeditiously, Sir Bedevere declaring two pounds over weight. The start was a grand one. Salvago led at the start, Maori on his quarter, the rest in a bunch, and Welcome Jack last. Before a fur long had been traversed, Vortex's colours were in the van, and he went on increasing his lead till at the end of the first mile he had a lead of about fifteen lengths, and was going strongly. Passing the stand he still led, Tim AVhifflor second, Salvage third, and Soukar last. At tho back of the course Voi-tex began to "shut up," and Salvago having passed Tim, was only a length behind "the sensattonal," At this point Tim was third and Libeller fourth. At the half-mile post, Salvage passed Vortex, who was almost im mediately after passed h,y Tim and Libeller, and this position was hejd to tho finish. Salvage landing a pretty easy winner by a length, the same distance separating the second and third homes. Vortex was fourth, Welcome Jack fifth, amd the much lauded Sir Bedevere last. Thero wore 1717 investors on the totalisator, Gil on the winner, tho dividend being £2 10s. Time, 4min. 9Jsec.

Handicap Hurple Rack of 100 soys., with a sweepstakes of 3 soys, each, to go to second horse. Distance, 2} miles, over 9 flights' pf

Mr J. Pilbrow's b g Clarence,by Ravens worth, aged, 12st 51b (Lunn) 1 Messrs Houghton and Sheenan's b g Hercules, aged, 13et (Sheenan) ~, 2 Messrs Lyons and Blajkie's b g Wood. pecker, Gyrs, lOst 101b (H, Taylor) ... 3 Also ran;—Harkaway, aged, 10«t 81b (Heaton), md Barbary, aged, lOst 71b (\V, Edwards). Betting i Even money Her cules and Barbary, 2 to 1 against Wood pecker, 2 to 1 against 'Barbary, 3 to 1 against Clarence, Mr Pilbrow declared to win with- Barbary. Cla rence led at the start, but soon

gave place to Woodpecker and Bar barv Passing the stand this position was maintained, the much-fancied Her. cules being last. At the back of tho course Barbary was a beaten horse, falling behind Clarence, and. being also passed by Hercules, who came up grandly at the three-quarter-mile post. Wood pecker began to show signs of distress, and at tUe turn to the straight the Auckland crack was behind Hercules, who was en deavouring with might and main to get on terms with Clarence. That famous horse, however, won with pounds in hand by a length, Woodpecker a couple of lengths be hind Hercules. Messrs Hough ton and Sheenan's horse lost four or five lengths by a stumble ho made three-quarters of a mile from home. Totalisntor dividend, i'fi ir>s. Railway Plate of lOOsovs. For 2-year-oMs and upwards. "Weight forage. Distance, 3-mile. Mr .T. Pilbrow's b b Welcome Jack, by

Traducor—Miss Flat, 4y:\s, 9st (Der

ritt) 1 Major George's b c Wapiti, 3yrs, Bst 41b (Vaile) ... 2 Mr Robertson's b f Mitrailleuse, 3yrs, 7st 331b (Absolnm) 3 Also ran :— Musketeer Bsfc 41b (Sutherland), and St. Leger 7st Sib (McLueky). Car bineer was scratched. This was regarded u» a moral for Welcome .lack, the betting being-1 to lon him. Musketeer got awaj' first, followed by Mitrailleuse and Wapiti. A quarter of a milo from homo, Welcome .lack was taken to the front, winning by half a length from Wapiti, who beat Mit railleuse by a length and a half. There were 850 investors in the totalisator, 589 on the winner*, the dividend being 255. Time, lmin. 17fsecs.

Pubk Handicap of 100 pbvs. with a sweepstakes of :isovs, each, to ko to second horse. lJis tanec, 1 mile.

Mr R. H. Vallanco'K eh g Salvage, by Castaway—Mist., syre, 9st (G. Wil liams) ] Mr B. Thompson's br g Yuba Bill, aged, 7stßlb (Vaile) 2 Mr W. Potter's bg Paramena, aged, 7st (MoMinnimim) 3 Also ran ;—Fishwoman, 7st 101b (Sutiier land), Envious, 7st 81b (Derritt), and Vortex, Gst 71b (Byers). Salvage was made a strong favourite, the betting being even on li im, 4 to 1 was offered against Envious, sto 1 against Fishwaman,and 6to 1 against Yuba Biil. Salvage won after a good struggle with Yuba Bill. Time, Imin. 44 sees. Totalisator dividend, 3Se. This brought the day's proceedings to a close, and all took their departure for town thoroughly pleased with the day's sport..

TELEGRAMS.

[PER PRESS AXIiOCIATIOX.j

Fatal Boating Accident.

WiSLUNUTON, this day.—A fatal boating accident occurred in the harbour late on Christinas night. Three younf; men named Harry Lee, Jas. Wall, and Thomas Williams, left Ngatauranga in a boat at 10 o'clock that night on a fishing excursion. When out a mile, one of the oarsmen missed a stroke, and this caused the boat to capsize. Williams clung to the overturned boat, but the others dissappeared and wore drowned. Williams's cries were heard fromshore,andaNorwegian(Trueman) hastily constructed a raft with some planks and went in search. He was successful in rescuing Williams in a most exhausted condition. Beth men drowned were un married. The bodies were not recovered.

Tramway Accident.

CnniSTOHUKcii,tliisdny.— Another serious accident occurred on the tram line yester day. Charles Newman, letter carrier, en deavoured to get on the tram car, but slipped and fell, the ttam passing over his left arm, which had subsequently to be amputated.

Dunkdin, this day.—At the inquest on the body of the boy Rutherford, a verdict of "Accidental Death " was returned, At a picnic, the other children left the car, but deceased asked permission to continue the journey for a few miles, wjien he fell over the side of the car.

The criminal calendar comprises twelve casoa, including one manslaughter.

THE THAMES RACES.

[BY TELF.niIAPH.~OWN CORRESI'ONDKNT.]

Thames, this day. The Thames Jockey Club Summer Meeting opened at Parawai yosterday. There was a good attendance of the public, and the various events resulted as follows :—

Handicap Hubdle Race of 40 sdvs, 2 miles.—Chandler, 1 ; Fly, 2. Actor and Lone Hand also ran. Tho former was second passing the post, but was dis qualified for running off the course. Lone Hand did not finish.

Thames Plate Handicap of 80 soys, 1£ miles.—Kenilworth, 1 ; Itewi, 2. This was an exciting races. Won t>y a Bhort head. Stewards' Handicap of 30 soys, lj miles —Only Kenilworth and Rewi ran, and the raco resulted in a dead heat. Stakes divided.

Seixiko Hack Race of 1 mile.—Skylark, 1 ; Butcher Boy, 2. Sk competitors.

THE A.J.C SIMMER MEETING.

[nEUTKJt's CAMJEGKAMS.]

Sydney, Wednesday. The Australian Jockey Club's Summer Meeting at Randwick was very largely attended to-day, and the weather was splendidr His Excellency tho Governor and Lord Roseberry were present. The following were the results of tha various events ;—

Hurdle Race.—Uhlan, 1} Du.ndrearv, 2; Warrigal, 3. :

Decembkr Stakes. — Buckingham, 1 ; lola.nthe, 2 j Venetia, 3,

The Summer Cur, 1J mile.

Mr Clayton ns b g Sloth, 6yrs, Gst 81b... 1 MrT, Jones'irh Coriolauus, oyrs, 7st 101b ... i;i 2 Mr J. Monaghan ns br h Sardonyx,s vm Bst 121b ... .;. Z] 3 This was a good.raco. Fifteen Kwses started. Time, Siurin. 39s?cs.

Selling PLAiu.-rMaJw, lj Paul, a, Rosinate. 3,

ABBOTTS OPERA HOUSE.

" Romeo and Julle.^."

The Pomovoy dramatic season wa.s in,-, augurated at the. Opera House last night with the production of "Rx>m,oa and Juliet." Even foy this season of big things the at tendance was excessively large. Every part of the capacious building was packed, and crowds, too, thronged tho corridors, tlw passages and entrances, guoh a " house," indeed, is rarely noon in Auck land. The performance' was very good, and the icpoated and cordial applause of the audience loft no room for doubting that they enjoyed it. Miss Pomeroy has a fine figuyo and prepossessing features, and her concep tion of the part of the ill-starred Juliet was bothscholarlyandtruthful. The lady's attire was rich, handsome, and. appropriate, and the stage "business" was studied and 'effective. Mr Arthur Elliott, who has visibly improved in his.tvianio power since lie was here last, vei'y creditably sustained th.erfde of Romeo, reading the blank verse withmuchfacilityandbringingoiitintorelief tho traits of a character which Ronteq'him self pithily sums up when \\a appropriates the epithet of "Fqrtuiie'a fop}." lii con junction with Miss Pomoroy, Mr Elliott was j twice called before the curtain. {\nd once ! with Mr F. C. Appleton. T;his gentleman gave a very satvsfaptovy impersonation of Mereutio, delivering the lines, " O, then I see, Queen Mab hath been with, you," par ticulayly well. He is an exnorionoed actor/but his voice lias a peculiar sound suggestive of tho loss of some of his teeth, Mr J. Folav's Apothecary was capital, both in make-up and action, Mr Konnedy made an amusing Peter, and Mr Charles Hall played woll as the Friar. Mr Dillon s Tybalt -woefully lacked fire, and Mr Joyce's Capulet was rather severe. The Misses Lewis, whom wq last saw hi opera, appeared as Pads, and Lady Capulet respectively, m <\ Miss Lily May portrayed, the Nnrao. Shakespeare's pretty sylyan comedy, "As You Lifco It," will bo performed to-night, Mr George Belcher, the weil^nown bookmaker, anpeavg as Charles the wrestler, ' r

CABLEGRAMS.

[lIEUTER's TklkgIUMS,)

(Received December27—uo nm . ■ Intercolonial Cricket Match. Melbourne, Dec. 26.-The match v toria versus Xew South Wales con™ lc here to-day. At the close of iCSZSffiP the visitors had lost four wickeu f P2 y runs. The highest scorers wee M U S caught, 152 ; Jones, 52. Murdoch, Sydney, ])ec. 20. — Arrived •n ---steamship Wakatipu, from Wellington I "°n (Received 26th December, 8.10 p. m) The Suez Mail,

Mfxboubne, December 20.— Arrival terday morning :P. and Os s i>» ' yes" wtth the Suez mails dated London Z?£[ b Sailed, this morning: S. S . Tarawen, f w

Tho Franco-CMnese Difficulty Paris, December 25.—The Parisian „ j French papers generally, i n their ieartiH articles on the Franco-Chinese diflCit c are now averse to further mediation witC* view to an understanding with China anrt almost unanimous in reeommendW S rigorous warfare should, if necessary v. prosecuted against the Chinese in TonqukT

SIXTEEN CHILDREN BURNT Iw SCHOOL. * Lonbon', December 24.-Intelligence is to hand from Malata.(? Malta) that afi broke out at a Jewish school there, while the building was occupied by the children Iho majority succeeded in escaping hit sixteen were burned to death, and a number were seriously injured. The school «£$ was totally destroyed. '

[SPECIAL TO PRESS ASSOCIATION,]

(Received December 27th, 1 a.m.) Governorship of Roumunia. London, December IC—The Sul'bm'W reappointed Prince Alike to the Govern inent of Rou mania. ; Man-of-war for Australia. It is reported that H.MS IVlimn i, been ordered to prepare for «J^f» }j" Australian station. • ervic eonthe To-day is being generally observed here as a holiday Numerous amusements l era provided and marine excursirns in particu lar were largely patronised. Gold Disoovcry. A fresh discovery of Gold has been mad« near lemora, and reports from the field ai« causing- great excitement. Permanawla party unearthed a nugget weighing seven and a half on. Many claims are aIS pegged out. f:

CRICKET MATCH.

Canterbury Wanderers v. Second Eleven of Auckland.

Easy Victory for the Visitors.

The Canterbury Wanderers cricket team played their first match of the series yester-' day, against a second eleven of Auckland '" and won by one inninga and 160 runs. The weather was splendidl ■:■ but rather warm for cricket. Them was not a very large attendance, and seeing; '■• that the day was a public holiday and that the match was not one of special interest, ' it is rather a pity that any charge for admission was made. Whatever may be the result of the interprovincial match, out " visitors will not carry away with them any very high opinion of the cricketing capaci ties of the second eleven of Auckland. ' Their exhibition was certainly a wretchai one, the team being singularly weak as a whole in batting and fielding; although ''" " rather good, comparatively speaking, in bowling. Some delay occurred in appoint ing a captain for the local men at the start. "■ > and he was eventually chosen by a novel method. Several names were put in a hat, '' - and Coxon's being the first drawn out, he was thus chosen captain. Winning the toss, he elected to hat first. The wicket was a smooth one, and just dry enough to make it quite a batsman's day, so - that long scores were predicted. Tne Auckland innings atarted at 11,30 to the bowling of Wilding and Chapman, but the wickets fell like ninepins, and at twelve o'clobk the last man saw his stumpa" - levelled.the innings elosingfor 15. Bindon, who earned his bat, was the beat scorer, aud "' ■; had managed to make three hit*. Auok- ' : land's greatest weakness appeared to be a • ' determined penchant for playing every thing up, no less than six being caught, Only C 3 balls were required to dispose of - Auckland, and of these Wilding bowled 38, ■ taking 8 wickets for 11 runs, while Chap man.bowling 30 balls, got one wicket attha cost of one run. The Wanderers then wont in, and Auckland devoted the greater part of the afternoon in wandwi^g after the ball, Millton and Buohanan started the innings the, former stonewalling and the latter playing freely. With the score at twenty, Millton was well caught by Lankham, off Buckland, and Secretan filled the vacancy. Runs now came freely, until Buchanan was bowled by a pretty "bailer" from Buck- . land, the score being 64 for two wickets; Harman was the next man, but hia first ball—one of Buckland's "yorkere" proved fatal, and with the telegraph showing 64 for three wickets, Wilding went in, Oreamora things became lively, and tbe century had been safely passed before Wilding wa» de spatched. The others foUowedinsteody but by no means rapid succession, Secretan alt the time Veoping his own wicket, and driT, ing, cutting, and hitting to leg in as clean a style as has yet been seen in Auckland. It was not until he had brought his total up to 119 that he hit his wicket in playingbapk to. Buokland. Quite an ovation greeted him on his retirement, his comrades carrying hia ' oft' the ground shoulder high. Canterbury's inu.ings closed for 227. Euckland did the freater part of the bowling, aome of his balls; eing very "hot ones," and five wickets being placed to his credit. Greater luck would doubtless have befallen him had the wicket not been so good and the batsmen in such excellent form, Lankham, serir., also did well with the ball, getting,three wick, ets at comparatively small cost. The Auckland second innings was somewhat more successful than the first, Chapman and Eds.er being the bowlers. MacCor mick's free hitting and Lankham's clean upright play were the only features of the batting worth mentioning. Bindon carried his bat a seconn time. The total score for the two innings was only 67, so that the Wanderers won as they liked, The visit ing team is remarkably strong in safe and stylish batting, smart fielding, and good bowling, and the Interprovincial match promiaes to be a close one. Scores :-^ „. AUCKLAND-FIRST INNINGS. £W\er,D Wilding ~ .. - a , , Dunkloy, o Wilding, b Chapman .. 1 Coxon, c Millton, b Wilding 7. -• ' " 0 MacCormick, c and b Wttdrog ~ " 0 Gardner, c Millton, hWtWtng .. ". 0 Webster. bWUfflntf., ...... U Leader, c Buchanan h Witting '.'. '.'. i Lankham, caw* Wilding .. 0 Bmaon, »o.tcat ~ c Biyvle. runout.. n Buokland, b Wilding" " " " [[ o BOWLING ANALYSIS, ■n,.... Balls. Runs. Maidens. Wickets Wilding. ~33 n 2 8 Lhftpnian ~30 1* a 1 WANDERERS-FIRST INNINGS. Mijltan, o Lankham b Buckland .. .. t Buchanan, b Buckland of Seorotan, ht wkt, b Buckland "■ " "n« Harman, b Buckland o ii?.% r' len.oßealeb Leader .'.' " '.'. 20 Wilding, b Bucklaurt 81 tdscr, run out .. " " "" 5 Vlalct, b I^aiihuam .. \' • ■ ' -otpr-,-, o Gardnar, b Laukham '.'. ■/.'. 3 Uirtinnan, b Lankham 7 • atevcns s notout .. ;. ;; " ;; o BOWLING ANALYSIS. Buckland ~Bf^ R?2 n9- M?i nS- ™f .^ankham ~ bi 21 5 3 'Sador ..go v 0 X JVobslor ..« 28 2 a AUCKLAND-SECOND INNINGS, vine, b Chapman . 3 j Junkloj-, b Chapman •" •■" " " 0 KTin^ff"?ll' Chapman!; \\ SI jOxon, c Malet bKdser 2 Gardner, cMaletbEdser" '.'.'.'. '.'. 5 vebster, b Chapman •• •• T ■ *»^« r.«Socrotan b EdsoV " " " 0 ; b Chapman 8 lindQn, not out "" . " j W cßwaliananb'Chapman:: " " 10 Bucklaiid.eCQtteriUbChapinan .. .. « ' BOWLING ANALYSIS. rh n ,, mn « Balls. Runs. Maidens. Wicketo ■ Eds - .. 5B 19 3 7 The IntorprovlnoialMatoli. The intorprovincial match between Can terbury and Auckland, which is exciting great interest, will be commenced during ' the forenoon of to-morrow, and continued, on Saturday and Monday. Betting on the result is very even. Auckland's greatest weakness at present is in bowling, and with the object of remedying this, there is still a likelihood that either Dewes, Blair, or,C. • \wfiHKL aowaon wUI be dropped out to make room for Buekland or Mills, -^ J •■.:'■',:■■ "■..,■,"■■■;'■■ ' ilHHffli^H

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 1883



I One Shiluno Art Union of Splendid Panorama.—By permission of the Colonial 4 Secretary. Herbert 11. Smith has decided to ti dispose of his Splendid Panorama, eompris rg*J ing l large Polytechnic Bi-lonial Lantern P as supplied to the Polytechnic, London, it fitted -with Ceroniatic leuses; 2 Oxyhydrogen 4t Burners and Disaolving Apparatus, 2 Gas 81 Ba«s 2 Pressure Boards, 1 Copper Retort, I 1 1 Purifier, 1 Hydroßou Gasometer or B Generator and Gaa Holder, 1 largo Sheet, 18 if i xl 9 feet, witli nearly 1,000 Photojtraiiluc Views; I: also a splendid Real Waterfall, with Tanks, !| Pipes, Coloured Lights, &c, &o, valued at I j «100. Also, will be given away, 7 of Her i bert 11. Smith's Improved New Zealand iielipse !'; Cottago Stoves, valued at em. The whole H on view at Herbert H. Smith's Auckland if Iron Works, Durham-sireet, wliero tickets '■'. may be obtained and all other information; ii also at tho Booksellers and Tobacconiiis. and other places; also at Mr A. B. Bropmhall and ' Co.'s, Shorfland-atreet. The drawing to take > place pnbllcly as soon aa list ia completed, which will be advertised, and an Entertainment be given. Tho drawing will be supervised by a il Committee. A subscriber can hold any number I i of Tickets at Is. or a book of 2! tickets at £I.— !i , ' [ADVT.J



Special Advertisements. ■ rim SILVER ! CUT SILVER ! ! The Eflbot Ss Marvellous nt, night, same effect B3 Diamonds. In this line I am NOT TO BE EQUALLED. Bracelet?, Necklets, Pins, I Brooches, and Earrings. F. H. LEWISSON. You all know where I am to be found. WHERE SHALL 1 JtURMHH MY HOUSE FROM f THE CHEAPEST ALL ROUND HOUSE TO FURNISH FROM IS THE CITY HALL ARCADE— GARLICK & CRANWBLL ! ! IRON BEDSTEADS, go to GARLICK & ORANWELL. BEDDING go to GARLICK & CRANWELL. BED-BOOM FURNITURE, go to GARUCK & CRANWELIi. CARPETS, go to GARLICK ft; CRAN/VTELL. , GARLICK & CRANWELL, House Furnisher!. GARUCK & CRANWELL, Upholsterers. GARLICK & CRANWELL, Manufacturers OS1 ALL KINDS OF FURNITURE. *.'■-. ' '' ; ' ' ■.:--- I Cheap Tapestry & Brussel Carpets. Cheap Oilcloths & Linoleum. Cheap & Beautiful Cretonnes. Cheap Blankets & Cortains. GARLICK & CRANWELL, HOUSE FURNISHERS City Hall Arcade, QUKKN-SrKEET, AUCKLAND r\ H E A P T I M B B R. VTe are Soiling good Second-class Houbo ... building Timber at fa. and Lining at 5a per 100 feet, and all other descriptions in proportion, according to our reduced Price-list for this ; month. Shingles, House Blocks, Posts and ■Boils at lowest rates. J. and H. SMYTH, Auckland-Waitakerei Sawing and Planing Mill Mount Eden Railway Station, 12th December. 1883. AND GOOD CUTLERY. THOMAS SAMUEL, Importer op Cutlery, Haa just received a good supply of all kinds of T-ABLE AND POCKET CUTLERY, Consisting of , Ivory and Bone Table Knives, Pocket Knives, Scissors and Razors, Table Knives and Forks in • cases, suitable for wedding and complimentary ■ presents} also, Electro-plated Ware, Siberian Forks and Spoons, specially cheap value, Sidcr ophron Forks and Spoons, having the lustre finish and ring of Starling Silver. All tho above : goods selling at very low prices. I THOMAS SAMUEL, I 108, QUEEN STREET, Next to Mr Weatpftuil* Bootmaker. OAVBD FROM FIRE. 1 Another Proof of tho SUPERIORITY of HERBERT H. SMITH'S Stoves was given last night at the FIRE. When one of tho Houses ! wauJonFire, two persons saw one of my Stoves in the fireplace, and knowing tho famous name they bore tor PORTABILITY, and being WROUGHT IRON, they tumbled it out of tho fireplace, and carried it across the road and threw it down on the path, as It was rather Hot. If it had been Cast Iron, and built in, it would liave beon iostroyod or broken to piccos in removal, • Send for Price List. Also, during the Firo H.H.S. took some views of it while burning. Copies can be had. Eurchaae some Shares in H. H. Smith's ART UNION of PANORAMA and STOVES. TIATO £10,000 LENT on Building jLJ JL" Society principles, or on other terms to suit borrowers. Allotments bought and Houses built on Weekly Paymont System Mortgages And' Loans negotiated. See List of Properties %r sale on 4th page. Six per cent, allowed oiftnonoy deposited for investment— C 1 Williamsojj, Land, Estate, and Financial , Agent and Vainer. 2 Vulcan Line. "S* O T ~ P E. I G. E. WarBURTON, Registered Ph,armfl£Cjjti -1 cal Chemist, having commenced business in § BiUJngton's Buildings, Freeman's Bay, is pre> I pared to Bupply tfce surrounding inhabitants ■a and the public generally with pure Drugs and ■ Chemicals, Patent Medicines, Toilet Requisites, Iti ■ oto>'at Queen-street prlcos. Prescriptions pie- II ff 1?? ™J?ASS uraoy- neatness, and despatch.— ii \RE you going to travel this Chrißtraas? II X*l A*1? 0' ."H 1 MfCbombes ana Co. and in* lli Spwj their stock of Travelling Bags and Pc& ifc mtaiean^^ratoga. Trunks anf AmorS X Valieeg. 2,600 to seloct from.—Samuel Coombes a' and Co., Canada Buildings, Queen-street,



Special Advertisements. TyiSKASES OF THE EYE. AUTHUK RICHARDSON, M.D., • SPECIALIST AND OPERATOR ON DISEASES OF THE EY E. JtAY BE CONSULTED AT HIS RESI DENCE, KARANGAHAI'E ROAD, From 1 to 3 in the afternoon ; Ob ITASLETT'3 ENGLISH PHARMACY, 181, Queen-street, from 3 to 5. ■\TO\V SELLING—A Splendid Lot of \S Gentlemen's Silk Dust-coats. — Samuel Coonibea & Co., Canada Unildinns, Qucen strcct. 158 & ifiO Pf/EASE CALL yueen-8 158 & IGO PLEASE CALL Qneen-st 158 & 160 l'LI0A!*l!l CALJj Uucen-st 153 & 160 Quoen-gt 158 & 100 AND INSPECT Quoon-st 158 & 160 AND INSFKCT Queen-st 158 & 160 AND INSPECT Queen-st 158 & itiO quecn-st 158 & 160 GRAND DISPLAY Utioen-at 158 & 160 GHAND DISPLAY Queen-st 158 & 160 GRAND DISPLAY Queen-st 15S & ICO Queen-st 158 & 100 NEW GOODS Queen-st 15S Si 160 • NEW GOODS Quccn-st 168 & 100 NEW" GOODS Queen-st 158 & 160 Queon-st 15S & ICO JUST OPENED. Quecii-st 158 & lfiO JUST OPENED. Queen-st 155 & 160 JUSTOPKNED. Queen-st 15S & It* Queen-st 158 & 180 Queen-st 158 & WJO Uueen-at 158 & 100 04 CASES Queen-st 133 & 1(30 64 CASKS Quccn-flt 15H & 160 64 CASKS Queen-st 153 & 100 Queen-st 158 & 160 NEW CLOTHING Queen-st 158 & 160 NEW CLOTHING Queen-st 158 & 160 NEW CLOTHING Queen-st 158 & 160 Queen-st TSB & 160 HATS & HOSIERY. Queen-st 158 & 160 HATS & HOSIERY. Queen-st 158 & 160 HATS & HOSIERY. Queon-st 158 & 160 Queen-st 158 & 160 Queen-st 138 & 160 Queen-st 15* & 160 Queen-st 158 & 100 Qucen-st 158 & 160 THE NEW ZEALAND Queen-st 168 & 100 Q«een-st 153 & 160 CLOTHING FACTORY, Q»een-st 158 & 100 Queen-st 153 & 160 Quekn-strekt, Queon-st 158 & 160 Queen-st 168 & 160 Auckland. Quecn-st Isß & 160 Queen-at 158 & 160 Queen-st 158:& 160 J. FITZSIMONS, Queon-st 158 & ICO Queen-st 158 & 18C Branch Manacer. ( ue«nst Continuation of cheap drapery & clothing sale. H. ATKINS Begs to thank hia numerous Patrons for tho wonderful success of hia CHEAP DRAPERY A> „ w'LOTHING SALE, And also to announce that he has uueooeded in securing from the New Purchasers a Lease of his present premises. H. ATKINS Begs also to say that as tho WHOLE STOCK Has been RE- MARKED IN RED, He will continue hia Sale for a Few Weeks Longer, and the Whole Stook will still be offered AT HEAVY REDUCTIONS Off tho usual price. ALL NEW GOODS WILL BE SOLD For a short time at about WHOLESALE PRICE. JOB STOCKS IN DRESS MATERIALS, JOB STOCK OF ANY DESCRIPTION AT ANY PRICE. CHEAP LINES ARE CONSTANTLY BEI BOUGHT, AND ARE ALL MAKKKO " AT VERY LOW PRICES. H, ATKINS, DRAPER. CLOTHIER. See. NGR A M AND U 0., ENGINEERS AND MACHINERY FHFTERS. Contractors for Every Description of Factory Fitting, Pattern Making, Castings, Turning. Pipe Screwing, Sec, 4rc. All WOODWORK in Connection with Machinery Madk. Plans Prepared and Estimates Givon. Aoents for All Descriptions of AMERICAN machinery. Lubricating Oils, &c. Office and Works: CORNER OF VICTORIA AND COBCRG-STREETS. HRISTMAS TRADE.—Ladies' Under clothing and Baby Linen, Infants' Robes and Cloaks. Doing a laree trade in these do partmonts, lam able to offor some very cheap •coeds .hist now. A largo parcel o£ Ladies' Drawers, Chemises, Night Dresses, Bodiceß, just marked off to soil cheap.—J. Rendell, top of Grey-street, Brighton House. J# C/OSGRAVE & Co. Beg to inform tho Inhabitants of. Auckland that owing to the Extensive Alterations to their Premises Just Composted, and the lateness of the season, they arc com pelled to offer the whole of their SUMMER STOCK, recently pf rciiaskd from tlib home and Australian Markets, AT AND UNDER COST PRICE! Realisation and Not Profit ib the Object Desired. THE SALE WILL COMMENCE ON FRIDAY, Uth INBT. J. COS GRAVE & CO. Direct particular attention to their Enormous Stock of MEN'S AKD BOYS' CLOTHING, All of which must be cleared irrespective of price. Note the Address :— J, CoSGRAVE & Co., Opposite Wm, McAkthur'u Warehouse. QAAA LADIES' STRAW HATS &\j"" frem 1b at Samuel Coombes and Cos., Canada Buildings. Queen-street. . Just Opened, XX S.S. TRIUMPH, ONE CASE OP NEW SUMMER COSTUMES. NEW SUMMER COSTUMES. REALLY CHOICE GOODS. LLIAM RiATTEAY, DRAPER, CLOTHIER, AND SILK MERCER, 178, 180, AND 182, QUEEN-STREET (four doors below the New Savings Bank AUCKLAND. TUST OPENED, and will be Sold cheap, (J 2 cases of Ladies' and Children's Sun shades.—SamuolCoombea & Co., Canada Build ings, Queen-street. "P> X S. S. TRIUMPH. 11 CASES SEASONABLE GOODS JUST OPENED. MILLINERY BONNETS FANCY DBESS GOODS MILLINERY HATS NEW TRIMMINGS fordo. STRAW HATS MANCHESTER GOODS DRESS CAPS DABV MNEN WIDOWS' CAPS " CNDEBCLOTHIVO FEATHERS CORSETS A*D BANDS HtOWBRS LINEN HANDKOHFS. BBAL LACES LACE BORDER DITTO IMITATION LACES LADIES' SILK VESTS REAL LACE COLLARS LADIES* SPUN HOSE EMBROIDERY COLLARS CHILD'S SPUN HOSE SUNSHADES AND SOX t UMBRELLALS. . Five Pjsb Cent. Discount for Cash. Dressmaking bow under Management of Bliss Jackson. Milne & Choyce, I 24i AND 2J6, QUEKN-STBEET.



Special Advertisements. "OETIRING FROM "OUSINESS. RETIRING FROM BUSINESS. KKTIIUNU FROM IiUSIN KSK. KETIIUNU FROM lIUSINKSS! JJ OO HH NN IJ, RE CO XX JJ OO 1111 NX LL XX CO KIC WILL ABSOLUTELY RETIRE ox 31st DECEMBER, 1888. • And all (Accounts Unpaid by that Date will he handed to solicitous for rkcovkhv. OO NN T XX \\\V XX XX XX OO NN XX \\'\X XX XX XX TO SELL THE STOCK ! MU S T 1! E SOL 1) B V THE N I John Ij eu k.



Lately, at Exeter Hall, General, Baptli, publicly vowed the latest addition to his family (a baby girj named' Catherine Booth Booth) to the service of Heaven and the Salvation Armj, Alderman Hanley has registered a scheme for laying two more Atlantic cablos, Old Saw Revised by the Bad Boy—A ouff on the wrist is worth two on the ear Tho most novel Christmas Show in Queen stroot 1b to be soon in Garlick and Cromwell's window. Don't forgot to inspect the Cfty Hall Dining Room. Will be lit up Saturday and Christmas Kvo.—[ADVT-]



Ah a Christmas present, nothing is 80 suitable us the Domestic Sewing Maohinc- Shakospear & Co., Queen-street, opposite the Market.—[Advt. It Is now discovered agriculturally that the surest way to get rid of the weeds is to marry the widow. This is a very agreeable kind of husbandry. Sound advice is that of the telephone. A Suitablo Christmas-box for a Widow A widower.