SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

f ~.. nr . nri-nnrn JThto Evening, 0.32 | HIGH WATER {To-morrow Morning 1.10 f SUNSET.-This Evoning, 6.20 I SUNRISE.—To-morrow Morning, 5.8 I MOON'S AUK.-New Moon, 31st, 11.36 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

Macgregor, s.s., Johnson, from Whaugnroi Venus, kotcli, Ncill, from Opotiki Kawatlri, s.s., Smith, from the South

DEPARTURES.

I Wairarapa, s.s., Chatftcld, for Russell I; Glenelg, s.s., Stcphenson, for Tnuranga F Argylo, S.S., Norris, for Mercury Hay I Southern Cross, s.s., Ross, for Gisborne 1 lona, s.s., Amodco, for Uussell

IMPORTS.

Per Freetrader—l,l9l sacks whoat, 510 sacks oats, 000 sacks potatoes, 500 palings.

Per Wuirarapa—2:9 sacks potatoes.— G. S. Jaklns.

Per Frootradcr, from Oamaru — 327 sacks Wheat—Adam Laybourn. Per Kawa'tlri—3,oso sacks wheat, 557 sacks oats, 48 bags potatoes, SO sacks peas, 1 ton barbed wiro, 50 tons goneral oargo.

Inwauds Coastwise.—South Carolina, from Barrier, with 36 tons firewood ; Lake Superior, from Pakiri, with 28,03" feet baulk timber, 1,000 palings: Chrlstimmirom Kussell, with 86 lons coal; licssio, from Konnedy Hay, with 22,0 0 feet sawn timber.

Outwards Coastwise.—Lake superior, for Pakiri; Bessie, for Kennedy ; Sovereign of tho Soos, for Coromandcl.

A sohooner tasldo Tiritiri was signalled lato this afternoon. She will probably prove the Ransom from the South.

Tho barque Sunbeam, an iron vessel of about il> tons rcgistor, was loading at Oamaru for Auckland when tho Kawatira left that port.

Th« ketch Venus arrived from East Coast ports last evening with 130 sacks maize, 00 sacks wheat, ISO pigs.

Tie barque Freetrader left Onmaru on Sop; tember 29, passed Kast Cape on October 15 at a p.m., and arrivod hevo last evening. Ex perienced a succession of contrary winds and ■unfavourable weather throughout tho voyage.

Tho S.S. Macgregor arrived from Whangarei at 11.30 p.m. yesterday, with 20 sacks gum, 10 sacks fungus, 10 cases fruit, 10 boxes eggs. Pas sengers:—Mrs Smith, Rev. Alex. Wharanu, Messrs D. Buchanan, Cork, Sub-Inspector Bayley, Creolin, McKcnzie, Stuart, Eaglcton, Fermi, Davis, Ashton, Kcrr, Evans, Tritl and two Maori boys, and nine in the steerage

Tho B.s. Kawatiri, under charter to the Union S.S. Company, arrived from the South at noon to-day. Captain Smith reports having loft Dunedin early on tho 17th instant, arrived at Ooraaru at 11.30 a.m. same day. Loaded and sailed again at 1. 0 a.m. on tho 19th. Arrived at Tiraaru six hours later, and loft for Auckland at 3 p.m. on the same ■ day* Experienced strong cast and south-eaat gales to Capo Pallisor, and moderate and light south-east wlnfls thence to East Cape, followed by variablo wimlu and fine weather till arrival.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

DEPARTURES, Douglas, 8.8., MoArthur, for Waitara Hannah Mokau, s.s., Dale, for Kaglan and

Kawhla Oretl, s.s., Robertson, for Wanitanni Laliaßookh, B.s.,Bailoy, for Waitara Hawea, s.s.,Haasby, for tho South

The steamers Douglas aud Hannah Mokau loft yesterday afternoon for Waitara, Kawhla, and Raglan respectively.

Th 6 s.s. Orcti left at 4 p.m. yesterday for Wanganui- Passengers: Misses Gage, Homan, White and Alexander, Mcsdnmos Amdt, and Holmes, Mossr3 Jacobs, Holmes, Ellis and Brown.

Tho s.s. Lalla Rookh loftfor Waitara at 1 par to-day.

Tho Union Co.'s atoamor Hawca left for Southern ports at 5 p.m. to-duy. Pussotigors: Messrs Melllvonc. Hcan, Calriwoll. liainerton, Keary, W. G. Rutland, R. S. Ledger, Misses Robbie, Good, and Malting, Hoy. W. Lloyd, Mr and Mrs Turkington.

KAIPARA SHIPPING.

Heads, this day.

Arrivod: Winona, barque, and Pelican, schooner, from Lyttelton. Loaded: Sarah Ann, barque, Clansman, and Anuis Wilson.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Russell, this day. Arrived: Wairarapa, from Auckland, 7.H a.m.; lona, from Auckland, 11 a.m.

New Plymouth, this day, Arrived: Orcti, from Onehunga, 0.15 a.m.

Taubanga, this day. Arrivod: Glenelg, from Auckland, 9.30 a.m.

Donedin, this day. The British Quoon sailed for Lyttelton last night.

IPEB MERCnAMT SHIPPING AND UNDERWIIITEKS'

ASSOCIATION.]

London, October 20. Arrived: The barque Loch Ken, from Auck land, after a passage of 03 days.

Adelaide, Octobor 22. Arrived: Chimborazo, from Plymouth.

SECOND EDITION.

THE LYTTELTON TRAGEDY CASE. , *. Inquoat To-Day. CKMS'rcttuitCH, this day. Thk inquost on the body of John Durham took place at Lyttelton to day. Dr. Macdonald gave evidonco to tho effect that death had resulted from strangulation. Thero were bruises over the left eyebrow, on the side of the nose and upper lip, and on both sides of the chest. There was also a small wound on the right elbow. Constable O'Connor said—On Sunday morning James Angus cattle to thtj police station and told me ne beltoVed there was a man dead in th& house, I asked him Xvho it was, and he said '' he did not know," Angus was not perfectly sobor«ttho tinUe, but I could hot say he was drunk. I went to the house with Angus and found the deceased, when Angus opened tho door saying, "There is poor Jack Durham." I asked Angus if he knew any thing about it and he replied, " I slept there and Jack slept there," porting to their beds. I found the body on the flour lying face downwards. I found a cord wound tightly round the neck. There Was on the leg of the wooden stretcher bedstead, and a little on the floor of the room underneath tho man's mouth. There was tho appearunco of a struggle in the voorn ; clothes, boots, aud socks, wero strewn about, There wore no marks x/t a struggle about Angus. The jury returned a verdict of "Com mitted Buicide while in a state of ternpora'ry insanity. The whole of the evidence has not yet been received from Lyttelton,

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Hails wn.r. Clohk as undku :— Tnis Day. For Whangarol Hoods, Parua, Wolpu, Whanga roi, Kaino, and Mangapai, per Mocgrogor, at 4 p.m.. Wbdmksday, 21th ln»t For Port Fltzroy, poj Wator Lily, at 7 a.m. For Coromandel, per Coromandel. at 11.30 a.m. For Westport, por Kawatlri, at 3 p.m. For Thames, por KnUrpriso. at 4.30 p.m. For Dunedin, per Talaroa, at 6 p.m. Thursday, !sth inst. For Waiwcra, To Kapa, Cralsioburn, and Warkworth, per Roso Casoy, at 10 a.m. For Waitara, otc, por Douglaa, at 11 a.m. Per Wairarapa, as follows i— For India, China, Japan, Medlt«iTancan Ports, and Continent of Europo. at 10 a.m. For Oisborno, Napier, Southorn Ports, Aus trollan Colonloa, and United Kingdom (via Susz and Brindlst, and ria Naples, for letters, etc., specially bo prepaid and ad dressed), at 11 a.m. Money Orders, for Southern Ports and Aus tralian Colonies only, at 10 a.m. Tot regis tered letters and nowapapera at 10 a.m. Lato letters till 11.20 a.m. For Tauranga, Ohinomutii, and Opotlkl, par Olcnolg, at i p.m. Monday, sth November. For Chatham Islands, per Omaha, at II a.m. Tuesday, Oth November. Per b.b. Australia as follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies,atlp,m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. For money orders, at 11 a.m. For registered letters and newspapers, at 11.30 a,m. Late letters, bearing an extra fee of six pence in addition to the postage, will be received by tho Mall Agent on board tho steamer up to the time of sailing. This mall will he duo in London on Monday, December 17,1883. S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster. Chiof FOBt-ofHce, Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

October 23, 1883. Freemasons' Hall—Quarterly Communication of Provincial Grand Lodge of North Island, Scottish Constitution, 8 p.m. Lodge St. Androw—Emorgoncy Mooting, 7.30 p.m. Boresford-streot Sunday-school Anniversary Tea and Public Meeting, 6.30 p.m. Temperance Hall—Annual Mooting of Auck land Total Abstinence Society, 8 p.m. A.0.F., Pride of Newmarket Court, 7.30 p.m. Masonic Hall, Nowton—Eden Lodge, Monthly Meeting, 7.30 p.m.

Notices to Correspondents.

Bushman.—Your letter is libellous and there fore inadmissible. A Ticket-holder.—Enough said. Tho bulk of our readers do not care a fig about the sub ject. You ar« either not what your nom-dc plumo represents or you elas» yourself as one of the fools. Constant Subscriber.—Apply to Mr Garland, Secretary to tho Hospital Committee. He will furnish you with tho information. Subscriber.—The distance between Sydney and Melbourne (overland) is 571 miles. Tho fare Is: Flrstclass, £5 7s; second-class, £3 12s 6d. The distance by sea is much about the same as by land. Fare : Saloon, 30s.

Death.

FLATT.-On tho 22nd October, at his late resi dence, Canada-street, off Uppor Queen-street, Robert Flatt: aged 38 years. The funeral will leave tho above on Wednes day, at 3.30 p.m.—Friends are respectfully in vited to attend.

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

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 1883.

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

In a short time Mr Whitaker and Major Atkinson, tho Now Zealand representatives to the Annexation Conference, will leave Auckland for Sydney. They go on a mission more important perhaps than any which has hitherto occupied tho attention of colonial statesmen ; they go to deal with questions of great and permanent moment

to the peoplo of this colony t they will be brought Into contact, perhaps into opposi tion, with some of tho ablest minds in tho othor colonies of Australasia; yet withal they go without a word of direction, with out a policy, with not oven a hint from tho country as to the course which they ought to pursue in the interests of Now Konland< This Is not as it should be. Othel- com munities are not equally lax, and tho repre sentatives from the large colonies of Aus tralia will approach the Conference with a lino of policy clearly mapped out, with fixed and dofinUo Ideas to guide them, and with a full understanding of what course will bcnti ■MUSlH'vo or further tho iutereflts oJ tho communities which they represent. Thus, at Melbourne the Chambers of Comm'orce and Manufac tures held ft joint cdiifoWnee-, tihd passed the following among other resolutions :— " That thts Conference, in view of the vapid ftro^fess of tho Australasian dolohitis, in habited as they now aro by upwards of &,000,000 of persons, and possessing a total import and export trade of the value of £113)000,000, is of opinion that the time has arrived for all to sink minor differences And combine to form a united dominion of Australasia. That, «« a prelude to federation, tho Government be urged to try and art-ange for intercolonial free-trade in colonial goods, i.e., that all the natural productions aud all the manufactures of. Victoria be allowed freo admission into the other colonies, and that all thoir natural productions and manufactures should come to us free, and that each colony bo allowed to impose whatever duty it may ■deem necessary Upon goods from any other part of the world. That, failing this, the Government bo urged to amuigo for inter colonial free-trade in all goods upon which the duties are V.ho same in all tho colonios, That this conferenco specially urges Upon the Government tho importance of arranging for free interchange In colonial wines." Thtfre ban be no doubt that ono of the first etops of tho coming Convention at Sydney Will be to lay the basis of colonial federation, and in viow of this it is tho im perative duty of each colony to consider whother federation is in its interest or not, and how far the federal principle should bo allowed to have sway. No doubt our Cabinet will consider tho question, and give goneral instructions to tho two gontlomcn who are to represont this colony; tho Press has protty goncrally indicated its approval of federation ; but tho commoi;cial world has givon no sign of how it views tho proposals. This lapse ought to bo repaired without delay> Tho oxistenco of Chambers of Commerco in the chief cities of the colony justifies the assumption that tho commercial interests of Now Zoaland will be carefully socured in tho forthcoming diplomatic convention | but unloss somo action Is takon by theso bodies In tho way of formulating thoir opinions on tho subject of tiro ro-adjustmont of tariffs Which will bo necessary undoran Australasian Con federacy, tho colony will find it has beon trusting to a broHort reed, and our com mercial men, when too lato, will deploro their own criminal negligence. In saying this Wo in no way disparago tho (rontleinttn who aro to ropresont Now Zealand, as thoy may bo fully confided In for ability and honesty of purposo; what wo contend > for la tho desirability of th«ir being fortified and directed in their Work by an oxprension of the will of tho peoplo through representative bodies. Wo should havo liked had tho Houko of Uopre- Hontrttivos given xolno clear utterance on tho subject of federation and annexation bo foro Its laboufH wore suxpetulorf. Tho some what rambling discussion which took plaeo msy havo Indicated pretty fairly tho viowa of hoh. members; but all it amounted to was that groat caution nhould bo oxorci.scd, and tfkit monetary responsibilities should bo guarded against with oxtromo jealousy. Thus noithor tho HoUho of lloprrKontntivoH nor theChambori of Commorco have opokon authoritatively on this all-important sub joct, and unloss tho latter bodies nro now stirred, Messrs Whitnkor nnd Atkinson will go with absolutely no definite instructions —with no lir.o of policy laid down, and with no indication of tho wishes of tho pooplo in tho matter. If, dealing with tho questions before tho Conference on broad grounds of gonoral policy, our roprosonta tivos unwittingly inflict a wrong on tho commercial community, tho latter will know that thoy havo only thoiuHolves to blame.

Tho almost ontiro absonco of cable nows from this day'y issuo is accounted for by the fact that tho_ submarino cable botweon Australia and Asia in not in working order. A number of items of English news received via tho BlufT will bo found on the fourth pngo. Thoro also nro published items of nptu ling ami Volunteer Intelligence, and the balanco of our report of yesterday's banco sitting in tho Supremo Court, which was crowded out of our ldßt issuo.

The Auckland Hospital librarian acknow ledges with many thanks sovoral " Christiai Heralds" and " Signs of Our Times,' from Mra J. h. Holland; also, " Punch,' and a pnekago of "Illustrated Londor Journals," from tho Working Men's Club.

Mr Robert W/xlkor, Mayor of I'nrnoll, concludos his socond year of oflico nhortly. His regime has boon n most successful ono, and ho was mainly instrumental,in tho face of groat opposition,in providing tho much needed water and drainage systems for tho eastern suburb. Ho has proved a model Mayor, and woll dosorvos tho good wishes of tho burgogses. A most important ochoino for harbour dredging and the ultimate filling in of Freeman's Bay with silt has boon sub mitted to tho Harbour Board by tho Engi neer. He points out that if 740,000 oubic yards of stuff wero takon out, tho whole of tho present wharfage accommodation could be miiclo avilablo for vessels of considerable draught of water, and montions as nn illus tration of his Bchomo that if tho proposals woro carried out tho steamer Doric, whose deep levol draught is 27 feot, could bo easuy berthed close up to the toll-houso. Mr McDonald recommends tho purchase of a dredge that could remove all this silt in three and a half years, and by ita doposit in Freeman's Bay .place the Hoard in posses sion of 21 acres of valuable city property. Tho report, which is outlined in another column, is now under tho consideration of tho Harbour Board Committee.

In our report last evening of tho piano forte competitions at tho Theatio Koyal on Saturday night wo omitted to glvo tho names of the pieces played by Miss C. E. Brabazon, tho successful competitor among pianistes undor 13 years. The young lady played the test piece " luanita," and (selected) "Hoathorßells " (Rockstro').

To the Editor : Sir, —Can you inform me whether the Newton Highway Board are prepared to tako Surrey Hills Estato into their district, and make the roads ? It is well that the public should know before the sale, as I hear on good authority that tho said roads will cost £30,000.-1 am, &c., Intending Purchaser. [Tho estato is in Nowton Highway District alroady, and is rated by tho local Board. Tho residents on the estato will, of courso, have tho same claim to tho construction of roads that other ratepayers have.—Hd. E.S.]

Tho following mining telegrams wcro re ceived to-day:—From the Coromandol Just in Time:—"Can see strong colours of gold in tho riso.—(Signed P. Barry." From the Waiorongomai: — " Breaking down reef yesterday, good gold showing, solid stone. —(Signed) J. Bullock ."

A sensational incident which occurred in the Free Public Library yesterday should serve as a warning to careless smokers generally. A young man was deeply im mersed in the study of an interesting biographical work, when tho persons in hie immediate vicinity wore alarmed by a very perceptible smell of fire, and by seeing thin volumes of smoke curling around tho youth's body. They apprised him of the fact, and at the same momont the incipient fire made its presence felt in a decidedly unpleasant manner. Tho youth found his coat to bo on fire, and after tho smouldering cloth had beon extinguished, ho remembered that ho had placed his lighted pipe, which ho had only a few minutes previously beon smoking, in the pocket where the outbreak occurred.

The Parnell Borough authorities com plain that tho rates aro coming in very slowly.

Mr W. Rattray announces the issuo of a number of capital photographic Christmas cards. One consists of reduced portraits of a selection of Maoris. Two other cards, en titled "Nature's Frolics in New Zealand," depict various natural wonders, including hot lake sketches, mountain, river, and lake wonders; another card is devoted en tirely to the wonders of tho hot lake region ; and one to a selection of condensed sketches of New Zealand mountain, lake, and fiord scenery. Two other cards introduce ua to European civilisation—from nature to art. The chief buildings of Dunedin and Christchurch are imposing enough to impress persons living outside the colony with tho progress of the colony, and to assure them that amid the wonders of a richly-endowed land there are obtainable all the luxuries of an advanced civilisation. We have no doubt that these seasonable cards will meet with a large sale. Tho next outward San Francisco mail arrives in Eng land on .'the 17th of December, so that colonists who desire to despatch these novel greetings to distant friend 3 should take time by the forelock.

Tim OWnur of tho Rangiriri Hotel has called at Bill' ofHco tiiid states that tho man Hannlgati, who was loft In chai'go of tho hotcl'Dn tho night of tho fire was not drank, but actively assisted in Carrying buckets of water. Tho hotel is Insured In tho South British Oflico for £300, and tho furnitore In the Colonial for £200> Sbhia of the furni ture was wived. Tho cottage, which is damaged) waß insured in Sic Norwich Union for jEIOOi

The fortnightly, Meeting of the. Sir Itpiu;y Havelocli Btlnll of llopo was hold last niglit and well attended, Tho Secretary presided. Mt pownoyj froln dip Auckland J3and of Hope ttnloii, addressed tho meeting oil •'Tilts Cu'wSo of Drink." A lengthy pro gramme was goho through, consisting of the following Item*, vtl, i-^-Ronj^ IMM Hainßss Mk*aa 0. La\vfor,d, and J. MoLach liln ) recitations': Misses Ada Niddrie, Ettie fyloi-gan, Matilda James, and Master H, llyail; reading :Mr Carrtpbell. Hymns |rom Hoyles's collection were suitff nfc intervals, Miss Battdnsby pitjslding at the harmonium. A number of pledges woro taken, and tim meeting was closed in the Usual way at 8.30.

, A puzzle to,total abstainers has just died in Franco at the i-jpd ago.of 70, leaving an account in a log-book of all that he had drunk for tho past 50 years. Hib habits in this respect were very regular, his daily allowance being seven pints of wine, a couple of glasses of ybsinthe beforo each of his threo meals, and 12 ponies of cognac, rum, or Homo otliur spirit to drive away despondency. The total for the half-contury amounted to 127,827 pints of wine, 109,656 glasses of absinthe, and 219,132 ponies of spirits. The ; old gUntlomnn boasted that ho had tie-'Or had a day's illness in h?s life, and he certainly gcoms to liavo proved his point that a hard drinker is not necessarily a short livor. Perhaps, howovor, ho, might havo lived t\vonty years longor if lie had been a total abstainer.

A Correspondent, writing from To Awamutu ovor tho signature of "Tangata Matau," gives tho following recipe for making an article of diot from the raupo plant:—Tako up tho young raupo as deOp as possiblo, slice all the white ana stowl, poiir it all Into an oitfthetiwa.ro' jar and add SUgiir. After t\Vo days tho liquor will be jollied) having the taste of curds. This can bo brought to roquirod taste by additional sugar and eHsoncos, or added to stewed fruits it gives tho stow tho consistency of jolly.

At Thames, on Saturday last, a mooting was hold In tho Ittberniah Hall—Mr M. Landers In tlio chair, when it was roSolvwl Unanimously to catiibli6.li a branch of tho Irish National League, Hie following to bo tho first olticern:—Chairman, M. Landers j Secretary, M. F. Bieoti j Troasuror, E. Twohill. It was further decided to sond out subscription Huts through tho district in aid of tho cause, and that tho branch should bo kept in eXistonco u,ntll tho agita tion now being carried on at Homo to obtain a redress of tho grievances undor which tho Irish pooplo aro labouring is successful. Tho mostiiiK further pledgod Itself to continue tho work begun until wuch timo an tho Mnli Land Act ivainuntlod to thooxtontroquiivd, and tho Irish Pariiamont lias boon ro-oytab liwhed. Tho sum of £'25 wan colloctod in tho room towards tho objects of the I/iaguo.

Tho committal of an atrociously villainous dood is roiwtod from tho neighbourhood of Stony Kivor, in W'/ingamii district, whoro tho body of tho wifo of I'orikajKi, tho Native Wesleynn oatcchiHt, in wvid to have boon oxlnimod by notno scoundrel* with llio objoct of plunder. l'oriknpa'n wifo wjih buried fourteen years ago, and, according to Muoii custom, tho personal ell'octH of tho deceased, and fifteen Hovoroigns, said to havo boon givon hor by tho lato Kov. John Whiteloy, Woro enclosed in hor coffin and buried with hor. Tho booty probably sought for wjw a handsome greenstone or nnmont worn in tho onr, but, finding tho sovereigns, the plundorors wore satigfiod and mado olf, leaving everything else. Tho matter in in tho hands of tho polico, and it ia hoped tho miscreants will bo traced and rocoivo tho punishment thoy so richly dosorvo.

Koforring to tho question of annoxa tion of Pacific Inlands, mid to Sir (ioorgo (!ruy's Federation and Atmoxation Hill, the " Fiji Argun " cay* :—" SVo would wolcomo a now form of Government as a thing which will bemofit not only the white inhabitants of thoso Islands, but also tho natives. Many of tho loading citizens in Australia and Now Zealand who have capital invested in Fiji will bo only too glad to hold thoir hands out and help uh. If wo agitato with Htifliciont warmth of fooling that Fiji bo annexed to either Aus tralia or Now Zealand, wo will bo mire of somo success im inseparable to our agita tion, now that thoro ia a general concensus of opinion in tho colonies that in order to mako Fiji a socond Mauritius she must bo proporly governed, and thero nro now op portunities presenting thomsolvoH which may novor again occur. Should wo not do something definite, wo will lot thoso golden opportunities of being annexed slip through our hands ; thoreforo lot us bestir our«clvos or all will bo lost."

To tho Editor: Sir, —I am a colonial tihoomnkor, and during 10 years' experience in ncvoral factories 1 have never known a workman leaTO his job for tho reason stated by " A Shoomaker's Friend " in hint night's Stak ; but I havo soon Htcmly men walking about idlo for weeks, and even months, Booking for any land of work in vain. Many young inon after serving their nppronticODhip have pot no dishcartenod through being shunted as noon as their timo was up that thoy havo loft tho trado, and aro now 'bun or oxprosH-driTing, working in t!»o bupli, bullock-driving, road-making, and other callings. 1 frcoly ndmit that wo shoomakors aro not alaves, but that wo are an a class what our "Friend" in last night Star calls uh, imlopondont—that is, wo aro not to bo bulliod or insulted by foremen or managers. Employors lhomnolvos nover do that sort of thing, 1 havo mysolf, with ovory other factory hand, frequently workou upon common work, by which my wcok's wages havo beon lodacod ono-third, and my wifo has asked mo if tho foreman's screw was also reduced when common work was boing dono. Will " A Shoomakor's Friend answer my wife's question ?—I am, &c, A Colonial Shoemaker.

" Tangata Matau " writes as follows of an invontion for rooting up fern:—A black smith in To Awamutu lias mado for mo somo tiling of similar shapo to a trnnys that men uso to protect their boots from the spade. It was a piece of iron a foot long, 3^ inchos broad, mid 1 inch doop. He beat tho top side out to a knifo edge, leaving tho back untouched; turned up 1J inch oach end; boat them out, and drilled holes. I shaped I two pieces of a sapling similar to the sides of a Hlerk'O, placed the queer-looking thing between them, andßcrowcditon;nnilcd cross pieces on for strongthoning, and augured two holes; passed somo (lax through ; put a junk of wood on tho sledgo to weight it. My iron was nn inch and a-hnlf below tho woodwork, so I cut an opening in tho ground for it, and pulled away. Tho flax gave, and so did my strength, but tho fern was cut an inch below tho ground, and this being but a model, I will at another time have some thing similar made of steel of largor dimensions for horse-powor, if it answers as well as my model. A boy and two good horses can cloar acres of fern and small ti troo in one day, and when dry, tho fern root and one and a-half inoli of loose soil will bo burnod. The burnt soil would bo lit to grow wheat and oats, which would be better than waiting two or threo years at presont. This is ono of a series of inventions that I hope to succoed in.

Our Port Albert correspondent writes :— At tho Agricultural Society's meeting on Thursday, hold at Mr J. Bccroft's, Brook - valo, two selocted papora were road, one on manures and the other advocating State aid in promoting tho scienco of agriculture. A committeo was appointed to do tho work in connection with noxt Agricultural Show, which will be hold about tho /irst week in March.—On Sunday the Christian Brothron held services in tho nowly-orected mooting house In theovcningßro. Laing, from Auck land, doliveredathoiiglitftiladclrossinaCliris tian spirit and with much earnestness. Sub ject: "A Few Thoughts on Jesus." On Monday a public meeting was hold in tho samo piaco; about 150 porsons wore pre sent, and partook of an excellent tea. The meeting was addressed by Bros. Jones, Hatfield, and Laing (from Auckland), Pellet, Prietor, Hindlo, Hondorson, J. Wilson, and E. Brown.—Tho Band of Hopo mustered in strong forco in ,the Wesleyan Chapel on Tuesday evoning*— A meeting in connoc tion with the Wesloyan Homo Mission was held in the Wesleyan Chapel on Wed nesday, Mr J. Shepherd presiding. Bro. Stevenson read the annual report, and Roys. Abernoathy and Bond spoke at some length. The latter gentlomen was ap plauded for his excollonfc address, and ho pleaded the Homo Mission eauso warmly and in au effective manner. Messrs F. Kuohbrook and J. Legge expressed their hearty sympathy in the object of tho meet ing.—The boisterous and cold weathor last week has, I fear, done much damage to tho orchards; poaches and the early plums and pears show umiiistakubly tho effect of the hailstorms.

JiusliKwe at the Bharetnai'kct was dull to day. Darwlns sold at ?« 3d and 7s 6d, and NmV Finds at lls. There was but llttlo alteration In other I'oßpeots, buyers and solloi's nearly the efliiiD n 8 yesterday.

Tho first general mooting of the ehaife holders of tho New Zealand Sugar Co. was held at noon to-day, In tho offices, Queen street, Ml' J. 0, Firth presiding. The rep resentatives of t.ho Press attended; but were told that the proceedings were private.

At a mooting (if tho creditors of Annie Cadman, boarding-house keeper, held at nooii to-day; Mr Tliosi Mncffiii'lano tvas elected trusted The liabilities arc stated at £35 lls 10(1, arid there are no assets,

Thfe Btoeefc'slngtng of tho. Gospel Tempel'fttico Blue Hlfibon Army last night was much enjoyed by tho residents of the streets visited, The ohoir evidently had well prepared for their work-. Wo noticed among the pompany Bomb Wearing tho uniform of tfo§ Salvation Army. At the Various halting places it was announced that the meetings of the mission would be continued in tho Primitive Methodist Schsol-room, Upper Pitt-stt'eot.

To tho Editotf I Slr,^-lri ybur issue of tho 19th 1 natice the attention of, the rate payers of Eden Terracq is being drawn to the way in which their money is being 'spent on the main road. I, as a ratepayer; havo visited tho work, and would like others to do the name. 1. In my opinion; tho amount of money for the clontract, namely, £278, seems, to rtia, on enormous prico for the work now going oa. 2. Has the crthtrrtct been legally let ? 3. Have tho legal documents been submitted to an open meeting of tho trustees? 4* An explanation from.tjhe trustees would oblige.—l am, &c., A lUtki'AYRH.

Mr Di F. E vans held a qaie of allotments situated til KoiiVon Avonuo, Valley Road, Mo'dht Edon, The rooms wore , crowded, but bidding Was not brisk. Lots 1, 2, and 3 realised £2 per foot; 4, £3 10s ; 5 and 6, £1 12s ; 9 and 10, £2 ; 13 and 14, £2 2s Od. Tho unsold allotments are opon fot- pHvato Bale.

The first tileottti« 'at tho creditor/! of John ftowtdri, grain broker; was lldld this morn tug, Mr J. .1. Holland.presiding, when Mr A. D. Bdnnqtt was elected trustee; Tho debtor's liabilities are set down at £390 9s 2d, hnd his assets at nil. Under examination tho debtor stated that thore was a sum of £80 owing to him by aMr Marshall. Ho also stated that he had given a bill of sftlo over Ills furniture io Ono Patterson for tnottoy advanced some tltno back! He had had a deal of sickness In his family* and had b ton utleubcßssful in busineai).

Wm. MeLoughlin was Humnidnejii to-day, on tho information of Constable Foreman; charged with causing an obstruction On the wharf on mail day, tnb iCthinst, Thlß was oti'o of the most unsubstantial charges ever brought boforb tho Court, arid oven tho witnossos for the prosecution showed that McLoughlah was so hemmed In that lib could ikit possibly more but of tho way. But, said the informant, he was impertinent and said ho would not biovbout of the way. Tho Bench said there was tho rub, and dismissed tho casb.

Tho usual bi-weekly Bitting in Chambers wan held this morning by His Honor Mr Justice (Jillios, when probate was granted in ro Elizabeth Dillon and Charles Lo liont illior (deceased); orders mode to regis ter copies of tho wills of Louisa Stevenson and \\ illiam Pilo Gordon (deceased), and letters of ml mi n tot ration ordered to bo issued in ro Putrick H. Thorns, John Duncan Morri moii, and Angus Morrison (deceased). In ro William Twohoy (a dobtor), Mr Dovoro moved for directions for service of sum mons, etc. Hl-i Honor directed that tho summons should issue and bo served by advertisement In Staii and "Herald," In Hoathor y. Ratlin, Mr Coloman, for tho plaintiff, appeared in pursuance of thin summons calling upon tho dofondant to show causo why charging order nisi should not be made absolute. Mr Napior appeared to show causo. His Honor docideu that tho money held by Superintendent Thomson should bo paid over to the trustee In bankruptcy. In Grico and Another v. Aui Waataand othors Mr E. Hosketh (for tho plaintiffs) appeared upon summons issued by defendants (for whom MrAlcxandbr appearod)to show cause why tho proceedings snouM not bo stayed pending appeal. After some discussion thesummonswasdismissed. In re the Trustee in Barclay's Estate v. Humphries, it was ordered that tho question of law Involved in tho cose should bo argued before the trial of tho action, which should bo adjourned ponding its decision.

Members of tho Bond of Hope Union Choir aro notified that a full ri'lioursul of tho ciiitata, " Tlio Iti-flciio of Harry Gray," will tako place to-morrow ovenlnp, In tho Theatre Royal. As this will bo tho final rohcarsal, every mum her should attond, tho performance being an nounced for Monday noxt.

Tho drawing for tho Att Union of oil and water-colour paintings, previously advertised, will take placo to-morrow afternoon at four o'clock in tho shop of Mr Looch, carror and gildor, Shortland-strect.

Parties wishing to males presents flhould examlmi tho largo stock of beautiful Worcester, Drcarton, and other foreign and Kngllsh china bi'lh, ornamonts, &c. at Dorian and Tanflold'n, hoforo making their purchaso clowhero, as they will find at this shop tho largest stock and tho greatest variety In Auckland to chooso

Vivat Regina. Ono Shilling Tickots. I'eoplo (lcslrous of obtaining tickets In my Art Union Bhotild do so at onco, as it is rapidly lllling up. Drawing early noxt month.—Francis J. Su'ortt, HO, Qucen-Btrcet.

SCINTILLATIONS.

Tun Governor 1h at Nelson. llmuaki Volunteers aro disbanded. J. E. Redmond got £100 at Timaru. Anglican Church property in Canterbury to bo Hold. Stool nails aro supors'eding those of iron in America. Captain Harry hog got a purse of monoy from tho canny Scots of Dunodin. Good musicians oxocuto their music, whilo bnd musicians murdorit. A lady Hays monoy ia damp when it's dew in th1 ntorniii' an' mist at night. Profossor Aldis, nppointcd to tho chair of Mathematics In Auckland .University, will bo hero in November. Scandal is liko a tin-kottle tied to a dog's tail—very good fun, no long as it is not our dog. * Elovon prisoners are on tho criminal calondar at Wanganui Supremo Court, which opened this morning. Mies Corswell, who was roportod drowned, is safe and well in Napier. In Melbourno rocontly a man swindled 40 girls by applying for barmaids to go to the Calcutta Exhibition. Tho treatment of leprosy is becoming a hard problem in India. In tho Bombay Prosidoncy 9,483 cases aro under treat ment. His Excellenoy the Governor, who is ac companied by Miss Jorvois and suito, in tends to stay a week at Nelson. The last of tho Oxford's immigrants have been roloased from quarantine at Welling ton. The French are experimenting with a new riflo designed for infantry use, which is said to dischargo three projectiles at a time. According to the " florald'" a speculator has purchased the Waitakerei Falls. What will speculators do next ? Buy up the Hauraki Gulf, or the mountains of the Moon ? It is intended in connection with the pre sent Congregational Jubilee to raise between forty and fifty thousand pounds to liquidate tho debts of the Congregational churches. At Napier, the police are rigidly enforcing tho Employment of Females Act. A seaman on board tho Hinemoa, named James Wilson, sustained severe injuries at Wellington on Sunday by the winch break ing and a horse-box striking him. The Rev. A. G. Fry has boon oloctod Chairman of tho Congregational Union of Now South Wales. Tho pass examinations of the Canterbury Colleco studonts began yesterday and con tinued to-day. Forty-six have onterod, of whom nineteen try for honours. Tho following announcement appears undor tho heading of " Births " in a Well ington paper:—"On Octobor 2, at Bolton Row, tho wifo of F. P. Coveney of a son. A chip of the old'block." ££3 Tho French Republicans aro already putting their heads together to discover the best way of oelebrating, in 1889, the centenary of the French Revolution. The body of Reordan, drowned at Napier, has not yet been recovered. In the case of DeLahaye and Meek, a verdict of "Death from Cold and Exposure" has been re-

turned. The Government of New South Wales have offered a reward of £500 with the view of socuring the apprehension and con viction of the porsons implicated in the Wooloomooloo outrage. Three prisoners are already in custody charged with murder.

Lady Be autikiebs.—Ladies, you cannot make fair skin, rosy cheeks, and sparkling eyes with all tho cosmetics of Franco, or bcautlflors of the world, while in poor health, and nothing will give you Buch rich blood, Rood health, strength, and bottuty as Hop Bitters. A trial ie oortain proof. See.

Messrs J. A. Tole and C. W. Cave (late ot Truvors and Cave, Wellington) have entered into partnership us Barristors and Solicitors and wil carry on business at their offices, next Bank of Now Zealand, Queen-street, Auck laud.-[ADVT.I

CABLEGRAMS.

[BEUMR'a TBLIiOUAMS.]

Sydney, this day. Increase of Population!

The population of Now South Wales at the end of last year, is estimated by the Registrar-General's roturn at over 817,000, an Increase of over 67,000 since the census of April, 1881;

Shipping News. Steamship Tarawera from

Arrived Auckland. Fiji and tho Annexation Conforonce MkiiiiouuNE, this day. The Governor of Fiji, replying to a com munloation from the Viotorian Government, expresses sympathy with the object of tho Annexation Conference, but doubts whether Fiji should bo represented at the Conven tion*

Cable Line Not Working. AJbUlAiljk, October 22, ~ Coirira.unicatioi} by cable between Port Darwin and Banjoewanjie is interrupted.

KAURI AND POHUTUKAWA AS SHIPBUILDING TIMBERS.

TiiK following additional tostimony to the value of those timbers lias been received from Captain H. Dunsford, Marine Surveyor to tho Canterbury Marine Underwriters' Association!--» ,

J1 Ciikistciiurcii, October 17th, 1883. O. P. Piorco, Esq., Chairman N.Z. Marine

Underwriters' Association— Dear sir,—Your favour of th«4th inst. duly came to hand on tho 11th (together with Evknino Star newspaper), drawing my attention to a report on kauri timber from the Surveyor to tho Dunedin Underwriters' Association, and asking for my opinion, Which, I may etato, takes a very adverse direction to that of Mr Rubsoll's.

I coniider kauri ranks high amongst tho shipbuilding timbers of tho world. At tho present time tho C. & U. Cameron is under repairs at this port, having a now keel and kcolson. Hor original nanio was Ellen, built at Auckland in 1804 of pohutukawa, planked With kauri, which is now perfectly sound.

Herald, schooner* 53 tons, built in 1867, opened out and metalled in October last year* built of pohutiikawa, was found perfectly sound. Onward, schooner, 09 tdns, built at Auckland '.a 1867 : The kauri planking is as sound as the day it was wrought; Cleopatra, schooner, 02 tons, built at Mahurangt in 1867: The kauri planking is perfectly Bound, ris also the pohiitukawa frame, excepting a few top timbers, decayed through neglect. Tho Canterbury, schooner, built in tho province in 1855, was planked with kauri; was sound as a rock when wrecked in 1878.

And my experience leads mo to believe that well-fastened Auckland-built vessels will stand a largo amount of punishment whon overtaken by misfortune, e.g., tho Agnes, now Island Lily, and recently tho Forost Queen, —I am, sir, yours faithfully, Henky Dunsi'oiid.

DISTRICT COURT.-Yesterday Concluded.

Gkehn & Fox v. Paul.—A great deal of evidenco was takon in this case, and His Honor rosorved judgment. James Loonky v. Blackmorh CM. Co. Claim, £27 4s, for work and labour.—Mr Earl appeared for plaintiff and Mr Brown ing for defendant.—The action was brought to recover from defendants for work done in tho mine at tho Tiki, Coromandel, at tho rate of £2 8b por week, from the 19th of July, 1882, to tho 9th of OcUber, 1882, and that ho did so work for tho defendants at thoir inino ; that tho defendants have not paid, and have refused to pay tho plaintiff his wages in respect of the said work. That tho plaintiff claims tho sum of £27 4s, 65 days wages. The defence was a denial that plaintiff had been employed by the defendants. Evidenco for the prosecution having boon takon, tho conclusion of the caso was adjourned till to-day. This Day. Loosir v. Blackmoue G.M.C.—Evidence for tho defence was tak.m in this caso, and His Honor deferred his judgment.

Daniel McGearyv. John R. Randkbson. —Claim, £95.—Mr Earl for plaintiff, and Mr Thoo. Cooporfordofendant.—This action was brought by a quarryinnn of Mount Albert against defendant to recover for what he contended was the illegal act of defen dant in driving away three cows which wore rented to plaintiff. Ho claimed £45 damages on this account, and also £50 special damages for loss of profits, and for being compelled by tho seizure to relin quish business.—The dofondant sub mittod that ho rented tho cows to Ellon McGcary, at £1 por month, that thig amount fall into aroars, that tho land lord of tho farm distrained on ono of the cows for his ront, and that tho defondant was justified legally in regaining possession. Tho Court was occupied all tho afternoon hearing evidoneo.

[Left Sitting ]

POLICE COURT.—This Day.

(lioforo J, M. Dargavlllo, Esq., J.P.)

Dkunk.—Four porsons wore fined 5s each and one 10s, with costs.

ANDY'S Work.—Andrew Groy was charged with wantonly breaking a window in Chapel street, tho proporty of George Purchase— Prisoner haa no recollection of tho event. —Constable Whito proved tho charge. Tho prisoner was drunk.—George Purchase deposed that ho lived in Chapclstrcot. The prisoner cam* to the door and pushed it open. Ho was qulto a stranger, and had no business thoro. Ho broko tho fflass.—Fined 10g and coblb, and damage, S3, or 48 hours' Imprisonment. TUB CIUNAMKN.—Tho charges against Ah Chlncotn, of Waktuold-strcot, vroro called on. —Mr Cottor for the defonco.—Mr Theo. Cooper appcarod for tho prosecution, and asked for a remand for some days,- as thoro wero about a dozon Colestlal witnesses in tho caso.—Ko manded until tho 30th inst.

[Hoforo Messrs Dargavillo and Prlmo, J.P.'b.}

Tins Missino Tools.—Thomas Wood was charged with stealing a trowsl and hammer, value 4a M, tho property of James Uoardon.— Prlßonor ploadcd guilty.—Sergeant Whito Bald tho prosecutor, Koanlon, unfortunately got into a ncrapo and was sent to Mount Ktlnn for a short timo. Tho prisoner took advantago of his absonoo by stealing the tools.—Prisoner ex pressed his regret, and as prosecutor was de sirous of withdrawing tho charge, tho liendi dismissed prlsonor with a oaution. Larceny. — William Crossloy was chargod with stealing two raxors, the property of Charles M. Loigh, of Holonsvillc, on tho 22nd inst.— Prisoner pleaded not guilty.—Prosocutor, a storekeeper's assistant, Idontitlcd tho razors as his property. Ho rocognised them as soon ob they were presonted to him by Constable Naughton. They woro taken from his bed room. Constablo Naughton arrested the prisoner at the Holensvillo Hotol (Mr Flood's). lie had been drinking thoro. Ho found tho articles in prisonor-'s pocket.—Joseph Flood, publican, de posed that prisoner had boon staying at his house for some days. Ho was drinking heavily. Ho had no business in Mr Leigh's ucdroom. Nino previous convictions wore recorded against the prisonor.—Sontoncctl to ono month's imprisonment Alleged Obstruction.—Win. McLouculan, the woll-known coachman, wns charged with obstructing tho trafllo on tho wharf on tho 16th inst. with his carriago and pair ot horses.— Defondant pleaded not guilty.—Constablo Fore man stated particulars. Ho was carrying out tho instructions of tho Harbour-mastor. Tho mail was going out, and there was a groat crowd. —Cross-examined by defendant. —John Clark, cab-driver; Thomas Craig, receiver; and Cap tain Burgess, gave evidence for the prosecution. —John Turner, Hobert Campbell, and others showed that defendant was not in fault, that ho was fixed and could not oboy tho constable's orders.—Caso dismissed.

Refusing to Obey.-Pntiick John Foggerty, seaman, pleaded guilty to dtsoboying lawful commands on board the ongantino Dcnanco at Holonsvlllo under oxtonunting circumstances.— Captain Johnson mado a statcmont, and tho Bonch ordered dofendantto forfeit two days'pay and to pay costs. Vkuy Impertinent.—Ted Williams was charged with using insulting language on tho ■9th inst. towards Henry Probcrt, of Koinnora. —Mr Kootloy appeared in dot once, and pleaded not guilty.—Honry Probert, farmer, Homuora, deposed that ho was loavintf tho Railway Station on that day, whon ho said to defendant, "Iknow you." Ho replied, "You may kiss ." Previously there was a party of young persons at his house, whon defendant annoyed the partT with tin kottles and koroslne tins, making tho most hideous noises. Ho wns tho ringloador of tho Un-kottlo company.—To Mr Koetloy : Ho thought defendant might do him BOino bodily harm, and ho wished him bound over to koop tho poaoo.—Thomas Itowo, an In telligent lad, was in Mr Probort's buggy. Hoard bad language from Williams, who shook his fist at Mr Prdbort. — Mr Kootloy, having addrefisod tho Bench, called dofend'nnt, who donied the charge Ho was loavlng Romuora for a distant country.—Ordered to find one surety in fllO to koop tho pcaco for one month. Refusing Wages.—William Robertson was charged with refusing to pay tho sum of £29 to Charles Matthows, duo on tho 20th October, as wages for services rendorcd on board the s.s. Oreti.—Mr Theo. Cooper appeared for claimant, and Mr Luskin defence.—Adjourned until throe o'clock.

The Court adjourned until half-past two o'clock.

A Scolding Woman.—Tho barbarities of the ducking-stool for tho euro of seoldinpr women, though abolished by law, are now oftentimes practised by a kind of social barbarity none tho less reprehensible Women scold only when they are ill. Instead of blaming: thorn wo should prcscribo Hop Rilterß. Tlic entire system will undergo a genial, pleasant change. Tho ncrvea will bo quieted and acerbity ol word and thought will give place to amiability and affection. Healthy women do not scold or (ret. Read.

Best and cheapest place to furnish your housofrom is Garlick and Cramvolls City Hall Arcade. Some beautiful cretonnes and carpets just opened up. Bedroom furnituro ready for mraodiato delivory.-[AnvT. J

TELEGRAMS.

[FIIOM OUII OWN CORRF.SrON'IIKNT.]

• HCiVTXKYj this day. Tho Burning Coal Mine

A largo party of Auckland peoplo are going by tho train to Cambridge to open a lodge of Odd Fellows. In passing the coal mines much interest was shown in watching the thin wreaths of smoke ascending from the ground. , , Mr Collins is doing well; and able to attend to his duties.

The Late Firo at Rangirlrl Hotel,

He the Rangariri fire, Const. Hammond, of Ngaruauahia, has concluded his investi gations and does not consider there is any need to hold an inquiry as he has every reason to think it was accidental. It was insured in the Royal, and not in the South British Oflico. The owner was absent in town owing to the delicate state of his wife's health.

[I'ER PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Kdmaha, this day. House and Storo Burned Down.

A fire, -w liicli completely destroyed Keech and Molloy's lionse and store at AVestbrook, occurred during last night. Only a. few bags of rice and boxes of candles were saved. The probable loss is about C7OO. Barely £40 worth of goods were saved, and the lons is not covered by insurance. The origin of the fire is unknown. The storeman was away at the time.

CniusTcnuitcli, tliia day,

The tourney for tho championship of Christchurch Chess Club has concluded. Mr Mooro is tho winner, having won ten games and lost four. Mr Jacobsen is second, he having won 8 and lost 8.

Dunkdijt, this day; Fires from Railway Engines.

In the Supremo Court the case of Dawson v. the Queen, in which it is sought to fix the liability of the Cro\l m for damage caused by an ■ engine^ sparks, is being hoard;

At tho Redmond meeting £230 were col looted.

Edwards, the pedestrian, has been fined 5s for assaulting a boy at the lato walking match.

LATE SPORTING.

The Melbourne Betting Market.

[ruuter's cable.]

Melbourne, this day. THE following 1b tho latest betting on the

MELBOURNE CCP 11 — 1 agst. Calma 12 — 1 Aide-do-Camp 12 to 1 First Demon 14 — I Lo Grand 16-1 Despot 17 — I Nicholas 20 — 1 Sardius

Taranaki J.C. Spring Meeting.

(BY TELEGRAPH. —PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Njjw Plymouth, this day,

The following weights huve been declared by the Committee for the Taranaki J.C. Spring Meeting : —

Spuing Handicap.—Normanby, 8«t 101b; Hinemoa, Bst 81b; Dan, Sst 51b; Buzzard, Bet 21b; Lord of the Hills, 7st 121b; Hippona, 7st 101b; Landseer, 7st 71b; Raphael, 7st 31b ; Bon Jour, 7st; Patience, Gat 121b.

Flyino Handicap.—Hinemoa, Bst 121b ; Normanby, Bst 101b ; Dan, Sst 81b ; Buzzard, Bst olb ; Hippona, Bst; Landseer, 7st 121b; Salnonia, 7st 71b; Raphaol ( 7st 71b; Bon Jour, 7at 51b ; Patience, 7st; The Pearl, Ost 121b; Ina, Ost. 121b j Gladiola, Cst lib.

Handicap Stekple,—Billy-go-by-'Em, lOst 71b ; Diamatheus, lOst 51bs ; Bugler, lOst 51b; Himalaya, lOst 31b j Gene ral, lOst 31b; Flying Scud, lOst: Reliance, 9st 121b ; Wakorangi, 9st 101b j William, 9st 101b ; Caoutchone, 7st 71b.

DREDGING OPERATIONS.

Proposed Fllling-In of Freeman's Bay.

An important report on this subject has boon submitted to tho Harbour Board by Mr D. E. McDonald, but want of space

prevents us from giving moro than an abstract. The writer recommends as tho most suitable drodgo to obtain a single storn ladder bucket-dredger capable of drodging to a depth of 30 feet, and raising about 250 tons per hour. All tho parts of tho dredging machinory subject to heavy wear should bo of steel, the top and bottom tumblers to be of cast steel, and tho buckets to have their backs and ends of steel, cast in ono piece, each bucket to bo of an approved shape, and capable of holding about fifteen cubic feet. The dredge could bo kept constantly vt work, and working oxponses would be the samo as thoso of the bucket-dredge Alpha, and she would raiso and deliver any ordinary material into the silt punts at a cost of about 2d per ton. Mr McDonald then referred to to the dopths of mud-tinted pink on the ac companying plan, and estimated that there were 74u,000 cubic yards of mud requiring to be dredged out. Tho wholo of this area, ho said, with tho exception of a fow patches alongside the Quoen-streot Wharf,is covered by shallow water, and by removing this mud the said portion of the harbour would bo available for vessels of deep draught. For instance, by removing tho mud at the Quoon-atroot Wharf, tho steamer Doric, ■wiaosg deep level draught is twonty-soven foot, could bo easily borthed closo up to tho toll-house. And whilst the Board aro orecting now toes and crowding the whole of tho slapping trado at tho outer end of tho Quecn-streot Whnrf, a length of about 1,100 lineal feet of this wharf is uso loss, except for small vessels, owing to the shallow water at this part of it; whereos,by dredging out tho mud, tho largest class of vessois could bo berthed there. The same state of things exists at the Railway Wharf. Vessels of ordinary draught can only be kept afloat by being borthed at the north or outer end of the wharf, owing to shallow wator; wheroas, if the wholo of the mud was removed, about 800 lineal feet of berth ing would be available with bold deep water to lie in. Again, taking the berthage at the masonry sea wall from A to B, and from the line of which it is proposed to extend at an early date two permanent tees, the whole length of this berthage is quite dry at low water spring tides ; and upon roforonco to tho plan you will sco that tho depth of mud ranges from 6ft. to 30ft. deep. Now, the removal of this mud would allow largo vessels of deep draught to be safely berthed there. Thus, tho great ex tent of really valuable wharfage—nearly 2,500 lineal feet, is at present useless except for smaller vessel* Additional wharf space is not so much required as depth of water in tho present berths. The presont dredging plant, if kept constantly at work, would require nine or ten years to dredge and remove the 746,000 cubic yards of mud. By tho addition of tho proposed dredge, with sufficient tonnago of punts, tho whole of tho above mud could bo dredged out and removed in three and a-half years. This quantity would be sufficient to fill and reclaim tho whole of Freeman's Bay, and thus not only would deep bold water be provided, but the Board would bo placed in possession of about 21 acres of reclaimed land in tho city, the value of which would pay for tho wholo cost of dredging plant and tho cost of dredging. Tho remainder of the report dealt with dredging operations in the South, and Aus tralia, and stated tho following quantity of silt sand, mud, and clay removed during 1882:—New South Wales Government, 1,813,296 tons; South Australia, 401,348 cubic yards; Melbourno, 786,253 cubic yards; Otago Harbour Board, 406,678 cubic yards; Lyttolton, 274,680 cubic yards; Auckland, 25,961 cubic yards.

MINING.

The following items are extracted from managers' reports received this morning :—

Kurujtui Hill United.—At No, 9 sec tion the drive is making rapid progress, and the lode continues etrong,though somewhat split occasionally. About 40 feet more driving will bring work into the run of country which yielded well on upper level. The present stopes in All Nations will shortly be worked out, but others can be soon in hand if the crushing turns out pay able, and it can scarcely fail to do so. Kelly's stopes are well opened up, and. a trial crushing lias been got out.

Aii effort is being made to form a new rowing club in Auckland, and with this object in view a meeting of all interested in the matter is convened for Wednesday evening noxt at the Waitemata Hotel.

ACCIDENTALLY SHOT.

Intelligence was received in town to-day of a deplorable accident at AVaiukii. The following telegram on the subject has beeii reoeived by Superintendent Thomson, from Special Cohstablo Parker :— " Henry Braun, a lad, was accidentally shot with a revolver after dusk last night, by a settle* named_ Anthony May. The boy is now in a precarious state."

THE ASYLUM MURDER.

Gschnoll to be placed on Trial.

It is understood that the man Antonio Gschnell, against whom a verdict of wilful nnuder was. returned at the recent inquest at the Asylum, is to be placed on his trial for the murder of James John Mills at the next Criminal Sessions of the Supreme Court. The varioiis attendants at the Asylum who give evidence at tho Asylum have been ordered to appear at the Supreme Court in connee' tion with the case. It ißexpectcdthatasapre liminary B. Gschnell will be brought before a magistrate and duly committed for trial.

SHOCKING GUN ACCIDENT.

A Man's Brains Blown Out.

(Ijy TEtisoiurir.—raiiss association.)

Balclutha, this dky. A number of Wilmott's Combiiiiitibii Troupe, who are here at present, intended going out rabbit shooting thlß mornltig; Frank Hpywood, pianist, while getting his gun ready iri a bedrooni at the Criterion Hotel, was blowing down the barrel tp ascertain if it was clear, while Fraiijc Simmons, another, of, the trpupe, was hold ing a lighted match at the nipple. Thb Shot went off In Kenwood's mouth, and came out at tlib crown of his head, throwing abrdtid his brain dnd [portions of his skull In all directions. Death was instantaneous, Aii inquest takes place this afternoon:

SURREY HILLS ESTATE—SALE TO-MORROW.

An Informal meeting of the City Council was held this afterndon, Acting Mayor Waddel presiding, to consider the question of tho sale bf tho Surrey Hills estate; ana the advisability or otherwise of taking wtibil thereanent. Tho only members of the Coun cil absent were the Mayor' and Cr; George. Mr Hickson's plans for the laying but (if the estate were submitted and discussed; but there was rio communication from the owners to show what their intentions were or what they would consent to do; In thfl absence, therefore, of any proposal; offtrj information, or statement of terms froitt the company owning tho estatej the Council dbcided that they could do nothing in the matter, it being considered that if there bad been anj wish to make an arrangement with the city, negotiations would have been opened up.

The first sale of allotments on this magplfi cent estate will, therefore, take place at, noon to-morrow at Messrs Tonks and Co.'b ' Mart, Queen-street. This valuable property is too well known to need description, ft corriprlßes sonic of the finest residence sites i.i the vicinity of the city, convenient to tramways, and other arterial lines of traffic. The allotments to be offered to morrow includo some of the very best oil tho estato for residences or villas, with frontages to Ponsonby, Great North, and Richmond Roads, and having easy access to metalled roadways. The sale has been looked forward to with great interest, and will doubtless attract a large attendance

SALVATION RIOTING AT OAMARU.

[by telegraph—press association.] Oamabc, Monday. • A disgraceful scene was enacted at tho

Salvation Army meeting last night. Ever ' since the Army opened here the meetings havo been attended by a large body of H "larrikins," who, though doing little positive mischief, havo made affairs pretty lively.:;-^ Last nightmeasureß were taken by the Army* *>? to oxchido all doubtful characters, every ap plication for admission being scrutinised by m a number of door-keepers. Scores were re fused admission, and now they resented this ; will bo seen by the sequel. The larrikins I mustered to tho number of about 200, drew the police away by getting up a sham-fight i | in the neighbourhood, and the main body,:,;': then rushed the doors of the Volunteer Hall, and carried them by hform. Once In side, they gave tho Army to understand % that they were there to stop procoedfags. m Choers were given for the Skeleton Army,; and the hall, which was packed, became a:■ surging mass of excited humanity. Eggs';f-^ and other unsavoury things wore thrown at;:^ the occupants of tha stage, and the wholo scene became one of the wildest excitements '' Captain White, waving his handker- .• ohief above his head, led off B |jS hymn, in which the words " Wo shall win " , ->\ frequently occurred, and was joined by ' ■' those on the platform. The larrikins re- - plied by singing the same hymn, particular jfl emphasis being given to the line ""We ■ shall win." At the conclusion of the meeting tho larrikins followed "Captain": ■ White, who happens to bo a black, up and down soveral of tho Btreots of the town, throwing stones and rotten ogge at their ■ victim, as well as generally amongst the« B crowd. Tho police had come to the rescue of tho captain, but their efforts were un availing to stem tho torrent of rowdyism that shrieked and howled after the unfor tunate Salvationist. Captain White, how- j ; over, reached his lodgings in safety, ft v was known that last night would complete White's services hore, and the roughs wished to give him "a demonstrative farewell." Captain White left Oamaru to-day. ,

CORRESPONDENCE.

Eden Terrace Road District.

(To the Editor.) Sib,—ln reply to a correspondent In last evening's Stab ro valuations, allow-me: t0p..:;.; state that the valuers have nothing to do; with the amount of rate levied, nor yet with: the unjustifiable waste of publio money - now taking place in that district; _ that there should be an amount of indignation in the district is only what might be expected,' and if the ratepayers do not hold an In-.-, dignation meeting, and so saddle the, blame on the right parties, they • deserve to be compelled to payffor'r r ' their Chatraian'B folly, if not worse, - if what lam informed is correct^ viz., tnat1 I the contract for the work now going on in , | that district was let at a meeting of the Board, and at which Board meeting there were but three members present) and, further, that one of the trustees then' present protested against the work being done and tho district burdened with an" 11 extra rate, but was overruled by the Chaa- ■ man, who stated that it could notbe objected,1 B to for the best of reasons, i.e., that he, the Chairman, had accepted the tender an*< signed the contract without submitting the contract to the Board for approval or re- ; jection. And|while on this subject, allow me to suggest to the ratepayers of Eden Terrace the desirability of calling in question their, Chairman's conduct re the misapplication , of tho money received under the Roads ana Bridges Construction Act, 1882. The * money obtained under that Act was-never intended for grading roads already mftQß, ' ? but to construct roads not previously made. With referenco to the assessment roll being a complete bungle, allow me to inform your correspondent that ho (let him be who ho may) is not competent to make out an assessment roll, for want of the know- ( - ledge upon which properties should be valued, as evidenced by his statement, . i.e., other properties on leasehold ground are rated at fully their freehold value. How should they be rated for local purposes? Should the ground be charged to the owner and the buildings to the ,• lossee? Again, the statement that a pro- m perty valued by me at £1,700 would not ; now fetch £1,000 must be accepted with » very large pinch of salt. I have no doubt that, the senseless waste of money now taking place in that district would very consider- | ably lower the value of property in the district, but not to the extent s stated by your correspondent, so that the valuer is not answerable for the fall in-1| value of this property, seeing that tho valuer H and owner agreed as to the value to be: :>;. placed on this property. With reference-;,^ to tho increase of rates from oO's to £8 6s eu\: || the valuer has nothing to do with tiiat., ;; f | Valuers do not strike the rate, nor yet. do i they determine how many rates shall bo , levied.—l am, &c, John G. Ditkb. ■!>"s§■ Assessor Eden Terrace. ■ . I

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 188 S.



Special Advertisements. FTwo Happy Hours you wish to spend Theatre Royal on Thursday you should attend; : Sympathetic accord and harmony blend At Professor Swallow's Concert, Dress Circle, 3a; Stalls, 2s; Pit, Is. . 158 & 160 PLEASE CALL Queon-st 158 & 160 PLKASE CALL Quoon-st 158 & 160 PLEASE CALL Qucen-st 158 & 160 Queen at 158 & 160 AND INSPECT Uuoon-st 158 & 160 AND INSPECT Queen-at 168 St. 160 AND INSPECT Quoon-et 168 & 100 Queon-st 158 & 160 GRAND DISPLAY Queen^t 158 & 160 GRAND DISPLAY Qucen-st 158 & 160 GRAND DISPLAY Queon-st 158 & 160 Queon-st 168 & 160 NEW GOODS Queen-st 158 & 160 NEW GOODS Queen-st I<* Be 160 NEW GOODS Queon-st 158 & 160 Quoon-st ! 158 & 160 JUST OPENED. Qucen-st 158 & 160 JUST OPENED. Queen-st 155 & 160 JUST OPENED. Qucen-st 158 & 160 Queen-st 168 & 180 Qucon-Rt 158 & 160 Quoen-Bt JSB & 160 ' 61 CASES Queen-st 158 & 160 61 CASES Quoon-st 158 & 160 61 CASES Quoon-st 158 & 160 Uuoon-st ISB « 160 NEW CLOTHING Queon-st 158 & 160 NEW CLOTHING Qucen-st 158 & 160 NEW CLOTHING Quoen-Bt 158 & 160 . Queon-st 168 & 160 HATS & HOSIERY. Qucen-st 158 & 160 HATS & HOSIERY. Queon-st 153 & 160 HATS & HOSIERY. Queen-st ■ - 158 & 160 . Quoon-st 158 & 160 Queen-st 158 & 160 Quoon-st 15S & 160 ; Queen-st 158 & 160 Queon-st 158 & 160 THE NEW ZEALAND Queon-et 158 & 160 Queen-st 158 & 160 CLOTHING FACTORY, Quoon-st 158 & 160 Quoen-st 158 & 160 Queex-sthkht, Qucen-st 168 & 160 Qucon-st 158 & 160 . Auckland. Queen-st 168 & 160 Quoen-st 153 & 160 Queen-st 158 & 160 J. ITTZSIMONS,, Suoon-st 158 & 160 . Queen-st 158 & lOC , Branch Manager. Qucen-st JtVEMARKABLY CHEAP LINES IN DRESS MATERIALS, &a, CLOTHING, &a, AT WILLIAM R. BKIDGMAN'S. « ( 500 Yards' Plain Cold Lustres, 4}d, 5Jd,6Jd . Hd 800 Yards Fancy Dress Goods, 4 Jd, 5 d,7lc «« 2000 Yards do, Bd, IOJd, Is . ; JS Vancy Silk Mixed Checks. Is yard >?O 30 Fancy Print Shirts, 2a Bd half pneo . d w 50 Pairs Net Curtains from 2s Od pair -■&■< »o7 Whitoand Unbleached Linen Damasks •S5 Tablo Covors, all sizes, from is 6d each o^ Large Assortment Capes, Dolman Crfpes, 2 g Shawls, and Squares, from 13 (d, less zl m thtai half-prico 9a 12 Ladles' Silk Jackets, from 17s 6d, ~ \ worth Double 500 Pieces New Prints, from 3Jd, Now Plain and Fancy Sateens Good Assortment Now Cashmeres and Nuns1 veilings Whlta and Qroy Calicoes, Wholesale Prico by Pleco, net cash Boys'and Youths' Tweed Suits, 12s 6d. groat bargains Boys' and YouthB1 Molo Trousers, from 4s 3d Men's Tweed Trousers from os 6d, 0s 6d, 7s 6d, Bs9d Men's, _Boys', and Youths' Straw Hate in great Job Lot of Carpets, to bo cleared out Cheap, to make room; Felt Carpet, Uin. wide, Is 6jd yard: Tapestry Carpet, 2s Id ; Brussels, 3s 6d; Kidderminster, 2a lid; Splendid Assort ment Floorcloths, from Is 2d yard. . 'Fire per cent. Discount on Cash Purchases over 20s. . JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE. Racing Tricycle.—One of the Cele brated "Humber" Machines at Simkesi-eab and Co.'s, Quoen-street. "Domestic" Sewing Machines, Best and Simplest—Shakesfeab and Co., Sole Agente, Queen-street. Twelvbpence.—Hay's Fine Art Union (by permission of the General Government), flf t7 prizes-censistinjr of valuable Oil Paintings and other excellent Pictures by and after cele brated artists. Prizes on view, and inspection invited at Mr Bailey's, tobacconist, 176, Queen street (next Mrßattray's, Draper), where tickets . janDO obtained: also at moat of the booksellers Sftct,*S,K{? ai Bub? rbß: The drawing will take ' X. tSfei° k ' whion due noMoo will be ; Sb«^t^ m te t i2?ervlßod by a committee . Alter hScltot S™ Present at drawing.



Special Advertisements. Christmas Cards OF NEW ZEALAND VIEWS. THESE VERY CHOICE CHRISTMAS CARDS will (,'ivo frionds in England and elsewhere a good idea of the Beauties and Wonders oh- the "BRITAIN OF THE SOUTH." J. MAORILAND. 2. ) NATURE'S FROLICS IN NEW ZEA 3. 1 LAND. 1. MOUNTAIN, LAKK, AND FORD. 5. LAKE AND MOUNTAIN SCENERY. 6. HOT LAKES AND TERRACSS. 7. CHRISTCHURCH. 8. DUNEDIN. 9. GREAT COMET OF 18S2. Price, One Shilling each. Sent to any address on receipt of Is Id in gtampß. N.B.—The 'Frisco Mail, leaving Auckland on November 6th, reaches London on December 17th. The Sole Vkndok of ran Aiuvk 18 WILLIAM RATTRAY, DRAPER, CLOTHIER, & SILK MERCER, 178, 180, AND 182, QUEEN-STREET. AUCKLAND. -DETIRING FROM BUSINESS] SELLING OFF! SELLING OFFI SELLING OFF! John Lee k. RETUUNG FROM BUSINESS. RETIRING FROM BUSINESa RETIRING FROM BUSINESS. HIS WELL-ASSORTED STOCK SELLING OFFI SELLING OFFI SELLING OFF! AT AND UNDER COST PRICE, RETIRING FROM BUSINESa RETIRING FROM BUSINESS. RETIRING FROM BUSINESS. PREMISES LET. SELLING OFF! SELLING OFF! SELLING OFFI STOCK MUST BE CLEARED. ALL ACCOUNTS not paid beforo 31st OCTOBER will bo handed to his Solici tor for recovory. ONE MONTH! AT AND UNDER COST PRICE. JC 0 S G It A V E • COSGRAVE Begs to announce that ho has RETURNED FROM SYDNEY AND MEL BOURNE WITH A COMPLETE STOCK OF NEW GOODS, COMPLETE STOCK OF NEW GOODS, Purchased undcrmostfivourablooircumstanccs, consisting of — DRAPERY, MEN'S AND BOYS' CLOTHING, Which will be oponod in his NEW PRKMTSTiia IN QITTCKV-STUHBT, Opposite Messrs MoArthur & Co.'b Warchouao, IN A FEW DAYS. J. COSGRAVE & CO. direct particular at tention to tholr importation of Men's and Boys' Clothing, which is composed of UEKLONQ TWKBDB. MILLINERY AND DRESSMAKING, Under first-class experienced hands, will be carried on. J. COSGRAVE AND CO., QUKBjr-HTRKKT, Opposite Messrs McArthur's Warehouse. TK consequence of the continual demand ■*- for inexpensive but at the same time reli able Artificial Tooth, Mr Cross*, Dentist, of Queen-street, adopts this means of informing his patients that in future ho will supply the best olasa of Artlflolal Teeth, on vulcunlto base, with superior workmanship, at It's 6a per tooth. This is the cheapest and most satisfactory de scription of Artificial Tooth obtainable in the Colony, and for which patients frequently pay a guinea a tooth. Celluloid, though not recom mended, will be supplied at the same price. Tooth will only bo extracted at half-price, viz., 2s 6d, only between the hours of 9 to 10 a.m. and I to 5 p.m. mHORNTON, SMITH, AND FIRTH HkVE FOR SALE: "Crown" Flour, in sacks, 100's and fiO's ** Champion" do. do. do. "Cantab" do. do. do. Sharps ' " Bran Wheat Continuation of cheap drapery & clothing sale. H. AT X INS Begs to thank his numerous Patrons for th wonderful success of his CHEAP DRAPERY AND CLOTHING SALE, And also to announco that he has succeeded in securing from the New Purchasers a Lease of his present premises. H. ATKINS Begs also to say that as the WHOLE STOCK Has been RE-MARKED IN RED, He will continue his Sale for a Few Weeks Longor, and the Whole Stock will still be offered AT HEAVY REDUCTIONS Off the usual price. ALL NEW GOODS WILL BE SOLD For a short time at about WHOLESALE PRICE. JOB STOCKS IN DRESS MATERIALS, OR JOB STOCK OF ANY DESCRIPTION AT ANY PRICE. CHEAP LINES ARE CONSTANTLY BEING BOUGHT, AND ARE ALL MARKED AT VERY LOW PRICES. H. ATKINS, DRAPER, CLOTHIER, &c. Milne & Choyce Are now showing a Splendid Assortment of Spring Dress Materials in all tho newest makes and colourings, SILKS AND SATINS FANCY DRESS MATERIALS CASHMERES •MERINOS NUNS' VEILING BEGES SELF CHECKS FANCY CHECKS BURANO LACE CLOAKS TURKISH TWILLINGS SATEENS -PLAIN & PRINTED CAMBRICS Do. ZEPHYR GINGHAMS INDIAN LAWNS GALATEAS. A Large Variety of White and Coloured Wash ing Materials. FIVE % DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT CASH. *£3£S£*i!tsg2hS2l haß Charge °( the 2W & 246, Queen-street.



Special Advertisements. Ask your grocer for HOFFMAN & SCHMIDT'S WASHING AND BLEACHING POWDER. Tako only tho KILO PACKETS, Weighing Ulb each. Pihcb: (to. THE BEST AND CHEAPEST WASHING POWDER KNOWN. IMPROVES COLOURS "DROWN PAPER. BROWN PAPER, JUST ARRIVED, A lame consignment of BROWN PAPER, in tho following useful sites:— 31 x 16 BROWN PAPER 30 x 48 BBOWN PAPKIt 10 x 50 BROWN PAPER 10 x CO Made at the Woodlaugh MIUb, Duncdin. Kqual to the best English mako. Splendid value. Sumplcs and Prices on application to COLLINS HROS. & CO COLLINS BROS. & CO., Papor Merchants, 89, Quoeii-Btroot. Tho Dangors of Patent Medioinoa.—Many of these nostrums should bo sodulously avoided, because thoy nro manufactured with nn oyo to trrwlo. Th« moat -loudly rimiira am nffon in. corporatod in tho admixture, and swift poisons utilised In their colouring. An Elixir liko Udom-ho Wolfk's Schiedam Aromatic ScnSAl-I'B may bo used with Impunity, its in gredlonts harlng been tested by eminent medical authorities.