SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATffR /This Evening, 8.4 *UUH WATER ; To . morrow Morning, 8.22 SONSKT.-Thia Evening. 5.31 BUNRIBE.-To-morrow Morning, 6.28 MOOira AGE.-FuU Moon, 10th. 11.23 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY,

■WeHiriuron, s.s., Farquhar, from Tauranga Ulenolg, s.s., Stephenson, from RusboH

DEPARTURES.

Energy, schooner, Francis, for Grey Mouth Waiwera, schooner, Buaholl, for Russell

Inwabds Coastwise. — Rose, from Mahu rangi, with io tons firewood; Progress, from Whangapoua. with 29,000 ft. timber: Pukapukft, from T>ort Fitzror. with ifi.OOOft. timber; Moraury, from Tairua, with 21,000 ft. timber; Fannio, from Whangapoua, with 23,000 ft. timber.

Outwakds Coastwise.—Rose, for Whan- J?arei: Progress, for Whangapoua; Pukapuka, for Mmigateo; Morcury, for Tairua ; Fannie, for Whangapoua.

The p.s. Enterprise was floated out of dock this morning.

A echooner, supposed to be the Endeavour, from Lyttelton, was signalled late this after noon.

The 8.8. Waitaki will arrive from Whangarei about 7 this evening. Sho leaves on an excur sion to Waiwera to-morrow, and proceeds to Whangarei immediately after.

Tho s.s. Wellington arrived from Tauranga at 5.30 a.m. to-;lay, with the following paßsen gers:—Mesdamesßryce, Downey, Shaughnessy, and Gillespie. Mr and Mrs Knight, Her. Mr Burrowcs, Master Sydney, Messrs Grace, Pigott, Black, Carder, Shaughnessy. Jlamson, B"rasor, W. Jaggs, and the Kennedy family (6).

Tho 8.8. Glenelg arrived from P.useoll this morning with the following passengers:—Capt. Johnson, Messrs Aitkinson, Woodward, Gal braith, Messrs Kewys, Howard, White. Mr and Mrs Henderson, Mrs Knee, Miss Wild, Miss Atkinson, Mr Parker, Mr Adiynson, Sergeant Clarke, Mr Clark, Mr Hill, Mr Davey, Rev. Colbourno, Messrs Manley, Farray, Tealy, Hobson, Butterworth, Hales, and 10 steerage. The s.s. Macgregor arrived from Whangaroi on Thursday evening, with 14 boxes buttor, 21 sacks gum, 75 cases fruit, 11 boxes eggs, 7 crates fowls, 6 turkeys, and the following passengers: Messrs Conagan. Isenunger, Bain, Bell, Blacher, MoLean, Shoal, Family, Horn, Williams. Douglas, Johnstone, Macguire, Johnson, and Ferrystono. Rev. Macnicol, Mcsdames Dawson, Hon, and Macniceol. Miss Mackenzie.

The following are the movements of the Union Company's steamers as arranged for the ensuing ■week: —To arrive—Wanaka, from Taranoki, Sunday, 10 a.m.; W&ihoraJrom Gisborne, Mon day, 9 a.m.; Waihora, fronT Kussoll, Thursday, 6 a.m. To loavc—Wanaka, for Taranaki, Tues day, 10 a.m.; Waihora. for Russell, Tuesday, 5 p.m.; Waihora, for Gißborne, Thursday, 12 (noon).

ARRIVAL OF THE ENDEAVOUR.

The schooner Endeavour arrived frcm Lyttelton at 2.30 to-day, after a pasango of il days, with a cargo of oats, potatoes, flour, and Wheat.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Hauraki 8.5., Harvey, from Waitara Douglas, 5.8., Scott, from Mokau Argyle, 8.8.. Amodco. ftom Waitara Lalla Rookh, s.s.. Bailey, from Waitara

DEPARTURES.

Hauraki. s.s,, Harvey, for Waitara Lalla Rookh, s.s., Bailey, for Raglan

The s.B. Haurakl arrived from Waitara yestor fiay morning with 11 horses, 250 sheop and 8 packages butter. Sho left at 10 o'clock today for the name port

Tho 8.8. Douglas arrived from Mokau yester day morning. She leaves for Kawhla at 10 4 o'clock on Monday morning. The 8.8. Argylo arrived from New Plymouth this morning at 8 o'clock, with 100 sacks bran and 50 packages. The s.s. Lalla Rookk arrived from Waltara at 10 o'clock yesterday morning, with 20 cattlo and 110 ahcep. Sho lett tor Raftlan at 1 o'clock to-day. Tho b.s. Huuraki left for Waitara at 10 o'clock to-day.

Tho Union Crmpany's s.s. Wanaka Is due from the South to.morrow morning, and should .arrive at the wharf about 9 o'clock.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Gisbobne, yesterday.—Arrived: Ringarooma, from Auckland, 5 p.m. This day.—Arrived: Southern Cross, from Auckland. Wiiangabei, this day.—Arrived: Waitaki, from Auckland, 6 a.m.; Rowena, from Auck land, 7 a.m. Hblensville, thla day.—Arrived: Celcstia, barque. Lyttelton, this day.—Arrived: Kawaliri, from Westport; Taiaroa, from Wellington. Sailod. 10th: Waihora, for Auckland; 11th. Koranui, for Timaru.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails will Close as under i— This Day.

For Wangarei Heads. Parua. Wnipu, Wan farei, Kamo, Tansihua, ami Mangapai, por lacgregor, at 5 p.m. Monday, 11th inst, Foi' Waitara, por Hannah JVlokau, at 8 10 a.m. For Coromundcl, per Coromandcl. at 5.30 p.m. For Thames, por Rotomahana, at 5 p.m. For Whangaroi Heads, Whangarci, Kamo, and BMangapai, per Waitaki, at 5 p.m. Tuesday, 15th inst. For Taranaki and Southern Ports, per Wanakn, at 7.40 a.m. For Waiwera, ICavvau, Omaha, Matakana, and' Warkworth. per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Tonga and Samoa, per Myrtle, at 1 p.m. For Tauranga, Ohinemutu, finrt OWOtiki, per Glenelg, at I p.m. For Whitiangi and Up;Kt Mill, por Rowona, at 5 p.m. For Russell, Kawakawn, Wangaroa, and Mon gonui, por Wellington, at 5 p.m. Wednesday. r6th IhM. For Coromandel, per Coroimmdcl, at 11.3) a.m,

Satu)!>M.Y, 26th inst.

For S;-dTay kl-hd, per -Explorer, at 1 p.m.

Tuesday, 20th inst. Per R.b. Australia, ns follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United Stfttea of America, Canada, British Columbia, Cdntrol arid Sputli America, tehd Brft'sn and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.n^. For United KmgaOtn and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. For money orders, registered lottera and newspapers, at 11.30 a.m. Late lotters, bearing an extra feo of six pence in addition to the postage, Will bo receivod by tho Mail Agent on board tho Bteamor up to tho time of sailing. This mail will bo duo in London on Sat urday, June 7,1884,

B. B. BIS 9, Chlof Postmaster, Chlof PostofHco, Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

April 12, ISSI,

Market Rosorvo—Great World Circus, 8 p.m. Excelsior Hall—Glove Contest, 8 p.m. United Sorvloo Hotel—lCmergoncy Mooting, i pm,

Working Men's Club—Meeting of Seamen's Union, 7.30 p.m. Reclamation—Australian Blondon, 8 p.m. Young Men's Christian Association—Dovo tional; Address, &c. 7.30 p.m.

Birth.

DOHGKH.—On April B, nt tho Sugar Works, Northcotc, the wifo of 11. J. Uorger of a son. O'KEEFKR-At Claremont Stores. Kyber Pass Hoad, on tho 9th of April, tho wifo of Patrick O'KoofTerof a son; both doing well.

Marriage.

SPENCK—MILNE.—On April 10. at Dovonport, North Shore, by tho Hey. J. Kobcrison, M.A.. assisted by tho Roy. Uiiinsford Bavin, tho ltev. Goorgo W. J. Sponco to Jessie, youngest daiwntor of John Milne, Ksq., Ilolmhurst, North Shore

Deaths.

GUNNING.-On April U, at Short-street, Now murkot, Jamos Allison Clirißtophor, youngest son of J. and M. Gunning. Tho funbral will luavo nls parents' residence to-morrow (Sunday), at four o'clock. Friondß please accept this invitation. NOONK-On April 11, Arthur Thomas, infant son of W. 11. and C. Noono; aged Umouttiß. RATTRAY.-On April 11th. at hor lato rosl dence. Devonport, Mary, tho beloved wife of Captain William Rattray. In tho 81st year of her ago. Tho funornl will lenvo North Shoro Wharf at 2 p.m., and Queen-street Wharf at 2.15 p.m. tomorrow (Sunday). Friends please accept this Intimation. WILLETTS.-At Harapipi, Walkato, on SOth March, Jemima, beloved wife of Mr Siunuel Willetts, North Shore, and dniiKhtcr of Duyid Fatlayßon, Harapipi; used 32. Deeply regret ted.

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

SATURDAY, APRIL 12. 1884.

For the cause that lacks assistance. For tire wrong that neoda reslstanoS. For the futuro in tho distance. And tho good that wo can do.

A wishy-washy litorary production ia a sufficiently heavy infliction, but a parody on it is simply intolerable. In liko wise, it is a groat bore to listen to or read a barron political address, but when it comes to wading through a droary criticism of it, the task becomes absolutely sickening. Those who have any tasto for tho higher politics—which in Now Zealand moans anything outside of selfish scheming on behalf of particular districts—must havo been thoroughly disgusted by the' speech of Mr Montgomery, M.H.R., at Akaroa on Thursday night. The address in question, of which we givo a very brief summary, was announced with a flourish of trumpets as an intended complete and crushing roply to Major Atkinson's Hawera speech. In one respect it has been most successful. Its doleful utterances regarding tho depression of colonial trado, and the ruinous state of colonial finance, form a perfect antithesis to tho roseate optimism of the Premier. In every other respect, the speech is a miserable failure. If Major At kinson did not disclose any very original or brilliant method of relieving the present financial pressure, Mr Montgomery has done l ess —he has almost made the subject ridi culous. The very baldness of the Premier's policy in this direction offored a splendid opportunity for a man of political i ability; that opportunity we pre sume Mr Montgomery saw, and did his best to take advantage of. And what is his best? Hie platform has three "planks" and the first and best is stolen from Major Atkinson—reform of the Civil Service I Then Mr Montgomery would cease the borrowing policy, and he would tax absentee landowners. These two latter " planks " seem to disclose a cunningly devised Echeme for appropriating English capital without paying interest, and if only Mr Montgomery can show it to be practicable he will deserve the thanks of tho colony. It is plain that the Premier is prepared to go much further than the imposition of a land tax in limiting the powers of landowners j indeed, tho hon. gentleman's remarks on land tenure have quite taken away the breath of Mr Mont gomery, who can only iterate and reiterate the cry—" What does it all mean?" It means evidently that the Opposition has had the wind taken out of its sails on the land question, and that the only difference | between it and the Government on political questions is the matter of borrowing. Au reste Mr Montgomery's address is , ' made up of a sermon on his favourite text — "Otago and Canterbury are the colony," At tho outset he strikes i this koyuote by describing the lamentable state of trade in "tho most important provinces," ond ho returns, to it ever and anon by dragging in the ques tions of decentralisation and tho new rail way tariff. He accuses the Premier of narrowness, but in the whole of Major Atkinson's speech there is not a trace of the barefaced selfishness and brutally candid Provincialism which obtrude them selves in nearly every sentence of that of the Opposition leader. From beginning to end, with the exception of occasional inter ludes on general topics, Mr Montgomery's speech is a harping on tho ono string of Northern injustice to tho South—a wail of lamentation and a threat of vengeance. He even finds a grievance in tho fact that tho South Island has no "native diffi culty " and is thus deprived of a steady expenditure of public money! He grumbles in like manner because the Southern railways pay, and tho Northern ones don't. If he could only look at things from our stand-point, ho would rather rejoice at these circumstances ; for the absence of native trouble means unre stricted facilities for commercial expansion, and the profitable character of the railway traffic proves that the people are not so destitute, nor trade co stagnant, as the Canterbury howling dervishes would try to persuade us. The speech would have been incomplete without a declara tion that the Opposition were anxious for 'an opportunity of upsetting tho Government. According to Mr Mont gomery, tho chief function of the Opposi tion is to " turn tho rascals out," and seize upon office and the sweets thereof. Last session, this doctrine was acted upon, and we are promised this year a repetition of the non-edifying spectacle. Mr Mont gomery therein differs from his colleague, Mr Macandrew, who said when interviewed here that no attempt would be made to oust tho Ministry. But Mr Montgomery has not the caution and astuteness of Mr Macandrew, and he will go on courting and accepting defeat after defeat, oblivious of the fact that every unsuccessful attack on a Government only strengthens it. And if his Parliamentary leader

ship in tho coming session may bo gauged by this extra -Parliamentary utter ance, defeat is certain. The Premier's address was not a strong ono, but it is abso lutely strengthened by such criticism as has been offered ; his policy may not be an ad mirable ono per sv, but it is beautiful, and grand, nnd comprehonsivo in comparison with that sketched out by the leftdev oC tlio Opposition.

His Worship tho Mayor atjcftinimuled Captain Ariji and tiro ttilicorS of the Japanese warship o» ft visit to the Lunatic Asylum yestevday, spending two hours in a minute examination into ttll tlolails of patients' wards, el*?.-, f)l\ Young acting as cicerone. _ They afterwards proceeded to tho Ht'ocUado, where tho Oaolcv. Mr Recetin, accompanied the party, and a long visit was nt.-vao and numerous inquiries undertaken. From thence theparty proceeded to the Hospital, whoro they were 'attended by Dr. Bond, Hospital Sur geon, and after a minute examination of all details, expressed their satisfaction and pleasure at the visit. Captain Ariji consi dered the Hospital a great institution, and the Gaol diet better than in Japan, but tho supervision much more strict.

Tho visit of New Zealand footballot's to Australia hns been ftiV.inged fc!\ A tele gram from Dunedin say* ;—The New Zea land football Wafi* Ul' nineteen inon will leave Wellington for Sydney on tho 22nd May, returning by the steamer of tho 17th Juno. This will allow threo wookfl in Sydnoy, during which time it ia proposed to play six matches—two ngiiimt Now South Wales, one against Queensland (if a team of that cnbny can bo induced to visit Sydney)) ar.ii three matches Against district teams. Seven leading Otago players have consented to go if chosen, and a most hearty welcome is offered to Now ZcalandcrS by the New South Welshmen-.

Tho courses of lectures for tho present term in University Collcgo will eommenco on Wcdnosday next. In an advertisement which appears in another column will bo found a variety of items important and in teresting to students and to tho public in general. Wo observe that all persons what ever, and not merely tho formal students, are admissiblo to tho lectures, and that tho first lecture of each course, tiio times and places of which are notified, ia open froo to tho public.

Tho Public Analyst's last monthly report of tho city water supply states, after giving tho detail particulars of analysis— "This water is of cxcollont purity for drinking purposes."

A buggy, in which woro seated Mr John Grey and his wifo, with a friend, was cap sized in Short*streot yoHtordny morning, tho occupants being thrown violently into tho road. Mr Grey received a sovoro cut across tho abdomen, bosidos sustaining a severe shaking, and Mrs Grey had both wrists badly sprained, tho other lady escaping with a few contusions. Tho in juries wero attended to by Dr. Haines.

A rowing raco botweon crows from tho Naval Brlgado and tho Japaneso corvette Tsubuka was arranged to tako place this afternoon, but had not oventuatcd up to tho time at which wo wont to press. Tlio pro posal Was to havo two heats, tho first to lio rowed by each crow in their own boats, while in the socond heat tho boats wero to bo exchanged.

A special mooting of tho Druid Lodgo will bo hold on Monday ovoning, whon Bro. Bishop will givo an account of the proceed ings of tho Grand Lodgo meeting in Mol bourne.

Tho forry steamer Tainui, chartered by sovornl Dovonport residents, proceeded out side Rangitoto yesterday, and thoso on board caught a great number of fish. Off tho raof tho steamor picked up two or threo canoists who had loft tho harbour during fine weather early in tho morning, and wero placed in a rather unenviablo position when the wind freshened later on.

Mr Pooloy has received the appointment of organist and choirmaster at St. Luke's Presbyterian Church, Rcmuora, and com mences his duties on the first Sunday in May.

The death is announced of Mrs Rattruy, wifo of Captain Rattray, of Dovonport. Tho deceased lady had attained a ri]>o old ago, being in her 81st yoar, but her end was nono tho loss sudden mid uno-xpocted. Sho had boon on a visit to Auckland on Thursday, and returned by tho kite steamor. Shortly after reaching hor homo sho was attaekod by a [wralytic stroko, and though medical aid was at onco obtained, it proved unavailing and sho succumbed last night to tho shock. Captain Rfittray and his wifo havo long bcon residents of this neighbourhood, having como to Auckland 34 years ago, and during that timo they have boon much respected by nil classon of socioty. Several years ago tho worthy couple colobrated their "golden wedding," the 50th anniversary of their marriage, a priviloge which comparatively very few peoplo enjoy.

An unmarried woman named Catherine MoFarlano, a resident of Nolson-strcet, at tempted suicido yestorday foronoon by throwing hersolf from tho Railway Wharf. A life-buoy was cast towards her by Mr Pollock, and sho insonsibly grasped it and was drawn towards tho wharf. Sho en deavoured, howover, to carry out hor inten tion of self-destruction, but was unablo to do so, and was hauled up to safoty. From her language and manner it was evidont that sho was suffering from delirium tromens, and Constable Mackay, of tho water police, placed hor in tho lock-up on a chargo of drunkon-ness. Sho was brought before the Police Court this morning, and remandod for soven days for medical examination. Tho young woman arrived in Auckland by tho Guy Mannoring about eighteen months ago. Sho bears a respect able character, and appears much dis tressed.

The Kennedy Family arrived from Tau ranga by tno Wellington this morning. They open at tho Choral Hall on Monday evening.

Tho installation of officers of Remuera Lodgo, 1710, E.C., took placo on Wednes day evening last, in presenco of a largo number of visiting -brethren and membors of tho lodge. Bro.C. La Rocho,tho retiring P.M., presided, and acted as Installing Master. Tho W.M. Elect was presented by Bros. Macdonald and Howson, and after being installed he invosted his officers aa under :—Brothers T. T. Gam bio, S.W. ; B. J. Esam, J.W. ; P. M. Cooper, Treasurer; ft. F. Giblin, Secretary ; A. V. Macdonald, Director of Ceremonies; C. Hosketh, Organist; D. Fallon, S.D. ; Darcy Irvine, J.D. ;T. Kempt, 1.G.; W. Mikkelson, tylor; and Brothers Hickson and Porter, stewards. Whon tho business was closed the lodge adjourned from labour to refreshment, and tho members sat down to supper in the hall upstairs. Various toasts wero proposed, and tho ovening was devoted to harmony and fraternal inter changes.

On Thursday evening last, a gang of Ponsonby larrikins, or rather incorrigibles, distinguished themselves in defiant mis chief of an insufferable character. Along the Ponsonby Road, from St. Stephen's Church to within a short distance of the Karangahape reservoir, they amused them selves in breaking down fences, injuring the newly-constructed concrete chan nelling in one or two places, and smashirg the windows in sevoial houses, including thoso in the front of some cottages that are in course of being removed nearly opposite Crombie-street. On the same evening the hoodlums greatly annoyed those attending tho sale of fancy articles at the Ponsouby Baptist Church, by shouting, roaring, and making use of vilo language. As larrikinism is now be coming such an intolerable nuisance in Ponsonby as to demand greater polico interference than it has hithorto received, sonic of the inhabit.inlscontemplale making a formal representation totho Superintend ent of Polico on the subject, with a view to his taking efl'ectivo steps to repress the evil as far as possible.

Tho recent fatal fire at Parnell has had tho effectof rousing the denizens of that sub urban borough to their duty in regard to the extinction of conflagrations : and the newspaper discussion on the subject of tho duties ,of the City Corporation has led to provision boing made for tho protection of the Ponsonby Ward. In Parnell a fire brigade of 12 men has been formed. The members of this brigade are to havo power to elect their own officers, but the plant is to be under the charge of the Council s waterworksoth'cers, The Ponsonby body is an auxiliary fire brigade to act in conjunction with tho city brigade, under tho same rules and conditions. It consists of six men, with Mr (ieo. Smith, "an experienced fireman, as acting foreman. The station in supplied with a hose reel and fire-escape ladder, to gether with hose and other necessary appliances. One of the men is to sleep at the station, which will be connected by telephone with the central fire brigade station, ao that an alarm can be at onco given and the locality of a fire known with cci tainty.

The first consignment of sugar for tho Colonial Sugar Company left Java for this port on March 31st last. The shipment comprizes 1,520 tons of raw sugar, and comes in the barque Manhegan, which may be expected to arrive early next mJHfc.

Captain McGillivray, Who w<is appointed Harbour Pilot, subject to his passing the necessary examination, has satisfied the oJcanilners as to hisjlittowletlgo anil qualifica tions, and his appointment Kas been Ooh iSrtoed. ■■• .

It is the intention of the residents of Titakau to hold a series of athletic sports on Easter Monday. Tlio programmo Comprises twenty events, the first of Which will be started at 11.3D a.m. Visitors from Auck land will be enabled to combine n pleasant trip by rail with an enjoyable day <•. Sport, trains returning to t-oWn at i.\S p.m. and fl, 16 p. Ist.

That popular local Tbospkn) W.!' J. J. Welsh, has decided ta> diKiUm the sock and bttsltf.iv. pUd iiSL-i gone into business as a WuftOconist and fancy goods dealer in Victoria-street, near tlio Hojwcn HtJtbi. No doubt all his okl Ertftiids will roll up to his divan to fillloko his cigars, and hear agaiU choice selections from his bulky repertoire of theatrical anecdotes.

On Thursday afternoon and ovening, a sale of fancy goods (the balance of tho articles loft over from tho late ba«Aftr) took place in the t'onsonby Baptist Church. Tho sale continued from two in the aftcr noo*l 'ill nllie at night, and the cash pro ceeds totalled £15. Thero is still a quan tity of goods on hand, and anothor salo will tako place on tho first opportunity.

Tho authorities of St.. Thomas's Church, in Union-street, liuvo purchased a new pipe organ, In the construction Qf which Mr mllmott, of.Prospect-street, P6nsonby,.has been engaged for tlio last two years. The instrument stands fourteen foot highs Is said to bo an excellent piece b'f Workman ship, and is certainly a ercclita'blo Hpcciniidn of local industry. It will be finished in t-hreo tt'eeks, arid the purchasers are anxious that it should be fitted up by Whitsuntide.

MY Horace Doan will givo his grand Easter promenade concert andball in Lorno utrcct Hall on Monday evening next, when a series of new songs and specialities will bo introduced between tho dances. Tho popu lar Montague, from London, will appear with a budget of approved molodies. Other vocalists will also render musical assistance. Mr Dean has projected a succession of Saturday evening promenade conoorts in-the same hall for tho peoplo, the opening concert to bo given on the 19th inst.

Superintendent Thomson, ,f. P., disposed of the cases at the I'olico Court to-day. Mary Richards and Patrick Moran, 10s each for drunkenness. Catherine Macfarlano, a young woman, and now arrival, chargod with attempting suicido hy throwing her self from tho wharf into the water yester day morning, was remanded for sovon days for medical treatment. Joseph and Harriot Riloy, larceny of a purso containing 15s, tho proporty of I'otor Lorenzo, re manded until the 16th inst.

Tho anniversary .services of tho Pitt street Wesloyau Sunday-School will bo hold to-morroW. Preachors, Roys A. Roid and R. Bavin. Tho soirco will bo hold in tho lower school-room on Tuesday evening,

Tho bonelit concert which Mr Albin Villoval is engaged in organising for tho relief of an aged and destitute Frenchwoman named Madame Duqscsiiu 'is announced elsewhere to tako placo in tlio Theatre Royal on I ho 23nl inst., and promison to bo a pronounced success, both artistically and financially. Mr Villoval has invoked and secured tlio assistance of nearly all tho loading professional and amateur musiciuns of tho place, so that the success of tho affair is very effectively guaranteed.

Easter sorvicos will bo hold tomorrow at tho several Anglican Churches of Auckland. At St. Mary's, I'arnoll, His Lordship Bishop Cowio will preach ; at St. Matthew's, even ing, Roy. W. Tobbs, M.A., " Individu ality and tho Vision of tho Magdalene." St. Paul's, special sermons by the Roy. C. M. Nelson, M.A., and at evoning festival servico tho Roy. W. 11. Ji. Jervois, M.A. Eastor sermons will also bo preached at the churches of tlio Holy Sopulchro and St. Thomas.

The Naturalists, Field Club havo char tered tho steamer Tainui for Monday, when tlioy proceed to Waihcko, and tho Victoria has boon engaged by tlio Roy. Mr Potter for tho purpose of conveying a party to tho Lake.

Several excursions by water havo been arranged for Monday, as follows: — The Waitaki leaves for Waiwera at 10 a.m. ; Tongariru, for Motulapu and St. Holior's Bay, !) a.m. : Tainui, with tho Auckland Naturalists, Club, for Waihoko, at 9 a.m.

Yesterday (Good Friday) an interesting game of cricket took plnco on the Domain Cricket Ground botweon tho employes of tho Devonshire Dairy and the London Dairy. Tho Devonshire Dairy camo off' victorious by 8 wickets and 08 runs.

Tho matron of tho Old Mon'a Refuge acknowledges with thanks tho book kindly sent by Mr Muckay.

Tho waltf.ing competition botweon G, Wybar (late of Christchurch) and F. Camp bell, Auckland, has boon arranged to take place on tho evening of Thursday, April 17.

Ati enjoyablo day was spout yesterday by members and friends in connection with tho Mount Eden Baptist Church. Soven 'bus loads, numbering in all ovor 100 j>orsons, loft for Papatoitoi at about 9 o'clock in tho morning, and proccoded merrily to their destination by way of Mangere. There they amused themselves in various wayp, after which tho party returned to town by way of Otahuhu.

To tho Editor : Sir,—Whilst out pleasur ing at Cheltenham Beach, North Shore, on Good Friday, I was somowhat startled to hear some boys who woro wading in tho water cry out "Oh ! hero's a snako." Run ning at onco to their assistance, I found that it was a very young octopus, tho arms of which woro about 18 inches long. I borrowed a spear from a boy, and probed it through tho head. I had great difficulty in securing it, as it clung so fast to tho rocks. It was put in several different pools of water, and it changed its colour overy timo to'its surroundings.—l am, &c, S. F.

At tho last ordinary sitting of tho Council, whon an application from Mr C. J. Hutchin son for permission to retain crossing rails on tho footpath in Custom-street East was under consideration, It was resolved that notice should bogiven to all persons who hare crossings which do not ontor into promises, but merely allow tho vehicles or horses to stand on tho crossing, to tho great incon venience and annoyance of pedestrians, to havo tho same removed. In all probability an advertisement will shortly appear notifying this resolution to tho public.

Sergeant Clarke, of tho water polico, brought to town to-day Honi Rata, a native committed by tho Mongonui Bench for forgery and uttering, and another nativo sentenced to imprisonment by the Kawa kawa Bench for breaking and entering a church of that place.

Among those on the platform at tho even ing meeting in the Salvation Army Barracks yesterday wero Rev. A. M. Maccallum, North Shore, and Rev.D. Whytock.

Yesterday, an excursion under the aus pices of tho Railway Band took place to Kawau, about 300 persons proceeding by steamer to that beautiful island. Arrived, tho party wore received by Sir George Grey and hospitably entertained to tea, besides being allowed the liborty of the house, garden, and grounds. On the excursionists leaving, Sir Goorge Grey and family went down to the wharf to see them off. Tho band played "For Ho's a Jolly Good Fellow," the crowd of pleasure-seekers lustily cheered tho generous knight and his housohold, and as tho steamer moved off tho band struck up " Auld Lang Syno." Both in going and returning, tho band, undor their able leader, Mr John Konayne, played a selection of music, and dancing was engaged in by the younger passengers.

A fairly successful concert of sicred music was given by Mr Pooley in the Opera House last evening as an appropriate onding of the Good Friday celebration. 'Die impressive numbers of the "Messiah" commemorating the passion and death of tho Saviour formed the first part of tho programme, and tho second consisted of miscellaneous selections from the works of Gounod, Handel, ana Men delssohn. Tho concerted pieces were sup ported by a choir numbering about 40 vocal ists, conducted by Mr Pooley. Thoir most effective interpretations wero tho choruses, " Surely He Hath Borne Our Griefs " and "Even so in Christ," with the majestic " Hallelujah Chorus." Madarao Pooley was heard to considerable advantage in the plaintive arias, " He Shall Feed His Flock " and " Ho Was Despised," but scarcely in fused tho amount of pathos of whioh tho latler composition is sivcoptiblc The moHfc enjoyable items of the evening wero the spirited bass solos by Mr Knox, " The Trumpet shall Sound" (Messiah) and "Arm, Arin.yo Brave" (Judas Maccabreus), for which this gentleman's capital voice was particularly suited. Mr Burnham's only contribution was the aria, "If with all your Hearts" (Elijah), which was duly appreciated. The accompani ments wero played by Messrs Pooley (piano) and Angolo Forrost (harmonium). Tho latter gentleman had a magnificent instru ment, and used it with telling effect, especi ally in the overture to Samson, at the com mencement of the second part, which was an examplo of finished performance.

A fishing phrty left tho Qtteoti'streot Wlmrf yeeterdfty in One Of the fafry steamers for tho waters adjacent to ttaiigitot-o Reef. Sottie huhdrods of Bt!hnappor Were secured, ttnd on arrival at the Auckland wharf tho fish Werri given aWay indiscriminately to all and sundry* several boys receiving as many fts a do^en Cacti,

The ferry Bteathcr Victoria U to lriako an excursion trip to Lake Takapuntt on Mon day Tickets ato '}.*, Including tea, and tho profits aro to go towards enlarging, the Primitive Methodist School tt Upp&r Pitq streets

Tho time for receiving tenders fdr the Poneonby tramway station km bebll GS tenrlcd .till WMhesHay noxt. Tenders Should bo loi't at the oflico of Mr F. A. White.

Mr R. Little, bandmaster of tho Salvation Army Band, has boon presented by the members of that band with a very hqn'daohto batdn Us a mark of their esteem. Mr.Little was formoLy in th'o Artillery Band and latterly in tno Railway Band, so that his niijsical training has been snch as to fit him th'o.'oughly for his present post.

We understand that Mr Hunter, formerly conductor of the Thames Scottish. Co. 'a Band'i artd at present conductor of the Wanganui.Garrison Band,,intends shortly J.o take up his residence in Auckldr "for tho bonofit of his health. The V. a'nganui papers take leave of him with expressions of great regret, remarking that his depar ture will bo a great loss to tho cause ,p£ music In their city, and particularly^ to tho liaVid, which lie has rendered so efficiont.

Tho hurdy-gurdy man is on the rampage', and is filling up tho gap in open-air enter tainment caused by the retirement of the Artillery Baud. This afternoon the Star office camo in for a share of his powors, and a choice selection of alrß, varying from "Mollie Darling" toScliulhollTs'"Carnival do Venice," were ground out for our special dolccfiatlon.

A very instructive and interesting lecture Was delivered by Mr John Blackmail on Thursday night in tho Congregational School • room, Edinburgh • street. Thb Rubjoctwrs " Milton—a Study for Young Moii." Mr J. Ellyott occupied tho chair, nhd briefly introduced tho lecturer to a rather small audienco. Tho lecturo was well condensed, and brought out tho most important facts of Milton's life, character and writings, together with various dotails and an exposition of tile meaning of "Paradiso Lost." The audience was thoroughly arjpreciativo, and at the close a desiro that Mr Blackmail would ro'-delivor tho lecture on the Ist of May noxt, in order that tho choir might tako part, and that young mon who had not heard it might do so. This tho lecturer consented to do, and many will no doubt avail themsolves of tho opportunity of listening to hjs excellent treatise

Everything is now In train for the open ing of tho "Youth" dramatio season in Abbot's Opera Houso on Monday noxt. Tho completeness of the preparations is such as to ensuro a successful spactocular production on tho oponing night,, while tho company, from long praotico, are thoroughly an fait in their parts. A telegram has betin recoived of tho arrival of tho Company at New Ply month on their way hithor from Nolson, so that thoy will arrivo in good timo for tho opening. Wo aro requested to state that tho box-plan will bo open at the OporaHouso on Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m , to afford tho public a final opportunity of booking scats,

Tho Roy. R. Laiahloy, who has recontly returned from a trip to Kuropo. Will preach in Hereford -struct Church tomorrow morning. Tho pastor, Uev. J. RoborUon, M.A., will prondi In tho uvenlng.

Tho Arch Hill Band of Hope announce tholr half-yearly entertainment to take placo In Newton West School on Kaster Tacidoy. Mr K. Ciirr, lato of Northern Walroa, will address the mooting. For fuller particulars bco ad vertisement.

Mr 11. Cramor's classes for lwys aro held on Friday ovonlnßS as well us Mondays and Wednesdays.

The principal families and firms in Auck land use Cluimbors'BSowing Mnoh.lne.lßeo pan« 3.-lADVT.]

ASSESSMENT OF CITY PROPERTY.

Thk following tablo shows the valuations of city proporty for rating purposes in 1883 ---8-1 and 18S4-85 after revision by the Assess ment Court : — 188. H. ISSI-5. Graf ton Ward .. .. £12,691 £13,557 KastWnrd 86,210 !>3,531 NorthWard .. .. G7,133 72,485 Southward .. .. J8.14U 51.300 KaranKalinpo Ward .. 19,331 21,186 Ponsonby Wurcl.. .. 31,757 38,922 Totals .. .. £265,583 «290J00 It will thus bo scon that the not increaso for tho present year amounts to £22,207.

MINING NEWS.

[BY TELKURAPII,—OWN COKREvSI'ONDEST.]

Te Auoua, this day, Nhw Find.—The bliow of gold in tho winzo in tho No. 2 level is hotter than I have scon it at any time. Tho quartz coming to hand shows gold freely, and should crash well. Tho reof in tho bottom is now four feet wide, and the class of stone and character of country are still most favour ablo, giving every premise of a con tinuanco of the gold downwards. Tho show in the other parta of tho mine is as good as over. Waiobongomai. — Tho reof has been stripped and a portion broken down to a depth of five feet from the outcrop. It has increased in size, and is now from 18 inches to two feet thick. It is a fine compact lode, with well defined walls, and has every appearance of permanency. All the stone shows gold freely.

FIRE AT PONSONBY.

Anotheii fire occurred soon after one o'clock tills morning, and resulted In the destruc tion of a bnkoboußc, stables, and store room in Ponsonby Road, belonging toGooree William Whitcombe, baker, and also a wash houso, tho property of liruco Lloyd. Tho flre, which is supposed to havo originated in the bake house, was first discovered by George Wenning ton, nightman, who aroused Mr Whitoombo, and then with admirable forethought removed tho horses from tlio stable at tho rear. Nothing could bo dono to pavo the property in quostion, but tho efforts of the Ponsonby cont-iiiKotit of tho Firo IJrlgndo prorented tho flro extending to the adjacent premises. The Auckland Firo Brigade was oarly on tho scone, but Its sorviooß yero not called Into requisition. Constables Collis and Mitchell wero early on the sceno, whilo oUior members of the foroo arrived at a later period. Mr Whltcombo inspected his bakehoune at 11.30 before rotlring for the night, and no Bign of fire was obßeivablc at that timo. Ho was insured in the Royal Office for £190, of which £100 was on tho machinery, M0 on the articles used in baking operations, &n., and £50 on tlio stock. Tho buildings wero owned by Mr John Closo, of Mount St. Mary. Mr Lloyd'B wiishhoUßO was not insured.

SCINTILLATIONS.

" Public " Buildings—Taverns. AVater Spouts—Temperance orations, Ponsouby Regatta en Monday. Two circuses coming. Juveniles jubi lant.

Who is the " lady" that Alexander is to carry to-night? Great variety of amusoments promised for Eastor Monday evening. Mr Bryco is suing J. W. Rusden for libelling him in his "History." Mr Isaac Wilson has resigned his scat for Kaiapoi North. A clergyman in England uses ginger ale at tho Lord's Supper. Volunteer encampments are now being held at Oamaru, Wellington, and Lake Forsyth, Canterbury. The "Youth" Company left Nelson for Auckland yesterday. In the libel case against the " Brisbane Courier," the jury yesterday brought in a verdict of "Not Guilty."

Thore will be no practice of the Choral Society on Tuesday, on account of the Ken nedy Family occupying the hall. Kov. W. H. H. Jervoia (son of His Ex cellency) preaches in St. Sepulchre's Church to-morrow evening. Arrangements are being made to work good coal seams discovered on the Hunua

ranges. The School Commissioners for the various provincial districts are gazetted. A youth named Onyon, aged 15, was drowned in the river at To Arolia yester day. Waimea Plains Railway Company, Otago, have resolved to levy a rate of 3s 4d per £ on the district served by the railway.

Query, Three-Legged Stool ?—Wiggins writes to a friend that his honeymoon is over, and that it's the comb now. The Heddon Bush and Hillend estate, Southland, containing 23,000 acres free hold land, were sold on Thursday for £45,500. George Willis & Co., Adelaide, were the parchasers. The Drapery and General Importing Company of New Zealand, with a capital of £124,000, has been floated atDunedin,.

THE WAR IN THE SOUDAN.

m CABLtt.-COPYIIIGIIT.I

[HBC*EH'B TISLKCIRAMH.]

G3ndrai dbi'dori'a Succosfcba. CAtuo, April 9. bjsa&irtUUJss to hand from General Gordon, dated 30th March, state that the rebels in tho tteighboih-hortd of Khartoum number tttidßl1 two thousand. JJesiiltory lighting hus taken place between them and the Egyp tian troops forming tho garrison at Khar tomtt. aAbelat.t«v>vve h«en vtetorio'Jo ih all Oiicounters. Many of the rebels have been killed. General Gordon further re ports that two hundred Bashi - BazoukSj Egyptian irregulars, having proved muthj oup, were at onco dispensed with without disturbance, , UAiuo, April 10. IsTKLi.iaKNck lias been received hero that Admiral Sir William Hbwett, commanding tho Indian Squadron, who proceeded ft short. time back on a special mission toAbyssiiiia, has now left M'o&ovali oil board the Flag- Ship Eui-yalus, arid is returning to Soudkiui. Ttto Sicgo of KassiUii. Futther news to hand from Kassala, a town in the Soudan, near.the Abyssinian frontier, confirms,, the, previous ,intelli gence of the critical position of the bpleag ue'r'ed garrison. Tho Governor,lias made a fresh appeal to- the British authorities at Souakim for aid. |to annpuncps that the Bashlßazoukß forming part of his force are deserting him, and fears lie may not be able to hold out much longer, unloss assist" dnco is sent.

(Received—l2th April, 11.45 a.m;)

Bhently Besieged by RBbela.

LonijOk, April lllh.—News froih tlio Boudan states .that the town of Shcndy has boon besieged by the rebois;

ADDRESS BY MR MONT GOMERY.

(BY TKLEtIItAVH.—I'RESS ASSOCIATION.)

Akaroa, Thursday. Mr Montoomkky addressed tho coristitu oncy of Akaroa to-night, the Mayor in the chair. Mr Montgomery said': I do not in tond to tako up your timo tonight by going ' into details of tho measures brought before Parliament last session. Ministers had their own way, and are entitled to all tho credit they can justly claim, and are also entirely responsible for the financial diffi culty. What is the state of affairs com morcial and otherwise,' in tho most import ant provinces b'f the colony—in Otago and Canterbury? We know that in Christ church, Timaru, Oamaru, Dunedih, and other towns, not one trader out of ton is doing mor'o than paying his way. The main causes of the depression in the Middle Island-, and of the present financial difficulty, are these t—{l) The immense annual drain for payment of in terest on the public debt; (2nd) the ox cessive departmental expenditure of the ("ovornmont; (3) tho large tracts of free hold land lying in a state of nature, which tho owners will neither cultivate nor sell at a price to pay farmers; and (4th) the rents drawn by absentee proprietors. While the colony continues to borrow, the Ministry will keep their supporters by granting money to certain districts. Our safety can only bo assured by ceasing to borrow. The enormous departmental expendi ture is pressing heavily on tho resources— not tho amount of pay to each individual in tho Civil Servico, ior if tho country is to bo well served tho pay must bo fair. Tho Civil Servants should bo placed on a footing similar to those employed in tho office of a prosperous merchant, or in tho working staff of a manufacturer — fair pay and sufficiont work. Thirdly, there are immense tractfl of good agricultural lands lying in a state of nature, held by individuals and companies, which tho owners eithor will not sell, or not sell at the price people could afford to pay and profit ably occupy ; and what is tho consequenco ? Tho people are forced to cultivate (second and third-claes land, and the producing capacity of the colony is thereby limited. Tho peoplo are not able to develop the resources which nature haa placed within their reach. Wo must havo a tax on holders with largo tracts of agricultural land, which will mako them either cultivato or sell. A large amount of rent is drawn ovory year from this colony by absentee proprietors. Some of tho owners are high in the roll of English nobility. Thoy have estates out hero, and their agonts collect the rents, which are spent in England. Of all tho curses with which a country can bo permanently afflicted nothing can bo worso than absentee proprietors. We require a heavy tax on them. Now Zealand should be for New Zealandors. Tho colony, in my opinion, never can be governed with satisfsstion to tho people while everything is centralised in Wellington. The people in this island will no longer allow its in terests to be ignored to suit the caprices of Ministers living in a political centre, with strong contracted Wellington and Tara naki prejudices. People are now asking each othor, Why should tho railways in the Middle Island pay threo or four per cent, when the Wellington and Taronaki railways do not pay one per cent.? I look on the establishment of non-political Boards of Management for the railways as a rery important step in the direction of decontralism. Perhaps thero never was any question ro full of danger as that of federation. With respect to annexation of the islands in tho Pacific, it is a dream or delusion, and if porsisted in would assuredly bo a snare. Those islands are full of fierce, savage racos, the climate is so tropical and unhealthy that white men could not do field work there. The land is mostly covered with bush, and is in possession of natives who would not give it up. Wo would re t quiro a force to be kept there at great ex pense to tho colony, and this force would bo only for the protection of a few traders, land sharks, and others who would civilise the natives by rifles and rum. But oron were we determined to disregerdionr expense and go in for annexation, this colony could not annex any of these islands. On the subject of federation the speaker went on to ex press views identical with those of Sir George Grey. He next criticised the Promior'a speech at great length. Ho said : —Tho Treasurer feels the end of his reign "ie drawing near. Ho challenges me to table a motion condemning the riso in tho railway tariff. Ho thinks he can depend on the votes of thoso mombore whose districts grow no grain. Many of the Canterbury members gave him a generous confidence—they placed and sus tained him in power. Now ho thinks ho can do without them, and ho kicks away the ladder by which ho rose. He knows that their eyes are opened, that they recognise him as a hollow financial failuro, tho same failure that ho was in 1877, when Mr Staf ford eharacterieed his finance as a delusion and a snare. But he must not labour under tho delusion that this agitation, caused by tho unjust riso in the grain freight, will tbe settled in such a simple manner as ho proposes. Does he think that the pooplo of Canterbury and Otago will allow matters to rest ? Does he think these two provinces will allow the continual drain on their resources for tho benefit of his favoured districts ? He will find, or lam much mis taken, that Auckland and Hawke's Bay -will not consent to be taxed to support railways like that of Taranaki and New Plymouth, the returns of which, just published, show they did not even pay working expenses last year. In conclusion ho said :— The Opposition was anxious to havo an early meeting of Parliament, to get an op portunity to unseat the Government, for the session to bo held early that an appeal might bo mado to the olectors, that tho voice of the country might bo effectively heard, feeling assured that who ever may succeed the Ministry now occupying the Treasury benches, tho present men must go. A Ministry which has used the means to retain place which this Ministry has resorted to, which would never retrench, but on the contrary resisted all endeavours of others to reduce expenses, a Ministry which has got the colony into a financial meas and dare not call the members together at the closo of the financial year—the days of that Ministry are numbered, and they know it, and the sooner they go the better for the country.

GREAT WORLD CIRCUS TO NIGHT.

The above Circus, which has just arrived from the South opens to night for a short season on, tho Markot Square. According to the advertisement which appears else where, it has a large stud of trained horses, and an effective troupe of male and female performers, as well as a brass band. The programme will be changed at short intervals, and the management confidently anticipate a prosperous season in Auckland.

THE A.R.C AUTUMN MEETING.

Anticipations of Monday's Racing.

[BY Bu'ftW*.]

f llis Autumn Meeting of tho Auckland Racing Club commoricce on Monday next, fl'id tho gathering bids fair to bo a groat aiicccsß if the weather is favourable. Thore al-o six events to bo decided, and as all of thorn bavo filled up well and the competitors in each arc much of a class, it will be Strange indeed if there is not some excollcnt sport. Tho first race, will be started at one o'clock, and my anticipations of the results are as follows :— TiUDESMAN'ti Hanpical', 1 niilo and 210 yards, at. lb. St. lb. Mn.Cn . • >'. 8 7 Pcrfuncn;!. ~ 7 7 Wapiti H 11 Witiora i. . • 1 • V\'oo.l pecker .. 3 5 Katlpo .. .. 0 7 Administrator .. 8 I Flageolet.. ;. C 0 Consul .. ...8 0 Tainouri .. ..9 0 Itnld .... 3 0 If Consul was hihisclf, 1 should award him hiy support without aiiy hesitation, but as lie is not, I shall expect to see WiMOBA fAii-n but the winner, with Woodpecker as his nearest attendant. Makes' Puoduce Stakes, 6 furlbnjfsj . •.-.. . . . ••,.■: . ~ Btib. Iv)-upp',.l)y itugkcW-Maid.of Athol.. .. 810 Carbineer, by Musket -Una 8 iv Revolver, by Muskot—Erycina 8 10 Totford, by Musket—Pungawcreworo .. 8 10 Ncoklaoc by Musket-Locket .. ..8 8 SatanclUt, by Hippocampus-Slander ..8 8 There is little need, I think, to discuss tho chances of the six engaged in the race, for if Knurl' has a horseman on his back that can keep him together, he should win. The next boßt I take to be Necklace, who will have the services of Sutherland, and I'm Siiro there will be no more popular victory than that of Mr Marshall's filly should she succeed in landing the prize, lluumi; lUce, 2} miles. st.lb. ■ . stlb. Wooilpccktr ..1110 Chandler.. ..10 10 Minuet .. .. U P Fairblay .. .. 810 liillv-KO-by-'em .. 10 10 Shotover .. .. !) 7 Now \ ear .. 10 10 Pearl ;. ..9 0 On paper tins event -reads like a certainty for Chandler, but nevertheless 1 am not a great admirer of him over hurdles, and shall name MiNUKt to get home in advance of tho field. EASTER HANDICAP..2 miles. Horse. | Weight. Eider. , " I si. lb. Leonora, iyrs .. .. 810 W. Kdwards. Fitzherailcs, oyrs .. 7 12 — McClusky. Yuba Hill, aged .. 7 10 - Maori, aged .. ..7 8 T.Taylor. Libeller, aged .. ..7 8 - Fisliwomun, lyrs ..77 — Nonnanuy, Gyrs ..7 7 G. Williams. Administrator, lyrs .. 7 5 A. Sutherland Nelson, Syrs .. ;; 7 i K.Vaile. Radamos, lyre.. ..GO J. Hiekey. This is the big race of the day, and the final sweep of 8 boys. at the post is almost certain to see one or perhaps two of the number drop out. It would be useless to go through the cliances tsf each candidate, but I may mention that ever since the weights appeared Leonora has found a deal of favour in'my eyes, and from what I have seen on the training ground, I don't think there is anything engaged that ban beat her. Nelson I take to ha the most dangerous opponent of the daughter of Leolinus, and Administrator maybe depended upon to run well forward, while the light impost that Radames has may enable him to run into a place. If we are to have a surprise, I think it will como fr6m that thorough roguo Maori, and to make a selection from the ten engaged, my hat goes up for Leonora. Selling Race, 1J mile. st.lb. et.lb. Maori . .. !) 2 Paramena .. 7 6 Kintf Quail .. 8 !) Sham .. ..7 6 Flageolet .. .. 7 13 Okato .. ..7 1 Itadames.. .. 7 G Mitrailleuse ..7 4 Slider .. ..7 0 Merlin .. .. Gl3 Out of the ten entered, I don't think that I can do bettor than givo my vote to Paramkna. Publicans' Purse, 1J mile. Bt. lb. Bt. lb. Leonora .. .. 8 13 Larrikin .. .. 7 10 Consul .. ..8 0 Krupp .. .. Gll Wapiti .. ..GO Necklace .. .. Gil Mitrailleuse .. « I This race is in a great measuro dopond ent upon the results of the Aor events, but I think if Lkonciua is saddled up sho will about win, after whom I liko Wapiti. The quotations for tho Easter Handicap to-day are as follows ! — 0 to I againat Loonora 2to 1 — Nelson 110 1 — Administrator nto 1 — Nonnanby ' Gto 1 — Itudames Bto 1 — Yuba Bill, Libeller, Maori, and Fitzherculeß. There wan a lot of interesting work done at Ellerslie this morning. Tho best gallops were those of Loonora.Maori, Administrator, and Radames, the latter shaping particu larly well. Libeller, with King Quail as a companion for tho last mile, was sent about the Easter Handicap distance, and shaped better than he has since his arrival. The following horses arrived safely at the Manukau from Taranaki this morning: Normanby, Witiora, Flying Scud, Slider, | and Billy-^o-by-ein. The racing stock offered at Buckland's ■ to-day was not sold. Nominations for all handicaps at the Cambridge Autumn Meeting must be for warded cither to Mr Percival or Mr Scott, secretary of tho Club, not later than Thurs day, tho 17th inst. Acceptances and general entries are due on 28th April.

THE C.J C. AUTUMN MEETING.

Christciiurch, this day

Vanguard came with a rush for the Greo.t Autumn Handicap on Thursday night, and was backed for all the money obtainable at 100 to IS. The following is tho present state of the market: —loo to 20 against Vanguard ; 100 to 15 against Salvage ; 100 to 14 against Tasman and Lady Emma; 100 to 13 against Sou-wester ; 100 to 12 against Mischief; 100 to 10 against Non sense, Ike, Tho Poet, and Turquoiso ; 100 8 to 3 against the others. The hnal acceptors for the Champagne Stakes aro Trenton, Liverpool, Eskato, Forerunner, Dime, and Lady Evoiyn.

(Continued in Supplement.)

ALARMING EARTHQUAKES.

[BY TELEORAriI— PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Blesueim, this day.—A severe shock of oarthqunke occured hero at C.50 last night. It lasted seven seconds, and the direction was from north to south. No damage is re ported, but the audience in the Wesleyan Church, who were awaiting the service of song, were ereatly alarmed by the shock, and several ladies rushed to the door.

Nelson, this day.—A very soverc shock of earthquake, which lasted fully ten seconds, was experienced here at ten minutes to 7 o'clock, the direction being from north to south. It commenced with a violent shake. No damage wafs occa sioned excepting some glasswaro broken in private dwellings.

WKLLiXGTOS.Friday.—Thosharpest shock of earthquake felt hero for years occured at ten minutes to seven tonight. It set all the firebells ringing, and was preceded several seconds by a loud rumbling noise with slight vibration.

This day. The barometer at the Museum records tho following in regard to the earthquake : —Sharp jerk frotnN.N.S., with two circu lar movements outwards, and displacement to tho south, at 0.49 p.m. Duration. 0 seconds. After 5 seconds' interval, there was a long E. and W. undulation, lasting 15 seconds, with slight final displacement" to wards E.

ITAvmu, this day. A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at 6.D0 last evening. The direction was N.E. to S.W., preceded by a loud rumbling noise. Tho duration is estimated at from 20 to 30 seconds. It commenced with a prolonged slight shaking, then heavy shocks, and finished with a slight shaking. No damage resulted. CimiSTCHURGH, Friday.—A smart shock of earthquake took place at ten minutes to 7 p.m. to-day.

Mastekton, this day.—A smart shock of earthquake Mas felt here at ten minutes to seven last evening, accompanied by noise. • Lvall, this day.—A smart shock of earth quake was felt at 6.50 last evening, lasting 10 seconds. Direction, S.E. to N.W.

FIELDiNO, this day.—A sharp .shock of earthquake was felt at 0.53 last night. UKKYMOtrar, Friday.—A sharp shock of earthquake was felt this evening at seven o'clock. The motion seemed to be from north to south.

CABLEGRAMS.

♦— l3if CABtfc-COPYRIUHT.] (Renter's Tklkgkams, ) (Received April 12th—2 pirn.) Franco - Chinese War. — Crisis at Pekin Hong Kong, April 11.—Intelligence has been received here of a serious c.isis at Pekin. Prihg Kung, First Secretary if State, and four colleague's privy councillors havo been publicly degraded by .the Empress for their dilatoriness in connection with the Tonquin question, Insurrection in Cuba; London, April 11, Telegrams to hand from Guba announcb that a formidable rising has occurred theie under Agucrs, th'o well-known iillbuster, The r'uban authorities have asked assistance. the Spdnish. Government, havo despatched a strong forte of troopg with a, vitjw to cjuetl the rebellion which threatens to asstirile serious pr'd: portions'. . ........ bcaf.h of Charles Roadc! Obituaby,—Charles Reado, D.C.L., the well-known novelist and dramatist, aged 70 Canada and the Chinese Question. The Dominion Parliament has disaliowbil the Bill passed by the British .Columbian Legislature for the exclusion of Chinese. France and Madagascar. PaRIS, April 9. —In the Chamber of Deputies to-day M. Ferry announced that d complete rupture had occurred in th'o negotiations which had been proceeding with tho Malagasy Government, and that !t had bben therefore decided by the French Goyernitieht to ci.ten'tl tfiB■ limit bf thH territory occupied by the French troops, sq as to include tho north-western half bf Madagasbarl The Egyptian Ministerial Dispute. . Cai^o, April 10.— The difficulty whicji had arisen between Nubar Pasha, the President of the Council of Ministers, and Mr Clifford Lloyd, tho Under-Seeretary of the Home Department, has beon amicably arranged. Nubar Pasha has withdrawn his resignation, and both will remain iii office. . . ... Tho Frozen Meat inide. London, April 10.—A cargo of frozen mutton, comprising 3J524 carcases, per steamship Garonne, has been examined, and its condition is considered doubt: fill-

AUCKLAND SOCIETY OF ARTS.

Fourth Annual Exhibition,

A large number of entries for tho Art Ex hibition, which is to be held in the Choral Hall on April 24th, were received by the Secretary (Mr Josiaii Martin) on Thursday evening. The entries for brieinal designs ire tery numerous; the principal competi tors being Miss An«lie, Miss Ilorhe, MiSS Russell, Mrs J. M. Clark, Mb Burcher, Mr Jackson, Mr Orchard, Miss Baker, Miss Abbott, Miss Whitaker, Miss Fentori. Drawings have been recelred from the School of Art, the Girls' High School; Auckland Grammar School; Parnell Grammar School, and the district schools; Entries for the competition for the medal offered by Herr Schmitt for the best musical competition by a local amateur are twelve in number, and it is satisfactory to note; that musical talent is so good in Auckland. Two copies of each have been forwarded: One copy is to be forwarded to Mr Tyndali, Professor of Music of Christc'iurcli,and onß copy will be retained here. Professor Tyndali will telegraph his opinion to Mr Fenton, who acts as judge in Auck land, and the best will receive a Bilver medal. The second best receives the Society's certificate of merit, and all others of high merit will bo performed at the open ing of the Exhibition, when hts Excellency the Governor will preside. The following is the list of musical competitions received along with tho norn desplumes attached toeaoh :— " Sweet Evening Hour," Enthusiast; " The Dawn of Love," A Young Novice ; "The June Twilight" (Mies Muloch), Aurdia\ " I Would Delight" (Buchanan), Persevcr' ancc; "Farewell" (W.W.S.), Allien\ "Excolsior" in A flat (Longfellow), t^pes; Valso, Bella 11. Ilitc/iais, The Oaks, Napier ; "Souvenir Waltzes" (letter), Cecelia; "Mitiuetto Kondo" in A flat, Omcf/a; "Triumphal March," Delta; "I Know My Lovo," Violet; " Waite mata."

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.

The quarterly meeting of this body was held on Thursday afternoon, Mr Graves Aickin (President) being in the chair. These were also present:—The Mayor, and Messrs Peacock, McMillan, Morton, S. Vaile, Jakins, J. Reid, M. Clark, and Pierce.

Balloting for Membiks.—lt was decided that in the future a week should be allowed to elapse between the proposal of new members and the balloting for their election.

The Barque Gazelle.—The Committee reported that they had communicated with the Chambers of Commerce in Sydney, Mel bourne, and Adelaide with reference to the law in force in those places as to tho seizure of vessels, but they had as yet received no reply. They therefore recommended the Chamber to move in the direction of securing some amendment of the law so as to prevent the occurrence of such seizures in tuture, the attention of the Auckland members of Parliament being especially called to this matter with a view to such alteration being made in the coming session."—On the motion of Mr G. I*. Pierce, seconded by the Mayor, the recom mendation was referred back to tho Com mittee.

Tiritiri.—lt was likewise resolved, on the proposition of Mr Pierce, "That, in tho opinion of this Chamber, the attention of tho Harbour Board be called to the advisability of improving the system of signalling vessels from Tiritiri, and alse to the advantage of removing the pilot station to that island."

i West Coast Linb of Railway.—On this matter the Committee reported as follows : "The Committee being of opinion that the survey of the West Coast line was not being pushed forward as expeditiously as the central line, the Hon. the Minister of Public .Works was wired to that effect. The reply was that everything was being done tnat can bo done in the matter."— Mr S. Vaile proposed a series of resolutions— (1) Bug gesting tho desirability of a Parliamentary inquiry into the whole question of our rail way management; (2) expressing the Chamber's • opinion that the recent alteration in the tariff presses with undue severity on agricultural in terests; (3) affirming that tho im position of a rate and a quarter in Claes E in the North Island, the substitution of Scale C for goods classified under Scale D, and also the substitution of Scale N for goods under Scale P, in this district, are un fair and unjust, and likely to lead to ill-will and dissension ; and (4) directing that these resolutions should be sont to the Public Works Minister. After some discussion they were referred to tho Committee, with an order to consider tho Eeveral questions embodied in them, and report to a future meeting.

SUPREME COURT.-Civil Sessions.

Thursday (concluded).

(Bcforo His Honor Mr Justice Gillies and n Jury of Four).

Edwin Mitchelson v John BAt-cojinE.— Claim, JSIGI IG3 9d, for goods supplied.—Mr E Hesketh (instructed by E. Mahony) for tho plain tiff, and Mr Cotter for tho defendant.—ln his opening address Mr Heskcth stated that tho action was brought to recover, tho sum of £161 16s !)d. for goods sold and delivered, less a sum ot fcS'i (is for kauri gum received from iho defendant.—Tho defence sot up was (1) a denial as to tho alleged delivery of tho goods- i 2) a denial us to the delivery of the kauri gum by the defendant to the plaintiff, and (3) an assertion that the said sum was received by the defendant as agent for one K. S. Lewis.-Arthur liobert Denby. accountant in tho employ of the plaintiff, deposed that from 1882 to 1883 he was cnKuged 111 tho plaintiffs store at Aratapu, and that during the same lime the defendant was a boarding-house keeper, and also carried °n ' l , 6t°re at lied Hill. The dofondnut at that, tune dealt with the plaintiff, having separate accounts for the boarding-house an§ the store. An account was also opened, at de fendants request for one E. S. Lewis, a person who worked for defendant, and defendant was held responsible for any deficiency in it IThe witness went on to swear to the delivery of a portion of the goods in respect of which the c aim was madc.J-Edmund Studleigh Lewis also sayo evidence, after which tho Court ad journed till Wednesday next, at 10 a.m.



Special Advertisements. T\ ISE ASKS OF THE EYE. ' ARTHUR RICHARDSON, M.D., SPECIALIST AND OPKRATOR ON ■ DISEASES OF THE EYE, , MAY BE CONSULTED AT HIS REBI [ DBNCE. KARANGAHAPE ROAD. From 1 to 3 in the afternoon. After April Dr. Richardson will not attend in Town, but from 1 to i at his own Residence. ■REMOVAL OF BUSINESS. ivriLNE fo rjHOYCB Hospectf ully Announce that THEY HAVE REMOVED THEIR STOCK TO THB ARGE .NEW BUIftDINGS, WELLESLEY AND LORNE-BTREETS, Where they are now showing the Latest Novel ties In FRENCH AND ENGLISH MILLINERY, DOLMANS AND JACKETS IN RICH BROCADE VELVET, OTTOMAN AND OTHER MATERIALS, CHILDREN'S and LADIES' ULSTERS, STYLISH COSTUMES. DRESS MATERIALS IN STRIPES AND CHECKS, AND NEW PLAIN FABRICS, FURS, LACE GOODS, HOSIERY, AND GLOVES. LADIES' UNDERCLOTHING AND BABY LINEN. GREAT BARGAINS IN BLANKETS, FLANNELS, JACKETS, ( ULSTERS, &c. " 1 TT7IUJAM "D TQRIDGMAN ' William It. Joridgman Has just opened nD a Splendid Lot of New . Goods for the Winter Season, exceptionally t well bought, and will be sold at a very .." modorate advance to meet the times. I 300 Pairs New Blankets, all sizes and quali ties, from 6s 6d pair, having been bought, eon sldorablr under usual rntoH, will be Bold cheap, and cannot bo beaten. BOUGHT A JOB. . Nearly Two Hundred (£200) Pounds worth of Ladles' and Girls' Ulsters and Black Cloth Jackets, which will be SOLD AT and UNDER WAREHOUSE PRICES; some very choice' Goods in Dolmans, &c. Girls' JacYetß. from 3s 9*; Indies' Heavy Ulßters, from 6s lid 2,000 yards Flannels, all makes, from 7id yard Colonial Flannel, lUd; 32in. Heavy Welsh, la QJdi worth 2s fiO Coloured Alhambro Quilts, 2s 6d Special Valus in Grey Calicoes, 321 n., 2jd yd Cnoioo Patterns in New Cretonnes, Bid yard, worthed Strong Worsted J-head Super Fingering Yarn, 2s head Nice Assortment New Dress Goods, from 3}d Boys' Strong Tweed Trousers, 3s Od; Men's Tweed Trousers. 4s lid 30 Men's Strong Twoed Coats, 6s lid, spl'd valna New Winter Goods in all Departments Job Lines in great variety, and lot of Ronjnante, very cheap, and worthy of inspection Floorcloth," in all widths, from 27in., 9d yard. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, UPPER QUEEN-STREET. I SKMPOBABY PREMISES OPPOSITE A. CUBE |L..i'' * AND SONS'. J3L I* POSSENISKIE, I MERCHANT TAILOR AND IMPORTER, • Shortland-btreet, Auckland, Wishes to Inform His Patrons ami the Public generally that he haa ' JUST RECEIVED HIS FIRST SHIPMENTS OB" AUTUMN AND WINTER GOODS, Per 8.8. Ruafeeu. ' The above comprise all the Latest Designs In- TWEEDS ami COATINGS, and are well worthy an inspection. riHRJSTOFLE AND CIE, PARIS, V 7 Makers of Finest PLATEDWARE of all kinds, FORKS and SPOONS heavily plated on hard, white metal. CHIiIBTOFLE MAKES ONLY ONE QOALITY THE VERY BEST KNOWN. Each piece guaranteed by the name CHRISTOFLE, and tlio weight of silverthereon Stamped. Buyers wanting t;ood value are ad vised to getCHUISTOPLK'S I'LaTE. Wholesale Agency ; lIXI. Kliziibeth-street. Mel bourne. . The Pitt-street Wesleyan Sunday-school Anniversary will be celebrated to-morrow. The church is being beautifully decorated. JUtliongbMMs step is an innovation, it cannot tall to produce a pleasing effect.



Special Advertisements. ror You THE GOODS . To Note For You Manufactured by &£?{? ££$£ THE NEW ZEALAND &&£ For You CLOTHING FACTORY To Note SSyS From the Celebrated $°S°{° For You MOSGIEL TWEEDS To Note ForYoS Are Acknowledged %«** FoJySS To be the Moat To Note For You STERLING VALUE ToNoto For You And Best I°S°° fiVir You 1Q ri OtO For You WEARING GARMENTS To Note For You Ever Produced, l° n^ e a Vnr YOU AO IN OtO For You While the Range To Note For You Of Prices T°Noto Fo You , -.t .. j ToNoto For You i8 60 Varied ToNoto For You That tho Most To Note For You ECONOMICAL. ToNoto Zyou ToWllora ToNoto For You MONEY IS AN OBJECT, To Note For You Will be \° S°f° FoJySS Thoroughly Satisfied. T^Noto gg _ « &JXSS AUCKLAND BRANCH. ?°^ gg »*>« R3JSS For YOU QUBEN-STRBET. nSS B?a J.FITZSIMON3. jSgg- FnrYoS Branch Manager. &ffi For You To Noto For You To Noto For You N.8.-Pattcrnsandall ?°g°^ For You information sent Post Free. To Not« ; TO BE SHOWN 'ON. MONDAY, APRIL 7. And following days, At T. McMASTEH'S, QUEEN-STREF,T, AT T, MCMASTER'B, QUEEN-STREET, A Large Stock of NEW GOODS, JUST RECEIVED BY THE NORTHUMBERLAND, Fhom London, Comprising— NOVELTIES IN MANTLES, MILLINERY, DRESSES, AND COSTUMES. ALSO, NEW GENERAL DRAPERY, BLANKETS, FLANNELS, Etc., MEN'S CLOTHING, SHIRTB, HATS, AND SCARFS, AT T. Mo MASTER'S, Opposite tho Market. /"^REAT OF X^RAPERY AT THE EDINBURGH HOUSE EDINBURGH HOUSE (Opposito Howo-street). p /"iOUTTS Has resolved on a LARGE REDUCTION OF HIS STOCK. SALE TO COMMENCE 13th APRIL. GREAT REDUCTIONS IN PRICES. GREAT REDUCTIONS IN PRICES. GREAT REDUCTIONS IN PRICES. COME AND SEE. COME AND SEE. COME AND SEE. INSPECT THE STOCK. INBPECT THE STOCK. INSPECT THK STOCK. G. C. takes this opportunity to thank his friends and customers, and to solicit a con tinuance of tho same. J^IRS R. SOMERVILLE, WELLESLEY-STREET (OPPOSITE AHBOTT'B OI'EBA HOUSE), Has Received, per Mail Steamer, A BEAUTIFUL ASSORTMENT OF FRENCH AND ENGLISH MILLINERY.



WHERE SHALL I FURNIBB JMT HOVBE FROMt 13IE CHEAPKHT ALL ROUtfD HOUSE TO FURNISH FROM IS THE CITY HALL ARCADE GARLICK & CRANWELL 11 IRON BEDSTEADS, go to GARLICK & CRANWEIdU BKDDINU Roto GARLICK & CRANWELL, BKDROOM FURNITURE, go to GARLICK & CRANWEtL. CARPETS, go to GARLICK & UR AN WELL. GAKLICK & CKANWELI/.- Houbo Furnishers. GARLICK & CRANWELL, Upholsterers.* GARLICK & CRANWELL, Manufacturers Or ALL KINDS Or BT7BNITUKJB. Cheap Tafebtrv & Brubsel Carpets. Cheap Oilcloths & Linoleum. Oiieap & Beautiful Cretonnes, Cheap Blankets & Curtains. GARLICK & CRANWELL, HOUSE FURNISHERS Citt Hall Arcade. QDKEN-SrBEET, AUCKLAND. r<OTO THE TJON jl/TARCHE, GENERAL DRAPERY ESTABLISHMENT, FOR THE L ATEST N^^pEPA^^MENTS. JUST RECEIVED ENGLISH AND CONTINENTAL MARKETS, Splendid show of Velveteen, from Is 6d yd, Broche' Silks. Satina, Dross Fabrics, Manches ter Goods, Millinery. Ribbons, Laces. Gloves, Hosiery, Ladies' and Children's Underclothing, Ulsters, Jackets, Umbrellas, &c..ingront variety. Ladles Bhould Inspect this WELL-SELECTED STOCK before purchasing elsewhere. The REMARKABLY LOW QUOTATIONS cannot fail to be appreciated. QUEEN-STREET, 2 doors from Wollesley-st. New Ijaw Partnership* I'HB UNDERSIGNED beg to announce that they have Commenced Practice in Co-partner* ehlpaa BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS. In Chambers in Hiqh-strbet opposite Mr W. Atkln's Printing Office. E. W. BURTON. W. J. NAPIER. Auckland, September 22nd. 1883. A UCKLAND GAS COMPANY J\. (LIMITED), ESTABLISHED 1862. PURVEYORS OF LIGHT, AND POWER. The Conrpan? sell and erect gas-fittings, in cluding gas apparatus and gas-power engines. Stock includes Otto Gas Enjjine3.--Ofllce »nd Show-rooms, Fort-street. >



Something Choice, Wholesale and Retail, at Aickin'b, The Pharmacy, Queen-street.— Pear's SO per cent. Puro Glycerino Soap, Pear s Transparent Shaving Sticks and Cakes, Poar's Toilet Carbolio Soap, Pear's Rouge and Pearl Powder, Pear's Violet Powder, Pear's Pure Curd Soap, Bolgian Rose Soap, Belgian Opopa nax Soap, Colgato's Cashmere Bouquet Soup, Colgate's Jockey Club Soap, &c, &., Genuine Eau de Cologne, three sizes.



Ml- Walpole will give Prof. Godot's last lecture on the " Divinity of Jesus Chrißt,"in the Parnell Hall, to-morrow afternoon, at a quarter-past four. "



The vei-b to "nationalise" is likely to have an extended application. It is reported that at Mi1 Henry George's recent lecture in London that worthy had his watch snatched as he neared the door of the hall. Tho lecturer was thunderstruck at the liberty taken with his property, and shouted "Someone has stolen my watch." "Say, rather, nationalised it," said the voice of a' >yag in the crowd.



Contracts taken for all kinds of concrete work, large ov 3niall. and estimates and other information givingt o those wishing to do their own work.-John Wilson aud Co., 75, Queen Porambulators and carpets, reversible bicycle wheel and other kinds of perambulators just openod from £1 to £7. New designs in Brussell and tapestry carpets. Furnfch voi? r?t"v h'^"J'Bhout from Garlick and Cranwell 8 if ~ Warehouse, Queen-street