SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATKI l Tma Evening, 6.23 mun waijwc \i. o . morrow Morning, 0.38 SUNSKT.—This Kvenintr. 5.38 SUNRISK.-To-morrow Morning, 8.25 M JON'S AGE.—Full MocJh, 10th. 11.23 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

LAST EVENING. Hin'j.mnma, s.s., Tozer, from Sydney Waipu, s.s., Nicholas, from Gisborne

today. Waitaki, s.s., Crawford, from Whangarei Venus, ketch, Nii 1. fimiiOuiitiki Southern Cross, s.s., Hutcfflnaon, from wha ngarei

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVENING. Macgregor, s.s., Johnson, for Whangarei Te Anau, s.s., Carey, lor Sydney TO-DAY. Southern Cross, s.s., Bongard, for Norfolk Island Hawk. Government schooner, Jacob?, for a cruise Omapere, r.s., Allman, for Greymouth Lizzie, cuttor, Mcguerney, for Napier Fleetwing, schooner. Couch, for Mercury Bay Saucy Kate, sohooner, Lewis, for Russell Sovereign, ach, Huahi:ll, for Suwarrow Agnes Martin, ketch, Leslie, for Rusaell Adah, ketch, Colling, for Whangarei Forest Queen, ketch, Owens, for Mercury Bayfl Griffin, schooner, Bishop, for Russell Kriemhllda.schconer, Bathuret, forWhangaroa Notero, barque, Smith, for Newcastlo Ruby, schooner, Lamb, for Whangaroa Opotiki, ketch, Neill, for Tairua Handa Isle, schooner, Davis, for Sydney, via Mercury Bay Fanny Thornton, ketch, Keano, for Hokianga

IMPORTS.

' Per Ringarooma. from Sydney—93B bags and 296 gunnies sugar, 37 coses brandy, 64 half chests tea, GO coses hop bitters, 854 bogs bone dust, 100 coses whisky, 7,000 felloes, 81 cases fruit, a quantity of sheet |iron, and several packages sundries.

EXPORTS.

Per Ada C. Owen for Rarotonga—244 bags rice, 50 cases geneva, 20 cases kerosene, 21 cases beer, 40 bags sugar. 140 boxes soap, 1,995 pieces timber, 60 cases biscuits. 200 sacks potatoes, 100 empty casks, 130 kegs salt beef.

Pec Te Anau, for Sydney—lso sacks grass seed, 20 bundles shelves, 120 bundles mantelpieces, 16 boxes brackets, 40 bales flax, 21 bales tow. 145 keg) butter, 72 sacks oysters. 459 sacks maize. 69 sacks sulphur. 70 sacks oats, U coses blood I istorer, 28 cases cheese.

Inwajids Coastwise.—Coralie. from Whan garei, *ith 48 tons firewood.

Outwards Coastwise—Adah, for Whan garei ; Agnes Martin, for Rusaell.

The brigantine Clansman left Rockhampton for Auckland on the Ist inst

The schooner Welcome left Sydney for this port via Ncweastle on the 3rd inst

The ship Northumberland hauled offfrom the wharf this morning, preparatory to leaving for Napier.

Messrs Henderson and Spraggon are engaged laying down in the hold ot the s.s. Explorer a Elatform for cargo, They also will bnlld a ouse over the main hatch, and do several other small things;

The brigantine Ada C. Owen cleared at the Customs today for Rarotonga with a full general cargo.

Tho brigantine Look Out. from Kaipara, ar rived at Sydney on the 27th ult, and the brig antine Aurora, from the same port, reached Sydney on the Ist inst

The s.s. British King, from London, bound for this port, arrived at Cape of Good Hopo yesterday. Tho.Aorangi sailed from Teneritre on April 1.

The schooner Waipu arrived from Gisborne and East Coast porta last evening, with 431 sacks wheat. 70 sucks barley, HO sacks grass seed, 33 pigs, 197 sacks maize. 2 sucks fungus.

SMr C. Rowe, of H.M. Customs, having been granted three weeks' leave of absenoo, left for a short trip in tho schooner Hawk this morning. His place will be supplied by Messrs Ridings and Colcbrook.

A cable message received by the New Zealand Shipping Company announces that the Doric arrived at Plymouth, all well, on Sunday last. Her refrigerator was working well, and the frozen moat in excellent condition.

Tho s.s. Southern Cross arrived from Welling ton, via Napier and Whangnrei, early this morning. She landed a full cargo of sheep at the latter port The Cro3B returns South this evening.

Next week Messrs Sims and Brown will launch a small steamer to order of the Govern ment She is to bo employed m the Kaipara. Particulars have been already published.

Tho departures to-day wero unusually numerous. The cutter Lizzie, schooner Fleet wing, and ketch Forest Queen, all sailed for Mercury Boy. I'iom thero the former proceeds to Napiar. the second to Suva, and the lattor to Towns ville.

Tho s.a. Waitaki arrived from Whangarei early tills morning "with tho following passen gors:—Mosdamos Crispc (?),Slyllold,MiS3Crispp, Masters Sly field, Sloan, Messrs Robinson, Good win, Slmson, Stephenson, Baker, Johnson, and i in Bteerage.

NEW BRIGANTINE FOR AUCKLAND.

In November last a fine new wooden brigan tine of 269 tons register, built to order of Captain D. N. MeKenzin of Auckland, was launched from the shipbuilding yard of Thomas Coffin

ana Co., Nova Scotift. The vessel is now due at Melbourne, lor which port she has a full _!! aSiIi fJ!l a2-- --?£°- n-!-:^i-b- ou.dS.| yyaiTro¥ isis ~poru Wia vessel is in charge of Captain SlcGuiness. Her dimonsious are:—Length of keel, 100 feet; beam, 2G feet, 8 inches; depth of hold, 12 feet 0 inches. She is to be euiploj ed in the Intercolonial trade.

ARRIVAL OF THE RINGAROOMA.

Tho s.s. Ringarooma, 1,09 C tons. Captain Jos. Tozpr. arrived last night at 9 o'clock. She left Sydney on the 3rd instant, at 5 p.m.; passed the Three Kings on the 7th instant, at 9 p.m., and North Cape at 1.50 am. on the Bth instant; passed tho P.M.S.S. Australia at 9.20 p.m. on the 7th instant, hence to Sydney; had moderate and fresh south-east winds and sea till the 6th instant, on the 7th had fresh easterly winds and thick weather, and on the coast had light eas terly winds and fine weather. Mr John Henty, saloon passenger, died on the gth instant, at 5 p.m., when the ship was abreast of the Island of Kawau. PkSFengers for Auckland:—Saloon: Rev. R. and Mrs Laishley, Sister of St. Joseph, Miss Barker, Messrs liawson, Bland, C. E. Sampson, R. Dickson, J. Henty, R. Griffin, Bisfcop; and S3 steerage. We are indebted to Mr Robert Guy, purser, for pross parcels, Xc, and above report

LAUNCH.

Messrs Henderson and Spraggon have launched a now cutter called the "Lark," a vessel of 15 tons register, which Is to bo employed on behalf of the firm in tho river trado, carrying bricks, coal, or lime, as required. Her dimensions are: length of keel, 40ft.; beam, 13ft; dopth of hold, sft. She is a pretty craft, well put tDgether, and appears to be a fast sailer. The Larlc is in charge of Captain Clarke, late of tho cutter Watchman.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVAL.

Hannah Mokau, s.s., Dale, from Waitara X:

DEPARTURE.

Argyle, 8.5., Amodco, for New Plymouth

The B.S. Hannah Mokau arrived from Waitara this morning, with 190 sacks grass seed, 25 pkgs. nutter.. . . . The S.s. Argyle left for Waitara at J. o'clock to-day, with 60 coils barb wire. 20 boxes tea, 20 cases kerosene, 17 bundles iron, 7 cases bia cuits, 28 oases drapery. 6 sacks Beed, 60 pkgs sundries, and Messrs Muir, McCarthy, Johns, Harger. Trithy, Salter, Mlbs White, and Mrs Suiter as passengers.

KAIPARA SHIPPING.

(BY TELEGRAPH —OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Kaipaka Heads, this day.—Arrived: Sarah Pile brigantine, from Onehunga. and Aratopu, brigantine, from Sydney. Two vessels are out sidathe bar waiting for tho flood. Te Kopuru, thii day.—Loading: Killarney, barauc, and Gleaner, schooner. ABATAPt;, this day.-Loading: Waitemata, Tho schooner Marmion is at Mltltai dlscharg ing-ballast.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

WHAHOAREr, this day.—Arrived; Macgregor, s.b., from Auckland, 7 a.m.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails will Close as under i—

This Day. For Gisborne, per Southern Cross, at i p.m. For Thames, per Annie Milbank at d.30 p.m.

Thursday, 10th inst.

For Waiwera, Te Kapa, Craigieburn, Wark worth, etc., per Rose Casoy, at 10 a.m. Per Ringarooma as follows :— For India, China. Japan, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 10 a.m. For Uisliorne, Napi*. Southern Ports, Aus tralian Colonies and United Kingdom, via Suez and Brindisi, for letters, &c, specially so prepaid and adiirc.-:scd. Nt 11 a.m. For money orders. : c'■■» red letters and news papers, at lv a.m. ' te loiters till 11.29 a.m. For Thames, per Rotoiuahana, at noon For Waitara, etc.. per Hannah Mokau, at 1 p.m. For Tauranga, Ohinemutu, and Opotiki, per Wellington, at 5 p.m. . For Whangarei Heads, Kamq, Whangarei, and Mangapai, per Rowena, at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 7 r.m. . For Cowes and Coromandel, perCoromandel, at 5 30 p.m. For Mangawal and Kaiwaka, per Ruby, at S p.m. Saturday, 12th inst. For Waiwera, Mahurangi, Matakana, Manga wai. etc., per Rose Casey, at ;0 a.m. For Wangarei Heads. Parua, Waipu, Wnn garei. Kamo, Tangihua, and Mangapai, per Slargregor, nt 5 p.m. S. B. BI3S, Chief Postmaster. Chief PostrOfflce. Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

April n, ISB4. Annual Meeting o£ North Shore Football Club —Masonic Hotel, 8 p.m. British Hotel-Meeting for formation of Lumpers' Union, 7.30 p.m. United Service Hotel—Gordon Football Club Meeting, 8 p.m. Masonic Hall, Princes-street—Professor Ber nard's Dancing Class, 7.30 p.m. All Saints' Church—Address to Men, 7.30 p.m. Grafton Road Wesleyan Church—Social gathering; tea at 6.30 p.m. Reclamation—The Australian Blondin, 8 p.m.

Births.

CHRISTOPHER. -On April 6, at Franklin Road, the wife of John Christopher of a daughter.!

Marriage

QUICK-NORRIS.-On Soptomber 12. 1883, by tho Rev. T. Humor, at his residence, I rank James, eldest son of C. G. Quick, to Maudo Kthcrden, eldest diCughter of G. S. Norris, Devonport, Nortli Shore.

Deaths.

GIBLIN.-On Sth April, at Hobart, William Glblin, in the 75th year of his age. WILLETT.—At Harapipi, Waikato, on 30th March. Jemima, beloved wife of Mr Samuel Willett. Nortli Shore, and daughter of David Failayson, Harapipi. Deoply rngrotted.

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

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 1884.

For the cause that lacks assistance. For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future in tho distance, And tho geod that wo can do.

The most singular passage in Major Atkin son's somewhat remarkable speech is con tamed in tho following paragraph :—

" Having directed attention to these mat ters, in which there might bo saving of ex penditure or addition to revenue, he would point out that everything rested with tho peoplo themselves. Democratic countries weronot usually economical countries. Mem bers of tho House would talk by the hour about the desirability of reductions in every possible direction, but tho moment you put your fingor on a policeman you were told that the country was going to be ruined. It all rested with the peoplo. They must tell their membors what they would havo and what they would not have. In season and out ot season he had preached that the re sponsibility rested with tho electors, but he could not get them to believe it. As the peoplo, so tho Parliament, and so tho Government. If tho people insisted upon their members studying economy, it would bo studied."

It would bo ungracious to question the accuracy of tho Premier when speaking on a subject with which he certainly ought to be familiar ; therefore, we will accept his assuranco that the people are to blame. It becomes necessary, then, to inqniro back and see how and why thoy aro culpable— 1 what they have done to create this system of wasto and extravagance whloh it is now problem is very simple; the part taken by tho people is begun and virtually ended for three years when they elect a Parlia ment to manage tho business of the country. They did elect that Parliament In full faith that the membors comprising it would conduct the public business as faithfully and economically as they manage their private affairs. The Parlia ment, in turn, chose seven of their number, of whom Major Atkinson is the chief, to superintend the details of. the administra tion. This executive had tho solo power of making appointments and dismissing public servants. The authority of the peoplo was concentrated in their hands. No Ministry ever took office under stronger pledges to cut down expenditure and retrench in every direction than the leading members of this Ministry did. That was the sole pretext on which they wero sustained in office. And what have they done? Major Atkinson tells us himself that the administration has been and is extravagant; that the Ministry, under political pressure, improperly re duced the grain tariff to such a degree that the taxpayer had to bear an additional £40,000, for the benefit of a few people; that other of the Government ex travagances in this direction alone lost another £70,000, which they now confess to have been a mistake that must be retraced at all hazards. Wherein, then, was tho error committed by the peeple, which the Premier now coolly twits them with ? Obviously it was in returning a Par liament that put tho Ministry in office. ThU deduction is irresistible from the pre miseß stated. And how can the people en force reform and carry out the retrenchments which Major Atkinson declares to be neces sary, but which he and his colleagues have for so many years failed to apply ? Simply by electing another Parliament, consisting of men who will put in a different Ministry. The people can do nothing else. Indi vidually and collectively they may be checked by the smallest telegraph boy in their service, and they could not retronch him. Their powers are delegated, and can only bo exercised indirectly. If they are unfortunate enough to appoint representa tives wh(s will do they believe to be inadvisable for the interests of the country rather than relinquish place and pay, the people are powerless to prevent it until the election comes round, and thoy have a chance of substituting other men for those who have betrayed them. Major Atkinson's attempt to shift the blame off the shoulders of the Government on to the people utterly breaks down, or in so far as it tells at all, is merely an argument why the electors should take the first opportunity they have of put ting the present Executive out of office. VVe hardly think, however, that this was the lesson which the Premier wi3hed tho people to learn from his homily on their duties and misdeeds.

As there will be no issue of tho Stah on Friday (Good Friday), advertisements in tended for that and tho following day should be sent in to-morrow. A cable message intimates that Mr Glad stone's Electoral Reform Bill has passed its second reading in the House of Commons by a triumphant majority of 120 votes. The Tories havo evidently only offered a half hearted opposition to the measure, and it is an evidonco of tho possession of a glimmer ing of common senso~that the Parnell party voted with the Government in support of the Bill. As it has now passed tho crucial stage, there can bo no doubt of the measure becomuMUaw. We are yet with out any further ijHkiution as to provisions of the measure bwKil that contained in an "Age" special some weeks ago, to the effect that it is proposed to abolish the £50 owner ship qualification, and make the county franchise dependent on a uniform rating qualification of £10, annual value of houses or lands actually occupied.

It will be remembered that some little time ago a man named Robert Leary was arrested for stealing a watch, but as an owner was not, forthcoming he was released. Scarcely had he been at liberty twenty four hours when the police were interviewed by Mr Timothy Hayes, who gave a faithful description of the time-piece, ahd at the same time claimed it as his property. Leary was consequently re-arrested today on a charge of entering Hayes's dwelling and stealing therefrom a w^tch.meerschaum pipe, etc. ,

It has been determined by requisition of the whole of the members of the Harbour Board to hold the nest ordinary meeting on Wednesday afternoon next, instead of Tuesday, which is a partial holiday; Atten tion should be paid to the change by those i interested. '"'' '"' *• ■, ..'

A question put to Major Atkinson aj, ITawera after Ida address on Monday night brought out an expression of that gentlo man's views on the subject of education. He said that though the country was not as a whole ripo for the change, the large cen tres of population would very soon revert to a modified form of denominationalism. As there has been nothing shown to justify such an assumption as this, the probability is that in the Premier's case "the wish was father to the thought. Replying to another question, Major Atkinson said he disap proved of any public recognition of gamb ling, and inquiries were to be made as to the moral effects of the totalisator. Yes terday morning the lion, gentleman was in terviewed at Hawera regarding the Trunk Railway, but ho gave no expression of opinion beyond that contained in his ad dress. It appears that the Premier intends visiting Auckland at the present time, for we learn that the Government steamer Hinemoa, which left hero last night, is under orders to proceed to New Plymouth, pick up Major Atkinson there on Saturday, and bring him on to Auckland.

The Government steamer Hinemoa left last evening, with Mr Blaokett and Captain Johnson, of tho Marine Department, for tho Red Mercury and Cuvier Islands, for the purpose of deciding upon the most suitable place for the erection of a lighthouse. Tho Hinemoa proceeds from thenco to tho Bay of Islands and New Plymouth. At Hits latter port she is to be placed at the dis posal of Major Atkinson, who is expected to come on to Auckland.

It may be a saving of time, labour, and money to remove houses bodily, lather than take them to pieces, but if it became a general practice a great mi franco would certainly bo created. At present workmen are engaged in removing a six-roomed building along Pitt and Hobsonstroets, and the consequenco is that between this and the laying of tho tram rails, it requires a little piece of navigation on tho part of those in charge of horses and vehicles to pick their way. Last evening the house had just reached tho cornorof karangahapo Road and Pitt-street, and was so much in tho way that tho workmen wero tnld that it must be removed at once ; operations had therefore to be continued as long as possiblo. The house is said to have bion over a week on its journey, having come along Karanga hape Koad from tho direction of Ponsonby.

MrR. C. Greenwood held a sale of city properties today at his auction mart, but only tho house and shop in Franklin Road worosold, realising £895. Tho remaining properties were withdrawn for private sale

According to announcomont, Major Harris addressed tho electors of Franklin North, in tho Public Hall, Papakura, on Monday ovenlng ; Mr T. Al. Colo in tho chair. Thcro was a fair attendauco, who showed their interest by listening atten tively to the speech of their member, which lasted for an hour and a-half. Aftor reviewing the work of the past, touching upon some of the questions which ho thought would bo brought forward in tho coming session, and satisfactorily answering a number of inquiries put to him, the Major received a unanimous voto of thanks and confidence, whicli boing suitably acknowledged, and a voto of thanks being accorded to the Chairman, the meeting dis persed.

At a mooting of tho Mount Hobson School Committee held last evening, tho following members boing present, viz., Messrs W. Tait (Chairman), B. Tonks, J. Jenkins, H. K. George, James Tait, ami W. Hogg, it was unanimously resolved that the Committee should wait upon tho Board of Education on an early date to impress upon them tho absolute necessity of pro viding increased accommodation at tho Boys' School, Newmarket. It was stated that tho school was greatly overcrowded, ho much so that tho effectiveness of teaching was impaired, as many as four standards being taught in one room of anything but large dimensions. At the aaino time, it was asserted that hundreds of children residing in the district were precluded from attond ing< A largo influx of families may bo ex pected shortly, when tho railway work shops are in operation, and it was felt that tho urgency of the case demanded tho im mediate attention of tho Hoard.

During tho ensuintf session of the Auck land University Collego tho following list of lectures will bo delivered on Wednesday oveningß by Professor Tucker on the litura tnro of tho Quoon Ann period :— April IGth : Periods of litornturo—thoir characteristics and development; April 23rd: the Augustan ago of English literature, or period of Qiiocn Anno ; April 30th : Popo—biography and productions.:. May 7th < I'Arm -«oloe> tiuiif, with criticism and comniont; May 14th : Swift—biography and productions ; May 21st: Swift—selections, with critirUm and comment; May 23th : Allison and tlio "Spectator ;" Juno 4th: The poets—Thomp son, Prior, Gay, etc.; Juno 11th: The poots (continued) and the drama ; JunelSth : Tho proso writers—fiction ; June2sth : Tho prose writers—goneral; July 2nd : Gonoral view of tho period—results.

No intimation has yet been roceivod by tho Harbour Board from Messrs Winstono as to whothor or not thoy intend to proceed with tho additional work in connection with the Hobson-streot wharf at tho amount estimated by tho Engineer and offered by the Board. Tho matter is, wo learn* still under the consideration of the firm.

Alexander, "tho Australian Blondin," gave an open-air performance on tho ro claimed ground in front of the Britomart Hotel last evening. Thero was between 1,000 and 1,500 persons presont. Tho tight rope upon which Alcxandor performs in about 60ft. in length, and about 25ft. in height, at one end being a platform. Shortly after eight the performor appeared on the rope, bearing the usual balancing pole. He walked slowly to the centre of tho rope, and then lowered himself on to a trapeze, upon which ho did several clever feats. Subsequently ho laid down up on tho ropo, knelt upon it, and stood on his head. Next he walked blind fold, and then carried a boy about 12 years of age along the rope and back, amidst great applause. Alexander also danced a Highland fling in costume, and concluded the performance by walking down the in clined rope leading from tho top of one pole to the ground. During tho performance voluntary contributions were received, and appeared to come in freely. An entire change of programmo is announced for this evening.

Though the Hon. W. E. Gladstone (the British Premier) has resolved not to visit New Zealand, ho is not forgetful of his old acquaintances in the colony. One of these, Mr Mackenzie Wilson, of Auckland Pro vincial Hospital, has just rocoived a letter from the hon. gentleman, which we havo pleasure in publishing, as showing that even England's greatest statesman can at tend amid his higher duties to private cor respondenco with a former companion to whom Dame Fortune has not been particu larly kind. The letter is as follows : — " 10, Downing-street, Whitehall, February 23, ISB4 :My dear sir,—lt is very kind of you to remind me of those early days when we were schoolfellows, and which we havo now left sixty years behind us. For myself I remain engaged in severe labours, which have perhaps been prolonged beyond the'r proper'term, but which cannot very long continue. As regards your age, you aie a little, but only a littlo, beyond mo, and I trust, from the verses you aro good enough to send me, that you are under a smaller degree of pressure. I also trust that during your remaining years, and when they close, you may enjoy every solid blessing.—Believe me, faithfully yours, W. E. Gladstone. M. Wilson, Esq.,—You would not easily recognise the tract which you remember as a wild rabbit warren. Lou^ ago occupied in great part by villas, it is now rapidly assuming the aspect which commonly marks the immediate neighbourhood of Docks."

A case in which Mrs Danton, of Dock street, was charged with throwing rubbish over an embankment into nn allotment in Freeman's Bay, occupied tho time of the Police Court this morning, and tho ovidonco disclosed much unneiglibomiy feeling on both Bides. The parties had been neigh bours for years, but for four years had mani fested a dislike to each other, had been scrupulously silent, and had only shown animus by an occasional wry face, exposed tonguo slightly extended, and turned backs. Some person threw a bucketful of rubbish on the allotment, which complainant de posed was Mrs Danton. She knew her by her full-proportioned figure and Man chester cotton dress. A witness for the defence, however, showed that Mrs Danton was not out of doors on the Ist inst., and that she wore a black silk on that day. Towards evening Mrs Danton received an April fool's letter to the following effect, which was handed to Mrs Danton's solicitor: "Madam, this his April Fool's Day. Wo seed ye with the ole bucket bundlin' the nasty, dirty stiif over into the halotment. We ketched ye at it, and you shall pay for it, Madam, and remember April Fool's Day." The witnesses, severally disavowed the author ship of tho epistle. Two of them swore that it was the'wife of one of Mr Goldie's men who committed the offence, and she wore a light cotton dress. The evidence was too complicated for the discovery of the truth of the matter, and His Worship dis missed tha case. Mr Goldio thought the Council should hot be mulcted in costs in cases brought for the public good.

Tho Auckland Hospital librarian acknow ledges with many thanks the receipt of a large package of Illustrated London Journals, and Illustrated Now Zealand Journals, from Mrs Bojlan, Ponsonby.

From Mr W. K. Bishop wo learn that Bland Holt, comedian, will reach Sydney on his way back in June. It is probable that he will leave that place six or eight weeks later, and will arrive in Auckland in August or September next. He brings with him a number of fresh novelties.

Liirrikinism of a well-developed typo is rampant in Upper Symonds-street, and the interference of the police is necessary to cheek a serious nuisance from this cause. The shopkeepers in tho vicinity have good reason to complain of the pranks of hoodlums, whose disorderly conduct would meet with due recognition if they wero favoured occasionally with a "taste of the cat."

We have received a plan of the 10 allot ments (city endowment properties) to be leased for 50 years by Mr G. W. Binney (under instructions from the City Council), at his sale-rooms, Fort-street, on Wednes day next, the lGthinst., at 12 o'clock noon. These desirable and valuable allotments are worthy of tho attention of all who desire to acquire good business positions, now becom ing day by day less procurable.

This evening at 7.30, Professor Bernard opens his ovening dancing class at the Masonic Hall, I'iinees-street, whon ladies and gentlemen will bo enroled as pupils. The trustees of the Eden Torraco High way District notify by advertisement that having borne for some considerable time with rate defaulters, they are now deter mined to sue those who still refuse or neglect to pay. Ownors of dogs, too, are warned that unless they obtain collars for those who are of age they will bo proceeded against at law.

Miss Augusta L. Dargon, who boars an extremely high reputation as a dramatic reciter and actress, is expected to arrive hero shortly for tho purpose of making a professional tour of the colony. Miss Dargon arrived at Melbourne from America three or four years ago, and, though quite unheralded, her success was ko great that sho was compared with Uenton and Janauschek. Referring to her recitation of Fontenoy,or tho Irish Brigade,tho "Austva lasian" says:—"This was quite an appro priate selection for the occasion (it was St. Patrick's night), and its delivery was so full of passion, power, and pathos, that it made every Irishman in tho audienco feel like a hero, and every Snssonach, for tho moment, a coward. Sho seemed possessed for tho timo with tho spirit of an avenging angel. If the houso had been in llamos, or tumbling about you in ruins, yon must havo listened to her ; she held you in a thrall you could not havo escaped from." We may mention that Miss Dargon will bo pilotted round the colony by Mr W. K. Bishop.

Auctioneers' licenses expire on the lfith instant, and require to bo rcnowod on or before that date.

Reference lias frequently been made to the danger arising from carelessness in opening bottles containing a-rated waters, and wo aro now called upon to add another to tho record of accidents that have hap pened from this cause. On Monday even ing a young man named Kdward Sinclair was ou his way to town from Mount Albert, wliou ho stopped at the Kingsland store with tho object of refreshing himself with a glass of gingorboer. Whilo ho was in tho act of opening tho bottlo it cxplodod, and one of the fragments of glass struck him on tho palm of tho right hand, causing asovero wound, tho thumb being almost severed from the hand. -Sinclair was brought into town bleediiag profusely, and was taken to Dr. Tonnont'H surgery, where sovoral stitchos wore found necessary to bring the parts together. Tho wound was dressed again yestorday, and tho patient is now doing well. Sinclair is employed at Carby'p boot factory in Hobson-street.

A man named Georgo Henry White, who has recently been liberated from tho Hos pital, created considerable alarm yestorday morning in tho neighbourhood of his resi donco, Sealield View, by his strange con duct. Ho threatened to murder hist wife, and so dexperato was his gonoral demean with and a cab procured, and White was convoyed to tho Police Station. Ho was then examined by Dr. McMullon and another medical gentleman, who wore of opinion that White was suffering from great mental excitement, but was not in cano, consequently ho was discharged from ouot<uly. Whitn has a wife nml largo family, and Ims boon out of employment somo time His business is that of a bar man, formerly he was an hotolkceper at tho Thames.

At the ordinary meeting of tho Onohunga Borough Council, tho Mayor (Dr. Scott) in tho chair, a circular from Duncdin was received desiring co-operation in obtaining an Act to enforce tho support of firo brigades in equal proportions by munici palities, insurance companies, and the Government. A reply from tho Publia Works Department was read with reference to the railway extension, stating that in addition to tho borough land proved to bo taken for a now sito for the station, it was also proposed to take twenty-six feet of the width of Princes-street, and to erect n bridge at the intersection of Queen-street, which would bo but littlo higher than the present road. Tho proposal was considered unsatisfactory, and the matter held over for futuro discussion. James Muir Barr was elected auditor to the Council. Tho accounts were passed, and the mooting was adjourned.

The installation of ollicers at the Masonic Lodtrc Albion was performed last evening in tho Lodge-room, Dovonport. Tho Dis trict Grand Lodgo of England, tho Waito matn, Princo of Wales, and Remuora Lodges were represented by the following Masons :—Brothers Lodder, D.D., G.M., E.C. ; M. Niccol, P.M., 418 and 580, S.C ; Fcnton, P.M., GSfl, E.C; Elliott, W.M., 659, E.C. ; Leers, P.M., 1,338, E.C; Clarko, W.M., 1.335, E.C. ; Cole, P.M., GB9.E.C. ; Laßoche, W.M., 1,730, E.C; McCullough, P.M., 533, S.C ; Suiter, P.M., 421, I.C. ; Wright, Acting W.M., 348, I.C. ; Durance, P.M., Ara ; Cooper, W.M., Remuera. The Lodge was opened by Broiher Brassey, Brother Loddor acting as Installing Master. Brother Gardner was placed in tho chair of King Solomon. Tho following were then installed to office:— S.W., P.M. M. Niccol; J.W., S. Vosper; Treasurer, 0. Mays; Secretary, W. S. Lyell; S.D., W. R, Mooro ; J.D., James Mays ; Organist, J. A. Beale ; 1.G., C. Bailey ; Steward, W. 11. Brown. Tho installation of officers is to be celebrated by an "At Home," in Devon port Hall, next week.

Mr J. C. McLood, Opotiki, received from the local Farmers' Club tho following testi monial to his patent maize-cutting machine: —"The Committee of the Opotiki Farmers' Club desire to tender you their thanks for the introduction of an implement of ysur own make for the purpose of cutting down maize stalks, a want much felt in this dis trict, as hitherto this work has been done at much cost by manual labour. Our Yico-Presidcnt, Mr Gordon, has fully tested your invention, and speaks in tho warmest terms of ita capabilities. We trust you will see your way to inako tho necessary arrangements at once for its manufacture, on a scale commensurate with tho wants of this and other maize-growing districts.—A. Reid, President." We understand that Messrs Ingram and Co. have finished the making of one of these machines, but the negotiations for the acquisition of the patent are still pending It, is possiblo that Mr McLeod may not disposo of his patont right, but will givo the right of making tho machines to various manufacturers. The first ordinary weekly meoting of the Ponsonby Baptist Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association was held last evening. Thero was a good attendance. Tho President (Rer. Charlos Carter) occu pied the chair. Aftor tho enrolment of several now members, the President delivered an exhaustive address on tho benefits of mutual improvement institu tions, setting forth somewhat minutely tho principles which should guide tho members thereo; in their efforts to acquire useful knowledge of various descriptions, which was now happily accessible to all who sought it. Ignorance was a bane which should not bo tolerated, especially when it was taken into consideration that, in tho present age, all requisite facilities for learn ing were at tho disposal of everyone. The Vice-President of the Association char acterised the address aB an admirable one, and impressed upon the audience the neces sity of bearing its salient points in mind. Tho Roman orator Cicero said, " Education begins at the cradle and ends at the grave," and the saying was true. Every wise person was daily adding to his or her stock of knowledge. The late Rev. Dr. Badham, principal of the University of Sydney, tells us how he bent his mind to the acquisition of knowledge in the following memorable words: " I learn from everybody ; I often see education peeping out of rags, but I do not despise it on account of the mean garb in which it is clad." A syllabus consisting of essays, readings, recitations, debates, etc., was submitted and adopted as subjects for the ensuing three months. The pro ceedings were opened and closed devotion ally. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the President for his excellent address.

An interesting feature of the Congrega tionalist soiree last evening was tho presen tation of an address to Messrs W. C. Daldy and S. J. Edmonds, on the occasion of their retirement from the positions which they have hold as deacons. It was stated that both gentlemen had been connected with the Church ever since it was started, thirty two years ago.

There are at present four cases of typhoid fever—all convalescent—in the Hospital.

The appoaranco of a large full-rigged ship at anchor in the stroam this morning gave some people the impression that the liangitikei had arrived, and numbers of peoplo who have friends on board that vessel were on the wharf during the forenoon making inquiries. They were, however, doomed to disappointment, the ship being the Northumberland, which had hauled off from the wharf. The RangitUei is now about 110 days out, and as the change of wind last night should bo favour able to her reaching port, she may be looked for before the end of tho present week.

The plans of tho new ocean steamers' wharf have not yot boon forwarded_ for tho approval of the Governor-in-Council. The specifications are in courso of preparation, and when these are completed they will be forwarded, with tho plans, without delay.

The first lot of piles for the Devonport Wharf wero towed across tho harbour this morning, and the contractor, Mr O'Brien, intends to commenco work at once. The residents of Devonport subscribed £f)0 towards tho work, tho balanco of £100 being paid by the Harbour Board.

Joseph Inglis, of tho Wade, contractor, was to-day adjudged a bankrupt on his own petition by the Registrar.

Tho first mooting of the creditors of Lionel Phillips, in accordance with the terms of the Bankruptcy Act, will be held to-morrow at II a.m. The statement of assets and liabilities filed by the bankrupt shows the total debts to be £1,977 16s 3d ; assotH, £774 Cs 6d; liabilities to un soourod creditors—total, £1,909 18s Id. Tho assets comprised Btockin-trade in store in Queen-streot and bond, £433 10s 5d ; book dobttf, £370 2s Bd—estimated to pro duco £300. Tho principal unsecured creditors are Lango & Thonoman, Mel bourne, £314 14s Gd ; Moss Davis, Nelson, £•234 7s; A Heather, Auckland, £371 16s 8d ; Rees George, Auckland, £74 lls 3d ; L. D. Nathan & Co., £72 Gb lid ; C. Lewia son, Christchurch, £70 18s Cd ; Hart & Levy, Auckland, ±'84 ; Holland & Butler, Auck land, i'Gl 3s lJd ; Mrs Cooper, Wellington, £71 8s 2d ; Kronheimer, Melbourne, £6'1 12s 3d.

The Kennedy Family of Scotch vocalists, whose popular entertainment is known from ond to end of tho British dominions, will open next Monday, for a season of fivo nights, in tho Choral Hall, with an in toreßting programmo, whioli is published in our advertising columns. After thoir last tour of Australasia Mr David Kennedy, junior, published a pleasant little work, ontitlod "Kennedy's Colonial Travel. ' The author has supplemented this with a chatty account of tho professional tour of the family in South Africa, which gives a picture of life in tho several colonies of tho African group, including the diamond fields and Natal. Some idea of tho places visited in this town may bo gathered from tho following summary:— " Thus ended our tour through South Africa. In tho courso of it we travelled 1,360 miles of colonial roads, and 1,800 miles of colonial waters—3,loo miles in all. We had given 62 performances, singing hi 24 towns. Leaving out the sea journeys, wo had an average of s(i'2 miles of road travelling to each town. Including tho voyages from England to the Cape and back, we had in our short tour of six months travelled 17,100 miles."

Workmen have been engaged for somo little tiino making repairs to tho woodwork enclosing tho City Baths, which has boon damaged by tho encroachments of drifting vessels. Piles still require to be driven at cither end, and this will bo done during tho approaching low tides. The at tendance at tho baths has fallen off greatly of late.

Entries for all ovents at tho Ponsonby Regatta will bo received at the Ponsonby (Muli Hotel this evening, between the hours of 8 and 10.

Tho OBSKRVKK will bo published To-mor row (Thursday) instead of on Good Friday. TMs week's ißßue is unugunlly interesting, con taiiilng all tho luie.st Fashionable and Social Gossip, Soloitionß (or the Ladioa, Tipiontlic Ponkonby Regatta. " Wantod a Ilridugroom,' " Freaks of Fuahlon," " Tho Patent-Protected Woman."" A Jlonstur Government Monopoly," 11 Tho Moral of the Goodwa d Case," nil tho Iwitost Turf, Uourtlnfr, Athletic, Theatrical News. Current Topics, and Several llluuU-a ---tionn.-IADVT.]

Mr Kramor, of Shortland-strcot, announces thut ho holds ovcnlng classes for tho learning of reading, writing, nnd arithmetic— on Mondays and Wednesdays for boys, and on Tuesdays and Thursdays for young mon. His terms are one shilling a week.

SCINTILLATIONS.

Small Holdings.— Babies,

Japaneso ball tomorrow. Dunedin Corn Exchange was opened last Saturday. Business with farmers and tailors is just eow-and-sew. Major Atkinson it coming to Auckland. Tho " Tauranga Evening Post" lias gone the way of the "Telegraph." Trains commenced to run yosterday from Opua to Kawakawa. Tho telegraph and post officials have moved into the new buildings at Wellington. An inhospitable man—One who refuse* to entertain an opinion. Government havo taken over tho control of Thames Hospital. Thero are 17,700 children at public schools in Otago. A Trades and Labour Council U to bo formed in Wellington. Logs havo they, yot walk not—tables. Kinety draught horses were taken yester day by the Wakatipu from Dunedin to Sydney. Last year 22 deserted wives and 918 children were relieved by Christchureh Benevolent Society. Tho Island of Jersey, having a surface of so yon miles each way, keeps 12,000 cows. Quarantine Island, Dunedin, haabean ex amined by the Hon. Mr Dick with a view to its suitability for prison sito. Gaol officials throughout tho colony hove gathored £292 16s lOd for tho widow and family of Warder Adams, murdered in Nelson Gaol. Captain Pitfield, of tho Glenlora, died at soa, being found doad in his berth four days before reaching Lyttelton. There am over 4,500 barmaids in New South Wales. El Mahdi is tall, and coppery red in colour. He is forty yeai-s old. liana Anderson poisoned himsolf with strychnine on Monday near Waipawa. Christchurch Society of Arts Exhibition was opened last Saturday. " Expropriation " Doctrines. — Honry George is committed for trial at Timaru on the charge of uttering a forged cheque. Woman's Question. —At twenty who, at thirty what, at forty whore is he? J. Bell, a Tasmanion visitor to Melbourne, having hired a cab to take him homo from a ball lately, was driven into a back street, and robbed of £250 worth of jewellery by tho " cabby " and three accomplices. At the inquest on Louise Marion Plum ridge at Opunake, the jury found " That tho doceased died through poison adminis tered by her own hands, but the evidence did not prove her state of mind at tho time the poison was taken." A valuable seam of hematite ore has been struck whilo cutting down Dowling-gtreet, Dunedin.

Dr. Milford, a Sydney medical man, con siders that half of tho deaths which occur in New South Wales aro either directly or indirectly due to drink. A 12-roomed house in Christchurch, occu pied by Mr Sorenson, was destroyed by fire on Monday morning. The loss is covered by insurance in the National and Standard otlices.

Plain English.—lt is all very well to say that a man was hanged on a legal technical ity ; but the ropo usually has something to do with it.

" Tho Mophistopholes of Kawau " is the latest name given to Sir George Grey by tho " Otago Daily Times." Mr J. C. Mason announces that he will contest tho Ashburton seat with Mr Wright at next election.

The Committee of Dunedin Benevolent Institute have collected £950 to date.

Last year, 1,354 persons received chari table aid in Christchurch, £2,2G2 being col lected on their behalf. Of this sum £453 was raised by a " Charity Sunday." When you see an Irish mother sewing th* tears in her boy's pantaloons, you may put her down as being in favour of the "no rent" system. The Caswell Sound Marble Company has reached the end of the second year of its history. Calls to tho amount of £2,499 15s have been paid, and a shilling's worth of marble Bold. The salaries paid were £208, and the wages list amounted to £2 6s Bd. There is need for a stricter supervision of the sale of poison in this colony. Since the Opunake triple tra^ed^ there have been two other cases of poisoning by strychnine. Tho Coroner's jury at Opunake expressed a strong opinion that the sale of Buch dan gerous poisons should be better regulated.

CABLEGRAMS.

BY CABLE.-COPYIUGHT.]

[.SPKOIAL TO MESS ASSOCIATION.]

(Received April 9th—l p.m.)

Rise in Price of Frozen Meat.

London, April B.—Tho Doric's frozen muttonis selling at 7d per lb, and the lamb at 7|d to 9d per lb.

[reciter's tfxeokamk,]

The Electoral Reform Bill Passed.

London, April 6.—ln the House of Com mons laßt night the Electoral Reform Bill, providing for uniform qualification through out three Kingdoms, was after further dis cussion read a second time on a division by a majority of 120. The Parnellites voted with tho Government. The Quocn Visits Germany. London, April B.—lt is announced that tho Queen has decided to adhere to her in tention of visiting Hesso-Darmstadt, Ger many. Her Majesty's departure is h'xod for Monday next, the 14th inst.

AUSTRALIAN.

Tho Late Steamboat Collision.

Melbourne, April 8. —The Wairarapa- Adelaidu inquiry was continued to-day. Mouatt, the engineer, corroborated the statement of the remark made by Mr Mills regarding the race, and said it was merely jocular. Other witnesses denied that the Wairarapa waited for the Adelaide, and blamed the bad steering of the latter vessel Mr Mills, tho Union Company's agent, testified that he never arranged a race be tween his vessel and the Adelaide.

Tho Fatal Railway Collision.

MtuiooHsii, April 8- -Biddlc, tliootaiion master at Worribeo, through whose negli genco tho fatal railway accidont at Little Kiver is alleged to havo been caused, haß been committed for trial on a charge of manslaughter.

SPORTING NEWS.

The A.J.C. Autumn Meeting.

Sydkky papers to hand by the s.s. Ringa rooma to-day state that Martini-Henry has hardened for tho A.J.C. St. Leger to 2 to 1 on him. This has been caused by the pen being put through OH' Colour's name, the latter having met with an accident on the training track, which necessitated his with drawal from all engagements. Le Grand's prico remains at 2 to 1 against his chance, while 6tolis on offer, bar two. For the Sydney Cup, Commotion is still in possession of the premier position at 7 to 1. Mr Wallace's big colt is treading closely on tho heels of the son of Panic, 8 to 1 boing the best prico offered against Lc Grand. Sweet William is next in demand, and has been persistently supported at 100 to 10 to win a fair stake. The fielders offer 100 to 8 bar 3, Despot coming in for a little support at that figure. Since the withdrawal of Off Colour, bis stable companion, Little Sistor, is inquired for, and 100 to 4 to 5 was taken in small sums.

[lIV CADLB.]

THE LATEST.

SYDNEY, this day.

Martini-Henry has had a partial knock out in tho Gold Cup betting, Empress being now favourite at 6to 1. For tho St. Legor, Martini-Henry and Le Grand aro equal favourites.

SUDDEN DEATH ON THE RINGAROOMA.

When tho steamer Ringarooma was oft' Kawau last evening, a saloon passenger, named John Henty, died suddenly. Mr Henty had been in the service of the Bank of New Zealand in Sydney for about nine years, and for some considerable time had charge of tho George-stroet Bank. Two days after leaving Sydney, Mr Heuty began to act strangely, and talked incoherently. His actions, too, were most singular. Captain Tozer placed him in a special cabin, and gave special instructions that ho should bo well looked after. Yes terday afternoon Captain Tozer went into Mr Honty's cabin, and said that he would noon be on shore, when tho deceased rose and dressed himsolf. He then bocamo some what excited, suddenly foil backwards, and expired. Upon arrival of the Ringarooma, Dr. Tennent viewed tho body, and Mr Giblin, of the Bank of Now Zealand, who was aont for, cave directions for disposal of tho body pending the inquest.

CONGREGATIONALIST SOIREE.

There was a large attendance at the soiree held last night to commemorate the anniver sary of tho Beresford-street Congregational Church. Tea was provided in the adjacent hall, the tables being presided Over by the following ladies : — Mesdames Newman, Lyon, Steadman, Johnson, Lowo, and Davis, Misses Hoskins, Huckott, Hamer, Keep, Warner, Johnson, Fisher, Pearce, and Potter. One of the tables was provided by the bachelors of bhe congregation. Rev. J. Roberteon, pastor, presided at the public meeting held in the church subsequently. The annual report.road by MrMilno.showed thatthe church has n0w409 members. There has been a large increase of members during the year —the largest for many years past. The Sunday -school is crowded, and increased accommodation is urgently required. Class rooms aro to be added to the church, and an organ procured. The choir has undertaken to raise the price of tho organ—l'soo. The cost of the improvements will be about £1,300. A Sunday -school has been started at Mount Eden. The evangelistic and Sunday-school work being dono at Newton, and that at Manngaturoto by the Rev. A. Riding, has been very satisfactory. The receipts for tho year were £1,185, and the disbursements, £1,118. Tho re ports were duly received. Rev. Thomas Hamer, founder of tho Congregational Churoh in this city, then presented Messrs W. C. Daldy and S. J. Edmonds with a testimonial from tho minister and deacons on behalf of the congregation on the occasion of their retirement from the positions of deacons. In making the presentation, the rev. gentleman said that it was now thirty-two years since the Church was started, and both Mr Daldy and Mr Edmonds had been con nected with it nearly all that timo. Both gentlemen replied briefly. During the evening a numbor of musicAl selections were rendered by the choir, under the direction of Mr Hooten, while addresses were delivered by Rev. H. J. Miller (Onohunga), Rev. J. S. Hill, and Rev. T. Spurgeon. Tho gathering concluded with the benediction.

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Beforo H. G. Seth Smith, Esq., R.M.)

Drunk.—Three persons ; 5s each.

Beocino.—Samuel James Griffiths, a stranger, pleaded guilty to asking almß of Constable Mitchell, and expressed his deep regret.—Discharged with a caution. Unregistered.—Robert John Clarke was charged with neglecting to register his daughter, born July 13, 188&, according to the requirement of tho Act.—Held over

An Illeoal Act.—Mary Ann Danton, of Dock-streot, was charged with throwing rubbish on an allotment in this district on tho Ist April. — Inspector Goldio con ducted the case for tho Corporation, and Mr Theo. Cooper appeared in defence and pleaded not guilty. Tho investiga tion of tho case occupiod somo time. Tho witnesses for tho prosecution were Ephraim and Mary Ann Mills, and Mary Jane Ward. — For the defence, tho defendant, Mary Williams, and Jessie McLeod, gave evidence.—Mr Cooper ad dressed the Court, and urged that tho allotment was not a public place, and not within the reach of the city by-laws, that the case rose out of ill-feeling and was really one of mistaken identity.—Finally His Worship dismissed the caso with costs, £2 16s.

This was all the business,

TELEGRAMS.

[rEII PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Nai'lKU, this day.—A settler named Hans Andersen, of Makarehi, took strychnine yesterday and died, Deceased was in >ow spirits from pecuniary difficulties. The poison had been bought a year ago. No cases of typhoid fever have been re ported during the past sammer, the im munity from this disoase being attributed to sanitary improxements and strict enforce ment of regulations.

Wellington, this day.—At the Supreme Court this morning, Watty was sentenced to five years' iinpii onment on each of the two charges of forgery to which ho had pleaded guilty, the fentence to run concur rently with that passed on him yesterday. Amelia Kerr, for robbery from a dwelling, got 18 months hard labour ; and Daniel Sullivan, convicted of forgery, was re manded for sentence, pending the result of two other|charges against him.

Christohtoch, Tuesday.-By tho steamer Ruapehu, on Saturday, the Acclimatisation Society sent a number of Paradise and Blue Mountain ducks to London Zoological Society. Another five occurred last night, by which a four-roomed cottage was destroyed. Insurance: £150 in the Hnmburg-Madg burg office.

Du.vr.Dix, Tuesday.—ln a seduction case, Terence Dunno v. Hugh Morris, in which damages of £250 were claimed, Judge Williams to-day found a verdict for plaintiff for £150. The girl, who is 18 years of age, was employed in a photographic gallery along with defendant.

Dun'edix, thisday.— The Rev. Mr. Suther land, of Taieri, who goes Home by the Tongariro, is commissioned to represent Otago Presbyterian Synod at the Belfast Assembly. Donedin, this day.—John Reid, in the employ of Mr Findlay, timber merchant, while measuring timber which was being loaded from the barqie Enterprise at Port Chalmers Wharf, was struck by a piece of black pine 14 feet long, which fractured his skull. Deceased was fifty years of age, and unmarried.

In the case of New River Harbour Board v. McLeod and others, the Judge held the Board's property liable, but granted a*new trial, with costs, on the ground of Judge Ward's misdirection.

The City Council waited on the Hon. Mr Dick with a view to ascertaining if Govern ment would take charge of the Fire Brigade Bill promoted by the Corporation, and if they would promote tho taking of 25 acres of the Town Belt for cemetery purposes. Mr Dick replied that neither Government nor. himself would introduce the first bill; as to the second, he would consult his col leagues, but he had doubts about it, as, to grant the request, it would require them to act similarly towards other boroughs in the same circumstances.

CORRESPONDENCE.

Silk Culture.

(To the Editor.)

Sik, —I have just read your foot-note to my letter which appeared in last evening's Star, offering to give mo full space to discuss the question of sericulture inN.Z. I thank you for this oiler, and I shall avail myself of it on my return from Whangarei, for which place I leave Auckland at 7 p.m. I cannot, however, close this letter without remarking that you have either misunderstood the mixed farm culture which I have always advocated, or else you are restricting the discussion of the question to a ridiculous narrow compass. The rearing of silk worms and the spinning and gathering of the cocoonß would not occupy more than 50 days out of every year, so that the establish ment of silk culture, unaccompanied by other sub-tropical farm industries, would com pel this one industry to bear a 12 months' ex penditure, although tho work attending this one crop can be completed in less than two months. I havo always advocated that the culture of tho silkworm should be accom panied by the culture of tho olive, vine, and kindred pursuits, so as to distribute the work of the farm over the year, and at the same time multiply the sources of income. It was for this reason that I advocated the introduction of four separate families from Southern Europe, eacli family beinf, to some extent, a specialist in one or more of these several industries. Re specting tho profits to be derived from the succossful establishment of these indus tries, I shall write at some length on my return from the North; but in the meantime I object to havo my proposal distorted by discussing only one of the sovcral branches of the small farm mixed industry, which is successfully carried on in my native country, and in other countries in Southern Europe, and even also in California. You have contradicted my statement respecting the value of the best brands of virgin olive oil to which I alluded in my address beforo the Chamber of Commerce. I question very much if oil of the quality to which I made reference is to be found in the colony at any price. Locally produced oil from olives grown in South Australia com mands from 12s to 18s per gallon in the Adelaide market. The best Californian olive oil sells freely at 20s per gallon, or four shillings per one • pound Dottle, equal to a fifth of a gallon. Thus you will see that higher prices are paid in Cali fornia and Adelaide for a first-class pure oil than those I quoted, to which you take such strong exception. The kind of oil whose price you quote is of a quality that those who areKamiliar with genuine olive oil would never think of using.—l am, <tc., G. B. Federli.

[Of course we do not wish Mr Federli to prove that silk oulture prosecuted alone would be profitable; but we expect him to show separately that, under the conditions prevailing in New Zealand, sericulture can be made a substantial item of profit after allowinga reasonablerate for the capitaland labour invested in it. It is perfectly im material what he choses to combine it with, whether oranges or turnips. Does Mr Federli really wish us to believe that there is no fine olive oil to be procured in London ? Wo have quoted from whole sale chemists' lists the Dulk rate for the very finest oil, and it is simply deceiving in tending growers here to tell them they can get more. With reference to his Califor ninn quotation, it is rather a singular fact that though we have searched the columns of the " San Francisco Journal of Com merce," the " Commercial Herald and Market Review" of San Francieco, and the daily papers, wo can find no quotation for Caluornian olive oil, although quotations of Californian linseed oil are constantly given. The latter product,by the way,hna almost superceded the imported oil and might bo worth attention here, to meet local requirements. The olive industry seems to be so insignificant as not to have established itself in the markets. We also observe in the "San Francisco Journal of Commerce " of January 31 that the imports of olire oil from Franco alone last year (18S3) amounted to 10,201 gallons. We object, however, in toto to Californian quotations. Most of them are given for oil in small bottles, which would deceive the producer, and protective duties have raised prices of all classes of imported merchandise to extravagant rates. Such quotations are only calculated to mislead people here. The wholesalo druggists in Auckland cannot furnish the slightest clue to the valueof either Californian or South Australian oils, except the current rate for other olivo oils with which they must compete. The only definite information we can get on the sub ject is from B. Tonks and Co., who received a consignment of South Aus tralian oil in bottles about two years ago. It was of fine quality, but sold at about the samb ratos as other salad oils; it didn't pay, and no more came. We must refuse to re cognise any quotation which exceeds the rate at which Auckland merchants can im port the finest oil from London. It is sheer humbug to accept anything else,—Ed. E.S. ]

(To thoEditor.) Sm,—The thanks of all New Zealanders arc duo to you for showing up tho fallacy of sericulturo in New Zealand, and I have little wish to interfere with the able manner you have conducted the controversy ; still, 1 should like Mr Schoch to further explain some of his remarks published in this evening's Star. Mr Schoch cays: "But the silkworms are not fond of rain and fog." There hinges a vital point of the question ; the humidity of the climate of New Zea land would bo fatal. Has Mr Schoch cal oulated how many worms would be re quired to produce 10O,0001bs. of cocoons? Reckoning five to the ounce, it would take 8,000,000 worms to produce that quantity. Now, let Mr Schoch tell us what buildings would bo required in which to rear and house the worms, for they are very chary about being too closoly packed in the trays, and how many women and children would be required to attend upon them, for they want feeding twice and cleaned out at least once per day. The silkworm is very susceptible to all of^eneiye odours, and sanitary measures must be properly attended to. When M;r Schoch. has solved these questions I have a few more to ask him.—l am, &c.j A Silk Throwster April 8, 1884. ~. !

MINING.

[BY TELKMIAI'II—OWN CORRESPONDENT.]

Thames, this day. New Prince Imperial.—Driving has been resumed at No. 4 level on No. 2 reef, and the face is about 200 feet from the eastern boundary. Gold is seen in breaking' down. Cross-cutting at No. 2 level to connect with the air shaft will be started shortly. There are about 40 feet to drive. • Kuranui Hirx.—ln rising on No. 9 reef above the tunnel level, Kelly's section, the junction of another lode has been met with and gold seen in both bodies of quartz' The drive at Albion 80-feet level should con nect with the Herald shaft in less than a week. |

Cambria.—Gold was again seen yester day in breaking the main lode and footwall stringers in the winze. Darwin.—The excavation of the cham ber at the 230-feet level is now being pro ceeded with.

Waiotahi.—The new boiler was placed in position yesterday, and being built in, it is expected to effect a considerable saving in fuol. A new cylinder is being made for the battery engine. Work will be started in little over a fortnight. Alburnia.—Four men are still employed extending the low level on a cross leader, which is from 4 to 6 inches thick, and lying in a favourable class of sandstone. The manager expects to meet with several junctions in the next 150 feet, and there is a chance of getting gold at these. The Sons of Freedom reef is about 700 feet dis tant yet.

SUPREME COURT.-Criminal Sessions.

Yesterday Concluded.

(Before Hin Honor Mr Justice Giiliee.l

Shoowxg a Horse. — In the case of Alexander Grant, charged with shooting at and wounding a horse belonging to a native named Hotene Kaiheunu at Alexandra, the jury returned a verdict of "Not Guilty." His Honor, in discharging the prisoner, pointed out that the jury had acquitted him probably for the reason that they believed when he shot the horse he had no intention to injure it. Whatever his intention, however, the fact remained that the horse was peppered with shot. Tho commission of such an act rendered the doer of it liable to 14 years' penal servitude, and he wished this to be widely and publicly known. The jury had found the prisoner " not guilty," and it was therefore his duty to discharge him; but, at the same time, he took the opportunity to warn those who might be induced to commit a similar act of its serious consequences.—This closed the criminal sessions of the Court.

CIVIL SESSIONS.-This day.

UNDEFENDED CASES.

F. G. Ewinoton v. Rees and Akltileb : Claim, £1,300.—Mr Hugh Campbell ap peared for the plaintiff, and in opening the case mentioned that it was undefended. It was an action to recover £1,300, and in terest at the rate of 8 per cent, since No vember last, viz,, £35, on a due dated pro missory note mode by the defendants, W K L. Rees and Wifere, in favour of one G. M. Reed, and endorsed by the plaintiffs, Ithadlejn dishonoured, and the present proceedings were the result. — F. G. Ewington and Albert S. William Gould having given evidence, the jury at the direction of His Honor, returned a verdict for the amount claimed, with interest added.

Fredibijk Greenwood v. Mabt Old ham and Others.—Claim (poss'snion) £40, rent and mesne profit?,—Mr E. Mahony appeared for the plaintiff.—John liuchanan, agent, proved the rent to be due, ana showed that the lease under which the de fendants had held expired o 1 the first of January last.—Judgment, was entered for the amount claimed, together with costs on the lowest scale, and possession ordered to • Adjourned. Mark Woodward v. Benjamin, John, ■ and James Uittos.—Claim for £1,000 damages and writ of injunction.—Ad journed for three months, pending a settle ment of the matter. John Gwynneth v. Rutene te Umanga and Others.—Claim for services rendered. —Adjourned till June. Samuel Brown v. John Shekhan.— Claim for amount duo under bond.—Ad joarned till June. Hone Taua Rehtja v. Edwin H. Hardy. —Claim, £500 damages and writ of in junction.—Adjourned till June. Wh, Andrew Cowan v. John William Thompson and Another.—Action to de clare transfer of property void.—Adjourned till June. Samev. John Wm. Thompson.—Action for judgment on District Court judgment. —Adjourned till June. John London v. Jamks Sullivan.— Action for taking accounts.—Adjourned till June. Struck Out or Settled. J. H. Jamieson v. Harold H. Marion De Bourbel: Claim, £500 damages,— Struck out by consent. Archibald Clements v. Bernard Mon tague : Claim for amount of account (two actions).—Settled. Jules George Wilson v. Francis Dyer Rich and Others : Claim, for services rendered. — Struck out by consent, the matter have been referred to the arbitration of Mr Barstow. ■ National Bank of New Zealand v. David Bruce and Another s Claim for liquidated demand.—Settled. David Hunter n. Norwich Union Firb Insurance Company. — Action to recover amounts under policies of insurance.— Settled. Defended Casks. Wm. McLeod v. Jameb Mactarlane.— Action for dissolution of partnership and taking of accounts.—Mr E. Hesketh for plaintiff, and Mr H. H. Lusk for the defendant.— The declaration stated that the parties to the action in Juno, 1876, entered into business as. general produce dealers by opening a store at Taheke, Hokianga. After several years the plaintiff retired from the business, and defendant undertook to wind it up. The plaintiff now alleged that no account bad been rendered him, and he therefore prayed the Court for a settlement of the partnership accounts. He further alleged that in April, 1876, ho con veyed to the defendant, by way of mort gage, for the nominal sum of £400, certain land at Kanakawa as security for advances made by the defendant; and also that he sold land Kawakawa [for the joint benefit of both parties, and that the de fendant had made profit out of it. In neither of these instances had the defend ant rendered an account and the plaintiff therefore prayed for a settlement of ac counts in respect of them all. The de fendant, in his plea, alleged that so far a.s the store was concerned tho accounts had been rendered and settled long ago, and that transaction in regard to it had taken place during the last six years. The plaintiff therefore had all the information ho asked for. Dpon the other matters he had at all times been willing to render an account, and it would be found, that there was a balance owing to hjm by the plaintiff. After some discussion as to the proper mode of procedure, Mr Lußk opened the plaintiffs case. William McLeed, the plaintiff was then examined. At the close of this witness's evidence His Honor said that it seemed to him that there was no dispu(» in the case. All that waa wanted was the taking of the partnership accounts. The plaintiff was entitled to a half share in tho profits or losses of the. business. The defendant, James Macfarlane, was then placed in the box, and in answer to Mr Heskoth acknowledged the substantial correctness of the plaintiff's statement. They had been in business some seven or eight months, and during that time lost £200 odd, of which the share of each was £101 9s 2d. The mortgage was simply by way of security, and land was purchased for the joint benefit of both parties. It was therefore agreed to adjourn the case for further directions, leave being given to move again.

Claim, £500, damage for libel.—Mr C E Button for the plaintiff, an d Mr E. Hesketh for the defendant,—Mr Button, in opening the case, stated that the plaintiff in partnership with Mr A. C. Turner, carried on the business at Tauranga of auctioneers and commission agent?, and that latterly he had also been acting as agent of a New Zealand Insurance and Commercial Company, In December last the defendant published in the "Bay of Plenty Times " thefollowingadvertisement —" Warning Notice.—The undersigned hereby warns the residents of TauraW» an,d settlers of the Bay of Plenty agaim t the efforts now being, made by an un-. scrupufcus local agent known as Tricky J°/>..Wd. hi? coadjutor, the Commercial Jjrauq,' of Tauranga notoriety, endeavour jng to palm off on a confiding public in the guise o{ a company that has already

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 1884



"It's a Wosukiwui. Medicine, and has cer tainly done me tjood," is tho roport of a lady who was suiruriui; with oppressive breathing and distressing cough—tho commorfsymptoms in lung disuasn. Shu.spoke of Aickin'sbyrup of Kueahptus with llypopliosphitcs of Lime and Quinine, as many others havo done. It does not require faith. A liitlo exporiencp will prove its value to tho sulferer. Address: •' The Pharmacy," Queen-strtet.



Special Advertisements* ■nEMOVAL OF BUSINESS. JJILNE £ QHOYCE Respectfully Announce that THEY HAVK REMOVED THBIR BTOCK ' TO THE LARGE NEW BUILDINGS, WELLBSIiEY AND LORNE-STREET3, Where they are now showing the Latest Novel ties in FRENCH AND ENGLISH MILUNERY, DOLMANS AND JACKETS IN RICH BROCADE VELVET, OTTOMAN AND OTHER MATERIALS, CHILDREN'S AND LADIES' ULSTERS, stylish costumes. dress materials in stripes and chkkjks, and nsw plain Fabrics, , : . furs, ixaoe goods, hosiery, and . " . ..■. •: QUBVEB. ■ ■■ LADIES' UNI>KRCLOTHIN« AND BABY ■■■ '-UNER/ ;l1 •„".'-;,. '■;■ ■



Special Advertisements. INSURANCE COMPANIES' ASSOCIATION. Iwraranco Offi»e will be CLOSED FRIDAY. SATURDAY, and MONDAY, 11th, 12th, and Uth April (Easter HolW^^ TKMFORABT PREMISES OPPOSITE A. CtARK AND BOSS. H« I" POSSENISKIE, MERCHANT TAILOR AND IMPORTER. SHOIITXAND-STREKT, AUCKLAND, Wishes to Inform His Patrons ami the Publlo generally that he has JGST RECEIVED HI3 FIRST SHIPMENTS OP AUTUMN AND WINTER GOODS, PBB S.S. RUAPBHU. The above comprise ali the Latest Designs In TWEEDS and COATINGS, and are well worthy an inspection. AUCKLAND GAS COMPANY (LIMITED), ESTABLISHED 1882. PURVEYORS OF LIGHT, HKAT, AND POWER. The Company sell and erect gas-fittings, in cluding gas apparatus und gas-power engines. Stock includes Otto Qa3 Engines.-Offlce and Show-rooms. Fort-str«t t. Mrs r. somerville, WELLESLEY-STREET (OPPOSITE ABBOTT'S OPERA nOUSE), Has Received, per Mail Steamer, A BEAUTIFUL ASSORTMENT OF . FRENCH AND ENGLISH MILLINERY. TO BE SHOWN ON MONDAY, APRIL 7. And following days, AT T. McMASTER'S. QUEEN-STKKKT. AT T. McMASTEK'B, QUKEN-STHKKT, A Labor Stock op NEW GOODS, JUST RECEIVED BY THE NORTHUMBERLAND, From London, Comprising— NOVELTIES IN MANTLES, MILLINERY, j DRESSES, AND COSTUMES. ALSO, NEW GENERAL DRAPERY. BLANKETS, FLANNELS, Etc., MEN'S CLOTHING. SHIRT 3, HATS, AND , SCARFS, AT T. McMASTER'S, Opposite the Market TERVOIS HOUSTGI *' PONSONBY. W. G. ALLEN Begs to announce that ho lias opened In the above premises with a new and well asaorted stock of Drapery, suitable LADIES' JACKETS AND ULSTERS in Great Variety. OPERA CLOAKS, HOODS, WOOL SQUARES Clouds, &c. (Plain and Embroidered), A Largo Assortment. WOOLLEN HOSIERY of Every Description. DRESS MATERIALS In all the Neweßt Shades of Cashmeres, W sol Toules, Wool Checks, &c OAiICOKS.,_SHE t BTI l N D ftg ca flftVljooa2 D MEN'S & BOYS' CLOTHING. HATS. SHIRTS, Collars, Ties, and all Descriptions of MEN'S MERCERY. MILLINERY AND DRESSMAKING done upon the premises. W. G. ALLEN, Jervois Road, Ponsonby. U7HEMS SHALL I FURNISH MT HOUSE FROMt THE OHEAPKbT ALL RO.UND HOUSE TO FURNISH FROM IS THE CITY HALL ARCADE GARLICK & CRANWELL ! 1 IRON BEDSTEADS, go to GARLICS & CRANWEU* BEDDING go to JT GARLICK & CRANWELL. BEDROOM FURNITURE, goto GARLICK & CRANWELU CARPETS, gp to GARLICK & CRANWELL, GARLICK & CRANWELL, House Furnishers. GARLICK & CRANWELL, Upholsterers. GARLICK & CRANWELL, Manufacturers 09 Ali KINDS Or irUBNITUKB. qjie a p t apkstry. tc brußßel c arpbtb, Cheap Oilcloths & Linoleum, ciiikap & Beautiful Cretonnes, Cheap Blankets & Curtains. QARLICK & CRANWEIA HOUSE FURNISHERS City Hall Arcade. QUEEN-STBEBTt AUCKLAND. pRBAT BARGAINS BLANKETS, FLANNELS, JACKETS, ULSTERS, &a William It. JlSridtjman Has lost opened up a Splendid Lot of Now Goods for the Winter Season, exceptionally well bought, and will be sold at a very moderate advance to meet the times. 300 Pairs Now Blankets, all sizes and quali ties), from 6s 6d pair, having been bought con siderably under usual rates, will be sold cheap, and cannot be beaten. BOUGHT A JOB. Nearly T-wo Hundred (£200) Founds worth of Ladies' and Girls' Ulsters and Black Cloth Jackets, which will bo SOLD AT and UNDER WAREHOUSE PRICES; somo very choice Goods In Dolmans, &c. Girls' Jackets, from 3s 9d; Ladies' Heavy Ulatora, from 6s lid 2,000 yards Flannels, all makes, from 7Jd yard Colonial. Flannol, lljd; 32in. Heavy Welsh, Is Bid Jworth 2s 60 Coloured Alhambro Quilts, 2s 6d Special Value in Grey Calicoes, 32in., 23d yd Choice Patterns in New Cretonnes, 6Jd yard, worth 9d Strong Worsted J-hoad Super Fingering Yarn, ahead Nice Assortment New Dress Goods, from 3Jd Boya' Strong Tweed Trousers, 3a 9d; Men's Tweed Trousers. 4s lid 30 Men's Strong Tweed Coats, 6s lid, spl'd value New Winter Goods in all Departments Job Lines in great variety, and lot of Romnanta, very cheap, and worthy of inspection Floorcloth, in all widths, from 271 n., Od yard. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, UPPER QUEEN-STREET. ■DAINBRIDGE'S TIME TABLE. From Union Bank—22 mlnntea past the hour and 23 minutes to the hour. . ' From The Three Lamps—7 minutes to the hour, and every hour. Night Trips from Town—S-paat S, J-past 9, l-paat 10, and J-past 11. From Three Lamps— 8,9,10,11. From Umow Bank to Shrlly Beach—7 minutes past 9,7 minutes past 11,7 minutes past 2,7 minutes past 1, 7 minutes past 5, 23 minute* past6,a&d/87 minutes put 7. . ■ ■ - JTrom BJEELLY Beach—aSO a.m., 8.45 a,m.. 1030 am,, MOp.m., 3.30 p.m., 4.30 p.m., and 7.16 ;^TTJRDAYS>ROI#gHEH,Y BKACH-&S0 BJn. .45 a.m., 10.30 a.m., 12.30 p.m. From CHIOS i AKS-iWftJB- U-7OJK. aadUp, W ;



A sale of fancy goods will take place in the Ponoonby Baptist Church to-morrow, be tween the hours or 2 and 9. A charge of Od is made for the privilege of entering to buy. Competitors are reminded by advertise ment that entries for tho Ponsonby Regatta, on Easter Monday, aro to be made this oveiunir, between 8 and 9 o'clock. Bicycles, unequalled for finish, price and quality, at Shakespear & Cos. (opposite he Market), Quoon-ntront.—{ Advt.l Contracts taken for all kinds of concreto work, large or small, and estimates and other information giving! o those wishing to do their own work.—John Wilson and Co., 75, Queen alreet.-{ADVT