SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

Hrmmi Tl ™ /This Evening, 0.31 6H WATJSK \To- m orrow Morning, 1.10 SIIXSKT.-Thls Evening. C.28 SUNRISE.—To-morrow Morning, 5.5-1 BOON'S AGIL-First Quarter, sth, 1.12 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

Waitaki, s s., Crawford, from Whanmsrei Christine, sch., Evanson, from Russell

DEPARTURES.

Oceola, brigantine, Bexer. for Mercury Bay Albert the Good, brig, Le Maistre, for Great Barrier , Macgregor, S.S., Johnson, for Whangarei

EXPORTS.

Per Zealandia, for San Franoisco: 229 sacks potatoes, 109 cases gum, G9 bag 3 fungus, 5 hhds. Per Louie, for Noumea (to Bo loaded at Mer cury Bay): .70,080 feet sawn limber.

Inwards Coastwise. — Pukapuka, from Great Barrier, with '15tons firewood; Totara, from Whongapoa, with 25,000 ft. timber; Chris tina, from Russell, with 80 tons coul; Ooralie, from Coromandel, with 40 tons* firewood.

Outwards Coastwise. ■— Pukapuka, for Barrier; Totara, for Whangapoa; Christina, for Russell; Medora, for Awanui.

The three-masted 'schooner Walreka arrived at Hokianga from thin port yesterday. The schooner Louie cleared at the Customs to-day for Noumea, via Mercury Bay.

The brig Albort tho Good sailed this morning for Great Barrier, where she Is to load for Melbourne.

The brigantine Oceola sailed last evening for Brisbane, vlaMerenry Bay.

The schooner Faany Thornton cleared at tho Customs to-day for Hokianga with ICO bags flour, 141 packages groceries, 18 kegs ale, 21 pickages ironmongery, 5 kegs ale, 5 cases Drnndy, and sundries. The s.B. Ruapehu will leave for London, via Wellington, Port Chalmers, and Lyttolton. about noon to-morrow, with 16 bales leather, 12 bales basils, and 52 cheeses.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

; Xrkivals. Argyle, 5.9., McArthnr, from Waitara Storinkird, s.s., Doile, from Wanganui

DEPARTURES.

Wanaka, 3.3., Neville, for the B»uth Argvle ff «.3., McArthur, for Ilokianga : .•■-•■:;■ t. ■■• ■

Tho SXATgyle arrived from Waitara early thi.'i morning, with 31 headcattlo and 5 packages sundries. She left again at 1 o'clock for Hokianga, with 150 packages sundries.

The s.s. Stormblrd arrived from Wanganui at 0 o'clock this morning, with 230 sheep and 10 paokages sundries. She leaves for Wel lington via Wanganui at 6 o'clock tomorrow morning. , • . : : , ■

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Thames, this day.—Sailed: Endoavour, for Lyttelton, with 60,000 feet kahikatea timber. Whang ark£ this day i—Arrived: Macgregor, from Auckland, 7 a.m. Waitara, this day.—Arrived : Douglas, from Onchunga, 2 a.m. , NKwPtYMOtJTH.thiSday.—Arrived: Wanaka, from Oneiiunga. 6 a.m. , WusTPOnT, this day.—Arrived: Kawatiri, from Auckland, 3.29 a.m, i I

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails win Close as itntjkr :— This Day. For Tairua, per Magellan Cloud, at 4 p.m. Per Wairarapa as follows:— For India, China, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Kurope. at 3 p.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, Australian Colo nies and United Kingdom, via Suez and Brindici, or via Naples, for letters, etc., specially bo prepaid and addressed, at 1 p.m. Money Orders, for Australia only, at 3 p.m. For registered leiters and newspapers, at 3 Late letters for Sydney and Melbourne only For Norfolk' Island und Noumea, per Fairy Queen, at 4 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 4.30 p.m. For Wellington and Southern Ports, per Rua pehu, at 5 p.m. Thursday, fith last. For Thames, per Rotomahana. at 8 a.m, For Waiwera, Te Kapa, Craigieburn, Wark worth. etc., per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Waitara, etc., per Douglas, at 11 a.m. For Gisborne, Napier, Southern Ports and Australian Colonies, per Te Anau, at 11 a.m. For Whangarei, Woangarel Heads, Kamo, and Mangapai, per Waitaki. at 5 p.m. For Tauronga, Ohinemuta, and Opotikl, per Glenolg, at 4 p.m. Friday, 7th in»t. For Cowes and Coromandol, per Coromandel, at 1.30 p.m. Monday, 10th inst. For Suva, Fiji, and Samoa, per Penguin, at 1 P m' S. B. BISB, Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

March 5,

Abbott's Opera House—Royal Comic Opera Company, 7.45 p.m.

Excelsior Lodge, Franklin Road—Open Lodge Entertainment, 8 p.m.

Theatre Royal—Presentation of Prizes to the sucoessful competitors at New Zealand Rifle Association Meeting 8 p.m.

H.A.C.B. Society—Meeting of Juvenile Con tingent, 7 30 p.m. Working Men's Club—Final Meeting of Eight Hours Demonstration Committee. 7.30 p.m.

Notices to Correspondents.

Voluntkkr.—The Rifle Belt was twice won by nn Auckland Volunteer, viz., at the first competition by — Brighton, und in 1575 by Lieutenant Skinner. W. A. Thomas.—The foundation stono of the Auckland Market was laid on November 11, 1872, and the formal opening took place on June 20,1873.

Births.

TODD.—On the 2fith Fobruary, at Koraokorau, at the residence of her father, the wife of David Todd of a daughter (prematurely).

Deaths.

JQHNSTON.-On March 4th, at Otahuhu. Eliza Jane, daughter of Joseph and Juno Johnston; aged 8 months.

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

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 1884.

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

Leading matter is withhold from this issue in order to make room for local and other news. A lengthy report of tho discussion at tho Harbour Board meeting yesterday after noon upon the question of reconsidering the appointment of a dock engineer appears upon the fourth page of this issue. 'Die resolution affirming tho desirability of reconsideration was negatived upon the Chairman's casting vote, so that Mr Brrington's appointment is practically con firmed. His remuneration was fixed at 2 J per cent, on tho amount of the contract, provided that it does not exceed £120,000.

Mr G. W, Griffin, tho United States Consul, returned to Auckland yesterday from a business tour to Christchurch ana Dunedin.

Wo have received from "A Friend "tho sum of 2s 6d on behalf of Mis Rollinson.

Alex. McArthur, of Auckland, |school teacher, was yesterday adjudicated a bank rupt.

, V>J-., 1~1"T. *"•>? V J°"v?>nJrom a correspon dent that the University 9enan> \XZ fitting at Nelson bus fixed on Auckland as its piaJz of meeting next year, on tho third Wednes day in February.

Messrs B. Gittos & Sons have drawn tho attention of the Harbour Board to the fact that they have a quarry of first-class hard blueskme, suitable for dock and other purposes, upon their land at Avondale, close to the railway station. Tho Board intend to submit the letter to the con tractors for the Calliope Dock as soon as a tender has been accepted.

The only case before Messrs Prime and McMillan, Justices, at the Police Court this morning, was a case of assault, in which Samuel Cox was charged with striking George Abdul on the 21st ult. Mr Brassey for informant, and Mr Tole in defence. The information set forth that Samuel Cox, proprietor of a restaurant in Queen-street, struck and wounded his cook, George Abdul, with a billet of wood while in bed, thereby iiiiiictjng injuries on the head. The witnessa3, Dr, Walker and Thomas Cloy, wero prepared J*> give evidence, but in. the absence of the chfef witneos, a Pitcairn Islander, tho hearing was adjourned until Friday.

We are desired by Captain Crutohley, of the s.s. Ruapehu, to acknowledge with many thanks the receipt of a donation of £1 towards the Seaman's Widows and Orphans Fund from a lady who writes that she was courteously shewn over the vessel on Sun day.

In No. 34 of the United States Consular Reports, the only reports from Australasia are two by Consul Griffin of this city, on " New Zealand Fisheries," and " Financial Statistics of New Zealand," respectively. A number of coincidences occur in connec tion with the first of theae papers. Its place in the volume is immediately after a report on " The Irish Fisheries," by Consul Piatt, of Cork.;'and'the curious facts have been pointed out to us that the two Consuls thus linked'were ."boys'together." in old Kentucky, were fellow-litterateurs on the staff of tho" Louisville Journal," and floth wrote a "Life of Geo. B. Prentiss.' 1 A marked dissimilarity is to be found, how ever, in tho fact that Mr Piast has a family of seven children, whilo C'dnßul Griffin still revels in the bliss of 'single Ufa, ' "

Despite the counter-attractions qf the Opera, there ought to be a largo attendance at the Orchestral Society's concert on Friday evening. For tho last year these concerts have peon monthly increasing in tho public favour, and the performance of the otfohestr.a and the selection of thfe pro gramme J^avp'iipWreached Such a pitch of excellence that Ujp coming concert should stand eminent "aWPffg #}fth&'t'haveI'gone before it. The mosf nojtabjLs fimong the pieces to be performed by tfee orchestra is the concerto of Mendebnohn, Jo ybfoh Mr Forrest will occupy the post of pjanjst. Then come a symphony of Iladyn, and two overtures —onebyCherubini and the other by Reisßigs, #nd a waltz by Herr Schmitt. In the vocal numbers are noticeable a sprightly waltz-song by Her? Sehmitt, an amorous "lied" by flieron Truhn, # song by Doni zetti, a charming glee by Smart, and a grand trio and chorus from " Norma." An amusing medley of airs of their own, en titled "Kaleidoscope," will be given by Messrs C. and J, Hemuß, Clough, and 'Edger: andLumbye'scaptivating "Traunv' bilder will be rendered by the orchestra. Such, indeed, is the electric nature, of the programing it^ftt everyone must find some thing to ieirijer&Jp ,*s well as to instruct their musioaj tast<e..

Last evening, a »»eetiog w«a bM in the Baptist Church, Ponawby, for tfoe Buxposp of forming an association for tfoe mentafnnd moral improvement of young men, resi dents in that rising district. There was a fair attendance, and a lively interest was taken in the proceedings, The Rev. Charges Carter was moveef -to tho chair. After Ho.njs discussion of a conversational character, ft'jy#s unanimously resolved to form an aßsooMj,tjo£so fee designated.'' The Ponsonby Young Mmrrs tyabual Improve- ment Society," the principle '.condition of membership thereof to be a belief in the divine inspiration of this Scriptures, arid in the existence of a Supreme Ueing. The following office-bearers were' then' elected :—Rev. C. Carter, President; Mr J. Hay, Vice-President; Mr'HerWf; jjniffht, Secretary; Mr A., Collins,'Treasurer's an 4 Messrs' White, Turley, and F. M, Hay, Committebraen, A codo c)f rules was. adopted end orderefi to be printed. It wa's^ agreed that tk& meetings of tho Society should be held'on'Tuesd/sty evenings] in'the Baptist Church,'and th/jjitan ej^o^be made' to induce as r many young inen'aspossjWe tjo join it, witlibht.refer'ence to dfeppminatio'n-. alism. As.the'population' of Pbnsonby' is' morp raradly increaaing than'thUt' of any' Other auljuri)^ Jqcality, a larffb member-. ship is looked forward to by the Society. The proce'-dingß were opened and closed devotionallV'

. Mr Seaman reports the nomination of Messrs Arthur Hunt, Alfred Pollard, John Scarrott, Archibald Stewart, and Andrew •3. Thompson, as candidates for the Mount Wellington Licensing Committee, and being only the number required, the same were declared to be duly eleoted, and Friday, March 14th, at 12 o'clock was appointed for the first meeting for the elec tion of a Chairman, to be held at 31, Insur ance Buildings, Auckland.

Water consumers by meter are reminded that payment of the quarterly accounts due on the 29th require to be paid forthwith at the City Council office.

To the Editor : Sir,—Can you inform me when the Volunteer Ball usually given in other cities to the Volunteer representatives is to take place in Auckland ? It was men tioned in the morning paper a few days ago that the ball was to take place, but nothing further has been heard of the matter. —I am, &c, Sahib Boojum.

Mr J. Oliphant Hughes, the Returning Officer for Otahuhu district, received yes terday tho following nominations for a Licensing Committee:—Charles Augustus Bowden, Thomas Stringer, John Fairburn, Samuel Luke, William Absolum, James McElroy, George Hotham, John Gordon, Howard Hutton, and William Robert Wills.

The Yen. Archdeacon Maunsell writes :— "The Bibles, the receipt of which the librarian of tho Hospital acknowledged in your paper of last evening, were the gift of the Auckland Bible Association, who very liberally made the grant when I applied for it."

At the R. M. Court, Otahuhu, on Tuos day, before J. C. Jackson, Esq., R.M., and Howard Hutton, Esq., J.P., the following eases were dealt with :—.John King, drunk and disorderly, fined 20s and costs; Robert Harkness, drunk and disorderly, fined 20s and costs; James Avery, drunk, Ds and costs.

The Skeleton Army is not popular at Otahuhu. These roughs of Auckland fol lowed the Salvationists out to Otahuhu on Monday evening, to the disgust of the peace-loving villagers. Their conduct and language are said to have been simply bar barous ; mid there is some serious talk of the inhabitants forming themselves into an Anti-Mob Protection Society.

The Fire Brigade Dramatic Club is going ahead, and the sevoral practices" denoto a creditable success. Among its numoroua members are unmistakable signs of dramatic and vocal talent. The members have re solved to give a dramatic entcrtainmont in the Theatre Royal on St. Patrick's Evo in aid of the wardrobo fund, as Hamlet, with out his "inky cloak," would be compara tively meaningless. The pieces selected for dramatic representation on tho 16th instant are " St. Patrick's Night " and " A Rough Diamond," interspersed with music and song.

The excursion yesterday to Motutapu per ferry steamer Victoria was tho annual excursion of thoNorthcoto Total Abstinoucc Society, not merely of " Birkonhoad residents" as stated. A correspondent says:—Northcoto was abroad in full force, from tho grandfather to the baby, and from the schoolmaster to tho parson. The day and trip were both very enjoyable. Rambles after the deer (not tlears of courso) and tho omus, with dancing on tho green sward woroonjoyod bysome, while othersdolighted their .esthetic or bucolic minds with tho grand «ea views or tho find herds of short hornod cattle; there is choice of both. Tho party being a temperance ono, neither tho officers of tho smart ferry steamer nor tho courteous ownors of Hie island had cause to regret their visit, as on a provioiiH occasion, and tho thanks of all aro duo and are gratefully tendered to tho Mos?rs. Reid and to Captain Clarko for their kindnoss and courtesy to old and young.

"The Old Land and tho New," a song which first saw the light of publicity in tho Star Christmas Supplement for 1883, has just been set to music by a local composer and publishod in sheot form. Tho author of the song is Mr W. R. Wills, Otahuhu, and tho composer of tho mui.ic is a young gentleman who scarcely conceals his identity under thonamoof "Dasma." This piecohas all tho olomonts of popularity—tho thomo being one appealing to widespread sympa thies, the music pleasing if not striking ; all is of colonial inspiration and execution, down to the printing, which is as officiontly done as if it had emanated from a London house. We havo pleasure in anticipating a good reception for "The Old Land and tho New" in the appreciative musical circl°° o f « llo i,i_-a «»•] tiro coionygonerally. It is to be had at all intisicscHcrs'.

The Auckland Timber Company havo had a steamer fitted up by Mr David Gouk ex pressly for tho harbour trade. Tho grow ing business of the Company rendoring it imperative to adopt some new system of supplying customorg who reside near tlio sea shore or tn tbo vicinity of the numorous landing-places on tho banks of the Waito mata, and with a view to improvo on tho old costly and tedious method of forward ing material, the s,s. Terror has boon thoroughly overhauled, and will in futuro run with timber, doors, sashes, 4c, to any part of the harbour, delivering tho same on any wharf or pier at which ordinary ferry steamers call. Tho Terror is now a moro stylish-looking boat than formerly, with an average speed of about nine knots per^ hour—as her engi neer says. " She is a terror to go I" Sho is commandod by Captain Jackson. Tho run ning of a special steamer to ensure rapid delivery is a spirited step on tho part of the Company, and will no doubt bo duly appre ciated by tho timber • consuming com munity.

Mr Seaman reports the unopposed re election of Messrs John Bollard, John Buchanan, James William Carr, James Henry Hayr, and Rev. .Robert Somervillo as the Licensing Committee for the Mount Roskill District, and at a subsequent meet ing of Committeo tho Rev. R. Somorvillo was again appointed Chairman.

An awkward typographical error occurred yesterday in Mr Donnison's letter on tho Bay of Islands Coal Company. He wrote : —"Although the manager could fill tho office of the Company with cores of tho over lying strata passed through, these were but the shell without tho kernel;" but by mis take the word italicised was printed "coals," which oompletely spoiled the sense.

Since the sale of the Surrey Hills Estate allotments, streets have been laid out by the Arch Hill Road with high-sounding titles, which give promise of a busy neigh bourhood at no distant future. A number bt new villas and houses are springing up almost with the rapidity bf mushrooms in one night. The newly-planned streets bear striking appellations, reminding spectators of the aristocratic and note worthy names of the old land of Milton and Locke. Especially noticeable are the names of Coleridge, Tennyson, Grosvenor, Har court, 'Elgin,land Boaoonsfield ;■ but, strange to state, the name of the vener ablo' and able statesman, Gladstone, has' been omitted from the- presuming list, whether accidentally or otherwise it is hard to say. The road from Karangahape to fho Arch Hill pub. is peculiar, and perhaps re ■ prosentative. It is under the management pf two road boards,' and their dividing parta, in their opposite features, like the Sun (j'n4 the moon, have bright and shadowy eei»pjfixipns.;' the Newton part is bright and level,flnijjn ejccgll^'.condition (on which the omnibus puns sfSQfl'ftjlyl bjit imme diately the Arch Hill sitfe is jan'tered, Mr Phipps's passengers begin to tftlk about "The Rocky Road to Dublin;" in short, the road is full of holes, clustered with bjg stones, and indicates either In dolencp on the part of somebody or a lean exchequer, In wet woatbpr the road is intolerable, and aooldents, unlike f'angejs' visits," are of frequent occurrence, as many persons know to their cost. The following protest has been handed In to the Clerk of the Resident Magistrate's Court in the Licensing Victuallers' interest questioning the validity of the Licensing Committee elections for the city wards, Fijnsbnby and Karangahape: — 1. That potsco of Jhe' time and place of the said elfictfon'agd tho situation of the polling booths was' nojbgiyen withjn the time and in the manneF i'equjrfid fiyV.'Tha Regulation of Local Election* Act, fflß.'i 2. f hat t|>e poll at the said election was open beyond the hours required by the sm Act., 3. ; That Intimidation was used at the sa?4 election to such a degree as to prevent elec tors from polling: thereat. 4. That names of candidates were! omitted from and tho names of persons not candidates were entered ypoh the polling papers at the said election. ' E; That(l) voting papers made and obtained othoywjse than as provided by the sbid'Act wore'put' Jnfo the ballot jpojE.es at' the said' election, and (2) th.it voting papers were taken out of the ballot. boxes at tf>e stii,d (Apcljon otherwise than as provided by th\e said Ant, (jje^by affecting the result of the said election.' p. '£ha£ the Returning' Officer' for the said district was not able to fulfil the duties of his office as such Returning Officer at the said elactjon, and ho 'did' not appoint any substitute to attend tl'w sjjjd election for him. 7. That the Raid election was Jisld and conducted from the commencement; of jbh'e voting t)o the closing of ihe'sa'me without thoro&oyig present any Returning Ojnjcet or his sub stitute.

The crystal ivory type painting of Pro fessor F. A. Brookes is one of the most perfect methods of portrait painting known, as is evidenced by the specimens of the arfc which arc shown in various Queon-streot establishments. Those who wish for "a thing of beauty " which shall also be " a joy for ever" will get their portraits done in this style, which renders the likeness simply indestructible by the lapse oi time. The paintings exhibited are executed from enlarged photographs by Mr Josiah Martin.

At the meeting of the Harbour Board yesterday afternoon leave of absence was granted to Mr Harper for three months and to Mr Walker for a week. On the motion of Mr Lamb it was resolved "That the crane dues, as per bylaws, bo levied for the use of travelling cranes," and (2) " That the Engineer be instructed to prepare an estimate showing the comparative cost of iron screw piles and iron tubular piles, and also as to the durability o{ totara piles, by comparison." The question of instructing the Engineer to prepare plan and estimates of cost of additional width to Hobson-street Wharf, with the view of utilising its western side by leasing same as allotments, was referred to the Works and Tariff Com mittee.

From this port the Ituapahu takes 52 cheese, shipped for London by the Agri cultural and Mercantile Company. The cheese is stored in tho cooling chamber.

Thero was a good attendance at the literary and musical entertainment given in St. James' Hall last evening in aid of the Hall Debt Extinotion Fund. Special in terest attached to the afiair from the fact that the programme was principally comp osed of readings by Mr J. J. Boak who has recently arrived from the Old Country with high recommendations as an elocutionist, having attained the honourable distinction of a gold medallist. The following were tho readings and recitations contributed by Mr Boak :—" The Convict's Escape," " Billy's Rose," "Love in a Balloon," "Phil. Blood's Leap" (a tale of the Goldseefcws), "Jud. Browning's Account of Rubensteins's Piano forte Playing," a humourous Irish tale, and " Nothing to Wear." He also substituted the old Scotch song, " Tho Doors a' Steekit at Half-past Ten " for the reading "Death Bridge of tho Tay." Each piece was most enthusiastically received, and Mr Boak established himself fully in the good opinions of the audience, lie is a clever and versatile elocutionist, who appears to havo made a thorough study of tho art ; which lie professes, and seeing that it is his intention to form elocution classes in Auckland, there can bo but little doubt that his ability will meet witli the practical acknowledgment which it deserves. The musical programme pre sented under the direction of Mr J. G. Culpan, choir-master, was as follows: — Glee, "Tho Ferry Maiden," choir; song, "Tho Friar of Orders Grey," Mr Worrall; duet, " Mnaic and Her Sister Song," Misses McMillan and Mackie ; glee, "TheFairost Flowers" (choir); song, "Josslo, the Flower of Dumblane," Miss MoNaughton ; solo and chorus, "Good-Night, Farewell," Misses Culpan and Maekio rendering the solos. The concort was a great success.

Thero aro two sides to evory story, and a correspondent ("G.H.8.") supplies the ro verso sido to the complaint we made last night of ungallant conduct to a boating party. Ho says: "Wo wore at anchor, hshing, when t hoy pulled round us, making several personal remarks, and the young boys who accompanied them asked ' who that shark was' (meaning a lady who was ono of our party). We should not havo taken any notice had they not persisted in annoying us. Wo gave chaßO,^ thinking it was a party of lads, but on finding there wore laaioß it was my intention to apologise and shovo off again, but had no sooner made preparations to do bo than wo were again assailed by impertinonco, whon ono of our party unshipiHjd' tho rudder." He goes on to complain of tho " disgusting language " used by a young fellow in the other boat, and cautions him to bo more guarded in his speech when ladies are about. From all which it is palpable that discreditable conduct liob boen going on, to which G.H.B.'s party contributed ; arid wo would remind him that " two blacks won't make ono white," oven if tho-second black woro provod. Tho girls and children who occupied tho boat which was molested aro unanimous in tho donial that thoy offered any provocation, and their accusation is that tho conduct of tho lads in the other

boat was disgraceful in tho extreme, and bucli as ordinary street larrikins would scarcely bo guilty of. As this denial has i>oon iuo.li., further proceedings will pro bably bo taken in tho matter.

THE SOUDAN CAMPAIGN.

DECLARATION OF BRITISH POLICY.

[heuter'.s thleokahh.]

London, March 4.

In tho llousn of Commons last night Mr Gladstone, replying to a question, stated that General Graham hod boon ordered to roliovo Tokar, and added that ho had alrondy succossfullyeffocted that movemont. Tho Promior further declared that tho maintenance of tho socurity of Souakim wa* necessary both for peaco and humanity, but that tho town would bo abandoned when the obligations of England in connection with the Soudan had beon fulfilled. Tho Government did not propose to undertake tho occupation of tho Soudan by British troops, and would not sanction any distant expedition into the Interior. The Marquis of Hartington, in answer to a question, admitted that authority had beon granted for the despatch of a British contingent to assist on the Nubian frontier, if necessary.

[SPKCIAL TO I'RESa ASSOCIATION.]

The False Prophet Peacefully Dis posed.

London, Maroh 4,

The Arab Shieks generally have wel comed Major-General Graham's advance, and it is reported that tho El Mahdi is now peacefully disposed. Major - General Graham is likely to advance on Tamduinana, Osman's stronghold.

SPORTING NEWS.

Tho Napier Handloap.

Napier, Tuesday.

The following acceptances were received last night for the Napier Handicap of 500 soys., 1$ milos, run on the 17th March :— . st. lb. St. lb. Leonora .. .. 8 10 Sou'wester ..7 3 Jjeonata .. ..8 4 Nelson ~ ..7 2 Emirßey.. ..7 9 Walpitt .. ..7 2 Tho Poet 7 6 Buzzard .. .. G-ttji Maori .. ..7 5 Kadamca .. ..610 Laird .. .. V fl

SCINTILLATIONS.

Last night of " Olivette." Heavy hailstorm in Dunedin yesterday. Tho University Senate still sits at Ne! son; business routine

12,000 people used Dunedin tram-cars on Cup day. Races are to bo held at Kihikihi on St. Patrick's pay. Wellington Cejpstials contribute £39 17s to the Hospital.

Government House and grounds nrs being set in order for the Governor's visit. At Heathcote, Canterbury, none but temperance candidates were proposed for the licensing Committee. A lad named Braddon, aged 11, was drowned yesterday in the swimming baths at Nelson. Cause, cramp, The birth of a daughter to Major Barker, the Salvation Army leader at Melbourne, is announced as that of " a bonnie Hallelujah lass—a model Salvation Army baby !"

Sir William. F»x yesterday laid the foundation stone of the Young Men's Christian Association new building at Christchuroh, in the presence of a Targe assemblage. The Reserves Committee of Dunedin Cjty Council after conference with the Botanical pomain Board, recommend the Corpqrij,tjop to" take over tljo Botanical Gardens, '■"* ■ " At a final ineafcjng of Glmstcljurch JLjihj. bition Committee, held last night, the balanoo-sheet showed the receipt* to have been £3,002 10a lid, and the oxponses £2,879 168 Bd. » ■ ■■ Yesterday afternoon, at Kaiapoi, Canter bury, an old man named Moorhouse fell off a load of hay and was killed. ;Mv T, S. Foster, M.A., has been elected Chairman of the- Convocation of. New Zea tamj' '■.Uniyersliy' io.r fyp three fiSjfßf'■'!■'■•' ''• '■■'•' m'-. v•■ ' •»: , j • Thierjo af/9 gyer 6Q tons of cheese on hand, at le Awimuftu teotory,' po' thl^t tjie pflm-: pany cani'cUim tl>o yoyernment J>pnus,ipf ■'. JBSOO whenever they pxpert t*>»t. q«anr tity. -: • • ■■• ' -v ■ ;■ ' - . ■ ■ .A Plate Glaea Insurance Company, with a capital of-- £10,000; has beep formed1 in Dunedin.ft Jt jneana to doibuainopa /Ul.over thecofony.,' .'.' . . i.. - . f . i ;

CABLEGRAMS.

[rkdtkb's tfxkoeams.]

The Dynamite Outrages.

London, March 3.—The police have ob tained a clue to the perpetrators of the recent dynamite outrages. Three Ameri cans are believed to be the guilty parties. In the House of Commons to-day, Sir Vernon Harcourt, Home Secretary, announced that orders had been given that rigorous measures should be pursued against any foreign dynamite emissaries who may be arrested. London, March 4.—The Government havo offered a reward of £2,000 for the arrest of the perpetrators of the recent at tempts to wreck the vurious metropolitan railway termini by dynamite

Tho Now Reform Bill.

London, March 4.—The Franchise Bill was road laßt night.

[special to press association.]

(Received March 5, 10.30 a.m.) England and the Congo.

London, March 4.—The English Govern ment have determined to recognise the Portuguese claims on the Congo.

Tho Imperial Federation Question. London, March4.—Speakingatabanquet given in farewell to Sir Hercules Robinson on his departure for the Cape, he strongly advocated the establishment of an Imperial Federal Council. Lord Derby also spoke, expressing doubt as to the expediency of such a thing.

AUSTRALIAN.

(Received March 5, 1.20 p.m.) The Late Steamboat Collision.

Melboorne, thia day.—The Navigation Board has written to the Union Steamship Company requesting that they should arrange for the presonce of witnesses at thu Court of Inquiry into the circumstances attending tho collision between the steam ships Adelaide and Woirarapa, which is to be held here on the return of tho latter vessel.

Adelaide, March 4.—Four more fires, which are declared to have been caused by incendiaries, broke out last night. They wero all, however, extinguished before much damage wasdono.

NEW ZEALAND RIFLE ASSOCIA TION.

YESTERDAYS PROCEEDINGS,

After wo went to press yesterday, the Rifle and Carbino Companies Challenge Matches wero decided.

Rifle Company Challenge lUtcii. To be (lrod (or by ropresontatlvo of Voluntoor oompanios in New Zealand, under tlio fol lowing conditions:—To bo competed (or by teams (rom coinpanios which liavo sub scribed £5 5s to tho funds of the Now Zealand Kifle Association (or the current fear; each team to consist of five members who must have been olllciont on tho 3Ut )ocomber, 1883) o( any Volunteer corps in Now Zealand armed with rifles; ranges— 200, 500, and GOO yards; seven shots per man at each range. JTlrat prize, £30 and Rifle Challenge Cap, to be hold (or one year by tho highest scorer in tlio winning team; second prize, £15; third prize, ti. This match was regarded with a great amount of interest, though many believed that tho Wanganui rifle team, which comprised the champion and several men who had been in tho championship "20," would bo very hard to boat. Tho re sult proved a great surprise, the second team from tho Victoria Hiiloa winning with groat ease. Taylor, tho oaptain of the winning team, takes the cup with the grand score of 84 points. He made five points under tho possible at 200 yards, four under the possible at 500 yards, and ten undor the possiblo at COO. Tho best range score was made by Inglis.. of the Thames Ritlu Hangers—33 at 200 yards. The following are the detailed scores of tho three prize taking teams, and the total scores of the other teams:— 1-VICTORIA RIFLES. AUCKLAND No, 2 TEAM. 200 600 600 TI. Sorgt. Taylor .. ..30 31 25 88 Private Okoy .... 32 29 U 73 Corporal Lee .. ..31 24 18 73 John Haslett .. ..28 20 18 72 W. Itoso 80 19 9 58 Totals .. ..Til ~ii> si "sol 2-VICTORIA RIFLES, No. 1 TEAM. T. Fairs 32 XI 2G 82 J. 11. Uaslett .. .. 30 27 19 76 Handloy 27 25 18 70 K. Cooper .. ..27 I'J 20 6fi H. McLeod .. 20 20 15 01 Totals .. ..~142 115 93 355 3-THAAIKB RIFLE RANGERS. O.Downle .... 27 18 23 C 8 J. Inglis : 3.1 27 7 07 W.Lucas .... 30 17 18 05 A. Thomas .. ..211 26 IB 64 J.Thomas .. ..20 10 13 55 Totals .. ..138 Iftl 77 ~Sli 4. WauKiinulßMee .. ..115 96 77-318 5. Auckland CO., No. 1 ..130 102 75-307 6. Wanganui City Rifle* .. 115 93 71-307 7. Auckland 0.G., No. 2 ..129 80 92-307 8. Wairoa RlflOß 137 97 60-284 Cahiunk Company Ciullecnok Match.—To bo fired (or by representatives of Volunteer companies in New Zealand, under the follow ing conditions:—To bo competed for by teams from companies which have subscribed £5 5s to tho funds of tlio New Zealand Rifle Associa tion for the current year. Kach team to con sist of live members of any Volunteer corps in New Zealand, armed with carbines. Ranges —200,300, and 500 yards. Boven shots per mas at each range. Snider carbines. First prize, £30 ; second, £10; third, £5. In cbis match Auckland was again success ful, tho No. 2 team of tho Auckland Artillory taking the first prize. The cup fallfc to Woolley, who made the score of 80 points. Tho following are the scores :— 1.-AUCKLAND ARTILLERY, No. 2 TEAM. 200 300 500 Tl. Woolloy 31 28 21 80 Webster 30 26 20 76 Roaa 31 19 23 73 Shaw .. .. .. 27 28 18 71 Honderaon .... 27 IS 19 62 Totals • .. .. 146 ~US 101 1(52 B.—THAMES NAVAL ARTILLERY, No. 1 TEAM. P. Weir 24 23 26 73 Lukcy 28 25 19 72 Floyd *7 27 18 72 G. Gill 27 19 23 C 9 11. Brownleo .... 30 17 20 67 Totals .. ..136 111 106 *353 3.-AUCKLAND ARTILLERY. No. 1 TEAM. i 801 l 31 25 27 83 Lumsdon 29 . 24 21 74 W. S. Trayos .... 27 20 18 65 Parslow 2J 20 20 63 A.Payno.. .. .. 23 17 17 57 Totals .. ..~133 ~100 ~103 ~342 4. Wellington Art., No. 2 .. 129 108 103—310 5. Wellington Naval, No. 2.. 138 110 91—538 6. Wellington Naval, No. 1 ..133 93 105-330 7. Thames Naval, No. 2 ..125 91 108-824

This match terminated the 1884 meeting of tho N.Z.R.A. We have to acknowledge the courtesy of tho officials of tho Associa tion, and can bear testimony to their thorough efficiency. Mr Stevens' is a host in himself, and the manner in which he evolves order from a chaos of figures is astonishing. The utmost good feeling prevailed amongst the competitors, and the. only cause for complaint; was the careless marking on the first days of the meeting. Dinner to Carbine Representatives.

The Auckland Artillery will entertain the carbine representatives at dinner this even ing at the Auckland Hotel.

Distribution of Prizes.

The distribution of prizes will take place this evening at the Theatre Royal.

MINING NEWS.

[BT TETjEPJIAPH,— QV/H CQnnRSPPNDENT.]

Thahks, this day, Thames Golden CROwir.-^The monthly cleaning-up for this Company gave the pay able return of 1330z5. Mdwts, of gold ob tained from 150 tons of quartz.

Moanataiari.—Tributes : Williams ob tained 12ozs. 2dwtß. from lGlbs of picked stone ; George crushed one ton for a yield of Cozs.; Rowe 2 tons for 3ozs. 17dwts. ; and Carter 8 tons for 17ozs. 17dwts. of gold. '" Waiqtahi.— The return for the month is 31Qozs. gdvvts, pf melted gold from .185 tons of general stuff. '~ "',' Cahsppjjiak LfiW L.EyEr,.—The dfatance driven by the rock drill in exactly a week is 42 feot, which must be considered a most satisfactory-rate of progreßß. A reef about 2 feot thick, composed of rubbly quartz, has been passed through. , , Deep Levjbi, Cross.—Crushing has been interrupted by. alterations to the battery, a new stamper,-bQX being in course of erection. ' MARujEB.-rrDriving has been commenced at !Nfc.'#%elpn No, 4 reef, which,if. about i jncbee jjf'tbJck^^Jjas.Bhown colour* of gcl4* j.. I. -' ! ' ,■ • ">■' *< ' ■' New Manojcap.—AbputlOlb picked stons were .secured ibis, mpnung in .th(i : stapes »t the j Rnqtion of. No, 2 re.el <W* feanging^wall leader., . „;,,.,; . , ~,,., '.

THE S.S. RUAPEHU.

Banquet by the Directors.

Thk directors of the New Zealand Shipping Company entertained a large and influen tial company of gentlemen identified with the commerce and shipping of the city at dinner on board the «.s. Ruapehu last night. The main saloon was lit up with the electric light, the tables were sumptuously laid, and the banquet was Bervod in superb style. A choice and ample menu was presented, embracing such delicacies as English game and dainty titbits of colonial frozen meat, while the wine carte comprised brands of select vintages, with plenty of ice manufactured by the apparatus on board. Impey's Engineer Band was stationed at the entrance to the saloon.and discoursed v capital selection of instrumental mueic throughout the evening. The dinner was prepared on board. Mr Murray-Aynsley (Chairman of Co.'a Directors) occupied the chair, while Dr. Campbell acted as croupier. Captain Crutchley, of the Ruapehu, presided at the next table, with Mr J. Anderson, of Christchurch (one of the directors) officiating as croupier. The other side tables were presided over respectively by Messrs John Studholm, and A. Cracroft Wilson (directors), and Gibbs (Secretary), of the Company. There were also present: —Sir F. Whitaker, Captain Oldham (H.M.S. Lark), His Worship the Mayoi (Mr R, Waddel), Mr L D. Nathan (Chair man of the Chamber of Commerce), Mr C. B. Stone (Chairman -of the Harbour Board), Mr Griffin (U.S. Consul), Mr T. Hill (Collector of Customs), Hon. 11. Chamberlain, Hon. D. Pollen, Ms.L.C, Messrs Tolo, Hurst, Dargavillo, Peacock, M's.H.R., Messrs D. B. Cruickshank (local agent for Shaw, Savill and Co.), P. A. Philips (Town Clerk), T. Henderson, jun. (local agent for Union Steamship Co.). J. Batger (local Secretary to N.Z. Shipping Co.), 6. P. Pierce, B. Ireland, J. Coates, W. J. Burton, C. B. Grierson, J. Edson, G. Traquair, F. Larkins. P. Ireland, D. 11. Mckenzie, J. B. Thomson (Superintendent of Police), T. Ching, J. Chambers, H. B. Morton, A. Heather, N. Harker, J. B. Francis, J. M. Clark, J. Stewart, J. Nan carrow, J, M. Brigham (Secretary of Har bour Board), \V. Berry, T. Morrin, C. C. McMillan, W. McMillan (of Sydney), Samuel Browning, J, Murray, J. Robor ton, H. Brett. Besides Captain Crutchley, the following officers of the ship were present:—Mr Cross, Ist officer; Mr Baxter, 2nd officer; Dr. Moore, surgeon ; Mr Wil liams, purser; and Mr Henderson, chief engineer. After full justice had beon done the various courses of the banquet, the toasts of "The Queen," "The Prince of Wales and Royal Family," "The Governor," and " Army, Navy, and Volunteers " were given from the chair, and duly honourad. Captain Oldham, of H.M.S. Lark, re sponded to the toast on behalf of the Navy. Ho said that as one of the most important services in which, during this utilitarian age, naval officers were employed was surveying and accurate charting, some information in regard to their operations might not be deemed unacceptable, Tho Admiralty had men-of war at Corea, Japan, India, West Indies, the Straits of Magellan, and the Solomons, etc., for the purpose of correcting charts, whilo other officers were similarly em ployed in hired vessels, in addition to tho officors undor engagement to the Indian Government. Tho Government of Japan, a lovely and romantic country, which might be termed tho New Zealand of the Northern Hemisphere, had lent great assist ance, and much valuable data had beon compiled. After a few general remarks, Captain Oldham expressed thanks for the manner in which tho toast had boon honoured, and then resumed his seat amid loud applause, Mr J. M. Clark responded on behalf of the Army and Volunteers. The English army, he paid, had always done its duty bravely, and of late years in Afghanistan and in Egypt it had worthily upheld its ancient traditions. In tho Soudan he hod no doubt that it would similarly distinguish itself. Ho had been a volunteer since 1857, in company with His Worship the Mayor and Mr Batger, so that he could speak with some authority of that branch of the ser vice The movement had been inaugurated under considerable discouragement, but it had so steadily progressed in efficiency that few people wore now inclined to deny that it was certain to bs of most material service to England in time of war. The officers wero the weak point in tho system, but that was being remedied, and so also was tho oommissariat. Now Zealand was the first part of tho British dominions in which the Volunteers had to engage in activo servico, and they had abundantly proved their worth. They would never again, however, he was glad to think, be employed in this colony for the purposes of internal dofence.

Tho Chairman proposed tho toast of "The General Assembly." Ho said that fenerally, the members wero actuated by a igh sonso of duty, and ungrudgingly gavo of their time and abilities to the service of their country. He had on his right an ox- Premier who had grown grey in legislative service, and whose great talents had just beon fittingly recognised by tho Imperial Government—Sir Frederick Whitakor. Jle greatly regretted tho absence of b'ir G. M. 'Rorke, under whom ho had had tho good fortune to sit for moro than one session. He had much pleasure in giving tho toast, coupled with tho names of Sir Frederick Whitaker and Mr Tole.

Sir Frederick Whitaker responded on bolialf of the Legislative Council. He applauded tho mombers of that body for the very liberal mannor in which thoy dis charged their high functions. Their principal duty ho said was not to initiate legislative experiments, but to determine how far new measures should bo resisted and kept back for further consideration, for in the end it was well known that tho popular will must prevail. This was the most democratic country under the sun, and the people, as was but right and proper, exer cised tho paramount authority. As for tho House of Representatives, its members wero near the expiration of their term of office, and if they had not done their duty they would assuredly be turned out. Ho feared no such general result, however, for the bulk of tho members would be found to have well deserved tho trust reposed in them.

Mr J. A. Tole, M.H.R. for Eden, in re sponding for tho House of Representa tives, expressed regret at tho absence of tho Speaker, Sir G. M. O'Rorke. He claimed for the House to which he belonged tho premier position in tho Australasian colonies for despatch of busi ness, freedom of debate, and decorum of manner. After alluding to his position as an Opposition member, and giving utter ance to tho hope that his party would be successful in unseating the Government next session, Mr Tolo concluded by express ing his gratification at tho success of tho New Zealand Shipping Company, and by praising its onterpriso in inaugurating a splendid line of steamship?, of which the Kuapohu was so fitting a representative. In response to loud calls, Mr J. M. Darga villb, M.H.R. for City West, rose. Ho re marked that he had very little to say on behalf of the General Assembly, inasmuch .aa a large proportion of its members deserved but slight recognition. Last session the Assembly assumed to know more than'the Company. For while the latter ap plied for a.largo subsidy, the Assembly was sliuSfcly of opinion that a moderate subsidy would!and ought to,su/lico. This opinion was now fortified by the .institution of a magnificont lino of Bteamships so spoil nfter euchadecision. Ho heartily wishodthoCom pany every success. That insMdctiyo anti pathy to monopoly, which pre4oniinate4 in every British heart doubtless prompted the action, taken last session jn regard to tho Company, but, still he belipved ho echoed the sentunent of every true JJey ;Jseatandor when ho wishod the Company complete and unqualified sucoess if) its plucky, enterprise. (Applause.) . Mr W. J, Hurst, M.H.R. for Waite mata, also replied. Ho folt sure that tho province of Auckland had.largeness of heart enough to desire every success to corpora tions such as the New Zealand Shipping Co. and tho Union Company, hailing from the South though thoy did. They wero a credit to the colony, and wero deserving of every support. Mr Peacock, M.H.R. for City North, assured those present that the. General Assembly was deeply interested in every thing that affected the prosperity of New Zealand, and'consequently pould not fail to appreciate the entprprise'an.dplupk'pf 'this New Zealand Shipping ponipany, whjph was doi.ng gp mufih to facilitate speedy communication between the colony arid the mother., country. He admired the detoi-r minutioft of, the directors to outrun all rivalry, and ; wished them an abundant measure of,sucflOßs,, (Applause.) Mr Anderson, of Cbristchurch, proposed the. toast ;of>,';.Th'9, Mayor, and Cor poration." „ He , ; said..: that ', ho' . was ft comparative stranger to the .city, and hod only recently made tho'acqiiaiiitance of the Mayor, but he. had been told, and fully

believed, that Auckland was especially fortunate in its selection of its Chief Magistrate and its Councillors. _ The, citizens had made a wise and judicious choice, and were excellently served. He was pleased to notice after a five years' absenco that the stylo of street architecture had greatly improved, and that there wns a decided increase in the ovidences.of material prosperity. His Worship the Mayor returned thanks. It would be a waste of time, he said, to dwell upon the past, and as for the present the directors of the Company had doubtless taken stock of it; while, so far as regarded the future, he would not trouble them with many vaticinations. The City Council had a loan to expend, and as each ward was served by active Councillors, there need be no apprehension that the loaves and fishes would not be fairly divided, and the money expended to as great ad vantage as possible. The appearance of the city was rapidly being beautified, and great attention was also being paid to permanent works. He hoped that the prosperity of Auckland would be such that an, alternate service with other cities would ere long fail to satisfy its requirements, and that it would demand a monthly service for itself. (Loud applause.) Mr John Studholme gave the toast of "The Auckland Harbour Board." As a New Zealander he felt proud to know that the colony possessed such a grand harbour as that of Auckland, and he was glad to perceive that it was so well looked after by its Harbour Board. Auckland had great and exceptional advantages in its proximity to the Soutli Sea Islands, in its position upon the great water-way of traih'c that tho Panama Canal would open up, and in its genial climate. As a Can terbury man, he had no hesitation in recognising and appreciating all these ad vantages. He hoped that they would be turned to the best account.and, judging from the energy that the people of Auckland had displayed in the past, he had no fear for the future. In conclusion, ho had much plea sure in commending the toast, coupled with tho name"of Mr C. B. Stone (Chairman ef the Harbour Board).

Mr C. B. Stone replied. After apologis ing for his lack of oratorical ability, he mentioned that at the meeting of the Har bour Board that afternoon plans wero sub mitted for a tee to the Kailway Wharf for the special usoof ocoan-going steamers such as the Ruapoliu. He was glad to see the now line of "steamships heralded by such a magnificent vessel as the Ruapehu. In allusion to Mr Studholme's remarks, he might say that although nature had done much for Auckland Harbour, the Harbour Board had not by any means been negligent of its duty. It had done its utmost to raiso the port to its present prond position as the premier port of the colony, and it would stand comparison with any similar body in the colonies. (Applause.) Mr A. Cracroft Wilson proposed " Tho Commercial Interests of Auckland." Ho said that at present the city presented tho spectacle of being the most prosperous district of the colony, and he gladly recog nised tho fact. The city had passed through many and great vicissitudes. She hod sustained a loss by the removal of the seat of Government, and another blow had been struck at her by tho withdrawal of the tr»ops, following upon which came a lengthened period of commercial and in dustrial depression. Now, however, she had emerged from all these troubles, and was making rapid progresa on a career of prosperity. Gold in payable quantities was obtained in the province. Its forests pro vided timber unsurpassed in any portion of the world, and its sailing vessels carried ite merchandise throughout the myriad isles of the Pacific. (Cheers.)

Mr L. D. Nathan (Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce) acknowledged the toast. In doing so he dwelt upon the extension of tho shipping trade of Auck land, and in this connection mentioned that locally-owned ships traded to London, Now York, China, Japan, Mauritius, the South Sea Islands, and he might say to all parts of the world. He had great pleasure in complimenting the directors of the New Zealand Shipping Company upon their enterprise and liberality, and wished them the success they so well deserved. Stimu lated by their rivalry, Shaw, Savill and Co. were even now contemplating a fortnightly service, so that between the two the colony wo-ild be woll served. He trusted that the competition would not be carried too far, however.

Dr. Campbell proposed the toast of "The Shaw, Savill Company, Pacific Mail Company, and Union Steamship Company." He complained of the difficulty of doing full justice to his tripartite toast, and therefore craved, indulgence from his hearers. As for the Pacific Mail Com pany, its splendid steamships performed the mail service with express punctuality, but ho trusted that the time would era long arrive when the subsidy would terminato on account of the commerce and passenger trafHc proving all-sufficient. As for the Union Steamship Company, ho might sum up a string of eulogies by saying in ono sentence that it was tho envy of the Australasian Colonies. The firm of Shaw, Savill, and Co. had served tho colony well in times gone by ; it ljad improved its ser vico with the advance of the ag2, and even now it was strong and enterprising enough to hqld its own against all competitors. ■Mr D. B. Cruickshankacknowledged tho toast on behalf of Shaw, Savill, and Co. He said that tho coupling in ono toast of such diverse ami rival interests was characteristic of that manly feeling of fair play which found favour everywhere under tho British Hag. While agent for the Shaw, Savill, and Albion' Company, he might also afiirm that as a colonist ho felt pleased at tho progress of tho New Zealand Shipping Company, and ho willingly conceded them tho honour that was unquestionably their duo in being the first to establish a steam service botweon London and this country. (Cheers.) For tho enterprise and pluck they had shown they wero worthy of all praise. When the general question of direct steam was under discussion during the last parliamentary session, one of their members was bold enough to affirm that ho was a strong believer in monopolies. He could not say that ho endorsed that member's sentiments. Speaking for him self, he must say he not would like to see the freight and passenger carrying between New Zealand and Great Britain in the hands of any ono firm. (Hoar, hear.) Believing, as he did, that those who were at the head ef the two companies now trading wero men of undoubted ability—men who would not bo likely to spend vast sums of money in building such steamers as the Ruapehu, for instance, without having first satisfied themselves that the growing requirements of the colony justified-them in doing so— then ho thought they who were reaping the benefit might take it for granted that there was room tor both companies, not only to live, but to flourish ana pay good dividends to the shareholders. He for ono wished them both evory success. If there was a rivalry or keenness existing—so long as it was of an opon, manly kind—it was only what they had to expect nowadays in all branches of business. Certainly the import ing and travelling public had nothing to lose buteverythingtogainbyhonesteompetition. Hocouldassurehis hearers thatthe managers of Shaw, Savill & Co. were anxious to work cordially and in a kindly spirit with their New Zealand rivals, so long as the interests of the public were not prejudiced. Mr Tiros. Henderson replied for the Union Steamship Company. He said that tho directors of that Company were very sensible of the hearty support accorded them by the public of Auckland and of the colony at large—asupportwhichhad enabled the Company in eight years to amass a fleet of,2G first-class vessels, with an aggregate value of over £700,000. No one, not even the most sanguine, could have anticipated that the Company would have attained such magnitude in so shprt a space of time. He concluded by recommending the Harbour Board to improve the ■wharfage accommo dntion of tho port, which, was rather in sufficient at present for its growing nocossi itW- .• \ :;■-.,■ ■

Mr Dargaville, M.H.R., apqjqgised for tl]6 abaencp of Mr (janibio (agpnt for the Pacific Mail Company), who had, he said, been so staggered by his visit to the Jtiiapehu that ho had boon confined to his jioiisp ever sinco. (Laughter.) ■Mr Griffin, U.S. Consul, also responded. He did not know that, ho had a right to speak, seeing that the Government which he had tho honour to represent had done so little for the Pacific Mail. Steamboat Com pany ; but then, on the other hand, he felt l that such companies should bo independent altogether of State aid. ..That they could and did' prospor without it, both tho .Pacific Mail Company and the Now Zealand (Shipping ,Company sufficiently attested. A.few years ago if it had..been said that this colony would soon be placed in direct steam communication with Europe, it .would not Haye been believed, least of all tjiat suoh a splendid line q?.steamers would'bp estab lished as those which coijinosp tlie New ySealand Shipping Company's Roats, of which jhg Ruapphuwas a type. Curing jus repent visit South he saw pveiy where, the plflmsnts of prosperity,, large herds, of cattlo and floods, of Bheep, and.alap vast fields of .wheat; and.jvhen he thought of the multi plying blades, of grass arpj stalks of grain— jthoso bannors of peace ip green and gold—he knew afc.pnce that the people of New Zea land had not over-estimated the resources and capabilities of this colony in subscrib

ing so liberally for the support and perpe« tuation of the direct steam service with Europe. He hoped that a similar line of steamers would soon be established between Auckland and San Francisco and other American ports. He had been assured by Southern merchants that already the ex ports from America had increased tenfold since the inauguration of the direct service, and that it was-now unnecessary to trans ship goods at Sydney and Melbourne. Sir Frederick Whitaker proposed " Success to the New Zealand Shipping Company." He said that, while an old colonist, he had also been a great traveller, and he could fully appreciate the splendour and commodiousnesM of this steam service which had just been established by com paring it with the very rude means of transit that were obtainable in the early days of the colony. When he came out from Eng land it took 123 days to get to Sydney, and 17 days more were consumed in sailing from that port to New Zealand. He had occasion to travel up and down the coast a great deal, and as there were no passenger vessels at the time, he procured for his own purposes a small vessel of 12 tons burthen named the Emma, which a friend, however, re-christened the Donkey. He had simply to compare hia remembrance of liis Donkey of those days with such magnificent vessels as the Wairarapa, To Anau, the Zealaudin, and the Ruapehu to appreciate the vast progress which had been made. He defended the encouragement which ho and others in the Legislature last session pro posed to extend to this Company, but at any rate he was glad to see that the Com pany had striven to do without it. All that they had wanted to give it was the advantage of Government freights for twelve months, in consideration of it being tho very first to establish a service of this character and description. He asked whether that was an unreasonable thing Under the circumstances. He would say nothing whatever in depreciation of any rival company, because he had himself no interests in one company or the other, or ever had any. All he was anxious to see was that they prospered and carried on the trade now commenced, not only to the ad vantage of the colony, but to their own sufficient remuneration; because he felt sure that if they did not make this service pay the colony must suffer, because the serVico must cease. The question simply came to this, whether we were in a position to maintain such a service as we are at present enjoying. We had one already established, and we were promised that the other one would be in operation in a very short time. Personally, he feltconfident that New Zealand was capable of maintaining such a service. So far as the frozen meat industry waß concerned, he was convinced of its success, notwithstanding the combina tion of vested interests to put it down. They should not be disheartened, for the cloud now looming over the industry would soon pass away, and witli its disappearance and the ' consequent inauguration of an era of prosperity, the Ship ping Company would largely benefit. He reminded his hearers that the Panama Canal would be an eventuality of the near future, and that prosperity to New Zealand, and to Auckland especially, must inevitably attend its completion. As for theShaw-Sayill Company, he admitted that it hod done the colony good service, but the New Zea land Shipping Company for all that deserved the best thanks of colonists for breaking down a monopoly that boded no good, intro ducing wholesome competition and inau gurating a service which was destined to be of the greatest service to the colony. The toast was drunk with cheers. }

The Chairman- replied. He said that the Company had started with a determina tion to spare no effort to overtake the requirements of the colony, and to antici pate itß desires. With the progress of its commerce, they hod seen the necessity for a direct steam service with England, and they knew that the colonists would not be satisfied with anything short of first class boats. When the directors found that they hod tho support of the Govern-' ment and the mercantile community, they at once decided to meet the requirements of the trade. They sent off a telegram to charter steamers to be put on the line so as to have a direct monthly service. They also ordered three steamers to be built. Two of these steamers had already arrived at Southern ports. The third one was here in Auckland (cheers), and the directors had come here to invite the mercantile com munity to inaugurate her career. (Cheers.) They were building two more, each of 500 tons additional tonnage, for a monthly service. Shaw, Savill and Co; were also building steamers for a monthly ser vice. The colony in a short time there fore might have a fortnightly service. The New Zealand Shipping Company, he hoped, would have here the largest and swiftest steamers in any colony—steamers which would add very much to the published rij- ■ turns of the colonial steamers of the world. _ They knew that it was no use to put on; small steamers, or steamers of old date.. They must go with tho time, or perhaps a little ahead of the time, and they therefore resolved'ta have the best boats they could : get. The order was given to John JSlder $ Co., whose name was a guarantee that the work would be turned out in a manner that would prove most satisfactory to the colony. The charter bojjts were stjl} run ning, but they hoped by the end of the . year to have all their own steamers running- They know that to be successful; they must be able to compote with the vessels of Aus tralia, so that the public would get their. | goods in equal timo as the people of Aus.-. tralia got theirs. By starting a direct line of steamers they hod. shown that this could bo done. So far their steamers had given great satis-, faction, for no less than 4,573 passongers had patronised them already. They recog nised the fact that their interests were bound up with the prosperity of the colony, and they would do all they could to promote its advance. Vessels were being alternately despatched to the ports of the North and tho South, but Lyttclton was the, de parture port, and also the coaling depOt. The Mayor had said that Auckland wanted a monthly service of its own in preference to snaring in an alternate service, and the directors would be proud to supply th,at want as soon as the encouragement extended to them justified the step. They did pot want to I interfere with the San Francisco line, but to run alternately, and so colonists would have a fortnightly mail. We got our mails' sometimes two a week, and then we were a fortnight without any moil. He hoped the Government would support them by , sending Home instructions for a fortnightly, mail, if possible. They had shown by the way their'steamers had run that they could perform that service. He pointed to the fact that the service was now being done under 40 days, and he entertained the hspo that when tho Panama Canal waß open the time would be shortened to 30 days. (Applause.) n Sir J. M. Clark proposed the- health of '■ Captain Crutchley. lie felt sure that the gentleman would be able to hold his own both in the saloon and on the quarter-deck, and thus contribute very largely to the pleasure of his passengers. He was also confident that as a seaman he would dis play the sailorly qualities of energy, deci sion, and firmness, and be found equal to any emergency. He knew that he would make the Ituapehu a success. Drunk with musical honours. ■ ■ -

Captain Crutchlev replied. He said that his fii-Ht visit to Auckland was made twenty years ago, as a youngster on his maiden voyage. The city was then a place for strangers to fall down in at nights, and to lose their shoes in its streets. It nad changed &o greatly since that lie did not. recognise a binglo feature cf it now, and ho was pleased at its undoubted prosperity. Hp complimented tho colonists upon th.w pluck i.i starting a line of such magnificent steamers than which ho boldly declared none better sailed out of, the port of London Even among tho great vessels which floated upon tho Thames, tho Kuapehu and her sister ships 'n-erp.sights to,cpme to se^eandto admire., Ho cordially, returned thank* fp.r the toast on behalf of h,itnseif »n 4 .brptjiep officers. (Appl»uso). ~' " ,'.".., Mr GiBBS (Secretary of'the Company) gave tho toast of "The Ladies" in,,a neat speeoh, and Mr W. J. Burtoa rosponded, while "The fress" was proposed by Mr John Batger,, and responded to by Mr Henry Brett (Stae), and Mr W. Berry ("Herald.") . / '

The proceedings came to a close at 11.15 p.m. ... i . 'i

THE AFTERNOON PARTY

This afternoon an At Home was held on board of, the. Uuapohu, and' proved a vary pleasant gatherings 'About nine- himareis were present, and notwithstanding thWlarj^S minibei; there iwas amble Jaccbmm'ocWtloii fqr.all, bo extensive aretliearrahgeknpnts'pf the steamer so far as rpo;n and comfort .i? ponpernpd,. The guests , commenced tp Arrive about %-cc o'clsck, an(i were court ieou,sly receivfid.,at ,the, gangway by.tJ»B paptaln and his.pfficors. The Ipllowing is a Jist of the invited guests, nearly all of whom attended :— . ; Mr and Mrs^H. R Andoreon and Miss Andor so"..^^^^ H. Atkinson, Mr and Mrs C. Atkm, Mr and Mrs G. Alokln, Mr end MrsK. Arthur, Mr and Mrs A. Aitken, Professor an&

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 1884,



Special Advertisements. /h!h.sM!l_h\ 0)1 808 ICD SECURE SOME SHARES . . IN HERBERT H. SMITH'S GRAND ART UNION OF PANORAMA . ■* J}t6o-Valued at-filso Consisting; of 81-Unlal Lantern and nearly 1000 Vlowa, with all appliances for exhibiting in a largo hall or drawing-room. Also will be given » aW|^VEN KCIiIPSB COTTAGE STOVES, Valued at £50. 1 SHARES ' 1 S. ONE SHILLING. Is. T>ANAMA HOUSE, NELSON. PATRONIBEO BY H.R.H. THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH. 1 The above well-known family BOARD INS-HOUSE has recently been >«Meeoratcd r and Newly Furnished, andwill be r e --o,, ned • under new OMum^frf 1 Viß'tor&b**" will find the comforts and offered at this establishment -—^"Urfunsurpassed in the colony. Proprietor: TVVD. M -mt-;n R NJ.—Smoking and Bath Rooms. .'-IT AWEIA. X AW HI A. 1 NIL DESPERANDUM RESTAURANT. Meal* .....Is. L. K. VAIL — Proprietor— L. K. VAIL. Land and General Commission Agent. GOVERNOR BROWNE HOTEL, HOBBON-STKEET. f Board and Lodging .. .. .. 20s per Week 8to?16Room ■.. .. 25aporWeefc WELLEBL?, V HOUSE, WEIXESLKY-BT., AUCKLAND (Three doors west from Hobson-stroet) BOARD AND RESIDENCE. A Go-)d Table kept; lofty and well-ventilated Bedrooms. Plunge and Shower Baths; and every convenience to ensure tho comfort of Boarders and Visitors. Terms, JJlpor week. M. MASON (Jatp q( Wellington), Proprietress. -VTT ANTED KNOWN, JUST UNPACKED AT Sterlino <&>ld and" Silver Watches and Jewellery, Sheffield CuTMRT. (specially Manufactured and Stamped, " Wtt London Arcade"), Tea Trays, Waiters &o..4es£ap), More Noveltlesiii Japanjsbb Goods, Terra Cottaware and Figures, • _ , Majolicawarb (some Hoyely goods), ■ Plush Brackets and PnoTO. FiUmeb Modbl'Steamdoats itad Ejsoineb, ABHANTEB HAMMOCKS. CONSTANT NOVELTIES BTCKO RECEIVED, CONSTANT NOVELTIHS HKINU HKOKIVKD. t The ordinery Stock fa so coraprohonaiye gad , extensive, it will -well repay an inspxc tion, which we coßWAiiy invite. r THE AUCK />T) FOR ■ \^*"iIELEOTING A PRESENT, <*\ AND AT WELLINGTON and CHRISTCHURCH. •jnrr ;" A\" N T E ft TO DISPOSE OF BALANCE OF LKASB ' of HOUSE IN ALBHBT PARK, WITH I ' FURNITURE; tea', " '- ;; • ABITSTANDB^, ~.. :-,:.. ■ All particulars on application to BOX 88, POST-OFFICE. |P r a z i n g; Horses taken for Grazing at Kohlmaranw. Also, : To Let, a good Cottage at Kohiraamma. Rent nominal to a steady man who would look after AmS Cto John Mains or P. H, Bctrrx, New. Zealand Stnd and Pedigree Stock Company, Z~" EALANDIA BOUQUJBT, THE NATIONAL PERFUME. The Sweetest and most Enduring Handkar yMS^,Su?eTb^Biiißffib & CO.. Auckland. ► nKAPE JUICE SALINE. This Saline l omtt a sparkling draught equal to any natural or artificial water, which rendera It esuedaUy valuable .to travellers in warn} StafatX ft reUeves Headache and Sickness, aUftys Febrile Symptoms,andaffiwdslinmediate relief iv all simple Derangements of Stomach. I Tt 'will ho found exceedingly valuable in, t Pnrifrinx the Blood and Cooling the System, • ao<3 tVi'.Tire-ventingtioseunpleasantEnipUoM and IJimpica so -common to many at the chango, o£ tho seasons. In Bottles, stoppered and cased i Jto Ed.—F. C. BHA W;T.AXD, Apothecaries' HalL \ BOSELINB fob the HAIR.—-This ele- ■ i pant preparation completely eclipses! ' .every article of a similar fc&d j»o,w before, Sdl^ubtoJ-Price. l«8d a. botUe.-SHABLAND.i ■ApofiiecaTieß'Hal t ' ffiOOTHACHECURE — liistantaneouß , 1 Reltef-ODONTALGIC-U per botOe. ---> if c. HHARLAND (opposite Pont-ofilce). 1 t "n (AT B I RAT 8 1 RATS I-U(rf JV SHABLANiys PHOSPHOR PASTS" Rata cat itgrcradlly, middle J no smell. Price, One BhlUtog a Bottle. iff. G. BHARLAND pppoajte Poatofflce. . $r\V.'. ARNOIiB'B PENNY ROYAL 3L/ -Al^aiMKlCPn^— Themoßtpopnlar I .BUdleino of ttwiajr. Price, fcfld abox.-Colo. inial Agent +.■€. Soabljind, opposite the Post- C-' JBfflca.-'■.,...,'., /■•'■:■; :'■■: ,J.i,'i"'^^ i&V&EGRBTTHKaENSBd* Jp6WJP^R.^Tha ■'■ >Jj iiost and-most .rollabla to lie market In itwrtorated canisters. Price.'ls fid. —K. O. SSHAiaAND, Apotheoorloß-HaU.



Special Advertisements. DR. P H I. L S O N, Late District Snrgeon, Attends from 10 a.m. to 1 o'clock p.m., AND DR. J. H. HONEYMAN From 11 a.m. to 1 o'olock p.m., at Aickin'b, THE PHARMACY Queen-street. AUCKLAND GAS COMPANY (LIMITED), ESTABLISHED 1862, PURVEYORS OF LIGHT, HEAT, AND POWER, The Company sell and erect gas-fittings, in cluding gaa apparatus and gas-power engines Stock includes Otto Gaa Engines.—Office and Show-rooma. Fort-street. E N D E RS WANTED For the Whole of the Stock of MENd AND BOYS' CLOTHING AND MERCERY OF THE NEW ZEALAND TWEED COMPANY. It is quite New, not being more than ten months old. The Men's and Boys' Clothing has been Manufactured at theKaiapol Faotory.and Tenders will close on MONDAY, 10th inst. Special. We respectfully invite Public A Mention to the following BARGAINS: 600 Dozen Flax Shirts, lined backs, Is6d, were Ss6d 500 Trousers and Vests, 12s Sd, worth 18s 6d 10 Cases Printed Mole Trousers, 6a Hi 60 Dozen Men's Felt Hats, 2s fid 60 Boxes White Dress Shirts, 3s 6d 100 Dozen Felt Hate, 2s Gd 5,000 Yards Nun's Vellipg at Is 10,000 Yards All-wool Flannel at Is 500 Pairs Super Blankets, All Wool, 12s M. The Public must not overlook the advantage in selecting from an Entirely New Stock, and the fact that we offer none but Reliable Goods. J. CoSGRAVE&Co. BA L AM C E of- W. MEREDITH'S BANKRUPT STOCK! BANKRUPT STOCK! AND A LARGE LOT OF JOB LINES. TO BE CLEARED AT REMARKABLY LOW PRICES, AT W|* -RRIDGMANU . Jti JjRIDCJMANU Dress Goods in great variety, 12yds for 2s 6d, Ss 6d, Is6d' Balance Summer Stock of Prints, 2Jd, 3Jd, 4Jd, 6Jd '"> I '' i Strong Cotton Shirtings, 3Jd, 4M, 5Jd White and Grey Calico at wholesale prlco 20 Ludios' Leather Bags, half-price, from Is 6d Ladles Underclothing much under usual price Strong Cotton Tweed for Boys, slightly damaged, Is yd > Boys' and Youths' Tweed Trousers, from Ss 9d 20 Men's Strong Tweed Coats, 7s 6d 20 Men's Strong Tweed Trousers and Vesta, 7s lid, 10s 9d,12s Gel Boys' Serge Sailor Suits, 4s lid Large Stock of Men's Tweed Suits, 19s 6d, 18a Od, 2is Men's Tweed Hats, Is, la 8d Boys' and Youths' Serge Hats, Is Gd Riuh Hats, 2Jd eaoh Linoleum and Floorcloths considerably less then regular prises. LOT OF REMNANTS J»D JOB LINES. EXCEPTIONALLY GOOD VALUE. WILLLIAM R. BRIDGMAN, JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUBK. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUBH. U7HRRK SHALL I VVUNISH MY HOVBE FROM? THE CHKAPKBT in. ROUND HOUSE TO FURNISH FROM IS THJS CITY TTAT.T ARCADE- • GARLICK & CRANWELL ! ! IRON BEDSTEADS, (to to GARLICK & ORANWEI&. BEDDING' up to GARLICK & CRANWELL. BED-ROOM FURNITURE, go to GARLICK & CRANWELL. CARPETS, go to GARLICK & CRANWELL. ■ UARIJCK & ORANWELL, House Furnishers. GARLICK & CRANWELL, Upholsterers. GARLICK & CRANWELL, * . i Manufacturers ov all kinds op furniture, Cheap Tapestry & Brubbel Carpets. Chkap Oilcloths & Linoleum. Dhkap & Beautiful Cretonnes, "iikap Blankets & Curtainh. GARLICK & CBANWELL, HOUSE FURNISHERS City Hall Arcade. qcben-stbebt, AUCKLAND NOyELTIEC< O y E L T IE O. ■EX 8.8. DORjIC. MILNE AND CHOYCE .; Have just Opened Several Cases .of Novelties, including— VERY HANDSOME SASH RIBBONS FANCY LACE BOWS FANCY UX3E TIES , OPERA WBAP3 MOB CAPS PLASTRONS, for street and evening weir \ KERCHIEFS, New and Fancy Designs LA.CRB, including Coloured Beaded Laces and tlio Mew Flouncing Lace GOLD BRAIDS . : VELVETEENS, the new Twill Baett. Milne & Choycb, QUEEN-STREET., •rrO NS 0N B V TIN ETA R D GRAPES. CRAPES. GRAPES. " ,"'"- Wholesale and RotalL 1"; THOMAS BTEADMAN & CO., -; .. ~;'« Seed Morohante, . ■ Next to Mr Wiaeman's, Queen-Btreet. XX aR A M AN D 6 0., ENGINEERS AND MACHINERY FITTERS. Contraotors for Every Description of Faotobb - FrmNO, PArTKiw Makoto. Castinos, Turnino, Pub ScßKwnia, fco.. So. All WOODWORK in Cokkbotioh with Machinery Made. - i Plans Prepared and Estimates Given. Aokntb for AH Descriptions of AMERICAN Lubbioattvo Oils, &o. Office and Works: OOHNEB OF VICTORIA AND COBOBO-BTREETS, "li/fT BOY wears out his Clothes ter- JJ/JL rtblrpnlck." Well. "Boys will be Boys." Ifext time yoy want an outfit take him to J. Renddl'B, Brighton House, top of Grey-et. Good stronK Suits at '.18s Ud; Sailor Suits, for Small Boys,.*» lid; Tweed, Norfolk, So., 5s lid. T JCENSIN6 ELECTION.—What's your JU oplnipp-i Whatever It may' be on this question, there, can't be two opinions that the Mbn'iTwecd'Trou»er9,-at4Blld; Tweed Coats, ißUAitiifee&BitiSflSdW, now seUlng at J. Rendell's, BrißUton House, top of Grey-street, , arc really good valnfl ipi the motjey; ; A\NE GUINEA ffiiß.f-Q\^nfißß are very' \J useful,but they are only worth 21b. The l Men's Dark Check Tweed Salte to be hod at J.t Rendell's Brighton House, too of Grer-atroet, for Ma, are worth »gato»aacd:a-h»y. mfIbUSANDS !—Some advertisers seem A very fond of big fisures. A wodeafc man hae very uttlachanco. It's a fact, however, that X tave over 000 yards of 'good, useful Dross Lawn Hollands; i 2 yards for 2a Hid, or 3d yd.— J. Randell, top of Grey-street;' ■...,-■ . ■ ■-■..: ■ ■ ,x" ■