SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

~.,,„ u7, T i,-H IThig BveniiiK, 3.19 HIUH WATKK ( To . mOTri , w horning, 3.50 KrNSBT.-Thi* ICvrnfi-u. 5.10 •■•■ "I«h;.-To nvini.-.v Morning. 7.1 - MOON'S AGffi.—Full Moon, 7th,10.16a.m.

ARRIVALS. LAST EVENING.

Thomas Rusacll, s.s., Ilolandor, from Glsbornc

TO-BAY. Wairarapa. a.s., ("hut Hold from Tongs Wellington, s.s., li'iirquliar, from Russoll Glcnelg, s.s., Stcvhenson, from Tauranga Rowena, s.s., Scoll. from Jlercury Bay

DEPARTURES.

lona, 8.8., Amodeo, for Hokianga Maogregor, s.s., Johnson, for Whangaroi Waitaki, s.s., Crawford, for WhanKarei

The brigantino Oamaru is daily expected to arrive from Rnrotonga.

The barque AndroklO3 takes part cargo of timber from this port for Sydney, and will sail early nexfweok.

The schooner Louie was loading timber nt Tairua when the Rowcna loft, and was ex pected to sail for Suva to-day.

The schooner Eastward Ho waa at Lovuka when tho Wairarapa left that port.

The schooner Orpheus arrived at Morcury Bay from this port yesterday afternoon, and went up the river to load timber.

The brigantinc Myrtle was docked this morn ing for cleaning.

The 8.8. Neptuno was floated out of the Dock this morning, and will resume running lv Mercury Bay on' Monday.

The a.B. Wellington arrived from Russell at i a.m. Passengers—Messrs Parker, Whcclor, McFarlane, Hudson, C. Goiro. Dickeson, IJalov Misses Marshall and Goffe, and nine in tlie stoorago.

The brigantino Maria Virginia was loading at Morcury Bay when tho Rowcnalef t.

Tho achooner Sandfly was to have left Vavuu for Auckland on Tuesday last. The 8.8. Glonolff arrived from Tauranga carlv to-day, with tho following passengers:—Mr anil Mrs Burchcll and child. Mesdamcs Wrigley) Best, and Miss MoLaughlin, Misses Wuito and Wrigley, Captain Morris, Master Morris, Ilov. Mr Sutherland, Messrs T. Wrielcy. 3, Menzieg, Jones, English, Ngarako, McKinlay, MeCastland.

The sohoonera Coquette and Saxon were wlndbound at Russoll when the W«llington left.

We are informed that the beacons at Ohiwa have keen cut away. Tho entranco is a difficult one, and tho authorities should s-.o that they are speodHy replaced.

Mr C. Bailoy has undertaken to convert the schooner Senator into acoal hulk, and workmon are now engaged in dismantling tho vessel. Now hatches are to be cut, a floor laid fore and aft m the hold, and tho copper is to bo raised. The steamer Tui, while coming over the Fox ton Bar on Thursday, bumped, and hud her rudder and storn post carried away. Sin arrived at Wellington yesterday morning, and will undergo ropaire.

A threo-mosted schooner, supposed to bo the JerTaloon, from Manilla, was looming up the channel when wo went to press.

Tho steumer Triumph was bcrthort nt the Railway Wharf this afternoon.

Tho s.s. Thoma3 Russell arrived from Gis borne early last evening, with67s sheop, SO bass bones, 1 ton tobacco. She returns South this evening.

An Invcrcargill telogram states that a miner named D. Walker, Oropuke, while working in the Beach claim thore on Tuesday, picked up ii ship's medicine chest with "Mario AnKe" painted on it. No wreckage has boon seen by the district cotista'ile, who went in search. The barque Mario Ange, Captain Mall, 275 lons, left Newcaetlo for Port Chalmerß on the Bth ult, and was spoken on the following day.

The following Union steamers arc due hero next week:—Hawca, from Tarannki (at Manu kau), oh Sunday, 9 a.m.; Southern Cross, trom

'"riaborne, Sunday; Wnihora, from Mo'buurnc. Via Southern ports, Monday morning; Omapere, from Qroyniouth, Thursday.

THE WAIRARAPA.

The s.B. Walrarapa returned from her second trip to tho South Sea Inlands this morninfr in !0 o'clock. We are indebted to Mr Taylor, purser, for the following report:—Left Auckland at.s.\'. p.m. on July 7, and, afterafino weather passatro, reached Suva at 1.30 p.m. on the Mh; r maincd at Suva till 9.30 a.m. on the 13lh, and arrived at Lovuka at 1.45 pm. same day: sailed agiin at 7.15 a.m. on the 15th. made Taviuni same day at 2 o'clock, anchored off Mango Island at. 10.: 0 a.in. on the 16th, suiting again for tho Samoan Group at 6 a.ra. on the 17th, and arrived ar. Apia at 8.30 a m. on the 19th ; sailed acnin at i.30 p.m on the 21st, stopped at Pago Pago on the 22nd and 23rd, reached Vavau at 8.30 a.m. on the 25th. remained thore until 8 a.m. on tho 27th. and arrived at Tongatabu at 9a m. next day; sailci! for Auckland at 4 p.m. on the 29th : exoarienced fcesh south-east winds from Tonga.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

DtJNEDIN, this day.—Arrived: At Hcadß, Euterpe, from London; all well.

Chief Post-Office, Auckland.

Mails Tritr, Clobk ad undkh:- Tbib Day. For Wellington and Southern Ports, per Waira rapa, at 5 p.m. Money Orders, registered letters and news papors, at 1 p.m. Monday, Ith inst. For Thames, por Rotomahana, at 10.30 a.m. For Waltara, per Argylc, at 11 a.m. For Coromandol. per Coromandol. at 11.3" (i.m. For Tairua, per l'aku. Nt 3 p.m For Ruasell and Kawakawa, por Waihora, at For Russoll, Kawakawa, Wangaroa, and Mon gomii, per Glenolg, at 5 p.m. For Tauranga, Ohinemutu, and Opotiki, por Wellington, at 5 p.m. For Whltiangl and Upper Mill, per Ncptujo. at For Thames, per Enterprise at 5.30 p.m. Tuesday, sth inst. For Taranaki and Soulhorn ports, per Hawea, For Waiwera, Kawnu, Omaha. Matakana, and Warkworth. per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Whnngarel Heads, Parua, Waipu, han garei, Kaiffo, and Mangapai, por Macgrcgor or Waitaki, at S p.m. Tuksday, 10th inst. Per s.a. Zcalandla, as follcwa— For Bamiwioh Islands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Eurppo, at 1 p.m. For nionoy orders, registered lottore and nowspapers, at 11.30 a.m. Lato letters, bearing an extra fco of six pence in addition to tho postage, will be received by the Mail Agont on board tho steamer up to the tinio or sailing. This mail will bo due in London on SaHir day, Soptombor 27th, 1881. N.B.—Tho s.B. Coptic will lcavo Ljttclton, for London, via Rio do .Tanioro and Plymouth, on August 10. Kxpccted tlmo of passage, ii days. S. B. BISS, Chlof Postmaster. Chief Post-ofllco. Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

August 2, 1884. Abbott's Opera House—" Burbo Ulouo," 7.13 p.m. V.M.C. Association -Evangelical Service, 7.30 p.m. Theatre lioyil—Grand Walking Contest.

Births.

ANDKRSON.—On 29th July, at St. Mary's ltond, I'onsonby, Mrs Diivld Anderson o( a daughter. GREY.—On August Ist, at Park Road, Parnoll> Mrs F. W. Grey Oi a daughter.

Death.

BIIILAKK.—On 2nd August, at Cla'ence-stri-et Ponsonby, Leonard l'\ lildlnko, eldest boh of tho late James Bidlnko, ngod 7 years. Tho f unorul will leavo his mother's rusidom o at 3 p.m. To-morrow (Sunday). BROWN.—On Juno 10th. ISSI. at Calcutta, of cholera, William Brown, sucond beloved son of Thomas Drown, of Chappol Square, Auck land ; ngccl, 23 years. CONWAY.—On tho Ist AugUfct, 1881, at his Into residence, Pompallior Torruco, Ponsonby, Jehn Con way; agod 17 years. Tho funeral will leave his lato resldenco at 3 p.m. on Sunday next, the 3rd lust. Friends are respectfully invited t» attund.—R.l.P. THORPE.—On August 1, Jorvis Tnorpo. ngod 53 y-Nirs, of Doc*-streot, Freeman's Bay. Tho funeral will leave tho residonco of Mr W. O'llegan. Nolsonstreot, to-morrow, at 3.30 p.m. Friends pleaso accept this invitation. Nottingham papers pleaso copy.

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

SATURDAY, AUGUST 2, 1884.

Kor the cause that lacks assistance, For tlio wrong that needs roslstano*. For tho future in the distanoe. And the Kood that wo can do.

Of all the lessons of the elections, that taught by the Dunedin " Tablet," and reported by telegram in another column, is the most pernicious. It is an appeal to the electors on religious grounds—a demand that the Catholics shall use the franchise solely for the promotion of the interests of their Church without reference to the interests of the State, and that they shall always block vote. The arguments by which the writer attempts to justify these propositions are confused and self-contradictory. He states as a grievance that any can didate who is known to possess the support of Roman Catholics is certain of rejection. We deny this. -Mr Dar gaville had the bulk of the Catholic vote —it was well known he would have it— and he won, his victory being largely attributable to that sup port. Mr Tole, notwithstanding the " Tablet's" assertion that the re ligious communion which it represents has not obtained a single representa tive, is a Roman Catholic and a con scientious one, and he won. That was the local experience, and we have no doubt it has been the experience in other parts of the' colony. The "Tablet" is, however, right to this ex tent, that block voting is bad policy for any one sect, because it arrays everyone else in the community on the other side; and the. minority goes to the wall. In manufacturing excuses for a Catholic block vote, the " Tablet" is really justifying a combination against it: the one is as legitimate as the other. The appeal, however, will fail in its purpose. Before Catholics resolve to cast their votes all one way, they must all be brought to think the same, and that has never yet been accomplished. In the late elections we found them voting indiscriminately for and against supporters of the present Go vernment. If they had followed the " Tablet's " advice, they would have united in keeping Major Atkinson in office, because he is confessedly a champion of denominational educa tion ; and other members of his Ministry sympathised with his views on that subject. When Sir John Hall was at the head of the Government, three members of the Ministry were favourable to the Catholic claims, and had publicly declared that they were only waiting for a change in public sentiment to enable them to carry their views into effect. The knowledge of these'facts, however, did not cause the Catholic voters to support the Ministry; it did not win the goodwill even of the "Tablet." The fact is that the political opinions of Catholics, as of other electors, are swayed by many considerations—some of them local, and some purely personal prefer ences; and fortunately for the com munity at large, the people are a good deal wiser than their would-be leaders.

Miracle or Humbug Which?

To those people who havo noted the career and pretensions of Mr Milner Stephen, the self-styled "healer" of disease by occult means, the above question fairly puts the alternative wajrs of accounting for his achievements. One of these must be true. Either Mr Stephen is the most noted miracle-worker who has appeared on the face of the earth since the Great Physician left it, or he is the biggest quack and most shameless fraud that has lived since the days of Nostradamus. By his own account, special powers have been be stowed upon him in response to earnest prayer; these powers consist in the ability to heal all manner of disoases by the simple " laying on of hands ;" and he further pro fesses, if wo understand aright, that thcso powers are identical with the force known as "animal magnetism." There is, here a not very ingenuous admix tine of the mira culous and the commonplace. Everybody has got more or less animal magnetism, but

fow are so favoured as to havo got an extra supply of it in answer to prayer, earnest or otherwise ; and still fower claim that by its moans they can euro ailmonts which balllo tho physician's skill. No wonder that Mr Milner Stephen's claims are viewed o\<ith suspicion, not only by " tho regular dust men " of the art of healing, but by com mon-sonso people in every walk of life. Wo would direct attention to tho roport in another column of a decisive test applied to tho occult healer in Dunedin. Having pub licly assorted that ho had cured a bad caso of internal cancer, ho was challenged to sub stanti.tj his statement, with the result that medical examination provod'that the patient was in no sensccured, butthatthodiseuschad simply passed through a phase which brings temporary relief, but doe:; not arrest tho progress of tho fatal malady. A_a Mr Stophon put it, it may bo "extraordinary that this should happen just after he had touched tho patient;" but medical ox. porionco shows that the same thing very frequently happens without any touch whatever, which should be more wonderful still. If tho extent of his miracle-working is doing things which happen just as well without him, his pretensions are not very hard to disposo of. Wo do not propose at present to answer tho question wo havo propounded as to whether Mr Stophon's "cures" are due to miracle or humbug, but we fancy our readors can arrive at a just conclusion for themselves. Tho "healer' is a terrible customer to tacklo ; for if he can " euro," it is possiblo he can also destroy ! It is worthy of noto, that one of tho Dunedin doctors who hinted at " hum bug," was ominously reminded that Mr Stophon was a barrister; and wo havo no desire to mako tho acquaintance of tho miracle-worker in bis legal, any moro than in his medical capacity.

Tho Wairarapa returned this morning aftor a most successful cruisa among tho South Sea Islands. An account of tho

excursion, written by our special corres pondent, appears inanolhor column. Other passages from his notes will bo given in future issues.

Tho Australian cricketers wero the occasion of a most disgraceful ex hibition of English rowdyism at tho late match on tho Oval Ground. Tho telegram throws the blame of the dis turbanco on tho vexed "gate money " ques tion ; but it is evidont that it was more directly duo to tho fact that tho English team were being badly beaten. It in clear that tho action of throwing, open tho ground to the public removed nil caui>o of com plaint of necessary motived on tho part, of tho colonials, ami tho ruffianism is quite indefensible.

A small slwpmont of tho Russell Koad cement avrivod by the steamer Wellington for tho proprietor of the Star Hotel. It makes a very linn and dry walk.

In conscquonco of the difficulty of sucur ing Justices this morning, the Police Court bufinoss was not commenced until 11.15 a.m.

Mr W. J. llur.it, M. 11.11. for Waitomata, was a passenger for Wellington by tho s.s. Wairarapa, which loft Auckland for Southern ports this afternoon.

In Chambers yesterday morning, before Mr Justice Uillies, in re David Chapman (doceased) the security required was reduced to £900, while probnto was granted in re- Barton Ireland (deceased) toO. N. Brassey, one of tho executors named in tho will.

At tho fortnillhtly meeting of Iho Hoard of Education yesterday, eighteen applica tions for Head-mastership of N roNon--treot School were rocoived, and on the motion of Mr Goldio wero referred to a scluct Com mittee to choose from, and report upon at tho next meeting.

Mr W. K. Bishop, President of the North Island Branch of tho Ancient Qrdor of Druids, leaves Napier to-day on an official visit to Auckland and Thames lodges.

Tho question of a successor as Principal of Training College came before tho Board of Education yostorday. Is was resolved, on tho recommendation of tho Inspector, "That Mr Fidler carry on tho work till the end of tho present year." Mr Mo.<s moved and it was carried :—" That tho Secretary, in informing Mr McArthur that Mr I'idlor will relievo him of the charge of tho school, state tho Board's satisfaction with the mannor in which tho school has been con ducted, and thoir regret that circumstances havo compelled them to terminate tho ar rangement with him."

Tho consecration and dedication of a new Koyal Arch Chapter will tako placo at the Masonic Hall, Princes-street, on Tuesday evening, tho sth inst. Tho Chap! or is holdcn of the Supremo Grand Koyal Arch Chapter of Scotland, and will bo tho second In the North Island under tho Scotch Con stitution. Tho principal olKcors of the English and Irish Koyal Arch Chapters of Auckland tako part in the opening cere monies, and an oration will bo delivered by Row W. Tebbs, a past tirst principal of tho order. Tho subject chosen by Mr Tobbs le the " Object and Scopo cf Koyal Arch Masonry," An advertisement appears in another column by which all Arch Masons aro inritcd to attend tho opening coro monies.

Thomas Homan, of Chapcl-strcot, writes to say that ho is not tho Thomas Homan committed for trial yesterday morning, neither is he any relation whatevor.

Poor Dick Foltus has boon again com mitted to the Lunatic Asylum. Mo wont up to Government Honso last evening and demanded tho keys, which were, of course, refused. When boing examined by a doctor this morning, Dick assured the medical gentleman that ho had tho power of transmigration of soul, and that at the present time the spirit in, him is that of iho fate Prince Consort, nnd that John Brown had given him a promiso to clotho that faithful servitor's disembodied spirit with Feltue' fleshly tabornaclc.

The following officers for tho Auckland branch of tho Now Zealand Educational Jnstituto have been elected for tho ensuing 'oar: — Chairman, Mr Bailey ; secretary, Mr Dickonson ; treasurer, Mr Leonard ; aommitteo, Messrs Worthington, Coates, Hart, Scott, Biuford, Hameon, Hoskins, Bailey, and Professor Aldis. It was agreed last night, on tho motion of Mr Worthing ton, to suggest to tho Board of Education that in future tho examination for District Scholarships be identical with tho require ments of fifth and sixth standards.

A long letter was read nt tho Board of Education yesterday from Mr Heath, Head master of the Girls' High School, in vindica tion of his deviation from the programme framed by tho Board in respect of clns.s books for the 4th and sth Standards. Mr Cooper spoko at somo length on this sub ject, and considero:l that Mr Heath had fully and fairly justified his course of action, and the Board ought to repose confidence in the master. Ho was prepared to givo notice of a motion to tho effect that tho programme be modified so as to moot tlio working of the school. Mr Clark thought tho matter should bo atonce gone into, and in order to discussit would movethatthestand ing orders should bo suspended, Tho'motion was carried, and Mr Cooper proceodeil to say that Mr Hoath had justified his action. He had ascertained that the Inspector had not spent half-au-hour in tho school for a considerable time, and only visited it twice a year. Mr Goldie supported Mr Cooper. Mr Luke thought the programmo should not bo altered, if possible ; it would bo a dangerous precedent. Mr Moat and Mr Mobs also spoko upon tho subject. The Chairman said the master must be bound by the programmo in future. Mr Cooper then gave notice of motion, viz., "That a visiting committee be appointed to visit the Girls' High School at regular intervals; that the examination and scholar ships be based on the actual work dono during tho yoar; and that tho first torm begin after the Christmas holidays.1'

The choir of St. Bonedict'a will bo strengthened to-morrow, both morning and evening, by tho leading mombors of the Opera Company, who also contributo solos. Weber's beautiful muss in G will be performed at the II o'clock service.

A short time «sinco tho public wore noti fied through the prees, as well a? by stato monts circulated locally, that Mr George McLeod had a " rich find ;" in fact, had dis covered tho source of the Paul's Creek gold. There were, however, some who inclinod to the opinion that McLeod had no proper claim to the discovery in question, inasmuch as the goftl was found by Alexander Mc- Neil, who was at the time managing the property known as the " Last of tho Mohi cans," bolcnging to Mr French, the lessee. The case came before the Warden on Tues day last, and resulted in the complete dis aomfiture of Mr McLeod and his " backer?," McLeod's allegations that M eN eil had either neglected to peg out the ground or other wise shifted the pegs being disproved. On the contrary, the evidence most conclusively established French's title through McNeil. Judgment was given for French with costs. McLeod admitted that McNeil had dis covered the gold, and showed il him with the view of enabling him to take up adja cent ground which might be of benefit to him. The judgment of the Court met with general approval, dodges of this kind being a bane to goldfields.

George Mai'kic, enrpontor, of Auckland, was adjudicated a bankrupt to-day.

With reference to tho charge of assault ing Thos. Aahcr mid Goo. Taylor, preferred against Geo. Yazoy, and reported in our yesterday's issue, wo aro informed that tho parties never appeared in Court, and Mr Taylor states that ho was not summoned on a counter charge of assaulting Vazey.

The fortnightly mooting of tho City Schools Committee was hotel last evening, Mr Carr presiding. In reply to a question, tho Chairman stated that tho average at tendance at tho Franklin Road girls' school was (iO. Tho Inspoctor, Iho Chairman said, had no objection to tho admission of small boys. Mr Crowtlier thought they should givo tho .-chool a month's further trial, and if it did not fill up with girls they could admit young boys. The Secretary intimated that tho Boon! had placed i'loo to tho credit of tho Committees. Considerable discussion took place regarding the election of a mem ber, to the Board. A letter was read from Mr Buchanan, one of tho candidates, stating that ho considered it would be unwise to have a paid oflicial of another educational establishment a inombor of tho Board. Ho also stated, so that thoro might bo no mis approhonsion, that ho was in favour of secu lar, froo, and compulsory education. Ono of tho members of tho Committee stated that ho had it on roliablo autho rity that up to tho prosont time Professor Tucker had boon nominated by thirty-nine committees, and Mr Buck land by only three. A complaint from Iho City Inspoctor of Nuisances regarding defective drainage at tho Wclleslcy-strect School was referred to tho Board. Some discussion took placo regarding tho half holiday ombroglio, regarding which tho Inspoctor had complained to tho Board. Tho Chairman stated that when Mr Wor thington spoko to him about tho half holiday ho thought it was for the big boys only, and not tho wliolo of the school. Other members of tho Cotninittoo had acted under tho same understanding. Mr Crow ther thought tho precedent a dangorous ono. Eventually it was decided that, as Iho whole matter was in good faith, it be nllowod to pass. Complaints woro received from tho toachoi'B regarding tho inofliciont manner in which tho Wellusloy-streot School was cleaned. Tho cloanor wrote asking for an increase of salary to £80 por annum, uthcTwiso she would havo to givo it up. Tho Oommittoo decided to advoitiso for a cleaner at JtTljO por annum. Thin wus all the business.

Tho statistics of imports and oxports for the quarter ending 30th Juno last show that, as compared with the previous year, tho rvihmv is still in a doprossod condition. Tin -i-m-M lust quarter woro £1,604,000, and tho oxp ns ivuro £1,007,83fi, as against C1,"<57,196 and £1,840,04!) respectively for tho corresponding quarter of last year. Auckland shows a considerable increase in imports, the amount being £443,424 ; but hor oxports have fallon oil, reaching a total of only i'IoO.CUG.

Miss Dargon's sorios of entertainments at Napier concluded yesterday, when she had a crowded house. Hor recitals aro regarded as the greatest intellectual treat over afforded in Napier. Sho loaves to-day by tho Waihoni for Auckland, and proposes, if health permits, to givo a fow entertain ments hero prior to her departure for Australia.

Tl'"» debate between Mr Isaac Sclby, Free thought lecturer, and Mr John Buchanan, on the question "Is tho Mosaic Accouut of Creation at Variance with Science?" will bo commenced in tho Tlioatru Koyal on Monday uoxt. A vory largo attendance is anticipated.

Tho Microd concert which is to bo given to-morrow night in the Opera House by the Dunning Opera Troupo, assisted by local amateurs, promfocM to excel tho previous concert in every respect. Only a few niter at ions havo been made in tho programme, and thosor tend to render it Htill more attractive ; while from the enlarged oppor tunities afforded for rehearsal, a consider nblo measure of artistic success may be anticipated, Above all, there will bo no more scramble for admission on this occa sion, as ticket-holders only will have tho right of enlii'v, and tho numbor of tickets issued has boon strictly regulated by the sitting accommodation. Inall 1,1:20 tickets havo been issued -- viz., 280 for dress circle, 10 for orchestral stalls, 400 for stalls, and 100 for pit — and Messrs Hallifax and Dean have exorcised every precaution in their distribution to cn.-uro tho exclusion of undesirable characters. . Holders of tickets for tho previous concert will bo admitted ton minutes prior to the admission of the others. A collection will bo mado in tho course of tho evening, and the promoters trust to their patrons for an adequate rccoinponso for their time, trouble, and pecuniary outlay.

TouduM woro ojiened to-day at Mr E. BartleyV, architect, for a block of four brick shops in llobaon-strcot. Tho tenders wore as follows:—Sharlor, L 1,875 (brick), (concrete); Wilson, L 1,788 (brick), L 1,713 (concrete); Wrigloy nnd Hand cock, L 1.603 (brick), (concrete); El linghnm, L 1,695 (brick), 1-1,51)5 (conorote); Leigh Bros., L!,5f10 (brick), L 1,500 (con crete); Smith and Beatlic, L!,« 00 (brick), L 1,400 (concrete) jDa vis and Evans, L!.,4!)0 (brick), Ll,3oo(concrete; Constable, L 1,456 (brick), L 1.356 (concrete) ; I'onk and Allen, L 1,457 (brick), £.1,367 (concrete); Colobrook, L1.4C0 (brick), L 1.295 (con crete); J'acey, L1.37U (brick), L1, '26'.) (con crete). No tender liaa yet been accepted.

To tho Editor: Sir, —In your roport of the vory oxcollcnt reunion provided by Mr Peacock for tho entertainment of his elec tion committees, thoro occurred a slight error which deprives a gentleman of credit duo to him for his excellent "after-dinner " speech, which was really a good itom in the programme Mr Dowiioy, chairman of Arch Hill Committee, cortainly deserves acknowledgment for tho manner in which lie responded for that Committee, but you havo given tho credit to Mr McDcrmott. There wan also ono foaturo worthy of special notice, and that is that although tho whole affair was carried out on strictly tempcrauco principles, thoro was no lack of real enthu siasm and thorough enjoyment.—Yours, 4c, Onk of the Macs Present.

The popular sorvioo of song " Eva" is to be given in tho Primitive Mothodist Church, Alexandra-street, on Monday next. Thore is no charge for admission, but a collection is to be mado in aid of tho Sunday-school.— [Sco Advortisemont],

Tho'members of the "A" Battery are notified by advertisement to attend at tho Drill-shed next Thursday evening far monthly inspection. Every member is requested to bo present.

Sunday services aro announcod elso whero. Sermons on tho due obeorvanco of tho Sabbath will bo proachod to-morrow at Pitt-stioot Wcbloyan, Church, Graf ton Koad, Alexandrastroet, and at most of the othor chapols, as por announcements.

Tho Salvationists hold their lirst sorvico in tho Opora Houso to-morrow (Sunday). An advortisomont rolativo to tho gathoring appears elsewhere.

Tho Comic Opora Company intend to re produce • " Boccaccio " on Monday night, whilo a monster bill of unusual attractive ness is in preparation for Tuesday evening, on which occasion Mr Dunning receives a well-earned bonoh't. It is to bo hoped that tho reward of merit and enterprise will be a bumper house. On Woduosday tho Com pany -will take farowoll of tho Auckland public in " La FiHo do Madamo Angot " which has beon solcctcd as the valodictory piece. They leave for Wellington on Thurs day.

Mr Isaac Solby is announced to deliver a lecture to-morrow evening in tho Lorne strcet Hall on "Samson tho Fox-Hunter." Mr Dean of tho Opora Company will recito, and sovcral ethor mombors of tho samo company will sing,

An interesting locturo is announced to bo givon in St. Sepulohre's! School-room, Symonds-Htroct, on Monday evening noxt. 'JFlio subject, "Electricity," will bo illus trated by numorous interesting cxperi monts; and when we-stato that tho lecturer is Mr Donkin, C.E., late of tho Electric Light Co., London, it will bo recog nised that a treat of no ordinary kind is in store Admission is frco, thero is no colloc tion and tho public arc cordially invited.

Tho nationalistic Association, at its meet ing to-morrow morning, will discuss the advisability orothenvisoof resuming charges for admission when professional lecturers aro engaged. An tho decision, whatever it may be, will bo too lato to affect the evening mooting, the same method of admission will be adopted to-morrow evening ns on last Sunday. All mem-born of tho Association are urgently requested to attend tho meet ing in tho morning.

Tho Rev. Joseph S Hill will deliver an address this evening in the Young Mon's Chris tian Association Hall, on " Christian Character."

A recognition service, •to welcome the Rev. Thomas Adams, pastor of the Nowton Congregational Church, ■Will bo held on Thurs day next.

A novel treat is announced to take place on Monday evening in tliel!oinu«raHull under tlioniispimsnf thnSncia) Union, v\?,.. tho chil dren's fancy (Jrcbs dance, opening al fix o'clook. 'Adrunntii! entertainment will bo-jjiven on the fcUoivihx Thursday evening.

DON'T DIE IN THE HOUSE.-- K«« f \, on nan Mai .! '*Jt mt:i. tni'C l^ctlf.l, iyadica, bul-Uigj, Uiu.i, fint.\ ninr-jt i Kmuiithimie, Proiwr Is Co.. Agwt>. AucklNld.

CABLEGRAMS.

[BY CABLE.-COPYKIGHT.]

The French Convict Question.

London, August I.—A Congress of tho two French Chambers will be hold at Ver sailles on Monday next, to take into con sideration tho revision of the Recidivistes Bill.-

Sir Honry Parkes sails for Australia via San Francisco to-morrow.

Sir Michaol Hicks-Beach has boon oloeted Chairman of tho National Tory Union, Lord Randolph Churchill having retired from that position.

AUSTRALIAN.

French Conviots In Queensland.

Brisbane, August I.—Several Now Cale donian escapees have landed on the northern coasts of this colony.

Australian Markets.

Sydney, August I.—New Zealand wheat, per bushel, is quoted at 3s 6d; New Zealand oats, at 2s Cd i maize at 4s 3d; and tho Sugar Company's No. 1 pieces por ton at £33.

Adelaidk, August I.—Wheat is quoted at 3s 9d. The market is qutot, and little is doing. Flour : Town brands, £9 per ton ; country ditto, £8.

THE SOUDAN REBELLION.

ATTACK ON SOUAKIM REPULSED,

[BY OAHLK.-COI'YRIGHT.]

London, August 1, Telkukamh from Souakim state that tho town was atrackod yesterday by a strong force of robots, who had boon gathoring in tho neighbourhood for somo days past. Tho attack was repulsed by tho British troops stationed at Souakim, and tho enemy suffered heavily. Tho weather is now ox tremoly hot, and tho troops are suffering sovoroly from its effects, a considerable, numbor being in tho Hospital from sun stroke.

THE PENDING FRANCO CHINESE WAR.

(By Camus.— Col'yhioht),

London, August 1. It is believed in Foochow that war with Franco is imminent. The English com mander at that port is landing sailors to protect Europeans, and Chinese merchants have Bold thoir fleets to Americans. Tho sum offered by tho Chinese Government as indemnity wns not five millions sterling, as formerly wired, but h" vo million taels (about .£1,500,000).

ANGLO-AUSTRALIAN CRICKET.

(IIV CAULK— COVhttOUT.)

London, July 31

Tiik Australian cricketers commenced yesterday at tho Oval against tho oloven Players of England. Tho homo team went in lirst, but only succeeded in scoring 107. The principal contributors wero: Ulyett, c, 22; and Humphreys, b, 18. Tho visitors then went in for thoir lirst innings, which closed for 151. Tho principal scorers woro: MacDonncll, st, 26; Murdoch, b, I!); and Bonnor, run out, 68. Bonnor was in oxcollent form, and his play was much applauded. Ho did not giro a single chanco throughout his Innings until his wicket was put down. Tho second innings of tho homo team then commenced, but only tivo runs had been scored with one wicket down whon play stopped for tho day.

A STREET FIGHT.

Tiik arcadian tranquility of York-street, Parnell, wns rudoly broken in upon this morning, nnd tho flow of conversation ovor tho matutinal meal was interrupted by a furioufi encounter, in which A. E. Mcrritt, a rubber-stamp engraver, and Mr T. 11. Watts, a commission agent, playod the con tending paits. It soomi that Mr Watt* had been commissioned to collect certain accounts for Mr Morrittand his partner, Mr Rose, and that subsequently he declined to hand over tho money to Merritt, as he had received his instructions from Hose. Morritt accordingly went to Watts's houso in York street this morning in order to demand an explanation. A colloquy took place betwoon them at Iho front door, and an alterca tion of a' rather sultry character speedily ensued. Then, according to Meritt's statement, Watts suddenly stooping down, lifted up the door scraper ana Ktruck him with it on tho crown of tho head, inflicting a scalp wound, from which blood flowed very copiously. Merritt at onco closed with his assailant, and a rough and-tumblo fight, lasting about a quarter of an hour, followed. Watts came out of it rathor the worse, getting his eyes bUokoned and soveral of his teeth Knocked out, while Merritt was streaked and bespattered with blood from his head. A largo crowd wit nossed tho affray, and appeared to take a great interest in it. The matter is to bo still further fought out in Court, Merritt having ongaged Mr Hosketh to act for him In a charge of assault against Watts.

ABBOTT'S OPERA HOUSE.

Miss Loafs Benefit,

The announcement that this talented can tatrice was to tako a benefit attracted a largo audience at the Opera House last ovening—indeed, it was ono of tho largest houses of tho season. The piece selected was OfTonbach's whimsical opera boufl^ "BarboBlouo"("Bluo Beard"). Pressure on our spaco prevents us giving an ox tended report, but we may state that the performance was in every way successful. " Barbo Blouo " will bo repeated to-night.

SCINTILLATIONS.

" Blue Beaud " in the Opora House to night. Steamer lonic is duo hero from London. Sacred Concert to be repeated to-morrow ovening. Wairarapa, with South Sea excursionists, in to-day. " Conscience " Groon has been banquettcu at Dunedin. Mail steamer Zealandia reached Sydnoy yesterday. Hon. T. Dick bids farewell to Welling ton on Monday. Yesterday was the 17th anniversary of Thames goldliold. Telegraphic communication with Tas mania is interrupted. Steamer Coptic is now loading frozen meat at Napier. A company is being formed at Waioron gomai to build a pubuc hall and library. Tho beer duty returns for July show a considerable advanco;—a sure sign of prosperous times. A strong antagonism to France is con stantly allowing itsolf in the English Tory Thos. King, of Wellington, drank a bottle of rum on Thursday night, and on Friday ' morning was found dead. About 300 of the natives at Parihaka have left, and all remains tranquil. A ten-year-old boy, eon of Mr Wilson, teachor, Bast Oxford, Canterbury, was ac cidently killed yesterday by being run ovor. Ch™tchurch will "soon earn tho name of " The City of Conferences." A frozen meat conference is to meet there on Friday

next. Zadkiel, tho astrologer, claims to have predietod in his hieroglyphic the recent death in tho royal family. Mr Moir, Mayor of Invorcargill, was married yesterday to a Miss Johnston, daughter of the ex-Mayor. _ A regular "mayor's nest ' their family will be. William Isherwood blew out his brains at Greymouth yesterday. Mining specula tion and hard drinking are assigned as con tributing causes. It is reported that Mr James Green, late member for Waikouaiti, intends to petition go unseat Mr Buckland. The Sabbath question is to form the sub ject of discourse of a number of preachers tomorrow. Tho Rationalists try to evade legal responsibility by requesting the public who go to their meeting to-morrow night to "contribute voluntarily" a fixed sum ac cording to the seats they occupy. ,

MILNER STEPHEN CHAL LENGED.

The Doctors of Dunedin Corner tho

Magnotic Hoalor,

(BY TELHGIIAI'II—OWN COKRESPONBEKT.)

DuxKsnr, this day. In tho prosonco of the Mayor, Mr Street, and tho Rev. Dr. Stuart, the medical men of tho city challenged Milner Stephen to prove that he had, as alleged, mado an astonishing euro of internal cancer by magnetic healing power. Tho Faculty was represented by Drs. Coughtroy, Butcholor, and Brown. The patient, n middlo-aged woman, was attended by her daughtor-in-law. At tho outset it became evidont that a very serious difference of opinion existed between the medical gentle men andMr Stephen as to the form which the investigations should tako. Throe doctors had como prepared to mako a personal ex amination of tho patient, and would not for one moment entertain tho idea that tho euro, if accomplished, could be ascertained in any otkor way. Neither the patient nor Mr Stephen was ready to acquioseo in this, but referred tho visitors to a sworn statc mont mado before the Mayor and to the " cancer and fibrous roots" which had como away from tho patient since the magnotic treatment. The roply of tho doctors was that tho statomont of the pationt was absolutely worthless, as she could not possibly know whether she was cured or not, and neither could anyone olso without examination. Dr. Brown said that in such cases fibrous matter frequently came away with bleed ing, but without in any way arrest ing tho disease. Ho wished Mr Stephen to tako notico that their only reason in coming was to mako a personal examination of the patient, and bco whether or not the cancer was still there, bccnuno it was a common thing for cancers to broak down and como away, but with that they had nothing whatever to do. Mr Stephen (pointing to tho specimen): Look at that. Dr. Brown : It simply confirms what 1 i»ay. Will you let urn examine her? I •wasted my time and left my patients to come hero, and it seems only for this hum bugging. Mr Stophon : I object to that; and I hope you will remember that I am a bar rister. Dr. Batchclor hore speculated as to Mr Stephen's object in going with the patient into tho adjoining room. Just then Mr Stephen said: Dr. Bat chelor and his brethren seem to think that they have como to mako a personal examina tion of tho patient. He (Mr Stephen) did not understand anything of that kind from either tho letter sent or the reply. Ho beggod thorn to como in order to inspect matter which had been sworn as having como away from tho patient. Dr. Brown : How do we even know that that is what has come from tho patient V Mr Stophon : Sho swore it. Dr. Brown : Well, that would not bo evi donco unless it has been in her possession ovor since. Dr. Coughtroy : You asserted that tho woman was cured of cancer, and we, a* fair and honourable men como, hero to sco if it is bo. You shall have all the credit. The only t;ay to decide is by a poisonal examina tion. Without that, neither you, wo, nor liny other man, can say whether sho is cured or whother sho eror had a cancer. Mr Stepbon : You assorted that ."he had. That U all we go upon. Dr. Batchclor t-aid unless the woman sub mitted to an examination they were boing humbugged. Tho woman seemed to him to bo tho same as when ho last savr her—if any thing rather thinner. Dr. Stuart strongly advised her to be ex amined. Sho had spoken of her marvellous relief and about tho disappearance of a large lump. The doctor said thero was no lump when tho woman was last examined. The substanco was not cancer. Dr. Coughtroy recommended her to submit to an examination. If the state of things which they found existed before had disappeared, Mr Stophon should got all the credit. Dr. Stuart: By all means examine hor. Mr Stephen wont into an adjoining room, Baying he would try and porsuado the pationt. Upon re-appearing with the patient, Dr. Stuart wild ho was very glad that sho had decided to submit. Tho pationt: No, I will not to-day. Dr. Coughtroy remonstrated. She had mado a statement in which the public took a natural intorost, and hor honour was con corned in the matter. If she were afraid only one construction could be put upon tho atfair. The pationt said that sho had told the truth. The pain, swelling, etc., had disap peared, and sho had made her statement thinking it might bo worth something to tho doctors as well as to her. Dr. Coughtroy: But wo will not tako your word for it. The patient (indignantly) : And why not 1 Dr. Coughtroy : Bccauso the disease may still be there. Tho pationt then appealed to tho other medical gentlemen, with tho same result. Dr. Brown remarked that the affair was a challenge, and must bo decided properly. Mr Stephen :It is not a challenge. You Insist upon putting me in a hostile posi tion Dr. Stuart used his influence, saying that in the interest of ovoryono tho patient should submit. Mr Stophon: It is extraordinary it should happen just after I had touched hor. Dr. Stuart thought tho controversy should bo onded by the patient yielding. Dr. Batchelor said they would be satisfied if an examination wore only made by ono of tho three. Tho Mayor thought the request porfectly fair and reasonable. Though Mr Stophon ob jected to tha matter being called a challenge ; it really did amount to that, Tho patient: Well, I will do it. The Tictory thug won was, however, im perilled by the patient's femalo friend, who expressed grave doubts as to tho probity of medical gentlemen. They would not believe the patient's word—how did she know they would speak the truth ? The patient expressed the opinion that "as gentlemen thoy would, and retired, select ing Dr. Brown as her attendant. Dr. Brown, before leaving tho room, laid that c"en if what was produced by Mr Stephen were fo«nd to be cancerous matter, after microscopic examination it would prove nothing. If Stephen had cured this woman of cancer, ho was upon a level with Jesus Christ, and some light was thrown upon the miracles of 1880 years ago. After an interval Dr. Brown returned, nnd dotailed the result of his examination. He said :I am still con vinced it was cancer, it is cancer, and that it is not cured. Mr Stophcn : You admit that it is in a state of curing ? Dr. Brown : No, it has broken down, a procoss which occurs in such cases very often. The breaking down is attended by the results which have happened, and gives roliof to tho patient, but without affecting tho dißease in the least degreo. Mr Stephen : You have jumped at a hasty conclusion. Dr. Brqwn: Possibly, but that is my opinion, which will bo confirmed by any doctor who oxamines her. The cancer has increased considerably since wo last examined hor.

Mr Stephen doclined the challenge of fifty guineas to go to a charity, if he performed certain things required by the Faculty; nor would he go to tho Hospital and try his hand on patients thero, though th 6 medical man appeared very anxious that ho should do so.

THE CHRISTCHURCH COAL SUPPLY.

(BY TmHWRAm - PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Christchurch, this day. The Industrial Association is working ener getically with a view of securing the con struction of branch railways to connect a number of coal mines in the Malvorn district with tho existing railway system. At pro- Bent thero is no brown coal in tho market, the so-called roads from tho mines being impassable. A total length of nino miles would connect the four principal mines, at an estimated cost of £27,000. The haulage return is estimated at not less than £0,000 per annum. A special meeting is convened for Monday night, at which the district members are to be present.

It having been resolved to erect a new Anglican Church at Avondale, Mr E. Bart ley, architect, prepared pluns of a building to accommodate 150 sitters. Tenders havo been, called and the following received, but none havo yet been accepted :— Church Ohanccl complete. & vestry. Spire. W. A. Turk .. &">l7 0 0 £33 - T. Colobrook .. 480 n 0 - - W. and J. Forsyth 103 8 (i 90 £90 A. Beethaji .. 460 0 0 70 3!) J.H. Siflith .. 138 0 0 31 !!2 T.^ynch .. .. 431 0 0 91 25 A. Pattinson .. 130 17 0 109 15

STEAM YACHTING IN THE PACIFIC.

'11113 WAIKABAPA'S SECOND

CRUISE

COMPLETE SUCCESS OF THE EXCUR

SION.

[By Tin-; Stab's Special Cobrespondent.]

It will be within the recollection of tho general public tlmt the first of what wo trust may b j a continued series of cruises amongst tho numerous and interesting islands of tho wide Pacific, organised by that enterprising institution, the Union Steamship Company of New Zealand, was almost, if not entirely, a failure, brought about by a pimple single case of measles breaking out on board within a weckof starting. However, nothing daunted by this vexatious disappointment, a second cruise was at once set on foot, and it is our unbounded pleasure to bo able to report of thesafc return of thisnoblosteamer, crowned with complete success in the carrying out of this, her second tour. The only ex pression in any way approaching disappoint ment was that tho trip terminated too speedily ;in fact, .such was the unqualified delight of some that had six weeks or even more been added on to the time, thoirinterest would not even then have boon exhausted. Tho entire arrangements for the trip which have culminated so successfully indicated in a very marked degree tho careful and ex perienced forethought displayed by the managing director of the Company. Capt. Chathold was a selection displaying' con siderable judgment, as he has in a very marked degree shown special ability in navigating the dangerous coral waters of the Central Pacific. Everyone on board, whatever tho Captain's minor faults might be, folt complete confidence in him. The next consideration of tho passenger was his quarters, and the attention paid to Ills innur man. These, under the very n'llo superinten danco of Mr Rabbits, v• .■•• simply per fection, bordering on luxt ry in fact. Take ono instance: it is a question whether Vanilla ico creams, which Birch of Cornhill, in tho City of London, could not oxcel, were over before eaten in a similar expedition, certainly not off tho islands of Samoa, which was the lot of the passengers. The provisions were decidedly of the very best procurable, and there was never a chief cook afloat who did better justice in putting them into such innumer able shapes to tempt tho appetites of the most fastidious amongst us. Aa for the attendance, it was a marvel to all to wit ness the never-ceasing efforts to keep tho work under and supply tho wants of every one at any and all Yours, and this, without any diminution even in the hottest weather, when tho thermometer stood at 82 in the shade. There was only ono deserter in the ranks, who broke out into intemperance, and elected to leave the vessel at Vavau, in the Tonga Group. The refrigerating chamber carried tho entire stock of meats, from quarters of beef down to New Zealand sucking pigs and sausages ; also poultry of every description, with milk and butter. Not ono line was run-short of; in fact, presonts of sides of mutton were soon to go ashore at many of the islands for the friends who displayed much unlooked-for hospitality to the large party. Without doubt tho providoring arrangements ot the Company are in chargo of more than ordinary officers, judging from tho experience of tho trip, which has in every respect now terminated so successfully. There is another all-important element which cannot bo passed over, and that is tho machinery. Upon this, it may be eaid, every thing depended, and yet to such an ex cellent state of perfection was it constructed by the Messrs liennyV, and' so managed by the undoubted ability of Chief Engineer Mowatt that not one instance of anything approaching a breakdown has occurred. The responsibilities of this officer were of no mean order. The vessel's travelling, all our perishable provisions, also the distillation of water, all rested upon his shoulders, and yot ho ran his department quietly, smoothly, and without ono known word of disagreement amongst his able staff". Chief Oilicor Stott is unmistakably the right man in tho right place. He has had considerable experience in pleasure voyag ing, and gave no denial to anything asked for in reason, such as deck-clearing for dancing, boats for ferry purposes at any time (as thero arc no wharves for the Wairarapa to get to at any of tho places of call), launch expeditions, down to the care of tlio numerous deck chairs by his quarter masterß. These, in too many steamers, are looked upon as a nuisance, and frequently find a watery grave. Tho Company also provided a rcprcsenta tivo, as the programme of tour expresses it, to watch over tho interests and further the comforts and social enjoyments of the pas sengers. He, Mr VV. i\ Wheeler, un doubtedly succeeded. On arrival at each island of call, a general rush took place to the large notice board to see what informa tion he had gleaned as a guide to the shore expeditions. All proposals were well planned and successfully carried through, and not a breach or breakdown occurred of any moment to mar the general well being or the researches after pleasure and the rare sights of that hitherto little travelled sphere. The Passenger List. To the passenger list England contributed 18, Scotland 3, tho United States were re presenteU by a lady, 3 of the number hailed from Victoria, 5 from New South Wales, and New Zealand brought fortli tho balance of •IS, in all 7S souls, consisting of 19 ladies, 2 children, and 58 of the sterner sex. Although the majority met as perfect Btrangcrs to each other, yet during tho four weeks we have been thrown together not one disagreement came to the suiface to in any way disturb tho good harmony and kindly feeling which one and all admit un mistakably prevailed from tho hour wo took our departure from tho Auckland Wharf. Amongst our number we have the Hon C. Carnegie, of Scotland, brother of tho Earl of South Esk, tho Rev. Canon Tebutt, of Lincoln, accompanied by his wife, tho Hon. Captain Frasor, M.L.C., of Now Zealand, with Mrs Fraser, Dr. and Mrs McDonald, of the High School, Dun edin. The Roy. R. S. Risworth, of Oamaru, acted as our chaplain, and Dr. Payne,ofthoThames,althoughnotdesiringto have his freedom in any way hampered by officially undertaking professional duties, was ever roady in the event of an hour of need arising. Tho following is a complete list, of tho passengers aboard :—Messrs C. G. do Bot ham, J. H. Crossman, F. V. Grossman, H. Getbing, V. Gibbs, G. H. Gowring, H. Mc- Laren, J. S. McLaren, J. Patch, F. A. L. Popham, W.H. Still, J. M. Shaw, R. F. Smith, 0. G. Sandoru, Rev. Canon Tebbutt, Mrs Tobbutt, Mr and Mrs C. M. C. What man, Hon. C.~ Carnegie, Messrs R. Hen derson, 11. Millar, T. R. lcoly, Mr Mrs and Miss Kidman and child, Mr A. Kidman. Messrs D. Campbell, R. Fario, 11. F. Single ton If. Buckland, G. R. Bloomfiold,. L. R. Bloomfield, J. H. Good, C. A. Harris, junr, Major Mair, W, Motion, Dr. Payne, Mrs Payne, Miss Field, Mossrs P. \V. Donnar, W. K. Chambers, D. Downes, W. Finlay, Mrs and Miss Hirschberg, Messrs E. W. Kane, W. Seed, W. F. Wheeler, H. I). Gardiner, W. and G. Gerard, Mrs and Miss Gerard, Messrs W. Prudhoo, It. Smith, W. Tombs, Mr and Miss Twcntyman ; Mr, Mrs, and Miss Wil son ; Messrs A. R. Inwood, A. H, Burton, D. Drummond, Mr and Miss Swing, Miss Forsyth, Hon. Capt. and Mrs Fraser, Dr. and Mrs Macdonald and child, Mrs George McLean, Mr J. Thompson, Miss Wilson, Mr J. T. Wright, Rev. R. S. Rishworth, Mrs A. Smollio, Mr W, Indor, Miss Finlay. With this introduction to our steam yacht, hor oiliccrs, tho excellent arrange ments provided for tho cruise, I will," although feeling it cannot but bo an im perfect description, Give a Short Epitome, of Our Doings. Wo left Auckland shortly after 5 p.m. on Monday, 7th July, starting with calm, quiot woathor. There had been occasional warm rain showers prior to starting, tond ingtomakotheatmosphoro muggy, although the soason is mid-winter.1 Tho evening was taken up by each ono sottliffg down to his or hor respective quarters, and in tho ar ranging of tho cabin luggage The follow ing day gave us a continuation of the some calm sea and lino weather. All of us were about, and there seemed to bq a total absence of any inclination towards sea- i sickness. The manager of the tour took advantage •of this, and during the morning he went round to iih all and by short conversations seemed to pick out with very little difficulty those amongst our number who possessed talent and in clination for the organising of an evening entertainment, and mooting with encour agement, he was enabled to draw up an ex cellont programmo, consisting of two in strumental pioces, Bix songs, and three re citations. It went off in capital form, at tracting a full attondanco to tho end. This brought us closer together soflner than we otherwise should have done, and led up to the formation of a General Sports and Amusement Committee. Thirteen of us wero enrolled, and officers wero appointed ; also an executive committee, and amongst the most active must be men

tioned Me I. C. G. do Bethom, who took the' reins as chairman, and displayed SDecial - aptitude for the very difficult post - f^uva was reached at 2 p.m. on Friday, the 11th, after a smart run of 3 days 21 hours from Auckland, and two days were ■ spent very pleasantly in a completely sue ' cessful trip up tho Rewa River to the biV sugar-mill, and to the caves. A cricket match between a team of native Fijians and ' the passengers resulted in an easy victory for the Fijians. * The steamer arrived at Lovuka at mid day on Sunday, the 13th, and two days wero very pleasantly spent in visiting the town and its surroundings. It is estimated ' that fully £150 were spent by the passengerd ' '"'t at Suva and Lovuka in the purchase of curios. Vuna Point (Taviuna) and Mango Island furnished two very onjoyablo afternoons rambling through the cane and coffee plan; tations. Much hospitality was shown by tho managers at both places. T.ho Samoan Group. After a run of 535 miles, which we accomplished in 45 hours, fresh head winds were met with, and tho pitching motion Bprcad a fooling of dueerness amongst many V of our number, and this for the first titae sinco leaving Auckland. Tho atmosphere was moist, and the sun obscured by a cloudy sky. Spray freely came over the ' starboard bow, at times dropping clean ' over a conversational group, to the merri ment of those who barely escaped. In spito of these drawbacks, a concert and recitative entertainment was successfully held in the evening. 9 a.m. on Saturday morning, the 19th inst, found us safely moored off the township of Apia, in the island of Upolu. The pilot boarded us outside the reef after receiving into his boat a signed indemnity by the captain that no contagious sickness ' oxistedontbeship. This did duty for ahealth '% officer's visit. Tho launch was lowered and passengers ono and all soon faundj* themselves ashore. As tho day wore on tho natives freely flocked about with native-made-baskets ; also sholls, fans, and mats for sale, in addition to coral and the varied assortments of trcpical fruit. At times there must have been fully 150 to 200 - of the copper-coloured tribe about flocking ; through all parts of the ship. They were a fine stalwart-looking race, and it is a ques tion whether they or tho Fijians can take preference for general good build and ap- ' :,! pearance. As to character, it is said that the true Samoans have no more gratitude % or honour in their composition than the majority of semi-savage races. Any effort at trying to soften the natives by kindness ? is in too many instances labour in vain, • They construe kindness and leniency into fear, and need at all times to be dealt with by a stronij and firm hand. It is worthy ~.i of record, however, that although 100 to 200 Samoans were freely parading all parts of '■ the ship, even to our state-rooms, not ono ■' article was missed, and every cabin and berth had more or less nic-naes indis criminately ljing about which many a white man's hand in the populous cities of. "'% the world could not have resisted pilfering, A word or two abeut Apia. It is the capital of tho Samoan or Navi gator's Group of Islands, situated on the ' ': shores of a beautiful bay, which though , small, is deep enough for vessels of our size to moor in its waters. There are now several stores and houses occupied by Europeans, besides numerous huts con structed by natives independent of their own villages close by. Tho two largest mercantile and trading houses are of Ger man enterprise. The chief is the "Die :': Dutscho Ilandcls und Plantagen Gesells- v chaft der Suedseo Inseln zu Hamburg" (formerly Godeflroys), Theo. Weber being tho present resident managing direotor, .■$ They employ a staff of some 80 white people chiefly Germans, also from 900 to 1,100 labourers for cultivating some 5,000 acres of Maud chiefly in cocoanuts. They have agents ! throughout the Group, and employ or own several vessels for trading purposes, come of ;; which go to adjacent groups to collect copra, which constitutes their main article of commerce. The other chief firm doing business here is H. M. Huge and Co., also of Hamburg, but thoir operations are on a much smaller basis. Tho Pleasure Resorts of Apia. Tho town itself and the pretty walks sur rounding it breaks into much time. One party was formed to walk to the Sliding- Stone, a distance of 8 milts, so designated becauso a delightful slide may be made down' it into a deep pool of water 25 feet below. ■ The walk gives an idea of the country, but it is rather an arduous jgurney simply for; ' tho sake of witnessing the Stone, about the origin of which nothing is known. One featuro of Apia is the plentiful supply of fresh water. Running streams abound, . and hero and there are to bo found deop places where excellent swimming can be in dulged in. Those who appreciate ancient ruinsshould most decidedly visit the Stone House of tho God (the native name being "O Le Fale O ?';| Lc Fee.") It is about Bto 10 mileß distant from Apia, and to uudertake the journey comfortably a day and a-half should be devoted to it, a guido and a couple of natives for carrying provisions, etc., being secured. Having spent since early Saturday morn- .4 ing at Apia, a start was made at half post f four on Monday afternoon, the 21st inst., for Pago Pago (Pronounced " Pango "), ' situated in the island of Tutuila. The- -*? distance is SO miles from Apia, and we dropped anchor shortly after daylight the following morning. On entering the quiet waters of this land-locked harbour, the finest and most capacious in the South" -;:i •Seas, one is struck at the great resem blance to the scenory of the West Coastl ,*• Sounds of Now Zealand—the hills rising tip in bold form almost direct from the waters edge, ranging from minor hills up to others of 2,000 feet above the level of the seai», ■;- The dense tropical verdure on them is set off with indescribable grandeur when the] 1 sun is well overhead. Wo spent the whole of Tuesday here, and ' ■■■.-. up to 10 a.m. the following day, when a '"-, start was made for the Friendly Group. A U. ■ strong head breeze with a jumpy sea was met with In the run across. This hindered '.'•' our speed, and necessitated heaving-to on V Thursday night (24th). Another two Hours' ". daylight would have been sufficient to have- S taken us into Vavau harbour. The distance* ;-\ run from Pago Pago was 330 miles. ■■ At daylight on Friday (25th) we started . full speed. The approach to " Jl|B Vavau '"'-'■'■:■, took us through the prettiest scenery we had yot passed. It is studded over|with some 40 islands, .ranging, from single high rocks to those of larger area. The steamer was skilfully navigated through them all, • . and it was not until we were close up to the narrow entrance of tho inner harbour that a boat was seen making for the ship. -, Its occupant was Mr Galloway, a boat builder, who acted as Health Officer. On learning we were from Samoa* he ordered ■. us to go into quarantine ground, stating he held a document from the Vice-Consul of «■£ Tonga declaring Samoa an infected port.' . On our prnduoincr clean bills of health from both Li-v..i.i a. J Apia, and signing the. | Tongan Government form of indemnity, he j allowed us to anchor where we then were until he communicated with the Premier, the Roy. Shirley Baker, who with King • ■ George and Prince Wellington (grandson -■ of tho King and an neir to the throne) ■was residing for. the time being hi the Navau district. After a tedious suspense of over three hours, and brooding over tho feoling that a valuable morning; was being lost, tho boat was seen approach ing, the ship again. It' was the bearer of a: letter authorising release: Anchor was soon up again and ro-dropped off tho charmingrlooking little villaga of , ■ Naiafu. It is situated on a rise well rounded off, as it wore, from tho beach. Hills of no great horght snrround the town. The place looked like ono general botanical garden. Tho fine wide groves (roads is too common-place a name for thorn) had orange trees and cocoanut palms in hill bearing .S plan teddown each sido. Tho surf aceseemca ono uninterrupted mass of fine-bladed grass, | and with the sun shining from out of the clear tropical sky, Iho view from the Bhip's upper deck was ono never to bo forgotten. Hero wo were again completely land-locked, ■ and certainly from appearance it is a . harbour far beyond Pago Pago. Its draw back, I understand, is thealmost fathomless . _ bottom, and tho little anchorage ground thero is bad, and unfit to trust to in the hurricane season. There is an oxcellent j landing-place, to which our steam launch ■- plied to and fro at all states of the tide up; to 10 p.m. Tho King's house stands out in prom inence. It is, however, ono of those ugly architectural designs cut of European wild- ; wood and vine. There is a large mission station (Wesleyan), in charge of the Rev. Mr Watkins. The natives generally impressed us very n nfavourably; there was a shyness approach- . ing to oppression, and which we W®"^&^S able to correctly account for. Their-huts' wero generally of a dirty appearance, and what wo had nover witnessed before. ; in any one of the many native towns, both 'in the Fiji and Samoan Group?, padlocks, wero fixed'to nearly every," door. Another vile feature of civilisation was very marked in the wretched little outshede. Pigs were very, numerous, and seemed to , ; ; 1 have free run of the entire village. "•■ '■".*■ 9 ■ ' ■ ■

HUE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, SATURDAY, A UGUST 2 1884

2



Special Advertisement.':. "RICHMOND TTILL. 5 0 CHOICE ALLO.TMENTS FOR SALK, ON EASY TBHMS. J. T. BOYLAN, Colonial Bank. , LITHOGRAPHS NOW READY. JUST O P E" N E D, Another Thousand LADIES'AND CHILDREN'S FASHJi >NABLE WINTER HATS AND BONNETB, At tho Low Price of ONli SHILLING EACH, Worth from os to las. This Lot is superior to the Previous Ship ment, and comprise innny New Shados and Colour*. Ladies are requested to come and in spect theeo Goods before purchasing elsewhere, as they cannot possibly be equalled in any other Shop in New Zealand. Please Note wih Address— FERNANDEZ, DKAPER AND CLOTHIER, Karangahape Road, Newton. RBMEMBER ! THE PRICE IS 9NE SHILLING EACH. DF. EVANS, • AUCTIONEER, LAND AND ESTATE AGENT, Has FOR SALE Tho following BUILDING ALLOTMENTS— 1217—Brown-street—lo x 110, good view, £i per foot. 1078—Clarence-street—4o x 87, quite level, S3. 10s per foot. Church-street—33 x 100, splendid site, £3 per foot. ■ 1131—Cokkan-street—66 x 117-6, £1 per foot 1136-Colleoe Road—33 x 100, about, £7 per foot. 1203—Coromandel—33x99(Close to new wharf), 2 Allotments. £6 each. 1214—Clarence-street—lo x 96. £100. 928— Epsom—so x 130, quite level (near Junction Hotel), £3 per foot. 955-Gbeat North Road—3s x 100, 3 Lots (good position), £5 per foot. 1085—Glenbobn. Ponsonby—ll6 x 100, splendid view of harbour, £650. Hobsok-stkeet—Lots to suit purchasers, * £25 per foot 1171—ICeppel-street—2 Allotments with front age of 90 feet, £75 forjhe two. 1151—LrwooLN-BTBEET— U x 100, £3 15s per foot. 887—Mount Roskill Road—Allotments (close to Rooky Nook), from 28s per foot. 783-Nhlson btreet—66 feet frontage, £7 per foot. 516—Newton Road-66 x 99, corner of Exeter street, ti por foot. 1150—Norfolk-street—33 x 100, from £2 10s per foot. ; 1159-New North Road—2 Lots, each 132x230 £400. 1169—New North Road—JOx IJ6, Leasehold. 1195—Notrh Shore, Victoria Terrace—sJ x 109, £3 per foot. 1194—North Shore, Sunnyside— i Allotments, 40 x 83, each £30. £-£$ 1024—Parnell, Bradford-street— Allotments, in ftrst-clasß position, from £4 10s per foot. 1120— Pompaixier Tebrace— 45-7 x 100-6, level, £310s per foot 1173—PENROSB-^-S-acre Allotments, close to Railway Station. £50 per acre. 1199— Ponbonby Road—9s x 121-6, grand Busi ness Slto, <Sls por foot. 1200—PONSONBY ROAD—4O, £l 0 per foot 992—Qoeen-btreet, City—29 x 80, Bplendid view, Bl 5 per foot 1046—Richmond Road—4o x 88, 2 Lota, oach £150. 759—ShprtLand-street, City—Corner Lot, 25 ' x 115-6, £100 per fjoot 656—Summeb-btreet—4 Lots, each S3 x 99,15s per foot 77S—St. GeOrgh's Bat Road-55 x 140, several Lots, from £410s. 1161—Stuart-street—27xllO,nearlyallfenced, £80. 1166—Summer-street—33 x 98, splendid sites, «100. 1166—Bummer-street—33 x 98, splendid sitos, as per foot. 113&-Stanley-street—15x 110, beautiful view, """-" £2 lOi per foot. 1188—Sabsfield-street—Grand Building Allot ments, close to harbour. 1196—Stuabt-stbbet—4o x 119, good view, £110.' 1174-Union-stkebt—33 x 100, quite level, £10 per foot. 958—Valley Road—Allotment, 100 x lon, em. Valley Roah—AUJotment. 66 x 218. £150. 1189-Vebmontstreet—Lot, 40"* 100, £160. U72— Wallaok-street—so x 200, several splen did Allotments, £4 per foot 1215—Wellington-strkkt-56-8 x 100, corner v,f -Nelson-street. £15 per foot. West. Qujsen-stbekt—Grand Slto for Warehouse. A COMFORTABLE Homo for Gontle _c\- men in private family, near Queen-street; »o other boarders.—Addresa Elss, Star Office. BOARD AND RESIDENCE—A com fortable quiet home is offered for Three Gentlemen in a private house.—Mrs W, Best, E College ltond (»pposit.o England-street). "•\y ELLES LB V HOUSE BOARD. AND RESDDENCE. A Good Table kept, lofty and well-ventilated Badnoojns, Blunge and Shower Baths, anal every convenfßnce to ensure the comfort of boarders and visitors. Terms, fil per week. "M. MASON, Proprietress.; GOVERNOR BROWNE HOTEL • ; HOBSON-STREET. Board and Lodging _ _ _ 20s per We** Single Kooin _ ._. _ <. _ 25g per Wcx;!i " qCmCH, ON CORNS."-A* for Well* »B«gh on Ckipu.V ((lick nllM, complete, mmuuat cure. Corns war It. , ~ , KonpUwnu, rnuiwAOo., Agwito, Auckland, ; I



Special Advertisements. "VT O T I 0 E. Tho New Zealand Sugar Company (Limited) dosire to notify that they will bo prepared to offer Refined Sugars for sale in Sopteniber. J. E. BREWSTER, Manager. Auckland, Ist August, ISSI. piBKAHES OF THE EYE. \RTHUK RICHARDSON, M.D., * SPECIALIST AND OPERATOR ON DISEASES OF THE EYE, MAY BE CONSULTED AT HIS RESI DENCE. KARANGAHAPE ROAD. From 1 to 3 in the afternoon. After April Dr. Richardson wHI not intend in Town, but from 1 to 1 at his own Residence. \ / -y-HE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING I FACTORY I Display an Immense variety In MEN'S n.nd BOYS' CLOTHING, etc., made of the celebrated MOSGIEL TWEEDS, unequalled In VALUE and Superior Fitting. The most economical and durable goods ever manufactured. | Garments to fit evory figure always ; In stock. Auckland Branch: 168 & 180 QUEEN STREET. J. FITZSIMONS, Branch Manaqtr,



TMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT. CONTINUANCE OF OUR GREAT WINTER CLEARING SALE. W. be, *ffijffi&*s£Bsffi effect an , S HAVE FURTHER REDUCED OUR ALREADY VERY LOW PRIOKB, And that we are now offeringjour IMMENSE STOCK AT A LOWER RATE Tb*n similar Goods have ever been sold at in Auckland before. In our CLOTHING DEPARTMENT especially SWEEPING REDUCTIONS havo been made, And wearo now soUlngall descriptions of MEN'S TROUSERS AND VSSTS, SUITS AND MERCERY, &c FAR UNDER COST. Tho present, an opportunity very raraly offered of (setting tho very Best Quality of Goods at tMe v»ry Lowest Price, should be eagerly taken advantage of. Motk thk Address— X /^OSGftAVE AND Ci®., 204 AND 206, QUEEN-STREET QECOKD BEX OS THK GREATEST BON A FIDE SALE EVER HELD IN NEW ZEALAND. THE GENUINENESS OF THIS SALK or CLOTHING AND OUTFITTING REQUISITES OF EVERT DESCRIPTION, Has been borne out by the CROWD of CUS TOMERS during the past week, and especially on Saturday night. EVEUYONE WAS PLEASED AND SATIS FIED AT THE BARGAINS THEY SECURBD. THIS WEEK, FRESH GOODS WILL BE OPENED, AHI> THE SAME SLAUGHTERING CONTINUED. COME EARLY, AS THB PREMISES ARE * SMALL. MONSTER CLOTHING HALL, 214, QUEEN-STKEET, Opposite McArthok'b. T T E V V, V» .-*-' MANAGER. TIOS It! SOMMERYILLE, i-YJ. MILLINERY WARDROOMS AND STRAW-WORKING ESTABLISHMENT, wbllesley-Btheet, opposite Opbba House.



y^E FURNISH HOUSES THROUGHOUT. GARLICK & CRANWELL'B is TnE CHEAP FURNISHING WAREHOUSE. JUST OPENED, Beautiful Assortment BRUSSELS TAPESTRY, AND KIDDERMINISTER CARPETS. ——»—^—— ——— SPLENDID LOT OF BBDSTKADS, Just Received, IRON AND BRABS, NICKEL-PLATED. (JABLICK AND QXANWnL, FURNIBHING WABEHOUBB, QUBEN-BTREET, AUCKLAND, DR. WILK IN S, F. R. C. S"< Consulting and Opkbating Surgeon, Is at bis Surgery for General Practice, aleo Eye, Ear, and Throat Diseases, Mornings, Afternoons, and Evenings. Consultation Fees very Moderate. Dr. Wilkinb spent seven years at Mooroflelda Eye Hospital, London, under Messrs Bowman and Crichott, two at Throat Hospital, London, seven years Honorary Surgeon Albert Hospital, and eight years at Eye, Ear, and Throat In firniary.Melbourne. AdjustsspectaolestosicSits. —Consulting Rooms, Queen-street (near Post office), Auckland. AUCKLAND COLLEGE AND 2 GRAMMAR SCHOOL. Applications for a JUNIOR MASTERSHIP. at a salary of £150 per annum, will be received by the -undersigned up to August 25th. Par ticulars may be obtained by calling upon the Head-master, or writing to JOHN JAMES, Secretary. /COMMERCIAL SCHOOL. The undersigned beg to announce that they ' will Open on MONDAY, tth August, a Day and ; Night School as above. Home and Colonial experience. For terms and particulars oall at the School College Road. ' ij MESSRS G, AND W, PQQLEY.



-pOTOMAHANA HOT LAKKS. All arrangements made for intending Toun kSTB. Skats by Coach engaged, and ai com mo iliUion sooured at" Lakb House," Ohhioimitu. Auckland Agenoy: R. GRAHAM, Jun., 83, Queen-itreut. THE LIVER STIMULAMT.-A compound extract of euonomyn and podophyllin with Taraxacum —is INCOMPAHABLY THE BEST TONIC FOH DILIOUS ness, torpio LIV"< °v6" ps'*' li!;"""1!?! AND LOSS OF APPETITE. fcS. OP. rtrl BUI tLL