SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

tr-fin otatwr JThis Kvening. 8.13 H.«H WATER J To . morrow Morning, 0.2 StJ.lSin'.—This Evening. 5.41 SU ■'RTHTC.—To-morrow Morning. 6.13 MOON'S AGE.—Last. Quarter, !'ith. "J.TPJn,

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY. Thomaa Russcil. 0.a.. Helander, from Napier Rotomahana, a «., Carey, from the Pouth Christina, schooner, Evanaon. from Mongonui Reliance, ketch, HaulUiin. from T,iame3

VESSELS EXPECTED.

LoyDCW.—Waikato, ship 111. P.K.V.), June jb; . Antares, barone (P.H.D.0.), sailed June W; Loch Fergus, barque. July 2; Oamaru, Her mione, and Doric, loading. - GLASOOW.-Clansman, a?, to sail July la, « New York.—Nettie (via Wellington), April 15; Bleanor Vernon, barque, June 30; Eyror, barque, loading. Manilla.—Jerfalcon, schooner. J A VA.-Florence Treat, barque, sailed May. Southern Ports.-Armistice, barque. Gras inere, barquo. ketch Annie, and brigantine Prosperity, from Lyttelton: Louise Montgomery nrigantine; Caraille, brigantm6. from Dunedin, Northern Belle, barque, from Bluff, i Sooth Sea Hila.vds.—Pl.xplorer, Ryno, and Julia Pryce.

IMPORTS.

' Per Rotomahana—s7 sacks rye grass.—W. J' Hurst & Co.

Per Wenona—3ol tons Newcastle slack, 177 tona Newcastle coal.—W. and G. Wirstone.

Iswabbs Coastwise.—Progress, from W han gapoua with 23,000 f- timber; Rata, from Waiara, with M Iog3; Waitemata, from Whan gapoua, with 16 kauri logs; Opotiki, from Mer cury Bay, with 28,000 ft. timber; Lucy James, from Waiheke, with 50 tons wood ; Adah, from Thames, with lO.fOOft. timber and 300 bricks: afana, from Tairua, with 24,000 ft. timber: Paku fcom Tairca, with 25,300 ft. timber.

OCTWiRDS Coastwise.—Progress and Wai tetnata, for Whangapoua; Rata, for Waiara; Mana and Paku, for Tairua; Adah and lie liance, for Thames; Lucy James, for Waiheke.

A barque was signalled "outside Ttritiri" last evening, but has since passed out of sight.

" The schooner Mazeppa proceeds from here to Sydney with her cargo of copra, and while thera will undergo a general overhaul before returning to the islands.

The barque Italy, which arrived at Port Chalmers from Newcastle yesterday, had a very stormy passage. Ob Sept. 3 a heavy sea waa shipped, which smashed the long boat, galley and bulwarks, and also washed away every thing moveable from the deck.

The B.S. Thomas Russell arrived from Napier and Gisborno at an early hour this morning with 22 head cattle, 105 sheep, and 2 tons sun dries.

The b.s. lonic left Wellington for London direct at 1 o'clock on Saturday afternoon.

Captain Johnson, master of the brigantine Defiance, writes ua a lengthy letter about the recent race to Kaiparu. in which he still main tains that his vessel won. He saya first, that instead of the Nora leaving.! hours after him, he can say on good authority that she was under weigh 1} houra after the Defiance. Captain Johnson goes over the whole race agaia, but we have notspace to publishthewholeletter.which, however, is summed up in hia closing remarks, as follows :—"As I waa at the bar first, over the bar first, and at the mill first, I consider I fairly won the race; or if the race finished at the pilot station I was there first as well." The master of the steamer Kina informs us that his vessel was just outside of the Kaiparaßar when the vessels were coming in, and that the Defiance was then a long distance ahead of the others. It appears that the Defiance was twice abreast of the pilot station, while the Nora waa there once, and was each time carried back by the tide. The then, according to Captain Johnson, changed, and gave the Nori a chance to get past, while the De.iance had to stand over to the western shore. Aa .he pilot station, how ever, U five miles inside the bar. he does not think this alters the fact that he won the race by getting over the bar first.

ARRIVAL OF THE ROTOMAHANA.

via the South, this morning. Passengers :—Mr and Mrs J. L. Coster, Mr and Mrs Cox. Mr and Mrs Thomson, Mr and Mrs Brasaey, Mrs Mon son and boy, Mrs Waldron and child, MrsCraw ahaw. Mrs Ridley, Misses Johnson, Bennett, Russell, Archdeacon Williams, Major George. Messra T. Kerr, Hill, Gordon Allen, H. Arnell. J. Stewart, Fiterimons. Richardson (2), Trinder. Clarke, G. Dacre, T. W. Ley?, F. C. Somers E. Sander, Pearce, Yarborouah, Seville, Short. Edkins, J. Owen. F. Battley, X Brown, Deniel. Loran, Kipene, De Liutour, Saville, Ramson. A. Martin, G. A. Holmes. Sfceily, Weston. Cook (2), and 37 in the steerage.

LAUNCH AT WHANGAROA.

On the 23rd Aueust a very successful launch took place here, in the presence of a large number of tnc residents of the district, of a three-masted topsail schooner, named the Maile, bnilt by the well-known ship-buiiders, Messra Lane and Brown. Hersmart appearance in every respect does them great credit, and no doubt she will give a good account of herself under the able command of Captain Lane. The Maile has been built under a large shed, under Lloyd's special survey, for Messra McArthnr and Co.. and is intended for the South Sea Island trade. Her cabin accommodation is under a break deck, and when complete will be of a very superior kind, proriion being made for ample light and ventila tion. There will be berthing for about 15 passengers. The Maile's dimensions' are as follow :—Length. 127 ft.; beam, 285 ft-: depth. 12ft.; break-deck or poop, 33ft.; regis tered tonnage, 260 tona. There are two houses on deck—one forward of the galley, and one aft for a trade-room. Messra Line and Urown ha ye spared no pains in turning out this tine vessel, which speaks well for the appliances they hive at their disposal. In their premises arc to be St. en saw and planing machines, and appliances of all sorts for carrying on an estensi y e business. and wo hope to see them turn out many more such vessels. The Maile may be expected in Auckland in about a month, with a cargo of sawn timber.

KAIPARA SHIPPING.

Kaipara Heads, this day.-The three-masted • schooner Waitemata arrived on Saturday. HsLENaviLLE, this day.—The barque Jnles Marie having loaded here, was towed down the river yesterday by the Minnie Casey. — * TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING. Port Chalmers, Sunday.—Arrived: Huru nui, ship, Hasloward, 88 days from London. r ... ■ ■ ■ =

Chief Post-Office, Auckland.

Matls whx Close as undkhi-

This Day. For Chatham Islands, per Omaha, at 1 p.m. For Tanranga, Ohinemutn, and Opotikl, per . Glenelsr. at 4 p.m. For Russell. Kawakawa. Whangaroa, and Moneronui, per Wellington, at ;"> p.m. For Whitiangi, Upper Mill, and Tairun, per Rowena or N'eptnne. at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at .">.30 p.m. TCE3DAY, 9th inst. For Taranaki and Southern Ports, per Wanaka, at 7.40 a.m. For Tairua. per Mana, at 9 a.m. For Napier and Gishorne, per Thomas Russell, at 10 a.m. For Waiwera, Kawau. Omaha, Matakana, ana Warkworth, per Rose Casoy. at 10 a.m. For Watertord, Tauranga, etc., per Rotoma hana, at ;i p.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 3.30 p.m. Per Rotoraahana. as follow: For China, Japan, Suez, Rrindiai. and Continent of Europe, 3 p.m. For Russell, Kakakawa, Australian Colonies, and United Kingdom (via Suez and Brindiaj, or per Orient steamer), for letters. Sec. speci ally so prepaid and addressed, at I p.m. For Money Orders, Registered Letters and News papers, 3 p.m. Late letters for Sydney and Melbourne only at 4.20 a.m. The United Kingdom mail will be due in London on Tues-iay. 23th October. For Whangarei Heads, Parua, Waipu. Whangarei, Kamo. Tangihna. and Mangapai. per Macgregor or Waitnki, at 5 p.m. For Mangawai and Katwaka. per Ruby, at 5 p.m. . Tuesday, loth mat. Per 5.3. City of Sydney as follows :— For Navigators Islands Sandwich Islands. United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Centra), and South America, anc Bridah and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. Moner orders, registered letters and news papers, at 11.30 a.m. Lato lettors, bearing an extra feo of six pence in addition to th*« pontage, will be received by the Mail Agent on hoard the steamer up to the time of sailing. This mail will be duo in London on Sat ox day, October 25th, ;884. 3. B. BlS>>, Chief PoatinaHtu Chief Poat-otflce. Auckland.

Meetings Entertainments, Etc.

September 8, 1881,

Abbott's Onera House — WUhnoU'a Dramatic and Comedy Company, "Formosa," 7.45 p.m.

Auckland Institute-Monthly Meeting. I'apem by Members, 7.30 pjn.

St. Sepulchre's Mutnal Improvement Soeictj —Readings from and Criticisms on the Knglh!) Poets, 8 p.m.

Ponsonby Baptist Band of Hope—Anniversary Entertainment, 7.30 p m. Pitt-street Band of Hope Entertainment, 7.30 p.m.

Births.

CUMMINS.—On the sth Sept.. at the resilience of her mother, Victoria-atreet West, Mrs James Cummins of a daughter. KEEGAN.—On SeptemberGth. at her residence, Mira-atreet, Ponsonhy, the wife of C. Keestan of a daughter. Premature. PALMER.—On sth Sept., the wife of J. H. Palmer, Bond-street, Archhill, of a son. WEBB.—On September 3, at her residence. South-street, Newton, the wife of D. Webb of a son.

Deaths.

ANDKlsvv s.-un septemoer c, i«h, at tne car penters' Arms Hotel, Grey-street, after a short but painful illness, Geonje Andrews; aged 52 years. The funeral will leave his late residence at two o'clock To-morrow (Tuesday), 9th Sept. Friends are respectfully invited to attend. HOULTON'.-On the 6th Sept., at Roaetta, Epsom, Anne, relict of the late W. F. M. Houlton, and beloved mother of Edmund B Houlton; set. 82 years. The funeral will leave her late residence on Tuesday. 9th inst.. at 3 p.m. Friends will kindly accept this invitation. OLIPHANT.—On September 3, at Carran-street, Lawrence, infant son of Peter Oliphant; aged 1 year.

Interment private. SAUXDERS —On September 7th, at the Pro vincial Hospital, Thoma3 Sannders, late of Wairangi, Waikato; aged 58 years. SMITH.—On September 6th, at the residence of Mrs Watts, oi the Thames, Herbert Henry, eldest and beloved son of Herbert H. and Emma Smith, suddenly, of heart disease and inflammation of the lungs; aged 9 years. The funeral will leave hia parents' resi dence. Alma Villa, Lawcr Ymcent-street, Auckland, to-morrow (Tuesday), at half-past three o'clock. Friends please accept this inti mation.

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

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8. 1884.

For the cause that kMks assistance, For the wrong that aeeda reaistaaoe, For the future in the digtanca, And the geod that we can do.

Appointing a select committee to re port on the subject of route of the North Island trunk railway is doubt less a very convenient way of shirking Government responsibility in the matter, but it cannot be commended as a fair, effective, or satisfactory method of dealing with the question. The Minister for Public Works has given notice that on Wednesday iiewill move for the appointment of a committee for

that purpose, consisting of eleven mem bers, viz., Major Atkinson, Mr Bruce, Mr Fitzherbert, Sir G. Grey, Mr Gore, Mr Johnston, Mr Mitchelson, Captain Morris, Mr Ormond, Mr H. White, and the mover. To say that this com mittee cannot be impartial in its judg ment is only repeating a truism re garding all select committees. Though Auckland, Taranaki, and Wellington are Jvery properly represented, and a show of fairness given by including several Southern members, it is notorious that nearly every man proposed has fixed and definite views on the subject of the railway route. The ex-Premier, as a Taranaki man, is bound to favour the western, just as the Wellington mem bers are certain to vote for the central route. Of the two Auckland represen tatives, Sir George Grey is sure to make a good fight lor the Stratford- Te Awamutu connection, and Mr Mit chelson, though he has leanings towards j the central route, will, we hope, show; deference to Northern opinion on the' matter. Northern interests could be; uirged, but if the question is decided the best way for the welfare of the colony, we are sure the North will not 'suffer. In whatever way the Committee may 1 decide, however, it is safe to predict! that there will be a large number of dissenters from the finding, with pro bably a "minority report" on the sub ject, extolling the virtues of the re jected route, and bringing the whole question before the House of Represen tatives. We shall not be sorry at such a result, for the wider the determining

body i-i made the more likelihood is there of a correct decision being arrived at. One effect of placing

the question before Parliament will be to refer it to a body for the greater part free of provincial interests and narrow aims. The South Island members, with a few exceptions, will consider the rival route:; <>n their merits and fix upon the one which is best for the colony at large. .The friend:; of the western route are already active, and an influential petition from Taranaki lays before Parliament several weighty reasons in favour of that direc tion being followed. The greater the light thrown upon the question, the less favourably does the central line stand out. Its recommendations we have formerly pared down to one— that it would supply the shortest route trom Auckland to Wellington ; but even that distinction appears doubtful. The petition to which we allude states, inter alia, that while according to Mr Rochfort's report the central line from Marton to Te Awamutu would be 245 miles in length, it would be actually hco ' mile* slimier to go from Marton to Stratford and thence to Te Awa mutu. The only distinguishing features of the central route now left are that it would be the most expensive, the least serviceable, and quite non-paying.

Wr are not among those who have given in a slavish and formal adherence to the Dar winian doctrineof evolution—whoare enthu siastic over alleged discoveries which have an atheistic tendency—who arc prepared to swallow all the wild and fantastic state ments regarding the development of species which the apostles of materialistic science i might advance. But if anything could | make us accept the doctrine, it would be the wonderful change which has. como over the tone of our morning contemporary during the last few days. From utterly scouting and making light of the evolution theory, the " Herald " has become a convert to the doctrine, and displays all the zeal which characterises young disciples. If anyone doubts our statements (and the fossil con dition of the old lady in reference to things in general makes doubt excusablo), lot him read the following extracts : — From " Ueralil" of Frl- From "Herald" or thin day last. morning. 'The Darwinian " Darwin's Evolution theoryofman'sdescoiit, theory lias mado auch which scientist* have rapid and steady pro labonreil ao hard to greas that it i-t now ul prove definite and con- most universally ac cluslvo, is likely to bo ceptcd. [By Mr OiUl rudely exploded by an weil's discovery) it is important discovery clear that tho problem which has juat been lisa been solved, that communicated to the evidence has boon on- British Association's, uincrlshowinshowihe meeting at Montreal, mammals,theerovvnlng [The discovery regard- (,'rotip of the ani'ilal ing Australian mam- world, hav-w been mala] is aupposcd to evolved from those of indicate that man is lower Krade, an d but 'the apex of a affording at 'he aame column whose base time ■urthor ami im rests" —it may be on s^istible tnidencc in the bejewelled head of favour jf the doctrine ii toati. There are, it. of Evolution." would Seem, even at this time of day. more things in heaven and earth 'han are dreamt of in roost people's philosophy." Thus the theory which was to be " rudely exploded '' has made such " rapid progress " in three days' time that it is now " almost universally" established on "irresistible evidence !" Nothing more miraculous than this in the way of evolution has ever been assorted by the most advanced Darwinian. Just how the metamorphosis was accom plished willprobably neverbekriown, biltthe broad fact is established that the " Herald," from a position of the most unbending ortho doxy on Friday, has developed on Montfoy into a full-blown Evolutionist Whether that lecture in St. James's Church on "Christianity the Religion of Tli-a.-on" opened our contemporary's aye*, whether those other Sunday evening diseourfes on " Was Adam the First Man ':" and " Moral Continuity ' caused the change, or whether it was Mr Selby s farewell address to tho Rationalistic Association did the business, we scarcely care to inquire; sutiicent that | we know that " granny's " antiquated ideas have been rudely exploded, even though in witnessing the operation we give venf to rude explosions of laughter. In an article which our contemporary quotes this morn ing withevident approval,the words occur:-— " What the law of gravitation is to astronomy, tho law of evolution is now to natural science. Evolution is no longer a theory, but a demonstrated truth, accepted by naturalists throughout the world." This Is in tho most approved style of the en thusiastic Darwinian, and we heartily con gratulate our contemporary on its new found zeal for that creed which truly teaches tho descent of man

On the fourth page of this issue wo publish a batch of interesting correspondence, be sides Parliamentary and other news, crushed out of Saturday's Star, The Mayor of Napier has communicated to His Worship the Mayor of Auckland an acknowledgment of the thanks tendered for his timely warning during tha recent ."mall pox scare. He also takes the opportunity to praise the local authorities for their prompt and effectual measures to check ji possible spread of the contagion. Stock and sharemarket remains firm, comparatively little business doing. Sales today :—Colonial Bank, 435. Taupiri Coal in demand at 24a 6d. Shares : Prince Im perial sold at 2'2s ; Ivanhoe, 2s ; Martha Extended, Is lid, 2a; Darts, 3* 6d. No alterations in other stock. One of the large wooden cranes on Qucen atreet Wharf capsized on Saturday morning, owing to a faulty anangement of the ballast. It went bodily over the wharf, and considerable trouble will probably bo ex perienced in its recovery. Several men who were at the machine at the time had a very narrow escape from accident, and only saved themselves by promptly jumping to the wharf when they found it going over. The business at the Police Court this morning, before Mr D. B. Macdonald, J.P., consisted of the following cases:— Mary Lamb and James Armstrong (a boy) oa each ; Thomas Boucher, vagrancy, three months' imprisonment with hard labour ; Murdoch McLeod, disorderly and fighting in Cook-street on Saturday, 203, or seven days ; Wm. McCormick, drunk on Sunday in High-street. Prisoner's memory had failed in respect to the hotel where he got the drink. He knew there was a chimney to the house. 20s and costs. Up to 3 o'clock this afternoon Mr Gilberr, chemist, had received no less than forty-one entriea for the coming Baby Show, boys and girlsdividing thehonoura about equally. The Show promises to be quite a big affair. The regular meeting of the Onehunga Chamber of Commerce was held on Friday laat, Capt. Yates being in the chair. Tho revised rules were read, but their adoption was while the remainder of the evening waa devoted to a discussion of the Harbour Board question.

Mr George Andrews, lessee of the Car penters' Arms Hotel, passed over to the great majority on Saturday evening. He Bad been ailing for some time previously, but his death was nevertheless rather un expected. Many years ago Mr Andrews was well-known as a contractor, and more recently he took over the Carpenters' Arms, and conducted it in a most creditable manner. The deceased, who was well known and respected amongst numerous friends, leaves a widow and grown-up family to mourn his loss. "The North New Zealand Settlor" for September has been issued, and will be found fully up to the standard of this ex cellent publication. An article on " Orange Culture " is specially deserving of mention, but the whole of the contents wi]l be found most useful to the settler and agriculturist. The "Settler" deserves to have a wide circulation, and we should think the farm ing interest in the North Island might even support a larger and more important organ than this. His Worship the Mayor has given notice that he will move at the next meeting of the City Council .—"That the Governor be re quested, in term* of the Public Works (Amendment Act, 1881; (Ist) to make ( regulations for tlio inspection of milk I dairies, etc.; (2nd) to appoint an Inspector | under the same Act. Spiritualism appears to be making head way in the community. We understand that about 180 signatures have been ob tained to a requisition convening for Sun day next a meeting of persons interested in I the formation of a Psychological Society, j "for the investigation of occultism, includ ing spiritualism and mesmerism," etc. In the "Illustrated New Zealand News" for the latinst., there is given an excellent double-page engraving,entitled, "Tho 'Age Expedition Attacked by New Guinea Natives on the Mai Kasa River." Onr readers will remember the graphic word picture of this event which we published a few weeks ago, as supplied by Mr Kerry, of Auckland, who formed one of the party.

Mr Isaac Selby delivered his farewell lecture in Auckland lost night before a crowded audience in the Lome-street Hall, the subject of his discourse being "Is the Bible the Highest Guide to Morality ?_" This question, of coarse, he answered in the negative. In the course of an eloquent peroration he took leave of his Auckland friends, and aftor expressing the hope that he might be enabled to return after years of travel, commended to them the new commandment "That ye love one another." Both before and after the lecture musical tol'-f.t.ions ainl recitations were contributed by Miss Crawford and Mi* Amy John.-! (of Willmolt's Dramatic Co.), Miss Crawford rendering " Buby," and in response to an encore "Never More," and Miss Johns giving Ehrin on the Rhine," with "Caria sima" aa r.n encore piece, Mrs Leers also pang, while the choir executed a gleo very satisfactory. Miss K. Campbell and Mr W, H, Webbe played a pianoforte duet, Miss Alice Campbell and Mr George Camp bell sang a vocal duet, and Mr Teece (of Willmott's Dramatic Company) recited three pieces in goo I style, the best of the trio being " Papa's Letter. ' Tne proceed ings closed with the singing of " Auld Lang Syne."

An Oriental Bazaar, in connection with St. Paul's Church, Wellington, was opened on Saturday last. All the attendant ladies are drowsed in Kastirn attire.

The ordinary monthly meeting of the members of the Auckland Institute will be held this evening,in the Museum Buildings at a quarter to eight. Papers will bo read by Captain Broun, MrCheeseman, Professor Thomas, and Dr. Murray Moore will give the concluding portion of his essay on " Buddhism and its Evolution Theories."

The following tenders were received on Saturday, the 6th mat, by Mr E. Bell, architect, for three shops, to bo built in Hobrion-Rtreot for Mrs McKen/.ie :—George Hatcher, £1,879 (concrete), £1,517 (wood); Leigh Bros., £1,635 (concrete). £1,235 (wood); A. Martin £1,288 (wood); Wrig- Icy and Handcock, £1,267 (wood); Thomas Constable £1,520 (concrete), £1,137: Thomas Colebrook, £1,(00 (concrete), £1,188 (wood).

An excellent sermon waa preached last evening in t'so Pitt-street Wesfeyan Church, to a full congregation, by the Rev. A. Reid, on "True Womanhood," with special refer ence to the l.ito Mrs Buddie. The words of the text (Proverbs :)!, v. 30) wore : " But a woman that fcareth the Lord, she shall be praised." The rev. gentleman reviewed tSe Christian virtues of the deceased, who was one of the founders of the Ladies1 Benevolent Society. At the close of the discourse the choir sang Pope's! immortal ode, " Vital Spark of Heavenly Flame.''

Bishop Cowio lays the foundation stonaof n new Anglican Church at Avondale on Saturday afternoon next.

We have reeei ed from Mr O. C. Mcdee a copy of the poetic brochure called "A Glimpse at the Political Horizon." It com prises two poems, "Franklin North" and "City West," and describes tho recent electoral contents. The following extract from tho rirst-named of these is a fair sample of the whole :-

Ciiira.l:) creavi.-t, buckler, helmet. sliieW Tho Knight of ICawau In the Held : He'll ti^ht to death, anrl never yield. Although he's* old ar.d dry. Like lion roiiscl within his lair. The valiant ea*<le round did arum. And for the llsrnt did Grey prepare, Than Mow to Kranklin, ereaaglare, Where H-ria weak did lie.

(iisborne people have juat hold a public meeting to consider various public questions, and as a result Captain I'orter (Mayor), Mr W. ('.Chambers (Chairman of tho County Council), and Mr Kecs have gone to Wel lington, with petitions relative to Harbour Board, Railway, Native Lands Court, and other requirements.

Tho following were the scores of the players in the chess tournament on Thurs day evening last: — Ash ton, won 8, lost 4 ; Boylau, won 0, lost S, drew '2 ; Bruford, 10.-t l>; Burton, lost .\ drew I ; Cousins, won 4, lost."!: Out-lick, won ">, lost"); (ionic, won 4, lost 3, drew 1 ; flreen, won ti, lost !>, drew I ; Uosking, won 10. lost 3, drew 1 ; Jukin.«, won :',, lost 7, drew 1 ;

.lames, won '2, lost -J, drew .'! : l.usU, won 5, lost I, drew v?; Hidings, won 2, lost li, drew 2; Sloman, won 7, lost ?, drew I : Watkins, won 5, lost ."»; Wood, won "1, drew I.

At the baby show held in tho South, a gentleman and lady were requested by the nurse to allow the baby to compete. The request was refused, but the sanguine nurse posted ii:V •..ith the baby on her own ac count, returning with a live guinea prize to the gratification of the household.

At Duncdin on Saturday, eight boys, of

ages ranging from 10 to 15 years, were charged with stealing 30 ducks. The juvenile gang had gone systematically to work, and from tho proceeds of their plunder two of their number were living at a restaurant. The eldest of tho lot was a convicted horse-thief at the ago of 11, and he was now ,-ent to prison for a month. Other four of the*e youtli3 were "old neffnders," nnd now got various sentences of imprisonment, the three " first offenders" being discharged. For precocious villainy, Dunedin would appoar to "take the cake"

among Nciv Zealand cities

At a meeting of. tho Committee of tho Auckland Agricultural and Pastoral As sociation held on Friday afternoon, the general programme for tho Society's great November Show wna arranged, ft waa in timated that the following spoeial prizes had been donated : -Cup, value £I."> 15s, by tho New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Com pany, for the best pen of 10 sheep suitable for the frozen meat trade ; a cup given by the President for the beft thoroughbred entire, previous champion prizo-taken not to compote ; A silvor cup by Messrs T. and S. Morrin tor the best pen of long-woolled hoggets : £10 10s by Mr R, W, Brown for the be«t yearling got by Young Lord Derby ; £2 2s for the best working sheep dog, given by "A Friend " ; a silver cup by Messrs E. Porter and Co. for the best dairy co'v ; 20a byMrWickham for tho best cock; and a hat by Mr Fonton for the best pair of dorktngs.

Tho members of tho Hobaon Company

mot at Mount Eden Range on Saturday afternoon, and competed for the ladies' prize of a handsome silver cup. The weather was not so favourable as could have

been desired for the contest. Still, much enthusiasm waa manifested during the firing. On leaving the range (500 yds.), tho scores were :—C. Little, 43 ; Collins, 37 ; Stevens, 34 ; Clifton, 33; Jennings, 33 ; G. Little, 31 s and M. Jones (the present holder of the cup), 2S. Owing to the ties, Lieut. Clifton decided that the first round should be fired off, when Stevens, fortunately for him, succeeded in making a hit,, which brought out the black disc, and amidst great enthusiasm three cheers were given for Corporal Stevens, who was declared the winner for the next three months. The Hobson parade will be held this evening.

The National Cricket Club held its general niceting last Friday evening. The report from the Secretary and Treasurer was a verysatisfac'ory onx indeed, not only as regards the programme of matches gone tfiroufrh, bnt also in financial afliiira, having a credit balance of about £3 Tho following officers were elected for the ensuing season:—Mr J. Colebournc (re-elected), captain ; Mr O. Nicholson (re-elected),secretary and treasurer ;Mr 11. Brookes, delegate; and tho fo'lowing committee: Messrs G-. Colebournc F. Waters, A. Nicholson, W. Wrigley and R Wilkinson ; the offices of President and Vice- Presidents being left an open question.

D. F. Evans will soil by public auction at his land mart, Queen-street, at 11 o'clock to morrow those valuable building sites situated in Chapel-street, close to the corner of'Victoria street, and in the centre of the city, also magnificent building Bite at the corner of Wel lington-street and Nelaon-strcet, close to Hobson street, and commanding a splendid view. Also good building sites for villa residences in James street ana Brown-atreat.

For Thursday next a most important aale of furniture ia announced by Messrs K. and A. Isaacs, auctioneera. Over £2,000 worth of the beat goods in drawing-room, dining-room, and bcd-i oom suites will be offered, and this being one of tho largest consignments ever received here, will doubtless command a large share of attention. The goods are now on view at the premises of the auctioneera.

The Rev. Ralph Brown, whose racy lec tures on Phrenology and Physiognomy have attracted considerable attention, will re-deliver hia lecture on Wednesday at theDovonport Hull, an'l on Thursday in the Ponsonby Hall.

Tha anniversary soiree of the Otuhuhu Wealejan Church will be held to-morrow even ing, and after tea addresses will be delivered by Revs. R. liavin, .1. Mackay. W, J, Watkjn, and friends,

The members of tho Zealandia Chapter, S.C., are reminded that a Mark Lodge will be hold on Tuesday, the 9th mat.. at 7.30, in the Masonic Hall, Princes-street.

Mr G. W. Owen will deliver a loohire at the Pon?onljy Baptist Mutual Improvement Association, to-morrow evening. Subject: "Travels and Hesearchea in America," illus trated with diagrams.

Tho fifth anniversary of the Loyal Pon sonby Lodge of Oddfelllovvs, M.U., will be celebrated to-morrow evening, in the Odd fellowß' Hall, by a dinner and ball.

The North New Zealand Settler for September Contains, besides numaroua other aiticles of practical interest to every fanner gardener, and orchardist. a most valuable article on Orange Culture, written expressly for the Skttllk by MrO.E. Aldorton.embodyinganme of the results o' the. writer's recent investiga tions in Now South Wales on the subject of orange cultivation, unon which he has been apcoiilly commissioned to collect information and report by the N. Z. Government. To be hod at all booksellers, price ft!: aniraal subscrip tion, 6s.

DF.CUNE OF MAN.-N.non» Wcakus*. i>y, m »;*. tmwtsnce, S«iual Debility, cured liy"WeUi'» Health P-emner/ Kimvtbome. Prosier A Co.. AitmU. Auckland.

FRANCO-CHINESE WAR.

[CABLE.-COPYRIGHT.]

An Alarming Report Contradicted.

Lokdox, August 29. The report that Chinese troops had invaded Tonquin and massacred the French soldiers stationed there is now discredited. The Intentions of France. Any occupation of the Chinese mainland by the French ia considered impossible. Fooonow, September 1. Admiral Courbet has notified the Chinese authorities that he had complet3d his in tended operation 3 at this place^ The French fleet subsequently sailed, but their destination is unknown. The whole of tho Chinese defence works are in a miserable condition.

SUEZ MAIL NEWS.

(P.V TEM'XiP.APH, FROM BLUFF.)

The Federation Conference,

Londok, August 1. The Conference to consider the question of the Federation of the British Empire, com menced its sittings at the Westminster Paloce Hotel on 2Sth July, and was at tended by politicians of every shade of opinion. Many of the most distinguished men of tho day were present, including eminent statesmen (Home and colonial), members of both Rousch of Parliament, the Agents-General of a number of the colo" nies, and a number of prominent naval and military officers. The Right Hon. W. E. Fostor was president. In his inaugural speech he statsd that it was a common idea with all present to preserve the unity of the Empire. The question which wan before the Conference was not—Was it well to keep colonies? but How shall we keep them ? Mr Forster thought that the drifting away of the colonies would be unbearable on abstract grounds and unbearable on material ones, fcr experience had proved that trrdo followed the flig. As regards Hie colonial view, the proposed separation would be m hateful to the colonies as to English men. It was clear that the relation of England with her colon ies must ultimately end either in isolated independence or some form of Federal ITnion. The ultimate form of this Federa tion was not the main question to-day, but it was clear that any scheme must be ar ranged on principles of perfect equality and right.

Tho Hon. W. H. Smith moved :—"That some form of Federation is essential to the permanent unity of tho Empire; that a society be formed comprising men of all parties in order to advocate and support the principles of Federation ; that the Con fere-nee refer to tho Provisional Committee all details as to the establishment and or ganisation of tho Society, such Committee to submit a report to an adjourned Con ference next autumn ; that the Committee consist of the following members :—Kight Hon. W. E. Forster, M.P. (Chairman), Fredorick Young, Socretary to Royal (Colonial Institute, and Captain Colombo (Vice-Chairmen), Mr FrancU Labilliel (Honorary Secretary), Messrs Donniaton, Wood, Arnold, Forster, Finch, and Halton (joint lion, treasurers), Sir Daniel Cooper, W. J. Courthope, Alexander Stavely Hill, Sir Samuel Willon (members), with power to add to their number ; that copies of this resolution should bo transmitted to the Secretary of State for the Colonies, the High Commissioner for Canada, and tho Agents-General for the Australian Colonies and the Capo."

Mr Smith said that all parties regarded nur colonial friends, as Englishmen, and as such fully entitled to as complete a voice in the management and control of the affairs of the* empire as Englishmen. Federation had become inevitable in order to prevent disintegretation, but no system ol federation was in contemplation in the slightest degree interfering with tho domestic or local form of government.

IMPORTANT JUDGMENTS.

(BY TELKGRAPH.—PKKS.S ASSOCIATION.)

Dunedin, this day. Two important judgment.-* wero delivered by His Honor Judge Williams on Saturday in Bunco. The first concerned a claim made by Briscoe and Company against the Minister of Works for goods destroyed in the tire at the railway sheds last year. The .fudge held that at the timo of tho tiro tho Department had custody of the goods simply for the purpose of completing their contracts as carriers, and therefore incurred the liability of carriers and were responsible for ordinary lo.'-s.

In the case of Pearsall v. Lands Board, His Honor was Fatistied that several pur chasers were used as instruments by Jelli band and Co., also that there was evidence from which a jury might infer .that the purchasers must have been aware that they were not really taking up land on their own account. Tho appeal waa therefore d'u mi*?ed.

FOOTBALL MATCHES.

Ponsonby and North Sliore v. General Combination.

This match, which waa played on the Domain Cricket Ground on Saturday afternoon, proved, aa we anticipated, the best contest of the season, fully 1,500 spectators being present. The collection taken at the gates conse quently amounted to the respectable sum of H'Xi. Ponannby and North Shore were captained by T. Macky. while T. Henderson lead tha combined. Braund being unable to play for Ponaonby, his place waa filled by O'Connell, while O'Connor's absence having caused a vacancy in the combined team, his place was taken by Yon Stunner. The tosa was won by Henderson, and Youug ticked off for the Blues (Ponaonby and North Shore), and they speedily got the ball into their opponents' quarters. Davy got hold of the ball when near the lino. He was collared atnartlv, but almost immediately afterwards Wella secured a try for the Blues. The place-kick, a difficult one, waa given to Sims, who failed to score. Up to ihis the Blues had decidedly the best of the game, but tho combined team now worked much bettc, and play became both fast and brilliant, whilo the onlookers repeatedly mani fested excitement and interest by loud anil prolonged applause at each good bit of play. Whitesidc and Davy made frequent attempts to get through their opponents, and the Blues gave a fine exhibition of dribbling, whlio ihiir passing was really good, but they were well looked after, and on every occasion were pre vented from scoring until tho close of the tirat term. Shortly before half-time was called T. Whitcside got hold of tho leather in the Hluea' quarters, and by a fast run got past several of the opposing team, including hia brother, whom he paaaod with oase. Lccky tried the place-kick, but failed to put the ball over the oar, so tuat the scores stood even. Play having been resumed, Davy got the ball passed to him at an early stage, and secured a try very easily, hi 3 opponents being prevented from stopping him by tho crowd which pressed on the ground. Sims again took the place kick, which waa not a difficult one, but his attempt waa a great failure. Play waa resumed, and shortly afterwards the com bined team were unfortunate in losing Cooper, who was playing half-back, and had broken hia collar-bone. In the second term both Hides worked very hard, and play waa pretty even, until Bob Whitoaide, having got hold of the leather, scored the third try for hia aide. W. Warbriok tooK the place-kick, but like all previous efforts, this likewise waa a failure. Very soon afterwards another try waa aecured by the Blues by W. Henderson, and It. White aide failed to convert it into a goal. Davy, who had during the second term made several good runa, secured the ball a few min utei after play hail been resumed, and put another try to the credit Qf tho Blues, while he atill further improved the score by himself con verting the try into an unmistakable goal. Hia succeaa waa greeted with groat applause. Tho Blues continued to have the best of the game, and Whiteaide tried another run, but being brought to the ground soon, he passed to R. Skeen, who tocic the ball over the line and t-mohed down, Marshall w.ia entrusted with the placed ick, but failed to score, and the score stood at 14 points for the Blues against two points for tho Combined. Only a few minutes remained in which to finish the match, and the Conibinedappeared likely toauiferagreatdefeat, when McCaualand got a chance and potted a goalfromrhefleld. Immediately afterwards time waa called, the score standing—Ponsonby and Nort;i Shore 15 points (8 tries and 1 goal.) Com bined, C points (1 try and a goal from the field). For the victors, Messrs Macky. Young, Mountfort, Davy, Whlteside. Yon Suirmor, Warbrick, and Wells played in good style throughout; while the Combined found con siderablo support in Mnasra T. Henderson, Cooper, Lccky, Gardner,T. Whitesidc, Stewart, and McCaualand—the former having played a splendid forward game. Newton and Auckland Second fifteens played on the Metropolitan Ground, and the fatter won by a try against nil, Victoria v. St. George's waa playod at the North Sliore, and rosultea in a victory for tho former hy soven points to nil, Harnei-l v. Uokdos 2nd. — Thl3 matoh reaulted in a win for the former by six points (throe tries) to nil. For Parncll—Hill, Cole, and Hart, afcured a try each. For Gordon—Marrmer, Fischer, Dignan, and Snodgrass did good aervioo, Mahiikau v. An AW a resulted in a win for the former, the soores beingo to nothing at oall of timo. Dawson obtained the try, whlcfi Latimor converted into a. goal.

CABLEGRAMS.

[b\- cable.—copyiught.]

LoSBOS', September 7 The Imperial Meeting.

The Emperors of Austria, Germany, and Russia will meet at Vaiernievice (ate). The Franchise Agitation. Mr Trevelyan, Chief Secretary for Ireland, addressed an immense meeting at Glasgow on the Franchise Bill. German Annexation in Africa. Germany has made a further annexation" on the West Coast of Africa, thus hemming in Wallfisch Bay, recently annexed by the Cape Government. The New Oriental Bank. Londok, August 2!).—The first issues of shares of the new Oriental Bank are now being alloted, and the bank will open on the 2nd. prox. St. Petersburg, September 3. --Vigorous measures have been adopted at Warsaw for the safety of the Czar whi'e in that city. Cape Tows, September .j. —l'iet Joubert has been elected President of the recently proclaimed Boer Republic in Zululand. Austria and the Scmtn Seas. London', September!!. —Jlei-rVonJanizen, of the Austrian Consulate at Smyrna, will shortly leave in a man-of-war on a visit to the Australian and tho Pacific Islands, to report upon the facilities and desirability of opening up trade with those places. Australian wheat cargoes on the passage are quoted as 355, off coast cargoes Gd less. The market is quiet, and the demand is in active. Teemer ChallenKCii Haailan and Beach. Teeme-r, tho Hcullttr, has challenged Hanlanand Beach to row a race in England for £"jOO ft-sidu.

Frozen Meat Trade.

The cargo of frozen mutton ex steam ship Bombay has been landed in excellent condition. The Mataiira's cargo of frozen meat is realising ojd per Ib.

London Wool Sales.

At the wool sale to-day, soft small-haired greasy realised from hd to Id above the June closing rates. Crossbreds superfine and Sydney, Queensland, and Western Australia gre.i-y wool were much firmer. Rough ill-bred "aro easier. 240,030 bales were catalogued, of which 14,000 were withdrawn.

THE KHARTOUM EXPEDITION.

(BY CABLE —COPYTUCIHT.)

London', September 0. A VKH.HKL, containing a cargo of boats in tended for use on the Nile in connection with the projected British expedition into the Soudan, will leave London on Monday. The remainder of tho boats will be sent to Kgypt shortly.

Repulse of the Rebels.

Alexandria, September 5,

News ha.-) benn received that tho Arab rebels recently made a vigorous attack on the town of Kassala. They were, however, repulsed by the Egyptian garrison with heavy losses.

" ai:e " specials,

Why Lord Wolseley Takes tho Command,

Losljoj;, August 2Sth.—lt is authorita tively explained that tho reason lor despatching Lord Wokeley to Egypt to take the supreme command of the troops in that country is that Lieutenant General Stephenson, the present commander has declared an expedition via the Nile to im practicable.

THE LASTINGHAM DISASTER.

Visit to the Wreck

(HV TKLKiiliAl'lt. — [TIES:; ASSI'ICUTIuS.)

Wklmn<;ton, this day

The steamer Napier returned from Jaek son'n Head this morning, but, on ar. count of the weather, was unable to get round to the side of the head on which the *hip struck. I'arties were landed on this t-ide of the head, and crossed over tho hill* to where the vessel lay, and found her lying on her port bilge, with her deck slanting seaward, and a mast standing out of the water.

The Three last Found Survivors.

Blenhkim, this day

Tho three shipwrecked sailors will leave Picton for Wellington by next boat. Their names are: Thomas Chalmers, a native of the West Indies ; C. Alvarez, a native of tho St. Michael islands ; and tieorge Henry Ward, a negro, born in the United States. Chalmers has often traded in the Sounds, and has been shipwrecked before in various parts of the world. Alvarez was once ship wrecked off Mauritius from a cattle ship, and got ashore on the back of a cow. The three sailors were interviewed yesterday, and gave long accounts of the wreck and their subsequent adventures and privations till taken oil by a schooner, and brought in the steam launch to Picton. Ward appears to have subsisted for twe or three days on tallow candles, washed ashore from the vessel.

Serious Allegations Against the Captain-

All three men speak well of the ship and officers, but Ward says the captain drank hard, and he has seen him unable to stand, though he cannot say how the captain was on the night of the wreck. <!rog was served out to the men occasionally. The three men none the worse for the shipwreck, and speak highly of the kindness of the captain of the schooner, Mr Jones, the settler who sheltered them on Friday night, and the authorities at Picton. Ward's opinion is that tho officers could handle the ship better than the cap tain, and that had the former had charge she would now be at Wellington Wharf. Ward was the look-out man on the Head*, and says one of the passing steamers waa so close that he could distinguish the man at tho w heel, and the officers on the bridge.

LICENSING COURT.

Ti* quarterly meeting of the Licensing Court for the Grafton district was held to day. Present : — Messrs Mackeclinie (Chairman), Aickin, La Roche, and Layer. Mr Stoney, clerk.

Application.—Mr Cotter applied on behalf of Mr James Hawkins for a transfer of the licenso of the Queen's Hotel from Miohael O'Connor.—Superintendent Thor n offered no objection to tho applicant, who, he believed, had done his best. He might mention, however, that the granting of the extension of time until 11 o'clock had been somewhat inconvenient to tho police, aa it necessitated the placing of an extra constable there on Saturday even ings.—Mr Layer considered that an extra constable in the locality would be of greater service on Sunday nights, although Mr HawUina had nothing to do with the drunkenness which prevailed on the Sunday. —Mr Aickin complained of the urinal by the side of the footpath, but which tho appli cant would remedy.—Mr Cottei suggested the proprioty of extending licenses generally to 11 o'clock, which would remedy effects of which complaints had been made to Mr Thomson, —The Chairman did not agree with Mr Cotter's suggestion. The exten sion should only be granted where it was re quired.—Tho application was graeted.

MINING NEWS.

(liV TKL.ECIRAHI— OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Thames, tl.i-i day,

Information |to hand from Waihi district reports an important improvement in the Martha Extended mine. The reef in the low level shows gold freely, and tho quartz is shaping at the battery for more than an ounce to the ton. This Company lias for the last two years been working upon crashing dit t of about 4dwts. per ton, so that the present discovery opens to it an entirely new field of operations.

Caledonian Low Level.—Another well mineralised reef a foot in thicknesß has been intersected by the prospecting crosscut at the 640 feot level.

New Eureka (Otanui).- About SOozs. amalgam, resulting from the treatment of the tailings, are on hand.

CANNIBALISM AT SEA.

FEARFUL SUFFEBINGS OF SHIP-

WRECKED SAILOBS,

(BY CABLE-

-COPYRIGHT.)

Lontion", September G. A BOAT containing three men belong ing to the yacht Mignonette, bound from London to Sydney, but abandoned at sea, was picked up south of the Equator. A boy who left tho yacht with the others died on the nineteenth day after abandoning the vessel, and was eaten by the survivors.

(Received Bth, 10.30 p.m.)

Losdon, September 7.

The yacht Mignonette was the property of Mr Henry Want, solicitor of Sydney, and was swamped by a heavy sea. The boat with the occupants drifted about 24 day 3 with but little provisions and scarcely any water. The Monteznm, which picked up the survivor?,conveyed them to Falmouth.

SPORTING NEWS.

BETTING ON THE MELBOURNE CUP.

[r-.1-XTEIl's CAEI.KIJE.VJI.]

Melbourne, this day. Thk following is the latest betting on the Melbourne Cup:— 17 to 1 apalMt Bargo ■.'I i.j l - LeGrand •JO to 1 — Tremando ■2.-, to t — Hilltop -lv> to I — OirColour 25 to 1 — Sir MoUred :''i to l — the others.

ANGLO-AUSTRALIAN CRICKET.

Victory for the Colonials.

[RV OABLK.-COPYRIGHT.]

Lij.vdox, September <>. Thk cricket match .it Scarborough, the Australians v. Zin ; _'iri, was continued y B terday and finished to-day. The Austra lians, with one wicket down for 24, con tinued their first innings, which closed for a total of 2:;i:S, four runs ahead of their oppo nents. TII2 highest scorers were Oiffen, c, 3+v Midwinter, c, 20; Spofforth, c, 49. The Zingaria then went to the wickets for their second innings, and when time was called they had lost three wickets [or 45 runs, of which number A. G. Steele contributed 20 before being caught. In their second innings they only succeeded in putting together 140 runs, thus leaving their opponents with 137 to make to win. The required number was obtained with the lo^s of only two wickets, and the Aus tralians thus won by 8 wickets. The highest individual scorers of the day were as follows : —Zir.gari: Patterson, b, 2ti ; St'idd, b, 28 ; Christopherson, c, 14. Australians : McDonnell, c, 07 ; Murdoch, not out, 36 ; Scott, not out, 15.

The team of cricketers whom Lillywhite proposes to send to the colonies next season does not include the names of any gentlemen players.

ABBOTTS OPERA HOUSE.

Willmott's Dramatic Company in

Formosa.'

;' Fdkmusa ; or the Railroad to Ruin," was produced by Willmott's Dramatic Company !it the Opera House on Saturday evening, before a large audience, both a tails and pit U:ing full,' while tho circlo was fairly patronised. The drama, which is a powerful representation of fust life in London, introduces many intereiting scenes and character?, the principal of which, of cour.-e, in Formosa. The fir-it act introduce.- her as the plain and tidy daughter "Jenny" behind the bar of a "public" kept by her poor but honest parents. Later on it is shown that she had prior to this been lending a very fast life in London, and as the play progresses she returns to those gay and festive scenes, where she has a great number of wealthy admirers. In consequence of threats made by two villains that they will expose her London career to her parents, who are in ignorance of her downward career, Formosa consents to become an instrument in the ruin of a young man named Tom Burroughs, a former' lover, and stroke of the Oxford crew. This is almost accomplished by the young man's arrest on a trumped-up charge immediately prior to the great race be tween Oxford and Cambridge, when the hopes of the former depended on him. Formosa, however, relents in time, ex ]K*=e.-i the villainy of those who seek Tom Burroughs'* ruin, he takes his place in the crew, and Oxford wins. Thus all is brought to a satisfactory conclusion. This of course is a very imperfect outline of the play, which introduces a great number of in cidental attractions. The preparation so far as scenery is concerned was most credit able to all concerned, the scene on (he Thames River, painted by Mr Thornton, being a feature which drew fiom the audience a hearty round of applause. The play requires a-large num ber of characters, and these were provided, even to a gang of larrikins tormenting a ps tient bobby. En passant, that policeman was the most patient ''mimber of the t'ooree" we have ever seen either on or off the stage. The orchestral music provided by Edio and band was well rendered, and generally speaking Mr Willmott had made excellent preparations for the somewhat ambitious undertaking, which, however, was most creditably, gone ! through. The cast of characters was as follows :—Dr. Doremus, Mr F. Simmonds ; Lord Eden, Mr 11. Teece ; Compton Kerr, MrO. Balfe; Major Jorum, Mr ft. Rede; Sam Boker, Mr J. Wilkinson; * Bob Saunders, Mr F. M. Willmott; Cobb, Mr G. Doyle; Spooner, Mr F. Simmonds; Dudley, Mr Jenkins ; Welch, Mrß. O'Neil; Murray, Mr James A. O'Byrne ; Mrs Boker, Miss A. Johns; Jenny, Miss L. Crawford ; Edith Burroughs, Miss 6. Duke; Nelly, Mis 3L. Lawrence; The Countess, Miss K. Howarde ; Mrs Dudley, Miss L. Wyatt. In addition to these Messrs Smith, Scott, Thomas, Aitkens, Wilson, Morton, and Collins, along with Mr Teece, went to repre sent the Oxford eight, which during the performance sang a jolly boating song while seated "n a form, and keeping time as when rowing. Messrs Balfe and Rede appear early in the play, and speedily earn a reputation as twin villains, which they ably sustain totlieclose. Wehave seldom seen the former play so well, while Mr Rede, although a little awkward at first, graduallydeveloped into a capital representative of the un scrupulous Jorum, and won frequent applause. Mr Wilkinson played Sam Boker, as ho has played many more difficult and important characters, with an .idmirablo conception of the part, and it would be difficult to point out wherein he could have improved. Aa Tom Burroughs, Mr Teece had a part for which °he was well adapted. He looked the part,and gave it a very fair interpretation. Mr Willmott's Bob Saunders was good, but riot up to what we expected, his attention at times being tvidcntly somewhat re moved from his part by his anxiety in another character, namely, that of man ager. This no doubt will work off in futuro performances, Mr Willmott having been off the stage for some considerable time. Mr Simmonds, as Dr Doremus, was evidently ill at ease, but he acquitted him self very creditably in the more important character of Spooner, and caused much amusement by his absurd attentions to tho gay Formosa, whoso desire was usually that he should "go away." The acting of the remainder of tho gentlemen was very pas able, although one or two good points were insufficiently- brought into prominence. Miss Crawford as Jenny was a really loving daughter, kind to the old folks, and anxious to behave well, while when trans formed into tho Formosa she ably depicted the gay and worldly woman, and acted well the deceitful and objection able part which shn was called upon to per form in connection with her friend Tom Burroughs. Miss Lawrence was fairly successful as Nelly, but failed, as she very ofton does, to sutiiciently sink her individu ality. Miss Johns was a decided success as Mrs Bokor, while Miss Duke and Miss Wyatt both looked woll.andtook their parts with credit. One very pleasing item intro duced during the evening was a highland schottiche in costume by Miss Georgie Wat son, a very clever young lady, whose per formance quite " brought down the house," and secured a most emphatic encore. " Formosa " will be repeated to-night.

POLITICAL GOSSIP.

(BY TELEGRAPH.-SPECIAL REPORTER.)

Wellington", this day. Deputation on Goldfields Affairs.

Messrs Pyke, Guinness, J. C. Brown, Bevan, Hurathouse, Seddon, Cadmaa, Morris, and Colonel Fraser waited on the Premier on Saturday, and brought under his notice the recommendations which had been agreed to at a meeting of goldfielda members. The first of these was the question of abolishing the duty on gold, and also a reduction being made in the cost of miners' rights and business licenses. The Premier pointed out that to do these things would lead to a loss of £30,000 to local bodies, and the question arose, how waa this deficiency to be made up? Several members of the deputation said that the local bodies did not now require the revenue, the most necessary works on goldflelds having been executed. Mr Stout promised to confer with bia col leagues on the subject. The deputation further a?ked if Government would place on the Estimates the sum of £20,000 to assist local bodies in opening up roads, etc. The Premier said the consolidated revenne could not afford to pay such a sum, but he promised to support the movement to have wardens removed periodically. He also agreed with the deputation that an addi tional Minister should be appointed to look after mining interests. The Financial Statement. There is just a possibility that the Finan cial Statement will be down at the end of this week. Serious Illness of a Member. Mr Fisher, the member for Wellington South, is now said to be dangeraualy fl]. Two doctors are attending him. Reducing the Armed Constabulary. The question of reducing the Armed Constabulary is ui.der the attention of the Defence Minister. The current report ia that it was proposed to reduce it by one half, but nothing definite has really been decidir! ;, 1 s ,a matter has not yet been before i.uc (Jauiuet, although Ministers are aware that proposals for reduction will be made. The Maori Minister. The report which I wired on Saturday of Wi Pore's proposed addition to the Cabinet proves to be substantially correct, although it was discredited at the time by some of the " knowing ones." Surprise is expressed at his selection by the natives, a* it was believed that Wi Pere's connection with land matters on the East Coast would have told against him. Taiaroa was looked upon as the most likely man, but the rumour a short time ago was that he intended to proceed to England to prosecute extensive claims to lands in the Middle Island.

The Claim of Thames County Council.

Mr Brodie has been energetically press ing on i lie attention of the Government the claiiit of Thames County Council to alleged arrears of about £8,000. Mr Sbeehan is now engaged in drafting a bill to provide for the payment of the money. Post-office for Manurewa. Yielding to the solicitations of Mr W. F. Buckland, the Postmaster - General har agreed to open a post-office at Manurewa Railway Station, and instructions to that effect have been issued. Inspectors of Schools. Mr Smith's School Inspection Bill pro vides that all school inspectors shall be ap pointed by the Governor; that once every three years the school inspectors shall be moved from one educational district to an other ; that the salaries of inspectors and all the cost of inspection shall be defrayed by the Minister of Education, but shall bs recoverable from the Board 3.

Thames and Te Aroha Railway.

A deputation consistingof Messrs Brodie, Fraser, Cadman, Sheehan, and Morris waited on the Premier on Saturday, and secured a promise that the Government would either give land for the railway from Thames to Te Aroha, or would bring in a bill to provide for its construction. Mr J. B. Whyte would have formed part of the deputation, but was unwell.

Sir Julius Vogel Criticised.

The " Times " attacks Mr Stout and Sir Julius Vogel for their action respecting tho Plurality of Votes Bill. It says: —"Sir Julius Vogel, like Mr Stout, preferred to trim rather than stand boldly by his opinions. The time waa inopportune for saying plainly that plural voting, as it exists in the system in force in this colony, is fair and reasonable. Thus we find him opposing Mr Barren's bill, but giving insufficient reasons for bo doing. With a Ministry after his own heart, and a strong majority prepared to do his bidding. Sir Julius Vogel would havo treated the House to a very different deliverance concerning plural voting. No doubt he would have opposed the bill, but he would under sach circumstances have made no secret of his real reasons."

Mr W. L. Ree3 is here in connection with some GUborne matters.

The Hon. Mr Nurse is going to arge on the Government to take steps to prevent lada under a certain age from carrying firearms. He proposes a gun license. Proposed Legislation of "Swe ps." The object of the bill which Mr Fitzher bert has given notice of to amend the Gaming and Lotteries Act is to legalise small " sweeps "on racecourses. Indivi dual stakes are not to exceed £1. A Discreditable Rumour. It is asserted by Ministerial supporters that tyro days before leaving office the lafe Atkinson Government let a contract of £15,000 for the construction of a section of the Brunner-Nelson Creek Railway, in Mr Guinne?s's district, and another of £8,000 on the Catlin's River Railway, in Mr Thom son's district, in order to secure their sup port. I saw Mr Mitchelson on the subject to-day. Ho denies that the Brunner- Nelson contract is let at all, and says the Gatlin's contract ia let conditionally on the lowest tenderer's acceptance. The Barmaids' Friend. The Hon. Mr Chamberlin has com menced his annual crusade against bar maids. He will to-morrow ask the Council to affirm that the licensing law should be amended so as to prohibit the employment of women or girls in the bars of licensed houses.

Napier Poultry Show, held on Thursday, 2Sth ultimo, has proved almost as great a success a3 that held in Auckland in July last. Notwithstanding the distance, some of our local breeders competed and took prizes as follows:—Dark Brahmas (young hen), F. Goodacre, highly commended; Plymouth rocks (six months old), 2nd prize, Thomas Gresham (Te Awamutu); Anda lusians, very highly commended, H. E. Martin; pigeons"(beards), 2nd prize, F. Goodacre ; ditto, very highly commended, F. Goodacre; Antwerps, highly commended, F. Goodacre. For the credit of pur Auck land exhibitors it should be mentioned that in no instance did they send their best birds, not wishing to risk them on the long and stormy voyage.

At the quarterly sitting of the ParneK Licensing Court on Saturday (Messrs J Winks, F. Ireland, Barber, and Ledger pre" siding), an extension of tho hour of closing from 10 to 11 p.m. was granted in the case of the Exchange, Windsor Castle, and Alex andra Hotels.

Mr James Milner, auctioneer, Dunedin, and an old resident of the colony, died on Saturday afternoon from a paralytic stroke.

We are informed that during the last week steam has been seen issuing from tne crater of Mount Mongonuiat the mouth of Tauranga harbour, and that it has attracted a good deal of attention amongst those in the vicinity.

A lecture on "Christianity the Religion of Reason" was delivered at St. James's Church last evening by the Rev R Somer ville. The reverend gentleman took for hia text Paul's Epistle to the Romans, 12th chapter, and Ist verse, and then went on to prove that Christianity was the true religion of reason. It was, he said, founded on the resurrection, which was a well authenti cated fact, seen and recorded by the evangelists, and he then drew attention to the spread of Christianity, to its having survived the most bitter antagonism, and finally expressed his conviction that this was the true religion of reason. The preacher referred to the religion of Ration alists and Freethinkers as one which refused to accept well authenti cated facts because they were un pleasant to them, while they really were not guided by those facts which lead others to believe that Christianity was the true religion of reason.

Christchurch Chamber of Commerce, by a resolution passed on Friday, has proved that the majority of its members are imbued with correct ideas regarding Free Trade and Protection. After considering the move ments being made for the imposition of protective tariffs, the Chamber resolved to represent to the Government that " it would be an economic mistake, and opposed to the interests of agricultural^ pastoral, ami mining industries, as well as to the interests of the public generally, to legislate further at present in the direction of increasing existing or imposing new Customs duties for protective purposes,"

THE AJC&LAiiD £\EMJSG S2AR, MONDA* SEPTEMBER 8, 1884.



Special Advertisements. TM P 0 R T A N T NOTICE. BUSINESS CHANGED HANDS. F. D. WOODROFFE HAVING ! PURCHASED FOR CASH THE ENTIRE STOCK-IN-TRADE OF GENERAL DRAPERY AND TRANSFER OF LEASE ! FBOM W. E. WALL & CO., QUERN-STREET, AUCKLAND, AT A LARGE DISCOUBT OFF COST PRICE, •WILL TO-MORROW, TUESDAY", SEPTEMBER 2, COMMENCE AN IMMENSE CLEARANCE SALE, DURING WHICH THE ENTIRE STOCK, AMOUNTING TO CLOSE ON £4,000, WILL BE SOLD AT m HALF ORIGINAL PRICE "Ea For farther particulars see Hand-kills. Note the Address : Tji T) \yOODROFFE (Late W. B. Waix & Co.), QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND. | _ , SPLENDID VARIETY. NEW SPRING GOODS, WILLIAM B. BRIDGMAN Desires to Inform bis Customers that he Is now Showing a IBEAOTIPOL ASSORTMENT OF NEW GOODS FOR THE COMING SEASON. Very Choice Patterns of New Prints, from 2?d yard, to the Tory best The Now Roverslblo Prints, choice patterns Newest Designs in Sateens, very pretty goods Splendid Assortment.Now Dress Goods In great ■variety, very low in price Largo Assortment New Laco Goods. In whlto, ivory, cream, ftcj real Maltese Lace, from 7Jilyard Job Line Coloured Dress Beiges, bought low, sold cheap Nloe Goodsjn Black Brocho Satins New Pdtternß in Cretonnes, from 43d New Antons, Ribbons, Gloves, Collars. Ties wholesale price by tho piece »•""«'"«» , New Clotting in Men's, Boys1, ana Youths' 50 Bpys1 Leopold Suits. 4s fid, 5a 3d, to 12s 6d Hen's Tweed Suits, 22a M, worth 809 6 W Hats In greai variety v iapolOlothing • In consequence of the Intknsij Competition to thaMpBAPKR? Trade. W. R, B. has dcte? talnel« MARK AIA O6ODS at the LOWEST BKMAr 11HB OF WINTER BTOOK AT A ORRAT V ...,. , HKIiUOTION.



Special Advertisements. R. C. NEWBERRY COBBETT, M.8., M.S.. EDINBURGH Late Resident Physician. Accoucheur, Rotunda Hosmtal, Dublin, &C..&C ), ALFRED-STREET. ALBERT PARK, Near Choral Hall. Hours of Consultation. At Ho<£3: 0-11 a.m., 6-7, and 8-9 P-°?- ~ It Mr Aickin's Pharmacy. Queen-street. 1.-1, insVec siai practice fa Midwifery and Diseases of Women and Children. p MA C K~A~V FRI PP, AKCHI T X C T, Removed to Melville's Buildings, High street, near Shortland street. VTEVV ZEALAND SUGAR COMPANY Jj| (LIMITED) Ue now prepared to receive orders for their REFINED SUGARS, Delivered duty paid to any part of the City of Auckland, as follows:— \ 0 1 ... £36 PER TON. No. 2 £32 „ No. 3 £27 Samples may now bo aeen at the Offices, Queen-street. _, X BRKVVSTER| MiMgH TTTE FURNISH IIOCSES THROUGHOUT. GARLICK & CRANWELL'S is tjte CHEAP FURNISHING WAREHOUSE. JUST OPENED, Beautiful Assortment BRUSSELS TAPESTRY, AND KIDDERMINT3TKR ■ CARPETS. SPLENDID LOT BEDSTEADS, Just Received, IRON AND BRASS, NICKEL-PLATED. (JAEUCK AND £JRANWIXL, FURNISHING WAREHOUSE, QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND. SECOND «f B E X 07 TH» GREATEST BONA FIDE SALE EVER HELD IN NEW ZEALAND. THE GENUINENESS OF THIS SALE OF CLOTHING AND OUTFITTING REQUISITES OF EVERY DESCRIPTION, Has bean borne out by tha CROWD of CU3 TOMERS during the past week, and especially on Saturday night. OVER YON !■'. WAS PLEASED A JTD SATIS FIED AT THE BARGAINS THEY SECURED. THIS WEEK, FRESH GOODS WILL BE OPENED, AST) THE SAME SLAUGHTERING CONTINUED. JOME EARLY, AS THE PREMISES ARK SMALL. MONSTER CLOTHING HALL, 214, OCEEN-STBIIT, OPPOSITB MCAETHUB'a JX E V V, • -I-J MANAGER. Milne & Choyce Respectfully announce THEIR FIRST SHIPMENT '' OF SPRING DRESS MATERIALS TO HAND. CASHMERES NUNS' VEILINGS OTTOMAN CORD 3 CREPE ZEPHYRS, PLAIN AND STRIPED TO MATCH NEW CHECKS AND STRIPE 3 NEW VELVET SATEENS CASHMKRE PRINTS ZEPHYR LAWNS MADE-UP COSTUMES IN SEVERAL NEW MATERIALS AND WASHING FABRICS, WITH MARY ANDER SON SKIRTS, and OTHER FASHION ABLE DESIGNS. \/ I 1 1 , THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY Display an Immense variety In MEN'S and BOYS' CLOTHING, etc., made of the celebrated MOBGIEL TWEEDS, unequalled In VALUE and Buperlor Fitting. The most economical and durable goods ever manufactured. | Garments to fit every figure always ; In stock. Auckland Branch: 168 & ISO QUEEN STREET. I J. FITZBIMONB, Branch Urmaaar. T\K WILKIKS, P. R. C. 8. i. COMgUMTNO AND OPERATING SUBOEON, i?4firii *"*s%? for General Practice, alao Ktb, Kab, ana Throat Diseases Consultation Fees very Moderate. *^'nkS^ B/S^l 98venie »J5 « MoorofleldJ f/l S?^?« 1'» L<md?V lnd? T Mesß™ Bowman •nd CrlohetL two at Thioat Hoepital, London, «oven yeara Honorary Surfreon Albert Hospital •nd eight years at Eve, Ear, and Throat In! nnaary-.Melbourae. Adiastsspeotaolestoßfsrhts. -corßulling Kooins, Queen-street (near Po.t oiaoe), ADOkland, •



Special Advertisements. WHY ARE ALL MAHURANGI f IMES liiißAXoi Limes NOT ALIKE? SPECIAL TVTOTICE. PECIAL INOTIGE. 11. L. PO33ENISKIE, MERCHANT TAILOR AND IMPORTER, BHORTLA.VD-STKEET. BOKB to Infoni' hiu Ciiatoiiicra ami the Public generally that he has JUST RECEIVED A LARGE CONSIGNMENT OF SPRING GOODS OF THE VERY LATEST PATTERN.", And he having Larqk and Vakioch Shipments to follow. HAS DETERMINED. On all Goods Ordered from this date to October Ist, 138!, for Cash. TRADE SUPPLIED WITH SHORT LENGTH* OR AS REQUIRED AT WHOLESALE PRICE. JAMES SLA TO E (Eight Years Draughtsman Railway Department), A R C II I T E C T, ENGINEER AND DRAUGHTSMAN, ILLUMINATOR, &c, &c. Coombes'3 Chambers. Queen-street. Residence : St. George's Bay Road, Parnell. Agent for A. Dodman, Engineer, Lynn, Norfolk Contractors' Quantities taken out. THE SNAKE ROOT REMEDY I tor RHEUMATISM and GOUT.-Tht CiMICtMIGAfACTtA RACtMOSA) OB BLACK SNAKE ROOT has icen lqnq cilebrateo "nTIIT CERTAIN IN ITS IFFCCTS, AND cubc.LY S«. per aoTTLt, at (k\OMN'S, "THE PWkRVUfiCV' OPfOSUtaHNKQf H .1. QUU.H ST



■ " BUCHU PAIBA."_Q.iU>It completo sure, ml Minoylut Kldurr, BIA-Ider And Uriniry Dia.ia.teH. At UnigvlaU. SpT " iLeuiittiuine. Vnxnr * Co., Agenta, Auckland.



"ROUGH ON RATS."-CW out ml., ml* ro.ch,. file*, auta, bcii-bogi, beetlea, duct*, ftkunkj, J^k-raliUts, gcjpheri At Oruffiiistk, Karaptlionu. Frown * Co.. Agenta. Auckland.



The anniversary of the Ponsonby Baptist Band of Hope -will be held this evening at the Baptist Church. Ponsonby, at halt-pa« aeven o'clock. The entertainment embraces an at tractive prpgrammo of vocal and instrumental music .recitations, etc. Interesting address, will be delivered by various speakers.



Cambridge, this day.—The Itev. Ralph Brown, phrenologist, has been having a prosperous time here. His lecture on Friday was well attended, and on Saturday ho handled the "crowns" (bodily and p3cuniary) of about 150 people. The proposal to ptart a dairy produce and bacon factory in thia district has been resuscitated, the required number of shares (over 2,000) having been taken up. The work will be proceeded with without delay.