SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

in- -i wimra rThißKveniiic 10.9 11U..1 \V AIER {Tomorrow Morning, 10.30 Sl'NSKT.—This KvcninK, C.50 61' N TUSK—Tomorrow Morning, 5.38 AIOOHB AGK-Last Quarter, l'Jtli, 2.32 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Glcnelg, ».»., Stcphcnnon, from Tnuranga Tona, s.s., Aniodoo, from Russell Waitaki, s.s., Crawford, from Whangarei

DEPARTURES.

Bannockbnrn, Irignntino, Matthew, for

ilokianga Macgrcgor, a.s., Johnson, for W hangarei Agnes Martin, ketch, Leslie, for Russell Aurora, hriganline, Ives, for Kaipara Agnos Donald, schooner, Haward, tor Gabort

Group Norval, schOßner, Edwards, for Ruaßoll

IMPORTS.

Per I«naar«oma—l69 sacks J.I. bonedust, Per Look Out—2l* sacks J.I. bonedust.—G. F, Jaklna.

Inwards Coastwise.—Fawn, from Whanga r«i. with 48 tons coal; Waitemate,from Whanga po»a, with.l 6 logs; Bessie, from Kennedy Bay, with 31,200 feottimbor; Totara, from Waipu, with 23,000 foot timber; Ruakaka, from Walwavn, with 20,000 feot timber; South Carolina, from Barrier, with 48 tons wood; Rose, from Mahurangi, with 1,200 bushels lime.

Outwards Coastwise. — WhanßareL for Whangarei; Waitemata, for Russoll; Bessie, for Kennedy Hay; Totara, for Waipu; Krlera hilda, for Whangaroa; South Carolina, for Barrier; Mana. and Mercury, for Taima; Rose, for Mahuranßi. Tha s.s. Blonolg arrived from Tauranga tills morning. Passengers: — Messrs Mitchell, Johnson, Riley, Robertson, Glassou, Pounds, Latter, Graham, and Captain Chapman.

Thebrisfantine Bannockburn sailed last oven ing for llokltftga, where iho will load timber for Bowen, Australia.

The ship Turakina cleared at the Customs to day for Kapler, where sho laad for London.

Tim barque Amaaon haulod off from tbo wharf this morning. Sho has entered outwards at the Customs for Conception.

The 8.8. Waltuki arrived from WhangArci last evening, with the following passenfters :— Mesdsmes Rhynas, Coates, WnKon, Misses Chnpol, Cook, Kafcleton, Walton, Messrs Cookc, Orispo and boy, Stevenson and friend, Eagleton, MoLeod, Thorno, QuiTett, E. Williams, J. O. Hayward, W. Galbraith, Wooley, Major P. Haslam, and three steerage.

Tho brlgantine Aurora, for Sydnoy, rla Kaipara; Agnes Donald, (or Gilbert Gifeup; Norval and Agnes Martin, for Russell; and IVlaogreL'or. for Whongorci, sailed early lost evening.

A schooner (Q.H.N.P.) was signalled whea wo wont to press. She may prove to bo tho Yolande, now duo from Liverpool.

Tho a.s. lona arrived from Russell and northern ports at 1 a.m. to-day with tho follow ing passengers: Messrs Harding, Hono Pote, Austin, Speakraan, Agar, H. Clarke, J. Mnrash. (ireatbatch, Irving, Hoffman, P. Doran and party («). Master Foubister. MrandMisshishop, Mrs Poole, Mrs Davica, Mrs Hoffmnn, Miss Hickeon, Mr and Mrs Rammell, Mr and Miss Minobln.

UNION STEAMSHIP COMPANY.

The following are tho movement of Union Company's steamers arranged for tho ensuing week :—To ariivo: Hawea. from Taranaki, Sun day, noon; Te Anau, from Giaborne, Monday, 11 a.m.; Takapuna, from Tarnnaki, Monday, 2 p.m. ; Manapouri, from Sydney, Tuesday; Southern Cross, from Gisbornc. Saturday; Takapuna, from Taranaki, Saturday, 2 p.m. To leave: Hawea, for Taranaki, Tuesday, 1 p.m.; Taknpuna, for Tarnnani, Tuesday, 1 p.m.; Te Anau, for Sydney via Russell, Tuesday, 6 p.m.; Mauapouri, for South, Thursday, noon; Takapuna, for Taranaki, Saturday, 5 p.m.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVAL. Douglas, 5.8., Scott, from Waitara

DEPARTURE.

Argylo, 3.5., MoArthur, for \\ aitara

The s.s. Argyle left for Waitara yesterday with 3 tons sundries and Mrs Courtney and 6 others as passengora.

The s.s. Donptlas arrived from Waitara this morning at 9 o'clock. She leaves again at 8 a.m. on Monday for the same port.

The Union Company's s.s. Hawea is due fr,om the Sonth tomorrow morning, and should arrive at the wharf about 10 o'clock.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

\Vha2Coarei. this day.—Arrived* Macgregor, from Auckland, 7.30 a.m.

Sydney February 15.—Arrived, this after noon: P.M. ateumship Zealandia. from San Erancisco, via Auckland.

Sydney. Febrnary 15.—Sdilod', thisaf tornoon Hauroto, for Wollingtsn.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails wnx Close as under :—

This Day. For Port Fdtzroy, per Water Lily, at 4 p.m. For Watcrford, Tauranga, etc., per Annita Mil-

bank, at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Anne Milbank. at 5.30 p.m.

Monday, 18th inst. For Waitara, etc., per Douglas, at 6 a.m. For Coromondel, per Coraniandcl. at 1.30 p.m. For Tauranga, Ohinemutu, and Opotikl, per Glenelg, at 4 p.m. For Thames, per Rotomahano. Nt 4.30 p.m. For Suseell, Kawakawa, Whaugaroa, and Montjonui, per Wellington, at 4.30 p.m. For Whitiangi and Upper Mil, per Rowonn, at 5 pirn. For Whangarsi Heads, Kamo, Whangarei, and Mangapai, per Waitaki, at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Tuesday, 19th inst. For W&iwora, Kawau, Omaha, Matakana, and Warkworth. per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m Fc* Taranaki and Southern Ports, Chatham Islands (from Lyttelton), and London (via Rio de Janeiro. p«r Doric, from Lyttclfcm), per Takapuna, at 11 a.m. For Nolson and Southern Ports, per Hawca, at 11 a.m. Per s.s. Te Anau as follows :— For Russell, Kawakawa, Australian Colo nies, and United Kingdom, via Suez and lirindisi, or Tia Naples, for letters, etc., specially so prepaid amd addressed, at 4 p.m. Fojr Centinent of Europe, Mediterranean Ports, India, and China, at 3 p.m. For France, Algeria, Aden, Seychelles, Mauritius, Madagascar, &c. (per French Packet from Sydney), at 3 p.m. Money Orders, tor Australia only, at 4 p.m. For registered letters and newspapers, at 3p.tn- Lara letters for Sydney and Melbourne only at 4.2». p.m. Tuesday. 4th March. Per Zealandia, as'follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 11 a.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 11 a.m. For money orders, the previous evening at 4 run.. For registered letters and newspapers, at 10 a.m. Late letters, bearing an extra feo of six pence In addition to tho postage, will bo received by the Mall Agont on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. This mail will be duo in London on Sat urday, April 12,1881.

S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster. Chief Fost-offlce, Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

February 16, 1881,

Abbott's Opera House—Royal Comic Opera Company, Inaugural Night 8 p.m. V.M.C.A.—Devotional, 7.30 p.m. Working Men's Club—Meeting of Smiths and Iron Workers to balance accounts, 8 T.m.

Births.

LEE.—On February 12th, at*her residence, Vermont-street, Ponsonby, the wifo of A. G, Loo of a son. McGERNEY.-On February 7, at hor residence, Nelson-Btreet, the wife of J. McGerney, master mariner, ef a daughter.

Marriage.

SCOTT-COGHILL.-On sth February, at Upper Union-street, at the residence of the bride's paronts, by tho Rev. R. F. Macnicol, Isabella, second daughter of Robert Coghill, lato of Leith, to Edward John Scott, master mariner.

Deaths.

COSGRAVE.-On February 16, at the Waite mata Mills, Euphemia, tho beloved wife of Alfred E. Cosgrare, and daughter of John Lamb; aged 23. H«r end was peace. The funeral will leave the Queen-street Wharf on Monday, at 2 o'clock. Friends please accept this invitation. FRITH.—On Fobruary 16, at Randolph-street, Newton, Arnold Grayson, son of Samuel and Hannah Frith; aged 6 months. GALLAGHER.—On February 16,1884, after a long and painful illness, at her fathers resi dence, Wairoa South, Annie, the youngest daughter of Christopher and Margaret Gallagher; aged 13 years and nine months. Tho funeral will leave the Queen-street Wharf (from s.s. Planet), at 3 p.m. to-morrow (Sunday). Friends win please accept this invitation. HENRY.-On February 14,188*, at Kawakawa, Bay of Islands, N.Z., Captain Wijliam Henry, J.P., lato of tho 17th Regiment, and third son of the late Thomas Gibson Henry, Moaurne Abbey, Kilkell, County Down, Irelaira; aged

McINTYRE.—On February 15, at his parents' residence Manukau Road, Parnell, James Bruce, fourth son of Sarah Jane and James Bruce Mclntyre: aged 5 years. The funeral will leave his parents'rgßidonce at 2.30 p.m. to-morrow (Sunday). Christ church papers please copy.

Notices to Correspondents.

A R. Catholic—You omitted to oncloso your name as a guarantee of good fyiith. G.B.—The word is sometimes spelt epaulet, and sometimes, epauletto; either way is corrcot. It is neverepelt with two pp.'s.

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

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1884.

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

It is stated, and we think the statement moro than probable, that the Government will not stake their seats on the question of Federation. No ono who has watched Major Atkinson's political career believed that he -.yould risk his enjoyment of office on any question ho- could treat as non-Ministerial; he is usually toler ably sure of a majority before he wil fully provokes a trial of strength. On Federation he is by no means sure of any thing but defeat, and, therefore, harmo nious as was the meeting in Sydney, full and unequivocal as was the assent of the New Zealand delegates to the resolutions of the Conference, sanguine though the predictions were of future great ness of the colonies under a Federal flag, at the subsequent hob-nobbings of the delegates, these sentiments will not cause the Premier to risk his seat even on so great a question of policy as Federation. This practice of wobbling about and watch] ing for the breath of public opinion is humiliating and demoralising. The people expect the head of their political institutions to lead. Instead of doing that, however, Ministers look to their opponents and to the surface indications .of popular currents to show them the way. When will Parlia ment put (ip .c.nd i$ this miserable time-i

serving—this shameless clinging to placo and pay ? Major Atkinson attended the Intercolonial Conforoneo ns tho representa tive of New Zealand ; ho took an activo part in its proceedings; and if any man should have formed clear views of the wisdom of throwing tho fortunes of this colony in with an Australian feder ation, he is pre-eminently that man. Tho decision to be made is a momentous one—no greater has ever come before the Legislature of Now Zealand, and yet tho people are told that the Atkinson Cabinet, u>> the Government of this colony, will have no definite view's with regard to it. Tho thing is preposterous, and if • Parliament has any respect for its own dignity, it wiil insist upon tho full re sponsibility of the action of tho Now Zealand delegates being borne by tho Cabinet which appointed them. What would be thought of an English Ministry which laid down tho doctrine that the foreign policy of the Cabinet was not a mattor on which Ministers should have any clearly-dofined views, or should bo expected to lead the Houso ? More Cabinets have been sacrificed on tho foreign policy than for failure in any other depart ment of tho public administration. Well authenticated as tho rumour appeals to be, therefore, wo still hesitato to believe that the Premier will stoop to a course so shameless and pusillanimous as en appearance before Parliament without a pronounced policy on tho subject of Federation, which ho will bo fully pre pared, if necossary, to appeal to the country upon.

Thk election of Mr Wnkcticld by a largo majority for Selwyn is the- worst electoral defeat tho Ministry have lind sinoo t.lioy caino into ollice. Tlio soat was formerly represented by Sir John Hall, and has been reputed ono of the most strongly Min isterial of tho Canterbury electo rates. Mr Wakefield came to it with out local friends or influence, and contested it as a pronounced Oppositionist against a highly respected local resident. His election confirms the report that a change of feeling has takon place in Canter bury towards tho Government. We shall not be surprised to find a considerable diminution in the strong support which haß hitherto been given by the Canterbury party to the member* of tho present Administration.

Tin: O'Donoghuoand Parr scholarship busi ness, which has caused a storm in a tea-cap, was ended yesterday afternoon by all parties tacitly agreeing to say no more about it. Affidavits havo been sworn, letters and protestations read, nnd rig marole statements and speeches droned out, and tho end of it all is that everybody has been enveloped in a fog, in the midst of which tho principals quietly disappear. Mr O'Donoghue's letter of tho 20th of January, published in our lust issuo, about being so " excited and scalded with anger" over the apparent failure of tho boy that ho didn't know what to do, seems to indicate that the blood of tho O'Donoghues is easily aroused. As contra dictory statements have been made with re gard to tho time this lad Parr attended tho Waio-KaraWh School, wo have obtained the followingofficialaccount.whichshouldstttho matter at rest: —" C. J. Parr was a pupil of Waihou Sohool until 31st of March, ISB3, was a candidate from that school for district scholarship examination, December, 18S2, marks 595-1050, failed in writing and arith metic ; entered ns pupil of Wnio-Knrakn School from Ist April; attended tlmt school on 174 school days'between that date and dato of scholarship examination.—L)o cember, 1853." It does not appear, there fore, that Mr O'Donoghuo'a reputa tion as a teacher was very much at stake in the success or failure of tho boy. However, everybody has manifested so ardent a desire to get rid of the whole busi ness, and the disposition to fall on each other's bosoms and weep manifests itself so conspicuously in the proceedings of tho Board and the tone of our contemporary this morning, that it would bean ungracious task for us to stir up tho embers anew by a fruitless search for the hidden truth in tho mystery of that telegram and the othor curious features of this very singular affair.

Mr Shoehan, M.H.R., accompanied by his wifo and privato secretary, Mr Carrick, has returned to town after a week's sojourn at Waiwera. During his visit to tho Springs, tho steamer Ruby was chartered, and a party made up to visit Sir George Grey at the Kawau. . Tho party comprised Mr and Mrs Sheehan, Misses Kato and Mary Shoehan, Archdeacon Giflbrd, and the Hon. E. Scott, a Victorian M.L.A. Mr Sheehan has definitely decided to stand for tho Napier constituency at the forthcoming election, and his friends consider that he will get in without trouble. Indeed, it is said that Mr J. Buchanan, the present member for Napier, does not intend to con test the seat with Mr Sheehan.

Satisfactory progress is being made with the orection of the Salvation Army Barracks in Albett-s-treet. Tho walls have been completed, and the roof is now being placed on the building. It is the intention of the Salvationists to open tho Barracks with a Hallelujah tea or gathering of some kind.

The appeals lodged against the city as sessments for the current year ore as follows :—'North Ward, 23; South Ward, 11 ; East Ward, 24 ; Ponsonby, 29; Karon gahape Ward, 18 ; Grafton Ward, 11.

The Committee of the recent crickot match between publicans on tho one side and brewers, &c, on the other, havo handed over the gross proceeds (without any deduction whatever) to His Worship tho Mayor on behalf of the Orphan Homes. T,he total sum, £41 2s 7d, it is proposed to divide equally between the St. Mary's and Parnell Orphanges, and it is suggested that it should be devoted to giving the children a treat or excursion.

The prizes gained by the children of St. Paul's Sunday-school for the past year will be given at the regular monthly service for the young to-morrow, at 3.30 p.m.

In consequence of the time occupied in the discussion of matters connected with the Parr scholarship at the Board of Educa tion meeting yesterday afternoon, tho bulk of the routine business had to be postponed. Amongst the correspondence dealt with there was a letter from Messrs Ireland, Winks, and Robinson (Parnell School Com mitteemen), stating that the Chairman had become bankrupt, and asking therefore that Mr Ebenezer Waymouth should be appointed in his place, besides request ing that tho Board would be pleased to take into its own hands the appointment of a second master. It was agreed to reply that tho Board had no power to interfere and fill up the vacant Chairmanship. A letter was received from tho Government declining to grant pupil teachers free railway passes. It was an nounced that Mr Robinson (drawing master) would be in Auckland towards the end of the month. In roferenco to girls' scholar ships it was resolved, on the motion of Mr Luke, "That the scholarship allowance in the case of girls who require to board away from homo be increased from £30 to £40 a year; this resolution to take effectfrom Ist of January, 1884." Mr Goldio said that girl scholarships were more costly to the State than boys, for girls ceased to be teachers when they became married ; boys and young men became teachers, having education for their life-work. The Secretary remarked that more girls obtained scholarships than boys.

Mr E, Rawliiiß, agent for Professor Payne, left by the Argyle for Taranaki yesterday afternoon.

A matter of some importance in connec tion with our system of drainage was omitted from our report of the last meeting of the City Council published in yesterday's issue. On the motion of Cr. Aickin, seconded by Cr. Montague, it was agreed, "That the Engineer prepare plans and specifications for main levels in Stanloy- Btreet; and that the question of contribu tion from the Government and the pro portion of allocation of cost bo referred to Lcgel Committee." This work is an important one, and will do away with the nuisance arising from the open draiuago from the Hospital, besides settling the numerous complaints which have been made from time to time of the stench arising from defective drainage, or more correctly speaking, the absence of drainago in the locality. Mr Aickin has striven for the last five years to have this work carried out, and at one time there seemed a possi bility that it would be done, Graf ton paying £1,000, and the Government £1,000. It was found that Grafton could not pay the amount in question, and the scheme was abandoned at the time, but will now be carried out by the Council. The work will cost about £5,000 or £0,000.

The Hospital authorities deeire us to acknowledge receipt of a donation of fish from Mr Williams, Queen-street Wharf, for use of the patients.

The picnic of the Builders' Association yesterday afternoon, as we anticipated, proved a complete success. The party re turped at a good hour in the evening, quite satisfied witn their outing.

A number of valuable new books have been presented by Dr. Konderdino to tho Library of tho Voting Men's Christian Association. They include somo of tho latest works in instructive and entertaining literature.

Tlio Auckland Medical Society has re s /lved that its Committee shall make inquiries regarding the diplomas of nil persons applying for registration under the Act. Meetings of the Society are to bo hold on tho second Wednesday in each month for the future.

Tho following cricket matches wore pro ceeding this afternoon on tho Domain Ground:—Auckland v. United, Grammar School v. Excelsior, Our Boys v. South End, West End v. North Shore, Avondalo v. United Second, Herald v. National, Softon v Standard.

Tho good uld custom of a harvest thanks giving sorvico will bo celebrated at St. Mary's Church, Parnell, to-morrow, Sun day, 17th met. Services appropriate to tho occasion will bo held, and sermons preached by tho incumbent, tho Rev. (!. S. Walpole, in tho morning at 11 a.m., and evening at 7 p.m. The church will be tastefully decorated with fruit and harvest offerings. The offertories will be dedicated to tho increase of the new Church Building Fund, already started through tho kindness of tho Ladies' Working Society, and will, we hope, add materially to tho object in view, A meoting of tho friends and children of St. Sepulchro's Sunday-school took place last evening in the school-house. Veu. Arch deacon Dudley presided, and opened tho proceedings with a briof address. Tho Rev. John King Davis, of St. Barnabas, also spoko briefly. Mr Hammond, Superin tendent, read out the names of the prize winners, and the Chairman delivered the books, to tho children. Kov. Mr Haddock spoko on tho work of tho Melanesia!) mission. Two gloesworo rendered by the Parish Ulee Club, under tho direction of Mr V. X, Rico. A collection was made, and the meeting separated in the usual way.

Tho successive City School Committees scorn to have a hereditary vondotta with tho Board of Education. For year past each cominitteo has shown a want of sympathetic accord with tho superior body, and evon on thoso rare occasions whon tho gates of tho Tomplo of Janus aro closed, tho latent antagonisms aro distinctly porcoptiblo, and, like a slumbering volcano, aro ever ready to burst forth. At last night's meet ing of the new Committee, two or thrco members made incipient belligerent advances of tho "tread-on-the-tail-of-me coat" ordbr, and wo can already sco crop ping up the nvchi of .several nieo little rows.

Tho meeting of tho member? of tho .1. E. Redmond branch of tho Irish National League last evening in the Catholic Insti tute was largely attendod. At tho closo of tho usual routine business, a most in teresting and carefully-prepared paper was read on " Irolmid When (Jovorneu by Irish men." Tho paper elicited intelligent atten tion, and might bo termed historical, as it dtialt with a period of time several centuries ago, and tho tendency of the paper was to prove that tho Irish were a happier and more prosperous people, ami moro advanced in tho tine and civilising arts, under their own government.

By advertisement olsowhcro in our columns a public meeting is announced to bo hold in Edinburgh-street, Nowton, on Monday ovoning, in connection with the approaching licensing election. Mr F. 0, Ewington will take tho chair, and will address the meeting on the Liconsing Act, as will also the other speakers mentioned in tho advertisement. Important powers are given tho ratepayers under tho Act, and the object of this meeting appears to bo to inform tho ratepayers, few of whom havo ovor had an opportunity of oven read ing, much less studying, tho Act for them selves, of tho methods and consequences of exercising t how: powers.

At a mooting of tho parishioners of St. Matthew's last evening re tho innovation of tho parish school-room, it was stated that the plans had been approved by tho City Engineer, and it was docided to call for tenders for tho work at onco.

To the Editor: Sir,—ln reading your re port of tho last meeting of tho Society of Arts I noticed an omission in the list of prizes ollered for competition. I think it may be as well to call public attention to ono extra prizo which is held out to tho common schools and ottered by a lady. Mra Clayton's handsome donation of £5 was omitted, and also tho name- of tho gentle man who has ») generously como forward with a special prizo for tho ladies of tho Auckland School of Art—Mr Isidor Alox ander. As I consider that all oneoura;,e ment from private sources should have an equal publicity lam writing this to request you to repair what was no doubt an acci dental omission.—Yours, etc., Lktok.

Tho admirers of tho old American game of bowling will havo an opportunity on Thursday evening noxt, tho 21st instant, of witnessing, at Mr Porter's bowling saloon, a match between J. R. Scott, Nevada Hotel, and J. Green, of this city, for i'2o asido and the championship of Auckland, the best of doyen games. As both playors aro champions, great interest, no doubt, will be manifested on this occasion. Mr Porter has spared no expense in decorating his saloon in a uniquo and artistic stylo. Wo learn that heavy odds aro staked. Particulars will bo found in advertisement in another placo.

A meeting of tho members of tho Devonport Naval Artillery was hold in tho Oddfellows' Hall, Devonport, last evening. Tho muster was good, thero being only four absentees, on leave. Mr Samuel Vospcr occupied tho chair, and Mr. Charles Bates acted as secretary pro tern. Professor W. F. Brown, M.A., was unanimously elected captain.- Some consultation then took placo as to whqther tho election of subaltern ollicers should bo adjourned until Professor Brown's return, but on its being put to tho voto it was decided to proceed. Thero was only one nomination for first lieutonant, viz., Sergeant Charlos F. James (City Guards), who was unanimously olected. For the position of lieutenant there were five nominations. Two retired, leaving three to fight for the coveted position. Tho contest was very close, Mr Robert Wyuyard being at the top of tho poll with thirteen votes, and the other two candidates twelvo and cloven respectivoly. A committee was then appointed, consisting of the ollicors, Mr lenton, and Mr Gerrard, to look after a suitable placo for a rifle range. It was agroed to have drill on Wednesdays at 0 a.m. and Thursdays at 7.30 p m., until the return of Professor Brown, who will bo absent for a few weeks.

A San Francisco papor received by last mail has tho following:—•' The familiar • old steamer Senator, or what romains of her, is again to become of some use in marine circles, according to rumours, a New Zealand company having purchasod her of the Pacific Coast Steamship Com pany to tako to Auckland, to serve as a bargo. To get her down there tho hull will be changed into a temporary barquontino, and will mako the voyage under canvas. This steamer was built in 184G, came out hero in 1849, and for some years ran between this city and Sacramento. The California Steam Navigation Company I afterward ran her north, and she next went into the hands of the Pacific Mail Company. The Pacific Coast Steamship Company had her for many years, and an old salt speaking of her yesterday said ' there was not an ocean steamship company on this coast that had not owned her, and there was not a port on the coast that sho had not been run into, Every one of them had made raoney out of her, and her hull is sound to-day, and if sho don't make coin for the New Zealanders it will be their fault.' The steamer was constructed of wood, and went out of commission about two years ago, after having been in constant service for thirty-six years." Wo presume this is one of the hulks which tho .Kamo Coal Co. have purchasod for the purpose of coaling steamers from at Auckland.

To the Editor ; Sir,—Would you kindly insert this for tho information of the rate payers of the Mount Eden and Mount Ros kill districts ? On the Sabbath day (grass being very scarce), ownors of cattle who have a little spare time take their cattle on the road in front of their own placo—a by road which any -but the owners rarely go along. The first ranger lias a few scruples v-can't bring enough to pound; another ranger put on, • has no scruples at all, but drives your cattlo away from you ; owner can't catoli him, being on foot, ranger on horse; walks a few miles to pound ; a busy scene ; pound full of horned cattlo aad horses all together, with only an aged lady in attendance on the pound ; rangers in high glee at tho money they are making on the Sunday; owner pays tho aged lady, and has to got his cattle out tho best way he can, running the risk of getting either injury to himself or horses. Divine service is going on a little way from the pound. Owner goes home with his cattle, wondering what is-the re ligious belief of the trustees to allow such work on Sunday, or the short-sightedness of the ratepayers in putting men in to inflict such hardships in denying cattle a little grass on a lone road with a person standing looking afterthem.—Yours, &c, Ratepayer Mount Eden District.

The New Zealand Shipping Company have received a cablegram from London art follows: —"Tongflviro sails from Qraveoond on February 2(lth, and Plymouth on February 28th. Tho steamer proceeds via Naples, Suez, Aden, and Ilobart. Mr Cosier will probably bo a passongcr."

The City Council aro inviting tenders for three large works, viz., cutting back the earth on section .'!">, with 1. rge frontages to Wakefield, Symonds, and Mount streets; also cutting, formation, and drainage Mount-street, works in Graf ton Road, cut ting away embankment at top of road; also drainage and other works in Gore-street. Tenders are receivable on Thursday (first), 21st instant.

It in not very creditablo to the shipwrights of tho port that they should have allowed their society tgjcollapsG for want of unity of action at a time when nearly all other trades are in a stato of perfect organisa tion. A meeting is called for to-night at tho (ire-bell, Albert-street, tho object of which is the reconstruction of tho society, and to which all members of tho craft aro invitod,

A sHcopstakos sailing raco bbtwocn tho thirtoon-feot boats Secret, May, Romp, Una, Dot, and Lance commenced at 2.30 p.m. Tho Secret was loading when wo wont to press,

Tho Sisters of Mercy return their most grateful thanks to tho members of tho Auckland Fire Brigado, to tho Garrison Band, and to tho Committeo, for tho interest they havo taken in making tho lato entertainment given for Cheir bonclit so complote a success, and at tho same time acknowledge tho sum of U3G Is fid, tho result of the said cntertaiiimont.

Tawhioo and several of his loading chiefs paid a visit to Mr lloslett's English phar macy on Thursday, and appeared highly gratified at what, they saw there. The dusky potentate boro away with him as presents a pair of spectacles, a bottle of ammonia, some scents, and othor.tdllos of tho toilotto, which he intends to mako use of whon ho starts upon Urn rogal travels.

Tho Board of Education regulations con cerning tho temporary absences of toachors arooxecedingly cumbersome andsavourmuch of red tape and circumlocution.' A toaeher takes ill, and on application to the lioad tcachor gets loavo of absence Subsequently (sometimes weeks after), the teachor has to go through tho farco of applying for tho day's leave sho has long before exorcised. Surely tho hoad-teachers might bo ontrustod with such paltry matters as short absences of teachers.

At a meeting of the Harbour Board on Tuesday the Bourd will appoint a chairman for tho ensuing year in terms of Section 52 of tho Harbours Act, IS7B. Applications will bo received for tho appointments of pilot, oadot for ollieo, and enginoor for Calliope Graving Dock. Mr Walker will movo :—"That a roturn bo furnished to tho next meeting of tho Board showing tho quantity of gunpowder and other dangorouß oxplosivcs that havo been landed at tho present po\vdor ground at St. George's Bay, and conveyed through the Borough of Parnell during tho year 1883, and also showing what regula tions aro in forco for tho protection ot the public,,.

The Nowinarkot Brass Hand, which was established only six months ago, undor tho tuition of Bandmaster Morris, nmdo Its first appoaranco in public last evening on tho reserve ground in front of tho Royal Gcorgo Hotel. Tho musicians num ber twenty-livo members. Tho fol lowing programme was gone through to tho dolight of a largo crowd of listeners : — March, " Sunshine " ; solootion, "Norma"; polka, "Jack Frost"; waltz, "Darling Mino"; march, "Come where my Love Lios Dreaming " and sovcral other selections. This band is, we believe, quito solf supporting with tho aid of a fow honor ary members in tho district.

" Practical " writes that the Government telephones aro very unsatisfactory, as half tho time porsons cannot bo heard, and tho lines seem out of order. It appears to him tJiat whilo the Government aro taking all tho subscribers they can got, thoy are not taking provisions to havo the communication ollicient. 110 adds that with other inetru monts imported ono can hear plainly in any part of the room tho instrument is fixed, wliilo with tho Government lino many aro of opinion that it is often quicker to send a note than wait, as thoy have to do at present.

Tho anniversary services of tho Primitive Methodist Sunday-school, Upper Pitt-street, will bo held to-morrow, Srhen sormons Buit able to the occasion will bo preached by Revs. J, Miller, of Onchnnga, \V, G. Par sonson, and \V. S. Potter. Tho annual soireo will bo hold on Tuosday evening, when Mr Thos. Buddie will presido, and addresses will bo dolivored by Rev. Joseph S. Hill and other ministers and friends. Special selections of music will bo given by the choir. Mr Potter's circular states that in conscquenco of tho largo incroaso of scholars at tho Sunday-school extra class rooms on tho ground-tloor aro necessary. Tho Pitt-Htrcet school Is almost a mission school, as tho majority of childron nttend ing aro of very poor families. An appeal, therefore, in favour of the school is made to tho general public.

It is not long since a Mormon " mission " visited tho North Island with the object of converting tho people to tho tenets of Mor monism ; but though tho olders claimed to have wrido a good few converts among tho polygamous Jlaoris, thoy did not mako much impression on tho European population, is, however, a branch of the Church of Lattor-Day Saints established in Auck land, and wobcliovo similar branches exist in other parts of tho colony. Thoso peoplo who aro at all favourably impressed by tho doctrines of this peculiar sect would do woll on tho principlo of hearing tho other eido to pcruso a book which has been brought under our notice, entitled "Polygamy, or Tho Mysteries and Crimes of Mormonism." This is an attractivoly-got-up and copiously illustrated book, which if now being offered for gale by canvass in this district by Mr Robertson. Tho author is Mr J. H. Beadle, fonnorly editor of a Salt Lako newspaper, who, from his exporionco, is fully qualified to speak on thesubjoct; andtherovolations which ho is able to give of tho inner work ing of the system are most startling and Significant. Wo hope to be able to quote at some future timo from tho historical part of the work. It is written in popular style, and tho subjoet is invested with as much of attraction as is possible

To tho Editor: Sir, —Ono groat ovil of the present 12 o'clock closing of hotels, which I have not seen mentioned, U this, that tho men and women who remain drink ing at such places until 12 o'clock, and then have to walk home, have not timo to sleep off the effects of the drink before they have to be at work again on the following morn ing, and thedrink gains tho mastery of them ; whereas, if all were closed at 10 o'clock thoso who patronise them might hopo to get home to bed in reasonable time, and rise sobered and refreshed in tho morning. All true friends of tho publicans as well as of the public should vote for 10 o'clock closing at the latest. When I think of the great number of mon and women I have seen ruined and consigned to premature graves (many of them from the highest ranks of society) during ttio twenty years I have lived in Auckland, I marvol oxcoodingly that such a destructive agent has a singlo defender.—lam, &c, R. H. Hughes.

A rathor curious affair was brought undor the notice of the Education Board, in a written communication, yesterday afternoon, and will doubtless giro rise to considerable gossip. One day last Meek three young men connected with that establishment, after receiving their salaries, proceeded to cortain baths for tho purpose of invigorating tho outer man. One of them finished his bath sooner than the others, and was just about to dress, whon ho suddonly oxclaimod that ho had been robbed. His companions instinctively rushed to their garments, and ono of them, to his con sternation, found that he had been cleared out to tho uttermost farthing. In the course of conversation, the bather who had givon tho jilann remarked that all his money had gone excopt 15s, Tho socond viotim I thought it strange that even that much should be loft while ho was not spared a single copper, and therefore proposed that they should all throe go to tho Police Station and givo information of tho robbery. Tho young man who had first discovered the loss, however, demurred to tho proposal, and singularly enough the young man who had boon relieved of every thing received his own again a few days afterwards. In tho meantime the story had got abroad, and the suspicious circum stance came out that another young man, whilo at tho same baths with tho first alarmist, had lost a sum of £10. Tho Board of Educaiion have requested from the indi vidual who first gave the alarm, and sub sequently had such qualms about putting the police on the scent, to give his version of the affair. Tho police are also trying to probe the mystery, and perhaps a orimmal charge may be the eventual result.

Bicycles, unequalled for finish, price and quality, at Shakespcar & Co., (opposite the Market) Qnoen-stßoot.—lAdvt.)

The anniversary sermons of the Primitive Methodist Sunday-school, Upper Pitt-street, aro announced in our advertising column, and as the school requires increased accommodation, a spocial appeal is mado to the friends of the young for aid

SCINTILLATIONS.

Com id Opera season opons to-night. Tho Governor coinos to Auckland on 15th March.

Mr Justico Richmond went North by the Stella to-day. "Parr's pills" wero not found hard to swallow. Tint dummy ism inquiry nt Dunedin " still is sitting," like Foe's raven or Jones's old hen, The estato of Mooller & Co., Wellington, has been sold for 7s Cd in tho £. London has a company which insures against bicycle and tricycle accidents. It is proposed to build a big new lunatic asylum at Porirua, near Wellington. A million dollars are spent every Sunday on excursions in Now York. Latest cure for rheumatics —Live on water and lemons for a week. It is said never to fall.

Reported in Wellington that tho Colonial Architect's Department is to bo abolished. A glove contest for £20 a side, and the light-weight championship of Auck'and, is announced to take placo in tho Theatro Royal on Saturday next, between W. Murphy and T. Hogan. A number of Dunedin grainbuyera met yesterday, and signed tho following agree ment :—" We pledge ourselves to purchase grain, etc., from thoso who only sell produce with bags included on and after Ist of March, 1884."

Mr Moss, M.H.It., denios that tho Hon. Mr Dick ever was custodian of tho great ISapoloon'H body.

It is estimated that there are now up wards of thrco millions of women in tho United Kingdom earning wages.

Tho Moorhouse statuo, to cost £1,100, is to be ordered at onco from Mr Geo. Lawson, A.R.A. Tho Now Zealand Shipping Com pany oiler to convey it to Lyttclton free of freight.

As tho result of tho " froe drinks " on the Domain at tho cricket match botween pub licani! and brewers, £4 1 2s 7d havo boon handed to tho Orphan Humes. ByOrder-In-Council, dogs afflicted with rabies aro declared to.bo "diseased cattlo." Wanted Known—Will tho "lierco" O'Donoghuo subsideaf tor yesterday 's exhibi tion ?

A New York girl has mado 160,000 dols by a singlo oil transaction, A can of it oxulodod and killed her rich uncle. Tho Mayor of Dunodin has declined to call a public meoting to consider licensing matters, on the ground of illegality of spend ing Corporation funds to do so.

A practical view of a delicate situation is taken by a hardy Southern lover, who advortisos :—" Wanted, a Sweetheart, —I huvo lost mine ; sho is about to marry. For particulars, apply to V.Z., Post-Oflice, Kumara."

Glasgow University has 28 professors, of whom :i have over £2,000 a year, and 10 havo ovor £1,000 a year.

A ship arrivod at Wellington from Mauri-, tiiis reports being In company with a big French transport ship, apparently with a cargo of convicts for Now Caledonia.

It is said that King Humbert believes himself to bo the last King of Italy, and looks forward to seeing his son living in a Republic, and has educated him with that possibility in mind.

A very polite and impressible gentleman, mooting a boy in the street, said, " My dear boy, may I inquire whero Robinson's shop is?" "Certainly, sir," said tho boy, very respectfully. After waiting a few minutes, tho gontleman said, " Well, my boy, whore iait?" "I havo not tho lea&t idea," said tho urchin.

Tho proposed ladios' dress reform has aroused tho ire of a Yankee editor, who de clares ho will stick to his pantaloons against female aggression

"Till tho stare aro old, And the Bun grows cold.

And our last gallua button shall lose It hold I"

" Fallen from tho clouds" ieanoxpressivo phrase to account foran unexpected receipt. So tho girl at tho Coromandel Hotel must havo thought when she tore a wrapper from one of Wolfe's Schnapps bottles the other day, and found an order on Messrs L. D. Nathan and Co. for .!'!, which has been duly paid.

SALE OF LIQUOR AT THE DOMAIN SPORTS.

His Worship 11. O. Seth Smith, Esq., R.M., this morning gavo judgment in the case against W. 11, Corbott, charged with exposing liquor for sate at Carlton Gore Road on the 29th of January. Mr Theo. Cooper appoaiod for tho prosecution, and Mr Edwin Hesketh for the defence. The defendant justified his action under a conditional licenso issued by two mombors of tho Nowmorket Licensing Committeo. Tho caso was argued last Saturday. Ilia Worship now docidod that there must bo a conviction. Throe questions, he said, had been raised in defence—ono, that as Mr Corbett was not shown to havg been present during the timo tho liquor was exposed for sale, he could not be convicted, a manual net being necessary. His Worship said it was clear that tho defendant authorised the salo and employed thoso who sold. Ho was responsible for the acts of his servant?, and it was clearly shown that they acted undor his express authority. He did not think Mr Justico Gillies, in tho case referred to by Mr Hesketh, had held that a manual act was neceßsary. In that caso the Court was only distinguishing between tho 159 th and itiOth soctions. Tho case was tho gamo as under tho 155 th scctior, and under that section it was clear n man wob responsible for tho acts of his servant. Tho second point, as to the signature to tho con ditional license, it was unnecessary to con sidor, for tho third ground, that the condi tional license authorised tho salo, was clearly bad. The sale was not ovon within tho boundary of the Domain, whilo the sports woro held ■ ovor 300 yards from the boundary. This booth was not a placo of. public amusement, and it was clear that the licenso was no protection for tho defondant. As to the penalty, the (Otic ' showed a flagrant attempt to evade the law, and a penalty of £10 and costs (£6 11s) must be inflicted. MrThoo. Cooper applied for and obtained permission to withdraw the second charge without costs.

ACCIDENT TO THE WAIHORA.

Sho Runs Aground at Bluff.

[BY TKLKOUArit.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Bluff, this day. Thk Union Co.'s steamship Waihora, on leaving tho harbour, bound for Melbonrno, at 3 o'clock this afternoon, was prevented by the action of tho flood tido upon her bow from slewing at the turn round tho lightship, and before she could be stopped she took the ground on Tewal's Point, and listed considerably. On going full speed astern her bow canted up the harbour, and she now lies between Tewai's Point and tho red buoy, close to the latter. She is fast at present, her engines going astern; and as the tido is still flood she may come off all right. Tho ciroum stanees are similar to those when tho Roto mahana grounded here, excepting that she is on tho othor side of tho channel, and the tide at flood. Evening. The Waihora came off at four o'clock, and is anchored off tho pilot station. Captain Edie reports the wheel chains carried away just as she entered off the lightship, and before she could be brought astern she grounded and swung round. Sho floated off as tide made. The ship being double - bottomed, all the water ballast tanks wore pumped out, and he satisfied himself the ship was making no water. Sho sails to-night for Port Chalmers, docking there. The underwriters' surveyor, Captain Thompson, examined the ship thoroughly, and is satisfied she is making no water. The Waihora is in dock at Port Chal mors. It is not thought there is anything the matter with her, but this cannot be ascertained until the dock is dry.

THE SELWYN ELECTION.

[by telkqhaph.—press association.]

Chbistohurcii, Friday. The polling for the district of Solwyn took place to-day, with tho following result j— Wakefleld. McLachlan. lioeston .... 182 183 Brooksido .... 36 27 Southbridee .. IS7 85 Dunsandel.. .. 101 21 Total.. .. 479 ~316 Majority for Mr Wakefleld, 163. The total of the votes polled at last election was 618. The greatest excitement prevailed. Timaud, Friday. There is genera) satisfaction at Mr Wake field's victory at Selwyn..

Brett's Auckland Almanac and Pro vincial Handbook, for 1881, is now on sale at al booksellers.

THE SOUDAN REVOLT.

[IIKUTKII'K TELKO7MMB.]

Kobolii near Souakim Dispersing. Cairo, February 14. Tklkohams are to hand from Souakim stating that the rebols who have been encamped in tho neighbourhood are now dispersing.

MINING NEWS.

Tho Recent Spurts.

Ykstkrday a little abnormal excitement was caused amongst the habitue's of tho Stock Exchangeinconsequencoof t!iorecoil t of two telegrams, both conveying news of important discoveries in our mining districts. Tho first gave intelligence of the discovery of specimen stono in the hanging wall leader of the New Munukuu mine. This mine is one of the erstwhilo celebrated "Caledonian Group," which included the Caledonian, Cure, fookoy, Golden Crown, and Manukuu. In tho early days of the Thames the Mnnukau was a bright and shining light in tho mining firmament, and moro than one fortuno was made from it; of lato years, however, it lias sunk below mediocrity. Now, however, it has a chance of again coming to tho front. The block on this leader is HOO feet long, extending from the Cure boundary to Hart's rise, and it is estimated that thore will be fully 170 ft. of backs. The block is perfectly intact with the exception of about 40 square foot stoped out near an intor mediato winzo, sunk for tho purposes of ventilation. Mr 11, R. Jones, one of tho original ownors of tho Manukau," has seen the find, and assures that tho stono is liko the old "tack," splendid blotches of ruby silver showing through tho stone. The oc currence of this mineral in reefs in tho vicinity referred to is regarded as an almost unfailing indication of the existence of rich gold. Tho manager is now said to bo carry ing another stopo along towards the shot of gold. This should be "homo" in two or three days, and then more will bo known of the voluo of the find. There were a good many transactions in the market yesterday. The scrip rose to 5s 3d, but before the close fell back to 4s. To-day the price quoted was 3s (id. Tho second spurt waa in Colonials (To Aroha), for which there were strong buyers yesterday at 4s 6d, and to-day Os wus offered with no sellers. The cause was the receipt at 4.45 p.m. of tho following telegram from the mine manager: " Good gold got today both ends Colonist low level. Bost gold over got." This, taken in connection with tho excellont prospects of the New Find and other mines in the same channel, cannot fail to bo encouraging to holders of Te Aroha .stock,

[lir TKLKORAPn.—OWN CORBEHrONDKNT.]

Thamks, this day. New Manckau. — The manager will not again break quartz in Company's reof for some days, having determined to bring along another stope on tho small leader, and open out the greater extent of tho lodo. Tho reef is composed of mullock, traversed by ribs of solid and mineralised quartz, tho latter yielding tho specimens. Camhria. — Tho reef in tho winze has doveloped into a fino body of quartz somo 6 feet wide, charged with an extraordinary quantity of antimony, and showing a little gold. This is regarded as an almost infallible indication of tho existence of rich deposits somewhere in the vicinity, but the genoral rule is that gold is not found in immediate proximity to this class of mineral. The country « favourable; and all conditions suitablo for tho existence of gold.

Kukanui Hill.—James, tributor, crushed nine tons of quart/, for tho splendid result of OTosa. 4dwts. gold.

THE GUILELESS HALF CASTE.

(BY TELKfiRAI'H—OWN COEKKSI'OSDENT.)

Tk Awamutit, this day. Mb William' Uituheh, of Kopua, a gontle man of tho half-casco " persuasion," who recontly sought Parliamentary honours, ia now on his way to Her Majesty's gaol at Mount Edon, whither he has been consigned for two months in con sequence of neglecting to pay his grocory account. Hughes is labouring under tho fond delusion that by undergoing this imprisonment he will oscape payment of his dobt. On his return ho will learn his mis take ; and tho natives hereabouts will re coivo a moat salutary lesson at tho expenso of Mr William Hughes

THE SUICIDE AT TE AWAMUTU.

Tho |Coroner's Inquest.

Ay inquest was held at tho Railway Station, Te Awamutu, on Thursday, on the

body of tho young man William Henry

Morgan, who shot himnelf there on Tues day. Tho inquiry was conducted by Mr Thos. Gresham, District Coroner, before a jury of twelve, of which Mr James R. Wright was chosen foreman.—Constable Gillies was present on behalf of the police. —The ovidonce went clearly to show that the unfortunate man's mind had been affected.—Michael Hickey deposed to strange conduct on the part of deceased on returning from the railway picnic on Mon day. He was gobbing violently, and tearing up grass and eating it. Deceased told wit ness that ho had been informed that his sweetheart had been flirting, and was about to marry another man. Ho also burned a lot of letters, and appeared very dejected.— Neil McMillan, engino-cleauer, said that deceased told him on returning from tho picnic that ho would be carried_ dead out of To Awamutu within a fortnight. This witness found decoased lying dead on the floor of his bodroom, with a fowling-piece discharged, over his righ arm, and the muzzle resting on his shoulder. Ho had no doubt that deceased had committed suicide by shooting himself. Tho excitement under which deceased laboured appeared to result from somo troublo nbout a female. Tho letters which were burned camo from Auck land, and were all in ono handwriting—a lady's.—Constable Gillies deposed as to having found the body. Ho found two letters on tho table opposite to where ho fell—a small pioce of paper, and Is. Tho papor had writing on it. TJho writing was as follows: "Neale, please to post these lottors for mo to-night, and oblige W. H. Morgan." One of the two letters mentioned was addressed to Mr R. Morgan, Hill-street, Newmarket, Auck land. The othor was addrossed to a female. Ho opened the letters. Tho ono to Mr Morgan contained £3 in notes, to gether with tho following lettor :—"To Awamutu, February 12, 1884. My dear Papa, Laura, and Minnie, —I hope you are all quite well, and I hope you enjoyed your selves. I enjoyod myself very well. I got up here. I feel miserable I am not at work to-day. lam sonding £3 more down. I will now say good-bye.—All from your only son, William Hknuy Mohoan." This concluded the evidence, and the jury, with out retiring, brought in a verdict that de ceased oomrnitted suicido while in a state of temporary insanity.

RODNEY AGRICULTURAL SHOW.

[by telegraph,—own correspondjsnt.]

Warkworth, this day. Thk following aro tho principal awards at Show yesterday :—Draught horses; Palmer (Port Albert), first; G. Dibble (Wellsford), Bocond. Hacks ; Dibble, first and second. LadieB1 hacks (ridden by Misses Dibble and Mooney): Dibble, first and second. F. Grummer takes first and champion prizes for the best bull shown. Sainsbury (Mahu rangi) was the principal exhibitor of cattlo, taking most of the prizes in this class. There was a fair show of fruit, Morrison boing tho principal exhibitor. The prize for collection of fruit was awarded to Mrs Morrison; for collection of apples, E. Morrison. Dessert apples : Mrs Morrison, second. Culinary apples : Cruickshank, first and second. Peara, plums, quinces, lemons, oranges, and grapes: Mr Morrison. Seedling apples (raised in Rodnoy): D. Becroft (Part Albert), first; Captain C. Kaspor, second. Bacon : G. Dibble, first. Butter (salt): Jordan, first; Angove, second. Cheese (old): W. Wilson, first; Shaw, second. Cheese (new)! Keddle, first ; Sainsbury, second. For other kinds of produce Messrs J, H. ISav rison, Shaw,- Angove, J. Phillips, Perry, Jordan, and Wilson were prize-takers. The courteous Secretary, Mr J. Harrison, did his work most creditably.

CABLEGBAMS.

(MUTTER'S CA3ILEOHAM.I )

London, February 14.—Tho homeward mails, via Suez and Brindisi, dated Mel bourne, January 3, were delivered here to day. First portion of Tongariro's shipment of frozon mutton, placed on the market to-day, realised 5d per pound, Tho lowness of the price is attributed to the mnallness of the carcases. London Wool Sales. The catalogue at yesterday's wool salo comprised 8,900 bales. A fair demand was experienced for the lots submitted. At the wool sale today, 12,000 bales were offered, making a total of 39,100 bales catalogued since the opening of the series. Prices generally were Jd lower than at the close of last auctions. Tho withdrawals amount to 4,000 bales.

[special to press association.]

The Federation Guarantee

London, February 14.—1t is generally believed in oilicial circles that Lord Derby is disappointed that the Australian colonies have not stated the amount which they are prepared to contribute towards strengthen ing the British squadron, and extending the authority of the Crown In the Pacific. French Convicts for the Pacific. A vote of 10,000,000 francs has been placed upon the French estimates for the purpose of giving effect to tho provisions of the Kccirfiviste Bill. It is considered unlikely that any of the present Australasian Governors will bo ap pointed to succeed tho Marquis of Normanby in Victoria, as it is desired to secure the services of a new and strong man as Governor for that colony. Lord Derby has expressed himself much satisfied at the oiler made by tho Victorian Government of their gunboats for service in eonneetion with Egyptian affairs. The matter has been referred to the Admiralty.

AUSTRALIAN

(Received February 10, 1.5 a.m.)

Sydnky, February 15. — The cricket match between tho Australian team and the combined eleven of Australia, com menced here to-day. Tho weather is fine, and there was a moderate at tendance of spectators. The Australian team went in first, and were all disposed of for a total of 318. Tho following aro the individual scores:—McDonnell, caught, CO; Bannerman, bowled, i ; Murdoch, caught, 83 ; Gifl'en, caught, 1 ; Bonnor, bowled, 62; Midwinter, caught, 40 ; Scott, leg before wicket (?); Blackham, bowled, 15 ; Palmer, not out, 24; Boyle, caught, nil; Cooper, caught, 0 ; extras, 19. Total, 318.

Sydney, February 15.—The proposed fiscal innovations, as announced in the Treasurer's budget statement, will bo fur ther considered in tho Assembly on Wed nesday next.

Australian Markots.

SYDNEY, February 15.—New Zealand wheat has advanced 2d during the week, and is now quoted at 3s Od. New Zealand oats have risen to 3s. Maize remains at 4s per bushel, and the Sugar Company's No. 1 pieces at £34 per ton. Auklaiuk, February 15.—The wheat market is very dull, and little business is doing. To-day's quotations aro 3s 9d to 3s lOd, nominal. Flour remains about last week's prices. Town brands are quoted at £9 10s, and country brands at £8 15s. Tho freight market is firm. Freights to London : Steainors, 45s for cereals; ditto, sailing, 40s.

"MASCOTTE" TO-NIGHT AT THE OPERA HOUSE.

Tim comic opera season at Abbott's Opera House will bo inaugurated to-night with tho production for tho first time in this city of the captivating and romantic work known as "La Mascotte." It aeheived a pro nounced success in England, and has been played by tho present Company through out Australia in such a manner as to render it everywhere the musical " hit" of tho year. No recent work of tho kind is said to surpass it in tune fulness, whilo the "business" is very funny, the plot interesting, and tho dialogue amusing. Superadded to these promised attractions there is the undoubted fact of tho proved capacity of the leading artistes. Tho following verso in one of tho choruses affords an explanation of tho ?[uaint legend upon which tho opera is ounded:—

" One day a gnomo brimful of opito. And on his art shrewdly relying, Forth on earth to plague poor mankind Sont legions of imps out a-llying; Tho fairy queen pitying saw, And sent with speed wholly surprising A race of elves who bring good luck, Tho craft of the fiend neutralising.

Ah ! blest their lot whom fate shall send

A true Mascotte, a fairy friend I Or younjj, or old, or dull, or clever. Luck's his for ever! and for everl'- In order to promote the convenience of country visitors, the performance will com mence this evening at a quarter to eight. Tickets for pit and stalh may be purchased at Mr Abbott's (United Service Hotel) at any time during the season.

THE PARR-CUM-O'DONOGHUE IMBROGLIO.

The discussion at the Board of Education meeting yesterday afternoon directly bear ing upon the Parr scholarship ended with the refusal of the Board to permit a revision of tho examination papers, and the conse quent withdrawal of Mr Pfirr. Mr Buck land then made an onslaught upon the " Herald," in the courso of which he said that although the proprietors of that journal were the landlords of the Board they should not bo allowed through their paper to dic tate to it on every occasion the courso it should pursue, and as for their oditor, ho thought he should bo conveyed out to the Asylum. Mr O'Donoghue then asked and ob tained leave to make a personal statement. Mr O'Donoghue handed in a written state ment acknowledging that he wrote the lettor signed "D. O'Donoghue," referred to in Mr Parr's statement, that it was written at tho Thames on Sunday, the 20th ult., that he was in Auckland on tho 2Gth ult., and that he did not inform the editor of tho " Herald" that any telegram had been sent to the Board of Education. He then made a lengthy verbal statement with regard to his connection with the matter. Ho said that ns his candidature for Newton East Mas destroyed on the 24th, the publi cation of what appeared in tho "Herald" on the 2Gth could not have any connection with that candidature. Ho now acknow ledged that tho letters ho had written had been penned under a false impression. What made him peculiarly sensitive on tho 18th, 19th, and 20th ult., was tho fact that the omission of Parr's name from the scholarship list injuriously affected his can didature. His lottor was intended to be a fierce ono, and by its vory .fierceness he thought it oalculated to arouse tho attention and spirit of the Board to his suspeoted unjust treatment. He waa then in complete ignorance as to who the examiners were. Ho had instructions from young Parr's father before Xmas to write a lettor to him inferming him of the result of the Scholarship Exami nations as soon as it was declared. Ho meant no disrespect to the Board, Mr Moss considered that Mr O'Donoghue's frank explanation did him great -credit, and therefore moved that it should bo received. Mr O'Donoghue, in continua tion of his statoment, went on to allego that tho Inspector's memoranda regarding himself were not borne out by tho reports or by facts,

Tho one set of evidenee'opposed tho other. There woro no reports against liim properly understood. His character had been de stroyod by tho publication in the "Herald" of last week's proceedings of the Board. Mr Moss considered that it was a great mis tako to publish these memoranda if they were intended only for i>lr Q'Donoghue's guidanco and instruction. Mr O'Sullivan said that he would have gono into tho mat ter with Mr O'Donoghne if lie had remon strated in a proper manner. Mr O'Donoghuo replied that the publication of the memo randa had dono him an injustice. He thanked tho Board and withdrew. Tho matter was then allowed to drop.

Something Choice, Wtolcsalo and Retail, at Aickin's, The Pharmacy, Qnocn-street,— Pear's 30 per cent. Puro Glycerine Soap, Pear's Transparent Shaving Sticks and Cakes, Pear's Toilet Carbolic Soap, Pear's Rouge and Pearl Powder, Pear's Violet Powder, Faar's Pure Curd Soap, Belgian Rose Soap, Belgian Opopa nax Soap, Colgate's Cashmere Bouquet Soap, Colgate's Jock'oy ClubScap, &c, &„ Genuine Eau do Cologne, throe sum j

TELEGRAMS.

(from our own correspondent.)

Thames, this day. — Isidora Campbell, the illegitimate child of a young woman at present at Te Aroha, was found drowned this afternoon in a well on Golden Calf Spur, wither she had gone to fetch water Cambridge, this day. — Tho Autumn Meeting of the Cambridge Jockey Club has been fixed for tho 23rd and 24th Apri' when £360 will be given in prize-money* ' Out of £5,000 applied for by the Piako County Council for roads and bridges Government has granted £1,040. '' The tourist traffic via Waikato to the Hot Lakes is daily developing. Last nig't no fewer than thirty tourists arrived hera from Ohinemutu. Hamilton, thisdoy.—Aseriousbuggyacci dent occurred yesterday afternoon. A party consisting of Mrs Chitty, Miss Chitty, at.d the two Misses Walnutts, were out for a drive, when, on going down the cutting through one of the ladies accidentally pulling the single rein, the buggy cftLsized. One or tho occupants, Miss Chitty, had a small bono in her shoulder broken, and Mrs Chitty had her ankle sprained, the others escaped unhurt.

(per press association.)

Wellington, this day.—The steamer Bombay sailed for London at noon.

Dunrdin, this day.—Marr was convicted on four charges of stealing moneys, the pro perty of tho Tasmanian cricketers, and sen tenced to 18 months imprisonment.

CRICKET MATCHES.

Tasmania v. Otago,

[r.V TKI.EOKAPIT.—PRESS ASSOCIATION^

DuNF.MN, this day. Tiik return match between the above clubs was continued yesterday afternoon, the visitors being all disposed of for a total of 139. The following are the complete scores:—

TASMANIA.—First Inkinos. Davis, bCooke io Harris, c Harris, b Cooko .. g Kirby, c and b Cookc 2 Hale, b Fitzgerald 3 Mansfield, b Cooke 9 Hutlcr, c Harris, b Cooko .. .. 4 Sidcbottom b Dixon 59 Burns, c and b Cooke 13 Gatehouse, not out .. .. ..28 Sams, c and b Dixon 0 Kendall, b Dixon .. ]2 J3yeß 9 Wides 1 Total 139 Otago then went in, being represented at the wickets by Harris and A. Cargill, with Kendall and Hale bowling. Cargill, how ever, did not stay long, Kendall catching him in two minds. Dixon, the next comer, had not got into double figures when, he found a yorker from Kendall too much for him, and Spring could only score a single when Mansfield, who had relieved Hale, got his wicket (3 for 35). Collinson now joined Harris. Runs came slowly. Harris was repeating his performance in the first innings of the laßt match, playing capitally and giving no chances. The following is tho score up to the drawing of the stumps last night:— OTAGO.—First Inxikgs. Harris, not out 40 Cargill, b Kendall 5 Dixon, b Kendall 9 Spring, b Mansfield 1 Collinson, not out 13 Extras .. 4 Total for 3 wickets 78 Tho match was resumed to-day, when the weather was glorious and the ground in good condition. Otago's innings was re sumed, and at the adjournment nine wickets were down for ICG. Harris played a fine ! innings for Cl ; Collinson, 24. Davenport is not out with 26; and Parker, not out,1 17.

LATEST CABLEGRAMS.

Despatch of British Troops. (Received February 16—1.25 p.m.) Cairo, February 15.—The embarkation' of troops to bo despatched from this • city to tho Red Sea will commence to day at Suez whoro the transports are now waiting. The ships will proceed without J delay, and it is expected to land the whole , t force at Souakim by Tuesday next, 19th- H instant. Cattle Diseases Precautions. ■ London, Feb. 15.—Lord Carlingford," President of the Coancil and Lord Privy Seal, introduced in the House of Lords, a Government bill providing for tho exclusion from the Usited Kingdom of cattle arriv- - ing irom countries whoro disease is believed to be in existence. ' British Vote for Defences. In the House of Commons, the Chancellor " of the Exchequer has given notice of motion for credit two millions, to be devoted to de fences at home and abroad. Tho Address-ln-Reply Debate. The debate on tha Address-in-Reply eon-' tinued in the House of Commons last .. evening, but was again further adjourned. (Received February 16, 2 p.m.) " ' .I1 Affairs in the Soudan. London, February 15. Telegraphio communication has been re- ''■"■ stored with Khartoum. Tho several tribes throughout tho d is- I tricts_ through which Colonel Gordon passed on his way to Berber, have received him' , with great cordiality. ; r | Britain and the Fall of Slnkat In a speech in the House of Com-) . mons, Mr W. E. Forster expressed the- j opinion that the English Government wet©' responsible for the Sink at disaster. : Alleged Overcrowding of Emigrants. tjj9 In reply to the question of Mr Stuart Wortloy, M.P.. the Hon. Mr Chamberlain, President of the Board of Trade, stated that no complaints had been received I regarding the over-crowding of emigrants ■ on board the Warwick Castle as reported.

LATEST TELEGRAMS.

Dunkdin-, this day.—The race privileges realised £561.

The Dunedln Races,

Turquoise is scratched for all engage ments at tho Autumn meeting.

Tho Waihora has been docked, and only two small dents found. She sails to-night.

Russell, this day.—Arrived : Norral, Sailed : Magellan Gloud.

CORRESPONDENCE.

The Nottingham Castle.

(To the Editor.) Sib,—lt is to bo hoped that the residents'in Queen-street, Symonds-street, and the ad joining streets, will not inflict upon the. inhabitants of Abercrombie and. . Lome-streets tho nuisance and annoyance of continuing the license to the Notting ham Castle. I do not think that* tho voters in tho East Ward will, upori consideration, be so heartless and selfish as to force npon the inhabitants a' nuisance that they have all petitioned against, and it is only those that have lived in that neigh bourhood can know what they have; suffered. Besides the public nuisance there is much private misery, I will relate ono case that came under my own observation not 200 yards from the Nottingham Castle. A college man, witb a first-class education, at one time holding Govornmont appointment in Auckland, fell under the drink curse, lost his appointment1 from drink, and could keep no other. His wife at last, to keep the children, was com pelled to go out to day work. Train over work fiho became ill, and had to take! to her bod. And, almost the last time I mot him, ho had just taken his wife's stays and tho blanket from off her to pawn them for drink. Tho inhabitants have used every effort to do away with this nuisanco, and petitioned the Licensing Bench, but the late Licensing Bench in its wisdom has promised a brick nuisance instead of a wooden one. There is a strong feeling that there are too many public houses, and if the evil is not stopped when the Bench has the opportunity it may, have the matter taken out of its hands altogether.—l am, etc., East Ward.

Standard Preparations just rcccired at Aickin s. The Pharmacy. Queen-stref t— Kepler's Extraot of Malt, two sizes; Keplert Extractor Malt, with Cod Liver Oil; Kepler's Extract of Malt, with lodide of Iron; Kepler* Extract of Malt, with Parrtsh's Food: Haze line; Bprrousrh's Beef and Iron Wine; Fellow* Syrup of the Hypophoephltcs, forConsumptlOß; J»frant BQzodont for the Teeth <3» & wr bottle); Fno's Fruit Salt; Bishop's EfflsrTesa&fc; Carlsbad Salts, Viohy Salts, and Citrate 0* Litum,

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR" .SATURDAY, FEBRUARY IG, 1884.



New Jjaw Partnership. fHB UNDERSIGNED bog to nnnnm.no that they havu Commenced Fraction In Co-partner ship an BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS, In Chambers in High-street opposite Mr W. Atkin'g Printing Offlce. E. W. BURTON, W. J. NAPIKR. Auckland, September 22nd. 1883. For You THE GOODS To Note For you Manufactured by J,!?S°J? For You THE NEW ZEALAND To Note Fob You CLOTHING FACTORY J°Sote For You From tho Celebrated To Note For You MOSGIEL TWEEDS To Note USySS Acknowledged ?oNote For You To bo tlie Most To Note For You STERLING VALUE J«Noto For You Andßeßt To Note For You WEARING GARMENT To Note For You EverProdueed, ToNote Jfor You Whilo the Range To Note For You Of Prices To Note &?# IsboVaried .&»•£ Ftft Ycra That the Most To Note lftrYoti ECONOMICAL. S°S°! C For You „,- m . m To Note FotYou . io Whom To Noto For*ou MONEY IS AN OBJECT, To Note For You WiUbe To Note fj»?£ Thoreughly Satisfied. %%«* For You To Note For You To Note For You , itpk-t »vrn nn a wpir To Noto For YOU AUCKLAND BRANCH, To Notfl For You . ,«fcian To Note For You 158 & 180, To Note *£?£ QU.BN-BTHKKT. ?° gfcg |S?SS J- FITZSIMONS. K&g fS?S Branch Manager. For You To Noto For You "' To Noto ?£?SS N.8.-Patterns and all £$«£ For You intownation sent Post Free. To Note NOVELTIECJ OVELT I E O. EX S.S. DORIC. MILNB AND OIIOYCE Have just Opened Several Cases of Novelties, including— VERY HANDSOME SASH RIBBONS FANCY LACE BOWS FAWCY LACE WBB OPERA WRAPS MOB CAPS PLASTRONS, lor street and evening wear KERCHIEFS, New and Fancy Designs L ASKS, including Coloured Beaded Laces and tho New Flouncing Laoo GOLD BRAIDS VEL^JEJTEENS, the new Twfll Baok. Milne & Choyce, QUEEN-STREET.



Signor Otto Hug, the Swiss medical clair voyant, receives patients that are not able to pay, froe of charge, evory Saturday afternoon from two to four ofelock. at St. Mungo Place (op poslte Bank of 'Now Zealand), Queen-street— Advt.] Perambulators and carpets, reversible i bicyclo wheel and other kinds of perambulators just opened from £1 to £7. Now designs in Brussell and tapestry carpets. Furnish your house throughout from Garlick and Cranwell s ' City Hall iTurnishing Warehouse, Queen-street —[Advt.J Good Cooking Ran^jes are a real kitchen j comfort. It would be unwise to make a selec tion before seeing those at Wlngate, Burns and Co.'s, Cußtoms-stact. which, for appearance, strength, utility ami cheapness, are all that can be desired either for hotels or private houses.— lAdvt.] The very high rents charged for property in Queon-Btroet must of neooßßity dncrcoaa the Tidueoffroodßta consumers. Rents iHOuatoms street being more moderate, Wingato. Burns and Co. are enabled to sell general iionnuwgery | at a lower rate. Pleasing and tangible proof «f i.. this haa already boon experienced by many <$gte and all may b« socvineed by making a sraal ySsiMA irarchMe from their varied stock of usefu : wraschpltl Ironmongery.—lAdvt. 1



Special Advertisements. DR. 1' 11 I L S O N, Late District Surgeon, Attonda from 10 a.m. to 1 o'oloek p.m., AND DR. J. H. HONEYMAN From 11 a.m. to 1 o'oloek p.m., at, Aickin'r, THK PHAR MA C V Queen-street. T\ISEASES OF THE EYE. ARTHUR RICHARDSON, M.D., SPECIALIST AND OPERATOR ON DISEASES OF THE BYE, MAY BE CONSULTED AT HIS RESI DENCE, KARANOAHAPE ROAD, From 1 to 3 in tho afternoon ; On HASLKTT'B ENGLISH PHARMACY, 181, Queen-street, from 3 to 5. Just Opened a splendid assortment of C D T D R A O I E M W M T A E I O S L T N X S I N S E E S g 'Uheso Goods are Very Choice, and havo been selected with great care- especially for MY OWN TRADE. W"l LLI A M Ji, ATTR AY, DRAPER, O I.OTIUE H, AND SILK MKRCER, 178, 180, and 182, QUEKN-STRWKT (four doors below tho New Savings Bank), AUCKLAND.



Miracles are rather worked by patient per sistency than by precipitato operation. The streams that aro drawn from the fissured rocks flow only after continuous drilling. Tho pro phets, with their magic wands, Tivo only in sacred history. To test the truo virtue of a thing we must subject it to a fair trial. Medi cines that euro in single doses aro nostrums. The relief afforded in the ailments which it is calculated to treat comes of uSing persevcringly Udoi.pho Wolpk's Schiedam Aromatic Schnapps.