SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATim /Thi9 Evening, 3.17 niwu WATER Vr o . monw Morning. S.J2 SUNSET.-This Evening, 7.1t BUNRISE.-To-morrow Moniiiu, 5.12 MOON'S AGE-Now Moon, 28th, 4.10 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Stanloy, brigantine, from the South Wnitaki, s.s., Crawford, from Whangarei

DEPARTURES.

Macgregor, s.s., Johnson, for Whangarei Waihora, s.s., Edie, for Sydney Akaroa, barquo. Bowling, for Port Chalmers Star of Mersey, brig, Douchrass, for Whangatoa

VESSELS EXPECTED.

London.—Doric, s.s., sailed Doc. 15; North umberland, ship, LDICG, Dec. 1; Brenhilda, ship, NBLF, Nov. 30! Alastor and Rangltikei. loading.

Liverpool.—Yolando. barque, Oct. 22. New York.—Amazon, barque, MRDT, via Wellington, sailed Sept. 27 ; Charles L. Pearson, barque, JNQD, via Wellington, sailed Oct. 3; Lady Mabel, barque, sailed Nov. II; Rebecca Crowoll, barque, via Wellington, sailed Dec. 12; Claribe), barque, via Wellington, loading.

IMPORTS.

Por Daphno, from Rarotonga—s tons copra.

EXPORTS.

Per Waihora—l73 kegs butter, 29 hides, 73 boxes soap, 60 tiorces bcof, 'ith piecos timber, 10 bales fungus, M packages sugar.

Inwards Coastwise,—Liczie, fiom Whan garoa. with 29,500 ft. timber; Violet, from Thamos, with 17,000 ft. timber.

Outwards Coastwise.—Una, for Tairua; Violet, for Thames.

The s.s. Waihora loft for Sydney shortly after S p.m. yesterday.

The barque Akaroa sailed for Port Chalmers this morning to load for London.

Tho brig Restless cleared at tho Customs to day for Newcastle, in ballast. Pnssengor: Mrs MagraUi.

Tho brig. Star of Mersey, sailed for Whanga roa this afternoon. Sho loads timber there for Sydney.

Tho steamer Napier, which went ashore at Rangltikei rooontly, has been floated off. She will be temporarily repaired and brought to Wellington for a thorough ovorhaul. Captain Trayte, late of tho schooner Pirate, and tho mate (Kelly) of tho same vessel, arrived from Rarotonga by the cutter Daphne yester day. The Pirate, as wo reported a short time ago, was wrocked off Manihikie.

The schooners Fairy Queen and Flora arrived at Rarotonga on December 2ist, and reported having experienced a hurricane at sea a few days previously, hut sustained no serious damage. The Fairy Queen was to have left for Auckland about tho 7th inst,, with Mr A. B. Donald and Captain Schultz (of tho Atlantic) as passengers.

Tho s.s. Waltaki arrived from Whangarei last evening, with the following passengers :— Moßdames Carter, Bailey, Crlspe, and 2 child ren, Misses Armstrong, Puge, Archibald, Bishop Cowio and wifo, Captain Anderson, Masters Clarke, Wilson. Meredith, Messrs Mc- Naughton, Chambers, Gerring, Carter, Taylor, McCoskio, Learmonth, Mahoney, Lambert (2), Thomas, Finlayson, Bennett.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS.

Douglas, S.S., Scott, from Hokianga Hauraki, s.s., Harvey, from Waitara

DEPARTURES.

Takapuna, s.s., Jones, for the South Wanaka, 8.8., Neville, for tho South I_.lla Rookh, s.s., Bailey, for Waitara Hannah Mokau, s.s., Dale, for Waitara Hauraki, s.s„ Harvey, for Opunako Douglas, s.a„ Scott, for Waitara

Tho Union Co.'s s.s. Takapuna left for the South yesterday afternoon at 2.3", with the fol lowing passengers—Messrs Hobbs, Mltcbolson, Sodden, Gray, Vallance, Pilbrow, Wattio, Fletohor, Stanford, Dowling, Arthur, Bycrofr, French, Butler, Beggs, Lccdhum, Buddie, Col ony, O'Connor, Prime, Nowton, Chapman, Goss- Ung, and Master Mitcheleon, .Misses Mitchol son, Kissling, Buddlo, and 15 in tho stcerago.

The Union Co.'s s.s. Wunaka left, for Southern ports at 3.30 p.m. yesterday. Passengers—Mes dames Smart, Grovor, Poatell, Holmes, and Russell, Misses Bishop, Noakes, and Curray, Messrs Gooer, Holmes, Lyell, Goosey, Leo, Ollror.Postell, Smith, Rev. Russoll, and 30 iv the steerage.

The steamers Hannah Mokaii, Lal'a Rookh and Douglas, left for tho Waitara this morning]

The 8.8. Hauraki 'left for Opunako and Wan ganui this afternoon at 2 o'clock.

Tho Northern Company's s.s. Argylc left for Raglan at 5 o'cloak this evening with a quantity of cargo.

KAIPARA SHIPPING.

[FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.]

Kaipara Heads, Tuesday.—Arrivals, Jan. 21: Sarah Pile, brigantine, from Wellington.

Wo havo had no departures slnoo tho 2nd of January, the weather has been so very un settled and stormy, the wind veering between West and South with very few exceptions. The following vessels are lying at tho Heads windbonnd:—ltaly, Free Trader, Waitemata, Vision, Nightingale. Darcy Pratt, Torea.

Tho W. C. Wontworth is loaded at Tauhoa ; also, Ooean Ranger at Kopuru, and Robin Hood at Aratapu.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Russell, this day.—Arrived: Waihora, from Auckland, 4.30 a.m. Whangarei, this day .—Arrived: MaeGrogor, from Auckland, 7.30 a.m. Port Chalmers, this day.—Sailed, Bombay, s.s., for London, 11 n.m. Melbourne, January 22.—Sailed: Mana pourl, for Bluff. Sydney, January 22.— Arrived, yostorday morning: Rlngarooma, from Auckland.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails will Close ab under:—

Tnis Day.

For Wlumtjarci Heads, Whangarei, Kamo, and Mangapai, por Wuitaki, at 6 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m.

Thursday, 24th inst.

For Gisborne. Napier, and Southern Ports, per

Taiaroa, at 9 a.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 9.30 a.m. For Walwora, To Kapa, Craigieburn, \Vark-

worth, etc., per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Tauranga, Ohinomutu, and Opotiki, per

Glenelg, at 4 p.m. For Mangawai uud Kaiwakn, per Ruby, nt 5

p.m. For Whangarei Heads, Kaino, Whangarei, and Mangapai, per Rowena, at i p.m.

Friday, 2jth Inst. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 10 a.m. For Wellington and Southern Ports, per

llauroto, at 11 n.m. For Cowos and Coromandel, per Coromandel, at 1. »p.m, Saturday, 2lith Inst. For Taranaki and Southern Ports (and London via Itio do Janeiro from Lyttelton per Aornngi), por Takapnna, at 3.15 ii.in. Tuesday, sth February. Per s.s. Australia 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. .'or monoy orders, tho provious evening at I o'clock.

For registered letters and nowspapers, at 10 a.m.

I.vto letters, boaring an extra fee of six pence in addition to tho postage, will bo received by tho Mail Agent on board tho steamer up to the time of sailing. This mail will bo duo in London on Sat urday, March 15. 1881.

S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster, Chlof Post-oflico, Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

January 23, 1881,

Abbott's Opera Houso—"Led Astray;" com plimentury benefit to Mr A. Elliot, 8 p.m.

Wesleyan Church, Ponsonby —Evimgolistic Sorvico, 7.31 p.m. City Guards-Drill-shed, 7.30 p.m. Working Men's Club—Emergency Meeting of Delegates, Eight Hours Demonstration, 7.30 p.m.

Alexander-street School-room — A.O.S, Monthly Meeting of Sanctuary, City of Auck land, 8 p.m.

Notices to Correspondents.

Kauri.—The quantities at gum exported from Auckland from the year 1871 to the year 1880 (inclusive) are given in Brett's Auckland Almanac as follows:—1871, 5,206 tons; 1872, 4,681; 1873. 2,619; 1874, 2,196; 1875, 3,127 ; 1876, 2,871; 1877, 3.418; 1878, 3.410; 1879, 3,247; 1880, . estimated, 5,500. Total, 36,308 tons. Ignis.—Yes, an inquest was hold in connection with tho recent lire in Symonds-street, hut the evidence did not result in the conviction of anyone for incendiarism.

Births.

ROBINSON.—On January 21st. at her residence, Jervois Road, Ponsonby, tho wife of J. C.

Robinson of a son. ROBINSON.—On January 20. at her residence, York-atreot, Newton, the wife ot James Robinson of a daughter.

Marriage.

USHER-CLEMENTS.-On January 1!). 18S4, at Parnell. by tho Rev. Mr Bruco. Thomas Usher to A. M. Cloinonts, both of Middlesex, England.—English papers ploase copy.

Deaths.

DALDY.—On January 23. 18S1, at Anglcsca atreet, Ponsonby, Klsio Beatrice, donrly he loved daughter of William C. and Kate Paldy; aged 9 months.—Private interment. SMITH.—On January 19, at Ti-Trco Flat, Knu kapakapa. Emily Charlotto, beloved and only child of William and Margaret Smith; aged two months and one day.

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

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 23, 1884.

For tho caußO that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance, For the futuro in tho distance, And the good that wo can do.

Our Wellington correspondent telegraphs that the Ministry aro still undecided what to do with respect to the loss that has accrued through the Hon. Mr Johnston's injudicious reductions on tho Canterbury grain freight. The proper courso is mani festly to return to a payable rate, but this means offending tho whole of tho Canterbury members, who have given the present Ministry a very ardent support. It is easy to lower rates, but very much more difficult to raise them again, and the Cabinet have been placed In a very awkward fix by the indiscretion of the late Minister of Works. Nevertheless, this is a matter on which an honest Ministry should be pre. pared to stake their seats. Upon its deter mination depends the question whether tho whole colony is to subsidise tiie grain growers by submitting to additional taxa tion, and property-owners may depend upon it that tho limit of taxation through the Customs and Stamps has been reached ; any increase of duty will, if past experience teaches anything, only tend to decreaso the receipts by forcing the taxed goods out of consumption. It is, moreover, monstrous that tho masses who are without property should be asked to make good a deficit caused by the construction and manage ment of railways, which enhance the value of property, and are constructed mainly for its benefit. Let tho property classes, therefore, look to themselves. The ten dency to resort to the Property Tax for making up a deficiency is so easy that to counteract it it may be necessary to form a Traders' and Settlers' Leaguo. Tho colony has just raised another million, requiring £40,000 more for interest. There is a De partment in existence whispering to tho Treasurer: "Leave that to us. We are studying tho accounts of public companies, and they will stand milking yet more." The Commissioner of Customs revises tho exemption list, and goods heretofore free aro made to pay duty. But money does not flow so freely to this colony as formerly, the ve?y tendency to fly to tho Property Tax for another farthing being tho deterrent and tjie reason—as local bankers can testify—why large sums have Sone for investment to Queensland and few South Wales. The gallant Major has said that the philosophy of the Property Tax is that those who liave shall pay, but those who have some gencially (almost in variably in New Zealand) use the savings of others across the seas, and if the lenders are shy the improvements are less, the labour fund is drained sooner, there is less breadth of land in Industrial occupation, and fewtr Dorics will bo required for yant of return cargo. Every addition to the Property Tax recoils on tho borrower, who on renewing tho loan is c&'.'ed upon to pay the interest and irin cipal often in London without any deduc tion for colonial property tax. But better than discontinue expenditure for bridges, roads, &-., js to amalgamate offices, and make those who boije^t by railways pay for them.

We can see looming ahead out of tho annually increasing extravagance of the Government fl double attack—Due that affects property and one that touches the whole population. Tha former will make its assault by .a proposal for increasing tho property tax; tho other will aifti q.t the people through tbe abolition ,pf th,P £500/ exemption and the reduction of the Educa tion Department. Beth classes should stand on their guard, and both aro interested in making a common resistance against tho disposition to continually increase a taxa tion which already exceeds per hoad that of any other .country (Western Australia ex cepted) in Her Jlaj!es.ty-'s dominions. The property classes cried out ag^jnst the extravagance of tho Grey Administration, but verily if they were smitten with whips before, they have been beaten with mcorpions B\wq, The national expenditure of Now Zealai?<ji pn the ordinary departments pf Goyercmwijb /exclusive of interest on loans, which nas increased £375,000) is, in round numbers, _17f_,fj_0 greater per year now than whw'ths QreyMinistry l.f.pffice. The increase of population will fairly ac . count for some of this, but j't was pn the folth pf promises that the administration should bo cheapened and simplified that th* present Ministry obtained office. Those promises, after' five yjsflj. ot pppprtunity, remain unfulfilled,

The Regatta Committee and the Trading Vessels Race.

We greatly fear that the Regatta Com.

mittee, by their recent resolution foj fiandi cap vessels in the Champion Trading Vessels Race (over 50 tons), aro about to do th^ shipbuilding interests of Auckland a very serious,.though no doubt unintentional, in jury. We are quite sure that the full effects of this rule were not properly considered before it was adopted, and even at the eleventh hour we would urge the Committee

to revert to the old practice beforo tho an ccptanco of entries makes it too late. For, assuming that handicappers could bo found possessing judgment enough to assess tho sailing qualities of each vessel exactly at its right proportion (which is, of coin-so, im possible), what will bo the effect on the repu tation of this port of sonio antiquated craft being thereby enabled to carry away the champion flag in a contest with the flower of Auckland's fleet ? Why, the vessel may be sent away from here and sold by virtue of a falso reputation, which will continue lo bring disgrace upon the shipbuilders of Auckland until some providential storm or fortuitous reef erases her name from tho register. Tho proposal for handicapping vessels arises from an utterly mistaken idea of the object of regattas and sailing contests. Is it supposed by the Committee that the public subscribe money for tho mere purpose of seeing a race which traverses a course that removes the competitors almost entirely out of tho view of spectators ? The reasons that have been urged year by year, with unfailing forco, are of a moro utilitarian sort. Auck land possesses, in shipbuilding, a groat in dustry, and our annual regattas have afforded a trial-ground upon which builders havo put their models to the crucial tost.' Yacht has been built to outsail yacht, schooner to match schooner, and so builders have obtained something like a standard of excellence in linos for speed, for draught, and for carrying capacity ; our vessels have steadily improved until their reputation is known in overy port, and shipowners can send their orders to reputable builders hero with confidence that they will be done jus tice to. Now, what does the Regatta Com mittoo propose ? To reward mediocrity and decorato with champion honours some antediluvian hooker whoso very existence is a discredit to the port, in deference to tho undue pressure of tho owners of these barges, or for tho sako of some silly spectacular effect. Surely tho Committee have notsoriously considered what they are doing. Whero can precedent be found Im policy so insane? The entiro shipbuilding interests of tho port should riso in solemn protest against the jeopardising of their good name and tho exposure of themselves and the port to tho ridlculo of Australasia.

But if tho Committee could establish tho wisdom of tho principlo of handi capping, there is not tho neces sary data for applying it. A horso is not handicapped according to his points, but his performances. Wo understand that tho rule has been adopted for tho solo purpose of excluding ono vessel, and that a new ono, which has never ended for any race. As a niaidon this vessel should, ac cording to established rules of handi capping, be admitted on the vory host terms; but tho proposal of the Committee would, wo suppose, have the indecent effect of weighting her according to the dictum of hnndicappei. interested in shipbuild ing, who may be influenced by their private prejudices. And what is tho worth of any individual's opinion of the delinito results which will be obtained from any untried model of a vessel? Do wo not see such opinions falsiiicd over and over again ? Tho proceeding is so utterly bad in principle and unworkable practically; so damaging in its consequences, even if equal conditions could bo obtained ; so detri mental to tho purposo for which the race was instituted, and such a complete falsification of its name as a Champion Race; and, what is more serious still, so ruinous to tho welfare of an important industry, that wo cannot boliove the Committoo will persist in putting thoir resolution into operation. If owners and builders of vessels are so timorous and short-sighted as to mako this race a pot raco instead of a champion contest, the Regatta Committeo should not be weak enough to yield to their persuasions. By all means, adopt a rule that will oxcludo yachts; but whon a vessel is built as a bona file trading vessel, it ought to be admitted on equal terms with others (reasonable time for tonnage being conceded), It is for the builder to exercise his ingenuity in designing tho vessel to meet tho requirements of tho trade for whicli sho is intended. There is safety enough against abuse in tho assurance that no man is such a fool as to spoil a valuable property on tho barechnnco of winning any prize that tho Auckland Rogatta Committeo is likely to ofler. When there is any such danger it is time to reduco tho value of the prizo,

His Honor Mr Justice Gillies gave rather an important decision to-day in regard to tho new Bankruptcy Act and its operation. Application was mado for the adjudication of a debtor named Thomas -Glover, who it appeared had no assets wherewith to .satisfy his creditors' claims. His Honor thereupon ruled that in such casos whon there is no estate to bo distributed advantage cannot bo taken of tho Act.

Tho Society for tho Prevontion of Cruelty to Animals aro apparently prosecuting their work with effect. Last Saturday a man was seen ''sawing" a horse's mouth with the bit in Albert-styect, and when remon strated with gave as a reason that he had lost his temper. Yesterday information was loft with the Society that an unfortu nate cow was running in tho Domain with a calf in very low condition. The matter was inquired into to-day, and the result is that the cow will bo destroyed at onco.

At a sitting of the Compensation Court yesterday, a claim by Mr Oxloy for 1.500 for land taken for a road at Holensvillo by the Government was heard. The sum of L 75 had been offered, and this amount was ordered by tho Court to bo paid. The sitting was before Judge Gillies and Messrs Barstow and Wado, Assessors.

Messrs A. and J. Andprson shii pod toj day per Taiaroa from Gisborne 21 two-tooth Lincoln ranis, pure bred, all from imported Stock. Two of these gained first and second prizes respectively at tho late Show Tho whole of tho sheep wcro splendid spooi men of Lincoln stock, and reflect credit on tho breeders,

Tho Heywood will case is likely to bo sottled, it boing probable that the basis of an arrangement will bo determined between tho parties. Tho proposal is that Mr George Staines, the defendant, shall pay LI.OOO into Court in satisfaction of all demands, costs, &c.

Mrs Margaret Knight, wifo of Mr Knight, fruiterer, of Queen-street, was brought into Court this morning on a charge of boing of unsound mind, and remanded for a week, pending a medical examination. Mrs Knight repudiates the charge, but it was 6vident that she is suffering under much mental excitement in consequence, as sho asserts, of domestic disquietude. Sho is not quito so well this morning, still it is hoped that sho may be restored to health by rest and change.

In Banco to-day, Mr Justico Gillies decided that trustees who confide trust moneys tp solicitors' hands can bo hold responsible for any'loss that may accrue

Professor Payne, tho champion shot of tho world, will open in Auckland for a short season about'fl, fortnfg)it'"hence. He has dono very well at the Thames, and is now in Waikato,

J. W. Carr and Sons have Just completed tho model for a new steam launch to be built for the Wairoa trado, for Mr Mai tin. She will be 75 feet in length, diagonal built, fitted with compound engines, and schooner-rigged, gfrp is pxpected to steam 10 knots an liour. Her carrying capacity will be much larger than that of the steamer now running, which is also owned by Mi- Martin. The steam launch Erin, recently built to the order of Mr Roaoho, Te Aroha, lias proved a great success, aB sho is the fastest pqq,t pi) Hip river, doing 1.2 knots an hour.

A mooting ot tho Charitable A}d Society was hold yesterday afternoon in tho City Council Chambers, Mr R, W. Waddel (Mayor) in the chair. Tho following gentle men were appointed members' of the Executive Committee :—Messrs W. Tliorne, J, Buchanan, Dando, Ralph, Keesing, F. Cr. Ewington and Theo. Coopor ; Mr C. C. McMillan was ploeted treasurer. It was further resolved that the Present, Vice- President and Treasurer bp member? flf oxecutive ex officio. Thirty-fight Applica tions woro received for the post of S.erot.iry to the Society, and it was resolved to re duce tho number to six.' The next meeting o* .the executive will be held on Friday for Xuo' jjiKposo of selecting the fittest applicant for the position, and to report thci-oon to a general niedtfjig^f subscj-fb.r.s,

To tho Editor; Sir.—l beg to draw at tention to ft statement in your jssuo of the 22nd inst,'stating that I was ft candidate Jar the pilot vacancy. This I positively d~ny, J applied, on hearing that Captain WcKenzie had resigned, for tho position of Deputy Harbour-master, addressing my ap application to the Chairman ijtjd members of the Harbour Board. H cv .- tjjp blunder has taken placo rests with' l} f p above (not tho only one). Allow mo also to ptatp that the only two members of tho Harbour $oar 4 that I have addres.ed on the subject (and they since the appointment)' were riot 'aware that 1 had be&u a candidate, ona re marking that it was all cut anbl di-jc/d before the members sat, and the other that ho did not support the one appointed, inferring that the appointment was on strong ground, weighty enough to sink all others applying, —lam &c, Gavin Weir,

A correspondent, "Anti-Bosh," writes that ho does not think the remarks ot Mr Hannnford in reference to the probable re sult of tho band playing in Albert Park either very truthful or very complimentary to tho Auckland community, and that ho has no warranty for the statement that if the band played there there would not be n flower loft within a mile. Up to the present time, he adds, notwithstanding the thousands of visiters to tho Park, not a flower bush seems to have been touched, nor has the gardener made any complaints in that direction, The remarks made by Mr Hannnford, in "Ant-Bosh's" opinion, are a reflection on tho community, and not creditable to their author.

The drawing for Mr Hay's art union of pictures took placo last night in St. James's Hall, in the presence of a fair number of tho subscribers. Messrs J, I. Bii-ley, J. I. Oakos, W. E. Lewis, If. W. Nappor, R. S. Boyes, and another gentleman wore appointed a commit teo, and by them tho drawing wan carried out. The winning numbers will be found in our advertising columns.

Tho monthly inspection of tho Victorias was held in tiie Drill-shed last night. As usual, there was a good muster of this com pany. Captain Mnhon, Lieutenants Skinner and Self wore presont on parade. In the absence of Major Shophord, Sergeant-Major llasloni called the roll. Tho Company was put through a long and serviceable drill by Captain Million, the different movements executed being done in a soldier-liko stylo. After parade, headed by tho Garrison Band, the Company marched through Queen street, where the dismissal took place

The City Schools Committee havo rccom mondod Mr Nowoll Phillips for appoint ment to tho vacant second assistant mastership of the Wcllosley-stroot School. Tho Boroford-street School appointment was conforrod upon Mr Julian Brook, and it was decided that on the ovont of his de clining it, that tho position should be oil-rod Miss Longmoro,

The creditors in the estate of David White, farmer, Pukekoho, have recom mended tho debtor's discharge.

The Firo Brigado Dramatic entertain ment, announced to take placo on tho 2Sth inst. (Monday next), promises to bo very successful. Wo learn that tho Garrison Band havo kindly offered their services for the occasion.

A panoramic exhibition, by Mr IT. it. Smith, was given in tho Nowton West School last evening. Thoro was a fair attendance, and tho audience wero much pleased with tho varied and beautiful scenery placed before them. Tho views comprised English, Continental, and New Zealand scenery, Auckland of to-day con trasted with Auckland of 30 years ago; also, a tour from Auckland to tho Hot Lakes via Tauranga, Ohiuemutu, and the Rotomahana Lukes, and Pink and Whito Terrace.. The entertainment was in aid of tho Arch Hill Band of Hopo Festival Fund, and during the evening sovoral Hand of Hope hymns, which had bejii photographed by Mr Smith, were shown on tho sheet and sung by the members of tho Band of Hope.

Subscribers to Messrs Blackio and Virtue's books aro requested by advertise ment to send in the noxt number required, as tho delivery book was destroyed by tho late firo in High-street.

To tho Editor : Sir, —Permit me a short space in your paper to correct a statonient in tho evideneo given at the inquost on Mr W. B. Langbridgo. Tho deceased gontle ninn never did take a glass of champagne in my houso since I have had tho management of tho presont hotel or tho former one. I can positively assort that I, or any of my waiters, never saw him tho worse for liquor. Whon ho did call it was invariably on business. On tho lGth and 17th (or 18th) inst. Mr Langbridgo called at tho hotel between 2 and 3 o'clock, drank a pint of alo, played a game of billiards with a gen tleman who accompanied him, and thon wont away, both quite sober. I and my waiters can testify to same ; therefore I can scarcely understand how the deceased gen tleman could tell Mr Bennett such a trumped-up tale.—Yours, Se., Hubert Oram.

The members and friends of tho Sir Henry Havelock Lodge of (food Templar., No. 1, New Zealand Order, held a social and varied monthly entertainment last evening in tho Lodge - room, Alexandra street. Brother A. Weir, W.C.T., presided, and directed tho parlour games. A number of Indies and members contributed piano forte solos and selections, songs and recita tions, viz., Sisters Mills, Marson, McGill, and E. Anderson ; Brother Mclntyro gave an admirable recitation. Brother Clifford, in his address, referred to a brother of the Lodge «ho met with a severe accident which has incapacitated him from following his employment. It was agreed to tender a benefit concert for his immediate wants. Tho entertainment was successful, and closed with tho doxology.

A well-attended meeting of the parishion ers of tho Church of the Holy Trinity, Otahuhu, took place on Monday evening, Rev. Frank Gould in the chair. Tho churchwardens' report was favourably re ceived, which showed tho receipts for tho year to bo £231 9s 3d; expenditure, £215 Is lOd, leaving a balance of £10 7s od. Messrs Fairbum and Dull'us wore re-elected churchwardens, and Messrs Box, Shep pard, Luke, Dr. Erson, W. R. Wills, Kympton, Brown, Plumloy, C. A. Bowden, and G. Willis were elected vestrymen. Messrs Slieppard, Box, Luko and For shawo were appointed to introduco strangers to seats at Church service; and Sunday week's offertory was agreed to be set apart as Hospital collections.

To tho Editor : Sir,—Replying to the letter of Mr W. Flosher in last night's Issue, I would say, as a representative to the district meeting, that as Mr Flcsher did his vory best to enlighten tho mooting with bis statistics ro union, without in the least influencing its opinion, it may be reasonably implied that his arguments based in that way wore regarded as of little or no practical valuo. Tho meeting was evidently of tho opinion, from all tho facts presented to it, that the circuits had pronounced vory largely in favour of union, and the rosult of tho voting, 13 for union, 4 against, after a freo, full, and exhaustive discussion of the subject, fully endorses this view. I think Mrßowron failed to see tho point involved ro higher education. Cannot rich laymen oven now give this higher education .to their sons? But if thoy were educated under our own auspices, the contact with tho sons of ministers and other likc;inindcd youths, in conjunction with such specialrcligious training as they would bo likely to receive, would tend to secure them to our churches, Apologising for trespassing upon your space,—l am, sir, yours, &c, J. Tatters___.

The sympathies of several persons in Kybcr Pass Road, nearly opposite St. Sepulchre's Church, were called into bono volont action last evening by a weeping little girl, who was sitting on tho path side grass, crying and sobbing as though her full heart was bursting with intense grief. The child was decently dressed, wearing a pulled black velvet hat, and black lustre dress trimmed with groy. "What is the matter, my little dear? What is your name?'1 and similar questions, were put by persqns passing. Again there was a rapid succession of tears, and the scarcely audible words : "I'm afeard to go home; I've lost a two-shllling-piece; mammy '11 beat mo and put me to bed wjthout my supper; I havon't got no pa." Coins, clip after anofher, larger than those of church offertories, were dropped into the child's lap, accompanied bywords of tender ness, ovory word touching tho child's sensi bilities, and figurativolv turning the tap of the palpitating little heart, Tho sudden appearance of a person whoso feelings had been exercised on a previous night to the extent of a florin broko the spell, and turned tlj.e tidp of human sympathy. The gentle manly individual who had boon imposed iipon' exclaimed, •" Vqt, my loptle im. po.itoor, vouping again? Ipst another two shillings, oh ? hero comes Constable Dews ; Dews, hoi." The name of this, offloer had an instant effect upon the little innocent, who caught up six or seven shillings from Ijpi- lap, and, active as a fawn, skedaddled ayound O'gpnjor's corner.

SPECIAL WELLINGTON TELEGRAM.

[IIV TELEGRAPH. —OWN CORRESPONDENT.]

No Tendor For Totara Files,

Wellington, this day. Satdbday was the day appointed for receiving tenders for the supply of totara piles for the Public Works Department. The lengths required were 30ft., not an unusual size, and tenders had been called in tho Auckland and Wellington districts. To tho surpriso of tho Department, however, no tenders were received. I think tho matter worth making a note of for tho benefit of those concerned in tho Auckland

timber industry,

Tho Tariff on Canterbury Railways,

I am given to understand that tho ques tion of dealing with tho loss that has accrued on the Canterbury railways through the concessions which the Into Minister of Public Works made on tho grain tariff is still under consideration of tho Cabinet, but nothing will bo sottled until Mr Mitchel son, who is not expected, arrives. It is regarded as a vory ticklish subject politi cally, tho pressure of the Canterbury members, which secured tho reduction, being powerful enough to make Ministers dubious about taking tho only proper course —that of bringing the freight up again to a payable rate. It is rumoured tho Ministers are by no means agreed on tho subject.

LEPROSY IN THE SOUTH ISLAND.

[IIV TK.Uf.'IUI'II. —PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Invkkoahcill, this day. At a meeting of tho Wnllaco and Ford Hospital Committee, held in Rivorton, it was reported that a Chinaman suffering from leprosy was living in a houso about two miles from town. The sufferer is said to have como from Round Hill diggings. Further inquiries will bo made by tiio medical officer as to tho truth of tho state ment made, but in tho meantime tho Com mitteo havo decided not to roceivo the pationt into tho hospital.

BIBLE-READING IN SCHOOLS.

[by telegraph—press association.]

Dunedin, this day. The Synod last night carried by a largo majority the ovortureof Dunedin Presbytery to memorialise Parliament to amend the Education Act so as to allow of daily Bible-reading during school hours. Mr Lothian's amendment for tho appointmont of a committeo to co-operate with any othor branches of tho reformed churches, in ordor to ascertain whether it was possible for the churches by united action to organiso a stall" of trained, oflicient, and paid Bible instructors who shall dovoto themsclvos to giving Biblo instruction periodically at stated hours in public shools, found no seconder.

SCINTILLATIONS.

Bad weather all over the colony

"Led Astray" for Mr Arthur Elliot's benefit to-night. hook out for tho steamer Doric next wcok. Hon. W. Rolleßton has returned to Wel lington from Christchurch. New York has 214 miles of street paved with granite blocks. Madame Lotti Wilmot is, it is believed, dying at Hutt, Wellington. The Bukuhia goods shed is said to stand in a swamp 40 feet deep without connec tion with tho road or railway.

In future tho New Zealand Shipping Company's direct steamers will all call at Holart on their outward voyage from London.

A Timnru pawnbroker was yesterday lined i's and costs (245) for taking articles iv pawn from an intoxicated man. Tho harvest in Hawke's Bay this year is later than it has been for ten years. Some of tho hay is not yet cut. Why docs a man dress up his wife for other mon to run after, and then havo tha tradesmen running aftor him ?

1 -62 inches' of rain fell in Christchurch yesterday—moro than tho average rainfall for the wholo month of January.

England has 200 bicycle-makers, who turn out 50,000 machines a year.

The French Government has placed about 170 judges on the retired list. Tho powerful chiefs of Samoa aro still anxious to havo tho islands annexed to Now Zealand. They want our Government to send down a steamer for a deputation. Waikato farmers complain of the dopro dations of sparrows. In ono field fully four acres of wheat have beon devoured by this multitudinous pest. Road Boards pro scribe " potent poison." John Henry, a coach proprietor, was yes terday found dead beneath a capsized coach at Peel Torres, South Canterbury.

At Mattoon, Illinois, David Woods and his team wcro attacked by a swarm of honey bees and stung to death. Raglan ironstone has been analysed and found to bo hematite, containing .1-67 per cent, of iron oxide, 3-43 per cent, of alumina, 7-10 per cent, of silica, &,c, and 7'SO por cent, of water.

" Thoro is no accounting for tastes," as tho young man remarked when asked by his fair fiancee how many kisses ho had had.

Tho Nelson hop crop is vory backward, on account of tho unseasonable weather. Besides being late jb will bo small—some growers estimating their " pick " at ono fourtli to ono-half of last year's.

Young lady: "What, doctor, do philo sophers also fall in love? " Doctor : " Can you for a moment doubt about that? Think you that women are loved by fools alone ?" A resolution urging tho prosecution of tho survey of tho central railway routo, start ing from Fielding, was passed at a public meeting in Fielding on Monday night. Tho introduction of post-cards in Franco has not hitherto been very successful. Only .'12,000,000 wcro used in ISB2, against 1-10,000,000 in England. An iron steamer, to draw only 15 inches of water, and to carry 100 passengers, has been mado for traffic on the river between Christchurch and New Brighton—being able to pass under all the bridges. The annual meeting of St. Matthew's Church, Dunedin, was hold last night, Bishop Noville presiding. Tho revenue for the year was £930, and the expenditure £1,200, showing a doficjency of £330. At Wellington Regatta yesterday, which took placo in very boisterous weather, the first-class yacht race finished at half-past seven. The Thetis was first, Isca second, and Arifa third. Tho course was 25 miles. A number of pvents were postponed tjll Saturday next. Rev. Joseph Long, Primitive Methodist minister, is superannuated, and intends taking up his residence in Auckland. About 80 " old identities "met in Wel lington last night and celebrated the 44th anniversary qf that province by a dinner, presided oyer by Sir Wm. Fitzhprbert, The Auckland tramway contract, far which tenders are called, embraces No. 1 section, as follows :—Dp Quoen, Wollesley, Hobson, and Pitt-streets, Karangahapo, Ponsonby, and College Roads, round by Customhouse - street to Queen-street, point of commencement. The sections from Howe-street to Ponsonby Road and from Franklin Road to Ponsonby dep6t are not included, jiqwpypr, as the leypls are not yot fis-4,

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Bofj)j.'p Jfassrs F. G. Clayton and F. Maguiro, Drunk.—Patrick Morap, 5s ipifl cos,ts. DRSEKTios.-Jolin Flatley was cliip-gcfl with

a breach of the Navfil Dißcjplino Act by 4p: sorting from tho ship Esploglo on the 17th,— Prisonor pleaded guilty, and was ordorod to bo

sent on board lI.M. ship Lark. Exposure op Person.—An eldorly man named John Brook, a brickmaker. of Newton. who had been remanded for a week, was again brought up on a charge of exposing himself while in a Otatc pf drunkenness.—Mr Hugh Campbell appeare- in tjiia p^sp; find n eftded uuilty uudor tlio circumstances. BrpbU-.liad Formar-ly given way to intemperate habits, but nine fitfmfhv ago.'•]}. pi.de a determined effort to live a aobor and industrious Iff o | and. by tho kindly advice of Mr Kwingtpn, ho hud taken thel>&_e » M-, linfo«unatoly at Christmas time lie took drink and fell, and, ao the Gil'nnco °t which hp was charEpd was not wilful, and tho manfcavjiu. s«. <>>'« sJ?»^ffj in prison, Mr Campbell hoped the Bpneh would deal withpriaoneraa leniently as poßßible.-Mr Ewington said tho man had ahttlo property, bu I inconsequence ot domestic troubles ho had no I hndMs meals regularly. Hohadpronileedltojoin the Blue Kibboa Army arid lead a new life. He bad made strenuous offorta to do so, and he believed ho would bofaithful to his promise,-5s . and costs of maintenance, { This was all tho business,

CABLEGRAMS.

[reOTER's CABLEGRAMS.]

ATTEMPT TO MURDER THE PRINCE

OF WALES.

Supposed Fenian Outrage,

LoNnoN, January 22.—Two packages ct ntaining dynamite have been discovered in a tunnel near Euston Square Railway Station. As His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales was about to travel northwards by the London and North-western line, and the discovery was made prior to his departure, it is believed that it was intended to wreck the train by which the Prince proposed to travel. It is thought that the projected outrage is tho work of Fenian emissaries ; but up to the present time no arrests have been made by the police. Tho diseovory caused much excitement and indignation.

(Received Jan. -23, 1.25 p.m.)

Tho Victorian Four Million Loan,

London, January 10. Tenders for the Victorian Loan of four millions sterling at i per cent, at par mini mum wore opened to-day, when the total amount oil'ercd was found to bo £5,550,000. Tonders at -100 ls (id will receive 90 per cent., and above that price in full.

Death of Earl Grosvenor,

Tho death is announced to-day of Ea'l Orosvenor, heir to the Dukedom of West minster, aged 31,

Bank Dividend,

The English, Scottish, and Australia chartered bank has declared a dividend at tho rate of 10 per cent, per annum, and places Ll ~000 to reserve. Baker Pasha In the Soudan. Cairo, January 21.—News to hand from tho Soudan states that Baker Pasha, since his arrival, has been parleying with tho shioks of tho desert Arab tribes, and with considerable success, several of them who have been in rebellion having submitted to the Egyptian Government. Murder and Robbery.

M_I._OUR.NE, January 22.—A case of sus pected robbery and murder is reported to have occurred near Ceelong. Francis Beech, fanner, living at J'ettavel, was found to have boon murdered in his houso, and his wife was in a dying state. Tho houso had been ransacked throughout. No arrests have yet been mado.

[Special to Press Association.]

(Received January 23—1.45 p.m.) Tho Victorian Loan Floated.

London, January 22.—Tho Victorian Loan of four millions has been covered.

Serious Illness of tho Queen,

London, January 21.—Tho health of Her Majesty tho Queen is unsatisfactory, and she is unablo to stand for moro than a few minutes.

Tho Russian paper " Novoo Vromya" attacks Baron Maclay for favouring the projects of England in Now Cuinca.

Queensland is offering to convert two and a-half million bonds into inscribed stock.

AUSTRALIAN.

Now South Wales Estimates.

Sydney, this day. — Tho Now South Wales estimates of expenditure were tabled in Parliament last evening. They show a total estimated expenditure of £7,710,000, as against £0,810,000 last year, being an increaso of £899,000. Melbourne Grain Market. Melbourne, January 22.—Tho Mel bourne manager of the National Mortgage Agency Company of New Zealand (Limited) reports of tho local grain market as fol lows :—Wheat in moderate demand at 4s to 4s Id ; malting barley, 4s to 4s Od. Quotations nominal. Now Zealand oats: Feeding sorts in favour of buyers at 2s lid to 3s Id; milling ditto in request at re duced prices, 3s Id to 3s 2d. New Zea land oats, under bond, 2s 5d to 2s Bd. Prices of barley maintained.

NATIVE OBSTRUCTION TO SURVEYS.

[uy TELEGRAPH. — OWN CORRESPONDENT.]

Cambridge, this day. The nativo difficulty at Waotu is once more about to start into prominence. It will be remembered that Mr Stubbing commenced to survey some fow weoks ago,when he was obstructed by Whatuiao and party and obliged to desist. Survey operations have since been suspended until the othor day, when Mr Stubbing was instructed to pro ceed with the survey, and when obstructed report to the Department. Ho was to have commenced running a lino through the dis puted territory this morning. Since he returned to the ground Whatuiao . party have been doing sentry work and watching their every movement, and it is expected that as soon as work will be commenced this morning, tho women will como down and start by endeavouring to walk off with Mr Stubbing . instruments.

OPIUM HOUSE.-"Romeo and Juliet."

Tho Auckland Debutante.

"Romeo and Juliet," with Miss Pomeroy and Miss Mariebel Greonwood in tho two loading rOles, was repmrl-.-•• .1 !-, ; night, whon another crowded ...., viiUiusiastic audience assembled. The performance was gono through most successfully—Miss Pomoroy and hor youthful pupil being tho recipients of many floral favours, accom panied by rounds of applause Miss Groen wood gives ovory present promise of developing into a powerful tragedienne— her acting in scenes calling for depth of passion being moro natural than in the purely conventional situations. Miss Pomeroy's Romeo is a most skilful imper sonation ; tho character suits her build and temperament much better than that of the studious and sombre Hamlet, and her rich voice finds full scope in the passionate love scenes in which Romeo takes part. The other characters wcro well sustained, and the artistes who filled tho various parts received a share of the plaudits. Close of tho Pomeroy Season, Only two moro nights remain before tho present season closes. To-night Mr Arthur Elliot takes a well-earned benefit, when Boucicault's drama, " Led Astray," is to bo presented. In announcing with regret the close.of the season, Miss Pomeroy last night stated that on Thursday evening (to-morrow) Miss Greenwood would again appear, play ing Ophelia to Miss Pomeroy's Hamlet. Thpugh not so heavy a rOle as Juliet, the part Of Ophelia h is special difficulties, and the assumption p'f it by Miss Greenwood affords an opportunity of applying n crucial test of that young lady's histrionic ability.

UNITED METHODIST FREE CHURCHES' ASSEMBLY.

I,ast Day's Sittings.

The "Magaaino" report wife received and adopted, and the Rev. J, White re-appointed Editor.

Committee on Union.—Tho Revs. S. Macfarlano, C. Worboys, J. White, and Mr George Booth were appointed to confer with committees of other Methodist bodies pn union. Resolutions.—Resolutions were passed on temperance apd o« the C. D. Acts. The following is the text of the latter :—" That this district meeting desires to record its uttor abhor nee and condemnation of theso immoral and - infamous Acts; it also dosires to express its deep and deepening conviction that theso Acts are opposed to the principles of_ religion, constitutional jibe-to, awl, justipe, and urges all tho officials and private mpmbprs of ouy churches to use all constitutional moans to obtain their early repeal."

Stations or Ministers. — Addington, Robert Taylor ; Auckland, Samuel Macfar lane ; Bingsland (Richmond), Joseph White ; Christchurch, Charles Worboys ; Malvern. \ Napier and Waipawa, E, Qyenden Perry: Oxfpn|. Alfred i\>tore; Rangiora, John Packtn ; iteeftun, Charles Penny ; Woodvil'.e, John Wesley Woi'boys; Wellington, BJ. )i. Redstone; Westport and Charleston, J, J. Pendray, ■ The sittings of tho Assembly were, brought to ft close at 5 p.m, oiv"M°ndny l"et:-

TELEGRAMS.

[FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.]

Hamilton, this day.—The late heavy rains have done considerable damage to the crops throughout Waikato, hay crops, in some places, being badly affected. The weather, however, has again cleared up, and if it continues so for a few days, the farmers will bo able to reap a fair harvest. Had tho rain continued, it would have caused a widespread hardship in the district.

Contemptible Contempt of Court.

Tauranoa, this day.—At tho Paeroa East investigation today, Mr Fenton drew the attention of tho Chief Judge to a para graph in the " Post" containing gross mis statements, and which, ho stated, amounted to contempt of Court. His Honor read the objectionable paragraph, and stated that tho contents wore totally false, and with out a basis of truth even, but that the dig nity of no Court could suffer by such writings.

(PER PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Napier, this day.—A house at Poran gahau occupied as a dwelling and tailor's shop was totally destroyed by firo last night. Nothing was saved. The house was insured in tie Union Otlico for £200, and the stock and furniture for i'3oo in the South British.

It has transpired that the moneys voted by the Borough Council for the Hospital were not for maintenance but for the build ing fund; the Colonial Under-Secretary was strictly accurate in his letter in stating that the Council has ceased to support the Hospital. Mr Adam, on a bicycle from Wellington, left this morning for the Hot Lakes.

Fatal Bathing Accident.

WOODVILLE, this day.—A boy named Meeoham, aged ten years, and son of a settler here, was drowned in a stream yes terday while bathing, having gone out of his depth.

Hawera, this day.—Judgment in tho great seed case, Buchanan v. Laird, was delivered to-day. This was a re hearing, and the magistrate adhered to the former judgment in favour of plaintiff, who recovers £100 from defendant, for having suppiied him with wrongly described seed. Notice of appeal was given.

Copper Mining in Nelson.

Nelson, this day.—Tho first general meeting of the Champion Copper Company was held last night. The prospectus provided for 60,000 shares, and 50,462 were taken up by 254 persons. It was decided to hold tho remaining shares in trust for the Company. At tho meeting two pieces of smelted copper from the mine were ex hibited. 1,314 pounds of native copper were taken from tho lode and smelted in the local foundry, and after boing molted twice, the copper from tho mould weighed 12Jlbs. It is proposed to send a specimen to Christ church Exhibition.

Fall from a Third-story Window.

Wellington, this day.—A young man named Kimpernan, a recent arrival by the Lady Jocclyn, last night, while in a state of intoxication, fell through a bedroom window in the third story of the Star Hotel on to the footpath below, a distance of fully 40 reet. He broke his left thigh, injured his left ankle, and received some severe cuts on tho head. His injuries are not likely to prove fatal.

Wellington, this day.—A man named Sullivan, formerly a boarding-housekeeper in Wellington, has beon arrested at Foxton on the charge of forging an order on a man named Connor.

The crops in tho Wairarapa district are suffering from the severe weather.

iNVECARorLL, this day.—lt is reported that rust has made its appearance in EOms parts of tho district, and tho turnip fly is also said to have caused damage, in some cases necessitating re-sowing.

THE STRIKE AT TE AROHA.

[BY TELEORAI'II.—OWN CORRESPONDENT],

Te Aroiia. this day.

It is estimated thatthero are not more than 30 mon now unemployed, and a number of those will find employment in connection with tho new battery works. It is stated that several men are working in the New Find for eight shillings, and I havo heaid threats that steps will bo taken by the "strikers" to prevent them working. Eight or nine contracts have been let in various mines recently, and all the contractors are paying wages men nine shillings a day.

HURRICANE AT RAROTONGA.

FURTHER PARTICULARS,

The loss of three fine Auckland vessels, along with the lives of several persons well known here, as related in our last issue, has caused a feeling of profound regret through out the city, and will bo long remembered as one of tho saddest casualties that ever happened in connection with the shipping of our port. We aro now in possession of fuller particulars as follows :—On the morn ing of December 17th, the schooners Agnes Bell, Makea Ariki, and Atlantic were lying at anchor in Rarotonga harbour, when.thore being evory indication of an approaching storm, every precaution was taken to make each of tho vessels as secure as possible. The weather, which had been moderately fine during tho day, changed during the evening, and about 10 p.m. a regular gale was blowing. An hour later a terrific hurricane came on, and beforo midnight all of tho vessels were adrift. The schooner Atlantic, in command of Captain Schultz, was beachod, and tho master and crew succeeded in reaching shore, although with great difficulty. The Agnes 801 l and Makea Ariki wore driven against the reef, and the seas washed clean over their decks. The vessels soon began to break up, and there was great danger of those on board being lost. Boats were put off from the shore, but owing to the terrible surf washing in, they were un ablo to reach tho unfortunate vessels. At one o'clock on tho morning of December 18, the Makea Ariki suddenly disappeared. Captain Ayres (master of the vessel), John Montgomery (mate), Patrick Duncan (cook and steward), and Mr Stanley Heather, brother of Mr A. Heather, of Auckland, succeeded in getting on board of the Agnes Bell, which still held together. An hour later the Agnes Bell was dismasted, and thoso on board gave evidence of their perilous position by con stantly signalling for assistance, which unfortunately could not be rendered. Sud denly, about 2.30 a.m., the schponer broke in two amidships, and soon became a com plete wreck. It was concluded that all on board had porishpd, but in a few momonts a man was obsorved coming ashore on a piece of tho wreck. He was rescued, and proved to be one of two natives belonging to the vessel. He stated that ho was the only survivor, all tho others having suc cumbed to tho terrible surf. The list of missing was then gono over, and found to bo as follows;— William Munn, master of the schooner Agnes Boll; John Anderson, mate of the Agnos Bell ; Thomas Ayres, master of the schooner Makea Ariki; John Montgomery, mate of the same vessel; Patrick Duncan, cook and steward of the same; Mr Stanley Heather, of Auckland, and a Kanaka. The hurricane continued unabated until tho morning of tho 19th, when fine weather set in. The wreckage from the schooner Agnes Bell and Makea Ariki, and thpir cargoes, were found strewed along tho shore, while the Atlantic was observed high and dry on the beach, with tho tide washing clean through her. That day tho wrecks were sold by auction. Tho remains of tho Makea Ariki and Agnes Bell realised Go dollars, while the Atlantic brought 25 dollars. On Thursday morning the body of Captain Munn was washed ashore, and was buried in tho ohui-chyard, the funeral being at tended by a large number of European residents. Thethree schooners, which were owned by Messrs Donald and Edinborough, of Auckland, were insured as follows :— Agnes Bell, in the New Zealand, for £2,300, of which amount i3OO was rodnsuved in the Mutual, 1 500 in tho South British, and £.00 in tho Union. The cargo was also in sured for l'3,_ooin the United. Tho Makea Ariki was insured in the Now Zealand for £1,000. her outward-cargo for £500, and an open policy of _l,2ooonhcrreturn cargo also, was held by the same offico. The Atlantic was also insured in tho New Zealand Office for i'SOQ, of which amount £200 wa3: re insured in the South' British, Her chrgo was insured for £900 in the Now Zealand, which has ale-insurance with the Colonial for one-third of the amount. This makes a total insurance on vessels and cargo of £10,200,

AUCKLAND ANNUAL REGATTA.

Tun probable entries for tho Champion Trading Race appear to be decreasing daily. Yesterday we stated that neither tho Torea nor Annie Wilson would be here to take part, and now the Agnes Bell and Atlantic, which have been wrecked at Rarotonga, will have to be struck off the list.

The Regatta Committee meet this evening to open tenders for catering on board the flagship. It would bo well were they at the same time to re-consider the decision to make the schooner race a handicap event. The absurdity of the proposal has raised a storm of public indignation, for, as it has beon truly represented to us, it would bo anything but creditable to the port were some antiquated craft (the old Mariner for instarico) to be thus enabled to leave Auckland carrying the champion flag.

The handicappers are Messrs D. Gouk, 11. Parker, T>. H. McKenzie, E. VVaymonth and T. Henderson, junr. These gentlemen visited the vessels in port which are ex pected to enter for tho schooner raco this morning, for the purpose of arranging a handicap. We wonder what rules they went by. Nono were laid down by the Committeo, and as several of the ves sels never raced before they could not form conclusions by previous performances.

The Fanny Thornton has beon schooner rigged, and otherwise put in excellent trim for the champion race. She has many backors, and should have a fair chance of winning.

There will bo in all 17 races at the regatta, and the total value in money and trophies to be awarded to the successful competitors amounts to £749. The schooner race alone requires £250, tho first prize being £150 and trophies.

The Union Company have volunteered to placo the fine steamer Wairarapa at the disposal of the Committeo for flagship, but tho N.Z. Shipping Company's offer of the Turakina having previously been accepted, the Committee will not be able to avail themselves of tho other kind offer.

MINING NEWS.

(BY TELEGRAPH. —OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

THAMES,

Thames, this day. New Prince Imperial.—Both winzes now in progress are looking remarkably promis ing. That on No. 2 reef below No. 5 level produced about 31bs picked stone yester day afternoon, and gold is more regularly diffused through the quartz than hitherto. About the same quantity of picked stono was obtained in the winze on the Mariner's reef, atthe junction of the smallhanging-wall leader. Colours of gold were also found in tho footwall stringer of this lode, in rise above No. 3 level.

London.—The manager is in momentary expectation of breaking through to the winze in the cross-cut at No. 4 level. A body of quartz appeared in the face yester day.

SUPREME COURT.-This Day.

In Banco.

(Before His Honor Mr Justice Gillies.)

Marshall and Others v. Bayley and Others.—Mr Theo. Cooper for plaintiffs, and Mr E. Hesketh for defendants.—His Honor delivered the following judgment :— " Upon a very careful consideration of this case I can come to no other conclusion than that the defendants, by leaving the trußt moneys in Mr Halse's hands without their interference as to how it was invested, com mitted a breach of trust, for the conse quences of which they are responsible Lo win on Trusts, 4 cd., pp. 192,246, and 590 and casi s there cited. Griffiths and Porter, 25; Bcov, 236, and Bostock v. Floyer, L.R., 1 Exq., 26, are clear authorities for tius position, that trustees leaving trust funds in tho hands of their solicitor are responsible for any loss that may thereby accrue, even though in employing tho solicitor they exercised ordinary care and discretion. Nor is this doctrine at all modified by what was said by the Master of the Rolls in Speight v. Gaunt (51 L.J., eh. 715), and by Vice-Chancellor Bacon in Godfrey v. Faulkner (L.R., 23 eh, Div. 483), that it is the duty of a trustee to deal with trust funds just as a prudent man wculd deal with his own pro perty, for it is settled law that trustees leaving trust funds in their solicitors' hands aro not acting as prudent men. As regards the infant plaintiffs, therefore, tho defendants must replace the moneys lost by their breach of duty. As regards-the plaintiff, Jane Marshall, however, the jury have found that this breach of trust was committed with her full consent and acquiescence. In these circumstances the trustees cannot be held liable (Lewin, p. 595, and cases there cited) to her. The decree will, therefore, be that it be referred to the Registrar to ascertain what portion of the principal of the trust fund has been to)t by the breach of trust of the defendants, that within three months after such ascertain ment and notification to the defendants they do invest on securities authorised by the deed of settlement in their own names on joint account to the satisfaction of the Registrar, a sum ecmal to the amount so lost^ with power with the approval of the Registrar from time to time to vary such securities, to be held by them, subject to the trusts of the deed of settlement of 25th May, 1871, except that they shall be entitled during the lifetime of the said Jnno Marshall to receive and take the interest or annual income arising from the said securities for their own proper uso and benefit, instead of paying the same to the said Jane Marshall, and that the defendant do pay the costs of this action, to be taxed as if there had beon but one plaintiff." Rk Thomas Glover (a debtor). — Peti tion for adjudication.—Mr Brassey ap peared in support of the application, arid Mr Campbell t o oppose it. The latter gen tleman contended that sufficient affidavits had not been filed to sustain the applica tion, those filed having reference only to the existence of the debts, but not to the#cts of bankruptcy, which should have been stated specifically. His Honor thought the affidavits sufficient. Mr Campbell then pointed out that under section 41 of the Act certain things wore stated as consti tuting acts of bankruptcy, and in this case only two of those acts were assigned. The first was that possession had been taken under a warrant, hut as the warrant was re turned marked nulla bona, there could havo been no possession, seeing that there were no goods to take. The' peti | tiomng creditors claimed as the second act of bankruptcy an alleged fraudulent deed of gift, but he was prepared to show that it was not fraudulent.—William Coppell, assistant bailiff, gave evidence as to taking possession under a bill of sale of a horse alleged to be debtor's property, and as to withdrawing from possession on Its being represented that the animal be longed to another party.—Thomas Glover, the debtor, deposed that ho followed no occupation, and that his wife, Mrs Alice Glover, kept a school, but had a protection order from him for habitually failing to support her. (Order, dated 29th Nov. 1882, read). A warrant was issued to seize a horse belonging to his wife for a debt that he owed to one Harkiss. Its seizure was attempted, but not carried out. He had sworn in an action in the R.M. Court, brought by Messrs Mowbray against Mr Buckland, that he had bought tho horse from Mr Chadwick for L3O, but he had also stated that it was for his wife and it was paid for with her money. He had had n i property since 1879, when he executed a deed transforing any property he might have—but ho had none—and renouncing any right of ownership to ony pro- P0 r ty contaired in his wife's school. —Learned counsel having addressed th; Court, His Honor said that it was qnto clear that the acts of bank ruptcy relied upon hero by tho petitioning creditors did not como within the 41st section of tho Act. The intention of this n w act was somewhat diffeient from tho oil one, for it sought to distribute fairly among the creditors the debtor's estate, and Where there was no estate the debtor had nb ness to get the benefit of the Act. Hi. Honor further said in reply to Mr CampJ bell s apphcatron for costs, that He would not give costs inasmuch as it was sufficiently apparent from the debtor's own conduct, that he had caused tho other side to brieve that he had property.—The petition Was therefore dismissed without costs. Bb Margaret Doran, an arranging debtor.—Motion for 'an order declaring completely executed the' 'deed' of ar rangement entered- into with the .redi tors.-^Tho debtor is a draper' tarrying on business'at Cambridge.—'Mr"Theo. Cooper appeared in support of tho motion, and as there was no opposition it wjw granted.

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 23, 1884



Special Advertisements. T U S T OPENED, A VERY CHOICE ASSORTMEN. BROKEN CHECK GINGHAMS, BROKEN CHECK GINGHAMS, New and Handsome Designs. Also, NEW GOODS, in MILLINERY SUNSHADES LACES MANTLES GLOVES HOSIERY COSTUMES HANDKERCHIEFS • UNDERCLOTHING BABY LINEN &c, &0., &C. Fitb Per Cent. Discount for Cash. Milne & Choyce, Sale op bankrupt stock. "William It. JBridgman HAS PURCHASED A BANKRUPT STOCK OP DRAPERY, FANCY GOODS, AND TOYS, ATA GREAT REDUCTION OFF COST, AND WILL OFFER THE WHOLE TO THE PUBLIC AT HALF USUAL PRICE, •JUNCTION CHEAP DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, 288, UPPER QUEEN STREET. The riversdale manufacturj ING COMPANY (LIMITED), TANNERS. CURRIERS, GRINDERY AND LEATHER MERCHANTS, Have removed to moro convenient Premises— 41, GREY-STREET (Next aoor to Mr. Fowler. Butcher). Splendid Assortment always on hand (at lowest trade prices) ot Colonial, English and Foreign Leathers, Grindery, Shoe Mercery, English and ' Colonial Saddlers Leathers. T_HN_R*; W-RBHOUBB! AVONDALB. «, GREY-STREET. Telephone: No. 95 111 iiflMjUa. w g||| P^SO*1-



Special Advertisements. TMTONSTER /CLEARING OALE OF CLOTHING AND DRAPERY! CLOTHING AND DRAPERY! CLOTHING AND DRAPERY! CLOTHING AND DRAPERY! £20,000 worth £20,000 OS DRAPERY AND CLOTHING TO BE DRAPERY AND CLOTHING TO BE SLAUGHTERED ! ! ! SLAUGHTERED!! ! O /COOMBES & rio., BEING ABOUT TO CLOSE THEIR CLOTHING ESTABLISHMENT NEXT THE AUCKLAND HOTEL, AND IN ORDER TO REDUCE THEIR STOCK AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE PRE VIOUS TO STOCK-TAKING, WILL HOLD A MONSTER CLEARING SALE A MONSTER CLEARING SALE OF THE WHOLE OF THEIR LARGE AND WELL-ASSORTED STOCK OF DRAPERY AND CLOTHING DRAPERY AND CLOTHING AT both qdops, oth dhops. Commencing TjIRIDAY, -i "| TH TNSTANT. S. COOMBES & Co. HAVE PURCHASED TWO WELL-KNOWN STOCKS FOR LESS THAN 10s IN THE £, WHICH WILL BE INCLUDED IN THEIR MONSTER /CLEARING CJALE. onster Clearing ioale. remember i the sale commences on FRIDAY, 11th INSTANT, ON THE PREMISES LATELY OCCUPIED By J. COSGRAVE & CO., AND OUR CLOTHING ESTABLISHMENT, NEXT THE AUCKLAND HOTBL, WHERE EVERYTHING WILL BE SLAUGHTERED. ... OUR ESTABLISHMENT WILL BE CLOSED On THURSDAY, FOR THE PURPOSE OF MARKING DOWN THE STOCK. SnooMBES & rm, • Coombes & *_/©., canada buildings, queen-street.



urnkUK shall i jfunman my HOUSE FROM? THE CHEAPEST ALL ROUND HOUSE TO FURNISH FROM IS THE CITY HALL ARCADE GARLICK & CRANWELL ! 1 IRON BEDSTEADS, go to GARLI-K & CRANWELL. BEDDING go to GARLICK & CRANWELL. BED-ROOM FURNITURE, go to GARLICK & CRANWELL. CARPETS, go to GARLICK & CRANWELL. OABLICK & CRANWELL, House Furnishers. GARLICK & CRANWELL, Upholsterers. GARLICK & CRANWELL, Manufacturers of all kinds of furnitures. Cheap Tapestry & Brcbshl Carpet.. Cheap Oilcloths & Linoleum. Cheap & Beautiful Cretonnes. .'heap Blankets 8c Cdrtainp. GARLICK & CRANWELL, HOUSE FURNISHERS City Hall Arcade. queen's trees, AUCKLAND TMPORTANT. AC_ N E D D E N • ONEDDEN (SUCCESSOR TO J. LECK) Has much pleasure in announcing that he has PURCHASED THE WHOLE OF MR J. LECK'S STOCK MR ~ LECK'S STOCK AND GOODWILL AJJP GOODWILL AT A GREAT REDUCTION, GREAT REDUCTION, AND WILL CONTINUE CONTINUE THE CLEARING-OUT jSALE THE CLEARING-OUT SALE FOR ONE MONTH LONGER. ONE MONTH LONGER IN CONSEQUENCE OF THE OVER-STOCKED STATE OF THE DRAPERY H4IH&F, HE HAS BEEN ENABLED T|» BUY A LARGE ASSORTMENT Of' GOODS, WHICH WILL BE OFFERED AT SALE PRICES. i



I The committee appointed for carrying ! out tho eighth anniversary of tho Star pf Freedom Lodge have made final arrangements for their annual.ball inltlio Loi-no-street Hall on Monday, the 28th January. Full particulars advortised in Saturday's Star. PnpT's Auckland Almanac and Pro vincial HANpnouii, for 1881,' is now on sale at all b.oQlcspllers. The opinion of Auckland ladies—Deal with Vounij Chambers for Spwipg Mp.chinea.- Advt.J As a New Yoar present, nothing ls so suitable as the Domestic Sewing Machine of Blifltaspoar & Co., Queen-street, opposite tho ilark.et.-4£PVT. HABITOA- CoN-STTA-riON, tho cause of so much discomfort and so many troublesome ail ments, pirn be' rolioved by nothing safer and more cffectunl tlfah Oaiitor Oil JA repeated small doses, its nauseous flavour being tho only draw» bacH- Allen and" It anbury's new process of manufacture uompletolyobviato's this, and there; la now no moro palatable aperient than tlicA.; and H. " Tastoloss" Castor Oil shaken up in; warm milk. AtOd. ls, IsOd, and 3s. Sola by Graves Aickin, The Pharmacy ; and J. A. Pond, Homco. Chemist, Queen-street. Ask for the " A, and H." brand.-fAdvt.J



Temperance Demonstration.—On Tues day next, in the Auckland Domain, the United Temperance Societies will hold a gala; when every- organisation.will be represented, mid all abstainers not connocted with nctlvo institutions aro invited to join. Full programme in Satur day's issue.—[Advt.J