SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

H.GH WATER&^, to_l_ng,a63 SDNSHST.-Thla Evening,,4.4o. ■ H< '\ llPPK.—ttMnorrow Morning. 737 ro v. ~(_ Ifr-New Mopn, 23rd, «._ p.m.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY.

Seagull, brigantine, Bern, from Dunedin

DEPARTURES.

XAST EVENING. Walhora. s.s.. Bdle. for Sydney . . ;> Pen_m__D.a&.. Cromarty, for Lj-ttelton Southern Cross, s.s.. Hutchinson. forGisborno Endeavour, schooner, Ruxton, for Thames Futuna, schooner. Dormant, for Samoa. Rewena, s.s„ Scott, for Great Barrier

','. .TO-DAIJ. Deva, barque, Plerrepoint, foi Timaru

EXPORTS.

Per Waffior* for Sydney-378 sacks oysters' IS! doors, 10 bundles mantlepieces, 485 sacks bran, 2S bale* flax, 23 baleß fungus. 33 cases cheese 5S sacks cocoanute, 74 Kegs beef, 8 casks oil.

Inwards CoASTWib-!.—Moehau, from Omaha, With 600 posts, 259 rails, 1,000 palings, 12 tons firewood.

Octwahds Coastwise,—Mariner, for Rus sell ; Moebau, for Omaha. The schooner .Agnes Donald has entered ou at the Customs for Line Island. '

The barque Peva sailed this morning for Timaru, where she 1b to load for London. The departure of the s.s. Manapouri has boon postponed till noon to-morrow. Tho as. Doric will leave for Wellington and Southern ports about 10 a to. to-morrow.

The brigantine Oamaru (Richards) will sal: for Rarotonga about Saturday next. She en tered outwards at the Customs to-day. .

The as. Wellington was detained at Tauranga till 7 a.m. today, and may be expected here early this evening.

The s.s. British King, homeward bound, arrived at Rio Janeiro on Tuesday. Her refrigerator was working well, and the meat in prime condition. • -. t

-"■ Tiie Schooner Fanny Thornton cleared at the Customs to-day for Hokianga with 70 bags flour, 16 kegs ale, 71 pkgs groceries, 3 casks stout, 22 phgs ironmongery, 13 cases wines and spirits, 8 .pkgs machinery. '".,■-._■ : Thes.B. Walhoraleftfor Sydney via Rusm-11' last evening with the following passengers— Mrs Caldwoll.Stretton. A. G. Davles. F. Layers. Pedder, Stanton, Thompson, Se_combe., Nagle, r Reggal. Strickland, Cattenaeh. Warren, C. Shaw, H. G. Watts, J. Tyrell, A. Somerville, Reynolds, Anderson, Stouter, S. Bates, Mr and SITs Jones, Mr and MrsTaine, Miss Roche, Miss Reynolds, Mrs Black, Mr and Mrs Sutherland, and 41 steerage.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS; Stormbird. s.s., Dollo, from New Plymouth

: The s.s. Stormbird arrived from New Ply mouth at 12 o'clock to day, with 4. pkgs. She leaves for Taraaaki, Wanganul, and Wellington at 3 o'clock to-morrow. •

The s.el Lalla Rookh had nor arrived up to O'clock. . ' •_"•-:_

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Russell, Oils day.—Arrived: Walhora, from Auckland, 9 a.m. , Tke Steamer Bombay. "i * Wbllinoton, this day.-^Shaw. Savill, and Albion Company's chartered Steamer Bombay is signalled She Is 51 days out from Plymouth '. and $3 from London. '■> ••!.• PonT ' CnALMEBs, yesterday. '—ESailed: Rotomahana, for the North. Passengers for Auckland,:—Mrs Lowe and two children, Messrs Singleton and Butler. Melboubne, June 18.—Sailed, this morning: To Anau, for Bluff.

R.M. COURT.-This Day.

(Before H. G. Scth Smith, Esq., R.M.) UNDEFENDED OASES.

Judgment went by default for the plaintiffs in the following cases:—MTMarohie v. J. V. Bin don, £7 9s Sd; A.■ O. • Caner -v, C. Bvlnson, £51253 d; same v. George Evans, £2 6s sd; J. Lapham v. E. McGlashan, *21; Wm. Stanford v. J. V. B_ndott,-_7s 6d ; Alex. Pollock v. John MoLeodr Hi: 'Lewis Moses v, A. Rolton, £810s; J. G. G. Taylor v. Wood and Saunders, £5 Is 3d; Kden Terrace Road Board v. J. L. Burke, lis 7d; same v. Samuel .Brown, 15s; J. H. Drabble v. A. S. Ford* £93s_d; F. J. Somer field and another v. Horace Smith, £3 Oa 6d. ADJOURNED. .

Union 8. and D. Co. v. G. S. > Maclaurin, '6 5s sd; C. Rublok v. R. Hind, 30s; R. M. Heighten. v. D. C. McDonald, £5; R, Arthur v. Jas. Lind say. £9 19s lOd; Geo. Sibbir. v. Isaac WHsnn. £8 Osld; Thos. Searoll v. S. Jagger, £25; T. W; Marsh v. Albert Walker, -129 0s 84; Hobday and Co. v. Francis Pavltt, fil3 03 9d; W. 8. Whitely v. Hoinrich Briedeckcr, £_ 14s 7d ; G. S. JaWns v.W.Morley,_--90a-d; -.. JUDGMENT SOMMONB OASES.

B, Ramsbottom v. J. MeNaughton.—Claim, £7 12nfid.—No appearance of defendant.—Pay ment ordered by instalments of 5s per week; In defaulMO days'impri-onment. A. O. Carter v. W. May.-_aim. _SU lis fd. Defendant did not appear. Ordered to pa/ by weekly instalments of 10s,;'. in default, 21 days' imprisonment. 3.3. Watson v. J. King.—Claim, £16 Is lld. Order made for payment at rate of £2 per month; in default, 21 dors' imprisonment J H. Dalion v. H. Jenkins.-Claim, £2 3s 6d. Defendant did not appear. Payment of 5a per w.iek ordered; in dnfault, 5 days' imprisonment. A Plaintiff's Neoleoi.—John Leonard v. JohnDonovan.-Clalin, £1 17b Bd.-The plaintiff did not.appoflr, and ihe case was thcr"fore Btruok out— -T-The-i, I'obper, on behalf i-f defendent, applied for cents; 10s 6d costs was ft'lowed. - _'■■■< '". - .-;'" - :

DEPENDED OAHE. Auckland \grloulturdl and Mercantile Co. v 3. P. Oake_.—Ulaiui, £21. Mr Thome for plain tiff; Mr Brassoy for defendant The claim was brought for rent of a cottage in Parnell, and the defendant resisted It by disputing the plaintiff's title.' - •' _ . T .(Left Sitting). » ;

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails will Close as under i-

This Da*. For Tauranga, Ohlnemutu, and Opotiki, per Wellington, at 5 p.m. For*. Mangawal and Kalwaka, per Ruby, at 5 I§r Whitiangl ana Upper Mill,* per Neptune. at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Anne Mllbank. at 5.30 p.m.

FridAT. 20th inst. For Wellington and Southern Ports, per Dorlo, at 9 a,m. For V*-jaitara. etc., per Argyle at 11 a.m. Per Manapouri. as follows— ■ For India, China. Japan, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Europe at 10 a.m. For Gißborne. Napier, Southern Ports. Aus tralian Colonic*, and United Kingdom (via Sue?, and Brinidis. (or letters, &c. specially so prepaid and addressed), at U a.m. For money order-, registered letters and nowspapers, aflO a.m. Late letters till 11.20 For Taranaki, Wanganul, and South, per S"t~mbi-d. at 1 p.m. For Cowes and Coromandel. per Coromandolat

_._on.m. For Grejmouth, per Omapere. at 3 p.m. For WhlHangi and Upper Mill, per Rowena,

For Wangarel Heads, Parua, • Walpu,Wan garei, Kamo, Tangihua and Mangapai, per Macgregor, at 5 p.m. For Wate-ford, Tauranga, Thames, per Enter prise, at 5.30 p.m. Saturday, 21st inst For Suwarrow, per Ryno, at 9 a.m. For Wan.era, Mahurangi, Matakana, Manga wai. etc, per Rose Casey, at 0 a.ni. For Barotonga, per Oamaru, at 1 p.m. Tuesday, 21th inst Per City of Sydney, as follows— For Sanowlcn ißlands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia. Cento* and South America, and British and Foreign "West Indleß, at 1 p.r_ , ■ , lYir United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. . • " ' For money orders, registered lotters and ewspapers, at 11.8} a.m. Late lettcm. bearing an extra fee of six pence In addition to 0„ postage, wU] be received by the Mall Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. "This mall will be due in London on Sat urday, August 2nd, 8»». ffl. B. BISP, Chief Postmaster Chief PostrOfflce. Auckland.

meetings, Entertainments. Etc.

June 19, 1881. * Abbott's Opera House—"She Lancashire Laßs," 8 p.m. Theatre Royal—Professor Anderson, 8 p.m. St Sepulchre's School-room-Conoert In aid of Parish Glee Club, 8 p.m. Eden Hall —Meeting of Members of Eden Cricket Club, 7.30 p.m. . : Y.M.C.A.__evotl_nal,7.-op.m,

Notices to Correspondents.

MICHAEL Lennan.—Your letter contains a seri ous charge against a Post-office official, and such belnu the case, should be addressed to the authorities of the Department, and not to a newspaper. Shywck.—The word trie, occurring in a tele gram or other matter. Is meant to draw atten tion to some apparent error or misstatement, probably the result of telegraphic mutilation, but which there is no means of correcting. "Telephone."—Though Mr Richard Laishley, junr., Is the bearer of a commission ftom the New Zealand Government to report on the educati _al sy-tems of Europe, we bellove his expen.es are not paid by the Education De partment, but by himself. A question was to be put in Parliament on the subject, but the political crisis has quite obscured all minor matters. , N.W.H.—The patent album can only be pro cured from the travelling ugents or canvassers who call upon householders, * . . ■

Births.

PARKER.—On June 10, at Napier-street, the

wife .lIV.J, Parker pf a daughter. ... FROUDE.—On June 17, at her residence, Wll ■low-street, the wife of R. Froudo, plumber, ol I a daughter. ...

Deaths.

THOMAS.— On Juno 19th, at her residence. Mount Eden Road, Sarah Amie, the bolovod wile of Frederick Campbell Thomas; aged 27 years. The funeral will leave her late residence on Sunday, June 22, at 2.15 p.m. Friends please accept this invitation.

WHITE.—On Juno 18, at hor parents' re-idenco, Grafton Road, Louisa Estelfe, infant daughter : of W. B. and A. J. White; aged 8 months. .- Private interment to-morsow (Friday), at 11 a.m.

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

THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 1884.

For the cause that locks asslstanoe, For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future in the distance. And the good that we oan do. '

;Despitk the efforts being made by the Opposition to avert the inevitable, we be lieve a dissolution of Parliament will take place very shortly, and we would again seek to impress upon electors the necessity of being prepared for it. For not only are the constituencies in many cases unprepared for an eleotion, but the rolls are in a very unsatisfactory. state—the sins, both of omission and of commission, being very numerous. Political.agents apd registration officers between them piay'l'e trusted to See <that the rolls ire properly purged, but it rests with the individual electors to take steps for having their oloimsmade.and recognised. .New arrivals- who have'been-in the colony for twelve months aro entitled to vote in ■any district wherein'they have resided for six months, and we;'-would warn such against trusting to being ''put on the roll"; as electors are at Home; for a man may live in New Zealand all .his days and never

be enfranchised unless lie personally seeks ' it. Those who havo changed their places of residence move than six months ago should see that they are qualified for the district in which they now reside, or other wise they will rind themselves disqualified. Thenecessity for registration is nowpressing, as no fresh claims can be received after the writs are issued for the elections. As the writs may be issued by next week, there remains but a short time for claimants being placed on the rolls. We would remind city and suburban electors that Mr S. Y. Collins has heen appointed Registration Officer for Auckland in room of Mr Thomas Cotter, and forms of claim to be enrolled can bo obtained from him or at the Star Office. The new Registration Officer is to be found at the office of the Kamo Coal Company, Queen-street, and all claims should be lelt with him without delay.

As we anticipated, Mr J. H. Upton has been nominated for the vacancy in the representation of Ponsonhj- at the City Council, his nominators being Messrs F. Quick an* A. Boardman. Mr Upton i. a good debater, and an energetic and clear headed man of business. His candidature is sure to be popular, and his unopposed re turn is practically certain.

A new arrival, who adds another to the already lengthy list oi Browns, became exceedingly jolly last evening, and being unable to take care of.himself, a friend undertook that difficult task. Brown wanted to get on board of the Doric, and was going down the wharf on his friend's arm, when suddenly he wrenched himself free and reeled over the side of the wharf. Being able to swim, Brown kept afloat until he was reached by a boat from the Agnes Donald, by which he was conveyed ashore.

The Dunedin footballers have resolved to present medals to the Otago members of tho intercolonial team, now on their way back from Sydney. It is also proposed to give a suitable present to Mr Sleign for his able management of the team.

During the gale on Tuesday morning, a yacht belonging to Mr Robert Brookes brobe from her moorings at Waiwera and drifted on to the rocks near tjie baths, bumping heavily. Her loss was considered certain, but fortunately as the tido rose she was hauled on to the sandy beach, having suffered comparatively little damage.

A man named Henry Devoy, bugler to Salvation Army, was arrested this morning by Detective Hughes on a chargo of feloniously forging, with intent to defraud, a bill of exchange for £20. Devoy will be charged with committing the offense at the Police Court to-morrow morning.

The Takapuna Licensing Bench has. re newed the wholesale spirit license to Isaac Peel and Co., of Davenport, for nine months, on the understanding that it shall cease at the expiration of that time.

The inquest on tr.o body of tho woman Ellon Curtis, who was found dyiug in a vacant section of land off Lome-street, was proceeding at the Hospital this afternoon.

In about a couple of months from now, New Zealauders will have tho excitement of a sculling match between the champion of this colony and the champion cf the world. The offer made by a Wellington resident to match Hoarn, the New Zealand champion sculler, against Hanlan has been accepted by the latter. The match will be rowed in Wellington harbour, over a3J mile course, and the stakes will be £200 aside, Hanlan receiving £50 as expenses for coming here, and two-thirds of whatever is taken in gate money. A meeting of Hearn's supporters will be held shortly at Wellington to in augurate a subscription list ana make the necessary arrangements for the match.

Entries were to have been received last night for the sports'ot Ncrth Shore op the 28th, but none were received. This result caused surprise to some, the handicap being the largest offered here for some time. The absence of entries was not due to any want of interest or spirit of competition, but merely because the peds. Were not prepared to put up 25_ entrance money without being sure of bona fides in the affair. The sports may have beon thoroughly genuine, but the promoter should at least have taken tho Erecaution to deposit tho stakes in the ands of some local individual interested in sport, who might have been considered a responsible person. If this had been done there would have been no lack of entries.

Four of the seamen who have been so ill on board the barque Androkles, now lying in the Huia Bay, Manukau, were brought up to Onehunga in tho steamer Oregon, and convoyed in an express to the Hospital yes terday. The body of a fifth man, who had died on bonrd, was also brought up for in terment.

There is reason to believe that a number of spurious -.'.. bank notes are in circulation, and tradesmen wi 1 do well, therefore, to exercise due care in cashing paper monoy. One of the- counterfeit " fivers " was to form the subject of an ait ion in the R.M. Court late this afternoon between F. Duder aud Wm. Adams, of totalimtor repute, the former claiming £4 as balance of change on a £5 note given to the latter, and Mr Adams contending that a £1 Union Bank note, artfully altered so as to resemble a £5 one, was what he had received from Mr Duder, and that therefore full value had been rendered for it. Tho figure I has been a tired into 5, and the, printed word " One " in the centre stamped over with the word " Five " in red letters. The imposture can bo recognised with a little care but people are very apt to be caught napping as some half-a-dozen cute men of business, and court officials had to acknowledge when for fun's sako the at tempt was made upon them to-day.

Dunning's Opera Company are reported to bo doing a splendid business in -Napier, their receipts for the first six nights exceed ing £050. SO great has been their success that they are remaining another week in order to produce "Boccaccio" and "The King's Dragoons." "Manola," tho Com pany's opening opera in Auckland, is by the prolific Lecocq, and is said to abound in the most beautiful and taking melodies, while Farnie's name is sufficient evidence that the dialogue will be bright and spark ling,. The Southern press are most eulogistic in their criticisms of tho Company, and pro nounce them to be superior to anything that 1 has visited Now Zealand, all the principals beingspoken of in the highest terms of praise. A feature in connection with the opera is the grand spectacular Ballet of Nations, which is to be interpreted by eight leading danseuses and a corps de ballet of 40. This ballet was performed at home for 12 months, and is reported to be a most gorgeous stage spectacle, the dresses being pronounced to be perfect marvels of the costumier's art. We are requested to direct special attention to the sate of family tickets. Twenty dress circle or orchestra stalls can be obtained for

£5, and 20 stalls for Jt"3. Full particulars will appear i. theadvertisement to-morrow.

There has been in circulation through the city for some time back, a petition worded as follows:—" To the! Honourable the Speaker and Members -of the House of Representatives. The petition of the un dersigned, inhabitants of the colony of New Zealand, humbly sheweth : That your petitioners view with concern the efforts that are being made to secure an alteration in the Education Act now in force in the colony. Your petitioners would humbly pray your Honourable House to maintain intact the present free, secular, and com pulsory clauses of the aforesaid Act, and not allow alterations therein to be made affecting its fundamental principles. And your petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray," Up till this afternoon,there had been a total of 7,790 signatures obtained to this document, and copies of the petition with signatures appended have been sent to Mr VV, Swanson, M.H.R., for Newton, for presentation to the House. In the present disjointed state of political affairs, Mr Swanson will use his discretion as to whether he shall present the petitions just now or wait till after the elections.

' The new premises for the Sailors' Rest and Homo at 25, Queen-street Wharf, are now ready to be formally opened, which will be done by His Lordship the Bishop of Auckland at the tea-meeting to be held there to-morrow (Friday) evening. These roon-S are a deoided improvement on the premises just vacated, and consist of read ing and smoking-room, where . the men Beem to feel perfectly at home; writing room, a quiet, snug little place where writing materials are supplied; office, a small room where the missionary—Mr H. E. Fell—can have private conversation with the men ; store-room, where seamen having no friends in the city can leave their chests, and already this room is being made use of ; and. lecture hall capable of seating about 200.' In this hall the tea-meeting will be held; and no doubt there will be a large gathering of seanjen of aU ranks. The musical part of the evening is in the hands of one of the leading amateurs in Auckland, and several gentleman who take a deep interest in the success of the ■work will also take part, the whole being under the presidency of the Bishop, who founded the. work, and has given much valuable tjme in helping to bring it to its present state of'eifieiency. The advertise ment in to-day's issue giyes further par ticulars.

The police want 'an .owner for an iron screw spanner, with initials "p,. W.,"also for a six-inch squa re stamped." R. Rogers.'

Frank M. Willmott's dramatic troupe, which have been playing in tho South with much success, are now fulfilling a ton nights engagement at Gisborne preparatory to coming on to Auckland. Their repeloira includes a number of plays which Mr Willmott has the sole right of playing in New Zealand. The latest addition to it is the great temperanoe drama, " The Woman of the People, with which Bandmannmade such a "hit"in Sydney. Then there are Paul Mevrit's new drama "The Golden Plough," Pinero's new comedy," Imprudence," G. R. Sims's fashionable London comedy, "Crutch and Toothpick," and several others. After his Auckland season, Mr Willmott intends to leave for 'Frisco and the other towns on j the Pacific slope.

The attendance at the Theatre Royal last night was very fair, considering the un comfortable state of the weather. Pro fessor Anderson kept his audience in a merry mood throughout the evening by his extraordinary illusions, which excited feel ings of amazement and delight. Miss Louise Maude Anderson was equally sur prising while in a trance condition, and her several feats of thought-reading were successful. Several new novelties will bo produced to-night. Professor Anderson's entertainment is very amusing.

At the regular quarterly meeting of Court Zealandia, A.0.F., held last evening, the following officers were duly installed for the ensuing six months:—C.R., Bro. Craddock; S.C.R., Bro. N. Brown; Treasurer, J. Andrews (reelected); Secre tary, J. Phillips (re-elected); S.W., Bro. Young; J.W., Bro. C. Johnston; 5.8., Bro. J. R. Cross; J. 8., Bro. A. Tylcoat; Surgeon, John 11. Hooper (re-elected).

A concert undor the auspices of tho Glee Club of St. Sepulchre's parish is announced for this (Thursday), evening to tako place in the school-room, Upper Symonds-street. The programme is advertised in to-night's issue. It includes sevoral chorus glees and madrigals (ono bearing tho date of 1570). a large number of popular songs, and two readings of a humorous kind. Tho (Hub was organised about a yoar ago for tho rehearsal of part music; and we do not doubt that the present occasion of its first public appearance will bo inarkod by a largo attendance of friends and supporters.

Aoorrcspondentcallinghimself "Charity" writes that illustrated nowspapers, old books, &c, will bo thankfully recoived by Mrs Brophy, for the Old People's Refuge.

Special evangelistic services aro held nightly in the Riding School, New North Road. The attendanco is good in wet or dry weather. The place is woll warmed with gas to counteract the supposed damp floor, and appears in all vory comfortable. There will be a special service on Sunday.

Byron's highly-interesting drama, " The Lancashire Lass," was repeated last night at tho Opera Houso, with capital offect It will be given this ovening for the last timo, and playgoers who wish to enjoy a-hearty laugh should not fail to sco Mr Grovillo's impersonation of " Tho party by the name of Johnson." " Hand ond Glove "is in pre paration for to-morrow evening, and should prove a trump card.

The members of the Waitomata Bicycle Club concluded thoir season last evening by what was called a "dinner and smoker" in Robson's dining rooms. An excollent repast was provided and par taken of, and at its conclusion various toasts wero proposed and responded to. Mr J. Chambors presided. The subsequent portion of the evening was devoted to smoking, card-playing, and general con viviality. Mr Henry Scon, 6on of the harbour master of Hokianga, and at present em- Blayed as engineer by Messrs Ingram and 0., was married yesterday to Miss Fair head. His fellow workmen took the oppor tunity thus offered of testifying oheir esteem for him, and presented him with a valuable gold watch, chain and perdant.

In the case of Charles Wm. Langstono, charged with converting certain moneys to his own use which had been entrusted to him as a bailee, vir.., I'd ss, the property of Wm. Taylor Davies, the ovidence was taken, and judgment reserved until Friday. Mr Napier appeared for the prosecution, and Mr Speed in defence.

The chargo against Ernest Rodon Hill of assaulting his brother-in-law, John Henry Wilson, was heard yesterday afternoon in the Police Court, boforo Judge Smith—Mr Brasscy for the informant, and Mr Thoo. Cooper for tho defence. The informant, a commission agent and Fiji trader, gave evidence at some length as to the natuMrof the ossault, which was of a very trilling character, arising 'out of a family quarrel about the division of a bequest. About eight witnesses were examined, and finally the case was dismissed. The continuous rainfall last evening proved a damper for the social gathering and sale of articles for the mission cause at the Beresfo-d-street Hall; notwithstanding a Btnnll number congregated and a few articles were disposed of. Nothingdaunted, however, the good folk aro going to try it again this evening, as per advertisement in our columnß, when some vory useful as woll as ornamental articles will be sold, par ticularly suoh as aro nooded in small families,

Tho inquest on the body of Bernard Jones, a member of the Naval Artillery, who shot himself on the previous evening, was held before Dr. Philson, coroner, and a jury, at the Fitzroy Hotel, Wakofield-street (Mrs Patterson's), Mr Richard Garrett foreman. The evidence disclosed no new facts beyond those published'in tho Stau. The verdict, after careful consideration, was : " Deceased died of a bullet wound, self-inflicted, while in a state of temporary insanity." In consequence of a resolution of the Auckland Land Board re leasing of gum fields having been laid before Parliament, a meeting of gum morchants was held yes terday, at the office of the Walker Gum Company Mr R. Walker occupied tho chair. After a lengthy discussion the fol lowing motion was agreed to:—"That a telegram be sent to Sir Georgo Grey, ask ing him to watch carefully the proposal to grant extended powers te the Waste Lands Board to lease large areas of land for gum digging purposes, and to oppose the grant ing of any other further leases for that purpose, as tho tendency would be to create a huge monopoly, to the injury of a largo number of men who depend upon this in dustry for a moans ol living, as well as to interfere injuriously with the production of the most important article of export in this province." Notwithstanding the unfavourable state of the weather last night, Mr White's lec ture in the Eden Hall on the question, " What is the Hell of the Bible ?" was fairly well attended. The lecturer began by quoting various texts in the Old and New Testaments iv which the word "hell" is used, and then proceeded to show what were the Greek and Hebrew equivalents for these words, with the object of proving that the generally-received notion of a place of endless term .nt is altogether foreign to the belief of the original writers, and was imported into the various passages at a later date. He claimed that it was ad mitted by all the greatest lexicographers that the words "Hades" and "Sheol" in dicated a place of silence, repose, and for getfulnoss, and the lecturer expressed his belief that in accordance with God's charac ter as revealed in His "Book, the orthodox hell was an impossibility. The monthly meeting of the University College Council was held late yesterday afternoon, there being present:—The Mayor (presiding), Bishop Cowie, Rev. D. Bruco, Rev. A. Reid, Dr. Campbell, Judge Smith, The Registrar (Dr. Kidd) announced the re-election of BishepCowie. .Messrs Heskoth and Richmond wrote declining the honour of being appointed the Council's legal advisers for the reason that Mr Heskoth was a member of that bedy. In reply to a question, the Registrar stated that there were 13 graduates on the books, viz., eight who had taken their degrees originally in the College, and live wne had been ad mitted are euntlem. Sanction was given Professor Aldis •to deliver a course of lectures on geometrical astronomy, and £5 was voted for diagrams ; the admission to tho lectures to be under tho same regu lations as to the lectures given by Professor Brcwn. The regulations and amended regulations for obtaining the Sinclair and Gillies scholarships were brought up by the Registrar, together with the suggestions of Professor Thomas. Theprinoipal regulations were as follow :—The scholarships to be of the value'of £100, tenable for three years; one to be offered beforo tho beginning of the year 1885;.' the remaining scholarship to bo offered bofore the session of 1880; each to be open to all persons born in the colony between 16 and 20 years of age who are not able to obtain a U-niyersity educa tion without pecuniary aid, Candidates to pass preliminary examination, the first to be held immediately before the session of 1885—that is in March. The examinations to be held, in Wellington and Dunedin simultaneously, under the supervision "of persons appointed. It was resolved to defer coming to a decision until a. fuller Board should be in attendance. It was also resolved'to invest tbe Gillies and Sinclair Scholarship Fund (£3,000) upon security offered by the Agricultural and Pastoral Company, for five years at 7J per pent. .'.' "A'" ''\ 'A''

Messrs O. Mays, R. H. Duder and Cant well, tho Commissioners appointed by the Waitemata County Council to settle the matters in dispute between the Northcote and Birkenhead sections of the old North Shore Highway Board, met yesterday for that purpose. Messrs J. R. Randerson, Thompson, and H. J. Hawkin3 appeared to represent the Birkenhead Road Board, and Messrs B. Hawkins and W. F. Hammond represented the Northcote or North Shore although they now reside at Birkenhead. Mr Randerson submitted a basis of agreement proposing :—(l) That the amount of real and personal property of the North Shore Road District shall become the property of the new Birkenhead Road District, the share of cash balance available being Ll7l 6s lid. (2) That a sum of L 94 10s 7d be handed over to the Birkenhead Road Board. (3) Amount of rates un collected in the Birkenhead portion of the district, to become payable to the Birken head Board, L 49 9s 2d. (4) Amount of liabilities and engagements to be deemed the liabilities of the new or Birkenhead Road Board, viz., L 55 7s Id. Messrs Hammond and Hawkins, two ot the five members of the North Shore Highway Board, spoke against the proposals and a letter of protest was read from a third member, viz., the Rev. A. McCal lum. In face of the fact that the old Board had expended two-thirds of its funds dur ing the past as well as in the preceding year upon the Birkenhead district, ho denounced tho propo.ed appropriation as " a scan dalous injustice, and " a spoliation of the other districts." He suggested either the convocation of the old Board or the settling of the matter by tho Council so as to avoid litigation. The question of details as to assets and liabilities was then gone into, and it appeared tltat for Birkenhead the assets were LI 11 17s 8d ; liabilities, L 125. For Northcote : Cash in hand, L 94 10s 7d ; rates (doubtful), L 49 9s 2d; together, LI 43 19s 9cl; liabilities, L557s Id ; leaving lon apparent credit balance of LBB 12s Sd. The linal decision was then adjourned till to-day.

A complete set of tracings and specifica tions, as well as workfng drawings and specifications of the Free Library and Art Gallery, which aro to be erected at the corner of Coburg aed Wellesley-streets, has beon roceived from Messrs Grainger and D'Ebro, architects, of Melbourne, and will be laid beforo the City Council to-night. The cost of the tracings, in addition t. commission* is LSO. In working out their schomo the architects have made a few .light alterations which they say will considerably Improve the building, and notably the appearance of thetowor, withoat enhancing mateiially the cost. In thoir opMon, tho tenders will be very close indeed, if not slightly below their original estimate, which is well within the pro scribed limit of £21,600. It is to be hoped that the Council will now press forwaid with alacrity to the erection of the build ings, as tho presont Free Library is now in conveniently crowded both by day and night.

Mr J. Ferry, a Victorian sculptor, who has just modelled a bust of the Marquis of Normanby far a Melbourne institution, writoa to tho City Council offering to pre pare one for tho Auckland Free Library. It would bo curious, to know what claim

the Marquis of Normanby has upon the gratitude of the people of New Zealand nnd equally singular to discover what good he over dia here. Several oxciting scenes occurred yester day at the inquest on tho unhappy young man Bernard Jones. At the close of her evidence Miss McKenna swooned, ond was assisted into an adjoining room, where she received tho kindly attention of Mrs Pat terson. Another sensation was that of a jury man, who had boon imbibing too deeply of tho potent stream of Lethe, and fell asleep in his chair. Presently he started up as if from a dream, and swung his arms about in a frantic manner. Dr. Stockwoll, thinking the man wns in a fit, ordered water on the forehead. This process sent the man almost mad ; and he commenced to uso fearful language, and was bundled out of the room. . The third incident related to the witness Moo, who was so drunk that he was unable to give evidence. Ho was kick ing up a noiso because tho landlady (who saw ho was " full up ") refused to supply him with shandy-gall. His evidence, how ever, was merely CDrroborativo of that of Henry Jones, and not necessary. Some considerable publio interest was rocently evinced in a billiard tournament which was taking place in a local hotel. Thore wero numerous entries, and the fees amounted to a considerable sum. The tournamont concluded in duo course, tho winner was declared, and it was then found that the promoter was missing. He had de parted suddenly, greatly enriched by the accumulate! entrance moneys, but strangely enough, forgot in the hurry of departure, to make provision for tlio payment of the prizes. These facts havo been widely dis cussed, and the consequence is that people aro suspicious of handicaps in the hands of irresponsible parties. It was portly owing to this case that the local peds were sus picious of the bona fides in the Queen's liirthday sports, and refrained from enter ing. Mr Vollbracht informs us that a numbor of additional cigar makers for tho New Zealand Tobacco Company arrived from Sydney with their families by the Mana pouri this week. He adds that there are now twenty at work, and operations at the factory are in full swing. " G.VV." writes that though new brooms aro supposed to sweep clean, the proverb does not apply to tho new Registration Officer for Auckland, Mr S. V. Collins.. He states that to-day at noon he called to lodge a claim and found tho officer absent, and ut the same time that he called two other voters were there anxious to make the required declaration. At the half-yearly ' meeting of the H.A.C.B. Society, Branch No. 81, held last evening, the election of officers resulted as follows :—President, W. G Connolly ; Yice-Presidont, D. Quinn ; Treasurer, Jos, Clarko ; Secretary, P. Kearney j Warden, Bro. Fogherty ; Guardian, Bro. H. Jones ; Sick Visitors, Bros. P. O'Hara, Jos. O'Hara and F. Corbett; Medical Attendants, Drs. Tennent and Evans; Auditors, Jas. O'Brien, C. Little, and P. Lynch. The in crease of funds for tho past quarter was £50, leaving the' principal funds of tho Branch in a very healthy condition, viz., Management Fund, £780; Sick Fund, £1,050; Benevolent, £20, In answer to a question, tho President stated that the late Bernard Jones was not a member of the Branch, but his brother, Henry, was. It was unanimously resolved to celebrate the anniversary by a social gathering on the 23rd July. Votes of thanks to the re tiring officers closed the meeting. Last Saturday evening a presentation was made to Bandmaster Hutchnison, late of the 12th and 03rd Regiments, by lhe passengers of the steamer Doric, for the admirable manner in which he had conducted many of the entertainments which were given on the passage out. We beliove that Bandmaster Hutchinson comes out to New Zealand bearing tho highest testimonials from.the old country. As musical instructor to the 12th he served through the Waikato cam paign in 1863, so that he is no stranger to these shores. .-':•,■:-. At the adjourned licensing meeting held in the Court-Hotlse, Onehunga, at 12 noon on Wednesday, for that district, the license of tho Commercial Hotel (P. J. Miller) was withheld on the ground that the house was not wanted in the district, Messrs Dun woodie (Chairman), Bycroft, Jackson, and Fleming being tho presiding Committee.

In passing a light sentence on the boys Driscoll and Calvert, Judge Smith justly censured the conduct of the pawnbroker who advanced small sums of money on so many tooUi under such vory suspicious cir cumstances. We learn that 2s and 3s were advanced on tools, almost new, worth L 5 and L 6.

Mr William Bellhouse writes drawing attention to the dangerous practice of throwing orange and banana peel on the city pavements. We agree with our cor respondent that it would be well to have such conduct made punishable by fine or imprisonment.

It will be soem by advertisement else where that a special service is to be held in All Saints' Church this evening to celebrate the extension of the transept and the com pletion of the organ chamber. Bishop Cowie will preach a sermon on the occasion, and a largo attendance of parishioners is looked for.

Mr W. H. Wobb's second social re union was - held . last night in the Lorne street Hall, and passed off very pleasantly to all concerned; It is a capital form of re creation, and should win considerable favour.

Mr William Stephenson, tho well-known merchant, has begun business as auctioneer at Onehunga, and his first salp takes place to-morrow, Friday.

The members of the Ponsonby Rowing Club are requested to attend a special meet ing on Saturday afternoon. Business of importance will be introduced for consider ation. '■" - . ■ ■

Mr Henry Exley will lecture to-morrow evening in the Newton Hall, on "Milton'and Cromwell, and 'their Times," in aid of the Trust Fund. ; ''■"• ' ■ '■'■• **-. '■-"'* A' l

CABLEGRAMS.

JBY OABIjE.-COPYRIGHT.I

[reuter's telegrams.]

The Suez Canal Agreement.

London, June 18.—It is currently re ported in diplomatic circles that the parley ing regarding the neutrality of the Sues Canal which for some time past has been progressing between the French and English Governments is virtually concluded, and that a satisfactory agreement has boen arrived at.

The Plague at Bagdad. I Constantinople, June 17.—A serious outbreak of the plague has occurred at , Bagdad. Australian Crioketers at Cambridge.

London, June 17.—The cricket match, Australian' v. the Cambridge University, was resumed to-day. The Australians having four wickets down for 112 runs, continued their first innings, and remained in all day, scoring 378 before the last wicket fell. Tho following aro the principal scores :—Murdoch, o, 132 ; Bonnor, c, 44 ; Palmer, not out, 68; Scott, c, 37.

[.SPECIAL TO PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

London, June 17.—Earl Rosebery has postponed the debate on the Recidiviste question in the House of Lords. The frozen meat by the s.s. Cuzco is turning out in splendid condition, nnd a portion of it has been placed in the market, realising 6d per lb.

AUSTRALIAN.

(Received Juue 19—12.30 p.m.) Victorian Polltloe.

Melbourne, Thursday.—The address in reply to the acting Governor's speech has been voted hy both Houses of Parliament,

' The price of the Melbourne "Argus " has ! been reduced from threepence to twopence, from Ist July, Another. Chock to New Guinea Ex ploration. Melbourne, Juno 18.—Tho " Age " has received a telegram from its special cor respondent de.patohcd with the expedition to Now Guinea, reporting his return to Thursday Island, North Queensland. The telegram states that the advance of the ex pedition was stopped by 1,200 natives, but that fully 600 miles into the Interior of New Guinea were traversed. One of the party is missing.

THE SOUDAN REBELLION.

PREPARATIONS FOR THE ENGLISH

CAMPAIGN.

BY CABUC-COPYRIGHT.

[BRITTKR'S CABLEGRAM.]

London, June 17. In the House of Commons this afternoon Mr Gladstone was questioned regarding tho railway material which, it is alleged, is being prepared at Woolwich for use at Souakim.

In reply, the Premier admitted the truth of the statement, and announced that the Government had under consideration the expediency of constructing a line from the port of Souakim to the Nile, in view of employment for the transporting of the troops composing an expedition, which may possibly be despatched into the southern Soudan during the autumn.

ELECTION NOTES.

(BY TELEGRAPH—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Tadranoa, this day. There is to be keen competition for the Tauranga seat at the forthcoming general election. • optain Morris is expected to seek re-election, and he will be opposed by Messrs William Kelly and George Vesey Stewart. Major Swindley, who resigned his post in the Nativo Constabulary for the purpose of entering politics, is already in the field, and with fair chances of success. Mr Stewart, who will support the Atkinson Government, <s likely, however, to be the popular candidate.

(BY TELEGRAPH.—rRKBS ASSOCIATION.)

Wanqandi, this day,

i Messrs Watt, Bollance, and Hutchison, Ore announced for the town electorate ; and Messrs Bryce, Morgan, and Colonel Mac donnell, for Woitotara.

Wellington, this day,

There is somo talk of Sir Julius Vogel standing for a Wellington constituency, probably that of Te Aro. Mr CB. Izard, solicitor, has decided to stand for Foxton.

Hokitika, this day. A large requisition is being got up throughout the district to Mr John Bevan, of the firm of Pollock and Bevan, of this town, to stand in the Liberal interest at the forthcoming elections.

Christchurch, this day.

Mr Alfred Badger, barrister, comes for ward for Stanmore. Mr Garrick, of Garrick and Cowlishaw, for St. Albans. Mr Chyrstat is spoken of for Stanmore. Mr S. A. Webb announces himself for Lyttelton. Mr Leonard Harper announces his inten tion, in the "Times," of offering himself for the representation of Avon district. It is reported that Mr R. J. Joint, solici tor, has been asked to oppose Mr F. J. Gar rick, solicitor, for St. Albans, and that Mr W. H. Pillett, M.H.R. for Stanmore, has been requested to become a candidate for Picton, where at one time he was R.M. It is stated that a numerously-signed requisition is to be forwarded to Sir Julius Vogel asking him to stand for Christchurch North.

Dunedin, this day,

Captain Baldwin is out for Dunedin East, and there is likely to be a keen contest. Mr Green, the present member, is seeking re-election, and Mr F. C. France, Vice- President of the Trades and Labour Council, will contest the seat in the Op position interest. A large deputation has Waited on Mr J. B. Thomson, ex-Mayor, asking him to come forward, and he is likely to consent. Mr J. S. Mackenzie will contest Mount Ida, and tho Hon. G. Mao lean is n-ated as likely to stand for Palmer ston against the present member. Mr David McKellar, of Tapanui, will probably contest the Dunstan seat..

Blenheim, this day,

Hon. Mr Conolly has issued an address seeking re-election for Picton. He states that although by an unexpected combina tion the vote of want-of-confidence passed, yet his confident belief is that the vote is not the present opinion of the country.

Fielding, this day.

Requisitions are being signed in Fielding, Halcombe Palmerston, and outlying dis tricts, asking Mr D. H. McArthur to stand to represent Manawata in the Houso.

ACCIDENT.

An accident of a somewhat serious nature oc curred to a young man named Donald Stewart, at Kraser and Tinne's foundry this afternoon. By .some mlsohanoe, his right hand became caught in some machinery, Eand before he could extricate it ono or two of the Angers were badly crushed. He prooeeded at onoe to the Hos pital, where the injury was attended to by Br. Bond;

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Before Messrs Prime and Boardman) Drunk.—Three persons were punished. No Visible Means.—William Donlan and Jane French were charged with haying no law ful means.—Detective Hughes said the man lived upon the proceeds of prostitution; he pre tended to sell oranges. The charge was also proved, against Jane French, who had been living a disreputable life—The Bench ordered three months' imprisonment In each case. ', Unclean Premises.—The following persons were flued for not keeping thoir premises in a cleanly 'state:—Peter McArthur, Chancery Lane, ss; John Sline, Hobspn street, 20s; James O'Brien, lOaj Catherine Quinn, Victoria-street, 10s. Dents Lynch remanded until to-morrow, on the application of Mr Napier. The case of Mrs Quinniwas a hard ope. She had only re cently entered the premises, was suffering from ill-heul h. and her landlord (Mr B, Graham) had promised to see to the matter. Under the cir cumstances; the Bench hoped Mr Graham would r.mlt the fine.** i No Light.—Wm. Blewden was fined Ss, tlio light In Wellesley -street having been blown out by the wind. j - . . _• ■ ..-_•■ j Allbn and Platt.—This amusing ease, be tween two ladies, Mary Allen and Ellen Platt, was amicably settled, and harmonj- was ftp parently restored. ~■■ ■ _» ." . • This was all the business. ~

WHOLESALE LIQUOR TRADE AT NORTH SHORE.

The question of wholesale liquor traffic is engaging some attention amongst the resi. dents of North Shore in connection with the application of Messrs Isaac Peel and Co., for. a renewal of the license for their bottling premises at Devonport. The matter came before tho Committee about a fortnight ago, and was then deferred till a subsequent meeting. It was fully con sidered at the adjourned pitting on Monday last, when there were On the Bench Messrs W. H, Brown (Chairman), E. Bartley, H. Brett, and J. Edson.—Mr H. H. Lusk ap- g eared with Mr Peel, while Constable [utchinson represented the police. 'It was stated that the objections raised at the mooting rested on the following grounds:—(l) That liquor had been sup plied in single bottles; (2) that drink had been supplied to a man while his condition from intemperance bordered on madness ; (S) that liquors had been supplied to persons after they had been refused at both the hotels; (4) that undue facilities were given to persons to obtain liquors on credit; (5) that the district was not large enough for a wholesale house doing only a legitimate business.—Mr Lusk urged that the letter from Mr M. Niccol embodyingthe foregoing objections should be read.—The Chairman und Mr Edson demurred to this course at first, but the other members having pointed out that it would be unfair not to make tho applicant aware of the exact nature of the charges against him, they withdrew their objection, and the letter was read by the clerk.—Some discussion took place con cerning the proper method of procedure, Mr Lusk being desirous that the charges and rebutting evidence should be depoied to upon eath. This course was considered by several members of the Cemmittee to be un necessary, and it wastacitly understood that statements would be sufficient. —Con- | stable Hutchinson was nailed, and in reply to questions put by the Chairman, said the last Licensing Committee had requested him to oaution Mr Peel concerning certain irregularities and suspected breaches of the Act. He did so, and Mr Peel expressed in dignation at the suspicions directed against him. Witness had observed other irre e-larities since then. The first occurred some four or five months ago, and formed the ground of the primary objection in Mr Niccol's letter. On that occasion, Mr Mel ville's carriage was in front of Peel's door, and he saw the man employed there come out with two bottles done up in straw, which he placed in the carriage. The vehicle Immediately drove away, but meeting Mr Melville subsequently, he asked him what the .bottles contained. The reply was that the bottles were not for himself, but for delivery to Mr Auld. Wit ness took ocoaslon to speak to the latter gentleman respecting the matter, and ho admitted that one was a bottle of whisky, and said it waspart of an order of two gallons. Witness took possession of the bottle, and reported the matter to head-quarters, but was not aware why proceedings were not taken in the case. Subsequent to this, several mem bers of a family resident at Devonport com plained to him that liquor in single bottles had been supplied their father at Peel's, although both the hotels had refrained from letting him have drink at their earnest solicitation. A bitter complaint was also made to him by a lady resident of Devonport. She said her husband was in his room intoxicated on a Sunday morning, when Mr Peel camo to the door and re quested to see him. She was ashamed to say that ho was undor; tho influence of liquor, and said be was unwell. Peel in sisted on coming in, and made his way to her husband's bedroom. She was not in the habit of eavas-dropping, but her suspi cions were aroused, and from an adjoining room sho could hear corks drawn. Peel soon afterwards took his leave, and she heard her husband thanking him fer having brought something. She was convinced that it was liquor. Both the hotels refused to supply her husband with drink, but he managed to get what he wanted at Peel's.—Mr Edson said he could confirm the constable's statement respecting the latter case, havingheard the story from the lady's own lip. In reply to Mr Lusk, the constable said he was not aware that the reason why proceedings were not taken in Melvillo's case was that the evidence was not considered sufficient to secure a convic tion. The lady referred to in the third case said she bad strong circumstantial reasons for believing that single bottles were supplied to her husband, although sho had not seen it done. A resident of the Lake quite recently told him that he was accustomed to get single bottles of liquor at Peel's, but he did not know what truth there was in the statement.—Mr Peel was then called upon to answer the charges made He denied that he had sold a single bottle of liquor, but [explained that he was in the habit of sending sample bottle1*! which were not charged or paid for. The bottle sent to Mr Auld contained sample •liquor, and was not part of an order of two gallons. That gentleman did not tell the truth when he said it was. In connection with the second case, he explained that the man came into the store while he was away, and said he wanted some whiskjr. Takingup a bottle from the counter.he said, " I'll take this now; my name is so and so." The young fellow in charge, knowing the name, did not like to atop him. When witness came in he was annoyed at what had taken place, and sent his man to the residence of the family to get the bottle back at all hazards. In the other case, he denied that he had gone to the house on Sunday mcrn tog with whisky. He went on entirely diiterent business, and did not take any liquor with him. He had declined to fill orders for this gentleman, until he at last said he would get it from town if he did not. " What," he asked, " could a business man dp under those circumstances but take the order?" No sample or other bottles wero sup plied to the resident of tho Lake referred to. ftwas nottruethat exceptional facilities were fiven by him to obtain liquor on credit, and is terms cf payment were the same as those of other business men. The North Shore business did not represent all bis trade, as he was agent for one of the largest limited liability companiesin the tradeinthis colony. He could bring proof in support of all he said. —The Bench.upon consideration, decided to adjourn the application until Thursday.

THIS DAY.

The Committee met again at noon to-day, when the same members and the Rev. Mr McCallum were present It was resolved that Peel's license should be granted for nine months, and should cease at the expiration of that t>me; and that any further application from him for renewal would be refused.

Conditional Licenses.—A petition, signed by over 300 ratepayers, praying that no con ditional licenses be granted for the future was received.—lt was agreed that conditional licenses be granted to tho Takapuna Jockey Cub for one meeting only during the year. It was also decided that in the event of conditional licenses being applied for in connection with other gatherings, special meetings of the Com mittee should be called to consider them.

FLOODS AT NAPIER.

Danger Impending over the Town.

[by telegraph—press association.] Napier, this day. Continuous rain has been falling since Saturday, the registered rainfall being nine inches. The Ngaruru River, at Waitangi, has been gradually encroaching upon the public road and railway, and some three thousand pounds have been spent by the County Council and General Government in an endeavour to open the old mouth of the river. The present flood has swept away road, and to-day the crumbling bank of the river is within two feet of the railway. The line is now being shifted, but if the flood continues it is feared the Ngaruru will break into the upper end of the AhurirL Lagoon and find an outlet at Napier. Should these fears be realised, enormous damage will be done to town and suburban properties.

ATTEMPTED SUICIDE.

A messenger from the Lucas' Creek district arrived in Devonport yesterday afternoon, and reported to Constable Hutchinson that a gum digger- named Hardy, who was lodging: with Mrs Phlllipps, had attempted suioide oy cutting his arm deeply with a gum knife. He stated Hint when Mrs Phlllipps called Hardy for break fast she received no answer, and sent a man into his room. Hardy was found lying in a pool of blood, and quite exhausted/with a deep cut in one arm. Constable Hutchinson at onco pro ceeded to the scene.

PARLIAMENTARY.

[by telegraph.]

[FROM OUR SPECIAL REPORTER.]

Wellington, this afternoon, The Financial Statement.

Ministers have gone into Cabinet to con sider the Financial Statement which Major Atkinson hopes to present to the House to night. Ministers state that they will hold the Opposition to blame if no legislation is passed this session. They state that they were prepared, if the House had assented to the sitting of the Local Bills Com mittee, to assist in passing the Timber Floatage Bill.

Kauri Gum Leases. The story of. kauri gum leases as told from Ministerial sources differs entirely from the complexion given to the facts by the Oppesition. It appears that the system of leasing land for gum-digging purposes was first initiated during Sir George Grey's superintendency of the province of Auck land, and though there is no provision in the Land Act authorising tho Land Board to lease for gum - digging purposes, the Auckland Board have pursued the course initiated by Sir George Grey ever since. In some of recent dates, clauses have been inserted entitling the Board to re-enter at a month's notice, and Ministers had intended this session to amend the Act to enable land to be leased legally for gum digging.

The Alleged Ministerial Jobbery. Inuendoes have been made in the House about a Minister who had wrongfully ac quired 30,000 acres of gum-digging_land._ I hasten to place the facts in connection with the particular 30,000 acres beforo your readers. The block was put up for auction in the ordinary manner, and was competed for by Mr "Jackson, of Mangawharo, and Mr Mitchelson, aud was knocked down to the former for £100. Mr Jackson lost several hundreds the first year, and the second year Mr Mitchelson- did not com pete, Mr Jackson getting it for £40. He again lost money over it, and last year Mr Mitchelson took it off his hands, ■ and through this very undesirable piece of pro perty was mulcted to the extent of £1,000. Auokland Members to be Opposed. I understand that the Government have decided to strongly oppose three Auckland Oppositionists at next election—Messrs Whitaker, Harris, nnd George. The latter, they suppose, intends standing for Rod ney. The Opposition Tactics.—Amendment to be Moved To-night.

Yesterday afternoon, at 4 o'clock, the Opposition caucus again met, and the Com mittee brought up a draft resolution censuring the Government for recommend ing a dissolution. There was a good deal of discussion concerning the wording of the resolution, and eventually the whips were instructed to canvass every mem ber of the Opposition with the view of ascertaining how far they would be pre pared to go. This morning the caucus again met, when the whips reported that nearly every member of the Opposition had agreed to vote for the following resolution : - " That while willing to grant reasonable* supplies to Her Majesty for a limited period this House desires to -record its disapproval of the course taken by the Ministers in advising His Excellency the Governor to dissolve Parliament, there by rendering it impossible to proceed with certain useful legislation desired by the country in view of the approaching general eloctions. and also putting the country unnecessarily to the great expenses of two sessions in one year." This motion was con firmed by the caucus, and will be moved this evening on going into Committee of Supply by Mr O'Callaghan. The Opposi tion count on a majority of from 5 to 10 in favour of it.

Mr Hurst and others have "got wind oi Mr O'Callagban's motion, and have recom mended Major Atkinson te let it pass with out discussion.

Eleotion Matters.

In view of the approaching dissolution the leading topic of discussion just now is the chances and probable changes of the election and other matters connected there with. Should prorogation take place on Tuesday, as Government hope ana expect, it will be particularly hard on the success ful candidates for East Coast and Ash burton, as without taking their seats they will be compelled .to pass through the ordeal of a contest. Mr LOcke has not yet arrived in Wellington, and will not be entitled to drawliis honorarium unless he takes his seat for one day at least. Apropos of this, I am reminded that the talk of reducing the honorarium is regarded as fudge—that two hundred guineas per ses sion is a privilege very jealously guarded by members ; indeed, there are those who say that many members will not resent the attempt to intercept supply to Her Majesty, as the occurrence of that would retard payment to them of what may very justly be expected, so far as this short session is concerned. But to return to the subject of the general election. It is now understood that' Sir Julius Vogel has definitely decided to go for one of the Wellington seats; indeed, the " Post," the editor of which is an old fellow journalist of Sir Julius, states that the great man has decided to woo the electors of Te Aro. The electors of Avon having thrown Mr Rolieston over, he is said to intend coming out for Geraldine, though some believe that he may eventu ally decide on one of the Marlborough seats. Mr Bryce will again be a candidate for Watotara, and Mr Izard, a Wellington lawyer, is announced to contest Foxton. It is believed that Mr Conolly, who has proved a source of weakness to the Min istry, will be disposed of by being called to the Upper House. Major Atkinson will contest Eginont, and though people would prefer to be represented by a private mem ber, there is no doubt of his re-election. The "Post," referring to Mr Stout's in tention to re-enter active political life, says : " With Sir Julius Vogel and Mr Stout in the Houso, working together, this would be the nucleus of perhaps one of the best and strongest Ministries seen for many years. Mr Ormond's return is probable; Mr Richardson's re-election is certain. Both would probably be willing once more to follow Sir Julius Vogel'sJead. There is really nothing to prevent Major Atkinson, if once separated from his present associates, joining in strengthening such a combination; nor would. Mr Bryce be separated from it by any gulf which could not be bridged over. Great possibilities of good results are opened up by the probable reappearance of Sir Julius Vogel and Mr Stout on the political stage." It is a matter of comment amongst Auck land members that while they are endea vouring by motions, questions, &c, in the House, to forward the promotion of the interests of the western route, Taranaki members havo made no sign. The railway is of more importance to Taranaki than to Auckland, and the inertia of the Taranaki members is, to say the least ot it, dis creditable.

TELEGRAMS.

Dinner and Presentation,

Cambridge, this day.—Mr J. P. Campbell was entertained at dinner by his many friends here on Tuesday night, on the occa sion of his leaving the district for Auckland, where be goes to join the firm of Russell and Campbell, solicitors. There were about fifty present, including all the leading men of the district. The speeches were of the character usual on such occasions. During the evening, the Chairman, Mr W. Moon, on behalf of Mr Campbell's many friends, presented him with a gold watch and albert, when the recipient expressed his acknowledgements in a well delivered and appropriate speech. Mr Campbell, who has been thirteen years in the district, iluring which time he has taken a very prominent part in all public matters, left for Auckland to assume his new duties this morning.

Messrs D. Hay and Son, of the Mont pellier Nursery, near Parnell, have just issued a neatly-printed and bound descrip tive priced catalogue of their general nur sery stock for 18S4-5. Tho list is lengthy, extending as it does over 42 pages, but it is carefully classified, nnd every ap proved variety of plants, fruit trees, and seeds finds a place in it, while the prices are uniformly low. Special attention is called to tho large and varied collection of greenhouse and decorative pants, including many new and rare varieties, while the fine selection of bedding.plants and florists' compij-ing tRe beet and most useful kind, is descrying of careful regard. Purchasers who are unapquainted with the many varieties of fruit arid other plants are recommended to leave the selec tion to the nurserymen themsalves, stating soil, situation, etc., and number required, and when this is done they are assured that none but the best and most suitable vari ties will be furnished at less, than catalogue r.rice3. The hrochure was printed at the Stah office. Mr W. S. Jones, saddler, is the town agent for Messrs D. Hay and Son.l

THE CRUISE OF THE WAIRARAPA.

[BY OUR SPECIAL CORRES

PONDENT.]

Levuka, June 12.

Arrival at Suva—Coral Reefs.

The island of Viti Levu (Big Fiji) has for nearly an hour been looming up larger and larger on the horizon. It is now a distinct line of serrated hills bounding the landscape northwards. A steamer is seen ahead, which proves to be the Penguin; owing to fog she has been lying all night ' off Kadavu, so that, though leaving 25 hours before the Wairarapa, we make-Suva har bour within half-an-hour of her. As the intervening distance is lessened, the line of hills,- shooting into the sky in an extra ordinary number of many-shaped peaks are seen to be covered with bush from sum mit to the water's edge. Here and there is a bare rock among the rows of "green sum mits, too destitute of soil to sustain vegeta- ; tion, but the land forming the coast line in the capacious semi - circular bay, around which these hills, like huge sharks' teeth, extend, is clad with rich vegetation. This beautiful feature of the islands they owe to the protection of the coral reefs that fringe their shores or form huge breakwaters far out into the sea. The surf can be seen * breaking over.the reef a short distance from the shore along the whole line of coast. At the spot towards which our vessel's bow is headed, the reef runs out in a semi-circle from the land, with an opening about the centre; it forms a massive breakwater, en closing a large bay, within which we can see' H.M.S. Espiegle lying at anchor, and/ nearer the shore, warped alongside a wharf in front of the town, are the steamers Hero, from Melbourne, and Penguin, from Auck land. A pilot comes off in a boat, manned by woolly-headed Fijians, as we near the reef, and steers us through its intricacies. In the passage we get our first glimpse of coral reefs; and to some on board, who have formed their ideas of them from the branches of fresh white coral so familiar to all colo nists, they are a disappointment. The reef,; as it lies exposed by the ebbing tide, resem bles nothing so much as a broad strip of dirty mud-bank, with water on both sides c f it. Yet how many cities in New Zealand and Australia are there not which would* pay hundreds of thousands of pounds fori such a harbour as this, built up in the course of ages with the skeletons of myriads of generations of polyps 1 I shall no doubt have opportunity for noticing these forma tions more fully at a later stage in our jour, ney; but some idea of their extent may be gathered from the fact that reliable esti-. mates compute the area of reef ground that is to say, lines of reef, with intervening bhannels and coral patches— at not less than 3,000 square miles within the Fiji Group alone I

Viti Levu is nearly encircled by a fring ing reef, which hugs the shore, and along the extended northern and eastern coast line of the other great land area, Vanua Levu, the wall, with few breaks, forms a continuous bulwark at a short distance from the coast. Projecting away into the. sea to the westward of Vanua Levu is the great barrier reef of Fiji. It is a hundred miles long, reaching almost to: the Yasawa group, and in some places is twenty-five miles distant from the land. There are good passages through, and in many parts of the great enclosed sea the depth of water is from 12 to 40 fat interspaced, however, with many submerged coral patches which call for a sharp' look out from the navigator who takes his ship into these perilous waters. Nearly all the: islands have fringing or barrierreefs, or both. Around Nairai, an island three miles long by four broad, lying 31 miles E.S.E. from Lovuka, there is an immense barrier reef encircling a broad sea channel entered by a safe passage with ten to fifteen fathoms. Far away to the eastward is the Argo reef, a massive barrier 20 miies long, en closing only two basaltic islands, the. largest about a mile in circumference, and rising to a height of 550 feet. This is one of the most dangerous reefs in the Group, and exemplifies -the characteristics of the true lagoon. * It would be mere reiteration to describe in detail the variations of these reefs in the Exploring Islands at Tahemba, Angau, Eadvu, and other parts of the Group. Sometimes the reef hugs the shore, though the end rarely joins the land; this is called a '.'fringing" reef. Sometimes it stands away from the shore with channels and seas of various widths and depths, between the reef and land, usually Obstructed, however, by coral patches. Then it is known as a "barrier" reef. *

This, however, is a digression, and I must return to the subject anon. We left the Wairarapa following the beacon marks and buoys that define the channel through the reef at Suva. The passage is ample to give good working room, and it leads into a bay 1} miles from reef to shore, and 3 miles brood, with good anchorage in from 8 to 15 fathoms. The anchor is let go, and the first stage of the Wairarapa's cruise has been completed in. safety. ■ She has made excel lent time, notwithstanding adverse weither. The official log shows each day's run to be as follows:—

*-* miles. From 3 p.m. Wednesday to noon Thurs day .. .. .. .. .. .. 2SB From noon Thursday to noon Friday ".. 288 . From noon Friday to noon Saturday ..191 From noon Saturday to noon Sunday .. WIS From noon Sunday to noon 1.30 p.m. .. 19

Total for i days, less I hour .. 1,173

Before describing Suva harbour and the doings of our party ashore, a few facts relative to the colony of Fiji, its history and capabilities will be interesting.

The Fiji Islanda — Desorlptlve and .'■■*.. Retrospective. The number of islands comprised in the Fiji Group is variously stated by different authorities. Findlay sets them down at 312,' comprising an area of 8,034 square miles. But only some seventy or eighty are in- haoited, many of them are mere patches, some of coral-barrier reefs Or atolls, others of barren rock. The area of the inhabited islands is estimated at 7,740 square miles, Viti Levu (Big Fiji), on which Suva, the capital, is situated, containing 4,112 square miles, and Vanua Levu 2,432 square miles. Taviuna, designated " The Garden Of Fiji," owing to its great natural fertility and ex-* tensive cultivations, is the next in size, with an area of only 217 square miles; Kadavu, 124 s. m.; Koro, 58 6. m.; Gau, 45 s, m.; Ovalau, 43 s. mi.; and the other islands from 28 square miles downwards. Abstract figures, however, give a very vague idea, of dimensions; a comparison with New Zea land may be of assistance. The North Island of New Zealand comprises 44,000 square miles, and contains, therefore, an area equal to nearly six times the habitable land surface of the entire Fiji Group; the: Middle Island of New Zealand is seven times larger. One of the most remarkable and favourable features of the large islands, however, is the abundance of water. Viti 1 Levu, although only 80 miles long by 55 broad, has six large rivers. The ftewa, the largest, pours out an enormous volume of water, computed at 500,000 cubic feet per minute. It is also navigable for ships' boats a distance of 44 miles, opening up a magni ficent sugar country along its banks. The Navua, Ba, Sigatoka, Nadi, and Tuva are all considerable rivers, while there are many other strong streams. The centre of the island is mountainous, so that the rivers flow out towards the coast on all sides of tho island, watering the alluvial lands, Vanua Levu is 96 miles long by 25 broad, and is not so well watered; consequently settlement has been established chiefly along the coasts and bays. The Fiji islands aro scattered between the parallels of 15° 47' South and 19? 47' South ; and from 175- 35' East long, to 178° West. The native popu lation is about 125,000, the males exceeding the females, a, significant indication of a waning race, and the Europeans all told are little more than 2,000. There are upwards of 3,000 imported Polynesian and cOolie labourers, ~ ' ,

Weil watered- and rich in tropical vege tation—the cpcoaput jind sago palms, tyie orange, shaddock, breadfruit, banana, and other products that thiive only in the torrid zone growing with great luxu riance—it was to these islands that nume rous adventurous Australians and New Zea landers turned their thoughts towards the close of the sixties, when the devastation of the American war had sent-tiotton up to famine prices. Among, them went from Otago.Mr F. J. Moss, who still owns some valuable lands on Viti Levu ; Messrs Chal mers, Eastgate, Taylor, Muir, Elphinstone, Oi'bell, Turner, Morrison (from the Blue Spur), Recce of Canterbury, &iid jnany others. The white population of Fiji at this period was Considerably mixed and not very refined—escaped convicts, runaway sailors, and rascals of various sorts and con ditions, known under the expressive phrase of "beach-combers." To these had been added a later collection of ex-military dregs and adventurers from Auckland, who scrupled not to beguile the innocent savage with brass half-sovereigns and other civilised frauds. The first whites, like the Pakeha- Maori loafers in young New Zealand; had , attached themselves to . native tribes,, and actively assisted in their bloody wars if'they did; not actually participate in the horrible

THE AUCKLAND EVENJUNU STAR, THURSDAY, JUNE 19. 1884



* Special Advertisements. . JMrS; B, SOMERVIJXIV WELLES—KY-STREET j. (OPPOSITE ABBOTT'S OPERA HOUSE), Has Received, per Mall Steamer, A BI.AUTI-'UL ASSORTMENT -' .* - or - - • FRENCH AND ENGLISH MILLINEBY. QELLING OFF. SELLING OFF. SELLkIJG OFF. MRS BIITTERWORTH, .: HAVING A '. ..... ; ,'„', . . LARGE-STOCK .' . op - _..-■' WINTER GOODS, '.■■' ■'.-• ■ • consistingof ~*' ' MIIiUNERY. ULSTERS JACKETS '.' " LADIES' AND CHILDREN'S COSTUMES UNDERCLOTHING BABY JJNEN, &c,, Sec., _Afl DECIDED TO HOLD A . CHEAP CLEARING SALE, COMMENCXNO FRIDAY, JUNE 13. Mrs BUTTERWORTH, OPPOSITE .CITY MARKET, QCBEN .TRBET. m 0 ME E-T THE T I ME S; -*• AND THB OtriVEBSAI. DEBIRB FOB CHEAP GOODS, And to servo those .well who may favour him with their patronage, Wtti-AM B. BRIDGMAN Is now offering a large lot of Goods, purchasedi -unusually cheap, at a trifle over cost price. 900 Yards heavy .Sin. White Flannel, slightly damaged, at Hid yard, worth-Is Id Good l_e Scarlet Flannel, lid. , Good heavy Blno Scrgd, 521 n. wide. _a 3d yard 900 Yards heavy Dress Serge, alee colours, Sid yard, worth Is 3d ■■■■■■■ » Ladles' Skirts, SB lid, worth 5s 6d Job lot Children's Knitted Skirts, la 2d, Is iO, Is Gd, Is Bd, strorie New patterns in Cretonnes, _}d, 6}d> Sd Ladles' Stays, very cheap; Is 3d, Is 9d, 2s 61 30in. Grey Calico, _Jd; _6ln. heavy stout, 6d, worth 8d a stock of Blankets, amongst which are some job lines, and are being sold uircuc-i. WAREHOUSE PltlCK ■ ■'._*» -' Several large lines ot job Dress Materials at very low prices; to bo appreciated nvnst bo _ spected -• • ■ j- 'f :*y'_- The slock ot Ladies' Blaok Cloth Jackets, ulsters (In Girls' and Ladles') to be sold at a ' large discount off usual prices . ■■.' " '•-"*'•■ [mean overstock, of M_ii"_ Waterproof Coats, rill be cleared at a great reductu—. Boys' Bulla from 4s lid; Youths' Sufis (Twood). 17a fid; Mon*. Tweed Suits;'2ls. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE,



Special Advertisements. IM PORT ANT, GENUINE, CHEAP SALE. MILNE sTcHOYCE, Having decided to REDUCE THEIR VERY LARGE AND EXTENSIVE STOCK, WiU hold a CHEAP SALE. OF ALL SEASONS GOODS. _fee Stock will be Marked at COST PRICE IN PLAIN FIGURES. SALE COMMENCED ON j FRIDAY, JUNE .6. ; MILNE & CHOYCE, Corner of WELLESLEY* AND LORNE-RTREETS. TMPORTANT_ANNOinVCEMES-T. IS.-ONE SHILLING.-ls, TO THE LADIES OF AT.CKI.A_ID. I. FERNANUEZ, Having purohased from ono of the Largest Wholesale Houses in New Zealand thoir Entire Stock of Ono Thousand (1,000) Ladies' and Child ren's Fashionable WINTER HATS and BON NETS, has decided to sell them at the LOW PRICf. Of ONE SHILLING EACH. t The Colours are Black, Brown. Myrtle, Navy, Grey, and White, 'Ibey comprise all the Newest Shapes in Beaver. Velvet, Plustf, Fur, Felt, Squirrel, Satin, &o. ~,,,. _ . The above are really bcn*liful New Goods, and the mo3t Wonderfi* Value ever offerod In. Auckland. > , , In consequenco of tho vei-y large number purohased, and for the conveni-nee of my cus tomers, I have fitted up a Show-room ex pressly for these Goods. -..—._,. Please note the address:- FERNANDEZ, Draper, Karangahapo Road, Nowton. Come early for first selection.



THE SNAKE ROOT REMEDY tor RHEUMATISM ano GOUT.-The Cimicifuqa (Acvca Racemosa) oh Black SNAKE RQpT has been lono celebrated AS A RHEUMATISM REMEDY. THIS PREPARATION IS THE MOST CERTAIN IN ITS EFFECTS. AND RARELY FAILS TO AFFORD RELIEF OR EFFECT A CURE. B-. PER BOTTLE.. AT MCWU'S. IHf ?V\kr\VlKG ~" O-yOSIIt BMW. Of H.l. OTttJU SI.



Not too Late !—Electors who have neglected to place their names on the roll should do so at once. Forms of applical ion at the Star Office. Rew's General Grocery and Provision Stores are brought und.r your notice as supply ing the best quality of groceries and provisions st wholesale prices. Your orders called for and delivered.—Address Rew's, Viotoria-strce -> —[Advt.J :. Perambulators and carpets, reversible bioyole wheel and other kinds of perambulators iu?t opened from £1 to £7. -New desigas in .russelß and tapestry carpets. Furnish your house throughout from Garlic.: and Cranwell's I City Hall Furnishing Warehouse, Queen-st™ et i -lAD**- .-.'' • • ' j