SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

j HIGH WATER {^^'^tonlif. G.H BUNSRT.-Thls Evoning, 7.12 BUNItISK—To-morroiv'jlorning, 5.15 MOON'S AGK.-Xew Moan, 28lh, 1 -10 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

i Mcdora,sell, Subritzky, from Mongonui 1 Waitaki. s.s., Crawford, from W'lmngarei { lona, s.s. Amodco, from Russoll .j Glonolg, s.s,, Stophenaon, from Tatiranga

DEPARTURES.

I Gisliorno, sell, Skinner, for Poverty Hny j Fanny Kelly, ketch. Williams, for Whangaroa ! Macgroßor, s.s., Johnson, for Whangarei

EXPORTS.

Per Naiad,for Sydney—23o,Co feet timber.

Inwards Coaktwjsk.—Adah, from Thames. With 20,COOI't timber; Mciloru. from Mongonui, with 2i.3l,')ft timber: Sovereign of the Seas, from Whanpcarei. with lii tons coal; Funny, from Whangapou, witli ■ 2.),000fl timber; Atalnnta, from Tuiriia, wit.i 2.i,8"8ft timl'er, 11,S00shingles; Ocean, from Whangaiiiatu, with 7 tons gum.

Outwards Coastwise.—Atalantn.forTnirua. The brig Naiad elearcdftt tho Customs to-day, for Sydney, via Mercury Bay.

The schooner 1 levonport and barque Wcnona may be expected to arrive from Newcastle early next week.

The s.s. (Jlenclt; arrived from Taurauga early this morning, with the following passengers:— Air and Mra Phillips, Mr and Mrs G. Kimpton, Mr and Mrs Budd and 2 children. Mr anrt Mrs Ken wick, and Mm Perawi. Mr and Mr3 lv -vis, Mr and Mrs Hendell, and Mrs Pearcc, Mrs lialbersbio and two ladies, Mrs Cinnamon and son Jlrand Mrs Nowboldnnd two children, Mr and Mrs E. Crccr, Mr Smith a-id family il', aVlistes Allely, Dilto, Leudbealcr, Colebrook, Latimar, Barry, Viaton, Knox. and Bush (2), Messrs Kmnson, Johnson, Pilling, Mnlprnn, Davis, Whitakcr, H. Knowlcs.

Tho s s. Waitnki, Captain Crawford, arrived in port last evening from Whnnffarel with the following passengers: — Mcsdamcs May, Mclnncs. Cooper, MathcHon I-). Calvcrt, Cork, Bain, Nicco); Misses Stevens, Matlieson, McLt-od, Caniiiclmcl I*) '1 horn ton; Masters Gillies, Giddy Carmkhßd (21. Malhuson, Xiccol, Culvert {■!). Cork, Bruce; Messrs Abornethy, MeLooii, Buc anan, Wilding. May, Sandford Hutlor, Melnnes, Winkle, Mclntyre, Juggcr, Low, Mathieson (-■). Whitelaw, Cork, Niccol, Marsrtcn, King. H. To Moncrmia. and 1 steerage.

Tho s.s. lon.i arrived from Russell and North ern ports this morning, with the following passengers:—Misses Gibus. Crossley, ami Gilfil lan, Mr and Mrs J. R. Smith, Madam Schmidt nnd party (fi), Mr and Mrs Hewitt, Jlrand Mrs "White and 3 children, ltev. R. Burrows, Masters Gilfillan, Wade, Nftapua, Tano, Huhti, Capper, Mcsdamcs Chcwson, l'ooley and 2 children, Hayes, IGibbs. Downs, Flavell, Messrs Isom. Troggnrt, O'Jirien, P. Prown. Tame, Hawkins, Hopkins, Kirkwoofl, Phiinpps, Collins, Win. Clarke, Cant, Sohinitt, W. Dickinson, Hayes, Jaggor, Perrott, Xorrie, Tame. Fuller. Mason, Garton, llanna, Chapman, Campbell, Johnson, Bazzcll, Geo. Wilkinson. Rhodes. Flavcll, S, Hall, Thomas, Snowdcn, Ilnggcr, W. Petty.

UNION STEAMSHIP COMPANY.

The following arc the movements of the Union Company's steamers arranged for the ensuing ■week:-,To arrive: Hawea, from Taranaki. Sunday, 8 a.m.; Southern Cross, from South, Sunday; Wairarapa, from South, Monday, 10 a.tn.; Ringarooma, from Sydney, Tuesday; Wairavnpa, from Russell. Wednesday; Hawea, from Wellington, Wednesday. 8 a.m.; Taka puna, from Tarannki. Wednesday. 0 p.m. To leave.': Hawcn, for Wellington, Sunday, 0.15 n.m.: Wnirarapa, for Russell. Mondny, 5 p.m.; Southern Cross, for South, Monday, 6 p.m.: Hawea, for Taranaki, Wednosduy, 10 a.m.; Itingaroonm. tor Sydney. Wednesday, 4 p.m.; Takapuna, for Tarannki, Thursday, 11 a.m.; Wairarapa, for Gisbornc, Thursday, 12 noon.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Russell, this day.—Sailed : Nortul.forAuok and. Arrived* Devon. Whangarei, (his day.—Sailed: Rowena, for Auckland,!).3o a.m.

COMMERCIAL.

EvK.vi.NG Star Oliico. thi3 day

MESSRS CARBINES AND TAYLOR Held their usual Friday's sale of poultry, produce, etc., and report a good attendance, and fair prices were obtained in all departments. Poultry: "Y.onn;.c chicks, 9d to IsM: fowls, 'Sid to 2s fid; geese, younpr, 3s Od nnd 3s 9d; Langshan pullets. Is 7d to Is I'd ; yoiui;.' ducks, is Sd to Is Bd, grown, Is Sd to 23 (id : Cochin t'liimi fowls, 33 6d to ss; lion and chickens, as Oil to 8s Cd; canaries, 7s to 20s; goldfinches. 2s to is'Jd : eky larks, 3a 3d; linnets, 13 3d. Young pigs were disposed of at high rates; those being entered wero from good prize stock, from 11s to2os each. Rabbits, 13; thrush and cage, 9s; pouter pigeons and canary breeding cages. 53 to 17s. Produce: Now potatoes, assorted, conic freely into market, and sell at from 2s to 4s 9d, according to finality; onion 3, 3d to IJd pcrlb; prime Canterbury hams. 10 to Hid; medium hams, Id to Si, inferior Id to M ; pigs' jowls, 2d per lb; bacon. Cd to !)Jd; Wairoa and Canter bury cheeso, 3d to 4Jd, inferior fi\ to 3d; salt butter in keg. Jd to Cd per lb; fros 'Hitter, 7d; honey in comb. sd; keg beef, 'd .;■ 2dperlb; maize, 3s to 3s Gd; wheat (good sample), 3s Od; oats, 2s 5d to 23 3d; pig meal, ss; Hour, 93 to 13s.

IP TIIOSK WHO ARK STRICKEN WITH DISEARB ONLY KNEW WHAT WAR GOOD FOR THEM, the ranks of tho medical profession would soon bo decimated. As it in. iho Army of Physicians should be reduced, and Urn only means of shut ting out its constantly increasing recruits is for patients to familiarise themselves, from the the voluntary teaehiiiKSof experience, with the remedies applicable to their respective cuses. Thus Unoi.riio Woi.kk's Schikdam Akomath: SCHNAPPS would subserve the purposes of mul tifarious prescriptions.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Maim wiu Close as ukdku :- Tnis Day. For Wellington Southern Ports, and London (via Rio dc Janerio from Lyttclton, por Aornngi), per Hawea, at 1.20 p.m. Kor money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at H. 20 p.m. Late letters till 1.10 r.m. For Whangarci Heads, Whangarei, Komo, and Jtangapai, per W'aitaki, at 5 p.m. For Waterford, Tauranga, etc., per A.Mubank, at 5 p.m. For'iiiunius, per Anno Milbank at 5.30 p.m. Moxday, 28th inst. For Waitaru, etc.. per Argylc, at 11 a.m. For Coromandcl, per Coromandel, at 11.30 a.m. For Thames, per Rotomabana, at noon For Tairim, per Atalanttt, at 3 p.m. . For Russell and Kawakawa, per Wuirorapa, at For P Tauranga, Ohinemutu, and Opotiki, per Glenelg, at 1 p.m. For Russoll, Kawakawa, Whangaron, nnd Mongonui, per lona, at 1.30 p.m. For Whitiangi and Upper Mill, per Rowenn, at 5 p.m. ForGisborne, Napier, etc., per Southern Cross, at 5 p.m. Tuesday, sth Fobruary. Per s.s. Australia as follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United States of America, Canada, Uritish Columbia; Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 11 a.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 11 a.m. For monoy orders, tho previous evening at 1 o'clock. For registered lettors and newspapers, at 10 a.m. Lato lotters. bearing nn extra fee of six pence in addition to the postage, will be received by tho Mail Agent on board tho stcamor up to tho time of sailing. This mail will be duo in London on Sat urday, March 15, '.881. S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-ofltce. Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

January 20, irsi,

Abbott's Opera House— Court Minstrels, 8 Pin.

Wesloyan Church, Ponsonby— Evangelistic Service. 7.30 p.m. Y.M.C.A—Dovotional, 7.30 p.m. Entrances for Auckland Hiflo Association Matches-Mr Hazard's Shop, 7 to 0.30 p.m. Entries for Auckland Regatta — Wuitcmnta Hotel, S to 10 p.m.

Birth.

HAttDING.—On January 23, tho wife of James W, Harding of a daughter.

Marriage.

KEEGAX—POOLEY.—On January 17. 18S1, at St. Matthew's Church, by the Rev. Mr Tobbs, Clarence, third son of the Into Mr James KecKan, to Alice Margaret, third daughter of Mr Joseph Pooley, builder, of this city.

Deaths.

COLE.—On January 25th, at Hobsonstreot, the infant son of John and Jcssio Cole; axed 9 months.

MURRAY.—On January 23, at Arondnlc, Isabella Murray, beloved wife of Thos. Joseph Hurray, late of Arch Hill. The funeral will leave her lato residence by New North Road or Mount Albcrt,Sunday,27th inst., at 2 p.m., for Auckland. All friends accept this invitation.

THOMSON.—At York-street, Parnell, early in the morning on the 26th inst., Amelia Dennett, dearly beloved daughter of James and Ger> trudc Thomson ; ngud 7 months. Funeral leaves at 3 p.m. tomorrow (Sun day).

Notices to Correspondents.

P. Mouiautv.—Court i 3 tho proper place for such matters, then both sides can ba heard. The matter is not of sulllcicnt public im portance to warrant us in Rivinffspace loyour letter and the replies it would inevitably pro voke.

Maori Weed.—Nothing reliable can be learnod about the matter. Tho better plan would be for you to tolograph to Ltinn at Wellington.

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

SATURDAY, JANUARY 26, 1881.

Kor the CaUSO tfttlt k.,]- q n<ra>atimrn For tho wrong that nSSSff^SwSSce For the future in the distanco, And the good that wo can ->n '

We were disposed to allow tho local Com mittee of Xewton East to fight out the ques tion of the appointment of teacher in their own way without any attempt to influence their proceedings, but the abusive article which appears in this morning's " Herald," and tho manifest determination of our con temporary to distort tho facts, to heap un deserved contumely on a public body, and to damago the national school system by raising the roligious bogio, de mands that we should prevent the house holders from boniff misled by garbled stato ments of fact. Tho "Herald's" vitupera tion and misrepresentation has so overdone the business as to defeat its own purpose by showing the people that if there be any intrigun at all our contemporary is its tool, Tho facts of tho caso, divested of all colour, are simply these: In response to an adver tisement, the Board or Education re ceived 22 applications for the Head mastership of Newton East School. These were forwarded to the local School Com mittee on the 11th instant. It happened that an ordinary meeting of the Committee was convened for the same night, at which four members attended, and, in ignorance of the law, they immediately proceeded to the consideration of these applications. Two members were in favour of Mr O'Donoghue and two against him, and after wrangling for some hours one of the committee-men (Mr Wilkes) withdrew his opposition, and the nomination was for warded to the Board the next day. Now, section 72 of the Education Act provides, and very properly, " That no recommenda tion of theßoard concerning theappointment, &c, of a toacher shall be considered at a meeting of the School Committee unless notice in writing to the effect that such business is proposed to be presented has been addressed to every member of the Committee three days at least before the meeting at his usual or last known place of abode." It was manifest on the faco of it that the Committee had been guilty of a flagrant breach of this provision, and that the Board could not legally accept Mr O'Donoghue's nomination. At the meeting of the Board three days afterwards, Jfr Thco. Cooper drew attention to the Haw, and it was resolved, on his motion, to refer the appointment back to tho Committee — indeed, no other course was open to tho Board. So far from attempting to bias the Committee against Mr O'Donoghue's appointment, the Board, in referring tho matter back, did not in form the Committee of what was neverthe less true, that Mr O'Sullivan, Inspector of Schools (himself a Roman Catholic), had reported adversely on the appointment of Mr O'Donoghuo to a largo city school like Newton East, bating his report on tho management of the Wjiio- Karaka. It was still competent for tho local School Committco to appoint Mr O'Donoghue i but jn the meanwhile such a strong feeling—lio doubt influenced partly by roligious prejudice—had arispfi in the Committee and among patents of chil dren attending the school that a majority of tho Committee, believing that to forco tho appointment would do great injury to a school which has SOO children on its roll, nominated anotlicv applicant and' sent his name to the Board.

It is unfortunate that theso di/lerenoes should have ariKen, and that the rpligious element blioulc! havo boon imported into tho question at all, but how the Board are to blame for that, tho " Herald " tleoms it superfluouE to explain, and tho charges of " dunderheadedncss" wliioh it flings around with singular facility and reckloesness appear most applicable to its own misconception or wilful misconstruction ef the entire case, and its extraordinary obtuseness in pouring out viak of wrath on the wrong shoulders. By again leaving the whole matter to tho decision of the new Comraittoe, strengthened by tho opinion of householders, at the annual meeting on Monday next, tho Board lmvo proved their desire to keep perfectly clear of the row. Tho principles of local self-government are fully expressed in the Education Act, and it is for tho householders of Newton East, through their represen tatives, to say whether they want Mr O'Donoghug or not. If they do not want him, we fancy they will hardly prove so " dunderheaded " as to be fi'ightgnpfl into taking him by the Roman Catholic bogie, tho "Herald," or what Bishop Moran and Bishop Jlcclmond will say. (It may be pretty safely affirmed that the hostility of those ecclesiastics towards schopk which they declare Catholics do not and ( cannpt use will be vary little affected by anything Newton gasi;' n}«y da, altiough they will doubUosa turn to their

H Ul 'i^rvcui uuti - ,ow.

own purposes the fire and fury of tho "Herald."

The omission from ~lho list of scholar ships of the name of a pupil attending the WaioKaraka School is another and a totally different question. The Board have only done justice to the lad in making good his loss. The matter should not, however, end there ; it is the duty of tho Board to probe the affair to the very bottom, and discover who is to blame and how tho error occurred. We understand that tho Secretary accepts tho entire re sponsibility, the error having occurred in making out the lists, but there can be no great difficulty in discovering when and where the omission began, and by whose fault. Wo believe there is quite enough of honest determination to do right in Ihe Board to ensure that this will bo done.

The Frozen Meat Trade.

Tiik steamship Doric, -which is expected to reach Auckland next week, brings account sales of recent shipments of New Zealand frozen meat to London, and it is feared that these will show a considerable loss to shippers. Our London correspondent, in his last letter, pointed out the steady de cline thnt was taking place in the retail jirico of New Zealand mutton in the London market; and now Mr Charles Pluumyn undertakes to demonstrate the cause of the declension. Writing to the " Now Zealand Times " from London, lie comments upon the low prices which have boon ruling of late, and ex presses the opinion that the decrease in prico is duo, firstly, to the want of an adequato market for the largo cargoes of meat that are being landed, and secondly, to tho breed of sheep' not being suited to the freezing trade. He says:-"Wo lmvo hitherto been breeding with a view to fat, as that paid best for boiling-down purposes. Now, this class is just what is not wanted here. The sheep must lie thoroughly fattened, but the breed must be such that a large proportion of meat is mixed, and not fat alone. I see greatdifliculty in breed ing this class of animal without sacrificing tho wool-producing qualities, and yet till this is done I am assured that our average prices must be considerably less than those obtained for English sheep, which have, of course, been bred exactly to meet tho market." The problem of how to find a breed of sheep which shall yield wool of good qualify and quantity, and at the same timo bo suitable for slaughtering and freezing,may be left on one side ; as Mr l'narazyn remarks, the difficulty to bo immediately faced is how to ship at a profit the sheep which we have. The only solution which he can suggest, is that a reduction must bo made in the cost of freezing and carrying ; and this we urged several months ago, when wo published a detailed statement of account sales. We have- no doubt that tho shipping and freezing companies, in face of tho present unre muncrative aspect of tho trade, will agree to a reduction ot their rates. If the trade is allowed to fall oil' in any way, tho result will be disastrous to. all concerned : while if it can only be established by a certain amount of loss being suffered for a time, it is only right that tho freezing and shipping companies should share the burden. In their own interests, if not from any patriotic feeling, they should be prepared to do this, as tho collapse of tho frozen moat trade would mean serious loss to them, after the cost which they have incurred in fitting upcxpenslve refrigerating machinery and chambers. Tho arrangements which aronow being made for the better distribu tion of the meat throughout the United Kingdom will doubtless have the effect of raising the price permanently, and with moderate charges for freight and freezing this will give satisfactory returns to shippers. All the Si me, it is none too soon for our breeders ami . • >• .. . vners to cast around for information as to what breed of sheep is best suited for the double purpose of yielding the best wool clips and the best quality of meat for the English markets.

In to-day's Supplement will be found an interesting description of tho town mills and faxrtory of tho New Zealand Timber Company. The Auckland Savings Bank is receiving its Finishing touches, and will be ready for occupation in a few days. It is one of the most substantial and ornamental buildings

in the city, and its internal arrangements aro complete, combining grandeur of appearanco with every convenience fw banking purposes. -.uu uvuiu uusuiwatiotl Das approved of the appointments of Mr Newell Pliillinpsto Wellesley-street School, Mr Julian Brook to Beresford-strcet, and Mr Alfred Bengo, To Awamutu, to Devonport. At the meet £ix«jf yesterday, Rev. Mr Coates tele graphed, asking; his name to be withdrawn from tho list of candidates for mastership of Newton East, although informed that he had been recommended for appointment. The Board has now deferred the selection of a master till next week. With reference to a paragraph which appeared in our last issue concerning the wrath of certain Councillors at the early publication by the Staii of Committee re commendations, we aro requested to state that Cr. Montague was not one of those who "waxed warm" over this jour nalistic energy. lie inveighed, how ever, against the . practice which soir.o Councillors seemed to have of repeating to interested parties such private expres sions of opinion as were made use of in Committee over the business that was being considered. A recent and flagrant instance of this kind had just come under Cr. Mon tague's observation. The following patents have recently boon applied for in New Zealand : —W. Edwards, Christchcrch, patent for straining or tight en ing wires on fences; Donald Donald, Master ton, for an improved clothes mangle ; and Christian Julius Toxward, Wellington, for improvements in tents and temporary houses for military and other purposes.

Tho estimated population of the New

Zealand cities and principal towns has just been published by tho Registrar-Uoncral. Tho respective numbers aro as follow: — Cities: Auckland, 27,275 ; Dunedin, 25,761; Wellington, 22,110; Christehureh, lfi,osß,or including Sydonham, which is really a part of the city, 23,:302. Towns: Nelson, 7,118 ; Oamaru, 0,318; Napier, 0,185; Thames, 5.205; Wanganui, 5.012 \ Invercargill 3,017; Lyttelton, 4,-103; Tiinaru, 1215; Caveraham, 4,20'J ; Now Plymouth, 3,70(3; Hokitika, 2,779.

We notice with satisfaction that the Harbour Board are trimming up the area around the Graving Dock and eradicating the "docks" that grow so luxuriantly] Another Meek, and the seeds, now fast ripening, would bo scattered broadcast and the dock would have become a dock-yard in the double sense. Whethor the Harbour Board, or the wakeful Captain Burgess, their ollicials are acting for tho pleasure and convenience of the citizens, who in largo numbers every evening resort to tho yard to see the bout crews that aro practising for the coming regatta, or for the purpose of preventing tho weeds propagating themselves, they are eqimlly to be commended, and this para graph will not have been written in vain if it should induce the City Council to issue an order for clearing the docks growing on all allotments in the city beforo tho seeds have fallen. There are unoccupied allotments, and oven pleasuregrounds, whore the crop is very abundant, and to allow tho seeds to fall and blow over the country will cause v common nuisance. In England they are not allowed to seed on public highways even in remote districts, but should the present power of propagation <.;o oil unchecked Auckland bide fair to bocome par oux<}lencc tho city of "docks" without putting a fjnjsji on Calliope or driving a pile in I tobson-street.

Tho majority of the Auckland public and private schools resume duties next week. The first term for ISSi in connection with t)io Auckland College and Grammar .School and its l'onsonby branch will begin on Wednesday, Further particulars as to entrance can bo had on reference to tho advertisement. The enrolment of students proceeds most satisfactorily. There are already 48 ordinary pupils enrolled, besides 3 holders of certificates. There are also 7 district scholars expected, with 4 liawlinga scholars, and one junior scholar of the Grammar School. This will make a total of 03, being an increase of1 between 20 and 30 on last term. In regard to tho evening classes, it will bo noticed that eight names must be enrollod for eacli class during the Bret week of the term or no class will bo tormod. To the usual subjoets (arithmetic, algebra, goomotry, chemistry, French and Utin), drawing has boon added. Only two olassos wore formed last term- but as it appears the Trust Deed makes it compul sory to hold these dasm, it kto bo hop 1 that they will be more largely availed of lhe notices in connection with other school" appear in our advertisement columns.

~ At t?!§ meeting of the Board of Educa tion yesterday afternoon a letter was re ceived from the Auckland "City Committee drawing attention to the success of Mr Thwaites as a teacher. The Inspector minuted the lotter that this sort of thing gcemed to liim to open the door to a systom f)f favouritism with ruinous results. Tho Jettcr vas tljerefore efmpjy received,

A neatly-dressed child of five years old was brought into Court yesterday, and com mitted to tho Industrial School on the evi dence of Constable Henry Clarke. Jt ap peared that tiie mother of tho child, whoso name is Button, was one of the unfortunate class of women who infest tho slreols, and that tho child had suffered neglect under the care of Mrs Lamb, a person of un savoury reputation. Having heard the melancholy tale of the disowned, His Worship made the order accordingly.

An interesting mooting of the J. E. Ked niond branch of tho Irish National Land League was held last evening in the Catholic Literary Institute, Wellington street. There wao a large attendance of members. A well-constructed paper on "Homo Rule" was read and discussed. At intervals poetic selections from Ireland's living poets wore given, and a most, interest ing [loom recited, entitled "Never, never," written by the Protestant Bishop of Deny.

The further hearing of tho charge of in decent assault against Thomas .lames Jion shaw, of Onohunga, was adjourned until Friday next.

To the Editor: Sir, —In reading your paper, I have not learned as to what order the temperance procession will take. As it is a procession of temperance orders, and not temperances procession pure and simple, I suppose each body or tent will be led by its ollicors in their respective orders, and each order by its grand lodge or district ollicers, according to seniority.—l am, etc., I>. .1, BiiAXT, I'.G.A.S., 1.0. U.T.

Tho annual meeting of All Saints parish ioners took place last night, and passed oil' very .satisfactorily to all concerned. Tho

salary of the incumbent was increased from 12.~>0 to -100, thus substantially evidencing the gentleman's popularity, while as tho Church accommodation has now become quite inadequate, the vestry wore directed to report upon tho best plan of enlarging the building, with tho view of providing for 17;") or so additional sittings.

We aie requested to fall the attention of dealers in kerosene that licenses expire on tho 31st of this month, and require to be renewed on or before that date.

Mr Charles Cooper writes to state in reference to our report of the lire at View Road, Mount Eden, that lie was insured for L'J.'iO, not Ll5O as slated in our report yesteidiiy.

Mr Moss's motion at tho Board of Educa tion yesterday afternoon touching the ad visability of reminding the publioof tho im portance attaching the annual meetings of householders on Monday, was passed after the following paragraph had been elided fram his proposed notice:—"That these powers (i.e., those granted to committees) practically include tho appointment of teachers, and the control of school."

To the Editor: Sir,—ln answer to Mr It. Portson, lam prepared to give him or anybody else a good guarantee for £150, in addition to the insurance, if he will put my homo in William-street in tho same position as it was before the fire. Here is a chance for him.— Yours, &c, Rchieut Kki.i.v, William street.

Tho monthly inspection of the Naval Brigade was held last night, Major Shepherd inspected the Company.

A full programme of fixed events in the amusements provided by tho Committee of the United Tompemnco Societies appears in another column, and present* a very credit able appearance. The list of prizes and donors thereof are also given, and wo are re quested to return the best thanks of tho Committee for such a hearty response to the appeal. In addition to the (ixed events, about 1.10 will be spent for the amusement of the juveniles. The entries for handicap events close this evening, and must be made at Mr Grant's oilico, Queen-street, between (i.IJO and 8 o'clock.

"Curio wants to know what tho /turd term menus and why it exists'; Ho adds, "surely our well-paid and little-worked judges and Court ollicers have far more holidays and easier times than any business beings, and why the course of public business, after tho lengthened holidays are only just over, should be delayed by ancient usages in these modern times, coo id ignoramuses would like to know, you know t"

Tho dramatic performance and concert in the Theatre Royal on Monday- night in aid of the funds of the Convent of the Sisters of Mercy, Ponsonby, will prove very enjoy able. The Fire Brigade Dramatic Company have had very satisfactory rehearsals, and tw_namga ,of Messrs Edwards, Sceattf, 0 .Tare, Scott -mil, iU., ' ;m , ~l larailleo thnt tho vocal part of the cikcftnimnunt will be of a lirst-class character. The Har rison Band have also given their services for the occasion, and will supply the or chestral music during tho evening. The evening's entertainment ia under tho natron age of the Major and members of the City Council.

We aro pleased to hear tho Government have accepted tho sorvioo of a Naval Artillery Corps for Devonport. Tho atten tion of our North Shore readers is called to an advertisement in our columns requesting their attendance at the Oddfellows' Hall, Devonport, on Monday evening. Wo trust there will bo a large attendance, as this is a movement in the right direction, tho North Head being considered by His Excellency the main defence of Auckland. It only rests, therefore, with the resident? of the marine suburb to make this one of the finest and most useful corps in the colony.

A lock of hair oneo bestowed by some maid upon a too secretive lover has just been discovered in an oak tree, three feet six in diameter, which was sawn up into planks. One of those planks found its way to a carpenter's shop, where it attracted attention by an old-looking branch-like knot traversing its snbstnnco. This knot, excised from the tree out of sheer curiosity by one of the workmen, proved to bo a peg of yew, containing a lock of bright red hair, Further investigation demonstrated that a hole had been bored into tho trunk of tho treo with an auger, and that the plug freighted with love's gift, had boon driven into the aperture thus opened for it. In course of time tho wound inflicted upon the tree had healed over the plug so effectually that tho portion of the trunk under which tho ruddy lock lay concealed exhibited no fewer than 250 " rings," each one represent ing a year's growth of the brave old oak, chosen a.m. ICJJ2, as the hiding-place of his sweetheart's ringlet. The difficulty of keep ing a secret for over has seldom been more quaintly illustrated than by the accident by which this sturdy heart of oak has been compelled to yield up its charge after keep ing it for two centuries and a half.

To tho Editor : Sh',—ln your issue of last evening is a police report of the trial of two boys for defacing with paint tho Wcslcyan Chapel, New North Road, and the ca.-sc is headed, "Young Freethinkers." 1 have read over the report carefully and cannot discover any allusion toFrcothought or Freethinkers. If anything appeared in the trial to warrant the heading, please give it publicity, If the heading was the result of accident or other cause, plea.se correct it. Many besides myself will bo interested with your explanation, 1 trouble you because I am a Freethinker, and from my knowledge' of Freethinkers generally, and in Auckland, am of opinion that though in tho matter of credulity they aro not equal to Christians, in tho matter of conduct they are.—Yours truly, A. CAMVBlifX. —[We must really decline tho task of conducting a research into tho religious or non-religious opinions of these young scamps. Our cor respondent will, however, admit that what ever their title to the use of his cherished designation on a religious ground, they certainly exhibited considerable freedom of thought on the subject of property rights,— 13d. E.S.J »

The ordinary meeting of the City Schools Committee was held last evening. Tlicro wore prcsont: Sfoaars J. G. Carr (in tho chair), Warburton, Aloy, I3rame, Oiler,'and Thwaitcs. Communication from the Hoard intimated (1) that tho L'Sth inst. was tho date fixed for the animal meeting of house holders to elect a new committee for tho city schools ; (2) that there wore no funds available for removal of bank at IJeresford sfcroet School, but that Mr Alhvright ]md renommonded tho cutting of a channel which would onrry off the water ; (3) that cansideratlon of the Committee's request that the Kindergarten system should be in troduced in the schools had been post poned ; (4) that it was proposed to remove Miss Ilnrkiss at her own request and appoint Miss A. E. Bottrill to Nelson-street School; that the Board proposed Miss 21. S. Me- Arthur and Miss Clara Westwood as assistant teachers for Wollesley-strcet School. The Committee having re ceived and sonsklcrecl theso coinmuui cations, agreed to signify its approval of tie .appointment referred in the two lattor. The trustee in the Rawlings estate wroto stating that lie did not see any advantage could be derived from again publishing & return of the names of the boys who had won scholarships.— A circular was received from Mr Adam Porter, asking for the Com mittee's support at tho forthcoming eleption to fill a vacancy on j,he Board. Tfiis, along with a letter from Mr 11. Stowo with reference to school books, was referred to the incoming committee—Plans of the new school building to be eroeted in Napier street were received and approved.—This concluded tho business,

A musical treat of unusual excellenco will be offered the public in a few days. Mr R. Warwick Gainor, primo baritono a3soluto of Milan, and quite recently leading baritono of the Montague-Turner Royal English Opera Company has arrived in Auckland, en route home, and he has been prevailed upon to give a grand popular concert on Saturday next assisted by tho chief localmusicians. The Australian press speak unformly high terms of the gentleman's vocal abilities, and his finished style of execution. The particulars of the concert will be advertised early next week,

The Salvation Army have taken St. George's Hall, at tho Thames, and have leased it for a term of tho proprietor, Mr Ehrenfrled, brewer, and will open tire to morrow, under two able leaders of ex perience. Mr Ehronfried has gone to con siderable expense in decorating and restor ing the hall for tho reception of the gallant soldiers, who are resolved upon doing good without bloodshed.

To the Editor : Sir, —Kindly allow me to call tho attention of tho members and adherents of the Blue Ribbon Army to the advertisement re procession on Tuesday next. Every man and woman who can possibly bo present are urged to do so.—l am, &c, Samuel Mackarlanjj.

Tho spring oart of Mr Walmsley, of Grey street had an upset in Newton Road oi: Wednesday, canning a great scatter of lollies and lolly-tins, but no further damago was done.

The war between Franco and China, and the probablo blockade of Chinese ports, brings into prominence tho portion of the trade of these colonies with the Chinese Empire. Some interesting details of the trade of New South Wales are given in a recent issue of tho "Sydney Morning Herald." The exports for 1883 from Sydney to China amounted in value to LIG,GOB, and to Hong Kong, which in a British pos session, L153,G51. The articles which are sent are numerous, but the principal are bocho-do-mor, coal, coin, fungus, old iron, lead, old metal, and preserved meuts. The value of the imports for the year was —from China L 231,274, and from Hong Kong L' 201,713. Tho principal articles imported woro baskets and basketware, coll'eo, drapery, drugs, earthenware, fireworks, lish, (salt, dried, and preserved), furniture, mats and matting, oil, opium, pickles and sauces, preserves, provisions, rice, liqueurs, raw sugar, tea, "cigars toys, and fancy goods. The largestimportis,ofcourpo,tea,of which 372,5211b, valued atL25,7!!3, was im ported during the year from Hong Kong ; and 3,500,9051b, valued at L' 202,700, from Chinese ports. From Newcastle tho oxport of coal to Chinese ports for tho year 1883 8,010 tons, and the total value of tho exj ports L4,7'H. The value of the imports from China during tho samo year was l,(S,!K)l. Tho export of coal to Hong Kong amounted to 100,510 tons, tho value being L 55.05-1.

Final arrangements in connection with the Eight Hours Demonstration were made at a meeting of tho Committee held in the Working Men's Club * last evening. Donations of i's 5s from Mr J. Shechan and i'l Is from the Rev. Father W. Macdonald were acknowledged. A donation of cordials from Mr Grey was also accepted with thanks. Tho Chairman (Mr Heslop) stated that in an interview with Sir George Grey that gentleman had given him an outline of his proposed address, which pro mised to bo ono of the best ever given by him in New Zealand. It was decided to issue SOO more distinguishing ribbons, making tho total number 3,000; also, that the Committee should wear distinguishing rosottes of red, white and blue, and tho assistants ribbons of blue and pink. Mr R. Best's tender for carting was ac cepted. Judges wcro appointed for the obstacle race, two being chosen for each obstacle, in order to prevent any possible confusion. It was further decided that the bicycle race be for amateurs only, and that post entries will be received on the ground. After passing a motion inviting members of all trades to take part in the procession of the 20th inst., the meeting was adjourned till Monday next, at7.3op.m

A return bearing on tho subject of build ing societies in England, just issued, shows that there aro 1,687 societies in existence, with a membership of 193,271, and tho total receipts during tho last financial year amounted to no less than L 20,910, 47;). Of societies making a return of liabilities there were 1,525. tho liabilities being, to the holders of shares, L29,351,G11, and to depositors L10\351,611. There was a u.imiii-c "■' >...- t . t .»o r ii'iut/'d profit to tho extent of L 1,567,942. The assets amounted to 144,587,718. Scotland had nothing like tho same proportion of these building societies as England. In Scotland the total membership was only 5,35(i. The receipts were 1.413,000, the liabilities to holders of shares amounted to L(574,!)00 and to depositors and other credi tors 1/208, Til I. The assets consisted of balance duo on mortgage securities, L 087.987 ; and a sum of L67,C18 invested in other securities and cash. Ireland had 071-1 members of building societies. Tho re ceipts were L 775,87!); liabilities to the holders of shares, L1i54,3!)0 ; to depositors and others, L4.")2,050. Tho assets included balanco due on mortgage securities, L 1,051,42.'!; and amount invested in other securities, L7'J,802.

A church parade of tho Victoria Rifles will bo hold to-morrow. Members are re quested to attend at tho Drill-shed at 10 a.m. sharp—for particulars sco advertise ment in this evening's issue. Tho Garrison Band aro also requested to attend at the panic timo and place.

A servico of song will be held to-morrow (Sunday) afternoon on the Hospital lawn if the weather is sufficiently line. Tho vocal part of the service will be sustained by a full choir, under the direction of Mr Hux tablo. An address will bo dolivorcd by tho Rev. T. Mackenzie Fraser, M.A., minister of St. David's Presbyterian Church, and an able lecturer on "Scripture Characters" and other subjects.

Tho Committee of the Star of Freedom Lodgo beg to remind their friends that the ball will open, as advertised in this evening's Star, on Monday evening next in tho Lorne streetllall.

Tho Eight Rev. Dr. Cowie, Bishop oi Auckland.will deliver a discourse to-morrow evening at St, Sepulchre's Church, on " Sailors' Rests."

Mr W. E. Bennett, tho Hon. Secretary of the Auckland Killo Association, will re eeivo entrance fees, members' subscriptions, and the names of those desirous of joining tho Association, from seven to half-past nine this (Saturday) evening, at Mr Hazard's shop, Queen-street.

Tho Loyal United Friends of tho Auck land District are requested to meet in the Lome-street Hall on Tuesday evening noxt, in full regalia, to colebrato their fourth anniversary, as advertised in this ovening and Monday evening's Stak. Ball at 8.30.

An advertisement in another column calls a meeting of tho.subscribers of St. Bene dict's Church, to be held in the Church building to-morrow (Sunday) aftornoon at half-past three o'clock. A full attendance is desired.

Mr R. Farrell has commenced business as shipping and fi.mily butcher in premises oppo site T. and S. Mqrrin and Co., Queen-street, and nolilles that to-night no reasonable offer will bo refused.

As a New Year present, nothing is so Buitaulo as tho Domestic Sowing Machine of Shakespcar & Co., Queen-street, opposito tho Market.—[Advt.

Art Union of 25 Prizes, value t'l32, with 2,000 members, at Is each. There arc 10 Framed Oil PiunlinL's and Water Colour Paintings) also, 100 Wilier Cplpur arid fciopiu Drawings, in six collections, by T. U. Compton, Associate Itoyal Academy, and his daughter, the late Jhs Sailor, and nrc beautiful works of art. The list is rapidly Mling; over 1,300 have been taken up, and will shortly be advertised. To secure a ticket, early application should be niado to Mr Salter, or Jlr Do Courcy, Picture Frame Depot, top of Queon.atrcct,—[Anvr.)

MINING NEWS.

[BY TULEOItAI'II.—OWN COIUiESPOSDEN'T.]

Thames, this day. Darwin.—Tho directors have instructed the manager to proceed in the sinking of a shaft, for tho purpose of opening up another level. T!>o present 160 ft. levol is considered too shallow for any important discovery, and the shaft will Srobablj be continued anothor 100 ft. Work will o commenced by wages men, the Cambria Com loaitor in the winze produced a few spocimens yesterday. The pnsent winze will enter tho Cambria ground before the depth of the pro posed new level is reached. Deep Level Citoss.—All cffortß up to yestor day evening to effect a connection between the winze and riso from tho 040 ft level have been ineffectual, but the men can hold conversation through tho thin shell of ground remaining to bo broken.

Waiomo.—A party of prospectors who are working the ground formerly held by Robert Walkman have crushed Gowt. picked quartz for a yield o£ Sons. 13dwts. gold. Cai.kudman.—Tho Rod Queen loader was Intnrscctcfl in tho cross-cut at No. 2 loS'el this morning-. It iaO inches in thickness, kind shows gold frooly, the general appearance bejng rjuile as promising at No. 1 level. ' *

CABLEGRAMS.

[KEUTKII's CABLEGRAMS.] «

(Received January 20—11.20). Anti-Euroj>ca« Outrages in Cliln:t. HONCI KONG, January 25. —News is to hand from Hoihow, a coast town on the Liew Choir peninsula, that the Chinese have assumed an anti-foreign attitude. The houses of several European rosidentshavebeen attacked and pillaged and the inmates have taken refuge in the Consu kites. Tho Chinese ollicinlsiiave taken steps to repress the outbreak and it is expected that order will soon be restored. Gordon Pasha's Mission to Cairo. Oaiko, January 2-1.-—Gordon I'aslia is now in this city, and has had a lengthened conference with Sir Evelyn Baring regard ing the state of the Soudan. Relying upon his knowledge of the districts in rebellion and his acquaintance witli tho Arab tribes, Gordon Pasha has decided to make the journey to Khartoum without an escort. Tho War in Tonquin. I'aris, January 24. —Despatches received from Admiral Courbet state that a recon naissance of Bacninh has.beon made. There is a largo number of the enemy strongly posted in the neighbourhood.

[Special to Press Association.]

London, January2s.—The "Times"this morning published the text of the Annex ation and Federation Bill.

AUSTRALIAN.

Sydnky, this day.— The Ministers' Elec tions Validating Bill was read a second time in tho Legislative Assembly yesterday. SYDNEY', January 25.--A cricket match commenced here to-day between the Aus tralian team about to proceed to England and a fifteen of New South Wales. When tho stumps were drawn for the day tho latter had scored 275 for tho loss of six wickets, Moses (not out) made 187. The Government have introduced a Bill in the Legislative Assembly for validating the seats of the Hon. G. 11.. Reid (Minister of Public Works), Mr V. B. Sntton (ex- Minister), the Hon. E. Cohen (Minister of Justice), and others, which wero declared vacant on account of informality. Meibouhnk, January 25. —Air Francis, formerly Cliiof Secretary of Victoria, who had been seriously ill for some time past, died to-day, aged 05. Market Reports. Syii.vkv, January 25.-New Zealand wheat, per bushel, is 3s Gd, New Zealand oats 3s Id, and maizo 4s 4d. The Sugar Company's No. 1 pieces, per ton, is quoted at L3L Adblaidk, January 25. Wheat remains at 4t>. Tho market is quiet and quotations are nominal. 'Flour : Town brands, LlO j country ditto, L<) to LO 2s Gd.

THE ANNUAL REGATTA.

From eight to ten o'clock this evening is the time announced for racing entries at the Waitemata Hotel.

In the twenty-feet Open Sailing Boat Race. The Dream", will be sailed by W. Farquhar, junior, Fay by Warbrick, Imp by Hunt, Observer by Waymouth, Transit by Dove. Tho Madge is not expected to arrive in time to take part.

The Regatta Committee being still un decided about tho handicapping of the schooners, the owners of the Cygnet in order to assist in overcoming what has been made a "great difficulty," havo intimated to the committee their willingness to forego the usual time allowance of ten seconds to the ton, trusting that this concession will bo considered a sufficient handicap upon that vessel. Tho gross tonnage of the Cygnet being uli tons, while the Louio registers (12 tons and the Fanny Thornton 81 tons, it will be scon that with the ordinary time allowance, she would have fully six minutes to spare from the Louie, and 4mins. 12secs. from the Fanny Thornton. With an ordinary breeze a vessel would travel a considerable distance in six minutes, so thnt tho concession is a large one, and should prove satisfactory to all parties concerned.

SCINTILLATIONS.

Fine vraatlior promised for Auckland Anniversary, The Court Minstrels open in tho Opera Hou.so to-night! Ministers meet next week to arrange for next Parliamentary session. The Governor proposes to reside a month of each year at Qiicenstown, Otago. Thamos Episcopalians arc looking after Rev. Mr Evans, of Northeote. There arc 17.75-1 cigar and tobacco factories in the United States. Lips liavo they, but they kiss not— tulips. Remark of a little girl on visiting an invalid friend—" Well, I'm sorry you're sick ; but you needn't bo cross because you are."

Tho notorious Sydney Taiwhanga means to contest a Maori constituency at next election. City Council employe's aro forbidden to " talk shop " when outside. What a good thing it would bo if everybody could bo similarly restrained ! Customs returns show a largo decrease in tho duties on wine, beor, spirits, coffee, and cocoa. On tho other hand, tobacco, tea, sugar, and apium show an increase. Noses havo they, but they smell not — pitchers, The rovenne from stamps is expected to be over tho ostimata, despite tho want c f tho Llu,ooo of legacy duty from the Costloy bequests.

The Wosloyan Conference sitting at Wellington liavo made a grant to enable Rev. Mr Gittos to travel mnong the Maoris in tlio Northern districts.

London has '1,755,G57 inhabitants.

Tho King natives propose telegraphing to Queen Victoria (hat they disapprove of tho survey of tho Maniapoto lands. Groymonth Borough Council have ac cepted tlie tender of J. M. Watson, Dun odin, 1,14, "4(i l&-',for the construction of tho Cobden Bridge. Of tho adult population of London more than one-third wcro born in tho country districts. A woman who had cohabited for 19 years with a dairyman named William Brown now sues in the Supremo Court, Wellington, to bo declared a partner in the business. During the year 18S2, 34 horses, G3 beasts and cows, l(ii! shoop, 1 donkey, 15 hounds ; were run over and killed on English rail- I ways. In tho Supreme Court, Wellington, yesterday, a .saddler named Harris re covered L,'JSO for wrongful dismissal from tho post of Wellington manager to Grcatres and Son, saddlers, Walsall, England. The question was whether eccentric and ridicubus behaviour justified dismissal. A tonrist in Otago, finding a charge in his bill for stationery, and being sure that he had ordered none, investigated tho matter, and learned that tho i' stationery " was tho ink and paper used in making out his bill. The wife of Mr P. McDonald, M.H.H., narrowly escaped death by poisoning at Duncdin yesterday. Taking a remedy for sick headache, she by mistake swallowed some strychnino mixture, but recovered under medical treatment. Hon. Mr Mjtch,elson lias promised 'to place a sum on tho Estimates lor the con struction of the railway through the Mana watu Gorge, which will form the connect ing link between the East and West Coast of tho North Island. Tho surveys are to o- 0 on at once. Wesloyan missions in New Zealand con tinuo to bo actively prosecuted. During tho last year the income has been L 2,452 G.i lOd, and tho expenditure L 2.553 17s Sd. A sum of L3OO has been bequeathed to the fund, and is payable next year. Yesterday, at a sale of merino sheep in Dnnedin, 19,000 were sold. Ewes boimht from 9s lOd to 14s Id, and wethers from^s lOd for eight tooth. The flock belonged to Mr C. E. Boyos, Kawaru Falls StatioTi. A marked diminution of population in Germany has been noticed of lato. The number decreased between Dec. h 18S0 and June (i, 18S2, from 43,234,00} to 15,213,907, At Christohurch the Supromo Court lias been engaged for live days, with an action to recover from tho Now Zealand Loan Agoncy, a largo sum of money erroneously paid to Mr Dcsborough, a former partner of Mr Crear, tho plaintiff. Tho Judge said a :'raud had been committed by Desboyouoh, aut the question was whether it waa dear » the Company that was defrauded. The nry found for plaintiff for tho sum of L 2.457 0s Id.

A new Postal Act has come into force in Victoria, by which letters weighing an. cameo may be sent to any part q{ tW colony or colonies for 2d. .formerly the charge was 2d for hut an ounce. Newspapere can now' be sent to all tlio colonies for {J, instead of Idas formerly; whilst1 aewspapers posted in bulk will only 'be charged at the rate of Id perlb,

TELEGRAMS.

(l'Kll I'KBSM ASSOCIATION.) Wellington, rliii- ilny.—A honn? Inl ..•.■;;■ in : (■• \\ Mi. .1.-.s. RUrJcn. ni I-'uMil-,* wiis destroyed by lire last night. The urigiuof t!ie lire is unknown. The building was in sured in the Royal Office for LluO, and the furniture in the same oilice for LIOO. A small portion of the furniture was saved.

Fielding, this day.—A Maori named Rahinia I'ehnrna was charged this morning with assaulting and ravishing a native woman named Ana Tura lloeta. The case was remanded.

A PECULIAR CASE.

(BY TKIiKOHAI'H.— OWy CORRESPONDENT.)

Duxewx, this day. Till': following peculiar case was heard yes terday, the plaintiff being the individual who threatened the Duned in "Star" with an action for ill,ooo for criticising his pictures at Christchurch Exhibition :—John Moat v. Jos. \V. Hobinson, claim i'l Is, for legal services rendered, Mr Gallaway appeared for plaintill', who stated thatsomc time back he was requested by defendant to conduct a Police Court case for him. The latter promised to pay for witness's services, but had never done so, and now said that he never would. The case was one of assault. Defendant stated that plaintill' agreed to take up the case on his own responsibility, and said ho could almost guarantee witness, his expenses being paid. JTc went to de fendant and asked him to take up the case on his responsibility, saying he did not want to go to any expense in the matter. His Worship: Do you mean to say you wanted him to do it for nothing? Witness: Yes, I did not want to spend any money over the case. Mr Gallaway: Are you not in the habit of going round to .solicitors' oilioes and asking them to take up cases for you, say ing that you have no money, but that you will pay subsequently? Witness : No, Mr Gallaway : Well, I should like to step into the box and give evidence about that. Plaintiff, examined by defendant, stated:—No conversation Kiich as you have described ever took place between us, nor anything that could be construed into such, llad 1 known ilionature of yourcase, I would never have touched it for any fee. I have told you, Mr Robinson, had 1 been the young woman's brother whom you sum moned for assault I would have given you a horsewhipping myself. Judgment for plaintill' for the amount claimed, with costs.

METHODIST UNION.

The Wosloyen Conference Consents,

[hy TKLECTUni—PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Wellington, this day. Tin; snbject of the Methodist Union occu pied the attention of the Wesleyan Confer ence during last night. The debate lasted four hours, and was of a most spirited character. The resolutions in favour of Union were moved by Key. Mr Bavin. Tho first resolution, that the Union Committee's report be received, and the second, express ing thankfulness that so large a proportion of quarterly meetings favoured it, were carried unanimously. On the third resolution, which committed the Conference to the general principles of the proposed Union basis, a long debate took place. Rev. J, Berry moved as an amendment: —" That, while the Union is desirable, the proposal for the present Union is premature.'' Shortly before midnight the question was put and lost. There being no further amondment the original motion was put and carried amid loud cheers by 38 to 0.

CORRESPONDENCE.

Portland Cement and Hydraulic Limo,

(To the Editor.)

Sir, —.T. Dennison, M.E., writes that tlio analysis ot .Portland cemontmadc by Mr Pond shows it to be very inferior, because it con tains pcroxideofiron.oarbnnic ami sulphuric acid, and alkalies, ingredients which he says no good cement should contain. Healsosays the sample of cement was evidently got on "questionable responsibility," Whether ho meant that we supplied a prepared sample, or whether the analyst is of doubtful re putation, we do not know. Mr Pond may put the cap on if it (its, but we decline to. MrDonnison'says further on "that hydraulic limes slake thoroughly." If he is right, then ours is not hydraulic lime, and that all eminent engineers agree that theheaviest cements are the best. We have no ex perience in Portland cement, but know how to make ground lime weigh more or less per bushel. Supposing the lime to be fairly burned, the fineness to which it is reduced will materially a fleet its weight ; if badly ground it will bo heavy, and if well ground light, or if tho limo is air-slaked before grinding it will also be light, and cost less to grind. The coal and coke merchants would scon suffer if Mr Dennison is right about the heaviest lime being the best, asallthatia required will bo to under burn the stot.e, when even Portland cement would sink into, insignificance, for a bushel of half-burned ground limo would weigh quite 1201b5., and would not,cost one fourth of tho price. Wo quite agree with Mr Dennison that no natural cement has yet been found equal in strength to Port land ; but that does not prove that none havo been found which are tit to take its place in such works a^ docks.—Wo are J.vo. Wilson & Company.

SAILOR'S HOME.

The following report of the tibovo institu tion was crowded out of last evening's issue:— Report. — His Lordship road the missionary's report, allowing that twelve months ago the Sailors' Rest and Homo was opened.— The report stated that " there has been much to encourage those directly en gaged in tlio work. Tho visible success of tho mission proves that it was required, and supplies a deep-felt need, namely, that of a Christian friend and counsellor, as well as of a room in which the men can assemble during tho dark evenings, away from the temptations of placos of amusement of doubtful benelit. The work is carried on in a variety of ways, namely :—l. By visit ing the men on board their ships when alongside the wharves, and when an opportunity can bo found for telling of God's love for all men. The deep-water vessels are visited as soon as passible after their making an anchorage, and a cheery word of welcome is spoken to the officers and men. If the vessel is likely to remain m the stream over Sunday, arrangements are made to hold Divine services on' board ■ 00 of such services having been held, at winch 1,200 seamen have been present, in some instances the whole orew attending. -'. By the Rest and Homo, on tho 30th of January, 1883, tho present rooms wore opened, and they have been so much appre ciaten that they aro altogether inadequate to the present needs of the work. l>iirin« tho year over 10,000 men have been' in at tendance ; since tho rooms wore opened i>iO have been present at Bible classes 900 at evangelistic services, 550 at temperance meeting, 2,500 at social evenings, mukin" 4,490 at tho services and meetings Tho soamen, including captains and officers have contributed over LOT to the management expenses ; and we have now a lamp over tho entrance, an excellent piano a magie-lantcrn with slides, and a K ood stock of Bibles, and a small collection ci curiosities from the Islands. 3. By the temperance movement, which has been very successful, since the OtKofilav last 30b seamen having joined; us. Of those IG6 aro able soanioa, ;)7 boys and ovd-nary sea men, :;;} apprentices, S3 cooks and stewards, -l Uavc masters' corliflcntes, 2G are officers. homo of thorn are now on our coasting and Island traders, and have increasing deposits m the bank. 4, By correspondence : Many letters having been written to Sjililovs and a good number having boon, received, from them, stating that the roomings and friends or the l.cst havp baeu oi permanent benelit, and will V,e long remembered, 5, By special work among apprentices, from who-, and troui thoir friends letters have Wen'ro coiyod of the blossing tho Kojt has been to many, and the comfort if, gives their friends to know that t« A oiv young men ar« Urns cared for v«en away from. homV' Balasok-shejst._ ; Mv Jiwiugton wad tho treasurers audited baknce-sFeot «4v,C receipts for tne year ending 9th August to be, L2lO 12s 3d,; expenditure, LIBO 0s Id leaving a balance of cash in hand L2l 3s Bd' -On the motion of Yon. Ardidoacon Maxell, tho reiiort-. and financial state ment wore adopted. '

DEAD BODY FOUND AT THE MANUKAU.

Suicide SuKpectod

Wmi.EOiJt Miootiiijj ::t tin? bhiii, Mi'S'niuui Harbour, yesterday morning, t«u men, named Ernest Neville and (ieorge Camp bell, stumbled upon the dead body of a man lying on the beach. On their return to Onehunga they gave information to the police, and by them the body was at once brought in to Odium's Manukau Hotel, where Dr. Scott made an examination. There were no external marks of violence upon it, nor any appearance of drowning, but there was a flight effusion of blood from the nose. Life had not been long extinct. The pockets were searched, and a piece of paper discovered bearing the following significant words : —" 1 am troubled about myself, and almost mad with delirium.' It seems evident, therefore, that the deceased committed suicide, and a post mortem examination is now being made. Deceased is a young man of about 25 years of age, of slight build and fair complexion, with a small light beard and moustache. In his pockets L 4 iv money and a silver watch were found (the latter having stopped at 4 minutes past 5), and by his side a small bottle containing some fluid. It will pro bably prove to bo poison. The inquest will held at Onehunga on Monday afternoon at 3 p.m. So far, the body remains uniden tified. '

SPORTING NEWS.

The following arc the names of the horses at present in Wellington undergoing their preparations for the Summer Meeting, which takes place on Friday and Saturday next : —Welcome Jack, Mischief, Leonatn, Refrigerator, Miss Juan, Salvage, Sir George, Clarence, Normanby, and Waitora. Hundreds to 33 are taken about Mischief for the Cup. At a meeting of the Committee of the Racing Club held yesterday afternoon, it WOB agreed to oiler a premium of h'fty guineas for the best design of a grand stand to bfi elected at Ellerslie capable of accommodating 2.500 people, with suitable offices for the officers of Club, luncheon room, bars, lavatories, and ladies' retiring room. Horses engaged at the Takapuna Meeting Mill be taken over at 3.30 p.m. on Monday next, 28th inst. and not Tuesday morning, as stated in the advertisement on the front page of this evening's issue. Yulia Bill lias been scratched for the Hurdle Race at the Takapuna Meeting. Our Tauranga correspondent telegraphs that the racehorses Jedwater, Bullseyo, and Welcome Davy, from To Aroha, arrived yesterday to take part in the Summer Meeting on Tuesday and Wednesday nexk [Continued in Supplement.]

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(lieforc If. G. Seth Smith, Ksq., n.M.)

Drunk.—Three persons, Os each.-Wm. Bibby. who hud recover, d from a severe fit of delirium tremeus, was lined IDs, ;md to pay 15s main tenance.

Ohscenk Language. — James McKlroy pleaded not guilty to making use of obscene laiiKiia'.re last night in Queen-street Sergeant Donnelly gave evidence of the words used at the codec stall. Words produced on paper.— Fined . Cs or H days.

A Jlilkmax.—Daniel McGeary (on warrant}, pf Kcmuera, was charged with threatening to knock George Kean down with a milking stool, and chasing him with an axe.—Mr K. Cooper appeared in defence, and asked for a remand until Wednesday.—Prisoner was manager for th:: Dairy Company.—Mr Button, for the prose cution, said tho man had been exceedingly violent, but w£is now relieved from his posi tion as manager.—Adjourned until Wednes day, prisoner admitted to bail.

Pap.extai. Sri'i'oiiT.—Charles Mack offered fjs per week towards the support of his children in the Industrial Home, which was accepted. HACCoitMICK v. North.—This caso was ad journed for a month.—Several other small cases were adjourned mil 11 Friday dext. This was all the business.

THE STRANDING OF THE DOUGLAS.

(Before If. G. Sctli Smith, E.jq , K.M., His Worship the Mayor, and Captain Fratcr, Nautical Assessor.) The inquiry into this casualty, which occurred on the Clh November at Airedalo Reef, outside Waitara, was resumed at 11 o'clock this monv hy?.—-AJr Hudson Williamson appeared for Ms- i Hill, Collector o{ Customs ; end Mr Tole fax- Capuiin Bonner. —Mr Williamson sai<\ the application was made to have the case heard .it this Court rather tlinn atTaranaki, forthci convenience of the master, and he went on to, state particulars of the accident, which it was. allegedwasthroughlhecarclcssnessofthemaster' The harbour was properly lighted, and it was n bright night, and how such an accident could have occurred under such circum- stanccs was most unaccountable. —. Thomas Hill, Collector of CusUhub, do posed that he had been instructed by tlia authorities to cause this inquiry to be held, ami he had acted accordingly.—Charles Banner,,. master mariner, was in command of the steamer Douglas in November last. She was tiadingt between Onclmnva and Wuitara. He was oajj in temporary command. He had. been mate previously. Left Onelumga on that trip on tho oth November, at 11 p.m. Crossed the bw at 3 a.m on the Clh. Passed Gaunet Island at 2 p.m., at a distance oj eight miles west. Took oross bcurings to learn the position of the vessel. Ho steered straight fov the harbour at six knots an hour. Was not ait'ected by the tides between Gaunet Island and the Waitara Heads Had but threo on board, and they took the whool ii> turns. He watched the course of the vessel down the coast. Ho was oil'and on deck all tint time. Hud a distant view of the lanu, lights red and white and if the signal hn,,l tevu bar sine, he would have went into the harbour with out a pilnt.-Mi- Cunningham sßested thi> tho depositions previously tai;ca should be rrVti over and accepted in order to save the tirae o? the Court— Mr Williamson said he wipfeedto. ask a few questions tlrst, and he wosildtheii putt hem m. Tho Court wißhed lor i?ie chart winch was handed In, Mr Tolo Intimating that the churt was not completely reliables and must bo considered with its defects. 1 he captain continued : Th,ere were several do lltsivo lights about and. ono or two bush flrea ' ■that uiKht. Could scarcely distinguish the signal lights from* tho otUeva. There ,™ 1 scarce y any wind. Ifc took the wheel sat* kept thdyeaspl B,S. \\\. to bringithe lights out When she struck ho did not Veliove that she slyucl; a rock. Ho sliced a ground swell, and she struck i^wdiately, Tho men were busy hauling dqwn soUsi did 1 not take soundings; he sm\s out heave ihl leadj tho engines stopped; three fathoms re ported ; the vessel gradually deepened; sounded, tho pumps; making IH » water; the stoani launch came out and towed the vessfliu; was tliwS I '"'A1-' 8 °. n t lho , Bhol,'° ; '"'chorcd in six fathoms off pffi-qLw*'« l aiS3a no secrets but divulged that tho veWel ha* , work a' a machinery would not (Loft Sitting,)

The Dangers of London.

■Mm Thomas Sexton, tho number for • bfyra, lately iellamoagf thieves. Thehon. gentleman, betwt-pu two and tbree o'clock on the mornicg of Nov. 10th, Was driving in a hangOffl cab in the neighbourhood cf CovootGardw. Alighting at Hart's Hotel to get a soda and brandy," ] 10 was return "ing to the vehtcle, which he had left war- Drury Lane Theatre, when he was sur- '■ rounded by six or seven ruffians. One of them hold him bj tlie neck, a s^ond placed a cloth over his mouth, others hold his arms, I while the rest of the gang x ifc<l his p ookots ; • and stole h,s watch, valued at nearly £50. One of the thieves, Jeremiah Carrol, has this week been sentenced at the MW* dieses Sessions to iifteen months1 imprison ment with hard labour. , Mr Soxton's experiences of "HorriMo' ijondon were not quite so disastrous as those of Joseph Meier, « native c f Switzer and, whose strange adventures havo been . mac o public within the larf. few days. le. cording to his own story, Mr Meicv was on ,ho M^fprtunato W!lI1 seems to h^o cite bpe V dvu^ed or to have fainted away At any mho, he States that \rlmni! ay- v V* onaiplmmnnoc i,« t i..on "° awoke to> oonsciousnesa lie found liimself on Hortfordl • SXo«Ce y ;f esr™y by'tir^fehe 1 r, h: vi r, founa lyins mouth Uoedinif, uS&ZS aMI! . hiHTinrenn >"T %V"*. lnail'S of kicks upon • "NowcnsaoChwniSi," h° P°IICC-

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR SATURDAY, JANUARY 26, 1884



Special Advertisements. TTVISEASES OF THE EYE. ARTHUR EJCHAEgSffifeROIT SPECIALISTS^]?' THE EYE. DIS E^AtSSfT JLTED AT HIS RESI atACSOK, KARANGAHAPE ROAD, From 1 to 3 in tlio afternoon ; *p On lIASLKTT'S ENGLISH PHARMACY, ISt, Queen-street, from 3 to 5, AUCKLAND GAS COMPANY (LIMITED), ESTABLISHED 1382. PURVEYORS OP LIGHT, HEAT, AND POWER. Tho Company sell and erect gas-fittings, in chiding gas apparatus and gas-power on^lncs. Stock incliuloß Otto Gas Engines.—Ofllce and Show-rooms. Fort-street. ' iyr EAT! MEAT! BEEF I MUTTON! THE NEW QUEEN-STREET SHOP is NOW OPEN (Opposite Morrin and Company). Finest Auckland-grown Beep and Mutton, Shipping and Families Supplied and Waited on for Orders. ROBERT FARRELL, SHIPPING AND FAMILY BUTCHER. N.B.—Tho Meat must bo cleared out on Saturday Night. Mo reasonable oiler re fused. - _ - R c g « Practical Machinist, Bog 3to inform tho public generally that he is now prepared to Clean, Repair, and Adjust all kinds of SEWING MACHINES moderate charges. All work guaranteed. Small Engineering Work done. Note tho Address—C. J. BIRCH, 112, Grey-st. i^HBAP AND GOOD CUTLERY. THOMAS SAMUEL, Importer of Cutlery, Has just received a good supply of all kindß of T-ABLE AND POCKET CUTLERY, Consisting of Ivory and Bono Table Knivos, Pocket Knives, Scissors and Razors, Table Knives and Forks in cases, suitablo for wedding ami complimentary presents; also, Electro-plated Ware. Siberian Forks and Spoons, specially cheap value, Sidcr •phron Forks and Spoons, having the lustre finish and ring of Sterling Silver, All the above gooda selling at very low prices. ■ THOMAS Bi - 11 UE L, 108, QUEEN-STREET, Next to Mr Weatpfahl, Bootmaker. U0 X AND SON, • DENTAL SURGEONS, | WYNDHAM-STKEET, | Beg to inform their Patients (for whoso confi dence and patronage they louder hearty tlianks) that they have token more Central Rooms over Goodson's Arcade, Queen-street (first floor, now promises of the Australian Mutual Provident Society), where thoy may be Consulted on and after Monday, January 2 W. L. MiTOHELL LAND AND COMMISSION AGENT, 8, Mercantile Chumburs, Quccn-st. FOR IMMEDIATE SALK—7-Roomcd House, Vormout-strcot. Poneonby; verandah front and back; Corner Allotment; register grates: kituhunranges. Allotment 38x105. Wry chpan. and easy terms. 2 GRAND LKVKL ALLOTMENTS in one of tho best streets off Ponsonby Road; each <10 x 105. PARNELL—Nows3llaof 6 rooms in PorUand " street • verandflßJrfroi.t and back, with con servatory, bay window, etc.; Allotment (ilir 200 • gas fittings and chandeliers in three rooms. A magnificent silo, and a substan tial bargain at only £150. PAKNELL — Corner Allotment, Leasehold; grand view of harbour which cannot bo in terrupted; ground rent only £10; can bo bought for £35. PROS! '1' (!T-STKBBfPi Ponsonby (near the Hall) ■ —Vilin oi Six Rooms; Allotment 33x100; rotrlstor grates, etc. Only £340 a small c.nMi dopusit,; the balance on easy terms. TJIIUCKXHKAJJ — Charming Now Villa, on 1 Ar.ro i>( (iroind, conunanding the finest ,-.- ncrv in Aui-.ldand; under ilvo minutes' •v:ifi; of vfharf. i'rico low; terms excop < ioually easy. • * *MOItNI"<USU)K—I -Aei-o in-ii New 7-Roomed Villa; rooms 14x11, well linishod ; spacious hull 10ft long verandah pa b.vo oito, 70ft. This Property is offtroii a great bargain, and has tlio jihfaaUum oi loud frontage oil -ivvosldc3; being neiwilnilway btatlon, and otnnibusw many times daily. Efi Til WINC T0 N, ESTATE AGENT (ESTABLISHED 18 YEARS).. TO BE LET in Hobson-stroot (opposite St. Mat thew's Clmrelu—A Largo Shop and Dwcll lng-honao; witli bakoOiouse, stable, &c. Rent low. TO HE LKT—Rood n-roomed Honsea at Rocky Nook, atl'Zspcrwcck. % . TO BK LIST, nt Kemuera, for one year certain —i'ho Furnished House and oxcoptiornlly lpvely grounds bolonging to tho lion, E, lUtcnolson. -CENTER & NOLAN. ' AD.



Special Advertisements. qi'ECIAL BANK HOLIDAY. Notice Is hereby Riven that TUESDAY, tho 29th January, being the Anniversary of the Province o£ Auckland, is appointed a SPECIAL BANK HOLIDAY at the various Ofllces of tho undersigned Banks throughout the Auckland Provincial District. For the UNION BANK OF AUSTRALIA (UMITKD)- JOSEPH PALMER, Chief Officer for New Zealand. For the HANK OF NKW SOUTH WALKS- W. G, KIIIND, Inspector. For the BANK OF AUSTRALASIA- K. W. MORRAII, Inspector. For the NATIONAL BANK OK NEW ZEA LAND (LTMITED)- DAVID HEAN, Intm. Inspector. For the COLONIAL BANK OF NKW ZEA LAXD- GKORGE COWIE, General Manager. For the BANK OF NEW ZKALAN'D- I). L. MURDOCH, General Manager. Auckland, January 21,1851. "PARTNERSHIP ADVERTISEMENT. A. K. MURKAY.I [8. S. OSBOBKS. MURRAY AND OSBORNE, 83. Queen-strket, Auckland, PUBLISHERS AND ADVERTISING CONTRACTORS, PROPRIETORS OF MURRAY'S TIME TABLE AND DIARY. AGENTS FOR Belfast Ropework Co., Limited, Belfast Corsar Bros., Canvas Manufacturers, Arbroath, Scotland Win. Barbonr and Sons, Twine and-Thread Manufacturers, Lisburn, Ireland R. S. Newall and Co., Wiro and Wire Rope Manufacturers, Gatoshcad-upon-Tyno Thos. Guest and Co., Manufacturing Confec tioners, Manchester The Manchester Climax Blind Furniture A. C.Weils and Co., Manufacturers of Patent Lamps and Oil-feeders, Manchester. mHORNTON, SMITH, AND FIttTH HAVE FOR SALE : "Crown" Flour, in sacks, 100's and 50's "Champion" do. do. do. "Cantab" do. do. do. Sharps Bran Wheat Sale of bankrupt stock, William H. Bridgman HAS PURCHASED A BANKRUPT STOCK OF DKABERY, FANCY GOODS, AND TOYS, AT A GREAT REDUCTION OFF COST, AND WILL OFFER THE WHOLE TO THE PUBLIC AT HALF USUAL PRICE. JUNCTION CHEAP DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, 283, UPPER QUEEN STREET. CUT SILVER ! CUT SILVER ! ! .„ .marvellous at night, sama (.jfget Tte.Eonds. In this line I am NOT TO Bn EQUALLED. Bracelets, Nockleta, Pins Brooches, and Earrings. F. H. LEWISSON. You all know where I am to bo found. i T ri OSGE AY E & rjO. Aro now holding a CHEAP SALE CHEAP SALE OP OP DRAPERY! CLOTHINGI D R A PEIt V ! CLOT HI N G I And submit the following .CnEAP Lines !—Ciieap Lines !—Ciieap Lines !. 1,050 Trousers and Vests, Colonial-made, at 12s Gd. 300 Don. Havard Shirts, lined backs, Is Gd each, ISO Dozen Felt Hats, 2s 6d. V 0 Boxes White Shirts 3s Gd. 20 Cases Men's Cold Molo Trousers, 5s ltd. 1:0 Scrao Suits, 21sGd. 20D Dozen Men's and Boys' Leghorn Hate, 3s Od, 300 Blue Diagonal Sac Coats, new shape, 19s Gd. AT THEIR NEW PREMISES. .T. CO SG RAVE AND CO., Opposite Wm. McArthur & Co.'s Warehouse. Just Opened, a splendid assortment of C T D R A OI E M W M T A E I O S L T N X S I N S E E S S These Goods are Tory Choice, and have been selected with great care especially for MY OWN TRADE, "Wl LLIAM JK/ATTRAY, | DRAPER, CLOTHIER, AND SILK MERCER, 178, 180, AND 183, QUEEN-STREET (four doors below the New Savings Bank), AUCKLAND. 158 & IGO PLEASE CALL Queen-Bt ,« P }f$ ,pLEASE CALL Guoen-st 15|gjeO PLEASE CALL Sueen-sfc !8&!S AND INSPECT oS-st J?f f 5 !S° AND INSPECT Qucen-st loi&lGO AND INSPECT SueeS-st 158 & ICO GRAND DISPLAY Suconit 138 & 160 GRAND DISPLAY QuSS*t 158 fc 160 GRAND DISPLAY §ueen°t loa fit 160 Oueen-Ht -158 & 160 NEW GOODS Quoen-st 158 & ICO NEW GOODS Suoen-st 158 & 160 NEW GOODS Queen-st 158 & 160 Queen-st 158 & IGO JUST OPENED, "• Queen-st 158 & 100 JUST OPENED. Queon-st 155 & 160 JUST OPENED. Quecn-at 158 & 160 Queon-st 158 & 160 Queen-st 158 & 160 Queen-st 158 & 160 61 CASES Queen-st 158 & 160 01 CASES Qucen-st l&i & IGO 64 CASES Queen-st 153 & ICO Qucen-st 168 & 160 NEW CLOTHING Queen-st 158 & 160 NEW CLOTHING Queon-st 158 & 160 NKW CLOTHING Queen-st 158 & 160 ' Queen-st I6S & 160 HATS & HOSIERY, Queen-st 158 & ICO HATS & HO3IEKY. Gueen-st 158 & 160 HATS & HOSIERY. Queea-st 158 Sc 160 Queen-st l«rsc MO Queen-st 158 & 160 « Queen-st Isi & 160 Quoen-st 158 & 160 Qaeen-st 158 & 160 THE NEW ZEALAND guafln-st 158 If, IgO Gliecii-ijt 158 KW CLOTHING FACTORY, Quoen-st 158 St 100' Queen-st 158 & 160 Queew-BTBSET, Queen-st 158 & 160 ! Queen-st 158 & ico Auckland, Queen-at 158 & 160 . Qneenrßt 158 & l/! 0 . Quoen-st 158 & 160 '""UiiFIXZSIMONS, Qiieci»-8t IHS Sc 160 Qucen-st 168 & lOC Branch Manairer. ( iiei;n-at iiKra; 5Wratc»mais6i 4iIvieion»«ireetri- -= - ■-



eu&'^Sffl?** "W. mnko an ex will uttontl, " tea o>m- A Brass Band! (Aickin's One td.il w-nB^KINQ l Jo\Vl>kli: 1 -The raJS^ftftSk&J? : Wholesal° ali