SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

ttiuw watitr JThis Evening, 8.29 HllMf WAIJSK \To-raorrow Morning, 8.01 BUNSKT.-Thls Evening. 5.51 BUNRI3K.—To-morrow Morning, 6.16 MOON'S AGE.-First Quarter. 3rd, 8.51 a.m>

ARRIVALS.

LAST EVKN'INO.

Waitaki, as., Crawford, from Whangarei

TO-DAY. Wellington, s.s., Crawford, from Tauranga Glender, s.s., Stcplienson, from Tauranga Handa Isle, schooner. Davis, from Oamaru Ruby, Echooner, Lambert, from Coromandcl Modora, achooncr, SubriUky, from MonKonui

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVKNIKO.

Macicregor, s s., Johnson, for Whangarci Amazon, barque, Norbacb, for London. Jjuticnvorth, barqne, Pearson, for London. I,'efi ince, brigantine, Johnson, for Hokianga No.val, schooner, Edwards, for Russell

IMPORTS.

Per Handa Isle, from Oamaru—3oo sacks flour, 73 sacks barley;l,Boo sacks oats, 195 sacks grass s^ed. 38 sacks oatmeal, P3l sacks whoat, 1 sacks b-irley.

EXPORTS.

Per Sybil, for Rorutu—6o bags rice, 122 cases sparkling wine. : 5 cases Geneva, 10 brandy, 1 casks rum. V> cases whisky, 20 barrels beer, 2a cases fit h, 296 tins flour, 295 rases biscuits, 100 tins flour, 2273 pieces dressed timber, 1713 pieces rough timler. 30 doors, 30 pairs sashes. 20 cases g'njer ale, and a largo quantity sundry mer chandise.

Inwards Coastwise. — Ruby, from Coro matidel. • ith baUas-; Lizttte. from Thames, with 22 COO't. timber; Medora, from Mongonui, Hfe with 17 lo.ft timber; Fawn, from Whangarei, U £ with 50 tons coa!; Olive, from Kennedy Bay, ■^ With 16 logs. Outwards Coastwise.—Olive, for Orewai Fa <vn, for Coromandel. Tho brigantino Nightingalo left Newcastle for this port on Saturday last, the 22nd tost. Mr C, Bailey was the suoce39ful tenderer for repairs to the Tongan 3chooner Sandfly. Tho _ifc work to be done inoludos caulking, &C. J$L The three-masted schooner Energy left Grey mouth for Auckland yesterday. The barque Clara E. McGillivray, whioh left Auckland on December Ith, arrived at New York on March 26th. The passage thus occu pied 116 days. The following vcssela cleared at the Customs today :—Bella Mary, barque, McDonald, for Mongonui; Sybil, schooner. Trayte, for Rurutu; St. Lawrence, barque. McKenzie, for Sydney, via Kafpam, The S.S. lonic, which was expected to Icavo Lyttelton for London to-day, has 160 passengers, of whom about 63 are saloon. She also takes a full cargo, the principal items being: 12,000 sheep, 2,503 bales wool, a quantity of cheese and butter in the refrigerator, grass seed, wheat, and sundries. The three-masted schooner Handa Isle left Oumaru on March 22nd, with light easterly winds. Passed Portland Island on Tuesday and East Cape on Wednesday; had light variable winds and calms from thence till arrival. The s.s Wellington arrived from Taurangßat ?.3O a,m., with tho following pass.-ngers:— Messrs V. Gibbs, Blotnfield. Marshall, Walters, Bofleld, P. Clarke. H. Clarke. Gilmore, Logan, Weston, Montgomery, Robinson, and Fearn. The barque St. Lawrence is expected to sail for Kaipara to sight, in charge of Captain J. McKenzie. From Kaipara she wililproceed to Sydney, in charge of Captain Cowper, late of tho AdiC. uwen. mk The s.B. Glenelg arrived from Russell and *f" Northern ports at 6.30 a.m. Passengers:—Mr and Mrs R. Tape, Mr and Mrs Dickenson. Rev. W. 'i'uepuna. Rev. Paledar, Messrs L. ChaD man, Adams, Carr, T. M. Lane, Nelson, H. Hill, Fraser, Broderick, Edmonds, Gibbs, Wolby, Nicodcmus, Boulton, McKae, and Leahy, Misses Lambly (2) and Bennett, Mcs damea F. Hill. White, and Eachmeure; also 10 in the steerage. Favoured with a light southerly wind, several yes iels which have been detained in port owing to unfavourable weather sailed outwards this morning. The barques Amazon and Luttor worth, both bound for London, got underway about 9 a.m. Some little interest is attached to theso two vessels on tho present voyage, both having got away about the same time, and through their ports of destination being the same. The Lutterworth is an iron barque of £33 tons register, while the Amazon is built of wood, and registers only 321 tons, so that she is less than one-half tho size of tho former vessel. It is fully expected that tno Lutterworth will complete tho voyage first, but still it- will be In teresting to hear the result of this long ocean race, and news ot the arrival of either vessel at London will be anxiously waited for by many.

UNION STEAMSHIP COMPANY.

The following are the movements of Union steamers for tho ensuing week:—To arrive: Tarawera, from South, Monday. 10 a.m.; Roto mahana, from Sydney, Tueßday; Hawea, from Taranaki, Tuesday, noon. To leave: Hawea, for Taranaki, Tuesday. 1 p.m.; Tarawera, for Sydney and Russell. Tuesday, 5 p.m.; Roto mahana, for Gisborne, Thursday, 1 p.m.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Whanqarei, this day.—Arrived: Maogregor, 5.8., from Auckland. Wait am, this day.— l 0 lglas, from Onchunga. WEMJNGTON.yesterday.—Arrived: Margaret Galbraiih, ship, from London. Arrived: Rebecca Crowell, - barque, Captain Crowell, from New York, 108 days; Ruoajc, barque, Captain MoGhie, from Liverpool, 112 days. Both vessels had uneventful voyages.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails will Close ab under:—

Monday, 31st inst. For Waitara, per Douglas, at 11 a.m. For Coromandel, per Coromandel, at 11. iQ a.m. For Thames, per Kotomahana. at 3.30 p.m. For Tauranga. Ohincmutu, and Opotiki, per

Glenelg, at I p.m. _ For Whitiangi and Upper Mill, per Rowena,

at 5 p.m. , ~ For Russell, Kawakawa, Wangaroa' and Mon-

gonui, per Wellington, at 5 p.m. For Whangarei Heads, Kamo, Whangarei, and Mangapai, per Waitaki. ato p.m. For Thames, per Annie Alilbank at.3.30 p.m. Tuesday, Ist April. For Waiwcra, Ka-wau, Omaha, Matakana, and Warkworth, per Kose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Hokianga, etc., per Argylo, at 11 a.m. For Taranaki and Southern Ports (and London, from Lyttelton, via Rio de Janicro and Ply mouth, per Ruapehu), per Hawea, at 11 a m. Per City of Sydney, as follows— For Sandwich Islands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. For money orders, registered letters and newspapers, at 11.30 a.m. Late letters, bearing an extra fee of six pence in addition to the postage, will be received by the Mail Agent on board tho steamer up to the time of sailing. This mail will be duo in London on Sat urday, May 10, 1851. Per Tarawera, as follows For India, China. Japan, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 3 p.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, Australian Colonies and United Kingdom, via Suez and Brindisi, or Naples, for totters, &c, specially bo prepaid and addressed, at 4 p.m. Money Orders, registered letters and news papers, at 3 p.m. Late letters for Sydney and Melbourne only at 1.20 p.m.

N.B.—The Waikato line of malls, Auckland toTe Awanratu, heretofore closed at 7.30 a.m. daily, will, in future, close at 8 a.m.

S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-office. Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

March », 1881. Abbott's Opera House—A Three Act Drama and " Irish Justice," 8 p.m. Theatre Royal—Glove Contest between Dono ran and Weatherburn, 8 p.m. V.M.C.A.—Prayer Meeting. 7.30 p.m.

Births.

KIN I' -Ou March 25, at her residence, Alex amlra-street, the wife of W. King of a son.

Marriages.

CHAMBER3-SMITH.-On March 2Tth, at the residence of the bride's father, by the Rev. Geo. A. Brown, James Gowar, youngest son of Kdward Chambers. The Villa, Sproughton, Suffolk, England, to Lizzie, second daughter of William Smith, Lindiim House, Vincent street, Auckland (late of Great Grimsby, England). Home papers please copy. GIBSON-GORDON. - Oh March 25, at the Registry Office, John Gibson, of Northumber land, to Susahah Maria, eldest daughter of the late George Gordon. McCULSKY—STRUVF.-On December sth. 1883, nt tho residence of the bride's parents. Rev. G. Herbort Watson. Rector of Trinity Church, officiating, Mr Aloxnndcr McCulsky to Helen M., daughter of the Hon H-. G. Struvo.

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 1884.

For the cause that larks assistance For the wrong that zsetfcjß resistance. For the future in tho distance, And the good that we can do.

Whkn the burden of taxation per head of, population in New Zealand is compared with the rate in other countries, as is very commonly dono, full allowance should bo made for the charges whtoh wo laid on the Colonial Treasury in New Zealand, but in England are made local charges. At the present time considerable agitation is going on in London relativo to the oxtravaganco of the London School Board. The rate levied for the current year is a fraction under cightpence in tho pound on all pro perty within the metropolitan district. Tho Board last year expended nearly a million and a-half sterling, and only £100,333 of it came from school fees, and £190,000 from grants from the Council of Education. Tho sumof£6Ss,Clo was raised out of local rates>i and a larger amount will be required in 1884. Of course there is a Vfwt work to bo done. Thero are 295,901 children on the rolls of the Board Schools, and there are 08,743 school places maintained. But it is com plained that the taxpayers have not only to teach the children of the pool', but to maintain extravagant official staffs ; a pro posal to creates superannuation fund for re tired ofiicers of the Board was only defeatod lately by a majority of two. The Board is elected eirery three years; never theless it seems impossible to keep its ex penditure under control. Other boroughs in England are charged at a higher rate for school purposes ;—a shilling in the pound being a not uncommon figure. Now, this tax, which falls directly on property, is not accounted for in the returns which are published occasionally to the disadvantage of New Zealand, where education is a cha'-gt) upon the Colonial Government

Another serious item, which in England is tnet by local taxation, but falls immediately upon the local ratepayers, is the maintenance of a system of charitable relief. The poor rate of England averages 10s 6d per head of the entire population. Then there is the expense of magistracy and police. The cost of police alone in England tn 1881-2 was £3,204,337, the greater portion of this amount being rai3ed locally ; the city of London (that is the Btnall central area) paid i' 33,653 out of local taxa tion for this purpose in 1882, besides £7,119 for the administration df justice (criminal), and £1,333 for coroh«rsr expenses—all of which are colonial charges here.

It is by no means an uncommon thing to see New Zealand quoted as tho most heavily taxed and debt-laden country on the globe; but if the local and general taxation of the country were lumped together, it is ex tremely probable that the average would bring out a very different result. At any rate, these facts should not be lost sight of. It has been tho endeavour of successive Governments to shift a portion of the general taxation on to the local bodies, and a section of the property interests are in favour of attempts to move the incidence of taxation for educational purposes from tho Colonial Government, in order to relieve the property tax. The outcry in London should ttt*t as a salutary warning. Tho relltif would only clear the way for some new extravagance by the GolOnial Parliament, while the burden of education mustalso fall on property in another way. The proportion of revenue raised directly from the wealthy of this country is a mere bagatelle compared with the share for winch they are assessed under tho national and local taxation systems of England.

The English in Egypt.

The news from Egypt by cable to-day shows that the English Government have not changed their policy, but that the Cabinet are resolved, while holding the shores of the Red Sea and maintaining the integrity of Egypt, not to in rolve the country in an expensive and protracted war in Nubia. General Graham broke up (Daman Digna'a Oimp and drove the rebels over the mountains almost without a struggle Having burned their village, the troops are returning to Souakim. Tho experiences of this brief campaign are the best vindication of the British policy. A cablegram yesterday stated that in their short march 400 men (a very large proportion of the expedition) were prostrated with the intenso heat; and after all these hardships, what has been accomplished ?—the rebels, mostly wild Arab horsemen, scamper off, to re-form, probably, in another place. Now, it is something liko 300 miles, over the mountains and by an almost impassible road, from Souakim to Berber (the nearest point on^the Nile). How could it have been supposed by the writer in the ".Herald" to-day, if he had ever looked at a map, that General Graham meant to make such a mad excursion into hostile country with his small expeditionary force, who were falling by hundreds on every day's march ? It would be a futile and senseless policy for England to waste thelivesof her troopsin the wilds of equatorial Africa for no purpose in the world except a weak pandering to jingo sentiment. The territory is worthless it has been a perpetual source of trouble to Egypt ever since it was acquired. The common-sense treatment of the whole question is that which Mr Gladstone has repeatedly declared his determination to pursue, namely, to select a strong fron tier line for Egypt, and leave these wild Nubian bands to their beloved Prophet. England has quite enough work in hand, in the re-organisation of Egypt proper. Some effort should, no doubt, be made to with draw General Gordon and any portions of the garrisons at Khartoum and Berber that remain loyal. But it is now evident enough that, despite his great experience, undoubted talent, and knowledge of the people, Gordon Pasha miscalculated the feeling of the in

habitants of the country. The garrisons are a mere handful in the midst of a hostile population ; and the subjugation of Nubia j means a new conquest. But if the Arabs j and blacks of this sultry climate want the False L'rophet, why not let them have him ? j The territory is of no use either to England ( or Egypt; and surely it has not become a ; part of British policy to argue away rcl:- I gious delusion? with cold steel. To nutit:- j tain that England has any duty in entering ! upon this arduous and futile war. in which j our troops will die like llies from heat and j pestilence, is absurd. It will be as easy to deal with El Mahdi as rt'itli Odinan Digna when he comes within striking distance ; and meanwhile it is the business of the British army of occupation to make adequate provision for the protection of Egypt proper, as far as it may be considered worth preserving.

Death of Prince Leopold.

Tui; youngest son of Queen Victoria- Leopold George Duncan Albert, Duke of Albany—haß died suddenly while residing at Cannes. Thors is nothing startling in the news, for the prince, who had just completed his 31st year, was never of sound constitution ; but the sudden nature of his end will bring homo with fresh force the old truth that "Pale- Death with equal foot strikes wide the door of lowly halls and cottngc of the poor." Prince Leopold was only recently married, having espoused Princess Hfilene of Waldeck-l'yrmonton 2?th April, liS2, and of this marriage one child Was born in February of last year. Of political or national significance there is absolutely mine in iiis death. What has happened is that a prominent personage has boon called hence, and those near and ','cai1 to him are bereft and suffer thii common lot of more obscure humanity. Neverthe less, the v.'oi'thy and widowed Lady who *its on the Throne of England will, because of this sad and sudden bereavement, have the heartfelt sympathy of millions In every sphere of life, and in ever,V quarter of the globe; not irt any inferior degree, we arc sure-, from the colonists of these happy islands in the Southern Seas who enjoy the blessings of her beneficent reign,

miraculous,

A number of electors of South Ward waited upon Mr John Waymouth, ono of the oldest residents in the ward, and asked him to become a candidate for tho repre sentation of the ward in the placo of Mr Offer, resigned. After consideration Mr Waymculh oonsented, and will bo nominated at once. His knowledge of accounts will, it is believed, be of great valun to the Coun cil in dealing with linp.nclal questions.

With reference to tho question of the legality of nominating candidates for c:.ty wards in a place outside of tho particular ward, we learn that there is a protty general consensus of interpretation of the rending of the Acton the subject. Mr I', A. Philips, Town Clerk, having wired to Wellington and Christohurcli requesting to bo informed of tho practice in tho?o cities, has received a reply stating that candidate? for the Council are invariably nominated at the Cor poration ollices, which arc, of course, situ ated in one of the wards.

Wo learn from tho I (ospltal to-day Unit Mrs Grannity, who fell from tho uj>per story Window of a boarding - house in Albert-street, is still in a very precarious condition,

A horoo strayed Into the Albert Park enclosure on Wednesday, and in getting out again broke down a whole panel of tho iron railings. This will l>» <•.:: expensive freak for soina one. it is time some more stringent l'fegulations were adopted or psjlialties imposed with respect to wander ing cattlo and horses. It pays the owners to meet tho paltry fines of from ono to tivo shillings in order to grafts th<Sfr Cattle on ',;ho streets) always provided they do even par tho lines inflicted, for there is some doubt on that head at present. Not a day passes on which horses can not be found depasturing in the streets.

Tho change in the class of country in tho Prinoi) Imperial shaft reported by our Thames correspondent is a matter of con siderable importance, The dhoti !ia« hitherto penetrated hard black, reck; \Vhich seemed likely to cont'mm io tho bottom of the pttrfont ""(Ft ' of DO feet; but now a uteo iSlritlstono—tho most favourable class for gold-bearing reefs —ha? appeared in the northern compartment. There are about 50 feet to be sunk before the new level is opened, and from tho prospecti! carried down in tho winzo clreu'ty Mink, thero is every lilmKhvod W profitable blocks being de\T>cjr<rci.

Another evidence of tho power of adver tising has just been brought under 6nV notice The other p*"c'\ln», a small an nouncement appeared in tho Staii to the effect, that there was a house to let on the Kefr North Road. Houso accommodation, wo know, is scarce in the city and neigh bourhood, as a. rule ; but considering that we daily publish a dozen or ho advertise ments of this nature, it might have been supposed that houses were rather plentiful at the present juncture. A gentleman who BttW the notice in question made appli cation the following morning, but was told that the house was already let, and that he wns the thirteenth unsuccessful nppllhant who had appeared Within two hour.". Doubtless muny tnore applied b'efbro tho elMe of the day ( but their experiences aro not part of this record;

A..correspondent, styling himself "Citi zen;" wrttes ns follows upropo." of the Uhj>iiarded state of tiie Wharf :—" Many years ago, when the Queen-street Wharf was first extended, one of our old identities moved, on two or three occasions, that port able iron posts and chains should be placed along the edge where the spaces were not required for the use of vessels discharg ing, but it was always met by some excuse that it would be so much troublo and ex pense. Many lives havo been lost since then, and helploss families ca<3t upon the charity of the benevolent in consequence, but still the wharf remains as before. Aro we waiting for a member of tho BOard or one of tho 'hupper chist' to be drowned' before.anything is done? It looks very like it."

i A cleveriy : i3xe£u,te i d rJoil {Ihd ink sketch by l&i L, C. 11. Brinkrdpfl of a view on the north coast of one of the Shetland Isles is now on exhibition in the shop window of Messrs Charriptaloup and Cooper's establish ment. It is a clear and natural sketch, limned with a free hand, and elaborated with so'rrkc care. Thorb is an expanse of water in tho immediate foreground, with a full-rigged ship riding upon it under tho 100 of a small island of irregular shape and full of jagged peaks. This island is flanked by rugged promontories, and there aro several craft sailing upon the intervening waters. The clolid effects aro a trifle too fixed and stiff. Generally, however, tho picture is a very good one.

If the Ponsonby negattd of TBB4 is to prove successful; or If if la to take place at all i* r/OUld be well were tho Committee generally to display a little more interest in the very necessary task of preparation. If the work ia all left In the hands of one or two, it cannot be expected that great re sults will be achieved, and unfortunately it does at presbnt appear that the majority of members are not by any means proving themselves energetic or useful. A Com mittee meeting is called for this evening and as the Business to bo transacted requires tho attention of all members, it is t'ery desirable that there should bo a large attendance. As little more than a fort night is to elapse before tho day of the re gatta, very little timo remains to make preparation, and it devolves upon all who have accepted office under the Club to do their Utmost to give the mattor immodiate attention, and so make the regatta as it has been in previous years, a success.

We have been at the trouble of making Borne inquiries with respect to Superinten dent Hughes's statement at the Fire Brigade meeting on Wednesday night, that the Brigade was not under pay until the Brigade bell in Albert-street rang. It seemed harbly credible that it should be so, .and we find the real facts to be that the Brigade receive an annual salary from the City Council, ordinary mem bers getting £8 per annum, and fore men £10 per annum, together with allow ances for uniform, helmets, and boots, so that the Superintendent's assertion is quite incorrect. The members of the Brigade are in the regular pay of the Corporation, and it is their clear duty to promptly re spond to a summons rung out upon any tirebellin the city. They have an extra ecale of remuneration for their services while engaged upon active duty, viz., 2s 6d for the first hour, Is 6d for the second hour, and Is perhourforall subsequent hours, and by an arrangement of their own, they count the first hour from the time at which the Brigade bell begins to toll. The Obuncil, however, recognise no such regulation, but look to the Brigade to muster with alert ness upon the firet notes of an alarm boing sounded. It must be manifest that no other, arrangement can give satisfaction. '

The Devonport Naval Brigade, which was organised some three months ago, met at the J)cvonport Hall on Thursday evening. During tho cessation or stand easy, Lieut. C. F. .fames tendered his resignation as lieutenant with regret. Mr A. V. Bennett was unanimously elected cajitain. Mr W. H. Fenton was proposed and unanimously elected lieutenant. Mr C. F. James was then elected honorary member of tho corps for life. The matter of uniforms was then gone into, and it was determined to havo the uniforms made in the colony in prefer onco to sending Hjmo fort.em,

To the Editor: Sir,—Allow me to give the ino,t emphatic denial to tho statements of

" Anjjlicus" in your issue of Thursday even ing as regards tho distribution of seats throughout the church for,the use of the poo;-. If they exist they are unknown, and sc far from their interests being carefully guarded "by tho lenders of the church of the present day," they are tjtally dis regarded : they do not even find accommo dation for their own members, who, through eupincners or stupidity, are being driven to other denominations. As to his charge of ignorance or misrepresentation, I can only say that one or the other of the groesert kind must havo prompted him to pen the letter.—l am, &c, A Member of THE CIII'RCII OF EsULAXD,

In proposing his motion at the City Council meeting on Thursday night, for an inquiry into the present system of checking Corporation accounts, Coun cillor Devore condemned in strong terms the loose method, or, rather want of method, which had .obtained in the past. In doing ;o hi rflflntio'icd the singular fa^t tJiftt 111 Wilson's carting contract every monthly balance for ten consecutive months was incorrect, the payments in each instance being either crer or below the proper amount. 1 he total of the Under payment" ".mcT.iltfeu to .fcSb 0s Hid, and the ttjtal of the over-payments to £75 8s Id, so that there was a balance of £10 12s lOd due to the contractor. Of course, theso were the mistakes of the if>t<) Gls.v^ of Works, but it tt-aa singular that they should have becii left for""the Legal Com mittee to discover. He did not intend to impute blame to any officer, but he invited the serious attention of the Council to the blunders existing in these accounts. It was high time that something was done to put an end to this system of blundering, and possibly of plundering. The remedy was a very simple one, and he trusted that tho Finance Committee would suggest it. Cr. La Roche seconded the motion \ifo forma, and it was carried after some further ex pression of opinion.

A meeting, mostly of young men, of Now market and Kemuora was hold last evening in tho Newmarket Methodist Chapel for tho purpose of formiiiK rt YOiljljJ Men's Mutual Improvement Society. Several good speeches were made by the Chairman and persons present on tho desirability and advantages of such a local institution. The following members woro then eloctod to olficc Rev. (!. B. Moiiro ; Vice-l'roaidonlK, Messrs Keotley and Blackmail ; Secretary, Mr Stalnton; Treasurer, &tr Mark Lftybournst Com mittee, Mc.-n'r Brook, A. Laybourno, and White. The mooting was then adjourned until Friday evening next) when tho i-tiles will be nnlllnlttotl nttd thb programme for the IUSt st-ssioil introduced;

Thcannilili mooting t'f tile iUbeH foot ball Ulub wt» iiiiltl lift! u'vbning in the Club room of tho United Sorvico Hotel. MrO. Smart occupied tho chair, Tho business consisted of tho reading of tho roport find balance-sheet for lust season, which wcro of a satisfactory character, the funds being in a flourishing condition. The following ollicors wcro elected for theonsuing season: —lYiwident, Mr>T. Miller) Vlco-I'rceidents, Messrs W. Johnson and W. Smart; Cap tain, Mr D, Stewart ; Secretary and Trea surer, Mr ti. Smart; Committee, Messrs I)owar, Miller, Ridings, Dank?, arid llard wick, it was decided to join the Associa tion if tho other junior clubs were agreeable to dp SO, end, to.somi ft twin; to tho Thames on QuccVn Birthday (May 24th}. A Vote of thanks to the Chairman brought the meet ing to a close.

This morning's "Thames Advertiser" says: —A child about four years of ago, son of Mr \V, Robinson, of Upper Albert-street, narrowly escaped a frightful death on Wed nesday evening. Ho was playing with several olhoi1 bhildreil oh th<3 'i'olgjit over looking fii-oJinhisLowii, and losing his billanoo rolled down tho procipitous hill side. Tho spectators hold their breath in suspense, not expecting to sco him taken up nlivo. After rolling a distance of 120 feet, he landed by the roadside, and when picked up blood was issuing from hi.i mouth, and f-fal consequences appeared probable. Dr Jan, however, examined the boy, and ijlind that no bones had been broken, though tho littlo patient will not easily recover the effect* of his full. A large gash was inflicted on his tetnnJßj.jJnd o.f.olhet' on the ei'ovn of t!!e head, iho escape from instant death was little less than

Tho second meeting of tho Otahuhu As sociation wa» held in tho Churchof England School-room on Tuesday, March 18th. There was a good attendance of members, the President in the chair. Tho business of tho evening consisted of tho President's (Mr S. Luke) inaugural addrcsw, which wan an excellent ono | Mr J. Box's recitation, " John Gilpln;" JlrJohti Fairbtirn's read ing, " A Dissertation1 d« rt Rbrifit Pig," by "Elia;" anil Sir Llppiat's lecture on "Trial by Jury." The next meeting of the AWoiiiiiUriH V.-m.l)ts Iffld "r* Mutch Blot, when a debate will Like place on fho question of Federation—" That the Fodora tion schemo propounded by Sir Goorgo Grey on the 29th January, 1884, is preforable to tho proposal made by Sir F. Whitakcr in his public speech." Mr Caroy Brown takes the af'lrmßtive, Mr .Ins. Mtiir tho netcative.

A brief special sitting of tho R.M. Court «as held yesterday by MrH. G. Seth Smith for the purpose of hearing tho defendant's evidence in the case of Edward McLeary v. W. S. Fagan, which has beon instituted at Christchurch fsr recovering the sum of £24 10s, alleged to have been money lent. Mr Griffiths appeared for the defendant, who deposed that In April, 1882, he made a tour of the colony a» a professional pedestrittn, and that) In passing through Christchureii tin h.'s tttiy t? Diinedin to engage in a running iiiiitcb; the plaintiff backed him to the extent of £10, and also gave Him a further sum of £10 to lay off in wagers, He lost the race, and of courso, plaintiff's money was aho lost. Sincb then hs had written frequently to defendant, asserting that he had sold the race, and threatening to make it " hot" for him. Ho had lost it fairly, however, and owed the plaintiff nothing. This concluded tho evidence, which will now bo forwarded to Christchurch.

On Tuesday evening last, the annual meeting of Papakura Presbyterian con gregations was heldj Rev. T. Norrio pre siding. The meeting having been openod with prayer, the annual financial report was submitted as follows i—Sustenation Fund: Ordinary collections, £25 lls 5d ; subscriptions and coat rente, £34 i total, €59 lls 6d ; special collections for church schemes, £2 8s 3d ; collected by Miss Ellen Jane Walter for Dayspring Fund, £1 6's Gd ; Sabbath-school Fund, £2 7s 6d; Building Fund, £14 19s 2di total, £81 12a lid ; report from Papakura Valley and Brookby, £7 16s 9d : grand total, £89 9s Bd. The Sabbath School was reported to be in a healthy condition. Thanks were accorded to the various officers of tho churoh and school, as well as to those who assisted in the musical depart ment. It was agreed gradually to adopt the new book of " Church Praise " in the service of song. The following gontlemcn were appointed tho committee for tho en suing year ; — Messrs J. B. Young, R. White, A. McNeil, Jamos Walker, J. Black, F. McClymont (Secretary), and S. Fallwell (Treasurer). Sub-committee for Papakura Valley and Brookby : Messrs J. Muir, S. H. Reid, E. Elsmoro, J. Murchieon, and W. Lloyd,

The fortnightly meeting of the City Schools Committee was held last even ing, when there were present:—Messrs B. Carr (Chairman), Crowther, Hannan, Billington, and Shaldors. The business brought forward for consideration was of an exceptionally unimportant character. An ap plication from Mr Reid for leave for his boys to retire from school at 3.30 p.m. daily was referred to the Head-master of Beres ford-street. Miss Moreton, teacher of the Kindergarten system, wrote stating that circumstances had arisen which neces sitated the resignation of her position under the Board. She would _ still be pleased to give any advice or infor mation to aid the working of the Kindergarten system of education in view of its continuance. She took tho opportunity of thanking tho Committee for their interest in and their warm support of her Kindergarten system. The resignation was accepted with thanks for offer of con tinued assistance, and she was requested to continue until her successor was appointed. Mr Wilson, a recent arrival from Scotland, applied that his daughter, aged fifteen, might bo admitted to Beresford-street School. Tho request wusgranted. The at tention of the Board was drawn to the un safe stalo of Uio playground at the Nelson street School. This was all the bußinesß,

Cr. Laßochehas given notice that he will move at the next meeting of the City Coun cil—" That in view of the present drain in Seaiield View being choked and unfit for use, the drainage works ordered by the Council on February 14th, 1884, be made urgent."

Mr H. H. Smith has made arrangements to give n series of panoramic exhibitions in tho" suburban districts during next week and tho week following. On Tuesday he will appear in Karangahapo; on Friday and Saturday at Ponsonby; on Monday week at Mount Eden j and on Tuesday week at Newmarket. The views will be the name as those exhibited in the Opera House, with a few recent additions.

At a meeting of (shareholders in tho Potter Wool-Scouring Company held yesterday afternoon, tho Chairman explained that steps had been taken to exhibit the machine in Auckland and ChrUtchurch. Great di;satisfaction was expressed at the manner in which Mr Potter had managed the Com pany'g business in Chrietchuroh, We stated recently that the ketch Wild Duck had been purchased by n number of Thames residents, who Ihteridfid tn ntnrt on on island cruise. Since that time tho ketch has undergone a general overhaul at the Thaff.SS; «nd has been suitably fitted np for a lengthy voyage. The crtiise, which, we understand, is "of a speculative character, has been undertaken by Messrs Gibbons, lerson, Kowe, and Lawlor. They propose to proceed to Brisbane, where requisites will be laid In, and thence to Torres Straits, circumnavigating New Guinea, and trading wherever a» opening; ie found, also keeping an dyC Oil the probabiliticc of gold dis coveries.

It will have been noticed from our report of the City Council proceedings on Thurs day ni«ht that Mr .t. Lawrence, Whose pro perly adjoins tho nightsoii depot at Point Chevalier, has given notice through his solicitor (Mr S. Rochfort) of his intention to sue the Council and the Hon. P. Dignan (owner of the. denflt). for £'-*00 daiiiftgiis in respect of the injury and annoyance caused him by their creation of a nuisance. The Council have paid no attention to the threat.

In an article which appeared in Thursday's issue upon " Workmen's Rings in Sweden," the sense of one sentence was obscured by the misprinting of a word, viz., " The under taking is a highly ambitious ono, and map be regarded in the light of a sound experi ment." "Sound" should havo read ".social," which considerably alters the moaningi

Tho Wnverley license case, iri which Daniel Afksil *as charged with supplying winp in a building known as Powell's Dining llooms, tlio same being unlicensed,' wan nrpiied at the raHtfo Court today before Judge Smith. (Mr Cotter In defoiicie, and Mr Hoskolh for the informant.) Tho public is already familiar with the particu lars. Mr Cotter submitted that tho Waver ley license and temporary transfer were valid ; that defendant had acted boiiti fide in the matter, and tli.it (ho Mayor and Councillors wcro upon the register as tho owners of the license under certain sections of the Act. Mr Hcsketh having replied nt somo lontfth, [[is Worship reserved judg ment,

The prisoners, Thomas and Kobccca Ward) ware brought up this morning on two charges of robbery df tlrnpxiry goods, and roiilaiidHl; as rtbtiu>.iW'M'>fe sitaildr liireeni&s ai ollior city araporf slotes na^eoScfi )>tt peh»t6d; The tirisdners woro arrested oy Constable White, and not by Constable HobHon, as orroneoii»ly stated in our last issue. Mr Brassey, solicitor for tho prisoners, indicated tho possiblity of pro vine the prisoners' innocence. This might be partly true, but in tho caso of stealing from Mr Hanunn, that gentleman saw tho female prisoner cut tho string of tho gooda at his door and carry them away, and she wns detected by his assistant with tho singlets ulidflr ht'r arm. It appears there is an organised gang of thievesin tlil3 dtyi and numerous robberies have been com mitted which may be brought to light.

Thb r"*?1* of *Mo roung man William Skclly, who will stantl fiis fcriel at the criminal sessions of the Siiprbme Cqiirt nc:H week on a charge of larceny fls a bailee, is pingtilarly gdd and distressing. He is the yonngst son of d gentleman who was a largo runholtler in the South some years ago, and who subsequently retired to Eng land to enjoy his well-earned competency. Tho brothers of the accused occupy very rcaponßiblo positions, and ho himself held a place of considerable trust in a town in the Middle Island; His fathor and mother, it is said, are now on the way out to the colony on a visit. The young man is charged with having misappropriated a money order telegram givon to him by a Maori for tho purpose of being cashed. His counsel, Mr Kapler, made a strong effort at tho Police Court to prevent a committal, and raised sore laW questions which were considered i>( fl'ioii iiflpdrtSncc'. that Mr Mnguiro (tho Justice) reserved hie decision for a week. The Magistrate, however, de clined to take tho rosponibillty of deciding purely legal points, and committed tho ac cused. Skelly will also bo defonded in the Supreme Conrt by Mr Napier.

To the Editor : Sir,—ln answer to a local which appeared in Thursday's Stau, I beg to inform you that I arrived in town yester day, but I was too lato to sco my son, ns ho 'was colllned. Had myself or husband kßowii of tho death of our son sooner, we would ha?p looked after his burial. As to his being discarded by tits rolntiYto, it is a gross falsohood, aa lib'no of hifl rolatlvcs aware of hid being in to^rri, not of his V.'licicn.Jdutc; ill! Iwo. h'sattl of Ms death on Tuesday. His h'rothnf is sift fti*«ttM,rind scarcely able to look after himself. It is aIKO wrong to say that he is a eumdiggcr by profession ; he only occasionally worked at it. Ho is a bootmaker by trade, and his ago is 48, not 40, as stated. It i« also wrong to say thai ho was desti tute, fclr he has gum and other tools in his hut at Taupaki, arid bat always been able to get credit from Mr RuSsell, with whom ho has been dealing for the last two ydaf(i, and he had plenty of friends in town, to anjl df whom ho could have applied, if he was destitute. I hope that in justice to mysolf and other members of my family you will publish this explanation.—Yours, &c, Eixen Condon Gibbons, Panmure.

At the Board of Education yesterday Mr Moite mofed, '"fhat there bo added to the ariniiJtl fep'6tt, $or IS?S3 an estimate of tho value of the etiaook, dwtlllng-hoiises, fit tinge, and other property Owndd by fcho Board on the 31st Docember, ISS3. The motion was carried. The Otahuhu School Committee objected to the removal of Mr SumneT, assistant teacher, to Churchill School. It Svrts i'esoh'ed that inquiry be made with reference to Mr Stunner's own views upon tho proposed promotion to Churchill. Mr Bhckland said before leaving he wished to say that he parted from his fellow-workers with much regret, tie had all along felt a warm and growing interest in the cause of education, but ho could not feel much surprised at not boing re-elected, as Mr Moat was an old and esteemed mem ber of tho Board, and he might bo said to have filled Mr Moat's seat during his tem porary absence. He should still take an interest In tho cause, and hoped In January next to bo re seated. The Chairman joinod with the members of the Board in expres sing rogret at tho loss of Mr Buck land. He had always done his duty fearlessly and honestly. Mr Luke moved, Mr Moss seconded, and it was carried, "That the best thanks of the Board be given to Mr Buckland for his past services in connection with education." With re ference to the charges preferred by Messrs A. Kay and H. Edwards against Mr Nichol son, schoolmaster at Kinikihi, it was re solved to ask for a formal statement of the charges, and to hold an inquiry into them.

To tho Editor: Sir,—Your correspondent, " Devonport," in last evening^ issue, as sumes too much in saying that"*" consider able dissatisfaction exists just now among the residents at the want of punctuality of the ferry steamers," and casts a most unmerited slur upon an extremely civil and obliging sot of men. As a permanent resident and a constant tra veller to and fro, I can tell him that not only is there no dissatisfaction, but that, with the exception of one or two chronic growlers, the residents have a very high opinion of the painstaking manner in which tho captains of these steamers discharge their duties, and this result is achieved without any such wholesale departure from the time-table as " Devonport" would have us infer. Assuming Mb account of the delay on Thursday evoning to be correct (though there is an exaggerated ring about it), the master had no doubt good reason for his action, as such an occurrence is most unusual. I doubt very much whether your correspondent has any real claim to tho signaturo over which he writes. If he had, he would in the first place have known better what ho was writing about; and in the second, as a North Shore resi dent, he would have had more self respect than to wish to be in a "oertain portion" of the town at 9.30. In conclusion, let me advise " Devonport" if he has a grievance, real or fancied, at any future time against the Ferry Company, to mention same to their indefatigable traffic manager, from whom it will receive cour teous attention, and, if the complaint is well-grounded, will be promptly remedied. —I am, &c, Noeth Shobb.

Mr D. G. Macdonald received the follow ing! telegram from the now Prince Imperial mine manager to-day.—" Banked from hundred and seventy-nine ounces retorted gold."

The Pntea Boiling Down Company havo instituted an action for the recovery of £2,000 damages from the Minister of Public Works in respect of injury done them through the construction of tho Foxton and New Plymouth Railway. At the usual Banco sitting in tho Supreme Court on Wednesday next, Mr James Russell will apply for further time on behalf of tho claimant.

An entertainment in connection with St. David'B Sunday School will tako place in St. Sepulchre's school-room on Wednesday next, Mr Boak (gold and silver medallist in olocution) will take part in it. Adver tisement in another column.

Tho following entries have bnen received for the Takapuna Autumn Meeting, Hi addition to thoso whicli appear on His fourth page :—Flat tolling Knee : Mick, Wizard, Annie, Golden Grape. Selling Hurdles I Pearl. Stewards' Plate: Apoiogy. Tito inquest on the body of the lad Wiliiatil Breon, Tho Tt-as drowned by falling from the Queen street Wharf, re-i'Hetl in a Tordiet of " Accidentally drowned," frith a rider to tb« effect that it was desirable chains and stauchiott? should be put up at night along the sides of tho wharf as a protection to the public.

The monthly meeting of directors of tho New Zealand Tobacco Growing and Manu facturing Company was held ldta yesterday afternoon, Mr C. B. Stone, Chairman, presiding. The Chairman reported having leased for five years Henderson and Macfar -1 me's store on1 Beach Road, and contractshad been entered into for converting this into a tobflceo factory. It was reported by Mr A, Volibracbtj working manager, that tho factory would start on Monday week. Cigars and .cigarettes will then be made from tho tobacco grown by Mr Mason at t'ttrncll HuMorf, which took the first prize at the Horticultural Show, a? Well as from the large stock of cured leaf on hand. Additional machinery, costing i'COO, for tho manufacture of tho various descriptions of tobacco is to be ordered by tho outgoing mail on Tuesday next. A number of fresh applications for seed for next season had been received, and tho reports from growers were of a natisfactory kind.

The newly • appointed missionary, the Hoy. T llolford Plant, who goc» to t«ko up Mr Penny's labours in Melanesia, will preach at the 11 o'clock service to-morrow morning in ht. Mattiiivv's Ch-.'rch. Mr Plant, who has on y rcoulitiy Hi'rlved from Kngland, was until lately at BreretOD, Stnfl'ordshirc, in the Lkhfield (the late llishop Sclwyn'6) Uioccso. He leaves almost at onco in the Southern Cross for Norfolk Island to'begin his work in the mission field Many will doubtless moot to welcome him and tf isito Him C'od'spowl in his newtphcreof labour. In the oretilttK the Incumbent .will treat the concluding petitions of ihuLord 8 prayer, with especial reference to the new rewderinK of the last clause, "Deliver us from the >.vJI Onu. This course has been most attentively listened to by large congregations.

A Wis-!-; f)B.vcOS*.—" lJ^acon Wilder. I want you 10 tell me how you kcDtyonrrelf nnd family so well the past season, when all tho tost of ue have hden aiok so much, and ljive had the doc tors running to us so often." " Brother Taylor, t.ho nnswor U very easy. I lined Hop Hitlers in time, ami kuut my family well. and.saved larKe doctor'B billsl KoUr shilling' worth of it keeps Us nil well and able to work «11 'he time, and I *ill wnrrant it has cost you and moat of the neighbours £20 to £100 apiece to keep sick the S;il/io time, I fancy yotfll take my medicine hereafter." S6o.

Be*i y-oßfamme in another part of paper of Arthur iUlci'i Aft tinkfrti noncmt, and ball, to be lieid io thu Lorno-atreot liaii, 6"S I'fosday evcnhiß. April Ist, 1881. Frontseats. 2s, will re celvo three Art Union tickets; remainder of hall, 2s, will receive two Art Union Ifcke's. Remember! Thirty-three water-colour paint luifs in linn'dgomofrutueß.—[Advt.J

Announcement* of Sunday services will ho found on page three. Special sermons by Kcv. G. M. Nelson, M. A., at St. Paul s—morn injf, "ABainst Gluttony;" evening, "The Character of Pilate." Hospital lawn, in the Bf'urnoon, "The Ministry of Flowers," Rev. W. 3. r<Jttcr and choir, the latter conducted br Mr Frith. Pitt -street Wcsleyan : Rev. A. Reid, "The Millennium. Special sermons at Alex andra-street. See advertisement.

We understand that tho "At Home "to bB Rivpn at Ilovonport Hall to commemorate the irtstaHatioM of ofl'icers of Lodße Albion is lit'ely to tirord a (treat aucoeas. Already more than half tHe niiiribor required have sent in their names, and we thottid rtdvlse thoso who wish to 6perfd tin onioj-nblo fctenina to apply to tlic Committee nt once fortickois.as ihs number islimitod.

Bicycles, unequalled for finish, price atid quality, at Shakespear & Cos. (opposite he Market), Quccn-fltroflt.— [Ajjvt.l

Contracts taken for all kinds of concrete work larßO or small, and estimates and other information givingt 6 those wiating to no tn«tr own wbrk.—John Wilson and Co., 75, Queen street.-[ADVT

SCINTILLATIONS.

A Vakb Fowl—A weathercock. The lirst person singular—Adam. It ia proposed to prospect Palmerston District for gold. St. Patrick n-rfivifun in tbo Opera House to-nigllt. The export of horses from New Zealand to Australia continues. The Governor is to visit Thames on tho lird April noxt. Hops have been very succeesfuly grown in Wanganui district. When is a scheme like the third of a yard ? —When it's a foot. Always pointed and with one eyo to busi ness—A needlo. . The price of frozen meat m London i*au- A splondid route for tho North Island trunk lino lias been found n'rt Mokau. Tho Comio Opera Company had packed houses ftvety night at Napior. The season closed !«St iiikht. A Thames KCtcli rtsrts t,t»-<lay on a trading expedition to New Guinea, Hon. MrMitchcfcon was at Napier yester- Church of England1 cemetery to bo con secrated this afternoon at Tuuranga. It is proposed to form a Young Women's Christian Association in Auckland. Tho Obinomuri petition for separation fttftii Thnmos County has been signed by two-thirdo of tho ratepayers. TitokowtfrS; *ith 200 natives, unsuccess fully attempted both y«>st»rday and Thurs day to visit Parihaka. Mr Finn, a Gisborne lawyer, has got damages from his servant girl and her "young man"' foT having a spree in his parlour during his absence St. Petersburg and other Russian cities ai'o now supplied with frozen meat from the intSrioft The ''Bcljtri Plenty Times" denies the soft impeachment that Sydney Taiwhanga was their special regatta reporter. ', Hamilton Borough Council prapoß<) to borrow £4(50 to secure a Town Hall and Public Library. Jurors have to assemble at the Supremo Court noxt Wednesday, 2nd April, and not on Tuesday, the Ist. About 3,000 steamers pass through the Suez Canal yearly, and tho gross revenue of tho Canal Company is £&,000,000. At Napior yesterday, Hon. Mr Mitchel son promised to see whether the recoiving and delivery charges on wool carried on tho railway could not bo remitted. In minor matters he said tho new tariff was open to revision.

"Sir," wrote a tailor to a debtor, "If you will favour me with the amount of my bill, you will' oblige me; if not, I must oblige you." Mr John Chambers has had freezing machinery constructed in London on a new principle, which, it is claimed, will only re quire one-sixth of tho coal now used, and will reduce the cost of sending frozen meat from hero to London by Id a pound.

VVanganui Dairy Factory is a brick build inc, cost £1,500, and is conducted on paying principles. Milk is boing sup plied from 130 cow«, the average daily supply boing 207 gallons. It is calculated that each gallon of milk yields 11 lbs of cheese.

The precise weight of tho ounco was fixed by Henry 111., who decreed thatit should be 640 dry grains of wheat, that twelve of these ounces should be a pound, and that eight pounds should be a gallon of wine. The annual prize-firing of Wanganui Rifle Association took place yesterday, when the cup was won by Lieut. Purneil, City Rifles. Churton, the champion of tho colony, was fourth on the list. How enviable (says a contemporary) is the case of the Selwyn constituency, which will have had four eloctions for the House of Representatives in four years. In 18S2 it elected Sir John Hall, in 1883 it elected Mi- Leo, in 1884 it has just elected Mr Wake field, and in 1885 it will elect the Lord knows whom.

The European residents of Opunake still talk of inviting the Parihaka Maoris under Te Whiti to a feast. Substantial promises of bread, beef, and beer—the three B's — have been made.

A considerable quantity of Canterbury wheat crop this year haa been damaged in the field, and will be of little use.for milling purposes. This is the reason why business is at a standstill, and no loading going on at Lyttelton, "buyers having noconfidence. Here is a usoful recipe for the approaching winter, viz , how to render boots and shoes waterproof. If they are soaked in thick soap-water for several hours a fatty acid is formed in tho leather by the soap. This renders the leather completely impervious to water.

CABLEGRAMS.

BY CABLE.-COPYRIGHT.]

[METER'S TELKGKAJIS.J

Abandonment of French Claims in Madagascar.

Paris, March 27.—1 n the Chamber of Deputies today, M. Ferry announced that the Government hoped a treaty would shortly be concluded with Madagascar, securing duo protection to French subjects residing in Malagasy territory. M. Ferry further stated that the Government had abandoned the claim to a suzerainty over Madagascar.

Mr Gladstone's Illness,

London, March 28,—Mr Gladstone has not yet recovered from his recent illness, and is still confined within doors.

AUSTRALIAN.

Another Expedition to Now Guinea. Melbourne, March 28.— Tiio proprietors of tli9 Melbourne "Ago" have organised another expedition to proceed with the ex ploration of Now Uuinca, under the leader ship of Captain Strahnn. The party, which ixmswtq of six men, lias left here for New Guinea, I'iixiblo Drought. Syikckv, March 28.- Great distress con tinues to be felt in the nortli-Ksstorn portion of this colony owing to the want of vain, and frightful reports have recently conic to hand from the Gunnyluh districts, whom the long-continued drought is resulting in the destruction of immense numbers of sheep and cattiC. Australian Mavlset Roports. Sydxey, March 28.—Now Zealand wheat, per bushel, is 3s 6d ; New Zealand oats, 3s ; maize, 4a Bd ; and Sugar Company's No. 1 pieces, per ton, £84. ADFXAIDK, March 28 There is no change to report in prices of wheat and (lour since last week.

THE WAR IN THE SOUDAN

[13? CABI/E-COPYKMHT.}

(KKUTKII's CABLEGRAMS )

Evacution of tho Country by firitish

Troops.

Cairo, March 27. Telegrams from Souakim state that tho British troops are now returning from Tamaneb to Souakim, Where the various regiments will speedily re-embark for their respective stations in England and Egypt. Rumoured Capture of Khartoum. London, March 28 —It is rumoured in Cairo that El Mahdi has occirpied Khar toum. i _^__

COLONIAL GOVERNORSHIPS.

Sir William Jervois of Victoria,

Melbourne, this day. Rumours uto effrrent hero that; Sir Wm. J rvois will receive tho appointment of Governor of Victoria; that Sir William Robinson, Governor of South Australia, will succeed Sir Wm. Jervois in New Zea land, and that Major-General Scratchley will bo appointed to South Australia.

THE THAMES EXPEDITION TO NEW GUINEA.

[BY TELEGRAPH.— OWK CORKESrONDEST.]

Thames, this day. Considerable interest is taken here re the departure of the Wild Duck for a cruise among tbs inlands of Torres Straits, The vessel is locally owned, and, except the captain, all the crow arc local residents. Those who go by her arc Captain Scott, S. Uoo (mate), W. Gibbons, Ireson C, Lawlor, andJ. Quadri. They intend to be away twelve months, trading between the island? and Cooktow ft.

YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION.

Annual Meeting of Members.

Tiifi animal meeting of members of the Young Men's Christian Association was held last evening in the rooms, Albert street. There was a fair attendance. Mr Frederick Larkins presided, AssxtAh Keport.—The annual report, which was submitted by Mr T. Buddie, hort. Secretary, described the year's work. Educational classes had been started for book-keeping, shorthand, &C, and further classes for elocution and singing are con templated during the winter months. Social gatherings have been held on Tuesday evenings, and a well-arranged programme of winter evening lectures were numerously attended. The Sunday after noon Bible class in still conducted by Rev. !J. S. Hill, the average attendance being about 30. Thursday erening evangelistic service and Saturday evening exposition service are both well attended. Tract dis tribution is systematically carried out, in ' coming vessels are regularly visited, while ■ the boarding-house register has been of con siderable service. The library now consists of 3,000 volume*, the reading-room retains its .subscribers, nnd free uso of this depart ment was afforded to about 100 new-comers nnd strangers during the month. The legacy of £150 from Mr Rawlings has boon received and invested on mortgage as a nucleus for building fund. For tho first time for eighteen years, a balance-sheet with a sum at credit is presented. It was trusted that tho year wotdd see tho success ful inauguration of a schomo to erect new and oxtonded Association buildings. Tho subscribers' and mombers' roll? have been carofully revised, and tho result is as fol lows:—Subscribers at 20s, 156 ; subscribers at 10s, 166: total, 322. To reading-room only, 26 > to library only, 139 ; to both, 157: total, 322. Twenty-five members havo beon admitted during the j'car, making total now 119.

BaIiASCB-sHSET.—This was read by Mr Callendnr, and showed that the receipts amounted to £750 13s sd, and the expenditure to that amount less £10 13s lid balance. Tho statement of assets and liabilities showed that tho site would bo valued at £4,000 ; library and furniture, f3OO ; Rawlings Building Fund, £150 (to credit); cash balanco, £10 : total, £4,4'i0. Liabilities : Tho Association did not owo a penny. There wave small siima outstanding, in subscriptions and rents. Mr Brnckcnrig submitted the fol lowing statement in connection with Theatre services :—Dr. : Balanco from last year, 5a Id ; voluntary contributions, £04 14s ; received from boxes at doors, t'llo 5s 3d: total, £ISO 4s 4d. Cr. : Rent of Theatro Royal, £159; printing, advertising, Ac, £1S ISs 9d ; sundry expenses, £2 2s 6d; balance, 3s Id: total, £ISO 4s 4d.— The report and balance-sheet were- adopted and ordered to bo printed.

Officers.—These were elected as follows: President: Dr. Kenderdino ; VicePrcsi dents: BishopCowie, Archdeacon Maunsell, Rev. S. Macfarlano, Rev. W. S. Potter, Rev. T. M. Fraser, Rev. R. F. Macnicol, Rev. T. Spurgeon, Roy. J. Robertson, Rev. Alex. Reid, Messrs Battley, J. L. Wilson, J. Coupland, D. Goldie, Colonel Haultain, G. Holdship, F. Larkins, H. G. Seth Smith, J. Newman, R. B. Shalders, Hon. Treasurers: Messrs \V. Callcndar and F. Bodlo. Hon. Secretaries : Messrs T. Buddie, F. G. Ewington. Committee of Management: Messrs Bell, Douglas, Thorne, Wndham, Willoughby, Hill, Knight, Hampson, Parker, W. H. Smith, Tucker, TV. S. Wilson, Button, Entrican, Auditors : Messrs F. Mitchell, H. Edmis ton. General Secretary :Mr Wm. Bracken-

ng. A spocial vote of thanks was passed to Mr F. Battley for his services.

Temperance Insurance Statistics.

(To the Editor.)

Sir,—JudgeFenton'sletterisvery opportune and interesting. There are many teetotalers here insured in tho various offices, and they simply do not receive their rights under present arrangements. Tho London Society he refers to has hitherto given an extra pro fit of 17 to 20 per cent, to the abstainers. I belonged to tho Society when in London, and on coming here unwisely transferred to tho A.M.P. Society thus for 20 years losing a bonus of 17 per cent, or more. Teetotalers who aro members of Insurance societies will do real good by bringing tho matter urgently forward.—l am, yours,etc.. March 28, 18S4. . R. C.

Cr. Aickin has given notice of his inten tion to inovo, at the next meeting of the City Council, "That the Engineer report as to the cost ef forming, kerbing, and channeling Jermyn-street to the permanent level ; also as to cost and consent of owners and residents to proposed widening of said street." Cr. Stevenson has given notice to move, "That the Engineer be instructed to report on the best method of draining Karangahape Ward."

TELEGRAMS.

(from ouk own correspondent.)

Thames, this day.—A child named Peter son was drowned yesterday afternoon in th« Shortland Sawmill Company's dam. The. little one was playing on tho floating logs, and fell in.

Quite a crowd collected on the wharf this morning to see the ketch Wild Duck off for her trip to the Islands. At the inquest on Wm. Peterson, aged 9, the evidence .showed he must have fallen into the mill pond while playing on the logs at noon yesterday. He was not missed till evening, and the body was found this morn ing. " Accidental drowning" waß the verdict.

Arrangements are being made for the re ception of the Governor on his visit next Thursday. Cambkiduk, this day.—William Atkinson, who twice attempted suicide at Oxford on the 21.it instant, was brought before the Court here this morning, and ordered to find sureties—himself in £50, and two in £25 ; in default, six months' imprison ment.

The Land Court is still occupied hearing evidence in the Te Whetu cage.

Tho Governor in Waikato.

Tho Governor is expected to arrive from Ohineroutu at five o'clock this afternoon. He will stay at Gillett's National Hotel till luncheon tomorrow, proceeding thence to Gwynne's Hotel, Hamilton. There is to be no public demonstration here. Kimiain, tins day.—People here and at Tc Awamutu arc very jubilant over the re moval of tho constabulary head-quartern from Cambridge to this town. This new accession to our popuLition, coupled with the forthcoming sitting" of the Land Court, has already given quite P air of prosperity to the district.

(I'KR IT.IMB ASSOCIATION.)

Down Among the Coals.

Blknheim, this day.—A stormy meeting' of the shareholders of the Picton coal mine was held last night, and was adjourned for four weeks to permit of the circulation of a report and supplementary balance-sheet to date. Very serious accusations were made against the directors and the late Secretary. WELLINGTON, this day.—At the Wesleyan Church last night, the Rev. Mr Bavin, who is leaving, preached a valedictory address. At the conclusion he was presented with a purse of .sovereigns on behalf of the four Wesleyan churches in Wellington. Nominated Immigration. The number of nominations to be for warded by the outgoing San Francisco mail to-morrow is 164 gonls, equal to 151J adults, and the amount of fees received v £417 12s 6d. The details are—Taranaki, 21 eouls, equal to 18 adults; Hawke's Bay, 6 and 6 ; Wellington, S3 and 32£ ; Nelson, 5 and 5; Cantorbury,3l and 29 ; Otago, 29,35. The nationalities are :—English, 66"; Irish, 66 ; Scotch, 25 ; foreign, 14. The single women number 75 and the single men 31, the remainder being families. Na nominations were received from Auckland or Marlborough. The number oi nominations this month is very email, but this is accounted for by the fact that since> the 12th jnst. no nominations have beem accepted unless for single women. Ciiristchukch, this day.—A monster. meeting is to bo held this afternoon to con sider a series of resolutions condemnatory of the new railway tariff.

Fatal Accident

Yeßterday afternoon a man named Wm. Linlott was killed at Lincoln through falling from a threshing machine. His neck wag broken. Suspected Incendiary Fire.

Dcnedin, this day.—An eleven-roomed house owned by Mr Whenan, and occupied by Dr. Eversleigb, was burnt down at Waikouaiti last night. The insurance is £200 in the Norwich Union Office. In cendiarism is suspected.

Fatal Result of Accidcdt,

Isverckrgill, this day.—The lad Me- Curdy who was kicked by a horse a week Bgo, died to-day.

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Before 11. G. Seth Smith, Esq., R.MJ

Dr. o'kexxbss.— Seven persons were pun ished for this offence.

A Fiuiit.—John Leonard and Patrick Heady, two old topers, pleaded guilty, and were lined 20s each, or in default, 14 days' imprisonment. Lakcesy.—Rebecca Ward was charged! with larceny of five singlets, value'|lßs 9d, the property of J. H. Hannan, draper, oft Victoria-street; also of 12 pairs socks, valse- Us, the property of J. Green, on the 28th inßt. -—Thos. Ward was charged with the larceny of one dolman ulster, value £2 10s, on the' 27th instant, tho property of — Hadley.— Sergeant Gamble said the prisoners were man and wife, and, under the circum stances, he would ask for a remand.—Mr Brassey appeared in defence, and asked for bail; he might say that being locked up in the cells had a very serious effect upon the health of the woman, who had been subject to tits,—Sergeant Gamble said he must ; oppose bail; he was sorry to do 'so; as other goods were missing from 1 shops, and they had not been traced.— I Remanded until Friday next; bail refused.— ' Thomas Lloyd was charged with larceny of a tweed suit of clothes, pairs of trousers, vests, shirts, etc., valne £4 Bs, on tho 25th inst., tho property of William Anderson.— Tho amount was reduced, and prisoner pleaded guilty.—Sergeant Gamble explained the circumstances. Tho prisoner and prosecutor were fellow lodgers, and prisoner took the clothes and pawned them.—Seven days' imprisonment. Temporary Insanity. — Wm. Kendell, suffering from excessive drinking, and who had threatened to see the bottom of the Waitemata, was remanded to tho Infirmary for 7 days. Impure Water.—Robert Murdock, oi tho Governor Gordon Restaurant, was> charged on summons with allowing impure water to run over the carriage-way in Albert-street. —Inspector Goldie stated the nature of the complaint. Tke deposit of filth from defendant's premises was intoler able—Defendant said he had taken every precaution. Ho had engaged a plumber to make the necessary alterations and put down a proper grating, but while the pre parations Mere in progress ho was startled with a summons. It was not his fault, and he would deny that there was an offensive smell.—Thomas Hodges deposed to the stato of the place.—Edward L. Clarke, in defenco, deposed that there was no stench arising from Mr Murdock's premises.—To Mr Goldie : The water runs into the gutter, and thence into the sea. — Mr Goldie_: That's where you make the mistake; lit does not.—Fined 20s and costs. Judgment.—David Dunningham, charged with obstructing the police while in the execution of their duty on Sunday last, appeared in answer to the charg.—Mr Hes keth appeared in defence.—Tho particulars of this case havo already been published,-- His Worship reviewed the evidence, an* considered that there was an obstruction, bnt it was not of a sorious character.^ fined 5s and costs.

Swiss Commissioner's Speech.

Extract from a speech delivered at tho AmplnthOiitro of the Primary College of l*- Chaux-do-Fonds, Tuesday, the Uth diiy or November, 1876, by M. Kdquard Kiivre-rorrcl, Swiss Commissioner and juror to tho l'nlia dolphin Exhibition :—

On tlio Waltham "Rivcrido" Watch. .... "The Waltham Company make ilia entiro watch — from tlio first screw to tlio caso and dial. It would even bo difficult for them to use our products, so great is the regularity, 60 minuto tho precision, with which their machines work. They arrive at a regulation of tho watch-so to sar r without having soon it When (he watch is civon to tho adjuster, tho foreman delivers to him the corresponding hair-spring, and the watch is rogulatod. (Sensation among tho audience.) Hero is what I have seen, gentle men ! I asked from tho director of tho Waltham Company a watch of the fifth grade. A largo safe was openod before mo; at random I took a watch out of it and fastened it to my chain. Tho director having asked me to let him havo tho watch for two or three dnys 80 as to observe tho motion. lansworcd, ' On the contrary, 1 per sist in wearing it just as it is, to obtain an exact idea of your manufacture.' At Paris I set my watcn by a regulator on the Boulevard, and on tho sixth day I observed lhat it had varied 32 seconds. And this watch is of the fifth American grade; it cost 75 francs (movement without case). At my nrrival at Locle I showed the watch to ono of our first adjusters, who asked permission to 'take it down'—in other words, to take it to pieces. I. however, wished first to observe it, anr| hero is the result which I noted: hanging, daily variation I \ seconds: variation in different positiuns, from 1 to 8 seconds, in the " heated room' the variation was but very slight. Having thus observed it. I handed the watch to the adjuster, who took it down. After the lapso of a few days he camo tome and said, word for word: 'I am com pletely overwhelmed ; the result is incredible; one would not find one such watch among 50,(T0 of our manufacture.' "This watch, gentlemen, I repeat to you, I took at hazard—out of a heap, as wo smy. You understand, from ibis exnmple. that the Waltham w teh may he. preferred. J have finished, per.tli men, mvi 1 have told you of things such ail haw *ccn ih ni. It remains for us to prolit from this n d experience, and to im prove our manufacture. Competent men aro not wanting among us; they must go to work a once."

[A round of applause, followed the speaker M he descended the tribuuc.J-lADvr.

THE AUCKLAND VENING STAR, SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1884

2



Special Advertisements- TSMPOBABY PREMISES OPPOSITE A. CLABE AND SONS'. H. L. POSSENISKIB, MERCHANT TAILOR AND IMPORTER, Sbortland-strget, Auckland, Wishes to Inform His Patrons ami the Publio generally that he has JUST RECEIVED HIS FIRST SHIPMENTS OF AUTUMN AND WINTER GOODS, Per b.s. Ruatehu. Tho above comprise all the Latest .Designs in TWEEDS and COATINGS, and are well . worthy an inspection. THE "VTEW ZEALAND TWEED COMPANY .1^ , has ; REMOVED TO Tills PREMISES LATELY OCCUPIED BY Mh HAMPTON. SHORTLAND- STREET. JOSEPH MOSES. Manager. DR. P H I L S ON, Late District Surgeon. Attends bom 10 a,m. to 1 o'clock p.m., AND DR. J. H. HONEYMAN From 11 a.m. to 1 o'clock p.m., at AicEm'a, THE PHARMACY, , ■ Queen-street /^HEAP HIGH-CLASS TAILORING. I A. E. SPENCE, 172, QraEy-STKEET, Begs to inform the Public of Auckland that HE HAS ~.'.' > OPENED, BUSINEBS MERCEAN t N AILORING , AT ABOVE ADDRESS. Having several years Experience as " Cutter " in leading London and Provincial Trades, A. E. S. is prepared to turn out GENTLEMEN'S GARMENTS IN THE MOST APPROVED AND FASHIONABLE STTLB,' AT VEBY MODERATE CASH PRICES. I Note the1 address— i 172. QUEEN-STREET (Over Meßsrs Wilson; Williams. & McCullagh). fijlO BUILDERS ANTJ VLlul'liliTh !!.. niifii;rai|;ned lire prepared to KxcuvnU y\ll!'i!;io;its in Die Lower Parts of the City upor specially favourable terms. W. & G. WINSTONK. ~T~ITTT FTTTi \v int c k jt.l 1 v ciiMty-T^a, i-x loch breuan, I,OUO TONS NEWCASTLE COALS, WILL BE SOLD CHEAP. NOW'S TilK TISIB TO STOCK. ■ ■ W. &G. WINSTONE. Il^jiVpiosP^P^B6 v. U. BHARTiANp opposite Post-offlca. ON SALE, a very Low Kates, by the undersigned, in Lots to suit PurchasoTS— OATS OATMEAL ]\IAIZK WOOD'S FLOUB FOWL WHEAT TEA HKAN SUGAR SHARPS POTATOES CHAFF BUTTER BONEDUSr, &c, &c, &O. Agents for t!i« following— The Celebrated "ALHANY FOOD" for Ii f«wls—lho sile of this article is immense. Iho Unrivalled HK.UATITJ2 PAINT from Kh mo, quality not equalled. The Hikurangi Sawmill, orders taken for BUILDING TIMBER at low rates, and sup plied at short notice. E. MITCHELSON & CO., 19. QUKEX-STREET. AMUBL WHITE HAS FOR SALE AT IBS YARD, CUSTOMS-STREET :- Per 100. PurirlPosts ...... ..«810b Very Good Puriri Pasta Z .. 710 Hobartßails » W ' • Sawn Puriri Posts 8x 3 .. .. JKCderb. Sawn Heart Kauri Boards, 6z|.. )83 pr IOT SplitPaUigß ..,, # .. ... 10 Hobartßala :. U - .: ,80 Sawn KLmu Rails iv .. .. 65 : Titree Rails ... 7p Kauri Posts .. .. .. .. Iseaob Bhiogles, House Blocks, fee. 19 SAWN SLEEPERS. 8 x 5.2s 6d eaoh. Perambulators and carpets, reversible bicycle wheel and other kinds of perambulators just opened from £1 to £7. Now designs in JBrussell and tapestry carpets. Furnish your house througHont from Garlick and Granwqlto City Hall Furnishing Warehouse, Queen-strew; .[Adyxvl '



Special Advertisements. WHERE SHALL I PVRNIBB Ml HOUSE FROM) r.y cv.K.WViT ALL ROUND HOUSE TO I iHKIHII FHOM 18 THE CITY HALL AIiGAD.S -GAKLICK & CRANWELL ! I CRANWELL. :KT)-ROOJI FURNITURE, go to GARLICK & CRANWELL. AKI' ET|a»K & CRANWELL, GAHLICK & CRANWELL, House Furnishers, GARIJCK & CRANWELL, Upholsterers. GARLICK & CRANWELL, Manufacturers OB ALL KINDS OK FURNITURE. v c a f Tapestry & Brussel Carpkts. iieap Oilcloths & Linoleum, "iikap & Beautiful Cretonnes. Cheap Blankets & Curtains. GARLICK & CRANWELL, HOUSE FURNISHERS Cm Hall Arcade, QUEKN-SrREET, AUCKLAND. For You THE GOODS I°%°^ For You Manufactured by I°%°\l F^r ¥SS THE NEW ZEALAND &§{& For You CLOTHING FACTORY To Note JISySS From the Celebrated 55 UStS For You MOSGIEL TWEEDS To Note ZyZ Acknowledged ™«. For You To be the Most To Note For You STERLING VALUE To Note For You And Best ToNote Por You ■ To Note For You WEARING GARMENTS To Note For You Evor Produced. ToNote For You While the Range To Note For You Of Prices To Note '(•'or You That the Most To Note Fur You ECONOMICAL. r^Vn'.S For You ToWhom To Note For You MONEY IS AN OBJECT, To Note For You Will be Jo Note £ O rYou Thoroughly Satisfied. ?JnSS For You To Note JorYou I°%°? j%}% AUCKLAND BRANCH, Kte *%$% 158&160. SnSS £*£ J- FITZSIMONS. &J?« Branch Manaeer. ggg ••or You To Note or You I To Note -■<)'■ You ! .„,,., j 11 To Note Klll Yi>n : N.D.— Patterns and all Tojjote For You linformatlon sent Post Free. To Not* Mrs r. somerville, WELLESLEY-STREET (OPPOSITE ABBOTT'S OPEBA HOU8B), Has Received, per Mail Steamor, A BEAUTIFUL ASSORTMENT OF FRENCH AND ENGLISH MILLINERY. "CURE! FIRE!! FIRE!!! The Northumberland having arrived with T M CM AST ERS NEW SEASON'S DRAPERY AND CLOTHING, the sale of smoke-stained Goods •MUST SOON BE BROUGHT TO A CLOSE. Persons Desiring GREAT BARGAINS call this week at ' T. Mc M A S T E.R'S; QUEEN-STREET (OPPOSITE THE MARKET). DEMOVAL OF BtfSINBSS. JyJILNE & QHOYCE Respectfully Announce that THEIR PREMISES WILL BE C L 0 S ED CLOSED ON FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, MARCH 28th AND 29th, FOR REMOVAL OF STOCK TO THE NEW BUILDINGS. WELLESLEY AND LORNE-STREKTS, Where Business will be CARRIED ON DURING THE RE-BUILDING I OK THKIK QUEEN-STREET PREMISES. T\RESS AND FASHION ARRIVAL OF 100 CASES, EX BRENHILDA RUAPEHU, lONtC, Rq., OK AUTUMN AND WINTER GOODS. J. COSGRA YE & Co. have Much pleasure in announcing the arrival of over 100 Cases of NEW GOODS and NOVELTIES for all Depart ments. The collections include an assortment ->l entirely New and Elegant Designs and Colourings in tho most fashionable materials for this Season's wear, comprising— PLAIN and Broolie Velvets and Velveteens, Dress Scrgettes, Silks and Batins, Tweed Suitings, Plushes, Louvte Cloth, Cold and Black French Cashmeres, Braemar Plaids, Carmelites and Brigcs, Chester Plaids. ■GAUNTLET, Mousqnitairc and Swede Gloves, Cashmero Hosiery, Edged Collar?, Umbrel las. Buttons, Eidelweiss Laces, Trimmings and Mantle Ornaments. SATIN and Plush Ribbons and Ribbon Velvets, Fancy Neckwear, Millinery, Embroideries, Mantles, Corsets. Ladies' and Children's Ulsters. DOLMANS, Circulars. Seal Mantles, Wool Squares, Cashmere Mitts, Fur Trimmings. P *sSi? ublio v? c oordiau l invited to call and SwSrS«? ur iNew Go J °4? now on view- a» «rf SannV.of^ 8 lm Ported by us direct from the manufacturers, we are enabled to offer at EXCEPTIONALLY LOW PRICES Dress and Mantle Mokinit on ths Premises. Note toe Address— J. COSGRA YE & CO., 201 AND 206, OUEEW-BTIiEET (Opposite Wm. McArthur & Co. s Warehouse). "I") IS EASES OF THE E TE. ARTHUR HICHAItDSON, M.D., SPECIALIST AND OPERATOR ON DISEASES OP THE EYE, MAY BE CONSULTED AT HIS RESI DENCE, KARANG.AHAPE ROAD, From 1 to 3 in the afternoon ; OR HASLETTS ENGLIBH PHARMACY, 181, Queon-BLraet. from 3 to 5. I^HRISTOFLE AND CTE, PARIS, V/ Makers of Fine.it Pi'.ATEDWARE of all ;inds. FOKKS mid SPOONS heavily plated on iard, wtiite metal. 1 CHIUSTfIFI. X MMCKP ONLY ONE QUALITY THK VKI'.Y REST KNOWN. Each iilnc"! Rurniiuioed by the same CHRISTOKI4C. and Iho weight of sUverthereon stamped. Bujin- >vantfnK Rood value ore ad visedto get ruuwTori.K.* PUTS. WholejaJe A(i<)uoi rui). Kiizabeth-street. M«l« bourne, , J