SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

<i "li WATtro J This Evening, 7.32 ■ U >VAlKK^ TomorrowMorn i„ Ei 7. a o SU <SKT.—This Evening. 5.39 SU ' ■ ISE.—To morrow Morning. 0.17 MOON'S AGE.-Has! Quarter. (2th. 7.10 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY. Wenonu. baii.ue, Davis, from Newcastle Wellington, 8.5.. Farquhar, from Tauranga Ulenclg, U.S.. Stephenson, from Russell Rowena. as.. .Scott, from Mercury Bay Neptune, s.s., Norris.from .Mercury Bay

DEPARTURES.

LiST EVENING. Waitaiki. s.s . Crawford, for Whangarei Macgregor, s a. Johnson, for Whangarei

IMPORTS.

I'er Wt nona, from Newcastle—SflO tons coal.

The Lajla Rookh, for Waitara, sailed from the Manukau to-day.

The barque Weuona, from Newcastle, made the passage in 10 days.

' Tbe Cygnet is discharginsr copra into the ship Crusader, foa London.

The following Union Company steamers are due to arrive here during tho ensuing week :— Wanaka (at Onehunga). from the South. Sunday, 10 a.m.; Hotomahann, from Melbourne, via the South. Monday, 10 a.m.; Manapouri, from Sydney, Tuesday; Penguin, from Fiji, Wednes day.

The barque John Knox, bound for Newcastle, and the cutters Mercury, Paku, and Maua, for Auckland, were loading at Tairua when the Neptune left yesterday afternoon.

The s.s. Wellington arrived from Tauranga this morning with the following passengers :- Messrs Wrigley, Oliver, Hill, Salt. Taylor, Tay lor, Davcy, Adnmson, Captain Ellis, Mesdames Walmsley, Drought, Cirrrins, Mr and Mrs Mutray.

The following passengers arrived from Mercury Bay and Tairua by the s.s. Neptune, this moraine:—Mr and Mrs Smith. Mrs Cooney. Misses Clearer and Monro, Messrs Wai-mall, Coades, Morris. French, Holland.

The Northern Steamship Companj's new steomsr Clansman arrived at St. Vincent on August 29th, 12 days out. She may be expected to arrive here early in October.

The 3.3. Rowena arrived from M ercuryllay I his morning with tho feiloivJng passengers :-Capt. Craig. Messrs O'Callagha'n, Dinon. Pinford. Ralton, Norton, Ferry, If. Robinson, E. Murphy, Southwell. Regan, Haggcrty. Mr Agncw and family (5), Captain Hume.

The s.s. Glenelg arrived from Russell nnd Northern porta this morning. Passengers:— Mesdames Nicholson. Fox, Scott, Davison, Mas ter Davison. Mits Williams, Rev. Pnrsonson, Captain Williams, Captain Phillips, Messrs Smith, Cle-»s.jßlamlev.Gil!on,Trcnch__ird,Ne%-io, Scott, Pinn, Sydney Taiwhonga, and 3 in the steerage.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

GisnOBKE, this day.-Sailed : Thomas Russell, for Auckland.

Melbourne. September s.—Arrived, this evening: Waihora, from the Bluff:,

Sydney, September 5.— Arrived, yesterday morning: Wakatipu, from Wellington. Sailed, yesterday afternoon : iftmapouri, for Auckland.

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Star Office, this day. Messrs Carbines AND'I'AYLORhcId their usual FriSay sale ot poultry, produce, furniture, gro ceries, fancy goods, nnd drapery, and report a goodatt«ndan«e and bidding animated. Poultry —Young fowl?, Is 3d to Is Sd ; full grown fowls. Is Sd to 3s: Langshan fowls, 3s Cd; Brahma fowls, 4s 3d; hen and chickens, 6s to 6s 3d; young pigs, lis -3d: canaries. 7s 6d to I2s 9d; pure bred Dorking fowls, Ss 6d each. Produce —Hams and bacon, s'd to 7Jd; good hams and bacon are very scarce; inferiorhumsand bacon, 2d to 4jd; keg beef. Id to lid lb; keg butter, 2d to 6}d lb ; potatoes, £3 to £1 10s per ton, accord ing to sample; carrots, 2s Cd to 3s; three sittings of eggs by pure Spanish fowls, 23 doz: onions, l}d to 2jd; oats, 2s <kl; bra», lis: chaff, 2s Cd; sharps, 6s. Groceries—Tea tin half-chest?). Is 3d to 2s: tea (in boxes). 15s to 203; sugar, 3d to 3id; candles, B_jd to 9}d; kerosdne, Is fid to Is 9d J soap, 8s Gd to 15s per box. Furniture—l rocking c*hair, 9s; mirrors, lis; tables, 3s 6d to 6s; wash stands, is 6d; stools, 2s 9d each. Jewellery, fancy good 3, and a general assortment ot drapery sold at fair prices. Bknefactor-W" When a board of eminent physicians andTaemlsts announced the (lis covery that by combining somo well-known valuable remedies a most wonderful medicine was produce.!, which would oure sucb a wide range of diseases that moßt all othei remedies conld be dispensed with, many were sceptical, but proof ot Its merits by actual trial has dispelled all doubt, and to-day the discov erers.of t!iat.gTcat medicine* Hop Bitters, are honoured and blessed By "all as benefactors.' Read.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails will Close as c.ndkr • - Monday. Sth inst. For Waitara, etc., per Argyle or Douglas, at 11 For Chatham Islands, per Omaha, at 11 a.m. For Napier and Gisborne, por Thomas Russell, at 11 a.m. , , „,,.,., For Coromandel, per Coromandel. at H.Joa.iu. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 3 p.m. For Tauranga, Ohincmutti, and Opotiki, per Glenelg. at 4 p.m. , For Huesoll, Kawakawa. Whangaroa. and Monjronui, per Wellington, at a p.m. For Whltiangi, Upper Mill, and Tairua, per Rowena or Neptune, alop.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 0..M p.m. Tcesday, 9th inst. For Taptuiaki and Southern Ports, per Wanaka, at 7.40 a.m. ~,„.. For Waiwera. Kawau. Omaha, Matakana, and Warkworth, per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. Per Rotomahana, as follow: For China, Japan, Suez, Brindisi. and Continent of Europe, 3 p.m. Australian Colonies anil United Kingdom (via Suez and Brindisi, or Naples, per Orient steamer), for letters, etc., specially so pre paid and addressed, at I p.m. For Money . Orders, Repistered Letters and Newspapers, 3 p.m. Late letters for Sydney and Melbourne only nl t.2oa.m. The United Kingdom mail will.be due in London on Tuesday, JSih October. For Whangarei Heads, Pnrua, Waipu, Whangarei, Kamo. Tangihua, and Mangapai, per Macgregor or Waitaki, ai 5 p.m. Tuesday, 16th inst. Per s.s. City of Sydney as follows :— For Navigators Islands, Sanawich Islamlß. United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central, and bouth America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe at 1 p.m. Money ordcra. registered letters and news papers, at 11.30 a.m. Late letters. beariag an oxtra fee of six pence in addition to tls} postage, will be received by the Mail j?gcnt on board the steamor up to the time of sailing. This mail will bo duo in Ixmdon on Satur day, October 25»h, iBSt. 8. B. BISS. Chief Postmasto Chlof Poat-offlce. Auokland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

SEPTKMIIEK 0, 1881,

Abbott's Opera-House- Willmott's Dramatic and Comedy Company, "Formosa," 7.15 p.m.

New Zealand Seamen's Union. Sailor's Rest. 7 p.m.

.French Literary Society— Debate: "Does the World Run the Risk of Being Over-populated 1"' Affirmative: Mr Watkins; Negative: Mr Burton, 8 p.m. V.M.C.A.—Devotional. 7.30 p.m.

Birth.

HOWARD.—On3rd Septemberat her residence, Wynvard-street, the wife of Joseph Howard of a son.

Deaths.

HOWE.—On September sth, Mr T. Rowc ; nged C 3 years. The funeral will leavo tbe residence of Mrs 11. Beedell, Eden Terrace, at 3 p.m. to-morrow (Sunday). Friendspleasoaccoptthis intimation. TURQUAND.-On September 2, at Brighton Rood, Israeli, F«hnk Glynn Turquatid. second son of the Rev. Alexander Turquaiul, M.A., formerly of Cnlmstock. Devonshire; age 23. YOUNG.—On September I,ISSI, James Young, engineer, late of Glasgow ; uged 11 years. The funeral will l^ave the District Hospital to-morrow (Sunday), at 2 o'clock. Friends are invited to attend.

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

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 1884.

For the cause that lacks assistance. For the wrong thatneeda reatstaagt, For the future In the distance, And the geod'that we can do.

What has been described as the greatest scientific discovery yet made has been com municated to the British Association at its meeting at Montreal by Mr Caldwell, who

is now in Australia on a scientific mission. If the discovery should prove of tho kind we believe it t.i be, we can understand the enthusiasm with which it has been received by the sav.int.-i now assembled in Canada. The British Association is largely imbued with that material philosophy of which Darwin nnd Huxley aro too principal ex ponents, and its members would hail with delight any fresh fact which would seem to strengthen their pet theory. The Australian continent, because of its being the habitat of mammals in an apparent state of arrested development, has always been looked to with hope as the source from which the desired testimony should come, and the plaudits which greeted Mr Caldwell's tele gram prove that it is believed the long looked-for "missing link" has been found.

There can be no doubt that the " lowest mammal " referred to is the platypus or ornithorhyncus, an animal peculiar to Aus tralia, Tasmania, and New Guinea, and which is variously known as the " duck bill" and "water-mole." It has long been a disputed point whether it was ovi parous (egg-producing), viviparous (pro ducing offspring alive), or ovoviparous (producing eggs which break just before be ing laid). " Chambers's Encyclopaedia " places the animals in the last-named class; " Cassell's Natural History " favours the viviparous view ; while Paseoe s " Zoo logical Classification," the most recent work we have seen on the subject, says it is doubtful whether they are oviparous or ovoviparous. Dr. Bennett, of Sydney, a close student of the subject, has lately pursued observations with a view to determine the matter ; but beyond finding the young in nests, in a very imperfect state of development, he was not able to adyance Hie general knowledge on the subject. The British Association some time ago sent Mr Caldwell to Australia to observe the habits of the platypus, and discover, if possible, its method of producing progeny. If the telegram is correct in stating that it has been proved "viviparous," we fail to see the importance of the discovery, as it only proves the ornithorhynous to bo a true mammal. In such case the conclusion drawn by Professor Moseley, that it strengthens the theory that the lino of descent of tho human species has been through reptiles, is quite unintelligible, as reptiles are all oviparous or ovoviparoas. We believe it will be found that a telegraphic error has occurred, and that the word used in the message should be " oviparous." Such a discovery might truly be described as "the most important ever submitted to the scientific world," as it would supply a link of connection between mammals, reptiles, and birds, which has been conspicuously wanting. Fuller accounts oi the discovery will be awaited with ke.en anxiety by all interested in biological aqiencp,

" Hippona's " usual weekly sporting note: will be round on the eighth page.

The P.M.S.S. Australia, with the English and American mails, left San Francisco on August 30, and will consequently arrive here about Saturday, the 40th inst.

The charges made against Hugh Mc- Bhone, of tho Queen's Hotel, for supplying liquor to several young men on Sunday, the 24th ult., were withdrawn, as the two prin cipal witnesses could not be found.

Mr Theo, Cooper applied, on behalf of Mrs Bannister, a respectable - looking woman, for a prohibition order to prevent botelkeepers from supplying her hr#band ; Frederick Bannister, fishmonger, with in toxicating drinks. Mrs Bannister told a sad story .of her sufferings in consequence of _her ijugbjiwd's pernicious hab.its'. His Worship grafted iM ..order.

" Who after this «an say people do not read adyertise.meu.ts.*' writes aeoinjspon dent;—" I inserted the following thyee times in your yaJn l able paper :—' Pjano for sale, in good order j yfipe, L 8 : a bargain. —Apply to C, F,ergusson, gigj)-street (two doors from Vulcan _Lane),' with a i^sjjjt of no less than semntijrthr.ee j>erson.(fl applica tions for it. I need hardly gay, Mr Editor, that that, piano is sold,"

After their monthly inspection pai-ade ! last night, the Haval Brigade )iad a march out, headed by the Garrison Band. At the monthly inspection of the A Battery of Artillery on Monday night 50 men answered to the roll call. The ties* uniform and tall busbies are expected to arrive shortly.

The case known as "Jackson's baby case" was down for hearing to-day, but Mr Wood, wbojippeared for the unfortunate girl, Porterfield, tho mother of the child, informed the Court that Jackson had not put in an appearance The case was there fore again adjourned for one month in ortjep to give Jackson evory chance of jneoting the charge.

The most recently added " bureau " to the telephone system of febo city—that at Mr Tyer's, Upper Symonds-street—is in every senso a great convenience to residents m that district. The room set apart for telephone business is so arranged that perfect quietness and privacy are seemed and the appointment are al), so/compile that a, recent -. visitor. could only suggest the addition of an easy chair to finish the room. As, however, patrons'of the bureau only use the room for five minutes afc a time, tbe chair would only prove a -super fluous ornament..

Tlie Registrar of Electors is taking active steps, in view of a possible general election, to have the local votess' rolls purged. Tho rolls ate to be open for inspection on Tues days nnd Fridays, between 10 and' 2 o'clock, at the office back of the Police Court. Mr Collins will immediately notify those whom he considers not qualified to take their names otl'thc rolls, and to save expense all parties so notified would do well to pay prompt attention to ths matter.

The usual monthly meeting- of the Mount Roskill Band of Hope was held last night, when the room was well tilled. -Mr Joseph Greenwood, who occupied the chair, spoke of the advantages of total abstinence, especially to the youn<*. Recitations were given by" Mrs G. Carr, Miss Can-, Mr West. Messrs Boyd, McKay, and Anderson; a reading by Miss Grindrodj songs by Mrs Gush, MrGrindrod and the Misses Bishop; and n glee by Mount Eden friends.

A sad suicide is reported from Oamaru, Mrs Philip Mason having cut her throat while in a state of mental aberration. The poor woman died in :» few minutes after committing the act.

In confnection with tho Society of Art; Exhibition of next year, Herr Schmidt has olTcred two silver medals for the best musical compositions, one for a song, con taining not less than two verses (words by any author) and pianoforte accompaniment, and one for a pianoforte piece of at least four pages ordinary music (including dance music). The competitors must be localama tetirs, and their contributions must not have been written with professional assistance or correction. Two copies of each piece require to bo sent in to tho Secretary (Mr J. L. Holland, Grafton Road) by the 2nd April, 1SS"), and a ;<o«i </c jilu-me must be given with each, the mitbor's full name and address bein<r enclosed in w accompanying envelope. The Society will award with each medal a first class certificate, and cer tificates of second class to those eoini>»si tions which are awarded second place, while the be_,st compositions and all others of sufficient merit will be performed during the evenings on which the exhibition is opened.

At the monthly meeting of the Mount Eden Domain Board yesterday (Messrs Lawry, Harper, Potter, and I'dy being present), it was resolved to instruct Messrs Tonks and Co. to advertise the grazing of tho domain, upon the same conditions as those under which it was leased last year. A letter was received from tho present lessee claiming some compensation for land taken for plantations. A small sum, in proportion to the price paid for tho domain, was allowed. Mr Udy was deputed to get repairs effected to tho road leading to tho mountain. The Board expressed its will ingness to construct the road from the Epsom side directly the approach road is acquired and duly opened. It was stated that Messrs Griffith nnd Son's planting con tract had been executed in a highly satis factory manner.

Before tho Resident Magistrate to-day, four persons were fined foi- drunkenness. Joseph Blight, for assault on the police, was fined 40s and costs, or four teen days' imprisonment. Three desorting husbands, Win. C. Taylor, Michael John Kennedy, and Charles Walter Langstone, were ordered to contribute Thomas Quinn, who was up for drunkenness, was also charged with failing to support his wife, and "as he had no means he was sent a month to gaol with hard labouu. Mrs Alex, Lamb was granted a protection order, and her husband was ordered to pvy las a week towards her support.

At the meeting of tho Board of Educa tion yesterday, the Secretary submitted the usual statement of bank balances, which showed a debit balance of £1,00(3 19s Gd. He also read a letter from Mr Kissling fix ing the amount of overdraft that would bo allowed at £3,-101 10s lOd. It was stated that the usual supplies for building pur poses had not yet been voted by Parliament. Tho Board expressed a wish that the teachers and School Committees generally would refrain for tho present making de mands for furniture, having in view its financial condition. In reference to a de ferred application from the Ponsonby School Committee, the engineer reported that the closets were in fair repair, but that the iron tubs required to be replaced, which would involve an outlay of £0 7s (id. This sum was then voted for the purpose indicated.

The concert and ball in connection with the Newmarket Brass Band, held last night in the district hall, was a gratyl success. Mr Angelo Forrest presided at the piano forte. The hall was completely crowded at opening time, and more than 100 persons were unable to obtain admittance. Without going into tho special merits of the per formances, which wero all commendable, we submit the programme :—Overture, "La Traviata," Band; song, " The Outpost," Mr H. Littlewood ; song (character), "My Friend the Ma-jab," Mr J. R. Montague ; song, "The lighthouse-keeper," Mr E. Gatland ; cornet solo, " The Last Bose of Summer,'' with variations, Bandmaster Morris ; comic song, " The Same Old Hat," Mr T. Leedhani; song, " The Old Brigade," Mr D. Menzies; sailor's hornpipe, Air A. Hughes; selections, " Qucenie" (waltz,), "The First Rose" (polka), Band; song, " Blow, Bugler, Blow," MrR. Sceats; song (character), "The Dear Old Flag," Mr J. R. Montague; song, " Tho Friar of Orders Grey," Mr D. Menzies; pianoforte duet, "The Rille Galop," Misses Paterson ; comic song, "The Dirty Boy," Mr XV. C. Nairn ; song, "Tho King's Highway," Air H Lit tlewood. The whole concluded with the lively farce, '■' Wanted a Coachman, by a Marriageable Young Lady.—Apply T.B.HA This was most amusing in detail, and based, we were informed, by a recent announce ment in the Stak. The porformers were Messrs Montague, Nairn, and Lumpkin. The ball opened at half-past ten o'clock, and was kept up with much spirit for several hours. It is gratifying to notice that the members of the Newmarket Brass Band have made good progress since their estab lishment, and last night's performances fully justified tho reputation of these musi cians.

On Tuesday noxt, 9th instant, the Crimean veterans now in Auckland propose com memorating the celebrated campaign by a dinner at the British Kestaurant. Tickets are obtainable from the Secretary (Mr W. H. Hazard, 166,Queen-i:trcet) up to Monday evening.

The annual meeting of the Parnell Cricket Club was held in the Prcßbyterian School-room, Parnell, last evening, when there was a good attendance of members. Mr T. Ryan occupied the chair. Twenty-six members having joined this year, two elevens were formed. Mr w. Gardiner was elected captain, and Mr W. Speight secretary. The following live were nppointed as a committee :—Messrs T. Ryan, J, Lecky, A. Cosson, the faptain and secretary. It was decided that the colonrs of the Clnb should be a blue cap, piped with white. It was also decided that the Club should rejo'n the Association and ground. At the close a bat was presented to Mr W. Gardiner for having the highest baiting average, and a par of batting glov»s to Mr 1\ Brown for his excellent bowling during the past season. Votes of thanks to tho Chairman and outgoing officers brought the meeting to an end. "ROUGH ON CORNS."-Ask for wort "lUrajl, .» Corns.'.' Qni-jk relief, complete, permanent cure. Corn.-, -.vnrta, bunions. Kemptliome, Browser . Co., Agents, Auckland There was a large attendance of members of the J. E. Redmond Nation il I. ..gue in the Catholic Institute last evening. ': :.e reading of Wendell Phillips's oration on the Liberal Daniel O'Connell, was very favourably re ceived. Several hew members wero initiated, and this branch of the League is continually widening and strengthening, numerically and financially, week by Tyeek. Particulars of Sunday services will be found elsewhere. Evening discourses: St. Paul's, "Kternal Life," by Rev. C. M. Nelson. St. James's Presbyterian Church. Rev. R. Sommerville, " Christianity, the Religion of Reason." Borcsford street, Rev. J. Robertson. I' Footprints on the Sands of Time." Pitt-street Wcßleyan, Rev. A. Reid. "True Womanhood." in memory of the late Mrs Buddie. St. David's. Symonds-stscet, '.* Raising of the Widow's Son,'.' Rev. T. Mackenzie I'>aser. For othor particu lars see page three,

Water consumers by meter are notified that accounts rendered on the ?Ist require to be paid forthwith. Unpaid supplies after the Bth inst. yill ffs liable to be cut pff.

The Auckland Hospital librarian thanks Mr A. Oampbeji, 253, Queen-Btreet, for about 2Jlbs weight of literature, and Messrs Hewin Bros, far conyeying the package to the Hospital.

"f he fine oil pointings of a Maori chief and wife are open to the inspection of the publio at tho shop of Mi- T. Samuel. Quoen street, and, as worffs of art, are worthy of special nfltiee. The promising artist is Mr Joseph Gault. Th c paintings are to be disposed of by art union, and, a* notified by advertise ment, the tickets arp only Is eaoh, there should bo a long list of subscribers.

Wp draw attention to the Baud of Hope Unifin Drum and Fife Band's concert, under the able conauctprsijip of Mr Pook, which takes Slacem the Temp-ranee Hall. Albert-street en londay next, the Bth inst. A good prcgrammfl Will be presented, and no doubt all those who favour tho band wjfli their patronage will have no occasion for regret. It is to be hoped that all lovers ot temperance and others will give this promising young band their hearty and siiostan tjal support. ". "' '

Yor; Can be Happy if you wf 11 stop all yom doctoring yourself and families with expensive doctors or cure-alls that doonlytfarm, and use Nature's simple remedies for all your ail iments, you wijl he well and h.appy and save exeat expense. The greatest remedy for this, o>egreat, wiße, and good will tell you, Is Hob Bittters. See. ■.'"*:

We recommend our lady friends to see Smith and Caughey's first display ot spring and summer dpes* niateria}s.-[ADyj\) The Auckland Timber Company are fetilAp^f 116 * o'tb/Countess

PARLIAMENTARY

liftl Si; OF REPRESENTATIVES

WHOM OUR SPECIAL HlWOliTEIi.]

Wellington*, this day The House met yesterday at 2 30 p.m.

Auckland Petitions.

SIX Cki.i. Grey presented a petition from lialph Rickmer and David Cunningham, complaining of the non-payment of certain moneys by Government, and praying for relief. Mr Bccki.and presented a petition from tho Pukokoho settlers re administration of destitute relief. Mr Lakk. presented two petitions from Henry Casanbore re purchase of land at Onewhoro. Mr Cadman presented a peti tion in favour of maintaining the Education Act. Mr Moss presented a petition from Benjamin Greaves, quarryninn, Mount Eden, asking relief re quarry reserve.

Leave of Abiymce,

Leave of absence was granted to Mr Wilson* for one week, and Mr Fisiu k for a fortnight.

Federation and Annexation,

Mr Dakiuville, in asking the Premier whether he will atlord the House an oppor tunity during tho session of expressing an opinion upon the proposed Federa tion and Annexation Bill adopted by the Intercolonial Conference, said that three Agents-General representing Victoria, Queensland, and Tasmania had urged tho Imperial Government tv Legis late in that direction. Two colonies—Now- South Wales and South Australia—had dis sented. The late Premier had proposed to ask Parliament to approve of the bill, and ho was desirous of asking whether the Government intended to give tho House facilities for discussing it, or whether pri vate members must take any course open to thorn. The Premier replied that the Govern ment would give the desired opportunity. The lion, member was not correct in saying that two colonies had dissented. He held in his hand a cablegram from Mr Service, Premier of Victoria, stating that South Australia had passed the address for tho Federation Council Bill by a majority of Now BUls. Leave was given to introduce the following bills :— Mr Taiaroa, Maori Representation; Mr Stout, Foreign Companies ; Mr Stout, Local Courts ; Mr Stout, Bankruptcy Act Amendment jMr Stout, Public Works Amendment; Captain Morris, Spencer Restoration of Water-right; Captain Morris, Taurpuga Harbour; Mr Bruce, Seamen's Representation. Married Women's Property. The Premier, in moving the Married Women's Property Bill, said this bill had before passed partly through the Legislature. it was almost a tran script of tho English statute, and simply gave married women possession of their own property. Under the existing law, when a woman married, all her pro perty went to her husband,who might make away with another. A common case in the colonies was the desertion of women by bad husbands. Sometimes such men came back and sold the fruits of their wives' hard labour. This bill simply gave to women what was already given to men—possession of their own property. Mr Thomson opposed tho bill, on tho ground that it would chiefly bo a gold mine for lawyers. Mr SUEPUERD supported it. The second rending was carried with out a division. Second Roarings. The following bills were read a second time without discussion : -Electric Lines, Police Oflbnces, Counties and Mortgages Release Extension (simplifying the roloaso of mortgages), and Pensions 811 (Mr Shrimski). Licensing Act Amandmont Bill. Mr Shrimski, in proposing the Licensing Act Amendment Bill, said that sly grog selling was a common cause of ruin to young men and women. At. the present, time these oHbnce* were only punished with small lines. Messrs Sruir, llnitsTiioirsß, O'Connor, and Steward spoke to tho question. The latter moved as an amendment, that the bill bo rend that day six months, but re cognised the neccs.-ity for some measure of the kind, and said if Mr Shrimski would undertako to modify the extreme penal clauses ho would not object to tho second

reading. Mr Hours supported it warmly, lie said tho measure was very much wanted, and he congratulated Mr Shrimski on introducing a bill so comprehensive and to the point.

Mr Coxollv could not believe any of the principles affirmed in the bill —namely, that everyono guilty of sly grog-selling should bo imprisoned for ono month, making the landlord criminally liable for the ants of his servants, and refusing appeal—should bo attirmed by that Houso.

Mr Gmoo said tho House ought not to ignore tho fact that the law was systematic ally broken.

Mr W. F. BUCKLAXD said it might best be called a Bill for the Encouragement of Perjury. It was already a difficult thing to get witnesses in licensing cases, but this would, render it impossible. There was ample power under tho present Act to sup press sly grog-selling, and it was effectually stopped at Auckland.

After further discussion the House di vided, tho bill being shelved by ."!) to -0.

MINING NEWS.

Thames, this day. Adelaide.—Williams, tributer, crushed 23 loads for tho return of 30iozs gold.

Caledonian.—George, tributer, banked 6}ozs gold.

Kuhanui Hill.—Grubb, tributer, ob taincd "io*. 14d«ts from a parcel of speci mens.

A special meeting of tho Parnell Licen sing Court was held at iiodii to-day, when extended licences for the three hotels until 11 o'clock were granted

Tho bodies of the two women drowned by the floods at XV oodvillc have been recovered. One of them, Mrs McKenzie, has relatives at the Thames, and was well known to many in Auckland district.

The Whan River Regatta which it is proposed to hold on Prince of "Wales's Birthday is expected to include tho race for whaleboats built according to the Auckland Regatta's dimensions, two races for string test gigs, a champion sculling race, two contests for Rob Rob canoes, a dingy race, two district punt races. Four boats are ci pectcd to go from Onehunga to this Re gatta, and the Auckland rowing clubs aro also likely to contribute largely in this res pect. Tho prizes are to be fixed about three weeks before the Regatta comes off. They should .be worth competing for, as stibscip tions are already coming in, and should allow the Committee to hold out spocial induce ments in tho shape of money awards. Mr J. Baker is secretary of tho Regatta Com mittee, which comprises representatives of nearly all the Auckland rowing clubs. The Brick and Tile Company has granted the Committee use of their ground, sheds, and wharf at the Whan for use on Regatta Day.

In another column will bo found a notice of proposed byjaws for the management of Northcote Road district, which arc to be approved at a meeting to be held next month.

Several additions have to be made to the programme which appears elsewhere of musical and literary selections to be c.veci.tcrt at the meeting ot the Rationalistic Association in the Lome-street Hall to-morrow evening. The first item will bo a pianoforte duct from "La Fille dv Regiment," liy Miß3 K. Campbell and Mr W. H. webbe, instead of the solo advertised. Miss Amy Johns (of Willmott's Dramatic Company) will sing '.' Ehrin on the I- bine," Miss Crawford (leading lady of tho same Company) will also sing, and Miss May Thornton and Mr Tecoe (both members of the Dramatic Company) will recite; On this occasion also, Mr Isaac Selby delivers his farewell lecture in Aucklaiid, the subject ot discourse being, " Is tho Bible tho Highest Guide to Morality ?" The admission to the meeting is ftee.

SECOND EDITION. THE WRECK OF THE LAST. INGHAM.

Itcecue of Three Missing Men,

(ity TELKGKAPH. —PRESS ASSOCIATION).

Picton, this afternoon. T;he launch has returned with tho three lost men belonging to the Lastingham. They were picked up by tlvo sehnope'- Maude Graham yesterday morning, and afterwards landed at ijr Jones's station, whence tho launch brought them.

Wellington, this day,

THE FIJfDINS PF THE QOTJRT.

The Court, at the close of the enquiry, faun 4 t)jat an error of jj-dgmpnt was pom ijrsitted by the master in standing on tapij too long, apd this, in $xa_ opjipgp, Ipd tfi tho disaster. JJo blam.e is attached to tjjc officers before the Couyt,

CABLEGRAMS.

[CABLE.—COPYRIGHT.]

Fire on an Australian Steamer.

London, September 5.

A fire broke out aboard the Lusitania, for London, shortly before the vessel reached Diego Garcia. It U understood that the charcoal around tho refrigerator ignited. Tho liro was extinguished in a few hours, nnd no serious damage was caused. Diplomatic Mooting. Vif.nn'a, September 4.—Karl Noi'thbrook, who is now ru route to Egypt to investigate tho position of affairs in that country on be half of the British Government, paid a visit to Count Kalnoky, the Austro-Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs, to-day. The interview, which lasted some time, was of a most cordial nature. London Wool Sales. London, September -I.—At to-day's auction, 1I,.!00 bales were catalogued, and a firm tone prevailed. Sydney tleece wools aro now irregular. Up to date, llt.'Alu bales have been withdrawn from sale out of Ii'Jo.OOO catalogued. Tho Bank of Australasia has declared a dividend at tho rate of 1-1 per cent, per annum for tho past, half-year, and carries forward and places to the reserve fund £'24,000. The cargo of frozen meat ex Mataura is of fair quality, hut not equal to the mutton landed from, the British Queen, which is considered excellent. The homeward mails per Lusitania, from Melbourne July 25, were delivered to-day. Melbourne, this day. The New Guinea Question. Mr Service, Premier, has telegraphed to the Agent-General at London, urging the necessity of expediting the annexation of Now Guinea, in view of the colonising actively now manifest on the part of Ger many and Austria. Tho Coses of Small-pox. Sydney, September 5. —All tho small-pox patients are progressing favourably. Australian Marlcot Reports. Syi>\i:y, September 5.— Now Zealand wheat, per bushel, 4s .Id ; New Zealand oats, 2s 8d ; maize, 4s Gd. The Sugar Com pany's No. 1 pieces, per ton, £31. Aoelaihe, September s.—The wheal market is quiet and nothing is doing. To days quotations arc :—Adelaide, Its 7d to 3sßd; outports, Us Id to 3s , r)d. Flour: Town brands, £8 17s (id ; country ditto, £" 17s Oil. Thero is no change to roport in freights.

FRANCO-CHINESE WAR.

(BY CABLE- COPYRKIIIT.)

Paris, September 4. Despatches from China state that Admiral Courbot is watching for an opportunity to destroy tho remainder of tho Chinese licet, and that, after effecting this object, ho will occupy the island of Formosa with a strong force of troops. The bombardment of Keluug by tho French licet has been re turned.

THE DARWINIAN DOCTRINE.

Yesterday's Telegram Erroneous.

(by cable.— corramiiT),

Sydney, this day. I'IIOFEMSOnLIVERSIIiOE, of tho Sydney Uni versity, states that the telegram sent to tho meeting of the British Association at Mon treal was to the following offect:—" Mr Cildwell linds that tho monotrematous mammals of Australia are oviparous, but that their ovum is mesobhistic, or only partially germinal."—[This supports ihe view wc have taken in an article elsewhere that " viviparous" was a telegraphic error. - Ki.. E.S.]

INFANTICIDE

Tin' hearing of the evidence against the young person Knnly Rosina Smith, charged with felonioush- killing her infant daughter. Kinily Wilton, a: I'arncll, on the Kith ult..was re sumed jisterday at the Police Court, before His Worship the .Mayor.—Mr Hrnssey appeared for the prisoner.—Sergeant (iainhlo examined the witucsser tor the jirosccuiion. The evidence of Mr and Mr.i Wakcliam was nearly tho same, as that given at the inquest before the coroner (Dr. I'hilsonl. Mrs Wukclumi was cross-examined aisome length by Mr lirassey. Slio was the first person to see Miss Smith or Mrs Wilson on I'eturniiu through the rain, fche did not inter fere between the nurse and the accused. Was not of a meddlesome disposition Had enough to do to mind her own business. (Here the witn-S-1 became so excited that she nearly fell into ttio arms of the constable, and for a short time left the box). Witness returned, and the cross-examination proceeded. Mrs Wilson was often in tears. Witness nnd her husband had no altercation, She never assaulted her husband. tJoml heavens! do you think Wake ham would ever allow it (— Mr Braucy: Were you not. twice brought to t'ourt for assaulting your husband (Witness: Your Worship, am I compelled to make public nil my prirate all'aii-s' -Hid Worship: This is a public plaee.-liy Mr lirassey : She knew what was what in the case. being the mother of live little ones.—Mary I.iddlc, wife of .lames l.lddle.stonema ion. North street, Newton, deposed that she know the prisoner. Rented two rooms from her in Karangahape l-.oad, Newton, in April last. Knew her as Miss Smith. She kept a small drapers' shop. Left the houcc. Miss Smith had called several times. Her hmi'.iand's cousin was making furniture fur her. On the IMh Augn-t tho accused called nnd said thero was a man at tho gate (Mr Wakcliam), who would not believe that a baby had been taken away unless she (witness) would say that Mrs Wilson and a baby hud gone away to Camb ridge that morning. She objected to tell n falsehood, not knowing a Mrs Wilson. She did not know abou the baby until Mr Wake ham told her. Slie would not tell Mr Wakeham where the baby was. She pressed witness's foot with hers. hut the would not say yes, and prisoner fainted. — Cross-examination: John Owen Lord, Registrar of lli|-|hs, Deaths, and Marriage's, gave evidence as to the registration of the birth of I ho child on the lSth August.— The further inquiry was adjourned until Tues day next.

PONSONBY ROWING CLUB

Tiirkb was a large attpndancc at tho annual meeting of the Pontonby Rowing Club, which was held last evening at the Club Hotel. Mr J. P. Morpeth occupied the chair. From a state ment of accounts read, it appeared that the re ceipts during the last year wero UHS 10s id, and tho expenditure £113 l'Js'lld, leaving a balance of £1 IDs fld. The assets were set down at £:30 IDs. ltd, and the liabilities at £70 Bs, leaving a bilanceof . 101 lis lid. The Chairman said that the stock had been valued under cost, and only thoso subscriptions which were considered good were retained us assets. The Club had disposed of the old boats, and had purchased two racing whale-boats, suitable for any weather. lie suggested that for the ensuing season several light pleasure boats should bo secured for the use of members who did not care to lake part in rowing contests. Tho following officers were elected :—Presidents: Messrs William Swonson and T. Peacock, M.IIR. (re-elected). Vice-Presidents: Air 'I. MUsefleld, Captain Harrison, and Mr V. li. Lewisson (re-elected). Captain: Mr J. P. Mor peth (re-elected). Deputy-Captain :Mr Miller. Secretary: Mr R. Witt; Treasurer: Mr H. I). Morpeth; Committee: Messrs Ednnn's, 0. McKay, Leatham, Henderson, and Lang. It was agreed that the Club should borrow tIOO lo nay off existing liabilities, and that the balance ba devoted towards procuring, fhst, oars and other necessary appliances, and next, a now string-test gig. Votes of thanks wero passed to Mr Culpnn. Secretary, and other outgoing offi cers, for their services during the past year. This concluded the business.

ABBOTTS OPERA HOUSE

" Crutch and Toothpick." which was repro duced at tho Opora Houso last evening, is, no doubt, one of tho strongest pieces in the repertoire of tho VVillmott Dramatic Company, and its performance wa3 consequently the most perfect Which wo havo yet been treat-id to by this combination. Tho play went smoothly and well from start to finish, and very frequently produced enthusiastic applause. Since the Company appeared in " Crutch and Toothpick," a few wcekß ago, a slight alteration has been made in the cast of characters, so that Mr Wil kinson last evening took the part of Alderman Jones, instead of Jellieoe. as fornieiiy. aiid Mr Marter represented the latter. Mr Toece was McFibbins, and Mr Ualfe Jnbbln3. Mr Wil kinson's change had the effect of mak ing Aldornun Jones a n.ost amusing and interesting character, who was extremely ?-ts_?"< "-nd tt regular " terror" on busi ness; but while i.l>cr„ w,~,q a decided. s;>-j)"ova. montin this part, thoro wao a1 sSiftifAailing-'oir inJollicoe. Mr Marter played well, biit did not make the character at all prominent, and after IJr Wilkinson's; intcrnrr-lalinn his .li_.Hi._oe fell rati,or' flat. Si c- I'eeuO as MOlfi'dbiils, 'ana Mr Balfe as'Jubbitis, provoked intense amusement, both having evidently bestowed much/attention in preparation for their respective parts. Messrs Rede and Simmonfls, as before, were also very successful, both having congenial parts, while Miss Crawford, Miss Liiwccnce, and Miss Wyatt gave due prominence to their respective parte: Tho comedy was followed by tho' farce, "Founded on Facts," which causod great amusunjent ' ■.. ■ ......»,. '"Formosa" To-night, The great sporting drama, ''Formosa," by Uion Boucicault, is to be presented this evening, and Vi ill introduce a very large number of characters; also, some"oe.r,ij_i'iU scenery, which has been specially pointed by Mr Thornton. One leaturo of tho performance in the first act wi}l Ije the " O-jfqid Eight" song, which is sung by thp repr^spntstjvcß(hpostuhie, spiel thp scene of tho boat race pn the riyer Thames, wjiile at tjie ei}d of the jast act, the cpnipptihg uoats'iylll .bp sp.cn pulling apross. Qn this qccdoipn lir I WiJbjjbtt will limeiff fgr the fjrdt time in* Auck land";}:} Bfib Sailed ___*_;.», lija .jipqthsj; parts ajso apjiear to be judicious! j- ciibt.

A TERRIBLE STORY.

The Wreck of the Lastiiigkani

AGONISING SCENES.-FEARFUL

EXPERIENCES.

(BY TELEGRAPH—SPECIAL REPORTER).

Wr.M,n;<;To>.', this day

Tin; loss of the barque Lastingham is one of the most painful and distressing that it has ever been my ill-fortune to

record. The vessel was near the com pletion of a lengthy voyage, all hands wero congratulating each other upon the pleasant prospect of being at their journey's end before another '24 hours had elapsed, and the possibility of the catastrophe did not occur to the mind of anyone. It was under these circumstances that weather of a truly fearful description was experienced, and tho vessel was driven into a bay on tho Ice shore, and the land which should have been so welcome was seen in such a position and at such a time that could only inspire fore bodings and fear. Tho gale increased, tho vessel could not weather the point, and was gradually driven on to the lee shore. The scene on board appears to havo been a pain ful one. Whore all had been hustle in anti cipation of early and safe landing, everyone was now waiting with.btffed breath for tho shock which would^Wr the death knell to many, and would also mark tho destruction of another noblo ship. The shock came quite soon enough, and tho hands, number ing more than thirty souls, gathered together in groups to await their doom. Ono party was assembled in the forepart of tho vessel, and finding tho ship's head hud run on to rocks, they clambered on to tho bowsprit and reached land in safoty ; others who wero aft wero un aware of the good fortune that had befallen their comrades, remained on tho poop until all chance of escape was gone, and perished with the ill-fated ship. It is always easy aftor a catastrophe such as that which has just sent a thrill of horror through the length and breadth of the colony, to sit down calmly and suggest what could and should have been done In tho present case, readers would naturally ask why one of those who escaped over tho bowsprit did not return and inform his less, fortunate fellow-pas sengers of the chance of safety within graxp.Tlio only explanation is, that all being confusion on board, the official order being every man for himself, what was everybody's business was nobody's business. It is ad mitted that life is dear, but had anyone on Monday night retuniod to tho poop after the discovery of an avenue of escape, he would almost certainly havo secured the rescue of all, and at tho same time performed a noblo action that would havo deserved a place in the brightest records of heroism. Thoso who reached the shoro appear to havo called frequently to their comrades on board, but the howling storm must have drowned their voices, and tho vessel drift ing oil'the rock on which she had previously been resting, broke up in deep water, lSsouis including five passongers, and the captain and his v ifo—perished with her.

Somo Vory Affecting Scones arc reported. Tho captain, who was an elderly man without a family, retired to his cabin, where his wifo was when the ship struck. Ho was afterwards seen with his arms round her waist, wait ing for death, which so soon overtook both of them. Thero wore partings between those on board and the mon who swam ashore which aro saiil to have been fearful in their sadness, tho poor fellows uttering their " God bless you " and " \Yo shall meet again " with husky voices and a depth of feeling that showod their hope was beyond thegravo. Thostoryof theprivntionsendured by tho crow on land arc also very paiufuL They wore exposed for two nights with very few garment.--, and thoso saturated with water, to tho violence of a terrible storm ; so terrible, in fact, that all tho men describe it as the worst over experienced Apart from the discomforts already men tioned, many of thorn had cut feet, ami contused bodies, and their condition when rescued was deplorable in the ex treme. Tho papers hero published very meagre accounts of tho occurronco ; and impressed with the fact that the people of Auckland would be eager to obtain the fullest possible particulars of tho catas trophe, I went oil' to the ship Zealandia, where the survivors had been taken from the ketch Agnes, with the object of seeing tliem. The chief oflicor refused, as he said, to allow the men to bo tampered with until the inquiry had been held. This was scarcely satisfactory, and returning on shore, I was courteouslysupplied by Captain Habot (Shaw, Savillo's ships husband) with an order authorising mo to interview the men, and ask any questions, provided those did not atl'ect tho navigation of the vessel. Armed with this document, I returned to the ship, and

Interviewed Each oi tho Men in turn. Tho statements of thoso whoso narratives were given aro heart rending. The men wero dressed in garments given by the master of tho ketch, and to that worthy skipper (Jensen) all appear very grateful. Thoy all showed the effects of the recent ex posure. Robertson (who is a very intelli gent man, and from whom I got the chief narrative) had been actacked by cold shivers, and despite all his efforts, he could not get rid of them. Tho authorities dis played neglect in not having tho men taken ashore to more comfortable quarters, and havinc the injured attended to. One poor little fellow named Fryer (the -toward) was badly bruised on the leg, and the white of the cyo was contused to such an extent that medical assistance was desirable. It was pitiable to witness the delight of the poor follows when they got their letters from home, and to listen to their lamentations that othors had perished and letters addressed by loving hands from the mother country must bo returned with the tcrriblo endorsement which under the circumstances is rendered necessary. The most complete and interesting narrative was that given me by the ship's car penter, a man of some $0 years of age, named Robert Robertson. Ho was on deck some timo prior to the catastrophe, and ho witnessed tho whole of

The Sliooltlng Oconrronce.

His own language is given as nearly as possible,' the statement being .is follows. Hesays : —*■ The weathoron Mon day night was very bad indeed ; there wero very heavy squalls and exceedingly thick weather. Land was reported on tho port bow about a quarter past eight o'clock, and all hands were to stand by with their oilskins in case thoy were required. The land wo saw was .luckson'a Head, which was about 4 miles distant, When the land was sighted, wo cut adrift tho foresail and made sail. After standing on about half an hour, land was reported right ahead. Wo immediately kept away from land, but wore driven towards thcloeshorc by squalls, which were frequent and terrific. Gradually wo reached the shore, and as the ship would neither steer nor weather, we saw wc would not clear the bay into which we had been driven, and all on board know that the ship was going to 3tiike. It was very thick and dark at times, and the land could only bo seen with the greatest difficulty. The ship struck about 10.30 p.m., but not very heavily. I was at the main braces as sisting to square the yards at the time. I heard someone sing out, ' Lay forward,' and running forward 1 found that h.or jibboom was oyer the odgc: of tiro rocks, and that land was vory close indeed. The bow of the vessel had, in fact, run right up on the rocks. Somebody said that the chief officer had called out "JEvery man for himself," but I did not hear that order given. "When I ran forward, the majority of the people on board were gathered on the poop, wbich, of course, forms the after part of tho vessel. I was with the man on tho look-out, Riddle, the steward, and One or two others,' were scrambling out on to tho jibboom, and I followed them. I found no difficulty in following their example, and dropping from the jibboom on to the rocks, nnd as these rocks abutted from the mainland, I was soon ashore, and exposed to no further danger. A number of men had escaped by this means previously, and weye standing on t-llg yqp» waiting for others 'to came/ The second'mate and several banes "followed over the bow^. People on fjonvd v.-ei-o i-qnning about hi ail affections at thp timo, the mato having given t^e order

!' Every Man for Ifiirtsoif.'i Wo called to a group of peot Ij on the poop with tho object of getting them to save themselves as wo" had done, but they did not appear to bo ablo to l\gar \\s. I lielicve the grdup consisted of the captain, passen gers, arja some of tho crew. The captain's wife vyas iiot on deck, bttt I belieye she was in the companion. Wo all called, out ar'ain and again to get these people to come iorword, but they remained on the poop, and our voices wore probably dtewned by the f.par. of tjjo storqi. The shinlmng on the rook fpr th^ee oy four pinutes, and then the how clipped off th.fi led.ge p,n wh,ich, jt was rqating.nnd tha vessel waa v\ (jeep water. A terflbje surf poin,monced to, brpnk over her, and shp Cftme broadside pfl, apa although not bumping much, rolled heavily

and began to settle down. We could still sco the outlines of the people standing aft, and could also make out several human forms iv the main rigging. We shouted to them to

Jump Overboard and Swim Ashore. Several did so, but we could see nothing of thorn. It is questionable whether any others followed, and it is more likely that they preferred to take their chance on board. Several men made the attempt to reach tho shore with ropes round their bodies, but the surf was so strong that, after being exhausted, they were compelled to call out that they could not go further, and were hauled back again. Scones of a distressing and painful character wore wit nessed every moment; and although in safety ourselves, we were wholly unable to assist our fellow-passengers. This con tinued for some time, and then the ship commenced to break up. The deck-house was tho first to go. A heavy sea broke aboard and carried away the deck-house, taking it. along the deck and then overboard. Other equally heavy seas followed in rapid succe.-sioii, and made clean breaches over the ship. All the boats on the bridge were smashed up and carried away and the main awlmizzcn-ioyal mast fol lowed. It was evident that in a few minutes the ship must go down altogether, and again and again we called to those on board to jump overboard. It was just at this time that some of our party found that Groves and Fryer, a seaman and apprentice, were being washed ashore, nnd as sisted them to a rock on which wo were. They had been carried into a creek where the water was calm. We could sco that as the ship was lying broadside on,she had formed a kind ot breakwater to a small creek close by, and within this space the water was comparatively smooth. Our reason for urging those on board to jump overboard was that they would havo been pretty sure to have been able (o swim through this calm water and reach the shore. The blindinir spray rolling off the ship and the extreme blackness of the night no doubt prevented them from seeing this haven. Very soon alter the ship began to break up she took a heavy list to seaward, and the result was that her docks were much more exposed to the heavy seas that were breaking in. The disas trous effect of this change in position was soon apparent, tho mainmast being carried away in a very few moments. We could still make out people in the afterpart of the ship, and could distinctly Hear Their Calls for Help, but it was impossible for us to render them any unless they managed to roach tho shore themselves. Tlie weather was so thick, too, that, although people wero not fur from us, wc could not tell who or what they were, and could scarcely distinguish even the on'linos of their figure. Tho ship con tinued ' o break up rapidly,and the foremast soon followed the mainmast. It toro up the decks and fell with n terrible crash in a son ward direction towards which tho vessel had a lint. The sea was covered for some dis tance with cargo and all descriptions, of wreckage, and cases, portions of deck work, &<:., wero lloating with large quantities into the creek. These were watched anxiously by our party in the hope that some of the crew or passengers might bo clinging to them, but in vain, The painful scene continued for a short time longer, and then the ship made two or three heavy lurches, and

Disappeared Wholly from View beneath the water. The mizzen-mast was still standing. Wo could see people going down with the vessel, and could still hear cries. Very littlo more than an hour elapsed from tho timo the ship struck until she went down. We remained where we were from that timo till daylight, watching the surf, floating wreckage, and rocks, to toe if anyone was washed ashore, but we wero doomed to disappointment. None but tho two already referred to were brought ashore by the surf. We made a further search for dead bodies at daybreak, but ilid not find any. A tremendous amount of cargo ami wreckage was Moating about at the foot of tlie rocks. Thero was, un fortunately, no beach. If there had been wc would havo managed to save some of tho things from the vessel, but as it wai WO could nut. We required food, but the j heavy sea prevented us getting any of the wreckage up to tho rocks. We mounted n hill soon after daybreak, or it would be more correct to say that wo crawled up it. The task was a very dillicult one. as wc wero all stiff, andcold, andnunibed. Theclimbing of the hill spemed terrible the first time, although we did not seem to think much of it afterwards. We at once hunted over the island —at least we thought it was an island then--in search of some human habitation, but could not find any. We were hungry, but our anxiety to be rescued was so great that wo did not feel hunger so much, toon alter 10 o'clock that forenoon we saw a steamer outward bound,and made signals to her with a counterpane tied to a stick, by waving our hats, and also by singing out. I cannot say whether those on board saw us. Wc were repeatedly disappointed in this respect, during the course of the day no less than four other steamers passing within sight of us. We repeated our signals every timo, but as no response was made, I sup pose they were not seen. It was pre viously agreed that we should divido our selves into several sections, and meet together in the evening, when wo could compare notes. This was dono; one party vent down to the wreck to continue the search ; another proceeded to a point in tho hopo of being able to attract the at tention of passing vessels, while it was arranged that a third should go some dis tance inland, in the hope of finding a human habitation. Evening found us at the appointed rendezvous ail thoroughly dispirited and disappointed with the day's exertions, nnd Wet, Cold, and Hungry. Those who went down to the sccno of the wreck were very unfortunate. The sea was still too rough to enable them to pick any thing up in tho shape of food from the wreckage, and as nothing eatablo had been discovered on the island, the prospect was far from agreeable. Wo found great diffi culty in obtaining water. The third party had not even been so successful ns the others,as they had lost one of their number. It appeared that after going some distance they saw somo sheep, but as thoy were fatigued and had no boots, they, with ono exception, did not attempt to follow them. The exception was a man named Ward, who was convinced that if there were sheep in the neighbour hood, then there must also bo people to take care of them. He therefore pushed on in the hopp of finding some track, and the others came back.

We Did Not See Him Again, and our number was then reduced from fourteen to thirteen, Our several ex periences wero related to each other at the spot indicated as tho rendezvous on the lee sidoof the island. There were a few trees at this spot, and as tho rain continued to como down in torrents,wo took refuge under the protection they afforded from the weather. The falling rain was very slight, but we were thankful even for that. We would have lighted signal fires on the-head, but none of our party had any matches, and consequently we wero without any chanco whatever of attracting tho attention of vessels. Between dusk and daybreak last night was ono of the worst in my experience. It blew and rained terribly, and was bitterly cold. Wo slept under tycw, or at least wo could not sleep, but hung around waiting fp,r- morning. Wc wero subjected to extreme exposure, few of us having very much clothes. Some, in fact, had only their shirts and trousers j others wore more fortunate in having boots and hats. What clqthoa wo had were saturated with water, both on Monday and Tuesday nights, On Wednesday morning tho weather broke! and turned out fine. Wo again divided ourselves into parties on the same prin ciple as -fro had adopted on the previous day. Some went to the wreck, others to Jackson's Head, and tbe remainder went inland. I formed one of the party that went to the wreck. The sea had moderated by this time, and we found a 41b piece of perk, two 41b. tins of oatmeal, and several packages of corn'lour. Theheads were out of the oatmeal tins, andtho provisions gener ally were danu^e',' by aea-water. That did not, however, trouble us in our famished condition. Having been

Fully Forty Hours Without Food, wo partook of some of the things at once, and then staitad ba,?k to the rendezvous. Although H was $hch very early \i_\_ fa day, wc did not reach the en campment until 4 o'clock. The others re turned about sundown, when a limited supply of provision,.*) was given round* every man getting an equal quantity, and only one tin, of oatmeal and a portion of pork and cornflour being used.. The reports from other parties we.ro S ot so .satisfactory as that which we had to »ive in. Those at :the Head had not seen the sign, of a vessel, while others had not oop^e aorosa (,^ e g jg n of a human b,e;ng. They had kept a look out tor- Ward, wh.o left tl;eir. on the previous day, bu.t did not see anything or him. Our clones h.qd dried by thi's.tia\o, and we \vere ra,qra co,nifoT^b.lo. than we had been. Hav ing _v_\ dflwn a quantify of awujh, we bruit _ uhanty, f,nd being thoroughly warn out and exhausted, we all slept soundly that night. -On, Thursday

•morning wc distributed the last tin of oatmeal and tho remainder of our pork. Our meals having concluded, two of the men, named Chalmers and Alvarez, proposed to proceed inland, as they had boots and were able to walk, while others not being so well off, could not. They started off, unconscious of the fact that Assistance was Close at Hand, and we have not seen them again. Several of our party went back again to the wreck, and the remainder returned to the point- While these latter were in the act of rig ging a pole they saw a ketch, which afterwards proved to be the Agnes, standing right up for Jackson's Head. They signalled to her, and whan she came under the lee of the island wo were delighted to see the little craft come up in the wind, and did not require the captain to wave his hands to tell us that wc were seen at last. The ketch lowered her boat, which came to the lee side of the land and took our party on board. She then stood some distance along the shore and picked up three others at tho scene of the v. reck, ami so on till eleven were on board. Two who had gone inland that morning, nnd Ward, who had stKiyed away on Wednesday, made tip the number of fourteen who had landed from tho wreck. The ketch sailed along the coast a considerable dis tance, but saw nothing of the three missing men. She then bore up for Wellington, which was reached about 7 o'clock 0:1 Friday morning." Robertson concluded this statement with a request that I would give Captain Jensen and the crew of the Agnes credit for their extreme kindness to them. They were sup plied with all the clothes on board, with food, and with everything else they re quired. Everything was done that could minister to their comfort or alleviate their sufferings. Narrative of a Rescued Boy. Tho next of the crew whom I interviewed was Arthur Fryer, a bright and plucky lad of fifteen. He related his experience as follows :—"1 was aft on the poop when the ship struck. The shock was pretty hard, but we were expecting it. Some one told me just after tho ship struck that the mate and some others had got ashore. A lot of seas came over the poop, and we hauled the companion over so as tc keep tho water out of the cabin. Immediately after the vessel struck the captain went down into his cabin where his wife was, anil did not come up again. Mrs Morrison had been on deck j about ten minutes before we struck. The land was very close to us. Seas commenced to rush over tho poop. As I went into the rigging a man named Watson made an attempt to take a line ashore by swimming with a rope round his body, but he could not manage it, and they had to haul him bar;k again. Then I saw a seaman named (Loves jump overboard and save himself by swimming. The sailmaker also jumped overboard, but I did not sco him again, and I was told he had been drowned. I remained in the rigging about a quarter of an hour with Mcaeking, Barnell, Crondon, and another boy named l'iercc. The seas were then coming over the vessel co heavily that myself and others wero nearly jerked off the ropes. I said to one of the men ' I will try and swim ashore' I then said good-bye to him, and as I was going to jump a big sea came and washed me overboard. I was under water for a time, and was carried round and round just as if I was in a whirl pool. I could not attempt to swim, the sea being terrible. It carried me along with it, and then lifted me up and deposited me on some rocks a little way from shore. My eye was scratched by a rock, which caused a nasty cut, but the ball of the eye was not injured. The rocks on which I was were about fifteen yards from the shore, and were a little abovo the surface of the water. I could not sec anyone on shore, but could sco tho shore itself. High seas wore coming towards me.and would have swept mo off the rock where I was, so I jumped into the water again and struck out for the shore. I swam to where sonic cargo was washing ashore, ami supporting myself by getting each elbow on a case, I was washed by the sea info a week where the water was calm. I could sco the men who had already reached the shore looking for survivors, and I called to them. Ward, ono of the seamen, handed mc a largo piece of wood, and hauled me ashore to where he was. 1 got upon the

rocks, and sat there all night. My leg was badly swollen, owing io the force of the blow when the sea washed mc against the rocks, and I could not go about." Fryer, who is still suffering from a bad leg, is a native of London. This is his first trip. He was transferred from the Exmouth, training ship, at Grayes, Essex.

Othsr Narratives,

Thomas Groves, an able seaman, was the next interviewed. He said ; ''I was at the helm at the time of the catastrophe. I knew the ship was going to strike. I could see there was no hope, as she could not possibly weather the point. She struck close to land, and I took oIF my clothes ready for an attempt to get on shore. I remained for some time on the poop with a number of passengers and crew, all of whom were drowned except Fryer. I stopped there about an hour, until I saw the ship wns breaking up. No one had been washed off up till that time. Two attempted to swim ashore; one was a sailor named Watson, and the other a passenger named Naish, both making the attempt from the poop with ropes lound thoir bodies. They were soon exhausted, and were hauled back again. Seeing tho ship was breaking up, I jumped overboard, and I swam all the way to the rocks. The ship was lying broadside on, and this made a bit of a harbour, and it was not so rough between the vessel and the shore. I swam to the nearest rock, and there I stopped for breath, I had been there about two minutes, when a sea came and washed me away again, and I struck cut for shore. I could hear the voices of those who reached land, but I could not see the people themselves, They had seen mc coming, and were there ready to i pick mo up. j Bow tho Captain Died. ; Before I left the poop I shook; hands j nnd said good-bye to all those who ' were gathered there. The captain and his wife were both below, and a few I minutes before I jumped overboard I went j down and asked the captain's advice. He i was sitting at the cabin table with his arms around his wife's waist. They were both sitting up to their bodies in water, and evidently waiting patiently for tho death , which was so soon to overtake them. The captain did not answer my question, so I wont upstairs again. It was then that I jumped overboard.

Tho other survivor whom I interviewed was John Riddle, the steward. Ho said, just, before the ship struck I asked the captain if he thought we could clear the land, and ho said we cot\ld not. AYhen she struck, I was slacking away the main braco. I at onco let go, and walked in tho direction of tho poop, but remembering that when a vessel struck forward the best chance of escape was forward, I changed my mind. I followed others, on to the bowsprit and dropped on to rocks. My fcot were so severely cut, that 1 could hardly walk. I W.'nt inland with tho party from which Ward separated himself, Before ho went lo asked another y.iau to go with him. He declined, saying it was better for them to keep together. W aid replied, "Everyman for himself," and went away. We did not sco him again.

Preliminary Inquiry.

(tIY TFXEOn.U'II.—riIKSS ASSOCIATION),

A preliminary inquiry has been held into the wreck before the Collector of Customs. John Neal, chief officer, said nothing worthy of remark occurred during the voyage until they mado land, and sighted Mount Bgmont, at 8 a.m, last Monday, the weather being fino with a strong breeze. At noon sighted Itapiti, with tho wind increasing and bringing rain. Shortened sail, and at 3 p.m. hove tho ship to. wind on the starboard tack, heading about W. by S. Kept this courso till 8.15 p.m., when land was sighted. It was blowing a gale, the weather thick, and the land seen was Cape Jackson, but did not know what land it was, Tho land appeared over lee quarter. We at once mado sail to clear it, and shortly after land was reported ahead. Wo then wore the ship to fittcrapfc to. clear the land first seen, but found that was impossible, for the land loomed two or three points on our weather bow. Wo then attempted to wear ship againi and in the act of wearing struck the land, and as all hope of saving the ship was gone every one tried to save himself by clambering ever the bows on to the rocks. The ship then canted broadside to sea, and the top hamper soon swept away. It was about 10 p.m. when we struck, and in the course of an hour or less the cries of those on board had all ceased and no trace of the ship could bo discovered. It was then properly my watch on deck, but all hands had been, on deck at respective stations from fa time of sighting land, at 8.15 p.m., and the wearing and management of the ship was Under tho captain's directions. At day light all that was to bo seen was a little wreckage, and on counting the hands only fourteen were found, John Leife Barton corroborated tho evidence of the fust saate.

POLITICAL GOSSIP.

BY TKLKGRAPK.-3PECIAL RKPOItTER fl Wellington, this day, | Tiik House seems to have settled down f steadily to work. There were very h* Ylf ladies in the gallery yesterday afternoon '- A and the proceedings were mostly of th'; ft I usual routine character. TH<> , '- I "-ne only ~ 1 " sparring " match occurred between Major'" I Atkinson and the Premier on the Cha' I manship of Committees. Tho usual cobk ■' 1 has been to suspend the standin» ordw! I that the Chairman of Committees"may L. *■ S elected. The Government did not do th y: ""A' f to-day, and Major Atkinson asked th ' i Premier to fix* a time for taking the rootin I Mr Stout declined, and said it must com' :' I on in its regular Order. Major Atkinson c* " S deavoured to get a time fixed, but th "' I Speaker interposed and flopped the dfa =' I enssion as irregular. ** , ( Tlio Wreck of the Lastlngham, | Mr ilursthouse, asked without noti™ I what had been done to rescue the men from If the wreck of the ship Lastingham, who hS 1 gone inland. Knowing the country U' | thought they might suffer great hardsbinA I unless succour was sent promptly. Th A!■ Premier replied that the Government hart &_ immediately telegraphed to the HarbocA-''l master at Picton to take experienced bnaF i 1 men in the steam launch to go to th r locality immediately. The rescued menV-I were being cared for by the Shaw, Savilln ' 1 Company aboard the ship Zealnndia. V; t Financial Proposals of the Ministry I In my anticipatory forecast of :____\\ I probable contents of the Governor's Speech A i I embodying the Stout-Vogel policy I jA'.t § eluded a measure dealing with sinkinp #1 funds. This was not mentioned in tha ''!"; 1 Speech, but I have reason to believe-'^ I it will form an important part of Sir >M I Julius Yogel'a financial policy. Bv'-'A' I utilising accrued sinking fund __¥m I charging interest accruing on works _y$M progic-s '.. .-... al account, a considerable AA-M sum wnl become available, and would i; 1 render any borrowing beyond the remain-" ■■ ing million of the three-million loan un A:l necessary. The accrued sinking funds in 7*' 1 the colony and London amount tnAm'i £2, 803, 303. The greater part (nearly W \¥ I millions and a-half) is invested in the '* 1 colony's own debentures. The remainder is -'' 1 partly invested in small colonial loans and— 'I partly in debentures of the neighbourine A I colonies. I am unaware of the exact "'■'■ : I nature of the intended manner of dealing,A-'f with these, but if power were given to Bell " 1 it would represent a very large addition t_W 1 the colonial indebtedness, being, in facfaSHl loan under another name. ' I Native Affairs. j Mr Hobbs has shown his dissent from tie-- ! action of the Government in forcing Mr-^ i Bradshaw (a Southern member who knows"?' nothing of the natives) as Chairman of tiielf Native Affairs Committee, by giving notice' f* of motion yesterday asking his name to fa'-fll discharged from the Committee. Mi- Hamlin's Appointment. W__\ The motion for tho appointment of Chair-11l man of Committees came on about half-"''1''1 past nine last night. Active whipping and■ pairing had been going on all night, some J of tho Southerners who had promised toAJI vote for Mr Hamlin being pressed very W hard by the other side to support Mr";-:■*■ Steward. Both Mr Shepherd, who proposed *l. I Mr Steward, and Mr Fulton, who pre- ;il poscd Air Hamllin, extolled the virtue* :m of their respective candidates. m__ Thompson (Auckland North), Col. Fraser, A' and other members indicated that they': ?s could not havo voted for Mr Hamlin if it had vlf been a party question. The division shewedAKf that Mr Fitzhcrbert, the Hon. Mr Buckley's brother-in-law, who has before enpponed'l^: the Atkinson Ministry, had given his sup port to the present Ministry. It was pretsflß well known that Mr Hamlin would win, but -■"■■' tho majority of fourteen was quite beyond'^B expectations. Somo of tho Government supporters are very sore at tho result of lost nighisl§| division. They were given to understand in- ■ ."' the evening that they had a majority of tir^Hg or three, and they now assert that they3fflg|§ were sold, J ;: jS__\\ Prospcotivo Legislation. •_ Sir George Grey has given notice of a bill- , *- to abolish the postage rates on newspapers A printed within the colony, and MrKfai^H herbert of an amendment to the Gniiiwg and ' 'A, Lotteries Act. Mr Beetham intends to asfc* :<sj| the Government if it is their intention to Jjfl amend the Registration of Electors, Act, AS 1879. Mr Turnbull's bill in reference to animals at tho Chatham Islands is with tlm object of rendering it unlawful to introduce rabbits or hares there, and to authoriso th& constables to kill all su,ch animals, Educational Returns. Mr Montgomery is moving for a retain showing the cost per scholar of primary education in New fe'.and, the Australian colonies, and England, and also the school ages in thestj places and in America. Maori Member of tho Cabinet I am told on good authority that the Gov eminent have decided to take a Maori : member into the Cabinet. Mr Ballance asked the native members to -cenßuhV amongst themselves and recommend one of their number. Thoy did so, and' decided on Wi Pore. The office is worth £409 a year, and gives him a seat in tho Cabinet. The Government have the power, if they, choose, to appoint two native membere.J|g|| Tho position was last held by Tomoana, , and since his resignation it has not been...- A Gigantic Petition. Tho Ngatiwhakane tribe have sent a petition U feet long to Parliament protest- . ing against Mr Fonton's bill re thet ThamMiSg Valley Railway, Trie North Island Railway Comnltte^ffl There is dissatisfaction respecting .^lnSf Committee nominated to report on the ronti^w : for tho North Island Trunk Railway. . Th|||| opinion of many is that the Governmental should have decided for themselves, and- ',* not referred it to a committee, aMjK that as tho Committee includes Uurie'e^Sj Auckland and three Wellington membwraH thore will simply be conflict of .iitewsllfflß It is said that the Committee was nxetfhllgj Mr Stout and Major Atkinson together.^AM^B if this bo so, opposition to it is consi&3rsaJ|3J useless. Nevertheless, it is pretty esrfai||ffi to be opposed. The Eighth Minister. The appointment of an eighth MinW|r|ll \ i will be strongly opposed by the Atkinson I party, and a division on the question issU^n Ito be pretty certain. Taxation "fteturns. Mr Macandrew ia moving, for-a rolnim showing. under- distinct headings, the con- -. tributions to the revenue by each provisof jaß from customs, stamps, land and V^V^Sm • tooc, beer tax, and territorial revenue; MfjiSj Native Potitlon. Wi Pero has given notice of alengthaß ■ motion, which declares that the adminifltn^^l tion of Native Land Courts is most nn**is§|l| factory; that the system of hearing cMMJ^Bj of lands in certain districts at places fjjtjjlg [ removed is wrong in principle ; tha|';^^| foes are so high as to debar the real O?'SSS : from prosecuting claims; and tlMtl|jJ§BH wrong for the Chief Judge to hear new,, ' claims, because the natives aggrieved nthisA decision have no appeal. Accumulation of Business. A Tho Order Paper now extends over seven , pages, and more than 150 petitions are awaiting consideration, J??s

THE CHOLERA EPIDEMIC.

FRIGHTFUL MORTALITY AT NAPLES. (BY CABLE—COrYKIGHT.) Naplis, September^ The cholera epidemic in this city is rap^'laß increasing, and the disease is assuming a . - most virulent form. Tho cases now number a hundred daily, and most of them termin ate fatally. The inhabitants of the c»W ffM are terror'stricken, and obstruct the Civil authorities and medical men in their efforts to stamp out the disease.

ANGLO AUSTRALIAN CRICKET.

London, September 4. The Australian cricketers commenced a - match against eleven of I Zingari at Scar borough to-day. The following orei th* ,;, names of the home team :—P. J. Do rara vicini, Christopherson, W. F. Forbes, Lord Harris, Hon. A. Lyttleton, A. H. PatersoD, . A. Q Steele, G. B. Studd, H. Whitfield. E. M. Hallow, and Comrill. Tho attend-; ance of spectators at the match was larger but the weather was cold and the wicke* heavy, owing to recent rains. The home : ( team went in first, and pot together 8 total •,,, ■ of 229, tha principal scorers being—Bod. A* .v. Lyttleton, c, 58; and W. F. FprfrffgjH : stumped, 80. The visitors Mien *Bmm^3 c!^H : ; their first innings, but had only scored runs, with one wicket down when tune^*^j

TH£ AiiC&ILAhL ft\miM* hIAR, SATURDAI SEPTEMBER 6, 1884

2



THE LIVER STIMULANT.-A COMPOUND EXTRACT OF EUONOMYN AND PODOPHYLLUM WITH TARAXACUM-IS INCOMPARABLY THE BEST TONIC FOR BILIOUS NESS, TORPID LIVER, DYSPEPSIA, FLATULENCE. AND LOSS OF APPETITE. 2S. 6D. PER BOTTLE, M MeWH'S, cww.s-*. Q\J*L*_.a SIM.Lt. MICKVMW) Special Advertisements. T> ICHMOND TTILI, 5 0 CHOICE ALLOT ME NTS FOR SAKE. ON EASY TERMS. J. T. BOY LAN, Goloniai, Bank. LITHOGRAPHS NOW READY. M R .Alfred Smith, ARCHITECT (■TBLLOW OF THE RCWAT, INSTITUTF), HAS REMOVED TO 18. BHORTLAND-STREET. T~)ISEASES Or THE EYE ARTHUR RICHARDSON. MD., Specialist and Operator on Diseases on the Eye, May be consulted at his residence, KARANOAHAPB ROAD (near the new Baptist Church). From 1 to I o'clock in the afternoon. DR. C. NEWBERRY COBBETT, M.8., MS.. EDINBURGH (Late Resident _ghysician,Accoucheur, Rotunda Heapital, Dublin, &c. &c), ALFRED-STREET, ALBERT PARK, Near Choral Hall. HDPBB or Consultation. At Hoaos: 9-11 n_m., 6-7, and 8-9 p.m. At Mr Ale kin's Pharmacy, Queem-street: 12-1, and t-5 p. in. Special practice in Midwifery and Diseases ot Women and Children. KMACKAY F R I P P, ARCHITECT. Removed te Melville's Buildings, High street, near Shortland-strest T> L A C X riASH MERES. J. COSGRAVE & CO. Beg to announce that they have RECEIVES 100 PIECES OF VERY FINE BLACK FRENCH CASHMERES (BOUGHT JOB). And In order to effect a Speedy Clearance, Save Marked them at a VERY SMALL ADVANCE ON COST. Special Attention is directed to this Line, as the ! Goods aro well worth Inspection, and ot PERFECTLY UNRIVALLED VALUE. \ I NOTE THE ADDRESS : J # C OS G RAVE & C O., 204 & 206, QUEEN-STREET. I_~EW ZEALAND SUGAR COMPANY JLI (LIMITED) Are now prepared to receive orders for their ' REFINED SUGARS. Delivered duty paid to any part of tho City ot Auckland, as follows:— NO. 1 £36 PEK TON. No. 2 £M No. 3 £27 „ Samples may now be seen at the Offices, Queen-street. J. E. BREWSTER, Kcragir WHY ABE AUL A.TX AH.U.R AN G I JjIMES NOT ALIKE? MRS Rj, SOMMERVILLE MttLINSRY WAEEROOMS Ind ' STBAW-WORKINU ESTABLISHMENT, Wellesley-strbkt, opposite Opera House. HRISTOFLE AND CIE, PARIS. Makers of Finest PLATEDWARE of all kinds, FORES and SPOONS heavily plated on hard, white metal. ClHßlSTOFlfflmakes only ONE QUALITY, the very best known. Each piece ouarantebd by the. name Christofle, and the weight of silver thereon stamped. Buyers wanting moi. value are ad |sedtoget CERISTOFLE'9 PLATE. Wholesale Aeenoy—" WO, .Elizabeth-street. Melbourne. JI



DON'T RIB IN WIS. HOUSBv^Bwa . M gat. •eara outrati ratal, bixt'isi. roa#.h<i__, IjtfA-bujp. j(icl>, «»U, iojet-U Xenatflioroo, tfoaa _ Co.. AgonU, Auck.l_.thJ.