SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER {S^owf &. 7.11 SUXSET.-This Evening, 6.10 SUNRISE.—To-morrow Morning, 6.1 _tOON_. AGE.-Full Moon, 12th, 7.19 a.m.

ARRIVALS.

Waitaki, s.s., Crawford, from 'Whangarei Venus, ketch, Neill, from Opotiki

DEPARTURES.

Macgregor, 5.3., Johnson, for Whangarei Penguin, s.s., Cromarty, for Fiji lona, s,s., Amodeo, for-Russell Kriomhilda, selbrfiaihurst, for Russell RingargoniS.s.s., Tozer, for Sydnoy

IMPORTS.

Per Ringarooma, from Sydney—673 mats and 268 gunnies sugar, 40 qr,-casks port, 10 cases whisky, and few parcels sundries.

EXPORTS.

® _>er Magellan Cloud, for Rockhampton - 90,000 ft timber.

Per Penguin, for Fiji—2.oooft timber, 170 tins biscuits, 10 packages, I'JO sheep,.l cow, 80 casks beef, 2 boats, 40 bags rice, 30 boxes candles, 62 boxes soap, 150 sacks lime, 103 sacks potatoes, 50 cases canned goods, and a quantity sundries.

Inwards Coastwise. — Atalanta, from Tairua, with 22,000 feet timber; Christina, from Russell, with 86 tons coal.

Outwards Coastwise.—Mariner, for Rus sell; Lake Superior, for Thames; Fanny Kelly, for Mongonui; Atalanta, for Tairua; Agnes Mai Lin, for Thames.

Tlio schoonorWelcomeis at present at Queens land expecting a cargo for New Zealand.

The schooner Aurora is undergoing a thorough ovorhaul on Mr C. Bailey's slip.

Tho brigantine Magellan Cloud has entered nut at tho Customs for Rockhampton, via Tairua.

The barque Planter, which left Hokianga for an Australian port, timber ladon, a few days ago, returned to that port yesterday. She was leaking badly.

Tho new schooner which Mr D. Gouk is build ing for Messrs Cruickshank and Co. is rapidly approaching completion. She has been planked, and is now been fitted out.

Tho s.s. Ringarooma left for Sydney direct late thi3 afternoon. Passengers—Mrs Stuart and the Mls3es Stuart, Mr and Mrs Crea and child, Mr and Mrs Stuart, Messrs Symons. Fry, Harper. W. J. Chissell, Howard, Cayrcn, Levy, Grainger, and Captain Webster.

The Waikato Coal and Steamship Company's s.s. Thomas Russell arrived at Port Said on Jan. 23, and should arrive at King George's Sound during the present week. Sho will ar rivohereabout tho end of this month.

The s.s. Waitaki arrivedUrom Whangarei at 3 a.m. to day. Passengers: — Messrs Mont gomery, Matthews. Bulicn, Cotter, Cash, Ruddle,. Lennox, Grey, Wa_kcr, McKcnzle, Mesdame3 Bullcn and children, Lennox and children. Grey and children; Cash, Babe, and W. £. Babe, Miss Babe.

Tlie s.s. Ringarooma, which arrived from Sydney late yesterday afternoon, brought the following passengers for Auckland :—Saloon: Rev. Archdeacon Willis, Messrs J. Jones, Myers, Wallaoe, J. White, Russell, Larrard, P. H. Ferguson. For Nelson: Mr Glasgow. For Wellington: Messrs XV. Harker, Bull, Ma cartney, and 33 steerage.

An inquiry into tho cause of tho recent wreck of the schooner Falcon at Patea was heard at the Wangarsui Court yesterday, before Mr R. Ward, R.M., and Captain Priest After lengthy evidence, their Worships decided that Captain Leslie, of the Falcon, deserved censure for not obeying the direction of the pilot, but that no blame attached to him when tho boat had gone ashore, as there was no means of fastening it to tho breakwater. Captain Leslie was ordered to pay the cost of the inquiry, £3 165. His certifi cate was lost in tho Falcon, but the Bench decided that a copy mfght be glvon to him.

Tho.barque St. Lawrence was taken alongside of tho ship Brenhilda this morning for the Eurpose of discharging a large quantity of allast, which she has on board. On Friday morning she is to be docked to permit of a survey. Tho vessel wasagood dealknockodabout during the gale encountered beforo her drrlval here, and the crew considered that the captain did a wise thing in running for tho nearest port. Indeed, it is stated that tho mon believed the condition of tho vessel was so bad that they would have insisted upon this stop. There has been some talk of sending tlia barque to Sydnoy to be repaired, but sho will certainly require extensive repairs beforo putting to Bca again, bo that it is pretty certain that any repairs required will bo effected at this port, Tho crew of the vessel have been paid off.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Russell, this day. — Arrived: lona and Penguin. Sailed: Penguin, for Fiji. Passenger: Mr Reid.

Wellington, this day.—Arrived: Ilaleione, ship, Parker, from London, after an line ventfifi passage of 102 days.

Whanqarei. this day.—Arrived: Macgregor, from Auckland, 7.30 a.m.)

KAIPARA SHIPPING.

Aratapu, this day.—Arrived: Pelican, scb, from the South; Robin Hood, brig, from Mcl bourn?.

Te Kopuru, this day.—Arrived: Vision, brig, from Sydney. ■ Heads, this day.—Arrived: Ansdoll, barque, from the South.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

This Day,

For Russell and Kawakawa, per Waihora, at

Matlb will Close as under :—

4 p.m. For Whangarei Heads, Whangarei, Kamo, and Mangapai, per Waitaki, at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m.

Thursday, 13th inst. For Waitara, etc., per Argyle, at 8 a.m. For Waiwera, Te Kapa, Craigieburn, Walk

worth, etc., per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 2.30 p.m. For Whangarei Heads, Kamo, Whangarei, and Mangapai, per Rowena, at 5 p.m. For Tauranga, Ohinemutu, and Opotiki, per

Wellington, at 5 p.m. Por Mangawai and Kaiwaka, per Ruby, at a p.m.

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

Meetings. Entertainments, Etc.

March 12, 1881,

Abbott's Opera House—Royal Comic Opera Company, 7.15 p.m. H.A.C.B. Society—Quarterly Meoting in St. Patrick's Hall, 8 p.m.

Deaths.

BAKER.—At Onohunga. on March 11, Alfred, infant son of Josian and Bridget Baker; aged 8 months.

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

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1884.

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

We are told that the Hon. Mr Mitchelson is actively applying tho pruning hook of re trenchment to tlie Department over which he is tho presiding divinity—and it is high time. The number of high-salaried de partmental officials in the Public Works Department whoso principal duty appears to be

" To draw tho vouchers for thoir pay Just to while the time away," is astonishing. We have before us tho ap propriations for tho current year, and from that interesting record we cull tho fol lowing facts, which give ample ovidenco of tho kindness of a paternal Government for its Civil Sorvants. First of all, in tho departmental head office there is an undersecretary drawing £650, an assistant under-secretary with £425, and an ac countant with a similar amount, xhc salary list of tho departmental head oliico totalling just £6,070 per annum. Then thero is a head ofHco for the North Island, with ten officials, who manngo to struggle through life on salaries ranging from £700 por annum downwards, and aggregating £3,917 a-ycar. The South Island has also a head office, tho offiotals of which draw £4,145 annually from the colonial rovonuo. Now, ono wouli havo thought that a departmental head office, with two othor head offices, costing tho colony upwards of £11,000, would havo been sufficient to satisfy'tho Tito Barnacles of tho ornamental variety. But no I Thero is an ornamental Colonial Architect's office, handicapped in tho race for wealth with £1,060 por annum, and another nest of what Mr Garrard would call "otlishus offishalisin " nro not too proud to draw £3,0000r £4,000 annually as tho officersof the Railway Departmental Office. Inthialntter department vulturo-liko doprcdations arc made on tho pttblicestato by tho cormorants of tho Civil Service A genoral manager keeps tho wolf from tho door with £1,000 per annum, an assistant general manager prays for a continuation of tho Atkinson regime every timo ho draws a monthly instalment of his £700 por an num salary, and a poor Under-Secretary slaves for a yearly pittanco of I_f>oO. Tho retrenchment already decided upon embraces tho abolition of tho exponsiyo sinecure office of Colonial Architect, with tho official satellites, and also tho extinction of tho useless Middio Island Public Works Department. Notices of dismissal have, it is said, been sent to theso Government servants with the exception of the chief ollieors, who will be rotained in somo other capacity. Thus Mr Blair, the Engineor-in-Chief for the Middio Island, is to receive the ap pointment of Assistant Engineer for the Colony, and the head of tho Colonial Architect's Office is to bo transferred to somo other easy billot. A rumour published iv the Wellington "Times " says that tho Registrar- General's Office is also to bo merged with another branch of the service and its ex penses thereby greatly curtailed. In brief, it is expected that the re-arrangements now being mado in the Civil .Service will securo a total saving of £30,000 a year, or moro. While we givo the fullest meed of praise to the wiolder of the besom of reform, we cannot but remark on the rottenness of the system which has allowed such monstrous misuse of pub lic money in the past. £30,000 a yoar saved in our future expenditure will bo matter for tho heartiest congratulation ; but tho tax-paying public will not readily forgive tho criminal laxity or barefaced favouritism which led to tho creation and continuance for so long of those uso- Ifiss sinecuro offices. If the Augean stablfls ore now to be cleansed, wo hope tho work will be carried out in tho thoro igh way in which it has been begun, and fthat no more unhealthy accumulations will be allowed to tako place.

Tub Russian advance in Central Asia has gone so far that Hor Majesty's Government have recognised tho necessity of asking whero it is to stop. In tho course of a debate in tho Houso of Lords it was pointed out that the Russian occupation of Merv brings tho Colossus of the North to the border of our Indian Empire, and it was intimated that pourparlers were proceeding between the British and Russian Govern ments with a viow to fixing the Russo- Afghan frontier. It has been well-known for years that the grasping and aggres sive ' Muscovite was casting longing eyes towards India, . and that his natural gate to that rich empire was through the treacherous and turbulent Afghan people. Russian gold, it is known, has already been used to spread dis affection in Afghanistan; and if tho Cossack Siordes once obtain a footing amid the fast nesses and defileß of that country, Britain's

"scientific frontier " is gone and India is at the mercy of Russia. Hence the need for the present action of the British Goveipment in calling upon Russia to define the limitsof hor recent acquisitions in Asia. No doubt tho wiiy Muscovites will quibble, and question Britain's right to meddle with Afghanistan ; but Hor Majesty's Government, if they fully recognise the importance of the situa tion, will bo firm in demanding a full understanding, and if necessary a formal treaty recognising tho natural boundaries of Afghan and Russian territory. In this way only will the safety of India be secured against an insidious approach, and an open attack sho has nothing to fear from.

England in Egypt.

Our cable news this afternoon conveys the intelligence that the English Government have yielded to the pressure of public opinion, nnd havo, temporarily at least, virtually assumed the Government of Egypt. A voto of half-a-million was promptly passed by Parliament for a British expedition to tho Soudan; and the False Prophet has now to reckon, not with the feeble and demoralised forces of the Khedive, but with the power of England. A few days ago it tvas reported that the Conservatives would resist supplies until a declaration of policy had been made, but the requisition of this vote must have satis fied them and have m.t with general.ap proval, for no mention is made of any opposition to it. The Khedive has had fair opportunity of shewing his ability to goyern Egypt, and has failed. No one can blame the Gladstone Cabinet for testing to the last extremity the capability of the country itself for self-government before committing England to an extensive and difficult war, from which nothing of value to the notion, can be gained, But it is now a question of self-preservation; the rule of Arab! Pasha, which led to the fitting out of the Egyptian expedition, is as nothing compared with the threatened eruption of Mohammedanism., along the shores of the Red Sea. Colonel Gordon's latest despatches shew that such is the feoling among the tribes North of Khartoum that the garrison of that city could not bo withdrawn without re-inforcej ment. England is therefore forced into the unpleasant work of teaching El Mahdi and his victorious hosts a lesson, and

if she should afterwards deem it right to jpiake such establishments in Lower Egypt as will avoid the necessity for eccentric interference l» Egyptian affairs in future— in shorty jf ,tljo .jpsppjisibility for the

government of the Khedive, which has now- been assumed temporarily, should become permanent, the pre dictions and wishes of a great many persons will have been brought to pass in spite of tho most honest plana and inten tions of the Government to the contrary.

It will be remembered that at a recent sitting of the Supreme Court, His Honor Mr Justice Gillies declined to grantthedis charge of a bankrupt in whose estate there were no assets. A decision of a similar nature was given to-day in the estate of Wm. Quinlan, His Honor pointing out that the object of the Act was to distribute estates amongst creditors, and not to re lease debtors.

Tlio salaries drawn by the officials of the Colonial Architect's Department, which it i. proposed to abolish, are as follows:—Chief draftsman (architect), £450; assistant, £350; accountant, £400 ; cadet to drafts man, £80 ; clerk to accountant, £155 ; out door inspector, £225. The last-named official also draws £07 annually from the Legislative vote. Thus for years the tax payers of tho colony have been annually taxed to the extent of £1,600 to support a department which is pretty unanimously voted useless.

Tlie presentation of the testimonial to J. M, Clark, Esq., will take place on Thurs day (to-morrow) at 2.30 p.m., in tho Now Zealand Insurance Buildings.

Mr Cowper, Resident Secretary for the Prudential Mutual Benefit Society, has removed to offices in St. Mungo's Build ings, opposite the Bank of New Zealand. A local committee of management has been formed, consisting of Messrs G. XV. Owen, Samuel Vaile, and W. R. Waddel (Mayor of Auckland), all well-known gontlemon and practical business men. Mr XV. Mar sell acts as district agent for Auckland.

Hnnlan, tho sculler, evidently intends exercising his muscles on tho voyage to Sydney, as he yesterday purchased at the stores of Wingnte, Burns, and Co,, a pair of heavy dumbells.

Dion Boucieault, whose engagement by Messrs Williamson, Garner, and Musgrovo for a colonial tour we announced yesterday, is one of tho oldest as well as one of tho most celebrated actors still in harness. But it is as a dramatist that ho is best known. Ho commenced his career as a play writer in 1841, whon ho produced "London Assurance;" "Colleen Bawn" first appeared in 1860, aud " Tho Octoroon" in tlio following yoar. In addition to thoso abovo montioned, tho best known of his dramas aro "Janet Prido," "Louis XL," "Flying Scud," "Conn the Sliaughraun," and " Old Heads and Young Hearts," As an actor ho oxcols in his tlolinoation of Irish character.

At tho annual mooting of tho Executive of tho New Zealand Order of Good Templars, held on tho Bth inst., in the Alexandra strcot School-room, Mr D. (loldto, presi dent, in tlio chair, tho returns of tlio vari ous lodges of tho ordor woro rocoived, showing thnt good progress had been mado during the past year. A charter had also boon granted for a now lodgo at Whan garoa (North), known as tho "Nil Dcs perandtim," making 12 lodges, all in active operation. Tho annual eloction of oflicors then took placo, and the following members worooloctod:—President, Bro. J. Lye; Vieo president, Bro. Syms ; Secretary, Bro. Broadribb ; and Treasurer, Bro. Cleaver, sen.

A gathoring in connection with tho Auckland Temperance Mission for tho pur ])oso of thanksgiving for tho recent Temper aneo victories was hold last evening in the Thoatro Royal, and was woll attended. Mr J. Bramo presided, and in his opening re marks said that both tho foremost workers in the movement nnd thoso outside of it Woro surprised at tlio complete victory of tho Tetnpernnco platform. Tho succoss in question ho attributed to tho inauguration of tho Gospel Tompornneo Mission. Mr Parker was tho noxt speaker, and ho was followed by the Roy. T. McKcnzio Fraser, who rogrotted that ho had boon tardy in giving more octivo adhesion to the Temperance cause, Thoy should make a Tomporato uso of their victory, and thoy must bewaro of an unkind demeanour to thoso opposed to them. Ho also suggested as substitution for the working men's glass tho establishment of temperance houses where a good meal might be supplied nt a small cost. Mr J. Newman and Roy. Alox. Roid also addressed tho mooting, and a collection was taken up, which realised £13 2s (Id. During tho evoning various hymns woro rendered with the assistance of a choir.

A rather lively meeting of the Devonport Road Board, which took placo on Mon day evening, is reported in anothor column. The refusal of the Chairman to roslgn his position, as requested by tho other trustees, on tho ground that ho has left tho district, is the causo of the trouble It is now un derstood thnt Mr Hammond has deter mined to hold ofiico until tho period for which ho was elected expires.

Tho chnrgo of otnbezzlomont ogiiinst John Mnrgotts was taken yesterday aftor noon, at 3.30, boforo Judge Smith, in tho Police Court—Mr Thoo. Coopor for tho prosecution, and Mr Brassoy in defence Although the sum alleged to have been ap propriated by tho prisoner was only £2 4s, several similar charges might havo been brought forward. The charge was laid under tho Larceny Act Amendment Act of IS7C Mr Cooper opened tho caso at some length, with special reference to one par ticular '.lauso, relating to a co-partnership. Prisoner was a partner with John Levy, and described os "bottlers." The prisoner entered into an engagement in June last with the prosecutor, wno was to pay him £2 per week, with half the profits; prisoner was to travel, collect, and push the business to the utmost of his ability. This continued until the middle of November ; sevoral in terviews tqok placp ii) -respect of tho business; dissatisfaction was expressed, and finally there was a separation. Henry Edward Vvoqllqirs clonosed to paying the sum of £2 4s to Margetts oi) account of Lovy and Margetts, which had not beon paid into tho firm. The prisoner, nn intelligent-looking man, was committed for trial, and tho other oases hold over.

Larrikinism has lately become such an intolerable nuisance in Ponsonby as to necessitate prompt steps boing taken to repress it. Some of the incorrigibles who indulge in this description of mischief nro old enough to know how they should beha-ie themsolves, soverol of them boing between 16 and 18 years of ago. As the names of a fow of them are known, it will not probably bo difficult t$ obtain convic tion against them at the Police Court, if they are only narrowly watched and specific charges preferred against them for violations of tho law. In John-street, where a night school is kept, stone-throwing and other offences arc frequently resorted to by thoso hoodlums, who do not seem to bounder any proper parental restraint, and who are rapidly developing into lawless ruffians. The more prominent of the offenders, or rather the ringldhders in the respective larrikin gangs, usually roam about at night, and perpetrate deeds for which they should be severely punished, During the soiree at tho Baptist Church last evening, a consider able number of these youthful rascals as sembled in the immediate vicinity of the building, and on two occasions threw stones in the direction of where persons were moving about outside. ' The local constable shortly afterwards appeared on the scene, and tho larrikins took to thoir heols precipi tously. As tho worst of tho lads now form objects of special police vigilance, it is likely that somo of them will fell into tho hands of justice ero long. The sooner tho bottor. ?

There was a largo gathering last evening in tho Eden Hall, and the entertainment was satisfactory. The Lodge was opened by Brother Bailey, who presided, and in a brief, pithy address referred especially to the re cent victory of the Good Templars in con nection with the licensing elections. The speaker believed that the good causo was 'advancing and.making quiet progress, lie touched upon Mr Murphy's tour in Ireland, where over 100,000 pledges had boon taken at the hands of that interesting tourist. Mr S. Hemus delivered a thoroughly prac tical speech on the illusions of the senses, showing how persons are deceivod in respect to outer objects by these useful but not in fallible physical faculties. A number of songs, recitations, and readings were given during the evoning; some with exquisite taste, nnd others slightly below the mark. Miss Cundall's woll-rendered song "Tho Spanish Cavalier," was sung in an ingenious and attractive manner, and received an enthusiastic meed of praise Mr John Walker substituted "Ben Bobbins?' for "My Pretty Canaries " (encore). Mr Bur dotfc, of H.M, schooner Lark, sang two capital naval songs, "The Storm Spirit" aud another, with due effect. Mr Town send sang "Farewell, False Girl." Mr Cavill gavo two capital recitations. The " Magic Clock, a Legend of Jorsey," was much admired. Songs were sung by Messrs Holland, Burns, MeLachlan, and Cosson. The sketch of " A London Clerk in Love " received respectful attention. The " Death of the Sailor Boy " was a pathetic and able recitation by Mr Nicholas. A successful evoning closed with the National Anthem.

His Honor Mr Justice Gillies sat in Chambers yesterday for the first timo after tho vacation. Probato and administration wore granted in a largo number of cases. Mr Cotter appeared in the case Davis v. George Staines, to apply for interest on the legacies in Mr Staines's hands. After argument, His Honor allowed interest at 8 per cent, per annum. Mr Napier applied for leave to enter up judgment against W. L. Rees, solicitor, for amount found to be due by him to P. K. Donnelly for costs overpaid, also for interest on the amount claimed, and costs of application. Order made as prayed. Mr Napier applied for a charging order nisi in re Mecklenburg, but His Honor held that proof of fraudulent intention must be forth coming before the order could be made. Mr Hall applied thct a bill of costs of W. M. Hay, solicitor, be referred to the Registrar for taxation. Mr Alexander moved for leave to serve writ in case of Te Raihi and others v. Grice, on Edward Barnes Walker. Order made, defendant getting 1-20 days to plead, pending the ap peal to the Privy Council.

J. Russell-Larkins, late of Parnell Gram mar School, and St John's College, Ta maki, has gained a scholarship for live years and i'Bo per annum from Exeter College, Oxford. Tlie English journals of yesterday morning's arrival announce the fact. _ Mr Russell-Larkins is studying at King's College, London.

The North Shore Ferry Company, at their last meeting, agreed to take horses to and from the North Shore at ss. This is a reduction of 5s on the previous charges, and will no doubt induce many to spend Satur day afternoons riding round this beautiful district.

Mr Seaman reports having this day received as Returning Officer the nomina tions of Messrs Thomas Benton, Joseph Bradnoy, James Faulkner, Patrick Heath, and Roy. A. M. McCnllum for tho now Northcoto Road Board, and being only tlio number required, the samo wero declared to bo duly elected.

Wo would remind thoso who desire to purchase choap wooden dwellings for re erection that Mr G. W. Binney sells, with out reserve, on Monday next at 11.30 a.m., on the ground, Hopetoun-street, Ponsonby Road, and on section 53, nineteen houses, containing from 2 to 8 roems each.

A soiree in connection witli the Nowmnrket Wosloyan Church took pluco last ovening. Amongst the speakers were tho Revs, Messrs Watkin and Parsonson, and Mr Richard Arthur.

Tho following telegram was received to day from tho manager of the Coquette mine:—" Gold showing freoly in stono 3ft. from Coquette ground at present in Diamond Gully, not through reef yet."

This is tho season when tho small-boy fiond is In his most ndvancod stago of " un adulterated cusscdness." His superabun dant exuberance finds expression in bowling big hoops against the shins of passers-by, taking sly shots with tho bifuroatod cata pult at windows in back streets, and throw ing Btones at tho Salvation Army proces sions.

Tlio Highway Board at Dovonport de cided at thoir last meeting to fonoe in the triangular rosorvo opposito tlio Admiralty yards, noar tho wharf, and put' down in grass and plant ornamental shrubs. This will add considerably to tho many beauties of North Shore.

In tho Borough of Onehunga, as olso whero, the temperance party aro making v fight over the olection of Licensing Com mittee. To-day Mr J. Oliphant Hughes, tho returning ollicer, received tho nomina tions, whon it was found that two opposing lists of candidates wore proposod. The publicans' candidates nro—Messrs John D. Jackson, Jameß Mclntyro, Patrick John Donovan, Richard Webb, and Duniel Neil sen ; and tho temperance candidates aro— Messrs John Bycroft, Andrew Dunwoodie, Wm. Sutherland, James Robb, and Charles 0. Fleming. Tho election is fixed to tako placo on Wednesday noxt.

Tho Waitaki's excursion to Whangarei in connection with the Whangarei races takes placo on Saturday week, and not on next Saturday, as has been erroneously stated.

Tho first meeting of creditors in the estate of Mrs Cameron, storekeeper, Wako liold-streot, was held to-day. The assots were stated at £340, and tho liabilities C 668 His.

Tho members of the nowly-elocted Now market Licensing Committeo mot last ovening for the purpose of electing a Chair man and determining on a policy for the ensuing year. Mr F. G. Clayton was unanimously chosen Chairman. It was decided that the Committee should inspect all public houses in tho district before the annual licensing meoting, and an under standing was arrived at that licenses would bo withheld from houses that did not comply with the Licensing Act in respect of accommodation for lodgors.or woro not in an efficlont state of repair. Tho Committeo were unanimous in deoiding that on no con sideration would licenses othor then ten o'clock bo granted, and that any infringer niont of tho law regarding Sunday trading would bo vigorously dealt with.

Among patents applied for by Now Zea land invontors are the following :—John Levy, cordial manufacturer, Auckland, for Levy's neidulator j Daniel Climie, Welling ton, for a floating broakwater; T. J. Thompson, Campbolltown, for Thompson's Bluff Portland cement; James Mackay, Nelson, for a safety-rollor-spring stirrup; Thomas Cossens, Dunedin, for patont for quarrying and cutting Oamaru stono; and William Berry, of Crofton, Wellington, for invention in connection with photo-litho graphy and photo-zincography.

Tho annual meeting of tho Auckland Sunday-school Union wns hold last evening at the Wollosloy-street Baptist Sunday school. Tea was provided by tho Union, the tables boing presided over by teachers of the various Sunday-schools. At tho meeting tho chair was taken by tho Presi dent, Mr J. C Firth. Tho annual roport showed the institution to bo in a flourish ing condition. Tho number of schools alliliated to tlio Union in January, 1883, was 129 j the additions during tho year were 13 sohools, and the withdrawals 2, making the total number now connected with tho Union 140—a net gain of 11 for the year. The receipts for the year totalled L 3.334 15s 4d, of which L 1,471 16s 3d was dorived from schools, L 193 148 7d by tho Industrial Exhibition, and L 1,278 18s 4d from cash salo of periodicals, oto, The expenditure was LlO5 19s 7Jd less than the receipts, the principal itoms being s —By bills payable, L 1,704 148 5d ; Home Union, old account, L3OO ; depflt oxponses, L 295 2s 5(1 ; purchases, L29S 16s 7d; In dustrial Exhibition, L 136 19s; ship- - ping and packing, L 134 3s 9d ; rent and insurance, L99 Os 2d. Tho roport was adopted, and the election of officers was then proceeded with, with tho following result: —President, Mr F. Battley ; Vice- Presidents, Messrs J. Elliott, T. Buddie, Revs. Messrs Macnicol, Carter, and Reid; Treasurer, Mr D. Goldie; Finanap and Trade Secretary, Mr Soering Marahews; Minute and Corresponding Secretary, Mr W. Cox; Visitors, Messrs Tucker and Parker; Auditors, Messrs W. H. Lyon and Smccton. It had been intended to hold a conference on the subject of "young Christian's bands," but the ordinary busi ness had occupied such a length of time that it was deolded to postpone the confer ence to a future meeting.

The annual soiree of tho Ponsonby Baptist Church Sunday-school was hold last even ing. Thoro was an unusually largo attend ance, and .the proceedings were of a very interesting character. An excellent toa, provided by the ladies of tho congregation, was partaken of. After the ropast, a public moeting, presidod over by tho pastor, Rev. C Carter, took place The Chairman, in a somewhat lengthy address, dwolt on the advantages of Sunday-schools and the necessity of maintaining their efficiency in the instruction and edification of tho rising generation as much as pos sible, in order that the young might be well grounded in the divino truths of tho Bible. The Sunday-school Secretory, Mr William Turley, read a most gratifying re port of last year's proceedings. The num ber of pupils had materially increased, and indications of progress in a spiritual direc tion wore not wanting. Tliero w;cro now upwards of 200 on the roll, and tho average attendance was ordinarily good. The juvenile contributions towards the Sunday school library and other objects could not be complained of. The teachers were oarnost and zealous in the discharge of their functions, and looked forward to their labours being, by tho blessing of God, crowned with a degree of success. Ad dresses were then delivered by Mr Shalders, and the Revs. T; Spurgeon and T. G. Carr. Almost every point bearing upon Sunday school teaching was adverted to by theso speakers The privilege of imparting Scriptural knowledge to children, from genuine love to the Saviour, was parti cularly pointed out as .the best qualifi cation of a Sunday-school teacher. A

hearty vote of. .thanks to the Indies who provided the tea and presided at the tables, to the speakers and the teachers, was accorded by acclamation. Several appropriate hymns were sung during the evoning.

CABLEGRAMS.

[BY CABLE.-COPYRIBHT.]

[reuter's telegrams.]

Russia and India—Britain seeks Un-

derstanding,

London, March 11, —A debate has taken place in the House of Lords on the subject of Central Asia and the occupationl of Merv by Russia. In the course of the same,. Earl Kimberly, Secretary of State for India, made a speech, in^which he ann6unced that parleying was now proceeding between the English and Russian Governments, with a view to definitely fix the lines of tlie Russo- Afghan frontier. French Move In Tonquin.

Paris, March 10.—An official telegram from General. Millot, tho French com mander in Tonquin, states that the forces under his command are now advancing against the enemy's position at Bacninh.

Illness of Mr Gladstone,

London, Match 10.—Mr Gladstone is suffering from a severe cold, and is at present confined to his home.

Fenian Threats in Canada.

Ottawa, March 4.—Threats emanating from the Fenians having been made against the life of Lord Lansdowne, the guard at Government House has been doubled, and other precautions are being taken for the safety of His Excellency. London, March 10. —The cargo of mutton per tho steamship Potosi, from Melbourne, arrived in excellent condition.

Mining Catastrophe.--Twelve Men Killed-

New York, March 11. -A snowslip has demolished the works at tlie Emma mine, and caused the death of twelve workmen, besides serious injuries to soveral others. Paris, March 10.—It has transpired that the French Government has sent instruc tions to the Governor of New Caledonia to in variably demand tho extradition of any convict escapes from the ponal settlements who may tako i'ofugo in Australian terri tory.

London, March 11.—The death is an nounced of William Blanchard Jerrold, author and journalist, aged 58. London, March 10.—At the wool sale to day 8,500 bales wore offered. The market continues steady, but without active demand.

[special to press association.]

London, March 10.—In tho sculling match, Ross v. Bubear, tho former won by six lengths.

A Loudon syndicate has beon formed to despatch a steamer monthly to Tasmania, each carrying 100 emigrants. Tho first vessel sails on tho 25th of April.

AUSTRALIAN.

(Recoivod March 12—12.50 p.m,

Melbourne, this day,—Arrived, yester day evening Tarawera.

The Victorian Wheat Harvest.

Tho interim agricultural statistics of Victoria show that tho yield to date has been thirteen millions of bushels, an average of 13-89 per acre It is estimated that the total yield for the season will amount to fifteen millions of bushels.

Melbourne, March 11,—It is now finally sottled that Spoflorth joins the Australian team of cricketers. The lattor proceed to Adelaide to-day, and will leavo there for England by tho P. and O. steamship Sutlej on Saturday next.

Another Dostructlve Firo in Adelaide

Adelaide, March 11. —A firo occurred last night at MrChanco's jam works, in this city. The whole promises woro destroyed, and tho loss is sot down ot £10,000.

Sydney, March 11.—Heavy rain fell over a largo part of tho country districts to-day. All the prisoners who wero arrested in connection with the Waterloo tragedy have been acquitted. Melbourne Grain Market. The Melbourno manager of tho National Mortgogo and Agency Company of New Zealand reports of tho local grain market as follows:— Wheat, 3s lOd to 3s lid. Market firmer. Malting barley dull and drooping, nnd prices barely maintained. To day's quotations are 4s to 4s 6d. New Zea land oats in firm demand, at 2s Id to 2s 8d for feeding, and 2s 9d to 2s lOd for milling qualities. Now Zealand oats, under bond, slow of sale, at 2s 3d to 2s 6d. Owing to full supplies, oats will probably rule low this season.

THE WAR IN THE SOUDAN.

(BY CABLE.-COPYRIGHT.]

[reuter's telegram.]

ANOTHER BATTLE IMPENDING.

Cairo, March 10. Latest intelligence from Souakim is to the offect that a battlo botween General Graham's troops and the followers of Osman Digna is expected to take place on Friday next. It is probable that the Bri tish force will afterwards advance to Sinkat.

WAR VOTE FOR THE SOUDAN CAMPAIGN.

Tho British Policy in Egypt,

The House of Commons has passed a vote of crodit of half-a-million sterling to cover the expenses of tlie British expedition to the Soudan. The Marquis of Harrington, Secretary of State for War, speaking to the motion, stated that Government deemed it essential that tho Red Sea ports should be hold by the British forces. He added that tho British Government accopted the full responsibility of tho policy that may bo pursued by tho Egyptian Government during tho timo the British occupation lasts.

[SI'ECIAL TO TRUSS ASSOCIATION.]

London, March 11. Tho tolcgraph wiro to Khartoum has been cut.

The Houso of Commons has passod the vote for tho expenses of the Souakim ex pedition.

ThoGovernmcntarounwillingthntZobehr should bo entrusted with the Government of Khartoum, nnd aro anxious that General Gordon should himsolf remain there

SUICIDE OF A GIRL.

[UY TELEGRAM.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Mastkrton, this da.v. A girl named Eliza Hcrrock, aged 15, com mitted suicide at Taucru on Monday by taking arsenic. She concealed tho cause of her illness till the following day, when the doctor was sent for, but sho died immediately after his arrival, Tho supposed cause of tlio rash act is a trum pery disagreement with hor brother. An inquest takes placo this afternoon.

CHARGE OF FORGERY.

A Judge's View of the Crime,

(by telegraph. — press association.)

Oamaru, this day. Tub first sitting of the Supremo Court opened this morning beforo Justice Johnston. Tho only case on tho calendar was ono for forgory against Charlos Turner. Thoro was nothing noteworthy In tho Judgo's chargo, save his reforence to the prevalent crimo of forgory. His Honor said that ho could not help remark ing that pooplo who readily cashed ohoques woro participators in the crime by reason of tho facilities they offered for its commission. The grand jury returned a truo bill, and tho common jury found a verdict ot " guilty " against Turner, and ho was sentenced to 18 months' imprison ment.

HEAVY FAILURES AT DUNEDIN.

[BY TELEGRAM!.—rRIiSS ASSOCIATION.]

Dunkdin, this day. Yesterday, at a moeting of the creditors of Mr Dodson, publican, Port Chalmers, the liabilities woro stated at £16,000. Mr Dodson offored to pay 7s Od In tlie fi, which the creditors refused to acoept

At a meoting of tho creditors of Hugh John McLean, it transpired that tho largest creditors oppose the Vote of £100 to tho debtor, passed at last moeting, for his services, on the ground of irregularity. The bank representative moved that the voto be rescindod, which was carried by a majority'in Valuo, bit hegatived by a majority in number; so'ii deadlock ensiled, the trustees said under the circumstances they would refuse to pay. It was stated that Chas. Stewart, when joining the firm of McLeans, in April, 1882. put £11,000 into the business, all of which had been frittered away.

SAN FRANCISCO MAIL NEWS.

ANGLO-OOLO2TI4L ITOrSS

[For the Mail via San Francisco

ok January 31.]

(From Our London Correspondent.)

New Zealand Frozen Mutton.

London, January 31. The theory which I broached some time ago to tho effect that, once given a start, New Zealand frozen mutton would force its way much faster to tho front in the English pro vinces than in London, is now receiving ample corroboration. Newcastle, Leeds, and Plymouth can all boast butchers who sell New Zealand frozen mutton under its own name; and these tradesmen declare they could readily dispose of twice as much as they aro usually able to obtain. Messrs Heard and Sons, of the Devonport Market (Plymouth), receive consignments of frozen meat by each of the New Zealand Shipping Company's steamers, and aro now agitating for the erection of a refrigerator in which the carcases may bo located on arrival. The Plymouth press has taken tlie matter up, and the Town Council consented to "pay the piper," so that in a few months the orders of tho three towns for frozen mutton alone will be considerable. Too much stress cannot possibly be laid on the importance of strengthening and backing-up this provincial connection. Jn the smaller towns there is no powerful meat-ring to contend against, and it ought not to be difficult to obtain for the frozen mutton footing and reputation under its own proper'name. Once this is done, the rest should bo easy. Somo folks, I am aware, do not see the necessity for having the frozen meat recognised as being from Now Zealand. When Mr Banks (of Fisher and Co., of Auckland) was discussing the matter with me, I remember lie said, " But why insist on the mutton being docketed New Zealand ? Why not let it pass as 'prime Scotch" or 'Southdown,' or what ever the retailers like to call it ? The name doesn't matter to us." But I maintain it does. The colony ought to get the benefit of the good character of its own wares. Hero is New Zealand frozen meat so excellent that only an expert can tell tho difference between it and the best English. You can afford to sell mutton for Gd per lb. wholesale, and it ought not to be retailed at moro than 7d or Bd. Just at present the colonial exporters aro benefitting neither themselves nor tho British public, but simply a lot of rascally middle-men, or in other words, tlio retail butchers. This can only be stopped by giving buyers an oppor tunity of purchasing mutton which is really properly authenticated as being from New Zealand. I forget whether I mentioned the fact at tlio time, but in Christmas week 28,000 frozen carcases wcro put on tlie Lon don market and disappeared. Save at two stalls—ono in Smithtiold and one at Leaden hall— not a leg of New Zealand mutton was obtainable. Tho whole 28,000 wero beyond doubt disposed of as English or Scotch. I saw Fitter, the butcher, in Leadenhall market (who was the first to publicly adver tise Now Zealand mutton), yesterday, and asked him whether his sales wore increasing, He roplicd that though tho amount sold per week continued about the same, tbere seemed to bo a marked incrcaso in the number oi regular customers — i.e., p.oplo who use New Zealand mutton whenever they use mutton ot all. Of course, he does his best to encourage all sucli by reserving tho best joints for them, and giving them the prefer ence over casual customers. Annexation of Samoa. Somo little excitement was caused in Anglo-Colonial circles last week by the publication of an Excliango Telegraph Com pany's cablegram to the effect that New Zealand had fully determined to annex the Samoan Islands, and that the good people of Auckland wero mainly responsible foi the step. To Aroha Goldflelds. The evening papers of tho 26th inst. con tained voluminous paragraphs describing the now goldfields at Te Aroha, in the pro vince of Auckland, New Zealand, and giving an account of tho opening ceremonies con nected therewith. The credit of initiating tho enterprise successfully is attributee mainly to the public spirit of Messrs J. C. Firth and J. McCosh Clark. Some sceptical city folks declare this paragraph had an object; in fact, that it was merely meant to prepare tlie way for the prospectus of a gold-mining company in the neighbour hood of Te Aroha. I don't much believe this myself, but if by any ehanco it should be tho caso, you may as well warn the pro moters that they will never .be able to raise capital for New Zealand gold-mining in London, Speculators have the meetings of tlie Kapangn Company and kindred enter prises too often under their eyes. Salmon for New Zealand. The lonic, s.s., which sailed from Ply mouth on the 28th inst. for Wellington, has on board 60,000 salmon eggs from the famous fish-hatchery of Sir James Maitland, at Howotown, near Stirling, which are pre served in a chilled air chamber, specially devised by Haslaras, the well-known re frigerator manufacturers, and will, it is hoped, reach tlio colony alive and healthy, Dr. Kennaway (who, together with the Agent-General and Mr Coster, of the New Zealand Shipping Company, has taken a great interest in the affair) tells mo that the chief difficulties they had to cope with in previous undertakings of the same sort were the extremes of heat and cold. The first idea| was to pack the egg 3in moss, cur rounded by blocks of ice. Air Youl, of Molhourno, initiated this plan, but it didn't answer, bocauso of the lack of moisture. Haslains then set to work to combino cold and moisture, and this they think they havo at last succeeded in doing. Tlie exporimont is ono of groat importance to the colony, for if these eggs arrive all right the conundrum of " how to stock N.Z. rivers with salmon and trout " will bo finally solvod. Before the lonio sailed, Sir Dillon Bell, Mr Coster and a fow friends visited the vessel and inspected tho chilled air chamber and tho packing apparatus. Genoral Notes. Owing to the fearful gale in tho Channel on the 26th and 27th inst., tho lonic was dotained two days in tlio Downs, and did not embark her emigrants at Plymouth till noon, January 28th. Tho "Academy" of Saturday last (January 26th) contains a long and favour able notico of " Town Life in Australia," by Mr R. E. W. Twoponny (editor of the " Otago Daily. Times "). The critique winds up with a par. to the effect that as ''Mr Twopenny is now in New Zealand, it is to bo lioped ho will favour English readers with an equally entertaining and instructive book about that colony." The celestial phenomenon of the afterglow following tho sunset has, during the past two months, beon observed all over England, but specially in London. Curiously enough the newspapers just to hand from N.Z. announce that the samo phenomenon (marvellously splendid) was observed iv Decembor in the northern parts of the colony. The first of Shaw-Savill's big liners to be launched will be called tho Tainui, and not, as was stated, the Arawa. Both, how ovor, are to be ready by the middle of the year, and will, it is hoped, havo completed thoir maiden voyages by October. At tho meeting of tho St. Katharine's Docks Company the day beforo yesterday, tho Chairman, Mr Brand, spoke-in a most sanguine tone of tho important trado which ho believes, ere long, will arise between this country and Australia and New Zealand iv refrigerated moat. He added that his board woro propared to offer every facility for its ready development. Australian winos and othor spocialty drinks (fermonted and unformonted) in uso at tho Antipodes aro to form an "important feature of the groat Health Exhibition at South Kensington this year. Brogdon's Insolvency. Tlie affairs of Mr Alexander Brogden seem, after all, _ pretty desperate, Tho meeting of creditors the other day was strictly private ; in fact, the reporters could obtain no absolutely authentic data what ever. A solicitor who was present, how ever, vouchsafed the following statements as " about right" :—Debts fully Fecured, £17,168 ; debts partly secured, £657,009 ; the value of tlie securities being £144,672, leaving a deficiency of £542,000 odd ; debts unsecured, '£27,462, making a total un secured indebtedness of £569,539 against assets £3,830. Cricketers for Australia. It is stated, on good authority, that the professional cricketers, Alfred Shaw, Shrewsbury, and James Lillywhite, are making arrangements for a team of pro fessionials to visit Australia and New Zea land after this year's home season is over. Several notable players have already agreed to go, and the team will leave England early in October. '■■■'■ Shipping. Captain Scotland," latp of tho'Glenlorn, has been appointed to tho command of the Crusader, which sails for Auckland in a few days. Tho following saloon passengers are booked per Tongariro, leaving on 21st;— Miss Annie.Fox, Miss Kent, Mr T. 3, Car miohaol, and Mr G. L. Wardlaw. . \ . :./ ■~ .„■.,'. ;.*

The Deva, which sailed for Auckland at ';* the end of last week, must have oxperienpjfl the full fury of the hurricane of the 2oU 1 January in tho English Channel. She Too i not beon spoken or heard of since 1 Captain Auld (late of the Famenoth) who is about to settle permanently in New Zealand, will go out as a passenger to Aunt land in the Northern Steamship ComDanv_ new boat next June. At one time it wn» understood he would take charge of hern the outward run, but this arrangement has ' apparently fallen through. The Messrs and Misses Mason, who havn booked passages for Lyttelton by th„ Tongariro, are children of the Vicar of : Gainsborough. They intend settlins in Canterbury. c ' : Mr and Mrs Ruddy will be through nas sengers for New Zealand by the s.s. Austral sailing next week. M> Ruddy is connected with the press, and was for sometime in th« "Times" office. He has a little capital and is understood to be on the look-out fora re ' munerative newspaper property in vo „' part of the world. ' r a I saw Captain Savory, who came Home to superintend the building of a vessel TZ Stone Brothers, of Auckland, the other day. Things are not going well with him There is a strike m the shipbuilding-yard of Robson Brothers, of Dundee, and it seems likely that the vessel, which w<_« promised for June, will not bo readvtm August or September. J ■ Trade is very dull just now. The passen- ; ger brokers declare that twice as many 1 people were emigrating this timo last year and freights are by no means easily obtain' able. Owing to the Triumph disaster, • . Shaw-Savill will not despatch a direct steamer, to New Zealand in February •' Mr Henry Guisford, of New Zealand has been elected a fellow of the Colonial Insti- 3 tute. The principal antipodean banks have ''"' contributed liberally to the building fund of the Colonial Institute, which now amounts to £2,714. The Bank of New Zealand gave § £105, the Bank of Australasia £100 the Union Bank £100, the English, Scottish and Australian Chartered Bank £100 nnd the Colonial Bank £50. ' d | The new editionof "MenoftheTime "juet out, is principally remarkable for its indom. pleteness. Hardly any colonial magnates are mentioned, even your Sir George Grey ? ■< (whose name was included in previous editions) being omitted from this one. M Lord Carnarvon (the ex-Secretary of State for the Colonies) has been buying gome valuable properties in the neighbourhood of Melbourne and Sydney, the revenues of which are to be set aside for his second son i who may possibly emigrate a fow veara hence. ' I Within 24 hours of their magnificent era- I porium in Cornhill being reduced to ashes 1 Messrs S. W. Silver and Co., the well- known outfitters, resumed business in temporary premises not 100 yards away The windows of Bowley and Bristowe (agents for the N.Z. Insurance Company! were smashed by the heat of the fire and the pumping of the engines, but otherwise their property escaped without serious injury. ._:< Tho N.Z.S. Company's s.s. lonic sailed I from Plymouth on the 28th inst. for Wei lington and Canterbury, with the following passengers :—Saloon : Mr and Mrs Cash. : Mr, Mrs, and Miss Melland, Mrs M. Ward Misses Pagans (2), Miss Elder, and Messrs T. Elder, John Barker, Wm. Tizard, Robfc. __ and-Alex. Maekechnie, Jabez Owen Wm M Porter, J B. Wikin, XV. F. Yates, and ; Randall. The lonic also carries 41 second cabin, 50 third cabin, and 200 emigrants. The New Zealand Shipping Company's Tongariro was at Rio on January 21, and is expected at Plymouth early next week. She leaves again for Christchurch and Otago on February 21. As yet not many passen. gers are booked, but from tho number of I inquiries it is anticipated she will be quite full. Geo. Augustus Sala lias decided not to start on his tour of the Australias and New Zealand till March, 1884. He will be ac- 1 companied by Mrs Sala. After changing their minds more than V once, the Rev. Mr and Mrs Laishley finally resolved to return to New Zealand! imme diately, and sailed as they originally deter mined in the P. and O. s.s. Ballarat on the ' 31st inst. Aa far as I can ascertain, there is no truth in the story to the effect that the little mmico LuscombeSearelle has brought an action against the "Referee" for the caustic remarks which appeared in that journal anent the payment of the members of the " Estrella " Company. The account of the fracas between Lingard and Searelle in the New York " Mirror " was, there aro good reasons for supposing, written by the last-named gentleman himself. If Professor Buskin's health keeps fairly good, it is on the cords that he may spend the winter of 1884-5 at the Antipodes, which he is particularly anxious to visit before he dies. In that case he will be accompanied by his niece and her husband, the well known artist, Mr Arthur Severn. Mr Fred. Maccabe, the well-known entertainer, who recently returned from a highly successful tour in the Colonies, was " commanded " to Crichel, Lord Alington's country houso, on the 26th inst., frr tho jfl purpose of giving his popular monologue, 1 - " Begone.Dull Care," before the Prince and >.i Princess of Wales and a large party. ' 9 Sir Julius Vogel is laid up at his residence 91 in Cromwell Road with a severe attack of '■". gOUt. :' A The "Referee" cruelly remarks that : though New Zealand is only 1,500 miles from Victoria it takes 12months fora great theatrical success like the " Silver King " or "Tho Lights of London" to penetrate from Melbourne to Dunedin or Christ church. Messrs J. Stewart and Y. McClaren are through passengers for Dunedin by the P. and O. s.s. Ballarat, leaving London to-day, January 31, and Mr and Mrs Glover and family aro booked for Auckland by the same steamor. The article which Mr R. Laishley, solicitor, of Auckland, is about to con tribute to the "Nineteenth Century Re-' view" will bo on the subject of "New Zealand as a Field for Emigration." Tho multifarious friends of Mr Griffin, the energetic and popular United States Consul at Auckland, will, I am sure, be delighted to read of the extraordinary triumph which his niece, the beautiful Mary Andereon, has just won in Gilbert's new play,, i "Comedy nnd Tragedy." A full account of this remarkable piece will be found in the proper place, but I may perhaps bo' permitted to say that, though Miss Anderson has for some time been looked upon as a pretty Woman and a clever - comedienne, it was not till Saturday even- : ing last sho was recognised as a really great actress. A gentleman recently arrived from Wei- ' • lington, who seems to know all the ins and outs of colonial politics, has startled us with tho news that Sir F. D. Bell will very shortly be superseded by Mr R. Johnstone.

PAINFUL ACCIDENT.

A man named T. Wilson, employed at the Devonport Timber Mills, met with a pain ful accidont yesterdey afternoon. He was working at the circular saw, when his right hand was accidentally drawn in and cut off.- The unfortunate fellow was brought over to Auckland after having had his injuries-teni porarily attended to, and then he was taken to the Hospital for medical attendance. He is doing as well as could be expected under tliQ circumstances.

MINING NEWS.

[by telegraph.—own correspondent.]

Thames, this day. Deep Level Cross —Tho rising of water in consequenco of a stoppage of the pump has driven tho gas into the Company's upper workings, and sinco Tuesday morning none of the men havo been underground, London.—ln stopjng a short hlpck on INo. 1 reef at the intermediate level, tho manager has secured about 201b of picked stone during the past few days. The crushing from thisrepf is being treated at Bull s battery. A little gold is visible in western intermediate drive. Waitekauri (No. 2.)-Korth, tributer, banked 26ozs 2dwts gold. Caledonian.—lrwin, tributer, 3ozs ldwt gold.

ABBOTT'S OPERA HOUSE.

Last night, " La Fille dv Tambom. Major " was performed for the last time. There was a largp and appreciative audience. This evening will be signalised by the production of " Les Cftches do Corneyille." This is a different veratoto that performed hero by several Drevious companies, and Mr MusgroveT assures 51 #>• t it is much superior V other veraloris! It will be mounted in a most elegant and costfv manner the scenery having Seen exnreSfr ffl'Tn dJ°Cr tho Pieco bI Mosses George $_3_ an.MolmHennuißs. The cast is a strong■ ono M'.f- appearing as Germain.• Miss £™ i o.?i tew,-. n aß. s"-polette: Sir Howard Wr* non as the Marquis; Sir E. kelly as Gas D ird: Mr Wallace as Gobo; Mr**WooM_ffl_y Greiiicheux; and last, but by no iSeiSs leas^ Fordek first appearance after manr__ont__? absenoq from Auokland. Wo wdSfd-refiiSa playgoers that to-night, to-morrow, and; Mdk?

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1884.



Special Advertisements. AUCKLAND BENEVOLENT Jr*.. SOCIETY. OFFICE: Over Upton's, Stationer, Queen-stroot. Hours of attendance, .from 3 to 4 p.m., Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. GENERAL COMMITTEE OF MANAGE MENT. ! PRESIDENT: His Worship the Mayor of Auckland. VICE-PRESIDENTS: J. M. Clark, Esq. Tiie Hon. Col. Haultain. MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE: Mesdames— Ehamb. J., Esq. Brame Buddle, Tnos., Esq. Cosorave Daldy, Capt.,W. C. Cowie Greenwood, R.C., Esq. Hay, J. Maoffarlane, T.,Esq. JUDD MURHAY-MOORE,Dr.J. MaC'FFARLANE, T. NATHAN, L. D., ESQ. Nathan, D. Peacock, Thos., Esq. Wiiitk, A. Thqrne, Wm., Esq. EXECUTIVE: B ochanan, Jno. , Esq. Dando, Sydney, Esq. Cooper, Theo., Esq. Ewington, F. G., Esq. Keesino, Ralph, Esq. TREASURER: SECRETARY: C. C. McMillan, Esq. Tom. Dufpuy. This Society was called into existence at a public meeting of citiaens for the purpose of relieving cases of sickness and destitution which tho Relievihg Officer could not so well deal with. The frequent appeals to the citizens of Auek ' land for charitable aid havo become burdcn '. some, and the help given being unsystematic is not only ineffectual but sometimes wasted on "tho undeserving. Convinced that the public will bo saved much annoyance from begging, and oxpense, and that this organisation will do more real good to the poor and neody than isolated benevolent efforts, tho Committee ap peal for support Thoy will administer with groat care all funds entrusted to them, and cause strict inquiries to be made into such ap plication!! for relief. Whenever possible, they : will try to avert a tendency to pauperism hy gotting work for men and women, thus making thorn self-reliant. You are, therefore, respect fully invited to pay to tho Treasurer, or any of ' the Committee, whatever you may feel disposed to give, to enable the Committee to carry out the above objects. ■ N.B.—The Secretary can generally bo seen at his privato residence, Wellesley-Btroct W. (threo' • • doorsabove Nelson-street), any evening betweon the hours of rand 9. TTIIRE! FIRE!! FIRE!!! .'.:.. _ THE SALE OF DAMAGED GOODS HAS NOW COMMENCED AT *<:T M°M ASTER' S* ' This is a chance seldom to bo met with by Buyers of DRAPERY, and MILLINERY. CLOTHING, As Most of the Stock is but SLIGHTLY DAM ABED, Yet all will be . SOLD AT GREATLY REDUCED \ PRICES. Ladies' Hats, from Id each Ladlps' Capes, from 2a Ladles' Castumes, from 4s Cd - Godu Trimmed Millinery, very cheap Prints, from 2jd yard Light Summer Dreases, from Id yard a Millinery Net, from Id yard Men's Felt Hats, from 6d each Men's Mole Trousers, from la Men's Tweed Trousers, from 6s T. MoMASTER. 25?, QUEEN-STREET (OPPOSITE THE MARKET). ""S f E TTOST ARRIVED AND TO 2 . H BE SOLD CHEAP. w £ ______ _ „ WINE GLASSES, 3s dozen g . ___ LARGE TUMBLERS, 8s dozen _\ B WHITE AND GOLD CHINA CUPS -. E* ._ffi§^_?BHß!.6Ba'')zen- PLATES, S %\ TftiPOTS, s^oar BOXES Td t ~ MATCH in pattern and price 2 W STOVE ORNAMENTS, la each an 3 B g upwards *3 j BOX IRONS (unequalled), Saw if '' VeIGJEONG SCALES, only 7s Gd „ SPRING BALANCES, lOd each H . - KNIVES AND FORKS, good and cheap O M CARVERS, STEELS 2 ' g KK^^AND _SP. SPOONS AND " , *3 -OIvKS FANCY JJOODS of aU descriptions, a Beautiful Selection . ;~. GARDEN TOOLS of all kinds t> ' rli--^^^SBB_RHOBB,HOSEEIPKS, 9 , ': O -wlthjata and roses O c ,H CARPENTERS TOOLS In TMlety W gBXfftfJISHING IRONMONGERY, tea. i •;_ -:' -____ " | jB ■ -. 249, QUBBN-STiaaßT, _ © THBHt DOOBS ABOVE WELLESLST.BT. %\



Special Advertisements. DR. P H I LSO N, Late District Surgeon. Attends from 10 a.m. to 1 o'clook p.m., AND DR. J. H. HONEYMAN From 11 a.m. to 1 o'clock p.m., at Aickin's, THE PHARMACY Queen-street. TENDERS WANTED For the Whole of the Stock of MEN'S AM. BOYS' CLOTHING AND MERCERY NEW ZEAI_AND OFTWEED COMPANY. It is quite New, not being more than ten months old. The Men's and Boys' Clothing has been Manufactured attheKaiapoi Factory, and our own make. __.___._... _ Tenders will close on MONDAY, 10th inst. al — Q/* PER CENT. DISCOUNT. -CXr "OATTRAY Desires to Inform his Customers and the Publio that, owing to the Increase in his GENTLE MEN'S MKRCERY BUBINESS, and conse quent want of Room for the proper dlsplayof the LARGE SHIPMENTS <5F TO ARRIVE for that Department, he has determined to CLEAR OUT THE WHOLE OF HIS LARGE AND VARIED STOCK OF READY-MADE CLOTHING AND WOOLLENS. To effect this result as speedily as possible, ho has decided to OFFER THE ENTIRE STOCK OF THESE GOODS AT A HEAVY DISCOUNT TO CASH PURCHASERS. It is well-known that all Articles offered for srle at NEW ZEALAND HOUSE are marked in Plain Pwores, the excellence of which plan is admitted by its numerous patrons. TO ALL CASH PURCHASERS OF READY-MADE CLOTHING AND WOOLLENS There will be allowed from those marked prices (which compare very favourably with similar goods shown elsewhere) tho ENORMOUS (ISCOUNT of TWENTY PER CENT., on FOUR SHILLINGS IN THE POUND. SALE NOW ON. /-GENTLEMEN'S BLACK CLOTH MORNING COATS GENTLEMEN'S BLACK WORSTED MORNING COATS GENTLEMEN'S TWEED SINGLE fccj BREASTED SACS __ GENTLEMEN'S TWEED PAGET HH SUITB O GENTLEMEN'S TWEED SINGLE BREASTED SAC SUITS P GENTLEMEN'S TWEED TROUSERS _ J AND VESTS tZ 1 GENTLEMEN'S TWEED TROUSERS \~O GENTLEMEN'S MACINTOSH COATS P GENTLEMEN'S TWEED OVER (_ COATS JT YOUTHS' WORSTED SINGLE (■H BREASTED SACS YOUTHS' TWEED SINGLE- H BREASTED SAC SUITS S YOUTHS' TWBBD TROUSERS AND j 1 1 VESTS H YOUTHS-MACINTOSH COATS "^ . YOUTHS'TWEED OVERCOATS _\ ( BOYS' WORSTED SAC SUITS M BOYS' TWEED SAC SUITS rr , BOYS' WORSTED SAC COATS ?£ BOYS' TWEED TKOUB___RS AND CD VESTS _r, BOYS' TWEED TROUSERS Q BOYS' MACINTOSH COATS n BOYS' WITNEY AND TWEED M OVERCOATS i__l SMAU, BOYS' WORSTEP SUITS M SMALL BOYS' FANCY TWEE© hH < SUITS EH SMALL BOYS' MAN-O'-WAR SUITS XJ_ SMALL BOYS' JERSEY SUITS BLACK BROADCLOTH AND DOE- A_ SKIN \_\ BLUE VENETIAN AND DIAGONAL P BLUE AND BLACK WORSTED _^_ COATINGS y WEST OF ENGLAND AND SCOTCH P-l TWEEDS MOSGIEL AND ROSLYN TWEEDS SILK AND WOOL VESTINGS WHITE MARCELLA VEBTINGB I. &0., &0., &0. REMEMBERI 1. The Goods are all marked in plain figures, and are good value at tho marked prices. 2. The Stook is New, Seasonable, and Well assorted. 3. The Name of the Houso is a sufficient guarantee that First-class Goods only will be offered. - i. For every Pound's worth purchased 20 per cent (four shillings in the pound) will fca re turned to ready-money purchasers. 5. As such advantages are obtainable only Bnee8 nee perhaps in a lifotimo, it is desirable to note lie address and make an early inspection. William Rattray,. CLOTHIER AND GENERAL DRAPBR. NEW ZEALAND HOUSE, 178, 180, AND 182, Queen-street, AUCKLAND (Fcur doors below the New Savings Bank), . _ NOVELTIES OVELTIEO. EX S.S. DORIC. MILNE AND CHOYCE Have just Opened Several Cases of Novelties, including— VERY HANDSOME SASH RIBBONS FANCY LACE BOWS FANCY LACE TIES OPERA WRAPS MOB CAPS PLASTRONS, tor street and evening wear KERCHIEFS, New and Fancy Designs LACES, including Coloured Beaded Laces and the New Flouncing Lace' GOLD BRAIDS VELVETEENS, tho now Twill Back. ___ ILNE & ChOYCE, QUEEN-STREET. FORT-STREET, AUCKLAND. T3UTCHER AND CO., STEVEDORES, RECEIVING AND FORWARDING AGENTS, ARE PREPARED TO TAKE t^§_S 98 SMALL CONTRACTS. LARGB OR SMALL CONTRACTS. ENGINES FOR HIRE. *. ________ WOOL DUMPED FOR SHIPMENT. .New Jjaw Partnership. THE UNDERSIGNED beg to announce tfeal chey have Commenoed Practice In Co-partner, shlpas BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS, In Chambers in High-street opposite Mr W. Atkln's Printing Office. B. W. BURTON, a--vi __ -W. J. NAPIER. *■■"-:'.' Auokland, ~-,, : . j feptember Jtoa,ißßß. ' !.. '



S. Coombes's Advertisement. OUR TJREMISES UR .[REMISES {CANADA BUILDINGS) WILL BE Cl os c rv h O S E \J j ■ TO ENABLB US TO PREPARE THE SALVAGE STOCK < FOR SALE, COMMENCING THIS DAY (WEDNESDAY), March 12. OAMUEL /COOMBES ft /^.0., QUEEN-STREET.



Bicycles, unequalled for finish, price and quality, at Shakespear & Go's, (opposite the Market), Queen-street—l Advt.J