DRAMATIC AND MUSICAL.

Wuu the advent of the Easter season came a long spell of glorious holiday weather.and quite a plethora of amusement to make amends for its previous dearth. In the week preceding the festive season a circus troupe, styling itself "The Great World, cast its tent upon the Market Reserve, and on Easter Monday a regular host of profes sionals swooped down upon the city. Un that evening J. P. Macdonald's " Youth and "Lights o' London" Specialty Com pany opened in the Opera House with the former piny before a crowded assemblage, the Kennedy Family commenced a short farewell season of their Scottish entertain ments in the Choral Hall, and Woodyear s Electric Circus inaugurated a three-nights season-ultimately extended to six nights —on the Reclamation. AH these combina tions have fared remarkably well. ' 'Youth' will bo played for the last time to-night, after a successful run of fourteen nights at exceptional prices. It ia to bo re placed with the other Drury Lane sensation, "The Lights o' London,' which promises to keep the boards quite as Ion?. The Kennedys met with a warm reception and a cordial support throughout • their limited season, which ended on Mon day, the 21st inst. They have now departed for Australia. Woodyear'sCircusalso.and its smaller though highly pretensious rival, ' likowisu met with liberal patronage, and have left, the destination of the former troupe being also Australia. In conjunc tion withit,butperformingseparately, went tho Australian Blondin, whose f unambulistic feats are certainly clever and daring. The present dramatic season will doubtless be succeeded by one of comic opera, as Dun ning's Opora Bouffo Company, with " Rip Van Winkle," "Manola," " Les Manteaux Noire," and "Fatinitza " in their repertoire, oro now at Wellington. Miss Genevievo Ward is playing with great success at Mel bourne, and by the last' Frisco mail steamer an American star actress of some repute, named Mrs Jeffries Lewis, went on to Sydney under engagement to Messrs Allison and Rignold. Matters musical are very quiet just now in the city. The Choral Society gave Mendelssohn's " Lobgesang " at the beginning of the month, and they have Spohr's "La3t Judgment" in re hearsal. Ita performance ia being looked forward to with much interest. So, too, is the arrival of the expected Opera Company, with its budget of long-deferred novelties.

GOLDFIELDS SUMMARY.

Thames, Wednesday. The general aspect of goldfield affairs has undergone little change since last mail. There have been no brilliant developments, but a few mines are paying their way, and other companies are prospecting and exist ing upon the hopeful anticipations which seldom desert mining communities. The Thames District has experienced some strange reverses of fortune during the fif teen years which have elapsed since its opening, and though matters in general aro not at present very cheering, the hope still lingers that another and brighter phase in its kaleidoscopic existence is not far dis tant. Much will depend upon the results of the prospecting works in progress at the at tho low levels, upon which the Deep Level Cross Company is now staking its all. The seaward crosscut has intersected a reef of rubbly quartz 3 feet in thickness, which is believed to be the footwall branch of that cross-lode. No gold has been seen up to the present, but the stone contains sufficient mineral to warrant further testing, and the manager has commenced driving southward on it. The seaward drive at the intermediate level has reached both branches of the cross lode, and prospecting is being carried on upon the hanging wall position.— Caledonion Low Level: In extending tho north ■ easterly tunnel at the 614 feet level this company has intersected three very promising reefs during the month The rock drill works well and its superiority tomanuallabourhasbeen fully demonstrated. —Queen of Beauty: The indications met with in tho leader at No. 10 (660 feet) level have been most tantalising.but the manager failed to find anything in the "nature of payable quartz. An error has been discovered in the cal culations as to the distance to be driven before reaching the Vanguard lode at No. 8 level, but it is confidently expected to bo intersected within the next 40 feet. —New Prince Imperial: A large cut-put of pay able crushing stuff is still being obtained from the stopes on Mariners reef, and also from the recently resumed workings on No. 2 lode eastward of the shaft at No. 4 level. An improved class of country has been mot with in sinking the shaft, the hard rock having changed its underlie, dipped southward, and almost disappeared. There are yet 30 feet to be sunk before opening No. 6 level but there will now be no* hard rock to traverse in crocs-cutting towards the reef.—Waiotahi: The directors have declared another divi dend of 2s 6d per share, which represents a gross sum of £750.—Mariner and London : These companies have exhausted their available funds and suspended operations. An amalgamation is mooted as probable.— Cambria: The sinking of the shaft has been completed and the well-hole is now being formed. The chamber of the 230 feet level is already excavated, and a crosscut towards the reef will be commenced next week. The winze below the 150 ft level has at tained the depth required, and a trial par col from the lode is being treated,—Cale donian : In opening the Bed Queen leaders at No. 2 level the manager has met with such good prospects that he is now sinking a winze with the intention of commencing operations at the 360 feet level. The Herald battery has 20 stampers engaged on the Company'e output.—Dart : The shaft has been sunk about 40 feet below No. 3 level. The workings on No. 2 and Alfred leaders aro producing payable quartz. —Kooky Point: This claim, hitherto in private hands, has passed into the possession of a company recently floated. Capital prospects are being met with in the Adelaide reef at a low level, and the mine may shortly take its stand among our regular gold producers. Belcher: A shaft is being sunk through splendid country, to. prove the auriferous reef discovered in the creek bed. Matters in Ohinemuri district are particularly quiet. Several claims at Karangahake, on the Walter Scott line of reef, are re ported to be looking well, and im proved returns are to hand from the Excelsior section of the Hauraki mine. A parcel of quartz from Hunt's new find at Eotokohu will be tested at the Moanataiari battery, Thames, next week.

SUKMABT OF GOLD RETUBJIS, From March 25th to April 22nd, Inclusive. Ozs. dwjfcs Adelaidotributes.. »' .• » lj> « Alburnla tributes .. .. .. •• '•> ™ • Belcher(Collarbone), 2loads.. .. 17 Caledonian, 170 loads 2«8 » Caledonian tributes 28 6 gSHSSfSUfetai.:: " » Hauraki (Karangahake) .. ..60 12 1/ Martha Extended (Waihi) .. .. 333 18 :•■/ Moanataiari, 71 tons .. .. ..100 0 / Moanataiari tributes .. .. •• "2 J2 / New Prince Imporial, 798 tons .. 572 10 / Now Manutau, IS tons .. .. .. » g 7 Retreat (Karangahake), o tons .. 13 » I BcubenParr, Bloads ~ .. •■ ,* "> Smile of Fortune (Otanui) ~ .. 19 I Ditto Tributes 50 14 Sundries •■• • ■■■••■■■ • • • • v»M " Thames Golden Crown. 120 tons .. &i IE WalotaUi.l3otouß,. w..»- .. .. 192 0 Waitekauri, No- 2 tributes ~ .. 99 1 Total.. ' .-3,108 17 >VAIORONGOMAI RETURNS. New ViUd. 330 tons .. .. ..382 * • Colonist, m tons 361 0 Premier, "Owns *» » Werohiko .. , 17 " t*— .-^—-TotftTT.' 80S 18

MASONIC.

The installation of officers at the Masonic Lodge Albion was performed on April 8, ---in the Lodge-room, Devonport, The Dis trict Grand Lodge of England, the Waite mata, Prince of Wales, and Remuera Lodgos were represented by the following Masons :—Brothers Lodder, D.D., G.M., B C • M. Niccol, P.M., 418 and 586, S.C.; Ponton, P.M., 089, E.C. ; Elliott, W.M., 689 XC. ; LeerS, P.M., 1,338, E.C; Clarke, W M 1,338, 8.C.; Cole, P.M., 689, E.C.; Laßoche, W.M., 1,730, E.C; McCullougb, PH., 533, S.C ; Suiter, P.M., 421, 1.C.; Wright, Acting W.M., 343, I.C. ; Durance, P.M., Ara; Cooper, W.M., Remuera. The Lodge was opened by Brother Brassey, Brother Lodder acting as Installing Master. Brother Gardner was placed in the chair of King Solomon. The following were then installed to off.ee:-S.W., P.M. M. Niccol; J W S Vosper; Treasurer, O. Mays; Secretary, W. S. Lyell; S.D., W. R. Moore; J.D., James Mays; Organist, J. A. Boale ; 1.G., C. Bailey; Steward, W. 11. Brown. The installation of officers was celebrated by an " At.Home," in DevonjporjS Hall the following week.

TU»efc year '.lie 2S banks of issue "in Ai?s <t««UvSfc had £19,372,358 paid up capital, and £5,512,045 reserves. The coin and bullion iwl* jr/aR £10,969,980, an increase of . £400,000 on *l*e preceding year. The de ,. ' posits during flip year had increased by || four millions and a half, while the advances H hod increased'by fourteen millions and a

MEETINGS.

A HKGELY attended meeting of seamen and others was held at the British Hotel on April 2, when Mr Gardner, as a deputation from the New Zealand Seamen's Union, whose head-quarters are at Otago, occupied the chair, and briefly explained that it was desirable that a branch of that institution should be formed here. The object of tho Union was to protect then own interests. The Union did not work antagonistic to employers; indeed, it had received the thanks of employers in the South, for if they asked for anything fair it was always granted. He expressed an opinion that in the two years from now almost every trade in New Zealand would be represented in the bonds of union. He urged both seamen and lumpers to band together with this object. On the motion of Mr R. Burns, seconded by Mr Perry, it was agreed: "That a branch of the New Zealand Seamen's Union bo established in Auckland."

A meeting of tho Auckland branch of tho New Zealand Seamon's Union was held at the Working Men's Club on the sth April. About 150 persons were present. Mr Heslop occupied the chair, and Mr Cooper acted as secretary pro. tern. Mr GanJinor pointed out various roasons for combination amongst seamen, and said they desired to secure both representation and protection. One object of the Union was to prevent the employmont of boys instead of men. Ho also objected to the employment of coloured labour, which, ho said, would drive Euro pean labour out of tho country. With referenco to foreign seamen, they wore not admitted to tho franchise until they had bo como naturalised British subjects. Mr Stout had agreed to introduces a bill next session to oxtendtho franchise to seamen. He (Mr Gardinor) thought seamen should bo allowed to record their votes, like miners' rights, holding good for ono or two years. Mr Marshall, Secretary of the Lumpers' Union, said that only seamen were admitted as members; and much was duo to Mr Gardiner for tho success that had attended the Union. About twenty seamen joined the Seamen's Union and paid their subscriptions, after which tho meeting was adjourned. Both the Lumpers' and Seamen's Union are to bo represented at tho Trades and Labour Council.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animate hold its second quarterly meet ing on the 9th April, at the Chamber of Commerce, F. Larkins, Esq., in the chair. In the unavoidable absence of the Secro tary, the Treasurer read the minutes of the last quarterly meeting, which were con firmed. Ho then read the report for the present quarter, to tho following effect:— That at present there were IS9 members who had paid 10s and upwards ; that tho Inspector had reported 41 cases of cruelty during this quarter—of these 36 had received cautions, 3 had boen prose cuted and convicted, and 2 summonses taken out but not yet served. Ladies' Committee—At a meeting held January the 14th, Mr Larkins undertook to write by tho following mail to England for literature to be distributed amongst the schools ; it was agreed that until its arrival the Ladies' Oommittee remain quiescent, when they would undertake the.distribu tion. Mr Burt moved, and Mr Hull seconded, that the report as read be adopted, which was carried. Tho Treasurer road his statement of accounts, which was approved and adopted. The rules ordered to be revised at the last quarterly meeting were read as altered, and ordered to be submitted at a special meeting to bo held at anjearly date, when the Committee truststhat an effort will bemadeto arouse thesympathy and interest of the community in the cause. Judgo Munro suggested that copies of the Actln Maori bo sent to the schoolmasters in Native Disticts, also, that names should be procured from tho Native Land Ollice ot persons likely toundertaketheh distribution amongst the Maoris, and copies forwarded to such persons as soon as possible. Pro posed by Judge Munro, seconded by Mr Burt, and carried, " that a vote of thanks be given toC. J. Hutchinson, Esq., for his valuable donation of American society's literature to be distributed amongst the schools.—A vote of thanks to tho Chairman concluded the meeting It is now 24 years since the date of tho establishment of St. Stephen's Orphanage, Parnell, and the twenty-fourth annual meeting of the friends and supporters of the Home was held on the afternoon of April -19, A copy of the annual report pre sented at the meeting is before us, and from it we glean the following facts -.—There are at the present time 64 children in the Home, viz,; 46 boys and 18 girls, as against 54 children at the commencement of tho sessional year. The largest number ever in the Home at one time was 67, in the year 1879. The past year ranks next in number. A necessity exists for the enlargement of the Home, especially the portion for the ac commodation of boys. The ages of the children in the Home range from 2 to 14 yeare, the preponderance being of children of about 8 years of age. There are 57 scholars at the dajr school, all of whom re ceive instruction in reading, writing, and arithmetic, Holy Scripture, geography, object lessons, and vocal music, while 24 are taught English grammar and composi tion, and history, and 48 children, viz., 32 boys and 16 girls, are taught needlework. During the past year 21 children have boen admitted into the Home, 4 being in tho nomination of Government, making 19 children at present in the Home, towards whose maintenance Government contri butes. Three children have during the year been placed at service, while seven have been removed by relatives. The health of the children has been remark ably good. The report points put that there has been a serious falling off in tho amount of the subscriptions, which falling off was no doubt due to the supposition that the Board of Management would be placed in ample funds from tho bequest of the late Mr Costley. But Mr Costless property had not yet been distributed, ana, even had it been so, the Board considered that they could only deal with the bequest as an endowment. In consequence of the deficiency, the Board had been compelled to obtain a temporary overdraft from the bank. During the year, a play-room and laundry had boen erected at a cost of £220. The Diocesan General Trust Board having given the Board tho lease for 21 years of a piece of land adjoining the Orphanage grounds, the Board intended erecting permanent buildings in which to impart industrial training. An assistant teacher had been appointed to relieve tho gover ness of the charge of the younger children. Tho report speaks in terms of praise of the satisfactory and able manner in which the matron, governess, and thoir assistants have performed their duties, and recorded the loss tho institution had sus tained through the death of Dr. Goldsbro'. Dr. Coom had been appointed honorary medical officer to the institution. The receipts during tho year amounted to £1,246 11s lid; the expenditure to £J,32118s 6d. Tho brethren of the Good Intent Lodge, L0.0.F., M.U., Auck. Dis., entertained P.P.G.M. H. J. Smith at dinner on April 18, on the occasion of his retirement from the position of Corresponding Secretary, which he has hejd for the Ijst fourteen years. About fifty gontlemen s.at dpwn to.anpx cellent spread provided iv hlie ,Oook-street Hall by Mr T. McEwin, of the City Buffet;. P.P.G.M. Cole presided, supported on his right by the guest of the evening, and on tho left by His Worship the Mayor. N.G. Maclu»y and P.G. Carter occupied the vice chairs', and wera supported by P.G. 's Brewin and Gow respectively. Amongst others pjregsnt were Mr A. Fleming, P.P.G.M. ; MrSyms, P.P.G.M.; MrG.'Leahy, P.P.G.M.; Mr G. Guild, P.P.G.M.; Mr J. 3. Holland, P.P.G.M.; Dr. V/alker; Mr C. Wright, P.P.D.G.M. ;Mr Mills, P.P.D.G.M., and Wardeu. The loyal and toasts customary on such occasions wore given and responded to. The Chairman then rose, and address ing tho assemblage, said it was declded_ at the lust quarterly meeting that something in the shape of a testimonial should be presented to P.P.G.M.Smithontheoccasion of his retirement from the position of Secretary, which ho had so long aftd so honourably filled. When Brother Smith first took office they held their uioot ings in the old Wheat Sheaf Hotel. At that time he was satisfied that Mr Smith pos sessed the abilities necessary to make a good secretary, and so It proved, ho having performed his duties to the satisfaction of all; During that time he (Mr Cole) had been Treasurer, and by association with so efficient a Secretary his duties had been rather a pleasure than otherwise. Every thing connected with the post of secretary hai been carried out in a manner that re flected credit pn Mr Smith, and to the Manchester Unity, A committee of 13 was appointed, to clerfda upon the form of the testimonial, aud they resolved upon the presentation pf a gold watch and chain. Mr Cole then read tho illuminated address as follows: —"Loyal Good Intent Lodge, No. 4369, Independent Order of Oddfellows, Man chester Un%, Auckland District.—Dear JBfr arid Brother,— On behalf of *he menjfcbj-s of £he above lodge, we have to request that you \vill Jundly appppt thia , address, JogeJ;her w£tih a gpjd watch, and chain, as » small token of the regard and esteem in which you are hojtj by them, and also in appreciation of thp many, valuable services rendered by you as

Secretary for the past fourteen years. We extremely regret your retirement from office, and it is tho prayer of all that God will protect you, and spare you to sojourn in our midst.—We are, Dear Sir and Brother, yours fraternally."—(Signed by the N.G. and Secretary.) Tho address was accom panied by a beautiful gold watch and albert, the former bearing the following inscription ;—" Presented to P.P.G.M. H. J. Smith by the members of tho Loyal Good Intent Lodge, No. 4369, 1.0.0. F., M.U., A.D., in recognition of the valuable services rendered by him as Secretary of the above Lodge during the past 14 years, Auckland, Now Zealand, 18th April, 1884." —P.P.G.M. Smith briefly responded, thank ing the brethren for the compliment they had paid him. He had always received the greatest kindness and courtesy from the members, and he trusted that equal good will would be extended to his successor, Mr J. McLcod. During his fourteen years of office, ho was only absent from his placo in tho lodge at two meetings, and that was when ho was on tho rampage with Mr Fleming down South. Enthusiastic cheers greeted the conclusion of Mr Smith's reply, his health having already boon drunk in bumpors. The dinner was followed by a a sociable dance.

DISGRACEFUL MARRIAGE CASE.

A Girl of Twelve Forced Into Wed-

lock at Auckland.

A most extraordinary case was com menced attho Resident Magistrate's Court, Wellington, on Saturday morning, 12th April. It carao up in tho simple form of an alleged broach of tho Maniago Act. Alice Lynch, a woman of apparently 30 years of "age, was charged with having, on tho 23rd of Novomber, 18S1, at Auckland, wilfully made a falso statement touching the a<_'o and parentage of one Emma May Howell, contrary to the provisions of the Marriago Act. Mrs Lynch, who is not represented by counsel, is also known as Mrs Howell, alias Trenian, alias Baxter. Mr Shaw appoircd for tho prosocution, and tho circumstances under which the proceedings wore instituted will bo best understood from that gentleman's opening, which was as follows:—Your Worships, tho evidence I have to oiler is of a somo what peculiar nature. This lady (indicat ing tho prisoner) is charged with practically making a false declaration for tho purposo of procuring tho marriago of her infant sister to a man named Monckton, with whom she (the prisoner) was then cohabit ing. We proposo to prove to tho Court that tho prisoner's sister, Emma Mary Howell, at tho time she went through tho marriage form, was only twelvo years and two months old. According to tho certifi cate of birth which I have in my hand, she was born on the -27th of September, 1569, at Napier; and wo will also prove that hor mother left the colony, and that her father, wo understand, is dead. Tho infant sister, at the time of tho marriage, was living with tho prisoner, who had deserted hor own husband, and was co habiting with Monckton, who had deserted his wifo. In order to keep this littlo girl in the house, Monckton conceived a plan that ho should go through tho form of marriage with her, though living at tho ti'mo with tho girl's sister. For this purposo the parties presented themselves beforo tho Kogistrar of Marriages at Auckland, in November, 1881, when the littlo girl was offered in marriage to Monckton by tho prisoner. To ac complish the marriago tho prisoner assumed the rule of mothor, and she signed tho certificate giving her consent to her sister's marriage, falsely stating her age, moreover, to bo ovor liftoen years. Therefore tho Registrar duly solomnisod tho marriage. The girl was afterwards brought back to her sister's house, and remained there, Monckton living alternately with one sister and tho other, dividing his attontions between tho two sisters. The young girl, who is the prosecutrix in this cage, will further provo that somo timo after this protended marriago her sister and tho man Monckton endeavoured to induce her to bocomo a prostitute, anel that fearing violence on her refusal, she lied to Sydney. We will show that tho elder couple then swors a false in formation, charging her with larceny, and upon that she was apprehended in Sydney and brought back here, and tho charge has since turned out to bo untrue. She took refuge in Wellington, and hor whoreabouts was discovered by threatening letters, stating that Monckton and tho prisoner would arrest her if she did not consent to carry on tho business of a prostitute in the city of Christchurch. Tho present sum mons was served on tho prisoner, and a summons has also been issued against Monckton. Tho prisoner thon bft Christ church secretly under a falso name by the steamship Wakatipu, from Lyttolton on her way to Sydney, to escape this charge. Tho police had timoly information of tho fact, and she was arrested on hor arrival in tho Wakatipu on Thursday afternoon. W^hen arrested sho admitted having made a falso declaration as to hor sister's ago, and said she "thought it was for tho child's good." This morning I only intend to provo the woman's arrest and admission, and then ask for an adjournment of the case for a week, a good deal of evidence having to bo collected, and tho Registrar having to be brought down from Auckland. Detective Campbell was called to provo the arrest. The prisoner was committed for trial.

At the Magistrate's Court, Wellington, on April 22, Alice Lynch was oharged with having at Auckland, on the 23rd Novom ber, 1881, made a false declaration touching the age and parentage of one Emma Mary Howell. Mr Shaw appoarod for the prosecution, and Mr Cutten for the defence. Emma Howell, alias Monckton, deposed that in tho month of November, ISBI, she was living in Auckland with her sister, the present defendant. When she left Wellington her father was in this city, living with another sister. Hor father/was now in a lunatic asylum. Her mother was dead. She was in Auckland for three or four months. On the 23rd of November, ISBI, the witness, Monckton, and her sister went to the Registry Office in Auckland. Prisoner toldjherthat.she was to gotjmarried. She was then twelve yoars and two months old. At that time she did not know what marriage was. She did not go to the office when ncr sister and Monckton made the declaration on the previous day. On the 22nd she was boarding at the convent, and was taken out and told she was to bo mar ried next day. She slept at her sister's house that night, and on the following morning she was married. She could not say who witnessed the marriage. She be lieved one witness was a messenger simply called in for the purpose. The other was her sister, the prisoner, who wrote hername asif she were witness's mother. Prisoner also told the Registrar that she waa her mother. Shefurther certified that her father was dead. By Mr Cutten: She had been living with the prisoner since she was a littlo girl, and had sometimes called her mother. She recollected when she first went to live with Mrs Lynch. The accused had clothed and fed her for several years. Monckton told her that if she did not marry him she and her sister would be turned out on the streets, For two years or so after the mar riage she had lived with Monckton. She had never acknowledged herself to be Monckton's wife. The letter produced signed " Emma Monckton " was written by witness, —The accused was then committed, bail being allowed, hersejf in £200 and two sureties in £100 each.

Charles Henry Monckton was then charged with a similar offence. Mr Lord gave similar evidence to that in the previous case. Mrs Lynch stated that she had been living with Monckton for about eight years, the greater part of that time as his Wife. ' Monckton did not appear at the ' Registry Office tho day before the liiarriage! He signed all the declarations on the day of the marriage. Witness was born in Auckland fn JSS4. and was now 30 years of a%o, Years ago she had a separation from her husband. Monckton was appointed her trustee under separation. He was then about 20 years of age. She came down to Wellington from Wanganui, and tried to Sgpport herself and tho girl Emma. She found that /she could not do so, and she went to jivfl with Moppktop. but not as his wife for some time, afterwards. Witness belioved that her sister waa now about 27 years of age, and that at the time tho mar riage took place she was about 15. Sho held this opinion on account of something her mother said. There was at ono time all sorts of yarns about tho parentage of tho child. Witness palmed it off as hers because she did not want people to know who she was. Mrs Beckwith, anoth r • sister, who was living nt Courtney Place, came up from Christchurch in the family way, and was married to Beckwith when the latter was drunk. Witness kept him drunk for a fortnight, in order that lie might-not asa jter sister's condition.—Mr Cutten contended that a ppfaiff ff,eie case had not been made out. Anyone could see that tho girl wns more than fifteen years of age, and no evidence had been brought to prove that at the time the declaration waa in*do the prisoner was aware the girl was under fitiuC*1* ftnt^ a* B'ie was no* Alice Lunch's sister. — Tie Bens. h thought the easp pnjß iop tjig Supreme Coufo tC Ve°id e > and tho prißpner was committed for trial"; bajs at £IOQ for tup'accuscd, and fcwp sjuro lie's of JESO each. ' ' "';*' -

NEW BAPTIST TABERNACLE.

Laying of the Foundation Stone,

The foundation stone of tho projected Baptist Tabornaole at the corner of Kara ngahape Road and Upper Queen-street was laid on April 14, with becoming impres siveness, and in tho presence of a very large concourse of people. Everything seems to have conspired to render the ceremonial as effective as possible. The weather is gloriously tine, and tho gala character of the day, with the appearance of the city en fete, of course deepens .the effect produced by the assemblage of a vast multitude of people in their best attire. Still further attraction is imparted to the scene by the grouping of tho Sun day-school children on graduated tiers of seats, specially erected for their accommo dation, in close contiguity to the scene of action. The young and talented paator of tho ilock looks elated over the inaugu ration of a work that will undoubtedly servo as a monument to porpetuato his name and memory in Auckland, tho people appear joyous and enthusiastic, and the whole character of the affair tends to show that it marks an epoch in the history of tho Baptist communion here. In common with their frionds and coadju tors of other sections of the Protestant Church, they have passed through many vicissitudes, endured frequent trials, and overcome numerous difficulties beforo emerging from their nonage as a church. In their- earliest stage of existence as a recognised congregation, they " roughed " it with henrty geocl-will, disdaining neither the use of a sparo auction mart, nor tho tawdry products of aprimitivo theatre for the purposes of public worship. As they grow in numerical strength and worldly wealth, this haphazard and makeshift kind of accom modation became no longer tolerable, and the nucleus of the present Baptist Church at tho cornor of Wollesloy and Chapel streets was built, to be followed in a few years more by tho addition of a school. The familiar wooden pile has stood thore for more than a quartor of a century, and many of tho children who formerly re ceived instruction in Its school now assist to guide tho dostinios of tho Church, while noarly all tho sturdy pionoora, " after life's fitful fovor," havo gone to thoir rest. Succeeding tho Kov. Mr Thornton, tho Roy. P. 11. Cornford ably and tenderly pro sided over tho congregation from its pre carious infancy to its lusty youth ; and tho Rev. A. W. Wobb modified its character with an infusion of his ownevangolicalzeal; but both pastors havo been eclipsed by their youthful succossor who nows fills tho pulpit. From.the advent of tho Key. Thomas Spur goon tho Church entered upon a coui-ho of rapid progress, both in membership and in spiritual activity. Tho reputation of the father, of course, was an adventitious oloment of groat potency in tho young minister's favour, but his own sterling qualitios and unquostionablo talonts rondcr him quite independent of any such extrinsic recom mendation or support. Ho took tho religious community by storm, and still retains his hold upon it, whilo into hiR congregation, then suffering a rolapso from prolonged revivalistic oxcitemont, ho breathed tho healthier spirit of a whole-souled and sus stained dovotion to his Master's causo. Vory soon tho old building proved inade quate, even when supplemented by tho adjoiuing school, to contain the eager crowds of worshippers, and tho Choral Hull was taken as an experiment for tho evoning nor vico. Many regarded tho result as very dubious indeed, but now even tho Choral Hall fails to moot tho demands of space levied upon it. To Mr Spurgoon himself is duo the inception of tho Tabernacle project, and than himself no one has more powerfully contributed to bring its feasibility within tho rangoof accomplished facts. Hisardour in tho work has been unflagging, and his exer tions have beon laborious. At tho vory out set he declared with characteristic plainness that he would nevor preach in the now cditico until it was ontirely free from debt, and to tho consummation of that end ho has been directing all his energies, seconded most cordially by his people. They have, through their deacons, bound thomsolves to tho minister's resolve, and already more than half tho necessary funds havo been raised, while a considorablo portion of the balanco is promised. Tho total cost is es timated at £12,000.

A full description of tho proposed struc ture has already appeared in theso columns, and it is unnecessary, thoroforo, to recapitulate dotails which must bo fresh in tho minds of our readers. Suffico it to say that tho building is to bo of brick, upon concrete foundations, and faced with plaster, whilo it will soat a larger number of people, porhapSjthan any othor church in Auckland. A verso of tho Doxology having boon sung, Dr. Kondordino delivered a brief address.

Upon tho platform were assembled tho Roys. T. Spurgeon, R. F. Macnicol, (.'. Carter, Robertson, Woolley, Fairbrothor, Whytock, 6. B. Monro, Bavin, T. Ifamor, and Messrs 8011, S. 11. Matthews, Dewar, Chambors, Gaze, Kelsey, S. Brown, Shalders (Baptist deacons), and James Edmiston (Secretary to Building Fund Committee).

After the singing of a hymn by tho Sun day-school children, (under tho leadership of Mr Rountree, and tho singing of another (viz., " Thou Who Hast in Zion Laid "), by the wholo assemblage, under the conductor ship of Mr Theo. Cooper, son., prayer lias ofl'orod up by the Rev. Thos. Spurgeon. Tho rov. gentleman then addressed the assemblage, and in tho cotirHO of his re marks read out the following declaration, a copy of which on vollum wae sealed up and placod under tho stono —"Built upon tho foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himsolf being the chief corner stono—2 Ephesians, v. 20. For tho worship of Almighty God, and for the proclamation of tho Gospel, the foundation stono of this Tabernacle to bo known as " Tho Auckland Tabornacle " in connection with the Baptist denomination was laid by Dr. T. Kenderdino on Easter Monday, April 14, in the year of our Lord, ISS4, being tho 47th year of the reign of Her Mtijesty Queen Victoria, His Excellency Sir Wm. Jervois being Governor of tho Colony, Pastor of tho Church, Thomas Spurgeon Deacons: Samuel Brown, Fredorick Batt ley, Edmund Bell, Alexander Dewar, Chas. Gaze, Chas. IKelsoy, Richard B. Shalders, John Chambers (treasurer), Scoring H. Matthews (secretary). Sunday-school|Super intondents : Frederick Battley and Gilbert S. Ilountreo. Architect of the Building : Edmund 8011. Builder: James J. Holland. Building Committee: Ehe above-named deacons, with Chas. Blomfield, Edmund Ellingham, James Edmiston, John W. James, and Isaac Watts. Amount of ten der for oroction of the building complete, £B,239.—Auckland, N.Z., 14th April 1884." Tho following articles were sealed up along with the declaration :—A Bible, Constttu tion of tho Church, last year's Church report, photograph oi the Wellesley-streot Church, photograph of tno present paster, complete set of the "Tabernacle Builder," Monday's " Herald," Evening Stak, and " Free Press," papor contaiaing hymns sung at special services on Sunday previous (Easter Sunday). Mr Spurgeon then presented to Dr. T. B. Kondordino with a suitably inscribedsilvor trowel tho gift of the Wellesley-streot congrega tion. The doctor laid the mortar, and the stone having been lowered to its place, lie tapped in the orthodox manner with a gilt mallet and declared the stone to be well and truly laid.

The Rev. Thomas Spurgeon expressed tho great happiness which he felt on tho occa sion, and his hope and belief that it was but the prelude to something better and blighter in the future, viz., the opening of the Tabernacle. They had been driven by stress of numbers to erect it, and it was scarcely necessary to tell them that thoso numbers were increasing every week. They were determined, if posslblo, to open the new building freo of debt, and to complete it without liability. To his mind, it was a disgrace to a Christian community that there should bo any debt upon their place of worship. His congregation were on doavouririg to set a now fashion in this respect, but it should have been spt long ago. Tho rev, gentleman then went on to enumerate the articles placed under the foundation stone.

Dr. Konderdine, after performing tho ceremony of laying tho stone, delivered a brief address, in the course of which lie stated tho great pleasure he felt at Mr Spur goon's resolvo to havo the Church opened free of debt, and his agreoment with him in thinking that the tolerance of debt upon their Churches was a disgrace to Christian communities. He was sure that tho true and whole Gospel would be preached in the new Tabernacle, and he warmly congratu lated all who were interested in its erection.

The Rev. J. Robertson also tendered his cordial congratulations to Mr Spurgeon and the Wellesley-street congregation. The Rev. Mr Carter pointed out that thoro were cases in which a church might legitimately remain in debt, and therefore deprecated any wholesale condemnation of the practice. Still, tliero were Church debts which should not exist at all.

Frofesßor Aldis remarked- that many speakers, when sailed upon for an address, avowed themselves unprepared and yet spoke elaborately, whereas he generally prepared what he believed to be an elegant speech,- ?nd yet failed to deliver it. Ho went on, however, to belie the latter stato jUjnt by gjying ft capital address, in the

course of which he pointed out that the true temple of God was tho lowly, humble, and pure heart. The Revs. Woollcy and Fairbrother also spoke. Mr Spurgeon then laid a cheque for £35 upon tho stone, saying that the bulk of the amount was made up of marriage fees. Other offerings wero mado until tho total reached £3SB, and it was subsequently still further supplemented. Tho proceedings closed with the Benediction.

The Solroc,

The celebrative soiree waa held in the evening in St. James's Hall, a considerable number of people proceeding there direct from the scene of the afternoon's cere monial. In consequenco the hall was half filled by half-past five o'clock, and tho tea commenced about six. There was a tremendous throng of guests, and the exigencies of spaces rendered neeossary thoir division into three or four relays. The trays wero supplied by tho ladies of the congregation. After the tea the public meeting was opened with devotional exercises. Tho church choir, under the leadership of Mr Theo. Cooper, .sen., were ranged upon tho platform, and scats there woro also occupied by the Revs. A. Reid, T. McKonzio Eraser, R. F. Macuicol, \V. S. Potter, A. Fairbrother, D.Whytock, and Mr Thomas Peacock, M.11.R.

ORDER OF THE REV CROSS.

Decoration of Miss Crisp.

Tiik investiture of Miss Crisp, lady superin tendent of the Auckland Hospital, with the Royal Red Cross, took place at Government House on tho aftornoon of April 20. Fully six or povou hundred ladies and gentlomen who had boon received by Lady Jorvois during tho " ■it homo" earlier in the afternoon assembled in tho ballroom to witness tho ceremony. Shortly after 4.U0 p.m. Lady Jervois entered tho room in company with Miss Jervois and Miss Crisp, and His Exco'.loncy the Governor and staff followed them im mediately afterwards. On tho dais, when tho coromony commoncod, were Sir F. Whitakor, His Worship tho Mayor and Mrs Waildol, Mrs Crisp, Mosßrs J. M. Clark, Thos. Poacock, M.H.R., E. A. Mackochnio, S. Uando, Col. Haultain, Dr. Cumpboll, Bishop Luck, Monsignor Fyues, Captain Davenoy, Dr. Hainee.

His Excellency said : Ladios and Gontlemen, —I havo espocial pleasure—it affords mo, indeed, unusual gratification— that it falls to my lot to take part in tho ceremony ot invosting Miss Crisp with the decoration which she has so nobly earnod. Miss Crisp's nanio is woll known to you all as tho superintendent of tho nursos of tho Auckland Hospital, also as ono who has boon engaged actively in hos pital management in tho mothor country, who has been ongagod in active servico during war, in two campaigns, and who on all occasions, and throughout her career in tho public servico, has given tho utmost satisfaction, not only to thoso above her, but to tho patients whom sho has tended, and with whom sho has evor had that sympathy which is almost moro to thorn than tho actual nursing of thoir maladies or their wouiklk. Now imagine a woman—a young woman, too^—imagino her atlHiuailia,wliorcthodust and IHchabounded in a manner that you in Now Zealand havo no idea of: where thoro wore none of tho comforts of lifo; whoro sho had to lie down on straw in a shod, just like any private soldier. Whon you think of her thoro in that position; hundreds of wounded coming in after a battle—somo with shattered limbs, and others bleeding with horrible gashes ; when you think that no less than somo 400 of theso wounded wero brought into this hospital at Ismailin, 1 think you must admit, that it is to no com mon porson that tlio duty of nursing them could bo entrusted. (Cheers.) Why, oven the sight of ono of these wounds would be sullicicnt to make most peoplo shudder, and what must bo tho courage, what must bo tho devotion of a young woman who is able to norvo herself to the work of tending the sick and wounded under such circumstances'/ I think you will agrco with mo that Her Majesty has done well in instituting the Order of the Red Cro«H, whereby those who perform such gallant service to thoir country may bo decorated ; and I think you will also agree with mo that Hoi1 Majesty did well in inviting to Windsor the ladies who had thus shown their devotion, and there herself, with bur own hand, pinning the decorations upon their breasts ; and 1 can only regret that Miss Crisp, who was ono of those who, lied *ho boon in England, would have gono down to Windsor and thoro had thin docoration presented to her by Her Majesty, will only liaro it pinned to her breast by Jlcr Majesty's representative. (Cheers). I wish that her Majesty could havo herself conferred thin honour upon licr. From .-ill her career, from all you have hoard, and, 1 venture to pay, from all you will hear of her, I think tho public of Auck land, and tho peoplo of New Zealand, nro to bo congratulated that thoy havo amongst them one like Miss Crisp as supcrintendant of nursos of ono of their hospitals. (Cheers.) She is capable of larger things, but st ill she does her duty therein a manner which gives satisfaction to all, as she has on all occasions previously, whatever may have be^n the degree or naturo of the duty with which she has b&on ontrusted. Ido not know, ladios and gentlemen, that 1 need say moro, but I mupt add that I heartily wish Miss Crisp success in her career, and I now have the greatest pleasure in pinning tho Red Cross upon her breast. (Loud cheers.) Tho cross was then placed on Miss Crisp's breast above tho medals which she already wears,

Lady and Miss Jervois congratulated the recipient of tho honour, whilo His Excel lency returned thanks on her behalf.

Tho gubernatorial party having witl: drawn, the assemblage dispersed.

SAD DOMESTIC TRAGEDY.

Doublo Murder and Suioido by a Half- Caste

New Plymouth^ April 7. News hns just reached here that Mrs Plum riilge (bettor known as Miss Higgins), a half-caste, well known in Wellington and Auckland, poisoned herself and two child ren with strychnine at about half-past eight o'clock this morning. It appeared sho came into New Plymouth and purchased five drachms of strychnino on Friday lastj to poison rats, as sho said. An inquest will bo held to-morrow.

Another Account,

OrimAKE, April 7.

Mrs Plumridge, a half-caste, poisoned hGrself and two children here last evening. Her brother, George Taylor, was in tho houso, and also a Maori boy named Touri. Taylor heard ono of tho boys retching, and went in to see him. Mrs Plumbridgo sent him to the constabulary camp for assistance, but did not say anything about poison, and when ho returned he found the mother and tho other boy poisoned also. Some letters, and a written statement as to the causo of the poisoning, wore loft by the unfortunate woman, which were taken possession of by the police

CHARGE OF MURDERING TWO CHILDREN.

Christchurcii, April 18. In the Supremo Court to-day, Ann Royal was charged with murdering her child ren William Robert and Emily Royal, on March 13. The charge in con nection with William Robert Royal was taken first. No fresh evidence was adduced. Tho jury, by direction of tho Judge, returned a vordict of not guilty, on tho ground of insanity. She was ordered to bo confined in Sunnysido till the pleasure of the Colonial Secretary is known. In the other case tho Crown Prosecutor will ask for leave from Wellington to enter a nolle proscqui.

MANSLAUGHTER BY A DOCTOR.

At tho Supremo Court, Dunedin, on Wed nesday, April 2, Dr. Parry, of Kaitangata, was charged with tho manslaughter of Sarah Ann Cuthbertson through malpractice in tho case of childbirth.

Thejuryfound, "ThatDr Parry in attempt, ing to deliver the woman, needlessly caused ariiptureof the vagiiia, from which the woman diecf." The evidence was that the doctor seemed in a drowsy condition, as if recover ing from some narcotic. One woman in the house deposed that in order to rouse him they washed his face, combed his hair, and changed his shirt. He fell off the sofa at one time, and they put him on it again, Eventually they sent him out into thegarden to get fresh qir. but he d.jd n.qt return, and. the patient diad ah houw after he left.' —For the defence, sevpral medical m,en, were called who gave evidence that caseg of internal rnpturo ba,d ooqured, bat the theory set up. by the prosecution was that rupture was oaused by external violence, and this the jury upheld by their verdict. His Honor sentenced the prisoner to four months' imprisonment without hard labour.

FIRES.

A Finß occurred at Christchurch on April 7, by which a four-roomed cottage was des troyed. A 12-roomed houso in Christchurch, oceu >iccl by Mr Sorenson, was destroyod by firo in Monday, April 7. A houflo owned and occupied by H. B. Soreneon, Richmond, Canterbury, was des troyed by fire on April S. J. L. Rees's coach factory at Kcinbor town Road, Fielding, was destroyed by hre on April 1. A house at Waiwera belonging to Antonio Russak, Puhoi, was totally destroyed by fire on April 1. A grocery shop and dwelling at tho corner of Colombo-street and Hally Road, Christ church, was burned down on April 12. An unoccupied houso at Port Chalmers, bolonging to Mr Gray, was burned down on April 18. The wool-shod on Drawer's estate,\\ aipu leurau, was burned down on April 17, No thing was saved. The Rountree slaughter • yard, Christ church, was destroyed by lire on April 15. The insurances amount to £300. An old building at Avonal, Invorcargill, formerly used as tho Governor Grey Hotel, was burned down on April 13. A firo took place at Palmerston North, Wellington, on April 14, which destroyed an oight-roomod houso owned and occupied by MrsColeman. On Thursday night, April 17, tho stablos and barn at J. Mclntosh's Hotel, Invorcar gill, wore burned down, ono horse being killed. Tho hotol narrowly escaped. A six-roomed houso in Wellington belong ing to Geo. Dixon was burned down on tho 25nd April. Insurances, £100 in Equit able and National offices. A throo-roomod houso belonging to Kobt. G-. Anderson, station-master, at Burkos, Dunedin, was destroyed by lire on Sunday morning, April C. A seven-roomed houso at Renwicktown, bolonging to Mr Bridon, and used for storing whoat, was totally dostroyed by faro on April 2. Tho cause of tho firo is un known. About 300 bushels of wheat wore burned. . . The bottling houso in connection witii Mossri. McGraid, McGregor, and Smiths brewery, at the Leith, Dunedin, was des troyed by fire, togother with some other outhouses on April 14. Tho damage done isestimated at £1,200. Tho wall-papers in ono of tho bedrooms in Barker's Criterion Hotol, Weatport, caught firo from a candlo loft burning when the proprietor's children went to bed. Half a-dozen rooms woro guttod beforo the fire was got under, and tho whole building and tho block had a narrow escape. A six-roomed house at Parawai, Thames, bolonging to Rawiri, was burned down on April G. It was uninhabited, but used as a storohouao. Tho houso is valuod at £190, and tho stores, such as potatoes, flour, hay, etc., at £50. Nothing was saved, and thoro woro no insurance. Tho causo is supposed to have been spontaneous contraction. Scarcoly has Tawhiao gone bofore ho has suffered loss by firo at Whatiwhatihoo. On Good Friday evening, iiro broko out in tho wharo of To Tulii, from a candlo left burning by Mrs Tuhi Atiria (Tawhiao's sister). Atiria had a good deal of tho king's proporty, heirlooms principally, in caro, which were destroyed. All her own property with tho oxcoption of tho clothes aho had on nro gono in tho iiro. Shortly boforo 11 a.m. on April 21, a four roomod uottago, situated at the lower end of Brighton Road, Parnoll, was destroyod by firo. Tho cottage was owned by Mr Samuel White, and was in tho occupation of a man named Daniel McGoary. There was a firo of light wood burning in tho trout room, and it is supposed that some sparks from this ignited tho woodwork near tho fireplace. None of tho furniture was saved. By the timo tho newly-formed Pnrnell Firo Brigade arrived they were too lato to be of any service A honso of nine rooms, owned by iMr Francis Croighton, and situated about soven miles distant from Papakura, was burned to the ground on tho 21st April. Every thing in tho building was destroyed, in cluding a new piano and valuable furniture. When the outbreak was first discovered, tho roof, a short distance from tho chimney, was in flames, which speedily spread and consumed the house. The building was insured, but tho owner will nevertheless bo a loser by the occurrence. A lire occurred soon after one: o clockn 'n.« jm Saturday. April 12. nnd resulted in tho rtostrm. tion of a bakohousc, stables, aiul stoie room in Ponsonby Komi. beloneinß to Goorw William Whitcombe, baker, and also a ■» t.)i houso. tho property of-Hruoo hloy 1. {he lire, which is supposed to have priKmntcd i. the b «. house, was llrst discovered by OopiKo » cminiK ton nightman, who aroused Mr \\ hitcoinbo, and . "nv-th admirable forcthoiiKlit removed Iho horses from tlio Btuble at tho rear. Nothing could be done to bovo the property inquest on but the efforts of tho Ponsonby coutmxer.t of hFire Brigade prorontcd the lire extending to tho ndiucont promises. Tho Auckland firo Urigado was early on tho scone, but its services wcro not called into roqmaltioii. About 1 o'clock a.m. on Monday, April 14, (i largo block of buildings in Day street, Invercartcill, between Mossra Stock & Co. 8 and tho Supremo Court, was burned down. Tho firo is supposed to havo originated in Messrs Yule and Co.1* drapery warehouse. Mr Allen, shoemaker, and Mr Bailey, chemist, were also burned out, but eavod some of thoir stock. The flames spread to tho building originally the Bank of New South Wales, which was occupied by Mr \V. Scott, carpet-makor, and woro only with difficulty kept from catching tho Court house. Tho loss, which is considerable, is pretty well covored by insurance. Another extensive firo occurred in Tay street, Invorcargill, on Monday morning, the 21st Aprjl, when tho Theatre Royal, the Provincial Hotol and Catholic school house woro burnt down. Tiio alarm was fir ß t given by a lodger in tho hotel, who was aroused by tho persistent howling of a doc chained in tho yard. Tho inmates all got out safely. The firo began in tho Theatro, which had not been occupiod since tho Salvation Army left it some weeks ago. The flamos quickly spread to tho hotel which adjoined the Theatro, and thon on another side, the old building formerly known as the Mechanics' Institute. Tho Brigade wa° soon at work, but with a limited water supply, could do nothing but protect the threatened build ings A portion of tho furniture was re moved from tho hotel, and a billiard table from the saloon. A small structuro along side used by Cockorill and Co., implement makers' office, was also destroyed. Tho recent fatal firo at Parnell has had the effect of rousing tho denizens of that sub urban borough to their duty in regard to the extinction of conflagrations ; and the newspaper discussion on tho subject of tho duties of the City Corporation has led to provision being made for tho protection of tho Ponsonby Ward. In Parnell a firo brigade of 12 men haa been formed. The members of this brigade are to have power to oloct their own officers, but the plant is to be under tho chargo of tho Council s waterworksofficors. ThoPonaonby body is on auxiliary firo brigade to act in conjunction with tho city brigade, under tho samo rules and conditions. It consists of six men, with Mr Goo. Smith, an experienced fireman, as acting foreman. The station is supplied with a hose reel and fire-escape ladder, to gether with hose and .other necessary appliances. Ono of the men is to sleep at the station, which will be connected by telephone with tho central firo brigado station, so that an alarm can be at* once given and tho locality of a fire known with certainty. News was rocoivod in town on Wednes day, April IG, that a firo had broken out tho previous night in Mr John Smyth's Bawihill at Waitekerei, noar Auckland, re sultingln the total destruction of tho builds ings and a quantity of timber. Mr Smyth arrrived in Auckland by tho aftornoon train. He informs us that the mill was working up till about six o'clock. The foreman, William McGee, lived within a chain of tho right-hand side of the building, and three or four of the men resided within a chain on the other side. At 10.30 that night, when the foreman turned in, there was no appoaranco of tho firo. At 2.30. in the morning ho was aroused b,y pnp oi the men on the ltiffc-haiid side shouting '"Firo I*' Lboking'but, he saw tho roof of the opginehouso and mill on firo. Without putting on his clothes ho rushed into the mill, but had to como back again, tho smoke being so donso that ho could noither sco nor do anything. In a vory few minutCß tho wholo roof of tho mill was ablazo. About 25 hands mustered, and water was poured on the fire at the rato of 50 buckets a minute, a pipe all tho while running a supply into a tub, into which the men dipped their buckets. Nothing could bo done to Bavo the mill, which wap destroyed with all its contents, not oven a tool being saved. Tho flames extended o the timber which surrounds tllftt": ,iuing. The men worked all night unceasingly try to extinguish the fire, but it waß not until 11 o'clock next day that they got \t in check, The. engine- hau.se was con gfrupted of iron "and ih »ill of wood. The premises were three years old, and cost over 38,500. A polioy of £300 in the ViQtorian office is the only insurance Mr Symth did not insure further, thinking himself perfootly safe. It is estimated that about 20,000 feet of timber valued at £60 or £7G was oonsumed. The total loss over and above the insurance will be £2,500, ; while some of the workmen also lose their tools, .... ' ...

OBITUARY NOTICES.

Captaik Pitfiold, of the Glonlora, died at sea, being found dead in his berth four days beforo reaching Lyttelton. Patrick Kelly, who has beon an inmate of tho Auckland Hospital for 15 years, died on April 17. Ho went to the Thames "rush, and a very short time after the opening of the field ho was crushed by a fall of earth in ono of the mines, and has been a paralytic ever sinco. In our obituary will be found tho death of Thomas Wilson, sixth son of John Wil son, who arrived in Auckland by tho ship Jane Giflbrd in 1842. The deceased was well known upon the Thames, being em ployed as amalgamator at the Hurunui bat tery for some years. Captain James Swan, of Raglan, died on Easter Sunday, aged G4 years. Deceased, who was greatly respected, had been 41 years in the colony. Ho will bo retnem borcd as tho person who, in the cutter Fly, took the first surveyors to Canterbury, prior to tho laying out of the town of Christchurch. Ho was for many years in the employment of Sir Win. Fitzherbort. Tho death is announced of Mr John Russell, of Nelson-street, who passed away on April 15 at his residence at thg advanced ago of 80 years. Deceased was a native of Glasgow, who emigrated to Victoria in tho days of tho early gold "rush," and after spending some years in business in Mel bourne came to Auckland. For about 20 years ho has been lessee of tolls on the Queen-street Wharf, and by his kindly dis position made many genuine friendships. For throe months back Mr Russell has been ailing, but ho died of general decay rathor than of any specific complaint. His death will cause real sorrow in many circles of Auckland and neighbourhood. His wife pre-deceased him by about two yoars, but ho is survived by five sons and three daughters. The death is announced of Mrs Rattray, wife of Captain Rattray, of Devonport. The deceased lady had attained a ripe old ago,- being in her Slst year, but her end was none the less sudden and unexpected. She had beon on a visit to Auckland on Thursday, 10th April, and returned by the lato steamer. Shortly after reaching her homo sho was attacked by a paralytic stroke, and though medical aid was at once obtained, it proved unavailing, and sho succumbed on Friday night, April 11, to the shock. Captain Rattray and his wife havo long been residents of this neighbourhood, having come to Auckland 34 years ago, and during that time they havo beon much respected by all classes of society. Several years ago the worthy couplo celebrated their "golden wedding," tho 50th anniversary oi their marriage, a privilego which comparatively very few peoplo enjoy.

INVENTIONS.

H. Cokrick, Christchurch, has made ap plication for a patent for what he calls an " inextabular boiler," and A. G. Cosgrave, Dunedin, has applied for a patent for opal enamel.

Andrews and Beavers, engineers, Christ church, apply for a patent for improvements in chaff-cutters.

Mr William E. Richardson, of Outram, Otago, applies for a patent for a "patent match economise!"."

Kobort Niediergesaess, of Wellington, has invented improvements in refrigerating machinery which are claimed to effect a saving of 90 per cent, in coal alone. Now Zealand patents are applied for as follows:—J. (I. Green, Duuedin, for a (loxible shoe-lift; Thos. Haycock, Rich mond, Noison, for skin purifier and stain eradicator; A. S. Ford, Coroinandel, for a crystal engine ; and Kobert Niedergesaess, Wellington, fora meat-thawing and drying apparatus. James Gray, engineer, Dunedin, applies for a patent for a staple for fixing fencing wire ; F. C. Asbury, of the famo city, for improvements in apparatus for heating the feed-water of boilers ; G. T. Booth, R. Mc- Donald, and Win. Ross, of Christchurch and Sydenham, for improvement in tine harrows; and Thos. Haxton and Georpe Beattie, Dunedin, for improvements in fencing standards. Patents are applied for as follows:—A. Binno, Maori Hill, Dunedin, for improved gas machine; J. W. Mansfield, Christ church, for sheet-metal standard for movable fences; Thos. R. Rosier, Christ church, for grass seed and grain-cleaning machine; Joshua Harrison, jun., Christ church, for knee and saddle protectors; Robt. Kennedy, Duuedin, for improve ments in scrubbing apparatus; A. J. Sohlaadt, 11. Schlaadt, and G. S. Barton, Dunedin, for water motors ; E. H. Elliott, Timaru, for the " acme automatic wire-barb cutter," and for an invention for the better securing of barbs on foneincc wire. Mr J. C. McLeod, Opotiki, received from the local Farmers' Club the following testi monial to his patent maize-cutting machine: —"The Committee of tho Opotiki Farmers' Club desire to tender you their thanks for the introduction of an implement of yeur own mako for tho purpose of cutting down maize stalk?, a want much felt in this dis trict, as hitherto this work has been done at much cost by manual labour. Our Vico-I'rcsidcnt, Mr Gordon, has fully tested your invontion, and speaks in the warmest terms of its capabilities. We trust you will sco your way to make tho necessary arrangements at once for its manufacture, en a scalo commensurate with tho wants of this and other maize-growing districts.— A. Reid, President."

CATTLE FOR AUCKLAND MARKETS.

Taupo, April 15. Oke hundred and seventy-foub head of cattle from Studholmo and Company's estate, with Mr Hazelden in charge, passed here to-day for the Cambridge and Auckland markets. Two hundred more are on the road from Adamson's station. A large moh of cattle from Stevens, Rangitikoi, will shortly pass here. In the course of the next Jour months ono thousand head of fat store cattle go through Taupo from Patea and West Coast, and twenty thousand sheep from Hawko's Bay, all for the Northern markets. The weather is good and thore is fair feed in the camping grounds.

YOUTHFUL ADVENTURERS.

Tlirco Juveniles on a Forilous Voyage of Discovery.

Tiiree lads named Henry Allom, George Spencer, and Bertie Spencer, left the Thames in an open boat on the 31st ult., determined on prosecuting a voyage of dis covory amongst the various islands and coastal ports of the North Island. They started with botli money and provisions lor a long voyage, and also a diary, in which it was intended to " log " the most important events of each day. It appears that after leafing Thames tho youthful voyagers pro ceeded to Coromandel, whore they remained for two days,and then steered for Cape Col villo. During tho voyage they met with very bad weathor,and woro for most of the timo in wet clothes. At Capo Colville they remained for two days,and thoir boat hav ing been a good deal knocked about, the greater part of their stay waa oooupied in ell'eoting necessary repairs. Tho cruise was resumed on the Oth inst., and the next place of coll was tho Barrier. Here they remained for a few days, and for some reason at present unexplained left young Allom tliero. The Spencers oon tinued the voyage alonp, and re solvod to conic on to Auckland. When betwoen tho Barrier and Kawau about 9 o'clock on the morning of tho 12th inst., the boat, which had been in poril for some time owing to the prevalence of boisterous weather, filled with water, and the voyage threatened to havo a fatal termina tion. Happily the' scow Result was passing, and the captain having ob served tho mishap and tho dangerous posi tion of the boys, proceeded with al', passible speed to their assistp.SEC 1 Hd succeeded in gstt-^n^ them on board" in a very exhausted state,'and afterwards hauled their frail era.ft on to tho vessel's deck. The boat was ranch damaged, arid tha Captain (Macdonald) says tha.t had two minutes more elapsed tho boys would havo been drowned. They were brought to Auckland in the scow, and proceeded to Homo Bay, arriving there at seven a.m. on tho 13th inst. Hero tho Spencer? stayed with Mr Mackay, and informed him that they intended to return to the Barrier for young Allom. Ho persuaded thorn not to do so, and they agreed to act upon his advice, They repaired their boat, and. ]eft t-.h ---harbour again at 8 o;oloc]i 5h t j ie oven " ing of tho 10th with the avowed intent*- o{ re t m ning to the Thames. They intended to pull pU night owing to the absents Ci wind, then pro ceed under sail during to-day. It is be lieved that, although the boys agreed not to go to the Barrier, they havo returned for their mate. The parents communicated with tho police, and Mr Superintendent Thomson has taken action with the object of preventing the lads continuing such a mad cruise as that upon which they have entered.

Thames, April 21. Tbo prolonged absence of the lads Spen cer and Allom is causing muca uneasiness." Nothing has been, hcafd of them sinee'they le.ft Auckland on Wednosday, April. 16. "'

ACCIDENTS AND INQUESTS.

A Maori chief named Piripi died on 9th April from tho effects of falling into a boil ing spring at Ohinemutu. The dead body of Patrick Crowley, who went amissing on Christmas Day, has been found in the Taieri River, Otago. • Joseph Pledger drowned himself at Dun troon, Otago, on April 2, having previously tied his hands. Robert Bryee, farmer, of Ashley, Canter bury, was killed on Friday, April 16, by a kick from his horse. Tho four-year-old son of Mr Speakman, baker, Featherstone, was drowned on Satur day, April 19, by falling down a well. | VVm. Brimmer, the well-known jockey,has been killed at Kamo by being run over by a loaded timber cart. Deceased's mother resides at Nowmarket. A man named YVm. Schulta, a labourer, droppod down dead while at tea in Prince's ; Crown Hotel, Otautau, Invercargill, on April 20. i Mr Win. Tennent, a commercial traveller, has been accidentally drowned by being thrown out of his buggy while crossing a river near Ophir, Vincent County, Otago. A boy of 12 years, named Win. Morland, has been accidentally shot by v rabbitting party. He will lose a thumb and some lingers. A boy under two years of age, son of W. B. Topp, was accidentally drowned at Aratapu on "Wednesday, April 2, in a drain near his parents' residence. Patrick Mc'Vady, farmer, Leeston, Can terbury, committed suicide on April 8 by taking strychnine. He had been drinking heavily, and was in pecuniary difficulties. John Duffield, a lunatic who recently epcivped from Suuuyside Asylum, was found drowned in the river at lleathcote, Canter bury, on April i). A body, identified as that of Thos. Grieve, buslnnan, was recontly washed ashore at Opotiki. At the inquest, a verdict of "Found drowned" was returned. A girl aged four years, daughter of Mr Powell, auctioneer, of Invercargill, acci dentally fell into a bath on Saturday even ing, April 12, and was very severely scalded. The sufferer died tho next evening. A dead body, evidently of a European shot about 20 years ago, has been found on the Tamahere Estate, Waikato. There is nothing to give a clue to the identity of the man, except that lie had been a soldier. A fatal accident occurred at Balcairn, Canterbury, on April 2. A young man named Sundy was driving a water cart, when the horses shied and capsized the cart, crushing Sundy to death. A farmer at Pukuro, near Oamaru, named Robert Walker was found dead on the North Road on April 4. He was riding home at night and had evidently been thrown from his horse. Chong Ton Tie, some time ago confined in Lawrence Gaol as a lunatic, bound him self hand and foot and then set fire to his hut. His scarred remains were subsequently found A settler named Hans Andersen, of Mnka rehi, Napier, took strychnine on April S, and died. Deceased was in *ow spirits from pecuniary difficulties. The poison bad been bought a year ago. An accident happened on the railway works on tho 10th April. A man named Timothy Long had his leg crushed by some earth falling on him. He will probably re cover. At the inquest on Louise Marion Plum ridge at Opunake, the jury found " That the deceased died through poison adminis tered by her own hands, but the evidence did not prove her state of mind at the time the poison was taken." A fight has occurred at Suva between two Polynesians, who met to decide a certain personal difference according to club law. The vanquished is now an inmate ot the hospital, and is not expected to recover from the injuries received. A young man named Prescott, in the em ploy of Rennio and Dornwell, butchers, Dunedin, committed suicide by hanging himself in a water-closet early on April 23. Monetary difficulties are supposed to be the cause. Ho was only recently married. A man named Thomas Nutgate was found on the Clive Road, Napier, at 6 p.m. on 9th April, having been pitched from his horse. He was carried home, where he died. He had been seen in the afternoon in a state of intoxication. A man named Frank Bennett left Moki hinu township, Westport, five weeks ago for the interior on a prospecting tour, and has not since been heard of. His provisions consisted of 201b of flour only. Great un easiness is felt for his safety, and the police havo been communicated with. John Reid, in the employ of Mr Fjndlay, timber merchant, Danedin,While measuring timber which was being loaded from the barque Enterprise at Port Chalmers Wharf, was struck by a piece of black pino 14 feet long, which fractured his skull. Deceased was fifty years of age, and unmarried. Thomas Ellors Hilery, an old resident of Blenheim, Marlborough, was found dead in his house on April 22, Deceased had been in bad circumstances lately and was drinking heavily. Death is believed to have resulted from an epileptic fit brought on by excessive alcoholism. A fatal shooting accident occurred on the Upper Plains, Masterton, on April 11. Two eons of Mr Kibblewhite, of Fernridge, were out shooting, when the elder brother fell. The gun he was carrying exploded, and the charge lodged in his brother's side, killing him almost immediately. Deceased was eight years of age. A man named J. De Camps was found dead in the clearing shed of the railway premises at Makatoku, Hawke's Bay, early on April 23. No particulars have reaobeq town further than that deceased was token on by the department yesterday. He was a blacksmith by trade, but quite a stranger in Napier. Mrs Gr'antuty, who, sustajn.ed: serious in juries to the thigh and head through falling from the upper story of a house in Albert street a short time ago, died at the Hospital on April 2. Thedeceased was a widow,and leaves several children. Her husband, who died about four years ago, was formerly an hotolkeepor at the Thames. A serious coach accident occurred on the Sandon Road, near Wellington, on Friday night, 18th April. A brake containing tho Fielding Amateur Dramatic Cowpany of twelve persons, including two ladies and a young child, wa.a pwoeeding to Sandon to give a performance, when it was capsized. Both ladies were seriously injured. One man had his leg broken. All the others are more or less injured. Information was received in tp,\v& «i the 22nd April of the suicide. o| a native at Kaikohe, Bay of Islands district, on Sun day, April 2Q. The deceased, who was named Harei Hopepa Tupare, shot himself, A coroner's inquest was held on the body, when a verdict was returned to the effect that deceased committed suicido whilst labouring under temporary insanity. According to a. cable message received: from Sydney, Captain Pillinger, of the schooner Louie, hailing from this poi-t, has unfortunately mot his death by drowning, Tho Louio was to proceed from Noumea to Louff Island for a cargo pi guano, with which she was to couw an to this port. AVo are not yet jrs possession of particulars respecting the fatal accident, but it is pro bable that it occurred between Noumea and Long Island, and that the news was con veyed thence to Sydney. Captain PyHngsr was well known in this port, antf leaves a. wife and family here. A man named Waiter Robertson, a journeyman bakdr, met his death' under mysterious circninstancea on the Nga tiauranga line, Wellington, on Thursday, April 17. Ho had been into town with a horse and cart, and started on the return journey. His body was found shortly after four in tho afternoon in a creek some 25 feet below the road, and had a severe cut on. the hoad. It is conjectured that ha \vas jerked cut of the cart and fell dQvpn the embank ment. He leaves ty vfife and three children. Early on. Sunday morning, April 20, the TOteif polioe were informed that the [dead body of a man was floating in the harbour, near Bailey's shipbuilding yard. Constable Mackay proceeded to the spot, and had the body: conveyed to' the Morguei He subse quently learned that the deceased was Edwin Welcome, a man who arrived from ' Taranaki about a weok ago, and who had I been lodging at a boarding house in Turner- I street. Welcome was last seen on Saturday ! nioynlng when he left his lodgings. It is j supposed that he mot his death by falling . from tho Queen-street Wharf, or from, the i aea wall adjacent, during Saturday night j AtKaiwakaon Thiyrs^y, March 2(7 al'ad , "?"« ™eh' ln -■:irner Dowson, eldest son J» W liiomns Dowson, of that place, mot i nis death by falling from a horse which he ] was riding. It appears that the horse which i he was vJding fell, and deceased was hurled { over his head, after which the horse polled over on his side and struck the unfortunate lad in the stomach with one of his hoofs. Master Dowson after this succeeded in re moving the saddlo and bridle from the | horse and carried them home, and it was ! concluded that tho lad had not been' seriously injured. He felt a little, weak i during the night, and restorative* were applied, but at 9 a.m. on tl^S foWiiig day I he died rather suddenly. An inquest was i held, when a y«;<U<s. of accidental death I was returned. ! An unmarried woman named, Catherine : Mpiarlane, a resident of Ne.lson-sfcreet at tempted suicide on. the Uth April by throwing hefrttlf from the. Railway Wbait

A life-buoy was cast towards her by Mr Pollock, and she insensibly grasped it and was drawn towards the wharf. She en tleavoured, however, to carry out her inten tion of self-destruction, but was unable to do so, and was hauled up to safety. From her language and manner it was evident that she was suffering from delirium tremens, and Constable Mackay, of the water police, placed her in the lock-up on a charge of drunkenness. The woman arrived in Auckland by the Guy Mannering about eighteen months ago. She bears a respect able character, and appears much dis tressed. When the steamer Ringarooma was off Kawau on Bth April, a saloon passenger, named John Henty, died suddenly! Mr Henty had been in the service of the Bank of New Zealand in Sydney for about nine years, and for some considerable time had charge of the George-street Bank. Two days after leaving Sydney, Mr ' Henty began to act strangely, and talked incoherently. His actions, too, were most 1 singular. Captain Tozer placed him in a special cabin, and gave special instructions that he should be well looked after. Yes • terday afternoon Captain Tozer went into Mr Hcnty's cabin, and said that he would soon be on shore, when the deceased rose and dressed himself. Ho then became some what excited, suddenly fell backwards, and expired. Upon arrival of the Ringarooma Dr. Tennent viewed the body, and Mr Giblin, of the Bank of New Zealand, who ' was sent for, gave directions for disposal of the body pending the inquest, which was subsequently held, when a verdict of death from natural causes was returned. | The performance at the Princess Theatre, Dunedin, terminated somewhat abruptly on the evening of tho 23nd April, owing to an accident, by which Miss Carry ! Nelson was severely injured. During the progress of the play of "Drink," at the second scene of the first act, viz., the wash house scene, while Miss Nelson, Missßosa ; mond, Miss St. John, and Mrs Knight were standing on a kind of bridge held by ropes at each end, and fastened by taking a turn round cleats nailed on two upright posts, and while they I were preparing to come down upon the Btage,one of the cleats suddenly gave way, and the four ladies fell to the bottom of the cellar amongst a lot of debris, the height being about 30ft. from where they were ■ standing. Miss Nelson is the principal ! sufferer, her back being injured to some degree, but it is hoped there will be no ' permanent hurt. Miss Rosamond's injuries appear to be a sprained and contused arm, ' while Miss St. John is severely crushed. . Mrs Knight has her knee injured and her ankle sprained. i The dead body of a man, with a bullet j wound in his head, was found in Hagley Park, Christchurch, on Sunday morning, 1 April 20. From a letter on the body it • appears that deceased was John Rosewell, 1 and his brother, .James Rosewell, is living j in Sydenham, and his wife at Devonport, England. In the letter, which was very sad reading, the unfortunate writer set out that he had been in the Royal Marine Service, and some four years ; ago was invalided through blood poisoning, j Since then he had suffered greatly, especially from pains, in the head. He came here in the lonic, arriving a few weeks ago, but though better on the voyage he soon ' had a return of his old malady. Failing to ' get relief from various doctors he applied to, he spent the last money he had—£2 in the purchase of a revolver, with the intention of destroying himself.ashedespaired of everob . taininga release from his pains. He wrote the first part of his letter on April 7, on which day he intended to shoot himself; but he went to see a druggist, then to Dr. Townscnd, and finally was admitted to the Hospital. No relief followed, however, and he says that he falsely stated he was better, in order to get out of the Hospital, and on April 15—the date of thesoeond portion of this letter—he appears to havo carried out the intention with which he bought the revolver. i Early on the morning of April 14, Mr . Newell, of Remuoia, reported to Constable Graham, the police officer in charge of the Newmarket station, that a man was running : aboutHunter'spaddocknoartheHarpof Erifl ' Hotel in a condition of complete nudity. Constable Graham at once proceeded to the | place indicated (distant about one and a i half miles from the Newmarket station), and there found an old man, who subsequently ■ gave the name of John Hendon, quite 1 naked. The poor fellow, who was evidently | very old and weak, quite rationally told tha 1 constable that he was very HI, and | thought he was going to die. , The remainder of his clothing and boots | were lying about, as though ho had taken. ! them off and thrown them down. Tha ■ old man told the constable that ho was ' nearly 100 years old ; he was very feeble, and wandered in his mind. Constable [ Graham dressed him, and conducted him along the road towards Newmarket. U hen the Junction Hotel was reached, : Hendon, who was becoming momentarily weaker, expressed a desire to sit down. : The kindlieavtsd policeman permitted him ' and proceeded to the hotel to procure'some | sthnulant for the poor old fellow, who was : very cold and completely exhausted. On returning a minute or two later he found 1 Hendon in extremis. The poor old fellow died without a struggle. Ghastly possibilities of a mysterious tragedy are suggested by the discovery the ■ other day of a human skeleton by the sida 1 of a long : disused track near the township of Hamilton, Waikato. Fragments of clothing, &c, prove it to be the body of a European soldier. The skull bears evidenca of having been pierced in two places by a nfle bullet, and the probability, is there. Joro, that the man, whoever he was was murdered. From the fact that the preseaft road has been in use seventeen or eighteen years, it is evident that the occurron.ee took (place soon after the close of the war. | btories of the mysterious disappearance of [ men at that period are hy no means un- I common, and some of the "old hands "may perhaps be able to reea.ll! some circumstances to their mmda which will serve to' connect %> remains with some, poor fellow whose hf o record ended. nonVof Ms: comrades knew how. A ccwvespondenfc | writes to the " Waikato Times '» that some tim J.™ tiKW 1865, if he recollects aright, a Militiaman left Cambridge for Hamilton to transact somo business ; that he reached t t'leJ a*ter m executed his commission, I started, ©n, Jim return journey, and waa never, afterwards seen. Little notice was taken of tho affair at the time, and the cor respondent says it had not come into afc mind for years before tie finding of these re mains recalled it, The police purpose keop ing the skeleton on view at tho barracks for some time in the hope that some cluo to ita identity may H f<- I\no>,-.jn i » rn V£' fi-;-< -■-^.-" occir.red on Good Friday, at noon, by which William Onyon, a young man of IS years of age, thg eldest son of Mr R. Onyon, Thames steam j boat agent, came to an untimely end It appears that the young man was in chareo of a barge load of timber intended for uso m the completion of tho railway from Hamilton to Te Aroha, and was being towed to Te Archa by the steam tngHuial Captain J M. Syms. Young Onyon was steering the bargo, and was the only party on board tho same. Coming round tha sharp bend; of the river, about S miles from To Avoha, it is supposed the tiller drew oufc somewhat from the hole or mortice in which it works, and the bargo un expectedly slewing round, i» see k. ing to right her course tho poor man brought heavy pressure i O . bear, causing the tiller to snap short off. The tille? was seen to break suddenly by tho^e on board, the Huia, precipitating the young wan over tho side of tho baree va%a the water. The fall would not Ec more than a couplo of feet, but tho water is tor some distance round some 15ft der-tK He quickly rose and at once struck »ufc being an excellent swimmor. The Captain reach him, ftt tho same calling out to Onyon "swim to. the shore my Soy." Ha rahed "all right," and aoing so . Ho got along all rig hfc until within about 20 ySrds of Ihe £&£&:<& £5

c i^ r i ßobert SaJmon, butcher, of Wb.Uk S^, Auc«»nd, who £ « nab le to meet tiu> demands of his creditors four or S.W years ago at Hamilton, has made the 2X*f hT° raUe and hisStorl to thefu 1 extent. Mr Salmon, byindustiT and: steady perseverance, has ieTn aWe to act the hon«t man's part ia the worldTanl nfthSr t ■ n receiv«ll payment £200. Thei orjxhtovs liad no legal elnim go that the action is a Very creditable onei

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 1884

4