NEWS OF THE MONTH.

AUCKLAND, N.Z.,

January 5, 18SIS.

Tin: Christmas and New Year holidays, as we write, aye drawing to a close, and business is struggling back into its normal position after the interruption entailed by a round of merry-making. The festive season has been observed with tho usual thoroughness of British holiday-makers. After the sacred and social observances connected with Christmas, came the high holiday of Boxing Day, when tho first clay's meeting of the Auckland Racing Club took place on tho course at Ellerslie. The races, which were well contested, were witnessed by over (J,OUO people. About an equal number of persons went by the various steamboat excursions to Sir George (iray's island of Kawau, Waiwora (Hot Springs), and other spots of beauty and interest in the vicinity of the city. For tho New Year holidays there were othor two days' racing at Ellerslie, and numerous excursions on Ist and 2nd January, all of which were well patronised. Tho distinctive feature of the New Year's Day celebration, however, was the Sabbath School children's fete in the Domain, which was attended by about 10,000 juveniles and adults. This is an annual event which is looked forward to with great interest, and seems every year to become more popular with tho community. During tho holidays JJiss Louise Pomeroy with an excellent dramatic company, has been per forming choice plays at the Opera House, while in the Theatre Royal a six days' walk ing match has been proceeding between Edwards, a noted Australian pedestrian, and three local men. Although the summer weather so far has been phenomenal in its severity—being accompanied by cold and rain such as have not been experienced here for over a quarter of a century—tho holidays were favoured with fine weather, so that all passed off as pleasantly as it was free from accident. Friends at Home, who do not know but can imagine what it i 3 for a city of 30,000 inhabitants to hold high festival in the genial open air, will therefore understand that the peoplo of Auckland have [been enjoying a particularly happy New Year.

A somewhat remarkablo decline in the Customs revenue of the colony forms an unfavourable subject for comment, but the fact, cannot be blinked. The December re turns show a total of a little over £100,000, which is £20,000 less than tho estimated monthly average. Not only so (for esti mates may Lie made on too liberal a basis), but it is £3,000 less than was recoived in November last, and £10,000 below the total' for December, ISS2. It is little consolation to know that the fulling-off is principally in the revenue received at the port of Lyttel ton, for it is evident that the dcclino of tho revenue i*> a matter which will prejudicially affect the whole of the colony. This ia no exceptional fall which has taken place, for month after month has shown the same tendency, until now the deficit for tho nine months of the financial year has reached the total of over £100,000*. Against the de cline of the Customs it is cheering to have to placo a very satisfactory report of pro perty tax receipts. Up to the last date for payments free of expenses the amount of property tax paid throughout tho colony amounted to £'215,000, which is within Jt'oOO of the Treasurer's estimate. It is expected that fully i'lo,ooo more will yet be paid, of which £4,500 by insurance companies is not duo till April. There is thus a certainty of the estimate of the Treasurer being exceeded by a respect able amount, while it is also hoped that tho bri?k trade which prevails throughout the North Island will extend to the rest of tho colony and lead to an increase in tin Customs revenue during the remaining three months of the financial year. The tobacco industry, which has for some time had but a precarious footing in the colony, is now in the way of being firmly established and proving highly remunera tive. We learn that the New Zealand Tobacco Growing and Manufacturing Com pany anticipate a return of some forty tons of tobacco leaf by March next from tho Auckland district alone, and that a con signment of the Company's machinery for cigars and tobacco is now on tho road to Now Zealand. "We understand tho shares are sought' after by tho public, who look unon the venture as a colonial industry, under tho guidance of nn excellent direc tory. The Company's works nre to be in Auckland, and their starting will cause a further demand for labour. Major Cantley, R.E., the officer selected by tho Home authorities at the request of the Colonial Government to plan and super vise colonial defences, arrived here by tho mail steamer on December 18, and has made an examination of Wellington harbour in (•onspany with His Excellency the Governor, with whom ho visits the other ports. The shipping returns for the port of Auckland fov the quarter ending December 31*t show that 71 vessels arrived, that the total tonnage was 38.395, and their crews numbered 1,799 men. Outwards there were 58 vessels, of a total tonnage of 30,885 tons, and crews numbering 1,582 men, Tho steamer Triumph, which at the date of onv last Summary was firm and fast on. the rocks under Tiritiri lighthouse, has now been floated off and brought safely into liarbour. Tho full reports of all matters affecting tho disaster, which we give elso whero, will show how engrossing has been the interest felt hero in tho stranding of the --steamer and her subsequent floating off; •the general feeling being that while the vessel's stranding was tho result of pure blundering, or incapacity, or worse, her floating off Is a tiiumph for local enterprise and engineering talent. On 13th December the stranded steamor was put up to auction, md with cargo and refrigeratoronly brought a total of £2,560. The hull was bought by Messrs Frascr and Tinno, engineers, for £2 100 and the purchasers at or.oo set about systematically and energetically to float her off the toakP. The cargo was quickly got out with the «d of divers, and the hole in the steamer's plates being temporarily stopped, the water was pumped out, and by tho 30th December she was afloat once nuw After necessary arrangements were made the vossol was towed into harbour on the 3rd in*fc., where sho now awaits repairs. The gold returns from the Auckland .roldfield have boen larger during the past twelve mouths than for three or four years, and Hie yield for the last month, was exceptionally high. Tho annual meet, mc of the IVinoe Imperial mino has also called forth SOW comment upon the ex traordinary prizes which occasionally re gard sold mining enterprise. This roiue has yielded during the last 12 months, gold to the value of £5/,5.-iB, ami has paid £35,000 in dividends, being equal to 3!)< per share. The amount paid b" tho original holders of these shares is only sixpence, and they have recoived in \i 'identis i' 2Ds per share within the Sust (~v o years—uncommonly good interest L Ifiiv investment, particularly when the Sw£*»wfcet value of the stock is added Xi tlip sun;, waived in dividends. We have very little doufcfc that the Thames hills con fin, more gold than feafl yet been taken out o them; tho trouble is where to find it. ■The history of tho Prince Imperial mine ix 1 lilios a. strikingly as any area on tho £o?S tho uncertainties of tho search for rtffonner proprietors were only stimulated ~ Son by the Mining Inspectors ~,7 forfeiture unless work were ™Ld. Thereupon, the claim was sold ill IfHfS fthfclv it va? at one time esteemed, we 1; if! r to'tho goldfields report of tho rwUY^tLt-Geologist, published ?°J|of which alludes to tho causes of the 'V, Stt ,V ff of the r«*s of gold at the 280 ---. c",";"?„■£ the Prineo Imperial wJw>." So '*!t W ever from the goi'd l,ayin«u»puf, iflgly noli runs to a depth o t fm °" th" remuneraiivc Q .at ""^ he >th the precious metal having greaier deptU,,J I y thg floor of jTTwcrt Svel" In further support of this the lowee* i«w- d that only three

In reply to the communication sent by the Trade and Labour Council to the City Council regarding ex-Mayor Clark's reply to the Hon. Mr Mitchelson's application for information regarding (lie state of the Auckland labour market, His Worship the Mayor (Mr Wadclel) has written stilling Hint the communication to the Minister of Public Works was forwarded under instructions from Mr Clark, the infor mation having been obtained from various labour officers and contractors. The state ment that the communication had been forwarded by the Town Clerk, in the absence of the Mayor, was incorrect.

While other places are holding or prepar ing to hold international exhibitions, New Zealand has been having an Industrial Exhibition of her own products and manu factures. This has been hold in Christ church, which, from the frequency of these " shows " within its boundaries, might be called the Exhibition City. On IStli December, when the Exhibition was opened, the Mayor, members of the City Council, and principal visitors, assembled at the Council Chambers and drove to the Exhibi tion, where they were received by the Com mittee of Management and conducted to the platform in the Art Gallery, the organ playing 0 march. The building was crowded, and among those on the platform were the Hon. W. Uolloston, Minister of Lands, the Hon. E. Mitchelson, Minister of Public Works, the Primate, Messrs Vincent I'yke, Fish, Thomson, Wright,lvess, White, O/Callaghan, and AUwrigfit, M.H.lt's., the Hon. Messrs Richardson, Peacock, Derenzio. Brett, and Orceson. The Mayor having declared the Exhibition open, three cheers were given for the Queen, the National Anthem being played on the organ. The covered space for exhibits amounted to 30,000 square feet, and the uncovered space for machinery to 25,000 square feet. The Exhibition is an exceedingly good one, all parts of New Zealand being well repre sented.

The New Zealand railways aye being in creasingly used, During the 32 weeks end ing 10th lilt., the passengers conveyed numbered 1,527,545, an increase of 5,494 over last year. The parcels, dogs, Ac., showed an increase of 9,275. Cattle, sheep, &c, exhibited an increase of 103,850, equal to 40 per cent, above last year. The goods conveyed amounted to 1,072,925 tons, an incrense of about 11 per cent. The quantity of grain carried was greater by 70 per cent, than last year. Though as a whole tho railways do not pay interest on cost of construction from their clear profits, it is apparent that with thisratioof increase in the traffic they will very soon be in that desirable position. Meanwhile, apart from the question of paying, they are most valu able aids to settlement and the development of the great resources of the country. Tho Harbour Board has received the fol lowing reply from the Public Works De partment to its request that the eastern forcshoro should be survoyed and a line of railway constructed from Penrose to Orakei, in consideration of their relinquish ment of the foreshore rights:—"Public Works Office, Wellington, November 2S, 18S3. Sir,—With reference to your letter of 2Gth September, I am directed by tho Minister for Public Works to inform you that instructions have been given to the District Engineer to make a survey of the proposed railway from Penroso to Orakei when he has a competent olliccr at liborty, so that the Government may move fully consider the matter on receipt thereof.—l have &c, C. T. Bf.n/.om, Acting TJnder-Secretary for Public Works.' A const-ant and conspicuous item in Now Zealand statistics is the increase of immigra tion over emigration, and the gain which we invariably receive from tho Australian colonies is pointed to as proof that this colony possesses superior attractions for the settler. During November last 2,380 per sons arrived in New Zealand from "foreign " ports (chiefly English), and 713 loft, the colony, showing a balance of 1,057 in favour of tho colony. The gain from Australia was 255, which included 20 Chinese. During the quarter ending 31st December, 1,52!).J adults arrived in Auckland, and 533A adults took their departure from these shores, proving that the population here his been receiving a considerable increase from im migration. The Hon. F. Whitaker returned from the Intercolonial Conference by the Wairarapa on Tuesday, December 25. Since his re turn tho following requisition has been presented to him:—"To tho Hon. F. Whit aker, M.L.C., Auckland. Sir, —Sensible of tho importance of a correct know ledge of tho proceedings of the recent Confederation Conference Meld in Sydney, of which you were a distinguished member, the undersigned, on behalf of their fellow colonists, venture to ask you to give an address on the important question of Federation and its bearing specially on the welfare of the Australasian colonies, and upon tho interests of the Empire at large. —We have tho honour to be, sir, your obedientservanta :—L. D. Nathan, President of the Chamber of Commerce ; C. B. Stone, Chairman of the Harbour Board; Thomas Peacock, J. M. Clark, J, C. Firth, W. ('. Daldy, J. M. Shera, J.Logan Campbell." Mr Whitaker has promised to givo the suggested address on Tuesday next, and tho Mayor has convened a public meeting in tho Theatre Royal for tho purpose.

Very general regret was felt in Auckland on receipt of the intelligence that the pro jected visit of Lord Roseberry to this colony had been abandoned. Lord and Lady Roseberry passed through Auckland by the last mail steamer from San Francisco, on which occasion tho illustrious visitors spent a considerable time on shore, and were the recipients of the hospitality of the then Mayor, Mr J. M. Clark. The noble strangers have since then made a tour of Australia, which they intended to close by visiting the different centres of population and placo3 of interest in New Zealand. A cable message lias, however, beon received by Mr Clark from Lord Rosoborry, expressing sorrow at having to abandon his intention.

Cheese and bacon factories continuo to spring up all over this district, and already the whole of the fine agricultural country is dotted with such dep&ts for tho producq of the farmer. These, combined with' a Farmers' Co-operative Association which has been started in tho AVaikato, will have the effect of materially furthering the agri cultural interest. Besides the factories atTe Awamutu, Paterangi, Hamilton, Rukuhia, AVaiuku, and other places, a new establish ment is to be opened in a few day 3at Puke kohe,which will receivetheproduce of awide district. For botli cheese and bacon there is a large local market, while the Australian colonies, the cheese of which especially is of inferior quality, are ready to take consider able imports at prices very remunerative to tho producer. Recently, two tons of To Awamutu cheese woro sold In Sydney at 9d per lb, and though 2d per lb of import duty must be de ducted from that figure, it is still highly satisfactory. The rising colony of Queensland, whose tropical climate makes it a poor cheese-producing country, also offers a splendid market for New Zealand pro duce, so that there is every prospect of an excellent and permanent outlet being found, close at hand, for our dairy products.

Since our last Summary the Hon. Native and Defence Minister lias continued liis negotiations with the kin^ito natives fur the execution of a general boundary survey of the lands owned by the lead ing tribes, preparatory to sub-divi sion surveys necessary for passing the land through the Court. The leading chiefs signed an application for this survey, which marks an extraordinary advance In the history of the native question in New Zealand. 'There was, however, some oppo sition from minor landowners, and a meeting took place in the Public Hall, Kihikihi, on Dec IS, between Hon. John Bryco, Native Minister, and the natives of that district, principally the Ngatiliauas, who aro opposed to the survey going on. Prior to this Ml' Bryco had held a private conference with somo of tho leading chiefs, including Kowi, Wahanui, and Hopa te Rangianini, while a meeting of the oppositionists was also held to prepare for meeting Mr Bryce. After greetings, Hauauru addressed Mr Bryce, objecting to the proposod survey, and stating that ho wished to deal with his own laud. Other leading men, including, Wiripi Pungarehu, a son of Hopa, echoixl these sentiments, and in reply to Mr Bryce's questions said that their reason was that the land had boon handed over to Tawhiao at the meet ing at Tf Kuiti, and it was not right that any other should interfere with that arrange ment Inreplying, Mrßrycerepeated whatho saidatWhatiwhatihoe to Tawhiao—that he could not recognise the sovereignty of the Maori King, except over his own tribe. The paper on which these lauds had been handed over to Tawhiao was just waste paper; there was no such authority in the country as was claimed for the Maori King. Vw !*iraself- Mr Bryce said he in tended to gfl forward ; his march was on ward, and he would not como back to con sult with them again. He wished them to manage their .own- lands, and it was to enable them to do so that he wished them- to put the lands through the Court. Their troubles would never cease till they did so, and he wished them good-bye, with tho hope that they would soon look at tho BWtter in the same light. The ten^eatment of objectors had a salu tary effect, and little serious opposition

been commenced, and will, if necessary, bo pressed on under the protection of the Armed Constabulary. Roads are also being laid oil' in what have hitherto been closed districts.

One of the first-fruits of Martini-Henry's splendid performances on tho Victorian turf this year was witnessed on Dec. 12 in the purchase of two Musket fillies from the New Zealand Stud Company for export to England. The purchaser was Mr Ashbury, late M.P. for Brighton, who is well known for his love of sport, and who was owner of the celebrated yacht Cambria, that won the international race—beating Mr James Gordon Bennett's Vesta. Mr Ashbury witnessed the running of Martini-Henry in tho Derby and Cup recently, and being much enamoured of the animal, came to Auckland to see his dam and sire. While being shown over the stock at Sylvia Park by Major Walmsley, Mr Ashbury greatly admired two fillies, one by Muskot—Moon light, and tho other by Muskot—All Steel, and these he resolved upon purchasing as carriage horses for himself. The purchase was concluded next day, and the two really line-looking animals will be sent to England by the steamer Doric. In Mr Ashbury's equipage at Homo they are sure to attract much attention, and this, tho first instance of Now Zealand-bred horses being taken to England, may prove the commencement of an important trade. The young Musket stock gave the public a tasto of their metal at the last, races, and the appreciation of New Zealand sports was shown in the pur chase of the two-year-old colt Trenton, by Musket—Frailty, for the .sum of iMOO, Mr O. C. Stead, of Christchurch, was the pur chaser.

In reply to invitations to visit Now Zea land, signed by'the Speaker and members, of the (general Assembly, Mr W. E. Gladstone, Premier of England, lias forwarded a letter through the Secretary of State for tho colonies to Sir W. F. Drummond Jervois. A copy of this letter lias just been received by Sir G, M. O'Rorke, Sneaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Gladstone, while acknowledging "with sentiments of respect and gratitude," the invitation from this "advancedandimportantcolony,"adds: —" It is unhappily impossible for me to comply with the invitation, on account of the constant pressure of my olficial duties, which ill admit of my removing even to points much nearer this island and this metropolis. It is not without much regret that I make this reply to your courteous proposal, for I am voiy sensible of tho prac tical benefits produced by interchange of visits botweou tho inhabitants of the differ ent parts of the Empire, in closer sym pathies as well as enlarged information. I fiavo many reasons for wishing to see this interchange frequent and ex tended, besides tho fact that nearly forty-nine years ago I was first placed in official relations with the colonies, and that the early impressions thus produced do not easily dopart. But all general considerations which 1 feel to be applicable toll in the case of New Zealand with peculiar force. Besides the fact that one of my near relations has a distinct in terest in it« prosperity, and has repeatedly visited its shores, and that one of my dearest friends was its first and illustrious bishop, I took a warm interest in tho pro ceedings connected with its earlier history, and I consider that in that history were worked out many r,f the soundest principles which now regulato tho colonial connoction, and which promise to make it alike honour able, beneficial, and enduring." Tho stigma which rests on Auckland of being a city without one benevolont society that personl! in distress can appeal to for aid will, we trust, be removed by tho action of our citizens at tho adjourned public meeting to be held on the Sth of January. The present season is one that calls to remembrance time-honoured associations of charity and good-will towards tho poor and needy, and if the outcome of the Christinas of ISS3 is a permanent society whose care it will be to seek out and relieve the unfor tunate, the season will become fruitful with blessings through the whole yjar to many of our suffering fellow-creatures. Past failure teacher! the importance of laying the foundations &i tho new society aright, and with the object of contributing to that end, we direct attention to tho following serie3 of resolutions which it is intended to submit at the approaching meeting. Friendly criticism and suggestions through the press or at the meeting are invited in order that the society may bo placed on as broad and popular a basis as possible :— 1. That tho Society be under tho manage ment of a committee, to consist of a presi dent, two vice-presidents, twelve gentlemen, and eight ladies as members of com mittee ; a treasurer and a secretary, 2. That an executive committee, consist ing of five gentlemen, be appointed by and from tho General Committee. 3. That the General Committee divide tho city into twenty districts and appoint a ladies' committee of twenty members, whose duty it shall bo to visit tho sick and poor and administer such relief ;us may bo necessary, subject to regulations to bo made by the General Committee. 4. That each lady of this Committee be empowered to select two or more assistants to aid her in the supervision of her district. 5. That all the churches of the Auckland Provincial District be invited to make a collection or collections on one Sunday in tho year, to bo called Charity Sunday, for the purposes of the Benevolent Society, fl. That all local public bodies and trado and benefit societies bo asked to givo an annual subscription for the samo purpose 7. That banks, insurance and other com panies, business firms, and householders be invited to contribute annually specific sums for tho support of the Society.

Mr Brycc has arranged for the survoy of a block of Government land at Aotea har bour, and also intends having a road made round the harbour.

The petition by Fiji colonists for annexa tion to New Zealand lias been framed because tho delegates sent to the Inter colonial Conference are wholly dissatisfied with the results obtained from the delibera tions of that Convention. Governor dcs Voeux's appearance at tho conference pre vented the admission of the elected repre sentatives, and it happened, therefore, that tho colonists, who have no voice in their own Government, were denied the oppor tunity of appealing in person to tho states men of Australasia, upon whose sympathy and help they had based very great hopes. Sir W. des Voeux typifies tho system under which the white settlors of Fiji arc groan ing, and from which they pray for deliver ance ; his voice at the Convontion was not the voice of the inhabitants of Fiji; his presence in an assembly of representative men was an anomaly, and in questionable taste. And among tho colonial delegates tho representatives of Fiji found a general lack of broad-minded-.grasp of tho subject. But though again thwarted in their aspira tions, the settlers of Fiji are animated by a spirit which in these days must prevail over any system of nomineeism ; and if all other means of constitutional ngitation fail, tho policy recently resolved upon by tho . Jamaica planters of refusing payment of all taxes until they are accorded self-government in somo form, may havo botter results. It would at once compel tho Imperial Government to give their ca.se that consideration which has been heretofore denied. Tho grievances of tho Fiji settlers, as set out in their peti tion, are substantial ones. With a tax ation representing £30 per head, they have no voico in tho expenditure of public reve nues ; they are denied the right of trial by jury in mixed cases, and havo practically no appeal, there being only ono Judge, and tho appeal lying to him from himself. Their aspirations find no expression through the Government of tho colony; their aims are misrepresented and thwarted, and they arc in chronic constitutional rebellion against their rulers. We are by no means sure, however, that New Zealand, much as the sympathies and interests of our people favour their petition, can substantially help them. But they may rely upon tho strong moral support of our loading public men. The petition for annexation to New Zealand was presented to the Premier when in Sydney, and wo believe the Fiji delegates have also consulted with Sir George Grey, whose absence from the Conference was a source of disappointment to them. Their perseverance evidences a sincerity that cannot fail of its reward.

WAR IN SAMOA.

Our Tonga correspondent writes:—"By news just to hand, it appears that wax has broken out in Samoa, at tho island of Tui tuila, between tho old and young King par ties. For some considerable time past a great amount of ill-feeling has existed at Tuituila between these two political parties, but it was not supposed that they woilld go to war. However, fortunately for the rest of the group, there were two men-of-war at Apia—the German man-of-war Hysma, and the British man-of-war Miranda. These immediately proceeded to Tuituila, together with the Consuls and the Rev. Mr Phillips, the missionary stationed at Apia and in connection with the London Missionary Society, and through their intervention and a dread, no doubt, of the men-of-war, the fighting for the present has ceased, and the land is at peace pneejnore, but for how long

OBITUARY NOTICES.

Mr Hepburn-, an old and respected Dune din resident, died suddenly on Dec. 9. Mr Maurice O'Sullivan, of the Prince of Wales Hotel, Ilobson-strcet, died on Dec. 0, in the i'oif y-iirsfc year of his age. MrE. J. Lee, M.H.R. for Selwyn, who has boon ill for some time, died on tlio 18th December. Captain Ditinin, who died at Ponsonby on Dec. 11, at tho age of 73, was a very old colonist. Ho arrived here with the 58th Regment in IS4">, and took part in the Hoke war. He subsequently served as captain in the Auckland Militia.

Mr Francis McMahon, late of the 58th Regiment, and formerly licensee of tho Nottingham Castle Hotel, died suddenly on December 27 of heart disease.

The Rev. Father Moreau, who has been a priest of the Catholic Church in New Zealand for many years, and was formerly in charge of the present dioeeso of Dunedin, died at Wanganui on the morning of Dec. 20, aged 81 years.

Mr John Martin died on the afternoon of Dec. S, at the house of Mr John Seabrook, Mary-street, Mount Eden, aged 72, after a short illness. In some respects Mr Martin was a remarkable man, although, compara tively, his natural modesty kept him in the shade. lie was of good family, born in 1811, in tho city of Gloucester, whore ho was educated and served his apprenticeship to a draper. Ho carried on a good business in that city and at Cardilt' for some years. Ife came to this colony with capital, with the A lbertland settlers, but lost ins money on tho land which ho purchased. Mr Martin was a linguist, and could speak French fluently, and ho understood German and Italian. For many years he was em ployed in tho oflico of the late Mr Joy, solicitor, and took much interest in Mutual Improvement Societies, to which ho oc casionally contributed papers. He was esteemed by all who knew him intimately for his amiable qualities. He was a widower, and leaves a grown-up son and daughter. He was buried in the Anglican Cemetery, in the presence of friends. The

funeral service* was conducted by tho Yen, Archdeacon Dudley.

Many people in Auckland, Onehunga, and Thames will learn with regret of the somewhat unexpected demise of an old and respected former resident of these districts. Mr David Philp, a native of Fifeshiro, Scotland, passed away on December 15, at his rosidenco, Anglesea-street, Auckland, at the ago of 64 years. Deceased came to tho colony over 20 years ago, and prior to that time ho hnd been in the service of the Bank of Scotland and ot the Edinburgh and Glasgow Bank. After arriving here, Mr Philp was manager of the Onehunga branch of the Bank of Auckland, and whon that institution closed its doors

ho removed to Thames, whero he acted as legal manager for a number of gold mining companios. Sinco the decline of tho mining industry, deceasod lias residod in Auckland, and lias hero, as elsewhere, been much esteemed by a circle of frionds. His final illness was only contracted last week, when, having got damped in a shower, a cold sottled upon his lungs, and congestion of those organs carried him oil' after a few days' illness. Deceased is survived by his dovotod partner in lifo and by two sons and two daughters. His family, we believe, aro loft in comfortable circumstances, decoasod having boon insured for a considerable sum, while his widow will bo in receipt of an annuity from the Bank of Scotland Widows' and Orphans' Fund. Tho funeral of deceased took place this afternoon at threo o'clock, and was largely attendod by sympathetic mourners. Mr Richard Grigg,known as "Tho Police Court Rhymer," died at 10 o'clock on tho morning of Dec. 1(5, at his residence in Dock stroet, Freeman's Bay. Mr (Jriggwas born in ISO") lit the Dolphin Inn, in Bidoford Market Place,overlooking the foamingTorridge. Ho wasoneofthirteen children, and waßappren ticed to a blacksmith at Bideford, but com pleted his term at Barnstaplo. While yet a young man he found his way to London, and worked for a short time in the great city.and for two years at Black heath. In IS.'SO ho emigrated to Welling ton, New Zealand, in the barque Cuba, under the Emigration Company, and roaehed Wellington after a tedious voyage of eight months. He worked there as a .ship's smith for two years, and left for Auckland in 1541." Ho at tended the sittings of the Police Court almost without intermission for thirty years for the only purpose of listenin;* to c:i*es and occasionally telling a native in tho Maori tongue that ho was charged with being drunk, and must pay 5s and costs. Some two years ago, Mr R. C. Bnrstow made a present of a handsome cushion to

the old man, and the gift was thoroughly appreciated. Mr Grigg was an honest, in oll'ensive man, nncl attended tho Court,

making crude rhymes as long as his health would permit.

The mortal remains of JudgoManmg, who died in London in July last, were consigned (o their last resting-place in (he Church of Kngtnud Cemetery, Symonds-ptreet, on tho Bth December. It will be remembered that it was the deceased gentleman's dying wish that Ilia body should be transported to Now Zealand and interred there in the land which he loved so well, whoso fortunes ho so materially contributed to advance, and whose early history and legends ho had striven so earnestly to roscuo from swift and irreclaimable oblivion. Tho weather for tho interment was very unfavourable. Noon was tho hour fixed for tho procession to start from Messrs Winks and Hall's establishment in Shortland-street (this firm being tho undertakers), and for two hours previously it had been rain ing steadily without any sign of abatement. At twelve the monotonous downfall was still going on, and the aspect of things mundane was bleak and cheerless inthoextrome. The assemblage of mourners, however, was numerous and representative despito those drawbacks. There was an unusually largo array of very old colonists, and nearly all tho gentlemen holding ollicial positions in Auckland wero present. According to arrangement tho corttgc was to have moved oft' in tho following order, but thero wero several modifications of do tail at tho starting point :—lot carriage: Sir G. M. O'Rorke, Dr. Campbell, and Mr John AVebster, and S. Jack son, senior (executors). 2nd carriage : Messrs Yon Stunner (llokianga), Abbott (old family solicitor of tho Mailings in Dublin), James Russell andS. Jackson, jun. 3rd carriage: Messrs W. Swanson. W. J. Hurst, Thos. l'oacook, M.H.R.'s, and It. G. Wood. 'Ith carriage: Judges Munro, Fenton, and Puckoy (Native Land Court), and Mr Burtt. sth carriage: Judge Rogan, Mr 11. Hobbs, M.H.U., Hons. Dr Pollen and P. Dignan, M.L.C. Gth carriage : Judge Seth Smith, Mr R. C. Barstow, Mr W. Seed (Com missioner of Customs), and Capt. Daldy. 7th carriago: Professors Aldis and Thomas. Bth carriage (press): Messrs H. Brett,' W. S. Wilson, G. M. Main, and J. M. Gcddis. 9th carriage: Mr and Mrs Hardiman (Judge Mailing's son-in-law and eldest daughter) and Mr Mailing (Judge Mailing's nephew). In the remaining carriages wo noticed Messrs Georgo Holdship, W. Berry, senr. ("Herald'1), P. A. Philips (Town Clerk), J. Winks, Graham Tawhai, Herowina Toko, Nopora (Hokianga), W. Batt. M. H. Roe, H. A. Wood, J. Hay, F. J. Mops, M.H.R., Howe (Hokianga), 6. M. Quintal, W. Motion, W. R. Waddel(Mayor-elect), Revs. J. X, Davis, R. Burrowes, Porter, Robertson, Whytock, and D. Bruce, Mr J M. Jervis, Mr AY. Swanson, jun., and Major Jackson. Shortly after 12 the coilin, which was made of a close, heavy wood like kauri, varnished and mounted and bound with brasswork, was carried out and deposited in the hearse, along with a cross and two wreaths of immortelles. Tho colh'n boro a brass shield upon its face tho following simple inscription:—"Frederick Edward Manin<*. Born sth July, 1811. Died 25th July, ISS3." Tho cortege proceeded by way of Queen and Upper Queen-streets to the Church of England cemetery, at the"central gato of which it was met by Bishop Cowie (who wore a surplice deeply bordered with black crape) and Yon. Archdeacon Dudley. Headed by these clergymen, tho former Of whom began to read the first portion of tho service, tho mourners moving on slowly down to the grave, which is situated next to that of Mrs Hancock (formerly of the United Servico Hotel). It is constructed of concrete, so that a public monument may at any time bo raised on the top of it. Archdoacon Dudley read the 39th Psalm, and then Bishop Cowie read the service of committal, during which the coffin, overlaid by the cross and wreaths of immortelles, was lowered to the receptacle prepared for it. His Lord ship then addressed the assemblage. He said that the largo assemblage of the citizens at the grave of the late Judge shewed the very general desire of the people of Auckland to pay respect to the memory of our departed brother. This respect for his memory was felt by them because they believed him to have had at heart the best interests of the colony, and to have done specially good work for it in early days by aiding personally in the preservation of peace between the colonists and the native race of these islands. Comparatively few of the present citizens of Auckland had had any personal acquaintance with the late Judge; but many of those who. had so

him, and there were thousands who had derived, and in time to come hundreds of thousands of New Zealandors would derive, entertainment and instruction from his published narratives of events that occurred in the earliest days of tho colony. The late Judge desired that his body should be buried in New Zealand, in token that up to the lost day of his life his thoughts were with us.

We havo to record the death of Charles Field Goldsbro', M.D., which took- place on Dec. 20, at his residency Parneil, in the

55th year of his age. The event was not unexpected, as the doctor had been ailing for many months, and since Sunday last lie had been in a state of unconsciousness. Dr. Goldsbro' was a son of a clergyman of Welshpool, North Wales, and at an early age turned to the study of medicine, in accordance with his taste and inclinations. He was educated at the Charter House School, London, and in London he com pleted his studies. He was in practice for some time in Finsbury Square, and held an appointment as surgeon to one of the departments in the General Post-Ollice. He was admitted, in ISSG, a member of the Roynl College of Surgeons, England, and Licentiate ot the Society of Apothecaries. He travelled on the Continent, and spent some months in Paris, visiting the princi pal schools of medicine and surgery ; sub sequently, in ISOO, went to Edinburgh, and became a Licentiate of the Royal College of Physicians. He left England for the colo nies in 1802. In 1866 ho became an M.B. of tho University of Sydney, and in 18CS an M.D. Ho held, among other medals, the Now Zealand war medal for services during the Waikato campaign of 1863. Dr. Golds bro' hold several Hnportantappointtnents in Auckland, such as Coroner of the Mount Eden Gaol and the Lunatic Asylum. He was also President of the Pension Fund, and was recently appointed Medical Superintendent of the Lock Hospital. For many years Dr, Goldsbro' took a warm interest in the affairs of St. Stephen's Orphanage, Parnell, and was a memoer of its Board of Management, He wan also honorary medical officer to this useful in stitution down to the period of his death. Numerous instances of his kindness to the little inmates, and of his generosity to the poor, are remembered. Dr. Goldsbro1 was a Mason, a brother of tho Waitomata Lodge, and Treasurer to the Grand District Lodge of Auckland. Those who knew the doctor will remem ber him as a genial, outspoken man, never mincing matters, but going straight to the immediate subject in hand. He had no ictitious pride in his nature, but was riondly and sociable in the English sense of the terms, and his friendliness of dis position exorcised a happy influence upon society generally. His outer life, full of activity, appeared to ordinary observers more given to business than to gossipy acquaintance and valueless small talk, so common in communities generally. He occasionally found time, however, to pass a quiot hour at the Club, and we believe, like-Dr. Johuson "ho loved to dine." His social qualities were estimable, and wo might add with due respect, very jolly. He had his trials like other men, and tho loss of a beloved son by accident some months since was an affliction which he keenly felt; and which told very perceptibly upon his physical constitu tion ; even trips to the South and Australia did not produce such satisfactory results as woro fondly anticipated by hia family and friends. Dr. Goldsbro' leaves a widow and family behind him. Tho interment took place in St. Stephen's Cemetery, Parnell, the burial service being conducted by Revs. C. M. Nelson (St. Paul's) and H. G. S. Wnlpole (St. Mary's).

Mrs llary Warnock died on Dec. 27 in her 74th year at Kyber Pass,after a few weeks illness. Tho deceased lady was tho widow of tho late Jamos Warnock, soap manu facturer, who arrived in this colony from Belfast in )BGS. Deceased was perfectly resigned, feeling that her end was approaching. Sho reoeived the mcdicnl attention of Dr. Dawson, and yesterday was seen by Dr. Kenderdine. Both gentlemen expressed but faint hopes of her recovery, owing to her great age. She leaves fivo sons and a number of grand children.

Mr David Hay, tho well-known nursery man at Hobson's Bay, whoso serious illness for Borne time back had given anxiety to his friends, passed away on January 1 at tho ripe age of (i 8 years. Deceased was an old settler, and though much esteemed had never pushed himsolf into public affairs. In his profession ho had tho repu tation of groat sagacity and skill, and for many years ho had most successfully conducted tho Montpellier Nursery, Hob son's Bay. He leaves a widow and grown-up family, but was predeceased by his brother, tho late Mr Win. Hay, Papakura.

Another old resident has passed away in tho person of Mrs Hayr, of Epsom, who died on the 20th Dec., at her rosidonce, aged 82 years. Arriving at Auckland in 18-13, the doceased ladytiad resided in the Epsom district for tho long period of 40 year.", during which time she had gathered round her a largo circlo of friends, who held her in high esteem, llor "golden wedding " celebration would have fallen on Christmas Day, and her S2ud birthday on New Year's Day ; but neither of thoso occasions was she spared to cele brate in this lifo. Sho loaves ono son, Mr James Hayr, of Threo Kings, with soveral grand-childron and great grand-children to mourn her loss.

RELIGIOUS.

It is said that tho Jesuit Collego near Dunedin is to bo closed.

Tho Baptist congregation at Cambridge have invited Roy. T. Grey, Canterbury, to bo thoir pastor.

A lot of Highlanders, in national costume, marched to St. Paul's Church, Christchurch, on Decomber 16.

• A Roman Catholic Chapel is about to bo erected at To Aroha, at a cost of £250, ex clusivo of seating. Mahbnoy and Co. are the architects, and Fcok and Allon tho builders.

Tho anniversary services of the Franklin Road Primitive Methodist Church wore hold on December 9, and suitable and impressive sermons preached by Revs. S. Macfarlano, D. W. Runciman, and W. ,T. Oliver.

The opening of the new Presbyterian Church at Te Awamutu took place on 16th Decomber, when servico was performed in the building by tho Rev. Mr Bruce, for merly of To Awamutu. The church was thronged. The Salvation Army held high festival during last few days at Christmas in Dune din. Contingents with brass bands having come up from Invercargill, Christchurch, &o. They held a sort of camp meeting at the Caledonian ground, thirty officers being present. The movement was begun'in April last, and the Army in New Zealand now numbers fully 2,500 persons, who aro commanded by thirty-fivo salaried officers. Tho grand bazaar and fancy fair in aid of the funds for liquidating the debt on St. Benedict's Church were opcued on tho 21st Dec, in tho Drill-shed by the Right Roy. Dr. Luck, 0.5.8., Roman Catholic Bishop of Auckland. The building was taste fully decorated with ferns and native plants, and tho walls graced with pictures, while overhead were representa tive banners and flags. At 2.20, the Bishop, attended by tho Rev. Monsignor Fynos, V.G., Roys. Walter Macdonald, Lenihan, and other of tho clergy, Messrs Mahoney, Boylan, and several well-known citizens, opened tho bazaar in a very brief speech. His Lordship considered that there was no necessity for a lengthened address ; they all knew tho ob ject of the undertaking, which was to assist the funds of St. Benedict's. It was a worthy object, and ho hoped the friends of tho Church would empty their pockets in favour of tho Church. Ho thanked tho ladies and friends for their exert ions and liberal donations to the bazaar, and trusted it would bo a great success. He would now declare the bazaar opened. STALLS. —No. 1 stall: Mrs Boylan, Miss Stokes, Miss Outhwaite, and lady assis tants. No. 2 : Mrs Brophy, Misses Larkins and Hagan. No. 3 : Mrs O'Brien, Misses O'Brien, Field, and Lorrigan. No. 4 : Mrs P, Dignan, MrsConley, Mrs Lynch and Miss Sheehan. Refreshment Btall, Miss O'Sul livan.

A bazaar in aid of funds for the erection of the proposed new Baptist Church was opened on Dec. 17th, in the Ponsonby Hall, which is very neatly decorated internally for the occasion, while a display of bunting over the facade of the building informs the passer-by of the nature of the proceedings within. The ladies of the congregation heave been preparing for the event for some considerable time past, and they certainly furnish abundant evidence of their skill, industry, and ingenuity. There are live stalls erected upon the ground floor of the hall, exclusive of two refreshment stalls which flank the main entrance, and a stand' of flowers and pot plants, the following ladies being in charge : —No. 1 (refreshment stall), Miss Carter and Miss Ada Owen ; No. la, Mrs Stanwell and Misses Carter and Hair; No. 2 (refreshment stall), Mrs Adams and Mrs Brown; No. 2a, Mrs Dewar, Mra Holloway, Miss Scott, Miss Smith, and Mrs E. Turley; No. 3, Mra Boliows and Mrs Thorn; No. 4, Mrs Owen, Mrs T. Dewar, Miss Knight and Miss Holloway; No. 5, Mrs Davis, Mra Gill, Miss Owen and Miss Ward. The various stalls were laden and thickly overhung with articles of fancy

of numerous designs, handsomely dressed dolls, antimacassar.-!, cosies, slippers, pin cushions, and children's clothing. On December S?2 the new church at Ellerslie was opened by Bishop Cowie, attended by several of the clergy. St. Mark's choir kindly gave their assistance, and tho musical portion of the service was

most successfully and beautifully rendered. Ellerslie—adist;ict of very recent growth —is fortunate in having amongst its inhabi tants persons of energy and taste, and their church shows that they arc possessed of a liberal spirit. The building is of wood (designed by a resident of Ellerslie) in the early English style, strictly adhered to. Great credit is due to the builder, who (under tho supervision of the designer) has carried out his con tract in a most satisfactory manner. On the opening day, which fortunately was a very fine one, the interior of the church (tho congregation being large) had a very pleasing appearance. On the altar table were two vases filled with white lilies, beautifully arranged. These flowers, emblems of purity, contrasting as they did with the red altar cloth and carpet, had quite an esthetic look, which reminded the spectators of pictures by theinspired painters of tho fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. These great artists considered the lily to be the most perfect of all flowers in regard to grace and elegance of form, and purity of colour. The lily is also a favourite with writers of all kinds, and its beauties have been celebrated both in prose and verse. "The beauty ot Solomon in all his glory was not equal to that of the lily." The following lines are very appropriate, for at this season the neighbourhood of Auckland is luxuriant in floral beauty:— " By the breath of flowers Thou callest us from city throngs and cares Back tothe woods, the birds, the mountain streams That sing of Thee, hack to free childhood's heart, Fresh with the dews of tenderness; Thou bidd'st Tho lilies of the field, with placid smile Reprove man's feverish strivings, and infuse TlirougU his worn soul a moro unworldly lifel With their soft holy breath." The Bishop held an ordination in St. Paul's Cathedral church on December 23. when Mr R. G. Boler, lately a master in Beresford-street school, was admitted to the Order of Deacons, and Pvev. E. J. Mc- Farland, 8.A., and Rev. P. S. Smallfield were ordained priests. Morning prayer was said at 10 a.m. by the in cumbent, assisted by Rev. J. W. Alloway, 8.A., who read the lessons. At 11 a.m., after the singing of hymn 50 and the recital of the Bidding Prayer, tho sermon, which was most appropriate to the occasion, was preached by Archdeacon )udlcy, who took as his text Eph. iv. 12 v. Tho candidates were next presented to the Bishop by the Archdeacon, and the Litany was said by the incumbent and the congre gation. At tho laying on of hands in the ordination of tho priests the Bishop was as sisted by tho clergymen before mentioned and tho Rev. 11. D. D. Sparling, 8.A., who also took part in the administration of the Holy Communion subsequently. The servieo was most impressive and reverent throughout, a circumstance due in no small degree to tho tasteful and judicious manipulation organ by the organist, MrW. if. Hardwick, Wo understand that Coromandel is to be the charge of Rev. R. G. Boler, the newly-ordaiifbd deacon.

The Christmas tree and gift auction in connection with St. James's Presbyterian Church opened on Dec. 20, and was attended with a large measure of success. The large hall was full of visitors, who bestowod their patronage liberally upon the various stalls. The ladies of the congrega tion worked energetically in the disposal of the articles placed under their charge, the (liifcrcnt departments being presided over as follows:—Stalls Nos. 1 and 2, by Mesdamos J. C. Macky, Macnicol, Lyall, and J. R. Hanna, Misses Hanna, and A. Reid. Stall No. 3 : Misses Reynolds, M. (iow, and Kennedy. No. 1 tree: Misses Geddis, J. Briton, M. Briton, J. McKay, and A. McKay. No. 2 tree: Misses Briton, Kennedy, Cromwell (2), E. Lloyd, and Mrs Sims. Refreshment stall : Mesdames Briton, Simpson, Gourlay, Misses Reid and Gourlay. Dr. Walker \tas present for a short time, and dispensed "electric shocks," to the amusement of many. Among those prosent were the Rev. R. F. Macnicol, pastor of St. James's Church, Mr P. Mackie, Sunday-school superintendent, and Mr Richardson, deputy superintendent, all of whom assisted in making tho gathering a ploasant one. The proceeds last evening wero above expectations, amounting to £50 4s 1(1, of which sum £15 15s was taken at tho doors. Tho Christmas tree and gift auction will again be open at 7 this evening, when some musical items will bo rendered and sundry other attractions provided.

Sunday School Festivals.

Tho Devonport Sunday School left on January 2 for Motutapu in the forry steamer Victoria, where they held their annual festival.

The Grafton Road Wosleyan Sunday school held n picnic near the Three Kings, and spent an enjoyable holiday, while the Ponsonby Wosleyan Sunday-school wont to Campbell's paddock in Shelly Beach Road, the children numbering about 250. During the day Mrs Harris, ono of the teachers, was presented with a set of glass flower stands.

The Franklin Road Primitive Mothodist School held thoir annual festival in the Surrey Hills estate yesterday. The scholars numbered 120, under Mr R. Chester (super intendent) and tho following teachers : — Messrs Jones, Lynch, Parsons (2), Harper, Chester, Strong, Booth and Morgan, Mes damos Weeks, Jones, Morgan, Bidlake, Misses Booth, Trayes, and several friends. An enjoyable day was spent. The children of the Ponsonby Baptist Church, under tho pastoral care of the Rev. C. Carter, were treated to their New Year E ionic on Jan. 2, in Campbell's paddock, holly Beach. A bountiful supply of pro visions and fruit was supplied, and the teachers woro most assiduous in their attentions upon tho young. A series of games was instituted, which caused much amusement. Many of the parents of the children and members of the congregation were present. On December 21 the children attending Mount Roskill School held their breaking up feast, and spent a most enjoyable day. The scholars took the opportunity of making a presentation to their head teacher, Miss Floteher, who is leaving the school to take another appointmont. The childi'en's Christmas gift consisted of a handsome music stool and an elegant pair of lustres. MissFletcher was very much affected at this mark of tho pupils' esteem, more especially as tho affair had been kept a profound secret. Mr and Mrs A. K. Taylor gave their annual treat to the pupils of St. Luke's Anglican Sunday-school on their fine grounds, at Mount Albert, on Saturday, 22nd Dec. Tho children, with their parents and friends, numbering ovor GO, were regaled with a bountiful supply of scason ablo dainties, and treated to their hearts' content of amusement. Beforo leaving they heartily cheered their generous entertainers. In tho evening the usual dance was held. Tho annual picnic of the Dovonport Pres byterian Sunday-school took place on Jan. 2, on the beach between Devonport and tho Lake. The children, mustering up wards of 70, and their teachers and nume rous friends who appeared on the scene, enjoyed a very pleasant and successful New Year's gathering. Prizes, kindly given by Mr Glenny, were duly contested in a series of games, abundant supplies of eatables being also to tho fore. The day, which luckily was fair and fine, was brought to a close by the ceremony of presenting Mr L. Harbutt, superintendent of Sabbath-school, and Miss Ferguson, in anticipation of thoir approaching marriage, with a beautiful family Bible, tho gift of the children and teachers of the school, and also with several articles of plate, the gift of the con gregation. Both the young lady and gentleman carry with them the warm esteem and well wishes of all, on account of their personal worth and the valuable services rendered by them, both in the Sabbath-school and in conducting (gratu itously) the choral services of the congrega tion. The presentations were made by tho Rev. Mr McCallum and Mr Murchie respec tively, and suitably acknowledged by Mr Harbutt. . The annual festival under the auspices ot the Sunday-school Union was hold in the Domain yesterday, and favoured by fine weather passed off very successfully. According to previous arrangement, the various schools met at the junction of Queen, Grey, and Wakefield-strcets at nine o'clock, each being distinguishable by its banners and smaller flags. The route was up Rutland-street and Wellesley street East, along Symonds-street, down Grafton Road and up the Domain Road, the order of procession being as follows: — Pitt and Edwin-streets Primitive Methodist Schools, 130 scholars, 8 teachers; Newton1 Congregational School, 400 scholars, 35 teachers; Pitt-street United Methodist School, 250 scholars, 21 teachers; Union street Wesleyan School, 100 scholars, 8 teachers; Beresford-street Congregational School, 255 scholars, 20 teachers; Pitt street Wesleyan School, 460 scholars, 45 teachers; Lome-street Wesleyan School, 50 scholars, 8 teachers; St. James's Presbyterian School, 440 scholars, 40 teachers; Wellesley street Baptist School,

street Primitive) Methodist School, 330 scholars, 30 teachers. The. prnonssion was accompanied by a l-.i i iiuder Bandmaster McComish, which played appropriate music until the Domain was reached, when, at a signal from the manager (Mr Seering H. Matthews) the schools separated and proceeded to the quarters allotted to them, the arrange ments being almost similar to those of last year. The following subur ban schools connected with the Union were also in the Domain. Parnell Wosleyan School, 140 scholars and 12 teachers; the Parnell Presbyterian School, 100 scholars, 7 teachers ; Mount Eden Bap tist School, 130 scholars, 11 teachers ; New market schools, 120 scholars, G teachers. During the day, amusements of a varied character were provided, each school furnishing its own tent and provisions. All schools partook of luncheon at 12.30 and tea at 4.30 p.m., and about five o'clock the procession again formed and proceeded to town, where the schools separated. Besides those connected with the Sunday schools there was a large at tendance in the Domain, making the total attendance during the day about 10,000.

ACCIDENTS AND INQUESTS.

James Harvey, bushfaller, was killed at Lotham on December 7 by a tree falling on him.

A young man named Alex Duncan, was accidentally drowned on Christmas Eve in pool at Rotoiti Lako, Ohinemutu.

A son of Andrew Dawson, a farmer of Longboach, Christchurch, was drowned while bathing in the sea on Dec. 9.

James Glen, son of a fishmonger, in Christchurch, was thrown from a cart, and died from the effects of the injuries sus tained.

Hugh Flanagan, a patient in Christchurch Hospital, who cut lus throat with a pen knife during the absence of tho nurse died on December 13.

Mr Andrew Smith, a shareholder in the Excelsior dredge, fell off the dredge on the 7th December into the Clutha River, Dune din, and was drowned.

G. W. Goodger, an ex-hotelkeeper and formerly Mayor of Cromwell, Otago, has been missing since Dec. 13. He was in bad health and low spirits.

Jane Edwards, dressmaker, aged forty years, died suddenly on December 21—it is supposed from apoplexy. Deceased was addicted to drinking.

Felix McCann was killed in sluicing a claim at Larrikins, on December 12, by a fall of stone from the face. He was aged 31, and a native of Armagh, Ireland.

An old toper named Robert Forshaw died in the police cell on the 19th Dee. Deceased was well known to the police as an habitual drunkard, and had many times been convicted.

Frederick Prahl, while riding in the Motupiko Valley, Nelson, was killed along with his horse by a dead tree falling on him. A friend who was with him had a narrow escape. Alex. Anderson, Cartcrton, has been arrested on the charge of attempting to murder his wife. After stabbing her in the neck, Anderson made oft", but w.as followed and captured by a policeman.

A man named Jas. Hughes, who has been working as gardener for Mr Moody, of Kyber Pass Road, was kicked by a horse. Several of his ribs \vero fractured, and his leg badly cut. George Scott, an Otago miner, has just died suddenly in Lake County, it is be lieved from tho effects of a fight he had with his mato, named Thomson. The latter is in custody. A miner named Joseph Stewart was found on Dec. 9, near Westport, with hia throat cut and quite dead, Verdict of Coroner's jury : "Suicide while of unsound mind from the effects of drink."

A man named Edward Donkin, formerly employed at Cowper and Knight's station, Woodville, has committed suicide at Wai toki. The body was found hanging to a tree in the bush on January 2 by Cowper. Thomas Bissett, a fisherman, was killed by falling over a precipice 100 feet high at Maisford town. His wife refused to go for beer, and he left home for it. The body was fearfully mangled. He was drunk at the time.

A young single man named Edward Bradisk was killed at the South Pacific Oil Springs, Gisborne, on December 28. His hand was caught in the rope, coiling round the arm. Tho next coil went round his neck. Death was instantaneous.

Another serious accident occurred on the tram line at Christchurch on December 27. Charles Newman, letter carrier, endeavoured to get on tho tram car, but slipped and fell, the tram passing over his left arm, which had subsequently to be amputated.

At the inquest on the body of Mrs Mar garet Gordon, found dead in Albert-street, the evidence of Dr. Dawson showed that death resulted from apoplexy, superinduced by excessive drinking. Thero was a large clot of blood on tho brain. Verdict returned accordingly. On December 15th, a young girl named Kate Boylan, aged 19, engaged as domostic servant to a gentleman in Wellington, gave birth to a full-grown female child; and sub sequently tho infant was discovered dead in an outhause. The body was removed to await an inquest. An axe stained with blood has been discovered.

Berkeley Mursell, Government Insurance agent, cut his throat at Dillman's Town on the evening of December 13. He was in a desponding state of mind owing to the ill ness of a child of whom ho was very fond. He was brought to the hospital, and his condition continues very precarious. His wrist is also cut badly.

In the case of child-murder at Welling ton, the Coroner's jury brought in a verdict of wilful murder against the mother, a domestic servant named Kate Boyle. The medical evidence showed that there was not the slightest doubt the child had been born alive, and there were marks of violence about it which had undoubtedly caustd death.

A resident of the Great Barrier named Emauuel Silva left his home to proceed to a small island a short distance off on the 13th Dec. The boat in which he started has since been found bottom up, but with all sail set, and it is concluded that she must have been capsized and its occupant drowned. Silva leaves a wife and an adopted daughter, who reside on the Great Barrier Island.

A little girl named Probert narrowly escaped death by drowning at Mototapu on Boxing Day. She fell into a creek near tho Messrs Read's residence, and quite disappeared in the mud. A man named Askew plunged in after her, and though the mud and water reached his neck, succeeded in rescuing tho girl little the worse of her adventure.

An elderly man, Thos. G. Pickers, who had for a number of years beon employed by tho Wellington City Council, committed suicide by hanging himself at Wellington on Decomber 2(>. He was aged 64, and had been depressed for somo timo. A man named Robert Mills also attempted suicide by throwing himsolf in the harbour at Wei lington. He was rescued by some young men.

A serious accident occurred at the Thames on December 20, in the Dart mine, to a young man named Robert Wilson, stepson of W. 11. Potts. He was about to leave his work for the day, and was collect ing his blunt tools for conveyance to the surface, when a large piece of mullock, weighing about Scwt, becoming loosened by a soapy head, fell upon him. He was bruised about the head, cut in the fleshy part of the right arm, and his right ankle was badly dislocated. A lad about twelve years of ago, named Georgo Rutherford, who was one of a school picnic party, and was returning from the suburbs, by some means fell from the top of a two-deck tram, and the wheel passing over him, he was killed, at Dunodin, on December 27. At the inquest a verdict of "Accidental death" was returned. At a picnic, the other children left the car, but deceased asked permission to continue the journey for a few miles, when he fell over the side of the car.

A man named Jacobs was drowned on January 2 while returning from Bllesmere (Canterbury) Regatta in a boat. He was in the employ of Mr H. McDonald, and was in a flat-bottomed boat with a son of his em ployer. The water was rough, with choppy waves, and the boat ■ overturned. Both clung to it for a long time, but Jacobs at last fell off. It was dark at the time. The boat drifted ashore with McDonald, who was so exhausted with cold that, wet as he was, he went to sleep, and did not wake till daylight. An inquest was held on January 2, at the Hibernian Hotel, Onehunga, before Dr. Philson, Coroner, on the body of a man found dead in the street. The fol lowing additional evidence was adduced which led to the identity of deceased. Edward Jones, a carter, recognised the body as that of Thomas Spicket, a carpenter by trade; he worked several months in Onehunga, and was a native of Beaumaris, in North Wales. Thomas Scott had also worked with deceased in London before he came to this country. Dr. Scott had made a post mortem examination, and had no doubt but the cause of death was serous apoplexy. The jury found in accordance with the medical testimony, - . ■

An elderly woman named Hamliu died under peculiar circumstances in the Hos pital on Due. 11, She was a resident of Stokes Valley, Upper Hutt, and on the 30th ultimo, when entering her house, a lad

fired a gun. There was no shot in the gun, but the powder lodged in her left arm above the wrist. Amputation was found necessary, but the poor old lady succumbed under the operation. She was aged 70. It is not yet known under what circumstances the gun was fired. An elderly man named Woods, while in an advanced state of intoxication, had a narrow escape from drowning in the harbour at 3 o'clock on December 29. He fell from one of the ferry steamers, and being unable to swim, it was feared that he could not be rescued, A crew put off to his assistance in a boat belonging to the Fanny Thornton, and succeeded in saving the man who was in a very exhausted sondition. He was taken to the police station by Constables Fore man and Macdonald where restoratives were applied, Information has been received of the sudden death of John Black, aged 20, a native of Glasgow, who has been employed at Tairua Mill since April. On Sunday morning, Dee. IG, deceased was bathing with others beside Tairua Wharf, when he was observed to grasp the stringers and appeared to attempt to speak. His com panions plunged in and assisted him on to the wharf, by which time he was quite dead. They state positively that his head did not go under the water during the oc currence. Deceased has no relations in the colony.

An inquiry was held at the Bluff (Invercargill), on January 1, boforo the Collector of Customs, concerning the disappearance of a passenger from tho steamer Tarawera, during her passage from Hobart to the Bluff. The evidence went to show that the man in question, John Henry Balymere, had been in charge of a doctor and servant, being of unsound mind, and that lie was missed on 12th December. A strict search was made, but he could not be found, and it was concluded that he had either fallen or thrown himself overboard.

A narrow escape from death by poisoning occurred at the Kohimarama Industrial School on December 21, One of the boys had been eating some wild berries—prob ably Tupakihi berries —and immediately afterwards he exhibited symptoms of poison ing, being seized with convulsionsandbecom ing unconscious. The master (Mr Hogan) at once sent in an urgent message to the police for medical assistance, and Sergeant Mahon communicated with Dr. Lee, that gentleman went out with the utmost ex pedition. He found the child in a critical state, but by prompt and judicious treat ment brought nim round. The youngster is now doing well. A fatal boating accidont occurred in tho harbour at Wellington late on Christ mas night. Three young men, named Harry Lee, Jas. Wall, and Thomas Wil liams, left Ngatauranga in a boat at 10 o'clock that night on a fishing excur sion. When out a mile, one Of the pars men missed a stroke, and this caused the boat to oapslze. Williams clung to tho overturned boat, but the others dissappeared and were drowned, Williams's cries were heardfromshore, and a Norwegian (Trueman)

hastily constructed a raft with some planks and went in search. He was successful in rescuing Williams in a most exhausted condition. Both men drowned were un married. The bodies were not recovered.

A man named John Hatton was drowned on December 24 in the Ohinemuri River at Te Aroha under rather peculiar circum stances. The body was found face down wards at the margin of the river near the Smile of Fostune Dattery, the head being under water, but the back quite dry as if it had not been immersed. From the posi tion it would appear that deceased had been drinking of river water, and from some cause been unable to raise his head, and so been smothered. Life had apparently been extinct about 20 hours when the remains were found. Hatton is an old Thames resi dent, having assisted in the erection of many of the principal crushing plants. He was 45 years old, and leaves a wife and four young children. An occurrence of a most singular nature formed the subject of a Coroner's inquest at the York Hotel, Newton, on the afternoon of December 12. The inquest was on the body of John William Ewart, an infant of four months, who was found dead in bed at his parents' residence, Upper Queen-street, Newton. Dr. Philson was the officiating coroner, while Mr T. B. Heath was chosen foreman of the jury. The evidence of Dr. Stockwell, who had made a post-mortem examination of the body, was to the effect that death had been caused by convulsions, brought on by overfeeding. The child had been fed with Neavo's farinaceous food, and tho milk had curdled on the stomach.form ing into a cheesy matter—convulsions being the result. A verdict was returned in accordance with this evidence.

A very sad and painful fatal accident occurred at Abboteford, five miles from Dunedin, on December 9th. Four lads left town in the morning on a rabbit-shooting excursion. Amongst them was William Street, aged 15, son of the Mayor-elect. In the afternoon, a large number of gentlemen, by invitation, visited the Saddle, Hill Com pany's quartz mine, where new machinery was being started. This mine is in the neighbourhood of Abbotsford, and amongst the gentlemen was Mr Street, who had arranged to meet his son at the mine. The lads all arrived at the mine in duo course, and whilst in one of the. buildings one of them, named Hawkes, accidentally dis charged his gun, shooting young Street in the head and killing him almost instan taneously. An inquest was held the follow day, and a verdict of " Accidental death " was returned.

A man named James Sherriff, aged G2, em ployed as engineer at Messrs Cousins and Atkins ooachbuilding establishment, bus tained injuries on December 28, which ter minated fatally on the following day. It appears that on Friday, at 1 p.m., Sheriff was working at the tenoning machine wheel spokes, when, through some unexplained reason, one of the knives got out of position, and coming into contact with the iron face of the machine, the wh.ole apparatus broke to pieces. It had been working at a high rate of speed at the time, and a piece of ironwork thrown from the machine struck Sherriff a severe blow on the stomach. But little was thought of the injury at the time as the man went off to examine the engine. He subsequently walked home, and was attended by Dr. Dawson. Alarming symptoms soon set in, and the unfortunate man expired on December 29. Mr Francis McMahon, formerly of the Nottingham Castle Hotel, died suddenly on Dec. 27 on the verandah of the house next to the hotel. It appears that he had been to Partington's mill, Symonds-street, for a quantity of fowl feed. On returning, he felt pains in his body. Subsequently he was found dead on tho verandah. Mrs Mc- Mahon sent for Dr. Tennent, and that gen tleman attended and pronounced life ex tinct. Deceased had been suffering from heart disease, which, it is believed, was the immediate cause of death. An inquest on the body of deceased was commenced on Dec. 28 at 3 o'clock at tho Nottingham Castle Hotel, before Dr. Philson and a jury. The evidence of Mrs McMahon, Mr Gallagher, Drs. Kenderdiue and Tonnont, haviug been taken, the jury returned a ver dict in accordance with the medical evi donco, " Death from rupture of the aorta."

An inquest was held on the 15th Decem ber on tho body of a young woman named Alice Woolley, aged nineteen, who was found dead in her bed at her employer's residence. The medical evi dence went to show-jthat there were no signs of violence present, and on carefully examining the whole of tho internal organs they wero found to bo in a perfect state of health. Tho brain was also healthy. No pathological change whatever was observed sufficient to account for death. The con tents of the stomach had not been analysed, but had been carefully secured, and handed over to the police for that purpose if neces sary. There was a slight discolouration about the hands and face. Tho inquest was adjourned to allow of an analysis being made of tho contents of the stomach. At the adjourned inquest an ofJen verdict was returned. The medical evidence given showed that all the organs were healthy, and in an analysis of the contents of the stomach no trace of either mineral or vege table poison was discovered.

A woman named Margaret Gordon, who resided with her husband, John Gordon, a carter, in a house in Albert-street, near the Shamrock Hotel, was found dead in bed at five o'clock on December 24 by a neighbour. During yesterday she was suf fering severely from the effects of a course of excessive drinking. Mr and Mrs Lett accordingly sat up with her until ten o'clock, and another woman whoiires hard by continued the vigil until one a.m. There were some marks of violence upon the body, but Dr. Dawson, who was called in, considered that they had all been re ceived through falls except a discolouration of the arm, which was not recent. His opinion was that death resulted from apo plexy, superinduced by hard drinking. It may be remembered that the deceased was proseoutrix, in Oct, 1881, in the rape case against Lawrence Hayes, of Hamilton, who got five years, but who afterwards had his sentence commuted. In the following year her .husband got two months for assaulting her with a DM of iron,

When at the island of Butaritari.Captaiu Robinson, of the Throe Cheer?, which ar rived here on December 27 was informed that a Chinaman culled Ec Kum had been found dead in his house, with a long knife through his body, A white trader is accused of tho ciime.

Jamos Norris died suddenly on Dec. 2C on the Reclamation Works, Calliope Point, North Shore. Deceased was 40 years of age, and dropped dead at his work. Medi cal aid was called, but was unavailing in saving life. Deceased was a steady, Bober man, and had enjoyed good health. His death is attributed to heart disease.

A determined attempt to commit suicide was made on December 13th by a young married woman named Mary Ann Wilson. It would appear that Mrs Wilson came from Dunedin with her husband, who is a plasterer, several months ago, and they were living at Mrs Blair's, Abercrombie street. The couple have not lived happily togothev, and as a result of the domestic strife, Mrs Wilson removed tho heads from the contents of three boxes of matches, mixed them with water in an egg cup, nnd swallowed the whole dose, remark ing at the same time that she thought the dose would have settled her in five minutes. Mrs Blair heard her groaning upstairs, and having ascertained tho cause, sent word to tho Police Station, and in tho meantime, with the aid of neighbours, gave tho unfor tunate woman, by wny of emetic, doses of mustard and warm water, but without pro ducing the desired effect. Sergeant Kioly having arrived in a cab; took tho woninn to the Hospital, where antidotes wore adminis tered by Dr. Bond, and sha gradually re covered.

Another narrow escape from drowning in the harbour occurred at an early hour on January 2. About i! o'clock, T. Barron, the waterman, was in tho watermen's house, vyhen he hoard loud cries for help proceeding from tho westward eide of tho pier. He immediately concluded that somebody had fallen overboard, and accord ingly got a boat out and pulled in tho direction indicated with all possible speed. When abreast of the wharf, about half-way down, ho found a man struggling in tho water, where he must have been for about fifteen minutes; and had ho not boon able to swim a little ho must havo been drowned before assistanco could have been rendered. He got the man into the boat and pulled ashore, after which he placed him in the watermen's house. Tlio unfortunate fellow was then in a very exhausted condition, but soon was able to walk homo. Ho is said to belong to the cutter Lizzie, and it is supposed that whilo j going down the wharf with the object of gottingoff to her, he fell over , the side.,. Barron deserves great credit for the manner in which he rescued tho man from drown ing single-handed," and also for tho careful manner in which he looked after him until he was f ally restored to consciousness?;: - ■

FIRES.

Two houses and a shop were destroyed by fire at Lawrence, Otago, on Dee. 14. Property in Christchurch belonging tc Rev. B. T. Dudley, Auckland, was burned down on Deo. 10. Insured for £400. I

A cottage occupied by Mrs Bassithwaito, Christohurch, was destroyed by firo on the 11th December. It was insured for £300 .in the Liverpool, London, and Globe office.

Goods and cash to the value of £400, belonging to a storekeeper named Monorieff, at Wairoa, Ohinemutu, were destroyed by firo on Dec. 10. No insurances.

An inquiry into the burning of Kelly's Old Royal Hotel at Rakaia,' Otago, Ima resulted in a verdict of incendiarism against some persons unknown.

A house owned and occupied by Mr Luther, East Tamaki, was burned down on December 17. The house and furnituro was insured in the National for £200.

Wall's Sandridge Hotel, Sydenham, 21 rooms, was totally destroyed by fire on Dec. 22. Insurances on building £1400 in New Zealand office; furniture, fCOO in Australian Mutual.

The hotel at Wanstead, Napier, was destroyed by firo on January 2, at noon. Insurances : Stock and furniture, £250; building, £500 in the South British. Half of the latter was re-insured in the National.

News has been received of the destruc tion by fire of Mr Finlayson's house of accommodation at Moeangiangi, Napier. The fire occurred through the accidental upsetting of a kerosene' lamp. Insurance, £150 on the house, £100 on the furniture, in the National office. '

The shop and dwelling-houso of Mr Roberts, grocer, Ponsonby Road, was destroyed by firo on December 2S. Tho outbreak was discovered about two o'clock, and the flames had then obtained such a firm hold that nothing could bodoho to save either stock or furniture. Before tho pro gress of the fire could be stayed, Mr Coylo'a houseadjoininghadbeenpartiallydestroyed, while the next house, owned by Mr Bruce Lloyd and occupied' by himself and tho Misses Lloyd, had the side seriously charred and the roof partially burned off. Tho furniture from both houses was removed, but wds considerably damaged during tho process. Nothing is known regarding tho origin of the fire. The following are the insurances: —Roberts: on the shop £200 in the Royal, on the stock £200 in tho Union. He has also £100 in the Union on the fur niture. Mr Coyle's place is completely gutted, and only part of the shell remains. He had the house insured for £100 in the Standard, and the furniture for £50 in .tho same office. Mr Lloyd's is insured for £300 in the National.

A destructive fire occurred early on the morning of Dec. 19, in Syinonds-streoti, and resulted in the destruction of tho shops occupied by Messrs ITothoringham, Baddlor, liyan, hairdresser, Young, plumber, Holloway, chemist, JDcvoy, bootmaker, Halliday, fruiterer.,'the dwellings of Messrs M. de Jongh, Harris, Cavanagh, and Mrs PlumridgOi. Theoutbreak was discovered between midnight find ono o'clock, and the first alarm is said to have been given by Mr Samuel Houston, blacksmith, and Mr G,< D. Bevin, butcher. It appears that th.9 fire originated in the back portion of Mr Fotkeringham's shop, which-was not occupied. This building and the next is divided by a gateway, tho'shop of tho second house being rented by Mr Devoy, bootmaker, while the other portion is occupied as a dwelling house \>y Mr M. de Johgh and family. They were all asleep upstairs' at the time of' the outbreak, but Mrs de Jongh most opportunely awoke, rind finding' the room filled with smoke, aroused her hus band. The adjoining building was then completely enveloped in flames, while tho roof of their own house was on fire. In deed, thedevouring element had mado such progress that it was with tho greatest diffi culty that Mr de Jongh managed to get his children carried out safely, although wrapped in blankets. There was scarcely a soul about at that time, and tho bells had not commenced to ring. There was no possibility of saving any of his household goods, and they were all destroyed. Tho lire Brigade ar rived on tho scene some time afterwards, but tho flames had by that time obtained a firm hold, and tho utmost efforts of tho gallant firemen could do no inoro than confining the fire to the block of buildings mentianed above, which were destroyed. The total damage by tho fire is said to ex ceed £5,000. A considerable portion of the goods and furniture in some of the tene ments was saved.

On Dccembor 20, at about 10 o'clock ■Mi. an outbreak of fire occurred in a building in Hobson-stroot once known as tho Corllon Academy, and although tho night was com paratively calm and the response of the Firo Brigade to the alarm of the bells very prompt the tlamoß completed their work. In fact, they burned too fiercely to bo arrested until tho building had been consumed. Besides this the Brigade could not obtain a full pressure! o£ water, but their efforts wore successful in preventing the extension of tho fire. There was a very large gathering of people, and they watched the blazing mass with the amount oif interest always excited by such spectacles. Iho destroyed editicG was one of tho old memorials of Auckland, and had passed through itvany vicissitudes. Twenty-two yoars ago it was- used as a mcotui(» plucc or church; as well as Sunday-school, by the then congregation of St. James's Presby terian, and since then it has been principally occupied for day school purposos, Mr (J. JJ. Andrews being about the latest pedagogic tenant. His school was termed the Ciirltwa Aoudpiny, and honoe its application to the building also. It was flanked by tho residences of Mr Plumloy (on tho northern side) and Mr llowdcn (on the southern), wliilo partly in front' of it there was a small fancy goods shop, and to the rear a five-roomed rcsidonce, both occupied by Mr Tuifibull. Messrs Plurnley and Howden hud pureffased it about a year ago, and at the time of the fire it was used as a ioinor'a store and workshop by Mr Mallandino in the in terests of tho Auckland limber Company. As to tho origin of tho firo, Mr italkuuUno gives a full explanation. Ho says that he and his assis tants, two men and a *oy, knocked off work nt five o'clock, but that, as he had a pressing job on hand, he returned alone at seven. while stirring some French poHsh in a pot. after nine a'clock, the pot upset, and its contents ignited by a lighted candle falling into it in trying to sb ye a vessel containing live gallons of varnish, it also upset, and the varnish ilarcd up instantly while tho names communicated to the walls with tho utmost rapidity. Mr Bull, couch builder, gave the alarm, and the Fire lirigade and Salvage Corps responded with their customary promptitude The builrling was insured for .£3OO in. tho Northern pJHco, and Mr Mallandino's Block wajs insured in the South British for £300. Mr Tum bull, who is a joiner, is the heaviest loser;' for all his tools, furniture, clothing, aitdi money were destroyed, while tho stock ho had in the small shop, consisting of bazaar goodt. 5b also Uninsured. Mr Plumley's house, whiclv twice took fire, and is slightly damaged on onesido.iß. V with furniture; insured for £760 in the Imperial Company, and Mr Howdcn's house, from which some of the furniture was removooV is inWirea in tho New Zoalafldjui4S*inißl QJ&eßfta'i3gfr>.

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, SATURDAY, , JANUARY 5, 1884.

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