SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

rrrr'ti wiTcn < This Evening, '•'•"' HIGH WATER Vrolm ; rrmv i lmli: ,, vUl SUNSET.-This Kvcninp, fi.ia SUNUISB.—To-mirr-i-.v M.trnlne. A.20- MOON'S AGE.-Now Moon, 19th 0.12 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

T.ASTKVKNINIJ. Thomas Russell, s.b., llolander, from Gisbornc

DEPARTURES.

LAST KVKNINO. Manftpouri, s.h., Lojrdu, for Riiss.'ll Wattaki. 5.3., CMV.frmi, for Whangarei Macgregor, 8.3., Jolmson, for Whangarei Omapcre, 3.5., Allman, for Napier

IMPORTS.

*■ Per Waikuio-IS kegs wrot spikes. IK eases ■*«alvanised corrugated Iron, V) casks sheet zinc, lowlc perforated she< t zinc, 2SI bundles hoop icon, 1011 packages register grates, 13j boxes cokiland charcoal tin plates, ISO drums boiled an I 1-...W linseal oil, 1) barrels lioilcd and raw linked oil, h) drums m-utsfoot oil, ;> barrels patent JoltMlllcil oil lußchiiic oil, ,W drums do, 3 barrel:< lubricating oil, 3 Ciis<:n champion mower fittings. ].", rases Randall harrow.-), fi rases birrow tei'd drill, 72 bundles Parkess spndes and f;>: ka, 7 easts Howard's horte rakes, Imrrow.i, ploughs, &c.; 22 casea llornsbys ploughs, paragon mowers. &c.; 8 packages sausage machines, I! cases blind furniture, 11 eases lump chimneys, 2 hogi-heads enamelled holloware, 3 hogsheads enamelled preserving pain. &i".; 2 cii3C3 chemical ap]>aratus, 1 dome top cylinder boiler. I oases enamelled sanitary sinks', 2 case' bnifsware, 1 case door springs, 1 case; spring balances, 1 case garden syringes, 1 eisk Wcnon's putent pulley blocks, 5 < cues washing machiiu'P. .'! cases dinner unit cow bells, J case laths, 5 centre Ift. gap bod, 1 easo asbestos rings, G cases steel travelling tm.ka, 1 chemical sifting machine, 2 cuse.-i linaniitli'H machines, 3 casks copper soja machines, 1 case hair brooms, (i cuscs general hardware, 1 caso tw.bim-t cramps, 1 case tool cliisels, 1 vase bedsore ws, 2 cases copper Boilers, 1 ense steelyards, 1 ctisc Bissel'a lloorcrarups, 1 oaae rotury knife cleaners, 1 cusc chair nails, 2 ca^cs copying presses. 1 case rat traps, 1 case canvas hofo, 3 casks hinges, hooka, and bartdg, IK truck wheels, 1 cask ventilators, 2 casks electro - plate. 2 casea engineers hammer?, Mat'iicßon'a planes, 3 bales cotton and hemp fish lines, C cases fancy goods, 2 discs china mortii'o furniture. 2 cases scythe.i, 1 enso cut lory, 2 casks hack horse shoes. 1 cask harness. 1 caso mouaa trans, 2 casks It.P. rimloeks, lcask chosllocks, 1 cajk artificers tools, lcask cutlery. 1 case garden rakes. 1 caae sash fasteners, 4 cases spollbrth braces ltases wrenches, 1 case carpenter's pencils, o cases fruit jars, 1 balo cut lacins:, 3 canes carriage bolts, 6 cases btoro trucks, 0 casus barrow seed drills. 30 cases Anierioou sundries. Ironmongery, etc., 4 cases Bhig chandlery, 4 cases sporting powder.—T. anil S. Morrln und Co. (Limiti-d). Per Waikato, from London : 1 patent paragon mowers. 1 case llttings, 12 HornsbyVplonghi, 1 cask ploas?hahares, 2 casks charcoal and tailors' irons, G weighing machines. 2 cases sack tacks, 1 caso steelyards, 2 casks counter Bcalea, 1 case brace bit*, 1 case augirrs, 1 caso L. Honmedin's angnra. 1 ca3e socket slashers, 1 caao grubbing mattocks. 1 caso pickaxes, 1 cask brass candle sticks, 2 casks brass ware, a casks copper rurnaso pans, 1 cask gridirons, 1 caso copper bars, 1 cask lire shavcls, JO kegs rail doga, 70 kegs do.-k spikes, 20 casks s'aeet zinc. 1 caso Hooklmm's sash lino, 2 cases carriage belts and nuts, 1 cask ilont nails, 1 cask rivets, 25 cases galvanised naila, 9 casos milk pans. 1 balo plough lilies. 1 caso twino. 2 cases chalk packing, 2 cakes packing, 2 ra-cs asbestos packing, 1 bale seaming t*ino, 1 balu roping twine. 1 bal» (lax sash lino, 3 casea rncket material, 2 casi;s scythes, 2 cases tools. 8 nO'jßliCP.dj h(il:owaro, 10 caae.i low level platform hinders, 4 ca=ea ehafTcutters and MUnts. I caso villa lawn mowers, 2 cas^s coniliu oil mower and reaper. I.SSO rash weights, 5 casea portable forgis, 1 caso water lire Irons, \3i bimdlts galvanbcd buckets, SO inKots bkek tin. 1 easo-plato closhes. 1 bal.'B brown pap.-r, f>o kegs anti-friction grease. C3O c.-'M iron j.ijies. 73 c-ast tees, branohes, bendß, knoo.s. thimbles. etc., IS ba'l hydrants with ii:?-, :i! s niiio vilvei, 3casks horseshoes, 1 cask blacksmiths' tongs, etc., 2 casossplitting wedges, 1 cask maul rings. 1 caak smiths' hammers and potato forks, 2 casks rim locks. 2 cases cheeso vrespc.?, I cfuocirc-ularsuwsandbandsawa. lease closest, hard, and compass saws, 21 casks coil chain, 1 ca c bluo wire clout naila, 7 casea tinned tiicce, 5 casoj assorted fittings for reaper and binder, ft cases wo:id screws, 1 ease brass screw?, lease handrail screws, 1 oaso tyo bolts, cotter pins,Sokei,'sKwbanknails,lcask-3tableandpolieo hunpp, leas!; cash boxes, 1 combined circular and bund win in.; luachincs, 1 patent morticing machine compliXo with boring apparatus, 1 cask baking nans and p.itty pans. 1 cask stove kettles, milk skiinnidiv, wtfrhstntuis, elb., i caak wash ntand:>,jii!;p. !»mi!,s. anil candlesticks. G casks . titrT[iuti>, onnillustieks. tolibe pols. 010., SCO buu iilnj i.io ton:)) feneiiin wire, 12 ko«fl Walker's hois-; nuls. 18,793 foot Tnlvaninp.il lulics. 2 casks wilvanNcil fluliipj-furilo., in Smith mill Well stood r,ujKiß. It j.ackaKca fittings for do., 4 WimHi-h kite-lien s-inli.i, ?x el nu tin: cnttago r.inrf.M, 1 caao pnckct-'knivi's, scissors, and cork sn.'ows 1 rase Illi-s. 1 caa■• i:ro.'S cut Haws, 1 caak adze?, piano iron?, etc, :tifl foga blaatint?,pow der.-K. Porter an.i Co.

Inivai:i«(;o.wt\vi*k- Atalanta, from Tairua. with 2,i,fl!ifitC timlinr; Mni<;nret f'asey, from Tupit, with 100.000 shimj'es: Vio!ut, from ''•liiuncs, wiih 17tt'0ft (iiiilior; Zi!!ah, from T Mines. witii'_'O.WOrttlmbor; G'liojt, from Wha ir.japoiia, wiiii 21,000 ft timber.

OtiTWAura Coastwise.— Lazoon, for Rangl toto: Atalantif, for Tairua; Margaret Casey, for Tanuii..

There was no sign of the s.s. Clansman from Hobart up to a late lunur thi3 afternoon.

The R.!, Doric, from London for Wellington and other New Zealand yortfl, called at Hobart on Sunday, at 9 a.m., and sailed again at li p.m. same day. She reported ''all well."

The s.s Thomas Itu=sell arrived from Xapier and Gisbornn lata last oVetting with a cargo 01 sliacp, etc. Passenger :—Mr Kempthorn*}.

Tho s.s. Oaiap.ero with Chiarini's circus, left for Napier early this morning. She is to remain there for four days, and then tako tho circus on to Lyttelton.

Tho sOiip^Elilerslio left Oiniaru for London yesterday, with 23,:i05 carcases frozen mutton and a quantity o£ wool, tallow, wheat, etc, tho total value being over £30,000.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Dcmcjl-is, 8.5., Norbury, from Waitara Lulla Rookli, 8.5., Campboll, from Waitaia

DEPARTURE. Rotorua, 6.5., Anderson, for tho South

Tho steamers Douglas and Lalla Rookh arrived fro:n Waitara yesterday, the former with 20 head of cattle and 100 sheep, and tho latter wi*,h 20 head ot CAtele.

Tho Union Go.a 3.3. Rotorua left for Southern ports at 1 o'clock this morniuK with 5) bags Votatooa, 13 Backs oystors, 8 sacks coooanuts, ti casea pinea. 213 eases oranges. CO boxes tea, 17 cases chairs, ICO packages, and the following pabscngiis:—

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Svdnky, this day. — Arrived, on Monday evening. Woiroiap", from Auckland. Kpssell, this' day.—Arrived: Manapouri, from Auckland; 5 a.m. WiiAKaARKi, this day.—Arrived: Waitaki and Ma;grcgor, from Auckland, 7 a m.

TELEGRAMS.

Te Auoila, this day.—At the Warden's Court yesterday before H. Kenrick, Esq., in tho action J. F. Cocks v. John Abbott for breach of agreement ro mining shares (Mr J. A. Miller for plaintiff and H. 11. Lusk for defendant), the magistrate ruled there w«3 no jurisdiction in this court. A petition from miners and other residents of Waiorongomai praying the Warden to sanction a lease of the tramway if so requested by the Coiinty Council, has been presented to the R.M. by Mr Buttle. To-day tin inquiry was hold by the Warden at the request of tho petitioners re the election of Denis Murphy to the County Council. The Court ruled that no vacancy had occurred on September 9th. Ho told the County Clerk that ha had no right to state that air Cooper's election was invalid, not having received any such instructions from the Magistrate. The vacancy, in reality, dated back to Mr Whitaker's resignation, and therefore the election of Mr°Murphy was void. Tho Magistrate again stated that ho considered Mr Cooper a member of the Council. Dangerous Early Closing; Tactics. Wellington, thi3 day.—Tho Chairman of the Early Closing Association has been lined Is and coats tor holdinga demonstra tion in front of a non-closing draper's shop. Volunteer Frize-Money. Mr Stevens, Secretary of the Kifle Asso ciation, received the followi»g telegram from Dunedin this morning from one ol tho lead ing rifle shots there■:—" Volunteers have not been consulted re division of Govern ment grant. The shool ing-men are opposed ta the action taken in Dunedin."

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails will Close as ujtobk i— ■ This Day. Fop Gisborne and Southern ports, per Southern Cross, ot 4 p.m. ■ For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.80 p.m. Thuksday, October I6th. For WaUara, etc.. per Lalla Eookh, at 7.40 a.m. For Waiwera, Te Kapa, Crai&rieburn, and Warkworth. etc., perßoae Casey, at 10 a.m.' Per Manapouri, as follow: For Giabomo, Napier, Southern Ports, Australian Oolonieß, and TXnited Kintrdoin via Suez, Brindlßl, and Naples (per Orient stoamer), for letters. &0., specially so pre paid and addressed, at 11 a.m. For Monoy Orders, Registered totters and Nowspapors, 10 a.m. Late Letters till 11.20 a.m. Mall will be dne in London on Tuesday, the 9th i December. For Thames, per Rotoraaliana. at 10.30 a.m. 2"or Tauranga, Ohinerautu, and Opotiki, per Wellington, at 5 p.m. Tor "Whftiangi, Uppor MUI, and Tairua, por ltuwena, at 5 p.m. . Friday, 17th inst; ForCo-wes ana Corom*ndel, per Coromandol, at : 1,30 p.m. ; Thursday, 23th mat WairaraPß, aj U a.m. Mxp ec fed length of t>assago> ** clays. o , . t f ; n . For Australian Colonies, per s.b. Zoalandia-Bjn . mediately aftor.horarrival from Honolulu ,8. B. 8188, Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-offlo* Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

Ootoukr 15, im. Abbott's Opera House—" Under tho Oaalisht, 8 p.m.

Choral Hall—Conversazione of Now Zealand Art students' Association, 7 p.m.

RomuoraHall—Exhibition of Limelight Views, 7 p.m.

New Zealandar.d Auckland Itllli: Association, 7.;i0 p.m. V.M.C-A. Rooms-Kvungelistio Borvlco, i'.oO p.m.

Notices to Correspondents.

Constant Reader.—A boy does not come o{ age iii New Zealand until he if; 21. Contract) made during his minority arc not binding: on him after that time, unless he should renew them, which he may of course do. Anxious PauENT.—A false declaration of age mado for the purpose of obtaining a marriage without the parents' consent is a punishablo offence.

Births.

UOUUIiAS.—On the 11th Oetobor, at her resi dence, Ireland-street, Ponsonby, the wife of Kredk. \V. A. Douglas of a daughter.

Marriages.

fjEK—TYK.—On October 13. at the residence of W. Wurmall, Esq., Lako Takapuna, Leonard, oldest son of \V. Lice, Of Mercury Hay, to Kate, daughter of the late D. 'lye, of Auckland.

Deaths.

CLARKE.-On October 11, 18S1, at her grand motlier's residence, Aloxandra-Htreet, Koae ICthel, second daughter of Mary und John Clarke, of Albert-street; aged 4 years and 1 month.

The funeral will leave Mrs Joseph Clarke's residenoe, Alexandra street.lo-morrowCrhurs dayi, at 4 p.m. Friends will please accept this intimaiion.

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

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 1884.

For the ouustj that latks osaletanoa, For tlio wrong that ooods resiataooo, Ifor the future In the distance, And the geod that we can do.

The railway accident to-day, which ended without fatal disaster through a marvellous conjunction of favourable circumstances, and the pluck of the engineer and fireman of the One hunga train, is to form the subject of an official inquiry. We wish, there fore, to avoid either anticipating or prejudicing the verdict, but the lives of people are so constantly entrusted to tho care of the men having charge of trains that public opinion will insist upon the inquiry being open and search ing. This is too serious an affair to be hushed up in the private office of the railway manager. The lives of thousands of people are annually risked in full faith that the safeguards are so perfect as to render virtually impossible such accidents as the one which to-day might have hurried fifty people into eternity, orleft them crushed, wounded, and permanently maimed. And yet we find that an occurrence tri vial in itself, and of a kind which is liable to happen any time, and which probably does happen in shunting very often, may set in motion forces potent with calamity. We do not wish to imply that there- has been any culpable negligence in the present instance, but we do say tfcat the circumstances are of a character de manding the strictest investigation. One of the most stringentof the general tiaflic , regulations stipulates that an engine shall never, under any circumstances, be left in charge o( one man. The fireman is supposed to be thoroughly qualified to perform the engineer's duty in case of emergency. The spirit of this regulation seems to be that the engine shall never be unattended or out of control. Is this regulation a dead letter in practice., or is it opera tive ? and if so, why was the rule in sufficient to prevent the despatch of the shunting engine, like a steam battering ram, on a wrecking expedition? These are questions which must be thoroughly sifted.

A more reassuring phase of the affair is the courageous conduct of the men in charge of tha Onehunga train. It needs no ordinary nerve for a man to stand his ground on a locomotive and meet an engine coming careering towards him at unknown speed on a single track in a tunnel. With death staring them in the face, the driver, the fireman, and the guard of the Onehunga train stuck to the post of duty, and by their presence of mind in shutting off steam, putting down the brakes, and calming the passengers, saved the train and the lives of the people on_ board. These services should not go unrewarded. Men are tried by great emergencies, and all these men have passed the fires with honour. The merit of their behaviour is liable to be undervalued because the occurrence has not, like so many rail way disasters, been attended with those horrible consequences which thrill men's hearts and rivet the public mind. But it must not be forgotten that the situation had in it every element of a frightful tragedy, and it was only because the officers in charge of the Onehunga train — Robwtson, the engineer ; Sargeant, the fireman, .and Neal, the guard—knew their work and were un flinching in performing it, that the disaster was prevented. We cannot speak too highly of their conduct. It has neutralised the terrors which the accident would have exercised on the minds of timid travellers, and it has redeemed the employees as a body from suspicion of carelessness or in competence. If the result of the in quiry should be to fasten blame upon any of the employees, we also hope that it will not fail to recommend liberal reward where it has been earned by conspicuously meritorious conduct.

New Zealand and the Inventions Exhibition.

We learn from papers by the Brindisi mail that the Exhibition at South Kensington, London, next summer, will not, as was at first hinted, bo "Forestry," but "Musical Instruments and tke Inventions of the Last Ten Years." Tho Guarantee Fund of £50,000 was subscribed in the course of twelve hours, and as the Prince ol \yales, the Duke of Buckingham, Sir .Cunliffe Owen, and other leading lights aro on, the Working Committee, and have already laid important plans, there seems every prospect of tho "inventions Exhibi tion "(as it will probably bo called) equal ling, even £f it does not surpass, in interest the "Fisheries-" and the " Healtheries." If space on behalf of the colony of New Zea land is applied for at once, we shall have plenty of time to get things into training, • and ought surely to bo able to fill a small court with interesting exhibits. The best plan would be to have a selection committee appointed by the Government. This com mittee would invite exhibits, and under take the transit to London and general ar rangements there of the " inventions ". and " musical instruments" selected. 'New Zealand has not been standing still during the last ten years, and patentees .wil', we imagine, readily come forward with their wonders directly they learn there is to .be a special court for novelties from this part of the world. The terms "musical instruments " and " inventions " offer 3uch wide scope to exhibitors that it would amount to almost a disgrace if there was not a faiily interesting New Zealand- Court.

Bishop Cowie has consented to open the Art Students' Association Exhibition in tho Choral Hall this evening. After the open ;ing ceremony, Mr Watkins, President, will igive an address.

During the gale yesterday, the upper •portion 'of the new works now in course of ,orection lor. the Sulphuric Acid Company at Fisher and Co.'s, Otahuhu, was blown down. The extent of tlie damage is as yet unknown. ■•..■•'

The following resolution was moved by Mr IX H. MoKen/.ie at tho meeting ot tho Harbour Board yesterday afternoon: "That an arbitration ciauso bo inserted in the con ditions and specifications for tho construc tion of Calliope Dock, to provide i'or_ any dispute that may arise between tho engineer and the contractor for tho work, and also that tho clause providing for the test, strength of cement as 450 bo altered to MOO, the lat ter being tho Government requirements." After gome discussion the last clause of the resolution was withdrawn. Despite this amendment, the general opinion was Iliac the insertion of the proposed clause in the Dock contract at tho eleventh hour was highly undesirable, and upon the resolu tion being pressed to a division, it was thrown out.

The " Thames Star" of Monday had the following:—Messrs Price Bros, havo just completed, to tho order of Mr H. Biott, and for use in the AtJCKtANB STAR Office, an inverted high pressure stoam engino of 15 nominal h.p. It is of the marine type in all its details, and is turned out in tho linislud manner which characterises all this film's work. The cylinder is 12 inches in diame ter, with 18in. stroke, and the lly-wheel has a diameter of Tft. Tho ongiuo will bo shipped either to-morrow or Wednesday, and will bo erected under tho supervision of Mr Patterson, one of the firm's employeos.

Thre« Auckland inventors' applications for letters patent are notified in the "Gazette" of tho 9th lust. An important discovery is that of Dr. Aickin, of I'on.-onby Road, who seeks protection for an insecticide and plant vermin oxtormiuator, which, it is claimed, will destroy all the tribe of aphi des. The others aro \V. i\ Jones forpiano forto hopper roller and circular hammer, which we noticed recently ; and H. J. Tur ner, Devonport, for " Excelsia hiumorrhoid support."

Tho Auckland Timber Company have erected a massive brick vail through (ho centre of tho mill, which will prove an effectual barrier to tho spread of any lire that might tako placo. This, together with tho extensive storage space in tho brick warehouses, will onablo tho Company to keop an enormous supply of made goods and material, without incurring the risk usually attendant on industries of this kind. Some idea of tho massive character of this wall may be obtained from the fact that in ad dition to an immense quantity of stone and concreto used in building tho lower portion, a quarter of a million of bricks were re quirod for its construction. Itn total length is 185 foot, and its height 79 foot from tho bod rock.

Heighton and Co. writo as follows regard ing tho letter in laetcvoning'sSTAK as to their firm having takon Ifts from an applicant for employment: —"This, wo prosumo, must, bo a Jos, Corlott. It is true that Carlett paid tho sum of 10a as our commission for a situation ac station-hand ; ho signed our book as ongaged, having had an interview with our client, tho omployor, in our office ; but aftorwards importinontly refused to go, informing tho employer that thoy would not suit each othor. Wo do not wish servants of abovo description to apply for employment, as they invariably cause dis satisfaction and annoyanoo."

Captain Tozor, late master of the steamer Ringai'ooma, is applying for tho post of harbour-master and master of tho tug nt Bluff.

At Napier R.M. Court yesterday, a Mr Cohen who sued for recovery of fees for valuation mado by him, was nonsuited be cause tho valuntion was not on stamped papor. It should bo remembered that the Act Is imperative on this 2>oint.

Tho monthly meeting of tho Gospel Temperance Mission Blue Kibbon Army was hold on Monday last in (.he Temperance Hall, Albert-street, MrJ. Newman providing in tho absonco of tho President (Rev, S. Macfarlauo) inconscquonco of bereavement. Tho Chairman stated that before tho busi ness was proceeded with they should manifest thoir sympathy with tho I'remdoiit in tho great loss ho had sustained by tho death of his wife, and also tho lo.sh to the community of a most enorgotie and ardent worker in tho cause of temperance. A resolution was uimnim uialy passed to that oll'oot, An interesting conversation toolc place roapoct ing tho tiiiancoa. In coiipoqueuco-ot the oxpoeted visit of Mr (Mover, tho Committee had committed themselves to an increase of expenditure, and although soverttl gentle men had como forward in a very liberal mannor with special donations to meet tho deficiency, still tho balance was on the wrong sido. A hopo was expressed that further subscriptions would bo forthcoming to help on tho pood work in which the Society is engaged.

Mr Honry England and Co.'h ton report, dated Foochow, 21stf August, says: —"Up to about tho 11th instant tho Congou market continued fairly quiet, with weaken ing price*, tho daily business averaging a little over 4,000 half-chests, but since that dato there has been much more active buying, and tho daily settlements havo averaged well over 9,500 half-chests, i'ho natural consequence of this increased busi ness is a riso in prices, all teas aro firmer, and common grades show a vise of three quarters to one tael per pecul from t tho lowost point. Tho heavy buying is confined to a few houses, and we would hardly have thought thoy could advanco their buying rates, in view of tho stato of both the Homo and colenial markets, and can only proiiimo thoy look upon war between France and China a.-i certain. Tho export *o Australia is being hurried forward. Tho Woosmig will take about 1,500,0001b5., bringing tho total up to over 14 millions, from here, in addition to about half-a-million pounds Canton and Macao teas shipped from tho South. Tho war question remains in stntu quo.

Tho following letters, additional to those recorded in our last issue, woro road at the Harbour Board meeting yesterday afternoon and disposed of: — From City Council, ro convoyanco of land in Boaili Road : Re ceived. From Waitemata Rowing Club, petitioning for sito for a boaUlied : Referred to Works and Tariffs Com mittee, Harbour • master to report. From F. D. Fenton, suggesting tho ad visability of erecting a place of protection for pleasure boats alongside enclosure near Wynyard Pier: Koferred to Works and Tariffs Committee, Harbour-mn9tor to report. From J. J. O'Brien, asking for a compensation allowance of £85 In respect of non-delivery of piles for tho Devonport Wharf contract: Declined in accordance with Engineer's report. From F. J. Worker, asking Board to buy 20 totara piles which he had prepared for thorn : Purchase of piles authorised. From Richard Shannon, requesting permission to erect a book-stall on Queen-street Wharf: Declined. The report of the Finance Committee was adopted.

At the meeting of tho Harbour Board yesterday afternoon, the following logal opinion was received from Messrs Russell and Campbell as to the Board's liability in respect of tho landslip in Sehvyn Terrace : —" We havo perused tho petition of tlie owners of land on Selwyn Torrace, and havo now the honour to stato to tho Board that tho Board is not compilable to build a re taining wall, even admitting that tlio opera tions carried out by tho Board wero tho eauso of the slip. The Board, however, would bo liable in damages to owners of property who have sustained injury through tho operations of the Board. Wo are unablo to give any information as to' whothor tho damages, if any, recoverable would bo greater or less than tho cost of the wall." Mr Winks confessediiis inability to gather the meaning of thia opinion, and defied any othor member of the Board to do so. Tho Chairman (Mr Aickin) said .that it was a characteristic lawyer's letter. The front door had been closed, but tho back door conveniently left open. Mr Tho*. Morrin hold tho opinion that tho Board should build tho retaining wall and do the tilling in. On his motion, therefore, it was agreed to instruct the Engineer to prepare plans and specifications for the work.

Last ovoniug a Very large number of Salvationists and sympathising friends eat down to tea at Otahuhu. Tho llev. Mr Maekay presided in the absence of " Cap tain" Burfoot, who did not arrivo in titno for the opening service. About CO friends from Auckland arrived in brakes and 'busses, and were soon followed by the " elite " of the Auckland Skeloton Brigade, who attempted to make tilings lively by ways "pleasant to hardened hearts." "Captain" Burfoot called upon tlio Otahulm "Crusaders" to "testify," which they did by relating what the Lord had done, by bringing them out of tho snares of the devil. Two brothers told how happy they were sinoo thoy joined the " Army,1' whereupon " Captain " Burfoot proudly introduced them, not as Siamese, but as the "Hallelujah Twins." A friendly feeling was evinced to the Army by members of other churches, and a general respect is given to the work, as many have been reclaimed in Otahuhu. The proceeds of tho meeting are for the now Barracks, a nice little place well lighted a\id justsuitedtotheßrigade, which meets within its walls. A gentleman in blue, who was sent out to render assistance to the village constable, seemed to have driven tho fear of the law into the hearts of the skoloton "crew, "and very little interruption took place. On the. .whole, the meeting was a fvery .successful one, and respectful in a marked degree. — [Correspondent], '

To thfi Editor: Sir.-r-Mv Pawcett, t' c English Postmaster-Gem ral, having decided to forward our mails partly by Orient or P. and O. strainers, which tho Government of this colony is endeavouring to obviate by doubling the postage via Australia, I would suggest that, for the purpose of making this counter move as widely as possible, and to prevent, people here from having to pay a sixponny tine, it, would bo a j^ood plan if envelope.l; wore printed on l.ho back with such a notice as I append, such en velopes to be used only lor English corres pondence as a notieo to correspondents : — "Address New Zealand letters via San Francisco or by direct steamers, and not via Melbourne or Suez."—l am, &c, N.Z.

J ud ,'c Fentonhasevidentlynotbeon struck with tiie übiquity of the Auckland " bobby." In a letter to the Harbour Board yesterday, wherein ho had occasion to refor to that portion of Her Majesty's subjects known as tho larrikins, ho sarcastically remarked that " as tho Board is aware, policemen aro only to be mot with in Qncon-ntrcut and on tho whurf." In tho words of tho nif.gor stump orator, " Then why do wo wonder at crimo '!"

Kcv. ,1. S. Hill delivered nn address to young men last evening at the Wollesluy street Institution, on tho words " While ho lingered " (Genesis, c. 1!), v. 10). Tho address was earnest in tone and character, urging young men not to linger as Lot lingered," but to como boldly forwerd as men and Christians in tho work of their master. Thcro was a fair attendance, and Mr Hill's address was attentively received.

In the cricket match Zingui i First Elovcn v. Franklin the match was drawn, Franklin scoring (i' 2 and Zingari ."iT for eight wickets.

The parishioners of All Saints' Church, Ponsonby, havo arranged for a tea meeting and social gathering (this evening), to cc-le brato the anniversary of tho incumbent's induction. The following ladies will preside at tho tables :—Mesdnmes Colder, Board man, Dacre, Evans, Gregory, Henderson, Holder, Quick, Upton, the Mis.ses lluglio=>, Jakins, Loighton, assisted by numorous young friends. Tea will bo reudy at half past six, in tho school-room, after which an adjournment will bo made to the Oddfellows Hall, where tho wt of tho evening will be pleasantly passed. Several choice soloctioiiH of music, recitations, &c, will be rendered.

The musical and literary entertainment in aid of tho funds of tho National Cricket Club took placo'in the Pitt-street Wesloyan Sunday-school last evening. In tho absence of Mr Thos. Huddlo, owing to pressuro of business, Mr R. Arthur kindly filled the chair, and opened the entertainment with an encouraging and improssivo speech. The following programme was fairly repre sented : — I'ianoforto solo, " Chaueon a Boiro," Mr A. Wiseman; song, lady amateur ; instrumental trio, Mrs J. Rosser and Messrs Kllyctt; song, "Homo of My Heart " (by request), Mr Jennings ; recita tion, "The Categorical Courtship," Mr T. Clarko ; song, "Tho Queen of the Spring,'' Mm Chudwiek; harp solo, " Napoleon's March Across tho Alps," Mr A. llandloy ; duot, "Excelsior," Messrs J. Ilanna and E. Clayton ; recitation, Missß, Froudo; piano forto duet, "LaHarpo Eoliennc," Miss Reid and Mr \V. Shorland ; song, " Tho Village Blacksmith," Mr Worrall; recitation, "A Woman of Mind," Mr A. Rosser ; iuot, " Where Shall Wo Wander, Sister Dear'(" Misses Marlbrook ; ballud, "For I.ovo Alone," Mr J. Hanna ; pianoforte duet, "Tho Canary Quadrilles, Misses Craig ; song, " Eileen Alanah," Mr Francis ; harp solo, " Dream Faces," Mr A. Handley ; song, Mr Jonnings—concluding with "(iod Savo tho Queen.'1

Tho fourth anniversary of tho Ark of Eden Lodge was oelebrated hist night by a tea-party and conceit, in tho now Eden Hall. About two hundred persons partook of tea, prepared by tho ladies. The hull was nicely decorated for tho occasion with spring Sowers, evergreens, and lings ; while over tho platform, in large letters, appeared the word " Wolcomo.' Tho hall, we understand, w.is formerly used as a syna gogue, but latterly it has been restored for the use of societies and public bodies. Wo would point out, however, to the proprietor tlio nooos.-ity of a lamp over tho doorway mid a handrail by the ruggod steps to the hull. Tho conceit was opened by tho sing ing nt an ode. Tho Ruv. T. MeKouzio Fruser, M.A., occupied Iho clmir, and delivered an excellent speech on " What a Man (iaius by Total Abstinence." The address was unqucliunably oiio of the best to which wo have listened in connection with tho totnper auco movement. It was forcible, argu mentative, and convincing. A number of well-selected readings onii recitations were givon by Messrs Robertson, Stainton, Walker, Canick, and others. Among these especially noticeable wei c " Scotch Words " (L'jighton), " Tlio Front Gate," and the

" Villago Queen." Mr Mcnzies sang a Scotch song in admirablo style, with an explanatory notico, " l>o Kind to Your Granny." Tho Other ehoieo things of tho evening woro tho pianoforte duets,by the Miuses Allies and Moan!, woll-roiulored and justly applauded. Mr Konyon on the " Bolls " was a perfect performance, and gave much pleasure. Tho concert closed with a gonoral voto of thanks and John Bull's popular ant hum.

Quite a new feature in land sales has been introduced by tho Glendalo Land and Colonisation Company, of Georgo and Bond-streets, Sydney, whose advertisement appears in another column, Glendale is n now township in Queensland, situated close to Lagnna Bay, and amid a rich mineral and agricultural country. In order to btiiiiu'ato settlement the Company who own tho land propose giving away free each nlternato allotment. Tlio Company expect to profit largely by this liberal policy, bs tlioy will hold tho remaining allotments at prices varying from £5 to £100, according to situation. The freo distribution i? open only for-1") days from now, and applicants for lots must forward IS^ to cover co^t of conveyance and other expenses, whon clear titlo deeds will bo handed to them. Tlio Hcheino is a bold ono, for purchasers are under no obligation to settle in tho town, but may sell tho land immediately if they choose ; but doubtless tho ofliccrs of tho Company. havo carefully calculated the prospects of success, and are fully satisfied with them.

It is not' generally known that less than a fourth of tho whole of tho members of all tho Volunteer corps aro marksmen. Tho remaining three-fourths have hitherto re mained in perfect ignoranco of tho theory of muskotry or its practical application. An attempt is now being made in Auck land to impart a knowledge of tho theory and practice of these most important parts of a soldier's requirements. If the reduc tion of tho Constabulary goes on, wo shall havo no other defenders ; therefore they will require to bo eilicient. What that in part moans, may be inferred from some words the Instructor, at the last meoting in tho Drill-shod, made use of, viz., "Perfection in drill alono can only enable tlie soldier's being placed in the best situation for using his rifle with effect. Tho soldier who cannot do so, or shoot well, is a useless encum brance ton battallion." Wearo informed that t'lo neglect of this part of a rifleman's edu cation proceeds from the dtfliculty of carry ing out the Imperial system,^thero being no school of musketry like that of Hythe, nor can our Volunteers afford tho timo required by that system. Henco it follows that somo morefeasiblo system is required for imparting tho neceßsary knowledge in a shorter time. Tho instruction given at tho parade referred to is an effort in that direction, the numerous lessons of tho Imperial system being con densed into ono intelligablo explanation, and but ono attendance is required in place of several. Many of our few present marks men shoot mechanically, and their skill at tho targets would bo of littlo worth in tho Hold itself at long distances. Wo thcroforo hope tho efforts being made by all tho members of the City Guards to acquire a knowledge and akill in tho n.«o of their wonpons, will bo attended with ruccoss, and that other corps will movo in tho (same direction. .

FLIES AND BUGS; tail., i,,;«i-, ,-. ■, i,...:■ ial.'." ' ' ' ' ■

Ki'iiilitluiriie, l'n.iuci- & On.. Ajniila. .liiVklaiul

We aro requested to direct attention to nine building itllotiiK-nln tor lease for "0 jeiira b? auction, by Mr 0. W. liinney, on Friday, tlio ,'iisl. mat., nl noon, at his sale-rooms. Fort-street. Thona allotments front Ponsonby Road and Hopntoun-sireot. closo toils junction with Pen son by Road a-.icl tßa tram lines. Hppotouii-street isnow jnstcdmplctcd astoformiition,.to. Thcso allotments are delightfully situated, with large depths abutting on lo tho West m Park.

Concrete paths and yards ensure perfect drainage and banish mud, (lust and weeds. Tho cost is small, tho comfort great. Concrete build ings, foundations, retaining aud garden walls, tanks, etc , aro cheap. Kstimntes and circulars explaining treatment supplied frca to ■ those usini? our linie: references given to concrete workers. On sale, hydraulic and other lime--. brick?, sand, cement, runes, etc. All JMaliuranpi li.nraiirenotnliko. Oflioe to let.—Joliu Wilsou and Co., 75, Queen-street —[Advt.] Ex "Waihora" and " Wairarapa."—Sew ing Machines to hand.—D. 8. Chambers,

Dr. C. H. Huxtable has removed to Wol lesley-street East, two floors from Symonds street. Sco advertisement in another column.

The moat Beautiful Ornamental Fire Screei)9 ever imported to this City are to be Boon atGarlickfe Cranwell's Furnishing Warehouse. A largo assortment justopenod up, varying in price from'la 9it to 12s 6d. Ladies aro invited lo make theirielodtion early, as we cannot replace tho choicest of them 'this season.—Garlick and Cranwoll, Queen-street.—[Advt.

PARLIAMENTARY.

(BY TELKGRAPH.-SPKCIAL REPORTER.)

Wjsixisutojt, this day, District Railways Loasing BUI.

Tiik final protest against the District Rail ways Leasing Bill was made in tho Hou»o yesterday by Mr J. W. Thomson, Mr Rol lesion, and others. Mr Thomson endea voured to have the bill referred to the Public Accounts Committee in order to discover what was the expenditure involved. He asserted that on a moderaSßoalculation it meant an additional taxuWß of Od per head on every man, woman and child in tho colony. The Opposition ;was, however, in vain, tho third reading being agreed to by 4 i to i I, and tho bill passed. The Publio Works Amendment Bill and tho Land Act Amendment Bill were both read a second time, and on tho motion of the Premier, the latter was referred to the Waste Lands Committee to report. ] may explain that this bill repeals tho power of telling pastoral lands for the future. It also makes new provisions for the sale of land on doferrcd payment, and provides that pastoral lands may be leased as runs, provided that no person bo able to lease more than ono of such runs.

Proposed Insurance Boards,

A long discussion took placo on the Go vernment Assurance Bill being moved into committee. Mr W. F. Buckland, Mr Lovustain, and others oppoM) I the measure. Mr Conolly disapproved of local Boards, and considered a central Board sufficient to do the work, while ho thought tho pay ment of members objectionable. The Premier said there was an erroneous impres sion abroad that there would bo no l'arlia; montary control. Tho Colonial Treasurer would be Chairman of tho Board. Govern ment would propose in committee to stnko out the name ot tho Auditor-General from tho list of members of cominitteo.

Bills Passed Through Committee

Nearly tho whole evening sitting was do voted to the Westport Harbour Bill in com mitteo, which was reported with amend mont,

There wasbutlittledisoussion on the (Jrey mouth Harbour Board BUI, and the measure passed through committee niter the amend ments made by the Select Committee had been agreed to, and tho borrowing powers extended from £100,000 to £150,000. The Government Insurance Bill was partly considered in committco, and after four clauses had been passed progress was reported, und tho Uoiiso adjourned at 1.25 a.m.

A Chnngo of Tone,

Mr Samuol is moving for tho production in tho House of tho report of Mr Carkeek's, prepared some time ago, which, ho nays, was much more favourable to tho Stratford routo than the evidence given by Mr Carkcek beforo tho Commission.

Roman Catholic Education.

Tho petitions of Roman Catholics for capitation grants to their schools havo boon ambidored by tho Committee, which ro ports :—" Your Committeo does not con sider it necessary to oiler any opinion to the Hoaso on iho subject matter of theso petitions."

Tho Waiuku Railway.

Mr Ilamlin has again interviewed tho Minister of l'ublic Works respecting his Waiuku railway, but was informed that tho matter had not been under tho con sideration of tho Cabinet. A suggestion was mado to him yostorday to have it brought under tho provisions of theKast and West Coast Railway BUI, as is to bo dono with tho Kamo-Kawakuwu Railways ; but ho asks—Where is tho land to como from V

Answers to Questions.

Tho following information was elicited fiomMinistersyobterday:—UyidrO'Connor: That Government could not recommend a more oxtonuivo uso of the telegraph wire for public correspondence. No less than IHU.OOO messages, exclusive of Ministerial memo.-., were -sent last your mi public businee-s, the value (if thei-.e being about £51,000. Ho believed an undue uso wac made of the Telegraph Department to save tho trouble of writing loltors, und the matter would be looked into. liy Mr Macandrew : That the salaries of o^uniueis, masters, and matos in Otago would bo increased to i'">o, but the Kiino amount could not bo allowed us iii Auckland, as examiners ut latter place h d more work to do. Uy Mr Ouinaef 8 i That Government wore uvorso to paying ovcrtimo for ordinary clerical duties in the Telegraph, Customs, and other depart ments. The subject w ;is now engaging alien tion. Uy Mr White: That Mr Ollivier, who wrote tho letter respecting tho Canterbury unemployed, whioh was tologiaphc.l through tho colony, was in ono senpc v public ofticor, but not strictly speaking w), and the Civil Service Kemulations did not apply to him. It was trim that soino unemployed on piece work at Little River received more than 10s, but some only mado '2s Od. By Mr Griggs That Government would consider what pro portion of trust funds thoy could lock-up with a viow to inventing in freehold security in the colony.

A Boon to Volunteors,

Colonel Reader reported to Government that samples of Morris tubes, a recent in vention largely patronised at Homo for assisting volunteers to carry out their course of musketry instruction in their drill, have been forwarded to eevoral districts, which, if gonerally adopted, should bo a great con vumenoo to volunteers, enabling thorn to carry out their practice in all weathers at convenient times, and obviating the neces sity of members having to travel long dis tances to their several ranges with tho chance of buing interrupted by bad weather. Theso tubes, carrying miniature cartridges, aro easily adjusted to any breach-loading arm, and only require a range of 30 feet. Tho usual sighting is used, and ordinary extractors act in pro ciscly tho samo manner on tho tubes as on tho arm wfthout tube. An additional ad vantago is that, although giving an equal remit in practico.tho ammunition costs but one-fourth of tho ordinary snider anununi tion.

Our Incipient Pauper System,

A return cf a very interesting character, showing tho distribution of Government money in charitablo aid during tho year, ha* just been laid beforo tho House. The following is an abstract: —Subsidies and grants to local bodies : Auckland, £3,295; Taranaki, £00; Wellington, la.lS'J; Hawko'a Bay, 1,552 ; Nelson, £3,033 ; Can terbury, £4,017; Westland, £771 ; Otago, £3,342. A further paper shows that the following amounts wero paid by Govern ment to relievo individual distress during the year : -Auckland, £2,1)31 ; Taranaki, £SSO ; AVellington, £130; Hawkn's Bay, C8!>; Nelson, £724 ; Marlborough, £70; Canterbury, £9,664 ; Westland, £'M ; Otago, £270.

Auckland Petitions,

.Tho following cases of Auckland interest havo been coneidored by the Petitions Com mitteo : -Denis Lynch, Auckland, claiming compensation bocauso of neglect of police to arrost one Crosbio on a chargo of forgery : No claim against the colony. J3. Baurel, claim for compensation for losses arising during tho war: No recommendation to make. .las. Hill, claiming compensation for dismissal: No claim against tho colony. Maco and Ogden: The amount offered (.{.'s Ss) does not appear to meet tho claim, and rocommond tho matter for tho con sideration of Government.

Prison and Asylum Warders,

Mr Peacock has been urging on Govern ment tho desirability of paying lunatic asylum warders wages equal to those drawn by gaol warders. Ho says the difference averages about £25 per annum. Tho Premier, however, pointed out that warders in asylums got their board and lodging in addition to their pay, which wardors in gaols did not, The Governmont did not soo frieir way to mako any alteration in tho present system. The pay of warders in jnou- Zealand was vory much higher, indeed, than that of thoso officials in England.

Annual Volunteor Eeport.

The annual report on the A»olunteer forco of the colony has been made. It states that the now regulations appear to have worked satisfactorily. Tho suggestions for amend ment received from tlio staff officers of ( tho various districts have been slight, but j will form a subjoct for your consideration, ! aa well as the necessity of a few slight ( amendments in tho Act, which, if approved .' by you for submission to Parliament, would j enable tho regulations to work smoothly, j and obviate misunderstanding occasionally raised upon tochnical points. Tho returns show that under the new regulations out of a force of all arms, amounting to 4,332 membors, 3,394 fulfilled the conditions and became efficiontduring last yea ,as under:— •; Cavalry, 255; Naval Artillery, 41 si; Artillery, ; 513; Garrison Rides, 1,368 ; Country Corps, 814: Total, 3,394. The strength of the respective districts is as follows : — North Island : Auckland, 443 ; Waiuku, 9D; Waikato, 130; Tarunaki, 52; Patea, 83; Wauganui, 252 ; Rangitikei, 158; Wel lington,^ ; Wairarapa, 132; Napier, 125 ; Poverty Bay, 33 ; Thames, 104: total, 1,943. South Island : Nelson, 232 ; Marlborough, 86; Canterbury, 513; Oamaru,.2l6; Dun cdin, 74fi; Invercargill, 279; Lake, 125; -Westfand, 175 ; total, 2,370.

RAILWAY ACCIDENT.

A RUNAWAY ENGINE ON THE

ONEIIILVUA LINE.

Narrow Escape from ;■ Terrible

Catastrophe

CoNiUDKiiABLK excitement was occasioned in town this morning through the news gaining currency that an engino hid iui away from the Auckland railway .station and had gone up tho line. Fears were entertained that a terrible catastrophe would result, as tie Onohunga train had left Newmarket and was nearly due. Thin painful feeling of apprehension was <n liancud by tho fiiet that it was regarded as certain that the two engines would meet in the darkness of the Domain tunnel. Crowds of people were soon on their way towards tho Auckland Railway Station, eager to ascertain the facts of tho case, us it was known that tho down train from One huugn always carries a large number of pas sengors—principally businessmen whorosido in tho outer suburbs, and school children. A universal ft cling of relief, however, pre vailed when it was ascertained that id though the anticipated collision had occurred, there had been no serious conse quences. Tho circiinislfinces connected with tho accident aro as follow : —

Causo of tho Accident.

At 8.02 a.m. thin morning a shunting engine was standing in the Auckland Station yard, when another cnjjiuo pro pelling trucks ran out of the shed, and bumped somowhat sharply against the shunting engine. Mr Bennett, tlia engineer on tho latter, had been employed oiling thomaehineiy.andtheshoekthrewhimdoun, and in falling against a water tank he lost three lingers. The bump at the same time caused the regulator of tho engine to fall, and steam being admitted into the cylinders, the locomotive started on" up the lino at half speed. The fireman (Millis) was at this time on top of tho engine und was knocked oil by its suddon starting, so that he was unablo to do anything towards preventing any further mishap. A rumour was currant to the cifcot that Millis had jumped from the engine aftor it had started, but this is contradicted by tho man himself and also by several bystanders.

Efforts to Provont a Collision.

Mr Hudson, the traffic manager, and Mr Hanson, the station-master, wcro im mediately apprised of the occurrence, and under tho circumstances acted with admir able coolness and presence of mind. A glance at tho clock in tho station-room showed that the train that had left Onehunga at 5.20 a.m. wasnow within a few minutes of being due ; indeed, tho chances were that it had already passed Newmarket. The telograph wires were im mediately set in motion, when that which was most dreaded was found to bo Iho fact. Tho Oneliunga train had left. Newmarket about a minute buforo tho warning telegram was received by tho Newmarket station master, was then on its way to town, and a terriblo calamity seemed imminent.

Steam Vorsus Horsoflosh.

Tho station-master, Mr Hanson, proved himself quito equal to tho occasion. He rushed out of the office, and seeing a person on horseback ho conceived tho idea of chasing the runaway engine. Ho mado a hurried explanation to tho rider, and in less time than it takes to write it, Mr Hanson was in tho saddlo and career ii-g along towards tho Auckland end of tho Domain tunnel. It wan dceidedlv a stern chase, as before ho had got Ida Meet courser under way tho engine had disappeared in the cutting leading to the tunnel. Ho travelled at a breakneck pace, and when midway between I'arnell and the tunnel, thu horse ;;ot his foot in a hole, thix'W tho rider, und rolled right over. Mr Hanson sustainxl several bruises about tho hands and arms, but yet continued his chano on foot, leaving the horso to its own devices. When ho reached tho tunnel he found that tlio Onchunga train had met tho runaway train at the northern end of tho bricked portion of the tunnel, that thoro had been a collision, and that the Unehunga engine had been a good deal damaged, ami one carriage slightly injured. All the passen gers, howevor, were happily Kcathloss. Dr. Coombo w;ts on the scene, but for tunately his services wore not required.

Tho Onoimnga Train

had, as wo liuve already stated, left Newmarket about tho samo timo that flm runaway engine started on it* purpotelesH journey from the Auckland Station. Attachedjto the Onehunga train were five carriages and a van. The engine was in charge of Mr Robertson, who has tho reputation of being one of tho most efficient and trustworthy men on tho lino. There were about ono hundred passengers in the train, a largo proportion of them being Bihool children. As our renders are doubt less aware, tliero is v Blight bend in the Domain tumid which prevents a clear view being obtained right through. Daylight is, howovor, only lost for a period of two or three seconds. When Robertson had brought his engine round the curve ho caught sight of tho ruifaway engine bowl ing along towards him. Owing to tho con struction of tho tunnel ho lher,Jh:id a'cloar view of nearly a milo ahead. Although at a 1 s-i to account fcr tho presonce on the line of tho approaching engine, lie promptly shut oft'steam and had the brakes put on, and at tho same timo sounded tho whUtlo.

Excitement Among tho Passengers.

Tho shrieking of tlio whistle, together with tho slackening of the speed of the train, hud by this timo communicated to tlio passengers tho fact that something was wrong ; indeed, somo of them looking out of tho winifowa could boo the runaway engine approaching. Tho imminence of a collision under such circumstances created tho greatest oxcifement and apprehension. Many of tho ladies burst into tears, and the unfortunato children seemed parnlyecd with terror. Ono male passenger sprang out of tho train, and falling on the track, cut his nose. The guards, who, it would appear, did not lose their presenco of mind, called out to the passengers to lie down and hold on to the scats. This suggestion was gonorally acted upon, and no doubt pre vented serious consequences that otherwise might have occurred.

The Collision,

By this time Robertson had brought his train to a dead-stop just at tho commence ment of the woodwork of the tunnel, Ju^t then the runavay engine, whose speed had boon considerably reduced by the arduous pull up tlie stoop grade, collided with Robert sou engir.o. The shock was not a severe one, None o f tho rolling-stock left tho line, al though tho CQW-catchor of the passenger train was^ carried away and both engine; slightly injured. The passengers "wore agreeably surprised on finding that the shock had not been a violent ono, and that casualties wero nil. A number of them scrambled out of tho train and in spected the damage. Shortly afterwards a relief train with officials and appliances arrived on tho sccno, and the lino was cleared without difficulty. In conifequenco of tho accident, the Waikato train was de tained for three quarters of an hour, but otherwise the thno-tablo was adhored to.

A Passenger's Statement,

Mr William Henry Learning states :— " I was a passenger from Onehunga. As soon as wo got into tho dark Gf tho tunnel wo heard our engino begin to whistlo, and looking out of the windows saw another engino coming up from the l'arnell end. Weheard ourguard sing out to ' Hold on and liedown.' There were about eight carriages on the train, all pretty well filled, including a largo number of school children. Two carriages on this train are always reserved for scholars, and they are nearly always full. loccupiedacarringcin about thomiddloof the train containing about eight passengers, four of them ladies, and when the fact becamo known the greatest excitement prevailed. The ladies called out, and tho men en deavoured to roassuro them as best they could. Mont of the passengers held on to tho windows, which were all down, and at the same timo wo endeavoured to assist the ladies. Wo folt our train slowed down im mediately wo got round the bend from the Newmarket end of the tunnol, and before the shock came tho train was going much slower than the usual speed. About two minutes, I think, elapsed from the time the loose ongino was discovered until tho two met. Wo had meanwhile arranged ourselves as best wo could. Most of the ladies had gone down to ono end of tho carriage, and we had followed them and quietened them. One lady in tho next train waa crying very much. The shock of the collision was heavy. I was thrown from the window where I was holding on to tho door dividing the lirst-class from the second class carriage. We'v ere thrown overy way, but nobody was hurt. It was just glimmer ing light. Two of our passengers 'jumped off aud went on to see-what Was the mattqj;, but most of us kept our seats. A party 61

gangers ami engineers came up irora Auolc rand to make any necessary repairs, and the 100.-c engine having beeu taken back to town, wo followed it on. One of Iho pafflongors from another carnage had lumped oIV in the tunnel before the collision occurred, and his noso and faceTcro a good deal cut. If the engine hn,| been Jtnrteil two minutes «»n« *h S could not hnvo boon .eon 11 time to Hlauken oil, owing to tho bend at. - H-,i,i-kot, und the collision would have taken place at, full Hiwcd ; or if it hud been lutei, on the I'arnell incline, our train could not have been slowed down. None of 1 lie car rinffos left tho line, and all the passengers were unhurt except tho ono who jumped oil"

linglne-Di-iver Bounett. Iramoiliatuly after the acuidont, Bennett, tlio engine-driver of the rfiuiitinp engine, \vn.« conveyed to the District Hospital, whero Dr. i.on:! found that, it was neoeswnry that ho should undergo an operation. Chloroform was administered, and three fingers of the left hand were amputated, tlia top joint of tho fnvt linger being also removed. Thin afternoon at two o'clock Dennett was interviewed at (ho Hospital by a Staii reporter. He appeared to bo us well ax could bo expected under the cireum staucoß, :md not by any means in bid spirits. In reply to a question lie said he is n inaiiicd man and Ims a family. Regard -11114 tho accident he made tho following statement:— Shortly before nine o'clock wo were taking in co.al and wutor. 1 had just linished oilinpr tliuengino, mid was Btanding oil the ground beside her. I think ut this time my (ireniau, Dick Mellu-i, was on the engine. He it a trustworthy, iutelHgent lad, und icnowa.suDiciuutabouttUo'unyiue to^tup her. . While I w&<i ataiulin.L' iis 1 have des cribed, tho engine received a bump, and I fell down. 1 don't know whether I was knocked down by the engine or not, or how I came to lose my finders. I thinl: it piolittblo that they were jammed in sonic eomc way by t'.ie truck. When I got up I'saw theen^ino moving oil', but us 1 thought the fireman wan on board J made no attempt to catch her. 1 think I could have managed to do so; lit any rate I would hnvo made a try for it. I don't believe that the man .standing at tho nincal points could haye got on board, bocauso she wn:i then going at too great a speed. He might have got on to the cow-catcher, but it would liauc been risky. We had about Ki'ilbn. of Btcatn on while we were standing. I cannot understand how the jerk moved the regu lator, as it is pretty still'— not, so still' as hOl n■;, but one needs to use bguig force to move it.

An Enquiry

Into the circumstances attending tho oc currence will be held on Friday or Satur day next.

Tho Traffic Manager

is of opinion that even had Robertson not noticod the approach of the runaway, tho consequences of thecolliHion would not have been very serious, an Iho bases this assumption on tho ground that the speed of the runaway engine had been greatly re duced going up the grade, while the passen ger train was sliding down the grade with scarcely any steam on.

THE ART EXHIBITION.

TliK Orst exhibition of tho New Zealand Art Students' Association, which opens to night, promises to be a success. The Choral Hull has been elaborately decoratod all round and on the floor with native

foliage j and tho collection of Maori curiosities, the property of Mr C. 0. Davis, will certainly receive the attention it merits. 'I hroofourtha of the wall space aro occupied by tho works of tho students now exhibited for to first time, tho remaining fourth being taken up by the loan collection, which, it may bo observed in passing, consists of pictures of a high class. The present, exhibition diiVerg considerably from any other which liuh been held in Auckland. The subject* aro all local, and tho attempt lvi" been made by the iitudents to paint, what they sue, unit to free thdftiselvofl from conventionality in stylo and treatment. Tho error which has prevailed hitherto, viz., of seeing Now Zealand scenery with English or Italian eyes, has been avoided as far as possible. Tho objects, then, of the Association uro worthy uiies, and deserving of encouragement at the hands of the public. On this account, if on no other, tho support accorded to tho Exhibition thould be sub-

stantial. But tho works tlumisclves, apart frutn other considerations, demand atten tion on their merits generally. We fhall content ourselves to-day with merely a pas sing notice of some of the principal exhibits. Tho President of tho Association, Mr K. Watkins, contributes several pictures, foremost among which is " An Autumnal Evening on tho Waikuto." Mr Watkins has often been indebted for inspiration to the swift-flowing Waikato, and hi.-) treat ment of tho scene now chosen is very happy. The fidelity to nature displayed in tho foliago on either bank and on tho hills in tho distance deserve great praise. Perhaps thia picture may bo ro garded as a manifesto of tho new associa tion, graphically advertising the principles on winch it intends to work. If so, let it be regarded as a manifesto only, not as a model to bo slavishly imitated by younger artists. It should be, to vaiy the figuro, a guidepost only, and notthe destination. A figure picture by Mr Watkins, "A Ranjia ira and his Daughter oi the Olden Time," is not so fortunate The two figures lack lifo. They are too sot and motionless. Tho girl seems to bo advancing towards tho canoe in which hor stalwart father tsits at the river's brink, but we do not learn that fact from the activity and life shown in her limbs.

c Two largo canvases by Mr Gaut aro s,uro to strike everyone's eye; one is a sunset, the other a moonlight scene. But the colouring is altogether unreal. At least, that is our opinion. We never saw such Imo3 in nature, oithcr at tho antipodes or at

Homo.

It will at onco bo ovident that Mr S. 11. Keesing, an Auckland-born artist, entirely self-taught, has made great pro gress. His landscape, "Evening; a Scene on the Mangawhara Hirer," takes the gold modal—a fact which reflects great credit to hhr>, since he was tho young est competitor. Hero will be seen the appli cation of the remark made just above. Mr Keesing has certainly been imitating Mr Watkins. Tho model followed in this case was exhibited at the Society of Arts Exhibi tim Isb year. A companion canvas, " Morning," on'the samo river, was entered for the " Ranolf and Ainohia" competition, but. as it was not a "figuro competition it failed to fulfil the conditions. Mr Keeeing hug attempted to depict the reflection of tho river bank in the still water ; but the result is confused, and not clear and distinct, toll ing its own tale, as it ought to do. Tho reflection to the lefts looks like a mist rising from the surface of the stream. Mr Keeeing also sends the most ambitions' picture of tho collection, viz., "Amoliia," illustrating some stanzas of " Ranolf and Amoliia." The heroine is bound to n, tree, by the anus behind, mid confronts tho spec tator. The figuro was painted from life, and undoubtedly shows a great advanco upon anything MrKccaing has done before. The shoulders seem out of drawing, and tho face docs not exhibit thoso traces of lierco wrath which tho unhappy girl is said in the poem to have felt.

Mr Sharpe's two pictures are ofl'octive and finished with that learned minutonora which characterises his style. "Among tho Kauri, Castle Koclc, Coromandel," appears to be quo of his happiest efforts. It deserves its award, viz., tho silver medal of the Associa tion. The view of SirOecrgo Grey's houao, Kawau, is pretty, though there is a little too much of the architectural drawing about it.

Mr Stuart's stylo has changed very much for tho better"; His " Burfi Settlor's Homo" (first prize in third competition) is a faith ful representation of things as they are. Thi." artist is still characterised by formality. His landscape seems to us io haro deserved a higher prize th.in tho fifth.

Tho Rev. P. WnL-h sends a frame, con taining six admirable pictures of scenes near Coromnndel, executed in monochrome. They deserve, and they will bear, closa examination. As descriptions of up-country life in this colony, it would bo difficult to beat them.

The following mining telegrams were re ceived to-day :—Cambria : " :i7ozs. lSdwts retorted gold from 35 loads." lvanhoe • " Quartz from \o, 2 level is making good .«how in plates." ' "

The Auckland Hospital librarian acknow ledges eleven numbers of "The Contem porary Review " from Mr E. Dufaur ai d four numbers of "The Boy's Own Paper? from Mr H. Smith, Ponsonby.

At Invercargill yesterday an old woman named Elizabeth Jenkins, who lived alone at Gap Road, was accidentally bun t to death. . ■

Tawhiao and party.who are expected to arrive in Auckland by the steamer Waira rapa, on Tuesday next, are to bo heartily welcomed by tho teetotallers of the city, in recognition of their adheronco to tem perance principles during thoir visit, to England, •,

FRANCO-CHINESE WAR.

DSFEAT OV THE FB.ENCH,

(r.Y CABIK —COFVRIGHT),

(Uocuivod October 15—11.15 a.m.)

HoNfiKON'ci, Octoher 14. lN'TliLi ; i'iiiN''/: has been received here that on the Sth inst. a considerable French force landed at Tamsni, Formosa. A sevoie engagement with the Chinese ensued, in which the Preneli suffered heavy loss, and were cowpolled to withdraw and return to their ships in port. A London telegram {rives the following version of the enga^onient : —OOO French troops at Tiuneui were ied into an ambus cade, when twenty of their number wtre killed and beheaded. The remainder man age! to return to their whips in safety. The French have promised not to molest Shanghai if their countrymen are net molested.

THE KHARTOUM EXPEDITION.

COLONS!. STSWABT KI3PORTED

STILi ALIVE.

(I!Y CABLK—COI'VHtUHT.)

Cairo, Octobor 13. ■ Rkmodum have readied hero to the effect thai Colonel Stewart was not killed at vVad el-llhomar, but is a prisoner in the hands of tho Arabs.

Illness of Lord Northbroolt.

Lord Nortlibrook, who is n<>«- in Upper E<jypt, is indisposed, and is returning hither.

SPORTING NEWS.

Quip was scratched yesterday for all en g-.'i->emeiiin at the Palcuranga Hunt Club Meeting. ~~ Tlio acceptances for tho Caatff&d-Cup will be found on the fourth page.

NORTH ISLAND TRUNK RAIL WAY.

Wellington Opposition to Branch Lino.

(MY TKLEOHAPH— OWN REPORTER.)

Wellington, this day. The feeling in Wellington appears to.bo very strong against the construction of a loop line, or any delay in proceeding with the railway by the central route. The " I'oat" had an article last night, in which it said : —" The Auckland people seem to liavo ooiiio to their senses a little over the question of railway route. The wild and foolish talk at first indulged in by Messrs Vailc, Nathan, and others about opposing anything except tho one they approved, is no more heard. Tho Auckland Chamber of Commerco ie now gruciously pleased to Shy that it will not oppose tho construction of tho central lino if the colouy will commit itself to an extra expense of throe-quarters of a million or no to conserve the com mercial intercuts of Auckland by making a spocial branch lino to New Ply mouth. Wo appreciate tho modesty and goneroi-ity of Auckland. They seem to think their commercial interests aro the only things worthy of any consideration, mill v/ill no doubt bo very indignant when tlicy uro told that tho colony hiu nothing to do with tho protection of those interests as against tho interests of any other place;; and the trunk railway is not, as Mr Jiryi-o in his evidence very clearly put it, to be made for the benefit of any trading contru, but to open up country and establish through communication by the line which will do this best. The time has gone by when the colony could alford 16 m.'iko practical railways to purchase the support of particular districts, In the main we agree with Mr Bryco that 'the only justification for borrowing monoy for tho construction of railways is the opening of the country.' The exceptions to this rulo wa need not hero refer to. The branch lino now proposed by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce would be a jaolitical lino of the very worst character. Tho public in terests do not require such a line, and the public credit cannot be burdened with the cost of such a line. To make it would be to divide between two lines a traffic which will bo but barely sufficient for many years to pay the working expenses of one. Wo trust that Government will remain firm on this question. Their plain duty is to insist on tho construction of a lino by tho boct route, as determined by tho Committee, without holding out any hopes of branch lines to suit the requirements of par ticular looalities. There is another sug gestion made by Auckland people which should be resisted—that is, to go on with tho construction of the line fromTe Awaruutu South this year, and leave tho determination of the southern line of route frora the junction of the rival routes to be determined hereafter. This would be a great wrong. Not a sod should bo turned till the whole line of route is fully and finally determined on. Government have only to remain true to themselves to be enabled to do their duty to the colony in this matter, irrespective of local influences of any kind. If Auckland and Taranaki chooso to offer obstruction, it can easily bo brushed aside, and in case of being hardened in selfishness, ns the Auckland Chamber of Commerce appears to be, the House will, no doubt, quickly make it understand that the general interests of the colony must be regarded as superior even to the mercantile interests of Auckland. The latter, howover, are not really endangered, as Auckland merchants might easily perceive if they were wis» enough to look beyond their noses."

•Tall" Writing About Auckland.

An article of a particularly lively character on the samo subject appeared in yesterday's issue of the ""vvairarapa Star." The maundoringß of this writer are calculated to amuse if not to edifjf. I make the following extracts : "It is a pity that the trade rings of which Auckland is par excellence the centre cannot be induced to look an inch before their noses whenever anything affecting Auckland interest comes in eight. Visions of wrong inflicted upon the people of that warm and unhappy region of volcanic debris begin to dance in the bosoms of her devoted bank and more devoted insurance com panies, embalmed by faithful directors of money rings, South Sea kidnappers, pakeha- Maoi-te, native land sharks, and ladies of the perio:l _ enshrined in match-box hotels and suicidal boarding-houses, surrounded by speculative villas, that like Mounts Etna and Vesuvius start occasionally into flames. The scoriucity of Mount Eden would make the city load a dreamy, somno lent kind of existence, wore it not that the weight of its iniquities, lying heavily across its chest, causes ite clumbers now and then to be disturbed by frightful night mares. The Chamber of Commerce, which may bo regarded ag one of the many un savoury trading rings of tliis sulphurous locality, has just been startled into subter ranean activity by the brief report of the Select Committee appointed by Parliament to inquire into the routes proposed for the northern trunk line of railway. It is passing furious resolutions of protest, andfomentlng monster indignation meetings. We trust, however, in the interests of common decency, that the Auckland people—whom wo do not for a moment wish.-to-identify with the ' carnivorous, money-grubbing, land-speculating, and paper-circulating lings that we have described—will pause ami reflect before dancing to the music which tlio Chamber of Cominerco has sot for thorn."

MINING NEWS.

(BY TELEGRAPH—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Thames, this day. Queen of Beauty.— The pumps are work, ing admirably, and the water in the shaft has boon reduced 40 feet within the last 24 hours. COSOMANDEL. Success.—The manager reports on the 13th inst.:—"For the week there has been no improvement to report from the mine. The prospecting stope, which has been car ried ahead, has not shown up as it should havo done, although tho walls have com« together and are well defined, showing Iho usual mundie indications. I have started to timber up to open out again, trusting for better results." '• ■.. ■ ■•:

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 1834



Special Advertisements. SPLENDID VARIETY NEW SPRING GOOD 3. WILLIAM K. BKIDGMAN Dosirc3 to Inform his Customers that tie is now showing a ' BEAUTIFUL ASSORTMENT OF NEW GOODS FOB THE COMINO BEARONT. Very Choice Patterns of New Prints, from 2jd ynW, to tho Tery best The New Kevorsiblo Prints, choice patterns N invent Doeigns in Sateens, rery pretty goods' Splendid Assortment New Dress Goods in great variety, very low in price Large Assortment New Lace Goods, In white ivory, cream, &c; real Maltese Lace, from 7Jtl yard Job Line Coloured Dress Beiges, bought low Bold clwcap Nico Good 3in Black Broche Satins New Patterns in Cretonnes, from 13d Now Aprons, Ribbons, Gloves, Collars. Ties OotKl Floorcloth, Is 3d yard ; New Umbrellas splendid Assortment white and Grey Calicoes wholesale prico by the piece New Clothing in Men'g, Boya', and Youths' , SO Boys' Leopold Suits, la lid, 5s 3d, to 12s Cd SO Meh's Tweed Suits, 223 (Jd, worth 30a New llatfl In great variety Kaiapoi Clothing In consequence of tho Intensb Competition in the Urapkhy Tkadk, W. B. B. has deter mined to 11AKIC -ALL GOODS at the LOWEST MAIICUN' OF PROFIT, and consequently NC DISCOUNT can ba allowed. KKMAINDEK OF WINTKR-STOCK. AT A GREAT REDUCTION. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE 233, UPPER QUEEN-STREKT



Special Advcrtlacmcnts. nr BCI & L BAN X' fl O'ti DA Y. 'tfoUce is horoby givon that tlio 16Ui day of Qotobor, being the 23id Anniversary of the opening of the Bank, will be held as a Special Wnk Holiday at all the Ofllcea of tins BankinNew ? ea.and.^ iiNMuKßAY Inspector. Bank of New Zealand, ■ • Auckland, Uth October, 18& J. ______ rVR, WILK IX S, F. 11. C. S. \J COWSITLTINQ AND OPKRATINO SOHOKO.V, la at his Surgery for General Practice, also Eye, Kah, and Throat Diseases, MOKNiNoa, Afternoons; and Evenings. Consultation Fees very Moderate. Dr, \Vn,KiN'B spent seven years Rt Jloorenelda Kyo Hospital, London, under Messrs Dowman »nd OrifiUett. two at Throat Hospital, London, •even years Honorary Surgeon Albert I fospUal, »nd eight years at Kye, Ear, and Throat In flrmary,Melbourne.'AdjußtS9pectaclcs to sights. -Consulting Rooms, Queen-street (near Post ddlce), Auoklaud. WE FURNISH HOUSES TIIKOUGHODT. GAHLICK & CRANWELL'S ia tiii: CHEAP FURNISHING WAREHOUSE. JUST OPENED, Beautiful Assortment BRUBSBLB TAPESTRY, KIDDKRMINISTER CAKPETS. SPLENDID LOT BEDSTEADS, ■ Just Rccolved, IRON AND BRASS, NICKEL-PLATED. QABLIOE AND QHANWELI, KURNISHINQ WAREHOUSK. QUKJIN-STREBIT, AUCKLAND. M r A.lfred Smith architect (Fellow of tiib Royal Institdte), HAS REMOVED TO 18, SHORTLANDSTREET. DR. C. NEWBERRY COBBETT, M.8., M.S., EDINBURGH (Late Resident Physician, Accouchour, Rotunda Hospftal, Dublln.&c.. &o.(, ALFRED-STREET. ALBERT PARK, Near Choral Hall. Hooks of Consultation. At H0<238: 9-11 a.m., 6-7, and 8-9 p.m.■ , At Mr Aickin's Pharmacy, Queen-street: 12-1, und 4-5 p.m. Special practice in Midwifery and Diseases of Women and Children.



j\/I'B,S T> QOMERVILLE, WELLKSLEY-STREET (OPPOSITK OPEUA HOUSE), BEGS TO INTIMATE THAT SHE 13 NOW SHOWING ENGLISH and PARISIAN MILLINERY ENGLISH and PARISIAN MILLINERS RECEIVED PER lONIO. October t, 1831. CH. HUXTABLE, M. D., • MASTER IN SURGERY. Has Removed to Wellesloy-strcct Kast, two doors from SymonJa-atreot. AT Home for Consultation, 8 to 9.30 a.m.. 2 p.m., 6 to T.SO p m. At King and- Son'b, Queen-street, 11.30 a.m. At Rohinsox's, Chejbst, Pahkbix, 4 p.m. Public Vaccination ovory Friday, at King's. .■■-. - - ■ ■ , • M ILNE & C HOYCE Have jiisi received SPECIAL IMPORTATIONS IN MILBINERY, DRESS MATERIALS, LADIES' AND CHILD'S COSTUMES, LADIES' AND CHILD'S UNDERCLOTHING. N.B.— Wcdd'mrj'Orders, Mourning Orders, DRESSMAKING, Mantlemaß-iig, Ladiet' and Child's Outfitting, and Boys' Clothing all ■well and expedi tiously made on the pi'emises. All Goods Marked in Plain Figures. FIVE PER CENT. Discount for Cash. MILNE & CIIOYCE, LORNE AND WELLESLEF STREETS.



FEATHER DYEING OR CLEANING PAR EXCELLENCE. . STBAW HATS AND BONNET 3" PERFECTLY CLEANED, DTED, Oil ALTERED. Quickness of Exeoution and Moderate Coat specially considered. ; . MRB D. P., FISHER, , For many years in businoss in Wellington, and well known in soveral parts of tho colony, de sires to intiranto the opening of premises at OKAM'9 BUILDINGS, Corner of • , WFJXESLEY AND IIOBSOH STBEETS, , On tho line or. Tramway. . ■ In tho art of Dyeing Mradfishcr acknowledges no superior-in tho colonies, and admits of very few equals. ;' THE SNAKE ROOT REMEDY for RHEUMATISM and GOUT.-The - .. CIMICIFUGA (ACTIA RACtHOS*)oB BLACK SNAKE.ROOT has been lono celebrated -AS A RHEUMATISM REMEDY. THIS PBEPASATION IS THE MOST CERTAIN IN ITS EFFECTS. AND RARELY FAILS TO AFFORD RELIEF OR EFFCCT.A CORE. ' S». PER BOTTLE. AT MCMH'S. ■■■'IWE. (PttkRWI^CV OmiSUt BMW Ot H.I. CJUtIN ST



CATARRH OF THE BtADDER.-sih.gln,; imt» ' • I i:i'j.munition, all KMnpy all,! similar CDiuyhlula, wued bj ' Huuhu-pallHi." At Dl-U^'l its. Kumiltliuru i frosaer & Cv., Age nt», Auckland^ Pore Tea—For refreshing the weary, and cheering the social, pnro Teaalono excels all other beverages. Try Rew's puro blended Toa,