NEWS OF THE MONTH.

AUCKLAND, N.Z., April 20, 1884,

Major Atkinson, Premier and Colonial Treasurer, delivered an address to his con stituents at Hawera on Monday, 7th in«t. Having abandoned his original intention of speaking on the subject of Federation, the Premier made this a deliverance on general political questions, and a forecast of the Government policy during tho approach ing session of Parliament. The speech lias been widely and adversely criti cised, especially in regard to two pros pective Government measures. One of these has reference to the question of native land—tho Premier intimating that it is pro posed to revert to the system of Govern, ment pre-emptive right over such lands. This i.s well-known to be the view of the Hon. Mr Bryco, Native Minister, and that gentleman is expected shortly to address tho country at some length on the subject. This proposal, if carried out, would bo a severe blow to t!io North Island, the greater portion of which is still native territory, and upon tho opening up of which the prosperity of tho North greatly depends. Judging by past experience of tho pre-emptive right, it only substitutes ono set of evils for another, while it has the most undesirable result of locking up the country against exploration and settlement. The other question is that of national edu cation, which is becoming so costly that the Premier is of opinion it must be holped by the imposition of fees for the higher branches or the raising of the minimum school ago, while buildings will have to bo provided for by taxation, general or local. The Premier is a Denominationalist in educational matters, and though ho confesses that his views aro unpopular in this respect, there is a feeling of disquietude in the public mind lost there should be any hurtful tampering with tho prosont unsectarian system of education under pretoxt of economy. The Premier admitted that there was a deficit of £170,000 on his estimates, but took a hopeful view of the situation, holding that tho colony was perfectly sound, and that thero was no real depression existing. He dofonded the re ductions made in various administrative departments, and the increased railway rates, though tho latter had aroused the determined opposition of Canterbury supporters of the Government. He also intimated his belief that further borrowing would be necessary, but said that the money so raised should be specifically allo cated, and full provision made for interest and sinking fund. The construction of the main trunk line to connect Auckland and Wellington, for which £ 1,000,000 of last loan was allocated, would bo an important matter for next sossion of Parliament to consider. Tho Premier, at the close of his address, re ceived a vote of thanks and confidence.

Two other members of the Cabinet- Messrs Kollcston and Conolly—have since addressed their constituents, and the reception accorded them is further proof of the growing unpopularity of the present Ministry. Hon. W. Kolleston, Minister for Lands, spoke on 19th inst. at Papanui, Canterbury, and on the various political questions which have come to the front he expressed substantially the same views as had been enunciated by the Premier, lie did not, however, touch upon tho questions of native land and educaton. In his re marks on railway tariff, the lion, gentleman evoked marks of displeasure from the meeting, which interrupted his address. At theclosoaresolution, "Tliatthismeoting has no confidence in Mr llollestonasroproscnta tive of the Avon district," was carried by a larfo majority, only about a dozen voting against it. lion. Mr Conolly, Minister of Justice, addressed his constituents at ricton on the 22nd inst., giving a review of the work of last session of Parliament, and a forecast of the coining session. He said tho three leading questions to bo fought out at the hustings were-Separation or pro vincialism ; land tax versus property tax ; And denomimitionalism as against the pre sent systom of education. Mr Conolly received a vote of thanks and confidence, but sit amendment was well supported.

Mr Montgomery, tho leader of the large section of Oppositionists, followed up the 3'remier's speech by an address to his con stituents at Akaroa on the 10th inst. This was chietly occupied with a criticism ot Major Atkinson's Hawora address—a criti cism generally pronounced ineffective in itself, but finding its strength in tho un popularity of the Government in Canter bury district. Mr Montgomery advocated tho total cessation of colonial borrowing, tho imposition of a land tax, and retrench ment in the Civil Service, as the remedies for the existing financial depression. Major Atkinson having mado light of the depres sion, the Oppositionist chiiif drew a highly exaggerated picture of tho state of the southern portions of the colony. In con cluding. Mr Montgomery said that the Opposition wore anxious for the early meeting of Parliament in order that they mifht oust the Ministry, and make an appeal to the electors. A Ministry that would never retrench, but on the contrary resisted all endeavours of others to reduce expenses-a Ministry that had put the colony into a financial mess and dared not call the nieinbors together at the close of the financial year-the days of that Ministry, he said were numbered, and the sooner they jvent the better for the country. Members of Assembly are called togetnei for ibe despatch of business on ath June next, and in view of the coming meeting pre-4ssional speeches of members of the Souse of Representatives are the order of the day all over the colony. It is a notice able Sen of the times that former staunch SotX* of *'"> Government show signs of Pwaverin-, and usually promise to con- I- +j,oir ilieeiance only on certain con finsAs aSS X falling away, there "aeue rumours of a possible coalition ZVw the Ministerialists wd the party of Op^itioni S tß who attach theuwlvw to ♦L leadership of Sir George Grey. This day or so tor umb ' chris tchurch and ■ charge against a very prominent civil t who up to tho time of his arrest, fThl ho'ldin" the important office of had wJV°X r v to tho Premier, has Private BMWgg^ attention through attracted conweu* which was on e outthecolon>. iw £ £207 preferred of alleged cm!^«"g™ D „ V J invest i. against Daniel G. faunae* h , c t gated at the Resident Ma^te < Wellington, on, Apul A Mr j^ defended by Mr M«aHl^ ndespl m 0 evidence Iwct -™? Ad monoy , the only Ins client had <;' '^ z , a(1 roved being a thing the p.^ec lion aa I failure on l^cc of% money ad account to the trav , olUn g espouses. srsLfc rL* •-- & tO ~ that the accused had -^ »o»e| ; Tlt /ould'have "een brought to prove and snouitt o»« , v:,-.], h; s client *W?la %£ weeks before he had been winch but a tfw *J°, ~ hasseV vedupon ■rthat body for n.^f^^a b y the rate

month. Ho has been one of the most inde fatigable members of the Board, and his term of office has been marked by pro gressive enterprise in various works, which should tend to tho prosperity of this part of the colony. Mr Graves Aiokin is the now Chairman, and brings to the discharge of his new -duties the ripined experience of long and faithful sevvii o in Harbour Board, City Council, aid CLa; iber of Commerce, as well as an unquenchable enthusiasm for the advancement of the port and colony. His heart is bound up in the place, his voice has always been raised for the promotion of its interests, and there is no fear that he will begrudge any effort that may contribute to its continued pros perity and well-being. Ho has well earned the distinction that has just been conferred upon him, and he may be depended on to ■ wear it right worthily. The news of Prince Leopold's sudden and altogether unexpected decease at Cannes produced a shock of pained surprise throughout the colony, and much sympathy was both felt and expressed for tho Jtoyal Family in their affliction. Great regret has also been manifested that one whose life had been so gentle, studious, and fair, and whose career promised both to reflect honour upon Mm family and to bo attended with blessing for his people, should bo cut oil' in the flower of his youth. Colonists are strongly democratic in tone, with perhaps more than a tinge of Republicanism, and royalty at a distance per sc lias no bewilder ing charm wherewith to command their veneration, but the young Prince's virtues had rendered his name popular. At all tho Consular Olliccs, as well as from the Albert Park flagstaff and the shipping in the har bour, flags were tlying at half-mast out of respect to his memory, until the Saturday on which he was buried. A similar de monstration was made in the othor cities of tho colony, and from the pulpits of many of tho churches sorrowful reference was made to tho Prince's death. In tho mean time the Government, through His Excel lency the Govornor, had sent to the Secre tary of State for tho Colonies an address of condolence with Her Majesty in her bereavement.

The gubernatorial party have been re siding quietly in Auckland since tho last mail left, with tho excoption of a brief visit to tho Thames .and Coromandel, and a trip to the Kaipara. The former districts wore visited at the beginning of the month. His Excellency, with Lady and Miss Jervois, left town after midnight of the 3rd inst. in the Hinemoa, and arrived at Grahamstown, Thames, aboutlO.SOon April.'?. As thclline moa could not come to tho wharf, the party landed in the long boat, and were met by the Mayor (Mr Fraser), County Chairman, and Councillors, who escorted them to the inner ond of tho wharf, where a salute was boing fired meanwhile. A platform had been erected hero, and addresses from the Borough and County Councils wcro pre sented, while a number of school children sang tho National Anthem. His Ex cellency then inspected the Big Pump, Al burnia and Moanataiari batteries, tho Imperial mine, tho runanga-houso, Parawai, and tho booms. On tho following day ho pro ceeded to Ohinemuri, and on baturday to Coromandel, returning thenco to town. On Saturday afternoon, April 19, Lady Jervoia held an " At Home," which was largely at tended. The interest of the gathering was greatlyenhanced by the formaldecoration of Miss Crisp, Supt. of Nurses at the Auckland Hospital, with the Royal lied Cross, given by Her Majesty for services in connection with tho South African and Egyptian campaigns. The Governor performed the ceremonial, and also delivered a suitable addross. Earlier on the same afternoon lie had presided nt tho annual meeting of the subscribers to, St. Stophon's Orphan Home, and thero likewise delivered an address. His Excellency, accompanied by Mi F. \V. Penncfather (private secretary) and Dr. Campbell, left per special train on Monday, the 21st, for Helensville, whence he went on by steamer to Dargaville. Here ho was enthusiastically received by Europeans and Maoris, and suitably entertained.

An agitation is on foot among tho benefit societies established in the colony for tho ropeal or modification of the Friendly Societies Act, and a con ference of local d-legates was hold in the Lome-street Hall on April 4 to determine what course they should pursue in tho mattor. Considerable discussion took place, in the course of which it was gener ally admitted that tho Act stood in need of amendment', dissatisfaction being es pecially felt with tho amount of statistical data required from tho secretaries of lodges by the Government, mid its indisposition to allow the societies to calculate tho valua tion of their property at tho rate of inter est they aro able to get in tho colony. It was eventually agreed that steps should bo taken to secure tho ropeal of the obnoxious clauses, and a com mittee was appointed to collect statistics with the viuw of furnishing tho Government with data as a fresh basis for valuation. The Government on its part shows a disposition to meet tho societies half-way. During tho Easter week, Mr Frankland, Acting Registrar of Friendly Societies, arrived in A uckland on a mission of concilia tion and inquiry. Since then ho has con ferred with tho local delegates, and although the precise nature of tho consultation has not transpired, it is understood that tho official emissary has given assurances touch ing reform which have been received with much satisfaction. In all probability the Act will be amended during the approach ing session of Parliament.

The foundation-stone of the projected Baptist Tabernacle, at the corner of Karan gahape Road and Upper Queen-street, was laid by Dr. KonJordino on Easter Monday, in the presence.of a vast coneonrso of peo ple. Addresses were delivered and religious exercises ongaged in, while offerings roach ing in the aggregate to the large sum of £388 wero laid upon tho stone. In tho evening a celebrative soiree was hold in St. James's Hall, which was crowded to excess. Tho Rev. Thomas Spurgeon pre sided, and in the course of his remarks mentioned that, coupled with the proceeds of the tea, tho day's takings would just realise tho sum ho had sot his heart upon— viz., £500. The now Tabernacle is to be of brick, upon concrete foundations, and faced with plaster, while the total cost, including that of site, is estimated to amount to £12,000, of which about £9,000 has been al ready raised. To Mr Spurgeon himself isduo the inception of the project, and it is his own remarkable popularity as a preacher that has rendered it practicable as well as necessary. For a long time past even tho Choral Hall has been found in adequate to accommodate the crowds who flock to all his services. When he assumed charge of the Wellesley-street congregation some 2i years ago it was arranged that after 2 years' work he should have a holiday, and immediately after the laying of the foundation stono the church granted him the necessary leave for a trip to England. He preaches farewell sermons on Sunday week, and leaves several days later for the Old Country via Hobart, where he has promised to open a new Tabernacle.-/ Mr Spurgeon hopes to raise a considerable sum ot money among his father's people for the Auckland Tabernacle, and expocts to bo bank by January in order to open it.

The Japanese war-vessel Tsukuba, after j a stay of somo four weeks in port, left on ' Thursday, April 17, with Sir George (ircy on board, for the latter'? island home, tho Kawau, whither he had invited the ofticers. They spent two days there, and then re sumed their voyage to Chili. This is the second visit of the Japs to Auckland, and on both occasions they have " won golden opinions from all sorts of people." The men while on shore behaved themselves in a most exemplary fashion from first to last, and the officers have done their best to acquaint tlicmseU-cs with the "lions" of the place, beside? rendering themselves as agreeable as possible to those with whom they have been brought into contact, flis Worship the Mayor showed them round tho city, and took them up to Helcnsvillc, and tho o(H. cors returned tho compliment by treating tho citizens to a ball on board their vessel. The City Guards fired a friendly rifle match with the Japanese, «4i4 beat them, and the Naval Brigade succeeded in mulcting another defeat in a rowing contest TI'O visitors proved to be jolly good fellows, and everyone regrets their do parturo. In tho course of an interview with Star reporters, tho surgeon, Dr. Aoki, stated that tho mission of the voesol here was of a dual purpose, (Ist) to train cadets, and (2nd) to test the efficacy of a European recimen of moat and vegetables in the cure of a disease named "lcakke," which is peculiar to Japti, reciting from indulgence in a strictly vegetarian diet.

Mr Federli, a Canterbury resident, who has been experimenting for somo years pasj in silk and olive culture, is now on a visit to this province under engagement to the Government for the purpose of utero| uig the settlers in sericulture and in the cultme of olives and other sub-tropical fruits. AiAc&vinS in the Waikato he came to town and" 4&yp*& a lecture before the Institute, the result of which has been tte formation of a SericuWl Association. Before this body, Mr Fednrli also <?el}vered an address, in the oonne of which be adv* cated the establishment of a farm for the practical working of the silk industry. The Association resolved that a company should be formed, with a capital of £10,000, for the purpose of engaging in the culture of Bilk,

olive, wine, colza, castor oil, and kindred products, and that the Government should be asked to grant 1,000 acres of picked land, to introduce four families from the south of Europe, and to give an annual grant of £1,000 for five years as a subsidy. Sub sequently, Mr Federli addressed the Cham ber of Commerce on the same subject, and that body passed a resolution recommending the Government to offer similar induce ments to those mentioned above for tho prosecution of the industries under notice. The Government has since replied that the matter will be considered before Parliament meets. The Star promptly contested the value or desirability of such industries as silk and olive culture, and showed that they afforded but very slight encouragement to small settlers ; pointing out, too, that they only throve in countries where labour was plentiful and ill-remunerated.

The organisers oi the Eight Hours De monstration have issued the annual report and balanco-sheet. The report congratu lates the friends of the movement upon the growing success of the annual display, and assorts that the increased interest felt in it this year was proved by the fact that saveral .sections of labour that held aloof on former occasions were represented, while it was hoped that the next will ombraco every branch of- skilled and unskilled labour. Tho procession to tho Domain on tho 29th of January was much larger than on any former occasion, and the mass meeting in the evening was a pronounced success. The entire expense of the latter was borne by the Trades and Labour Council, to which body tho delegates therefore voted a sum of £10. £11) was also voted to the Dis pensary, in return for which Dispensary tickets M-ere issued, and distributed among tho delegates for use in eases of distress. Tho handsomo balance of ±'C 00s lOd re mained in hand, but this was lessened by tho deduction of £M 3s, being tho amount of judgment and costs in a caso brought by tho woman who purchased the solo right to vend refreshments at the Demonstration, but had not enjoyed it. Tho delegates suggest tho 29tli of January, ISSS, ns being the most suitable day on which to hold tho next Demonstration, and they have instructed tho Secretary to advertise in September next for tho appointmont of delegates, their first meeting to bo hold ill October. Tho balanco in hand has been deposited in the Auckland Savings Bank in the names of Messrs I'arkos, King, and McKinney, as trustees.

Tawhiao and the other mombors of tho Maori mission finally started for England on April Ist. Being unable to secure berths in the San Francisco mail boat, they determined to take passage in tho Union S.S. Company's Tarawera to Sydney, and proceed thonco via Melbourne to Eng land. The party, in addition to the King, comprised Topia, a poworful Wttllganui chiettain, who had contributed £1,000 towards the expenses; Patara To Tuhi, who acted at one tirao as editor of tho native newspaper started to support the Kingito cause ; MajorTo Wheore, M.H.R., and a half-casto named Skidmoro, who will act as interpreter. The party reached Sydnoy in safety, and going on to Mel bourne, spenta few days " doing" that city. They continued their journey by tho Oiiont steamship Sorata, whioh loft Molbourno on April 19.

Tho New Zealand Sugar Company's lirst consignment of raw sugar, amounting to about 900 tons, arrived from .lava by the barque Stanley on April 17. The Stanley has been berthed at tho Company's wharf, Northcoto, and will disehaigo her cargo in about a week, excellent arrangements having been made for tho landing of goods by means of a number of steam winches placed on the wharf. Tho buildings and machinery at the works nro almost com pleted. Unfortunately, the lute arrival of a portion of the necessary machinery delayed operations longer than was anticipated, but it ih fully expected that real work will bo commenced in July or August. Amongst other very useful articles on the Company's ground is n weighing machine by Pooley, capable of weighing ten tons. Arrangements havo been made for a regular supply of raw sugar from .lava and China, and tho following large vessels arc already alloat with cargoes for this port : — Androklos, from China, with about 000 tons; Mauhcgun, from Java, with 1,500 tons; Maroon, from Java, with 700 tons ; and Thames, with 700 tons. This, with tho shipment already received, makes a total of 4,400 tons received ami on tho way. Vessels will arrive hero about onco every month, bringing on an average about 000 tons raw sugar. All willdisohargoatthe Sugar Company's Wharf. When the re tinery starts, a fow months honco, it will bo equal to tho turningoutof 250 tons per week, and will reline about this amount atstarting. All tho principal portions of tho plant at prenont are equal to f>oo tons por week, and very little extra plant will bo required to make the refinery equal to this amount of work.

An interesting and important announco mont was made by Mr Justice Gillies at tho meeting of the University Collogc Council on April 1. Ilia Honor .stated that, in conformity with the wishes of his lite wife, it was his intention to j>lace £3,000 at tho disposal of tho Council for two scholarships of £100 per annum each, to be called "The Sinclair" and "The Gillies" scholarships, in momory of Dr. Sinclair, formerly Colonial Secretary of New Zealand, and of tho lato Mrs Gillies. The scholar ships will bo tenable for three years, and aro for poor scholars only. The gratification with which tho intimation of this munificent and well-bestowed legacy was received by tho University Council is shared by tho pub lic at largo. Our city has been excep tionally fortunato in numbering among its wealthy residents citizens of the highest public spirit, and to them we are indebted for our principal in stitutions. That our }roung and struggling University should so soon have become tho recipient of marks of regard augurs well for its future, and for tho aid which it will yet render to tho deserving student. The dona tion in question will fittingly porpetuate the memory of a lady who was over fore most in promoting tho success of our various charitable and philanthropic insti tutions, and it also serves as another proof of the keen and active interest which Mr Justice Gillies takes in the University Col lege, whoso destinies ho has assisted to mould.

Another munificent bequest by an old and respected colonist falls to be recorded. At the meeting of the Diocesan Trust Board held on the Gth April, it was intimated that a letter had beon received from the executors of the late Lady Martin, intimat ing that the deceased lady had directed that a considerable portion of her estate should be sot apart for the benolit of the Native Parsonage Fund, a fund for the maintenance of Maori clergymen. .It is expected that the bequest will prove to bo of the value of £3,000, which should prove of great value infurtheringthe spread of pOßpelordinauces among the nativo population.

The growth of the colony by the surplus of immigration over emigration continues at a satisfactory ratio. The returns for the month of March are as follows :— Auckland : Arrivals, Gl9 ; departures, 296. Wellington: 542 and IG4. Napier : 3 departures. Greymouth :30 departures, lfckifika: 32 arrivals. Lyttelton: 1 arrival arid lfi'2 departures. Duncdin : 34S arrivals and 0 departures. Invereargill: 421 arrivals and 321 departuren. Total: Arrivals, 1,034; departures, 1,082. Of arrivals, 1,054 -were from the United Kingdom ; S.OJO from Australian colonies; 432 from Fiji, and 23 from Hawaii and the South Seas. Departures: 201 for the United Kingdom; SOl for Australian colonies ; 14 for Fiji, and 3G for Hawaii and South Seas. Chinese: Only one arrival, but 30 departures. No return from Russell and Nelson.

Tho three hundred and odd immigrants who arrived here on the 15th April by the Rangitikei had a very narrow escape from a Inief detention in quarantine. Dur ing the voyago from London, no less than forty-three cases of measles occurred, mostly amongst tho chil dren in tho married people's quarters, but fortunately no deaths occurred directly from that cause. The last caso of measles was cured just 22 days before arrival. As the Aofc prescribes that if any infectious disease oxists within 21 days of arrival in port the vossel and passengers must be quarantined, it will be seen how close tho new arrivals were to having a most unacceptable ex tension of a passage already prolonged by adverse weather. Tho ship was berthed alongside the outer western tee of the Queen street Wharf on the lGth April, and shortly afterwards four o£ Crowther's brakes eon- I veyed the single girls to the Howe-street ' Home. The majority of the other immi grants have found homes through their fneucte in Auckland. Thesingle men have all I disappeared, gomp baying "put up" with ■ friends and others having found employ- I ment, while fully two : thirds of the single | girls have already been engaged, and there 1 appears every prospect of the whole ship -1 ment speedily settling down into certain ■ and remunerative employment, as many (others from the Old Country have done I before them, and that without diffi- Another faifure has been added to the many well-meant butunlucky attempts to in troduce salmon ova into New Zealand rivers. ! The mail steamer, which arrived on April 16, brought 30,000 trout ova from California

for the Auckland Acclimatisation Society. The cases were examined on their arrival, and the whole consignment was found to be worthless. The ova were found to be well packed, and it is supposed that want of attention on board the vessel caused the failure.

That wonderful life assurance association — the Australian Mutual Provident Society— continues to make rapid and solid progress, as evidenced by the 35th annual report just received in Auckland by steamer. During the past year, 7,029 policies have been Issued, assuring £2,577,723, with a total new premium!) revenue of £94,189. The accumulated fund has been increased by £575,129, andnowamounts to £4,924,713. The annual revenue of the Society exceeds £950,000. The actuary is now engaged in the valuation of the liabilities of the Society at the 31st of December last, and as soon as these have been ascertained the surplus will be divided among the members. The completion of the city valuations of property for rating purposes enables us to estimate tho growth of Auckland in material wealth. The following table shows the valua tions of city property (annual value) in 1883-S4 and 18S4-S, r), after revision by the Assessment Court : — ISS3-J. 1831-5. Qrofton Ward .. .. £li!,0(.il £13,557 Eastward 88,21(1 WJ.331 Nort.li Ward .. . i BT,-I»3 72,483 SoulliAVard .. .. 18.119 i">1,309 Karangaliaao Ward .. 19,331 21,186 Ponsonuy Ward.. .. 31,787 88,922 Totals .. .. £2C8,553 £'2U0,7i» It will thus bo seen that the net increase for tho present year amounts to £22,207. Amongst tho passongors from Fiji by tho last trip of the s.g. I'onguin was a gentle man tmmod Bailey,who, it was understood, had samples of auriferous quarto with him, said to have been found in " tho crown colony of a sovore typo." Mr Bailey was. hod of n communicative disposition, and nothing delinito regarding tho now El Dorado leaked out. Wo bow hoar from the Thames that several miners have boon en gaged to proceed to tho islands, and coupling this fact with the secrecy that has beeu observed, it certainly looks as though there was something iii tho discovery. A gentleman who was in Fiji during the Cakabau regime informs us that auriferous quartz was discovered by a friond of his amongst some building stone brought by the natives to tho coast for the purpose of building a church. His friend gave tho Government information of tho discovery, but tho authorities,from reasons beatknown to themselves, hushed it up. We give the story for what it ia worth. Their victory in tho recent liconsing elections has whottod tho zeal of tho temperance party, who aro preparing plans for further attacks on tho liquor traffic. A petition for tho extension of tho Local Option principles is being circulated through tho colony for signature, and is intended to bo laid before next session of Parliament, in support of a Local Option Extension Bill to be introduced by Mr M. W. Green. The objocts of tho bill aro to extend the franchise to all single women in so far as liconsing matters aro ooncorned, and to extend tho principle of local option so that all renewals of licenses, as well as new licenses, shall bo subject to a direct vote of tho pooplo.

THE NORTH ISLAND TRUNK RAILWAY.

As our English readers are doubtless aware, tinea routes nro proposed for tho connecting link between tho railway systems of tho provincial districts of Auck land and Wellington—one by tho West Const, a second through tho eontro of tlio inland via Lako Tanpo, and a third via Napier and tho East Coast. Tho Hon. Mr Mitchelson, Minister of Public Works, Is making himself personally acquainted with tho several routes, with tho view of report in}; thereon to Parliament. On April "22nd he completed his inspection of tho central route. Accompanied by Mr Knorpp, G.E., tho Minister, on April 7, started on luh journey from Wellington northwards. A coach conveyed tho party to Fox ton, and thence rail was taken to Marton. Tliero thoy were mot by Mr Kochcfort, the surveyor of tho central routo, wlio gavo all the information neces sary to enable tho Minister to find the various points of tho lino. On the Sth inst. ' tho party left Marton in torronts of rain, and travelled by Murray's track to Pckiore, arriving tliore after nuiiMst. On Wednesday, tho !)th, tho day was spent in examining tho buttli between Marton and tho l'atea country along tho banks of tho Itangi tikoi and Hautapu rivers. On tho follow ing day loft Pokioro for Adnmfon'n clearing, tho truck running through tho bush for a distance of 45 miles, arriving tliero after sundown. Tho llth was spent in examining tho country around, includ ing the l'atea country, and the party ascended tho trig, hill known asTuhirangi, from which point a splendid view was obtainod of tho whole of tho bush country between Adamson's clearing and the western side of Kuapohu. In tho oven ing of that day they camped under the Kaimanapoa Ranges, immediately oppo site Ruapehu. On the 12th, Tokaanu, at tho edge of Lake Taupo, was reachod, and on the I3fch tho party loft Tokaanu for Mangatepopo at the foot of Tongariro. On the 14th Whangamarlno was reached, and from tho hill known as Hahungatahi a magnificont view was obtained of the wooded country at the S.W. sido of Ruapehu,and along the line up as far as Taumaranui. On tho 15th the party ar rived at Mocrangi at the odgo of tho bush, where tho Pukotapu track enters. On the lGth a native village named Ngapoki on tho bank of the Pungapunga Creok, in tho Tuhua country, was roachea ; on tho 17th tho party reached Tamurinui, tho placo whero Mofrat was killed. Here thoy found tho natives greatly distressed at tho Europeans endeavouring to force their way into tho Tuhua country searching for gold. On tho following day (tho 18th) Waimihi was reached, and on tho next day the party stopped at Kuiti, in the Wai kato country, arriving at Kihikihi on Sun day last. The line itself is about as good a routo for a railway as could bo obtained anywhere. The steepest grade would bo about one in eighty, and the cost should not exceed fo,ooo per mile. Tho total length of the lino from Marton to To Awamutu would bo about 200 miles. Mr Mitchelson's object was not only to see tho line, but to inspect the country on oithor sido, consequently tho routo .taken by tho party was a zig-zag. This made the distance travelled between 500 and GOO miles. Should Parlia ment decide on the central route, the distance by rail between Auckland and Wellington wculd be 420 miles. Mr Mitchelson and hi 3 companion were exceedingly well received by the natives mot with during the journey, the Minister's perfect knowledge of their lan guage standing him in good stead. In the Upper Wanganui district the natives stated that they had been looking for a prospector named Barry with the intention of turning him back. Tho Government ex poet that in the course of a year the' Maoris of this locality will not oiler any objections to the prospecting of thoir country, and bolieving as they do that any attempt to search for gold surreptitiously will destroy the present harmonious relations, it is pro bable that thoy will for tho present assist the natives in preventing Europeans from prospecting. To-morrow (Sunday) Mr Mitchelson starts from Auckland, intending to travel overland to Wellington via the West Coast routo.

MINING.

The gold exported from New Zealand during March last amounted to 70,9670z5., valued at £253,797. Of this, £26,758 wortli went from Auckland.

Specimens of geld from throe different tributaries of the Wanganui River have boon found at Pungapunga, Waitapu, and another place. The matter is causing great excitement,

Tho Cromwoll Quartz Mining Company, Otago, which has paid £18,250 in dividends since ISGD, has lately been non-paying, and it is proposed to cease operations. A minority of shareholders wish to spend £4,000 in sinking to tho lower levels.

An attempt is to be mado to work the deposits of green carbonite of copper dis covered by Ford and Partridge, in the Malvern district, Canterbury. Analysis shows there is a sufficient quantity of the metal to make it profitable, and a Company is to be formed under the title of the Mal vern and Cornish Copper Mining Company.

The proprietors of the Whauwhau colliery at Whnngarei have now in course of con struction a new double inclined plane, which will give such facilities to the mine us will secure an output of 300 tons per working day of eight hours. It is eight feet wide by six feet in height, and six hundred feet in length, being constructed at a coat of £200. This inclined plane is intended to open up the remaining area of the field, and from this point drives will radiate in all direc tions. The main drive has been constructed with the object of increasing the output of the mine, pending its being connected with the Government railway Tins by a line a little aver a mile in length,

MERCANTILE.

3,000 sharks have been taken in the North New Zealand Farmers' Association.

Wellington Public Hall Co. declare a dividend of 8 per cent, for last year. " Otago Daily Times " Company have de clared a dividend of 8 per cent, for the past half-year.

The director of the Colonist G.M. Co., Te Aroha, have declared a dividend of (id per share. The Drapery and General Importing Company of New Zealand, with a capital of £124,000, has been floated atDunedin.

Of £30,000,000 lent on mortgage in New Zealand one-half is owned by people living in the colony. It is rumoured in Wellington that the in surance companies are likely to decline insuring frozen meat sent by sailing vessels, except at rates which will be prohibitory. In New Zealand thero are about 500 hands employed in the manufacture of agricultural implements, while to keep up the supply of these tools we havo to import every year about £100,000 worth of imple ments.

Tho Caswell Sound Marblo Company lias reached the end of the second year of its history. Calls to tho amount of £2,499 15s have boen paid, and a shilling's worth of marble sold. Tho salaries paid were £208, and tho wages list amounted to £2 Gs Bd.

At a meeting of the Committee of tho AucklandSericulturalAssociationan address was delivered by Mr Fedorli, He suggested that a farm should be established with tho object of practically working the silk industry, and with tho objoct of spreading all the information possible to tho colony at largo, and to malce tho concern not a local but a national one ; and that this should bo by private ontcrpri.se. Somo considerable discussion ensued, and it was eventually agreed, on the motion of Mr Comiskoy:—"That a company be formed with a capital of £10,000, forthe purpose of establishing tho culture of eilk, olive, wine, colza, oastor oil, and other kindred indus tries, and that the Government bo re quested to grant (1) 1,000 acres of land to bo selooted by competent judges. (2) That Government introduce at their ex penso four familios accustomed to the above industries. (3) That tho Government give an annual grant of £1,000 for 5 years as a subsidy to tho Company." Professor Brown, Mr Comiskoy, and Mr Shcra were appointed a committeo to wait on the Chamber of Commorco to ask that body to assist in urging upon the Government the advisability of granting the above conces sions.

Wellington-Manawatu Railway Company.

The annual meeting of the Wellington- Monawatu Railway Company (limited) was hold at Wellington on Wednesday, April 2, and was largoly attended. The report and balanco-sheot woro adopted. The Chairman said that CBJ miles out of 83 miles wero already under contract. The remaindor of tho lino was vory oasy, and the total cost would be considerably under the Engineer's original esttmato. A much bettor Tine than tlio original Government one had been adopted, ana for 60 miles the railway grade would be 1 in 10 instead of lin 50. Groat credit is duo to Sir Julius Yogel for the successful floating of shares ami debonturos in London. Votes of thanks woro passed to tho Directors and to Mr Higginson, chief engineer, Mr Wal lace, secretary, and tho otlicers of tho Com pany.

Auckland Agricultural and Mercantile Company.

Tho annual mooting of tho shareholders in the Auckland Agricultural and Mor cantilo Company was held on 31st March, Mr O. W, Owon, Chairman of Directors presiding. Tho annual report was read stating that tho rosults of tho past year's business had not beon quito satisfactory, owing to the abnormal ntato of trade in in tho province during that period. The directors regret that they cannot recommend a dividond to bo paid. But as trade is assuming a more healthy tone, they look forward to tho futuro year's transactions nnd feol assured they will be able to meet the shareholders with a substantial profit to compensate for tho past year. The balauce-ahcot was also submitted as follows:—Liabilities : To capital, £100,000, loss uncalled £70,2282s Cd—£23,771 17sfid; niortgagos, £4,950; bills payable, £17,921 4s Sd; other liabilities (open), £17,149 13s sd; profit and loss, £480 8s sd. Total, £03,379 4s. Assots: By stock on hand, £19,978 12s lid; properties (shipping), £22,G74 KSs Sd ; bills receivable, £2,(i91 4s Sd ; book dobts, £17,937 lfls Sd ; cash on hand, £98 12* Id. Total; £03,379 43.— On the motion of Mr D. H. McKonzie, the animal balance sheot and accounts woro adopted. The roliring directors, Messrs D. H. McKenzie. .Tamos McGowan, and E. Y. (*ox were re elected, and tho meoting closed.

Northern Omnibus Company.

An extraordinary meeting of tho above Company was hold on April 18, in Mr G. D. Smith's workshop, Mount Albert, was largely attondod. Mr Mitchell occupied tho chair. A financial statement showing the position of the Company was read as follows:

Assets and Liabilities, March 31, 18S4. Liabilities.—Sundry creditors (old ac count), £57 16s 2d ; bills payable, £830 11s Od; sundry creditors (new account), £231 2s4d: £1,12510g. Asskts.—Cash, £160 8s 7d ; unDaid calls, £422 10s; uncalled capital, 1,878 at 2s Gd, £234 15s; deficit, £313 ss: £1,125 10s. Against this deficit must bo put—Plant, cost, £1,375 9s 9d ; land, cost, £250.

Profit & Loss Account to March 31,1884,

Dr.—To stock, Doccmber, 1883 £80 5s ; wagos and salaries, £359 ss; rent £42 16b ; forage, £276 Gs lid ; repairs, £69 10s 6d ; charges, £49 13s 8d ; horsoshoeing, £30 17s : £908 14» Id.

Cr.—By receipts (average £43 10s 4d), £447 5s ; stock, March 31, £45 10s Gd ; net loss, £115 18s 7d : £908 14s Id.

Rouan Balance-sheet. Dr.—To capital, 1878 shares at £1 each, 17s Gd called up, loss £422 10s unpaid, £1,220 15s; bills payablo, £830 11s Gd ; sundry creditors, £238 ISs 6d: total, £2,296 ss.

Cr.—By plant, £1,370 9s 9d; land, £250; profit and loss old balanoe, £253 7s 7d ; new balance, £115 18s 7d ; preliminary ox penees, £94 10s; stock, &c, £45 10s Gd ; cash in bank and hand, £166 8s 7d: total, £2,296 ss.

New Zealand Pedigree Stock and Stud Company.

The annual meeting of the Now Zealand Stud and Pedigree Stock Company was held at tho Company's offico, Shortland street, at 2 o'clock pm. on March 31. Mr T. Morrin presided, and there were about 15 shareholders presont. The report showed there had been a loss of about £4,000 for tho year, owing to the re-valuation of the stock, The balance-sheet showed the valua tion of the Company's proporty to bo ns follows :—Cranston estate, £62,000; Sylvia Park estate, £28,879 12s 6d ; Meadow Bank estate, £27,068 5s ; Greenhill, No. 1, Butloy and Chase estates, £28,658 11s 9d ; shorthorns, £16,578 10s; thorough bred horses, £17,315 j Clydesdale horses, £8,520; Lincoln flock, £4.129 ISs, Leicester flock, £2,8J3 18s ; tho total assets being £252,949 3s lid, tho liabilities being :—To capital, £70,193 10s ; Bank overdraft, £28,504 12s 9d; bill pay able, £150; sundry creditors, £154,091 Is2d. The expenditure during the year had been £28,924 10s lOd, of which £8,888 0s 5d was interest on mortgages; £2,039 3s 7d depre ciation on shorthorn herd ; and £1,350 11s 9d depreciation on Clydesdale horses. The profits had been : —Thoroughbred horses, ' £4,671 5s 3d ; Herefords, £2,392 Is 8d ; profit on farming, £3,775 0s lid; profit on shares St. Helier's Bay Com pany, £1,635 6s 10d.—Tho Chairman in moving the adoption of the report, ascribed the unsatisfactory state of the balance-sheet to the re-valuation of the stock. The sales during the year had only been £16,700, but they hoped next year that they would amount to £22,000, which would pay expenses and interest, and givo a profit of 5 per cent. —The motion to adopt the report was put, and carried with out dißsont. Tho retiring directors—Messrs Frith, Clark, and Morrin—wore then ro elected, and, Mr Milne having been re elected auditor, the proceedings termi nated.

Kamo Coal Company.

The following ia the report read at the meeting of shareholders in theKamoColliery Company on April 2 :— " Your directors, in presenting their annual report and balance-sheet, are pleased that, notwithstanding the heavy expendi ture incurred in opening up the mine, erection of machinery, purchase of freehold property and steamers, the future of the undertaking is so very satisfactory. In the development of the mine your directors have been guided by your manager, in whom the Board has great confidence. Re ference to his report for his opinion ef our future prospects will be more satisfactory than anything we, as non-experts, may pre sent as our belief. From the manager's re port it will be seen that, within threemonths, the necessary railway and underground works will be completed, which, in his opinion, will permanently place the colliery in the list of dividend-paying mines. Your

directors, after a careful investigation of the affairs of the Company, believe there is no reason to differ from tho manager in his predictions with reference to the payment of dividends. Your directors have purchased from J. Mitohelson and Co. their proneral store at Kamo on the most advantageous terms, and believe it will prove to be a pro fitable concern. The freeholds rocently acquired being to the depth oPthc pre sent workings, and being (so far as can be ascertained) in perfectly undisturbed country, should be of great value. There is also on this land a large deposit of merchantable marble of excellent quality. The coal now being worked is within a few feet of these properties (see plan), and re tains its original thickness of nine feet. Tho quality, also, is as good as could be desired, tho engineor of our steamer Waitaki, together with other engineers, re porting most favourably upon it. So soon as the railway is completed from the main lino to tho shaft, say in about two months, and connection is made botweon tho shaft workings and the old mine, estimated to take about three months, we shall be able to win our coal at such low rates as to ensuro upon a small output, substantial returns. Tho Board regrets their inability to purchase a suitable hulk in the Colonies, and were compelled to buy one at San Francisco. Pending her arrival tho Company is unable to supply a contract entered into with the Union S.S. Company for tlio supply, in Auckland, of 1,000 tons of coal per month, to bo increased at the option of tho U.S.S. Company to 2,000 tons per month. To enable tho Company to supply the abovo coal, your directors havo purchased the steam ship Waitaki, and at a price which they believe to bo considerably less than her value. The company has received an order from the New Zealand Shipping Company for a quantity of coal to bo supplied to their s.s. British King, expected to arrive in Auckland about the 29th April, and tho representative of Messrs Shaw Savill Com pany, at an interview with one of your directors, promised to coal tho first of their line with us. So soon as the hulk arrives your company will bo in a position to supply with coal, in any quantity, direct ocenn and other steamers trading to this port. Your directore havo also ordered from England ono of Rigg's patent coal tipping machines and curved balanced scieen, which they feel confident will reduce the cost of winning by at least one shilling and twopence per ton, besides improving the quality and ensuring all coal being well screened.— Thomas Moitnix, Chairman.—3lstMarch, 1854."

SPORTS, ACQUATICS, &c.

The inter-provincial cricket match, Wel lington v. Canterbury, was concluded on April 14, and resulted in a drawn game. The annual football match, Christchurch v. South Canterbury, was played on April 14, and resulted in tho former winning by three goals to ono try. At tho Plumpton Park Coursing Meeting, Canterbury, on April 4, the Derby was won by Pakeha ; runner up, Sir Widley. The Oaks was won by Bohemian Girl ; runner up, Piako. The Cup was won by Bordeaux ; runner up, Azalea. A second rowing club has been formed in Onehunga, showing that our friends on the eastern harbour are awaking at last to tha advantages of a splendid sheet of water. On Tuesday night last, " The Manukau Rowing Club" was formed, and officers were elected as follows :—President, MrJ, Bollard; Vice-President, Mr W. G. Glenny; Secretary, AlrJas. J. Sheldric; Treasurer, Mr R, P. Hollisj Captain, Mr Geo. Taylor. The colours adopted are red and white, and before the meeting broke up a sum of £20 10s was subscribed.

The visit of New Zealand footballers to Australia has been arranged for. A tele gram from Duncdin says :-—The New Zea land football tonrn of nineteen men will leave Wellington for Sydney on the 22nd May, returning by. the steamer of the 17th Juno. This will allow three weeks in Sydney, during which time it is proposed to play six matches—two against New South Wales, one against Queensland (if a team of that colony can be induced to visit Sydney), and three matches against district teams. Seven leading Otago players have consented to go if chosen, and a most hearty welcome is offered to New Zealandera by the New South Welshmen.

An amusing scone, in which a party of Maoris and some Japanese sailors were the principal actors,happened in the lower part of Queen-street on April 7. Tho risible faculties of the aboriginals were tickled by the diminutive proportions of the "picka ninny " sailors, and they gave vent to their amusement in bursts of derisive laughter. Tho "Japs" exhibited no concern, but the Maoris were intent upon displaying their superior physical power. One burly native singled out a little bine-coat and chal lenged him to WTestle, and tho sailor, nothing loth, rightly understood his signs, and they proceeded to work. In tho twinkling of an eye, the Maori was prostrate on tho earth, and scarcely had he recommenced operations when he was down again. This was more than he bargained for, and losing his temper, he displayed an eagerness to fight. The Japanese was, however, satisfied with his victory, and seeing no reason for resorting to blows, retired with his comrades. There wae no doubt, however, that he had inspired the Maori with a bettor idea of the physical strength of himself and his countrymen than had been previously possessed. The rowing race between crows from the Naval Brigade and the Tsukuba,which took placo on Saturday, April 12, resulted in a victory for tho Navals". The course was from tho wharf round the Tsukuba, thence up round the furthest coal hulk to the westward of tho wharf, and back to the wharf, finishing between the wharf and the flagship. The competing crews were as follow3:—Tsukuba: Chief Petty Oflicer Mayeaa, coxswain ; Potty Officer Kuroya ; leading seamen, Akaboshi, Riku, Oshima, Shimizu, Kademnto, Abu, Kawanishi, Fukuyo, Fuji-e; able seamen Imai and Hirai. Auckland Navals: Chief Petty Officer McKay, coxswain ; stroke, Seamen F. and J. Findlay ; No. 5, R. Moore and Joseph King ; No. 4, E. Moore and Harvey ; No. 3, Slado and Brannigan; No. 2, Fenton and Harding; No. 1, Petty Officer Mooro and Petty Officer Clarke. The race was rowed in two heate. In the first each crew occupiod their own boats, and tho Navals won easily, tho time being : Novak, 3hrs. 38mius. SOsecs.; Tsukuba, 3hrs. 40mins. lOsecs In the second heat the crews exchanged boats, and this time tho "Japs " won, although not so easily as their opponents did in the previous heat. Tho time 3 were : Tsukuba, 4hrs. 12min. 17sec3. ; Navals, 4hrs. 12rain. 42secs. In the evening the Naval Brigade entertained the Japanese at a dinner served by Mr Mc- Keown at tho Imperial Dining-rooms, and a very pleasant evening was spent.

Tho first annual aquatic sports in connec tion with tho Church of England Grammar School took place at Judges Bay on April 4. Mr C. A. Tobin acted as starter, and Mr W. W. Robinson as judge. The wind being from tho N.E., caused the water to be rather lumpy, but this probably increased tho interest of the competitions, tho major ity of which were swimming events. The following are tho results : — Swimming Race, 220 yds. Open to all). There were six entries. The contest was very close, and finished as follows : —F. Smith, 1; W. Rylance, 2;, E. Cavo, 3. Time, 4mins. 25secs. SwiMMitra Rack, 150 yds. (Between 12 and 14 years).—Two entries. The event re sulted :—Hull, 1 ; Smith, 2. Time, 3Jmins. Lose. Dive (Open to all).— Eight entries. After an interesting contest, tho prizes were awarded as follows: P. Smith, 1 ; Rylance, 2. Long Dive (Between 12 and 14 years).— Three entries. The result was : Hull, 1; Dawson, 2. Swimming Race, 75yds (Open to all).— Nine entries.—This event was won by Moon, F. Gouk being second. Time, Imm SOsoc BwnmiJTO Back, 40yds. (For boys tinder 12). Two entries.—The race resulted: Smith, 1 ; Hull, 2. M\kOvekboakd.—Prize given by u,-fl. Tobin, Esq. Fourteen entries —In this event tho competitors were placed ma boat a short distance from tho shore All were fully dressed, and tho winner had to bo first in the water after having divestod himself of everything except shirt, trousers and socks. Three or four jumped ovorboard at tho samo time, and tho award was made as follows : Hull, 1; Snelling, 2.

AGRICULTURAL.

HOPS grown from cuttings planted leas than Fix months ago in Hawke's Bay Dis trict have yielded 7cwt. to the acre.. A crop of parley, running 50 bushels to the aore, has been got from the Apple Com pany's farm, and has been sold at 4s per bushel. The Heddon Bush and Hillend estate, Southland, containing 23,000 acres free hold land, were sold on April 10 for £45,500. George Willis & Co., Adelaide, were the parchasers. „■. ■. . The Farmers' Co-Operative Society is proving a big success in the Waikato, its influence being already felt in reductions in j the price of seed and manure. Over- 2,500 shares have already been applied tor.

RELIGIOUS.

Mr Pooley has received the appointment of organist and choirmaster at St. Luke's Presbyterian Church, Remuera, and com mences his dutica on the first Sunday in May.

Messrs Booth and Glover commence a temperance crusade in Auckland next August. The Rev. Mr. Sutherland, of the Taicri, Otago, who goes Home by the Tongariro, is commissioned to represent Otago Presby terian Synod at tho Belfast Assembly. The Rev. J. S. Boyd has been appointed to the charge of Epsom district by the Auckland Presbytery. He takes the place of MrD. Nome, student, who will probably be sent to Northcote.

Mrs Hampson, the well-known revival preacher, who has been labouring in Honolulu for some time back, returned to this city by the mail steamer Australia on April G. At a meeting of parishioners, held on April C, in St. Patrick's Cathedral, Bishop Luck presiding, it. was resolved to proceed at once with the erection of tho new Roman Catholic Cathedral

At a meeting of the parishioners of St. Matthew's Church, Dunodin, on April 12, the vestry reported that they had succeeded in raising the required sum of £1,000, and were in a position to continue the church as a parish one.

Tho Rev. W. 11. 11. Jervois (son of His Excellency tho Governor) preached on Sun day forenoon, April C, in St. Paul's Church, from Mark xi., 7 —9. The incumbont, Rev. C. M. Nelson, preached in the evening, the Rev. Mr Jervois assisting.

A social gathering of the congregation of Graf ton Road Wcsleyan Church was held on April !), for the purpose of welcoming Rev. Mr Bavin, who has boon appointed to tho charge of the circuit. Tea was pre pared by the ladies, and a public meeting was held subsequently, Mr William Burton presiding. Addresses were delivered by Messrs 1? A. White, .1. L. Wilson, Hogg, and Bavin. Selections of music were con tributed by the choir. We learn that the Presbytery of Auck land has just completed the purchase of a site for a church on the Surrey Hills Es tate. The site ia a fine level piece of ground, with D 2 feet frontage to Rose Road, and 177 feet to Surrey-street, amply sufficient for church and manse. It is ad mirably adapted for the purpose required. It is contemplated to build at once, ixnd we heartily congratulate the Presbyterians of Auckland in their being the first to supply tho wants of this rising neighbourhood in the sliapo of Sabbath services, On April 0 anniversary services were held at the Grafton Wcsleyan Church, large con gregations being present at both diets of worship. Additional interest attached to tho proceedings from tho fact that the Revs. G. Bond and W. C. Oliver delivered farewell sermons on tho occasion of leaving for tho South. At tho Congregational Church, Beresford-street, anniversary ser vices also took placo yesterday. At the forenoon service, P^ev. ,J. Robertson, pastor of the church, preached from Ist£orinthian3 iii., 9 ; and in the evening, Rev. A. Reid, of Pitt-street Wesleyan Church, gave an earnest discourse from Romans xii., 1. On both occasions there were largo congrega tions, and the proceeds were devoted to the organ and church extension funds. The Rev. Thos. Norrie, the popular Presbyterian minister in charge of the large district of Drury, has just been the recipient of a gratifying mark of esteem from a section of his flock. At tho last monthly cottage prayer meeting held at Otau Settlement, Wairoa South, Mr Daniel Crawford, on behalf of the ladies and others, presented the rev. gentleman with a valuable Biblo and Hymnal, accompanied by an appropriate address. Rev. Mr Nome returned thanks for the valuable and unexpected gifts. Re ferring to various invitations to leave his present sphere which he had declined, he stated that such an interesting proof of affection and interest as the present testi monial further convinced him that it was his duty to live and labour among the people of his present sphere. The United Methodist Free Church at Mount Eden, which has undergone some alterations, been re-seated, &c, was re opened for divine worship on April 5. The Rev. W. S. Potter preached in the afternoon, and the Rev. R. J. Roberts in the evening. On Tuesday, Sth, the tea and public meeting took place. Mr W. R. Bridgman occupied tho chair, and addresses wore delivered by Messrs Knott and Parker, the Rev. S. Macfarlane, who com pared the '• olden time 3 " with the present, showing the many advantages the young of the present generation have over their an cestors. The Rev. A. Reid gave a graphic and interesting account of his visit to Jerusalem. Suitable music was rendered by the choir. A very pleasant evening was brought to a close by the Rev. A. Reid pronouncing the benediction. The anniversary soiree of the Franklin Road Primitive Methodist Sunday-school, held on the 13th April, was well attended. An excellent tea was provided, accompanied by music, speaking, and singing. The col lections at the anniversary services realised £•13. On the evening of the 14th the children were treated to a tea and magic lantern entertainment, exhibited and ex plained by the Superintendent, Mr R. H. Chester. At the Sunday-school meeting a satisfactory report was presented, showing that a now organ for £27 had been purchased, that in addition to an increasing library, a young men's Bible-class had been openedby Mr Horsley, witli every prospect of success. The numbers of scholars on books were 79 boys and 93 girls : total, 172 ; being an in crease of 14 on the list of the previous year; teachers, 14; income, £65. 3s Hid; dis bursements, £C 0 os4d'; credit balance, £5 3s 7id ; library, 240 volumes of religious and instructive books.

The premises in Queen-street which have just been vneatod by Milne and Ohoyce were opened on April Ist by the la-ly promoters ot the re cent St. Benedict's Bazaar, tho object being to dispose of tho surplus goods remaining on hand from the bazaar. Throe o'clock waa the hour announced for the opening, but at that ; time the preparations were not very far ad vanced, and it wasconsid srably later before the articles were arranged for sale. There are. in ail four stalls in tho portion of the building, which has been used as a shop, whilo refreshments will bo dispensed at the rear, and tho upper floor will probably bo uti lised as a promenade The stalls will be pre sided over as follows:—No. 1, Newton East: Mesdames Boylan, McDonald and Misses Ste venson and Outhwaits. No. 2, Newton West: Mesdames Brophy, Larkin, Hasan, andMahon. No. 3, Parnell: Mesdames O'Brien a&d O'Sulli van, and Misses Lorrigan and Field. No. 4. City • Mesdames Lynch, Dignan, Connolly, and Miss Sheehan. Refreshment stall: Mrs and Miss O'Snllivan. There is a large variety of fancy goods, plain and fancy work, etc., on hand, and it is expected that if these goods are disposed of at fair prices between £100 and £500 will bo realised. The bazaar will be open tonight, and each evening during the week.

The soiree in connection with the Pitt street Wosleyan Sun lav-school anniversary was held on the evening of April 15, in the Pitt-street Schoolroom, and the public meeting in the church. The tea was all that could be well desired, and the com pany large. The trays were supplied and presided over by the following ladies :— Mesdames Gunson, Markham, Wilson, Froudo, Woodham, Prosser, and Misses Smith, Shorland, Crago, Spence, Davis, Phillips, Blackburn, Grubb, and Dare. At the public gathering afterwards, the Rev. A. Reid openedthe proceedings, and introduced the Chairman of the meeting, MrK. Arthur. Mr Thomas Buddie (Superintendent) gave a short verbal report of the school's doings during the year. Ho said there wero 493 books in tho library. There was an average attendance of scholars of—morn ing, 06; afternoon, 280 ; officers and teachers, 45. There wero 342 members of the Band of Hope. The school had 130 exhibits in the recent Exhibition and car ried off 34 prizes. They had added a new and expensive banner, and had spent i2O on books. The balance-sheet, read by Mr E J White, showed: Receipts, £134 ss; expenditure, £165 11s Id during the year. The annual soiree and meeting ot the Presbyterians of Papakura, Druvy, and Wairoa (South), were lield on April 10th, in Papakura Church, and were largely at tended. Tea was provided by Mrs Norris and Mrs Willis. Two bachelors tables were well laden with good things, and pre sided over by Mr R. White and Mr F. McClymont. The Rev. Thos. Nome pre sided, and opened the meoting. Prayer was offered by the Rev. John Macky. Mr Norrie spoke of the position and prospects of tho church, which were very encourag ing. Mr James Muir read the 28th annual report with minute particulars of the work done during the paßt year. Tho general abstract of accounts showed sustentation fund, £234 18s lOd ; building fund, £35 10s 3d; Sabbath-school fund, £14 11s 2d; schemes of tho Church and Day spring fund, £17 0s Id; periodicals an,d in cidental expenses, £15 17s 8d: total, 6317 ISs. On the motion of Mr S. H. Reid, seconded by Mr J. B. Young, these docu ments were adopted. Tho following gentle men wore elected to office:—Mr James Muir, general secretary ;Mr James Bell, general treasurer; Messrs S. H. Reid and C. Wool lams, auditors. An excellent musical and literary programme was then presented and satisfactorily realised. At a social gathering of the Devonport Wesleyan Church held on Tueiid.ay. April let, Mr Edward Bartley was presented with a handsome silver-mounted baton, »n recognition of, his valuable services as chow master for some considerable time past, he being about to retire frem that position, I owing to the acceptance of a similar office

;in tlio Anglican Church. Mr Alfred Bart ley was also presented with .1 useful escri toire, and Miss Potter, organist, with a silver salver and tea service. Mr Edward Bartley, on behalf of himself and the other recipients of favour, thanked the congregation for their gifts, and for the kindness which they had always manifested. Tho Rev. G. W. Spence was presented with a handsomely-bound copy "of Farrar'a "Life of Christ" by the trustees, in recognition of the earnest and energetic manner in which he had dis charged the duties devolving upon him during the past two years ; and Mr Cox, on behalf of the Sunday-school teachers, pre sented him with two theological works, and thanked the rev. gentleman for the great interest he had taken both in the Sunday-school and Band of Hope. The Rev. Mr Spence returned thanks,and stated that the two years he had spent with the congregation were the happiest of his life. Addresses were delivered by Messrs Hen derson, Green, Tanfield, Hampson, and Hooker, and several musical selections were also rendered during the evening. On Tuesday, April 1, Mr Evans, tho minister of St. John the Baptist, took a final farowell of the residents with a view of taking charge of tho Thainos district, Sixteen volumes of books were presented as a token of esteem, and more will be added from funds which camo in at a late hour. Mr Glenny, as warden, presented tho books, and spoke of his two years' close work with Mr Evans, which was responded to, and illustrated how those two men had worked together through trying occasions, and brought tho church work up to an im proved standard. Mr Hammond urgod tho people to take in their position, " A fold parting with their shepherd," who had been led to tho Great Shepherd to carry on God's work, and thus prove to Mr Evans that he had not worKed in vain. Mr Bates presided, and appropriate music interspersed the speeches. Mr Thompson thanked Mr Bates for his attendance. Amongst the books were Haydn's Dictionary of Dates, Light foot's works, Geekie's "Life of Christ " and " Works on the New Testament," Cassell's Biographical Dictionary, Beeton's Dic tionary, Trench on " The Parables," Farrar's "Early Days of Church Work," etc. Mr Evans has worked for several years the various stations ranging from Northcote to the Wainui, and the various congregations have contributed to tho present; and in order to make the gift general, the sub scriptions were limited to 2s 6d each person. He lias spent his starting point at North cote, having first come amongst the settlers as a student of St. John's College, and thus has grown with the feelings of the place and the people, which will ever make Northcote dear to his memory and heart. He has taken the responsibilities of a married position, and hi 3 first little one has been born in the dis trict. He carries the good wishes of his people, and they trust he will bo as valu able to the Thames people as he has been amongst them, urging them on to lives of earnestness and good works.

There was a large attendance at the soiree on April 8 to commemorate the anniver sary of the Beresford-street Congregational Church. Tea was provided in the adjacent hall, the tables being presided over by the following ladies: — Mesdames Newman, Lyon, Steadman, Johnson, Lowe, and Davis, Misses Hoskins, Huckett, Hamer, Keep, Warner, Johnson, Fisher, Pearce, and Potter. One of the tables was provided by the bachelors of the congregation. Rev. J. Robertson, pastor, presided at tbe public meeting held in the church subsequently. The Snnual report.read byMrMilne.showed thattho church has n0w409 members. There lias been a large increase of members during the year—the largest for many years past. The Sunday-school is crowded,and increased accommodation is urgently required^ Class rooms are to bo added to the church, and an organ procured. The choir has undertaken to raise the price of the organ—Csoo. The cost of the improvements will be about £1,300. A Sunday-school has been started at Mount Eden. The evangelistic and Sunday-school work being done at Newton, and that at Maungaturoto by the Rev. A. Riding, has been very satisfactory. The receipts for the year were £1,185, and the disbursements, £1,118. The re ports were duly received. Rev. Thomas Hamer, founder of the Congregational Church in this city, then presented Messrs W. C. Daldy and S. J. Edmonds with a testimonial from the minister and deacons on behalf of the congregation on the occasion of their retirement from the positions of deacons. In making the presentation, the rev. gentleman said that it was now thirty-two years since the Church was started, and both Mr Daldy and Mr Edmonds had been con nected with it nearly all that time. Both gentlemen replied briefly. During the evening a number of musical selections were rendered by the choir, under tbe direction of Mr Hooten, while addresses were delivered by Rev. H. J. Miller (Onehunga), Rev. J. S. Hill, and Rev. T. Spurgeon. The gathering concluded with the benediction.

The handsome and commodious hall erected in Albert-street for the uee of the Salvation Army was formally opened on Good Friday, April 11, Major Pollard and other officers of the Army had arrived from tha South to take part in the proceedings. The first service took place at seven in the. morning, and this was followed by service at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The two latter were so crowded that there was scarcely standing room. These services were conducted by Major and Mrs Pollard, Staff-Captain Wright, Captain and Mrs Graham, Captain Francis, and Captain Patrick, The proceedings were very orderly. During the course of the day the soldiers paraded the streets of the city, the new band under the conductor- ship of Mr Little (late of the C ty Band) being a feature of the display. In the even ing a teameeting took place in St. James's Hall. The attendance was so large that the tea drinkers had to be ac commodated in, four relays. After a thorough fortification of.the inner man. A general move was made to the new Bar racks, and this became so full that hun dreds were compelled to remain standing. The crowd was great, ans the h,eat so op pressive that two females fainted. Ad dresses were delivered by Major and Mrs Pollard, Captain Wright, Mr F. A, White, the Rev. Mr Potter> Mr Thomas (American evangelist), Mr Smith read a re port of the building fund, which showed that the price of the building was £2,600. £1,000 had already been collected, and of the balance it was proposed to raise £1,300 by mortgage and £200 by collec tions. "Canaries" were distributed amongst the audience, and a considerable amount was collected in this manner. The proceedings were successful in the highest degree. A description of the barracks has already appeared in these columns, but at the present time, the recapitulation of a few particulars concerning it will not be uninteresting. The building has a frontage of 47 feet to Albert-str&et, by n depth of 104 feet. The accommodation comprises a large assembly-room (99 feet by 43 feet 6 inche?), entered from a vesti bule (27 feet by 7 feetyby three doorways, a central door\vaj (6 fce^ in. width), and two side doorways (each 5 feet in width). At one end of this assembly-room are tho apartments far the use of the ohiof and sub ordinate offloors, which are each ]ofeot3 inches by 8 feot. At the other end are cloak and retiring rooms, on opposito sidesl, for males and females, and also a; dwarf gallery and platform to seat two hundred persons. There is also a kitchen for the purpose of making preparations foy teat meetings, etc. The building }a well yen. tilated and lighted, and, from an archi tectural point of view, is quite an ornament to the city.

A publio mooting for the purpose of con sidering steps to be taken for the formation of a Young Women's Christian Association was held on April 18, at the Y.M..C..A'. Rooms.' There was a very meagre attend ance. The Hon. Colonel Hanltain, who was voted to the chair, called on the Rev. J. S. Hill to explain the objects of the pro posed Association. The Rev. Mr Hill pre faced hia remarks by apologising for the absence of convener of the meeting, Mr W. Rattray, in consequence of indisposi tion. He then proceeded to state that the prime object of such an Association as that which it was proposed to form was the establishment of a link of sympathy between young women of all classes for the promotion of their uccial, moral, and spiritual welfa.ro. The means suggested for th,e promotion of this object-was—(l) the provision oi a refresh men^ opd read^ng-roota, Since the wind ing up of the Young Women's Institute there was no aujtahle place in which young women employed about the town could procure refreshment, and they were now frequently compelled to eat their luncheon in the street. (2) The holding ol occa sional social gatherings. (3) Assisting those out of employment to procure suit able situations, jjo mentioned that 65 single girls had recently arrived in this port, and of these ,30 were altogether friendless. He was sorry to say that some of these girls had commenced life here in a manner that would not be desirable to the communHy. Some very painful things had come under his notice that day. He might cay that It was also proposed to establish a savings bank for young women. (4) The formation of singing and reading Classes. (5) The formation of a Bible class.

(G) The providing of a home for young women when the funds of the association would admit of it. He then read the rules. It was then proposed that the association be composed of associates who would subscribe 10s per annum, and of members subscribing Gs per annum, or 6d per month. The affair would be managed by a president, vice pre.-ident, lion, treasurer, hon. secretary, and a council of ten members, of which one half would be ladies. —Mr Coupland proposed "That a Young Women's Christian Association be formed. 1' Mr Ewington, in seconding the motion pro forma, did not wish to commit himself without first knowing more about the Association. Was such an Association necessary ? Was there any reason to ap prehend that a reflection was cast upon tho various Church organisations, implying that they were negligent in this respect ? He thought a feeling was growing up that the frequent attendance at meetings by young women had the effect of withdrawing them from the home circlo and their house hold duties. Ho observed that there was no clergyman present except the Rev J. S. Hill. The meeting was small. Was there any good reason for thinking that this pro posal would bo more successful than the institution which had just come to grief? Mr Hill having replied to Mr Ewington tho motion was carried and the following ladies were elected a pro visional committee to form the proposed association :—Miss Judd (convener), Mrs McCosh Clark, Mrs Potter Clark, Mis Konderdine, Mrs Shirley Hill, Miss Leach man, with power to add to their number. Several ladies gave in their names as asso ciates.

Tho anniversary of the Wellesley-street Baptist Sunday-school was celobrated on April 22 by a soiree. Tea was provided in the school-room by the following ladies :— Mrs Dewar, Misses Bell, S. Cooper, A. Dewar, Gaze (3), Hewlett, Heron, Long more, Matthews, Pearson (2), Parsons, and Young. The subsequent public meeting in the chapel was presided over by Rev. Thomas Spurgeon. From the annual roport submitted by Mr W. Baker, Secretary, it ap peared that 73 new scholars had joined during the year, leaving the present total at 517, under the charge of 47 teachers, nine of whom had been added during the year. Twenty scholars had joined the Church within the twelve months; The young women's Bible class, under the conductor ship of Miss Cooper, has a membership of 39, and the young men's Bible class, under Mr E. Bell, a membership of 34, while tho infant class, under Mr C. H. Brown, num bers 170. The school missionary boxes con tained for the year £34 7s lOd, as against £28 2s last year, half of this amount being devoted to general school funds, and the rest handed over to the Maori mission. The school gave also a monthly collection to tho Tabernacle Building Fund, which amounted for the year to £10 (is 2d, and made a pre sent of a Rob Roy canoe to the Rev. Mr Fairbrother for his Maori mission, at a cost of £9 2s. Tho Treasurer (Mr Rountree) read the financial statement, which showed the year's receipts to be £212 6s lljd, which was nearly equalised by expenditure, tho balance in hand being £1 19s Bd. Ad dresses were delivered by Mr Rountroe, Revs. Woolley, Fairbrother, Macfarlane, and Mr Hunter, and a vote of'thanks was passed to Mr Charles Blomfield for his services in the musical training of the scholars.

The anniversary of the Parnell Wesleyan Sunday-school was celebrated on April 22 by a soiree and public gathering. Tea was served in the school-room, and the after meeting was held in the church, Mr A. Laybourn presiding. In his opening remarks, the Chairman referred to the diffi culties experienced and overcome in tho enlargement of the church and erection of the school-room, and concluded by giving some useful advico to the teachers. Tlio annual report, which was read by tho Secretary (Mr Withoford), stated' that the number of scholars was 160—72 boys and 88 girls, an increase of 8 on last year, and the number of teachers was 17. Receipts for the past year had been very small, but by economy they had succeeded in keeping the expenditure down. They had been unable, however, to add to the library, but hoped to do so this year. In July last tho attendance of teachers at the morning classes was so small that they were discontinued until November, when they were taken up by Mr Whiteford, who also inaugurated a children's service, held in the Oddfellows' Hall. They deplored tho loss of the late Superintendent, but Mr Schofield filled his ]ilace, Tho Band of Hope was progressing well under Mr Leßoy, the right man in the right place, and the attendance was increasing. Tho report was adopted, after which Mr Schofield (Superintendent) addressed tho meeting, and in cqurse of a few ap propriate remarks invited- all who took an interest in the Sunday-school to come for ward and. assist those already engaged, in the good work. Other addresses were given by clergymen, and the meeting'closed with, prayer. :' ' : '

EDUCATIONAL.

Theee are 17,760 children at public schools in Otago. Mr R. Hobbs was re-elected Chairman of the Board of Education on April 4. Professor Shaiid, Dunedin, has been re-elected Chairman of the Board of Educa tion.

Mr John Inglis has been re elected Chair man of tho Education Board, North Canter bury. . , It has been resolved not to award the. Civil Servico Literary Prize for 1883, as none of the three papers sent in are deemed worthy.

Dr., C. t Aoki, of the Tsukuba, has pre sented to tho Auckland Museum several books of Japanese engravings, atlases, and specimens of the copper and paper money of his interesting country.

Through the kind oißcesof His Excellency Sir Wm. Jervoia, the Auckland University Collego Council have secured the use of Admiralty House for tho College. The Governor having telegraphed to Commodore Erskine and learnt that ne had no objection to the proposal, the building is handed over for the use of the College Council' until re quired by the Government...

University College Council.

A special meeting oi the above. Council • f was held on the Ist April, there being pre- " - sent: Colonel tf aultain (in the chair), Mr '& Justice Gillies, Mr Hcsketh, Dr Campbell, ' ? Rev, A. Reid, Rev. D. Bruce, and Pro- z fessors Brown and Thomas. ~.'■. ~ After Eome preliminary business lad been ' gone through, the Chairman read the fok j lowing letter, which had been received frori : f ■ Mr Justice Gillies, and the substance of < which was reported in our last issue, viz. :-f I ■? Rocklanfe Epsom, Auckland, 29th Marohk 1 4 1884. To the Council of tho Auckland Univnri sity CaUege 4 Gentlemen.—Forsome time before I her death, niy late wife and myself had nndoi I i our consideration the perpetuation of the I ' memory of her uncle, the late Dr. Andrew Sin- I ! clair,H.N.,whodidßQßinehfornaturalßclence t - ;in the early days of tho colony. Wehadnotquitoi I fixed ob the best way 01 commemorating; him1.-! when by her untimely death devolved upon ineA V • thodutyofcarryinßlntoeflfcotherwishca. From* \ 1 herunclo she inherited certain properties which \ \ '■ I hare sold. 1 think 1 shall bo carrying out'her \ 1 wiahos, as well as my own desire, by aevotine \ I: the prpcceds,ainoutiUng to £3,000. to the foimdiu ■ I tipn of two scholarships for uqot scholars in th» US Auckland University College, upon tho follow- ing conditions, subject to pic. approval of tha -1 1. Each scholarship shall ontltle tlio holder to £ 100 per annum tenable lor three years, snbient to the flowing conditions :-Any surpTus Sf unapplied mcomo to bo accumulated and applied cither in founding further soholarshins or V way of prizes to. encourage studentsas the Council may from time to time determfieT 2. Tlie two scholarshipg hereby founded shaH be called respect ively, « The Sinclair" and " Th» Gillies" scholarships, in memory of Dr. Andrew Sinclair and of my late wife. "*-*nvtov 3. These scholarshipsßhallbe open for pom. petition to all youths, male or famale borTto —&> the^olony, who, at the time of competing sMl* be between the ages ofl6 and 20 yeSrs^Sd whS . sha.Usatisfy tho Council that neither they nor ' ' UieirnarenUor guardians are able to proven- I nsry Vuid: ty °dUCaUOn for thCm ""^pVct •4, The compeUUre examination of candf" " dates for these scholarships shall bo in Batumi science only, including mathomatics,but exclnd ing classics philosophy, and- thcofogy halanv shape, and shall bo conducted by the profess^S of fee Auckland. University CoUcge f?S ' timel berns of mathemaUcs, chomistor mechanics, bjo ogy, KooloKy, natural htetory* " botany, electricity, ana allied subjects. OJT« ' 0. Spieeial wefeht shall bo given by tho •»• aminera to attainments and capacity in imlami - history and botany for the Sin<£b7 ,sVhoUrsWn I and in chemistry, biology, and ole Sty for. the Gillies scholarship. ™»m ™ t (L The examiners shall bo entitled to certify tm the Council that no sufficiently QuaKcand* date has appeared, whereupon tSe Councilinay fflSmiefiss^ tha B<*otarshii> ssm"as 7. The holder of eaoh scholarship shaU be en titled to payment of a proportioaato amount of his scholarship at the end of each collegiata '' term o* production of a certificate from the i professors under whom he has studied of hto rtiliKcnt att.-ndance and satisfactory progress Si his studies. Failing sudi certiflcato or M«U adverse report of tho profes^rSoC^SS : may to. resoluUon, cancel and forfeinae scholarship. 8. The Council shall have ample power to make regulations for carrying inta effict ftom time to.tone, the wishes here&befora expressed of the founder, speoiali^egardbeinßhaiPto^ttt last paragraph of condition NoTSL^.^r 9. Conditions two, three, four, ana-fiVo ahull heunalterable: the others shaUb^rt^ltothS discretion of the Council. UponSomlh^So that yon have accepted the abowpnmoSa) r shall placo the aum of eiOOO, at yon? dtawat'os ; you may direct, I trusTthat ysu wiUTw^out agar. fake steps to TOtkeltMnVUvoiStik j afflord intending students af the Coffifefthft earliest poaslblo opportanUy of av&ilinKthem-

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, SATURDAY, APRIL 2(5, 1884

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