SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE

Hum wirni! .This Evening,s.2s . HK-II WATER Vro-monow Morning, 0.09 Hi' MsET.— This l.veriint_. 519 B UNRISE.-To-morrow Morning. 6.-8 MO ■,•>•_< AG-C-New Mo-m, _lill-.iS.3i am.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY. Penguin, s.s., Cromarty, from Fiji ~-.„_ Southern CroiS, s.s.. Hutchinson, from AY han garei

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVENING. Macgregor, s.s.. Crawford; for Whangarei Mariner, sch„ Queen, for Russell Saucy Kate, sch., Lewis, for Whangarei

TO DAY. Ocean, a eh., Savage, for Whangarei

Vessels Expected.

I.ovDON.-British King, s.s., sailed March 15; Thomas Russell. 8.5.. December 28; Alastor, barque, W.T.G.F.. January 3; Deva, barque, N S I'D.. January 21; Crusader, ship, February ,6; i-aira, barque, April 9; Glenrosa and Glance, °Nsw YORK.—Claribol, barque (via Welling ton), December II; Nettle (via Wellington) and Irene (via Dunedim. loading. J _VA.—Manhegan. barque. Balled March 31; Maroon, barque, and Thames, barque, to follow. ' "China.—Androklas, barque, early. ~,._, Australia.—Naiad, brig, and Annabel], brig, from Newcastle; Clansman, brigantine, from Southern PORTS.—Camlile, brigantine, from Dunedin ; Marion, from Oamaru.

IMPORTS.

Per Ponghin from Lovuka—l,B4o bunches bananas, 71 bags cocoanuts, 198 bags cocoanuts, 11 casos oranges, 150 bales fibre, 37 bags pea nuti. 11 hides, 5 bunc'loi _hoop3kins. From Suva ■ 129 bunches bananas, 21 crates oranges. The Pengnin also brings a quantity of fruit for transhipment to Southern ports.

Per Wairarapa, from Melbourne — 280 bags rice, 18 bags pepper, M bags tapioca, 8 barrels coffee. 353 packages tea, 900 packages Bugar. 80 bales hemp, 10 hhds brandy, 07 packages sundries. From Bluff: 130 (sacks oats. From Dunedin: 330 sac-S oatmeal. 237 cases, 14 pkgs beer 25 drums, 201 buniil. s flsh plates. 31 pack ages luggage, 12 bars iron, 11 trusses. From Lyttelton: 20 cases, 15 sacks malt. From Wel lington: 100 boxes candles. 506 pieces timber, 4 telegraph poles, 8 caso3 ginger ale, 51 cases, 3 casks, 10 kegs.

Outwards Coastwise.—Coralle, for Mer cury Bay, in ballast

The s.s. Penguin leaves for Lyttelton this evening.

Tho brigantine Peerless entered outwards at tho Customs to-day for New York,

The schooner Torea has entered outwards at tho Customs for Suwarrow.

The barqueLoongana will kayo for Newcastle direct about Saturday noxt.

The s.s. Southern Cross for Gisbornc, and s.s. Penguin for Lyttelton, will leave this evening.

From this port the ship Brenhilda proceeds to Lyttelton, where sho is to receive a full cargo for London.

Capt. W. Lamb, late of thi! Clansman, has been appointed master of tho schooner Torea in place of Capt. Robinson, who has been ill for sovoral days, and is still unable to proceed with tho vessel, which is to leave Suwarrow at an early date.

Tho s s. Southern Cross arrived at noon to day left Napier on Sunday morning at 9 a.m., with 1,420 sheep for Whangarei, arrived at Whangarei at noon yesterday, discharged and loft at 3 a.m. to-day, arriving hero as aboyo. She brings neither passengers nor cargo for this port The Southern Cross leavos for Gisbornc this evening.

Tho steamship British King, which left Lon don for tiis port on March 15. brings In addition to Government emigrants (a list of whoso names we bavo already given) the following second dais passengers.—D. Morton, F. A. Hurry. Jlrf Crow and family 13). G. P Gardner. E.J. Dallev. Mr and Mrs Jones and 3 children, Mr P. Argall. Mr W. Napier, Mrs H, Pool, MrH. Strangways.

The s.s Wairarapa will leave for Sydney via Russell at about 5 o'clock this uvoalng, with the following passengers j-For Sydney: Misses Cousins, Franklin, Moody, Collins, Pagan (2). Elder, Cruickshank, Mr and Mrs Robinson. Mr Stretton and Miss Stretton, Mrs and Miss Best and 2 children. Mrs McMillan and 3 children, Mr and Mrs Rest, Mr and Mrs Roberts, Mr and Mrs Dowan, Mr and Mrs Bortio and family, Mr and Mrs Rowbottom, Mr and Mrs Kennedy and tho Misses Kennedy, Mcsdaraes Ashwoll and Gillespie, Messrs Eldor. Robert Millar, Cox, Harkcr, Williams, Cox hoad Frocman, Franklyn, Colbourne, Mason, Alwln T. Ivo, Jobson, Nairn, Lancaster, Beard, Fletoher, Fereusspn. Bennett, Cedeng ton Kennedy. Jones, Faulknor, Plidjer, Cruick shank, Lewis. Waterston, Hunter, R. Love, Bloom. Greonholgh, Jos. Hart Krui, Chester, and Graham. For Russell: Mr and Mrs Fair burn Mrs Collins, Miss Fairbourne, Messrs Collins (2).

ARRIVAL OF THE PENGUIN.

The s.s. Penguin arrived from Fiji at 5-a.m. to-day. Wo aro Indebted to Mr John Waldio, nursor. for press parcels, etc.. and the follow ing »oport:-Took departure from Queen's Wharf, Levnkn, at 6 a.m. on 18th. Arrived at Suva at 11 a.m. Sailed at 3 p.m. and arrived at Navua at 4.35 pm. Left again at 6.30 p.m. Passed Island of Mbenga at 7.10 p.K. Breasted Mount Washington. Island of Kandavu at 11.10 am. same date, sighted Moko Hinou light at fl 30 p m. on 22nd, and arrived at Auokland at 5.5 a.m. on 23rd. Experienced light N.E. winds and heavy swell till noon of 19th, light S.E. trades till 20th, strong E.S.E. winds and heavy sea till ..iirningof 22nd. light southerly winds and smooth sea till arrival. Passengers, saloon: -I&om I.evuka-Mr and Miss Morrison, Miss C CUm-i-, Klein Mnllr -trTirtr 11— r-i~j, Fulton liostloy. From Suva—Mr and Mrs Page Mr and Mrs Thomson, Mr R. Watson, Mr Jno Murohio. From Navua—Mr MoKnight. Steerage: From Lovuka — Mossrs Reynolds, Hogland. Bartlett, Marriott, Mrs Marriott and child. From Suva—Messre J. Fraser. Musker, R. Fraser, McClusky, Leo, Sjence, Taylor, Haydon. Johnson, Geo. geson. Miss Mowbray, Mrs McGillivray and child, one Fijian.

PORT OP ONEHUNGA.

The following passengers left for Southorn ports by the Hawea yestesday .'—Messrs B. J Ensam, W. Simons. McWhiney. J. McErath, Biackett, Mr and Mrs Eise, child, and infant, Mr and Mrs Henderson. Messrs Bishop, Petty, Mynott, Craigmill. T. W. Franklyn. Brook field, Mrs Charlton, Misses Ansell, Mason.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Sydney, April 22.—Sailed, this afternoon: Wakatipu, for Wellington. London, April 21.—Arrived : The ship Wake field, from Lyttelton (January 23).

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Star Office, this day. Messrs Cochrane and Son sold at their auction mart to-day 17 acres at Horotui, Wa! knto, for £11, and 46 acres In the same parish for £155; 1 i-allotmcnt In Newcastle township for £12 10s. The lease of premises in Shortland street, as occupied by Murchie, was re-leased at a yearly rental of £160; 37 tramway shares (10s per tharo paid up) at 5s por sharo, and a wooden houso for removal, on the Tamaki Road, for £5. Tho other properties offered not realising owners' prices wore hold over for private sale. Messrs B. Tonk3 and Co. hold a salo Of Hobart apple. and pears at their mart to-day. The sale was largely attended and tlio prices ranged from 2s 6d to 9s 6d per ease.

Our Athlete's Verdict.

BICYCLING.

John Rolfe, Esq., champion bloyollst of Eng land and Australia, who at present la open to run a long-distance race with any bicyoust for tho championship of the world, gives his per sonal oxperience of the valuable properties of St Jacob's Oil, as used By him in his recent contest with Jno. Watson for the championship of Australia

268, Elizabeth-street North, Melbourne, Victoria, 23rd November, 1883.

To the Editor Aucklawd Evenino Star.

Dear Sir,—l -,oslre to add my cheerful endorse ment of the good effeots I havo at all times re c.ivcd from tho use of St Jacob's Oil when in active training and racing. During my recent 0 days' contest hold in the Melbourne Exhibi tion Building for £500 and the ohampionship,of the Australian and adjacent colonies, it was my boon companion. I continually used it before and after each day's performance, and tho re sult, simply astonished me. After riding for 8 con. ceutive hours eaoh day, viz., from half-past 2 until half-past 10, my limbs would become sore and stiff from over-exertion, but after being well-rubbed with the oil all muscular pain immediately vanished and I felt as fresh atr-e ver. As proof posltive.af tor the contest was over, I rode 10J miles against time before a pub lic audionco and accomplished it in 6 hours 11 n: In 111 os 45} seconds. Another application of St Jucob's Oil was made, and it removed all feel ings of fatigue and I felt perfectly fit for another race. Am positive it aided me to win the match, and I shall never enter a similar contest without a bicycle and St Jacob's OIL I strongly advise all "wheelmen" and other athletes to give it a trial, and feel fully con vinced their experiences will compare favour ably with my own. I remain, dear. Sir, Ybura truly, John Rols. c. "" CRICKET. DAVID SCOTT, Esq., of the firm ot Messrs Boyle and Scott, Cricket and Football Depot, Melbourne, Victoria.—" St Jacob's Oil re lieved meat once of pain, I commend It to all footballers and cricketers," AQUATICS. JRI. WARDTRICKETT. Esq., one of the world's groatest oarsmen.—" I have found St Jacob B , i. ii a sure and certain cure."

GENUINENESS GUARANTEED.

ST. JACOB'S OIL CONQUERS PAIN.

IT CURES RHEUMATISM, NEURALGIA, HEADACHE, TOOTHACHE, BACK ACHE. AND ALL SIMILAR AILMENTS.

A cash reward of £100 will bo paid by the CH ARLKS A. VOGELER COMPANY OF BAL TIMORE, MARYLAND, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Proprietors of St Jacob's OH, or by their accredited local representatives, to any person producing proof to the effect that the testimonials published by them in regard to ft t Jacob s Oil are not strictly genuine. '•- j -

Wholes alb Depot : M. LEVY AND COMPANY. AOO-H-AirD.

Chief Post-Office Auckland.

Mails will Closb as under.—

THIB DAT.

Per Wairarapa, as follows :— For Kussoll, Kawakawa, China, and Japan, Australian Colonies and Unitod Kingdom, via Huez and Brindisi, for lettors, otc. specially i.,i prepaid and addressed, at 4 p.m. Monoy orders, for Australia only, at 3 p.m. IT or registered letters and nowspapors at

Lato letters for Sydnoy and Molbourno only at 4.20 p.m. For Gisborno, por Southorn Cross, at 4 p.m. Kor Whangarei Heads, Whangaroi, Kamo, and Mangapai, per Waitaki. at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Annie Milbank at 5.80 p.m. Fo:4 Lyttelton. Canterbury, and Otugo, por l'onguln, at 5 p.m. TIIURBDAY. 21th Inst

For Wniwera, To Kapa, Cralgiebum, Wart worth, otc, per Res* Casey, at 10 a.m. For Waitara. etc.. per Argyle, at It a.m.

Per B.S. To Anau as follows :— For India. China. Japan, Mediterranean Ports, and Continent of Europe, at 10 a.m. For Gisborno, Napier, Southern Porta. Aus tralian Colonies and United Kingdom, via Brindisi, for letters. Sec, specially so prepaid

and addressed, at 11 a.n,i. For money orders, registered lottors and news papers, at 10 a.m. Late letters till 11.29 a.m. For Thames, por Rotomahana. at 11.30 a. m. For Tanranna. Ohinomutu, and (Jpottkt, per

Wellington, at 5 p.m. For Whangaroi Hoods, Kamo, Whongarol, and Mangapai, por Rowona, at 5 p.m. For Mauffawai and Kuiwaka, per Ruby, at 5 p.m.

Friday, 25th inst. For Waitara. etc., per Lalla Rookh, at 8 a.m. • For Cowcs and Coromandel, per Coromandel, at 1 30 p.m. Saturday, 26th inst. For Sydney Island, per Explorer, at 1 p.m. TcesdaT. 28th Inst. Per s.s. Australia, as follows :— For Sandwich Islands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Kuropo. at 1 p.m. For money orders, registered letters and newspapers, at 11.SO a.m. Late letter., bearing an extra fee of six pence In addition to tlib postage, will be received by tho Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the tlmo of sailing. This mall will be duo in London on Sat urday, Juno 7,1884.

The s.B. Tongariro will leave Lyttelton for London, via Rio de Janloro. on Saturday, 3rd May. Expected p'assago from 10 to 42 dajs. S. B. BISS. Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-offlco. Auokland.

Meetings. Entertainments, Etc.

April 23, 188J,

Abbott's Opera Houso— " Youth," a spectacu lar Drama, 7.15 p.m.

Waltemata Hotel — Meeting of Master Mariners, 8 p.m

Theatre Royal—Grand Concert for Benefit of Mine. Duquosno, 8 p.m. Temperance Hall—N.Z.O. Good Templars, Opon Lodge Meeting and Entertainment, » p.m.

Mrs Parker's Art Union Drawing—Grey-st, 7 p.m.

Masonic Hall, Princes-stroet—Professor Ber nard's Dancing Class, 7.30 p.m.

liritiah Hotel—Qonerol Meeting of Lumpers' Union, 7.30 p.m. Eden Hall-Lccturo by Ror. G. B. Munro, 7.30 pin.

Births.

WALKER.-On tbe 22nd April, at Hobßon's Park, Parnoll, Mrs A. J. Walkor of a daugh tor. Both doing well.—Otago papers please copy.

Deaths.

DOWNING.-On the 22nd of April, nt tho resi dence of her son. Chapel-street, Auckland, Honora, widow of Thomas Downing, lato of Firmoy County, Cork, Ireland; aged, 75 years.

Tho funeral will leave tho roßldonco to-mor row, at 3 p.m. Friends are respectfully In vited to attend.

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

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, 1881.

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

The Attorney-Ooneral has amoro indulgent constituency than the Minister of Lands, and is on happier terms with them; his vote of confidence from those of the electors who reside in the great seaport of Marl borough province was a safe thing. The speech itself, as we receive it from tho Press Association, seems to be also n Btife speech. Mr Conolly declines to commit himself to any of tho doctrinaire ' notions of his colleagues ; ho likes to follow the good old beaten track; dees not believe in treating land as different from any other kind of property ; and remains generally true to the principles on which the Hall Government took office, but which have been considerably departed from by the leading members of the present Cabinot if the Premier speaks its mind. Mr Conolly also differs from his colleagues on the education question—he is a secu larist of the non-compromising order. His speech, we take it, is offered to the Con servative supporters of the party as an anti dote to Major Atkinson's revolutionary pro gramme, andhisopinions probably represent more truly the real intentions of the Ministry than the theories of his political chief. It is one of the happy arrangements of the present Government that they spread a net fitted to catch all fish. Though its members are at variance on many important quest-ens, they are completely at one on the general policy of keeping in office, and the utter incompetence and insular selfishness of thp Opposition leaders, and their manifest efforts to create a party inimical to North Island interests, will assist the Ministry very materially in accomplishing that most essential part of their programme The one great stumbling block in their path is the resumption of the pre-emptive right over Crown lands, to which Mr Conolly, avowedly a Free trader in principle, has given his adhesion. Unless the Government, in sub mitting this proposal, make it contingent upon a vote of a million sterling for ac quiring native lands on behalf of the Crown, the measure drawn by Crown Law officers prohibiting free sale should be en titled "A Bill to Look-up the North Island." That must be its effect, and even with the chance o£ thereby committing themselves to the tender mercies of Mr Montgomery, the Nprth Island members will unanimously cast in their votes with the " Noes." If tlie desire of the Ci'owh to lock up these lands against pijvato purchase is backed by a substantial vote for their acquisition on bohalf of the public, the practicability of resuming a system which never ought to have been abandoned i may bear discussing. ""

Perhaps tho most interesting part of Mr Conolly's address is that in which ho breathes his misgivings with regard to the success of the now Bankruptcy Bill, This measure is tho one great achievement of his Minis terial life. Tho Bill wa3 revised with tho very greatest care by a committee represent ing w-nat is believed to be the commercial wisdom of the House, and wns shepherded by Mr Conolly with parental fondness. No wonder that the possibility of failure should awaken in his mind doubts of tho utility of bankruptcy legislation of any kind. His rogrot at the failure of tho Government to carry through the Married Women's Pro perty Protection Act, the Act for Prevent ing Restriction on the Alienation of Land will be very widely shared. It is a disgrace to the New Zealand legislature that the colony has lingered so long behind England in extending tho protection of the law to the property of the sex least able to defend itself against injustice.

Hospital Affairs.

FREQUENT complaints have reached us of the harsh bearing of a rule enforced at the District Hospital against relatives or friends being allowed to visit patients except at fixed hours. People come long distances from the country to soo friends who may bo dangerously ill, and find that beonuso of a enst-iron regulation, they must wait in Auckland all night or forego the melancholy pleasure they had in anticipation. Again, patients may bo dying, but if they do not die at tho proscribed hours thoir relations or friends arc debarred from being present at tho closing sceno. An instance which comes within tho latter category was brought undor the notice of the Hospital Com mittee on Monday last by Mr P. A. Philips, who detailed tho circumstances under which a young stranger, a .lew by birth and religion, died in tho Hos pital, and how two of his co-religion ists wero debarred from being present at his deathbed, as their feolings of hu manity and the precepts of their religion prompted thorn. Tlio Houso Surgeon, though earnestly urged to allow tho two gentlemen to remain with their dying co religionist, intorposed tho regulation which fixes tho hours for visitors, nnd denied tho concession asked. It is utterly repugnant to ordinary fueling, as woll as to tho spirit in which hospitals are founded, to know that peoplo aro thus allowed to dio without tho friendly ministrations of sympathisers or tho consolations of their religion j and wo rogrot to notico that " tho Hospital Committee havo takon no adequate steps to roniody tho evil. . The havo simply referred tho letter of complaint to tho Houso Surgeon— a most useless proceeding so long as that I gentleman considers himself bound by tho regulation. What was necessary in tho circumstances was that ho should havo boon asked to oxorci-0 his discretion and depart from tho rulo in casos such n_ that cited. Tho regulation is in itself proper and expedient for tho right management of a hospital; such n rulo is in voguo in all such institutions in the old country j but exceptions aro mado doily in favour of peoplo arriving from long distances to see patients and in cases of dangerous or fatal illness. Such also should bo tho enso here ; Dr. Bond knows well thoro aro excoptions to ovory rulo ; and it is to be hoped that hf future tho regulation in question will bo enforced judiciously and not oppresivoly. Another matter which cropped up at tho last meeting of Hospital Committee may also bo referred to. A proposal wns received from Dr. Bond, tho House Surgeon, ta tho effect that ho should tako week about with tho medical stall' in attending to pationU received at the Hospital. This proposition, which has boon referred to tho medi cal staff for thoir opinion, seems to us an objoctionablo ono. Quito apart from tlio recoption it is likely to meet with from tho medical staff, wo cannot imagine that any such divided arrangement could bo to tho puolic advantage It would create a distinction among tho cases treated which could not foil to causo jarring ; it would furthermore loid to tho Houso Surgeon acting in a twofold capacity, to tho probable detriment of tho institution ; and it would tend to increase rather than lessen tho friction between tho modical stall' and tho Houso Surgeon, which has caused such unpleasant episodes in tho past. On a question of this kind wo do not assume to dictate to tho gentlemen com prising tho Hospitul Board ; but from tlio standpoint of outsiders, wo conceive tho proposal of Dr. Haines, to divide tho Hos pital into medical and surgical sides, to bo ono much moro likoly to conduce to tho efficiency of the institution. This will necessitate tho appointment) of two other doctors 'o tho honorary stall'; but those can readily bo found, and with this distri bution and classification of tho work thoro can bo no doubt ie would bo much more thoroughly and carefully done. Tho whole question, wo infer, is now in the hands of tho medical stall', and thoro it may safely bo loft.

The Australian Mutual Provident Society.

That most wonderful of all tho won derful commercial and prudential achieve ments of Australasian genius, tho Aus tralian Mutual Provident Society, has issued another balanco-sheot for twelve months. It is published on tho front page of this evening's issue. Tho increase of business during the past year is astounding, and provokes tho inquiry, "What proportions will tho transactions of this society ultimately assume?" Thero have been added in now business to the membership of the Socioty no fowor than 7,020 policies insuring £2,577,723, giving a revenue of £94,189 9s 5d per annum. Tho Society has a present membership of 55,729 persons, who hold policies of insurance to tho amount of £20,298,409. Tho revenue from premiums is £677,072 a year, and from interest on investments £303,075, the total revenue coming within twenty tlioueand of a million pounds ster ling per annum. Tho accumulated funds amount to £4,349,584. These figures re quire pondering upon to grasp their magnitude. Tho history of this Society is a marvellous story of successful combination for a mutual advantage Tho Society adopted, in their scale of premiums, a rate that would mako failure virtually impossible. They invested their incomo with caution nnd success, and havo been able to return to their members in bonuses better interest upon their savings than they would havo obtained for themselves. The periodical valuations of the Society are recognised in tho insurance worid as being conducted upon the most advanced principles of aoturial soienco. It com mands confidence equally from past successes and present possessions; and judging by tho records of its business last year, the Society is only on tho threshold of its career as tho premier expositor of piudontial principles in thoso colonies.

This day is observed partially by English men as St. George's Day, in honour of England's patron saint. St. George is generally represented on horseback encoun tering a dragon, and is venerated in nil the oountries which adhere to tho rites of tho Greek Church. Difficulties have been raised about St. Georgo : somo regard him as a myth, and have called his existence in ques tion, supposing tho representation of the saint as nothing more than a symbolical device of victory. Tho Ordor of the Garter, which was instituted April 23, 1349, by Edward 111., is tho most noble and ancient of any lay order in the world. The Collogo of the Order of Knights of St. George is seated in tho royal castlo of Windsor. In the chapel of St. George the poor knights are installed. St. George's Day is also re markable in connection with the demise of two great writers—Shakespeare and Cer vantes—who died on tho same day, April 23, 1010.

The Hon. Mr Mitchelson had intended to Btart on his return overland journey to Wellington today, bui for various reasons ho has postponed his departure till to morrow morning. The train will convey him to Te Awamutu, whence he will shape his course by the western railway route (Carkeek's) to Now Plymouth, and thence to Wellington via Stratford and Ohuru Valley. When Mr Mitchelson loft Wellington a fortnight ago, ho expected to meet the Pre mier here on his (Mr Mitchelson's) arrival. After the departure of the Minister of Public Works from Wellington, the Premier saw fit to alter the programme, and instead of coming to Auckland to meet his col league, he went South. Mr Mitchelson hopes to bo in Auckland again in tho course of a fortnight, and intelligence is to hand to the effect that Major Atkinson will also bo here about that time. We' learn that the Mutual Assurance Society of Victoria have bought that largo and handsome building in Queen-street presently occupied by Mr Atkin, draper. This Society has but recently started opera tions in Auckland, but the enterprise of the directors in securing such central and com modious premises is at pneo a proof that they consider the prospects good, and a guarantee to the public of the stability of the Concern. The 'property' purchased has a frontage to Queen-street of 33 feet, and the price paid is, we believe, £10,000.

About Sunday night or Monday morning a large number of articles wero stolen from the cutter Start. The captain, mate, nnd coolc left the vessel between (> and 9 p.m. on Sunday, and when they returned on Monday morning they dis covered that the cabin had been en tered, nnd that an alarm clock, a blanket, overcoat, pair of trousers, look ing-glass, brush, towel, etc., were missing. The matter was reported to the water police, and at 3 p.m. on Monday afternoon Constable Macdonald was in formed by the master of tho Saucy Kato (Lewis) that ho had bought a pawn-ticket for a clock for is. The constable, having ascertained that this was the one missing, got a description of the man from whom Captain Lewis bought the pawn-ticket, and by this means cleverly traced him to tho Waitemata Hotel and arrested him thore. The man denied stealing any of the articles except tho clock, but Constable Macdonald subsequently found the majority of them in a box belonging to his prisoner on the ketch Lucy James. Tho prisoner (Wm. Tcinplo) was charged with larceny at tho Polio. Court yes Lerday morning and re manded for eight days.

It would appear that Sunday trading is still proceeding in some portions of the city. We understand that the police have taken proceedings against two publicans for broaches of this portion of the licensing ordinance. Against ono of these bonifaces throe separate and distinct charges of Sun day trading havo boon laid.

Wo learn that tho Presbytery of Auck land has just completed tho purchase of a site for a church on tho Surrey Hills Es tate. Tho sito is v fine level picco of ground, with 92 feet frontage to Rose Road, and 177 foot to Surrey-street, amply sufficient for church and manse. It is ad mirably adapted for tho purpose required. It id contemplated to build at onco, and we heartily congratulate tho Presbyterians of Auckland in their being tho first to supply tho wants of this rising neighbourhood in tho shape of Sabbath services.

Infectious disease seems to bo on tlio in crease in tlio city. Typhoid fovor linn ob tained a hold in" Parnell, Karangahapo, and in Ponsonby, nnd diphtheria also has broken out in the last-named suburb, but it does not appear to be of n virulent typo. Sev eral families aro down with it, nnd some aro recovering.

Tho concert in the Theatre Royal,to tako plueo this evening, successfully organieod by M. A. Villeval, in aid of Madame UuqucKiie, has attracted considerable attention, nnd a largo number of tickets havo been purchased ; ono gentleman has disposed of about 80. Tho concert has been arranged for tho benefit of tlio lady mentioned, who was tho foster-motrior of tho lute Mr James Mulh'ollnnd, whoso Biid den death excited much .sympathy v fow weeks ago. Mndnmo Duquosno Is 74, nnd vory infirm. Her ohnractor is irreproach able, and tlio concert in hor favour Is well deserved. In consoquonco of indisposition, Miss Staunton will bo unable to sing this evening. Mrs Rovitt has kindly consented lo appear, and will sing " Love's Request" and "If."

Wo aro informed that there nio no less than the following number of persons em the various defaulters' lists for tho city wards: —City East, 154 ; City North, 95 ; City South, 238 ; Grafton, 35 ; Pon sonby, 245; Karangahapo, 126, Total, SOO, and tho whole of these persons, numbering amongst them our leading citizens, will bo disqualified from voting at municipal or licensing elections for tho next year.

Speaking at tho Baptist Boiroo last oven ing. Rev. Mr Fairbrother gave somo in teresting oxporioiices of his Maori mission, lie mentioned tho fact that tho attondnnco nt tho .services had increased from 5 to 100, and of Sunday-school children from 20 to 79.

Tho Auckland Hospital librarian acknow ledges with many thanks tho receipt of fif teen nutnbors of " Tho Graphic," one num ber of "Tholllustrated Sydney News,"and four numbers of " Public Opinion," from Mrs Squirrel, Wakofiold-stroot,

Tho lectiiro on " Tho Resurrection " last night in tho Christians' Meoting Houso, New North Road, was not given on account of tho illness of Mr Exloy, tho expected lecturer. Thoro wns a largo turn-out, and Mr Carr gavo an address which was much appreciated. Mr Exloy's locturo is to bo given next weok.

Tondors for stnblcs and car-shed nt Pon sonby, for tlio Aucklnnd City Tramway Company worn opened at tho meeting of directors yesterday,.and it was decided to hold ovor the tondors of Wrigloy and Hand ed r»'< n.d (!. Rhodes until'tho next mooting.

Mr R. Isaacs, who wont down in the Japanese warship, was landed at VVaiwora on Sunday shortly before the departure of tho vessel for Chili. Somo of tlio officers camo on shore at Waiwora for a few hours. It was tho intention of Capt. Ariji to havo visited the baths, but was nnublo to do so. A dinner was given on board on Sunday to Mr Isaacs, and Mr Isaacs landod with a host of curio presents from tho officers.

A houso of nino rooms, owned by Mr Francis Creighton, and sitnnted about scvon miles distant from Papakura, was burned to tho ground on Mondny last. Every thing in tho building was destroyed, in cluding a new piano and valuable furniture. When tho outbreak was first discovered, the roof; a short distanco from the chimney, w,ig in flames, which speedily spread and consumed tho house. The building was insured, but tho owner will nevertheless bo a losor by tho occurrenco.

A tompcrnnco meeting will bo held this evening in tho Temporanco Hall, Albert street, under tho auspices of tho New Zealand Order of Good Tomplars. Ad dresses will be delivered on various aspecte of tho quostion by tho Rev. YV. S. Potter, Messrs D. Goldio (President of the Order), Carr, Tucker, and Wilcock. Songs by ladies and gentlemen, duet., solos, and musical selections. Recitations by Mrs Anderson nnd others. No chargo for ad mission. A good attendance is anticipated.

Ono of the most successful concerts ever given in connection with tho Epiphany Church took place last night in tho Congre gational School-room, Nowton,by tho mem bers and friends, to which tho vestry rendor their most hearty thanks. Duets, songs, solos, nnd recitations woro given by tho fol lowing ladies nnd gontlemcn :—Mosdames Stanton and Neavcs, Misses Platts, Tengue, Harvey, and Wright; also by Messrs War roll, Teaguo, Coulton, Brown, Minchor, and Williams. Tho audience woro bo well pleased that most of the performers had to respond. Misbcs Hulmo nnd Brown, and Mr Minchor, acted as accompanists.

Last evoning there was a goodly muster of members of Bands of Hope in the Pitt street Wesleynn School-room, for the purpose of practising pieces to be sung at tho annual gathering of Bands of Hopo on Queen's Birthday. It may bo recollected that during tho past two or threo years the Band of Hope Union has colebrated its anniversary by a gathering of the Bands of Hopo at tho Choral Hall, when the meetings havo been highly successful, the building beiug packed on each occasion. ' It is ex pected that this year's succoss will equal any previous one, and as Mr Frith is dovoting his wholo time and energy to the task of preparing tho singing and exercises by members, good results aro oxpected. Tho practices will be continued on Tuesday next in tho Nowton Congregational School room,

Tho anniversary of tho Wellesloy-s.roet 8,.2-tist Sunday-school was celebrated last evening by a Boireo. Tea was provided in the school-room by tho following ladies :— Mrs Dewar, Misses 8011, S. Cooper, A. Dewar, Gazo (3), Hewlett, Horon, Long more, Matthews, Pearson (2), Parsons, and Young. Tho subsequent public mooting in tho chapel was presided over by Rev. Thomas Spurgeon. From the annual report submitted by Mr W. Baker, Secretary, it ap peared that 73 new scholars had joined duriug tho year, leaving the present total at Cl 7, under tho charge of 47 teachers, nine of whom had been added during tho year. Twenty scholars had joined tho Church within the twelvo months. Tho young women's Bible class, under the conductor ship of Miss Cooper, has a membership of 39, and the young men's Biblo class, under Mr E. Bell, a membership of 34, while the infant class, under Mr C. H. Brown, num bers 170. Tho school missionary boxes con tained for the year £3.4 7s lOd, as against £28 2s kist 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 the Tabernacle Building Fund, which amounted for the year to t'lo G_ 2d, and made a pre sent of a Rob Roy canoo 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 he £212 6s ll_d, which was nearly equalised by expenditure, Hie balance in hand being £1 19s Sd. Ad dresses were dolivered by Mr Rountree, Revs. Woolley, Fairbrother, Macfnrlane, and Mr Hunter, nnd a vote of thanks was passed to Mr Charles Blomfield for his ser vices in the musical training of the scholars. The school soiree takes place to-night. Tea will be provided.in the School-room, and the entertainment subsequently will "be in the Young Men's Ctristian Association Rooms. ' ■ •

Patents are applied for as follows : —A. Binno, Maori Hill, Dunedin, for improved gas machine; J, W. Mansfield, Christ church, for sheet-metal standard for movablo fences; Thos. R. Rosier, Christ church, for grass seod and grain-cleaning machine; Joshua Harrison, jun., Christ church, for knee and saddle protectors; Robt. Kennedy, Dunedin, for improve ments in scrubbing apparatus; A. J. Schlaadt, H, Schlaadt, and G. S. Barton, Dunedin, for water motors; E. H. Elliott, Timnru, for tho "acmeautomatic wire-barb cutter," and for an invention for the bettor securing of barbs on fencing wire.

This being St. George's Day, and the majority of sharebrokers being Englishmen, there was no business done in the sharo market.

The business at the Police Court to-day, before Mesßrs Elliott and Tonka, Justices, consisted of the disposal of five drunkards, who were severally punished. A respect ably-dressed young woman was dismissed with a caution, this being her first offence. William Walsh, who had been remanded for eight days under the scourge of delirium tremens, was ordered to pay 20s, and Jls costs and maintenance, or in default, seven days' imprisonment. Sergeant Gamble conducted on the part of the police.

An omission was mado in our Hospital report yesterday Messrs J. C. Sharland and Co. wroto with reference to the re quisition sent to tho Colonial Socrotary for tho supply of drugs for the Hospital for twelvo months, that if tenders were in vited they would tender at tho prices quoted, plus the charges in tho list fur nished by the Apothecaries' Hall Com pany, of Glasgow. The Committee replied that tho requisition was furnished to the Government at their request.

We call attention to the lecture to bo de livered by the Rev. J. S. Hill on "The Tabernacle" on Friday evening in the Young Men's Christian Association. Ad mission is by ticket, which may be obtained free at tho Rooms.

About fifty casos were set down on the list for hearing at tho Resident Magistrate's Court to-morrow, but of these one-fourth have already been settled.

At a committeo meeting of the Now murket Brass Band hold at Newmarket before tho concert that was held last even ing, a present, consisting of a baton mounted with silver and a handsome mottled kauri music-stand, was mado to Bundmastor Morris for tho vory efficient nnd painstaking manner ho has brought this young band to thoir present proficiency. The committee also oxprossod tfieir thanks to that gontloman, hoping that in tho future ho will be still onabled to continue his ser vices with them. Bandmaster Morris returned thanks for tho handsome present, expressing his surprise for their generosity, and stated it was a great pleasure to him to moot with such willing pupils.

Thoannualmooting of tho members of tho North Shore Football Club was held on Monday evening last. The following officer, were olected for tlio season :—Presi dent, W. J, Hurst, Esq.; Vice-Presidents, .1. J. Swinnorton and A. Buchanan, Esqs; Committeo, J. Sims, 11. Cooke, and J. M. Sibbin ; delegates to Association, J. C. Webster and J. Sims ; Socrotary and Treasurer, G. M. Reid. The following now ineiuberH woro duly elected:—G. Tawhai, Hen Marshall, May nan], Slattery, W: Quick, \V. (Irattan, H. Swinnorton, W. Somortiold, N. Andorson, T. Farquhar, P. Wood, C. Williamijou. Atrophy, promised by Mr J. M. Sibbin, is to bo presented to tho player who displays tho best all-round form this season. The eloetion of a captain was deferred until the first Club match.

At tho closo of the business at tlio Police Court today, a man named Edward Drury presented himself to the Bench and wished to deliver nn address on law and justice, with the viow of showing that law is ono thing and justicoquito another thing. The Bench wore not disposed to listen to a long speech, however eloquent it might provo to bo. Tho speaker then raised himself, and said ho had a friend,bearing the Hibernian name of Lynch, whohadjustbeennrreatedby au un discerningcon. table on a charge of drunken ness. In tho nbsenco of a solicitor he came forward for tho purpoflo of vindicating his friend's estimable character andticcn vinco the Bench that Lynoh was not fou', Sergeant (iamblo ordered the constablo to put tho mon out or arrest him. Constable McClellnn, tho Court orderly, immediately trotted Drury Into tho open air as he mur mured, " I'll havo justico if possible in spite of the law." On leaving the precincts of tho Court, Drury followed tho polico to the station, acting in a most eccen tric manner, still harping on jus tico. Ho wont into tho guard-room and insisted on an interview with Superin tendent Thomson in relation to tho con duct of the polico in ejecting a " member of the press." Finally, as there seemed to be no oasy chanco of gotting him away, and as ho was evidently under tho influence of drink, ho was locked up with his friond, Lynch.

Tho quarterly teachers' conference in connection with the Primitive Methodist Sunday-schools of the city and suburbs was hold in tho echool-room Upper Pitt-street, hst evening, when Mr Goo. Turley, superin tendent of tho Upper Pitt-street Sunday school, read an interesting and practical paporon "Essential Qualifications inSunday school Teachers," which wns fully discussed afterwards. During tho evoning, Mr D. Goldio, on behalf of tho Alexendra-streot School, presented Mr and Mrs Thompson with a handsome illustrated family Bible as an expression of the high esteem in which thoy aro held. Mr Thompson suitably acknowledged tho gift, and said that although just married it was not their in tention to relax thoir oft'orls in the interests of tho Sunday-school. Tho Roy. W. S. Potter then presented Miss Nowbold with two woll-bound volumes of Ingram's works, on behalf of the teachers of the Upper Pitt-street School. .Tho rov. gcntlo man spoko of tho solf-denying efforts made by Miss Nowbold in order to preeido at the harmonium and 6ervo tho interests of tho cause. Mr Nowbold suitably replied on bohalf pf his Bister, and a pleasant evening terminated.

Tho " Northorn Advocate " says :—" The address given by Mr Fedorli on 'Sericul ture,' in tlio Public Hall, Whangaroi, last Thursday, was listenod to by a large audi ence, but we doubt if very much of what Mr Fedorli said will bo remembered. Though evidently woll up in his subject, he HofurlackßCommandof thoEnglishlanguage that it is difficult for him to oxpress himself cloarly, as it is for his auditors to grasp his precise meaning. Such a subject as sericul ture is now to üß,andasßuch it would require to be dealt with in a popular, simple, but complete manner beforo poraons would be induced to think the subject out, far less than give it a trial. Whoro, too, there aro so many other industries that might bo more largely undertaken hero — in dustries not wholly unknown to us, and undoubtedly profitable — it would require such an amount of persuasion to got persons to test tho matter that wo very much doubt whether tho gamo is worth the candle. Ilowovor, if it is, and the Hon. Mr Rolloston is convinced on that point, then wo think it is the duty of the Government to mako tho experiments with a nursery, and if successful the country will bo immonsely benefitted ; if it fails, tho colony will leso two or three thousand pounds ; the loss would be nothing to tho colony, but if it fell on poor farmors it might not only tend to causo a certain amount of distress, but do great harm by taking men from legitimate employments and frightening the same class from under taking other novel but more profitable in dustries.

I The anniversary of the Parnell Wesleyan Sunday-school was celebrated last evening by a soiree and public gathering. Tea was served in tho school-room, and the after mooting was held in the church, Mr A. Laybourn presiding. In his opening remarks, the Chairman referred to the diffi culties experienced and overcomo in the enlargement of the church and erection of the school-room, nnd concluded by giving somo useful advice to the teachers. Tho annual report, which was road by the Soeretary (Mr Witheford), 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 tho past year had beon very small, but by economy they had succeeded in keeping the expenditure down. Thoy had been unable, however, to add to tho library, but hoped to do so this year. In July last tho. attendance of teachers at the morning classes was so small that they wero discontinued until November, when they were taken up by Mr Whiteford, who also inaugurated a children's BOrvice, held in tho Oddfellows' Hall. They deplored the loss of the late Superintendent, but Mr Schofield filled his place. The Band of Hope was progressing well under Mr Leßoy, the right man in the right place, and the attendance was increasing. The report was adopted, after which Mr Schofield (Superintendent) addressed the meeting, and in course of a fow 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 wteregiven by clergymen, and the meeting closed with prayer.

Two accidents occurred this morning. P. 0. Neil, working at tho Provincial Hotel, was near gottintr his right hand crushed to piecos ; whilst taking up tho jib of tho crnno tho chain slipped, and was nearly taking O'Noil's hand off in its descent. Tho man was taken to Dr. Wilkins'sßurgery, corner of Queen and West Queen-street. He found no boneß were broken, but the flesh and Bkin of the hand and fingers terribly jagged and lacerated. Dr. Wilkins did what was necessary for'tho man and sent hira homo to keep quiet. Tho other case was that of Mr L. F. Derrick, fruiterer, Nowton. By some mismanagement a cart, containing several hundred-weight of fruit, tipped up, and in so doing crushed the end of the middle finger of his left hand. He, too, visited Dr. Wilkins at his surgery, who immediately dressed tho injured parts for him.

Renewals of slaughter-house licenses have been granted to Messrs Fisher, Hellaby, and Hulme.

At the annual meeting of the Ponsonby Football Club last night, Mr T. Macky was re-elected captain ; W. Skeen, secretary ; Messrs Cotter, Arniel, and C. Z. Clayton, committee for the ensuing season. The following rfew members were elected : —J. Young, F. Upfill, G. Walker, N. Anderson, J. Cosson, O. Tawhai Marshall, S. Somer field. It was decided to hold a practice match in the Domain on Saturday next.

Two whaleboats and crews leavo for Whangarei by tho Waitaki to-night for the pin pose of taking part in the regatta to be field thoro to-morrow. One is the now Pon sonby boat, which will bo rowed by a Pon sonby crew, and tho other is the Florence, to be rowed by Warbrick's crew. A racing punt, built by Wnrbrick and owned by Murphy, will also be taken down for entry in another event.

The Sailor's Rest and Home, under the able management of Mr Fell, continues to prove an attractive resort for seamen and others, and many pleasant evenings are spent in a variety of ways. Every Friday evening a concert is given, and forms a great attraction, while on every second Saturday a magic lantern worked by Mr Fell is exhibited. The principal views shewn are connected with Egypt and permit of most instructive lectures. Occasionally ministers and others visit tho Home and assist in providing entertainment of both an interesting and profitable character.

The April sessions of tho Grand Orange Lodgo of New Zealand was held at Whan gnrei on the 15th inst. Tho following officers of tho Grand Lodge arrived by the s.s. Macgregor from Auckland : —Bro. D. Goldio, R.W.G.M. ; Bro. A. W. Gladding, D.G:M, ; Bro. J. Carnahan, G. See. ; Bro. XV. Sargeson, A.G. Sec. ; Bro. Rev. W. S. PottorG. C.; and Bro. D. Cromerty, R. A. P.C. and were mot by several of the brethern who conducted them to the Whangarei Hotel, where traps were in waiting to show them the Bights of tho district. At C.BO p.m. about 50 brethren sat down to a Bumptuous dinnor at the Whangarei Hotel, Bro. Dickoy in tho chair, supported on tho right by Bro. Goldie, and on his left by Bro. Gladding. Tho vice-chair was occupied by Bro. Fraser, supported by Bros, Potter, Cromorty, Sargeson, and Carnahan. After dinner tho brethren procooded to tho lodgd-room, Boll's Hall, which was duly opened at 8 p.m. Besides the Grand Lodge officers from Auckland, there wero present from No. 31, Aratopu, Bro. Hands, dole gate ; from No. 15, Kawakawa, Bro. Brimcr, W.M. ; Bro. H. McCready, Acting P.M. ; Bro. Jaggar, Secretary ; Bro. J. Mc( 'orkindnle, Acting Treasurer ; and Bro. Jobn Spratt, delogato. Thoro wero also present as member? of the Grand Ledge frcm No. 45, Bro. S. Dickey, D.M. ; Bro. Jones, Secretary j Bro. Knight, Treasurer; Bro .Fraser, delegate, and agrcat number of visitors from the W rhangarei Lodge. There was a large amount of business of on inter esting nature gono through, consisting of correspondence from lodges, together with now matter brought forward for tho consi« deration of tho Grand Lodge. After 12 p.m. tho Grand Lodge was closed. On Thursday morning early, all being sup plied with horses, rode out to the Abbey Caves, returning in time to catch the steamer.

Messrs E. and A. Isaacs sold by auction to-day the immigrants' fittings, cooking utensils, baths, etc., ex Rangitikei. The attendance was good, and fair prices were realised. The surplus stores are to be sold in a few days.

SCINTILLATIONS.

St. Geokoe's Day—Banks closed,

Major Atkinson comes to Auckland shortly. To-day is the annivorsary of Shakes peare's birth. Last four nights of "Youth" in the Opera House. To Kooti intends visiting Poverty Bay. Grand benefit concert—Theatre Royal tonight. Messrs Booth and Glover commence a temperance crusade in Auckland next August. The Soutii Australian Parliament is to meet early in June.

Major Atkinson leaves Dunedin for Christehurch on Friday.

As in Now Zealand, there is in South Australia vague talk of a Coalition Ministry,

No Bculling match has yet been arranged with Hanlan at Sydney.

Any man found drunk in Germany is placed undor prohibition order for a year Tho Thames polico the other day im pounded the horso of a Salvation Army officer.

The Governor of New South Wales is presently on-a visit to Norfolk Isfand. Hon. Ivo and Mrs Bligh sailed for Eng land from Melbourne two weeks aga.

A well-boring party in South Australia, after three years' work, havo got water at a depth of 1,220 feet.

An interesting sleight-of-hand perfor mance—When a girl gives an admirer the mitten.

Mr Kenyon's Neiera fell and died while running at Palmerston raceß, Otago, yes terday. Tho jockey was uninjured.

The Kamo Company's Wuipu coach horses boltod yesterday morning, and Miss Campbell, a passenger, had her leg broken. A young lady has written a .Book called "My Lovers." It begins, of courso, at Chap. I. Fred. Marshall, tho well-known comedian, is suffering from mental aberration, and a subscription is being raised in Melbourne on his behalf. ••'

The incomo of Mr Gordon Bennett, of the "New York Herald," is said to bo greater than tho wholo of the revenue of England in the time of " Good Queen Bess." A body, identified as that of Tho... Grieve, buehmnn, was recently washed ashore at Opotiki. At the inquest, a verdict of "Found drowned" was returned. A lady of Havana, 111., though now ninety years of age, has worked 10,000 yards of lace in the last two years. Robert Niediergesaess, of Wellington, has invented improvements in refrigerating machinery which are claimed to effect a saving of 90 per cent, in coal alone.

Jonn Ormondy, a salesman in the employ of M. Harris and Sons, Christchurch, is committed for trial on a charge of stealing £200 worth of goods. Marks 801 lis charged with reset of the stolen gqods.

Investigations ot the statistics of suicide show that hanging is the method most com monly chosen by self-murderers, drowning noxt, and shooting and stabbing next. A six-roomed houso in Wellington belong ing to Geo. Dixon was burned down yester day afternoon. Insurances, £400 in Equit ablo and National offices.

Here is a very singular illustration of the optical delusion which a change of position will sometimes effect. Tako a row of ordin ary capital letters and figures: SSSSSSXXXXXX333333SSSSBS

Thesoseemtobemadeupof two parts nearly equal, but on turning the paper upside down it is seen at once that tho top halves aro a great deal smaller than tho lower halves. This shows a tendency in the eye to enlarge tho upper part of any object upon which it looks.

Yesterday at the Police Court, Dunedin, Daniel Buchanan, Bay View Hotel, was fined 40s and his license endorsed, for selling drink on Sunday. Ann Diamond.for selling liquor at the Clarendon Hotel with out a license, was fined £3. The license in the latter case was hold by a man named Antony on behalf of Mr Wilson, brewer. "Mercy on ÜB.children, stop that noise What are you quarrelling about ?" Littlp Nell: "We isil't quifrrellirigl" Mamma: " Then what is fj.ll this noise about ? XVhat is Harry scolding for, and why orp'ypu pulling his hair r Little Neti ; "Jt'? oiily piny,' mamma,' 'We is prete'ndln' we is married." "

SERIOUS EARTHQUAKE IN ENGLAND.

GREAT DAMAGE TO PRO-

PERTY.

[REI-TKB's TELEGRAMS.]

(Received April 23rd, 11 a.m.) London, April 22, noon. A VERY severe shock of earthquake was experienced this morning over the eastern counties of England. The shock lasted fully thirty seconds, and cau»ed consider able alarm. Great damage has been done to buildings in several towns, and at Col chester in, Essex, the spire of a church has been overthrown. So far as known no loss of life has o ceurrod.

SUICIDE OF A BRIDEGROOM.

(BY TET.EdRAPIi.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Dunedin, this day. A Yotisn man named Prescott, in the em ploy of Rennie and Dornwoll, butchers, committed suicide by hanging himself in a water-closet early this morning. Monetary difficulties are supposed to be the cause. Ho was only recently married.

PRE-SESSIONAL SPEECHES.

(BY TELEGRAPH —PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Hon. Mr Conolly at Ploton.

Picton, Tuesday. Mr Conolly addresged his constituents to-night, the Mayor in the chair. Refer, ring to the work of the past session, he said that although much time was wasted in idle talk and recrimination, yet it would compare not unfavourably with the session which preceded it. Ho spoke strongly against reviving provincialism, which, though good for some, would not benefit the whole colony ; but he feared ho would never see the day when the New Zealand Parliament would consist of men taking up the position of statesmen, and not mere local delegates. He referred at consider able length to Catholic grievances re educa tion, and said that so long as Government undertook tho education of the colony, it must do so on a secular basis. The moment they attempted to assist tho schools of ono particular denomination, they must do it for all religions—Christian, Jew, or heathen. The question of education must be entirely distinct from re'igion, and denominations must not ask State assist ance to teach their children the faith they believed to bo correct. He referred to the Dargaville episode as a disgraceful proceeding. He was sorry to see that Mr Dargaville was praised by his constituents for his courage in attacking' tho Ministry. There was no courage in making charges which lie could not prove, and ho was deserving of censure rather than praise. In coucluding a review of the past session, Mr Conolly said it was clear the Opposition wore thoroughly disorganised, ancf could only unite to attack Government on side matters. Referring to the financial state of the colony, he said when the returns for tho year came to be mode up the revenue from railways would be largely below the estimate, and that the grain being carried was an actual loss to the colony. There was a falling off, also, of £120,000 in the Customs, in which the Government had possibly made bad calculations. A large portion of the deficiency arose through the increased sobriety of the people. There had be in a ftil i ig off under the head of imported spirits, which was not altogether a subject of regret, but rather gratifica tion. It became immediately neces sary to reform the railway tariff, as it waß clearly not right that when the railways were not paying anything like in terest on the cost of construction they should carry articles at a loss. The tariff was raised, but still not to tho height at which it stood some years ago, and infinitely lesß than the rate at which goods would be carried by any other means than rail. It had met with a storm of opposition in Canterbury, where people thought the in creased tariff specially directed at them. A large number of members who hitherto had been consistent supporters of the Go vernment went against them in this matter, but ho hoped when they had time to con sider how the tariff affocted the colony as a whole they would soe how shortsighted was the policy they advocated. Mr Conolly deprecated tho reduction in the Armed Constabulary, and pointed to the destruc tion of the beacons at Kawhia as an in stance of its use in preserving peace and good order in the North Island, where there there were still large numbers of natives with mistaken notions in respect to their rights and powers. The colony w-as paying a very small insurance in keeping the Armed Constabulary. He strongly opposed the separation of the islands, and said that Marlborough, Westland, and Nelson would bitterly rue the day if it took place. For those districts the North Island had far more friendly feelings than were entertained by tho Southern portion of tho South Island. The policy of the latter was to keep what thoy had got, and let other districts go. Mr Montgomery's scheme meant that the million which in ordinary course would be borrowed in January should notbe borrowed at all, and that if he were in power the mil lion for the North Island Central Railway would never be raised. In regard to separation and somo other subjects Mr Montgomery was a more cat's-paw in the hands of Mr Macandrew. Three questions, at least, would be fought on the hustings. The first was separation or provincialism, the second was a land tax ns against a proporty tax. Ho had always ad vocated tho latter. Viewing land as a species of property, to tax land nnd leave other property untaxed was class legislation of tho worst possible description. He condemned a progressive land tax, which was based upon an utter fallacy, and nothing could be fairer than property tax. He would gladly see an in crease in the property tax, coupled with a diminution in the numerous articles which at present were tlio subject of Customs duty. The third question was that of education, and he at least would not sup port, any material alterations in the system. He desired to soe primary education up to the sixth standard maintained, but thought thoy went a little too far in tho direction of secondary education. Those who benefited by that ought to pay for it, and not the colony at large. The question on the hust ings would bo between tho present system and denominational schools, and ho had already indicated that ho should resist any Biipport being given to the latter. After referring to local topics, Mr Conolly con cluded by announcing his intention of seek ing election at tho noxt general election. A voto of thanks and confidence was passed almost unanimously.

Mr Munro, M.H.R., at Westport.

Westport, Tuesday. Mr Munro, MJf.R. for Buller, addressed a crowded meeting last night. After re ferring at length to local matters, he con tended that the Colonial Treasurer had every reason to expect that the revenue would sustain itself, and argued that largo paymonts for interest on borrowed money, private and public, wero tho chief cause of the commercial depression. He supported an increase of the property tax to one penny, and the im position of a progressive land tnx, tho latter for revenue purposes only. He said if the Government wanted land for settlement they should re-purchase it. He supported an increase of the railway tariff, and believed Parliament would justify the action of the Government. Ho spoke strongly against Mr Rolloston's administration of lands, and expressed an opinion that his resignation would not weaken the Ministry. He sug gested the reduction of the education vote by making the curriculum simply elementary, and confining the school ago to from six to thirteen years. He would persist in en deavouring to get tho gold duty reduced by 15 per cent. He contended that the county system was the best extant for local govern ment, and thought federation premature, and nationalisation of land Utopian. A vote of confidence was unanimously passed.

ALARMING ACCIDENT IN A THEATRE.

FOUIt LADIES SERIOUSLY

INJURED.

|IIV TELEGRAPH.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Dunedin, this day. Till- performance at the Princess Theatre terminated somewhat abruptly last night owing to an accident, by which Miss Carry Nelson was severely injured. During the progress of the play of " Drink," at the second scene of the first act, viz., the wash house scene, while Miss Nelson, Miss Rosa mond, Miss St. John, and Mrs Knight were standing on a kind of bride e held by ropes at each end, and fastened by taking a turn round cleats nailed on two upright posts, and while they were preparing to come down upon the stage.one of the cleats suddenly gave wav and the four ladies fell to the bottom of the cellar amongst a lot of debris, the height being about 30ft. from where they were standing Miss Nelson is the principal sufferer, her back being injured to some degree, but it is hoped there will be no permanent hurt. Miss Rosamond's injuries appear to be a sprained and contused arm while Miss St. John is severely crushed' Mrs Knight has her kneo injured and her ankle sprained.

THE EGYPTIAN QUESTION.

[BY CABLE.-COPYRIGHT.]

[REUTERs TELEORAMS.I

BERBER IN DANGER.

London, April 22,

The Governor of Berber telegraphing stated that his position is quite hopeless and that unless he is reinforced immediately he must surrender to the rebeU. Major Baring Reoalled from Cairo. Cairo, April 21. Major Sir E. Baring and General Graham have started for London.

London, April 22. Sir R. E. Egerton Iwb been appointed to replace Major Baring as British Consul at Cairo.

MINING NEWS.

[by telegraph.— own correspondent,]

Thames, this day. Deep Level Cross.—What appears to be the hanging-wall branch of the cross-reef has been intersected in the seaward drive at the intermediate level. It is about ten inches in thickness, and composed of rubbly quartz intermixed with clay. The manager purposes driving northward upon it. New Prince Imperial,.—Driving haa been commenced at No. 3 level on a mineralised .branch of tho Manner's reef, which struck off into tho hanging wall about 60 feet westward of the crosscut. This branch is likely to continue as a distinct lodo, and is of a highly promising nature.

SUPREME COURT.

Sitting in Chambers.

His Honor Mr Justice Gillies held a sit ting of the Supreme Court in Chambers yesterday. Probate was granted in tba estates of the following deceased persons : —John Gall, Duncan McKay, Charles Snowden, and Frederick Staff. Ap plications for orders to register copies of wills were granted in the estates of Edward Withers and Edward Graham McMinn, while a similar application in the case of Charles Lo Boutillier was adjourned. Letters of administration were granted in the estates of George Baird, Charles Knox Russell, and Alex. Marr. In re Archibald Wilson, a summons to jhow cause why pro bate should not be granted to Thomas Wilson was ordered to be tried by ' action. In re Mecklenberg t. Sale, a motion that charging order nisi be ' made absolute was granted. In re Bennett v. Harness, a writ was issued against defendant for service in Fiji, while in re Christie v. Snowden, an order was made for the issue of execution against defendant. Special juries were ordered in '.he libel cases of Gibbs and wife v. Samuel, and Boswell v. Samuel. Ari application that the pro perty of Mary Huxtable be vested in the Public Trustee was granted. An order of administration in the estate of Gregor McGregor was also granted. In re Lamb v. Lamb (divorce), Mr Heeketh moved for directions as to the mode of trial. His Honor directed that the case should be heard before a common jury at the next Civil Sessions of the Supreme Court, while tho direction in the divorce case of Offer v. Offer was that it should be tried without a jury at the same sessions.

This concluded the business.

This Day.—ln Banco.

(Before His Honor Mr Justice Gillies).

Land Transfer Application.—Mr E. Hes keth appeared in support of the petition of Jonathan Brown for an order to register land on the Waitaha Block, Tauranga, al leged to have been purchased from tho native owners. Messrs Moss and Alexander appeared for certain objectors. —Mr Hesketh stated the terms of the petition, which averred that tho signatures to the transfer were obtained to four instruments, and that the memorandum of transfer was lost in the steamship Taranaki, at Tau ranga ; that the petitioner had been in pos session of the land in question for 15 years, and that he had expended £10,000 in im proving it. The block of land containecl 10,780 acres, and had been purchased for £2,000 odd. The learned gentleman went on to state that Mr Brown had satisfied tho claims of all the objectors, and had com plied with all the provisions of the Land Transfer Act. The natives did not dispute the payment of the money, those who had objected having merely taken action through failure to obtain from those who distributed the money their fair share. They were now satisfied, however. He therefore moved that the interests of the grantees should be vested In Mr Brown, and that an order should bo made for tho registration of the transfer.—Messrs Moss and Alexander stated that as Mr Hesketh had gono very fully into the matter they had nothing to add. — His Honor considered the evidence sufficient to satisfy him that tho last instrument con voyed, or was intended to convey, the whole interest of the grantees of the Waitaha block to Jonathan Brown, nnd he therefore ordered that this person should be regis tered as tho proprietor thereof. The Rotorua Leases.— Tolo v. Cozens (appeal).—Sir Frederick Whitaker and |Mr C. E. Button appeared for tho appellant, and Messrs E. Hesketh and T. Cotter for the respondent. The case, which served as a test by which to determine others, was brought by the Commissioner of Crown Lands against George Cozens, a lessee under the Thermal Springs Act of 1881, for the recovery of £22 10s, rent under this lease. The case was heard in January last, and various objections raised. Of thp four principal ones, two were overruled, but the third point, which asseited that no tribe such as that mentioned in the deed of lease could bo regarded as a corporate or quasi-Corporate body, and its such entitled to grant leases, wag sustained, the result being that the plaintiff was non suited. Tho fourth point, viz., that no arrangement made with tho native proprietors had been proved, was not con sidered. The whole of the original objec tions, and not merely the one sustained in the Court bolow, were now rolied upon by tho respondent. Sir Frederick, in his con tention on behalf of the appellant, gave a list of Acta in which the existence of tribes was distinctly recognised, and pointed out that section 12 of tho Thermal Springs Act gave to a duly delegated person the right of signing leases on behalf of the tribe. —His Honor remarked that this would seem to be a new mode of conveyanoing by which a person who had np power to convey according to law was authorised to authorise some other person to exercise that power. A tribp included all the men, women, and children in it, and he did not see how Buch a mass of people could give a lease.—Sir F. Whitaker replied that what the Legislature meant by "the tribe '"'was ad the males in it who had attained f;heir majority. Their intention in passing the Thermal Springs Apt was te promote settle ment, and for that purpose they authorised the native proprietors to grant leases through the Governor, whoso agent Mr Tolp was. The learned counsel went on tp argue that the Respondent in this caso(l) Has estopped from contesting his landlord's title. (2)' That he was estopped !>y deed.and (3) Thatacoyenaptfor the p_j. ment of rents is a covenant in grogs and 19 valtd although no estate passed under th« IQ&SQ itßOlf,

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, 1884



pHEAP. AND GOOD CUTLERY. THOMA_TSAMUEL. Importer of Cutlery, has just received a good supply of all kinds of TABLE AND POCKBT CUTLERY, Conslst-ntf ot Ivory and Bone Table Knives. ' Pocket Knives, Loekwood's and Johnston's; I Scissors and Razors, superior makerß. ELECTRO-PLATED WARE- Forks. Spoons, Cruets, etc. All the above Goods selling at voir low prices,' wholesale and retail. ■ " .. _«-«w, _§___ __■' _.THOMAB SAMUEL, '. ■ i 108, Queen-st. (next Mr Weatpfahl. Bootmaker J '



Special Advertisements. f\ N AND AFTER Ist MAY DR. MAC MULL EN can be Consulted at Haslett's, Queen-street, from 11.30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and at his Residence, Ponsonby Road, from C.30 to 7.30 p.m. AUCKLAND GAS COMPANY (LIMITED), ESTABLISHED 1862. PURVEYORS OF LIGHT, HEAT, AND POWEIt. The Company sell and erect gas-fittings, Id* eluding gas apparatus and gas-power engine-. Stuck includes Otto Gas Engines.—Office and Show-rooms. Fort-street ■p|RESS GOODS DEPARTMENT. NOVELTY DRESS FABRICS DAILY ARRIVING. We have much pleasure in announcing the daily arrival of our LATEST AUTUMN AND WINTER NOVELTIES. Embracing all tho very Newest Shades for this season's wear, and including Elaborato Designs In COMBINATION SUITINGS IN PLAIDS AND PLAIN CLO'fHES ANDOTHEK CHOICE EFFECTS. This collodion is by far the Largest and Most ' Elegant ever Imported to Auckland, and is marked at LOWER PRICES THAN SIMILAR GOODS HAVE EVER BEKN SOLD AT IN . NEW ZEALAND. Your Inspection is Respectfully Invited. Country Orders, whothcr large or small, re ceive prompt and caroful attention. Goods sent on recoipt of P. 0.0., thereby giving Ladles in the country equal advantages with residents in this city. J )C OSGRAVE &C 0„ 201 and 206, Queen-street. Mrs r. somerville, WELLESLEY-STREET (OPPOSITE ABBOTT'S OPERA HOUSE), Has Received, per Mail Steamer, A BEAUTIFUL ASSORTMENT OP FRENCH AND ENGLISH MILLINERY. TEMPORARY PREMISES OPPOSITE A. CLARK AND SONS'. H, L. POSSENISttIE, MERCHANT TAILOR AND IMPORTER, Shortland-btrekt, Auckland, Wishes to Inform His Patrons anil the Pnbllo generally that he has just keceived HIS FIRST SHIPMENTS OF AUTUMN AND WINTER GOODS, Per b.s, Ruapehu. The above comprise all the Latest DE-hons In TWEEDS and COATINGS, and are well worthy an Inspection. rviSEASES OF THE EYE. ARTHUR RICHARDSON, M.D., .SPECIALIST AND OPERATOR ON DISEASES OF THE EYE, MAY BE CONSULTED AT HIS RESI DENCE. KARANGAHAPE ROAD. /^.REAT QALE' OF TT^RAPERY AT THE EDINBURGH HOUSE EDINBURGH HOUSE (Opposito Howe-street). f^i riOUTTS Has resolved on a LARGE REDUCTION OF HIS STOCK. SAT-E TO COMMENCE 19_>_i AI-lIL. GREAT REDUCTIONS IN PRICES. GREAT REDUCTIONS IN PRICES. GREAT REDUCTIONS IN PRICES. COME AND SEE. COME AND SEE. COME AND SEE. INSPECT THE STOCK. INSPECT THE STOCK. INSPECT THE STOCK. G. C. takes this opportunity to thank his friends and customers, and to solicit a con tlnuonoo of the same. pHEAP HIGH-CLASS TAILORING, A. E. SPENCE, 172, Queen-street, Begs to Inform the Public of Auckland that WE HAS OPENED BUSINESS IN THE MERCHANT TAILORING AT ABOVE ADDRESS. Having several years Experience as " Cutter " In leading London and Provincial Trades, A. E. S. is prepared to turn out GENTLEMEN'S GARMENTS m -UK MOST APPROVED AND FASHIONABLE BTTLE, AT VERY MODERATE CASH PRICES. Note the address— 172. QUEEN-STREET Over Messrs Wilson. Williams, & McCullagh), GREAT BARGAINS m BLANKETS, FLANNELS, JACKETS, ULSTERS, &o. WILLIAM T> TJRIDGMAN ILLIAM XV. J3RIDGMAN Has just opened uo a Splendid Lot of New Goods for the Winter Season, exceptionally well bought and will bo sold at a very moderate advance to meet the times. 300 Pairs New Blankets, all sizes and quail ies, from 6s 6d pair, having been bought con siderably un_er usual rates, will bo Bold cheap, iud cannot be beaten. BOUGHT A JOB. Nearly Two Hundred (£200) Pounds worth of Ladies'and Girls' Ulsters and Black Cloth Jackets, which will be SOLD AT and UNDER WAREHOUSE PRICES; some very choice Goods in Dolmans, &c. 'Jirls' Jackets, from 3s 9d; Ladies' Heavy Ulsters, from 6s lid !,000 yards Flannels, all makes, from 7_Jd yard Colonial Flannel, HJd; 32in, Heavy Welsh, Is OJd, worth 2s 50 Coloured Alhambro Quilts, 2s 6d Special Value in Grey Calicoes, 32in„ 2}d yd Choice Patterns in Now. Cretonnes, 6jd yard, worth 9d -Strong Worsted }-head Super Fingering Yarn, 2snoad Sice Assortment New Dress Goods, from 3»d Boys' Strong Tweed Trousers, 3s 9d; Mens Tweed Trousers. _s lid . . Men's Strong Tweed Coats, 6s lid, spl'd value Sew Winter Goods in all Departments Job Lines in great variety, and lot of Remnants, very cheap, and worthy of inspection Floorcloth, in all widths, from 27in., 9d yard. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, UPPER QUEEN-STREET. OEMQVAL OF BUSINESS. jyjILNE £- QHOYCE Respectfully Announce that THEY HAVE REMOVED THEIR BTOCK TO THE ARGB NEW BUILDINGS, WELLESLEY AND LORNE-STREET3, Where they are now showing the Latest Novel ties in FRENCH AND ENGLISH MILLINERY, DOLMANS AND JACKETS IN RICH BROCADE VELVET, OTTOMAN AND OTHER MATERIALS, CHILDREN'S and LADIES' ULSTERS, STYLIBH COSTUMES, DRESS MATERIALS IN STRIPEB AND CHECKS, AND NEW PLAIN FARRICB, ! FURS, LACE GQQDB, HOSIERY, AND ' GLQVEB. ; LADIES' UNDERCLOTHI^GI AND .BABY (LINEN.



Special Advertisements. pURNISH - THROUGHOUT p ARLICK J. /^RANWELL AUK THE CHEAP I I CHEAP I C|H|K [A | P | HOUSE F V R N I S H E R S. HOUSE FURNISHERS. HOUSE FURNISHER 8. LARGE I LARGE STOCK I STOCK TO SELECT FROM. QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND, FROM Gahlick - and - cranwelL. To Mkoicm, Alkw—llrvoKii- Liquor Pan- C KATIUfrt. UKM'Kn'M 1.11.1011 PKI'TICUS, I'.ilSllKlt'u P-.1-'MN.-il-U t-KI--' JIOLI.Y, IIKNUKIt'.. -I i.K-l):!ll.*n.l> I I>-. ■• I'D - iJKI.IL'ATKCIIII.UUKN .'.. I ny .11.1ns llu-si- "uiliuirubln pri-para- U..H-,' ivi.lt; "l.uni..: " March '.'. BSS) may b_ pr .■• n-,-,1 ut Aici_i.\'«i " Tho Pharmacy," Qiiiuui Slr.rl'U



To-morrow evening a dramatic and musical entertainment will be held in the girls' school, Kcnmc -a, in aid of the library fund. Among the Interesting items of the programme is a scone from Shakespeare's " Midsummer i Night's Dream." Contracts taken for all kinds of concrete work, largo or small, and estimates and other information given to those wishing to do their own work.—John Wilson and Co., 75, Queen street.— [Ad vt.J Perambulators and carpets, reversible bloyclo wheol and other kinds of perambulators iust opened from £1 to £1. New designs in .rue-sell and tapestry carpets. Furnish your house throughout from Garliok and Cranwell s City Hall Furnishing Warehouse, Quocn-street - [Advt.l



Bicycles, unequalled for finisn, price, and quality, at Shakespoar and Po.'s (opposite the Market), Queen-stroot.—[Advt.J English Lever Watches packed and sent post free to any part of New Zealand on receipt of P. 0,0. for £3108. A stamped guaranteo en closed.— A> 'G. Bartlett, 154. Queen-street, Chronometer and Watchmaker (opposite Theatre Royal), established 22 years.—(Advt.J