UNKNOWN

[By Zamiel.] j

gfr'fl«ho write, a neighbour's name to lash, B Some write-valn thought !-f or needful cash, | BornewiUtoplea^o^unwydaeh. jlVeby frequently an analogy is drawn our Legislative Council and the | British House of Peers, and tho comparison i; is generally unfavourable to our colonial % legislators, with their frequent bod gram -3 mar, their underbred ways, and their occa- V'atonal infractions of the law of the land, not I to Bpeak of a " weakness" which is attributed to at least one of their number, and which led to a half-hour's private debate in the I Upper House last week. But it ia very |i much to be questioned whether these sneers Hp justifiable, and "Zamiel," for one, B would prefer to take his stand on the side :. of our colonial " Lords," who, with all their faults, make up a Chamber at least equal in i dignity and usofulnesa to tho House of Peers. Taking the present attitude of the two Chambers, it must be conceded that the colonial shows well beside the Imperial assemblage. The House of Lords in England has been taking up an ob atinatoly obstructive attitude towards the Franchise Bill of Mr Gladstone, a measure which is an instalment of justice to tho long unfranchised millions of tho poorer class,' besides thousands whose only sin was that they did not belong to an urban population. Naturally, the action of the Peers has proved very unpopular with tho people, and the latter are in no lovely mood on the subject of the House of Lords. I remember a former agitation, in which the obstructiveness of the hereditary Chamber came in conflict 1 with the will of the people, and at an open- I air meeting the mention of the august assemblage by an orator was received with vigorous yells of "To h with the House of Lords 1" This expression was decidedly more forcible than elegant, but it expressed very correctly the temper of the people. Let the Lords persist in their present obstructive tactics, and if there were a deeper deep than Hades, the indignant populace would sweep them into it, though bloody revolution and sore distress were Invoked in tho step..,

It is refreshing to turn by way of contrast to the recent action of New Zealand's •• Lords." On Monday they threw out the District Railways Leasing Bill—one of the Colonial Treasurer's pet schemes—and it is expected that they will accord similar treat ment to other so-called "policy bills" of the Government. In this way it is to be hoped the colony •will bo saved from the rash experiment of the E»Bt and West Coast and Kelson Kail way Bill, and the reckless borrowing powers proposed for those West Coast leaches — the Harbour Boards of Greymouth.and Westjjort. It is no mere factious spirit of opposition—no mere exer cise of privileged obstruction — no mere defence of their own interests — that our Lords have had recourse to: it is a patriotic I step which may be the means of snatching the colony from a ruinous career of ex travagance and jobbery. If the bills I havo enumerated are fair samples of the *' policy" measures of the Government, then R is a policy of corruption, land-sharking, and stock-jobbing. Bravo ! I cry, for our noble Lords; and more power to their strong | right arm ! Theirs is no fight for the sup port of the privileged classes, but is in the interests of the whole community, and especially the working man, who contributes most largely to taxation in proportion to his income. This is proved by the fact that the leading Liberals, such as Sir Geo. Grey and Mr Moss, are strongly opposed to the plan which the flash Sir Jew has concocted I lor increasing the burdens of colonists by Impoverishing the public estate and enrich , ing English syndicates. (Commissions and ■ « double commissions" to somebody may be B imagined, but not described). Of course, if our Lords save the colony by rejecting these I bills, the Government will quietly grin and I bear it. They would never dare appeal to the electors on such a sham and shoddy I •' policy" as that I have described ; and I I fancy that Mr Stout, good Radical as he is, ■would hesitate before resolving upon — —<c stumping" tho nountry in defence of auch a programme.

The Art Students' Association cannot accuse the local press of neglecting their Exhibition, though some of its members may complain that their works have been rather roughly handled. The President himself did not escape ; and it really was too bad to pull his inaugural address about so brutally. He can hardly be expected to rival Michael Angelo and Mr D. G. Kosetti, both of whom could drive a quill and wield the paint-brush with equal ability. It is enough if he excels in one department, and shows an ignorant public how New Zealand really looks, in opposition to the libellous representations of it with which the old school has hitherto deceived us. But with all his enthusiasm, he must sot imagine that he is going to inaugurate a new era, and bring about a revolution in our local art. He may set a reformation afoot, and I, for one hope he will; but with moderate results he must be content— not results like those for which the painter of " Amohia" ia responsible in, for example, the morning river scene. If that is a truthful portrayal ef what actually exists, then the vast majority of those spectators who have gazed with curious perplexity on the can vas have never seen It; and they doubt very much if Mr Keeaing ever did. Such work as that will not effect a reforma tion, let alone a revolution. No, there must be better work than that; and better work can only be accomplished by per severance and practice, and is not to be attained with a rush. There ia no royal road to perfection in painting any more than there is to perfection in any other kind of labour, which is a very venerable statement I know, but it is one which seems to need trotting out once in a while.

The members of the Society of Arts Should now be put upon their mettle, and their aim no doubt will be to prepare for their next exhibition with astonishing vigour, and make it the best yet seen in Auckland. Such rivalry is lsgitimate, and should be one of the bene ficial effects resulting from two societies. It is a good sign that our city should be capable of maintaining a couple of art associations. Their existence and their suc cess are proofs of the love of art which is prevalent in our midet; and at the same * me indications of the progress of culture and refinement. Another gratifying fact U tj bo found in the amount of good work which is exhibited from time to time. Of course there is aUo abundance of tiierlor, careless, rubbishy work, and, 1 ke the poor, it will be with us always ; bit the standard has distinctly risen within the last four or five years. Auckland has long had the name of being a musical city; and I think she may now lay claim to a prominent, if not the firet, place in the c jlony in the appreciation and cultivation of another branch of the fine arts.

Faeilis deceiuus Averni. The dress •• improver " has given way; or is in the act of doing m. to the crinoline, which, it was once fondly hoped, was gone for ever-gone asßurelyasthetogaorthesandal. The tyrant was banished in a time, " Punch with hb caricatures lending fc/licient aid, buttho much-dreaded is back again before we are well aware. Ido not mean that the oal loon-shaped enormity has amved in all its hideousn^ss. At present only a modified monstrosity, known pethaps as a cnnolette, I and shapea lika a dinner ball, impedes the footpaths and makes the weavers look splay footed. Yos, it's a fact, splay-footed. _ I defy any woman, tall or short, fat or slim, to walk gracefully in a crinoline. The thing is impossible. A graceful carriage will soon become a thing of the past if this offen sive article ofdresabecomeunivereal. Every daughter of Eve, whether she will or no, will be waddling up and down the streets aa if she had big, flat feet turned outwards. I make this statement deliberately, without malice, and with the interests of tho fair sex at heart. May they ponder it with the \ care it deserves. But appearances are not '-:. the whole of the matter. There is another ■.'.reason, a practical and matter-of-fact one, m why crinoline? bliould be burnt, turned into fly-catchera—at any rate, not worn. Ag a X tiller in omnibuses, I picture to-myself the misery -which must, ensue. Some wet even ' Ing, when I shall be returning to the bosom I of ray family, I shall be hemmed In with a couplo.of crinolines, one on either aide - squeezing^against my knoos two wet soaking -■ gowns. I aniver at the thought. I dread the coming ill, and wonder what I have done ■to deserve raoh a late Therefore I write; but I fear the attempt to avert the evil will ,-■■■■ t« uneucceaeful, The ways jot fashion are

paiit finding out, It would bo more to the pwpose if Sir Julius Vogel would clap on crinolines an ad valorem duty of fivu hundred, "a thousand, or two thousand pel' cent. . . So Tawhiao has come back from his sojourning in a far country ; after praying that the English might dwell in peace in their own land, has given practical shape to his viewßby returning to what Tom Blacken calls '' the land of tho Moa and Maori." No doubt he comes back with a little of the veneor of civilisation upon him. Not only has he got shiny bell-topper, tight-fitting togs, and patent leather boots, but he has, I daresay, got enlarged ideas of men and things, and a touch of those manners which, according to popular phrase, share with tho tailor in the honour of " making the man." Poor old Cetewayo, it is said, only picked np two English phrases during his visit to the metropolis, and these were "Fizz" and "Good night." Fizz being tapu to Tawhiao, he could not be expected to master that short but expressive word; but his linguistic achievements seem to have been just about as extensive as were those of the Zulu King. His frequent visits to the Alhambra greenroom and to various business places with pretty cashieresses resulted in his learning the phrase, "Tata, my dear;" and it must have been a sight worth seeing when he took leave of some "ladies of high degreo" with that delight fully patronising remark. lam afraid, after his London experiences, that Tawhiao will be rather discontented with life in a Maori wharo. After "going the ppce"in tho world's metropolis in tho company of the loveliest, wisest, and best of the land after being feasted and llattored and caressed on all hands—after clothing himself in superfine broadcloth and faring sumptuously every day—it must grieve him to come down onco more to tho dirt and discomfort of a native " kainga," to the dreary, lazy monotony of Maori existeneo, varied only by an occasional umbrella attack on tho part of Parehauraki, or one or othor of the wives of the royal bosom. There is one ray of hope in the gloom, how ever. It is rumoured that Tawhiao has brought a barrel organ with him, and as "music hath power to soothe the savage breast," he may find solace and employ ment in travelling round the native settle ments discoursing sweet strains to his astonished subjects. The barrel organ, as a civilising agency, has hitherto been sadly neglected; it. has indeod been popularly supposed to have a tendency to make civiliaod man "savage;" but it will be a pleasant change if the antipodes can reverse the rule, and at one stroke elevate the hapless Maori and vindicate the character of a much-maligned instrument.

Tawhiao has, to use his own idea, "dropped down" to a thing or two gince he left us a few months ago. Maori etiquette, I must confess, is something new to me, and I was consequently somewhat surprised to find it crop up at the Temperance Hall meeting on Wednesday last. After the speeches were over, when the Blue Itibbouitci had almost cheered themselves hoarse and bruised their hands in excessive demonstra tion of their delight because of Tawhiao having kept the pledge, the question was mooted as to where the "King " and party were to be housed. Tawhiao having been asked if he had mode any arrangements, re plied that the proprietor of a well known hotel had visited him early in the day, and that he had agreed to take up his quarters at the "public." Now this, for a "Blue Ribbon man," seemed a bit "off," so the sons of temperance put their heads to gether to overcome the dilKculty. At length one of them mustered sufficient courage, and recommended Tawhiao to be guided by the "Committee." The result was a heavy shock, and was evidently more than they bargained for. Mr C. 0. Davis, interpreting for Tawhiao, said :—" Well, you see, gentlemen, according to Maori etiquette, if you choose a place of residence, you must pay the expenses of the party, but if you leave the matter to the natives they will, of course, pay themselves." One son of temperance plainly expressed his opinion that this was "too much of a joke." Another drew attention to the possibility of their having to lodge not only Tawhiao, but twenty or thirty of his friends. Theso and other matters were discussed for some considerable time, while nobody knew what was best to do, and things were becoming awkward. At length one gentle man suggested that they should otter to pay for Tawhiao and three companions -if it was distinctly understood that there were to be no more —at a temperance boarding house, and Tawhiao, in all his wisdom, and his swarthy countenance suffused wtiu smiles, indicated that it was all right. Thus the "King of all the Maoris" was provided with board and lodg ing for himself and three friends— but, mind, no more! This reminds me of a story to the effect that a very rich man once invited a friend to drink with him. The friend called for a " sixpenny," and the rich man throwing down threepence said, " Well, you can pay the balance yourself."

• Land bills are "stock pieces" on the boards of Colonial Legislatures!, and the discussions which take place upon them are about as dry and long-winded as could be imagined. Land legislation has this year engaged the attention of the Parliaments of Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia—the latter being the only colony, by the way, which has proposed ths imposi tion of a land tax meant to secure to the State " the unearned increment." A humorous incident relieved the tedium of the discussion in the New South Wales Parliament, and deserves to be recorded. An orator, while dilating upon the-theme, was subjected to continual interruption by the member for Newton, who is a retired undertaker—the same person, if I mistake not, who was described by the " Bulletin " as an " erysipelatous, coffin-hunking land shark." The sepulchral remarks of this gentleman were more than the speaker could boar, io he nailed him down in this fashion:—" Yes," he said, " the hon. mem ber for Haslem'a Creek (the old Sydney cemetery) should know a great deal about the land question. He has settled more people upon the lands of the colony than, perhaps, any other man—(great laughter)— and he is the only person I know of who has succeeded in giving fixity of tenure." Of course this retort "brought down the house," and the discomfited undertaker had to retire into his " shell!"

"Alasl what troubles do environ The man who meddles with cold iron!" That which was true in the time of "Hudibras" has an ox tended application in these days, for recent events in this tune ful city have proved that the man who meddles with the conductor's baton may land himself in as pretty a peck of troubles as evvi1 environed the amateur swash buckler. Herr Carl Schmitt has been un well for some weeks, and the temporary fill ing of his post of conductor of the Choral Society has proved the beginning of sorrows, and according to some croakers may end in the disintegration of the Society. Neither the Vice-President nor the Treasurer could conveniently undertake the duty, and so the Secretary stepped into "the deadly and the imminent broach " with that sort of rashnew which angels are supposed to guard against. For reward he has been Branded as good-natured but devoid of experience ; and for result his aroused the jealousy of several musical aspirants and the wrath of their friends. The mode n " good natured man" continued, however, to wield the baton until one professional gentle man got a friend to write to the papers be littling the Secretary's praiseworthy labours, and prognosticating all sorts of calamities if a duly qualified conductor were not ap pointed. This action, and not the Secre tary's self-denying labour, is what is likely to endanger ths unity of the Society, and 'twas ever thus. The petty jealousies, ; selfishness, greed of praise, and greed of filthy lucre which occasionally characterise musicians are what bring contempt upon the art, and di3gust those who are enamoured of music for its own sake. It is consolatory to know that in the present instance the vain and venial musician,and the friend who blew the bellpws for him, have been foiled in their little game—a totally different gentleman being chosen as conductor pro lemporp j and despite their croakings, the Society is safo and sound as ever. Some of the Secretary's philosophic "good-nature" would, I fancy, not come altogether amiss to those baffled schemers who have not read aright the passage in St. Matthew—"Judge not, that ye be not judged !"

The quarrels of neighbours seem to spring from very trivial circumstances, and especially I have noticed under a new moon. Mr Tupper is of opinion, atleast he says so in his "probabilities," that Luna exercises a potent influence, apart from the tides, in the affairs of men, and of the tongue-gilted woman, too. This modern Philosopher believes that Luna is the dreaded luminary that looks with languid eye in the night-time on the slydoings of fast youngmen, and that finally at the lawn of i the millennium, she will rift away the wickedness of the earth (being the nearest planat), and afford permanent lodging fa

her bosom for evil-doers. Two in stances of angry outburst of passion havo como before Justices during tho last few days in exemplification of the weakness of human nature in relation to tea, tongues, and carrots. The first may be termed a domestic hubbub about the Muldoon donkey. ' Why are you like a Muldoon donkey?" was the question put to a middle aged married man outsido Abbott's Opera House. "I give it up," said unsuspecting William ; " don'jt know." " Why, because your better half is stubbornness itself," was the caustic reply. " Ha ! ha I" said William, "I'll give that to my wife when I get home." On reaching his domicile in Newton, the confident husband sat down to supper, and said to tho partner of his joys and sorrows : " Bessie, my love, do you know why I am like a Muldoon donkey ?" "Yes," said Bessie somswhat commisera tingly. " Because yon were born so." Words ensued—angry words—and William threw a tea-cup at his wife's head, and she retaliated by knocking him down with the tea-pot, A charge of assault was laid by wounded William, but the matter was ar ranged within the precincts of the Court, in consequence of another word in season from the acute Bessie, who convinced her husband that he would fail in pressing his case, and would prove unmistakably to the spectators and tho world at large through the Star that he was an ass.

The second instance was actually settled in Court, to the chagrin of a retired citizen, onco known as the "People's Champion," who may have his qualities, although a littlo lamo. He caino in contact with a woman of mind and a stickler for woman's rights. The bill in the window displayed the announcement "To Let," but when George proceeded to inquire within, and to give a small order for carrots, sago, and onions, the lady sharply informed him that "To Let" did not apply to her, for ehe was not in in the market. She rejected his offer with dignified scorn (I have only her word for this), and she pushed Inquirer out of-doors, and seized his oaken Btaff. He did not leave immediately, for the most reasonable of reasons—ho could not walk without his friendly staff. He ÜBed coarse language, it was said, but this was em phatically denied ; he could not be so in discreet to a lady, Theresa, a pretty, laughing, Irish girl, swore that George used language which her modesty would not allow her to repeat. This was denied on the other hand by an elderly, independent gentleman, who had no interest in the quarrel; he acknow ledged that he was deaf on one side of the. head, and could not hear very well on the other. The case was therefore decided in favour of complainant, and the friend of tho people was left to pay the piper and muse over the glorious uncertainty of tho law.

xxx Her Majesty's Opposition in the local House of Representatives, writhing under the sting of porsonal banter from the occu pants of the Treasury benches, ore consolidating their forces for a icrioa of determined reprisals. They have been referred to as "venerable fossils of tho paloozoic age of politics ; " the Beauty locks upon some of their pates hare been dragged in as presumptive evidenco of the severity of that "Home Rule" which has caused them in mortal fear to oppose the extension of the franchise j and one hon. punster has been recommended to rosign in favour of " his much bettor half," and relieve her of such domestic avocations as feeding the baby, peeling the homely spuds, and scrubbing the lloors. The patience of Job himself could not bo maintained undor tho incitement of such baso inrputatioti9, and hence it is that tho Opposition have determined to pour out in unstinted measure the vials of their wrath upon the devoted heads of the Ministry. So far tho lattor pursue tho oven tenor of their way undismayed by theso presajjos of approaching trouble. Their whips have counted nose?, and give them a majority of four or fivo upon the Abolition of Plural Voting Bill. Upon that otber policy bill, however, which proposos tho extension of the franchise to women, they discern the signs of probable defeat. On dit that the Premier (Mr H. H. Lusk) has sent tho Hon. Mr Ballanco (the real Nativo Minister) a copy of his bill "To Make Better Provision for the Administration of tho Waate Lands of tho Crown in New Zealand," with the intimation that, as tho Govornment had been unable to devise anything satisfactory in that fiold of legislation, this bill might suggest a way out of the difficulty.

MONSTER DIAMOND.

A Gem that Eclipses In Size the Host

Famous Stones Known.

A very extraordinary diamond of no less than 457 carats has, we are informed, been shipped from South Africa, and sold by a city firm to a syndicate of diamond mer chants. The colour equals, if not excels, that of the finest India diamonds, and in the opinion of competent judges it will cut to a perfect and lustrous brilliant. In drop shape it will weigh as nearly aa can be estimated about 220 carats, or in lozengo shape, briolette, about 300 carats. The brilliant will therefore exceed in weight all the historical diamonds. The Koh-i-noor weighs 106 carats, the Regent of France 136 carats, and the Orloflf, which was cut for weight, 195 carats. In size, colour, purity, and quality, it is expected to provo to bo tho most marvellous stone ever known. Mr Bryce Wright, 204, Kegent-street, London, writes to the " Times " with re gard to tho newly discovered diamond i This gem is of a blue-white, similar to the finest stones from the Jagerafontein mine, which is said to bo, and most probably is, the true locality of this gem. There is somewhat of a mystery attached to the true origin of the stone,and from the secrecy dis played at its first discovery it is not im probable it has teen procured through an "illicit "at the mine from which it is re ported to come. By the existing laws In connection with diamond mines, it is neces sary for persons to hold licenses for the traffic in diamonds, but the jurisdiction ex tends to only a limited circle. For in stance, in the Cape Colony proper the pur chasing and selling of gems is unrestricted, no such law existing. The Jagersfontein mine in the Orange free State has for some time been only partially worked, and I believe many diggers could tell a rueful tale of their unsuccessful operations. If this monster stone has been found and sold in a strictly legitimate manner, it seems astonishing that all the diamond world his not heard of this wondrous gem before. It seems also peculiar that it should have been consigned to this country by a Port Elizabeth house. If it answers to this description ag to colour and purity, and weighs 437 carats, it certainly will bo absolutely urique, and far outshine any other diamond known. The size, I need scarcely add, is not the primary con sideration ; in fact, there is a larger stone at present in London, but being nearly black, and the possibility of cutting a translucent gem from it very remote, its value is simply that of " boart," unless a purchaser may be found with a mineral ogical taste who will pay a fancy price to becomo the owner t f the " largest diamond known." But tho specialty of the new gem is its colour and purity. Keport says it wns purchased in the first instance for £15,000, and the syndicate now possessing it asks £200 : 000. Should it prove to be the wonderful gem repoisted, the latter sura is certainly not too high in valuation for such a marvellous and truly unique stone. —■" London Times."

Had Him There.

On an incoming Vandalia train was a family of five—a fat, good-natured man, his wife, a pretty but nervous lady, and gracious knows 'twas enough to make her nervous, the trouble she had with their three children. The eldest, a boy of six, smashed his hand by pulling the window down on it. A little later, the three-year-old, at a sudden jerk of the train, turned a somersault, bruising and gashing his head. Then the half-year-old upset tie alcohol lamp from the window sill which frightened the mother nearly into hysterics, which was the signal for all the children to set up in chorus. But during the next five minutes, when that half-dis tracted woman was trying to stop the music that fat man, from the seat back of her, looked on with never an effort—he was really charming in his complacency. When quite resigned again, his wife said Wftk a sigh : " I do know I have more trouble than any woman on earth,'1

" Oh, no, my dear, don't say that," answered Benedict, not moving hjs eyes from his paper. " I do say it!" she replied more stoutly, " There's no calamity could ever befal a woman which I have not suffered,"

" 6b, no, my dear; not bo badly as that. For instance: You are not a widow," be answered sweetly. She held her breath two seconds, and then retorted—and it made the.Sentinel man laugh the next hour to hear the shot: "I said 'calamity,' e|r,"

SPORTING.

PRINCIPAL RACING FIXTURES.

Netv SeoJand. Taranoki J.C. Spring , October 23 Wanganui J.C. Spring Nov. 2 Canterbury J.C. Molropolitun Nov. 11, 13,11) Oxford Jockey Club Mooting Nov. 10 Auckland X.C Spring Nov. U ?nehunKiv It.C. Spring November 22 akapuna J.C. Spring: Nov. 29 Wellington J.C. Spring Nov. 27 Wellington lt.C. Spring Nov. 23, 28 niiicdin J.C. Spiing Nov. 29. Dec. 1 Cambridge Spring Meeting Docembor 5 Thames J.l'. Summer December 20 and 27 Australia. V.It.C. Spring November 1, i, 6, 8 Dates of Nominations. Entries and Accep tances. Second Forfeit Melbourne Cup Oct. 28 Furl her payments N.Z. Cup and Derby... Nov. 1 General entries and acceptances A.R.C. Spring Handicap and Hurdles .. .. Nov. 7 Nominations four principal eventsTaka puua Spring .Meeting Nov. 7 To Correspondents. T.M. Leonora started six times last season, winning twice. Sport (Onehunga).—The Melbourne Cup Is run on Tuesday, the 4th of November; and the N.Z. Cup on the following Tuesday. L.C.P.—Anchorite ia by St. Albnns — Queon Mury; Meteor, by St. Albans—Deception. Both arc engaged in the Melbourne Cup. DISPUTE (Whangarei).—Zillah, the dam of Tas man, is by Peter Wilkins from a mure by Jersey, from Amelia, who runs back U> the celebrated W'biziiig. IXQUlsmvi:.—The only winners of the Mel bourne Cup who have started at shorter odds than Martini-Henry wore Don Juan, 3 to 1 ; and Grand Flaneur, 1 to 1. Cheater's price was 5 to 1. G.B.—Tho largest field that line started for tho Melbourne Cup Is 33, in Bi'icais' and Chester's yours, and the smallest 7, In Banker's. Archer and Lantern both took 3min. 52sec. to do the two miles in. which ia tho longest, mid Martini Henry's tlmo last year is tiie shortest, viz., 3min. SOleec.

NOTES BY HIPPONA.

Now that tlio Caullield Meeting has joined the past, nil attention of course is centred on tlio great Victoria Racing Club campaign, which commences at Flemington on Satur day next. The leading events of the afternoon are the Derby and Muribyrnong Plate, but it is the first-named race that we Aucklanders take the largest amount of interest in. Owing to the withdrawal of Garfield and The Broker, and the doubt about King's Own seeing the jxist, the event has been shorn of a deal of its attraction!, but nevertheless, thore aro yet sufficient left in to provide a fairly-good contest. Bargo still retains his position as first favourite, and on public form he' is justly entitled to it. His recent victories in the Hawkesbury Guineas and A.J.C. Derby were both performances of morit, but tho way he shaped in tho Craven Plato lias lost him a lot of friends, and there aro some who think one of bis opponents will bring about his downfall. For my own part, lam not of that opinion, and think that if Fonnelly lands him at the pout, with his best polish on, and ho Is tho selected one of tho stablo, ho will prove victorious. There has been a deal of talk about his stable companion Treraando boing the " joker," but so far tho weather-glass doea not point in that direc tion. That he is a good colt there cinnot be a doubt, as wo have proof in the way that he shaped in tho race for the New South Wales Hluo Riband when only half fit. His running in tho CaulKold Guineas I do not take much notico of, for it is agreed on al sides that tho ground was not to his liking und ho is bettor suited over a distance of ground. Rufus, got by King of the Ring from Princess Alice, is a candiduto that has shown his ability to gallop, and as he nan received tho support of his party, cannot bo altogether overlooked. Tho mucii-talked-of Silver King will have to provo his worth before I can stand him; but King of the Gipsies is in the hands of the clever Malua party, and may prove ono of the hardest to boat. Gratitude is a young lady I have a groat fancy for, and report hath it Sea Horse, who is boing trained at Ballarat, has a rare good show of winning, while I am also informed not to ignoro Lord Exeter, as he has improved a lot lately. On paper, however, the race looks n good thing for Bakqo, and the only candidate I think that will lower his colours is his stablo companion, as it is not at all unlikely that both will face tho starter's flag. The Una! forfeit is not due until Friday morning next, but the field will most likely be made up from tho following lot: —

Mr W. Branch's b c Silver Kino, by FiretKing —Scnoritn Mr It. Howie's eh c Sea Horse, by Kolpio— Claribol Mr J. Wliittingham'sich c Merkimu, by Argus Scandal—(JhiU'onioro Mr A. F. Smart's eh c Nkficallixa, by Golds broutfh—Cumllla Mr E. Do Mcatro'B br c PILOT, by Robinson ('rusoc—Cracker Jlr \V. It. Hull's eh c Loud Kxeter, by Julian Aver.nl -Tiara Mr R. U. Talbot's be Landsuohol'qh, by GoliSb brough—Maldcn'n liiusti Hon. J. white's b c llakuo, by Marlbjmong- Guelder ltoso Hon J. White's br o Tiucmando, by Tho Teatur -Agitation Mr M. Jacobs'g b c Rufub, by King ot tho Uinß —Princess Alice Mr P. Heywood'B bo Lbpokei.i.o. by Don Giovanni—AitVctation Mr It. Lovo's br I Hklk.ve, by Conntryman— Tinflnder Mr W. Gordon's eh f Sandal, by Winterlako— Instep Mr J. 0. Inulls's br o Kino ok tiik Gii-sibs, by (limn- Forward—Blaok Gipsy Mr G. Davia'a b c David, by The Oondolior— Alice Drew Mr J. It. Co cell's br o Smocco, by Placator— Zephyr Mr K. Wcekß'g br c The lionmiiAN, by Marlbyr nong—Nina

A largo number of horsoa aro out In the mornings at Ellerslie, but tho work so far has not been of a very interesting nature. From all accounts Carbineer is the mo?t forward of the lot, and Radames is al?(> looking well. Snider (full brother t;> Krupp) has grown into a nico colt, and i.» looking big, but Mystery moves very short in her work. Among the others who have beon oat are Libeller, Tetford, Satanella, St. Leger, Woodnymph, ar.d a number of two year-olds. Slider and Larrikin aro being schooled to the jumping business. On Tuosday next, the. second forfeit of £5 is due for the Melbourne Cup, or the nominator will be liable for the balance of the sweepstakes. This will be the means of considerably reducing the field, and give backers an idea of stable intentions.

The New Zealand Stud Company's marc Amohia (dam of Tigredia) has produoed o fine filly to Anteros. She goes to Leolinus this year. Mr W. Percival's Prunella dropped a filly to Sterlingworth at the end of last week, but it died soon after birth.

Mr A. Snider, of Victorian Tattersall's Club, Melbourne, wishes to inform his local clients that when sending wires to him, they must make them " reply paid," or for tho future they will be ignored. A cablegram from Melbourne conveys the unwelcome intelligence that Martini-Henry has beon withdrawn from all his engage ments at tho V.X.C. Spring Meeting. No information is given as to the cause, out the Auckland-bred colt must be all to piecos, or he would never havo cut such an inglorious figure as he did in the race for the Cuullield Cup on Saturday last. The news will be very unpalatable to local backers, many of whom have supported him at short prices to repeat his last year's victory in tho great Flemington two-mile race.

Captain Russell's mare Leonora, ar rived at Christchurch on Thursday last, for the purpose of taking part in the New Zealand Cup contest. From what I hear she is in first-class fettle, and if nothing goes wrong with her on the day, sho should render a good account of herself with such a nice racing impost as Bst Wally Clifford I understand has been en gaged to ride tlio daughter of Leolinus, so that she will lose nothing in the matter of horsemanship. Pearl, the winner of the Hawke's Bay Guineas, and Marksman have also arrived at Christchurch to fulfil their engagements at the C..T.C. Meeting. Although Blink Bonny'a win in the Caul field Cup would be all in favour of the fielders, the_ Auckland ring did not escape without being "taken down." Three of their number laid fully £300 against tie winner, an Aucklandor taking two of thorn down for something like £250 on behalf of a Dunedin sport. During last week there was a very hostile demonstration in Melbourne against Bargo for the V.R.C. Derby, and at the loading betting-room on the night of the loth, af teT -2 to 1 had been laid, 7 to 4 was offered with out takers. A couple of hours later, 2to 1 was again taken, and afterwards- freely offered against him, and offers' were made to take sto 1 that he would not start; 10 to 1 was offered about any other. The next morning there was a large attendance of on lookers at Flemington to ascertain the cause of the "knocking out," and when the colt Btepped on the track every glass was turned op him. The son of Maribyrnong 4id a gopd seryipeable gallop, and pulling tip sound as a bell, resumed his old posjtion during the day, and 6 to 4 was the best offer to money against him when the steamer left. The papeis record that £1,200 to £800 has been laid in one hand against Bargo winning the Blue Riband, the taker being Mr A. R. Robertson, the now notorious owner of The Broker. '

It may not be geperally known that the evsiwhile Gross-conntry horse Quamby, who, I believe, i.-< doing stud duties in thfi ' Canterbury district, i* out of Medea, the dam of the Cuuliiold Cup winner Blink Bonny. From papers to hand, 1 notice that 100's to I! were taken about Mr TalboVa mare in Melbourne on tho Kith, so that it is very evident somouno has quietly won a bit by her victory. Lord Wilton, the runner up to Blink Bonny, was also supported on tho same date to win £14,000.

It is only a few days ngo the cable in formed us that Mr J. Hammond's colt St. Gaticn, ono of the dead-heaters for tho Epsom Derby, had won tho great Ce&are witch, and now we havo the news that an ol licr representative from liis stable, in tho shape of the four-year-old mare Florence, has proved victorious in the Cambridge shire. Truly, Mr Hammond is a lucky man, and the amount, of money won by him this season over Florence alono must be something enormous, for she placed to her credit in June last the rich Manchester Cup of 2,oooscvs., and only last month won the Two-mile Jubileo prize of 2,000 guineas run for at fiaden Baden.

Mr P. Butler is having a lot of bad luck lately, for we have the news from Christ church that he has been compelled to scratch his three-year-old colt Charmer for all en gagements at tho C. T.C. Spring Meeting. The iirst day's racing at Caullield was run in heavy rain, and it had the effect of making the going very heavy. Sandal, tho winner of the Guineas, started at the out side price of 20 to 1, and so lightly did her owner estimate her chanco of appropriating tho event that lie wired over from Adelaide to scratch her. As she had taken her departure for tho scene of action before tho tolegrnm was received, it was decided to start her, though had thoro being any additional paymont to mako, the maro would certainly not have gone to the post. English papera to haud by tho mail this weak bring us full particulars of the running for the Doncaster St. Leger. Tho Lambkin, who was ridden by J. Watts, started at the nice odds of S to 1 against him ; Superba, who occupied third place, being favouritoat 7to 2. Sandiway was only defeated by a length for first honours, and had she not been interfered with in the race, thereby boiog noarly thrown on her head, would havo made a much closer right of it. Im mediately after the race was run, a pro test was lodged against Tho Lambkin on the ground that he was improperly nomi nated, but it was quickly overruled. The value of tlio stakeH was £4,300.

Mr J, Wilson's colt Ringmaster, by King of the Ring—Yardley, won the Groat Foal Stakes at tho Caulheld Meeting. Ocista, the property of Mr J, Whittingham, and ridden by George Williamß, was second, and Mr W. Margin's Umbra, third. Precious Stone (full brother to Turquoise) again proved that bo was uo duller by defoatinga high-class field of IS in the Toorak Hanui cap. Mr A. R. Robortson, tho recent addition to tho rank of Victorian horse-owners, soeniH to have more monoy than brains. Ho not only backed Coulstoun to win tho Caulfield Cup for £40,000, but engaged a 11 special tram" to bring the horse from his country quarters to the convincing ground. Tho Alcock billiard tournament for the championship of Australia took place during Caultiold Cup week, and resulted in 11. Kvans, of South Australia, winning easily.

Thore were three heats, Evans's opponent in tho final being F. Weiss, who was in Auckland a short time back, but when tho former had tcorcd 1,000, WeiHs had only put together 4117. Evans' greatest break was 171, and that of Woiss 105. The winner's superiority was manifestly in tho i>pot stroke. Tho other competitors bo lides tho two mentioned woro J. Jumec, J. Byrne, and 11. Albors. Looking over my records tho othor day. [ came across come information concerning liow tho Melbourne Cup "favourite" has fared in years pact, and its reproduction at this season may not provo unprofitable to my readors :— 18S3-Martlnl-llenry. won. 1882—Sweet Wlllimn, nowhere. I»Bl—Darobin, not placed. 1880—Progress, seramd. 1879-Suwarrow, third. 187H-Melitu, nowhere. 18'7—Savamika, Becond. 137U— Keu d' Artifice nowhere. 1875—Iniperiul, nowhere. 1871—Uoldshrougli. nowhere.

1873—Don Juan, won.

A rather ciniouß " sweep" has boon made in Moscow in reference to English race horses. Tea gentlemen have formed a sweopstake of roubles to tho amount of £100 each to namo the best homo now in training on the English turf above two years old. They drew for priority in choice of naming, tho judgo to bo some gentleman not owning either of tho horses, und his decision m bo uccepted as tinal and givon by July 23rd.

CONDENSES ITEMS.

Reginald U under a cloud. Navigator is likely to be put into work

again. Off Colour is reported to be in great form at St. Albans.

Guesswork has a good outsido show o! winning tho Melbourne Cup. Sweet William and Wallanpra have beei scratched for tho Melbourne Cup.

109 nominations have boen received for tho A.J.C. Summer Cup, run on Boxing Day. Mr A. Town, of tho Richmond stud, holds his annual yearling sale on tho 25th of January. It is anticipated tho Hawko's Bay Jockoy Club will clear between £600 and £700 over thuir Spring Meeting. Thero has been a lot of bad woather in Molbourno of lato, and it has sadly inter fered with training operations.

St. Gatien, the winner of the Cesarowitch was a good deal fancied for that event a last advices. His weight was Sat 101b.

It is said that up to tho end of but week Anchorite had boen backed to win more money than any horse in tho Melbourne Cup. Sir Modred is doing first-clans work at Fluminglon, and it is stated that he will bu hard to boat in anything for which ha starts.

Molodious, by Goldsbrough—Melody, has been heavily supported for tho Maribyr nong Plate, and is now one of the best favourites.

Gonoral entries and acceptances for the C.J.C. Spring Meeting, and payments for »he N.Z. Cup and Derby, aro due on Satur day next. *• Nemo " says the inpro ho sees of War wick tho less he likes him, and thinks that ho has lost some of the pace for which he was remarkable as a two-year-old.

Mr F. G. P. Loach, who at one time con tributed the turf gossip to the " Canterbury Times " under the norn de plume of " Tho Druid," died at Christchurch last week.

Since IS6I the weights allotted to colts in tho Doncastor St. Leger havo been Sat. 101b, and to fillies Sst. 51b. This year they were altered to—colts, 9st. ; fillies,' Bst. 111b.

Salvo has boen scratched for the V.R.C. Derby. Mr W. " Noil, " who was reported to have bought him, states that he is neither directly nor indirectly interested in tho colt, nor is he aware who is his new owner.

Tho salo of the Fernhill stud, including the sires Darobin and Vespasian, will be held by Mr Clibborn, betwoen the Hawkos bury and A.J.C. Autumn Meetings, about the last week in March or beginning of April. Over one million tips have beon sont to the " Otago Witness " office for the £100 prize offered by " Ada Mantua " for the first person who succeeds in correctly plac ing tho horses for the Melbourne Cup this year, Tho Hon. W. Pearson's Plausiblo, who has beon so heavily backed for tho Mel bourne Cup, is described as a wiry-looking customer, rather on the leg, and from his appearance alone would hardly be taken for a Cup horse. On the last day of tho prosent month, Messrs W. C. Yuillo and Co. havo been authorised to dispose of all the horses owned conjointly by Mossrs J. Wilson and VV. Branch. Off Colour and Silver King are amongst those to be offered.

The erstwhile Now Zealand pencillor Harry Prince has imported to Melbourne the well-known gioyhound Lancashire Lad from the celebrated stud of Mr Briggs, of Blackburn, Lancashire, which has furnished so many good dogs for tho English Waterloo

She Wanted to Shoot Him.

From South Australia cornea a rather start ling contribution to the familiar story of a woman's weakness and a man's wiles, the recreant being a trooper named Power, and the heroine a young girl named Margaret Grace McNamara. She was arrested at Quornforhaving threatened thelifeof Power (who is alleged to have wronged her), and was discovered in the dress of a bushman, under which disguise, with a packhorae, and furnished with loaded pistols, she bad traversed a distance of 1,769 miles in search of tho false-hearted trooper. If the motive for her behavicm- be really such as is sta ted, then, except for the further trouble which would not perhaps havo been en tailed on the poor girl herself, it would not perhaps have been a matter for much regret had she used her pistols.

FIELD SPORTS AND AQUATICS.

(BY ACT-TOW.)

CRICKET FIXTURES.

October 25— Auckland Ist v. fiorrton Ist (con tinued). Alpha Ist v. Alpha 2nd (continued), West End Ist v. Vagabonds (continued), Auck land 2nd v. Gordon 2nd, Auckluid United v. Otahuhu (I'Oiitinued), United Warehousemen v. United 2nd, Our Boys v. Newton, Newton v. United 2nd. November 1 —West Knil Ist v. Gordon Ist, Gordon 2nd v. Auckland 2nd. Alpha Ist v. West End 2nd, Auckland ißt v. Otahuhu (at Ota lnihn), United v. Our Bovg, Warehousemen v. Parnoll, United 2nd v. 1 Zingari. Newton Ist v. Avondale. Novemhor 8-CSordon Ist v. Wost Knd Ist (con tinued), Gordon 2nd v. Nntlonnl, Alpha Ist v. Untied 2nd, Auckland Ist v. Otahuhu (continued, at Otahuhu). Auckland 2nd v. West Knd 2nd, United v. Our Uoya (continued), Warehouse men v. Avondale, Alpha 2nd v. I Zingari. November 15—Gordon Ist. v. Warehouses ; Gordon 2nd v. West Knd 3rd ; Alpha Ist V. United lBt; West, Knd Ist v. Auckland ; Auck land 2nd v. Westßnd 2nd (continued). United V. Alpha, Our Hoys v. Newton, I Zingari v. National. Novembor22—Gordon Ist v. United Ist, Gor don 2nd v. United 2nd, Alpha Ist v. Auckland 2nd. West Hnd Ist v. Auckland Ist (continued). Auckland 2nd v. West End 2nd, Our Roys v. Newlon (continued). I Zinguri v. West hnd. November 29 —Alpha Ist v. Auckland 2nd. United lft v. Gordon Ist (continued), West End 2nd v. Gordon 2nd, West End Ist v. Auckland Ist (continued), I Zingari v. Warehousemen, Newton v. Otahuhu.

AQUATIC FIXTURES.

November B—Oponlng of the boitins season. November-N Twl.h Shore Trinl Fours. Novembi r 9-Whnu Kiver Regatta. January *J—Auckland Annual ltoirutta. February 7—Haul.n v. Cltltbrd, £uoou-Rldc. Knbrunrv 28-Clifrord v. Beach, «Cou-nido March 28-Haitian v. Beach, £.000 a-sldn and championship of the world, on the I'uratnutui Itivor. April I"—Clifford v. Hnnlnn (if tho former is Victorious |n bis match with rlrnch). Clifford v. Teenier, £500 a uldo.

CYCLING FIXTURES.

Auckland Bicvcu: Cr.un Huns. October 25—Krom top of Upper Que«n-slrcct to Mount Albert, Three lUnze. and Oiiehiiiijja.

Ponsoniiv Rowing Club's crews are in POtive training for the Whan Regatta.

Jem Maco's eldest son, Arthur, is now traveling in America as a revival preacher.

Shaw's Eleven will probably play a Nor wood and Kensington Association team on the Kensington Oval on November 10.

Professional rowing (says tho " Bulletin") in England in still at a very low ebb, and Buboar has joined the ranks of the ready monoy bookmakers on tho turf.

Thomas Stovons, an English bicyclist, has just completed a journey on his bicycle of ,'i,f>oo mile.-} right across the American continent.

North Shore Rowing Club's now string* test arrived from Sydney by the Wairarapa on Wednesday. Sho ia expected to give satisfaction.

Teemer and Hoamor have made a match to row three milon, Ho&mor being allowed a start of five seconds. Th* winner is to take two-thirds of tho gate-money.

It is possible that Beach and Clifford may moet at a Sydney regatta to be held on November 10th, a prize of £100 being offered for two or more of the premier oarsmen.

There U a good d«al of work going on in the different bout.sheda, but thore is nothing of which I have not already written requir ing special remark.

Th« Wairoa crow, which won ono of tlio whaleboat races lactyear, aro likely to haro a boat built and entered lor tho Auckland Regatta.

It is expected that tho McLean brothers, now at Wellington, will be included in the l'oneonby wlialeboat crow at tho Auckland Regatta,

I have noticed a largo number of racing dingies out during tho past week, and coming races should consequently find tho boys well propared for great strugglca.

The yacht Jossio Logan has received a thorough overhaul at Logan's North Shor« yardß, in preparation for tho present boating season.

Wost End Rowing Club's new boat hai not yet arrived, and things generally ap pear in a very backward state, so thut moinbers cannot feel by any means satisfied at the prospects for the coming season.

It was recently rumoured in London that the 1884 season was 1. I). Walker's last on tlio cricket field. Ho was captain of the Middlesex for years, ile will be visiting New Zealand shortly.

David Godwin and Georgo Perkins on tho ono part, and George Bubear and John Largnn on tho other, have Bignod articles for a double sculling raca from Putney to Mortlake, on October 4, for 1100 a side.

Collier won tho English professional ono mile swimming championship. Time, 2Smin. lO^secs., which is tho best on re cord, tho previous be«t being 2!)miu. 27Ascc. Tho race was won oasily by 46'Jsec.

Walter Jones's new yacht, the "Mashor," was launched from Btiiloy's yard on Satur day afternoon hu>t, and subsequently ehe had a trial in tho harbour. She in a hand some looking boat.'well put together, and a credit both to builder and owner.

Tho oponing of tho boating sea«on did not take place last Saturday, owing to the very boisterous Btato of the weather. It will take place on Saturday, November 8.

The South Australian Cricketers1 Associa tion last year had 521 members, one guinea etifh. That guinea gives each member and n liidy tho privilego of entry free of charge tn the ground on all occasions. Last year fio receipts wore £2,2G5 16s 4d, and tho expenditure £2,295 17s lid. The present indebtedness of the Association is i.t',<>:{s 12n lid, but as an asset thoro is a well-turfed and properly appointed cricket ground.

" Age cannot withnr nor custom stale " tho veteran Alfred Shaw. Playing with his county, Notts v. Gloucestershire, early In lact Augußt, ho performed a wonderful bowling feat. In the first innings he secured three wickets in three consecutive balls, and at another period of th« same innings bugged three more in four balls. In the second innings the old Notts bowler again per formed the "hat triok," three good bats men being dismissed in consecntiro balls. For his excellent bowling Shaw received a special present from tho Notts committee. —"Sydney Mall."

A large number of cricket matches have been arranged for November ICtli. Tho tnost important will bo a contest first eleven selocted from all Association Clubs against the next sixteen, the objoct of tho pro moters being to bring out any new men who are likely to strengthen the Auckland repre sentative team, as an eleven from Otago is expected to tour tho colony during the present season. It is estimated that there are fully 2,000 cricketers in Auckland, and as many of them are unable, from business engagements, to take place in tho matches on Saturday afternoons, these public holi days are looked forward f o with pleasure by all knights of the willow and trundlers of the leather.

Sculling Championship of New Zealand. The agreoment for tho Champion Scull ing Kace between Hearn and Harrington states that it shall be a straightaway scullors' race, over a course 3J miles in length; the men to row in best and best boats for the sum of i'loo aside and the championship of N.Z. The referee shall have power to postpone the match from day to day should he consider that tho state of the wind and water will not permit the race to be rewed with fairneps and safety to both parties. Tho race to be rowed according to such of the laws of boat racing as aro settled and approved by the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge and 1 the principal boat clubs in London, on 2Sth March, 1872, and are applicable. Tho first deposit of £25 is to be placed in the hands of the stakeholder at the time of signing tho agreement, the second deposit of £25 on the 2nd December, and the final deposit of £50 on the 26th December. Tho referee shall have entire jurisdiction over tho race from start to finish, and his decision shall bo final, and subject to no appeal at law or otherwise. Eithor party failing to comply with any of these conditions shall forfeit all money down in the hands of the stake holder. The referee is to bo appointed ut tho time of the final deposit. The start shall bo by mutual consent, and if the men do not start within ten minutes of coming to tho post, they shall be started by the referee. Harrington agrees to allow Hearn £25 for his expenses, Great interest is being taken in the event both in Welling ton and at Iliverton.

BURNING OLD LOVE LETTERS.

I take them with reverent finecrs, These tokens of passion now dead ; Tho lines full of tonderest yearning, Through which your love eeomed so bo burning, Can move mo as when first 1 rend. I know love is now stranger to üb. Our paths in tho world ne'or will meet, And yet as I burn thoRO old lettprs I wisli'oncp twain for the fetters You broke, though I thought them so sweet. And now nothing's left to remind mo Of tho days when our love was bo true, but ttill as I Raze through w« t lushes At I ho fire, whore smoulder the ashes, I sigh for the past-ani for you. I —Frou the "Boston Transcript,"

THE GARDEN.

Calendar of Operations, October 25.

[By llortcw.]

[llortus is willing to answer any queries. Cor respondents must givo their full names and addresses, though not for publication.]

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Cuken Ki.y (Memo, Auckland).—This is one of tho moit troublesome enemies of pot plants. You can got rid of it by unclosing your plant in an almost air-tight i>u\ ami forcing tobacco smoke into the l«i>:. or l>y syriiiKini? your atlectcd plants win, I .foaeco walcrauuutlhree times a week. In fuel, mo ;t insects will sue numb under frpqiienr. applications nt tobacco wator if use! in the eioninfj and syringed with clean water in Him iimmlug. Asparagus (Vegetable). — Tlio rule among asparagus growers i* lliat nuiia should, be cut Hie ilrst year nflov n lied vm planted. The second ymir only cut. the strongest spurs. allowing all the other* to run to seed. The third season the lied should bo in first-class condition for cutting. Give a good sprinkling of salt to your bed; this will kill the weeds and do good to the young asparagus plants. Vines (Vinery).—l wou'd only leave one bunch on each spur, and on weak spurs I would not crop at all. A bunch on cuch spur would be a very heavy crop it your cunes arc regularly and closely found with spins. Don't use any liquid manure yet; it is time enough when the fruit is beginning to swell: when they commence to colour Ihe use of liquids must cease. Pinch two eye? beyond where the bunch of flowers is Knowing. Oranges (Orchard).—l natinot my that I over tusled a fully ripened and fully flavoured orantfe grown rn.nr Auckland; there was always a strong ueid flavour with them (except in a few of the mandarine). The rcieon thnt 1 would givofor ihis is that the orange usually ripens its fruit too late in the Beu-<oii. the nun's rays not being very strong at that period to fully flavour the fruit; besides at the sumo perion tha.'o W too much moisture. All fruit grower* are aware that too much moiftturu o.ther in ihu soil or air while fruit is ripening nmkeur almost impossible to get well-flavoured fruit. Su -.I'lOWKit (Ignorant).—You ran no .v i ow your need out. in th.i open garden. When the flower* are wonted early it is usunl to start them under gla^s, but when they arc grown for an ordinary crop the ceo Is aro ulwutb sown in Uib open, row about llrteen inches apart where they aro to grow. Any good garden soil will do. Jlauuio well with stable or cow litter whiln working over the ground. Dig do;p and put tho ma nure in the bottom of the tronoli. The sun flower ia a very heavy feedor, and requires Btrong food. Last season I grew a good number, and found when the seeds were in a sofr, milky state the birds becamo very fond of thorn. I had to tie a piece of paper over each flower, so as to protect tin m till they ripened. If thore are any birds in your district, make a noto of tho above.

Kitchen Garden.

Mom of the vegetables sown and planted will now bo making rapid growth. Those which wero sown will require attention by thinning them out, so as to give sufficient space for thtir perfect growth. Continue the transplanting of cabbage, cauliflower, and lettuce ; earth up thoso that aro suffi ciently far advanced. Plant out all the late wops of potatoes ; earth up tlio advancing early crops as they advance. The soil be tween the rowß of advancing crops should be kept continually hoed, so as to keep down woods and permit a better atnios fheric action to the roots of tho crops, 'lant out tomatoes, melons, cucumbers, marrows, and pumpkins ; after planting, give a good watering ; then lime heavily all round the plant; take two light willow wands, and make a bow over each plant ; then take an old newspaper and put ono over each plant ; havo a little soil on the odge.i of tho paper, so as to keop it in position. Tho shade of the paper will screen and shelter tho plants from the weathor and sun till thoy got established. Earth up peas as they grow—sow for suc cession ; sow kidney and running beans ; limo frequently for slugs,

Flower Garden.

Continue the sowing of annuals, thin out those sown early in tlie season, plant out a few of the more tender varieties raised under glass ; see that thoy aro properly hardened oil" boforo putting them out. All hardy bedding plants should be plantod out in their positions as soon as possible. They ought to bo out so as to get them established and growing before the hot, dry weather gets in. Hoses, mulch with sour manure, syringing with tobacco water or soap-suds so aa to keep the fly under. Con tinue planting out bulbs for succession ; stake and tie those that require it. Regu late and pinch growing plant?, never allow ing one or two shoots to absorb all the sap to the detriment of the others. Many of the early spring favourites will be showing a [rood deal of (lower now; therefore, keep every thing neat and clean, bo that the display may bo as effective as possible. Walks— hoe, rake, and roll. Lawns—cut the grass frequently, and apply a heavy roller in often as convenient.

Greenhouse.

Continue re-potting the permanent plants as they grow, and fill these pots with roots. Coluus, mid other cuttings which aro struck, pot oft into small-size pots, using a manure of sand, leaf mould loam, and well-rotted manure. Look after ily and other insects ; keep them under, either by syringing with tobacco water or by Bmoking, Give plenty of air during the day in bright, sunny weather. Water in the ufternoons ; Byringe whun closing up tho house, taking care not to touch any of the flowers with water, as water soon destroys them.

Thinmno Vegetables and Tilling Root CROPS.—Where vegetables have been sown in their permanent places, it is usual to sow more seed than is required for tho crop. A judicious thinning out must take place, allow ing just Buflicient room for eaoh plant to mature. Where crops aro left too thick, the individual vegotablos cannot swell to tho proper dimensions, thereby greatly ro ducing the weight and quality of the crop. Again, tho after tillago of euch crops must bo made a prominent feature. Stirring, loosaning, and pulverising the soil, making it into aline tilth, lotting in the air to tho roots, should be frequently practised, at the samo time destroying all weeds. Where soil has been properly trenched andmanurcd, and the above necessary functions properly performed, good crops will invariably onsuo. Without those, no satisfactory results ought to bo expected.

Application of Manures. — Among gardeners and farmers there is a growing realisation of the fact that in the application of artificial manure especially, a more in telligent and practical system must bo fol lowed. The waste attending the indis criminate method of giving the samo kinds of manure to all sorts of crops is beginning to be understood to some extent at leaßt, and to those who are working so earnestly to this end all credit ts due, if they are a little over-zealous at times. Where ordinary farm-yard manure from all sources is used, it it perhaps not of so much consequence under a judicious system of rotation of crops, but it will not do in the case of ex pensive artificial manures, which are be coming more extensively used every day ; and even our large corporations are turning their attention to their manufacture and sale on an extensive scale. Until we realise fairly that plants, like animals, need different kinds of food, or at least different proportions of the same food, wo shall not be ablo to feed them properly or economi cally. Both plants and soils vary in-their wants in this respect, raid it is really an analysis of both that is required by the gardener and farmer more than anything elso. It is not propared manures that the cultivator wants so much as a receipt for their preparation, in order that he may bo able to make them himself to suit his pur pose, if suob a thing be practicable. At present there is nothing connected with gardening concerning which the gardener is so much in the dark, for in the application of many manures he really does, in many cases, not know whether he is doing right or wrong. The wants of cultivators aro not so varied or complicated that they mi^ht not be provided for that way. It seoms too much to expect either tho gardener or fanner to become a walking encyclopedia of chemistry, geology, and physiology, with the object of cultivating a few roots or a fow acres of land, and still fowor crops. It is not worth his while. Johnston's Agri cultural Chemistry and Geology is good in its way, but not popular ; probably not one farmer or gardener in a thousand ever heard of it.-—"Garden."

Improving Garden Soil.—To remove old soils that fail to grow good vegetubles, the best way is to have it drained, If such is not already done, threa feet deep. Then trench and bring up a small portion of the sub-soil to tho surface, more especially if such ground lias been trenched before. The deeper you trench the better. If there is plenty of long stable litter, put in plenty of this, burying only one spit deep. This 'Will enrich the sub-soil, and cause the roots of your crops to go deeper in search of food and nourishment. After the whole is trenphed and drained, and as it is wanted for cropping, spread on the surface plenty of well rotted manure, which is the best of all renovators, and without it in most cases it would b,e useless to lqak for gnod crapu. If the soils ftre hoavy cjay, plenty of lime has a good effect in assisting tho objeots in view ; also burnt rubbish of all sorts will have the effect of keeping it more free and open. Sand answers the same purpose. Those should be spread and workedinto the ground a*> it is wanted for cropping. They will give more porosity to the soil, a

freer passage for water in wet weather, and nt tho samo time make more ravifcies for the natural storaßO of air, which in certain quantities is essential for tho growth of vegetation. On the ofchor hand, sometime* the soils are too light and porous, and unfavourable for carrying good crops during the summer. Such soils have to be dealt, with in a somewhat different manner. Drainage might not be required at all, or only slightly. Again, to make them more retentive of moisture, the addi tion of large quantities of stiff clay will be of great service. The manures used also should, if possible, bo of a retentive nature, such us cow mauure, etc. Where these are not procurable, yivo plenty of liquid manures during the dry seiipons, thereby supplying moisture and manure at the same time. Another method employed to assist cropping on suth soils is by using plenty of litter in the way of mulching, when the crops have got established. Any long grass, straw, or similar materials spread over the surface of the ground between the rows of crops will assist in retaining the moisture, and give better chance of good crops. The above also apply to stiff soils during tho summer months. This litter, when it rots and the crops are taken off the ground, is simply dug in. It then assists in making more manure for the ground.

General Gordon's Religion.

Tiik exciting events in Egypt which may yet lead to general European complications, have withdrawn public attention for the time from General Gordon and the situation in the Soudan. Meanwhile a new phase of his character has been illustrated in Eng land by the publication of extracts from his diary and familiar letters to old friends, showing tho peculiar religious opinions which have marked his life and have had no small influence in maintaining the high standard of honour which he has preserved, even amid the temptations which beset a man who is given unlimited power in half civilised countries. It has long been known that Gordon was a religious enthusiast, and that the years which ho spont in topo graphical engineering in the Holy Land were devoted to a close and systematic study of the Bible, which is unusual in this age even among clergymen. It was known in a general way that he had identified, to his own satisfaction, many places in Jerusalem as the identical spots mentioned in the Old und New Testaments as the scenes of God's appearance on this earth; but until these letters and notes from his diary appeared, none would have believed that tho primitive method of regarding the Bible could have survived in this age of scepticism and critical analysis. Tho wcrk of editing the letters and papers of Gordon was intrusted to William Hurrell Mallock, tho well-known author of "The. New Republi9,"and one of the ablest of the new school of writers, whose creed is as nebulous as their style iB clear, who feel powerfully drawn toward the Catholic Church by many of its noble features, but whose faith is too weak to accept the doc trines which Catholicism demands that its followers unhesitatingly believe. Mallock is an accomplished literary artist.and he has made the most of the trust given to him. Ho says that when Gordon set out for Khartoum on his Quixotic mission,be did so with the conviction that he should never return. Therefore he wished to give to the world a message in regard to that religion which had been his comfort and sustaining power for so many years. He was moved still more to do this by tho melancholy feel ing that religion was ceasing to be an integral part of tho every-day life of English people, and was becoming something esoteric and ornamental. Hence, he has laid bare his inmost thoughts for the benefit of his age, and tho editor of these confes sions has skilfully wrought out of them the story of his creed, which he presents with remarkable lucidity, considering the diffi culty of his task. General Gordon may be said to look on the Bible and on the Christian religion as the anciont prophets did. To him all its promisesare as literal as are those of Moham med to the devout Mussulman. Ho believes in heaven and hell as realities,which can be located just as completely as the arab of the desert believes in houris and other dolights of the Moslem heaven which will greet his eyes after death. To the great mass even of believing Christians all tho religious terms in common use have taken mare or less of a metaphorical meaning. There are few men who look on hell with the eyes of the sixteenth century. Luther thought he saw the actual presence of the devil in his cell in the Wartbury trying to tempt him as he had once tried to tempt Christ, mid the doughty monk hurled his heavy inkstand at the intruder. Most clergymen of today would recogniso this as the result of disordered nerves—as one of those visions to which the mind is prone when the balance between tho mental and physical powers has been deranged, just as they see in the temptation of St. Anthony the legiti mate fruit of the repression of the natural desires, intensified by the solitude of the monastic life. But General Gordon, living in this age of science and discovery, has a mind of the medieval cast. To him all the arguments against tho literal interpretation of the Scriptures are as idle wind. He knows that every promise in the Bible will bo literally fulfilled, and that if men had the requisite measure of faith they would be able to see these things with the clear ness that he sees them. To him all the great achievements which have made him famous are mere byplay. The important thing is so to have lived as to have builded up a noble character and kept one's faith as simple aid unquestioning as that of a little child. Of course such a life must be free from all self-seeking, from all eager craving for wealth, distinction, pleasure. Not one man in ten thousand is able to enjoy him self in the country as he did when a boy ; the very capacity for enjoying simple pleasures has departed from him. So, too, not one in ten thousand has the spiritual faculty unimpaired, has the faith and simplicity of heart of a little child. Twice has Gordon been the supreme ruler of millions of meni gifted with the power of life and death, and endowed with the oppor tunity to make colossal fortunes out of his position, yet in each case he has retired a poor man, deeply conscious of hia many infirmities and weaknesses, although the world has been ringing with his exploits. The only thing which can explain such a phenomenal life is the spiritual presence behind the men, which has taken the sting from every disappointment and has kept sweet and pure a faith such as has not been seen in this world since the days of the early martyrs. And the world has yet to show a counterpart of this man, great in arms and in the ruling of semi-barbarous hordes, and yet with the spirit of an anchorite, destitute of ambition, greed, or love of power. , There is not space at our command to do more than refer to one or two of the salient features of Gordon's curious interpretation of Biblical prophecies and promises. The reader will find in the September number of the "Fortnightly Review " (and reproduced in the "Eclectic Magazine") the full presentation of Gordon's creed, and tho article is one which is well worth reading. He believes, as Dante did, in an actual hell; he locates Jerusalem as the holy place which God selected for ap pearing to man, and it* various physical features he accepts as symbolic of the Divine presence. He spent many months in careful topographical surveys of the city, and tho hill of Calvary, or, aa he calls it, the "Skull Hill," or "The Kock," is for him the historical pivot of the world. He accepts tho Arabic tradition that on this spot God made Adam out of clay. He believes that tine rock was the first land to emerge when the waters which originally covered the earth were gathered together into seas. The importance ascribed by Gordon to this landmark is shown by this summary of the part which he believes it has played.. "It was on this rock under which th.o fi,rst man lay buried that Noaji sacrificed to God when he first emerged from tho avk. It was on this rock that Abraham prepared to sacrifice Isaac j and it was on this rock that tho Son of God, the new Adam, was cruci fied, when the sacred blood falling on the ground literally touched the skull of old Adam, buried below." He thinks that the only salvation for man lies in baptism, which removes the taint in the human body left by Adam's sin. * ' *

There are many othev curious theories in the creed of this soldier-theologian, such us the existence of the living New Jerusalem above the old city of Palestine, which, at the last day, will descend to earth, while the river which once flowed in Eden will encircle the earth with a girdle of liv"„» waters. Many are fa.nci.ul and far-fetchod • others are as beautiful as some of tba legend? in the Talmud. All b O tvay am nd and character as unique «*fcw career One supreme virtue his creed possesses : It has entered »nta the very fibre of hia character ha,s; coloured hie life and influenced all his t^t^ Inan,'}8e has come We , tv°S?" erally a thing apart from real life, this virtue redeems many of its defects 1?w27 £ fr°M thß hareh which it would otherwise receive. Perhaps an in- S» f «>e unworldly epirit of PGor don would be a vast benefit to the most of our creeds-an antidote to the cynical Phariaaio spirit which sets religion apart for ceremonial on one day in th e week, and

GOSSIP FROM STAGE AND STUDIO.

(By EuTF.r.ri;.}

Camilla Ukso, having spent some time in Europe, has returned to Boston looking ex ceedingly well.

Emma Wangenheim is going to star again. The " Ma^cotto "is the p'tce ih rc> sulauce, and Howard Vernon is the tenor..

Grattan T.iggs has opened at the Sydney Gaiety in "Grasp," with Ethel Adcle as leading lady.

The joint, authors of " Claudian "—' Messrs Wills and Herman—are about to try their hands at another poetical drama.

The report of the Abbe7' Liszt's blindness, it is now sriid, was a ridiculous canard ap parently originated by some reckless French journalist pressed for sensational items.

It appear* that the love-lorn youth who drowned himself for the sake of Emelle Melville was assistant major-domo at a coffee-stall.

Rubinstein has chosen an extraordinary title for his next opera—"The Parrot's Nonsense." He is at present in Venice putting the finishing touches to his work.

An American prodigy, Ernest Shelling aged eight, ha 3, by the help of Ambroise Thomas, entered the Paris Conservatoire to learn pianoforte playing.

A rumour is once more circulated that Sir Arthur Sullivan intends to go in for grand opera in his next venture, and that Mr W. S. Gilbert will likewise abandon his quaintly-satirical vein.

Lippincott and Co. announce the com pletion of their " edition de luxe'- of the works of W. H. Prescott. The edition, which is in 15 octavo volumes, is limited to 250 copies.

Captain Burton hopes in February next to hand to the printer the first instalment of his translation of "The Thousand and One Nights." The first issue will consist of three volumes, one-third of the whole work.

A novelty has been produced in Berlin in the shape of a Liliputian Opera Company, the members of which range from twenty two to twenty-seven years of age, and from twenty-four to thirty-two inches in height.

The Philharmonic Society of London have offered a prize of twenty guineas for the best concert overture. Address the Hon. Secretary of the Society, 6 York street, Portman Square, London \V. Foreigners may Qnnpefce.

To the latest number of "Macmillan" William Archer contributes an able paper on "Twelfth Night "at the Lyceum, and in speaking of WilliamTerriss, who represents the Duke, says that he is "fatally beauti ful."

Mr DOyly Carte, manager of the Saroy Theatre, is about to abandon his post. He has arranged next winter to "engineer" through the States, Mr R. A. Proctor (who with his family intands to settle there), Mr Chaa. Bradlaugh and the Hungarian band.

More "shows!" People with noses of singular type may make money out of them in Austria. The winner of the prize lately was a gentleman who is the happy pro prietor of what is described as being "a gigantic nose of deep violet blue."

Franz Naumnnn, a young German com. poser, who last year drew publio attention upon himself through a fine pianoforte concerto, has just finished a tragio opera in three acts, called " Irmela," which is to be brought out at the Vienna Royal Opera House.

I am sorry to learn that Mr Richard Kohlor, proprietor of the last waxworks which visited Auckland, has been admitted to a lunatic asylum in San Francisco. Mr Kiihlor is a veteran musician, whose name is as widely known throughout these colonies as it is in America.

Largo orders are reaching the publishors for Mr Herbert Spencer's new book, "The Man versus the State." In the preface, Mr Spencer, stating the thesis of the work, sayj that the drift of recent legislation is towards " increase of freedom in form with decrease of freedom in fact."

The Rev. H. D. [Romestin is preparing for English readers a translat ion to accom pany the original Greek text of the recently discovered Greek manuscript, "The Teac hing of the Twelve Apostles." An intro duction and notes will accompany the text.

The famous dramatic poet, Garcia Gut tierez, died lately in Madrid. He wrote "El Trovador," which furnished the plot of Verdi's celebrated opera. The Nestor of German organists, C. A. Buchholz, died at Vienna, aged 88. The wife of the great tenor, Tambeslik, died recently in Paris.

According to a Sydney exchange, Oily Deering, the actor, has now a pub. out Waverley way, and it is rumoured that, when a brother professional enters, every hair on his head stauds upon end, hlg faca turns livid, his knees knock together, and his breath comes in convulsive gasps, as ha hoarsely murmurs, " We're just out of it 1"

The Hungarian " poet-musician," Edward Remenyi, had a reception at the concert of tho Melbourne Liedertafelsuchaa has never previously been accorded to any violinist in the Victorian metropolis. Hn is as a volinist what Ketten was as a pianist. Ha holds his audience entranced and bewil dered, now sounding the depths of pathos, and again raising their hilarity to the pitch of frolicsome school children.

A writer who has recently been play going in Japan says:—" The funniest sight of all was the prompter—an old man with horn spectacles-who moved about on the stegeas he pleased, sitting behind actora who had long speeches, and carrying an enormous 'book of the words with htm. When they 'cut'—as they did once— about two pages, it was a eight to see him perspire about the head."

An elaborate book, tho preparation of which has been suggested by the Queen, who has also taken the venture under her direct patronage, is in preparation in London. Its title is " Songs of the North " and its contents are to consist mainly of songs, the words and music collected in all parts of Scotland, and hitherto unpublished Magnificent illustrations are to ha a nrai mwent feature of the book.

According to the" Bulletin," the Clark andßymans (whom, apparently, no beetle poison can injure) have arrived at Wel lington. Th,s » amoosin' cues »of a writer may be interested to learn that the Clark and Ryman Company have got no further than the Thames, and that there has been a partial disruption of the troupe in Auck land. Miss Marion Melrose, Mr and Mrs F ord« »n. d Mr Percy Shannon, have JO, I" l e\rM^,, L? u\ se Cnrefontf Company, while Mr Tilly Lake goes on to SydneyV Mrs Henry Pott, Appleton Morgan, R. M Theobald! (a descendant of the famoua Shakspearean editor), and others [took stops in London the other day to organise a Baco Shakspeaiean Society, "to be com. posed of members believing in other than a Shakspearean authorship of the Pl ayß an d Poem,.' About 100 pc4 n 8 were present at the preliminary moating of the Society, which proposes to hold regular meetings and print the papers read before it on tU Societ Furni™l's New Shakspeaia

Dr. Hanslick, the Viennese critic has aa article n the " Gartenlaube," i" which hi X 0 PhT 8H° f the modern P»«w "SdJto which finds so many viotims, especially in the feminine world, HanslicFexpres^ the deepest pity for "all these young glri" fW s W"ke Piano-playin* the aim Ifrlfi' ?* t0 their wltencoS their small share of virtuosity. Without I^l they are doomed to regret having dj*

a^seco, S, g«POWC'. 8- Qf the Cflst formed quite * theTh" cai7«"*«<>nUi<ai. The fallacy of tt *f l °a i 8 "Ow «»Pl»™nt- In the lirstplaoe, the engagement of Frank Cates lu-Ji^ £T°, was' for many ««««* aS f ottwt M^ Gates is not a good ' actor_f ai . from it : he is a very good actor; , Nt beyond having the physical require- ' mente necessary for the part of Mr H.W Wg-ue, he is totally deficient in the matter Ot grasp, necessary for the part.

tq^^^IIJCKLAND"'EVENING STAR, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, 1884,



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