SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

ir ran wa'l'wh /This Evening, 10.49 H._l WAiKR { ro . lHOja . ovv ____,„_■, 11.12 ci y.IKT,— Thl< hivonin. 4:50 . M USE.-To-morrow Morning, 6.55 MO >N'S AG_-i_st Quarter, ISih, 4 33 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

Macgregor, s.s., Johnson, from Whangarei

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVKNINO.

Glcnelg, s.s., Stephenson, for Tauranga Rowerio, s.a., Norris. for Great Barrier

Throe Cheers, sell.. Bulkc, for Mercury Bay Annabel!, brig, Home, for Mongonui Funny Thornton, seh„ Keaiie, lor Hokianga Mary Campbell, brigantine, Brothers, for Grey mouth.

Vessels Expected.

London.—Doric, s.s., sailed May 1 ; Deva, barque, N.S.T.D., January 2i; Crusader, karque, H.C.L.8., February 7; Glance, barque, L.C.G.K, March 3; Lalra, barque, April 7; Glonrosa, ship, W.T.M.K.. March 18; Wanganui, ship, May 2; Otaki, ship, loading. New York.—Claribel, barque. W.M.S.K.(via Wellingonl. January 24; lreoe (via Duncdliu, March 31; Nettie (via Wellington!, loading. Java.—Manhegan. barque, sailed March 31 ; Maroon, barque, and Thames, barque, to follow. China.—Androklas, barque, early, San Francisco. — Senator, barque, sailed April.

Australia. — Clansman, brigantine, from Roekhatupton; Look Out, brigantine, and Adelaide, schooner, from Sydney. _Southkkn Ports.—Stanley, brigantine, from Ountarii: Yolando, Bch.. from Tlmaru.

South Sea Islands,--Louln, schooner, from Long Island; Ada C. Owen, brigantine, from Rarotongn.

IMPORTS.

Per Presto and Himalaya-3,520 sacks oats.— W. J. Hun*, and Co.

Inwards Coastwise.- Norah. from Kennedy Bay with3o.oooft timber; Opotiki from Whan garei, with 64 tons coal; Rose, from Mahurai igl, with 4a tons firewood. Outwards Coastwise. — Kriemhjlda, for Mongonul; Rose, for Mahurangi. The topsail schoonor Awaru arrived at Thames from Oamanl on the night Of the 11th inst Tho Waikato Coal Company's now steamer " hemaa Rusaoll has been docked for a cleaning, one will commence running on tho West Co .st nbout a weok henco. The a:s. lona is shortly to commence running between Auckland. Norfolk hdand. and Noumea. Captain Amodco will probably re main in charge. _ Tho barque Alastor has completed discharg ing, and will commence loading for London at once. The schooner Three Choers, for Noumea, via Mercury Bay; brig Annabel], for Sydney, via Mongonui; brigantine Mary Campbell, for Greymouth: and sundry smaller craft, took ad vantage of a favourable wind thia morning, and left the harbour. The ketch Reliance, from Whangaroi, bound for Ihamea, with coal, which put in hero owing to unfavourable weather on Wedneaday even ing, resumed her voyage this morning. ___ b_" _P. och Bredan was to havo sailed for London this morning, but was unable to get away for want of a pilot, all three being cn __S.W»l_ ,c' Ve- 380lS' She W|U moßt lik<jl>' Bail early this evening. The Macgregor arrivodfrom Whangarei last evening, with 21 cases fruit. In boxes butter, 37 sacks gum, 1 bullock, 3 crates fowls, 9 cases lemons, and 3 tons Bundries. Paaaengera- Mesars Motcalf Sloane, Campbell, Captain Smith, D McLeod Lennnn, Downing, McLeod _ a __.' Jlr ttlm Mrs Nicholson. Messrs Hannah. Mclvor. Grleo, Morgan, Crabtrea, Mra Abercrombie, and Masters Abercrombio (2).

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Melbourne. May 15,-Arrivcd, thia evening: Manapoun, from Blult Sydney, May 15.—Arrived: Tarawcra, yes terday afternoon. London, May 14.—Arrived at Plymouth, to day : Ruapehu. from Lyttelton. April 5, after a remarkably fast passago of 39 days, including stoppages. Whangarei, this day .-Sailed: Waltaki, for Auckland, 10 a.m.

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Star Office, this day. MR ALFRED DOCKLAND'S WEEKLY REPORT. At the Haymarket on Friday last fodder was somewhat advanced in value compared with that of the previous week, priceti being from 3s to Gs cwt.; oats were steady at 2a "d and 2s lid. llorsestock was mustered in good number, and prices realised fully kept pace with previous markets, although a great number of inferior animals were brought forward. Heavy draught, £25 to _:. The well-known cross - country horso General found a bu>cr at £10. On Tuesday fodder maintained the vuluos of previous week. The sales on this day are gradually growing, and will shortly bo, as extensivo as thoso on Fridays. Hides and skins were pitched in good numbers, and pasi-ed off at prices varying but little from Into values, tho tendency boing on tho improved aide. Hides, 3. ; calf-skin, 3}d to IJd; butcher skins, 2s 2d to _s7_ ; tuition skins. Is 9d to2s; tallow at good Inquiry. ti.scwt, AtThumpson Brothers'nale at Flat Bubh on Wednesday, implements and sundries sold at prices satisfactory to vendors. The hay-stack brought 525, and two straw stacks 33s and 15s. At Kemucra. on Thursday, dairy cattle were plentiful and sold at late values. Fat cattle wore somewhat scarce, and good beef sold at better prices. Sheep were in usual supoly with no noticeable difference in price. Pigs plentiful, and met witli good com petition. MESSRS HUNTER AND XOLAN'S REPORT. Horses: Thero has boon a good many brought forward, and the previous week's values were barely maintained. At the Durham \ards on Friday thero was a good muster, and many of them being strangers, there was a large attend ance, but prices ruled in favour of the pu» chuser, although there wasconsiderablefluclua ition. Wo quote;, Hacks, at from £6 to £15; light harness horses; from £9 to £15; Bpring cart horses, from £16 to £19 Ids. Wool, hidos, and «klns: Wool sold at tho Dnrham Yards for 5Jd to old por lb; hides, from 33d to 3. ; skins. Is 4d to 2s 7d; tallow, 27s por cwt. Cattle: The muster has been an average one, the demand steady, and scarcely any notowonhy alteration in value. At Nowmarkot, on Tuesday, there was ashorter numborthan usual yardcd.ThcdeHian.l was good throughout the sale. Thero seemed to be an indisposition to purchase high-priced dairy cows, bnt «8 was freely given, Fat beasts at the previous week's quotations. At Puke- Icoho, on. Wednesday, there was a good muster, both of stock and buyers, consequently tho sale, was a success!al one, and prleos were fully up to Newmarket rates. Sheep: Above an avcrago number were yarded, competition was good. Well fatted fully maintained the previous week's values, and stores ceuld have been . placed to advantage. Lambs sold at from 6s lid to 10s. Pigs: Very few yarded, ana there re mains an unsatisfied demand at 3d per lb., live weight.

AUCKLAND PRODUCE MARKET.

Farm and Dairy PRODUCE.-Wholesale: But t3r, fresh. Is; Butter, salt, 8d to lOd; Cheese, good local. 4d; Canterbury do., sd; Eggs, por o_„ 2a 3d; Lard, per bladder, 7d to 7Ja ; Bacon and Hama. Provincial, 6d to _; Hams, 8d to „; Canterbury Ham and Bacon In cloth, none; Hams only, lid; Jams, per case, 5d oz., £117s 6d to £1 18s 3d: Henay In bulk. Id per lb. Retail: Butter, fresh, Is 3d: salt do.. lOd to Is: Cheese, colonla_9d to lOd; Eggs, per doz., 2sGd; Lard, per lb, BdTo 9d; Bacon, por lb, lOd to Is; Hams, do,, Is to Is Id.

Flour Market. — Wholesale — Superfine flour, silk dressed, per ton, £1210s: do, do, house hold, £14108; hundreds, ss;nf ties. 10s per ton extra, sacks and bagßfree;Southern do,£ll to£1015s: bran, per ton, sacks included, local, £6 Southern, do, £6 ; sharps. £5 10s: cabin bread, do, £18; oatmeal, do. £14; maize. 4s 6d to sg; oats. Zs (id to 2e Ud; potatoes, £35s to £310s ocr ton: pearl barley, do., £23 to _4 ; bread, per2lb loaf,

Kauri Gum. Flax, &c—Tho market re mains unsettled. We quote: Poor ordinary, 333 to 10a; good »rdinary, 40s to 425; superior, lis; East Coast, £62. Produce for May, to date. 250 tens; flax per ton, £18 to £21: tow, do., £7 to £9: tungns per lb, 2. to 3d; eoeoanut fibre, per cwt, 15s to 17b ; beeswax, yd to lOu it).

Coai A_» Firewood Market.—Coal: New castle' (ship's side). 28s to 30s per ton; yard, 32s H) 355; Bay of Islands, at yards, 20s(id; screened, 30s6d; ditto at tho mlno, 13s Gd; ship's side, 2fis; Waikato, 8s to 12s; in Auckland, 18s to 225; Kamo, 12s por ton at loading ground; Taupiri at mine, Bs6d to i2s; at yard, 19s 6d to 225; Whangarei, at mine. 9s Cd; yard (steam), 17s; household, 21s; delivered, 233. Firowood: Uncut at whan (cargo), 9s to lbs per ton; delivered, 14s; cut, 17s to 18s.

BuiLDruo Materials.—Timber: Boards and scantling, 100 ft, best. He; second-class, |8s; best, planed, tongued, and grooved. flrßt-class, lisfid; medium. 12a; second ditto. 10s (id. Mills: Cargo.bcst,lls; second-class,ss 64; baulk, 8s Gd. New Zoaland palingß, sft (sap), IDs; sft (heart). 13s: Wt, Ms; ti-tree rolls, £3 10s per 10i; pnriri posts. £fi 10s to £7 10s; shingles. 16s per 1,000; Hobart paSngs, sft, 19s; 6ft. 21s: Hobart rails, 90s, selling quotations. Bricks (at Avond&le), 40s per 1,003; town yards,sostosss; dollvered.sss to 60s. Drain pipes (at works), per 100 (6 Inches bore), 10s; 4 inclu_, 14S; 3 inches,9s; 2inches, _ 10a per 1,000: socket glazed pipes, 19 inches; 2s 6d. por foot; 15 Inches, _ per foot; 12 inches. Is Dd por foot; 9 inches, Is psr foot; 6 inches, 6d per foot: 1 inch as, id per foot,

Manuues.—Bonedust, Sydney, £7 J_ to £810s, according to quality; bonenou. £910s; Auckland £7 to £8 10s: Peruvian guano, £18; Maiden Island, £8; Huon guano, small lots, £5 to £6, bags included; Hurst's chemical raanuro, £1 10s.

Chief Post .>_<•«, Auckland.

Mails will Clobh as UNDrcn: - This Day. For Thames, per Rotomahana. at 1 p.m For Wangareiiloads, Parun, Walpu, Wangnrel, Kamo. Tatißihua, and Mangapai, per Mae grogor. at 5 p.m. For Thames, por Annlo Milbnnk at 5.30 p.m. For Mangawai, per Ruby, at 5 p.m. Saturday, 17th inst For Hokianga. etc.. per An. 0, at 1 p.m. For New Plymouth. Wnnganui. and Southern Porta, por Storiubii d, at II a.m. For Waiwora, Mahurnngi, Matakana, Manga wai. etc.. per Rose Casey, nt i 0 v.in. For Waterford, Tauranga, etc., per Rotoma hana. at i p.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 1,30 p.m, Monday, 19th inst. For Waitara. etc.. per Douglas, at 11 a.m. For Coromandel. i>er Coromandel, at 11... a.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, Whangaroa, and Mongonui, per Glenclg, at a p.m. For Tauranga, Ohlnemntu, and Opotiki, per Wellington, at 5 p.m. For Whitiangi and Upper Mill, per Rowena, at 5 p.m. Tuesday, 20th Inst For New Plymouth and Southern ports, per Rot ma, at 11 a.m. Tuesday, 27th inst. Per Zealandia, as follows :— For Sanawien Islands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign Wcat Indies, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. For money ordera, registered letters and newspapers, at 11.30 a.m. Late lettcra, bearing an extra fee of six pence in addition to tin) postage, will bo received by tho Mail Agent on board tho steamer up to the time of sailing. This mail will bo duo in London on Sat urday, July 5, 1881. N.B.— The a.a. Glencroas will leave Lyttolton for Sydney direct on Saturday, 17th inst, nt 5 p.m. 3. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-office. Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

May 10, 1881. Abbott's Opera House—" Tho Rivals," 7.45 p.m. Lome street Hall—Lecture by Mr Charles Bright. "Charles Bradlaugh and the Present Strugglo in England," 8 p.m. Masonic Hall, Princes street—Opening of tho Albert Park Assembly, 8 p.m.

Notices to Correspondents.

W.W.—A cablegram sent urgent might, under favourable conditions, roath London and a reply bo returned to tho colony within eight hours.

Fair Pi.ay. — The correspondence has guno qtiito as far as ia useful. It has become a mere reiteration of propositions already ad vanced. Constant Reader.—An application to any subscriber to tho Dispensary will secure for a deserving case an order for medical advice and medicine. The Relieving Ollleer will also authorise such altondnnce when necessary. Subscriher,—The Rhone is the most rapid river in tho world, excepting, of course, somo Bitiall streams and mountain torrents. Constant Reader.—Tho fastest run made on English railways without stoppage li made on the Great Western from Paddlngtoti to Swindon, a distance of 77} miles, which is nn in Hi. 27m., or at the rate of 531 miles an hour. Really a greater feat, however, Is that per formed on tho Great Northern, by tho train from Kings' Cross to Grantham, a distance of 10. which is run in 2h. Int., or 51 miles per hour.

Births.

HONEYCOMr_.-On May 14. at Norman-st, Rocky Nook, tho'wife of William John Honoy combe of a son. Both doing well.

Deaths.

NABH.-On Saturday. May lOtli, at Ponsonby Road, Adelaide Fleet, second daughter of John Thomas and Ellen Nash ; aged 5 years, NAUGHTON.-On May 14th. Michael. Hie beloved huaband of Catherine Naughton, aged 39 yeara. Deeply regretted. The funeral will leave the residence of Mr James Storey, Grey-street, on Saturday at 3 o'clock (not on Friday, us advertised in Wed nesday's issue). Friends please accept thia invitation. R.I.P.

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

FRIDAY, MAY 16, 1881.

For the causo that lades assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future In tho distance, And tho geod that we can do.

Thoughtful people who look more to practice than theory have asserted against the doctrine of Land Nationalisation that it would prove utterly unworkable bocuuso the inherent corruptibility of human nature would inevitably come to the surface in those entrusted with such vast powers of administration. The samo objection would seem to hold good with regard to tho lesser question of Government Insurance. At the present time the South Australian Government, as well as our own, are seriously exercised over tho working of the Insurance Department, and public con fidence in these institutions is likely to be shaken in consequence. This is unfortunate in a doublo sense. It is to bo deplored, firstly, because tho New Zouland Insurance Department (to which we proposo confining our observations) is in reality a sound in stitution deserving the support of tho people; and secondly, because the principlo of Go vernment insurance is per xc admirable, and in consonanco with the most advanced ideas of the functions of Government. The non-discriminating public will not stop to draw fine distinctions between the institution and the manner in which it is worked ; and henco tho scanda lous revelations as to the control of tho Government Insurance Department will bo accepted as proofs of the worthlessness of the system, instead of being attributed (as they ought to be) to the vicious practice of giving promotion to place* of responsibility on grounds of political and personal pre ference, and not because of special fitness or moral rectitude. Mr Fish, M H.R., has already intimated hia intention of moving, when Parliament meets, for a commis sion to inquire into the working of the Insurance Department. This will, of course, be agreed to ; for Government, in the face of the popular clamour, will not attempt to hide their blunders any longer. They have, indeed, taken alarm already, and, in anticipation of tho coming day of reckoning, have begun to sot their house in order.

The first vigorous step towards purging the Department of its objectionable elements is found in the dismissal of Mr George Thorne, jun., from tho position of Superintendent of Agents. Had it not beon for a bit of sharp practice perpetrated last year while the Houso was sitting, the necessity for taking this extreme step would not have arisen. At the very moment that a Parliamentary Com mittee were considering the terms of Mr Thome's appointment, the Insurance .Com missioner, Mr Luckie, oxtended the period of engagement to 31st December, 1885, with out tho authority of the Colonial Treasurer, who is tho recognised head of the Department. This engagoment was on _»dified terms, Mr Thorne, in order to conciliate the popular feeling, agreeing to forego his salary of £450 a year, on condition that he was allowed to retain his fat commissions of between £2,000 and £3,000 per annum. Major Atkinson never sanctioned that agreement, and it is possible that theinton tlon of Government now is to repudiate it altogether. It is quite in accordance with Mr Thome's character that he should threaten an action for compensa tion, and attempt to screw a few thousands out of the Government to "square" him. We hope, however, the claim will be firmly resisted. Mr Thorne has all along beon a round man in a square hole, and tho colony should see that it is no longer victimised in fancy ex periments at squaring the circle. We are sure that Parliament will not grudge any law costs incurred in resisting further pay ments in that quarter. Tho fama clamosa which has led to tho suspension and subsequent dismissal of Mr Thorne had its origin in the well-known Mackay case, in which a hard-working and poorly-paid canvasser was prosecuted for embezzlement. The telegrams which the defendant published exhibited Mr Thorne in no very enviable light as a scheming and greedy official—pushing Government busi ness by the tactics of a second-hand clethes-dealer, and raking in money to him self "by .every wile that's justified by honour," and by sqrae wiles that did not exactly pome withifl that definition. A case which in some respects presented a perfect contrast; to that just alluded to was before the R.M. at Wellington the other day, when a head-clerk in the Insurance Department, McDerinott by name, was sent six months to prison, fpr embezzling' large . m_tgpf Government money.' The contrasts aro tjjeso: Mackay was jpoorly paid, the reason of this being that Mr Thome's coriy missiop sw^Uowod a good deal' of his earn ings, ami al. bjiat ha _a$ done was to draw his salary from _n.e insurance premiums he collected i McDermott was fa a highly-paid and responsible position, and ha de liberately falsified the books of the Depart

ment to cover his thefts of the funds. Vet, Mackoy was sent to tho Supremo Court for trial, wliilo M__rm*tt was tried summarily by a magistrate and allowed to escapo with a punishment altogether incommensurate to his offence. It was freely alleged during tho progress of the first-named trial that it was a case of wilful per secution, and that view is strengthened by the facts connected with the McUermott case. Tho difference in tho modes of treatment is significant, and points to something rotten in tho administration of the Insurance Department. As for the present show of zeal on tho part of the Government in reforming the Insurance Department, they are entitled to very littlo if any credit for it. Mr Luckie, in dismissing his friend Mr Thome, assumes a virtue which he docs not possess ; for it cannot bo gainsaid that but for (he reforming impetus from the outside, we should never have heard a word of purifying the Department. Even the pruning hook of Retrenchment would have passed overthe good things which fell to tho lot of Mr Thorite, had not the Press drawn attention ropeatedly to tho mutter, and had not recent scandals accentuated the abuses connected with the ollico of Superintendent of Agents. It is now being spread about that the ollico will not. be filled up ; that Government will introduce other economic reforms in tho De partment ; and that things will bo put so straight that a Parliamentary inquiry will be unnecessary. Wo do not agree with our Wellington contemporary in thinking these assurances satisfactory. A general fooling of uneasiness has been engendered as to the way in which tho Insurance Department is worked, and that feel ,ing can only bo allayed by the fullest investigation by a Parliamentary Committee. Ollicial muddling and favouritism have produced their natural crop of evils, and these tire not to bo cured by hnlf-mensuro . least of oil by glossing over and concealing the diseased parts. An unhealthy limb has booii amputated, but wo must probe so us to find tho root of the disease and if possible eradicate it.

Sir Julius Vogel's Candidature.

Silt Julius Vouei, Iris ro-ullirnicd tho stato mont that ho will not remain iv tho colony moro than a fow months. In a telegram to our morning contemporary ho says:—"l liavo no intention of staying beyond a fow months, ami have no intention of forming a distinct party. I como hero without any thought of entering into politico, but, observing tho existing difficulties, have thought my long experience in New Zea land might bo of sorvico in suggesting remedies and in consolidating parties." Really this is tho very perfection of—well, say self-complacency ; a stronger word ha J suggested itself, but admiration for tho supremo audacity of the would-be member disarms resentment. Tho telegram menus literally this: "I came to tho colony for othor purposes : ono of them being, in point of foot, a littlo claim of £t>,00() odd against you ; but on arrival my heart was touched at tho sight of your helplessness and in ability to carry on tho government of tho country. It thou occurred to mo that, while not neglecting my own littlo ullairs, I might, dining my thrco or four months'stay, put you till right again for v fow years. I will lix up your parties for you, und settlo your dilhaultios, and hav ing accomplished this, I shall bo enabled to tell tho good people in Eugland, on my re turn, how opportune my arrival was ; how everything was in a devil of a mess, and how tho whole colony welcomed mo as its saviour. Such a triumph will bo exceedingly useful in re viving my rapidly waning fortunes and in fluence at Home, and may perchance furnish me with a powerful backing in obtaining tho settlement of my littlo bill. I have no intention of forming a distinct party : that would bo a vory foolish thing in overy way. Parties aro so nicely balanced now that by coi[uotting lirst with ono sitlo and thou with nnothor, by falling in with Grey's land tux and agency of native lands, and leaning to Atkinson's finuiico and tho Conservatives, I can do a vory great ileal better than by trying to create a now party. Steering a happy middle course, I shall soon bo able to discover which party is most likely to sec things as I soo them, and then the consolida tion procoss will begin in earnest; you havo had a touch of my talont—just con lide yourselves in my hands, dear children, and all will bo well." Tho address is an insult to tho intelligence of tho country, What arc tho difficulties which any advice of Sir Julius Vogel's can rcmovo. Wo have hail no dillicultics since ho left tho country, | oxcept the remains of tho extravagance in I Govornmen'; created undor his Administra tion, and theso ho is not tho man to remedy. As to parties, wo require no assistance in consolidating them ; tho electors, and not a transitory visitor to tho colony, aro tho proper authority to do that. Tho patronising tone of tho telegram, its ineffable conceit, and the ridiculous aspect in which it places Now Zealand and its peoplo before tho outside world, should bo sufficient to ensure Sir Julius Vogel's rejec tion for any constituency in New Zea land, where the doctors aro not actuated by the very moanest motives in tho choico of their representative. If the voters of the East Coast elect him on such conditions, they and their schemos de servo to bo ostracised by every other member of tho New Zealand Parliament, and the district handed over to tho financial rings of London, whose favour they court. Sir Julius Vogel, upon his own showing, represents that class alone. He is not a colonist, has no intention of bo coming one. He deserted tho ship of State when in tho midst of tho breakers, and we havo no need of his holp now that she has been safely navigated into smooth water.

Wo have been requested to publish the following telegram which His Excellency tho Governor has received from the Secre tary of State for the Colonies :—" It is Her Majesty's wish that the celebration of ifer Birthday should bo deferred for ono month at least. Her Majesty has been pleased to appoint tho 28th of Juno for the United Kingdom." Tho lovee which His Ex collency had Intended to hold on the 24th of May will consequently not take place. Tho celebration boing ono that is observed in honour of Her Majonty, no doubt tho citizens will see the desirability of respect. ing the Queen's wishes in tho mattor, and the holiday will bo gonorally postponed to tho date named in tho tologram to His Excellency.

An interestingand amusing sketch written by Sir George Grey, entitled "Journeys of the Stoics," and describing tho misfortunes of philosophers when they fall into the toils of fashionable patrons, will appear in to morrow's Supplement. Tho paper consists of a comparison botwoen tho incidents in a journoy taken by an old Stoic philosophor in company with a noblo lady and the analogous cir cumstances narrated in Carlyle's " Remin iscences." The Supplement will also con tain tho continuation of tho sensational story " Hand and Ring," " Milnor Stephen Outdcno," Random Shots, &c, See.

A cablegram from London announces the arrival of tho steamship Ruapehu at Ply mouth from Lyttelton on May 14, after a remarkablo passago of 39 days, including stoppages. This is by far tho best run home yet made by the direct steamers. The Rttapclju unfortunately had no frozen meat, owing to the breakdown which occurred in her refrigerating machinery shortly bofore she left this port, and this is now all tie more regretted because of the exceedingly short time occupied in the voyage homo.

As some doubt appoars to prevail upon the point, it may be explained that tho per son who may be elected to the seat in the City Council vacated by the resignation of Cr. Harper will hold office till September, 1885, when Cr. Harper's term would have expired, The following six Councillors re tire by effluxion of time in September next, viz., Crs, Crowtlver, Fleming, Field, Stevenson, Marshall, and Hol land. Cr. Thompson, when accepting office, notified his intention of also retiring in September next.

A meeting of the creditors of Holland and Fortzer, late grocers of Queen-street, was held at 11 o'clock to-day, at the office of tho Official Assignee. There were present: The Official Assignee, who presided, the bankrupts, Mr Theo, Cooper (solicitor for Mr Holland), Mr E. Cooper (solicitor for Mr Fortzer), Mr John McKnil Geddes (Brown, Barrett, and Co.), Mr C. S. S, George (solicitor for Messrs L. D, Nathan and Co.), and Mr 0, W. Owen, It appeared that the bankrupts' stock and books had been seized by creditors under a dead prior to the filing of tho petition ; and as no statement of assets and liabilities had yot been prepared, it was resolved oil tho jnotiop of Mr George, seconded by Mr Geddes, to adjourn t,he meeting till Friday next. We'understand tliat' the liabilities amount to close oh £3,000, and the assets (principally book dobts) aro considerably under that amount

Tho following tenders havo been received by Mr Searell, architect, for the erection of two shops in Victoria-street:—P. Porter, £_0; J. Wood, £020; Thos. Colebrook, £:">4O: E. Mills, £529 ; G. Wooller, £500 : Wrigley and Hancock, £497; Todd .r oh., i'HIO ; E. Davies (accoptod), £178.

To tho Editor: Sir, —Will you allow mo, through your columns, to remind tho mem bers of tho French Literary Socioty that Mi- Ralph Mood's concert will take place next Monday in the Choral Hall, and that, us this gentleman has always been in readiness to volunteer his services for the concerts of the Society, the Committee hope tho mem bers and their friends will patronise this musical treat.—T am, etc., Aliiin Viixkvai,, Hon. Sec.

The following causes were disposed of by Captain Jackson, 11.M., yesterday after noon :—John Reid and Co. v. Moore and Townsond, claim £27 lis, costs £6 Is; Mr P. Oliphant lor plaintiff. Kelly v. Mills, i. ;Mr Ed. Cooper for plaintiff, and Mr P.rassey for defendant. Particulars of this claim have already been published. His Worship considered that plaintiff had not proved his cluim beyond tho amount paid into Court, and ordered each person to pay his own costs. Bloom v. Hart, claim I.i IDs, on anl.O.U.- Judgment for plaintiff with costs.

Mrs Kirkinnn, a respectable woman, applied for a prohibitory order restraining publicans from supplying spirituous liquors to hor husband, Thomas Kirkman, who had scarcely been sober since Christmas. John Atkinson, a neighbour, corroborated Mrs Kirkman's statement. Tho application was made at. Mrs Kirkman> request, Tho order was granted.

Mr Richard A. Proctor, tho popular writer and lecturer on astronomy, has always been famous for his extraordinary memory. In his Australian tour Mr Proctor's remarkable mnemonic powors were sulliciently noticeable, but now holms, ho says, still further dovolopod und disciplined them, and ho can now walk through a town and afterwards repent tho names and character of the various trados iiion in (ho exact order of their occurrence, Some of Mr Proctor's acliiovomonts, how over.in mnemonic mathematics,if wo may so term thorn, aro really marvellous.

Tho twentieth anniversary of the Hopoof Auckland Tout, Independent Ordor of Ho chabitos, was celebrated last ovening at tho Temperance Hall by a soiree and ball. Tho eliair was occupied by Mr E. C. Cnrr. Songs, etc.,wore rendered by Misses Tapper, (fribble, Marsnn, King, Moll, Messrs King, Scents, Lcadhum, Mnrson, Wileoeks anil French. Tho ball subsequently was a great

As tho question of a fisli market for Auck land has boon often discussed, tho following results from tho recent loaso of tho Mul boiirno markets for a period of 12 months is of interest: Eastern market, £4,302 ; Queen Victoria market, £0,502; _'_ Market, 111,022; Hay market, £1,051 ; Sixmcor streot market, £2110. Tho total shows a considerable increase over last years re turns, Thu City Council were tho vendors.

"An Observer" calls attention to tho condition of tho monument erected by tho transit of Venus ex|(edition nn tho site where their observations were mado. Tho barbed-wiro fence-has boon pulled down, and tho cows, rubbing themselves against the monument itself, huvo left greasy marks mi its corners. Tho inscription written on it has been cut, und thu monument covered with disgusting dofaeings. Ho says : " Our citizens who assisted theso strangers while hero ought to see that those shameful dofaeings should at once be repaired, and a proper fence (iron railing) placed around it, or else it will gradually go to pieces and disappear altogether—n result which would he a great disgrace to New Zealand."

To the Editor. Sir,-There is a rumour in town that tho Licensing Committee have decided to close several hotels in tho city on the ground that, they nro not required. Now, Mr Editor, I am not interested in hotels save in having a gluss of beer occasionally, but I should like to know what good tho Good Templars will achieve by closing, say, Bix hotels in the city, for any person requiring refreshment will not iiositato in walking a few stops further to obtain it, and as our population has almost doubled tho last few years and no now license has been granted, tho closing of several of our hotels means a loss to our ratepayers and a monopoly to tho brewers and publicans, and I wonder soma of our City Council members do not move in tho matter,as oneof their valuublo endowments, viz., tho licensing foes, are threatened.— Yours, i.e., Katki-avku.

The Premier of Victoria maintains his faith in Australasian federation. Ho has had an interview with Mr Moore, Chief Secretary of Tasmania, who stated that the i.'overnmcnt of that oolony would submit to Parliament the resolutions passed at the Sydney Convention as soon as pos sible after the commencement of tho session in June or July next. Mr Service docs not view the motion recently carried in the Now South Wales Parliament, affirming that the Federal Council Bill should not be passed by the British Parliament before being submitted to tho Parliament of that colony, as being hostilo in character, nor does ho, after reading the remarks mndo by Mr Stuart whon tho motion was under consideration, concur in the opinion that tho passing of tho resolution practically means tho shelving of the question.

To tho Editor: Sir,—Permit mo a few words in reply to " Mater" in your last night's issue. Tho girls aro not allowed to return to the Homo after having once ob tained a situation, uiilchb thoy are too ill to work or aro without means. Nor aro thoy encouraged by the matrons to demand higher wages than they are believed to bo worth. Every effort is made to place them in respectable homes as soon as possible after thoy arrive, and they aro urged to ac cept even low wages for the first year, pro vided thoy can secure a comfortable homo. "Mator" must have beon unfortunate in her choico, as scores of young women have been ongaged from tho Homo during the past six months who have fully satisfied their em ployers. Let " Mater try again when tho next vessel arrives, and she may have better luck. —Yours, <fca, Pater.

On Wednesday ovoning last the Wntor viow Band of Hope made its first bow bo foro the public in the Primitivo Mothodist School-room, Great North Road. A goodly number of tho inhabitants of the district were present, who seemed to enjoy them selves greatly. The President (Mr ,T. Tat tersall) occupied tho chair, and introduced the evening's programmo. Tho choir sang "Recua the Perishing" in a very pleasing manner. The next was a duet and chorus, "Father, Thou Art," in which the following ladioa and gentlemen took part:—Miss H. Sansom, Miss E. San som, Miss M. Tattersall (alto), Mr E. Earlo and Mr T. Sansom. A recitation, "Tho Lifeboat," was givon by Mr 11, Tnt torsali, who received well desorvod ap plause. "My Happy Homo," by Misses Anson and Sansom, followed ; and then a reading by Master C Sunsom, which was followed up by a song by MrT. J. Sanson, "Joe Perkins." A spoech by Mr Cox was vory amusing and instructive. Tho chorus of " Bright Waters" followed by the choir, and tlion camo a song by.Mr E. Earlo. The whole concluding with tho National Anthem, Mnster Charles Sansom accom panied tho singors on the harmonium. Tho President then called upon those pro sont to join tho nowly-formcd Band, wnon about 30 put clown their names. It is intended that the band meet every fort night on Saturday at 7 p.m. as a counter attraction of town, and to givo tho young lnembors who attend school more tjmo to study their parts.

Mr Gladstone somewhat astonished tho llouso of Commons lately by informing it that a single tcnoment in Midlothian served to enfranchise no loss than 45 fagot-voterß. Since that, however, some even more sur prising statistics have been published, which show that the Duke of Bucoleuch and his agents havo carried the art of manufacturing fagots to a pitch of perfection hitherto unnttained. On the Duko's property in Dalkeith there are seventy-two "feu-duties," nineteon being in tho names of persons deceased or unqualified, and fifty of the remaining voters are Tories two Liberals, and one neutral. Tho system of creating these fagots seems to bo a3 follows: —The Duke buys up plots of building land, for which he pays feu-duties or ground-rents to his fagots who are thus qualified as what Mr Glad stone called " incorporeal hereditament Voters." Again he lets the plots of land or houses erected upon them to other fagot voters, and thus there is praqtloaHy no limit to tho number of voters who can bo enfranchised by some sort of an interest in an acre of ground. Perhaps the most objectionable feature of the whole system is the fact that the Duke ofton pays more in ground rents to one set qf fagots than.he receives in rents from the other. In High-street, Dalkeith, for instance, seven voters aro. qualified as the Duke's superiors, and receive from him £105 in feu-duties, while this disinterested nobleman only gets £24 in rents from his tenants. And yot the law says this is not \ bribery.— "Truth." : '

To tho Editor ; Sir, —In your remarks on Wednesday night re ball practice in Pon sonby, speaking of supinoness on tho part of the police, I think you were somewhat un just, as I can testify of my own knowledgo that both the Freeman's Bay and Ponsonby constables havo been unremitting in their efforts to discover tho perpetrators of these outrages since tho first occurrence last week. I have no interest personally in this matter, but, these being two efticiout officers, think " honour should bo given to whom honour ia duo." Is it not usual to havo some sign or token by which a constabulary station is recognised ? 1 mcroly ask for information, as I am told since the Bay station has been removed to Union-street tho peoplo com plain of having thoir nocturnal slumbers disturbed by clamorous knockingfl at wrong houses by people wanting policemen.—l am, _'c, Castok.

An effort is to be mado by the Northern Steamship Company to further open up the trade between Norfolk Island, Noumea, and this port, by establishing regular steam communication, It is proposed to place on this trade tho s.s. lona, which, for several months past, has been laid up and thoroughly repaired. She will probably re main in charge of Captain Amodeo.

Messrs Upton and Co. have issued a new map of the city and suburbs of Auckland. It comprises all tho additional streets in city and suburbs, tho plan of Surrey Hills estate, of tho now towns that have grown up about Mount Eden, Mount Roskill, and other suburbs. The map will be very useful to business men and others. Tho rapid growth of the city of Auckland has made plans of long standing obsoloto.

Warneford, committed for trial by tho Thames Bench on a charge of smashing the windows of tho Bank of Now South Wales, Thames, was brought to town this after noon in charge of Constable O'Brien.

From information received by Superin tendent Thomson, it apixmrs that the Nguiiguru Hotol and store buildings, which have beon destroyed by fire, wore owned by Mr I*. S. Brown. Mr Patrick Bourke was tho lieenseo. Tho total insurance was £.150 in the United Fire Insurance Company, but it is expected that tho loss will e.xcoed £800. Nothing is known yet concerning the origin of tho outbreak, but inquiries into the cir cumstances will doubtless be mado by Con st nblo Gordon, of Whangarei, who forwards tho news of tho occurrence. A proposal for £350 was mado to tho South British Com pany a few days ago on Mr Bourke's stock in tho storo at Ngunguru, but hud not been -completed at the time of the fire.

A meeting of Volunteer officers was held last ovening in the Drill-shed, and re presentatives of each company wore present. Major Shepherd presided, and opened the business of the meeting, viz., to decide as to tho movements of the Volunteers on the Qucon's Birthday. After some discussion it wus resolved to coll a parade ot 8.30, and proceed by train to Pukokoho to tire tho feu ttejoie and hold a sham fight, in which the Wairoa Rifles und Waiuku Cavalry will tuko part.

An inquest was hold yesterday afternoon at thrco o'clock, at tho Lunatic Asylum, on tho body of Michael Naughton, for many yours a much-respected member of tho Auckland police force, and who for sovoral years had been stationed at llelensvillo. The ovideneo showed that deceased was admitted a patient in Fobrunry last, and from that time had been gradually sinking. Dr. Young stated tho case, und it was shown that deceased had received every uttontion, and diet! on Wednesday last, in the 39th year of his age. A verdict of " Death from physical exhaustion," in accordance with medical testimony, was returned. Tho funeral will leave the house of Mr James Stony, Grey-street, to-morrow afternoon at throe o'clock.

To tho Editor: Sir, —I havo read all tho wonderful thing* Mr Peltzer told your re {Kirtcr about the state ol affairs in Paris, and 1 saw that, if Mr Peltzer is well ac quainted with political matters, ho is by no moans so wall acquainted with politicians, for ho said in spouking of Mr Kospail, " tho celebrated physician," whilst tho Kospail referred to is described in Voporeau's " Dictionnniro dcs Conteinporalns" as " Homme politique fraticais, depute, etr." (French Politician, deputy, etc,,). —I am, etc., U.V AMI HE L'OPrOHTI.'MSMK.

Tho London correspondent of an Aus tralian paper writes on March 28 :—" I alluded some little timo ago to fears which had been expressed as tj the safety of Mr James O'Kelly, M.P., who had gone out to the Soudan as correspondent of the ' New York Herald.' Theso fears have been allayed by tho receipt of letters from Mr O'Kelly of comparatively recent dato ; but apprehensions of another sort aro now being expressed, namoly, whether or not that gentleman has wormed himself into the councils of the Mahdi, and is prompting tho Falso Prophet to further efforts in defiance of tho English power. It was known to be Mr O'Kelly's intention to gain access to tho Mahdi if ho could, and there is reason for believing that he has been successful. It is expected that ques tions will shortly bo asked in Parliament as to the doings of the hon. member for Ros common.

Another tomporance reform has been achieved in tho city. At the meeting of the City Council last night, Cr. Waymouth brought forward his motion. restricting the hours for billiard licenses till ten o'clock at night, and after an animated discussion, succeeded in carrying it by 7 to 6, tho voting boing as follows .-—For—The Mayor, and Crs. Wnymouth, Stevenson, Field, Devoro, Marshall and Holland. Against — CrCrbwther, La Koehe, Aickin, Montague, Fleming and Unrratt. The mover pointed out that as publicans weie now obliged to dose thoir houses at ton o'clock, and consequently their billiard • rooms also, it would bo a great injustico to them if owners of billiard tables could carry on businoss till a lator hour. It was argued on the other side that if restrictions were to be impoi?ed upon this trade they might just as well be imposed upon other tradesmen also. Cr. Aickin questioned whether tho Council had powor to restrict the hours. The Mayor roplicd that full authority was given in tho Act. It was likewise stated that as tho linonses had only boen recently Issued they could not bo affected by the re solution this year, but the Town Clerk ex plained that tho licenses boro an endorse ment, to tho effect that tho rocms should not bo koptopon boyondthe hours prescribed for tho public-houses under the Act. It will bo within the recollection of our renders that the Council previously rojected a re commendation of tho Logal Committeo to the sumo effect as Cr. Waymouth'e motion.

Tho doputation appointed by the Gospel Temperance Mission, Messrs F. A. White, J. Knott, and A. Cox, Socrotary, visited part of tho Kaipara district last week for tho purpose of forming branches of the Mission and holding public meetings, viz. : Pahi, Mon day ; Paparoa, Tuesday ; Maungaturoto, Wednesday; Mangawai, Thursday, and Otamatoa, Friday. At all the places, with tho exception of Otamatea (in consoquenco of getting there too Into in the evening) very successful meetings weie held, and many signed the pledge and put on the " bit of bluo." By the zealous efforts of tho Rev. Mr Gittos and others, Bands of Hope havo boon established throughout the district, and in somo places it was stated that young people up to tho ago of 14 and 1G years had never seen a person drunk. Nearly two hundred have already been enrolled as members of the ' Gospel Temperance Mission, in cluding some of tho Maoris in this district. Tho Committee, at their monthly meeting on Monday last, accorded a vote of thanks to tho friends who so kindly assisted by providing horses, &c, and for the hospitality shown to the deputation. Other places aro ashing for deputations, and tho Committeo trnst that cro long they will see their way clear to comply with the request, and to re olnlm people from tho temptations and tyranny of the drink curse.

That seotlon of the community which takos a delight in "glove contests" is to be gratified by another exhibition of " science," which has beon arranged to come off on Saturday, 24th inst,, between W. Murphy and H. Eccles.

An old woman who earned her living, by making what she called " chemisettes," at lid each, on being asked if it paid her at that low figure, Bald, " Well no sur, not for small quanti ties, as we loses a 'arpenny on each garment, but then you sees snr, wo makes up such a number of them, that it's the quantity woinakos. wot makes it pay." How we can sell our best Bacon at 8d and 9d per lb, can only be ac counted for nn tne old woman's explanation of quantity. We don't intend to let the selling price go boyond 9d if we can help It, and we shall do our best, and therefore we very respectfully Invito tho mibUp ta holp us, to got through tho neposs^avy (jaantity. We Bhall offer for solo Tfl-mowow, tho best Canterbury Bacon and Cheese in Auckland, Bacon 8d and 9d, Checso (id per lb. Wo have also a few vory prime, first prize, Waikato Factory Chpeso, a sample lot, which wo shall sell m Jd per. \b Auckland Provision Company, _g*t Corner Stall. City Mar.ket_-TA. RivrrANY, Manage .— [Auvt.J

Members of the H.A,CB. Socjety aro re minded or their assembly on Sunday morning.

The juvenile danoing-.claas, under Pro-. lessor Bernard's supervision, begins on Satflr. day next.at a p,m„ in the Mount Albert Hall.

Mr Charles Bright Intends leoturlng In the Holenavillo Town Hall (Holensvillo) on Monday, the Kith instant, Subjecti "The New Gospel of Freethought, and what we think' of tho Old Gospp],

THE FOOTBALL TEAM FOR SYDNEY.

One of tho Playorß Arrostod,

[itY TKMltlHAl'll.—l'ltlWS ASSOCIATION,]

Wkm.inoton, Thursday. Mr GitonitK CampiiklL, ono of tho forwards of tho football representatives picked from Wellington, is unablo to got away from his offico, and it is understood that Mr Arthur Coopor, who is undoubtedly the best for ward Wellington has got, will take his place. It was thought Mr Cooper could mot go with the team, but tho difficulty has now been overcome.

Invkkuakilli,i,, Thursday. Mr O'Donuell, one of the Southland foot ballers selected to go to Sydney, was arrested at, Clinton to-day, and brought back to Invercargill to-night, on a fugitive warrant. It appears that he is indebted to several tradespeople in the town, who have taken this step owing to v strong suspicion that he did not intend to return, O'Donuell hud his wife with him, and is well known as an athlete. Ho was a large winner at the Dunedin Amateur Sports.

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Boforo Messrs Prime and Isaacs, J.P.s) Drunk.—Elizabeth Best, who was found in her worst condition by Constable Whiter in the pelting rain, was fined 5s and costs, this being her first offence since doing six months in Mount Edon.

Chakuk of Assault—Thomas and Ellen Acheson were charged with unlawfully assaulting Mary Breen, on tho 12th inst., by striking her on the face. —Mr Napier appeared in defence.—Mary Breen, of Lome-street, deposed that on Monday she heard a row between Acheson and his wife, and as complainant's name was mentioned in opprobious terms, she said she could not stand that. She went and asked the mean ing of it, when the man struck her in the face und the woman caught her by her clothes and tore her dress into ribbons. Mrs Acheson , was tempting her to got drunk by poking a brandy bcttlo under her noso. The woman had beem drunk for some months.—To Air Napier : She had a bad foot, and would not answer for Miko. Sho did not throw a brick at Madame.—(Mrs Atcheson : " Oh, Lord, bore's the brick, Your Worship.")—Com plainunt to Mrs Atcheson : You aro con tinually rolling in drink.—Annie Roßlin deposed that sne heard Atcheson call Mrs Breen a . She dreaded a quarrel, and got indoors. — Thomas Breen and several othor witnesses gave evidence— Mr Napier addressed the Bench, and said ho should be able to show that Mrs Breen, whoso name was well-known in this Court, was the aggressor. — Thoßias Achoson, labourer at the Gas Works, and his wife, Ellon, gavo a statement oxactly opposite that of complainant and her witnesses.—To tho Bench : Ho did not stiike the woman.— Mrs Achoson went into tho box, and, hold ing up a brick, told the Bench that it was thrown forcibly into her house, also a billot of wood, which was too heavy to bring into Court, and the force of the missiles broke the back of her husband's arm-chair, —Mrs Breen : Your Worship, the woman was not sober.—John Hall, a respectable-looking stranger, who had only been in Auckland a week, and Charles Millan denied that Acheson committed an assault on Mrs Breen.--Tho case was dually dismissed, each paying a sharo of the costs.

(Beforo Mr Prime, J.P.)

Uttebiso Forokh Cheques.—Richard Owen Hrigatock, alias Owen, was brought up on four charges of uttering small false cheques with intent to defraud, and with obtaining goods, value £1 13s 4d, by false pretences from Alfred Sturges, of Otahuhu. —Sergeant White opened the cose, and Mr iC. A. Buddie appeared on the part of the prisoner.—William Henry Ford, of the Royal Hotel, Onehunga, deposed that on the 2nd instant the prisoner called at the hotel,, and asked him to cash a cheque for £1 ; he objected, prisoner being a stranger, Ho said he was well known in Onehunga and in other places. He pressed for cash, as ho was short of money. Ho said if prisoner could get any perßon to recommend him he would cash it. He called Mr Bolland, the blacksmith across the way. Mr Bolland said he had known Brigstock for ten years, and knew nothing against him. Prisoner said he had a credit balance of £G0 in the Bank of New Zealand, and expected a remittance of £50 from his father by the mail, lie filled up a blank cheque for £1, and he gave him the amount (cheque produced). Saw prisoner fill up the cheque, sign, and endorse it Robert Sims. Knew Mr Bolland ns a respectable tradesman. Prisoner shouted four drinks, paid the cheque with other monoys to Mr Gledhill, on account of lemonade ; tho cheque was returned to him, dishonored. To Mr Buddie : Prisoner said his name was Robert Sims. — William Frederick Burrows, clerk at Mr Roe's, Onohunga, saw the prisoner on the 2nd inst.; he called and asked for Mr Roo, and was told he was not in. Prisoner said ho was very sorry, as ho wanted a blank cheque, being anxious to pay a small account; he gave hiui the cheque, as ho said he knew Mr Roe, otherwise ho would not have given it. He identified the cheque. — By the Bench : Ho paid for the stamp.—Charles James Aickin, ledger-keeper in the Bank of New Zealand, deposed that the cheque in question was presented on the 3rd of May by a man named Leo. It was not honoured. There was no account in the name of Robert Sims. The Court adjourned until 2 o'clock,

SCINTILLATIONS.

Licht-Headed—A candle.

Sham fight on Queen's Birthday. < A noisy solitude—A howling desert. Ministers delayed by yesterday's storm. To Aokatoa, the Maori high priest, is dead.

London mails to 4th April arrived Adelaide yosterday. Inmates of British prisons aro the healthiest class in the community. Robert Hislop, the missing Canterbury shophord, is safe.

Of 90,000,000 people in France, Spain, Italy, Belgium, and Portugal, only 680,000 are Protostants,

The Ruapehu's passage from Lyttelton to Plymouth is the fastest on record between New Zealand and London.

Until every good man is bravo, we mußt expect to find many good women timid,— George Eliot.

Invorcargill people want a water supply for the extinction of fires. The Council in tend considering the matter.

A young woman who went out two days ago to call in cows at Belmont, near Wel lington, has not roturned, and search parties are out.

The s.s. Victory, now duo from London, brings 379 Government immigrants, of whom 2.1S aro for Auckland.

Mr Charles Bright delivers his second lecture in the Lome-street Hall this even ing, the subject being " Charles Bradlaugh and the present straggle in Englnnd." "Yes," said the captain of an ocean steamship, "we had a very expensive trip thie tim,o. Yory little sea sickness; passen gers ate frightfully."

The feniale domestics by the steamer Aorangi havo all found engagements at Dunedin at from 7s to Ms a week, and there is an unsatisfied demand for more.

Tho Dunedin Trades and Labour Council wish it understood that tho motion carried at the rooent public meeting was of con fidence in Sir Goo. Grey as a representative of the people, not as a leader.

A royal scandal has beon hushed by the morganatic marriage of the Duke of Hesse being dissolved. Lake Tuhare, in California, is being absorbed in irrigation. From an area of 1,736 miles it has now shrunk to 196 inilos, while its greatest depth is only 22 feet. A young Now Zealand gentleman has a " run " in Central Australia which covers 2,000 square miles of country, half of which is sand-hills.

Raw oysters are recommended as a mar vollous cure for a cold. Ah, ah ! That's the reason why men who aro kept ou,t until after midnight are so fond of them, then. New Zealand banks for t_o quarter ending 31st March last h,a.d deposits amounting to over £9,00ft,_0, while the coin and bullion ifl hand only reached a total 01 £1,880,000. ''Alas!" said a moralising bachelor, within earshot of a witty young lady of tho company, "this world is at he«tt ViUt a gloomy prison!" '<Yt_" alghf-d tho mercilesg v_fo„, «©specially to the poor eriM__. dp.P.nietl to solitary confinement!" According to, the "Waikato Times," Kihikihi h_ now the go-ahead appearance v_ioh Cambridge had two years ago, and within a short time it will rival Cambridge in extent, importance, and prosperity. Like Carabridgp, too, the ex,ten,t and quality of tho agricultural and pastoral land? \n its vlolnjty ensure the permanency pi its pros, parity. The {act that ab.pu.tj 4? a, foot, is asked'for soi. oof the sections in 'the tow ft is sufficient evidence of confldenco which property-holders an . others have in the place!

MR GEORGE THORNE, JUN., AND THE GOVERNMENT.

(BY TELEGRAPH. — OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

WELLINGTON, this day. Tin; "Post" says:—"lt is now known that the Cabinet has approved of the action cf the Commissioner of Insurance in determining to dispense with the services of Mr Geo. Thome, jun., and that the agree ment entered into last year by which that gentleman became Superintendent ot Agonts lias been cnticollcd. Mr Thome's con nection with tho Department has therefore ceased, but as it is possible that ho may not view the matter in the same light as the Com missioner and Ministers, it is not unlikely that the Supreme Court will yet be called upon to say whether the circumstances justify the termination of the contract by one of the parties. It is, however, certain that Mr George Thome's connection with the Department has absolutely ceased, and we have little doubt the news will be re ceived with feelings of satisfaction through out tho colony. We do not wish now to discuss the question whether the agreement under which he assumed thesuperintendence of agents was or was not a proper one, but wo aro quite sure that Parliament would this session, in the light of recent events, have insisted on its cancellation at any cost, had not the Commissioner and the Govern ment acted promptly and firmly in the matter. The office of Superintendent of Agents is not, we believe, likely to be filled up, but the wholo department is being reorganised so as to secure the -efficient performance of its func tions. The recent appointments of Mr Richardson as accountant and Mr Frank land as actuary are steps in the right direc tion, and if the other changes in contem plation are of as judicious a character as these appointments and the removal of Mr Thome, we do not think Mr Fish will find it at all necessary to trouble Parliament by a committee of inquiry."

IMMIGRATION AND EMIGRA TION.

(BY TELEGRAPH.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.

Wellington, this day. The following aro tho returns of immigra tion and emigration during the month of 'April :— Arrivals. Departures- Russell .. — 3 Auckland .. .. CGO 393 Wellington .. .. 9.i 194 Napier 3 0 Gresmouth .... 4 12 llokitika .... 3 0 Lyttelton .... 19 82 Timaru .... 10 4 Dunedin .. 2„ 3 Invorcargill .. ..293 375 Total 1321 lOGfi Of the total arrivals, C 22 were from the United Kingdom; (155 from Australian colonies ;35 from Fiji; and 12 from South Seas. Of the departures, 94 were for the United Kingdom ; 839 for Australia ; 18 for Fiji; 17 for other British ports ; and 08 for the South Seas. Chinese — Arrivals, 4; departures, 23.

FAST PASSAGE BY THE RUAPEHU.

[BY TELEGRAPH. —PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Dunedin, this day,

The Ruapehu's actual steaming time to London was 37 days 20 hours. She left Lyttelton on April 5, and arrived at Plymouth on May 14.

SUSPECTED WHOLESALE POISONING.

(UV TELEGRAPH. — PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Christchurch, this day. Information* was given to the Rakaia police last night that a man had died suddenly at Mr Angus Murray's farm at Uraal, five men also being ill. It is suspected that it is a case of poisoning. No further particulars could be obtained. Last night the police and a medical man had gone up to tho station.

AN IMPORTANT TELEGRAPH CASE.

(BY TELEGRAPH — PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Wel_ngton, this day. The Secretary of Telegraphs has received the following message:—"London, May 11. —The trial, Central News Telegraph Com pany v. Eastern Telegraph Company, con cluded today, after nine days. The Lord Chief Justice summed up in the Eastern Telegraph Company's favour, and put to tho jury the question—"Did the defendants, tho Eastern Telegraph Company, Sir James Anderson, and Sir Benjamin Smith (the Company's Superintendent at Alexandria), divulge the contents of the Burleigh message (containing news of the victory of Tel el- Kebir) ?" To this the jury answered— ' No.' This is a verdict in favour of the Eastern Telegraph Company, subject to a point of law yet to be discussed."

THE OPERA HOUSE.

"Tho Rivals" To-night,

Tab " Lights o' London " has been with drawn from the boards at the Opera House, and to-night Sheridan's brilliant 'comedy, "The Rivals," will be performed, under the patronage of His Excollency the Governor. The members of the Company supply the materials for a powerful representation of this favourite and evergreen comedy.

SPORTING NEWS.

Tho Adelaide Cup,

[reiitkr's cablegran.]

Adelaide, Thursday. At the South Australian Jockey Club's Autumn Meeting to-day, the following was the result of

The Adelaide Cup, a handicap of 2.soflsovs. First horse, l'.OOOsov. and a Gold Cup, value lOOsovs. (the gift of Sir Thomas Elder); second horse, 300sovs.; third horse, iOOsavs. One mile and live furlongs. Mr J. O. Inglis's b h Mntun, 4yrs, by St. Albans-Edella, 9st 1 Sir Thomas Elder's oh m Conjecture, 4yrs, by Gang Forward—Poradven ture, Gstaih .„ -. ~. 2 Mr J. A. Lang's eh h King of the Vale, 4yrs, by King of the Ring—Amothyst, Ist 81b. 3 Fifteen harsos started. Malua won com fortably by three-quarters of a length. Time, _mm. 55j'sec.

Acceptances and general ontries for the Takapuna Birthday Meeting close to-night. Tho Pakurnnga hounds will meet to morrow at Nixon's Monumont, Otahuhu, at the usual hour.

HUMOROUS ENDING TO A SUPPOSED TRAGEDY.

(BY TELEGRAI.I—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Cambridge, this day. Resi'ectin-o tho rumoured drowning acci dent oxf, the Waotu-Lichfield track, the inattor was not so serious as appearances indicated, The driver of the buggy, for the body of whom search was made in the creek, was lying asleep some distance from where the buggy was discovered, In a happy state of intoxication, lo.vtagiy em bracing an empty bottle,, the contents of which had been disponed of. It appears he belonged to \Y_oiu, and had gone over to Lichfield fay supplies, and broached the Wgq _ii the road home.

AN AUCKLANDER'S VISIT TO PARIS.

Tho Rccldlvlste Bill,

Wk again continue from our last issue and this timo conclude the statement made by Mr Peltxer in the course of an interview with a reporter from this office :— Unpopularity of Foreign Wars. Public feeling is strongly hostile to the foreign wars into which France has been led. Here again we have theeame reck less system that was followed under the Empire. Both the Madagascar and Ton quin expeditions wore undertaken against tho will of the people, and whilst we are at war the Premier gravely assures Parliament that there is n n war—that, in fact, to complote a historical parallel, "the Empire is peace." __ c result was that when 40,000 or 50,000 men and 200,000,000 or 300,000,000 of francs were needed for the proper ca'rrv ing out of the Tonquin expedition, the Cabinet were only able to send.detachments of 500 or 1,000 men, and were afraid to ask for supplies after their assurance that there was no war. As a consequence our men fought battles by which they could not gain, and won positions which they were unable to hold. The people are not am bitious of colonising schemes. They know that Frenchmen are not a migratory race like the-British, they are aware that thty have no surplus population to get rid o. and they feel that every man- and every soldier is needed at home in the ..event of renewed hostilities with Germany. Still they have no desire for war, even with her' France is a continental nation, and, unlike an insular one, must concentrate all her energies and resources upon herself. The blood and treasure that she is wasting abroad are wanted at home. 100,000 troops, and the largest part of the Hectare engaged at Tonquin, and the result mugt be unsatisfactory. The general feeling is that the Republic ought to be laid on sure and durable foundations before any more wars are undertaken. Yet the army remains Reactionary in consequence of so many Monarchists being allowed to hold high positions in it. One of the leading generals is the Marquis de Galifet, a notorious Bonapartist, who was nicknamed "le Boucher ("The Butcher") for having caused thousands of French prisoners to be shot down in cold blood at the fall of the Commune. The Egyptian War. With respect to Great Britain's military operations in Egypt the Radicals thoroughly approve of Mr Gladstone's policy, but the Conservatives abuse him roundly, arguing that as he has gone so far with his inter ference in Egyptian matters he is bonnd, in the interests of civilisation, to complete the aubjugation of the Soudan. The Radicals say that in the present condition of Ireland it would be folly to undertake _eh a campaign, involving, as it would, the withdrawal of so many troops from the United Kingdom, and entailing indefinite expense. The Conservatives also contend that, as Egypt has been a French protector ate since the time of St. Louis, Franco ought, to insist upon a joint control, but the Radicals resist the proposition, maintaining that France has plenty to do at home before embarking in adventurous projects. The Reel—viste Scheme. The now notorious Recidiviste Bill was introduced to the Chamber of Deputies by M. Waldeck-Rousseau, Minister of the In terior, its object being to authorise the Government to transport to New Caledonia persons who are convicted of offences several times within a given period. Dur ing the discussion that took place upon it, it was suggested that the judges should havo discretionary power to sentence with or without transporta tion, but the Minister declined to accept any such modification of the measure. The Radicals strongly oppose it, and it has also been condemned by Louis Blanc, Victor Hugo, and the leading philosophers and political writers. Humbert, Tony Reveillons, Rochefort, and Felix Pyat are particularly conspicuous for their opposi tion. They declare that the real object of the measure is in an insidious way t» get rid of powerful political opponents, and that at any rate no Ministry should have such a dangerous weapon placed in its hands. Rochefortsaysthatunder the author ity of such a law itwouldbeaneasy matter to set a bravo upon, him to provoke a row, and then run him in for disorderly conduct, following this up with enough arrests on other specious charges to warrant his trans portation. Besides, he and others who haw been at Now Caledonia point out that the place is altogether too small for such i scheme, and that food also would have to be imported in very large quantities for the use of the criminals. This would render the experiment exceedingly expensive. The supporters of the measure, on the other hand, claim that a similar scheme was suc cessfully carried out by Great Britain in the colonisation of Australia, but this argument has been refuted by Ferdinand de Lesseps, who showed that the colonisation of Aus* tralia and New Zealand was effected by respectable and resolute settlers, who controlled and gradually assimilated the convict element. The protests of the British colonies have a prejudicial effect upon the French mind, and strengthen the case which the Government put forward. France abstains from inter ference in English matters, and it is there fore asked by tho Government if they are to submit to dictation from outside in pecu liarly French concerns, and if France is to be subjected to the humiliation of shaping her legislation as Great Britain would like. This is the reasoning of M. Ferry, the Premier, and by obscuring the real issues of the question it promotes its success. I do not think, however, that the measure will pass, for the opposition to it is very determined and powerful. The first reading was only carried by „ narrow majority made up of the Ministers and Under-Secretaries, and knowing that it is very likely to be rejected by tSe Senate, even if it passes the Chamber, the Govern ment have indefinitely postponed the second reading. Assuming, however, that nil these difficulties are overcome, the Radicals will make another pitched battle upon the esti mates, as it has been computed that the carrying out of tho scheme will involve an expenditure of twenty millions of francs annually. There is no need of criminal de portation, soeing that the French prison* are not overcrowded, and, as some of our great writers say, it is far better to improve and reform onr convicts at Home than to dm* them beyond the reach of civilising influ ences. Pergonal While in Paris I practised as a solicitor, having the privilege of pleading in the Lower Courts, viz., the Tribunal do Com merce, the Tribunal de Faix, and the Tri bunal de Police. I was also engaged to write articles fat-some of the Radical papers, notably Clenaenceau's organ, La Justice, and Rochoforfs L'tntransigeant. The work chiefly comprised the translation of political articles from the English press. I was also employed in reporting the proceedings of tho British Trades Union delegates during their visit to Paris. The climate, however, did not ngroe with mc, and after being accustomed to colonial habits I found the small lodgings ic. the city and the long hours of work—averaging ten per diem—ex ceedingly H'lisoTOe. Besides, I perceived better prospects for my family in New Zea land, an,d therefore I concluded to once more leave my fatherland. Had I remained a bachelor, J should, however, have put up with all inconveniences and stayed in Paris. When I came back here I could not help contrast ing the warmth of the welcome I experi enced from numerous friends with my state as a complete stranger in the streets of Paris. I began then to see that I had be come acolimatised, and that I was a New Zenlander vather than a Frenchman

THREE SHOPS DESTROYED BY FIRE.

(BY TELEGRAPH—PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Ciihisichurch, Thursday. A FH. occurred this morning in some shops attached to the Terminus Hotel, opposite the railway station. Three empty shops and a numberof bedrooms above them were gutted. The total loss is probably not much under £1,000. The attached shops belonged to Mr G, S, Marshall, who had insured the build ings in the Standard for £6,000, and thefur. nlture in the National for £2,000. Carpen ters had been working in the shop where the fire broke out until twenty minutes past five p,m„ and it is supposed they might have accidentally set fire to some shavings. The fire began at twenty minutes past seven p. _, and though it was soon under control, the engines had to play till ten to tender all safe.

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, FRIDAY MAY 16. 1884



TT\ IS EASES OF THE EYE. ARTHUR RICHARDSON, M.D., SPECIALIST AND OPERATOR ON •DISEASES OF THE EYE, ! MAY BE CONSULTED AT HIS RESI DENCE. KARANGAHAPE ROAD. From 1 to 3 in the afternoon. After April Dr. Rfeliardson will net a__l in Town, but from I to 4 at his own Residence. FT.HOMAS QUOI, formerly of tho Thames J_ Hotel Dining Rooms, ana late chief cook to Mr Waters, Queen-street, begs te intimate to his many friends and former customers that he is now about to open ONE OK THE MOST SPACIOUS AND COMFORTABLE RESTAURANTS IN AUCKLAND. Ok MONDAY, 12m May. AT K3. QUEEN-ST. (NEXT THE BRITISH* HOTEL). And trusts hlo long experience of the trade will bo sufficient guarantee that the Auckland publlo will find his restaurant wall and ably conducted on the latest style for the co__ort of thoso who will favour him with their patronage. AH meals of the best quality, served doily on the shortest notice. A—Meals Is; Weekly Tickets, sa,



Special Advertisements. 4.LOTHINO DEPARTMENT. MESSRS J. COSGRAVE & CO. Beg to announce that they have Just Opened, Ex British King. A SPLENDID ASSORTMENT op MEN'S AND BOYS' CLOTHING AND MERCERY. The Shipment is a Vory Extensive One, and comprlsos some of th« VERY BEST VALUE IN ENGLISH CLOTHING AND TWEEDS EVER IMPORTED TO AUCKLAND. The Goods are cut in the Very Latest Styles, and tho Patterns New and Choice. Intending Purchaacra would do well to Inspect thia Stock, aa MESSRS J. COSGRAVE & CO. HAVE NOW ON VIEW THE BEST ASSORTMENT OF CLOTHING IN AUCKLAND. Special attention ia drawn to our Stock of MEN'S AND BOYS' WATERPROOFS AND ULSTERS, Amongat which are a fow with the Patent Ventilated Cape, Note the address :— J. OOSGRAVK Sc Co., 204 and 20G, Qubkn-rtrkkt. ~r\R, MACMULLEN can be Consulted at Haslott's English Pharmacy, Queen-street, from 11.30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and at his Residence, Pon sonby Road, from G.SO to 7.30 p.m. TELEPHONE NUMBER, 188 TO PRIVATE HOUSE.



T> A R E "OAR GAINS HOSIERY !! ™ HOSIERY !! In addition to usual Well-assorted Stock of Hosiory, William R. Bkidomak Has just purchased from a Warohouso 4,119 PAIRS OF ASSORTED HOSIERY In Great Variety, And will bo Bold, to Clear Quickly, at and UNDER WHOLESALE PRICE 111 very nlco WINTER SKIRTS. 3s lid (worth 5a Cd). 2 010 yards Foule DRESS SERGE, in Navy. Brown, Myrtle, Grey, Pruno, Peacock, Ma rone ; to be cleared at Till yd (worth Is). 500 Pairs BLANKETS very cheap, from GaCd pr. Splendid stook FLANNELS, good wide line, la yard. Job Line 10/4 WHITE BLANKETS, 13a lid pr. (very cheap). Large Assortment CHECK DRESS GOODS from 9d yard. Vory good lino DRESS GOOUS, 3. yard. Large lot of Job Lines in MEN'S nnd BOYS' CLOTHING. Nice lot New Pattern FLOORCLOTHS, from 9d yard. LADIES' JACKETS and ULSTERS in great variety, cheap. ALL GOODS MARKED AT VERY LOWEST RATES. WILLIAM R. BRIDGMAN, '.'S3, Ul'I'ER QUEEN-STRKKT. DR. W I L X I NS, F.R.C.S., CONBULTINQ AND OPERATING) BUROEON, Is at his Surgery, for Gonoral Practice—Morn ings, 10 unSl 12; Evenings, 7.30 until 8.30; Afternoons, 2 to 4. for Eye, Ear, and Throat diseases. Dr. Wilkins Bpeut soven years at Moorefloldß Eyolloßpiial, London, under Messrs Bowman and Crichett, two at Throat Hoapital, London, seven years Honorary Surgeon Albert Hospital, and eight yeara at Eye, Ear, and Throat Infirmary. Melbourne Corrects sight for glassos.—Conaultiug Room . Queen-streot (nca Post-oiflcc), Auckland.



Mrs r. somerville, WELLESLEY-STREET (OPPOSITE ABBOTT'S OPERA HOUSE), Has Recoived, per Mail Steamer, A BEAUTIFUL ASSORTMENT OF FRENCH AND ENGLISH MILLINERY. TEMPORARY PREMIEEB OPPOSITE A, CLARK AND SONS'. H, L. POSBENISKIB, MERCHANT TAILOR AND. IMPORTER, Bhort__»-btrbet, Auckland, Wishes to Inform Hia Patrons ami the Public generally that he haa JUST RECEIVED HIS FIRST SHIPMENTS OF AUTUMN AND WINTER GOODS, PB_|S_ RUAPKnrj, The above comprise all the Latest Designs In TWEEDB and COATINGS, and are well worthy an inspection. AUCKLAND GAS COMPANY (LIMITED), ESTABLISHED 18_ PURVEYORS OF LIGHT, HEAT, AND POWER. The Company soil and eroct gas-fittings.' In cluding gas apparatus and gas-power engines. Stock Includes Otto (Jas Katrines.—Oilu. and Bliow-rnouis. Fort-slroi't. _ ____—_——._■ TJEMOVAL OF BUSINESS. Jb£ILNE £ QHOYCE Are now Opening in THEIR TEMPORARY PREMISES, CORNER OK : WELLESLEY AND LORNE-STREETS, Q QASEB, EX BRITISH KING, OF THE VERY LATEST STYLES IN MILLINERY, FEATHERS, FLOWERS, HEADDRESSES, JACKETS, DOLMANS, ULSTERS, FOUR-IN-HANDS, W. P. CLOAKS, FUR CAPES, &c, &o. Also, . 1 CASE DENTS GAUNTLET KID GLOVES, in several Colours and Lengths A VERY LARGE VARIETY IN STOCK OF DRESS MATERIALS. SILKS. VELVETS, VELVETEEN 8, HOSIERY GLOVE*. WOOLLEN GOODS. BOYS' JERSEYS. UNDERCLOTHING. BABY LINEN, BLANKETS, MANCHESTER GOODS, &C, &c., &c. 5 _ DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT CASH. MILNE .TCHOYCE, CORNER WELLESLEY AND LORNE-STREETS. ]S_w Jjaw Partnership. THE UNDERSIGNED beg to announce that they have commenced to Practice in Co-partner ship as BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS in Chambers In Hig . btreet, opposite Mr W. Ajtkto's Printing Office. E. W. BURTON. W. J. NAPIER. Auckland, September 22nd, 1883. i T EGG E, BACON, _ C 0., VALUATORS, BROKERS, GENERAL AGENTS, &q„ FORT-STREET, AUCKLAND (Neartyopr*Blte_aSTAßOifteoNowßul!dlflgß). Valuations effected on Kwrnjag Btoek, Growing Crops, and General $%__ Special arrangements with Brewers, _eora__e Companies, Loan Offices, Estate Agents, Trustees, &c, Sec. Complete Inventories Furnished.Permanent •••'.' Agencies Solicited,



Indigestion.—The main cause of nojrvousness is indigestion, and that is cause . by weakness of the stomach. No ono can have sound nerves and good health without using Hop Bitters to strengthen Hit.ioav.ti, purify tho blood, and keep tho liver and kidneys active, to oarry off f,U the poisonous und wa. te matter of the sys-. ten;, gee. EngU. Lpyer Watc_.es packed and sent peat free to, any part o$ New Poland on i-eoelpt !of P. 0,0, for _ IQo. A stamped guarantee en» ! closed.-A, . __le>. m. Q__-Btveet_ Ghronometer and • Wat„ma_._r (opposite I Theatre Jjoica}), established S3 xearavWAD __] Contracts tah;e_ fo. ajl kinds o, concrete work, laree or' small, and estimates and other information glvon to thoso wishing to do their own worif.—John Wilson and Co., T5, Queen- Btreet.—(Advt,}



Nryer Repent.—lt is said that one ont of every four real Invalids who go to foreign coun tries to recover health never return, except as a corpse. The undertakers, next to the kot_ keopers. have tho most profitable business. This exceasl ye.mortality may be prevented and pati ents saved and cured under the care of friends and loved ones at home, if they will but use Hop Bitters in time. Read.