SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

I HiOH WATBB {$££££&& UL H_N_BT\-Thli Evening. 4.11 7ig3k J§fl\ IB' 'NRIBEL-To morrow MorninJtA»*>- ■ MOON'S AGB.-Last Quarter, 17th, 2.1 .fy.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY. 'VJE, Arawata. s-u., Popham. froat^uascll >..!,. ; ,^ Rowena, s.s., Scott, from Mjartury Bay. v, 7j

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVENING.

Waitaki,B.s., Crawford, for mangaxei Ma-CTotror. as:. Johnson.'for Whangarei - - tor Iygfon, Tha brigantine Seagull left Port Chalmcrs'for this port on the 10th instant. The s.s. Arawata arrived to-day at 6 a.ra. She left RuSSI at 6 last hight. PaMengera:-- Saloon: Mr and Mrs Smalfihaw. Mr and Mrs Stewart, MfcTßalrer, Mrs Swift, Miss Stewart, Mr Leormonth, and 4 steerage. The Thames steamer Rotomahana wasdocked tM« fdr cleaning by Mr D. Gouk who wM dock the schooners Borealis and Nightingale for an overhaul directly after tho steamer ia floated out.

The s.b. Rowena returned from Mercury Bay at 1.30 a.m.. with BOVeral passengers. The Bohooner Glide, brig Naiad, and brigantine Marshall S. were loading timber at Mercury Bay when the Rowena left yesterday. The Glide was to have sailed for Fiji to-day.

Inwards Coastwise.— Morning -Light, from Cabbage Bay, v. lth 830 feet timber. Ootwards Coastwise.— Morning Light, for Cabbage Day. . Captains Clayton and Worep having surveyed the barque Flora, have recommended that her cargo should be diacharged until the leak is discovered, and tenders are now called for the work.

NEW SCHOONER YACHT.

Tenders have been called by Mr J. Clare for the building of a schooner yaoht, of about 50' tons register, for the Governor of Tonga. The dimensions will be about 60ft. keel. 15ft beam, and Bft. Sin. depth ol hold. The vessel is to bo a smart sailer, and fitted up with large roomy cabin, after the style of the better class of trading vessels engaged in the South Seas. She Is to be called the "Fine Lakalaka" (tha danotaggW), and will have tho figure of a Tongan girt on the bow. There is likely to be considerable competition amongst Auokland shipbuilders for .this work. Models have been prepared, and :will be forwarded to the Governor et Tonga, for his approval, byMessrs Hewson, Halloy, Holmes, Sims and Brown, and Clafe. The latter does not Intend to tender for the vessel, but, if his modol is ohoson, the suc cessful tenderer will build from it.

LAUNCH OF A SCHOONER.

. A new schooner .built to the order of Mr D. R Cruiakshank. for Messrs Rabone, Fees and Co., of Sydney, was successfully launohod from tlie shipbuilding yard of MrD. Gouk. in Customs atreetWeat,atai;>a.m. today. The vessel, which was decorated with flags in honour of the occa sion, glided into the water gracefully, and was -hristened In the usual manner by Mrs Gouk, who named her the " Futuna." Tho sohooner was designed by Mr Goldle.of North Shore, her dimensions being: Length of keel, 62ft.; beam, 19ft; depth of hold, 10ft. She is well put together, and while fitted with a large, roomy cabin containing six berths, and having good cargo carrying capacity, she promises to sail very well, her rig being that ot a topsail schooner. Tho schooner has been built under the supervision of Captain Philip Jones, and we understand that he and all others hero in terested have expressed satisfaction with the result of Mr Gouk's labours. The "Futuaa"iß to load here, and will leave for, Samoa about a week hence, in charge of Captain McKenzle, lato first mate o< the schooner Energy.. .

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

The H.a. Rotorua, which left for Southern ports yesterday, took tho following passengers: -For New Plymouth: Meaßrs _-keroyd and J. Clark, Mrs Dobio, Mr and Mrs Herd. For Wellington: Messrs Handler, W. J. Maxwell, H. Alexander, and Waller, For Nolsos: Messrs J. H. Good, sad Mansfield, Miss Oakley, and Mrs Levin. For Greymouth: Messrs N. P. Jack and J. W. Walker. For Lyttelton: Mr A. D. Bonnett. For Dunedin: .Mr R. Henderson. _"6r Blufl : Mr W. A. DArcy. For Hobart: Mr H. V. Arrowamith.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Kaipara Heads, this day.—Arrived: On ward, fore-and-aft schooner, yesterday. She has gone up the Wairoa.

Russell, this day.—Sailed: Mariner. Tho following colliers are loading: Christina, Agnus Martin, and Nerval.' A whale.hlp is signalled, supposed to bo the barque Alaska, Captbln Fisher.

Wellington, this day.—The s.a. Albion' eight days out from Sydney, has arrived.

COMMERCIAL.

Etenino Star Office, this day. Messrs E. & A. Isaacs report having sold yesterday some unclaimed cargo ox Loch Dee; also, some tobacco in bond. The attendance was good, and satisfactory prices obtained. Mr R, C. Greenwood's sale to-day ot city and country properties was very largely attended, and the bidding spirited. The freehold pro perty in Karangahape Road, having a frontage of 68ft. realised £2,025; a four-roomed houae In Adelaide-street, off Freeman's Bay, was Bold for £200. The remainder of the properties adver tised were witfiOrawn, and are now open for private Bale.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails will Closz as underi—

This Day. For Rarotonga. per Ada C. Owen, at 1 p.m, For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m.

Thursday, 12th inst

For Waiwcra, Te Kapa, Craigieburn, Work worth, etc., per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. Per Arawata, as follows :— For Qisborno, Napier, Southern Ports Aus . tralian Colonlos and United Kingdom (via j Brindisi or Naples, per Orient steamer), for letters, etc., specially so prepaid and atr dreesed. at 11 a.m. Money orders, registered loiters and news . papers, at 10 a.m. Late letters till 11.20 a.m.

For Tauranga, Ohlnomutu, and Opotlkl, per Qlenelg, at 1 n.m. For Friendly Islands, per Cygnet, at 1.30 p.m. For WhltJangi and Upper Mill, per Neptune, at 5 p.m. For Mangawai and Kaiwaka, per Ruby, at 5

p.m. For Thames, per Anno Milbank. at 5.30 p.m.

Friday, 13th inst. For Cowes and Coromandol, por Coromandol,at 1.30 p.m.

Tuesday, 21th inst.

Por City of Sydney, as follows— For Sandwich Islandß, United States of America. Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.m. For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. For mofipy. orders, registered letters and ewspapera, at 11.30 a.m. . Late letters, bearing an extra fee of six pence in addition to tli_ postage, will be received by the Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. This mail, will be due in London on Sat urday, August 2nd, 1881.

_•_'_■__ 8. B. HISS, Chiof Poatmastor, Chief POst-offlce. Auckland.

Meetings. Entertainments, Etc.

June 11. 1884. Abbtftt'a'Opera Houae—"Peep o'Day," &c, 8 Pirn. -

fDevonport Hall, North Shore—"AtHomo," 8 pirn. . . l Masonic Hall. Princes-street—Professor Ber nard's Dancing Class, 7.30p,m. .. . 'Lorne-Btrtet Hall—Horace Dean's Promenade Concert, 8 p.m. Franklin Road School-room—" At Home" Entertainment, 7.80 p.m.

Births.

BARTLETT.-On Juno 9, at her residence. Mount Eden, the wife ot H. G. Bartlett of a daughter. BAI.LANTINE.-On June 7, 1834; at her resi dence, Stewart-street, Ponsonby, tho wife of John Ballantlne of a daughter. WRIGHT.-On Juno If), 1884, at, her residence, ■ Mpreton-street, Freeman's Bay, Mrs James Wright of a daughter.

Marriages.

BUNKER~WILLOM&-On June 9, at the residence of the bride's brother, Douglas-st., Poosonby, by the Rev. Samuel Macfarfane, William Arthur, eldest son ot Ed. Bunker, to Mary Jane, third daughter of the late Join Willoms, of Great Grimsby, England.

SILL-BILLTTER.-On May 19, at Mfthurangi, Francis Sill, of Kendal, Westmoreland, to Maria Billiter, of Brixton, Surrey, England.

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

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11, 1884.

For the cause that lacks assistance, Bar the wrong that needs resistance. For the future In the distance, And thegeod that we can do.

A change of Government, to aU appear ances, is only a question of a few days time. Tho long conference which took place last night between Sir George Grey and Mr Montgomery resulted in a modus vivendi being arrived at by these rival politicians, and that agreement being com municated to Mr Macandrew, led to the latter moving in the HoUse tho adjourn ment of the debate on the Address-in- Reply. Should the understanding come to be complete and satisfactory, the Opposition can safely,count upon a substantial majority on a direct vote of no-confidenpe. It is not quite clear that all would combine to support Mr Steward's amendment to the Address-in- Reply, and that may possibly be defeated, leaving the battle-royal to be fought over Sir Geo. Greyls motion on Friday, Of course, Sir Geo. Grey and his immediate fol lowers must vote for Mr Steward's amend ment, if they wish to have the support of the Montgomery section; but it may be presumed that members on the fringe of either party wiU oppose it, to give the Government the chance of fighting out the iseue in a fair* and open contest. The stars in their courses seem .to be fightihg against' the member for Akaroa. Tho Government.ignore him as the leader of the Opposition, arid, among his own fol lowers his ineffable conceit, bumptiousness, and obstinacy are alienating support and sympathy from hiiu. The proceedings in the House last night go to prove that Major Atkinson was indulging in no mere unmean ing compliment' when he said at Auck land that he . looked on Sir George Grey as the only possible leader of the .Opposition. When the order of business was under consideration, the Premier declined to postpone Government work to make way forMr Steward's motion, but said-he would do |p if the leader of the " Opposition took the responsibility, and he indicated Sir Geo. Grey as the leader whom he would recognise. There are many reasons why the present Ministry should desire to see Sir Geo. Grey in power ratherthan Mr Mont goutery. and.there can be no doubt that the ; Ministerial taOtics will be steadily directed ijtowards that end. They know that their own tenure of office v gone, but they have tlte patriotic .desire to secure, if possible, a

capable administration to succeed thorn, and one which will not seek to accomplish, as its first duty, tho disintegration el tho colony. We scarcely think Government will tako such. an extreme step as-fit ia rumoured they contemplate, viz.-. suspond or withdraw tho Address - in- Reply until Sir George Grey's motion is disposed of. Anxious though they are to carry out tho programme wo have hinted at, they are not likely toadopt a-coursO:!. opposed to Parliamentary practice, arid so deficient in courtesy. Our later Wellington despatches show that the two sections of tlie Opposition have to-day definitoly .egolved to _t|P' port the amendment to tlio Address-in- Roply, and press a dissolution. In our tomo graphic columns will bofouiid the names of the mombers who agree to-this course, and these, with supporters to arrive, givo the Opposi tion a clear majority of fifteen in the House. Tho early dissolution of Parlia ment thus seems sure to take place, and tho colony within a few weeks will bo in tho excitement of a general elec tion. Still, in politics, the unexpected often happens, and, though things aro un doubtedly hardening to the cohcrete idea of a dissolution, Ministers may by an adroit turn overt it for a time, and give a new direction to the course of events.

What that turn may bo is hinted at by lobby rumour, which says that the Govern ment, finding there is no hopo of their retaining power, will resign with out waiting the result of either motion. Mr Moss appears to be playing into their hands, with a view to giving them an opportunity of asking the . Governor' for a dissolution—the object being to defeat the machinations of the Southern members who are scheming for the formation of a Montgomery - Mocandrew Ministry. This' night-i proceedings in tho House should settle what is to oe the upshot of tho pro pent confused condition of affairs.

The question of the controlofthe Manukau Harbour is again attracting attention. The Government is opposed to the new Manukau Harbour Bill, but is disposed to give the management of the trust to tho Auckland Harbour Board. Resolutions, which wore printed elsoivhero in last night's issue, hnvo been moved by Mr Aickin, and will be con sidered at a special meeting of tho Board next Tuesday. Mr Aickin is convinced that tho indicated change in control would extend the commerce of Onehunga, whilo the cost of administration would not be great.

Mr A, G. Bartlett writoe to inform us that tho town clock will not strike tho hours during to-day and to-night, bocause of the lino having broken which carries tho striking weight. Repairs will bo immedia tely effected, and it is expected the clock will resume striking tho hours to-morrow. Moanwhile it will indicate the timo silently.

An interesting trotting match took place at Avondale last Saturday afternoon between Mr Porter's bay mare and Mr John Laing's grey mare. The course was from tho New Lynn Hotel to Garrett's tannery, a distance of about throo miles and a-half, and the stakes £5 a-side. The match resulted in an easy victory for Mr Porter's horso by about a mllo,

The Auckland Rugby Union Is still await ing a reply to a cablegram inviting tho New Zealand Representative Football Team to return from Sydney thfis way, and play a match here.

Tho operations of the Auckland Building Society during the past year appoar to havo been of a most satisfactory character. To such an extent has the business increased that the total receipts amounted to £78,000 odd, while the net profit was £7,000. The customary dividend of eight per cent, has been authorised for payment to investors, as well as a bonus of two and a-half per cent. The proceedings at last night's moot ing of shareholders are reportea olsowhoro in the present issue.

"Veritas" writes, in reply to MrAlbin Martin, pointing out that while Mr Martin admits ho would not have written his lotter had he known tho plans for tho Free Library to be on their way, he does not answer that portion of his lettor which dealt with tho fact that no direct communi cation has been made in any way with tho City Council to provide for Mr McKelvio's generous gifts.

Tho steamer Mocgregor did not bring much cargo from Whangarei yesterday, but yet there was one small Item which caused somo uneasiness. It was a small package wrapped in white paper labelled "dyna mite," and was discovered in the vessel's hold whilo the cargo was being put out. Some of the hands appeared to conclude that the vessel was about to be blown to atoms by some infernal machine, and in great haste the "mysterious find" was re ported to Captain Johnson. He repotted the matter to Sorgeant Clarko, whp bravely proceeded te the scene of anticipated dis aster, picked up the dreaded parcel, opened it, and discovered about two dozen dyna mite detonators carefully packed in saw dust. Then tho anxious onlookers cried "is that all?"*and the sensation being ex ploded, work was proceeded with as usual, : Coursing matches took place at Faku ranga on Monday last between W. H. Pul forcTs blue bitch Nora Creina and J. Saxon's brindle bitch Fly, and Pulford's fawn dog Comet and Saxon's black dog Charlie. Both contests were won by Mr Pulford's animals. The stakes In the first match were £4 a-side, and in the second £1 a-sfde.

The Roman Catholic bazaar ot Otahuhu, which opened yesterday, was very success ful. It was opened again to-day, but will be closed during to morrow. On Friday it will bo re-opened, and tho Committee will be glad to see a number of Auckland visitors out to inspect the fine variety of goods offered for sale.

. To-morrow being the day for the Feast of Corpus Christi, there will be High Mass in St. Patrick's Cathedral at 10 a.m., and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in the evening. This is St. Barnabs'a Day.

There was a good attendance on the occasion of the re-appearance of Mr Greville and other members of tho South Company in " Peep o'" Day Beys" last evening. An extended notice of the per formance, which Was ah excellent one. will appear to-morrow.

Some energetic m.ifabets of the thieving fratetnity hav_ extended their operations to .he Workshops of various house and [ship carpenters, no less than, seven different cases having been reported within the last fortnight. Two youths named John Dris coll and James Calvert-are credited with being the perpetrators of these thefts, and theyareto answer before theßesident Magis trate at an early date to seven separate charges of stealing tools from Charles Sandford (two cases), David Sheehan, Josepk Townley, Alex. Warbrick, George Green, and Richard Freeman, the 'total value of the missing goods being estimated at about £10. It would appear that these individuals given to petty larceny prefer carpenters' tools to almost anything else, been.::."_ tliey are easily disposed of, and usually difficult to identify. In the cases under notice several of the stolen articles havo been discovered, and tho charges will probably be sheeted homo to the offenders.

. Considerable interest is being manifested in football circles regarding the probable issue of the Grafton-Ponsonby match which is to take place in the Domain on Saturday next. The latter, which has been the premier for the last couple of seasons, has found its toughest opponent in the maroon-clad club, and this season affairs appear to be more pearly equal, as tho Grafton has succeeded in playing a draw with the Gordon Club (which occupies the leading place this sea son), while the Ponsonby suffered a defeat at their hands, so that a very close contest is looked forward to at this the first meet ing of the old rivals.

Frequent complaints have been made by owners of small Vessels that they are unable to leave any movable article of value on board during their absence, for fear that it Will be stolen. On Monday night, somo light-fingered individual made a raid on Mr T. Henderson's yacht Rita, which was moored off the Railway Wharf, and on tho following morning a chronometer, Beveral blankets, and various other articles were numbered amongst the missing. Strictest search failed to reveal their whereabouts, so the matter has been reported to.the police, in the hope that the offenders may be made to answer for thoir misdeeds. This morning further complaints of pilferring reachedTthe police. The master of the steamer Scotchman reported that several articles of clothing had been stolen from that vessel; the master ol the schooner Mary followed with a report that some time last night the vessel's cabin was broken open forcibly, and several articles appropriated by thieves; while very shortly afterwards Captain Lewis, master of the Saucy Kate, interviewed the police to report that during the night the lock had been wrenched from the cabin door and a number of articles of clothing stolen. There are evidently some very determined characters engaged in these "acts of petty larceny, and it is to be hoped they wiil receive justice before much longer time is allowed them in which they may further indulge in breaking the law in this manner.

At a meeting of tho Aucklarfd S»ugt>y; Union Football Association on Monday night, it was agreed that match. jj|'mplre_ übo whistlos for the future in cagtp/ol in fringement' of tlieiules, as tlio present calls bagl?'_ould not,be -heard. 'Reference was mttdbto the siiiillddty botW Bon .lie North ShoreandNowton uniforms,and the Newton men, were requested to effect nn alteration before next Saturday. It was also undor gjMod that/a change should be mado to Obviato mistakes through the similarity of Grafton and Gordon jorsoys. A scratch match will bo played on tho Metropolitan Ground next Saturday between the clubs standing out and extra mon from the other clubs.

It transpired, on the authority of Ml' Niceol, at the meeting of the Harbour Board yesterday afternoon, that the direc tors of tho Freezing Company do not ap prove of the proposal to dispense with the ocean steamship tee at the Railway Wharf. A conference between a Committee of the Board ahd tho Directors of tho Committee has taken placo, but tho details were not made public. No definite decision was arrived at.

The Harbour Board has affirmed tho de sirability of appointing a residont consult ing engineer tor tho Calliope Graving Dock. Tho appolntm.iifc Will bo mado at a special meeting of the Board which is to bo held on Tuesday afternoon next.

Tlio "At Home" to bo held in tho Franklin Road Schoolroom this ovoning pro mises to be a success. Several ladies and gentlemen havo consented to come and give both vocal and instrumental music. Various gamos will bo_ indulged in, Altogether nn enjoynblo ovoning is anticipated, and what is equally satisfactory, refreshments will be provided.

Tho following mining telegrams were received yoetorday :—Now Find: " Return for week from battery, 20b' ounces ; tailings, 590z.. j total, 2950z5. amalgam." Colonist: " Amalgam for week, 1570z5." Dart: "Ton pounds picked stone from winzo, No. 2 roof, No 3 level; flooded out of winze."

An inquest on tho body of William Jones, who mot with his death in l'arnoll umlor circumstances detailed in our laßt evening's issuo, was hold at, the Hospital yesterday afternoon boforc Dr. Philson, ooronor, and a jury. A verdict of " Accidental Death " was returned,

The Auokland Hospital librarian acknow ledges with many thanks tho receipt of two largo parcolsof a variety of entertain ing and instructive literature from tho Auckland and Working Men's Clubs.

Mr W, H. Furiidll ro-dolivored his inter esting lecturo last evening ii? tho Newmarket Hall pn "The Origin.and Destiny of tho British and American Nations." Tho at tendance was as largo as. anticipated, and Mr Farnall was cloal. in his, ohlcidations of tho theory to which ho litis 'dovotod years of study. Tho lecturer is a thorough boliovcr in his Anglo-Israol viows, and is strongly of opinion, Dased upon Scripture, that the Anglo-Saxon raco are tho descendants of tho "Lost Ton Tribes." Tho loctUr'o was specially interesting, and tho lecturer re ceived the unanimous and hem-ty Voto of thanks of tho audiendO.

To the Editor: Sir, — Sunday-school teachers complain, and not without cause, that tho brass band employed by the Siilvn tion Army in perambulating the streets on Sundays materially iuterfores with the attendance of juveniles at the Suudny schools in tho more central parts of tho city. The youths seem to bo so taken up with the livoly music of tho band that thoy follow it, and thus absent themselves from tho schools. Without impugning tho good Intentions of the Army in tho least, it would bo woll for its officers to tako into consider ation the distraction which thoir perambu lations cause to the Sunday school children, with a view to redress tho grievance,— Yours, &c, A Citizen.

On Tuesday, 10th inst, tho Mount Res kill Licensing Committee held thoir annual meeting at tho Public Hall, Avondale. All the members of tho Committeo wero pro sent, with thoir clerk, Mr Seaman, and In spector Kelly. The Rev. R. Soinorvillo (Chairman) presided. After confirming tho minutes of tho previous meeting, and receiving a satisfactory report from tho In spector as to tho conduct of the Avondale Hotel, a transfer of liconeo for tho sumo from Joseph John Donovan to Jc hn Brayloy was granted; and also its ronowal to tho lattor for tho ensuing yoar. It was resolved that tho quarterly meeting intervening bo tween tho Juno annual mooting bo hold, when required, at tho ollico of tho clerk, Now Zealand Insurance Buildings.

To the Editor : Sir, —Kindly permit me through the columns of your valuable paper to ask tho Roy. T. McKonr.io Frasor, Of St. David's, to re-deli .er his lec ture on the " Ecclesiastos," as 1 am sure ho would have a bumper house, It being, to illy mttid, tho greatest blow to Ration alism and all anti-Christian teaching tho people of Auckland havo heard for many a day. Hoping Mr Fraser will see his way clear to comply with tho wishes of many who were unable to bo present nt tho do livery of tho abovo lecture, —I am, &c, PRK-BYTtKRUN,

A disgraceful scono'was witnessed nt tho corner of Queen and West Quoon-streets this morning, about 9 o'clock. A compara tively young man, dressed in tho garb of a mechanic or artisan, was being taken to the police station by two constables in so holp lossly a druhken state as to .bo unablo to stand on his foot. When picked up by the police, the man was lying in tho streot with one of bis shoes off, and unablo to giro any account of himself. Tho sceno attracted a crowd of people, who expressed surprise and regret at seeing a man incapably drunk at so early an hour of the day, and that, too, in the principal thoroughfare of the city.

The membore of the Ark of Eden Lodge of Good Templars held an open entertain ment last evening in the Eden Hall. There was a full and attentive audience. Mr Dowse occupied tho chair, and delivered a spirited address on the progress of the .principles of total abstinence, which had permeated tho realm of Christian civilisa tion, and was known wherever the language of Shakspere was spoken. Tho programme was submitted and enacted with fair success, vi.. I —Pianoforte solo, Miss Spragg; song, " Annie Lisle," Mr Townsend, with violin - accompaniment; " Swinging in the Lano," a fustic ditty, by Mr Williams; reading, a"A Loap for Life " (original), Mr Blackman ; a dramatic sketch in character, "Love and Tobacco," by Misses Campbell, was a capital repre sentation; address, " Statistics," by Mr Griffiths, of Liverpool; recitations, " The Rose," by Mr Hill, and "The Soldier's Pardon," by Mr Gee, were praiseworthy. A pianoforte duet by Misses Mears and Allies was one of tho prettiest things of the evening, and deservedly encored; also, tho violin solos by Professor Truscott (Berlin); song, " See That my Grave's Kept Green," by Mr C. Townsend, brought the pro gramme to a close. A vote of thanks, on the motion of Mr K. Mears, seconded by Mr Bailey, was accorded to the performers, and the whole closed with "God Save the Queen."

"TheLiquorTraffic andSpuriousLiberty " was the subject of an essay read last even ing by Mr Leyland at the meeting of the Ponsonby Baptist Christian Young Mon'B Mutual Improvement Association. The essayist treated the theme from two different standpoints—the secular and tho Christian. He combatted the arguments usually re sorted to by those who uphold the traffic on secular or business grounds very ably, quot ing John Stuart Mill's famous statement, " My liberty ends when it involves tho pos sibility of ruin to my neighbour." Tho liquor traffic was admittedly detrimental to the best interests of the community at large, and philosophers and writers on political economy were not slow to denounce it as a national bane which should be eradicated. Commercially speaking, it Was an unmitigated detriment to tho real prosperity of any country, because its gains were more than counter balanced by the serious losses it entailed in property, energy, and character. From the Christian point of view the liquor traffic could not but be regarded as a gigantic evil, which should not betoleruted for a moment. The sin of drunkenness was unsparingly condemned in Scripture, and this being so, all Christians should wage war against that vice. Leading preachers of all denominations wore loud in their denunciations against it, notably Canon Farrar, whose sermons on temperance were most worthy of perusal. The gaols, hos pitals, and lunatic asylums of New Zea land bear ample testimony to the soul destroying effects of the traffic in alcoholic liquors. Mr G. W. Owen spoke of the suppression of the drink traffic in several of the Canadian provinces by the Legisla tures thereof, and the reformation caused thereby. The sale of ardent spirits there was confined to chemists, who were licensed for that purpose, just as they were for the sale of other poisons. Such stringent law would prove as beneficial to New Zealand as it did to Canada. Mr Leyland was highly complimented on his essay.

Mr R. K. Davis will commence his class for book-keeping this evening in the lecture hall of the . oung Men's Christian Associa tion. All are invited to attend, Mr Davis will deliver an address,

,f_?,sl."OUr^ shipping column will bejgund partifeula-sof tho launoh of a now sfflW^hor tor fM__e.lt.ißhbono, Fore, anddpifr, of Syd&|f, VrhiSifi. has been builtjKMr D. Goufetindi.jmetoned tho "^jftunfc. and also sSih'o do-Ml. respecting a'SSjw eanooner yach-",|dr thoplbvornor of Tgj|^a, $$•' the constHlQtion.of which tenders;" have*_boon invited.^ T . V ' f-»j - ':>■_. An e„_traordihary mooting 0. the'feVl'6: bojders-6'f tho Alburnia G.M. Co. j'"VaS held1 late yesterday afternoon, for the purpose of considering a proposal to wind up the old Company, and to form a now One with a capital of i' 3,000 in 12,000 shares.of 5s each; Mr Thos. MncfTaHane presided. "After con siderable discussion, tho meotlrig.was ad journed for a montlr, in'Ordbr that tlie up shot of the "operations in tho Jprospectlng drive iiiay bo seeii.

An unemployed meeting in Auckland Is a novolty, and yet a gathering of that land took placo in Auckland to-day. In response to an ndvortisemeht in last oven' ing'slssue, about 50 or 60 men assembled in tho vicinity of the City Council offices this morning. The niajority were navvies, but ther. wero also spnio mechanics amongst the number. They all appeared to be strong able-bodied men, billing to work. Speeches woro made by Messrs A. Gilliaon, B. Phillips, C. CJdwsoii, arid John Hollands. The substance of tho remarks was to the effect that they were out of work, and had been for somo time. Thoy wore willing to, tako employment of any kind at 0. per day if it wore offered them. Tho men who had spoken wore appointed delegates to in terview tho Mayor,; lay tho grlevanco be fore him, ask his advico, and call another mooting for to-morrow .forenoon. Up till a late- hqur this afternoon, they had been unablo to so llis Worship. To tho Editor: Sir,—lf I woro to call tho pending case against tho captain of the Crusader a " conspiracy," I am afraid you would be the Ijrst to say you could riot insert my remarks, as thoy concern a case which is sub jtidice. Tho gonorol public will, I havo no doubt, bo equally sur prised witli myself to lind you havo given insertion to such a prejudiced and one sided epistle as appeared in your colume yostorduy under thp, signijturo "Viator." If it woro poesiblo for a vindictive- "spirit to dictate a lottor to your correspondent, and got him to attach his nam de plump to it, I should say ho bad tho Evil Ono nt liis olbow. Tho rosult of tho charge against tho inato of the Crusador, which you ro ported in the same papor, should bo quito sulliciont to suggest that tho incarnate ovil ones who instigated tho cook to make his accusation may likowiso bo implicated In the other. — I am, etc., An Attkntivk Li.sthnkk.

TELEGRAMS.

I'l'KK I'UKS.S ASSOCIATION.]

Ki,'maii_, this day.—There aro now 0(i miners on strike against tho now regula tions which havo been issued for lino of sludge chain. Tho mon complain that the regulations aro tco oppressive, and would not onablo thorn to earn more than a bare living, as tho prico of wator for sluicing is 20s (o 30s higher than in any other part of tho colony.

Whlunuton, this day.—ln tho Divorce Court a petition has boen lilod in tho caso Craig v. Craig. The petitioner, who ia a gardener residing in Hutt District, socks dissolution of marriage on tho ground of his wife's adultery.

The Ashburton Election.

Wellington, this day.—Nominations for tho Ashburton scat aro fixed for 25th Juno, The election takes plnco on July 2nd.

CuHlsTCUUllcil, this day,—At tho Avon Licensing Mooting yestorduy all applications for new liconsos wore refused, but all re newals woro granted to 11 p.m. At tho Heathcoto meeting all applications for ex tensions to 11 p.m. were refused.

SHOCKING SUICIDE.

Captain Ltlownll Shoots Himself at the North Shore.

Vsky groat oxcitoment was causal at Devonport ltist night- by tho rapidly-circu lated news that Captain Lilewall, who is well-known in tho district, hud com mitted Buicido by shooting himsolf. In formation of the occurrence ■ was for warded to Constable Hutchison, and ho was mado acquainted with tho circum stances of tho melancholy occurrenco, which aro as follows^: —Captain Lilowall has been residing with his mother at North Shore lately, but has bcon absent from home during tho lost day or two. Ho has been seen about town frequently during that timo, and was known to bo indulging heavily in drink. He went across by one of tho ferry steamors, and proceeded to wards his mother's houso in tho company of a young man named Moss, who was a friend of his. When thoy reached the vicinity of Mrs Lilowall's dwelling, Mr Moss proceeded inside to inform tho mother of the return of her son. Immediately afterwards, he hoard tho report of a pistol, iut had no suspicion of what had occurred. Whan he camq out sido, he called to Lilewall, but received no reply, and then he discovered the dead body of his friend lying on the street. There was a revolvor besido him and sufficient in dication of the fact that tho weapon had been recently discharged. Information was forwarded to the police constable of the district, 'and a messenger having been despatched for Dr. Parkinson, the body was conveyed to tho Flagstaff Hotel to await his arrival. Medical aid was, howovor, of no avail. Tho doctor dis covered upon examination that the bullet had ponetrated to the heart, so that death must havo beon instantaneous. Con stablo Hutchison searched tho clothing of deceased, with tho result that fifteen ball cartridge? wore found in'ohe of the pockets. The rash act is attributed to the effects of heavy drinking, combined .with financial embarrassment and domestic trouble. Somewhere about a year ago ho married Mrs Mason, widow of Thomas Mason, tho barman who was killed by falling down the stairs of the Nevada Hotel. At the time of her second marriage, Mrs Mason occupied the position of bamaid at tho Wharf Hotel. The couple had lived unhappily for a time, and then separated, Mrs Lilewall returning to her former situation in order to provide means for the support of her children. Deceased was recently brought up at the Police Court charged with attempting his own life and threatening" that of his wife, and was discharged upon his own recog nisances. He was engaged in tho coastal trade for a time, fand also in diving operations at the Triumph. He will bo remomborccl by old identities as a son of Captain Lilewall, of the old ehip chandlory firm of Lilewall and Rattray. It is well-known that deceased was embar rassed financially, and to-day wo woro shown a cheque which he had given in pay ment for goods only yesterday. When presented for payment, it was returned with the information that there wero no funds. Inquest this Afternoon. The inquest on the body commenced at tho Flagstaff Hotel, North Shore, at 2 p.m. to-day, oefore Dr. Torment, coronor, and a jury. The jury having viewed tho body, the following evidence wag taken :— Frederick George Moss, labourer, deposed that at the request of the mother of de ceased he went over to Auckland to look for the late Captain Lillewall, Found him, and he said he had been at the cemetery all clay, looking at tho cemetery all day, look ing at his father's grave. He camo over to North Shore with witness; appeared despondent, but spoke freely on general subjects while crossing in the steamer. He complained that luck was against him, and wished that he was back in Samoa. He talked of other little grievances, with which his wife was connected. He said that his wife had left him some time before. He walked as far as Stark and Quick's Gardens with witness to the resi dence of his mother, but refused to go in until witness first saw her. Witness went into the house and saw the sister of deceased, Mrs Kirkwood. She told him to bring Captain Lillewall in, and before going put he heard the report of a pistol, but did not think deceased had .fired it. Went out and called deceased by name, but got no answer. Walked to the spot where he ' had loft deceased, and saw. him lying, on the ground. There was a.revolver beside him, and a bullet-hole in bis coat, through which he could see the wound. Witness lifted his arm, and found that he was .quite dead. ' .

CABLEGRAMS.

* — Wt _|k 4s* OAa^B.^pOPy_tJlGHT.].. >;. j*2 j jjllaPK.-AEro ritEss AsfldoiATio.v.] _

*. London, June 10.—In the disturbance .between the Orangemen and National party, at Newry, the former wore tho aggressors,;

At Kioff, a_ Russian town on tho Rivei- Dnlepor, forty officers havo been arrested on suspicion of being Connected with tho Nihilist plots. Th'O Govern then t has consented not'to pledge England \v,ith reforbneo to Bgygt tfoforo consulting Parliameht.

[KKUTtii's TET-EGRAMS.j

(Received Juno 11.—12,15 p.m.) The Daniage to tho Florida's Frozen Moat. London, Juno 10.—A portion of thb cargo of frozen muttortex steamship Florida, from Wellington, has been landed in fair con dition, and realised foiirpona. per pound. The remainder Of the cargo, however, has arrived in bad condition, and has been con domnod. ' .

A private cablegram from London, re ceived at Wellington this morning, states that abqut 2,000 carcases of mutton by the steamer Florida, from Wellington, arrived in bail condition. The damage was not caused by dofootivo working of tho machinery, but is attributed to water, which' by some meant j found its way into tlie hold. ; .

Australian Cricketers nt Bradford. London, Juno 10.—Tho Australian team commencod a cricket match at Bradford to day against an elovon of Yorkshire. The wickot was heavy owing to recent rains, and groatly in favour'of the bowlers. The following was the result of to-day's play :— : Yorkshire, first innings, 55 ; Australians, first innings, 00. Yorkshire, socond innings, 72. (Itocoivcd Juno 11—12.50 p.m.) London, Juno 10,—Tho match concluded to-duy. The visitors requiring 68 runs to win, wont In for their second Innings, but obtained that number with the loss of soven wickete, and thus won tho match by throo wickets. Tho higliest scores were Rannerman, lbw., 14; Murdoch, caught, 17. Tho weather was fino, and there was a good attendance, but the recent rain caused tho wicket to bo heavy and groatly in favour of tho bowling. Australian Frozen Meat, Tho Melbourne portion of tho cargo of frozen moat'ox Sorata, .and consisting of _~(>7 carcases of mutton, has boon sold at 5d to s_d per lb. The meat was in excol lout condition. London Wool Boles. - The catalogue nt yesterday's wool sale comprised 11,100 bales. Tho market was firm.

AUSTRALIAN.

Opening of Vlotorlan Parliament.

Mklbouknk, this day.—Tho Victorian Parliament waß oponed yestorday by His Excolloncy Sir Wm. Stawell, In his speech on tho occasion, the Acting-Go vernor referred at length tti the recont'lnter colonial Convention, and announced that the minutes of tho proceedings at the Con vention would be laid beforo Parliament, With roferenco to tho rocidiviste question, tho epcech said that if unfortunately the protosts of tho Convention, tho diplomatic action of tho Imperial Government, and the unceasing oxortions of His Excellency's ad visers should prove Ineffectual, his advisers would be prepared to take such steps as the threatened dangor might necessitate, and with this view it was proposed to constitute a Council of Defence. Bills were an nounced for tho amendment of tho land laws, for the further extension of the rail way system, for the nmendmont of the laws relating to banking, and for tho constitu tion of a Metropolitan Board pf Works for tho city of Melbourne.

Small-Pox Scare In Melbourne Considerable excitement has boon caused by tho appearance of small-pox at Malvern and Prahran, partially confirming tho suspicion that tho disease which caused the death at tho sanatorium of tho man Barker was smallpox, although tho medical officers considered this case doubtful. Later.—The medical officers declare that the cases at Malvern are chicken-pox, and not small-pox. Melbourne Grain Market. ' Tho manager of the National Mortgage and Agency Company of Now Zealand (Limited) reports as follows:—Wheat, 4s 2d to 4b 3d ; market depressed. Malting barloy, steady, 4s 3d to 4b lOd. New Zea land oata : Feeding sorts quiet, 2s lOd to 3s Id ; milling ditto steady, 3s 2d to 3s 3d, Now Zealand oats, under bond, 2s 6d to 2s Sd. Market quieter. The Oriental Bank. Tho Orlontal Bank case was concluded yesterday, when Judge Molesworth decided that tho colonial affairs of the corporation should be wound up locally, under the ; Company's statute. 1 No-Confldonoo Motion In South Aus tralian Assembly. Adelaide, June 10.—In the House of Assembly this evening, Mr Cblton moved o voto of want of confidence In the Govorn raont. The House then adjourned.

NEW ZEALAND FOOTBALLERS.

[BY CABLK.-COPTMGHT.J

[rkuter's telegrams. 1

Sydney, this day. Tiiu Now Zealand footballers are now at Bathurat, where they have been hospitably entertained. They play a match to-day against fifteen of tho Western. distriot.. Steady rain fell in Balhurst during last night.

MEETING OF HITCHENS'S CREDITORS.

AN adjourned meeting of H. A. H. Hitchens's creditors was held yeßterday afternoon for the purpose ot confirming the appended.-resolution which Messrs L. D. Nathan and Co. had agreed to support, providing the bankrupt retracted his accusations against them, vis.:—"That 7_ 6_ in the £ bo accepted, payable at 4, 8, and 12 month-, by bills to bear date one day after the approval of the composition by the Court, the dobtor to retain possession overhis personal estato and proprietary business, free from interference and enoumbraucos for carrying out tho offer, the bankrupt to pay all costs in cidental to the bankruptcy proceedings." There woreproßont—The Official Assignee (presiding), and l-essrs G. N. Braisev, 8. E. Hughes, Ben., Gould, Neomogon, Snell (for L. D. N. and Co.), the debtor and his solicitor (Mr Greonway). The Official Assignee produced and rood a written rotraotatlon which MeßsrsL. D. Nathan and Co. had authorised to be prepared and sent to Mr Hltohens's solioitor for the bankrupt's signature but whioh ho had positively declined to sign. It was as follows:—"I, Honry Albert Holland Hltohens, compounder of proprie tary medicine-, hereby unconditionally with draw the statomont lately published in the " Now Zealand Horald'.' and Evening Star reflecting on the action Of Messrs L. D. Nathan and Co. with rcferonce to the caußo of my bankruptcy, and acknowledge my expenses were fully paid by them during my trip to the South Island. That instead of selling 600 oases I disposed of 150 oases. That the preliminary agreement for that firm to act as my agent took place prior to my fire. That for __U0 advanced by Mr I). Nathan I havo been charged at tho rateof 8 per cent, per annum, and JJ3CO by the firm at 10 per cent, per annum. That no Eroflt of 129 per oent. was ever given to Meaßrs .D.N. & Co. On tho contrary, thoy hold my roccipt for tho lists cf debts handed to them for collection, amounting to £131 less discount, 31 per cent, for prompt cash. That during my connec tion with Messrs Nathan and Co. Ihave always reoeived the greatest consideration and kind ness from thorn. " Auckland, Juno 9th, 1881." Mr Hitchens maintained tho correctness of his statements, but stated his willingness to sign the following apology which his Bolioitor pro duced^-"!, Henry Albert Holland Hitchens, compounder of proprietary medicines, of Auck land, having virtually ogreod to withdraw, the statements lately published In the 'N.Z. Herald' and Auokland Evening Star news papers with reference to tho causes of the above-named bankruptcy, said. statements are hereby withdrawn for myself. If I have made' any errors in my statements reflecting upon Messrs L. D. Nathan and Co., I hereby express regret for the same." This apology did not satisfy Mr Snell (representative of L. D. N. and Co.), and a long and desultory discussion ensued, varied by occasional passages at arms and an interchange of exceedingly sultry com pliments between the bankrupt and Mr Snell, the bankrupt laying all his troubles and misfor tunes at that gentleman's door, and Mr Snell in dignantly retorting to all the charges made against him. Meantime Mr Brasaey played the r§l« of peacemaker, and the wrath of both gintlemen having been slightly appeased, Mr itchens .apology wassoamended as toamount to an unconditional withdrawalofhlßaccusations against h. D. Nathan and Co., besides contain ing an expression of regrot for the statement that 120 per cent, was allowed I»." V. Nathan and Co. Itwaßthencommunioatedby telephone to Mr L.' D. Nathan, and that gentleman having signified his acceptance of it, the vote of the firm was given for the resolution agreeing to the composition of 7s 6d in.the fi, which was accordingly confirmed. The estate will there fore be witiidrawn from bankruptcy, and Mr Hitohens will new bare iv fresh start. ~_' .

PARLIAMENTARY.

r - ,-t.p . . . A. l_llV-,.TEl.Effl|Al'n.] i tF^OA" ot;^_|J >j-'p^ii i.i';pojft|fefe.] 5T ., |P* WjsEtiKaTaN.-fhis day.

Opposition Caucuses.- An Understand- ing Arrived At.

Immediately after tho adjournment of tlio House yestorday afternoon, a meeting of all sections of the Opposition was hold in Com mittee Room No. 1, Mossrs Groy, Macan drew. and Montgomery being all present. It is stated that the whole timo wag occu plbd in recriminations, which so disgusted Mr Sheehdn Und others that thoy expressed themselves determined to wubli their hands of all attempts to oust the Government. Tho meeting lasted till C o'clock, matters looking very blue. At 5.30 a circular was iSßued by the Grey and Montgomery whips calling an urgent meeting to be held at seven. The meeting was held and continued till 0 p.m., pro ceeding while tho House was sitting. At nine o clock word was brought from the meeting to the effect that the basis of an arrangement between Sir George Grey and Mr Montgomery had been arrived at, and he (Mr Macandrew) was riskod to move the adjournment of the debate. This, as will be seen from the reptii-t of the proceedings of the House, ho did shortly after 10 o'clock. From all I can hoar nothing definite was decided, but it would appear there is now Borne chance of an understanding being arrived at.

Mr Steward's declaration that if tho Ministry are defeated arid ho Is sent for lie will not teedtamohd tho Governor to send for cither Sir George Qi-oy or Mr Montgomery, but will advise a dissolution, seems to have appeased the Greyites. Opinions, however, differ as to the import ance attachable to the meeting. Mr Dar gaville is very sanguine. He says that all the difficulties have now disappeared, and that there will bo a majority of 12 against the Government. Other mombers with whom I have conversed aro not so san guine that the meeting has achiovod a solution of the difficulty. My Own opinion is that several Oppositionists whose politics aro tinged with Vogelism aro en deavouring to foment trottblo with the object of keeping matters tn statu quo till after tlio Asliburton oloction. However, another Opposition korero is convened for this forenoon, after which perhaps some thing definite will bo known.

Deserters from the Government. Mr Sutton's defection from tho Govern ment is now assured. Mr Petrie's reason for joining tho Opposition is said to bo as follows i—Last session ho was Bhaky, and the Government, to keep him, placed a number of West Coast works on the Esti mates. Tho money voted has not been ex pended, however, apd Joseph has conse quently kicked over the traces. The Government and Sir George Grey. It is considered probable-that Govern ment will withdraw the Address-in-Reply and refuse to go on with their work till Sir George Grey's motion is decided. Thoy will thus virtually elect him as the leader of tho Opposition. When Sir George gave his notice of motion yesterday the supporters of tho Government chccreci tho " grand old man " to the echo.

The "Post" on the Political Situation.

Tho "Post, ,in a leader which corro borates my statement of tho position of affairs yesterday - afternoon just before tho House met,winds up as follows: —"The situation, from an Opposition point of view, Is much worse to-day than it yds yesterday. Then there existed various sections of an Opposition ; to-day there are only fragments. Of course these fragments may ultimately coalesce, but in the meantime several members who were at first disposed to vote against Ministers have, wo believe, become so disgusted with potty jealousies and dis sensions on the other side that thoy have announced their determination to givo their support to Ministers." Royalty trom Coalmining Companies. A return of the royalty paid on coal mines for tho throo yoars ended 31st Murch last shows that during that period the Kawa kawa mine paid £1,440, while £5,177 was due. The total royalty paid exceeded £7,000. Tho only othor mine owing money to Government besides the Kawakawa is the Westport, which owos £1,964. Sir Julius Vogel as a Political Pivot. The "Post," which has assumed the rOle of exponent of Vbgelism, says:—"lt matters little, wo think, what intrigues take place, what alliances are made, or what discussions tako place in Parliament until Sir Julius Vogel's views aro before the country, and until the question is decided whether or not he will win the seat he is contesting. If he does win it, exist ing party arrangements, if there are any, will bo completely upset, and the political situation will be entirely changed." Hallway Reform. Mr Tole will ask the Minister of Public Works on Thursday if tho Government will appoint a commission of competent persons to inquire into and report on tho . railway tariff and railway management of the colony. Colonial Patents, One hundred and twenty-one patents were applied for in the colony during 1883.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

(BY TEI_EGRAPH.-SPECIAL r REPORTER.)

Wellington, thiß day, Tho Soene in tlie House.

When the Houso met yesterday after noon, it was evident that something of im portance had happened. There was an excited and expectant look on the faces of members, and immediately after the Speaker had said the prayers it was ap parent that Sir George Grey and Mr Mont gomery were the cynosure of all eyes. Mr Montgomery occupied his old seat in that usually occupied by tlie leader of tl c Opposition, and immediately opposite woe: : tho Premier, pale from tto effects of his late severe illness, and much subdued. Even his belltopper had not the jaunty set of yore. Sir George Grey took his seat on the left-hand side of the gangway, next ■ his faithful. henchman, Mr DeLatour. The buzzing of conversation was now abated. Mr Richardson, the new member for Kaiapoi, was conducted to the Speaker's chair by Messrs Macaridrefr and C. Johnston, and sworn in. Then followed the presentation of tho usual batch of peti tions. Then come a momentary lull, in which Mr Steward (Mr Montgomery's whip) jumped to his feet, and moved his amendment to the Address-in-Reply. Notices. Mr Sutton gave notice to ask what would be the cost of the Doomsday Book, now being compiled, and of what use it would be when completed. Sir George Groy gave notice of an Act to substitute affirmations in lieu of oaths, also an Act to regulate the admis sion of persons to.he practice of law. Mr Moss having given notice of his centralism motion, Sir George Grey rose to his feet, and, amidst considerable applause, gave' notice of his direct want of-coniidonco motion for Friday next. Centralisation Condemned. Mr Moss gave notice to move on an early date, " That the present system of centrali sation in the management of railways and other public works is detrimental to economy and efficiency, and is under the circumstances dangerous to tho presont unity of the colony." Railway Report. Mr Mitchelson's full reply to Mr Darga ville's question was that the North Island railway report and map would bo attached to the Public Works Statement, which would be presented in a fortnight. It was for his colleagues to say if tho information contained in the report would be made publio earlier. The Government would be prepared te make a distinct recommenda tion to the House very shortly. BUls by Mr Tole. Mr Tole introduced his Libels, Contempt of Court, and Juries Bills. They are almost identical with the bills bearing the same '"titles last session, with the exception possibly of the Juries Act, which will further provide for the payment of jurors attending coroners' inquests. Agricultural College, Custom House, and University Building for Auckland. Sir George Grey has given notice for addresses to the Governor for a sum of money to be placed on the Estimates for; an Agricultural College in Auck land, and also for a sum of money for the Custom House at Auckland. Mr Tole gave notice to move that £12,000 be placed pn the Estimates to erect a University College for Auckland. Too Many Districts. JJ|Mr Tole gave notice to ask the Colonial Secretary if the Government will introduce a measure to amend tho Town Districts Act so as to exclude districts forming under that Act from the rating clauses of the Counties I Act, v _, ...

Plf " . \J[ _.. Sir Goorgo Grey presented petitions from Tatrick Regan and W. Cflldicutt for gragte Sf land; also from 74 residents of Wangattiii, asking for small grants of. land. Sir^eprfep Grey also gavo notico*tl.^movo fe rjMftve ;ef ..absenoo for Major .JtfWfteoro, who wafc •f,pb-Oiit from the colony on .urgonfei private affairs. ' . ~:V ■" _ . On tho motion of Mr Wakoficld,'loavo.of ' absence for a week was granted to Mr Wyhn 'Williams. ' j Waste Lands Committee. '■

Mr Rolleston moved for tho appointment of a Waste Lands Committee iii tho follow ing terirls!—-That a seleot cbmmit.ee be ap pointed to consider all bills that may bo introduced into this House affecting lands of the Crown or land under the control ot public bodies; also to' report uppn all peti tions affecting such lands and claims arising therefrom, with power to confer or sit to gether with any similarcom-mitteo which may ■be appointed by the Legislative Council, and to agree to ,a joint or separate report, ,to _ have power to send for persons, papers, and records; to consist of ten mombers, three to be a quorum ; the Oommittee to'consist of Mr J. Buchanan, Mr Driver, Mr Fulton, Mr J. Green, Mr Hurst, Mr Macandrew, Mr Pearson, Mr Stevens, Mr J. B. Whyte, a,nd the mover. The terms wero slightly varied to bring other lands beside waste lands under tho charge of tho Committee. This waste lesson tho work pii the Petitions Committee. Mr Macandrew said that judging frcm correspondence ho had seen between a public body and the Minister pf Lands, he thought thero might bo somo occult reason for departing from the stereotyped method of proposing tlie motion. Mr Soddon said it was unusual for Go vernment to appoint'a Committee with a want-of-confidonce motion pending. The Committee as proposed was purely a Go vernmental one, and only contained the names of two .members of the Opposition proper. Tliore might bo members who had acceded from the Government side on the Committee. If there wero, perhaps the Government would indicate them, as it would give them some information. He moyed as an amendment, " That considera tioiiof tho motion bo postponed till after the consideration of the Addresa-in-Reply."

Major Atkinspn said the Government were rather inafixafterthe notices of motion in regard to the amendment of tho Address: in-Reply. The Government were, however, not prepared to delay the businessof the country. Had the motion been given by tho leader of tho Opposition, he would have been willing to give way, A vote 'of want of confidence had been moved for a gentleman whe was npt recognised as leader cf the Oppesitipn, and Government did not consider that they should postpone the business of the country in consequence of a resolution so moved. The hon. mombor for City East jtad moved a want-of-coniideneo raotioif _&_ next. As it was probablethat the disposal pf those metipnß would take three weeks or a month, and the Government declined to tako the responsibility of stopping the wholo business of the country during that time; if the leader of tho Opposition would tako that responsibility the Government would give way. Sir George Grey: Perhaps tho lion, gentlemen will indicate who is the leader of the Opposition. ■ ' Major Atkinson: Tho hon. gentleman who has just sat down. (Laughter and Applause.) Sir George Grey said the.Committees to be appointed wore not mere formal ones, as from tho names of them it was apparent they represented the Gevernment. It was quite possible that in a fow days there would bo a totally different Government. Ho did not think that Government should endeavour to set the Committees up.

Major Atkinson said Sir George Grey having accepted the responsibility, the Go vernment would assent to the postponement of the appointment of all committees. Sir George Grey : I toko the opportunity of thanking the lion, gentleman for his courtesy. Mr Fish said ho did not thank the Premier for finding a loador for the Opposition, and ho did not feel himself bound to follow that gentleman's advice. The postponement of the appointment of a Sossional Committee was then formally •agreed to, though Mr Fish endeavoured to complicate matters by urging the Govern ment to go on with the appointmont of the Petitions and Standing Orders Committee", saying that their work would bo merely of a routine character.

Dr. Newman gavo notice of his intention to move tho Addrcss-in-Reply nt 7.30 in the evening, whereupon Mr Barron rose and objected to two hours boing wasted to suit tho convenience of one individual. He thought they should go on with the busi ness till the usual hour of adjournment. Mr Shepherd, however, urged that it was only a common act of ceurtesy tp a new member te permit him to choose his time for moving the Address, and this remark finding favour with the House, Mr Barron did not press his objection. The remainder of tho afternoon sitting was occupied in discussing motions for re turns asked for by Mr Hutchinson; Eventually the motions were postponed till Wednesday week, During the course of the debate Mr Hurst made some sensible re marks with reference to the cost of returns, and thought the House should place some restriction on the moving for returns, which were seldom .looked at but by the members moving for them.

Tho Bank of New Zealand.

The Premier, in replying to Mr Hutchin spn's question, said that Government did not consider a penalty of £500 had been in curred by tho Bank of New Zealand neglecting within the statutory time to send in quarterly returns-of assets and liabilities to the Government. The detailed report of branches had been sent in in time, and it was a questiou whoso duty it was to prepare the general "abstract.-

Wfaen the House met last evening at 7.30 the gallerieswere crowded with aninterested audienco. A notable figure in the ladies' galleries was Mrs Batkin, who for many sessions has been a constant'attendant. Near her was a young lady, note-book and pencil in hand, ready to take a shorthand report of tho ensuing debate. Tho AddrcßS-ln-Boply.

i At a minute or so past the half hour, Dr. Newman, the mover of tho Address, rose amidst a complimentary burst of applause. He Is a dapper little man, apparently about 55 years of age, with a florid complexion and gentle expression.. He speaks with groat distinction, a most uncommon quality in our Legislature. Tha speech in the moving of the Addf-ess was of the usual cut and-dricd charactei-—an acquiescent com mentary on the Gubernatorial address, with occasional complimentary homilies on the {Ministerial proposals contained in the speech. He spoke for better than half an-hour, and when he concluded received a well-merited round of applause from all sidee of the House.

Mr M. W. Green, looking like somebody's butler, so ill did his swallow-tail befit him, thenrose to second tho Address. He was applauded by the Ministerialist-, and pro ceeded with his speech. His remarks were excellent in their way, for Mr Green is a good speaker, and the speech was of greater interest than addresses of tho same charac ter. Referring to the necossity of fostering local industries, he compared the present state of Auckland with Otago and Canter bury. Much'of the presont prosperity in the North was duo to tho attention that had been given to this matter, while tho South ern provinces had mainly depended on their pastoral and agricultural resources. He was aware that the kauri gum scattered pvor tho North was a means of employment to a great number of the labouring popula tion, but tho attention which Aucklanders had paid to the development of their indus trial resources was the great reason of Auckland's present great prospority. In conclusion, ho said that when asked by the Premier to second the Address, ho stated that he would reserve tho right to vote, against somo of tho measures brought for ward, and he was told—" Vote as you like." This elicited considerable amusement. Moving tlio Amendment, Mr Green having Bat down, tho formal business was over, and Mr Steward rose to move the amendment. He commenced by assuring the Hoiue of the cordial con currence of his side of the House with such matters in the Address as the condolence with the Queen in the loss of Prince Leo. pold ; but it was more in what was not in the address than what was in it that they found fault with ; but first aud foremost he thought there should be added to the speech an expression that the House and country had no confidence in the administration of the Government, and it was in pity for ihe moribund condition of the Ministry that ho had that afternoon oponed a door whereby they might taste of the cool shades of this side of the House—where the wicked Oppo sition cease from troubling, and tho weary Ministers are at rest. They might have performed the operation known to the Japanese as " the happydespatch," but thoy tenaciously clung to office. Tenacity of life was not a sign of a high organisation, and the continuous Ministry had resembled the Irishman's gun which had been in tho same generations but had been renewed look and barrel. tHe twitted the Ministry with bringing down bills telling the House tljat they wer^ of the

c ... i "-'■ • " "' g gfP^_f*p{S.B-bIe f i_3|ortanco, and oh their discovering ..them to' be unpopular to the Hous.e d«p_)i6g Tjfem. Hp asked wher. now was .t^p;'National Insurance proposal} and tho proposal ;tjt> reform the Upper House; If the Government thought the latter measure was one'-'that should havo been carried it was their duty to stick to it. and endeavour to get it passed. If three years ago it was necessary that hospitals and "charitable institutions should bo placed on a better footing so that the grants to all parts of the colony should he allocated fairly, was it not desirable now \ Though fpr three years some hospitals, hailtj boon supported by voluntary contributions/ ' 'wJ_ile others wero1 provided for by the colony, the lion, gentleman oppos-to-had..,, done nothing in the matter. Wewerefiow on the eve of a general election; but should ifot tlio matter of the Legislative Council liave been decided during the duration of the' present Parliament 7 WLy tied they no proposal regarding the Railway Land Bill? There was not tho • slightest reference to it in the speech. He know the matter was surrounded with . difficulties, but the Ministry had not en deavoured to show them how to orerepmi. • the, difficulties,-but had gone i_t search of ai j better tenure than freehold. He admitted s that the Government had effected somfi wf reforms during their term, but these were reforms initiated by their predecessors m office. The Premier had .taken great-■ ciredit to himself for his local government proposals. Had they not been an utter _ failure? Had the, promise made fey hi__;. when1 he introduced the Roads* :«s_d--i Bridges Construction Act, that roads and bridges should never be heard of In the House again, been fulfilled? Referring to the Minister's stumping tour of the country, he said if in meeting the people they used less finesse and more honesty they would be better prepared toy meet an assault such as this. He accused Major Atkinson, at his Wellington meeting, m of setting the North against the Southland, likened it to the tactics of pick-pockets in':, big cities, who get up rows for the purpose' of annexing the sport. They bad aimed at the disunion of the colony.

Major Atkinson : What about your chief ? t Mr Steward: My chief will speak, for j" himself. He then proceeded to accuse the;. Government of profiting by circumstances'' ,to drag out the term of their official;: existence. They had done it by a policy of temporising and finessing. At the beginning 9 o^ this Parliament the Ministry were in-a minority, but kept their seats by keep- - ing back their measures. Last year they camo assured of a majority, and, then trampled on the rights ef private"" members fpr the purpose pf getting their moasures through. They were not only'! condemned for their vacillation, but Iglso for-the result of their policy. Did theyy claim to hove the confidence ofthepeoplo " of the colony ? Had their laqd policy been?,, a* success ? Where they entitled to support"" for their pelicy? With respect to nativey lands, first, they put a re_.rietien pn native j_j lands, and then removed it, no doubt to the benefit-of certain persons, but net to the people of the colony as a whole; and now there was a proposal to resume the v. pre-emptive right. Their policy was one"' thing to-day, wculd be another. toga morrow, and a third next day. .Did* they take credit to themselves: for.. the management of railways ? Last year.': the revenue had fallen to £600,000; the takings on it will be more next year. H . economy were possible this year, why was it riot possible before? And if the Premier had carried out Mr Swanson's economy pro-' posals, he could not have a deficit of. £1,509,000 on this year's budget, which it appeared he had. The Premier had denied that there -was any great depression in the colony whilst at Auckland, but on coming, to Canterbury he altered his tuno. He (Mr Steward) said the depression in the island from which he camo was greater than he had ever known since) 1868. The Ministry bad got into pffico in 1869 by accusing the then Ministry of being the cause cf the then existing depression. If that charge was not then true the lion, gentleman might nOw take to himself a share of the responsibility for the present depression. He twitted the, Government on the unimportance cf most of .the matters mentioned in the Address, such as the Parcels Post and Married- Woman's Property Bills. The parcels post, lie said, might be useful shortly in trans ferring pprtfplios from one set of gentlemen to anpther. Cempared with the parcels pest, federation and annexation was a great question, but he believed the country cared as much for the one as for the other. He challenged the Ministry to dissolve, and said when the ballot-box was opened the result would be the same as the result of his amendment. Referring to the railway tariff, he said that the Government had taxed the wheat and let the Wool gp free. In cencluding he desired to say a few werds pn his own pPsition. He did not come und or the category of those" who ruehed in where angels fear to tread. He had moved the amendment merely as an executive officer of Mr Montgomery's party. He disclaimed all intention of office-seeking, and if he were sent for, would not even.; recommend that .any particular gentleman be asked to form an administration. He and those who thought with him desired an : immediate appeal to the country. . (Land I applause.) - - V.j . Mr Levestam seconded the amendment, and lengthily attacked the Government policy-in tho past, dwelling specially on the deprivation of Nelson of part of it. representation. He objected to the expen diture on public buildings. '- A railway, station was to be built at Dunedin to cost1 pver a quarter of a million. '"' :-.. Mr Fish: No. y; '..', Mr Levestam: But I say yes, and my' hon. friend will have opportunity pf con tradicting me if he wishes. They were building a large gael at Wellington be- cause the Premier said that the gaols of the' coiony were disgracefully crowded. Nowi at Nelson they had as nice a gaol as anyone' could wish for—(laughter)—and it was' empty, Still they sent prisoners from' Marlboro' to Wellington. - —- ■»— Mr Macandrew moted the adjournmei-t^ of the debate'till to-morrow at 7.30. T- •■' .'.-"" Mr Trimble mbved as an amendment, " That it bo adjourned till 2.30 to-morrow."i The amendment was carried on the voices. rj ■~-;.-! " The House rose at 10.15 p.m. - ~j.(_.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

(BY TELEGKAPH.-SPECIAL REPORTER:)

The Council sat yesterday afternoon— Hon Mr Oliver acting as the Government leader. - . " . Mr Geo. Thome's Taotlcs. y - > Replying to Mr Waterhpuse, Mr Oliver A said that 300 surrender forms for insurance V hod been printed two years ago at Lytteltbn-"- Gaol, to the order of Mr Geo, Thorne, jun. As there was,, a legal dispute pending be- * tween that gentleman and Government, he would say nothing further in the meantime than that these were not Australian Mutual Provident forms. • ,-1 ..,. .■ •

The appointment of the Petitions Com-.. mittee gave rise to further debate, but ulti- r mately tho Committee was appointed. ■•'■

The Criminal Code and Land Transfer Registration Bills were read a second time. A Bill to amend the law relating to the guardianship of children was.read a first time, and notice of amendment to the * Bankruptcy Act was given by Mr Wilson, .j the object being to have bankruptcies, where '"' the debts were under £20, dealt with sum- , niarily. Major Ropatu'e Pension. .:b

Sir G. Whitmore, in moving for papers . connected with Major Ropata and Te, KoDti, severely criticised the action of the Government in leducing the pension granted to the former. Other members joined in the condemnation, and the motion was agreed to.

EXECUTIONS THE WEST COAST MURDERER.

(BY TELEGRAPH —PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Hokitika, this day. John Donogiiuk, found guilty of the murder of James Gifford at Maori Creek, was executed' this morning. Ho made a long, rambling statement denying his guilt. On mounting the scaffold he exclaimed in a loud voice three times, "God Save Ireland." Death was instantaneous. ■•:,.

FATAL MINING ACCIDENT.

(BY TELEGRAPH.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Kumara, this day. Charles Klus, who used to keep an hotel at the mouth of the Teremakau River, was suffocated in his claim. At the inquest a verdict of accidental death was returned.

Beware of packages of injurious stuff purport ing to make genuine Hop Bitters; also prepara tions anil fluids said to contain all the properties b. Hop Bitters. They spring up on aooount of the great popularity 01 the genuine, whioh is only put upin large square-panel ambor-coloured , bottles, with the names of " Dr. Soule" and "Hop Bitters" blo.wn in the glass, and ig the belt family medicine ever made. Rwd. —*-.--• •

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11: 1884.



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