SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

man OTATwnJThlsEvoninß, 10.0 HIBH WATER To . morrow Morning, 10.19 BUNSBT.-Thia Evening, 7.11 BUNRIME.—To-morrow Morning, 5.10 MOON'S AGE.—Fiust Quarter, 21th, 1.5 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY.

Ililomabana,s.s., Carey , from Russell Wellington, s.s.. Stephenson, from Tauranga Fanny Kelly, ketch, Williams, from Mongonui

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVfiNINO.

Hnuthcrn Crosß, b.s., Hutchison, for the South Waitaki, s.a„ Crawford, for Whangarci Macgregor, B-s., JohnßOn, for Whangaroi

to-day.

Bol.'a Alary, barquo, Bram iton, for Whanga

parapara Wellington. s.s., Stephenson, for Whangarei Grillln, sohr., Colllngs, for Ri ussell

Inwards Coastwisk.—M arlon, from Kni para, with 51,000 ft timber; Tamaki Packet, from Tauranga, with 22 tot s sulphur; Rata, from Waiara. with SO.OCOft timber; Fanny Kolly, from Mongonnl. with 31,756 ft timber; Dream, from Whangaroi, with 50 tons clay; Violet, from Thames, with 16," 00ft timbor.

Outwards Coastwise:.—lds ~ for Matakana; Tamaki Packet, for Taitrani ra; Grillln. for Russoll; Rata, for Wainra.

The barque Laira was dooko 1 at high wator this morning for outward cleani dng.

Tho barquo Trosto entered outwards at Sydney, for Kaipara, on tho lit! Inst.

Tho barquo Gro.micro nrrivcit at lUelbourno from Kaipara on Janua.t7 13.

Tho brigantine Clniism an loft Melbonrno for Now Zoaland on January. ?.

Tho brig Naiad arrived at. Sydney from the MaiMlkau, Now Zealand, on January 12.

Tlio barqno Devonport clcwrcd at Sydney for Kaipara on the 12th inst

The brljsintino Lapwing aTrivtd at Towns ville from Now Zealand on tht'Jlth .Inst.

Tho brigantino Boreal is, wlii'ch left Kaipara on 'li" 31st ultimo, mado the pacsngo.to Sydnoy ta 12 days.

Tho s.s. Wdlllngton arrived from Tauranga oany tuts morning with pnssongoi-s t -nd cargo. She lof.i again for Whangnroi at 10 «jd i. Tho brigantino Defiance, now duo nl Knipora rrom Mblb.uirnc, is to load timba r at To Kopuru and return to Molbourno.

The Northern Company's now twti > scrow stoanior Gnirloch (Captain HUI) is now '. 109 days <mt from Greenock. Sho may put. into ; Hobart, i.? my cmne on lloro without doing so. but in oither caso she sliould bo heard of vory at 'on. The sohoorfor Cleopatra is oxpectod I it tho Mannknii from New Plymouth to load with thnber for Lyltbiton.

The b.s. Rotomahuna arrived from Rum ell at an early hoar this morning, with 6 balos i mdl tag wool. .PaßPongers-Mrs Johnson, S . -ears Paskey and A. Collins. Tho following vessels have entered outw irds at tho Comma:— Fanny Thornton, fco tuh ''Oflmr. for Noumea, via Tairua; Ryno, brig an ttno, Bswioko, -for'Suwartow.

The barrruo Bella Wary cleared at I tho Customs today tor Wimngaparapara, whi to alio will load timber tot Sydney.

Tho brigantino Lady Mabel (Captain Corbet ') arrived at Timaru' from Newcastle on tho lStl i inst. Sho experienced a hurricane for forty ■ eight hours during tho voyage, nnd behave . well. Iho Lady Mabel loads produce at Tiniarni for Auckland.

The s.s. Rlngaroomo, wliioS'nrflTod lato yes- \ terday afternoon, left Sydney on tho 15th ins ~ at 1.00 p.m.. anrt passed Threo Kings at 2.40 p.m. on 1 uosdny. Experienced light variable and iluo weather throughout tho voynce. Wo aro Indebted to Mr P. A. Macmei kaiii. jrurser, for press parcels, report, &c , and also for tho pa t Bonger Hat which was published lasS ovonlnt 4 . ! I ho Ringarooma loft again for Sydney earl; r. this evor.lng. Sho took tho following pawongon j to join tho Mcssageries Maritimes stcnmahii a Yarra, at Sydney, bound for London :—IX".-. nnd i Mrs Hlanos, Miss Isaacs, Mr and Mrs A. J. Kirk-, ! man, and 2 children. \ \ HAS been favoured with instruction! j from Milncr, Esq., who is rotuminp , igland, to sell by miblic auction at his resi ~ deuce, Cleveland Read, St. George's Bay. Par noil, on Tuesday, January 27,1885, at 12 o clock noon, HIS VERY SUPERIOR MODERN HOUSE HOLD FURNItURK. Houso Linen, Glass China and Earthenware. Cutlery, Silver Goods. Electroplated ware, Oil Paintings, Hpturos, Articles of Virtu. Carpets. Rugs.. Kitchen Utensils, Superior Piano, &c..m Dravine-room. Dlninj?-room. Breakfast-room, Sovcn Bedrooms, Batii-rooin, Kitchen. Pantry, and Wan-nonML As por catalogue to bo obtained at the plllco or. tho A'lolioneer, the wholo. bom<» —ml to ni ».

SHIPPING MISHAP AT KAIPARA.

Informaii'Sn has boen received to tlio etfect that tno brig" Waver and brigantino Camllle. now well-known at this port, have boon athoro on the under otfgo of tho shoal. Knlynra Bar. Thoy stuck fast for about threo hours, and woro floated otT with 'thtf Hood tide, after which both ■vt-siels wont up-thtf'Wairoa. 'i'hoy bads-ts tuinod Bomo damage, and worn leaking, so ti.it it is likely thoy willhaVe to discharge.

UNION COMPANY'S STEAMER OHAU.

The Union Btoa-»»Bhlr»- Company's now steamor Ohau left Poi» Clislhiors for this port, via tho East Coast, yestwtiny, and will arrive here about tho 29th. Thp<>hau, which arrived at Port Chalmers from Gla*«ow on Wednesday, tho 14th Inst., is a veeeol very much like tho Omapore, and is to bo employed, i»-!-on,iunotton with hor. In the Kast Coast and Greymonth trado. Sho is a stool screw stoaliioref TBO tous r 'gister, and her orginosaro 500 honso-.poworin dicated. Sho will bo a valuablo aa '11Uoe< to the lino fleet of tho Company.

THE BARQUE GLENLORA.

The barque Glonlora, which left London* oa October 3t, should put in an appearance h ore very shortly. SBC brings tho folio n ing cargo: — Plain cottons, £1000; coloured cottons, £000;' printed cottons, £500; woollens and worsted", , £'0l: flannels, £300; llDcn. In baloc, £200; linen. in cos . «00; cotton and woollens, £w0; muslins, *100; ribbons, £tUO; millinory, £00; hoslory, £10.] haberdashery, £600; cotton and linen shirts, £100; apparel. £1,81)0; blankets, £100 JI carpets and ruga, £100; counterpanes. £200; felt hats and caps, £100; wrot leather, £10;, saddlery, £T0; sheathing felt, £10; floor elotb. £500 : tablo baizo, £8') ; sewing machines, £550; aiaicultural machinery, £210; laila and general machinery, fiMO; books, £SK); paper, 220cwt; stationory, £250 ; pttper hingings, £250; upholstery. £110: brushware, ,J*tO ; plated and papier niacin" goods, £10 ; toys. d 600; pianos, £80; printing materials. £150; chain and anchors, U ton? ; hardware cutlery, £100 ; oar and rod iron. 39 tons ; galvanised iron, 7 tons ; pig iron, 1A tons; tin plates, 50 boxes ; iVou nails, 2 tons; linseed oil, 910gallB ; animal oil. Myalls; beroeino and naphtha, 1,000 galls; p*int colourß, £00; pitch and fir,- 20 barrels; flint glass £100; win dow glass, £lfO ;■ china and earthenware, £90; gloss bottles, £80; bran and flour bags, £<t>o; canvas, £240 ;■ slates, iO tons; marble, £50; British spirits In case, £180; beer in glass, 41 harls; preserved lfeh, not rated, £180: assorted oilmen's stores. £100: vinegar, 2,260gp1J5; foreign salad oil, UOgalls; pepper and spices, 2cwt; cocoa, oObwt; mustard. £80: starch, £110: White salt. 97. tons; bicarb, soda, SOcwt; silicate soda, 2 tons; candles, 13Gcwt; treacle,2scwt; confectionery and peel; £30: apothecarywaro, £100; tart.- acllf, £15; condensed milk, £200; Ctata flour,-£soi

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRrVALB. llalia RdOkh; s.s., Campbell, from Waitara Hanriah Mokau, b.s.; Windsor, from Waitara Argyle, s;b„ McArthur, from Waitara Oreu, s.s., Itobtrtson. from Waitara.

DEPARTURES.

Argyle. s.s., McArthur for Hokianga- Hannah Mokuu, s.s., Windsor, for Ka-.vliia.iuid Woltara Lalla Rookh, b.s„ Campbell, for Waitara1

Tho s.s. Orotl arrivod from Waitara all 2 o clock to-day. Tho Hteamors Lalla Rookh andHannahMokaw arrived from Waitara thia morning, the former with 300 sheep, and the latter with 90 Bheep and 3( kogs buttct. They both loft again for Waitara this evening. The s.s. Argyle arrived from Waitara at 7 o'clock this morning wHh 150 sheep.and Messrs McGee, Johnston, Walpolo, nnd Miss Brown as pwscngers. Sho left again at 1 o'olook for for Hokianga, with 120 bags flour, 15 cases of biscuits, 3-1 gunmen sugar, 20 coils wire, 21 camp ovons, 12 boxes tea, 10 sacks oats, and 108 packages sundries.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Oamabu, this day—Cleared: AlccsMs, Munn, with wool and tallow, valued at £31,000, for London. Melboubne, yostorday.—Sailed, this after noon ; Manapouri, for the Bluff. Port Chalmbbs, yeßterday.—Sailed: Ohau, s.s., for Auckland, via East Coast. SvDNRy, this day.—Arrived, on Mondoy: S.e. '/. I'ttlandia, from Auckland.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails will Close as under—

This Day. For Thames, por Rotomahana, at 4 p m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Thursday.-22nd inst. For Waiwera, To Kapa. Warkworth, per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. , For Noumea, por Fanny Thorntoh, ut. 11 a.'m. For Gisborno. Napier. Southern Ports, and Australian Colonies, por Rotomahana, at 11 ajn. For Now Plymouth and Bout&om ports, por Orcti, at 1 p.m. For Thamea. por Rotomahcna. at 4.30 p.m. For Tauranga and Opoti&ri, per Wellington, at 5 p.m. F.r Whitlangi, Ui»sor Mill, and Tairua, por Glcnolg, at 5 p.m. Frtoay. 23rd January. For Cowos.and Coromandel, per Coromandol, at' 130 p.m. Monday, 20th January. For Giaborne. Napier. Wellington, and Groy mouth, per Herald, at I p.m.

Tuesday, 3rd February, Per s.s. Zoalandla, as follows :—

ior Navigators Islands. Sandwich Islands. United Stutou of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central, and South America, and Britluh and Foreign West Indies, at Lp.ra For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at I p.m. Money orders, rcglstorod letters and r.owa papora, at U. 30 a.m. Lato lottore, boaring an oxtra foe of slx ponco In addition to tho postngo, will bo reoelvod by tho Mall Agont on board the Steamer up to tlio time of sailing. This mall will bo duo In London on Friday, 13th March, 1865.

Noti . — Tho Omaha loaves Lyttelton, tot Chatham Islands, on Monday. 26th Instant, at nbout 3 p.m.

S. B. BIBS, Chlof Foatmastor, Chief Post-ofllco, Auokland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

January 21, ÜBS. Abbott's Opora Houso—"Not Truo."B p.m. Sailors' Roat- Moetlng of Subscrlbors. DIo cesau Olllce, t p.m.

Crimean Veterans—Robson's Dining Rooms, 7.Sop.m.

Theatre Royal—Mississippi Minstrols Enter tainmont, 8 p.m.

H.A.0.8. Socioty—Juvenllo Contingent, 7.30 p.m.

Aloxandra stroot School-room—Monthly Mpi. Ing of Sanctuary City of Auokland, A •£'* 7.30 p.m. , (n«O.S., Working Mon's Club—DomonstT,. r' _, . ing Committeo, 8 p.m. -station Cator- Masonlc Hall. Nowton—R. '„ „, ~ of Auokland, 7.30 p.m. A.P. Meeting, City

Births.

lf\' ,ON.—On January 10, at Adolatdostrcot, •p'Tr rooiuan's Bay, tho wife of John Gibson of a j con.

Marriage.

PENNALLTGEN-SEAGAR.-On January 19, IS-tf, at tho Registrar's Olllco, Auokland, James Alfrod. eldest sun of Air John I'ennalli gon, of Auckland, to Mary Elizabeth, second daughter ot Mr Wm. Sougar, of Auckland.

Deaths.

MASON.—On tho 20th January, 1883, at Auok land, Ami Mason, relict of tho lato James Mason, lato of Coromandol; nged 65 ycura. R.I.P. Melbourne papers please copy.

Tho funeral will lonvo hor lato rceidonco, Newton-street, oH Nowtou ltoad, to-morrow •Thursday) attornoou, tho 22nd, at 1 o'clook. Frionds please nccopt this invitation.

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

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1885.

For the cause that looks assistance. For the wrong that needs kblstanoft For tho tuturo In tho distance, And the good that we can do.

Sir Julius Vogel, in an interview with a Star special reporter who waited upon him at Waiwera, lias courteously furnished us with several interesting items of information upon topics that are engrossing public atten tion. With regard to the policy of the Cabinet, as shadowed in the resent erratic movements of the Hinemoa, the Colonial Treasurer, while declaring that the reports already circulated are unofficial and inaccurate, thinks the time has not yet arrived for publish ing the correspondence that has passed between the colony and Home Govern ment. He states definitely, however, that the Government never at any time meditated the annexation of the islands, but merely intended to send down a mission of investigation, act ing upon the petition of King Malietoa. Why this project, which seems open to little objection, should have caused so muoh excitement at the Colonial OH.cc, and why k should have been abandoned, is by no means evident. It was clearly within the authority of tho Government of this colony to send a Commission of Inquiry to any place under the sun, and the fuss that has been made about the affair appears ridiculous if nothing I more than investigation was the object of the mission. The reports that have found currency and have been cabled to England, on the authority of which Prince Bismarck's remarks were mani festly based, must also have tended to embarrass the achievement of the wishes of the Cabinet, and we are the more puzzled to understand what can have been the motive of concealment. A mere Commission of Inquiry, pro ceeding upon a petition the receipt of which was commonly known, was not a project about which there need have been amy mystery, nor would it i have been possible to equip the Go vernment steamer for a two months' f voyage, and despatch her on this mis sion, without the knowledge of the tpeople. For the elucidation of this I puzzle we must, therefore, await further light.

i The nature of the communications that have passed between the Colonial ; Government and Earl Derby, although not specifically given, is pretty clearly ; indicated in Sir Julius Vogel's remark ; that "The English Government does not take the colonies into its confi dence, and hence ths awkward position in which the colonies are placed. It has been a perpetual struggle to ascer tain the facts." Although the Trea surer only gave it as a matter of opinion that the recent action of New Zealand will lead to some decided step by England in settling the affairs of Samoa, we have no doubt whatever thatonr Government have received an assurance of this. Very likely Earl Derby has promised to send down a man-of-war to conduct the investigations for which the Hine moa expedition was being prepared. There is, however, no likelihood of England annexing the islands, or acting out of harmony with the agreement with Germany for the maintenance of an independent government there. The action of Germany throughout lends strong colour to the Treasurer's opinion that there is no heart or sin cerity about this German colonisation, and that if a stable government, under which their claims would be recognised and they could carry on their trading enterprises, were offered, the Germans would be perfectly content to recognise it. In Fiji, the German subjects who had acquired land before annexation were thoroughly dissatisfied with the settlement of their claims by the Colo nial Government, and after years of wrangling they have obtained a mixed Commission, to whom their grievances wiil be referred. Fears of a kindred fate, besides their knowledge of the taxation and depression that have attended the intervention of the Eng lish Government in the affairs of Fiji, would lead the German traders who have very large interests in Samoa to agitate against a repe tition of these experiences in that group. When we remember that they have been agitating and petitioning Germany to annex the islands for many years, the tardy action of Prince Bismarck reveals no colonising en thuaiasm.

Sir Julius Vogel's assurance that the North Island trunk railway is to be pushed on from three points will produce a feeling of goneral satisfaction here, and the intelligence, now pub lished for the first time, that the Go vernment have placed another half million of the reserved scrip which was mentioned in Major Atkinson's finan cial statement, is also a subject of con gratulation, confirming, as it does, the favourable results of the last loan. The time is exceedingly opportune for an address from a Minister upon these and other great questions that have been occupying men's minds through out the colony. We hope, therefore, that the Treasurer's health will permit of the fulfilment of his intention to make known his views more fully, by a public address, before leaving Auckland.

Tho object in view in Sonding additional English troops to Souakim is disclosod in our cablo dospatchos of to-day, and proves to bo nothing more serious than tlio con .tniCtion ola rood from that port to Borbor. No doubt tho Turkish soldiors despatched to Souokim aro eont in accordance with an arrangement with tho British Govornmont, and aro designed to assist in tho making of tho rond, Thero is, therefore, not tho most remote commotion botweon thoso move ments of troops and tho demand made by Italy to havo tho port of Massowah handed ovor to hor. It, is intended, no doubt 1. . the Khartoum expedition shall rot-fl, b ' of Borbor and Souakim, aty^,, ; .^ y* keeping open of Ife f coim j linication botweon X inrtoo >* d Xc( , g .. cssontial to tl-' . • ~ , , , ,- c xi S 1 .10 subjugation and holding of tiie aourj_ u Wo aro w j t | lout furtijor nowa Jy tho expedition ; hut on tho principle Mat "no nows is good nows," there nood bo no anxiety on that account.

Tho ngonts of tho Pacific Mail S.S. Com pany havo to-day received a cablegram stating that tho s.s. City of Sydney left San Francisco on the 18th inst., ono day after time-tablo dato. Sho may thcroforo bo looked for on Saturday, 7th Fobruary.

PrivatoadvicosfroiiiSomaphoro, Adelaide, stato that tho Roy. Thomas Spurgcon unci Mr Drivor, who was formerly v student with thoßcv. Allan Webb, havo arrived Ihero en route for Auckland ; also, Mr Horton, of tho "Horald."

Dr. Haines, who is starting on a tour of Europo, loft by tho s.s. Kingarooiua for Sydnoy to-day, a largo luimboi- of friends being on tho wharf to sco him oil. Tho doctor, who is accompanied by Mrs llainos, expects to return in the course of a yeut.

A telegram was received to-day from tho Hon. .1, A. Tolo, informing the New Zoa land Timber Company that His Excellency tho (iovornor has been pleased to atithotiso an oiler of a freo pardon to any poison or *>orHOiis implicated, not being tlio principal olfondor, who shall givo such information as will lead to tho apprehension of the person or poisons who caused tho recent tiro. It is to bo hopod that this proclamation, added to tho liberal reward offered by the Com pany, will bo tho moans of bringing tho riorpotrator to justice if, as is suspoctod, tho fire was caused wilfully.

No change in Bank and Insuranco stock ; buyois in Loan and Mercantilo, _C 5 10s. Prihco Imperial, salos lis Cd, 12s; buyers, UaGd. Cambria, lis Cd.

Meetings of tho croditors of Arthur Osgood Field, a clerk, and of Georgo Clinch, a labourer, wero to havo been held to-day, but lapsed for want of a quorum.

A littlo cliniculty.arisiiiy out of a landlord and tonant disputo.occurred at Parnell yes terday, and will probably bo fully vontilatod boforo tlio law courts. Somo timo ago an old soa-captain named Oukes sought refugo from duns in tho Bankruptcy Court, nnd the cottago In which ho had beon ronidiiifj with his wifo and family was claimed by Mossrs G. W. Owon & Co., who, wo bolicvo, hold a bill of salo ovor tlio property. Ookos, it appears, donicd tho right of ownership of tho firm, and steadfastly maintained his right to tho proporty by continuing to rosido on it and refusing to pay ront. To-day un omployi" of tho firm, acting presumably under instructions, proceodod to tlio cottago and turned Oakos's furniture out. Tho 3tiasi-bailill' thon placed a now lock on tbo oot-jtind was taking himself off, whon Oakos appeared on the scone. Tho old tar, naturally very wroth at boing so un ceremoniously turned out of houso and homo.Cobtaincd accoss to tho cottago by moans of on upstairs window, and thon brooking open tlio door replaced his house hold goods. Ho thon proceeded to search for a policoman, into whoso hands ho in tondod placing Messrs Owen's agent, whilo that worthy liied to town with a similar intention regarding Oakcs.

Strongcomplaintshavobeonmadorocontly rospoctint; disorderly scenes thatnro said to havo occurred at tho nest of brothels in Uppor Quoon and Kokoby streets. Thoso scones, it is eaid, aro of nightly occurrence, and besides tho disgraceful exhibitions thomsolvos, it is said tho language used is shocking in tho cxtromo. Tho matter has boon brought under tho notico of tho polico by the respoctablo rosidonts of tho strcot, and tho oonsctpionco was that Inst night tho occupants of tho resorts known as tho White Houso, Brick House, and Padding ton Villa recoivod notico that thoy must quit within ono weok. This stop will loud to tho cleansing of ono of the blackest moral ploguo spots in tho city, but tho effect will virtually bo tho relief of ono soction of tho community at tho exponso of others. The establishments thus brokon up aro protty cortain to bo oponod auoin in other parts of tho city, ond will now doubtless bo scattered over a much wider area.

Ono of Mr T, B, Hannaford's characteris tic optstloH was road at tho mooting of tho Harbour Boar 1 yesterday. In tho courso of tho letter tho writer says : "I pray your honournblo body not to run in tho samo groovo as tho Auckland City Council (a cor poration past praying for), who aro about to astonish all Australasia with gigantic samples of gross stupidity ond dogged ob stinacy (oven sisters I) in making a small watorholotoboforulltimeAiickland'scontral baths, and tho upraisoment of our Provincial Art Gallery and Freo Library on tho most objoctlonablo spot in all tho city (next to Chancery Lane), for no othor earthly reason that I can think of than to oblige ono of tho Councillors, who is dosirous, by thopresenco of those palatial structurns on tho othor sido of an out-of-the-way strcot, to impart an air of dignity to hisrat-infostod stablos."

Moved by tho difficulty of providing suc cessors to tho late second mastor and secre tary at short notico, and also by tho fact that Anniversary Day will fall in tho middlo of next week, tho Governors of tho Collogo and Grammar School havo postponod tho commencement of term from tho 2Gth inst. to Fobruary 2nd. This will deprive our young frionds of a grievanco, inasmuch ns thoy will now commence work not boforo but on tho samo day with tho pupils of tho Girls High School and tho district schools.

Tho Mouldon v. Mouldon divorco action has undergone its second trial beforo an in telligent Jury, and again tho vcrdiot has been given for the petitioner, despite *ho fact that on both occasions Mr Justice Gillies' summing up has been' in tho res pondent's favour. After this unequivocal determination of the disputed facts, it will doubtless be deemed inadvisable to sook another now trial. The next step in the litigation, of course, will bo for tho petitioner's counsel to movo for a decroo for tho dissolution of the marriago, but His Honor has practically discouragod the motion by expressing his opinion that in no event could tlio petitioner got a docroo nisi. This means that unless the Appeal Court grants roliof tho chiof parties to tlio action must perforce maintain towards oach othor matrimonial relations which aro irksome to both. Who shall say after this that our law of divorce is insuscoptiblo of improve ment 1

Tbo Sanitary Inspoctordcclares tho health of tho city to be exceptionally good at tho present timo.

Tho programmo for Mr Ralph Hood's first farewell recital on Monday evening noxt appears elsewhere in this impression, and will bo found to contain an abundant promise of good things. In the compilation of such a programme good judgment and a discriminating taste are both apparent. The morceanx are choice, yet diversified, and v fair proportion of instrumental pieces are intercalated botweon tho vocal selections. Of the former the majority are to be contributed by Mr Hood himself, and the pieces he has chosen for performance areof a kind only attempted by artisteo of the greatest skill and versa tility. They should, therefore, afford amplo opportunity for the display of his brilliant talents as a pianist. We understand that the Choral Hall is to be decorated for the oc casion on an elaborate scale, and that thero is every probability of the concert passingoff with great eclat. The second concert Mill be given on Wednesday noxt, on which oc- J caeion there will be an entire change of pro- J gramme.

The nuisance recently caused by tho 1 landing of a cargo of rotten bananas on tho I Quoen -street wharf appears to have had a I wholesome effect. Tho Harbour Board de cided yostorday that no loose fruit, especially bananas, bo deposited on tho open Wharf, but discharged into drays and takon away, whether for transhipment of otherwise and that no wharfage bo charged on fruit unlit for consumption.

" Cora, or Article 47," was repeated at tho Opera Houso last evening to a fair house. Tho leading character in tho pioco affords scopo for tho display of Mrs Louis's abilities as an actress, and it is hardly necessary to say that tho lady appeared to tho fullost advantage. Sho was twice called beforo tho curtain, Mr St. Lawrence sharing tho honour of tho ro oall on both Occasions, " Not True " will bo presented to-night, and on Thursday 6Vcning Mr E. 1). Haygarth will tako a bcnclit. On that occasion "Our Widow" and "A Bilious Attack" will bo pro duced.

Wo havo rocoived from Mrs Hondry Somervell tho sum of £1 for Mrs Hall.

Mootings of St. Paul's mid St. Mntthow's congregations woro hold last night, but our reports aro crowded out; also our report of Dr. York's locb.ro on "Tho World Wo Livo in."

" An Old Firoinan " oxprosses surprise that among tho donations liberally dis tributed in connection with tho lato firj,. no mention is mado of tho porson w^j'firgt gavo tho alarm. Jlo thinks _!j,'iij"individual might bo ablo to privf^dSwTvoluablo infor mation about Hio 0,-igin of tho firo. " Old I'»>oman '...bonis under a mistake. Tho "lso" .lli-oi'fl of Iho firo havo boon mentioned, "7Thd havo stated to those interested all thoy

know about tlio position of tho tiro when it was lirst scon Tho question of wharf accommodation for tho Freezing Company was again under

tlio consideration of tho Harbour Board yostorday, when it was agreed that tho Company bo informed that thoro was ovory reason t. bolicvo thoro was sulliciont dopth of wator now at tho ond of tho wharf to afford safo borthago for tho largest class of ocoim stcumoi. fronuonting this port, and that instructions had boon given to tako careful soundings, and wlion that had boon dono tho Company would bo informod.

Good progress is being riiudo with tho Culliopo Dock works. Thoro uro now 137 mon and 1!) teams cmployod.

A romnrkablo caso of sheep-stealing is ro ortcd from Hobo, South Australia. Mr

lohort Foster, a .sheep farmer at Lake St. Hair, found on tho solcction of Stephen oll'rcy, at Kocdy Crook Hats, SO of his shoop, horn, killed, mid placed in aheap ready for

mruing, in tho scrub. A trooper reached Jof rcy'. houso about fi o'clock in tho afternoon, md found tho stolon wool on tho premises,

hen arretted, .lell'rey booaino very abusive,

and subsequently wont into a lit, in which ho remained for over two hours, despite all oll'urts to restore him. When ho becanio .•■ensililo ho was placed on a mottrusH in a

Irtty to bo taken to a doctor, but ho died ii: ,0 minutes. Ilu was 05 yoars old.

There aro 70 ministers nnd delogatos in Duiiediti for tho Wesloyan Conforonco.

To tho Editor : Sir, —Tho resolution passed by tho Kogatta Committeo to chargo ton shillings for each admission to tho (lag ship will not,in all probability,add much to

lio (inaticos, or bo likely to make tho Com

mitteo popular. Tho chargo hitherto has been livo shillings, and but fow porsons paid ovon that amount, tho patrons of tho

flagship boing subscribers to tho Rogatta and thoir frionds, It has boon suggested that the failing ships in tho harbour in a position to viow tho Regatta ehould admit visitors at ono shilling por head, tho pro ceeds to bo a contribution to tho Sailors' Rest.—Yoars, &.C., New CItUM.

During the holidays Mr Christophor Bottorill, an enthusiastic wheelman and a mombor of tho Auckland Bicycle Club, rodo on his machine from Auckland to Mursdon l'oiut, a distanco of 100 milos. Tho road was execrable in places, und tho journoy occupied threo days. This is tho first bicyclo journey of any leDgth mado in tho north Auckland district.

The lino weathor is favouring tho con tractor for tho cutting down of Symonds strcot and Kyber Pass, and oxcellent pro gress Is boing mado. About half tho cutting in Symondsstroot has been comploted.

An orror occurrod in Mr Cooper's lottor last night on tho To Aroha goldfiold. Tho sontonco : A truck at To Aroha, of 32 foot, is charged £1 Is 3d a ton, should read "is charged 14 tons."

A presentation of a vory pleasing charac ter was recently made at Onehunga to Mr. Alexander Grant, .M.A., lato head-teacher of tho District School, tho occasion being that gontloman's doparturo to tako up tho Head-mastership of tho Wnlmato High School. The presentation took a form which could not but bo gratifying to ono of literary calling, viz., tho Imperial Dic tionary, in four volumes. Thoy aro in first class binding, und will, no doubt, bo a vory pleasant reminder to Mr Grunt of tho matiy firm frionds ho hus gathered round him during his clovon yoars' rcsidonco in One hunga. Mrs Grant's kindly interest in tho children was not forgotten by tho grateful parents, who presented that lady with a beautiful gold brooch of vory chaste do sign.

Tho reclamation of Shoal Bay, on tho northern sido of tho harbour, opposite Frcoman's Bay, is under tho consideration of tho Harbour Board. It was agreed yos torday, on tho motion of Mr Mays, "That tho Engineer should report to tho Works and Tarilf Committeo on tho cost, and bost moans of carrying out tho work." Mr Mays says tho area of ninoty acres could be reclaimed at a cost of £00.

A soaman named David Tuxworth lud a narrow cscapo from drowning yostorday. Ho fell ovorboard from tho ship Vanduara, and boforo ho reached tho wator struck his head on a pilo, nnd was stunned. Assist ance was speedily at hand, howovor, and ho was rescued from his dangorous posi tion. Later in tho day, a child named Thomas Kobortson foil from tho reclama tion wall botweon tho wharves. Ho dropped into tho water, but succocded in grasping somo woodwork, by which ho kept hitnsolf up until rescued by his frionds, who woro in tho vicinity.

Professor O. E. Hugo gavo tho second of his interesting courso of lectures last even ing in tho Temporanco Hall on " Physiog nomy," tho spoclal subject boing "Facial Wrinklos." 'Thoro was a fair attendance, and tho locturo was both amusing and in structive. The Professor has a happy and mirth-provoking knack of dealing with his subjects, and o»idoncos a studied knowledgo of tho " human face divine." Ho showed that wrinkles dolinoato charac ter, which is also oxprosscd by gait, walk gcnoral bearing, and individual hand writing. His discourse was flavoured ond spicod with titbits of humour, and anec dotes, which impurted a rolishablo liveli ness to tho locturo. Tho immediate sub joct, " Wrinklos," howovor, ran through all, and were delineated ns characteristic for tho virtuos and failings of humanity, formed by bonovolonco, cunning, prido, avarice, poovishnees, and irritability, as tho caso may be. Tho locturo wos wholesome and amusing. Tho noxt locturo of the sorios on " Lips " will be givon on Friday ovoning.

Tho children of St. Mary's Sunday School, Parnoll, hold thoir festival noxt Thursday, woather permitting, at To Papa. For particulars we call tho attention of parents and frlondß to tho advortlsomont.

Worry may be lessoned by Insurance. Firo, Llfo. and Accident Policies issued by Guy Trenchard. U3, Quocn-strcc t,—[Advt ]

Concrete paths and yards ensure porfoct drainago and banish mud, dust, and weeds. Tho cost is small, tho comfort great. Concrete build ings, foundations, rotaininij and garden walla, tanks, otc, am cheap. Kb. matos nnd circulars explaining treatment supplied froo to those lining our limo; refronces i^ivou to concroto workers. On sale, hydraulio and other limes, bricks, sand, cement, pipes, otc. Our trado being large, wo can guaruntoo good frosh lime. All MaliUTungi limes aro not alike.—John Wilson and Co. Olllco and Yard— Customs and Hob son streets.—lAuvt.l

PROPERTY SALE.

Theke was a good attendance at tho sale o Romuora proporty, hold to-day in tho Opera Houso by Mr R. C. Greenwood. Tho fol lowing lots were disposed of:—Remueraf Hoad — Lot 1, £G per foot, Robinson; 2, .01 10s, Jackson ; 0, £5 ss, Ilewin; 7 and 0, £5 103, Fallon ; 10, £5 ss, Rossor; 12, £4 15s, Houghton ; 14, £4 2s Gd, Evans; IS, £4 2s, Evans ; '18, £4 2s Gd, Evans. Westbourne Road—l 9, £4 2s (id, Roid ; 20, ;1.'2 7s tid, Fallon; 21, £2 7s Od, Fallon ; 22, £2 2s 6d, Mahon ; 23, £2 2s Gd, Mahon. Crescent—l 7, £2 ss, Anderson; 16, £2 2s Gd, Burton ; 13, £2 2s;6d, Burton ; 11, £2 12s Gd, W. Rosser ;5, £2 12s 6d, He win. Port land Eoiid—3, £3 Ss, Pooley; 4, £3 10b, Kidd; 33, £2 15s, Ware ; 36, £2 15s ; 37, £2, Malcolmson : 40, £2 10s, Evans ; 41, £210s, Evans; 42, £2 7s Gd, Evans ; 46, £1 16s, Clarke. Eastbourne Road—39, £1 3s, Mc- Cormick ; 38. £1, Malcolmson ; 35, £17s Gd; 34, £1 7s 6d, Ware ; 31, £1 7s 6d, Cover ; 30, £1 15«, Cover; 29, £2 ss, Evans; 50, £2, Rae. Lot 54, with lake, was purchased by Mi- Anderson, as agont, for £2,250. Mr Ander son subsequently purchased 52 and 53, nearly 2 acres, for #250.

WRECK OF THE ANNABEL.

(Before F. G. Seth Smith, Esq., R.M., and Captain Frator, Nautical Assossor.)

This inquiry was resumed at noon,

Mr Williamson (Crown Solicitor) ap peared for Mr Hill, Collector of Customs.

Mr Alexander appoarod to watch tho caso for Captain McDonald, Mr Williamson said he had hoped to havo boon ablo to placo important evidenco boforo tho Court, but the Kaipara pilot and anothor witness woro notable to bo present, as tho telegrams did not roach thorn until yesterday, thoy (tho witnesses) boing absent from tho district on business. Ho would therefore oxamine the mate ond anothor witnoss, and ask for a further ro niand.

Thomas Willinms doposod that ho was inatoof the Annabel on tho 2nd inst., when sho was lost. Ho was on dock whon sho crossed tho bar, preparing to anchor the vossol, if nocossary. After anchors and chains woro ready, ho was stationod on tho port-sido with glassos to watch tho somiphoro. Ho did so, but could not sco tho signnl^-^j^ the flagstaff, but not tho arg^ t))0 back . ground was dark. Wtfrno t •„ tho rigging. 1 o was novor tJl&ril>efore. Examined tlio chart, and > tlAd mado ollt tho hill whaka hurarrv^-' jj 0 (.gyij not accurately define .V/id channel. Saw broken wator ahead of tho starboard bonm. Roportcd it to tho captain, who was on tho poop. Was on tho poop whon sho struck. The captain was looking windward. 110 had no idea that sho was going into dongor. After tho vessel struck ho saw somo timbor Hooting alongside. Could not say if it was part of tho vossol. Tho head was pointing North West, and sho was full on tho loewnrd sido, whilo Boas woro breaking ovor hor. Ho could not speak as to timo. Lost his certificate and ovorything olso ho had on board. All tho hands, nino soamon and tho cook, woro on deck. He was directed to watch tlio flagstaff. To the Bonch : Had somo conversation with tho master about tho beacons in tho channol, and had road the sailing diroctions himsolf. Ho bolioved that bofore tho bar was crossed tho master romarkod that tho lighthouse and beacon should bo " in ono," but ho was not suro by what marks thoy sailed.

George Greon deposod that he was an ablo seaman on tho brig Annaboll. Ho took tho whcol about 0 p.m., when thoy woro standing for tho Kaipara Bar, on January 2nd. Tho captain was then on the poop. I was not directed to steer any courso, and wus stcoring by tho wind, oloso-haulcd. Subsequently the captain told mo to kcop hor away halfo-point— about oast, half south. Later on ho altered tho courso two or throe times, keoping tho vossol away each timo. Evontually wo steered north-oast by east, half cast. Tho captain wont to the foro-topsail yard, and told mo te watch him for instructions. Could not sco any landmarks then. After that tbo captain came on to tho poop and gavo mo directions by moving his hands, Whon tho vessol struck shewashead ing north-east, half north. Two or threo minutes beforo wo struck I heard the mate report to tho captain that <to wore approach ing broken wator. The captain said it was tho "thiol." Heard the captain call "a hand at tho load," after wo had gone through tho broken wator and about a minute beforo tho vessol struck. Beioro sho struck tho captain told mo to put the helm hard up. Immediately afterwards the brig struck, and tho vossol would not steer at all.

William Williams doposed he was an able sooman on tlio Annaboll. Kemombored coming into tho Kaipara Heads on January 2nd, Was engaged turning tho sails, etc., but was nob looking out. Did not see any body heavo tho lead till tin captain gavo thoordor " a hand at the lead," when I took it, got 2 fathoms, and called out at once to tho captain who was on the poop. At tlio same timo tho vessel struck. I do not know if any ordor was given to alter tho course. Tho brig passod over one bank, struck again half-a-mlnute later, and thon stuck fast.

Tho Court then adjourned till Friday at 11 o.m. Evidence remains to bo given by Captain Smith, Harbour-master of Kaipara, ana by Captain John McKunzfe. foraorly Harbour-masterthero.

TABLE TALK.

Bank holiday on 29th inst. Tho poll for a harbour at Nopior re sulted in a tremendous majority in favour of tho 10an—1,387 against 50.

"Not Truo " at the Opera Houso to night. Booth's temperanco mission starts to morrow.

Thoro aro about a million nativos in Now Guinea.

Wosleyan Conforonco opons at Dunodin to-night. Mora stoats and weasels havo arrirod in tho colony. Now Zealand is ofFored Fiji Instead of Samoa.

Taianaki Ironeand Company is Bhowing signs of resuscitation. No offer mado for the wreok of tho steamer Star of tho South at Groymouth. A chair of Natural Philosophy is to be founded in Otago Univorsity. Correspondence is still going on between tho Now Zealand ond Imperial Govern ments on tho subject of annexation in the South Seas.

Wahanui and Ngatireukawa nativo* havo hold a meeting to discuss railway matters, and rosolvod not to sell any land to Govorn mont until thoir lands have beon put through tho Court. Hon. Mr Buckley will shortly visit tho charitable Institutions at Napier, Wanganui, and Now Plymouth. Tho United Methodist meetings opened at Christchurch yesterday, when Roy. 0. Porrey, of Napier, was elected chairman. Wellington Gas Company paid an In terim dividend of 0 por cent. July last, and n dividend of 7J por cent. Is now ro commondod. £1,500 will bo written off the plant account, and £1,000 added to tho reserve fund.

Wahonulis preparing to foastMr Ballance at Otohongn. A boy named Hoberi Pride has boen killed near Kumara by the capsizing of a drnylond of wool. English strawberrios, brought on Is in tho f rccr.lng chambers, wore one of tho delicacies at tho lunch on board the Arawa.

Joseph Donsoll, n labourer, took a food oi tutu berrlos tho other day at Christchurch, and is now in tho Hospital dangerously ill.

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Boforo H. G. Both Smith, Kaq., R.M.

Dkunk.—Four porsons woro punished for this oircnco.—Honry McCormlck, convalescent, sa. costs, and maintonnnco. Chaugh ov WitvuL Murder. — William Shoohan was again brought up on a charge wilful ninrdor. vie., that ho did. on or about th° 27th Ootobor, 1377, at Oostletownrooho. in th° County of Cork, Ireland, kill and murder his mother, brotnor, and sister.—Superintendent Thomson said ho must nsk for anothor remand in this caso. Ho might say that ho had reoelvod a tologram from UoL Kondor informing him that a warrant was Issued by tho Imperial au thorities for tho arrest of tflioohao ; also that an oflloer who know the aooueed was on his way to tho colony by tho Blmutaka. and that ho would, no doubt, be hero shortly,—Mr Napier having roneated hla objections to a remand, Hla Wor ship complied with Superintendent Thomson, and remandod the csbo tor another week. Assault.—.Tohn Caffroy woe charged under tho Pollco GflPonoes Act with using obecono language and with assaulting Constablos Mat thew O'Brlon and Thomas Ward on tho 20Ui inst.—Sergeant Pratt said this was a most de liberate assault, and although prisoner hod pleadod guilty, ho wished His Worship to hoar ovidence.—Matthew O'Brlon dopoßcd that pris oner and anothor porson wero noar tho Groy hound, when prisoner scorned inclinodforarow. Ho whs making uso ot very offensivo langu age and whon witness spoke to him ho struck him a violont blow in tho face. It was obotit. U o'clock at night.—Constublo Ward wont to tho assistance of hie brother oflloer, and received two heavy blows from prisonor. — Constable Hanson was similarly treated.—Sentence, three months' imprisonment with hard labour. (Joorge Jouos wos charged with inciting John CaflVoy to strike t'onßtnblo O'Brien. Prisoner pleaded guilty. — Ono month's imprisonment with hard labour. Unattended.— Borjamin Ramsbottom was fined 5s and costs for leaving his horae and cart unattended in a public street, Neolectkd Children. — Arthur Dewson ottered 2s 6d per woek towards the support of his son committed to the Industrial School.— Ai-coptod. and ordor made for that amount.— Michael Breon was oharged with failing to sup port his four children.—Defendant Baidhocould not stop in his own house because hla two boys were alwajs beating him. Ho would contri bute it they woro put into the Training School. —Mrs Broon said if It were not for tho in terference of her big sons, she would have b 'en murdered long ago. He drank all his earn ings, and left her and tho children to live on air. — Hafnndnnt was sworn, and deposed that his wifo had beon drunk for nine months. She had tried to kill him soveral times.—Remanded until Saturday for further evidence.—Walter Bousfield, neglecting his wife and two children. —Defondaut said his wife was mother-sick, and would not stay away from her. He begged her to como back, but she would not loavo her mother. He had be°n giving her os a week, and if she would not come home, he would ad vance half-a-crown.— Adjourned until the 6th Threatening to Kill.—JamesAndrews was called, but did not appear, on a summons charging him with threatening his wife, Jane Mary Andrews, on the 9th inst—Complainant said hor husband was awaro of the proceedings. Sho was then sworn, and deposod that her husband was continually|drunk. He threatened to do her personal violence, and slid he knew exactly where to strike the fatal blow, and she might, prepare. He refused to obey thesummons. —Kemandod until Monday for the appearance of Andrews or a worrant to issue.

CABLEGRAMS.

(by cable—copyright),

Tho Beow BlocU in Italy.

Bkknk, January 20.—Moiint Cenis rail way lino is blockod by snow, and tho triffic is suspended. Tho Troops at Soualcim. Caibo, January 20.—Tho troops now at and being despatched to Souakim aro to be omployod opening a road between that placo and Borbor. Tho French anil Africa. An agreoment has been concluded between tho French Government and tho Inter national Association with regard to tho : rights of tho latter in Wost Africa. Egyptian Finances. London, January 20.—1 n connection with tho proposals uf tho French Govern ment for the settlement of Egyptian linance, it is believed that a Coriimission of Inquiry will bo appointed to considor^gnly* tho necessary monotnry rcctjjnriongf-; Sorlous lUjncss,flf*th C Gorman Smporor. —*3Wt£iN-, January I!).—Tho Emperor William is seriously indisposed, and con fined to bod. His Majesty's condition is causing great uneasiness at Court. Italian Claims in tho Rod Soa. Cairo, January 19.—Tho Italian Govern ment, which recently decided to garrison its station at Assat, is now endeavouring to obtain increased interest in tho Red Sea, and has domanded from Egypt the cession to tho Italian Crown of the island and port of Massowah, and has received the support of Earl Granvillo in tho matter. The Egyptinn Government, hovvovcr, has refused to consider tho domand, as being contrary to tho Ottoman firman, undor which tho Egyptian Constitution was established. Bank Dividend. London, January 19.—The English, Scottish, and Australian Chartorcd Bank has doclarcd a dividend for tho past half year at tho rato of 10 por cent, per annum, and carries forward and places to tho reservo £20,000.

Tho Proposod Council of Agonts-Gonoral.

Lord Blachford coneido s Earl Groy's sug gostion that all matters pertaining to an notation should be referred to a council oi tho Agents-Genot-al is unworkublo.

England's Colonial Polioy.

Sir Stafford Northcote states that the Government havo sacrificed tho colonies to the unreasonable demands of foreigners.

Lord Loftus's Doparturo.

Svdnky, this day.—lt is reported that Lord Augustus Loftus will leavo for Eng land in July or August. Thoro has beon gonoral rain throughout tho colony during tho past 24 hours.

Mkldooknk, this day.—Mojor-Goneral Scratchloy bus proceeded to Sydnoy.

Conforonco of Premiere Abandoned,

Tho proposed Conforonco of Premiers on iho annexation question has beon aban doned, owing to tho difficulty of fixing a date for tho mooting.

Soutli Australian Opinion of Annexation

Adelaide, this day.—At a largoly at tended public mooting, hold last evening, resolutions woro passed supporting tho action of Victoria in regard to Pacific an notation, and deprecating the action of tho Imperial Government thereon.

ARRIVAL OF MR R. T. BOOTH.

Mr R. T. Booth, whoso name has for years past beon a household word amongst English and American sympathisers with the temperance movement, was a pogisengcr from Sydnoy to Auckland by tho s.s. Kinga rooma yesterday. Though still a compara tively young man, by thopowor of his oratory and tho wondorful success of his work, ho has gained a namo as a temperance reformer only second to that of tho mighty Gough. Concerning Gough and Booth there ore said to bo somo points of resemblance. Tho style of oratory is similar, and both men hod suffered sovoroly irom tho effects of in temperance. Jlr Booth was met on his ar rival by a deputation consisting of Mr Josoph Newman, J.P., J. Bramo, A. Cox (Secretary to tho Bluo Kibbon Army), J. Milne, J. T. Garlick, and the Roy. W. E. Rico, who cordially wcicomed him to the shores of Now Zealand. For somo months past Mr Booth has boon suffering from the olTects of ovorwork, and for the last threo months ho has beon recruiting his health by a rotiremont from activo work. During his stay in Auckland he will resido with Dr. A. Osborne Knighf, Ponsonby Road. Tho mission, which will last fourteen days will commenco to inorrowevening at tho Theatre Royal, at 7.30, but this evening Mr Booth will meet temperanco workers and sympathisers at the Young Men's Christian Association Rooms, Albert-street, nt 8 o'clock. Mr Booth's missions in America, England, and Australia have been instru mental in rescuing many from the degrada tion of drunkenness, and wo trust that in this fair land his work will bo attended by similarly successful results.

SUPREME COURT.-DIVORCE.

THE MOULBEN DIVORCE ACTION.

Verdict for the Petitioner.

(Beforo His Honor Mr Justlco Gillies.)

The trial of tho action for divorce brought by William Henry Mouldon against liis wifo, Graco Mouldon (tide Grnco Maehattie) and Edward Corbett and James Young, co-respondents, was concluded lost night. Tho Jury woro absont for threo hours without agreeing, and His Honor then Informed them that a throe-fourths verdict would bo takon.

In answer te tho Registrar's formal ques tions, the foreman then stated that by a majority of threo-fourths the jury had found Grace Mouldon guilty of adultery both with Timothy Michaol Coibett end James Young. His Honor thanked tho jury for tho atten tion which thoy had given to tho caso. He sympathised with thorn in tho difficulties thoy had in dociding it. Tho jury woro thon discharged. Mr Cooper mado application for tho allowance of tho wifo's cost*.'

Mr Hoskoth asked that tho application might stand ovor until tho motion for decree was dotormincd.

His Honor said tho costs must be applied for and ordered at tho timo of hoaring. It had boon a eurprioo te him that the case had boon fought over again as it had boon, bocauso ho intimated at tho last hearing that in no ovont could tho potitionor got v decree

Mr Hesketh romnrkod that His Honor spoke positively, but that ho on his part must declare with equally positivonoss that he novor hoard such a statement from him until now.

After somo further remarks His Honor said hie docision was on tho ground of petitioner's conduct after respondent left him in ISSO, and wont to her father's houso. He novcr had any doubt on the subject of tho docreo. Ho stated on the last occasion that if tho verdict were against the wifo a second timo sho must tako the consoquonces. Although he did not express himself so plainly as now, and did not wish to prejudge a new trial, his opinion was that in no event could petitioner get a decree nisi; he might secure a verdict and obtain costs against the co-respondents, but anything else ho could not hope for. By consont tho quostion of tho wifo's costs was then ordored to stand over until tho motion for docroo had been argued, Mr Hoskoth undertaking 'to mako this motion on tho first opportunity.

The Court adjourned until ton o'clocli to-morrow morning.

CONFEDERATION OF FIJI AND NEW ZEALAND.

(BY TELEGRAM.—OWN COKREsrONDENT.)

Wellington, this day. It is rumoured in political circles here that the Imperial Government is willing, if Now Zoaland thinks that its own affairs do not afford sufficient scope for its energies, to allow it to take charge of and administer tho affairsofFiji. The costof government in that colony is understood to impose considerable strain on the Imperial purse, and Lord Derby has indicated that he would bo quite willing to transfer this to the New Zealand Treasury, and compensate this colony for tho loss of Samoa by giving it Fiji.

The annual treat in connection with the Holy Trinity Sunday School. Devonoor . will b 9 held tomorrow, wheu tho n., 3 . Vieioria will tave TlevoDpott at 9.30 for the mUnd of

Gilberts new and popular comedy, Engaged," will bo performed on the oveniii_ of Thursday., February 12. in St. Matthew's X™?1" IftL m' "' A of lh(! S(:,lno1 Renovation Dun I. Ihe ca;-t comprises those ladies aud Kentlemen ot llio parish who havo played on former occasions, delighting largo audio, ces.

The members of the Victoria Rifles are S?™ Ed by advertisement to attend at the Drill Shed on Thursday next.

UNDER THE LASH.

A Young Man Korsowh lp pod by an Irate Fomnlo.

Eveii sinco tho days of Lola Montcz, and perhaps prior to tho advent ot that strong minded fotnalo on this mundane Bphero, it has boon tho practice of women of a certain class, whon maligned or othorwiso injured by persons of tho opposito sex, to wipe out tho insult by an application of tho lash to tho back of the trnduccr. Mrs Fredericks, tho wife of a nigger minstrel woll known in this city, disturbed tho staid respectability that usually rules supreme at tho Clarendon Hotel, Quoon-stroct, on Monday night last by severely horsewhipping a young man natnod Edward I'rontieo, who, she believed, rightly or wrongly, hud circulated scandalous rewtts" concerning ber, olio of them.ijcinr.- that she was about to ...-feMisir a houso of ill-fame. | Mrs Fredericks has been residing at tho Claren don Hotel, having come to Auckland on a visit, and Prentice has been in tho habit of dining ut the samo hostelry. Tholady, hearing that these reports were being indus triously circulated, and being informed that Prentice was one of her taiducors, deter mined upon inflicting summary punishment on him, acting, wo understand, on the advice of some theatrical friends who were staying in tho samo hotol, and who, at the timo of the assault, were present to sco the fun. On Monday ovening, shortly after tho doors of the Clarendon had been closed, tho lady camo into the pas sago leading to tho privato door, and observing i'rentico FCnted on a table, observed to a bystander, "Do you see that thing sitting on the table? _ I on going to horsewhip him tonight" Sho thon invited the young man into a privato room. Ho complied, quite unconscious of tho treat that was in store for him, when sho with considerable alacrity produced a silver mounted lady's horsewhip, which she hud kept concealed in the folds of her dress, and proceeded to castigate him over the head and shoulders. Prentice offered no resist ance, though with his hands ho succeeded in warding oil'many of tho blows aimed at his face. The Hogging was continued for upwards of a minute, during which timo Prentice strongly denied that bo had circulated tho scandal. Mrs Fredericks, somewhat out of breath, and perhaps mollified at the young man's passive domeanour.declared a truce, and the dogger and tho flogged "had it out" verbally, the result of tli6 convention boing that the lady was half induced to belicvo that she had acted somewhat hastily. Prentice is considerably marked about the shoulders, and thero are a few slight bruises on his face. Tho flogging wns conducted so quiotly that persons seated in an adjoining room, though they heard tho "swish" of the whip, had no idea of the dramatic incident proceeding on the other sido of the partition.

WAIKATO NATIVES AND THE TRUNK RAILWAY.

(BY TELEORAI'II. —OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Wellington, this day. As I informed you several days ago, the Nativo Minister's intended visit to the Wai kato is to consult with Wahanui, Taonui, and Rowi in connoction with railway mat tors. Furthor, I may say it is in fulfilment of a pledge given by his predecessor, Mr Bryco, when thoy gavo their consent to preliminary surveys being made of the railway line. This was to the effect that tho Government would not do anything jnore than make the surveys with out further consultation with them. The present Government feel that thi* promise is binding on- them, and that if they disre garded it tbo Ngatimaniapoto chiefs wouiu havo cause to fool aggrieved, and might possibly oven obstruct tho progress of the work, Mr Ballanco is accordingly going to sco them in order to discuss the subject fully with them, and obtain thoir assent to tho actual commencement of the work of construction, and, if possible, socure their activo aid in pushing tho work on. Wo difficulty is anticipated in obtaining their assent, as thoy have already expressed thoniselvcs generally favourablo to the making of the railway.

THE COLLAPSE OF A TUNNEL.

Throe Iffon KlUed.

(by telegraph—muss association.)

Wellington, this day. In connection with tho accidont which occurred in tho tunnel at Pukorau on Mon day afternoon, nows reached town last night that tho Austrian, Panzadetti, was rescued at half-past one p.m. Ho was in a very weak condition, but sensible. Tho nature of his injuries are unknown. The trunk of ono of tho other men was got out, but tho legs were still unearthed. Nothing is yet known respecting the fato of the third man, but it is almost certain that he is dead. Later. Further news states that the Austrian, who was token out alivo, has succumbed.

SPORTING NEWS.

Dunedin Cup Bottlng,

(I!Y TELEGRAM—OWN CORRESPONDENT.) Dunedin, this day. The following aro tho latest quotations for tho Cup:— 100 to 20 against Vanguard 100 to 15 - Wapiti 100 to 11 — Lady Emma 100 to 10 — Captain Wobstor and July 100 to 8 — Clo.b, Sou'-weeter, Nel son, Trenton, Fusilier, and Liverpool 100 to 7 — Tasman and Oudcls 100 to li — Salvage, Johnny Faulk ner, and Talaroa. The Hon. James Whito, the well-known Sydnoy Bportsman, intandu visiting thia colony.

NAVAL STATION FOR THE SOUTH PACIFIC.

Tim fact that Auckland's claims had been overlooked in the soloction of pormanent rendezvous for the British ships of war on tho Australian station was brought up at the meeting of tho Harbour Board yester day by tho Chairman. He said that on two previous occasions reports wero made by thia board to tho Lords of the Admiralty, but circumstances wero not so favourable l then as now, and hebelievedareportmightafc the present time bo made with good results. Ho pointed out tho splendid dock accommo dation which would soon bo capable of affording duo attention to our valuable coal deposits, and after quoting the remarks of His Excollency the Governor on the ad vantages of Auckland as a centre for naval defence, moved as follows-.—" That this Board forward to tho Lords of the Admiralty an expression of regret that New Zealand has been omitted from tho lift of those places whero it is intended to provide per manent stations or rendezvous for the vessels of Her Majesty's navy in the South Pacific. The Board further makes re presentations as to tho special suitability of the port of Auckland as a naval station, and that full information regarding docking and coaling facilities bo forwarded to 3 ethor with the opinion of His Excel lency Sir W. Druinmond Jorvois, as lately given m an official report upon harbour defences. That the Lords of the Admiralty bo informed that such land having doop water frontage as may bo required will be provided, and that no largo expenditure will bo necessary to rondor this harbour convenient and avnilablo for the vossols of tho Imporial navy in these seas." Mr Mays seconded tho motion, which was agreed to

THE WARING TAYLOR FRAUDS.

Verdict of "GuJlty."

Wellington, this day. The Waring Taylor case was concluded yesterday afternoon, when the jury, after three-quarters of an hour's deliberation found the prisoner guilty on all the counts exceptfour, on which Hi 3 Honor had directed them to acquit. On the application of tho prisoner's counsel, sentence wa- postponed until the criminal sessions of the Supreme Court, in July next, in order to allow cer tain points which have been reserved to be argued in the Appeal Court. Bail was accepted ; himself in £2,000 and two sure ties of £1,000 each. The Hon C 1 Phamzyn and Mr Andrew Young became bondsmen. The Court then adjourned until Friday morning, and in the meantime tho prosecuting counsel will communicate with the Attorney-General as to whether they Tayfor tl>e other charges against

SIR JULIUS VOGEL AT WAIWERA.

A TALK WITH THE VBXA__^X.

Sin Julius Vooel, under the be A :-^P influonccsof tho bracing climateandu?l! ing watorsof Waiwora, is rapidly in ll ing in health; indeed, ho is now hotter than he has been for -JUI Though apparently freed from the c|PB State, his time is far from idle Stffl littlo villago at tho Hot Springshaj 1 IU noncc.becn convorted into the head-r n 1 ■ of political action for the colony .*u|«"H not impossiblo that movements imnw ■ amongst tho willows and vines of"W-j|SS may yet havo a potent effect on thefiJS 8 of tho colony and of the hemisipl Countless telegrams from Bay of M»SS« the Hluff.come pouring i" every day IB between intervals in bathing in theßak.fi the Treasurer linds timo to flash hiersrf^fi requests, and instructions to UndeSjSffl tarics, oliice-seekers, The press of work on the tolegraphif'i* indeed, has necessitated the tetnSfi stationing of an additional tefi3l| operator ut tho Springs. The »3| during tho Treasurer's stay ha^B* delightful, and ho is bo charmed wit_ i2 M manifold attractions of the delightfal J?!! and has experienced so much benefit |S|| tho uso of the waters,that ho has deternS I to prolong his viiit for several weeks Treasurer still adheres to his mech-iSS chair, which has been his constant frtSfc and has given him a loyal and consffill support ovor since his arrival in thet»k?S Ho bathes three times a day, being caSlf to the baths by his attendants. JUlftß have como in contact with Sir JumSII matter what their political ron .1?H como under tho spoil of his m2ffl A more charming conversationalistitiSg be difficult to meet with, and, to3l common colloquialism, ho " talks te||| book." He is very accessible, anda'iJH with tho Treasurer is certainly notthj"Sß of the present attractions of the place.^B The other day, in my capacity of "pji leged prowler," (the worthy Chairajy the Waitcmata County Council is iml siblo for this not altogether complin^ description of the genus journalßM dropped in on Sir Julius, and had'i t«» littlo chat with Jpim on matters on |S at present men s minds aro set. 3Jjj previously met him at Wellington,':jjj, cordial handshake showed that hoh»4id forgotten me. Tlio Samoan Business. ' The conversation first turned onanM_i that appeared recently in one of the'ijl land papers, purporting to give a cpiaifi and circumstantial liistory of the Caijy meetings that have been held respoctitiglj annexation question, together wi(.|s| of cablegrams supposed to have pasts'i>f. tween Lord Derby and tho Colonial GomifS mont. Tho account was apparently to tn. f, • ful that it was universally believed to WM emanated from an official source. SirS mentioned that this account was untreitj and unofficial, and suggested the probata of someone having hoaxed the paper ii question. The matterof annexation Mm thus been introduced, it was not difl&ln ask what was the real nature of thecabV grams " that had passed respecting theW posed annexation of Samoa," Siiyiß replied that the time had notyet, iilji for these despatches to be published. =i was quite an error to suppose tlupi Government had purposed Bending||i Hinemoa to Samoa for the pnipoi^ annexing the islands. Her mission ti merely to investigate the situation,,Si action being taken on the strength of t. petition sent by the King to the Gorid ment. Reporter : Was there any Intentfciri also making inquiries respecting so guano islands? .': m Sir Julius : Mr J. C. Firth, of At.U| suggested that Government should ujbS| adjacent guano islands; but, sofar.. ]ll could learn, there wore no islands of km description unannexed. '-" Reporter : Do you anticipate th al ajß thing will result frein the recent acti. iffl tho New Zealand Government withitqal to thcso islands ? fififl Sir Julius : It has forced the matte i|j| the English Government, and thßj i: a§| bound to give it consideration. kmSfc:! Reporter: What direction wffl;4ffl action probably take 1 M Sir Julius: That I cannot tell you.uaH English Government does not tale ill colonies into its confidence, and bents 'am awkward position in which the colonl. j|| placed. It has boen a perpetual rtn^lS to ascertain tho facts. iff The conversation thon drifted toigfl Lord Derby's action regarding thesuwigl tion of Now Guinea, Sir Julius .raSBmB that Germany's defence of its .anntjufflj of a portion of Now Guinea mightMM England had taken what she wa^d,r^J how could she object to GermanytaMnß was left . She could not play'the ram the manger. Lord Derby had dciii .icrag it would be an unfriendly aot «BH Powor to annex New Guinea. Sir Mm here paused and remarked with'ssiW " How far he will eat his words ormalntfW them I do not know, but Germam'Jß reply, ' You had the opportunity ttMl taking all you wanted.' " • || ? Roportor: What are your viewspttfllH regarding annexation ? j.? j Sir Julius : Personally, I attaok «#i importance to the commercial thief .j the political aspect of the ' .Jrcwijj The flag will follow the tradfMM session tho House threw outourbi«B| ing with the South Sea bland tn^Jfli greater opposition to the measure njH from Auckland. This was most seifaHj At present the trade between Sydwlflfi tho Islands much exceeds ours, though iijp Shysical conditions favour New .J^SHi [ad that Company been formed, pnWK: tho Gorman interests would have beer,{J*?;| to havo made New Zealand the <?9H of action. There is no true »M position on the part of QermUjJfllr colonlso. I roally believe they "M^ml desire a stable government under 1J(»ffl they may carry on business op?rafeffl| don't think they intend to establish w'*|jl It has boen stated in tho nom^sftt&fflm there is no reason for questionine; %jfflH tho Germans have recognised th= ?'!■» government aa a stable government W ;; making treaties with it. Sir Julius Vogel was then asked hll«l ion respecting tho action of the jfojpyaß vornment concerning New Guinea, i»J; i replied that tho Australasian GoWttjOTgffi being willing to guarantee the>mf|ffi annexation, thero was no WMOn Jmffl* British Government shouldh»vflW^B;? Publio Address In Auckland. J • Reporter: Is it true that you PB^J||. ' dressing a public meeting -•"■ .tJjjjflH.: bofore you return to the South? Ji^HH" Sir Julius : Some persons bavestig^ that I should do so. If there is "gsfj| desire of that kind, and lam well;«TO| I will probably address a public meete* .mm North Island Railway. J The matter of the North IslanlffSKJ line of railway was then touched "^j- Juliuß romarking that the "???SuSB hoped to bo in a position to for tho first contracts next mentn.t<'« , work would proceed from three powjra Te Awamutu, Marton, and M#lfflß' mediato point. The remark DMfjjgm}; that the reporter bolieved that .Saß feelin. respecting the Gover"B^2sfi existed in Auckland, PirJuliaiMl||[|; what dryly that it was curious.lw Auckland people had over ■ dtaWKM^ Government who had done what <Wf|W only promised to do—made a start W -,■ New Zoaland Credit In Itf^fjflW:' Tho matter of tho finances of f|||M, having been introduced, Sir ■?", !&sBBB mentioned a fact which is perfectly MM is anothorevidonco of the reputaWlJ^B , by the colony in tho Loudon a°fflßm»i A largo quantity of scrip-*»°%tjj9H ! million pounds worth—remained intO|Bj|«| under tho pledge that it !"OH placed until after the floating °/ig|U| j million loan. Noarly nil of th %Wm^... successfully placed during the r-M day^, viz., since tbo floating of W S|W After somo remarks by Sir JaUS|H,3 satisfactory floating of the loa ''SmgU torosting half-hour's chat with W>* |.i . Treasurer wan brought to a close. K•■

MINING NEWS.

(by telegraph.—own cobbespi

TnA B -«.'i*ja Saxon. -Sinking operations ffß".3j|| tho bottom of tho shaft on Mo? d*J§H cellent country, interlaced t*th £ "1 is being passed through. , .. jjaiß Bright S.MILE.-The crurbing-^M for a fairly satisfactory return, liuii-hed to-morrow (Thursday 1 Jri*. CammuA.-Tbe specimens °^<jMffi torday from tho intermediate "^fflg from i he vein which has juß* the han K ing-wall of the lode- appoars likely to junction ere 10°Ljj»l mineralised vein that has atPrj!ut«^ most gold. The probability » thing rich will be found should W unite. '



pONSONBY VINEYARD. Having Purchasod from Mr Linabury this Seasons Oop of Hot Houso Grapes, now in splendid condition. Tho samo will bo sold Wholesale and Retail, delivored, at the Cotfoe Palace, Quccn-stroet, W. D. DALLEN, Confectioner. T>OTATOES. POTATOES. PRIME LOCAL-GROWN HOBART, In quantities to suit. NORTH N.Z FARMERS' CO-OPERATIVE ASSOCIATION (Limited). /-JOSPEL TEMPERANCE MISSION. THE NIGHT BEFORE THE BATTLE. MR. R. T. BOOTH Has ARRIVED, and will bo glad to meet all Ministers and Workers willing to assist in the Great Temperance Campaign THIS (Wednes day) EVENING, at eight o'olook, In the Young Men's Christian Association Rooms. Wellesley streat. — T7IX S.S. ARAWA, FROM LONDON. JUST LANDED, AND FOR SALE- Barbary Almonds Valencia ditto (for Confectioners' use) 100 bags best Flno Salt Casaa Superfine ditto, in paper wraps Now Pickloa, best quality, junta National aud Belmont Candles. FRB DX. WH lIEHEAD, 93,-r



PURSUANT to tho torma of "Tho Banks and Bankers Act, 1880," and '"Kho Banks and Bankers Amendmont Act, 1882," THURSDAY, tho twenty-ninth day of January instant, is heroby appointed a SPECIAL BANK HOLIDAY at the ofßces of the undormontioned Banks in tho PROVINCIAL DISTRICT OF AUCKLAND. For tho Union Bank of Australia (Limited), JOSH. PALMKR, Chief Officer for N.Z. For tho Bank of Australasia, E. W. MORRAH. Inspector. For the Bank of New South Wales, W. G. RHIND, Inspeotor. For tho National Bank of New Zealand (Limited), W. DYMOCK, Inspector. For tho Colonial Bank of Now Zealand, HENRY MACKENZIE, Acting General Manager. For tho Bank of Now Zealand. D. L. MURDOCH. Gonoral Managor. Auoklnnd, January 20,1SSJ.



m O MEET THE TIMES. In consoquonoo of bo many Drapers Solllng-off at Cost Prico and Undor, and not wishing to be Undersold, and having Bought a Ijirgo Lot of CXioap Job Linos, I will givo my Customora porno Great Bargains, which Inspection will fully bear out:— Splendid Stock White Calioo, from 2a lid doz 1.000 yds Good Grey Cnlieo, 2d, worth 3d, or is lid doz .TOO yds Strong Wido Flannel, 10' d, worth Is 3d Strong Wldo Ifluo Scrgo, 7'd yd Balance Summer Stook of Prints, to cloar at Cost Prico 1,000 yds Plain and Printod Satccna, nko pat terns, at Cost 80 Cloth Tnbleoovers, printed and onibroldored, to clear; 20 '/. discount oil" marked prico A Largo Stock of Dross Goods, in all Btmdos and materials, vory much reduced in prico, from 2-Jd yd 330 Pairs Blankets, vory much reduced, to cloar Largo Stock of Umbrellas fnom Is 6d, Children's from Is Strong Oatmoal Cloth, 5Jd yd 1,500 yds Ginghams, nice patterns, from 4"d, worth 8d Rnsh Hats. 2Jd; Largo Lot Children's Thread Glovos from 3d pair 10,000 doz Buttons, roducod to 13d doz. A Great Bargain 350 dOK Glrla'and Women's Hosiery from 6d pair, worth doublo 51 Mon'si Strong Tweed Coats, 0a 0d ; do Trou sore. -la lid pair Men's Tweed Trousors ond Vests, 7s lid; 50 Men's Strong Tweed Suite. 10s 6d Boys Rnickor Suits from la 6a; Boys' Tweed Suits, long trousers, 15s Meo's Cotton Shirts from Is; do White Shirts, 3b 3d Men's Strong Flannnl Shirts nnd Drawers, 2s 3d k Bftys' Ff-lt Hats. Is (id : Men's do, 2s 1 r Lao,-o Lot of Boys' Straw Hots, to dear ' ftiall-price) '-~ IroniDd LarKo lot of Remnants, markc" ulcai. .:°"Sd vory low, to WILLIAM R. »"Si' JUNCfTION DRAPIjV* ''BRIDGMAN, 288, UPPER- iIRY WAREHOUSE, - y!*UUEEN-STREET. jST° ~*&! TO THE PUBLIC.



I MS. J. 3 Nov^vJoCarroU's is tho only Ketablishmont in Lir *>■ Zealand which makes a speciality ot ' '-yfons, Damasks, Towels, Diapers, Huckabacks. tfcfaiMlkcrchiofs, &c, &c in nowost designs and 'host patterns, imported by him direct from tho Irish Manufacturers. Tho Publio would do woll lo inspect his goods, which aro offered ut tho lowest possiblo pricoe—J. MoCarroll, 78, ! Victoria-etreot, four doors above Albert-stseot. j *T\R. HAINES, who loaves for England ;_l _f on the 20th inst, requests that all Claims |l at tainat him ho furnished, and that all amounts [1 ov ring be paid on or beforo tho above date. ] 1 1\IW"R B. HOMBERG, Professor of M-o*ic, ;■ JUL Upper Pltt-at. (opposito Public Baths). ; V •i creat clearing sale :: t i PREVIOUS TO REMOVING TO NEW PREMISES. MILNE & CHOYCE I Respectfully beg to announce that In order to , , enter upon their Now Premises (now HP- j ' preaching completion) with an ENTIRELY NEW STOCK,



They havo decided to oflbr THE WHOLE OF THEIR PRESENT I WELL-KNOWN VALUABLE STOCK A. 8UO"I A REDUCTION IN PRICK AS WXL» ENSURE A SPEEDY CLEARANCE. Jkyeby article in THE HOXJSE ' • WILL BE QUITTED. Tiie SHOP will bo CLOSED on lESS.SDAT, Bth INSTANT, For tho purposo of MARKING DOWN. SALE commences FRIDAY, 9th inst, AN KARLT CALL IS SOMCMED, MILNE & CIIOYCE. . WELLESLEY-STREET.. J. c osGRAVE & c°- A8 tuturo arrangements o£ our Departments puccludo tho retention of our CLOTHING STOCK UkVBU THAN THE FOURTH OF NEXT MONTH, 1 And in order that as Uttlo aa posslbls may bo j • left for AUCTION on that dato, wi havo •; , resolved to FUKTHER REDUCE | THE ALREADY TERY LOW PRICES 1 OV OUR MEN'S AND BOYB' CLOTHING. This will onablo all thoao who want Clothes toi obtain them at CONSIDERABLY UNDER HALF COST PRICE. Thia arranemont will hold good until 4th FEBRUARY, AVTKR WHISH i OUR ORDINARY SCALE OF PRICES' WILL BE RESUMED.



Note the Address— J. QOSGRAVE & C°"; 204 and 206, Qgeen-sibeet. TjIRUIT. FRUIT. FRUIT, j APPLES, PEARS, PLUMS, and PEACHES. In quantities to suit. NORTH N.Z. FARMERS' CO-OPERATIVE ASSOCIATION (limited). _^ PERSONS whose avocations keep themr In doors Bhould take occasionally Wotws SQHNAri'B. , _— Tt/TUNRO AND MILLIGAN'S TWEEDS Akb all Thoroughly Shbunk. FIT AND WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED. Wp E L L. • MOUNT ROSKILL 'BUS Leaves iwfle- National Bank: K.enuale. 7 30 a.m. 7.0 a.m. ■• • y.3oa.m. S.loa.m. •• " 12 noon 11.0 a.m. •• ~ ~ 2.30 p.m. 1,0 p.m. •• ' .. 4.0 pjn. j.O p.m. •• ;. .. 6.45 p,m. i- 30PJn' S _TUBDAVN1 G HT.



D.l! aTmbe ar Chiaeß wholesal° <»>d retail.-