COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &o, To-night. Opera Itouso Dan-all's Company of Selected Artists, 'Sunny South,".. Theatre Royal—Vaiioty Kctortaininent, 8. Parnoll-St. Mary's Social Gathering, 6.30. Lome-street Hall-Dobalo, Messrs Aldridge and Walkor, 7.30. Auokland Royal Lancers' Parade, 8. Moetlngof Butchera ro Plcnlo. 8. H.AC.B. Socloty-Qnartorly Meeting, 8. Devonport Congregational Church — Sacred Conceit in tho Hall. 7 31.

Auction Sales To-morrow.

B. Tonks and Co.—Mr Sparling's Effects, 11. B. Tonks and Co.—Fruit. &o, 11. Hunter and Nolan—Eorsee, &c, 11. Alfred Buckland—Horsoa (Hnymarket). 11. J. R. Randoraon—Patent Stone Blocks, 12. Gabriel Lewis-Musical Boxes, &c„ 11. Edward Loydon—Lease and Goodwill of Coal Yard, 11.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Malls will closo as under :-

This Bay. Per To Anau as follows:— Kor(:hino,.liiuan.ContineiitofKuropo,&c..3p.m. For Russell, Kawakawa. Australian Colonies, and United Kingdom, via Suez and Brindisi or Nuploa, for letters,. &c. apocially so pre paid and addressed, nt 4 p.m. For monoy orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 3pm. JiOtolettersforSydneyaiidMolbourne, Oily, at I. JO p.m. Uniu-d Kingdom mail due id l/ondon on February 16. For Whangarei Heads, Parua, Wnipu, Whan garei, Kamo, and .Mat.gapal, per Macgrogor, at 5 p.m.

Wkdnkboay, December 30. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 7.30 a.m. For New Plymouth and Southern ports, pir

Gairloch, at 11 am. For AYhitiangl. por Agnes Donald, at 11 a.m. For Coromandel, por Coromandel, nt 11.30 a.m. For Port Ctinlincrs and Duncriin, per Arawata,

atl pin. For Katikati, Aongatete. via Thames, per

Enterprise, at 4 p.m. Knr Thames, por Enterprise, at 4.30 p.m. Kjr Wangarei Honda. Parua, Waipu, Wangarei, and Kamo, per Waltaki, at 5 p.m. For Tauranga and Opotiki, por Clansman, at 5 p.m. Thursday. Deceinbor .11.

For Port Fltzroy, Tryphcna, and Oknpn, per

Argyle. at 7 a.m. For Waiwera, To Kapa, and Warkwoitb, por Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. Par Waihora, as follows:—

For India. China. Japan, mediterranean porta, and Continent ot Europe, at 10 a.m. For Gisborne, Napier, Soutnorn ports, Aus tralian Colonies, and United Kingdom, vi_ Suez and Brlndisl, for letters. &0., specially to prepaid and addressed, at 11 a.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at 10 a.m. Late letters till 11.20 a.m.

United Kingdom mail will be due in London on Tuesday, 23rd February.

For Friendly and Navigators' Islands, Tahiti, and Rarotonga, per Janet Nicoll, 5 p.m.

Tuesday, January 5.

Per Alameda as follows :-

For Navigator Islands, Sandwich Island*. 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 Money orders. 10.30 p.m. Registered letters and newspapers, at 11.30 p.m.

Late letters, bearing an extra fee of six pence In addition to tie postage, will be received by the Mai] Agent on board the steamer up to the time rf Bailing.

This mail will bo due tn __on_lon about Feb. 10.

Mote.—Friday. Ist January, will be observed as a Postal Holiday. All mails for dispatch on that day will bo closed on Thursday. 31st inst, at 7 p.m. The Delivery Department will be open on Thursday night from 7 to 8 o'clock. Signed) S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster, Otiler Post-offloe, Auokland,

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

Sunset,—This evening, 7.1(1. Sunrise.—To-morrow wor_in_. 4.»'fl MOON'S AGB.-Last Quarter, 29th, 01am,

HIGH WATER.

Auckland This evening, 1.0; to-morrow m_mng, 1,10. M.nukau tJBADS-This evening, 3.1); to-mor row morning, 1 20. Kaipara H_A_a-T_is evcn'ng, 4 10; to-mor row morning, 5.20.

1 The s.s. Janot Niccol was decked to day. ~ *

Tiiero was no sign of the Waihora when we went to press.

The barque Knsia desred to day for Mongo nni, where she loads timber for Melboirne.

The ateam lunnch built for Mr Yeoman has been out in the harbour several times, and has invariably donowel1. Shesrsamcd tnedi3tanoe from Tam.ti Heads to tho wharf In en hour on Satiinlay.

The ta-que Presto which wastnwed out of the harbour by tho -team tug thii morning, proceeds lo Kaipara, where she wi 1 load timber for Melbourne.

The cutter Mahurangi, from Tonga, reached Rusaoll on Friday last.

The s.s. Maegregor. from Whangarei, brought 10 sacks gum, 80 kcjis and 10 boxes butter, 10 bales wool, !l cases fruit, 30 b^xes eggl, and sundries. Pa3.o_.gars:—Misses Bcult, Windsor, Mesdames Stewart. Mackay. Macleod. Short and two children, Francis. Slower--, Mr and Mra Sinclair, Dr. BuUer. Mstars J. B. Franct_ Bhort, W. A. Cnrruth, Simonda, T A. Tnrloy, Harrison, Walker, Button G. Mackay, Smith, Kitrlck, Hall. Snhi, E. Mackay. D. J. Evans, Anderson. Thompson, Cork, Barker, Eontist, Sand, A. L. Smith. Butters P. McKer-io, W. Anbray, Toaklo, Prescot*. Gnmby, X*. Stewart, WhitehoußO, J. MoKenzie. P. McKenzie, Mai labond Dark, and two children ; ei_ht natives steerage.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

The s.s. Rotorua, for the South, took the fol lowing puflseniiorß:—Messrs C. Hansen, Wal lace, W. Johnston, J. Taylor, T. F. Newcombe, T, A. Jones. Bagnall, L^ird. Fliren. Thomnson, Little, Blair, Onke', Part.ie, Gavin, McGinn. Mesdames C. Hansen and infant, Toole and . ehlldren. Wallace, Wright, Bagnall, McGinn, Thompson. Little, child and nurse. Renfrew and child, Blair, Oakes. Mis 3 s Haselden, God b»y, Wright (2), Aldridge.

KAIPARA SHIPPING.

Te Kopuhd*, this day. —Loading: Grasmere, Waitemata.. Annie Wilson.

Heads, thij day. — No vessels have arrived here. Mr Whitton, diver, commenced operations to day St the Wreck.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

The Arawata from Fiji.

R_B6__A, this day.—The Union Company's s.s. Arawata arrived at 5.16 this morning. She left Levuka at midnight on the 23rd, arrived at Suva at 6 a.m. on the 24th. leaving the pameday for Auokland at 1 p.m. She had moderate S. and S.W. winds and fine weather till arrival. Passengers:—lfor Auokland: Mrs Groundwater, Misses Moss (2). Messrs Marriott. Prince. Baker, Scott, and Watson. For Sydney: Messrs Mason. Bruun, Tarvosandßon. For Melbourne: Captain Fi_ier. Steerage: 10. Cargo:-Sydney: 123 tone, 2.010 bnnches bananas. • Auckland : 74 tjns, 2,550 bunches bananas. Wellington : 30 tons. 1,200 buncheß bananas. Dunedin : 110 hunches bananas. Sr.O coals 10-day, transhio ping her Sydney cargo and passengers per Te Anau to-morrow.

COMMERCIAL.

.CvKtrora Stab Offlce, this day. John Reid & Co. cold the property in the New North Road to-day Cos? -SH, subject to theflrat mortgage of £3CO. Messrs B. Tonks & Go. held a sale to-day of cotta ware, /lowered ohina, glass omamonts, &c. The lines were sold at fair prices, frcm 8s pwaid. The sale of Sydney fruits syas post poned until to-morrow at 12.30.

Notices to Correspondents.

W.W." writes, asking the date of the boiler explosion at the Kurunui battery, Thames. We believe it was in 1870, but perhaps some of our readers may be in a position to state it with greater exactness.

Births.

KEMP.—On December 22, at her residence. Queen-street, lltoftmond, _ Irß C. J. Kemp of a daughter.

Deaths.

ALFORD.-Drowned in the Waikato River, Cambridge, while liathing, on December 26, Marian Emma Alford: aged 15 years. Deeply regretted by her numerous friends.

KINSMAN.—On December 28, at her residence, Kyber Pass Road, after a long and painful illness, Mary, the beloved wife of Edwin Kinsman.

The funeral will leave her late residence to morrow (Wednesday), at 3 p.m.

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

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

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 1885.

A,t a moment when the people of New Zealand are invited to plunge further into debt for unproductive works, it {3ehoy.es us to consider seriously the actual.position of our public indebted

ness in relation to our revenue and resources. The sppended passages, culled from an article in the December number of the " Australasian Insurance and Banking Record," based upon the data furnished in Mr Hayter's valuable compilation and. digest of official statistics, places New Zealand in a most unfavourable light as contrasted with ihe other colonies of Australasia, and proves conclusively how delusive the plea is that interest on our debt is nearly covered by the revenue derived from services rendered. The figures speak for themselves, but the broad fact brought into prominence by the " Record," that nearly half the gross revenue of the colony (after the profits from railways have been credited), or two-thirds of the revenue raised by the heavy taxation through the Customs and on property, is required to pay interest on the New Zealand debt, is a fact serious enough to be positively alarming. It amounts simply to this— that while the colony cannot stand any great addition to ils burden of taxation, a heavy increment of the public debt will result in the hypo thecation of the entire revenue to the public creditor, and leave the colony in a condition of actual bank ruptcy. There is no use in blinking the facts. The colony now is able, with economy, to bear its present in debtedness, and to provide for a moderately progressive policy. With the increase of population and the natural growth and stimulation of its productive power, the burden will become less oppressive every year. But a nation is no more able than an individual to conjure resources from the clouds to meet the deficit on im prudent and unprofitable investments ; ihere must come a time when the ex penditure exceeds the largest possible income derivable from a people whose energies are sapped by a grinding taxation ; and then the case is only to be met by that ugly word—hateful to nations and disastrous lo their pros perity—repudiation. Under com monly prudent management, New Zea land has now nothing to fear, but her finances are in a condition not to be trifled with, nor handled in a spirit of reckless gambling speculation. With this preface, we reproduce the extract from the " Record," which provokes a comparison between the financial posi tion of New Zealand and the neigh bouring colonies, and furnishes reli able data for making it: —

Collating Tables IV. and V.,wo arrive at the following particulars regarding railway earnings and tho charge on tho public debt :-

These nre interesting results, putting the question of the pressure of colonial in debtedness in a somewhat now light. To pursue the subject more closely, wo form the following table, which will be explained by tho headings affixed : -

In the case of soveral of the colonies these figures are slightly reducible by net earnings of minor services. The general deduction is that in Victoria and New South Wales tho pressure of tho public indebtedness is oxtremoly light. Although, for instance, the public debt of Now South Wales was £30,101,059 on 31st December last, yot tho portion of thochargo upon it not covered by net railway earnings was equivalent to about 4 J per cont. ouly of the revenue (not inclusive of railway revenue), und to about 10 por. cent, of that portion of tho revenue which is raised by taxation. In fact, it was not one-third of the- amount, expended in education. Of course, the method we havo followed brings out the fact that in two or threo colonies the pressure of tho public indebtedness upon the population is extremely heavy. In New Zealand, for example, nearly half tho revenue (not inclusive of railway revenue), or moro than two-thirds of the amount raised by taxation, is devoted to the payment of the uncovered portion of the charge on the public debt.

Cheap Patriotism.

When the Australians wero fulminating against Lord Derby for not instantly com mitting tho English taxpayers to an in definite annual expenditure on account of Now Guinea, the astute Secretary of State administered a cold doucho to their en thusiasm by asking how much it was worth in coin of the realm, The colonists winced, but after much haggling.greatly at variance with their eagerness to complete the business at England's expense, agreed to pay £15,000 a year, which is much loss than the cost of administering the por tion of the country actually annexed. The Home Government then established British rule over the whole of the southorn coast, which appeared to be necessary for the pro tection of Australian interests. But although this embracod far more territory than there is any chance of settling, tho im placable Victorian Premier, who seems to have lost his head over this affair and Federation, still raved. Now, thero is a likelihood of the guaranteeing colonies meanly backing out one by one, leaving England with her acquisition. South Aus tralia ha_ already given formal notice that she will cease paying hor share of tho sub sidy after the end of tho current term, nnd Mr Service's own recent utterances seem to justify such a course, if they are not actually preparatory to Victoria following suit. In a recent speech in the Victorian Assembly he said: "He could never think of the episode in which Lord Derby lost New Guinea to Australia except with absolute disgust. At the timo that wo were asked to pass the £15,000 it was believed that we would not only get New Guinea, but New Britain, New Ireland, and the other islands, and it was under such an impression that ho wired Home guaranteeing tho whole of the money on the part of Victoria. It turned out, however, that we did not get New Guinea, but only a slice of it, and there is no doubt but it was a shabby way to secure the vote."

Lord Derby took the most practical way of subduing the annexation craze when he made the Australians experience something of the cost of these "fads," and although we may still be favoured with outbursts of Servician bluster, it is easy to sco that strong words are now used to cover inward chagrin rathor than to express any honest feeling that a single Australian interest of substantial magnitude baa been sacrificed through the reluctance of the Home Go vernment in yielding to the demand for Imperial recognition of theee costly an J comparatively valueless dependencies.

With the lost issue of tho "Australasian Sketcher " is givon away a coloured supple ment entitled " A Friend in Need," depict ing the care of two bushmen over their last match. Tho number also contains a por trait of the lato Goneral Scratchley, and a number of other admirable illustrations. ,

A sacred concert will be givon this even ing in tho Devonport Hall, in aid of the funds of the Congregational Church of tho district. An excellont programme has been prepared for the occasion. THo Beresford street choir will give selections, and local vocalists will render gratuitous assistance.

The monthly meeting of tho Auckland Institute of 'Architects waa held last evening in tho Museum Lecture-room. Tho attendance was Email; consequently no matter of special importance was brought up. Mr Henry G. Wade (Vice-President) occupied the chair. There was a discussion on tho business to be sot down for tho annual meeting to bo hold in tho lirst month of the new year.

Mr W. E. Mears, bookseller, has for warded a copy of tho " Graphic " Christmas number. It is fully up to tho high standard of former years. Tho largo coloured plato is a reproduction of W. L. Thomas's paint ing, "Down " and " Up," depicting a little girl sick and well again. Caldicott contri butes a humorous series, " The Cur mudgeon's Christmas," and the othor plates are admirable. The leading story is "Tho History of a Week," by Mrs L, B, Walford.

Mr lieorgo 1. Hill, Nowton, and all his family narrowly escaped death by poisoning caused by eating corned tongue, which proves to have [been diseased, though ex tornally it appeared perfectly sound, Several hours aftor partaking of this, he, his wife and child wero renderod completely prostrate, being unable to movo for over an hour, while yellow spots appoared on their faces. To prove that it was tho tongue that did tho mischief, somo of it was given to a dog, and tho animal shortly aftorwards vomited freely. Mr Hill and family havo now quite recovered from the effects of tho poison.

By reference to our advertising columns, it will bo seen that a parochial excursion of tho frionch and parishioners of St. Thomas's to tho charming island of Motuihi will tako place on Friday noxt, New Year's Day. Tho s.s. Coromandel has boon chartered, nnd will leave Quoen-6trect Wharf nt !) a.m., returning to town in tho cool of tho ovoning. From tho number of othor marine oxcursions projocted, it can bo gathered how popular thoy aro, and how attractive tho bracing sea breezes becomo during the heat of summer.

A man named John Hully was arrosted the othor day on the charge of stealing some articlos from Mr Atkins's drapery establishment. In prisoner's possession there was found a lot of silk scarves, which wore subsequently found to have been stolen from Mos..ra Fenton and Company.

At Nelson Regatta on Boxing Day an Auckland-built boat, the Dream, was suc cessful in carrying off honours in tho handi cap raco and the first-class open sailing boats. The Droam, which will be re membered horo as a smart Failor, was sailed by Mr T. A. Askew. Sho was built here for Farquhar, and .was purchased by Mr J. VV. Askew.

The law partnership hitherto existing be tween Messrs Burton and Napier, barristers and solicitors, has been dissolved by mutual consent. M r Napior retains tho Chambers in High-street, and Mr Burton has entered into a now partnership with Mr Koesing, who has beon practicing for the last four years in Cambridge, and previously in Aus tralia. Tho now firm have taken ollicos in Queen street, 5 and C, Meicantile Cham bers,

Tho sports at Hamilton yesterday woro woll attended, tho excursion train from Auckland taking up a number of local pods. Tho principal handicap, tho cup, of 100, 300, and 500 yards, valued at £25, was won by Buchanan, of Auckland, Hockon boing second, while Monnock, of Auckland, did not get a place. The three-mile walking wa? won by S. Goodniiin, while S. Downey ol Auckland was second iv tho milo handi cap.

Wo are rcquosted to acknowledge tho following donations for tho Old Hospital Koftige :— Papers from the Roy. J. S. Hill, cakes from Mrs Burgess for women in Refuge, fruit and flowers from Mothcdist Free Church, Mount Edon ; cakos, Mr Phillips, bakor, Nowton; largo parcel of illustrated papers, Mrs L. D. Nathan. All tho inmates feci very grateful to thedonois for theso handsomo and useful presents, and for their kind remembrances at this season.

Mr P. Chappell Brown, of Vulcan Lane, has fitted several gotitlomen's private resi dences with his patent window ventilators, nnd these havo given every eutisfaction. Tho vontilator consists of a small frame work which is fixed in the window frame without tho slightest troublo, nnd is elegant in appearance as well aa most serviceable. It. special features aro that it- gives thorough ventilation without draught, and is fly and mosquito proof. No doubt, as its merits become known, it will bo more widely adopted,

On tho evening of Christmas Day, a special service in connection with the Gospel Temperance Mission was held in the Protestant Hall, Kurnngahape Road. Short seasonable addresses wore given by Messrs E. Wood (Chairman), W. Ambury, J. Wykes, T. Wilcox, and R. French. Ap propriate hymns wore rendered by the choir. On Sunday evening, tho usual service was held ;Mr Neal presided. Ad dresses wero givon by Mr E. Wood and Mr Crabtree.

Thero is in the press, and will shortly bo published, a spirited march, composed by Mr Alfred I'ooloy, of this city, for the in augural ceremony of tho now Star Hotel, Albert-street. It has been written to tho order of Mr Cairns, tho popular proprietor of tho establishment, and is already in rehearsal by tho Artillery Band, under Mr Hunter, for whom it was scored by the composer. Tho march will be performed for tho first timo by tho band at tho open ing coremony, to take place in a few weeks, and as tho pianoforte orrangemont will im mediately after bo in tho hands of tho tiiusic-sellers, copies can bo had. The title pago contains a finely-exocutod viow of the now building.

The variety performance nt tho Thoatre Royal last evening was fairly patronised. The songs of Miss Kate Howard and Mr F. W. Fisher formed tho principal attrac tions.

The Committee of tho St. Georgo's Bay Rowing Club has accepted the tonder of Mr Robt. Logan, of North Shore, for a racing whaleboat, in which the Club is to bo represented in thp champion race on January 29th. Judging from the clues of work this buildorturnsout, tho boatshould provo both fast and well found,

Yesterday a poll of ratepayers in Eden Terrace District took placo at Mr Free man's store for the olection of a trußteo. Mr 1 _ 11. Heighway acted aa Returning Officer, and tho result of tho poll was as follows;— James McCormiok, 24-; John Hough, 22 j John James Hunter, G. Mr McCormick was declared elected.

The Sir Henry Havolock Band of Hope held their usual fortnightly mooting in tho schoolroom last night, tho Vice-President in the chair. Owing to tho holiday time,there was only a moderate attendance, but thoee present spent a vory pleasant hour in listen ing to an interesting address by the Chair man, Master James Austin contributed a recitation, and tho Secrotary a readiog. M isß Florrie Picard sang " Write Me a Letter From Home," very nicely, and also con tributed a reading. A number of Band of Hope melodies were also sung during the evening. It should bo mentioned that in tho unavoidable absence of the Bond of Hope organist (Mrs Smith), the pianist (MissAloy) kindly presided at tho organ. At the close of the meeting the Chairman announced that the next meeting would be held that day fortnight.

In the schedule filed by Mr Henry Henty on the 24th November the National Bank of Australasia is included as a creditor of £73,500. But the bank will not be a claimant against the estate, because for two-thirds of the sum of £73,500 eet against their name there are other people liable, who are quite sufficient, and the re mainder, consisting of guarantees, is now a cause of action in the Supreme Court against the firm of Messrs Jas. Henty and Co., as it now exists; Mr Henty's insol vency has excited much regret. The losses of the partnership during the pa9t two years are estimated at £226,069, and the private losses of Mr Henry Henty at -103,971.—" Banking Record."

The excursion made by the s.s. Waitaki to Man o'-War Bay, Waiheke Island, on Boxing Day, proved so thoroughly enjoy able that Messrs Pennel and Niocol, who chartered tho steamer for that occasion, have decided to run another excur sion on New Year's Day. Man-o'- War Bay is a largo sheltered inlet on the eastern end of tlie island, and as the whole trip is made in smooth water, it is a great inducement to people whose stomaohs will not enable them to mako an excursion in more exposed water. Tho Bcenery is very beautiful, the blooming pohutukawas being quite a feature. The settlers proved very hospitable, and have promised to organise sports for New Year's Day,

The " Town and Country Journal" takes a foremost place among tho Christmas issues of Australian pictorial journals. Besides a host of seasonable plates there_ is included with the number a presentation plate of Her Majesty the Queen executed in colours. The chromo-lithographs issued from time to time by the proprietors of this enterprising paper now make up quite a pretentious little gallery. As further evidenco of the onterprise of tho proprietors of this popular weekly, wo notice that Mr Charles H. Tophnm, their travelling artist and correspondent, has just closed an extended tour of New Zealand, and taken his departure by tho steamer Te Anau to-day. Mr Topham has taken a number of sketches of Auckland and suburbs, as well as drawings of scenery in the Hot Lake district, and these will help to illustrate a series of articles which he is contributing to the "Town and Country Journal," entitled "Through New Zealand, with Pen and Pencil."

Tho Caledonian Society aro disappointed with the number of entries received for their sports, and though entries are still being received, we understand there is a disposition to postpone the sports till January 30th. A meeting of the directors of the Socioty was to be held this afternoon to consider the matter.

Tho childron attending Mount Albert Wesleyan Sunday-school were treated to their usual Christmas outing by the Super intendent, Mr T. J. Garlick. The yo\xm> people proceeded to Mr Garlick'a grounds, whero various amusements were engaged in and refreshments served in abundance, In the evening a magic lantern exhibition was provided for them by Mr H. Smith, and songs and recitations followed and closed a most enjoyable day.

A cricket match will be played to-morrow afternoon on the Domuin Cricket Ground. commencing at 1 o'clock sharp, between the National Cricket, Club and a team picked from the petty officers and marines of H.M.S. Nelson. The following will represent the National: Ambury, Drummond, Mackie, Nicholson (2), Sulli van, Walker (2), Wilkinson (2), White.

Thero aro now 15 men at work on the contracts let by Waitemata County Council at Waikomiti for the benefit of the unem ployed. Tenders are invited for the removal of a. bridge and formation of a large wooden culvert, which offers an opportunity for carpenters and othor.. who may be out of work,

TABLE TALK.

H.M.S. Nelson's Htay prolonged. " Tho Sunny South " still draws crowds, Hon. P. Buckley has returned to Wei lington.

Star Monthly Summary this week. Only ten " unemployed ", working at Dunedin,

There are 88 patients in Auckland Hos pital. Tenders for new Covernment printing office to bo in by 15th January. Fresh strawberries are now sent from Hobart to Sydney.

A youth named Chaß. Styles was drowned off Potono, Wellington, yesterday, through tho capsizing of a boat.

Pickpockets nt Drury Races yosterday stole £40 from two youog mon'from the country.

A stablo nnd four valuable liorseß, belong ing to Mr Dawson, of Pukerau, Otairo, havo beon destroyed by fire; incendiarism sus pected. Tho "Rationalist " papor has died of in anition; aged 27 weeks.

Professor Tucker was introduced to tho Council of Melbourno University or. 14th inst.

Mr Whalo, pork butcher, Ponsonby, had a linely-docorated Christmas window.

That gambling monkey has been arrested by the Thames police. Win. Mitohotl has boon drowned while bathing noar Foxton.

About 1,000 persons, pakoha and Maori, attended tho annual Boxing Day sports at Alexandra. Tho "bustles" of the Maori belles were immense.

That East und West Coast Railway will, it is said, bo taken in hand " by a most re sponsible syndicate in London."

Fire at To Arai, Gisborne, ycstoiday, destroyed a two story houso belonging to Mr W. Wron.

Mrs Fanny Shiors has been arrested as boing of unsound mind.

On Boxing Day 8,'_50 passengers travelled ovor the Auckland tramways. The Anglican missioners havo gone on a visit to tho Hot Lakes, Will they never bo out of hot water ?

Louisa Morrison has died in Christchurch Hospital from the otl'ects of the tramway accident reported yesterday. Old Tutukino, at Thameß, has with drawn his railway obstruction in return for somo ''slight concessions"—probably a plug of tobacco and a bottlo of squaro gin !

At Dunedin, eovon seamen of the ship Waitangi are in custody, charged with embezzling cargo; the attractions of "square gin" aro said to have been too strong for the accused.

Thos. Hodson, tho popular jockey, was injured at Drury Races through tho horso Soukar, which ho waa riding, falling at a huidlo aud rolling over him. Hodson miraculously escaped with only slight in juries.

Tho Waikato mystery ia still unsolved; but it is proposed to exhume tho body of Ihe supposed murdered man to find if he is identical with tho missing man Dunbar.

H.M.S. NELSON.

There is somo probability of the Admiral's flagship remaining in harbour till next week, so that thoso of the public who may wish to visit it may yet have an opportun ity of doing so. It is the intention of Admiral Tryon, on his return from the Hot Lakes, to make an inspection of the har bour, dock, and othor points of interest. On Thursday tho sonior oflicers of tho Nel son are to mako a tour of tho harbour under the guidance of the members of the Harbour Board. It is further arranged that Admiral Tryon shall on Monday next hold an inspection of the naval forces of Auckland, and of course this prevents the departure of the Nolaon on Sntuiday, as was intendod. The members of tho Northern Club intend giving a bali in honour of Admiral Tryon, the captain and othor officers of H.M.S. Nelson, on Thursday evening. Preparations are being mado for the ovent,which should boa brilliant assem blage, os it is not often an Admiral is tho recipient of Auckland hospitality.

SPORTING NEWS.

Mangawhare Races.

(BY TELKfIRArir - OWN CORRESPONDENT )

Helensville, this day. The Mangawhare Races on Saturday and Monday attracted a largo attendance. Tho various evonts resulted : - First Day. Maiden Hurdle. -Zip, 1 1 Investmont, 2; Stranger, 3,

Bushmen's Purse. - Snake, 1 ; Tiger, 2; Nannie, 3, fl '

Maiden Plate.-Beanstalk, 1; Wyatt Forbes, 2 ; Investment, 3. Mangawhare Cup.—F. Marriner's Bean stalk, 1; Alpha, 2; Tiger, 3. Four started,

Settlers-Handicap.- Snake, 1; Glencoo, 2. . '

Second Day.

Handicap Hurdles.-Foster and Mc- Leod's Tiger, 1 ; Zip, 2. Flying Stakes.—Snako, 1 ; Glencoe, 2. Mangawhare Handicap. — Tiger, 1 • Alpha, 2 ; Beanstalk, 3. Ladies' Bracelet.—lnvestment, 1; Zip, 2; Stranger, 3. A protest against Invest ment was allowed.

Pob-ICAns' Purse.—Snake, 1; Wyatt Forbes, 2 ; Glencoe, 3. Consolation.—Alpha, 1,

Dunedin Cup Betting.

(BY TELEGRAPH,— PRESS ASSOCIATION,)

Dunedin, this day.

The following was tljg Cup betting after the acceptances were declared last night: —100 to 14 against Lochiel; 100 to 10 Lady Emma, Fusilade and Trenton; 100 to 8 Nelson and Leon; 100 to 7 Captain Web ster, Everton Lad, July and Necklace; 100 to 6 Tasman, Derringer, Turquoise, Hermit age, Ruseley, Tiger Tim and Patrician ; 100 to 5 Spade Guinea ; 100 to 4 Rubezahl • 100 to 3 Warbeck; 100 to 2 Jupiter and Scrap's filly.

Nominations for the Onehunga Cup and Hurdles are due to-morrow night. Nominations for the principal events of the Takapuna Summer Meeting closo on Thursday next at 9 p.m. The Onehunga meeting taking place after the weights appear, winners of the Onehunga Cup and Handicap Hurdles are to carry Tibs penalty each.

CABLEGRAMS.

[by electric telegraph.—copyright.]

[reuter's teleoramk ]

Mauritius Advices.

Adelaide, December 2S.—Tho following items aro taken from Ireland, Fraser, and Co.'s circular of December 9, to hand per Mossngories steamer Sydney :—The sugar crop is reported to bo much smaller than that of last year, the decrease being at lea~t 25 000 tons. Freights to Australia are 15s, and to New Zealand 25s ; exchange, 60 days. Bank credits : New Zealand, 31 per cent. ; Australia, 30. por cent. Ihere are no clearances or engagements reported for New Zealand.

AUSTRALIAN.

New South Wales Politios.

Sydney, this day.—Sir John Robertson has issued a political manifesto, which refers principally to the Land Act of New South Wales, and indicates amendments that it is considered desirable to introduce into the measure. These alterations, Sir J. Robertson says, will largely assist the financial arrangements of the colony. It is the intention of the Government to take the earlieat opportunity of proposing to Parliament other measures for meeting the deficiency in revenue, and placing the finances of tho country on a sound basis. The Wharf Labourers Dispute. Melbourne, December 28. There is no change to report in the dis pute between the wharf labourers and tho masters, as owing to tho holidays the differences have remained in abeyance. Changes In the Victorian Ministry The Ministerial changes foreshadowed by the " Argus" aro fully confirmed, Today Messrs Service and Berry will retire. After the conclusion of tho Federal Conucil, which iB expected to finish its work by tho 20th of February, Mr Sorvice proceeds to England for two years. Tho appointment of Mr Berry as Agent-Goneral will probably be gazetted to-day.

THE IRISH QUESTION.

What Mr Parnell is Prepared to Accept.

(SPECIAL TO PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

London, December 2S. Mr LAiiotiCHERE affirms that Mr Parnell is prepared to accept an Irish Parliament (a fourth of its members to bo the nominees of the Crown), a customs union with England, and the right to voto at Westminster on Imperial questions ; also a Royal Viceroy in Ireland exercising tho right of voto with tho advico of the Privy Council of Ireland- Mr Parnell also agrees to the compensation of landlords.

TELEGRAMS.

Thames, this day. —Mr Wilkinson has virtually settled tho Komata railway sur vey difficulty. Tutukinu will consent to the lino passing through his kainga with out charge provided a Hag station is erected for his convenience

Kenneth Arthurson was arrested at the Racocourso yesterday charged with con ducting a gamo of chance in which a monkey and revolving barrol containing numbered marbles woro tho chief instruments. When arraigned this morning, his counsel contended that the game was a sweopstako, and that all such aro legal on a racecourse as long as the aggregate sum played for does not exceed £5. Tho Justices took tho samo viow nnd dismissed the case.

Messrs Frasor and Kilgour, tho can didates for the Presidency of the School of Minos Association, have consonted to with draw with a viow tc inviting Mr Justice Gillies to accept tho chair.

Helensville, this day.— Radcliff aud Rita had a full house at Dargaville. Thoy porform at Helousvillo to-morrow evening.

Cußi.srcii-RCii, this day,—lho wife of William Bailoy, farmer, Eyroton, died suddenly this morning.

Allegod 111-treatment of a Boy.

Christchorch, Monday.—At thoinstance of tho police the body of the boy Hazie hurst was exhumed yesterday and examined by three doctors in the presence of Inspec tor Pender and Mr M artin,Crown Prosecu tor. Portions of tho discoloured flosh wore pre served for further examination. The doc tors aro of opinion that tho discolourations wero the result of blows, which caused death.

Sculling Match at Riverton.

Invercargill, Monday.—At the Rivor ton Regatta to day, a sculling match took placo between Harrington and Bonifacs (a local oarsman), Harrington conceding a minulo over a three aud a-half miles course. Harrington, who, it will be remembered, lost his chance in the race with Hearn last year over the samo courso through fouling a sunk fence, on this occ ision broke a scull, and, of course, had to give up. He accuses Boniface of being the cause of the accident, by fouling him.

Dunedin, this day.—ln the estate of James Finch, wine merchant, the liabilities are £8,102, and the assets £1,111.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES.

St. Paul's.

The Christmas decorations at St. Paul's were tastefully arranged, pleasing and without ostentation. The pulpit, font, and other parts of the church wero graced with festoons of seasonable flowers, ferns, and moss, and formed a scene at once offectivo and commendable. Tho decorative ar rangements were due to tho good tasto of Mrs Nelson and Mrs Hctley. Neat con trivances wero also made and attached for holding wator, so that the evergreens and flowers will be kept alivo with all their freshness during the festive season. The text over the chancel window comprised the words in bright letters, "Tho Word was made flesh and dwelt among us." Tho let ters wero composed of small flowers. The phurch waa largely attended on Sunday, and being St. John's Day, tho sorvice was festal. Thp Rev. C. Bodington conducted tho morning service, and preached from the Bqok of Revelation, ph, 1-1, v. 4 : "These aro they who follow the Lnrnb whithersoever ho goeth." Tho sermon wqs explanatory and forciblo. the preacher treating the subject under threo heads, reviewing those who follow the Lamb, tho Beast, nnd tho False Prophet, confronting ill strong colours tho followers of tho Beast and the fo!lowers of tho Lamb. In tho evening tho Bishop hold a confirmation service, which was largely attended. Ton young persons offered themselves for con firmation, and took upon themselves the responsibilities made by their sponsors ut the baptismal font. The picture of the candidates was imposing. Tho Bishop's sermon, based upon tho 4th verso of the 10th chapter of St. John, was mainly directed to tho young people, and was in structive and impressive.

St. Mary's, Parnoll,

On Christmas Bay tho services com menced with a Communion service at half past six in themorning.at which thero were 86 communicants, and was followed by service ot 8 aud 11 a.m. At fhe last-named the sermon was preached by the Bishop of the diocose. The church was beautifully decorated with flowers and evergreens, the eastern end being made very effective with white background and evergreen arches and lattice work relieved by white flowers. The font and lectern wore tastefully decor ated, the latter having a Maltese cross of red geraniums on a white ground. Tho total number of communicants at the three morning services wes 109. On Sunday even ing the sermon waa preached by the Rev. G. E. Mason, one of tho'miesioner**, to a crowded church.

The General Synod of the Anglican Church opens its sittings in Auckland in January next. Mr E. Larkins has been elected to represent Gisborne district on the occasion. For the diocese of Dunedin Yen Archdeacon' Beaumont and Rova A I*1 Fitchett and A. Gilford will bo the clerical representatives, while the lay representa tives will be :-DunediD, Mr E. E C Quick ; Oamaru, Colonel Haultain ; ltiver' Mrß^K.r?on SCandrett7 QHe6nßtOWn-

At Dunedin yesterday .Judge Williams presented the medals and certificates of the Royal Humane Society of Australia to J. P_f_?*"__ ard. P, HIan > and William Potoki, the lotter is the Maori youth who saved the life o Rev. Mr Maurir-i

GREAT FIRE IN WELLINGTON.

EIGHT SHOPS DESTROYED

(IIV TELEGRAMI-PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Wellington, this day

The most disastrous fire which has occurred

hero since the Opera Houso firo broke out

this morning. Tho alarm was given about

7.45, when Myers's picture-frame manufac turer's shop in Lambton Quay was discovered

to be on firo, but the origin of tho con

fiflgration is unknown. Tho Fire Brigade wero soon on tho spot, but appeared unable to cope with tho task before them, and as a conseqnonce, tho firo spread rapidly to Smart's dystor saloon and Mrs Nelson's fruit shop on either side, which wero soon levelled to the ground. Tho flames wero still gaining on tho Brigade, and Aldous's tobacconist Bhop, Spiller's music Bhop, Farmer's largo furniture warehouse, tho Wellington Meat Co.'s butcher shop, and Mrs Paul's milliner shop wero aom pletoly destroyed. Tho fire also des troyed tho stables of the Meat Com pany, and then extended to some cottages iv a small lano running off Wood ward-street, and all theso wore destroyed, but the occupants are not yet known. Hayes's plumber's shop, Arrow Smith's, fruiterer, and the Branch Hotel had very narrow escapes. Sparks wero carried a long distance, and tho Occidental Hotel, Dr. Henry's houeo, and tho Central Club woro on fire at one time, but wore saved with somo difficulty.

Losses and Insurances,

Tho following aro the insurances as far as can be ascertained : — Farmer's shop, £1,000 in tho South British, reinsured for £500 in the Hanseatic and £150 in tho Standard; Aldon, Smart, and Neil and Son's shops, £300 in tho South British, reinsured for £75 in tho Hanseatic and £500 in the London, Liverpool, and Globo; Paul's shop, £250 in tho Norwich Union and £250 in tho Victoria ; Neilson's £150 in tho Standard, and £250 in the Victoria ; Farmor'p, £250 in the Victoria ; Neilson and Myers, £200 in tho Colonial; Branch Hotel, £500 on stock (about £50 damage) in tho Colonial; Itayos (slight damage to stock), £500 in tho Colonial, £500 in tho Standard, and £500 in the I ivorpool, London, and Globe.

Thomas's produce store, somo distanco away, took firo from tho sparks, and 50 or 00 bags of grain were destroyed. These promisos wero insured in tho Standard for £400. The National office havo a lien of about £1.500, but it is not known how it is divided.

LATER.

More Destruction. Insurances, £7.000.

Four cottages known as James's Cot tages, occupied by W. Bryant and family, Noill and family, occupants ot othor two boing unknown, and Hayes, Pattern, and Copporsmith's shop were also burnt down. Several buildings some considerable dis tance away wore discovered to bo on fire, but weredistinguished before thoy weromuch damaged. Hayes estimatos his loss at £1,000 over insurance. Paul's and Neilson's shops wero owned by Mrs Kano ; Myers', Smart's, and Aldon's by tho trustees of tho lato Dr. Evans. Farmer's shop and cot tages wero owned by the Hon. Wi Tako, and sub-let to W. James. Tho amount of property destroyed is estimated at over £12,000, or £7,000 above insurance.

. The firo this morning took place on tho same spot ns the great fire in May, ISI3S. On that occasion, tho samo block was swept away by lire.

The following aro furthor insurances :— Farmer's: United, £500; Royal, £500; Union, £500 ; National, £400 ; workshop, Equitable, £100; South British, £200: total on Farmer's, £345, Myers: Colonial, £400; workshop, Northern, £300. Aldon's : South British, £300 ; National, £375. Smart: i ondon and Liverpool, £500. Four Cottages : Equitable, £400 ; Spiller, National, £100. Tho total in surance-on buildings destroyed is £7,000,

GAMBLING AT ELLERSLIE.

The recent arrest at Ellerslie on the chargo of committing a breach of the Gaming and Lotteries Act formed the sub ject of a prosecution at the Police Court to day before Messrs H. G. Seth Smith, 8.M,, und R, Stevenson, J. P. Benjamin Stevens was charged with a breach of the Gaming and Lotteries, by establishing and conducting at Eliernlie a cortain game of chance, and selling tickets to the amount of 245, by which permission or authority was gained by twelve persons to havo an interest in the said game of chanco. Mr Napier appeared for accused, and said, that ho had advised him to pleaded guilty, as a technical breach of the law had been com mitted. The accused was engaged all day in getting up sweepstakes under tho lawful amount of £5. Tho game was a perfectly fair one, tho investors betting on certain horses, and tho winners taking the pro coeds on something like tho totalisator principle. Accused was aware that he had no right to deduct commission, and ex plained to his customers during the morn ing that such deduction was unlawful. It was, however, optional for them to give him voluntarily something for his trouble, and this they did during the day. At tho time of tho arrest, accused, in tho hurry of tho moment, inadvertently deducted 4s for commission, and was promptly arrested by tho detective. Sergeant Pratt said his ovidenco was to the cifeot that the detective repeatedly warned the accused, and told him that he must be care ful not to offend. Tho Bench inflicted a fine of 53 and costs. Sergeant Pratt applied for the confiscation of tho instrument by which the game was carried on. Mr Napier objected, and tho Bench held thht there was no charge of playing with an unlawful machine, Tho application was refused, and the machino handed over to Stevens.

MASONIC.

The annual meeting and installation of officers of Lodge St. Androw, 418, S.C, waa held last evening at the Masonic Hall, Princes street. Thoro tvas a very large attendance, and among the visitors wero the Worshipful Masters of Lodges Waite mata, Prince of Wales', Ara, and United Ser vice,and several brethren from H.M.S. Nel son. The lodgo was opened in tho first degree by Bro. Dr. Walker, the retiring '.W.M,, and after it had beon duly p-,--cd and raised, Bro. H. A. H.'Hitchens va_ duly installed into the chair. Bros Piist Masters J. P. Slator and Hevvson acied .-s Directors of Ceremonies, and Bro. M. .Niccol, who represented tho i .P.G.M., porformed the duties of Installing Master in a most impressive manner. Subsequently Bro. Hitchens invested his officers as follows: —1.P.M., Bro. Dr. Walker; D.M., Bro. Symonds; S.M., Bro, Anderson ; Chaplain, Bro. Gould; S. W., Bro. Farquhar Macrae; J.W., Bro. J. P. King; Treasurer, Bro. J. Slator ; Secrotary, Bro. R. Kayo; S.D., Bro. M. McLeod; J.D., Bro. J. McMasters ; Organist, Bro. Dr. Walker ; S S., Bro. D. Urquhart; J.S., Bro. Bruford ; Biblo Bearer, Bro. K. As kew; IC, Bro. J. Page; Tyler, Bro. B. Tongo. After tho sovoral chargea had been delivered, the congratulations of visitors wero received, and the Lodge was duly closed. An adjournment was then made to the social room, whero light refreshments had been spread^ by Mrs Tonge, and soveral Masonic toasts were duly honoured. During tho evening, Bro. Hitchens produced a handsome Biblo and cushion, which hud been presented to the Lodgo by Mrs Samuel Walker, of Papakura. On one side of the cushion was beautifully woiked a square and compass, and tho name and number of the Lodge.

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Before Mr R. Stevenson, J.p o

DKUNKENNESS. — Eight t_ punished for this offence aI 0" 8 W6te Shoo, who had been arresieri n i^-i mght, and released on bSRS Z H^ and a warrant was ordered to ■____* *?*_*< apprehension.-Sarah ___2_____ *? h« being an habitual drunkard .nl 8 denl «l admitted having been d ' , l f° Ugh eh° within the last six monthraj?"' tblea two months' imprison^-. %¥ l° labour.-Mrs Dent der,*d L _ h hard l onstable Clark denoted tL char 8<5. ---in a cart with he. huffi VT* •" hape Koad, and was helnWiv,. ™rang«- the accused had not b en „ k she was discharged mSi^.S should not repeat the "Ccc tkt she Ax Intoxicated Driver 7t_,v -n charged under the Police Off™!, _ent Was being drunk while in"wfeM'rtth cart ut Nowton yesterday. Ip n ?J * """f a»d guilty. Con 6 t«ble Clark w™ Z?l^ stated that ho arrested the £___§*'£** seven o'clock last night V, ÜBed about ahorse and cart, aVwas I n \ d . .D& state of drunkenness. It «• .1 V L? lple6B and other people's safety that »it„ OWn rested the accused.-As this w„= t" eßa ■* first appearance iJb^g* Bench took a lenient view of thnm.tr ho fined him 20a aud OoKtaSjSfe^ days' imprisonment with hard labour " Alleged Wounding. -SteZn _ , was charged with unlawfuly P Robe; fc ™J M«« with at cused pleaded not guilty, and asked fo_ _ remand till January 4th.-Sen.ean? p __ said he would ask "for a SffißJ* morrow. Tho charge was a serious nn." Mr Glover having been badly i n S b! waa under the doctor's care, and could B „! appear to-day. If the remand tiffin were granted he would see that th*. cused be placed on bail. Be SDDeaiS summon, now, as the police had Tot care_ to arrest him -The case was remanded S to morrow, the prisoner being detained , h the alternative of finding bail for his r__L poaranco. ■ aP.

(Mr 11. G. Seth Smith R.M., looking on the Bench,) at

A__Kged Larceny.-John Holly m . charged with tha larceny of two silk hand kerchiefs, tho property of Henry Atkins Mr Gould appoared for prisonei, ami pleaded guilty, but under exienua in_ dr cumstances. The accused was drunk and made no secret of having iaken the thins* In fact, ho was flourishing theniintheshoV and refused to give them up when aßked to do so. Accuecd was then charged with stealing scarves, socks, purses, &c the property of Thomas Short, Co-opera ivo Drapery Company, and W. H. Fenton - Mr Gould pleaded not guilty, and said that as a matter of fact the accused was drunk and did not remember whether lie purchased the goodß. He did buy a number of articles that night.—Alfred Chappeli, William _ Rushbrook, Charles Marks, irnest Melton, and George Nozer shopmen at the various places from which tho goods were said to have been stolen idontifiod tho articles as having theiripri vato marks. They could not, however, say that the goods had not boon sold, although thoy did not sell to prisoner.-Constable Hansen deposed to the arrest—Minnie Holly, sister of the accused, deposed that her brother was intoxicated on the night of his arrest. -Mr Gould begged for the leniency of the Court for his client.—.Sen tenced to fourteen days'imprisonment for each offence, the sentences to run consecu tively.

Lakieny. — Henrietta Maunsell wag brought up on several charges of larceny from drapers' shops in the city, viz, a parasol, Os Cd, tho property of Alexander Sneddon; two print costumes and other articles, tho property of- the Melbourne Clothing Company, value £4 14a 9d; also a quantity of ladies' novelties, 3s, the property of Thomas Short, on or about the •2-lth inst. Tho prisoner appeared very much depressed, and seemed to feel her position very keenly —Mr A, W, Gould appeared for ths prisoner, '. and said the woman was suffering under mental affliction, scarcely knowing what sbudid. She was respectably connected, and got her living by vending lace. He would plead guilty to all the charges, under tho circumstances, relying on the leniency of the Court.—Tho Bench said the ca6e in which tho amount was £4 14s 9d was an indictable one, and evidence must be first taken before the Bench could dispose of it.— Edward Hall deposed that he was a draper's assistant in the employ of the Melbourne Company on tho evening of the 24th. Did not sell any goods to the prisoner on that day. The costumes and boaded cape before tho Court woro the property of the Com pany ; also, the sun bat, and other goods enumerated in the list, estimated.yaiue, £4 14s 9d. The goods were taken from the door ; at closing timo they were missing. By Mr Gould: No ono in tho shop had taken them in. They belonged to the ladies' department.— Constable O'Brien ar rested tho prisoner in Wyndham-Btreet on another charge. The goods weie in ber possession, wrapped in a shawl. Hebok her to the station, where Bhe admitted that she had pilfered the goods from shops, In answer to the Bench, prisoner expressed a wish that sho might be dealt with in a summary manner. Tbe prisoner stated that she lived in Seafield Road. Hor husband was in London, Sho was a lacemaker; made tho liof Dy night and sold it by day. She could not account for her conduct in taking tbe things.—Lucy Martin, sister of the accused, said that for some time before Christmas her sister, had worked from daybreak until midnight. She had no children. She recently came from England,and need not havo worked so hard; she had all that she needed.—Sergeant Pratt said he. knew nothing against the accused. Tho things wore all taken on tho samo evening while prisoner was pass ing along tho street. Tbe Bench care fully considered tho cases, and, although she might havo beeD suddenly tempted in one instance, thero were four distinct charges against her, Sentences, 7 days oach, or ono month with hard labour. .

ABBOTT'S OPERA HOUSE.

Mr George Carroll in "The Smwy South,"

This highly-sensational drama is proving fl great "draw" at the Opera Hou£o, that placo of amusement holding another very largo audionco last evening. The abounds in situations of dosp dramatic in: terest,and it is, on the whole, an admirable portraiture of Australian back-blocks life, with, of course, a glamour of romance cast over it. The performance last night-left nothing to bo desired. It had. been an nounced that Mr Abbott would present Brown, tho winner in the Auckland Cap, with a full set of racing gear. As the jockey did not turn up, tho presentation h«d to De postponed,

Onehunga Borough Council.

The Council mot last evening at 7.30 o'clock. Present: His Worship the Mayor (Dr. W. G. Scott), Crs. Clark, Hill?, BtW"; son, Sheldrick, Tapp. Hill, Webb, Yates, and James. It was agreed to pay the £15 originally voted for constructing the Rifle Range, upon the ceitificateof ColonelLyon that tbe works wero suitable for that pur pose, notwithstanding that the WWP Engineer had not passed same, The out ward correspondence was read ap proved. A letter from the Under-Secretary for Public Works was read, stating that the date for handing over we maintenance of the main road w,w» local bodies had been further deferred. It was agreed to reinsure the Council tnani ber and contents for £100. The Town Clerk was instructed to demand payment from Mr Hollis and from Messrs Rowe ana Adams of arrears of rent due by am « lessees of the Military Parade reserve and tho Recreation Ground reserve respeeuvw. • On the motion of Cr. Yates, the Town Clerk was instructed to mako »R_M«|?° for payment of the subsidy accruing to tne borough under tho Local Bodies Fma-oceß and Powers Act. Cr. Clark moved that.the tenant of tho Domain reserve be auectea w remove any cattle grazing thereon ortn with. After considerable diBCUBBion, A WM agreed that tho Racing Club -W»£jE empowered to bold races, and charge tor admission thereto, three days in the year, upon tho Recreation Ground reserve . xm Town Clerk was instructed to procure a copy of Badger's Local Government Guide aJ_R-tepay_rs' Manual In *^i au application by Mi: Denize fa:.wg propo^d work near his property inVic oria-street, and for which heofferedg pay half the cost, it was <£«*s£s& tho first instance the »t'??"/.'f{-t n i ie j|. inspect the road and «^* Mffi Cr. Robinson was apP°-?. ted. t n ° <<Zl Sf, cheques operating on the bwoughwn Several notices of motion were given, a the meeting adjourned,

b THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 1885.



Net Rail- Charge on way Earn- Public ings. Debt. Victoria £922,21.. £1,215,070 New South Walos ..850,525 1,071.(60 Queensland ..264.428 709,265 touth Aus- tralia ..201,978 606,731 WejternAus- tralia .. 61 33.6G0 Tasmania (loss) .. .. 9,262 137,899 New Zea-

Diltoronoe to be supplied. £292,856 2*30.511 44 (.837 401,756 33 496 137,161

land .. .. 106.140 1.099.761

1.293,021



Charge on Ratio to Ratio ta Rev Publio Dobt. Total Re- from (.'us- less net Rail- venue, less toms Duties way Earnings. Railway and other aa above. Revenue. Taxation.' £ Victoria 29_,S_0 7« 12.0 Now South Wales 220,511 1.(1 10 3 Queensland 1U.837 21.S - 10 S South Aus- tralia .01.758 28.6 71.8 Western Australia 33, UV. 12.1 26.3 Tasmania 137,161 27,1 39.8 New Zea- land 1,293.6!. 18.6 69 2



HL. POSSBNNISKIB, • Merchant Tailor and Importer, SHORTLAND - STREET, AUCKLAND, Announces the Completion of his SPRING. AND SUMMER STOCK, Xx S.s. Arawa, , To which he invites an early Inspection. The Trade supplied at prices a little — above oost. PILSENER LAGER BIBS FROM THE , KAIB.tR BREWERY. Scte Agents for New Zealand— SEEGNER, LANGGUTH & 00., FIRTH'S STORKS, ALBERT-STREET. AUCKLAND. GEO. MoCA UL. Wellesley-street East, GALVANIZED IRON WORKS __ COLONIAL OVEN MANUFACTORY. PLUMBERS, BUILDERS, CONTRACTORS, _-» H.orkkeepers Are Informed that GEO. McCAUL, of Thames, HAS TAKEN OVER THE BUSINES3 LATELY CARRIED ON BY J. L. KEAN, And being a Dlroot Importer and Purchaser for Cash, Is prepared to Supply all Business Material at Lowest Rates. Awarded Three First Prizes tor Colonial Ovens, Comigatod Tankß, Lead-headed Nails and Washers, Spouting, and Lead-edge Ridging. GEO. MoCATJL, i MANUFACTURER AND IMPORTER, ! WKtj.Esrj_Y-STRi.ET East, AUCKLAND, and, Brown and Davy streets, Thames. -TUSEASES OF THE EYgl, EAR, j -*-7 AND THROAT. DR. A CHALLINOR PURCHAS i Iter bo consulted dally at his Residence, Pitt-' •treet; and at— Tffl toaUBH -HAEIUOT, QW_-N.BTB__T ._Ote ; HAßtM*_S).lrom 2 to3p.m. ___ _S__UMftmtoK-w"™nre's), jg^ * U^*,^B«u».l«_n,-)toll___ ________ . ■ -



DISEASES OF THE EYE, EAR,; THROATS AND CHEST. DR. WILKINS, CONSULTING & OPERATING SURGEON lla at his Surgery for General and Special Practice all morningsand afternoons. Sunday, 10 to 12 30. Charges moderate. 17 years at London and Colonial Hospitals. Adjusts Spec tacles to sight. Consulting Rooms, Queen street, (opposite Shortland-street), Auckland. V\ R. HUXTABLE, DISEASES OF THE EYE AND SPECIALIST IN THROAT AND EAR DISEASE, Formerly at Mackenzie's Eye Infirmary, and lately from the Hospitals of London, Paris, and Vienna, Having returned to Auckland, may bo consulted at King & Sons', Qneen-Btreet, daily, from 11 to 12 o'clock. Private Residence : Ponsonby Road, near corner of Lincoln-street. G. BARTLETT, CHRONOMETER • MAKER AND JEWELLER. A largo Stock of Ladies' and Gents' Gold and Silvor Lever Watches of superior finish, v new and well-assorted Stock of Gold Brooches, Ear rings, &c, Ladies' and Gents' Gold and Silvor Alberts. Wedding Rings, Engagement and Dress Rings, Gents' Signet Rings, K'eotro Plato, Marble Clocks, So., Gents' English Loveis, at £3 10s ; guaranteed. 154, Quoen-stroot, Established 18G2. TX7" P. HUBBARD, C.E., ARCHITECT AND SURVEYOR. Wator Supply and Drainage Specialties. 62, Queen-atroet. riHRISTMAS k. NEW YEAR CARDS, THE LATEST DESIGNS. Beautiful Floral Albums, Desks. Writing Cases, Card Cases, Nice Selection ta Bibles, Prayer Books, Birthday and Gift Books. AT VERY MODERATE PRICE 3. HY. A. COLSAN, Stationer and Bookseller, Vlotoria-street.



WEAK EYES.—A Treatise on the Optical Diseases of tho Eye and their results, tho Use of Spectaoles and tho Modo of Manufacture, Anatomy and Physiology of the Kyo. the CaußO ot Deafnesß, by T. R. PROCTER, Oculist Optician, Christchurch. N._. Free by post, or by applying to T. R. Pbocter, 3 doors abovo Theatre Royal, Vlotoria-Btreet. Mb T. R. PnociKß's present visit Doing about to ter minate in Auckland, all those requiring his aid should not 1030 this opportunity. riKAND CASH SALE. A} _ 000 WORTH OF DRAPERY AND £,_,wvv CLOTHING, AT HALF PRICE.



I. FER__ANDEZ, DRAPER, NEWTON, Having purchased a large portion of Messrs L. D. Nathan'B and Co., Stock, af a very heavy discount, he is enabled to offer some ot the greatest Bargains ever known in Auckland, which the following Price Li9T Will Show :— Men's Strong Tweed Summer Suits, complete, 255; usual price, 425. Men's Summor Tweed Trousers and Vest, 12s Gd : usual price, 20s. Men's Strong Tweed Trousors, 7s 6d; usual price. l_j Gd. Men's Coloured Moleskin Trousers, 4s Gd; usual price, 5s lid. Men's Strong Working Shirts, lined backs, Is 6d ; usual price, 2s Cd. Men's best quality, Long Silk Coats, 15s 63; usual price, 22s 6d; Silk Helmets, to match, 6s lid. worth 12a 6d. Men's Felt and Straw Hats, from Is 6d each, the cheapest and best stock in Auckland, see window; evory Hat marked in plain flgares. Boy's and Youth's Clothing in great variety at halt price. Als •, extraordinary Bargains in Drapory and Millinery, every article guaranteed much c_eapertnan Queen _trect prices; price list in future issue. Toys and Fancy Goods for Christ mas, presents at just a quarter the usual price. NO PUFF. GENUINE FACTS. COME AND SEE. FERNANDEZ, DRAP_R AND CLOTHIKR, KARANGA HAPE ROAD, NEWTON. TRAMS PASS THE DOOR.



•CI S S. S. COPTIC. MILNE AND CHOYCE Have just received by the Coptic Nine Cates of Novelties fcr the present f~4 season, alloflhe very latest yJ London Styles, in- I*-** eluding: r* LADIE3' TRIMMED BONNETS AND © HATS. EQ CHILD'S AND MAIDS' TRIMMED © BONNETS AND HATS. UN I RIMMED BONNETS AND HA IS. C^ CAPS, in Mob and Old La*' ies'. FLOWERS AND FEATHERS. ____ PERACHUTES (newest style ). hjT LACES AND NETS of eve.-y de3orlp -i tion, from 21d to 2is fid per yard. || JER3EYB, COSTUMES. *»_: COLLARS AND COLLARETTES. BOYS' SUITS, incl-dlng the Scotch Tartan complete. -m/fII.NE AND pHOYCE



GO TO FOR BEDSTEADS CARPS.3 LINOLEUM PERAMBULATORS BEDDING SPRING MATTRES SES V _A\ TOILET WARE \T_\ FENDERS & IRONS \v<J*_ OFFICE FURNI \T>A TUBE * DINING ROOM AND SITTING ROOM f*\ DRAWING ROOM Vf^jV BED ROOM V" \ FURNITURE \\7A AMERICAN, \/A AUSTRIAN BENI \ J\ WOOD ~ \JA \£-A CHAIRS & STOOLS •V^Ol WARDROBES Ay»A SIDE BOARDS SV>\ CURTAINS yr BUNDS ,BLANKETS Vm&MV SHEEX3 HOUSE WW*® QUEEN-STJIEEIP, v ■"•"'•■*"•, ' HOUSE REQUISITE. AUCKLAND,



TTOUSEHOLD riOAL,' 21s PER TON (For C.vsn, on Ordbrino) WHANGAREI COAL MINING COMPANY. KING, WALKER, & CO., Agents (next Waitemata Hotel). T> E S T VALUE WILLIAM R. ABRIDGMAN'S. 500 dozen Coats's be_ Sewing Cotton, 2CO yards, Nos. 10 to 24, Is per dozen; 250 dozen do., 100 yds, Nos. 20 to 50,2 a 6d dozen; 13j Pairs Long Lace Curtains from 2s 6_ pair ; CrcWdson's Calico, Is 3d dozen ; Horrock's, 2s lid dozen ; Ginghams reduced to 43d, worth 8d; 25 Pairs Long Muslin Curtains, half price, to clear; splendid Black Silk, 4s lid, worth 6s; large and we 1-assorted stock New Dross Goods; Sateens, from 8d; Fancy Dress Goods, 6d; Lustres, 43d; Honeycomb Quilts, 3s 9d and ss. splendid value; largo variety Muslin-work Embroidery, from Ud yard; 20 Ladles' China Silk Ulsters, half price, to clear; New Frillings in variety. Feathers. Sun Bonnota; largo varioty Maida' and Ladieß' Aprons at cost to clear; Btrong Tweed for Boys' wear. Is Id ; strong Galat a Stripes, la lid, great bargains; really good Cotton Shining, 43d yard; nice assortment Ladies Lace Capos and Dolmans, cheap; 144 Mon'a Oxford Shirts, 2a lid, worth 4a 9d; Men'a Pagot Coats, 8a 9d, worth 20a; Men's Summer Coats, from 2s 9d; large assort ment Men'a and Boys' Straw Hats, troin 6d; arge lot Job Bosiery to bo oloared at a heavy discount; Mon's White Shirts, from 2a lid; good stock; cheap olothing. Patterna free by poat. Freight paid on parcels over 20a. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, 283. UPPER QUEEN-STREET. W. 8. Laurie * C° Have for Sale— 170 Tons Bonedust 250 Tons Island and Peruvian Guano 200 Tons Suporpliosphate of Limo Sulphato Ammonia Nitrato of Soda 100 Bales Cornsacks 60 Tons Blaok and Barbed Fencing Wire 60 Kegs Staples, Pins, and Rollers SEBD3-viz„ White and Red Clover, Aleyke, Timothy, Cowgrass, Cocksfoot, and Rye grass, Turnip, etc. PricbS and Samples on application. JDUSTOMS STREET. AUCKLAND.



ARINK! nRINKII BROOKES & COS CHA M P ACNE HO I' BEE R. No other Hop Beer made by the fame process, and tone bo genuine as BROOKES & (.'O.'d. Now appliances to supply the increased demand for Olir* SPLENDID ISEER. Beware of false imitations bearing a similar mark. Sco that BROOKES & CO. is on every label. Christmas Hampers Packed in all sized Cases.



Our Beer isproduoed in quart bottles, and three and five-gallon kegs (guarantees). BROOKES & CO., CHAMPAGNE HOP BEER WORKS. Jervois Road, Ponsonby. Telephone 380. Office hours from 9 a.m. till,, p.m T, & H. COOKE are now selling Croquet Chairs, Folding Canvas Chairs, and Verandah Blinds, at greatly teduced rates. T, & H. COOKE havo just received, ex Coptic New Patterns in Brussels and Tapestry Carpets; also, Wool Mats and Rugs. T. & H.^OOKE have just opened a lot of f very superior Austrian Bent-wood Cane Chaira, Folding and Rocking Chairs and Lounges. T. & H. COOKE have on sale, Perambu lators, with Bicycle Wheels and Rubber Tires. T. AND JH, COOKE, FURNITURE, BEDDING, AND CARPET WAREHOUSE, JUNCTION OF QUEEN AND GREY STREETS, AUCKLAND. rpOWLER & WILKINBON, **- ARCHITECTS, SURVEYORS, AND ESTATE AGENTS, Exchange Chambers (ground floor), DURHAM STREET EAST, AUOKLAND.



Plans prepared, Builders' Quantities supplied, and Accounts adjusted. Loans negotiated, Valuations undertaken, and Estates managed for absentees, &c. Numerous Properties tor Sale, In all parti ol Auckland and Suburba. S. C. H A L L HAT AND CAP MANUFACTURER, SHIRTMAKER, HOSIER. AND GENTLEMKN'S MERCER HATS AND CAPS OF EVERY DESCRIP TION MADE TO ORIWR. KARANGAHAPE ROAD, AUCKLAND. 8.C.H.. having made arrangements with Messrs Fenton and Co., of Queen-street, for the manufacture and supply or tho whole of his stock, is enabled to adduce the name ot that well-known firm as a GUARANTEE for the excellence and quality of his goods.



KARANGAHAPE ROAD, NEWTON, AUCKLAND. SPECIAL RANK HOLIDAY. Pursuant to the terms of tho Banks and Bankers Act, USO, and the Banks and Bankers Amendment Act, 1882, SATURDAY, the Second day of January. 1836, is hereby appointed a Special Bank Holiday at the Offices of the un dermentioned Banks in Auckland: For THE UNION BANK 0? AUSTRALIA (LIMITED), F. MOORR, Acting Chief Oflicer for New Zaaland. For THE BANK OP AUS TRALASIA, E. W. MORRAH, Inspeotor. For THE BANK OF NEW SOUTH WALES. W. G. Riiind, Inspeotor. For THE NATIONAL BANK OF NEW ZEALAND (LIMITED), W. DYMOCK, Inspector. For THE COLONIAL BANK OF NEW ZEALAND, Henry McKenzie, Acting General Manager For THE BANK OF NEW ZEALAND, D. L. MtTRDOCH. General Manager. Auckland, December 28,1E8\



Mr Labouchere, M.P., who enjoys the confidence of tho Irish party, has made public a soheme for the creation of an Irish parliament, which, he says, would satisfy Mr Parnell. It provides for partial nomination of members by the Crown, a Customs union with England, a Viceroy having powers of veto, and the re cognition of the right of landlords to com pensation for displacement. I-Ve have no assurance as to how far Mr Labouchere is warranted in pledging the Irish leader in this matter, but the scheme is probably put forward as another Radical feeler to draw the Grand Old Man and his followers. The scheme as outlined, if authorised, shows that Mr Parnell is disposed to accept any moderate compromise, -



Residents in streets of Alma Place, in which the levols have not been fixed, aro re quested by advertisement to meet iho Ward Members and City Engineer at the Ponsonby Hall this evening, at half-past seven o'o ook. __c meeting: was adjourned from last week. We havemuch pleasure in reminding our readers that Row'solu established grocery store' Viotoria-atrcot, is ucdoubtedly ihe place for a good Christmas ham or a pound of genuine tea. -[_I>VT.] You Can be Happy if you will stop all youi doctoring yourself and families with oxpensive doctors or cure-alls that do only harm, and use Nature's Bimple remedies for all your ail ments, you will bo woll and happy and Bave great expense. Tho greatest remedy for this. the great, wise, and good will toll you, is Hoy Bittters. See.