COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &c., To-night.

Opera House D..rr..h'J Company of Solcctcd Artists", " Sunny South," 8. Theat.t'o Royal-Viuioty Entertainment. 8. Meeting of Institute of Architects. 8. Lome-street Hall-Debate, Messrs Aldrldgo and Walker, 7.30 C Lodge St. Andrew-Freemason;,' Hall, 7. Working Men's Club-General Committee of Eight Hours' Demonstration, 7.

Auction Sales To-morrow.

J, H. Hamer—Furniture, Parnell, at noon, ■ B. Tonics and Co.-Tetra Cotta Ware, 11. Gabriel Lewis-Fancy Loathcr, &c, 11. R, C. Greenwood-Caledonian Sports Privi eges, 11. John Reid and Co.—Land, 12. Hunter and Nolan—Fat Oxen (Junction Yard.), 1. B. Arthur-Boat, Noon. Vailo and Bradley—Furniture, etc.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Malls will close as undor :—

Tms Day,

ForGisborno Napier, nnd South, por Maitai.

at i 1 rj. For Ruesoll. Kawakawa, Herd's Point, Wanga-

roa. find Mongonui. por Wellington, at 5 p.m. For Tauranga, Rotorua, and Opctiki.por Clars-

man. at 5 p.m. For Whitianga. Upper Mill, and Tairua, por

Argyle. at 5 o.m. For Wangarel Heads. Parua. Waipu, Wangarei' and Kamo, por Waitakl, at fl p.m. For Mangawai and Kalwaka, per Ruby, at 5

p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m,

Tuesday, December 29. For Thamos. per Rotomahana. at 7 a.m. For Waiwera. Kawau. Omaha. Matakana, Mul let Point, and Lower Matakana, per Roso Casey, at 10 a.m. Per Te Anau as follows :—

ForChlna, Japan, Continent of Europe &c„3 p.m. | For Russell, Kawakawa, Australian Colonies, and United Kingdom, via Suez and Brindlsi or Naples, for letters,. &c. specially bo pre paid and addressed, at 1 p.m. For money orders, registered lottors, and nowspapers. at 3 pm. Late lettors for Sydney and Melbourne, only, at 1.20 p.m. United Kingdom mail duo In London on February 10. For Whangarei Heads, Parua, Waipu, Whan garei, Kamo, and Margapal.pcr Macgrcgor, at ii a.m. Wednesday, December 30. For Port Chalmers and Dunedin, per Arawata, at 1 p.m. Thursday, December 31. For Friendly and Navigators' Islands, Tahiti, and Rarotonga, por Janet Nicoll, 5 p.m. Tuesday, January 5. Per Alameda as follows :— For Navigator islands, Sandwich Islands. United States of America, Canada, British Columbia. Central and South America, and British and Foreign Weat Indies, at 1 p.m For United Kingdom and Continent ot Europe, at 1 p,m Money orders. 10.30 p.m. Registered letters and newspapers, at 11.30 p.m. Lata letters, boating an extra fee of six pence in addition to tho postage, will be received by the Mall Agent on board the stoamer up to the time cf sailing, This mall will be duo In London about Feb. 10.

Signed* S. B. BIS 3, Chief Postmaster, Chief Post-office. Auckland.

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

Sunset.—This evening, 7.16. Sunrise.—To-morrow morning, US. Moon's Age.—Last Quartor, 2!Mi, 01a m,

HIGH WATER.

Auckland-This evening, — ; to-morrow morning, O.2'J. Manukau Hkads-Tlusevening, 2.10; to-mor row morning, 3 0. Kaipara Heaub-Tlils oven'ng, _ 10! to-mor row morning, 1.9,

ARRIVALS.

LASr EVENING. Herald, e.s., Savory, from Greymouth

TO-DAY. Te Anau, s.a„ Mcintosh, from South

DEPARTURES.

TODAY. Janet Niccol, s.s., Huttoa, from tho South

STEAMERS TO ARRIVE.

Enterprise, from Thames, to-morrow, 5 p m. Kaikoura, from Plymouth, via Port Cnalmeis,

about January 10 Coromandel, Jrorn Coromandel. tomorrow,

5 p.m. Janet Nicoll, from South, early Rotomahana, from Thames, to-inorro;v, 1 a.m. [For projected departures soe shipping ad vcrtlsomonta and mall notices.]

Inwards Coastwise.—Spitfire, from Russell, with 51 tons coal; liana, from Tairua, with 2j,oo.fttimber; Nelii,.% from Whungapeuu, with ai.COMc Umber.

Outwards Coast-wish. — Terarawa, for Tairua; Mana, for Tairua; Ghost, lor Manga wai i Waitemata. lor Mangawai.

H.M.S. Nel>on, whicli was coaling to-day, is expected Co leave for Wellington on Saturday nest.

Tho barque Coronilla is completing her load ing for Loudon. Mr Henderson, chief officer. ha 3 Bufllclontly recovered from his late acciient to be ablo to join his veßsel.

The barque May Queen has arrived at Oamaru from Nelßon to load wool for London.

The Nora atid Coquctto aro both loading at Dunedin for Auckland.

The barque Presto entered outwards to-day for Kaipara, whore she will load timber for Melbourne.

The Herald brought a valuable consignment of gold besides her oargo of coal from Grey mouth.

The s.e. Janet Nlcoll left Dunedin on tbe 21st, arrived at Lyttelton, 22nd ats p.m.. loft I2same night, arrived at Wellington, 23rd, 9 p.m., left at li a.m., 25th, errivod at Napier, 25th, !) 30, left same morning atlt a.m., arrived here at 2.30 p.m.today. Passengers, Saloon: Mrß Donald, Miss Sage, Miss and Master Donald, Nurse, and child, one steerage.

Tbe following are tho intended movements of the Union Steamship Company's vessels for the week, so far as this port ia concerned:—Today : The Taupo arrives from Timaru and leaves for Napier; tho Te Anau arrives from Southern port!); the Rotorua leaves Onehunga at 1 p.m. for Southern ports, and the Malta! leaves for Gisborne, etc., at 6 p.m. Tuesday: The Wai hora arrives from Sydney; the Te Anau leaves for Sydney, via RubscU. at 5 p.m. Thursday: The Arawata is due from Fiji, and leaves for Dunedin; the Waihora leaves lor Southern ports and Melbourne at noon. Friday: The Southern Cross arrives from Southern ports.

ARRIVAL OF THE TE ANAU.

The s.s. Te Anau, IGSO tons, Captain J. Mcintosh, arrived from Melbourne, via Hobart antl Southern porta, this lorenoon. Bho left Melbourne at 8.30 p.m. on 15th inst. Called at Hobart on 17th, Bluif2lßt, Port Chalmors 22nd, Lyttelton 23rd. Wellington 21th, and saUea again on 25th, at 7 p.m. Arrived at Nopler 2fith, at noon; left again at 8 p.m., and dropped auchor off Gisborne at 1.30 a.m. on 27th. Hove up, and proceeded at 9.35 a.m. on same morning, and arrived as above. Experienced oxooptionally fine weather throughout. Passengers—Saloon :Mr and Mrs Martin, Mr and Mrs Riohards and family (1), Mr, Mrs, and Miss Kniggie, Mr and Mrs Hhanaghan, Mr and Mrs Blake and child, Mrs Macrae,-Mrs St. Long, Misses Blkin. Ben nett, Powley, Laurence, Brown, E. Water worth, Geofford. Codey, K. Warner, Messrs E. W. Winkle, Slatter, Ritson, W. Howgato, Morris, G. T. Marshall, Fawoett, A. N. Gibbons, N. H. Barris, Faulknor, J. Strong. Guy and boo, W. G. Cato, Birch, Buxton, Maloolmson, T. Gray, Bacon, G. Reichardt, Peddle, Grant, Allan, J. Kawden. Marcrofit, A. Adams, Frank, Hunter, Captain Russell. Masters Gillies (2), L. D. Con, Jan G. Glassford, and 10 gteorage.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Itotorua, s,B„ Novllle, from the South

DEPARTURES.

liotorua, s.s., Neville, for the South Galrloch, b.s., McArthur, for Waitara

The s.B. Galrlooh left for Waitara at 1 o'Uock to-day, with 20 tons general cargo, and a number of passengers,

The s.B. Rotorua, from the South, brought the following passengers: Rev. and Mrs tfeatty, Hon. and Mrs Strutt, Mr and Mrs Strangen, Mr and Mrs Talte and family (G), Mr and Mrs Baker, Misses George (3), Teats, Campbell, Mo- Laughlan, Mesdames Borland, Neale, and Webster. Captain Turner. Messrs W. Hodgson, T. H. Dodson, J. Watson, P. W. Shakespeare, A. Temptlst. W. A. Carru there, Wilaon. Knight. Morrison, Myers, Lorrle, Check, Buynor, Col heck, Potts. Hughes, Campbell, Mcßlwain, Gilby, and 48 steerage. She left again for tho South at 1 o'clock to-day, with cargo and passengers.

KAIPARA SHIPPING.

Kaipaba Heads, thia day.— Sailed: Class man. The Diroy Pratt has gone from Port Albert to Wairoa to assist in raising the Tangihua.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

' TJ.OTUJI'BWB, Deoember 21.—The New Zealand Shipping Company's Tongariro left this morn ing for New Zealand.

London, Deoember 20.—Tho homeward De cember Australian mails arrived at San Fran cisco yesterday.

London, December 23.—The Australian mails per the Orient Co.'s Cuzco. dated Melbourne November 13, were delivered to-day via Naples'

Adelaide, December 27.-Tho Messagerios Marltimes s.s, Sydney arrived here yesterday afternoon.

Mulboubnb, December 25.—The Tarawera arrived last night from New Zealand.

Pobt. Chalmers, this day.—At the Heads Taranaki, ship, from London,

Bluff, this day.—The b,s. Manapouri arrived at i a.m. Saloon passengers, for Auokland: Miss Benjamin, Kirkwood, Miss Walsh, Messrs Walsh. Solway, Rearden, Mufflkia, Marsden, Muschially, Russell, and Mrs Kirkwood.

Successful Whaling Cruise. Russell, this day.—Arrived, Sotday, 2 p.m.: Whaling barque, Triton (Oapt. Chllds), from a cruise. This vessel has done very well since leaving here last April, having taken 200 l»rrelB menu oil, 350 barrels whale oil, and PQOlbs oi! whalebone.

Notices to Correspondents.

Dispute —Tho mosquito, liko all tho gnat species, lays its eggs on the surtaco of stag nant water. The larvie aro in appearance small wornillko creatures, without feet, but capable of swimming nnd diving wilh great activity, by means of minuto hairy looking fins, growing from the sides of tho body.

Marriages.

BLAIR-CRAIG. - On Decombor 23. at SI. James's Presbyterian Church, by tho Itov. It. F. Macnicol, Robert Tannahill Blair to Heesio. eldest daugher of David Craig, Wairakau, Te Aroha. PURDY-HONEYCOMBE.-On December 21, at the rosidonco ot the bride's lather, Rooky Nook, by Rev. H. Bull, J. Purdy to Mary, ilfth daughter of Nicholas llonoyoombe. Both ot Auckland.

Deaths.

ALLAWAY.—On December 26, athisresidenco, Gladßtone-3treot,NewtonEa^t,JosapliThomaß Allaway; aged 13 years. Ab3cnt from the body, prosent wilh the Lord. The funeral will leave his late residence to morrow (Tuesday), at 1 p.m. BARTLEY.-On Docember 26, at Centro-stree\ Freeman's Bay, Sarah, the Infant daughter of Patrick and Ellen Bartley ; aged 8 weeks.

HATFIELD.—On December 2G. at 61, Grey ftreet, after a severe and protracted Illness, William Hatfield ; aged 12 years. HINE3.-On Deoomber 21, Catherine, the be loved wife c£ Michael Hlnes, and eldest daughter of William MoEvo/, Sussex-street, Newton; aged 27 years. HUNTER.—On December 28, at hor mother's residence. Captain-street, Ooohunga, Elizaboth Emily Hunter ; aged 18 years ; second eldest daughter ot the late Alexander Hunter, and grandlaughter of Mrs William Stceu Hunter, of Cromwell Boad, Belfast, Ireland, and granddaughter of tho lato Mr John Kit Dobson. -Belfast papoia please copy. The funeral will leave her mothers reel donee to-morrow (Tuesday), atlp.ni. Friends please accept this invitation.

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

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

MONDAY, DECEMBER 28, 1885.

Some of the Southern farmers are peti tioning Parliament in favour of Govern ment loans at a low rate bf interest to small farmers and graziers. At a meet ing of Southland farmers, held on Saturday, two of the farmers present at tacked the proposal very vigorously They said in effect that " the remedy lay in the hands of the farmers them selves. They should work like men, leave drink alone, and all would come right. Farmers who had obtained loans, instead of expending them on improvements, a large proportion had gone to swell the pockets of the pub licans. It would be a disgrace to the farmers to, petition Government. They were too much governed already. What they wanted was to be let alone. If they asked the Government to go to London to borrow for them, the mani pulation of the money would swallow up about half of it. The depression was partly caused by the determination of the Government to take as much as possible out of the land and everything else, and by exorbitant charges on the railways. Mr Allison said he had been pushed by one depression after another during twenty-two years' farming, although he had not borrowed at any rate of interest." There is a great deal of truth in these practical observations. High rates of interest are, no doubt, a serious cause of impoverishment to agriculturists ; but the burdens continually and in creasingly laid on the land by the Go vernment, the high and vexatious rail way tariffs, and the unwise expendi ture of money raised on mortgages for improvements, are quite as serious, and more easily remedied. Some of our best settlers have struggled along against higher rates of interest, and with poorer markets, from small be ginnings to positions of competence. But they have, as a rule, eschewed the money-lender and been satisfied to go along slowly but surely. Facility for getting credit is not often a good thing for a community. New Zealand suffers now much more from that cause than from any other. The curse of all borrowing, whether of the individual or the State, is the disposition it creates to live beyond one's income. Still, judicious improvements, executed at a cheap rate, will recoup the interest on their cost many times over, and the agricultural and pastoral industries .are I unquestionably those which now and I for many years to come must form the ;

backbone of the prosperity of New Zealand. If the State could with ad vantage aid by loans the improvement of the land, it would be fully warranted in doing so. The main objection to a scheme of State loans to farmers is the patronage, corruption, and certain mis management which would attach to it. At the same time, there are many things to recommend it —for one thing, it would tend to gradually make the State, instead of the private usurer, the landlord. It is an indirect movement towards land nationalisation without confiscation, and we can conceive of such a scheme becoming very popular with farmers who are now struggling under a load of debt at from eight to ten per cent, interest, and to whom a transfer of the mortgage at five per cent, would give an immediate and most welcome relief. The movement is one, therefore, that may in the future assume considerable proportions.

In the farming distiicts of Auckland, notwithstanding low prices, the settlers are, we believe, as prosperous now as they have ever been. The Waikato is sending between Soo and 1,000 fat cattle and 3,000 fat sheep to Auckland market every month, and this alone means a considerable distribution of money. If freights on the railway were more moderate, especially on bonedust and other substances for improving the land, the farmers might get along comfortably-—perhaps with out much money, but with an abun dance of everything they actually need, and a moderately promising outlook for the future. Encour agements of this kind are more legitimate and less dangerous than direct loans, and they will benefit all classes equally. The solution of the problem how to make farming pay lies, we believe, more in the maxims of in dustry, economy, cheap land, and cheap carriage, than in State loans to the farmer.

Opcnir.fi of the King Country,

Success appears to attend the policy of tlio present Native Minister, tlie Hon. John Ballance, in dealing with tlio natives of the King country. At Kawhia tbo Native Committee rocently rosolved that the whole of that country shall be opened to gold prospectors, who shall carry out their search in company with natives chosen by tho Committee; and in the event of gold boing dis covered tho Government are to co oporato with tho Committeo in making mining regulations. Tho Government havo beon prompt to take advantago of tho favourable circumstancos for carrying out gold prospecting in tho upper Mokau country, Kawhia, and Rangitoto. Warden Kenrick, of Thames, has nominatod Euro peans to act as prospectors, in company with natives and half-castes, and things aro moving favourably towards tho whole of the wealth of these rich districts being mado available. Tho opening up of now gold tiolds may be confidently expected, and will provo highly beneficial in providing addi tional oulets for labour; while by the regulations, which will secure the rights of the natives to a sharo of tho wealth pro duced, increased friendliness will bo culti vated between tho pakoha population, and thoso natives so long hold back from intorconrso with them. In tlio vory roccsses of the King Country nt tlio present moment workmen aro busily engaged on Trunk Railway contracts, and Maori and European aro work ing amicably side by sido. Tho practical fusion of race and community of interest thus attained aro vory gratifying to all who wish to sco tho splendid ro sourcos of tho North Islaind developed, and aro of greater valuo than the symbolical act of amity porformod tho other day by Wahanui in sonding to tho Native Ministor the regal tuiaha or symbol oi authority, or even that noblo deed of brotherhood whicli To Kpoti (the notorious ex-rebel and murderer) lately performed in giving sholtor, food, and other kind assistance to somo distressed aud wandor ing Europeans who reached his settlement. The native difficulty being thus at an end, this part of tho colony, under fair treat ment by the contral authority, should mako rapid progress in sottlomont, in in dustrial activity, and in general prosperity.

Prince Alexander, of Sorvia, is reported to havo made a triumphal entry into Soiia, tho capital of his kingdom. This is doubt less meant to mark the virtual conclusion of honourable peace, tho (Servians having withdrawn their troops from tiie pisitions which thoy occupied at Widdin. Another cablo message states that Osman Digna, tho loader of tho Soudan rebels, who was many months ago reported to be dead, is believed to bo still alivo, and is proparing to attack the Abyssinian forcos. It may be remembered that King John, of Abyssinia, had sent an army to the relief of the beloaguered garrison of Kassala, and it is doubtless in retaliation for such action that Osman Digna is assuming tho offensivo against them. Gholera is reported to have appeared at Venice and Trieste. It is reported from Calcutta that the British Expeditionary force in Burmah is continu ing its march northwards—tho Burmese in largo numbers tondering thoir sub mission.

Among our cablo news to-day is an item announcing the death of Dr. Marcus G. Beresford, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of Ireland. The deeoased prolate, who was bora in 1801, was nephew of tho Into Bishop of Kilmore, who was nephew of tho first Marquis of Watorford. The See of Armagh, to which he was translated in 1863, was worth £14,500 per annum. In addition to tilling that position, Dr. Beree ford was Lord Almoner of Ireland and Pre late of the Order of St. Patrick.

It is a matter of satisfaction that the water excursions on Saturday, which were taken part iv by such an immense number of persons, passed off without any accident of consequence. The steamers wero re turning with their living freights until eight or nine o'clock, and tho good spirits and cheerful countenances of the picnickers showed that thoy had passed a most pleasant day. A boat was damaged by an accident at St. Helier's Bay, and one of the occupants sustained injuries to his face by the robound of a rope, but othorwise there was nothing of consequence to chronicle.

The sum of £7,748 was passed through the totalisator at tho first day's racing of tho A.R.C. Summer Meeting on .Saturday. To say tho least, the arrangements woro very bad, and loud complaints were hoard on all sides of the bad management. The Committee of the Racing Club certainly need to see that somothing different to the existing state of things is arranged for the two remaining days of tho meeting.

During the offertory at St. Peter's Pres byterian Church last ovening Mr Burnoss sang the solo " Comfort Ye,' from tho " Messiah." It was capitally rendered, jfhe accompaniment was by Mr John Bennett, whose manipulation of the harmonium was very effective.

The free performance of " Tlie Messiah " lat the Choral Hall yesterday went splendidly,] under the able conductorship of Herr Carl Schmitt, solos, choruses and orchestral parts [ being all ad mirably performed. A 8 usual, there was an immense throng of the auditors, the building being packed in passages, corri dors, and stairs before the hour of starting whilo hundreds who arrived too late were disappointed. About a hundred people remained outside and enjoyed at once music and tho balmy air uuder the ;trees on the borders of tlie Metropolitan grounds. It is hoped that next year arrangements will be made for performing the oratoria in the open air, so that several thousands of people may share the pleasure of listening to such high-class rendering of this masterpiece of sacred harmony. The Grandstand erected for the Caledonian games would have accommodated many people yesterday, had the performance taken place in the open air.

Admiral Tryot and four officers of H, M.S. Nelson, accompanied by Col. Sir J. S, Whitmore and Mr Seymour George, pro ceeded to Cambridge by special train yesterday, en route for the Hot Lakes. They expect to return about Thursday next. The arrangements for the tour were made at Hayr and Go's Tourist Agency. Several officers of the Nelson hacf pre ceded the Admiral's party on Wednesday. Our Cambridge correspondent telegraphs to-day :—"Admiral Tyron and Sir George Whitmore arrived by special train yester day morning, and proceeded immediately in one of Carter's gonveysnees to the Hot Lakes." ' "■■ ''

lie tho totalisator arrangements on the Auckland course, "A Visitor" writes designating them a disgrace to so wealthy a Club. Our correspondent says that on Saturday last it was as hard to get a ticket as it was to get the money afterwards, and many people were so crushed and jammed in tho crowd, and lost so much timo in transacting business at the machines, that they took a solemn vow never to patronise the thing again. The whole affair is a ( left-handed muddle—tho machine-house is not half largo enough, nor are there half enough mon to manage the businoss. The Club makes a very handsome profit out of tho totalisator, and the public have a right to expect some thing iiko ordor and expedition. The machino-houso should be three times as long, and as many more machines Bhould be used. In the paying out, there should be a man and a boy at oaoh window—the man to tako tho ticket, and a smart boy to count tho sum for payment, or else there should bo twice as many pay windows. If a por tion of the totalisator house were in the saddling paddock, it would not only be a great convenience to those patronising tho Stand, but tend vory much to lessen the crushing at the machine. It is to be hopod that some better arrangements will be made at the New. Year meet;

Thore was a large attendance last even ing at the Christmas service in tho Theatre Royal. Mr VV. Brakenrig occupied tho chair. Interesting and instructive season able addresses wero delivered by Messrs A. Knight, W. R. Vines, and the Rev. J. S. Hill. Special hymns for the occasion wore sung by the evangelistic choir under the direction of Mr John Douglas.

Crowds of sight-seers were conveyed to H.M.S. Nolson yesterday afternoon by tho Notth Shoro ferry boats. The visitors were well-received on board, and wero shown everything of interost by both oilicers and rnon, all of whom displayed wonderful patience in explaining tho ueea of tho contrivances of modern warfare on board.

A number of persons interested in pros pecting the King Country for gold have during tho last few days called upon Mr J. Slator, architect, Queen-stroet, oilering subscriptions towards tho expense of iitting out a party, if a pormit could bo obtained from the Native Minister, An application is to be mado to tho Hon. Mr Ballanco, and this, it is hoped, will bo promptly acceded to, whon a party will bo got up without delay.

At the Theatre Royal on Boxing Night a variety entertainment was provided by a company of artistes, embracing Miss Kate Howards, Mr P. W. Fisher, W. H Cowan, Miss L. Loonard, and Mr W. L. DoLahunty. The bill comprisod songs, dancos, and an amusing comedietta, and proved highly entertaining. The attendance was rather small, but thero should bo a better turn out to-night, when the performance is to bo repeated.

The Auckland Rationalistic Association holds its annual meeting on Now Year's Evo at tho Forooter's Hall. There will bo music and i-hort addresses at 8, followed by dancing at 10 p.m.

An inquest was hold on Saturday after noon at tho Governor Browno Hotel boforo Dr. Philson (Coroner) and a jury (Mr Mc- Kenrick, foreman), on llio body of Kate Etnsdoan, a widow, whose suddon death was noticed in Saturday^ issue of the Star. The witnossos in the caso woro Mrs Kennedy, Mrs Conway, and Sergeant Don nolly. There woro no bruises on tho body, ond it was surmised that doath resulted from a fall downstairs whilo undor tho in fluence of drink, but no person witnessed tho accident. The jury found "That tho deseascd was found dead with a contused wound on her hoad, but thore was no evid ence to show how she mot with hor death,"

The victory of Nelson in tho Auckland Cup was tho greatest surprise that has taken place in tho history of the evont.and thoro was great oxcitemont on Saturday after tho race had boon doeided. Although Major tleorgo, Nelson's owner, bonotitod to somo extont by his victory (the colt having boon backedon his behalf at 100'stoS and 10), ho had some doubts as to his getting tho dis tance, and the son of King Colo loft tho paddock with tho odds of 10 to 1 against him. In the totalisator thoro woro only -IS invostors on tho winner, and ho paid tho handsome dividend of £50 17s for each i>2. Among thoso lucky enough to bo on Major Georgo's colt were two men of H.M.S. Nelson, who, just for tho sako of tho ship's name, put thoir money on, not knowing one horse from the othor.

To the Editor : Sir, —In your report of the meoting of the building trade on Wed nesday evening it is mado to appoar that Mossrs Malcolm and Price refused to meet us. It is duo to thoso contractors to say that thoy gave thoir word not to set any moro mon on bofcro the Now Year, and in the meantime thoy would talk tho matter over with the other builders.—Yours, &c, J. A. Pakkes, D.S., Devon-street.

Thoro was a largo attendance of the public present on tho Onehunga Domain Reserve on the afternoon of Christmas Day, when tho two local brass bands oacli por formed an oxcollont programme of appro priate airs, which woro well recoived. Great credit is duo to Captain Hulse and Bandmaster Huntor for the training that has ovidontly boen bestowed on their ro spectivo companies of instrumentalists, somo of tho selections givon on Thursday being very well oxecuted indeed.

Two alarms of fire woro rung out last night, but in neither case was thoro any serious conflagration. The first, about 8.30 p.m., was occasioned by children burning gorso near Franklyn Koad, but tho lire did not communicato with any building. The second alarm was threo hours later, and this time there was a narrow escape from a destructive fire. Mrs Harding, of tho Occi dental Hotel, saw smoke issuing from the roof of tho shop of Mr A. Eady, music sollor, Qucon-stroot, and tho alarm having been given by her, tho door was promptly burst open, and an incipiont lire, which had broken out in a box of rubbish, was ex tinguished boforo much damage was dono. It is not not known how the iiro origi nated.

Tho mission of the Kedemptorist Fathers was opened yesterday at St. Patrick's Cathedral, when thore woro largo audionces at all diets of worship. At High Mass ia tho forenoon tho Vory Boy, Father Walter McDonald was colebrant, and ho was assisted by Key. Fathers liaison, O'Noil, Hogarty (ltedemptorist), and Tuckwoll. Bishop Luck, who joined in tho procession with the other clorgy, gave a short address introducing tho miE.sioners to tho congrega tion. Vory Key. Fathor O'Farrell then preached tho oponing sermon of tho mission. At the evening service Rev. Father Hogarty expounded tlio Holy Rosary, and Roy. Father O'Neill dolivered an interesting and moving sormon. Tho mission sorvicos will be continued daily, commencing at C a.m. with mass and instruction. At 7 p.m. there will be evening devotions and instruction for tho labouring classes, and at 0 a.m. with macs and instruction. The offertories yesterday amounted to £40.

A lecture on "Tho Man Christ Jesus" was dolivercd yesterduy afternoon undor tho auspices of the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge by tho Rev Joseph Bates, of the Holy Trinity, North Shore. 1 here was a fair audience, tho chair being in possession of tho Rev. J. S. Hill. Mr Bates commenced his lecture by assuming tho genuineness of tho historical porsonago of Christ and tho Four Gospels of the Evangelists. The lecturer remarked upon tho moral beauty of tho Christ life; that Christ lived the lessons he taught; and that was the ideal Christian life, final and perfect in its characteristics. Mr Bates went on to show, in aecordanco with his convictions, that as the age advanced it would become more and more Chrißt-like.in its social, moral, and political principles. The lecture was listened to with marked attention, and altogether was an able and forcible defence of Christianity and the teachings of its Divine Founder. A number of questions were put and courteously answered, and finally, on tho motion of Mr Hill, seconded by Dr. Murray Moore, supported by Mr Thomas Walker, a hearty voto of thanks was unani mously given to tho lecturer.

Mr Joseph Thomas Allaway, a clork in the Post-office, died very suddenly at his residenco, Gladstone-street, off Symonds street, ou pSaturday evening. It appeared that deceased waß in hisußualhealth,and had partaken of his tea at six o'clock on Satur day evening, when he went outside with the intention of watering a few plants. Mrs Allaway who had occasion, owing to his being subject to sudden fits.to be very watchful of his actions, not seeing him moving about a few minutes after leaving the house, followed him into the garden and discovered him lying upon the ground. She raised an alarm, when somo of the neighbours came at once to her assistance, anaDrs. Lawry and Lewis were speedily in attendance, and pronounced Hie extinct. Dr. Wine has attended deceased for some years past, he being in precarious health from the after effects of an accident which occurred some twelve years ago, by which he received a severe shock to tlie nervous system. Dr. Wine having given a certifi cato as to the cause of death, Dr. Philson, coroner, does not consider it necessary to 1 hold an inquest, >

A CHAPTER OF DISASTERS.

(BY TELEGRAPH—PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Napier, this day. Bcsii fires are still raging in the Seventy mile Bush, and many settlors have lost all their grass Bced.

At Waipawa a lad was thrown from his horse and killed on Thursday night. _ On Saturday night Mr Newman died in a fit at Waipawa. He had been ailing for some time. About midnight on Saturday, Cottrell's tobacconist premises were discovered to be on fire, but the flames were put out with but little damage. Insurance, £1,000 in tho South British, and £250 in the National Office. An inquiry takes place this after noon.

Drowning in the Waikato River.

[by telegraph.—own correspondent.]

Cambridge, this day. Marion Skelton, a girl aged about 15 years, was drowned in the Waikato River on Saturday. She went in to bathe in compa__y with a younger sister, and was carried off by tho current. The police are searching for the body.

Fatal Tramway Accident.

(l!Y TELEGRAM!.— PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Christohurcii, this day. About 7 o'clock last night Louisa Morrison, a domestic sorvant, got off tho tramcar whilst in motion at the crossing Gloucester and Colombo-stroets. Sho foil undor the car, one of tho wheels passing over her loft thigh, which was brokon. She also sus tained a fracture of the pelvis, and internal injuries. No hopes of recovery are enter tained.

Natve Obstruction on Thames- Te Aroha Railway.

(l)Y TELEGRAPH. —OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Thames, this day,

Mr Wilkinson, nativo agent, arrived here

this morning to arrange matters with

Tukukino respecting tho stoppage of the railway eurvoy at Hikutaia.

OUR GOLDFIELDS.

THAMES.

[From Our Own Correspondent.] *""' This day. Gold Returns. .Vairoxgomai District.—The following tc lurns retorted Bold Iwcro banked this morning: New find, 333 ozs., IU dwt., from 320 trucks. Colonist, 52. ozs.; Galena, 221 ozs. Taupo District.—Harrison, proprietor of tho bullion cluim. Ilnishcd crushing for a return of —I'j ozs.

THE CARPENTERS' STRIKE.

Victoria Aroado Hands at Work

Again,

It will be gratifying to our readers to learn that the carpenters' strike is practically nt at end. The Committee of tho Socioty this morning interviewed four of tho contractors afloctod, viz., Jlessrs A. Maguiro, Ponk and Allan, A. Watson, and Malcolmson and I'rico. The throe former ngroed to gfve 10s por day, while Mossrs Slalcolmson and Price, who have to contract for tho Art Gallery, submitted thut thoy could not bo expected to pay 10s when mon oll'ored for 9s. As a result of tho arrangemont nrrived at, 45 hands rosumod work at the Victoria Arcado, undor Mr McGuire. Tho men are Btill determined not to turn to at tho Art Gallory until tho full wage is promised.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

Two Men Drowned at Tairua,

M>_ Sui-ekhs'tende-n't Thomson 10-day recoivod a tolegram from Constable Joyce, stationed nt Whitiangi, stating that two mon had beon drowned at Tairua, owing to tho capsizing of a boat on the bar. The bodies have been recovered, but their names havo not yet trnnepirod.

TABLE TALK.

Gkkat succossof "ThoSunny South." Bedomptorist " Mission" ab St. Pat rick's.

Groat preparations for tho Caledonian games.

Earthquake at Oamaru on Saturday night.

The weather keeps lino for the holidays. H.M.S, Nelson is to leave on Saturday next. •

New Zealand frozen mutton is fetching 4p].d to -lid in London.

Rev. Shirley Baker re-olocted Premier of Tonga.

Outbreak of liro on ship Soukar at Lyt telton ; damage slight. New Maori war canoe launched at Orakei on Saturday.

It should cut a dash at our next regatta. Chief Paul causod tha Union Jack to be floated on her stern.

Tho "King's Church" at Tongatabu, which has two spires, is to be furnished with an organ, tovver clock, and chime of bells.

Mr Grilliths, who was injured in the Taupo Coach accident, died from his injuries on Friday last. Tho venerablo King Goorge of Tonga gavo the concluding prayer at the recent prorogation of his Parliament.

"Happy Jack" is a prominent Salva tionist at Thames ; he is now charged with stealing £S from a person in a hotel there.

A horso bolted down Manukau Road, Parnell, yesterday afternoou, carrying behind him a rail to which he had been hitched: but the runaway was captured boforo any damage was done.

Debates in the Tongan Parliament are taken down in shorthand by the natives. Rev. H. Bull has put tho extinguisher on " Apostoliek " succession.

He declared yesterday that laymen were authorised to ordain clergymen.

.John Wesley, tho so-called "priest of the Church " pronounced apostolic succession "a fable which no man has proved or ever can prove."

Tho Government of Tongp are about to oroct at Nukualofa public library, reading room, hospital, museum, and pict'uro gallery. J. A. Fodder, soaman on the ship Piako, was drowned in Wellington harbour on Thursday laßt. Drink did it.

Arch Hill Road Board have accepted the tenders of E. Pascoe and Co. for works as follows : -Oxfore1-street, £254 ss; Russell street, £121.

VOLUNTEER NOTES.

Sweopstake Match,

A number of Volunteers assembled at the rifle range on Saturday morning for the purpose of firing a sweepstake match, They had, however, only completed the 200 yards, when the arrival of a number of Veterans intent upon class firing prevented the completion of the match. The following were the highest scores at the 200 yards range :— Webster (Artillery), 30; Parslow (Artillery), 29} Buchanan (Gordon), 28 j Taylor (Victoria), 27; Sterling (Guards), 27; Fairs (Vic toria), _ 26. As tho match could not be finished, it was decided to refund money and havo scratch matches at each range. Theso resulted as follows:— 200 yards, live Bhots; six highest were— Fairs (Victoria), 23 ; Parslow (Artillery), 23; Wooley (Artillery), 22; Buchanan (Gordon), 22; Fairs (Gordon), 21 ; Eose (Victorias), 20. 300 yards; five shots ; six highest — Nutt (Navals), 18; Webster (Artillery), 16; Parslow (Artillery), 16 ; Fairs (Gordon), 15; Mettam (Band), 15; Webster (Artillery), 14.

DESTRUCTIVE FIRES.

(IIV TELEGKAPH.—OWN OORBBSPOUDENT.)

Ciimsfciiuitcii, this day. A large grass lire took place near Harewood ltoad yesterday evening, and two cottages be longing to William Fraser and Michael Kolly were burnt down. No insurance.

Abotit 2 a.m. to-day a serious tire occurred at AVest Oxford. .Shannon's butcher's shop, Reeve's, chemists, Fisher's store, and cottages were burnt down. The damages arc £2,000, and the loss is covered by insurance. The fire bo gun in Channon's premises, and is supposed to lave been accidental.

The cottage at Sydenham, belonging to Hugh McEwan, burnt down on Saturday night, was insured for £70 in the London, Liverpool, and Globe office,

OPERA HOUSE.

Mr Georgo Darrell in "The Sunny

South.

PismiArs no moro favourable occasion for tho reappearance of Mr George Darrell in Auckland could have boon choson than Boxing Night, when the holiday fever is still strong on the people, and a crowded house is almost a certainty. The attraction on the present occasion was ex ceptionally strong,;and as a natural conso quence the house was crammed in every part. It ia now quite a number of years since Mr Darroll's last appearance on the stage in Auckland, and since then he has mado two visits to England. It is only natural to suppose that he Bhould have made steady progress in his profession during the interval, and that such was the case was evidenced by Saturday nights performance. The piece chosen for the opening night was the "Sunny South, from the pen of Mr Darrell, who has gained the reputation of being a play right of no mean ability. A resume of the plot has already been published by us, and a repeti tion of the sketch given is not neces sary. The drama is powerfully con structed, and depends more for its success upon sensational situations and scenic effects than on' literary merit. Apart from one of the scenes of the first act, where tho dialogue is protracted to such an extent that it becomes wearying, the play is sen sational throughout, and tho interest of tho audience is maintained without any strain, whilo the milder feeling is frequently in creased to a perfect fever of excitement by the reality of tho more striking situations. The scene of tho drama is laid on the Aus tralian goldiields, and amongst the sensations with which the plot abounds are a bank robbery by bushrangers, a rescue of prisoners, a burning hut and battle in the bush, a railway train in action, and a scene in which tho hero is tied to a tree and converted into a target by a rullianly assailant. What better material from which to develop striking tableaux it would be difficult to conceive. The leading part of Matt Morley, tho ad venturous horo of the drama, was imper sonated by Mr George Darrell, who gave a capital delineation of the bold Anglo-Aus tralian. The part was admirably adapted to Mr Darrell's stylo and capabilities, and, as may bo surmised, he acted with forco and power in the more exciting scones. Babs Berkeley, the dashing Australian girl, whose vocabulary comprised the most ex pressive terms and phrases of bush slang, received ample justice at the bands of -Vliss Annie Mayor, a lady of versatilo histrionic talents of no mean order. Mr George Forbes was exceedingly good in his original character of tho new chum Came, while Mr Joseph Raynor ably filled the role of Worthy Chester, an English gentle man. Ben Bremer, A Ropresentativo Digger, by Mr Harry Jerden ; Eli Grup, A Man on 'Change, by Mr J. A. Patterson ; Perfidy Pounco, A Alan of Business, by Mr Oily Deering ; and Dick Duggan, A Bushranger, by Mr J. P. AVest, wero all good impersonations, and tho samo remark will apply to Miss Mabel Tracey, as Clarice, Miss Uhrissey Peachoy as Rebecca Harris, and a host of subordinate characters. Messrs Oily Deer ing and Wost were recognised as old favourites, and wore accorded in a lessor degree tho warm wolcomo which greotod Mr Darrell. Tlio drama is splendidly staged, and tho sconery and effects are in overy respect consistent and appropriate. It is hardly necosaary to say that the per formance won tlio appreciation of tho audience, and that tlie fall of tho curtain was greotod by tumultuous applause. Tho piece should have a lengthy and successful rnn. This ovoning a jockey's saddlo, bridlo, whip, and spurs will bo presented to Mr W. Brown, tho rider of Nolson, on behalf of Mr H. N. Abbott.

The Australian Cricketers.

Programme of English Matches,

[SI'EOIAL TO MI.LIiOUKNE "Allli."]

London, Docombor2l. A mkbtinu of roprosentativo county cricket clubs was held this ovoning for tho purpose of arranging a list of matches to bo played against tho Australian olovon who are to visit England in tho coming eeason^ Complaint was made of tho inconvenience caused through tho previously-arranged county programmo having to be altered in order to secure vacant days for tho Austra lian matches, and tho tardiness displayed by tho Australian authorities was censured OnthemotionofLordHarris, the programmo now includes 28 Australian Eleven matches, i of which will be played at Lord's, and -1 at Konsington Oval. Amongst the engage ments are threo against All England, two against gentlomon players, and one against professional players. The latter havo moderated their demands as to tho share of gate money to bo handed ovor to them.

Threatened Native Trouble.

Titoltowaru's Visit to Whito Cliffs,

(BY TlXEtlßAl'ir.— I'IIESH ASSOCIATION. )

New Plymouth, this day. A uki'okt wbb in circulation in Now Ply mouth on Saturday that a fracas had occurred at White Cliffs between Tito kowaru's pooplo and tho polico. Tho " Herald's " Urunui correspondent, how over, furnishes tho following particulars of tho affair: -Titokowaru and his utti party, on arriving at Pukoaruhe (Whito Cliffs) on Thursday, campod his natives in their old spot near tho native settle ment. After pitching tents, all wont up t) tho A.C. camp, whoro Titokowaru made a speech, saying thoy wore going to stop there for tho night. The natives paraded about tho place, and then went back to thoir camp. About sundown a party of about 20 came back, and pitched a tent on a hill about 15 or '20 yards from tho block house. It was quickly pulled down by the civil polico, and tho natives were told that none of them would bo al lowed to camp there. The natives offered no resistance or violence, but immediately returnod to their camp, The party who pitched tho fonts are some of Mahuki's lot (Ngatimaniapoto)j who aro rogular To Whitites. Several of them walked into tho schoolroom at tho A.C. camp, but were ordored out.

Tho natives are on their way back to Parihaka. They wore at Waitara last night, and will probably pass through this town to -day.

SHOCKING FATAL ACCIDENT.

A Youth Trampled to Death by a

Horse.

A shocking fatal accident occurred at Papa kura on Thursday last, by which a young man named Arthur Fellows met his death. It appears that young Fellows, who is a eon of Mr Fellows, bricklayer, of Onehunga, had been in delicate health for eomo timo, and his father being engaged latterly on a contract at Papakura, to:k the youth over there with him for a change of air and scene. On Thursday, while Mr Fellows, sen., and an elder son were engaged at their work the former sent Arthur to a paddock close by to catch his horse for the purpose of fetching some water from the creek. The horse had a short piece of rope around its neck, which the unfortunate youth appears through some misojiance to have coiled around his wrist, and the horso becoming startled and plunging about, ho was thrown between its forelegs, where tho rope held him securely. Tho frightened animal at once dashed off, and before the father and brother, who were witnosses of his fearful position, could afford any assist onco, tho poor follow was trampled almost beyond recognition, his skull boing smashed in, and the slin torn off his face and arms. Life was, of course, quite extinct. An inquest was hold on the following day, when a verdict in accordance with tho facts was returned, Great sympathy is felt for Mr Fellows, who is well known and much respected at Onehunga. The deceased was a member of the Onehunga Rifle Corps, and was held in esteem by his comrades as a quiet, unassuming young man.

CABLEGRAMS.

[by electric telegraph—copyright.]

(special to press association.)

(Received December 28—10 a.m.) Tho Political Crisis in Franco.

London, December 27. —M. Jules Grovy, if • re-elocted President, will grant an amnesty to all political prisoners. It is believed that M. Brisson will reform tho

Cabinet.

Death of the Primate of Ireland,

Obituary: The Right Hon. Marcus G. Beresford, D.D., Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of Ireland, SI years of ago.

Mr Parnell's Parliamentary Fund.

London, December 27.—Mr Parnell has received a large remittance from America towards the Pailiamentary Fund.

Proposed Federal Mall Service.

London, December 20.—The Postmaster- General and First Lord of the Treasury have approved of the proposals of Mr R. C, Baker," of South Australia, for a federal mail service to the colonies, and tenders will, it is understood, shortly be invited.

Australian Federal Council.

Mr Frederick Napier Broeme, Governor of Western Australia, has not been allowed to sond a dclegato from that colony to attend tho Federal Council which is to bo held at Hobart.

["Age" Specials.]

Tho Conservative Policy.

London, Docomber 15.—Ah announce ment has been made that the Ministerial programme for the ensuing session to be opened next month will include a scheme for granting county governments in Eng land and Ireland. Taxation on Colonial Investments. With referenco to the demand which has been mado by tho Government upon the Banks for payment of income tax on colonial investments it is announced that tho banks have consented to deduct tho tax from sums payable to their clients. The re quirement of the iiovernment, however, that the agreement should bo retrospective has been abandoned by Government, The Sentence on Sheehan. London, December 25.—The trial of Wm. Sheehan, who was arrested in Now Zoaland some months ago charged with tho murder of several members of his family at Castle townrocho, County Cork, Ireland, has re sulted in a verdict of " Guilty," and ho has been sentenced to death.

It is intimated to Colonel Stanley that South Australia has declined to continue the subsidy towards the cost of maintaining a British protectorate over Now Guinea after July next.

Cable Charges,

London, Decembor 22,—Tho reduction in cable charges for press messages, which was expected to corao into operation at tlio commencement of the Now Year, will not, it has now beon decided, tako ofToct until March.

AUSTRALIAN.

Changes in the Victorian Ministry,

Meluoubne, December 26.—An article appoars in tho "Argus" today in which considerable changes aro foreshadowed in tho personnel of tho Victorian Ministry. Mr Service, the present Premier, is said to be desirous of retiring into privato life, and is expected to resign office. Mr Berry, the Colonial Secretary, will proceed to England as Agont-Goneral, Mr Murray Smith, who now holds that position, wi.hing to return to Victoria. Tho Hon. Duncan Gillies, Minister of Bailways, will probably succeed Mr Service as Premier ; whilo Mr Deakin is spokon of as tho coming Colonial Secre tary.

Australian Cricket Team.

A crickot match has Leon arranged for Now Year's Day between the Australian eleven who are aboutto proceed to England and a combined olovon, Tho team to bo sent Homo will in all probability be made up as follows : — Messrs .larvis, Goorgo Giflbn, Bruco, Horan, Palmer, Blackman, Garrett, Trimblo, Bonnor, Mcllwraith, Scott, Waltors, and Spofforth.

Cholera at Venice and Trieste.

(BY CABLE— COPYRIGHT.)

London, Decembor 27. Occasional cases of cholera have occurred in Vonice and Trieste.

THE SOUDAN REBELS.

Osman Digna Still Alivo and Kicking,

(keuteks teleuk.vms. )

London, Deoembor 27. It is boliovod that Osman Digna, who was stated to be dead, is still alivo, and is preparing to attack tho Abyeinnians.

BULGARIA AND SERVIA.

(IIV CAIILE-COI'YKIt.IIT )

London, December 27th. The forces have evacuated Widdin. Prineo Alexaader has made a triumphal entry into Sofia,

THE BRITISH IN BURMAH.

Further Progress of tho Expedition.

[BEUTER's TELECRAIIS.]

(Received December 2Sth-10.30 a.m.)

Calcutta, December 20. Advices from Burmah staW that the British expeditionary force which left Mandalay for Bhamo has arrived at Mutshoho, about 30 miles north of Mandalay. The British troops wero well recoived by the Burmose populace, who aro tendering their submis sion in large numbers.

THE SHEEHAN MURDERS.

Confession of tho Condomnoel Man.

(special to press association.)

London, December 26.

William Sheehan, who was convicted and sentonced to death for tho murder of his mother, brother, and sister, at Caetle townroohe, has confessed to ha-ing com mitted tho crime.

Mr Gladstone and Home Rule.

Excitement Among tho Orangemen,

f" Age " Specials Via Bluff.]

London, December 21, Mr Gladstone has announced that he will await the publication of the Ministerial policy before announcing his proposals on the Irish question. The members of the Orange body havo been thrown into a state of intoneo excitement by the rumoured intontion of Mr Gladstone to advocate the granting of a local Parliament to Ireland. They threaten that thoy will raise a civil war if the attempt be made to fulfil this policy. The Hon. Mr Goschen has announced his hostility to tho scheme. The "Daily Telegraph" this morning says tho statement made in the ''Times" on Saturday that Mr Gladstone had submitted to the Queen a plan for tho establishment of an Irish Parliament, and that Hor Majesty had reforred it to the Ministry, is unfounded. London, Decembor 22.—Mr Gladstone has specifically disavowed any intention to grant tho demands of tho Parnellite Party that Homo Rulo should bo granted to Ire land. Tlie Hon. Mr Childers and Mr John Morley then expreesed themselves as being favourable to tho scheme with which Mr Gladstone has beon associated.

FIRE AT THAMES.

(BY TELEUKAI'II—OWN COKR__.SrONI.ENT )

Thames, this day. A stoke at Warahoe, owned and occupied by Herbert Cooper, was destroyed by lire early yesterday morning. The damage is estimated at £250, and neither building nor contents was insured,

POLICE COURT.- This Day.

(Before Messrs R. W. Moody r 1. m, amlSu,,erl„,endent'rho m ysoC n \^o Ao , Drunk.—Fivo persons were ».„ •, drunkenness, °r0 Puni*ed for l^O. Act—Theresa Hands, who had .7 frequently convicted for variousi „wbb an was sentenced to three months' ;™ ?ces. Mont with hard labour "prison- Mrs WAKEHAM.-This person was „„„»., to appear in answer to a chares of ?.* Io drunkenness-RemandedlfoEwLk Larceny While in Drive p v Leary a very old offender, 'was nkf "J with drunkenness and disorderly n T ed -Fined £5, or seven days i-L^ UCt further charged with stealing a nS,* 88, clothing, value 50s, the proplrt v W ty °1 Lysaght, and remanded on Sl E 0 d. watd until Monday next. "flatter charge Ciibistmas FLowE ßS ._Matthew Mora*,, vendor of flowers, and Joseph effi ' bushman, wero charged with creS disturbance at an hotel iv Queen B twS " Christmas night-Sergeant Pratt £% 0n stables O'Brien and Christie gave ev i^ Morgan went into the hotef to wfe pose of his flowers, when Clarke sna?^ them and scattered them on tfi fl *ed Morgan asked for their value, IsTd SK" when he was struck by Clarke. - Clarke 7," pressed his regret at what had occurred' Ho simply came into town for a holiday !l As neither of the prisoners had been biZ thoCourt previously, the Bench listened t! their explanation, and with a word n f caution dismissed the ease. A Familiar Name-Wiu. Lawyer of Lome-street, was brought up on tw„ charges, viz., breaking four small P an 9 s n ? glass, and using indecent language toward Mrs Hubbard, the owner-Prisoner S tho damage was done under very M ovX ing circumstances. What about H» bucket of slops ?-Thc Bench decided to hear the prosecutrix—Hannah Hubbard deposed that she resided a few doors from the prisoner. She knew him by sight On Boxing night he walked to her door and made use of most affensive language with out cause. She did not retaliate but closed the door. Shortly after she went to tho back of the house and threw" out a bucket of water. Unfortunately, prisoner was in the yard, without her know ledge, and some of tho water went over him. Ho swore loudly, and said "he'd be if she should christen him with dirty wator," and smashed the win dow, cutting his hand considerably. Tho act was wilful, and the damage about 5j - A neighbour gave evidence as to the language used, but did not see the window broken. — Constable Russell arrested prisoner. He admitted the breaking, and only regretted that ho had hot broken Mother Hubbard's skull—Prisoner made a long but crudo defeoce to the effect that he was ono of Mrs Hubbard's best friends He touted for lodgers—Fined 10s and costs, and damage, 7s, or in default 48 hours'.

Christmas Greetings.—John Brown was charged with stealing a purse, containing the sum of 3Cs, on the 25th inst Prisoner pleaded notguilty. - J osephHayes.labourer doposeel tbas on tho eve of Christmas he met tho prisoner near Vulcan Lane. Knowing tho prisoner.ho said, " A Meiry Christmas^ Jack," to which he replied, "The Eama to you, Joey, my boy." Prisoner followed him pretty closely to the Pacific Hotel, They went inside, and prisoner shouted drinks to several men present. Saw him take a crown-piece from a puree. He im mediately recognised the purse, and, put ting his hand in his pocket, missed his property.—Dotedtive Twohey arrosted tho prisoner. Soarcned him in the presence of Detective Jones. Found a tobacco pouch upon him besides tho purse, containing 3s 7d, also a pocket-book and notee. Hayes had previously given a minute and correct description of the things before prisoner was in custody,—Prisoner, who had fre quently been convicted, was sentenced to three months' with hard labour,

Remanded. — Charles Fisher, charged with receiving a watch and chain value £20 from John Crabb, knowing them to havo beon stolen, the property of John Farrell, on the 23rd instant; John Crabb, charged with stealing tho same, also with stealing a silver watch and chain value £13, from the person of Thomas Lyford, were remanded until Thursday, on* the applica tion of Sergeant Pratt, Mr Farrell being at tho Thames.

TREAT AT THE HOSPITAL.

The inmates of the Hospital were not ex cluded from the enjoyments of Christmas time, but were duly considered by sympa thising friends. The wards were taste fully decoratod with flowers, evergreens, and bunting. The morning opened very cheerfully, and the Lady Superintendent and nurses gathered in the hall and sang several hymns and carols with sweet effect. At a quarter to 10 o'clock the Rev. J. K. Davis, M.A, held a short service, assisted by members of St. Sepulchre's choir, who sang the selected Christmas . hymns. A good dinner was provided at noon, and the inmates partook with ploasurable relish. In the evening the projected concert was hold in No. 2 Ward, when the following programme was repre sented :—Nurses, glee, "Men of Har lech ;" Nurse Baker, solo, " Martha,;" Nurse Dean, song, " Wings;" Nurae Steele, song, " Two's Company;" Madge Blackley, song, " Lights of London Town"; Miss Lizzie Sceats, song, ''The Kerry Dance," and in response to an en core, "ThoMillor and tho Maid;" Nuree S. Needy, recitation, "Faithless Nelly Gray ;" Murse Blackley, song, "My Angel Nina" (with chorus); Jiurse Swaine, song, "Apart"; Nurse Steele, song, "Laßsie;" Miss Lizzie Sceats, song, " Laddie;" Nurse Dean, song, " Beautiful Star ;" Nurso Long, song, " Killarney;'" Nurso Stoole and Lizzie Sceats, " Pulaßki's Banner"; Miss Crisp, recitation, Nur?B pSteelo, song, " A Summer Shower"; Nurses, gleo, " O, Hush Thee, my Baby," Tho programme appropriately closed with the National Anthem, and three cheers for the Lady Superintendent and nurseS,and to all who had assisted in promoting the pleasures of the entertainment,|

Tho Frozen Meat Company's lease.

(To the Editor.)

Sm,—l see from this morning's isiue of the " Herald" that the above matter is not yet finally disposed of. I therefore venture to write you a few lines on the subject. There is one view of the matter which has never as yet beon discussed, and that is, thflp claims made by tho Frozen Meat Com pany of their supplying return cargo for the steamers which vieit our port. There can bo no doubt return cargo has hitherto beon the great obstacle to our becoming a favouri c port, and if we can only mako suro of a regular supply of i his desirable thing, then we need have no fear of any southern port wha'ever. Now, what 1 would suggest is, gWo the Frozen Meat Company tbe concession they ask for on condition that they ship not less than 5,000 sheep per month. luw fixed this low amount, but it ought in all fairness to be nearer 10,000 per month. 1 must say I have an idea that if the conces sions were given without this restriction, it would result in the Frozen Meat Company suspending operations as suppliers of return cargo almost instantly. They would tnen develop into a land-leasing company, ana it doesn't require a great Etretoh of tne imagination to see how speedily this wouia militate against the interests of the Ha"10"! Board, or, in other words, the public at large. A good deal is attempted to bo made out of the fact that tne Frozen Meat Company are doing great things for the farmer in taking all butter he can produce. I think it may safely be assumed tha', provided a_marg'« of profit is left in ibis branch 9* th°B";i ness, it would go on as usual if the irown Meat Company were to cease operations ,0 morrow. To go furiher, I believe ■««» company wi ha less M»«K capital would be far more likely to assist tho farmers in their butter business, ana i shall bo surprised if. we have not sucn, ■ company on tho principlo of eo-operauou before long.—Yours truly,

TELEGRAMS.

Wellington, this day.-A five-roomed unoccupied house in Ghugnee-strees u» longing to David Anderson was destroyeu by tire on Saturday morning last.

Camukiugk, this day.-Thomas lice, a storekeeper at Richmond, «as throw" from his trap at Now Brighton o bate day, receiving severe injuries to his neau, His condition is very precarious.

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, MONDAY. DECEMBER 28. '1886.



The Bfle of fruit ex Waihora, from Mcl- HSSSIi* "Otiftea by Messrs B. Tonka and Co. 3Ka*ffi* , The shipments consist of osS Ba'^ B.°J?eU^, liearß/ M''ok Plums, and



SECOND TO "VTONE IN QUALITY AND VALUE. A TC-CIN'3 ~" j/ERATED BAKING POWDER, IN Jlu. and Ilb. CANISTERS. Manufactured of pure yeast gas materials AT THE FHARMACY, Qukenstrbet. PRICE, ls Gu and 2s (jp. DISEASES OF THE EYE, EAR, THKOAT3 AND CHKST. DR. WILKINS, CONSULTING & OPERATING SURGEON Is at his Surgery for General and Special Practico all mornings and afternoons. Sunday, 10 to 12 SO. Charges moderate. 17 years at London nnd Colonial Hospitals. Adjusts Spec tacles to sight. Consulting Rooms, Queen street. (opposite Shortland-street), Auckland. I\ R. H U X T A B L E, DISEASES OF THE EYE AND SPECIALIST IN THROAT AND EAR DISEASE, Formerly at Mackenzie's Evo Infirmary, and lately frcm tho Hospitals gf London, Paris, and Vlennß, Having returned to Auokland, may bo consulted at King & Sons', Queen-street, daily, from 11 to 12 o'clock. Private Residence : Ponsonby Road, near corner of Lincoln-street. G. BARTLETT, CHRONOMETER c MAKER AND JEWELLER. A largo Stock of Ladles' and Gents' Gold and Silver Lover Watches of suporior llnish, a now and well-assorted Stock of Gold Brooches, Ear rings, &c, Ladiea* aDd Gents' Gold and Silver Alberts. Wedding Rings, Engagement and Dress Rings, Gents' Signet Rings, E'eotro Plate, Marblo Clocks, &c„ Gents' English Loveia, at £3 103; guaranteed.



151, Queon-street, Established 1862. T)y F . HUBBARD, C. E., ARCHITECT AND SURVEYOR. Wator Supply and Drainage Specialties. 02, Queen-street. CIOWLER & WILKINSON, -"- ARCHITECTS, SURVEYORS, AND ESTATE AGENTS, Exchange Chamders (ground floor), DURHAM STREET EAST, AUCKLAND. Plans prepared, Builders' Quantities supplied, nod Accounts adjusted. Loans negotiated, Valuations undertaken, and Estates managed for absentees, &o. Numerous Properties for Sale, in all parts ot Auckland and Suburbs. /CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR CARDS. THE LATEiTDESIGNS. i Beautiful Floral Albums, Desks. Writing Caßes, Card Cases, Nice Selection In Bibles, Prayer Books, Birthday and Gift Books, AT VERY MODERATE PRICES. HY. A. COLSAN, Stationer and Bookseller. Victoria-Btreet. E S T VALUE AT WILLIAM R. BRIDGMAN'S.



500 dozen Coats's host Sewing Cotton, 2CO yards, Nos. 10 to 21, ls per dozen; 250 dozen do., -100 yds, Nos. 20 to 50,2s 6d dozen; 15) Pairs Long Lace Curtains from 2s 6d pair ; Crowdson's Calico, Is 3d dozon : Horrock's, 2s lid dozon; Ginghams reduced to ili, worth 8d; 25 Pairs Long Muslin Curtains, half price, to clear; splendid Black Silk, is lid, worth 63; large and wo'l-assorted stock Now Dross Goods; Sateens, from 8d; Fancy Dress Goods, Gd; Lustres, 13d; Honeycomb Quilts. 3* Dd nnd ss. splendid value; large variety Muslln-work Embroidery, from lid yard; 20 Ladies' China Silk Ulsters, half price, to clear; New Frilllngs In variety. Feathers. Sun Bonnets; largo variety Maids' and Ladles' Aprons at cost to clear; strong Tweed for Boys' wear, ls Id; strong Galat a Stripe. -1* lid, great barga'ns; really good Cotton Shining. __Jd yard; nice assortment Ladies Laos Capes ami Dolmans, cheap; 111 Men's Oxford Shirts, 2s lid, worth la !)d; Men's Paget Coats, 8s lid, worth 20s; Men's Summer Coats, from 2s 9d; largo assort ment Men's and Boys' Straw Hats, from (id; nrgo lot Job Hosiery to bo cleared at a heavy discount; Men's White Shirts, from 2s lid; good t took; cheap clothing. Patterns free by post. Freight paid on parcels ovor 20s. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, 283. UPPER QUEEN-STREET. 1 PILSENER, LAGERBBBK FROM THE KAIBSR BREWERY. Solo Agents for New Zealand— SEEGNER, LANGGUTH & CO., FIRTH'S STORES. ALBERT-STREET. AUCKLAND. W7"S. Laurie _ C 6; Have for Sale— 170 Tons Bonedust 250 Tons Island and Peruvian Guano 200 Tons Superphosphate of Lime Sulphate Ammonia Nitrate of Soda 100 Bales Cornsacks 60 Tons Black and Barbod Fencing Wire 60 Kegs Staples, Pins, and Rollers SEEDS-viz., Whlto and Red Clover, Alsyke, TimoHiy, Cowgrass, Cocksfoot, and Rye grass, Turnip, etc. Prices and Sampleß on application. CUSTOMS STREET, AUCKLAND. TT OUSEHOLD r(OAL, 21s PER TON (Fob Cash, ok Ordering), WHANGAREI COAL MINING COMPANY. KING, WALKER, & CO.. Agents (next Waitemata Hotel). riKIKK! T\KINK!! BROOKES & COS CHAMPAGNE HOP BEER. No othor Hop Beer made by the eanio process, and none co genuine as BROOKES & CO.'S. New applianeos to supply the increased domand for our splendid beeu. Beware of false imitations bearing a similar mark. See that BROOKES & CO. ls on every label. Christmas Hampers Packed in all sized Casus. Our Beer is produced in quart bottles, aud three and flve-gallon kegs {guaranteed). BROOKES & CO., • CHAMPAGNE HOP BEER WORKS, Jervois Road, Ponsonbt. Telephone 386. Office hours from 9 a.m. till 5 p.m



T. & H. COOKE are now selling Croquet Chairs, Folding Canvas Chairs, and Verandah Blinds, at greatly teduced rates. T. & H. COOKE have just received, ex Coptic. New Patterns in Brussels and Tapeßtry Carpets; also, Wool Mate and Bugs. T. & H, COOKE have just opened a lot of very superior Austrian Bent-wood Cane Chairs, Folding and Rocking Chairs and Lounges. T. & H. COOKE have on sale, Perambu lators, with Bicycle Wheels and Rubber Tiros. T. AND H. CoOKE, FURNHURE, BEDDING, AND CARPET WAREHOUSE, JUNCTION OF QUEEN AND GREY STREETS, AUCKLAND. riKANII CASH SAL if. JP 1* 000 WORTH OF DRAPERY AND £,<S,UUU CLOTHINGi AT HALF PRICE. I. FERHANDEzfiDRAPER, NEWTON, Having purchased a large portion of Messrs L. D. Nathan's and Co., Stock, at a very heavy discount, he is enabled to oiler some of the greatest Bargains ever known in Auckland, whioh the following Price List Will Show :- Men's Strong Tweod Bummer Suits, complete, 235; usual price, 12s. Men's Summer Tweed Trousers and Vest, 12s 6d; usual price, 20s. Men's Strong Tweed Trousers, 7s 6d; usual price, 12s 6d. Men's Coloured Moleskin Trousers, Is 6d; usual price, Ss lid. Men's Strong Working Shirts, lined baoks, ls 6d; usual price, 2s (id. Men's best quality. Long Silk Coats, 15s 6d; usual price, 22s 6d; Silk Helmets, to match, 5s lid. worth 12s 6d. Men's Felt and Straw Hats, from ls 6d each, the cheapest and best stook in Auckland, see window; every Hat marked in plain figures. Boy's and Youth's Clothing in great variety at half price. Alsj, extraordinary Bargains in Drapery and Millinery, every artlole guaranteed much cheaper than Queen-street prices; prioe list in future issue. _t®"Speo_al Toys and Fanoy Goods for Christ mas, presents at just a quarter the usual prioe, NO PUFF. GENUINE FACTS, COME AND SEE. FERNANDEZ, DRAPEE AND CLOTHIER, KARANGA HAPE ROAD, NEWTON. TKAM3 PASS THE DOOE. .p . ... i ~.



DISEASES OF THE EYE, EAR, AND THROAT. DR. A. CHALLINOR PURCHAS May be consulted daily at his Residence, Pitt street; and at— The English Pharmacy, Queen-street (Mr Haslktt's). from 2 to 3 p.m. The Newton Pharmacy (MrKenderdine's), Karangahape Road, from 10 to 11 a.m DEVONPORT. "pvR. GEO. G. KENNY, M.8., CM. ■*-* (lato Ro.ident Surgeon Wellington Hospital,and Public Vaccina tor for the District of Wellington), may be Consultod Dally at ids Residence, VAUXHALL ROAD, DEVONPORT, from 0 TO 10 A.M. 2 TO 3 P.M. 6.30 io 8 p.m. CHRISTMAS CARDS. CHRISTMAS CARDS. CHRISTMAS PRESENTS. NEW YEAR'S GIFTS. FREDK. MOUZER'S BIJOU SHOP, In Victoria-street, Is the place to buy CHRISTMAS CARDS and NKW YEAR'S GIFTS. A(l New, Choice, and Cheap. Plain figures, plain dealing. " A thing of beauty la a joy for ever. i~A E O. MoCAUL, VJT Wellesley-street East, GALVANIZKD IRON WORKS & COLONIAL OVEN MANUFACTORY.



Plumbers, Builders, Contractors, and Storekeepers Are Informed that GEO. MoCAUL, of Thames, HAS TAKEN OVER THE BUSINESS LATELY CARRIED ON BY J. L. KEAN, And being a Direct Importer and Purchaser for Cash, Is propared to Supply all Business Material at Lowest Rates. Awarded Throo First Prizes for Colonial Ovens, Corrugated Tanks, Lead-hoadod Nails and Washers, Spouting, and Lead-edge Ridging. GEO. McCAUL, MANUFACTURER AND IMPORTER. Wellesley-street East, Auckland, and Brown and Davy Btreets, Thames. qPECIAL BANK HOLIDAY. Pursuant to tho terms of tho Banks and Bankers Act, 1.80, and the Banks and Hankers Amendmont Act, 1882, SATURDAY, theSccond day of January, 1836, is horoby appointed a Special Bank Holiday at tho Offices of tho un dermentioned Banks in Auckland: For THE UNION BANK OB1 AUSTRALIA (LIMITED), E. MOORE, Acting Chief Officer for New Zealand. For THE BANK OF AUSTRALASIA, E. W. MoRRAn, Inspootor. For THE BANK OF NEW SOUTH WALES, W.G. Riiind, Inspector. For THE NATIONAL BANK OF NEW ZEALAND (LIMITED). W. Dvmock, Inspector. For THE COLONIAL BANK OF NEW ZEALAND, Henry McKenzie, Aoting General Managor For THE BANK OF NEW ZEALAND, D. L. Murdoch, General Manager. Auckland, December 28,1885.



.J.°?lT W\ ai 1J am' R-a Greenwood sells at his mart, Vulcan Lane, on behalf of the £w w.kSoc ( loty' t tho riehtß to erect refresh ment booths, etc., etc. at the Boriety's aanual Ka'hering to be held in the Government Grounds on January let. "uvernment On Tuesday the St. Mary's social rather ing will lake place in the Parnell rawtowtoS & klnji permission of tho School Committee Tea will be on the table at 0.30. and musiowui follow at 8 p.m. It is honed that this lin lm U£ CT flH a, 8 itß «l'^ece ßE ors The P ooeeds Will be devoted to the new church fund. _,n^v Btm? c*e* NT Year' birthday, and complimentary cards aud cheap booke RtntinrT cry, and presents at H. White'sinniV SffL" Bank of New Zealand Queen-streeWAdvU 6



Some of the most beauWuLspeeime^ Bohemian artware, «owf r«d„?,Cfflar.oJ B terracotta ware are en view at.«»« "g 1 Tonka and Co., and wil be d.;- a e UanyneW to-morrow. Ihe collection compnsesmanj^ and cboiee articles of cbs*y£?J_toDreeaen, come directlrom the "^^%f„moaltU> and as New Year gifis it wiU b i very ojur> choose more Buitab c or pl«a8U"B^"^ sale takw place at 11 o'clock .o-morrw.