COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &c., To-night.

Opera House - Darrell'a Company of Selected Artistp, " Sunny South," 8. Theatre Royal-Variety Kntcrtainment, 8. Waltemati Hotol Special Genoral Meeting Auckland Kegatta Club. i.30. Loyal United Horvico Lodge, 7.30. Clarondon Hotal-Meeting of Butchen re Picnic], 8. Mount Eden Baptist Church-Reception of Mr Bray, 7.30. DriU-shod-Collego Rifles, 7.30.

Auction Sales To-morrow.

Alfred Buckland-Dairy Cows, etc., Romuora Yards, 1. B. Tonks and Co.— Buggies. Harness, etc., 12.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Kails wUI oloso as uader :-

This Day.

For Katlkatl, Aongatete, via Thames, per

Enterprise, at 1 p.m. For Thames. v«r Enterprise, at 4.30 p.m. For Wangarei Heads. Paras, Waipu, Wangarei, and Kamo, por Waitaki, at S p.m. For Tauranga and Opotlkl, per Clansman, at 5 p.m. TnoBSDAY. Decombor 31. For Port Fltzroy, Tryphona, and Okupu, per Argyle. at 7 a.m. For Thames, per Kotomahana. at 9 a.m. For Waiwera, To Kapa, and Warkwoitb.per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. Per Walhora, as follows :— For India. China. Japan. Mediterranean ports, and Continent of Europe, at 10 a.m. For Gisborne, Napier, Soutnern ports, Aus tralian Colonies, and United Kingdom, vi<t Suez and Brlndisl, tor letters, &0., specially so 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 bo due in London on Tuesday, 23rd February. For Friendly and Navigators' Islands, Tahiti, and Rarotonga, per Janet Niooll, 5 p.m. For Whangarei Heads, Parua, Waipu, Whan garei, Kamo, and Mai-Kaput, per Macgregor, at 7 p.m. For Thames, por Enterprise, at 7 p.m. Saturday, January 2. For Waiwera, Te Kapa. Workworth, &c, pet Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Piuiki. Cowes, and Coromandcl, per Coro inandul, at 5 p.m. Monday, January 1. For Grey mouth, per Heruld, at 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 5. Per Alameda as follows :— ' For Navigator Islands, Simrtwiah Islands, United Htatos ol America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South Airiorloa, sod British nci Foreign West Indies, at 11 am For United Kingdom and Continent ot Europe, at 11 a.m Money orders. 0.-33 a.m. Registered letters and oewauapera. a 1.9.30 a.m. Late letters, bearing an ex:ra fee of Bis pence In addition to iho postage, will be received by the Mall Agent on board the oteamer np to tho time of Billing, Tola mail will be due In London about Feb. 10. Noto.—Fiiday. Ist January, will bo observed as a Postal Holiday. All mails for dispatch on that day will bo closed on Thursday. 31st ins*., at 7 p.m. The Delivery Department will bo open on Thursday night from 7 to 8 o'clock, Sinned) S. B. BIS 3, Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-offloo. Auckland.

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

Simsffr.—This evening, 7.16. BONWB*.—To-morrow morning, 4.40. Moon'a Age.—Last Quactor, 29th, 01 a.m.

HIGH WATER.

Auckland -This evening, 1.0; to-morrow mominx, 1.10.. . M4Nok.au ±IiADS-Thisevening,3.Jo; to-mor row morning, 4 20. Kad'ar* Heat<«—This evening, 1.10; to-mor iow morning, 5.20.

ARRIVALS.

LASI EVENING. Mulrarwgl. cuttor, Scott, from Tonga Waltaki, s a.. Crawford, from Whangarci TO-DAY. Vanduara, ship, from London Julia Pryce. sen.. Scott, from tforfolk Island Wathora, 8.8., McQee, from Sydney Clansman, e.s , Farqahor, from Tauranga

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVENING. Te Anau, s.s., Mclnt sh, for Sydney McGregor, a.s., Johnson, for Whangarei TODAY. Kassa, barquo, Mills, for Mosgonni

IMPORTS.

Per Mahnrangl— Vi tons copra, 15 paokages sundries.

Per Julia Pryce 5 t-ns bones, 10 hidea, 1 ba'.e wool, few bix. s fruit.

Per Waihora, from ryrtney-GOO rnckagestea, 208 bales hemp, 600 casi>9 frul', 300 felloes. 132 bags bark, l,J0!) baas sugar, 16 bales kapok, 12 J-oaeka whisky, and sunaries.

EXPORTS.

Per Te Anau—lßo sacks poUitoc3, 528 sacks maize, 107 doors. 582 kegs butter, 180 suckH pol lard, 11!! cusos choeno, 10 b \TtaU pork, 200 nacka sharps 18 bales fungus, 10 bales zinc, 35 bales metal, G bags coppor, 201 pickagoa sucdrloe. .

Tho ship Vnnduara arrived in harbour from London to-tlay, under charter to tho Now Zea land Shipping Company. Particulars of her passage appear o'sowhore.

The schooner Glaborne will receive car^o for Hast o<B3t ports and Gioborne until Thursday evening. tilsborna shippers are requested to send diiv/n promptly.

The s.s. Te Anim, which left for Sydney yester day, took the following pussengers:-Mrs McColl, Mrs and Miss AValhouse, Mr and Mrs Kemp, Mrs Kcan and family (2), Messrs Baker, Lamb, Topham, Barnett, Stakes, Mrs Baker and maid, Mr and Mrs Withkousie, Mrs Ellis and child, Mrs Kfgg, Mr Smith, Dr. Bodwell, Misa Mc- Laughlan, Mr and Mra Manby, Mrßedford, and 42 in the steerage.

Tho Clansman makes an early trip lo Tau raaga this weok in consequence of the holiduy. She leaves to-night.

The New Zealand Shipping Company are advised of the arrival of tho Aorangl at Ply mouth on December 28, all well; tne frozen meat in good condition.

;t The B.s. Clantman brought the following pas sengers from Tauranga: Captain Außten. Mr and Mrs Surtecs, Mesdames Law and Kidd, Misses Mantin and Walker. Mr and Mrs Owen, Messrs Duifus, Murray. Martin, Wilson, Jel licoe, Uickson, Mannix, Long, and Proud v.

The barque Kaßsa cleared at the Cu-toms to day for Mongonui,whe;o sha will load timber (or Melbourne.

The brig Syren, from Kaipara, with saw n tim ber, arrived at Sydney on December 16. Sail ing on the sth instant, tho brig had light winds, principally easterly, with flno weather through out the passage.

The barque Cabarfeidh, Captain P. J. Hughes, from Whangaroa arrived at Sydney on tho Kith, She left Whangaroa on tho 6th.

The schooner Sea Bird, Captain Telfcr, sailed from Sydney for Auckland on December 16, with 30 pieces building stone. 114 pieces Baltic timber, 100 cases dynamite, 1737 bags bone-dust.

The schooner Vision (Cnpt, Coe) entered ou wards at Sidney lor Kaipaia on December 21.

The Bchooner Aurora sailed from Sydney on December 23 for Auckland, with 155 tons coal and 590 bags bonedust.

The flags of tho various vessels in port were at half-mast to-day out of respect to tho memory of the late Captain Kicketts, of tho Fannie, whose death has just happened. Rioketts was one of the best known and most popular of our coasting skippers.

The Julia Pryce arrived from Norfolk Island early this morning. She left Auckland on November 28th, with light N.W. winds, whioh continued until December Ist, when a Btrong N. wind obliged her to put Into Whangaruru. Left again on the sth, and on the 6th encountered a heavy S.B. gale, the vessel being hove-to for 21 hoursjfrom thence fine weatheruutilarriral at Morfoik Island on the 9ih, Left again on the 16th, and encountered a hoavy gale on tho 23rd : from thence, light S.K. winds until arrival. Passengers:- Meesrs Coates, Youdk, Beers, Masters Rossiter and Ohonomes, Mr Ohonomes, Mrs Silva, Miss Nobbs, Miss S. Nobbs, Miss Young, and Miss Hoenlter.

ARRIVAL OF THE WAIHORA.

The Union Company'ss a. Walhora, 2,003 tons, T, MoGea commander, which arrived here Ihis morning at 7.15, sailed from Sydney at 9.30 p.m. on 21th toßt. Passed thronah the Heads at 10.20 P-JJ. Passed the Three Kini?s at 8.40 a.m. on 2flth inßt.. and breasted the North Cape at 0 30 &m Experienced Btrong easterly winds with gh head sea till reaching the Kings. Thenoe to arrival haa fine weather with light and variable winda and smooth sea. Passengers ; - Saloon-For Auckland : MiSB Stephenson, Mr J. G. Bollard, Mr W. White. Mr Blrwistk Mr J. O. White, 'Mr G. Kobinaon Mia Lobb, Maatar Lobb, Mlsb AbrahaL1 Mr T J. Kin*. Mrs Smith. Misses Smith (21. Mr W. Newoombe, Mr peering, Mra Deerlnc, Mr A. D. Bilfy, Mr Kedrtin. Mr A. J Flnlay, Mr J. H Mole, Mr D. Myeru. Mr A. M Betts. Mr Gar rard, Mr Gray, Mra Gray. Mr Davis, Miss Davis, Mr F.Uawes. Mr I. p. Duhan. Mr Symons (2), Mlbs Symons, Dr. Dobson. Mra Dobson. Mra MoLeod, Mr J. Wyatt. Mra Wyatt, Mr W. G. Dodd. Mr Spark, Mrs McPheraon, Mr Renard, Mrs Renard, Mr S. Mobs, Miss M^ots, Mr Bean. Mr Davidson. Miss James, Misa Uhr. Bignora Fabr,s, Mr T. Burdett, Mr H. Harrlß Mr Gurnoy, Mrs Gurnay, Miss Gurney, Mr G. 8 ,?.^Bl, J" W'nstone. Mrs D Jonea. Mr E. Mltoholson, Mr Copeland, Miss Bailey. For Glsborne: Mr Mann. For Napier: Mr J. Orr. For Lyttelton: Mr D. louissen. For Port Chalmera: Mr H. TurnwTMr J. Fox. Mr DftwsoD, Mr A, Lynch, Mr J. Harden Mr P Dodd, Miss Beaulaid. lf° e A hge n for £ DOEL and: Chung flu. Sew gl.. Ah Sew, Su Chung Say, Lo Slntr Lo |h' n?. Chan Shu, Sew Uhung, Onan Hee, £S §S o> hWm ai!: Metsrs A. Chapman, W. Folllday, Price. H. Fabsr, Harris, J. Cottle A Portray Mrs Hind, Mr Widdlaon. Mr Stewart. Misses Siewart © Masters Stewart (3), Mr Howe Mr Wright, Mrs Wright, Master Wrisht Mri Stoyson.MU.B simpW, Ml"B. Puidy, Mr^! n2Sm tMrSB^ 1, BbnS- For Wellington: Mr X TS n^itr^f. BiUJIS?' For lyttelton: W. » p%.°- MpOullooh, P, stark, u'Conner. Mranw """?: ?" PotUnghoff, Metars F. ElUs ForDm^ "Ho, Johnston. Smith, C!ta» 1 *

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

sterday.. Sailed: Mana- PobtOHMJUibii, T*v Gla muri, tor thei Nortfi. >. Auckland: Messrs tonw: Mm Grant fI BW- fe. Sailed: The Rolling, McGee, and 6 "teg*^.. •'gton. Jessie Headman, ship, for Wtflv, ■

COMMERCIAL.

EvmnuaßTAH Office, thladsy. , v i Hasans K. & A. Isaacs report that at thair land •^BwVesteaay.theatteVanoeww^iV^ ffil?»lev?(iUotmeiitßWßreaUpoMdolt Bidding * waasMitvery spirited. r \ • The Auckland «rooers' Association quote the I wnoleealo prioaot butter at 8d per ib.and fresh I HK« 1W wr dozen, tor week ending January 7.

Notices to Correspondents.

A.G.H. (New'on).—We have forwarded your note and address to the writer. He can com municate or not, as he may see desirable.

Births.

PEARCK.-On December 27, at Kingsland, the wife of H. Pearoe of a daughter. TYZA.CK.-At h»r rendenco. Welle«leyetreet. the wife of Samuel Tjzackof ason (atill-boro). DAVIS.-On DjoembT 29. at Mount Eden, tbo wife of the Rev. J. King Davis of a daughter.

Deaths.

DEMPSEY.—On December 2:>, at his residence Grafton Road, Auckland, Now Zealand, after a long and painful illne9», Mr James Dempuoy, contractor ; atrea 56 years. Deeply regretted. R.I.P. —Melbourne and Hoio papera please copy. «j Thofuneral will leave to-morrow (fhurada?). at 3 p.m. Frisnds kindly accept this as an invitation. PARKER.-Accidentally killed on December 30, William Johnson Parker, nephow of Wil liam Johnson Parker, Now Zealand Timber Company j aged 25 Tears. The funeral will leave tho residence of Mrs J. Parker, Jervois ltoad, Ponsonby, to-morrow iThurudaj), at 315 p.m. Friends aro rospoot f ully invited to attend. PROUDE —On December 29, a? her son's resl donoe, Thornvillo, Bombay. Groat South Road, Anno Proudo, widow of Thomas Prouie. of Old Thornvillo, Yorkshire, England : aged 75 years. SMITH.— On December 29, Samuel Murray Smith, youngest son of the Uto Samuel Murray Smith ; aged 6 yoaro and 1 months.—May his soul rest in peace Private intermont

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

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 1885.

Fkom recent mail advices, we learn that the success of the Interoolonialand Indian Exhibition in London next year is now completely assured. The first of what will in all probability be a long series of festivities in connection with the Exhibi tion was held on the eve of the 6th of November, when the newly-formed St. George's Club entertained Sir Philip Cunliffe Owen (Secretary of the Royal Commission for next year's Show, 'and practical chief administrator) at dinner. Lord Dunravon (Under-Secretary for the Colonies) occupied the chair, and among others present were Lord Harris, Sir Robert Herbert, Sir Charles Tupper, and a number of influential gentle men connected with Canada and other colo nies. In response to the toast of hia health, coupied with success to the In tercolonial and Indian Exhibition, Sir Philip Cunliffe Owen said the Exhibition ought certainly to be a great success There was no red-tape machinery about it. The colonies had heartily responded to the invitation sent by the Prince of Wales last year. Every inch of available space had been allotted last November, and every inch of this space would be filled ; indeed, could have been filled twice over, it was expected the Exhibition would have a most important influence in bringing about marked bonds of sympathy between the colonies and the Mother Country. A great deal of ignorance prevailed in England with reference to the colonies, and the Exhibition would be a vast educational medium. All the Mayors of British towns had been communicated with, and they were forming workmens' clubs to enablethe work ing classes to visit the Exhibition next May, as was done in 1851. lodgings bad already been secured from March next to accom modate the" colonial visitors who would attend, and the entire arrangements made were such as to leave no doubt of achieving an unprecedented success. The finest collec tion of articles ever got together in India was being arranged, and the Indian Department of the Exhibition would be of vast proportions. Not only would there be a wonderful Indian Bazaar and Durbar Hall, but the great main gallery would be one grand promenade with Indian exhibits on either side, and a passage 25 feet wide in the middle. In accordance with the wish of the Prince of Wales, music would be going on all day long, and all the attractions of ihe Exhibitions this year, such as the ountains and the illuminations, &c., would be continued. Lord Dunraven also spoke hopefully of the influence which he hoped the Exhibition would have in educating the working classes, and giving the middle classes a more correct notion of Britain's colonial possessions. We are sure that these wishes will be cordially echoed in New Zealand. The colonies will gain in two ways from the display of their products at this grand show. Notwithstanding the wide publicity which has, through many agencies, been given to the affairs of these favourable fields for industrial enterprise, much ignorance still prevails in the Home Country with regard to the products and advancement of the Australasian colonies. The name of each division of Britain's Southern dominions is familiar enough, but to many ordinarily well-informed people, the places are really vagueabstractions. Bybringingtheimmense resources of the colonies attractively before the people of England, not only will an in telligent interest be created injthe colonies, leading to an outflow of population and capital, but better markets should be found for our products. The number of visitors to even the annual exhibitions has been enormous. The Fisheries Exhibition in 18S3 was visited by 2,703,051 persons; the Healtherias, in 1884, attracted 4,167,000; while this year's Exhibition (the Inventorias) had 3,760,581. 1

The exertions put forward on behalf of the Intercolonial and Indian Exhibition, and the specialinterest and patronage of tho Princeof Wales, will make it one of the greatest ex hibitions ever held in England, and a memorable event in the history of the Colo nial Empire,

We are requested to draw attention to the altered hours of closing for the mails to be despatched per Alameda on Tuesday, the sth of January. Details will be found in the Post Office notice. Tho letters mail closes at 11 a.in., instead of 1 p.m. Tho Alameda is to leave at 12 noon, instead of 2 p.m.

The supply of puro water in the borough of Parnell is not what it should be, and it does not seem as if tho Council had powor to close impure wolls. At last night's meeting of tho Council a sample of muddy, bud-smelling water was shown, which was stated to have been drawn from a well attached to a house on Grammar School leasehold land, from which seven adults and seven children draw their supplies. The civic rulers instructed the Town Clerk to forward the sample bottle to tho Gram mar School Board of Governors with a remonstrance

Captain Ricketts, of the cuttor Fannie, one of the best known of coasting masters in the city, died this morning at his resi dence, Grahame-street, His remains will be interred tomorrow.

Stoamship rivalry would seem after all to be but a sham sort of hostility with genuino good fseling at bottom. Captain Moroe, of the Alameda, speaking at the excursion on that ship in Sydney Harbour, said ho went to San Francisco one Jay, and was told that lie had got to go to Australiu. The question then was whethor he could find Australia or not. Ho obtained a chart, but it did not suit him. He thought ho would call on Captain Webber, who could give him charts, books.and everything olso. He did to, and ho questioned whether if ho had not called on tho enptain he would have arrived so quickly. Captain Webber, of tho Zealandia, was presont while his successful rival thus generously gavo him credit for helping to insure the Alamada's swift passage.

Captain Rustell, M.H.R, forNapior, who moved tho celebrated retrenchment resolu tion last session, ia here at present for the races. Captain Russell is an enthusiastic sportsman, and his filly Tigrodia, it will bo remembered, won the last Auckland Derby.

Professor Stephens, of Sydney University, and Professor Tuckor, recently of the Now Zealand and now of the Melbourne Univer sity, have consented to act as judges to do cido as to the merits of competitors for the hundred guinea prize essay on " The Social and Commercial Development of Austra lasia," offered by the proprietors of tho "Australasian Federal Directory."

For tho Caledonian games, which are definitely fixed to take placo on New Year's Day, a large number of valuable prizes aro offered, and it is boped that numerous entries will be made for tho difl'oront events. Two of the directors, Messrs Mo- Lachlan and Morris, offer a prize of £3 for the best-dressed Highlander. Tho arrange ments for the games aro nearly completed, the Metropolitan Ground being securely fenced in, and a capacious grand stand erected. Entries will be roceived for the various evonts up till an hour before start ing, except for tho Grand Caledonian Handicap, for which entries close at noon to-morrow (Thursday.)

Yesterday, the dust boxes in tho city wore not romoved until 5 pm. through some misunderstanding. To obviate a recurrence of such a nuisance, Inspector Goldio noti fies that the contractor will remove tho dust on Friday and Saturday next as usual. Shopkeepers and householders should noto this.

On the arrival of the s.s. Rotomahana at Thames yesterday afternoon, Captain Far quhar reported to tho police that one of the hands on board was suffering from excessive drinking, and apparently delirium ireinens had boon accelerated by lato houts and the strain attendant on holiday work. The roan was brought before L. Yon Rotter, Esq., J.P., and remanded for three daya for medical treatment. During tho pas sago from Auckland he fell overboard, and was picked up by tho crow.

Plans for tho construction of a wharf 3GO feet long, by 41 feot wide,along the oastern side of the Hobsonatreet reclamation, with provision for dredging to a depth of 18 feet from low water springs, have been sub mittod to the Harbour Board. From the plans, we notice that the road and deck sur face of wharf are brought to a uniform level, as suggested by tho Committee, and consequently this arrangemont pormits tho wheeled trallic to pass over tho timber dock ing, aud subject the timber to heavy wear and tear. To guard against this, tho Engineer has provided wooden paving for the deck surface, and recommends that the paving and planking should bo laid together at first, and not wait until tho planking is so badly cut up with traffic that whon paving bscomes necessary now planking is indispensable. Moreover, about £100 can be saved by taking half-inch oiF the plank ing and half-inch off the blocks, if they are laid together at the outset.

In response to an invitation issued to the Naval Volunteer officers, Captain Fenton (of the Devonport Navals), Captain Hulso (Onehunga Navals), and Honorary Captain Smith (Onehunga Navals) paid a visit to H.M.S Nelson today.

We notice the death of Mr James Demp soy, which occurred yesterday at his rosi denco in Grafton Road, near the Hospital. Mr Dempsey was in his 56th year, was, a native of Limerick, and had boon in Auck land about 20 years. Ho wns well known here as a contractor, and executed several weigh y works under the Harbour Board and City Council; hence ho was the means of employing many hands in connection with bis contracts. His last great job at the Britomart proved unfortunate and entailed heavy pecuniary loss upon tho contractor. Deceased was a kindly dis posed man, but his health failed, which necessitated his retirement from business life for some two years or more He loaves a grown-up family of sons and daughters. His funeral takes place to-morrow afternoon, and no doubt will be largely attended,

From a private telegram received hero to day, we learn that the Colorado Minstrels, recently organised in Auckland, are play ing to crowded houses at flokitika. Tho papers there say tho show ia the best that has been seen on the West Coast. It com prises a number of Auckland vocalists of merit.

The quarterly meeting of tho Loyal Ton sonby Lodge of Oddfellows, Manchester Unity, was held on Monday evening, when the following members wero electod to oflice for tho onsuing term : Brother W. S. VVilkins, N.G.; Brother J. H. Wilkins V.G.; Brother W. A. V. Sheddan, Eloctivo Secretary. The N.G. appointed Brothers M. P. McDermott and J. Arthur his right and left aupportets. The nowly-elected officers were duly installed by P.P.G.M. Allen and P. G. Lipacombe.

At the fortnightly meeting of tho City Schools Committee last night tho resigna tion of Mr J. H. Hannan, one of the members, wa3 received with regret. Letters from the Board of Education and Mr H. Worthington were dealt with, and various items of business of an unimpoitant kind transacted.

A somewhat novel and exciting game of cricket was played on the Domain Crickot Ground on Boxing Day, between an 11 from the Devonshire Dairy and an 11 from the London Dairy. The Devonshire men sending the challenge, provided a liberal supply of refreshments for all hands, and were the victors by four wickets. Mr S J. Ambury and F. Butter played well for the winning side.

The Harbour Engineer has prepared an estimate of the coat of erecting lish-stalls and a boat gridiron off Quay-street, the cost being £2,500. The works embraced in this estimate are: Ten fish-stalls, 10 feet square, placed along tho edge of Quay street stonewall; a platform on a lower level, 120 feet long x 15 feet wide ; a boat grid, 100 feet x 70 feet, laid to a gradient of 1 in 5 ; and two flights of steps, 10 feet wide, arranged to suit all states of the tide.

A meeting of the H.A C.B Society ia convened for this (Wednesday) evening. The attendance of all members is sneciallv invited. . F y

In the list of salaries of the Harbour Board officials, as appearing on the fourth page of this issue, a few errors occur. The salaries of both pilots are £250 and free house, and in the case of the wharfinger, boatman, and night watchman in the Har bour Department, there is no free house.

The report of the Prison Gate Brigade Home of the Salvation Army for the fort night ending Friday, December 25th, is as follows :— Number of meals given, 336; beds supplied, 86 ; persons admitted, S ; persons discharged, (J; still in the Home, C. Articles received:-Meat: Garrett, Hulme, Hellaby, and a Friend. Bread: Mrs Phillips, Howie, Eobley, and Kingsford. Clothes: A Friend. Milk: Auckland and Devonshire Dairy. Money: A Friend, 2s. Vegetables: A Friend. Requisites : Groceries. The Home is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.ni, for visitors, and as we are low in funds, please •end your cheque to Mr C. B. Stone, Treasurer, or myself, Caplaia R, Little.

A match was played at Parawai Gardens (Thames) bttween the Franklin and Thames Cricket Clubs en Boxing Day, which re sulted in a win for the visitors by 35 runs on the match. The scores were : Thames Cricket Club, Ist innings, 83 (Clark 30, Eggington 11, Pearee 12). Franklin Cricket Club, Ist innings, 91 (H. >ightin gale, not out, 37, Stemson 23, R. Nightin gale 11.) Thames, 2nd innings, 41 (Buchan 11). Franklin, 2nd innings, 08 (Stemson 21, H. Nightingale 10). For the Thames Buchan and Newman bowled well, while Stemson and Nightingale dividod the honours for the Franklin. Tho above was a very friendly and pleasant game, and the Franklin returned to town more than satis fied with tho treatment received from tho Thamos Cricket Club.

The three-mile walking match at the Hamilton sports yesterday was won by 8. Goodman, who gave McCune 50 yards and beat him by a yard. Goodman complains of unfair treatmsnt at the hands of tho Cambridge judges on the previous day. He was disqualified, on the ground that he broke from a walk, but he asserts that there was no necessity wbatevor for doing so, as he was nover called upon to walk. Good man boars tho reputation in Auckland of being an honeet and consis ent walker.

The inhabitants of Freoman'3 Bay, with the boys and girls in connection with tho Helping Band Mission School, are under a debt of gratitude to a gentleman who, un solicited, has kindly placed at their dis posal thes.s. Takapuna on New Year's Day for an excursion down the harbour. The Island of Motutapu has been choeon as tho most suitable spot. The steamer will leave Queen-street Wharf at nine o'clock. The children of the school are to be carried free and provided with refreshments during the day, while a programme of races, games, football, etc., with a host ot prizes, is to take place. Tho charge of Is, including tea for adults, is merely intended to cover incidental oxponsos. It is to be hoped tho weathor will prove desirable, and that tho Freeman's Bayitos will take full advantage of this outing.

Lust night a very successful aacred con cort was held in Dovonport Kal! in aid of tho funds of tho now Congregational Church recently opened in tho- marino suburb. Tho audience on the occasion wa? largo and sympathetic. The choir of the Borosford streot Church, undor tho direction of Mr J. P, Hooton, took part, and tlioir efforts wero much appreciated. Tho following was the programme given :-Instrumental selec tion, "Loud Angelic Songs," Messrs Green; Christmas carol, "Glory to God in tho Highest" (Schubert); pianoforte solo, "Nocturno" (Chopin), Mr Ames; chorus from Third Mass, "Oh, be Joj ful" (Haydn); instrumental selection, Triiumorei" (Schumann), Messrs Greon ; base solo, "Jerusalem," Mr Abel; piano forte solo, "Andante in F," Mr Ames; vocnl solo, "The Old Cathedral," Miss Walkor ; vocnl solo, " Arm, Arm, Ye Bravo," Mr Edtnondes ; vocal eolo, Mrs C. Burgees ; vocal solo, " Nazareth "(Gounod), Mr Worrall; anthem, " Oh, Zion, That Briugest Good Tidings" (Stainer); organ solo, " Impromptu," Mr Ames ; vocal solo, "But tho Lord is Mindful of His Own," Mrs Edmondes ; chorus, "AH Yo Nations Praiso the Lord" (Mujlor); "Lovo and Duty," by Mr Prime, with piano and organ accompaniment by Mrs l'rimo and Mr Hoofon ; violoncollo eolo from "Martha," by Mr i'aque..

At last night's meeting of Parnoll Borough Council—His Worship the Mayor proaidins;—some discussion took place ovor tho proposed renewal of the dust contract, which expires in a month, but no action was takon. The nightsoil contractor wrote complaining of difficulty in collecting his accounts, and it was resolved to givo him every assistance, and tho Town Clerk was instructed to aupply him with a list of charges to show that ho was not over charging. Tenders lor concrete channel ing in Manuknu Road, near St. Mary's Church, were opened, and that of John Mc- Donald, £2 '.)a por chain, was accoptod. Only ono tender was received for tho supply of dog-collars—that of Georgo Mitchell, at 7i!d each —and it was accepted. Tho report of Mr Littlejohn, turncock, showed that during tho past month £32 'Is worth of water had been consumed. Tvolvo more fire-plugs aro required in order that the streets may bo properly watored. tho plugs being too far apart at present. This matter was roforred to tho Stree.s Commit teo. Current accounts amounting to £51 Us 3d wero passed, and tho meeting ad journed.

"Now Zealand IllustratoJ Tit Bits" for tho curront woek will contain acomi* political cartoon, "The Weaker Gooa 10 tho Wall;" comic pictures. "A Trigonometrical Survey of the Mnyor'o Footsteps," "ills Worship Shows His Lsrgoness of Sole." " Attitude's Evory thing," and " His Worship Sternly s*id ' No. belies ten other humourous pictures The roiiclirn; matter compriaoo " Brain Sanco," "Tit Bits ot Fun." "Facts and Fancies." "Tho Open ing of tho Freshwater Uathß," "'lho Historvof no Event which did not tiko place." besides numerous stories and humourous clippings

Not a Bkveragk.—"Theyaronotafcevorago, but a medicine, with curativo properties of tn« highest decree, containing no poisonsua drugs. They do not tear down an already dobllitatcd systom, but bnilil it up. One bottle contains moro real hop strength than a barrel of ordinary beer. Phyoioians preaoribo them.—" Rochester Evening Prose " on Hop Bitters. Read.

FATAL ACCIDENT IN A TIMBER MILL.

young Man Killed by tbe Machinery,

A youkg man named William Johnson Parkor, stoker at tho Now Zealand Timbor Company, was found dead alongside tho ongino this morning at two o'clock, by his cousin, William Parker. On examination, ono fida of his lioad ami body ivero found covered with blood, and it was at once con jectured he had by some moans been caught and mutilated by the machinery, He was at the time in charge of tho ongino, an oxtra shift being at work at the breaking-down saws. Owing to tho cngino working smoothly, the men omployod had no roason to think that ono of tho hands was lying dead at his post of duty, and all wero deeply shocked when the intolligonce spread through the mill. Deceased was 25 yonrs of age, and had, during tho night, been speaking cheerfully about a holiday trip he was going to tako up tho country to visit his mother. He was a steady, respoctable man, and a nophow of Mr Parker, of the New Zoaland Timber Company. Tho funeral is announced to leavo tho resi dence of his relative in Jorvois Road, at 3.15. to-morrow.

Inquest on the Body.

An inquest on tho body of tho de ceased William Parker was opened at 2.30 this afternoon at the Rob Hoy Hotol, Frooman's Bay, before Dr. Phil son (Coroner) and v jury. Mr Braham Cohen was choson foreman. Ser geant McMahon represented tho police. The jury having viowed the body, the several witnesses woro examined. William Parkor deposed that ho was omployed at Jagger and Parker's mill. He was fore man of the night shift. Deceased was in the engine-room attending to his work. Witness left deceased for a short time, and returned to his work about one o'clock this morning. At ten minutes to two he went into the department where deceased was ongagod, and found him quite dead in the ongine-bed, under tho crank.

HOLIDAY EXCURSIONS.

Tub übuul holiday trips by water tiro an nounced for New Year's Day (Friday next). Chief among the attractive excursions are those of the Northern Steamship Company, as follows :—The s 8. Clansman to Kawau, the a.?.' Wellington to Waiwora, the 8.8. Macgregor to Motutupu, and the s.B, Argyle to Tamuki. First-class bands have been engaged, and children under twelve years of age are carried at half-price, The return fares to Waiwera and Kawau are 53, and to Motutapu and Tamaki 2a 6d, and all the excursions start at 10 a.m. from Queen street Wharf. The excursions by the Clansman, Wellington, and Macgregor will be repeated on Saturday, 2ud January, to the same places. The Kamo Coal Company's fine steamer Wai taki will make an excursion on New Year's Day to Man-o'-War Bay, Waihelre, and as sports and music will bo provided, that popular roeort should be well patronised by visitors. On Thursday (to-morrow), Friday, and Saturday next, the stoamer Vivid will ply between the wharf and H.M.S. Nelson, from noon till 5 p.m., and on New Year's Eve (to-morrow) will start on a cruise of tho harbour about 11 p.m. The Naturalists' Field Club will make an excursion on New Year's Day to the Mnnu kau, North Head, calling at Huia Bay. Members and their friends will leave Auck land for Onehunga by the 8.40 train, and B.s. Hannah Mokau has been chartered to convey the party down the Manukau. There are few more picturesque places in the vicinity of Auckland than the Manu kau Heads, and tho excursion will probably prove v most enjoyable one. Tho Northern s.s. Company are organising a grand cxv cursion to Great Barrier Island, on Friday, Bth January next.

CABLEGRAMS.

[BY ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH.— COPYRIGHT.]

[reuters telegrams ]

The Duke of Argyle on tbe Irish Question,

London, December 29,-The Duke of Argyle, writing to tho "Times" on the subject of local government for Ireland, protests that it is impossible to treat Ireland like the colonies. The "Times" considers that Mr. Gladstone's leadevship will imperil the Liberal party.

The Threatened Invasion of Egypt.

Caiko, December 29.—General Stephen son, commanding the British troops at Wady Haifa, has arrived at the front, and is now actively engaged in preparation for the repulse of the rebels.

The Victorian Agent Gonoral,

London, Docember 28.—Mr Murray Smith will resign the position of Agent- General for Victoria in the beginning of April.

Tho Colonies and New Guinea.

It is feared that the parleying which has be»n proceeding respecting the proclamation of a sovereignty over Now Guinea, and the question of increased con tributions by the colonies to this end, will bo a fiasco.

AUSTRALIAN.

The General Elections in Viotoria.

Melbourne, December 29.—The Vic torian general elections have been,., fixed for the 20th February.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

(BY TELEGRAPH —PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Napier, this day. A man named John Fitzgerald was killed yesterday at Havelock. Deceaaod was driving throo horses in a dray loaded with gravel. Ho was seated on tho top of the load with tho reins fastened to the shaft, when the horso3suddonly boltod. Deceased jumped down, but foil on tho shaft, and rollod on tho ground, tho wheel passing over him, and killing him instantly.

ALMA PLACE LEVELS.

About two dozen ratepayers attended the meeting hold in Ponsonby Hall last e-vening to arrango the levels of Alma Place streets. —Councillors Dovoro and Evans, ward representatives, and Mr W. Anderson, City Surveyor, were present, and Mr Anderson produced plans showing tho levels as taken and proposed to be fixed. — Councillor Devote, who presidod, said tho object of the meeting was to settle tho levels of Alma Placo for tho information of the Council. As those present wero probably aware, there wero between 90 and 100 streets in the ward. Of those, fully one-half had not been fixed, in consequonoe of objections and other cauees, Tho Council had delegated to tho ward members tho duty of arraneing theso levels. He would remind them that if tho levels wero not fixed, tho money would be spent elsewhere, and tho works they desired to have under taken would be neglected for the present. He asked them to take each street in turn, and tho Engineer would explain the cut tings and fillings to be made. They could then settle what levols they desired to have fixed. The meeting accordingly proceodod to adopt tho course pursued, Fernleigh street being taken first.—The Chairman said it was proposed to raise the street sovon foot, and of this three feet had been tilled in since tho levols were taken.— Mossrs Blomtield and Currie consented to live foot, and the grade waa undertaken to bo left at 1 in S Tho other streets wore taken in order as follows, the Chairman stating that tho ward mem bers would report to tho Council on the objections :—Ryle-streot: Messrs J. Bruce, E. J. Thomas, Leys, and Munro consented to tho lovels as proposed by tho Engineer ; Messrs Noal (4ft cutting), Duggan, Wilson, aud Stevenson desired tho streot to remain as it was. Goorgo street: Messrs McMnth, Graham, Burns, O'Brien, and Noal objected to tho plan, wbilo Messrs McLean and Morris consented to it. Costley-stroet: Messrs Spencer, Johnson, Daw, and McMath all desired the slreot to remain as at present. Elizabeth street waa allowed to stand ovor, in ordor that the owners might send in their propo sitions in writing to tho Enginoor.

TABLE TALK.

Dnoui:iirand fires,

Suez mail in, via Sydney. Mere holiday excursions announced. Groat crowd of visitors at Thames. Earthquako shocks at Tauranga last Saturday.

Home mails will leave next Tuesday forenoon,

£ '2,800 passed through the totalieator at Thumes races.

Two Tauranga bicyclists rodo their iron stoeds to tho Hot Lakes on Chrißtmas Day. Tho Nelson "Snow Hakes" givo an enter tainment in thoLorne-street Hall on Friday night.

MS porsons spent their Christmas holi days in Mount Ed<.n Gaol; 339 in the Lunatic Asylum.

Mr D. H. McKonzie was yestorday olocted to Parnoll Borougli Council. Professor KirK will shortly visit Auck land to try and doviso a remedy for the fruit tree blight.

Not such a goose ! Mr John Runciman, of Broadmeadow's, Waikato, got 501bs of gooseberries from one bush this year. Tho coven seamen charged with broach ing " equaro gin " on board the ship Wai tangi, at Duncdin, have got 14 days each in prison.

New Zealand oats are quoted in the Mel bourne murkot as follows : —food, 2s Od to 2s lid; milling, .'ia to 3a Id.

The cricket match Otago v. Canterbury closed yesterday afternoon, Canteibury proving victorious by 81 rune.

News has beon received fromPietormaritii burg, South Africa, of the death of David Kennedy, agod 30 years, tho eldest son of tho well-known Scottish vocalist.

Grass fires are raging all over Canterbury, and homesteads, cattfe, and foncing have beon swept away by the devouring element. Tho hilla near Christchurch wero ablaze on Monday.

Tho body of the supposed murdered man found in tho Waikuto River last week was by some pcoplo thought to be that of " Paddy " Clarke, of Cambridge, but Clarke has been soen alive at Kihikihi recently. According to tho Wellington "Press," tho recent speech of the Premier shows him to be at variance with the views of Sir Julius Vogol. It adds:—"Mr Stout's bitter hostility to Major Atkinson, however, is new fully explained. They are rivals for tho leadership of the Opposition against Sir Julius Vogol."

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Beforo J. K. MaodonaW, Heq., J P.)

Drunkenness.—Two persons were punisbod In tho usual manner for this offence.

Adjourned.—A charge of using Insulting language, proferreu against Mtohaol JLennon by J. M. Synis, was adjourned for a week. Unlawfully Wounding.—Stephen Moich was charged with, that on December 29, at Elloslie, he did unlawfully out and wound ono H. J. Glover by throwing a tumbler at him.— Sorgt. Pratt prosecuted, and Mr Colter dofonded — Robert Jukes Glover, barman at tho Paclflo Hotel, Qneen-Btreet, de posed that on Deoombor 26 ho vtas attending at the bar In Uin Grand Stand lean-to at ftllerß- He. At about 330 in the afternoon, just after the Cup race, bo was engaged emptying pome water from a tub. He was throwing the water over the bar. Defendant, who was stand- Jug near. said. '"Ihero'ti some water on my trousers." WitneßS said if any water had Rone on defendant's clothes he humbly begged par dun. Defendant who was drinking some beer said, " You b—, I've a good mind to throw this glass at your head." I'hal was the glass from whioh he waa drinking the beer. It was a lonu tumbler. Witness said, "No, you won't'1 Defendant said, "I will," and the next barman Andy Grattan, advified him not to throw tho tumbler. Witness then turned sideways to pusoner to supply a onstomer. He saw defen dant piok up the tumbler and throw it at him He put up his hand to guard his head, and received the bow on. the arm. It out it badly. Witness felt quite nick. D . Coom bandaged his arm He had boon laid up evor since, and suffered considerable pain aod weakness. The arteries which had been severed had been tied up, and the doctor had put in about a dozen stitches.—To Mr Cot ter : He had had no previous quarrel with the defondant. He had not served the defendant with the beer. Witness was emptying the wator with a jug and throwing it aoross the bar. He thought there was another person witn the defendant at tho time of the aßßault Defendan' did not say that he could not afford to buy a new pair of trousers every day. Defendant wai not sober, but he (witness! was. Hu did not throw more water after the defendant com plained. Defendant did not threaten to throw the contents of the glass at him if he did not desist throwing the water. He did not know if the defendant threw any beer before he threw tha glass. He might have done sa. He did not piok up a glass and throw it at defendant. He could not say what became of the glass ho held in his hand: it might have ttruok the g ass thrown by the defendant. ir o had the Slßfi^l^ hls .hQud V' hen no received the blow J- MoKenzio, bUßhman, gave corroborative 6Vlu6nC6i (Left Bitting,)

DISASTROUS FIRES.

A Hawte's Bay Township in Danger.

Great Loss of Property.

[BY TELEGRAPH. — PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Nai-iek, Tuesday. Busu fires continue to spread in all direc tions, and almost hourly reports arrive ot homesteads burned, stock destroyed, and large tracts of grass lahd devastated. Smoke bangs over tho country like a black pall, making it noarly as dark as night, and it is impossible to ascertain definitely the dam ago done in more remote districts. The township of Makatoku is surrounded, and today fifty volunteer firemen, with engine and other appliances, left Napier for that township to endeavour to save property. Government gave free passes to the fire men, and ran a special train. When the last train left Makatoku at two o'clock to day, tho country was obscured by smoke. Nothing could be seen, but it wus known that at least twelve housoj in and near tho township, as woll as Goodrsies' largo saw mill, had been totally destroyed, and news was brought of fresh fires having broken out. Tho "Herald's" special correspondent at Makatoku telegraphs at ten o'clock to night that the Brigade and the engine ar rived at a quartor to nine. There was at the time of the despatch of the message no wind, and the fire was not spreading, but fears wore entertained that if the wind rose again the railway station and many other buildings would go. The schoolhouse is threatened, and the fire is raging round I'arsous's mills, but communication is cut off by the fire. Very little water was available, and tho Brigade wore utterly unablo to cope with the fire, which is raging over an area of six equare miles. The firemon aro at preeont directing their attention to saving tho buildings most threatonod.

Wellington, Tuosday,

A telegram ha.3 reached town that Booth's sawmill at Clarevillo is on firo, and that half a gale is blowing. Threo dwelling houses, an old llourmill, and tho buildings formorly Hookor and Stewart Brothers' timber mill wore burnt yesterday. The insurances are : -Flourmill, £150 ; dwelling houeea, £150; another, £75. Only tho latter was occupied.

Tiharu, Tuesday

Newa roached hero this afternoon that tho Cavo Hotel, about twenty miles from Timaru, was totally destroyed by lire this morning. Several occupants had a narrow 66capo. No further particulars aro to hand, and the insurances are "not yet known.

SPORTING NEWS.

Tho Auckland Summer Mooting. The publication of tho weights for tho Racing Club Handicap has not been tho means of causing any speculation so far, but things may liven up tonight after the acceptances appear. For tho Derby, Stonoyhurst is quoted at oven money, and 2 to 1 can be had about Foul Shot and Derringer. In tho doublo books on the Derby ani Stoeplochase, Stoneyhurst has beeu backed in conjunction with Macaroni and Shotover at 10's to 1.

Tho Now Zealand Stud Company Sale.

Tho annual sale of tho New Zealand Com pany yearlings takes place on Monday next, and it is anticipated there will bo some keen competition for tho various lots. Altogether there are 34 colts and fillies to be submitted, and among them is a full brother to Nordenfeldt, the winner of tho A.J.C. and V.R.C. Dorbios. The sale will take place at Sylvia Park,and Messrs Hunter and Nolan,in conjunction with Mr A. Buck land, will submit the stock. A special train leaves tho Auckland railway station at 12 o'clock. In addition to the blood stock, a draft of stud hereford and shorthorn bulls, and Leicester, Lincoln, and Shrop shire Down rams will be submitted at 11 o'clock,

Thames Races.

Thames, Tuesday,

The socond day's racing of the Thames Jockey Club took place to-day. About 1,500 spectators wero present. Results :—

Flying Stakes.—Mystory, 1; Kalo, 2 Rewi, \i. Blarnoy and Diver also ran.

Selling Race,—Notico of Motion, 1 ; Butcher Boy, 2 ; Worm, 3. Ponwing and Now Chum also ran.

Goldfiklds Handicai\ - Ciudcrolln, 1 Mystery, 2 These woro the only starters,

Stkeuechase.—Bushman, 1 ; Julia Ann, 2. Eeform, Quilp, Auctionoor, and Rowdy also ran. howdy, when holding a good position, foil, and Frewin, hia ridor, received a aovcre shaking, Koform was tho favourite.

Fuke Handicap.—Kaiwaka, 1; Flageo let, 2 ; Rewi, 3. Won by a nock.

£2,800 passed through the totalieator during the two days.

Nominations for the Onehunga Cup, Suburban Handicap, and Hurdles are due to-night.

"THE SUNNY SOUTH."

Tins capital drama, from tho pon of Mi- George Darrell, was again woll represented at tho Opera House last evoning beforo a large and appreciative audience. With a powerful casto, beautiful sconery, and appropriate mechanical effects, tho por formance was all that could bo desired. The drama will bo repeated to night, and there is every prospect that it will have a good run.

Mount Albert Total Abstinence Society.

A meeting of the members of this well established Society was hold on Monday evening at the residence of Mr J. Tonson Garlick (Perndale), for tho pur pose of bidding farewoll to tho Rev. John Haselden, who had actively filled the position of President of this Society from its commencement j in fact, Mr Haselden may bs said to be the founder of this Society. Mr Garlick presided, and letters of apology wore read from Messrs Allen and Battloy, who wero unable to take part in the proceed ings. The Chairman, in an able speech, re. ferrod to the success of tho Society under tho presidency of Mr Easelden and an active Committee, and was glod to say that their picturesquo lpcality was free from the curse of a public-house. Mr Garlick then, on bohalf of tho Committee, presented to the Rev. John Haselden a handsomely-bound copy (2 vola.) of "Many Thoughts of Many Minds." Mr Weßley Spragg and Mr J, R. Randerson endorsed the sentiments of tho Chairman, and added their testimony to the value of Mr Hasel den's services in the cause of total abstin ence in the district, The Roy. John Hasel den, in reply, referred to tho good feeling which had prevailed at their meetings, which had not only beon sources of social and intellectual enjoyment,' but had been the happy means of doing good. He thanked them hoartily for their mark of esteem and goodwill, and be lieved they would be equally pleased with his successor, the Rev. J. K. Davis, who had not only taken honours at tho University, but was a total abstainer and wore the " blue." The friends wero then supplied with refreshments by Mr and Mrs Garlick, and after sevoral selections of vocal and instrumental music a pleasant evening wai brought to its oloso.

The Bad and Worthless.

arc never imitated or counterfeited This i< especially true of a family medicine, and it it positive proof that the remedy initiated is of the highest value. As soon as it had been tested and proved by the whole world that Hop Bittcre was tho purest, best, and most valuable family medicine on earth, many imitations sprung up. and began to steal the notices in which thoPwta rK* 0' "'« country had expressed the merits of H. 8., and in every way trying to induce suffering invalids to use theh stun rdtL CXPCCti"B t0 fflakc mm * on tho credit no matter what tftel- S r°mecUoa °r cures. especially those with 1& wnv,i al"V B.. and Hop3"in theirlinmn „ • wor"- Hop" or

ANGLO-COLONIAL NOTES.

(From "Star" London Cobrksponbent,)

[Via Brinpjsi add Melbourne]. London, November 13. Freight on Frozen Meat.

In the hope of giving some tone to the frozen meat market.both the New Zealand Shipping Company and the London Dock Company have resolved to reduce their charges f«r freight and storage. A rsbafe has been granted on several of t>io recent shipments, but the absolute uiinouncunuit of a permanent reduction was not inado till the other day. The freight from New Zealand will in future be ljd per lb. The reduced charges of the Dock Company s, which took effect from the 2nd inst, run ns follows :-For receiving and delivery, in cluding overtime, uto of lamps, and storage for 48 hours from breaking bulk, 7d par carcase, save when several marks are imported from the Fame ship, when the chargo will be SJ per caso. As yet the change has not wrought any noticeable alteration in the rate?, which continue de pressingly low. Canterbury mutton of tho best kind sells slowly at nominal quota tions, but to elFect substantial sales con siderably less would have to bo taken. Tho stocks in hand are still very heavy, about 100,000 carcases altogether, in cluding tho consignments per Doric and Kaikoura just to hand. Current quota tions :—Now Zealand mutton, 2a Sds to 3s per stone ; Melbourne, 2a 6d to 2a 8d; River Plate, 2a Sd to 2s lOd ; Dutch, 3s to 3b lOd ; English, 2a Sd to 4s 4d ; Scotch, 4s 4d to 4s Sd ; Sydney, none offering.

An Auckland Tradesman's Tour.

Dining at one of the most famous " cut andcomeagain " taverns in the Strand the other evening, and partaking apprecia tivoly of tho good old Engli=h fare there obtainable, who should I moet but Mr Dallen, theerstwhiloAuckland restaurateur. Mr Dallen informed mo he had been about four months in England, and waa returning to the colony with.his wifo and boy by the Orient liner John Elder, sailing about the 23rd of next month. fJe seems to have had a good time on the wholo, and to have on joyed himßelf amazingly, save for a period of three or four weeks when suffering from a full from his horse. The fall resulted in a somewhat serious, accident. Mr Dallon's horae slipped up with him while walking leisurely along Knight's Bridge, and both foil, tho rider coining down with all his woight upon bia loft hand, breaking two ringers below the middle joint, and dis locating a third. Fortunately, the St. George's Hospit?! was close, co that tho broken bones could be sot whilst they were still warm, Mr Dallen endured the opera tion without cither chloroform or ether, and wont quietly home in a hansom afterwards, his wifo having no idea anything was wrong till he entered tho house in a faint ing condition. Tho injurod hand is now all right again, save that Mr Dallen could not clench his fist if pugilistically inclined. On the day we met he had been at the Old Bailey all day listening to tho Attorney- General's reply in the Armstrong case. It seems Mrs Dallon's cousin is Mr Pollard, tho solicitor to tho Treasury. Mr Dallen is at present busy purchasing all sorts of orna ments, &c., for his now lioupo. Amongst other things he takes out with him a prize dog-cart, with which he expects to astonish the good folks of Auckland.

An Interesting Convert.

Fow stock actors were better known in Australia and New Zealand a few years ago than Walter Reynolds. He was o pas sable player, and, if I romember rightly, wroto one or two melodramas of the " blood and thunder" pattern, but tho most striking feature about him was his ingenuous and quite unaffected boliof in his own talents. After leaving tho colonios Reynolds went to America for a timo, but managers were slow to appreciate his transcendent abilities, and he eventually drifted to London. Here, too, ho fared badly, and for some time Host sight of him altogether. On Wednesday hist ho appeared before the public in an en tirely new and original character- that of "an ex-comedian and city mis itionary." It seoms that just when Reynolds was in very low water he grew convinced of the vileness of the actor's prc session, and became converted. A city missiouer's income ho soon discovered, if less lucrative, was moro certain than an actor's, and tho opportunities for spouting on public platforms were about equal in both professions. For some little timo past now Reynolds has been attached to a " hotand hot" sect of revivalists, with a special mission to actora andother " godless " folk. 1 have before me now an article on "The Byways of Christian Work," which the "ex comedian " contributes to a journal called the ''Christian Chronicle," In it Reynolds sajs that the influences of pernicious and godless literature induced him at tho time of manhood to be come an actor, that he achieved such success that his name became "almost a household word," and that, having made large sums of monoy, he spent them in ex travagance and debauchery, " like most of my brethren of the sock and buskin." Being by and by convorted, he assisted in tho foundation of the Gospel Thoatrical Mission, among the prominent supporters of which are Mr Henry Brougham Farnie (N. 8., author of some of the most question ablo and lascivious oxtraveganzas ever pro dacod on the stage) and tho Rev. C. H. Spur&eon, I need not follow poor Rey nolds through tho rest of his tirade against tho stage. It is a pity vanity should have brought such promising young men to so pitiable a pass. One striking peculiarity all "zealous convorls" (whether they be foul creatures like Rebecca Jarrett, cr vain creaturoa like Reynolds) seem to share alike. They rovel in gloating ovor their past wickedness and making themsolvcs out to have been as bad as possible. Rey nolds, for example, tolls of having spent his earnings as an actor in debauchery. As a matter of fact, he livod particularly quiet, nevor tippled even a little bit, and bore tho reputation of being closefistod rather than extravagant.

Personal.

The R.M.S. Kaikoura, which arrived last Saturday well on time, brought over quite a contingent of colonial notables, viz., Hon. J. Bryce (who looks all tho bettor for the voyage), Hon. 11. and Mrs Pharazyn, Mr H. P. Cowlishaw, Mr K. C. Cargill, and Hon. M. and Mrs Gallagher.

Mr Gear (described to me as "of frozen mutton fame ") will return to tho colony by the Kaikoura next wouk.

The Right llov. Bishop of Melanesia, ac companied by Mrs Selwyn, leaves London this afternoon per P. and O. steamer Valetta, for Sydney. His stay in England has exceeded little over six weeks, and he was, of course, very busy the whole timo. Miss Pillans is booked through to Dun ejin, and Messrs E. Collins and W. Still to Wellington by the Valetta. I notice, too, that the Hon. Ivo Bligh is goiner out to Melbourne by that vessel; A number of through passengers from New Zealtnd arrived last Saturday by tho Orient liner Sorata, notably two gentlemen rejoicing in the euphonious names of Tickell and Strumpet.

On Tuosday next tho fifth eeri>- of wool sales will commence. The arrivaV amount to 72,000 bales, of which 9,5;).} cino iroin Now Zealand.

The first meeting of the- now session of tho Colonial Institutes was hold on the 10th inst. at St. James's Hall, when Sir Charles Warron read a paper on South Atrican affairs. Very few New Zealandors wore present. Tho noxt reunion is lixed for December 8.

A Coloni&l Conferonco (for what purpose is not stated) is boing held at Naples during tho present week. Germany haadiscovered the extraordinary attractions which tho southern provinces of Bruzil offer to emigruuts. At the meeting of the German Colonial Union at Dussoldorf the other day, it was resolved to despatch a commission to searoh out and secure suit able localities for German settlements. Staff-Commander F. W. Jarrad, lately engaged on the survey of the British Indies, lias been appointed on the staff of Rear-Admiral G. Tryon, commanding the Auatralian equadron, and will procood to join the flagship Nelson at once. I see Dr. and Mrs Haines, and Miss H. Isaacs, have positively booked passages by the Messageries-Maritimes steamor Sydney, sailing from Marseilles on the 18th inst.

Mr Veecy Stewart announces that he is despatching a "spocial party" (destination not stated) by a " clipper ship " on Decem ber Ist, and also by R.JM.S. Aorangi on January 14th. The advertisement des cribes these departures as "a rare oppor tunity for capitalists, retired military aud civil officers, and all persons seeking em ployment."

The "Echo" has again taken up the cry against_ emigration agents. A Mr George Bremer, writing to that journal, says tho Government receiving depflts in tho Australian colonies are about equal -in point of comfort to tho casual ward of a London work-house, thut tho unfortunato emigrant is turned from thence after a day or two if lie doesn't got work, and thai then, if found without means of subsistence ha ia charged as a, rogue and a vagabond, and cent to prison for three inonthß.

An acquaintance of Mr p!«v. • ]«., telit me ho mSttKS h%. the promenade concerts nt r£ unluiitty at the other evening M r llu, G"d^ he meditated returning very «CsVg Someone calls the attention of ttaTi ' pool "Post "to a report in a W ?.• "' paper describing an accident by b£i-° n powder in a muring ehait. Tha ~J laetu« gratulates the shareholders tLr El" COn injury to natives no damage rtJW This reminds the "Post's" corrZ T Mr .1. Hemriker Heaton (of the "S i ]Sews') is not having a walk over for r»? 6y buiy. The Liberals have put unir^ forlorn hopo candidate, Aubrey, uho, having beon a dissent parson once upon a time, naturally «£* mauds the support of the aati-ehS parly, never so strong as in a rart P . city. Professor Thorold Rogers \st&* to Canterbury the other evLfaJ^,* J*» at Aubreys meeting, and made a »«£* of humorous allusions to Heaton ™n^ him amongst other things ».L,7 colonist," and informing the cS KBd? Canterbury that not two \^l ago fin was a profeseod Radical. The Com m ? tf of the Carlton Club have, 1 undereS*"! into a good deal of trouble throughftg* ing Heaton'B oflcr to stand as a T P They had no notion of his erstwhile Rafi proclmties, and know nothing even ofS. political career in the colony tin n,,iS recently. H">«? The Gisborne Harbour Loan was, as you no doubt learnt by cable, subeo S mere than four times, over and at ori™, ranging from the minimum of £99 to £in? Tenders at tho rate of 102 receive allnt meiit at tho rate of about 47 per cent of thl amount applied for, those above that nr!™ obtaining allotments in full. The »uh! scription amounted to £890,000. CwS prico of shares, £162 Is. ■ ■ ** tea

The American railway companies nouncethat on and after January thelli next it will be easily possible to get from Liverpool to San Francisco within ten days If this proves to be true, the .'Frisco mad routi- will be more than over valuable. Surely the direct mail steamers'of tho New Zealand Company and Shaw-Savilk aro not keeping up the Rood runs they mads at first. From files of New Zealand papers just received, it looks as if the mails per direct steamer and those posted via 'Frisco a fortnightlater, both reachedDunedin and Cbristchurch within the same week.

The West Indian section of the Colonial Exhibition next summer will be a miracle of tropical vegetation, even the smallest of the islands contributing its most characteristic and beautiful vegetable productions. Trea forna, limes, palms, &c, will adorn tha Court.

New Zealand Mortgage and Invest.

ment Company

An unfortunate shareholder iv the New Zealand Mortgage and Investment Associa tion write 3to " Money " :—" In April lastl had to pay a call of one pound on each of my shares, understanding that Mr Carnegie the Chairnian, had gone out to Dunedin to investigate tho affairs of the Company, and would return in August. Sincß then,: it has been announced that in consequence of sovcre illness ho would not be here Ml thia month, when a meeting would be called to hf ar his statement of the affairs of the Com pany. You may imagine my surprise when, itiftead of a notice calling tha shareholder* together, I received a notice of a call of £1 per share to be paid before the 16th inst. Nothing said about the Chairman's retnrn. I quite agi'ee With your remarks in a recent isauo that the call should be opposed till a full statement of affairs is placed before us, and an explanation given as to where tho blame rests for the heavy losses, and especially whon there are two directors in New Zealand supposed to have a thorough knowledge of the place and of financing," Tho Scottish Mortgage and Land Invest ment Company of New Zealand (Limited) havo declared an interim dividend for the half-year ending June 30lh laßt of 5 per cent, per annum. The paiH-np capital o£ the Company is now £20,000, and deben tures have been issued to the full extentof the borrowing powsr of £80,000—in all £100,000.

GRAMMAR SCHOOL GO VERNORS.

A mkktisg of the Governors of the Auck land College and Grammar School was held in the offices, Shortland street, thia morn ing at ton o'clock.t Present; Sir G. M. O'Horke (chair), Rev. C. M. Nelson, M.A., Professor Aldis, Hon. Colonel fiaultain, and Mr Upton. Mindtes.—The minutes of the previous meeting were confirmed. CokiiESPONDESCE.—A letterfrom Mr Little, Wynyard-street> respecting con tinued possesaion of a honse, for which he had been paying ground rent on a verbal understanding with the late Secretary of the Board.—The Board could not recognise the claim of applicant. , Parnell Tenants -Messrs Smith, Camp bell, and four other renters of houses under tho Board, sent in a petition praying that tho Board -would permit the water to be laid, as the nell-water was unfit for use and tho wells nearly dry. A letter on tha same subject, and a bottled sample of the dirty water were receivedfromtheParnell Borough Council, hoping the Board would take immediate stops in the matter. After EOine discussion it was resolved that the petition be referred to the Property Committee witli power to act. A discussion followed on lotting the houses on longer terms, it being preferable to weekly tenancies. Thia matter was also referred to the Committee to deal with at the same time, and report upon Steele's allotment. Ma McGuirk. —An application from Allan" McGuire, asking the Board to have tome land in Portland-street, of which he was the lessee.—Mr Allright reported that the Board were not responsible.-Secretary lo inform Mr McGuire that the Board were not liable. , Remission of Fees.—Mrs Cawkwollaskea for a reduction of fees paid on behalf of her son, who had been sick for a month, and unable to pursue his scholastic studies.— Declined. _, , Temporary Assistance.—Mr HighMi), in view of tne loss of two masters in the Grammar School, asked the Board to authorise temporary assistance for tne ensuing torin. He knew of aMr Faulkner, a suitable person at Canterbury, who might fill the position.-Rev. Mr Nelson said.tbe Board should .clearly see its way before, deciding.—Mr Upton thought it unnewfj eary to go to the South when there was Mr Wood nearer to him.—Professor Alois ana Eov. Mr Nelson objected to temporary appointments ; persons so employe" anticipated permanencies. — The^nouo nenerally thought it undesirable if it oo«la be avoided, and on tho motion Of am. Colonel Haultain, the consideration ot tne application was postponed until tte nexi meeting. ff hv Allotments. -It was decided 0 ofler oy auction the lease of two allotments as one, •situated at the corner of Hovelock ana Symonds-streets, and to sell for remo* tho cottages tberecn.-Sevenu other minor applications and tho P^";? tho current accounts concluded tne ova noes, and the meoting was adjourned.

To the Editor: Sir,-Will. you k»W grant me space in which to call attend to tho action of the master bakers ojtb« pity, the majority of whom - without t» slightest reasonable pretext-have depnvea their employes of the acoustomed holiasy', viz , Boxing Day and the 2nd January. This to tho journeymen bakera and ere livorers of bread is a downright >nju«"»! to tho deliverers especially, workwß i-•»» often 13 hours per day, 0 days per w»j and to be thus deprived of days; wbich were by general consent set apart fora p holiday-and this, too, at the mm dM*o year when the pervading sentiment ttowu bo "Goodwill to men "-simply.to« tho caprice of exacting masters i a at all likely to promote that go"1,1 * ing which should exist between ««P»g? and employed, and which is sd **J to the success of any undertaking. **" more than one round where the ae»ve' the have the heartfelt sympathy ot * customers, and their thanks are | auo those ladies (not a few) who showed tt^ practical help by refusing to receive bread Eent round on Boxing UiJ glad to say there are a few *"**?s*&« above taking a mean employes, and it is such who «c w0 J of patronage and support. It is to Den r that a melting of journeyman ta"™^ deliverers will be held to utter a pro^ and to adopt some measures to.preven recurrence of arbitrary iDjustwe.-^O" 111" &C., BAKBB. .. The net proceeds from the bazaar h^^' tho Otahuhu Hall on the 18* »g" December, in aid of the *»»<* to ba*^ new parsonage for the pan* of Ota M cum-Pacmure, amounted to £1(«1J"

H.M.S. Nelson having hmshod^coa j£ will bo open for inspection-*»«■£,, i (Thursday) afternoon, fr»m _JLr Con) n.Bjr Tho boate of the Devonport Ferry W^ : will run at frequent intervals, a« per aa tiseinent,

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30 1386



r\ R. H U X T A B L B, ; 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, I ' and Vienna, Having returned to Auckland, may be consulted at King & Sons', Qaeen-Btreet, daily, from 11 to 12 o'clock. Private Residence: Ponsonby Road, near corner of Lincoln-street. G. BARTLETT, CHRONOMETER t MAKER AND JEWELLER, A large Stock of Ladies' and Gents' Gold and Silver Lover Watches of superior finish, a now and well-assorted Stock of Gold Brooches, Ear rings, &c, Ladies' and Gents' Gold and Sllvor Alberts. Wedding Rings, Eneagement and Dress Rings, Gents' Signet Rings, Electro Plate, Marble Clocks, Kc.*-Gents' English Lovers, at PS 10s; guaranteed. 154, Queen-street, Established 1862. TJF P. HUBBARD, C.E., ARCHITECT AND SURVEYOR. Water Supply and Drainage Specialties. 02, Queon-fltroot. r(RAND CASH SALE. i? 3 nnn worth of drapery and i &°> UUU CLOTHING, AT HALF PRICE. I. FERNANDEZ, DRAPER. NEWTON, Having purchased a large portion of Messrs L. D. Nathan's and Co., Stock, at a very heavy discount, ho is enabled to offer some ot the greatest Bargains ever known in Auckland, which tho following Price List Will Show :- Men's Strong Tweed Summer Suits, complete, 25b ; usual price, 425. Men's Summer Tweed Trousers and Vest, 12a (id; usual price, 20s. Men's Strong Tweed Trousers, 7s 6d; usual price, 12s Oct. Men's Coloured Moleskin Trousers, 4b 6d; usual price, 53 llrt. Men's Strong Working Shirts, lined backs. Is 6d; usual price, 2b 6d. Mon's best quality. Long Silk Coats, 15s 6(1; usual prioe, 22s Gd; Silk Helmets, to match, 5s lid. wfirth 12s 6d. Mon's Felt end Straw Hats, from 1b 6d each, the cheapest and best stock in Auckland, see window; every Hat marked in plain figures. Boy's and Youth'a Clothing in great variety at half price. Als', extraordinary Bargains in Drapery and Millinery, overy article guaranteed much cboaper than Queen-street prices; prioe list in future issue. /^•Special Toys and Fancy Goods for Chriet mas, presents at just a quarter the usual price.



NO PUFF. GENUINE FACTS. COME AND SEE. PERNAND EZ, DRAPER AND CLOTHIER, KARANGA HAPK ROAD, NEWTON. TRAMS PASS TIIE DOOR. CHRISTMAS CABDS. CHRISTMAS CARDS. CHRISTMAS PRESET PREDK. MOUZER'S BIJOU SHOP, In Victoria-street. Is the place to buy CHRISTMAS CARDS ana NEW YEAR'S GDTT9. All New, Choice, and Cheap. Plain figures, plain dealing, " A thing of beauty is a joy for eve^" HE RESPIRATORY FUNCTIONS, IF AFFECTED TUBERCULAR LUNG DISEASE, IF APPREHENDED, At once relieved and checked by AICKIN'S SYRUP OF EUCALYPTUS with HYPOPHOSPHITES or LIMIC A^D QUININE. A superlative pulmonary reparative PRICE, 3s fid. THE PHARMACY, QUEEN-STREET. w"eTt'p"o r~~t u"~6~A~irs, JUST LANDED EX OR4.WITI, Said to be tho best Household. Steam, or Smithy Coals in the Market. ON SALE, A Superior Sample of the Above. W. & G. WINSTONE, N.B.—Also, Taupiri, Nowcastle, and Bay Coals as usual. nEINK! "TV RINK!!



BROOKES & COS CHAMPAGNE HOP BEEK, No other Hop Beer made by tho same process, and none co genuinc'aa BROOKES & CO.'d. New appliances to supply the increased domand for Our SPLENDID BEEK. Bcwaro of false imitations bearing a similar mark. Sec that BUOOKKS & CO, ia on every label. Christmas Hampers Packed in all sized Cases. Our Beer ia produced in quart bottles, and three and live-gallon kegs (guaranteed). BROOKES & CO., CHAMPAGNE HOP BEER WORKS. Jervois Road, Ponsonby. Telephone 380. Office hours from 0 era. till 5 p.m



T. & H. COOKE are now selling Croquet Chairs, Folding Canvas Chairs, and Verandah Blinds, at greatly leduced rates. T. & H. COOKE havo just received, ex Coptic New Patterns in Brussels and Tapestry Carpets; also, Wool Mats and Rugs. T. & H, COOKE have just opened a lot of very superior Austrian Bent-wood Cane Chairs, Folding and Rocking Chairs and Lounges. T. k H. COOKE have on sale, Perambu latora, with Bicycle Wheels and Rubber Tires. T« AND H, CoOKE, FURNITURE, BEDDING, AND CARPET WAREHOUSE, JUNCTION OP QUEEK AND GREY STREETS, AUCKLAND. CIOWLER & WILKINSON, *■ ARCHITECTS, SURVEYORS. AND ESTATE AGENTS, Exchange Chambers (ground floor), DURHAM STREET KAST, AUCKLAND. Plans prepared, Builders' quantities stfppllod, and Accounts adjusted. Loans negotiated, Valuations undertaken, and Estates managed for absentees, &c.



Numerous Properties for Sale, In all parti ol Auckland and Suburbs. S.. C. H A L HAT AND CAP MANUFACTURER, SHIRTMAKKR, HOSIER. AND GENTLEMEN'S MERGER. HATS AND CAPS OF EVERY DESCRIB TION MADE TO ORDER. KARANGAHAPB ROAD, AUCKLAND. B.C.H. having made arrangements with Messrs Fenton and Co., of Queen-street, for the manufacture and supply of the whole of hia stoik, la enabled to adduce the name of that well-known firm as a GUARANTEE for the exoellanoe and qaallty of his goods. KARANGAHAPe"rOAD, NEWTON, AUCKLAND. BEST TALUB AT WILLIAM R. BRIDGMAN'S. 500 dozen Coats's best Sewing Cotton, 200 yards, Nob. 10 to 21, Is per dozen; 250 dozen do., 400 yds, Nos. 20 to 50,2s 6d dozen; 15t) Pairs Long Lace Curtains from 2s 6d pair ; Crewdson'a Calico, 4a Sd dozen : Horrock's, 2s lid dozen: Ginghams reduced to 4|d, worth Btt; 25 Palra Long Muslin Curtains, half price, to olear; splendid Black Silk, is lid, worth 6s; largo and we'l-assorted stock New Dress Goods; Sateens, from 8d; Fancy Dress Goods, 6d; lmstres, 4jd: Honeycomb Quilts, 3s »d and ss. splendid value; large variety Muslin-work Embroidery, from Hd yard; 20 Ladles' China Silk Ulsters, half price, to clear; Slew Frillings hi variety. Feathers. Sun Bonnets; large variety Maidß' and Ladies' Aprons at cost to clear; strong Tweed for Boys' wear, Is Id; strong Gal at a S tripos. 49 Hd, Rreat bargains; really good Cotton Shirting, 4jd yard; nice assortment Ladies Lace Capes and Dolmans, cheap; 141 Men's Oxford Shirts, 2s ltd, worth s 96?; Men's Pasret Coats, 8s 9(1, worth 20s; Men's Bummer Coats, from 2a M; largo assort ment Men's and Boys' Straw Hats, from 61; arge lot Job Hosiery to be cleared at a heavy discount; Men's White Shirts, from 2s lid; good stock; cheap clothing. Patterns free by post. Freight paid on paroels over 20s. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, 288. UPPKB QUEEN-STREET. f»1 AAA TO LEND at 8 per cent., IWXvV'Vf i» one or two sums, on un onbted aecnrUr.-F. G. Bwington, Estate Agent. v-l c " '' ™



TLLUSTRATED miTBITS TO-MORROW. A WEEKLY ILLUSTRATED PAPER of original and selected matter. Capital Stories, Jokes, and Humorous Clippings, profusely Illustrated every week. PRIZE LITERARY COMPETITIONS Buy it, read it, and introduce it to your friends. Single Copies, 2d. Posted to any address in the colony for a quarter on receipt of 2s fid cash stamps or P.O. order. TX OUSEHOLD riOAL, 21s PER TON (For Cash, on Ordbhino) WHANGAREI COAL MINING COMPANY. KING, WALKER, & CO., Agents (next Waltemata Hotel). DEVONPORT. T"\R. GEO. G. KENNY, M.8., CM. ■*-' (lato Roaidont Surgeon Wellington Hospital,and Publio Vaccina tor for the Distnot of Wellington). may bo Consultod Daily at hia Keßidonco, VAUXHALL ROAD. DEVONFORT, from 9 TO 10 A.M. 2 TO 3 I.M. C.30 10 8 I.M. INSURANCE COMPANIES' ASSOCIA TION. Insurance Compunies'Ofllces will be cloned on FRIDAY and SATURDAY, l3t and 2nd Jan uary, 183G (Now Year Holidays). HKNRY WORSP, Secretary. OPEOIAL BANK HOLIDAY.



Pursuant to the terms of the Banks and Bankers Act, IbSO, and tho Banks and Bankers AmendmentAot. 1382. SATURDAY. theSocond day of January, 1836, is hereby appointed a Special Bank Holiday at the Offices of tho un dermentioned Banks in Auckland: For THE UNION BANK OF AUSTRALIA (LIMITED), K. Moore, Acting Chief Officer for New Zealand. For THE BANK OF AUSTRALASIA. E. W. MORBAn, Inspector. For THE BANK OF NEW SOUTII WALES, W. G. Riund, Inspector. For THE NATIONAL BANK OF NEW ZEALAND (LIMITED). W. Dymook, Inspector. For THE COLONIAL BANK OF NEW ZEALAND, Henry McKenzie, Acting Genoral Manager For THE BANK OF NEW ZEALAND. D. L. Murdoch, General Manager. Auckland, December 28,1885.



We have much pleasure in reminding our -ffirfl ™ ham °l" a Ptmnd of sSXtoe t££