COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &o, To-night. Opera House - Sunny South, 8, Theatro Royal-Variety Katortainment. 8. Y.M.C.A.-Devotlonal, 7.30. Auction Sales, Monday. Vaile and Bradley-Drapery Gools, 11 a.m. R. Arthur—Jewellery, 12 o'olock.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

JHaila will close an undor :—

Monday, December 23. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 6 a.m. For Woltara and Southern ports, por Gairloch, at 11 a,m. For Now Plymouth and Southern ports, p* Rotorua, at 11 a m. For Gisborne Napier, and Southom Ports, per Malta!, at I 1 n. For Russell. Kawakawa, Herd's Point, Wanga roa. and Mongonui. per Wellington, at 5 p.m. .Tuesday, December 20. For Rußsell. Kawakawa, Australian Colonies, por Te Anau, at 4 p.m. Thursday. Decembor 31. For Friendly and Navigators' Islands, Tahiti, and Rarotonga, por Janet Nicoll, 6 p.m. Tuesday, January 5. Por Alameda as follows :— For Navigator Islands. Sandwich Islando, United State* cf America, Canada, British Columbia. Central end South America, and lirlUah acd Foreign Went Indies, at I p.m For Un-^ed Kingdom and Conttnont oJ Europe, at 1 cm Monoyorcioie. 10.30 p.m. Registered letters and oewßunpore. bi 11.30 p.m. Late lottere. bearing n«i exrr* fee ot alx penco in addition to the postage, will be received by tho Mail .Agent oa the steamer np to the time ft saillcg ~T hlV nrt" w*ll ao &V'Q >* I'Ondoa about Feb. 10.

Notk.—The Gov, rnmont steamer Stella will lotvetho Bluff fo- Weit Coast Sounds, on or about tho 2!);h inst. Signed> S. B. BISS, „,, . _ _ Chiet Postmaster, Chief Post-offloe, Auckland.

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

SussET.-Thls eeonlng, 7.11. Sunrise.—To-morrow morning. 1.46. Moonß Adit,—Last Quarter, 29th, 0 1 a iv,

HIGH WATER.

Auckland Tlii3 evening, 8.2; to-morrow morning, 8.23. Manukau riBADa-Tltisovcnlng,lo.l2: to-mor row morning, 11.3. Kaipara URAns-Thisoven'ng, 1112; to-mor row morning, 12.3.

ARRIVALS.

THURSDAY NIGHT. Matai. s.s, Dawson, from the South Waltaki, e.s., Crawford, from Whangarei Sandfly, soh., Burrel), from Tonga Ada C (Owen, brigantine, Dixon, from Rarotonga FRIDAY. ■Wellington, ss, StCDhen?on, from Tauranga Thro. Cheers, sch. Bell, from Brisbane Clansman, s.s., Farquhar, from Russell

DEPARTURES.

TODAY. Hattle N. Bangs, scb„ Bangs, for Nevi castle Nettle, brigantine, for New York

IMPORTS.

Por Three Cheers-30 tons ooal, 60 tors bones. Per Fandfly-255 baskets sweet potatoes, J6 bunches green banana?, 1,100 cocoanuts,

EXPORTS.

Per Orpheus, for Fiji—37.ooo feet timber.

BTEAMERB TO ARRIVE. Enterprise, from Thames, today, 5 am. oUnsman, from Russell, to-morrow, early Kaikoura, from Plymouth, via Port Chalmers, about January 10 Coromandel, from Coromandel. to-dny, 11 p.m. Argyle, from Barrier, this evening Janet Nicoll, from South, early "Waltaki, from Whangarei, this evening Wellington, from Tauranga, to morrow, early Maitai, from South, Friday Rotomahana, from Thames, to-morrow midnight [For projected departures see Bhlpping ad- Tertlsements and mail notices.]

The schoorer Maud arrived at Tonga on the morning of Decembei 10th.

The brigantine Nettlo sailed to-flay for New York with, a cargo of gum valued at about fi-ZO.OTO.

The Matai. from tho South, brought as pas sengers: .Misses Grant, Coglan. QrifllthF.Mesars <3ranc, Wu'laca. Cooper, wiigley, Crawlay, and 2 steerage,

The Waltaki brought the following passengers from Wbt.ngarei: Mrs. Rolleston, Messrs. Rol leston, Sltirward, Sahiff. Halt. Oorston, Hamiil, Wateny, Peters, Pearce, Hanson, Hani. White, Mahony, Malone. Jackson, Walkcy, Skivington, P. Skivington, Blewitt and Crowning.

The brigantine Three Cheers lef; Brisbane at 8 a.m. on the sth of Decembor. 6 p.m. crossed the bar, with light easterly wind, which con tinued throughout the whole of the passage, varying ftom K.S.F. to K.N.K., sighted the Three Kings at C a.m. en the 22nd. and had fresh S.E. wind till arrival on Fiiday, at 3 a.m.

The schooner Sandfly, which arrived on Tues *ay night, left long* on the llth December, at 9 a.m , with a moderate breeze from the 8.5.X., and Una pieesant wind; patscd between tho Minerva reefs, sighting the southern one at noon on the 13th. dince then light S.S.K. and easterly winds have prevailed, with calms and ilno clear winds continuing the rame until the 23rd, when a freßh wind set in from the 8.B.; made Cape Brett the same day, at 6 a.m., bear ing, S. by X.; distance, about thirty-five miles : thence strong E.8.K., and east wind prevailed with thiok gloomy wind and heavy easterly uen. until arrival in Auck'and, at 5 p m., on the 21th December. Pa«6engerß:-Rev. S. W. -Baker, Premier of Tonga: Mrs Baker, the Misees Baker (2); Mr 8. E. W. Baker, Dr Buck land, Mrs S. Roberts, two native scribes and one native servant.

Marriages.

FOSTEK—BROWN.- On December 17, by Mr a. Aldtidge, William, youngest son of tho lato J. B. Foßter, to He en, ihird daughter of Mr James Brown. King-street, Ponsonby. GIBBONS-CLUNK.—On Deoember 23, at the Registry [Office, Auckland, W. J. Gibbonp, eldest son of Mr John Gibbons, mill owner, Thamos, to Anna Maria Clnne, eldest daughter of Mr C. Clune, Drniy BARLOCH-KENNEDY.-At Auckland, on tin 23(d instant. Thomas Harlocb, youngest ron of John Horloeh, Sydney, to Catherine Kennedy, youngest daughter of William Kennedy, late merchant, Tobermory, Scot land. Sydney ard Dunedin papers please copy. PURDY-HONEYCOMBS.-On Deoember 21. at Iho residence of the bride's father, Rooky Nook, J. Pnrdy, to Mary, fifth daughter of Nicholaß Honeycombe. Both of Auckland.

Deaths.

3COTT.-0n December 2C, at Battrey street North Shore. Charles Oliver Davis, son o; Gaorge and Mary Scott, Private interment.

COCHRANB.-On Deoember 26. at the roei denoe ot his parents. Kpsom. William Henry, -eldeßt and only tuiviviog son ot W. S. and Sophia S. Cochrane; ajfed five years and eight moi-ths GARDINER.-On December2s.at tho residence ot her grandson, R. R. Menziea. Vincent-st., Mary, relict ot the late George Gardiner, Solicitor, Dumblane, Scotland; aged BG. The tnneral will leave her late residence at 3 p.m. on Sunday, 27th iniit. Friends will please accept this Invitation. KKW.—On December 25,1885, at the residence ot her son, View Road. Mt. Eden, Jane, relict of the late George Kew. The funeral will leave for St. Andrews Church, Epsom, to-morrow (Sunday) after noon a- 3 p.m. RITOHARDS.-On December 25, Emily Jane, eldest daughter of the late Mr Henry Rltchards; aged 2. years. The funoraJ will leave her mothers resi dence, Parnell Rise, for 8-.Stephen's Cemetery, to-morrow (Sunday morning), at half-past nioo o'clock. Friends are respectfully invited to attend.

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

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26,1885.

New Zealand's experience of the difficulty of distributing charitable aid with profit to the public is not singular. In the neighbouring colony of Victoria the Parliamentary vote this year amounts to the large sum of ;£i 10,000, divided among the hospitals and other philanthropical institutions almost without system. The basis of the distribution, roughly speaking, ap pears to be a Government subsidy of £2 for moneys raised from other sources; but this rule is not adhered to, some hospitals which have no separate funds receiving State aid, while in other cases the State grant is very much below the £2 standard. The Melbourne " Age," in an article satirizing the Victorian system, says:—

The municipality gives something; the churches assist year by year with a Hospital Sunday, and a collector goes round to gather in private subscriptions, on which he receives from 5 to 20 per cent, according to the sums raised and the difficulty of getting them in. Last of all, there ia a noticeable item of revenue from the sale of surplus stores, which brought in for Melbourne Hospital nearly £400 in the year quoted, ana for Ballarat £432. Patients are also called upon to contribute where they can afford it, but in some places they contribute nothing, and their payments altogether only amounted to 2£ per cent, on the gross revenues in 1881-82. On this matter it is worth while to recall some of the instances Mr Zox has in various years brought before the Assembly, where a man paying £750 rent for his business premises has a father in the Benevolent Asylum, and another in which a rich lady foisted her father in the same way upon the same institution because her hus band objected to poor relation's. It is pretty certain that private institutions manage to get paid [more effectually than the State. There was a case only the other day in a neighbouring colony where a denominational hospital got hold of an immigrant who bad landed with more than £150 in his possession, and extracted every farthing from him before it let him loose again on society.

The hospitals in Victoria are under local management, but this apparently

provides no safeguard against abuses. If the statements of our Melbourne contemporary are true, the local in fluences are a cause of abuse, not a check upon it. A local clique get hold of these institutions and work them to their own advantage, or else the officials get the upper hand, and do as they please. Tho appointments and the contracts for stores are all valuable sources of in fluence. To breathe a word against the management would bo to dofame the town, and to take away ono of its sources of re venue. So it is when scandals crop up from timo to timo; embezzlement of stores, neglect of patients, drunkenness or worse in the staff; it ia all hushed up with out inquiry, or after ono in which every thing is arranged to confound tho ac cuser.

It is always true that when a body is entrusted with the distribution of money which it has not the labour and responsibility of raising, the funds will be dealt with extravagantly. The " Age " suggests, as a remedy for the Victorian, abuses the conferring of larger powers upon the Inspector of Charities; this means establishing a dual control which cannot be said to have worked particularly well in New Zealand. We shall see how the representative board set up by the Act of last session works —that is, if the local bodies concerned do not positively refuse to administer it. That they do not take the Act in hand more willingly, and with an honest desire to give it a fair trial is, we think, a matter for regret, because local taxation for these purposes—and, we fear, for others which are now borne by the consolidated fund, is no longer avoidable. The new Board, being representative of the local bodies which contribute the funds —and being elected by indirect vote, would, we believe, be less exposed to corrupt local in fluences than a committee without those responsibilities. Patients who have friends well able to pay for their board and medical attendance come as often upon charitable, relief in New Zealand as in Victoria. There is also room for greater economy, and for a more discriminating charity; the hardened mendicant now is relieved, while shrinking and deserving poverty is driven away. At present, the entire system of management and relief is out of joint, and although the Government measure for its reorganisation may prove but a weak and ineffectual remedy, there is some excuse for it in the failure in this and neighbouring colonies of past attempts to provide a workable machinery for managing this troublesome service.

News of a deplorable-colliery accident at Pontypool, in Monmouthshire, by which 76 miners have lost their lives, is recorded in our cable despatches today. Through the same channol wo also learn that Prince Alexander of Bulgaria, in announcing to his army the conclusion of a lengthened armistice with Servia, spocially thanked the Czar of Russia and the Russian officers who trained the Bulgarian forces for their snccess in tho field. Read by the light of recent events this clause reads very like a satire. Russia was foremost indiscountenancing the Roumelian revolution and when it occurred promptly ordered all Russian officers engaged in Bulgaria to return home. But urged either by the othor Powers to throw a sop to his offended friondordirectodbyhisown shrowd noss Prince Aloxanderhasreminded the Czar that he acted tho part of a friend of tho Bulgarian people when ho taught them to defend their liberties. It is not possible for anyone—not even the sacred head of the Eastern Church—to calculate the full result of his actions, and the Czar probably now repents tho policy that assisted in raising another barricade between his dominions and the Bosphorus.

Owing to the holidays, and tho issue of a special supplement on Thursday, our Satur day issue of eight pages is curtailed,

Five stragglers from H.M.S. Nelson were arrested this afternoon by Constable Christie and the master-at-arms of the veseol. An escapee from the Old Men's Refuge or the Lunatic Asylum was also brought into the police station by a civilian.

Constable MoGovorn brought in a native by rail from Mercer, who had been com mitted ono charge of stealing cattle from the station of Mr Brookes, of Churchill, The prisoner will stand for trial at the next criminal sittings at the Supreme Court,

" An Observer " thinks that the prettiesi and most tastefully decorated of the fruit erers' shops were those of Mr Kelly, Grey street, and Mr Mushet, Queen-street Fruit Mart.

Superintendent Thomeon and Mr Ewington, J.P.s, took the F'olico cases this morning. Two drunks were on the stand, and one was fined lOs and the other remanded until the 29th inst. John Nixon, found guilty of removing and earring away a door step, value ss, the property of Frederick Morgan, was fined 20s and costs, or in default, seven days' with hard labour.

Captain Rountree, for so long a period the popular skipper of the Northcote Ferry Co., hus resigned his position. His last trip in the boat was performed lost night. We understand that he ie about preparing for a foreign certificate, his present one only enabling him to run through New Zealand. For about 3 years he has been most popular and exceedingly obliging, as everyone who has met him can testify. No doubt Mr Rountree will make his mark in the seafaring life ere long, and we wish him every success. He was suc ceeded to-day by Captain Hargrove.

Potato digging is proceeding apace at Onehunga and surrounding localities, the fine weather with which we have been recently visited having ripened the crop to a greater extent than in the corresponding season. The yield is also very good, and the quality of the potatoes generally excellent. At Otahuhu, Papatoitoi, and Elleralie, the potato, maize, and other standing crops are superior to what they have been for some years past, and the farmers are jubilant over this favourable result ot their agricultural industry.

The Arch Hill Board received on Thurs day evening tenders for works in Oxford and Russell-streets as follows:-Oxford street: Casey and Lovett, £488 9s; A. Sandall, £290 ; Evans and Wright £263 13s; Knight, £392 13a 6d; Elias Pascoe and Co., £254 6s (ac cepted) ; Engineer's estimate, £260 9s. Russell-street: Casey and Lovett, £256 Is 6d ; Thos. Sander, £177 12s 6d ; Evans and Wright, £147 ; Knight, £132 12s 6d; Elias Pascoe and Co ,£l2l (accepted)); Engineer's estimate, £115 18s. Mr J. A. Macarthy is the Board's Engineer,

It ia expected that the fish curing and smoking establishment lately established-in the Manukau will ere long prove a paying industry, and that the capital in vested therein will thus be attended with such remunerative results as will probably induce those who have embarked in the concern to extend their operations in that direction. Abundance of fish of various species is always available ; and as both the fishermen and the curers are experienced hands, large quantities of marketable fish for exportation, as well as for local consump tion, will necessarily be produced at this establishment from time to time.

The few Presbyterians at Riverhead, who only number four or five families, have lately resolved to contribute a somewhat handsome fixed annual sum towards the stipend of the Rev. Alexander Mackenzie, of Avondale, with the view of inducing him to favour them with monthly services These Presbyterians are much attached to the Church of their fathers, and their action in endeavouring to secure the minis trations of one of her clergymen is highly commendable, and worthy of imitation by others similarly eituated. There is a neat Presbyterian church at Riverhead, to the cost of which Mr John Lamb contributed largely. Itmay, indeed, be said that the edifice owes its existence to that gentle man.

A Christmas Evangelistic Service, con ducted by the Young Men's Christian Association, will be held to-morrow evening in the Theatre Royal, when special hymns will be sung and addresses given by well known friends. The Evangelistic choir will sing a number oi Christmas hymns before the service commences. The doors will be opened at 7.20, and the service will conclude shortly after nine o'clock.

Two men, Thomas King and John Sheo, were locked-up this afternoon for drunken ness.

At a meeting of the Auckland Royal Lancers on Tuesday, Decomber 22, hold in the Riding School, Dr. Edward Georgo Ledger Erson was unanimously elootod surgeon of tho trooji.

Tho unemployed who accepted the work from the Waitemata County Council havo for tho mostpart turned back very spoedily after " putting their hand to the plough." Somo 40 men, engaged to start on road formation at Walkomiti, and of tlu t number 20 turned up the first day, 17 the second, and 15 the third. They have now reached very near a " vanishing point" for Boxing Day holi day, there being very few at work. Appli cation was made by Mr Connell for free railway passes to take men to and from the work, but Government declired to grant these. Most of the few men who remain at work do not wish railway passes, but are content to camp on tho ground and send in their earnings to their wivos and families in town.

Four seamen of H.M.S. Nelson were arrested this afternoon in Queen-street by Constable Christio on a charge of being absent without leave. Their names are Joseph Riley, William Harris, Samuel Sparks, and Christopher Brennan. The men, who were under tho influence of liquor, made a desperate resis tance, but with tho aid of civilians and Suporintendant Thomson, the men were handcuffed and taken to tho Police-station. Captain Lake has givon information against six othors who aro still absent, but who aro likoly to be in the hands of the police to-night.

At the pvesent period of depression in trado it is gratifying to hoar of tho estab lishment in our midst of new industries that aro likely to provo profitable, and at the eamo timo give employment to skilled labour. One of theso will; commence operations next Tuesday in tho form of an oxtonsivo basket and wickorwaro fac tory in Albert street. Messrs McLeod Brothers, the enterprising proprietors, have just erected two handsome shops and factory near to the Fire Brigado Station for tho purposes of tho industry. Tho manufacturing branch will bo under tho supervision of Mr John McLeod, who has been in Mr Cole's establishment for the last fourteen years. A specialty will bo made of the construction of wicker fur niture, while a large supply of the latest English, Continental and local goods will always be kept in stock. The business will be on both wholesale and retail principle.

The Great Barrier, whose Europeon population, although somewhat scattered, is now considerable, is yet without any stated religious ministrations, nnd the people are surprised that no provision has hitherto been made for them in that direc: tion, especially as they are willing to con tribute, according to their means, for that purpose. The Rev. Mr. Haselden is tho only minister that has for years past visited and held service on the island, and for this labour of love the inhabitants, who are nearly all Protestants, are very grateful. The evangelical missionary would be most acceptable at the Barrier, and now that a steamer plies weekly between Auckland and the respective ports on the island, thero would be no difficulty, it is believed, in supplying the much-needed desideratum,

The first issue of volume six of the "Bible Standard " is a great improvement on the previous issues, and contains four extra pages. The reading matter is also arranged in systematic form undor appropriate head ings, viz , " Leaders ond Essays," " Practi cal Godliness," "Bible Class," "Temper ance," "Poetry," "Home Circle," and "Extracts." By enlarging the "Standard" tho editor will find spaco for dealing with important topics hithoito omitted, or but slightly touched, such as temperance and the homo circle. Tho chief articles in tho January number are the good wishes of the editor, a good poem on tho Now Year, " Dr. Moffat and the Afi icon Races" (2), " Tho Book that Works, " The Church Mission," also somo twenty solected extracts from books and lectures, church and mission news, and tho preachers' plan. We notice that tho association havo determined to moke a strenuous effort to make tho "Standard "self-supporting. Consequently 1000 copies are being issued for free cir culation in order to win sufficient and pormanent support.

The Waio-Karaka School entertainment was given on Thursday evening in the Academy of Music (Thames), and was a complete success. Mr C. D. Stewart, head master of the school, delivered an encourag ing introductory address. The programme was very choice, and very fairly oxecuted. Miss Ada Best recited the "Curfew," and Master W ells gave two humourous pieces. Young ladies gave pianoforte selections, viz., Misses H. Rowe, Smith, Angove, Best, Schofield, and others. Tho principal teachers also assisted. Mr Gradwell sang "The Death of Nelson," which was much applauded, both for tho expression and power which he threw into it, and for clear enunciation. Mr Gradwell responded to a recall with "My Old Friond John." Mr Howard Ellis and others rendered vocal assistance, and the whole closed with the National Anthem.

Mr Thomas Walker lectures at the Opera House to-morrow evening on " Mother Eve and the Fatal Apple; or the World on Fire."

For tho convenience of country custom ers, our establishment will bo open fromU to 9 p.m„ Saturday, 26th.—D. U. Chambers.

We are requested to call public attention to Mr R. Arthur's large pale of about £2 000 worth of jewellery, suitable /or New Year's gifts. Sale to commence at noon on Monday next.

Christmas, New Year, birthday, and complimentary cards and cheap books, station ery, and nreaents at H. Wbito's, next to tho Bank of New Zealand, Qiiooa-str_et.-(Advt.)

Christmos and New Year Giftß acceptable to all.—One of Chambers's Cehbrated Sewing Machines, at 20, Queen-street, only.—(Advt.)

It seems, from reference to Home papers, that Fnglieh ladies ot distinction »w beginning to acknowledge that there is as much true art in the making of a lady's dres , co that it may lit the wearer gracefully, as there is ia tho painting of a beautiful picture, and that pome of them are planning how to learn without going throuch a work-room apprenticeship. The art of dress making and adjusting millinery is ono of tho finest of arts, and though thousands practice few excel at It. The undersigned knows this well, and has spared no pains to got the bott artists that can be had, ones that excel In dress making and mlllioery, and whose tilents aro specially adaptod for those occupations. Ladies are respectfully Invited to call and t>ee if this is not so, and judge for themselves. During Christmas week, and up to New Year's Day, beautifully Trimmed Hats and Bonnets will bo sold very cheap, and all ordors will be executed quickly ani well, at J. Gilmore's, Drapor, Upp°r bymonda-streot and Karangahapo Bo»d. Please note tbe Karaog*hapo Road address: It is just oppo.ito the Bank of New Zealand.-[Advt].

TRAGEDIES AND DISASTERS.

A Sailor Killed.

(BY TELEGRAPH — PBESS ASSOCIATION.)

Ciiristouurch, this day. Bosd, a sailor, was killed on board the Orari. He was caught by the fly-wheel of the electric light engine, and his body was fearfully mangled.

A man named Jos. Kinley was found dead, at Kaiapoi, last night.

Another Dead Man's Hand.

Another human hand mystery has turned up. Some days ago a fore arm and hand were found on Tekoa Station, Waiau. The police are searching for other portions of the remains.

Destructive Fire,

A large tilssock fire is raging near South Bridge. Stewart's homestead, Westeron farm buildings, Washburn's stable, and general plantations are destroyed. It is believed that none of the buildings burned were insured, The cause of tho fire has not been ascertained,

THE WAIKATO TRAGEDY.

Identification of tho Supposed Murdered Man.

Intellioence has been received from Ha milton which goes far to clear up the mys tery surrounding the discovery of a dead body in the Waikato River the other day. A man known as Jimmy Dunbar who has been doing odd jobs about Hamilton for several years back, is said to be missing. He left Hamilton some three months ago, and stated that he was going down the river to seek work. The description of the dead body found corresponds very closely with Dunbar's appearance, as he had a finger of the left hand amputated as wet found to be the case with the corpse. There is thus little doubt but that it is Dunbar who has met with his death ; but the tragedy is still unexplained of how he came to receive the mortal wounds on the head. According to the doctor's evi dence, violence, and not drowning, was the cause of death ; and should the body bo. fully identified as that of Dunbar, the next point to investigate is how he met with his injuries and came in the river..

CABLEGRAMS.

[by electric telegraph.—copyright.]

Reduction of Cat-To Charges. London, December 24th.— The Cable Companies havo completed arrangements in Great Britian re the proposed reduction in cable charges. Thoy aro now submitting the question of reduced rates for press messages to the foreign Powers, ana no difficulty is expected in satisfactory arranging the charges. Expected Influx of Gold. It is oxpected that a large influx of gold from North America to London will shortly take place.

Commission on Education The Hon. A. J. Mundelia has agreed to serve on the Education Commission. Tho Cholera in Queensland. Brisbane, December 24.—N0 fresh cases of sickness aro reported on board the Dorundo, and the patients at present quar antined are stated to be progressing satis factorily towards convalescence. Tho New South Wales Ministry. Sydney, December 24.--The newly-formed Ministry is considered to bo a very weak combination, and it is not expected Sir John Robertson will be able to hold office long. Tho Wharf Labourers' Dispute. Melbourne, December 24.—The diffi culty betwoen tho shipowners and the wharf labourers remains unsettled. There ia, however, a possibility that the entire question will be postponed for a month ; but, failing that, the masters will obtain mon from othor colonies without delay.

GREAT COLLIERY DISASTER IN ENGLAND.

Seventy-six Men Killed.

(mi CABLE.—COPYRIGHT.)

London, December 2-1. -A most disas trous explosion has occurrod at tho Mam hilad Colliery, near Pontypool. Over two hundred miners aro still below ground, and it is feared they have perished.

Later.

London, Dec. 25.—Latest advices from Pontypridd state that tho majority of the minors omployed at Wardy Colliery are safe. It is definitely known, howover, that sev enty-six mon have lost their lives.

PEACE IN BULGARIA.

Prince Alexander's Address to tho Army.

(OAIILE COPYRIGHT.)

Sofia, December 24. Pkinue Alexander of Bulgaria has issued a general order to the army, announcing tho conclusion of a prolonged armistice with Sorvia. In tho document tho Prince states that he has to thank the Czar of Russia and those Russian officers who acted as instructors to the Bulgarian army for his rocent successes in tho field.

New Agent General of Victoria.

London, Boccrober 24. It is reported that Mr Murray Smith, Agent-Gonoral of Victoria, will return to Victoria before the opening of tho Colonial and Indian Exhibition, instead of October, as at first arranged. Mr Grahan Berry will succeed Mr Smith as Agent-Gonoral.

FRANCE AND TONQUIN.

[FY CABLE.-COPYRIGHT.I

Paris, Decembor 24.—1 n the Chamber of Deputies M. Brisson insisted upon the passing of tho Tonquin credit vote of 75,000,000 francs, and stated that it was impossible for Franco to evacuate that country.

LATER.

Tho Vote Passed.

Paris, Decembor 25

The Chamber of Deputies last evening passed tho Tonquin War crodit by a majority of four.

AWFULLY SUDDEN DEATH.

A widow named Kate Emsdean was found dead this morning immediately after mid night, under the following circumstances. Sergeant McMahon, who was on night duty in Hobson Street at 12.30, was informed by a Mrs Kennody that Mrs Emsdean who resided in tho next room to her in a small house opposite tho Governor Browne Hotel, was lying at tho foot of tho stairs and vory much injured, as she seemed to have lost tho power of speech. Sergt. McMahon was poon on the spot, and on examination found the woman dead and nearly cold. He thought she must have died early on tho previous evening. Mrs Kennedy states that the woman was vory tipsy about five o'clock yesterday, and she assisted her up to bed, where she immediately fe'.l into a deep sleep. About 7 o'clock she was seen leav ing tho house by a neighbour, and appeared fairly Bobor, so that she must have slept off the effects of tho liquor. Nothing more was seen of her until the corpse waa found as described. Deceased is 65 years of age, has been a widow nearly twelve years, and until recently her Borvices were often in re quest as a sick nurse. Her husband was -.veil known in his latter years ns a street water cress vendor. Of lato, the unfortu nate woman has taken to excessive drinking, and it is conjectured that she went out last evening, and got more drink, and on reaching the top of the stairs fell back ward and broke her nock Dr. Philson arranged to hold an inquost on tho body of deceased at the Governor Browne Hotel this afternoon.

TABLE TALK.

" The Sunny South " to-night. Everybody and "his wife" unemployed to-day. Back from excursions and ruces; rather tired, oh ?

Then " Table Tulk " this evening musi be short and swoot.

The Promior of Tonga and his family are in town for the Christmas holidays. Rain is much wanted in Oamaru district.

Hard times in Dunedin : a woman stole a pair of boots from a boy's feet the other day.

H.M.S. Nelson is to be open to tho publio tomorrow afternoon

Professor Black advocates the growing of sugar beet in the Waikato.

Building permits granted during the past fortnight only about a fourth of the usual number.

The Bazaar and Christmas Tree at the convent schools, Hobson-street, will be open to-night. Big bush fires at Te Aroha and Napior. Two homesteads at Napier swallowed by the devouring element. A iot of valuable bußh sacrificed at both places, The battery at Te Aroha had sevoral narrow escapes from destruction. Dunedin Harbour Board will introduce a Bill in next session of Parliament to vali date defective leases.

Brigantine Ada C. Owen in with a large cargo of oranges and pineapples from Rarotonga. Those dear, delightful unemployed could not do without their holidays: of course they will start in a week or so again ! There is sure to be the usual crush at the free performance of "The Messiah" to mor row afternoon.

Auckland Harbour Board will on Tues day next have a further discussion of tho Frozen Meat Company's lease conditions.

The volcano on the new island in the Tonga group continues active, but does not throw up such quantities of matter as for merly For the lawn tennis tournament at Napier, tho Auckland representatives, Messrs Carr and Hudson, have taken their departure. The new Empire Hotel in Victoria-street West is to be of brick, and two stories high. Tenders are called by Mahoney and Son, architects.

Hon. Mr Ballance goes to Napier on Tuesday next to attend an important native meeting to take place in that neighbour hood.

At Abbott's Opera Houeo the water-blast has been introduced to improve the ventila tion. Another row of orchestra ttnlls has been added, among other improvements to this popular house.

THE DAY'S EVENTS.

[by hippona,]

President: Mr Thos. Morrin ; Vice-Presi dent: Mr John Kirkwood; Stowarda: Messrs A. K. Taylor, J. Rußsell. J. H. M. Carpenter. H. P. Barber, P. Comiakey. Thos. Williameon, R E. Isaacs, K. Mitohelson, M.H R., H \V Henderson. Colonel Dawson, and mombers of tha Committee ; Judge : Mr Thos. Morrin : Starter: Mr Thos. Stephens; Treasurer, Mr John Marshall; Clerk of soales: Mr P w Marks; Clerk ot, course, Mr J. Ohadwlck : Handioapper: Mc J. O. Evetf, Sooretary, Mr William Percival. '

No doubt the big attraction to-day for the great bulk of the public was the Auckland Racing Club Summer Meeting at Ellerslie, From 9 o'clock this morning little groups might be seen assembled at various points in Queen Street eagerly discussing thepro3 and cons, of the different horses engaged in The Cup, and a glance at the numerous pedestrians making their way towards the railway station later in the morning was quite enough to convince tho onlookers that the big racing event of Auckland wa ß at hand Added to this the air resounded with tho cry of the card-sellers, while in the vicinity of Tatteraall'a the scene was further added to by tho metallicians calling the odds The morning broke beautifully fine, but as it wore on the sky became cloudy and over cast, and there seemed every appearance

of rain falling. The atmosphere was aIBO dreadfully close and oppressive. No speculation of note took place at Tattersall's rooms this morning, and 100's to 30 wero offered on tho field for tho Cup, while thoro w.oro offers of level hundreds that the big race could not be picked in twico. Last night, 400 to 20 was accoptod about Capsize on behalf of his owner, and for tho Hurdlo Raco, Alaric camo into notice, being hacked to win that ovent at 100's to 30, when 50 to 20 became tho best offer. Necklano was backed in conjunction with Macaroni for the Hurdles, at 100' ato G, and 100's to 33, wore accepted that Scot Free wins tho MicUummer Stakos.

Racecourse, 1.30 pro, Since last season the Club have made several great improvements to the course and its surroundings, the principal boing the now grand stand, which no doubt surpasses anything of its kind in tho colony. At present, only tho lower portion is com pleted, but even by this the inconvenience of over-crowding has been entirely done away with, and all are enabled to viow tho races in comfort. The commodious luncheon and retiring rooms are also quite a feature of the structure, and it is evident the secretary, Mr W. Percival, has left little undone for his patrons to growl at. The course and its pretty surroundings look their very best, while they havo been i greatly added to by numerous pot plants dotted on the lawn, and a profuse display of bunting waving from the stands, altogether makes the scene look a charming one. It is estimated that tho attendance numbers 8,000," and among thoso present are Admiral Tryon and the offices of H.M S. Nelson. Mr Impoy's band occupios its usual place on the lawn. The weather is boautifully fine' Kinirask has been scratched for tho Hurdlo Race, and Brigadier, Torori, Potroleum, and Tamora for tho Midsummer Stakes. A man namod B. Stevens has just been arrested for carrying on gambling on tho course by moans of an illegal instrument.

M'aidkn Plate of lOOsovs., with n sweepstakes ot 330 VS. each to bo to nocowl horso. vv olpht for apro. For all horses that have never won an advertised prisn of 25sovs. at tho tiuio of entry. Distance, li mile.

Mrs C. H. Lushington's eh f Lionefs, by Leolinus—Miss Laura, 3yrs, 7st 7ib (Sutherland) ■■• •! Mr M. Donahor'a b g Contractor, aged, 9st lib (Taylor) 2 Colonel Fraser's b g Kaiwaka, fiyrs, 9st lib, including 21b over (Wattie)... 3 Also started— Mr John Marshall's b g Musk, 3yrs, 7st 91b (Bvers) 0 Mr R. Peck's br g Blarney, syrs, 9st lib (McCluskey) 0 Rotting—2 to 1 against Lioness and Con tractor, 4 to 1 Kaiwaka and Musk, 5 to 1 Blarney. Blarney was the first to get on his logs, followed by Contractor and Musk, with Lioness last. By the time the stand was reached Blarney was Btill in front, with Kaiwaka and Lioness about a length in the rear, and Musk, ovidontly outplaced, last. Blarney continued to lead the field till the cutting was reached, when Kai waka forged ahead. Lioness beingsecond and Blarney third. Lionoss still continued to improvo her position, and she led tho field round the back stretch into tho turn for home, with Contractor second, and Kaiwaka some threo lorgths away, third. After this tho rnno was never in doubt, for Lioness coma away and won easily by two lengths, Contractor, on whom tho whip was busy, was second, and Kaiwaka an indifferent third. Time, 2min. 45!jeec. Totalisator dividend, £3 Is.

Tdb Midsummer Stakes of 200snvs.„ with a swccpst'ikes of Esovs. ench to ro to second horse. V»r two-year-olds. Colts, Bst 101b;

fillies! 89t 51b. Six furlongs. Mr D. McKinnon's b g Scot Free, by Sterlingworth— Dainty Ariel mare, Bst 71b (Taylor) 1 MrsC. H. LudMngton'sbf Lady Norah, by Musket-Steppe, Sst 51b (Edgo cumbo) " Mr P. J. Buxton's br f Ricochet, by Musket—Erycina, Bst 51b (Thompson) 3 Also started: Mr \V. Somerville's g c Cannon, by Musket-Maid of Athol, Bst 101b (Byors) 0 Mr J. Balmain's br c Musk Rose, by Musket, Sst 101b (McClusky) 0 Mr J. Marshall's b c Howitzer, by

Mußket-Titania, Set 101b (Sullivan) 0 Mrs C. H.'fLuahington's b c General Thornton, by Apremont-Nolly Moore, Bst'lolb(Bickey) 0 Mr R. Peck's b c Cvemorne, by Cadogan —Miss Laura, Bst 101b (Hodson) ... 0 Messrs Lyon and Blaikie's b>- c Catesby, by Musket—Prunella, Sst 101b (G. ■Williams) 0 Betting-2 to 1 against Scot Free, 4to 1 Cannon and Kicoche t, 5 to 1 Howitzer and Cannon. Scot Free, Catesby, and Crcmorne were the first to get away, the rest being in a cluster. After a furlong had beontravorsed, Scot Free led tho field by two lengths, with Catesby and Ricochet in close attendance ; and Mr McKinnon 'a colt cutting out tho running at a good pace, led into the straight, with Ricochet in close attendance. Opposite tho old stand lady Norah came with a rush, but she was unable to get up to Scot Free, who succeeded in beating her by a neck, Richochet two lengths away third. Timo, lrain. 45scc. Totalisator dividend, £3 Bs. Auckland Cup Handicap of I.OOOsovs., added to a Bweopstakea of lesov. each; Eeound horse to receive 2Cflsovs.; and third horso lOOsovs. out of stakes. For three-year-olds and up wards. The winner of nnj rueo of the value of 200sovs after tho declaration of the weights to carry 31b extra; of two such races, 51b. Two and a quarter milos. Major F. N. George's eh h Nolson, syrs, 7st 81b (W. Brown) 1 Mr W. Douglas's br m Waitiri, oyrs, 7st 21b (A. Woods) 2 Mr J. Allwell's eh m Victoria, syrs, Gst (Pearson) 3 Also ran Mr Dan O'Brien's br h Tasman, aged, 9st (ilb (J. Keane) 0 Mr John Marshall's blk h Turquoise, Oyrs, Bst 111b. (Byers) 0 Hon. W. Reeve's eh c Stoneyhurst, 3yrs, 7st 111b (H. Thompson) 0 Mr John Marshall's br m Necklace, 4yrs, 7st Sib (Sutherland) 0 Mr John Marshall's Radames, syrs, 7et 71b (Huxtable) 0 Mr W, Howard's br m Woodnymph, 4yrs, 7st 51b (T. Taylor) 0 Mr P. J Buxton's b c Foul Shot, 3yrs, 7st(D. Morrigan) 0 Mr F. B. Gentry's br g Refrigerator, oyrs, 6st 121b (D. Herd) 0 Mr W. Walters's br h Torpedo, 4yrs, Oat !)lb (Dureton) 0 Mr W. Bobbett's br h Totford, 4yrs, Cat 91b (0. Williams) 0 Mr H. Redwood's br h Capsize, <-yrs, 6st6lb (Penny) ..' 0 Mr Jacob Enko's eh g Victory, 5 yrs, sstlolb(T. Lonnnrd) 0 Betting— 3 to 1 Tasman, 4 (o 1 Stonoy hurst and Necklace, 8 to 1 Waitiri, 10 to 1 Nelson, Turquoise, and Torpedo, 12 to 15 to 1 tho others. The following is a, list of the winners of the Cup: —

After one or two breaks away, tbe lot wore despatched to a good start. Tur quoise, Victory, and Tetford were the first to get away, the rest being in a cluster, with Waiiiri last. Round the bottom turn Tetford led the field, his immediate at tendants being Necklace and Foul Shot, Tasman laying fourth. At the three-quarter mile post, Tetford was still cutting out tho running at a strong pace three lengths in front of Necklace and Foul Shot^Tasman and Victory together most prominent of the others in a closely-packed bunch. Along tho top stretch, and passing the Stand, Tetfoid still led the field, Necklace second, Foul Shot third, Victory fourth, and Nelson the most prominent of the otheis, Capsize being about twenty lengths in tho rear, last. Tetford still continued to lead tho field round the bottom turn at a great bat, but by the time the cutting was reached the son of Musket was done with, and Nelson was seen to come out from the ruck. Keane was riding Tasman at this juncture al! he

knew, but ovid, ntlv nitkTT^^^H back of tho cour, 9 the S av&i»- AtT Victoria, Nelson beinVd^ &8t Necklace third, and \__Z 9 oa WP Waited was eomtag T*SB& outside. By the «me Ye ». fl from homo was reached, mSST* »M \ioterta, and the sou of'&^^S tho turn for homo two len.lt _ Tole founds the field, and coming 0 »j» a<J. had no difficulty in winninl °f """*> 7hi lengths, Waitiri on who^^1; #t great effort at the^&^e homo being second, f?™ « two lengths away third, _ijk^ fourth, Tasman filth, and R fi f_.fUac« »as Capsize last. Stoneyhuri w 6 ?? tot «3 minent in any part of the rae? 6Vw Pro- Timo, 4min. Totali«atnr^i- •_, 17s-£2 tickets. tor dlTld«nd, £ 50

Handicap Hurdle Race m .™ swc-pstakea of 3 3 0?e L°£ }?»«, with n horse. Over 9 flights of hnliP Eo >« teS.5 quarter milea. Blw 0I flnrdlea. Twoijj 4 Mr W. K. Carter's br g Alari„ ,y„ * (Key) - ... '"^'^fib Mr P. Martin's er a Jlacarm,;'" - 1 (Lyford) ... B illacatol«. a, I2st Mr B. Thompson's b c Tim „""«,'- 2 (Frewin) ..f .. S ' a> 9s*7lb Also Btarted—Miss firiffiti,,. "... '" 1 Belle. ltwasagoodSfVHand the last hurdlo,

AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SUMMER MEETING.

ELLERSLIE ON CUP DAY.

(Br ANTkßoi'oi)

The Auckland Cup, run on each recurring Boxing Day at Ellorslie, may not be an occasion>f such colonial importance as the Melbourne Cup; but it is, in increasing degree, an event of no little moment in the Bporting world, while to the largo and populous provinco of Auckland, it is a

ho'iday entitled to the premier place. Tho j causes of this are not far to seek. From , the sporting standpoint, the importance of < Cup Day lies chiefly in the fact that here are tested very frequently the young blood stock trained by the Auckland Stud Com pany, and sporting men from all the Aus tralasian colonies keenly watch the per formance of the youngsters to guide them in purchasing a "winning horse" for the groat races of tho Southern Hemisphere. For tho public, Boxing Day at Ellorslie mean 3 the witnessing of a series of contests not excelled in any part of the world; it means, too, an occasion for hilarious holidaying and exciting "invest ment j" it means to some the annual re union uf families and friends at an alfresco picnic and entortainmont; to others it means an opportunity for tho study of human nature in its most rabidly gregari ous phase ; ladias fair go there to soe and bo seen ; "sharps " go there to swindle, and "flatß"to be swindled; and evfen the philanthropist and religionist go there—to do good, of course, by tract distribution ! Boxing Day is a general holiday, and from all parts of the surrounding country people flock into town to sco the sights. The races on this day aro better patronised, too, bocauso tho simple buehman nnd hardy minor have not, as a rule, yot succeedod in "molting" tho substantial cheques which they havo brought from their out-of the-way locations to spend in tho dissipations of tho great city, and aro here in full tig of "loud "pants, wideawake hat and coloured necktie, spond-1 ing their money liberally and ostentatiously, j Cup Day at Ellerslio, in short, is the great event of tho Christmas holidays in Auckland district, and from tho celebrity of our blood-stock and tho increasing importance attaching in consequence to our race meet ings, it is plainly destined at no remote date to becomo tho chief sporting event of New Zealand—as momentous on occasion and ono as largely attended as the Melbourne Cup Day is at present. Such a holiday gathering must be worthy of consideration from the standpoint of the sociologist and anthroposoph'ißt, for it is on such occasions that human nature is likely tc display itself in its true colours, while the bearing of groat festivals on national and individual charactor and happinessis too well known to require mention. The season is all that can bo desired for an open-air fete : it is when the fresh juvenility of spring is giving place to tho riper charms of our glorious northern summer ; when not only aro the bodily powers exuberant and seek i ing for porno outlet, but when the town is , just sufficiently hot and stuffy to make people long for a breath of purer, freer air. As old Gay put it, two centuries ago —

"'Tis not that rural sport* nlono invite, But that the grateful country breathes delight.

It is this twofold attraction that draws thousands to the sylvan slopes of Ellers lie on Boxing Day. Many go there, like tho writer, who havo no pleasure in "tho speed of horses, or in the legs of a man ;" in fact, tho " races" might be con sidered as a mero adjunct or " accidental " — the chief thing boing what the darkoy called tho great " hutnon raco !"

On tho Way to tho Races.

Suppose us on our way this morning, ac tuated by those motives, gravitating along with tho great mass of humanity to the scone of these Olympic games. Disdaining tho cheap and nasty trip, by rail, behold us seated in ono of those composito vehicles which a copious colonial vocabulary calls a " buggy," spinning along Kyber Pass Road, amid a grand collocation of mounted humanity. Various indeed are the forms of locomotion adopted. Horo is a grand open baroucho drawn by spanking greys, with some Colonial Cra'ius acd his lady resting on tho luxurious cushions; thoro comes the commodious " sociable," with a well-to-do eettler and his wife and family drawn by a brawny horse that seems to smell of tho plough ; before us is a hansom cab, containing two sporting gents resplen dent in bright new suits and shiny bell toppors ; behind como rattling a lot of mis cellaneous two and four whoolers, ranging from the rospectablo cab to the tumble down "shandrydan" of some struggling "cockatoo." Pedestrians thero aro,"too, in considerable number, who toil and swelter along the dusty road, and in strik ing contrast is yonder bicyclist, or that iady and gentloman mounted on high-step ping chestnut steeds. But diverse though bo the station and seeming of the hundreds of woll-dreesod peoplo, they are oil animated by a comrr.»n aim, and all wear an expres sion of joyous expectancy. In fact

I looked along tho road : It was lined with shining faces, All driving up, ding dong— All going to see tho Races!

Merrily we rattle through the new borough of Newmarket; more merrily still past that abolished toll-bar, which once was an obstaclo to the progress ; very few of the train pause for a " refresher " at the Junc tion Hotel; but all aro borne along by that seemingly uncontrollable impulse to bo early at tho Bcone of the day's sports. What a cloud of dust as the minglod traffic sweeps along the Great South Road ! What a sceno of gay confusion as the vehicles, equestrians and pedestrians turn into Green Lane, and nearly choking that thoroughfare, struggle along to the racecourse entrance 1 Though the goal is won, there is as yet no mating. The surging mass prosses into the expansive racing ground, and each in dividual seeks out a point of vantage from which to observe the day's events.

On tbe Conrso,

Although the races have not yet started thoro aro several thousands on the ground and " tho cry is still--They come !' Omni busses drivo in and disgorge their packed occupants, a pedestrian stream is con tinually percolating past those who sit at tho receipt of custom, while the railway trains send in their hundreds at intervals of ton minutes or bo. As they arrive, all add to tho busy ecene, as they rush hither and thither before fixing upon a suitable spot. Those who come more for outing than for sport, gravitate towards tho clump of pines on tho little eminence near the Grcenlano entrance, and at that point there is tho usual collection of ouambusses, cabs, carriage?, express carts, and other vehicles. Horses are unyokod and stabled or turned out to broweo ; hampers aro unpacked, and already you can hear corks go pop, and liquids go " gluggity - gluggity - glug !" Thoso whoso chief end is to work a little "sweep" or invest a"soy." or two on the legal gambling machir,», gravitate to the neighbourhood of the Grand Stand, where thc.-o is even now a gorgeous array of ladies' costumes intermingling with the crowd of masculine humanity. As the time for sending off the first race draws nigh tho scone becomes more ani mated. The saddling paddeck is the centre of attraction, and there tha Racing Club officials, tho "books," and the jockeys mingle, and jostle, and gesticulate and shout. The " lawn " adjoining, with Grand Stand behind, form a picturo^of beauty and life. The band is discoursing lively music, and groups of ladies in their light and many hued summer attire are engaged in sprightly conversation, which I fancy.must De more on social and fashionable topics than on the merits of Blarney, Empress, or. Contractor for tho Maiden Stakes, The crowd of gentlemen on the Btops behind forms a fitting background to the ecene, and many of theso, I can see, are as busy, admiring the " form" of some bright particular star among the ladies as others are hard at work noting the points, condi tion and "form" of the horses being saddled. The other stands have their full comple ment of spectators, and the course is lined with carriages, cabs, and a densely-packed human throng. Everywhere, as the horses are led out, we can sco "penoillers" at work laying the odds—" two to one, bar one," and the rest of it; and family parties are making up their " sweeps " of a " bob' or "half-a-bull." While the minor races are being run, let us go

Bound tho Booths and Stalls, and see how the non-sporting part of the multitude are enjoy ingthemselves. The at tractions are indoed various, In addition to the licensed drinking booths, which do a roaring traffic all day, there are refreshment stalls in abundance. The cheoring but non-inebriating tea is boing manufac tured in large quantities, smoking pies and frozen ice-creams are set out to tempt the palate, with fruit, confectionary, pastry, and bread and sandwiches in abundance. Here are stands which show much ingenuity of device in the way of catching the nimble sixpence ; shooting saloons, in which the gambling element is judiciousl/introduced to temper the skill of the practised marksman; games of chance, with tremendous odds, apparently, in favour of the player and against the owner; and in odd corners private and ex

cited groups engaged at " smut, undor and over;- m... other illegal but lucrativo methods of amusement, it is the strongest lunged- that, generally speaking, succeeds beat in drawing crowds to his little arrangement, and by tho law of the survival of the fittest, the leather chested individual is the one who makes his pile most rapidly. "H«M«» are! IS ever venture, never win! Billy Fairplay and Comical. Tommy! Here 1 Here! Here! Here!" Such are the shouts given forth by a seedy-look ins individual who has before him a Btiall table full of little cavities containing numbers, with tho rudo iignro of a man erect at one end of it. This eiligy has a spiral cavity extending from his head to his heels, and down this a mat bio is sant careering—the rosult of the betting being determined by tho particular cavity in which it rests, Crack ! crack !go tho euris at a dozen eliooting saloons, and up^ foarious is the laughter and plaudits that accompany the explosions. Many hun dreds of people surround these and loss legitimate games, taking no interest what ever in the progress of the races ; dozens of others are "guzzling" at the various booths; and still more are gaping in wonder at the antics of a monkey which one gambler has on band to draw attention to his business, or admiring the working of a miniature steam engine which another has harnessed to tho work of turning a " wheel of fortuno "—that is, fortune to him, but wM's-fortune to the investors. As we look on these sharpers of different denominations we cannot help wondering where they have all como from. Do they come over from tho London " slumß " for the occasion ? Or are they part and parcel ot our colonial community, living it may be for the better part of the year on tho profits of a few such days as this ? I fancy 1 can recognise among them one or two faces that I haveseon figuring at meetings of tho " unemployed," but certainly they nro now busily enoug employed. Passing tho "to talisators" wo see a solid mas 3of mon and youths struggling forward, oach grasping tho stako of 20s, which they desire to place upon their "fancy." Not much eign of "depression," methinks, in the sight of five hundred pounds being swept into the maw of the betting mochino 1 It may bo that "things are not what they seem," and that these hard-working people, so eagerly »parting with their coin, are "betting their bottom dollar " in their des peration—conceiving this to be a sure way of retrieving their fortunes ? Who knows? There are many things queoror than this dono by men ; but wo have no timo to philosophise. Come along horo to tho west ward, and sco if we can obaorve any better condition of things

Among tho Family Parties.

Here on this rocky eminence overlooking the course, and commanding a view of nearly the whole circuit, aro several thousands of peoplo clustered, part stand ing, sitting, and reclining - many in carts, cabs, carriages, and oven on the tops of omnibuses. This place I call- " The Cheap Grand Stand," for hero a splendid sight is got, not only of tho races, but of the human throng. These are chiefly domestic gather ings, and many entire families may hore be seen indulging in a lunch which might satisfy nn opicure. The hard timos do not seem to have pressed badly on the sleek pater, tho " substantial " mater familias, or tho woll-dressed sons and daughters clustered on tho green sward. Mingling with tho crowd who are closest to the course, we find most of them engaged in drawing " sweeps," in which, generally, the stake is half-a-crown. In this pastime men, women, boys, and girls all engaeo, and wo can learn that childron of tender years have froquontly tickets taken in their names, because thoy aro supposed to be moro "lucky." In the midst of all, corks keep popping, ham sandwiches, biscuits, fowls, and pastry ore being discussed ; and see yonder is a party who have brought a little cask of beor, and are draining its contents in copious libations. Occasionally there is a slight ebullition of temper and a threatened fight, but tho presence of tho wives and daughters has a soothing effect, and the bolligeronts (like Servh and Bulgaria) aro coerced by the Great Powers (Petticoat Government) into the conclusion of peaco. Thoro arocertainly no signs horeof anything but superabundant plonty ; and the casual visitor to Auckland, who has boon hearing and reading of nothing but "depression," " strikos," *' unemployed," and " starva tion " will here have a few illusions dis pelled. But while woindulge in reflections wo hear an excited buzz, a Babel of voices crying—

" Tho Cup ! They're off!"

Truo enough tho " field" goes thundering past and we must run to the winning post if we wish to see the finish. Here we are safoly in position, ancl the race of tho day will soon be overp What tremendous ex citement there is as tho horses come crash ing down the hill at the eastern corner and come on in thoir headlong career, seemingly moving in gentle undulatory waves, though in reality the pace is terrible. Fivethousand people are packed around this spot, and five thousand voices are shouting "Woitiri," " Stonoyhurst," " Tasmnn," " Nelson," and other names, which are indistinguish able in the confusion. At last the supreme struggle comes : they are within a hundred yards of the post; spurs and whips aro plied ; hats and handkerchiefs are waved ; a flash-and all is over ! The crowd has swarmed over the course, the stands aro being emptied, and thero is a great rush for "dividends" from the betting machine! Who won the race ? I cannot tell you, dear reader; and to tell tho truth for half-an hour or more the crowd generally seem to hold very divere opinions on the subject Excited discussions ensue, and mora than one adjournment takes place "round the corner to sottle tho dispute by gage of battle. Others who are agreed wipe out their feud in flowing bumpers, and those who backed the winner aud have drawn their dividend "shout" in tho fulness of their hearts and roooive the con gratulations of friends with a wild hilarity, which to the unimpassioncd observer tcoms more fervent than if the lucky man had received the honour of Knighthood or the plaudits of his fellows for some virtuous action. Who won the Cup ? Ask tho sporting roporter, but don't ask tne. I don't even ltnow whether it is a gold or silver cup, or a " cup that cheers;" but I think it must be the latter, to judge by the oheering that accompanied tho running for it. All that concerns me is that it is an event of tremendous moment to thou sands of my fellow-citizens—interest in it eclipsing for the time being such questions as the doctrines of the Missioners, the price of wool, or tho latest phase of the carpen ters' strike I After the cup is run I feel comparatively little interest in the proceed ings. I know, as most of my readers must, ithe usual charaoter of tho closing scenes of a day's races—tho gradual thinning out of the crowd, then the final grand struggle to got off first by rail, 'bus, or buggy ; 'tho disagreeable journey back to town, with dust, crowding, alcoholic smolls, and tobacco vapours abundant. Very early in the day, therefore, I withdraw from the busy scene, and enjoy a quiet ramble in those delicious country lanes-mueing as I go in tho words of Allan Cunningham :—

"Thero is a lesson ia each flower, A story In each stream and bowor ; On ovory horb o'or which wo tread Are written words which, rightly read. Will lead you from Earth's fragrant cod To Hopo, and HolinoßS, and Sod I "

C«p Day is over onco more ; and I trust that each reader's recollections of it aro aa pleasant as mine are, and that none loft the course without come lesson drawn from observation and experience there. Even the experience of betting and losing may prove sweeter than that of winning if the lesson is rightly appreciated. But amid the vast crowd who attended this annual gathering there are many hundreds who. like myself, have aims above those of sport] or frivolity, and who, studying the social aspects of the occasion, find much food for moralising in the varied experiences of Cup Day at Ellerslie.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES.

St. Sepulcher's.

There was a very large attendance 8t . f Sepulchre's Church yesterday^ having been announced that the R. T p Bodingten would (by requeat)^'^ farewell sermon. The church wag n^l but not gaudily decorated, thealtar,2 and pillars being wreathed with Christ flowers and evergreens. The ffin^ mottoes, white letters on scarW " Tho Glory of Toy people IS « _ 7We Light to Lighten theGenMles» %&& ".* commenced with tho well-known u lO6 '•Harktheheraldangelsßing,'8 ing,'W a u& n. ofthe first section of the ervi Cet & sang in excellent stylo, the Z^J.' anthem, "Glory to Hod iotta&ft The Venerable Archdeacon Du&f,' the prayers, and Rev. C. ZLlf preached a forcible eermon on."GeZs_. and Kegeneration," entirely doctrinal, and closed by wishing the conweefi. . happy Christmas, as tho last worifi of LI mis.ioner. The evening service was ™ ducted by Archdeacon Dudley,

St. Matthew's Church.

As usual here, the decorations are most elaborate as well as beautiful, every wE ofthe bulding receiving &'3fi£ adornment. No trouble seems tofo'S in getting material friends at a duX readily helping by forwarding the __?■ coveted greenery which it is so hard to nra cure iv or near town ; thu ß Mr Mason am tributes his sbaro from his Ellerslf n grounds, while Captain .. Som errill of the RoseGaßoy, withhisueualgoodnatare brings a quantity of foliage,..&<!., gather^ by Captain Breton, at Mahurangi _f__ As to the decorations themselves, wetaust speak very highly of the sanctuary, where a novel feature here appears in a decoration of ivy-trails, the rails being ornamented with ilo woring grasses In the EaslWindow which is delicately wreathed, is an X ! quißite cross of white flowers, the effect being enhanced by large heads of hydrangea. The pulpit is anias, of gorgeous flowers, and the lectern is en twined with an elegant creeper, in „hid> is embosomed a superb magnolia blo«som. The font is most tastefully wreathed"with holly and oak, studded with white Bowers tho choir stalls being also suitably adorned. Tho organ-loft is' prettily decked'with flowers. On the organ is a very beautiful white star, and on the walls appropriate texts well executed in gold and colours. Every pillar is wreathed, and on every cipital i? a chaplet, whilst every; door and window head has had its share of attention, The services commenced with a celebration of Holy Communion at 8 a.m., when ayery large number communicated,-as was again tho case at the mid-day celebration,l In this latter service, Barnby'eant ,3mj,''girig and Rejoice," was capitally snhg by the choir, as were also a Te Detini'bjr Smart, and Benedictns1 by Winchester. . In the evening, soon after 7 o'clock,jpeople began to gather in the churchyard, and by 8 o'clock there was a crowded Con gregation assembled, many .landing in the porches. The service commenced with tho Lord's Prayer and three collects read by the incumbent, after which the musical service was proceededjtitbj the organist having commenced with "For Unto us," as a voluntary, played in,his usual good style. During the collection of the offertory, the voluntary was Bcotsbn Clarke's " Angel's Chorus," which contain. an exquisite flute obligate, which was beau tifully rendered, as was also the concluding voluntary, a "Festal March" by Weber, The vocal selection comprised carols,and the Christmas portion of "Tha Messiah," the first number of which taken wae the recitative "Beholda Virgin," followed by the air and choruß " 0 Thou That Tellest, t here alto solos being sweetly and accurately sung by Mrs Tebbs. Next followed th 6 Pastoral Symphony, which, it is needless to say, was faultlessly executed by iMr, Barnett. The four trebleieeitatives,". here Were Shepherds j" "Lo ! the Angel," "The Angel Said," and "And Sud denly," followed, the.two. former-being taken by Mrs Morrin, and the two latter by Mi-s Mary Halstead, both of whom_sitig with their accustomed taste and precision. The chorus "Glory to God," was an ex cellent number, as was Miss Halatead's rendering of the air " Rejoice Greatly.' Mrs Tebbs then took the recitative "Then Shall the Byes," and the air "HeShall Feed His Flock," in a moat, tasteful and pleasing manner, as also,;, did Mrs Morrin the concluding air "Gome Unto Him." The carols " Good Christian Ken, Rejoice," and "The First Nowell-'ptecw^ ing "The Messiah" and the carol hymn " While Shepherds Watched" (Baraby) and tho c«ol "A Virgin Unspotted (.N .G. Barnett) which followed it roe really beautifully sung by the, choir. The hymns 59 and 63 (A. arid U.) "0 Conio All Ye Faithful," and W Saviour Lord," were sung with thruung effect by the vast congregation, the un accompanied verses being most *w™fr The whole Bervice, in short, was one of the greatest treats, whether viewed from , musical or religious point of view, tnat we have had afforded us for somi;W Tho decorations wiil remain up over Wj morrow, and the anthem "Sing «?a llojoice" will be repeated at the evening service, whon tho incumbent will P&pr T sermon on "Tha True Method of Salva tion."

St. Patrick's.

Tho services at St. Patrick's ya^W wore of more than usual intereat. Xfiere woro several morning services bewera | o'clock and 10 and 11 o'clock, Bi#fi|Sl celebrated pontifical high mass. ™c very Rev. Father Walter McDonald acted aj aesistant priest, and thero was a full stallol deacons and deacons of the &">**■ "'; Bishop preached a very praotl<*ljJf"S on tl"e festival ofthe day. The eto rendered Mozart's first mass, the prinap soloists being Miss Stauntcn aad w, Hiecocks. The Christmas offlnte" *«•■ very liberal, amounting to a totalpt *««•, :

St. Benedict's.

At St. Benedict's yesterday, Bee*""*;. Mass in C was performed by m*BB under the baton of Mr Knox, We »^ only say that both tolos and otorgj were exceedingly well rendered, «* orchestra, led ly Mr Charles Hemu. helped in a very efficient way *£&, ply the deficiencies caused •«*ftfflSß of an organ. The Very Rev. Mf •& 0.5.8., sang the High Mass, ***$* Downey preached the sermon. gPMSSt wa. tastefully decorated, and «"*g. the canopy over the tabernacle " W » week before last by tbe Rev. ?»^W of Kihikihi. Mr KnoJ: received «.very flattering testimonial and a puree oi reigns from the Fathers and th£jgg£ of the choir and a few/nends. ™«a was beautifully "I"^°* n T v anbefore by the Very Rev. Father Sullivan w. •the High Mass commenced, Mr made a suitable reply. TM » the Mass wore well »n^fM»l Stephenson (Sonrano), W \% , (alto), Mr J. % ard* (™ £* the _j Knox (baas). The oSe^% O SM ' " Aderlo Fideles," *™nP\v*ShW- was capitally rendered *ffigg&: son and Ba ß lan and MW _Xl morn- Edwards. The ctohwS7 6 , B ; ~ ing and evening, father Wieeel." .0 . E ang the Vesper, and tto W Father Sullivan, 0.5.8., gave i"» . ~ tion, - '

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAB,' SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26, 1885.



Auckland Cup.— Two miles and a quarter.*

Season

1874-5 1875-6 1876-7 1877-8 1878-9 1879-80 1S80-1 1881-2 1882-3 1883-4 1884-5 18S5-6

Owner. j Winner. I A. Wgt. i |st lb Mr F. Deiamain j Templeton 4 8 11 Mr W. Waltere I Kingfisher '■ 5 6 10 Mr Watt j Ariel 14 8 2 Mr F. Bolton ! Lara 5 7 7 Mr A. McDonald ' Ariel j 0 I 8 13 Mr M. Edgar I Ariel j a \ 8 10 Mr H. Lance Foul Play 6 8 12 Mr S. Horsfall King Quail I 6 | 7 4 Mr J. Pllbrow I Welcome J'k ! 3 7 8 Mr R. Vallance j Salvage I 5 8 8 Mr G. Bate The Poet ; a 6 12 Major George Nelson • 5 7 8

Rider.

Wattio Stuart Brimner Campbell Matthews Matthews Dorritt Geach Butler Williams Williams W. Brown

Time m. s. 3 oil

3 52} 4 27 4 21 4 23i 4 16 4 8 4 7 4 9.1 4 18i 4

Fi

•om 1877-8 the distance lias been two miles and a quarter.



TVSEABES OF THE EYE, EAR, JL. THROATS AND CHEST. DR. WILKINS, CONSULTING & OPERATING SURGEON, Is at his Surgery for General and Special Practice all morsingsand afternoons. Sunday, 10 to 12 30. Charges moderate. 17 years as London and Colonial Hospitals. Adjusts Spec tacles to sight. Consulting Rooms. Queen btbbbt, (opposite Shortland-atreet). Auckland. T\ JL, HUXTABLE, DISEASES OF THE EYE AND SPECIALIST IN THROAT AND EAR DISEASE, Formerly at Mackenzie's Kvo Infirmary, and lately from the Hospitals ot London, Paris, and Vienna, - Having returned to Auckland, may be consulted at King & Sons', Queen-street, daily, from 11 to 12 o'clock. Private Residence: Ponsonby Road, near corner of Lincoln-street.



GO TO FOB BEDSTEADS V CARPETS \ LINOLEUM \^\ PERAMBULATORS \r^\ BEDDING \*<_j\ SPRING MATTRES- V^\ SES VL \ TOILETWARE \fy\ FENDERS & IRONS \\>CY OFFICE FURNI- Y7~\ ture * DINING ROOM AND SITTING ROOM f"\ DRAWING ROOM Vx\ BED ROOM VLA FURNITURE \r^\ AMERICAN, \A\ AUSTRIAN BENT \ y_ WOOD \^2-\ CHAIRS & STOOLS \(>\ WARDROBES \y*A SIDEBOARDS Vl_A CURTAINS yr blinds BLANKETS Tiu Cheap gHEE , f . ' HOUSE FURNISHERS ' A „ D EVMY QUEEN-STREET, Vuuau oJ. nam*, H( J USE RKQUIBITEi AUCKLAND, j



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R. GEO. G. KENNY, M.8., CM. (lato Resident Surgeon Wellington Hospital,and Publio Vaccina tor for the District of Wellington), may be Consulted Dally at his Residence. VAUXHALL ROAD. DEVONPORT, from D TO 10 A.M. 2 TO 3 P.M. 6.E0 10 8 P.M. G. BARTLETT, CHRONOMjKXEt. • MAKER AND JEWELLER. A large Stock of Ladifb' and Gents' Gold and Silver Lever Watches of superior finish, a new and well-assorted Stock of Gold Broochos, Ear rings, &c„ Ladies' and Gents* Gold and Silver Alberts. Wedding Rings, Engagement and DrBSB Rings, Gents' Signet Rings. E ec'rp Plate, Marble Clock*. &c. Gouts' English Levers, at £3 10b ; guaranteed. 154, Queen-street, Established 1862. X*T F. HUBBARD, C.E., ARCHITECT AND SURVEYOR. Water Supply and Drainago Specialties. C 2, Queon-stteet.



A RATTLESNAKE'S ef tho rattlesnake has ; «S »« as the more insidious but dewusy^jj ji? In tho air of foul rooms, lhe 'JgS&M *?£ I blood by tho lungs becymeaimp^-eat times, and tho falling he^tb,KW™«,rf^ oess. and loss of appetite are hM»^ p m mi proaching death. ForiSSfrirffliS/^J^W aro the potent and aU-poww^J^fcebW* all f evera out of the a^__mm» ot ■ U&.. '■ and giving a new and WWW ~ y Notioe. , ......,': yy