COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &c, To-night.

Alexandra Btroet-Christnias Tree, &0.,0 till 10. Uonvont School, Wynflhniii-atrect-Chrlßtmaß Tree and Fanoy Work, 3 till 10.

A.0.5., City of Auckland-Monthly Meeting.B. Irish National League—Catholio Institute. 8. Forostorc'Hall-Urama, Faroe, nnd Concort, 7.30.

St. James's Hall-MeetlDg of Building Trade, 7.30.

Working Men's Club—Builders' Labourers Quarterly Meeting, 7.30.

Lome-street Hall—Debate, 8.

Auction Sales To-morrow.

Morton and Jackaon—Steamur Isabol, 11.30 a.m.

Samuel Cochrano and Son—Furniture, 11 a.m. Edward Leydoti—Christmas Presents, 11 a.m, Gabriel Lewis -Unredeemed Pledges, 11 a.m. Hunter and Nolan—Wool Sale, 2 p.m.

1). Tonks and Co.—Qooseberrios and Figs, Ham.; Chrißtmas Presents, 2 p.m.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

HaUa will clone oa under i—

This Day,

For Taurangn, and Opotikl, por Wellington, at 5

p.m. For Wangarel Hoods, Parua, Waipu, Wangarei, and Kamo, por WatUki.utS p.m. For Tnaines, per Kiitorprlßa, at 0.30 p.m.

TnoHSDAY, December 21

For Port Fltzroy, Tryphena, and Okupu, por

Arjrylo. at 7 a.m. For walwera, Te Kapa. Warkworth, Sec, por Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Piuiki. Cowob, and Cororaandel, perCoro-

mandul, at 11.30 a m. For Gisborno, Napier, Soutttern ports, and Australian Colonies, por Ringarooma, at 11 a.iH. For money orders, registf-red letters, and newspapers, at 10 a.m. Lato lettors till 11.20 a.m. For Wangarcl I leads, Paraa. Walpu, Wangarei, Kamo and Manvapai, per Glenelg. at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana. at 4.30 p.m. (Tor Thames, per Enterprise, at 7 p.m.

Saturday, December 26.

For Gisborne Napier, and Southern Forts, par Malta!, at 9 a.ri. ForWalwera, To Kapa, andWarkwoitli, por Hobo Oueoy. at D a.m. For Waitara and Southern ports, por Gairloch, at 9 a, Tii. For Whanearei Heads, Parua, Waipu, Whan- Kit roi. nnd Kamo. por Maogregor. at 9 a.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 9 a.m.

TnurtSDAY, December 31,

For Friendly and Navigators'lslands, Tahiti, and Itarotuuga, per Janet Nicoll.

Tuesday, January 6. Per Alamcdn as follows !'— For Navigntor ialandn, SauawlAh i3i&mj\ UaJtocl StatiM oJ Awarico, Canada. liritiph 'Jorambla, Central md Sontlj America, and British ar.J Foreign West Indioc, at 1 r.m For Unitod Kingdom :ir.d Uonunsnt of Europe, at 1 p.m Monoy ordeia. 10.30 p.m. Reglctsrcd lettero und asmjiapai's. i;v 11.30 p.m. Late letters. boaniw nn exuu ror oi sis ponce in addition to tie poßtagp. will be reoeived by the Mall Agent on hoard the steamer np to the time cf galling, This nisU will bo due In Ijonrton about Feb. 10.

Note —Friday, 25th instant (Christmas Day) ■will be observed as a Postal Holiday. All mails for dospatoh on that day will be olosed on Thursday, 24th instant, at 7p m. The Delivery Department will be open on Thursday night, from 7to 8 o'clock. On Boxing Day the Post office will be open in all branched from 9 to 10 a.m., and the usual despatch of malls will close at 9 a.m,

Note.—The Government steamer Stella will leave the Bluff for Woat Coast Sounds, on or about the 29th inst.

Sinned) S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster. Chlof Post-offlce. Auckland,

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

BUNBBI.—This ovenlng, 7.11. SirNRiSK.—To-morrow morning, 4.1C Moon'b AGK.—Last Quatter, 29th, 01 a.m.

HIGH WATER.

Auckland This evening, 7.15; to-morrow mornin?, 7.39.

Mavwuau tifhVß— This evening, 9.55J; to-mor row morning, 10 19. BUrPAiM a»Ai s-Thißcren'ng, 10.55; to-mor row morning, 11,19.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY,

Wellington, h.h.. Stovenpon, from Taursnga Ringarooma, B s,, Pouham. I! om Russell (juenn, echr., Jones, from Hokiftngu

DEPARTURES.

I.AST EVENING. Macgrcgor, b.b,, Johnson, for Whangarei

STEAMERS TO ARRIVE.

Enterprise, from Thames, to-n orrow, 3 am. Cl <Dsman, from Kusaell, Friday Kaikoura, from Plymouih, via Port Chalmois,

about January 10 Coromandel. from Coroinan'lol. to-day, 8 p.m. Argylo. from Mercury Bay, Thursday Janet Nicoll, from South, early Ulcnelg, from Whangorel, this evening Ohau, from 3 ;ulli, Thursday Maitni, from South, Friday Rotomahano, from Thames,tomorrow, 1 p.m. [For projected departures see chipping ad vertisements and mall notices.]

Inwahds Coastwise. — Knuri, from Port Chtries, with 16 logs; Leo, from Kufs=ll, with £6 tons coal; Waiteniuti. from Mangawai, with ao.OOOtt timber; Ghost, from Manga wai, with 17 logs

OcnvAßDs Coastwisb.—Morning Lhht, for Waihcke, in ballast.

The schoiner Queen brought from Hoklan<;a 10 ?ackß gam, 26 bags wool, 20 (nipty kens and 11 tons pundriee. PassoDgers : Mrs Jones, Miss Williams.

The barquo Presto cleared at tho Customs to day for Sydney, in ballast.

The schooners Sovereign and Kenilworth, from Auckland via Whangapoua, arrived at Timaru yesterday.

Messrs Henderson and Macfarlano have chartered tho barquo PoJycirp to load at this port for London, to follow the Coronllla.

The brigantine Nettie's cargo of gum amounts to J&SJ tons, valued at £20 212.

The sb. Rintrarooma arrived from Russell early this morning. Passengers: MrNeildand family (2>, Messrs Dove and Kichie. Misses Gibbs and Bartloman. The Ringarooma goes SDiuh at noon to-morrow.

The s.e. Waitakl has been docked for cleat Ing.

The ships Uermione nnd Tiouglas are now fully due, the former being U7 and tho latter 9) days out from London.

The following are the values of cargo shipped per Sam Mendel for London :— Tallow, J32.172; gum, £3.031; wool, £28.686; copra, £1,306; leathor, £1.413; appaml, £135; bicycles, £240; pearl shell £i4O; laden, £1,567; bone;. £29; cotton, £261: personal btggage, £50; amberbris £80; hair, £10; tlnnn-i meat, £30: horns, £10 Total declared valua of camo, £39,766.

The b.b. Wellington a'rived from Tauranga this morning. Passengers: Messrs Burnett, Nicholson, J. F. Connolly, G, Gynne, Cummlsgs, Biaflord, Abruina. Atißtio, Gouts, Uwen, Courtney, Sheen, Rceoe, Tamont, Mr and Mrs Crawford Mieatra Flatwood. Austin and Clark, Mastor Brown, biases O'Connor, Wells, Whit combo, Conway and Leoky, 1 prieoner and 2 steerage Tho Wellington leaves again for Tauranga this evening, and will return again on Friday morning.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Thames, this day.—Bailed : Welcome, for Bfisbane, with 106,000 feet kahikatca timber.

Whanoarbi. this day .—Arrived: Macgregor. from Auckland, 6 am. Sailed : Glenelg, for Auckland, 10 a.m. ■ . :•. .

Oammiu. this day.—Sailed: Ship Marl korongh (Herd), with meat, wool, See, valued at •326,270, for London.

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Stab Office, this day. Messrs Cochbanb and Son held a sale of small properties at their mnrt to-day, but only the 3-ronmed house at Helensvllle was Bold at £11% The Fort-street store »as passed. Mr Edward Leydon continued his watoh and jewellery sale to-day. Over £200 worth of jewel lery hare been bo d. Messrs B. Tonka and Co. held a sale of terra cotta goods, manufactured by Mr Boyd. The prices were satisfactory.

Deaths.

BATHUUST.-On Deoembor 22, Annlo Mury, the beloved child of Poroy and Agnes Bathur&t: aged four and a-half month?, CGCHRANE.—On December 22, at Ills pironts' residence, Ensom, Athol Mervyn. second eon of William S. and Sophia P. Gochrano; aged three years und threo months.

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

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 1885.

The Grafton Road School Committee have been adversely criticised by our morning contemporary for their action with reference to the school holidays. No doubt they will receive with all humility the admonitions on their presumption in bearding the Board and ttie prosy dissertation on the awful con sequences of their offences. But in the day of humiliation they may find some grains of comfort in the assuranco that their protest against the extraordinary length of th^e summer vacation ex presses a very widely-cherished opinion prevalent among tlie Committee's own constituency. We quite agree that the length of the holidays must, in order to secure uniformity, be fixed by the Board ol Education ; and uniformity is desirable, because without it teachers and scholars will labour under a sense of injustice if the holidays are longer in one city dis trict than in another. This discontent must inevitably manifest itself in diminished numbers at the opening oi the term, and a consequent injury to the school, by deranging the work and lowering the average attendance on which payment of capitation is made. But while all this is perfectly true, it is also true that parents, who deplore their inability to preserve their children from the evil habits contracted in con sequence of being turned out to run the streets for seven weeks, have no remedy against the Board except through the committees. And enough is known from past experience to satisfy anyone that unless the committees do very strongly assert themselves, their wishes will receive very scant respect at the hands of the chief governing body. The only error we detect in the procedure of the Grafton Road Com mittee is the lack of some systematic endeavour to bring about united action among the city and suburban commit tees. We believe that were the parents polled, an overwhelming majority would be found in favour of limiting the holi days to live weeks at. the utmost. Naturally the teachers, with whom the Board officials sympathise, are in favour of the longest term they can obtain. Although looming in such prodigious proportions in the juvenile mind, teachers are but human, and their vaca tion is anticipated with quite as much eagerness by them as by the children. Their calling is also trying and nerve destroying, and requires periods for re cuperation. There is no class with whom we have a fuller sympathy. But the long term of idleness enforced by the Board at Christmas is neither necessary to the good health of the teacher nor conducive to the progress and well-being of the scholar. The children are a source of perpetual anxiety to their parents, and fall back in their educational acquirements so far that half the quarter after re assembling is occupied in pulling up the arrears. If more relaxation were requisite during the summer months it would be better to reduce the hours of daily attendance. Some decisive step to bring the question of holidays under review was wanted, and that the Grafton Committee supplied. Unlike the Tau ranga Committee, who appear to have treated the teacher with ill-merited and venomous severity because he inti mated that he must obey the instruc tion of the Board when it conflicted with that of the Committee, the repre sentatives of the householders in Grafton seem to have worked harmoniously with the head teacher. They asserted their opinions, and per formed a disagreeable duty with as little asperity as the circumstances would allow; and they would have fallen short of their duty if, holding those views and ■ believing that the wishes of the parents went in the same direction, they had failed to appeal against a decision seriously affecting the management of educational matters within their district.

Local Option Polls.

The zeal of the Local Option polling appears to have waned. In Newton, yesterday, Mr Seaman sat all day to receive ten votes against and one in favour of increasing the licenses within the district. If any would-be proprietor of a house in the rising district of Surrey Hills had been on the alert he might have got the first point in his favour. As it is, ten voters have settled the ques tion of licenses in Newton for three years. For Manukau, on the 18th inst., Mr Seaman bad a still more cheerful task ; he received one vote for and one against in the course of the day, and having got rid of the un profitable task for three years by giving his casting vote against, he closed the booth, disgusted at the public apathy. la the polling for Mount Koskill there were two booths open. At Avondsle, 3 votes were recorded in favour, and 12 against new licenses; at Mount BoskiLl, 2 for and 8 against, leaving a majority* of 15 against. The privilege of these local option polls teems

to be so little appreciated that the oppon ents of the Act are furnished with a vory fair argumont when advocating thoir dis continuance.

Tho Star will not bo issued on Friday (Christmas Day). Advertisers should bear this in mind in making thoir announce ments. A Christmas Supplement, containing seasonable stories, poetry, and humorous gleanings, will bo published with to-morrow night's Star. Among the contributions are : " Christmas Greeting,—a Dream of Universal Brotherhood," by J. L. Kelly; "Christmas in London,"by W. 11 "Wills; n Grandmother Grantley's Christmas Stock ing," by Jenny Wren ; " Married in Spite of Himself," by James M. Geddis; "Con trary Winds," by A. A. C.; columns "For the Ladies" and "For the Young Folks," and tho continuation of " Audrey's Recompence " and "Mam'zelle Eugenic," tho serial stories now running in tho Star Saturday Supplement.

The first of Mr Dion Boucicault's sketches of his colonial tour will appoar in tho Staii Christmas Supplement to morrow night. Mr Boucicault in this contribution dos oribea a star actor'a experience in the colonies, showing what he may expect to receive and spend. Incidentally, he makes a number of interesting notes on tho theatres of the colonies and thoir man agement, tho cities visited, and first impressions. Thoso will bo extended in future letters, tho first batch of which wo expect on the return of the R M.S. Mararoa from San Francisco.

The sharemarket is remarkably dull just now, and no business was done to-day. It is hoped that there will be a revival aftor the holidays

The free performance of "Tho Messiah" will be given in tho Choral Hall on Sunday afternoon next, December 27th, at 3 o'clock. Doora will bo open at a quarter past 2.

In the case of Hill v. Brain, at the R.M. Court on Thursday last, tho judgment was not for plaintiff, but for defendant, with costs.

Tho death of Mr Thomas Hamilton, of Pukekoho East, at the early ago of 42 years, removes another of Auckland's set tlers. Deceased was a colonist of fifteen yearsI'standing, and tho most of his time was spent in this neighbourhood. He was at the time of his death a prominent mem ber of the local school committee, a mombor of the Orange organisation, and actively associated with all public movements in the district. His wifo and eight children sur vive him.

The New Zealand Iron and Stool Com pany's large building narrowly escaped destruction by fire yesterday. Tho roof caught fire, and was auickly onveloped in flames, which spreaa with astonishing rapidity, but by tho timely use of the Harden Star Hand Gronado the flumes were quickly subdued and kept undor until tho steam pump was brought to bear. It is estimated that .£IOO will cover the damage sustained ; but had it not boon for the prompt measuroa taken, the loss would have been great. Tho building is insured in the New Zoaland Insurance Company for £1,000.

The Wellington brought from Tauranga a deserter from H.M. service, who will be placed on board of the Nelson

Mr J. 11 Hannan, drapor, has entered upon an action against tho Dovonport Forry Company to recover damagos to the sum of £500 on account of injuries received by himsolf through ono of tho forry stages falling on his foot.

A royal commission of inquiry was privately oponed yesterday boforo Judgo Smith connected with nativa land business, Bad which will be resumed tomorrow. Tho particulars, as far as can be loarnod, related to a case heard sovoral yoars a^'o at Wanga nui, when Judges Willia«nß and O'Brien presided, and in which 'case the lato Mr Sheehan and Mr J. M. Frasor appeared. Tho matter in courso of investigation is to tho effect that tho hapu for which Mr Shoohan appeared was awarded tho land in dispute, and that tne uativo assessor who tat in the case received through Mr Fraaor a chequo for boariug the signature of Mr Mooriiouso. As Mr J. M. Fraser has applied for an interpreter's license, it is necessary that ho should clear himself from all blame in tho matter. Dr. Buller, Major Jackson, Mr Fraser, and Poniare Kingi (assessor) woro examined. Other evidonco will bo taken at to-morrow \s sitting.

Master George Morris, oldest son of tho Hon. Captain Morris, M.L.C. (says the " Bay of Planty Times "), was a passenger by the Clansman yesterday for Auckland whither ho gooa to enter tho Bank of New Zoaland. As a promising lad, who was ulways well to the front in all manly sports, and a genoral favourite overywhero, wo wish him evory success in his now sphere of labours, and fully expect to hear good accounts of him ero long.

Theie was the usual attendance at tho Mission Service in Queon-atreot to-day. Tho Roy. G. E. Mason discoursed on " Our Mission and Teachings." As this was tho last of the mid-day services ; tho missioner bade farewell to his listenors, shook hands, and wished them nil a Happy New Yoar.

Tho annual meeting of tho Protestant Alliance of Australia, Alexandra Lodge, No. 53, was held last evening in the Pro tostanc Hall, when the following officers were elected for tho ensuing year i— E. Dutton, W.M. (re-electod); S. Smith, D.M.; George Bashan, Secretary ; James Donald son, Treasurer (ro-olectod); C. Joint, eon., chaplain; Bros. Durham and Coupland, eldora; Bros. 3. Donaldson and Wilson, Grand Ladgo dole^atos-

Tho Chrißtmas Tree in connection with tho Primitive Mothodist Church, Aloxandro etroet, opens to-morrow (Chiietuias Eve). Thore will bo many interesting articles on the treo as special prizes. Refreshments will be providod, and useful and orna mental articles will be offered for sale. The1 proceeds are to be in aid of Newton and Alexandra-street churches.

Mesara Ponnall and Nicoll, with their usual enterprise, have chartered the Waitaki, and have arranged to viow hor in excursion trips during the Holidays. There is a new departure in this excursion, viz., that instead of going to the old much fre quented places, the Waitaki will run to what is known as Man-o-War Bay. This is a splendid spot to go to, and together with tho trip theio, the beautiful and picturesque scenery, splendid picnicing grounds under the Christmas trees, which are now in full (lower, and tho many other attractions of this interesting locality should specially commend this trip to the atten tion of all holiday-makera, and excursionists can depend upon smooth water all the way. A band will be in attendance. Thore will also be a moonlight excursion around the harbour as far Rangitoto Channel.

The " Tauranga Evening News " says :— " Professor Thomas arrived on Friday to make an inquiry into the disease affecting sheep and cattle in the district. On Friday and Saturday Professor Thomas dissected and inspected some lambs, and to-day was operating on a calf. The Professor leaves here so as to be in Auckland by Christmas, and will return again after the holidays. So far as we can learn, Professor Thomas has detected no sign of lung worm, but worms have been discovered in the nostrils of the lambs. However, no official report will bo made till after the inquiry is com plete."

This morning a horse ridden by a coun try resident, approaching the Newmarket toll-bar, was frightened by dogs. It bolted at full gallop along the road through New market and Parnell, tho rider losinc? all power over the horeo. Opposite the Roman Catholic Church it came into violent col lision with another horse. Tho rider was thrown to the ground, and besides two scalp wounds, sustained seven injuries to various parts of his limbs and body through the horse kicking him. After a timo he managed to make his way to King and Sod's, where his injuries were attended to by Dr. Huxtable. He is doing well, but will be laid up for a time. •

The final Chamber sitting for the present year was held by Mr Justice Gillies yester day morning, when probate waa granted in re Nirainona Pini, David Fort, Patrick Mulkere, Christopher Edwards, John Han cock, and James Finnerty (deceased). In re Harding v. Buller and Another (a New Plymouth case). Mr A. E. Whitaker (for the defendants) appeared in support of a summons calling upon the plaintiff to show causo why the writ should not be set aside or the venue changed to Wellington, Mr Forwood (for the plaintiff) appeared to show cause. After hearing the learned counsel His Honor dismissed the summons with costs (£2 2a). In re Barton Ireland (deceased), Mr Button moved that the executor's final accounts should be passed, and that the executor should be allowed commission in terms of Registrar's report, viz., 5 per cent. His Honor said he would take time to consider the matter.

A prayer-meeting will be held in St. John's Wesleyan Schoolroom, Ponsonby, on Christmas morning, at 7 o'clock.

Tho takings at the Onehunga Presby terian Bazaar amounted to nearly £220, which iB considered highly satisfactory.

The following will represent the Franklin Cricket Club in thoir match against the Thames on Boxing Day:—Service, Btinv son, Stichbury, Sheddon, Nightingale (2), lions, Potter, Andrews, Tattersall, ;Mar croft. Emergency, Peot.

The Grand Stand for thoCaledonian sports on New Year's Day is rapidly approaching completion. Perhaps no bottor space could be found for theso New Year's Day sports than the paddock of the Government House. The ground is level, and in ex cellent condition.

The Naturalists' Field Club advertiso an oxcursion to the Waiheke Passage on Boxing Day Tho Awhina has boon chartered for tho purposo, and will leave at a quartor to nine. It is proposed to examine, several of tho picturesque bays at tho eastern end of tho island, and to return 1o Auckland by the northern coast, whichis seldom soon by excursionists.

Auckland is to bo favoured daring tho holiday Boason of the summer months with the prosenco of Professor Herbert, an able prestidigitateur and illusionist, who is open for engagements at private parties of all kinds, and also to givo tuition in the arts which ho has made his study. Tho Pro fessor, whose address is Montague's Fancy Bazaar, Queon-stroet, unnounces vory moderate terms for lessons in slight of hand, &c, and a vory attractive programme of feats which be can perform.

Wo have been shown a compound styled "Electric Metal Paste," which has been fabricated by Mr. B. Siminonds, of Auck land, for the polishing of all kinds of metal. By means of it and a piece of chamois leather a brilliant lustro is quickly im parted to brass, bronzo, silver, and other metals, and all danger of scratching or scoring is avoidod. Mr Simmonds intends to patent tbo stufi', and it will soon be pro curablo at all the grocers and ironmongers.

About noon to-day a Chinaman's horse and cart boltod through Parnoll. No dam age waa done boyond poor John being thrown out and his vegotables scattered along tho road.

At tlio meeting of tho Hospital Com mittee on Monday tho following gentlemen W6re present:—Mr W. R. Waddol, Mr Dando, Colonel Haultain, and Mr F. Jeuno. Tho House Committee reported as follows ro rules as to discharging patients:—"At an intorviow with Dr. Bond at the Hospital on tho 14th inst., ho stated, in reply to questions as to whether the rules relative to patients being discharged by order of

toe medical ollicer in charge of the case : — ' In cases of emergency, patients have been discharged by mo for the purposo of admit ting urgent cases, without consulting the members of the visiting staff in charge of the case.'" Re milk and fowls : Dr. Bond stated that every caro was taken to reduce the consumption of those articles to tho lowest amount consistent with what was clue to the patients. On tho motion of Colonel Haultain, it was agreed " That tho House Surgeon in no case discharge a pationt without previously obtaining tho consent of a member of the medical staff." With regard to the question of funds it was resolved, on tho motion of Colonel Haultain, "That the Chairman bo re quested to communicate with the Prcmior, stating that tho Committee cannot carry on tho duties of tho Hospital unless current expenses are provided." Thoso who profer to spend their Christ mas holidays upon tho water have a vory large number of excursions from which to choose. On Christmas Day the Rose Casoy will leave for Waiwera at 10 a in., and re-

turn at 4.15 p.m. For Boxing Day (Sutur day), tho Northern Company's steamers . re announced as follows:—Clansman, for ivowim, 10 a.m.; Wellington, for Waiwera, 10 a.m.; Glonolg, for Motutapu, 10 a.m.; and Macgrogor, for Tiiitiri, 10 a.m. Tho Waitaki has Deon laid on for an excursion to Man-o'war Buy, leaving tho wharf at 10 a m., and for a moonlight excursion in the evening. St. Stephen's Prosbytorian Sun day school goes to Motutapu in tho k.h. Rowenu, and tho Primitive Methodist Churches of Alexandra-streot and Upper Mtt-etreet picnic at Motuihi, tho Taka puna having beon chartered for tho occa- Bion, Tho Baptist Tabernacle congregation will have a picnic at tho Tamaki, two steamerd having beon chartered—ono to

leavo at 7.30 and tho other at 9.30. The Lily leaves for St. Holior's Bay and Tamaki at 10 a.m., tho Tongariro runs to St. Kolicr'a regularly during tho day, and the Northcoto and Dovonport forry ftoamors will run at vory short interval*. Tho Coromandel goes to Lako Takapuna with tho United Methodist Free Church (Pitt ami Vincont stroets) picnic party, nnd the Lalla Kookh is announced to leave Manukau at 10 a.m. for Cornwallis and

Mill Bay (weather permitting).

To-morrow's "Now Zealand Illustrated Tit. Bits" will con' iin a largo political cartoon " Dr. Vogel.n Nostrums," and twtlvo humorous and other illustrations. The nulling matter will co'iipnso an artic'.o on " Our Misßion," " Brain Sauce." Tit Bita ot Informal km," " Tit Bits ot Fur," "Facts and ITanoleß," " Christmas Kvc in dliujroni Countries"; a splendid story for bo)s, •' Whlp-Klng Joo, tho Boy Ranohcro1'; an oiiKinal and oxoitlng story "A Christmas Crimo"; amusing local Btorica "Why tho uUualenl Judgo caught tli.s Kariy Train.' and "A Briton amonßSt tho Minnows"; 1-Fa«hion Tit Bits" etc., etc., etc.: ihe whole making a most intssestlng and readable number. We have much pleasure in reminding our renders that Ilew'aola established giocorystore Victoria-itroot, is undoubtedly tho place fora Rood Christmas ham or a iiound of gnnaino tea. -[advt.l Mr Enoch Wood, butcher, Symonds street, killed tho champion prize ox last o7cn itiK for lila (Jhriatmu- customers. Tlile line ox m, bred by Mr Reynolds, of Cambridge, and vro'ghed, when olive, 2.200 ponnds ; doad. I.COO pounds ; fat. £00 pound*. The animal, which was only four yosra o!d, has been grazing dur ing tho paat fortnight in Mr Wood's paddock. On tak>r g measurements this morning, it was found thin tbehind-quartor moasurod threo feel across ; tho foro quarter. 3 tout 7 inches ; sirloin. lii inches; (shoulder, 17 Inches; and pinto G inches through. The whole uarcaso is without either ucur or brulao. Mr ,). \Y. Shackolford, of "JlO, Qttoon- Btreot, and 80, Vlctorlu-street, announce* tint he has openoa a stock of novoliioa and bpcotalitles m Hats, Scarves etc, sulnulo for tho«eiiTOD. and invltea the ln&peetion of tho publ p.

"THE MESSIAH."

Till:: attondunce at tho Choral Hall last evening, on tho occasion of tho annual per formance of tho "Messiah" by tho Choral Society, was exceptionally large. Every foot of space in the building was occupied, and, uumbera of people wore <rlad of tho opportunity to listen iv the corridors, Admiral Tryon and toveral officers of H.M.S. Kelson, and Colonel Whitmore, were present by special invitation. Tho orchestra eeats were also completely iilled, the total number of performers being 217. These comprised 69 sopranos, 35 altoa, 29 teuora, and ,iS basses, with a total of 39 instrumentalists and eovon soloists, The orchestra platform vvuu greatly improved in appearance by the Christmas decorations, whi.e the charming light costumes of the lady vocalists gave the gallery an excep tionally bright appaarance. One noticeable feature of the performance last night was the fact that some two or three of tho solos that are accustomed to be sung from year to year, such, tor in stance, as " He Shall Feed His Flock " and "The People That Walked in Darkness," wore omitted. Next year the solos omitted last night will be taken, and others left out. Tho soloists of last night's performance wore Miss Stephenuon and Mrs Judeon, sopranos; MissesMaunsell and Kempthorno, altos ;Mr E. Barker, tenor; and Messrs Huxtable and Taylor, basses, Tho solo " How Beautifully are the Feet" was tasto fully rondered by Mrs Judson. Mies Stepheusou, who hud boon culled upon to till v vacancy, achieved a brilliant success in the beautiful solo, "I Know That My Redeemer Liveth," The music is well suited to her voice, and overy note was accurately rendered. There was perhaps a slight lack of expression, but taken as a whole this solo was the gem of the evening, and tho audience manifested their appreciation by cordial applause, llies Kempthorne sang "But Thou Didst Wot Leave " with care, while the alto eolos, " Uo Was Despised" and " Oh, Thou That Tellest" were given with much taste and feeling by Miss Maunsell. Except for a little flatness on some of tho sustained notea, the rendering of both solos was un exceptional. Miss Maunsell also took part with Mr Harker in the duet, " Oh, Death, Where ia Thy Sting ?" Mr Harker was in good voice, and sang " Comfort Ye " and "Evory Valley." Mr Tayler gave a fine rendering of the solo, "Why Do the Nations?" and Mr Huxtable was also very successful in "But Who May Abido.'1 The choruses were on- the whole not co strong as in previous years, and many of them were inaccurate in time, and gave signs of inadequate rehearsal. The or chestra played with verve and precision, and the accompaniments were especially worthy of commendation. Taken as a whole, the faults of the performance were few and the excellencies abundant, and Herr Schinitt and the members of the Society deserve tho fullest credit for a really good production of Handel's master piece. The usual free performance for tho public takes place next Sunday in the Choral Hall, commencing at 3 o'clock sharp.

A REMARKABLE CASE.

AHotolandßllUardTOom Keeper Charged

with Having No Means.

James Kuwin. alias Irwin. was charged with having no vtslolo, lawful means of support. Prisoner who. appeared in tho dook.in a good suit of olothes, and flourishing!; a silk pocket-handkerohiof, \was defended by Mr Napier, imd pleaded not gunty.-3ernt. Pratt uaidihe acoused had done ncMVOTk for several weoks past. He froquonted biUiard-rooma, whore Ma chief business was to swindle peoplo. On tho 18th ho was in tho company of anew arrival at several hotels : robbad him. ~ThroU^J^' and otherolroumatances, tho poHce arreßtedtho prisoner.-C«cil William Goodison. billiard marker at the Hobson Hotel, deposed that he 11l poenErwin attbeho'el several times. Ho hud a gamoof pool with the prisoner, and afior it wns over he ml sod two of the lnaroloa. Prisoner won the mojorlty of ihe games, sev eral days aftor he found tbo two marbles iia box.-MrPhillpott,billiardmarkeroitho Paoiik, deposed that acouaod played pool at his room, and after the games ho missed the 11 marble. The marble was found next morning outside the window Witness a'-ousid Krwio vi.taking the marble, but ho denied it — JJetectlve Jones, de pool that ho had known the prisoner as a " Hpeeler." by. the name of Kvans . He had iar rested him previously, and found a pack of baa cards in his noasoeslon. ThejeweUers had com plained o( tho attempts of iCrwin to gct.dia | mond rings from them. He never knew accused 'to bo doiupr anything but playing pool and billiards, and he wflsaocustomel to bane around town till alato hour ot night. In reply to Mr Napior, the dotootive said ho had arrosted tbo prisoner before, but tho oaso wiled. He was not annoyed on that occasion. He did tell him when ho was leaving tho Court that ho had better look aftor hinißelf, but ho did not threaten to have him. Ho did not deg hia footsteps that night. When ho arrested accused, tha latter told him he was worth £1,006, and would make It hot for him and Hughes. Detective Hughes depnsod that accused existed by billiard sharping und onlr recently ho said that ho would have £400 to his oredic when tho busbman sea Eon waa over. He had kept icvoral billiard rooms, and was kicked out of tbo oxford. He was negotiating for tho lease of the Pier Hotel, but that wns only to swindle a joweller out of a quartz pendant Charlos Liofleld, a bushman, deposed that no met accused at the Greyhound Hotel. They went up Queen-street' together at prisoner's sugges tion, and in the lane above tho Thißt)e ; accused asked it witness had any money, Wi'nosstook out 12s Od iwhlch Krwiii took Ie outot his hand and put it in his pocknt. Ho asked for the monoy repeatedly, and Erwln took olThls coat nnd wantod him to flghtl Mr Napier Bald he could put in the box a large contractor, a notol keeper, and a solicitor to provo tha'. ha had ample means of support. It was preposterous thatovory person who waßnotat work Bhould havo to acoount to the polloe for thoir moans of subsistence. Acoused was oallod, and deposod thnt ho had privato means sufficient to llv? upon, Ho was a hotel und billiard-room kbeper, and lived with his father and mother. He donicd tho alloged robbery from Linileld, who was drunk. Ho never for the purpose of cheat ing made away with pool marbles. He en- Bidored hlmsolf as good a billiard player as there was in town. John Krwln, oontraotor, doroscd that riefondant was his brother. He hAd ampin means of llvintr, and had not done anything tor several months. It was not a ynar s'neo ho had Rome back from Melbourne. Hia Worship said thla waa quite suflloient, and dis missed tho oaae.

Newmarket Borough Council.

Tiik usual mooting of the above body waa held last night. Present: The Mayor (Mr W. J. Buitor>, Motsrß Taito, Lumpkln, Morgan, Kdgerley, Bishop, Whlßkor, and Jlaaon. letters were dealt wlili as follows:—From J. Sporroy, Proporty Tax CommisslODor, Elating that a voucher for £139 7a—75 per cont. on account of untidy under the I^ocal Bodies Finance and Fo-wers Act, 1881-lind boon aentto tho Treasury on account of the Borough. Beßolved th*t the Commissioner's attention bo called to tho fact that tho boroußh w»s entitled to £2 {or ovory £,[ of rates collected. From Public Works Depart ment, BtatinK that tho tolls In tho borough would he kopt openthreo months longer. Ke solved to requcßt tho refund of £20 spent on the road by tho Council, and also to draw attention to the want of repairs. Lotters from the Mount Hobson School Ojmmittoe re increased accom modation, and tho Town Clerk, Auokland, re water Mipply, wero deferred till next meeting. The Mayor was eleotod Chairman of tho Wutsr worki Committee, and the night of meetihglwaß altarod from Tuesday to Thursday. It was agreodto call for ay plications for position of doK tax collector for 1888; aleo, that the fenco fronting the hall bo painted.

ALLEGED HORSESTEALING.

Fuku. Harris, alias Johnßtono, was charged at the Police Court to day with stealing a horse, valuo £10, tho property of Robert Groy. of Pon. Brtiiby, and also a riding saddlo, value £8, tho prororty of Frank Buckland. Tho evidence of Urey was to the olfeoi that ho left the horao in Harko and Lincoln's yard. J. L. Perry, of lluumrama. dupes.:<l that acoused brought tin horso to liia faiher'a farm, and wished to ox chaugo it for anothnr ono for £5. — Constable Knight dnposed thut accused had odruittod iho oll'onoo whon ho arrested him. — Trie ovidence in tho other caso was nomowhat similar. Mr Bueklaud having left tho middle- at the Hay murker. — Prisoner was committed for trial on both churRCS.

TABLE TALK.

Mkutisu of building trado to-night

how Grand Stand at Eilerslio ready for Boxing Day. Thore nro 800 unomployed who " want no work to do."

Typhoid fever at Parnoll—the borough oi tho hundred smells!

Last mission service at St Pauls to-night. Sign of prosperity—rabbits " rapidly dying out" in Bay of Plenty. Bazaar and baby show at Otahuhu realised £92 ISs.

Luke Rotorua is at present lower than

has over boon known before

Sir Julius Vogel is improving: a Cabinet council was held at his house yesterday.

To Puko Cheese Factory startod opera tions last Friday with 305 gallons of milk; Hon. Mr Tole leaves Dunedin for Invor cargill to-morrow. .' Mr Grifliths, the proprietor of the Taupo coach, is not expected to recover from tho injuries ho sustained in the'recorit acci-' clout. ,■ •

Wellington "Tost" sympathises nitb.' Auckland carpontors in thoir present struggle • ' "■ ■

A " striking " commentary on thodepres eion Tho carpenters' dispute.

Tho Constabulary aro closely watching To Kooti's program.

Whangarei fruitgrowers are to have 100 feet of spaco for exhibits at tho London Ex hibition. .. ■ , .'

Thainos Choral Socioty performed last night " Tbo May Queen " cantata. At Dunodin 117 of tho unemployed havo accepted relief work. Ripe poaches aro already being pluckod in the Bay of Plenty district. Im it contempt, of Court?—Mr Justice Gillies must not bo called "Judge" in official documents,

Mr J. L. Fraser, Taheko, Bay of Plenty, bas "obtained several likely looking* sped mens of quartz in that neighbourhood.

Frederick Huzoldean, a student at St. John's College, fell and broke his leg in Wellesley-street, yesterday. The limb had jußt healed from a previous fracture. • - Tho band and vocalists of H.M.S. Nelson gavo a concert last week at Russell for the benefit of Mrs Rtce, whose husband was drowned in the Bay some time since.

It is stated that the Shaw, Saville, and Albion Steamship Company, will, for the opening of the Exhibition at London, grant saloon passages, with return tickets, at from £80 to £100.

Jerusalem! A telegram states that Bishop Redwood has left Wellington for Jerusalem, via WanganuL Why, that way madness lies !

The lato Mayor of Cbristchurch, Mr C. P. Hulbert, was treated to a compliment ary ball last night, and Mrs Hulbert was presented with a diamond bracelet.

TELEGRAMS.

Oponlng up the Wanganui Rivor.

AVanganui, this day.—A stern-wheel stoamor, built for the Wangamii Ilivor Stoani Shipping Company, was launched to-day, and sbo ia expoctod to carry 60 tons of cargo and steam 12 knots. Prior to the launch speeches were made by the Mayor and General of the directors. One of the latter stated ihat the Govern ment had been induced to throw ooen threo largo blocks of land in tho Wanganui, which would have been imicceeeible but for the steamer. The name given to the boat is "Tuhua."

A gold watch was prewntdd to William Bruce to replace onelost by him in rescuing a girl from drowning at tho Breakwater on 9th November, the funds being raised by subscription.

Chkistchuuch, this day.—The Moor house statue in tho Domain was unveiled yesterday afternoon by the Governpr. The weather was beautiful, a half-holiday was observed, and there was a large assemblage at the ceremony.

At the Rangiora B.M. Court, the licensee of the Club Hotel was fined £l for selling liquor at a booth on the Agricultural Show ground. The Rangiora Borough Committee had granted him an extension, notwith standing that the show grounds were be yond their boundary. "■ ;

Fire in a Public Park:

A tire, probably caused by the match of a careless smoker, burnt a large "number of trees in- the public park, Kangiora, last eight. The loss will be heavy, a large sum having been expended by the Borough Council in li>ying put the park.

DuNJSDiN, this day.—Judge Williams has discharged Crow; on the ground- that the warrant of commitment was bad.

CABLEGRAMS.

[BIT JBLKOTIUO TELEGRAPH.—COPYRIGHT.]

[KEUTKB'S OABLfcURAM.J

Another Heavy Failure. (Received Deo. 23-12.45 p.m.)

London, December 22.-Messrß Lupton and Co., wool merchant*, Bradford, have suspended payment, with liabilities amount ing to £60,000. Irish Landlords and Tenants.

The Parnellite press are urging a confer ence of landlords with tho view of effecting a compromise with their tenants regarding the payment of rentß. ~ .-, ~■ !:.

i The Imprisoned Editor.

: * Petitions containing over three hundred and fifty thousand signatures have been prepared, preying for the release of Mr Stead.

South Australia and the New Ouinoa

Protectorate.

London, December 21.—The question of appointing a successor to the late Sir P. Scratchley is still unsottlod. Sir Arthur Blyth, Agont-General for South Australia, has not taken part in the conference be tween the Agents-General and the Secre tary of State for the Colonies with reference to the appointment, his Government ob jecting to contribute to the cost of main taining a protectorate over New Guinea beyond June next.

Tbo Status of Retired Officers.

The War Office authorities have invited the Agents-General to discuss with them the desirableness of revising the regulations affecting the status of retired officers.

Anglo-Australian Cricket,

At a meeting of the Marylebono Crioket Club, Lord Harris moved, and Dr. W. W. Grace seconded, " That it is to be hoped that in future visits of Australian teams the convenience of Engliah clubs -will be con sulted ". Twenty-eight inatch.es hove been arranged with the Melbourne Cricket Club, their engagements ending on September 2nd. Five vacant dates have been virtually lost on account of the indecision in sending home a team. The matches against All England and the Manchester Gentlemen will be played at Lords. The Australians are to recoivo half of the gross gate money. ?

(Received December 23—1.15 p.m.) S f Cardinal Moron's Visit to New Zealand.

Sydney, this day.—His Eminence Car dinal Moran will leave for New Zealand after the Christmas holidays.

Victorian Wheat Crop,

Melbourne, this day. — Tho " Aus tralasian " publishes its annual article on tho Victorian wheat crop. Tho estimated amount of land under wheat is giveo at 1,060,000 acres, and the expected yield ia 10,000,000 bushels; average, nine decimal forty-six bushels per acre. The total surplus available for oxport is expected to 'reach 82,000 tons.

Wharf Labourers' Dispute.

The difficulty between tho shipowners and wharf labourers ia not yot settled, Tho masters, howevor, aro very firm in their attitude, and as the labourers show signs of yielding, it is expected that a compromise may be arrived at

Close of the Bulgarian War.

Tho Terms of Poaco.

(BY OABLB—COPYRIGHT.)

Const.vntinoi'LK, Docombor 22. Tub Commißsiou oii ; tho Bulgar-Servian frontier question has arranged for the evacuation of territory. It has been de cided that tho Servian forcoa at pioeent in Bulgaria shall evacuate their position on Friday next, and that tho Bulgarians who have advanced into Servia shall retire within tho Bulgarian frontier on Sunday. The prolongation of tho armistice until the Ist of March next has also been arranged.

THE IRISH QUESTION.

Explanation of tho Alleged Manifesto.

(special to press association.)

London', December 21. It has now transpired that the manifesto on tho Irish question, purporting to have emanated from Mr Gladstone, was a "pilot balloon," set afloat by Mr Herbert Glad stone to learn how his father would be likely to act if Lord Salisbury refused to accede to the Irish demands. The dis claimer published by Mr W. E. Gladstone does not deny the intentions ascribed to him in tho manifesto. The letter which waa publishod in the "Times" on tho subject by the Marquis of Hurting ton was written by him after travel ling to London to boo Mr Goschen. Both tho Marquis of Hartington and Mr Goschen are evidently opposed to the formation of an Irish Parliament. The agitation caused by tho manifesto is now subsiding.

NEW SOUTH WALES POLITICS.

A Now Ministry Formed,

Sydnky, Docomber 23. Aitkk encountering many obstacles, Sir John Kobertson has been able to submit to His Excellency tho following names for tho pew Ministry: — Premier and Colonial Secretary, Sir John Robertson; Colonial Treasurer, Mrrßurns; Minister of Justice Mr Leydon; Secretary of Lands, Mr .Spring; Minister of Public Instruction, Mr Young ; Minister of Public Works, Mr Garrard; Minister of Mines, Mr Vaughan ; Postmaster - General, Mr O'Connor; At torney-General, Mr Simpeon. In the Assembly to-day, the seats of the new Ministers were declared vacant, and the House then further adjourned until January 27th.

SUICIDE OF A STEWARD.

! (by telkgiuph—own correspondent.)

Chbtstchcroh, this day.

George Hayjss, steward, of the barque Merope, now at Lyttleton, committed .sui cide last night, by taking laudanum and sulphuric acid. He had been lately over some alleged irregularities about his stores.

Sunstroke or Manslaughter?

Chbistchuroh, this day. John Hazelaurst, 9 years old, died suddenly at Woodend from sunstroke.

LATER,

At the inquest on the child Hazelhurst, whore death is supposed to have resulted from sunstroke, it was found that the whole of the body, exnept.a portion of the stomach, was covered with bruises ; thore was also one or two small wounds. The boy was living with'Mr and Mrs Green, ac Wood end, having been hired out from Burnham Industrial School. The inquest was ad journed.

WELLINGTON NOTES.

Mysterious Tragedy,

(BY TELISORAI'II—OWN COKRKSPONDKNT.)

Wellington, this day. The police officer at Kihikihi roports to the Governor of Police the (inding of the body of a man, about 40 years of age, hi the Waikato River, near Mercer, the day before yesterday with a cut across the head as if from a tomahawk. Strangely enough no mention of the circumstance is yet pub' ashed in the newspapers, [An account of the finding of the body waa in yesterday's Star]

The Government and Te Kooti.

i The Native Minister continues to receive telegrams of the progress of Te Kooti's tour to the Bast Coast. ■ Many people seem to bejaising objections to Te Kooti's progress ; but the Minister can do nothine Since the Amnesty Act Te Kooti is as much a British^ subject as any minister of the Lrown, and the Crown muattherefore extend the same protection to Te KoOti as lone as he remains a loyal and peaceable memberi of the community. >TeKooti telegraphs to the Native Minister that he is being well le??Z°* ab the different settlements through which he passes, B

The Auckland Summer Meeting.

This MornlnK's Training Notes.

Thk work at Ellerslie this morning waa not aa interesting as one would expect consider ing wo are within a few days of tho great event of the year. There was a cold, piercing wind blowing, which made things rather unpleasant for those who ventured out. Christina commenced operations by going twice round on the plough (on which all the work of the morning was done). Musk and King put in a good serviceable three times. Tho two-year-olds,Catesby and j Petroleum, cantered Ihe best purt of twice round, and finished up fast, Petroleum having, as usual, sweaters on his neck and body. Stoneyhurst and Nelson started half-way down the straight, about Cup distance, the first part of the journey, being at about three-quarter pace, and the last round at top, being done in 1.58}. Both finished together, Nelson apparently bsing able to hold his own with the Canter bury Derby and Cup winner. VVaitiri put in a slow twice, havine (it is reported) done a Cup trial yesterday evening. Wood nymph, having Revolver for a companion, went once slow, when Revolver was pulled off, and Contractor took his place, but could not make the mare extend herself. Libeller and Tetford wont the Cup dis tance, both finishing together, which seemed to be a very good gallop. Foul Shot went the same journey without com pany. He seems one of the lazy sort, as the boy looked to be at work on him all the way. Tasman and Wapiti put in a fast once round, the old horse moving very free; Wapiti just the reveree. Turquoise, Nock lace, Radames, and Derringer, all in clothing, canteredtwice round. Victoriaput in one of the best gallops of the season. She went twice round, going strong all the way and finishing up well. Kingask cantered and was1 tried at the hurdles, but refused over and over to negotiate them. With the as sistance of several bystanders and some long poles he was at last persuaded to get over one. They say he requires company before he will jump. Medico, Caoutchouc, Alfred, Blarney, Scot Freo, Macaroni, Lionel, Cremorne, Musk Roao, Clogs, Lioness; Quilp, Flageolet, Miss Griffiths, Larrikin, Salvage, Alario, Rewi, Kaiwaka, and Re frigerator all did good useful work. Cap size and Alpine Rose were on the course, but were only doing walking exercise, in tending, no doubt, to work later on.

The Botting.

Tho prices were called over at Tattersall's lact night, and a lot of wagering took place. For the Cup, Necklace was introduced into tho market, and after 250 to 30 had been written against her, 200 to 28 was booked. Several other amounta also having been pen cilled, 100 to 20 became '. the best offer against the daughter of Musket. Tasrnan found a backer who took 100 to 25 about him, and he was eager to go on at the price, but there were no layers at loss than 100 to 30. Torpedo had several hundreds pencilled againßt him at 100 to 5 and 6, and .after 500 to 15 had been taken about Victory, 100's to 5 were booked. Stoneyhurst was somewhat easier in the market, but en offer to lay 40 to 10 was quickly snapped up. Later on in the evening, 100 to 20 was offered against the Canterbury Derby winner, but no one seemed inclined to follow. For the Cup and Steeplechase, ;Mecklace and Macaroni were befriended to win a few hundreds at 100 to 5.

To-day there has been a disposition to lay Stoneyhurst for the Cup, and IGO's to 20 are on oiler. Taßman is quoted favourite at 3 to 1, and Necklace is at 5 to 1 (offered). Inquiries are being made for Waitiri, and Torpedo has backers at 100 to 6. The final payment of lOdova. for the Auckland Cup, and acceptances for the Christmas Handicap and Hurdles, are due to-night.

Kiisßloy was backed to win the Dunedin Cup last night at TattersaU's, 1600 to 25 being written against him, while Trenton waa befriended for about 1500 at 100 to 7.

Through a clerical error, the names of Victory and Larry were omitted last night from the list of entries for the Kensington Park Stakes, and Victory from the Flying Stakes.

The programme for the Helonsville races on the 29th January appears in our adver tising columns.

Fatal Accident at East Tamaki.

J. S. Stewabt, a very old roeident well known in the district, and who was in the employ of Mr Gideon Smalea, mot with his doath by accident yesterday. He was driving a horse and curt home, when on passing a eharp corner of the road the cart capsized. Neighbours at once went to his assistance, and on lifting the cat I; they found him Eerioußly injured. Dr. Bews coming up, at once ptonounced tho man dead. An inquest will be hold to-day. A young man named O'Noil was with tho de ceased, and escaped unhurt.

POISONING AT PANMURE.

A FINE boy of four yoars of age, son of Mr Mahor, Panmuro, died yesterday from the effects of eating Karaka berries. The youngster had eaten some of these berries, which, though wholesome, nre poisonous at certain seasons of tho year, and shortly afterwards showed dangerous symptom*. Dr. Loger Erson was called in, and applied tho proper remedies, but all proved un availing, mul tho little one died in convul sions. The doctor having certified as to the cause of death, no inquest took place.

Bazaar and Christmas Tree.

The ealo of fancy work in the Hobson street schools was duly opened yesterday by Bishop Luck, who made a few remarks relaiiyo to the good object of the work. There are two stalls, one containing the fancywork of the Sistors of Mercy which remained in hand at the conclusion of last year's bazaar. This contains some ex cellent needlework. The proceeds of this, stall are to be devoted towards the sustenance of the Sisters of Mercy. The stall is under the charge of Mrs and Miss Shoehnn and the young ladies of the Guard of Honour. " The other stall con tains a variety of articles selected by Bishop LuckduringhisrecenttourinEurope, includ ing usef uland ornamental articles, and curios. The proceeds of this stall are to be devoted towards the organ fund of St. Patrick's Churob, Meßdames Gregory and O'Leary, and Misses Tole (2), Gregory, and Sinales presided over this stall, and succeeded in disposing of a number of curious articles. At the end of the room was a Christmas tree, for which tickets were sold by the young ladies who continually wandered amongst the audience in search of pur chasers. During the evening musical selec tions were rendered by various ladies. The sale opened again this afternoon, and will continue durincr this and to-morrow even ings.

VOLUNTEER NOTES.

DAItGAVILLE RIFLE VOLUNTEERS,

Curious So<iucuco to tlio Late Fracas.

UahgjlVillk, this day. Last evening (Tuesday), while the Voluntoers wora at drill under Captain DargaviUe, a mes sage wai brought to that officer from Mr Smith, lbte drill instructor, to the eflfeot that ho (Smith) desired to txprees in the presence of the men his regret for his con duct towards Captain liargaville, and to apologiso for it. Mr Smith then stepped forward, and said he waa very sorry for what he had done on tho evening in question. He avowed on his honour thst he had nothing to do with the version of the matter thit apneared In the Herald " nowspapnr. He hoped Captain Unrgaville would be satixlUd with his expres sions of regret, and would consent to Mb coming back as drill instructor to the Company. Cap tain Uarßnv.lle said he would decline toreotire a conditional apology of that kind, whereupon Smith turned and left tho hall.

Gordon Rifles. Jhe ordiDary weekly drill of the Gordon Hifles took place last evening at the Drill-shod, when there waa a fair attendance of members, under oommand of Captain White and Lieutenants Leigh and Fairs. The men woro exeroisrd in Bkivmifhing aud various company movements, and a meeting was hold subsequently, at which It was decided to postpone drill until tho 12th January next, owing to the holidays; alao, that the next competition for. tne Company's Medal should take plaon on Saturday, 9th January, Captain White presented the Company with a. very handsoma gold medal, to be competed for at an early date. After some discussion regard Ing the advisability of becoming a garrison cjrpa. challenging various corps, and deciding to at odoq procure helmets, the meeting was adjourned.

Te Kooti's Visit to the East Coast.

- GlSilOßx. ft! j T"»R* is considerable fe«,i in '" * natives and Europeans at the n * botl> visit from TeKooti. TheflS P6Clol« among both races is etto , h^ 61% trouble is almost inevib>u . N It is believed, howS£? T tt £?«** not run the risk-of ~&^&.W»m S Uves have «ion' was headed by &1L ~> Pmoea with a white Bag Ka^ffiWS m the corner, and the 4rrt. IP^ iw M in black letters M^K-Kwi the banner. In the pro^illfe body o buggy, was Te KooM "BjwWfa? aides-de camp in uniform, andthiJ? They wore received at th T „• "^men Petane natives stark ■£s !£&.£ barbaric demonstration for s^ bos «>t tookplace Noarms^ereobSa*^. Te Kooti's people. tk b p«V 6moD gßt expect the leading Hawko's B "^'ea pay respect to Te Kooti« ffif*** no is a greater General thanH&W&* more, having defeated -Mm 1* AU^e natives .peakof^^,

The "Hand and Ring" Romance.

Further Revelattow. ~,,,„_

[BYTELEQRAPH-OWK^oBEESPoWto,

CIIBISTCHUBCB.thj,^ Two jewellers, to wKom the ring Jl severed hand found at Sum*,* L |™ submitted for examination, haveproisolS that the engraving ofjhe latto&li-SS, work, not more than a fortnightolcb-Th are also of opinion that tieMk d#i been cut by some pergpn. not graver, and that a knife, ocgomS. ?* strument different from «nS?» has been used It person, whose name haß^ottMSSr' suspected of being the prime ZS ■conspiracy, - • ■■* ,■>.; ■7v™,.V';!W

SCHOOL EXAMINATION.

Northcoto District SchooL*,' ' The above examination, wnauotWVihiltml Mr Long, concluded on Thursday li;^'1 entertainment was given in iliir««&g fo«? School Committee, in order.'that-pawiiti'Z frienda mltrht witness the iVettw^ifcrf, priz.s. The schoolioom wwMaSss* & presented a fine .eight. wh&ffiSfjSJ £■7. whTtoToU^of^St follows were printed by MesdamaiitaiJS Judd. Hiichcock, Quick; yUnd BB6hT*M& obtained during the year—stMaaSnvV'-ii*l A. Jenkitißon, 1; Albert Olehtti^li" iiniu1' Wilson 2; Fred' Jackson" 7^ift Howard' Chambers, 1; Louis jSSSLi!j! UobortThompfion,B Maua^BaxieUlvSiil Outhbert Chambers, 1; J^offlSSffi Purdie.3; Margaret Haweß, 1: JafflM£?r fc.er.rudo Bondell, 3 StahdardTP-'WiSS). Alexander. I; Percy iSBnaS kinson. 8i •kinson, 2; Anna Jacksou,3. StindM*l™»2i Kay, 1; William Hill, 2 • Albert W&OS !Haismaa, equal: Maud Jackson, HnffilS sod, equal. 1: kthel Msnren7j?"jj^?: Johnston, S. Prizes for exuminntibft-'SiuSi v.: Ma^y Jenkinson, I; Albert Glfimi» iTStli Jaokson, 2; W. Wilbon.B. StandaWlVKlSS Jenkinson, 1; Uoffard Chamban, jVISS Maxwell. 1; Fanny Purdie, 2, BtMaafdW: Margaret Hawes, 1: Gtrtrode Send»lL):ffi Graham. 1; Cuthbert Chambers, i filiuS II.: Richard Alexander. l;iAustin'JenEm 2; Klizabe'h Kay, Anna'>aiksm,Sft Ellen Tfiompson, & Btatm"atd ii TIM' Purdie, Fred Kay, equal, 1: Ar/hurllHii?jSs Halsman, Arthur whitenuu^ CQuaLjLKd Jackson. 1; Agnes MoKay, 2. PrtatriSu!' Charles nopcr, .1; atAnley.ThiiinjMr'j: Elizabeth Whiteman, lj NoUie Oratoi At the conclusion of the ceremony.3Bm Jenkinson and F. Pnrdie etopnediOiftheditl form, and, on bshalf of the school,' readiM dcesa to the head toaoher, Mr Qlentr sM presented him with a handßome btecuit birial as a tribute of their esteem. Mr Glenny hrf rep ied, thanking them for tholr continued lius. ness Cakes, nuts, fruit, and lollies werr Hber ally disp. need during the evenlig, haviuu bex provided by the School C'ommiitsa Alur passing the usual votes of thanks, the ennrbriu ment o:ost>d with the National Aathem,

Dovonport Girls' High School. On Monday evenlpg there was a la™. Bate ing of parents, obildreo, and friends In tba Dovonport Hall to witntss the ceremonycf Jh tributing the prizes to the pupils ot tto JMHo. port Uirls' High School. The Eev.'Mr Lm presided, and read the encouraging reports o? the examlnera—Messrs John Wajlud, lima Cook, and himself. HuthondistribntedtkowiM as follows:—English: Ist divlßlon—Florence Willianißon. lut prize; Ada Ford, 2nd pita. 2nd division-Aunia Bramwell. 3rd divMott- Aray Bates, Ist prize; Minnie Philooi. W prize. 4thdivision- Harriet Wright," Brack: Ist division-Florenoe Williamson. Mdlvtooo —Mary Swinnerton. 3rd division-Adi IW. nh divislon-Cicelr Boothsm. UUb: lit division - Alice Black. 2ud divtoon-Mirr Swinnerton. Arithmctio: Ist dlvlslaa, Harr Rossitar. 2nd division-Jessie Beetoi Dttir ing (Kiven by MUs Tye): Ist dlviM^llM Black. 2nd division - Jessie Bernon. Beading: Ist division-Ada Ford. Zad dlvlslon-AwH Bramwell. Priza for needlework: <Mi Tai, Prixj for conduct: Jessio Beosoa., A.JjWll piiza waa Kiven by the teachers tolwil to extra excellence of work daiiie the part yeer. At the conclusion, the Rev. Mr long, on behii of the pupilß, presented Miss Bate) (rtotoiokrl, with a handsome ph'>togmphtcalbninMSH*ai of theirregard. l)urin(rthecirerta(f,aotand« was played by Mioeos A. Black, J5. Bates, F, Williamson, and M. Swinnerton. . Avondale District School, i Tho annual treat to the children uttentog to above school was given on (be 18th. imfc It proved mo:e than usually intorestlngonaocoijt of tho largo number Of parents and friends*» attended. A programme had been prew™, and several musical selection!, dialogues, wci l tations, etc., were given by tho teaoheninjl eobolara in a very creditablo.maoner Mr I» lard, tho Chairman of the. ComUiUwsKM presided, took the opportunity wttpMMfft™ satisfaction at the rapid tomma-wmi that had taken place during the.laiyMw years. He also roferred to * the _g«», o» ciplino and general; efficiencyol ft«|#«v which ho regarded as lho xeanlt a an» ot love. Ho complimented tne ; lMW« on t|iiß point. Mr Tucker, MifJWWK with Mr Bollard in teßtUyine to ftfPtWgJ» f olt witb respeot to the eohool MOw PS?S inea. Alter the entertainment a «8«ojH» * prises took place. Th«*e were> «w«wPM» childrec who had distinguished ttuwßP noatness and dUigenoe in exewtoeywfc W»» map: im, darnine, and Bowing, -Bj»iPMW foUowcd by one equally agreeaMo Mlffif dron, viz.. a plontitol supply of retreslimenw; Jn the afternoon tho children wore »IWS racing and olhnr contests for paw P"™S J the liberality of the ooniroi.tee«iidP«J^. * moat enjoyable day was spent bj au prewm. Mangoro DUtriot Scbool. On Paturday afternoonth«<M4™»»»SsS ihissohool had their annual t«atln*SlS near Mr Charles Wwher'areeiafflM-JffiS? of ihe entertainment was borngW'inow»j»» School Committee. »nPPK nttiH™K tions collected by the ohUdren. TMPW t-e number of about 1O», with thehWjtW (Mr Melsop). pupU tether*. Wtfmffi .JJ? fdendß. assembled on and after refrrsnmente "WBML*J"KJ!3I engaged In a variety.otconn>»p»«JPsffi thl doss Mr Kirk^ride-OhtlmarofißM^ Committee, addressed the «*ISSsJS.B> called forcheera for Mr and Mrs www^ teachers, and others. whiohWRSI given, oloeed a happy daj 's prooßediiigs.

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Before H. G. Beth Bn^Jßw^'^ DBUNKENNESS.-Five person! wew pa™ for this offence. - A^Vg-^fl. w« w^r G^cfwr»sSt drawn, and a fine of 5s and oosts tora""" thonther. „ ... iwrick ww BAD L,4NGUAGE.-Msry ,^»^ffiiltt» charged with making usao( oWB i» » ALLEGED DESBBTION.-AltreaN'J^afr t George Hansaro, was °^L^JUt^h riepertor from H.M-8. Connors*. enß ai keth asked for an »«i<»n»nffl £' SIoSS.-* tomorrow morniDg, bait beltg" *»^ flut Hcsketh stated, in reply.to'" Neadbam denied the ohsrge. deoded to hear aoine ''."a^iKW Constab'e Jonos Abrama. slßtloned «^jrj h deposed that from inro'^StSenUWff^ arrested the acoused on the ptesem Hotorua. He denied tteohwW..^ known him to be residing «M^- to *» i\ ye years.-Dr. J^^JT^j on tie prisoner having 'w/HiTtoH^ Cormorant during ncr SSL tW-» iJHJ several years aw. „ H?iSSL «Uh M named Albeit Neadham were at New Zealand. Theoasaw" till to-morrow aa requestett. j ■ with using iDsulting .^f'gS^d ft»*J Davis.-Mr Thoo. «>»Wr t^ !S* Wffffl proseontion.-It aPPM^ < SVw«lite lJ proeslng her regret. ■.■ ■ - ■■'•• l f..^ '

r "^^^irAttenttoll'" Mr Chambers asks i ±%ff,smfJ?. bis new sewing ™£*g» .s W*, another colnmn. M^S^eMcS1 * plioity and the woik be&aal^ rtt - m Qua*; by Mr John Angelo. wej fetnoßWStf old friend with aneW *$&*&#'& *™°^ altered from tne Unneo..^ ..,.*•., Uiningßtfonw. •

•HE AUCKLAND EVENING STAB, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 23 18%



HL. POSBENNISKIJB, • Merchant Tailor and Importer, BHURTLAND-STRKET. AUCKLAND. Announces the Completion of his SPRING AND SUMMKR STOCK, Ex B.s. Arawa, To which he Invites an early inspection. Tit Trade supplied at prices a little above oost. f\ R. H~V~K~T~A~B~L~B, DISEASES OF THK EYK AND BPKCIAUST IN THROAT AND KAR DISEASE, Formerly at Mackenzie's Bvo Infirmary, and lately from the Hospitals of London, Paris, and Vienna, Having returned to Auckland, may bo consulted at King fc sons', Qneen-street, daily, from 11 to 12o'clook. Pkivatk Residence: Ponsonby Boad, near corner of Lincoln-stout. It sooms, from reference to Home papers, that English ladles of distinction are beginning to acknowledge that there Is as much true art in the making of a lady's drese, co tha* it may fit the wearer gracefully, as there is in the painting of a beautiful picture, and that some of them are planning how to learn without going through a work-room apprenticeship. The art of diess niakiog and adjusting millinery is one of the finest of arts, and though thousands practice few excel at it. The undersigned knows this well, and has spared no pains to get the best artists that can be had, ones that exoel In dress making and millinery, and whose talents are specially adapted for these occupations. Ladies are respectfully Invited to call and see if this la not so, and judge for themselves; During Christmas week, and np to New Year's Day, beautifully Trimmed Hats and Bonnets will be •old very cheap, and all orders will be executed gulckiy ana well, at J. Gllmore's, Draper, Upptr "WndiMtreet and Kar&ngahape Hosd. Please "PteMjeKaraDgHhape Road address: It is just Opposite the Bank of New Zealand.- [Aim']. j'UES AND fiUGS, *«&•. tamu/md,» ant. b* Kerap*lvmi«. l'r"»->ir k Co., Av«uU, AooUMd



TNSURANCE COMPANIES A ASSOCIATION. INSUUANCK OFFICES Will be CLOSED on FHIDAY and SATURDAY, 28th ana 20th Oocombor, 1885 (Cliristmaa Holidays). HBNRY WORSP. Secretary. .'•jp RAND CASH SALE. .03 OHO WORTH OF DRAPERY AND ;fc,a,UUU CLOTHING, AT HALF PRICK. I. FERNANDEZ~DUAPER, NEWTON, HftViig purchasod a large portion of Messrs L. 1 • Nathan's and Co., Stock, at a very heavy discount, ho is enabled to offer some of the gr. ateat Bargains ever known in Auckland, which the following Price Libt Will Show : - Men'-i Strong Tweed fcummer Suits, complete, 23b : usual prlco, 425. «-...., Men's Summer Tweed Trousers and Veßt, 12s 6d; usual price, 20s. Men's Strong Tweed Trousers, 7a 6d; usual price, 12b 6(i- Men's Coloured Moleskin Trousers, in 6d; usual price, 5s lid. " Men 8 Strong Working Shirts, lined baoks, Is 6d; usual price, 2s 6d. Men's best quality. Long Silk Coats, 15s 6d; uaual price, 32b 6d; Silk Helmets, to match, 6s lid. worth 12s 6d. Men's Felt and Straw Hats, from Is 6d eaoh, the cheapest and best stock in Auckland, see window; every Hat marked in plain figures. Boy's and Youth's Clothing in great variety at halt price. alb •, extraordinary Bargains in Di apery and Millinery, every artiole guaranteed much oheaperthan Queon-street prices; prioelist in future issue. larSpeclal Toys and Fanoy Goods for Christ mas, presents at just a quarter the ÜBual price. NO PUFF. GENUINE FACTS. COME AND SEE. FERNANDEZ, DRAPER AND CLOTHIRR, KARANGA HAPE ROAD, NEWTON. TRAMS PASS THE DOOR.



S? S. 8. COPTIC. MILNE AND CHOICE Havo jnst received by the Coptic Nine Gates of Novelties fer the present r^s season, allofilnvorylatest r^ London Styles, in- eluding: r^ LADIEi' TRIMMSD BONNETS AND O HATS. [£J C.IILI/S AND MUDS' TRIMMED BONNETS AND HATS. UN ! RIMMED BONNETS AND HATS. jik CAPS, in Mob and Old Lafi ies". FuOWKRS AND FE4.THERS. W PS It it'HUTKS (newest Btyle ). '►ar LACE^ AND NUTS of every dosorio- H tlou. from 2Jd to 21a fid per yard. M JKR7KYB. COSTUMES. COLLAU3 ANi> COLLARETTES. BOYS' SUITS, mcl ding the Bcotoh Tartan complete. "MILNE AND pHOYCE T> B S T VALUE WILLIAM R. ABRIDGMAN'S. fiOO dozen Coata'a best- Sewing Cotton, 2fO yards, Nob. 10 to 24, Is per dozen; 250 dozen do., 100 yds, Nos. 20 to 50,23 6d dozen: 13i Pain Long Lace Curtains from 2a 6d pair ; Crewdson'a Calico, 4s 3d dozen ; Horrook'a, 2a lid dozen; Ginghams rednoed to 4:3 d, worth 8d; 25 Pairs Lang Muaiin Curtains, half price, to dear; splendid Black Bilk, 4a lid, worth 6s; large and we 1-assorted stook New Dress Goods; Sat.eonp, from 8d; Fancy Dress Uoods, 6rt; Lustres. ihi: Honeycomb Quilts. 3i 8d and fig, splendid value; large variety Mualinwork Embroidery, from Ud yard; 20 Ladles' China Silk Ulsters, half price, to clear; New Frilllngs in variety. Feathers. Sun Bonnets; large variety Maids' and Ladles' Aprons at cost tocl«ar: strong Tweed for Boys' wear, la Id; strong Galat a Stripe". U lid, great bargans; really good Cotton Shining, 4jd yard; nice assortment Ladies Lace Capes and Dolmans, cheap; 111 Men's Oxford Shirt?, 2s lid, worth 4« Hd; Men's Pasret Coate, 8a 9d, worth 20s; Men's Summer Goats, from 2a »d; large atsort ment Men's and Boys' Straw Hats, from Ci; arge lot Job Hosiery to be cleared at a heavy discount;■ Men's White Shirt?, from 2a lid; good Block; cheap clothing. Patterns free by poet. Freight paid on parcels over 20a. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, 283, UPPER QUKEN-STRKKT. T. & H, COOKE are now selling Croquet Chairs, Folding Canvas Chairs, and Verandah Blinds, at greatly i educed rates. T. & H. COOKE have just received, ox Coptic New Patterns in Brussels and Tapestry Carpets; also, Wool Mat 9 and Ruga. T. & H, COOKE have just opened a lot of ■ ■ very superior Austrian Bent-wood Cano Chair?, ■ : ■ Folding and Rooking Chairs and Lounges. T. & H. COOKE have on sale, Perambu lators, with Bicycle Wheels and Rubber Tires. T« AND H» CoOKE, FURNITURE, BEDDING, AND CARPET WAREHOUSE, JUNCTION OF QUEEN AND GREY ' STREETS, AUCKLAND. ; GOTO FOR BEDSTEADS \ CARPETS \ LINOLEUM V^r\ PERAMBULATORS \\/\ BEDDING \<<\ SPRTNG MATTRES \«\\ SES >L^\ TOILET WARE \/"\ FENDERS & IKONS \v^V OFFICE FURNI- Y/-\ TURE * DINING KOOM AND SITTING ROOM f"\ DRAWING ROOM \f<_\ BEDROOM \LA FURNITURE \f\\ AMERICAN, AA\ AUSTRIAN BENI . \yA WOOD \&l\ CHAIRS & STOOLS V>\ WARDROBES V^A SIDEBOARDS ' v" ' Yr^A CURTAINS yr blinds BLANKETS ™CRKAP sheets HOUSE FURNISHERS ANDBvERy QUUMSTBEET, nougEKEQUIBITa AUOtILAND, . ■



DR. GEO. G. KENNY, M.8., CM. <late Rosident Surgeon Wellington Hospilal.and Publio Vaocina tor for the Distrlot of Wellington), may bo Consulted Dally at his Ueßidonoo, VAUXIIALL ROAD. DBVONPORT, from 9 TO 10 A.M. 2 TO 3 P.M. 6.30 10 8 p.m. DISEASES OF THE EYE, EAR, THROATS AND CHEST. DR. WILKINS, CONSULTING & OPERATING SURGEON Is at his Surgery for General and Special Practico all mor"in;?Band afternoons Sunday, 10 to 12 30. Charges modorato. 17 yoe.rs at London and Colonial Hospitals. Adjusts Spoo taclcs to sight. Consulting Rooms, Quben btrbkt. (opporito Shortland-stree'), Auckland. AG. BARTLETT, CHRONOMETER • MAKffiR AND JEWKLLEU. A large Stock of Ladles' and Gonts' Gold and Silvor Lever Watchoe of suporior rtnisli, a now and well-assorted Stookof Gold Brooches. Ear rings, &c, Ladies' and Gents' Gold and Silver Alberts. Wedding Rings, Engagement and Dress Ring*, Gonts' Signet Rings, K'eotro Plato, Marble Clocka, &c. Gents' English Lovers, at £3 10s ; guaranteed. 151, Quoen-street, Established 1562, NEW ZEALAND FLLUSTRATED mITB IT S. A WEEKLY JOURNAL. TO-MORROW (Thursday) the first number of tho " New Zealand Illustrated Titbits," a Weekly Journal of Original and Solooted Mat ter, will be issued. This journal will contain, besides original matter, carefu ly seleotcd extraots from the best English, American, and Australian journals. Look Out Fok NEW ZEALAND ILLUSTRATED TITBITS.



Christmas, New Year, birthday, and complimentary cards and cheap books, station ery, and presents at 11. White's, next to tho Bank rf-Now Zealand, Queeu-&treel.-(Advt.) I Christmas and New Year Gifts acceptable Jo nil.—One of Chambera's Celebrated Sewing Machines, at 20, Queen-street, only,—(Advt.) >