COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &c. To-night.

Opera House—" Queen's Evidence," S Masonio Hall—Soireo Dan3ante, 8. „ Queen's Own Rifles-Patade, 7.30. H A.C.B. Soolety—Juvenile Contingent, 8. Foresters' Hal'—Lecture by Mr P. McNaugbt, Why I Accept Christianity," 8. Newmarket Hall—Meeting of Inhabitants, 8. .Alexandra-street School-room - Sanctuary City o( Auokiand, A.0.5.. 8 30. St, John's, Ponsonby—'' BeUhazzar 's Feast," 8. Masonic Hotol - Takapnna Jockey Club Annual Meeting, 8.

Auction Sales To-morrow.

Gabriel Lewis-Pioturo Frames, Mouldings, &c, 11. J. H. Earner & Co.-Furniture, &c, 12. S. Cochrane & Son-Furniture, &c, 11. A. Buokland-Romuora Yards, 1. B. AJthur-Fruit, 10 a.m.; Furniture, noon

Chief Post office, Auckland.

Malls will close as tinder :— Tins Day. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Thursday, 6th inst. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 5.30 a.m. Vor Walwera, Te Kapa, and Warnworth, per Roso C&ssy, at 10 a.m. For Waitara, Now Plymouth, and Wanganul, por Gairloch, at 11 a.m. For Gisborne, Napier, Southern Ports, and Australian Colonios, per vvaihora, at 11 a.m. For money orders, registered lctttra and newspapers, at 10 a.m. jjita letters till 11.20 a.m. For Waitara and Southern ports, per Staffii, at 1 p.m. For Taurangaand Opotiki, por Wellington, at 5 p.m. For Whitianga and Upper Mill, per Argyle, at 6 p.m. Friday, 7th inst. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 9.30 a.m. For Cowes and Coromandel, por Coromandel, at 11.30 a.m. ffor Whangarei Heads, Parua, Walpu, Whan garel, Kanio, and Mangapai, per Glonelg or Waitaki at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Tuesday, August 18. Pet City oJ Sydney, as follows :— For Navigator Islandß, Sandwioh Islands, United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South Amorioa, and British and Foreign West ladles, at 1 p.m For Umt9d Kingdom and Continent of Earope, at 1 p.m, Moneyordors, 10.30 am. Registered letters and newspapers, at 11.30 a.m. Late lettors, boaring au extra foe of six pence In addition to tho postage, will be received by the Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the time of sailing. This mail will 'xj due In London on Friday, Sept. 25.1885 (Signed) ROBT. KAYE, Aoting Chiof Postmaster, Chief Post-office, Aiokland.

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER.

AooKLAwt>-Thia ftftorncon, 1.6: to-morrow morning, 2.2. Manukau Heads—This afternoon, 3.10; to morrow morning, 4.42. Kaipara Ukads—This afternoon, HG; to morrow morning, 5.42. Bunskt.—Thiß evening—s.l3. StrNRtSE.—To-morrow morning- 6 69. Moon's Aqb.—New Moon, 11th, 11.53 a m.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY. Janet Nicoll, a.s., Hutton, from Sonth Sea Islands Waihorll, s.s., McGes. from Russell Wellington, 8,8,, Stephenson, from Whangarol £_ Stanley, brigantlno, Davis, from Timaru

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVENING. "Waitaki, 5.8., Crawford, for Whangaroi Glonelg, s 8.. Johnson, for Whangarei! Suva, s.e., Hutchison, for Southern ports

STEAMERS TO ARRIVE.

Rotomahßna,from Thames, today, S.p.m. Avgyle, from Mer:ury Bay; to morrow, early Coromcnd<el, from Coromaivdel, tomorrow, 5 Ep.m. • itnterprise, from Thames, to morrow, 10 p.m. Kaikpura, from Plymouth. August 18 City of Sydney, from Sydney, August 18 Australia, from San Francisco. August 22 Doric, from London, August 31 [For projected departures see Bhlpping ad vertisements and mtiil notices.]

IMPORTS.

Per Stanley, from Timaru-5,018 eacks pro duce, 21 bales hops, 5 casts hops.

Per s.s. Janet Nicoll-10 cases guava jelly, 20 Una desaicated cocoanat. and G iundlea t-heep skins, f LOrn Tahiti; 7,1! M cases oranges. 352 bags cotton seed, 150 bags cocoancts, 33S bags copra 700 bunches bananas, 42 bales cotton, 3 tons 4 cwt arrowroot C cases kumaros, and some old copper, from Itarotonga,

Inwards Coastwise.—Norah, from Kennedy Bay. with Sl.OOuft baulk limber; Olive, from Cabbage Buy, with U logs; Ruakaka. from Kennedy Biy, with 2VjOO" baulk limber; Dream, from White I3;and, with 25 tons sulphur; Coralie. from Mercsry Bay, with 2isooft timber; Rose, from Whangarei, with 53 tons coal. Outwards Coastwisb.—Norah for Kennedy Bay; Olive, forCubbaeo Bay; Fawn anil Koso, for Whangaroa; Euakaka, for Kennedy Hay; Coralie, for Meroury Bay. The a a. Wellington arrived from Tauranga at i a.m. to-day. Passengers :—Messrs Ramsay, Waylor, 3. Killin, Taj lor, and Bradford, Haj land, La wry, and Mias Con way. The brljiantipo Ada C. Owen arrived at Raro tonga from this port on June 10, the passage 3 having occupied 11 days. g A sohooner inside Tiritiri, probably a 7«e3bl i from tho islands, was signalled when 'ah, went to press. - • ■* ■ The wreck of tha schooner Slats McGregor 1b reported In another column." '• " ' ' ' The s.B. Janet NicooV ll expected to leave for Southern ports abo.it noon to-morrow. Captain Smith; who was'taken terlouslyill when in charge of ihe s.s. Kawatirl at this port recontly;has ainco boon under medical tres* i meat- at tha Hospital. Very little hopr f entertainei for his recovery. * >" The'brtgantlne Stanley left Timaru - on July 21, rounded East Cape on At- " <« *P-m. off Great Barrier at 2am on -t^s*2. was arrived In harbour this aftern' i"c ftn, ana variable weather prevailed jOn. Light and voyage. > throughout the

ARRIVAL OF THE ISLAND MAIL STEAMER.

r^firafTor> -net Nicoll, with malls and pas- SiflunoV - Tonga, Samoa. Tahiti, and Raro *£&& with the Government of . t?,r jltLiui, arrived in harbour tbia morning SJ* «c tfolook. This is the first trio she has v -do as mail steamer between the islands and .< ev Zealand, and the voyage, through con trary weather and a slight accident to her machinery alter leaving Karotonga. has been rather protraoted. Tho Janet Nicoll, carrying mails and passengers, left Auckland on Satur dav2oth June, at 3 p.m ; arrived at Tongatabu, Friday, 26th, 8 a.m.; left Sunday, 28th, 720 a.m.; Arrived Vavau. Monday, 29th. 8 a.ro.; left same St«2oon? arrived Apia. Wednesday, lft July, 4n ml • left, Saturday, 4th July. 3 p.m.; arrived J&roto'nKa, 10th July. 5 p.m.: left 11th. 430 p.m.; Srived"ffihM. 15th July, 11.30 turn.; left Satur- Say 18th 3.45 p.m ; arrived Tuesday, 21st, 2 pm.; sailed for Auckland. Saturday, 25th 4 Km : arriving as above. From Auckland to Tonßatabu Bbc experienced flno weather and favourable winds.hut nearly all the rest of the voyage contrary winds and head seas were encountered. From Rarotong* to Auckand nfflv seas were encountered and north westerly squalls were met with accompanied by rainy and cloudy weather. The length ot the voyage caused^ the supply of caal to run Bhort, and cotton seed had to be tiken from the cargo and used as fuel during the last two days. Captain Hutton bnogs the Janet Nicoll into port in splendid condition fromVr cruise of blx weeks and three days. The following is her passenger list: Saloon- Mrs Kdenborough and daughter ; Mrs Young, SjjJlg Boyd, and eon from Tahiti; Messrs /fltan Pavitt Neal, Kelly, and Whitcombo. iommerolal delegates j Captain Sohulz^, Meesrs ?l«aa Bis?, Bdenborough, Clark and Kinahorn. StecraKO-Johnßon, Prinzoff, Cinqulet, and four Rarotonga natives.

PRESENTATION TO CAPT. HUTTON, OF THE JANET NICCOL.

mu A nassengers by the Island mail steamer JaEet Nkfoil, which arrived In Auckland this morning, presented Capt. Hutton with the followinß address :— " To Captain Hutton, B.s. Janet Niccol.—Dear air —We. the un/lentened passengers by the mail steamer Janet Niccol. on the occasion of hnr flret voyage under contract with the Uo vlrnment of New Zealand to the Pacific Islands, desire to racerd our sense of the courtCßy and attention received from you while on board your vessel. During six weeks wo have voyaged under your care, and have ex perienced a degree of comfort and security which Is only possible of attainment on Bhip hoard when the Commander combines the finalities of good seamanship and strict attention tadnty with a genuine bonhomie and constant aalicitadc for tho we fare of passengers. In pre- BentinK you with this address, we desire you to accent it as an expresEion of our regard, and ■with every wish for your happlnoea and pro.- Derity, and trusting that there is a long and hon ourable career before jou," (Signed by the saloon passengers.) The presentation took place in tha saloon last night when Mr Biss, in the name of the passen gers, nanded over the address in a neat compli mentary speech. The health of Capt Hutton was drunk with enthusiasm, and that gentleman responded in a short but appropriate address. Other toasts were proposed, including "The QoTernmentof New■ Zaaland." "Messrs Donald £?d Edenborougb," and "The Officers of the Janet Niccol." a happy hour being spent in celebration of the conclusion of a ploasant voyage.

THE BRAEMAR IN A GALE.

The barane Braenmr, Captain' Cow, which arrived at Port Chalmers from Glasgow yester day onoountered a terriflo Kale off Tory Isle on Maroh 1. On that day her lore topgallant mast waa carries away, and iv its fall smashed the saloon skylight and did other damage, besides Soring Captam Cow, the seoond officer, and the man at the wheel. During the gale it was impossible to clear the wreckage, which was smashing against the ve^el's sides with great violence: On the following day another ilerco »ale sprang up, and the vessol was forced to jro before it. On the 6th the gale moderated aid she wa 9 towed into Stornaway harbour, and suDseauenily returned to Glasgow. The Becond Start w°S moro foitonata. Her passage has occupied. 108 dara.

THE WAIHORA-MAY COLLISION.

WBM.ISOTON, this day. Ilia vessel was travelling up the lnrbouravthe rate ot three or four kn-ts per hour Ho pooh lost sight of the steanvrs pTt Hsht. and then «aw her mut-head light aud hor gre<Ti lieht on the starboard bow. Hb coneiuded tha bttamer wonld clear him safely. Immediately &,fter tbl», bowevor, the steamer showed h. r red light,

and she then looked as if sbo was going to crocs his bow Fearing there would bo a collision, he put his helm hard aport and dropped 'the main oil at the same time. The May started to pay oir. but almost directly afterwards the schooner ttruck the steamer about the mainmsist, carry- Ing away the schooner's bowsprit and all her head-gear. The steamer was going fast, and sb.9 went a long way down the harbour. The steamer, however, poon returned, and asked Whether any assistance was required In rontradiction of the above, it is stated on the Wainora (now in port) that when the col libion occurred the steamer was going astern, and ttiat she did everything possible towards preventing tho mishap, but without avail. THE TAINUI'3 AUCKLAND PASSENGERS. Mr D. B. Ci uickshank has received a, telegram from Shaw, Savill, and Company s agents at Dunedin, stating that the Penguin, which sailed North yesterday.took as many passengers as she could, ex Tainui from Plymouth, and that the balance will follow per Walrarapa 10-3 ay. The Penguin is due at Manukau on Sunday morn ing, and tho Wairarapa at this port on Monday next. The Tainui'a Auckland oargo will bo transhipped at Wellington, and will reach this port per To Anau on Monday, the 17th inst. The Tainui leaves Dunedin for Wellington on Saturday.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

The 5.6. Rotorua, which left for Southern Ports yesterday afternoon, took tho following passengers: -Mrs Brown and two children. Miss Hewitt, Messrs J. B. Smith, Carrick, Roas, W. O. Norris, Miss Huskill, Messrs Gibbons, Fraser, T. Ronnor,. Mitchell, llassett. Storm, and one native.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

New Plymouth, this day, — Arrived: Rotorua, from Onehunga, 5 a.m. Whanqarki, this day.—Arrived, from Auck land : Waitaki, at G a.m.; Olenelg, 620 a.m. Waitara, this day.—Sailed: Gairloch, for Onehunga, 2.50 a.m.; Stafl'a, for Onehunga, 3 a.m. Port Chalmers, yesterday.—Arrived : Tain sui, from Foochow: Braemar. barque, ICB days from Glasgow. She brings I.GOO tons cargo (of whioh 1,000 tons aro spirits) and 191 passengers. Sailed : JUundeo, barque, for Poreland. Paiii. this day.—At Kaipara Heads—Loaded and windbound: Marmion, Syren, and Trans port, brig.

Notices to Correspondents.

ASTRONOMICAL.—(I) The diameter oC the sun is stated to bo about 850,100 miles. X the sun in a true sphere (and it showa very little dovia tion from that shape) thocircumfurence would therefore be about 2.671.743 miles. (J) Ike or bit of the earth measures about 59C millions of miles. The earth, therefore, travels at the rate of 19 miles »second, or 1,011,600 miles in 21 hours. Richmond Road (Ponaonby).—The literal trans lation of " Vecfce cum laribus artoa" is "Arts carried (j» brought) along with the household gods." Subscriber.—Five.

Births.

NSTIN.—On July 31, at Shelly Boach Road, tho ■wife of John Nevin of a son.

Deaths.

GRAHAM. —On August 5. at Alton Road, Robert Graham ; oged 27 years. The funeral will leave kis late residence for St. Mark's Cemetery, Homuern, to-morrow (Thursday), at 3 p.m.

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

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5, 1885.

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

'The steamer Janet Nicoll has returned from her first trip in connection with the new mail service to Tonga, Samoa, and Tahiti, under Government sub sidy. The commercial delegates re presenting the various Chambers of Commerce and the Government will no doubt tell their own stories in dae time, but meanwhile our special re porter and the representative of the the Press Association give their impres. sions and conclusions. These are de cidedly favourable to the enterprise. The openings for trade are most encour aging in Tonga and Tahiti, on account of the settled forms ofgovsrnment In those islands. At Samoa, although the territorial resources of the group are much finer than at Tonga, the prevail ing anarchy, together with the trading monopolies that have already been established there, is almost fatal to sound commerce. In the Tpnga group the volume of trade dur ing the last thirteen years has increased a quarter of a million sterling, and this ratio of progression will no doubt continue. Both in com peting for the existing trade and in getting a foothold for future supply, there is a promising opening for com mercial enterprise in the islands visited. A serious obstacle, however, exists both in the depreciated currency and the want of return cargoes. Messrs McArthur and Co. have found it more profitable to ship their copra direct to England, instead of transhipping at Auckland, and their trade is balanced in the islands against native produce and South American dollars. To sell New Zealand goods in the islands for Chilian dollars and exchange them at an enormous discount here would never pay. The remedy for this diffi culty can only be found in providing such shipping facilities here as will obviate any loss upon the tranship ment of copra and other island produce at Auckland—or, better still, to manu facture copra into oil. Tahiti seems to offer the most favourable field of all. The trade there is now almost entirely in American hands, supplied by a line of schooners making monthly trips to San Francisco. The inhabitants of the islands consume worth ot goods every year, nearly of which consists of flour, biscuits, timber, salt and tinned meats, fish, cheese, butter and other articles of New Zea- Zealarid produce —the balance manu factured articles —which we are in quite as good a position to supply as Californian merchants. The distance being little more than half that to San Francisco, the advantages are all on our side. An unlucky incident, how ever, is the recent laying on of a Germam steamer trading between Tahiti and San Francisco, which, by keen competition with the schooner, his resulted in cutting rates —a ton of cargo now being carried from San Francisco to Tahiti for 255. How ever, the shorter distance should enable New Zealand to compete in the trade of this group upon any terms that will prove profitable to San Francisco merchants, and any under-cutting below that margin will rectify itself in time. It is gratifying to learn that the enterprising Auckland firm to whom we are indebted for the inaugu ration of this service have already established the supremacy of Auckland trade in the fertile islands of the Cook Group.

The political kaleidoscope has undergone another change. Sir George Grey having been waited upon by an Opposition deputa tion assured them that his amendment was not meant to shield the Government or lessen the moral effect of the rejection of their proposals. In deference to the wishes of the Opposition he did not move the amendment when addressing the House lnat night. The defeat of the motion for a Select Committee is now regarded as a foregone conclusion, although only by a narrow majority. The ■ effect will be most damaging to the Cabinet, but whether the blow will be followed by a direct vote of censure appears to be as yet undetermined, although a movement in that direction is on fo.ot.

Mr H. B. Morton has rccoived a telegram from Wellington announcing that the s.s. Tamsui, from Foochow, with the new teas, has arrived. Auckland consignments will be forwarded by one of the Union Com pany's steamers early.

At the close of the meeting held last night to consider the case of the unem ployed, the Committe which was appointed to carry on tho agitation thus commenced mot, and reeolved to prepare a circular letter to accompany the resolutions that were passed for transmission to Sir George Grey and the other Auckland members, as well as to the members of the Government. In this letter tho Committee will urgo the necessity of some work being at once found for the unemployed.

Some 56 of the unemployed in Dunedin have applied for work. At tho stone-break ing started for them by tho Corporation and 25 have started work.

John Kelly, a debtor, was examined on oath to-day * before the Official As signee. He said that he had been employod as fireman on board various stoamers during the laat ton years, and that his present insolvency was duo to failuro in at tempting to establish his wife in tho grocery business. His debts amountod to £04 10s, and his assets £20 10s.

A young woman named Eloanor Emma Butwell was brought up at the Police Court this morning on a chargo of drunkenness, and was fined 103. This young porson appeared in a seaman's dros3, cap, etc., and horhair being closely cropped,she had all the appoarance of a jolly son of Noptuno. She was practising a hornpipo last night in Queon-stroot, to tho amusement of a crowd, and presently gave effect to the popular song, "Sailing," until she could stand no longer. Constable Lamb, with questionable tasto, took tho feinalo voyager into custody, and found that ho had arrested, not "Jack come home from soa," but Emma, an old street acquaintance.

The Union Steamship Company havo ar ranged to run the steamers Omapere, Koranui, Mahinapua, and Grafton on a weekly service between Dunedin and Grey mouth, calling at Oamaru, Timaru, Lyttol ton, Wellington, and Nelson en route.

Mr Hales having sent plans of the alternative bridges over the gully at Arch Hill to Wellington, has now proceeded to Whangarei to inspoct tho Whauwhau rail way and other works.

G. F. Root's boautiful cantata, " Bol shazzar" (tho best musical composition of its kind as yet introduced into Auckland), will be performed here for tho first timo at St. John's, Ponsonby, to-night, in aid of the Organ Fund, with orchestral accompani ment.

Thofollowing Volunteer officers presented themselves for examination yesterday :—O Battery Now Zealand Regiment Artillory, Captain Whitnoy, Lieutenants Thorno, George, and Wastoneys ; Newton Rifles, Captain Birnio and Lieutenant Robinson ; Ponsonby Rifles, Lieutenant Taylor ; Ono hunga Na/al Artillory, Captain Huleo; Whangarei Rifles, Captain Storey, Lieu tenants McKenzio and Rust.

There will bo no lecturo on Friday oven ing in connection with thd ioung Men's Christian Association Rooms, It is post poned to the 14th August.

At tho special meoting of the Newmarket Borough Council that was held last ovoning prior to tho ordinary businoss meoting, tho question of confirming the by-laws was exhaustively discussed, and tho wholo matter was ultimately adjourned until next Tuesday evening, when it was decided to hold a second special meet ing for the purpose of considering the wholo of the by-laws. During tho discussion, somo sharp words passed between Cr. Jenkins and tho Mayor, Mr W. J. Suitor. At the second mooting these two gentlemen again crossed, tho Mayor tolling Cr. Jenkins not to obstruct tho business, whereupon he roplied that ho had a right to speak, and that tho Mayor wanted to do all tho talking himself. They, howovor, Boon coolod down.

The following team has boon coloetod by tho Newton Football Club to roprosont them on their match with Whangarei on Satur day next:—T. Mills (Captian), G. Walkor, E.Salt, W. Fairweather, J. Dobson, G. Osmond, Symo, T. Hobson, Murray, Makin, 'Aitkin, A. Pritchard, J. Smith, A. 8011, Goodman. The Waitaki leaves on Friday night, 7. 30 p. m. sharp.

The following companies assembled and underwent battalion drill last opening, at tho invitation of Captain Mahon, Lieut. Selfo acting as adjutant ;—Victoria Kiflcs, 42 nil told; Collcgo Rifle?, 58; Gordon Rifles, 41; Qucon's Own, 41. There was a total on parado of 182.

The namos of football teams intended for insertion in our Friday's it-sue should bo sent in tomorrow.

Tho noxt orchestral concert of tho Choral Society will tako place on Friday evening. The programme is one of the best evar pre sented to the subscribers, and contains a " Fan tasia Nationale," by l\ orr CarVSchmitt, and an "Agnus Dei," one of the prize takers at the late musical competition. Mr John Radcliff, the excellent flautist, has kindly consented to play on the occasion a grand fantasia by Pratten, "Mario Stuart."

The rehearsals for the production o "11.M.5. Pinafore " in tho Theatre Royal tomorrow night have boon attended by great success, and overytbing points to a highly satisfactory presentation of tho comic opera. Scenery of a very superior kind has been prepared by Mr Briggs, and a special featuro in connection with it will bo the manning of tho yards in truo nautical style upon tho arrival of Sir Joseph Porter. Mr Daweon has worked up the chorus to a very creditable degree of efficiency, and the soloists are in good voice. All that is now needed is public patronage, and upon that tho performers confidently rely.

William Gallagher, a young man of twon ty years, has been drowned while proceeding from Wairoa South to Auckland in an open centre-boaW boat. It ia believed the boat capsized while he was reefing.

The Gordon Rifles have arranged a shoot ing match with the Devonpoit N avals, to take place noxt Saturday at the Devcnport range. The conditions provide that there shall be 10 men on each sido.

The great production of " Tho Pearl Divers," full of absorbing interest to management and public alike, will finally be placed upon the stage of the Opera House to morrow night. It has been in almost continuous rehearsal for a considerable time, interrupted only by the nightly pF.rformance, to bo resumed at its close, and carried on until tho small hours of tho morning. It is impossible to fully estimate the amount of labour and ar tistic skill involved in the accomplishment of a production of tho magnitude of " Tho Poarl Divers." Messrs MacMahon and Loitch's Btaff of artistes, mechanics, and auxiliaries enga<rod in this spoctaclo will number not lees than a hundred, and they have one and all bent all their energies and intelligence to the accomplishment of such a miccefcs as will prove a brilliant and fitting termination of this able management's long and interesting season, and stamp it on tho memory of playgoers and tho public gener ally. The interest already excited by the coming production augurs well for tho lib eral response tho managomont'3 fresh en terprise is sure to meet with.

The popular Temperance service ot song, "His Father's Image," was rendered last evening in tho Alexander-street Church by the choir, in aid of tho addition and class room fund. There was a very large attend ance, the Church being nearly filled. Rev. A. J. Smith and Mr Watkinson, vico-super intendent,gave the connectivereadings, if wo may judge from the applause which greeted several of tho pieces. Tho service must have given great satisfaction. The collec tion amounted (including that taken on the previons Tuesday, when the weather was so inclement that few could attend,) to £5. It is proposed to have a lecture delivered in about a month in aid of the same object, some 8 class-rooms have now been built, some 4 or 5, we believe, are still wanted.

At the quarterly session of the Sir Henry Havolock Lodge, No. 1, N.&0.G.T., held in the lodge-room, Alexandra-street, on Tues day night, the officers' roports showed the lodge to be progressing. The number of members good on the books are 67 sisters and 90 brothers; total, 157. There is also a credit-balance due by the Treasurer. The following officers for the ensuing term were duly installed by the Lodge Deputy (Bro. Jflannery), assisted by Bro. Clifford, Installing Secretary, and Bro. Chalmers, Installing Marshall, viz ■ — P.W.CT., Bro. Lye, junior; W.C.T,, Bro. Wallace; W.V.T., Bro. Anderson; W.8.. Bro. A Weir; W.A S., Bro. Dunn: W.F.S., Bro. Mercer; W.T., Bro. Law. ford, senior; W.C., Sis. Duff; W.M., Bro. Petheriek; W.D.M., Sis. Cox; W.1.G., Bro. Lye, senior ; W.O.G , Bro. W. Thorn ; W.R.H.S, Sis. Smith; W.L.H.S., Sis. Crowley. A vote of thanks was passed to the retiring officers, after which the members indulged in harmony. The Lodge offers every inducement to persona to become templars, for, besides possessing a first-class piano, it has a splendid catalogue of books by the best authors, to which all members have free access.

WRECK OF THE KATE MAC GREGOR.

Hull and Cargo Sold for £92.-Insui< ances, £1,600.

By the arrival of the Island mail stoamer Janet Nicoll, we learn of the total loss of the Auckland schooner Kate Macgregor in tho harbour of Awarua, Rarotonga. The unfortunate occurrence took place on Thursday, 23rd July last, at the time the Janot Nieoll was taking in cargo at Raro tonga. To understand the position, it should bo explained that at Awarua there are two harbours, both exceedingly small, about half a mile apart. In one of these, that to the westward, the Janot Nicoll was moored, while in the eastern the schooners Atlantic and Kato Macgregor, both belong ing to Messrs Donald and Edonborough, were taking in cargo for transhipment to tho steamor. On Wednesday, the day aftor tho arrival of tho Janot Nicoll, the Atlantic was moved round to the western harbour and brought alongside tho steamor, and a quantity of cotton-seed was transferred to the hold of the lattor. It was noxt resolved to move the Kato Macgrogor and place part of her cargo, embracing 70 tons of arrowroot and a large quantity of copra, on board tho steamer; but a change in tho direction of tho wind had mado this an arduous undertaking—a steady breeze blowing stfaignt in shore. How ovor, Captain Schulz, the pilot, after con sultation, resolved to inako the attempt of towing tho schooner out with native boats and hoisting sail when clear of tho reof. Thw, from tho circumstances, was a per fectly safe course, and accordingly a number of native boats had lines attached and slowly pulled tho schooner through tho opening in the reef. Just as the reef was cleared and the sail set, the wind suddenly shifted four points, blow the sail aback, and drove tho vessel back just within tho harbour and on to the reef, the native tow ing-boats being powerless to provont the catastrophe.

The whole thing was tho work of a very short time—the veering of tho wind, the driving back of tho schooner into the narrow entranco, and her striking on the hard coral reef. It was at once seen that there was no hopo of getting her off, and steps woro immediately taken to save the cargo. After the arrowroot had been got ashore—most of it being wetted in the process—tho waves began to break over tho stranded vessel, she bumped severely, and water began to pour into tho hold from a largo hole in her bottom. By noon it was considered unsafe to romain on the vessol, and all tho crow and their clothing, &c, were safely landed in boats, Captain Schulz being tho last to leave tho schooner. As tho tido rose, the waves broke with greater violonco, making cloan breaches over the deck, while tho Kate Macgregor rocked and bumped violently, her masta being in momentary dant;or of going by tho board. It was resolved by Captain Schulz, who acted on behalf of the in surance companies, that tho test step for him to tako was to abandon the vessel and sell hor by auction and at half-past one in tho nfternoon tho sale took placo, tho Captain acting as auctioneer. After brief but spirited bid ding, the wreck was knocked down to Mr Henry Nicholas—the hull for i'o4, and tho cargo for £2S.

The purchaser immediately sot a crowd of Kanakas to work nt taking out tho cargo, dismantling tho vessol and gotting tho parts ashore, and tho ebbing tide naving loft the schooner much steadier, a good deal was accomplished boforodark. Next day (Fri day), amid a steady drizzling rain, the work was continued, aud by tho time tho Janet Nicoll left on Saturday afternoon littlo moro of tho Kate Magrogor than tho hull and two bare masts romuined on the reof. The wind had now changed to tho southward, and tho wreck was lying at rest, so it was considered tho purcliusor would make good salvago of tho lot.

The Kato Macgrogor was nn Auckland built schooner of 05 torn*, and was eleven years old—having boon launched from Jiigolow's yard in 1574. That sho was most faithfully built was evidenced by the way in which she withstood the tremendous bumping eho got on tho rocf, which, in tho opinion of several mariners on tho spot, would havo broken up most vessels of her she. Sho was insured for £SOO in tho Now Zealand Insuranco Company, and there was a floating policy over her cargo to tho extent of I'SUO in tho came ollico.

An ottidil inquiry into tlio loss of tho vessel will no doubt tako place horo at onco. Captain Sehulzo, with tho mate and steward, having como on to Auckland by tho Jauot Nicoll. Prior to leaving, tho captain mado his oflicial report to the British Acting Consul at Karotonga, and fortified himself by obtaining a written documont signed by six master mariners then on the island, cortifyiug that in their opinion it was a perfectly safe proceeding to take a schooner out of the upper harbour of Rarotongn during a light N.E. brcezo, such as prevailed when tho Kate Macgregor went ashore ; and that tho pilot, who has had fifteen yeoro' expori once, had repoatcdly to their knowledge taken out vessels in similar circumstances ; and that, in their opinion, tho solo cause of tho loss of tho Kato Macgregor was the sudden shifting of the wind.

Besidos tho serious loss to tho Insuranco Companies, the wreck of the Kato Macgregor is to bo deplored becauso of tho aggravated reputation for insecurity which it will give to the harbour of Awarua. About two years ago, Messrs Donald and Edonborough lost three vessels there in a single night's galo—tho loss being, in fact, not so much duo to the wind as to tho sea rolling in over tho reef and driving tho vessels ashoro. The most rocent catas trophe, though happily unattended with loss of life, would seem to show that oven in moderate weather the harbour is un safe, and tho fact that the Atlantic carried away her fore-topmast in getting alongside tho Janot Nicoll on Wed nesday, 23rd July, will go to strengthen that opinion. There is a moro capacious harbour at Ngotangihia, somo six miles oft', which used to be frequented by whale-ships, but tho bottom of which is said to be silting »P- .

VISIT OF THE QUEEN OF KAROTONGA.

Tiik long-talked of visit of the Queen of Rarotonga to Now Zealand will soon ba an accomplished fact, that august lady hav ing fully resolved upon taking the trip, in response to an invitation which ehc ro ceivcd in writing from tho Hon. Mr Stout, Premier of the colony. Sheintendsleavingfor New Zealand in Ootobor or November noxt. Makea Ariki (or chioftainets), of Awarua (called by courtesy "The Queen of Raro tonga"), who is tho recipient of tho in vitation, ia tho prineipul of tho three •hereditary rulors in tho island. The other two aro—Moro Paa (to whom Mr Albert Glover, of Auckland, is related by marriage), and Tonuimana. Tho latter's name, which signifies "great authority," issii)gularlyitiapplicablo,aßthoproßontchiof tainess has but few subjects, and exorcises but slight authority ovor them. The greater importance of Makea arises from the fact that she has jurisdiction over the port of Awarua, and over nearly all the European residents on the island. She is married to tho King of Atiu, another island in tho same group. It is not likely that he will accompany her on her visit to the colony ; but Tapou, a chief of "weight" and intelligence, and who speaks English fairly, will form hor male escort; while several beautiful and substantial " maids of honour" will go with her, not so much for tho purpose of waiting upon Her Majesty, as of advertising tho charms of the Harotonga ladies. It is not impro bable that Mr Henry Nicholas, an Anglo- Maori half-caste from Thames district, who is the leading planter on the island, and high in the Queen's favour, will also accom pany tho party, and act as interpreter during the New Zealand tout. The Queen, if not "fair, "can lay claim to the othertwo"f's" in theallitorativephrase sometimes employed to describe a middle-aged lady " inclining to embonpoint " She is, to judge of her fea tures, possessed of considerable intelligence, firmness and decision of character; while among the settlers on the island she is credited with tho possession of strong com mon cense, great moderation, and a lively sense of justice. In one respect only do they complain of her, and thatis with regard to her aversion to sanction improvements, such as the erection of a wharf, tramway, &c, which are much required for the prosecu tion of trade. The New Zealand com mercial delegates who lately visited the island took occasion to impress upon her the desirability of having such works carried out, and no doubt what she will tee in New Zealand will do much to con vince her of the boneiits acciuing there from. Makea is averse to goi:ig further South than Auckland, as ehe ip nf raid of the cold weather in the Southern! if uhe adheres to this,there will probably be some arrange ment made for a representative of the Government meeting her heie.

A Tour of the South Pacific.

A CRUISE ON THE JANET NICOLL,

(BY OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.)

This morning, the new steamer Janet Niooll, under contract with the Now Zea land Government for the conveyance of mails between this colony and the South Sea Islands, arrived in harbour from her first official trip. Captain Hutton has brought in his vessol in good time and in splendid condition, while the passengers including five commercial delegates-have all arrived in excellent health. The fol lowing notes of the voyage may prove of interest to the general reader, as beyond doubt the Soutli Soa Islands tour is destined to become one of tho most popular with Now Zealand and Australian colonists. Tho Janet Nicoll loft Auckland on Satur day, 20th June, about 3 p.m., in very dirty and miserable weather. She very soon ran out of the disagreeable " Scotch-miaty' drizzle which enveloped the northern shoreß of New Zealand, and next morning found her scudding along pleasantly beneath a cloar sky and benignant sun, In five days' running wo gradually passed into a warmer climato, until wo arrived at Tongatabu, tho largest island of the Tonga group. Tho sea water here, though it is mid-winter, registers 73 degrees of lieat, but on board the steamer we by no means found tho atmosphere sultry, though, wo wore glad to adopt lighter clothing. On shore, no inconvenience whatevor was ex porienced, though tho languid atmosphore disinclinos to exertion; there were no mosquitoes or other insect posts ; and the town of Nukualofa is clean, tidy, and free from smells, save the all-pervading one of cocoanut. Tho people, their dwellings and mode of life are most interesting. Tonga tabu being almost entirely level, the hillock of COft. high on which tho Wesleyan Church stands is considered a remarkable feature in the landscape. The building is of | irregular shape (I counted 18 sides to it), ana the general appearance is that of a Noah's ark stuck on an exaggerated molehill. By prison labour, Mr Baker has constructed a wharf over 300 yards long, by 12 yards wido, with two lines of tram rails running the entire length. The material used is blocks of coral, and there are two sets of steps for the use of boats—one mado of stone, and tho other of neatly sawn coral. A soa-wall of nearly 1,000 yards in extent has also been built in tho same way, extend ing from the wharf past tho Government buildings and King's palace nearly to tho British Consulate. Thero are many other objects of intorest. The winter climato is delightful, and Nukualofa s'lould become a place of rosort for invalid tourists. At present, there ia no hotel, but the Premier talks of giving Government aid to tho erection and equip ment of a first class licensed house for the accommodation of travellers. On the neigh bouring rocky and picturesque island of Eoa thero might bo a sanatorium erected, whoro invalids could pass tho summer months, if so inclined.

Interview with King George.

Daylight on Sunday morning, 28th, found us underweigh for "Vavau, a more northerly island of the group, whero King Goorgo has resided for four yeara past. Thoro is somo magnificent scenery at the entrance to this harbour, at ono time re sembling that of the South Island sounds, and at another looking not unlike that at the ontrance to Whangaroa Harbour. . The harbour itself is safe and spacious, but tho anchorage ground is of limited oxtont. This island, like sevoral others near it, is volcanic, and tho soil is of splendid quality. Wo found King Goorgo not yet roady to leave for Tongatabu, and had an interview with him, Mr Parsons, jun., kindly acting as interpreter. Tho King returnod cordial thanks for a largo illustrated volumo pro sjnted to him by ono of tho delegates, and cxpreesod his pleasure at tho action of the New Zoaland Government in Bending tho steamer to the islands. His Majesty, who is over 80 yeara of ago, is of dark com plexion, and his hair and beard being fiiowy white, ho looks like a living " Undo Tom." Ho talkod with ovident in telligence, and both physically and mentally gave no trace of imbecility, or of being tho moro puppet in Mr Baker's hands which some pooplo allege him to be. An English gentleman who has seen him very frequently during tho laat four years assured mo, however, that tho King is occa sionally no better thanan imbecile. Varau, which wo reached at 8 on the morning of tho 29th, was loft behind at 2 o'clock tho same afternoon, and the head of tho Janet Nicoll was again set northward, in tho direction of Samoa. Out of tho channol lined by thoso glorious crags and peaks eho atoamed, and past little islands of different contour into the open soa once more. As wo went, " the peaky islet shifted shapos," and tho islet which wasn't " peaky " appeared to bo revolving in mid ocean as wo steamed around and past it, On against a head wind and sea, during which the Janet Nicoll prances around in lively fashion, and some passengers with de licate stomachs are onco more thrown into the agonies of malde mer. On Wednesday morning, Ist July, wo pass tho island of Tutuila to the east of m, and soon aftor wo catch sight of the bigger and bolder island of Upolu, whither we are bound. Strikingly pict v resqueis tho scenery as woskirtthocoast of Upotu—hills piled upon hills rising into view, in every variety of shape, and of various heights, from 1,000 to 4,000 feet. Wo are now as far as we shall be to the northward, and the heat of the sea water has risen to 80 degrees. Our Visit to Samoa. About 4 p.m. on the Ist July we received .Captain Smith, tho Apia pilot, on board, and shortly aftur were at anchor inside the reef, surrounded by about two dozen boats and canoes filled with natives eager to "trade." This is in marked contrast to Tongacabu, whero the l.atives were either too rich or too proud to enter into business, and where wo could not buy an orange or a curio without a great deal of trouble. In every respect Apia is a " live town," and ono whore good trade should be done; but the climate jb too hob for it ever becoming an advantageous residence for European invalids. Strong people, however, do not suffer from tho climate. Mosquitoes did not trouble us, but some of our party who slept ashoro wore provided with mosquito nets on retiring to sleep. Tho heat is admirably tempered at this season by tho strong tfado wind that blows, and the municipal Government so appreciate this that they have passed a by-law interdicting tho erection of any building between the road and tho soa. At Apia we remained three full days, during which we saw a little of the place and people. Tho town is large and thriving, lighted with kerosene street lamp 3, and guarded by native policemen clad in grey uniform, and wearing a brass plate on their breasts with the letters "M.P." engraven thereon. Thoro is no Royal Palaco, State Church, or Govern ment officos as at Tongatabu, but the stores and residonces are on a soalo of comparative magniPcence._ Tho town may bo said to stretch in a single lino of buildings for a distance of nearly three miles along the bay, describing a semi-circlo. Native and European houses alternate, and there are two wooden bridges carrying tho road over separate fresh-water stroams which discharge into the bay. Tho single street of the town is crowded all day with nearly nude natives, half-casto women in flowing nightgowns, and European men, women, and children in complete dress. A very neat full dress (European) oonsists of white trousers, white shirt, and straw hat; the costume is airy, and not at all indelicate. There is a splendid battery place about half-amile up one of the fresh-water streams referred to, to which the male European residents and visitorsare in thehabit of going every afternoon. It is a Bhady natural pool about 20ft. wide by 200 ft. long, while the depth varies from a few feet up to 16 feet, and a deliciously cool and enjoyable bath and swim can be had there. No one bathes in the sea in these climates if they can get fresh water. On Saturday morning, wo are aroused from our sleep on board the Janet Nicoll by firing of g^uns, muskets, p'stols.andcraokers, and on inquiry we find that it is a demonstration in honour of the Declaration of American Independence. The assertive Yankees have the stars and stripes flying from their respective stores, along with other flags and bunting, and the day is observed as a semi-holi day, though the " trading " instinct is so strong that only one American store is closed.

At throe o'clock on the afternoon of the 4tli of Julj; the Janet Nicoll's whistle is blown for the third time, we bid good-bye to the British Consul and the Police Magis trate, who havo come oa board to Bee us off, by giving them three rousing British cheers as the Eteamer moves ahead and leaves their boat behind; and or.cc rcore the Janet Niccol is bound for the open sea. Eastward, and not northward, is now her course, how ever. With the mariners of Tennyson's "Voyage," we can now say :—

" Wo came to warmer waves, and deep Acres* the boundless east wadrove I Where those long swells of breaker sweep 1 The nutmeg rooks and tales of olove." 9

The Voyage to Tahiti.

I would not exactly swear to the "nut meg rocks," etc., but that may pass as poetic license. Our course is east by south east, for a change has been made in our plans, and instead of going direct to Tahiti we are to call first at Rarotonga, which is 850 miles from Apia. The south-east trade wind, which blows strong and steady, is, alas ! for us a head-wind, and the lightly laden Janet Nicoll makes but slow progress against it and the very strong sea running. Considering that our steamer is on an in augural trading trip, and that she has five commercial delegates on board, this conduct on the part of the trade wind is voted decidedly shabby; but the clerk of the weather, who is probably under German influence, doe3not heed our protests, and so we have to toil along and play at " pitch md toss " with the contrary soa, while we try to cultivate the virtue of patience. And Patience at last has her reward,for about 10 a.m. on Friday.lOth July, we got our first sight of the picturesque island of Karotonga rising like a lovely mormaidon out of the un fathomed caves of ocean. At first wo only see the peaks of three hills, which an imaginative passenger immediately asso ciates with the three queens who rule over the lovely island ; but as we approach, the island looms up larger and more distinct, and (contrary to the rule which says that " distance lends enchantment to the view _) more beautilul and inviting. It is five in the afternoon before we cast anchor off the town of Awarua, the capital of Queen Makea, whero the European population is concentrated. The scene here is most delightful. The town (or hamlet) stretches along the shore of the tiny and not ovor safe harbour —tho long mission school-house forming the most conspicuous featuro in the architecture; the stately cocoanut palm lifts its head high over the surround ing vegetation ; while as a background to the whole rise the hills in the centre of tho island to a height of nearly 3,000 feet. These hills culminate in peaks of most fan tastic shape — sometimes in huge bas altic rocks ehowfog their naked and per pendicular fronts- but in general they are tree-clad to the summit. One bold basaltic column, seen as you approach the harbour, resembleß a man in shapo, and is called "Old Young" by the residents, after the late Captain Young, of Auckland, whose rugged exterior suggested a close likeness between the rock and himsolf. On Satur day we go ashore and ramble about, while the Janet Nicoll lands 4,000 fruit cases, to be filled with oranges and ready for her return trip. The same atternoon finds us all on board and the Janet Nicoll's head set towards Tahiti, distant 680 miles. When fully half of this has icon run down, we sight tho first sail which has yet greeted our vision at soa—an island schooner beat ing up against the wind in the direction of Raiatea or Tahiti. This small sign of com panionship amid the lonely waste of waters soon passes from eight, and the mild ex citement which had been generated by its appearance subsides and leaves us to our humdrum existence. Daylight on Wed needay, 15th July, finds us in sight of the picturesque island of Moorea, separated by some eight milos from Tahit,' ; by break fast* timo, the bold mountain peaks ot Tahiti itself rise into view; and half an hour before noon wo have received the pilot and health officer of Papeete, and have dropped anchor alongside one of tho long lines of quays in the lovely, safe, and capacious harbour. The Prido of tho Pacific. The scenery at Tahiti very much re semblos that of Rarotonga, but it is Itaro tonga on a scale of greater magnificence and boauty. The town of Papeete ox tends for over three miles along tho beach, but the business portion, which is laid out in numerous streets and lanes, is confined to tho centre, and extends inland about a mile from tho shore.The view from tho harbour is most enchanting—the well-built town being backed by tho usual tropical vegotation, while abovo all riso tho mountain peaks to the height of 7,000 feet. For a special reason we find tho scene much more beautiful and animated on our arrival than ia usually the case. It is necessary to explain that, whereas all tho diarioß kept on board the Janet Nicoll agree that tho date of our arrival was tho 15th, wo discover that wo are a day younger than wo thought, for at Tahiti it is the 14th of July—tho great jour dv fete held inhonour of the taking of the Bastille. When still miles out at sea we caught sight of the shipping in thn harbour gaily decorated with bunting; as we came nearer wo saw similar signs of rejoicing on shore ; and as wo got inside tho circling reef anisteamod slowly to our anchorage, wo caught sight of a largo concourse of people, in parti coloured costumes, gathered on a level green esplanade, where wore also pavilions, shooting saloons, refreshment stands, and merry-go-rounds ; while crowds of natives and Europeans were moving about. Shortly after we enchored, the largo man-of-war, the Reine Blanche, the French flagship of tho Oceania station, fired a deafening salute of 21 guns, which is the signal for the day's sports to commence. For two days wo can do no business in Papeete, for everyone seems bent on enjoyment, and we are fain to do in Tahiti as the Tahitiana do, and take part in tho general gaiety. The archi tecture here is of a superior stamp to any thing to bo eeen elaowhere in the Pacific Islands. The Roman Catholic Cathedral is a large stona structure, with a neat spire and a beautiful interior, while the King's Palace, Governor's residenco, Palais do Jiißtico, and other public buildings, aro more or less imposing and substantial erections. The loading business placns aro of brick, while the European dwelling houses aro of timber. In tho centre of the town is a commodious market placo, which no visitcr should miss seeing, and, if possible it should be seen at 4 a.m., when business commences. The streets are mac adamized, and well kept, patrolled by native policemen, and lighted by kerosene lamps, while at nearly every corner is a standpipe for water supply, which is laid on from the hills, of excellent quality and in great plenty. These standpipes are mostly fixed in sunken receptacles 12 feet square by 4 feet deep, built of brick, with a little pool of water in the centre, tho over flow being carried off by drain pipes. It is quite a usual thing to see a native, heated and dusty, step down into one of these, and turning on the water, lave his or her feet and limbs in the limpid water. Tahiti en fets is Hk6 a vision of Fairyland, but Tahiti at any time cannot fail to bo a source of wonder and admiration to the visitor. The natives are handsome, well-dressed, gay, and lively; the climate not at all oppressive, being deliriously cool in the morning and evening; while tho scenery is over frosh and entrancing. It was with great regrot that, on Saturday afternoon, 19th July (New Zealand reckoning), wo bade adieu to this Paradise of the Pacific—a Paradise not with out its serpent, however, for intoxicants are freely sold to the natives, and crowds of French soldiers, marines, and sailors help to complete the demoralisation of this amiable and attractive people. Homeward Bound. By half-past 3 o'clock we have passed out of the harbour—dipping our ensign to the French flagship as we pass—and the Janet Nicoll is on her way back to Rarotonga. Many a longing backward look is cast at the pretty town of Papeete and tho reced ing shores, for we know that

" Morn, alas, will not reßtore vi Youdor dim and distant ialo;" but the shades of night close around, and murmuring, "Isle of beauty, faro theo well," we go down to dinner. This may sound very like an auti climax ; but after all, a square meal is better than a square mile of sentiment. After tlireo days of pitching, rolling, and general discom fort, we again reich Rarotonga, and the Janet Kicoll is, by skilful manoeuvring, not unattended with danger, backed through the narrow opening in the reef, and moored to cocoanut trees, &c, in the little cove which does duty as a harbour. We find that the barquentine Ada C. Owen from Auckland bad arrived off the island a few hours before us, and we are overjoyed to receive by her files of the Star to 7th July, giving us'the news of the world to that date. Here we witnessed the first real stir of business in .the South Pacific, Mr Henry Nicholas, the chief planter on the island, and Messrs Donald and fidenborough having dozens of natives employed loading the steamer with oranges and other pro duce. Here, also, we witnessed the wveck of the schooner Kate Macgregor, and had a further proof »f the unsafe character of the harbour in seeing the fore-top mast of the schooner Atlantic carried away as she was being brought alongside the steamer un tins lovely island we received the warmest welcome from natives and fcuropeans, our programme for two days T.uTtll^ 6. 884 from Queen M&kea, dinner 7 \ Mr Exham, acting English Consul, S -J?l ,Queen Mero Paa' nn3 dinner with Mr Nicholas and other New Zealanders. Here also we had the first day's wet weather we had experienced since leaving Auckland At last, on Saturday, 25th July, we eteam out ot the mouse-trap harbour, and the last and longest stage of our journey in entered upon. Our usual luck accompanies, and lor a week we are fighting against contrary wind?, head seas, and baffling squalls. A week after our start from Rarotonga we are only passing the Kermadee group of islands instead of being off the New Zealand coast. In the morning wesight Sunday Island, the principal of the Kermadees, and see smoke issuing from the volcanic mountain on that

island. By the afternoon we have left it far behind and are abreast of Macauley Island, while dusk finds us approaching Curtis Island, with Macauley still visible in the distance. Sunday and Monday pass in . wild, equally weather, during which we* sight no land, though the sight of a largo kauri log afloat in mid-ocean tells of its proximity. On Tuesday at 1.45 the cry of ••land" takes all hands on deck, and the peak of Mount Hob3on, on the Great Barrier Island, ia discerned straight ahead, and at a distance of 50 or 60 miles. With a south east breeze and a smooth sea we are now scudding along as rapidly as pleasantly, all is life and bustle on board, and time passes swiftly. Why dwell on the closing scenes which must be familiar to every voyageur, albeit their trip has only been to Whangarei or Tauranga? Suffice it to say that at three o'clock this morning we found ourselves safely berthed at the Queen-street Wharf, shivering a little, perhaps, in the chill Auckland air, after the climes of perpetual summer through which we haye been passing. It only remains to add that, thanks to the attention of Capt. Hutton and his officer?, thetrip was rendered most enjoy ablo; and though neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, I would venture the pre diction that the round trip by the Janet Nicoll will ero long bo exhibited in public favour as providing & delightful picnic on the South Pacific, and givingcolonial tourists andold-world globetrottersanopportunity of witnessing the wonders of the coral lands and observing for themselvas the manners and customs of the people who inhabit them.

CABLEGRAMS.

[by electric telegraph.— copyright.]

[SPKCIAL TO PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

The Melbourne Dredge Damaged.

London, August 4. —The Melbourne Har bour Trust dredge, the Melbourne, bound for her station, injured her propeller while passing through the Suez Canal, and is now undergoing the necessary repairs at Suez.

AUSTRALIAN.

(Received August s—l p.m.) Tho Military Sentences.

Melbourne, this day.—The question of tho sentence recently passed upon members of the Victorian Permanent Artillery Force came under discussion in the Legislative Assembly last night. A lengthy debate of a somewhat desultory character took place, but the House declined to inter fere with the action of the military authorities.

The Drivers' Strike.

No arrangement has been come to between tho omnibus drivers and the company, and prospect of amicable settlement appears very remote.

GREAT FIRE AT TORONTO.

[reuter's telegram.]

Toronto, August 4. A destructive firo occurred hore last night. The conflagration extended for fully half a-milo along the water side, completely gutting a largo number of factories, warehouses, and other buildings in it g progress. The damage done cannot at prosont be estimated.

THE CHOLERA OUTBREAK IN FRANCE.

[reuter's telegram.]

Paris, August 4. An 'outbreak of cholera has occurred at Marseilles of a serious character, upwards of twenty cases ending fatally daily.

SPORTING NEWS.

[reuter's telegram.]

Melbourne, Tuesday. The following additional scratchings are announced for the Melbourne Cup: —Archie, Burrilda, First Demon, Garfield, Gasconade, Hazard, Nopicallina, and Leap Year.

DIRECT STEAMERS.

Tho Arawa for Auckland.

Messrs L. D. Nathan and Company have received information that the Shaw, Savill, and Albion Company's fine steamer Aiawa will leave Plymouth at an early date for New Zealand, making Auckland her first port of call in tho colony. The Arawa is a handsome vessel of 5,000 tons gross measure ment, being somewhat larger than other of the direct steamers which have previously visited this port.

THE FRACAS AT THE NORTH SHORE.

Tho Navals' Version.

With regard to the alleged/racas at Devon port, referred to in our issue of yesterday, we are informed that tho Devonport Navals have a totally different version of the affair from that given by the complainant. They positively declare that all the blame and disgrace associated with tho affair are chargeable to the alleged victim of the assault. They say that when civilly asked if he had written a certain scurrilous article in a weekly paper with which ho is con nected, he struck heavily on the head with his stick the Volunteer of whom ho com plains, inflicting a nasty wound. Theiblow, of [course, drew forth active reprisals. The Navals have placed the matter in the hands of their solicitor, Mr G. N. Brassey, and we believe he advises the laying of an in formation for assault against tho spdrting critic, and wo are therefore likely to have the facts fully ventilated in the local court.

PALMERSTON TOWN HALL BURNED.

(JIY TELEGRAPH—fRESS ASSOCIATION,

Pauierston North, this day. The Town Hall was totally destroyed by firo at 11.15 last night. The Public Library. Borough Council Chambers, and Road Board offices in the same building, were also destroyed. The Road Board's Bafe was removed, but has not yet been opened. The Council safe passed through the fire, and on being opened the contontß were found uninjured. With the exception of a few papers and maps belonging to the Council nothing was saved. Walton's drapery and the Bank of New Zealand adjoining, had a narrow escape. Fortuna tely tho night was calm. Insurances: Hall, £1,000 in the uew Zealand ; Library, £100 in the same office.

THE SEAMAN'S UNION.-MORE TROUBLE.

Tub directors of the Northern Steamship Com pany have received a communication from the Federated Seaman's Union, In which the latter demand that another trimmer shalj be placed on the b.b. Galrloch, and that all firemen in the Company's employ Bhalj receive £10 a month for what is called "six hour shifts," This is considered by the Company to be a breach of the agreement made during tha strike which took place about the end of last year, when the Union rules were conformed to by the engagement of firemen at the rate of £9 per month, the present demand being for £1 increase. The demand ap pears to have been made at a moat inop portune time coming just atter it has been shewn by the Co's balance - Bheet that they have been sustaining a heavy loss while making a laudable effort to develop and improve the coastal trade out of this port. Capitalists do not invest their money in steamers from motives of philanthropy. It can hardly be tt c wish of a majority of the men to further embarrass the financial question whioh the directors have to grapplo with. We hope, therefore, that the present demand is not mado aa the preliminary to another labour strugglo which would be disastrous to both parties, and ttmt all points in dispute will be amicably and speedily ar ranged. The Secretary informs us that the aotlon of the Union is bated on orders from head quarterßatPortChaimers.requirinßthattherules bo adhered to. so that flroratin sh ill bo paid £9 for i hoar watches, and £10 for B hour watches. Members state that to neglect to follow these orders would render them liable to fines: and they «ssert that the company could easily aft unn Xp Olca^n atless. hOUr Wat°he8' ■Bd B0 Ba?e

Chambere'a celebrated sewing machines. 30. Queon-street,

THE SOUTH SEA ISLANDS.

EXTENSION OF T R4ftll i I (PER PRESS ASSOci ION The Janet Nicoll returned to^, B Islands with the delegates 2S:B Chambers of Commerce on the « \?'*»'■ the steamer to Tonga, Samoa 2% II Cook Groups, with mails und ' . '"N ■ «-New Zealand Government II gates are quite satisfied that' ■ ■! for commercial enterprise e^'^B islands, that the B urf ace hßa *^ ji skimmed by the existing £***■ New Zealand, if it i 8 not to be ii run in the race, must estahH.i, J«tJR' relations on a systematical htffSHiß opening of the Panama Canal *t*H M English influence is steadiW **«& Ml German, and the GoveraLWI*! ■ country, nhich has hitherto w!V( IE H South Wales as ite ooSeS^^B now seeks to enter intodL'Stß mumcationa with New ZeaW? &B Samoan German preasura ; "' SB more driving the natives to Jftq M under the protection of la E S«KHi man trade,, though still snnfrf 4 " kHi of other °a«»naHtie S> isyet a T&%i declining, and there Uevervin,?r2HHl the Deutsche Handel's Ln^H verge of a collapse. In Tahiti'Jl fX W Polynesia generally, there UetalY^Hi strengthen commercial relatfoniOTl* X Zealand. Indications fa fttoft» the whole of theielandsiS*! Zealand by means of a tradW -$B with an adequate capital aM™JSSKB every me, and it is of vital ifflX^B ourcolojy that such a'companv?rl!!t|B fully established before thToZ^il Panama Canal. As one sS&B company has absorbed almost tt!^" Hi trade of the Cook Group, Z Z^iS* H menfc of a strong New Zealand conm! - "Hr sufficient capital would abaotb flr'^H trade of the islands visited, drinV^M competition, and establiehiijoS"/HI land on tho line of the pM»m irBH route when the canal |i The currency, system now in voffß.fi H out tho islands would cause thaJSrHr ment of any company aunmrbrt lu^Hl to be hailed witfi ffiftftß. Europeans and natives. f There are some points of spedali B ance in connection with the liWp*iwi New Zealand, the followinglS^B noteworthy:— ""H Floub.- Throughout the iBlMd,v,H Zealand brands are all but Sl'ffll Two reasons are'given for 'thlioTzHr the flour will not keep, Md.Jndi'ifiiiß very difficult to work, Thn S ,'MI acknowledged to be pure whesSrlH In Tahiti, in fact, the <2» before accepting tenders for mSH 1 stores, had samples of California i™HB Zealand flours tested. New ZeJ R'= offered at the lowest rate, atiTS^JH on analysis to be absolutelypnisJuwi adulterated. The CalifornianSuiLKs; hand, was not pure wheat floiirW^MJ tained'an admixture of other «nU.»?Hi notably, I am informed, bsanainl TiK was found that tbia sdmixij» kU from deteriorating the flcur uwH '''■ its keeping qualities, and did'not SB its nutritive value. The NcwmJHl sample, though pure, was for dISH purposes absolutely worthlees. In SwHI in Tahiti, and in Rarotonga, itwiiSHj tho same story—New Zealand flmr Ug^p! bad on delivery (for it is assarted taiK often spoils on the voyage), is sere ig&ni teriorate very rapidly after landiig uj.fffi were assured that this applia MmiußH' Auckland and Oainaru brands, TluWßa ■- this unsuitability of New Zealandlnuiifll compared with California, for tit MB trade deserves very careful cOMidoiftjWl^ I would suggest the following m sUdMS a possible solution of the"offifmliJi-sHi California, from the time the gniiWES to ripen until it has been harreiWei^B garnered, as a rale, not j felffijP' of rain falls. In New Zaja4 irani grain is seldom got in thownghSrfaJ^] or, at least, it has been nwli^| saturated with moisture between Mi of the ear and the garnaring of tW||t' This, I think, must react on tie Ikb jig qualities of the grain, If oof i compete with Californian-raised pii » the manufacture of flour forconmajhi mat very warm, moist climates, i ebjN|l nti|9j superfluous moisture be driven'off toBB the grain is sept totiieinllll''lireiildiH| gest that grain should be trwUdsp^B mentally-the wheat being ikljK|j|| thoroughly dried, either in luln>or, jdfHH preferably, by currents of Hotair,aimiHß pombk after it has hem hamtd, \iMm before the superfluous mobttirt his b^fc €4f power to determine the feculaoEtkatNHh I believe it will be found to itsigif arresting of this deterioration telitttiWt fact of allowing the grain terwßilm too long before kiln-drying,;and.m4^^ kiln-drying itself, which lit U*m® "taken the life," as the express MH[ of kiln-dried grain. Californiante,4Hn is all rollered, and not ground. mm® Biscuits.—ln this line also, cannot seemingly compete with (Mii^jj —at least in the native trade. C^Pffiß California brands with both ByiSrußH Aulsebrooke biscuits, the adrantoiW^ in flavour and in crispnets eeeai toWM the two latter. TheCaliforniwiiiili (ConimutA on FourikFqii \r

PARLIAMENTARY GOSSIP.

(BY OUR bPECIAt BSPOBTBI|| It will bo remembered that dtutingfe»E' 't cess Sir Julius Vogel was credit 4 , doing a clever thing in nibbling t«I'|»; South Wales subsidy for the, J'SSR cisco service, he holding, MMWHt colony, that it was the New »*UK; Government, and not the eoatncWfflM| were entitled to the money. wffl| matter, Mr Hurst yesterday '■Pn'SmM: to ask the Government the niton "■■a dispute, and also if the GoTerifflwJ^K' refer the matter to arbitration m •»«■ ---ance with the terms of ttei<sffißß may add that I have reasoß WSJip the Government hare been tWgmß legal proceedings by the _ ™*L^H| Company, bo that it is in>pr#!MJßj Hurst's question will do morel* t>Jg. tho fact of the pending action. s;; Mr Buckland asks the MinW«r«"«|/ whether he willplacoaßgmofiM»?'"aM| Estimates for a road to Huntit. It is understood that the.(S3K; have decided to place a olauseioWJlggfe Powers and Contracts BUV : P™?*(JHp; Jones the satisfaction of the cWH'W; petition. l'ilJJßp*- In their grievances with ™e(™SHf '' the railway engine-drivers ™™j"jffl»> champion in Mr Bradahaw. o°.,*3a® he moves that the petition of enß*« and firemen in Dunedin, of aw""*jM» May last, and also coanter-F'^Mi! memo, by several of the sign»«w "JIW-; mentioned petition, askingUWt*?f rjSß|; be withdrawn therefrom, M p H " table. , •'..ifßw''" Mr Guinness inlands iDtrMO^^Mi limit the hours of occup»tlon.B^| ; classes of labour. The hon»inPß» to eight daily, and the nrt"?reJ^K.:' labourers, mechsnics, mineW) I"011"' jg; and navvies, ft"

MINING NEWS.

(BYTELEGKAPH.-OWKOOBBffIW' 11 «f Martha Extended (YVaihi).-*2J3HH| of the past few weeks' c™sbjJ|Sf* the manager has banked W""" ,fo: gold, for which about l.^^'JEt-, nave been reduced. The "fS^f quite up to the standard, Mo fSWj profit remains after providing w ! -• expenses. ... -nn&ilil New Nokth Stab.-A tnri«^M| 9 loads of quartz from tbis»» 9» it satisfactory return of 22JOM. jfi-. New MANUKAU.-OpewtfeM « started next week on the'W»S,iM| the Waiotahi mine at No. Ji»™ M® will traverse the company«P^LV; | has been followed ia it close to ~ ary. . _ Tdames Golt-en CkoW». Zx'MM. becoming well opened up, » wmm every likelihood tbat/.*S»!» stampers will be regularly e"*"'^ the future. '.. . otfflil DrxoN's Ct-4iM. — Wait -■^JWB crushed 15 loads for 32Joza ~ . (( Jlfffl Cambeia.—The man»(? er('f' fLiiiffl of specimens this morning in,,^i*[r. stope above the interroedWWJ.,: IMS good show of gold remainßi"^,

We beliktb that If «T? I7.^Sv'3^K Bitters freoly there would >*?SSpBK and misery In the world,,.?m $«*s« P< finding this out, whole W.K{iii|f a trifling cost by ite.usa. WOIW |«

THE AUCKLAND EVENING SI'AK. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5 1885



QPECIAL CHEAP LINES. 4-'9Bd. 93 «{D WORTH OF WARE- X^Ot Z O HOUSE AND TRAVELLERS' SAMPLES hare been pur chased by WILLIAM R. BRIDGMAN At a Heavy Discount, and will be Sold Cheap to dear quickly, comprising some very Choice Goods in endless variety In Gloves, Hosiery, Handkerchiefs, Sunshades, Umbrellas, Net Cur. talna. Ladies' Mantles, Corsets. Jackets. Cape* Ladles' Underclothing. Aprons. Pinafor£is,Cosias, Collars, Collarettes, Children's Blouse*. Robas Infants Wrappers, Hoods, Sun Bonnets, bfcm'a Shirts, Hats, Scarves, Boys' and Men's Clothing. £25 Worth of the Newest lines in leathers. being and exceedingly choice lot In phtmes and Ostrich Flats. As Ido not usually £oop,theu goods, will be sold oheap to dear nciekjy Large Lot of Windsor Soarves. boughtat Owen and Graham's Sale, from 8d tata, worth Is 6d to 2s. Sound goods Not having room for China Mattings, will Mil those in stock at a great reituotion Balance Winter Stock of Blankets, somu slightly sailed, at a great reduction Splendid Stock of Tweeds, trom cheap to vesy good, very much reduced Ip prioe Being rather overstookedin Clothing, will allow 20 per cent, discount for a short time to clean, as stock is too large in,thi« department barge Lot of Remnants, at very low rates. 288—Upper Qubsn.-stbsot.—2Bß* ORMQ N D S SWISS CIGARS Havq bean recognised as tho BEST lor half a century. Ei. F. C. RUSSELL'S "ENGLISH CURE FOR CORPULENCY" must not bD confounded with the so-called Anti-Fate. Full particulars on application to the Solo Agent, KEMPTHORNE, PROSSJiR, & CO. (UMITED), and RetaU by all Cherrists. FOR THE LAUNDRY1 AND HOUSEHOLD. LADIES ARK INVITED TO USB PYRAMID SOAP, ! The most economical Soap made in Nsw. ' Zealand. Full weight guaranteed. L. W. Mo G LAS HAN,. Wholesale Agent, COMPTON'S BUILDING^. X O T I O 8., * D ( R. wilFtn?,, jt.k.c.s^ q ttt- *? d SuJ tre% (or. fJoi>eral Practice anc 1 Special Practice-Ej-B, Aw, oad ThroatDiseeje i wiSi A g 1, ail., A't<".-nooBa; Sunday.!, 10.30 'a &30 Consultation f^ ye^ moderate. Dt. WILKI.NB spent sev Oa yeara at Mooref [eMa H}/n rWft Londor-, uaiw Mcfera Bowman a! (d Critchett, two » ;< tfcroat Uoßyital. London, sen on 7iX Pj7 Snaceoa Albert Hospital, at id l^iw, y at *?«• Sar, find Throat Infirmary Melbourne,, Acfiusts S-jectacles to Sight _ t/onsniur^j Kooms—Queen-street Auckland.



MILKE AND ChOYOB Bob to announce the purchase ot several CLEARING CLEARING LINES, LINES, From tho Wholesale, previous to flvelr Stock taking, at considerably less than Cost Price, and that tho Goods are marked at a very small advance on the cost M. and C. con now therefore submit the following SPECIAL LINES AT ABOUT ENGLISH PRICES. LARGE QUANTITY OF COSTUMES LARGE QUANTITY OF LADIES1 MANTLES, JACKETS, AND ULSTERS, Also. CHILDREN'S JACKETS, ULSTERS, AND COSTUMES. FORTY-EIGHT BOXES FRILLING. TWENTY-FOUR DOZENS BLACK SILK FRINGE. FORTY-THREE DOZENS COLLARETTES, BOWS, &c. QUANTITY DRESS MATERIAL. QUEEN AND WKLLEBLEY-STRKET3, AUCKLAND.



PILSENER LAGBEBEER FROM THB KAISER BREWERY. . Sola Agents for New Zealand— SEEGNER, LANGGUTH & CO., FIRTH'S STORES, ALBEBT-STREET, AMGKhAND.



TT L. POSSENISKIB, * MERCHANT TAILOR. Bhobtlawb-stbskt, Auckland (Opposite Messrs A. Clark and Sons), IMPORTER OF ENGLISH, SCOTCH, FRENCH. AND GER MAN COATINGS AND TROUSERINGS. COLONIAL TWEEDS. A choice assortment of Fanoy Testings, Tailor* Trimmings, &c. The Trade liberally dealt with. AG. BAKTLETT, • 154, QUEEN-STRKET. Chronometers, Watches, Clooks. and Jewel lery in groat variety, and mado to order or repaired; Poesy, Motto, Engagement and Wed ding Rings. Orders by post carefully executed. OR TROUBLES OF THE LIVER, DYSPEPSIA, INDIGESTION, FLATU LENCE, CONSTIPATION, HEAD ACHES, AND NAUSEA, j^ICKIN'S LIVER STIMULANT W2IX Act as a Charm. It contains the vcgotable Liver Tonics Euono myn, Pcdophyllin, and Taraxacum. PREPARED AT THE PHARMACY. Price, 2s Cd peb Bottle.



THE "STAR'S" CIRCULATION. We hereby certify that tfa number of Copies <ofthe "STAR " mnedfor ihe month of Ji"N'E I ALONE was 270,800,, AVERAGING TKR diem 10,415, which shows an increase in JUNE, 1885, OP 54-9 COPIES DAILY 0)1 the circulation in November, 1884, when our last examination vras made. JNO. MILNE ) Public J. WAYMOUITH (Accountants.