SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER.

AuoKtum)—This evening, 7.33 i to-morrow Manukau Heads — Thia evening, 10.13.; to morrow morning, 10,29. Kaifara Hbads — This evening, 11.13; to morrow morning, 11.29.

RUNSKT.-TMb evening, 5.53. BUNRIHK.—To morrow morning, 6.18. MIIOW-a AHK.~FuII Moon, Slst, U'J a.m.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY.

Asutralia, P.M. p.a Ghost, from Sydney Jlacifregor, s.s.. Johnson, from Whanfjarel Waitaka, s.s., Crawford, from Whangaroi

DEPARTURES.

r.AST EVENING.

Wellington, s.b., Stephonson, for Tauronga Clansman, s.a.. ITarquhar, for Russell Glonolg, 5.0., Amodco, for Mercury Bay

TO-PAY.

, Australia, P.M.s.s., Rhon't, for San Francisco ;

IMPORT.

Por Penguin—SO sacks malt. 20 sacks oata. 32 ikgs Hour, 392 keRB butter. 15 caskß, 1 bale, 3 , b ids, 19 cases, 4 horses.

EXPORTS.

Per Australia: For Honolulu—29l naoks pota toes. *or San Franclsco-20 bundles wlioio bono, 11 packages effects.

Inwards Coastwihk.—Ruby, from Whanpu roi, with 27 23.5 ft. timber; Ghost, from Orow«, <»ith lfi kauri loga: Swallow, from Ohorc, with o»gs Rum: .Tanot, from Whangaroi Heads, wi'h »o>i bushels limo; Fanny Kelly, from Mongon\u> wlih 32.3'0ft. timbor; MinuDa, from Hustmll. with 91 tens coal.

Outwaium Coastwise.—OHvo. for Cabbage Bxyi Doveron, for Bjirrior; (Jlioat, for Man gero; Janet, for Wbangarct Heads.

.• ThosohoonorWolcoinn is oxpected to loavo taniani withoargo for thia port during the pto« ■ant week.

Tho brimwtttiro Sarah I'ilo arrived at Welling ton from Knlpara yoßtonlay.

Mr C. Bailey was tho succassful tondoror for stripping. caulking, and coppering tho barquo Ferdinand.

An inquiry into tho wrock of the b.s. Thomas Tlusaoll wiU take placs before a Nautical Court to-morrow.

It was leakago that caused tho ecow Ghost to capsizo Off Kawau on Tuesday. She was rißhted without loss of any cargo, and arrived ii harbour t)-day.

Tno brigantino Parnoll, from Mongonul. and the barquo Presto, from Kaipara, arrived at Sydney on tho 20th inst., and the brlgaatlne Arattjau, also from Kaipara, was there two <Jaya later.

Tho brigantino Lookout loTt Sydney for this yort on tho 31th mat, with aoS bags bonedust. 1,050 snokes. 1,000 felloos, SO tons coal, and 10 biles fibre.

»Tho brignntlnes Adelaide and Seabird were loading at Sydney for this port when the mail eteamor left, and tho brigantino Camilla had cleared outwards for tho Kaipa'a.

The a.B. Macgregor arrived from Whangarel e^rly thia nfoTning with 125 saoks gum. sundries, «nd the following passengers: - Missoa Stewart, Itongbottom, Adoir, O'Carroll. Ward, Nicholson. Donnisa, Moadaraes O'Carroll, Nicholson. Jand \oU, Uennisj, Horn, Waddell. Messrs Williams (3), O'Carroll. Weiss, Ross, Wilßon, Poteraon, ■and 0 in the steerage.

Ihe sb. Waltaki arrived from Whangarei early this moraine, with tho following »wgengors:-Miss E. Clio. Mrs McDonald. Miss jyloUonald, Mrßoakloy, Mrs McCauloy, Master Hill, Messrs Cartor. Holland, Adams. Tilly. Gee, Dale, Cleaver, Paseloy, Mr and Mrs Boyd. H. C. Hoiraan. Flux, Mr and Mrs McDoll and family (olghi), Suitor. Mr and Mrs Tremain, Oildwoll, Mr A. Scott, Mr Adams. Mr Starkoy. Miss Peace, Mrs Peterson, Mrs Clarkson, Mrs JB lylia and son, Mies Crisp. Mrs Reosc, Misa A. Matgor, Mr Stanley, and 10 in tho steoraße.

The German brigantiho Mathilde. which put t5 re o1-??H£ y°st«r<3ay afternoon, left Vavau on tho 20f.1i February with a full cargo of copra lor Lisbon. Somo vtfry heavy weather caused the vc3iel to look so badly that at ono time the water roso so faat in the hold that there ap peared a very small prospect of keepiDg her afloat. It was decided to make for this port, and in duo course it was reachod. but in tho meantime the leakage had almost stopped. The vessel will have to undergo a thorough ovor haul before reraraiajr her voyage.

THE MAIL STEAMER.

Tho P.M.S.S. Australia, from Sydney to ABck land, Honolulu, and Sin Francisco, arrived in harbour about midnight, and berthed at Queen s'reet wharf at 8 a.m. Captain Ghest roports: Discharged Sydney pilot £G'h March at 3.55 p.m.. and experienced light N.W. winds and fine weather to Nonh Cn;e, and calms and smooth sea down the coast to port. Paßsongers: For Anoklund-Mr H. H. Grconway, Mr A. S. Thorn, Mr and Mrs Wade, Mia Wade, Mrs S'nne, Mr Ingold, Dr. Fischer. Professor Rice, W-fe and Company, and 7 stoeraKe. The Australia resumed hor voyage for San Franciaco thU afternoon with the following pwseogers from this port:— Mr J. K. Wright, wife, mid infant Mr Jas. Alexander and wife, Mr J. Palmer and family, Mi«ses Alexander, Ruin, and Russell, Mrs S. C. Cooke. Messrs G. w. Woolfe, Brooken, Jamos Ashbury, W. A. Savons, E. Schofield. C. E. Peck, W. Griffiths. Col. W/F. Scott, J. Palmer, W. Hayman, H. Walker, T. T. Fountain. P. Mellow, 8. Stewart, W. Mncfarlnne, W, Kettle.

THE RUAPERU AT PORT CHALMERS.

The direct steamer Rtmpehu, which arrived a Port Chalmers yesterday afternoon left Ply month on the 14th February at 1 p.m., arrived at Teneriffo at 0 a.m. on the2oth. Left atsp m. on tho same day, and had modersto weather til arrival at tho Cape on March 7lh at 7 p.m. Ivcft again at 2 am. on the 18th, and arrived as above. A very heavy jrilo was experienced on Ihe 21st, during which some slight damage was done to sails, bosts, etc. The Huapehu brings £0 ealeon, SO second class, and 101 steerage pas senger* for all ports including tho following for Auckland : - Siloon:|Mr H. T. Symonds. Second Saloon: Mr and Mrs W. E. Burwostcr, Mr and Wra B. Pink.Messrs C. J. L Pratt, K. J. Scarte Mias Graoo Walker, and eighteen third cabin.

POUT OF ONEHUNGA.

THE PENGUIN.

The 8.8. Penguin, 710 tons. Captain Allman. arrived at Onuhunga 7.45 iudi. to-day. She led Wellington at 3.15 p.m. on tho 29th, arrived at Taranakl at 7 a.m. on the 30th, left again at 1 p hi., crossed tho bar utC.3O a.m. on the3lst, and arrived as above. Experienced north-west wind. Passengers: Misses Coney, Brown. Crisp. Roso, Mr and Mrs DavU and family, Mr and Mrs Sugden and family, Mr and Mrs Finch. Mr and Mrs Smith. Messrs Edwards. Lark worth. Yuille, Williaroß,Hatflcld, ProfflttHope. Clifford, George. Lakig, Hill, Bmlth. Little, Scott, Stanaell, McFarlane, Hipirini, Morrison, Patterson, Clarkson, Hickey, Hormon, Dryden, Reeves, Given, Cunningham, Charlos wood. WnlcottWood, R. Millar, D. S. Millar, Judge O'Brien, and 17 steerage. Tho ss. Penguin loft again for Southern ports this afternoon. Pas- Bengera: Dr. York, Miss Smith, Mrs McKenzie. W. H. Drake, Mr and Mrs Heather and two children, H. H. Peppin, H. Johnson, Rev. T. J. Wallace. H. Burls. Miss Marsden, Mr Smith, Mr and Mrs Rickerby, and four children, and several in the steerage.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Wellington, this day.—Arrived: Haloione, ship, Parker, from London. ' Sydney, this day.—The Bototnahana arrived on Sunday afternoon. Lon»on, March 58.—Arrived: Otaki, from Ly ttelton, November 29; Cingale»o, from Lj■ ttel ton, December 3; Antares. Lyttelton, Docomber 18; and Nelson, from Port Chahxers, December 3.

COMMERCIAL.

Kveniuo Stab Office, this day. It. C. Gbbknwood sold at his mart to-day 475 forfeited shares in the Crown G.M. Co., Limited,

SECOND EDITION. FRANCE AND CHINA.

WAR PROPOSALS REJECTED BY THE FRENCH SENATE.

Resignation of the Government

(Received Marsh 31—2 p.m.)

Pabis, March 30. In' tho Chambor of Doputies to-day a division took place on tho motion for a further credit for military operations in Tonquin, with tho result that the Govern ment were defeated.

Tho Premier, M. Julos Ferry, accordingly placed tho resignation of himself and col leagues in the hands of President Gr6vy.

THE INDIAN AND COLONIAL EXHIBITION.

Address by the JPrinoo of Wales,

(BY OABIiK—COPYKIGUT.)

(Received—2lst March, 2 p.m.)

Loxuoif, March 30. A mkktim! was hold at Murlboiough House to day, at which His Royal Highness tho Prince of Wales presided, with reforenco to tho preparations for tho Indian and Colonial Exhibition in London in 1356. His Royal Highness in the course of an address stated that this exhibition was essentially of a national and Imperial -character, differing entirely from its precursors, in which trade rivalry and profit had boon the paramounnt features and he trusted to tho strength and union of the Empire to ensure success.

The Indian nnd Colonial Governments had guaranteed aeumof i'sl,Ooo,find £76,0C0 had boen promised by English firms. In stead cf the system hitherto pursued of jury awards, commendatory medals would be pre sented to each exhibitor. The Prince fur ther stated that facilities would bo afforded to visitors from India and tho colonies for visiting the chief industrial centres of Groat Britain. His Royal High ness expressed his intontion of tak ing some personal active part in the work of the commission as he had done in tho case of the Paris Exhibition, and con cluded with the hope that the Exhibition would convey to India and the colonies tho assurance that while England was deeply moved by their patriotic support during present trials, sho still retained a wish to assist in tho development of their material interests.

Sir Philip Cunliffe Owen has been en trusted with tho executive details of the Exhibition!

LATEST WELLINGTON NEWS.

Pcaco Anticipated,

Armed Cruiser for Now Zealand.

(BY TELEGItAPII.— OWS CORK£Sf OdbJitlT.)

Wellington, this day. Captain Badiiam, of the Royal navy, at present in tho employ of the Tasmanian Government, has been sent to consult on defence matters, and leaves immediately.

A cablegram from tho Agent-General states that the outlook at home is mere pacific. The Agent'Goncral has been instructed to endeavour to purchase an armed cruiser suitable for coastal defence, the vessel to be subject to the approval of tho Ad miralty.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails win Close as t/ndkb—

This Day,

For Russell ana Kawakawa, per Wairarapa, at Kor'wiiangurei Heads, Farua, Walpn, Whan gore!, Kamo, and Mangapai, per Maogregor or Woltaki, at 6 p.m. For Thames, per Kotaku, at 5 p.m. AyBWNESDAY, Ist Inßt. Foi Whanaarel Heads, Kamo, and Whangarei, per Wellington, at 9 a.m. For Coromandel. per Coromandel. at 11.30 a.m. For Thames, pet Rotomahana, at 1.30 p.m. For Waitara. etc, per Gairloch, at 1 p.m. For New Plymouth, Wanganui, and Southern porte, i c ■ Oretl. at Ip.m. For Port Chalmers, Dunedin, etc, per Binga rooma, at3r.m. "A, ..,. ~ For Whangaroa, per Kreimhilda, at I p.m. Thursday, 2nd inst For Walwera, To Kapa, Warkworth. eta, per Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Gisborne, Napier, Southern porta, and Australian colonies, per Wairarapa, at 11 a.m. ■ ' • S. B. mm, Chief Foatniaater Chief PosUffloo, Auoktena.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

March 31, 1885. Opera House—"' Fun on the Bristol," 8 D.m. Otahuhu Public HaU-Prltchurd Family, 8 p.m. Birkonhead Woßloyan Solreo—Tea at 0 p.m. United Methodist Freo Church Solroe-Tcaat 0.30 p.m. Parliamentary Union Kloction, St. James's Hall, 7.30 p.m, City Schools Committee—7.3o p.m. Onahunga-Opcning of now Koohabito Tont, 8 p.m.

Births.

BROOK.—At Parnoll, tho wlfo of G. A. Brook

Of a daughter. STICHBURiY.—Maroh 2!), at Bolmont Terrano, Itemuora, Uio wile o£ William Stlchbury of v son. «••

Marriage.

MACKELLAR - KIPLING. -On Saturday, Maroh 28, 1885, at St. Mark's, Wellington, by tho Kov. 11. Coldoy Edwards. Edward 1"). M. Mnokollar, M.U., to Mary Eliza Kipling, daughter of Colonol T. M. Ilaultain, Auck land.

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

For the o»qbo that locks asalqtanoe, For the wrong that neods rosistanot. For the future In the distance, And tho good that wo con do.

TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 1855.

Sin Julius Vogki/s fourth rccoss speech, delivered in Dunedin last night, was chiofly devoted to an oxpoaition of tho Ministerial local govornmont proposals. Tho Troasuror alluded very briefly to Ills echomo of sub sidisihg loan companios to lend money at 5j per cent., but what ho said makes it more manifest that tho Govornment havono intention of submitting any measuro of the kind to Parliament, Tho schomo has, in foot, been condemned by every financial authority in the country as chimerical, umrorkablo, mischievous, and savoury with tho odour of jobs, big commissions, and patronngo. Tho Treasurer's allusion last night appears to have boon provoked by thoso criticisms. Tho Press Association 'jßummarv statos the substanco of his remarks ■■her vaguoly :—" A number of objections "firthis proposal (ho said) were made, par ticularly tho one that tho margin 1J per cent, would not bo sufficient for tho pur poaos of tho company, and ho quoted tho returns of similar companies in England in support of his arguments. Still ho rocog nised that though he thought tho proposal pcrfoctly feasible, there wan tho strong ob jection against tho Government interfering in this way with privato business, and that was an objection in regard to which ho re served his opinion." Although hot vory clearly put, weinfer that thisineans a virtual abandonment of the schomo, and that wo shall hoar no more about it.

The Treasurer's statement of the local government proposals which will bo sub mitted in tho con. ing session confirms what we have gathered from previous spoechos, that the basis of tho schomo will bo the enlargement of tho duties and powers of the counties, and the gradual absorption of tho road boards, Sir Julius Vogel stated that no compulsion would be exercised over tho smaller districts, but " inducements would be oiVored for them to come in, co that eventually there would bo only two forms of local government." Tbo naturo of tho " inducoinonts " is disclosed in a subsoquont part of tho speech. The countios aro to bo subsidised bodies, the Government contribu tion to bo distributed from year toyoaf on tho amount of their assessment. Tho Treasurer said:—" They proposed to adopt a sliding scale, giving too largest subsidy to tho smallor boroughs, and to apply tho ganio to the counties. Somo counties had their roads, &c., made, and did not require as much assistance as other counties. Then

they proposed to givo t««e subsidies, de pendent on three conditions: (1) That they should be liable to meet loan charges ; (yj that they should bo expended on new roads or removal of bridges or widening of roads, not on maintenance merely ; and (3) that they should be expended within the sub division in proportion to the rates raised therein. They proposed to give local bodies extra borrowing facilities, and to make the voting for loans work on a more rational principle than at present, by re quiring a majority of three-fifths of the total votes polled. Another point of essen tial benefit would be the giving of power to capitalise interest during the construc tion Of local works. Thoy also proposed to allow local bodies, at their discretion, if they did not think fit to raise special rates it meet interest on loans, to levy tolls fur the purpose." Tho Uoverninont whip over the road board is furnished by tho provision insit t ing that tho subsidies shall bo strictly localised. If Government grunts in aid aro mude to countios only, and aro to bo spend in proportion to rates raised within the new uiibdivisioDa of counties representing tho old road districts, tho ratepayers will necessarily find it to thoir interest to commit tho act of eolf-nnnihilntion. Sir Julius Vogel'B naivo intimation that tho Government would not adopt any forcing process in bringing about tho cbango, but would "offer inducements," is very like the gentle persuasion of a guileless parent who tells his rebellious offspring that ho is not bound to obey o. given command, but that failing to do it, of course he will go eupperlosg to bed. The "assured revenues" consist not merely in subsidies, but in moro taxation. The counties will oxercise somo control over the police, but thoy are also to boar a share of the cost; tho gold ox port duty is to be abolished, but the counties may lovy a local tax on the production of gold ; and they will have every encouragement to raise loans for improvements, bearing locally the charges for intorost. Thoy may even undertake district railways upon guaranteeing half the cost, the Government paying the other half. Charitable aid—including the cost of hospitals—will also bo mado a local charge, supplemented by Government subsidy. For this purpose the colony is to be divided into large districts, either identical with tho old provinces or large subdivisions. The scheme is well-considered and com prehonsive; that it throws local services more and moro upon looal effort is inevit able. These subsidies aro mere temporary expedients, paid for out of loans, and must ultimately come to an end. Tho scheme is admittedly not original. Sir Julius Vogel stated that it had been found to work well in Victoria, and ho be lieved also in Canada. This is rather an advantage; the colony should profit by the experience of- other countries ; and in this connection wo should liko to bo informed of the result of Mr Seed's missic n to report upon the local government system of other countries. The United States furnishes a vast experience of successful local govern- Hnorit schemes, in one of which New Zealand might surety find a final solution of tho question which voxes the spirits of a large portion of her public men.

The Sinclair and Gillies Scholar ships.

The establishment of tho'B science scholar ships for students who have not the means to pursue their studies without pecuniary aid was a step which reflected equal credit upon the liberality and sound judgment of the gentleman through whose instrumen tality the bequest was set apart. Tho Registrar of the Auckland University now warns science students throughout the colony that tho first examinations will take place on the 26th of October, and will be held simultaneously in Auckland, Welling ton, Oliristchurcb, and Dunedin. The scholarships, which are worth £100 a yeat each, and tenable for three years, are open to persons, male or female, between the ages of sixteen and twenty years. The examinations are to be purely scientific, with'mathematics added, and we learn that special weight will be givon to attainments and capacity in zoology and botany for the Sinclair Scholarship, and in chemistry and electricity for the Gillies Scholarship. We sincerely hope to see a numerous list of candidates, and that among the students of Nature who haye been furnished by theßo soholarshipH with the means of devoting themselves to the pursuit of science will be found in after years New Zealand Tyndalls, Watts, anil Humphrey Davys Of all studies, science is the most practical and utilitarian, and promises the best material results to a nation, and the founding of these scholarships will, we believe, be the means of promoting the useful art 6 and ap plied science in New Zealand.

The latest news from St. Feterburg, as telegraphed by the correspondent of the "Daily News," is indicati/e that Russia means to "knuckle down" in the present desputo. It is stated that (he reply to the English ultimatum has been despatched, and is ouch as will probably lead to a pacific solution of the difficulty.

Mrßryce. M.H.R,,ie now In Auckland to givo evidence before a Commission which .8 appointed to take evidence in tbo libol case of Bryco v. Rusden. Mr Ft D. Fenton andtho Hon. J. A. Tolo have beenappointed Commissioners to not on behalf of Mr Rus den, and Mr Bryco has appointed Messrs James Kussoll and A. E. Whitaker. It is expected that Detective Walker and Sorgeant Dunny, having in their cußtody tho prisoner William Sheohan, will loavo hero for Wellington about Tuosday nexj, in timo to catch tho s.s. Ruopehu, which is advertised to leave for London on April 11th. Mr Napior doos not intend to appeal to tho Supremo Court by writ of habeas corpus, but lias instructed a leading solici tor to tlofend prisoner at the Cork assizes. Aftcrtho examination before tho Magistrate; Sheehan forseveraldaysappearod depressed, and his appearaneo changed visibly, but latterly he has boon in good spirits, and professos to tako a hopeful view of tho situation. Tho various Jowish placos of businoss in town woro closed to-day for tho Feaet of tho Pasaovor. ■Mr A. J. Cadinan, M.H.R. for Coro mandel, returned to Auckland by tho s.s. Wairarapa yesterday, aftor a lengthened absonco in Napier on privato business. Tho Mount Eden Assossmont Court has boon formally adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock. JU^Constablo Lamb arrostod a man naisol John Smith this afternoon on board tho mail boat on a charge of sloaling clothos, etc,, valuo £5, tho proporty of Duncan McAlpin'o. Boforo Mr JubUco Gillios, in Chambers today, lottors of adiniuialruUon woro ordered to issuo in re Winifred Denver and Jus. Roid Sovoral applications woro postponed. An ordor was made for taxation of piuintiirs bill of costs in Luck v. Brodio; and on tho heating of judgment summons in Brown v. Shoohun, it was ordoicd that unlcas tho full amount of claim—£l97 3s—bo paid into Court within ono month, tho debtor eba'l be committed to prison for three months. Tho defondant in tho last-named case is tho ox-Nativo Minister of tho colony.

An accident of a painful nature happonod yesterday aftornoon to o young man named Bright, employed at Mr G. Hulino's butchering establishment. Ho was chop ping a pioco of meat, when tho chopper oamo down on tho index linger of his left hand, causing him to loso ono half of his finger. His injury was dressed at tho shop of Sir Ilaslott, chomist.

Mr W. Aitkon has writton to tho Harbour Board signifying his uccoptanco of tho position of assessor in rospect of tho compensation claim of £45,000 against the Govornmont, but suggesting that he could hotter servo its interests in tho position of valuator.

Tho rowing races at tho Ponsonby Re gatta should prove unusually interesting, several crows boing at prosont in training (or tho diflbront ovonts, and especially in tho whalobout racos some very closo con tests aro likely to take place. Tho pro gramme includes nineteen ovonts, tho first of which is to start at 10 a.m. Tho Northorn Company's fine steamer Clansman has boon placed at tho disposal of tho lio gatta Coinmittoo for use as flagship.

A man namod William Bibby was arrested by Constablo Donovan to-day on v chargo of theft.

A senman named (Jeorgo McGirvan was takon into custody this morning on a chnrgo of drunkonncss, and absonco from duty.

It is oxpected that tho man Holland, now in custody, will bo charged with tho larcony of goods to tbo valuo of about £20 from Captain Olson's hoiiao. The things aro eaid to havo been taken from tho houso on Saturday and placed in pawn, and tho inonoy epont in drink.

AH tho officials in tho Govornmont Survey Ollico at Gisborno hnvo boon clothed with tho garmont called "tho sack." It is part of tbo general schomo of tho retrenchment of tho Survey Dopartmont.

Tho residents of Cobdcn-strcot, Newton, aro getting up a potition to Mr Inspector Thomson praying that ho will cause tho ininatos of Mrs Wight's brothel to bo removed from that street.

Thoro aro on exhibition at Mecßrs Stead man and Co.'s warehouse a stand of dahlias, which for eiee, colour and beauty wo havo never seen excelled in Auckland. They are from tho garden of Mrs Speight, Parnoll.

Tlio collection At the oponing sorvices o! tho Hirkenhc.id Wesloyan Church on Sun' day amounted to £7 4s Id. Tho churcli soiroo will be hold this ovoning.

Isaac Gardener, tho bushman who was seriously injured at Mercury Bay somo days ago, is slowly improving at tho Hospital, and somo hopes aro now entertained of his recovery.

Honorary and ordinary members of tho Choral Society should note that tho dato of the next concert has boon nltorcd from 141 h April to Thursday, 9th April, on account of tho Choral Hall boiDg ongogod on the lllh for tho Art Society's Exhibition.

Tho Now South Wales Govornmont aro taking nil noccssary precautions for tho de fonco of Port Jackson. Preparations art, boing made for an Enstor Monday review and demonstration, whon tho Volunteers will man the batteries all along tho choree, and ropol un attacking floot represented by tho Wolvorino from scawaod.

A young man named Patrick Con way, eighteen ypars of ago, whilo apsisting to-day to build a chimnoy in Eng'aid-stroct, Pnnsonby, accidentally foil from a laddor and broke his loft leg above tho ankle. Ho was takon to tho Hospital, whoro tho fractured bone was sot by Dr. Bond.

A number of now Justices of tho I'oaco have beon gazetted. Thoso for.this district nro:—Messrs U. i\ Anderson, Auckland ; A. Brown, sen., Tuakau ; John Fairburn, Otahuhu ; M. Harding, Mangawharo ; W. McCullough, Auckland; W. G. Scott, Onohunga; and J. S. Watorhouso, Manga whare. ,- :

A social gathoring of tho teachors and older echolara of St. James's Sunday School was held last evening for tho purpoeo of prcecnting to Mr and Mrs T. Maoky, who recontly were married, two usoful volumes of litoraturo in romomborance of their con noction with the echool. Tho presentation was mado by tho Kov. It. i l. Macnicol, and Mr Macky suitably responded. The rest of the ovoning was dovotod to music, road ings, and parlour games.

John Holland, charged with unlawfully wounding Mrs Olsen, of Nelson street, was brought up at the Police Court this morning before Messrs E.G. Clayton and C.Laßocho, Justices. On tho application of Sergoant Pratt, the prisoner was remanded until the Bth inst.

With a nation like Russia it is of no use to tender the olive branch in one hand if tho sword is not at tho samo time unsheathed in the other. In the year 1813 Britain had 1,053,000 men in arms, 1,003 vessels of war, and all tho armies of Europe (excepting France) were arrayed in British pay on the banks of tho Khino, and this after a twenty two years' war with France. If Britain could mako such successful ofl'orts more than seventy years ago, what may who not accomplish now if put to the push !

The inquost on Sarah Amelia Elizabeth McOuirk, aged 16 years, who was drowned last week at Harapipi, was hold on Thurs day before Mr Gresham, coroner, and a jury of thirteen, ot which Mr J. H. Thompson was chosen foreman. Evidence was given by the father and mother of deceased, and by Dr. Blunder, which went to show that deceased had been drowned in the creek by falling into about two feet of water while Buffering from an epileptic fit. The jury returned a verdict accordingly,

The Finance Committee of the Harbour Board have deferred the consideration of tho New Zealand Timber Co. und Gas Go.'a applications for permission to reclaim land outside their allotments in Customs-street.

Mr W. h. Walton, of the Postal Depart ment, Dunedin, on bidding adieu to his fellow officers previous to his removal to the Auckland office, after ton years sorvice in Dunedin, was tho recipient of a vory hand some eight-day timepiece. Mr Barr, tho Chief Postmaster, made tho presentation on behalf of the staff, and spoke of the high esteem ho personally had for Mr Walton, and which ho felt sure was thoroughly endorsed by all those by whom ho was surrounded. Mr Walton tendered lis thanks in appropriate tonns, and trusted liia future in Auckland would be but a continuation of the happy past spent in Dunedin. Mr Walton and family arrived in Auckland by the Wairarapa.

Shortly before nine o'clock last night, a fii'e broke out in a house in Victoria-street West, a few doors below the City Hotel, and occu";elbyMr Banks, his wife, and family. It appears that a kerosene lamp placed in a bedroom at tho back of the house burnt, and set fire to the s'raw mattrass of thn bed. A few buckets of water extinguished the flames before much damage vas done. Thi^Jje^Bkng, an! the firemen hurried out nrpraptta out their sarviees were fortunately not required. Owing to a wrong signal being sent to tf c Brigade Hation.it was at first thought that the location of the fire was Thornton, Smith, and Firth's mill. '

The mail steamer Australia, which arrived from Sydney last night and resumed her voyage during tho aftornoon for San Francisco via Honolulu and Samoa, brought 12 palooh and ? steerage passengers fof Aiickland, 2 passengers for Samoa, 9 for Honolulu, and 69 saloon and 53 steerage' passengers for San Francisco.

Our special correspondent tolegraphs from Wellington that the home industry branch in connection with the New Zealand Exhibition is boing readily filled up, and in co.isequonco, tho timo for receiving applications for opaco has been extendoa to 30th April. This extension doos not apply to thp gonoral branchy applications for which closo to-day, but to tho depart mont dovotod to articlos of homo manu facturo made by artisans, and womon and children. Mr J. B. Gillillan, tho local Socretary, has received fully thirty additional applications for spaco Binco tho last list was published, and it will bo interos tintr to our roader3 to loam that amplo exhibits of local fruits and honoy have been arranged for.

Tho Harbour Board cxpoct to bo in a posi tion to tako possession and enter into occupation of thoir handsome new officos within tho next fortnight.

A parado of tho Hobson Company was held at tho Drill-shod laßt ovonjng, thoro boing present Captain Dignan, Lioutonanta Clifton and Connolly, and 36 rank and lilo. Thoro wore also a few mombors of tho Naval Artillory prosent. Tho men wore exorcised in ordinary anl guard-mounting drill, in view of tho forthcoming oncamp mont. Havrosacks woro served out to all tiio men prcsont.

Those who believe with Mr Roos that in co oporation is to bo found the panacea for all labour disputes will poruso with interest tho remarks made by Mr Cranwell at tho annual social gathering of Mossrs Garlick and Cranwoll's employes on Saturday last. Tlii.s linn, wo may add, do not stop short at tliourimng on tho subjoct, but havo given practical oll'ect to thoir ideas by offering bonußoa to thoir apprentices for oxcellence of work, punctuality, &c. Tho result is that tho lads tako a doopor interest in thoir work, and aro stimulated to groutor oxer tionß, bosides boing oducatod up to tho co operative idea, that tho interests of em ployer nnd omployod aro identical.

An ordinary mooting of tho Lumpers' Union was hold at tho Totnperanco Hall last ovoning. Soverul slight alterations woro mado in tho regulations, und othor buijiness of a routino character was transacted.

Tho Lilliputian Opera Troupo performed "La Fillo do Madame Angot" on Satur day night in tho Opora Houso. Thoy intond playing a short season at Thames, but prior to leaving will perform two nights in tho Theatro Royal horo. On Saturday night thoy will produce " Tho Little Duke," and on Monday " Pinafore " will be playod yet again.

Tho following tenders wore rocoivedby Mr T. Holder yostorday,for ueix-roomod cottage in Parnoll :—Pothrico, £265 ; Jenkins, £305; Brown and Koyburn, £307; Burns and Koanolly; £343; Gydo and Calvor, £318; Chitham, £387; McKay, £414 ; Maisloy, £415 (informal); Barribal, £389 ; Morris, £413; Woolor, £435. For five roomed cottago, Noleon-streot: Pothrick, £225; Brown and ltoyburn, £240; Con stablo, £247; Podloy, £259 ; Barribal, £285; Davis and Evans, £297; Woolcr, £207 ; Burns and Koanelly, £207 ; McKay, £317; Maisloy, £332.

Amongst tho passongorswho arrived hero by tho Australia today, woro Professor ltico, wife, and company, who purpose re maining in Auckland for somo timo to givo a eorics of mind or thought-reading entor tuinmonts. Professor Kico is said to bo ex ceedingly clever, and his follow passengers during tho voyniro testified their satisfaction with im ontortaimnont which he gave on tho 28 th inst. in a neat testimonial. In this it was stated, " liis ability as a mind and thought-render, in finding various articles thought of by us (eomo of them of tho smallest and most obscure kind) leavo in our mind no doubt of tho genuineness of his powers, end the high point to which thoy have bcon carried." Mr Errington reports to tho Harbour Board that sinco his last report the con tractor for tho Calliopo Graving Dock has mado good progress with the works in hand, the amount of work done being fully up to tho terms and conditions of contract. The main copper dam is nearly completed, and tho contractor will be ready to pump out on Monday. Tho shod measuring 66 feet by 66 feet, and to contain 8,000 barrels of Portland cement, is nearly roady for the floor and roof of iron, tho material for which is on the ground. They have also thoro about 400,000.feet of sawn timber, which will bo principally used in tho con struction of tho main copper dam.

During tho voyago of tho btcamehip

Runpohii between tho Capo and Port Chalmers, whore cho arrivod yostorday, a

very hoavy galo was oxjwrionccd. It commenced on tho 18th, and incrouecd in

violence till tho 21st, whon it blew with

torrific forco, and was accompanied by n high sea. Sovoral pails, although furled, woro blown elenn nwny, and somo of tho boats woro stovo in. To incronso mwfortuno, about 12 tons of caustic soda, which was stowed away in drums forward, broke adrift, and woro washed into tho stoorago pasecngorij' quarters, whore thoy caused considerable damage Tho passengers wcro immediately removed to tho saloon, and directly tho woathor moder ated the steerage was thoroughly cleaned. The Itunpcjiu brings about a dozen passen gors for this port, who will arrivo hero by tho Union Company's next stoamor up tho coast.

Detective Hughes arrested a labourer named John Michio yesterday aftornoon on tho chargo of obtaining certain sums of money, by mcuns of fraudulent representa tions, from Thomas Nutsford, juwollor, of Victoria-otrcot. It is alleged that Michio wont to Nulsford's shop, and after claiming tho proprietor as an old acquaintance, represented himsolf us tho possessor of £800, which was banked at tho South. Ho said ho was getting tho money trans ferred to an Auokland bank, but in tho meantime ho was short of funds. Pending the receipt of his money, Nutsford claims to havo lout him fivo Bums of 10s each. Finding at last that Michio had no inonoy in a Southern bank, ho gave information to tho police. Prisonor was brought up at tho Police Court this morning and formally charged with tho offence. He pleaded guilty, but tho coso being an indictable one, ho was remanded till Thursday next.

Tho forthooming Exhibition of tho Auck land Society of Arts promises to surpass in point' of general attractiveness, and also in variety of work, tho exhibition of last year. Up to tho present tho energetic Secretary (Mr J. L. Holland) has entered twenty now members, and as the Exhibition of original artistic work is an indispensable condition to membership, each of tho t ji-cnty may bo set down for one or more pictures. The old members bid fair to bo as well represented as usual, and promises of entries havo boon received from Dunedin, Nolson, and Wanganui, while Christohuroh ia depended upon to send her customary consignment. A feature is likely to be mado of the loan collection, as, in addition to the score or so of new pictures received from Mr Mackelvie during tho year, it is likely to embrace a number of paintings from Otago which have been displayed at art exhibitions at Home. The opening conversazione has been definitely fixed for Wednesday, the 15th of April, and the Exhibition will remain open until the 25th— perhaps longer, if the patronage of the public bo well sustained.

It is one of the most remarkable facts of the day that, notwithstanding universal educa tion, there are still people who hoard up their wookly savings in a stocking, when they tniKlit KCt eight per cont. Five shillings a week thui hoarded would amount, to only £'/8 In six years, when, witn interest, It would yield £110 In the eamo period if investod with the Industrial and Provident Building Society, Queen ■ street, corner ol Vulcan Lane.

At tho Theatre Royal'at noon to morrow, It. C. Greenwood holds an extensive salo of Rcmuora land, comprising tho wholo of the property formerly owned by tho St. Hellers and Romuora Land Company, consisting of nearly 51) acres, with magnificent vlows of the harbour. North Shoro. and surrounding country. The property extends from the residence of J. Mc- Cosh Clark. Esq., on the Romucra Road, to that o£ Thos. Morrin, JCeq., on tho beach, and is cut up into 163 choice allotments. £10 deposit secures the freehold of n.n allotment.

Lovers of light literature will notice that a choice collection of w<ill-bounrt novels Is lo be offered for sale tomorrow, at S. Cochrane and Son's auction mart, in conjunction with a library of works of heavier mental calibre.

To-morrow, at 11 o'clock, will be offered by Mr G. Lewis, at hia rooms, one of the largest and most complete lots of Iron and brass bed steads and cots that has been offered for some time. The goods ara all in splendid condition, and well worthy the attention of the trade.

We *cc by advertisement that Meßsre E. and A. Isaacs -will sell by auction, at their stores. Wednesday nest, the wreck, of the p.b. Thomas Rusßtill, a3 she now lits at Oiete Point, in thj Bay of P)«nty. This should Kuarantee a good attend* o . and it got off might prove as good and profitable a speculation as the purchase of the B.s. Triumph. We have no doubt all nauti cal men w!U be in attendance.

A special evangelistic service will be held In the Theatre Royal on Good Friday night, at 7.30, when epeoial addresses will be delivered.

BURGLARY AT PUKEKOHE.

The Post and Telegraph Offlee Broken | Open.

TiiE I'tißb ttfld Telegraph Office at the Jukekdhb Railway Station was ladt night burglariously entered In a niost detei mined mannor, the intention of the Miscreants who committsd the outrage evidently being to porpetrato robbery. The first that was known of the1 occurrence was when Mr Lewis, the station - master, reached the station this morning. He found tbo iron safe lying outside.the olfice, and an examination showed that strenuous efforts had been made to break it opon. There woro marks of heavy blows on tho face of it, and other indications of an unsuccessful' attompt to priso it open. Tho door of the ofiico was found to have been broken opon, and within the room wero a sledge hammer and a spade, which have sirico been idenli fiod as belonging to Mr Luke Wilson's smithy, from which it was believed they woro stolen. Tho place had not beon rifled, and from appearances it seemed as if the burglars had left their work rather hurriedly. Petty larcenies havo been common in the district for Bomo time past. Sevoral days ago, Mr Usher, butcher, had an axo stolon, and on the fol lowing night Mr Sullivan, another sottler, lost a turkey. A duck and some fowls fol lowed on tho two succeeding nightß. Last Saturday night, Dr. Dalziol's stablo was visited, and his bridle stolen. The bridlo was, howovor, of a fiomowhat_ remark ablo construction, and as it might easily havo been traced, the thievoß naturally did not desire to retain it. They tboreforo went to tho Rev. Lawry's stable, and stole his saddle and bridlo, leaving in thoir place tho bridle taken from Dr. Dalziel s, but at tho same timo taking the tollioring rein. The natural inference from all this would bo that a professional thiof is at work in tho district, but it appears that no suspicious strangors have beon observed thoro lately. There is good ground for believing that thcße crimes havo beon committed by several Pukokoho youths of larrikin proclivitios, who aro anxious to obtain notoriety. That they are likely to obtain it may resonably bo imaginod, seeing that the occurrences in question havo been reported to tho police authorities hore. It is just about twolve months since the Pukohoho. Post and Telo graph Offices, wore broken opon and somo monoy stolon, and had tho Government redeoraod thoir promiso to Mr Hamlin by orccting an additional room for tho tolographist to sleep in, tho safety of tho promises would havo boon ensurod and a boon conforrod on tho residents, who would then havo been enabled to communicato with a modical man in coses of sudden sickness and emergonoy. The ocourroncos which we havo related also show .tho nocessity for a police constable to be stationed at Puko koho.

OPERA HOUSE.-" Fun on the Bristol."

A SBAsiOH of cloven nights with what,in ad joctival redundancy, tho play-bill terms " tho farcical, musical, topical, nonsensical, whimsical absurdity" of "Fun on the Bristol," was inaugurated tit the Opera Hoiisb last night, before a very large audience. Tho performance elicited frequent ttpplausb, and diffused a spirit Of goneral hilarity, bo that tho success of tho piece may bo sot down as an accomplished fact. Wo aro not unacquainted with tho stylo of cnkirtaimuont amongst which "Fun on the Bristol " takes a high rank. Snlabury's Troubadours, in their well roniemborcd farrago of danco, sketch, and jong, entitled " Patchwork," and more re cently, Clark and Byman's feeblor essays in the «amo field, have made the play going public familiar onough with theso varioty extravaganzas. Like its congenors, "Fun on tho Bristol" is pro vided with the slondorest of plots, and liko them, alto, thoro is in it constant change, and yet a lonjjßcquonco of boisterous, frolic some fun. Tho Widow O'Brien is a buxom Irish-American in easy circumstances, and with an unconquerable penchant for those unconscious solecisms of speech in the glaring misune and apprehension of words which ate associated with the names of Sheridan's Mrs Malaprop, and her more modorn rival, Mrs Partington. Tho Widow's household consists, in the .first place, of two gushing, but very high-brodf daughters, around whom clandestinely flutter two for biddon lovers, and also of Bella Thomson, a colourod servant, whose husband pays oc casional visits after a rather unceremonious fashion. Then thoro Is a pseudo-Italian Count in tho rfllo of musio teacher, but with an oyo to the Widow's fortune ; and finally there is Captain Cranlmry, n gruffold sea-dog intent upon marrying his bashful nophow to tho particular Mies O'Brien whom he does not want, The lirst «ct is played out in tho dowager's drawing-room, and comprises a great many absurdities of dialogue and notion, bosides a number of musical selections such as the trios, "Music Lessons" and "Paddy Duffy's Cart," tho quartettes, " Annio Laurie " and "Twinkling Stars," ami the song, "Shnndon Bells," which was given so offoctivoly by tho Widow as to ensure » prompt encore. In the socond and third acts, tho scenes of which are laid in the saloon of the Bristol—a steamer plying betweon Now York and Boston—tho fun grows fast and furious, and change suc ceeds chango with great rapidity. Tho soidkant Count has prevailed upon tho Widow to run off with him, attended by her coloured servant; her daughters, in disguise, also take passage, and likewise, in ignorance of this fact, their lovors. With tho seasick widow floundering about the saloon, begirt by a life-buoy, the fun attains its climax, and tho plot—such as it is— finds a denouement in the atrest of tho 1 Count as a notorious bigamist, and tho union of the irrepressible lovers. Mr John F. Sheridan, who impersonate" tho Widow, is a character-delineator of considerable talent and versatility. Hia make-up was exceedingly clevor, his brogue rich and racy of the soil, and his by play and action i very comical. In his assumption of tho 1 part of the tramp during a musical melange in tho third act, his versatility was amply displayed. Tho portraiture was realistic. Tho other members of tho Company pro docidedlyclover in their respective special ties. Mibs May Livingstono, who plays the part of the nogro help, is a sprightly and graceful danseusc, and a capital mimic. Her imitation of the characteristic melodies of tho "Jubilee" singera was porfoct, accompanied as it was by the facial contortions, nervous gosturos, and general gusto with which tho Amorican slaves used to render thoso peculiar hymns. She was vocifer ously encored again and again. Mr E. C. Dunbar, who plays as the Count, is an actor of experience, and a cultured-baritone singer and musician to boot. He played several musical selections upon the Italian piffero, or fife, with considerable skill, and sang "The Gallants of England" so capitally, and enforced its effect so ably by expressive gesture and attitude, that he was emphatically encored. His significant substitution of the line,.'' When tho gallants of England are up fer the Queen," was not lost upon the audience; Miss Alice Wool dridgo, as the public already know, is a pleasing vocalist, and. her rendering of " See! How it Sparkles " brought down the house. Her acting was also good. Miss Fanny Sarony has a nice con tralto voice, and both sang and acted well; while Mr Willie Freear proved himself to be a very skilful step-dancer. Mr Hrtrry Sullivan plays the low comedy negro, with its usual business, with, great spirit, and Mr J. A. Meade makes a satisfactory sea cap tain, "The Turkish Reveille" was capi tally executed by the orchestra, while the Company as " The Dandy Blues " in dumb show affected to discourse it upon prepos terous implements of the kitchen. It only remains for us to- add that the piece is mounted in first-class stylo, and that the saloon of the Bristol is a very meritorious illustration of the scene painter's art. Those who affect variety entertainments and have a liking for broad humour should not fail to see " Fun on tho Bristol."

MUTING NEWS.

(BT TEttiGRAPH—O-WW COBBESPONDEHT.)

Thames, this day. Nf,w Pjunoe Imperial.—The return for the month's operations is 2Coozs retorted gold from 315 loads of quartz.

Caledwivn.—Crushing is in progress a the Herald battery with ten stampers. Rocky Point. —Tb.9 manager baß crushed 63 loads of quartz for the payable return of 66ozs. 12dwte.

Cambria. —The interim retorting baß given the excellent return of sSijoza. gold. The final cleaning up for the mouth takes plnce on Saturday.

How to Get Sick.—Exposa yourself day and night, Bit too much without exercise, work too hard without rest, doctor all the time, take all the vile nostrums advertised, and then you will wanttoknow . ~«vc« ~.,. ..¥«_-.. »

THREATENED ANGLO RUSSIAN WAR.

[BY CABLK.-OOPYRIGHT

REPLY TO THE ENGLISH ULTIMATUM.

Russia Wishes Pe«icc.

(Keceivod—3lst March, lpm.)

London, Marcli 30. - The "Daily News" publishes a despatch from its St. Petersburg correspondent, stating that tho reply of tho Russian Government to Earl Granvillo's com munication of tho 16th March is now on its way to London, and further, that it is couched in conciliatory language, and is likely to lead to a pacific aottloment of tho difficulty.

MOVEMENTS OF RUSSIAN CRUISERS.

DEFENCE OF THE AUSTRALIAN

CABLE LINJK,

(Received 31 st March, 1 p.m.)

Melijourne, this day.—lt has transpired that the Government recently received an unofficial warningfromSingaporotothoefFoct that several Russian cruisers had loft there, and proceeded in a northerly direction ; and they were again warned on Friday that the Kussian ironclad Admiral- Gonoral, lfl guns, 4,000 tons, was at tho Capo. In consequence of this news, iVTr Service municatod with tho promiera of tho various colonies in cypher, and this has given riso to unusual activity in tho mattow of defence. Adelaide, this day.—Tho Govornment are in communication with Admiral Tryonj commanding tho Australian squadron, with' regard so tho measures necessary for tho protection of tho Fort Darwin cable. WAR PREPARATIONS IN ENG LAND. London, March 29. In view of tho present omergoncy in foreign affairs, the Government aro charter ing foreign vessels belonging to tho prin cipal steamship lines to act as armed cruisers, if occasisn should require. Aggressive Attitude of Russia. London, March 25. Russia continues aggressive, relying upon Mr Gladstone's weakness, and believing that tho Premier is not disposed to proceed to extremities in connection with tho fron tier difficulty. London, March 23. The roporfc that M. do Giors, Kussian Minister of Foreign Affairs.had resigned is now declared unfounded. The natives of India continue to show the greatest loyalty to the British throno. The Russians afo fomenting disorders among the natives in tho Ponj district, tho object being to creato a pretext for intor feronco.

Guns Shipped from London.

(Received March 31—1.30 p.m.) London, March 30. The guns for tbo defence of Tasmania have boon shipped. Defences of Sydney. (Received March 31—12.30 p.m.) Sydney, this day. Measures for strengthening the defences of tho colony are occupying the attenion o* Government. Activo military preparations are on foot for eocuring tho position- of Sydney Heads, Botany, and Newcastle The Defence of Melbourne. Mkmioubne, this day. Qiicotißcliffo Fort has boon manned by a detachment of permanent urtillory. Other preparations of defence aro being rapidly proceeded with. Torpedoes aro being sub morged in various positions in tho bays. Pilot cortilicutos of captains of coasting ve*Bols aro suspondod for a time, and addi tional pilots havo beou uppoinlcd in conee quoDCO. ______________

FRANCO-CHINESE WAR.

Defeat of the Frcucli-—Evacua tion of Lniigson. — General Ncgricr Wounded.

[by cable.—copyright.]

Paris, March 29. Advicks from Tonquin report that tho Fronch have beon greatly outnumbered in the recent engagements with tho Chineso, and hare beon compelled to evacuate Langson, which placo thoy recently occu pied. General Nogricr, who has charge of tho operations, has boon seveioly wounded. General DeLisle, Commander-in-Chief, has applied to the Government for further reinforcomonta. Further War Vote to be Asked. Pauis, March 30. In consequence of General Bruce De Lisle's request for reinforcements for Toh quin, the Premier, M. Ferry, will ask the Chamber to vote 200,000,000 francs credit for military operations in that country. '

POLITICAL NOTES.

Wellington, this day. The Colonial Secretary's bill dealing with the reconstruction of the Legislative Coun cil simply limits tho time for which mem bera are nominated. The bill will be intro duced into the Council early in the session, but the time to which seats are to be limited is not yet decided hy the Governor.

Mr Buckley is drafting a lengthy Charit able Aid Bill, which will, it is understood, embody the principles of the bills now in force in England and Canada.

CABLEGRAMS.

(BY CABLE—OOPYBKIBI.)

(Received March 31st -1.30 p.m.) Lord Derby and the Federation Bill. London, March 30.—Lord Dorby has agreed to excise clause 23 of Federation Enabling Bill, but adheres to clause 31, providing that the Council could only be enlarged at the request of the various Legislature?. Lord Derby doubts whether : the bill would be comparative without New South Wales agreeng to join in. Haitian on His Late Defeat. Sydney, this day.— Hanlan freely admits hfe complete defeat by Beach, and hia con viction that the best man won. New Zealand and tbe Federation Bill, London, March 24.—1t is probable that Lord Derby, Secretary of Sttte for tho Colonies, will retain a clause in the Enabling Bill permitting any of the colonies to retire. In view of this probability, Sir P. Dillon Bell, Agent-General for New Zealand, is convening a mooting of the Australian Agents-General to consider the matter.

[SPECIAL TO MELBOTONE " AGE,"]

London, March 20.—The Emperor of Ger many has consented to the portion of New Guinea which has been annexed by Ger many being called Kaiser 'Wilhelm'B Land.

Colonel Owen, of the Royal Artillery, re cently appojntsd to succeed Bownes as Commandant of the South Australian mili tary forces, has been gazetted Brigadier- General.

London, March 22.—Dr. Webber, re cently appointed Anglican Bishop of Bris bane, will leave for Queensland in July. Financial authorities in London regard this as a favourable time for floatine the colonial loan,

COLONIAL DEFENCES.

Although tho gentleman whb'initiated in Auckland the project of raising rtnd equip ping a company to form part of a Hew Zealand Contingent, for service in the Soudan has virtuillj suspended operations, others aro still ong'aged vHtfi his scheme They have been, and aro yet in COtttmuni cation with tho Victorian Government, bi View of the probable despatch of troops by ihat colony; but aa England is now involved In graver complications, which may issue in (• war threatening every part ot hor vast dominions, all tho fighting material the colonlos con' rdiso h likely to lie kept at home. It is therefore enggested i hat thoee heady and advonturoviß spiritsJ who thirst for gore and scent from afar tbo savou* of battle should form themselves into o corps for local defence purposes. Sir Julius Voffcl on Our Defences. In the course of lib eddrew ut Duncditi last night, Sir Julius Vogel ftade a ahort roferonco to th 6 subject of tho defendO of tho colony. For his own part he doubted ( wh'other thero would bo war, because be i took it that tho very readiness England showed for light was the best pccunty that sho would have no need to fight. He could tell them, fiowover, that the Government wero doing everything1 posfeiblo to pnt the country in a complote stafto o! delenco; but whatever the defences, ho believed a modern boat of war would bo needed to assist in guarding the coast, lie also men tioned that Government int6ndecl to appoint a distinguished officer to tho command of tbo Volunteer forces.

Fortifications at Wellington.

(l)Y TELUGBAi'iI—I'KES* ASSOCIATION.)'

Wkllinoton', this day,

Tho works of defence at tho various ports aro to bo commenced as soon as tbo plans aro completed, at which Major Cant loy is bueily engaged. A large number of men will bo sot to work at Wellington fortifications tomorrow. They will be engaged in making a road for material to bo sent up.

No furthor information haa been receive! from England respecting tho state of affairs between England and ltuesia.

(ISY TELEGRAM —OWN COfanESftXNDEKT.)

Wellington, this day,

In consequence of tho serious aspect of affairs and the probability of hostilities between England and Russia, His Excel lency tho Govornor has decided to abandon his intention of leaving for^Christchurch, in order that he may bo at band to advise and assist in tho event of startling news being received. Lady Jervoia and family will return to Wellington at an early dato.

Ohkistchuroh, this day.

A crowded and onthusiastic meeting was hold yesterday afternoon to considor the question of defence. A committee was appointed to consult with Government. It was proposed to form a reserve corps of veterans, each man to buy hia own outfit, and it was suggested that they should advise tho Governmont to obtain a couple of vessels as cruisers.

(BY TKLKCmArH— riIKSS ASSOCIATION.)

Wellington, this day,

There scorns to bo considerable anxiety throughout tho colony, consequent on tbo probability of a conflict between England and Russia, and anxiety also to know what stops are to be taken by the Government for tho protection of tho colony. Recog nising thiß feeling, I am endeavouring to obtain reliable information on the sub ject of defences, but experience great diliicultie?, owing to tho reticence of Ministers, who look upon their plans as of a strictly confidential nature. It may, how ever, be taken for a fact that Government aro doing all that can be done at such short notice, but it will take months to even get tbo preliminary parts of tho defence scheme accomplished. It is pointed out that previous administrations left the col ony in an entirely unprotected state, and tho work of placing the colony in a thcrough state of defenre (tho necessity of which met tho presentGovernmcnt almost immediately after their assumption of office) is a work which it should havo takon four years to accomplish. Thus the pre sont Government will have to bear tho brunt of public dissatisfaction for the neg ligence of thoir predecessors.

AN AUCKLANDER IN LUCK.

A tbleceas! has beon rocoivod in town stoting that an extraordinary discovery of silver haa been made in North Queoii3land. It iß.said that tho discovery is one of the largest known, and that it is now in the hands of Mr M. O'Connor, lato of Auckland, who is now on his way to Sydney to iloat it, Ample wood and water aro, it is said, on tho ground for inucliincry.

N.Z. STUD AND PEDIGREE STOCK COMPANY.

Annual Mooting.

The annual meeting of the above was hold this altornoon at the Company's oflioo, Shortland stroot, Mr Thomas Morrin, Chairmon of Directors prcßidiag. The annual report of Directors stated that tbo balance shoot shewed a loss of less dimensions than last year, the deficiencies bo (off chiefly caused by writing 25 por cent off the Shorthorn herd, interest on hunk overdraft, and mortgages. With a viow to successfully carrying on our oporations in the future, the directors have oatered into negotiations with tho principal creditors Jf the Company for a reduo tion, amounting in all to say £25,000. Those creditors nrc now considering the advisability of writing off that amount. They proposed reducing the flocks and herds, and selling Meadow Bank or either Cranston or Tamaki estate.' By giving effect to these pro posals the liability will be reduced from £191,(45 to under £70.000. The past year's operations in thoroughbred horses show sales of 23 animals, at an average of £185 6s. Tho sales of Herof ord cattle have averaged £25 per head, the experience of the puat Ijoar encouraging the directors to the 'belief that the demand (or this olass ot cattle is on the increase. Correspondence has been opened up with Queensland. New South Wales, and other largo centres with a view to placing the stock. The Shropshire Down flock have proved the wisdom of embracing this depart ment within the company's operations. At tho second Annual Sheep and Cattle Fair, held in January last, Shropshire rams wore leased at highly satisfactory prices for the season Tho balanoe-shcet was also read. Tho Chair man briefly moved the adoption of tho report, Mr Barstow seconded; carried. Mossrs E. Mitcholson, James But sell, and Major Walmsloy wore re-elected directors, and' Mr Milno auditor, and the meeting separated.

ALLEGED INSURANCE FRAUD.

At the Polios Court today, before Messrs C. La Roche and IT. G. Clayton, J.P.s, Oswald Herzog, on remand, again appeared in answer to a charge of obtaining the sum of £50 from James B. Graham on the 2nd inst. with intent to dofraud the Colonial Insurance Company.— Mr Cotter appeared for tho Company. Mr 8. Hesketh in defence asked that a portion of tho money found upon tho prisone*, viz, £95 Ga Id, bo handed to the accused for the purpose of his defence. The charge was for £50, which left a balance of £40, which might bo u»ed for prisoner's benefit. —Mr Cotter replied that if tho accused had made afraudu lont claim ho should be excluded from any benefit under the policy. He was insured for £150.—The Bench considered the matter, and nB tho cbargo was only CHi. the balance might be handed over to Mr S. Hesketh for Sriponer's benefit, and ordered accordingly.— Ir Cotter opened tho ciso. and etatod partiou lara of claim, Bhowing that prisoner and aMr Petors were in partnership as Cabinetmakers, &c, and that tho accused had effected a policy with the manager of the Colonial Insurance Society for CloO, viz., Btock, £50 ; tools, £75 ; fur niture and wearing apparel, £45: which were al leged to have been destroyed in the iire; showing further that things which wore repre ssnted as burned had Bince been found in tho possession o£ the prisoner. He would not go into a description of tho oxciting chaso after tno pnaoner, who was discovered at Nelaon. Aftor going very minutely into the Buspicious : circumstances of the Ore, he called witnoeses.— FredorickProobsteing, cabiDotinakcr.of Albert street, deposed to knowing the accused for two years. About the 25th January handed him over some f urnituro to polish up, and, If pos sit>lo, nnd n buyer. Baw tho accueod tho dny altar tho flro. Ilorzog said ho was sorry the goods wcra burnt, with the exception of two of the article!) which he m»H lie hud sent to Arthur's Mart. Ho found thorn there »ili other furniture upon whiuu lua acouscil hml obtained an advanco of£,i. Had not b' en paid for hia lost property.—Detective Twc hey de pored that he know the pconsed. On 'no 23itt nit, a tiro ocenrred at tho Lyceum Hall, Hobson street. Saw thnacnus fJ at nouu on the following day at the City Hotel. Herzog said his loss by the flro was £250, aod ho wasonlr covered to £150. He had saved nothing ai d regretted the less of hia home art! ti.il ary papers. These papers were nnt dertrojoa but wer" now in his (TwoheyV) ros nesslon. P/soner was arrested at Nrpier by Detective Gr.ico. W"ae.»s produced a wate" ---n ''of coat and a ia'r of rot. oH to have ""'en burnt at M 3 lodgings (Mrs Foy's in G at en Ro id. Witness ihen save an account of hm ex- \ a Mination of tho ruing of tho Lyceum Ha)1. Ca 1 Peters donosad that he w«s aa ny- | hoiaterer. nsidiis in K<nt street Surr'y , Hills. Had kuown tho acou»ed since October last Met him flrat at th 9 German Club, Hertzog was then occupying tho Ljc.um, and, by avransßtii! Nt he occupied part of tie haU on the 25, th of December, but was no', a partner, he i being an upholsterer and Hertjog a cabinet- , maker.—The for her hearing of this case was adjourned until Wednesday, tho Sth taut, I

ANGLO-COLONIAL.

New Zealand aup^gjj^BH Redmond's Violent AfltjS«H for Auckland. WUtm- ||| (froii our own coKMapo,; ' Mii WftUASi Peaboe, of EyUa^ U' Company, lias taken up l,i s '' Loadenball-strect es managing <v ~*!; thfi Jfavr Zealand Shipping Coa^ * passenger fetteSasia to; the colon ' W slack jnet now. rA« huapehu ;iJ Sttl saloon pasaongers, and tba font' '*ll on the 25th, has only one soijU^'X'H passenger booked. -•■""*# u|*cK Fargeon's new story, "ThetWa'W of Lyro," has achieved considflraMT*^ Though barely out three S^ pawed thro ?K h three edlCSfl translated rnto French S*&W Italian. ' ' berm 4B ( ty At a reoent meeting of thsf V*'» Society, Capt. Button readaplS^ geology of New Zealand P% $ Ifc | Mr Pritchard Morgan.wW,^^ j extracting gold from tb« oi^£g3ft» before, ha 3 Hailed for the colonieS* object m disposing hispatents tbi*^ Your late tfaart, Mrfcdmoid » |. tho present juncture to iecoram nn ™r?? ting against the Viewsy of IfeJaSjS other day ho abjured a^MfoiJt drive the murdering crew oIStSSM, from Ireland. ■-^SsPt Mr Courtonay, of Toranakk^^B nn*iofls that Lordßoeeberry : at one of his lectures, bnt hfk larSxPl plied that ho Wa» unable to tomW&i ing union* they berth bsppeffiftS* tbo border, as it was Ms rule noil^s* at soch Bemi-social affaire ooUttfS Earl J'esibrolce meditates m&& which will take him to Nmrcuf, ***> northern Australia. B <ti Gapt. Stuart, It N., of Cra!gaii'M; i advises the Highland crofoa* towSf to Now Zealand. , •., .--rm 1 Mr Loniji Nathan, of Aucklandini - elected a Teitttw of tho Colonial jnSSr ; A retire* naval officw, with ™Sg, largo family, goes Out M'iKlffifEj 1 Arawa. His namo is Hattfcoß jjilSSs i intends to reside in the AwiluSX* A Mr Brewster sailed,for Acjl^S the Crusader last week.- flu »Im-8£? settling in Auckland. Ho if bntunS* [ Brcweter, of the Auckland BiigHTC1 Testimony to Westport wire In tho course of a Bpee<&'atj|§|H Instituto, Bear Admiral ScotfeWn^S euid that during the Kaikania'jTSfi Home she used Westport coal onlv^fi was reached, and bad no difficnltdnaii f ing 13J knots an hour. 'At-Bio fo filled np with Welsh coal, and wiftu! 3 this she could not attain her {MiMS He argued that Westport is «affisn;: 1 best Welsh as steamers' fuol ' J The Frozen Produce 7m,, ' 9 At the annual meeting of Cas^ , Go., at which 7i per cent dirldeaSS?.] dared, Sir Chan. Gißord raid {Ifili I meat trade was being earteiajS?! extent that could not lsßtloii|^^ j s in the present propoiilomLmflHa b tho price of sheop in tho.colom, g would no longer pay eiport, ' ■■ * I t Tho Kaikoura'a coneignmeiit si! >ij I f butter was received on the marV^i^^ I , fairly well. It looked clean and ifafa I i turned out, but did not possfatißtA I o ness which newly-churnedbntefigji I prices obtained vary fromfisjtiijj)S* aa against 76s to 96a ttiwroWMl Tho frozen moat market, Ui36fflffi| so glutted aa wlwn I lost wrote, iSlli^ from heavy eupplioß. Ihiiifji^^l much better if large i&pn^nl y together instead d afatifnHfflH 0 another's throats. TbeTS^nUHH 1 chance of controlling m'.w.iij^Si t prices. As it k, some ffn^jjfijSßl t two of them) use all thq|r «mIHBW '■ rid of their consignin'ei)|raHUy|H o arrival, andatanypri'v:, EairiSiHll '- oxporters come to stii.Jpui?iiiu9jS9 t nobody can conceive. 'IMBMBB 'i lam sorry to Bay ths qiialißaßßß a the meat to hand aliow»-'t:fflßH[B - off. No lesa than'2oo o^jKbHW t Kaikoura wore absoi demned'; the balance nai fisdfpatwH o that it only realised sd, tbtUHBIM 0 paid for New Zealand luwe^ml t carcases per Coptic anj tlm'pAlliH 1- small and lean. OnlyilJiMHM 1 offered, but if the rot <f tacityfaH a bettor it will prove talWwiiß^B y munorative conaignmeßMJHßß t Latest quotations: K»ZiHll| ■f is quoted at 3s to ?s id ptniaiix/JJ| Q ditto lamb, 3s 4d to 5 ""1W i- to 3s 2d ; River Plata, aaWKW o English, 3s lOd to 48 "HMO

SHIPPING ENTERPRISING.

Establishment or BwdiirftaJiJfeH municatlon with TtMttiwty^B Thb cnti rpniing Jinn o' ' ■*- »!*■■ borough have risked effort to establish a rttnUHSjM Auckland and varionl Utei IPMr^B Sana, with whioh biMHHH only had communlolltHlyHH^H mailing vessols. In wieymß^n ncbeme, Messrs Donald 8 ' '•'*!■■ have purchased a ne^jIHMHM appears to be in evciy.JlifilHHß^H future sphere of labour. uWMiifiH Niccol, 702 tons gnus anllM||MHH Palmer Sbip^uildlDftCtinlVt^H originally intended for tha WSJ olonial trade. Sho was to JpjWHH^B ; the 27th hut. with betneen|Uta|HH ; and general cargo for thiS.MBMU^M ;to arrive here early ta-mOg^HHWj her coaL Hero she will |"J9HH^H probably leave for T&mtljjgaß^B it is expooted that thtMJg^B occupy somewhat under L-JjPßij^B Janet Niccol was and cargo boat. She' am ""WyS^^W amidships, intended ™,~Jo!flfflM atnte cabins are ■« ull T^nJ"sJJ|S^B accommodation forminl w fiSSii^B gera. Cargo-carrying Is one P"»^ll aH of the steamer, nnditis«4la,Msf|^H nway 953 tons with e»*'j"w,JM hatches aro of great ,«« *ISSH and let out heavy liflu ' 'JyjJ sflflj donkey bc''l i n if-wWUf^^JaBHI for cargo haulage. J A W D'., kSiI(«K and Bond and Mo'^tefiSSHfl Bteoringeear form part«|?.:SillWß ment, The steerage 'g^MwggsMMl flying bridge from w"%*ffl!3i»iK luanded. There ia a toffglmaM discharge 100 tons of J TSJffifflflM| The steamer is B"pplioiI;«MWMB^B patent nippers, as WWSSffIIW thereisanewandinmaoiHQ^H way out. and gave no .^flfflß vessel at 10 knots spew fftMSiffl^H from London to McVi^tW'^|JK| for tho distance travenWiJffißßji^M markablo; the passage tftHBH ing one, and this led to ' : H^l bunkers. Exolusive ol imsjßgg^m complished In 6T im «« ffiS'PJMjS Port Philip. ? h9iSiSHB Btemmoa, and ia negro, Jg^ g^

SPORTING NEWS.

There has beep a ii(|g9| HH A.R.C. Autumn MeiH MM couple of days. «*£ hh&BB 4tol is taken-abgrt toI * r**£m quoise, BL?beller, AndJiiUH engagements a'.^iSfflH Meeting. She wf while being shipped 0D _, W Scrutineer arrived!»l^^H TVlanukau to-day toMji bi|£; B sm£s-s yT'ldtfm Speculation, •; J J VicK^-^flK Great Autumn B«M'' C*?^ 1^

Siyffis^^tlß^

THE AUCKLAND EV&iiJNS Si An TUESDAY, MARCH 31C



TjiIRST \ UTUMN QHOAV OF T\RAPERV •;i) MtLNE AND CHOYGE ' Having now received their- NEW GOODS for ...'. tha Autumn, will make a SPECIAL SHOW at the same m- THIS DAY (TUESDAY), -ffi» : When a magnificent display will be seen of All the NovolUob to be had in the Home - .. Markets. SPECIALTIES IN EVERY DEPART MENT. Larger Assortment than usual of TBIMMBD BONNETS AND HATS. ONG SILK MANTLES (Sfkcial Value), : COSTUMES (SraciAL Valub), .; JBRPKYS (Plain and Fancy), HOSHSBY AND GLOVES (Special Valch) Very Kxtenolvo Assortment of *■'' . DRKSB GOODS. N3.—itllne and Choyco being detarulned not to bo undersold by anyone in the trade, hare marked, and will contiuuo to mo»k, their Goods at a lower rate lhan previously. MILNE AND GHOYCE, AUCKLANP. MUTUAL LIFE ASSOCIATION OF AUSTBALASIA. - Established 1869, and Incorporated by Ant of Parliament. NOT ICJS Is hereby given that MR William thomas james bell. Secretary of the Auckland Branch, and ' ■'■■ MB GEORGE GILL, . , Secretary of the Chriatehuroh Branoh, have bees empowered to register assignments, &a, in New Zealand, in accordance with the provisions of "The Life Assurance Policies Act, 188*." By order of the Bgard. J. C. EBMINGTON, General Manager and Secretary. Principal Office. SySney, March 10, ISM.



TOASTER HOLIDAYS. A GENTLE HINT To thoeo who want a Suit of Clothes. Don't buy slops, but try one ot Woollanui's celebrated 50s Suits, made to measure, IN 6 HOURS. Perfect fit guaranteed. SYDHNHAM HOUSE, foot of Grey-street THB NEW GOODS THK NEW QOODB THE NEW GOODS THB NEW GOODS Are now opened out FOR THK WINTER FOX THE WINTER FOB THE WINTER FOR THE WINTER. The Stock Is the largest and beßt selected in the oily, and to MBKT THE TIMES MKK'J' THE TIMES trnr MKKT THK TIMES THE MEET THE TIMES NEW Several lines in every De partment are marked at ZEALAND Prices TI nTRtVC SPECIALLY CHEAP LL.OI Illflfe SPECIALLY CHKAP ...-.„„ SPECIALLY CHKAP FACTORY, SPECIALLY CHKAP. 158 & 160, Queen-street. _ The Juvenile Department hirt received close attention, and parents will find DURABILITY AND ECONOMY DURABniITY AND ECONOMY DURABILITY AND ECONOMY DURABILITY AND ECONOMY Combined is the leading feature. In Boys' Fancy Suits several new and choice styles are now being shown. NEW 1885— xttinter goods.—lßßs william r. bridgman IS NOW SHOWING A Splendid Assortment of Choice Dress Goods New All-wool French Kptogles, all shades New All-wool Kudos Cashmeres, all shades New All-wool Radame Cloth's/all Bhados New Silk Spot Foule Cloths, all shades New All-wool Coloured Biarritz Cloths, all ■hades Now All-wool Homespuns; all shades Now French jtferinoff, Cashmeres, all shades New Kutameno Barges. Poplins New Figured Dress Goods, all marked at moot reasonable prices Feather Trimmings, Black and Coloured Now Stock Blankets, splendld'value—from 5s 6d pair. New Pattern Cretonnes New Lot of Choice Laces, In Black, White, and Coloured Beautiful Assortment of New FrWlngs, Rib bons, &o. 10 Men's Black Paget Coats at 21a, worth 35a New Fur Capes from 7s 6d New Umbrellas from Is to 20s Ladies'. Maids', and Girls' New Ulsters In variety Men's Macintoshes, a few slightly damaged half-price Several Job Lines at low prices to clear. Patterns Free by Post. JUNCTION DRAPERY WAREHOUSE, 988, UPPER QUEEN-STREET. TO VISBTORS TO WAIOTOA HOT ' SPRINGS. Visitors to Uie above Springs will flnd every arrangement for their convenience and pleasure. The above Springs are famed for the Cure of Bye Diseases. Bee testimonials In Stab. F. STRANGE, Proprietor.