COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &c, To-night. Opera House—"Tno Two Orphans," 8. Chamber of Commerco— Spocial genoral meet ing. 8. Ferestora' Hall-Lecturo by Mr Chas. Bright, " Cfrowlh of Rationalism," 8. Grafton Road Woßloyan Churdh-Consecra tion Sorvice, 7.30. Lome-street Hall-Cavolry Troop, 7.30. Dovonrort Hall—L»wn To.nis Club Enter tainij'...-lit, 8 p IM.

Auction Sales To-morrow.

il. O Steven—Furniture, &c, 11. ;OK!;ri?l I>swh - Si'vcr and Klcctco-platcd ffilood?, li. iMV lii ton-Kidney Potatoo?, Apples, &o.,Tfc. Alfred Buokland—Stock, Retnuera.'l. RichardEOn and Jack ion-Farm, IS. .J. H. Hamer-Itousehold Furnttare. &c. Vuilo«nd Bra<]ley-Ctotbing, 11 a m.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

fibula irtil cloao as under :- Tiira Day. JTjr Triamea, per Enterprise at 5.30 p.m. SPKUKSDAX, '23rd inst. Kar Walwara. To Kuj>a. nnd Wnrkworth, &c, yor Rofm Casoy. Rt 10 a-ni. For TfcAmoß. per Horoniahana. at 10 a.m. For Glsborno, Napier, unil Southern ports, par Mnnapniri, Mil n.io. For money ordew, rotfUtercd letters nnd newspapere, JO a,m. Late lcttors till 11.20 a.m. Vor Waitara and Southern ports, per Hauraki, at 3.15 p.m. For Tauranga, Hotortic, and Opotiki, per WoUldgton, Btsp.m. Fr'l»av. 2Uh mat. J7or Cowes and Corouißnclol, per Corouiandol, For VVhKnga'rol Hearts, Paras, Walpu, Whan- Karei. Katuo. and Mangnpai, per Glentlc or 'Wsttakl at 5 p.m. Saturday, 21th inst, ffor Port Fitzroy, Tryphcns, and Okupu, per Argtlo, at 7 a.m. Ttiuksdav. EOth mat. For London, via Rio do Janeiro and Plymouth <frow Wellington, par Kimutaki on August 21. per Rolomahana, at 11 am. Matl will bo due at Plymouth about September 13. (Signed) BOBT. KAYK, Acting Chief Postmaster, Chief Post-office. Auckland.

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE

HIGH WATER.

Aock!.«nd - tomorrow mon. ing, 3.50; to-mor low afternoon 4.19. Mindk>u Ji«.»uß-To morrow morning, fi 30; tc-uiorrovr evening, fj.SU. Kah-aiia Mkads—To-morrow morning, 7.30; to-morrow ovenijig, 7.59.

HUNSBT.—This ovoning-5.2. BUNRlse.—To-morrow mornkiij—J.B. Mcwn'b Age.—Full Moon, 27tb, 2.2 p.m,

ARRIVALS.

LAST EVENING. Fleotwing, scb., McDonald, from Wliangaroa TO-DAY, WclUngton, s.s.. Stcuhcnson, from Tauranga

DEPARTURES.

TO DAY.

Jeasio, schyoner, Ituxton, for Mercury Bay

t.ast KvimiNO. Suva. 0.b.. Hutchluson. for the Soulli MAnapouri, s.s., Lo?an, for Uinsoll

Wiiitaki, v.3., Crawford, for AV'hanKarci Ulonelg, s.s., Johnsou, for Whdngarei

STEAMERS TO ARRIVE.

Coromandcl. from Coromandcl.to-niorrow.o p.m. Rotomahana, from Thamos. 10-day, 8 p.m. Enterprise, from Thamos, to-morrow, 9 p.m. Manapouri. fro-n Russell, to-morrow, early Waitaki, from Whangarei, to-morrow, early Argylo, from Morcnry Bay, to-morrow, early Janet Niccol, from South Sea Islands, July 31. City of Sydney, from Sun Francisco. July 2B KKikoura, tromJPlymouth, August 18

[For projected departures eeo shipping ad' vertiaenieots and mall notice?.]

CK'TWAnus Coastwise.—Attlanta, lor Whan- Ritroa, with bal a^t.

The s.s. W'areutea will leave for Wcstport about 6 p.m. Her cargo is confined to 1 sacke oystoto.

A largo quantity of oranges, pineapples', and onions have been waihed ushore on the Waipn lioaob.

Tho bnrqun Iniaco?, which waa recently here, left Newcastle for Sourabaya on the !Hh inßt.

The brij?ant:ne Linda Wober left Brisbanefoi thia port on tho 11th inßt.

The brigantino Parnoliariived at Mtlbourß! from Kaipara on July 11.

A schooner, coastwise, probably the Mariner, from Russell, was signalled late this afternoon.

The p.s Annio MilbaDk remains under water alongside of the Railway Wharf. Messrs Biga low and Sons have repaired several leaks, and expect to float tho vosßel with the next high tide.

Tha annual report of the Buez Canal shows that the Australian traffic last year amounted to 553,553 tons, against 453,735 in the previous year.

The brigantlne Francisco Feliz arrived at Sydney on July 14, after a heavy-weather pas sago from Lyltoiron, during which her decks were constantly Hooded, and her jibboom car ried away.

The barques Notero nnd Claribel exchanged berths atthe Railway Wharf tMamorning. The former is loaeling coal, of which Bho U to take 150 tons aa ballast, prior to lea* ing for Lyttelton.

The s.a. Wellington arrived from Tauranga at 130 a ni. to-d »y. Pa3aengor3 .-—Messrs O'Brien, Mooro, Boot, KHiny, Fruser, Noper, O'Donald, anil MiS3 Atkinson.

The shir Duchnss of Anrrle, Captiin Hea3, ■which left London on May 33. brings tbe follow ing passengers tnc Auckland :—Saconrt <-abin: —MrandMrd vVilsieni Pringlc.Mes<rsß BrowD, John Woodman, h\ T. jMason. Third cabin: Mr and Mrs Wintf and family, Mr and Mrs Bed lor«l, Blrs Stevens end family, Mrs H. Austin and child, Mrs lUrri'i and family, Mr and Mrs Brutx and child, Messrs "W. Heppel. Wiliiam Bnclre, H. J. Browur, Nath, Turner, J. H» Hester.

WRECK AT THURSDAY ISLAND.

|BX TELEGRAPH.—PHESB ASSOCIATION.) Mkleoorne, July 21. Telegrams received to-day report that the ship John Do Costa (1.755 tons), Captain Gaks, which left thi3 port on June 21 for Calcutta, with a cargo of horses for the Indian market, has been totally wrecked at Thursday Island, and 110 horaea wera lost. Tho crew of the vessel W«Sro saved..

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Hklunsvillk. this day.—Arrived, atKaipara BrigantlneOceola and brig Albert the Wood.

Gkbymobth, this day.—Arrived: Ohan, from Auckland, at midnight.

Hokianoa, this day.—Sailed: Rowena, for Onohunga, 1.30 a.m. Whangakki, this day.—Arrived, from Auck land: Waitaki, 0.15 a.m.; Glenclg, 6AS a.m.

COMMERCIAL

Kvknino Stab Office, this day. Mb Randkhson held a ealo by nuotion at Mer cantile Chatnbero yesterday, wfien 231 acre*. Takapuna, were sold by order ot the Hogistrar of tb« Supreme Court, for £1 the lot. Mr iSrodlo being tho pnrchascr. The cottages, Hargreavcs stivoc. College Koad. were withdrawn at £110. Messrs li. Tonks and Co. held a Irult sale today, nt.d disposed of 120 casos of llobart apples, at gool prices. French Crabs averaged 83 'M per case. Mr K. Loydon . Bold to-day a number of jcjncertinfln. ranging from 20s to UOs. Messrs Vaile and Bradley sold a variety of seta x>t China ana glassware, aoino of them ■ exceed ingly handsome, at very reasonable prices.

Births.

IDA VIS.—On July 11, at Union-street, Mrs K. baVia of twin daughters.

Marriages.

WALKKR-WRATT.-On July 13. by Kov. R. Bavin, at tho Graf ton Road Wesloj aa Church, John T. Walker. Only son <i W. H. Walkor, Newmarket.to Julia A. Wratt, oldest daughter of John. Wratt, Mount Eden.—Waikato and Southern papers please cop;.

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

WEDNESDAY, JULY 22. 1885.

For the wrong that needs resistance, For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do.

The secret is out. Sir Julius Vogel l;as made known to the House what the price of the thick-and-thin Canterbury support really is, and the flgure3 are simply astounding. The colony is asked to make itself responsible to the tune of 2 1 per cent, per annum on tho estimated cost of constructing the East and West Coast railway for the long period of twenty years. The cost is reckoned at ; and the yearly amount to be paid out of the pockets of the taxpayers is therefore 7,00b. In twenty years, the sum paid will reach the respectable total of ;£i,940,000 ; or, including simple in terest reckoned at 4 per cent, per annum, 17,600. And there will be nothing to represent it except a rail way and huge land monopoly in the bands of an English Syndicate. The country on Friday ne.it is to be asked to make itself responsible for this immense sum of money, and all for what purpose? To produce benefits and advantages in which the whole colony will share? In that case, the proposal might be looked at with some degree of patience; but the rub is that only certain interested parties are to be enriched, and that at the expense of the rest of the community. The proposed railway runs through some of the most difficultcountry in the whole colony, and when complete it cannot possibly pay. The concessions already made to the Syndicate who are trying to arrange the construction of the railway are far too large. But the gift of lands on each side of the line to the value of one-half the estimated cost of construc tion, that is to say, nearly two million pounds, does not satisfy the hungry Syndicate, and, like the horseleach's daughters, they still cry, " Give, give !' The Government are prepared to re spond to the invitation,and impudently propose to saddle the country with the enormous annual subsidy of ,£97,000 for two decades. A more atrocious job was never propounded. The pro posed off-set of local taxation and sus pension of grants to roads, the Treasurer knows full well, is an arrant sham. The West Coast members, who last year squeezed the big harbour loans out of Parliament, know too well how to combine for local advantage to let this bar operate against thttn. This business settled, they would very soon find means to milk the Treasury for further works. The Colonial Treasurer has eclipsed himself. He has shown to what lengths he is prepared to go in order to continue to enjoy the emolu ments of office. For this is precisely what the whole business amounts to. The Government want votes on which they can rely in any emergency, acid to secure those votes they adopt the ex treinest measures, and consent to the most nefarious expedients. To pur chase present personal benefit, they would render the constituencies liable to extra taxation for 20 long years to come. They hope to secure the Auckland vote as well by putting the San Fran cisco mail contract and the Went Coast railway proposals down for settlement on the same day. IF the Auckland members oppose the Government scheme, then the Canterbury members will in revenge throw over the San Fraticisco mail service. There is some apparent show of cleverness in this dodge, but the course of our represen tatives does not admit of hesitation. Their duty to the colony in a matter of this magnitude must outweigh all local considerations. At all hazards they must oppose the disgraceful job which Sir Julius Vogel fathers, and let the mail service take its chance. Tbc latter is undoubtedly of great import ance to us at this end of the colony, but compared with what is at stake in the other proposal, it is a small affair. If the contract with the Pacific Steam ship Company is not now extended, there is always the chance that it will be at some future time; but once the colony is bound down to find nearly a hundred thousand pounds a year for twenty years, no escape is possible. The step cannot be retraced, and we shall be kept to our bad bargain. This s not the time for divided counsels. The North Island members should vote as one man to defeat this barefaced job, and condemn the Ministry which is reckless enough to propose it.

City Council Retrenchment

The meeting of tho Council last night to consider its financial position and to take measures to sat its accounts, straight ended in a three hours' purpoßeless talk, Councillor Waymouth. hit the nail on the head when he declared that tho Councillors wero wandering like sheep without a shep burd. Conflicting statements Lave been produced, which, if not deliberately framed with the objent of throwing dust in the eyes of the Council, have exhibited singular carelessness in compilation, for they fell to pieces the moment they wore' subjected to scrutiny. Councillor Upton made an in effectual endeavour to bring back members to a consideration of the stern logic of fact, by pointing oat that whereas the Corpora.

tion overdraft on tho 31st of March was £26,000, it had now risen to £30,740 ; but \ tho appeal was ineffectual. Councillors complained of the want of clear informa tion. We should think this clear enough , for tho comprehension of tho meanest j capacity. Tho excuse that tho money lias boon well spent, if it wero tnio, would bo nothing to tho pur pose. Tho chances aro, howover, that in the wild squandering of' loans and general rovonue, tho money has not beon so woll laid out as if tho Council hadprocooded cautiously, and had cut its coat according to its cloth. Well-spent, 'or 'badly-spent, it has done a iriost improper thing in spending two years' incomo in ono y'^ar, and if such gross mismanagement and want of control is tolerated, tho city will, as was forcibly pointed out by Cr. Upton, vory soon have to face tho demand for an additional shilling in the pound tuxation. The two meetings already hold havo raorely resulted in an extraordinary exhibition of incapacity to muko a plain statement of estimated incomo and expendi ture, showing how the present rate of ox penditure is to be controlled, so that tho Cor poration will not lind itself sunk still deeper in tho financial mire at tho closo of tho cur rent year. The resolution carried, on tho motion of Councillor ICidd, for tho gradual reduction of tho day labour instead of sud donly discharging lifty mon in tho depth of winter, when thoy aro moat wanted for tho roads, and when other employment is dilli cult to got, is a judicious ono, so far as it coca—panic moaeuros are rarely wisp ones — but this rosolution advances tho problem with which tho Council has to deal no fur ther on tho road to settlement, and unless an unexpected chango comes over tho spirit of tho deliberations at tho civic board, matters will apparently bo allowed to drift along as beforo until a now loan and additional taxation become inevitable. To force tho ratopayors into that position is [a clear violation of tho Municipal Cor poration Act,which distinctly requires that they shall be directly consulted in any proposal for increasing tho burdens of tho city ; and it is an equally flagrant broach of tho spirit of the existing law, which is intended to limit the borrowing powors of the Municipality,

Tho figures submitted to tho Chamber of Commorco today, showing the relative cost and advantages of the San Francisco and direct services, aro moßt conclusively in favour of tho Pacific route. The total cost of tho San Francisco service last year was only £3,330, and this year, under the Governmont proposals, tho lino \vould be more than self-support ing. The time of delivery by tho San Francisco route was only 3S days, by tho direct servico, 44 days. And whilo the San Francisco service is capable of reduc tion by at least five days, thoro can be no saving on tho direct line. Tho opposition to the San Francisco service, under theso circumstances, proves to what lengths pro vincial jealously will carry tho merchants 0! Wellington in their hostility towards Auck land.

Cambrias aro in demand at 12s Gd ; Ivan hoes, 7s Od ; Crown buyers, 4s b'd ; Scott, Is Od. Thero is also an inquiry for shares in several 6f tho mining leases at Karanga hake. Golden Crowns aro firm at 5s (id, and Doep Lovol Cross aro improving in "prospects. Gas shares are in demand at £10 17s Od ; few sellers, £11. Tim Lor, in surance, and loan shares shady at quoted rates. National Banks aro wanted at 50a.

A tolegram received from Waipu states that a large quantity of oranges, piuo apple?, and onions have been washed ashore on tho Waipu beach No mention U mado of any sign of wreckage, so that tho fruit is probably tho deck cargo of somo vessel from tho islands with cargo for this port.

Tho following tondcrs were opened to-day at Messrs Hammond and Sons' otKeo for tho erection and completion of a residoneo,com pritingeixroomsaiultower: C W..Johnson, £338 12s : A. Hanson, £358 ; W. G, Smith, £300; Jamison and Tricker, £40.3 : O. E. Page, £415 ; J. Reynolds, £4:27 ; Wrigloy and llandcock, £427 ; John Thompson, £428 ; Davis and Evans, £128 : A. Williams, £445; Faulkner and Co., £419 Ms ]0d ; J. McConniskie, £500.

Jlr Boynton and Mrs llutehinpon liavo already collected upwards of £170 for tho proposed fomnlo refuge, and npprohond 119 difficulty in increasing the amount to £,'(00. This will ensure 11 grant of £300 from Government

Tho Rev, T. W, Dunn, of I'ukokoho, has intimated to his congregation his intention to res-inn his olmrgo at the end of tho yew. Tho district is smlliciontly largo for two ministers to work it, thero being no le?s than stvon preaching etationsin it, exclusive of Mercer, which if situated within tho territory comprehended in tho ministerial sphere assigned to tho I'ukckoho Prosby terian minister.

At tho meeting of tho Nonriuarkot Borough Council lust ovoning, it was re solved, on tho motion of tho Mayor, that stops be takon to rniso a loan of t'b',ooo for tho purpose of working a drainage and water scheme. In reply to a question from Cr. Koesing as to what security they were prepared to offer, His Worship stilted that if the property in tho borough were pro perly valued, tho annual ratos would amount to about £SOO, and that could bo offered as a guarantco of paymont. Ho pointed out that thcro were tracts of land in tho contro of the borough which were only valued at grazing rates, and this ho con sidered, decidedly wrong. Ho did not hesitate to say that tho situation of his own property might bo fairly doubled, and the same might bo said of all tho Councillor?. In addition to this increase, in tho ovont of tho Local Bodies Act passing this session, they would bo entitled to £680 as their share of tho subsidy ; and if they also be came endowed with tho present Newmarket reserve, tho income of tho Council would be nearly £'2,0(10 per annum.

A mealing of young men was hold last evening at Robson's Rooms for the purpose of forming a Social Union. About thirty wore present. Mr W. Davoy was voted to the chair. A committee was formed to find tho most suitable hall, draw up rules, and report next meeting, which is to bo hold noxt Tuesday. After passing a vote of thanks to tho chairman, tho meeting tor minated.

Richard Buchanan waa charged at Ota huhu yesterday with breaking into tho Otahuhu Kailwuy Station, and was com mitted for trial. Evidence Was given by eight witnesses.

The anniversary ooiree in connection with tho Primitive Methodist Church was held last evening, ahd well attonded. An ex cellent tea alid dainties were neatly cut forth by tbo ladies, and tho tables, adorned with flowers, presented an attractive appcaranco. Mr Hall, of Wellington, prosided at tho meeting. The seventh annual report waa read by tho Secretary, and showed steady progress, although thoro was still a debt of £300 to be liquidated. Tho little church und allotmont cost £577 4s2d,of which £277 ■Is 2d had boon paid off. Class-rooms had recently been erected ut a cost of £79 5a Od, £73 of which had beon paid. The schoolroom ivas used by the Board of Education at a yeurly rental of £30. Tho Treasurer's report showed income for the year £133 18s ; expenditure, £140 16' n Sd : leaving a debit balance of £b' 18s Bd. Tho Sabbath-school was increasing undor tho management of Mr Turley. Tho rop»rts woro unanimously adopted. In struclivo addresses woro dolivorod by tho Chairman, by llov. C. Worboys on " Tho Latont Power of Christianity," the Rev. Boothroyd on " Christianity," and tho Key. A. T. Smith on "The Duty of Trying." During tho evening the choir rendered sovoial selections of music under Mr Turloy, Mr William Carlaw presiding at the har monium. Tho mooting closed with tho Benediction, pronounced by tho Roy. A. T. Smith.

Tho business of tho Police Court this morning, before Messrs Yon der Heyde and McMillan (Justices), was limited to two cases, viz., James Irwin, 53 and costs, drunkenness ; and James Hay, wandering; horso. In tho lattor cfiso thorc was no appoaraneo.defomlnnt having given a wrong ddress.

Thoro is now on view in Mr Josiah Martin's studio a large portrait of Captain W. Farquhar, tho worthy skipper of tho Clansman, which has boon osocutcd in oils by a Taurangu urtist,

At tho V.M.C.A. Rooms last ovening, Pr Lawry gave ono of his interesting "Medical Talks." There was a largo at tendance. In the course of an instructive lecture Dr Lawry treated of the organs of sensation, touch, smell, sight, and hearing, and also gave a description of the brain, its composition and functions. At tho close of the lecture, a largo number of young men examined diagrams of tho human brain oud skull, and asked many questions, which were answered. On the motion of Mr Brackenrig, a hearty vote of thanks was passed by acclamation to the locturor. It was announced a lecturo would bo given on Tuesday nightby the Rev. J. S. Hill on "Toa, the National Beverage," being one of a series of " Homely Talka on Homely Things."

The first social in connection with Miss Donovan's dancing class will take place in the Foresters' Hall, Karangahapo Road, to morrow evening, commencing at 8 o'clock sharp. It will be seen by advcrtiaoment olsowhere, that Miss Donovan's second term will commence on the 30th inst.

BTho amount of accepted tciulo for Hoff mann and Sons'.s new buildings was £5,914, and not i' 5,492, as previously stated.

Many residents of Devoii port having ox pressed a desire for the. establishment of a bonelit society in the marine suburb, Mr J. 11. D. BaUor has convened a meeting oi all wishing to join the Ancient Order of Foresters in tho district to be held at the oilino of tho Dovonport Ferry Company at S p.m. to morrow.

Arrangements iro being niadu for a fruit soiree to bo held in connection with St. L'etei'V) Presbyterian Church next Wednes day to wolcomo Key. It. Sommerville to tho charge

Captains and secretaries of football clubs should boar in mind that tho names of teams intended for insortion in our Friday's iesuo must be sent in to this oflico by to morrow afternoon.

Tho monthly ro union at Waite's Hall was hold last evening, and passed off ploasantly. Thorn woro about 30 eouplos present, The dance music was supplied by Mr Reed, and Mr Moore ofliciatod as M.C. The dances wore, intorapcrsod with sovoral well-rendered songs.

A capital paper was read last evolving beforo tlio members of tho St. David's Mutual Improvement Socioty, by Mr John Earl, on "Our Musicians and Musical Societies." Mr Earlo, who lias a thorough knowledgo of music, pointed out numorous defects in tho systems of teaching, and promised in anothor papor to show how theso dofects may bo romodied. Mr McPhorson occupiod the chair.

Tho Ponsonby Rifles will givo a grand concert to-morrow evening in tho Ponsonby Hall, in aid of the Company's funds. The Artillery Band will bo in attendance and all Volunteers will be in uniform, Dancing at 8 o'clock.

The "Two Orphans" was repeated last evening at the Opera House to a good audi ence. Being the second night, the piece naturally went more smoothly, and was therefore more enjoyable. Tho prompter's voice,which could be distinctly heard on the previous evening, was scarcely discernible last night. That this drama pleases tho audience was testified by their marked at tention and renewed applause. Those who wisb to behold this tine drama should attend early, as it is not the intention of the Com pany to produce it many times.

The Kaukapakapa settlers aro proparing a petition for presentation to tho Houee on Henry Goorgo's principlo of the nationalisa tion of land. It prays that no moro land may be sold.

The Provincial Hospital librarian thank fully acknowledges tho receipt of parcels of journals from Mrs C. Atwel! Harris, Mr B, I?a<ic?, ami Mr Laing; nlfo ;>0 books from tho Auckland Scripture (lift Associa tion.

The mooting of tho soils of old colonists and schoolmates of tho lato Mr John Sheehan will bo held on Friday evening next at Robson's Dining Rooms for tho purposo of considering tho "Sheohan memorial.'

Tho Salvation Army Brigade Captain's report of tho Scotia Placo Homo for tho week onding Friday, July 17th, is as follows: Meals given, 134 ; bed*, 4li ; persons ad mitted, 10 ; discharged, S. Articles re ceived : Mossrs (iarrott, Boyde, Hulmo, Walker, and Hollaby, meat; Mrs Howie, Messrs Waddell, Parsons, and Kobley, bread ; A Fritnd, somo fish ; A Friend, two parcels of clothing. Requisites : Firo wood and grocsries. Tho Homo is quiet, but there aro many applications for ad mission, and not ;utliciont accommodation, (Signed) R. Littlk, Captain.

Tho musical and literary ciitortainmont in aid of tho Arch Hill Wosloyan Sunday school Library will bo ropoatoii in tho School-room, RusselNstroet, tomorrow evening, at 7.H0.

A Sunday-school Teachers' Conforonco will bo hold to-morrow ovening nt St. Paul's Church, opening nt 7 o'clock with a short porvico. The conference will bo commenced at the close of tho service, at which tho Bishop will preside. Tho procoedincs will bo specially interesting to teachers. Mr Edward Hammond will read his paper on " Sunday-school Classification ;" and, if timo permits, tho Rev. Percy Smallliold will road a paper.

There was a largo attendance nt tho Theutro Royal last evening, on tho occasion of the concert given by t!\o Wnitomata Minstrels for the benefit ol Mr lioorgo Morris. The performance wai iiudor tho patronage of tho Ponsonbv Navals and lliilos,Firo Brigade,ind Artillery Baud. Tlio proL'rammo was anexcstlontono, tho first part comprising songs by Messrs \V, Ed Hards, Jennings, A. Hartley, W. Kilby, 11. Hur gravo, C. Whito, W. (icorgo, and Leod ham. Mr R. \V. Sccats acted as inter locutor for the chair pertjrmanco, and thero wero four corner men. This part of tho performance concluded with grand tableaux emblematic of tho Waitemata Minstrels, spocially designed by Mr Theo. l v 'uereo. In tho second part, the Riloy Brothers performed a double acrobatic song and dance and silver shoo danco, whilo Fonfts wero contributed by Mossrs Loed ham, R. W. Scoats, Havgravo, Edwards, and Kirby. A farco concluded tho enter tainmont.

Proceedings are about to be takon by tho police again6t Thomas Calvert and a man named Dull' for colling tho "Rationalist" newspaper and Freethought books on Sunday evening, in Wellesloystrect.

WELLINGTON V. OTAGO FOOT BALL MATCH.

.(BY TELEGRAPH PKEBS ASSOCIATION.)

DUNEUIS, this day. Mayor Slopllar refused to proclaim a half - holiday because football is a brutal game. Nevertheless, it is pretty gonerally observed. Tho weather is simply glorious Tho gamo commences at 3. Thero will b« two forty-five minutos shells. Over 5,000 aro presont. Broeo is umpire for Otago, and Jnmes for Welling ton, Wyncks acting as rofercOi

THE SALVATION ARMY

tiiot In Christchlirch,

(1!V TELKiaiAi'll. — I'KESS AK.SOCJATIO.V,)

Chkimtchuhch, this day, DuiilN'U the Salvation Army procession, headed by Marshal Booth, last night, a man named Dale, on horsoback, ondeavourcd to break through tho ranks. A disturbance ensued, and Dalo was arrested by Constable Cullon, who waa hooted and sevorely assaulted by a number of larrikins. Dalo was lodged in gaol, and two jingleaders in tho assault on tho conetablo wero arrested.

GAS PRESSURE EXPERIMENTS

Is response to an invitation issuod by Mr Atkinson, about twonty persons, amongst whom wore sovoral ladies, assembled at (ho Gas Works this afternoon for tho purpose of witnessing a series of experiments devised for the purpose of showing how tho consumption of gas might bo regulated and reduced. The tests were conducted with the aid of the regulator cold by tho Company and another regulator for which a local firm are tho agents. The Company's regulator was ehown to be much moro effective than tho other. Tests wero also given to show tho value of a regulator combined with the burner which is supplied for tho uso of small con sumorp. The»e burners vary in price from Is Od to ss. Mr Atkinson gavo thoso present a number of useful hints repect ing tho regulation of tho pressuro with out tho patent regulator. It could, ho said, be regulated cither at tho meter or the burner, but tho latter was tho moro preferable method. Somo valu able information as to tho relnlivo light ng powers cf largo and small burners was also given.

CABLEGRAMS

(UEOXKU'h TELEGRAMS

(Received July 22.—1,45 p.m.) Frozen Moat

Lomkon, July 2^.— Tho first portion of tho cargo of froaou mutton was placod upon Smithlield market to-day. The moat was in good condition, and realised an average prico of s.}d por lb.

[HPKUIAIi TO l'BliSS ASSOCIATION.]

Tho Federation Bill,

London. July 20. — The Federation En abling Bill will be considered in committee on Thursday next. Tho concessions made by Victoria toward tho bill will, itisstatcd, facilitate its passing. Tho Labour Trnffio Atrocities. Mr J. F. Garrick, Agont ■ Goneral for Quoonsland, has writton to the "Times" clonyiug that his (Jovormnont woro to blame for tho iubour trallie atrocities. Reported Pi-osont of a.Gunboat. Lord Goorgc Hamilton, First Lord of tho Admiralty, donies tho accuracy of tho re port that tho Ciovcrumont'had decided to present H.M.B. Beacon to ono of the Aus tralian colonies. Tho roport, probably obtained currency from tho fact that tho Government of Now South Wales were negotiating with (he Admiralty for obtain ing a naval training ship. , .

TUo Failure of tlio Munstcr Bantt.

The panic that was causod in Ireland by tho suspension of tho Munstor Bank is now on tho wane. Tho Government will not assist tho bank in any way.

800 DEATHS FROM CHOLERA

[IIEUTKK'S TiaiiUlUM.]

Madrid, July 20.

The cholora opidomic is increasing in viru lence, and the deaths are again becoming nuinorous. 1,900 cases woro reported to tho sanitary authorities yesterday, of which 800 ended fatally.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

'Frisco MaH Sorvico.

Asi'ECIAL meeting of tho Chambor of Com merco, tor tho purpose of enforcing upon tho Government the importanco of con tinuing the 'Frisco mail service, was hold at threo o'clock this afternoon. Mr Craves Aicken (President) occupied the chair, and thero wan a large attendance of lnemoore.

Tho Chairman, in opening tho meeting, said that ho was pleased at the large attend ance, which ho took to show that the com mercial community wore fully awako when an injustice was threatened. Tho Commit too of tho Chamber had boon informod of an organised opposition to tho San Francisco sorvico, and had mot to-day to consider the whole question, not from the narrow pro vincial point of view which seemed to actuato tho Wellington Chnmber, but upon tho broad grounds that this service Jwas proominontly tho best for tho colony. The figures quoted by Mr Travers at Wolliugton woro meaningless as applied to tho.San Francisco sorvico, cooing that they did'not apply. It was moroly a statement of exports and iraport3 in sidling vessels. Mr Duthio, in the Wellington Chamber, makes out tha dilleranco in the two i-crviec3 to bo only 2J days, whoroaa, according to his (tho speaker's) tiguree, which woro olticial, the difference was nottrly six days. Thoy could tako aa an examplo tho last mail per Rinnitaka. She loft 12 hours after tho 'Frieco mail, which loft London en the 21th May, and shoarrivod hero fully nino days after, viz , on [July Sth. He trualcd that the 'Chamber would show tte colony at large wo coidl riso suporiorto tho petty provincial jealousies. Wo were not dependent on this so-ivico for our comraorcial existence, but wo advocated it boeauso ie was best for the colony es a wholo. Tho Chairman con oludod by reading the following telegram :-— Tho Government strongly support the con tinuation of tho 'Fri-ico eervico. They qiiito ngroo that its continuation is desir able, and that tho understanding was that it should bo continued.—Julius voiißU

Tho following statements wero also sub milled :—

For the twolvo months ended May Insl, tho net cost to tho colony of tho San Francisco enrvice was i"3,3'iO. Tho post ages collected in ftow Zealand, £19,392 ; and from London, £11.074. Tho receipts irom Australian colonies and Fiji, £7,50". Tlioso receipts aro nt prcsont at the rate of £14,000 n year Tho contract with tho direct sorvico gave tho following result s- Elovon voyages between Decombor and May last, £4,875 in postage?, and i' 3 320 in bonuses wero paid to tho New Zealand Shipping Company. Tho net coat to the colony, in respect of tho clovon voyages, was £2,(319.

The timos in which tho respective sor vieea woro porformed aro as follow : - Zea landia (London December mail), 41 days, tbo mails woro delayed four days on this occaeion in reaching San Francisco; City of Sydnoy (January Ist), 38 days; Austra lia (January 29th), 3S days; Zealandia (February 26th). 37 days : City of Bydney (March 261h), 39 days; Australia (April 23rd), 39 days; Zealandia (May 21st), 3S days. Avorages, 3S 4-7 th days. The timos of the direct service woro:— Aorangi (London dato, Docombor 20th), 41 days to Port Cha'mers ; Rimutald (January 17th), 45 days to Wellington; Ruapehu (February 14th;, 44 days to Port Chalmers ; Kaikouri (March l(Kh), 40 days to Welling ton : Tongariro( April 11th), 42 days to Port Chalmers ; Aorangi (May 9th), 46 days ; Ruapehu (Juno 6th), 43 days to Port Chalmors. Avorago, 44 day. Tho imports from tho United States were I Auckland, £85,766; Wellington, £55132; Lyttelton, £71,274; Dunedin, £115,269. Exports: From Auckland, £484,369. Nothing from othor ports. Mr J. C. Firth then moved, "Thatosthe San Francisco line ha 3 proved itself to be the beet mail service for the colony of New Zealand, this Chamber strongly urges upon tho Government tho importance of making arrangements for its continuance at the oxplry of the present contract. That the stoppage of thia eervice would bo a retrogrado atop, highly injurious to the commorcial interests of the country, and would c!o3Q tho only ousting lino of com munication to tho vast country of North America." Ho said tho'Frlscolinehadproved itself far the best wo ever had had, and it was maintained at an absurdly low cost to us, viz, £3,300 per annum. It had also the ureat advantages of thorough certainty, the utmost regularity, and to travellers to and from tho colonies it afforded the attractions of a lound tiip. They como from and go to England our way, and return unothor, thus circumnavigating the globo. Everything was in favour of tho rotontion of tho service, and only pitiful local jealousies elsewhere wero hostile to it. If through this cause it woro lost, then it would bo for the Auck land morchants to determine whether they should not combine in a powerful trades union to support the Orient, P. and O. and Union Stoamship Co.'a as opposed to the direct lino which it was sedulously sought to bolster up at the expense of the 'Frisco lino. Mr Firth went on to dspict the bene fits accruing both to the mother country and the colonies with_ the inter change of commercial relations with our kin in America which this service had introducod. It was one of the many tendencies to tho growth of a federal feeling amongst tho great branches of the Anglo- Saxon race.

After eomo discussion tho resolution was pasf-ed unanimously.

TELEGRAMS.

Thames, this day.—A gnmdiggor named David Williams, who fell over a cliff in the Waiotahi district on Monday, and sus tained an injury of tho spine, died in tho Hospital last night.

Blenheim, this day.—A singular charge of stealing a £5 noto at Grovetown Hotel was investigated at tho 11.M. Court to-day. The accused, William Fiahor, who was oinployod at tho hotel, is alleged ts havo stolen it out of the prosecutor's bedroom on Monday night. Tho landlord of the hotel, suspecting tho accused, succeeded, by threats and promisee, of money, in inducing him to admit tho theft. The prosecutor, a man named Fidder, was so drunk and badly behaved in court that Mr Allen, R.M., declined to take his evidence, and tho accused was remanded till Friday.'

PARLIAMENTARY GOSSIP-

(BY OUR bPECIAL KEPORTEB).

WELUN'OTO>f I this day. The Auckland members are taking up a heroic position respecting the attitudo of the Canterbury members, who stato openly in the lobbies that unless tho East and West Coast railway job is carried, they will voto against the North trunk railway and 'Frisco sorvice. It has been cstiinatod that tho oost of the Bast and West Coast railway, with tho valuo of land, will bo eovon millions. Doepito this Canterbury bombast, the Auckland raembors havo tacitly docidod to oppose the job, oven if it allects their dis tricts' intoreats. Mr Hurst made a strong point last night whon referring to tho danger of Sir Goor«o Whitmoro holding tho two ollices of Com mandor-in-Chief and inombei of tho Legis lative Council. Ho said that tho command of tho Voluntoors would give tho Com mander considerable political inlluonco on tho men under him. Mr Macandicw haa givon notice of motion urging tho desirableness of a grand political federation of all English speaking people, and suggesting that a mooting bo held at Now York, Washington, or London. Mr Pearson this afternoons ask tho Government whether thoy havo taken into consideration the expediency of fester ing the trade between New Zealand and Queensland, and if ao, whothor with a view to promoting that object they will -,bo pre pared to recommend tho subsidising steam communication botweon the said colonies. Tho Agnows have boon warned off Parlia mentary grounds, in conscqucnco of their inccßsant importuning of mombors. Tho feeling against tho East and West Coast Railway proposal is very bitter. Tlioro is quito a fonnont in tho lobby, and Auckland and Otago mombors aro exceed ingly active and critical. Mr Whyto asks whether it is the inton tion of tho Government to proceed this session with thoir proposals for the ostab liehment of boards for the management of the railways of the colony, and if so, whon tbe bill to' give effect thereto will be in tho hands of lion, members ? Mr Pyko is introducing bills to provide for the encouragement of schools othor than Stato schools, and amend tho Licensing Act. The latter measure is intended to meot such a case as that of tho Prince Imperial Hotel, South Dunedin, in which the occupier at tho last moment withdrew his application for renewal of tho liconao, to tho groat detriment of tho owner. It seeks to protect tho vested iiiterosts of tho owner.

Mr Joyce has given notice to move for a return of the areas of Crown lands in tho colony suitable for settlement, with such descriptive remarks as tho land department aro able to append, tho said return to be supplemented by reference maps showing tho geographical position of paid areas. Sir Georgo Gioy lias rcnoivod a letter from tho Fiji Annexation Committee re questing him to support their petition. Major Steward writes to mo as follows regarding prospects of his Liconsing Amoidmont Bill:—" I think tho bill is pretty safe for the fiocond reading, though I hear that somo Canterbury liconsed vituallers havo intimated thoir disapproval of it, because compensation for loes of liconsos U not proposed," The most damaging spoecb mado against Col. Whitmore's appointment to tho ollico of commander-in-chief was that of Captain Russell, who pointed out that with the fortifications now erected tho appointment should bj ot a permanent and not of a temporary nature. That being so, tho gontlcman selected for the position should be acquainted with tho scopo of tho duties of military lifo in tho presont day, but whilo Col. Whitmoro was a scientific soldier ola quarter of a century ago, he could not be expected to fullil tho duties required for the office in quoetion. Tho Petitions Classifications Committco meet to-morrow. I understand from sovpibl membors thereof that they will refer Sir Julius Vogol's potition to tho Public Poti tions Committco.

Tho second reading of tho Gaming and Lottorics Amendment Bill has been curried in tho Legislative Council. The Employ ment of Females Amondmont Bill, which was moved by Mr. J. C. Richmond, was thrown out by -1 to l'f.

TABLE TALK

Poultry Snow to morrow

Tho greatest of all faults is to bo con scious of none.

Mayor of Dunedin dccliuoil to grant ha.lt' holiday for tho football match, Halo's houso on tho banks of tho South Wairoa River was burnt down last Satur day night. Insurance, X'JSO Now Zealand Otiico,

Thoro are moro than 2,.")00 lady physicians in tho United States.

Burnett's woodwaro factory and Hiding's furniture establishment at Cartorton havo boon destroyed by tiro.

Non-market Borough proposes to raiso a loan of £6,000 for waterworks and drainago,

There have been nino wars in Europe within tho last thirty years.

Entries for tho Poultry Show clo6O at eight o'clock to-night.

A sharp indentation immediately abovo the chin bhows good understanding.

Waterworks scheme planned for Deven port by Mr Knox is undor consideration. An allotment has been purchased in Free man's Bay, on which it is proposed to erect a mission nail at a cost of £20u or £300.

Smoking during service is s&id to bo cus tomary in eomo of tho rural churchos of Holland.

Last nights of tho "Two Orphans." Another spectacular production to follow.

D. Williams, who was injured by falling down the Waiotahi Creek, has died from his injuries.

New trial refused to the Tran. way Com pany in the cubb in which .CSOO damages were awarded to Northe.

Theßita-Uadolifl'e book oih'co is now open atleir.ox's.

Donovan's houeo at llangiora has been destroyed by tiro.

It ia expected that tho net proceeds of George Morris's benefit will amount, to bo tween £50 and £60.

Wellington dotoetives aro investigating an alleged case of poisoning, by which two old people, after partaking of somo soup, showed symptoms of poisoning, but quickly recovered after medical treatment.

According to the will of a New Hampshire man,hia "dear wife " is to receive £2,000 in case she remains single eight weeks aftor his death.

Mr John White leaves for Wellington by next .steamer to put his collection of Maori traditions arid mythology into form for publication.

Dotocti^cs from Dunodin, Auckland, Christchurch, Timaru, and Napior, will do duty in Wellington during the time tlio Exhibition ia open. It ia probablo that a few uniform constables will also bo sent from each of these places.

About on acre of land has Hoparatod from tho point at Orakoi Bay, and now forms a kind of small island bastion.

INQUEST ON THE PRINCES ST. FIRE.

We continue the ovidonco given at the inquiry Into tho lire in Princes-street at the point whom ov.r report broke oil1 yeßtorday.

William Bushell Pierce, proprietor of tho Waiteniata Billiard-room, Giey-atroet, dopoecd that first of all ho insured his dwelling-house in the Colonial Insurance Compnny, at the sugges tion of Mr Hatawell, the one-at for that Com pany, who had shown him two flrcs laid nndor liia counter. Witness aftorwards rented Hie property faclnß Princes-street, which ho ro let to Mr Hard wick. Suu?cqueutly wituees discovered lhat ho could inuiro in the Fire As sociation for os per hundrod less tlinn the Colonial, lie effected tho first insurance on tho fruit and cigar shop fronting Piincoß-uircet, and tho second insurance wiaeift-cied by hia wife on tho Waterloo Quadrant side. This wns truns-forrod from tho Colonial policy. Sir Trenchard made out the application for in surance, witness in no case signing any policy. Ho had not £139 worth of prints niid drawings in the house. This policy win supposed to be a copy of tho old Colonial oolicy. Tho f nr nittire in tho policy of tho Coloniul was all iv tho Wnlcrloo Quadrant building, and the furnituro in tho Princes-street portion waa purchased subsequently. 'J he same furnituro was not in the two policies. Hu oatinmtort tlio valuo of his prints and drawings at between £J0 and £GU. Ho wes at tho liilliurd-roum whnn tlio liro occurred, and by the time ho arrived the place Wdß in ilamos, so that ho was unablo to save anylhing. r ßy Mr (Jotter: Mr llatowoll Bhowed him two fires under the counter. This caused him to insarc. Mr Hatswell said that he be lieved a servant had done it, By Mr Cotter: Before witness s arrival in AucoKland he had been in business at Timaru, He had also kopt a boarding-touae at Christ phurch. He hed about £160 when ho landed In Auckland. He had tranaferrod tho policies ?m wC2 hSn^ the. mon°y-londor. for a loan of £32. He had done husinc* s with Mr Cohon threo tini-s. a& he tin;', require nu-v I--. ■i-^ ■ ■-■ > arf.icl«R for new boatd.-.rs. At tfco 'tiu^ "h tlisj lira ho owed about £5!), Imi utmo cf his creditors were presbiug him. The policies were nt }Ay Cohen's place when tho flro occurred. One of his pictures cost him &>l. He had put it down at £15. Ho had puronaßed a largo quantity of furnituro since his arrival In Auckland. Tho inquoßt was then adjourned until Thurs day next, at 10 o'clock.

THE EAST AND WEST COAST RAILWAY.

Government Statement.

[jir IBLEGBAriI.— PEESS ASSOCIATION.]

Wellington, Tuesday. A Ministerial statement regarding tho East ami West Coast Railway was road in tho House this afternoon by Sir Julius Vocjsl. He,said:—lntelligence haa bee n received by cable from the delegates who wont homo to arrange the construction of tho East and West Coast and Nelson Bail way lino that thoy have concluded nn ar rangement with Messrs Meiggs and Sons (a well- known firm of railway contractors and financiors), who haveagrecd in writingto con struct (ho railway provided further conces sions aro granted. They ask, in addition to tho land granted, a guaranteed payment of £07 000 in oxceeu of working expenses por annum for 20 years, payable in London half yearly, commencing after tho railways aro finished; and they state it is intended to finish them in from three to fivo years. Tiio amount of i' 97,000 is arrived at, bocauso of ito being 2i per cent, on the cost, which is thus estimated: —Actual cost of tho works, £3,025,000 (which closely roscmblod our own estimate); interest during construc tion, £-100,000; engineers and administra tion' L'so 000; and oxponsos of under-writing .C'iSa.OOO, making in all £3,560,000, 2£ per cont.' on which would equal (within £000) tho l':i)7,000 asked for. In considering this proposal,,it is desirable first to compare it with one for constructing tho railways our selves. If wo have to construct them our selves by borrowing the monoy, wo should suvo tho £385,000, tho last of the items I havo montioned. Tho railways would, how over, cost us moro for interest during con- Btruction. Tho £400,000, is ovidontly com puted on tho basis of about four years occu pied in the construction. But if W9 have to construct ourselves, we ehould be very unlikely to do the work in less than ten years, and calculating interest at 4 per cent, for tho mean period of five years, that would give us £615,000 as the cost of interest. Again, we should be out of the interest during construction, whilst under the pre sent offer we pay nothing until tho whole works aro concluded, and then instead of plying 4 per cent, on £3,075,000, equal to £123,000, we shall be paying only £97,000. Aa regards the effects on the consolidated revenue, tho difference i& this : In the one case weehall pay nothing until the railways aro completed, and then be liable for £97,000 a year; in tho other, before the railways aro completed we shall havo paid out of ordinary revenue £015,000, and should havo to continue to pay annually £123,000 a year. Again, aB tho £97,000 will only com mence after tho railways aro constructed, wo shall begin with the reduction, conse quent upon tho receipts in excess of worK ing expenses. It may bo siid, if we con struct the railways they will be ours. This will only bo so because wo are liable for tho coat as Woll as tho interest; in other worda, wo fhall have raised a loan of £3,075,000, but under tho present arrange tnonte we aro liublo for nothing but the £97,000 for twenty years, whilst we are to havo tho option of purchasing at coat price lefs depreciation at'any time. In evory way, therefore, tho arrangement has much to commond it, except it might be urged tho grant of land to which we are in this caeo pledged, but as regards this land the circumstances must be considered. It is a va9t tract of inaccessible land wnich will bo almost useless unless railways are formed. I havo supposed as an alternative, wo should be ready to construct the line in ton years, but it might bo tho casO that tho line would not be completed at tho cost of the colony in much moro than ton years. Meanwhile, what is tho use of the land ? If it were the property of a private individual, ho would gladly give to any persons who would construct tho railway half of it in alternate blocks, and that ia what we have to do. Tho altornato blocks we retain will bo fivo times moro valuable than tho whole as it is now. Nor must we omit from con sideration that whilst the lino is boing constructed wo shall get immense receipts on tho sections between Christchurch and Springfield, between (■reyniouth and Brun ncrton, and botweon Nelson and Belgrove. Wo proposo to ask tho House to cottsidei* this most important subject in committee of tho whole on Friday next. We shall prepare a resolution approving of the proposal on tho condition that aftor tho roads aro completed, and when tho payment of C 97.000 begins, half tho cost, whatover it may bo, and it is not likely to oxcood £00,000, for tho railway should at least yield 1 per cent, to begin with, should bo charged to tho provincial district of Canterbury north oi tha Hangi tata, and tho Provincial Districts of Nelson and Wostland, as woll as the entiro cost of maintaining tho main roads between Nolson and Grey mouth, and between Christchurch and Hokitil-n. Asrogardsthomodoofimpos ing tho charge, we proposo it should be done by moans of a property tax imposed within tho districts juet mention©i. I estimatothc maximum is unlikoly to amount to a half penny in tho pound, and that it will dwindle soon to very little, if anything, if tho line continues opon. Supposing the estimate of 1 por cont. over working expenses is correct, tho colony would havo to pay about £33,000 a year, and would cave tho main tenanco of roads that cost it now about £l(>,000 per annum: As regards tho three districts mentioned, the increase of pro perty tax would yield over tbe present amount, after tho expenditure of all the monoy, and the completion of the railways would bo such that I consider they will not lcquiro to pay a tax of nearly so much as a halfpenny in tho £ ; but, if thoy have to do so, thoy will bo well able to afford it in return for the vast benefit, direct and indirect, tho railways will bring to them. In any case, they must consider that it is un likely tho colony will continue to maintain tho roads in question for longer than the period of three or four years. Now, as re gaids tho whole colony, the departure is of great importance. From all parts of New Zealand como up requests for railways more or less desirable As long as provision is not mado for the East and Weßt Coast and Nelson Railways, tho way is stopped to any fair extensions of othor lines or to fresh routes, but if these lines be provided for, and if they aro to be constructed at no cost to tho colony, excepting when they are com ploted, and then a cost which comparod with thoir valuo will be a more trifle, tho way is open to consider other lines, and the plan wo now adopt will be appli cablo to other parts of the colony. There aro other lines which we consider should be made on tho responsibility of tho colony -such as the main line to Auck land and its extension north, the extension of tho Otago Central to the Wanaka, the extension from llokitika to Grey ; but if Southland or Otago wish to penetrate to the Wo-t Coast; if the Hakataramea or Wai mate are to bo further' extended ; if Marl borough and Canterbury are to bo connec ted ; if Gisborno, Tauranga, and New Plymouth aro to have openings to the main lino, the same plan of the districts interested providing half tho annual cost can be adopted.

Mr YV. _F. Bucklasi) wanted to know whether, if the matter were taken in Com mittee of the Whole, the debate would be reported in "Hansard."

The Speakjss replied that all financial discussions in Committee of the Whole were printed.

Sir Gkoege Gkey thought that notice of motion should be given. The Treasurer could give notice now, and move for going into Committee of tho Whole tomorrow. Ho objoctod to tho hurry. Tho Si-KAKKB: In that caso tho notico will have to bo given.

Sir Julius Vogkl : Then I^givo notico that on Thursday I move that the House reeolve itself into Committee of the Whole on Friday to consider this matter.

WRECK OF THE KRIEMHILDA.

Additional Particulars,

fBY TELHGRAIMI.]

Wanoaroa, this day, Tjik schooner Kriemhilda wont ashore at Taupo, six miles north of Whangaroa Hoarln, on Saturday night. It wns blowing a hard galo at tho timo, with rain. Tho crow took to tho boats, but got capsized in tho surf. Thoy managod, howovor, to got on .soiiio rocks, and romained there all ni^ht. They ruiclied the Maori t-cttlcmont on Sun day morning, and wero well treutod by tho natives. Tho vossol is a total wreck,

FIJIAN ANNEXATION.

Petition to thoNewZea^a^ *' Wei,unot6s tit '■ 1 Some considerable stir Waß ?#. g aftornoon whon the Premier i^^wi ho had a petition to present fteJflHvilft tants of Fiji praying for mcorpj^lf Now Zealand. F. H. Prichard ( Wlvl Levuka, who acts- as Secrthr^lHw Annexation Committee ha*i''^HmSP' regret that ho bad not SSWsffiH' assurance of moro active tho Govornmont of thia coloFl-Cffll to cay, "Tho ComtaiC^ NHp do not fail to reaiiae the difciJ^fcfii?l. by tho refusal of tho Imperial^^l* to entertain tho proposal at'nSSfii they trust that such r«p W s 6n CT« yet bo mado by your GovornS1 W evontually convert this refn T H«m consent." ™ KB li Fijian annexation, thePiw on Friday, "That awl«et coniS£Sffi pointed to consider the TOtttSc'wH sottlois and colonists of.Pijr^JH general position of the EaaL^iH Islands in their relatiou to ]kf >«4H such committee to consist of i^B Fit/.herbert, Garrick, Grey yS» Macandrow, Moss, Ormond. Main^fy^wl and Vogol. Threo to'forni a stoNffl report in tlirco weeks."

WEST COAST RAILWAY.

BREWING OPPOSITION i Mr Dargaville Withdraws Hli«'- HS Tin-: rumours that the Canto^J'Hf|» land railway job have oustedilll'^^B matters of gossip from the iobbii. .fiHI morning, and already I can eeethatt' will run high over this jnattejr wB the present party linea wilibedSgllp The following is a carefuUy.pteS?'H| mato of the cost of the work toSjw'i that has been prepared, andallSmJiH! comes out of the Colonial ExehwaiVvß! of works, £3,8SO,000; gnarantMrf«ljH for twenty years, £I>MO,OOo|«Sm of interest on guarantee oF-jHMffl cent., £1,154,000; value of:-£■ East and West Coast route,-fwHB ditto on Nelson line, £50O,0(|Q,^l§l on working expenses, £251,(j(|Q'kH £7,437,000. You will thus ewtwlffii amount required fbrthls politicalMilEl cient to construct the l^orth leUndSE trunk line, finish the Otago CwES and perform other works that wHI bo remunerative to the Colow. tIH Durgavillo for one has been'{Uj^B into Opposition in conseqoiiJiHH tho job. He has addrearf ill following letter to Mr Stoat'j'kffiffl Sir, —I regrfit to have ,to';jl2ra§| you that the financial proposals 2fl|.> 'by the Government ttf the HotfLjU time to time, this session, biit;'in&HH those in connection with the propotdlSl1 '! struction of the East and TfwLHf Railway a'ro of such' a nature £ljpf| compelled to go into1 Opposition. I^Hill continue to esteem you an liMtoiffi and high minded statesman, btf Ml] cannot help thinking that.Jiitelynpfjlp have subjected your ]rcdgmm('fe||H.' of ono or tnora of your colleagoi" lijlSHv likely that Otago and Aucklan4;niri|Bßs will unite en masse agoinrt tfee Gofenaalwi To Mf Dftrgaville's letter iSffinilß has replied: " I am in recetjt MS your letter, and regret yos.-'i |JISI approve of our financial prcpilH As to the East and West ComtSiflJpft tho colony is pledged to the CoDetr«ta(i§| these lines f>f communication^ui mm question we havo to consider ie, wklliing modo that can be adopted that wßwiiß!| least responsibility on tfcfl eoionyj ft»|j§| ing you for your past support—lt, Bct'Bh Tim East and West Coartnilniißß strongly denounced by tbe Ne«iUM| "Times," which says:—"TheprcpJiffi so astounding in its unblushing effra>,«| , Its reckless extravagance, ite ta&nfl : disregard of all common Jrfudmcj, tlilkHi difficulty is to deal with it serioiiljlUK So monstrous and indefensible aeeuukHj never yet been offered theNewZsjywJl liament, anditisimrK)Bsibletod^S|in|jßj| too strong -language. It m»y.dcmliWjl ' taken for granted that there Js4JMwi||J|: to tho arrangements, namoly, thutiDi*; for such concoasions memborß fortotrt | r || , T , tricts interested shall give the GiWW||J| i,i a block voto during tho rcmaiiidfltii4||||| session. It this really no so, then Ms without hesitation t'.iat pmoro wig I; ,: and unhallowed compact has ami b■■.■■. j, graced representative institP.ww" M -i ■

A PIRATICAL CREW.

Tho Yacht Ariel Stolen. ,M About two months ago, Mr Bake^kHH Wade, reported to tho police thatMffl| Ariel, a vessel of about 6 (ods meatwHß had been stolen from hermooringjii.iiW land harbour. From investigafiwJß subaequently it was iiecoveW HH two notable characters, one u.nHH is known as "Ginger," held pasffl of the yacht, and that theyjJJH the habit of cruising around after dark "seeking whom WWI devour." .Small boats, oars;uM gear belonging to small eraftjWOT quontly been missed, and the ovHjj^H good idea as to the perptretwi'l!ii thefts. Recontly a resident WftH head, Mr Blyt-he, commnnil|T h 'Bll the police by letter, in which tiJßm scribed sundry acts of annoy»WW|-, trttsd by the Ariel's crew. (iIH that having missed several articles MPf ceeded to board the yacht, »»«JB hor c-ow attempted to beat him °?"T|l|p spade and he had to threaten *9«WI .'■ which he carried. In consequen<*»tMl reports, the Water Police have W*™ excursions in chase of the Aria-■ Saw crew. Yesterday they cams-toPM?" yacht, snugly stowed away, high ""TOl in a little cove near Biverheaa ) -W,lW| wore unfortunately unable t°c°!™™^ra. crow of two, who were said to B8 up. °J|m ' gumdiggingj ■ >:.:

THE BURGLARY AT OTARU.

At the K.M. Court, Otahuho, beforo Captain Jackßon, B' M"a^J^H Richard Buchanan, a respectabl^M young man about SO years lately in the employ of the Railway W*j mont, waa charged with Bail way station, and stealing tWi^aß sum of £4. Tho accußed was d^Mj Mr T. Cooper. It appears MSSMj 7th inst, tho station-master, .on ™.i|fei from the village, whither he "•jEfflffl a short time on business, f°UD*(°3|| riHed o£ its contents; a, nd,, „,Jili search, discovered tho thief had el^|jgi building by forcing the window -W constable was informed and VwJmm arrested, and a sum of money an _ f chisel wore found upon him. *» , qui.y before tho Bench yeß]f dXltf»Spt of witnesses were examined ijriwr^ tion, the chief evidence being "^SEMI ' was seen going towards the """HjiiMHl That the marks on the window «»iffl| wore of the samo'width as the "".■fflH chisel, and that for some dlst*no°3lffiH lino could bo scon shoe marks p^ the shoes aa worn by accusjd.. reserved his defence, and the JOT^HHI committed for trial-; ball ol'offeo',T two at £75 each. ;

MINING NEWS.

[BY TELEGRAPH—OWN COKBKSPO^ j THAME3,'^?B ; Caledonian Low Levki..—Trw WjjH from tho drives on tho cross-ImJ^JH largo reef at tlio C4O feet crushod this week at thoOukleDp> r| °Nwv iM.\.NUKAf.-About'2olo« dirt havo been treated at tho battorv for tho satisfactory retnra || 'tS-Tho return *£& from the last fortnights op^jflfflj 532J0Z8. The reef in the "• t tfm ft looks well, and P«yablf m S «X blasted out for a width o£ morl!i«il 1 at one point, whilo specimens w (ll> yesterday near the floor w ,«gK auguring well for luMie, » ..'■■ifJßs [ battery'wtil i>j emp'oyod *'^itfH in the workings from tho new^, Darwin. - A considerableJ^p, quartz is on hand, »»«l crnduC <ffiM& have been started ut the Pnn»



QPEGIAL CHEAP LINES. jjooj. 'IS o,D~WOBTH OF WAItE- X^ot £ o HOUBK AND TRAVELLERS' SAMPLES have been pur chased by WILLIAM R. BRIDGMAN At n Heavy Discount, ana will be Sold Cheap to clear quickly., comprising some very Choice Gcoda In endlcsß variety in Gloves, Hosiery, Handkerchiefs, Sunsnadeß,, Umbrellas. Not Cor tains. Ladies' Mantles, Coraota. Jackets, Capes, Ladles' Underclothing. Aprons. Pinafores.Cosicß, Collars, Collarettes, Children's Blouses, Robes Infants Wrappers, Hoods, Sun Bonnets, Men'a Shirts, Hats, Scarves, Boys' and Men's Clothing. £25 Worth of the Newest Lineq.in Feathers, being and exceedingly choice lot in plumes and Ostrich Flats. As Ido not usually keep these goods, will pc softl cheap to clear quickly Large Lot o£ Windsor Soarves, bought at Owen and Graham's Sal?, from 8d to Is, worth Is 6d to '2s. Sound geods Not having room for Ch'na Mattings, will sell those in stock at a great reduction Balanco Winter Stock of Blankets, some slightly soiled, at a great reduction Splendid Btock of Tweeds, from cheap to very Rood, very much reduced in price Being rathor overstocked in Clothing, will allow 20 per cent, discount for a short fmo to clear, as stock is too largo In this department Large Lot of Remnants at very low rates. 28S—Ul'PKR QITBKNRTREF.T.—2BS



NOT ID 1 DR, WILK IN S, P. R. C, 8., CONSDLTWQ AND OPERATING BUHBEON, iv at Ills Burgery for General Practice and Special Fraction - Kyn, Enr. and Throit Diseases —.VornlnKS and Af iiirauous; Sundays, 10 SO to 12.3 U. Consultation t'oue vary tnodenitfl. Dk Wilkins spent seren years at Mooreflelds Kyi- Hospital, London, under Messrs Bowman onii Crltohett, two at Throat Hospital, London, (.even Tears Honorary Surgeon Albert Hospital, nnc! dipht years at Eye, Ear, and Throat Infirmary Melbourne. Acfjunta Spectacles to Sight,— Conanltlna Koome— Oueen-Btreot. AuoKland, JUST PUBLISHED *^ AT Alt THB BOOKBBLLBBB, ! AICKIN'S ANKUAL, A iOOMHSTIO MBDIDAL QVIDE. AND SATISTIOAL RKCORD OF THE POPULATION. VITAL STATISTICS, / PRODUCTION, Jco. ALSO, NOTES ON HEALTH AND HYGIENE, * With other Valuable Information. Fbicb i» .„.».. Ons Shuuko.



■VT OTICE OF REMOVAL. •j. a. cooaßu • Begs to1 inform'his frioridß and the public gene rally that he has REMOVED HIS HAT MAKUFACTOUY TO TUB PREMISES LATELY OCCUPIED DV T. & H. COOKE. Note the Adduess— jf~* I „„.„„, 11, VICTORIA-STREET-, ORMO N D S SWISS CIGARS Have been recognised as tho BEST foe iHul a century. — » TLE TT, O 151, QUKHXBTREET. Chronomotors, VVatches, Clocks, and Jewellery in groat varioty, and made to order or ropalred; Poesy, Motto, Engagement and Wedding Rings. Orders by post carefully eseouted. t ' THE NEmtJOOPS THE NKW GOODS THE NK.W GOODS THE NEW GOODS Are now opened out FOB THE WINTER. FOR THK WINTER FOR THB WINTER FOfl THE WINTER. Tha Stock In tho larsert and bosi seleoted in the citr, and to - MKKT TITK TIMEB MEET THK TtMBS -ring? MKKT THE TIMKB TIHB MKET THK TIMES X E VI Several lines tn every De partment are marked at ZEALAND P"°<» CLOTDING sS^ A LYLY CICHtIp FACTORY, Sl^lY^. 158 & 160, Soeon-streot, The Juvenile Department has reofilvert cloho attention, and parents will find DURABILITY ANDKCONOMY DURABILITY ANDECONOMY DURABILITY ECONOMY DURABILITT ECONOMY Combined Is the leading feature. In Boys' Fanoy Bui ts several new and oholoe styles are now bains ihovra, Milke and Choice Beg to announce tha purchase of several CLEARING CLEARING LINES, LINES, From the Wholesale, previous to their Stock taking, at considerably less than Cost Price, and that tho Goods are marked at a very small advance on the cast. 11. and C. oan now therefore submit the following SPECIAL LINES AT ABOUT ENGLISH PRICES. LARGE QUANTITY OF COSTUMES LARGE QUANTITY OF LADIES' MANTLES, JACKETS, AND ULSTERS, Also, CHILDREN'S JACKETS, ULSTERS, AND COSTUMES, FORTY-EIGHT BOXES FRILLING. TWENTY-FOUR DOZENS BLACK SILK F R INGE. FORTY-THREE DOZENS COLLARETTES, BOWS, 4c. QUANTITY DRESS MATERIAL. QUEEN AND WELLESLEY-STREETS, AUCKLAND. Q.OLDEN HEM TpLOUR, MANUFACTURED BY THE LATEST IMPROVED ROLLER PROCEBB, BY RICHARD ALLEN AND CO., BKLFORD MILLS, TIMARU. Thk First Shipment is Just to Hand. TO BAKERS- Do you want a White and Gigantlo Loaf ? Tho GOLDEN GEM Flour will recom mend itself; It excels both In colour and strength. TO BTORBKKBPERS- Note the Brand: Original, Elaborate, and Attraotive. TO HOUSBHOLDERS II you desire (and who does not I) to obtain a superior and reliable flour, inslßt upon having the "GOLDEN GEM." The machinery by whloh It ia manufactured Is upon the Hungarian Roller Process; it has recpntly been erected at vast cost, and there ia nothing to equal it In the Southern Hemisphere. Tho nndorslgned is the sole agent tor Auck land and the Provinoe. and has made arrange ments for regular shipments. A parcel or flf rles (conspicuous brand) packed In Backs is en route In the Ohau. Orders are now being booked, and will bo filled STRICTLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH PRIORITY. ALFRED JOWITT, WHOLESALE GRAIN AND PRODUCK MERCHANT AND IMPORTER, CUBTOMfI-SIKBBT SISX.



TX 'L, POSSE NI S X IJS, * MERCHANT TAILOR, BIIOKTXAND-HTEKKT, AUCKLAND (Opposite Mcssra A. Clark and Sons), importeu ov ENGLISH, SCOTCH, FRENCH. AND GER MAN COATINGS AND TKOUSKIUNGS. COLONIAL TWBKOS. A choice üßßOiinieutof Fancy Vcatinga, Tailors Trimmings, &o, _ The Trado liberally dealt \vi"i. MISS SMITH, SIAY. COIISBT. AND BANDAGE MAKE It, FiiUAN^ COITAUB, GCNDUY-BTKEKT, NEWrON', Fti? many yoara Fitter in the leading Establish wont in Edinburgh. Ladies waited on In town and suburbs. FOR THE launduv and household, Ladies ARE INVITED TO USE 1' YIUM I D SOA 1\ Tho most economical Soap made in New Zealand. Full woight guaranteed. L. W. MoGLASHAN, Wliolesalo Agent, COMPTON'S BUILDING.



Noleon Chambor of Couiinorco has decided that it would be inexpedient to torminato tho 'Frisco mail service, but considers that America should have some part of the cost. To-morrow's "Spectator" will contain : -Out and About, Constablo Herbert's Capture ot Buna, tho Burglar, &c, &0.. Portrait oil Mr J Arneil. tho Captain ot the Ponsonby Football team, wi'h biography, UieLaUst Im portation in Fox Terriers, win v^rirait. Cour sing Notes (by Gazehound). 'fkr! !>*otc-3 (by Painty Ariell. OutDoor Pastimes (by Referee), Mcibournc Li < - l,y an Old Aucklaiidor, Temple of T)u bus, ; inmoralty Kewarded, a true tale ol City Life in Auckland, Auckland Street Dresses (by Stella), Fashion Notes (by May). Ladies Letter (by Gold Nib), this Wicked World (by the Silent Spectator), Whims of the People, &0,, So. A startling number. Price, 2d, Don't fail to read,-[Aon.]



Mr .Tennosp, jeweller, haß presented a cheque for £00, to be divided amongst tho members of the police force in Wellington and Lyttolton, who traced and captured ■ Allendale, the burglar. New Employment of Females Bill thrown , out at the Upper House,



Concrete.—Wby have timber buildings when concrete ones are so cheap, dry, and can bo erected quickly 1 On sale. Hydraulic Lime. Bricks, Salt and Fresh Band, Pipes, &c. J.W. will meot customers from 1 to 3 (oxoopt Satur days), to give free information on concrete. All Muhurangi limes are not alike.—J.Wilson and Co., Customs-street West, opposite Gleeson's HOUI.-lADVT.J ICever Rktcrv.—Tt is paid !hnt oio out of orets iou: n«a> iii vn.Y,d\i wliofco to t,-.v-:i?;c conn' t'/Joj to lc.-o"! . ,■ ,:':b i:'j\:-: rer;!r.";!;-,.-,.-acpt tS a Borpst, T.: ur.u-3!l:iit!s, I'.e.-.r tv the hntei kcetCtti, havo the inoai pr^ lliablu tmsiuess. Tliis excessive mortality may bo prevented and p-.tlcnts oaved and circd under the care of friends and loved onoa at home, if they will but uao American Co.'s Hop Biiters in time. Road. Chainbors'a celebratel] sewing machines, 2 i Queen-atroot.