COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &c., To-night.

Choral Hall-Choral Society's Concert, 8. Ponsonhy Residents, Ponsonby Hall, 7.30 p.m. Royal Lancers, Biding Sohool, 8 p.m. Hdea Lodge, Masouio Itall, Newton, 7 30. Walto's Hall-Select Ball. 8. Newton Hall-Annual Mix ting of Protestant /.liinnco, 8.

Auction Sales To-morrow.

Gabriel Lowis-Fancy Goods, 11 Vailo and Bradley-Christmas Poultry, 10.30. R. Arthur—Property, 11, Edward Loydon—Watches, &c, 11. D. F. Evans-Coach Factory Plant, 11. Samuol Cachrano and Son-Concrcto Resi lience, 12. B. Tonka and Co.—Terra Cotta Ware, 11. Morton and Jaoks:n—Oats, 10.30. Carbines and Taylor-Produce, Poultry, &c., 11 a.m.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Wails will close aa ucdor :—

This Day, JTor Wangarel Heads, Parua, Waipu, Wangarei, Kaino, and Mangapai, per Macgregor, at 5 p.m. For Thumoe, per Kotuku, at 0 p.m.

Wbdnkbdat, December 23. 3Tor New York, por Nettle, at 11 a.m. For Greymouth uer Ohau, at 1 p m. i«'or Katl Katl and Aongateto, via Thames, por Rotomahana, at 2 30 p.m. lor Tbamos, por Rotumahana. at 3 p.m. J"or Tauranga, and Opotiki, por Wellington, at 5

p.m. Jl"or Wangarei Heads, Parua, Waipu, Wangarei, and Kanio, per Wuttaki, at 5 p.m. lor Tnarnos, por Bnterprlse, at b.SU p.m.

Thursday, December 21 For Port Ktzroy, Tryphena, and Okupu, pia Argylo. at 7 o .in. For Puiikl. Cowes, and Coromandol, per Coro-

mandul, at 11.30 a in. For Glsborno, Napior, Soutnern ports, and Australian Colonies, per Ringarooma, at 11 turn. For Wangarel Heads. Paroo. Walou, Wangarel, Kamo and Mangapci, per Glenclg, at 6 p.m.

TnuBSDAY. December 31,

for Friendly and Navigators' Islands, Tahiti, and Rarotonga, per Janet Nicoll.

Tuesday, January 5. Per Alameda as follows: - For Navigator Islands, Sandwioii Manas, United States of America, Canada, British Qolumbla. Central and South America, and Britleh tti Forelsn West Indies, at l p.m for United Kingdom and Candcenl of Karops, lit 1 p.m 14-jne? ordeis, 10.30 p.m. Registered loctura ttt.i cewipapers. at 11.30 p.m. Late lattcrf, bearing aa exivi fee of six pence la addition to lie postage, will be received by the Mall Agest ou beard the utaames cp to the tune cf aalllcK Thla mall will bo due In Lsndon about Feb. 10.

NoTK.-Ftiday, 25th instant (Chrißtraa9 Day) trill be observed as a Postal Holiday. All malls for despatch on that day will be oloeed on Thursday, Zlth lnsiunt, at 7p m. The Delivery Department will be open ou Thursday night, from 7to 8 oVock. On Boxing Day the Post office will be open in all branohos from 9 to 10 a.m., and the usual despatoh of mails will close nt 9 a.m, Blgned) S. B. BISB, Chief Poetmaßter, Obiet Poat-ofHce, Auckland.

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

Sujcsbt.—TMb evening, 7.13. Bi7Nltlß«.—To-morrow morning, iJS. Moon's Abb.—Full Moon. 22nd, 8 38 a.m,

HIGH WATER.

Auckland-This evening, 6 40; to-morrow morning, 6.68. '

MiNtTKAT? Hbads—This evening, 9.20; to-mor row morning, 9.38. Kaipaba iibai'B-This evening, 10.20; ta-inor row morning, 10.38.

ARRIVALS.

TODAY. Nelson. H.M.S., Rear Admiral George Tryon, C.B, Irom KussoU Maogregor. s s., Johnson, from Whangaroi

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVENINQ. Ensign, barque, Mills, for Kaipara Riogarooma, s.a , Pophsro, for Russell Clansmas, s c., Farqnhar, for Kubpoll Wellington, s.s., Stevenepn, for Tsuranga Argylo, s.B, Amodco, for Meroury Bay ' Waliakl, 8.5., Crawford, for Whangarei Gleneig, s.s., Norbury, for Whungarei aouthern Cross, s.s., Bpinks, for South

STEAMERS TO ARRIVE.

Enterprise, from Thames, to-a orrow, 1 a.m. Cliissman, from Kussell, Friday : : ; KaUioura, from Plymouth, via Pott Cbalmeis, about January 10 Coromandol, from Coromandol. to-morrow, 8

p.m. Argyle, from Mercury Bay, Thursday Jannet Niccol, from Sonth, early Waitaki, from Whangarei. tbia evening Gleneig, from Whangarei. to-morrow evening Ohau, from South, Thursday Maitai, from South, Friday Rotomahana, from Thames, to-morrow, Ip.m. Wellington, from Tauranga, to-morrow, early Rlngarooma, from Rujeeil, to-morrow, early [For projected departures aoe shipping ad. vertisoments and mall notices.]

EXPORTS.

Per Nettie, for Now York—l,l46 cases gom.

Inwards Coastwise.—Agnes Martin, from Eusaell, with 67 tons coal; Lizotte, from Thames, with 16,000 ft timber; Deveron, from Whangarei, with 15 tons coal.

OunvAKDS Coastwisb,—Mercury, for Tal vua; iiovoron, for Whangarei.

The 8.8. Rlngarcoum loftfor Russell last even ing. Passengers: Mossrs Kitohon, MoLaveu, and Maeeey.

The schooner Jessie Nicool arrived at Ly ttelton from Thamos yesterday.

The schooner Saxon leftTimaru for Whangarei on the 15th inst

The barque Sam Msndel cleared at the Cut.' tomg for London this Bfrornoon, iuul will pro* bably sail to-morrow, with a full cargo of woo!, sum, Cc and tho following taorongers;—Mr and Miss Ami Beonutt, family (j), and main, Mrs M. Fcreaon,

The brigantioe Nettie has cleared at the Cob tonis for New York, with a full cargo of gum.

The B.S. Macgrcgor arrived from Whangaroi this morning. Passengers: — Me»3rs King, Father Mahoney, MoL»an, McKonzie. O'Noil, MUior, O'Neil, Wells, Mezrier. Saad, Delainoy, Boyd, Comes, Rosoy, Carriel. Hunter, Stella, Collins, Charles Laundry, Coasor, Krngley, Kettleson, O'Donnell.Boll, Tewky.Oney, Tahay, Woatera, Misses Steadman, Duddor, ainolair, Furnla, and twelve steerage.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS.

Galrloch, b.b.. MoArthur, from Waitiua Oreti, 8.5., Robertson, fconi New Plymouth

DEPARTURES.

Gnlrloch, 8.8., MoArthur, for Waltara Uretl. b.b.. Robertson, for New Plymouth and Wanganul

The 5.3 Hawea, which left for Southern ports yosterday evening, took tbe following pasacn gers :—Misses Barnes, Gibbons, Nixon,fiannah, Mrs Tomlineon and live children, Mr and Mrs Murray and maid, Mr and Mrs Hollingdrake, Mr and Mrs Harding and two children, Messrs Worthington, F. J. Reid, B. K. Heco, J. M. Devenlsb, A. Kemp, Waterer, Hnmphroyß, W. Elliott, H, Rutherford, Tumlinnon, 'furrin, 11, Mainland, G. J. Morjls. . T

The 8,8. Oreti arrived from Taranaki early tlila morning, with a cargo of stock. She left again for Wanganul via Taranaki at three O'olook ; : :

The Northern Co.'b s s. GAirloch arrived from Waltara at 11 o'clock this morning, with a full cargo of sheep and cattle aud the following passengers: — Caldwell. Butt (3), Gibson, Maunder, Messrs Saint, Bofty, Evans, Doghorty, Holme*, Jones. Denny, J. T. Jones, Dogherty, W. Jones, G. P. Jones," Gilbert, Costa badie, BlschofT, and Glb.'on. She loft again at tbree o'olook for Waltara, with cargo and a number of passengers.

KAIPARA SHIPPING.

Heads, this day.-Sailed, on Saturday: Peli can ; yesterday the Defiance and Parnoll eg nayed to get out, but had to return to their an chorage. Loaded: Marmlon.

The Sinking of the Tangihua,

Dakoavillk, this day.—The offlcar of Cus toms held a preliminary inquiry last evening into the collision between the Tanglhna'and Minnie Casey, acd forwarded the evWence to the Marino Department. On Sunday, Captain Seymour visited the scene of the disaster, and found the Tanijihua sunk in cix fathoms at low water, off Terra voint. He buoyed the wreok.and has to-day engagad the service of diveis. Messrs Mltchelaon arc making use of the cervices of the Annie Wilson and Linda Weber to raiso the steamer aid beach her !br. repairs.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Whanoaee», December 16.-^Arrived: Wai taki and Gleneig, from Auckland, 6.30 a.m.

Ghkymouth, December 15. — Arrived: Herald, from Onehunira. 8.30 a.m. New Plymouth, December IS. — Hawea, from Mannkau, 7.8 a.m. Port Chalmers, December 21. — Sailed: Janet Niccol, for Ly ttolton, 4.15 p.m. W.uTAn.», December 21.—Sailed: Galrloch, for Oaahunga, 7.53 p.m. Tho Talnul at Port Chalmers. Fort Ciialmehb, this day.—The as. Tainui. from Plymouth, briDga 3,100 tons cargo for all eons, and 386 passengers, of whom 69 are for Otago, 14 for Canterbury. 66 for Wellington. 72 for Auckland. 13 for Napier, 1 for Nelson, 1 for Groymouth, 3 for New Plymouth, 1 for West- Hnd, 7 for Hawko'B Bay, 8 for Invercargil, and 97 immigrants for all ports. The passengers bave enjoyed excellent health, neither births nor deaths having taken place On November 11, Thomas Bralm, A.8.. whilst assisting to secure the cover oc a winch, was washed airainat the windlass and received Internal Injuries, from which he died, on December 17th. The Tainui left Plymouth at 1.30 p.m. on November 7th, and arrived Teneriffe at 6.30 am. on the 32th. Left same day, and retched Cape Town at 2.12 p.m. on the Kith. Left again name day, fend arrived at Hobait at 11.15 a,m. on the 17th Inst. Sailed at 5 p.m., and reached Otago Heads at S a.m. on the 21st, Crossed the bar at noon. Total time from Plymouth to Heads. 13 days 4 rkoura 10 minutes; total steaming time, 12 days 3 hours 20 minutes. The Northern passengers leave this evening by the Kotorua and Graf ton. Port Chalmekb, this day.—Arrived : Anna, Darquentine. 11 days from Mauritius. She Drags 10,790 packages sugar for Duncdin. Atiuelte, bariuentine, with 300 tons sugar from PortMaokay, N.8.W., SO days. Being from in fcolUKuj port she waaiiuarantined. Nt: i> (>

COMMERCIAL.

Kvbnino Star Offloe. this day. Messrs. E. & 11. Isaacs held a sale of Japanese curiosities t l-day. Ihe mart was crowded, but bidding was not brisk, and some of the artlolos wero nold at low figures. The sale was not con eluded in time for a more extended report in tho present Issue. Mr. R. C. Greinwood sold a number of f jr lelted Moanataiari shares to-day at 7s each.

Notices to Correspondent.

R.H. (Naoier-strest).—Mr Gladstino married Catherine, oldest daughter of Sir Stephen Richard Glynne, Bart. Melbourne Cur.—Martini-Henry's time for tho Melbourne Cap was 3mln. SOJsec.

Births.

BINES.—On Friday. December 18! at hor resi dence, G'aham-'trett, Auckland, N.Z, tho wife of William F. Bines of a daughter. Both doing well. London papers please copy.

Marriages.

ThOMSON-GOULD.-On December 18, at tho residence of the bride's father, John Sinclair Thomson, Esq, of the National Bsnk. to Annie, third daughter ot George Gould, Ecq , of Humbledon, Chrigtchuroh. MAOUATTIK-CUMMING.-On Nov. 4, 1885, at Auckland, John Klchard Gordon, eldest son of the late Thomas Milne Machattle, to Bliza Dodds. eldest daughter of Mr John Gumming. Australian and Home papers ploase copy. .

Deaths.

Mo MUMMING--On December 21. at Newton Hoal, X izabeth Uampboll, infant daughter of W. McSkimmlng. HENNKLLEY.-On November 1, at Victoria, Britlth Columbia, of erysipelaj, Michael, Be.-ond son of tho late Michael Honnelley, Esq., T. C. and P. L. G., Aihenry, Ireland. Requicscat in pace. ■ . ; ■

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

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1885.

For the 'cause that lack* nssiotance, For tho wrong that: needs resistance, For the future in the diattnee, And the .good that we can do.

Mb Arthur Clavden, who liaa gained some notoriety in England by a aeries of extravagant letters on New Zealand, .has met with his reward. Mr Clayden arrived in Auckland by the Hawea on Sunday, and we understand that he is making a-preliminary tour of the colony, preparatory to leaving for the Home country as an agent accredited by the nVw;: Zealand Government..to promote, emigra tion to 'this coldriy; .' Wa Bhould like very much to ccc the terms of this contract; and still more to know what qualifications have recommended Mr Clay den to the favour pf the Minister for Lands arid Immigration. If an. itching to rush into print with' blatherskite letters is a re commendation, no doubt the appointment is an admirable one ; but the emigrant'who came to Hew Zealand on the faith of some of MrClayden'sblowhard effusions Wouldhavea very good cause of action against the Go vernment. Extravagant and ill-digested statements do the colony no good; and they will be. more reprehensible when pub lished on the authority of a Government agent than if'circulated by a gentleman who h now pretty well-known for an in ordinate and insatiable eagerness to see his name in print, There would seem from this appointment, however, to be more method in Mr Clayden's madness than in that of other victims of that editor-afflicting malady, caccethes scribendi. Mr Clayden has writton to some purpose-a snug billet —and though cautious people may tremble for Mew . Zealand when the redoubtable Arthur Clayden becomes its representative spokesman, there is an appropriateness in the appointment at a moment when the floating .of rainbow-hued soap bubbles is the officially authorised pastime. Apart from the selection of this agent, we may fairly inquire what the services ex pected of him are. Is it supposed that he will, by native artfulness, lure to New Zea land philanthropic capitalists, who will come to share our d6bt and taxation ; or will his mission take him among the horny handed for the purpose of drawing them out to swell the'ranks of the unemployed ? Part of Mr Clayden's object in coming up to Auckland ia to consult with big land proprietors who are anxious to cut up blocks for disposal to English investors. Is, there any special reason why this work should not be carried on aa before by their own 'i private agents instead of under the aegis of bhe Government of the colony? Wo shall

be rather surprised if, when the truth leaks out, thoro is not discovered at the bottom eoine scheme to pay part of tho passages of agriculturists with a certain amount of capital. Well, that is hotter than flooding ; tho colony with people who are a charge on the ■Qovornment for subsistence from the moment of landing; but still we ore dis trustful of the "capitalists" who will accept State aid for their transportation. The very nature of tho bait is Buch us to oxcito suspicion. What aio 1 did the worthy pioneers who braved the hardships of a five months' voyago and laid the founda tions of this colony ask for or receive from the State? Has the race run out, or aro our necessities bo great that we must sot up spurious attractions in order to tempt peoplo to come and share our lot? If these small capital ists have tho grit in thorn to succeed, and the intelligence to discover where Naturo has combined the largest number of eleinonts of success, they will come to Now Zealand without Mr Clayden's puffing, and without asking the people of this colony to pay their fare; and if they have not the energy and faculty for success, wo certainly do not want men out to squander their little capital on work they aro unfitted for. Tho best way to populate New Zealand with storling intelli gent men is to circulate through every library and farmors' club in the United Kingdom tho facts relating to the high average ratio of agricultural pro duction and the facilities for obtaining land. If this is done energetically by the Agent-Goneral, we shall- not stand still for lack of a steady stream of self-conveyed emigrants who will neither owe their presence in the country to State aid nor blame the Governmont of the colony if the reality should fall below their anticipations.

Tho Marquis of Hartington has writton denying all knowlodge of tho reported Glad stonian scheme of Irish reform, and assorts that his views remain unchanged. Lord Hartington U the acknowledged leader of the Conservative Liberals or Whigs, and the trouble be has taken to deny what wai never charged against him confirms our surmise that if Mr Gladstone has adopted the moans attributed to him of lay ing his scheme before the country, ho has been greatly influenced by the knowledge that he could not hold his party together, and in order that if office ia thrust upon him there can bo no mis understanding regarding his opinions on a question which will compel immediate at tention, If a majority of tho newly-eloctcd Parliament are anxious to resist tho demands for Home Kule in Ireland, they have the option of keeping Lord Salisbury in office. The Marquis of Hartington holds that it would be sheer madness to give Ireland any extended form of Local Governmont, and his viows woro so largely shared by members of the late Gladstone Ministry that there is now little reason to doubt that the threatened resig nation of three Radical members on tho Irish question had much to do with tho singular defeat of the Cabinet, which, if not deliberately courted, might easily have been avoided.

Tho Licensing Bench, under tho Slaughterhouse Act, sat today for the pur pose of hearing and determining applica tions for new licenses and renewals. Chair man, 11. G. Seth Smith, Esq., R.M.; Jus tice?, Messrs P. L. Primo and Wm. McCul lough; clerk, Mr J. B. Stoney. The follow ing applications were heard, "Mr S. Hosketh appearing for applicants : - Enoch Wood, district of Mount Albert; George Hulme, Mount Wellington ; and Frozen Meat Com pany. As no objections wero offered, the applications wero gi anted.

The reckless mannor in which buphmeu "knocked" down their cheques on the occa sion of tho Mercury Bay Regatta was truly alarming. When tho steamer left for Auckland on Saturday night it eoomed as if half tho inhabitants wore drunk, nnd intoxicated pooplo wore to be seen sprawl ing at evory turning. Thoro aro throo public houses within a few hundred yards of each other, and they did a roaring trade all day, the local policoman being power loss to proventwholesalodrunkonness. This is what tho bushmen call having a " jolly good time."

The next criminal sessions of tho Supremo Court open on the sth January, 1880, the following being tho list of cases sot down for hearing: -Matuakore, breaking and en tering ; John Considino and Jeremiah Drie coll, assault and robbery; Thomas Dodd and Kichard Bowden, malicious injury to property; William Bannott, forgery; ditto, forging and uttering; Edward Lewis, forgery ; Georgo Kawson, larceny ; John William Henry Subritzky, larceny; William Hanlon, unlawfully wounding; John Meehan, attempted raps; Harry Johnstone, alias Harry P. Glossor, breaking out of premises; Arthur Dewson, unlaw fully wounding; John Wilson, Douglas ..gwirenage, and Arthur Slanoy, forcible ■ etdmf atßotorua; Edward Downing, arson; itlkwrt John Fisher, passing counterfeit cam (three charges)

A new system for tho more rapid delivery •f ■"delayed" telegrams comes into forco in this colony on 2nd January noxt.

During the final rehearsal of "Tho Messiah " last evening at the Choral I lull, tho members of the Auckland and Poneonby Choral Societies presented Herr Schmitt with a handsome timepiece in a crystal case, accompanied with tho following inscription : —"Horr Carl Schmitt, from tho perform ing members of the Auckland and Ponaonby Choral Societies. Christmas, ISSS." The gifts to Madame Schmitt comprised a heind eoine fan and piece of olectroplate. The presentation was made by Mias Whitakor, assisted by Mr J. B. Gilfillan. In respond ing, Uorr Schmitt congratulated tho mem bers on tho success ol tho past year, and concluded by wishing all a " Merry Christ mas and a Happy New Year."

Yesterday the tram-cars were running on tho newly-laid soction up Welleslcy-stroet East,' and along Symondsstroet to Kyber Pass.

;The choir of St. John's Church, Pon eonby, have for some weeltß past been re hearsing tho sacred cantata, "The Nativity," supplemented by other appro priate items published by Vincent, Nonollo, and Co. The performance will take place on tho evening of Christmas Day, ns adver tised, and from its appropriateness to tho day and the well known success of the choir's past concerts, should draw a full houso.

On Sunday evening the usual eorvice of the Qospol Temperance Mission, hold in the Protestant Hall, Karangahapo Road, was conduced by the ladies connected with tho Women's Christian Temperance Union, The hall was crowded with attentive listeners, numbers standing. The choir was very efficient, both numerically and musically. Suitable addressee were givon by Mra Hutchinson, Miss Belford, and Mrs Brame. A special Christmas service will be hold on the evoning ot Christmas Day.

Admiral' Tryon, thß officers of H.M, Nelson, and Colonel Whitmore, are ex pected to be present at the production of " The Messiah " at the Choral Hall tonight.

A case of typhoid fever on Parnell Rise was reported to the City Sanitary Inspector yesterday, and by him forwarded to tho Mayor of Parnell.

; The Brighton Minstrels gavo a very successful entertainment in the Newmarket Hall last evening, tho hall being full. The first part of the programme consisted of the " nigger" chair business, made up of tho following items-.—Ballads by Messrs A. Cosson, J. G. Lecky, snd W. Brown, and comic songs by Messrs A. Hughes and J. Cosson (encored). This was followed by the finale "Brannigan's Band," with Mr J. Cosson as the drum major. The .second part of the programme consisted of comic songs by J. A. Adler, double son? and dance by A. Hughes and G Austen, ballad by A. Cosson, character song by W, Cole, clog dance by G. Austen, and double sailor's hornpipe by A. Hughes and B. Doble, each piece being encored. The farce " Gymnasium," by Messrs A. Hewson, J. Coason, and A, Coeson, brought the entertainment to a closo. The hall was then cleared, and dancing was kept up till an early hour this morning. Out of respect to Constable Graham, who was dangerously ill from the kick of a horse, the Newmarket Band refrained from playing outside the hall.

The Famale Prison Gate Brigade report for the week ending December 20th, JBBS, shows that no inmates were received into the Home during that period. Left the Home, 1; remaining in Home, 5; No. of beds given 36 ; No. of ae»ls supplied, 108. Donations in bread : Messrs, Wilson, Evans, and Buchanan and Lestor. Butter and eggs: Mrs Meredith, Bemuera. Vege tables : Friend, Onehunga. Milk : Devon shire Dairy, London Dairy, Meat: Messrs Garrett, Burton, and Friend. Glass, etc. : Messrs Boylan and Tanfield. Money: ■Wm. Thorne, Esq., £2; Henry Barton, Esq., £1 ; J.K., £1 ; Thank Offering, £2 j Friend, Onehunga, 10s. We still require £14 to carry on the work to end of Janu ary, Donations will be thankfully received and acknowledged by Robert Fryy Treasurer, Shortland-s'treet, or F, W. Boynton, Secre tary, Fort-street.—Hester Liddei,, Matron in Charge.

To tho Editor : Sir,—Can you inform mo what we ratepayers in Victoria-street have done to be denied the pleasure of the hose playing in our street, aB well as on the more favoured Queen-streot. Our shops and our throats are quite as dear to us as to others, considering tho elevation of this royally named place. Clothed in a royal dust mantlo, a little damping would do it no harm, especially when the wind is flirting round tho corners, and we have tb keep our doors half closed and our lips tightly pressed to prevent ourmorchandiee from being spoilt and ourselvos smothered. Hoping that the City Council will tako stops to remedy it a little and prevent us from gnashing our teeth and using languago wholly unfitting tho holy season.approaching,—l am, &c, One of the HalfOuokkd Sufferers.

His Worship the Mayor; the Town Clerk, the Chairman and Secretary of the Har bour Board, with the Harbour Master?, paid an official visit to Admiral Tryon, tho commandor and officers of H.M.B. Nelson this morning, and were very cour teously received. The admiral expects to bo hero about a week, and the ship will be open to visitors during its stay,

The Auckland Scripture Gift Association has done a great amount of good in diffus ing a knowledge of Holy Writ by circulat ing copies of the Scriptures amongst young people, and in the diffusion of moral and religious literature in the suburbs and dis trict of Auckland. The committee now ask for special Christmas donations towards the extension of the good work in fields where tho Society's operations have net yet boon felt, particulars of which are described by advertisement.

To the Editor : Sir,—l beg to point out tho inconsistency of new chum Bingle men (of only a few days' arrival in tho colony) being provided with tho unemployed relief works that have boon ostensibly started for tho relief of tho necessitous unemployed,par ticularly the married with families. It is to bo hoped that this work will not bo looked on by the new chums as a standard wage's job, and grabbed by men who can pay £1(> to the shipping companies for pas sages to this country of an already over stocked labour market.—l am, etc., ACok stant Subscriber to tiik "Stah."

Rev. S. Macfarlane, on account of the statoof his health, has been compelled to resign editorial functions in connection with the " Leader" nowspaper, and the directors of that journal are now seeking a man to fill the position, l h, is stated in last issue of the paper that the man for the placo " must have a soul, a liberal mind, and a largo hoart, and all hia wita about him." "Tho Loader" ia to appear in an enlarged form this week.

The handicaps aro announced for Cam bridge athletic sports, and we observe that in the two mile walking match, D. McCavo ia placed at scratch, whilo Goodman has 25 yards and H, Cartor 75 yards start. Them are in ail eloveu contestants, and the handi caps go up to 160 yards. For tho Cam bridge Cup of 100, 250, and 400 yards, there are 16 entries, M. Monnock scratch, whilo the handicaps rango from three to 30 yards. D. Craig is placed at scratch in the 440 yards hurdlo raco, mile race, and half mile raco, and tho number of competitors and arrangomont of handicaps givopromiso of exciting contests.

In tho old Baptiat Chapol, on Sunday afternoon, Mr E. 8011, architect, delivered a lecture on "Tho Antiquity of Man,"' under tho auspices of the Society for Pro moting Christian Knowledge Key. J. S. Hill presided, and thero was a largo audi enco of men. Tho lecture took the form of an array of authorities against tho thoory that immense periods of timo had elapsed since tbo appearance of man upon tho earth, and it was alternately geological, archio ological, and philosophical. It was, how ever, too long, and after listening for an hour and a quarter tho majority of tho audience (being presumably converted from tho " long period of timo" doctrine) gavo unoquivocul signs of impatience by calls of 11 Time," and Mr 801 l reluctantly broke off in tho middle of his argument. A short and not always rolevant discussion ensued, and the meeting closed with a voto of thanks to tho locturor. Disappointment was ex pressed by somo who had gone in tho ex pectation of hearing Mr Hill lecturo on " The Ago of Reason," but that gentleman nnuounccd that hie lecture would " keep."

Tho pupild of tho Marist Brothers' School giro an entertainment consisting of drama, farce, and concert, under the direction of tho Brothers, at tho Forestora' Hall, Newton, to-morrow ovoniDg, An ad dress will, bo prcßontCid to Hi? Lord ship Bishop Luck by tho pupils, and Mil's Shanaghan has kindly offereu torenctr assistance. Shoehan's Band will aleo bo in attendance, and it is hoped that the friendi of the young people will bo fproeont in force.

In anticipation of tho performance of "ThoMeetiah"to-night, "Monitus" writes: " Sir, —Tho Choral Society's performance of "The Messiah " to-night will perhaps be tho noarest rendering of ar.y of those hitherto givon in Auckland, thanks to tho careful interpretation of tho prosont con ductor. Throughout tho Christian world, this wonderful production will be presented by tho zealous application of each musical community at those Christma3 holidays. It is admitted by all mueicul authorities that HanJol, in "The Mossiah," has not only thrown at un innumerable distanco all who preceded and followed him, but roached the highest sublimity to which tho musical capacity it" capable of attaining, even tho in spired Mozart contributing his onergies toil lustrate tbedivino work by additionalaccom- panimonts. Members and contributors here, for a series of years, have attondod this cacred presentation in the same spirit that has influenced their attendance at their re spective places of worship. Nevertheless, after each performance ot " Tho Messiah " complaints havo always been rifo on every sido that open cbattcrings and uneoomly whisperings of occupants of neighbouring eeats, hero and there, havo absolutely pre cluded any devotional attontion to tho choir. Complaints of another objectionable element in the assemblage of subscribers at this soason aro in tho emanation of vulgar applause, by clapping of hands, and it is hopod that all those subscribers who bavo no appreciation of the oratorio will paes their tickets of admission to those who havo."

Fekls Youno AflAiN.—"My mother wai afflicted a long time with neuralgia and a dull, heavy, inactive condition of the wbolo Byatom. headache, nervous prostration, and was almost helpless. No physloians or medicines did hor imy gpod. Three months ago sho began to use Hop Bitters, with such good oflfcot that eho eoerna and feels young again, although ovor lovonty yeara old."-A Liny in R. I. Look up

The Meeting of residents in Alma Place Ponßonby, called for this evening at ■ Poosonbr Hall, is unavoidably postponed for a week, at the same honr and plnoo.

TABLE TALK.

H.M.S. Nklson arrived. Sir Julius Vogel is still poorly. Fresh water baths opened. " Messiah " in the Choral Hall to-night. Tho Premier addresses his constituents to-morrow- Work is being found for the unemployed at Napier. ' . There are now 64 children in tho Parnoll Orphan Home. Redomptorist Fathers start,a misßion at St. Patrick's on Sunday. Tho thermometer registered 114 in the sun at Christchurch yesterday. English robins and othor birds imported in crowds by the Tai'ini. Hon, Mr Tolo is visiting the'gaols of Otago, while Hon. Mr Buckley is "doing " the asylums. ' Local Option voting at Avondale on Sat urday resulted in a majority against the increase of pnblicjhonao licenses. Dr. Nedwill's etables at Christchurch with several vehicles were destroyed by fire on Saturday night last. • Christmas Star Suppiajikki in prepara tion ; original and interesting matter. A young man named \Vm. Carter, has been drowned while bathing at Lawrence, Otago. There are 338 fhmates in Whau Asylum, one having been discharged during the week. Big bush fire raging at. Takapau, Hawke's Bay ; mill and houses destroyed. Mr HamliD, M.H.R., referring to the North Island Main Trunk Railway lobd, does not believe that Sir Julius Vogel will date to divert the money from its original purpose. A slight gas explosion, by which damage to the extent of about £)5 was done, occurred last night in Montaguo's fancy bazaar Dunedin. New romance of "Hand and Ring" in Canterbury. Tourists are arriving in large numbers at Rotorua. " lUui t< ated Titbit g " the bast companion for the holidays, Auckland Benevolent Society still in danger of collapse. Sculling match arranged between A. Whits and E. Bailey for £100 and the championship.

WBLMNGTOS. this fifty. At the R.M. Court this morning Frank McDowell, of Blenheim was charged with having, between Nov. sth and Dec. 17th, stolen a lot of drapery and clothing valued at £676, the property of Jas. McDowell, of Wellington, Accused was remanded till Jan. 12th.

A DEAD MAN'S HAND.

Mysterious and Susplolous Discovery,

On Wednesday lost a mild sensation was created by the news that a ghastly dis covery had been made of a dead man's bind on tho beach near Sumner, Canter bury.' the "find" was made by Blisha, Godfrey, a storokoepor in the district, but very little was thought of tho occurrence— tho local journals giving only a short para graph about.it. . Tho iand, ..which was.a left on, was not at all decomposed, and eeeincd to.hayo'been snapped or broken f rc'in ' a body. A day later came tho tidings that . a ring on the hand had boon identified as having be longed to a man named HoWohL, a workman in Addington Uailway Work shops, who bad goDo in to batho at Sumner on 10th October, and had never returned to his home. It was significantly added that Howard's life waß insured for £2,400, but oven with that hint very fow people imagined that a deeply-laid plot to defraud perhaps even a more heinous crime—was about to be discovered.

Suspicion was, however, aroused in some parties by tho fact that a man earning 10s a day should have boon so hoavilv insured. The insurance companies, naturally, would not pay without proof, and a reward of £50 was offered by liia widow for tho body of hor husband. Two months passed away, and tho matter was almost forgotten. Howard had apparently dis appoared from this mortal Btago, loaving only his clotheß behind him; but tho discovery of tho "hand and ring" last week aroused all tho old suspicions, and suggested a perfect romance of crime. Tho band pickod up at once became an object of intense interest. It was taken to the police station and preserved in spirits, Aftor preliminary examination, a plaster cast was taken, ten doctors were called in, and, liko doctors, they disagreed. One medical gentleman believes that it presents exactly the appearance of a lipb bitten o(f by a shark, tho bones being splintered and ragged, and the edgos slightly water-worn. Others have aseertod their belief that it is not a man's but a woman's hand. It is, however, positively alleged that tho dead hand picked up has a scar on it corresponding to tho mark of a wound made on Howard's left hand by a chisel. All kinds of wild rumours of con spiracy have been in circulation, and it is hinted that probably some grave has been opened, and its occupant mutilated in order to supply a hand. As tho rosult of inquiries madd by tho polico, tho man who found tho hand, along with his brother, Frederick Godfrey, a cook employed at tho Sunnyside Lunatic Asylum; wore arrested late yesterday aftor noon under a charge of conspiring to defraud the Government Insurance Depart ment of £1,000, the Mutual Life Association of Australania of £1,000, and the Accident Insurance Company of £400, thoso sums representing tho amounts for which Howard had been insured in tho respective companies. The polico aro reti cent as to tho particulars which have in duced them to tako this action; but tho natural inference, as to the theory of tho police, is that tho hand which Elisha Godfroy picked up is not Howard's hand at all, but that of somo other doad por eon, and that it was " planted " with the knowledge of tho two Godfreys, who may bo presumed to have actod in col lusion with Mrs Howard. In justice to the accused it should bo stated, how ever, that no proof of this thoory has been forthcoming. '..The inquest on the hand was held last night, when Mrs Howard and tho insurance officers were all present, and represented by counsel. Inspector Tender said it had beon agrood between the partios interested to adjourn tho inquiry for throe weeks. Tina was accordingly done, bu|i Id the meantime the Godfreys will be brought before the Magistrate's Court, and possibly somo more light will bo thrown upon this very complicated case.

Arrest of Mrs Howard,

: This morning Alra Howard was arrested for conspiring to defraud tho Government, the Mutual Life, and tho Accident As surance Company in connection with the severed hand mystery. She and the two Uod'reys were brought up at the B.M. Court and remanded for 8 days, no evidence bsiDg taken.

POLICE COURT.-THIS Day.

(Uoforo Messrs H. 0. Soth Smith, K.M., L. Khronfried, J.H, and C, D. Wlittoombe, J.P.) Application.—HdgarOoopor was charged with failing to contribute towards the sapoort ot his illoßitimao child, of which Mary E, Koloy is the irothcr.—Mr Th?o. Coop?r appeared for tho de fendant, and Mr Napior for tho proseontinn. It appeared from the ovidenoe that defendutit i>i employed as a compositor by the ' Poverty Bay Herald "at 30a per wonk. be pleaded inability to pay.-An ordo.r waa mado for the payment of Ts Ul per week acd costs.

(Bci^ro Mossra Khrcntriod and Whitcornba.) DhUNKKNNKSB.—Six poraonß were punished for this oll'onoo.

Their votiikimn LAW.-Mary DriscoU was oharged with using obscene language in Orey i troot —Mosfrj Kolly and feoager, tho sore-in law of tho accused, gave ovidenco of the lan guage used. Thoy wero conatantly subjected to* this sort of thing, and the nulsanoo to them was ]nolorablo.—Constablo Macky aleo gavo ovl. donee, ot the disgrcoeful behaviour of the prisnnor - tievon days' ImpiUonmont with hard labour.

Allkuku Assault.—Kdward McCahoy was chnrfted with assaulting Margaret Knight by Mrikln t bo- on tho oyo and face reueatedlr.acd knocking her down.—Accused, who was de fended by Mr Maddon, pleaded not guilty.— Mxi Thco. Cosper prosecuted, and in oponinu tho cSe i aid the aasault was one, of a very aggravated character.—Margaret Kn igtit wai called, and de posed thiil ehe went to McCahoy's last Thurad&y to call for il yonna lady friend—Kate Keanedy. Mrj McCahoy eald she was not there, bat Bba heard the girl col-ing out to her that sao was there, and asking witness to got her out. Mrs MoCahey then invited hei in. and when Bhe got inside, young McCahoy struck Mrs Kennedy, nnd then squarod up to her. Ho struck her on tho eye and on other patts of the body, and knocked her dowp. Mrs McCahey oallea out to hor son, "Oivo It to heiViEddio; give It to her, Kddie. because sbo has shown your father up about hor monoy." The witness displayed on eyo in deep mourning, an arm and hand badly ewolen and Inflamed, and other injuries. Under cross-examination, witness .denied throwing n fug of ashes.in accused's face, but edtnlttel that tho had' - a jug of siwdust. Accused broke tho jng alter ehn throw the puwdnst in his eyes. Sho gol the eawdug'. for tho purpose of filling pin cushion?.— Ka'o Konnody gave corroboraUva evidence. This was tho caio for the proaeou tion. AcoDsud whs called, and clouted having deliberately struck Mrs Knight either l'rsldoo'r outside tho house. His father told him to pnt hor out, and when ho proceeded to pußh her throw a jug of sawdust in his face, and also a ban of aehoß at him. He pushed her out. but didnot strike hor, fho mlghthavo fallen when Bhe Rot. outside. She broke several panes bf guv b with her hand outside.—Henry Ewnos nnd Joseph McCahoy aleo gave evidence. The Bonoh hold that ths ovidonco did not bear out the fact of the essault, and considered that no nnduo violence was ujed In putting defendant* out Cbso dismissed.

By-laws. — Honry Gamont, charged wilh driving round a corner at olhor than a walking paoe, ploadoj iot guilty. Messrs Parker ana Adatmon deposed that accused was driving negligently along in tho vicinity of the New Zealand Timber Company's mill, when hla boree knocked a child down. Mr SUva, on Uib othT hand, said tho pace was between a walk and a trot Fined 10a and coats.-Matbew Mil ton {leaded guilty to a oharge of oansingan obstruction in Queon-streof by plaoing a stage tncvaon. Tho contracting carpenter hud a per b.iirbntthojob was not completed wlthln^the «pedSad time. Sergeant Pratt said tho permit wiih for an oxnnvation. Fined 6a and coats. • > Nkiohbouks' QttARREXS — Mrs McGulrewoa Charged with using insulting language towards Elizabeth Davis.—Mr Napier, for defendant. said that when Mr MoGulro heard of the caao.ho buat hla wife in a most Inhuman manner, and aha was.now nndor medical treatment, She had a^kod him to apply for a remand, although ho hart not coEsontod to defend her.—Mrs MoQuire had gono with tho intention of Bottling the case. but ho had no authority to. do bo.—Mr Theo Cooper for plaintiff opposod the application, as defendant was In Court this morning.—Appli cailon wao grantod, accused to pay costs. - Payment ok Wages.—John Bleohynden did not appear In answer to a charge ot falling to Say £48, wages duo to Samuel Tiller.— Ir James Ruesell appeared for defendant.— Evidenoo haying been takon, an order for the payment of tho mosey wob made. * i

The Auckland Summer Meeting.

Some good woik «ua done at Ellerslie this morning. Stoneyhurst.Nolson.and Wapiti, were brought out on the course proper.evi dently with the intention of doing a strong gallop, but Wapiti bolted, and the boy could not pull, him up before, he went four times round, StoneyburstL was then sent round alono, when Nelson joined him, and the pair put in some strong work, Major George's horse appearing to have the best of it. Taeman went twice round at a good swinging - pace, and Cbaafe sent Turquoise, Necklace, Derringer and Radames (in company) about two miles Btrongly. Foul Shot, with Libeller for a companion, wenttwice round, coming home fast, and Tetford put in a good ones round Woodnymph and Revolver did threo ouarter speed work, and the hurdle racer Kingask put in one of the best rounds of the morning. Refrigerator went twice round steadily, and Salvage, after going onco round at medium pace, was rattled along for a fast mile, Tho prices on the principal events wero called over at Tattersall's last night, but the ■ only business transacted was the acceptance of 100's to 4 about Torpedo for the ('up. The leading prices on offer were: —100 to 28 Stoneyhurst; 100 to 30 Tasman ; 100 to 12 Waitiri; 100 to 10 Turquoise and Necklace; 100 to 7 Capsize ; 100 to 6 Refrigerator. For the Steeplechase, 500 to 70 was wanted about Shotover, and 100's to 5 wero wanted Caoutchouc. Kingask waa quoted favourite for tho Hurdles at 2 tol.

Mr <T. 0. Evett declared the following weights last night in connection with the mooting :—

CnBiSTMAB Handicap, 1 mile and a quarter.

Acceptances for both the above races ore due to-morrow (Wednesday) evening., Lochiel was' backed at Tattersall's last night to win tho Dunedin Cup for all the money available at 100 to 8 and 100 to 10. Mr Evott's allotment of the weights for tho Christmas Handicap and Hurdles has given a lot of dissatisfaction among local sporbmon. Complaints are loud and wide at the lonient treatment awarded Kingask and Macaroni in the jumping race. From a private letter rocoived from Cbristchurch we loam that " Robin Hood " has sold his hairdressing and tobacconist establishment, and at once leaves for Sydnoy to carry on hia business. "Robin Bood " intends going over via Auckland. In answer to "Inquirer," wo have to etato that the 'chaser Medico, at present in Auckland, was formerly known as Warren's Black Doctor (not Armitat»e'e), The latter is the well-known South Island' porformer, while Medico hails from the Marlborough district. ..:,.. ,;..-,

Mangawharo Raoos.

The following weights have been issued : Bushman's Haweiuap, 1J mllo.—Smko. Bjt IMb; Tiger. Bst 81b; Nannio, 7ot Hlb; Tra veller 7at 91b; Zip, 7et fllb; VVyatt ForbOß, 7at Sib; Glencoe, 7tt. Settlsk's Handicap, l\ milo.—Yankee, Oat; Snako. Bat; Nunmo, 7s : Traveller, 6st 101b; Gloncoo, 6st; Ixion, oat 71b.

Te Kooti's Visit to the East Coast.

(ii? TELKGUAPH.—rRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Napier, this day. Mr J. H. BitowNE, Chairman of Wairoa County, forwarded yesterday,a telegram to the Native Minister, urging him to take moasuroß to atop tho further progress of To Kooti towards Poverty Bay via Wairoa. The greatest alarm exists at Wairoa, for although fully half of the natives are pre pared to welcome To Kooti, the other half are hostile, and it is feared that if anything goes wrong retaliation will bo made on the sottlere. An impression prevails that To Kooti is going into tho lion's den.

ACCIDENT TO TAUPO COACH.

Driver and Passengers Badly Hart.

[by teleukAph—nißss association.]

Napier, Monday.

A BKiuovß accident to tho Taupo coach occurred, this afternoon. Going down tho Bteop cutting to the Mohaka Hiver the coach cavsized. No further particulars arc to hand except that tho tlrlviT, Griffiths, is reported nearly dead, and several passongors seriously injured. Medical assistance has boon sent "up.

NEWTON BOROUGH COUNCIL.

The seoond meeting of the above body waa held laEt evening in Bt, Georgo'a Hall, Grea North Road. Present: Tho Mayor (Mr R. T. War nock), .Messrs Blllingtpn, Morrison, Buckley, Hastintrs. Gordon; Laing.1 Prime, Rlpgs, and Loe. The lettera wore dca't with as follows. - From thetynaer-Seorotary, Wollinßton, acknow ledging: the elcolibn of. Mayor. From J. H. Jouninst,swtgOßtiDK"tho appointmoDt of W. J. Murray as pound-kecpcr-Conslderationi do rerred. From It. Hollaby, applying for a ro nowal of the license to his slaughterhouse within tho borough, In termn ot tbe Slaughterhouses Aot—Referred to . the Flnanco Committee, From Kdwln Stpokloy nppljlngfor a license to roniovo nighteoil In tho borough—Consideration doferred.vThe Town Clerk was authorised to pay Mr MartelU for services rendered during tho elofltton. Tho Seal Committee reported no doslgns had yet been forwarded. The' Town (Jlerk was lnstruotod to communicate with Mr Bporry, Property Tax Commissioner, re tho subsidy dno to tho borough uodor the Local Bodies and Borough Councils' Finance Act. Mr Gordon gave notice of motion, "That the Counoil at its next meeting take into oonaldera tlou the question of a drainage and watar supply Bchome for lho borough." The Inspector of Nuisances waa inßtruotcd to report upon an allestod nuisanoe in Pol'en-Btreet, i Tho Counoil then adjourned.

Interprovincial Cricket.

CiiKiSTCHuncii, this day.-Tho folio wint; have been choaon to represent Canterbury ugninst Otngo on Dccombor 26th and 28th:—E. P Barnes, E. J. Cottcrill, \V. J. Cotterill, W J. Crawshaw, D. Dunlop, J. Fowko. A. Longdcn, H. H. Loughnan, W. V. Milton, G. Rnvner F Wilding. .

CABLEGRAMS.

[by electric telegraph.—copyright.]

Threatened Strike iv Melbourne.

[UECTEK'S TELEGRAMS.]

(Received Dec. 22-12.45 p.m.) Meluoukne, this day. The dispute between Melbourne wharf labourers and ship-owners remains un- Bettled. It ia possiblo that an arrange ment may be come to to-day, othorwiso the men, to the number of 400, will go out on

strike,

THE IRISH QUESTION.

Tho Marquis of Hartlngton's Attitude

(BY CABLE— COPYRIGHT.)

London, December 21, A letter appears in the "Times" this morning from the Marquis of Hartington stating that ho is absolutely without infor mation with regard to the schemo of Irish reform suggosted as omanating from Mr Gladstone. Lord Hartington adds that his views on the Irish question are unchanged.

The Afghan Frontier Dispute.

(Special to Press Association.)

Lokdon, December 21. (Roceived December 220d—2.15 p.m.) A DisroTK has arisen between the members of tho Anglo-Ruasian Afghan Frontior Com mission relative to the control of certain pasturages on tho proposed frontier.

TURKEY AND BULGARIA.

(liV CAJJLK—COPYRIGHT.)

CoNSTANUNOi'jiB, December 21. The Commission appointed by the Sultan for the purpose of defining the Bulgarian- Servian frontier has arrived at the boun dary to the countries, and will commence its labours forthwith.

THE CARPENTERS' STRIKE.

Tun men employed on Heron's job at Groen wood's buildings on the wharf did not turn out on strike as was expected. Accordingly, the matter was laid before the Committee, when a deputation was appointed to visit them. This was dono, and the men pro mised to striko at 12 o'clock. The Vigilance Committee patrolled round the Victoria Arcade to-day. Early in the morning, it was discovered that,two men had slipped in and commenced to work, This naturally caused somo excitement, and upon the matter being reported to tho General Committee, it was at onco reeolred that the names of the men be publicly advertised. The men who turned out etato that these two men who have given in so soon wore amongst the loudest in demanding' a strike and complaining about tho proposed reduction. It was definitely settled by the General Committee this morning that Mr Moss, M.H.K., tako . tho chair at the public meeting of the trade to be hold at, un oarly date. During this morning the General Committee received co:i.municftt.ious from various buildere assuring them of their pymparhy in their resistance of the reduction. Lator in the morning Mr Murphy, foreman at Messrs Mallendina'a buildings, Wolleßley-Btreot Eaat| decided to join the strike, although receiving tha full amount of wages. He took this action because by remaining on tho job he enabled the work to be carried on by men at 7a nnd Ss per day. This being pointed out to him by a deputation from the Committee, he at once responded by going out on strike. Mr Murphy's eeeiis a hard case, as he was forced to striko for a reduction. Three men loft Mallendice's buildings this morn ing. The meu engaged by Mr Heron failed to como out at 12 o'clock, although the deputation was waiting to receive them. At last ono man struck, and tho re mainder continued at work. It is said that bo frightened are these men that they hid themselves out of tho way of a second deputation that was sent to interview them, One of the "picketfr' stated that they scampered over the roof like rats run ning to their holes, About one o'clock nova was brought to the Committee that a man had started work on tho Art Gallery. Wo regret to learn that a number of the unemployed who promised to accept th« offer of the Waitemata County Council in connection with the road works at Waikomiti are still knocking about town. As the terms of the Council were very reasonable, these men lay them-, selves open to the suspicion that they belong to tho class "who are always looking for work and praying that they may not find it."

It will bo noticed by advertisement in .another column that a meeting of all the branches of the building trade will be held on Wednesday evening for the purpose of considering tho action of certain builders in reducing wages. Mr F. J. Mosb, M.H.R,, has consented to take the chair.

SERIOUS ACCIDENT.

Constable Thomas Graham, in charge of the Newmarket police district, met with a eerious accident yestorday afternoon, from which it is feared that he will not recover.

Mounted Constable Kelly ' and Constable Graham were riding from Epsom towards Newmarket, and when opposite Mr Dil worth's property Graham's horse became restive, and plunged violently. One of the stirrup leathers broke, and the unfortunate man was thrown violently to the ground, alighting on his head. He was picked up unconscious and conveyed to hia residence, when Dr. Coomand subsequently Dr. Mac mullen were sent for. It was discovered that Graham wag suffering from a fracture of tho base of the eknll,'aod bothdoctsrs held out but little hope of recovery. Be tween the time of the accident and eleven o'clock last night he lay in a state of coma, broken opce or twice by transitory returns to sensibility.

MASONIC INSTALLATION.

Tub annual installation of officers in con nection with Lodge Waitemata, 689, Eng lish Constitution, took place in the Free masons' Hall, Princes-street, last night There was a large attendance of brethren, and among the visitors were Bro. D.D.G.M. W. Lodder; Bro. T. Gamble, W.M. Lodge Remuera, E.C.rand his officars; Bro. Clark W.M. Lodge Prince of Wales, E.C, and his officers ; Bro, T. Walker, W.M. Lodge Eden, E.G., .and his officers; Bro. J. R.. Hanna, W.M. Lodge Am, I.C, and his officers, while representatives of Lodge Albion, E.C., Lodge St.; Andrew, J.C., and several visitors from Southern Lodges were also present. The Lodge was opened by the retiring Worshipful Master Bro. A, Wright, in tho first de gree, arid after some preliminary business had been disposed of, it was raised to tho third, and Bro, E. Augur was duly installed into the chair of King Solomon. Theonerous duties of Installing Master were performed by Bro. Wright, and Bros. W. A. Fentou and Hatswell acted as Directors of Cere monies. Substqucntlj', Bro. Augur, tho newly - installed W.M., invested his officers as follows :—Bro. Arthur V. Loddor, S.W.; Bro. Andrew Jackson, J.W.; Bro. J. L: Hatswoll, Treasurer; Bro. H. G. Wade, Secretary; Bro. Charles Grey, S.D.; Bro. C. Bagley, J.D.; Bro. A. Dye, Inner Guard ; Bro. J. Bott, S.S.; Bro. A. Suther land, J.S.; Bro. Burcher, Organist; and Bro. Tonge, Tyler. The charges to tho W,M. and Wardens were delivered by visiting Bro. Neylon, P.M. Tho Lodgo was., then lowered to the first defjrcb, and the congratulations of the visitors hiving been received, it was duly closed, and the brethren adjourned to the batiquetting room. A largo number of loyal and Masonic toasts were then duly honoured, the health of Bro. Augur, W.M., being proposed by Bro. A. Wright in flattering terms. The catering was in the hands of Bro. T. MoEwin, and it reflected the groatost credit on his cuisine.

To tho Editor; Sir,—Allow me to state tdat the wrestling match in tho Lorne etreet Ha!l did tako place on Saturday night, and that: I was an easy.victor.—l am, &c, Ahdbkw Polson,

OUR GOLDFIELDS

\VAio B ONao MAI .-T he the crushing O f 3^ J^Port,^ Tuesday. Water^^^o, battery, otherwise & i argM 'M °6 * % have been e^Jjfi? He haa Ml »ovi d Kam on hand, and MDervt "f 80'"^ return of 40o zs gold. "Pecta «» pa,» bu seeing colours of gold i n tC*Eet 'eport. Uu eS eH stuff have been TJT* «f 5 only 3dwts per ton. f >m \ P?oducb» MOANATAIW FivahunH^ t U mine werceold by aueti On S Br M« «« % was reeolved that the & n * I°%. it up voluntarily, 1 be appointed liquidator, n.'n cD»Wd about £1,100 in debt,' »i|u f t Co°PWyS £800 or £900 of unpaid caW «* peeted that the Bale of the* J? h«• The bullion for tGainn. T^' smelted, the result ftffiS •«»* this about 30 tons O f. q «ffi:^ ol

THAMES: ***»!

IKROMOUB^TO^R^^ Moanataim.— The crosscut at «, mediate level intersected \?Sil« a,tllt" this morning, and fataL&fe manager secured 121bs of ffi^"6 leaving gold still visible liffiL'H Jones, Iributer, obtained 39LJ "ft1, <>■ four loads of quartz, and Guthrie'.V ft"" of 9 tons yielded 15ozs. '""""tog HjMoanatauri. _ Williams' a^ V tribute*, in Moanataiari £ f y crushed 17 tone of onsrfT r ta" magnificent return of 3380zs «LiS ' l}* This is the result of about dSftffi •perationa. ■ — m ■*W Diamond (Karangahake).— An a. M 5J tons from this mih« eara ;fli»> w' * ■17g«. gold, and Sft^&X^ per ton. ; , . 8™'""» New Albcrsia. - The' cruehing J j fi leads g«neral dirt has yielded 4IOKL 6 School os MiXKs.-Tierei. tote .^' tested election for the Presidene?^isT School of Minea, Col. IraaeuTßT S Dr.. Ki^our, ex-Mayor^fife having both been nominated for tluZ1 *ion. _ Mr Kcnriok has been named u%.

SUSPICIOUS DEATH.

Body Pound la the WaUat^ tu^

Njjws has reached town ot the discover,",,* he body o£ some person unkiiowiK.%; kato River, in tho neighbourhood Um3& this morning. It is said that thfcKoflWr inayks of violence, and there arff ß S|nS foul play. The circumstances haW&* ported to Captain Jackson, R.M.. henSS to hold an inquest on tho remains UteStJSr The inquest was ultimately adioSTft morrow in order that Dr DtolfflSwA jtostmortem oxainuiationi . ■ ■ v^,,, T;

GREAT FIRES IN THE SOUTH.

INVEROAHGILL, thiiiftf 'l A disastrous flreoccurred at'fiiS& tween 2 and 3 o clock this monJnir MmlStoiT tho destruction of Bradmbre's™^ a«HS dwelling. Colonial Bonk building 'OTfaffi Bhop, and contents of Stadford^ltotfS ing and contents, and Eraser's bladuStJisW and toola. The lnsuranoes^tdtalltotfiaCf B itish. £1,120; Victoria, £165"ob4IJctIm land, £750 Tho-fire originated neap ¥& t store. Tho Noav Zealand office haa'S «, insured tn the Phcenix, and the South Britfek £100 reinsured in tho Hanseaticdffice Mncpherson ii'id Filmra'a sawmill atJUlfe Bush was burnt down yesterday. The plant building, aud men a" dwellings ivcw destroyed. The insurances arc unknown at present. . a! At half-past twelve to-day the firc-WU at Onehungarang outan.alarni,anda gnat com motion waa of course tho 'consegiiencerltms discovered that the flre had broken outonth* roof of tho Iron and Stool Company'sworks and it had boen burning for some time WoWWuiJ out. Thore waa an excellent supply.ol water at hand and also steam power 'to pomp -up the supply. The firo was therefore Bpeodllyttliii; puishod, the damage to tho property not Bead-

Opening of the City Freshwater Baths.

♦ ' i . •il.-.U.-iL' The City Freshwater Baths,'eitualqSlf % corner of Albert-street, were1 formally: cle clarcd open by His Worship the Msybl(Hr W. R. Waddcl), at three o clock this after noon. At the appointed time there to s considerable attendance of m'emberianj officers of the City Council, Harbour Raid, Board of Education, and other public bodies, and a fair sprinkling of the general public, Hunter's Band was ii RttendMfo His Worship advanced to the edge of the deepest portion of the- large swimming bath, which wan full of water, and said that the idea of erecting freshwater baths lad originated about eighteen months ago, and it took a definite form when Mr Grave Aickin, in his seat on the CooncD, mowd the consideration of the matter by a com mittee. This was carried, and somemonths ago to Mr Errington was confided tie drawing of the necessary plans-for, the present buildings. , In June last, the tender of Messrs Stevenson and Co. was accepted, the price being £5,000, though it is antici patedjtbatthetotalcost, with extra work, will behearly£7,ooo. HisWorshlpthsn.formally declared the baths open, and invited tto present to drink success to the City, ol Auckland Freshwater Baths.' Thfa w done in bumpers of champagne, when tot formal proceedings terminated. Tta present examined the building. The large swimming bath we may nwrition'hplai; 270,000 gallons of water. iThereM constant inflow and .outflow jwnieg"' lated that while they bath; takei five hours to fill, six hours la owujMlytM emptying process. Bound the1 large .raft' are the dressing-rooms, 52 in-number. Ad jacent there are two lavatories ißii shower baths, the caretaker's room, and «B«n shower baths. In the basement ptowifonw made for wash-houses and cheap tot batw. The building has a frontage of 433 feMw Albert-street by a depth of l#feet.- : TO front is divided into, shope^it»tended>»ioe used for the sale of fruit, refreshments, M», tobacco, while one is tested as a jwow'

Arrival of H.M.S. Nelson.

EM.S. Nelson, with Adjqaiw.l Tryoia6nli6j|i*. arrived from BuseeU this iiorpfag,«icWW^: arinhor at the man-o'-tfar^un^j^JW left Sydney on December S. oaUedatTOaww Bay and Russell, remeiaed at the lj«w PJ3JX Boveral days, and arrived hare at »••*•?»• trip having proved En uneventfuljmj J*^ will probably remain note tor ,abaotta;M>*£,t OFFiOB«8.-Sinoe tho NelßonlistTWU^i, pot, the officers have oompletdycMW*, lho list is aa follows :-KearAdntol.,fl«g i Tryori, O,B.; Flag Lieutenant, wWt*tJl Pakonham; Secretary. CharteßJjjWJW^ Clerk to Secretary, Alfred E.1 Bonwoj my Maurloo O SV B. Fenwiclr j .OapMm. 4WM; M. Lake; Commander,WnvdeslV^JttfflS&M Lieutenants, James R. BroadieyjfßOTVt ffii >. nolds. OhaWoe H Bsgly, CharlealvOtnWiSS;. ford F. Korrost, Herbert J. Q^W^Slw Bawtree, Wm?H. Arnold; Staff .s*&s&< Jamoa K. W. Quinn; Captain MftjJrauSJ! LaC. Robllliard ; Lleutflnuit Mar.jOP"» Chaplain and Naval .lustra*®' ,jgj, James H. Biiinn, 8.A,, &3f*SiL|3r ( master. Frederick North; Chief ]WK: George Boyd; Sub-Lteutenant^ Hon«HMffi| Hoyle; Surgeons. Robort A. Brow™,^ and Francis J. Lea: jMeUUBt H^Wg' Albert V. SouiloTd snd ' TkMdore UH*™" j Rincora, James C. Larg. Ge.OKoT.Bjnmo c|^ h James Armstrong; Ass-ietact EiOTfJJ^JJ,, K. Ikaraon and Lowisß.Thnnjwoojl. sS™£ John Faeham, Barry Gover <«eO.'JKStRgp.. Read (act); Boatewain. James MjfJ&Jjii. tenter. Anthony Allen; MifliM^gSP* tine H. Hughes-Onflow, HSEUtH»W* Kdward D. Ogllvie, PharieaF^orWt »R G. Sandeman, Vivian H. G. Bemr*. «^S ; Tilly, Ernest E. D. Clarke, %™Vl*ssi. Naval radet, Victor G. SHJ^koertW Charles F. Pullard. The J?"°J^li?£^-St»ff bo; no as additional for v«riOT»«f™S# j. OP'timander. James.B. Coßh'*B. ffoaafl. J-ixon. Naval Ueutonaot; dertert J. w^ for surveying duties; Parmameiy,j«E j j^j Aiuuhlett<in charge of a^Twai*' medical stores at Bydne>); Q^lJifaqYrt LarMnKUn chareeofordnaroestorewt^j ■ Whon tho Nelson wan off the ™"J t Norftj,, salute was fired from the vww, jjfiill Head, andaltor anohor wj^droOTw^ visiiors were received on boart w^jj, th»

ARRESTING A MAORI.

[M KUMBAPH-raWS AfflOOUHf*)-

NjswPtyMOiJi'H.tbiid^ A desplbXtk struggle took pl«» « «JT Egmonton Sunday during the <tH* Maori named Tana Koina^alia*^^ Spain, who was chargedmthhoree^fi On the request beug *%'%£& **& hand his person over to J^r«wj^ w^ the stain upon his character ■ ™» moved or established, Ml^^^ knife, and looked df per°«^ & once closed with,'and rfg Z%$MW was secured, brought Into *?»»• J" to Wanganui.

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1885.



8t lb. fit- »D. Sooklaco .. ■ ■'.. 8 12 MltraiUeuee .. V 10 tfeiaon .. .. 8 10 CIokb .. ..7 10 Christina.. ..8 8 Liboller .. ..7 7 Jalvago .. ..6 7 Victoria .. .. 7 7 Wapiti .. ..8 4 Ilevolvor .. ..7 4 Mystery .. ..8 3 BlrBcdivero ..7 2 31ndoro la ..80 Kalo .. .. 0 13 Foul Shot .. 7 13 Contractor .. 6 10 .. 7 13 Victory .. .. 6! rttfurd .. ..7 12 Lionoas .. .61 Handicap Hurdles, two miles and a-eiuartor. St. lb. Bt. lb Macaroni .. 12 0 Alfred _ .. 10 0 Bhotovor .. 11 1! Medico .. .. 10 0 3uilp .. .. 10 10 KlDKfl3k .. .. 0 12 King .. .. 10 7 Tim .. ..9 7 Aljirio .. .. 10 7. Bsllc .. .. fl 0



V^< SA ND CASH SALE. -C 3 000 WORTH OF DRAPERY AND 3jO,VV\j cIotEING, AT HALF PRICE. I. FEFiSANDEZ, DItAPER, NEWTON, Having purchased a largn portion of Messrs L. D. .N.ithau's and Co., Stock, at a very heavy discount, ho is enabled to offer some of the greatest Bargains evor known in Accklaud, whloh the following Price List Will Snow: - Men'a Strong Tweed Summer Suits, coraploto, 255; uaunl price, J2s. Men's Summer Tweed Trousers and Vest, 12a Gd ; uscal price, 20s. Men's Strong Tweed Tronsers, 7s 6d; usual price, 12s 61. Men's Coloured Moleskin Tioussrs, is 6d; usual price, 5a IM. Mcn'a Strong Working Shirts, lined backs, la Gd; usual price. 2s fid. Men's beßt quality. Lodr Silk Coatp, 15s 63 ; usual prlco, 22b Cd ; Silk Holmeta, to matoh, Us lid. worth 12^ Pd. Men's Felt nnd Straw Hats, from Is 6d each, tho cboapoet, and best stock In Auckland, see window; ovory Hat marked in plain figures. Hoy's and Youth's Clothing in groat variety at halt price. A Is ', extraordinary Bargains in Drapery and Millinory, overy artiole guaranteed much cheaper than Queon-street prices; piicolist in future issue. tarSpeclal Toys and Fancy Goods for Christ mas, presents at just a quarter tho usual prioe.



NO PUFF. GENUINE FACT 3. COME AND SEX. FERNANDEZ, DRAPER AND CLOTHIER, KARANGA HAPE ROAD, NEWTON. TRAMS PASS TIIE DOOR. CIOWLBR & WILKINSON, •E ARCHITECTS, SURVEYORS, AND ESTATE AGENTS, Exchange Chambers (ground floor), DURHAM STREET BAST, AUCKLAND. Plans prepared. Builders' Quantities supplied, and Accounts adjusted. Loans negotiated. Valuations undertaken, and Sstatea muneged for absentee, &o. Numerons Proportlcs for Sale, in all partg ot Auckland nml Suburbs. TO 0 NSOJMBY WARD LEVELS The Owner.1) <f Properties situate in Fora lclgh street. Ryk-street, Elizabeth-Btreot, Cost lay-streot, Goorge-street, and all otber streets in the Alma Place District, of which ihe lovols aro not as yet fixed, are inviied to meet tho Ward M»mbor3 and tho City Engineer on TUESDAY NEXC. tho 22nd inst, at 7.30 p.m., in tho Por. sonby Hall, to consider Plans and Levels pro posed by the Engineer. A. K. DEVORK 1 vv d Memhßrs EDWARD COOPER \ * V££ t^tmrfl D. F. EVANS J Lou»c"- TV E I S X ! T\ R I NX ! ! BROOKES & GO'S CHAMPAGNE HOP BEER. No other Hop Beer made by the same process, . and louo so genuine as BROOKES & CO.'d. New appliances to supply the increased demand ■ • for Our SPLENDID BEER, Beware of false Imitations bearing a similar mark. Sec that BROOKES & CO. is on overy label. Christmas Hampers Packed in all sized Casss. Our Beer is produced In quart bottles, and three and live-gallon kegs (guaranteed). BROOKES & CO., CHAMPAGNE HOP BEER WORKS, Jervois Road, Ponsonbt. Telephone 386. Office hours from 9 a.m. till 5 p.m. "VTEW ZEALAND DEFENCES. Public Works Office, Auckland, December2l,lßßs. Written TeEdars will be received at this office tiU Noon of WEDNESDAY, 23rd lnet., fo Charter of a Steam Launch, to carry workmen to Bastion Point. Tenders to state price per day (two trips per day, one at 7.30 a.m., and tin other at 5 p.m.). or price per week or month, with or without hands. THURSDAY, DECEMBER -24, At 12 o'Clock. S.S. PIAKO, As she now lies in Mechanics' Bay, B. TONKS & CO. Will soil on Thursday, at 12 o'clock, at the Brunswick Marr, SS. PIAKO, of about 9J tons register, with good cabin accommodation, 'Ight draught of wator, and suitable for harbour or river services. Terms, Ono-half cash, balance 3 and 6 months. «T.J A.C.B.SOCIETY.NoSI JUVfiiNILE"cONTIN6ENT. Tho Monthly Meeting of the above will be held in St. Patrick's Hall. Hobson-street. TO-MORROW (WodneatJa;) XV ENING. at 7.15 o'clock sharp. N. THOMPSON, Secretary. "DONBONBX WARD L E VE LS, Aloe ting of Alma Place Residents called for This Evoniop (Tuesday) is unavoidably Post poned until TUE3DAY, 29th December. Pon sanby Hall, 7.30 p.m. . A. DEVORE. ; K. COOPER. p. y. evans. JOHN MYEE, your brother ia in Auck ■ land. Leave your address at Stab Office. HANNKEN BROS., for good Clothing, and Mercery. Christmas Sale now on. —300 and 302, Upper Queen-street. Open every evening. , . , PRINTS and Dress Goods selling at cost price. Hannken Bro.'s Christmas Sale now on- 300 and 302. Upper Queen-street. TTtTE have a few Trousers left at 7s 6d, TT worth 12e Gd. Call and inspeot them at Hannken Bros., 300 and 302, Upper Quoen street. Christmas tale now on. &EE OUR STOCK of Suits at 255; KJ splendid value. Hannken Bros.' Christmas Sale now on. Open every evening until 9 o'oloolt. ■ TjIOR SALEjfine upstanding saddle Horse, JU carries a lady, goes In single or double harness; also, double-seated buggy and harness —Apply MrJTphp Qninn. Albert-street. r\ PARTMENTS for Small.Family re _c3l quired at Mangare; must be near- the beach.—State terms and' particulars to 8.J., Btab Office. ... CONTRACT.— Wanted, Man to Cortraot] Smalt job.—Apply Auckland Dairy, Hob apn-street. ; ANTED,; a Situation, by first class Baker; town or country (single); first class references. — Address "Nelson," Star Offloe. ~...-.. \\[ ANTED, Assistants and Improvers ;Tf to Dress acd Mantle-making.—Apply Eden Road House, Mount Eden Road. WANTED, a Man or Stout Lad to Milk.—Apply at 5.80 tonight, at the London Dairy, Victoria-street. ■ W ANTED,.a Good General Servant. Must baa good cook and lauddress.— Apply at once to.Mis D. J. MoLeod, Gsafton W~ ANTED,., a respectable middle-aged ; Woman, to look after a family of chil dren and assist in the housework.—Kor particu lara apply on Thursday morning to W. J. Watts, Onehnnga. ■> S ■ i ■ ■ TJTANTED, Waitress, Waikato, 15a; tt General Servants for Gisborne. 15?, excellont places; Borne for New Plymouth, Wangarei, Cor6mandel, town and suburbs.— B. Henry's Registry. W ANTBD, immediately, Man Cook, Married Couple (farm hands). Lad, (printing offloe). Waitress. Parlormaids, Honse maids. Generals.—Mrs Whitoombe, foot of Wak___B____ - TIT ANTED; a respectable Middle-aged TT Woman, to attend to an Invalid Lady, In return for board and lodging.—For address, apply M. Wood, Butcher, jjymondSjßtreet. _ WANTED,* a" Smarf Boy.-Apply to W. C, Perinea, Queen-street. WANTED, a Strong Boy to make him .self generally useful.-Apply Jas. Martin. Baker, Parnell. ' WANTED, respectable Boarder, private family; no other boarders kept; £1 per week, washing included (near Queen-Btreet).— Apply Star Offloe.' WANTED, by January 1, Board and Residonco.(permanent) for 6 or 7 gentle men.—Address, stating terms and other parties lara, W.A., Stab Offloe. iflOR TROUBLES OF THE LIVER, LIVER STIMULANT j ■ .. Win. Act as a' Charm. It contains th 0 vegetable Liver Tonics Kuono myn, Pcdophyllin. and Taraxacum.; ~ j PREPARED AT THE PHARMACY.'1 ' i ■ Priob. Zb 6d feh.Bot—x.



TT OUSEHOLD /^OAL, 21s PER TON (Fob Cash, on Okdewnr) WHANGAREI COAL MINING COMPANY. KING, WALKER. & CO., Agentß (next Waltomata Hotel). Ty F. HUBB AR D, C.E., ARCHrTKOT.AND SURVEYOR. Water Supply and Dralnago Specialties. 62, Queen-afreet. ' G. BARTLETT, CHRONOMETER, o MAKER AND JEWELLER. A largo Stock of Laditß' and Gents' Gold and Silrer Lever Watcheß of euporior Hnish, a now and well-assorted Stock of Gold Brooches, Knr rings, &0., Ladles' and Gents' Gold and Silver Alberts. Wedding Rings, Engagement and Dross Rings, Gents' Signet Rings. Kieotro Plate, Marble Clocks, Sec, Gents' TSngliah Lovois, at £3 10a ; guaranteed. 154, Queonstrest, Established 1862. T\R. GEO. G.,KENNY, M.8., CM. -*-^ (late Resident Sureoon Wellington Hospital,and Publio Vaocina tor for the Dlstrlot of Wellington), mar !>o Consulted Doily at hlfl Residenoe, VAUXHALL ROAD. DEVONI'ORT, from !) TO 10 A.M. 2 TO 3 P.M. 6.80 10 B'P.M. W. S. Laurie t C° Have foe Sale— 170 Tons JBoncdust 250 Tons Island and Peruvian Guano 200 Tons Superphosphate of Lime Sulphate Ammonia Nltrato of Soda 100 Boles Cornsacks 60 Tonß Blaok and Barbod Fencing Wire 60 Kegs Staploa, Pins, and Rollers SEEna-viz., Whlto and Red Clover, Alsyke, Timothy, Cowgraas, Cooksfoot, and Rye grass, Turnip, otc.



Pricta and Samples on application. CUSTOMS STREET. AUCKLAND. CHRISTMAS CABDS. CHRI3TMAS CABDS. CHRISTMAS PmW^r TBA __ GIFm FREDK. MOUZER'S BIJOU SHOP, In* Victoria-street, Ib the plaoe to buy CHRISTMAS CAED3 and NKW YEAR'S GIFTS. All Now, Choloe, nod Cheap. Plain figures, plain dealing. 11A tfcing of beauty is a joy for ever." nHRKTMAS~4~NEW~YEAR CARDS. THE LATEST~DESIGNS. Beautiful Floral Albums, Deska. Writing Cmor, Card Cases, Nice Selection In Biblea, Prayer Books, Birthday and Gift Books. AT VERY MODERATE PRIOKB. HY. A. COLSAN, Stationer and Bookßeller, Ylotoria-atreet. /1 ~E O~ M o C A U h, \JT WEIAESLEY-BTKEET EAST, qALVAN^D^RQ^WO^ICOLONIAL PtTTMBKRB, BUILDERS, CONTRACTORS, AND STOBEKKKPBKB Are Informed that GEO. McCAUL. or Thames, ■ HAS TAKEN OVER THE BUSINESS LATELY CARRIED ON BY J. L, KEAN, And being a Direct Importer and Purchaser for Cash, Is prepared to Supply all Business Material at Lowest Rates. Awarded Three First Prizes for Colonial Ovens, Corrugated Tanks, Load-headed Nails and washers. Spouting, and Lead-edge Ridging. GEO. McCAUL, MANUFACTURER AND IMPORTER, WEIXEBLEY-STBJCET EAST, AUCKLAND, and Brown and Davy streets. Thames. INSURANCE COMPANIES ASSOCIATION. INBURANCE OFFICES will be CLOSED on FRIDAY and SATURDAY, 25th and 26th Docembor, 1885 (Christmas Holidays). '•' HENRY WOR3P. Secretary. NEW ZEALAND FLLUSTEATED. TniTBITg., A WEEKLY JOURNAL. On THURSDAY NEXT the first number of the " New Zealand Illubtrated Titbits," a Weekly Journal of Original and Selected Mat tor, v-ill bi) Issued. : This journal will contain, betides original matter, caro'u ly Belected extracts from the bcßt Engliob, American, aDd Australian journals. Look Out Fob NEW ZEALAND ILLUSTRATED TITBITS.



! The Parnell Drum and Fife Band's moou light excursion to LiDd's gardens, North oote, last evening, was well patronised; the p.s. Birkenhead, which had been ohartered for tho trip, having about two hundred"l passengers from town. Unluckily, at 11 o'clock, the hour fixed-for tho return, tho steamer was found to be aground, and it was 2 30 this morning be fore she floated, and carried the belated excursionists to town, "A Catholic" writes:—" Would you be so kind as to draw the attention of the head of tho Koman Catholic church in charge of the Auckland district to the necessity of a weekly visit to the old people in tha Refuge ?" ■Mr Arthur's sale is supplying tho people with cheap Christmas presents, ft will Be con tinued at cloven o'clock, to-morrow. ; Special attention is directed'to a sale by public auotlon, to-morrow, at eleven o'clook, by v } K. vsps. Tools and plant of a'general blacksmith's shop, on the premises. Karanaß hape Road, nearly opposite Ponsonby Road and corner of Gundy-street. (Vide Advertisement. . We have much pleasure in reminding bur readers that Row's old established grocery store Yiotoria-jtreot. is undoubtedly ibo place for a good Christmas ham or a pound otgenulne tea. •SSFT"' ,Btu, ff—How many children and women are slowly and surely dying, or rather being[killed,by excesßMMootortog.orthedaUy ?ileO^T c-drUB, or stuff called medi cine that no one knowfgrtiat ft Is made of; who can easily bo cured and>Wed by Hod Bitter* which:aro pure, Bimple. and hairoless that tiS



A Christinas tree and sale of fancy woik opened today in the Convent School, Hob eon and ■'■■ IWyndham-stroets. Some very fine work Was on exhibition, Borne of which had been done, by the pupils of St. Fransca1 de Sales' School. During thoafternronajn uin beiflof the clergy were present.- The care takers of the stalls succeeded in effecting a number of sales. The sale will be open every evening until Christmas Eve. Rev. G. E. Mason delivered another of hUadmirable addresses to to-day, in Shera s Hidings, Queen street. About sixty per sons were present, including several of the clergy. The subject of the address was I'How to Reconcile Liberty and Duty," and ; received the close attention of whole auditory. Mr Mason's comparison of the world's philoso phies before and after Christ was a master piece ol eloquonpe and erudition To morrow's will be' the last of these mid day addresses. J p A Christmas' Tree is to bo held in the Primitive Methodist School-room, Alex andra-street, on Christmas Eve (not on Wednesday evening as announced else where). A large assortment of goods has been collected, and each visitor will secure a preaeent. had an easy victory over Hamilton m the lawn tennis match last Saturday. A lad named Sittaner, residing at Ohaupo, has lust died very auddonly of lockjaw, resulting from a splinter running into his foot. ■' 6 At Wellington the Chinaman Ah Get, who lost money on an alleged carge of horse credit I 8 Prosecuted for defrauding his