SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER.

Auckland—Thiß evoninc, 9.411; to-morrow Morning, 13.4. * Manukau Heads—{This ovonlnff, 0.33; to- Marrow morning. Oil, > K.uPAnA. Heads—This evonlßß, 1.33: to morrow morning, 111, S TNPKT.-Thli ovoning, 0.3?. SUNRl9E.—Toraorrowniorning, 5.5 L MOON'S AGK.—New Moon, lTtli, 5.1U a.m.

ARRIVALS.

I,AST KVKNINH. Thomas Russell, s.s., Helandor, from Napier TO-DAY. Wellington, i.e., Scott, from Whangarni Glonote, a.g., Amodco, from Moroury Bay- To Anau, s.s., MoGoo, from Iluseoll '

VESSELS EXPECTED.

liONDOft—Glonlora, barque. W.G.P.S.. Balled October 31; Waimato. ship, N.M.F.S., Novem ber 23; Northumberland, ship. December 13; Coptic, s.s., loading; Loch Linnio, barque, January. Liverpool—Nauphanto. barriuo. londmg. New Yoiuc—Carl Dott, Irene, and Thames to follow. Java. —. Barques Ferdinand, Imaceo, and Pankwan. Batavia.—Hcrtlm. baiqno. oarly. Southern' Pouts.— Lutterworth, barque, from Dunedin; Knorgy, from Lyttoltou; Threo Cheers, from Timaru; F.llon Donau, from Onniarii. Sootii Bea Islands. — Flootwing, from Samoa; Snndfly, from Tonga. Australia. - Horeills, from Newcn»tlc: Yollando, from Adelaide via Wellington ; Lap winf?. from Quoonslnnd. EXPORTS. Pnr Prosperity. for'.Rookhnmpton—l3s,ooo feet timber, to bo loaded at Moroury Day. Tnwakds Coastwise. — Ida, from Malm rangl. OutwaudsCoastwise.- Cornlie. fovMoroury Bay; Sausy Kato, for Russell; Ida, for MaU kana, Tho brigantlne Pcorlesa completed discharge of her Now 'York carßo. From hera eho will probably go South or to Australia with timuor, Tho brlgniitino Prosperity elcarod at the Customß today for Mercury Bay, where she will load timbor for Rockhampton. Tho s.s. Thomas Rnssell arrived from Gis borno and Napior last evening, with 39 head of oattlo and a small quantity of gonoral enrso. The s.s. To Annn arrived from Russoll this morning with the followingpassencters:- Messrs Vowlcs <2). MpKollar. Bedford, Robertson, Miller. Captain MoLcod, Mesdames Nicholson. Kird, Miss Andrews. Thn s.s. Wollinstton roturnod from Whan trnrei at S a.m. to-dny, with tho followinpr pns gnnpors: Mossrn liudtmto. Smith, Kdmiston, Hanlon, and O'Brien, Mrs Kdmiston. \Vl>en tho s.s. Lionels left Morcm-y Bay ves lordfty, tho schoo/iors Gleaner and Hnnna Isln had finished londing, and wore expected to sail either today or to-morrow. The barquo Glonlora hns discharged tho (trcater portion of hor inward curffo. and is now ready to receive outward cart;o for London. Tho 5.3. Glonolg arrived from Morcury J!ny. Trtirua.andOMwathisinorninK at.G a.m. I'iifi sengerß: Mr and Mr3 Dixou and child, Roy. Mr Peufold, Messrs R. Monk, Woolcock, and 3 natives. Tho mission schooner Southern Cross is to bo docked in a fow days for a gonoral overhaul, and'sho will loavo for Norfolk Island about tho 2(>th inst. The Roy, Mr liritain will bo apav aontter.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Gairloch, 8.8., MoArthtir, from Waltarn Hannah Mofcau, 8.5., Windsor, from Waitara, via Hoglau DEPARTURE. Oretl, 8.8., for Wanganui, yin Now Plymouth Tho s.s. Oroti loft for Now Plymouth and Wansanui to-day with GO tons cargo and 1j passengers. The N.B.S. Co.'s s.s. Gairloch arrived from Waitara this morning with 10 sacks seed and .'> sacks potatoes. Passengers : Messrs Goodall, Wells, Scott. Fronoh, Sampson, Potty, Coad, Williams, Hidington, llalgh, Cotl'oo, Coxon, Connett, Marsh. Cameron, Hottin, Callaghan. Hall, Collins, Honobery. \Vclls, Wright. Pea cock, Bolkcr, Coster, Hooker. Blivir, Syme, Fishor, Duddy. Churchall, Godaon, Lawrence, Bennett, Hall, Hooker, Qoodaore, James, Shaw; Jleadamea Gilbert, MclCco, Bonar, Shaw. Gor don, Such, Handy, Sampson, Jones; Mi3Bcn Hall, Sampson, Hooker, luatthows, Ooltlo. Slio lr.fl. agrain for samo port at 3 o'ciwK;, with 10 tjns cargo and a niunoer of paseungci'3.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Port Ciialmhrs, Wednesday.—Sailed: Mami pouri, for Sydney, via Northorn ports. Pos sengera for Auckland:—Bishop Moron, Mcssrg Montague, Troupe, Joel, Soavoring, Mountain, Edgar, Airs It. Monn, Mis R. Fen wick. Adelaide. Maroh 4.—Arrived; Oriontal P.M.S. PotOfii, with English mail, January 30. Melbourne, March 4. — Sailed this after noon: Waihora, s,s , for Bluif.

COMMERCIAL.

Evbnino Star Offlce, this day. Mkssks Samuel Cociibank and Sow sold yesterday at their Rooms. Queen-street, a largo lot platedware, cutlery, &o, for following re snlts:—Knives, 193 to 28s perdoz.; spoons, ICo to 16s per doz.; forks, 9s to 303 per doz.; operpins!, £5 ss; urn, £15a; tureens. JJI 16s to £»; salvers, £1 Is and £1 6s; side dishes. £3 12a per pair; biscuit boxos, £2 0s; clock, £3; teapots, 5a 6d to 12s 6d each; cruets, is to 13s, &c Mr J. R. Randorson held a sale of land. ' shares, etc., at his mart today. 81 acres at Mangapai wero sold at 4a por acre to Messrs Marlyon and Neary. A parcel of Turkish Bath shares, 25s paid up, fetched 20s. A parcel of Tramway shares, 17a (id paid up, went for 12s (id. Apple Farm Co.'s shares, 7s paid up, brought Is Gd. 119 Kuranui G.M. Co. shares, 100 Emily's, and 2 Moar.ata.irl Extended brought 53 for the lot.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Maim win Close Aa ohdbr— Tnia DAT. For Groymouth, per Humid, a*l FiUi. For ':-cur.intca anil Opoliki, par WolHngtou, uV C p.m. Kor Whitianel, Upper Mill, and Tairuo, per (.llunulfcr, at o p.m. Fmdat, Oth IneO For Gisbomo, Napier, and Southsvn ports, per Tej\nau, at 11 a.ni. For money orders, re gistered leltovs. and uewspupors, at 10 a.m. Late letters till 11.20 a.m. For Cowoi and Coroßianclel, poi1 Coroiuanuol, atl.SOp.tn. For Tluluies, p«r Uotom.ihana, at 1 p.m. For Gisborne ami Napier, par 'J'homiu Rnsscll, For Whaiipfarei Honds, Panm, Waimi, Whan- Karei. Kamo, and Mangapai, por Maagrcgor or Wailuki, at 6 p.m. For TUamos, por Kntorpriso, at 5.38 p.m. Satuuday, 7th iust. For Wntwsm, To Kapa, and WarkworUi, p«r It se t'uscy, at 11 n.m. For Taranaki and Southern Portn, per Penguin, immediately after arrival of s.b. Australiii. For Australian Oolonics, por Australia, imme diately after her arrival from Honolulu. S. B. BISS, Cfalof PosUaastor, Chlnt Post-ofllco, Auckland.

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

MARCH 5, 188 G. Opoi-d House—Pollard's LttllpuMon Oporu Uouil'o Company, " TUo Littlo Duke," i p.m. Thoatre Ro»nl—lJomeuyi'u Ooiioorl, S p.«u. Wosloyan Churoh-Qraftau Mttnd of Hope Entertainment, 7.30 p.m. Star of Auckland Loilko-1.0.0. Toiuplars. S p.m.

V.M.C.A.—DoTOtloual Mooting. 7.80 v.u\. St. Juuuw's llall-llißßiosary Mooting, 7.30 p.m.

IMll-suofl—Monthly Inspeotion of "A" Bat tery Nuw Zstilaud Artillery, 7.30 p.m. Uobson's Koouis—Rationalists' Westing, 7.50 p.m.

Deaths.

McKINSTRY —On ttio 4Ui March, tit Pon sonby, ATHliHiu AloKlnstry, niitivc of Armagh, iralund; need HI ywirii. Thß funeral will loftYe hta lftte reuidenun Biown street, on Saturday at S p.m. Frii-uda pleasu accept tUla iavitution.

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

THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 1885.

JTcr the cause that lacks aanlstasce. For Ou) wrong tlort needs reointuinst, For tio'futura lv tho diaUiuoo, And die KOOd Unit wo cou do.

Many injudicious things arc s«id and done by Ministers when in extra- Parlianientavy oiiiw thiiy perambulate the country and angla for support; but perhaps the recent tour of the West Coast by tlia Premier and Minister of Mines can furnish more thau its quota of these faiix pas. It was in the ultra-montane solitudes of the West Coast that Messrs Stout and Larnach managed to squeeze in a vote of con fidence in the Ministry at tha close of an address on theoretical pelitics by tha Premier. It was at Kccfton, in the sams neighbourhood, that the Premier gave a most ill-advised address. That the occasion was post-prandial might have formed some excuse had not the Premier's teetotal principle* b»en well known. His glowing eulogy of the wealth of the West Coast in minerals and timber may be all desarved, end no doubt he would, after dining, be in the best frame of mind to appreciate these advantages; but th«re was suraly no necessity for him inviting a fresh milking of the Government cow on behalf of a district so highly favoured by Nature. Mr Stout said i-n the course of the speech we refar to : —" One result of my visit to the West Coast is this: I think it would perhaps have been batter if we had offered so mach per cent, as an additional induce ment to capitalists at Home to embark in the railway undertaking. (Loud ap plause.) From what I have already seen of the extraordinary resources of the West Coast, I think such a conces sion was fairly warranted in the in terests of the colony. (Applause.) However, we will see what comes of the present attempt, and should it fail, we will see what can be done in the direction I have indicated." That is a plain intimation to tha syndicate which is being formed to construct the East and West Coast railway en the land grant system that they have only to ask better terms and they will obtain them. In the opinion of most people, the coneasmons already made for the constriction of the railway are more than ample; but of course the syndicate will not think so after they learn Mr Stout's views. Mot only are the Premier's statements unbusinesslike and injudicious, butt they are glaringly inconsistent. If the West Coast is " a mineral region which is not second to any in the world for ric-lniess and value," why should it be necessary to bribe capitalists to form a railway to it? If, in addition to the hidden mineral treasures, there are " millions of wealth " in the forests of that happy district, is it not sufficient to give the syndicate enormous grants of these valuable lands, without inviting it to ask for some cash down besides ? As "good wine needs no bush," go the suspicion is apt to be engendered that bhe Premier's flattering periods are in sincere, and that his eulogy of the resources of the West Coast was simply meant, like the railway project, to enrry favour and serve a political end.

Railway Excursions.

The efforts that havo lately been mada by Mr Hudson, manager of tho railways, to promote traffic by cheap excursions, hare met with a fair amount of buccosh, and wfll'tend to popularise tho lines. There lias novor before boon any wollooncoivcd endeavour to develop especial traffic; our railway management appoara to have exhausted its rosourcos in settling an ex orbitant tariff calculated to reduce traffic to the minimum of thoeo who are compelled to travel on business. Auckland is not so toTourably ciroumstanoed for excursions by rail aa some of ttie Southern towns. Thoro are practically unlimited opportunities and attractions here for excursions by sea and picnics at one of the waterside resorts. In che South the rail way is the groat highway to the country along which tho holiday traffic naturally flows. Mr Hudson has, how over, exhibited good judgment in tho selection of resorts.in thor-teofhisfareJ.and the management of the trains ; and the suc cess which has attended the inauguration of these excursions should provo a good augury for tho future In to day's isaue are announced a cheap ex cursion rate to the Hot Springs of To Aroha, passengers being carried at 3S3and2Bs (return) incltfdbfj coach fare both wayf, and with the privilege of staying a month. This i3 a fcrip which should be largely patronised. Another attractive excursion is advertised for Tuesday next, March 10th, to Henderson, where thsra is a pretty bush, and the easiest access to the famed Waitakerei Falls. The fare of 2s first-class and Is 6d second-class (return) ought to prove a great draw. A special train is also arranged for Sunday to convey excursionists returning from the Dargaville races. For St.' Patrick's Day, arrangements are being made for a fast trip to the Waikato, giving visitors the option of stopping at Meroer, Huntly, Ngaruawahioj and Hamilton. The fares will range from 3s §d to 5s 3d, which is low enough to bring the trip within the means of all. Wo hail with satis faction these signs of vigour in our Kiilway management. The lines have been too long conducted without the slightest enterprise or regaVd for public convenience or pleasure. People have lived in Auckland for twenty years without the epportunity of making themselves acquainted with the country, and the railway opens up v new ..world at their doors. Popular support will, iwe hope, reward these efforts, which must, if sustained, result in great benefit to both towriahd country.

The Soudan Rebellion.

Tnu fall of Kaasala, and tho recall of tho British column advancing against Berber, which we announced in a late edition of last night's Stak, mark another stago in tho False I'rophot'a triumphant career in tho Soudan. Tho failure of Admiral Ifowett's mission to King John of Abyssinia, and tho oonsoquont helplessness of Kaseala aftor tho capture of Khartoum by tho robcls, made it fall an easy prey to tho enemy. The garrison had, however, maintained a stubborn de fonco, and only yielded after being reduced to tho point of starvation. Theunsueccusful sortio which they rocentiy maila was doubt less with tho object of scouring supplies. Kaasala is a town of 10,000 inhabitants, situated noar tho Black Nilo or Atbara Kivor, 230 milos oast of Khartoum. Tho population, who aro Nubians, have ovi dontly not beon slaughtered ; thoy doubt less fraternised with tho rebels and aided in tho massanro of tlio Egyptian garrison, Tho fall of tliia stronghold was long ago anticipated, and Sounaar, another garrison town nearly 200 miles south of Khartoum, may at any momonts bo also captured by tho rebels. in rocalling to Korti tho expedition undor Colonel Brackonbury which was advancing on Borbor by tho river route, Lord Wolooloy makes confecsiou of tho dongors and dith cultios of tho route, an woll as of tho pro bable effect on tho Arab tribe* of tlio ropoated victories of tho Mahdi. Not only will thoro bo n fresh rising and concen tration of tho tribes around Berber, but nil tho available British fot'co will bo required at head-quarters to keep tho Kabbabisch tribes by whom they aro surrounded in a state of loyal foar. It is woll known that the.«B treacherous gentry would be rondy at a favourable opportunity to join their coni patrjot? in massacring and despoiling tho Ruglish troops for whom they now profess such friendship. Tlio abandonment of tlio Borbor Expedition will also render moro hazardous nnd arduous the projected advance from Snakbn, n« thero will bo largo additions to tho foreo of Osmnn Digno" who will contest overy foot of tho British advance across tho troeless and water less hills and gorges of that truly infernal rogion. Tho indications (despite the stutemont that an engagement! is shortly expected to take tilaoo with Osman Dignn) are that the British troops will simply act on tho defensive in tho moantinio, and that no advanco against Borbor and Khartoum will tako plnco until thoy aro able to march .simultaneously from Korti nnd Suakim. It in gratifying to lonru that in loyal onthr.Hinsm tho native*! of India aro omulnt inj; tho peoplo of llieso oolonics, a number of native reginiontH baring volunlcoiod for sorrico in tlio Soudan,

Russian Invasion of Afghanistan.

Tut nowß ignited aa a second edition of llio Si'AJi last wight, reporting the lUuuian In vasion of Afghan territory, and tho Minis torln.l staloment in tho British Parliament amunincin;; that Sir I'otot' Lumsdon, tlio British Commissioner, aotinjf with the approval of liisCiovernniont, had advised tho Afghans to avmod resistance of tho invasion, eignilios that war botweon Eugland aud Kuß*iu may occur at any moment. Tho firm altitude of tho British Governraont, and thoir plain iatimation to Uuuiia that tho Afghans woulil bo supported in resist ing any oncroachmont u]>on Afghan Urritory, have ohockod for tho present any further advanco, instructions having boon issued from St. Potorsburg direct ing tho army in Asia to avoid any collision with tho Afghans. Hut it is not stated thai their orders ntithoripo the relini[uifhnioi)t of tho pass in the Hindu Kush mountains, whioh they have already soi/.od. Tho objents of tho advimoe woto probably achievod in the armed occupatiou of tho country south of tlie range which Russia proposed and the British Comiuis.'jionerß opposed an tho soutliorn boundary of thu Mufecoriba domuiiaiis in Asia. Parleying will doubtlos.s j, ro on now but with Russia in ootupation tha ehancca are againflt yielding up poa^ssiou witliout an appoal to arms. In that ovont, tho rani'tor narrows itßolf down to tlio C|uo«tion : " Will England go to war in support of the British Commissioners' recommendations re lative to tlio boundary ?" Tho followinj' re marks on this subject, from tho " l'all Alall (Jazotto" of January lGth, contain Infor mation having an important botninjj upon this question : — " Tho prophota of gloom who hoop assur ing us that our Afghan policy has oxposed India to tho raenaco of an immtnont Kus*i;in invasion would do well to read tho lett-w from tho ' Times ' correspondent with tho Afghan Boundary Commission which appears on tho outor sheot of that journal this morning. Spoaking of tho chango that has como over tho relations botwoen tho Afghans and tho Indian Governmont, thu writer, who has just travorsod Afghanistan, con cludes with this remarkable declaration :— • Tho chango that lias come to pass iv cri dently not appreciated or understood in England. Few, if any, know that Abdur raman Khan ia the most powerful rulor Afghanistan h«« known for many years, ilis authoiafey is absolute and unquestioned, and, so long as his vigour of laind aud body lasts, no fear need bo entertained as to his ability to proaorvo tho poaco and trun quility of any frontier which ra likoly to bo given to him, Tlio prejudices of tha Afghan people against us aro melting away as tho spoctro—no, tho reality—of Kusnlan annexation advanoos closer to Herat, and now they begin to look to u« ng their guar dians and protectors. In those faefcs there in, I think, a justification of tho late Yioa roy'a Afghan polloy.'"

Meetings of the Education Board.

Mr Mosk h»s giron notice for to-raorrow'n meeting of tbo Boawl of Education of a re solution in favour of monthly instead of weekly meetings of tho Board, tho business arising in the interim to bo disposed of by an Executive Committee This is an old question revived. Tho objoct of tho motion is avowedly to enable country mombers to attend the mcotings of bho Board ; but thero is no complaint that tho intorostH of tho oountry districts aro neglected. On tho contrary, tho town has beon starved, to supply the nocossiUos of the country. Any good that might accrue from tho introdnotton of a larger number of country members would, wo fool sure, be moro than counter-balanced by tho mischief of throwing tho oxecutivo business of tho Board into the hands of two or thrco members and tho jjtiid officers. Tho adoption of the motion would mean, to all intents and purposos, that tho mom bors of the Board aro unwilling t» giro the timo which is roquirod for the sntinfaefconi' porformanee of tho duties thoy have .undertaken, and thoso who aro in that position should rosign, and let othor men who ara not unwilling toko thoir places. Mr Mess may personally bo acquitted of any interests in the decision beyond a wish to ftpon tho Board up to tho County Committees, for ho has alroady notified his intontion of rotiring under any circumstances ; but ho has not givon duo weight to the consequences of his motion. In asking tho mombsrs to voto for it ho really puts uUat to determine which among tho mombers dosiro to shirk the work thoy have pledged themselves to porform.

The maili for Auckland by tho direct stoamer Himutoka, which arrived in Wel lington on Tuesday, consist of 41 bags, and will arrive horo by the A rawata at an early hour to-morrow. Thoso mails will have oc cupied 47 days in transmission from London to Auckland. Ono charitablo institution which wag un ropresentod at tho Union Company's excursion to-day was the Howo-streot Homo. On making inquiry as to why this was thus, wo learned that the girls are all either boarded out or in service, which must be considered very satisfactory. The inquiry into the casualty to the s.s. Thomas Russell will be held on the 11th instant. A temporary transfer of tha license of the Queen's Head Hotel, Queen-street, has been granted from Mr H, Mcllono to Mr George Dennis. Mr Dennis has been for some timo manager of Kidd's Commercial Hotel, and providore of tho Waikato Steam Navigation Company. Mr George P. Hilton, who has for many years past acted as mining and mechanical engineer in connection witli somo of tho most important mines at the Thames, leaves to-morrow by the s.s. Te Anau, having received an important appointment in connection with a mining venture in Otago. Mr Hilton erected ths first rock boring and air-compressing machinery at tho Thames, which has proved of great assistance in developing the resources of the district, and Imb knowledge of crushing machinery and general mining engineering U probably not second to that possessed by ftuy other man in the oolony,

Mr Froudo, tho historian, and Lord Elphinstone visited Bishop Cowie at Biehopsconrt to-day, Lord Macdonald of tho Isles, accompanied by Mr Livitigstono, mi oilicer of tho '12nd Highlanders, sjionta portion of tho duy inspecting tho hylvia Park Stud Farm. Mr Livingstone, who it on leave from his regiment, waa at Kgypt during tho war with Arabi Pasha, anil took part in the concluding victory of Tel-cl-Kebir. Mr Froudo, Lords Elphin stono and Mucdouald, aud Mr Livingstono, nro stopping nt the Northern Club. Mr Froudo hopes to visit the Hot Lukes in a day or so. Sir Gooi-go Oroy, who hoped to accompany him ou the journey, will be unable to do so, hnviuy to remuki here to inoetMr Brady, tkodißtinguishednaturaliut, who ia expected to ftrriro horo from Samoa on tho 10th iuat.

A liro broke out this morning at lion 110"" si root, Ponsonby, in a cottage occupied by Mr John Connolly. Tim I'onsouby F'ra Brigade was on (ho spot a few minute 8 after tho alarm was given, «'»' llamC« wsre Boon extinguished. Tho liouho wii 8 insured in the South British Ollice for l'7O. and tho damago is estimated at about .120- Tho monthly inspection of tho City Guards was hold last ovoning in tho Drill shed, Major Shepherd, inspecting olßcor. Thoro was a full muptor, not ono member being ftbuent, Capt. Isaacs and Lieut. Osborno were also prosont. At tlio cloro of the Inspection, the men marchod out, headed by tho Garrison Band, under Band mauler Morris, ard on their return to the Bjiod, Mr \V. E. Bonnott waa unanimously elected Sub-Lioutonnnt of tho (Juurda. Tho olootion gavo goneral satisfaction, Mr Bennett having proved himself a very ollicient member. In tho telogram of Customs rovonuo re turns published yesterday, an error occurred which mude Auckland's contribution look relatively small. The amount collected hero last month, wa avo informed, was i%>;!,Sl2 10a Ud, not £13,812, as given in the Wellington telegram, Another very successful rehearsal of Fos fcett'a cantata, " Harold (Jlyndo," took place last ovoning in Uio Cook-street Meot ing-house, when there were present ovor 80 members of the choir and orchestra, and those preaont went to work with a will, with excellent results. Tho music in very pretty and ploasing, and of great variety. Tho performance takes placo on Monday next in tho Choral Flail, whon it is expected thoro will bo a vory large nudinnoo, us tho tickets aro soiling readily. Tho full proarammo is to lio ndvsrtincd on Saturday. A finiil ro heai^al takes place on Saturday ovonlng. The chargo of incendiarism will be hoard against tho woman Valentino Brequot to morrow at tho Police Court, and it instated that tho fiolico havu a very strong enso. Dotootivu Twohoy buy boan getting up tho evidence. Tho A Battery of Artillery will bo repro eoutud at tho New Zoulihhl As-ooinUon by tho following :—Woolloy, A. I'ayne, G. l'urxlow, Henderson, uud Tniyiß. Woolloy h already nt Wellington, and thy others #o down to morrow. Tlio Battery will vote .125 towards tlioir expom-eas. Wo aro glad to I«irn thoro Is no truth iv the report it-hat thero had been a Horiou* conflagration ab lilair'i bush, Hikutaia. Mr Blair assures us ho has suffered no loss by liro, but tho report had arisin from tho (Instructive firo at tho Union Sash and Door Company's bush adjoining. The annual atiiletio sports in connection with Ulio Wellosley street School tuke plane tomorrow (lfrhlay) at 11 a.m., in the Domain, undor tlio iminodiato superintend onco of tho fctaff of teachers. I'arontn and friends are cordially invildd to bo proaont. Thoro ia vory liltlo additional to rolato respecting tho (ire whivh occurred in Cus toms street Woat yesterday nftornoon. Bo i-idea Mr Colo it appear* that Uio building vms occupied by Mr Heady, fishmonger, who kepthia smoking appniatusiu tlio upper (<tmej. An employee named .lame*! Lam bert states that he wan on tho ground lloor when Uio tiro broke out. Ho rushed up- Blairs, and found several iuuullos of Mr ColoV cano in a bln/.0. Jki waa unable to extinguish tho lire. Tho Firo Brigade, however, upoedily arrived, and woro moro successful. Tho origin of tho ftr« huu not yot been cxplauiod. In rcsponso to an invitation from the Chairman (Mr 0. W. Owen) and members of tho Harbour Board, soviual of tho dis tinguished visitors now in Auckland wont on an oxcurtion wound tho harbour. Tho ferry steamer Alexandra »as chartered for tho occasion, and loft Qucon-itroct Wharf shortly after 3 o'clock. Amongst those present woro Lord Elphinstono, Lord Maodonuld, of the l«lea, Mr J. A. Fronde, Mr Fronde, junior, Mr Livingstone, and membors of tho Harbour Board. Tho Alexandra steamed up the harbour past Kauri Point, then turnod, paeeod closo to tho works of tho New Zoaland Sugar Company, and thoneo to tho dock in coureo of construction at Calliope Point. Hejo the party went ashore and inspected tlio workf, under tho guidance of Mr Lanigan, con tractor, (ienorul satisfaction was expresssd with the progress mado and the substantial character of tho work. Tho party having again embarked, tho Alexandra steamed a short diatanoe down Rangitoto Chanml and than returned to town.

Tho David Livingstone Lodgo, No. 20, 1.0. G.T., held an open lodgo meeting in the Tomperance Hall lsst evoninß, corn moncing at eight o'clock. Bofore the meeting was thrown open, seven now members joined tho lodgo. Tho hall was thereafter tilled with an onthusiastic audience The Lodge Deputy, Bro. Simmp, took tho chair, and having an nounced tho business of tho nioetiiig, Mien Cottingham spoiled tho entertainment with a pianoforte solo. Tho Chairman followed with a short address on tho principlos of Good Tomplary. Tho following mombors and frisnds took park in tho entorkainmont: — Bio. Thompson, song ; Bro. l'reseott, song; Sis. LongboHoiH, rocitation ; Sis. CoUing ham sang "JcaeieV Drooin," wid wan encored, when sho respondod with another song. Bro. McLachlan recited the "F!ro mnn's Wedding j" Bro. Cox followed with a KOng, and thon Mr Jenkins sang "Far Away," with violin nocompanimont; Bro. Mercior gay« a rocitation. Bro. Witton and Mr Fell following with songs. Bro. Thompson and Sis. CoUinghuin guvo a vocul duot. Bro, Skimor then gavo a rocitation, which was highly appreciated, and ho responded to an enooro with a song. Mr Neblock thon gavo a song, and having como to tho cud of tho programme, tho mooting was brought to a close by tho wholo audioiica rising and singing tho National Anthom, Miss Cottingham kindly accompanied on tho piano throughout tho evoning.

At a banquet to which ho war recently ontortained in Molbourno, Mr Frauds rospondod to tho toaet of "Literature" In tho coiir.su of his remarks he said :— Hero in onr oountry—and ha spoko of this as his country, because he felt that ho was among his own people—ho confoemd that ho eomotiinoa looked with envy on his pro fessional brothren olsowhere. Ho did ho when ho saw tho French people take their men of lottors and mako thorn MiniHtorH of State, or when ho saw tho Gormans pro moling thuir literary mon to tbo nobility, giving them distinctions of all kinds; or, most of all, whon ho saw the Vankoes Bond J. R. Lowell to bo Ambassador in London, and mako Bret Harto and Washington Irving diplomatist*!. la fact, a great deal of tho diplomatic work of America had beon done, and was being dono, by tko members of tho litorary profession ; and ho bolievod they did it quito as well as any titled people. Lrtoraturo hold no rooogniscd position, although mon of letters woro really forming the thoughts of other m«n. Thoy read the nowspapera, the review*, and tho books of literary mon, and upon what they read thoy foundod their viowa and formed thoir opinions. Litterateurs woro fill ing the placo occupied by tho Church in tho middle a^cs, by tolling tho people what to boheve, and trying to persuade thorn to bclievo it. In tlio press still moro remarkably woro thoy like tho groat prelates of the time named, for they rebuked Kings and Ministers of State — (laughter)—and excommunicated people who did wroug, and, moreover, wore always infallible. (Laughter.) He had always tried to toll tho truth honestly in the discharge of his duties, and he learned that from his great master, Thomas Carlyle.

SLY GROG SELLING AT PORT ALBERT SHOW.

(BY TfITiG'eRAFH—OW CORRLSPONDEKT.)

Port Albert, this day. CoVffZABLB Ikoer I;iat evening, ai'tned with a search -warrant, seized 27 bottles of win in the possession of Alfred Woodcock, near tho publio hall, which it is alleged he intended to offer for sale illegally. The Vigilance Committee had been watching Woodcock's actions during 'the day near the show ground. He had a horse loaded with two sacks, in which Wiis fouiid the wine seired. Alfred Wood cock, senior, and Alfred Woodcock, junior, will bo charged before the local justices with a breach of the Lic'easing Act. Con stable Inger has prored himself a shrewd office in this case.

SUICIDE OF MR WILLIAM McKINSTRY.

TUo Cause Depression of Mind.

A deep fooling of painod Rurpriso was pro duced throughout the Ponsonby district last night by the circulation of the report that Mr W. McKinatry had cominittod suicide by cutting his throat. Many worfa inclinod to discredit the news, for tlio gentleman's well-known character for strict sobrioty and irreproachable conduct seemed to pro cludo tlio possibility of such a shocking occurrence ; but conviction was at longth forssd upon the most incredulous. Tho news w»s unhappily too true. It scorns that tho unfortunate gontloman has been affected lately by palpitation of the heart, and that during the last week Dr. Bayntun has been attending upon him for this ailment. Co incidontly with this ho hns been suffering from lowuess of spirits.loading to the hal lucination that ho waa in straitened circum stances, and that dire want was staring him in tho face. This depression of mind affected liis looks and manner to such au extent that bis friends noticed it. Yostorday morning Mr McKinstry came down as usual to iiis ollice in town where he lias carried on Ha business tw a commission agont. . It is situated next door to Mr John Snppet's oflioo in tho chain bori adjoining Mr Eaton's auction mast, and during tho morning ho was in it at frequent intervals. Shortly beforo noon Mr Soppot and Captain Armstrong of tho North Slioro wore conversing together at tho street door, wfcon Mr McKinstry approachod, Captain Armstrongatonoegroetod him, remarkingas ho did so that ho did not look so well as usual. Mr McKinstry roplied that ho did not feel woll, and that ho should probably go homo soon. Ho then went away towards Cus toms-stroot West, but wap hoard in his office at a later stage of tho day. It is worthy of notico, as throwing soms light upon his montal depression, that ho had a day cir two boforo told Mr Soppet that ho fanoiod bin hoad had beon affocted by boing too much is the sua while getting bananas from a vosse! in tho harbour. Yoaterday afternoon he left homo for tho avowod purposo of procooding to Parnoll in ardor to collect some money, and Mb family never again aaw him alivo. Dr. Bayntun called shortly afterwards to boo him, and was informod that ho had gone out. Towards tho ovoning tho first BuspicionH woro excited by tho dis oovory of tho deceased's watch and chain mid £C 1 odd in his room. It was apparent that ho had turned oijt his pockets lbofore loaving, find this fact, coupled with hln strange deluaion aboHt his pressing noed of money, coiisod a feeling of uueavl usss. In tho moantinio tho doceancd had beo« soon on tlip Surrov Hills ostato by a lad namod Henry MolSwen, who re sidon near tho McKinstrya in Brown-streot, oil' Richmond Kond. McKwon was lying on the vorgo of a plantation in the Surroy Hills ostato rcadinp a book, when about 5.'20 Mr McKinstry made his appearance HeHOomodsurprisad at finding anyonothoro, and thon, after saying "Halloa, Henry, road ing a book," turned away and entered another plantation somu distance off. Ho stood thorc for a fow moments evidently in thought, looking from ttmo to timo at tho boy as if debating something in his mind. Finally, ho bogan to approach again, thon he stopped, and after a momont or two turned on his licol and went down to the gully, whore he disappeared from viow. No apprehension waa excited in tho boy's Hiind, and ho went on with his reading. After roturning home, however, ho was met by Mr W. McKinstry, jun. (eldest son of deceased), and asked if he had sacn his fathor. By this timo tho family had grown coriousry alarmed, and the sooond son (Mr lirnost McKinstry) had got off for Parnell in search of ki« parent. McEwon recounted what had token place at Surroy Hills, and young Mr McKinstry and he, accora pani«d by Mr F. W. Lipscombo, at onoe sot off thither. Aftor a closo search, and whon nrght waa closing in, thoy discovered tho body of deceased at tho bottom of o gully near the creok. Tho right hand clutchoVl lirmly an open razor, and an ex tensive gash a«ross tho throat explained the horrible uee to which it had beon put. Lifo was quito oxtinct, and, in fact, death must havo rapidly super vened upon the perpotration of the wuieidal act, for it had beon done most doterminodly. Constablo Collis and Drs. Bayntun and Knight were speedily ac quainted with tho sad discovory, and tho Key. W, Caldor broke, as gontly as pos sible, tho nous to Mrs McKinstry, who is in cnfoobled health at proHont. Constablo Collis had tho body conveyed in an ex press todocoaßed'slato rosidonco, whore tho medical gentlomon awaited its arrival. Their skill, however, was not required. An inquost into tho affair is proceeding at tho Star Hotel, Newton, as wo go to prosß. Tho deceased was an old and hxghly respected rosidont of Ponsonby. Ho has boon associated with its Highway Board, he was district agont for the New Zealand Insurance Co., and for many years ho has beon an active parishioner "of All Saints' He was also elected upon tho Temper anco ticket to the Ponsonby Licensing Bench last year, and along with his colloagues was re-elected gororal weeks ago. Ho was a quiot but genial man, woll-likod by his extensive circlo of frionds, and at enmity with no ono. Hia melan choly death, thoroforo, is doplored with heartfelt regret. The deceased was a. native of Armagh, Ireland, but he has beon in the colony for fully a quarter of a oontury. He loaves a .wife, two sons, and two daughters. His age was 61.

ALARMING EXPLOSION ON THE STEAMER DURHAM.

Narrow Escape of the Engineer.

(BY TiHiEGRArH.—OWN CORW4SPONDBNT.)

Port Albert, this day. Thjc s.s. Durham's boiler burst as she was going down tho river this morning. Tho Engineer, Stuart, had a narrow oscapo from being killed. Tho steamer will re quire to bo towed into Holensvillo. She was to havo brought up Auckland ox oxcursionists, arriving for Dargaville woes, but ottior arrangements will have to bo made.

TABLE TALK

There aro 300 Board schools in London. Tliß Governor of New Zealand has arrived at Adelaide Crojw in Canterbury are badly injured by tho rmn. " Tho Little Duke " in the Opera House ; tho bora liddlor in the Theatre. New South Wales Parliament in to moot on tho 17th inst. The Gairloch brings a second lot of excur sionists from Now Plymonth. Christohurch Tramway Conipaay 'a annual report sho«« a surplus of £1,630, which is curriod to reeerro account. Mr Thomas Wright's eight-roomed house at Moraington, Okago, was destroyed by ' lira yofiterday. Insuraneo, £400 in thd National Offico. Mr Read, Governor of Wellington Gaol, who is OS years of age, hag been called on to rosign on account of age. He has held tho position for 25 years. A labourer named Samuel Green died of heart disease while walking along the Fern kill Railway, Oto^o, on Tuesday night. Cattio from Waitara by the new steamer Gairloch are delivered in Auckland sale yards within 17 hours of leaving Taranaki. Mr John Harrigan, of Oamaru, who had gone to Dunedin with tho intention of ontoring the Hospital, was found doad in bsd yaeterday morning at the Leviathan Hotel. The total space allotted for the Industrial Exhibition-is 69,404 feet, of which 55,000 feet are for the arts section and 10,000 for home industries. A number of changes are about to be mnde in the colonial dctectivo force, but they do not affect Auckland. Murdoch's sawmill at Invercargill was burned down yesterday. He had another sawmill destroyed by fire quite recently. The Turakina, now loading frozen meat at Dunedin, is to sail on Saturday, with about 12,000 carcases. Parihaka settlers are uneasy because of the breaking up of the constabulary camp in that district, arid are communicating their fears to the Native Minister.

CABLEGRAMS.

BY OAMJS— UOPYBIUHT.)

Installation of Prosldont Clovoland. London, March i. — General Grovor Clevoland was installed as President of tho United Statos to-day, Tho Frozon Moat Trade. The frozen meat ox Orient sto<imcr Aus tralia has ai'i'ivod in good condition. Gorman Annotation In Africa. The annoxation of tho torritoty adjacent to Zanzibar ousts tho Glasgow Colonising Company, who previounly occupied it. Gorman Claims In FIJI, London, March 4.— Tho Anglo-German Commission to adjudicnto upon the claims of Gorman subjects in Fiji, and upon tho working ot the Woalorn Pacific, will as semble without delay. Hon. J. B. Thurs ton, Colonial Socrotary of Fiji, will act as tho British Commissioner. Illnose of Mr Gladstone London, March 3.—Mr Gladstone is at presont confined to bis room by a feverish cold. A later telegram save :—Mr Glndstono is still in a weak oandition, but his health is improving. • The Gorman Press statos that Earl Gron villo is sowing tho seods of distrust between France and Germany. Tho Melbourne Hnrbour Trunt's titoamer Gannot, which has boen laid up at Malta for ropairs for a conaidomble timo past, has sailed for Melbourne. Messrs Young and Lark, Australian merchants, who failed some time ago, have mado an offer ot 15» in tho £, in monthly payments oxtondiug for a period of two years, on tho balanco of debts duo by them. This offer has been accepted by most of tho oreditors. Tho Btoamer Biaeinor, bound from Glasgow to Port Chalmers, Avhich was dis masted and put into Stornoway, has been towed into Grocnock for ropairs.

EXCURSION TO MOTUTAPU.

Tiik annual excursion givon by tho Union Steamship Company to tho children of tho various charitable iiwtitufcions of Auckland look place today. Tho fine steamship To Anau, in charge of her popular master, Captain MoGeo, wm sot apart for this trip, and all possible arrangements which oould coiuluco to tho comfort and pleasure of passengers wero ably carriod out by her oilicers, who entered heartily into tho day's amusement. Tho vessel was in capital order, and was gaily decoratod with bunt ing, while ample provision wos nUso made by the Company in tho way of choico^eatables and drinkablos for tho children. The ditTeront schools arrived in good timo, that is Bhortly boforc 10 a.m., tho hour announced for starting, tho younger children boing coiiToyod in vehicles kindly lent for the occasion. Thoy wero ropreeonted as fol lows :—Kohimarima Training School, 69 boys, in churge of Mr M. Hogan, assisted by Mre Hogan and tho Misses llogan, Charnock, and Kilpatrick ; Parnell Orphan Home, 23 boys and 9 girls, in chargo of Mm Scarlett, Miss Biddiok, Mr Paarco, and Mr Uawlings ; St. Stephen's Native School, 31 boys, in charge of Mr Davis; St. Mary's Female Orphanage and In dustrial School, 73 girls, in chargo of the Right Roy. Monseigneur lynes, V.G., kindly assisted by Mrs Gregory, Mr Darby and Mr Sweto. Tho children were all attired in neat and appropriate ooßtumo, those from St. Mary's present ing a very tidy and woll-carod for appear ance, which reflected the greatest credit on tho manager and all concorned. Some of tho children in this sohool wero infants, and they wore looked nftor with the groatost care. Messrs Couplaiul, Dignan and Co. kindly provided omnibuses free of charge, in which tho younger childron wore driven from tho rchools to tho ship. Tho four schools thus represented about 200, mul about 250 others woro admitted on board by ticket. Irapcj's band was on board, and discoursed appropriate music. Tho steamer left tho wharf at 10.15 a.m , leaving about a dozen late arrivals on the wharf to lament over their want of punc tuality. It was intended that tho To Anau should steam to Motutapu, mid that if the woathor was fino enough, those whe wishod to go ashore should bo landed in the ship's boats. Early in tho day the rain fell hoavily, but tho woather improved lator on, and n pleasant day's outing was antici pated.

THEATRE ROYAL.—REMENYI THE VIOLINIST.

Rkmknti's second concert was givon last night, and despite the bleakness of tho weather, thore was a capital audience. That they wore rewarded for thoir trouble in braving the elements there is no reason for doubting, for the effect of the per tho highly favourable impression pro duced on the minds of those who at tended tho previous concert. As before, tho distinguished violioist was set down for three contributions to tho programme, but the audience took care that each morcoan was suppleuiontod by the addition of anothor. The majority of thorn wero what may be termed oxhibitivo pieces, chosou or designed for the purpose of affording the musician fitting opportunity of displaying his oxtonsivo knowledge of technique, and his complete mastery over tho multifarious resources of his instrument. In this ho ituuoeedod to perfection. At tho Hume time, one is ape to tire of feats of pure manual agility or instrumental prestidigitation, however marvellous tho skill required to execute thorn. It is other wise with tho masterly interpretation of ennobling or soul - entrancing music. Kom6nyi s initial numbor was a fantasia by his follow-studont and compatriot Erneb, on airs from Rossini's opera, " Othello," and it was played with the utmost oaso and graco. Himself a chief amongst violinists, it is only natural to find that Ernst had interwoven with his fantasia many ornato and rocondito ombollishmonts which are "caviaro to tho general" and stumbling blocks in the way of the amateur performer. Considerable skill was manifested in tho performance of the difficult paseagos at tho beginning, but it was in discoursing the more expressive themes towards tho end of tho composition that Kemenyi most potently oxertedan influence upon his hearers. The inevitable encore was answered with a pretty rhythmioal barcarole by Schubert, tho rendering of which was marked by soma lours de force on tho part of the vl»linibt, and also by exquisite dolicaay in|the piano passages. Following it at the usual interval cume two violin solos, one being a nocturne by Chopin in E flat, transcribed by Kemenyi himself, and the other his valse " Noble." The nocturnd is invosted with the chastened molancholy so characteristic of Chopin in this class of musical work, and it received a highly oxprossivo interpretation. As for tho valse, it is a prettily quaint composition lavishly embroidered, and in its execution "the performer »howed off his great power in tho production of harmonics. Tho encore brought out a real gem in the shape of ; Kemenyi's own arrangement of " The Last Koso of Summer," which waspkyedensbanti taprly. Next camo his "introdnction" to and improvisation on that greatly hack neyed »ir, " The Carnival of Venice." It was a marvel of extravagant caprice and delicate execution, tho performer dis' playing in it some fantastic tricks of rapid fingering. In responding to tho usual recall with "La Marseillaise," tho talented musician rose to tho full height of his con summate genius. He fairly electrified his audience Jby the fervour of tho martial spirit which he infused into the well known strains, and as tho last notes died awuy the house resounded with thun ders of applause. The " Marseil laise" was undoubtedly tho gem of tie concert. Miss Downing sang very sweetly Arditi's waltz song, "Magnetic," and Gottschalk's " Oh, Loving hearts !" as well as "Annie Laurie," by way of encore; while Mr Hiramer was heartily applauded for a song by Millard, and Gilbert's " Maid of Dundee." He also tang as an encore song Schubert's " Haiden Eoslein." Both singers gave with admirable taste and finish a duet from " Don Pasquale." Mr Luckstone's contributions were a gavotte of his own in G flat, Ritter's " Courier," and Liszt's '• Rhapsodic No. C," all of which were played most excellently. The third concert takes place this evening

RUSSIAN ADVANCE ON INDIA.

AFGHAN TERRITORY OCCUPIED.

British Remonstrances. lliY CABLE,—COKYBIOMT.]

Lonhon, March 3. In the Houbo of Lord? to-day, Karl Gran- I villo Btated that the Government had re coived information that tho Russians in Control Asia, havo occupied tho Gulfikar Pass of Hindu Kuth mountains, and have advancod within a few miles of Panjdch, in Afghanistan. Sir Peter Lumsden, the British Commissioner on tho Frontier Ques tion, has advised the Afghans to resist any furthor advance on the part of the Russians. His Lordship added that the Government havo urged tho Russian Government to order its commanders to halt, and make no further encroachment on Afghan territory.

THE RUSSIAN ADVANCE STOPPED.

Sir Peter Lunisdcn's Action

Approved

The Innocent Muscovite.

London, March 4,

The Rsßsians havo ceased from further encroachments in Afghanistan, and have been dirocted te avoid any conflict with the natives. Earl Granvillo has approved of tho action of Sir Poter Lumsdcn, the British Com missioner, in advising the Afghans to resist. Russia professes a pacific attitude in the matter. _______

THE SOUDAN WAR

(or CABLIC.—COPYRIGHT,)

KASSALA CAPTURED BY THE

REBELS.

Sufferings and Massacre of the

Harrison.

London, March 4.

Kassala has fallen into the hands of the rebeltf, and 600 of tbe garrison have boen massacred. Tho inhabitants wero reduced 'to groat straits through famine beforo the town whb captured by the rebels. Expected Fight with Osman Digua. An engagement with the robels under Osman Digna is expected to take place on tho 20th instant. Indian Troops Volunteering for the Soudan. The nativo troops in Hyderabad, Bhopal, Putteala, and Jhond volunteer for service in tho Soudan. Arrival of Reinforcements at Suakiiu. Scakim, March 4. Reinforcoments of troops from England and India for Soudim operations are now arriving horo.

BURGLARY AND BLACK INGRATITUDE.

(11V TKLEOItAfII.—PIUSSB ASSOCIATION.)

Timaku, this day. I'atbiuk Ryan, of fraudulent bankruptcy notoriety, was yesterday committed for trftil on three charges of burglary from a dwelling. All three offences wore committed at tho same house—the first two on March 15, 1884, and the last on Jan. 30, 1885, and tho victims of all three were tho only per sons who had extended a hand to him when he came over from Melbourne in custody nearly two years ago. They had been his bailment on that occasion, and on his sub soquont release from gaol they allowed him to visit their house, and were bind to him. In theirabsenccatworkhebad forcibly enterod the house and taken a quantity of their jowellery, money, clothing, &c. The articles were only discovered on February 18 of the present year, stowed away in Kyan's house with a quantity of blankets, cricketing and lawn tennis clothing, horse covers, knivea, spoons, &c. A weok ago accused was convicted and summarily dealt with on various charges of stealing lawn tennis clothing, and ho is now undergoing eighteen months' imprisonment for these offences.

R.M. COURT.-This day.

(Doforo H. G. Seth Smith. Esq., R.M.) Judgments fou Plaintiffs.—Jno. Morrow v, F. Dyor, olaim, £1 Is <Id, ana costs Us; J. C. King v. P. Kelly, claim .-62. and costa £110s Cd; Johnson and Company v. Jamos Bassett, claim £6 5s lOd, and costs fil 16s; Devoro and Coopor v. Johnson and Sheehy, claim, £1 ss. and costs 199; L. A. Levy v. R. Jcphton. claim £18 las, and costs £2145; W. Dowden v. Weeks and Dower, olaim £21 St, and oosts £5 Cs; T. L. Maoky v. R. Softon, claim £22 4a 6d, and costs £5 6a; V. G. Hwlngton v. M. White. B. White, and C. Wood, olaim £13 la 5d (judgment as against C. Wood), and costs £2 18s; ApploFarm Company v. M. llobineon, claim £1 15s, and cos's £1 5a 6d; A. H. Glllmau v. T. Beod. claim £2 13s 2d. and costs 15s; M. L. Morton v. A. Hoywood, olaim £l,and costs £1 5s (id ; Brown, Barrett, and Co. v. W. Baker, claim £6125, and costa 19a; A. H. Jones v. V. Williams, claim £13, and costa £2 6s. Judgmknt Summons Cases.—W. Sloan v. J. Eiwin: Claim, flSllsod; ordered to pay amount In two weekly instalments, or 5 days. Boylan and Tanllold v. A. Robartnoa: Olaim, £6 ISs 8d; ordered to pay 20a per month, or 7 days' im prisonment. J. Jones v. W. Hainlyu: Claim, £15 16s Gd; ordered to pay amount in three oqiml monthly instalments, or 21 days' im prisonment. J. K. Davis v. J. Mnggolton: Claim, &2 33 6d; ordered to pay 6s per woek, or 0 days. J. Korry v. J. W. Churton: Claim, £2 4s 7d; ordsrod to pay 209 on March 21, balance os por wook 01 fi days. T. Slater v. C. Molatosh: Claim, £13 03; ordorod to pay amount in threo equal montlilyl instalments, or H dayß. B. H KeesinK v. J. Rocd: Claim, £11 Is; ordered to pay £10 in instalments *t 5s per week, or 10 days' imprisonment. It, S. Sandall v. Q. w, Bevan- Claim, £117s; ordorcd to pay 10s ncr week or 7 days.

OLE POLSON V. J. JKFKKBY.—CIaim, £11 Cs — Mr Bnrton for plaintiff. Mr Oeonge for dofoud ant.—Plaintiff nonauitod.

(Left sitting.)

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Before Messrs F. L. Prime alid D. O. Mac- Donnell, Justicea.)

Drunk.—Four persona wore punished.—Mary Richards, a young woman, disorderly, 10» and costs.

YiOLKNTAssAULT.-JameßSoilthwaaoharKcd with unlay-fully assaulting Putrick George Dowor with a broom, on board tho cutter Annfo on tho 3rd lnat.-Ser K eEnt Pratt said Mr Sowor was suffering from his ill-treatment ia the HospitaL-Romanded until Monday next Charge of Lakcenv. — Thomas Farrali a n? U£? J2. mn' M ?lsf rßS d,ylth stealing the sum of 9s from the till of Mr Mcllhono, of the Queens Head Hotol. on tho 3rd instant-Mr Madden appeared in dcfenca.-Sorgoant Pratt opened the case. -Ziliah Guildin#, barmaid deposed that prisoner and another your.Tmnn Sw2£ Inl?i* h0 ho*Ph about 1230' nn(i ealSdfo r drinks j they went into the parlour, but did not S?Jh«n? , fUlkßi ¥' B? or 108 in the till; the »& « a * llnd sho ran out >o sco whore the fire was. On her roturn she missed the money from tho Ml" the prisoner H aid he took the money FJMn.Jft'?f dd!? = «^ o«en Bo'e n n °Mr C I a wthe hotel. Ha always paid for what he had. He came back with Mr Afiller.-To "ho n. n mnn«heH nsTr Wm. a"d »b* did not ask iot the money Had trusted him beforc-Constable out is btt, ana said that was all ho tank dm « Mra M^ 7 * j°^ U F°"^ 16s upon Sfn Mrs Mcllhono said she missed 89 1, Tj felonious intention. By the Bench: Did not see Si™ MrTif 0 the mon °3 r--Mr Mcnhono said (Left sitting.)

WELLINGTON NOTES.

(7 1 YT K L i: UKA 1 .U-mvx OOKREBp . SB^i: Ah I informed you some time Balance proposes vieiting theSonthfe-i upon the business now neMMitatfa^o consideration of tho Cabinet being d'B *** of. His visit W iH b* » n conn^S matters interesting hi m as Mbw."- Lands. He will meet several half» ' associations for the purpose «Yd* °^P with thotn tho desirableness of formfoll^1'?" ciations for the settlement of hnrf«l?f "W Special Settlement Regulations. *?»§§ The Special Constabulary getti - Another emanation from thofortiiTv^ tho Minister of.Lands is his P ro3*g a military settlement upon whS^W with special inducement, men iMN been dismissed from the civil nSi^'3 and Armed Constabulary. The Mvi «?■-$! peesos a very observant faculty anrtW?"* noticed that where reductions haJatP made many of these men, who wrinij^6 times make first-class sett era: hawlMP colony. Withaview.thereftffi^ them hero, and with the further iJkr^S settling tho country, Mr BalUnce nTH to set aside land for a special 3*5 settlement, chiefly in tho neighbouKpf the central railway route and other rH$ works, so that settlers may find remuniS employment in the early strue^M duing the land. Tho land wKP into farms of between ono and (wobu&Sk acres, and the discharged men plaoMtmS! them upon a liberal deferred!mvK system. This is the proposal I refenSu!" some months ago when speaking onr wholosale reductions to take place w'ffi' ■A.C. force, and the proposed meth® utilising the labour of the men whosa J? vices were to be dispensed with, thSvl course the plan is matured and nerfSflj from the crude condition in which itSr when I last had occasion to refer to it, $? Parlhaka A.C. Camp Broken Jjp, Speaking of reductions in theA.C'fiii •ominds mo that the constabulary catrfi^l Parihaka, the centre of fanaticism2flt affection on the West Coast, was ndnffiF broken up, and tho men distributed imS tho A.C. camps along the coast. Why tho Hlnomoa Wife Not gont Tho change in arrangement* resristit, the Hinemoa is not due to vacillation o|tK Ministerial mind so much as to tie Itt coming to the knowledge of theMfo|2» of Marine that most of the VohmtewifflS posing to oome down had taken puum by the Union Co.'a steamer. Hethe&jSj thought it not worth while to seMil] Hinemoa for the remaining few. », '| Tbo Suggostoa Convention of Connii Chairmen. "™!« There appears to be gome doubtSt to whether the proposed ronvenftfis County Chairmen, suggested bySirJ«jfi Vogel in his Auckland address, tpiiftum tlie local government question, willllfi off at all. It is now in abeyance, bS Julius Vogel will make further litijiiiife during his Southern tour, and thshdecidi as to the desirableness of the coDvenfet The feeling of the Cabinet at prawn against suoli a convention. ' ?*«! The Treasurer's Southern Tew, -' Sir Julius Vogol leaves on Siin<li|fi Christchurcb, and will probably go bill Dunedin before returning to WeTjlnril and address a meeting there, if asked to i 80l tCSjj "Sir Xaxnach's Elevation, i * I am informed this morning tbera fej truth in tho rumour that Mr Latnach a \ be called to the Upper Homo before'ug session. Tho statement provionßly nsc wag based npon almost the but authorifr and if it turns out to be antruo, mm stated, I am not without suspicion & soino such rearrangement of portfolios % atone time contemplated by th« Cabinet Educational Requlromonti. I Tho Ministor of Edacation (Sir Stall devoting a great deal of earnest consider tion to the wants of country disii in the direction of aecomniodifil In order to meet requirements all arsj^j funds wEU be used, even to tbe last pew of the extra £5,000 vote of last MMtoiiiS greater proportion of the money wj§|[ spent in thoso districts which,, i the Minister's opinion, seemj^p to need funds. In this dietriki Auckland, Wellington, and Nil will receive the lion's shanj'ic&a each ; Otflgo, £500 ; West Coast, M Southland, .-£4OO. The balance will! divided in small sums among otyaS tricts. Resumed Cabinet Councfi^j.' Ministers resumed the Cabinet uK| 11 yesterday morning, and it COTttajl throughout the day. The Cabinet mi at II this morning, and at noon ffaoi a meeting of the Executive Council fot| purpose of confirming the tranwrnn the Cabinet. ■ New Police Arrangomonte.^l I understand that the proposal to wptn the civil police and defenco foroei &Ji colony, placing the former under ttafi diction of the Minister of Justice, of »M I informed you some timo ago, «illlt shortly bo given practical effeot to, >a

NEW ZEALAND UNIVERSITY SENATE.

hie benato resumed ye»teraay, m|; Professor Tucker's nomination having h» withdrawn by Professor Maogrcgor, vb had made the nomination proformafyM absence of Sir G. M. O'florite, eirJn* Prendergaet was duly olected to the \tx\ foliowship. A new scheme for the eraiM tions in geology for the B.A. DegiwMgS Honours was substituted for tlio regn 1*; tions now in force. The Senato wont alt committee for the consideration of aisheES for degrees in science. Progress ww ».: ported, and the Bonate adjourntJ

GOVERNMENT AID TO HOI SPRINGS.

(bt telkobaph—own cowitu hm>«m.) TbAboha, thii<i»y.;' Thb following telegram wm received by iff G. Wilson, Chairman of the fl-.t Sprits Domain Board, this morning from Mi r H. J. H. Elliott, Under • Socrotarjr, ■ Wsllinßtpi* ,— "On Mr J. B. I§|l recommooJatttn, Mr Ballsnco hn cm • sentod w grant an additional fIMI to the Board to be expended «r befjtij on Thermal Springs on the ■certasS of the Warden/ -This is ra» timely assistance towardß the fotjhtf development of these hot springs, mm are proving such a boan to ißralioi^ra source of attraction and pleasuretptMti*? The Board will now bs in a positiontt.; complete the additions to No. 3 tattoos provide a comfortable plunj,'o bulk fct ladies, disc. '.$?

The A.M.P. Society and the Mili tary Expedition to the Sondan.

In connection with the approaching ilfKj ture of our colonial force for active «jr»i» In the Soudan, we may mention that v*. Australian Mutual Provident SodirtyM moat generously decided to forego »11 «.'»*■: to compensation for the extra riekstnunicr their members serving in lower Egrftffliii necessarily be exposed. This dM™S|| the directors was conveyed to tbo Colon 1" Troasurer by letter dated 17th" instoaSjf; copy of which is appended. W^Jilp mention that it is customary for«'•*>; 6urance offices,under similar circumbtanw to chargo, not only a heavy war risk) W, also a heavy extra for residence, ™BjjsS| of the sacrifice made by the Societj *>?">'] thoroughly appreciated. We tru»t that w other colonial officss whose pou'oiMa»liW; : essentially indisputable will be ;~s|i emulate the spirit of generous aell-Baaaa which the leviathan Australian society«", manifested, and will offer similar prinJegO".; to their members. ' - 1 " Australian Mutual Provident | Socioty, w " Sydney, February 17,'W.;®1 " The Hon. G. R. Dibbs. "DearSir.-lampleasedto be nb><» roport that the directors of tabi* ()CJJL'| have resolved not to impose any **JpJ3jcs mium on such of our polioy-hdWjW^^ may take part in the Soudan W«i|| You may give what publicity you t1"11*^, sirable to this communication. 'p3p Society i« well known in Englsna.;.^ might think it worth while to cable »»»,. formation. I may add that tho usual ■»«■■ risk in England is £10 per oent. " Faithfully youre, "RICHARD TBECB, " Pro Secretarfi^il —" Sydney Mail," February 21.

TH^AtJcfcISND""' EVRNIjNG" STAK THURSDAY MARCH 5 1885.



THE SNAKE ROOT REMEDY FtJR RHEUMATISM andGOUT.-Thc CIMICIRJGA (ACT£» RaCEMOSa)oR BLACK SNAKE ROOT has been lono celebrated AS A RHEUMATISM REMEDY. THIS PREPARATION IS THE MOST CERTAIN IN ITS EJECTS. AND CURE. 6.. PER iOTTLE, AT MCWH'S. "iV\£ PHNRMKft," OVP-SUE BKHK 07 R.Z. OU-tH ST £I^soo. THE above amount now available for iminedlato Investment on Mortgago if good' Freehold or Leasehold Property. Early application necessary. W. V. STEVENS, Land Agon t, Qoeen-itreet (Next" Herald " Offlco). X AND TRANSFER ACT NOffICES. Notice Is hereby given that the parcel of Land hereinafter described will be brought under the! provisions of " Tho Land Transfer Act, 1870," unless caveat In the meantime *o lodged for bidding the same on or before the 2nd day of April next :— JOHN COMRIE—Lot No. 3of the subdivision of allotment No. 8. of section No. 7, of the Suburbs of Auckland. In occupation of Cbaek Bros. 2333 Diagrams may bo inspected at thia offlco. Doted this 20th day of February, 1885, at tho Lands Registry Offlco, Auckland. THHO. KISSLING, District Land BoßJßtrar. SALE 6F T. B. ROBSON'S STOCK.— 80-inch Heavy Wigan Shoeting, Is yard, at Rondell'a Brighton House, top of Grey-streot. O VISITORS TO WAOTOA HOT SPRINGS. Visitors to tho above Springs will find overy arrangement for thoir convenience and plea»uro. The above Springs arofamed for the Cure of Eye Disoases. Sco testimonials in Stab. F. STRANGE, Proprietor. •m/r C. YAXLE V, M.E.C.V.8., bags fo announce to the public that ho has commenced practice as Voterinary Surgeon, at ■ liiß residence in PitVstreet, near St. James's Hati. MR D. KEMPT, SURGEON DENTIST, i. Begs to inform his Patients that during hia tomwjtttry absence from Auokland his practice wM be carriod on By MrH. F. Windeob, who k w also mako appointments for thoso desinnp; Ttfr K.'b porsonal attendance on hia return. ■iirOLFE'S SCHNAPPS Is the mqet popular W tonic and stimulant in tho world. Beware ot imitations, TtlriSS J. O'HANLON, Artiste in every IVL kind of Artißtic Work. Terms for Pupils, iteiuding Materials: Wax Flowers (per lesson . o_Bd- Fruit da, 28 Gd; Imperial Marblo Work So,2sM: LeathorWork do., 2s Bd ; Metalican "jiatre Painting do., 2b Od. Not including MaterialsT Lacb Honiton (Point and Homan) Silk Embroidery (plain and raised). Crewel Wnrk Paner Flowers, BraidiDg. Beading, tSsed Wool Work, Beod Work Shell Worfi, A__UQ«el &c, each Is 6d per iesson. Miß9 ffHanlon is prepared to executo any orders nronwtly and satisfactorily. - Addrees: _OOiSbES'S ARCADE, Queen-street, and MISS WRKWB. North Shore.. , UCKLAND SOCIETY OF ARTS. c Fifth Annual Exhibition of the Society willopenon oFa-ont 16th April.. Intending ex hibitors and competitors for prizes offered by ttie Sootety. and-competitors for the two Silver Medals offered by Heir Carl Schmitt for Musical Composition, can obtain all information frOm JOHN L. HOLLAND, ; Secretary, Grafton Road. T>RIVATE BOARD anb RESIDENCE Vv_JfTED FOR AN INVALID GENTLEMAN iCCOM-AHIED BY A NURSE. A large airy Bedroom having fireplace, also a view of the iarbour, preferre_.-Keply, stating toras, &c, |p G.P.O. Box No. 587. bALH OF T. B. ROBSOJS'H STOUJi..— O Bwle'o Prints, 12 yards for 1b lid, at Ren- SeU'a Brighton House, top of Grey-street.



THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY, 158 AND ISO, QUEEN-STEBET, UISI'LAY THE LARGEST AND BEST ■ ASSORTED STOCK OS MEN'S, YOUTHS', rtnd DOTS' CLOTHING AND OUTFITTING CfLOTHING AND OUTFITTING CLOTHING AND OUTFITTING CLOTHING AND OUTFITTING IN THE CITY. THE CEL-ESRATE© HI ©$iil El> TWEEDS, MOSOIEL TWEEDS Whioh they wors tho flntt to iutroduoo to Made up Clothing, has bocomo FAMOUS A8 BEHNO THE MOST DURABLE AND WKAR-HEBISTING OF ALii WOOLLEN FABRICS. 'JSIK DHMAND FOR THEM GOODS Gontinnoa to Bhow a Largo Yoariy tooreast), I'lUft'lKCJ THAT IMPORTJED CLOTHING IS ALMOST ENTIRELY SUVMUBEDMU IIY TBK SUPERIOR eOLONIAt PRODUCTION. WITIIEFOKD'S AGENCT, SIIOIWLAND-BTREET. IMPOIWANT to SKLLEKS OF PKQMKtT.Y. J. H. WITHEFORD Beus to cull tho attention of those haying Pro perty For Sals to tho great facilities ho possesses for Advertising tho same, having tbii sole right to spaces at till Railway Stations in the. JProvin cial District, including Auckland. Newmarbet, Rrtnuora, Jlount Eden, Mount Albert, and tho varlons ports, terminuses, and stopping places, also sole right to advertiso oa North Shore Ferry Co.'a Waiting lioonis, City and Suburban Coaches, &c. Lists of Properties Fo» Salo will ho diaplayod in the most conspicuous plaeca at each of tho above imporbuit positions. N.B.—J*«iiSßjlsU will be post«d up on Uio l»t of each montbv&hd oftener if required. Particulars stiould bo forwarded before 28th. No properties accepted for which fancy p»ioeß are asked. J. H. WITHE FOU D, SHOIWIiAND BTREET. OREAT CLEARING SALE !!! i>KEVIOUS TO REMOVING TO NKW FREMiSKS. MILNE & OHOYCE Respeotfuliy beX to announce that in order to onter upon their New Premises (now ap proaching completion) -w*tli an ENTIRELY NEW STOCK, They havo decided to offer THE WHOLE OF THEIR PRESENT WELL-KNOWN TALUABLE STOCK AT SUCH A REDUCTION IN PHICK AS WILL ENSURE A SPEEDY CLEARANCE. EVER^ ARTICLE IS TO BB SOLD Tho Goods nro teeing bo rapidly Cleared Out that our Friends and tho Pubfi* are requested to G&JLL AT ONCE, TO ENSURE GETTING SOME OF MIE BARGAINS. PREMISES GLOSE ON SATURDAY NIGHTS AT 9 p.m. MILNE & CHOYCE, WBLLKSLEY-STREET. A TTENTION!! Owiva to REMOVAL TO LARGER PREMISES, AND BKINO OVERSTOCKED, WE SHALL CLEAR OUT AT VERY GREAT REDUCTIONS. Sea future advertisements. DONT FORGET. DON'T FORGET. PROSSER'S NEWTON BOOT WAREHOUSE, Uppkb Qwken-htbe-et. BALE OF T. B. fcOBSON'S 3TOCSK.— Nolaon Tweed Trousers, fls 6d pair, at Ren deH'B Brighton House, top of gray-street. T>REMISES OOLD. SALE or FURNITURE, CARPETS, BEDDING, Sec, &c, HOB A FBW WEEKS ONLY.. DIBOOCHT, 83 IN OWB £, AP IT ftOOKB, • Jll. \j 44 AKD 46, VICTORIA-STJRBKT, /^OKE. COKE. COKE. IJ£K AUCKLAND GAS COMPANY LTD.) Invite Orders for GAS COKE. Delivered within 1 mile of the Works, for Cash; longer distances at proportionate rates I— Sample Sacks of three buaheli .. Is 6d Five Sacks 6s 3d Eleven Sacks, or half ton .. ..Ha 6d Twenty-two Sacks, or one ton _ 22a The Company s COKE Is made from the best Greymouth Coals; is superior to that made from Newcastle coals, being free from stone and clinker to a remarkable degree, gives a RELIABLE FIRE, CLEARER & HOTTER THAN COAL. LIGHTS READILY, and MAKES NO SMOKE. GOOD FIRE IN 10 MINUTES. OFFICE: FORT-STREHT, GOES. GOES. OOHS.



To-morrow, at noon, R. C. Greenwood Bills at bis mart, Vulcan Lane, the we'l-known saddle ateamar City of Cork, and two comfort able i-rooraod cottagea in Howe-street, on good- Bized freehold allotments. A public missionary meeting will be held this evening in St. James's Hall for the purpose of welcoming the Rev. C. Murray, lately ordained by the Presbyterian Assembly at Chriijtchurch to labour in the New Hebrides. Mr T. Peacock, M.H.R , will occupy the chair; and Revs. J. Patteaon, W. Kvans, T. Mackenzie Fraser, and R. P. Macniool are expected to address the meeting. The meeting of the Trades and Labour Council, adjourned from Friday last, will be held to-morrow evening in Robaon's Booms, Queen-street.



W. H Fekton and Co , 7S, Queen-street, hav»just opened, ex Doric, v. choirs «p i«,h ... of the New Flexible French Fell? Ha£ Wb eh have all the appearance of a hard felt .at vet are soft, very light, durable, easy flttinp and of superior flnwh. Wo have ihem iis black browns, greya, and drubs, and in variocjahap<a: also, leather hat cages of superior quality Mercery Dopartracnt: We have received large assortment of Collars. Scarves, Bows, &o in the newest shapes and designs. Hats ana



A fruit and flower service will bo held to whr=£,ev.en«nß in 8t" Luke's Preßbytorian Sabr Revs. C. Murray, J. S. Hill, and W. S."Potte?! Messrs Beehun and Co. drannra. *.-. juncHonot Grey and Queen slrecKavoiu^



The only Cash Sewing Machine ;PS§§ D. S. Chambers.-lADTX.I