RANDOM SHOTS.

{By Zasiikl.]

■Some write, a neighbour's niuno to lash, Somo write—vain tliuiiKlit- for needful cash, •Homo write to plcuso thu cumin- cljisli. And raisa a ilin. I^or me an aim I novor faah— 1 writo for Inn.

"A HAIR of tho dog that bit you " way at >«no time accounted an infallible preventive against hydrophobia, and I suppose was ■just as sound in principlo as tho sinnlia similibus curantur jargon of latter-day ■Ginpiricß. Thoro is this difference, how over, batweon medical and political quackery, that, whereas the former aomo times effects a cure through tho "faith," "will," or "imagination" of tho patient, the latter never does good, but simply makes tho condition of the patient move hopoless than before. Bat, whether in medicine or politics, tho proscription of tho empiric is pretty sure to bo an agreeable one—tho pill is po nicely sugared, and in administered witt such an air of superior wisdom slid benevolent intoroatthat tho gttlliblo patient awallowa tt cheerfully, and flattora himself that thoro «a an immediate improvement in his condi tion. Tho dipsomaniac aftor a night's dobauch likes nothing bettor than a hair of *he dog that bit him ; as tho wise man put it centuries ago—"ln tho morning I will scok it yet again !" So with tho body politic when suffering from a sevore " chest " dis order causing great " depression" and diffi culty of breathing. It ia well-known that tho cause of tho disoaso ia tho introduction of a dirty " foreign " substance of yellowish colour into tho " chost," and the rational person would think tho proper course of troatment would bo to assist tho natural process of " throwing it off." But no { for ward steps our political quack, nnd with much eolf-assuranco informs us that tho disease must be treated on tho prin ciplo of "liko cures liko." To drop metaphor, New Zealand is suflcringfrom the effects of ovor-borrowing, and Sir Julius Vogol says the only euro is to go in for bor rowing on a bigger scale than over I And the worst of it ia that ho gilda tho pill with such Bpecioua reasoning, and makes Buch an assumption of supsriority in wisdem and benevolence, that I fear many people will bo only to ready to believe iv dim and his cure,

But in sober Barhostness it should only require the caso to bo fairly stated for people to eeo tho absurd and disastrous nature of the proposed remedy for the do prosaion. Ko doubt the renewal of th-j loan policy would bring hntnediato temporary relief to tho colony, but Unless it wore re newed in increasing doses tho succeeding 'depression would be more sorious than tho present. And tho effect of a continued policy of borrowing, public works, and pro tection, would be a limited community ■earning high wages, but crushed to death by the weight of taxation ; a nation free in name and prosperous in appearance, j bat in reality the slaves of the foreign bond holders, taxed to their utmost capacity, a i people whoso standard of living would steadily deteriorate, and whose accumu lated wealth would take more and more the shape of fictitious land values. The"mani foato " of the Colonial Treasurer will raise a clear issue for the electors to vote upon at next election, and the question, put in a nut shell, is—Borrowing and Protection versus Economy, Energy, and Free Trada. The universal depression is proof positive that borrowing is a broken reed unable to give permanent support, and the United States at the present time give an equally con vincing argument of the futility of Protec tive tariffs to secure the advancing welfare of the people I take no account of the schemes for re-purchasing large estates from " landsharks " and diverting rivers in order to search their beds for gold; theso are simply the sugar coating to the pills of Borrowing and Protection. The political quack, too, will demand a heavy fee for his advice unless the patient hs3 sufficient common sense to send him and hia pre scription packing. This is how, in fanci ful mood, I have pictured the colloquy between afllicted Zealandia and Doctor Vogel (if I were a comic artist I should represent the patient as a cripple, and the doctor offering her a pair of broken crutches, one labelled " Protection " and the other "Loan," while on the table we see a bottle labelled—" £8,000,000, and a steel boot marked " Intoreat") :—

Doctor Vogd (sagely)— H'm! Ha 1 Tho patient's rothor low; I really am surprised: The "chest" ia tight, the pulse i 8 slow, The limbs are paralysed. Your medicine done I ' fis that which stops Your breath and wastes your flesh ; I'vo brought you hero " eight million droKs" To start you offafresh 1

Patient Zealandia—

Yes, doctor, dear, 1 1 eel " all Rone "— An aohing void my chest ; I took your yollow dropa each ono. But still I feol depressed. I'll take no more, although my pain Might melt a heart of stone; Don't bring those crutches hero again— I'd rather stand alone.

Doctor Vogel (aoothingly)— Tut! Tut! You know that's foolish talk; Tbo " drops " aro vory good. And very soon will mako you walk And leap In happy nuod. These crutches and this nice eteol boob

Will bid your p<in be trono; With thoso on hand and that on foot I think you'll stand a loan!

(Asido.)- OI blunders I have made a tow, For whloh I would atone ; Omission and commission too (Don't rirtK that telephone!) Zoalandia, all my hope's I a you: I trust you'll stand a loan!

Zealandia (firmly)— No, doctor; all your skill Is vain To fill this aching void ; "Hiaexercise will cure again Thoso Hmba long unemployed. Free Trade, Koliance, Energy, To einoward to bonn Will bring back life, and soon you'll see That I oan xvalk alone.'

(Exit Doctor, taking his paraphernalia ■with him, which is what we may live to see, dear reader, within a very few months, followed by the complete recovery of Zea landia. So mote it be!)

There has been quite a small revolution in the household of Mr De Gollybung, a wealthy widower, residing in one of the southern suburbs, in consequence of that gentloman taking a second Mrs De Golly bung in the person of the erstwhile servant of a neighbour. Mr Reginald Montgomery Do Gollybung, whose employment in a large financial institution places him amongst the creamiest of theorems de la creme ia indignant beyond expression at his father's mesalliance, while the Misses De Gollybung,though sunk in the depths of most unutterable despair, contrive between paroxysms to mako matters uncommonly sultry for the new mamma. To Miss Angelica Gabriella De Uollybung the dis grace is the keenest, as it is not long since ah" resigned her teachercbip undet the Board of Education because so many " common girh wero joining a profession that should be excluaivoly reserved for ladies." "Zamiol" is inclined to think that if the younger members of the family will let matters alone, they will right them selves ; haughtiness and pride are eaeily leaint lessons when the conditions are favourable. Many fashionable Auckland mammas have in their earlier years de livered milk, had grim struggles with dusty carpets, sold colonial swipes, and perhaps even murdered Queen's English, and no one thinks any the less of them for what they were. Until in the colonies we have an aristocracy of intellect, a family's social position will be entirely guaged by the cash balance of the head of the house.

Keligious meetings are not usually re markably interesting ; etill at times, by accident or otherwise, there are gleams of humour, which like glints of sunshine en liven all within reach of their rays. An instance of this occurred at a religious meeting last week. A certain city mission ary was detailing the many benefits con ferred upon Buffering humanity by his efforts, and amongst a number of cases cited was one of an unfortunate individual who landed in Auckland sick and f riendlesa. Said the missionary, " I visited him before and after he was taken to tho Hospital, and I introduced our worthy chairman to him, and he also visitod the man, and then he died." As the worthy chairman was a minister with rather a melancholy visage, the audience onjoyed the equivocal compliment paid to his ministrations by the death of the unfortunate stranger. Thu missionary noxfc proceeded ta toll about a poor woman whom he had visited, and who, according to hi:) statement, " had juut been confined, und had nine children." This ex traordinary information was also received

with loud laughter. ore.'.vi of the all'air was that tho Rpcukor, being from tho "Land of C'u>.cb," was naturally bloMCii

with a lace that «'as as innocent of a tinile ill if nothing short oi a surgical opoi'fttion would mako him s-eo a joke.

And talking of things Scottish reminds mo that wo have tho national.thistle) very widely diffused throughout Hoti Zealand—too

widely to suit tl-,c poor farmer, or ovon amateur £,irt*ouers liko mypclf, The veneration of Scots for tho prickly emblem of tho national character (Kemo me impum laeessil) is something tremendous, Yon. remember what Burns eaid : -

TUo rou(?U batr thisUo api'oaitin); wide Ainonif the bearded bero, I turned tho wedor clips r-sidc And spanxi the symbol dear!

Barna was .1 goninn, and thoroforo was an unsuccep?ir.l farmer, but what shall I pay of sober Nov.' Zealand settlors who manifested a similar insane rogard for a "vegetablo" popularly Bnppoeod to bo tho favourite food of asses, but which is of ".'.o uso in a country whoro thoro ia nc fear of nn invasion of barefooted Danes ? I find that the thistle was introduced to this colony by a fow enthusiastic Scottish sottlcrs in Wellington district. Mr T. K. Mncdonald (an un doubted Scot, and Chairman of Wellington Woollen factory), in tho courno of his address at tho laying of tho foundation stono of the factory,supplied tho particulars of tho patriotic dexiu. It appears that among tho early settlors were somo Scotch men who got together ono Sunday morning and planted tho only thistlo which hud survived tho voyage out. Thoy started with a minister at their head, and thoy knelt and prayed ovor and blessed that thistlo that it might fructify and boar good fruit. Tho fervent effectual prayer of those righteous mon has availod mudl, r.nd tho thistle waves its defiant l'cuvea ovor ovory part of Now goalaiid. If that lirst thistlo has beer, "bloased," a goodfowofits progony have got contrary treatmont.

My readers of course romombor tho conun drum —"Why does'adonkeylikothiat-es?— Becauao ho ia a donkey !" And a love for thistles boing admittedly an ovidonco of. asinino nature, what awful asses thoso people must have boon who brought plants right round tho world and introduced Ciiem hero to curse our fuir soil!

So'.Ue thrco yoars ago Ebonezor was a promising young man about town, and being smart, plausible, and good-look ing, was a great favourite with eweral marriageable ladies distinguished as adopts on tho croquet lawn. Suddenly, in tho zenith of his popularity, Kbone/.or -was mis eing from tlie ranks of polite society, and he loft morothan ono aching heart behind him. Tho glad, buoyant Ebenezor had contracted debts—fast young men have this fashionablo failing—and he gavo his promissory noto for £50, at three months, to a patient trades man of Queen-stroot, duly endorsed, but whon tho noto beca'no duo, Ebenezor — light hoartcd creature as ho was — had flitted from hia honeysuckle-wreath abode in the western suburbs. He waa a young gentleman of easy and dignified manners, with, of course, great expectations from a maiden aunt. So polished was Ebenozoi's bearing that a less shrewd man than my Queen-street friend would hftvo ac cepted his parole d'honnciir.

Throe years paasod away hut no nows of tho prodigal Ebonezer, aud Mr M en deavoured to sit calmly under his supposed permanent loss, consoling himself with tho philosophic reflection, "I am not tho only victim of studied villainy in the world " One day last wook Mr ti was credibly informed by a friend that Ebenezor had succeeded to a goodly fortune. " His maiden aunt is dead," sighed Mr M . "I don't know," replied his informant, "but I do know that your debtor has property at Whangaroi, whero ho is comfortably sottled, for I saw him there with my own eyes tho other day. But he is evidently ashamod of his name, and has changed it." " I'll see aftor him," said Mr M , and he took passage tho next day for the pleasant neighbourhood of Whangarei. It is need less to say that he found Mr Brown, confronted him, and tho orving ono said, in tho language of Scripture, " thou art the man," " pay me that thou owest," and held tho signature under Eb's nose. "By Mose3, you've got mo at last; lam that antiquated youth," sighing in his old Auckland mood,

"Should auld acquantance bo forgot?" Thoy adjourned to an hotel, and Eb wrote out a cheque for tho amount with intoreat thereon. Mr M—— " shouted" for all hand?, and roturned to Auckland by tho a,a. Wellington a richer man by £50.

A horso-shoe in popularly believed (even among utter barbarians) to be an infalliblo charm to ensure good luck ; Admiral Nehon had ono nailed to thomast of hia flagship tho Victory, and I should havo thought that a cargo of ten tons of theso articles would have simply overwhelmed the possessor with good fortune But a cargo of horse .shoes has been the ruin of Ah Get, a Chinese merchant of Wellington, and tho old belief evidently requires revision. Ah Get is bankrupt; ho has told a plaintive talo of his bad luck to tho Oflicial Assignee ; aud tho burdonofhissongwas — "Thoso horseshoe.-;!" Old liorso shoos, it appears, aro worn in charms in some parts of China, and cetio •rally fetch good prices. It struck Ah (Jot that It> would bo a good thing to ship a quantity of theso articles to his nativo laud, and accordingly ho colloctcd about ton tons throughout tho Wellington Provincial District, and sent thorn to Hong Kong. When the consignment roachod that port tho market was found to be glutted, and tho agont was obliged to realise at a tremendous sacrifice. Poor Ah Got! With a deficiency of X3OO wherewith to faco your creditors you will doubtless feel that popular beliefs aro dolusivo and their application some what arbitrary. ■ If ono horse-shoe bo a token of good luck, it is only by the law of contraries that many horse shoes bring ill fortune.

Mea culpu ! and woe is mo ! A correspon dent tolls mo that I havo " sot all the Tauranga people angry by my remarks," said remarks being an incidental clauso in my last published effusions, wherein I re ferred to Tauranga as " tho starving town ship in the Bay of Plenty." In support of his allegation my anonymous friend for wards me a copy of the Tauranga " Evening News," containing a leading article of a column in length devotod to abuse of my humble self. Certainly if the " News" represents the feeling of Tauranga folks, they are very "angry " indood. Here aro a few samples of the style of tho article in question :—"Wo presume this is written for 'fun,' but it is a woeful specimen of the article, and to the journal that allows it to bo published in its columns. The whole paragraph J3 a vilo slander, and a pitiful exhibition of crass ignorant spleen. Writers such as'Zamiel.'with their ill-condi tioned and untruthful remarks about small struggling settlements, do an incalculable amount of injury to tho colony."

But let mo ask my irate critic—" Doest thou woll to bo angry ?" And lot mo roply in tho same breath—"l don't think you do I" Firstly, as to my remarks being inspired by " crass ignorant spleen," I can lay my hand over my watch-pocket and honestly say that I cherish no such foeling against a place which I believe to bo'truly rural and charming, but which it ha 3 never been my good fortune to visit. As to my statements being " untruthful, "J will Jot. my correspondent speak. He says: —"As a resident of the placo, I fully agroo with you so far that the place is poor and poverty stricken, but not starving. We are all well dressed, and I hope it is all paid for." There is here some confusion of ideas, however, which ex plains the wrath of the Tauranga people, especially as I find the same confusion in the misleading article I have quoted. It is assumed that 1 said the people were "starv ing " or verging on pauperism, whereas I only referred to the " starving township " as contrasted with our "rich city," end made not the moat remote allusion to the condition of the people. "The place in poor and poverty-stricken," my correspondent says, " but not starving "—which would be a dis tinction without a difference were it not that he evidently means the psople are not starv ing.

In point of fact, so far from there being any necessary connection between a " starv ing township " and a needy population, the reverse is more like the truth. In London, the richest city in the world, there are more deaths from starvation than in all tho sleepy poverty-stricken hamlets in tho world ; and in tho rich city of Auckland I havo no doubt thoro is moro real poverty nnddißtress than there ia in the poor town of Tauranga. And poverty is no crime in a community any more than it is in an indi vidual. Nor was. my remark regarding

Taurnncra made fneerinjily, I'iit rather sym patheticaUy. .1 deprecated a poor town straining its ivsomced for the fblvo c,f bciiig visited by a gassy leetvrer, and here again my CiiiTOjpoiirioii'. nib .tantially agroes wfth il'-u. li« writes.: -'■ U~u would all liaVo liliod to heai (i A.S , and you 'dughfc not to run ua down fur trying to not him. Now as we cannot, nocuu tru.-t 10 ourselves to do uithuui hhu. Our new Mayor is going to do tho trick, mid Tau ratiga will jump along. Wuare alt waiting for G.V.^. to come along and bii.ng tbo 1 railway. We will show you ii Trturahp.a U starving theii} your city oi Auckland, will: IniVo to play secon'.'. fiddlo to ufi," Thoro is just a HUlu toucli Ci" " gas ' about that railway and the second liddio buj'i iiosa"; but lot it pnw, (By tho way, iLie rather curious that U.V.S. would mako G.A.S. if tho middle letter wore reyorgud). I must ox press my acknowledgments to my corrc.s poiident, who again upholds tho truthful ness of my statoments. The "Nuws" de clares there never waa an attouipt raado to raise money for Sala ; tho nbovo extinct plainly implies that such nn attempt waa inado and failed. Tho "Nona" must ;.;o

from homo for its news ut'tei- this, or confer to "crass, ignorant spleen," or something moro objectionable still — wilful perversion of tlio truth. Ta ta ! Advance, Taurauga!

Since tho above was written, I havo como aercas the following tit-bit in the columns of tho " Tauranga Nowa " itself. "A moot of tho Directors o( the Clioeao Factory was hold on Saturday, to doviso ways and moans of paying tho long-suffering nnd patiout milk suppliers of last season. After a lot of talk nothing was dono, and tho unfortunate milk suppliers seem as far oil'us over from receiving tho prico of their last soaaen's milk." A town that cannot pay its last year's milfe bill, should not be insulted at boil's called ;'starving," but ought to mug dumb altogether, instead of presuming to tako tho position of Ursfc iiddlo in tho colonial orchestra.

"Zutniol" has never outortained a vory high opinion of the quality of tiro immi grants who during tho past few years liavo beon " assisted " from tho uhoros of " Hold Hingland" to i>.id in building up this particular portion of tho '" Empire on which tho eun never cots," and there have not beon wanting evidence.-) th/it theio is I'cm- Eidorablo luxity in tho mattor of selection en (.ho part of tho colonial representatives at Homo. If a story told by n garrulous old now chum at Mr Moss's mooting at Paruoll the other evening is true, it is quite an easy matter for undesirable people tosocuro free passages to tho colony ovon uudor thu nominated systom. li I know a gal who had been nominated," ?aid tho old gentle man, !' who wont to tho Immigration Ollico for examination us to lior health. Tho doctor refused to pass her, and what do you think sho did ? Why, sold her nomina tion paper for a fiver, and so Sarah Jones, instead of boiug v respoctablo servant gal in \\ (illiuj/ton, is now a lady of tho town in Auckland,"

MAHOMET IN NEW ZEALAND.

The I'i-opuel llcccivcs a Depu tation of the Unemployed.

His Viows aud PropoHals on tho Subject.

His Romarks on Dog fancying;.

[ISV OUB OWX OKIKKTAMST.]

As requoited, I acooinpaniod a doputation, consisting of ono or two of the unomploj od nnd a fcv; members of tho Committee- of Inquiry, who wailed on tho Prophet iv order to elicit his opinion on tho cause-) and cures for tiio want of work at prc-ent existing. Wo found Mr Mecca sontod in his usual stylo, whistling softly to himself ami playing with tho ear of hisi poor old dog Arubi. On marshalling tho deputa tion into tho room, tho Prophot gnvo a plight nod, and continued his whistling. Piqued by his careloa.s manner, I intro duced in succession Mr Bos.-> Emachnr, Mr W. (I. Oabbard, working; mon'a friend, aud Mr Thomaa Waller, a young man who is an especial irieiid ot himself. Thesu introductions produced little or no eli'ect on Mr Mecca's tuan-ior, and ho never scorned to grasp tho gravity of tho situ ation. After roceiving theao gGntlemon nith a slight bouF for each, ho turned to Arabi and said, " Old do;;, give us your opinion on tho unemployed question," Tho dog's manner instantly changed, and jumping upon an adjacent chair, ho acted Ida Sentiments on tho subject with such true histrionic genius that to beliovo what I have to tell, you had bettor go and sea him for yourself. Ho dropped his tail and oars, and wagged his solemn old head in a slow and heartrending manner, while ho shifted gently from ono foot to tho othor, and emittod at intervals long and swelling but suppressed bowk. Thefo roso in rognl.r cadences until they became ear-piercing aliriekit of woo, accompanied by a steady flow of hot salt tears which dropped at regular intervals from tho ond of his obony no.se. Tho sight of so much griof in "mich a good old tiling " drew tho involuntary water to my oye;1, but my wonder was increased and my tear.? dissipated in amazement when tho grief suddenly disappeared and lie sal up, cocked his ears, and begged. M r Mecca patted him on tho head, und turning to mv said, " You'll linda bit of toll'oe for him in ono of theso bags on your lott. Ho nlwnya exjjocU a bit after ono of hla tricks." 1 put my hand into ono ot tho bags indicated by tho Prophet, und advanced and offered a piece of totfoo to Arabi, who, trnicli to my burprise, rofusod to accopt it. " flh," naid Mahomet, " you've got tho wrong bag. Thore, that's tho ono marked I.T. Arabi in very particular." I got tho proper bag, and pulled out a pieco of toll'oo. Some (igiuTs on it caught my oyo, and 1 found il was atampod thus - ■■" £JK." Arabi gulpod down tho littlo swcotinoat, and prepared 10 continuo his littlo charade, but a sign from hia master caused him to desist. " You see," eaid Mr Mecca, turning to tho unin traduced portion of tho deputation, " that's a trick I taught him. It's amusing, aint it? Oh, he's a sly old dawg, und not tho only one in Auckland. I hear you are vory sue cessful in the same lino, and you manage to train your ely old mastiff, your bloar-oyod bull terrier, that will go for man or beast without rhyme or reason, and your nativo bred poodle, the cleverest strain for tricks. I say you manage to train all of thorn to a wonderful degree of perfection. Humph ! what a wondorful thing loj/'ce is !"

I ventured to remark that we had come not to hear his remarks on dog-fancying, but to olicithis opinion on thounemployed ques tion. "Quitoso,"horom;irkeddryly. ''Well, with my head-riuarters at Cairo, and direct communication with Sydney ovory «eek, lam not afraid to ghro you a candid opinion. I have come hero as a stranger, and I find a country with immense possibi lities, a tolerably good climate, and, from what I hear, possessed of lurgo minoral wealth and good agricultural prospects. I remarked as I took leavo of my numerous family relations, before setting out for this country, that if a portion of what I had heard about thoso islands wore tmo, evon Cairo itself must take a back seat. Making allowances for tho imaginative) colouring mattor suppliod by your agents, T find tho country and cliinato a good one. On tho other hand, however, I find something out of gear among,?!; tho inhabitants. Farming doos not pay for want of capital, and monoy is cheaper than evor it was, and leaving tho country because it finds no investment. Labourora clamouring for work, and tho work of centuries waiting to bo done. Thero's a screw loose somewhere. Thore's a sly old dog with a big kennel in Queen street that's taking all tho meat off the bono, and sometimes'two dogs can suck tho same bono and not quarrol; that is, if they aro friends. Now, that old dog will take a man to maator him, and he wants to bo taught a trick or two, but wo " had hotter let sleeping dogs lie " at prosent, and wake him up when we're ready for him. In tho meantime, perhaps ho may gain a wrinkle and mako his education easier ivhon we take him in hand. But we can't wait just now. We must find means to feed working men and their Tomen and children. Well, if there are amongst you any " aingle" ploughmen, I have a " tip" for them. Offer to work for current wages and take payment in tucker and land. Go to a farmer and say ' I am worth 30a per week and found. Give me a contract for plough ing ; find me my tucker, and I'll take out the balance of my chequa in land.' There are men in the Napier district who have made a comfortable fortune in a few yeara by following this plan. The farmers are willing to pay, but they haven't the money. Let every man that can plough, or fence, or drain, &c, &c., and who hus no family to sup port, adopt this plan, and leave a fovv billets for tho married men. Then lot tho others take any work that will give thorn tucker just now, and a cheque in bottor times. 'Half a loaf is better than uo broad.' Take tho half lo.if now, and wait for tho other half. No reason to reduce rate of wages, but take half rates now, and the balance at six months, with five per cent, interest added. Let your

Otuployora deposit with your Cominittoo osourity ovnr land, town sections, bouses, and iixed plant, snlliciont to provide for tho payment of the balanco of wages unpaid at present. Don't go stone-breaking; it's work only fit for machinery, and teach your sly old dogs that what ti>o country until: i.s nob Has, but currency. They'll know what that uitiana. The toll'eo will do tho rest." Tho l'rophot having paused for breath, I ventured to ask him in what part of Q'leen- Bticit tin lKinnol ho roforred to was eitu'ited, p.n ' should Iniiifj iho 'natter under thu notice, "t iho municipal autiioritics, and hovu such a source of danger at once re moved, " Tho boy's a ' huss!'" ho oxelaimod ■v. ith {,'i'oat excitement. "Why, it's tho monoy-lendors." Hero Arabi jumped from his seat and rushed at tho wainscoting of tho room, aempinpf, scratching, and whining most ex citedly. "Como here, como !ioro,"aliouted Mr Mecca, "you'll pull tho innn'ri houso down!" and bo rushod baekuard-i and forwards trying to "collar" his favourite. After considerable physical exortiou ho succeeded in catching tho dog and, carrying him back (o the sofa, mado him lie down. " Oil!" exclaimed tho Prophet, wiping his dripping pnto with his loosely-cut Eaatoni sleovo— " ILo'a a splendid dog. Ho emolt a rat then, and 1 might have had to moot a bill of tlio landlurd's for damages to his house if I hadn't stopped Arabi. Oh, he's donth cm vermin. Never mind,'1 continued tho old man, patting thodog'ii hoad, "if tho rat doesn't beat a retreat wo'll take tho wainscot oil'and lot you have a dart at him. Oh. it's so hot!"

Hero Mr Bosif Smachar blandly whis pered in my oar that tho deputation might now retire with graco, and, bowing our furowolls, wo left tho old man to rocovcr from tho oliectg of his lecturing exertions.

Prince Alexander and the Bulgarian Question.

As many persons uro awaro who wore pre sent at tho marriage of his brother with tho I'i'iiicods Beatrice, tho Princo is (says tho "London Globo") an oxtromely handsoma man, of powerful but not uiif;racoful build. His features arc rogularand fiuoly chiselled, his boaring id military ; his manners towards 3trang6ra uro dignilied, yot polito. Although young, his attainments aro exton sivo and varied, and ho is especially interested in all that rotates to antiquities. Thoru aro some very old Slav tombs near Samarow and Gabrowo, and tho Prince, desirous that their origin and probable date of construction should bo Investigated, presented tho munificent donation of iOO,OOOfr. to a ltarnod society at Moscow for that purpose, on tho solo condition that any curiosities brought to light should be exhibited at Sofia. Tho Bulgarian people huvo ehewn their gratitude to their iirst independent ruler by orcoting for him in tho late Turkish quarter of tho capital a residonco of a some what peculiar kind for tho head of an ambitious, if not as yot very important, State. It consiats of a rudely-constructed ono-atoricd building, differing little from tho huts of tho ordinary inhabitants, savo in respect to iU superior cleanliness. Tho furniture is simple though tastoful, and in no way such as ono would oxpoct to lind in a princely abode, but rather in tho modern dwelling of some well-to-do citizen. Tho Knoz, as the Bulgarians call their sovereign, hus resided hero with few and short inter vals of abaoneo since tho your of his election to the throno (IST'J.i. Tho house contains three sitting-rooms, one reception room, a

study and a bedroom, At thu back of tho courtyard are two eurvauts' rooms, an apartment for Dr. Stojloy, tho Secretary ot Stato, and same stables. This completes the morothan unpretentious Stato residence of L'liucoAloxaudor of Bulgaria, Tho hout-o bold of l'rineo Alexander is very limited in number, as tho accommodation for their use abovo referred to shows. Thoro aro four aervauts, ull of the stornursox—(jßimans— rthom (ho Prince brought with him from his old homo in Hosso, besuioaa lull porter and tho iUsto Uaja, who is a martial-looking Montenegrin, with smartly turned upuious taeho. Tho aides do-camp aro loruicr com rades o[ hi^ lli^hnesi, tlio most prominent amongst tlwm being Karon porviu, who woa enptain of tho company in tho Prussian Garde du-Corps, in which tho l'rinco surved as lieutenant. A friend of bid boyhood, llerr Mengena, occupies thu position of private secretary to tho l'rinco. Tho life of his Hiybnej-T> id ono of almost uninterrupted work. From ninoin tho morning until mid day ho roeeivo-J hi.l Ministers, in tho alter noon military matters aro didcueded, and

itlJotn aro tlio ovenings froo for rccieation.

At tho court of i'rinco Alexander, if court it cm bo termed, thoro U observed neither tlio etiquette of tho Ka.-t nor of the West. It ia simply a military t-ocioly whore coromony is little thought of, and ndmiaoiou i^ easily to bo obtained. As there U no aristocracy amid tho Slav peoples oi tho Balkan.-', there ia no mark of distinction boyond tho possession of a, lessor or greater store of roubles. Consequently every Bulgarian has a right <>( freo speech with" his ruler,and this light, wo may add, ho w fond of exercising. i('or tho hittor there id o:im slight drawback, howovor, to tho complete succots of this boiuUful domociHtic system, namely, tho want ol poMonal cleanlinosd :m tho part of his loyal .subjects. Thud it, ha]:pi)ns that, tho janitor id ofton nhliged to rofuso admission to tho bearers of petitions or complaints on account of tlioir

Hipoiishtd appearance.

Tho ontranco of tho L'lovna regiment into Solia on tho lith October is thus dosciibod by the "Times" correspondent:—" Tlio ontranco o£ tho l'lovna regiment, y.b'OO strong, into Solia yeatorday afternoon was, like that of tho H'iddin rogiuiont last weok, nn interesting rather than an imposing military spcctatlo. Tho rogimont had murchod oO kilometres since tlio morning ; tho day was warm and tho kit heavy, and consequently tho mon woro not in parado condition, though looking fairly iroeh uftor thoir long tramp. Tho Kussian Intondanco had shod tho Bulgarian infantry with long hoavy boots reaching aomo inchos above tho knoo, as used in the Russian army. Tho Bulgarian soldier, accustomed from childhood to oxhido sandals, worn over thick woollen socks and folt swathing, finds tlioso boots vory fatiguing, and thoyare i» bo set asido, sandals being adopted. Than tliofo nothing can bo cheaper, lighter, or eusior to tho foot. iMoreovor, a spare pair or two aro easily carried, rollod in an overcoat. Notwithstanding their boots, tho men ftrodo along in tho Kussian stylo, with a long, swinging atep, much longer than tho Turkish stop, which, though loss showy, is much loss fatigu ing. Tho mon woro solid, halo-looking follows, but singularly ill-favoured of countenance and awkward of figure. Each drottschinc, or battalion, of which tho regi ment has four, has its band, which marches immediately behind tho drummors, just as in the Kusehn regiments. But tho Bulgarians sing their rudo melodies on tho Turkish scale, in unison only, whilo tho Kussian sing in four parts, often with a strange sweotnoss. Scarcely any oilicors woro to bo scon, but tho gonoral appoarunce of the troops fihowod that discipline was maintained. Tho Bulgarian mind is essentially orderly and stable, preferring to bo ruled and obodiont to no Ihghty impulse. Tho value of this quality was strikingly oxhibited in tho precision, celerity, and orderliness with which tho army, suddenly bereft of all its officers abovo captain's rank, has been mobilised and marched on wards to tho frontiers. Ab tho Widdin regiment drew towards the point whero Genoral ISiciforoff, the War Minister, and his staff awaited thorn, tho crowd cheered lustily, and tho Bulgarian maidens tripped between the rank?, deftly flitting in and out and distributing llowors among tho men." Lord Salisbury on October 7th spoke on the Bulgarian quostion as follows :—"ln tho first piaco wnat has taken place lias not ro stored what was called tho ' Big Bulgaria' of tho San Stofano Treaty ; and it was the destruction of tho 'Big Bulgaria' of tho San Stefauo Treaty that was part of the principal business of tho ambassadors who assembled at Berlin. Remember that when the Berlin Treaty was signed those pro vinces were occupied by a conquering army. Alao remember that, if Eastern Koumelia had then been handed over to Bulgaria to form a part of a united State, its future political growth would not have been that which the charaetor and history of the inhabitants would necessarily and naturally cause. It would have been that which would arise from the influence of a conquering army still bivouacked in its midst. That conquering army Las rotiroi ; seven yeara has passed away ; a separate, distinct, and genuine national character has boon formed; and although Ido not doriy that I think it would have been more fortunato for Europe and for the Eastern koumoliaim thonidolvos that this evont

should not havo happened, atill I utterly douy that tho provisions of the Berlin Treaty havo been destitute) uf the highest benoh'cent oftecta. I say that, if thoso two Bulgariaa aro in the future to duvelop thestreugth, character, and idiosyncrasj' of a nation, it will be due to the cure which Europe sxerciees over their cradle."

SPORTING.

RACING FIXTURES.

ntahuhu lt.C. Spring Dooombsrli) Thamea J.C. Summer December 28, 29. Hawko'H liny .1.0. Summer t)to' 2b Auckland RUSiiT.mcr Doc. 20. Jan 1, 2 l'.ikc.;o f»ae.;B Docembur 23 Canmrbury J.C. Suiumur January 1, 2 Northern J,<\ Hummer January 8. 0. Hoieiidville Turt Club Mcetiai; January 21)

DATES OiT NOMINATIONS AND ACOISPT

Accopwniica Oialiuhii aiirin^ Jlootin*!— Deuembor 12. Nominations principal oventß Kortliom J.L- Suinmnr Mootlnpr-Uooombcr Hi. Xominaiiors for nil handicaps Northern J,C. MootU'K-DccomborlO. Final pnymonki Auckland Cup (lOsavi), and accopt^nciHiiunlloliaco a»d ChristmasHiindl oao—tlocember 23. Oonoral entries and aceoptnnoos Auckland Summer Meeting—December I^.

To Correspondents.

INQUIBEH.-Mc P. Rntlcr's'lTt in, who ma at tlm IJuuodin S riiu MnotiiiK, was KOt by llmket from Honxa (tho dam of Cindorola.) TiiENTos.-ProKrcßsnevor beat Grand Fluneur, v,->io ri'tired l>om tho turt unbenton, having wonewlit l-icoaas a three year-old, and ono (tha N'oraianby BOaken), an a two-yoar old.

Nokth Shokk. — When Oranvillo won tho Kiceploclmso at this V.A.T.C. April Mooting 1 lit your ho carried 1(U lib, Native 10)t 71b, and Cl'ironeo 12st 3ib. Tho raco was run twice through the horses going the wrong course, and Granvlllo won on ench occasion. Waoku.—(l) Wolcomo Jack carried 7st 8!b whon he won tho Auckland Cup. Tho hlßhoat vveinht yet carried by the winner wai in lt>7B, whin Ari)l won with B^t IMb. (2) Goorgo AV'illiama luib ridden tho winnor In auccosslon. Wo aro unubio to atato what ho will ride thin year.

NOTES BY HIPPONA.

Tub Auckland Racing Club Sumraor Moot ing gives promise of turniug out the most successful gathoring yot held under tho auspices of tho Club, and thoro will doubt less bo fiomo oxctllont racing witnossod. By thoiniddlo of next wook, tho romaindor of Iho foreign horses who oako part in the gathering will have put in an appearance, and a visit to iUlorHlio at early morn will be worth tho journey out. Next Friday, tho first forfeit for tho Dorby and Cli'Oftt Northern Foal Stakes, and general entrioa for tho whole of tho evonts of tbo mooting aro due.

Mr Cloorgo Uowao'a handicap for the Dunedin Cup made ita appearance in tho early part of tho wook, and with the Auek land and Wellington productions of Mr Evott beforo him, it was only natural ho should tnako a good compilation. The best nine I take to bo Hermitage (7et Sib), Captain Wobater (7st 81b), Everton Lad (Vstolb), Administrator (Sat 51b), Fusilade (7st 101b), Lochiol (Bat), Lady Emma (7at !)lb), Sou'-woßtor (7et 101b), and Trenton (9st 101b).

Tho Now Zealand Stvid Company have fixed their annual ealo of yoarlings to take place at Sylvia Park on Monday, 4th Jan uary. Thirty-live youngeters will bo aub mittcd, included a full brother to Nordon feldt.

From Cbrintchurcb I learn that tho Hon. W. llobinaon's miich-talked-of Oudoia haa boon sold in Molbourno to Steve Margate, a rough vidor who broaks in horsoa for tho Victorian Constabulary The prieo paid was l!ssovs. It ia etatod that tho colt broke down badly in ono of his fore logs somo titno ago, hence tho salo.

Kumour hath it in Melbourne that the followera of Coffey's dtablo havo become heartily disgusted with the ropoatod dis appointments by Welcome Jack, and have sent to Mr Pilbrow n request to havo the horse transferred to Now Zealand. It is uot jot known whother Mr l'ilbrow incondn acting upon tho advice given, or whothor ho will make another bid for Buccess baforo feuding for such an oxpenaivo customer as thu son of Traducur and Misa Flat has been of late.

The woll-known poncillor Mr .). K. Poolo arrived from Sydney by tho mail atenmur this wook, and is already "doing battlo" on tho Auckland Cup and Stooplechaso. A hurdlo raco botween Mr Sheenan's Midico and Mr lii^gins's Secretary caaio oil'last week on tho Hoathcoto raoecoureo, Tho luatel) was with I let up for ono mile, over eight (lights of hurjte?, for 50-iova a sido, Secretary was the favourito. but camo to grief at tlio liret hurdle, and l>. Mitcholl, wlu was riding, received somo nasty cuts in tho face. Medico, jumping in good stylo, then cantered round and won.

A. Suthorland, tho well-known local horso mun, roturued home by tho s.s. Tarawora this week. Tho Southern knights of tlio pigekiu, J. Kean and W. White, wore nlso pasaengora by tho same steamer.

Tho Korthcrn Jockey Club (Whangarei) have iesued a most attractive programme for their Summer Meeting, which takes place on thoSth and ilth January. Nomina tions for all handicaps closo on Wodnesday next, and Mr W. W. Robinson will receive Auckland entries.

"Sir I.auncolot" says to sco Trenton nj one would think that he had gone through puch ft sovero htrugglo as tho Melbourne Cup, and ho ia still what that good judgo " Augur " termed him—" tho bean ideal of a thoronglibred horpo." Tho yearling colt by Robinson Crusoe Snnshino that Mr (J'Uiiou purchased in Molbourno, my mil fit n deseribod as a nico nuggoty brown, and anticipates that ho will he ono of tho "big little" sort with jilonly of quality and power.

Tho liawko'd Bay Jockey (Jluh li'wo re ceived 1H nominations for tho Hastings Handicap of SiiOisova,, 'J miles, run on Box ing Hay, vi«, Clyde, Mystery, Napier, Liberty, I'earl, Soudan, Tho I'oot, Elona, Speculation, Mits Agnoj, C'logn, Director, Tho Laird, Bonny Wink, Waitiri, Chris Una, Killcman, Now York, and Salisbury.

Ugly Buck has again changed hands, and is now tho property of Mr Thomas Smith, the Wellington sport, who also owns Son Gull

" Actacon " Roloct*Stonoyhurßt or Soudan to win tho Auckland Cup.

The raoniboH of tho Victorian ring com plain bitturly of the dilatorinosa of backers in nettling thoir accounts ovor tho lato V.U.O. Silting Mooting. Tho owner of NowHtoad has boon " postod," and it is stated that other South Australians aro likely to be placed on tho board. Tho set tling in Now South Wales has also boon un satisfactory, and on tho whole tho balanc ing of accounts in Sheet Anchor's year will be romombored as tho worst that has occurred in Australia for eomo timo.

Mr R. Kay has placod Loon in tho hands of ,1. E. Pilbrow, jun., who will train tho son of Lcolinus for his futuro ongago monts.

Tho three-year-old colt First Chester has beon blistered, and it is said that tho big raking son of Chester and Mario Stuart will soon bo as good as now again. Tho Secretary of tho Australian Jockoy Club has sons notices to all horeoownera nominating for thoir Boxing Day Mooting that rule 75 rolating to jockeys' dross will be strictly enforced, and any rider appear ing in soiled colours or without proper jockey costume will bo fined, and a ■ ■ i»' l» imposod also on the owner of i! '. ■ This is a rule that I should like to a, ~. strictly enforced at tho Auckland Summer Mooting. The whilom Tasmanian steoplochasor Colobrook, who was purchased a littlo timo time back by Mr M. Loughlin, of Ballarat, died a few days ago of inflammation. Tho racing mare Minerva, by Mari byrnong from Aruma, winner of tho last Wugga pup, has joined Mr William Forres ter's string, and will in future be trained at Warwick Farm. Speaking of Mr Evett's handicapping in tho Auckland and Wellington Gups, tho Whanganui scribe "Flaneur" writes: — Thoro is an apparently tender vein running through all Mr Evett's handicaps for tho horsos of a well known confederacy, and tho public aro beginning to say nasty things about the coincidence.

ThoCommittooofSydneyTattersaH'sClub have lately had undor their consideration a disputed wager of £5,000 botwoen Mr R, A, VVatson, a Sydney publican, and Mr P. Glen nister, tho well-known bookmaker. The wagor indisputewas over thodoubleNorden feldt and Sheet Anchor, and alter a longth ened investigation of four hours, the Com mittee decided in favour of Mr Glennister.

Tho racehorse Don Quixote, who recently returned from Mauritius, where he won all before him, was offered for sale at Melbourne on Wednesday, and passed in at 325 guineas, being 75 guineas lees than the reserve.

T. Oiborne, the recently-arrived English jockey, has commenced business in Victoria as a trainer of racehorses, His headquarters are the stables formerly occupied by the late Richard Rowe.

Curonet, tho hero of the last Nowraarkot Hnndicap, has been sent to Adelaide, whero ho will in future receive his preparation. That English wagering by " betting to figures " differs very much from what we in Australia know of is shown by the prices quoted at tho start of the raco for tho Cesare witch S'akop. 'Ihero wero twenty-two runners, and after tho most fancied nine, two of tlvj candidates Mood at 100 to 3, one was al :v> to 1, and another at 100 to 2h. 1,000 t-j 1 j viau ollerad iigainet threestartor.s; 100 to 1 against another, and 1,000 to G and 200 to 1 were the prices offering against the remainder

THE AUCKLAND CUP.

Past Porformanoos of the Acceptors. Tui! following ia a list of the previous por- • formancea of the horaes who accepted , for tho Auckland Cup, and at this juncture thoy will no doubt provo int3rosting to my real ore : - TASMAN, Aged, flat, Gib. 1831 B.'. Geraldino.—Won Maiden Plate; won Ladies' Canterbury Spring.—Second in Metropolitan Handicap (Oat 121b), won by Chnncollor (Bal 71b). Dunedin Spring. — Unplaced in St. Andrews Handicap (Oat 131b), won by Chancellor (3st fltb); won President's Handicap (fiat 121b) Voluntcor (8a! 51b) seoond, Cbanoollor i 9 t lib) third. Oamaru Spring —Second in Oamaru Handicap ("at 51b), won by Chancellor (9 13ib). Invorcargill.—;eeond in Cup (7s'). won by Volunteer (flat); wrai J.C. Handicap (7st 711)). boating Adamant (Sat 21h). Heotnoote.—C tmo In llrstin Cup ("at 31b), but wna distanced for running insidn a post; Non pat-nil (Gat!) b), lin'shed sooond, Chuocollor (flat 51ti) tnlrd. Dunedin Autumn. -UnplacedinGupllist 101b), won by Lady Emma (Tat Gib): second in J.C. Handicap ("at", won by Lady Emma (Sat in); won Mandevillc Plato (lit 121b), boating four others. Oamaru. Autumn.—Won J.C. Handicap list Gib). Canterbury Autumn.—Won Epsom Stalioa (Sst Ollr. Itowal Daes.-Won Springllold Handicap (Bat 'Jib. Tlmirn,—Second in Cup (Oit. 121b). won by Envy lllly (Git 2th): second in J. C. Handicap (Oat J3ib', won by Libeller (7st IMb). ISS2-83. Goraldlnc.—Won lt.C. Handicap (7st 121b), King Quail ("at Hlb) second, Mir Modrod (flat 2.1)' third: third, in Cup (Sal), won by King Quail (Tut. 131b). Welcomo Jack (JslSlb) sooond. Canterbury Spring.-Unplaced in J.C. Handi cap (7st 101b). won by Welcomo Jack (Gat6!b) ; won Grand Stand Handicap (7at 121b). Uuninru Spring —Won Oamuru Handicap (Sat 81b ; won Grand Stand Handicap (8;t0Ib). Dunedin Sprinjr.-Won Spring Handicap (Sat filb), Ghana (Git !)ib) second, Soinnus (Bat 2ib) third. CautorburySummor.—Sooond in Chrlstchuroh Cup (7s-, lllb). won by Hundoora (83t31b); won Spring Handicap (-let Tib). Wellington Summer.—Won Hutt Park Han dicap (Sat Sib), boating Hippodamia (7at 21b) and throe others; won H.O. Hindioap (Sat 101b), boat ing Tito loot (Sat 31b) and boulo (Bst 71b). Dunedin Autumn.—Unplaced in J.C Handi cap (7at Kill.), won by King Quail (78t 51b)j won Flying Handicap (Sat 21b), beating Sir Modrod (9-t 21b) and tour others Uamaru Autumn.-WonOup(Bat 121b). beating Envious (7at 1) hi; won Autumn Handicap (Sat 31b). boating Marchioness Niel (Gat fllb). and Envious (7 1121b); Bocond in St. Patrick's Han ■ dicap (flat Gib), won by Violin (Gat). i Canterbury Autumn.—Second in Autumn Handicap (Batslbl. won by Wolcomo Jack (Bat lib), Lady Emma (Sat lib) third. tlimaru.- Won Cup iflat), booting Sou'wester (list olb), Lady Emma (flat), and Luna (7stl2lb); laatof threoin the J.C. Handicap (flat 71b), won by Sou'-woEtor (Gal 71b). Lady Emma (Bttl2lb) aoeotd. 1883-81. | ' Goraldino.-Won I!. C. Handicap (Bst lllb), i beating six othcra; won Cup (flat 21b), boating i Taiaroa (7st 51b), Tho Poet (7Bt 31b), and thteo others. Canterbury Spring.- -Won N.Z. Cup (Ost Gib), • hentivg Nonsense (7at 12). Tim Whifllor (7st 121b). and nine oihir<. Asliburton Spring.—Won Cup (flat, Gib) beating Violin (Gal Jib) 'i'ho Poet (Gat 121b), and live olhirs. I Dunedin Autumn.—Unplaced In Dunedin Cup . (flat 61b) won by Lnrtv Ki»mn (SV 51b) July (7st till) second, S_.u'-wea;or (Gat. 10ib) lliiid; won 1 Marshal Voino'rial Sialics (flat Jib),bealingLady l Emma (flat 21b) and The Poet flat lib). 1 . Canterbury AlUtlmn.—Unplaced in Groat , Amu on Hundioap illat 51b) won by Vanguard (Sat 31b), Hippodamia (Gal 71o) aocond. Lidy ' Emma (flat lib) third; won Eaa or Handicap (flat 51b), beatin,' Nonpcngo (Sat Gib), Hippodamia (Gat , Dlb). and eight others. Tlmaru.—W'jii Cup (flat 21b), beating Sou ' westor (7at 121b), Lady Km ma (Sat 121b). and (our others; won J.C. Handicap iflst Glh), beating j Sou-wester (7st 131b), Lady Emma '8-t lllb) and , Varguard (Sat 101b). , 1881-85. . G-ra'dino.—Third in Cup flat fllb), won by V ungual- ' (fldtrdn). The Poet (7at 2lh) second. 1 Canterbury Spring.—Third in Canterbury tup ) (w f. a.), won by Welcome Jack, Black Hose , atcu.d. Canterbury Summer.—Unplaced In Mtdsnin -1 mer Handicap Ifl.t 71b) w Jit oy Wapiti (Gat 71b). Wollinvt-'n J O. Meeting. -Uni-laced in J.C. ; Handicap Iflitfllb). won by I igrodin, (7at lllb). .. Wellington lt.il. Summer.-Won Wellington , Cu->. Ua-. Gib, i miles, 3min. 38acc„ baaiing Tigredio (Sat 3'M, Sou' wntrr |B*tslb). The Poet |7H Sib), and A-mnurer (Gat 121b); second in H.C , Handicap, (ICiit 2ib), wen by Administrator (Kgt : siid. 3 Dunedin .' u'umn. -Wen J C. Handicap,'.lst • 81b, IJ miles. .'1 i,in. teJa.'C iVntlntt Son'.wcstcr (Sat 21b), Captain Web'tor IGat !)))>>, Lady Km ma ' (Sat lib), July (S tliih). Po-t( at lin ). ard Wapiti , | Gat 131b). t loSa-85. Canterbury Spring. -Soeond i-i Canterbury 3 Cup tfl-t. Gib) (w. f. ».). w.,n by S:onejburnt l7ot ; Olb) Hetniltngu iTalfilbl tliird.

TURQUOISE, Gyrs Sat lllb. ISSI-82.

Dunpdin Autumn. — Third In Chanicnens Stake*, won by Nn R--HBO. Vnnxunrd second; aoemitl in City t takes ("it lO.b), won by Non tense IBst 2lb). Canterbury Auiuni-.—l'nnlacod in Nursery HaiuliciUi (7st LOlD), won by BiCß!n |Bjt 12lb). l8«2-83. Goraldiuc. — Seroad in Sluidui Plato, won hr Welcomo Jack ; wou Vlyiiu Handicap (7st 31b1. ltnn.lof.—Won Gup (7af. fl'b), boating Hol dornesa (Tat 131bl. (vine Quail <Bst 12 b(. and fovir oth- r<; wou Publicans' Handicap (flstl, beatiUK six other?. Canterbury Sprlnr. Knrlncod in J.P. Hnndi car (Int S:lii.won by Welcomo J.ick (list SHO; i>o ond In C'onaolalin Sinsos (TsttOlbi, won by Ili'dn (Ssl '21b). Aaliburton. ■ Second in Cup (Bst 51b) won by Wi-lcn-no .luck (Sit, rill,) : won X C. Handicap (!1.-i ). K'atinv two olhors; won t'lyinu Handicap (9tt!>b). JMir.ntlln Spriiiß: Woii St. f ndrew's Handi cap >7iil S bl, Ijii-U Kninm (.Sit Mb) fiooord, Ada mniil. litl 1-'U>) third ; mm Pro>idonl'a Handti-np (Tfl iOlli): *on Miimhoru' WHtcr ll'indienp lilit Illi', nituna St tillil second, Soim us (3at Olh) third. IW3BI. Cantorbnry Sprint; Unplaced In Nnvv Zt-a lunii Cup [i I lib), won by 'laaHian (34 9lb) Non lonro ITM IJIIi) Ki'-ond. Tim Whilllor (7at inih) ' th'r.l: thir.l in Sl-'wa-da"-^lhUor (Sst IH.b , iron liy Mi.-cbief (!lai I I:). Hyacinth (Tst. 10 111 eticond ; thirri in Mntropnlilnn Handicap (B,t lib), won by Mlach'ef (Sat.H1-!. Tim Whlflli<r (7nt !l.b| socond. ISSI-S5. Cantarhury Sprlnir.—l'nplno'd in Now Zoa lind Onp (Sst-I'hl, won by vanannrd (Set 91b): won siewiirrln' Haiidlrnp (7-t 101b). Vanstuard (Ojl .V.b) sncon.l, Tnlaron (7st 101b) third, nn ji need in Motropo'-itnn Handlf.in (Sat 101b) won by Son-wester (7st IOlli) ]; mtiora (Bat lib) aecotd: lko(78t 71b). thlr.l. Taranakt Autumn.—Won . J.C. Handicap lßst 101b), Laurol (7nt iOlb) Bocond, Buzzard (7st 81b) third; second In Autumn Handicap (B.it 31b). won by Mj story ttiat 101b), Buzr.ard (7bl S h) third. Auckland Autumn — *'on K'lator Handioap (Oat 31b), Woodnymph 7a') second. Buzzard, (»i<t lOlh), third; won Autumn Handioap, (flat lfllb). Bnzz\rd (7at) Becond, AVoodnymph (78t 121W third. 1885 88. Canterbury HprinK—Unplacod in New Zea land Cup (Oat 3l»), won by B"ui>Bilado (6st 71b) Administrator (Bbl lib), second, Lochlnl (7st '31b) third; w«n Stewards'Btako9 (9st tlbl beatini? lxichiol (Bst 51b). Talnbearcr (Bst) and 10 others; unplaced in Cantorbury Cup. wf.a. won by Stoneyhurat Tasman socoud, Horoiilasto third.

STONEYHURST, 3yrs, 7st 1110. 1881-85.

Canterbury Spring.-Won Welcome Stakos (Bst 51b). HermitaßO (Sst 51b. Bocond, Wizard (Sst .Mb) third ; third in Juvonilo Plate (Bst) won by Marlon I7st Bib), Tasmania (tlstUlb) second ; third in Snrinflr Nursery Handicap (Bat 121b), won by Notnesls (7tt slbl, Btr<?nuouß (7st 101b) second. Dunedin Autumn.—Socond In Champneno Stakes (Bst 101b) won by Kverton Lad (Bst 101b), Bpado Guinea (Bst 101b) third: won CiiyStaken Handicap (Bat 101b). Kverton Lad (Bst 101b) seoond, Spade Guinea (Sat3lb) third. I Canterbury Autumn. — Wop Champagne | Stakos, baaunpfWinohefltor.UormHißo. Hanian, and Kverton Lad, each having Sst 101b; un placed in Challenge Stakes, won by Trenton (88t01b), Bussloy (83t61b) second, Loohlol(7et3.b) third. 18858(5. Canterbury Spring.—Won Derby, boating Fnsllado, Hornutago, Kverton Lid, Archduko. and Bonny Blink; won Canterbury Cup. 2! miles (w.f.n.). boatinß Tasman. Hermitage, Tur- ■ quoiso, und Kutilade. Timo, lmin. lljsoo, NECKLACE, 4yrß, 7st 81b. 1883-81. Auokland Summor, -Unplacedin Midsumtnor Stokes, won by Tronton. Krupo second. Pearl third; won kurtory Handicap (7st), bnutlng Fusilior (Sst), Krupp (Bst 101b), and flsro others. Auckland Autumn.—Won llaree' Produoo Stekos. beatinpr Krunp. Oarbinoer, llavolvflr. Bid Totfflrd ; with But. lib rnn doad hout with Kcupp (Bst 101b( for KUorslie Plato, Woodnymph third. 1881-85. Auckland Summor.-Second to Tigrndia in Dorbr, Totford 3rd. Auokland Autumn. — Won Tradesmen's Hi.mlieup I8st) boating Mystery (7st 41b). Sir Bodivoro (78t71b) anri flvo othc s: won Pabli cans' Plate iSst 41b) Mitrallouse (03t lib) second Tho Dauphin (9at2lb) third ; unplaced in Shorts Hnndicnp (Bst 121b). won by Kalo (7sl). The Duuphi.i (Sst Jib) second. Al|/ha (6st 71b) third. 1885P6. Canterbury Soring.—Unplaceri in Stewards' Stakos (Bst 101b) won by Turquoise (9st 41b), Lochirf (Sst 51b) second, Talebearer (Bst) third ; third in Motropo'itsn Handicap (7st 91b), won by Pearl (7st 91b), Lady Kmma (7st 51b) seoond

NELSON.

5 yrs, 7et 81b. 1882 83.

Auckland Spring.—Third In Wolcomo Stake*, wen by his stable companion Wapiti, Mitrail leiieo second. Auckland Summer.—Second in Midsummer Stakes, won by Bubina; second in Nursery Handicap (Bst 91b), won by Hubina (Bat 101b). 1583 81. Auckland Bpring.—Won Trial Stales (w.f.0.), beating Client others; won Epsom Plate (w.f.a.j, b atini? six others. Auckland Summor.— Won Dorby. boalinf? Wapiti, Hscopeta, find Mu jketc«r; second in Auckland Plato (w.f.a.), won b. Welcome Jack.

Uawke's Bay Autumn.—Uenii heat, for nncond plico ("at 2lb). with Tho l Joet (B<t iilh) in Napior Handicap, wonbvSou -wealor(7stSib): unplaced in Grand Stand Handicap \7-t llilb) won by Tho Pcet (Sst 71b); unplaofKl in Autumn Handicap (9jt lib), won by Pearl( lit 81b). Auckland Autumn.—Unplaced in Easter Handicap (7et 41b), won by Administrator

Handicap <W 71b>. beating seven others, fsifiii mmm§m Ann In Webster (list (lib) flccond, Sou'-westcr Wapiti (7st alb), Itublna (list) second.

1885-86 r*ninrhnrv Swing.—Unplaced in New Aett mmmm Ilookot (7sl) second, Taiaroa (Sat alb) thud.

RADAMES,

ayrs, Tat 71b. lfuwki-'H Bay Spr.iiß.—Unplaced in Maiden Plate won by EsoopcS ffstlfflW, Horotaungo (Oui nib) second. Kuni (Sst loin) mini. l'etane -Third In Maiden Plate <7st 91b), won by Briar "(7st Mb), ]°' ia l7st 7"» sec^; MnMnn HnavkoH Iluv Summer.— Second in Maiden Plate (89t 21b) won by Kuni (fat 131b), Briar 17 Waipalval-Von U.C. Handicap (7«t 111W boatiuc Briar ("st 81h), Yankoo Sat 1 lib), and h-eeothora; won Mnldon Plato (Bst -lib), beat- In"' Uaybreak (Ost lib), the only other starter, ""poverty Bay Sninmer.-Socond in Tradesmen's Handicap (781 101b), won by Kingask (Bst 41b), Irliir (st lilbl third; won Turanea Stakes /st 101b), beating Briar (7st Jib) and Impostor (fist liawko'B Hoy Autumn.-Unplaced in Napier Handicap won by Sou'-wostor (7st Sib), The Poet 8s . 21b) second. Neteon WjA 21b) third jthlrd in Uriind Stand Handicap (7bD, wou by Tho Poet (Sat, 711)) Tim W'hilllcr Wai Gib) second. Auckland fist ran dead heat with Administrator (7st 61b) In Easter Handicap Nonmuiby <7al Sib) third; second in Autumn Handicai) (list OlbMyun by Nelson ("at ill), SIKS- Xak«™ Anmrn'-Won Cup (M SlW.boating Bißhwomon ("stslb), Wltlora (7st 101b), and four otCam'brldeo Autiimn.-Unplaeed in Cup (7nt 101b), won by N rmanby (Sat), Irishwoman (7st 81b) second. Administrator . (18st 101b) tlm-d ; unplaced in Publicnns' Purse, won by Npriniin by (Bit Mb). Administrator (Sat 81b) second, I'ish woman(7st 91b) third. 1881-89. , ~ Auckland Spring.- Unplaced in SprlnK Handi cap (Bst 101b), won by Libeller (Sst 01b), i'ishgirl t 7st 101b) secouJ, Kalo (7stl2lb) third. 1885-86. lias not raced up to date.

WOODNYMPH.

•1 yrs, Tst 61b.

Auckland Spring.-Unplaced iv Welcome Btakes, won by Trenton, Krupp second, Revo - • ver third ; unplaced In Epsom Plato (fist 911)), won by Nelson (Rst 21b), Mitrailleuse (7st lllb). socoud, Vortex (Ost lib) third. Auckland Siiinnier.-Unplaccdin Midsummer Stuki-s won by Trenton, Krupp kocond. Pearl fhird? impUvcod In Now Yoai}s Gift (Gst 61b), won by Krupp (Tst 21b), Ugly Buck (7st 21b) second, Satanella (list (ilb) third; unplaced m Nursery Handioip ("st 21b) wonbyNeeklacc(ist) Fusilier (Sst) socond, Krupp (Ssl 101b) third. Auckland Autumn.—Tnird in Ellerslie Plato (Sst Mb), in which Krupp 18-.1 101b) and Nocklace i (Dst lib) ran a dead heat for first place. ISSISo Auckland Summer.- Third in Auckland Cup (sst 121b), won by Tho Poet (list 121b), Normanby (list 121b) second; unplaced in Derby, won by Ti K raHa,Necklaces. coiul.Tetford third ;sccond in Xowninrket Handle.jp (7sl) won byMitrail lcuso list 21b, Ugly Buck (7st 101b) tlurii. Auckland Auluinn.—Second in Easter Handi cap (7st), won by Tunjuoise (list lllb), Buzzard (list 101b) third: third in Autumn Handicap ("st 121b) won by Turquoise (Oat 101b), Huzzard (7st) second. 1883-80. Auckland Spring s-Won Trial Stakes (Bst 21b), bcvtiiiL' Jlitrailli'usr (Sst lllbl.Kowi (Ost, lib),and six others; second In Spring Handicap (Sst2lb) won by Cinderella (7ist 71b), Sirßedivero (Tst 21b) third.

WAITIRI,

3yrs, 7st 21b, 1835 Sfi

llawke's Hny SpriiiK'.-Won Guineas, beating Soudan, lionny blink, and Revoke at level "ivu'uio: Won Cup, U mile, with Sst 2b, beatini: llcrculancum (Sst 51b>, FlemiiiKton (list 7lb), aiuUVallabi (Ost 81b.

FOUL SHOT,

3yre, 7st. 1881-8.").

Auckland Spring. - Won Welcome Stakes, bratinj? Hosobud, Derringer, Lioness, Steel All, and Lionel.

Auckland Summer — Second in Midsummer Stakes, won by Thundcrboll. Lioness third; socond in New Year's Gift (71b 71b), won by Thunderbolt (7st,!llbl. Rosebud (Bat 131b) third; third in Nursery Handicap (Sst 71b1, won by Derringer (Tst 121b), Rosebud (7st lib) second.

1885-86. Has not raced up to date.

CARBINEER,

1883-81.

Auckland Spring — Unplaced in AVclcomo Ht:iU(". won by I'renton, Krupp second. Revolver third: unplaced in Kpsom Plate (list lllb), won by Kelmn 'Sol 21b), Milraillcusc ("i-t lllb) second, Vorl'x(!lsl lib) third.

\ uckland Bummur. • Unplaced in Midsummer Htnlces, won by Trenton, Krupn second, ' earl third : iinplared in New Year's Gift (list Ulb, \von by Krupp (7sl L'lb), Ujrly Muck (7st 21bl second, .Snlanella (list, fillrt third; unpliiccd in Nursery Tlandioip I?-1' Sib), wou by Necklace fist), fusilier (Ssl) scco.d,Krupp (Sst 101b),third. Hawkc's l!iy AuHinin.— acconc' in Nnrscry Plalo (Ssl slh), won by l'carl (Sst 21b), Tißrcdia (Sst L'lb) third : Kccon<l in Autumn Handicap ("st 71b). won by l'carl (7?t Sib.) Forerunner (7st Olb) (bird. Tnrannki Autumn.--Won Welcome Stakes (Sst 101b), beating Miss Puritan (Sst 71b). Anvil (Sst 71b) and two others: second in Nursery Handicap (!)3t 71b), w^n by Miss Puritan (SstSlb), Anvil (Sst) third. Auckland Autumn.—Third in Mares' Produce St'ikes, won by Nocklnce, Krupp second; un placed in Ellcrsl'o PUte (!)st lib), in which Krupp (Sst 101b) and Kocklaco (9at lib) ran a dead heal. ISBI-85. Auckland Spring.—-Unplaced in Sprinft 1 landi cap (7st lib); won by Uccller (Sst OsU, Fislißirl (Tst 101b), second, Kilo |7st 121b), third. Auckland Summer.—Second in Christmas Handicap ("st 31b), won by Utfly Buck (7st 12st), Victoria (Gst 101b) third ; second in Racinir Club (list, lib), won by Wclcomo Jack Ost 101b), Tho Poet (7st Sib) third.

1885-Sfl. Hns not raced up to date.

LIBELLER.

Aged, 7st. 1882-83.

Thames Summer.—Won Thames Plate (SBt Vlb). 1J miles, boating Hand wick (9st), Paramcna (*st 51b), and two others. Won Sto wards' Handi cap (Ost), \\ niiles. beatiiißLuckpanny (Sst Jib), IJivor (list olb), and two others.

Auckland Summer —Third in R.C. Handicap (Bst), won by Welcome Jack (Sat 71b), Tho Poet (7st lfllb), second, beating four others. Won Grandstand Handicap, (Bst 21b), Umilos,2miu 17isec, beating Piscatorious (Bst 121b), Kenil worth (7st. 51b), and llvo others Takapuna Summer.—Unplacedin J.C Handi cap, (8st81b). won by Gildcroy.Gst 5»lb: Lone Hand, (7st 61b) second; Maori (list 121b), third. Hawkc's Bay Autumn.-Unplaced in Napier Handicap (7st 121b), won by Mischief. SstlOlb; Leonora (7st 31b\ second, Luna (7st 101b) third. 1883-81 Thames Hammer.—Won Goldfields Handicap (Sat 121b). beating Kcnilworth (7(tt 7ib), l.ono Hand <7H 121b), Woodpecker (7at 121b),and Rowl (7Bt 71b). Aucklanl Sununor.—Third in Cup (7st 71b), won by tfalva«o (8s t Sib), Tin tt hlHlur (7flt 121b) third: won Racing Club Handicap (7ft llb),bettt intr Tim Whi/llor (ink lib) Salvage (93t lib), vxd threo others; unplaced in Grand Stand Handi cap, won by Wapiti (list 121b). Tim VVhilllor (Sit 71b> seuond, Salvage (!),t 31b) third. Northern (Auckland) J.O. Summer.—Third in J.C. Handicap (Sat 121b), won by Kalo ("st lib), Yuba Bill (&)Ulli) second. Wansanui A uuimn.—Unplaced in Cup t7at 101b), won by The Poet (7st 121b). Administrator (Bst 101b) second, Normanby (7st lib) third; third in Wanganui ."takes (7st7lb). *on by Maori (7st), ThePoot (3st 21b) tooond; third in Consolation (8-it 7lb), won by Administrator (7st 101b), Witlora i7st 71b) second. Tarftcaki Autumr.-Unplaced in J.C. Handi cap (7-it 71o), won by Normanby (7st 3!b), Ad ministrator (7st Clb) second, Londsocr (7at 31b) third. Auckland Autumn.—Unplaced in Kastor Han dicap (78t8lb). Hadamos (list) and Administrator (7st 51b)rnnnin{[ a doad lioat for first ilace, Nor manby (7st 7lbl third ; unplaood in Autumn Handicap (7ot tlb), vtoa by Nelson (7st 7lb), Radamcß(CfltOlb) bocoihl, ITitzhorculos (7st 101b third. 1831-85. Aupk'and Spring-Won Spring Handicap (Sst fllh) beating Fishgirl ("at 101b), Kalo (7st 12ib) Radames (Bst 101b). and five others. Thames Summer. - Sccoud in Goldflelda Han dicap (Set 121b), won by Larry (7&t 91b). Auckland Bummor.—Unplaced in Cud (7st) won by The Poet (6at 121b), Normanby (6et 121b second,WoodDymph (ost 121b) third ; won Grand Stand Handicap (7nt IMb), beating Sou'wester (Bst 121b), Administrator (Bit 21b), and four othors. Hawke's Bay Autumn.—Unplaced in Napier Handicap (7et 61b). won by Pearl am. Cloks (6st 51b). sooond. Fusilier (7et 121b) third ; won Grand Stand Handicap (7st). 2 miles, beating Fusilier i7st 8lb), Leonata (83tl01b), Pasha (7st) and Gabblo (7st). Auckland Autumn Unplaced in Easter Handicap (7st 81b), won by Turquoise (9at 31b), Woodnymph (7st) socond. Buzzard (7st lOlbi third ; unplaced in Autumn Handicap (7at 61b) H»nriv,PUnHi f" tn. mn--Un,Placed in Autumn Handioop (Sst hit), won bjr NiKeer (fist lOlhi B^ard (Sat 21b) eccoud, Victoria (Gst 101b) (fe?ioib&T° a Ur Mlt"':le««« 2!b), Kalo ISBS 8«. Has not run up to dato.

l^^' Bii™MJ2!hS«s P^foriuancea previous to cordo; omlttctl> not I'avipg oompleto ro-

(To hi concluded next Saturday.J

THE GARDEN.

[By Hoktdh.j

Calendar of Operations, December U,

[HOKTUS is willing to answer any quorlcs. Cor respondents muat. Rivit thf.lr full names and addresses, thouxh not tor pubUcation.l

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Tomatoes (11.W.).—' onotpi-ik oil any of ihc Jlowors; there is pientr of timo for them to sot yet. If you picked oil the flawi-rs yi;u might spoil llio charco o£ o'llainliig au curly crop. Youniiy k!"u an ojo»Bioiia watering with liqut'l munul-c. Hoay ends wi'l do if no oihur is obtivinabi.-, and wh n the n anta show too many Hi-.ot*. cut. them out cml -, ir.ch bark otherß. Wnile doing t>.i"i pinch so as to secure ai largo a number of Tlnatrri of flowerß us possible. Many a lime 1 buro icm toinr.t-i plants expend their strength iv growing wool instead of fruit, whurata litilo troublo in tho thinning of -hoois and pinchlnc; wou'd have givoa more fruit nd lobß wood.

Tulii-s and HYAOISTHB (Ainaciir).-If the ■ foliiKO U properly d led otr, and tho bulbs liponed, thoy should be lifted and stored past for ihe summer. Your gladiolus also, wln.h Is post flowering, lift tho bulbs, also dry thorn in tho sun for about, two wcokh. then rgpUnt iixuiu; iheso will produce lito autumn nowers Itis nlmo3t no-Bible, by ajudi iouslifMngand plmiti-.g. t'. ktcp a couiinuiil succession of flowers all Mioßeason r.mnd, bntm doing so you would dbtoriorato tho quality of the bout vurietieß. ,

Debris kbomPine Tubes (A. C.)-Tlio debris of pine should bo collccto'i and put in a heav to rot for a long time before using them as manure. If thoy aro mod wh«n nowlr oil"the tree they do tho soil more injury ihan tsood. Threw Hum in a heap, mix with them tho grass out from tho lawn or shrubbery. It you cannot obtain this iv suftlcient quintlty, get a load or no of feriiiontinit stable manuro to mix with them. Keep moist with water or slops from the house. Next autumn Ift woul: do fjr digging into the kitchen Harden. Budding Fhuit TnBU <3ubacriber). - Yos, apples will succeed as well budded a* eiiitteA. but this Is not the propor tliuoto bud. About the c-d of January or beginning of Ifobruary is tho right a-uson. You should try tho bud dim: this nutumn, tir if you fail you can racily graft next spring. Get your buds off trees tint, ai'oin 'nil fruit hourinu if possible. I could not rive yru Instructions how to bud ■without ii diagram, and spauo will not allow, Got "BreU'sUolouitt's Uuido ;" there you will flnrl a diagram with explanations for both badding and grafting. THANSIT,A»rINO CABBAGES CAUI.Iir.OWBUS, Kto (i. B)—Tr.o r.bovn class of vein-tables aro generally raised in bed or so<d row lam awa o that many t'anspUnt into anuthtr bed before pluntinit out in lh..ir ptrman-nt quar tors. but it gives unno eßsary labour, sni pi res tho young plants to ■o cheeks inrtoad of only one, which per nancmly hurts the plants. No kind of greens need planting more than once. When a numnor of plants come >'.p in tlio p«od bed there are always some that take the lead. When ttio lnr^i st have made from four to six loaves, lift and plant out pcrma. nontly. Tno smaller onos will lmko a sue sofslou to these, and soon till tho bod is ex hausted. By removing tho plmts us they grow thoy never bccoir.o crowded or diawn up. Any lhat you miy transplant njw puddlo tho roots beforo planting

Kitchen Garden.

Alt planting of vegetables ehould come to an end for this season, as the hot dry weather will bo on, and tho ground will bo getting dry and hot, making it impassible to sow or plant without having an unlimited supply of water. Make tho usual auccessional sow ing of French and running beans, fork bo twoon tho rows of tho oarlier cropij. and earth up. Stake thoao that may require it. Potatoes : fork between the rows of the late crop and earth up on the ground occupied. Cloar away the debris ; and mark out ttie trenches for tho lato crop uf celory. Have the soil thrown out of tho trenches at onco, put in plenty of manure, give abundance of water, and plaut out tho main crop at once Water to settlo after planting. To the earlier planted crops of celory give occasionally a little liquid manure. Tho main crop of leoks should also now bo planted Put plenty of rnanuro in tho ground where they are planted. Prepare a largo break of ground for planting out broccoli, Brussels eprouts, and drum hc»d cabbago, Bomotiino during this month. Tomatoes: Tio up to their supports; then out superfluous shoots, pinch back and regulate. Lettuce : Tie up tho advauce plants for blanching, prick out a few more in a cool fliady place, and give plenty of water. Peas: Earth up such crops as aro advancing, stake tall growing varieties, if euch can bo procured. Continue thinning out advancing crops ol vegetables, stir tho smfuco soils between tho rows, earth up tlioso that may require it. Keep all weeds under, and keep this dopartmont tidy, as a tidy, well-kept kitchen garden is ono of llio plcasontost features about any houso. Slugs and snail* aro jot troublesome to young vege tables. Give limo during tho cvonitig. Flower Garden. Dahlias should bo planted out now. Make a hole for each plant, and put about a half burrow load of welj-rottod manure in oach holo. You can't use too much manuro in tho ground that dahlias aro to bo grown in. After setting oach plant, give it a good drenching with water, co as to properly cettlo and saturate the soil. All tender plants should bo planted out now. Thin out tbe rjlants from those that wero sown out in the open-only leave throo or four plants at each spot. Tho bedding plants will now require constant attention. They should now be making a goo-i strong growth, and frequent pinching and pegging down of shoots so as to regulate such growth to suit the requirements of tho beds and borders. Try and pinch po as to give tho plants a biifhy, compact habit. Tall grow ing plants, which aro liable to get dimagod by ilio wind, should bo staked and tied. All shrub? should now rccoivo v little nil en tiou by cutting out or pinching btck nil rank or .struggling choots that might, ho showing, making them uesmno a nice hand some, natural shapo. Continue attention to climber?, tioing up and arranging as they grow. Rnsos : Continuo picking off dend (lowers. Don't allow seed pods to form; gtvo occasional watering with liquid manure All early spring flowering bulbs that aro properly ripened, lift and store past. Stir tho surfaco soila on betln and bordorfi fo as to promote a better growth Lawn : Mow froquontly, and roll ovory opportunity, Walka should now bo raked over once a week, so as to kcop peed weeds under. Groonhou&c. Repot advancing colons, begonias, itc, as their roots fairly lill the pot they are now in. Uao liquid manure on all free-growing plants. iSeo that no plant is allowed to sulTir from the want of water. If such does occur, take and plunge the pot in a bucket of water for a few minutes. So as to jjivo moro room in tho houso for the summer foliage plants ; take all hardy plants that will grew out of doors during the summer, and plungo their pots in soil.in eomti cool, shady part of tho gardon. When plunged, thoy will require loss attontionin watering. Give plenty of air and shade during the brightest part of the day. Syringo all plants not in flower whon shutting up tho house in tho evening,

Rights of Fruit Growers,

When fruit trees aro neglected, crowded aud abandoned, they not only ceaee to bear fruit but gonerato contagious diseases which sproad to the other trees and orchards and aoon do.-olato a whole section of country, somo of whose orchards may have been kept in primo condition. This suggests the necoseity of somo legal remodiea, such as tho enforcement of sanitary regulations among fruit growers as aro attempted in tho relations of human society. Tho horti cultural Bociotios should tako the matter in, hand with rigour, and bring such influonco to bear upon tho lawmakers as to bo able to cause tho destruction of ovory tioo and orchard affoctod with any of thoeo fruit and fruit troo indications. A man has no more right to kcop a post-hold of cottony cushion Bcalobug, or phylloxera than he has to keep a posthouso of smallpox, yollow fovor or cholera on his privato grounds in tho midst of his fellow-beings. How to Manage Cut Flowers Those who desire to keep cut flowers in perfection are advised that flowers in vases or jars should havo a fresh supply of water evory morning. Tho doad buds and de cayed loavos should bo taken away and tho ends of the stalks cut oil. All the leaves should bo romo-'cd from that part of the stalk that is in tho vase. When tho flowora bogin to hang their heads and show a Ronoral aflpoct of languor, cut oil'tho ends of tho stalk with a sharp knifo and put thorn about two inches doep in warm water for a few minutes. Tho water should not be actually scalding, but as warm as you can hold your hand in without pain. The moisture will make its way through the cells of which the stem is composed, and if thoy are taken from the warm and imme diately placed in fresh cold water, the flowers will revive and yet live for some days or hours longer, according to their kind. Tkey should not be exposed to a hot Bun. Wo often rind that fancy bouquets wilt speedily, although kept constantly in water. To keep flowers fresh proceed thus : To clean sand add a liberal supply of powdered charcoal. Fill the vase wi»h this and imbed tho bouquet. Then wator occasionally. Tho charcoal retains mois ture, and plants can be kept for many days fresh in it. If tho flowers aro to be kept in shallow dishes tho eamo material may bo used. To prevent evaporation and to add to tho looks of tho di»h, cover tho sand with sphagnum, or other short green moss. A small handful of salt put into tho wator in which flowers aro kopt will also aid in keeping the flowers frofih and keep the water sweet.

RETURN OF NEW GUINEA EXPEDITION.

Aiteu an absence of lewl, Bi expedition party d^jj^ft, returned to Sydney l ast " "'^ steamer tho Bonito Sir P U ■** Shor y after 2 o'clock "Le^B tho Bonito in tow, was Lfc^. * fc spack away to the norfi?'l»C quartor-paet threo o'clock , \l Wd »U entered the Heads, wh'«,>, *? Wet waitinutoreceivo^lT^rf; land vomol Mararoa, which h»!i New £ earlier in tho day 'on D ,^ d W* * camo in nst ahead of $%** mi* anted a fi no e y, t "«*>> and £} grandly p 3Et the Northern t° >N vessels flew th. red eniM* graphical Society's houetfU fr-°* truer or heartier cheer .went un « eTt<« the occupants of tho. Thet, irV^n make out the faces approach JS "*•«. tho little white "lone B teWmN« order, "We want you to come a B A tl° was roared out to them, but 3, wvoral fathoms of water und et ?> tho invitation was declined. Th. i & the expedition was the first m! T^l "There', Captain BvwfflJ Sffifl- voice, and a hearty cheer » (i » which was repeated as varin Rl?eni bora of the expedition "«"?» W Off Chowder Bay tho ElanZ ° T"* 1 tho Thetis came alongside ! f* 1 Bvenll, Dr. Bernays, and Dr Lrt * aboard the Thetis, and were hL«> corned. The Thetis then tanrt£\* for Watson's Bay, and the 80l «^ rom the Elamang and followed \LTf Watson's Bay the other member} L M pcdition landed and several groap okr graphs were taken by Meseri tiU Jones, of Georee-street. Caotain l?'I 1 was in good health, bntsbme of ft membersweroaufferingfromfever liU, tho photographer of the party, bro Dg ffi with him a collie dog which, previous J trip to Now Guinea, accompanied mJi ' tho Forbes district to AdelaWK™! 2,000 miles. The only livingYC ? of New Guinea, brought bacUy & is what is believed to be anew .IK giant kingfisher. This bird tJSZI colour those eeen haunting the brooks .5 rivers at home, but it is much lamer «3 the strength of its bill, according X test, is very groat. After the m«mW3 tho expedition had had time to look aroiJ tho compaiy aasombled on the after-dS to participate in the formal welcome to L members of the expedition, Sir Edward Strickland and others then gave addrespes of welcome to the party Captain Bvorill, in replying, said itwoald be difDcult^ for him to give, in reawniS time, a satisfactory resume of: their ones tions, but in duo coime these oieranom would be fully described. On leavy Sydney the Bonito experienced rathet heavy weather, which (Weed her to» main for a fortnight at Thursday Hmd They met with aniostenthusiasticreceptioi from that graud man, tbo Hon. John Douglas- (applause) - who' assisted then by placing his schooner, the Mavis, at that disposal, to take up twenty tnns of coal to dooosit at a station on tho Fly River. Mr Douglas went with them on their voyim up the river to Famioot; The Bonito vUited tho islands of Nebooand Eewei,at the mouth of the Fly' River, aid H ea proreeded to Samioot, where they landed coals from the Mavis, and tracehipped the remainder to tho Bonito Ob leaving Samioot, the Bonito pushed on up the Fly Kiver, as the leader was very anxious to got the patty away from % gwampy grounds. Mr Maofarlane had spoken of a now river, but they did tot find it. After passing D'Albertis Mand, they turned out of tbo Fly Rivet into a new branch pretty well as wido as the other, This branch he named the Strickland Siver —(cheers)-in honour of tho President o! the Sjdney branch of the Society. They wont on up tho Strickland ldver for two or threo days, seeing plenty ol shelter, but no natives. ■ On.'the second day they met romo caniw, but tbo natives ran ashoro and fltd attheif approach. They tried to made frietdlf signs, bur, could not make any imprefflh on tho Papuans They landed in theboati and examined the canoes, and still failing to strike up an intimacy with the people, thij camo away, loaving some articles of true in exchange for a few curios. Next nu» ing thoy saw some mor» canots on» latdj spit, nnd on this occasion the natira did not got away bofore tkey could Biakesigm to them. They ran the steamorinas close aa possible, and the leader landed, wishing to c»mmnnicate with tho nativep, Bot he was rather glad to get on board ihe steamor again, for the natives were »dj> thing but friendly, and did_not «cm disposed to receive his friendly td> vances. Not wishing to remain there,or rtek a row with them, ha Bteamed off, tit natives following with their kfty'ndi little further on whoro there was i Tilljge, tho natives showod an intention of figUiog. Tt happened that tho deep water'tin clow to the village, and ho had only time to call out to tho man in tho chains heaving the lend, when two or three arrows came at the vessel and then a whole shower. Luckily, no ono wnß hurt, but some of the arrowi stuck in the vessol. The natives then re peatod tlio shower of arrows, and be »a» com polled to give the order to fire, and he reluctantly did so, having first blown ttj steamer's whistle, to which ■ they paid no attention. None of the natives were seen to fall, or appeared-hnrt, ■ « was necessary to fire upon them, as, -it rae steamer had gone out of their range,«« would have gone ashore, and there v^m intention of going into the canoes to»tt«k the steamer, although the natives had m I the friendly signs of the explorers./I dm i same afternoon the Bonito grounded • 'some gravel for the first time. On tte fourth or fifth day the water m, irt enabled them to go a little further, They again stuck, for a fortnight, during iW time tboy cut various tracks to g « and had a party out outtiDgwhen the «J voso. They still pursued the r coarse »p the river until the Bonito beg finally grounded .at a *g ;g" Observatory Point, in latitude 6 38. l««J the fhinglo b«d washed away fm w steamer, and they had to turn out sbou o'clock in the morning on an alarm ,Wt given that the steamer *««««£ Nearly everything was landed oot oiw steamer during the night, exceptrfte WJ and equipment. Next day they W out, and the steamsr partially ngWw^ day or two after this they had iMfen ■"* from a hostile war i-arty, who wore, Iv« dispersed without any blood* A »y that thoy were to bo here J<**££ time, they started cu ,* t which was found vory diftj^" j Thoy had to actually ho« J^ tt through the dense Ju^'^^TuloTw and in fact it would be ■^'f/^/e party without a largo *«*"? go be bowers to make any ffi«*«"'tj They concluded to proceed *y*".£f oßt diji started in tho whaleboat flaw or later, nnd journeyed upi the n y , a position approximate » ■ boundary. (A pplftu^o.) "ll fin i ßhe d, arii day the provisions were nearly hn« f thoy had seen nothing, when aing &ea mountains in the distance »*»»$&» of so much that they kepton f "^jiesfrom thcridge. Theywerethon 8a orW» tho Bonito. He went up a hffl 750 foot above tha lewl rf »• n^ at their provisions being then «» 90 miles from tho vessel they" m^ tantly to return. On rf^'^'Xi,, they which it took two days to MjwgJ.' The found hor still in the same po«™" Bonito lay exactly where J9^ Gordon range of ™*^££&m °{ exist, and was placed on Uicipr« t Now Guinea. Th.s was one g graphical fact ascertained, i doee fo-caUed Arthur Gordon rMg ack bone not exist. There wM no^ jj, in the centre of tnf _j-. tv or eeventy mountains they saw ™*™h«» »n * a st.eng anxiety was begmnmg ff jj to whether the steamer T£J^» not in mudbank or not, and ttey^ to take tho best of health, he "g? * «0| advantage of the water ««, ceed down the river. tW off on the 21et ot October, »■« er by succeeded in catching: the w^, which it was intended they* m T6 ry In conclusion, he th/» kS« tod ««* heartily for tho recept»» **, the «»■ himself and tho other memberto di T ° h n o Thotisthcn *J-JfjSS Choera wore given as she pj" m , «» --ELS'SSSSr«V—^ »hortly%efore 6 o'clock-

IE aUOKXA.NI). ftVEJNIJNG BTAII, SATUKDAV, DECEMBER 12, 1885.

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