SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER.

Aucklawt.-This afternoon, 1.12; to-morrow evening, f1.52; to- HBfm-This evening, 7.52 i to-mor row morning, 8.19.

BUNSKT.—This evening, 5. IS. HUNRISK.—To-morrow morning, 0.39. JdCON'S AGK.-Full Moon,29th, 5.52 p.tn,

ARRIVALS.

TODAY. Clansman. 8.5., Farquhar, from guss'l},. , llinomoa. Government s.s., Falrchild, from Wcomc! schooner. Fry from Oamaru "Walapu, Schooner, Nicolas, from Gisborno ■

DEPARTURES.

LAST RVBNINO. Waitaki, S.S., Crawford, for Whangrarci "Macirregor, s.s,, Johnson, for Whangarol AdaC. Owen, brlgantir.e, Diokson, for Raro

Lillian, Echoonor, Plltx, for Rarotonga

TO-BAY. lona, s.p.. Amodoo. from Ohiwa Glcnoli;. s.a.. Scott, for Groat Humor Aurora, euhooner. Watt, for Norfolk Island Glcnlora, barque, Sergeant, for London

IMPORTS.

Xx Contie, from London-fi'2.500 fancy con feotionory.-il. Hart & Co,, Albert street and Market Square.

Inwauds, Coastwise.—lda, from Matakann, with 190,000 ft. timbor; Modora. from Awamii. with 10 tons ilrewood ; Una, from Great Barrier.

Outwards Ooastwibk: Ida, for Matakana Vlolor. for Thames.

Tho 9.9. Kawatiri from this port via Kaipara. arrived at Port Chalmers yesterday.

Tho as. Coptic arrived at Wellington from this port yesterday.

Tho brlßantino Ooeola has ontcrod outwards for Australia, via Mercury Bay.

Tho schooner Waiapu from Gi9borno and intermediate ports brings IS! sacks barley. 15 sacks tallow, 92 pies, 391 backs whoat, 88 sacks buley, 5 tons bones.

The schooner Aurora has cleared at tho Customs for Norfolk Island with general cargo and the following passengers:—Messrs A. Otto, E. Konyon, and E. Thomas.

The barque Glenlora sailed for London this aftornoon. In addition to thc|cargoof which wo published a list last ov-oning. tho Glenlora lakes lilca*69 Rum. valued at £175; 61 caska tallow, valued at t's6o; and sundries, valued at fill.

The schooner signalled last evening proved to bo tho Wolcomo, from Oamaru, with general curgo. Sho camo up harbour at noon to-day, and anchored off tho Ra lwny Wharf.

The agents of the P.M.S.S. Company ex pected tho Zealandiato leave Sydney at noon to day, and hope to got her away for San Fran cisco on Wednesday evening.

Tho schoonor Dovonport arrived at Lvttolton from Sydney yostorday. Alter discharging there, sho will probably load grain for this pert.

Tho brlgintino Marshall S. la taking in a cargo of sugar from the s.s. Arawata for con veyance to Sydney, owing to the storage-room at" tho disposal of tho Sugar Company horo boing insufficient for its accommodation.

Tho Government steamor Hinemoa arrived from liussoU at 7 a.m. to-day. Sho ia to leave for Xapier at 8 to-night.

Tho s.s. Clansman arrived from Tauranga'this morning. Passengers: Mrs Taylor. Misses Taylor (2), Mra Proudo and child, Mrs Howson, Mrs Millar. Miss Jackson, Rev. Mr Goodyear, Dr. Armstrong. Messrs Cndman, Pnsby, Taylor, R. King, T. Helm, Roy, Turner, Dawes, Hogan. and Thbrne.

The following of tho Union Co.'s steamers aro expected during tho ensuing week: - Suva, from Gisborne, and Taupo, from Tauranga. Sunday morning early; Manapouri, from Melbourne via Southern ports, Monday, 10 a.m.; Hawea (at Manukau), from Southern ports, Tuesday, 7.30 a.m.; Ohau, from Tauranga, Wednesday, 6 a.m.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Gairloch, 8.5., JlcArthur, from Woitara Rowenn, 8.8., Norbury, from llokianga

Tho Northern Co.'a steamers Gail-loch and Rowena arrived this mornicsr, the former from Waltaro, and the latter from dokianga, with 100 sacks gum and 10 tons sundries.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Wkllimgtos, Friday.-Sailed: Manapouri. for tho North. Passengers: Misa Catloy, Mr, Mrs, and Mastor Sibbed, Mr and Mra Wlnto, Mosdames Graham, Greenwood and family, two Sisteraof Mercy, Mr and Mrs Donald, Mr and Mrs Anthony, Soi-Ruaut-MBJor Barker, Captain Maxwell, Messrs Smith, Cocks Dove. Falkner, Studholtno and two boys, Holland, and Died- Melbournb, April 21.—Arrived, this morn ins: Rotomahana, from ihe Blufl".

Meetings, Entertainments, Etc.

Apkil 25,1885. Opera Houso-Wyoherloy's Comedy, "Tho Country Girl," 8 p m. Reclamation-Woodyear's Cirous. 8 p.m. Theatre Royal-Glove Contest Choral Hall-SoMoty ot Arts Exhibition, Dis tribution of modals, Oto. Ponsonby Rowing Club Mootlne. 7.80 p.m. Protestant nail, Nowton - Extraordinary Gcnoral Meotinj,', Grand Orange Lodgo, 7. ,10 p.m. V.M.C.A.— Evangolistic Moctinpr, 7.30. p.m. Salvation Army Barr.icka-Lcoluro, "Lost or Btolou," by Mr Capper, 7.30 p.m. Unitod Sorvico Hotol-Rußby Union Football APBOOialion, 7.3J p m.

Notices to Correspondents.

A U O.—ldnglish pnpora containing the result of tho Limolnshiro Handicap are not yet to hand. Wo will supply you with tho informa tion when thoy arrive. p II —Tho placed horses in tho Hurdle Ilacc at 'tho OnohuiiKtt Autumn Mooting wore MiK uonotte, F.roning Star, and Seagull.

Births.

CAlU!.—On April 21. tho wifo of Goo. I. Carr of a son. GItKKNHOUGII.-On April 10, at Mount Kdeu, Auckland, tho wife of J. H. Greonhough of a daughter. MKAUS.-On April 10, at linr roaidonoo, Kdon holmo, View Road, tho wifo of W. X Mears of a daughter. RKVELL.-On April 21. at her rcsi.lcnco Hob son-street, tho wifo of V. W. ltevell of a daushtor.—Taranaki papers pleaso copy. WOODWARD.-On April 20, at Kosobank. Dovonport. North Shoro, tho wito of John Woodward of a son.

Marriages.

Church. Thames, by tho Rev. Father OReilly, Samuel Collins, otAuekland, to Nora O kettle, lato of Limcriok, Ireland. DAWSON-STOCKttN.-On February 21, at St- Paul's, by tho Kov. C. M. Nolson, M.A., W. IT Dawaon to A. K. Stockcn. FRKACY-SHIKLDS.-On April 11, at St. Benedict^ Newton, by the Rqv Fathor d'Gara, Jamce, third son of Mr Patrick Froacy. ot Llmorick, to Mary Bella, oldest daughter of Mr John Shields, Gaol Road.—Limerick and Wellington papers please copy.

Deaths.

LAST.-Aftoralontfandsovoroilliioas, hrcdeno Lttft.of BurySl. Kdnmnds; n«ed 10 yours. The funeral will leave his Into reßldcuco at 3 p.m. on Monday. MASON. — Thomas Bruce Mason, died 23rd April. 1385 ; aged 57 yoara.

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

SATURDAY, APRIL 25, 1885.

For tho c«u«e that laoka assiitonoe, For tho wrong that needi resistance, For th« futuro in the dißtimco, Anil tho good that wo oan do,

Russia, through her servile Press, has declared that in the event of war with England she will repudiate the Declar ation of Paris on the subject of privateering. As this declaration refers to the rules of naval warfare, and as it is a visit from the Russian navy that these colonies have most to dread, it is of importance to understand what is contained in the threat. It means, as might be expected, a reversion to a semi barbarous condition of things, such as modern civilisation has been trying to abolish for ever. To learn what are Russian notions of warfare, it is only necessary to read the conditions of the declaration which they wish to repudiate. These are as follow : —" (1) Privateering is and remains abolished. (2) The neutral ll.ig covers the enemy's goods, with the exception of contra band of war. (j) Neutral goods, with the exception of contraband of war, are not liable to capture under the enemy's Hag. (4) Blockades, in order to be binding, must be effective." These rules, which were subscribed to by all the first and second-rate Powers of lamy years, and tneir effect hns na mittedly been to mitigatein some degree the evils ofwar,bygiving grcatersccurity for the prosecution of commerce in disturbed times. It is questionable whether Russia would carry out her threat, as to do so would be pretty certain to make every naval Power combine against her. Privateering was little better than piracy, and was ac companied by every description of out rage. The concurrence of all the parties to an agreement is necessary to set it aside, and if Russia should attempt to issue letters of marque to privateers, it will not pro tect those who accept them from being promptly strung up at the yard-arm whenever captured by any of the British cruisers which will cover the seas. So far from the nations of the earth wishing to make a retrograde step, the feeling is rather in favour of giving absolute immunity to private pro perty at sea from capture or destruc ! tion in time of war. And France's re cent attempt in China to make rice a contraband of war brought prompt re monstrances from England and Ger many. According to the rule now in force, all British goods on British vessels would be legitimate prizes for Eussia, but they would bo safe if carried by foreign vessels. This arrangement gives very little pro tection to British commerce, for 49 per cent, of the carrying power of the world is under the British flag, and our merchant navy consists of 30,000 ships, manned by 270,000 sailors. Britain surpasses in steamers all other Powers on the globe, and nearly equals their combined total in sailing vessels, so that there is a colonial fleet under the British flag open to attack in all the waterways of the world, the protection of which is no easy task.

Britain's great protection in the event of a war with a naval Power lies in her ability to equip a large fleet of steamers as cruisers. Though the Declaration of Paris abolished privateering, a modified form of that mode of warfare is still allowable, by simply chartering and commissioning a number cf ships under the Imperial flag as armed cruisers to sweep the seas, Recent news shows that both in Northern and Southern seas Britain is determined to avail herself of this power. It is refreshing, if it is also a little surprising, to learn the immense resources for naval warfare which Britain possesses in her fleet of ocean-going passenger steamers. Besides the two lines of New Zealand steamships, which arc quite up to Admiralty requirements as cruisers, there arc twenty lines of steamers comprising 412 vessels of an aggregate tonnage of 1,262,393 tons, and a value of These comprise six steamers of the " Allan " line, ranging from 3,000 to 4,000 tons ; four of the "Orient" line, of from 3,832 to 5,588 tons- thirteen of the " White Star" line (embracing the Coptic, lonic, and Doric, now in the New Zealand trade, and the first-named of which is being fitted up to defend this" colony), ranging from 3,700 to 5,000 tons; the " Anchor" line of fourteen large steamers; the " Cunard" line of eleven vessels of from 4,535 t0 8,000 tons; the " Guion " line of six eteamers, comprising the Alaska (the greyhound of the Atlantic, 7,000 tons); the " National " line cf thirteen steamers; aud tho " Union " line of five steamers, ranging from 3,500 to 6,500 tons j besides many others of great strength and power. The whole of these steamers, if armed and manned, might be expected to form an effective defence of British commerce on the high seas, and such arc Britain's resources that many mer

chant ships and steameis could be armed for self-protection, though un suited for service as cruisers. Suppos ing, therefore, the whole British fleet were required for offensive operations against Russia, she would lie able to send out cruisers in sufficient numbers, strength, and armament to give a good account of any war-ships which Russia might send on marauding expeditions.

The Slippery Ameer.

Tkeachbry is inherent in tho Afghan, and tho quality is not likoly to have been im-

proved by close contact with tho deceitful Russ. Hence, despito tho vory profiifo ex pressions of loyalty made uso of by Abdurrahman Khan during his rocont visit to tho Viceroy of India, and tho fact that ho continues to draw his British sub sidy, too much relinnce cannot bo placed upon the attitudo of tho Amcor of Afghanistan at tho present

juncture The halt-hearted naturo of his friendship is shown by tho cablo nows which wo publish to-day, stating that on account of his failing to givo a guarantee of support, a dotnohment of Engineers can not bo despatched by England for tho defenco of Horat. This is serious tidings, for it moans that " ttio key of India" will bo left almost at tho mercy of tho Russians, oven supposing tho Afghans to resist tho invasion with thoir wonted bravery, and that Sir Petor Lumsdon and his small band of I,'IOD Indian troops will havo to faco the disagreeable alter natives of capturo by the Russians or massacre by tho Afghans. Tho danger of this will bo ovident when it is re membered that England's army at I'ishin is 400 miloa from tho scono of impending con flict, whilo tho Russian troops aro within 50 mllos of Horat. As the Ameer's conception of an oltonsivo and dofonfivo alliauco in of such a poculiur kind as to mako him objoct to tho British occupying Herat, tho likelihood is ho will resist any iidvanuo of our troops through his territory, so that long delay and stubborn fighting would havo to be faced before the roliof of Horat could bo achieved. His present action, amounting practically to a repudiation of tho British ullinnco, is quito characteristic of Afghan policy, which has boon marked by groat shiftiness, combined with a rugged and often misguided idoa of in depondenco. Abdurrahman Khan, plied with bribes and promises by both Eng land aud Russia, probably considors that inmi'dioiulimmus ibis, and hopos to prevent tho absorption of lii.i kingdom by ono or other of tho ['overs through main taining a neutral attitude, though such will bo extromuly dilfioult for tho war-loving Afghans to do when thoiv country is tho theat.ro of operations. Tho result of tho Ameer's extreme joalousy (to call it by no harder natn«) will be to render doubly arduous and prolonged tho task which lies boforo tho British army of main taining the intogrity of Afghanistan against Russian aggression.

The Resignation of M. Giers.

A rkuter's message today confirms tho report cabled yesterday declaring that tho resignation of 51. do Giors, tho Russian Foreign Minister, is oxpectcd. Should such ovont happen, its uignilicanco will bo distinctly warlike, as may b.3 learned by tho following extract from tho London "Times": — "It is certain thnt thcro aro two parties in Russia, just as it ia certain that thoro aro two opinions umong thoso who govorn that country. According to tho ono class, Russia should tuko all nho can, oxtend her frontier as far us posoiblo, and occupy ovory pieco of territory within reach. Those who tuko thi.s view loso no dianco of reminding hh that Russian Ambassadors, above ail thoeo who should know England hotter than othors, have never ceased to docluro to their (jovernmont that tho Knglish aro not in a position to resist an aggression of Kuseiu, i\nd that tho Kuswiin iirniiea can, without striking a blow, lay hands on all tlio terri tory which England hn.i declared to Uo under hor protection, (icnortil Tuhornuicll' and (icnorul Sobolefl'aro tho truo rcprCßOll lativos of tliis party. Tho others, on Iho contrary, would liko Russia to stop on tho road to Afghanistan, to bonatidtiod forttomu timo with what f>ho now posaosscs, not to provoko a conllict with England, and to avoid v complication, of which her enemies. taj;oto roduco her as much in pno diroction as sho would gum in another. These, 1 must admit, havo. with them M, do (Jier.«, who is a most resoluto advorsary of any im mediato action which could lead to a con llict with England, to tho foil of Mr Glad stono, and tho olovation to power of his op pononts. It is in consoquonco of tho opposi tion of thoso two parties in public lifo, in tho Press, and in Iho Covornmont, that wo can ostublish tho oxistonco of two contra dictory currants, pno pacific and tho other warliko, ono favourable to concessions and tho other full of uggreasivo ideas."

Ono of tho oldest landmarks in tho city of Auckland, tho Churton monument, at tho top of Shortland Croecont, was domolinhod yostorday. Tho inscription plato has beon preserved.

Tho Auckland .slock and sharo market rcmaina inactive without any immediate signs of improvomont. During tho wcok Bales have boon inndo as followH :—Colonial Bank, 'lls ; Union Insurance, 22a ; National, 20s ; Cambrias, 8n 3d ; Darwin, 7s 7d to Hd. Buyonj and sellers at lust wcok'n quotations.

At tho mooting of tho Board of Education yesterday aftorncon, tho sum of £10 was granted towards tho Ellcrslio School library, a similar sum having beon rained by rocidonts. Tho Hnrnpipi Committee complained of tho oxecssivo ntiinbor of lioli days, but no action was takon upon this mattor.

Nominations won) rocoived on Friday by Mr T, VV, Seaman as rotuniing oflicor at Littlo Muddy Crock for Titiiangi-Manukau Hoad Board, as follows :—For tho Manukau subdivision Mr Hugh Robert Laing only was nominated and doclarod elected ; for tho Titirangi subdivision, Moss™ N. CJ. Lennox and John Porter wore nominated, and one only boing required, a poll will bo takon at Titirangi School-room on Tuesday, May sth, from 'J a.m. to C p.m.

C. \V, Langston, a volorinary surgeon of Whangarei, and John Laing, of Kawakawa, liavo beon committed for trial on a charge of conspiring to dofraud. Langston has beon brought to town to await trial, whilo Laing line boon admitted to hail,

Thoro was anothor very suocossful por formonco at tho Circus last evoning. Tlio programmo was tho Bamo as that prosonted on tho provioua ovoning. This aftornoon thoro was a matitioo performance, which was largoly attended by dolightod little ones. To-night is tho last proaontation of tlio present programme

A Dovonport rosidont informs us that the old man, Edward Armour, bottor known as " Old Nod," was not starving at tho North Shore. Captain Fioldor took a personal in toroHt in his caso, and on loaving North Shoro tho Captain did not forgot him, but loft a sum of monoy to bo paid weekly to "Old Ned." Tho neighbours also havo assisted him. At tho same timo all agree that ho is a propor eubjoct for tho Kofuge.

At tho school-room,llobsonvi!lo,on Thurs day, 23rd inst,, the only candidates nomin ated to (ill tho two ordinary vacancies in the Waipareim Road Board wero Messrs Frederick C, Smith and Thomas Scott, and being the number required, tho Returning Officor, Mr Soamun, declared them duly oloctcd.

Woodyenr'a Circus wan groatly nnnoyod laat night by a group of larrikin!l, who cut ono of tho guys of the lent and played up other equally mischievous pranku. A policeman will be in attendance tonight.

Nominations wore received by Mr F. H. Heighway, Returning Officer, at the Eden Terrace Road Board's Office on Saturday, 25th inst., to fill a vacancy in tho Board of that diotrict. T. W, Freeman being pro posed, and only one being required, was declared duly olectcd.

Tho presentation of tho citizens' address and testimonial to Mr John Cosgnivo, on the ovo of his departure for San Francisco will be made by the Mayor at the City Coun cil Chambors on Tuesday. Tho illuminated address is on view :vt Upton's.

Prondorgast, (ho Pokono murdoror, lias boon oxaminod by Ors. Conm and Mc- Mullon, who prononnco him to bo insane. The telegram instructing his romoval was received by tho Kcniiiont Magistrate.

Wo loam that tlio Baud of Hope Union havo amalgamated with the Blue Uibbon Army, and proposo to hold a monetor moot ing in the Theatro Koyal on Tuesday evening next, on the occasion of the fare well to Mr Capper. The special feature of the arrangoment is that the members of Bands of Hope will repeat tho nieces mine at the last annuul gathering, with ;t few of those in prep.u-at.ion for tho forthcoming anniversary. Tho members aro to meet for reheatjal on Monday evening in St. James's Hall, Wollingtou-streot,

Tho Socioty of Arts Exhibition continues to be well patronised. Last evening the Orchostral Society's practice took placo in tho hall, and proved a considerable atti ac tion.

Tho Roy. J. 11. Jonca will resume his ministerial dutios to-morrow at tho I'onsonby Baptist Church. Mr .Tout's in a young man, only 24, is a native of North Wales, and was educated at a college of which his father was president, lie camo to this colony for tho benefit of his health, and was appointed pastor of tho I'onsonby Church for a period of six months. His health is much improvod recently, and years of usefulness, it ia hoped, aro boforo him.

A boy named ,11111103 Handy has been brought from tite Tliumos for committal to Training School at Kohimaraina.

Fleming, who came from Wlmngarei about six wooks ago with a fractured leg, had tho limb amputated at tho Hospital to-day.

A full mustorof tho Attillory Company left for North Shoro for gun practice this afternoon, Tho ferry stoamers woro crowded with pooplo intont upon examin ing tho defenco works at tho North Head. The young man Far man, who lost his hand at tho Kauri Point Sawmills, Ono hunga, is, wo aro glad to loam, recovering rapidly under tho caro of Dr Scott. A successful amputation of tho romains of tho hand was eil'octcd, and tho wounds mo rapidly healing.

A niro collection of genuine natural curiosities is just now on exhibition in Queen-street on a vacant nllotmont a fow doors abovo tlio Savings Bank. The lend ing exhibit is a beautifully devoloped stulliou in mirmturo —a veritable eqnino pigmy Althonpll 4 yenrs old it stands only "27 inches high, and weight) but 351ba., whilo thoso who like to bo sure boforo they pay may sec its travelling box outside the tent. It is symmetrical in figure, and of handsome appearance - in fact, a regular Httlo toy. It is also highly intelligent. Such a novelty has nover boforo been seen in Auckland. In addition, there aro a Hell-grown lamb with throe logs, and a phlegmatic cow with live horns, ono of which stands out from the forohoad 'iko that of the fabled unicorn. Tho Show ia really well worth seeing.

Tho following cases woro taken to day at tho I'olico Court boforo 11, G. Scth Smith, Ksq., R.M., and disposed of as under: — Thomas Bronnan, habitual drunkard, fined .115, or in default, 14 days' imprisonment. Robert McTvor, no visiblo means. Constables Hanson and Koony proved that prisoner had no homo and objected to work ; ho was a loafor at hotel corners, »nd took his plumbers on door stops. One month's imprisonment. Wil liam Riloy, found by night in a etablo belonging to Edwin Fairbnvn, of Munukuu

Hond, Parnoll, 14 days' imprisonment. Two young childron named Winguto woro commitlod to tho TliainuH Orphanago, tho mother, .ro*Mo Wingato, of Newton, being unablo to support them. Tho St. Sopulchro'a (iloo Club ropoated their concert given in tho Hchool-room last week at tho Forcstors' Hall in aid of tho now church of tho Epiphany. Tho at tendanco was good, and much interest was s'lown by tho audionco, and sovoral of tho singers woro encored, Mr Rico conducted. At the closo of tho proceedings, tho Kov. Dr. O'Callaghan proposed a hearty voto of thanks to tho mcmborH of tho Club, con gratulating thorn on thoir efficiency and kindnofs. At tho name time ho paid a woll mcritcd tributo of respect to tho Yon. Arch doacon Du.lloy. The wholo closed with tho National Antliom. Mr George Aldriilgo lectured in tho now Edon Hall, Summor-stroot, last ovoning on tho "Spirits in Prison." Tho locturor quoted many texts from Holy Writ in sup port of hia argument, which went to provo that Iho preaching was not dono by, or in tho timo of Noah, as generally Biipposod,

but by tho Saviour after Ho was ri^en from tho dead, and Unit tho Hpirito proached to wore not tho disembodied spirit a nf dead

men, but tho sous of Ood—Gen. vi.ehnp. —or angola who had fullon from their firwL estate, and wore reserved in pits of dark ness until Iho judgment-. Tlio laxt* quoted from wei-o M Pot iii. 17, 19, 2nd Pol, ii. 1, Jndo l>, Kpli. vi. 12. Tho lecturer con cluded a very nblo address by earnestly ov horting his hoartrs not to believe thnt what ho hud told thorn was truo beciauso ho said no, but to go to tho Book and soai'ch for thoniaulvcs. Tho lecturo olicitcd a con siderable amount of good-natured discus sion. Next Friduy tho subject, will .bo, ''ra'flra rotator; Blr,—l notico in UioUbuo of tho 25th inst. of tho "Horuld" a lettor signed G, K. referring to tlio contract ob tninod by Mr Knllon for tlio Thamoa Valley- Hotorua Railway. G. R. scorns to doubt tho impartiality of tho engineer, and I think ho has ovory reason to do so. It must bo patont to all tho contractors but ono that it i.s practically a wasto of time to tender whilo thoro ia such a monopoly given. From facts in <!, K.'n lottor, nlno from a letter signed Isaac Coatcs, which appeared a fow days sinco with roforenco to tho Maramarua canal contract, any boy bctwoon Morrlnsvillo and Lichliold could inform you that tho above railway would bo t'allon's job.—Yours, etc., 0, M.

An exchange asks : "Will tho coming woman work ?" That will depend upon huvv luzy her husband is.

Vollbracht'n Tobacco Company announco tlmt tho timn for dislributlug tobticoo BCOd has beon extontled for a month.

Tho annual mooting of tho Auckland Football Association, aa will bo aeon by ad vei'tliioinent. will bo held ut tho United Sorvioo Hotel at 8 o'clock. A largo mooting is uxpeotod.

It is notified olsowhoro that tho membor- Blilproll of tho Auckland Parliamotary Union for the purposes ot the forthconiinK gonoral elootionn clouch on Saturday noxt, at I p.m., aud that all wheat) names have heen registered up till that time will bo regarded as candidates Only new members uro required to pay tue entrance too of 6a.

, To-morrow (Sunday) the incumbent of St. MaUhew'H Church, Urn Itov, Wm. Tcblw, M.A.. will pri'noh in tliu morning a special sermon on "Thu .Sword of Juhovuh." iinaln thu evening on "Kvolutlon or Progression." Itov. C. M. Nelson, M.A., St. Paul's, will deliver disennrsos morning, on "Henlro for l'oace," and in tho evening, " Italnnm—a Study for tho Times." Kov. it. Komorvillo will conduct tho sorvlooa at .St i'clor'g I'rosbyt-orlnn Church. Annivcr pary services will bo hold at the Wcoleyan Cliurolics of Xoivmarkot nnd Arch Hill, and ordinury services as unnouncod elsewhere.

" Now Zealand Farraor, 800 and Poultry Journal."-Mr John 1). Walklnton, Wavorloy, writes with reference to tho abovo periodical:—

"Ihavotho March nuuibor; it alono Is worth nil the inonoy. I only trust you may bo able to keep it, up to present standard. I shall do all I can to help yotiinrecommendinK'it. Tho wcok bo forolgot yoursamplo number (March), I had cpont a day and a half looking through back numbers of tho ' Fiold,1 to hunt out an article ro Clicswiok applo congress, with no succoss."

Wo aro in receipt of a copy of tho pro eriinimo of Ilio Otuliuhn Mulmil Improvomont Asaociation for tho llrst half-year o£ tho t woltth session, and notices that Monday ovoning n^xt, boing tho evening nearest the anniver sary of Shakcspcnro's birthday. !s to bo devoted exclusively to tho representation of tho works of tho immortal bard. "The Ghost Kccno" from " Hamlet," and scenes from " Othello " and other plays will bo ropro- Bonteil, and ultopolhor n pleasant and prollt abla evening should bo spent.

Gas consuinors aro reminded that Mon day, tho '27th Inst., at 5 p.m., is tlio last day on which discount in allowed on Riis and coke accounts.

COLONIAL FEDERATION.

Debate In the House of Lords.

(HV C-iBLK. — COPrBIOHT.)

London, April 24. During the debate on tho second reading of the Federation Enabling Bill in tho Houso of Lords, Lord Derby said that the abstention of New South Wales from federation might possibly raise a fatal ob jection to the measure. The action of the Government of that colony was inspired by doubt, and not by hostility to the bill, and a clause hud boon inserted mainly to ro lnovo theso objections, and he thought tho colonists would accopt the decision of Tarlia ment in tho matter.

Tho Earl of Delawarr considered that a complete union of the colonies was im possible at prosont, although it would be madness to reject tho schomo, ITo approved of tho objections by tho colonios to seces sion, which had been printed and circulated by thoir Agents-General.

Lord Carnarvon thought that the omiseion of clause 31, providing for the withdrawal of any colony, would postpone federation for years.

Lord Bury said tho bill would be a leap in tho dark pending tho decision of New South Wales. Tho "Times " says that federation with out Now South Wales would provo of littlo value.

THREATENED RUSSIAN WAR.

(Bi' CABLE.—COPYRIGHT.)

RUSSIAN SQUADRON LEAVES THE BALTIC.

Russia Wants Herat.

London, April 24. ' It is roportcd that a Russian squadron of 20 sail has passed the island of Gottland in the Baltic, bound to tho southward. The Russian press are clamouring for Horat. The Ameer's Friendship Doubtful. Iho dotachment of engineers which was to havo boon despatched to Horat will not now proceod, as tho Ameer has not givon a guarantee of support. The Russian Foreign Minister's Resignation. St. Pbtersbubg, April 24. It is oxpocted that M. do Gicrs will shortly resign tho portfolio of Minister of Foreign Affaiis. AUSTRALIAN TROOPS VOLUN TEER TO GO TO INDIA. London, April 24. Tho Australian contingent now serving in the Soudan havo oflbred to go to India should occasion arise for their services. 11. M. Invincible for Singapore. H.M.S. Invinciblo has been ordered to proceed to Singapore. [The Invinciblo is a Boa-going ironclad, built of iron, with 8 inches of armour-plato at tho bolt; 6,010 tons displacement; moan draught, lDjj feet. Sho'carriofl ten 12-ton guns, muzzle-loaders. Her indicated horso-powor is 4,830, and her speed 14"1 knots. Sho was launched in 1809]

MR GLADSTONE ON THE CRISIS.

The Agents General Consider War

Certain

London, April 2-1

In the ilouso of Commonß, Mr Gladstono announced that Her Majosty's Government was now engaged in negotiations of an ox trcinol> gravo natiiro with Russia, and it was therefore impossible for him to make a statomont to tho House at tho present junc ture. Tho "Daily News" this morning, in a loading articlo on tho Afghan question, saya that tho only hopo of poaco that ia poßgiblo is in tho conclusion of an agree mont delimiting tho frontier lino of Afghan istan, and adds that tho negotiations now in progress for that end aro not of a hopo less nature. Mkluoubnk, April 24. Tho Government is in receipt of a tele graphic dospatch from tho Agont General, Mr Murray Smith, to the effoct that war is inevitable, though not itnmodiato. A;>klaide, April 24. Sir Arthur Blythe, tho South Australian Agent-General in London, telegraphs to tho Government that affairs huvoa very warlike tondoncy.

THE STRIKE ON THE MAIL STEAMER.

Tho Enginoors lionvo Work.

(11Y CAULK-COI'YHIGHT)

Sydney, this day. Tiu. ouu» not"''1 I'flV'! nn hoard tho

duy. Tho agonta nro making ovory orr dcavour to arrango for tho steamer's depar turo today.

Fropoaod Action by the Auokland Unions,

Tho dispute between Captain Wobber, of tho R.M.H, Zcalandia and tho Trades Unions of Sydnoy has assumed a much more serious phaso than is generally sup posed, and tho real facts aro only too likoly to bo brought moro forcibly boforo us by similar complications arising upon arrival of tho Zoalandia in this port. Notwithstand ing tho strike, tho Sydnoy agents of tho stoamor expect to got her nwoy for Auckland at noon to-day, nnd in that caso she would arrivo hero about Wednesday afternoon next. Sho would, howovor, require to coal hero, and also to ship tho groator portion of her crow for continuation of hoi' voyage to San Francisco. In viow ef this contingency a moot ing of tho Auckland Trades and Labour Council was hold loefc ovoning to consider what was tho boat course to adopt in tho interests of tho societies represented in that body. Amongst thoso prosont wore tho Prosidont and Secre tary of tho Seamon's Union nnd delegates from tho Enginoers'and Lutnpors'Societies, all of whom are bound by their rules to assist tho Unions in Sydnoy, with which they aro connected. After some discussion the follow ing resolution was pasßod:—"That this Council sympathises with tho seamen's strike in Sydney, and will give ovory sup port for tho furtherance of tho objects desired by tho Now South Walos Seamen's Union." Meetings of tho Seamen's, Lumpers', and Engineers' Societies are now to bo held to further consider the action to bo taken upon arrival of the steamer in this port. The causo.of tho dispute is undoubt edly tho employment of Chineso labour, which is affoctod by two of tho principal rules of tho Seamon's Union. Rule 12 says:—"Membors of this Union shall in intercolonial and coasting steamers, and other vobsols, sail with Union men only." Of course tho Chinoso are not Union men, and tho troublo is that they work so much choapor than Europeans. Captain Webber is paying his Chinese firemen £5 ia per month, while Union mon requiro £0, a very important difference, and on a voeael like tho Zoalandia representing a large Bum of money. The manner in which the Auckland Unions held out in their roconfc strike against the Northern Steam ship Company showed great perseverance and determination,: and amongst those who are likely to be ofl'orod work on the Zea landia there exists; an apparent inclination for a repetition of the scenes which were then daily witnessed, and which resulted in a victory for the Unionists. These societies profoss to carry out their rules with all possible fairness, so that it is possible matters can bo amicably arranged by some concessions mutually agreed upon between themselves and Captain Webber.

TELEGRAMS.

Blenheim, this day.—The half-yearly sittings of the SupromojCourt open on Tues day, The calendar comprises four prisoners on charges of false pretonces, the unusual offences of forgery and rapo, and there aro also sovoral civil cases, bankruptcy appli cations, end appeals from the B.M. Court,

TuiAru, this day.—At tho 11, M. Court yoslorday, Lionel Edmund Henry Corbett pleaded guilty to two charges of obtaining money by means of valueless cheques. Accused is a young man extremely well connected at Home, and is in receipt of an allowance from his father.

Fire at a Restaurant.

Christchurch, this day.—At 4 a.m. to day a fire occurred in the old Post Office, Market Square, occupied by W. J. Foßter, as a cheap restaurant and lodging house. The rooms at the north end of the building were gutted. Seven people were steeping on the premises. All esciped, though thoy lost their belongings. The fen loitig belong* to the City Cuncil, and was insured for £300 in tho Now Zealand office Foster's furniture is in sured for £200 in tho same office.

Dunedin, this day.—The Rev. Fred K. D. Powell has been appointed to the vacant incumbency of St Matthew's.

DEFENCE NOTES.

It is expected that the North Head fortifica tion will bo ready for defensive and offensive operations next week, the recent fine weathor having enabled Mr Bell to push on the works more rapidly than lie could possibly have expected. Tlio appearance of the quaintly-shaped headland that guards the ontrance to our harbour lws been wonderfully changed during tUo past throa wooks. Only a few days ago, its green roundqd outline, with the placid water rippling at its baso, might have been taken as a typo of peace, while a Wordsworth or a Cowper might have drawn the inepira tion for a pastoral from its placid beauty ; now Mars baa descendod upon it, ami with eager talons has scarred the old headland with tronches, dotted with bastions and parapets and placed deep-voiced iron throated dogs of war on its grassy slopes._ An Auckland gontloman who was in China about three^ months ago states that beforo ho lefttho "Land of tho Pigtail" a rood deal of interest had been occasioned in that part of the world by tho English Go vornment purchasing all the <;oul available in the different ports on tho China station, while tremondouH advance orders weio given. It is very evident from this that the British authorities do not undorrate the power of tho Kussian tleet in the Pacific. Tho Hlnomoa's Movements. Tho Government steamer Ilinemoa left Auckland for Kussoll and Whangarei on Thursday night, her passengers being Major Cautley, Lieut. Douglas, Col. Lyon, Mr Murlin, Inspector of Public Buildings, and Mr C. Y. O'Connor, of tho Public Works Department. Mr Smyth, torpedo instruc tor, was to have been a passenger, but just boforo tho departure of the steamer he was detained. Russell was reached at G o'clock yesterday morning, when^Major Cautley at once proceeded by special train to the coal mines. Threehourssufricedto "do"thoßay, and at 10 o'clock tho Hinomoa was steaming Southward again. Whangarei was reached at 330 yestorday aftornoon, and Major Cautley having examined tho Kamo mine, tho voseol took hor doparturo at 6 p.m. At 11 o'clock, Kawau was reached, whore Major Cautley, accompanied by Captain Faircbild, went ashore, and paid their respects to Sir George Grey. Thoold Knightwaeinbed, but this did not hindor him from having a long conversation with his visitors on the situation. Sir George had had no nown from tho outer world sinco Tuesday, coneoquontly tho files of the Stak with tho stirring news of the last fowdays that Captain Fairchild left with him could not but fail to prove interesting. Sir Goorgo expressed an opinion that in all probability tho sword alone would cut the Gordian knot. Leaving tho Kawau at 4 a.m., Captain Fairchild brought his vessel alongside the outer too of Queen-street Wharf at 7 o'clock this morning. At 7.30 Major Cautloy wont by the ferry steamer to tho North Head, and spont some hours inspecting the fortilicationp. Lieut. Douglas proceeded to tho office at tho Supreme Court Uuildings. It has not transpired what decision tho defence officers have arrived at regarding the defence of Bay of Islands and VVhangaroi, but it is very improbable that anything will be done. The quantity of coal obtainable by a hostile cruiser at either port is so small as to bo scarce worth defending. Tho Hinomoa leaves for Napier and Wellington at S o'clock this evening. Militia Officers. The Hon, Mr Ballanco, Minister for Dofenco has telegraphed to Colonel Lyon, Commandant of tho Militia and Volunteers in this district, intrusting him to receive applications ior commissions, and also for positions as noncommissioned officers in tho Militia, Such applications with parti culars as to litnosa for oilico applied should bo sent to Colonel Lyon,Militia- and A olun tcor olfico. A Press Association telegram announces that the militia will bo called in a week.

DEFENCE ACTIVITY AT WEL LINGTON.

First Class Militia Called Out.

Wki.ijncton, tliin day

The first-class Militia arc to be called out immediately. The ollicsrs aro appointed. Tho Militia will includo all the married and singlo men bctweon tho nj;cs of 17 and HO.

Tho Voluntoors uro called out for Mon day to rcpol v supposed liostilo forco, nnd yaciiMliy iincr rowing mon at Nvellington. A largo number of ollicors in tbo former Militia will bo taken on, and others will bo appointed on probation, but will have to pass an examination within a certain period. War Preparations In Now Zealand. Wkllinoton, this day.

The Volunteors aro to bo called out on Monday afternoon, whon they will bo on gugod in a sham light and other field move ments. Tho Militia will probably be called out in a week. Tho Dofonco of Port Lyttolton. Chkistohukcu, this day. It has been determined to complete tho defonco works at Lyttelton with the utmost possible despatch. Orders havo accordingly boon issuod to carry on tho construction by night as well as by day. Enpiuoor iCorps for Duncdln. Dusemn, this day. Thcro was considerable enthusiasm at a meoting hold last night to form an Engineers' Corps, Ovor 100 volunteered to join, and it j was docidod to ask tho Defence Minister to ! consent to tho cnrolmont of a hundred. Defenoos of Now South Wales. Sydney, this day. At a spocinl Cabinot Council held to-day it was resolved to push forward the con struction of the dofonco works with the utmost expedition.

THE OPERA HOUSE.-" East Lynne."

The over-popular emotional drama of "East Lynne"was produced last ovening at Abbott's Opera House, and had the effect of attracting a large and appreciative audienco. Tho programme was a most suc cessful ono, and tho leading artistes were honoured with repeated calls before the curtain. Miss de Groy sustained the dual r6les of tho misguidod Lady Isabel and tho repentant Madame Vino. Ample oppor tunity was thus given for the display of thoso versatile histrionic powers which the lady has already proved that sho possoeses in no small degree. Her conception of the parts was true and life-like, and her imper sonation of them powerful, though natural. Mr Norton Solten was most successful as Captain Lovison, and Mrs Walter Hill com pletely carried the house with her as. Cornelia. Mr Hilton as Archibald and Miss Cowell as Barbara Hare both acquitted themselves creditably. Miss Ginx King horne, a clover child, took the part of Willie Carlyle, and performed her task with considerable ability for one so yosing. Tho other characters wero fairly sustained. Thore will bo anolhor change of programme this evening, when "Tho Country Girl" will be produced for tbo firat timo in Auck land. "The Country Girl" To-night. Another genuine attraction is promised at tho Opora Houso to:night, when, from the limbo of fast-gathoring oblivion, ono of the characteristic comedies of a past age will be drawn forth and presented to the public. We refer to Wycherley's "Country Girl," It is, howovor, an adaptation from the original so altered as to rendor it unobjec tionable to nn audienco of tho present timo. Tho plot is broadly humorous. A middle aged man is engaged to a rustic, unsophis ticated lass, and during a visit to London his solo aim is to keep her unacquainted with fashionable life. On the other hand, a young man of the town is pledged to a lady whom he would like to see admired by everybody, and it affords him considerable pleasure even to see a friend make love to his betrothed before his face. Tho upshot of affairs is that both gentlemen are jilted in consequence of tho lino of action which they adopt, and they laugh at ono another heartily in their misfortune. In the course of the incidents considerable amusement is created by the circumstance of tho astute and jealous Moody and the pilly anil unsuspecting Sparkish aliko un consciously assisting in their own discom fiture Tho part of tho Country Girl is one with which distinguished name 3 are asso ciated. It was a favourite assumption of Peg Wellington's, and also of the incom parable comic actress Miss Jordan. It is reckoned among Mias De Grey's successes.

"STAR" WAR MAP OF AFGHANISTAN.

Without the aid of a map it is impossible to understand tho question which now monaces tho peace of the Empire, or to follow intelligently tho daily cable despatches describing the development of ovents. We therefore present our readers to-day with a map of Afghanistan, show ing the relations of that country to Ruaeia and to India. The sketch map of Europe and Asia, and tho map of the frontier, in dicating in fuller detail the town", roads, rivers, and disputed boundaries, will aid in the comprehension of the question at, issue, and of the military move ments whicli have already been ro corded, or mny bo chronicled if war should go on. Tho map, which has been prepared at very considerable expense, ought to bo kept for future reference. A word or two in explanation of the situation may be useful to readers who liavo not followed tho course of events very closely. The leading positions will be easily found. The Russian forces under (ionoral Komarolf'are now encamped in tho vicinity of Panjdoh, on tho northwestern border of Afghanistan, and at Pol i-Khatun nd Zuliigar, on the Kiver Ueri-Rud, which ividos Afghanistan from Persia. Their head-quarters is at Harakhs, a town ceded by Persia, commanding the road to Askabad and tho Caspian, and also the road southward* along the valley of tho Hen-Rud to Herat In the event of war, the RuFsian troops will bo reinforced from the direction of the Caspian. If the reader will now refer to the general map, he will pee the town of Kras novodsk marked on the eastern shore of the Caspian Sea. From this point a railway has beenconstrunted as far as Kizil-Arvat on the route to Askabad. So far on the road to Afghanistantransportwouldbeeasy. Acroes the Caspian, a flotilla of steamers would convey troops to Baku, on the western shore of that sea. This place is now connec ted with tho general system of Russian rail ways, and also with the fortified port of Batoum.on the Black Sea. Troops can advance easily along these routes. From Kizil-Arvat to Sarakh?, however, the advanco would be by road, and conse quently slow and tedious. Russian Advances In Asia and their Object. Tho rapid advances of Russia in Central Atia have been a source of some uneasiness to English statesmen for tho last thirty years. Novertheless,it was recognised that the extension of boundaries was partly a nocoseity of her position in maintaining a border which waß subject to incursions from restless predatory tribes; it was also adaitted that in subduing the barbarians of Central Asia to aomothing like order, Rusth was doing good work in the cause of Civilisation. Testimony ie borne to thiß fact even by those who foreseo the menace which Rußrian advances offer to the British posi tion in India. A strong and settled Gc vernmont enables the people to apply them selves to settled industry, and a recent English visitor to Armenia states that tho narrow stream which forms the dividing lino between tho Turkish dominions and tho territory coded to Russia after the last Russo-Turkish war is marked on the Turkish sido by sloth and decay, and on tho other side by progress, cultivation, and pros perity. This view of Russian advances was not confined to one political party. Speaking in 1867 on this subject, Sir Stafford North cote, as a member of the Bcaconsfield Cabinet, said: — ' "Upon this point her Majesty's Govern ment see no roason for any uneasiness or for any jealousy. Tho conquests which Russia has made, and apparently ia etill making, in Central Asia, appoar to them to be the natural result of the circumstances in which sho finds herself placed, and to afford no grpund whatever for representations indicativo of suspicion or alarm on the part of this country. Friendly communications have at various titucß passed between the two Governments on tho fubject, and, should an opportunity offer, her Majesty's Government will avail themselves of it_ for the purpo.se of obviating any po?siblo danger of iMSUndoi'Btandiug, either with ro?pcct to the proceedings of Russia or to those of England. This is all that it appears nocefisnry or desirable to do." During tho last fow years, however, the inouaco to India from this forward Musco vite movement, has become more ominous,

and litUojUtcmpt has beoiuiia^to^conceal istan, via tho Caspian, baa been steadily developed by tho construction of railways, the establishment of military depots, and tho building of transports on tho great inland sea. The Central Asian deeerts are avoided by this route, and the frontier poets which havo been established on the main road through Afghanistan are made easily accessible from tho Caspian. Merv and Sarakbs, tho latest acquired territories, have been taken in spite of the moat positive assurances of the Court of fct. Petersburg that they would not bo interfered with. Undor thoir well-known General TchernaiefT, Kauffmann, and Sko belcff, tho Russian standards were carried

puccessively through Tashkend, through Khokand, through Bokhara, and ultimately

through Khiva, until the frontiers of China and tho Hindoo Koosh were reached. The

Turkish war of 1877-S—begun tor the pur pose of " protecting tho Christians "—re

suited in the addition of Batoum, Kars, Ardahan, and a large slice of territory as far

as the Soghanli range, to the list of Rus

eian conquesth. Then came the period of Russian influence over Persia by the suppres sion of the Kurdish insurrection, and the cession of Khokur, followed by the crushing defeat of the remaining independent Turko man tribes by Skobeleff in 18S01. And now tho independence of Herat is at stake, and with it the command of the great high way along which the hordes of Central Asia, organisod under Russian command, might bo poured into India.

England's Ability to Resist tlio- Advancing Tide.

Speaking of the present position of affairs and our ability to resist the further advance of Russia, the London "Times" says:— " When Russians talk of carrying matters with a high hand on the Paropamisus and shapinga frontier between the Heri Rud and the Oxus according to their own ideas, they ought to recollect that, even if England be as powerless in Europe as they fancy, wo have in Scindo and Beloochistan alone an army which is numerically equal to that of which General Komaroff has the command. In order to show that we have the means ready to our hand to carry out the necessary policy for the vindication of the Ameer's rights and our own credit, without imposing any undue strain on our resources olsewhere_, we propose to describe the forces now stationed in the Quetta dis- U-ict and in Scinde. Quetto, it may be stated, is 140 miles from Candahar, and 490 miles from Herat; while Askabad, the Russian position to which it corresponds, is only 350 miles from Herat, and about 270 miles from Penjdeh. The Russians have the advantage of greater proximity to the scone of action, but not so much as*to make it appear .doubtful that Afghan opposition to Russia would effectually counter-balance it. Although eight years have elapsed Bince Quetta was first occupied under the terms of tho Treaty of 1854 with the Khan of Khelat, it is within a comparatively short period that it has acquired the great mili tary importance it possesses today. As a military station it now ranks with Peshawar, and its position among our Indian cautonments is unique from the fact that it has no large city or turbulent popu lation to ovorawe. The execution of Goneral John Jacob's policy boyond the Scinde frontier has been attended with tho happiest results. Our presence has pacified Beloochistan, and we have acquired a mili; tary position of great strategical value well in advance of the Indus. Five years ago it was feared that the new Govern ment would relinquish the advantages acquired by their predecessors in this quarter; but, fortunately, Quetta and Pishin Valley have been retained, and after four years' neglect their full value is now appreciated, and during the last twelve months moasures havo been adopted to make the most of our positisn the Bolan Pass. We will say nothing of the steps taken to turn Quetta into a fortress, partly because fortresses are not in har mony with the character of our rule in India, and p.irtly because those steps are still to some extent dependent on the com pletion of the railway. It is as the centre of a military district, as the headquarters of a division of the Indian army, that Qiictta is of the greatest importance at tho prosent conjuncture." The summary of forces enumerated by the "Times" shows that " there would bo no difficulty in despatching an army of 15,000 men into Afghanistan without any extraneous aid. It could be raised to 25,000 men by a rein forcement of 5,000 troops from Bombay and the same number from the Punjaub. There would still bo 11,000 men loft as a garrison tit Scinde, considerably more than there have been on equally critical occasions!. The weak point of tho force forming the Qiiotlu division is cavalry, precisely the ono in which it should be moat strong. Four ! regiments of horeo for tho wholo of the region j from the Indus to the Afghan frontier I,

are too few. They oueht tn lTT^'^ Wo already know? however 10 fc?oo^ recent ordera, a muohlareerf^ ' ""det already massed c- mS 'f^V Pishin, and Cbaman, lß^ S»%^: Roberts, and that probably L fi6Di * i forty or fifty thousand w?£&W speedily placed in the field win, ald~ W ■ i^ofiersofassistan^^gl

THE AFGHAN BOUNDARY COM MISSION.

Origin of the Preset o^,

Russian conquests in Central * ■ '"":. brought her advance owmi '. > "?? m wvin. of Afghanistan, iihiob a B ttlSf,'^W ment have, repeatedly acknoS entirely with in thepaleof EmM tob« it became necessary to jTb S f that limit should bo. It mustt ° ,*^' that the country north of th, p *x^«ed ' mountains ie occupied by TurW°plllnifi!«; although the Ameer has Jw&^WK suzerainty over a portion of thanW# it has never been etrictly within tus'?fe dominions. Many maps dW\ . ghlir" boundary south of PenM e h eluding the territory claiied'bvß* On our genera! and sketch mam Snf'" found clearly marked the diaS r ke ; frontier. The most nortfißJftji, marked on the very recent Indian ft mont map,, and i, also the line fibEfr"' the first proposals from Kussia Z 7^" mission to dUine the Afghan bounLtK Harakhs to Xo K ah Saleb. &fcfc is one commonly found on EbßliT^S6'l- Afghanistan, a,d the eoutheKSf proposed by M. whowaeZ'sli1 Kus3ian Government early this v *^;" special mission to London to secnSf acceptance of tins frontier. Thn*L-J^*1 ceedings, which have led un to rtt^f^' strained relations between Enrf P^ V' Braia, are admirably described b»^ lowing article, which apneMriF'SfP" "Madras Times" of the iffi^L * * which gives a very clear idea oflS* Bhould define accurately -ft, 2S*." boundary of Afghanistan was^pSffl • originated from Russia herself. sKs" less made it for the BolemS-j amusing England while •ih^aSSV reality transgressing those bonntoS was surprised at England's tardy aSt of a proposal made in 1882, andSf^ epatch of a Frontier CommissioSt delimitation of the boundaries of B

CABLEGRAMS.

(BY CABLED COPYEIOHI,);:-'; The Frenoh Onawei n j^j Paris, April 24. - It is experteJ^ ' j amicable settlement of tho;?Bm^', Egyptien" incident wiU be arrived^ I the French and Egyptian Qemnmo J I The Prince and Princo*« of m^ fr I Ireland, ■ ■ I London, 24th April—The Frtae'^ 1 Princoßs of Wales have arrived •tHfe' I where a great deal of entharfaam at }itfr" i vieit was displayed. • "''''""* ";i I Commercial Eeporti" ■.',..1 Londo.v, April 23.-Coiißol!'ifflja || 1 9oJ. Tho bank rate remains at %vji\^ I market rate at 2f per <xnl He W I reserve in notes and bullion aHhs&j^.B England is £17,200,000, an tasso i 1 half a million during the « Vs I proportion of reserve to liabilities iiitJlfi' I per cent. ■ Now Zealand securities mnMi jjltf I quotations, viz,, .4 per cent iMflw, H 1001 ; 4i per cent, stock, 100^:4 petcit I inscribed stock, 90J. " - 5j Colonial breadstuffg: Tallowiinucimjiii ■ SiDNiii', April 24,-New ZealudVliilß has advanced to 23 6d, Sw ZasWoi H remain nt 2a 2d, Maize is qnobedatSsl^ Si a docliuo of 2d; sugar (Go, 't So.ljwl' X £80, f- Auklaide, April24."-WbwtliMdsdia 1" 3s 9d to 3s Bd. The »arbt is very i! 1 -^~,« nuur IB XO WTO*-*,, fcj $ £7 ss. Freights iaJ/adotirmtk^^Mj sailing ships, 22«fa2fe • ' YE

THE CASE OF PRENDERGAST.

(by tkleqrafh—JEK34 ifflOCiimnl X*' WfflU»(iMS,ftl{4 H I The case of Prendergast ia/stfli-midirSi ■» i consideration of the Government So* fjf ; cieion has yet been coqb are being prepared for His Eioetoej. ■• K|

SPORTING NEWS.

The first race-meeting under* MjfcJpJ of the Auckland Polo Club is »«H at Ellerslio this afternoon, "-''r.'?'Jßl The dispute between'thtftaaltofW'Jl | ; and Mr J. I>oro over theraWWnp«l| Meeting, haa been settled ty&^Bgj! paying the wagers taken inwl., , ;■.;»■■ MB ' Mr J, Chadwick's jun#i'-MKWiMJ t died from the injuries l»:i»mJIB running in the SteeplechaseatCmMfKjf

MINING NEWS.

(BY TELEGIUTH—OWN WBBJ^sf|jßH^ Caledonian. - The 1 quartz has been finiened 'Mis.ffi|Bii0 return of 73oza. 7dwts. fI*,WH« from No. 3 level averaged iftJigMV The winze has nowcommqmcwW9«B, _ 3 level, and tho manager tho opening of the block fafSKML; Diamond Gclm (WftWWt^Mj, parcel of 23|ozs. has been >>#•s«£.

TABLE TALK.

Plethora of amusements. , jj VV A A Cabinet CouPoa^ljfliMU; Hngton on Tuesday. ™,!!,£iSH|ru' Wanganni is to b&™*[Tj?m^K i m°Ma°ry Anderson Uintun^^S^^tJ Navvies in Queensland ««fm, it 9s a day. irnMiiSfflHrol" Judge Gillies leaves o™W*Mßidi Taranaki Circuit. , British banks transact y^jMßiglit, banking business of the'gMß Su, Wellington Public HaIICWFJ «j tra a dividend of 7 percent.gWiffiMputt Hon. Mr Larnaoh ten days at Dunedin. - ~"I t^(IM Ho It is suggested that Supremo Court should 31 for Thos. Bowtor, of *ffiJß* pi a passenger for Auckland ■*!(#%»■ A B , Orpheus.. , ', ,i«it« wHHr ° to The writ for Pemnsula ff^^fotit issued noxt week. • 1" 11 '1 Tbo Patent Slip W®?®'J t^iMf o'?*. givos a dividend rf*!"£SW«H «fau b A conference of '"f^* JRI"'I'l' shortly be lold »* Wj^wMVy The tourist traffic to^'l'gWslii^ trict is falling off. , ur "m^BW!"fi Bather rough on tie,GSp»Uily Miesion-to be pnehed f|n this by a prize-fight, 1 A suggestion "«3w^Bfe W' Wales that the colons fgii«Bl oirer JC70,000 reward te «» ■""• jMfeh of rabbit wterminfttion. f^^M 111 Four firemen at D"Jft*/»'Kl 101 yesterday by the hMertrf^.MThe as they were to^SfeilsM** " The Minister °IMjOWKtO^ proposes to amend b compel tho-great u"rVwj^». Cot cut his throat at 2'/(|«!|> « lies in a critical condition » -» It 8 sagas crossing near Anw ( (MHf" A »

(Continred on Fourth Vm\ .

THE 'AUCKLAND fSVJSINJLJNtt STAft. SATURDAY, APHIL 25 1885

2



WANTED, a good Waiter.—Apply, with references, to Commercial Hotel, ShoHlnnd-strat WANTED, Tenders to Cart Bricks, Stones, ivnd Sand from Albort-strcct to \VyiKtham-atrcet.-Be)l Br:s. ~\XT ANTED, Good General Servant.— W Anply MraHanmr, Mount Eden Rood, \y "piper, A Stop*. 1U (cot hiith. It ineurt plpcn In front, ail of which tspcak; boamiftil tono; will bo sold cheap.—Apply i^rofesaor Brooke<, Quaon-3trcnt. IpUll SALK, Lurco Country Store with ' 8 roomed Dwelling. Stables, and Out- ; housos. Stock can bo wkon at a valuation if desired.—For further particu'ara apply to J. 11. Htniloriion, Auctioneer. Qnecn-Btroet. IT^OK SALE, splendid Brussels Carpet ' 135 yds), orlttltml cost, £12, will bo sold for £1 ; only 6 months old.—Apply " C.0.D.," Stab, Ofllco. * GjIOR SALE", a Gi ton Yacht, suitable for JD Flailing or Cruising, Dingy, Sails, and Gear oomploo; Net. &c— Apply to Mr J. Claro, Boatbullder, Cußtoms street West. FOX SALE, 6 ton "Yacht in Good Older, must ba Sold.-Apply James Claro, Boat builder, Frooman'B Bay. FOII SALE, cheap, Lovol Allotment in Snmmor-atreer, close to Ponsonby Koad, 33 x l)J; £00. -Apply H. Hyauiason, BaaßO m iker and_LocKßmlth, Durham-Btrcot. MAGN7FiCENT~contraI-firo 40-guinoi Gun for Sale. — Apply Magnotlo, Stak Ofiloo. GALILEO and tho Fiends of the Holy Inquisition, by " Ivo,' at tho Opera Houso on Sunday Night, Discufalon Invited. NOi'lCtt OB 7 RfIiMUVAL. MANCHESTER FIRE ASSURANCE COMPANY. (Established 1821). CAPITAL .. ONE MILLION STERLING CuiKf Offices : 08, King-etreet. Munohcslor. 80, Choapsido, London. New £bai.and Aoekcv : W. Mo Arthur & Co., Auckland. The office of tho abovo Company hag been re moved to Corn Exchange Buildings, Fort stroot, adjoining Mr G. W. Binney's Auction Mart Insurances i: floe ted at tho lowest current rates. Claims settled locally with promptitude and liberality. FREDERICK NUTTER, General Manager. Mutual Life Association of australasia. established july, 1869. Incorporated by Act of Parliament. the second oldest mutual lifk office in australia, the fihst to FRKK ASSURANCE fiiom RESTRICTIONS, AND THE ONLY ONE Established within tho last 35 years which hi» declared a Bonuß upon AN ABSOLUTELY PURK PREMIUM VALUATION. JJEW ySALANIi QFFICES : 81 QUEEN-STREKT, j^UGKLAND DIRECTORS: A. G. HORTON, Kan.. J.P., Chairman ARTHUR lIKATHKB. Ksq.f T. B. KENDBUDINK, Esq.. M.ItX'.B., Eor. BANKERS: THE BANK Off NEW ZEALAND. SOLICITORS I MESSRS WHITAKKR AMD RUSSBLL, 3rd QUINQUENNIAL INVESTIGATION, it* 80th Juno, 1831, and for which Bonus Cnrtlfl w»t«s were issued January, 1885. showed UH.083 SUSLVLUS OF.. .. £gQ QQQ THK INVESTED FUNDS MOW EXCEED .. .. £400,000 Special Notice. As ail this ASSOCIATION'S POLICIES arb IVDKFK ASIBIiE from date of issue and NON- JfORFEITABLK while Surrender Value lasts, $my are not affected by occupation, residence, iir cause of death, and honce NO EXTRA PKKMIUM IS REQUIRED TO COVEF WAX RISK IN TUTS SOUDAN, OR ANY OTHER PART OF THE WORLD. For TABLES OK RATES and REPORTS of the Progress and Present Poeition of this buo ocßsful Institution, apply at the Offices, or at uy Agenoy throughout the Colonies. WILLLIAM T J. BELL, ""** 'Sooretarjr. M ° —— E Vi £6 000 T0 llENI) in suma of £10°flnd up ' wards, on good securities, at lowest ounent rates. W. & J. FRATER, Land Agents, Queen-street. ILITIA SUITS.-Samuel Coombes & ~. n Co A ?ave 'ust opened 330 Boys' Militia "^ *»** T\/pUTIA SUITS.-Samuel Cootubea & £°,-iJ^ ye, ju?,t J °pSlea m Boy»' Militia S^i!^|ir y mothor *°«"i -VTOTiCE OF KEUO VALTIMrs MoJlor, w^itlf Nnw ({« m Q«ieoa Chariotto'a



! ! TO ANANAS!! ■OINBS ! ! THE S.S. JANET NICOLL I 3ubsldlsod by Govornmont to run to tho South Sea Islands) 3 ejected to arrivo In Auoklond on or about tho 27th APIUL, and thoroaftot at rogular intorvalo, With a Miecollanooua Cargo of QRANGES, "DANANAS, /^OCOANUTS, &o. As tha Fruit will bo Cased at Uio Mauds (Uio trip only occupying about six d«ye), pur chusorß can v«ly on roooiviiiß the Biinio in FIRST-CLASS OKUEU AND CONDITION And at stated intorvals, So that a Regular Supply will bo guaranteed. r( II A R L E S TDAGLEY, WHOLESALE FRUITERER, CUSTOMS-STREET AND PAPNELIi RISE N B —Country Ordors lor tho Auckland Dis trict, accompanied by romittanoo. promptly attended to. TJIPORTADT TO ALL. We aro now showing our NEW WINTER DRAPEIiY AND CLOTHING, Consisting of DRESS GOODS, Plain and Fanoy BLACK and COLOURED CA3HMKRES BLACK and COLOURED VELVETEENS FLANNELS, BLANKETS RUGS, SHAWLS, &c. MEN'S TWEED SUITS MEN'S TROUSERS and TROUSERS and VESTS MEN'S MOLESKIN TROUSERS, &O. BOYS' and YOUTHS' CLOTHING in Grcai ■ Variety. Tho above Goods aro all Bought Voryl Cheat for Cash, and will bo SOLD VERY CHEAP FOR CASH. ' HANNKEN BROS., DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, &c, 300 and 302, Uiter Queen-street (Corner of Aloxandra-Btroet). XTOTICE TO MEMBEBS OF BANDS jj{ OF HOPE. All members taking part in tho Rehearsal! for annual gathering are requested to attend i special practice on MONDAY Evening, at th( si James's Hall, Wellinifton-streot at 7.30., tt prepare for Mr Capper's farewell mooting. . S. FRITH, Conductor. W. J. MACDERMOTT, Sec. "VTOTICE.— James Willotts iviahes to in J3( form his Customers that ho is compellec to raise iho price of their Milk to 5d per Quar duviog the winter montha from May Ist, owin( to tho scarcity of supply. m lIE LATEST WALTZ THK NEW AND POPUL&R "BEHTKAND WALTZ" MAY BE OBTAINED AT EADY'S AND MEAHS'3 MU3IC WAREHOUSES, QUBKN-STRKET. m v k k i a h baths ...?-. UPPER. QUBBN-STKBBT, ~.-,: ...... ..-.. «t.ui».4ii«:u uoiuuiianmont »» Opoi Daily (rom 0 a.m. to 0 p.m., and on Thursday and Saturday:) from 0 a.m. to !) p.m. These B'ltliß aro highly recommended by th< moslcal faculty. Baths for Ladiks on Tuesdays and Tihjrs days, from 0 a.ni. to 3 p.m., i udor chargo of iv experienced lady attendant. F. J. FAHRELL, Secretary. 1 PREFER WoLt-a'a ScnNAiTH to Brandl J- or Whisky.—lt is a moro wholesome spirit. XT 0 T I C 1 VOLLBRACHT'S NEW ZEALAND TO BACCO GROWING, CURING, AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY. IMPORTANT TO FARMERS AND GROWERS. Tho Uino for tho Distribution of Tobacco Socc is Extended for Ono Month from this date Instructions and all Varieties of Sood Frei as beforo. Samples of tho Leaf from all districts are Ex hlbited in our olllco, and willingly shown to the Public AUGUST VOLLHRACHT, Managing Director. CORNISH GROCERY STORE (Next Mr A. Wood, Butcher), WELLINGTON-STREET. J. JENKIN Intimates to his numerous cus tomers and the inhabitants of City West that he has ontered Into his Now Shop, and is abla to supply tho wants of the surrounding district on tho most liberal torms. Families Waited on for Orders. OLFE'S SCHNAPPS is particularly /roe from fusil oil, as it is well aged beforo being bottled. PERSONAL.— Will Mr Boavon ploaso fotch his box immediately from Mrs Beaumont's, Cook-street, and oblige, MILITIA SUlTS.—Samuel Coombea & Co. have just openod 350 Boys' Militia Suits. 3s lid to 7s lid. Evory mother should now have her Boy in Uniform. ,_ HYAUIASON. DURHAM" ---• STREET. AUCKLAND.-Koys Fitted to Patent and othor Locks, on tho shortest notice. Practical Mon sent to Pick Locks and Open Safes at moderate charges. Lawn Mowers Ground and Repaired. CHEAP AND GOOD CUTLERY.— Ivory and Bono Handled Table and Dossort Knlvos. selling at vory low prices.—Thomas Samuel, 108, Queonstroot. ILLUSTRATED and Plain Business and Address Cards Engraved on Plate and Printed at tho Star Offlon. MILITIA SUlTS.—Samuel Coombes & Co. have just opened 350 Boys' Militia Suits, 3s lid to 7s lid. Every ruothnr should now nave hor Poy in Uniform. |\y| ILITIA SUlTS.—Samuel Coomboa & Lid. Co. have just opened 360 Boys' Militia Suits, 8s lid to 7s lid. Every mother should now have hor Boy in Uniform. CH AS. WILL lAMS ON, Land, House, and Estate Agont, High stroot (near Shortland-streot), has always for ualo and to lot largo and small houses in tho City, suburbs, and country districts; also farms, improvod and unimprovod. in various parts of the provlnco. Several eligible building allot ments for Bale in tho City. 800 lists in Evening BTAiinnd "Herald." Chief Pest-offlco, Auckland. Maim wim Uumn as undkb- Taia Day, For Nopiei'. Wellington, aad Eoulhern ports, por Hinetnoa, at 5 p.m. Monday, 27th lnst, For Sauioa and Friondly Islands, per Myrtle, at 0 a.m. For Thamtß, por Kotoraahana, at 10.30 n m. For Caromandel, purCoromandel,at 11,30 a.m. For Waitara end tiouthorn ports, per Gairloch orOretl, at 1 p.m. For Russell and Kawakavra, per Manaponri, at 4 p.m. For Tauranga, Itotorui, and Opotlkl, per Wellington, at 6 p.m. For Russoli. Kakakawa, Herd's Point, Wanga roa and Mongonui. per Clanumnn. at 6 p.m. For Whitianirl, Upper Mill, and Talrua, por Gli nolg, at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Tuesday. 28th lnst. For Wolwora, Kawau, Omaha, and Matakana, por Rose Casey, at 10 a.m. For Thames, per Rotomahona, at 11.30 a.m. For Gisborne, Napier, and Southern Ports, per Suva, at lp.m. Per B.s. Zeolandla as follows !— For Navigator Islands. Sandwloh Islands. United States of America, Canada, British Columbia, Central and South America, and British and Foreign West Indies, at 1 p.m For United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. Money orders, registered lettera and news papers, at 11.30 a,m, Lato letters, bearing an extra fee of six pence In addition to the postage, will be rooelvod by tha Mali Agent on board tho Iteamer up to the time of Balling. This mall will be due In London on Satur day, June S, 1880 Wednesday, 29th In at. For Taranaki and Southern Ports, per Hawea, Notb.— AKcooivinjrßoxlias Loon established it Messrs Porter's Store, Richmond Road, and ivill be cleared dally at 11,30 a.m.. s. b. bks. met po«ia#kr



The R.M. at Christehurch has decided iv favour of the actors in a dispute with tho managers of the " Silver King " Company, and has ruled that they should receive pay for v night on which no performance took place Cheapest books and stationery in New Zealand to be had at H. White's, stationer, next to Banfcol New Zealand, <Jueen-Btreet,-[4»YTi '



\V. H. Fenton and Co. have just received ex Coptic, a very superior selection of water proof coats in various shapes and colourings al! guaranteed sewn seams and edges, and a choice assortment of new wintcrhosiery, gloves Blurts pajamaha, braces, travelling baca etc eta! W.H.R ancl Co. ilcalro to draw mention to a Bpeciul novelty, beinK a combination of umVuvHii walking-sUck, and pipo. W. H. Fenton and Co liat and cap manulacturers, and gentlomeu'B morcets, 78, Queon-atreotj-tAcvT.) BOUUVU1!)l1 H