SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

HIGH WATER.

Auo__AH_-Thisaftornoon, 1.31; to-morrow % rANUB;fu 7HKADS-This afternoon. 4.14; to morrow morning. 4,07. . Kaipara HKAOs-Thia ovoning, 5.11! to-mor row morning, 5.57.

SUNSET.-This evening, 6.19. HUNRIBE.—To-morrow morning, 6.38. MOON'fl AGE.-FUII Moon, 29th, 5.52 p.m.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY.

Clansman, s.s., Farqnhar. from Whangarei Arawata. s.s., Cromarty, from * iji Stanley, brigantlno, from Lyttelton Ruby, schooner, Bassett, from Lyttelton Notero, barque, Smith, from Lyttelton

DEPARTURES.

TO-DAY.

To Anau, s.s., McGco, for the South

IMPORTS.

Por Notero: 25 saoka onions, 500 sacks Canter bury potatoes. SCO Backs bran, 150 saoka rye grass, 50 sacks cocksfoot. 1.100 encka wheat, 1,500 Sacks short potato oats, 7<9 sacks Danish oats, 281 sacks Tartar oats 50 sacks beans, 20 tons Woods's flour.—G. S. Jakins.

Per Te Anau: GO sacks boncdtist, 80 tacks onions.—G. S. Jakins.

Por Taupo: 103 sacks ryegrass.—G. S. Jakins.

Pc r Arawata—2.3Co bunohos bananas, 180 sacks cocoanuts, S3 costß fruit, 39 sacks peanuts. 95 hides, 3 bales Bkins, 58 cases orangoa, 83 bagß tobacco, 2,100 bagß sngar and sundries.

EXPORTS.

Per To Anau, for Molhourno—l2J hldc-a, 30 sacks grass seed. 31 sacks cocoanuts. For tho South; 100 mats eugar, 200 cases oranges, oo coils rope, 72 sacks oystors and sundries.

The s.s. Triumph arrlvod at Sydney from this part on Tuesday last.

Captain Cleverloy has boon appointed mnstor of the new echooner Glcncairn, now loading for Fiji.

The schooner Marion left Wellington for Kal para yesterday.

" The schooner Minnie Hare arrived at Lovnka fromAuokland on April 3, and loft for Taviuni four days later.

Tho tonnngo loading at London on Feb. 20 for Australia and New Zoaland amounted to 13,071 tons.

The s.B. Clansman arrived from Whanßarei this morning with the following passengers:— Mr and Mra MoDonald, Mr and Mrs Langstonc, Messrs Dickson, Potter, Carter, Dadley, Cole, Dovlin, McLean, Teesdale.and Constablo Hogg.

The Austrian man-of-war Salda, which ia to visit this port shortly, arrived at Sydney from Melbourne on tho 9th Instant.

Tho Auckland schoonor Midgo arrived at Sydney last week from Rotumah and tho Gilbert Group. Sho reported that affairs at these islands were quiet.

The brlgnntine Myrtle cleared at the Customs t"lis nf ternoontorSamoannd Vavau with general oirgo and tho following passengers:—Miss PuschoJl, Mossrs McCutcheon, W. Bradley, and A. B. Pritohard. She will sail on Friday or Saturday next.

The throe-masted schooner recently reported ashore on tho Elizabeth Reef is a vessel of 250 or 300 tons, and thero is little doubt that she is Che Alma, which was lost there somo timo ago. her crew being saved.

The barque Glenlora complotcd loading for London to-day, and was cloarcd at the Customs 11to in tliu afternoon. A list comprising nearly the whole of hor cargo was published in a recent luuo of tho Star.

The s.B. lona. which left for Mercury Bay and Tairua on Tuesday last, was to go from the Utter port to Taurouga. and return to Tairua with a lot of natives. Sho may be expected brck here this ovening.

The German corvette Stooh, which has been flagship ot the German fleet in the China seas lor two years, and has been lately ro-commis s.oned for the Australian station, arrived at Sydney on Saturday, the 11th. Sho is there to await tho ar-ival of the Gorman men-of-war Hyreno and Marie, which are to be docked, tho litter having beon ashore at one of the islands off New Guinea.

The ship Crusader, whloh left London for this P3rt on March, brings tho following passen gers :—First saloon: Messrs J. C. MaEawaring, rfenry Thurley, Mr and Mrs Capperton and iiuiily. Second saloon: Messrs S. L. Sandi jusn, Herbert King, J. P. Mort, J. M. Cross. Janet McNicol, Alexander MoNicol, Harold York, and Daniel McNicol. Third cabin: Mrs Ingham and family, Messrs Arthur Freeman sad Wm. Morrison.

Tho s,s. To Anau left for Southern ports early this afternoon with the following passengers :— For Gisborne: Messrs Jones, J. Gould. Wallace, Armour, Garrett, Meedamos Armour, Wallaco, and West. For Napier: Miss Johnston, Mr and Mrs Hume and 3 children, Mr and Mrs Garrett and child, Mr and Mrs Proctor and family, Messrs Clifford, Witt, Good, Wallace, Harris, Duncan, Jones, Rngel. For Wellington: Miss Wallace, Mr and Mrs N. McLean, Mr and Mrs M. McLean. For Melbourne: Miss J. Kdwardß, Mrs Warren, Mr and Mrs Mason and child, Mr and Mrs Dallen and son, Miss Birmingham, Mr G. Elliott.

Tho arrival of tho cutter Rose at Levuka from Samoa, on March 31, brought intelligence o'tho wreck of two English vessels that were 1 lading guano at tho Phcenix Group In a heavy westerly gale experienced there on the Cth of January—tho barque Lorenzo, of 1,100 tons, ■belonging to Hull, being wrecked on Sydney Island, and the barque Howard D. Troop, ot 1,600 tons, of St. John's. N.B, on Canton, or Mary Island, situated about 100 miles to the n _ruiward in the same group. With tho barque Lorenzo everything was lost, the crew reaching tie shore, with great difficulty Tho crew of the Howard D. Troop succeeded in saving the greater part of tho ship's stores. Fortunately the Fongoloa called at tba islands, and their crews were taken on to Samoa, and the Howat d D. Troop's men came on to this port in the Koto, leaving again for Suva on Thursday last. The vessels, we understand, were parUally in sured.

THE ARAWATA.

The s.s. Arawata arrived to-day at 7 a.m. She sailed from Levuka at 6.30 a.m. on the 16ih in stant, arrived at Suva at 11 a.m., taking her departure from latter port at 3.30 p.m. on the ].Bta instant, passed Mount Washington at 9 p.m. same day, Mokau Ilinau light abeam at a. 10 p.m. on the 22nd, arriving alongside wharf as above. Had light, variable winds and fine weather throughout the passage. The Arawata was delayed by a slight accident to her ma chinery, which prevented hor going full speed after passing Mokau Hinau. Passengers (aa loon) for Auckland:—Mrs Headdy and two c'uldren, Mrs Anßdell, Mrs Brayshaw, Messrs W. Bentley, Findlajson, H. C. Thompson, W. H. Hacking, Ingold, Dettman (for Sydney), and 23 steerage. We aro Indebted to Mr Robt, Guy, parser, for press parcels, reports, etc.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVALS. Oroti, 5.8., Robertson, from Taranaki Hcrald.s..., Savory, from Greymouth Lalla Rookh, s.s., Campbell, from Waltara

DEPARTURES.

Rowena, s.s., Norbury. for Hokianga Gairlooh, s.s,, MoArthnr, for Taranaki and Wai

tara Oretl. s.s.. Robertson, for Taranaki and Mob

gonui Hannah Mokau. s.s , Windsor, for Raglan and Kawhla Lalla Rookh, s.s., Campbell, for Waltara

The s.s. Oreti arrived from Now Plymouth yesterday, with 42 head of oattle, 7 hor.es, 11 hides, 63 sacks seed, and 12 kegs butter. Pas- Bengers: Messrs Carnall, Nichols, Lash, Oxen ham. Butler (2), Miss Irelond, and Mrs Butler. She left again at 6 o'olock laet night for Tar anaki and Wanganul, with a full general cargo and the following passengers: Miases Ryan, Cropip~ Vcsdames Jones, Cam, Carr and child. --_farre_B. Graham, Mesars Smith, Jones, Holt, Boylan, Farrell. Townsend, Lepper, Shaw. Swift. Ha? com, and Knowles. The Northern Co.'s s.s. Gairloch left for Tara naki and Waltara lost night, with 101 bdls. stoves, 10 drums oil, 6 coseß castor oil, 16 house doorß, 16 coils wire. 30 cases oranges. 10 pkgs. woodwork, 10 oases starch, 20 cases kerosine, 19 cases currants, 3 hhds. glassware, 18 casesi drapery, 13 tons machinery, 3 cases iron, and 188 eases and pkgs. sundries. The s.B. Hannah Mokau left for Raglan and Kawhla late lost night, with .6 sacks seed, 32 ha<s flour. 25 coils wire. 20 sheets iron. 10 cases bis ouita, 17 boxes soap, 30 mats sugar, 18 cases spirits, and 118 cases and packages. The s.s. Rowena left for Hokianga yesterday, with 153 canes and pkgs. sundries. The s.s. Lalla Rookh arrived from Wsitara thla morning, with 20 head Cattle and 120 sheep. She left again for Waltara at 3 o'olock. The S.B. Herald arrived from Greymouth thlsi morning with a cargo of coal.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Melhourne, April _2.-saUed, this after noon: Wairarapa, for _he Bluff.

Port Chalmers, yeaterday.—Sailed: Mana pouri, tor tbe North, fassongers for Auok land: MesdamosS Clayton and o oMldron.and MoLevie, Messrs Waltara, Genera, Skok, Red ford, Tait, Way. Seardon.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

MAIM WILIi Olobb a&' xjndkb— THlfif »A_. For Taurunga, and Opofli^h P«r Clansman, at S p.m. For BarotODga and Tahiti, ,ncr 1, at 5 p.m. Friday, 2fth >Bt- for Thames, per Rotomahana, at 8.30 am. For Samoa and Friendly Island ». Per Myrtle, at For Cowea and Coromandel, pa ' Coromandel, at 1.30 p.m. , . - Wellington and Southcra pos, t3> P°r Ar»- Fl*. *a, at 3 p.m. —, .. . wftv --vmouth, via Manukau, per*, ueraid, at &18 p.m. Heads, Parua, WaJpn, Whan fro* wnang-. and Mangapal, per Mat gregor gaiei. Kaino, - o.m. r. V. altakl, at t. ' .rpriae, at 5.30 p.HJ. ForTha-reMierßnv. . 2 5th_nst. For Tryphena, POrt .-itzx. Fr^^aSfAoii'g^ a-^ranga, *, Fo^s_St«Kowm_i^*.^.^ta V » FM W_-wera, Te Kapa, anrt Walworth, per , Hose Casey, at 11 a.m. . For Suva, por Olencairn, at 11 a.urt. I Tdksday, 28th inst. , Per s.B. Zealandia as follows i— ._..., _•» For Navigator Islands, Sandwich Manjf* i United States ot America, Canada, British cKbta. Central and South Arneriea, and . British arid Foreign West Indies, ait J p>m For United Kingdom ssd Continent of Europe, at 1 p.m. .__.__. . Money orders, registered letters ana news- , papers, at 11.30 a.m. . ' , Late letters, bearing an extra fee of six cenoe In addition to the postage, wffl be I received by the Mall Agent on beard the • iteamer up to the time of sailing, This mail will be due In London on Satur day, Juno 5,1880. k Hots.—A Retialvi-i. Box has been established ■at Messrs Porter's -tore, Biohmond Road, and ■will he oleared daily at 11.30 a.m. I S, B. BISS, Chief PoatoiMtet ■ BUrtPMi-ofli'" •"-w-"'

Meetings, Entertainments. Etc.

April 23,1885. Opora Houso-" Tho Busybody," Br.m, Choral Hall-Society of Arts Exhibition. Circus—Reclamation, 8 p.m. Prince of Wules Lodge. Masonio Hall, 7,30 p.m. Theatre Royal—Gospel Temperance Mission, 7.30 p.m. V.M.C.A. Rooms—Evangelistic Sorvico. 7,30 p.m. Socretarios of Junior Football Clubs, United Service Hotel, 8 p.m.

Births.

MACKIK.—On April 23, the wife of Aloxandor J. Mnckieof a son. SATOW.—On April 22. tho wife of David Satow, Jervois Road, Ponsonby, Auckland, of a daughter.

WinTK.—On April 22, at hor residonoo, Hnr gravestreot, College Hill, tlie wife of Richard white ot a Bon.

Deaths.

BRACELIN.—On Aptil 22, James Bracolin; aged 10 yearß. The funeral will lcavo his late rosidenco, White-street, off Upper Quoen street, to-mor row (Friday), at 4 p.m. Friondß aro respect fully invited to attend. HANKIN.—On April 22. at Franklin Road, Edward Han kin. journalist; nged 56 yoars. The funeral will leavo tho residence of Mr Cunningham, foot of Franklin Road, to morrow afternoon, at 3 o'clock.

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

For the came that lacks assistance, For the wrong that noedi rosistanco, For tho future in the distance, And the good that we can do.

THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 1885.

The colonists of Fiji have taken up with enthusiasm the proj.ct of annexation to New Zealand. A public meeting in support of the movement was held at Levuka on the 28th of March. Speak ing of this event, the Fiji "Times" says : —" The public meeting held in the hall of the Mechanics' Institute on Saturday evening, with the object of taking steps to procure the incorpora tion of Fiji with New Zealand, was the largest and most enthusiastic that has taken place in the town since the ap pointment of the delegates to the Federal Convention with a somewhat similar object two years ago. Perfect unanimity prevailed throughout, and the frequent hearty bursts of applause which greeted telling passages in the addresses proved how thoroughly one and all were in accord as to the de sirability of the proposed union." Resolutions were carried favourable to forwarding a petition for annexation to the New Zealand Legislature, and an influential committee was appointed to obtain signatures. The local news papers are unanimously in favour of the proposed step, and there seems, in fact, a rare unity of sentiment about the wisdom of changing the political rela tions of the young colony. This feel ing is no doubt attributable, in very large measure, to the depression which prevails throughout the group. Busi ness stringency invariably produces dis content with the Government, and in Fiji there is an impression, which is only partially true, that bad govern ment is the prime cause of all their misfortunes. Theabnormally low price of sugar affords a more tangible explan ation ot the blight that has fallen upon all the tropical colonies. It is, how ever, true that a cheese - paring, lack-enterprise, purely official adminis tration hangs like a millstone around the necks of the settlers. There is a total absence of enterprising, colonising spirit in the government of a Crown colony of severe type. The most moderate and necessary requests are refused, and the chief notion of Government is the collection of taxes, the administration of criminal law and postal services, and the management of the natives. What the Fiji settlers hope to obtain from union with New Zealand is the injection of a strong infusion of colonising energy. Nor will they be disappointed if t£e Legis lature oi New Zealand and the Crown see their way to granting their request. A New Zealand administration could never emulate the sluggishness of Downing-street. Although there are many obvious difficulties in the way, the scheme is by no means impracticable. If New Zealand desires a tropical appendage, none is so well situated geographically, or so well developed constitutionally airl financially, as Fiji. The colony is self-supporting, and might be made self-governing in local matters. The administration could, therefore, be easily arranged. Our legislature has, however, ample employment in providing for the in ternal development of this large colony, and the question of undertaking the responsibility of administering another country with numerous aboriginal and small European population would re quire very careful consideration before the New Zealand Legislature would be warranted in assenting to the prayer of the Fijian settlers.

The Impending War.

Latest despatches from London show the war clouds to bo again closing in very o <_ly. The fuller account given by Sir ■ *_. ' f' ,imstl°n °* "ie rocent ongngomont, _,' • "deh confirm in overy way hi pre ° irt, that tho attack on the vioue WjjK , . , , _, ._ _ _ _ ._,_ s completely unprovoked—the Afghan* w*< . p _ _ _. _-_~_«_- 'aving made ro advance after Afghant_<Wpß^ - waß arrived at between the understandtsv .t _ let t h e position remain England andKn-*-, . proceededi It unaltered whUe F»v < iat general Komaroff being now admitted«.. te __._ _. was fully aware ofw* that he mode the understanding, it the shadow instructions K.^n officials i Lave SSI_. such Rteat pains

mined to fight for the position taken up by hor troops, and all her pacific messages and plausible explanations, if not intended to gain timo, havo been designed with tho hope of obtaining all that sho wants by fraud without a recourse to force. Present indications are that Britain is not at all disposed to yield the point in dispute without an appoal to tho sword. Tho martini spirit of tho people Is thoroughly aroused, and the temper of tho Ministry , may be inferred from tho fact that thoy have asked tho House of Commons for a war voto of cloven millions sterling. Wo have no doubt Parliament will unanimously givo tho monoy required, and will even urgo o'i tho Cabinot to spare no effort for tho maintenance of tho national interests and honour. Tho British ulti matum to Russia, demanding tho Czar's Government to disavow tho action of General Komaroff ia reported to havo beon repeated. Somo ultra-Jingoes may hold that tho first demand ought to havo been firmly insisted upo:i,atidwardoclaredat onco; butthomost onlightoned Government on earth can claim that sho hns ?et an e.-atoplo of moderation in doaling with international disputes, and has not. resorted to tho barbarous method of arbitrament in haste or anger. Should war now eventuate, Britain will enter it with clean hands and a pure heart; so may tho result provo.that "ho is twice armed who hath his minrrol just," and may each British soldier, liko Sir Galahad, feel that "his strength is as tho strength of ton," becauso ho lights tho couso of liberty, humanity, and civilisation, against bar barism, despotism, and darkness.

The Egyptian Situation.

For somo timo there have keen rumours of a Franco-Russian alliance, and with thoso

ringing in our oars it is not roassuring to hear that Franco is trying to raise a fuss in Egypt over a paltry quarrel about tho suppression of a newspaper. Tho "ultimatum" of tho French Government de manding that tho paper should bo ro licensed has beon rejected by Nubar Pasha, who is supported in his attitude by Turkey and England. Tho nowspapor in question "Lo Bosphoro Egyption" is tho organ of tho Froncn bondholders, who sub sidise it in order to express views in .opposition to tho financial policy of Groat Britain; and it was for somo too-outspoken criticisms that its sup pression was ordered. Trilling though tho incident is, it could easily be magnified into a casus belli should Franco think Britain's other troubles would givo an oponitig for regaining hor lost influence in Egypt. The sudden termination of tho Chinese campaign is bolieved to havo something to do with French designs in Egypt or Syria. Mean while all tho British troops nro boing withdrawn from Suakim, and Lord Wolseley is called back to England. His recall is not of tho nature of a degra dation for tho failure of tho Khartoum Re lief Expedition, nor is ■ it, wo opino, alto gether resorted to out of solicitude for tho "only eye" of England's "only Genoral," tho sight of which was suffering from tho climato ; but it will probably bo found to bo connected with the impending Russian war. Tho Indian troops ore to remain at Suakim, and Mr Gladstone distinctly declares that the present alteration of plans is only temporary, and in no way uffocta tho general policy of his Government in tho boudan.

England's Allies.

At a timo whon England scorns encom passed by warlike troubles, and when hor army and navy aro in a condition which is strongly condomnod by friendly critics, it is pleasant to know that sho will not want for allios, or for mercenaries, if need bo, to tight on her side. Turkey, it appears, will remain neutral in tho Afghan disputo, lest hor vory existonco should bo threatened, and there are symptoms that tho Ameor is as hostile to Britain as ho professes to bo to Russia, so that in tho ovent of war boing declared, Britain may find horself compolled to fight tho Afghans as well as tho Rus sians. Sho may not require any-aid in tho carrying out of tho campaign, but if she should, an Italian alliance can be roliod upon. Signor Luzatti, ono of tho loading Italian statesmen, wrote as follows when tho nows of tho fall of Khartoum was recoived :— " Confronted by events so gravo and so un expected— events which may increase in gravity from day to day—it ia well that Britain should know that in tho Mediter ranean, as in the Red Sea, sho may count on the frank and loyal friendship of a froe nation which has long reverenced her as an unmatched model of civilisation, of political liberty, of tho forco which can mould to the highest development tho barbarouß races of tho world. In the sombre hour when othor States can mock tho lion at bay or look on with cynical indifference, let Britain be assurod that sho can placo all rolianco on the Italian nation, which wishes well to her arms, and predicts hor triumph ant success." Thoso generous sentiments, so eloquently expressed, prove thatEnglandcan rely upon the active friendship of an onlight ened Power, with many bravo soldiers, and a powerful fleet embracing tho largest iron clads afloat. In addition to contingents from hor colonies, England would also find splendid recruiting grounds in some parts of Europo. After tho Khartoum disaster, a Madrid newspaper having stated that Britain wished to employ Spanish officers and mon in tbe Soudan, the British Legation was besieged for a timo by a crowd of offi cers, most of whom had servod undor Hon Carlos, who woro clamorous for employ ment. A largo number of mon also camo forward. One of tho Carlist officers offered to raise a forco of 4,000 men instantly if tho British Government would accopt thorn. Among the many ploasing incidonts which havo boon evoked by Gordon's fato, few aro more gratifying than tho warm offor of Italian aid, and tho above testimony to tho readiness of Spaniards to enlist undor tho banner of England, and holp to fight her battles.

'Mr E. Hankins, a journalist well-known in Wellington and the South, died at his residence, Franklin Road, last evening, of paralysis. Ho was formerly on tho staff of \ "The West Coast Times," and more 1 latterly was Parliamentary reporter for tho i "New Zealand Times." He leaves a wife and threo children. The Arawata's cargo included upwards of r 3,000 bunches of bananas, one-third of which is for Southern ports, and also 2,400 bags of sugar for tho Now Zealand ; Sugar Company's Works here. A rumour was current in town to-day that England had declared war against Russia, and that tho Collector of Customs . had been warned of the same by telegraph. , The whole affair, however, proved to bo a pure canard, probably having been given birth to by some disordered imagination. A man named Georgo Beaumont, em ployed by Mr Langley, butcher, of Hobson street, broke his leg yesterday. Ho was standing on a plank supported by two step ladders, and was engaged cleaning tho front of his master's shop, when the plank slipped nnd he was precipitated to the footpath. Our Thames correspondent tolegraphs to day :—Mr W. Fraser, M.H.R , has received a letter from tho Minister for Public Works, intimating that tenders will bo called for tho Kopu-Hikutara soction of tho railway on his return to Wellington, and if nothing prevents funds being available, the work will be proceeded with. Mr Maxwell has gone to New Plymouth en route for Wellington. A Wellington telegram received to-day states that Mr Harris, tho local railway station-master, is to be transferred lo Auck land, and loaves for his new post next woek. One of the "devil's own" ytho appeared at the Resident Magistrate's Court to-day occupied a rather anomalous position. He was instructed to appear for plaintiff this morning, and just before entering the Court received a note from defendant containing the request that he would represent him in his absence. Another street row occurred near the Queen-Btroet Wharf yesterday afternoon. Two men, one of whom is called Doylr, •wore fighting, when a great crowd congre gated and had commenced taking part in the struggle, when several policemen ap peared on the scene at an ear'y stage. Previous to this, however, one or two non combatants had received blows, which should provo to them that it is unadvisablo to mix up in such rows in future. Another tramway accident happened in Wellesley-street last ovoning. One of tho long cars was coming down the street, when the brakes, although hard down, would not catch, and the oar skidded down to the foot of the street, where it ran off the lino. The only passengers were a woman and a little girl, and fortunately they were not hurt. In this instance, there is no reason to believe that the brakes were tampered with. Intelligence is to hand from Whangaroa that a heavy fresh has occurred there. Up- ' wards of 5,000 logs, equal to 5,000,000 feet j of timber, have Been brought down to the mills. There has also been a heavy fresh at Mougonui, J

Mr T. W, So.man reports having received nominations to fill the vacancies occurring on the Northooto Road Board, at tho I'o.t ofllco, Northcoto, on Wednesday last, when Messrs John Johnston, Alexander Murray McCallum, Thomas Osborne, Frank Row linson, and Matthew Slattory woro nomin ated, and as only throo vacancies occur, a Eoll will bo takon at Mr land's _ residence, otwecn I) a.m. and (i p.m, on Friday.

Mr W. \V. Crawford leaves for Walkato on Monday to erect a contrifugal butter making plant in the Hamilton Cheese Factory, tho American chcoso-mnking machinery in which was erected by him two yoars ago. This industry continues to forgo ahead, tho most successful factories boing thoso with tho American automatic system of machinery, reducing labour to n mini mum .

A cable message from Sydney states that tho thirty-sixth annual mooting of tho Aus tralian Mutual Provident Society was held yesterday afternoon. Tho now business acquired during tho past year comprised 8,800 policies, assuring £2,002,402. _ The now premium income amounts to £100,301. The accumulated funds of the Socioty aro £5,3.1,460, and tho total annual income £1,07-1,952. Tho report of tho actuary on tho first annual division of profits yhoua a cash surplus for tho year of £-111,817, of which £202,434 will bo divided amongst policy-holders. It is intended in future that bonuses will become available after tho policies havo endured two years, and surrender values will bo. paid aftor a similar period has elapsed.

Tho anniversary Baptist Church soiree at Otahuhu was hold on Tuesday ovoniiig in tho Public Hall. About 150 porsous partook of tea. The hall was appropriately decorated for tho occasion, and everything went off with eclat. Mr Thomas Spurgoon presided, nnd dolivorcd a characteristic address.

Addresses wore nlso delivered by Roys. John Mucky, J- Stoolo, Taylor, Miller, Driver, and Mr Shaldors. Tho speechos were intervened by hymns and musical selections by tho choir. Votes of thanks and tho Boncdiclion closod tho proceedings.

After tho presentation of tho Auckland Amateur Athlotic Club priites last night, a uumborof members of that body adjourned to tho Masonic Hotel, whoro the health of Mr James Stewart, tho winner of tho 10 ---milo Bicycle Championship, anil of tho othor competitors,was drunk. Wo aro glad to loam from tho Hon. Troasnror, Mr Jus Sibbin, that tho Club has a credit bulatico of £50 from tho recent carnival.

Mr Seaman, as Returning Officer, reports having recoived nt Dairy Flat schoolroom, on Wednesday, 22nd inst., tho nominations of Moßsrs O. \V. F. Bluchor, Erui Bond, .l.tmos Dodd, Timothy Foley, James Inglif, and David Lochead, as candidates to fill tho 3 vacnncios occurring in tho Pukoatua Road Board, and that a poll will bo takoti at tho samo place on Friday, May Ist, 18S5.

Tho practical outconio of Mr S. Cappor's temporanco address in tho Theatre Royal last niglit was that 29 persons took tho plodgo. His second address will be de livered to-night, tho subjoct boing " Local Option," Tho Executive havo decided upon extending the mission, and arrange monts havo thoroforo beon mado for Dublie mßOtings on Friday, Saturday, and Monday nights. Mr Cappor loaves Auck land by the out going mail stcamor noxt week. An odd coincidonco in connoction with his address of last night was that an instanco which he related of a violent death from oxcessivo drinking in almost every dotail answers to tho fatal accident which occurred lust night at the Clarendon Hotel.

It has beon definitely arranged that Mr Wybort ltoove antl his London Comedy Co. shall opon their season at tho Opora Houso on tho 7th of May noxt. His company is a strong one, and many of its moinbors aro old favourites. Miss Alico Deorwyn is leading lady, and the other ladies uro Mis Chippondalo (from tho llaymaiket Theatre, London), Miss Constunco Doorwyn, Miss Lily Bryan (who was here with tho Polks), and Miss Russoll. Amongst tho gentlemen wo recognise the names of Mr J. B. Steelo and MrjChas. llolloway. " Lovo or Money" has beon fixed as tho oponing pieco, and it will bo followed by " The Woman in White" and "Impulse," which achiovod such a striking success in London and Mel bourne Tho David Livingstono Lodge, No. 20, of Good Tomplors, held its usual weekly meot ing last evening at tho Temperance Hall, Albort-streot. Threo caudidutc. were in itiated, and tho third degreo was conferred on four candidntos for thut degreo. The question of the Lodge, as a lodgo taking up shares in tho proposed now temporanco papor, " Tho Banner of Freedom," was mooted, but discussion wa& postponed to tho noxt mooting. An informal discussion took placo as to tho advisability of forming a degroo tomplo, ond some dozen mombets of David Livingstono Lodgo signified thoir desire for such tomplo. Tho nomination and olection of ollicers for tho noxt quarter will tako plaeo on \\'cdnosday evoning noxl.

At tho meeting of tho University Sonate at Christchurch yesterday, it was resolved that/tho following bo admitted to tho dogrco of B.A. ,—W. H. Kay, J. G. L, Scott, J. L. Barnicoat, W. (_, McDewcll, P. Kimo, .1. Fitzgerald, H. Wilson, J. J. Hay, J. W. Rowe,l C. Aloxandor, 1). Munro, J. M. Hutchin, 11. Yon Haast, R. Ltimb, H. Inglio, A. Clifford, T. K. Sidoy, H. Cross, ond C, Freeman ; that tho following ho admitted to tho degreo of M.A. : — E. 11. Scarlo, C. E. Harrison, W. P. Evans, R. McNab, A. J. Mayno, R. M. Laing, G. A. Harknoss; that tho following honours had beon gained : — First olass : E. 11. Searlo, Latin and English ; C. E. Harri son, Latin and English; W. P. Evans, mathematics and mathematical physius. Second Class : 11. McNab, mathematics and mathematical physics; It. M. Laing, natural scionco, Third f'lnes : E. H. Soarlo, political scionco ; A I Mayiie, Latin and English ; that tho folio t it-;: ho admitted to tho degroo of Bachelor i»' I.iws:—.l. It, Thornton; that tho soubr scholarships bo.awarded to tho following:—J. J. Hay, mathematics; J. M. Inglis, ox poiimentnl scionco; that tho following bo recorded as having passed in sub jects for B.A. (first section) for tho teachers'examination, or for tho preliminary medical examination :—D. Chnrlewood, .)', H. Bice, T. H. Gill, H. Hopkins, A. W. Tindoll, W. E. Spencor,T. Taylor, R. G. Whitlor, J. R. Don, A, W. Bruco, J. C. Harling, J. AVaddol Smith, A. Grahuin, W. Fitzgerald, F. Malcolm, A. Hendry, L. M. Will, W. Guthbert, J. French, J. A. Asher, W, McAlister, S. C. Owen, E. Pitcaithley, E, Millsom, \\ . Haworth, E. P, Bunny, A. Hairbreod, A. Kitchingham, C. M. Chosmal, M Steele, M. Mills, G. William son, B, Jack, W. Craddock, J. Aitkon, P. Lovi, C. Little, M. A. Coloman, G, A. Cop land, 11. Birelay, M. J. Fraser, and J. Sim monds.

Mr Lennox, bookseller, of Queen-street, has just opened a largo consignment of books procured to tho ordor of Mr G. John stono and Mr Shaw, Among those belong ing to tho termor is a sot of " Blackwood, s Magazine," commencing with tho first volume Mr Shaw's order numbers more than 150 volumos, several of them of great rarity and value. Tho oldost is a largo pig skin-bound tome with clasps, containing two books, viz: "Elucidarius Scriptttarum," printed in black letter at "Nurombcr," by F. Crucsner in 1476; and tho "Epistles of Pope Gregory," with no date, but with printer's device, that of Zanier. It must havo beon printed about tho yonr 1-170. This noble volume which is rubricated throughout, was once in tho old monastic library of Bttxheim. Another early specimen of printing is a volume by Manfred do Stravo, finished on April Bth, 1107, at Venice, iv Roman letter, the initials being by hand. The handsomest portion of Mr Shaw's present collection is an odition de luxo of Hume's History of Englaud in 10 volumes, royal folio, published at London in 1806. Tho_ whole is of hand-mado pajtcr, adorned with numerous copperplate en gravings, and is in as good condition as when issued. Tho original price for the ten volumes was 140 guineaß, There is also a first edition, folio, of Puller's History of the Church, dated 1655, Hawkosworth's odition of Swift's Works, 6 volumes, 1755, and Switt's Letters in 4 volumes, 1768, are othor noteworthy items in Mr Shaw's order. This gentleman has now a very extensive library of old, rare, and expensivo books—in fact, one which is doubtless unique in New Zoaland.

A correspondent who had been out of employment for two months, and who sought for work at the fortifications at North Shore, sends an account of his ox perienco, which is too long for publication. Briefly stated, it amount. to this : Thai, after applying he was put off for a week, and then for two days longer ; then ho was told to purchase tools, although other mon used Government tools. Having raised 12s for these with difficulty, ho started work and continued until the 18th, when ho was paid 4s 6d short, after finding his own tools and paying his fares, which represented a loss to him of 19s Gd as compared with what contractors men were receiving. On remonstrating, he was abruptly cut°short. In conclusion ho says: "Most of the men originally employed wero discharged, and those of tho different contractor, in Auck land wero retained. These circumstances I consider very unjust; the blame on whom I fear, I trmbk to name."

John Browno, of Freeman's Bay, con- j tractor, fllod a petition in bankrupcy to day.

Heavy showers of rain fell at Whan garoa at tho ond of last week, and cauocd a " fresh," which brought down no loss than live thousand logs to the mills. At Mercury, about 100 logs came down about tho same time. Thore wore no " frcabea " either at Mer.ury Bay or Hal para, but it is expoctod that some logs will - bo driven down on Saturday next, _ At a meeting of the Auckland Native Lands Colonisation. Company, held this afternoon, tho resolution passed on tho 2Glh ult. winding up the Company and ftp pointing Mr Franz SclicrlT liquidator was duly confirmed. fthdeK. tor two clotaeiicd cottages in Nolson-strcot were opened by R.M.Fripp. architect, to-day as follows f-E. Roynel), 4'Ofifi • I T-_»/ PO7O . i> iv.+or t'9S .• ' R:°Diokon Json \^ _ vie' om-' _fc& j £_9. jJ. W. Malmbu v, £209; W. Vcrnoy, ! ril-i 1. R Ahlnrfnn f"i->0 . Uno-li Mni_ 1. id -721 A,dorton' Cl,2° ; S ' '. ' _~.,,, ~, j Major Cautloy is stud to havo assured tho | peoplo of 0.-.mam that if Russian cruisers j visited tho port and took away supplies a . receipt should be asked for the goods taken, i and tho Now Zealand Government looked to. to make tho value of onforced purchases . gootl. If this is all that wo havo to fear j from Russian cruisers (says a local pajper) storekeepers and coal merchants will »o I found battling with the waves m ordor to sco who can first roach the cruiser to point out the value of their rospeotive commodi-1 *,le3, Robert John Clark, of Ponsonby, draper, I liled a petition in bankruptcy Into yester day afternoon. A caso of typhoid fever in Ponsonby Ward, and anotW in the South Ward, -^reported to tho Sanitary Inspector y ' *' Tho Auckland Psychical Society, if thoy have poivor to .ond a travelling committeo of inquiry, should lono no time in despatch ing ono to Parackarotu, It soomd that Pitraeknretu is tho proud possessor of a lively ghost. This restless spirit (says the "Advocate") has a strong proclivity for frightening peoplo. It bus boon bestowing its favours rathor freely on a certain wharo, iv which about a dozen mon sloop. It tugs tho blankets oil' tho beds, and when tho torriiiod occupants look up thoy can dis cover nothing hut a whito shadowy figure, with oyos that glaro liko miniature railway lamps. Tho occupants of tho wharo abovc montioned determined the othor night to Itcop tho unearthly visitor out if possible So thoy fastoned tho door itisido with a pad lock and chain. Their precautions woro vain, however, for tho spirit camo as usual that night, and in tho morning tho padlock and chain wero found lying on tho floor. A young man from Turakitut met, on ono of the I'araokaretti roads, tha other night, a figure that ho took to bo it man, and said " Good evening." No sooner had ho attored tho words than tho figure vanished and reappeared fifty yards up tho side of a hill, its oyos glowing with a demoniac glaro. Tho ghost doos not confino its visits to ono particular locality ; ho travols about and scares tho occupants of othor whurcs. Some youths from tho. Upper Tutaenui district, who had boon working in tho neighbourhood of his ghost-ship's haunts, havo returned homo, and declared that thoy

will not go back, as thoy are afraid of tho uncanny visitor. Profoesor Hugo gavo anothor of his in teresting lectures at the Ponsonby Hall last evening. There was n fair attendance. The subject trented was " Physiognomy in Animal and Human Life." Thelocturo was illustrated with paintings and drawings. To-morrow night Professor Hugolocturosin \\'aito's Mt. Eden Hall. Tho agricultural statistics of Victoria show that the area undor wheat was 1,0-0,.-.- acros, against 1,104,..0_ for tho previous year, and tho yiolds woro respec tively 10,143,140 for 1884-5, against 15,570,1245 for 1883-4, tho diflerenco in favour 'of 1883-4 being 5,137,0.9. Tho total extent of land undor tillage in _881-_ was 2,325,118 acres, ov an increase over tho previous year of 101), 105 acros. W. 11. l.enton and Co. have just received, ex Coptic, a very superior .election of water proof routs In various shapes anil colourinKß, nil Kiiarantocd _ewn seams and cityes. mid a choice 118'Oittnentof now winter hosiery, gloves, shirts, pij.inahs, braces. travolllnfj bags. etc.. etc. W.11.K. ond Co. dosiro to draw attontion to a special novelty, buitiK it oomblnation of umbrella, wnlkinK'Btick, and pipe. W. 11. Fontonatul Co., lint and cap manufacturers, timl gentlemen's mercers, 78, Quuen-strect — | auvt.)

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Star Ofllco. this day. Messrs lU-Haiuison & Jackson cold by auc tion toduy, O-roomed house and allotment, Hall Btroot, Onohunna, for £V.\o. l'obeouby antl Parnell properties did not reach reserves.

ViSSSKLS SIGNALLED.

A bai'iiuo and two sclioonora woro slgutillod intiilo i Iriliri late (Ills aftomoon. A nic-stigo from Wnhvura Informs us thai ono of tho latter is tho Stanley, which loft Lyttelton on tho Ititli. Tim other is a topsail schooner, nnd the barque', numbers B.S.M.D. Thoso belong to tho Notero, which loft Lyttelton for this port live iluvs ago.

THE FALL OF KHARTOUM.

An Arn._l.-n Account of tho Evont.

Vien"na, Fob. 24. The Arabian organ "Mubnschir" pub lishes tl.c following information from Dongola :— "It is truo that Khar toum foil through treachery, but Faraz Pasha was not tho only traitor, Ho wan aiiiod and abottod by numorous friends and agents of tho Mahdi, who had been ongagod in a propagandist mission in sido tho town for sovoral days prior to its capturo. Paraz Pasha was on duty at tho wostorn ontranco, just opposite to Otndur man, whore tho Mahdi's camp was situated. Ho was thus ablo to rocoivo all dosortors from tho onomy's ranks, and their members had lately increased owing to tho scarcity of provisions. Thoy wero woll treated in Khartoum, and at thoir own request woro stationed at tho wostorn en trance, whore thoy stood closest to tho bo eioging army, and gavo no ground for com plaint. On Jan. 21 Faraz Pasha re ported to Gonoral Gordon that there was groat distress in tho Mahdi's camp and that desertions would take place by the hundred it only tho fugitives could cross tho White Nile in safoty. Gordon thoro upon ordorod two steamers to cruise about in front of Omdurman during tho night, and to take up all dosortors from the onomy's camp. Tho captains of tho two steamers were, however, bribed by tho Mahdi, and during tho night of the 25th a largo number of tho Mahdi's troops was convoyed to the wostern entrance of Khartoum. At 5 o'clock on the morning of tho 26th Faraz Pasha opened tho gates to thorn, with tho connivance of the fugitives already in the town. Such is tho story of the fall of Khartoum."

SUPREME COURT.-This Day.

CIVIL SESSIONS.

(Beforo His Honor Mr Justice Gillies.) Hudson v. Given and Sons.—His Honor, In summing up yoatorday afternoon. Bald tho parties in this ca.o won Id ha vo heon wise II they could havo arranged their differences and 3avod their monoy, and not only thoir monoy, but the time of the jury. His Honor thon oxamincd tho ovldonco vory oarofully, especially of independ ent witnessos, nnd pointed out slight divorgon cies and apparent contradictions, duo probably to tho fallibility of tho memory after tho lapso of years rather than to any othor cause—The j ary tound a vordict for plaintiff, damages being 'fixed at, C.5. (Ilvforo Hi.Houor Mr Justice Gillies and a Special Jury,) Clarkk v. Clakkk and Son —Thisfftotion was brought to recovor the sum ot £5_9 16-, olaimedby plaintiff for work aud labour done for tho defunilanla. Mr Theo. Cooper ap peared for dofendants, and Mr Forwood, who appeared for Ihe plaintiff, oponed th - caBO, and stated tho nature of tho claim. Tho defendants, Rico Owen Clarke, sonr., and Rico Owen Clarke, junr., wero the proprietors of a brickyard at Hobaonvillo. and tho plaintiff, a ton of tho elder defendant, had been in tho employ of his father and brother, and claimed 12. per diem from December 2, 1870, to October 10 1-82. Tho claim, thoreforo, was for the amount named, with 8 per cont. thereon. He also stated that an agreement was drawn, but not signed, that plaintiff was to bo admitted a partner, and to participate in tbe profits.—His Honor contended that counsel had no case, as it lmd been admitted that plaintiff was a partner. Tho contract was for ono-third of the profits, and it appeared that plaintiff wns working as a partner.—Mr Forwood .argued that a largo amount of tho work was done before tho deed of partnership.-His Honor ■mid plaintiff could not claim for wages without a special agreement, to thnt. effect. Ho could only compel defendants to pay tho third part of the profits on the special contracts; still If coun sel thought wages were due, he might take ovldonco.—Kdwln Latimer Clarko, Charles Ellis, and iDavid Taylor gave evidence.-Mr Cooper thon addressed the Court, and submitted that plaintiff must be non-suited on two grounds, viz., that ho was a partner in tho Urn), that ho had been paid, and his evidence was in consistent.—His Honor said it was quite cl< _r. that plaintiff must be non-suitod on hifl own evidence, costs allowed on the middle scale. C_AK__ v. C__.KKi!.-Cla_in, £200., Mr lor wood, in opnning this c»se for the plaintiff, tarn this action vvaai.n a different.f noting altogctfior, - aad ho hoped the jury would throw mv. .rem ; the minds the evidence in tho pieosding cuse. • Ho then sketched particulars of the present case. Mr Theo. Cooper appeared for defendant, Bvi- j denoe was heard at some length, '

CAPTURE OF AUSTRALIAN BUSHRANGERS.

An Esoitlag Scone -Threo Men Shot Bond,

An inquest was begun on Saturday, 11th atMud „ ee on the bodies of Charles n Stewart, a storekeeper, of Green Swamp, ant j William White, alias Thurston, who doad _ Jt ._,_.._. that> from fa „ it „.i „ <_.„„,_..*•'_ formation received, on attack on Stewart s store, Belinfanto Bridge, was expected, apu Sergeant Burns and Mounted-troopers Day and McKinlay secreted thomsolves on ttm premises. At about half-past eleven *»£. Wf.J___ __SS___? ™>>b°rs-. ca ! e? at S/ e™rfc VfTtn™ » short distance from the store, aml nskotl to be supplied with tobacco. f*y* H* *«* g *&** and after having given them tho tobacco was oboUt P*o ro-closo tho promises, when ThUrstoh presented a pistol at him, and said, "We want you." Sergeant Burns, who was amo( j w _ tll a doublo-barrelled rifle loaded wJth el( . gß calloc i -_ t to the bushrangors to gm . ren( ] or _ Tlmrston immediately accused stowar{ . o[ b _. _ n j nf -- mcr; nn( i s h o t him dend on tho gpot _ Sergeant Burns fil . cdat Thurston,whodroppod immediately, and . rroopor TW at Angol. Angel ran fl bu t D fil . od in with m0 _ G SU ccoss than on tho previous occasion. The bu i. ot po „ e tra.ed tho small of Angel's back, d olean through, and came out at the | owor ex t re mity of tho abdomon. Later details stato:— Angel, tho bushranger, died on Sunday morning in tho Gulgong Hos pital from tho effects of the wounds received during the conflict with the police on &&? »_" > &„«i5 remained conscious to the last, but suflerod tamest «ue.atm^oj^ ft has Coroner's inquiry that Stewart was advised by t ho police to leave tho premises on tho ,__£_,(. 0 f tho bu.hrongors' visit; but ho 10 f usc d, on tho ground that it would appear CO wr.rdly on his part. He was an old minor, and many yoars ago—at the timo of t__ o Lambing Flat Goldfleld rush—camo in contact with the notorious bushrangers, Frank Gardiner, Gilbort, Bon Hull, and othors, and had oscapod without molestation f rom nn y 0 f them. Honco tho reason of hie uo t foaring tho visit of Angol and Thurston

A MYSTERIOUS TRAGEDY IN VICTORIA.

Mrs Bkkcii, widow of Francis Beech, butcher and farmer, who was murdered in Pottavol in tho month of January, 1884, and Frank Howarth, a farm servant to tho deceased, woroarrestodatmidnighton Satur day, 11 th inst., on a chorgo of wilful mv rder, Howarth was arrested on a farm noar Moolap. Ho was In bod with his wife, and refused to open tho door, undor tho belief that an attempt was being mado by black mailers. Superintendent Toohoy even tually got admission, and tho arrest was effected without a struggle. Mrs Beech was arrested in her residonco, Myers-streot. The police discovered £70 in notes and gold, and dopasit receipt. fori'lfiO in his room, Mrs Beech said that the cash was obtainodby tho salo of eggs nnd butter, without tho knowlodgo of bor late husband. Howarth douied having over possessed a re volver. A loaded gun was found in his houso. Ho said it belonged to a neighbour, and had been left there for convenience.

Our cable news yesterday contained tho intimation that at tho trial of accused on tho charge of murder both woro acquitted.

GERMANY AND SAMOA.

(»Y TELEUHAI'II — OVtH CORHESroNPKNT.)

Wellington, this day. Mv Wiiitely Kino has received a private letter from a friend at Hongkong, in which it is stated that a Gorman man of-w. r loft Shanghai last month, its reported destina tion boing Samoa, where, it was rumoured, she should hoist the German flag.

SPORTING NEWS.

Wkllinuton, this day.

Mr Wratt's racehorse iiinomoa, which ar rived horo from Nelson this morning to take part in tho forthcoming race meoting, received a eovoro knocking about on tho passage. It is moro thun likely that sho will not faco the starter.

Special trains will be run on Saturday to convoy visitors to the Polo Club races at Ellersho. The trains leave Auckland at 1.10 p.m. and 2.30.

WASTE LANDS BOARD.

At tho regular meeting of tho above Board to day, a letter was received from tho Goncral Crown Lands Ofiico directing at t ntion to a Gazette notification that all rivers, streams, and tidal Creoles in Rodney County and Parongarenga, Wharauroa, Wairoa, and Wnihou rivers might bo used for tho purposes of the Tim ber Floating Act, 18S4. Tauranoa-Rotorua Railway.—ln reply to tho Board's memo, as to the necessity of withholding lands for the Tauranga- Uotorua Railway, tho Under-Secretary for Crown Lands replied that tho contract with tho Govornmont was still in forco, ond that tho land could not bo dealt with.

. Perpetual Leasing,—Tho same Under- Secretary also wroto stating that a Gazette of tho 2nd inst. notifies that tho Motu block (-isbomo) has been sot apart for perpetual leasing.—lt was suggostod that those lands should bo offered at a rental of 6d an acre.

Thk Chickens,—Mr Thos. Hendorson applied for leave to occupy the islands off Yvhangeri, known ns Tho Chickens, for tho purposes of fishing and procuring firewood. Cheese and Bacon Factory.—ln re ference to tho application for a Cheese and Bacon Factory ot Wnihou, tho authorities of tho General Crown Lands Office write thnt tho land In question was required for rail way purposes.

TABLE TALK.

Trouble bruin with tho Bear.

" Tho Busybody " in tho Opera House tonight, Mr Sheehan's prospects for Tauranga aro considered good.

The Governor has recovered, and pre sided at the Executive Council yesterday.

It is expectod tho Pokeno murderer will bo roprioved.

M. de Harven is back in Dunedin. It is proposed to form a Masonic Lodge at Pukekoho.

How to "do without glasses"—Drink out of a tin mug. There are in Auckland 1,000 stand of arms ready for use.

"Spring" costume—That of the circus clown.

Mrs Leavitt has- reached Dunedin on her lecturing tour of the colony.

Mr J. Stables, formerly a teacher in Auckland, has died at Dunedin.

Slow-breeding mammals, such as horses, oan increase from a single pair to 10,000,000 in forty years,

In a Wellington hotel on a recent Sun day, 380 drinks were sold, seventeen of them to policemon, and two to Justices of tho Peace. Can Auckland bent that ?

The beo can draw twenty times the weigln. of its body. And yot it does not occur to anyone to harness beoa to the tram-cars in Wellesley-streot,

A local poet advertised that he would supply " lines for any occasion." A fisher man sought him soon after, and wanted "a line strong enough to catch a porpoise." Within the past year Kaitangata Coal Company, Otago, have spent 119,000 in opening up new workings, and erecting first-class machinery.

" Youth is the time to serve the Lord," says th_s old hymn. A large majority of those who have passed their youth appear to believe this thoroughly.

The area of the British Empire exceeds that of the Russian Empire by about 200,000 square miles, and it covers nearly one-sixth of the whole land area of the globe. The "Now Zealand Times" advocates the making of a small breakwater at. Opimake, fo as to divert tho trado of .Voimate Plains from Auckland to Welling ton.

Maoris, M.H.R.'s, and madmen are exempt from serving on the militia. Those who cannot get returned to Parliament can easily plead the last-named disqualifica tion.

Mr Wm. Kelly's brewery at Rotorua, which cost £'_00, has started operations. Tourists can now depend upon a fresh colo nial brew.

Gas consumers are reminded that Mon day, the 27th inst., at 6 p.m., is the last day on which discount is allowed on gas and coko accounts,

DEFENCE NOTES.

Another Torpedo Boat,

Ist a recent issue we were able to give | our readers tho first informal ion that, hnd j been published iv the colony of Hid Excel- I j lency's plan of arming a number of Hmnll I ( steamers and steam launches to be vised for I ( harbour defence in connection with tho tor- ( pedo boat. I'ho SGh. mo appears to be a j good and cheap one, and at once commends itself a_ on idea that has nothing Utopian . about it. We aro nor/ in n position to stato that already tho defence authorities are J.n tre_ty for tho purchase of a small t fast steams? .vhich formerly plied on the wators of ono of the rivers in the provincial district. Should the purchase be com pleted, the no.essary gear for her conver sion into an auxiliary torpedo boat may be expoctcd to reach Auckland in a fow Jays. Scrvlcoa of tho Grammar Softool Corps Accepted. The Honorary Secretary to the Grammar School Rifle Corps (Mr J. B. Gillillan) to day received nteloirram from tiiijjlon. J. A, Tolo intimating that tho Gofbrnment will accept tho services of the corfto. We learn that the Company will elect officers nt once, and commence drill as soon as possiblo Tho applications for enrolment are vory numerous. Defence of Motutapu Passage. Yosterday afternoon Major Cautley, Commander Douglas, and Mr Smyth, ac companied by Captain Fairchild, of the s.b. Hinemoa, proceeded to the Motutapu Passago in the haibour launch for tho pur poso of making soundings, ns pre paratory steps to laying tho submarine mines for tho defence of that approach to Auckland. Iho greatest depth in the channel is about 35 feot, and owing to its sheltered position, is pre-eminently suited for tho laying of torpedoes. It was found while making a survey for the laying of tho submarino defences at Wellington, that the wave action was felt fully 70 feet bolow tho surface, thus rendering tho use of torpedoes in the most suitablo position near tho heads next to impossible. Tho Wellington torpedoes will consequently require to bo laid somo distance inside the heads. Tho Hinemoa'.. Movements. Another clinngo has taken placo in the Hinomon's movomonts. In accordance with instructions roceivod from Wellington tho vessel will leave Auckland for tho Bay of Islands at six o'clock this evening with Major Cautley and his coadjatore. To morrow morning will bo spent in survoying tho Bay of Islands, and in tho afternoon i Capt. Fairchild hopes to reach Whangarei, which will also bo in. pocted, It is feared that thero will not bo timo to visit the Great ■ Barrior. Captain Fairchild expects to bo back in Auckland on Saturday morning, ! and that bo will loavo for Napior and Wel lington on Saturday night with the defence officers. ■ Tho Dofonco Officers and tho Position. Tho dofonco officers now in Auckland considor that matters aro now vory critical, ! and evidently aro momentarily expecting news of tho commencement of hostilities. 1 During today Major Cautley has been busily engaged at his office in the Supreme Court buildings writing despatches to tho Government.

Thq l.cv, Mr Tebbs, who was elected Chaplain of tho City Guards recently, was present at tho weekly parade of that lino corps last ovening, and aftor parado, thanked tho Company for the honour thoy had dono him. Ho mentioned that ho had beon a voluuteor in England, and stated he had always taken a warm interest in tho movement. Coliogo nnd Grammar Sohool Itlflo Corpa. About sixty " old boys " of the Auckland Grammar School hold a meeting last even ing In l.obson's Dining-rooms tho pur pose of considering the formation of a rillo volunteor company. On tho motion of Mr Ernost W. Burton, seconded by Mr J. Gil lillan, Mr Slomail was appointed captain, ond Mr J. Gillillan hon. secretary. Tho Chairman called upon Mr Jackson Palmer to road tho Volunteer Kogulations bearing upon tho object of tho mooting, and pro posed " That a Volunteer Corps bo formed to be called * Tho Auckland Collcgo and Grammar School Kiilo Corps.'" This pro position having been seconded by Mr Jiuiton, was unanimously carried. Mr C. F. Boumo (Hoadmastcr of the Grammar School) spoke encouragingly of tho movomont, and considered that such a corps would form a bond of union betwocn tho past and present scholars. Sergeant Birloy, drill instructor, said ho had con sulted Colonel Lyons and Major Shophord on tho subject, and had beon informed that tho Government had in Auckland 1,000 stand of arms ready for use. Tho Govern ment, it is thought, would contribute to the cost of uniforms. The following were ap pointed a committee, viz :—Messrs Bourne, Sloman, Gillillan, Gribbin, aud Palmer. Forty of tho young men present signed the memorial to be forwarded to the Govern ment. It was also agreod that tho memorial be left ot tbe ollico of Messrs Council and Cooper for signatures, A vote of thanks closed tho meoting. Tho Dolonco of Dunedin. Tho mounting of tho big guns at Forbury and Lawyer's Head was completed yester day by Mr T. B. Lord (Public Works) and Sorgoant-Major McKay, A.C., and should occasion requiro it, they could open tiro at onco. Dunedin is therefore in a state of dofonco against bombardment from tho sea. Tho mounting of tho puns ot Taiaroa Hoads is expected to be finished oarly next woek, thus completing tho dofonco of the harbour.

LOCAL OPTION AT MOUNT ALBERT.

The groatest excitement that has ever pre vailed in connection with any election in this district was evinced yesterday over tho drink question, Tho Licensed Victuallers' interests wero represented by M r S. Stephen son, who with his staff woro flying colours of red, white, and green, and were early at tho polling booth, quite confidont of success The temperance party, ably aided by non abstainers, wore alive to the importance of tho occasion, and were equally confidont of succoss. The Stephenson party relied on the new-comers who had taken up their residence on tho Kingsland Estate, and events provod this to be correct, for after 5 p.m. thoy rolled up in cartloads together with tho Ohinamen, and this caused the Licensed Victuallers'party to bejubilant and confidont thoy had gained the day. Liquor is said to have been freely supplied to the " free and independent" voters for a week before, and also on the polling day gratuit ously, and the effect of this was evidenced in the loud talk of a large number, other than ratepayers, who waited to hear the announcement of the poll. Mr Brooking, tho presiding officer, announced about 0.30 p.m. tho result of the contest as follows :—Against a license, 66; for a license, oO ; majority, 6; in formal votes, 5. Mr Spragg, representing the temperance party, acknowledged the result, and proposed a vote of thanks to tbe Returning Officer. Tho disappointed section adjourned to tho corner house, and continued to " drown their sorrows " in the flowing bowl to the small hours of the morn ing.

The poll was declared iv the presence of about 100 persons. We may add that tho election yosterday excludes licensed houses from the Mount Albeit District for a term of three years.

MYSTERIOUS DROWNING CASE.

Wanganui, this day. An old soldier named Charles Kelly was found drowned iv tho river yes terday morning. He had come into town at ten last night, and when last seen was quite sober. When taken out ho had several large gashes on his face, the cause of which is not yet apparent. At the inquest the evidence went to prove that the wounds on the head did not cause death, but that most probably he fell down the embankment and stunned him self, and his head being under tho water, ho was suffocated. A verdict, was returned in aconrdanco with tho medical ovidenco.

" New Zealand Parmer, Beo and Poultry Journal."-Mr John B. Walkinton, Wavorloy, writes with reference to the above periodical :—

"I havo the March number; it alone is worth all tho money. I only trust you may bo able to keep it up to present standard. I shall do all I can to help you in recommending it. The week be. fore I got your sample number (March), 1 had Bpent a day aud a half looking through back numbers of the 'Fiold,' to hunt out an article ro Chcsw-ck apple oongross with no success.'

It will be soon by reference to our ad vertising columns that Barnes's 'bus will leave tho Union Bank at 6.15 for tho Avondalo C. C.'s annual ball,

CABLEGRAMS.

(HY CABLE—COPYRIGHT.)

Commercial News, serious F;tll in Stocks. London, .April 21.- Consols whew a con siderable fall, being quoted at 9..g. a decline of Hon last price. The market rate of dis count has fallen J, and is now 2j>, or 1J below the bank rate, New Zealand Govern -

ment eonurities are without, quotable varia tions. There is no change perceived in the produce market:—Pig irrn, No. 1, Scotch,

f.0.b., Clyde, 40s ; galvanised iron, gospel oak, 20, guagc, £17'; copra, best Sydney, £15 ss.

Now Zealand Frozen Moat, (Pteceived April 23—12.30 p.m.) LONDON, April 22. — The shipment of frozen mutton, consisting of 10,500 carcases ex ship Marlboro, from Oamaru, January 3rd, has boon examined, and found in good

condition.

THE NATIVE REBELLION IN CANADA.

Further Success of tho Robels,

LosroN, April 22. The rebellion in north-west Canada still continues, and the Indians have succeeded in capturing Fort Pitt.

English Elootornl Reform.

London, April 22.

Tho Redistribution of Scats Bill has been passed through a committeo of tho House of Commons.

DETENTION OF THE MAIL STEAMER.

(BY CAULIJ.—COrYKTGUT.)

Sydney", thia day. Owing to the difficulty which has arisen between the Seamen's Union and the Pacific Mail Company, the latter have been com pelled to postpone tho departure of the Zealandia until Saturday next.

THE COMING ELECTIONS.

(l). TELEGRAPH—PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

WKI/LINOTON, this day. Wuits for the Oamaru and Tauranga elec tions to the Houso of Representatives will be issued on Friday, and tho elections wilt take place within six weeks from that dato.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

An accident, which had a subsequent fatal termination, occurred in Rutland-street last evening. A man named James Burslem wub leaving the Clarendon Hotel about six o'clock last evening, nnder the influence of liquor, when ho slipped on tho steps, and fell heavily on tho pavement. His son, a lad of 12 years, was with bim, and seeing that his father did not riso, tho boy called for help. Ho was carried into the hotel, but as ho was believed to bo suffering from a drunken fit, medical assistance was not im mediately sent for. Eventually, when it was see that tho man was in a serious condition, a doctor could not bo found. A brother-in law of Burslem'- bearing what had hap pened, camo with a cab and convoyed Burslem to his residence in White-street, off Upoer Queen street, whore he expired a few minutes after his arrival. It is be lieved that death was the result of concus sion of tho brain. Deceased, who is sup posed to havo been working at the North Head fortifications, leaves a wife and young family.

GOVERNMENT INSURANCE BOARD'S PROPERTY SPECU LATIONS.

(BY TELEGRAPH—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Wellington, this day. At tho ordinary weekly meeting of tho Government Insurance Association Board hold yesterday, the subject of establishing local boards wps discussed, and a prelimin ary resolution in favour of local boards was adopted, after which the question was ad journed till noxt meeting. As you aro probably already aware, it is proposed to establish local boards at Auckland, Dunedin, and Christchurch. Tho state ment of tho "Timaru Herald" that it is proposed to establish fifteen boards in tho colony is authoritatively donied,boing abso lutely without foundation, and such a sug gestion was never made. As regards tho acquirement of sites, wild statements con cerning theso purchases have also been cir culated. There have been four purchases mado. Tho first was at, Wellington, and comprised the building in which the Asso ciation was located whilst it remained a Government Department. The price paid was a reasonable one, and a considerable amount in rents is received from other offices in tho samo building. When the contemplated additions are made, it is likely tho Association will receiveaboutsporcent. from its investment and its own office room free, or nearly so. Tho purchase at Dunedin was so good that an advance of £10,000 could since have been obtained on it. The prosent rental on the property exceed 5 per cent, on the purchase money, and when the property is improved by building, it will yiold an excellent return on tho in vestment, besides providing tho space re quired by tho Association for its own uso. Tho properties at Auckland and Christchurch have also tenants, and are likely to prove very remunerative invest ments, besides providing the necessary office accommodation. It i 9 urged that in vestments in the four cities named cannot be bad ones if they yield fair present in terest, for it is certain that in the future they must greatly advance in value. To get J) fair present interest and office ac commodation free in these cities seems to bo good policy, ond to the best interests of the policy-holders.

THE ELECTRIC CIRCUS.

Another large assemblage gathered in the large marquee on the reclaimed land last evening to witness tho performance by Woodyear's Electric Circus Company. The programme^ was similar to that presented on the previous evening, and was repeated with equal success. Several of the items were of exceptional merit, and call for special notice. The juggling tricks of Pro fessor Taylor, performed while heti balanc ing himself ca a largo globe, are of a most skilful and astonishing character. His dexterous manipulation of the knives and balls was loudly applauded. The screon scone by two Japanese is very clever. A large screen, not unlike a Star advertising board in appearance, is balanced on tho upturned foet of one of the per formers whilo be reclines on hi. back. The other Japanese mounts to the top of the screon,andaccompli6hes somo extraordinary balancing exploits. Both the lady per formers were good in their respective acts, and tho clowns wore unusually droll. The programme, which is a good one, will bs repeated to-night. Wo should not forget to mention that Mr Woodyear has generously dotermined to admit the children of the various charitable institutions to tho matinee performance on Saturday afternoon free of charge.

MINING NEWS.

(B_ lEIiEGBAPH—OWN -OKKE-FO>'_>l.NT.)

Thames, this day

Caledonian Low Level.—A water motor to drive the air compressor was successfully started this afternoon.

Dr.voN Level Cross. — Crushing from stopes on tho cross reef is shaping pay ably.

■ Saxon.—Tho manager expects to finish crushing early next week, and will have remunerative return.

Caledonian. — Tho different parcels treated havo yielded satisfactorily, and return will bo to hand at the end of the week.

Darwin.—The crosscut along tho bound ary has passed through tho footwall branch of tho lode, and a small gold-bearing stringer was found this morning on its hanging wall Woodstock (Kar'angnhake).—The crush ing of 85 loads of quartz yielded 10_o_.. retorted gold.

Camuiua.—This Company paid a divi dend of a shilling per share during the month.

THREATENED RUSSIAN WAR.

dgdf;lk;sld'dsfghdfhfgh

Las Ken»!; *«•■»£*

Lo »W».x ,A_rii__ .tat_.m_.nt_ were made ]m . Houses of Lotd. and Comn^''^ Granville anil Mr Gladstone n» ' Thestawmentswei'otot^e^*^ Government were in receipt of f)' — Peter Lumsdeu's reply to the^^ tion which had been addreJ^Tt? asking for a .ml account 0 f fl, • hostilities near Penjdeh, but th.^ account differed very Berio M l y w* supplied to the Ruesian Gov^S* General Komaroff. *.<».

In the Houee of Commons Mr G W asked for a vote of credit for m 2* of which £4,500,000 wae intended ,3 tions in the Soudan. In propo^jjJJ the Premier announced that the situation of foreign aflairs rendered & bont on Great Britain to p repare J* forces. TbeGovernmentwerenotpre,;!! to abandon the operations at pr^i fc conducted in Egypt, bat -^^ liberty of action in the future, thelA troops 9 ow in Egypt, MrQW^S} would prove sufficient to hold Suaife the Britith forceo being reserved foT^ emergency that might arise, r

Russian Deceit Exposed From further particular, which •£, transpired regarding General l^,, reply to tbe British Government,it that he places coneiderableeinphasijS patient bearing of ths Afghan troi^ cays the conflict was entirely doe to _» aggressive action of the R^^ mander. His report completely those supplied by General Komarcff,'^, shows that the Afghans di. .otadn^ after the announcement of the "tgtetw, arrived at betweea England and R^' and that the fighting which took pl»« forced by General Komaroff. ' ' The British Ultiinirtu. The "Standard" states thatthtG.f tn i. Mont have re-demanded tbV K_mlm Co vernment to disavow General Kotrtawr* action. . The Attitude of TurkeJ/fc Persistent reports are in oirouL-tim j, the effect that the Power, willendesyottlt compel Turkey to maintain strict w itn% in the evont of war breaking out. The Marquis of Salisbnry oaftt Situation. , , The Marquis of Salisboryj'■■ spealiag it Wrexham, urged the Goven__eiittoi_t the Russian aggression in Afghanutaii.' Fitting Out Cruisers at .Sydney. SYDH_r,ftij^j ( ; The work of fitting out the Btamilij Massilia as an armed crumi'u beingm. ceeded with here under the mptitjiimul tho Imperial naval authorities.: She ril carry a crew of 120. jra?" C .; , ~;^ (BY TELEGRAPH-OWX COHS-toSJEH.).'.

Cabinet Meeting To-day.

Wellington, t_u«fttat«. Tho Ministry were eotnmone. In i cabinet meeting early thiainprahig^iai are still sitting. It was thoaghitliiit Hi oarly meeting wasincoDKqueiioedtiijti. aspect of Anglo-Russian affairs,! information on the situation had tes received from the Agent-General. TO ever may be the nature of tee 6ti___,' beforo the Cabinet, I hare ascertained tlf? Government have:1 received -:■ no■' futttoi advices from the AgenWtewstrt oitSk; probabilities or otberwhe'ofw*.

AFFAIRS IN EGYPT.

THE VOTE FOR THE 601DA.1 j OP_OA__Q!».^ji#;l'':.: The Suakim-Bor.or Bsllmj, fioswivAptilfi In the course of the debAWon the 'vets of credit, the Government a__on_oedtl)iilit portion of tbe vote to bo wpentW kl* Soudan was not intended to pwft'i future operations. It was, ahoetatal fill. tho railway now in conrse.f cosutnii from Suakim would only be construttoll" a point necessary, for tho security of Befo England Accepts ReipoMltiW . LO. DOS, iffit Mr Gladstone has admitted thai Is British Government wero instruiMnl-n causing tho suppression of "Leto^ Egyptien," which has besn .tWi^ 1 protest by France.

RETURN OF LORD UNKNOWN

- Tbe Frenob OwrHl ~~_0._0., A.« General Lord Wolseley will; «'«B| England. - ■ ■ ■~, The Porte supportsNuta -W* ' action in suppressing tne .»«r E^t!en'' ?mM\ The reply of Nubsr W^lgJ' matum of the Freach Govemmfflt. % ing reparation for the «.]f?£"|r journal, "Le BoqAmcMfllSg been received, and proves to baOW" character. itfw*' '

UNKNOWN STITUENTS.

(BTTELEGIUPH-OWSCOI-iarO^-) Mb J. S. BtTC-IAND Ws*s&Sfs'i vote of confidence at W^^j night. He hoped the' Go^Wj-fS not press on the We«tO«i« Company failed to **toVffifia) He thought highly °f SV tot <* local government** M the Cheap Money Bill, «^^,ij tho class "tended. The«. really meant for Can«^«* would get all he couldl for «\ railway rates to Canterbury— ■ _, At Balclutba Mr Thom^Ji tioned about his acton id^SW last session, and said it TO j, -$ to turn out a turn out another Government w^ An amendment simp^ his address was M?S,i'til, majority, and a voteoftto^

POLICE COURT.-This Fiji.

(Before C. D. WMtoomteand'-^jM DRU N KENNESS.-Beveraldri_W^, «| ished In the usual roMftitch^SffiM False PBKTENCES. 7 AJ«^SiWi»;H| withob_ining_3byfal»PjK ltf iM <"H| Novell at Waiorongowsi.-"^ ~»| Aroha. ~ M|lli.B with a breach of the SbwerejJj^S^Jßl by travelling in the 5.8.1 c Auckland without a WS|iflß guilty.-Arthur Crawford.«»^ v, foMj .vidence. De^»'^»t_t«ffl»B parage if ho wft'& »■ ne.s had declined to_£°%llslffi3M a-iid ho could p_iy tbe_?^«(ttU_*sjsß to tho Bluff.-|er_eant^«» d v««M ant's sUter had been but no reply had bee costs, or in default seveq mMlmMm with hard labour. B .,, Mrs Mftf *BS.M Bv-i.AWS. T lx»iis,,f™SSwi*^_SS____l causing nn ohatrtichononUß ; Mp™ street by pUein* C«»JftW_lSf_B pleaded guilty. ™?¥? c & IfgSfH In at tho doorway^ ,&*»^MM^KM goods from them first. J™g»^fflLs* H Scott was charged wi'B Sw»;-« horso unattentfed.„,,, a_o*4_sß_-H ringer, for causing « IC , (s<3ftß his handcart, was.fine * ™ c wf||B , Broburg, for leaw?gM« o^ c*s«™|. tended-in *»*t"«««B structioii on the, trami" 01 ~Mji|Kj Ta. Ross's m_nd._ the defendant "J »g in'2'hisw%,allt_oMi««' ' ■-

THE AUCtvLAJSD ftVAtfLNM »IAIi.THURSJ_)At, APRIL 28 1885



TMPORTANT NOTICE, I JAS. IT~BON_>, MACHINE PRINTER AND PAPER RULER (ESTAItI.ISIIED 1880) Begs to inform his friends and patrons that having purchased the Stock and Premises of Mr Chas. H. Gllby, Stationor, &c, Duko-strect, Cambridge, it la hiß intention to remove from his present Printing Offlco to a moro commo dious ono, to bo ereotcd a' rear of shop, and in f ut.uro to combine tho Stationery, Tobacconist, and Fancy Goods business with tho Printing, which branch will still be under hla personal Buporvißlon, and rocoive his unremitting atten tion as horctoforo. JAMES S, BOND, PRINTER AND STATIONER, TOHACCONIBT. And Dealer in Fancy Goods, Toys, &0., CAMBRIDGE. MILITIA SUlTS.—Samuel Coombos & Co. havo lust openod 350 Boys' Militia Suits, 3s lid to 7s tld. Every motlior should now havo her Boy In Uniform. T~ 6~H N WHITE, ll TAILOR AND IMPORTER. _„,„ VICTORIA-STREET (NEXT UNION BANK), Begs lenvo to acquaint his frionda nnd tho publlo that he has mado oxtenslvo alterations and additions to his Shop, including a Cutting and Fitting Room, in whloh all the latest im provements capable of making a first-class Tailoring Establishment havo boon adopted. Ho Is now open, and has a magnificent Btock, cmbraoing evory thing new or worthy of atten tion in tho homo mar. ots. JUST ARUIVSD, EX RUAPEHU : SECOND SHIPMENT SEASON'S GOODS. «... "* —B> THE LIVER STIMULANT.-A COMPOUND EXTRACT OF EUONOMYN AND PODOPHYLLIN WITH TARAXACUM —II INCOMPARABLY THC BEST TONIC rOH BILIOUS NESS, TORPID lIVCR, DYSPEPSIA, FLATULENCE, AND LOSS OF APPETITE. 2s. 60. PER BOTTLE, M MCKI-'S. CH.ttlS., &.U.H S.nttl, MIC-UH-