COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, etc.. To-night. Abbott'sOperaHouse-WiUlamson^Garner.Md Musgrove'a Com panr In " The Magistrate. 8. Agricultural Hall-Flower, Frult.and Vegetable Show, 12 noon to 10 p.m. •Religious Meeting in the Tent on Surrey Hills Katato. Ponsonby Road. 7.30. Temperance Hall-Meeting Kmployeni and Km ployte In the Metal Trado, 7.30. Drill shed-Officers of Auckland Garrison, 4. Ponsonby Hall-Vocal and Instrumental Con-

cert, 8 Drill shed—Auckland and Ponsonby Navals, 7.30.

Auction Sales To-morrow. Hunter and Nolan, Otahnhu—Timber, &c, 11.

Chief Post-office, Auckland

MAII.H Wlli CLOSE AB tTNDKB I—

This Dat. For Opotlkl, per Douglas, at 1 p.m. For Wbitiangl, Gnm Town, Upper Mill, and Talma, per lona. at 5 p.m. For Tanranga, and Opotiki, per Clansman, at

For Whangarei Head?, Paraa. Walpu. Whan garei. Kamo, and Mangapal, per Wellington, at 5 p.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5 SO P.m.

Saturday, 2iJth lnat.

For Wnltara, and Southern port*, per Staff*, at 7 40 a m. orWaiwera, Te Kapa acd Warkwortb, por

For Katlkatl. Aongatete. Tauranga. and Opotlkl, via. Thames, per Rotomahana, at 2 p.m. For Thames, per Rotomahana, at 2.30 p.m.

Monday. 28th last,

For rutlkl and Coromandel, par Coromandel

at 11.30 a.m. For lUwone, and Hokianga. &c via Onehunga, per Oreti, at 11 a.m. or Tuuranga and Opotlkl, per Chelmaf ord, t 4 p.m. Per Mariposa aa follows :—

For Samoa, Sandwich Islands, Unitad States of America, Canada. British Columbia, Cen tral and South America, and British and Fore Ign West Indies, at 5 p. n*. For tho United Kingdom and Continent of Knrope, at 5 D.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers at 5.30 p.m. Late letters, bearing an extra fee of Odin addition to the postage, will be received by thn Mail Agent on board the steamer up to the time of galling. This mall will be due at London May 2. Tuesday. 29th lnst.

For New Plymonth, and Southern ports, per Hawea, at 7.40 a.m.

(Signed) S. B. BI3S. Chief Postmaster,

Chief Post-office. Auckland!

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

SuwazT.—This evening. 6.0. StTNKiaz.—To-morrow morning, 6.13. MOOH'B AOB.—New Moon, 25t0. 3.4S a.m.

HIGH WATER.

AcnrxAND —Ihls evening, 7.2S ; to-morrow morning, 715. Manukau Heads — This evening, 10.8 ; to morrow morning, 10.25. Kaifaba Heads-This evening, 118; to morrow morning, 11.25.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY,

Clansman, s s.. Farquhar, from Russell lons, a.fl., Amodeo. from Barrier Douglas, h.h., Außtia, from Opotiki Wellington, a.s., Stephenson, from Whangarei Chris tins. sch.. from Kassell

DEPARTURE.

LAST EVENING. Ocean, scb., Rust, for Opotlkl Medora.son., Subritiky. for Whingaroa Lao. cutter, IJowd. foi East Coast L'anopua, barque. Loose, for Tahiti TODAY. To Anau, 8.8.. Molnto3h, for South Walwera, Ben., Pankau, for Mercury Bay

STEAMERS TO ARRIVE.

Coromamdel, from Cprpmandel. Saturday. sp.m. Kotomahana, from Thamea, to morrow, 0.30

p.m. loria, from Mercary Bay, Saturday night Clansman, from TanraDga, Sunday, early Janes Nicoll, from South Soa Islands, April 2 Zealandia. from San FranclßOO. due April '2 .(enterprise, from Thames, to-day, IL3O p m. Mariposa, from Sydney, Sunday afternoon Arawa, from Hrmonih April 10 Mararoa, fr jm Sydney, Tuesday, early

Inwards Coastwise—JUrgaret. from Wai wera; Progresp, from Whungapoa.

Ot/twabds Coastwise.—Vfolet, for Thames- Ths aa Arawata, overdue from Fiji, had not been signalled up to a late hour this afternoon. The s s. Douglas brought the following pas sengers: Miss MoAuley, Meaera Shalders. akipocr, Turley. Arthur.

A brlgantina inside Tlrltiri. probably the Defiance from Newcastle win signalled when we wont to press.

The barque Canopus was towed to sea by the stsam-tug Awhina. and set Bail for Tahiti with a fresh and favourable breeze, whlah promised to take her sp;edi:y clear of the land.

The three-masted schooner William Phillips haa cleared at the Customs for New York, wiih 2.013 cases gum, valued at £iOIB2 Passengers : Moiisrß J. Edwards and F. G. Mldwood.

The brigantine Aurora, which left Newc<stle on February 9 was no: boinii for this port, as erroneously reported in the Sydney papers, but for Port Macltay, whuro she has probably ar rived long since.

The a 11ona arrived from Great Barrier early to day with the folljwlne pissengora :—Mr and Mm AUlng. Mra Boyed, Kite a Blackwell. Mesarß F. Blackwell, Purdln, Buok. H. PauU, Stark. and Ryan.

The as. Clansman arrived from Russoll, Whangaroa, and Mongonui this morning. Pas songerd :— Messrs Clarke. Dlxon, Bramiey, Hay wood, Leeco, Momldy, Welby, Bacon, Cottou, Dlxoa, Wolls, Ihaka To Tai, M.H.R.. Me3dames Clarko, Stanoliffe. Kemp, Leece, Low. Misses Kane and Bennett.

The s.s. Wellington. Captain Stepbenson, ar rived from Whangaroi early this morning, with tho following oosßengcrs:—Saloon : Messrs Mar shall. Meredith, Matrian. Dlxon, AdaiEß, Porter, Alwojd, Paterson. Byron. Lloyd. Smith. Wolfo. Wilson, James, LUg.Merrltt.Falrburn, Whitny, Brealey, Carter |2), Rev. and Mrs Ilewlett, Mes dames Peters and dauahter, Frasar. Glover. McKenzle, Jamea. McKallar, Hay, SimDßOn. Misses Porter. Snell. Moony, and 8 steerage.

The New Zealand Shipping Company have great demand j ust now for passenger accommo dation by the direct steamers We learn from Mr C. V. nought id. the Auckland ma-jaeer, that the Kalftoura, announced to leave Welling ton on the 7th of next month, has nearly all her berths engaged. «ho carries 75 saloon paßsen ttoTi). and 65 berths hava already been taken up. Intending passengers Bhould therefore make early application for tickets. Kvon at this early date a large number of berths have been secured by Intending passengers on the Tongarlro. to sail for London on May 15, and tbo Aorangl, to follow In June.

The arbitration case In which Mr C. V. Houghton was appointed judge to decida as to the liability of Captain D. H. McKenzle. owner, and Captain Haultain. roaster of the brigantine Virginia, ha) been settled apparently to the satlifaction of both parties. Too Mirß Vir ginia sank at Whangarei when loaded with coal, and was shortly afterwards floated, and brought to Auckland. tCaptata Haultain wes working tho vessel on thirds, and made a claim for £a 0 against the owners. Mr Houghton de cided that the sinking of the ship was acciden tal, and adjusted the matter on the principle] of general average, the result being that Captain Haultain was awarded the sum of £1 odd.

The b.b. Te Anau left for Melbourne, via the South, at noon. Passengers for Glaborne: Messrs Bruce and Holroyde. For Napier: Mrs Hobjn, Messrs Rio. R. H. Jones, Dobuon, C. Hoyle. Rev. G. Hall, Miss Hall. Master Kills. For Wellington: Mr and Mrs Talnes, Mr and Mra t taples, Mr and Mra Fitzgerald, Mrs W. Wlllow.Mlaaea B. Tunstall and Slmpeon.Messrs W. A. Graham. Cromble. R, W. Fryer, Q. Ball, J. Lewis, L. Sbilllto. Wyllo, J. Cahill. Duggan. Kirk, Person. Pearee. For Lyttelton: Rev. G. Cripps. i'or Dunedin: Mr and Meadamos Hlg glns and 3 children. Black, Spioks i.ncl wife. J. M. Brindloy. Fitsimmons. For Melbourne: Miss A. Allotn. Steerage (or various ports: Constable McCabe. wife and family, W. Good. Miss Roohefort, W. Sorensen, O. Mooler, F. Chapman, Mrs McUlashcn and 2 ohildren, Mrs Alton, Mrs Sorenser, liolnn. Yott, Forest, G. Williams. Miss Craig, A. G. Martin, J. Hackett, T. Lidston.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVAL. Galrloch, s.s , McArthur, from Waltara

DEPARTURES.

Galrloch, s s., MoArthnr. for Waltara Uretl. B s., Robertson, for Wanganul

The 8.8. Gairloch arrived from Waltara yeß torday afternoon with the follewlng passen- Bora:—Mlas K. Dunn. Mesdames Lever and 2 children. Gibbs, Otto, C jstobodie and 3 children, Oaptain Morrison, Dr. U*tnDbell, Messrs Turner. S'acltpole, Gordon. Mitchell, Glbbs, Otto. Williams, Homer, Castobodio, Winks. McKen zlo, Webster, Heir don, Hon. W. J. M. Larnaoh, G natiTCß, and 20 urtillerymcn. Bhe loft again at 2 o.clock with cargo and passengers as follows:—Me;srs CorkhlQ. Gallagher, Mies Gallagher, and i natives.

The s s. Oreti, for Wangatful, loft yesterday ■with a general cargo and thfi f-'Mwlog passen gers :—Mr and Mrs Muleahy vi. family (7), Mr. J.lrs and Miss Walker. Mrs Keira and family (2), Mrs DODnolly, Mloa Taylor, Messrs Gibbonß, Parry. Clare, King, Swift, and 3' t-erage.

The s.B. Staffa had not arrived lji to 3 o'clock

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Gibbobne, this day.—Arrived: Australia, from Auokland. 683 p.m. yesertday; Sailed: Southern Cross, for Auckland. 11 a.m. to-day.

Waitbba. this day.—Arrived: Gairloch, from Onelmuga, 8 35 a.m.

New Plymouth, this day.—Arrived: Oroti, from onetmnga, ti.EO a.m.

Wellington, this day.—Sailed: Plelone. ship. for London.

Lyttblton, March 24. -Sailed: Manapourl, for the North, Paesengers for Auckland : Mrs Riding. Mrs Price Robson, Simpson, Heap. Goddard, Battley, Donne,' Nicholas, Grant, HartneU. For Sydney :Mr and Mrs Thomp son, Mr Price.

COMMERCIAL.

Evening Star Office. this any. Mr Alfbbd Buckland's Weekly Rei-obt —At the Haymarkut on Friday, Much 13. loose fodder was lower in price ■, and brought from 2a to 3s the cwr.; oats; sold freely at late values prices ranged from Is lOd to Za 51 the bushel: maize, 3a ltd; bone dust, prime sample, from £7 10a to £8 the ton. Horse t tuck were yarded In fall number, and cold more freely than ot late : Medium draught, unbroken, three-year-old colts brought from £6 10a to £8; medium draught quiet la iiurnußs, from £» to £15; drought, from

£5 5s to £12. At the hide and skis.salei an Tueß day, 22ad, the demand foirhsavy hidescontinued, prices for them ranged from 4d toi 4Jd the fit VwU Tiuu-hfld "8a the hide. TsUow, 14s to 17s he cwtTpelts andßkins from Bdto2s 3d each. scarcely obtained late values, and a few pens were withdrawn ; pig*, numerous, sold freely at fcitweak^ values ;flt calves, ndmerous. were required and sold satisfactorily.

Messrs Hunter and Nolans ReporTj- Horeefeed and seeds were In fair ™oply. We quote oats at 2a 4d per bushil; chaff, £15s; rye flraas, 53; cocksfoot. 7s. Horses: An avoraore number were brought forward and met a steady submitted by auction at the Durham yards on KriTy; bidding was slow, except for some Rood draught, for which Uera.was brisk competition up to £20. which was the htehert figureob tained; hacks we quote at from &> to £14 ; light harness horses from £9 to £16; draughts £IS to £20. Wool, hide 3 and skins: Small quantities brought forward; good demand. \vo quote, ox hides from 3Jd to ljd ; ccw, 2Jd to 3jd; calf-skins, from 3d to 4id; sheepskins, from is Sd to 33 4d. CatUe: Supply under tn« average, and steady demand for all descriptions, with an upward tendency, in value for well fatted, light weight Bteers; other description of stock unchanged. Not Quite so a any were yarded at Newmarket as on the previous week, but Bidding was steady through out the sale; still, prices flucunted considerably. In the butchers pens thore was] a preponderance of cows, which were not of co ready sale aa steeis; for the latter a slight advance in pneo was given, but there was no noteworthy altera- Son "n other descriptions. Sheep: The New market Yards ware moderacely fi led. and there was a steady demand, and an advance of from Gd to 13 6d per head was given for fat theep. but stores were at very low values. Pigs were yarded In good numbers, and those of.a good description met with a steady competition at from 2d to 3d per lb, live weight.

Messrs G. W. Binney and Sons' Report.— At our sale on Tuesday, hides, sheep skins, etc., f nlly maintained late quotations. Prime os sold atl'd perlb (303 ea;h»; heavy gum ox. 21s to 23a each ; heavy salted ox 4d to 4jd; medium 3!d to 33d; steer and cow hides, 3d to 3J4 per lb, calf skins 31d to lid; yearling, 3d to 3*d; damaged, id to lid per lb Sold 300 at quota tions. Sheap skins: Salted In brisk demand, and from Is 9d to 2a for prime: lid to Is 3d, for medium; dry pelts, 2s to Is 3d ; lamb skins. Is t023 4deaoh; full woo', 5a lOd each; wool, id per lh. TaUow: lfla per cwt. Bones :4s 9d per cwt.

The Auckland Grocers' Association quotes the wholesale price of fresh butter, lOd per lb, and fresh eggs. Is 6d per dozen, delivered, for thY week ending March 31. The above quota tlons refer to best quality only.

Deaths.

CLOTHIKR.-On March 21, at London s'rect, Ponsonby, Samuel Qnyor Cloth'er, son of J. J, Clothier; aßed 9 wookn

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

FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 1887.

the wrong that needi reaiatancj, For the future in the distance, And On tooil that we can do.

Sik William Jervois's term of office

expires during the present year, and rumours are already afloat with regard to his successor. Before any new appointment is made, however, we think it is the duty of the Cabinet to sacure for Parliament an opportunity of reviewing the question of salary. _ It would, of course, be an ungracious thing to reduce the gubernatorial salary during the currency of a Governorship, but no reasonable objection could be offered to the exercise of the right of colonists to curtail the expenses of the C4overnoi's establishment before any new appointment is made. Reductions are the order of the day, and they can he most easily made at the top of the tree. It is not the hard-worked telegraph, postal, and customs officials who are overpaid. The salaries in those de partments are on the average below thos obtained in private employ ments ; but the enormous legislative expenditure, and the salaries of the higher grades of officers, may bo cut down without the persons affected suffering the loss of a single comfort. And first among these stands His Ex cellency the Governor. It will be understood that no action taken in Ehis matter now would have any bearing upon Sir William Jervois. His Excellency has, we believe, given more valuable service for his pay than many Governors who preceded him. He came to New Zealand when it was defenceless, and by the enthu siasm which he aroused on the subject of national defence and his own know ledge of the subject, he has been the means of placing the inhabitants in a position to offer a very effective resis tance to any foreign Power that might attempt to disturb our peace and security. But even this work could have been secured at less cost. The salary of the Surveyor-General of Ordnance, in England, one of the most highly-paid officers in the British ser vice, is only £1,500 a year, and Inspec tor-General of Artillerj', £1,100. General Viscount Wolseley, as Adju tant-General, only recedes .£2,700, and the Secretary of State for the Colonies, in whose gift these colonial governor ships rest, £5,000 a year. The enormous salaries attached to Coloaial Governorshipss are a survival of a bygone age, when the governors went out to hold petty courts in tropical colonies for a few years, usually return ing with a bad liver and worse temper to spend their days in retirement. But it is perfectly propesterous that while the Premier of New Zealand receives only .£1,750 and his colleagues .-£1,200 a year, the Chief Justice £1,700, and the other Chief Judges of the land £1,500, the Governor should be paid £7,500. In this huge sum we can trace the tide-mark of New Zealand extravagance. The Governor of New South Wales, a much more populous colony, only gets £7,000; and the Governors of Queensland and Tasmania £5,000. All these salaries are, however, much too high. The President of the United States re ceives only £10,000 a year, and Congress in 1876 cut down the salary to ;£5,000, but President Grant vetoed the Act. The salary of the President of the Swiss Confederation is £540 a year. A fair standard for the emoluments of Colonial Governors may be found among the salaries of the Governors of States in America. But the very highest of these — New York and Pennsylvannia—are only 10,000 dollars (£2,000) each, and they range down wards to 1,500 dollars (£300) in Maine and 1,000 dollars (£250) in Vermont. We should not pro pose, however, in view of the high salaries that have ruled, in other departments of Government in the colonies, to put the Queen's representa tives on any beggarly allowance. Still we are of opinion that £3,000 a year and residences would be sufficient for the office. The present high salarios are only a temptation to noble men with embarrassed estates to come out and replenish their coffers at the expense of colonists. Several colonial Governors have notoriously withdrawn from the colonies in this way very large sums of money, and the continuance of such a system is not only an evil to the Colonies but a wrong to the Home country, where it places at the dis posal of English Ministers the means of exercising an unwholesome patro nage among their friends and sup porters.

City Water Supply.

We appear to be within measurable dis tance of a water famine, unless Jupiter Plaviua should have pity on our forlorn condition, and loosen the floodgates of the sky for our special benefit. The reservoirs are at a low ebb, the springs have fallen off in volume, and the pity Council recognised the urgency of the situation by last night de legating power to tbe Streets Committee to deal with a proposed supplementary supply from Edgecumbe's Creek. Tbis supply will be taken from a point come distance up the stream from the present pumping station—far away from that part which is contaminated—and will necessitate an extra outlay of £20 per week in providing engine and pump, pipes, &c. The utilisation of this stream will add 960,000 gallons per week to our present supply, and will help to stave off the evil day. But as a "special Providence" cannot be ixpected to come to our relief, it be hoves every individual consumer to be a Providence to himself, and do his utmost to husband tbe resources now at command. The improvident habits of some people, and their utter disregard of the general good, may compel the City Council to take other steps. It is proved beyond doubt that some people who possess garden hose keep

\ the water pouring on thoir parched gardens during the night, and in order to counteract thia waste, a' very heavy tax on those ap pliances may be necessary. From the report of Mr Pond, which wo print elsewhere, it will bo seen that one " bogey " has been successfully disposed of. It has been so often assorted and insinuated that the city water supply was certain to leceive contamination from the night-soil deposits within half-a-mi!e of tho springs, that many peoplo becamo convinced that thero must be somo truth in tho allegations. Tho City Council did well not"to shirk enquiry, but rather to court it. Of courrO, the work of inspect ing was not analytigal, but Mr Pond'a knowledge of agricultural chemistry, etc., may be depended upon aa having guided him to correct conclusions. His opinion,

which U as emphatic aa it is welcome, is that there ia no possibility of tho city water supply receiving any contamination what ever from the uightsoil ; and ho adds a statement which local grumblers should lay to heart—that no odour was perceptible from tho ploughedin deposits at a distance of 50 yards or more to leoward. Mr Pond does not think that a piggery _in tho neighbourhood of the Springs is a menace to the purity of the waleis ; but on thia point ho ie not so emphatic. A de posit of rubbish on some land overlooking tha Chinese gardens ho considers moro dangeroue, and tho City Council will doubtless soe that the local authorities remedy thie nuiaanco. By tho policy now being pursuod, of ceasing to draw water from tho gathering ponds, and rathor sup plementing tho supply by tho oroction of auxiliary pumping works', thero is good ground to liopo that water consMiinora will got an article of pure quality, but in rospoct to quantity, tho necessity for economy can not bo too strongly impressed.

Our weekly market prico list will bo pub lished to morrow. Butter and eggs remain at last week's quotations. Southern Hour ia now worth from £4 15s to £5 ">3, and thero liaa been uo change in local brands tiaco our 1 ist roport. The knurl gum market ia docidedly weak for Papakura gum, which is worth from £3o to £:i~ por ton Good ordinary will realiso about £45, nnd East Coast from t57 to £GO. Tho sup plies for March up to yoatorday amountod to -483 tons.

In connection with tho Otahuhu race* to morrow, W. J. Buckland, E»q., President of the Club, forwardod an invitation to tho Admiral and officers of tho Fronoh man-o' war DuciMOPno to bo pnosont. Tho Admiral haa replied through hia aido-de-cainp, Lieutenant E. Vedol, that ho will gladly accept the invitation, and further, he haa intimated that ho ia Aillinf? to place tho rervioos of hia band at tho disposal of tho Kacine Club, which hna been accepted by them. A brakojwill loivo the Fronch Con sul's oll'im at 11 a.m to convoy tho dis tinguished visitora to tho course.

Tho Admiral of tho Fronch mun-o'-war Duquoano wishes it to bo notified that his vessel will be open to tho public on and after Sunday, tho 27th inst., from noon to 4 p.m. each day. As coaling ia now going on, eho cannot bo opan till that duto.

Those of our readers who nro shareholders in tho South British Insurance Co. will be glad to loam that tho losses sustained by that Company in tho late lire at Dunn's mill, Adolaide, are not ao heavy as would appear from the telegram published yestor day. Tho insurances were : - Building, £1,000 ; machinory, £4,000 ; stock, £1,500 : total, £G 500. Tho insurances woro divided as follows : New Zoaland, £1,500 ; South British, £1,000: Guardian, £1,000 ; North British, £1,000; Union, Now '-Soaland, £1,000; Equitable, £500; Lion, £500: Colonial Mutual, £500 : total, £6.500.

Tho largo room with the glaea cnpol.i in tho Free Library building, which was originally intended to fubsorvo tho pur poees of an Art Gallery, has beon fittod up as tho City Council Chamber, and tho tirst mooting in it took plnco Ust night. Not withstanding tho fact that copper wire had boen stretched across tho room half-,vay bstucon floor nnd coiling, its acoustics woro found to bo very dofoctive, and a number of tho Councillors were thero foro obliged to forsako their floats and tako up a standing position near tho Mayoral chair, in order to bo ablo to follow tho busi ness. It waa also found that tho room be came unsuitably hot through tho absence of ventilation, and tho gas Jets nn(l 'here fore to be turned down po very low that only a dim religious light pervaded tho scono. Ac a consequence of tho heat and tho difficulty of hearing what was said,tho Choral Society'a prantico in another part of the building tempted many Councillors away, and tho bulk of tho business was despatched by a mero quorum.

Fryor's circus loft for Napier by tho To Anau at noon to day.

Somo weeks ago tho City Council invited the trustee* of tho Mackelvio Art Gallery to placa their art treasures in the now Freo Library building until tho edifice intended for thoir pormanont accommodation has been erected. At last night's meet ing a lottor from Dr. Campbell was road stating that the Council's proposal would bo dealt with as soon as the trustees are placed in complete po?sotaion of tho Mackolvie bequest by tho executors of tho will in London. Ho also intimated that tho feeliDg of tho trustees was in favour of the wiehes of tho Council under conditions to bo arranged.

Ab tho ceilings of the passages of tho District Court building are in courso of being rfoaned and repaired, not only aro the unfortunate debtors attending tho Court '■whitewashed," but aUo thoir attendant solicitors and others. Gentlemen of small means should be careful that their clothes oxhibit no speck of limewhito for tho next few days, or they will bo looked on -with suspicion,

Tho programme arranged for tho I'on sonby Rowing Club concort at tho Ponsonby Hall to night ia on excellent one, nnd in cludes two selections by Impoy's Band.

"The Magistrate" still draws good bouses to the Opera House. It is certainly one of the funnioat comedies over produced in this city. Tho lust appearance of this Company in "Tho Magistrate " will tako place tomorrow night, when tho perform ance will be under the patronage of tho French Admiral and oflicera of the Du quesno.

Very correct and artistic photographs of the new Public Library building, to bo publicly opened to-morrow, hare boon taken by Mr F,. Willmott, of 253, Queen street. These photographs show to perfection the fine structure which ia a credit to our city, and they will bo on sale a: low prices, in a variety of sizes and Btyles, to-morrow. Many people will doubt lesa secure copies to send to friends at Home by the outgoing m»il.

The Sunny South Ministrels give another entertainment at Whau Lunatic Asylum to night for the benefit of tho inmato?.

Those interested are reminded of Mr Brame's lecture to-night in tho Temperanco Hall in connection" with tho Industrial As sociation, and having Bpecial reference to tho metal trades.

A fair attendance etill turns up at the tent at Surrey Hills. Tho subject last night was of great momont, the preacher's object boing to provo that spiritualism is not of God, but of tho devil. Its rise and progress were shown, and many Scriptures were produced to show that this state of things was prophesied to arise in our day.

The following teams have been chosen to play in cricket matches tomorrow: — Albert v. Britannia (No. 10 wicket.) — Albert: Ramsey, Kilfoyle, Head, Holland, Dickey, Colville, Brown, Baird, Johnston, Angus, Jaggs. Wanderers v. Parnell Grammar School (No. G wicket). —Tho fol lowing will represent the Wanderers: Payne (captain), Simpson, Stanton, Munro, Whelan (2), Allen, Clarke, Chappell, Black wood, and Farrell. Emergencies : Prosser and Bleakloy. The following will repre sent Auckland 111. v. Gordon 111. on Satur day next:-Carr, Fannin, Hall, E. F. Harris, Jervis, Ifworson, Laird, Macintosh, Twomlow, RawEOn, YarbDiough.

Mr Giles has removed to more commodr ious premises in Bhortland street, whore he st'll continues teaching writing, book keeping and shorthand in private or in class. Tho growing desire to have tho knowledge of Shorthand can bo judged by the number of pupils that are attonding.

The New York Lite Insurance Company is circulating, in pamphlet form, a vory pretty almanac for 18S7, and a copy has been sent to us. The Company belongs to the front rank of the most powerful lifo in stitutions in the world, and we feel sure its enterprise in extending its field of opera tions to this colony will be warmly anDrc ciated. *^ a

The tender of Messrs Bashan (£232H been accepted by the Board of EducJ for erecting teachers' dwelling house

Epsom,

In view of tho approaching cricket match with the Wellington team, the following sixteen local players have been chosen to go into practice:—J. Arnoil, W. B. Barton, W. Beard, W. H Hawkins, H. P. Kissling, D. Lynch, R McPhersm, A L. Meldrum, W. Meldrum, E. Mills, G. Mills, A. D. MacCormick, A. O'Brien, C. F. Reid, J. Teatro, and K. J. Yates.

In-referenco to "J.P.'s" complaint in our Wednesday's issue as to sanitary defects, we are requoated by tho Sanitary Inspector to remind our correspondent that Clause 296 of tha Municipal Corporations Act, 1SS(!, furnishes him with tha remedy he dosirea. If he, or anyono else, complains directly to Mr Goldio of any such nuisance as that referred to, tho matter will be promptly attended to.

Mr R, Logan has almost completed a handsome new cuttor for tho Timaru Naval Brigado. She is .'SO feet long, 9 feot beam, and 3 feet.'! inches deep, clinker built, and handsomely fitted out with gratings. She will pull 14 oars, and carry two French lug =.iila. The cutter is in Mr Logan's usual stylo, and will, no doubt, give great satis faction.

Mr J. W. Whito writes to correct a mis apprehension that may havo been caused by our description of tho now Hospital wards Ho states that though an archi tect, his duties in connection with the Auxiliary H spital wero confined to super vising aa clerk of worka—Mr H. G. Wade being tho architect, aa is well-known.

Tho Jubilee Cantata, "Britannia and Her Daughters," promises to ba a groat success. Over a thoueand tickets have hson issued, and the demand appears to be in excess of that number, so that full houses are ex pected for the three nicbts of Easter Mon day. Tuesday, and Thursday. St. James's Hall ia to ba decorated for iha occasion, and tho cantata will introdaco a great variety of character and cost uin*.

Tho Vivid will make her usual excursion trips to Rivorhcad to-morrow at 1 p.m. These rogular trips will no doubt prove of great interest to excursionists.

Mr Joaiah Martin shows at his studio somo photographs takon by him lately at Waitakorei and tho neighbouring Woat Coast. Tho foam effects uro remarkably boautiful.

The attendance at tho entertainment an nounced to bo given last evoning in connec tion with St. John's Wosloyun Church, on behalf of the organ fund, waj notaulliciently largo to justify tho promoters in proceeding with tho programme, and tho concert was adjournod till a future date. Those pre sent woro, however, ontortained with an im proviaod musical programmo. A case of very considerable intoroat and importance to tailors came beforo tho R.M. yestorday, tho Now /.oaland Tweod Com pany suing Mr A. Walker, of To Kopuru, for tho cost of a suit of clothes, which the defondant had refused to tako on tho ground that they woro a mi.itit. The ovidenco on both sidoa tonded to show that tha suit was a tight fit, but tho plain till' deposed that ho had offered to uiako any slight alterations if necessary, but defondant did not wish it, and had ex pressed his intention of taking tho auit. I'laintiff was anxious to get tho clothes tried on in tho presonco of the Court. This waa finally agreed to, but whon thoy woro put on the Magistrate declared that instead of being too small thoy wore too largo, and gave judgmont for defondant. Mr Moses, manager of thoTwood Company, immediately took the clothes down to tho office of our morning contemporary, and now issuoa n chullongo through our adver tising columns offering to pay £50 to any charity if Mr Walkorwill try on tho clothes in the presonco of any two master tailors in Shortland stroot and thoy do not doclare them a good lit. This proposal is ono that provon Mr Mo«os's confidence in his manufactures, and if accoptod, will put tho issuo to tho judgment of practical men

Tho local footballers aro in tbo awkward prodicament of having no ground on which to play during tho approaching reason, A special committee was appointed to inter view Mr Oilworth, but that gentleman posi tively refuses to allow his paddock at tho Junction to bo uecd, on account of the damage dono to tho trooa and hedgoa. Tho committeo reported at a meeting of the Rugby Union last night, but had no recora mondaHon to make, and tho hopo was ex pressed that tho committeo would be able to pocuro a ground bofore tho oponing of tho season.

A movement is on foot to resuscitate tho old Auckland Rowing Club. It has been in a moribund condition miico tho site of tho former shed noar tho broakwater was taken for reclamation purposes. An effort is now to bo made to securo a site to the westward of tho Queon-ptreet Wharf.

At n mooting of the Auckland Rugby Union delegates last evening, Mr Cotter presiding, tho lottcr rolativo to the pro posed visit of a New Zealand team to Now South Wales was referred to tho Managing Committco. Permission was given to tho Gordon Club to change tho Club colours during tho coming season to all block with gold monogram in shield on the loft breast.

Tho ferry «tcamers Britannia nnd Victoria will run to tho French man o'-war on Sun day aftornoon.

This week instead of advertising as wo usually do wo eimDly desire to mention tho fact that we have received b. lan?o Shipment of Priino Canterbury Bacon nnd Ohesto. Wo havo Butter—tho boct in Auckland. To rrako our rn-icea in koopinpr with tho dull times wo shall Eoll To-morrow at the following priops—Boat "■anterbury Bacon. M to 7d par lb : Cheoao, 3d to 51 : Fresh Unfer (unsurpassed in the colons). (3d to !)i : fpnrm Candles, 4.ii per lh. or C.b for 2a ; Tomato 3auce. 7d per bottln. ueual price. 1M ; Tea. tho very beat blond, la Ui rer lb. All plh'T things Cf|iiFilly cheap at tho Auckland Provision Coy.'s Newton Eacon Shop, Kdranua i'.&pe Road.—A. BBTTANY, Manager.

Wo understand that Earlo and Mont Koinory. KirnrtKiitiapc Road, havo secure 1 i Bhipmorjt of flr'tolosa new Oamaru potator* which they are now sellinc at 5s per cut, ii sacka.-(.\nVT,l

Mr Dampiur itaa a largo buyer a* tho auction *alo of Miss reutSLlicrg's Fnncy Wools, etc , last VVodncs.-lay.

ANNUAL ETING OF THE N.Z. STUD COMPANY.

The annual meeting of tho shareholders of tho Now Zoaland Stud and Pedigree Com pany took plnco at tho Company's office Shortland-street, this afternoon. Mr Thos. Mori in (Chairman) presided, and there were also present: - Hon. J. Williamson, Messrs J. M. Clark, D. Nolan, T. C. Wil liamson, James Russell, 0. B. Owen. Stovens, and J. Kirkwood.

Tho following report was submittod to the meeting:—

"Gontlotnen,— In reviewing tho past twelvo months' proceedings of thia Com pany, tlie following aro tho principal points which claim attention : -The purchaeo of Nordenfeldt. to tako tho place of Musket, andouryoarlingsnle in January, are matters of importance Your directors, aftor care ful nnd mature coneidoration, decided to add the son of Mu?ket and Onyx to thia Stud._ Tho yearling sale possibly exceeded the directors' expectation?, although they wcro cognisant of the fact that good pricos would bj obtainod for Musket stock. The directors propose oliortly to reduce tho liability of shareholders from the sum of £2 10s. per chare, which ia thoir present liability, to £1 per share, of which sum 10d shall bo dooinod paid-up. This resolution, if carried, will leave a liability of 10s. per share only. The financial position of the Company will then be (see balanco sheet

31st January, ISS7) aa against £18,129 capital paid up. Assets : Sylvia Park, Hill Paddock, Clydeedalo and thoroughbred horse stock, Tramway Company share?,and dobta duo to the Company, £60,193 18s 3d ; as against liabilities amounting to £39,450 lls. ; balance in favour of Company, £20,743 7s 3d. The directors desire tbo shareholders to understand the assets of tho Company have been valued with duo respect to the de pression existing in proporty of all classes, tho outlook for future operations on tho whole may be regarded as satisfactory. Tho Company ia now in a position to hold its own and make a profit for ita shareholders. Should our recently ac quired stallions make name* for them selvos, in a short timo wo would bo ranking as a dividend paying Company. The business to come Before the meeting is tho passing and adoption of the report and balance-sheet, election of three directors in tho places of Meesrs Morrin, Clark, and Firth, v/ho retire in accordance with the Articles of Association of this Company by cflluxiun of timo, but who ere eligible and olection of an auditor in place of Mr Milno, who rotire?, but offers himself for re-elec tion. By order of tho Board, Thomas Mokrix, Chairman, Auckland, March 25th, 1887."

A balance-sheet was atao submitted.

The Chairman, in moving the adoption tho report and balance - sheet, statod that tha condition of the animals *as the farm was very healthy, and the directors hoped to bo able to make the Com pany a dividend paying concern. The motion was passed unamiously, Messrs Tho3. Morrin, J. M. Clark and J. 0. Firth wore re elected directors and Mr John Milne was reappointed auditor.

Matthow Carrol hasibeon arrested on the ehargo of stealing a watch, value £10, at Waihclce.

Tl;o prisoner Egginton has beon commit ted for trial at Papakurn for the assualt on a gmndigger.

CABLEGRAMS.

THE WAR CRISIS.

Movements in Bulgaria and

Turkestan

London', March 24. Tiik Bulgarian Regonts are hastily sending troops to Bourgaa and Varna, but the cause for such action is unknown.

The Govornor of Turkestan is inciting tho Khans to closer alliance with Russia, pro mising thotn high offices in tho ovent of a war with India.

SCENES IN THE HOUSE OF COMMONS.

Civil Service Vote Obstructed

APPLICATION OP THE CLOTURE,

(SPECIAL CABLE).

London", March '22

A Lose sitting of tho House of Coramora was brought to a cloao at twenty minutes past one. Tho Irish party, finding that organised obstruction would not bring about an adjournment, cavod in, and every voto for the Civil Service was passed. Throughout tho night the Irish and Radical mombora leagued in violent ob struction, and membortj on tho Government sido who had gone homo were summoned by tho Conservative whips, mombora being called out of bod to re-a mo thoir places. When tho Conservative members returned it was ovident to the obstructionists that they had no chance of gaining thoir end, but they continued tho obstruction in tho hope that tho vote would be postponed. It was announced that tho Government intended sitting until tho votes had been parsed, and that it wes useless for the ob structionists to attempt to defeat thel.ovoru inent. Mr Übouchero, who took a promin ent load in the obstruction, threatened that if tho Government persisted ho would make thirty spoeehoa and move twonty amendments. However, if the Government would decode to tho demands of tho Opposition he offered to maintain silonco. Questioned as to what those de mands wero, Mr Laboucheco replied that they wanted to have the Civil Service Estimates postponed. The Government would not ogroo to any compromise, and stuck to thoir post for 34 hours. The cloture was enforced, although only pormitted by a narrow majority. lho motion to grant a voto of three and a half millions for tho Civil Service waa submitted. Mr Lauouchero tnovod as an amendment " That progress bo reported," and was sup ported by Mossra. Dillon, Soxton, and othor Irish meinbora. Mr Tannor, tho membor for Mid Cork, caused groat commotion by remarking, " I can aeo un honourable mombcr beforo mo drunk." The Speakor ordered him to with draw tho romark, and Mr Tannor, in order to tomporlso, addrossod tho Speaker, ask ing him, " Whom havo I accused ?" Tho Speakor explained that the expression was offensive if applied to any member, and ex ceoding the limit of Parliamentary debate. Mr Tannor then yielded At an early hour in tho morning Mr Soxton warned tho Government that a batch Of oleqnont Parnellitos had arrived, and besought tho Government to profit by the information. At half-past six Mr Leonard Courtney, Chairman of Commiteos, who had relieved tho Spookor some hours boforo, was replaced by Mr Cecil Kaikes. At seven o'clock tho lights wero put out, and soon after tho House divided on the question to report progress, which woe negated by 141 to 47. At nine o'clock Sir J. E. Gor«t relieved Mr Rnikos, A detailed discussion of the Civil Service by Mr Labouchore and some Irish mombors followed, and the Parliamentary warfaro continued, and tho obstructionist finding thoy woro playing a being gamo at length yielded.

Colonial Postal Rates.

Loxaotr, March 2± —Mr Cecil Raikes, Postmaster-General, replying to a letter of MrHennikcr HeatonV advocating the os tablishment of univerpal pcn.iy postage rate?, atates that tho Postal Convention precludes a rate of less than 2Sd. Tho ab olition of subsidies, ho declares, would ap ply to mails carried from English porte only, and would not affect those de livered via Brindiei or Naples. More over, subsidies were necessary to oneure regularity and speed in the delivery of mails. Mr Rnikea expresses himself in favour of persuading thoHo colonies who do not already belong to tho Postal Union to join the Postal Union, and thus effect a reasonable reduction in postal rates. The subject, ho etatos, will ioubtloss ho dis cussed at the forthcoming Imperial Con ference.

Another Attempt on the Czars

Lite

London", March 25.— It is stated that an attempt was made to up?ot tho train which convoyed the Czar to Gatschina.

More Irish Priests Arrested

The arrest of two more priests has been ordered in consequence of refusing to give ovidonco against bankrupt tenants.

Auckland Harbour Hoard

Loan

Tenders will bo rocoived up to tho 31st instant for tho loan of €100,000, at 5 percent., for tho Auckland Harbour Board. Tho minimum is fixod at par.

A Colonist and the Highlanders.

Mr James Sorvice, in addressing a meot ing of the Highland Socioty of London, ad vieod that tho colonies should be treated in such a way as to retain their nflection, when thoy wuulil become buttresses of the Em piro. The Knpnnda Disaster.

Thomatoof the Ada Molrnoro doelaroa that lights wore exhibited by that vesfol.

Loan lor Lauuccston

Tondors for tho loan of £150,000, at 4 per cent., for thomunicipility of Launceston, will be roccived up ,o tho 2Sth instant, Tho minimum in fixed at 97.

A Charitable Mayor.

Ciimstciidroh, thia day.

Tho now municipal buildings wore openod yesterday attornoon with a luncheon pro vidod by the member* of the City Council. It haJ been expected that tho Mayor would havo acted as host, but ho declined to do so, saying that he would, instead of provid ing a luncheon, give fifty tons of coal to the poor of Christchurch and suburbs during the winter. The councillors ac ordingly got up the luncheon, inviting tho Mayor, but ho do clined to be present. About sixty porsona wore proeent, including Sir John Hall, Hon. \V. Rol.'eston and Mr J. E. Fit* gorald.

Mr J. Morrison, of Devonport, North. Shore, Benda us an interesting account of his experiences with olive culture. He states :—" In the autumn of ISS3 thero was on exhibition at the office oi the Evening Star a box of olives grown by Sir George Grey at the Kawau, for tho purpose of show ing the adaptability of tho Auckland climate to tho propagation of tho olivo, and also inducing agrioulturista to devoto a portion of their lands to the culture of that profitable fruit. Tho trees from which those olive 3 were taken had to bo propped up to prevent their breaking from the weight of fruit. Being desirous of planting some olivo trees, and not knowing where to procure them (there being none in tho AucUlnnd nurseries then), I wrote to Sir Georgo Grey in May, ISS3, for information, who promptly responded, stating that ho did not know whore good trees could bo procured, but that in Sep tember following he could let me have 1C or 12 truncheons, from which, in a few years, an olivo yard could be formod. As an instance of the remarkable momory and kindness of Sir George, on September 25th 1 recoived ft note from him, stating thnt on tho morrow I would roceivo by the steamer Koso Casey, 12 truncheons of the best kind of olives. I duly received the trunehoons, neatly wrapped up and bearing my address, with instructions how to treat them, which 7 carried out witha successful result,asl now have many trees of vigorous growth from three to five feet high. The month of Sep tember h the proper time to lay truncheons. The mode of propagation from truncheons s as follows :—Lay each truncheon flat in tho ground and completely cover it with earth, two or threo inches deep. This will send up Revorol shoots, In tha planting ne'ason tho shoots might be removed from tho truncheon, and planted in placos prepared for their permanent reoeption. Olives, Sir George Grey sayp, do best in a good soil, They do not like shelter, and if put in a sheltered place in this climate, become coverod with a blaclc fungus. Thoy like tha full in fluenco of the sea breeze, and where so ex posed bocoine perfectly clean and free from fungus."

OPENING OF FREE LIBRARY TOMORROW.

The arrangements for tho formal opening of the nesv Free Library in Wellesley-street East are now complete, and the ceremony, which takes place to morrow afternoon, bids fair to live long in the recollection, of those who are privileged to witness it. That there will be a crowded attendance no ono can doubt, for the 1,100 invitation card? which were printod have long since been distributed, and there ie an un&atis ied demand for hundred", porhaps_ thou sands more. However, the limits of space are not elastic, and at the end of 1,100 the barrier remains. Last night tho Choral Society, under Herr Carl Schmitt,.bid their final rehearsal of the musical portion of the programme, and it passed off satisfac torily indeed, the conductor expressing himself highly pleased with tho acoustics of the hall, For the benefit of our readers wo proceed to sketch the pro gramme which is to be observed to morrow. The City Councillors and tho gentlemen who are to deliver addresses will assemble in the Mayor's room on the first floor at 2 o'clock, and at 230 they will proceed thence to the platform, whereupon ■ho ceremonial will bo at once oponed with the parformanco of "God Savo the Queen " (aolo and chorus) by tho Choral Society. His Worship tho Mayor (Mr Devoro) will then deliver the oponing address, which will be of on historical charactor. Tho Choral Socioty will follow with tho orchestral introduction to and oponing chorus from Mendelssohn's " Lobgesgang," aflcr which Sir Geo. Groy will dolivor an address. Thon como-i tho chorus "Vo Nations Offer," from tho " Lob gesang," and tho remainder of tho pro gramme will bo as follows : - Short addreja by Ex-Mayor Thos. Peacock, M.H.K. ; " March of tho Israelites "froir Costa's "Eli," Choral Socioty; short address by ex-Mayor J. M. Clark ; chorus of Israelites from Costa'n "Eli,'' Choral Socioty ; short address by ex Mayor W. It. Waddel ; Mendelssohn's " Cornolius " inarch, Choral Society's or chestra ; shoit address by Sir G. Maurice O'Korke (Speakor of tho Ifoure of Repre sentatives) ; "Hallelojah" Chorus from Handel's "Messiah." After this the Mayor, Councillors, and the visitors gene rally will proceed to the ' ibrary, whoro His Worship will "lay" the first book and formally declare tho institution to bo opon. Tno volumo selected for tho purpose is a book presented to Sir George Groy by tho late Prince Consort. Thip will end the ceremonial. Tho Councillor", and^the gentlemen who have boen accom modated;with seats on tho platform will then return to the Mayor's room to partake of hia hospitality, while tho members of tho Choral Society will bo treated to a refection in tho Council Chamber, whither they ara desired to repair at the close of the last chorus. Tho Committee room has been sot apart as a cloak room for tho ladies of tho Choral Society, and another cloak room (vi/., that given to tho Society of Arts, ju«t opposite tho stage ontranco) ha.i been set aparfc as a cloak room for tho geutlemon of the Choral Society. Tho programmo also invites a word or two of remark, for it is in itself a work of art. It is printed in colours upon rich paper, and will servo as a pleasing souvenir of a notablo event, besides forming ono of the neatest productions of typographical taste and skill over turned out in Auckland. As frontispiece the programme contains a first-olas* wood-cut of the Free Library building, whilo tho thin! page is occupied by on excellent portrait of Sir George Grey, to whose munificence the citizens of Auck land owo ho much. Tho third page gives the item-! of tho programme, and the fourth page bears tho words of tho .National Anthem.

HORRIBLE DEATH IN DELIRIUM TREMENS.

(nV TRMSGRAPH —PRESS ASSOCIATION'

Napier, Thursday. A REMARKABLE c.ise of death through delirium treiuenfl occurred at tho gaol last night Tho prisoner waa namoJ Douglas John Paraonugo,forme: iy intherclograph de partment at Wellington and Blenheim, bat lntely boots at the Maonie Hotel. He won £ 100 dividend in thetotulisatorat the Jockey Club's Spring Meeting, and since then he has gone on periodical " bursts " The last of these ended in delirium tremens, and he wag lodged iv gaol and brought before the lI.M. on a charge of lunacy, and remanded for medical uxamir-.ct-i.-.n. He was lodged in an ordinary cell, and shortly afterwards he became very violent, knocking bia head againet tho wall, and the prisoners shouted out that ho was knocking his brainß out His violent conduct continued until neatly midnight, when ho was heard lo fall on the floor of hia cell. When his cell was opened ho was found dead from the in. juries he had reosived. Tho jury added a rider to their vordict, " That a padded room should bo provided."

SPORTING NEWS.

To-Morrow's Races at Otahuhu.

Tmk Autumn Mooting of the Otahuhu Racing Club is fixed to tako place to morrow,and with fine weather will no doubt attract a good share of patronage. The Admiral and of!icers of tho French warship Duquesno have intimated to tho Club their intention of being prescnt,and in addition, thoir bra9s band will aleo be on tho ground discoursing selections throughout tho afternoon. A moat attractive pro gramme has beon put forth by the Club, while tho entrioe for each of tho events are unusually large. Since the last meeting, the steeplecha^o course has been altered so that an uninter rupted view of the raco can tako place, and tho horses will bo under the eyes of the spectators for the whole journey. This will no doubt bo greatly appreciated. The first. race is announced to start at 1 o'clock, and trains leave the Auckland station at 11.40 and 1.20 p.m. My selections for the load ing events arc : Racing Club Handicap : b'nako. Hurdles : Omata. Maiden Plato : Tamora. Steeplechase : Omata or Guy Fawkca. Railway Plato: Okato.

TARANAKI JOCKEY CLUB ANNI VERSARY MEETING.

The following acceptances and general entries havo been received for the above meeting, which takes place next Thursday and Friday : —

Taranaki Jockey CLun Handicap (2 miles). —Pasha, !)jt 411); Pearl, Bdt Sib ; Cinderella, "st 101b: British Lion. 7et Sib; Victory, 7ss 7ib ■ Kivulet, 7etslb; Cremoine, 7at lib; Armourer, "at.

Steeplechase — Blue Bell, lOst; Volcano lOst oib; Wideawake. 10a 71b.

Maidkn Platk.—Auotioneor. Peter Oabeck, Gntline, WobSjl, Ouy Kawkos, Harold, Ravens wood, KmnieU, Hlue 8011, and Hawthorne.

Flying Handicap - Pearl. Rivulot, Artist, Haßar, Victory, Toddy Yuillo. Pafiha, British Lion, end Cinderella.

Handicap Hukdlks — Auctioneer Peter Oabeck, Germali.e. Wideawake, Volcano, Jubllo?, and Blue Uoll.

At the sale of throughbred horses after tho conclusion of tho Napier raco meetings, Mr J. Munn bought a yearling by Pisca torious—Black Bess for 50 guineas, and a chostnut fitly by tho same horse, out of Ada, was knocked down to the nod of Mr W. Percival for 70 guineas. Owhaoko was paisid in at 300 guineas, and Mangaohane at 100 guineas. Pearl's engagements for twelve months were knoekod down to her trainor for 100 guineas. Poot went to Mr G. P. Donnelly'e bid of 20 guineas, Snap shot to Mr P. Butler at 00 guineas, Psycho to Mr J. Munn for 55 guineas, Erebus was bought by Mr Lunn for 105 guineas, and tho remainder of the horses failed to reach their reserve.

Tho Richmond Stakes, run at Nelson yestorday, was won Ly Spado Guinea, who carried 9dt 1 lib, and defeated Rumour, 7st 31b, by a head.

HII'I'ONA,

Tha following note from that well known writer upon fruitgrowing, Mr R. Allan v\ lghr, of Komata, is deserving the atten tion of nurserymen :—" I find that in cer taia districts where the orange and lotnon are extensively cultivated there are groat eomplainta of tho Auckland nurserymen j having introduced tho white cottony scale (Icerya Pur<-hwm),in conFequcnco of which 1 have inspected several »t tho nurseries mentioned, and am bound to say that their stock of euch trees are uncommonly clear An, however, this insect ia thick upon the auburban hedges and tho bushes on wa«te placßß, also in private gardens, whose owner 3do not soern awaro that it is the most deadly enemy of tho orcbavdist, it WOUid Bttom almost impossible to avoij sending it out with nursery treoo, and I would therefore suggest to nureefymeri, for their own eakoa, not only to wash such trees htjforo transmitting their., but to sjivo tho orchanlists eomo guarantee that they will do bo • Joy example, i 0 the:r advertisements in tho horticulturaliats special organ, the 'New Zealand Farmer' to whioh journal I would refer parties in terested for extended information as to this temblo post, and othors which your spaoo does not admit of dealing with here," >'

THE CITY WATER SUPPLY.

Its Freedom from Con

tamination.

At the meeting of the City Council last night, the following report was received from Mr J. A. Pond (Colonial Analyst) re tho rick of pollution to tho Western Springs from the nightsoil depot at Point Chevalier and from Martin's paddock :—

March loth, 18S7. Hia Worship the Mayor, Auckland.

g lßi _Herewith I have the honour to report on the subject of your request contained in a letter from the Town Clerk, dated the 9th mat., the following being the instruc tions '—"The Mayor would Uke you to visit the present nightsoil depot at Point Cheva lier • also Martin's pig paddock and en virons, and include in your report if you consider these places do, or are likely to foul our present water supply in any way whatsoever." In accordance with thia re quest I paid a visit early on the morning of the 12th inst. to Mr White's leasehold pro nertv where the nightsoil from the city is at present deposited. Tho ground where thia work ia being carried on is situated about half-a-mile due west of the pump ine works while the formation of the surface necessitates any drainage ending a speedy exit to a tidal atream which joins Edgecumbe's Creek. The mode of dealing with the night soil ia to run tho semi liquid material into a furrow, along which the cart ia drawn, while a plough closely following quickly turns the earth over tho material, and forms r furrow for the continuation of the work. When tho whole of tho material is thus dealt with lhe ground is harrowed ovor, tlma tiilin" up all intorstices. At the time of my visit tho material from Bye carts had thus boon dispoeed of, and I carefully examined tie ground in which it had been deported. The ground was an arenaceous clay and well calculated to provide ieidy absorption and to deodorize the material. Tho work had been well done with the ex ception of a few places where a dray had been permitted to cross the ground, and in the last furrow, where there was a lack of dry earth thrown over the deposit. Other than this, there was nothing to take excep tion to in the method of utilising the material. An ucpieasant odour was notice able immediately to leeward, but not to aoy great extent, nor could it bs observed at a distance of fifty yards. I examined all the ground over which night-soil had been deposited during the last six months, and only in one place, and that on the extreme western side of thoeatate, was there any ob strvod departure from thocare lately shown. Here, for a small extent, the etifi ground and shallow ploughing had only partially covered in tho deposits, and though thia occurred early in December, and deodorisa tion has long eiace taken place, I have ad visod remedial moasures to bo taken in re ference to this. Tho method foll»wod by Mr White of lowing down for a green crop before putting in grass is a very safe and correct method of dealing with ground manured in the rnanuer described. lam of opinion that in de.iling with tho night- Eoil us at present, S3 far at? ita utilisation, thoro if- no injury or risk tj the purity of our water supply, or dan!?or to the health of tho community. On the same day, 12th inst.laleo visited Mr Martin's grounds, and found tho cowshed and stables in a clean condition. On visiting the pig pad dock, I noticed the bony structure of several cattle, off which fowls and pigs were obtain ing what little flesh was adhering. I was also shown a large amount of meat in a boiler—tho fleshy portions of come of the skeletons lying around. However un pleasant to the eye.and disgusting as ia the idea of having to eat pork so fed, I cannot think this mode of dealing with ancient C3ttle can injure the water eupply. The small amount of fleshy matter and extent of filtration through tho coil entirely removes any rick to the wator. At the came time the ii=k of hydatid3 and ta'nia from eating pork which has been fed en raw flesh, is a matter for the consideration of those who indulco in the pleasure of eating pigs fo fed. The well oa this property is situated near the houeo, and i 3 fenced in and pro perly protected. The water was beauti fully clear, and to teats made at the time had only a trace of chlorine, and no trace of organic matter. The water was standing at a depth of 33 feet from the surface of the ground, and had baen sank in a depression which existed, and carried down through hard basaltic rock. Proceeding to the vicinity, I pmed through the Chinees garden, and found nothing which could in any way iDJure the purity of the water Eupply, and I consider the high stato of cultivation to which they have brought this ground greatly preferable to tho awampy ttate it was in before. I would rcpectfully call your Worship's attention to a very great nuisance, if not danger, in tho depotit of sweepings and rubbish eaid to be on Mr Faulder's ground, and over looking tho Chinese gardon. Here there is a largo amount of decaying vegetablo and other matter, with no covering of earth or nny pretension to disinfection. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient eorvant, J. A. Pond, Colonial Analyst.

It was resolved to have this report, as well as the report of tho analysis, printed, and they were referred to the Streets Commit tco in order to roport to next meeting.

PROPOSED AUXILIARY WATER SUPPLY.

Tho following report was also received from Mr W. Errington (Waterworks En gineer) : —

2S & 29, In3uranno Buildings, Auckland, March 24, 18S7. To P. A. Philip?, Esq., Town Clerk. Sir, —According to your memo, of the ICth inst., I have examined Edgecumbe's Creek with tho view to ascaitain the cost of con necting the water with our present supply, and beg to report as follows: —I find that at present wo can obtain 960,000 gallons per week, to pump which it will be necessary to placo a temporary pumping apparatus. The cost of the above, which could be fitted up in two days, would be (approximately) £130; this iocludea £70 for pipes which would have to be purchased, but would bo used afterwards for our ordinary service. The whole apparatus will cost £20 per week to work it, including hire of engine and pump, wages, coals, stoves, etc , or at the rate of sii per 1,000 gallons. Owing to the urgency of the matter, I have also ascertained that the apparatus is procurable, and would suggest that it be gone on with at once,

I have the honour to be, eir, Your obedient servant, William Errixgton, Engineer.

The Mayor remarked that this wa3 with out doubt a matter of urgency. At any moment the present water supply might prove insufficient. In view of that danger he yesterday instructed the City Engineer to caaee watering the etreoti", as there was only 4 foet of water in the Poneonby reser voir and only 10 foet in the Kyber Pass reservoir. After eorae discussion the report was referred to the Streets Committee, with powor to act.

ELECTRIC LIGHTING IN WELLINGTON.

(BY TELEGRAPH-OWN CORPEgPONDENT )

Wellington, this day. Ariicroit and Co., \Vollington, have made a proposal to tho City Council to light the city of Wellington by electricity at an annual cost of £1,250. The present ex penditure on gas is £1,800. Ashcroft and Co. calculate that at most £550 will be gained by substituting electricity for gas, while tho city will be infinitely better lit than at present. The Council are favourably disposed towards the propoeed scheme, which has bten reforred to a Com mitteo to report on. The above estimaca is based on the idea that steam will be used as a motive power. If water power be utilised, the annual cost will bo about £1,000 only.

A DUNEDIN HOTEL CASE.

(BY TELEGRAPH—OWN CORKESrQiTDENT.)

Dcssmn, thia -day. The action of Mr Fish, in adjudlp' d tmg on a casa in whidh a member of rhe Salvation limea BUggGstion that the Minister of S;^'*'',^™ will be r«m^i ?> r ° Tlmes. after stating that oomplQmant waa assaulted because ha was endeavouring to eava his father from got bZaSiS1 r/V 3801*"-8 t^t there had iV^»™ d'stlnct fall ur° of "stice, aeks how itnma to pass that Mr Fieh, out of'his 'Ogular turn, and not having been requested Bench 0 any°no eWB plaC °'Bat u P°n th«

WANGANUI NOTES.

(BY TELICIRAPH.—OWH CORRESPONDENT )

Wancasui, this day. With a view of having the natives shifted from the present camping-ground along the river bank, where their unaivoury habits cause a nuisance, the Chamber of Commerce are taking stops to erect some building for thorn to live in, especially during winter time. It ig generally recognised that the presence of natives is good for trade ; hence the desire on the part of business people to do something for their comfort before winter, and at the samo time secure the health of the town.

Abolition of Small Debts Courts.

The Chamber of Commerce were yester day going to discuss the abolition of recover ing debts under £20, but not being certain whether the bill was actually to be introduced, adjourned the discussion pend ing Mr Ballance's address, when he will bo aeked a question as to the intentions of the Government in the matter.

The Chamber intend calling attention to the fact that in inspection of machinery and sheep the Government make profit, which is considered equal to a tax on cer tain sections of the community.

OUR GOLDFIELDS.

(BY TELEGRAPH —OWN COBRESPONDENT.>

Thames, this Hay.

Cambria.— Th 9 footwall leader in the leading etope is being stripped, there now being about four feet exposed to view. The leader in the faca is between three and four inches wide. Crushing is shaping well.

Woodstock (Karangahako).—Hazlettand party, tributers, have arrived in town with uloz'i. of gold. Saxon.—Good colours of gold are seen in the quartz coming to hand, which Bhould be payable.

Specimens from the Cambria,

Cambria.—When breaking down leader in leading stope to-day 901b of specimens were obtained. The leader in the cross-cut also looks well, and produced 101b picked stone to-day.

THE WARSHIP DUQUESNE.

Why dial Saints Was Not

Fired.

(by telegraph—own correspondent.)

Wellington, thia day. On inquiry from the Defence Office in refer ence to the neglect to return the salute in> Auckland on the arrival of the French war* ship, I was informed that if tho Admiral had observed the ordinary custom of send ing ashore to ascertain whether the salute would be responded to, he would have learned that the usual Ralutcn could not be tired in this instance owing to the absence of the Per manent Artillerymen from their posta. The men, it appears, were then on their way from Wellington, after their several weeks' training in the handling of the big guns* The question is, however, asked here some* what pertinently, " Where were the Volun teers that they did not man their field pieces to acknowledge the foreigners* courtesy, as was done by the Wellington) battery on the occasion of the arrival of tho Japanese corvette some months ago 1"

"ROW" AT THE REFUGE.

At the Police Cowt ttwiay, Peter Finn, an old offender, was charged with the indictablo offence ot pausing grievous bodily harm to Alexander Bell, by striking him on the head with a stick. Ihe prosecutor and accused we inmates of th Old Men s Refuge, and it appeared from the evi dence that on the mo.rn.Uig of Friday last Finn was getting water f rom tne ap wnen Bell, in throwing water into the sink, splashed "i? boot?. Finn beloved that the splashing was wdfuily done and waylaid Bell on his way to |\is roofn, an 4 struck him on the head with a stick, causing dangerous injuries, Mr Walters, the master of the house, supported the evidence for the prosecution, and Knu charged him with having a grudge against him and threaten ing never to forgive Mm. Walters replied that this had nothing to do with the case. Ryan, another inmate, said he heard Finn saying ho would kill him if he could, Foe the defence. Finn asserted that Bell struck him three blows on the arm with a ho,nd basin. Dr Franklyn described the injuries inflicted on the complain ant, whom ho considered out of danger now. \\ alters was recalled at tho request of Swu and in reply to a question from the prisoner, said ho saw Bell with a bottle threatening to kill the prisoner; but he stopped him. Finn. who said in reply to tho usual chafiengo. that 801 l was the cause of tho row by throwing water on his,boots, was committed (or trial tQ the next emmftal sessions of the Supremo

POLICE COURT.-THIS DAY.

(Before Messrs S. Y. Collins and C. Ring, J.Pb.> to?t££tfKr Fqw porsons wero vmi3>^ Alleged Larceny, — CecU Goodi' charged with the larceny of a Sq}4^ '** was &, the property of Alfred MM •A t0V a\ ue appeared for the accused, awl■ H& **aple mand for a week, which y aakeA f°r nJE?" accused was also adwrttS -as granted. The recognizance?, ' w*www\ to bail in his own Throwing a IV ™_;, Nicholson was chas»- jG Overboard.—Frank do^Ui- tli¥q\rmi"- -e(l with cruelly illtreating a Heuhead in Aw?* -"■ overboard from the p.s. Bir \vas sufl'erii.' -'!' an<i Harbour while the saiddog peared • ■* fr°m sickness. Mr Brasaey ap the p- »"» behalf of the Society for !»«>(.' '"evention o£ Cruelty to Animals. JJ \, Jdant pleaded guilty, and at the san-.e time ." -ade reference to an article in one of the local papers, and asserted that the statements in that article were false. The dog was sick and mak ing a mess on board. He went twice round the boat asking if any of the people on board owned the dog. The owner was there, but she would not claim it, because it was sick. Ho was within three chains of the shore, and threw the dog into the water in Shoal Bay, and it reached the shore in four minutes. The article complained of asserted that he would do the same with an infant; but as a matter of fact he had jumped overboard and saved soven lives in three years. Mr Brassey said the pro secution was instituted in consequence of an article in one of the local papors. Very much was made of the matter and it was asserted that the dog was thrown over in mid-stream. As a matter of fact, how over, it appeared that the dog was thrown from the vessel close in to the beach in Shoal Bay, and from his knowledge of the accused he did not believe he would be guilty of a cruel act, The Bench said the case would be dismissed.— Mr Brassey: Of course your worships must re member that the defendant has pleaded guilty. —Mr Collins replied that the Bench considered, the case too trivial to call for punishment.

BANKRUPTCY.

A general meeting of the creditors in the estate of M. H. Roe, sawmill proprietor, Onehunga, took place yesterday after noon. Present : Messrs J. Howden, S. Vaile, Maclntyre, Patterson, Elling ham, Kayfcon J. Buchanan, J. Lamb, and C. W. Cave (the Official Assignee's solicitor), the bankrupt and Mb solicitor (Dr. Laishley); also Mr J. M. Alexander for Mr Patterson, and Mr Grey for the Official Assignee. Mr Cave said the meet ng wa3 called for consideration of certain tranßactionp, namely, certain ealeß in ex change for timber, after the deed of assignment and before the bankruptcy, Mr Lawßon, as Official Assignee, had no power to allow for those gooda supplied since the deed of assignment, as a act - off against the timber given by the bankrupt. Two test cases had settled that question. The Official Assignee bad of course power to sell them, but he preferred to recover amount instead. The claim for goods supplied against timber was £1,07-4 10s 2d, and the book d6bts amounted to £1,640. Mr Lamb asked what was the resolution passed at the last meeting. Mr Cave said they bad tried to arrange a deed of in demnity, but it had not succeeded. Mr Lamb eaid ho considered that the caee was becoming a lawyer's one altogether ; the creditors knew how to conduct their own business. The persons owning the estate could be sued for debt. Mr Grey aaid that eevoral creditors bad refused to be bound by the resolution passed by the pre vious meeting. Mr Cave pointed out that in epito of Jlr Buchanan undertaking to get tho indemnity deed signed only one creditor had done co. Dr. Laiahley, considering that thore was no ex planation made yet as to the business of the meeting, said that the object was to consider the sum of £1,074, debts legally charged against certain pereons for timber, which he declared was inequitably charged f jr. He said if those debts were put up for competition they Bhould be allowed to, and he hoped they would, purchase them for leea than 20s in the £. If they paid 1b in the £ for them, there would be a saving to them of 19j in the £. Mr Lamb then moved "That the Official As signee bo instructed to sell the book debts in the estate by public tender." Mr Grey Faid that if the debts were realised thoro would be abut £1,000. The dividend would then bo 3a 6.1, but he thought Is or Is 6d more like it. Tho motion was put and carried. The next meeting will taka placo on April 7th, when the tendera will be considered.

TffE AUCKLAND EVENING STAft, I'jRIDAY, MARCH 25, 1887.



DR LEGER BRSON, of Otahuhu, bef?9 to intimate to his patients and friends that on and alter the 28th Instant, he will carry on the practice of hia profession at the house formerly ocenpled by the late Dr. Goldsbro. Paraell. DR. J. MURRAY MOORE, M D., M.R C.B. Hour* for Consultation: 11 to pm. at Pond's Homoeopathic Pharmacy. 153, Queen-street; 2 to 3 p.m., and 7 to 8 p.m., at Residence. Lower Symonds street. Telephone 130. Vaccinations at Pond's, 1 p.m., TUESDAY and FRIDAY. W. J. H URST * C a B. J, E3AM and A. H, GRAINGHB having purchased from the Public Trustee (the Executor under the Will of the late W. J. Hurat) the Goodwill, Stock-in-trade, Book Dobta, etc, of the old-estsbllflhed business of W. J. Hurst and Co., Grain, Scad. Produce, and Artificial Manure Merchants, will trade nnfior tho same style and name, and will continue the business as heretofore. All Outstanding Accounts are requested to be paid forthwith. W. J. HCBST S!CO. ON SALE, SHED - New Season's Clovers and Natnral Grasses Bye Grass and Cocksfoot (In variety) Turnip and Mtmgold Seeds MANURES— Bonedußt (One and i-lnch) Saperphosphates (various gradea> Nitrate ot Soda Sulphate of Ammonia Potasb. Kalnet. etc, eta. Peruvian Guano GRAIN- Seed and Feed of all description* Flour, Oatmeal Bran, Sharps Tabia and Coarse Salt Table Potatoes &c, &c, tea, W. J. HURST & CO., QUEEN-STREET, AUCKLAND. jjjjj}PERAMBULATORS TO BE SOLD AT A O-RE-A/T SAOEIFIOB. » CASH /Q? , s^lie / sy // // v / y/A 74y BARGAIN. Finding wo have 220 Perambulator in Stock, we have decided to clear ou 100 of them at prices unheard of in Auck land before. ENGLISH, AMERICAN, & GERMAN Garlick & Cranwell. HOU3E FURNI3HKKS, QUEEN STREET. AUCKLAND. THIRTY THOUSAND YARDS OF T\RBSS -jyTATERIAL, To be sold AT GREATLY REDUCED PRICES. H. ATKINS HAS MARKED DOWN THE PRIDES or SUMMER DRES3 MATERIAL 20 CO 30 pub Cent. There Is a Splendid Stock still left to select from, and the Reductions will be found to be Genuine. BLACK and COLOURED SILKS will also ba sold at a Reduction In Price. A Few Pieces of Magnificent Quality BLAOK SILKS, to be sold at English Prices. An Overstock of UMBRELLAS. SUNSHADES, eto., to be sold Cheap. The Balance ot CARPETS (about 1,600 yards) to be oleared at cost and under. A Large Stock of LONG CURTAINS. TABLE LINEN. SHEETING, BLANKETS, QUILTS, and MANCHESTER GOODS. Best value In Auckland. A Splendid Stock of KAIAPOI CLOTHING, In Boys', Youths', and Men's; Splendid Value; Cheaper than Imported Clothing. MEN'S MERCERY, SHIRTS, SCARFS, UMBRELLAS, &o, ALL GOODS TO BE SOLD AT PRICES TO MEET THE TIMES. H. ATKINS. "/GOLDEN GEM" FLOUR Jr and "XL ALL" OATMEAL Are th» beet brands In this market. TRY THEM. ALFRED JOWI TT, SOLI AOENT. W. S. L AUWI • C a OUBTOMB AND STANLKY-BTRBET& Seed and Manure Merchant* Bonednst Manufacturers Aicents for Peruvian Government Guana Importers of Fonolng Wire, Sack*, Wttt Packs, eto. I Cash Purchasers Of Bout



CHALLENGE. N.Z. TWEED CO. V. ALFRED WALKEB. 1 hereby challenge Mr Alfred Walker, of Te Kopnru, to try on in the pr«sencß of any two Master Tailors in Shortland-street the Snit of Clothea produced in Court yesterday, and agree to forfeit to any public charities the sum of £50 if such Suit should be pronounced a misfit; Mr Walker to forfeit the same sum shonld they be pronounced a tit. The Suit and £50 ate now!ln the hands of proprietors of ths " N.Z. Herald." JO3KPII MO3ES. Managor of New Zealand Twood Co., Shortland-streot, Auckland. March 25,1887.