,i| e jlcConnell who has so ably dis- Co n T t ],o duties of watch house keeper charpea si( jerable time past, has been for « 0 " e j t0 take charge of the Ponsonby »pP°Tin the stead of Constable Graham, dis trlC un dersband, is to come into town. hie McConnell, during his stay in teh-house, has performed his duties tb ost painstaking manner, and he had '"rX way with him which usually won i* , ~t s of the most coniirmed sinners, tW be \ e t ij era even civil and tractable to W°® re niarkable decree. He will cer- be missed by all who had business ta -( tune to take them to the police station, K°ll will no doubt find many friends in Tiff sphere of labour. T consequence of the death of the late . Robert Garrett, one of the partners in k well-kn° wll fi"n of Garrett Bros., the ■ tors liave 01-dered tnafc fclle whole tf 1 of colonial and imported boots and S S must b-3 sold at such prices as •II effect a speedy clearance. Messrs r rrett Bros, have for many years manu- Ga f rori the whole of the leather used by 'f 7 a n d. can confidently offer suitable S at clearance prices. Tha Ope ra House was again crowded last •hi to witness the second production of f.flarbour Lights," by Mr George Leitch d his Company. The play is an in f !„ sensational one all through, and the rimy showed themselves fully equal to tke task of interpreting the various passions tto them by the playwright Mr Leitch as extremely diverting as Tom Dossiter, lie comic but faithful quarter-niasteu who i order to secure the hand of Peggy undertakes to colled, the bad 3 o fher mother. Mr Leitclrs perform "was one of the richest and most Sistic pieces of low comedy acting ver seen here, and he received quite 'I ovation after each act. Mr J. u on t<romery as Squire Morland gave good rendering of ti bad character, wbueMrF. Stanmaur, as the cousin of the Lire, made a sufficiently disagreeable fharae'ter, and brought down the hisses of the house by his villainy. Mr H. C. Sydney lave the character of Lieutenant Kingsley jcapifcal and spirited rendering, being the onen-hearted sailor to the life. Miss Alice Norton, as Dora Vane, did her part to per fection, and Miss Emilie Brown, as the un fortunate Una Nelson, did full justice to a difficult part. All the other charac terswere capitally rendered, and went as smoothly and as successfully as the most captious critic could desire. The meat-tinning company which Mr Qldham has promoted, is erecting- works nt fat«a, Taranaki, which will soon start ooerations. Mr Oldham has informed one offche guarantors of the Meat Company flat, from correspondence lately recsived by him, he has reason to believe that he either is or will be the successful tenderer for a large French contract) for tinned meat. He tendered to supply half th« quantity asked for, and a Queensland firm tendered for the other half. If half the total contract falls to Mr Oldham, his hands nil be full for two years to come at the rate of supply guaranteed. Should the Queensland firm not take up its tender—a tot improbable contingency—then Mr Old lam expects to be offered the right of taking up the contract in full. This would appar ently necessitate his extending the size of his works and the whole scope of his under taking, -

One of the largest meetings ever held in tkTemperance Hall, Otahuhu, took place on Friday last, when the sailors from H.M.S. Raven paid an official visit to the XilJDesperanduin Lodge, No. 6, 1.0. G.T. They were accompanied by the Grand lodge officers and a large number of visi tors from the town lodges. The hall was crowded to excess, and their visit resulted inamost enthusiastic meeting. Bro. W. Gib,.Cunnold, W.C.T. of the local lodge, Mviflg reported a steady increase in the iwnber of members, Bro. J. Jenkins, G.W.C.T., delivered a stirring and interest ing address, urging on the members in their work. Ho was followed by Bro. Hill, P.G.W.G.T., Bro. Bailey, G.W.S., and Bro. Norman, W.L.D. of tho Guard of Hononr Lodge. A long programme was to gone through, during which refresh ments were served round and two hand some bouquets were presented to the teniplar tars, one from the brothers and one from t\e sisters of the local lodge. At the dose of the meeting, the sailors heartily cheered the Nil Desperandum Lodge and wished its members every success.

The Waikato "Saurian," after a very ratable career, lost its valuable head in a ffidstunexpected manner last evening. The monster had been on exhibition for several dap in., an otherwise unoccupied shop in Victoria-street East, having been rented by Messrs E. Dawes and S. Chatfield from fers J. \V. Graham and W. Xewriek at acoetof £4 per week. The monster was insured for £25 in the Colonial Office, and tiisappears to have been a wise precaution, forawrat 8 o'clock last evening a lire or; cured in its temporary habitation and it? Wandehouklersdisappeared in the flames. He proprietors had left the premises about '■30 p.m. and left a kerosene lamp sus pended over the monster's head. On re turning half an hour later they found the ooiiding full of smoke and the head of the Wiinet saurian in flames, tho fire having latently been caused by the lamp falling, "lefirewas speedily extinguished and be y°nd the damage mentioned veiy little ijory'was done.

We draw the attention of our readers to of the entertainment to be Wato-morrow evening (in aid of Bt Barna- W church choir funds) in Waite's Hall, Mount Eden. It will be seen that some of owbeet local talents nre to take part, in trading Mrs Revitt, a lady well-known in innsical circles. Mr Boak, the well known elocutionist is also to assist and we trust to ««the hall crowded to the doors.

Mr It. Gray, o fthe firm of Messrs Reid Wray, agricultural implement manufac •wn, Dunedin, who attended the agricul j™Bhofl(sin ; Wairarapa district in. the Iterate of their firm, gave a trial of their Patent mole drain plough, on the Lans %?e estate on Saturday, at the re m of Mr H. Williams and others in terested. Mr Gray soon had the plough ™> eight horses attached, in the ground, «»jmencing with a drain 12in deep "a increased the depth to 20in in a most manner. The ground was %warde opened out in several places, perfect under-ground drain was dis *W, already carrying away the water, was sj satisfied with the re """■thafe-he at once became the purchaser. trophies presented by Mr Leftch to various Volunteer corps in and during the production of ■ * great military spectacular drama of Human Nature" are on view in the 2» of Messrs Kohn, jewellers, Queen -2 The trophies are well-chosen, and '°%of .the ownership of the Volunteers for them.

gS permission of Lieutenant - Colonel commanding the District Mahon, officer com- SWI! the 3rd BataUion, the Newton y an a the Royal Irish Volunteers, as ."« many other of the Auckland corps, i,n to assist, and will take part yfPjnd- production of the great; Drury and military drama of i ort" 14 ? Mature "at Abbott's Opera House T'tyevemng next. of the concert to be criven Pooler* private band S rßin another column.and is of stoning ■"Witt* J* Ea S le win be brilliantly ttteite 6 - "y ttle electric light, and a large ia expected. Ample precau i .'.overcrowding have been ' "y the management. tweed euits at 47s 6d, at aiU «lCaughey' 8 .-(Aj)VT.)

STAR CHRISTMAS COMPETITIONS.

THE PRIZE AWAK»S.

Some ti mo ago the proprietor of the Star offered prizes for a series of literary com petitions, open to readers of this paper, and as the awards of the arbitrators are now to hand, we are enabled to publish the names of the prize winners in the several competi tions.

No. 1, Christmas Tales.—For Tales not exceeding in length three columns of the Star, having special reference to Christmas-time, and having the scene wholly or partly laid in New Zealand, ■fcirst Prize, £3; second Prize, hand some Volume on New Zealand value £2. The first prize is awarded to Mr Abthut. VVe&iyss Hoksbbogh, of Parnell, for a story entitled " James Turner : a Christmas Komance." The second prize to Mr Chas. Rhoades, ot Vermont-street, Ponsonby. The third and fourth places in the com petition were occupied respectively by stories by "Esperance" and "Rectie." Upwards oi sixty stories were sent in for this coo-petition. No. 2, Ladies' Competition.—For Tales not exceeding two columns of the Star, written by ladies only, and having for subject the love, devotion, self-sacrifice, or heroism of woman First prize, £2 ; second prize, Handsome Illustrated Book.

The first prize has been awarded to Miss J. Outhwaite, of Park Road, for a story entitled " A Christmas Letter." The second prize has been awarded to Mrs Harris ("Jenny Wren "), Thames, for a story entitled, " Silver Spray." The third and fourth places in tho com petition are occupied respectively by stories by Mrs Wbitcombe, of Eden Terrace, and Miss Susie Patterson, also of Eden Terrace. [There were 34 competitors in thisclassand the majority cf the stories where of a very high degree of merit. In two instances, however, the arbitrator detected barefaced plagiarism.]

No. 3, JuvBXTi.E Competition.—Open to boys or girls under 16 years of age, for the best descriptive sketch of New New Zealand Travel or Scenery; and for the oest narrative of New Zealand life and adventure (true or fictitious), each in length about one column of tbe Star. Descriptire sketch: Ist Prize, Handsome Book on Maori War (illus rated), £2 ; 2nd Prize, Handsome Book, 10s. Nan-alive: Ist Prize, Handsome Book on Maori War (illustrated), £2; 2nd Prizo, Handsome Book, 10s. Isabella Minme Porter, of the Girl's High School, wins tho firyt Prize for the Descriptive Sketch, and Charles H. Sicud- DERj of Surrey Crescent, the second prize. Claka C. Firth, of Clifton, Mount Eden, wins the first prize for the Narrative; Ethkl Bell, of Mount Eclen, second. Commended : O. W. A. Watkin, "Chronicle" Ofiiso, Whangarei, Graco Whitelaw, Ponsonby.

No. 4, Conundrum Competition.—For the best Christmas Conundrum. Prizo, a Handsome Volume.

The Prize has been awarded to T. L. White, Auckland Club.

No. 5, Humorous Competition.—For tho best Original Humorous Anecdote of New Zealand Experienceand Character, not exceeding in length GO lines of Star News type. Prize, a Handsome Book. The prize has been awarded to Tuoan 8 Shaw, Riverhead.

The Prize Stories, etc., will be published in a special Chp.ist.mas Supplement of tho Stah, on Saturday, December 24th.

NEW ZEALAND RADICAL REFORM LEAGUE.

TnK ordinary meeting of the above Asso ciation was held in the Excelsior Hull on Monday evening last, Mr Farnall in the chair. The secretary being absent un avoidably, Mr F. Judson was appointed secretary pro tern. After confirmation of minutes and election of now members, the consideration of the meeting waa given to the manifesto upon the Land Tax, drawn up by a sub-committee appointed for that purpose. The members heartily approved of the tenor of tho manifesto—but decided that before being published as express views upon that important subject—it should bu referred back to the committee for sucli alterations as will show in what manner the community will be all'ected by the imposition of the tax. The following resolution, of which notice of motion had been given, was unanimously agreed to :—" That this League learns with re«ret that it is the intention of the Go vernment to form a Railway Board, and import a railway expert to place at its head, and would direct attention to the fact that a Parliamentary committee, in 1886, reported, among other findings, ' thafa although the system now in force is similar to that in the United Kingdom and its dependencies, and is well administered, it is nevertheless not satisfactory as _a system." This Association, therefore, in the strongest manner, condemns the ap pointment of a board to still further develop this system, and believes the result can only be to perpetuate a vicious railway policy and entail loss upon the country Se rrwa/resolved that a copy of the fore going resolution be sent to each member of the Cabinet. As the lateness of the hour precluded consideration being given to several other notices of motion upon the order paper, the meeting was adjourned to December 19th. All Parliamentary papers received by the League, are open to anyone for inspection on .application to Mr F. Jeu"^

SPORTING NEWS.

NORTHERN JOCKEY CLUB SUMMER MEETING.

The following nominations have been re ceived for the above meeting :—

Trial Stakes. — Wab Tyler, Una, Squire, Weazel, Totara, Prince, Beeswing Bluebell, Te Aroha, No Name. Hurdles. -Dandy, Woodpecker, Wat Tyler, Traveller, Kangaroo, Trovatore, A ?fK r HSmcAP.-Wat Tyler, Squire, WeaS Barb, Totara, Prince, Kitten, B S in |«- Woodpecker Wat Tyler Squire, Barb, Totara, Prince, Traveller, Hawthorn, Kangaroo, Trovatore, Scout,, fcWn, Beeswing, Bluebell, Te Aroha. _____,_—--—— ■ -

N e i S on Education Board haw resolved, nn the motion of the Bishop of Nelson, that on the mouoi h& ehare<ed on a small stamp tax amuse ment, bazaars, tIC ; nions and the totalisators,. the pro- to educational P urpo S e,

THE MINISTERIAL CRISIS.

GOVERNMENT VICTORY-

A MAJORITY OF TEN

YESTERDAY'S PROCEEDINGS.

[BY TELEGRAPH.—OWN REPORTER.]

Wellington, this day. The developments which have followed the reverse suffered by the Government on the Representation Bill kept the lobbies in a state of excitement all day yesterday. The gravity of the situation was shown by the very large attendance at the caucus of the Government party, and by the zeal with which the Opposition whips were working to secure a confirmation of the defeat. The Premier was blamed by some of his own supporters for making this a party question, but the majority are convinced that a determined stand had at last become imperative. There .are a number of mem bers insincere in their hustings retrenchment pledges. They were very strong before Major Atkinson took office in insisting on " drastic " retrenchment, but could hardly have expected that he would have brought down such sweeping measures in such a short period. Now that he has done so he declares every one must be given effect to or ho will retire from office. The attitude which he took up yesterday morning has certainly strengthened the position of the Government with the House. The Caucus. The crisis being now at an end, there i s no necessity for me to amplify the outline given yesterday afternoon of the proceed ings at the Government caucus. In view of the present position of parties, the names of those present at the caucus will be in teresting to your readers :—Pyke (Chair man), Beet-ham, Pearson, G. F. Richardson, Whyte, Izard, Wilson, T. Thompson, R. Thompson, McArthur, Buchanan, Moat, Dodson, Fisher, O'Conor, Ormond, Hodg kinson, Fergus, Rhodes, Allen, Russell, Scobie McKenzie, Barron, Cargill, Hobbs, McGregor, Jackson, Graham, Withy, Monk, Marchaut, Fulton, T. McKenzie, Seymour, Goldic, PeacocU, Cowan, Bruce, Valentine, Hamlin, Ross, Taiwhanga, An derson, Alitchtiliion, Russell, Tanner, Atkin son, liislop, Menteath, Taipua. Further Consideration of the Bill. The consideration of tho Representation Bill was resumed in Committee immedi ately upon the assembling of the House in the afternoon. All the galleries were well filled, and tho members were presont in full force. Consideration of the objection able amendment was deferred till tho re mainder of the measure had been disposed of. The first division was taken on the I proposal by Mr Seddon that the bill should not be brought into operation until after the next census of tho population had been taken. This was rejected by 40 to 28. Xnoveaso of Four Members. The Premier then moved, "That the number of members should be 74 instead of 70, four of those being natives." This amendment was proposed in accordance with a promise made to Mr Peacock at the caucus. Tho intention of tho amendment was to secure thut the two islands might be properly represented in proportion to their European population. That proportion was as 4-7fchs to 3-7ths, and it was therefore considered desirable to have tho number of European members divisable by seven. Seventy was, therefore, considered to be tho most suitable. This amendment was carried by 49 to 29. Town Versus Country. This question was again rai&ed by Mr Walker, who moved that the quota for city electorates in Auckland, Wellington, Christ church and Dunedin, should be double the number of those in all other electorates. Unless this was done ho thought the cities would have far too much power. The Pre mier urged the withdrawal of the amend ment, as tho time was not opportune to deal with the quota, Ho agreed entirely that the country should have a larger proportionate representation than towns. Mr Bruce also urged that the amendment bo withdrawn, as the country members had been moving in tho matter and were satis fied with tho promise from the Premier that an opportunity would bo given next session co consider tho question of quota. Mr Walker therefore withdrew his amendment, and Mr J. B. Whyte abandoned another amendment of which he had given notice, providing for the increase of allowance in tavour of countiy districts from 18 to 25 per cent, Mr Seddon took up this latter amend ment, and it was negatived by 48 to 14. More Svoao-waUtng. The stonewalling taction were again re sorted to, and nearly two hours wasted in discussion of the proposal by Mr Seddon, that progress &ho v Id be reported and that the .Speaker should leave the chair. Both were negatived, by large majorities, but not until Messrs Seddon, Walker, Samuel, and others had thoroughly wearied the House. Mr Seddon then took his departure from the Chamber, and during his absence the House negatived, by 47 to 19, his amend ment, that the bill should nob come into • force till the boundaries fixed by Commissio7ier.y' description thereof had been laid on the table of the House, fixing the boundaries. Dr. Fitchett made an attempt to have a proviso inserted in Clause 3 call ing on the Governor to direct the Commis sioners to map out the new boundaries within six months. The proposal was op posed by the Premier, Messrs Fish and R, Reeves, on tho ground that an accession, of population to the colony before next general election might be expected, and that it was therefore inadvisable to fix the boundaries at present. The amendment was negatived by 48 to 25. Mining Electorates. The fact that the country members did not choose at tho present stage to insist on their rights, so far as increasiog the quota ts concerned did not deter Mr Seddon from endeavouring to get special considera tion for the goldlields districts. He moved that the percentage in such districts should be increased from 18 to 25 per cent. Mr Taylor expressed a hope that no special facilities would be given to goldfields dis tricts. Mr Seddon again resorted to ob structive tactics and talked of nothing in particular for more than an hour, the bell being frequently rung to,secure a quorum during that period. Amalgamation of City Electorates. A new clause, having for ita object the amalgamation of electorates of Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland, was proposed by Dr. Fitchett, who said that in Dunedin there was a great feel ing of dissatisfaction regarding the present system of ward representatives. The Premier said he could not accept the amendment, which was inopportune at the present time, bub promised that an oppor tunity for careful consideration of the ques tion should be given next session. W essrs Downing, Stewart, and Allen, Dr. Newman, Messrs Seddon, W. P. Reeves, and Mills spoke in support of proposal, but in conse quence of the Premier's statement that the present time was inopportune for passing the clause, Messrs Mills and Allen said they should vote against it. The amendment was rejected by 44 to 12. Tho Party Fight. The fight on the party question, com menced at one o'clock this morning, when the Premier moved the recommittal of clause 2, in order that he might move to strike out the amendment inserted on the previous night, which Government declines to accept, and which delays operation

of the Bill till October, 1889. Ob jections were raired that new busi ness could not be taken after 12.30 a.m., but the Sjieaker overruled the objection on the ground that this was not new business. Mr Downie Stewart ap pealed to those who supported his amend ment last night not to do him the injustice of reversing the decision. He now avowed that he had never looked on the question as a party one or hostile to the Government. Mr Menteabh explained he was not aware that the question was a party one, and while he was firmly convinced of the desirableness of the amendment, he never dreamt that its adoption meant the destruction of the Go vernment. As it would have such an effect, he would choose the lesser of two evils, and support the Government. Dr. Fitchett and Mr Reeves were somewhat severe on Mr Menteath's action. Mr Scobie McKenzie eaid the chance they had wan between the breaking up a party that was doing good work in the way of retrenchment and the re turning those who had honey-combed the country with political jobbery and de moralisation. He would not walk out of the House when the question was put so as to embarrass the Government. Mr Moss said ho was in the library when the question was put on Tuesday night, but if he had been in the House he would have voted with the Government. He wished to see the number of members reduced to 70, but did not.wish to see tho change effected at the expense of the towns. He would vote for recommittal.

GOVERNMENT VICTORY.

Yesterday's Vote Reversed

The following is the division taken this morning on the motion for striking out the "words Bth, October, 1889," inserted in the Representation Bill on Mr Downie Stewart's motion and which occasioned the Ministerial crisis:— Ayes : 29. Atkinson Anderson Allen McGregor Barron (teller) Mills, J. Bruce . Mitchelson Buchanan Maoarthur Do:lson Mckenzie (teller) Fisher Monk Fergus Pearson Fulton Rhodes Goldie Seymour Graham Tanner Hislop Thompson T. (Auck- Hislop land Norch) Jackson Tarwhang-a Lawry Thompson (Marsden) Wilson Noes 16. Blake Feldwick Fraser Gremmond Guinness Jones Joyce Lance Larnach Loughrey O'Callaghan Seddon (teller) StewartW. D. (teller) Taylor Walker Ward Pairs. For. Against. Ormond , Smith Whyte Turnbull Richnrdson, G. F Samuel Withy Grey Boss Ketr Izard Fitchett T. McKenzie W, P. Reeves Moss . Kelly Russell Duncan Hall Ballance Carroll Vogel Moat Percival O'Conor Steward Cadman Fitzherberb Taipua McKenzie Bcetham J. Fish Peacock Richards Pyke O'Levestam Cowan Buxton

Effect of Reduction of Members.

With seventy-four members the quota wil] be raised from 7,089 to 9,215 persons- Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin and Christ, church, suburban electorates will each lose a member in consequence of the reduction of members. Tho "Post" on tho Crisis. The " Post" waxes very wrath over the crisis. It says, " The House has submitted to be browbeaten and bullied into stultify ing itself by reversing a very proper deci sion, it had come to the previous nighfc as to tho dato in which tho Representation Act is to come into force. We decline to be lieve that the PremiereverseriousJvintended to fulfil his threat about resigning if the House had remained firm and refused to ensure his tenuro of office for the next three years, and with this act on the Statute Book Major Atkinson will be completely master of the situation. Bounce has suc ceeded admirably, and the Vogel bogey has been used with triumphant success to frigbtenmembersoutoftheir witsandinduce them to play into the hands of the Premier. Powers absolutely fatal to their own individual independance and that of the body they form portions of.

THE DROWNING CASUALTY.

BODY FOUND.

The Water Police this morning received in formation from one of the crew of the ferry steamer Tongariro, that the body of a man had been seen round the shore at North cote. The Police at once proceeded there, and discovered on the south side of the breakwater above the Northcote Wharf the body of Walter Begg, the man who has been missing since last Monday week. The body, which was in a very advanced state of decomposition, was removed to the morgue, where it awaits the inquest, which will be held this afternoon. On examining the body two halfcrowns, two tokens, one penny, a penknife, a pipe, a piece of tobacco and a watch were found in the pockets. It will be remembered that Begg was at Northcoteon Monday, the 30th of November, with some friends who were on a drinking bout. He left the Northcote Hotel at 8.30 that night, in company with two other persons, but was lost sight of between the hotel and the ferry steamer. It was thought at the time that he had fallen over the embankment, but though the water police used every endeavour they were unable to find any trace of him.

AN UNSEEMLY SQUABBLE.

EDUCATION BOARD V. SCHOOL

COMMITTEE,

(by telegraph—press association.)

Wellington, this day. At the Education Board to-day, a rather peculiar case was considered. The Kai warra School Committee, disapproving of the action of the Board in retaining the master ofthe school, until Christmas after notice given him to retire had expired, closed the school, refusing to allow the master to have charge. The Board in structed the Chairman to institute legal proceedings if the committee refuse to hand over the key to the Board.

An entertainment will be given on Mon day evening next, in the Newmarket Hall, by the Mississippi Juvenile Minstrels, when a varied and amusing programme will be presented. A select dance will close the evening's amusement.

WAITOTARA ELECTION PETITION.

(BY TELEGRAPH —PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Wanganui, this day. At the hearing of this case yesterday, evi dence for the defendant was called as follows:—Walter Symes proved an inter view with the respondent, McLean, after the declaration of the poll, when the latter obtained a sovereign from the respondent. Muldroke was examined as to an interview with McLean on the subject of this sovereign, when the latter told witness that lie had borrowed the sovereign from respondent. Muldroke corroborated the statement of the previous witness as to the connection of the bush falling contract, the alleged promise of a section to the man Bright, and the lending of a cow to Mason, which was a common practice after calving , . This was also proved by another farmer. A number of other witnesses denied drinking with the alleged agents on polling day. Mr Travers addressed the Court for the respondent, occupying nearly tiv* hours in hia address. Mr Bell, for the petitioner, addressed himself to charges of bribery and treating, the only two general charges re maining. The addresses of counsel lasted till half-past eleven last night, when the Court adjourned till Wo o'clock to-day, the Chief Justice intimating that ho would then give judgment.

NORTHERN BOOT AND SHOE MANUFACTURING COMPANY.

ANNUAL MEETING.

At the annual meeting of the shareholders of the above Company, which is proceeding as we go to press, the following repoi o and balance-sheet were submitted :—

Your directors regret that the business of the Company for the year ending Octo ber 31st last cannot be regarded as being quite so satisfaotary as compared with the good results of tho previous two years business. This is accounted for by the curtailed sales of our manufactured goods and the adverse circumstances undei which the factory has had to be worked owing to tho limited aud irregular demand for manufactured goods. With a. view to securing a full share of the trade, our endeavour has been to raise tho standard of quality and workmanship to the utmost paying limit, but notwithstanding this effort our sales have como short of the total for last year. We have, however, been careful to write off the usual 10 per cent, for depreciation of, plant and machinery account, and make provision for all known bad and doubtful debts to date. The stock has been carefully taken, and is in first-class order and condition. Whilst we deem it unwise to declare a dividend it may be ie garded as satisfactory to vote the sum of £490 12s 7d at credit of profit and loss account, and that the Companys' busi ness is on a thoroughly sound footing, As your directors and officers intend to turn the experience of the past year to the best possible account, the shareholders may reasonably hope for better results. Yoxir directors feel they are hardly entitled to the usual remuneration for services rendered to the Company during the past year and therefore recommended that thesurr of£6o—insteadof£l4o formerly paid be allotted to them. Two of your direc tors, Messrs Heran and Gittos, retire by rotation, but only the former gentleman offers himself for re election. The auditor (Mr John Milne) also retires but is eligible for re-election. ~ BALANCE SHEET FOR YEAR ENDING OCTOBER 31, 1887. Dr. To 15,000 Shares at £1 each £15,000 ; capital subscribed 12,612 shares at 13s 6d, £8,513 2s ; 10 shares at £1, £10 ; 2.378 shares unallotted, £8,523 2s. Total: £15,000. Bills payable, £2,407 18s 5d ; ac counts payable, £545 11s 10d ; loan on pro perty, £4,000 ; reserve for doubtful debts, £150 ; balance afc credit, profit and loss, £496 12s /7d. Total: £16,123 4s 10d. Cr.—By freehold property, Hobson-strect, £4,804; bills receivable, £776 19s 8d; ac counts receivable, £2,812 14s 6d; cash at bank and in hand, £439 10s 5d ; plant and machinery, October 31, 1886, £1,430 9s 3d ; net additions, £12 10s ; less depreciation, £144 5s lid; stock of materials, boots, shoes, etc., £5,991 6s lid: Total, £16,123 4s 10d.

Pkofit and Loss Account.—Dr.: To wages and salaries, £5,154 Is Id; travelling expenses, general trade charges, advertis ing, printing, &c, £997 2s lid; discounts and interest, £332 10s ; bad debts, £668 13s 2d ; depreciation on plant £144 5s lid; balance, £496 12s 7d ; total £7,793 5s Bd. Cr. By balance from last ycar,£l,236 14s 3d ; less dividend at 7 percent, and honorarium, £701 12s 4d—£535 Is lid; rent of allot ment, Custom-street, £39; gross profit on sales, £7,219 3s 9d: Total, £7,793 5s Bd.

R.M. COURT-THIS DAY.

(Before H. G. Seth Smith, Esq., R.M.)

UNDEFENDED CASES.

In the following cases judgment went for the plaintiff by default:— J. Braund v. W. S. Walker, £30, and .£4 19s costs ; J. King and Another v. R. T. Beale, £17s 7s 6d, arid £2 7s coets ; Paul and Fripp v. S. Jackson., jun, £11 16s 6d, and £2 6s costs; G. Hulme v. S. Jackson junr., £1 8s 8d and 21s 6d costs; same v. J. Anderson, £2 9s 9d and 21s 6d costs ; P. Henry v. Mrs McGuire, 15s 9d and 21s 6d costs ; J. Martin v. C. Rooke, 34s and 21s 6d costs ;,.R. S. S. Sandall v. W. Higgins, £5 2s and 36s costs; W. T. Raymond v. S. Jackson, jun., £25 13s and £4 18s costs ; E. Mitchelson and Co. v. A. Turner, £3 .14s 6d and 21s 6d costs ; Cousins and Aitken v. S. Jackson, jun., £69 Iα 10d and £5 8s costs; Archibald Clark v. James Hosie, £2115s and £4 19s costs. DEFENDED CASES. T. Craig v. Colonel Dawson.—Claim 25s for work done.—Mr Edward Cooper opened for the plaintiff, and Mr Theo. Cooper for the defendant. —The plaintiff is a carpenter, and the work in respect of which he claimed was the easing of a lift in Colonel Dawson's house at Ellerslie, and the planing of a floor.— Defendant repudiated the and the plaintiff in cross-examination admitted that though frequently working in Ellerslie since he had never spoken to defendant of the claim. —After hearing evidence His Wor ship non-suited plaintiff with £1 10s 6d costs.

Burke v. Lupton.—Claim, £2 10 Bd, commission on hay sold for defendant.— Mr Keetley for plaintiff, and Mr Theo. Cooper for defendant.—Plaintiff nonsuited, with 11s 6d costs.

Laishley v. George Andrews and Charles Wilson.—Claim £11 17s 8d on a promissory note. —Plaintiff appeared in per son and Mr Keetley for defendants.

The Newmarket Bowling and Tennis Club open their season on Saturday next, with bowlingand tennis. Should the weather continue as beautiful as at present, a very enjoyable time will be spent. Members will muster in full force, and visitors now in Auckland from one of the Southern clubs are expected. Members will bring their lady friends, and it is hoped that anyone who may care to come will be present as the Committee extend an invita tion to them,

SUPREME COURT.

Criminal Sessions.

Yesterday.

(Before Mr Justice Gillies.)

Breaking and Entering. — Charles Brown and William Henry Barfield were charged with breaking and entering the store of Henry Charles Tripp, at Richmond Road, and stealing therefrom certain groceries, the property of the said Mr Tripp.—Both prisoners pleaded not guilty. —Henry Charles Tripp, storekeeper, Rich mond Road, deposed to his store being broken into on the night of the 25th Sep tember. Witness identified the goods pro duced as similar to those stolen from his shop. Hβ could not swear positively to the articles. A number of other witnesses were examined on behalf of the prosecution. For the defence, the prisoner, Barfield, called Mrs Wallace, Karangahape Road, who deposed that Barfield was in the habifc of buying from her as much as a dozen tins of milk at a time, and got a large quantity of groceries. On one occasion he was not charged by Mr Wallace for the milk, but' he came back and paid for it. Brown called Edwara Drum as a witness, but he did not appear. —Both prisoners addressed the jury, who returned a verdict of not guilty in both instances, and the prisoners were discharged.

Breaking and Entering.—John Claud, charged with breaking and entering the dwellinghouse of Edward Ellis, of River head, and stealing a quantity of kauri eruir, pleaded guilty. ISentsuco was de ferred.

True Bills.—The Grand Jury returned true bills in the following cases :—Caroline Best, forgery (two charges); Ellen Francis Brown, alias Perrott, perjury; Robert Dunlop and Wm. Scott, larceny; John Claud, breaking and entering; Hapata, horse-stealing ; James Fowler, larceny as a bailee.

This concluded the labours of the Grand Jury.

Mr Waddel, the foreman, said that he had been desired to express the opinion of the Grand Jury that some of the cases sent to them might have been dealt vvitii in the lower Court, but they had to deal with the evidence as it came before them. His Honor said unfortunately some classes of cases, no matter how trivial, can only be dealt with by the Supreme Court. •

His Honor then thanked the gentlemen of the grand jury for their services and dis charged them from further attendance.

This Day.

False Pretences. —In the case of William Smith, charged with obtaining goods from B. B. Levy, the jury retired at 10 minutes to 1 o'clock yesterday. As they failed to agree the jury were locked up all night. At 10 o'clock this morning the jury returned into Court, when the foreman said that they had still been unable to agree. — His Honor said : " Well, Mr Foreman and gentle men of the jury, I am sorry that you have been put to all this trouble. In such cases where it is really not of great import ance it is as well to give and take a little. Inasmuch as the prisoner having already pleaded guilty to a more serious offence, the result of your decision would not' have made any material alteration. As it is, the Court will now be put to the trouble of again hearing the case. As you have been so long on duty I discharge you from at tendance until 10 o'clock to-morrow mom-

ing. '' Forging and Uttering.—Caroline Best was charged with forging and uttering an order to obtain certain articles of clothing on the 18th November, at Auckland.—ln answer to the question of the Registrar the accused said, " I wrote the order, sir, but they were not for me. Miss Fenton asked me to write the order."—His Honor: Do you take that to be a plea of guilty."—Mr Williamson : "I take it to be so, your Honor."—His Honor: "But there is no signature to this order."— Mr Williamson : " Mrs Malone is written at the bottom of the order." His Honor: "But Mrs Malone cannot be considered a signature, and then she adds that she wrote the order at the request of a third person."— Mr Williamson pointed out that the girl went herself with the order—His Honor said : " I think I shall take it as a plea of not guilty, and let the jury decide it."—A jury was then empannelled.—John Budge, boot shop proprietor, deposed to the prisoner coming to his shop and giving the order produced, purport-, ing to be signed by Mrs Malone. Witness did not supply the goods mentioned. Mrs Malone, of Nelson-streetj was a customer of his, but she did not send such orders.—Mrs Elizabeth Malone deposed that she had not written the order or sent for the goods.—Kate Munro deposed that the accused lived with witnesses father. She knew the note produced. Carrie Best wrote it. Mary Fenton told her what to write.—Mary Fenton said that Mrs Malone dealt at Mr Budge's shop. The boots were for Carrie Best.—Detective Herbert also gave evidence. In answer to His Honor he stated that the acoused had previously been before the Police Court.—The prisoner did not call evidence. The prisoner then said a few words to the jury in extenuation of her action.—His Honor, in summing up, pointed out that the girl was charged with forgery, but as to whether it was properly a case of forgery he made some little doubts, but that point he should reserve for consideration here after. He reminded the jury that there was no real signature to the order. "Next was the question of the intent, in which they must judge for themselves. They had heard the prisoner admit having written the order, but at the request of a girl called Fenton. That was also, confirmed by Kate Munro. They must also consider whether or not the girl was aware that it was a wrong thing to do. If they were satisfied that the girl's state ment was correct, that she did it innocently, then they must acquit her. On the other hand, they must remember that the latter statement was not confirmed by Kate Munro.—The jury retired for a few moments, and returned into Court with a verdict of not guilty.—As there are other charges against the prisoner she was not discharged.—Mr Williamson said that he believed that the girl Fenton would put a different complexion upon the case.—His Honor remarked that it was a pity the other charges were not gone on with at once, as in the event of the girl being acquitted she would not be detained longer in custody. He added: She is a mere girl, and it looks very like wasting the time of the Court with such trivial things.—Mr Williamson asked that the other cases might be adjourned in order that he might consider whether or not the other cases would be proceeded with.

The Papakcka Eviction Case.—Henry Hench, Carl Bargotte, William Bargotte and Jean Warlick were charged with having forcibly entered the house of Walter Henry White, at Papakura, on the 21st of last September. — Prisoners pleaded not guilty. —Mr Hudson William son prosecuted, and Mr Hugh Campbell appeared on behalf of the defence.— Walter Alfred White deposed to the facts of the assault as already published. His examination in chief lasted for a consider able time, after which cross examined him at great length, but no new facts were elicited.

(Left sitting).

Wβ understand that Mr Alfred Kidd has handed in his resignation of his seat on the Hospital and Charitable Aid Board.

LATE CABLES.

BOGUS FENIAN PLOTS.

London, Wednesday* The reports that a Fenian plots had been formed in Dublin to murder the Marquis of Hartington are believed to , be unfounded.

DEATH OF A RIOTER.

London, Wednesday! A rioter injured at Trafalgar Square has died in the Hospital.

O'DONNELL AND THE "TIMES."

London, Wednesday.

It is asserted that O'Donnell haa been threatened and entreated to with draw his action for libel against the "Times," the Leaguers dreading dis closures.

(SPECIAL./

ANGLO-AUSTRALIAN CRICKET.

London, December 6.

The programme of matches suggested by Mr Alcock for the team of New South Wales cricketers who are to visif, England next season has been generally accepted. The opening match is to be played on 14th May 1888, against the Surrey players on the Oval grounds- Three more fixtures have been added, in eluding matches at Sheffield, Bradford and Huddersfield.

CLOSE OF THE SESSION.

RETURN OF AUCKLAND MEMBERS.

(BY TELEGRAPH.—OWN REPORTER.)

this day. After the result of yesterday's proceedings Ministers ars sanguine of the prorogation taking place not later than this day fort night. The Auckland members will reach their homes by steamer from Taranaki on Saturday 24th December.

WAIKATO DISTRICT HOSPITAL AND CHARITABLE AID BOARD.

(BT TELEGRAPH —OWN CORRESPONDENT.)^

Hamilton, this day. The monthly meeting of this Board was held in Hamilton yesterday. Mr W. A, Graham was unanimously re-elected Chair man, and Messrs Graham, Seddon, and Primrose as House and Finance A letter was received enclosing a cheque for £12 12s as a voluntary donation from the Taupiri Extended Coalmining Company, for which the Secretary was instructed to thank the directors. A letter was received from the Miranda Coalmining Company, stating that they could not comply with the request of the Board at present to contribute to the funds. A number of applications for relief were disposed of.

OUR GOLDFIELDS.

Thames, this day.

TRENTOsr.-The reef in the face of the drive is now 7or 8 inches thick, lib of specimens was obtained yesterday after noon from a small leader striking into the main body of quartz. New Manukat;.—A crushing of 38 tons of quartz has produced the payable return of 40ozs gold.

COROMANDEL.

{From Our Own Correspondent.!

This day. ILafanoa.—The Kapanga Company hava had another good month. The actual re turn is not yet known, but it will exceed the previous month, which was over 500 ozs. Since Captain Hodge took charge of this mine, nearly two thousand ounces of gold have been produced from the mine, aa the result of five months' working.

The Tokatea Company is working better. The tributers working in No. 7 level have come across a nice leader and have already obtainedsome36lbofpickedstone. Tributerg McCalpin working in No. 4 level are also still on gold, and will have a good return by the end of the year.

Royal Oak.—There is nothing fresh from this mine. The manager is pushing , on with the work in the rise, but as the ground is very hard, very slow progress ie made. The manager has some 10 pounde specimens on hand. The tributers are not on gold at present. The manager of the South Tokatea has arrived here from England, and men have already been placed in the mine. Several small claims are bringing stone to the mill so as to reduce everything into cash before Christmas.

There appears to be a good deal of dis satisfaction in educational circles with regard to the allotment of six subjects in connection with the University Scholarship examinations to Dunedin professors, while the work in three subjects only is allotted to Auckland and three sub jects to Christchurch professors. A correspondent in another cqlumn gives expression to this feeling. It must be observed, however, that but for the depar ture of Professor Posnett for England another subject would have been entrusted to Auckland. Canterbury appears to have the greatest cause of complaint.

COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &c, To-night.

Abbott's Opera House—Leitch Company ra " Harbour Lights,' 8. Agricultural Hall Mohawk Minstrels, 8. V.M.C.A. Rooms—Evangelistic Service, 7.3Ct Auckland Tabernacle—Service, 7.50. Drilished— "A" Battery, N.Z.R.A.,7.30.

Rota of Justices at Police Court.

Dec. 9—Messrs P. A. Philips and G. P. Pierce,

Auction Sales To-morrow.

Arthur ;.nd Buddie—Weekly Poultry and Pro* duce Sale, 11 Hunter and Nolan, Durham Yards— Horses. etc., 11 W. J. Dowden-Weekly Poultry and Produce Sale, 11 S. Cochrane and Son—Household-Furniture, etc., 11 •, Paget and Ralston — Poultry, Produce, Furni ture, 10.30 ■ - T. M. Jackson—Furniture, Produce, etc., 11 IS. Leydon—Poultry, Produce, etc., 11 J. Leydon—Poultry, Produce, Furniture, oto,,

A. Aitken—Poultry, Produce, etc., 12 B. Tonks and Co. — Household Furniture, Agricultural Implements, Engine, etc, Hi Otahuhu Racing Club's spring Privileges, 12. D. F. Evans—Furniture, etc., 10.30. Vaile and Douglas—Property, 2, ■ . ■. ; ■ -. F. J. Jones—Groceries, Fruit, etc., 11, ".) . E. Leydon—Produce, 11 o'clock ■ ' ' ! *'• T. M, Jackaon—Hams, etc., 10,30

THE AUCKLAND EVfcJNIJNG STAK, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8. 1887,

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