populated. Nearly three years a»o the French protectorate flag was hoisted over this island; but although the EDglish Government protested against this action and stopped further proceedings at that time, it has been generally conceded that Raiatea, from its position, ought to be attached to the colony of French Oceania, having its seat of Government, at Tahiti The New Hebrides negotiations gave France an opportunity of urging their claim, and the British merit having apparently agreed to cancel the treaty securing the neutrality of Raiatea, that island is now in process of being subjugated to French colonial rule.

As was to be expected, there is a section of the natives who object to the establishment of settled govern ment, and three French war-ships, the Decres, Scorpion, and Orohena, are employing the usual "arguments" to convince these benighted people of the blessings of civilisation. A town has been bombarded, a number of villages destroyed, pigs slaughtered, canoes smashed, and cocoanut trees cut down; but as the stubborn rebels still hold aloof from owning allegiance, further "persuasion" in the form of regular warfare is promised them. It •is hoped that the natives will see the wisdom of capitulat ing at discretion, for though they are somewhat intractable they well know the futility of struggling against the superior weapons, organisa tion, and resources of the white man. The French forces have so far acted with commendable moderation, and have respected the rights of English, American, and German traders estab lished on the island ; while the Eng lish missionaries, although objecting to the annexation, do not appear to have been in any way molested. In point of fact, the traditions of French rule in the Society Islands are marked by a conciliation and toleration of settlers and missionaries of all nationalities, under restrictions which are considered necessary, but which are never oppressive. If there had been more of this spirit shown at the New Hebrides, there would have been no need for Australian protests against French arrogance and interference with the rights and liberties of English sub jects. _________

The Secretary of the G.P.O. ad vises that the s.s. Alameda, with the English mails of 30th of November, left San Francisco for Auckland on the 17th inst., one day late. The s.s. Mariposa, with the colonial mails of sth inst., arrived at San Francisco from Auckland on the 24th inst., one day in advance of contract time. An open sailing boat with a small pleasure party on Doard, and in charge of her owner, James Reid, of Ponsonby, struck on the sandbank off Shelly Beach at low water yesterday. The centre-board being down, the boat heeled over and took in of water. The party con sequently found themselves almost high and dry in mid channel. The water, how ever, was only about two feet deep, and some of the party were not wet above their knees. Other sailing boats that were in the vicinity took them on board and landed them safely at Ponsonby.

In our report of the water excursions on Boxing Day a curious error was made. It was stated that the Jubilee Company's steamer Stormbird was not well patronised on the trip to Kawau and that she was late in starting. This was a mistake, as the • Stormbird' was so crowded before the hour appointed for leaving that passengers had to be refused ; she also started ten minutes before the 'Clansman.' Another vessel leaving at a later hour for a less favoured resorb'had been confounded with the Storm fcird.

At the coronial inquiry into the death of the late Sir Wm. Me Arthur, held at London ou 18th November, evidence was given as to the circumstances of his sudden seizure. IHe had been hurrying to catch a train and gob into a first-class compartment, alone, where he was soon after found dead. Dr. ! Verdon stated that he had known the de ceased for some years, and had attended him professionally. He last saw him alive about a fortnight ago, when he was well. The deceased suffered from gouty com ; -plaints. He saw the deceased after death. From his knowledge he had no doubt but that ihe deceased over-exerted himself by hurrying, which caused an attack of faint ness, or syncope of the heart, and death. The jury returned a verdict accordingly.

The Mohawk Minstrels repeated their programme to a crowded house last even ing This made the sixtieth performance for this excellent company since their arrival here.

The Devonport Steam Ferry Company having placed their fine steamer Britannia at the disposal of Admiral Fairfax for the purpose of making an excursion to the North Shore or any place In the vicinity, the Ad mirals secretary has replied accepting the kind offer, and stating that he will again communicate with the manager when he has fixed a date. It is expected that the Admiral will visit Calliope. Dock before leaving for Wellington, and it is also thought that he may take his carriage and horses to North Shore and drive to Lake Takapuna and Waiwera.

Those excursionists who took advantage of the Oreti's cheap trip from Onehunga to the Manukau Heads on Monday had a grand treat. Over 400 men, women and children went. The steamer left the wharf on arrival of the 8.40 tram from Auckland, which brought a good muster of Auckland passengers. bhe returned in ample time to allow them to catch the 7.15 train home, v it tong-the generally expressed wish that the Oreti would be put on again for another excursion on Monday, January 2nd, and f eeleuw if she is, she will . f fc n jj^P^ oTthe lieSousf was alone worth more than the return fare.

On Monday next, the eustoraan■ .New Year fetes will take place at the Dog and it is important that the police authori ties should make arrangements for the pre servation of order. On Boxing fay the larrikins had it all their own way, but e\en a cou P te of constables would have restrained them Last year the attention of Super m teSnt Thomson was called to the neea of protecting the crowds of women and children who frequent the Domain on New Year's Day, and he promised to see that t4was attended to. His successor Will, we trust, see the intention earned into children of Holy Trinity Sunday 1 School, to the number of about 250, and ac . companied by sotne 20 teachers, lett tne North Shore shortly after 9.30 this morning by the p.s. Victoria for the Tamaki, where arrangements have been made to cc ebrate the school anniversary in the usual *ay. The Rev. Joseph Bates and Mr W. Hoije Brown (Superintendantof the school) are in charge of the party, and, the weather beng exceptionally fine, a very enjoyable holiday i ibould \re spent by all.

Sir Charles Mitchell, ex Governor of Fiji and party, proceeded to the Hot Lakes district this morning, being booked right through at Hayr's Tourist Agency. The party are. to proceed overland to Napier and thence to Wellington. Consumers of city water are reminded that this week is the last date for receiving payment of accounts now due.

The French war-ship Duqucsne arrived at San Francisco on 27th October, and in tended to return to Tahiti before the close of the year.

A. G. Price, draper, Wellington, is bankrupt, with debts amounting to £9,376 os sd, and assets valued at £9,888 4s 2d. The unsecured creditors are :—Thompson, Shannon, and Co., £3,434 2s 9d ; Owen and Graham, merchants, Auckland, £738 8s 5d • J. E. Nathan and Co., £659 6s 10d ; Macky, Logan, and Co., merchants, Auckland, £277 16s 4d ; Kaiapoi Woollen Co., £391 18s: Whittem, Nicholson, and Co., £233 12s lid ; Clarkson and Co., Christchurch, £180 9s 2d; Butterworth Brothers, Christ church, £126 8s lid; Benjamin Harris and Co., Dunedin, £103 5s 5d ; Sargood, Son, and Co., £177 7s; Edmonson, War mington, and Co., £95 5s 8d ; Blundell Brothers, £50 ; Dodgson and Co., Dunedin, £48 lls; and smaller items.

The Opera House was crowded to excess in all parts last night, and the success achieved with " Alone in London " on the previous evening was fairly surpassed. At the close of several of fcho acts the principals were called before the curtain, while cordial applause and hearty laughter were the order of the night. Of the splendid scenery with which the play is equipped, the two sets that attracted most attention were West minster Bridge, and the Thames by moon light with an excursion steamer passing in the near distance. Their realism compels one's admiration. In addition to the portraitures that we singled out yesterday for laudatory notice, Mr A. G. Poulton's " Chawlie" Johnson cannot be overlooked. It is a really capital impersonation. The same bill will be presented to-night.

Several thousands of people vieited the North Shore both yesterday and Monday — the ferry steamers running almost con tinuously, carrying large loads. Arrived on the other side, the visitors amused themselves in various ways, such as bathing, boating, and strolling or lolling on the sands. Willow Grove Gar dens were crowded both days, and the swings, lawn, and arbours received due attention. Mr Parrish and his staff had their resources strained to the utter most, but they were able to meet all de mand?. Yesterday the crowd was even greater than on Monday, and the supply of strawberries, which was very large, was shot tof the demand by two plates. All the visitors appeared to enjoy the outing. In the words of one of the wharf touts, " Who wouldn't go to the North Shore ? Only a penny a trip !"

The following rather queer item of intelli gence is from this morning's " Herald" :—

" As showing the excellence of Rarotonga Harbour, it may be mentioned that H. M.S. Cormorant went inside and remained at anchor for six or seven days, and her com mander spoke very highly of the place, and was so pleased with it that he intends to recommend the place as a coaling station for the Pacific station." To people who know the harbour at Rarotonga, this testi mony to its "excellence" wi)l be very entertaining, and we fancy that even the commander of H.M.S. Cormorant will be astonished at the use made of his name in the matter. To begin with, Eng land does not want a coaling station in that part of the Pacific, which is within four days' steam of Fiji; and it is hard to see how Rarotonga Harbour could be of any value for that purpose. In dimensions, it is little more than a boat haven, and no more than one warship could lie in it at a time, while in the event, pf .. a northerly wind, epringing up it would be necessary to put to aoa to escape being dashed ashore, as so many vessels have been while anchored in fancied security in that "excellent harbour." As a step towards British annexation of the Cook Islands, the establishment of a coaling station at Rarotonga may be highly desirable; but money would be better spent in improving the harbour for commercial purposes than in creating a coaling station. It is an intensely amusing assumption that where a warship can " anchor for 6ix or seven days" is of necessity an.excellent har bour. If Rarotonga is ever made a coaling station it will be because it is the only har bour that is Jeft in the Eastern Pacific since British apathy allowed the really good harbour of Rapa to be taken by France.

The Rev. S. Macfarlane, United Church minister, removes this year to the South, and his furniture is to be sold by auction to-morrow, at. 11 o'clock, by Messrs Arthur and Buddie, at the residence on the main road, Mount Eden, and close to the Methodist Church.

A very enjoyable day was spent by the Ellerslio Band of Hope and Presbyterian Sabbath-school at a picnic yesterday in Mr Wm. Garrett's paddock, kindly let t for the occasion. A bountiful supply of good things was provided, and, thanks to friends in town, for prizes for the various games ; Mrs Austin, One Tree Hill, for butter and milk ; Messrs C. V. and R. H. Hill for wood, water, etc., all returned to their homes thoroughly pleased with their day's sport. A very pleasant gathering of the pupils (numbering over forty) took place at the Waratah Private School, Eden Terrace, on Thursday last, on the occasion of the " breaking-up " for the Christmas holidays. After refreshments had been partaken of, and a few hours pleasantly spent in music, recitation, and games, the distribution of prizes took place. The following is a list of the prize winners :-Musie, Florence Ballins, Amelia Hutchison; drawing, Flossie Barber. Day and Evening School:— History and composition, Emily McCrac ken • needlework, F. Barber ; reading and recitation, Margaret Peace ; writing and composition, A.Hutchison; reading and spelling, Harriet Allen; writing, Kate Cockburn ; geography and - S™™™?> Madge Heighviay; arithmetic Ethel Bis hop. Junior Classes : - Sewing, Rheda Washer; spelling, Gussie Ballins Tottie Thomas,, May Heighway, George Smith; writing, Florence Barker, Gussie Ballins, Elsie Bishop arithmetic, Arthur Hawkins ; punctuality, F. Barker, G. Balhns, A. Hawkins. A Christmas cantata entitled " Night of Glory" will be rendered by St. James s Auxiliary Church Choir, tomorrow even ing in the Hall. The. cantata is new.consisting of solos, duets, quartettes, and some very effective choruses, and a peal of bells will be tolled during the rendering of. some of the items. Mr J. H. Edmondes will conduct.

ACCIDENT AT TE AROHA.

(BY TELEGBAPH.-OWN CORESPONDENT.)

Tβ Akoha, this day. A YOUNG man named John Howrie, who arrived from Auckland yesterday with his iiSiii wmmM

SPORTING.

THE A.R.C. SUMMER MEETING.

The following weights were declared last night by Mr Evett:—

New Year's Day Hurdle Race, two miles. st lb Bt lb Peter Osbeck 12 0 Coral...' ... 9 5 Isaac 11 4 MaPetiteFille 9 0 Silvio 11 0 Shillelagh ... 9 0 Uranus ... 11 0 Don 8 7 Shotover ... 11 12 Sirloin ... 8 7 Newmarket Handicap, six furlongs. st lb st.lb Cinderella ... 9 6 Lioness ... 612 Sextant ... 9 0 Capella. ... 610 Antelope ... 8 7 Haricot ... 6 9 Balista ... 7 12 Greenmount... 6 9 Bangle ... 7 8 Tennyson ... 6 8 Fornio ... 7 2 Lady Alice ... 6 6 Paddy ... 7 2 Flintlock ... 6 6 Catesby ... 7 0 Brown Rose... 6 0 Fusee ... 6 12 - Criterion Handicap, seven furlongs. Cinderella ... 9 5 Capella' ... 6 9 Wapiti ... 8 6 Tennyson ... 6 7 Tamora ... 8 5 Greenmount... 6 7 Balista ... 7 11 Lady Alice... 6 5 Bangle ... 7 6 Flintlock ... 6 5 Formo ... 7 0 Miss Alice ... 6 4 Paddy ... 6 12 Sir Walter ... 6 0 Catesby ... 612 W.E.Gladstone 6 0 Lioness ... 610 Memorandum 6 0 Fusee ... 6 10

THE A.J.C. SUMMER MEETING.

(reuter's telegram. )

Sydney, December 27.

The Australian Jockey Club's Summer Meeting took place to-day. The principal event resulted:— Scjmmer Cup, of 500sovs. One mile and a half. Vespasia 1 The Queen 2 Acme 3 Fifteen started. The betting was 4to 1 against Kitawa, 8 to 1 against Honeydew, 8 to 1 Flaneur, 10 to 1 Vespasia, 10 to 1 Queen. Honeydew led until n aching the back of the course, when Allandale came to the front and led by three lengths, with Vespasia next. Entering the straight, a desperate race ensued to the finish between Vespasia and Queen, the former winning by a head. Pasha was last. Time, 2uiin. 38£ see.

THAMES RACES.

Thames, Tuesday. The Jockey Club's Summer Meeting was continued to-day. Results : —

Steeplechase. —This was a grand race and a big boil-over—there being a dividend of £7 4s. Recruit beat Shotover at the post. Fair Play also ran. Goldfield Handicap. — Clogs walked over.

Free Handicap.—Haricot, 1; Mermaid, 2.

Races at Palmerston.

Palmerston North, yesterday.

The Summer Meeting was held yesterday. The weather was disagreeable, but the at tendance was fair. Handicap Hurdles : Re form, 1; Premium, 2; Allegro, 3. Div., £7 13s. Maiden Plate : Voltigeur, 1; Escapade, 2 ; Vision, 3. Dividend, ' £8. Hurdle Handicap : Tongariro, 1 ; Premium, 2; Oiriri, 3. Dividend, £1 11s. Palmer ston Guineas — Germaine, 1; Orwell, 2; Strenuous, 3. Dividend, £4 lls. .Flying Handicap : Strenuous, 1; Rufus, 2. Divi dend, £2 ss.

Masterton, this day. The following are the results of the second day's racing:— Hurdles : Kangaroo, 1 ; Rata, 2; .Johnny, 3. Freebooter fell heavily, the rider receiving a severe shaking. Masterton Handicap: Smooth, ,1; Rumour, 2; Little Scrub, 3 ; won by a neck after a desperate finish ; time, lmin 45sec; dividend, £3 14s. Tradesmen's Handicap: Rumour, 1; Orator, 2 ; Kanga roo, 3 ; won by a head ; time, 2min 14sec ; dividend, £2 9a. Consolation : Cupid, 1; Forester, 2 ; Johnny, 3 ; time, lmin 48sec ; dividond, £3 15s.

Marlborough Racing Club Boxing Day Races.

Blenheim, this day.

There was a fair attendance, and the racing was very good considering that only small stakes were offered. There were nine events on the programme. Hayes and Jenkins's patent totalisator, which is to be exhibited at Melbourne exhibition, was on the erround. Mr Hayes superintended its working. It was fairly patronised. The following are the results :— Handicap Hurdle Race, two miles, eight nights hurdles. — Oceola, 1; Jim, 2; Orient, 3. Tim&,4minsßsecs. Totalieator,77; dividend, £6 6s. HaOk Hurdle, one mile and a quarter, over six flights.—Sweet William, 1; Cas sandra, 2 ; Hallelujah Lad, 3. Totalisator, 54 ; dividend, £12 Is. . Maiden Hack Race, three-quarters of a mile,—Eroma, 1; Fisherman, 2. Totalisa tor, 86 ; dividend, £7. Wairau Plate, one mile and a-half.— Baroma, 1 ; Orient, 2 ; Sweetie, 3. Totalisator, 134 ; dividend, £2 13s. ■ Shearers' Purse, one mile and a-quarter. —Miss DOr, 1; Cassandra, 2 ; Hallelujah Lad, 3. Totalisator, 57; dividend, £1 13s. Flyino Stakes Handicap, half mile.— Jim, 1; Queen Margaret, 2; Tui, 3. Totalisator, 96 ; dividend, £2. The owner of Tui entered a protest, and the race was run over again, but Queen Margaret did not start. Jim won easily. Cavalry Race, once round.—Swords man, 1; Roma, 2 ; Cassandra, 3. Totalisa tor, 78 ; dividend, £1 13s. Sporting Handicap, once round.— Her Ladyship, 1; Baroma, 2. Totalisator, 35 ; dividend, £3 10s. Consolation. — Sweetie, 1; Agetta, 2; Fisherman, 3.

Westport Races.

The following were the results at this meeting yesterday :— Flying Handicap.—Cardigan, 1; Rome, 2. Hurricane, the favourite, is said to have been held at the start, and both the horse and jockey (Edward Williams, of Reefton) were disqualified. Great public indigna tion was expressed at those controlling Hurricane. Town Plate.-Norfolk, 1; Cardigan, 2. Bulleb Handicap.—Fleetwing, 1; Capt. Abraham, 2. „ _j, Open Handicap.—Snowstorm, 1; Norfolk Lass, 2.

The Drury Cup, run yesterday, was won by Highland Mary. Larrikin No. 2 appro priated the Hurdle Race, and The Cat got home first in the B.C. Handicap. St. Michael won the Maiden Plate, and Eruption the Free Handicap. The Hastings Handicap of 200sovs., decided on Boxing Day, fell to Pearl, Warama being secondhand Falconet third. Bivulet appropriated the Christmas Handi cap, and Chemist the Hurdle Race.

ATHLETIC NOTES.

Cricket.

Mr R. Crowe, the Secretary of the Auck land Cricket Association, has received a reply from the Napier Cricket Association in reference to the invitation sent the

Napier cricketers to visit Auckland this summer, to the effect that owing to their having to pay Wellington a visit this year they will not be able to come up here. This match with Wellington is played every year. Mr Crowe had to write twice to the Napier Association before he could get a reply—once at the commencement of the season in October, and again a fortnight back.

A scratch match was played on Monday in the Domain between two teams, cap tained by Messrs Testro and Stemson. The former went in first, and scored 206 (Wright 70, Fripp 21), and Stemson'a side replied with 104, "to which Thomas contri buted 47, not out.

The Junior Cup match United v. National resulted in a win for the United by 29 runs. National scored 57, Spence 22, A. Nicholson 12, Pilcher 7, Waters 5, being the princi pal scorers, and the United replied with 86. To this the chief contributors were New combe 19, Lankham 18, Ccoikes, Cotton 8. Ambury took four wickets for 13 runs.

At Melbourne, a match between elevens of Victoria and New South Wales was con cluded yesterday, and resulted in a victory for the New South Welshmen by two wickets.

The Shaw-Lillywhite team concluded a match yesterday, with 22 of Ballarat, win ning by eight wickets. A match is proceeding at Adelaide be tween Vernon's team and a local eleven. The Englishmen made 381 in their first innings, and the local team scored 147 in theirs. Being 234 runs behind, they followed on, and when time was called yesterday had one wicket down for 249 runs. Howling. There was a large attendance of mem bers at the grounds of the Auckland Bowl ing and Lawn Tennis Club on Saturday afternoon, and also on Monday and Tues day. On Saturday the following matches were played :—No. 1 rink: M. McDermott, J. J. Craig, J. Winks, W. Tait (skip), 21; J. Lyell, E. Langguth, Paterson (Whan ganui), J. Kirkwood (skip), 20.' No. 2 rink : A. H. Taylor, W. E. Bennett, W. C. Mirfin, J. Miller (skip), 21; W. S. Jones, W. E. Payne, J. Paterson, J. C. Taunt (skip), 11. No. 3 rink: R. Cameron, D. W. Duthie, W. H. Skinner, J. Billington (skip),' 21; W. S. Jones, A. Thomson, J. Hardie, P. Oiiphant (skip), 11. It is ex pected that Admiral Fairfax will shortly visit the green.

ANOTHER CHAPTER OF ACCI DENTS.

FIVE FATAL CASUALTIES,

(BY TELEGRAPH. —PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

New Plymouth, Tuesday. A man named Jeremiah Hunter was killed at Stratford on Saturday, when bush felling, a tree striking him on the groin. Christchurcii, Tuesday. On Saturday, John Rothery,,aged 19, son of Henry Rothery, was drowned in Lake Ellesmere. Oamaru, Tuesday. A man named Johnston, in the employ d r Mr Reid, of Elderslie, was found lying under a dray he had been driving. His back was broken, his dray having gone over him. He died this morning in the Hospi tal. ■-•• ;■•<•• HoltiTiKA, Tuesday. Mr E. Rawlings, overseer for the Christ church Road Board, was injured whilst clearing away a landslip near Rocky Point, both legs being broken, whilst he was injured internally. Hβ died whilst being carried to the Kumara Hospital. Invercarqill, Tuesday. A boy of eight years, the son of Mr Cranley, ex-Mayor of South Invercargill, was choked yesterday by an indiarubber toy, known as a squeaker. It slipped down the throat, and the small balloon being in flated by the returning breath from the lungs, filled up the windpipe, and suffocated the lad. Wellington, this day. The man Morgan, reported yesterday as missing, has turned up again. He states that he had been to Chriptchurch. Mr George Adams, who yesterday met witli an accident by falling over a cliff, died at eight o'clock this morning.

GAOL INQUIRY.

Mr W. H. Wakeham, after many months of constant agitation and petitioning Parlia ment, has at last secured the appointment of a commission to inquire into his charges. His petition to the House has already been published in our columns. The following is a copy of the report of the Petitions Committee upon it: —

Public Petitions Committee report on the petition of William Henry Wakeham, of Auckland : Petitioner states that when in prison awaiting trial he was placed in a cell with a madman, whom he and the other prisoners had to tie down in the middle of the night with their own blankets. He alleges thab he was not allowed to hold con versation with his child, was deprived of the privilege of seeing a vi»itor, compelled to work when suffering actual pain, reported for offences he did not actually commit, kept; in gaol for 14 days longer than the allotted time through sickness, and did not receive the whole of his property when he was let out. He prays for public inquiry into his grievances. lam directed to report that the Committee recommend the Government to request the Visiting Justices to inquire into the statements made in the petition.—(Sd). T. Thompson, Chairman. Nov. 23, 1887."

Mr Wakeham, however, having pointed out that the Visiting Justices would pos sibly have to be called as witnesses, the Go vernmentin actingupon the recommendation of the Petitions Committee, have nominated Mr Seth Smith, E.M., to conduct the in- Suiry. This decision was communicated to ie petitioner in the following letter:—

" Prisons Department, Wellington, New Zealand, 21st December, 1887. To Mr W. H. Wakeham, Upper Pitt-street, Auck land :—Sir,—l am directed to inform you that an inquiry will be held at an early date, under the presidency of Mr Seth Smith, R.M., to inquire into the seven charges,, as per paper attached, preferred by you against the Auckland prison officials. I am to inform you that the Government will sanction no expenses for witnesses ; and counsel on either side will not be allowed. Mr Smith has been re quested to intimate to you the date place, and hour of the inquiry assembling.— I halve the honour to be, sir, your obedient servant, A. Hume, Inspector of Prisons."

Mr Wakeham objects, however, and very reasoiiab I y, to being'debarred the assistance of counsel and to the non payment of his witnesses. He has been put to great trouble and loss in obtaining the inquiry, and now that it is ordered, it ought to be made as thorough as possible.

GAMES OF CHANCE AT THE RACES.

At the Police Court this morning, before Mr H. C. Baddeley, R.M., the cases pre ferred by the police against the eight men arrested on Monday at Eilerslie Racecourse came up for hearing. The first case was that against ' John Grappel. Sergeant Pratt conducted the prosecution, and Mr O'Meagher appeared for the accused.

Patrick Herbert, acting-detective, de posed to seeing the prisoner standing between the two Grand- Stands with a gaming table erected, at the Eilerslie Racecourse on Monday. He was offering 7 to 1. When the accused saw witness he said to those around him : " Re member, you take the whole of the money yourself. The game is between yourselves. You give me what you like for the use of the table." Thegamewascommonlycalled"Roly Poly." ■ If played as witness saw it played, it was aerainst the public. The game was similar toroulette.

Mr O'Meagher said that he had played some of these games himself, and could assure the Court that it was not the same as roulette.

Witness said that thegamewasalso known as the Queen of Fortune. He saw 16s put on the table. The accused handed it all to the winner, who gave him Is for the use of the table. Witness also found other things under the table. One of these games was known as "Doodlem buck." He also found a wheel of fortune. Mr O'Meagher said that this at any.rate was purely a game of skill. Witness explained that the first game wae strictly one of chance. He found the wheel produced, which was also a game of chance. Witness arrested the prisoner. At the request of the Bench, Detective Herbert illustrated how the game was played. By Mr O'Meagher: Witness did not hear the accused demand any pay. He simply said, "You can give me what you like." He did not hear any person complain about being unfairly treated. The came game had been frequently played at the race course. Men had been cautioned, but not arrested until this occasion.

Mr O'Meagher contended that this was simply a sweepstake got up on the race. He held that it was protected by Section 7 of the Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1885. The Bench said that he would reserve judgment upon the question, as he should like to look up the authorities. It was a unique case, and the liryt of the kind that had been heard in the colony.

Sergeant Pratt said that it would better suit the ends of justice if the other cases were also heard. The Bench decided to take the other cases. John Hart was charged with playing a certain same of chance at Ellerelie Race course last Monday. Mr O'Meagher pleaded not guilty on be half of the accused. Detective Walker entered the box and commenced to open out a variety of coloured cloths until the Court looked like a church fancy bazaar or sale of work. At length the Bench remarked that it must be quite an elaborate affair. Detective Walker deposed to seeing the accused playing a game called " Marble Peter," which was a game of chance played with dice and coloured marbles. The betting- was one to one on the red and blue, andtifteentooneonthewhite. Asmall aperture at the end of the box allows a small marble to come out. This is closed with a slide. The marbles are shaken up in the box, and one is allowed to fall. Whatever colour comes out wins. There were equal numbers of red and blue marbles and"'only dne white one. ' Hence the heavy odds. Witness saw the game played. The accused had a large pile of silver on the table. The red and blue had the most backer?. There was 3s on the red, 3s on the blue, and Is on the white. If the red won the 3s wae picked off the blue and passed over to the winner, and the Is on the white was profit. Those who backed the blue and white lost the money. The game was distinctly in favour of the holder of the table. He could only pay on one colour, as only one colour came out. If only two colours were backed the things were level. He could lose if the colours wore not equally backed. This was purely a game of chance. No skill was required at all.

Detective Hughes deposed to see ing the accused playing the game. He then described the game. The yellow marble was the largest of the lot. That was the one on which 15 to 1 was offered. He saw the game repeated several times. He did not see the yellow win. It was larger than the rest, and it was pretty tough to get it out. By Mr O'Meagher: He did not see the yellow marble, and the prisoner took good care that no one else did that day. Witness had played the game and had lost at it. The yellow marble never came out. The largest marble always had the largest odds. It seldom came out.

Mr O'Meagher contended that this case also came under Section 7 of the Gaming and Lotteries Act. He pointed out that the evidence showed that the accused had gained nothing by the transaction. It was simply a sweepstake. His Worship pointed out that the stakes were not equal. ' His Worship decided to reserve judgment in this case also.

Albert Chatband was also charged with playing " sweat vr n" at Ellerslie on Boxing Day. Mr J. O'Meaeher pleaded not guilty on behalf of the prisoner. Detective Hughes described the nature of the game, produced the apparatus, and deposed seeing theaccusedplayingthegame. A cloth had six numbers and a star. The wheel revolved, and only three numbers could win at once. He saw shillings placed on two numbers. Other numbers won, and as no money was staked the prisoner pocketed the money. As the witness was giving evidence and illustrat ing the game, he placed shillings on the various numbers. Mr O'Meagher care fully watched the game, and at length walked away and sat down. Detective Hughes quietly remarked, " There was another shilling there, but Mr O'Meagher jusfc secured it." Mr OMeagher said," I thought to make one shilling by the cross examination, but the witness saw me." He then handed in the spoils.

Detective Hughes also explained how to play the game on the double, and showed now the holder of the game must win under almost any circumstances. By Mr O'Meagher: Witness saw three games played. On one occasion the ac cused had to pay one shilling out of iiis own pocket. Constable Clark gave corroborative evi dence, and deposed to arresting the prisoner. Mr O'Meagher said that in order to save time he would, in the face of the evidence adduced, admit that it was a game of chance. That was evident. He would ask that the prisoner be dealt with under the provisions of the Gaming and Lotteries Act. Detective Hughes, being recalled, de posed that the prisoner had already served 14 daye for playing " under and over." His Worship reserved sentence in this case. The other cases were remanded until Friday morning at 9.30 o'clock, bail being enlarged.

ANOTHER PLEASURE-BOAT MISSING.

We understand that on Mondayjmorning three young fellows, two of wnom are named Harry Airey and Harry Atkinson respectively, left Auckland for Motuibi or Motutapu, and have not since been heard of. The name of the third has not yeb transpired. They left, in a small sailing boat manned entirely fys themselves, and their relatives, who reside at Surrey Hills, are naturally very an?:ious concerning them.

The yacht Maritana, which came up from Motutapu last night, reports having left there a cutter having on ' board a pleasure party and an open sailing boat hailing from Ponsonby. Both crafb were windbound, and Messrs Ryan and Bindon, of the Maritana, noticing that a number of ladies were on board the sailing boat, offered to bring them on to town, The offer was gladly accepted, and the ladies, attended by a male companion, accordingly came up to town by the Maritana. This vessel returned to Motutapu to-day

EXPLORATION OF NEW GUINEA.

A SUCCESSFUL EXPEDITION,

[reuter's telegram.]

Sydney, this day.

Mr Bevan, leader of the expedition formed at Sydney for exploring New Guinea, has returned to : Thursday Island. Hβ reports the result of their labours as a brilliant geographical success. The expedition explored the river system running into the gulf of Papua over an area of 10,000 miles of new territory, but was compelled to re turn, owing to half the men being down with fever. Personally, Mr Bevan is desirous of re-commencing the ex ploration if the necessary funds are provided, the last expedition having confirmed his former discoveries.

THE SQUADRON.

Led away by a report which appeared in our morning contemporary, a large number of people were on the lookout this morning for the landing of 600 men from the fleet > but to their chagrin, no such thing occurred. At nine o'clock the usual weekly battalion drill of the blue jackets took place on the Taka puna Racecourse. Some 230 men from the Nelson with a nine-pound field gun, and 150 men from the Diamond and Rapid with two more field gune and a drum and fife band, landed at the North Shore by the. Naval Reserve, and marched to the racecourse, where two hours' drill was put in, the men being on board then , vessels again by half-past eleven. There is to be no public drill beyond the usual routine work, and Wednesday is always the day on which this is done. H.M.S. Baven sailed from Lyttelton yes terday afternoon for this port, and is ex pected to reach here on Friday. H.M.S. Calliope is expected to join the fleet during to-day, but up to the time of going to .press she had not put in an ; , ~, The of the squadron are to sail for Wellington on the sth of January, and,pro ceeding by way of Wellington, are expected to arrive in Sydney on the 23rd proximo, in order to take part in the centennial celebration there on the 26th of January.

SUDDEN DEATH AT PUKEKOHE.

Me William Routly, an old and respected resident at Pukekohe, was found dead in his stable at 2 p.m. or. the 26th inst. He was in his usual health, and had lunch about 10 o'clock; after which he lay down for about half-an-hour on a couch. He left his house about eleven, and did not return at the usual dinner hour. Mrs Routly was not alarmed ac his not returning for dinner, as she believed he was looking after the cattle on the farm. At two, deceased's youngest son went to the stable to get a board, and was surprised at seeing his father lying on his back, and on calling him received no reply. He ran off and told his mother that his father was lying in the stable, and he believed he was dead. Mrs Routly and her daughter went to the stable and found the boy's statement only too true.

An inquest was held to-day, before Cap tain Jackson, coroner, and a jury of six. Mr Wm. Bayly was chosen fore man. Dr. Dalziel was in attendance. The wife of deceased was examined and stated that her husband had been told by two medical men, nine years ago, that he had heart-disease. The boy who had found his f«ther was examined. Upon the evidence of Dr. Dalziel, together with that of Mrs Routly and Master Routly, the jury returned a verdict that the cause of death was heart-disease. Mr Routly came to re side in Pukekohe about twenty-five years ago, when the district was all in forest. He was much respected by all his neigh bours. He leaves a wife and four children, the eldest of which is grown up, and the family has been left in comfortable circum stances.—(Correspondent.)

A PICNIC PARTY WINDBOUND.

The Customs launch was brought into re quisition by Sergeant Clarke, of the water police, this morning in order to proceed t° Drunken Bay to search for a picnic party that went down there on Boxing Dayandhad not returned , . Considerable uneasiness was felt by the • friends of' the picnickers, for they were to have returned on Mon day evening. Two of the party, two young men named Dilly, came up by another boat yesterday, and the party were left all safe last night by the yacht Mari tana when she left Drunken Bay. A rather heavy sea has been rolling into Drunken Bay during the past couple of days with a strong wind, and this prevented the cutter from getting out, but no doubt the party are all serene.

THE PROSPERITY OF THE UNITED STATES.

As our reporb of the interview with Ml Sargent, the American manufacturer,, has caused some comment, one of our stafl waited this, morning upon , Mr E. Par sons, who was for many years a resi dent of the United States. Upon being in. formed that he was being interviewed, Mr Parsons courteously offered to furnish any information in his power. T . "You were several years in the United States ?" said ohe reporter. ..,.•; "Yes; 1 "was there over 25 years. I went out in '47 and left it in '75. I was in the South during the war. Before that time everything was free, and I have made and sold lots of whisky at Is, per gaJlon. Now there is a duty of 2s per gallon upon it. That would have been reduced long ago but for the tricks of the whisky ring." "I suppose you reid the account of the interview with Mr Sargent ?", .-.<-. ■ "Oh, yes. He only wants to make oufc that he can sell his goods 20 percent, below the retail price. Why, I can do more than that. lam now agent for reapers and binders, and other agricultural machinery, which I can sell at from 37£ to ,40 F3r cent, less than the retail prices, ye been agent for. the same firm for years. Mr Sargent only wants to do a little blow. Of course, my prices are for implements delivered on board at "New York."

" Mr Sargent evidently believes in free trade?" ;.'.'.'".

"Of course he believes in free trade. It is a simple attempt to stop industries being started in these new countries. That's his business."

"Do you believe that the United States areas prosperous as they are. made ut to be?" • ~: V . •

"Yes; there is no country'in the world that is so prosperous at the present time as the United States. I got some 20 daily papers by. the last mail, and there are only one or two small farms offered for vale. '' "Do you consider that a sign of. pros perity ?" . ... •' Certainly. If there are no farms for sale it looks as if farming is paying, and yet the prices for produce are very low in the States." Mr Parsone here turned to a copy of the "Atalahta. Constitution," Ga., and quoted from the list to show that hens wore sold at 10d each, well-grown chickens at 9d each, gilt-edged butter made from Jersey cows at; Is to Is 3d per lb ; while Tennessee butter ■was quoted at 10d to lid per lb; barrel of flour containing 1951bs was also quoted at 17s. "How is the price of land over there if the produce brings such small returns f "Well, you must remember that land is almost unlimited over in the; States. I notice by the paper that 950 acres of land belonging to Colonel A. H. Stevens is offered for sale at 15 dollars pet acre. Now, I know that land as well as I do Auckland. It is divided into 9small farms. Colonel Stevens was governor of Georgia. The land was within 30 miles of Augusta, one of the oldest cities in the State, and quite close to one of the best lines of Railway in the States." " Is that its proper value, supposing that) the country is so wonderfully prosperous?" , " Well, you see, aslsaid before, there i 3 plenty of land to be got, and after all I suppose that none of the land in the Waikato would at present bring more than £3 per acre." ■ -"■.■ ■ "■■■■' \ ; ,; ■;\r : \ \ '•' " Do you consider that the present pro sperity of the States may be fairly attributed to the proiection policy of the Govern ment ?" » "I have lived in the States,"under both free trade and protection systems, and I know what it means. Before the war, when everythiiigfwas free, I sold whiskey at one shilling per gallon, eggs at 3 cents a dozen, and chickens Jit five cejit§~each. That was free trade. Now t&e prices are higher, as I have already shown you. Under the pro tection system the things are made dearer than before, but then the people have more money in proportion to buy with." >■' ; "Then you are a believer in protection ??' " Yes; I think that all iieiv countries "re quire protection to a certain extent?-;-! mean sufficient to give the local industries a chance to get established. I have seen it tried in the States, and it was. a success: I should like to see it tried.here just to give the manufacturers a Chance , ;" ■/ c' ■"::. ■r, >

THREE KINGS.- MOUNT ROSKILL SCHOOL.

The children of the above school having been kept at work for the full week, were assembled on Saturday morning for a day's enjoyment in the pleasantly-situated and well-sheltered school grounds. There were present 70 or 80 children, j the members of the Committee, and other friends, amongst whom were Mr G. Udy, and Mr and Mrs R. Udy. Races and sport 9 occupied the morning, and at 1 o'clock all sat down to luncheon, when buns, pies and strawberries vanished in a remarkably short 'tiirie; and all were' ready for play again. More races and a number of outdoor games, brought tea time and an hour's social chat, during which satisfaction was expressed at the action of Parliament in refusing to raise the school age, and at the prospect of a revision of the scholarship regulations, it was hoped that the attempt to charge fees would be frustrated. On the question of holidays it was resolved to put it to the,vote, as it was thought unjust to keep the teachers at work while others in the schools near at hand, and in the same employ, were keeping holiday. The chairman, Mr Green wood, put it very fairly to the.children, and the longer term was carried ■ unanimously amidst cheering and clapping, of hands. The chairman, in a neat speech, expressed his satisfaction at the year having termi nated without any complaint - against teachers or committee. .He complimented Mr Richards and Miss Priestly upon having passed through a successful year. Votes of thanks, compliments, and cheers brought to a conclusion a happy dayi

TELEGRAMS.

: Dunedin, this day. Miss Carrie Swain made her first appear ance on Boxing night before a crowded house. Her performance was pronounced a ereafc success.

Tk Aboha, this day. The number of visitors here is. very large no-w, and there is glorious weather.

COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &&, To-night.

Rota ot Justices at Polioe Court December 29-Messre J Giiimrar and J. Gordon

Auction Sales To-morrow IV Co.—Glassware, BasJoftvare, »tc, G. Lewte—Unredeemed Pledp*a, 11 > .b Arthur and Buddle-Fri JO,i»t Cricfcefc

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28. 1887. -

5



To-morrow, at 11 o'clock, Mr Gabriel Lewis will sell an immense lot of un redeemed pledges and some very valuable lots of jewellery—all. well worthy attention of buyers. Onehunga tweed trousers to-measure, at 21s; Smith and Caugbey'e.—(Advt)



Onehunga tweed suits at 47s 6d, at Smith and Caughey's.—(Advt.) Before making your purchases inspect Smith and Caughej's immense stock of clothing and gent's mercery. [Advt].



The matron of the Upper Refuge begs to acknowledge her thanks to Mr A, Kidd for a present of a. quantity of strawberries.



Mrs Davies and Mr MoLean's second con cert in Auckland takes place to-morrow night In the Choral Half, and the pro gramme holds out a rich promise of a very enjoyable eveninp. Seats may be reserved at Kidd and Wildman's, where the box plan lies. On Sunday evening last a very successful open-air Gospel Temperance meeting was held noar the watermen's steps. There was a large and attentive crowd to listen to the speeches, which were effectively given by Messrs J. Brame, T. L. Wilcook and W, B. Cook, Mr J, Tonson Garlick conducted the meeting. At the close twelve total abstinence pledges were taken.