" O pe=,ful fruit conversazione A h^/Te en "i in Waited Mount i»»h<Sn fl! charge of admission Eden lX\-uL which was devoted was «*f§X of the Mount Eden towards the tun w&a a j public WDra,7' J Lamb presiding, attendant odu ; tory remarks by the After a few »« k tll re ™«l chairman, % » of the llbrary . He t° t!l? ".^lfelld'jiad been collected in said that ±fel*" d . the Government the district, "g^id ha d been ex subsidy, •]' ' 8 a standing debt of panto* „ debt of £2 12s, which K lfo iwodd be cleared by that nights j he hoped womci v evening Überol en^Stwere handed round, and the applies otn progr amme was pre followmg f'flhe items being rendered in » ClS bNicS"; -ng, "True Till tion', .. vrr Vebbinfs; musical .selection, fn. trio "Little Farm Well X"V J Salmon. R. Salmon, and THS ical selection, Mrs Nichol &^S Stem's £S Kb and Co., of Oak House, Hob rteet kindly lent an upright grand • S the occasion. At the conclusion 0 i ,i "n all who had assisted, after :SflnyofthL present indulged in a dTht programme for the first annual con i of the" Auckland Football Association Sbe en amongst .our advertisements nJifter perusing it one must admit that £X the advance of a most attrac vp and enjoyable entertainment. It com- Sui'oJpheus quartettes, two string Settes, violin and pianoforte sobs, ivensonos, and two operatic scenas. The SormeiS are leading amateurs and pro gsional musicians, and Heir Carl Schim will be the conductor, which fact in itself affords sufficient guarantee of a successful artistic result. The Queen's Fund Committee will hold a meeting on Monday, sth September, at 330p m., at the Mayor's room, new Muni cipal Buildings, to receive particulars of moneys collected, etc. The following communication was re reived this morning by Messrs Stewart Dawson and Co. from a settler in the \V ha noarei district, as showing what letter- ! witin" can be brought to :— " Messrs Stewart Dawson and Co. Dear .Sirs, —As you appear to be taking the clear lead m supplying timekeepers in these colonies, Thy do you not take the lead of the others by supplying a real Southern Jlcmi mhm watch and clock. The sun, here, going from right to left, why not let your watches co the same, the face and hands king in accordance with the sun ? If the Americans get on this, they will make it go; butl hope to see English makers strike out something new." The "Bible Standard" for the current month contains several articlfs of interest; for its readers, viz., a critique on Rev. P. H. Cotnford's views on the state of the dead, " Gospel Work," " Startling Facts " in connection with the drinking habits'of society, a brief sermon by Mr Henry Exley, an exposition of Chap. 7, Book of Daniel, by Mr Aldridge, "The Question Corner," "Home Circle," and temperance para graphs. An extract for young women on the evils of tight lacing, by the Eev. Mr Baweis, a Church of England clergyman, should command the serious attention of the ladies, for whose special benefit the irtidewas penned. The remaining pages at this interesting issue are devoted to jatry, short essays, current church news, aalafeeling address to subscribers.

Hie glove ' contest, Gamble v. Donovan, eomesoffat the Agricultural Hall to-morrow (Saturday) evening, and as both men .ire in good condition, an excellent exhibition of the "noble art" may be expected. The Sydney man expresses himself confident of vanquishing Donovan,, and already looks forward to meeting Matthews and contest ing for the championship of New Zealand. Donovan may, however, disturb these cal culations, as he has a lot of fight in him and a single eye to victory.

Dr. J. Murray Moore repeated his in teresting lecture, "Ah Evening With Longfellow," last night at the Boys' Kest, Albert-street. There was a fair attend a nee, and during the evening tlie lecture was illustrated with musical selections. , Tlu Rev. J. Chew presided.

Prof. Thomas's Natural History "Talk " at the Museum this evening is advertised to be on the subject of "Snakes and bautians." The " talk "is to commence at 'O'clock, and we are sure that it will Drove interesting to all who have a taste for natural history.-

•?Jo T"nter entertainment in connection ™hft Sepulchre's Sunday-school will be T ! S .(,V iday) evening 'in the Sundaj fchool building. Tea for the children will »c at 6.15 p . m. Bishop Cowie will give Tl c m gained a''the repent exam- There will be music, readings, «&i akoamaeic-lantern exhibition.

The debate Free Trade v. Protection will wee place this evening in the Lecture Hall «H>e V.M.C.A., this being the last debate Thfl"k I 1" Wifch the course of lectures. Larao' ffhlle Mr J. H. Upton will preside. Whv^ AJ- Smifch lasfc evening de- S^^excellent lecture on " J. B. Xli c%vently describing his early £? and res^ation, his especial ora- Xj^3' and his Wrfaithiid, and iKST" 068 ,*° the temP^ance cause, ii tKrr? frcf 2lie"«y applauded, and &S^tt .the Mount Aib«'t Total sS' fl ta, d °" tlle m°ti°n of Mr W. SaS&KiSS of thailks was 4t?thTFotts"S g ihcld last v«weU attendee fr The meeting *«»PwdnK • -^nyimpoi-tant facts 0. BaSk lJ Unn« the lecfcurc by A «'c CmnJ h° m? lits the m» of all Gribblewerem^ rhe two sola<i by Miss a P pr °PriatC and *"&** and the m4L ll n° Cu Cupied the chSr ' m "chgood S Should be Productive of i!feth BrT ßand -about to f ortunata ?£? eff[ f^ncy, and it is J-^PotSff. t0, lea™ Auckland. tO uAr? taPu> w^re he Wefeel 2^? the band in th^ town. R^SKt'JS*^sbould w f^tion tothb2 m directi"g Public 91? V(*v much f*;, We admir° the . r°? the feai"kss way in SSr dS*o oS n!''3 Ph-p b«.» &„ *ji hS? 5^ d p™'lß?,'»d° s° »o «&"«' Butter 2 t<"moV ro"'we slulll

We learn that the nature of the bus'ness transacted at a meeting of directors of the Moanataiari G.M. Company has been misrepresented. In the absence of authori tative information, a rumour got abroad to the effect that the London agent had been instructed to accept £20,000 for the mine. This, however, is in correct. The facts are that the direc tors met on Monday, when the matter of the recent offer by an English syndi cate of £20,000 for the mine was con sidered. It was announced that no reply had yet been received to the cable gram forwarded to the Company's repre sentative on London some days ago, author ising him to accept £30,CG0 in cash, or fail ing'tnis being obtainable to take the sum of £20 000 cosh" and shares in the new Com pany to the extent of £10,000. The time given to the London agent for the floating of a Company was till the end of August, and this having expired, it was decided toeabletohim,andask whatprospect there was of carrying out the proposals of the Company as indicated above, and what extension of time he would require for the floating of the Company. This, we understand, was the whole effect of the telegram, an answer to which is daily ex pected.

Captain Fairchild, who was in town to day, has furnished some additional particn. lars respecting the loss of the ketch Recamia at Kaipora,' He found her sunk and stand ing- upright in five or six fathoms of water, having settled down on her bottom. She was full of water and coukl not be moved. All that drifted ashore from her was an oar, so that it is probable everything on deck had been made fast in readiness for taking the bar. With reference to the insurance policy on the life of Captain Conway, master of the missing schooner Columbia, Mr Speight, of^ the Government Insurance Department.states that noclaim hasyctbeen made, nor even any notification of death re ceived, so that no difficulty could have arisen in the office. A man named Berger, employed at M r J. C. Firth's new mill, met with a painful ac cident this afternoon. A brick fell a dis tance of 20 feet and struck Berger on the head, causing a deep wound. He was taken to Mr Hill's, Chemist, where his in juries were dressed, and then sent home to his residence, Stanley-street, in a cab. The Graf ton Band of Hope held their monthly entertainment on Thursday even ing,, and it was largely attended. Mr John m-ton occupied the chair and delivered an ..ecllent address, showing the numerous advantages to be derived from a life of con sistent sobriety. The choir sang reveral hymns from Hoylo's Temperance collection. The musical programme included pianoforte duets and solos by Misses Allies, Bennett, and Tring, a spirited and eloquent address by Mr Cook, of the Gospel Temperance Mission a song by Mr Jones, and recitations by Miss Webley and Mr Caughey. An evangelistic service was held las*' ni"ht in St. Luke's Presbyterian Church' Remuera. Rev. J. S. Hill conducted the meeting, and spoke on the words, " What will you do with Jesus ?" He gave a very eloquent address, which was listened to with great attention. There was an after meeting, when the rev. gentleman made the'plan of salvation clear. The meeting will be addressed to-night by Rev. Gilmore, Ponsonby. ■ "Oh !" she said, "you may talk about Hugo's Minstrels-; they may make you laugh and cause you to forget your troubles for a time, but for real fun and solid satis faction you should be at our house when the week's provisions come in. The chil dren clan their hands, and shout and dance around, and there is real joy in the house at the sight of prime Canterbury bacon from 3d ; Factory cheese, 3d ; corned butter, 6d; splendid tea : Is 4d ; candles, 4£d ; prime Mogul coffee, Is, &c., from Co-operative Stores, City Market. "—John Eaton, Man ager. [Advt.]

THE-SEAMEN'S STRIKE.

A JUBILEK STEAHSBIP COMPANY.

Assistance Tendered by the

Austral ssm Union.

There is now little doubt that the Sea

men's Union mean to carry out the strike against reduced wages pro posed by the Northern Steam Shipping Company to the bitter 6nd,' and it is now also pretty evident that the necessary funds will be forthcoming. The strike has received much attention not only in this colony, but throughout Australasia, and information has now been received that the Australian Unions will join issue with the New Zealand combina tions in order to provide the sinews of Avar. With this end in view a levy of 2s 6d per man has been made througout Australia and New Zealand on 23,000 seamen now in employment, and this will provide a monthly income of very nearly £3,000, over and above any votes made from the accumulated funds.

The only additional information respect ing the steamers chosen to represent the Union is contained in a cablegram received Mr Millar to-day. It is to the effect that the Bellringer will be sent from Sydney in the place of the Collaroy The Bellringer is an iron screw steamer of 224 tons gross and 143 tons net register, with engines of 45 h.p. Her dimensions are 1250 x 221 x 87. She was built at Paisley in 1884, and is owned by the Belfast and Kowit Steam Navigation Company of Belfast.

The steamers are to be manned by Union men, preference being given to those thrown out of employment, owing to the stand taken by the Northern Steamship Company re the reduction of wages, and the crews engaged to bring the steamers to this port will have their passages paid back to Sydney or Southern "ports if desired. Several local and popular skip pers who have been out of employment for some time past are eager for engagements on the opposition steamers, and it is probable that the masters and officers will be all Aucldanders.

The Union have determined to call their line the Jubilee Steam Shipping Company, and they invite tenders for providing their vessels by advertisement in to-day's issue.

VOLUNTEER EXAMINATION.

(BY TELECRAPH—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Wellington, this day. A kep&rt has been circulated that the ex amination of candidates for Volunteer com missions was made less stringent in orde 1' that certain Wanganui officers might pass. The " Post" says : " On reference to the De partment we understand that the failure of the Wanganui candidates. had nothing special to do with the circular upon the subject of the recent examinations. The change of standard from 50.t0 75 per cent, of marks to be attained as a qualification for commission wasonlymadeinihineandproved to be too severe for the officers examined in the next month, the great majority throughout the colony having failed. The Defence Minister, therefore, on Major- General Whitmore's recommendation, can celled the June circular in this respect, and the standard till then in force, and under which all the other officers who have passed received their commissions, will apply also to the last examination, and for the future 60 marks will be the minimum of qualifica tion for candidates,"

ELECTION NOTES.

The adjourned Committee meeting of Mr Goldie's supporters will be held this evening in the upstairs Lodge-room of the Foresters' Hall, Karangahape Road, at 7.30. On Tuesday evening last a large number were in attendance, and very satisfactory reports were furnished as to the results so far ac complished. As only some live or six ad ditional Committee meetings can be hold previous to the election, it is important that every member of the Committee should be present.

Major Atkinson does not appear to be in any doubt as to the result of the Eginont contest. He is still in Wellington.

Mr W. B. Gibbs having, in response to a requisition, decided to contest Kelson seat instead of Motueka, addressed a large meet ing last night. He supports the Govern ment, and received a vote of thanks.

Mr J. W. Bain, formerly member for In vveroargill, addressed the Awarua electors last night at North Invercargill, and received a vote of confidence by a small majority. He declared himself opposed to the present Government.

Mr J. H. Hopkins, storekeeper, Woolston, announces himself a candidate for Heath cote in the Opposition interest. Mr Hobbs held a meeting of village settlers in Mr Mariner's jrum store at Taheke, and recei ,-cd a unanimous vote of thanks and confidence.

(BY TELEGRAPH. • OWX CO-RESPONDENT.)

The Premier's Scat in Danger. Dunedi.v, this day,

As showing the extreme jeopardy in which the seat of the Premier is placed, it may be mentioned that he is making a house-to-house canvas. Hitherto Sir .Robert Stout has resolutely refused to personally solicit votes.

At Tapanuilast night Captain McKenzie, candidate for Waikari. refering to Sir Robert Stout's action on theßible in schools question, said that the Premier had ceased to beaFreethinkerand was now aMethodist.

Wanganui, Thursday. Mr Stevens, one of the candidates for Rangitikoi, in addressing the electors last night said he was opposed to the Govern ment. In alluding to the purchase of the Waimarino block, for which the Govern ment paid him 2d per acre, he said-that the whole cost of the block, including expenses, . was 7s 6d per acre, and it had been pur chased within a year, whereas the Otama kapui block purchase, begun by Sir Donald McLean and finished by Mr Bryce, ex tended over some six years, and rose in price from 7s 6d to 10s before it was finished. Mr Bryce in the House stated that the land was not worth the.incidental expenses, which were £10,000, and in the case of the Rangitikci-Manawatu block £20,000, the purchase of the latter also ex tending over some years. He contended that his services were worth £2,700, and without them the Government would not have procured. 1,500,000 acres, let alone 417,000.|

Invekcaroill, this day.

Sir Robert Stout will probably visit Invercargill next week and address the electors.

ARTILLERY BANQUET.

A very pleasant and enjoyablo meeting of Volunteers and their friends took place last night at the Albert Hotel, the occasion being; a complimentary banquet by the officers, N.C. officers and men and honorary members of the A Battery New Zealand Reg. Artillery to Major H. G. Payne on his promotion. Ihe dinner was laid in the large room, which was tastefully decorated with flags, banners, mottoes suitable to the occasion, &c. A star composed of swords and ramrods was very pretty. About 120 sat down to dinner, which was. served in the host's very, best style, and comprised all the delicacies of the season. The chair was occupied by Lieut. Geddes, on whose right sat Major Payne (the guest of the evening), and Col. Dignan, Com mander No. 2 Battalion, K.V., and on the left His Worship the Mayor (an honorary member of the A Battery) and Dr. Ten nent. Among the guests were Col. Mahon (Commander of No. 3 Battalion, R.V.), Capt. Dr Erson(Commander H. Troop N.Z. Cavalry), Capt. Seymour George (0. Bat tery), Capt. Hulse (in full dress Naval u .!ifor'm),l3r. Walker,Lt. Elmes (Engineers), Lieut. Homers (Victoria ltilies), Capt. Self (Quaiter Master No. 2 Battalion R.V.) and a number of honorary mem bers of the battery and volunteers of other companies. Nearly all the volunteer companies were represented. After ample justice had been done to the good things provided the Chairman read letters of apology from Bishop Cowie (Honorary Chaplain of the Battery,) Major Hauilin, and several others. The Chair man proposed the usual loyal toast?, which were jnlyhonorcd. Mr Ehrenfred proposed the toast.'.' Army, Navy and Volunteers " in an appropriate manner, and referred to the services rendered by the Volunteers of Auckland during the Maori War. Sergeant Major Has! em. responded for the Army, Mr Cairns (Honorary Member) for the Navy, and Col. Dignan for the Volunteers. The Chairman proposed "The Health of Major Payne, our guest," and remarked that the pleasure in proposing the health of his old friend and superior officer was one he could not forego, and lie believed the promotion of Major Payne would be hailed with delight from the North Cape to Southland. He believed no Volunteer in New Zealand was more beloved or respected than their noble guest. He could speak of his many estimable qualities, and how he had endeared himself to all ranks in the Bat tery, for he had known him for 21 years, and could bear testimony that he had always done his duty manfully. As a gunner or N.C.O. he could not be beaten,as a sdb'veteran officer could not be equalled, and as a.captain could.not be surpassed. The toast was drunk with musical honours, and " He's a Jolly Good Fellow." Major Payne, on rising to respond, was enthusiastically cheered, and it was some time before the gallant Major could obtain a hearing. He hoped those present would excuse him if he broke down, as he felt somewhat carried away by his feelings. He could not, however, but feel proud at seeing so many of his friends present —past Volunteers and civilians. He referred to the time when he was a gunner under our present worthy Mayor, and attributed his promotion to a great extent to anotbei* old friend present —Sergeant-Major Haslcm - (cheers) who ad ministered the oath of allegiance to him (Major Payne) on the 24th March, { 1866, and from that time to the present he had been his right hand. Al though promoted he had no intention of deserting the Battery, but would be with them at all times and ready to render any assistance in his power to the battery in particular and the regiment in general. He thanked all branches of the services for being present, but could not find words to express the gratification he felt. He felt more at ease with the guns of the battery than responding on that oc casion. He again heartily thanked them all for their kindness to him that night, and would do all in his power to assist his successor in maintaining the battery in its efficient condition. Sergeant Major Haslem wished to bear testimony to Major Payne's admirable qualities. He had found

himtheheart of asoldier—asagunner always punctual on parade and as an officer always acted as a gentleman ; had never met his equal. Toast. " Commerce of Auckland," proposed by Captain Erson in his usual racy style,ai:d lesponded to by His WtNhip the Mayor. The '' Chairman " was proposed by the Mayor, and suitably acknowledged. The toasV'Our Guests,"" " The Ladies," " The Press,'' and "Our Host and Hostess." were all duly honoured. Daring the even ing- some excellent songs were rendered by Corporal Parslow, Bloxam and others, and Captain Erson recited " The Charge of the Light Brigade," which gave immense satisfaction. Those pre sent at last night's meeting will number it as one of the pleasantest and most .enjoyable ever spent in Auckland. Major Payne may feel assured that he is held in very high esteem by all branches of the Volunteer service. The committee de serve great credit lor the very successful manner in which the whole arrangements were conducted.

SERIOUS CHARGE AGAINST A SEWING MACHINE AGENT.

(BY TELKORArH—OWX CORRESPONDENT.)

Invercabgiill, this day. At Riverton, yesterday, Michael Lyttel ton was charged with indecently assaulting Catherine McFeoly, at Otaitai bush on the 27th August. The accused, a widower with a family, is the Invercargill agent for the Werthcim Sewing Machine Company, and the complainant is the wife of a farmer. Evidence was given to the effect that the accused drove up to the house in a trap, and began a conversation about sew ing machines. Observing no one in the room of the house, ho entered uninvited, caught hold of Mrs McFeely and pulled hot down on a chair, but it broke, and while Lyttelton was lying on his back on the floor the complainant rushed outside and ran away to a neighbour's house. Ac cused then drove off, but was afterwards arrested and charged with the offence. The Bench committed him for trial at next sittings of the Supreme Court, bail being fixed at £100 for himself and two sureties of £50 each. This not being forthcoming, accused was lodged in the Invercargill gaoL

OPERA HOUSE.—"WANDA."

Mr Geo. Leitcii's adaptation of Ouida's novel bearing the above title was produced at the Opera House last night, but only achieved a aucces d'ex time. This result is .-solely attributed to the inherent defects of the play, for there was nothing lacking either in the mounting or in the acting to ensure for it a most favourable reception. It is a singular fact that the majority of stage adaptations of popular novels impress one with an un satisfied feeling, and Mr Leitch's effort forms no exception to the rule. In this play, too, tho leading characters are not calculated to evoke much sympathy from a colonial and democratic audience. We have notsullicient veneiationfor tho absurd distinctions of caste and the vaunted sacredness of blue blood to recognise any thing fine in Wanda's separation from a faithful husband, with whom she had lived in happiness for ten years, simply because she discovers that he has been basely born, nor can we admire the abject submisrfion of that husband when the dis covery is made known. The other loading character (the Countess Olga) is one of those women of unlovely traits whom only Ouida can paint. The Princess Ottalie (Wanda's mother) is the truest woman of them all. Besides, Ouida leads up naturally to a kind of tragic denouement, and the playwright's deviation from these lines, in order to effect a happy termination, culminates in a kind of anti-climax. Passing by the weakness of the piece, we can congratulate the management upon the richness and taste with which it Mras mounted. Tho scenery painted by Mr Hennings was a really artistic display of pictorial talent, and the characters were costumed with that be coming elegance and fidelity for which the Majeronis are justly celebrated. Signora Majeroni gave a powerful portraiture of the title role, leaving nothing to be desired ex cept the feeling that the character were one more worthy her great and versatile talents. Very fine also was Signor Majeroni's im personation of the husband who so bitterly suffers for having practised that kind of deceit of which Claude Melnotfce is the illustrative type. Miss Lucia Harwood sus tained the part of the unscrupulous and de signing Countess Olga with marked ability, ami Mi- Jewitt acquitted himself with sig nal credit as Prince Egon. Misses Ethel and Mabel Appleton exhibited remarkable histrionic aptitude in the children's parts of the Counts Bela and Gela, while Mrs Gor don as the Princess Ottalio and Mr Law rence as AH (Olga's " black beetle," as she calls him) did full justice to the characters with which they were entrusted.

"Marie Antoinette" To-nitflit

In the production of " Marie Antoinette " to-night a singularly great treat is offered to playgoers. This striking historical drama v.'as written expressly for and by request of Madame Ristori. The author presents the unfortunate consort of .Louis XVI., of Fiance, in the most eventful moments of her life ; firstly, amid the splendour of her Court fetes, tortured with anxieties in con sequence of the revolutionary spirit, and trembling every moment for the security of her children and of the king. It further.depicts the Queen menaced by the infuriated fisherwomen and sans culottes of Paris and lastly, as the adviser of the irresolute Louis XVI. The author also presents the picture of the progress of the under revolutionary Robespierre. In the meanwhile, Marie Antoinette, a prisoner in her palace and a prey to the most cruel apprehensions on account of the capture of the King and family during their flight to Varennes, is assaulted in her own chamber by a mob, led by Santerre ; but her tears check their fury, and they re tire humiliated. The king afterwards listens to the advice of the Assembly and consents to swear to the Constitution. The drama then shows the royal family at the prison of the Temple. The king has been sentenced to death, and requests as a last favour an interview with his family, from whom he tries to conceal his awful doom. But it .is vain—the secret is revealed by the presence of the confessor, who appears in order to administer the last sacrament. In the two last tableaux Marie Antoinette is in a narrow cell in the Conciergerie grief stricken by the death of Louis XVI., and suffering under the added anguish of an en forced separation from her children. The last tableau depicts the resignation of Marie Antoinette in submitting to her fate. The play may be concisely epitomised as follows: Prologue—Time 1786. The Royal Actors. Act I, 1789, the fifth of October. Revolu tion at Versailles. Act 11, 1792, the tenth of August. The Tuileries, surrounded by the Sans Culottes and the Brewer San terre, Act 111, 1793, evening of the twen tieth of January. The Tower of the Temple. Last Supper of the King. The Separation. Act IV, 1793, morning of the twenty-first of January. A Dream, the Funeral March. Epilogue, 1793, morning of the sixteenth of October. The Con ciero-erie, The Last Moments of the Queen, The°Executioner.

The management of the Choral Hall Skating Rink, in deference to the wish of the majority of their patrons, have deter mined to extend the season for another four weeks.

A SEQUENCE OF FIRES.

No less than three fires occurred yesterday afternoon, last night, and early this morn ing. We append the particulars j—

Fire at Epsom

About 3 o'clock yesterday afternoon Mr Chas. J. Aickin, bank clerk, who resides in an eight-roomed house between the resi dences of Dr. Fox and Mr Esam, Owen's Road, Epsom, left home with his wife and infant for the purpose of taking a stroll. Some 15 or 20 minutes afterwards Mrs Fox perceived smoke and flamed issuing from the kitchen of Aickin's house and gave the alarm, while Mrs E. Mahoney (another neighbour) hurried after the Aickins, and meeting them as they were returning along Stokes's Road at 3.30, apprised them of the occurrence. Meanwhile they had got out some £30 or £40 worth of furniture, but their and Mr Aickin's eiiorts to save the building were unsuccessful. It was burnt to the ground. With some difficulty, how ever, the flames were prevented from extending to Dr. Fox's and Mr Esam's houses. The fire originated in the kitchen lange, where Mr. Aickin says a little fire had been left, and it spread thence to a sideboard. The furniture and effects were insured in the North British for £180, and the loss is said to be about £30 over and above the insurance. The build ing is ownod by Mr Chas. Williamson (land and estate agent), and was insured in the South British—the house for £325 and the stable for £25.

Fire in Nelson-street

About 8.30 o'clock last night an outbreak of tiro took placj in an unocciujiod iive roonied cottage in Nelson-street, belonging to Mr J nines Ballantine. The cottage is one of two under the same roof, and with a single story at the street front, but two stories at the back, The Fire Brigade, under Superintendent Hughes, speedily responded to the alarm, and finding that the lire had got beneath the shingles, they had to tear off a portion of the roof before they could effectually ex tinguish it, and by the time that had been accomplished the unoccupied cottage was pretty well gutted. This portion of the building had been occupied until Saturday last by a Mrs Roberts, the wife of a seaman. The other cottage was and is occupied by a Mrs Ren ton, whose husband is working at St. Holier's Bay. During yesterday, Mr Ballantine was present at the cottage super intending some repairs by, a man named David Watson, whose wife was also en gaged in scrubbing out. For her use Mr Ballantine lib a lire, but he carefully extinguished it himself on leaving and locking up ;it 0 o'clock. Mrs Ren ton states that about fifteen minutes before the outbreak was discovered she heard some person pass along the steps leading from Nelson-street and alongside the unoccupied house to the backyard, and then she heard footsteps about the kitchen. Shortly afterwards Mrs Grace (a neighbour) ran in and informed her of the fire. Mrs Grace, it appears, was out in. her own yard when she saw smoke rising from the kitchen of the unoccupied cottage, and immediately afterwards flames bursting through. She then gave the alarm. Until the arrival of the brigade, Messrs Edw. Campton and Moulden did good service by throwing bucketsful of water upon the lire and thus materially stayed its progress. The Salvage Corps, under Captain Field, saved most of Mrs Kenton's furniture, which was quite uninsured. Mr Ballantine bad the two cottages insured in the New Zealand Insurance Company for £250.

Suspicious Fire at Newmarket

At a quarter past one o'clock this morn ing Mr A. Holdt, occupying |one of a block of four two-story wooden shops in Newmarket, and belonging1 tb Mr P. (i. Clayton called upon Constable Collis at tho Newmarket I'olice Station, and informed him of an outbreak of fire in the shop adjoining Heldt's own. The con stable hastened thither along with his informant, and found ilames blazing1 just inside the shop-window of the Misses Home's dressmaking establishment, and in the corner adjoining Heldt's shop from which it is separated merely by a boarded partition. The two men entered, and quenched the fire with a few buckets ful of water. The constable made an ex amination of the premises, and found the window pane of the shop broken, and a large stone lying on (he boarded floor. He retained the stone. The only properly upon the premises were some dresses and two sewing machines. The shop was rented by Misses Emily and Sarah Home and they were working there in the upstairs portion until 11.30 last night. They had two kerosene lamps burning but these were carefully put out before leaving, and every thing was left in apparent security. About 1 o'clock this morning Mr Heldt was aroused by his wife, who said she had heard a noise next door and smelt smoke. He at once got up, and through the window of the adjoining shop saw a fire burning, whereupon he run off to the police station. The Misses Home were wholly uninsured. Constable Collins had passed the building at 12.20, and nothing then attracted his attention. Mr F. G. Clayton ha? the four shops insured with the South British Company for £1,250.

Fire in Siiortland-strect

On Thursday morning a fire was dis covered at the back of Mr Murchic's, tailor's shop, on the north side of Short land-street. The alarm was speedily given, and in a short time the Fire Bridage had the fire extinguished, a washhouse being gutted and its contents being destroyed. The origin of the fire is accounted for by the fact than an ash-box was kept in the wash house. Mr Murchio estimates his loss about £10, he was uninsured.

(BY TELEGRAPH—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Gheymouth, this day.

Fire at Greymoutli

About 4 o'clock yesterday morning a fire broke out in Mackay-street in the Masonic Hall, in which is Grey mouth Public Lib rary and reading-room and several offices. The fire spread rapidly through the build ing, and though the tiremen were quickly on the scene it was impossible to save the building. A very large proportion of the books of the Library were saved, but the furniture andiittingso'f theinstitutionwere destroyed. All the Masonic regalia aud the property of the Order were also burnt. By dint of great exertions the fire was confined to the building. Mr Felix Campbell's wholesale store had a narrow escape, and a great quantity of his stock was removed for a time. The flying sparks mr.de it very dangerous for all buildings round about but fortunately there was no wind. The build ing was insured for £500 in the Equitable office, £500 in the South British ; the read ing room, books, and furniture for £200 in the Standard; the Masonic Regalia of lodges and chapter £170 in the New Zea land ; £130 on the furniture and £40 on the harmonium.

The popular temperance cantata " The Rescue of Harry Gray " will be given by the members of St. David's choir in St. David's Church, Symonds-street, this (Friday) even ing, commencing at 8 o'clock. Mr J. H. Edmondes will act as conductor, and Mr J. J. Boak as reader.

Working Men.-—Before you begin your heu,vy spring work after a winter of relaxation your system needs cleansing and strengthening o prevent an attack of bilious or spring foyers tor sickness that will unfit you for a season' work. You will save time, sickness and expense if you will use one bottle of American Co.'s Hop Bitters in your family this month. Don't wait. Read,

DR. GIRDLER AND THE SANI TARY CONDITION OF THE CITY.

«• The following letter has been forwarded to the City Council in reply to a request from the Town Clerk for the names aud resi dences of those two thousand persons whom Dr. Girdler alleged were depositing the con tents of their night-soil boxes within the city :— " Westminster Lodge, Kyber Pass. Sir,—ln answer to your request that I should give you the names and addresses of the people who empty their night-soil in their gardens, I beg to point out that Mr Philips, Town Clerk, seems to beunder some misapprehension as to the duties of his Sani tary Inspector. I was under the impression that it was part of his (the Sanitary Inspec tor's) duty to find out, and prevent, any nuisance. However, I will with pleasure inform you how to obtain the necessary in formation. Mr Maurice Casey, the con tractor, has told me he will be most happy to furnish you with any information, and, at the same time, will allow you to inspect his books. By these means you will find out the names and addresses of all those he attends, and the time of service. He will also tell you the number of boxes he empties is under 4,500, and, as many houses have two or three boxes, the number of houses he collects from is not more than 4,000. Mr John King, Census Enumerator, informed me that there were 6,551 inhabited houses in the six City Wards :— Inhabited houses 6,551 Houses collected from by Mr Casey 4,C00 Houses connected with the City Drainage System, about .. .. 700 4,700 Total I^Bsl This will,l think, leave a balance of 1,851 houses unaccounted for, but this does not in clude warehusesorschools, and as I have said before, many houses have more than one box. I think I am under the mark when I put the number at 2,000. Mr Casey can also inform you that in one house 19 families ut6 four boxes, and in another case 27 persons, in three houses, have one box, which is emptied fortnightly, the surplus soil running over the ground. It was bearing in mind these facts that I put the number at the lowest, as 2,C00. I have, etc., G. Toussaint Girdler.

NEWMARKET BOROUGH COUNCIL.

The Newmarket Borough Council met last evening, the Mayor (Mr W. J. Suiter) pre siding. There were also present: Crs. Lumpkin, Edgeriey, Clayton, Bishop, Whisker, Kent, and Rose. It was decided to pay Messrs Magee and Mulverhill's ac count for drainage, £60, as soon as possible. A letter from Mrs McGuire, asking relief from payment of rates, was referred to Legal and Finance Committee. Messrs Boylan and Lundon wrote, with reforence to the recent -water works arbitration case, that as the case was not in any way an investigation into the stability, efficiency, or economy of the work, consequently Mr Lundon was never called upon for an expression of opinion as to whether it was satisfactorily com pleted or not. Mr Keesing, the umpire, concurs in this. Cr. Bishop moved, " That the services of the engineer be dis pensed with." Cr. Clayton seconded the motion. Cr. Whisker said that in justice tp the engineer it oughb to be said that there was no further work for him in the borough. In discharging Air Knox they should do it kindly. The Mayor said that Mr Knox, in the discharge of his duties as engineer of the borough, had been most faithful and attentive. Though he might perhaps have taken advantage of the Coun cillors in one or two ways, he had only acted as a 'cute business man would have done. Whether they could do without an engineer was a question; he thought they could not. It was not every day they would find a man who would work for two and a-half per cent. Mr Knox was an engineer of considerable ability, and the re sult of the arbitration had proved that he was right and they were wrong. He thought they should reinstate him as engineer of the borough; for if they decided to procure the services of another engineer they would not find one who would do the work for less than 5 per cent. After the lapse of a little time they would have to undertake other large works—as drainage, etc. Cr Whisker thought the borough did not require the services of an engineer. However, if it was necessary that one should be employed, he contended that Mr Knox should be retained, and he therefore moved, " That Mr Knox be reinstated as the engineer of theßorough of Newmai'ket." This amendment lapsed for want of a seconder, and the motion was carried. The Legal and Finance Committee re commendecl that a licensing by-law be framed. That J. Wilson be gazetted dog inspector. That the Jubilee license having been cancelled the license fee be returned to Mr Protheroe. It was resolved '' That the Council, or any three members of the Council, as a majority may determine, give a guarantee to the Bank for an over draft of £300, that sum to be expended in liquidating the debts already incurred by this Council, and that no other moneys be spent, or debts be contracted other than any required for the purpose of maintain ing the roads in an efficient state, together with wages and the necessary working ex penses of the Council, till such time as the overdraft in full be repaid to the Bank out of the revenue." The motion was carried, the Mayor and Messrs Lumpkin and Whisker consenting to give the necessary guarantee.

POLICE COURT—THIS DAY.

(Before Messrs W. R. Waddel and H. G.

Wade, J.P.s)

Drunkenness. —Two men and a woman were punished for this offence. Mendicancy.—James Keogh was charged with a breach of the Police Offences Act by placing himself in a public place to beg.—Prisoner pleaded guilty, and Detec tive Hughes gave evidence to the effect that prisoner was begging in Queen-street. —The Bench took a lenient view of the case, and discharged the prisoner with a caution.

False Pretexts.—George Henry Adams was charged with imposing on one Thomas William Deacon by means of fraudulent re presentations.—Mr Theo. Cooper appeared for the prosecution, and represented that accused had made over to prosecutor his in terest in the passage tickets which he had obtained to enable him to proceed to Eng land by the Kaikoura, and he also made a_ promise to settle up with Deacon when his next remittance arrived, two months hence.—The Bench, however, sentenced him to one month's imprisonment with hard labour.

Larceny.—Robert Murray was charged with the larceny of a silver Waltham watch, value £3, the property of John Francis.— Prisoner pleaded not guilty, John Francis, Joseph Ludlow and Sergeant Kioly gave evidence, the prosecutor stating that he was drinking with the accused and was robbed of the watch while he was under the influence of liquor. Prisoner said he got the watch as a present from complainant. •—Two months' imprisonment with hard labour,

WELLINGTON NOTES.

(by telegraph. —owx correspondent. ) !

Wellington, this day. .^ A Clmrcli Squabble. The congregation of St. Mark's is divided1 on two cuiestions, and the attempts of the incumbent to throw oil on the troubled waters have so far been unavailing. It ap pears that some time ago a majority of the vestry decided that the church should ba' enlarged, and that all the pews should bd considered free after 'the last bell has ceased ringing. Many of the parishioners who pay pew rents object' strongly to having their seats jumped if they are a little late, and some of them also consider that there is no necessity for enlarging the building. White's History. Messrs Lyon and Blair, the leading firm of booksellers and printers, have purchased1 from the Government the entire first edition (2250) volumes of "White's History of fcho. Ancient Maori," on condition that anew edition is not issued until the whole of the first has been sold. Arclideacon Stock. The venerable Archdeacon Stock, who is in poor health, is making arrangements to visit Te Aroha Hot Springs. Cold JBeceptiou for Otago \ Footballers. Comment has been caused by the fact) that only seven local footballers assembled to greet the Otago team on arrival from Napier, although a Reception Committee of twenty and the whole of the Wellington team were expected to be present. 'The: " Post" considers the fact one which the Wellington footballers should be thoroughly ashamed of. The position of the French and German j master at the Wellington College and Girls'' High School is to be offered to a resident of, Auckland, whose services the Board of Governors are anxious to obtain.

OUR GOLDFIELDS

(BY TELEGRAPH—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Coromandel, this day. Royal Oak.—For the past week there is but little of importance to report from the mine. The rise is going up slowly owing to the nature of the ground to be operated upon ; but I am in hopes of the ground get-: ting better working upwards. By the end; of the week there will be another breaking down of the reef, when something good may be looked for, as there is still gold showing in the face. Tributer Mayn has crushed what they had on hand, viz.,2cwt of stone, for bQhoz gold. They are croas-cutting and taking out an underhand stope without coming on anything. They have also let a contract of 50 feet to cut No 2 cross lead lower down the winze.

THAMES NOTES.

(BY TELEGRAPH. —OWN CORRESPONDENT.) Thames, this day. Hie Ilikntaia Leases. Mr Stratford, Warden, is decidedly against granting licenses for. such large areas as thirty acres, pegged out at Hikutaia as a licensed holding. Borough Nominations. Messrs J. Wilson, G. Brown, and T. H. Crawford have been nominated for the vacancy in the North Ward of the Boroueh Council. • ""M * - s David Lindsay, licensee of the Queen's Hotel, was to-day fined £5 and costs for selling liquor after hours.

ONEHUNGA LICENSING COM MITTEE.

The quarterly meeting of the Onehunga Licensing Committee was held in the Court house, Onehunga, yesterday, at noon. The following Licensing Commissioners were present:—J. D. Jackson (Chairman), W. Bray, W. Brierly, A. Trollope, and R. Webb, Esqs.

Tiiansfees.—Mr Baume applied for a transfer of the license of the Exchange Hotel from Henry Killduff to Miriam : Stewart.—Mr Brieriy inquired as to what).; was known of Miss Stewart. — Sergeant { Green stated that he had only known Miss < Stewart for a short time, but considered it-i undesirable that single women should be licensees of hotels.—Mr Baume produced a j lease showing the bona fide of the case, and stated that Miss Stewart had consider- j able experience in the management of i hotels. He also produced a petition signed by ten respectable residents of the im- | mediate neighbourhood.—After some dis- j cussion the transfer was granted.

DEATH OF MR HENRY CHURTON.

(BY TELEGRAPH. —OWN CORREKrONDF.XT.)

Wanganui, f.-::s day. Mr Henry Churton, who died bore yester day, was at one time very wealthy, but died almost poor in consequence of having gone guarantee to the Bank for another person. It is probable that the College for Maoris, founded by him, will have to be closed in consequence.

CHARITY COMIC OPERA.

(BY TELEGRAFU. — OWN CORRESPONDENT.) H

Duxedin, this day. The performance by the lolanthe amateur company the first three nights netted £270, which will pay expenses. The takings to night and to-morrow will therefore be de voted to charities.

COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &c. To-night.

Abbott's Opera House—Majeroni Company in '• Marie Antoinette," 8 Bell's Buildings. Wyndham-street — Industrial Association's Exhibition, 7.30 to 10 Olympia Hall, Grey-street—Skating Rink, 7.30 to 10 St. David's Church.Symond-street—Temperance Cantata, " The Rescue of Harry Gray," 8. St. Luke's and Onehunga Presbyterian Churches —Evangelistic Services, 7.30 Boatshed, Devonport—Members of late Devon port Naval Artillery, 8 Remuera School—Untertainment, 7.30 Drill-shed — Auckland, Ponsonby, and Waite rpata » aval Artillery, 7.30 British Hotel—Members of Beef and Beer F. Clubs, 8 V.M.C.A. Rooms—Debate, "Protection v. Free Trade," 7.30 Waite's Hall, Mount Eden — Committee and supporters of Mr J. A. Connell, 7.30 Committee-room, Devonport—Committee of Wv R.Wood, 7.30 Ellerslie Public Hall—Entertainment, 8 Otahulm Public Hall—Franklin Lodge of Odd fellows' Ball, 8 Museum-Professor Thomas on "Snakes and Saurians," 8 St. Sepulchre's School-room —Children's Enter tainment, 6.15 Robaon's Rooms—Auckland L'eaortaWUMß; Lodge Boom. Korestera' Hall—Mr V, hfolal&M Committee, 7.30

Auction Sales So-menrtf**1,

S. Coehrane and Son—l 99 Shares la T, S, MorfM DJEvang-Household Furniture, etc, 10.50.

5

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STA&, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER % 188*.