paring the stay ofH.M. S . Cormorant at Rarotonga last month, that island was the scene of a continual round of amusements en d gaieties. The war-ship l ay f or a week in the " rat-trap harbour, as it has been dubbed-her object in calling being to get a supply of firewood and cotton-seed for fuel, as she had run short of coal. The commander paid ±--300 for those kinds of fuel, and meant to call at Tahiti for coal o f which there were only nve tons in her bunkers. The correspondent from whose letter we extract these particulars says nothing about the commander having ex pressed a desire to have Rarotonga made a British coaling station, and the statement doubtless had its origin in the fact of the Cormorant being short of fuel. The Cormor ant's men had leave ashore every evening while the vessel was in harbour, and all enjoyed themselves thoroughly, declaring it to be their happiest time since leaving England 2$ years ago. Queen Makea gave a state reception to the officers, and" the leading chiefs gave presents of pigs, fowls, fruit, vegetables and mats. Two cricket matches were played by the Bluejackets and Rarotongans, the visitors proving victorious in both. A ball was given by Mr Exham, Actingßritish Consul, when thatgentleman's liberal hospitality was enjoyed to the utmost. The settlers, traders and natives of Raro tonga are so warm in their reception of strangers that it is greatly to be desired that the establishment of English rule over the Cook group of islands might be accom plished and lead to more frequent visits being paid to that interesting land, which was the cradle of the New Zealand Maoris, and is still closely allied to this colony by ties of commerce and friendship. The Cormorant left Rarotonga on November 24th

There was no sitting of the R.M. Court to-day.

A party of marines from the squadron to the number of 130 were landed at the North Shore this morning and proceeded to the Takapuna racecourse for the purpose of goir.g through their usual weekly shore drill.

A boy of some six or seven years of named Alfred Mann, who resides at Clarence-street, Ponsonby, fell into a well in Mr B. Keanc's brick yard, Customs etreet, about 4 p.m. yesterday. A com panion named Arthur Head gave the alarm to Mr W. G. Garrard, who was in the vicinity, and who rushed to the spot just in time to save the sinking boy. The child was conscious when recovered, but was pretty full up with water, and thoroughly exhausted. After being attended to by Mr Garrard the boy was sent home, none the •worse.

" Encouragement to local industry" is the cry elsewhere than in New Zealand. The Chamber of Agriculture at Papeete, Tahiti, has resolved upon expending 10,000 francs in fostering the cultivation of Sea Island cotton by the natives and settlers. Seed of this species of cotton was dis tributed to growers last month, and a committee of the Chamber is to judge of the cultivation. Twenty-two prizes, ranging in value from 2,000 francs to 250 francs, are to be awarded to the successful growers, according to the quality and uniformity of the plants and the quantity of cotton available for export. Ihe prizes are to be awarded at the annual fgtes on 14th July, 1888.

In spite of other holiday attractions, the Mohawk Minstrels continue to draw fair houses. Their programme was repeated last evening and the company reappear again to-night.

An urgent meeting of the New Zealand Rifles is called byLt.-Col. Mahon for to morrow evening, in the drill shed, at 8 o'clock.

The picnic party on board the cutter Elizabeth, which was reported missing yesterday* were found all safe by the Customs launch. The cutter had run aground on a reef off Motutapu on Tuesday, but was floated off' yesterday morning. The picnickers, who had during their enforced stay been confined to short commons, were taken on board the launch and the yacht Mayflower; which happened to come across them, and were conveyed safely to town.

H.M.S. Nelson was open to the public to day, when the Devonport Ferry Company had several of their steamers running to her, and a large number of people availed themselves of the opportunity of visiting the vessel.

The grand spectacular drama " Alone in London " was produced for the third time to a large audience last evening at the Opera House. The beautiful revolving scenery attracted even more attention than the portrayal of the various characters. The audience were not grudging in their applause, and on two occasions the leading members of the Company were called before the curtain, when, as usual, virtue was cheered and vice hooted. " Alone in London " will be again produced this even ing.

For some time past the residents of Melrose, North Shore, have been cuneider ably exercised in mind by the regular dis appearance of poultry and eggs in a very un accountable way. Various plans of detect ing the culprit were tried, but all to no purpose, and the victims of the nocturnal pilferings unanimously came to the con clusion that it was no mere 'prentice hand that was engaged in the business. All alarms and doubts were settled yester day through the capture by Mr Rowley of a fierce little animal in flagrante delicto. It is said to be a mongoose, or ichneumon, but how it reached the North Shore from its habitat in India is a mystery. This ani 'malis known in the North of Africa as "Pharaoh's rat," and in Egypt its fondness for eges leads it to prey upon those of _ the crocodile. In India it is a very determined enemy of snakes,and several years ago there was talk In this colony of importing it as a means of arresting the rabbit pest. It is exceedingly fond of pou'try and eggs, and its depredations among fowls therefore very considerably detract from its merits as a vermin-killer.

The concert which Mrs Davies and Mr W. A. McLean give in the Choral Hall this evening is of a valedictory character.as they are about to leave Auckland for Wellington and the South. In addition to the contri butions for which they themselves figure on the programme of this farewell concert, Mies Knight and Mr T. M. Jackson are "billed" for two songs each, and Mr (Jeorge Clutsam for three pianoforte solos. Miss Harding will be the accompan ist. Admiral and Mrs Fairfax and the officers of the squadron, as well as Laeu tenant-Colonel Shepherd and the officers ot the Auckland garrison, have given their patronage, and are expected to be present. All Volunteers are requested to appear in uniform.

The Auckland Yacht Club holds a special meeting to-morrow ai 8 p.m. to consider what steps should be taken by the.Club in connection with the recent robberies from yachts at anchor.

The sale of work held in connection with St. Alban's Church, Mount Roskill Road, will be continued on Saturday next, m Mr Buckland's shop, Queen-street, the use o* which has been kindly granted for the oc casion.. In the evening the residue of the articles, which are all of excellent quality, will be cleared off by auction.

Blenheim, this day.

• St. Leonard's farm, the property of Mr Thomas Redwood containing 231 acres i rood 31 perches, was disposed of by auction yesterday for £4,494 3s sd, a fraction over £19 per acre. The land,, which is with" three miles of Blenheim, is of exceedingly good qualify.

N.Z. SHIPPING CO.

IMPORTANT CHANGES.

(BY TELEGRAPH.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Christcuurch, this day. At an extraordinary general meeting of the Z Shi PpingCo. yesterday new regulations were adopted. The principal alterations are the transfer to London of the head office the registered office still remaining at Christchurch ; two Boards of Directors (London and Christchurch), the London eoarct to have the supreme finan cial control and the management of of e ;r lm " lstr *tive and commercial affairs °i the Company except in New Zea • i j Australi a, Tasmania, and the , a ? d * of tfa e Pacific ; the New Zea f+u * d t0 have the management 01 the commercial affairs in New Zealand, etc ; the New Zealand Board to be repre sented on the London Board by a director nominated by the Board in New Zealand, and the London Boaid to have similar nomination to the New Zealand Board.

POLICE COURT-THIS DAY.

(Before Messrs Gordon and Gilmore.) Drdxkenxess. — Jariiea Kelly, William Fiddler, and William Souter were each charged with the above offence, and fined 5 8 and costs, or 24 houra' hard labour.

Larceny of Boots.—Henrietta Aldredge pleaded guilty to the larceny of two pairs of boots. value £1 17s, the property of Mr George Higgins. - bergeant Pratt stated that Constable a innerty had made the arrest, and recovered one pair of boots from a pawnshop. The prisoner immediately gave the constable the 3s which she had received for the boots. Her husband had since found the other pair of boots and returned them to the police— Mr George Higgins said he did not wish to press the charge.—The Bench sentenced the prisoner to 7 days' hard laboiw. Larceny. — George Lewis was charged with the larceny of two pairs of boots from the manufactory of Georgo Forater.—Mr Cotter, on behalf of the defendant, pleaded guilty, and asked the Bench to deal leniently with the lad. He stated that Mr Forster did not wish to press the charge, and was willing to take the boy back into his employ, he being an apprentice. He deprecated the idea of sending the boy to gaol to herd with criminals, and sug gested that t.he conviction should be re corded and the prisoner be bound over to come up for sentence when required.—Mr Forster gave evidence, and confirmed Mr Cotter's statement. Having missed things before,he gave information to the police,and the lad was arrested by Detective Tuohy. —Sergeant Pratt pointed out that the lad could be dealt with under the First Offenders Probation Act.—The Bench ad monished the prisoner and recorded the conviction as suggested, binding down the lad to come up when required for sen tence.

Owing to the pressure of business at the Police Court to-day, a number of cases were remanded until later on in the week.

GAMING IN HOTELS.

the Police Court this morning a case was brought before the Court at the in stance of Sergeant Gilliesin which an hotel keeper was charged with having committed a breach of the Licensing Act by permitting gaining in his hotel. Messrs Gordon and Gilmour were the presiding justices. Michael Corcoran was charged with having committed a breach of the Licensing Act by permitting John Thomas King and John Delaney to gamble in liis licensed hou3e, the Flagstaff Hotel, at Devonport. Mr Cotter appeared for the accused and stated that he was prepared to admit the facts of the case. The real truth was that four men from the Ferry Company steamer went into the hotel and shook the dice for drinks. Mr Corcoran was away from home at the time. Having the dice-box in their hands, they continued playing for money. It was done openly in the bar, and not in a private room. He believed that this was the first case of the kind brought into thie Court. He asked that this Bench should simply dis cbarge Mr Corcoran with a warning, and not inflict a fine, which would also necessitate endorsing the license. The Bench said that the fact of the proprietor keeping dice was reprehensible, as it encouraged men to gamble and spend more than otherwise they would have done. Had the men taken the dice into the hotel, it would have been very different. But they were of opinion that when dice were kept in the house the licensee certainly lent himself to the offence. The Act made it quite clear that no games of chance should be permitted in' hotels. Sergeant Pratt stated that Mr Cotter's statement was quite correct. Sergeant Gillies heard the dice rattling for some time prior to entering the hotel. When he did so Miss Corcoran was in the bar, and upon seeing the police she cleared with the dice box, "and did nob bring it back when called upon to do so. Mr Cotter explained that Miss Corcoran only entered the bar as the police came in. The Bench were quite satisfied that there was no particular desire on the part of the proprietor to screen the action, but still the ofl'enco had been committed, and al though they did not desire to inflict an extreme penalty they would mark their dis approval of his action by inflicting a nne of £5 and cost*.

INJURING A SHOOTING RANGE.

A NAVAL VOLUNTEER COMPANY'S GRIEVANCE.

The Devonport Navals are very much in censed at the conduct of some person or persons who take a singular delight in repeatedly dismantling the range at Brick Bay, and matters have now come to such a pass that Lieut. Dacre has deemed it his duty to invoke the assistance of the police. It seems that after, the re-tormation of the corps the butts and targets were re-erected at Brick Bay, and by permission of the officer commanding the Waitemata Navals con ducted tSeif class-firing there. The sailors of ?he men-of-war in harbour were, also ac- SSmentoftleTulpritorculprit,

H.M.S. CALLIOPE.

( BY KUOBAPH.-OWX CORESPONDENT.)

Russell, this day. H M S. Calliope has been here since the 24"th inst., engaged in coaling and gun practice. She will probably leave for Auckland on Friday.

SPORTING.

NORTHERN JOCKEY CLUB.

SECOND DAY.

(by telegraph.—own correspondent. )

W HANOAREi, this day. The second day's racing of the Northern Jockey Club Summer Meeting was held at Kensington Park. The weather was all that could be desired. The great boil-over of the day was the running oil'of Hawthorn in the Steeplechase, which resulted in a big dividend being paid on the winning horse. The Cup Handicap fell to the favourite Bees wing, this mare having won all the three races for whioh -she started. The jockey, W. White, had extraordinary luck, win ning every race in which he rode—five out of six. About £550 were put through the totalisator in 10s tickets during two days. The following are the results ot the different races:—

Maiden Plate, of 20sovs., 1J miles.—S. Dickey's Venus, Bst 121b (White), 1; E. Mooney's Koeranga, Bst 121b (Quintal), 2; J. M. McLeod's Una, 7st 91b (McKenzie), 3; Humphreys' No Name, -Bst 91b also ran. Prince.Traveller, Kanga roo, and Lady Audley were scratched. Venus led all the way, and won hard held by four lengths, Una a length behind, third. Dividend, 14s. Northern Jockey Club Cup Handicap, of 50sovs., distance 2 miles.—A. Thomas's Beeswing, Bst 7lb (White), 1 ; J. Wyatt's Kitten, 6st 12lbs (Prilchard), 2 ; Pomare Ringi's Barb, Bst 31b (McKinnon), 3. J. Slatter's Woodpecker, 9st, J. Dent's Worm, Bst, also ran. Squire, Wat Tyler, Prince, and Totara were scratched. Beeswing won pulling off the double by a length; Barb, 6 lengths off, third. Time, 3min. 52isec. Dividend, 16s. Northern Steeplechase Handicap, of 40sovs., about 3 miles.— J. Slater's Traveller, 9st 121b (vVhite), 1 ; J. R. Mc- Innia's Amateur, 10st 81b (Mclnnis), 2 ; N. Stephens's Hawthorn, list 71b (Sissons), 3. F. North's Dandy, 9st 71b, also ran. Kan garoo and Trovatore were scratched. Haw thorn was a red-hot favourite, but at the double hurdle, after jumping the first, he ran round the second, and was never again able to overtake the leaders. Traveller was ridden well, and won easily by three lengths; Hawthorn, J mile behind, came third. Dandy ran off at the first hurdle, and was never in the race. Dividend, £3 9s. Ladies' Purse of 20sovs, 1J miles.—A. Thomas's Bees wine, lOst 121b (White), 1; Pomare Kingi's Barb, list (Winnie), 2; J. R. Mclnnis's Te Aroha (MeKenzie), 3. Worm, Traveller and Koeranga were scratched. Beeswing led all the way, and won by two lengths. Dividend, 13s. AncTtoN Stakes of 20sovs, 1 mile.— A. Thomas's Tip, list (Thomas), 1; J. R. Mclnnis's Rio, 6st (Mc lnnis), 2; J. Robinson's Sandfly, 6st 111b (J. White), 3. Woodpecker (7st 71b) and Otara (6st 111b) also ran. Prince and No Name were scratched. This race was considered a gilt to Woodpecker, who ran very badly, finishing fourth. Tip won by half-a-length, Sandfly being a head behind Rio. Dividend, 18s. Tip was bought in by the owner for £16.

Flying Farewell Handicap, of 15sovs, 1 mile— J. Slater's Wat Tyler, Bst 121b (White), 1 ; J. R. Mclnnis'.s Te Arolm, 7st 51b (McKenzic), 2. Squire, Beeswing, Barb, Woodpecker, Totara and Una were scratched. Won hard held by a length. Dividend, 165..

Matamata Races.

At tho Matamata races on' Boxing Day there was not a large attendance. The Maiden Plate was won by Decision, with Diana second. The Matamata Handicap fell to Mr Allwill's Britannia, Deceiver being second. Venture was the only other starter. Mr Glassford's Nora won the Handicap Hurdles, with Te Namo second. Fisher man won the Railway Plate, Diana second. The Ladies' Bracelet was secured by MrsF. Dibble's Beeswing; Mrs S. Johnson's De ceiver securing second honours, and Mrs J. R. MoCall's Emerald third place. Mr Glassford's Nora won the Steeplechase easily from Tidal Wave. Mr Hunter acted as judge, and Mr King as starter, both gentlemen proving themselves equal to the occasion.

South Auckland Racinar Club

Claudelands, this day,

There is splendid weather for this meet ing, and there are 800 people on the course The trains brought a lot from all parts. The Hamilton Band is in attendance.

For the Maiden Race Parnell, Volunteer, and Sir Walter started. Sir VValter led from start to finish, and won, hard held, Parnell six lengths behind, with Volunteer a bad third.

Handicap Hurdle Race.—Don, 1; Re emit, 2; Bob Sawyfjr, 3.

Messrs Hunter and Nolan will sell by auction to - morrow at 12 o'clock two thoroughbred fillies, the property of Mr H. P. Kavanagh, viz., a colt by Ingomar out of a full sister to Derringer, and a filly by Musket —Rosalie. The pair are located at Dignan's stables. The filly out.of Rosalie is a particularly fineyoungster, and is worthy the attention of buyers.

The final acceptanco for the Auckland Cup is due to night.

TWO SUDDEN DEATHS.

(by telegraph—own correspondent.)

Thames, this day.

Two cases of sudden death occured yester. day. Mr Alexander Phillips, cab-owner, Thames, and Mrs Costello, Tapu.

WAIKATO NOTES.

(from our own correspondent.)

Hamilton, Wednesday. At a rifle competition of the Hamilton Light Infantry Volunteers yesterday, Cor poral Tristram was the winner of Colonel Forbes'a prize of two guineas; Private Tris tram the second, presented by Mr Geo. Edgecombe ; and Lieutenant Coombes the third, presented by Mr J. B. Whyte. For the highest aggregate over the three ranges, Corporal Tristram secured the highest number of points, Private Tristram coming . next, with Private Alexander third. A Native Land Court sitting is to be held at Cambridge on the 18th January, for the rehearing of the decision by the Taupo Court in the matter of ownership over the Taupo-nui-a-tia Block. The Taupiri Extended Coal Company are the successful tenders for the supply of coal to the Railway Department At the R.M. Court, Hamilton, to-day, a youth named Doyle, charged with stealing a horse, the property of Mr Anderson, of Kibikihi, was committed for trial.

Mr Edward Shanly, # mineral water manufacturer, invites all interested to visit his factory in Chapel-street on Saturday next, when he will exhibit his new patent machinery, a small charge being made for admission to prevent over-crowding.

AUCKLAND RIFLE ASSOCIA TION.

Forty competitors took part in the annuaj shooting contest connected with the Auck land Rifle Association. On Monday the weather was not favourable, as there was a bad light and a strong wind. Yesterday the conditions were more encouraging The arrangements were in the hands of the Secretary, Mr W. A. Lumsden. Captain Skinner,of No. 2 Battalion,being the senior officer present was in command. The new Remington-Lee rilies are not likely to grow in favour, for during the seventh match an accident occurred to Captain Skinner's rifle while he was firing, and Sergeant Parslow had his ear wounded by a splinter. The defect seemed to be the same as that in the rifle which caused the accident to Volunteer Rose on Saturday last,and points to some faulty construction of the gun. The fact that seven out of the eight prizes won in this match were carried otf by the Martini-Henrys presented to the Volunteers by Mr Firth, speaks for itself, particularly when it is remembered that several of the competitors used them for the first time in the match. It would therefore ap pear as though the Remington - Lee rifle is not superior if equal to the Martini- Henry. Appended is a complete list of the. scoring:—

First Matcii.—Col Shepherd's Prize and eight money prizes. Ranges, 200 yds. standing, 300 yds. kneeling; 5 shots at each distance. Entrance, 3s 6d. 200 yds 300 yds Tl Sergeant Hodgkinson, "O" Battery 43444 34324-35 Captain White, Gordons .. 30334 34454—33 W.H. Hazard, civilian .. 32334 53432 32 Can tell. Hobson .. .. 40433 43234-30 Handley, Victoria ... .. 32343 24234—30 Captain Cooper, Victoria .. 04434 44240-29 Gunner Payne 22440 43243-28 Nutt, Newton, disqualified .. 20442 24442-28 Captain Little, Hobson .. 44033 42323-23 Sergeant Parslow, "A" Bat tery 32424 40405-28 Private Kretohmar, Victoria 44224 20343 28 Volunteer Hawk, Victoria .. 34453 20043—28 Second Match.—Beck's Cup and eight money prizes. Ranges, 200, 400, and 500 yards ; five shots at each distance. En trance, 4s. The Cup can only be won by a member of the Auckland Garrison. 200 yd. 400 yd. 500 yd. Tl. Sergt. Parslow, A Battery 35444 45555 02435-58 Sergt. Henderson, ditto 44543 52355 04532-54 Capt. Little, Hobson 44454 35442 20543-53 Cant. White, Gordon .. 45444 45524 54003—53 Vol. F. V. Kelly, Q.O. .. 245.43 54522 52 Vol. Trayes, Gordon .. 25422 342:>5 34532-51 Sergt. Stirling, City Guards 43553 05235 22524-50 Sergt Haswell, W.B. ... 45444 50550 34502-50 Kiusey 52144 23445 34420-50 Third Match.—Citizens' Trophy and eight money prizes. Range, 300 yds j ten shots. Entrance, 4s.

300 yds. Tl.

Volunteer Nutt, Newton Rifles (disqualified) 3444452422—34 Volunteer A. L. White, Gordon 2244433434-33 Volunteer Hawk, Victoria .. 3423434442-33 Volunteer F. V. Kelly, Queen's Own 4332424533—33 Volunteer J. F. White, Queen's Own .. .. 2244334424—32 Lieutenant Hay, Queen's Own .. 3444442232—32 P. Mead, civiliun 4325432432 32 Captain Sl< inner. No. 2 Battalion 4022345444-32 Handley. Victoria 4244332432-31 Volunteer J. G. Buchanan, Gor don 3404333443—31 Sergeant Paralow, A. Battery .. 5435023432-31 Sergeant Fuirs, Victoria .. .. 3334544303-30 Cantell, Hobson 3240443331-30 Kinsey , . .. 0343245243-3U

Fourth Match.—Aggregate Match for District Medal, "Herald" and Evening Star cups, and five money prizes. Range, 500 yards ; ten shots. Open to the 20 highest aggregate scorers in matches 1,2, and 3. The score made in this match will be added to the grand aggregate, and the highest scorer takes the medal and "Herald " cup; second highest scorer takes the Etejtoto Star cup. Botii cups to bo won twice in succession, or three times at intervals, before be coming the property of the winner. Entrance, Is.

Fifth Match. — Consolation Match. Ranges, 400 and 500 yards; five shots at each distance. Five money prizes. Open to members who have riot won a prize in previous matches. Entrance, 3s 6d. 400 yd. 500 yd. Tl Lieutenant Leigh 25444 43552-38 Sergeant Ro3e 55044 24552—34 Private McCarthy, Onehunga Rifles 42435 44430^-33 Jenkins 53445 50320-31 E. Buchanan .. .. .. 55204 40244-30 Sergeant Boyd 40253 53023—30 Lieutenant J. G. Buchanan .. 23554 25220-30 Sixth Match. —Team Match. Open to teams of five men from any Volunteer corps; a team of non-Volunteers win be allowed to compete.. Range 3, 200 and 500 yards ; seven shot 3at each distance. Entrance, 6a 6d per man. Ncn-members of Association entering to complete teams, 2s 6d extra.

200 yd. 500 yd. Tl,

Seventh Matcii.—Open to Remington- Lee, Martini-Henry, and Snider Rifles- Kanges, 500 and 600 yds. ; seven shots at ' each distance. " Prizes according to the number of entries. Competitors to find .their own ammunition. Entrance, 3s.

500 yd. 600 yd. Tl.

Lumsden, A Battery, Mar- rrT __ tini Henry .. .. .. 2255355 5422553-53 Watson, Victoria, Martini- Henry ~ „ „ .. 3534234 525<J5Q5-5Q

O'Hanlon, Martini-Henry.. 4435423 0534453—49 Payne, A Battery, Martinf- Hetuy 3222332 2552544—44 F. V. Kelly, Queen's Own, Martini-Henry .. .. 5205344 3220554-44 Mead, Martini-Henry .. 5550332 0455430-44 Weir, Martini-Henry .. 0333422 3555323—43 Hazard, civilian, Martini- Henry 2235554 2050505—43 McCarthy, Hob., Martini- Henry 2233023 4252345 40 Parslow, A Battery, Snider 0543334 0403533—39 Fairs, Victoria, Martini- Henry 4542544 5300200—38 Hay, Goruon, Snider .. 4353444 03221)23—38 Eighth Match. — Auckland Volunteers' Match. Open only to members of the Auckland Garrison. Ranges, 200 and 500 yds. ; seven shots at each distance. Entrance, members of Association, 4s 6d, non-members, 6s.

200 yd. 500 yd. Tl. Lieutenant Leigh, Gordons 4455544 2554044—55 Captain Skinner .. .. 4344253 4244454—52 Captain Little, Hobson .. 4534553 0525422—49 Gunner Woolley, A Battery 4244542 .5025333-48 Sergeant Henderson, A Battery 4456244 4254302—48 Volunteer F. V. Kelly, Q.O. 5453535 2304225-48 Gunner Payne, A Battery 3434444 3045225—47 Lieutenant Buchanan, Gor don 3544434 0322255-46 Sergeant Parslow, A Bat tery 3445444 4202235-46 W. Osborne 4344324 4405234-45 C. Watson, Victoria .. 4444543 2325005-45 Vol. J. G. Buchanan, Gordon 4343433 5033242-43 Sergeant J. F. White, Gordon .. .. .. 4434443 5032043—43 Lieutenant Hay, Gordon .. 4445454 4405002-43 Ninth Match.—Extra Match. Open to members of the Association who have never won an Association prize since January, 1885. Ranges, 400 and 500 yards ; five shots at each distance. En trance, 3s 6d.

400vds 500yas Tl Mead, civilian 52254 30545..35 Rout, Victorias 52542 35330. .32 .T. G. Buchanan, Gordons .. 40332 23554..31 C. Watson, Victorias .. .. 03235 50524..29 lioyd, City Guards 22524 52205-26 Osborne, Gordons 44442 00044-26 steadman. Whau Rifles .. 40022 05245 24 Jenkins. Whau Rifles ~ .. 52023 03333—24 Kretschmar, Victorias .. .. 50322 20243 -Zα,

FIRE IN FRANKLIN ROAD.

A WOMAN CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED ARSON.

Shortly before a quarter to 8 o'clock last evening, a man named John Erickson, who resides in Franklin Road, noticed smoke ■ssuing from tho roof of the adjacent house of Mrs Johanna O'Connoll. As the dwelling appeared to be on fire, he went over to examine it. He tried 60 look through both the front and back windows, | but was unable to do so owing to the dark blinds being down. Subsequent examination showed that the blinds had been doubled. Fronting the street were the ordinary striped blinds, while behind these dark'green blinds had been fixed. The blinds were quite new, and had been tacked up. Of course these effec tually prevented Erickson from seeing in side the room. With commendable per sistency he climbed to an upper window, where he succeeded in looking inside the room. One glance showed that the house was on fire, as the room was full of thick smoke. Mr Erickeon then saw Mrs O'Connell standing outside her front door. He ran down to her and told her that the place was on fire. She was apparently somewhat under the influence of liquor. Ho asked for the key in order that he might enter the house and try to extinguish the lire. She refused to give up the key, and said that all her furniture was inside. Erick son then burst in the back door and with the assistance of some neighbours procured water, and succeeded in putting out the fire,which had just commenced to spread to the walls. An examination showed that the fire had commenced on the floor. Here were rags and shingles saturated with kerosene lying on either side of a door which opened" into a recess. Two separate fires had evidently been started; one had burnt a hole about a foot in diameter through the floor. The walls of the room were also charred on both sides of the doorway. In a cupboard some distance apart from this door ex amination disclosed some paper soaked with kerosene. This had alao been alight, and had charred the shelving. In the corner in the front room was also a quantity of rags and paper. The wall paper had been sprinkled pretty liberally with kerosene to the height of three 01 four feet. This had not been set fire to. As previously mentioned, the lower windows had been darkened with two blinds so that the whereabouts of the in cipient fire could not easily be seen from the outside. Both the windows and doors were securely fastened. About five minutes to 8 o'clock the alarm was telephoned to the Central Fire Brigade Station,and the big bell rang out the alarm. Iα a few minutes the Brigade assembled and a hose reel was despatched to Franklin Road, accompanied by Superintendent Hughes. Soon after the alarm was given Detective Herbert, Sergeant Lyon?, and Constables McConnell and Bernard arrived upon the scene, and made an exhaustive examination of the premises. When they heard Mr Erickson's statement Herbert and Bernard went in search of Mrs O'Connell, whom they found in Cook-street. They brought her back to the fire and showed her the room. Mrs O'Connell said that some per son must have stolen her furniture bodily and done the other business &a well. She denied having poured the kerosene on the places already described. Detective Herbert arrested the woman and convoyed her to the station. She strongly protested that she was innocent, and refused to give any informa tion as to the insurance. It should be mentioned that when Erickson entered the house the whole of the furniture consisted of an old table and a kettle. The house was insured for £150 in the North British Mer cantile Company in the name of Eliza Mc- Kenzie, and transferred to William Monnahai), of Ellerslie, on October 12th. It is known that the prisoner wanted to sell the house,, which was mortgaged. Cap tain Harrison and isome others had tried to purchase the property, but could not agree as to tho price. She had threatened that if they would not pay her price for the pro perty, she would put a tenant in that would put them out. The prisoner was brought before the Court at 10.30 o'clock this morning, when Messrs Gordon and Gihnore were on the Bench. She was duly charged with having set lire to her premises in Franklin Road. Sergeant Pratt obtained a remand for one week, as he was not prepared to proceed with the case. The prisoner applied to be admitted to bail.

Sergeant Pratt objected. He said that the prisoner had other property in Pon sonby, which might go if she was let out. The woman had been previously burned out, and at that time an inquiry was held, but nothing came of it.

The Bench declined to allow bail.

Johanna O'Connell is a woman nearly 60 years of age. She is the widow of an old soldier, and has for years earned a living by making Limerick lace.

A picnic was held. last Monday (Boxing Day) at Titirangi by the elder scholars of the Kingsland Wesleyan Sunday-school, a most enjoyable day being spent. Splendid views were obtained while riding to the place.

THE NORTH SHORE FERRY SERVICE.

COMPLAINTS OF ERRATIC BURNING.

NEW TIME-TABLE.

At the meeting of the Harbour Board this afternoon, a letter was received from Mr John Milne, complaining of " the manner in which the Devonport Ferry Company are carrying on the service at the present time," and charging them with an " utter disregard to their time-table." He says " they regularly keep their boats from 5 to 10 minutes beyond the time stated in their time-table that they may edge on as nearly as possible to the time when the new Company's boats are due to start." The writer then proceeds to cite instances, and he concludes by suggesting that " some person appointed by the Har bour Board should attend as a sort of in spector and order the boats away at the time mentioned in the time-table. The practice of touting all the way up the wharf and keeping the boats waiting until the touter arrives to bring in any passen gers he may have picked up is most repre hensible."

A memo, dated the 20th December was received from the Harbour-master, stating that he had inquired into Mr Milne's allegations. The traffic manager of the D.S. F. Company had admitted that the boat was behind time for the 3.30 trip on the 16th inst., and that the stage was put ashore again to allow a lady passenger on board. As regarded the 9.30 trip to Devonport wharf the Britannia got aground on the Sandppit and was towed off as soon as possible, but too late to take up the 9.30 trip. With reference to the time-table efforts were now being made to amend matters while the suggestion re an inspector would entail the appointment of one such officer for each side of the harbour and would be very acceptable to the Ferry Company by relieving them of a responsibility they could not otherwise get rid of (vide clause 70 of new by-laws). The touting was a nuisance but it was not clear what steps could be taken to put a stop tc it.

In aiaother memo., dated the 29th inst. (to-day) the Chief Harbour Master reported that "The two Ferry Companies'boats run ning between Auckland and Devonport are not keeping their respective time-tables and are running to all parts of the harbour. Yesterday 1 had occasion to speak to Mr Alison, manager of the D.S Ferry Company, respecting these irregularities, and was told by him that he would run his boats when and where he liked, whatever I myself or the Harbour Board might say or do in the matter. The touting on the wharf yesterday on behalf of these Companies was a nuisance, and obstructive to public traffic on the wharf." The Chief Harbour Masteralso forwarded amended time table for Auckland and North Shore Ferry Co.'s boats, and reported that it had been arranged so as to work in unison with the Devonport Ferry Com pany's time-table, which remains unaltered, it being understood that four boats only (two from each com paisy) shall run from the end of Vic toria Wharf, no one of these boats to re main at the end of the wharf for more than 13 minutes before the time of starting, and 3 minutes only when calling there on their way to and from Devonport Wharf ; other inter mediate trips to be run from the western side of Victoria Wharf.

ALLEGED LAMBING DOWN.

THE HEATHEN CHINEE AND THE FAIR CAUCASIAN.

At the Police Court this morning, a young married woman named Annie McCaghey was charged with stealing £4 5s from the person of a Chinese named Peter Kong Hoy.

Messrs Gordon and Gilmour were on the Bench.

Mr C. Madden appeared for the accused and pleaded not guilty. Peter Kong Hoy deposed that last Friday evening he saw the prisoner be tween 8.30 and 9 o'clock in the Market Hotel. Witness shouted drinks tor the prisoner and two other women. At that time he had about £4 5s in his pockets. There were 4 one pound notes and 5s or 6s in silver. It was in his trousers' pockets. Witness and prisoner then went for a walk. In about an hour they again returned to the hotel for more drink. The prisoner asked him for some money. They went into Grey-street, and she again asked him to lend her some money. Witness showed the purse, which had only some silver in it. Prisoner said, " You have more than that," and put her hand in his pocket. When ahe took it away he saw the money in her hand. He said, "Annie, give me my monej." She ran away, and witness chased her. He could not catch her. He kept calling out, "Annie, I want mymoney." There were a few young fell iws about, and one said, " Quite right, Peter, you get your money." She again ran away, and witness followed her to the upper part of Queen-street.- He missed her, and then shouted for the police. A constable came, and they seai'ched until they found the prisoner on the stone steps leading from Grey to Upper Queen-streets. He knew a girl named Minnie Russell. He did not see her until after his money was gone. Witness never saw his money again. When the constable caught her she cried. The prisoner had no claim upon witness for the money.

By Mr Madden : He had known Annie for three years. Did not know that she was a married woman. Witness and Minnie Russell had once lodged with Mrs Thompson, He was not married to her. He did not very owe Mrs Thompson money. He was not sober at the time, but was able to take care of himself. The prisoner, when caught, refused to be searched. Minnie Russell was amongst the orowd when witness ac cused the prisoner of stealing the money. May Bradshaw deposed that she was single, and resided in Rokeby-street. About half-past ten o'clock on the night in question she was standing at the foot of Alexandra-street, when the prisoner came running up the steps. The last witness came running up to wards her shouting out " Police! Police! Annie has robbed me." Witness was speaking to "Jenny" wben the prisoner shouted out that "she was a lying cow." Witness had been telling Jenny that some "lady" had robbed a man.

The Bench objected to the term " lady."

Sergeant Pratt thought that the word " woman " was the nobler of the two.

Witnes? further stated that upon being called such a name, she told the prisoner that the police were over the way. Prisoner then gave witness 12s 4sd, which she took, thinking it was prisoner's own money. Subsequently the prisoner came to witness and asked for the money which witness refused to give up because she had sent Jenny down to put it in the police's hands. Witness gave the money to Constable Lamb.

James Lewis deposed that he was a groom residing in Kokeby-street. On the nigrht of the 23rd he was speaking to the last witness May Bradshaw outside the Queen's Head Hotel. He saw the accused come out of the right of way next to the Hotel. Witness saw her speak to the last witness. Did not see the accused give May Bradshaw anything. Was looking away from her part of tho time. He heard the prisoner deny having robbed the China

man, and also offer to be searched. About 9 o'clock the following night witness called at the Police Station to state that) this woman had given May Bradehaw the money. , , . i By Mr Madden : Witness had never said that he was prepared to swear that he saw the prosecutor drunk before 10 o clock on the night in question. The case is proceeding as we go to press.

OUR GOLDFIELDS

(BY TELEGRAPH. —OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

GOLD AT WELLINGTON & NELSON.

(telegraph press association.)

Wellington, this day.

The prospecting party who went out to search for the reef in the Waiohine range, Wairarapa, from which gold bearing speci mens had been taken some time back, have returned without being able to discover the exact spot. They leave again for a further search to-day. Some stone picked up by the party during the search, although showing no gold, seem 3to indicate the presence of gold-bearing quartz. Sir Jas. Hector is at present analysing stone from Owen Creek, Nelson. He estimates that about an ounce to the ton has been lost in crushing owing to the presence of bismuth and he is devising means for the prevention of this loss.

FIRE AT NGARUAWAHIA.

Ox Christmas evening the large bulk store of Messrs Friar, Davis and Co., at Ngarua wahia, had a narrow escape from destruc tion by fire. About 9.30 o'clock Messrs Simpson (an employee of the firm) and Nicholls (the post - master) were passing down the street, when they noticed a glare in the building. They ran to acquaint Messrs Fitzpatrick and Davis, who were in the neighbourhood. The former gentleman arrived first, burst open the door, and with the aid of Messrs Simpson, Nicholls, and a man working on one of the river steamers, soon had a good stream of water from a large tank on the premises on the fire. In a quarter of an hour all danger was over. Subsequent investiga tion revealed the fact that there was a rat's nest under the steps of the staircase, and the fire could be distinctly traced from this point through the staircase lining, and through the wall into the main shop. From this it will be seen that after all the in cendiary rat is not entirely a myth. Owing to the lire being discovered in its incipient stage, and the prompt action taken, the damage will not exceed £10 or £12.

PIRACY AND ROBBERY.

Three or four weeks back the yacht Mara tea was "cleaned out" by some of th e

many " water-rats " and " loafers " that in fest the harbour. A large amount of pro visions and stores were taken, besides everything moveable that the thieves could lay hands on. The robbery was reported to the water - police, but in spite of every endeavour no clue could be found to the perpetrators. This morning a still more serious case was reported at the Police Station. The well known yacht Rita, belonging to Mr Thos. Henderson, was looted during the night, and the thieves - again left nothing worth having on board. It was also reported that the yacht Maritana, owned by Mr Bindon, had been gone through. <Dn board the latter yacht was a quantity of valuable silver plate, heirlooms of Mr Bindon's family, which had been allowed to remain on board the yacht since Monday when they were used by a picnic party out in her. The half decked yacht Malua was missing from her moorings, and the con clusion arrived at by the police was that thethieves after "cleaningoufthe Rita and Maritana had conveyed their spoil on board the Malua and made off. As soon as the in formation was given the Customs launch was obtained and a party went off in search of thethieves. Theßita,manned by avolunteer searching , party,is to go down this afternoon to assist in the search and every hope is felt of recovering the yacht at least, and also of bringing some of the scoundrels who committed the outrage to justice. If this is done, it is trusted that no lenient sen tence will be passed upon them. These robberies of yachts are getting altogether too numerous, and ib is high time that the law should make itso f felt, while the yacht owners, as a large body, look for protection to the Harbour Board and to the police. Later advices state that a clean sweep has been made of the Maritana. All the silver has disappeared, and even the cook ing utensils and cabin cushions and rugs are gone. The Maritana was got at through the skylight, which was broken open.

A search party consisting of Messrs T. Ryan, J. B. Graham, Phillipson, Sedgmoore (caretaker of Rita), and Mitchell (caretaker of Wenona), left at half-past one in the yacht Rita to assist in looking for the missing yacht Malua, and the party that took her.

A reward of £50 is offered for any infor mation which will lead to the arrest and conviction of the persons who broke into the yachts Rita and Maritana, also for the recovery of the Malua.

THE GOVERNMENT AND RETRENCHMENT.

(by telegraph.—press association.)

Wellington, this day. It is expected that a full Cabinet meeting will be held in the early part of January when it is understood that the principal matter to be dealt with will be the retrench ment scheme.

COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &a, To-night,

Abbott's Opera House—Bland Holt Company in " Alone in London," 8 Agricultural Hall—Mohawk Minstrels 8 Choral Hall—Vocal and Instrumental Concert, 8 Ist. James s Hall—Christmas Caniata. " Niehtof Glory." 8 • b Drill-shod ■ Newton Rifles. 7 Y.M.O.A. Rooms—Evangelistic Service, 7 30 Auckland Tabernacle—Service, 7.30

Auction Sales To-morrow.

A dS&3j Poultry and Pro- H etc! C1 li an<i Nolan, Durham Yards-Horses, W s£. U ll WdCn ~ Weckljr Poultry and Produce S 'etc°°n rane aM Son - Hou sehold Furniture, Pa turl a i 0d 30 Ral8tOn ~~ PoUltry, Produ ce, Fnm* Z' T^vfe' SO T?~F. urn U ur 2- Produce, etc., 10 ». Leydon-Poultry, Produce, etc., il J. Leydon.-Poultry, Produce, Furniture, ***..

£' w'llv I ~ P< S ,ltr3 i • Produce, etfl., 12 l>. *. Evans-Furniture, etc., 11. b.J. Jones—Groceries, Furniture, Crockery 1* S&e\?n Merchandlse " Fruit ' Tric^" G &c!r? ~' Lif einsurftnce Polic i«s. 550.,12} Booka,

Bota ot Justices at Police Court

Dec. 30—Messrs R. "VV. Hammond and T.

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAfi, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29. 188?,

5



1st. 2nd 3rd aggre- match match match jjato. Tl.

Sergt. Parslow, A Buttery .. ..28 58 31 32-149 Captain White, Gordon .. ..33 53 30 32-148 Captain Skinner.. 27 14 32 31—134 Vol. V. V. Kelly, Q,0 25 52 33 24-134 Capt. Little, Hob- son 28 53 28 24-133 Corporal Handloy, Victoria.. ..30 44 31 26-131 Lieutenant Hay, Gordon .. ..26 42 32 28-128 Volunteer Hawk, Viotoria . ..28 45 33 21-127 Sergeaut Hodg- kinaon, O Bafry 35 41 22 27—125 Sergeant Hender- son, A Battery 22 54 29 20-125 Kinsey .. ..18 60 30 "5-123 Has well, Whan- gareiK 22 50 28 23-123 W, Osborne. Civilian .. ..23 44 28 27-122 P. Mead, Civilian 25 41 32 23-121 Sergeant Fairs, Victoria .. .. 20 49 30 21-120 W. ri. Hazard, Civilian .. ..32 45 22 21-120 Gunner Payne, A Battery .. ..28 44 27 20-119 Sergeant Cox, Gordon .. ..20 48 29 21-118 Pri. A. L. White, Gordon .. ..33 53 30 Iβ—111 Cantell .. ..30 41 30 9-110



Gordon Rifles—2nd. Volunteer Leigh .. Volunteer White .. Ueutenant Buchanan 3ergeant White Lieutenant Leigh ..

.. 5445534 4425225- 54 .. 4355444 4335404 - 52 .. 3344535 4502342— 47 ... 3444545 2245032 - 47 .. 4544344 5002222- 41

241

Gordon Rifles-1st. Captain White Sergeant Cox , .. Volunteer Osborne.. Lieutenant Hay ZJorpoial Kinsey ..

.. 5445445 5544244-59 .. 2434555 5552025..-, 52 .. 4444434 2324503- 46 .. 2444545 0520324- 44 .. 4343444 0220404- 38

239

Victoria Rifles. 3ergeaht Fairs Volunteer Kout Volunteer Kretchmar Captain Cooper Volunteer Hawk

.. 4434544 2453433-52 .. 3445532 4325222-46 . .. 5442344 2345302-45 .. '2544434 3340503--44 .. 4354544 0333033-44

231

A Batter j\ , Sergeant Parslow .. Sunner Pavne sergeant Henderson Junner Woolley Junuer Lumsden

.. 5445443 0454442—52 .. 4244504 2345350-45 .. 3352445 2452033-45 .. 4243244 2300234-37 .. 42342J5 3040222—37 216

Whangarei Rifles. Sergeant Stead man .. Volunteer Sinclair .. Sergeant Haswell .. Volunteer Woods Volunteer Jenkins ..

.. 4444344 0122503-43 .. 3444444 0330530—41 .. 4444333 4202232-40 .. 5442444 2030302-37 .. 3444444 0002430-36



Onehunga tweed trouse™ at 21e j Smith and Caughey s.~(Ai»t;



billiards, 6d the game, at Wyndham street Saloon, the coolest room in Auckland -lAdvt.l



The executors of T. Shortare selling men's and boys' straw hats , at ridiculously low prices. Hundreds to choose from. (Advt.)



Suits to measure at 59s 6d from twenty five of the choicest patterns produced at the Onehunga Woollen Mills. Perfect fit guaranteed. —Smith and Caughey. — (Advt.)