COKING EVENTS.

Meetings, etc., To-night,

AbboU'd Op»ra Houtio—Williamson. Earner, atid MuFgrovo'sCompanT in "Jim, tho Penman, '8. Religious Meeting in the T«nt on Surrey Hills Estate, Ponsonby Road, 7.30. Foresters' Hall, Nowton-Moating in connec tion with Auckland Industrial Association, 8 .T.M.C.A. Rooms—N.Z Temperance Alliance,

•St, Goorgo's Hall, Newton-Entertainment, 8. Sexton & Mills's Shop. Nowton—Newton Foot-

ban Club, 8. Fansonby Clnb iiofel — Ponsonby Naval Artillery, ___.

Rota or Justices at the F-Uco Court. March ,'W-O.D. WhitcomOo and H.F. Ander son.

Auction Sales To-morrow. 18. Tonks & Co.—Properties. &o„ 12. S. Cochran. & Son—Household Fcrnlturo,

Paintings, fee, 11. Arthur St Buddie—Produce, Poultry, Fruit, &o„ 11. Mount Eden: Household furniture ana E«_ots, Poultry, &0., IS>. G. Lewis—English Furniture, 11. D. F. Evans. Olaremont-atrcet — Household Furniture and Effects, 11. L. W. Eaton—Apples, Pears, Quinces, Bananas,

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

Mails will clo&b as under i—

SHIS DAT,

Per Maaaponri a's follows :—

For Ind-tr., China. Japan, Mediterranean ports, anrl Continent of Europe, at S p.m. For l.uesoil, Kawakawa, Aastraiian "Colenfrts, and United Kingdom, &c via ■Coletuboand Brindlsi for lettore.eto.,specially <so '.repaid and addressed, at 4 p.m. For money orders, registered lotterß, and news papers, at 3p m. Late letters for Sydney and Melbourneonlyat. 2jp.m. The United Kingdom mall will be due at London on May IT. for Whangarel Headp, Parua, Waipu. Whan garel, Kama, and Mangapai, por Wellington, at 5 p.m. Efor Gislsorrm and Rapier, per Southern CrOBS, at a p,m. For Thames, per Kottiku, at 5.30 p.m.

Wednesday, 30th inst, Per Westpoit, per Maitai, at 11 a.m. For Coroinandel, por Coromandel. at 11.39 a.m. For Rawene and Hokianga District, via Ono liunga, per Oretl, at 1 p.m. For Katikatl, Aongatete, Tanranga, and Opotlki, via Thames, per Rotomahana, at 5.30 p.m. "or Thames, per Rotomahana, at 4 p m. For Mangawai. Hakaru, and Kalwaka, por Ruby, at 5 p.m. For Tharuoj, por Enterprise?, at 5 30 p.m.

Thursday. 31st inst,

f."or Port FitEroy, Tryphona, and Okupu, por lona. at 7 a.m. For ffisb.rne, Napier, and Southern Ports, per Hararoa, at 11 a at.

Saturday. April 2,

For Russell, Kawakawa, and Fiji, pot Arawata, a., a p.m.

(Signed) 3. R BiSS, Chief Postmaster.

<3nlof Pc.t-offiee, Auckland,

HIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

aussKT.—Tftlß ovonlnsr. 5 51. -onbis*,—To-morrow morning, GIG.

HIGH WATER.

Auckland — Thie evonlcg, . 17 j to-morrow luurning. 10. L

Maniikact Heads—to-raorrow morning, 0,11 to-morrow af carnoon. 1.27. ic.vqv.ri Heads-To-morrow morning, l._l to marrow aft.moon. 2 27.

ARRIVALS.

LAST EVENING,

Wellington, s.s. St9.henson; from Whangarel Magellan Cloud, brlgantine, Matthews, fr.m Fiji Defiance, brigaatino, Byemtson, from New castle Mararoa, s.s., Edfo. frtm Sydney

TO-DAY. Howard, _c_, ___Donald. from Whangaroa

DEPARTURES.

LAST EVBNINe. Mariposa.RMS. Hayward, for San Francisco ■Olinsman. s.s. Fs.-quhar.inr Kussnll Chalmsford, 8 s.. Honklns. for Opotlkl lona, 8.8., Amcdoo, for Tauranga TO DAT. Ahlel Abbott, rxhooner, fe>r Now York William Phillips, schooner, for New York

STEAMERS TO ARRIVE.

Coromandel. from Coromandel, to day, 5 p.m, Douglas from Taurangi, to-night. Janet Nlooll, from South Sea Islands, to-morrow Rotomahana, from Thames, Wednesday, 1.30

p.m. lona, from Mercary Bay and Tanranea, Thurs day Clansman, from Russell, Friday, early Zoalandla, from San Francisso. duo April 2 Artvwa, from Plymouth, April 10 Maltai. from Westport, this Pcnguis fat Onehuaga), from South, Saturday

IMPORTS.

Per Mararoa 100 sicks bonedu_, 15 . chests t a, 1 package cancelled notes, 350 fellows, 30 pair sh f ta, SI ingots tio, 5 case i bitterd, 11 cases wine, _ empty egg casks, and sundries.

Per Defiance—3l7 tODs coal.

Per Magellan Cloud—sso bunches bananas.

EXPORTS.

Per Mariposa, from Honolulu—2o caseß onions, 173 sacks potatoes. For San Francisco— 47 oases gum, 11 sacks acoJe, 10 cases polts and sundries.

Inwards Coastwise.—Rata, from Kennedy Bay, with timber.

Ootwabds Coastwise —Walpu. for Mer cury Bay; Rata, for Kennedy Bay ; Reward, for Whangaroa.

The schooner Three Cheers cleared at the Customs to-day for Mercury Bay. where she will load 100,110 feat timber for Tlmsru.

The brigantine Ika Vuka is discharging her osr._ro of cotton into the barque tfaaterhlU for conveyance to London.

The e.s. Waitakl left Lyttelton for Northern ports on Monday, 28th iuet,,a full ship. She ought to arrive here on Monday.

The barque Notero arrived at Sydney from Lyttelton on the 23rd inst. She goes from Sydney to Newcastle, and will probably load coal tho: c for Auckland.

The brigantinea reported inside Tiritiri yes terday afternoon proved to be the Magellan Clou i, from Fiji,wiiieh was left on the 19th inst., and the Deflation, from Newcastle, with coals, 16 days out.

Tho Union Steimshlp Company, having given Captain oilman's patent automatic danger and ladi atisg signal a full trial, have resolved to adopt it on ons of their steamers trading between Melbourne and Sydney to further test, its value.

The three-masted schooners William Phillips and Abioi Abbott left port this morning, one on oaoh side of the steam tug Awhlna. Both schooners are leaded with gum for New York, and os they will have an even start on their voyage the trip should prove a good trial of speed betwoen tno two vesae s.

The s.a. Wellington arrived from Whangarel last evening, with the following paseengers :— Saloon: Messrs Cant, Stuart, Hurle, Billing, Cornahan, Kirr, Slsaons. Dieldam, Kenaerdino, Child, Barnow, Mtuts, Wilson, Rawnsley, Huthertord, Mr and Mrs Henriokßon, Master Thornton, Meßdames Redwell, Hud_on and nurse, Cm?ngham, Prescott, Alderion, Cottle, Bust and 7 children, Thornton, Mioses Weston, McDonald, Mcßae, Nicol, Hill, aid ton in the at cra.e.

The R.M. 8. Mariposa left for San Franolßco, -^'a Honolulu, punctually at 6 o'clock last even ing, with a very large number of passengers; tho list of nanieß booked at this port being as follows:—Mr and Mrs A. P. Costobadie and three children. Mr and Mrs J. A. Mollneauxand two children, Mr and Mrs W. H. Welch, Mr and Mrs Bassstt, Mr and Mrs J. MoLean, Mr and Mrs VV. S. Allen, Miss Allen, Messrs Allen (», Miss Cox. Mesßra H. Wilson, K. T. Firth, R. McE>cknie. VS\ C W. McDowell, A. H. Ander son W. A. Day, Stuart, C. Parker, Rodwell, H. Guthrie Smith. W. J. Binefleld, James Kalston, H. McKonzle, Lyons, H. Thurley, Peter Wother -BpooD, and through passengers for Sydney.

THE MARAROA.

The ss. Mararos. left Sydney at 115 p.m. on the 21th intt, Thrca Kings wero abeam at 110 a ni. on tho 27th. passed Tiri at 10.30 p.m., and reaohed AnosHnd at 11.15 p.m. Experienced Xiao weather till passing Three Kiog-. thence strong head win is uniil arrival. Pusaengers: —For Auc'elaad: Sduon-Mr and Mrs Onls holtn. Mr Buke'-, Mr and Mrs Shaw, Ur. Lsn?, Mrß Fotway and infant end two servants. Mr AlleD Mr M. Goldstein, Mrs Kokford, Mr P. G. Kckfeird Mr J. OarEoa, Mr M. Hardtmuth, Cap tain Kerry. Mr P. Steven. Miss Pontney, Mrs Grant and child. Mr H. A. Keesing, Mr Donald, Mis Tarto and child, Mr F. Fotway. Steerage—O. W. Smith, A. J. Goodocre, Mlsb ■Melville, Mr and Mrs Chalmars and family (6), Mr and Mrs T. Caielay and family (7), William Stephens. William Kirby. Robert Oallender, Mies F. Pickard. Mr Kobmaon, D. Johns and ,„_ jiiißS Rose Lucas, Mrs F. A. nlmmonrls, Mis':) E. Braithwaite, K. Davids. C. Gilmer. For GisDorne: falcon-Mr E. A Keynulds. For Napier: Sailoi-Mr J. VV. Deich. Steerage: T Led wot d. For Wellington: Saloon-Rev. C. E Bmler, Mr and Mis Keb-ell. Stscrjge-T. Tuckey, For Lyttelton: baloon-Mr W.,8. Sadler, Stserage-N. Mitchen. - orlluuedin: Saloon-Mr J. H. Kil-Onr. For Melbourne: S_loon-Mr J. MoCivde. Mr J. A. Redhead. Wo are indebted to Mr D. Dal_ieisb, purser, for customary favours.

THE NEW STEAM SERVICE.

The now direst Bteam serv.ce between this c_cny and Great Britain arranged By Mr Dob- Bon. ard undertaken by Meis-sTyseracd Co., io cor-junction with those wlo have for some time past been running the b.s Bldsislie from Oamatu, may nt w be regard, d as an accoaa nli_ed fact, .he "Po.t" stafcs that six steame s axe tl bn er._a.cd in th_ trad*, and tney will include the El lets ie and the lorfir s.lre, sailin_ under ihe tains lHg. Tnollr.t steamer is to leave Napier ia November, and in ilocembt'i- ono is loltava liauler and another Otago. The line Is iotc sded chiefly to develop ths frozen moat trid>, and nu> tX will be carried at a reduc2d frete-i. After December one eteamcr a month will 1-ave the colony. The , ftervlce Is intended toi_s _9-days one.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVAL. B'all'i, s.s,Norbury, from Waitara

DEPARTURES.

Ht-.tr,', 8.0., Noruury, for Waitara

Gair'ioeb, t_s., McArtAur, for V. unganui and Wellington iitey.er, li a., Hatu.y, for the tijutli. The Northern Co.'s s_. Staffs, arrived from Waltaia this morning with 78 casks tallow, m oases meat, _i eaoksbones., and 1 box butter. .She left again at 3 o'clock with a full cargo.

The Northern Co.'s B.a. Galrldoh left fbr Wel lington, via Wang.nul and,, Neytr Plyhiouth, at 3 o'claok to Say wlth'-aigo and passengers. rrs. rliwea- returned "fiouth at 10.30 a. m to-day. with tha following' passengers: -Mo srs ,W. E. Jumps, C. J. Long. Askew. C. J. Stockley. lKaa_,'_New_ll, I-.ALevy.Jean'Zurther. Col • ill Kngstor. J. Saunders. .Hewitt, G. Merrick, Wm. Gibson. Hoffman, McShane. Jackson, W. .Galrlth. S. Smith. Connal, Mesdames Askew, _aaos, Hewitt and 2 chl_ren,Ck>lllns,„olTaißnn, Misses Isaac, Conns.', and Master Collins.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

London. Maroh 28 Arrived* Wave Queen. from Wellington: Langstone, from Lyttelton; Trlnmph, from tho Bluff; Wanganul, from Napier.

Melbourne, _aroh 27.—Arrived, this morn ing: The Bs/Llarat. from London.

Te _o_uru, this day.-Salled: Cabarfeldh, on Sunday, for an Australian port.

Taubanga, this day.—Arrived: Chelmsford and lona, fiom Auckland. Bailed; Douglas, for Auckland, 8 a.m.

Lyttelton, this day.—AntYed: Rebecca, from Newcastle.

Wkstpokt, this Sailed I Maitai, for Auokland, 12.4*1 p.m.

Notices to Correspondents.

R,—Yes. The Statute ot Limitations only bats recovery ot debts six years old*

on the occasion.

Deaths.

HI'N'GKRFORD.-On Mnrqh 28th, at Norfolk . trout, Ponstmoy, Kathleen Fanny, the beloved Infant daughter of John and Jane Hungerfordl; aged 12 months.

Interment private.

RHODEB.-On March 27, 18S7, Jane Ccwell' beloved ohlld of Janus and MaV-y R.iodes > Bged 1 year 0 months. . , MI_ES.-0_ Mate- 2., 1887. at his parents' residents, _ tTelll-streot, Poneonby, after a long una painful illness, Alfred Herbert, the ■ie'arly beloved son of Robert and Eliza Miles ; aged 21 years. R I.P. The funeral wUI leave tho residence, to morrow (Wednesday), at 3 p.m., for the Symonda - street Cemotery. ."rionda please accept this Intimation.

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

TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 1887.

For th« «a«o that l~k» Mtttiftinft, yt>r toe wnthg tfiat IWtfS. rK_M_», Fm- _m ratafts » _iis _&_<:•, __ B3> pffii t_at we cut 'io.

Although a British Protectorate has been established over a large area of territory in New Guinea, comparatively little is being done to develop the resources of that little kttoWn $_iul. The Hon, John Douglas Sn his report iot '1886 says-—"'lf settle'fnciifc, even i_ _, _&__.„__, a__ 'restricted form, is 'S,_th'6i„e'd, trade will grow and leveimo Will come in. The limitations which have resulted from the system of per mits established since the proclamation of the Protectorate has caused trade, small as it even then was, to diminish, rather than to i_c.ease. During the .period I have held office about4oo,oooft of timber has been exported. There Is plenty of _3ch.-cto iner on the coast, and the!, ate valuable pearl-shell beds, but the repeated massacros of the men engaged in these occupations have acted as a great discouragement to enterprise of this kind, and it practically does not exist at the present time. Nor have 1 felt justified, under present circum stances, in giving any encouragement to the development of these industries, when it was not in my power to afford the people engaged in them any protec tion, or to place them under any satis factorily regulated system." This is a very unsatisfactory condition of affairs when we compare it with the energy displayed by the Germans, under the private company to whom the control of German New Guinea has been be queathed by Royal Charter. A recent visitor to the German headquarters at Finch-Hafen states:—

The New Guinea company at once, after issuing of the Imperial chartor, set to work to carry out the various duties falling to its share. In November, 18S5, the first station was founded in Finsch Hafen. This is at present the head station of the com pany and the seat of government. _ It is an extensive plain, bordered on ono side by the deep and safe basins of Finsch-Hafeii and inland by high and steep hills, partly covered with grass and partly with forest. The extensivo buildings of tho Governor and his staff of officials, as well as other employed, are picturesquely situated under the shade of largo and shady forest trees. Government House, erected on a point at the entrance of tho harbour, com mands a fino view alone* the const anel to the far-off lying islands Kuck and New Britain. Streets have been laid out, and houses in various states of erection are

springing up along them. On a small island in the outer harbour extensive storo buildings have been erected, and tho island connected by a solid-built dam with the mainland. The fleot of tho company, consisting of tho Florence Dan vcrs and Esmeralda, as well as tho steamers Samoa, 120 tons, Otilio, 260 tons, and the Isabel, 600 tons, are generally anchored in tho outer harbour, off the island Madang. Numerous boats and steam-launches at all times of the day ply between tho shore anel the vessels and give tho place a lively and busy appearance. Owing to a very dry season, tho plantations around Finsch- Hafen are at present not in a very flourish ing condition, but the cattle imported from Australia thrive well on tho various gigantic grasses in the surroundings. Besides this head-station, three other stations have been formed, ono at Constantin Harbour in Astrolabe Bay, under the management of tho well-known South Sea traveller, Mr Kubary, and the other further on at the Hastzfeld Harbour.

A purely scientific station has lately been formed 240 miles inland from the mouth of the Empress Augusta River. This station is under command of tho eminent German astronomer, Dr Sehrader, who years ago distinguished himself in an Arctic expedi tion. His staff consists of a geologist and botanist and a practical old hand, who has the command of the carriers who are to accompany the scientißc expedition into the interior.

The Bismarck Archipelago, including New Britain, New Ireland, New Hanover, Admiralties, and tho hundreds of other smaller or lager islands, are a province by themselves, and stand under supervision of a sub-governor, or, as he is called, Director of the Islands. On the island of New Britain (New Pommern) a station has recently been erected close to the Ra lum Plantation, on the ground bought by the New Guinea Company from the firm of Thomas Farrell and Co. This station will be the bead place or capital for the islands in the same way as Finsch Hafen for New Guinea (Kaiser Wilhelmsland). Here the director will have his seat as well as the chief judge of the whole territory. From here stations will gradually be formed on the various islands.

When we contrast this enterprise with Mr Douglas's confession that trade has positively declined since British authority was established in the island, and that he can hold out no encouragement to the development of the natural industries of the country until he is able to protect those who engage in it, we are driven to the con clusion that there is something radically wrong in the system of government for which the joint colonies (New Zea land among the number) are paying _ 15,000 a year. But to put it right by changing the Protectorate into a complete annexation means, according to Mr Romjlly, a guarantee of not less than .£IOO,OOO a year. That amount tho colonies will never agree to pay, nor has any rational reason been shown why they should.

Although the ancient opinion of New Guinea as a land of jungle, reeking with fever, aud inhabited by a fearfully bloodthirsty race of canni bals, has been dispelled, but not until 20,000 miles of valuable territory was lost to Great Britain, tho southern half of the island still remains like a great pearl-oyster, valueless because unopened. Mr Doug las'sreport states "thatthe officer.of the Protectorate resident at Port Moresby have acquired a very considerable influence over the neighbouring native population, and that this has been exer cised with very beneficial results in repressing the intertribal atrocities which are the normal incidents of New Guinea life in its savage state."

But before British rule, was thought of we find Wallace for years living there alone among these elreaded Papuans. Maclay, the learned Russian, dwelling alone for nine years in another part; D'Albertis in a thirty-foot boat travelling hundreds of miles up the principal river thrice, with only four or five companions. Does this carry out the theory put forward against its people 1 The missionaries we find living safely for ten, fifteen, and in one case even thirty years amongst " these bloodthirsty natives." We would recommend our readers to take cum g ratio salis the reports of atrocities reaching us from anti-com mercial sources, which have already done so much harm, and even now hold it in their power to lose us the remaining " protected ' portion of the

I Island. There is a magnificent Held for trade in the great island, continent, and yet British enterprise, according to official avjinissiouq, is being choked by ißoYernraent interference. It is time for tho colonies to consider whether they are justified in paying for such a result. British New Guinea ought to be annexed and handed over to Queens land. If that were done there is little doubt that colonial enterprise would soon run the Germans very hard for the supremacy which they are bent upon securing.

On ottr fourth paj.o to-dfty, we publish tho results of tiiq teachers' examination.

Tho Mlofrihg r.ro additional names of Auck land candidates who passed in subjects re 'tMiired to completo former examinations :— Nellie (E); Stoel, Peter Gi'lioa (D); Stevenß, Percy EdwardH (D); Thomp son, Roaina Eliza (I)); Weston, Jcssio (E); Whitakcr, Joboph Robort (D); Whitelaw, Margaret (D), In a roport upon the foyer cases at the Hospital, read at tho meeting of the Charitable Aid Board yesterday, Dr. Franklin said :—" As a rulo, tho majority of tho cases that ooroo to tho Hospital nro not only, typhoid cases, bub also compli-' cated . with other diseases. While other cases are moved while in a dying .tat©, I do not . blame anyone for tho complications but the people themselves who havo boon hard livers, But lam of opinion that a great number of caeos would be saved if font in early, as it is a well known fact that people who do not give in to the disease and lie up at once are the worst cases. Also, that sending thorn in late to tho Hospital just before death givos them no chance, and runs up our bill of mortality, and is unfair to the nursing stall." Dr. Franklin concluded by saying he simply wished to proteeit tho Hospital from .malig nant attacks by por.-ions who did not kno.w what they wore talking about. The Chair man montionod that th.ro was a fovor am bulance at the Elliott stroet ontranco to tho Market, and keys wero left at tho Police Station and other places. Several changes havo been made in tho Auckland Custotne; Department, to tako effect from April Ist, as follows : —Captain Thomas, chief clork, retires, and Mr J. R. La Naueo (ills tho vacancy. Mr Judd, Customs oilicor at tho Sugar Works, retires, and his placo will bo taken by Mr C. C. Goro,of Taranaki, Mr C. Rowc, ship ping clork takos tho position of warohouso keopor,and Mr J. Dickey,of Lytteltnn, is to till the vacency cauecd by Mr Rowo'a ad vancement. Captain Commandant Lo Roy (Naval Battalion), Major Hamlin (Waiuku), and Captain Morrison (Permanent Artillery) have boon appointed a Board of Enquiry into] tho recent troubles in No. 3 Battalion, which resulted in the re signation of tho Ponsonby Rifles, and thoy v ill coinnionco their sittings to-morrow. The case of the Colonial Printing and Publishing Company versus Wilson aid Homo,which was to havo como on for hear ing to-day at tho District Court, was ad journed by consent sine die.

A boy namod Thomas Weston, \tho escaped from the Kohimaruma Training School some days ago, anel had since been at large, was arrested at Onohunga yoator day, and sont back to tho school.

Marwood Roborts Curnow, of Auckland, warehouseman, anel James Lowe, grocer, carrying on business under tho niiino oi

Lowe Bros., to-day liied potitions to bo ad judged bankrupts.

At tho Police Court to-day, four persons were charged with drunkenness. Henry J. Atkins, i>lias Milward, alias Dalton, was charged with breaking and on tering tho dwolling-houso of Charles Worral at Onohunga, with intent to steal goods thorcfrom. Sergeant i'ratt applied for a remand for a week, Tho accused wus found in tho room in question wilhout any lawful excuse,mid had only just completed a term of imprisonment on a charge of larceny. Other charges would bo brought! against tho prisoner. Tho remand was granted. Messrs S. Y. Collins and VV. Weston wore tho presiding justices.

Kefercnco has ropeatodly been mado to the extortionate charges mado at eomo labour agencies iv Auckland, and another case, which is vouched for, has been brought under our notice- A man, whoso penniless condition was so extreme that ho was bordering on a stato of starvation, applied

at a local registry otlice for a situation

as cook. The koopor of tho place rofuscd to givd tho address unless ho signod a papor promising to pay UOs if ho got tho situation, lie was helpless anel signod tho paper, and subsequently got tho situation. Now his first earnings must go to liquidate tho heavy charge made by tho koopor of tho r. gistry r.itico, iuatead of to his family, who aro so much in need of tho money. Tho case is only ono of a number that have occurrod latoly. The General Government invito tenders in an another column for the supply of boxes and baskets to bo used in connection with the parcels-post businose. Tenders are invitod up to tho 7th day of May next. About midnight of yesterday a stall oc cupied by a native known as Alfred ,leo was discovered to be on fire. Conetablo Rowe and Watchman Watson broke open the place and extinguished tho flames before any serious damage was done. Iho causo of the outbreak is unknown. Referring to tho French warship Du quesno, now in harbour, "Visitor" writes suggesting that a good trado might be dono on board by anyone with a knowledge of the French lajguage. Tho sailors and marines express surprise that no small traders have gone off to the ship, which is open to them from 9 to 10 a.m. and from 1 to 6p m. The following aro the kinds of articles that will bo likely to find a salo there: - Artisans'whitepantaloons, coloured cotton shirts, thread, ebons, soap, knivos, paper, iok, copybooks, tobacco, etc. Vendors of fruit, and of things palatable generally, would bo welcome.

Mr H. C. Shorlock, who has occupied tho position of shipping clerk to Messrs Cruick ehank and Co. for tho past cloven years, left for Sydney by the steamer Manapouri last evening. Tho vacancy thus caused is to be filled by Mr J. W. Williams. The annual meeting of the Auckland Re gatta Club was to have been held last even ing, but owing to Iho absonco of tho Treasurer, had to bo poetponeri till Monday evening next, An entertainment in aid of tho Dovonport Presbyterian choir fund will be given on Thursday evening next, at half-past 7 o'clock, in the Devonport Hall. Tho pro gramme is a very varied and interesting one. Mr J. J. Boak, tho elocutionist, ne-

sisted by professionals and leading amateurs from Auckland, will take part. Mo doubt a large audience will greet the performers

Mr P. Doran's variety company intend giving a performance at tho Glaetstone Hall, Northcote, on Friday evening. A good programme is being prepared for the oc casion.

Tho usual monthly mooting of tlio Auck land Instituto of Architects was hold in tho Museum last evening, whon tho I'rosidont (Mr Bell) occupied tho chair. A letter was read from tho Koyal Colonial Instituto, Lou don, intimating that a voto of thanks had been accorded to tho Auckland Instituto for the photographs of Auckland buildings lately exhibited at tho Colonial and Indian Exhibition, and proaented to tho Koyal Colonial Institute at the close of the Exhi bition, Tho competitive deeigns for prizes in connection with tho Society of Arts wero next opened, thero being but ono design in the first section for a drawing of a bay window, which was, however, awarded a prize of two guinea., the draughtsman being Mr A. White. In the second section, for a drawiDg of a Corinthian capital and bat-o,

there wero throo designs, and after balloting it was found that thoso under mottoca

*' Pericles " and " Acanthus " had an equal number of votes. It was, thereforo, decided to divide tho first prizo between the two competitors. Upon opening tho envelopes "Acanthus" proved to be Mr \V. _'. Robinson and " Pericles "MrA. H. White. In bisnb senco, M r Hammond's motions wore deferred. Tho wording of a form Of diploma was read and approved, and it was arranged that the Council should consider the quostion of the present state of the timber trade. The meeting then adjourned.

A woman named Elizabeth Keith mot with a "hocking death through drink at Dunedin. She had left home for drink, re turned lather under the Influence of liquor, and had then gone to lie down, Dr. Ogston stated that death was caused by suffocation through breathing of vomit into the lungs. She had apparently vomited while asleep, and this caused death.

The Devonport Band will perform sacred music .on Cheltenham Beach, North Shore, on Sunday afternoon next. .

Mr Ehrenfried has received from the Com missioners .of the Indian anil Colonial Ex hibition a biouzo medal and diploma for hia Thames brewed beer. This ia tho only known award for any colouial beer brewed iv the North Island,

Tho city defaulters' rate Hat ia now in sourso of compilation in terms of tho Muni cipal Act. Tboso who do not deßire.their names to appoar therein should pay all rotes now duo on or bofore tho 31st (Thurs day).

We nro glud to loam from Mr G. Goldie, tho Sanitary Inspector for the city, that tho dreaded tyrchoid fovor seems to b_ under the decline, to Judge fronl tho leseentng number of reports of cases ro coivod by him.

Mr Cibbes, of Auckland, tho charterer of tho bri„antin_ Aurora, states that tho vessel was bound from Ne.w.astl'o to this port, and not for Port Mackay, as erroneously stated tho other;.day .l As tho Aurora loft New castle on 9th February, and thas not been heard of since, it is feared that she has foundered.

. Tho eorvico of sacred musicby Mr Pooley 's choir was given on Sunday afternoon, and was rondered with caro and attention to expression. The solos wore " Pro Peccotis, from the "Stabat Mator," and "In Native Worth," from "Tho Croation," both well rondored. Mr Worthington, Head master of Wellealey-streot School, gave a reading from "Paradise Lost," which was a very pleasant item in the a'ternoon's programme.

Tho usual meeting of the Dovoiiport Borough Council did not take placo last evening on account of a quorum not boing in attendance, the Mayor being detained at a tnoeting of tho Hospital and Charitable Aid Board. As there was no business of importance to bo brought torwrttvl.t-he- meet ing was adjourned until next Monday.

.Last night, at tho Excelsior Hall, Now ton, a meeting was held by members of tho Radical Roform League, Mr Lopper in tho chair, to oloct a committoo to carry out the work connocted with the address to Sir Roboit Stout. Messrs Judson, Batty and Jcuno wore elected as a committee of management, and o lottor from tho Prcmior saying ho could not nnino the date of his visit to Auckland was. road. It was determined to ask His Worship tho Mayor to take tho chair at tho meeting.

Rev. J. J Brown, of Melbourne, delivorod alocturo in tho Pitt-street Wesloyan School room last, evening, on "Tho World's Biygest Things." Mr W. Thome occupied tho chair. Tho Pitt-streot String Band was present, and va.icd the proceedings with selections from *' JudasMaccabaius." Tho lecturer described a trip from Molbourne, through America to tho old country, and references wore made in passing to the " sights "t » route, A voto of thanks was passed to Mr Brown at tho close of tho lec ture.

Tho first mooting of tho Auckland Draughts Club took placoon Saturday even ing at tho Newton Baths. There wero about twenty players present. After eomo discussion aa to rules, subscription, otc., tho proposals of the committee woro unani mously adopted, with tho oxecption of having only ono meeting night a week, which was changed to two nights viz., Wodnesday and Saturday. Thero was some very inter esting play, which showod that thoro are somo good plnyors in Auckland. Tho enthusiasm with which this Club haa beon started augurs well for its euccoss, and as tho rooms are central, and nothing about them to demoralise, but rathor tho reverse it is hoped many young men will join the Club, anel enjoy an interesting and scientific amusement. It is suggested to have a draughts tournament as foon as tho Club has got into proper working order, so playors had bettor join at once, and make it tho success it deserves.

That private companion can manago to mako railways ppy, even in Now Zealand, seems to bo proved by tho oxporienco of tho Manuw.Uu Railway Company, Their an nual report shows a profit of over "> por cont. on tho cost of the lino, and recommonds a grant to Mr Higginson, engineer, in re cognition of hia forvices, of land or money, equal to six mouths' salary. It proposes a further issue of ,'SO,oooshare* for additional rolling stock, autl to repay advances. Receipts during tho 12 weeks tho line has been opened wero i'i:i,:i9:>, and tho working expenses ±_,7-15. The noxt weok's profit at tho present timo is estimated at £82S 3s S'.l. Tiio cost of the line and rolling stock is sot down at £831,061 7s 9d.

Tho Rev, H, J. Lewis commonced his pastorate on Hunday last at tho NowtOD Congregational Church. There was a largo attendance at both cervices. Tho topic in tho morning was " Tho Pulpit and tho Pew," tho text boing taken from Ephesians, 4th eh., 11th v,, " And Ho gave eomo opeietlos, and somo evangelists, and somo pastors and touchers." The subject in thoovoainr. was, "Tho Churches and tho People," tho text being takon from Mark vi, and .'l7, "Give yo thorn to eat," and also from John vi. and ,')5, "I am tho bread of lifo." Mr Lewis delivered a powerful sermon, epeaking upon tho necessity that oxis-od for moro commercial and political morality. Tho thrco great neods of socioty wero truth, rightoousness, and brotherhood, and it was this that tho churches should give to tho people This, ho feared,thoy could not do until tho Father hood of God, and, as a direct result, tho uni versal brotherhood of men, were established. In tho colonies, they had liberty and equality, but not fratornity. It was this want of brotherhood that caused all tho trouble ; men tried to overreach each other, sold each other, and Blow each other, all for want of this brotherhood. The minis tor thcD dealt iv a trenchant manner with various phases of tho eocial evil, his sermon being listened to with evident intorost.

Tho annual meeting of tho Morth Shoro Football Club was hold at the Masonic Hotel laßt night. There wore about forty members present, and Mr E. W. Burgees was voted to tho chair, Owing to tho ab senco of the Hon. Secretary, there was no report or balance-sheet submitted. Tho following gentlemon wore oloctod officers for tho ensuing eeaeon :—President, J. J. Swinnerton, Esq. (ro-elected); Vice-Presi dents, Col. Roborte, Cupt. Morrison, Messrs A. AliEon, junr., and E. W. Burgess ; Com ruittee, Messrs M. Murphy, C. Marshall, W. Wynyard, H. Gratton, J. TattoiMon ; lion. Soerotary, James M. Sibbin ; Hon. Treasurer, E. W. Burgess; Captuin, W. Wynyurd; Dolegatcs to Rugby Unitn, Messiß A. B. BurgoHßand J. M. Sibbin. It was rceolvcd that tho annual subscription bo tho same as last year, viz , 55.. The Secretary was instructed to senel tho fol lowing resolution to tho Auckland Rugby Uniou :—"That this Club regrets that tho Gordon Football Club Bhould havo selected a uniform co near in appearance to that of this Club, and that the Union be requested to reconsider tho matter of registering thoir uniform." Eighteen now members were eloctod, and a voto of thanks to tho Chair man closed tho meoting.

Wo would remind our readers of the concert tonight at St. Goorgo's Hall, Kowton, in aid of the building fund of Epiphany Church. Tho glees will bo given by tho church choir, while for tho solo parts tho eorvices of ludies and gentlemen outaido tho parish have been eeeured. In arranging tho programme, spocial attention has been paid to comic songs and humorous r oadings, and a very amusing cvoning'a ntertaininent is promised.

Tho " Kawau March," composed by Mr Pooloy, will bo performed by tbo band of tho French warship Duquosno at one of tho open-air performances in tho Albert Park this week. Tho inarch has boon much ad mired by tho Admiral and officers, and it is by the desire of the formor that it has boon addod to tho repertoire of tho ship's band. This must bo highly gratifying to Mr Pooloy, who, it will be remembered, com posed it for the Artillery Band, by whom it was ployed at the birthday ovation to Sir George Grey last year.

Mr S Eastliam, an English gentleman who has resided at North Shore for several years, is leaving ehortly on a visit to the Homo country, and when there he moans to advocato an idea which ho has conceived would greatly advance the Interests of Now Zealand. Ho has got togethor a fine collection of photographs of New Zealand scenery, with portraits of Maoris, etc., and ho has also some beautiful samples of New- Zealand timbers-, worked up so as to chow their suitability for cabinot work. Tbeso he intends to take Home with him, and will got them placed in the Museum at Southport. Before depositing these and othor articles in tho Museum he intends to see tho cura tors of museums and editors of newspapers in tho North of England, and try to interest them in his idea of having a "Now Zea land Corner" in oach mueoum in iho country. Tho idea is a happy one, and no doubt people htre will bo found ready to supply specimens of quartz and other minerals, woods, gum, grain, wool, flax and other products,^ which, shown in tho provincial towns of England, would have a great educating influence Tho photographs alone would be well worth obtaining. Those which Mr Eastham takes include a number of beautifully-finished, full-plate portrait, of Maoris and views of How Zealand bueh, taken by Pulman, of Shortlaud street.

Tho usual quarterly meeting of tho Auck land Lodge, U.A.0.U., was held in tho Club room, I'a'k Hotel, last evening. Arch Druid Bro. Foster presided, and theio was a large attendance of members of the Order, including visiting brethren from Sydney, Tuurunga, and Ponsonby,

CABLEGRAMS.

CONSPIRACY AND INTRIGUE.

Plots in Spain and Bulgaria.

(FEUTISR'S CABLEGRAM )

Madrid, March 27. i A revolutionary plot has beep discovered, and .many arrests made in this city, at Barcelona, and other towns.

(SPECIAL MESSAGE.)

London, March 2S,

An intriguo is- on foot in Fronch poli tical circles to eject M. Goblet, and it is considered probable that it will be success ful.

London, March 28. It is rumoured that fresh risings have oc curred at Widdin and Plevna.

ADMIRAL TRYON'S SCHEME.

Naval I) .'fence of tlic Colonies

London, March 28. —The Admiralty have undor consideration the scheme sug gested by Admiral Tryon for the defence of the colonies. Thoy recognise tho great importance of providing an effective defence consistent with moderate expendi ture, but think that modifications of Ad miral Tryon's scheme are d'oßirablo, and thoy accordingly intend to propose that in stead of a number of vossels of tho type of the Aichor—a torpodo cruiser of 3,500 tous which is being built at Devonport—the licet should consist of fewer ships than rocommondod. That the ships should be swifter, of lareor tonnage, and carrying heavier armament. It is believed that such a floet would not only bo raoro useful, but could be provided at tho sama oxperise as that proposed by Admiral Tryoh.

The Delegates to the Imperial Conference.

[SPECIAL MESSAGE ]

London, March 28.—The delegates to tho Imperial Conforenco intond to moot and arrange a number of extra subjects to bo brought bofore the Conference. Mr Deakin, tho Victorian delegate, dines with Sir Henry Holland on Saturday. Tho delegates wore present at n reception given by tho Countets of Stanhope.

Antartic Exploration.

(RKUTEU'.S TKLEIIIIAM.)

_I_L_o._l_, March 28.—The Committee of tho Royal Geographical Society has roeolvod to ask Sir Graham Berry, Agent-Gonoral for Victoria, to invito oilers from shipowners for a whaling expedition to the Antartic Ocean on iho lines pre viously approved, and Bolicit tho advice °f Sir Leopold McClintock, Sir George Nurcs, and others as to tho conduct of tho samo, New South Wales Budget. Svuf-Y. thisday.—TbcColonialTreaeurer will doliver the Budgot statement to-mor row. The Itulli Colliery Disaster. A meoting to organiso roliof for the suf forors from tho Bulli Colliery d sastor will bo held ot an early dato Throe thousand pounds havo already been raised for iho purpose.

Control or New Guinea

London, March 20 —Sir Samuel Griffith. Premier of Queonsland, had an interview to day with Sir Henry Holland, Secretary of Stato for tho Colonies, with regaid to tho administration of New Guinea. It is ex pected that the question will be speodily settled to the entire satisfaction of the Colonial Governments,

A ROYAL SALUTE.

Frinch Sympathy wld Home

Rule

Tho Pould Kondroyont" fJaononadin' ding clou;;.

UULI) PI.AY,

Slit,- Having a thriflo ny bienees to do wid two frinds at the NorthSlioro yisthordoy, wo embarkod on boord won ay tho pad-Jy whoel

■ shteamors,wlion to ourgra'ii-rpiieo an'con sthernashin iho rammed ethraight atthebig White Frinch man-o'-war. Sez I to the man at tho wheel, sez I, " whore the divil ar yo taken us," eez I. Sez he, "on board tho Jowkane ay coorse " sez he. " The divil shoot you " pcz I. " I want to go to the North Shore," sez I. "All rit.br, Tim avic " sez ho, " shuie* the Admiral tipped mo to shnako yo on boord bo ho k or bo crook," sez he, "for yo Fee," sez he, " tho Admiral tocld mo,'1 sez he, "that ho bad a lot ov doubtful blank carthridges he wanted to get rid ay," sez he, " an' he thought that iv they'd blnze for anybody it's for yereelf," sez he. "All rito," sez 1, ' but bo tho same token I was thinkin' that man at the whool was takon a rise out ay me."

Well, the forry boat ehlowed round alongside. Mesolf an' me frinds mounted tho gangway. Wo shtepped on the dock as bould as brass; ruz our holmots like Irish gentlcmin, as we wor in honor ay the bravo, shiver us nation whoso flag llutthcrod in the bisezoto wel come us, undher I he muzzles ay her guns. We wor resayved among showora ay goold lace, braes buttons, lovely taymales, marlin shpikes, musket., and blundherbussos. Wo wor all attinehun. As we moved along, tho bohoulden ay all behouldhers, who the divil should I sphy but his wurchup, the maro, an Flipper tho toun Clark, talkin boautiful Frinch an parley vooin like blczas to wun ay the officers. Flippers tu.ged hid wurchup's coat tail, an' sez he, " Holy Moses, hero's Doolan." "Whero?" sez his wurchup. " Thoro " sez Flippers. "Let ns go" sez bis wurchup, " they're loadin' the big guns to salu to Doolan " sez ho. ■■ Och, murther " sez FliDpors ; wid that bang wint a big gun, makin' us till lepp on tho deck, the band ethruck up "Garry Owon" an a play chuno ay Marines stud to attin shin an presintcd arms, the Admrnal an all the officers ehtud on their toes and flapped thoir gooldon opilipsys. Tho guns wint an bangin, an I was so overpowered wid tho unexpected honor an the shinell ay the powdhcr, that I tumbled down bolow to hide mesolf, whin wan ay me frinds sung out "Doolan, you divil, whero are you " sez ho, " Here's the Admiral an' the cook," sez he, " wantin' to have a whisky wid yo," sez ho. " I'm thore," sez I. I turned to ascend tho laddher, whin all of a hapo down cums nn ouhl hay bog of a woman scramin' " for the lovo o' God to save hor from tho shootin'." " Hoii'.d on, mam," sez I. "The divil a hould, ecz sho," an' she plumped on the top ay me, and dhruv me undher a gun, from which I was, wid much defewculty, exthricated. Begorra ! I thought tho ship had sthruck a torpaydo. I got up, Bhuk meself, an' wint on deck. The Admiral had gono to tay, I waa tould, an' the divil a dhrop ay whisky did wo get, Eia Wurchup an' Flippers had a good offcrig in a watherman's boat, atm shrimps out ay thoir hats, an' lafifin' like high anias, I'm not an ould man ay sthrange idays, sir, but if I live till the day ay me death (an1 the Lord knows whether I will or not) I'll always believo that His Wurchup an' his eoadjutber "Flippers" laid that ould eighteen shtcno woman uti to mo. It was a palthry thrick anyhow, an' worthy ay 'em; but wait till wo got tho "Faymale SuiTerins Act" paßeed, an' I'll lay a fow ould women on to'em that will make 'em shake in thoir boots, an' give Homebody clso a chance to be entailed to buehtin' wid honour an' glory. Tare an' 'ouns, I feel that 'ould woman's carkiss now, for ehe nearly bruk ©very bone in mo body. I am, Sir, yer balfmurthered ould friud, i

Tim Doolan,

THE FATAL FIRE IN CANTERBURY.

CiiKisTuiiuiiCH, Monday. Tun boy Oscar Anderson, who was in jured in tin fatnl tire at View Hill, died

y.s.erda.

Food i-oi-. Conkumitivi-s. Storr's Emulsion o: PUHI! COI) I.IVKIt Oil. WITH llvru>'ll-*l'li! 1,. . ~

I.IME A-.'lt Sou.!, is a most woillielfltl lootl l'-r il <• t-'O'i- i-itve. It not only give:, blicimih and imirc.ic-, the llesli, bill heals the irritation of the throat .-.ml lungs. It is very palatable: children take it like n/l'- . and in all wasting diseases both f,ji- adttiis an-i

children it is a marvellous food and rrwdictne. Lar-e and small bottles of all Chemists. 4s 6d and is 6d.

THE BULLI COLLIERY DISASTER

SEVENTY MINERS ENTOMBED

ATTEMPTS AT RESCUE,

Terrible Sceucs.

.From Papers por s s. Mararoa 1

A __ABFO_ cataatropho has occurred at Bulli, which is about eight miles north of Wollongong. At half-past 2 o'clock in tho afternoon of March 22nd a terrific explosion took place in tho tunnel of the Bulli Com pany's mino. At the time soyenty men we've in the workings, and it is feared that thoy have all been killed. The tunnel is a long ono, psnetratiDg the hill a distance of over one mile, and most of the men inside were working! at the inmost extremity, known as , Hill End. , Here it is that the explosion is supposed to havo occurred. The first intimation of the disaetor to those outside was tho rush from the mouth of the tunnel of a blast of gas eous air, which threw a boy named Herbert Copo, who had boen driving horses just in side tho mine, a distance of about a hun dred yards. Copo was picked up insensible, but was found to have no bonos broken, and afterwards recovered consciousness. A Frenchman working outside was precipi tated down tho embankment, but, escapeyi serious injury. A pile of timber props out side the tunnel's mouth was blown a con siderable distance. These facts ovidenco tho tremendous force of the explosion ; and it is considered improbablo that anyofthe unfortunate men who were io the workings can have escaped death. It ia feared that if not shattered by the explosion, they must all have been suffocated by the foul (/as thus freed

RELIEF PARTIES.

As soon as tho mon working outsido the mine realised the appalling fact that between sixty and seventy of their mates were in the mino a relief party was formed. It consisted of four men, namod respectively LaDg, Chalmers, Scott, and Hopo. Tht brave fellows faced the dark dangers of that terribio tunnel without a moment's hesi tation. Those outsido waited in breath lees suspeneo for their return. Shortly after tho relief party bad disappeared in tho murky darkness, tho _ shook of two smaller explosions, evidently right in tho interior of tho mine, was felt, and added to the agonising anxiety of those gathered round the entrance. After a period of suspense well nigh unendurable, Lang, one of the relief party, returned to the "mouth of tho tunnel. Ho was com pletely exhausted, and could hardly crawl out. Ho said that hie companions woro in danger. Immediately, further rescue partioe were formed, and ultimately Chalmers, Scstt, ana Hopo were brought out ulive.

THE TUNNEL BLOCKED

Tho further relief expeditions were much hampered for wont of safety lamps. A few of those indieponsables were, - howover, found, and tho work of exploration was vigorously and bravely carriod on. It was discovered that the tunnel was completely blocked some distance from the mouth, and, from tho appearance of the fall-in, it was ovident that tons upon tonß of solid oarth eoparated the inner workings from tho would-be rescuers. It was at once seen that there was hardly tho faintest ground for hope that the poor fellows who had been working within had escaped destruction. Nevertheless, although the work was une of despair and torrible difficulty, the rescuers set to work with desperate determination.

BODIES RECOVERED.

By C pm. tho dead bodice of Felix Bourne, William Bourno, sen., William Bourne, jun , Melville, two men of tho name of Muckey, a man named Wado. and George Ralph had been brought out. Tho remains wero shattered and charred in a horriblo mnnnor.

SCENE AT THE MINES MOUTH,

Meanwhile the terrible news had spread far ar.d wide, and a largo crowtl had gathered round tho mouth of tho tunnel. Horo the scene was of a most heart-rend ing description. Wives and mothers, and children of tho imprisoned miners were gathored, and their lamonts woro loud and piercing. They know that there was hardly a hope that any one of thoso poor fellows would bo brought out alive- yet their prayers for tho rescue of the husband, or son, or brother, or fathor, wero nol lees affecting than their cries of despair.

The precise number of thoso who wero at work in the mino at tho time of tho explo sion is not known, and is variously estimated at from forty to seventy. It is believed tho total will bo found to be nearer Iho latter figure. Tho scene at the mino this morning is heartrending, and painful in the extreme. Women and children aro rushing to and fro calling the names ot tho loved ones whom they may never hope to see again. One woman was in extreme agony of grief, and went hopelessly mad, requiring restraint. She has lost two sons in the u.it.e.

Ac tho dead bodies aro being brought tut tho fccno is absolutely indescribable. The remninti are in eomo ctisos. burned to a cinder. The heads ore smashed in, and the arms and legs broken, and fear ful gashes appear on tho bodies. The clothes in many cases aro burned to ashe?. The hair is singed from tho beads and faces, and the He«h roasted and shrivelled, on crooked, stiffened limbs. Identification is almost impossible, though it is attempted by examining the clotheß of thoso brought te the mouth of tho tuino.

Fivo known to be lying about a milo and a half from tho pit's mouth, behind what is known as tho "Big Fall." McCabo, manager of the Mount Kcira mine,with a strong relief party, is now in the mine, and does not intend to como out until 3 o'clock, The whole of tho Hill End of the tunnel is ' damaged; and for a con siderable part of its distance the line is blocked, in eomo places being covered by 15 to 16ft of fallen oarlh. The bodies as they aro recovered are borne to tho tunnel's mouth by bearers on stretchers, and taken to tho blacksmith's shop through the crowd of women, who are oogerly waiting for eomo news of their own loved onoa buried under tho ruins of the mine, or lying dead in the workings.

NO HOPE OF SURVIVORS.

Thero ii absolutely no hope of ono poreon, man or boy, being taken out alivo. But tho poor creatures at the mouth remain hoping against bopo, and praying forvontly that the bitter sorrow of their neighbours may not como upon thorn. They cannot or will not believo that the husband who went to his work yesterday morning in all tho pride of strong manhood is dead, Ono distracted wife (widow now) shrieked a? she beat her breast and tore her hair out by handfuls, "Ho is not, ho cannot bo dead," They will not realiso the terrible fact. Thoy reftieo to bolievo it, nnd turn savagely on those who approach thorn with a viow of offering consolation. Thoy will not acknowledge, ovon to themsolvos, that tbey have given up hope. But, poor creatures, God help them, they may as woll do co at once.

CAUSE OF THE EXPLOSION.

There is no cluo to tho causo of the catastrophe, and though an inquiry will be hold In duo coureo, it is boliavod nothing will bo elicited as to the origin, as "dead men toll no taloa." It is pron-umod that perhaps one of the lately employed " blacklog" miners engaged near tho old workings had broken through, and with cither a naked light or through lighting a match, had caused tho explosion on tho Hill End work ings. Tho force of the concussion blew out the stoppings nlong tho _trah_ht run, and the foul air and black damp wero forced into the western drive, where about eight men were working at tho time of tho explosion, THE NUMBER OF MEN IN THE

WORKS.

At 2 15 p.m , yeste day it ia estimated there wore fifty-one of tho old hands and twenty blacklegs at work iv the Wo.tern and Hill End mines. Six horses are also enjombed. Seventeen bodies have been -""en, and the majority of theee will pro ba ly be laker: out to-day.

IN THE BEAD HOUSE,

Tt ia a pitiful sight to see those who co eh irtly before were strong, muscular men, lyhg blackened, bruised, aud burned be ,ond recognition—killed in the prime of th tir lives and in the midst of their labours. __} majority of the old hands killed were married men with familiet". The Bowens, lather nnd two sons, lie de-ad side by side in the receiving-hone. Thero no three Walker, and three Harrises ameng toe miss ing. Mrs Mackey has lost her hus-band and two sons, anil is left with six other C-iii.iarMiv.i_- ...hi... c! il !ri n t_ battle with the world alone. Tho lirat to be re c-.ivered v ere those of Otwoy Bowen and Felix Butv cii. They were killed where they had been working. Tho former had hh

head cut open in various places, the. latter his leg and arm broken and head cut. _ne clothing was burnt off and the eyes cut out, George Stephens was terribly mutilated! tho others were loss terribly knocked about. All were black ;s coal; and covered .with cinders, and the flesh was roasted off tbo bones of the fingers, and the toes were curled and shrivelled upi the limbs were stiffened and crooked, and the eyes in some cases burnt clean out. The sight is horrible. IN THE MINE. The special reporter of tho " Evening Nows" says: "This morning, upon; arriv ing at 1 o'clock, I at once proceeded to the mine, and went along tho tunnel as tar as l could go with oafoty. In many places I had to climb for yards over fallon blocks ot stone tons in weight. I had proceeded nearly a mile and a quarter, when I doomed it advifable to return, consequent od the effect of tho foul air. No attempt has, so far, been made to explore the western drive. It is alleged that this is impossible at present, owing to the presence of foul air. This opening is temporarily stopped with canvas to keep the fire damp back, and direct tho course of the supply of fresh air along the straight run. In the main work ings the very greatest care i 3 required in pas -ng through tovt ards the place where the men lie buried. A lighted torch or a carelesß hand on a prop or a cap piece, and thousands of tons of the crumbling earth and rock may be precipitated to the level of the floor. As it is the journey, is fraught with intense danger, and the brave men who are risking their liveß to recover the bodies of their comrades display a true spirit of heroism,

THE AWFUL SOUND.

The report was beard at North Bulli, three miles away ; but few except tho old minors and tho women, who had heard that awful sound before, rccogniEed the note of death. Tho .terrible nows spread like wild fire, and by 4 p m. poople from far and near were gathered at the mouth of the pit.

ASPECT OF THE TOWN.

The town of Bulli to day wears a funereal aspect Mon are wandering listle?ely and aimlessly about waiting for news which cannot, unless by the interposition of a miracle, be good news. Women are rush ing frantically about, praying, weeping, ap pealing to God to pity them and to men to aid them. What can be done is being done, but the work of the le.covery of a few even of the bodies will extend over some days. All business in the town is sus pended. HOW MANY WERE THERE?

Mr A. Turner, tho police magistrate at Wollongong, wired to thoMinistor of Mines at 8 o'clockthU morning :-"As far as can bo ascertained, about 75 men tiro in the Bulli mino ; but there is no hope of any being alivo. Six bedies have been brought out, and five others have been seen in the mine, but have not jet been brought out. Tho managers of the other mines are render ing assistance with the relief parties."

THE BULLI MINE,

It is only recently that the long strike at the Bulli Colliery was terminated and the mine resumed full work. The full number of employees is about three hundred men. Bulli is sixty miles south from Sydney, and i. a mining township situated between the Illawarra Monntaine and the coast The Bulli Company's mine penetrates the hill at a distance of about two miles from the sea- The workings are veiy extensive, and ex tend for a mile and a half from the mouth of the tunnel.

MORE FIRES.

FIRE AT PONSONBY.

An outbreak of lire occurred about four o'clock this morning on the promises of Mr Georgo Sago, Emmet, street, Ponsonby. A stable, wash-house, and closets were des troyed before theprogrees of the fire could bo stayed. Tho buildings were insured for _100 in tho South British Office, and this amount will, it is expected, cover the damage done.

(liV TELEGRAPH —OWN COKKE.SI'ONDENT )

HOUSE DESTROYED AT THAMES.

Thames, this day,

A live-roomed house in Waiotahi Creek, owned and occupied by an old man named Robert Smith and his wife, was totally destroyed by fire about S3O last night. Tho fire originated in a back room where wood is kept, and had a very firm hold of tho building beforo it was discovered. The losb is estimated at i'SO.and there aro no in euranccs.

Paekoa, this day.

Stables and shed containing hay and corn stacks, belonging to Mr Franklio, of Waitawhate Valley, were all destroyed by lire on last Saturday night. There wore no insurancus, and tho owner, who estimates his loss at £300, cannot account for the origin of tho fire.

[BY TELEOKAI'U—PKESS ASSOCIATION.]

FIRE IN WELLINGTON.

Wellington, Monday,

Just before eight p.m. tho top story of tho Hew Zealand Insurance Buildings, at the corner of Lampton Quay and Grey street, was noticed to be on tire. The flames had burst out in the lavatory among some loose papers, and could have been readily ex tinguished ifafew buckets of water had been available. Before the Brigade got the hose to play the fire had spread sufficiently to gut the top flat and the rest of the building, which is a largo wooden structure, was damaged by water. Thelnsurance Company occupied the ground floor, and tho top was divided between tho Egyptian Cigarette Company and tho Underwriters' Association. Insurances : — On the building : South British, North British, Colonial, London, Liverpool and Globe, £500 each. Imperial and Norwich Union, £750 each. The Lon don, Liverpool and Globe had also £250 on furniture, and the New Zealand £150 on the Cigarette Company's stock. Tho dam age is more than covered by insurance.

SPORTING NEWS

The two-year old colt Niagara has been located at Mr Haletead's stable during the day, and he bat been looked over by a laigc number of interested persons. Nia gara will be chipped to Sydney by the Manapouri this evening. Tho dato of isftuDg the weights for tho Tukapuna races has boon postponed till S»turdoy. Beeswing's name was omitted from the Autumn Handicap entries

The racehorses Pearl, Rivulet and Vol cano wero shipped from Napier on Friday last to take part in the Taranaki races this week, The trio will in all probability arrive in Auckland next week to fulfil their A. li C. engagements.

Nominated Immigrants for Auck land.

(BY UtLEGKAPH, — OWN CORRESPONDENT )

Wellington, this day. Tiiiiouem the courtesy of Mr Redward, of the Immigration Department, I am enabled to forward you a list of the nominated im migrants who sailed for Auckland by the 8.8. Arawa on the 26th of last month:— Edmund Bowler, Eliza Ann Annie Dean, Jeremiah Flynn, Janet Gow, Isabella Jickell and four children, John Johnson, David Kerr, John Ktohn, Ernest King, Mary Lithorland and i children, Jano and William Macandrew, Rebecca Madison, Eliza and Frances Mayer, George Morfett, wife and 4 children, Alfred Morrison, wife and 3 children, Margaret and Lavinia Kewall. Edward Kobstm, wife and 3 child ren, Annio flutter, Richard Storey, David Tennan, Evolino and Monieu Tynan, Mary Weir and 3 children, and Harriet Wilson.

OPERA HOUSE— "Jim, the Penman."

Siu Giiarlks Young's four-act comedy drama of tho above title was produced to a modorately large audience at tho Opera House last night, and fully realised all the high anticipations that precedent report had raised concerning it. There is nothing meretricious in its compo.'ition. It ib a re markably Jtine play, we'l-conceived as,to plot, ana carried up to its develop ment with rare ability and a keen appreciation of dramatic effect. More than this, it affords ecopo for great force of characterisation and subtle skill in the ex position of emotional feeling. The piece was staged in first-cla?a style, and itß action from beginning to close was exceedingly smooth. We have no hesi tation in pronouncing it tho trump card of the season, uutl in commending it to the public _s a play. of vory groat merit presented with singular strength and completeness. Wo regret that we have not space for a more extended notice iv to day's issue.

OUR GOLDFIELDS

(EY TELEQIUrU—OWN 00_RESPOND_N_,l

Thames, Monday, ~ Cambria.-The amalgam which has been obtained from the goneral dirt treated a. this Company's battery since the cleaning up on the 16th inst. was retorted to-day tho yield being 2060z 7dwt melted -gold from 115 loads of general dirt. The speci mens which havo accumulated have not yet been crushed. , ...

The tailings allotment on the foreshore consisting of 3;. acres, was sold by auction to-day to Mr J. G. Ralph at an annual I rental of £20 for seven years.

Kabanoahake, this day. Woodstock. —170oz of retorted bullion qbtained from treatment .of 10 tons;,.! quartz for this mine .was reduced to 1650_ 12dwfc on melting, and the following is it_ assay value : Bcz 15dwt, obtained from boxes and plates, realised 22s 2d per ounctv 156rz 17dwt, from . pans .and settlers! 8s 5d per oz ; total, £69 12s 3d, or at the rate of £7 per ton. This is a splendid re turn from a reef averaging three feet fa thickness, and tho proprietors of the ipfa 9 should go in at once for establishing pgm in their furnace building.

DEAD BODY FOUND.

(BY TELEGRAPH. —PRESS ASSOCIATION.j

Westpom, t_iaday,'.■';.' The body of a man was found in the _iirf. to the south of tlie Buller Elver yesterday!' He has evidently come down the stream.*. The body is decomposed, and there are, wounds in the neck and cheek. Whether these were caused bofore death or by Bnaßj" in the river since death, cannot at present be settled, j :,.-.

COLONIAL DEFENCE WORKS.

[BY TELEGRAFIi.- PRESS ASSOCIATION.,

Wellington, this day." Tun defence worke of tho colony having (t_> vanced to near completion, it is intended that tho Public Works Officers who have been superintending tho construction shall ■be withdrawn, ana the remainder of the work carried on by the Permanent Artillery, under Mr Arthur Bellasengineeri'

NEW TIME-TABLE AND EASTER ARRANGEMENTS.

A new time-table comes into force on April

A new train leaves Onehunga for Auck land at 9.30 a.m , reaching Auckland at 10.10 a.m.

A new train leavos Auckland for One hunga at 10.40 a.m., reaching Onehunga at 11.20 a.m.

A new train leaves Onehunga for-A.ck» land at 12.10 p.m., reaching Auckland a. 12 50 p.m. A new train leaves Auckland at 4.55 pin; for Penrose. ...,>.•

The 7 15 a in. from Auckland to Helena vide leaves at 7 a.m., arriving propor tionately earlier. The 630 a.m. from' Helensville leaves at 6.20 a.m., and arrives in Auckland proportionately earlier. The train leaving Lichfield daily at 12.6 p.m. for Auckland, and the train leaving Morrinsville daily at 2.50 p.m. for Lichfield (in connection with the 8 a.m. ex Auckland), will run only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, in future. The Te Aroha branch train in connection with the 8 a.m. ex Auckland will in future run only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, .and Saturday*, and a new branch service will run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fri days, in connection with the 11.40 a,tn, ox Auckland. _ £s_____ji The Cambridge branch connection vith the 11.-10 a m. ex Auckland, and also thai connecting with the main line train reaching Auckland at 9.30 pm.,will run only on Wednesdays and Saturdays. These are the principal alterations, ,7 For Easter Saturday return tickets will be issued from any station to any station, April 6 to April 11, available for return up to April 25 Cheap extended excursion tickets will be issued from Auckland and Nowmarket to tho principal Waikato stations by any train, April 6 to April 11, available for return up to April 25. The journey may be broken both going aridw turning, provided the time is not exceeded. Cheap excursions will leave Auckland and other Btations on Good Friday for Mercer,: Helensville, Huntlj, Ngaruawahia, Ohaupo, Te Awamutu, Hamilton, Cambridge, and To Arohs, retnrning the same day at day trip fares, or extended tickets may be taken with stop-over privileges. Excur sion trains to Waikato will also leave Auckland on Easter Saturday.^ On Easter Monday a cheap excursion traiu will leave the principal Waikato stations for Auckland races and city. Special trains will/in addition, bo run to meet the holiday re quirements. These will be duly adver tised.

WELLINGTON NOTES.

(by teleokafh—own cobbespokdeht.)

Wellington, this day. The Bishop Goes to Te Aroha- | Thk Bishop of Wellington, who is Buffering from the effects of an accident sustained through falling downstairs while proceeding ' to a fire three weeks ago, has decided to try the curative properties ofTe Arona Hot Springs. His lordship,'who will:be : accompanied by Mrs and MiES Hadfield, . , will leave for Auckland in about ten days. Rabbit Exterminator.

Mr George Williams has arrived from . Auckland with the object of publicly: demonstrating the utility of hU . rabbit exterminator. He has hid : an interview with the Colonial Secre tary, and on the suggestion of that hon. gentleman he has decided to go to Masterton and show the local Inspector"o I ;:.i Sheep what Mb invention is capable of ath jgi in S- _, .

The Manawatu Railway.

It is rumoured that the balance-cue.l of the Wellington - Manawatu Railway Company, to be presented to the approaching annual meeting, will show that tince the lino has been opened it has earned a clear seven par cent, on the cost of construction over and above working expenses.

Sir Julias Vogel. Sir Ju_us Vogel left for the South last evening by the Hinemoa, in order to address his constituents at Chrittchurch on Thurs day.

Jubilee Address.

Tho Jubileo address from the New Zea land Legislature to her Majesty the Queen is now complete, and as a work, of art tho volume is certainly the most beautiful of its kind ovor turned out in the colony. The gold corners.on each of which is a small imperial Grown in relief with sprays of oak leaves branoh-. ing from it at either angle, set off the greenstone inner frame with good effect, and add greatly to the rich ness of the whole design. The binding hM been executed with great taste and f?°f" workmanship. On tho front cover are the words " The people of New Zealand to the Queen, 1587." Every part of the colony is representod by some portion of the work, and it may serve to show what labour has been entailed in the production when I state that the inlaid wood • work of Mr Seuffort, of Auckland, although contained in so email an area, occupied something like four months in comple tion, and that the magnificent ill"""}" nation work by Mr Bock, of Wel lington, tDok nearly the Eame time. Tho volume contains the congratulatory ad dress to Her Majesty passed iaßt session with the signatures of every member of both Houses. It will be sent Home in time to be presented to the Queen on the 20th June.

Railway Reform. Discussing Mr Travel's proposal that Government ehould lease railways^to re sponsible companies, the "Post sug gests that as the Auckland people appear to believe in Mr Vaile's much talked of sys tem of tariff, they should be allowed to try it at their own expense. If the Govern ment would lease the Auckland linesfor, say, fourteen years, Mr Vailo could possibly raise a local company to take them up ana try his system.

Victoria Arcade.—The latest and be»t Sewing Machines. D. S. Chambers. Repairs at London prices at u-.ua].

Ax AI.ABAsTOtt 111)...— yjtlitj. pi-la tlndlDg ll.i-'ir i-,-tt:i,,li >in j_rt wit _ -i,:ltnv tind theirsttin 1.-, Luiniii.: re;in.-_i t,:- fi-orl-.lt. re on to pm fumed i-ii.imcnt.,i (..rii restoiotlon of their bloom. All such thou'el use amtiicau Co.'s Hop Bitters, which will restore bloom to cheeks whiteness and beauty to their coniple_ion, maknur non blood, good health, and happy emUes. wew.

_____ AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 1887,



DR. LEGER ERSON, oTOtah'uhu, begs to intlmato to hie patients and friends that, on and attec tho 28th Instant, he will carry on the practice of his profession at the house formerly ooonpled by the late Dr. Goldsbro', Partrrtl.



SPECIAL PRICES, TO MEET THE TIMES. MILNE AND CHOYCE Beg to Notify that they have made T AR G E T>ERMANENT T_ EDUCTIONS In the Prices oltheir LADIES' AND CHILDREN'S UNDER CLOTHING AND BABY LINEN, These Goods are Imported from the Largest and Most UellableManufecturerß In London, and are guaranteed to bo Well made and ot Good Quality, As these Goods are now Marked at so Small a Profit, larger Quantities sic Icing Jmpted In anticipation of a Greatly Increased Bale. INSPECTION IS INVITED. MILNE AND ChOYCB, QUEEN AND WKLLEBLKY STREETS W. S. L AURI" * C°- CUSTOMS AND STANLKY-STREETS, AUCKLAND. Seed and Manure Merchants Bonednst Manufacturers Agents for Peruvian Government Guan. Importers of Fencing Wire, Backs. WM Packs, etc. Cash Purchasers ot Bona* A DAM T AYBOUBN _ f\o., AUCKLAND. NEW CLOVER ) Best English Seeds, from . James Carter _ Co, NEW TURNIP) The Queen's Seedsmen. RYE GRABS, COCKSFOOT, and NATURAL GRASSES. All new Seeds. Fencing. Wire at Reduced Prices. •■pOIiDBN GEM" FLOUR "XL ALL" OATMEAL Are th» best brands in this market, TRY THEM. ALFRED JOWITT, SOU AOENT. Jtt"OTIOB OF REMOVAL. W. B. MELDRUM, TAILOR. Wishes to Inform his nnmerons friends and .us tomers that he has REMOVED to those more Central and Spacious Premises adjoining W. Norrle, SHORTLAND-STBEBT, And begs to solicit a continuance of past patron age by all old and new patrons. Suits fbom £3 15a. All Work done In First class Stria, N.8.-In Uendan.oW_BNSS9ikYan_BA.uit. ■ bay Nights till .o'clock. -""■»■ "**«*• ; - ] PARK HOY 8B ! (Metropolitan Clnb». V OTOBIA-BTRKET BABT, ' HEAB 4LBEBT PAIUt BHTBANCM. ' FIRST CLASS PRIVATE BOARD AND ( RBSIDENCB, Lofty, wen-lighted, and ventilated Bed and C Bluing-rooms, Bath-rooms, and every eonveui- . enoe tor Families, Travellers, and Boarders. ' Tkbms. a Per Week, . WRIGHT'S PRIZE BILLIARD TABLE, c Private Suites for Families, and every Attention . Combined with Comfort I __,__ -. B- DAWK 3, Proprietor. P Telephone 311. 0 "POR SALE, p The following EXTRAORDINARY BAR- li GAINS at FERNANDEZ'S, Newton :-l oase „ of Men's Real Pith Helmets, 2s 6d each c< honestly worth 10s; Men's Servioable Dark b Tweed Suits (oomnlete), for 16s, reduced from 25b Men's Strong Working Shirts with Collars Is rid each, usual price, 2s 6d. i Coloured Moleskin Trousers far working men, 3s lid a pair; Good Quality Urge White a Markets li lid each, worth 7s __;__ dcaen Boyß' Blaok Felt Hats, Is oach, former price 2s n Also: fi3.000 worth of General Dupery and d &^^r,__u?av_?SS h bDT Z rDr.^,&Uafc^ *