""Tisditor :Sir.-I see with pleasure flft'Keofyoiir paper a letter in int° d By f the fflidmmmer holidays being favour or K&, May I also put in a plea J*".', ffi decision. I fear that short £*> nS ffivs will only add to the great •** ftffiess there always is during Ir months. It is almost impossible the to give their attention to les "U sffb thieve a lon-holiday to pro me**' 1 ? A Mothkk. Nov. & ,■ foment in another column it J. H. Witheford's ten •i" be the ile right of advertising on the i* ioxi A Action of the New Zealand A« cUand hi been accepted by the Hon. railways H"J pub)ic Works on be - 5& Queen. 1 ,, l plection of new members of The » n .3 Hospital and Charitable Aid K U 2ll take Plwe on Wednesday next, W* Jnhere are required. Rodney fl** Smata.and Onehunga Borough n t l SonUbers; areentiticct aml the Eden Road GtyCrf pavnell, Newton and New- elect one representative, and rfnau and Onehunga two. Htf Htion inviting Mr F. G. Clayton to election as Mayor of New to St to course of signature. *, . Vaile and Douglas will hold a KJ«*» ab their R T IS ' Sh M- rfc saleiot re» to-morrow. Among other lena-st-; mi , ffil j sv ,bmit the comfortable properties v j Road nQyy owned and Carl Schmitt, also pro "SKtKnsonby and Mount Eden. ■* • !H«n is beinn- got up to Mr F. G. A requisition is D.ein o^m ofNewmarket. Mr C. Goocl ■STwho had also been requisitioned to Shis retired in Mr Clayton's favour. kerned George Cashn, anas Henry c\nS estedthis afternoon charged tftffeny of a clock, the property of Sydney Asher. » n,Af>Hmr of persons interested in the iTdown of Upper Queen-street has S ntedtobe l heldthisevenin, :> at jj o'clock at the Municipal Corporation OffiCerS- wmmmmmmmmm^mmmm

TAKAPUNA JOCKEY CLUB.

« w VoSa™ P " IES

A LIVELY MEETING,

jgjjffi has been a good deal of comment in town respecting the action of the Taka. pans jockey Club in entering into an ar- BBgement with the Devenport Ferry Com pany for the exclusive right of convey to'ticket holders for the race mect ty'to be held at North Shore on Satur- L the 26th inst. It appears that this .•L on of the disposal of privileges Lried'up at an ordinary meeting of the Minis held on Tuesday evening last, irifrom inquiries we have made we learn tb'tfc the proceedings were of a very ijM character. There were present: Haera E. W. Alison, (presiding), Hedley, Fraser, Steward, O'Neill, Wells, fi» treasurer and secretary. On the mention re dispoanl of privileges at Sβ November meeting being raised a limstion was made that this matter might ray well be arranged between the Club and WftTOnporfc Steam Ferry Company. It IB pointed out that there had been a ltdiotion of fares made in connection ;ntb the Auckland racecourse in _ con ™wt!e of the dulness of the times, nd that it would be advisable for Uβ Takapuna Jockey Club to adopt a simi kr course.,:, A proposal was submit/ -A by lir J. Mays, seconded by Mr Well;*, xo the 4|t"Thatif arrangements can be made lilt the" Devonport Ferry Company by tfeh' a through ticket (including boat !pi and entrance to the racecourse) ail be arranged at Is, such offer should 'it accepted." It was stated that the Dwwpprt' Terry Company would pub fcfcetloMers on the ground for Is per J^,'and pay the Club 3d per head, thus ttfaSniiig 4d'on each ticket sold This tolild give the public entrance to the i i&ie for Is per head 'astead of Is 6d, as loratrlv. ' iMr Rowley moved, and Mr Pitts wwded, "That the privileges be sub : utted to auction in the usual mariner," Mil .objected strongly to the Devonport * Cpipainy being granted a monopoly. A yery heated discussion ensued, in tiich no secret was made of the intention ■. ndtflect of the resolution, viz, to give fclie Monport.'Company a monopoly of ihe 'taffiein connection with the races of the udnsionof the North .Shoir; Ferry C'om pwy. The supporters of the resolution wged the ominis of tho Devon, P«t Company on the Club on fiegrqunds thatithad contributed annually Ui i of from £10 to £20 towards the Club tie, aiid that certain erentlemen in teeted in the opposition company had •athe Dast been unfriendly towards the The Chairman (MrAlison), who took Prthtlie dißcussion,|issaid to have stated «if the Club did not come to terms with wDeronport Ferry Company he would fiercise hie right to prevent the steeple «ebeing run over a certain paddock, not Waded in the lease held by the Jockey W'v This, iof . course, would be '.Krions objection, and it was ad -J«W that the steeplechase could Woe,run in the event of Mr Allison Jtyfogcut any such threat. We under- Wtfiat'Mr Alison denies having made "*;of the words alleged,- and another "reum of the assertion is that lie pointed W that as the Club had had the use « wiie paddock free of charge for many i®* and as the ownera had lost several consequence of insisting that ™Übli should resen-e the right to run the it, the request now made : -Wwalf,pf the Devonport Ferry Company "y carry some weight. «c qnestion was eventually submitted, m the voting was equal, five on each Wei l,* 6 9! iairman K ave nis ca sfc | n ? motion in favour of arranging ««8 with the Dovonport Ferry Com ikj!^,, 9 Rowley and Fraser protested HI j . aefcl »od of procedure, and at ""Med in their resignations.

OUR GOLDFIELDS.

.- ' CORRESPONDENT.-)

teof!& Thames, this day. «fe limT l mana " er informs me that there Ojwj about l,Qsoozs amalgam on hand. ml° i Up , ff J ll Probably not take place TrS' end of the month. of gold are seen in Vjyjonetlier side of the reef at No. 4 S ? Saxon  «|foi. t A.-12b8 of picked stone were este rday afternoon from the on No. 6 leader, over No. 3

THAMES NOTES.

OBAJB.— OWN COERESPONDENT.) Thames, this day. '^Vre*S' to form a Burns Nfe'S a Com mittee has been op- the matter.

SPORTING NEWS.

(.BY TELEGRAPH.— PRESS ASSOCIATION*.)

Christchctbch, Wednesday. The New Zealand Cup Protest The stewards of the Canterbury Jockey Club held a meeting this afternoon for th e purpose of considering the position of the Club in reference to the New Zealand Cup race. The reporters were not admitted' but at the close of the meeting were in formed that Mr O'Brien's protest against Lochiel had been disavowed, and the stakes had been paid over to Mr Stead.

An inquiry -was held yesterday afternoon by the Committee of the Auckland Racing Club into the conplaint lodged by several persons that the right dividend baa not been paid on Vi c t or i a f ol - the Prince of NY ales' Handicap. It was alleged that the dividend should have been £4 5s instead of ±4 Is as paid. After hearing all evidence, that of the complainants, of Mr Adams (who worked the machine), and of the club official in charge (Mr Clarke), and the tickets ami books examined, the Committee decided that there was nothing in the charge, and that the correct dividend had been paid.

The well-known steeplechaser, Hunts man, is to be sold to-morrow, at 12 o'clock, at Buckland's saleyards.

Colonel Fraser's famous sire, King Cole, is for sale, delivery to be taken after January Ist next. King Colu is best known as the sire of Nelson and Wapiti.

NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY.

(BY TELEGRAPH.—rRESS ASSOCIATION.)

DrxEPix, Wednesday. At the half yearly meeting of the National Insurance Company, held to-day, the fol lowing report was submit ted:—Tho directors submit their report and balance-sheet fo r

the fourteenth year of the Company's opera tions.. The net premium for the year amounts to £161,009 Is lCd. After making the usual provision for unearned premiums there is a surplus of £16,333 10s 2d. to which has to be added the balance from 1886, £4,326 9s 1id—£20,660 0s Id. Out of this the directors declared an interim dividend in March last, which absorbed £4,902 17s 6d. They now recommend the payment of a further dividend at the rate of 10 per cent, per annum for the half-year, £4,902 17s 6d, and to carry forward £10,854 5s 1d—£20,660 0s Id. The fullest pro vision has boen made for all known and unadjusted losses in the item of £23,158. The report and balance-sheet were adopted. Messrs Burt, Larnach. and Wilson were re elected directors. The proposal to open a share register in London provoked some little discussion, but the motion was even tually carried, and another meeting will be held to confirm it.

HORTICULTURAL SHOW.

The Spring Show of the Auckland Horti. culfciiral Society -will be open to-morrow (Friday) and Saturday next from one to ten p.m. The Committee of Management are doing their best to make it a great success. The exhibits will be of rare quality and pro fusion. A more suitable time could not be than the present fov the show, and the Auckland public will no doubt visit it in numbers.

AGRICULTURAL HALL.

The Mohawk Minstrels have had very good houses during the long season they hav e been here, but last night the attendance took the cake, as the hall was crowded to %s utmost capacity, and several had to bo refused at tho door. The two danxewwn of the company, Misses Bella Perman and Laura Roberts, were given a benefit, and an extra good programme was produced. "The Old Corporal," the farce that con cluded the first part, was greeted with shrieks of laughter, while several of the items included in the first part were given encores. Tho statue clog dance by Miss Bella, Percy and Willie Perman was welt received, but Johnnie Collina's song. "Come Back," fetched them best of all, and ho had to respond to an en core, giving "An Irishman's Toast,"' which brought oiit another encore, when he re peated his last song. The two Micks were ao-ain to the fore, and their Irishisms kept the audience in a roar the whole time. A very successful performance was brought to a close with the farce, " The Lunatic Asylum." There is to be a change of pro gramme on Saturday night, when " Fun on the Bristol" will be produced.

R.M. COURT.

Ufhis ©ay.

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

UNDEFENDED CASKS. JUDGMENT went by default in the following cases :-J. Stonehara v. W. G. Parker, claim £19 6s Id ; costs £2 12s. M. Roth v E. Good, claim £52; judgment for £1 10s ; cost £16 4s. A. Eady v. R. W. Parkinson, claim £9 18s ; costs £1 17s. G. W. Binney v. L. Reisteren, claim £18 2s sd; costs £1 6s. R. Hayman and Co. v. H. J. Honevlield, claim £9 7s 9d; costs 16s. McLeod Brothers v. J. Hay, claim £1 8s 6a : costs £1 7s 6d. R. Baxter v. Catherine Campbell, claim £2 ; costs £1 Is 6d. F Taylor v. R. Wood, claim 15s ; costs £1 Is 6d. E. G. l>. Green v. Higgens, claim £7 7s 6d ; costs £1 16s. J. Letham v G. Sampson, claim. £3 18s 5cJ ; cost ,£l Is 6d Peel and Thompson v. H. Kelly, claim £3 Us 6d; costs £1 Is 6d J. Booth v. Captain Oakes, claim £1 lbs; costs £1 Is 6d. C. F. Griffiths v. J. B. Lockhart, claim £1 Is ; costs 11s. DEFENDED CASES.

K. R. Andrews v. S. A. CiUPMAJr.— Summons to tenant holding over.—De fendant was ordered to give up possession on the 19th November.-Costs ±1 17s Id were allowed.—Air Brock appeared for the kLh* v. A. WKioirr.-Claim £10, for damages resulting from a col won.-: Sir Theo. Cooner appeared for the plaintiff and Mr J A Tole for the defendant.-Lvidence was given relative to the accident, ami also as to the extent of the damages resulting. A number of witnesses were examined on eifchei side. The evidence disclosed that The colision resulted in smashmg he cart and horses, also a verandah post and a Sea anh pole. The various witnesses gave very conflicting evidence. Witnesses for the defence were still being examined as we went to press. - ;

Liddv, the enterprising and indefatig able manager for >he Ma,eroms has taken a shop in the Victoria Arcade and fitted it up with a ilendkl collection of photographs and naint in-s of Sign or and Signora Majeroa. It numerous impersonation,. The place was for the forthcoming iween,

POLITICAL GOSSIP.

[v,Y TKLEORArir.— SPECIAL REPORTER.]

Wellington, this day. Auckland Petitions. Sir G. Grey presented two peubions yester_ day from Ann Robertson, petition praying for an inquiry into losses sustained through trials in the Courts of the colony, and two others from Auckland Rond Boards in favour of a trial of Vaile's railway system. North Island Railway. Government will be asked to-day if it is their intention to propose any alteration-in the route of the North Island Railway. Auckland Kailway Votes. I have ascertained from the Minister of Public Works that the only Auckland rail way votes in the Public Works Statement will be for the extension of the Helen,»vilie line northward, and for the Rotorua line. The amounts have not boen passed by the Cabinet, but they cannot be veiy large, seeing that there is only £480,000 available for such purposes, including the expendi ture necessary on oven lines. Reports on Auckland Petitions. The following petitions have been re ported on by the Petitions Committee, of which Mr Thompson is chairman :—Peti tion on behalf of several natives convicted of perjury at the Supreme Court, Auck land.—Referred to Government for con sideration.—'From Samuel Stephenson, of Avondalo praying to be heard before the Committee on the subject of a grievance in connection with the Licensing Act.—No re commendation to make. From the unem ployed of Auckland, asking that work be provided for thorn.—Referred to the favour able consideration of the Government. Show of Hands at Nominations. There is a feeling on the part of many members that the present system of taking a show of hands at nominations should be abolished. Mr Moss has taken up the matter, and will a-k Government today if they will take the first opportunity of amending the Act in this direction, the practice of taking a show of hands being in consistent with the ballot. liegallsiag Sweepstakes. Amongst, the petitions presented to the House yesterday afternoon was one from a number of residents of Christehuroh, pr.iy ing that Section? 17 and 18 of the Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1881, be amended by the addition of provisions legalising sweep stakes or "consultations' , on horse or other races, the person or persons so authorised to be duly licensed. Marino Xlovouno. Details have been furnished to the House of a sum of £16.500 appearing under the head of " Marine " in the ordinary revenue account attached to the Financial State ment. The items are : light dues, £12,000 ; fees under Shipping Seamen's Act, £2,400 ; pilotage, port charges, etc., £2,000 ; fees under Merchant Shipping Act, £100. liloutcnant-Coloncl McDonnell's Petition. The petition of Lieutenant-Colonel Mc- Donnell tor back pension in connection with the New Zealand Cross has again been under consideration of the Petitions Com mittee, which has decided that while the petitioner has some precedent for the basis of his petition, yet it is one the Committee cannot recognise, and therefore cannot re commend the House to grant the prayer of the petition. Crown and Native Lands Bating Act, The proposal to repeal the Crown and Native Landa Rating Act is not by any means popular wit'it outlying counties, which thus lose a considerable revenue which they derive from tho tax paid on Crown and native lands by Government from the consolidated fund. They are now agitating with tho object of having some provision made to recoup them the loss which they would thus sustain. A meeting of members interested in the matter was held yesterday, when those present were ; Messrs Samuels, Cadinan, Smith, Reeves, Moat, Hobbs, Marchant, Newman, Seddon, Griinmond, and Graham. After consider able discussion a resolution was carried that a deputation from those present wait on the Premier and urge him to make some special provision for district.? that would bo affected by the repeal of the Crown and Native Lands Rating Act. Tho Charge of Talebearing. The accusation of talebearing made by Mr Seddon against Mr Monk has given rise to a good' deal of talk respecting the occurrence referred to, and it is only fair to Mr Monk to give his explanation. He says it appeared to him that it was the intention on the part of tho protectionists to force the hand of tho Premier by representing that several Auckland members, of whom ho was one, would act in conjunction with them in compelling Government to under take a revision of the tariff this session. He objected to such an impression being given, and immediately the meeting concluded lie proceeded to the Premier's room with the intention of making his position and that of other Auckland Government supporters per fectly dear, and not to convey any informa tion of what had happened at the meeting. Tho Protectionists. The Protectionists intend to keep to gether, but it is unlikely that any political action will be taken this session as they do not wish to obstruct or harass the Government in any way in their retrenchment proposals. Mr Moss will this afternoon give notice to ask the Government whether they will appoint a Committee to revise the tariff. The Privilege Question. Sir Julius Vogel's speech last night was coldly received by the majority of the House, and the feeling in the galleries appeared to bo that it was not in good taste. His supporters, however, regard it as a clever speech, and say that he turned the tables completely on the Speaker. Sir Julius declares that if the opportunity is not given him to move his resolution reviewing the Speaker's ruling,.he will take action claiming: damages for illegal expulsion from the House. Works Statement. It is expected that the Works Statement will be made to-morrow week. miscellaneous Jottings?. Lady Yogel was present in the House througout the privilege debate. Petitions from all parts of the colony were presented yesterday in favour of State Aid to Catholics. Sir John Hall acted as mediator on be half of the Government with a view of get ting the ex-Treasurer to make some apology to the House. The Legislative Council adjourned yes terday in consequence of the death of the Hon. John Johnston. The Auckland unemployed petition lias been referred to the favourable considera tion of the Government.

Mr Seddon sought to withdraw his Hawkers and Pedlars Bill from the order paper for this evening, with the object of substituting a Chinese Influx Bill, but was not allowed"to do so. The Premier has given notice of a bill to amend the Municipal Corporations Act. Thames people are petitioning Govern ment to prevent sbarebrokers being direc tors of mining companies. No replies to questions were given yes terday, in consequence of the breach of privilege case. One of the legislators says that members of that body ace dying so rapidly that, he proposes to movo that the reform resolution be deferred till the list of members has been sufficiently reduced by natural decay. ' ■ Taiwhanga was so annoyed yesterday at members rising to points of. ordw that

he rose to "point of waste time " amidst roars of laughter.

Sir George Grey is reckoned by Minis terialists amongst the Opposition. The "Post ,: says that the Speaker on Tuesday seemed to interpose in dread of something that was coming rather than in reproof of what was actually said.

CHARGE OF ATTEMPTED MURDER.

A TAURANGA SENSATION.

At the R.M. Court, Tauranga, on the 4th instant, before Rev. C. Jordan and C. F. Hulme, J.P.s, the case was called of A. W. Bromfield v. A. Faulkner, information for alleged attempt to murde r C. Harloy. No appearance of informant. Mr Moss appeared for defendant, and asked that the case should be dis. missed. Mr Galbrait-h stated that although not instructed in the matter he should mention that Mr Bromfield was unable to attend, having to undergo an opera tion in Auckland.—Case dismissed. At a later stage of the Court proceedings, Mr Galbraith said there was another case, Harley v. Faulkner, for alleged attempted murder. He appeared for Mr Bromfield on behalf of the informant Harley, who had come all the way from Katikati with his wit nesses. After some explanation it turned out that the case Bromfield v. Faulkner, which had been dismissed, was the case referred to. Mr Galbraith thought Mr Moss had acted unfairly in not advising him of the matter. The Court then adjourned till noon to enable Mr Galbraith to produce his authority from Mr Bromfield. On the Court resuming, Mr Moss appeared for ac cused, but the Bench intimated that having dismissed the case they could not re-open it, and a fresh information would have to be laid.

TWO CARRIAGE ACCIDENTS.

SEVERAL PERSONS INJURED.

(BY TELEGRAPH —PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Dvn EDJN, Wednesday.

A HOUSE attached to a ph;eton, in which were Mrs John Roberts (Murray Roberts and Co.) and her two children and the driver, bolted this afternoon. All were thrown out, Mrs Roberts and children escaping with severe bruises. The driver a man named Moore, was rendered insen sible, and is still unconscious.

Ross, Wednesday.

A buggy accident occured here to-day on the road between Ross and Hokitika, near the Ross borough boundary. Two ladies, Mrs Duras and Miss Malfroy, were driving down the hill when they met a horseman. The horse they were driving backed down over the bank, and fell down the hill. The young lady jumped out uninjured, with the exception of a few bruises, but Mrs Duras was jammed against the wheel, and extricated with difficulty, being much in jured and shaken.

WAIKATO NOTES.

(by telegraph—owx correspondent.)

Hamilton, this day. Or tho 136 scholars presented at the Cam" bridge District High School 134 passed, every candidate for the fourth, fifth and sixth standards passing. This result i 9 highly creditable to the head teacher. The Examining Inspector was Mr O'Sullivan.

The Hon. Secretary of the Cambridge Lawn Tennis Club has forwarded a cheque for £3 3s to the Library, proceeds of the late lawn tennis tournament.

Next. Tuesday, the Hamilton Choral Society will repeat their concert at Cam bridge. A Native Land Court will be open at Cambridge to hear succession claims on Tuesday. An application by H. Huckufcai, O. Hnckntai, and others, for a subdivision of their interests in Pnako No. 2, in favour of Mr E. B. Walker (for Messrs Grice and Benn), will come on for hearing early next month.

Races are to be held at Otorohanga during the Christmas holidays. Over £20 was subscribed in the room at the last meeting of the Committee. As the natives are generally fond of sport, there is sure to be a large attendance. Mr E. L. Smith, of the Royal Hotel, Hamilton East, is spoken of as a likely candidate for the Mayoralty chair. Up to tho present, however, there is nothing de finite before the public.

The exhibition of the real saurian monster announced its appearance in Hamilton on Friday and Saturday, and, strange to say, the proprietors have engaged the same building as the " bogua monster" was shown mon Saturday last. Tho last show, they state, was a splendid advertisement for them.

There was an excellent muster of the members of the Hamilton Light Infantry Volunteers at full dress parade. At the conclusion of the drill, Messrs D. Nelson and F. Hammond were unanimously elected members. It was resolved that the drill should be ence instead of twice a week. Captain Reid is to be complimented upon the progress the Corps is making.

ACTIONS FOR DAMAGES.

BREACH OF PROMISE AND

SLANDER,

(by telegraph.— pkess association.)

Wellington", Wednesday. Ax interesting breach of promise case is on the tapis. The plaintiff is a well-known hostess of Wellington and Auckland, and claims £2,000 from the defendant, formerly a timber merchant of Wellington, as com. pensalion for her blighted affections. The defendant was also resident in Auckland for a time.

Ixvercabgilli, Wednesday.

Mr A. C Henderson, Clerk of the Supreme Court, and Registrar of Electors and Re turning Officer for Invercargill, has served a writ claiming £1,000 damages from Mr Joseph Hatch, lateM.H.R. for this district, and candidate at the late election, for slan der contained in remarks from the hustings at the declaration of the poll. The case will be taken at ''he Supreme Court in Decem ber, and it is said that Sir Robert Stout will appear for the defence.

DEATH OF HON. J. JOHNSTON M.L.C.

[BY TELEGKAPH.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Wellington, Wednesday.

Hon. John Johnston, M.L.C., died fchis afternoon, aged 76. He had been ailing some time, The Legislative Council to-day ft djourned iv consequence of Mr Johnston's deafcfe, - ■ -"■■' ■■'

COUNTY ELECTIONS.

Waitemata.

MoilE than ordinary interest was exhibited yesterday in the elections for the various ridings in the above county. Owing to the size of the district, all the returns are not yet to hand. TTalsiipwEia. At Takapuna the contest was very keen. There were two polling places —one at the Road Board Office, and the other at Mr Giles's house. The results are as follows :—Robert Mackay, 34 at No 1 booth and 18 at No 2 ; total, 52. Ewen W. Alison, 15 at No 1 booth and 34 at No 2 booth ; total, 49. Majority for Mr Mackay, 3. Mr Alison, the sitting member, therefore retires. Helensville. The election here resulted in favour of Mr Isaac McLeod, the sitting member, who polled 33 votes, and Captain James A. McMahon polled 24 votes, making a majority for Mr McLeod of 9. Waikomiti In this district Mr W. Cantwell,, the late member, declined to be again nominated. This brought two competi tors into the field Messrs William T. Bishop and Humphrey E. Sharpe. There were two polling booths, one at Titirangi and the other at Waikomiti Railway Station. At the former booth Mr Bishop polled 40, and 13 at Titirangi. Mr Sharpe polled 48 votes at Waikomiti and only 3at Titirangi. This gave Mr Bishop a majority of 2, and secured his return. A 'bus load of voters was taken out from town to W^aikomiti. Pinko. Messrs D. Murphy and J. Mills were de clared elected members for Tβ Aroha Riding of this county. The other candi dates were Messrs Geo. Hantner (defeated by 4 votes), A. A. Smith and D. J. Frazer. Birkenftead. Here there was another keen contest between Mr William Thompson and Mr Joseph IT. VVitherford. A pleasing feature was that strawberries and cream, coflee and sandwich were kindly dis pensed to all coiners during the day by Mesdames Hill, Stanley, and Miss Cook at Mount Zion School room. Mr Witheford brought over about 60 voters from Auckland, but the returns showed that Mr Thompson was _ the victor with a majority of 15. Mr Thompson polled 89 and Mr Witheford 74. Cheers were given for both candidates when the results were made known. Waitakerci. This riding fought a triangular duel yesterday. Messrs J. Smythe, J. O'Neill and H. Probert were the candidates. There were three polling booths at Henderson, Swanson, and Hobsonvillo. Complete returns are not yet to hand, as those from Hobsonville have to come down by water. It is stated, how ever, that at present the figures are ns follows: -J. O'Neill, 39; IL Probert, 25; J. Symthe, 14. There is therefore every probability that Mr 0 Neili is elected, as it is not likely that the Hobsonvillo returns are equal to re versing the position of the candidates' Mr Symthe was the late member, and Mr O'Neill, although he has never previously served in the Council, in an old and well known resident in tho Waitakerei district. A 'bus load of property owners drove out from town yesterday to record their votes.

Tho returns from the Wade and Kau kapakapa have not yet been received.

Thames.

(by telegravh—own correspondb>t.)

The county elections yesterday resulted as follows :—Kaueranga (two members) : Pitkethley, 178 ; Walton, 158 ; Greenville, 114. Parawai (one member) : Dunlop, 48 ; Carpenter, 40. Hastings (one member) : Steadman, 36; Deeble, 33. Totara (one member): Townsend, 42 ; Nicholls, 33 ; Stevens, 22. Waiotahi : BrodieandCoutts returned unopposed. Olimcnunri. Paeroa, this day. The annual county elections took place here yesterday, and resulted as follows :—

Paekpa RiDixn. —Three members, ten candidates. Messrs W. G. Nicholls, C. J. Dearie, and J. M. Robson were returned.

Kaiiaxgahake Riding.—Two members, six candidates. Messrs Edward Quinn and Carroll Nash were returned.

Waitekauri Riding.—Two members, four candidates. Messrs E. M. Corbett and J. H. Moore were returned.

GARRARD AND HIS PETS.

THE DOG-CATCHER-AT-LAW.

BETTER THAN AGITATING.

" Comb and see my dogs," said the dog catcher, Mr William George Garrard, to a Star reporter, and the representative o<. the fourth estate and the erstwhile unem. ployed agitator walked over to the kennels behind the City Market. William George had apparently made a big haul, for there was a tremendous yelping and barking going on, and a close inspection showed no less than 23 dogs imprisoned. "I've got some real good dogs in," said the keeper; " there's six fox terriers, real genuine 'uns," three retrievers, regular out and outers, one pointer,and two poodles, one spaniel, and the rest you can call 'em mongrels." " Business appears to be brisk," observed the reporter. " Yes; there's still a great many dogs about," replied William. "I've got them weeded out in the town, but there's plenty in the suburbs."

"What is the extent of your dog district, Mr Garrard?"

"Well, I goes to Newton, and as far as the commencement of Mouiit Eden, to Stanley street in Parnell, and to Cox's Creek, at Fonsonby." " How long have you been at this busi ness ?" "Oh! about four months. I don't know how many dogs I have run in, but there was a lot. I shou'd say 130 have been drowned, about the same number sold, and there's been about 50 or 60 released by their owners." "What does it cost to release a dog ?" " Well, the office charges so much a day, seeing as how long they's been in the ken nels, and the collars is 5s since the be ginnin' of the year." " Yon get paid at the rate of so much per dog, I believe, Mr Garrard ?" " Oh, no, they asked me what I would do it for that way, but I didn't like it. At first I got 4s a day, and now I get 5s ; they give me a shillin' extra afterwards.' " That's better than being an unemployed agitator, is it not ?" " Yos," said William. "Someofthemenare at me frequently yet, and I know some hard cases, but* I done my duty by 'em, and now they must look for somebody else to speak, for 'em."

" There are still a large number of unem-, ployed, are there not?" " Yes ; worse than when the Thames fixst broke out. I have seen it all, and it's come just as I told 'em. Them wats got ca,pital doesn't see their way to invest it and get any interest, and there's some men who will cast their vote away for a long boer rather than put the right man into ofliee to do others justice. I've been here seen it all along," .;'-.:,'. ■■„„■>

" Well, let's return to the dogs. How do you catch them ?" " You tee if it's a little fellow I picks him up and takes him under my arm. If he's a big un I just grab hold of him by the back of the neck, and slip the ropo over his head." " Do you often have any trouble with the owners ?"

" Often. But when I get the rope round the dog's neck they can pull away as hard as they like. As I told one party, she was only trying to pull her own dog's head off, and it was no good to her."

*' What is the story about the lawyer's dog ?"

" I collared a fine dog belonging to a gent as was going away to Sydney. Says he, ' Garrard, that's my dog. . Says I, ' Sir, I know it is, and I'm going to lock him up.' Says he, ' Garrard, do you know who lam 1 I'm a barrister at law, and I'm going to Syd ney by the steamer to night.' ' Well,' says I, ' if you're n barristei-at-law, I'm the dog catcher-at-law, and I don't care if you're going to England.' And his dog was locked up, and it fetched 235."

William George was evidently very proud of this incident, and rubbed his hands in high glee at the recollection of his little joke. Having seen the dogs, which in cluded some very fine animals, our reporter wished the keeper "good-day," and con tinued his tour of investigation in another direction.

LATE CABLES.

DARING ESCAPE FROM GAOL.

THE GUARD SEIZED AND

LOOKED UP.

(JIEUTEB.)

Perth (Western Australia), Novmeberl7.

A daring escape from Fremautle Goal has been made by three prisoners. The names of the men are AVilliam Thompson, a notorious bushranger, Thomas Hughes and Jarvis. The two latter attacked and disarmed the guard compelling him to give them a number of cartrdges iand the keys in his possession. They then,proceeded to lock tho guard in a closet, and finally made their escape. The

police are out in pursuit.

THE DONCASTER RAILWAY ACCIDENT.

TRIAL OE DRIVER AND STOKER.

(special. )

Londox, November 16. The driver and firemen of the train which Jwas the cause of the railway disaster at Hexthorpe, near Doncaster, were placed on trial, but have been acquitted of the charge preferred against them.

THE FRENCH SCANDAL.

MOKE CORRUPT PRACTICES

ALLEGED

(SVECIAL TO ASSOCIATBOX)

Loddox, Noi.'ember 16. The Baroness Seillie"re declares that her husband gave Mr Daniel Wilson two millions of francs to obtain army contracts for him. The Paris Pres s continue to make violent attacks upon Wilson and President Grevy.

THE POPE OF IRELAND.

(special)

Loxnox, November 16. It is stated by the "Times" that Monsignor Persico's report on the Irish difficulty has been laid before the Vatican. The Pope is saicl.to be dis pleased at the attitude of the Irish clergy and has resolved tog admonish them.

THE DOOMED PRINCE.

A TEMPORARY RELIEF.

(special.)

London, November 16. The breaking of a tumour in the throat of the Crown Prince of Germany has somewhat relieved him. Dr. Bramann is in constant attendance upon the Prince in order to be ready to perform the operation of tracheotomy if there should be any symptoms of suffocation'

PANAMA CANAL LOAN.

London, November 16.

[SPECIAL.]

Baron de Lesseps is raising a heavy loan, -which it is expected will suffice to partially complete the Panama Canal. He has also appealed to the French Premier for permission to issue lottery bonds in|connection with the Canal.

ANTARCTIC EXPLORATION.

[SPECIAL.]

London, November 16. The Eoyal Geographical Society are supporting the proposal that the British Government should make grant towards the fund for 'Sic exploration.

AUSTRALIAN NAVAL DEFENCE.

London", November 16. H.M.S. Calliope is to be attached *o th e squadron in the Australian Station.

THE GOVERNMENT OF FIJI.

The "Morning Post" advocates the* Government of Fiji being , assumed by Vie torla, the other colonies,, assisting fray the cost.

SENTENCE OF A DEFAULTER.

Neal, the Coventry solicitor who Was ar rested afc Melbourne, has been found guilty of the charge of misappropriating moneys and sentenced twelve years' penal servi tude.

THE STEAMSHIP TAINUI.

HoBAKT Town, November' 17; The Steamship Tainui sailed for Netf Zealand at 8 last evening.

TELEGRAMS.

Huxtly, this day.

A French 'gentleman of repute, who wag, travelling through here to-day, requested, the railway officials to point out the locality: of the coal mines and other objects of inter-: est. A difficulty arose, however, as the! Frenchman could not speak English nor* the guards French. The officials say that) j they will have to go in for foreign lan-- ■ guages.

DEATH OF SIR WILLIAM MCARTHUR.

A cablegram was received to-day of Me-; Arthur and Co., annonncing the death of! Sir William Me Arthur M.P., head of the; well-know London and Colonial firm. Th© deceased gentleman was a native of Ireland and bad been a member of the Hotise; of Commons for many years, and he was' only recently re-elected as a representative ■ of a Cornish' constituency. He was nofe known as a brilliant debater, but was an an able, hardworking, and conscientious' member. He was a leading layman of the! Wesleyan connection and contributed during his life nearly £100,000 to objects connected, with the futherance of the interests of thnb' Church. He was the promoter of the Bel-1 fast Methodist College and in company j with the Rev. W. Arthur travelled to' America to raise the necessary funds for its establishment. He took a leading part; in the introduction of lay representation into' the British Wesleyan Conference. He was also one of those who instituted which is nob known'as'the Metropolitan Church Building' Fundvvhich had been the means of erecting a number of Wesleyan Churches in various j parts of London. He visited Auckland | about seven years ago and always took a i keen interest in colonial affairs. The de-!

ceased gentleman was 73 years of age.

GENERAL BOULANGER.

How He Attained Power in Military ; Circles of France.

The son of a notary of the town of Rennes,! it is not the accident of birth that has ad vanced General Boulanger to the highest attainable grade of tne French army. Hβ has but to thank his Breton perseverance, his indomitable strength of will, his extra-' ordinaiy audacity; in a word his own power and ability to recognise, seize, and make the most of the various opportunities that have come in his way. Though .by birth a Frenchman, and the son of a French man, he can still claim some kinship with, England, his mother being an English woman, of whoso comely features her son is. said to inherit no small share. Things did not prosper with the Rennes solicitor, and shortly after the birth of his son, which took place on the 29th of April, 2837, he sold his practice and removed to Nantes, where he obtained employ-. ment as an inspector of the insurance company La 'Bretagne. It will be under stood, then, that the subject of this sketch was not brought up in enervating luxury. Indeed, as tho Breton phrase goes, " There was more bread than butter in that family." The early school days of the young Boulanger were passed on British; soil, at Brighton, where he was placed under the care of his maternal uncle?. It is open to doubt whether the reminiscences of a few years spent in England are of the brightest description, for the young French man was treated in no tender manner by his British schoolfellows, to whom his nationality appeared to offer every excuse for various descriptions of bullying. His appeals and complaints to hie relatives passed unheeded, for they had apparently resolved that even at that early date he should learn to fight his own battles. It was doubtless a hard lesson for the young French boy, in a foreign land, away from parents and home, but it was one which has borne good fruit in his after life. On January 15 1855, in his eighteenth year, George Ernest Jean Maria Boulagner was entered at the famous military college of St. Cyr, and it was here that his pre dominant qualities first manifested them selves. Though a persevering and attentive student, he was not negligent in other matters, and as the child is said to be father of the man, so was Georges Boulanger's youth prophetic of his maturer years. A story is told, on his own authority which indicates the bent of his character better than whole pages of psychlogical argument, to the effect that on"liberty clays " [lee jours de scrtie) he would content himself for breakfast with a dish of potatoes, bought at some street stall or unpretensious shop, in order to treat himself to a pair of light yellow kid gloves with the balance of his dinner allowance.. But General Bou langer is probably not the only eminent man to whose account a similar- charge might be laid.

The demand for the grea.t American remedy, Hop Bitters, in this part of the -world has become so great that the Hop Bitters Com nany whose headquarters are at Rochester. New York, U. 5.&., have been compelled to open a laboratory in Melbourne. It is in charge of Mr M. H. Van Bergh, a gentleman of several years' experience with this Company and the trade may be assured of receiving goods ecmal to the parent house, and the most courteous treatment. The Fop Bittera Com pany have estab'iishmen 8 at London, Paris Antwerp, Belgium, Brcua, Holland, and Toronto, and their American Bitters are pro bably the best known medicine in the -world.

COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &c, To-nigiit. Agricultural Hall—MohaykMinstrel. 8. Brill-shed—A Battery N.Z. Regiment Artillery, YMCA Rooms— Evangelistic Service, 7.30 Auckland Tabernacle—Service, 7.30 Council Room, Coburg-street—Meeting of Pro perty Owners in Upper Queen And adjacent streets 8 Bricklayers' Aims Hotel—Waitemata Boating Club, 7.30 Rota of Justices at Police Court November 18—Messrs J. F. Buddie and F. Gh Clayton. Auction Sales To-morrow. - Arthur and Buddie—Weekly Poultry and Pro» duce Sale, 11 Hunter and Nolan, Durham Yards—Property, Horses, etc., 11 \V. J. Dowden-Weefcly Poultry and Produce Sale, 11 „ „ S. Cochrane and Son—Household Furniture, etc 11 Paget and Ralstoa — Poultry, Produoe, Furai* ture, 10.30 '_: m E. Itoydon—PouKry, Produoe, etc., 11 J. Leydon—Poultry, Produce, Furniture, etc, 11 A. Aitkon—Poetry,.Produce, eta, 12 T. M. Jacksony-Furniture, Produce, etc,, 11 B. Tonks and Co. — Buggy Harness, \\\ Carriages,?uggie3, Settlera 12; Takapina Jockey Club's Privileaea.l2, . T) F. Evans—Furniture, etc., 12, v' j" Jones-Drapery. Boots, Shoes, eto., 1% - Vaile .HP d Oouglae-Property, 2.

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17. 188*,

5