COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, etc., To-nlgr... Abtiott'.. Op?ra House-Williamson, Garner, end Musgrovo's Company in "Jim, the Penman, 8. KiliKiou3 Meeting in the Tent on Surrey Hilla Kstato. Ponsonby Road, 7 30. V.M.C.A. Hcoms-Auokland Junior Football

Association, 7.30. All Saints' -cho.'.ro.m-All Saiotß' Athletic Club S. Pjnsor.bf Club Hotel -Pon3onby Naval Artil lery, 731. Y.M.O.A. Ro3ti:s-Evan?elißtlc Service, 7 30. Auckland T.birnacle-Pastor T. Spurgeon will

preach. 7 30. Bere-ford-str.et Hall. Bcrosford-.troet—Mutual Improvement Society, 7.30.

Rota of Justices at tho Police Court. April 1-F. Battley and A. Boardman.

Auction Sales Tomorrow. W. Garrett-Offlcrs Furritura and Fittings and

sundries. 11. A. Buckland, VVaiuku-Cattle, Household Far-

nitur., etc., 12. Arthur and Buddie—Weekly Poultry and Pro-

due. Sale, 11. Hunter & Nolan, Durham Yards—Horses, etc,

12. W. J. I)_ wdan-We.kly Produce -ale. 11. K. Leydo-—Pro_u.ie, Furniture, ote„ 11. S. Cochrane and S.n — Household Furniture,

etc., 11. R. J. Carbines -P.oduce. Furniture, etc. 11. Hesketh and Aitken- Poultry. Produce, etc. 11. B. Torks _- Co.—F-u't and Merchandija, 11; fcboor.er Jlarlnr-r. Wines, Spirits, Ales, and Auckland Ka.ins Club's Kaster Meeting's P.-ivil.g-s, 12.

Chief Post office, Auckland.

Mal-S Will CI.OSIt A3 UNDER !— This D_v Fo Friendly Isl-nds. per Mailo, at _ p m. For O.otiki. per Douglas, at 1 p.m. For rnainea, par Kotomahana, at 1.30 p.m. FHrDA-. April 1. For Cowe. and Coromandel, per Coromandel, at 11.30 a.m. For W<_oi?a-u!, and .ou'.h.ra Ports, per Oroti, at i P.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 4 p.m. For Whi.lan.ra, Gum Town, Upper Mill, and Tairna, per lona. at 5 p m. For Tauranga and Opoliki, por Clansman, at 5 p m. Sot W_an_rarel Headß. Parua, Waipu. Whan- Karoi, Kamo, and Mangapai, per Wellington, at 5 p.m.

Saturday. April 2.

For Katikati, Aongatete, Taurangn. and Opotlki, via Thames, per Rotomahana. at 6 30 a.m. 'for Thames, per Rotomahana, at 7 a w. For Westport. ptr Maitai. at 11 a.m. For Russell, Kawakawa, Fiji, etc., per Arawata, at 5 p.m.

Monday. April!,

For Rusieil, Kawakawa, Friendly Islands. Samoa, Tahisi, and Raratongs, per Janet Nicoll, at i p.m.

Tuesdat, April 5.

For United Kingdom. «*tc . via Rio do Janiero and Pljmouth (per Kaikoura, from Welling ton en April 7) per Penguin at 12.30 p.m. For monoy orders, registered letters and news papers at 11.30 am. Late letters at 1 p.m. 'I his Mail will be duo at Plymouth on 19th May. For Australian Colonies, per Zaalandia, lm-

mediately after arrival from Honolulu. For Taranakl and Sonthern ports, per Penguin, im nedlatiy after arrival of Zaalandia. (Signed) S. B. BISS, Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-office. Ao-tkland,

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

Sunset.—Thlaovenlng, 5.52. BONTiiSE,—To-morrow morning, 618.

HIGH W_T_R. A-Okland — This evening, 1112; to-morrow morning, 11.18. Manuk_u Heads—to-morrow morning, 1.52; to-morrow afternoon, 2.28. Kaipara Heads—To-morrow morning, 2.52; to morrow aft.moon, 3 23.

ARRIVALS.

TO-DAY. Janet Nicoll. sn, from South Sea Island 3 I.na, s s„ Amodeo, from Mercury Bay

DEPARTURES.

TODAY. Mararoa, s.s . Edie. for the South Argyle, s.s., Amodeo, for Barrier

STEAMERS TO ARRIVE.

Coromandel, from Coromandel. to-day, 5 p.m. Hotomahana, from Thames, Friday, 3 p.m. lona, from Barrier, to night Clansman, from Russell, Friday, early Zaalandia, from San Francisco, due Saturday Arawa, from flymouth, April 10 Maital. from Westporr, Friday P.in-uin (at Onehunga), from South, Saturday "Wellington, from Whangaroi, to-night Waltaki, from Glab.rne. Monday Herald, from Groymouth, early

IMPORTS.

Per Janet Nicoll—loo O.XI orarges. 8,110 c-.coa nnt. and 16 bags -ocoanuti. 12n bunches bantnas. Per Mararoa-IDOAs J.I. _oo_d.s'.-G_o. Yob. Jakins.

Inwards Coastwise.— Norah and Rob Roy, from Kennedy Biy; Stsg, from Thames; Lagoon, from Port Ch:irlo.; Woipu, from Tairas.

Outwards Coastwise —Walpu. for Tairoa Lagoon, for Port Claries; Norah. for Waiara.

The schooner Atkntio was to have left Raro tonga for Auckland on Saturday last.

The b.i,antine Ada C. Owen arrived at Rara tonga from Auckland on the 2!rd ins>r.t. and wa-i to have left on her return trip yesterday.

The brlgantine Deflince is discharging coal Into the s.s. Janet Nicoll, at tho Railway wharf.

The s.s. lona arrived form Tauran;a and Meronry Bay early this morning, and left for Great Barrier a; 8 a.m.

the Fcho.ner Mailecleared at the Customs this afternoon for Tonga with cargo and pas sengers.

Inte-.dine passemoraby th. R M.3. Kaikoura aro reminded that they will hive to le.ve Ono hung* for the Sou h, to join the steamer, on- Ttesday next,

The s.s. Chelmsford arrived from Opottki, Wh-kotace. and Tanr.-ngs at 10 a.m. to-day, with 131 sacks maize. 5G sheep, 10 cases fruit, 5 horses, and 5.0 feet timber. Passengers:—From Opotikl: Mess:s Dugleaux, Warrington, and Bridge. From VVhskatane: Messrs Carter and Callings. From Tauranga: Mrßedfern.

THE JANET NICOLL.

Tin s s. Ja.et Nicoll left Auckland on Febru ary 22nd, at 4 o'clock p m . for her us.al trip to the South Se_ Inlands. Arrived at Tonga at 9.30 a.m, on the 28ch, after a moderate weather passage, and left next afternoon at 2 p m. for -Samoa. Arrived at Samoa at 7 a in. on the 4th Marsh, and left next day at 3 p.m. for Tahiti Arrived at Tahiti at 7 _.m. on the I-th, being 18 days from Auckl.nd, making the best time for the Janet since running in this trade. Beautiful weather all the way. Left Papeete for Paeu at 11.3. a.m. on the l.th Inst,, arriving the same day at 4 p.m. Got on board part cargo of oranges and coc.annts, and left for Vairao 4.30 p.m. on the 17th. Took in balance of cargo, and left for R.ratonga 10 a.m. on the 20th. Arrived at Raratonga 8,30 a.m. on 23rd, and left came d.y for Auckland at 12 p.m , arriving in Auckland March 31st. after a very fine weather pas inge, no bad weather being ex perienced the whole voyage. Passengers— Mots s T. C Johnson (of the Arm of Mrs-rs Cr-wford and Co., San Francisco, who was a passenger upon the s s Baiatea, lately burnt at Bea) C. A. Bdiobo'ough. O. L.tcbmore, C. L. Stringer, and one Kanaka.

THE MARAROA.

The as. Mararo- left for Melbourno via southern porta at neon to day, with the fo'low- Ing passengers:—For Gi-b.rne: Miss Doran. Mr liaore. For Napier: Misses Dftano, Brassey and Noalo, Mrs Fenwicke Mrs Neale, Messrs Hampshire, K. Wilson, Whitcombe. W. D. Borne. F. r Wellington Mesdames Arms-tens:, Phillips, Robinson. Fast-am, Messrs E. Pearce, J. Wal'ors, T. McL.ughlln, J. C. Grlerson, Easth.m, A. Spencer. For Lyttelton: Mes dames Burgees Sohorff, Cooney, Glinain ninrf. and Brown. Misses Boole, Bruce, andSwlnnerlon, Mo.srs J. If. Hall, J. B. Syd ney, J. T. Blown, F Batoo, Master Glenden ninsr. For Dane din: Mis.es Milne, Morton, Atkinson, Mr r>nd Mrs Allen a.d 3 children, Messrs Newcombo, Bendall, Ward. Hardtmuth, Morton. For Melbourne: Mas Williams. Steerage for various norts: H. Walke". Mr and Mrs Karit'a.a und 2 children. Mrs Chatileld, Merl Takoreri and child, Mi_3 Derbyshire, Geo. Webster, Mis. Pnpi.oh. Henii. To Pora. JVlra Banderson and 3 children M/s Buph, Mrs Karglo i-.nrt 2 children, U. C H.atn, Te Wheoro and eh.M, A. T.nacv.

PORT OF ONEHUNGA.

ARRIVAL. Macgreger, b.s., Daniel, from Now Plymouth DEPARTURES. Oreti. 8.8., Robertson, for HokianßU Macgregor, s b., Daniel, for New Plymouth

Tho fl.B. Oroti, for Hokiango, took her depar ture last night, fairly patronised with cargo and pas.e~g.rß.

The Northern Company s s.s. Macgregor ar rivod from New Plymouth this morning, with 113 sacks seed, 211 sh3ep,'Bl.pi.oes meat, 47 pkgs. and the following pi.Benger.:—M'ss Monte floro, Meßdames Nathan, Staadroan, Salter, IWfcOtt, Key. Baiter, Mes-rs .Murray, Mathle- B.n, Milne. Halgett. Wylor, Sharplea. Stead man and B-lllntyre. She left again for New Plymouth at 1 o'clock, with car__j and passen gers.

TELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

Port. CiiALMßns. this day. — Salbd : Tara wera, for Sydney, via Northern ports. Passen gers for Auokland: Mes"-r_ Walker, Hhlod, Walsh. For Sydney: Mrs Backhouse and f imlly. Messrs Backhouss (2). and Williams.

rusEDiN, Wednesday.—These. Te Avaa in g.lnjr down Victoria C_ia_n»l got out of It. and took the b.nk swinging round right across the channel, and prve-tlng the Hlnemoa. which was behind fcer. getting past The Te Anau will easily get off as soon a. the tide makes. Mei-bourn-. March 30. — Sailed : Rotoma hana, for the Bluff. " Oamaeu. this day.-Sailed: Loiie, ech, with produce, tor Auckland.

COMMERCIAL.

KvKKij,. staii Office, tills day. 'l'H_A.Cil__AK_i -HOC-1-)'ABSOCIATIOMqUOteg tho wholesale price of fxe-ti butter at 104 per lb, And t_e«n eggs at Isgdpor do-on deliver*-, for the w_ek ea_u_« April Bth. 'the abeve wota- Uo_- rate to prime quality only. i

Land Nationalisation in New Zealand.

This colony promises to take the lead in legislation having for its object tho resump tion of lands by tho Crown. Two years ago Sir George Grey initiated the movement by formulating a scheme for the resumption of Stato ownership or largo blocks of land, and his proposals have been taken up and elaborated into a Bill which the Hon. John Ballance intends to introduco in the coming session of Parliament. This measure will, we presume, beaGovernmont one, and will have the sympathy and support of the Premier who is an ardent believer in tho doctrine of State ownership of tho soil; but whether or not, its introduction by a member of tho Cabi net will bo an occurrence of great impor tance to the colony and of interest to the world at largo. Our Wellington correspon dent has telegraphed a full synopsis of the Acquisition Bill, which seems to be the

" short title " of the measure, and wo com mend it to tho careful perusal of our readers. It is reassuring to note that no violent or wholesale expropriation is intentled. Owners of property havo thoir interests fully pro tected ; tho land to bo taken must either be wholly unimproved, or be over 1000 acres in extent; full value is to be paid for it; and tho amount to be expended annually in purchasing such land is not to exceed £50,000. On the other hand there aro safeguards against the Act being made an instrument of corruption in the hands of tho Government, as no lands can be appropria ted unless an association of twenty or more persons desiro to obtain possession of tho land for bonajtdt occupation, and guarantee a yearly rent of 5 per cent, on the purchase price. As an experiment in Land Nationali sation the measure will bo disappointing to the extreme followers of Henry George; but it seems to us to go quite as far as common prudence would allow in dealing with such a weighty question. One effect of the Bill (and it may not be altogether an unintentional one) will bo to increase the returns Property Assessment Act, as power is given to take lands at 10 per cent, advance on tho value at which they are returned for Property Tax purposes. If the measure has a fault, it is that its pro visions are not sufficiently obligatory, and the permissive naturo of some of them might open a wido door to corrupt preference or exception. If " licked into shape " in Committee, tho Bill might prove very acceptable as a practical means of breaking up the land monopoly. It may bo true, as is frequently asserted, that most of our big landowners would gladly part with their possessions at the valuation placed upon them ; at any rate the passing of this bill would serve a useful end by testing their sincerity.

During tho quarter ended to-day, tho vessels entered inwards at this port, ex clusive of coasters, were 61 in number, representing a total carrying capacity of 50,121 tons, and crews numbering 2.258 mon. This is an advance of 6,448 'tons on the record for the corresponding period of 1886. During the quarter just

ended, the passenger returns inwards were

1,030 male an J 393 female adults, 110 male and 113 female children. The outward io turns were not completed in time for pub lication in this issue.

Tho following programme will be per formed in the Albert Park to morrow by the French band from the warship Du quesne :—" Mireille Ouverture" (Gounod); " La Fillo dv Tambour Major," fantaisio (Lewip); " D.pecbe Telegraphique," VaL>e (Stroll); " Marche Indienne " (Sellcnick); "Crispino et Ia Comare," fantaiaie (Rieci) ; " Lea Cloches de Corneville," quadrille (Planquette); airs, " Rabitieus" (Deshayes); " La Marseillaise" ; "God Save the Queen."

We understand that Admiral do Saint Hilaire has received his expected telegraphic despatches from France, and that in confor mity with the directions contained in them, the Duquesne weighs anchor on Saturday and makes the best of her way straight back to Tahiti. On dit that the whole ship's com pany of theDuquesnefromthecook's boy right up to the Admiral himeelf fully expected on reaching Auckland to roceive tidings that war had boen definitely proclaimed between France and Germany, and that they were greatly disappointed to find that the inevitable outbreak had boon again staved off. Sinco leaving France the Bismarck is tho largest German man-o' war they have seen, and they wero ardently desiring the opportunity of having a "brush" with her, fully confident of tho Duquesno's ability to wipo hor out of existence in the compass of on hour. By-the-way, wo aro credibly informed that Commandant Fournier is tho officer who drew up and signed the Tonquin treaty of peaca on behalf of the Fronch Go vernment, and that he ia the gentleman who fought a duel with the celobratod Henrißoche.ort(editorof"L\_ntran.igeant") in consequence of this writer's aspersions upon the foreos engaged at Tonquin. At the cioso of the duel M. Roohefort shook hands with M. Fournier, and assured him that in anything ho had said ho had in no wise intended to reflect upon him person ally.

In tho list of those who had passed tho Civil Service examinations of October last the name of C. A Semadeni, of tho Auck land College and Grammar School, did not appear, his papers having been re served for further conFideration. In formation has vow been received that he has passed both examinations with marks which place him at, the head of the list in the senior examination, and between the fourth and fifth .f the successful candi dates in the junior examination. The Auck land College and Grammar School, there fore, claims the Ist, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 7th, Bth, 10th, 12th, and 14th out of the seventeen candidates who passed the senior examina tion.

A seaman named Williamson met with a painful accent, on the st.amer Moraroa

about 5 o'clock last evening. He was assi.ting to ship ono of tho fpre'-ar il afer of the lowor ha),-!., wb-ii liio iom i.i.ii attcc ')i tho upp'-r hatch fell und struck him on the head. The result was a severo fcnlp wound, which was dressed by Dr. I_.ir.ut, after which Williamson was removed to tho Hospital,

It is the intention of tho City Guards to fire on Saturday next for the medals pre sented by Major Isaacs and Mr E. Isaacs.

Messrs B. Dawson and W. Macindoo have received bronze medals and diplomas from tho ADglo-Indian Exhibition for fruits exhibited by them.

. he eteamer Janet Nicoll, which arrived from South Sea Islands to day, brought a 'arge quantity of fruitin good condition, and during tho dny discharged at the Railway Whatf

Mr Prince, electrical engineer, attended a meoting of tho Streets and Lighting Com mittee held at the City Council last evon ing to consider the proposal made to light the city by electricity. Mr Prince ex plained his plan at some length, and tho CommUteo will report to the Council at its next meeting.

It was Wm. Courtney's little wooden shop, and not that of Alfred Joe, that was destroyed by fire on the Queen-street Wharf on Sunday night. Mr Courtney believes that the place was maliciously set on tiro, and the result has been the loss of his little all, he having no insurance on his modest Etall and stock,

Mr John Batger, after a year's trip to the old country, returned to Auckland on Mon day la6t via Australia and the South, looking all the bettor for his holiday, to which 35 years' of acive life in the colonies had given him tho best of titles. He has evidently enjoyed his trip thoroughly and benefited by it largoly. He is losing no time, at any rate, in resuming the harness of active busi ness, for on Monday next he will resume his position as Manager of the Permanent Building and Investment Society.

Wo loam by arrival of the Janot Nicoll that Banks, tho defaulter, who is " wanted " at San Francisco, has changed his quarters from Raratonga to Atiu, and placed himself under the protection of the King there.

Mossrs E. Mahoney and Sons hove re ceived instructions from Wellington by wiro to return deposits to All tenderers for Auckland Custom-house building, except ing the lowest two, tho names of whom aro not yet nmdo public.

The monthly entertainmont of the Pitt and Vincent streets Band of Hope was held last Monday evening beforo a good audience, Mr J, Bouskill acting aa Chairman. Songs weie , rendered by Misses J. Bain, P, Wbeclor, Bouskills and A. Tutiehopc; recitations by Albert and Gorty Willows, Mies Webley, A. Wheeler and Hector Clark ; piano solo by Miss Chamberlain, violin bolo by MrCalnan, and an address by Mr Ambury,Band of Hope Union representa tive.

At the ParnoU Congregational Church mooting on Tuesduy, it was resolved to en gage Rev. R. Lai.hley as preacher for thorn at ovory alternate Sunday scrvi-o, morniDg once and evening next. About 110 cntrios have boen recoivod for tho Auckland S. ciety of Arts competition. The list of entries is now closed, It is thought that tho entries now on thoir M*ay from tho South will swoll the list up to 150, and as .omo entries cover two worns, the total number of competitive oxhibits should reach about 170, which will bo nearly doublo tho number of the previous year. Theso results nro vory gratifying to tho Committee, who have worked hard to ensure Hticcees. It should also be plea-ing to the lovers of art in this city. The Society consider that tho municipal authorities have acted very liberally in granting thorn the use of tho Art Gallery for £10 per week, in cluding gas and the use of a largo room,for weeks past. It is stated that the fee will do little beyond paying for the gas con sumed. At the Police Court to-day (before Messrs R. C. Burstowand J. Babor, Justices), Annie Forrest pleaded guilty to having been drunk, and also to using obscene lan guage in n public place. Prisoner was fined os and costs for being drunk, and sentenced to one month's hard labour for tho other offence. Edward Dougherty was charged with stealing two watches, the property of John Grapcl. Tho evidence showed that prisoner had got the watches to sell, and foolishly declinod to give them back to Grapel whon naked for them. Tho magistrates dismieeed tho charge Mr C. T. Wren, nurseryman, has received a lottor from tho Secretary to tho Treasury, informing him that ho will obtain on appli cation to tho Collector of Customs a com memorative medal and diploma for the ex hibit fcnt by him to the Indian and Colo nial Exhibition. Mr Wren's exhibit con sisted of an export case of New Zealand plants and trees, tho exhibits reaching London in oxcellont condition. Messrs Garlick and Cranwell and Mr William Norrie have recoivod mednls and diplomas for tho beautiful cabinet work shown by them at tho Exhibition. A Wellington telegram states that the following tendors havo been received for tho Kaipara contract, Koipara Waikuto Rail way : - Acc.pted, 11. Fulton, Kaukap.kapa, £G,573 ; declined, M. Walsh, Auckland, £_,9SS ; Molvehill and Co., Auckland, £7,059 ; Mcintosh and Culpan, Auckland, £7,.'i91 ; Couleon and Co., Auckland, Jt'7,417 ; J. McLcod, Helonsvillo, £~-!-.; Sheldon, Hoaton and Co., Auckland, £5470 ; Lovett and White, Auckland, £5,490 ; Larkins and O'lirion, Auckland, £8,752 ; VV. Foughy, Auckland, £S SOS ; Moßao and Honry, Auckland, 10,_uS ; J. Becroft, Auckland, £9,282; J. Leyuon, Auckland, £9,542. Tho Accident Insurance business is .aid to bo ovordono in Now Zealand, rind tho Dunedin Accident Ineuranco Association is thinking of giving up business. The ex penses of managing tho Company have boen protty high. Tho Chairman, in reply to questions put at tho annual mooting yes torday, said tho sum of £341 is (id was paid hist year to the directors as foes, including £50 for the Chairman. £40 was paid to tho directors as travelling expenses. The manager's salary at first stood at £200 per annum. It was raised to £400, and then re duced to £300, with a commission of 2_; per cent, on tho premiums received. One reason for winding up was said to bo the avoid ing of furthor liabilities, and tho possible naturo of these is indicated by tho fact that present liabilities include three claims amounting to £7,300, which aro being prosecuted in tho law courts. A meoting is to be held on tho 14th April next, to con sider the advisability of winding up the Company.

Tho children's toa and soiree in connec tion with tho Ponsonby Baptist Sunday school was hold last night. It was a great success. About 200 children sot down to tea, alter which they adjourned to the church, where a good programme was gone through, and was thoroughly appreciated, an interesting feature being tho presenting of prizes for attendance during the your. The music.l part of tho programme was tendered by tho Misses YVithoford, and recitations wero successfully givon by Messrs Ayrsou, Watkin, and S. G. I.oun tree.

Sir Charles Young's celebrated comedy drama, "Jim, the Penman," was repeated last evening at the Opera House, There was a large audience prosent, whoso frequent applause, as the plot was un folded, testified their thorough appreciation of the delineative powers of tho actors, At the close of the third act, tho leading char acters were all callod beforo the curtain and loudly cheered. Throughout, those prraent evinced tho keenest interost in tho discovery of the plot, and as tho audience dispersed highly complimentary remarks wore frequently expressed. "Jiui,tho Pen man," nil! be again repeated this evening.

By pormisfion of Admiral do St. Hilairo, tho very efficient band of tho Duquesno, under Bandmaster Deshazcs, gave a public performance yesterday afternoon in tho Albert Park. There was a very largo attendance of tho public, and the musical treat so kindly furnished was highly enjoyed. The following programme was gone through in first-class style : —" Lurlino " (Pas Redouble Anglais), Wallace; "Giralda" (overture), Adam; "Mabel" (valee), Godfrey; "Carmen" (fantasia), Vizot; "La Ma.scotte " (fan tasia), Audran ; "London " (polka), Metra ; " The Kawau March " (composed by Alfred Pooloy and dedicated to Sir George Grey); ar.d "God Save the Queen." Mr Pooloy'a March was played with such nico effect, that tho composer warmly congratulated tho bandmaster upon the result, which was all tho more creditable as tho band had only had two rehoar.als cf it. Homo disap pointment was felt at the " Marteillaise " not being played, and as tho band play again to morrow afternoon, we trust to tiod it included in their programme on that occasion A' the close of the per foimance a detachment of tho A Battery of Artillery escorted the band to the Albert Hotel, where suitable entertainment had been provided for them at the direction of His Worship the Mayor. j

About eight o'clock last evening a fire broke out in a workshop owned and occu pied by Mr OBborno, carpenter, of North cote, and situated neir the bench. Tho origin of the tiro is unknown. When dis c.vered it had a iirm hold on thy building, which was totally de-troy.d.

Tho Jubilee cantata " Britannia and Jl- r I) •,._',.is." io h- f'ven in St. James - ' li.il

jiluioi-d umni cv Hi. _xu-m of Her Majesty's iin« inior-p. Pannila will have among her at I nidi 13 i l.v j'cr, fisherman, lumberer, miner, mm Indian. Tun music throughout is very bright. Chorus of 100 voices; Mr J. H. JM m.ndee, conductor. Admission, one shilling.

After a longthy and successful career through Australia, the well-known Lynch Family leave Sydney for San Francisco, by the Zealandia, on the 20th April. The Company intend, however, to break their joumoy at Auckland, and visit a few of the principal towns in the colony. The ad vance agents of the Company are Messrs J. Smith and H. Barnes, who piloted the Com pany with great success in their recent tour through the Eastern portion of the world.

A new method of " ralai-g the wind " has boen h ; t upon by the Wellington Boor'd of Education. Tho members of that body have decided to call for .tenders for tho erection of offices of the Board, School of Design, etc., at a cost nf £5,000. The con ditions are that the tenderers shall be re quired to find the necessary capital, which shall be on interest at the rate of seven per cent, ; that the interest shall be payablo quarterly ; and that the Board will, out of its building fund, or any other funds avail able for tho purpose, reduce the capital sum owing to tho contractors by a sura not less than £500 annually till the whole claim of tho contractors be liquidated.

Another instance of tho law's uncertainty is provided in a telegram from Christcliurch which states that in the Supreme Court yesterday, Mr Justice Johnston gave judg ment for the defendant in the case, Endrund v. Tramway Company. The plaintiff's con tention was that the company had no proper authority to run a steam locomotive, and ho claimed damages for the loss of an eye by a cinder from the tram engine Suppos ing that this contention were badly founded, the lay mind fails to comprehend how_ tho Tramway Company had " authority " to (ling a red hot cinder in plaintiffs eye.

The lecture at tho Tent, Surrey Hills, last night, was well attended. The subject was of great historical value to every student of prophecy. To-night, ob will be soon by advertisement, Mr Daniells pro poses to lecture on tho return of the Jews to Jerusalem. This new and interesting subject should command a good audience.

Tho timo for. receiving tenders in the ostnte of A. S. Moore, hatter, has been ox tended to Wednesday next, as advertismont in another column.

Tho new Mantles, Millinory, and Dresses which McMastcr, Shalders, and Co. have just opened, per l.orio, are very stjlish and cheap. Call and boo them.-.-DV-.J

THE VOLUNTEER TROUBLES.

The Enquiry at a Standstill

Very little progress has been made with the inquiry into the charges preferred by Lieu tonant-Colonol Mahon ogainst Captain Mc- Donald and Lieutonants Martelliand Palmer of tho l'onsonby Rifles. Wo stated in our report of tho proceedings yesterday that the accused officers made a technical objection, which Captain Commandant l.eßoy refused to receive. When the Board was about to proceed to tako evidence rslativo to tho charges, Captain McDonald ronewed his objections, and insisted that at least a noto of them should bo takon and forwarded with the papers to tho Dofenco Department. The Board of officers produced tho gazette notifying tho appointment of Lieutenant Colonel Mahon to the command of No. 3 battalion, and considered that this was sufficient proof of his status, and that their only duty was to havo the charges before them. Captain McDonald contended that before proceeding into any charges ho had a right to be hoard in his contention that the charges were not proporlv before them. He said that in the ovent of their proceeding to take evidence, without hearing Mm, he would insist on having forwardod to Wellington his tech nical objection to tho position of Lieu tenant-Colonol Mahon, as commandor of No. 3 battalion. If however, after the Board had heard him they decided that his contention was invalid he would have to submit to their ruling. The Board then docided to hear Captain McDonald, and he then proceeded to lay be foro them tho arguments supporting his contention that tho battalion did not exist. He pointed out that the Act of lest session had abolished a number of things connected with the force then existing, hut had saved tho existing commissions, the corps of volunteers, tho Ordorsin Council relating to regulations and corps and the appointment of noncommissioned ofEcors. It, however, made no provision for saving existing battalions. He con tended that with the repeal of tho Act of ISSI, No. 3 Battalion created under the Act of that year, ceased to exist, and could only bo re-created in mannor pre scribed by the regulations, which is by noti fication in the Gazette. This had not been done, and he thore f ore held that No. 3 battalion had no existence, and Lieu tenant-Colonel Mahon no statu*. Tho B?ard thou decided to hoar the objec tions in full, and Capt-in McDouald put in a written etateoient. embodying contentions and objections. Tho Board agreed to hear Lieutonants Martolli and Palmer relative to Iho objection. These officers wero accordingly summoned, their nttendauco having previously been dispensed with to-day, and they at tended in tho afternoon. Their argu ments wore also heard, Lieutenant Palmor goinrj vory exhaustively into the subj-ct, and ndiiucing a largo number of arguments. Lieutonant- Colonel Mahon was then heard. He characterised all tho objections as trivial, and considered that tho Board should proceed to take the evidonce of the witnesses whom ho had in attendance. Ho also complained that tho accused officers had the assistance of a lawyer (Lioutennnt Palmer) while ho had none. Tho inqui y thon adjourned in order that the Board might telegraph to the law offi cers of the Crown asking their advice. This course was necessary, as the point is . very important one. If the objection is upheld, tho Wellington battalions aro the only battalions in tho colony which have a legal existence, and tho position would bo worse than awkward. The Board met again at 11 a.m. to-day, but as no reply bad been re ceived concerning the dispued point, the inquiry was adjourned till two o'clock this aftornooo.

SIR ROBERT STOUT'S VISIT.

Considerable preparations aro being made for the reception of the Promier in Auck land. It ha,, been arranged by the Com mitteo of the United Temperance Socie ties that a deputation shall bo ap pointod to wait upon tho Premier and present to him an address of Wel come, either at the Railway Station or at his hotel. With regard to the Industrial Exhibition question i f has been arranged that a conversazione shall take place in the City Hall on Monday next, when Sir Robert Stout will be in attendance. In order to show what Auckland can do in this line the winners of all special and first class priz:s at the late Sunday-school Union Exhibition havo been requested by circular to forward thoir exhibits to the City Hall or to Mr C. H. Hill's shop in Victoria street. It is intended to arrange these around the room, and no doubt tho Promier will doliver "some interesting remarks upon Industrial Exhibitions, During the evening, Messrs C. and J. Uemus, Clough, and Edger havo kindly consonted to attend and play some of their excellent string quartettes, which will un doubtedly bo an additional attraction. Sir Wm. Fox has kindly consented to preside. With regard to the political address, Mr J. Batty, secretary of the Radical Reform League, forwarded the following telegram to day to Sir Robert Stout: "We are pre paring for your address Wednesday even ing the 6th, if night please, wire.'' Should tho night solectod suit the Promier, His Worship, tho Mayor, has consented to pro side.

MINING NEWS.

(IIV TELEGRAPH —OWN COBBESf ONDENT)

Thames, this day, Cambria.—lslbs of specimens were ob tained to day from the leading stope on tho cross leader. Saxon,— A few pounds of picked stone have been bagged from tho reef in the drive at No. 3 level beyond the break.

CURIOUS ACCIDENT AT THE ASYLUM.

A bather remarkable accident happened to day to on a,ed female patient in the Lunatic Asylum. It appears that in mov ing in bod the unfortuna'o creature di.-loc atod one of her logs at tho thigh. Tlio accident to one of her advanced age (70 years) may be very serious. A remarkable feature in the case is, that the log had boen amputated, only the stump remaining.

Deaths.

KULE Died on the morning of March SI, at the residence of her parents'. College Hoad, the Infant daughter of John and Mary Rule; aged 17 months. Funeral to leave residence to mo row. Ist April, at 3 o'clock. Private interment.

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

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 1887.

For __. G-ute that lack. a_.i_t_-c«, For the wrong that noedi resistance, For the .-tore in the distance, And the good that we can do.

We fully expected the howl of opposi tion against the reduction of the Governor's salary which reached us by wire from Wellington yesterday. But we also expected that something less puerile than the reasons given by the " Po3t" for maintaining tho salary on its present extravagant scale would have been forthcoming. "It will be a bad day for the colony (says our con temporary) when it advertises its poverty and abandons its claim to rank as a first-class colony for the sake of saving a few hundreds a year by re ducing the salary of its Governor to the third or fourth-rate scale." Bah! Could anything be more childish ? Be cause the colony refuses to pay an absurdly extravagant salary and evinces its determination to economise, its credit will be injured abroad ! What has damaged New Zealand credit and driven its inscribed four per cent, stock down to £94 and £95, while Victorian four per cents, stand at £102 i to £105; New South Wales, £102"; Queensland, £101 to £102; South Australia, £101J to £102*; and Tasmania, £99 to £101 . It is simply because New Zealand has obtained the evil of being a reckless, spendthrift colony. To restore confi dence we want to make widely known abroad the fact that we have earnestly set about the work, of retrenching public expenditure. To reduce the Governor's salary will make a favour-

able impression. Bondholders who have come to regard New Zealand

securities as the shakiest of colonial stocks only want an assurance of prudence and honesty in the adminis tration of the colony's affairs. The best guarantee we can give them is evidence of a firm resolution to reduce our enormous expenditure, beginning at the Governor and going right through the civil service. The payment of .57,500 a year, as the salary of the Governor, thus setting an example of extravagance which extends to all lesser offices, must be condemned by those financiers abroad who are for ever decrying New Zealand's credit. But whatever they may think, or how ever the Belect circle of toadies who circle round Government House and stretch their legs beneath His Ex cellency's mahogany, may view this expenditure, the tax-payer who pays the money, is the only person who has any title to consideration. And when business men on all hands are complaining of losses and depres sion, and the country is groaning under constantly increasing burdens of taxation it is monstrous that the public revenue should still be saddled with .£7,500 a year for what is all but an ornamental office.

The " Post's ". arguruent, that the salary should be high in order that the Governor may maintain a liberal hos pitality, goes for nothing. .£3,000 a year will enable him to keep up his position as a gentleman; any larger sum only leads—if the Governor's inclinations turn that way—to the encouragement of social extravagances which are neither good for those who t ugage in themnor for the simplesociety that ought to obtain in a colony. In Sydney, where the Governor's enter tainments must scale with those of colonial nabobs, there might perhaps be some little excuse on social grounds for the .£7,000 a year which .His Ex cellency receives ; but what is there in the pettifogging society of Welling ton to warrant such a salary ? Who are the people who revel in his Excellency's entertainments, and for whose dear sake their brother taxpayers must pay nearly four times the salary that is paid to the Governor of the State of New York with its five million inhabitants, and within i.2,500 of the salary paid to the supreme ruler over tho fifty millions of people in tl c United States 1 If His Excellency en tertained less, many unfortunate people who are forced by his entertainments i and the social conditions which they'

beget, iiito a rivalry of extravagance, would lead happier lives and so would their tradesmen.

But we protest emphatically against the insinuation.that there is any wish to place His Excellency in a position of meanness, or to pay him beneath his rank. The present salary is an anomaly. Compare it with other positions in the British 'or foreign services, and its absurdity is manifest. Do not tho Premier of the colony and his brother Ministers entertain 1 We propose that His Excellency shall receive twice as much as any of them; twice as much as the most highly paid judicial functionary in the country. His position is analogous to that of the Governor of a State in America, only that he has less responsibility, less work, and no expenses of elections, yet wo propose that he shall have £1,000 more than the most highly paid Governor in the States receives to keep up the dignity of his office at the State capitol. There is the State of California with an area one half greater than that of New Zealand and a larger population. Its Governor sustains the diguity of Government House for GOOO dollars (£1,200) a year. In the British ser vice the salary of £7,500 a year is almost without parallel. The Prime Minister of England and his colleagues of the Cabinet get only £5,000 a year each ; the Commander-in-Chief of the British Army, Field Marshal 11.1.. H. the Duke of Cambridge, £G,632 ; the Adjutant-General of tho British forces, General Viscount AVolseley, K.P., ,£2,700; the Senior Naval Lord at the Admiralty, Vice-Admiral Hood, ;£1,500. The salary of an Admiral with Home command ia .^1,825 (with extras, table money, and allowances in lieu of servants, to £2,143) A Lieutenant-General gets only _£5 10s a day, and a Major-General £3. These are the prizes of Her Majesty's naval and military service.

The salaries of Colonial Governors are, as wo have said, an anomaly, a sur vival from a state of things which does not now exist ; and if tho Premier (Sir Robert Stout) is only as Radical in heart as in profession he will himself introduce a bill cutting down the emoluments of the successor of Sir AVilliatn Jcrvois to something like reasonable proportions.

CABLEGRAMS.

THE IRISH CRIMES BILL.

Mr Gladstone's Condemnation of the Measure.

[reuter's telegram]

London, March 29. The debate on the Irieh Crimes Bill was re sumed by Mr Gladstone, who declared that the Bill, instead of being palliative, would aggravate tho disorder in Ireland. He con sidered the removal of the venue of Irieh trials was an insult to the Irish people.

Mr Goschen, Chancellor of the Exchequer, expressed regret that Mr Gladstone did not condemn the action of the National League. The sole object of the Bill was to_restore order and respect to Her Majeßty c Judges, and liberty to all classes.

(reuter's telegram. )

Sir 11. Parkes's Budget.

Sydney, Thursday.—By the Treaeurer'a Budget proposals tho duty on spirits ia raised to 14.. Colonial beer will be subject to an excise of fourpenc. a gallon, and an increaso of threepence is made in the duty on tobacco. The propoeals generally are well received. The Kapunda Disaster.

London, March 30.—The Board of Trade inquiry into the cause of the collision be tween the ships Kapunda and Ada Mol more, which occurred off the South Ameri can coast in January last, was concluded yesterday. Tho certificate of the captain of the Ada Molmoro was suspended for two years, the captain of the Kapunda beiDg acquitted.

Father Ryan Sent to Prison.

Father Ryan, whe was recently arreetod for refusing to appear as a witness against defaulting tenants, has been committed to prison for again refusing to give evidcheb. Judgments of Colonial Law Courts.

ln tho House of Commons last night Sir Henry Holland announced that tho quea- J tion of tho judgments of colonial Law Courts would be discussed at tho Confer once. Her Majesty's Government would decide regarding legislation on tho subject after learning tho opinions of the colonial delegates. Australian Mail Contract. Mr Cecil Uaikos has requested tho Agents-General to renew parleying with tho mail companies, and it is coDsidorod probable that a compromise will be effected. It is stated that the contract of the Orient and Peninsular and Ori.ntal Companies for the carriage of the Australian mails for v term of eight years, at an annual subsidy of £100,000, has been accepted by tho Post offica authorities. New South Wales Finances Sydney, March 30. - In the Legislative Assembly to-night tho Colonial Treasurer delivered his Budget Statement to a crowded attendance. He announced that the Customs Act of last cession would be repealed, and a new tariff intro duced, which would bo limited to twenty four articles selected for revenue pur poses, and would consbt of ad ralore.m duties only. All other duties would expire on the 30th of Septombor next. The new duties would include higher rates on spirits, and excise duty on colonial ales. His esti mate? of expenditure show a reduction of £450,000 on tho appropriations for ISBS. Tho Treasurer estimates the improved re venue will yield by tho end of the year a surplus of £SOO,OOO. The deficit left by tho previous Government, which has been ascertained to bo over £2,600,000, the Colonial Treasurer proposes to separate from the curronttransactionsof the country, and pay off by savings within eight years. No other measure for new taxation was pro posed. No fresh loan will be issued this yoar. The Budget Statement was well re ceived.

AUCKLAND YACHT CLUB.

The aquatic display to takep'ace on Satur day afternoon to celebrate tho resuscitation of tho Auckland Yacht Club promises to be an event of unusual interest, should the weathor prove at all favourable. At a meeting of members held at Mr Levinsohn's Rooms last evening, Mr J. B. Graham pro siding, it was docided that the display ,-hould take the form of a procession of yachts in the harbour. Owners of the Matangi, Kit., Mareatea, Wenona, Malua, Comet, Isca, Jessie Logan, Luna, Cloud, Totnura, Spray, and many ethers signified their intention of taking part in the proces sion, and it wa. rosolved to invite ail other owners of yachts and of steam launches to co-oporato with the committee in thoir efforts to have a successful display. Tho Matangi was fixed upon as flag ship for the day, and Mr H. B. atone will supply copies of sailing directions and positions to yacht owner-) on applica tion being made at his office in. Queen streot.

It is proposed that the yachts, probably about thirty in number, shall meet at tho end of Quoon-streot Wharf and proceed down the harbour until open water is reached, then form in fours and sail back to tho point of starting, on the way per forming a variety of evolutions, and dis miss after a cruise extending over about two hours.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE'S COURT—THIS DAY.

(Beforo Mr E. G. Seth Smith, R.M ) Judgments for Plaintiffs.—J. Pearce v. A. Drain, claim £1 10s ; costs £1 1? 6d. T. Hedger v. A. Drain, claim £1 17s lOd ; costs £1 la 6d. W. E. Pain v. H. Gidleigh, claim £26 10s lOd ; costs £5 9s. N. G. Lennox v. J. H. Hill, claim £4 5s 4d ; costs £1 2s 6d. Dunningham and King v, Jas. Parkor, claim £10 ; costs £1 16s. M. Mur chio v. C. Cooke, claim £6 6s ; costs £1 17s. J. &. Gray v. E. Strokes, claim £9 8s 4d ; costs £1 17s. S. White v. S. Given, claim £1 0s 4d ; coßts £1 la 6d. Motrin and Co. v. John McUonnachie, claim £30 13s 6d ; costs £1 16s. W. Geared v. M. Frost, claim £7 5s ; costs £1 2s. J. L. Campbell v. T. M. Wilson, claim £47 lis 7d ; costs £4 19s W, D. Dallen v. D. Lindsay, claim £15 6s 9d ; costs £2 7e. W. Monaghan v. W. Higgins, claim £1 6s 4d; costs 11«. A. Bell v. Emily Brett, claim £9 8s lOd; costs 15s. A. Layboum v. C. O. Daviee, claim £3 12s 3d ; costs £1 lis 6d. W. D. Dallen v. Honry Spargo, claim £S lis lOd ; costs £1 16s. H. Mc- Laughlin v. Chas. Purdie, claim £2 Ss; costs £1 Is Od. Hawkosand Co., v. Joseph Armstrong, claim £4 3s 9d ; 17s Gd. Jas. Gibbons v. R. Jenkiuscn,)claim 14s ; costs £1 Is Cd. P. Murphy v. Jenkinson, claim 6s ; costs £1 Is 6d. F. Martin v. Jenkinson, claim Ms : costs £1 ls6d. John Martin v. Jenkinson,claim 16; costs£l IsOd. A. Darrie v. Jenkinson, claim 7s ; costs £1 Is 6d. A. Hunt v. R, Rowley, claim £19 163 Sd ; costs £2 6s.

In tho case of W. Monaghan v. W. C. Walker, claim 7s 6d, judgment was given for defendant, with costs 15s 6d.

A COOL THEFT.

At tho Police Court this morning a lad aged 17 named Matthew Carroll, was charged with tho larceny of one silvcrwatch value£2, atVVaiheke Island, the property of Mr William Hughes. Mr O'Meagher appeared on behalf of the prisoner and said that he had advised him to plead guilty He also pointed out that the prisoner was 11 first offender. Sergeant Pratt stated that it was a had case. The evidence showed that the pris oner was employed on board the cutter Watch man, and that while at Waiheke Island he saw the master of the cutter pay Mr Hughes for some firewood When they returned on board the prisoner told tho master that he saw where the money had been placed, and that he would go back on shore and take the money. Although the master warned him against such an action, the lad went ashore, and upon returning tolci the master that he had been to the house _r_?Ane-l ,V;'. atoh - , Upo - n tho cuttc ° r """h" 3ii m c mast , or informed tho police hi, L >ilr ld 'w Sa S. S r ted i whontonce confessed to &_.'• , -m ll ' ~ Meug lcr askc ' (i the bench to deal with the laa as a first offender, f.__ ?a ■ H. een lett t0 mako h " way in the world since he was seven or eight years o£ age. MrKcston, the Probation Officer, asked that the case should be remanded until to-morrow to allow- time for him to mako enquiries. The -Bench remarked that this was not a case of sudden temptation but apparently a very de liberate theft. They however granted the remand.

If the Suffkrek.. from Consumption, Scrofula, Bronchitis and Gknrral Debility- will thy Scott's Emulsion with Hvpophosphites they will Und immediate relief and a permanent benefit. The Medical Profession in the various countries of tile world, universally declare it a remedy of the greatest value ; and as it is very palatable, it can be readily taken by the most sensitive stomach and will never fail to give llie sufferer relief and comfort. Large and -mall bottles at all Chemists. 4s 6d and 2s 6d.

HIGH JINKS AT PANMURE.

Taiuahi Bridge Closed by Care taker for Arrears of Salary.

A nice little difficulty awaits official or legal adjustment at Panmure. For tho past three months the caretaker of the Tamaki Bridge has been unablo to ob tain payment of his salary, and in order to bring matters to an acute stage, so as to facilitate some settlement of his grievance, ho has adopted the drastic expedient of closing, the bridge, and thus preventing any shipping -rathe on the river. At present a vessel from Otahuhu and another from Auckland are lying at Panmure unable to get paßt the bridge, and the caretaker impervious alike to threats and blandishments, re main? master of the situation. Those who are incommoded by this state of things are said to have applied successively to the Pdkuranga Koad Board, the Government, and the Auckland Harbour Board for relief, and that each and all of those bodies disclaim any knowledge or responsibi lity in connection with the matter. Meanwhile, the caretaker grim holds the fort, and inexorably declines to allow the waiting vessels to pass until his backpay is handed over. One of these vessels is a lighter belonging to Mr L. Dacre, and is laden with bonedust.

SPORTING NEWS.

At a Committee meeting of the Auck land .lacing Club held yesterday after noon, Mr W. Percival, who repre sented the Club at the meeting of racing delegates held at Napier, submitted the result of the Conference, and the repoit drawn up by the delegates with reference to the working of the total izator at the outside meeting- The state ment was (he same as has already been fully published. The members decided to refer tho whole matter to the members of the Bacing Club at the animal meet ing. An application to remove the dis qualification from the jockey Laing for his conduct while riding Omata in the Sum mer Steeplechase was refused.

The Oamaru Derby, run yesterdoy, was won by Mr Dooley'a Witchcraft, ridden by Derritt.

Acceptances and geueral entries for the Auckland -lacing Club Autumn Meeting closo to-morrow night (Friday).

Taranaki Jockey Club Anniver sary Meeting.

(BY TELEGRAPH.—MESS ASSOCIATION )

New Plymouth, this day. The weather is fine, and attendance gocd, The course in fair order.

Maiden Plate.— Peter Osbeck, 1 ; Ban galore, 2; Weasel, 3. Five others started. Handicap Steeplechase, of GOsovs.—Dis tance, about 3 miles. Volcano, 1 ; Wideawake, 2. Blue Bell aleo ran.

A SUNDAY SELLING CASE.

Charge Against a Publican.

At the Police Court today, before Messrs Barstow and Baber, Justices of the Peace, a case under tho Licensing Act was tried. George Tolea Panter, licensee of the Waver ley Hotel, was charged with having com mitted a broach of the Licensing Act, Sec tion 157, by selling liquor on Sunday morn ing, the 27th met, to one Frederick Howard, the same not being a bona fide. traveller. Sergt. Pratt conducted the prose cution, and Mr O'Meagher the defence. — Sergeant McMahon deposed that, in com pany with Constable Lamb, he visited the Waverley Hotel about 10 minutes past 11 o'clock on Sunday morning, the 27ih inst., and proceeding round to the bar found two men, named Frederick Howard and James Alexander Reid Mackay, who were drink iog. A man named George Martin was behind the bar, and said that he had supplied the drink, and had got paid for it Howard said he had called for it. —By Mr O'Meagher : Howard said that he had told the barman that he was a traveller, and that he had slept at the Foresters' Arms Hotel tho previous night. The barmaid. Miss Atkinson, was also behind the bar, and affirmed that the men had Btatod that th6y were travellers.— Frederick Howard, farm labourer, Man garo, depo ed that on Sunday last be was in Auckland, The night previous he etayed at the Foresters' Arms Hotel, Albert street. In company with the man Mackay witne»s entered the Waverley Hotel sometime near 12 o'clock on the following Sunday morn ing. They went to the bar, and both had glafEos of beer. Could not recollect whether tie beer had been paid for. Was supplied by the barman. Witness was per fectly sober at the time. They both called fortheirdrinks. Could notswear who shouted. By Mr O'Meagher: Witness did tell the barman that he was going to Otahuhu by the 2 o'clock train. —James Alexander Keid Mackay aleo gave corroborative evidence. He told the barman that he was a traveller. Could not remember who paid fcr the drink. —Constable Lamb gave evidence supporting that of Sergeant McMahon.—Mr O'Meagher submitted that the case must fall through on the ground that the information was not certain Thetimeshould have beenset down without doubt,and should havo read thatthe two men "not being then bonafidz travel lers." But in the information the word " then " had been omitted. Mr O'Meagher then quoted from Lord Chief Justice Holt to show that all facts should bo expressly laid down, and not left for inference.—The Bench said that without further consider ing that point, they had decided to dismiss the case on the grounds that the men were bona fide travellers, seeing that they wereon their way to Otahuhu. Evidently the bar man had taken the necessary precautions. The men were travellers at the commence ment of their journey. They were bona fide travellers for ordinary purposes, but scarcely for tho purposes of the Act. They would, however, dismiss the charge.

CHARGE AGAINST A LABOUR AGENT.

At the Police Court this morning, before Messrs R. C. Barstow and Baber, Justices, Robert M. Heighton was charged with having committed a breach of the Police Offences Act, ISS4 (sec 28, sub-section 4), by obtaining from one Himon Kirsch the sum of Iss, by certain false representations, at Auckland on 18th March. Mr Theo. Cooper appeared fot the accu.ed.and said that he must apply for an adjourn ment, as tho summons had only been re ceived the previous day, and therefore sufficient time had not been allowed to pre pare a defence. Sergeant Pratt consented to tho adjournment. He stated that the prosecutor had asked him to conduct the case, and as ho knew nothing about the affair, he would have been compelled to have asked for an adjournment. The Bench accordingly adjourned the case until to morrow, Mr Cooper romarkiog that the Ist of April was peculiarly adapted for Euch proceedings.

NEW ZEALAND SHIPPING COMPANY.

(by telegraph.—press association,)

Weixikgion, this day. Private advices have been received by the last mail from an apparently trustworthy source, which give a very oocouragiog view of the improvement n tho position and pros pects of the New Zeal and Shipping Company. Our informant states that the financial ar rangements of the Company have at last been placed on a thoroughly favourable foot ing, thus relieving it of all embarras ment on that score; that satisfactory reorganisation has been Effected of tie whole system of working with highly beneficial re.ults in the direction of economy; that considerable benefit is anticipated from calling at Hobart, and a large saving. from bringing the Rteamers direct to Wellington, and distributing the cargo thence ; that Captain Halle... for merly of the Rimutaka, has been appointed marine superintendent of the Company.and that his experience, ability, and special knowledge are expectei to prove very va'u able in facilitating cci mmy combined with improved tificiency ; also, that nn exceed ingly .trong and able London B.aidhas been formed, including Sir John Curst. Mr Mundella, Mr Pearce (of Elder snd Com pany), and a director of another steamship line, who is noted for his large acquaint ance with such Bervicee as this. I

PONSONBY FOOTBALL CLUB.

The annual meeting of the Ponsonby Foot ball Club was held last evening in the In_l perial Hotel. There was a very good tendance, somo twenty members being pre sent. Mr H. H. Davy occupied the chair. The annual report, which was read by ]_ir j Arneii, Aoting Secretary, congratulated the Club on the results of the last season's play, although, the Committee would have liked to see the Club win the ,Cup, They had played a total of twelve matches; of which they won twelve, lost two, and drew one. Two of the matches recorded as wins were against the United; v.hd failed to get a team toge.hei:, and consequently Poneonby claimed them. Since the. forma tion of the Club, in 1876, the Club had the following splendid record: — Played 83 matches, won 61, drew 10, and lost 12. Ifa theinterprovincial and intercolonial matches of last season, the Club had been represented by Messrs B. Whitesido, J. Braund, J. Wooler, and J Arneil. The Committee felt that they could safely say that had it not been for tho services of Mr Whiteeide, Auckland would have fared very badly indeed, especially in the Wellington match; where he was the means of scoring both the tries that won the game. His services fb. the Club had been invaluable, and the Com mittee took the opportunity of thanking him. The report concluded by recommend ing the members to go into steady prabtice; and play well together during the season in order to ensure success. The re port was adopted, and the following new members werb proposed and elected! Messrs J. Buchanan, A. Hewson, E. Mills} and M. Douglas. Officers for the ensuing year were , elected as follows : — Presi dent, Mr J. C. Macky ; Vice-Presidents, Messrs J. M. Brigham, A. Heather; T. Macky and Jas. Dacre; Captain, Mr J; Arneil; Secretary and Treasurer, Mr J. Wooler ; Commit.cc,, Messrs W. George, R. Whiteside and H. H. Bfivy ; Delegates, Messrs J. Arneil and Cotter. It wai agreed that the Committee should arrange the record of the club matches since its formation, and have them printed with the rules in book form, and the meeting con cluded with a vote of thanks to the Chair man.

NORTHERN RIVER STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY (LIMITED).

The third annual meeting of the Northern River Steam Navigation Company {Limited) was held yesterday afternoon at the Com pany's offices. The annual report was sub: mitted a. follows:—" The director., in presenting this, their third annual report and balance sheet to February 28th, 1887. have the pleasure to inform the shareholders that, taking tho present depression of trade into consideration, the year's proceedings have been fairly successful. Your director, have the satisfaction of stating that the whole of the Company's boats are in first-class order, and with ordinaty care should not requiro any extraordinary expenditure fora number nf years. Comparing the results o! this year with the previous OBe, it is found that the gross earnings of the steamers for tho year have increased by £85 9a 4d, while the working expenses are less by £250 ss. It may not be out of place to here state that re-fitting the whole of the Company's boats has been done at an expenee of £5,699 14s sd, so that it may be fairly assumed no great outlay will be required in the im mediate future, and for the same reason it will not be necessary to take into acc.unt any depreciation until next balance." The report, as well as the balance-sheet, was adopted. Messrs Monin and Buck land were re-elected directors, and Mr J obn Waymouth auditor Votes of thanks were passed to the chairman, the directors, and the secretary, after which the meeting separated.

BANKRUPTCY NEWS.

Charles Kawlixsojt (a bankrupt) was ex' amined on oath this morning by the Official Assignee, and made the foUowing statement :— I am a carpenter by trade, and earned my living as a journeyman. 1 have occasionally taken small jobs under £20 in value. My earnings have not averaged more than 20s per week the last two years. I am a married man without family. • Previous to two years ago I had saved a small sum of money, which I lent to my father for the purpose of making good some losses on mining speculations. I had no security or re ceipt, and after his death in October, 1885, found I could not rank on his estate even as an ordinary creditor. 'With the exception of £8 for calls due on some gold-mining shares transferred to me by my father's trustees, and which are now valueless, my liability, amounting to £16019s lid. is for rent and household nccestaries contracted during the last 2. years. My difficulty in meet ing expenditure by income was increased through the delicate state of my wife's health for some years past. For the last 12 months she has been unable to perform domestic duties without assistance, and has been in the doctor's hands all that time. She has had one surgical operation performed on her, and is now being prepared for a second. Tho only assets I have aro furniture, tools, and some fowls, wMch I estimate to be worth £30, and these were seized by tho landlord under distraint for £71 rent due. He has advertised them for sale next Saturday.

VOLUNTEER MATTERS.

[BY TELEGEArn.—OWN CORRESPONDENT )

Wanoandi, this day. Captain Puknell, the well-known rifle shot, I believe, is about to retire from the Volunteers, having been connected with the movement twenty years. Captain Purnell has for some years borne the re putation of the most consistent shot in the colony, having been three times second for belt, and one year first. He -till apply for the long-service medal granted by the Go vernment.

There have been some complaints at the likelihood of the volunteers having to go to New Plymouth encampment in open trucks at night but the railway authorities have agreed to cover in the trucks and seat them properly so that all cause of cam plaint is done away with.

TELEGRAMS.

Thames, this day. A subscription has been started in aid of Robert Smith and wife, whose house in Waiotahi Creek was recently destroyed by fire. Up to the present, £35 have been sub scribed.

Sudden -Death.

New Plymouth, this day.

Frederick Elliott, letter-carrier at the post effice, died suddenly this morning, He was formerly a sergeant in the 56th re giment, and had been a letter-carrier for ten years. He was awakened this morning about 7 o'clock, when he said ho did not fealwell, and on being lifted up he quiotly expired. As blood was found on his pillow, it ia thought he had broken a blood versol.

Leu sing Small Runs.

Wanganu., this day.

Tho sale of small run leases by the Crown L.nds Department to-day was very success ful. Sea coast runs brought as high as SJd. per acre; and Maungagaketu leases, Is. 1 id., Is., and Od. (upset). Three of the latter were unsold, and one of the former. .

Christchurch, this day.

The Jubilee.

Tho " Star " is inviting opinions on the schemes proposed here for celebrating the Jubilee. The result so far evidences very little real interest, but a great majority of opinions read in favour of a home for the aged and indigent. The Sailors' Home. A report on the Sailors' Home was sent to the Harbour Board meeting yesterday. There is a debit balance of £15 3s Id on the year's business, but this is wholly owing to exceptional loss through some men, after being imprisoned for refusal to work, were reoeived into the Home and incurred debts to the amount £3919. 9d. Had it not been for this loss, there could have been a profit for ISS6 of about £.5. The Committee therefore consider that the Home is financially successful. During ISSS, there were 283 inmates.against 318 in 1886. The amount deposited in the bands of the Super intendent for safe keeping during ISB6 was £1,23(3, a considerable increase over the amount deposited in 1885, viz., £890. Dunedin, this day. The compensation claim Barr v. the Minister of Public Works, for £2. TSO, set down for hcariog, has boen settled by the payment of £600 Criminal Calendar. On ihe ciicninal calendar there are eight prisoners, including one charged with rape, one with tho embezzlement of oounty funds, and one charged on fourteen indictmenta with the embezzlement of railway funds.

?¥___ AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 1887,



SPECIAL PRICES, TO MEET THE TIMES. MILNE AND CHOYCE Bob to Notify that they have made X ARGE pEKMANENT T> EDUCTIONS In tho Prices oith.lr t.ADIES' AND CHILDREN'S UNDER CLOIHING AND BABY LINEN. Those Goods are imported from the Largest and Most HeliabloManu -Cturetß In London, and are guarantied to bo Well made and of Good Quality. As these Goods are now Marked at so Small a Profit, larger <Jnan liliis »ii liliglmpted In anticipation of a Groatly Increased Sale. INSPKOTION 13 INVITED. MILNH AND C/HOYCB, QUBKN AND WKLLKaiiBY STRKETB



W. S. L AraM * C - CUSTOMS ANT) BTAN-j_T-ST-t_--Ta, AUCKLANa 3eed and Manore Merohanta Bonedust Manufacturers Agents for Peruvian Government Guana Importers of Fencing Wire, Back*, WMI Paokß. etc Casb Purchasers of Bonn A DAM T AYBOOKN & /^.0., AUCKLAND. NEW CLOVER ) Best English Seeds, from > James Carter & Co, NEW TURNIP. The Queen's Seedsmen. RYE GRABS, COCKSFOOT, and NATHRAL GRASSES. All new Seeds. Fencing Wire at Reduced Prices. '•pOLDBN GEM" PLO V R "XL ALL" OATMKAL Are the best brands In this market. TBY THEM. ALFRED JOWIIT, Sou. Abbot.



JW-OTIOH OF REMOVAL. W. B. MELDRUM, TAILOR Wishes to Inform his numerous Mends and cus tomers that he has REMOVED to those more Central and Spacious Premises adjoining W, Norrie, SHORTLAND-STREET, And begs to solicit a oontlnnance of past patron »ge by all old and new patrons. Suns vbom £3 15s, All Work done In First olaas Sty Is, N.R-In ttendanse Wbd!i__o__tand Batch, oa* Nights till 8 o-look. ««o_to«. PARK HOUSE (Metropolitan croW, T OTORIA-BTRKBT BAST. OT-U- _I_S-__T PARK -an-UKCH. B-RST CLASS PRIVATE BOARD AND RESIDENCE. Lofty, well-lighted, and ventilated Bed end Sitting-rooms, Bath-rooms, and every conveni ence for Families. Traveller., and Boarder.. _______ £1 PibW__k. WRIGHT'S PRIZE BILLIARD TABLB. Private Suites for Famines, and every Attention Combined with Comfort. B. DAWES, Proprietor. Telephone SU. Tp O R SALE, The following KXTIIAORDINARY BAR GAINS at FKKNAND-CZ'S. Newton :—1 ease of Men's Real Pith Helmets, 2s 6d each, honettlr worth 10s; Men's Servicable Dark Tweed Suits (complete!, for 15a, reduced from -sa. Men's Strong Working Shirts with Collars, Is 6d eaoh, usual price, 2s 6d. Coloured Moleskin Trouofrs for working men, 3s lid a pair; Good Quality I_ .rge White Blankets. 4s lid each, worth 7s 6d; 10- dozen Boys' Black Felt Hate, Is eaoh, former price 2s Also: _3,00. worth of General Drapery and Clothing at a Reduction of from 5s to 10a in the A The lesson I am almost giving away my Good" is because I am trying to give up.—l. FERNANDEZ, Draper. Karangabape Road.



THIRTY THOUSAND SARDS or T\RBSa TyTATERIAL, To be sold AT GREATLY REDUCED PRICES. H. ATKINS HAS MAKE-CD DOWN THE PRIOES OF SUMMER DRESS MATERIAL 20 to 30 feb Cent. There la a Splendid Stock still left to roleot from, and the Reductions will be found to be Genuine. BLACK and COLOURED SILKS will also be sold at a Reduction In Price. A Few Pieces of Magnificent Quality BLACK SILKS, to be sold at English Prices. An Overstock of UMBRELLAS. SUNSHADES, etc., to be sold Cheap. The Balanoe of CARPBVS (about 1,500 yards) to be oleared at cost and under. A Large Stock of LONG CURTAINS. TABLE LINEN. SHEETING. BLANKETS, QUILTS, and MANCHESTER GOODS. Best value In Auckland. A Splendid Stock of K4.IAPOI CLOTHING, In Boys', Youths', and Men's; Splendid Value; Cheaper than Imported Clothing, MENS MERCERY, SHIRTS, SCARFS, UMBRELLAS, &0. ALL GOODS TO BE SOLD AT PRICES TO MEET THE TIMES. H, A _n_Tl NB.



SOUND LUNGS.—The robuat vitality of the breathing powers Is a bleesfhg which ii rarely appreciated until such tell diseases as bronchitis and cinoumption seize the framo and rack it with the consuming Are of .wasting j de.th. AttheSratsjmptomßOtthaapproaching marfcdy seek Invigorating recuperative reme dies. The sanatory eucalyptus and restoring ttervfhe—hypophosphltes, with the febilf-g&l tonic quinine, are tho best suited to arrest the peril that insidiously undermines the health of advancing youth. Inquire tor Alckin's Eyrnp c< Kncalyptus with Hypopho_p_i.es of Lime and Quinine; price, Sand. JUBILEE UMBRELLAS 1 JUBILEE UMBRELLAS 1 A New Feature in, Umbrellas with r~y unique Handle, Swdird, Crown, and H.I. rH Majesty's bust. The only Now Stylo of .J Umbrella in Auckland, forming a hand- gomo present to. a lady, tor _0s only. . -<J L^ E CURTAINSI A New Style o. Lace Curtains. Al though tho newest of the nowost design*, [jj will De sold at thirty-flvo per cent, less than their value. . W gLANKETS. Ilnyets of Blankets should comfl and see our window. Note the quality and the QJ Reduced Prices. T ~J. CLOTHING, CLOTHING oITHiNG!f£) Try tho Great .Clearance Salo before pur- -j -g chasing Clothing for yourself .or sons. IT! § VELVETEENS 1 VELVETEENS I | VELVETEENS. 3 One Shilling per yard. r ,jj MANTLES. FUR CAPES. FUR <j g WRAPS, CASHMERE CLOAKS, g WATERPROOF CLOAKS, td H Now being offered in the Show Room. Lj g LACE CURTAINS ! r K t* LACE CURTAINS! CJ g Laco Curtains of tho most Choice Do- a signs. Just brought forward, and will o bo oil-roll during the Great Clearance _rj §_>s___ ?_,§ PLUSHES! PLUSHES! PLUSIIKSI S All shades, at 2s lid per yard; Im- UL_| mensoly reduced in price. .«-. COLOURED KID GLOVES, BLACK hrl KID GLOVES, .-buttoned, at is Od l-H per pair—not one-quarter their valuo. _Q COUNTERPANES. QUILTS, X; TOWELS, TOWELLING, SHEET- rf) INGS, TICKINGS, in fact, every article ~t in tho Manchester Department, at enor- -^ mougly Reduced Prices, HOSIERY! HOSIERY! HOSIERY I J? Ladies and Children's Hosiery, all reduced in price. j_j /GENUINE REDUCTIONS £_j IN EVERY ARTICLE. AT T. SHORT'S GREAT CLEARANCE SALE By Order of the Executors. [a card ] DR LBGER ERSON, Parnell (late Dr Goldsbro's residence)— Attends for Con sulfation lAt Home. 8 to 9 a.m.; Alcken'i Pharmacy. Queen street. 1 to 2 and 7 to 8 p-m- Saturday, Panmure and Otahuhu. Telephone, .76.