COMING EVENTS.

Blootlngs. oto. r To-night. AbhY.i's Opira Houso-Willlameon. Garner, and Mu'ir.ore'sCimpatiy In "Betsy. »• . Kel&iou° Meeting in the Tent on Surrey Hills Kstate. Poosonby Road. 7 30. „_..„.„ and St James's Hall-Cantata: Britannia ana Cll- C Hall-'unitei' Temperance Co* versa done. Look' Room In uranco Buildings -Meettaglto c™>iier adrisibility of oolebretiDg Queens DrittSS "& Z Regiment Artillery, A Battw, Fnnsonby Club Hotjl-Ponsonby Rowing Club. Imocrial Ho'el-Auckland Athletic Ground Frmc" P o? y \Valcs Hotel, Hobson street-Nelson Ma°onie l H^. l Ne 8 Lot go of Mark StM"oM"Newto*-Uai™d Football Club. 7.30. Kobe"; Barns Club Room. Newton-Western Branch of Auckland Industrial Association. iJ.baon'd Roomi-Aucklsni Branch Federated Seamen's Unloa, ".SO. Rota of Justices at the Police Court. April G-L. Ehrenf ricd and F. G. Kwington. Auction Sales To-morrow. B Tonka and Co.—Prjp rtles-. &a. 12. O. W. Binney & Sons-Arplco, Cheese, Butter, and Onions, 12. G Lewis -.Earthenware. Glasew aro, Dolls. S.C. 11.

Chief Post-office, Auckland.

AfAILS WILL CLOSE AS UNDEK I— Taia Da- Fbr Tauranga and Opotiki, per ChelJßß_ta\-. at Kor P oi_bo.ne and Kapler, per WaWaMl. or _r o rw2_Sat!BS_. Pama. garei, Kamo, and Mangapal, per \V elll-«-o____ F" a We?l'lr.gtcn and Southern PSitf.per Fen via Hip deJa*? and PI, month (per Kaikoura, from "c'™^ toa on April 7) per Penguin at 5 p.m. l_u__ Mail will be due at Plymouth on l!)lh May. For Thames, per Kotuku, at c.30 p.m. Wednesday, 6th Inst. For Friendly Island h. Samoa. Tahiti, nnd Raro . tonga, per Janet Nicol 1 , at ll a.m. __,_,_,_ For Coromandel, per Ooromundei, at ll.ju n-m. Per Tarawera as follows >^- For China. Japan. Suez,- Mediterranean Porte, nt 3 p.ra. _ . Foi' Rnssell, Ka»akawa. Australian ; LOl oales, ond United Kingdom, vilr BrindiS- or Naples, per Orient -_.t_amer, for letters, etc., specially so prepaid and addressed.»- i p.m. For money orders, registered letters, and newspapers, at' 3 p.m. ..__.__. _._i_ Late letters for Sydney and-Melbourne only at 420 p.m. , _ , United Kingdom mail will bodue in London on May 24: Fot Katikatl, Aongatetp, Tauranga, and Opotiki, via, Thames, per Enterprise, at sr.m. For Thames, per Enterprise, at 5.30 p.m. Thursday, 7th inst. For Port Bltzroy, Trypheno, and Okupu, per lona, at 7 a.m. , ForWalwero. Te Kopa and Warkworth, per KoseCdfeoy-. at 10 ______ _ For Gisborne. Napier, and Southern Ports, per Waihora, at ____ (Signed) S. B. BIBS, Chief Postmaster. Chief Post-office. Anok—Sd.

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

«, . Sunset.—This evening, 5 49. Sunrise—To-morrow morning, 6 20. Moon's Aca—Fall Moon Btb, 5 18 p.m.

HIGH WATER.

Auckland — This evening, 4.56; to-morrow morning, 5.25. M . Manukau Hi_Anß — This ovening, <36; to morrow morning, 8 5. __a_fara Heads - This evonlng, 8.36: to morrow morning, 9.5.

ARRIVALS.

LIST EVUNING. Linda Web.r, brigantlno. Bnsbell. from Noumea Tarawera, s.a . Sinclair, from South Queen, schr., Jones, from Hokianga TODAY. WeWnuton, b.b.. Stephenson, from Whangarei Walluia s s., Popham, from Sydney

DEPARTURES.

J,ASr -EVENING. Clan'-ttiafi, _:,_.. Fatquhar, for Roßaell Jotiu. 8.5., Amcdeo, lor Tauranga

STEAMERS TO ARRIVE.

Coromandel, from Coromandel, today. 5 p.m. lona. from Mercury Biy, Thursday, early Clansman, from Ru_s.ll, Friday, early Arawa, from Plymouth, April 10 Wellington, from Whangarei, Wednesday night

IMPORTS.

Per Wnitakl: ICO bags rye grass, 10 tonß Wood's flour (100- and 50's). Por Tarawera: 50 baga rye grass. 50 bans onions, 166 bags pota toes. 10D bigs oats. Per Stanley: 3.0 bagß wheat, and ICO bigs 'D.' oats.-G. V. JAKINS. Per Walhora: 66 oheeso, 15 casea cigars, 188 pieces timber, 950 fel'.oss 1.500 spokes, 26 pieces shafts, 200 sacks bonedUßt, and cargo for Southern porte. Por Tarawera : 100 bags rice, 50 bags sago. ICO bags bark, 100 bundles willows, 25 bundles raisins. 50 ca es jams, 10. sicks flour, 281 pack ages per Boott_sn Bard, 269 packages tea, 93 sock- seed, 176 sacks onions, 10 hhds ale, 70 sacks meal, 1.4 boxes soap. 20 cas.s gi-ger-ale, 151 pickaxes per Tongarlro, 1.302 sacks oats, 345 boxes oandles, 3,379 sack wheat, 210 sacks potatoes. Inwabds Coastwise. — Four Sisters, from Omaha; Waitemata. from Whacgatoni. OuTwARDa Coastwise. — Saucy Kate, for Mongonul; Four Sisters, for Whangarei; Wai temata, for Mangawal. brigantine D.fl.nco has been eharterod lo load Umber at Kaipara for Newcastle. The barque Veritas goes hence to Newcastle in ballast. Tha schooner O -pheus goes from this pott to Mercury Bay to loid timbor for Suva. The brigantine Oamaru entered outwards to day for Raro-onga, Tho departure ot tbe e.s. Tarawera for Sydney has beon postponed till 5 pm. to-morrow. The brigantine Btanley has berthel at Qaeen _tr_ot Wharf. The barque Laira tnd brigantine IkaVuka were floated out of dook to day. and the barque Easterblll was dooked for cleaning. The schooaor Columbia cleared at tho Cus toms to-day for Napier, with 90 ions drain pipes. The s s. Australia was loading BUgar at the New Zealand Sugar Company's Wharf today. She goes South this evening. Tha a s. Rotomahana has been laid up for to day and to-morrow for an overhaul. She leaves for Thames again at 12.30 on Thursday. The Bohoaner Queen brought from Hokianga 2 tons bridge iroawork. 10 case, fruit, 50 hides, 3 tons gum, 1 ton sundries, 4 piles. Tde sou-west gale blowing on th 3 West Coast prevented tha Oreti from loavlng for Wanganui to-day. bat ehould it havo moderated she will positively leave at 3 p.m. to-morrow (Wednes day). Tho Echooner Linda Weber which arrived from Long Island and Noumea, experienced some very heavy weather during th« voyage, and both topmaata carrled]away. Passengers— Masters Lowis and Robson. The s.s. Wellington arrived from Whangarei at 330 a.m. to-day. with the following pas senger.: BAessrs Williams. Burnett, Carnahan, Campbell, McGregor, Buohanan, Goodwin, Little, CimpbelL Harper. Alderton. Slmson, MoLeod. Thomas, MarshallMcLean. Mr and Mra Hardy. Mr and Mrs Goldle. Be v. Mghoney, Mesdames MoLoan, Stewart, Watt, Palmer, Misseß Hill, West, Rosb. and 6 in steerage.

THE TARAWERA.

These. Tarawera arrived from Melbourne, via Southern porta, at 10.30 p.m. yesterday, having been detained bye, strong westerly gale and heavy sea between Gisborne and this port. Passengers :-Ml_ses Hall. Rose. Linson, Re mington. Wills, Mesdames Hanmer. Rayner, Oatway and infant, Dowie, Connolly. Newton, Anderson and child. Messrs Butterworth, Bar rett. Walsh, Rhiad, Oatway, McLaren. King, Graham, Curling, G. C. A. Jonson, Hatcn, Rucx. Si-cpkin, NewtoD, Anderson, Williams, F. A. Jocbou, Tatham, Davis, Holdaway, Foun tain, Daniel. Bai'ey. Owen, .Hanmer, Walker, Donne. Dowle, Judd, Deverlll, Lush, Bkirdon, Connolly. Longland. Cattanach, Mackay, Ley don, Vauticr (2). and 17 in steerage

THE WAIHORA.

Tho s s. Walhora arrived in port irora Sydney it ii)a.m to-day. Bolt Bydne? at 110 p.m. on S B 3U«-_fcTbre_tS the We Kings at 030 v m. on tho 4th. and passed the North Cape at 4.15 pm. same day, arriving as above. Experi ence-moderate and variable winds and fine weather throughout the passage. Passengers . for Auokland: Saloon: Miss Ireland. Colonel. Mre Ik-rand Mite Forbes, Mr and Mrs Owen, ___randM-_Hcnto n . Messrs W. Thomp son Oskden, W F. Shells. A. Makepeace. L. F. tubbs, O. OUmour, A. B. Burt, T Reld. S. Mackay. and 16 steerage. For Napier: 2 steerage For Wellington: Saloon: Rev G.andMrßUnr-. Mr and Mrs Goodfel low Mr and Mrs v> utt. Messrs Boys, Graoe, Lizird, Balcombe, 7 steerage, and also pasaen ~-. _ fir f nnthorn norts.

THE MARY KING.

A headboard with the name Mar/ King ot. X painted in yollow letter, on black, wes picked i?l i_t Haves Point neor Mackay, Queensland on _Sb ln-t Tlub Is the first evidence yet found of -*■ loss of this vessel, which leltLyttelton early iv _£__ry, 1854, for Towosyille, and was never he£d 0 f afterwards, excepCwhen spoken by a vcbT. bound for New Zealand, on the 26th of thaCnonth, to the south-east of New Cal_ donu;

ELEGRAPHIC SHIPPING.

! X -.— - r\_pssß. this day.—Arrived: Clansman, from - I arm. I ja, this day.—Arrived: lona, from . / ,10a.m. /■ wN,\April 2.-The Aorangi sailed yes ■ I >r Wrtliogtoii, viaßobait.

JRANCE COMPANIES ASSOCIA TION.

.-The Insurance Companies' Offices will be CLOSED oa FRIDAY. Bth, SATURDAY, 9th, aid MONDAY, Uth April, Eabter Holidays. HENRY WORSP, -..'- . -Secretary.

Births.

KKLLBT.—On April i, 1887. the wifo of Thomas Kelly, Bymonds strcot, of a sod.

Deaths.

CBOWK.-On Saturday, tho 2nd inst.. after two days' Illness, John, only surviving son ot William and Mary Crowo ; aired 8 years and 3 months.

Notices to Correspondents.

J.M.—The Cltv of London foundered In tho Bay of Biscay when bound for Melbourne, in tho year 1865.

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

TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 1887.

Tot the caul, that lack* a__i-tance, for tho wrong that necili rc-i-tanr.t, For tho future in tho distance, And tho good that we can do,

His Worship the Mayor received a com munication from the Colonial Secretary to day, stating that, ho has not given his sanction to tho proposed site for a Roman Catholic cemetery at Mount Albert. This announcement is satisfactory. Until it is ulearly proved that the drainage from Mio land selected finds its way in a direction away from the sources of tho city water supply, the proposal to establish a cemetery in this locality must be vetoed. It is not so very long ago that a city tanner was -ompelled to remove his works nt vory great cost in consequence of an action in the Supremo Court brought by a neighbour who proved that the drainage from the tannery, passing down a natural gully, poisonod his cattle. Now we take it that the lives and health of the citizens of Auckland are of moro value than those cattle ; and that if there is no existing law to prevent tho pollution of our water supply by drainage, some law must be found that will do it. In his recent re port upon tlio water supply the Colonial Analyst, Mr Pond, spoke with grave con cern of the drainage from Mount Albert cemetery, and we feel confident that the citizens of Auckland will novor let this matter rest until the suspicion which taints our supply is removed. While there can be no compromise on this question of our water supply, however, we do not believe that public opinion will uphold the Council in establishing a mo nopoly in cemetery, matters simply because they have a monetary interest in Waikomiti. That cemetery is in disfavour with many people—it is inconvenient to reach nnd expensive. If any religious , body or private company chose to establish a cemetery npon a suitable site, wo do not believe that the Corporation interests should stantl in the way. Competition might not be at all a- bad thing in this matter. There are many suitable sites along the shores of the harbour, with natural drainage to the sea, against which no objection on sanitary grounds could be urged. Why such a site has not been chosen in the present instance we are not in a position to say, but we believe that if any Company had laid off such a block and arranged with the religious bodies to take up sections of it, they would havo made a very gooil speculation.

Proposed Kindergarten for Auckland.

Mrs Dudley Ward, who ia welt-known for her worka of practical, benevolence, has convened a meeting.of ladies to be held to morrow afternoon, at hor residence, Princes street, for the purpose of taking the necessary steps to introduce the Kindergarten system to Auckland. She has been struck by the large number of children under school age who are to. be met with, in the, streets of Auckland, and impressed also by the deficiency of: means to promote their moral welfare. It ia for tbe purpose of supplying this want, and therefore check ing at its source the fertile grd.wth of larrlkinism, that the lady has been moved to establish a central kindergarten in Auck land in the hope that this system will flourish and extend. The public will be invited to promise nnnuol subscriptions of £1 or 10a each, and when a sufficient sum is assured for the first year's maintenance, operations will be actively commenced. Mrs Ward has already ascertained that there ia a trained Kinder-garter, teacher in the South, whom sho can obtain at a salary of £100 per annum, and the next object would therefore bo to hire a proper, building in a central situation, tit is expected that ladiea would volunteer to aeeiet in the echool, and as they attained proficiency, thoy might undertake tbe formation and manage- I ment of distinct branches. j

The method of instruction proposed will be aimilor to that pursued in tho Government Kindergarten at Wel lington, with the addition of careful moral and religious training. In Welling ton 500 children attend the Kindergarten, and here it should prove even more suc cessful. It would be open to children between tbe agea of 2 and 6 years, no charge whatever being made, and the youngsters would be instructed in calisthenics, singing etc. and familiarised with the names and uses Of the ordinary objects of life. They will be instructed by a ayatem of object leeeons, everything being co arranged as to stimulate and enliven the infantile mind, and the greatest ca c being taken not to weary or distress it. The Kindergarten would be furnished with a view to the regular presentation of objcet lessons, and so that gentle and en i'oyable exercise for feet and arms ehould ie always readily obtainable. The sys tem baa proved moet successful and beneficial wherever it has been tried, and there is every hope of it achieving very great good in Auokland. Mra Ward has issued some 90 circulars for her meeting, and we trust to find it largely attended by the ladies of Auckland,

Through being sent to press without re vision, one or two clerical errors crept into our leading article yesterday upon the Roman Catholic Cemetery Leasing Bill. It was at St. Patrick's, not St. Benedict's Church, that Father Kehoe's address was delivered. The word " survivors " was also printed in place of " surviving relatives."

Amongst the passengers by tho Tarawera last night was (be liov. Mr Do.vio, tho "Faith Heaier." Ho opens bis miseiun here at the Cboral Hall on Sunday next.

On 'Change to-day, Saxons Bold at 2s 61 and _!- 7d, and Cambrias at 4s 9d. . ''

A lad named Stiohbury, whoso parents reside at Parnell, mot with a painful ac cident on Sunday evening last. Mr and Mrs Stichbury and some childron had beon nut for n drive to Otahuhu, and wlron re turning to Auckland Percy Stitchbury fell out ol tho trap and was oovciely injured. He was taken to tho residence of Dr. _.cott, Oaehungo, and fclint gentloman found that sevoral rito were broken. Tho injuries were attended to by Dr. Scott, after which tbo lad was taken to his homo. He .3 now progressing favourably,

Mr J. C. Firth ban recognised ti'.o pVompt action of his employee: in c>.:l"-ip\-"shii;gt.ia lire in his bundedstoro ot> Saturday last by forwarding to tho manager (Mr .Tames Ed lnietoo) tho sum of I'lO With a letter of thanks, ami £5 for dis.i'ibiitioti amongst tbo omploya-K ; also a letter of thanks uud_lho sum of £5 to Mr 3. Brown, who discovered tho firo and promptly gavo tho alarm.

Thoso who assembled on tho wharf this morning to moot Iho .toatnci' .Vaihorn, from Sydney, woro rather surprise:!, and probably annoyed, to see tho forward end of the ship packed with Chines-, thirty-livo in number. Public feeling was, however, partially roliovod whon it became known that tbo Celestials wore bound South, thirty-four of their nuinbor being booked for Wellington, Thoy nro said to bo tindor engagement to work in tho coal mines at Groymouth. Thu authorities, as usual, collect the £10 a head poll tax, which in this instance will represent a largo sum.

Jn reply to a correspondent " Colling wood-atreet'e " complaint, wo aro informed that in all cases where wator is cut oft, timely uotice, ii possible, is given by ad vertisement, or verbally in many instances. Whero it is supposed tho water has Loon cut or turned off, it is found somo slight impediment has got into tho tap, or servloo pipe, and inßtoad of complaining of tho supply being cat off a plumber should be sent for, or tho tnp nnd pipe examined.

Hooker's Incandescent Light, of which notices hovo appeared in our columns, is t-xhibitod ot Mr Craig's premises in Symonds street, a short distanco abovo tha Grammar School. Tho steadiness of tho light in tho opoti air ia tho gonoral tliorao of'admiration and surpri_o.

Tho annual installation of W.M. nnd officers of Eodgo Albion, E.C.,.takes pluce on Thursday next. A dispensation has been grunted to hold the mooting in tho Dovonport Hall, owing to tho hull tho Lodgo meet in boiug too small. Tho now W.M. is Bro. J. Knox, and tho installing ceromoiiios will bo performed by Bros. M. Niccol and S. Vosper. A steamer loaves town for tho North Shore at 7 o'clock.

At tho annual mooting of tl.o Board of Education this afternoon, Mr S. Luko was re-elected Cbairmun on proposal that Mr Upton should be olocted being withdrawn. Mr Lennoxlwusappointod a member of tho Grammar School of Govornore.

Mr Superintendent Thomson distributed long service medals yesterday at parado to tho following mombors of tho force: — Senior Sergeant Pratt, Sergeants Bedford, Gamble, nnd Clarke, Dotcctivos Doolan and Hughes, and Constables Clark, Ilobson, and Hinton. Othor medals are also to be forwarded to live of the out station men. The medals bear tho inscription, "For good con duct and long service." To bo tho recipient of one of them a constable must hovo beon 14 years in the service, and for a certain time must not havo had a bad bad conduct mark. To po««ess thoso medals is, therefore, a record of good character.

A first mooting of tho creditors in tho estate of James JLowo was hold to-day at the ollico of the Official Assignee, when it was decided that tho bankrupt bo allowed to rotain the wholo of hia household effects (valued at under £251 aud an American organ.

At tho weekly mooting o tho Onohunga Borough Council hold la. tonight, it waa re solvcdto callnpublicineolingatnn onrlydnto to consider the Cemetery Bosarvo Bill and the Water Reserves Bill, drafts of which woro before tho meeting. A report on tho Manukau harbour by tho Financo and Gonoral Purposes Committee. Tho Com mittee recommended the Council to opon up communication with tho Auckland Harbour Board. It was decided to appoint the Mayor and Messrs Wilson and Goldabury the committee to confer with tho Auckland Harbour Board on tho subject.

Tho former Engineer cf tho Harbour Board (Mr I>. E. .McDonald) has returned the Haibour Board's lottor of March 'Jth re main eowor discharge and silt punts, in which tho following resolution was enclosed :—" That Iho recoipt of the le.tors(MrMcDoiiald) be acknowledged and Mr McDonald informed that tho Board de clines to entertain any furthor enr respondendenco with him." Mr Mc- Donald appends tho following memo. : " I decline to receivo tbe insolent resolution convoyed in this letter and should untrue statements appear in tho press relative to me, emanating from certain nteMti. rs, I shall take 6uch means of refuting them as may appear to me most advisable. (Signed) D. E. McComlii."

At Pukokohc Spociul Court, boforo Moseis Wright and Russell, J.P.'*, Edward Doughorty, who was arrested by Dotectivo Hughes for swindling t-hrco natives with tho card trick, was sent to Mount Eden for ttueo months in default of paying a lino of £10.

Tho case of Ernost John King v. William G. Cowie, a claim for injunction to prevent pollution of certain water, and for £150 damages, was settled between tbo parties this morning ; tho defondant promising to remove the cause of complaint.

A number of the membor of the police force, aa well as many other friends, wore present at tho funeral of the late Miss Elizabeth Gamble, daughter of Sergeant Gamble, which took placo on Sunday last at:'Waikomiti. Tho cause o! death was rapid consumption. It was not until last January that the disease made itsoll ap parent, but it developed very rapidly.

A man named Arthur German was ar rested this morning on the charge of travelling on the s.s. Waihora without having previously purchased a ticket with intent to ovado payment of eamo.

Tbis morning Detective Hughes brought down from Papakura a man named Hugh Sullivan, who was arrested on a warrant of commitment and Eent up for two months for nonpayment of maintenance fees for support of his children in the Industrial School. :

Tho annual meeting of the White Star Football Club was held on Friday, let inst, in the Onehunga Schoolroam, Mr tjeorge Otway in tho chair. Thero was a large attendance of members. The roport and balance sheet were read, and ehowed that the funds of tho Club were in a satisfactory condition. A large number of new mom bers wero elected. The following officers were appointed : - Presidont, Mr L. J. Trol lope; Captain, Mr H. Jeffory ; Deputy- Captain; Mr J. B. Watkis ; Secretary, Mr M. H. Wynyard; Treasurer, Mr L. Francis ; delegates, Messrs Jeffory, Otway, andßobb After a good deal of discussion it was agreed to chango tho name to Waverley, anel to adopt crimeon as tho uniform.

This is nn oxcollcnt timo to got bargains. It is considered that Ihe valuo of suburban land, has reached tho lowest point, and that present purchasers will rich results; an oppo tuuity occurs rcxt Wednesday. Messrs Ton]., and Co will sell positively thoso iiuißniil ccq- sites, tho last of the volcanic land at the North Shore, situated on tho Ylcoiia Roa-l, faclne tho racecourse-; also thoio sites on tho Vauxhall Road, looking down on Cheltenham Beach and It -njritcto Channel It should bo remembered that tho "unearned incr.ment" is an assured thing to these who buy this proporty at tho present timo.

VOLUNTEER INQUIRY.

I The inquiry into the No. 3 Battalion troubles was resumed thia fornoon. all

the membors of the Board being in attend ance. Extraordinary precautions were taken to prevent any information respect ing the proceedings from leaking out, and it was amusing to notice tho extreme disin clination of thoso concerned to hold any communication with pross repre sentatives. We may state, however, for the information of our readers that tho Board decided to hear the fresh evidence offered by Lieutenant Colonlo Mahon, but which was objected to by Captain McDonald on Friday. The only witness called this morning was Private McCarthy, who was a member of the Ponsonby Rifles when the now cele brated meeting was held. Lieutenant Colonel Mahon has a great many more wit nesses yet to call, and Captain McDonald has also hiß wltneeses to call for the do fence, so that it will be spare timo yet before the charges against Lieutenants Martolli and Palaa6r are taken.

Thames, this day, Caledonian. -Colours of gold aro seen in No. 1 reef at 1 o. 2 level.

Ca.-uiria, —_. start has been made to sink a\i iozo on cross leader at JS'o. 2 level. It ia down 3ft, but no quartz has yet boon broken down. The crushing is shaping for good return. .'

"BRITANNIA AND HER DAUGHTERS."

St. James's Hall waa well filled last evening on tho occasion of tho pro' duetion of tho v'ubi.efe cantata, " Britannia and i. or Daughters," by a choir oil oV-or. voices, con d-ictod by Mr J. H. Edmonds. Tho hall '.Va. fas-oiulty decorated with Hags, ever 'F.Veon'a, nnd pot plants, wliilo bohind tho orchestral bonches iho wall-was covered with text scrolls bearing tho following devices :•— "Long May Victoria Reign," " The Yoar of Jubilee is Come," " God S.vo tlio Queen," also tho words, "Britannia," "Canada,' " Auetralia," "New Zealand," and " South Africa." Punctually at eight o'clock the choir took thoir placos, aftor which "Bri tannia" (Miss Alico Leßoy) entered and ascended tho throne. Mr J. D. Gow officiated as Lord in-Waiting, and Mr ,1. Smith vory appropriately represented tlio First Lord of the Admiralty. Bohind tho throno, wero ranged Britannia's Guard of-Honour, consisting of Boldiors and tho City Guard's uniform, and sailors in tlio C-Stumo of tlio Naval Brigade. Tho cantata was opened by the company uniting in singing "Gd save tho Queen." tho nudionco of courso rising to their feot, Mr J. L, Kolly then came forward and read an original poem writton by request as a prologue to tho Cantata, The loyal and patriotic sontimonts expressed by the author evoked tho applause of tho audience. The Lord in-waiting then aunoun oi to tho Mother of Nations that somo of her daughters had como across the sea to honor her jubiloo. Tho chorus "Mighty Britannia, Mother of Nations," was then sung in a spirited mannor, Mr 11. Bo wo officiating as pianist, and Mr W. E. Baxter as orcanist, Tho whole performanco passed off vory satisfactorily, but wo aro compelled to hold over our detailed notice Most of tho musical selections woio credibly ren dered, though perhaps tho audionco would bettor onjoy tho cantata wero it possible to somewhat shorteu tho do scriptive recitations, n. they cause tho piece to drag a little. Tho Cantata will bo again repoated this ovoning, ond doubtless tho defects incident to nn initial produc tion will bo found to havo disappeared.

SUPREME COURT.-Civil Sittings.

(Before His Honor Mr Justice Ward.) I'tt'l te Ngaluil'U V Ihe Mercer Road Board. —Claim £-00 for trespass. At thoeloso of the evi dence reported in our issue of yesterday. Mr Thco. Cooper, for Ihe defendant Hoard, rpiotcd numerous decisions In support of his contention that a right- of way through a property remained as loin: as any of the property remained unwashed away by tlio adjoining river. Tho fact of that part used for years a. a ricrht of way beinf. do. t loved did not do away with tho public right to uso the remaining portion of tho land for a footpath. Mr Tvldon spoke for the plaintiff at some length, flnishliiK' up by offering sonic of iho land for a road if compensation was paid. His Honor ruled that tho plaintiff must bo nonsuited. Sho had fenced in tho river bank, nnd the Crown Brant must bo subject to tho right of way, and it the river washed away a port ion of the. road, the public were entitled to a oono-ponduipr portion of the niljoiiiiiiK lund. His Honor did not think this was a ease in which costs should be allowed. The jury were then discharged from further a'tendance.

THIS DAY.

Will iiun Stevenson and another v. 1 .old Brown. This was an action foriuci.iinicnt, that a certain eonvevanco be declared subject to certain trusts. Mr Tli.'O Cooper, for tho nlninllu. divided his case into four heads, which he submitted were the vital points thereof. 1. Whether tlio will in ini_.stimieri.iled n I runt : '.'. Whether it was a trust (hat was capable of boim. created by the Court: :i. Whether Wilson whs aUVctod by the trust: 1. Whether Osmnnil wnsalt'ccted by tho trust. _ilr Alexander appeared for the defend ant Osmund. ThcophlhiK Iviusllni;, land l'ettis- Inil', produced plans of the land in dispute It appear oil from Ihe evidence that, tho lieu' atlaw. C. 11. .1. Hill, conveyed over the properly to li.o.vii to be administered in accordance with the will, thoplainlil.s ease holm, that Brown bud unlawfully sold certain allotments to Wil son, against the provisions of tho will. At nnooYlock, His Honor adjourned the caso till Thursday week, for lct.nl iirKuiiirnt.

The case of Hovel Tciioulliot v. Alfred Great bach Hover, is coming nn for bearing tomorrow

THE PREMIER AND THE TOTALISATOR.

At tho meeting of 'ho Auckland Prosbytery to day, the Rev. Mr Monro road tho follow ing copy of a lottor which ho had sent to Sir Robert Stout : " Romuora, Auckland, 12th March, ISS7. Sir R. Stout, Premior of Now Zealand. Dear Sir,—l havo tho honour to forward tho following resolution which waa unanimously passed at tho last General Assembly in Wellington: "That in tho honest belief that tho sanction which has boon given to gambling through tl.o legalising of tho totalisator nan iluvi! i -d tho spirit of gambling and lhsiat.i-,1 practice of it, thoy ro.olvo to i..i.i ■ -~ tho Government a respectful lo.neu stranco against tho continuantu of such sanction." In forwarding tbi- reso lution I would bog to urge tho great damage to tho youth of the colony through tho rapidly growing practice of gambling. It was tlio opinion of niembors of tho Assembly who had evidently oxarained tho subject that tho legalising of tho totaiisa.nr has dovolopod instead of de creased tho spirit of gambling. Tho scenes witnessed upon many of our race courses as frequently described by tho news papers, show tho urgent need for tho Go vornment taking immediate step, to abolish tho totalizator, and to uso their influence to check tho growth of gambling which must necossarily show itself byo an-byo in tho commercial and social life of tho colony. Trusting you will givo tho subject your earnest attention, I am, Sec, G. B. Munro." The following was the Premier's reply : " Rev. and dear sir, 1 am in receipt of your lottcr of the 12th Morch, convey ing to me a resolution unanimously paseod at the late meeting of tho General As embly of your church in Wellington against legalising the totalisator, I am at one with tho Assembly as to tho need of discouraging gambling in every possible way. I regret to say, however, that last session an amondment was passed against tho vigorous protests of mysblf and other members allowing sweeps at races, nnd until publio opinion is thoroughly aroused as to the evils ari.ing from gambling, I am afraid it ia hope less to expect Parliament to inter fere. So long as tho leading people of all our communities encourage horse racing and gambling by means of tho totalisator, it is hopeless to export from Parliament anything but a reflex of public opinion. I would suggest that tho proper way to adopt to got gambling losEenod ill this colony is for thoso who oppose to to create a public opinion on tho subject. Wore this doco, legislation might be attempted, but until that is dono, 1 am afraid it will bo hopeless to expect any remedy from Par liament. I need only add that any efforts to put down gambling would receive my heaity support. Yours vory truly, Robert Stout."_T_g Presbytery expressed ploasure at, tho tenor of tho Premier's reply, and his courtesy in answering Mr Monro so promptly,

THE PRESBYTERIANS AND THE NEW HEBRIDES QUES TION.

The Rev. G. B. Mo.ro, os Moderator of the Genoral Assembly, recently wrote to Sir Robert Stout on tho matter of the Now Hobrides, and tho dread felt by tho church of French annexation. At tho mooting of tho Auckland Presbytery to-day, a letter was received from Sir R. Stout, which stated "I need not say that I exceedingly regret the position into which the Now Hebridos question has drifted. I do not sea any chaneo of the Islands being annexed to Britain, •and the eolation, I think possible now, would bo for tho English Go vernment to try and obtain those islands that havo been the scat of tho Pro testant English missions, leaving to Franco the other islands. The way in which British statesmen have, during tho last 50 yoars, allowed tho Paciiio Islands question to drift, Ehews that it is hopeless now to expect any vigorous action without provoking hostilities from Europoan Powers."

To the Editor : Sir,—ln laat night's isßuo there appears a letter from a Mr Browne, of Mount ISdeD, Bnggesting that Mount Eden and Eden Terrace Road Dietricta got a water eupply on their own account, instead of drawing from tho city. Will that gen tleman kindly let us know tho source of the proposed nevi water eupply and probable cost, as no doubt tho inhabitants of tbo dis-' tricta reforred to will be happy to receive the information. —Yours, &c , Adam Porter.

To tho Editor : Sir,—Thero is a local in this morning's " Herald" that Sir R. Stout is looking about for his subjeat of address to-morrow night. Would you allow mo to r-uggeat retrenchment, viz., IJovMf'_ auliry, Ministers' dwellings, numertlWlt penses generally, all high salaries reducoSyl and reduction of taxes, otc. ? Thia, sir, would be a popular subject.—l am, etc, Depression.

CABLEGRAMS.

RUSSIA AND BULGARIA

Revolutionary Movements.

THE CZAR AND THE PANSLAVISTS

(special cahle') London, April 4. NT. Katko.l-, tho editor of tho " Moscow Gazotto," has been officially rebuked for bis violent anti German articles. The valuo of this reprimand is shown by the fact that ho has Binco beon invited to tho Guar's tablo,

[HEUTiU.'fct TELEGRAM.]

London, April 3. Throo hundred Russian officers, sus pocted of Nihilism, havo been arrested, and 20 shot. Tbe spirit of revolution is activo and widespread. A large number of officors wero implicated in the last attempt on tho Czar.

(SPECIAL MESSAGE,)

London, April 3. Daring attoibpts to murder prominent Bulgarian'officials aro reported, Russian agents are susp'octed.

DYNAMITE IN SPAIN.

Attcu.i.t to Itlow mi the Chamber of Deputies.

(SPECIAL MESSAGE.)

London, April 4. A premature ultompt to blow uptho Spanish Chamber of Deputies with dynamite has beon discovered.

THE IMPERIAL CONFERENCE.

Subjects to be Discussed

(Sr-ECIAL CABLE.)

London, April 4 Tub dolegatos generally discussed the Conference progron_.no on Friday. Vic toria proposed united action regarding tho recidivistes and f-cvv Hebrides. Sir Patrick Jennings, on behalf ot Now South Wnlep, objected to any thing binding until tho Imperial viows havo boon divulged, and tho othor colonies concurred in hi. views. Lord Salisbury will delivor tho opening addroen, and one dolegnte from each colony will bo allowed five minutes in which to respond. Sir Henry Holland will also dolivor on address of welcome, giving precedence to each colony according to its ago. Do'onco will bo tho tiret subject taken into consideration.

The " Timos''to day states that the fol lowing subjects will bo discussed at tho Imperial Conference : — Defoncoa _of Australian ports, and of Torres Straits ; oroction of coaling stotions, laying of cublo betweon Great Britain and tho colonies, subsidising of cablo companies, protection of harbours, supplying armed cruisers in tho Pacific, increase of colonial noval squadron, creating facilities for ofiicorß of tho Imporiul army, relations with foreign Powers and thoir connection with England and the colonios, pos'al ordinances, provision of greater facilities for saving" life at son, rati Ilea'ion of olo nial judgments, marriage with deccasod wifo's sister, and simultaneous corsua of the entire Empire.

(.SPECIAL MESSAOK.)

New Guinea Exploring Ex pedition.

Loniion, April 4.—Boron MucLay intends to load a frosh scientific exploring expedi tion into Now Guinea. Heavy Banking Losses. It is stated that tho Adolaido Board of tho Bank of South Australia estimate tho possiblo losßea at £83,000, while tho directors consider tboy will roach ten thousand moro.

(KEUT-fR'S TELEGRAM.)

The Italian Ministry.

I.oM-iiN, April 3.— Tho Doprotis Cabinot has b. n remodelled as follows :—Count l.ubilHti. resigns tho appointment of Minis ter of Foreign Affairs, which oflico will bo h ..I by Signor Doprotis. Signor Crispi •-. ill . ucccod Signor Doprotis as Minister of .bo Interior. Signor Zanarduli has been appointed Minister of Justice, and Siguor Vulo Minister of War. C..i-iii.crcial News. London, April 3.—Tho whoat market shows a weaker tendency. Australian cargoes on tho spot are Gd below last quo lotions. - Iho Continental market is in active. In London .'Us lid is offered for cargoes for prompt shipment.

At the wool salea 105,000 bales wero cata logued, of which 7,000 were withdrawn. Tho French demand is increasing, tho Gorman domand is reserved, and the American nominal. Last weok'a improve ment in prices ha. beon sustained. The annual report of tho Bank of South Australia was unanimously adopted. The directors firmly believe that there will be no further necessity to withdraw any monoy from tbo reserve fund International Cable Rates Sydney, this day.—-It ia understood that the Postmaster General is favourable to a reduction being made by New South Wales and Victoria on press messages to and from New Zealand so as to assimilate tho charges of the three colonios interested,

ACCIDENT AT POROTORAU TUNNEL.

Another instonco of man's duty to his brother man under circumstances of trial and difficulty came under notice yesterday. A labourer named Farley, while at work on tho Trunk Railway near Porotorau, met with a serious accident, by which ho broke his leg. Twenty-six of his mates in relays carried !him 47 milos through creeks, ovor mountains, boulders, and bash, until thoy reached: the nearest railway station, when he was sent on to tho Auckland Hospital, where ho io now doing, woll. These men lobo four days' wogos, but they must feel well ropaid, knowing thoy havo dono their duty tea suffering brothor.

THE WELLINGTON CRICKET TEAM.

The Men Chosen to Whin Auck land.

(BY TELEGRAPH -OWN correspondent )

W r Ellington, tbis day. The cricket team to ropresent Wellington ogainst Auckland and Hawke's Bay has now been finally selected. It was not so much a matter of picking a team aa of get ting together o set of good players who could get away. The team, as it now stands, is certainly not a strictly repre sentative one. It is, nevertheless, a very good one, arid great credit i. duo to the Match Committeo for the manner in which they have managed this difficult business. Dr. Collins and A, Blacklock cannot got away, and thoir places are tn bo taken by Judd, a country player.and Chap man, a promising young fellow bolonging to a city club. Salmon, who is at present in Napier, will bo captain of the team in the Hawke's Bay match, the selection having been mode on account of hiß knowledge of the Hawke's Bay men. Either ho or Burnes will be captain at Auckland. Tho majority of the team leave by steamer on Tuesday night. The rest go overland via Palmer ston of and Woodvillo early on Thursday. Tho following citicism of the Wellington players will be of interest to your readers : Blacklock, B ; Splendid bat, good field and representative player, Burnee, G : Fine bat, good long field, chaDge bowler. Chapman, J. E. : Wicket-keeper, steady bat.

Dryden, C, H, : Best bowler in Welling ton, hard hitting bat, and excellent field. i

Gore, A. H. : Fine bowler; good, eteady bat, as. likely as any man in the team to score heavily, Fiells well anywhere. Heenan, G. C. : Good field at point; fine bat; rather nervods. Judd : Good all-round man, one of our best fields.

Morice : Good bat, fair field, and change bowler.

McGirr : Steady bowlor, hard hitter. Salmon, W. J-: Old representative player, good bat and fair field. Wilsotf, E. Duret: Fair bat and fair field, The weak man of the team.

AUCKLAND RACING CLUB AUTUMN MEETING.

This Morning's Training Notos.

Tub weather this morniDg was anything but inviting to mako a vir.it to the course, o south-west gale accompanied by sharp showers greeting tho early riser. .Never theless, a capital morning's work waa got through. Just at break of day* Chaafo omorged frum tlio boxes with Tur nuoiso and Derringer* the pair accomplish ing two circuits oh the plough at a good pace, both moving well, the latterespecially. Cannon went tvViee round. by himself. Wapiti, had Catesby and Britannia for coh.nanions for onco round on the grass, the ' trio tripping along very freely, while Too Soon and Queenio stopped over .hreo-quartors of a milo on (ho grass in a taking mannor. Spado Guinea, Teddy Yuillo, and Rocket put in a good twice round, all moving froely. Coral, who shows a good deal of iihprovoment, put in thieo circuits, in company with another jumper, the former finishing very strong. letor Osbeck had Weasel for a companion in tho last part of a two-mile gullop The former is very woll and has a lot of pace. Lady Norah and British Lion went twice round (in company) at a good pace, tho filly apparently being abba to do what she liked with tho eon of Loqynus. Cindorella ran once round on tho gra_ in grand form, and Libeller and Maoriland fioished up the morning's work by going once round on tho plough, the littlo eon of Traducor revel ling in hia work. Friendship was out, but did not work. Silence anived by the Tarawera last night to fulfil his ongagemonts at the moot ing.

Tho following handicaps have been de clared by Mr Evott: —

Tradesmen's Handicap, 1 mile 210 yards.—Cinderella, Oat 51b ; Rocket, 9st 3 b • Lady Norah, Bst 21b ; Wapiti, Sat; Victory, 7st 131b ; Teddy - utile, 7«t 121b ; Pretender, 7st 71b ; Libeller, 7st 61b ; Maotiland, 7«t 31b; Ma Petite Fillo, Cat l_lb ; Okato, 6_t J 21b ; Tamora, list 101b ; Howitzer, Ost 71b ; Bangalore, Gat 71b; Empress, 0:-t; Loorina, 6st; Brown Koso, 6st. _ , , HVRDLK Race, 2.J miles.— Peter Osbeck, list 101b ; Volcano, list 01b ; Omata, list 31b; Magnesia, 10.t 51b; Coral, 9st 41b ; Zip, Ost ; Armourer, 9st; Darkio, Ost.

The Island Bay Racing Club (Wellington) is to bo wound up. 4t a special meeting of the shareholders last night it was ro solved to tell tho as-ets at such prices aa will cover tho liabilities of tho Coulpauy. It is understood that a new company is being formed to take over the property and continue tho racing. Acceptances and general entries for the Takapuna Jockey Club Autumn Meeting close on Thursday night, with Mr R. W. Wynyartl. Rcutt-r cablea tho following qiio'.ntioue for the Sydooy Gold Cup:-4 to 1 against Nelson, lOtol Mozart, 11 to 1 Jewel and Stanloy, 12 to 1 Tom Brown and Myall King. The following aro tho horses loft in the at. L-gor, run on Saturday next -.—Off Chanco, Pensive gelding, Trident, Loafer, and KiDgti-h.

THE FRENCH WARSHIP.

The Officers Pleased With Auckland.

At the reception on board tho Fiench man of-war Duquosno, tho guests wore recoived by tho Admiral, supported by Mr and Mrß D B. Cruicksbank. A very pleasant after noon was spent iv inspecting tho vossel, which was beautifully decorated. Danc ing was also heartily engaged in by the youngor members of tho company, and the olficors, who wero most attentive to visitors. When bidding his guests farewell at tho gangway, Admiral Marcq do Saint Hilairo, Commandantin Chief ot the French Navy in the Pacific, declared himself vory highly ploased with his visit to Auckland. lie spoke most cordially of his reception by the citizens, and especially of iho attontion paid to him by Mr D. B. Cruickshank, the French Vico-Consu'. Theso eeotimerte he has, wo loam, also convoyed to the Consul at Wellington, Our correspondent thero wires: —

" Compto do JoufTroy Dobbins, French Consul at Wellington, has received a cora -nuuication from Admiral St. Hilairo stating that ho has been delighted with the recep tion he has mot at Auckland. Ho spoaks most warmly of tho colony and people, and says that every attention las been paid to him and his staff by tho olliciala aud citizens and by Mr Cruicksbank, Vice-Consul for Franco at Auckland."

ANNEXATION OF KERMADEO ISLANDS.

(BY TELEGRAM!-OWH GORBE.srONDENT.)

Wellington, thia day. Formal letters patent under the Great Seal, authorising tho annexation of tho Kermadoc Islonds by Now Zealand, roached the hands of tho Government by the San Francisco mail. Tho document was care fully packed in a box made of rod Russian leather, somewhat resembling a jewel box in shape. As soon as Parliament passes a bill authorising tho annexation of tho group the necessary proclamation will bo issued.

THE OLD STORY.

A Rascal's Excuse Tor His Rascality.

[BY TELEGRAPH —OWN CO T-RESrONDENT.]

Wellington, this day. William Henry Crossby, known in Auck land, who was convicted of larceny at the Supremo Court here, made a statement to the effect that hie life had been made a terror to him by the pereecutions of the police, and that be haci even had hia life attempted. He said that all chance., of his earning an honest living, both in Auck land and Napior, had been prevented by the police, who poisoned people's minds against him and dogged him about every where Afterwards, however, it camo out that tbero were about fourtoon previous convictions against tho accused, two of which ho admitted committing. Upon this case tho Chief Justice expressed the opinion that_ the powers of justices and resident magistrates to deal summarily in cases of larceny should be used very carefully in deed. The present was a flagrant caeo of the abuae of such power; thero was tho accused, «ho in 1870 received a Bmall sentence from tho Supremo Court for forgory and uttering, subsequently within a short time of bis roleaeo from gaol, get ting serios of sumainry convictions both at Auckland, tho Thamos, and in Wellington. His opinion was that to sentonco porsonß of this man's character to short terms of im prisonment simply induced crimes.

R AILWAY REFORM

The Napier Chamber Consider it Hopeless.

(IIV TIiLEtJRAI'H—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Napier, this day. The sub-committee- of tho Chamber of Commorco reports as follows :-" Hav ing exhaustively examined the minutes of the Chamber as well as tho correspondence wo ore reluctantly compelled to conclude that the fre quent communications to Eoveral Minis ters have resulted in so little good that they feel it hopeless to further represent the comploints of the Chamber. For tho pas. four years, there have been pro mises ignored and communications not replied to, and we can arrive at no other conclusion than that the Minieter of Publio Works it not the ruling power at the head of the Railway Deparment. Thefollowmg aresubjects sospcially ignored —Reduction of freights on other timber for export than white pine, abolution of loading and unloading charges on wool at railway stations ; differential railway rates and railway tariff reform • re sheep carriage, etc. ; return ticket to all stations ; removal of Napier goodshed, Tho conclusion your sub committee have arrived at is that until tho railways of tho colony are under the control of a non-political board of practical men, ac in Victoria, there is no hope of their being economically aud profitably worked."

ARRIVAL OF THE PREMIER.

Deputations.

Tins Premier (Sir Robert Stout) nnd Lady Stout, accompanied by Dr. McGregor (In spector General of Hospitals), and Mr Leckie (Premier's private socretai-yl.drrived in town last night by lato Waifcato train from tho tia'.to country, and at once drove Off to Cai-ns's Star Hotel; whoro they stay during . their 'present visit It was generally, expected,, that the Premier and his parly would arrive by tbe afternoon train.. . Under impres sion, Superintendent Thomson was, in attendance at the Hallway Staii.n, while Mr Moat, M.H.K., proceed d to Newmarket to meet the distinguish, d visitors. As matters turned out, bowoyer, both gentlemen, ob well ns in_ny others, woro disappointed when tho*rain anived with no Premier on board.

TEMPERANCE REPRESENTATIVES.

Tbo representatives of tho various Tem perance organisations of Auckland inter viewed tho Premier at tho Star Hotel this morning. They were introduced by Sir William Fox (representing the New Zealand Alliance) as follows:—Rev._ C. Worboys, Gospel Tepiperance Mission ; Mr C, G. Hill, Independent Order of Good Tomplars ; Mr E, Tremain, Auckland Total Abstinence Society ; Mr 0, B. lillsy, Temperance in Schools Committoe, and editor of tho "Leader;" Mr W. J. Macdormott, Band of Hope Union ; aidMesirs P. Joune ar.d H. Rotherham, Kechabites. Sir William Fox said they had called upon the Premior for tho purpose of welcoming him to Auckland, and having expressed their gratification at seeing him hero in connection with tho temperance cause, they wished to hand to him the draft of tho a-dross to be presented to him to-night at tha City Hall. Sir William proceeded to refer to tha lecture to bo given by the Premier, and men tioned the fact that tbe. Government had sanctioned their application for the in'reduction of the temperance text book for the junior classes in the public schools. They had al ; o succeeded in inducing the Government to ossent to tho book, and thoy had now only to obtain the co-operation of the committees and teachers. He hoped to • night that thoy would have a good many teachers present at tho conversazione, and ho hoped Sir Bobort .vould say a few words that might influence them in the desired direction. (Sir Robert made a noto of the request). They would be glad also if he would indicate his opinions on tome of tho other points of the tempsranoe question from a legisla tive point of view. Thore was also one other subject in which there was the greatest interest here at tho present time. He referred to tbe women's franchise question. They bad heard from the newspapers that the Govern ment proposed to introduce a measure dealing with this matter, and they would be glad to hear Sir Robert's views respect ing the proposed reform. The Premior said ho voted for the women's franchise in 1877, and Sir William Fox added that he also had the pleasure of voting for the I measure in that year. This terminated the interview, and the deputation withdrew. LOAN FO-t WAIKATO HOSPITAL.

Mr VV. A. Graham (Mayor of Hamilton) waited upon tho Premier at 11 o'clock this morning, for tho purpose of urging the claims to Government assistance in the erection of a hospital for the counties of Waikoto, Waipa, Piako, and Boglan, which, along with the borougha of Cam bridge arid Hamilton, have been formed into a separate distiict under tho provisions of tho Hospitals and Charitable Aid Act. Ho pointed out tho great necoaeity that existed in the Waikato for a hospital, seeing that all accident cases at preßent had to enduro a twelve-boura' journey by rail to Auckland. Application had been mado to tho Minister of Lands for a piece of land which would prove highly convenient as a site for a hospital, and a surgeon had been advertised for. There was already a build ing in existence in Hamilton which waa supposed to bo a hospital, but it was in the occupation of the police.and they could not be got rid of. Tho Hospital Board therefore applied for a grant of £1,000 to ward the erection cf a suitable district hospital. The Premier replied that the Government had at their service no available funda from which such a grant could be made. He sug gested, however, that the Boardehould apply for a loan of tho required amount, to be lent at a low rate of interest, and to be repayable in the courEO of ten or fifteen years. If that wero dono ho wou'd do hia beet in sup port of the application. Mr Graham having urged tho need of immediate temporary provision for accident cases, and in thi. connection mentioned the caee of a man with n fractured leg who had to be brought all tho way to Auckland tho other diy, The Premier recognised tbo urgency of this matter, aud recommended that some temporary arrangoment ehould be effacted with Iho Auckland Hospital Board. For instntico, convalescent cases could bo cent up to the Waikato, and somo expedient adopted at the eamo timo for local treat ment of surgical coses. After somo further conversation, Mr Graham thanked the Premier and with drew. MOUNT EDEN RIFLE RANGE, Tho Volunteers will be intereeted to learn that Professor Aldis has made on ap pointment with the Premier to interview him to morrow for the purpose of urging the Govornment to close the present Rifle Bango nt Mount Eden.and to open another in somo more removed or secluded position. It will bo as woll that both aides of this debatable subject should be presented to Sir Robert Stout's notice. THE PREMIER'S MOVEMENTS. During hia stay in Auckland, which will extend only to Thursday next, the Premier will bo chiefly confined to Departmental work, of which ho has quite an accumula tion to get through ere he takea his depar ture. Tho only public arrangements he has made are those for addresses he has promised to deliver—one to-night at the temperance celebration in tho City Hal", and tho other of a political character in tho Young Men's Christian Association Rooms to-moirow night under the auspices of the Radical Reform League. In neither caeo has the Premier sketched out any par ticular subject or plan of topics upon which to discourse.

On Thursday ho intends leaving for Wel lington, either by tbo Union Company's steamer down tho ISast Coast, or by the Northern Company's s.s. Gairioch to Wai tara. That point will bo determined by the weather.

SUICIDE AT CISBORNE.

(liV TELEGRAPH —OWN CORRESPONDENT).

Gisborne, thia day. Mr Robert Fostkr committed suicide thia morning by shooting himself. Ho had been eighteen months chief assistant at Adair's drap ry store, Gisborne, and waa previously ten years at Marshall's, at the Thames. He was a Freemason, aged forty years, and an industrious, sober, intelligent, and honourable man.

A WELL MERITED SENTENCE.

Brutal Treatment of a Seven year-old Boy.

(ISY TELKGKArII—OWN CORRESPONDENT)

Napier, this day. A man named Taylor, a fisherman, has been fined £10, and costs £3 9s, cr four months' hard labour, for cruelly beating hia sou, aged seven and a-half years. Last week the accused and hia boy were out in the country selling fish. The boy was driving the cart, when it capsized. Neither was hurt, Taylor righted tho cart and picked up the fish scattered on the road, and having put things to rights, sot to work and beat the boy over the head and back with the butt ot the whip. Same Maoris, witnessing tbo assault, threatened to fetch the police, and Taylor drove off. The boy was brought into town and conveyed to the Hospital, frightfully bruised on the head, face and back.

To the Editorj: Sir,—lt isastor-isbing the amount of—well, nonsense—some persons will write and make themselves believe on the subject of local taxation. Mr Campbell in his letter appearing in your issue of laat evening, "writes our City Council have in creased our taxes fifty-fold 1!" Now, the present rates are two shillings and one half penny in the pound ; they were never leas than one shilling and sixpence without wator, roadß, asphalt paths, free library, oaths, abattoirs. Sea. Thoy were at one timo 2a 3_d in tho pound, and they are as low and in many instances lower (having regard to other charges-for water, &o.)aa any town in the Colony, yet wo are told they have been increased fifty-fold.—Yonra, o-c,, Light.

OPERA HOUSE-"Betsy."

Is tho production of thiß farcical eottH-dj. last night tho public aj:e introduced to an old favourite tinder a how na_de _(ud thdto propitious auspices. That Is to cay; we arp how presented with the only authdrisetl vsrsiein of F. C. Burnond's tJHtea-kiiii comedy ..hich & |e» yedrs t ago cop. vulsed London and the provinces with irrepressible laughtor, and which, in tjje form of a garblod, American, version, majijg i premature appparnncq in t.he< oolonieg about the, pariio time., under tho title of "Biby." By this . name the Lingards played jt with great success. But the present vert-ion is in so many respects cliff-rent, from the pirated one that j_ comes upon one almost with tho freshness of an entirely new work. We . shall nut attempt to .sketch the, plot, for of that there is, \a the . true senpe . .of the tern-.noth'ng at all. It is a mere con catenation of ludicrous situations, rendered all the more divert ing by broadly-humorous dialogue and excruciatingly funny action, Thore is not a serious or dull passage in it, and if the public wish to have their risible faculties tickled to the extent of hearty and euste.ined laughter, " Betsy " will assuredly perform that eervico for them. Those who are acquainted with the style affected by the genial editor of ''Punch" will be at no loss to divine , how the feat is accomplished. To those who are yet in the dark upon this point we stronely recommend, an immediate visit to the Opera Houso. It will suffice for us tO say that tho fun of the comedy, or ratner farce, centres round the only and spoilt son of a worthy country couple treated aDd coddled, like Cis Far ringdon in "Tho Magistrate," as a mere child, aud that tho play derives its name from a jealous housemaid who holds the youngster in lerrortiil by means of a pro rniso of marrioge scrawled upon the back Of a photograph. The other personages of tho play consist of at. amorous Irish captain and his gujhing, unsuspicious wife ; a pre tended tutor, who imposes upon tho good naturo of the simple-minded elderly couplo already referred to, and affords bis pupil every latitude for amusements a fast associate in youthfal pranks s and a number of young ladies, with whom the young men and tho captain carry on a desperate flirtation. As Mr Birkett, tbo father of the ingenious young man, who is beloved by the impressionable soubrette, Mr G. W. Anson is tho life and soul of thb piece. His f ucccss as " Tbo Magistrate " is flilly equalled by tho "hit" he makes in " Betsy." His impersonation ia thoroughly complete of its kind, and is a first - class specimen of low - comedy acting. Miss Annto Taylor, as Mrs Birkott, divides the honours with Mr Anson, for, like him, she plays to the life the role assigned her, Mr D'Arcy Stanfield is again the ;_...._ premier of tho cast, and his portrai ture o_ "Dolly," the hope of tho family, left very little to be desired. An other character sketch of the first promin ence in Mr Alfred Maltby's delineation of the ridicuously incapable tutor, Mr Daw son. Tho playbill states that the con ception of this part was in theatrical par lance " created " by Mr Maltby and played by him for over 400 nights at the London Criterion. Those who see the portraiture will hardly doubt the statement. It is a very clover study. In the title r6lo Miss Beatrice Lyeter, a vivacioua little actress, makes a distinct and very palpable hit, while Miss Agnes Thomas in the Bruall part of Mrs McMamw acquits herself fairly well. _ Low comedy, however, is out ot her line, as it is in more marked measure beyond Mr Titheradge's forte. This gentleman's impersonation of Captain McManuu could be nothing moro than a sucees tl'estime. The character is altogether unsuited to him. There ia nothing special about the minor rdles to in vite remark, and as for the manner in which the piece is staged, that reveals the habitual caro and attention to detail of tha management. " Betsy " should run easily the entire week and command big "houses."

POLICE COURT.-This Day.

(Before Meeara W. Duncan and Captain

Corbett, J.P.'e.) Drunkenness.—A woman waa fined 5s and coats, or 24 hours, for this offence.—Arthur Kirk was fined £5 and costs, or 14 days' hard labour, for beinß an habitual drunkard.

Breach ok Railway Regulations.— William Morrow was charged with having committed a breach of the Railway Regula tions by driving ovor tho railway crossing at Pukekohe when tho train wob approach ing.—Mr Devore appeared for tho Bailway Department, and Mr Mahony, who was present on behalf of the defendant, pleaded guilty under extenuating circumstances. Ho stated that hia client waa too deaf to hear the train approaching, and also thai thero was no notice put np to look out for tho train. He asked that only a nominal penaltyshould bo inflicted.—Mr Devore said that ho would only press for a moderate penalty; be would suggest a penalty of 20s and coats.—Mr Mahony suggested Is and coats.—Tho Bonch inflicted a fine of 10aand costs.—Robert Barlow waa charged with getting off a train whilst in motion at Mercer.—The defendant did not appear.— Mr Devore appeared for the prosecution.— John Lowe, guard on the Auckland-Te Awamutu train, deposed to witnessing the offonce.—Mr Devore pressed for a more severe penalty than had been hitherto in flicted.—Tho Bench referred to the facti that Mr Tjßher had lost hia life at Drury by this practice, and inflicted a fine of 40s ana coats.— George F. Barton pleaded guilty to getting off tbe train while in motion at Te Awamutu. —He stated that the train waa scarcely in motion.—The Bench inflicted a fine of 40a and costs.

VOLUNTEER INTELLIGENCE.

VICTORIA RIFLES,

ROYAIi DRAGOONS. The Auckland Royal Dragoona paraded at.' the Harp of Erin on Saturday laat at 3.30. Owing to bad weather, there waa not a fall muster. The troop marched to Epsom, and there had a lengthened drill in skirmishing and such other movements as will be neces sary in camp. At tbe conclusion of the parade tho orders woro read, making the following appointments : - Acting Troop- Sergeant-Msjor, Sergeant Evans ; Quarter.-.. master Sergeant, Sergeant i~ilark ; Sergeant. Corporal Hunt; Corporal, ,Trooper Doyle, Ordera were also road respecting the Easter encampment, and every man present (twenty-five) signed hia name to attend camp under a penalty. It was also agreed that every member of the troop, except those who can produce a medical certificate or a discharge, who does not attend the parade on Good Friday morning shall be fined to the utmost limit, which will amount to £4 per man. The troop are to parade on Friday at such an hour as will be named in district ordera, with head ropes, havreaacks, blankets, and auoh clear ing appurtenancea as will be required in camp. Arrangements have beea made for a supply of good rations and forage for men and horses. . .. :,

Tho sixth competition for the oup pre sented by Mr Jickoll to this Company took place on Saturday last at the Mount Eden Rifle Range, Lieut. Lee being in command, The following are the scores :—

Sergeant Rose being tbo highest scorer who had not proviously won a competition in the series, was the winner, with 69 points.

THAMES NOTES.

(BY TELEGRAPH—OWN CORRESPONDENT )

Thames, thia day. The expenditure of the Hospital for the year ending 31st March amounted to £2554.

James Irvine, who was injured on Hiku tair section of railway contract, is progress ing very favourably at the hospital. Mr Symington, owner of tho Royal Hotel, died last night from inflammation of the lungs. The funeral takea place to-morrow afternoon. Deceased waa a Freemason.

At tho Police Court to day, George Lacy was remanded until Thursday on a charge of unlawfully stabbing Alfred Butler at Tairua. Martin Levy haß? also been re manded until Thursday on five charges of larceny at Waiomo. ' ~'.-'..'-.'■■

__ffi AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 1887



Vol. Handloy.. Sorgt. Rose .. Corpl. Skinner Corpl. Fairs .. VoL Sch_ppo .. Ool.-Sergt, McLecd.. Vol Rout Lieut. Lee .. Vol. Coomer .. Vol. Sexton . Vol. SlnipaOD.. Vol. Andeison Vo'.Saviil-. .. Vol. Guthrie ..

200_-da. 3 31 st; SJ 25 28 24 29 21 24 26 26 m 1.3 12

3C0yds.51 25 13 K 17 20 17 22 21 10 10 16 15 6 1

SDOydi 20 20 19 20 14 19 8 15 21 13 4 11 8 2

Is. Tl. 7( 6! ei tz 6'. a 51 5; 5i 4! If 41 21 IE



_. —I _ . __ A "Fair Play" writei to utate that the I Mcket match Richmond v. Albert w. a won ____?%he latter team. .; ■.



JUBttLEE.UMIffiF_I_L.AS! JUBILEE UMBEKLLASj ._ No iv Feature in Umbrellas with M LinlrtlioVHandle, SworcL Crown, anil H.I. hM The only Now .Stylo of J Unilm-rW in Auckland, forming n.hand- " sr-iicii.esent. for a lady, for 20s only. -«_q L ACE ' CURTADN SICE CURTAINS! A NcwfStylc of.Laco Curtains. Al- UlChOth eho newcstlof the newest designs, r_M v.ai>cs_.ld nt.thirty-flvo per cent leas p? tha iVthc»r value. , J-' -gLANKETS! BLANKETS!__, « I Hirers ot Blankctts should comoand see -"_< . our window. Noto the quality and tho £q 1 i.c/Vufed Prices. "~J CLOTHING! CLOT m NG o ! J Tr V the Great Clearance Sale before pur- rj. lor t voursclf or sons. M« 1 -t.TELYETEENS ! VELVETEENS ! ''g ' - V VELVETEENS. « • _ Onc_Sl_illing per yard. _*>.._. 1"..r-.\-TI,I!S FUR CAPES. RUB r-sjj a .M WRAPS. CASHMERE CLOAKS, g : Waterproof cloaks, lp\ ■Now b-inir offered in tbo Show Room. qJ§ ;L ACE CURTAINS I e ,_,-__„, , 'Lace Curtains of the ahost Choice Do- - « signs. Just brought forward, and will Q .be ofTercd during the/Great Clearance </} !___. , p__|§ PLUSHES! PLUSHES! PLUSHES I z2 All shades, at 2s/lld per yard; lm- |__| mensely reduced in price. /-IOLOUREB KID GLOVES, BLACK '__■_ l_v KID GLOVES, 4-buttoncd, at Is 6d HH per pair—not one-quarter their value." JjQ COUNTERPANES. QUILTS, / TOWELS, TOWELLING, SHEET- tT> INGS, TICKINGS, in fact, overy article £•__[ in tho Manchester Department, at cnor- moasly Rccfuced Prices. y_< HOSIERY! HOSIERY! HOSIERY; Ladies and Children's Hosiery, all KJ reducod in prico. Yt\ /GENUINE REDUCTIONS C._j IN EVERY ARTICLE. , ' ' AT T. SHORT'S gIrEAT SALE, Br Order of the Executors, i ■■_.. , : I SPECIAL * PRICKS, TO MEET THE TIMES. MILNE AND CHOYCE Beg to Notify that they have made T ARGB pERMAHENT "O EDUCTIONS In the Prlcee of their LAUIES' ANP CHILDREN'S UNDER CLOTHING AND BABY LINEN, These Goods are Imported from the Largest and Most Reliable Manutsctnreia In London, and aie guaranteed to bo Well made and of Good Quality. An theso Goods are now Marked at so Small i P loflt, larger Quantities are being Impte. In anticipation of a Greatly Increased Sale. INSPECTION IS INVITED. ____ILNB AND ChOYCB, QUEEN AND W«_____B__r_r BTBEETB OB" REMOVAL, W. B. MELDRUM, TAILOR, Wishes to inform his numerous friends end cus tomers that he has REMOVED to those more Central anfi Spacious Premises adjoining W, Norrle, SHORTLAND-STREET, And begs to solicit a continuance Ot put patron age by all old and new patrons. Surra fbom £3 15a, All Work done in First class Stylt. N.B. -In .tendance W__D.i-__._T and BATUX. day Nights till 90-look. FTIHIRTY THOUSAND YARDS T\RBSS ILTATBRIAL, To be sold AT GREATLY REDUCED PRICES. H. ATKINS HAS MARTTTCI- DOWN THE PRICES or SUMMER DRESS MATERIAL 20 10 30 FIB (Ml. There It a Splendid Stool, (till left to select from, and thetßednctlons will be found to be Genuine. BLACK and COLOURED SILKS will also be sold at a Reduction In Price. A Few Pieces of Magnlfloent Quality BLACK 1 SILKS, to be sold at English Prices. ! An Overstock of UMBRELLAS. SUNSHADES, etc, to be sold Cheap. The Balance of CARPETS (about 1,600 yards' to be cleared at cost and under. A Largo Stook of LONG CURTAINS. TABLE LINEN. SHEETING. BLANKETS, QUILTS, and MANCHESTER GOODa Best value In Auokland. A Splendid Stook of X AIAPOI CLOTHING, In Boys', Youths', and Men's; Splendid Value; Cheaper than Imported Clothing. MEN'S MERCERY. SHIRTS. SCARFS, UMBRELLAS, &0. ALL GOODS TO BE SOLD AT PRICES TO MEET THE TIMES. \y< h, a x~k"i HB.



IN the raco that is boiog run for wealth, | roputation, fnnio, name, nnd honour, j success, no doubt, does now turn on the time , that can bo devoted to work. The law of tho survival of the fittest was never so actively carried out as it is in tho present hour. Those strong workers, who can endure the most fatigue, and perform the largest tttnont of com bined mental and physical strain iv tho shortest interval, make solid, rapid progress.' Tho weak go to the wall in one way or Stliei. Reflection will show that this is specially truo as regards our sub-topical climate, and that drawbacks to advancement may Ik. frequently ascribed to , derangements of tire liver. A healthy liver gives., clear head, and active habit of body. Necessity has invented a friendly tonic to relieve this sluggish organ. Alckln's Liver Stiintilaiitia the one thing needful whore the sull'erer is con scious that his digestion has gone wrong. Price, v» gd per bottle. , , Removing to Largor and moro.^ Suitable Promises in S S, § Rattray's Buildings, 800 S «j S ( x ,^Kobson's Dining i H. POTTER, 187 Queen Stre<t v < F. M. P. Brookkikld, I F. W. BroX-K.-ield, Solicitor and Notary 1 Solicitor. &___.___. Public I WE, the underß-gnx.d, hereby notify that we have entered into Pattnorshlp as Barristers, Solteitcrs, and Notaries Public, and will carry on Business in AUCKLAND AND ONEHUNGA, Under the name or style cf " Brookfield and Son." ' FRED. M. P. BROOKFIKLD. FREDERIC W. BROOKFIKLD. Auckland, April 4,1887. "fIOIiDEN GEM" FLOUR V_"T and "XL ALL" OATMEAL Are the best brands in this market. TRY. THEM. ALFRED JOWITT, Sot" Agent. [A CARD ] DR. LBGER ERSON, Parnell (late Dr. Goldsbro's ro?ldenco)-Attends for Con sultation : At Homo. 8 to 0 a.m., nnd 3 p.m. Aioken's Pharmacy, Queen street. 1 to 2 ond 7 to 8 p.m.; Saturday, Panrr.uro and Otahuhu. To.opb.ono. 476.



Mr L. Soharror, of "Can't B Beat"fume, has removed to Carroll's late drapery shop in Queen street, which is being renovated, where he intends carrying on a tobacconist's and hair dressing business.