"•""" oivpd in town this V^lfeS«t 201b of picked -4 „to the eBe?M in t ] ie Saxon G.M. elO waßobt«ine^A the general im «^Tlio»lldal?i rlrh-e bad got within SS^f^-ihareholders will jo^ i thafc at an influential £i?^rt£to the Minister of 'f^fjost «^1 delay which has £ e3 rtthe_mosb^ d i s p U tes as to JSplace m ggg, c i aim s The de- StSoU h:?argo number of men m !, isie«? ing = and at a time when good fr°!totbis district. that a large shipment of Cali lear"ni« i= expected to arrive in forn iao W^: ne xb mail steamer from Kkland by W^ of the fact that L FranClsCttorr]')0rr]' ) are just bursting into led°wn o!Ibe 3 nicely ready for •"?!« of the eggs of the codlin tie recepH" 1 w weU fco remmd the «otb, >b for the carrying out S^ cSffons of tne Codlin Moth Act '•WlS^important that a careful that it-1? the ,Californian fnut should <^ttS.permitted to be landed bei^ ebf , \lany orchardists have M^fSe strong efforts this season ed?l thomoth pesb, and it is a toW,? 0*"IS Seir new-born zeal by fiin? m°hfbe distributed all over sac! apple oases tteC°f ry n,bßion of the inquest held at Atthf CHotlye^rday Mary O'Connor Gleeson. StVhfl hod to be taken back to •Si whtKis at present under IS?'*. Lindsay. ttwe is a decided improvement m the -market Cambrias have advanced *% at>vhich price there are buyers, .have numerous supporters, and XL Iced at 2s Bd. Trentons are in *"" AitU 7d Caledonians are quoted, *>tS Bank of New Zealand shares W^ nd sales reported at £15s 10s to SftS'cSonials are wanted at 41s 6d, at 355. There is a steady de- and Mercantile shares at fJfnoSuoted sellers. Land Mort li Sd at 20s 9d, with sellers fli Dr"S shares are in(luirecl for »t1836d-. - A meetino- of the Kindergarten was held / ffsek °in the schoolhouse, when Mr S ? Smith was appointed Vice-President 3s FbUson Treasurer. All donations !Lbscriptious may therefore be sent to Slidv Mnch satisfaction was expressed take Committee at MrsPhilson under- Lp the duties, someone of weight ffllsbuidingbeinp absolutely necessary for Ziiost It was resolved that a Christmas- Jui sale of gifts be arranged for. Ik following ladies were empowered to arfn gifts in money and in kind :—Mes itaeH. Brett, Afhton, Maclean, and C*. B. » Mrs Dadley Ward, the President, was Jettfor probably the last time, until her Jabd to winter. in Auckland. The ex taoidinary balance-sheet, given in by the la Secretary, in consequence of Mrs fed's departure, was audited by Rev. .Dr. iiljnd Mr O'Hallaran, and certified to isamrect

jgnogthe present week prisoners have San engaged in building the stone wall taiitk Mount Eden Rile Range, and are liiggood progress with the work. As ki»now working, near the targets all pise by volunteers is stopped, as the £as from the bullets would reach the tt The completion of this wall will jajfiddto the safety of the range, and MM improvements which the Range (sfi<Klisve succeeded in effecting.

'Sjcraeirtation of Mr J. C. Firth's Jut&ißeniy rifles to the successful com jritas will take place next Wednesday rang, in the City Hall. Companies are ifljie&dtomuster sharp at the Drill-shed itUop.m., as a general turnout of the link tf $8 Volunteer force is ordered for

lie Aock^nd Naval Battalion had a very wpfal muster last night, there being pk- Auckland, 51; Ponsonby, 47 ; Mtaiala,: 30. Captain Leßoy eom «R Lieutenant Moore passed the pctical part of this examination, before wW-Mdhoa, putting the battalion wagh.tbeir exercises in a very creditable umsa.::" .-•.-■.

, Band of Hope held a very **g meeting ■ last nighb in the Wool-RBM when theprize-winners received «pm awardedto them at the recent wpeatjon.: The programme consisted of « pize songs, recitations, readings and g» given in September last. Mr *»J%occqpied;the chair, and pre nwltJieprizes, accompanied with a few '"^remarks to each oftheprize - 6T 'M pronouncing of the Benedic- a very pleasant meeting to a l^^^^ydon, auctioneer, notifies ™W» oumt&ans columns a large and Cn W^Penor household furni *2£ wown's, Hobson and Cook 2'OnMondaynext; at 11 o'clock. De- WWiasers would do well to pay a JJ*«Mb-nnißb be cleared without

fih °{Hobson -street, who is leav iwT'"?* month' reqaests those ital™ union tickets for sale to •^thenifftthoutdelay. JS*emry celebration of a 5" S tnti? n 'l; The Helping Hand *Sta2W®- Bi# ■*» bounced OTWWkes. This good Civ^r/^ includes sSteJ 0, 01 ' Band of Hope, and 4,^^01. work, of a beneficent HBjteJj*•*!tTlCeß are conducted in '^ £ i £7*^ n»nner, some **R«&^ le° i Salvation Amy genera% P^ceded by an WLft1*!? meetin S of Sfc *. TteatLi Hope was held last \m ifiSs* ■**p< notwith !^b4S?% oi the weather fe^in S« reSld^t> occupied the *&SZ£T* his re- K^tfffi. * Wood- A sood Unpeople if 'was Provided by ■f^WoQldbe * -"^.announced that I^^S? y ladyfriendfor I^^^eevenin 18. 111 ***** of re |ffi^iltJc^ c -i Was elected I l^:«ui*il on T^^ d a Practice

A man named David Carr was arrested at Avondale this morning by Detective Doolan on a charge of unlawfully assaulting his wife.

The annual meeting of the Eden and Epsom Lawn Tennis Club was held in Waite's Hall, Mount Eden. There was a fair attendance of members. The report and balance-sheet of the Committee were read and adopted. The officers and com mittee for the ensuing season were elected as follows :—Patron, Mr Justice Gillies ; Presidents, Mr A. Heather and John Batger ; Secretary and Treasurer, Mr J. G. Blyth. Cummittee, Mrs Callender, MLs Pa'ton, Miss McKellar, Messrs. H. N. Gar land, E. Mahony and VV. Callender. It was resolved to join the Auckland Tennis Association. The lawn, which is situated on Mr Udy's ground, past Cucksey's Store, and contains four courts, was reported to be in excellent condition. j

The Auckland Benevolent Society funds l-equire replenishing at the present juncture and the churches as well as individuals have been appealed to for help. In re sponse to this application the St Matthew's people have determined to give a recital of sacred music on Thursday evening next, for which an excellent and varied pro gramme has been arranged, which will be published in due course. The per formers comprise : Messrs Tallis Trimnell, Mus. Bac.,V. E. Rice, and A. Wiseman, and amongst the vocalists we notice the names of Messrs Charter, Edwards, Gilmer, Knox, Worrall, &c, gi-'ing promise of such a concert as should command a large attend ance, especially as there is no charge for ad mission and the oilertory is devoted to charity.

A programme of much excellence has been prepared for Mr Pooley's Sunday afternoon service of sacred music to be given at the Chambers, Queen-street, to morrow, and as there is no charge for admission a large number should avail themselves of this really enjoyable and refining enter tainment. The list of music appears in another column.

Beware of packages of injurious stuff purporting to make genuine Hop Bitters: also preparations and fluids said to contain till the properties of American Hop Bitter-. They spring up on account of the great popularity of the genuine, which is only put up in large square-panel atnber-colourcd bottles, with the names '" Dr. Soulc " and " Hop Bitters " blown in the glass, and is the best family medicine ever made. Head.

PROPOSED MUNICIPAL WORKS.

The following notices of motion have been tabled for the next meeting of the City Council :-^By Cr. Kidd : "That the En gineer be instructed to prepare plans and specifications for cutting down Bank street to it 3 permanent level, in order that the work may be done in conjunction with the Shortland-street improvements." By Cr. Swales : " That the Engineer be in structed to prepare plans and specifications of the following drainage works in the Ponsonby Ward, viz. : —1. Fernleigh street, to connect with Ireland - street. 2. England - street, from main drain to the foot of Ryle-street. 3. Dublin street, to connect with New-sWeet." By the Mayor: "That the specifications and conditions necesssary for the annual contracts be referred to the Streets Com mittee to prepare and report to this Coun cil." By Cr. Davies, " That the Engineer be instructed to draw plans and specifica tions for the drainage of Arney-street, from Burgoyne-street to Newton Road."

REVISION OF CITY BY -LAWS.

Prohibition of Goats

The General By-laws Committee has drawn up its report for submission to the City Council. It recommends the repeal of the following by - laws: — No. 2 to pave Queen - street; No. 5, to pave Shortland-street; No. 9, re goats; No. 12, to pave streets ; No. 16, re radius ; No. 24, re building area (included in amended building by-law). Nos. 2, 5, and 12, re paving of streets, are now rendered unnecessary by the Municipal Corporations Act. The powers given by No. 16 are pro vided by statute. As for No. 9, its repeal will abolish the existing right to keep goats within the city upon fensed land. The Committee further recommended thafc the following by-laws remain as at present, and that copies out of print be at once supplied : No. 1, re various ; No. 3, obstructions ; No. 7, privies and cess pools ; No. 8, to repair footways;' No. 11, re straying1 cattle; No. 13, Market by-law; No. 14, riding and driving round corners; No. 15, chimneys; No. 17, adopting by-law; No. 25, extended area for by-laws; No. 30, cemeteries ; No. 31, baths. In conclusion, the Committee recommends that as drafts of the following by-laws as amended are now submitted, the necessary notice be given to consider same, viz.:—No. 1, standing orders, amended ; No. 4, by-law to regulate lodging houses ; No. 6, 'general by-law, amended : No. 18, licensing and regulating places of public amusement; No. 23, hackney car riage by-laws ; No. 26, bicycle and tricycle by-law ; waterworks by-law ; new by law to prohibit barbed wire and other danger ous fences.

ENTERTAINMENTS.

On the occasion of presenting the certifi. cates to those children of Mount Roskill public school who were successful at the recent examination, a varied programme was given to those parents and friends who met to witness the ceremony. Among the items were :—Song, Mr Hipkins ; song, Mr Collins ; song, Mrs Cooper; and two well rendered songs from lady visitors ; recita tions from Mr Worrall, Miss B. Conelly, Miss A. Conelly, Master J. Cairns, and Master F. Greenwood; reading from Mr J. Can 1; pianoforte duet from Misses Priestley and Reynolds ; piano solo from a lady visitor. Not the least amusing item was a cobbler's dance by Master Anderson. It had been considered an appropriate time to give a concert in aid of the library, but events occurred preventing this. The Chairman, Mr J. Greenwood, in notifying this fact stated that the concert which had been so much talked about was to take place in three weeks' time, when a choice and varied programme would be presented. He also neatly'conveyed the thanks of the Committee to those who had. so kindly come forward to assist.—[Communicated.]

THAMES NOTES.

(ey telegbaph.—own correspondent.)

Thames, this day. The Warden's Court was occupied to-day hearing the plaint lodged by Mr Humphreys against Richard Mcßrinn, owner of the Prospectors' claim, Hikutaia. Judgment was reserved until the 20th inst.

During the month 1,9190zs the gold have been bought by the Bank of New Zealand. An application was made in the VVardpn s Court yesterday afternoon, by R. Mcßrinn, for a'licensed holding of 30 acres for the prospectors' ground at Mantoto, Hikutaia ; also a special claim for residence site, and permission to construct tramway and water race. The whole applications were ad journed till the 20th instant pending the decision in the case of plaint lodged by Humphreys,

LATEST SPORTING.

Caulfield Guineas Acceptances.

[SPECIAL TO "STAB."]

The following are the acceptances for the Caulfield Guineas, run this afternoon (Saturday) :—

Mr C. L. McDonald's br f Hortense, by Gang Forward—Josephine Hon. J. White's b c Carlyon, by Chester— Moonstone ! Hon. W. Robinson's br c Enfilade, by Musket—Onyx Mr E. Mitchelson's b c Tranter, by Musket —Pungawerewere Mr E. Mitchelson's br c Escutcheon, by Musket—Rosette Mr M. O'Shanassy's eh c Tabard, by St. Albans—Pilgrimage Mr M. O'Shanassy's br c Boz, by Bosworth —Hypatia Mr J. Wilson's (jun.) eh f Query, by First King, King of the Ring, or St. Albans —Senorita Mr S. M. Wilson's br or blk c Joyful, by Glorious—Mangana Hon. W. A. Long's br c Master George, by Maribyrnong— Nellie Hon. W. A. Long's b g Teheran, by Darri well—Haidee Mr H. Phillip's br f Sumatra, by The Pontiff— Malacca Mr D. Cooper's b c Bowmont, by St. Albans —Pardon Mr J. H. Hill's b f Perhaps, by Gang Forward—Peradventure Mr A. Harvey's eh c Pakeha, by The Eng lishman—True Blue Mr T. M. Jordan's br c Strife, by Wild Eagle—Rivalry

Caulfield Cup Betting.

(reuter's telegram. ) Melbourne, October 7. The following is the latest betting on the Caulfield Cup :—6 to 1 against Silvennine ; 10 to 1 Meteor and Volcano ; lb to 1 Lara, Recall, Escutcheon, and Oakleigh ; 18 to 1 Pasha and The Lcvite.

Onchunga Races.

The following additional nominations and acceptances were received at Onehunga last night:—Maiden Plate, Earnest; Spring Handicap, Earnest and The Cat; Flying Stakes, Earnest; Novel Race, Yankee and Luna ; Hack Race, Black Joe. Yankee, and Luna,; Selling Hurdles, Black Joe; Pony Race, Little Minnie. The Auckland ac ceptors will be found on page two.

FIRE AT TAKAPUNA.

At about 11 o'clock last evening a fire broke out at Lake Takapuna Road in a shed own.xl by Davis Bros., and used by them as a store for hay, etc. The building was uninsured, and a valuable chaffcutter was destroyed by the flames. It is said that gum-diggers were in the habit of sheltering and sleeping in the shed, and it is supposed that the lire has been caused by a vagrant of some description smoking there.

DUNEDIN NOTES.

[BY TELEGRAPH —OWN CORRESPONDENT.]

Dunkdin, this day. Mr Macklev, of the Owaka flour mills, fathers the Port Chalmers address to Sir R. Stout. He says neither the Rector of the school nor the Committee had anything to do with it. He says: "It may be thought by gome my enthusiasm has carried me beyond the limits of propriety in suggesting the idea to youths; still I am not ashamed of it, as I feel Sir Robert Stout tried to do much for the youth of the colony and set down an example which I hope many will copy." Justices' Justice. The " Star" characterises the failure of the justices to send Mrs Powell up for trial as a gross miscarriage of justice. It says : " This failure is so distinct that we feel it our duty to direct attention to the subject, which we hope will not escape the notice of the (government. A help less babe of two years old was beaten with in an inch of its life —the head and face a mass of bruises, one arm broken. Thi3 bar barous treatment was condoned by the two pitting magistrates as if it were a mere trivial offence, and the poor child left we presume to the tender mercies of the un natural mother. Such instances as this are little else than a scandal, and cannot be too severely condemned by public opinion."

ALFRED WARBRICK'S INSOLVENCY.

Losses by the Eruption

Under examination by the Official Assignee to-day, Alfred Warbrick (bankrupt) made the following statement: —l am a boat builder by trade, but for the last two years have been resident in the Rotorua district, engaged mostly in native land business, and since the eruption of June, 1886, have acted as guide to visitors in that locality. My loss from the effects of the eruption was over £200 —all I had. In my present occupation, as guide, my earnings are pre carious during the greater part of the year, and so far the average does not exceed what is necessary for the support of my family. My present indebtedness amounts to £218 3s lid to unsecured creditors, and £177 3s 6d of this was incurred prior to my loss by the eruption. The im mediate cause of my tiling was the pres sure of three of my creditors ; they re fused to give me time, although I pointed out to them that my prospects are good for the coming tourist'season. All I have now in the nature of assets is a half interest in two boats on Lake Tarawera, a full interest in a boat in Auckland, and some native curios. The first mentioned is valued at £20, and my co-owner has advanced me that amount in full; the second item is valued at £20, on which I owe a quarter's rent of £7 10s. The curios were given up about eighteen months ago for a debt of £40 then due, and I estimate their value at £50. Beyond this I have absolutely nothing but a book debt of £6, due by the Govern ment, through their agent at Rotorua. I have no proposal to make.

BOARD OF EDUCATION.

At the Board of Education, after we went to press yesterday afternoon, tenders were accepted as follows: —Painting of Mauku West School, £15 10a, Mr Charter; roof, ing teacher's house at Pukekohe West" £30, Mr Spinlay; roofing school and teacher's house at Pukerimu, £63, Mr Hogan. Applications were granted for the " Babylon " school district to change the name to " Avoca," and for repairs to schools in various country districts. Ap plication for building No. 1 school at Koma korari was deferred. On the motion of the Chairman it Avas resolved to give those can didates who had obtained certificates of profi ciency in the scholarships examination, free tuit ion the same as the successful candidates. —A discussion took place with reference to the dismissal of the head-teacher at Kaeo school. After some discussion it was re solved, on the motion of Mr Carr, _" That information re, the teacher's dismissal be forwarded to the Minister of Education."

OUR GOLDFIELDS.

(BY TELEGRAPH —OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

THE YEAR'S GOLD RETURN.

Paeroa, this day,

The bullion returns being the result of treating ore from the different centres in this district for the year ending 30th of Septem ber last are just to hand, and in round num bers their total value amounts to £12,000. This doe? not include the bullion returns obtained from several parcels of ore for warded to foreign markets for disposal, and on the whole the season has been a very bad one.

WAITOA GOLDFIELD.

MR POND'S RETURN,

COMPLETE TEST OF THE DEPOSITS

Mr J. A. Pond, the Government Analys^ has returned from his visit to the Waitoa Valley. During the last week ho has made a careful inspection of the whole of the dis^, tricfc, including Mr Smith's farm, and re. turns to town with about a ton of samples obtained from varioua parts of the valley. The samples are all neatly done up in canvas bags, each containing about 301b or 401b weight of stuff. In orde 1" that there can be no mistake made,each bag is sealed and. labelled to show the particular spot from. which it was taken. Mr Pond states that all the- dirt is similar in character, rl though taken at various depths ranging £rom a few to 20 feet. Mr Pond ant' sis assistants ob tained the samples by means of a boring apparatus, so that the tests should be thoroughly fair. Mr Pond says that the ground can be easily bored, as in his experi ments he met with no real opposition to the rods. Naturally, Mr Pond declines to express any opinion as to the prospects of the field proving payable, as he wishes the assay test to give a, definite answer upon that point. This morning Mr Pond and his assistants were busily engaged at his laboratory assaying the various samples of dirt. Owing to the large number of tests to be made, it will be some time before the results can be made known. It is not unlikely that Mr Pond may received in structions to again visit Waitoa with a view to making further tests.

(BY TELEGRAPH.—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Hamilton,this day.

A Party of Inspection.

His Worship the Mayor of Hamilton, accompanied by Messrs Edgecumbe and party, started for Waitoa yesterday to in spect the field. Mr Pond,. Government Analyst, who has been on a visit to Waitoa, passed through Hamilton yesterday on his return to Auck land. During Mr Pond's stay at the gold lield he had secured several parcels of washdirt from different localities, which he takes with him. The parcels are all labelle-'l, and upon his arrival in Auckland he in —■'s to make a thorough assay of eacb jcl. Of course at tho present Juliette it is impossible to offer an opinion as to tho paying capabilities of tho sand.

A NICE LEGAL.

At the Supremo Court yesterday, His Honor Mr Justice Gillie? settled a very important question in the cueo of John Smith and Mary Ann Smith. This was an application for the rectification of a deed of conveyance. Mr Mahony appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr Blytlie for the defence. The litigants were husband and wife, and the suit was a friendly one. Mr Mahony stated tho short facts of the case, whbh were to the effect that some 7 years ago the plaintiff' conveyed to his wife certain property at Auckland. At the time he intended that the property should be held by his wife for her life, and that after her death it should reverb to himself, his heirs or assigns. By a mistake, however, the solicitor who prepared the conveyance did it in such a manner that it conveyed the property to the wife for life with the alteration that after her death it went to her heirs or assigns. The mistake was only discovered a few months ago, and as its consequence might prove serious, the plaintiff now brought a suit for rectification of the conveyance on the ground of mis take. This action was rendered neces sary from the fact that had the wife died in " the interim the whole of the plaintiffs property would have passed to her heirs and assigns, and as the defendant had no children, would in the event of her decease pass right out of his hands. The defendant, who was aware of her husband's intentions in the first in stance, and was also until recently unaware of the mistake which had been made—ad mitted the right of the plaintiff to have the conveyance rectified, and accordingly filed an admission to , that effect. Another reason why the action for recti fication was necessary arose from the fact that the defendant, though willing, had not the power to will back the property to her husband, on the ground that she having merely a life interest in the pro perty, could not will away the reversionary interest of her heirs or assigns, whoever they might be. His Honor having heard the arguments and the authorities cited by the counsel for the plaintiff, and having also heard Mr Blythe in support of his admis sion, in which it was said that the wife was anxious that the application for rectifica tion should be granted, considered the matter, and decided that it was not necessary under the circumstances to call any evidence in support of the plaintiff's claim, the intention of,the plain tiff and the mistake subsequently made beinggood ground for relief being granted. His Honor requested the counsel for the plaintiff (Mr Mahony) to merely submit the decision for execution.

TELEGRAMS.

New Plymouth, this day. Woman JUrowned.

Mrs Leech, of Inglewood, was found drowned in a pond at the back of her house at one o'clock yesterday afternoon. The wife of Mr Henry Scotland, M.L.C., died this morning at the age of seventy years.

Wellington, this day. Leasehold Disputes-

Some of the leaseholders in the block burned down in February decline to re build on their present leases, which are held from the Corporation. Neither are they prepared to surrender their leases. An appeal has been made to the City Council, who have appointed a Committee to deal with the matter. Unless an arrange ment can be come to, there seems every probability of the block remaining a blank lor a long time to come.

The boys of the Church of England Grammar School, with their friends, went yesterday to Rangitoto in the steamer Alexandra, and enjoyed themselves rambling about. A good many, including ladies, ascended the mountain. _ An early return was made to avoid the rain.

THE POLITICAL CRISIS.

THE OPPOSITION CAUCUS.

"WANTED, A PREMIER."

SOUTHERN PREJUDICE AGAINST

ATKINSON,

GREY DECLINES THE

PREMIERSHIP.

(by telegraph—special reporter. )

Wellington, this day. The Opposition caucus yesterday afternoon was without any tangible result, and, so far ■as one might judge from what is shown on : the surface, the position is decidedly "a s were ;" but those who are in the confi dence of the leaders of the party say that during this period of apparent inaction and conference the pulse of the House is being carefully felt, and that the arrangement of a Cabinet in sympathy with what appears to be the feeling of the majority of the new Pai-liamsnfc is being proceeded with. It appears quite probable that the new Ministry will be sworn in to-day. Ruasoa for "tlie Delay. The- reason given for this apparent delay is very simple. It was obvious from the expression of opinion at the first caucus that the majority of the Southern members in the party were averse to Major Atkinson if it were possible that any other leader, apart from Sir J. Vogel, could have been found. The object of the delay was that every other alternative might be ex hausted before Major Atkinson was put forward. This has been done, and four pro bable men have declined to accept office. The Hon. Messrs McLean, Watcrhouse and • Captain Russell have since been suggested, but in each instance the proposal did not find sufficient favour. The desired object has been attainerl, and members seeing that it is absolutely a question between Vogel^ on one hand and Atkinson on the other, are giving their support to the latter, in the belief that he is a more likely man to carry into effect the great scheme of retrenchment which the country is demand ing. The Second Caucus. Quite a number of those who were present at the caucus on Thursday absented them selves yesterday. As there were only 42 present, including several members who had not reached Wellington in time for the first caucus, it was suggested that the majority of those who were absent were Southern men who were averse to connrfitting themselves to Major Atkinson for the present. No question of policy beyond that of retrenchment was discussed yesterday, and the main question under consideration was really the choice of Premier. The Southern prejudice against Major Atkinson was occasionally displayed, but it was quite evident that the only alter native was Vogel. Sydney Talnhanga Holds Forth. Sydney Taiwhanga, the now member for \ the Northern Maori district, occasioned some amusement at the caucus. He said he ' had tried for twenty years to get into [ Parliament, and had contested seats at nine different elections- Having now suc ceeded, he came to represent not the natives North of Auckland alone, but of the whole colony. Sydney then came to grief in an elaborate statement showing the extent of the borrowing of various Ministers who had held office, the calculation really being one which had been published in various papers. Sydney started off by crediting Vogel with sixteen millions and a-half and gave each Minister a turn, being innocent of the fact that the estimate was one of the amount borrowed while each Minister was in office, and that the same loan appeared to the credit of each man of the Cabinet who was in office at tho time. He concluded his statement with an astonishing declai-ation —that the total amount borrowed by these spendthrift Ministers was one hundred and five millions. Great laughter followed this amusing cal culation. An Unsuccessful Intrigue. Among possible leaders of the House the name of Captain Russell, of Hawke's Bay, was suggested yesterday afternoon, and it is said that an intrigue was entered into by those who were opposed to both Major Atkinson and Sir J. Vogel with a view to getting the hon. member for Hastings to act as nominal leader of the Government. It was urged that as Capt. Russell had success fully carried a resolution in the last Parlia ment directing that Government should re duce their public works estimate by half a million, and as he was much respected by both sides of the House, he was eminently suited for the post. The hon. gentleman, however, was adverse to have so barren an honour as that of figure-head of the Cabinet thrust on him, and the proposal was nofc persevered in. Example to Office-seekers. I mentioned in a previous telegram that both Ormond and Hall had declined office in the new Ministry, and it will now be news to your readers that either Sir George Grey or Sir Frederick Whitaker might have had the position of Premier in the new Cabinet, but they declined to accept it. Grey's reasons were stated at the Opposition caucus yesterday, while Sir Frederick Whitakers health would not permit him to take the Premiership. It is still probable that Sir Frederick will be chosen Attorney-General unless it is decided j not to allot the portfolio. | Distinguishing Features of the House. One of the older members of the House says that to his mind the dis tinguishing features of the present Par liament are greater earnestness on the part of the new members, and a greater sense of responsibility in all from the fact that they feel the* country is watching them, and in earnest. No member has yet turned up who has a job in hand for his district, no money is expected, and all are bent on retrenchment. The prestige of the old parties is destroyed by defeat and the absence of so many of the leading mem bers. The under current, only yet seen by a few, tends to the conclusion that the leasing of The Southern Runs is to be a factor in politics before the session closes. The feeling is that the country is in a difficulty, and de mands the earnest exertions of all. Conse quently, there is an impatience of lobbying and intrigue quite new among members. The House is a very promising one. The young members appear likely to impart to it a verve and warmth, and take things out of the old groove. One outcome of the pre sent ci'isis is the development of a new political " bogie." Grey was for some years the " bogie " of the Hall-Atkinson party. " Keep out Grey" made the House swallow everything. Then Atkinson was Vogel's "bogie," and now Vogel is Atkinson's. "Keep out Atkinson" is the cry, and in this case the country echoes it. Preparing to Quit. The Ministerial residences have been com pletely dismantled, and the occupants are ready to quit them immediately their suc cessors have been sworn in. The Premier's Intentions Again. Sir Robert Stout assures mo that, there is n ot tho slightest truth in tho staterr'jnb cir

culatgd to the effect that he intended settling in Victoria, and says that, as so many lies have been published concerning him he did not trouble to give the rumour a denial. I hear from a reliable source that overtures were made to him to settle in Wellington, but he positively refused to leave Dunedin at present. Sir Robert takes a keen inte rest in matters political, and he will doubt loss re-enter Parliament at next general election, if not sooner. He speaks approv ingly of Major Atkinson, and describes the attempt to make Captain Russell the nominal head of the Government as a " shameful in trigue." The prevailing opinion here is that had Sir Robert been returned, all difficulties would have been removed, as the formation of a Stout-Atkinson admini stration would have been possible. A Young New Zealand Party. The hope of forming a strong young New Zealand party,of which so much was heard during the election campaign, seems to be exploding. The Canterbury phalanx, which would be an integral part of such a body, appear to be returned with the one resolve of prosecuting the Midland Railway, and this of course will not chime in with the sentiments of the young poli ticians from the Northern and Southern constituencies. It is amusing to watch the efforts made by leading men in the House to secure the support of the young blood. One of these, in explaining to me the per suasions used to secure his allegiance, likened the process to trout-fishing, profuse promises being the bait to allure the young try. An Attorney-General Discounted. In dealing with the difficulties presented to the Cabinet-makers, the " Evening Press" says:—"Two, at least, of the so called difficulties of the political situation are really neither more nor less than grand opportunites. We mean the difficulty of obtaining an Attorney-General from a party containing no lawyer of eminence, and the difficulty of giving Canterbury a representa tive in the Cabinet when four-fifths of the Canterbury members are on the wrong side, and very unfit men besides. The way to get over both these difficulties is very simple. It is to do with out an Attorney- General, and to leave Canterbury without a representative in the Cabinet. There is no necessity for an Attorney - General as regards anything lawfully to be done or suffered by that official, because the Solicitor - General can fill his place. Neither is there any advantage to anybody in having an Attorney-General in Parliament, because the Government can always consult the law officers when they want advice, while the business of Par liament is not to learn the law, but to make the law. On the other hand there are very strong reasons indeed why the office of polit ical Attorney-General should be abolished. The late occupant of that office has thrown these reasons into special prominence. The manner in which he abused his position by pursuing his private practice to the neglect of public affairs was a positive scandal. So much was this the case that last session Sir George Grey gave notice of a bill to forbid the Attorney-General engag ing in private practice whilst holding the dh'ce of Premier. Sir George Grey should have gone a step further and made it un lawful for a political Attorney-General to practice in the Courts at all. There is nothing novel in the .idea, for4t will be recollected that when Major Atkinson formed his last short-lived Ministry he did not allot a portfolio of Attorney-General." A Southland Caucus. A caucus of Southland • members, held yesterday afternoon, was attended by G. S. Richardson, Cowan, Ward, Valentine, Hodgkinson and Feldwick. The opinion was unanimous not to offer any factious opposition, and to vote for a Government formed by Major Atkinson, as against a no confidence motion, till the proposals of the new Cabinet were submitted, but on the understanding that the proposals would be submitted at an early date—say within a fortnight. ' < ' Major Atkinson Interviewed. In the course of a conversation yesterday evening with Major Atkinson, he assured me that, contingent on taking office, h6 has no intention of increasing the tariff, and that the present taxation will suffice in—the meantime at all events. Of course the pro perty tax will be continued. The Major adds that no loan is to be raised during the present year. The Financial Statement, In answer toanotherquery Major Atkinson said that if the Ministry would be sworn in to-day, as was probable, he hoped to be able to make his financial statement in about a fortnight's time, and that his proposals would give full effect to the popular demand for a curtailment of public expenditure. The Probable Length of the Session. Beingpressed to give his idea as'to the pro bable length of the session hefranklyreplied, " That is a difficult question till I see how the Financial Statement takes. If it is well received, as I have every reason to think it will be, the session should not be a long one, as it is undesirable to go 'into policy questions at present."' It may be inferred from this that with plain sailing members will be at their homes early- in December. The Continuous Ministry Cry. The member for Egrnont* is fully alive to the necessity of getting rid of the Continu ous Ministry cry, and in assigning his port folios will therefore go in strongly for new blood. It is safe to hazard an opinion that a preponderance of the occupants of the Treasury Benches will not have served terms hitherto as Ministers of the Crown. The Young New Zealand Party. • An informal meeting of the Young New Zealand Party was held yesterday forenoon, and was attended by Messrs Fitcheft, Mc- Kenzie (Clutha), McGregor, Rhodes, An derson, and Ward. It was decided not to offer any factious opposition to Major At kinson should he form a Government, but at the same time not to bind themselves to support him till he submitted his proposals

THE LATEST.

CABINET-MAKING.

PERSONNEL OF THE NEW

GOVERNMENT,

THREE PORTFOLIOS FOR EACH

ISLAND.

MR MITCHELSON OFFERED THE

WORKS' PORTFOLIO,

(from our special reporter.)

Wellington, this day.

I am now in possession of reliable infor mation respecting the position of affairs with regard to formation of the new Cabinet. Portfolios of North Island Members have virtually been allotted, bub so far as the South Island is concerned the general selection of men has not yet been made. It is Sefinitely settled that if Major Atkinson is asked by the party to form a Government, he will submit a Draft of the New Cabinet, comprising four North Island and. three South Island members, with really three portfolios for each island. It i 3 not in tended to have either an Attorney-General or a Minister of Native Affairs. Canterbury Will Not be Represented, owing to the strong block vote in favour of the late administration. Neither will Hawke's Bay have a representative, for the reason that Mr Onnond declines

office, and Captain Russell is considered too Conservative. According to the present arrangement, Sir F. Whlttaker will be leader of the Upper House -without a portfolio. Subject to his acceptance by the party as Premier, Major Atkinson will take that portfolio, and will also be Commissioner of Customs. Mr Georgo Fisher (Wellington) will havo the portfolio of Colonial Treasurer, if Major Atkinson is Premier. Some difficulty has arisen with respect to the Representation of Auckland in the Cabinet. Mr Mitchelson has been chosen for the portfolio of Public Works, but has refused to accept the office. Strong pressure is now being brought to bear on him to in duce him to take that position, and Southern members will not agree to any other Aucklander holding this portfolio. It is almost certain ac the time of wiring that he will give 'way. He gives as his reason for refusal that he cannot spare the time, and objects to the odium which is per sistently thrown on Ministers. That is the position as far'as the North Island is con cerned. The three Portfolios for the South risland, are to be allotted between Otago and Southland men. It has not yet been decided which of the following five shall be the chosen Ministers: G. F. Richardson, Fergus, Hislop, Scobie McKenzie and Barron. The portfolios to be assigned to three of these gentle men are Education, Mines, and Lands. My belief is that Hislop will be Minister for Education, G. F. Richardson of Lands, and Fergus of Mines. The other two, how ever, may upset this calculation. The Hon. G. McLean has positively declined to take a seat in the Cabinet. Mr G. F. Richardson is looked on as certain to have a portfolio. Retrenchment Proposals. The Ministerial proposal for reduction in salaries will probably be £500 off the Premier and £250 off the others—£2,ooo off all. Members' honorarium will be cut down by £50, and that of Council by £100. Reduction ol Members. I hear on reliable authority that Major Atkinson favours bringing in a bill reducing the number of numbers to seventy, to take effect on the expiry of the present Parlia ment. The Young New Zealand Party. The adjourned meeting of the Young !Tew Zealand party held this forenoon was attended by Messrs Allen, Rhodes, Per cival, Ward, McGregor, Valentine, Hodg kinson, Feldwipk, • Carroll, Fitchett, McKenzie (Clutha), and Anderson. It was resolved to give a qualified sup port to Major Atkinson till the Financial Statement is brought down, and that if any unnecessary delay is shown in bringing the statement down, the support would be with drawn. It was stated that the general policy of the Government would be declared in His Excellency's speech on Wednes day. Sir George Grey Again Declines. Some of the Otago members are still anxious that Sir George Grey should be chosen leader, but he absolutely declines fco undertake the position, though giving Major Atkinson his earnest support. Proposed Delay. Efforts are being made to induce Major Atkinson to consent to the ad journment of the House for a fort night, until the Financial Statement is ready. It is believed that this would pre vent Sir Julius Vogel and his party from throwing any element oi discord into the new party.

MR MITCHELSON ACCEPTS OFFICE.

Ministry to be Announced To-night

The plans of the leaders concerning the new Cabinet are maturing gra4ually. The position is practically the same as when I last wired. It is considered, however, that Mr Mitchelson's scruples have been over come, and that he now intends to accept the portfolio of Public Works. The final choice of the Southerners has not yet been made, but if Major Atkinson is selected as Premier by the caucus, the Ministry will be sworn in this afternoon.

An extraordinary gazebte, announcing the new Government, is to be published to-night. .. '

THE NEW STEAMER PUKAKI.

Port Chalmers, this day. Arrived : The Union S.S. Co.'s new steamer Pukaki, from Glasgow.

POLICE COURT—THIS DAY.

{Before H. C. Baddeley, Esq., R.M.) Drunkenness.—Three persons were fined 5s and costs for first offences, and James Robertson, an old offender, wa3 fined 10s and costs, with an alternative of 48 hours' imprisonment. Elizabeth McGinn, pre viously convicted 62 times for drunkenness and 40 or 50 times for other offences, was charged with being drunk last evening, and was sentenced to 12 months' imprison ment. . . - - •

Bread Alone.—Michael Maloney was charged with having failed to provide ade quate means of support for his five children, all of whom are under 14 years of age, the youngest being 14 months old.—Mr W. J. Napier appeared for the complainant, and stated that the defendant was employed as a stone - breaker and, had been employed for four or five years at about £2 2s a week wages. He had deserted his wife and left her with five helpless children in a house in Cook-street. —The defendant interrupted, stating that he had given his wife and children plenty of good baker's bread.—Mr Napier said it was true that the defendant had paid a baker to leave two loaves at the house daily, but he submitted that bread alone was not sufficient for five young children, and that it was. not in compliance with the Act. — Evidence was given by Maria Maloney that the defendant had failed to contribute toward the support of his children except tnat he sent two loaves of bread to the house daily. She had been compelled to provide other food for them by her own labour.—The defendant made charges of drunkenness against his wife, and stated that he had to leave her and live in a hut near Moun b Eden. These charges were denied by the wife, and a witness called by the defendant stated that he had seen Mrs Maloney the worse for liquor, but not drunk.—Mr Napier said the complainant would be satisfied, with 15s per week, and His Worship made an order to this effect, defendant being bound over to ensure these payments in one surety of £25. Anothek Case.—Edward Fitzgerald was charged with wilfully failing to .provide adequate means of support for his five children. —Evidence was given by his wife, who deposed that she. had one child by the defendant and four st«p-children. Defendant : had turned her and her children out of their home. She was willing that he should take care of his own children or else contribute towards the support of all if left in her care.—Defen dant said he was willing to maintain his children, and had done his best, although he. was not making much-money just now. He was willing to take the two little boys with him, and leave the girls with-his,wife. —His Worship ordered defendant'to pay 4s per week towards the suWWjof h« chifiren, and find sureties of £2o that the order would be obeyed, ,

COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &c, To-night

~. Abbott's Opera House—"The Femjile Detec [, tive." B. ■ ■- :; ' ■ ''.:„'' '■•'"''-.,;L£''' '■'": - V.M.C.A. Rooms—Evangelistic Service, 7*30. Temperance Hall -Free JCntertainment, 7.00. 1 Choral Hall-Skatingßink, 2to 5. * ; _ i (ila sworks, Freeman s Bay-Exhibition ulass -1 Junctlon^'f Queen and Grey Stxeets-r-Panowmio . ' Kntertainment, 7.30* ' > > Bota of Joatlces at Ftolico Court. ■' October 10—Mr H. <3. S." Baddeley. _■ , t > :-j..,-.;\ Anctton Sales on Monday, i-.ir;. /■...■■■■. E.l»erdonj!corner of Hobson and CkiOk Sheets -titock of Cabinetmaker, & c ., lliTv CsE^e^ G. W. Binner—Produce, &c., 11 B. Tonks and Co. - Galvanisejci Iron"11 1 S'CochrancandSori—-Propertjri'&o'J 'T2.' ' " ' Arthur and Buddie-TiFtopett^ &<fci v*? T ; . >

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAJR, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8. 1887,

5



Ecclesiastical. ST. PAUL'S — Sunday .Services, 8 a.m., 11 a.m., 6.30 p.m. Morning, "ideas of Christ." Evening,"' Truthfulness." Anthem, " How Lovely" (Spohr). -■■■■.'. ST. MATTHEW'S CHURCH. ---10 a.m., Holy Communion; 11 a.m., Morn ing Prayer, with Liiany and Sermon; 6.30 p.m M Evening Prayer with Sermon by the Yen. the Archdeacon of Auckland. EPIPHANY CHURCH, Karangahape Road. — 8 a.m., Holy Communion ; 11 a.m., Prayer, Sermon, "Christian Joy;" 6.50 p.m.. Prayer; Sermon. " Confirmation: What is it?" All seats free. Rev. Dr. O'Callaghan. YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSO CIATION NEW BUILDING, CORNER 01? WELLESLEY AND ALBERT STREETS. —THIS (Saturday) EVENING, at half-past seven. JMeetinu in Lecture Hall, for United Prayer and Bible Reading. All are invited. QT. STEPHEN'S CHURCH; PON KJ SONBY.—Morning and Evening, the Rev. J. S. West, of St. David's Churchy ST. JOHN'S WESLEYAN CHURCH (Ponsonby}.—Morning at 11, Student. Evening at 6.30, Rev. C. H. Garland. PITT-STREET WESLEYAN CHURCH.-Morning at 11, Rev. C. H. Garland. Evening at 6.30. Rev. H. Bull. QT. ANDREW'S PRESBYTERIAN K3 CHURCH, Alten Road.-ll a.m.. Rev. J. Chew; 6.30 p.m., Rev. A. Carrick. ST. PETER'S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, Surrey Hills. - Morning at -11, and Evening at 6.30, '' Preparing for Great nesa."—Rev. R. Sommerville. AY OND AL E PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.-11. and 630, Rev. C. Wor boys; subject in the Evening, " Vine Culture as Illustrative of the Christian Life." Hender son s Mill. 2.30. MT. LUKE'S PRESBYTERIAN hJ CHURCH, REMUERA. - Services at 11 a.ni. and 6.3u p.m. Pastor, Rev. G. B. Monro. All seats free on Sabbath Evening. I DARNELL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH (Oddfellows' Hall).—Morning at 11, and Evening at 6 SO, Rev. H. M. Livens. \TEWTON CONGREGATIONAL JLI CHUKCH.-October 9. — Morning, Rev. A. Carrick. Evening, Revi H. J. Lewis. Visi tors cordially invited. DEVONPORT CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH.-Morning at 11, Rev. R. iiaishley. Evening at 6.50, JVlc Utting. MOUNT EDEN CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, VIEW ROAD. —Morning at 11, and Evening at 6.30, Rev. B. L. Thomas. Strangers invited. Seacs free. "OERESFORD-STREET SUNDAY JL* SCHOOL ANNIVERSARY WILL BE HELD TO-MORROW (Sunday), OCTOBER 9, 1887 # WHEN SERMONS WILL BE PREACHED, Morning at 11, Rev. H. J.Lewis Afternoon at 3, Rev. C. H. Garland Evening at 6.30, Rev. J. Chew. Collection atEaehServiceinAidofSchoolFunds ON TUESDAY EVENING, October 11, A Tea andPublicMeeting Will Take Place» Tea at 6.30, and Public Meeting at 7.30, WHEN ADDRESSESI WILL BE DELIVERED BY Revs. J. Chew (Chairman), T. Spurgeon.B. L. Thomas, A. Carrick, and other friends. Musical Selections during the Evening by the Choir, at which the Misses Chew will assist with Instrumental Pieces. NITED METHODIST FREE ' CHURCHES. PITT AND VINCENT STREETS-Morning at 11, Mr O. E. Button. Evening at 6.30, Mr W. Hogg. MOUNT EDEN — Morning at 11, Rev. S. Mac- , farlane. Evening at 6.30, Mr J. X: Roberts. ST. HELPER'S BAY—Evening at 6.30, Supply. PRIMITIVE METHODIST -. CHURCHES. SERVICES TO-MORROW AS FOLLOWS :~ ALEXANDRA STREET-rMorning at 11, Rev. A. J. Smith. Subject, "After the Ser mom." Evening at 6.30, Mr »V. Thompson. bunday-school Anniversary next Sunday. PITT AND EDWIN STREETS-Morning at 11, Mr C. Reid. Evening at 6.30, Rev* A. J. Smith. ■ ■ -....', ' - PRIMITIVE METHOD IST CHURCHES. JB'KANKLIN ROAD —Morning ac 11, Rev. C. S. Ward* "Imperceptible Decay." Even ing at 6.30, Rev. C. E.-Ward, " Christ's Appeal to Peter." Thursday at 7.30 p.in.--Lecture, "Love, Courtship, and-Mexrißge;" itev. C. Worboya. Free. Collection. ■•■-.■■■■ RICHMOND ROAD-Afternoon at 3, Rev. C. E. Ward, '-'Fruitßearing." Evening at 6.30, i Mr T. Booth. ~ WATERVIEW (AVONDALE) - Afternoon at 2.30, Supply. Evening at 6.30., Mr Potter. We invite you. . A book. A seat. A welcome. "PONSONBY BAPi IST CHURCH.— _fir October 9.—Pastor J. D. Gllmore. Morn ing at 11, ''A Good Overcoat." Evening;■; at 6.50, Evangelistic Service, "Called to Kepen tance." -. ' ■ ', - ' ■.'"• .- UCKLAND TABERNACLE.—Lo^'s Day, Oct. 9.—Morning at 11, and Even-/ ng at 6.46, Pastor T. Spurgeon. , . ! CITY~"HALIT r" SUNDAY EVENING EVANGELISTIC SERVICES, conducted by the Young Men's Christian Association, to ' morrow (Sunday) at eight o'-clock. : Doors open i at half-past seven. Seats all free. Come early. " T AW, MIRACLES, • AftD PRAYER " JLJwillbethesubjectof the J.t«v. H. J. Lewis's Address to Young Men, To-iniorrow (Sunday) Afternoon, at Three o'clock,^ in the Lecture Hall, Young Men's Christian Association. Come and bring a friend. Gallery reserved for ladies. '. " '___ ]:' ' ■ ;',' '::: ' ■:■..• ''■' '■ A SSOCIATION for the Teaching .of . .£jl Divine Healing, through faith in the Lord' Jesus Chriat. Usual weekly meeting on Monday Evening, at 7.15, Social Hall, Y:M t C. Associa tion, WeJlesley-streeU Membeirs and friends in vited. . ■• - ■ . . . . , ... .■■■ ■ ABB OT T! S OPERA HOUSE. —Geo. Aldridge will lecture; subject, •• The In ew Heavens and ' the New Earth," Service' to commence at 6.4b. MoEaing: Meet ing in the Foresters' Hall at 11. v v cTeTbnth-day adventist JO CHURCH (Mackelvie-street, Surrey Hills). —Pastor A. G. Daniells will preach to-morrow , at 3. and 6.45 o'clock. Subject at 6.43, " Who Are the True Israel, iand What Promises Have They?' " '■■ " '■■'r " ' ' '':■}■■. '■' '^ CHRISTIANS' MEETING HOUSE, Cook-street—Lord*s Day Services.—ll am.,. Worship; 6.30 p:m., Preaching the Gospel. All are invited. ; /"IHRISTADELPHIANS meet in tho \J Mount Eden Hall, Summer-street, every :- Sunday morning, at IV for Fellowship and : the Breaking of Bread. Sunday-schooi at 9.30; Evening at 6.30, Bible Class; subject, "The Gospel: What is it V ■ ;- T ORNE-STREET HALL.—Lecture Igfe I A prof. GEOi CHAINE Yon SUNDAY, 9tnY; subject—" The New Religion : The Moral Com dition of the World under Orthodox Influence." . After the Lecture, Mrs OHAINEY will give some Psychometric Readings. Admission, Is; Gallery, 6d. Commence at 7 p.m. " <; • ' I^TEW CHURCH SERVICES, Foresters' JLI Hall, Karangahape Road.—Morning at 11 I\/f INISTERS AND SUNDAY-SCHOOL JjJL ' • TEACHERS Are reminded that SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16, » ■ ~ Is the I' . ■;-;■'"*■■::,■' {"':'■■ ■'•• ■ DAY OF UNIVERSAL PRAYER . ■ '.'For "' '■' ■".' SUNDAY-SCHOQLS. Will Ministers please remember this when mak- - ing their Announcements To-motefow ? KNIVERSARY SERVIQp.—«• Th* Helping Hand Mission," Drake-street, freeman's Bay. Address to Sundayrschool at 2.30 by Mr John Brame. Evenuig at 6.15, t)pen Air Service at the flrebell, Victoria-street. Even- & ing at 6.45, Special Addresses by.Miss Malcolm and othere. Tuesday Evening at 6.30, Tea Meeting.fbllowed by Public' Meeting. Addresses by Bros. Bull, Gittos, Smith, Parker, and Testi monies from converts". Wednesday Evening , Sunday Scholars' Festival; Tea Meeting, 6.30, followed by a Limelight Exhibition, Music by Pitt-street String Band. A warm welcome to all. ->./■" ;. ; . ... ' , : s ; ~, : , "