. „,.» the arrangements for ThefollSfhi ambers of the House couveyinK^f,^ 6' t o Wellington by the SBepresen^S s . s . Hawea will leave Government .-->■' * m Tuesday, calling finehuDga at Ja- v-pi son and Picton. *$»" P«2ling'on "bout 2 p.n, on h^? re3t special train for members s faursday: A|P mout h at 7 a.m. on \\ ed tolf reSJg^ Wellington at 10 p.m. theSar7oUce Court this morning, one At the Police for getting on person was W<» luckland railway wmlst n motion, and a warrant, was the tram *to in f otber individnal, Psued or Jeanest unk of the latter case have, al- Theiacra de f en dant m this &X been found on the railway line wseha ny with another (who was daalfa **-V danger of their lives. imminent ett^e g On North Shore Mount Eden and Devon port betffeeriS After a very close contest ftraclub succeeded in winning the th 9 Kvscore of nine and a-half games *at?\ Ji*ht and a-half on the part of their gainst eight "^ rt Club nas only oponenb- J- j weeks, and the mem been formed some six . ated ber3 a/^ his tlieir maiden effort No sit ill stimulate them to further en dTtTintroduction to the annual Confer- A( Z Anglican Lay Readers' Associa- Svffiay, 0 t Bishopscourt, Holy Com -110 ?fwas held at 11 a.m., and Arch- CmE*S delivered an address. At ffi the members were entertained at IK' hv Bishop and Mrs Cowie, and fiSeeC opened at 2.30, 26 lay tdersbeingpresent. Papers were read by fisHaselden and Ewington. The even • rliieatSt Sepulchre's was indifferently 85 BilopSowie, Revs J.Hasolden, v folder J. K. Davis, A. Devonian, A. JSS, and Archdeacon Dudley were imwt those present. The Archdeacon n tic evenino- service, whilst Captain i? n dlU.G.S e thS m ithi Tl the X A sermon was delivered by the vl G M Nelson, who took his text from the 9th' veree of the 3rd chapter of Corinth •V" For we are labourers together with i? n 7» The musical portion of the service Jl rendered by a full choir, Mr V.E.Eice presiding at the organ. Speakine at the farewell meeting to Mrs Dudley Ward on Wednesday last, Bishop Cwie said:-One of the greatest authorities upon education had stated that cMldren were just what their teachers made them; and it was because many of the children had no other teaching than that of bad parents, that there was so much juvenile depravity. The Kindergarten was Urn" bold of these neglected children, and hence was doing a noble work. His Lordship then referred to the Sailors' Home. He had been instrumental in estab lishing a Sailors' Home in Calcutta, and when he and Mrs Cowie landed in Auckland they saw at once how necessary such an in stitution was here. When, however, he routed upon the merchants to solicit their help'he 'was met with the statement that there was time- enough, that the plate was not ripe for it, and so on. With very similar replies had Mrs Ward been met Then she first endeavoured to start the Kindergarten. Well, the Sailors' Home was now a new, handsome building, and the institution was endowed with an income of £600 a year. He hoped similar success mold attend the Kindergarten. (Ap jfce.')

Toe promoters of the Auckland Scripture Gi Association make a special appeal in mother column for new subscribers in be kHofthe recently established Infant Day itHFund. The schools at present num fer eleven, With an attendance of 305 ofei?Tom'4"to 9 years of age. Amain featureoitheseschools consists in the Holy Scriptures being1 read and taught daily, witncsreful attention given to moral train ing, in addition to the usual ordinary scnlar instruction.

Thescrutiny in connection with the New ton election, held at Mr Beale's office late yesterday afternoon, was confined to a com parison of the rolls used at the Victoria Hall and St. George's Hall. These dis closed four cases of double voting, but whether they were caused by impersonation or not it was impossible to determine. The Wot papers were not examined, and Mr Boyd was requested to ascertain whether 31r Tole requires a further scrutiny. . If ws-'i3' demanded, the numbers on the corners of the ballot papers will have to be examined in order to discover the dupli cats papers, and the undertaking will «<% about three or four hours.

MrG, Denby, a clever Thames chemist w metallurgist, has discovered a simple method of 'recovering gold remaining in aitags after crushing. The process con «as of mixing the tailings with the best quality of stone lime, in the proportion of one of lime to 20 of tailings, increcasing the nwi* of lime to one in the if the tail ings are heavily mineralised. The actual quantity of lime recmired to act with •n waste can only be determined by W. After .the tailings and lime has wn well mked, tKey should be allowed to «wn in a heap exposed to the weather for L™ 6./ fortnight, and for a longer Wif possible. The tailings are J* ground in berdans in the ordin uLlih- Tl"s Pr°cess has been tried tJffl m.es, lately> in quantities of wo tos with great success. The lime i£n& Uecom P°sing thesulphides, chlorides and oxydising Jl^tals-such as iron, lead, and E' Dg the S°ld and silver, so SkS "^y amalgamate with the C*?■, c would suggest that the JS.^°°l of Mines uld try this Evil' * the 0bJecfc of ascertaining its }$&ST* r* soiree of the Arch Hm °f v i I" prolTenfc A^ociation passed waStoS MBfQli3r l >tni£fht- °™r7° h*2^- aS d,. 110d the wants of then ce S> T ed + by.,the ladies who pro »«C % \ bles > viz -> Mesdames Vts? ett ' Wakerley, and Misses tbecUi r tL Garland occupied tt« folW? nn . ■ P^gramme consisted of S* CSuf-Tr Overture, « March Wjffi*' ■ M"Davieß,and Messrs B^tfc;sonS' "The x 7T MfHoward •• son £. " The **&*&.y°V readin^ ''Dora," oS Heav? 6' panoforte duet" " Dreams ?^n 'tow ?* sm -' recitation, tell ]| c V"*£ Mr Clark; song n >Hr t0 Woo' Thee? !?* WlSy?,°' " Tl:e HarP Thafc "MrDavies; song, STl^f: DS,fUllMoonis Beaming," h"ALittR° fOlt 80l °' Miss Bushffi ; K^*. J O n e ,am,WellTilled," Messrs llWol^g amu slng and instructive StWSTT The National S>VeJe n r nthly en^rtainment l^^ AU ulSltors Sff*^ Aiyj? and interesting s*l° ?i£ } hTP^h. Among Z' KilpaS dllnn §' the evening SlV lfrHateK >S,? ng ' Miss Sprag^

Captain Edwin advises :—" Wellington, 1.30 p.m. W. to S. and S.E. gales, with a further rise of the glass and much colder weather, may be expected."

An Italian named Giaciono Carick was committed to the Lunatic Asylum to-day on the testimony of Dr. Bond.

To the Editor : Sir,—ln this morning's " Herald " I notice that Mr Connell gives the reason of how he believes he lost the contest for Eden. As an Eden elector I distinctly say that the majority of Eden electors who voted have not as a matter of fact chosen the best man, and it both candidates had fought on the same prin ciples Mr Connell must have won, and a6 an elector I think every man who is in trusted with a vote should be left to go to the poll unpledged and use_ his own dis cretion, and not vote for an individual be cause he got a ride, etc, and should Mr Connell again contest this seat he is bound to receive influential and ardent support, and I for one promise him mine D.V. —l am, etc., Ax Eden Elector.

The excessive dampness and cold of the Southern Hemisphere, as compared with the Northern, is illustrated by some recent studies of mountains in Australasia. On the highest mountain in Australia, Kosciusko, patches of never-melted snow are found in latitude 37deg S., 1,500 ft lower than in the Alps of Europe, in latitude 47deg N., and at about the same level as the European snow-line for latitude 52deg. Everywhere in antarctic lands snow and ice are much more extensive than in the Northern Hemis phere at similar latitudes.

Yesterday the funeral of the late Mr iJas. P. Brady, of Otahulm, took place at the Roman Catholic burying ground. The de ceased was a native of the pleasant sub urban village where he resided, and being widely known and esteemed, his death is much deplored.

The opening parade of the Bicycle Club will take place to-morrow should the weather prove fine, starting from the fire-bell at the foot of Grey-street, at 2.45. It is expected that about 50 riders will take part mounted on all sorts and conditions of machines.

The managers of the Choral Hall Skating Rink having decided to close the season on Wednesday, the 12th October, attherequest of a number of their patrons, who have ex pressed a wish that it should be a fancy dress affair, they have acceded.

Now the elections are over^people will want something substantial to feed upon. This they can get at the Auckland Pro vision Co.'s Shops, Karangahape Road, opposite Rising Sun and McPherson's. A splendid show this week at low prices.— (Advt.)

We notice that Messrs Hallenstein Bros, and Co., the New Zealand Clothing Fac tory, 158 and 160, Queen-street, are as usual early to the front in displaying the new goods for the coming season. Every de partment has been extensively replenished with the most fashionable and useful styles in boys', youth's1, and men's clothing and outfitting. Boys'school suits are specially selected to meet the times, being cheap and durable. We recommend an early visit.— [Advt.]

If you should happen to meet a well dressed gentleman, you may depend upon it he patronises Woollams, the tailor, at Sydenham House, Grey-street.—[Advt.]

OPERA MOUSE.-"The Female Maccabe."

Miss Georgie Smithso^, "The Female Maccabe," made her debut at the Opera House last night, and afforded ample demonstration of the fact that the remark able popularity which she enjoys in the South has been fairly won on her pro fessional merits. As a " lightning change " artiste, she will hold her own with the best that we liave 'seen in Auckland, and as a clansevse she takes high rank also, while as a character impersonator she is equally good, and that is saying a great deal. The extent of the lady's versatility will be understood when it is stated that, like her prototype—the only Maccabe—she practically contributes the entire entertain ment, for, although Mr Dun bar appears as a negro page, his duty is merely to hold the stage during hia principal's very brief absences from it. Miss Smithson not only then supplies the entertainment, but she never allows the interest of her audience to flag, and the rapid succession of changes, coupled with the alternation of song,dance and funnyism, render the performance very enjoyable in deed. Those who want to " drive dull care away " for the nonce, and solace themselves with a couple of hours' cheerful and inno cent recreation, cannot do better than pay the Opera House a visit. The first part of the programme last night consisted mainly of the " lightning changes," accompanied by songs and dances. They are introduced in a kind of dramatic sketch and by way of a series of surprises which a lady of fashion plays upon her unsophisticated negro page. Immedi ately after each characterisation the lady re-appears in morning costume, and the changes are effected with wonderful rapidity. The characters portrayed were : The Duchess of Devonshire, the Lancashire Lass, the Standard Bearer of the Past (clad in a gorgeous beaded costume in the form of a complete suit of mail), "Jo" (from Dickens's " Bleak House "), the Duchess of Devonshire again, Mrs Gummage (from •' David Copperfield "), and a typical " Irish Boy." The portraiture of Poor Joe was realistic and consequently pathetic, while the change from this part to that of, the Duchess of Devonshire, with her very elaborate toilette, was quite startling in its cellerity. It occupied just a minute. As Mrs Gummage, the woman of very few wordp, the actress took the opportunity to deliver a very sensible lecture to young housewives, and her dancing of an Irish jig in the conventional stage costume of a " son of the sod" fairly brought down the house.. The second part of the programme consisted of the leading ■morceaiix from Lecocq's comic opera " La Fille de Madam Angot," in which Miss Smithson impersonated the roles of Glairette, Madame Lange, and the first Conspirator. \ She accordingly sang the parts in the well-known " Quarrel duet," and with the assistance of Mr Dunbar (Ange Pitou) 'and'five supernumeraries the Conspirators' chorus and the comic quadrilles were performed. Miss Smithson's costumes are both elegant and appropriate, and her entertainment is carried through in first class style. She is thoroughly well deserv ing of popular support, and the best recom mendation we can give the public is to see and judge for themselves. One visit will ensure others.

BISHOP HATFIELD AND THE DRUIDS.

He Prohibits a Monument

(by telegraph.—press association.)

Wellington, this day. The Bishop of Wellington and the local lodge of Druids are at loggerheads over a proposal of the latter to erect a Druidical monument a la Stonehehge ruins over the grave of a late member of the Excelsior Lodge. The Bishop absolutely declines to allow the monument to be reared, on the ground that it is an emblem of paganism, and as such should not be countenanced in a Christian cemetery. The Druids are con sulting a lawyer as to whether they can legally carry out their design without the approval of the ecclesiastical authorities. If they cannot do so, they talk of going even to the length of disinterring the body and. burying it elsewhere.

"STAR" COMPETITION.

Christmas anS Mew Year Mottoes

THE JUDGES' AWARD

We have now received the award of the gentlemen appointed to determine the merits of the veraes sent in competition for the prizes offered by the proprietor of the Star for the best four-line and eight-line poetical mottoes suitable for Christmas and New Year cards. As there were about 400 different verses sent in many of them of a high standard of ex cellence—the task of the judges was no less difficult than it) was laborious. After the fullest consideration they fixed upon a four line verse sent in by " Delta " as being the best, and therefore entitled to the two guinea volume offered as a prize. In the eight-line mottoes the difficulty of adjudica tion was much greater, and the judges recom mended two competitors for prizes. Act ing upon this recommendation, it has been resolved to award prizes of equal value to the authors of verses signed " Senex " and " Romeo" respectively. The prize compositions, along with selec tions from the more meritorious of the verses sent in, will be printed upon a new and attractive series of Christmas and New Year cards, with original and beautifully coloured designs, specially suited for the colonies, or for sending to friends at Home. The Christmas cards are now in prepara tion, and will be placed on sale within a few days, so that they may be posted by the San Francisco mail leaving Auckland on Monday, 10th October.

A large selection of the competition verses will be published in the Star Christmas Number for 1387. The prize compositions will also be inserted, with the names and addresses of the authors. In the case of non-successful verses the names and addresses will not bo published unless the authors should send a request to chat, effect.

The award of the judges is as follows :— Christmas and New Year Motto Competition.

We find the four-lined motto signed " Delta" to be the best in that class.

With regard to the eight-line competi tion, we are of opinion that the best verse is that which bears the signature of " Senex," whilst that signed "Romeo" is of nearly equal merit.

We therefore recommend that prizes be given to these three.

The eight-lined verse signed " Mutual Gladness " we highly commend. The standard of excellence reached by the eight-line competitors rendered the task of selection in that class difficult.

E. H. GULMVEK. J. L. Kelly.

On the envelopes containing the names being opened they were found to be as fol lows:—"Senex,"J.F. Warneford; "Romeo," E. S. Husband, Auckland ; " Delta," J. W. Davies, Ngaruawhia ; "Mutual Gladness;" B. M. Gubb, Port Albert.

MEASLES IN WELLINGTON.

(EY TELKGRAriI—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

.. Wellington, this day. Theee families of immigrants, bound for Auckland, who arrived by the lonic, have been quaratined, owing to a mild form of measles which has broken oufe amongst them.

PRESENTATION OF THE HUMANE SOCIETY'S MEDAL.

At the meeting of the City Council last evening His Worship the Mayor presented the bronze medal- of the Royal Humane Society of Australasia to Mr William Peake. Mr Devore, in making the pre sentation,, said that he had been re quested by His Excellency the Governor of New Zealand to present Mr William Peake with the bronze medal and certificate of the Royal Humane Society of Austra lasia awarded for saving life in Auckland Harbour in May, 1886. The action was recorded in the New Zealand "Gazette," showing that the recipient saved the life of one Allan Nicholas by jumping over the Queen-streefc Wharf, on a dark night, when encumbered with heavy cloth ing. They who knew the danger attendant upon such an action when a heavy tide was running could fully appre ciate the bravery displayed. He had now the pleasure on behalf of the Governor of making the presentation, feeling sure that the honour shown to him would always be deserved. He trusted also that the good example shown by the recipient would cause other men to ever strive to save life. He then handed over the medal and certifi cate. Mr Peake briefly thanked His Wor sbip, and expressed the hopo that he would ahvays be found ready to do his duty. He then withdrew.

AUCKLAND CRICKET ASSOCIA TION.

The annual meeting of the Auckland Cricket Association was held in the Club room, Albert Hotel, last night, over thirty members being present. Mr Easam was voted to the chair. The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed, and then the Secretary read the report for the year, which showed that the Association had been very successful in its two foreign' matches — against the Australians and against Wellington; the former of which was a draw, and the latter a win for Auck land. ' The cups presented by the As sociation were won by the Auckland, Parnell, and Alpha Cricket Clubs. As the latter club has won their trophy two years in succession, it has now become their property. The report stated that a visit was expected this year from an English Eleven, that there was very little hope of a provincial team visiting Auckland, and that it was Auckland's turn to go South. The report was adopted. Mr C. McCor mick, the Hon.. Treasurer, then read the statement of accounts, which showed as follows:—Receipts : To balance at bank, £3 13s lOd ; club's subscriptions, £18 18s ; sale of programmes, £2 lls 6d; Australian match receipts, £207 3s 6d ; Wellington match re ceipts. £49 12s 3d. Total, £283. Ex penditure : By badges, £4 2s 6d; stamps, post cards,advertising,etc.,£9 13s 8d; expense?, Australian match, £199 8s lOd ; expenses Wellington match, £66 18s 3d ; balance in bank, £2 16s lOd. There is still a liability of £5 owing on tha grounds, and against this the Association has property valued at £12 Is 10d, while the subscription of one club is still outstanding. The balance sheet was adopted. .The Patron, Presi dents, and Vice-Presidents for 1886-7 were re-elected for the ensuing year. On the motion of Mr Lynch, seconded by Mr Testro, it was decided to have a Selection Committee of three instead of five. On the motion of Mr Barton, seconded by Mr Beale, it was decided that no junior dele gates can have any voting power on ques tions relating exclusively to senior cricket. The meeting also amended the rules so that the first innings of each club in a cup match must be decided, and also that no club should be allowed to enter for the cup matches until its subscription is paid. The date for taking entries for the cups was extended to October 10 th, It was decided to leave in the hands of the Com mittee the proposed Southern tour. The Chairman then presented the badges and cups to the winners. A vote of thanks to the Chairman brought the proceedings to a close.

OUTRAGE AT DUNEDIN.

(BY TELEGRAPH.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

Dr/NEDIN, Thursday. Three young men named David Gold smith, Daniel Hamilton, and Andrew Craig have been arrested, charged with in decently assaulting a servant girl named Margaret Wilson in the cricket ground at about a quarter to eight on Tuesday even ing last, The accused were brought before the City Police Court this afternoon, when they were remanded, bail being allowed in £100 each and two sureties.

SPORTING NEWS.

At the Napier Park races yesterday, Stock and Conroy's Salisbury (7st 21b) appro priated the Park Stakes of 200sovs, li mile. Strenuous (7st 101b) was second, and Marama (6st 71b) third. The other starters were The Shah, Deceiver, Orwell, and Porawa. Time, 2min. 43sec. Dividend, £2 9s. The Tramway Stakes fell to Strenuous, who easily beat Deceiver, Or well, and Pyscho , and Forester got home first in the Grand Stand Handicap, De ceiver being second, and Orwell third. The dividend on Rimu, the winner of th& Hurdle Race, was £9 11s.

Nominations for the Onehunga Spring Meeting close to-night.

An advertisement announcing Mr J. Alwell's racing stock, etc., for private sale, will be found on page three or this issue.

NATIVE TAPU CASE.

Mr B. F. Edwards (Assessor of the Native Land Court at Tauranga) has delivered the following award in the above case, which was referred to his arbitration the other day :—" The cause of the trouble was ,"a curse or 'kanga' made by Mihi Wirem'u against Tereha foreating fish said to be taken from the sea, over which the Ngapaoa tribe had placed the Maori law of tapu. But it has come out in evidence that all the tribe had transgressed this law by eating fish before the tapu was removed. There fore I don't think ifc waa right for them to set up another law of tapu as against this person Tereha. On the other nand, the crime of ' kanga ' was regarded by old Maori law as a very great insult. If the person who uttered the ' kanga' was of a different people, it would have been a cause of bloodshed between the two tribes. In this case the persons are relatives in the first degree, and were nearly related to the deceased. The people would not look upon the ' kanga' in this instance as a very great crime. Ifc has transpired during the investigation that Tereha made u^e of some strong words again.st Mihi Wiremu, not exactly a 'kanga,' but something near it. The Komiti investigated both charges, and fined c-aoh party .110 10s. Here the troubles com menced, because the Komiti were unable to enforce their finding agaii.st the parties. Then the Church Komiti took the matter in hand, but failed to settle it. The dispute was then taken to the law courts, where it again failed, and now it has been submitted to my arbitration. I think the Komiti awards were excessive. This is my decision :—Let Mihi Wiremu's two horses be returned to her, and Tercha's horse and cow be returned to Tereha, so that former troubles may be cleared up between them. I decide that Mihi Wiremu pay for her curse or ' kanga' the sum of £2, and for the insulting remarks of Tereha against Mihi Wiremu 10s, the law costs to be equally divided between them, the costs oi' this award 10s."

VALUELESS CHEQUES.

At the Police Court to-day two charges of obtaining money and goods by the cir culation of valueless cheques were heard against George Mason, otherwise Richard Bihgham Mason. In one instance it was alleged that the defendant had obtained a pair of boots, valued at 7s 6d, and £5 12s 6d from William Charles Soar, of Newton, by means of a valueless cheque signed by Charles E. Madden. In another case the same defendant was charged with having obtained from James Rae the sum of £6 by representing that Charles E. Madden had £400 coming to him from certain property in Hobson-street, the mortgage deeds of which would not be ready for three days. Mr Hudson Williamson appeared for the prosecution, and Mr W. Dignan for the de fence. Mr Williamson, in opening the case, stated that these charges were two of a series of similar allegations made against the defendant, extending over the month of August. He was prepared to show that the defendant was perfectly aware that Mr Madden was not in posses sion of funds to meet the cheques, and he would also be able to show the "intent" to defraud. Evidence was given by Charles Wm. Sour as to the purchase of boots, and payment by cheque on Charles E. Madden. Defendant stated that the cheque was perfectly right, and he (witness) accepted it because he believed defendant was doing business with Mr Madden. Evidence to a similar effect was given by James Rae as dealing with the second charge. This case was proceeding as we went to press.

FOOTBALL MATCHES.

The Auckland Football Association decided' against the Saracens last night in a protest they entered against the Links claiming a win in the match last Saturday. The tie for the cup made by this will bo played off to-morrow at Dilworth's paddock, Remuera. A Rugby match will also be played on the same ground between two teams picked from the V.M.C.A. gymnasium by Messrs Wheatley and Goulstone. V.M.C.A. Matot. — Wheatley's Team: Wheatley, Downs (2), Adams, Hutchinson, Howard, Spiers, Smith, Hatswell, Mc- Naughton, Laird, White, Thomas, Taylor (2), and Devin. Goulstone's Team : Goul stone, Cook, Adams, Hemery, Baker, Wise man, Airey, Mill, Miles, Howden, White, Price, Wrigley, Johnson, Carter, and Dickey. Phcenix Foundry v. Albert Foundry ,'in the Domain). — Phoenix Foundry :■ Braund, Stone, Bruce, Stuart, Potter, Wintle, Tizard (2), Laurie, Errington, Lynch, Ryan, Davison, Hales, Jury, Hill, Mclndoe. Home Bay v. North Shore lll.—North Shore : Green (Captain), Buchanan, Young, McCarthy (2), Schmidt, French, Kelly, Farquhar, Wardell, Conway (2), Murphy, Glover, Scott, Maude, Becroft, Nicholson, Masefield, Chapman. Home Bay players are requested to meet at Three Lamps at 1.30 p.m. so as to catch the 2 o'clock boat, ' True Blue v. Richmond (at Glenmore). — True Blue: Wilson (captain), Walton, Dowling, Dormer, Barker, Jeffrie, Mitchell (2), Ramsey, Smith, Aze, Logic, Walker, Gassy, Taylor. Emergencies : Mitchell, Walton, Jeffrie, Willis. Erasers v. Maskfield's. — Masefield s Team : Mays, Wheeler, Beany, Masefield, McDonald, Wakerley, Muir, Duthie, Boord, Sutherland, Brown "Kelly, Saxon, Wilson, Murphy. Waverley v. Onehunva Rifle Corps.— Waverley : Clarke, Francis, Harris (2), Jef frey (2), Lundon, Robb, Somerville, Steven son, Sutherland, Suttie, Watkins, Wyn yard.

ELECTION ITEMS.

THE OFFICIOUS POLICEMAN.

DISPUTE AT WAIKATO.

Mr Bevan's ©efeat

AN ISATE SOUTHERN CANDIDATE.

Coromandcl Election,

(BY TELEGRAPH —OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Coeomandel, this day. The declaration of the poll was made to. day, when Mr Cadman was declared elected with a majority of 69.

Cambridge, Thursday.

It is alleged that at the Waikato election the corners of the voting papers were not gummed down, but merely turned down, after the number had been written on it. Protests were recorded at nearly every booth. Mr Russell, the defeated candi date, has laid the facts before the Colonial Secretary, claiming that the Returning Officer's action is illegal, and the whole election invalid. He has also wired for the best legal opinion obtainable on the subject.

Wellington, Thursday.

An investigation has been made into the conduct of the constable who was reported to have interfered with certain of the elec tors at Mr Ivess's recentmeeting at Napier, and the Commissioner of Police has reduced the offending constable to the bottom of the third-class list.

Hokitika, Thursday,

Mr Bevan has received the following telegram from Sir R. Stout: "I am so sorry at your defeat. The House has lost one of its best speakers and most straight forward members. I hope we both in private life will do'our duty as citizens." He also received telegrams from Sir J. Vogel, Mr Larnach, and many members of the late Parliament and people throughout the colony, expressing similar sentiments.

Invercargill, Thursday.

An unusual scene occurred at the declara tion of the poll for invcrcargill, to-day. Mr Hatch, one of the defeated candidates, challenged the Returning Officer to say that the election had been conducted fairly and squarely. Bo asserted that during the absence of the Returning Officer from the main polling booth, his clerks distributed papers to electors which had b'.'eu (!uly marked, folded, and put into the b:illot box. In one instance at least a voter had been told which of the names to scratch out. He had his own scrutineers, and one who represented another candidate to prove this, and he was certain that it had been done with the object of getting Mr Foldwick in. (Cries of "No" and "Yes.") He stated that the Returning Officer was no more fib for the position he occupied than the dog in the street, (Groans, hisses, and general uproar.) He further asserted that his opponent/ had brought out a fourth man, because they were afraid iie would beat the other throe. If any single individual stood against him he would give that individual the biggest thrashing that over he got in his life. The Returning Officer (Mr A. C. Henderson) replied, denying the statements made against him of unfair con duct, but admitting that several voting papers were given out in his absence. There is said to be public dissatisfaction with the state of the roll.

Mr Dodson on Coalition

Blesheim, this day.

The poll was officially declared to-day. The figures were unaltered. Mr Dodson in returning thanks expressed the opinion that in the present state of the colony what was wanted was a strong coalition Govern ment. It was no time for party rights ; in fact, party lines had been obliterated.

Greymouth, this day,

There has been some talk of Mr Petrie's supporters trying to upset the election, but it is understood that Mr Petrie disap proves, and no action is likely to be taken, though some money was collected for the purpose.

Address to Mr Tole.

(To the Editor.)

Sir,- Most of our citizens will, I think, heartily endorse the suggestion made by "Elector" in your columns last evening, that a public address should be presented to Mr Tole. There can be no doubt that he has given the colony excellent service in the past, despite what may be said by his political enemies. It would be a great improvement if city electorates could be amalgamated, as is the case in England, as the present system tends to stitle expression of the true views of numerous individual electors, and to cause the opinion of a city, as a whole, to be misrepresented.—Yours, etc., J. G. Cox.

The various declarations of the poll for the town constituencies took place to-day, The figures were not altered in auy case, and a few short speeches were made.

DECLARING THE POLL.

Manukau

The official declaration of the poll for thi s electorate took place at 12 o'clock to-day at the Court House, Onehunga. About 100 persons were present, amongst them being the successful and the defeated candidates, and Mr F. Lawry, the new member for Franklin North. Captain Galbraith, the Returning Officer, opened the proceed ings by informing those assembled that on going through the different rolls he found a slight difference to the result announced on Monday night.He then declared the poll as follows : For Sir G. M. O'Rorke, 637 ; for Mr S. S. Osborne, 570. Majority for Sir G. M. O'Rorke, 67. Sir G. M. O'Rorke,on rising, was greeted with cheers. He thanked the electors for again returning him at the head of the poll—a victory having been won at each polling place. He particularly wished to thank Mr Suiter, the Mayor of Newmarket, for his untiring efforts in securing his return. He would not detain them with a long ad dressonthisoccasion,as allpresent well knew how deeply he felt towards them. Were it not for their cordial support, he would now be numbered amongst the fallen mem bers of the Ministry. He regretted that in consequence of the early summons of Parliament he would not be able to thank his supporters individually as h_J would wish to do. (Applause.) Mr S. S. Osborne, the defeated candi date, then addressed those present by thanking those who supported him at the ballot box on Monday last. He accepted his defeat in good part, but did not like it, nor did he expect it. He did nob like to be beaten even by Sir G. M. O'Rorke. Sir G. M. O'Rorke had advantages over him that he did net possess. •(A voice: " Youre right there.") He had a title conferred upon him by Her Majesty the Queen of England; in other words, he had a handle to his name. What this was worth he would not say. He had also the Parlia mentary experience that he was de ficient of. He attributed his defeat chiefly to the actions—contemptible actions —of the Auckland press. Sir G. M. O'Rorke proposed, and Mr S. S. Osborne seconded, a vote of thanks to the Returning Officer,which was responded to by that gentleman. This ended the pro , ceedings, .

THE POLITICAL CRISIS.

MINISTERS RESIGN

MAJOR ATKINSON SENT FOR

[by telegraph.—own correspondent.]

Wellington, this day, 12.40 p.m. Ministers have resigned. The Governor has sent for Major Atkinson.

There is, of course, any amount of specu lalation relative to the outcome of the political entanglement. The rejection of Messrs Bryce and Rolleston places Major Atkinson in a difficulty with regard to consulting the old leader of his party, and is considered to have cleared the way for new combinations and making openings on the Cabinet for entirely new men.

The strength of Sir Julius Vogel'a per. sonal following, however, is an awkward factor which any new Government that does not include the Treasurer will have to count upon, and although Major Atkin son will probably negotiate first of all with his own party, so much disappointment will probably be felt by expectant office-seekers that an adverse vote of the House would force a coalition.

There is an impression among some of the Atkinsonite party here that the mem ber for Egmont will offer Sir John Hall the leadership in the hope of ■weaning away part of the Canterbury vote. It must be confessed that he is in a quandary here, owing to the strong pledges of support given to the Stout-Vogel Go vernment by nearly all the Canterbury

members,

Major Atkinson is, however, aware that a number of hi 3 own party are so strongly opposed to Sir Julius Vogel that any proposal for a coalition with him would alienate his own supporters. It looks very much, therefore, as if he would give prefer ence to the Hall alliance, although he may> as in the beginning of last session, try his hand at an entirely new combination.

Sir George Grey is biding his time and is reticent. He evidently does not wish to commit himself to. an opinion until he be comes niose familiar with the new members of the House. He is, however, all alert any you may depend upon it that any Hall-Atkinson Ministry will have to count upon the hostility of the knight of Kawan.

The Official Announcement.

Wellington, this day.

All the members of the Government ex cepb Mr Tole have arrived and a Cabinet meeting is to be held this afternoon.

Mr .Richardson came up from the South.

It is officially announced that Sir Robert Stout has tendered his resignation to His Excellency, and that Major Atkinson has been sent for.

OVATION TO SIR ROBERT STOUT.

Speeches at Christchnrcli.

(BY TELEGRAPH—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Christchurch, this day. One of the grandest impromptu ovations ever given to a public man in Chrisfcchurch took place yesterday in respect to Sir Robert Stout, who unexpectedly appeared at the declaration of the poll for Christ church South. The cheering as soon as he was seen to enter the Oddfellows' Hall was something to be remembered. A monster requisition for circulation through out the whole colony has been prepared asking him to re-enter Parliament. As a matter of fact the ovation began at Lyttel ton, where a great crowd assembled on the wharf. The cheering was long and hearty. When Christchurch was reached the horse was taken from the cab Sir R. Stout had en tered, and the vehicle was drawn by people at a merry pace to Coker's Hotel, where a speech was made from a window. Sir R. Stout said, "I have to thank you very sincerely for the kind reception the people of Christchurch have given me. I can assure you the sympathy received from my fellow-colonists all over the colony is not only, very gratifying to me, but shoAvs that at last we have achieved the task of creating what I may call a New Zealand public opinion. I regret very much that the people of Otago have not united with the people of Canterbury— their natural allies (hear, hear), but I feel that in a month or two they will see that they have made a great mistake. (A voice: " They do so already.") Some of them have decided to the contrary, and they will have to do what all must who make mistakes (cheers)—chew the cud of bitter ex perience. I again thank you very much, and can assure you that throughout my public life I shall not forget the kindness I have received from the people of Canter bury, and shall always be glad to do any thing I can on their behalf." (Loud cheers.)

Subsequently, at the Oddfellows' Hall, when Sir R. Stout came forward, he was received with deafening cheers. He said he felt out of place. ("Hot at all.") He had to thank the people of Christchurch and Canterbury for the kindness they had shown him. They were not like some people, who thought a man who was down on his back required no sym pathy. (Applause.) Canterbury had set an example of what union could do, and would, he believed, in the coming Parliament have much greater in fluence than any other provincial district. He regretted that there was not more sympathy between Dunedin and Canter bury. But the reception he was receiving now would do much to draw those districts together. (Applause.) It was a good sign to see young men no longer anxious to go to other countries for employment. The strong protest that would go r,p to Wellington in favour of local industries must be highly favourable to the colony. It would give hope to the young men, and would raise New Zealand to a higher position than she had hitherto occupied. (Hear.) He was very glad to see that Canterbury had realised her duty. Had other districts done the same,the result of the election would have been very differ ent.

Mr Macalister expressed regret at Sir Robert Stout's defeat, which friends and enemies alike regretted from one end of the colony to the other.

NEW PLYMOUTH HARBOUR BOARD.

(BY TELEGRAPH.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

New Plymouth, this day. Several persons having refused to pay New Plymouth harbour rates, have been summoned. Several have combined together to try a case in court, which will be heard on Wednesday. The Resident Magistrate gave judgment yesterday morning in favour of the Harbour Board, stating that he had no doubt the rate had been properly struck.

OUR GOLDFIELDS

Thames, this day.

Cambria.—The second stope is now in progress on No. 5 leader at No. 3 level, and 251bs picked stone were bagged when breaking down yesterday afternoon. The stringer in the crosscut at the same level shows dabs of gold very freely.

COROMANDEL.

[From Our Own Correspondent.]

Royal Oak.—Since last report the ree has been gradually improving, which is but small in the centre of the rise, but has made up to the cross-head which carried the gold up. At present in both ends of the rise the reef looks promising, about 6 inches in thickness,showing indications of making specimens again at any moment. In the tribute there has been another breaking down of the reef without any result, al the reef looks well from from 2 to 6 inches, and well defined. — Peter Reid, mine manager. September 28th.

Tokatea.— William Duncan and party, from Nos. 3 and 4 blocks, have now on hand 4 tons of general quartz and 501b of picked stone, which they intead to have treated next week. Halpin and party have uncovered a new leader on the surface por tion of their tribute, from which they get good prospects of loose gold and 51b picked stone during the week. Roberts and party have also obtained 81b of fairly good stone this week, which makes 151b on hand. Knox's return from 10 bags tind 801b speci mens yielded 440z 9dwt melted gold.— Jno. Benney, mine manager.

THE WAITOA GOLDFIELD

Measures to Throw It Open.

(BY TELEGRAPH—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Hamilton, this day.

Regarding the throwing open of the Waitoa goldfields for the free enterprise of the community as a whole, the Mayor o- Hamilton (Mr C. J. W'. Barton) has called a public meeting of the residents of Wai. kato for to-morrow afternoon to con sider the matter. Both the members for Waikato and Waipa are prepared to use their influence in urging upon the Government the advisability of taking the necessary steps to secure the Waitoa goldfields in the interests of the public generally rather than leave it to sharebrokers and companies to monopo lise the field, thereby affording employ ment to the masses. A telegram has also been sent to the Mayor of Cambridge from Mr Barton asking for his co-operation, and as Mr J. B. Whytewill be in Cambridge to morrow, at the declaration ox the poll, the inhabitants will have an opportunity of ex pressing their views to him.

Waitoa Deposit.

Te Aroha, this day.

Several men are engaged in looking round and prospecting generally in the Waitoa district at present, and a number of fresh parcels from different places have bSen sent for test purposes. I hear the Auckland Agricultural Company are having boring rods made for the purpose of testing their Waitoa estate.

Waitoa Goldfield.

(To the Editor.)

Sir,—Will you allow me to add to the in formation I gave one of your indefatigable reporters yesterday, and which appeared in your issue of last night ?-■ Prior to his call ing at my office, an alluvial miner, formerly on the West Coast and recently from Aus tralia, had been to see me respecting a notice posted up in town that 4oz. nug gets had been obtained in the Waitoa river, and said he was preparing to leave for the rush, when he was informed the notice had been withdrawn. lat once saw the danger of a big rush taking place to the Waitoa, or a too sanguine report bein<* circulated, and as a duffer rush would seriously injure Auckland's reputation, I at once gave your reporter particulars of the unfavourable result of certain inquiries and tests resulting from my visit to some places in the Waitoa district, where I had been led to think alluvial gold had been found, but which particular finds turned out to be mica, not gold. Your readers must not, however, infer that these tests are the tests for the entire district of Waitoa. On the contrary, they deal with a mere spot or two, or Smith's goldfield would indeed be an auriferous oasis in a desert of mica. I have already been the means of several parties going prospecting, but I should be very sorry to cause any man to spend money and time going to a Waitoa rush until something better is got than what I have already seen. I am satisfied that gold does exist in the locality, and as Maoris are said to have found alluvial gold, I do not in the above remarks desire to discourage further pros pecting. On the contrary, there is little or nothing as yet done to prove or disprove the existence of a payable alluvial field outside of Smith's goldfield. I could not in a brief visit test vast accumula tions of auriferous dirt, which may have taken the forces of actual thousands of years to deposit in the great Thames Valleys, nor am I so presumptuous as to suppose that it I spent my whole life in the search it could solve the question. I believe, however, the vigorous individual trials about to be made will lead to good results, and that alluvial goldfields will be found probably north as well as south of our present reefing district. With a view to aid country settlers and others to test) new ground, I have arranged for the best assays and trial tests to be made at a low charge. Particulars will be supplied on application. Persons unable to spare the money can obtain such information free of charge. —I am, etc., J. H. Witheford. September 29,1887. '

TELEGRAMS.

Napier, this day.

Strong Party Feeling in Napier.

A good deal of ill-feeling still prevails over the election, and it is not altogether safe for supporters of Mr Ormond to be alone after dark. Two or three cases of assault have occurred, but the parties were not recognised at night.

COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &c, To-night.

Abbott's Opera House—Miss Georgie Smithson. Female Maccabe, 8. Agricultural Hall — American Proliquea and Variety Combination, 8. Margere Presbyterian Church — Evangelistic Service, 7.20. St. George's Hall—Concert and Ball, 8. St. Matthew's School-house—Annual Meeting of Home Mission Society, 8. Freemasons' Hall—Lodge St. Andrew, S.C., 7.30. Newmarket Hall—Financial Reform. Meeting-. 7.30. Museum—Professor Thomas on " Beauty in the Animal World," 8. Lower Room, Auckland Tabernacle—Alpha Cricket Club, 7.30.

Rota of Justices at Police Court.

Oct. I.—Messrs W. E. Thomas and T. Thompson

Auction Sales k£>mono\r D. F. Evans-Furniture, &c,, U

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAB, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 1887,

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