EARL AND COUNTESS OF ABERDEEN.

lord Aberdeen's Views on Various Matters.

rr-HE Earl of Aberdeen replied at such length terdny afternoon to the various addresses . - , ere presented to him and the Coun thafc we were °klioc(l to epitomise jjis remarks in order to bring our ort w ithin the compass of three ia. half columns. There was so 1 excellent matter, however, in Ii oble Earl's speeches that, despite the t J. demands upon our pages that each 1 brines forfcn' we now tuke fcll° °PPor" •tv of reproducing those passages of * '1 interest which the inexorable limits BfXcuHiscribed space obliged us to give £S outline of yesterday. » flint to tlic Bums Club. T the course of his reply to the address '(ff'e Burns Club, His Lordship said :— » While people of any particular nationality -, "-j j-^ve opportunities of coming to - i_« and strengthening those brotherly E e7„, which are so natural to ii nf us. and which we We a ■it to 'regard as characteristic of PS", vuo . hail from the same mother P^L while all this, I say, is a great f fit-i donot cloubb that this ,Sooiefcy P'-T opportunities, and uses them too, of -tactical beneficence of an indirect v^i Ido not aiiud° so much to -.m**itv or charitablo benefits, but eIT U) W benefits as might, be '$ Ll in the case of young Scotchmen PPf^ttothis colony and calling for a """T-f friendly advice from those who '~ _«/"«Dcriencc in tho colony as to the &nin which they should turn in «5r to earn an honest livelihood. This ? e c 0 f the ways in which this society V ugnnfer benefits that would tend to the Jantageof the colony as a whole." Christian "Manliness and Clieer fllliMSS.

Replying to the address from the V.M.C. jjisociation and Sunday School Union, Lord Seen said:-" Let me say with regard to what I have seen of the work of Young Men's Christian Associations in the colonies MI have been struck by the vigour and by the healthy tone which seem to charac terise that work. Some time ago I heard a '___ say, ' It is a grand thing to be a young 'man in the nineteenth century.' Very true ; and especially is ita grand thing to be aChris tian young man in the. nineteenth century. i'lf I had the opportunity of addressing those tore whom-1 may venture to call by anticipation my young friends, I would to enlarge upon that topic—the dio-nity of the opportunities afforded by the mere fact of being a Christian ■youn" man at this period of the -world's Ihis-Oiy. We hear a great deal about ob stacles to religion and the inroads of un belief. Unhappily, there is too much truth in'such a view, but on. the other hand we imostremember that there has been develop ment and growth and advance in the 'tehpous life of the country. There ire ': two points especially on which I aniiot help thinking that there have been, t_ io were, an awakening, more especially fc?'we'may regard the work in relation to Vonngmen I may mention, for example, the recognition of manliness as an essential attribute of a Christian young man's charac ter.' Of course, when I speak of manliness, I do not speak of that form of manliness •which is illustrated by a healthy and vigor ..sresort'to the exercise of the body. No .doubt the highest form of manliness is that \i&_ tales utterance from a high, pure taidmotal tone of life. But, even in the (Batteroihodily exercise, there is an im .'pqrtant element) of manliness, and I was teifaM oßlie recognition of this truth :si Sydney.'Upon going one evening to the \bii-ingsof tno Young Men's Christian As sociation in that city, I was enabled to see Meo.'{he'young men of that institution (engaged in gymnastic exercises, and it was really an encouraging sight to see these fine young men doing their best to improve jiheir bodies as well as their minds, and to admire the skill, energy and success Trith which they engaged in that branch of ,-ducation.- There is one other aspect in which we may recognise this truth in (relation to the Christian life, and that is the 'cheerfulness and ■ brightness which should characterise the man who seeks first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. 'IXoW, I suppose my reverend and learned .friends will bear me out when 1 say that ,one of the greatest hindrances ever since the [Commencement of the Christian life has been ■the.ideaso assiduously presented to young i-ien that the Christian life means a life of igloom, and that the Christian is a man of morose tendency. This, of course, is a cahniny, and yet it has had a great effect. :Every young man who cultivates by God's (grace the brightness and cheerfulness char ;acterisfcic of the Christian life assists to clear ;«way this delusion whicli is keeping so many men from a life of piety."

lady Aberdeen and Smiday

School Work. hwlAberdeen continued : —With respect totheaddress of the Sunday School Union, I cannot help wishing that Lady Aberdeen *as spokesman in reply. However, I have pot the slightest expectation that my wish J^ that respect would be gratified. fThe Countess smiled her acquiescence ! *ith this statement.] I may briefly that she is a Sunday- K-<oo] .teacher of considerable experi- J"1 *!:. and 'reference- to Sunday-school brings very vividly before my * a vision of" her Sunday-school, and Kit could be seen it would be the expression thafc could be S«>£ her sympathy with this address. iMul cany away the memory of this Wg with the utmost possible pleasure, jM take it as the greatest; possible "Nf your sympathy and goodwill.

Radicalism- JWncr to the address of the Radical £»na League, His Lordship, inter alia, Sap The time was, and still is in the j"*™ some people, when anything savour-* 58« advanced Liberalism and Radicalism upon with something less than vSmti and apprehension. I do not r>» whether, strictly speaking, I may I .described by my friends as a £H bufc I am quite certain 2\ am a Liberal, which is a 3>fehensive enough term. Some people A ■ j-0 * always recognise the ad van uf'fe-pioneer section of any body of loot' W rin P olifciC 3or otherwise. I t , Klpon the advanced Radical section as Dto ce T rs of Liberalism. If we were all E®. I suppose there would be such <»•__•m our work a*3 t0 engender J u,1on from not looking where a j*??6 . going. Eut when we have .wstinctjoddy of men to undertake the Pionp a? d son,etimes thankless work of few. 1 for one would recognise gladly «4 teV 3of such wovk- H> used to be j, 'J, en a Conservative Government was lj" ce* that the Radicals worked very oi a( ,„,P 01nfc out to people the advantages tC£T a Cerent policy and of putting they =» head of affairs; bufc that when * ft?S! ded tne firsfc tKmS fchafc happened mtb«r * c Moderates stepped in ancl ab it a^. most;of the offices. Ido nofc think mfc-__*' British political posts are ""i tli a istributed am°ng the Moderate goftj^.^vanced Liberals,' ancl a very gb«te to Mr Gladstone. upon nsl. any general remarks Nu-it-r ,Pies> le*> me say how gladly laveJ joy I endorse all thafc you (Jlaclite? ° fc latest of statesmen, Mr m - [At stage bhree cheers

were enthusiastically given for Mr Glad stone.] One of my first and pleasantest duties on returning to Great Britain will be personally to hand Mr Gladstone your address and show him what you have said and written concerning him. No doubt Mr Gladstone has received a great many addresses and letters, but you need not be afraid that a man so instinct with sympathy and with the best instincts of human nature is in any sense careless of or indifferent to any earnest expression of tho good opinion of his fellowmon. Therefore, 1 sny without hesitation that he will be gratified and pleased with this hearty and well-expressed token of your good feeling. It was said by the Great Master Himself, " Woe unto you when all men speak well of you." Gentle men this does not apply to Mr Gladstone (laughter), although he has worked hard for fifty years for the good of his country and his fellow men, and, as your address'has well said, not only for his fellow countrymen, but lor men of every race and creod. It is grati fying to hear from your authority that the vast preponderance of fooling in New Zealand is one of admiration towards this statesman. I do not misunderstand that expression or let myself suppose that all who admire Mr Gladstone absolutely agree with every part of his policy whether past or present ; but you are able to recognisegreatnoss ancl great actions, and therefore accord to him -a tribute of admiration quite apart from any individual endorsement of every part of his policy. I call that a rational and a manly attitude, and I only wish it were more universal in Great Britain. I am ashamed to say ho is assailed there with a bitterness and an .animosity which aro a disgrace and a shame. People who are absolutely—l should say at once—in capablo of understanding true greatness, and also that invariable accompaniment of greatness, the simplicity of Mr Gladstone's character, have made no scruples in hurling every sort of taunt and of imputing against him every unworthy motive. That, surely, is a significant and remarkable thing. It shows one thing—that thoso who accuse the statesman of such motives and resort to such arguments cannot have very great faith and confidence in their own views ; otherwise they would .not resort to such methods.

Home Kulo for Ireland

After eulogising the generous and dis interested devotion of irishmen in all parts of tho world to the welfare of Ire land, and praising highly the courteous and temperate manner in.'which great public questions likeJrish Home' Rule are discussed ■in the colonies, Lord Aberdeen passed on to remark :—People have said to me person ally—people who do not see their way as yet to the granting of this self-government to Ireland-.-" We believe it will come." Now that is a growing belief; and what I say is, "If it is tocome,in God's name let it come quickly." (Loud cheers.) I should like to ask what will be gained by delay. know a great deal may be lost by delay. The grace, power and generosity of a thing may often be lost by delay. But when we know that there is no question of sacrificing anything which is very dear in opinion, when it is not a question of sacri ficing' anything based on moral law— I say when it is proved that tho thing will be beneficial, let it be done heartily, generously, and quickly. ... I shall venture to add that I trust those who arc so deeply interested in this question will maintain a calm, diguified, and especially something more than a hopeful attitude and tone. Judging by the experience of history, you must not be surprised if some time yet elapses before the attainment of what is de sired by those who present this address. The Irish Ladies' Prcsc/it In acknowledging the Irish ladies' presen tation of a beautiful inlaid table to the Countess, Lord Aberdeen referred to it as " a most magnificent and most valuable token of affectionate kindness and thought-ulness. Ifc is-a wonderful work of art in itself. . . . . The pieces of

which it is composed are very numerous, but I do not think they, are more numerous than the kind thoughts which are here re presented, and I know one thing among others which stimulated these pre-eminently kindly thoughts is the efforts which Lady Aberdeen made to carry.into practical form the deep sympathy and lovewhich, Imaysay, she learned to entertain towards the Irish people by developing arid encouraging Irish native industries.. (Loud cheers). Any labour and any trouble which Lady Aber deen may have engaged in for that purpose, has been already a thousand times, re paid by the grateful ancl kind expressions she has received,' and to which this table is a most prominent and eloquent addition. We shall .carry it away as a lasting memento not only of the special sentiments of which it is the outcome and the token, but also as typical of the extraordinarily kindly welcome witli which wo were received here in Auckland." His Lordship also took occasion to express appreciation of " Sir George Grey's eloquent and forcible address," which he delivered the other day in Auckland before leaving for Wellington.

POLICE COURT.

THIS DAY.

(Before Messrs F. Guinness and S. Y.

Collins, J.P's.) Drunkenness. — Three persons were punished for this offence. Vagrancy.—Williinn Kent was charged' with being found by night without lawful excuse in an enclosed yard in Burleigh - streefc, the.property of A. 11. Nathan.- The defendant, -who only a week ago was fined for a similar offence in connection with premises owned by Mr George Staines.said, "This case.! is. the same as the' last."-Sergeant Pratt said thafc lasfc night the defendant was found on the verandah of an unoccupied house in Burleigh-street, having with him a quantity of furniture, being evidently about to take up his quarters.—Mr Gladding, agent for the property, 7. deposed bhafc from in formation received he proceeded to Mi- Nathan's cottage, and found the defendant on the verandah. He asked the defendant what he was doing there, aftd he replied that he had got permission from the land lord. Witness knew this to be a falsehood, but asked the defendant where tha landlord lived. The defendant replied that he lived noxt door. Witness ordered him toclearout, which,' however, he refused to do. Witness then gave him in charge. —Constable Dews gave corroborative evidence. — Defendant made a long rambling statement, the gist of which was that he intended to see tho landlord. 4- The Bench found defendant, guilty, and sentenced him to three months imprisonment with hard labour. Boy Thieves.—John Thomas and Thomas McNamara, two respeocably-dressed little boys, were charged with stealing a num ber of meat pies and polonies, value 4s, the property of Francis Benjamin. —The defendants pleaded guilty. _- The evidence of Constable White, Francis Benjamin (coffee stall keeper) and a lad named Coles was taken. Their testimony showed that the boys entered tbe yard of Mr Bennett, draper, where the coffee stall was kept.. in the day time, and broke into the stall and took the goods. The boy Thomas had been previously convicted of breaking, and entering.— Mr McCulloch, Mc'Namara's stepfather, and Mr Halliday, guardian of Thomas, appeared in Court.—Mr McCulloch gave the first named a good character, and Mr Halliday stated . that the schoolmaster reported favourably as to Thomas's conduct. ■-Mc- Namara was discharged with a caution. Thomas was sentenced to receive six strokes of a birch rod at the hands of a constable, in the presence of his guardian. Grievous Assault. — Hugh Storey, a young wan of the larrikin class, was

charged with assaulting** a , Chinese named Peter Hong Hoy vfith intent to.do him grievous bodily harm. — -Wgeanj? Pratt applied for a remand" for a week, ns the Chinaman had sustained a fracture of the shoulder blade through thehssaiilt, and was otherwise injured, and not'-in a'fit state to appear. He believed that there* was another person- mixed up with tho assault.—Remanded for a week.

Wa.vdeiiing Cattle.—William Lovett, charged with permitting a horse to wander in Cook-street, was fined 5s and costs.

THE MARITIME EXHIBITION.

Public Meeting.

A roßLic meeting convened by His Worship the Mayor was held at the Young Men's Christian Association Rooms last cvenino*. There was a very thin attendance. Amongst those present were Messrs J. Lamb, W. Lodder, W. R. Waddol, Cameron, Jeune, A. Bell, A. H. Nathan, Withy, the Roy. P. Mason, etc., Messrs J. Reid, Phillips, and Boardman. His Worship the Mayor, who was moved to the chair on the motion of Mr Jno. Lamb, explained that he had called the meeting in response to the re quest of a deputation of the Qhamber of Commerce. He mentioned that tho members of the Chamber would ex plain to the meeting tho propqsids regarding the carrying out of the Ex hibition, and ho suggostcd if it was decided to go on with this exhibition that a com mittee should be appointed of the general public to meet the Chamber, and before the public men of Auckland were asked to commit themselves a scheme should bo thought out, printed, and laid beforo the general public. He believed an Exhibition should do Auckland a great deal of good, but whether it should be of an international or moro local character was for after consideration. Ho recollected a local exhibition held here many years ago in the building which was afterwards the Free Public Library, and it was a great success. For the purpose of promoting dis cussion, he would move that it was desirable that an Exhibition should be held here in 1890.

Mr Lodder seconded the motion

Mr G. Aickin supported the resolution, as the matter required careful considera tion beforo anything definite was done. Times were bad just now, and exhibitions were generally thought of when money was plentiful. He admitted tho use of exhibi tions, however, as a method of promoting business and as an educator. He sketched the present views of the Chamber of Commerce on the scope of the Exhibition. He commented on the present lack of enthusiasm regarding tho project, but reminded them that great successes frequently sprang from small beginnings. If the Exhibition were carried out in a business-like way, there would not beany call upon the guarantors.

Mr A. H. Nathan expressed regret at the small attendance, ancl briefly sketched the history of the connection of the Chamber of Commerce with the Exhibition scheme. They were holding an Exhibition in South. Australia on a large acale.and thhtcqloily had not half the popujdtion of X_cw <2ea land. It was, in fact, to be on a very laige scale, and if Mr Aichin k-tiew of thp depression which pxistcd .in that' colony he would not spe*ak of depres sion in New Zealhnd. Then*tHg_,e wjsttie MelbourneExhibitiontp beopeited nextyear,. and it was to be on a grand sealg. In'the case of the Auckland.Exhibitiotj, Sir Julhjs Vogel suggested that the space*shou'ld<*'be jjaid for ; but in Melbourne the spape„wa*s to bo free. In regard to themselves,' there, was'no doubt the time was ripe in New Zea-; land for a large international exhibition. He did not believe in local, or even colonial exhibitions, but in" aft' international exhibi tion which would be supported by all, aud they should take care that all the pro vinces of New Zealand were represented on the Committee. The Chamber of Commerce was not in possession of any details, and only knew what Sir Julius Vogel told them, that the Government would be willing to aid in opening an exhibition in Auckland ; but before they committed themselves they wanted to know if the people of New Zea land, and especially of Auckland, were will ing to assist the Government. Of course the question of finance in this as in everything else was the great subject for consideration. Sir Julius Vogel's suggestion was that the Government would raise the necessary funds if guarantees were given for half theamounfc, about £25,000. With regard to these guar antees no one would be called on to sub scribe now, and it would be close on three year before they would be called on. The object of the meeting that night was to fonnXa committee to go into details and communicate with tho Government, and then they would be in a position to deal with the items. He understood that the amount to be guaranteed was £25,000 by the citizens, and • that the Govern ment would guarantee £25,000, and he did not think tho amount very large, for if they got 250 people to guarantee €100 each, it would be met. They should not let this opportunity slip, for if they did it would be seized by others, and the Exhibition would not only do good to the city, but it would advertise them to the world, and from tho thousands who would come as visitors many would permanently tako up their residence here. He hoped that the Committee would bring out the enthusiasm which at present seemed lacking. Mr Boardman thought the scheme of a Maritime Exhibition too ambitious, and if persisted in it would prove a failure. Mr Lamb read an extract from " En gineering," giving an account of the Havre Maritime Exhibition. He quoted statistics of Victoria and New South Wales to show the good that exhibitions bad done to the commercial and mercantile interests of these colonies. ■

Mr Loclder agreed with the remarks of all the previous speakers except Mr Board man, and reminded him that in tho Union steamers and the New Zealand Shipping Company's steamers they had some of the finest specimens of marine architecture of the Clyde and other places ; and if they could not get vessels from home, they could get; models and drawings. If they went into it with a will, they could carry the Ex hibition to a success, and it would be of the oreatest help to the colonies. '■: Mr George White supported the motion, and suggested that they should look to the banking institutions to supply the greater portion of the guarantee. He also suggested that they should call it the New Zealand International Exhibition, and make it a colonial, not a local affair. Mr Waddel considered the scheme, as proposed by Sir Julius Vogel, impracticable, bufc would support the resolution. Mr Aickin indicated that the guarantee fund should be largely subscribed by the institutions of the colony. The motion was then pufc and carried, and the following gentlemen appointed a Committee,, with power to add to their num ber : _The Mayor, - Messrs J. Lamb, J. Reid, C. H. Osmond, G. Aickin, F. Scherff, S Vaile, R. C. Carr, A. H. Nathan, J. Waymoufch, W. Lodder, W. R. Waddel, Grainier, R. Cameron, G. Harper, E. Withy and J. H. Harrop. A vote of thanks to the Chairman ter minated the meeting.

DISTRESSING OCCURRENCE AT PONSONBY.

'A, MANIAC MUTILATES HIM-

SELF.

About 5 o'clock this morning a man named Walter McLaren Davidson, who resides in Collingwood-street, Ponsonby, attempted to cut his throat and otherwise injured himself, evidently while suffering from a sudden paroxysm of insanity. It ap pears that the unfortunate man is suf fering from religious mania, and has been somewhat depressed of late. Yesterday he was seen sharpening a pen-knife, and re marked that it was sharp enough now. Early this morning his melancholy suddenly changed into intense excitement — a not unusual occurrence. While in this state he stabbed himself on the right side of the neck. The knife was snatched out of his hand, and his wifo, who has only recently been confined, rushed outside in her nightdress screaming for assist ance. Somo_ ncigbours soon appeared, ancl upon being told the state ol affairs, entered the dwelling. Here they saw Davidson bleeding profusely. He was evidently under the opinion that he was carrying out a religious ceremony, for he had seized one of his children and been washing its face with his blood. It was afterwards found that he had also anointed its thighs with the gory fluid. Davidson was soon secured, when it was found that he had also inflicted, a second wound upon himself in tho region of tho scrotum, ap parently with a pair of scissors which wero at hand. '■ '

Dr. Beale was sent for, and was speedily in attendance. He dressed the wounds and told the mother to wash the little one. Upon examination lie found wounds that would give the idea that knife, scissors, and corkscrew had been used by the man to in jure himself. The doctor states that the wound in tbe neck was on the right side. It appeared to be a partially excised, punctured wound, probably dono with a sharp- knife thrust inwards. It was right over the jugular vein, but for tunately escaped touching it—tho knife seeming to have been thrust forward. It had entered the larynx, possibly just the point of the knife having done so. This was evident), as there was a slight escape of air when the patient breathed. There was also a small punctured wound in front of the larynx, from which blood was issuing. The other wound on the body previously referred to appeared te have been inflicted with a pair of scissors. Dr. Beale dressed the wounds, but the patienfc was so wild that he quickly tore off the bandages. Dr. Beale thon administered a strong opiate, and warned the residents of tlio house that Davidson must not be left a minute, lest his excitement should overcome the power of tho opiate, when he might prove dangerous to others as well as himself. At the request of Mrs Davidson, Dr. Beale gave information of the sad occurrence in order that a constable might be sent up to the house until steps could be taken to have the man committed to the Asylum.

As an evidence that this excitement is the result of religious mania, it may be mentioned that tho Rev. Mr Ward, of Franklin Road Primitive Methodist Church, is the only ono who appears to have any in fluence over Davidson. When he commences to pray, thcunfortunateman at once quietens down. At other times he keeps crying out that lie is the "Son of David," and other 'expressions, all of which-tend to support the theory that his present state is the re sult of religious mania. Ifc is stated that lias of late attended some of' the Rev. Mr Dowie's faith-healing meetings at tho Choral Hall, and it is jftlftaight that the consequent excitement '-ihay have had an effect upon his mind. Upon seeing that he could bo of use, the Rev. Mr Ward kindly stayed some time with Davidson. Dr. Beale has no hesita tion in stating that the man is insane, tho result of religious mania, and afc a late hour this afternoon both himself and Dr. Dawson are to meet the R. M., Mr Smith, and certify to tho fact that it is dangerous for Davidson to bo longer afc large, in order that he may be committed to the Asylum. Davidson has a wife and six children, the youngest being born about a fortnight ago As Dr. Dawson had been attending Mrs Davidson he was sent for early this morning, and visited the patient. Subsequently he conferred with Dr. Beale, and the matter was reported to the police. At one time Davidson was licensee of the York Hotel, in Upper Queen and I'itt streets, afterwards he bad a hotel at Kawa kawa. Wjulc at this latter place he acted in a strange manner, and once went so far as to lay a serious charge against his wife, whicli ultimately proved to have no foundation. He then drew out a formal statement against his wife, and at tempted to force her to sign it, which, of course, she declined to do. After this Davidson obtained the appointment of steward on the s.s. Clansman. Here he hadan argument with one of the men. Blows were exchanged, and ultimately he loft his situation. His next move was to make an elocutionary tour through the Waikato, as he possessed undeniable ability in this line. It is not anticipated that any of his wounds will have permanently injurious effects.

PONSONBY BAPTIST CHURCH.

A very interesting meeting was held in the Ponsonby Baptist Church last evening, it beino* the occasion of a welcome soiree to the Rev. J. D. Gilmour, who has been invited to conduct the services for three months. Mr S. Matthews opened the meeting with prayer. Mr R. Fry, a warm, friend of the church, occupied the chair, and earnestly exhorted the brethren to love one another and support Mr Gilmore in his labours. Mr H. May, Secretary of the Church, in a humorous speech said that he hoped eventually to see Mr Gilmore become pastor of the Ponsonby flock. Mr G. W. Owen then welcomed Mr Gilmore in the name of the Church, and Mr E. Turly on behalf of the school stated that the hearts of the children had already gone out after him. Pastor T. Spurgeon spoke of the good qualities of him whom they had met to welcome, being known both here and in England. Rev. C. H. Spurgeon having spoken in the highest terms of him, Mr Spurgeon went on to say that he hoped a tide of blessing would flow throughout the city through his instrumentality. Mr Gilmour thanked those present for their kindly welcome, feeling that ho had come amongst friends, but tfe left it in the hands of the Lord whether he should remain amongst them or depart to another sphere of work. His aim was not to try and please his congregation, but to serve his Master and give Him the glory.

JUBILEE OBSERVANCE.

(by telegraph.—own correspondent.)

Thames, this day. At a meeting of the County Council last nighfc, a -committee was appointed to con sider the best means of celebrating fche Queen's Jubilee. Wellington, this day.

The Friendly Societies Jubilee Com mittee have decided that the demonstration should take the form of a week's carnival, with processions in the morning and even ing (torchlight) of all the societies. Any surplus funds are to be devoted to an orphanage for the city,

SERIOUS FIRE, SYMONDS STREET.

FOUR SHOPS DESTROYED.

Heroic Work toy Firemen

Another of those mysterious and destruc tive fires that have cursed our city, and raised our Fire Insurance rates of late, broke out about midnight last night, caus ing the destruction of four shops standing at the corner of Symonds and East streets, and just opposite the Mortuary Church of the Catholic Cemetery. From what we learn of Messrs W. H. Jones, M.R.C.V.S., and H. J. Ibbot, inspector of tram cars, who first saw the lire, it would appear that it broke out in the shop at tlio corner, recently in the occupation of a Mrs Benjamin, fruiterer, etc., and vacated a few days ago. These gentlemen first noticed smoke, and directly afterwards flames rising from the back part of the roof of this corner shop. There seems no doubt but that it began upstairs, as several persons, our representative amongst them, went upstairs in the burning building and found the ceiling and scrim upon the walls only on tire, the door at that timo being un touched, The gentlemen we have already alluded to had been conversing together at the corner of the Karangahapo Road, near the Caledonia Hotel, when tbey first noticed the fire ; and running up they burst into the back and front of tho burning building, and finding it empty, then assisted to save the stock Tn trado of next shop but one, that is the centre of tho block, occupied by a Mr J. B. Heath, who owes much to these and other gentlemen's activity and assistance. It was noticed that although the house was apparently locked up a broken window upon the ground floor gavo ingress to the building. In a remark ably short time the Kyber Pass Fire Brigade got to work, and soon after Superintendent Hughes arrived with a detachment of tbe Auckland fire-caters. By this time the fire had almost undisputed sway over the corner shop and the adjoining one, occupied till lately by Mrs Coyle, dressmaker, and now standing empty. A four-foot way separ ated these two shops from the next (Mr Heath's), and here a gallant fight took place, but the fire got a good hold of the top of the next block, containing the stores of Heath and Marter, and in the end gutted the upper stories of both buildings, the first block being entirely des troyed. ' Three firemen, who stuck bravely to their posts, which commanded the four foot way between the first block and that of Heath and Marter, twice had a narrow es cape from the verandah falling in. They were obliged to work under this, and only just moved in time on two occasions, as the mass of beams and iron fell with a crash where they had the instant beforo been working. The scene that attracted all eyes, however, was that enacted upon the veran dah of the second block, facing Symonds street. Here, Branchman Findlay (Auckland Brigade.'and Firemen GladdingandStainton (Kyber Pass) were ordered to extinguish the fire in that portion of the building nearest tho next block, whicli was in imminent peril. After two firemen had been hurt, and had retired, these plucky fellows remained at their work in a heat that it seemed impossible for a human bcinjr to stand. " (Jet in at that window," roars Superintendent Hughes and after three attempts, Findlay went through at tho room, the llames pour ing out at tbe window as he did so. The heat, however, made him again retire to the verandah, but the " back of it" had been broken and a few minutes saw the salvation of Mr Wyer's fish shop next door. Foremen Fenton and Moore received injuries whilst attending to their duty, and had to retire. Another twenty' minutes saw the fire out to all intents ancl purposes. Great difficulty was found in coping with the fire on account of the shockingly bad pressure, only some. 201b to the inch. Mrs Webber, who with her husband moved into a small cottage in East street yesterday, next the corner shop, whero tho fire first broke out, says that the last person to enter the corner house that she knows of were a lady and gentleman, who went in yesterday to get something they had bought at a sale there—tome jars, she behoves, they took away. Detectives Doolan, Walker, and Her bert, the latter of whom pressed right into tho burning building at great personal risk, were quickly at the scene of the fire, but without being able to elicit the where abouts of the particular " incendiary rat " whicli had caused the outbreak. Captain Field, with his plucky salvage men, did great service in saving goods, and Senior- Sergeant Pratt and some twenty constables kept the crowd from interfering with the firemen's operations.

Insurances

Upon tho corner block of buildings (owned by Messrs Mowbray), entirely de stroyed, £750 in the New Zealand Insurance Company. Mr Heath's block, partly de stroyed, £400 in the Royal; stock in same office, £300, much being saved. Mr Wyer's premises, only slightly injured by water, were, we believe, uninsured, the furniture and stock being covered to the extent of £90 in the National Office.

ORIGIN OF THE FIRE,

Mr W. Martin says he and a Mr A. S. Edwards were coining up Symonds-street, when at the Karangahape Road corner a man on horseback rode by calling to them that there was a lire "on theliill." Mr Martin, after a moment's considera tion, determined not to ring the bell, but ascertain, by being quickly on the burning premises, what had been fche cause of the fire. Running up to the block, from whence smoke could be seen as cending into the moonlit sky, Mr Martin ran up the four-foot passage between Messrs Mowbray's and Mr Heath's blocks of build ings, and turning to the right looked in at a back window of thafc store lately in occupation of Mrs Coyle. He there saw a glare of light coming ap parcntly down a flight of stairs, through a door opposite fche window. Running round to the East-street side of Messrs Mowbray's block, Mr Martin there saw the fire burn ing through the partition from Mrs Coyle's upper back room into Mrs Benjamin's Mi- Martin then saw some one awakening the Webbers, also two others, probably Messrs Ibbofc and Jones, breaking into the pre mises.

OUR GOLDFIELDS

(by telegraph.—own correspondent.)

Thames, this day,

Saxon. - Colours of gold are seen in the quartz coming to hand, but very'little picked stone is obtained. The reef which was offin the hill ward drive at No. 3 level, has not been picked up, and it would now appear as though ifc has been cut off alto gether, and does not extend beyond the Trenton seam.

The country in the Cambria south cross cut is excellent white sandstone It is pro bable it will reach the Trenton boundary by the middle of next week or thereabouts, when it is expected the drive will bo con tinued by that Company. Should the reef be cut in the present sandstone, it is almost certain to prove gold-bearing.

PARLIAMENTARY NEWS.

(bytelegraph.-special reporter.)

Wellington, this day. Fativc Land at Katlkati- The natives aro petitioning Government for the return of the land taken from them afc Katikafci, and now settled upon by European settlers. They say that after the Government set apart these lands for them, they settled at Hau reki.and never took up arms or sold tho land. They therefore petition through llenati Te Whauwhau. to havo the Europeans re moved.

Anettoncers' Licenses

Mr Samuel considers that the bill to regulate the liaensing of auctioneers of which he has given notice is a very neces sary measure, as the law on the subject diners in various provincial districts. The bill is framed to consolidate existing Aces and ordinances, and render the law uniform throughout the colony.

Amendment of Criminal law.

The Minister of Justice informs me that he does not at present intend to force the Criminal Codes Bill this session, as the House is too unsettled to go into such a large measure. He will, however, prepare a way for it by a bill amending the criminal law, but the features of this mea sure have nob yet been agreed upon by the Cabinet. It will, however, enable persons on trial to give evidence on thoir own behalf, as well as raise the age of consent to 10. Sir 11. Stout asserts that if the Criminal Code Bill had been passed last session the miscarriage of justice in the Hall caae would not have happened, as the Court of Appeal could have ordered a new trial.

Divorce.

Mr Samuel intends to introduce a bill to amend the Divorce and Matrimonial Causes Act. It is framed on the lines of the mea sure introduced in the New South Wales Parliament by Sir Alfred Stephen, who has been in communication with Mr Samuel on the subject. The bill allows a wife to peti tion in case of her husband's adultery within six months before the presentation of peti tion, and to permit either husband or wife to petition in cases of wilful desertion for three years, habitual drunkenness, habitual cruelty for two years, conviction for crime ancl sentence for two years, and incapable insanity. Power will also be given to the Court to prevent publication of evidence where expedient.

The Council Speakership.

The action of the Legislative Coun cil _in throwing out by such a large majority the Dill which was intro duced to keep Sir W. Fitzherbert's seat as speaker of the Legislative Council warm for him caused some surprise. Mr Waterhouse is now to all intents and pur pose Speaker of the Council, and unless he chooses to resign ifc appears that Sir W. Fitzherbert's occupation is gone.

Settlers of Hokianga

The twelve settlers who arrived from Christchurch en route to Hokianga, will settle with their families at VVaimamauka under the Homestead Act. Mr Hobbs interviewed Mr McKerrow to-day with the object of getting roads to the land.

Abolition of Thames District

Court.

The Minister of Justice informs Mr Cad man that tho reason why the District Court at the Thames is to be abolished is that it is not profitable. It involves an expendi ture of £00 per annum, while the revenue last year was only £15. There were only two civil cases last year, and in the latter six months of the year two bankruptcies

Asylum Salaries

Mr Peacock interviewed Dr. McGregor today with the object of impressing on him tho deserability of assimilating the salaries paid in the Whau Lunatic Asylum with those in the South. Dr. McGregor said it would be found, when the Estimates came down, that reductions had been made in the expenditure on Southern institutions, while at the same time ho left Mr Peacock to infer that a slight increase would be made in Auckland salaries. .

mount J-dcn Rifle Range.

Professor Aldis has been in communica tion with the Hon. J. A. Tole, with the object of getting Mount Eden Rifle Range closed. Mr Tole forwarded his letter to the Defence Minister, with a request that the . matter might be inquired into. The whole matter might have been disposed to the detrimeut of volunteering interests had not Major Morrow telegraphed to Mr Tole to-day, asking him not to close the range yet till ho heard from Auckland, where public feeling is strong, and where he said a meeting is to be held.

Mr Moss and Town Ueprcfen

tatives.

At a meeting of town members yesterday Mr Moss agreed with the principle, but as part of tho city was in tho Parnell district; he would require to see that tho Parnell electorate was not destroyed or amalgama ted with the city electorate without their previously knowing what was proposed. He thought it better to postpone the clause tell the number pf members in all had been selected.

Reduction in the Membership,

Many of those who vpted with Mr Mc- Kenzie lasb night for the reduction of the House to seventy one members, were com pletely surprised at tho result of the division. Not; so, however, with the momber for Moeraki himself. He belongs to that small section in the House who do not talk, but as a worker he is mo st active, and his efforts as a Govern ment whip have repeatedly proved his thorough tact and suitability for the post. During the day he was repeatedly ap proached with a view to withdrawing his motion, and assisting to pass Mr Fergus's proposal for. 75 members; but he had thoroughly canvassed the House and con fidently expected_to score a victory.

Captain Hume, Inspector of Prisons, is at present on an official visit to this city.

The owners of the s.s.'Kotuku purpose making regular trips to Shortland, Thames. The first of these trips is to commence to-morrow (Friday) evening, and until further notice she will leave each succeed ing Friday.

A horse attached to a spring cart belong ing to Messrs Donald and Edenborough, and driven by Robert Collier, bolted from O'Rorke-street yesterday afternoon, despite the fact that the driver had chained the wheel. The horse ran along Symonds street, down Wellesley-street, smash ing a handcart tn route, and fin ally collapsed in front of the United Service Hotel, Queen-street. One of the shafts of the cart was broken, and the horse was so much injured that it had to be removed on a " float."

By an advertisement in another column we notice that Mr G. Garrett opens his new and extensive premises in Karangahapo Road, Newton, to-day, with a splendid show of meat. He has erected new and commodious premises on the scene of the late fire, with all the latest improvements in the trade. He has also imported various new machines, so that the public may be assured that nothing but of the first quality will come from his premises. Among the improvements we,notice his cooling cham ber, which is cooled by a patent water blast, thus keeping the meat sweet and the same as though the weather were wintor; also, new patent sausage machine, and machinery for small goods, such as German sausage, saveloys^ Qfo

Second Edition.

LATE CABLES.

[SPECIAL.]

London, May 4. ANGLO-AUSTRALIAN MAILS.

It is reported that Mr Raikes is ar ranging for a three-penny post to Aus_ tralia by sea only.

The Canadian and Pacific Company offer to carry out a mail service to Australia by direct steamers for an annual subsidy of £40,000.

AUSTRALIAN SHIPPERS' CO.

The " Daily News " expects that the Australian Shippers' Company will be

a failure,

REDUCTION OF POSTAL RATES.

(REUTERS TELEGRAM.)

Melbourne, this day.

The Postmaster-General has cabled to the Agent-General at London, re questing him to nslc the British post office to arrange under the new con tracts with France and Italy that ifc shall be possible for letters to be spe cially marked " via Plymouth " thus avoiding contigiential charges and re ducing the rate between England and Australia to 4£d per ounce.

LATE SHIPPING.

The lonic at, Hobart.

Hobart, this day. Arrived, this morning : lonic, s.s., from Plymouth.

Sydney, this day. Arrived: R.M.S. Alameda, from Auck land.

THE ATTEMPTED SUICIDE.

The unfortunate man, Walter Davidson, was brought down to the Police Station in a cab about 3 o'clock this afternoon. Ho was very violent. Constables Bernard, Cotter, and Kelly were in charge of him. He had to be carried from the cab, and kept crying out, "I am not mad ; I am not mad."

THE RESENTATION BILL DROPPED.

(by TELECRAPH - OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Wellington-, this day.

The Premier has dropped the Represen* tation Bill, and has asked those opposed to meet him and arrange a compromise.

r „ THE v STAK, THURSDAY," MAY Xlßß7.'"'

5



£100 Reward. • They cure all diseases of .i, ne .nmadi bowels, blood, liver, nerves, and h dr^y? and £?00 will be paid for a case they vi l not'em'o or help, or for anything impure or in mious found in tnem-Hop ktters. Genuine ooly made by American Co.



Messrs Wheatley and Bouden by adver tisement offer to supply tho " Rugby Boot" specially imported for players of the Rugby ganiQ-



An inquest is proceeding on the remains of the ' late Dr. Home at the Asylum this afternoon. We believe that if every one would use _Amenenn Co.'s Hop Bitters freely there would be much .ess sicklies and misery in tho world, and people aro fafct tindini; thirt out, whole families keeping well at a trifling cost by its use. We advise all to try it. Head: ■ How to Get Sick. - Expose yourself clay and night, si.t too much without exercise, work too hard without r.st, doctor all the time, tako all the vile, nostrums and imitations advertised, and then you will want to know



TN BANKRUPTCY. IN THE COURT OF BANKRUPTCY, HOLDEN AT AUCKLAND. Intlie.ma.tcrof "The Bankruptcy Act, 1883," and of the Bankruptcy of Arthur mercer Gkavatt. of Ponsonby; Builder. Notice is hereby given that I, Arthur Mercer Gravatt, of Ponsonby, in the City of Auckland, in New Zcalannd, Builder, have this daj; filed in the said Court at Auckland, a petition to be adjudged a Bankrupt. A. M. GRAVATT. Dated this sth day of Way, ISS7. G. N. Brassey. Solicitor, Queen-street, Auckland. W. S. COCHRANE] [JAS. DACRE TO-MORROW T (FRIDAY). WALNUT PIANOFORTES, BRUSSELS CARPETS, DRAWING AND DINING ROOM SUITES, CHEFFONIERS, FENDERS AND IRONS, RANGES, CAS STOVES, DOORS, SASHES, HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE. Tho subscribers will sell by auction at their Rooms, Queen-street, To-morrow (Friday), at 11 o'clock, HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, consist ing of Walnut Pianos, Drawing and Dining Room Suites, Brussels and Tapestry Carpets. Fenders and Irons, Hearthrugs, Chif fonnicrs, Iron and Wood Bedsteads, Palliasses, Mattresses, Feather Pillows, Bolsters, Sheets, Chests Drawers, Withstands and YV are. Dress ing Tables. Cano and Wood Chairs, Round and Square Tables, Cutlery, Plated Were, Couches, Perambulators Lamps, Crockery, Ranges, Register Grates, Gas Stoves, Doors, Sashes, Blankets, .Mirrors, -tc., &c, &c. SAMUEL COCHRANE & SON, Auctioneers. IMPOUNDED in the Mount Eden Public Pound on May 3, 1887, hy the Ranger, 1" Chestnut Horse, with white hind feet and whito down face. It not released before the 20th day of May, ISB7, will be sold to pay expenses. A. CROCKETT. Poundkeeper. _ l. CJTEAM TO SHORTN Ji_W^h^7 LAND ONLY. %WmkWiii^ The s.s. X 0 T U TC U Will leave for Shortland, TO-MORROW (Fri day) EVENING, May 6. Carrying Cargo only, and each succeeding Friday until further notice. For Freight apply to THORNTON, SMITH, & FIRTH. COMINGJVENTS. BTeetings, &o, To-night. Agricultural Hall—London Circus Company, 8. City Hall—Scottish Concert in aid of Dunedin Burns Statue Fund, 8. St. Luke s Church, ltemuera-Recital of Sacred' Music, 8. Drill-shed—N.Z. Regiment of Artillery, "A" Battery, 7.30. V.M.C.A. Rooms—Evangelistic Service, 7.00. Auckland Tabernacle—_N.Z. Baptist Missionary Society Meeting, 7.30. Rota, of Justices at Police Court. May 6—Messrs J. G. Corbett and W. Duncan. Auction Sales To niorrow. G. Lewis—English and Colonial-made Furni ture, etc., 11. Arthur & Buddie—Weekly Por.ltry and Pro duce Sale, 11. Hunter & Nolan, Durham Yards—Horses, etc., W. J, Dowdon—Weekly Produce Sale. 11. E. Leydon—Produce, Furniture, etc., 11. S. Cochrane and Son—Household Furniture. etc., 11. ' Hesketh, Aitken & Co. — Poultry, Produce Fruit, etc., 11. B. Tonks & Co.-Fmit an d Merchandise, 11. I Paget 5s Ralston—Produce, Furniture, etc., 11,