Wellington 12.40 HkW®- -vnd north-west gale nine and ** The match was to and Saracens clubs ; <t n fSe members of the Links j"everal° * iy have resolved to "5* » fty default to the Sara- therefore hold the J,! next yew- pretty busy m t aJd a goocl few hundreds hands at from are firm now with of Sftoss2d. and they a fa the !IS» bliyer n,f D alivto the encouraging Srl* an b d v ; sand sellers at that f«, bein* buJ LnpinTrentons at Isbd faff**?**'**'*'* P*"™' v o ,erv successful entertain- Iβ* nig \L at Graf ton Road school- piano fund of the eft "> ald t A Taylor presided, and Ji The follow «* a3a ,fUs "one through-Piano Kfe a«d Mr Wiseman ; * " Za ThJ"'Mr Green ; recitation, '*lollSrS'I ollS rS'- vocal duet, "Albion," ~H ls g Uiey, . « Dun |)lain duet, Misses pF^ A Srod eritation,Missßibby, Main and Blackburn, ? srtet L andGatland ; violin solo, Mr jests Green Wilson . rccl tation, Stsin?.! 6 °,? o 'c o n£ " I Fear no Foe," Mr **rtt "Music and her Sister Main and Blackburn ; trio, Imeetin* of the Auckland A S eM JEcricfefc Association will be *^ 05e S i he Y.ivI.C.A. Build "tS&S are to be made for this iStitionfor the cup presented Social travellers.

ASSAULT AND ROBBERY.

OKOK MAN'S EXPERIENCE.

,«£ BEnroKD and Margaret Carroll, Lfcdiod. * ere cbar " ed afc the PdiCe L this corning with having, I, to 27th September last, feloni- Lenlted Robert Wilson, and there L then feloniously stolen and carried Kn the person of the sau Robert Km money, a silver watch valued Kid guard valued at £4 and a BJSatfc The facts o this case Ron the 27th September last a cab- IlortedtoConstable Abrams that as he tlUomeabout 1 o'clock in the morn. Infvhen in Cook-street, he heard a Esllout "Police!" He went in the Ejo indicated, and saw a man who Ely drunk lying down in the street KjUfntTs 'residence. He saw Paddy By aid heard Maggy, his wife, say to t'ffmale, "I have got his chain," Rivanot got his chain !" and he con- X ; knowing the character of the Wfc that the drunken man had been El Hβ informed Constable Abrams, Kql the drunken man as reported. Bank that he had been robbed of ■tos named. Sergeant Pratt stated Htault and robbery alleged took Hi tk 2?th of last month, but the Hijkad hot yet been recovered. It 'S ,■ ■ Ito be in a well at the resi •M the prisoner, and he asked for a Hfeaweek in order to permit of its Hby the police. A remand was HMingly.

MINES ON THE RAILWAY.

■ eePOSED IARRIKINISM.

j fflpw a week's 'watching Detective 1 i ,l obtaining what ap" i Hfciki.clae to the mystery connected ! > H|n frequently dificovcrecl od the 8 BBtaflrayline, to theimminent dange r ;. MUN" 3 - At the I'olice Court this n MKiyoatli 13 years of age, named 9 s^ ■Ww> fl'as charged with 3- mfedioily and unlawfully placed two sa railway line at Morning-side, id pfciMstated that the evidence in Iβ 118 entirely circumstantial. The i. Wjr l SM not actually seen to place n- fSr. Bl^'ll6 ! but the evidence would or to prove that no one eel committ,;tl the alleged (!• ■Jγ"^ 1 ™ Hughes deposed that ■TOience of coroplainti.s made of , a 8 Jffiv™? placed on the railway in was yesterday morning id' ! |K^f at ' ie Kaipara line, and when ml ■"•pse's crossing, at Rocky :ei ] Sf 1 be got off the lino. E. towards- the Mount Eden ing M? 1 *! distance of about 100 yards, ir >" SK 8 " H " 00^tr " cl; io!i on that portion Jlr fttf', ™revere three boys, one of red ■X', B ™Prisoner, gathering ferns by Yβ Btr c, He Silw the Prisoner ,nts sight of him [by being.between them. an IBstei A? saw tlie Prisoner rom IRZ llen Prisoner Raw ;ber mmiri X a » hard as he '^HCA^ Eclen statio » fud ' IfeU- Ir er - Prisoner kicked two off the line.. He could >010, of the stones. trio, took him into cus-

its Mpk t« N $ BIS* 83 very )ei . KffiiW with tho ot, j' ecfc ° f f *Kb £ not aye seen what fot ■EW con ne3 .s i»l2"F eco gn'se them. lay B*teT c evidence to the effect acre, », on the line after had P«sed, and the ICHS and his two Id ° comp anions call HI 'i-'iS 6 * 8 Mu s hes was > f St, Bk]£*^ Te came after me ■dneS- address. ' an( S ■ ofthe three h °y* kick two * cc * said ho would r tllye^«'fi pWl the Stones eC SBRfeC^ cU y where to cr th 6 Industrial not like to ■I >IrS w *?" Ind «sfcrial TaP erS mMs * tt? 5 f a ?e, and in Ir&fo ■■Wμ course Works ■^■rV , ftey at amounfc was >« ,^ ,vas discharged

POLITICAL GOSSIP.

THE CAUCUS.

FULL ACCOUNT OF THE

PROCEEDINGS.

UNITED ON THE RETRENCHMENT

CRY,

OPINIONS OP NEW MEMBERS

(FROM OUK SPFX'IAL REPORTER.)

Wellington, this day.

Tiik much-talked-of caucus of the Opposi tion party took place yesterday afternoon, and the result is considered to be perfectly satisfactory, although no definite decision was arrived at. The feeling was unanimous with respect to retrenchment, and while it seemed to be the desire of the majority that protection and the proposed repeal of the property tax should be left till next session, others were of opinion that if Sir Julius Vogel or his party were to introduce resolutions bearing on these questions, they would be placed in an awkward position with respect to the Government by being compelled to give the proposition their support. The doubtful Northern members showed a decided dis position to put Major Atkin&on in office in order to

Keep Sir Julius Vogel Out,

and also to give him an opportunity of pro posing a scheme of retrenchment. The general feeling with regard to the Premier ship appeared to be that Major At kinson should take it, although one or two were in favour of a new man altogether. Your readers will doubt less be interested in the proceedings at the caucus, aud I have therefore gone to some trouble to get an idea as nearly as possible of what took place. There were present :—

Messrs Fulton (in the chair) Major Atkinson Moat All- Allan Monk ~ Anderson Menteith ~ Beet ham Scobie Mackenzie ~ Bruce McKenzie ~ Barron Mitchelson ~ Buchanan Moss ~ Carroll MeArthur ~ Cowan Merchant ~ Dodson Mills ~ Feldwick MacCregor ~ Fergus Dr. Newman ~ Fisher Peacock ~ G oldie Pearson Sir George Grey Rhodes Mr Hilsop ' G. Richardson ~ Hobbs Ross Major Hainlin Russell Mr Izard Seymour ~ Lawry Stewart ~ Valentine T. Thompson ~ Wilson . Taiwhanga ~ Why to R. Thompson ~ Ward Taipua „ Withy

This made a total of 48, and 9 others were accounted for. At the very outset of the meeting . Major Atkinson gave those present fully to understand that he did not desire them to pleige themselves to any thing. He made some remarks on the pie sent position of the country, and pointed out that we were

Coins to the Bad

at the rate of £21,C00 per month. He ex pressed pleasure that so many of those present were pledged to retrenchment of a drastic chaiacter. His proposal was that before any addition was made to the taxation of the country, they should endeavour by retrenchment and economy to faring the income within the expenditure. He wished to discuss the position with them before ar riving at any resolution, and then they might adjourn till Saturday. They must endeavDur to secure the victory ■ which the country had placed within their reach, and so save themselves from going back to Sir J. Vogel. True, there might be some little difficulty in the selection of a Premier, but ho would be prepared to loyally support any member chosen for that position by the party. There could be no difficulty in the way, provided that members were prepared to

Sink Ambition for the Good of tbo

Country.

Tins statement by Major Atkinson ap peared to create a very good impression, and it was followed by a discission of a general character, in which most of those present took part. Sir George Grey endorsed much of what had fallen from Major Atkinson. He said he hoped self-abnegation would actuate the minds of all who were present. Mv Fisher followed Sir George, and pointed out that really the only question before the country wasJ retrenchment on a scale that would bring our expenditure within our reduced income, and place the finances of the colony in such a condition that we would again command the confi dence of those in the Old Country who have a potent interest in New Zealand because of the money advanced by them. He ex pressed the hope that the party iormed would

Put an End to tne Unsound Finance of the last two or three years. He would also support whichever Government was formed, and hoped it would be strong enough to stand not only this session, but also the whole Parliament. Mr Peacock pointed out the desirability oi guarding against any attempt to break up"the party by the introduction of other questions. They should confine themselves for this session to retrenchment. Captain Russell-expressed pleasure at the stronf feeling that was being manifested againsb any coalition, and hoped the pos sibility of such a contingency would be removed by members from their minds. His own party believed that if such a coali tion were brought about it would never stand. ~ Mr Seymour concurred in the disastrous results that would follow a coalition, and this brought Major Atkinson to his feet again, and he informed the meeting that he had told His Excellency that he could bo No PArty to a. Vo ß el Combination. Mr Dodson expressed himself satisfied with the explanation made by Major Atkin son, and thought we should go in for prac tical retrenchment. His own impression with regard to the choice of a Premier was that it would be better for us to have a new man altogether, rather than one who had previously been in office; the country W Mr e M a ar C cS e \lid not agn. with Mr Dodson, and thought that in the present crisis the country wanted a leader well known and respected, both at Home and ab MrHislop considered it had been a mis take to take in Sir Julius Uγ were tryiag to find a perfect man. It would be a mistake to take chance and throw aside the old andtxied men. The simple issue beforei them, was ie trenchment, to be brought about by con-, stitutional measures. niin ~_ Mr Bnrron said that to him the question was not of men but of «ea«ur» TTj iy little time was required to bring about ,a drastic scheme of retrenchment, but it any Mnttry was formed that preferred office to ddngtlirdutyin this .JW* mve them a short shrift. what they wanted was remorseless and cold-.blooded putting in of the pruning kmie.

Mr Moss considered the object on which they were united was retrenchment), and no one could so well take that in hand as Major Atkinson. His acquaintance with the Trea sury marked him as the one for the duty. Major Atkinson would be entitled to a generous support and a liberal con struction of his action if he undertook the duty, which he hoped he would. Hβ thought the proper course would bo to

Pledge Themselves to Support Major

Atkinson till the Financial Statement was made, on the understanding that the statement was made within a fortnight of the new Ministry assuming oifics; also on the understand ing that the salary of Ministers in the new Government should not ex ceed one thousand a year. This he regarded as the key to any retrenchment they might undertake. Retrenchment would thus be affected, but it wan not to be supposed that he and others who con sidered protection to native industry of vital importance would not expect that also to be considered by any Government they supported. Only they might waive that till retrenchment was effected pro vided that no time was lost,so that the one might not be entirely shelved by the other. Mr Buchanan eaid it gave him the greatest satisfaction to learn that there was no prospect of a coalition with Sir Julius Vogel. The people of hie district gave him positive in structions to do his best to

Keep Vogel Out ot Power.

He would take the same course as M r Barron and give short shrift to any Minis' try that did not fulfil the expectations the country on the question of retrench" ment.

Mr Beetham facetiously remarked that probably the young dogs present would consider the meeting , purposeless, but the young doers were there to hear the old dogs. He was pleased at the disposition shown for re trenchment, and to keep clear of a Vogel coalition. It had been said that he (Mr Beetham) was an aspirant for 'office, but he was entirely innocent of anything of the kind. He was sent there pledged to vigorous reforms, and ho was

Prepared to Sacrifice Himself

to his country for his country's good. Mr Hobbs announced that he would not follow any man unless he was prepared to go in for drastic retrenchment. Mr Pearson said he was one of the four black sheep who came from Canterbury. He was in favour of drastic retrenchment, and preferred a united New Zealand to a united Canterbury. In a word hie district was

Against Both Vogel and Atkinson, and he would have to carefully consider whether he would follow either of these leaders. He promised, how& $r, to j;ive a definite answer at next meeting, Mr Whyte wished to know how many leaders they had at command, and if Sir P. Whitaker was one.

Major Atkinson gave him to understand thai in the present condition of Sir F. Whitaker's health, he could not undertake the position.

Mr .Carroll said that as one of the native race he was there to assist the party in terests of Europeans, to help vigorous re trenchment, and to secure better legislation in the direction of native lands for his own people. Mr Beethain reminded those assembled that attempts were being made to

Upset tho Present Party, and he hoped they would stand shoulder to shoulder till the end of the present session, and carry out a great scheme of retrench ment.

Mr Whyte asked who was likely to fill the position of Premier, and was informed that Sir John Hall was not veil enough in health and Mr Orruond not willing-. M r Fergus expressed pleasure at tho de sire shown for retrenchment, and at the co-operation of Sir George Grey. He would like to uee Major Atkinson as Premier rather than as Treasurer, but would support him for either position because he did not believe he could be done without.

Mr It.'Thompson wanted to know what amount they would go in for in effecting re trenchment, and wiv3 informed that that was a matter of debate.

Mr Goidie said he had been out for Auck land to advocate drastic retrenchment, but there were other planks than this in theplat form. He inquired what the party would do in the event of other questions in the pro gramme laid Jown by himself, such for instance as

Protection Being Introduced by Sir

J. Vogel

It was stated in reply that the Government only could introduce questions of this kind, and that these questions would not be raised this session, as it was the intention to have a short cession, md the great sub ject of retrenchment would be likely to occupy the whole attention. Mr Seymour pointed out that although no one but the Government could intro duce the question of protection, it was competent for private members to move a resolution on a subject on which members might be compelled to vote against it. It was explained that such a resolution could not be brought on unless the party willed it. Mr Feldwick legietted that so much had been said about retrenchment and that co many members had taken up the cry of the Financial Reform Association. It was a great mistake that the

Salaries of Poor Officials

should be cut down when other and larger questions ought to be discussed. He thought their way should be prepared to submit a policy something beyond the mere question of retrenchment. He would like to be in the position of

Being Allowed to Bat

when and as often as he liked till the Government party would carry out his views.

Mr Monk before pledging himself said he would like to know what; the party was likely to do. It was a great mistake for people earning £300 a-ycar to spend £400. This was what we were doing now as a country. We. were living far beyond the resources of the country, and bringing up children to natal infamy. He and those who were witii him were not going in to make reductions in sweepers' salaries, but were going to

B Bin With tbe Governor

and Ministers themselves. He did not wish to throw any apple of discord down, bub would like to know how much- they were going to reduce the Estimates by. He would uke the Treasurer to show what the expenditure of the country was, and also where reductions could be made that would bring it within the income. He would also like to see the purchase of lands from the natives free to all, restricting only the quanity of land so purchased. Mr McGregor said it was desirable that the information obtained that afternoon should be allowed to filter through the minds of young members between that time and next meeting, and he therefore moved the adjournment of the caucus till next afternoon at 4 o'clock. Mr Roes seconded the proposal. He said that in his district ifJwre was a strong prejudice against e&llier Major Atkinson or Sir Julius Vogel holding the position of Premier, and he inKjjfWted that Sir.F. Whitaker be chosen.

The caucus then adjourned till 4 gfoloek this (Friday) afternoon.

PATRIOTIC POLITICIANS.

Modoat Members of the Opposition

Quite a sanguine view of the self-J*k«ega tion of the members of the Opposition gfcrty with respect to the desire for office it token by the " Press," which says: "Install of being harassed by rival claim to office,

instead of having to face the insoluble problem of the division of 6 portfolios among 20 members in certain peril of losing 14 votes, Major Atkinson has received unreserved pledges of support from the very men who hod the strongest claims, accompanied by assurances of their entire willingness to leave the selection of the Cabinet absolutely to the leader to be chosen by the party. It stands to reason, of course, that when men like these set such an example, those whose claims are altogether inferior to theirs will feel bound to follow it, and in effect there is good reason to believe that not a single member will urge any claim of his own or waver in his allegiance to the new Government because he happens to be left out. The Opposition thoroughly realises two things—first that the claims of individuals are wholly ob literated by the urgency of the political position, and secondly that in a party con stituting a powerful majority under a Minis try whom they followed with pride and en thusiasm every member will be a man of in fluence in Parliament and in the country. Thua it has come about that Major Atkinson instead of being bewildered among rival claimants finds a difficulty in securing for colleagues the men whose services are essen tial to the prompt and effective execution of the policy which the people have demanded. Each seeks to distinguish himself by stand ing out."

THE LATEST.

MOST RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

CAUCUSES THIS AFTERNOON".

THE RETRENCHMENT PROPOSALS.

RAILWAY BOARDS

There is no fresh development of the crisis this morning, but Major Atkinson is very active. At the adjourned meeting this afternoon a leader will probably bo chosen, and the member for Egmont, or Sir F. Whitaker is certain to be appointed. Some of the Northerners want Sir F. Whitaker (who is in bettor health than he has enjoyed for some time past) to be made Attorney-General, while the Otago section advance the claims of W. Hislop. I hear that Major Atkinson will not make any calls to the Legislative Council.

So far as Mr Montgomery is concerned, the present member for Akaroa assures me that his constitution is so undermined as to necessitate his making a lengthy stay in Europe. Of course it is difficult to say what the proposals for vigorous retrenchment proposed by the new cabinet will be, but I think you may take it tor granted that a first step will be the reduction of the ministeritl salaries and allowances (the number of portfolios remaining as at present) and of tho honorariums substituted education will also bo pro posed. It the Defence, State Forest and Education vote, and the repeal of the Crown and Native Lands Hating Act will bo insisted on. The present Opposition are also agreed as to the necessity for placing the railways under the management of a, non-political boar.l, but no action in that direction is likely to be taken before next session. When it is undertaken I shall not be surprised to find the Hon. E. Richardson appointed as Chairman, special provision being made for freeing him of disabilities for the position consequent on his being a member of Par liament.

A meeting o? the yonng Canterbury party is convened for two o'clock this after noon.

SPORTING NEWS.

The racehorses Guy Fawkes and Omata were submitted by auction at Hunter and Nolan's to-day, and were both knocked down to Mr J. B. Williamson at 45gns. and

36gns. respectively.

Acceptances and general entries for the Onehunga Spring Meeting close to-night.

THAMES NOTES.

(BY TELEORAPH —OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Thames, this day. Ix the Warden's Court yesterday, before Mr Stratford, Mr Button, on behalf of Thomas Snell, applied that all ground ex eeeding 30 acres contained in the prospector's claim (Mcßrinn'a) at Hikutaia should be awarded to him. During the hearing o the case it was stated that the holding marked out by Mcßrinn contains 56 acres 30 perches, being over 26 acres in excess of what he is allowed by law. The case was adjourned until the 20th inst. to enable plaintiff to produce further evidence. At the meeting of the County Council Mr McDonald, Secretary to the Thames Drainage Board, applied for payment of £240, being the amount due for drainage contributions. It was decided to reply that it would be paid as soon as possible. A plaint was lodged a day or two ago by Michael McMahm, praying that he should be awarded the excess ground pegged out by Messrs Lourie and Plummer as a pro spector's dam at the new "find" at Waiomo. It was stated in the Warden's Court yester day, however, that the case was likely to be amicably settled, and an adjournment was granted until the 20th inst. Two lads named Robert Dunlop and William Scott were aiTested yesterday afternoon on a charge of stealing a silver watch and gold chain last December nt Hape Creek from David Adamson. Edward Scott, father of the accused, is also charged with receiving the property.

TELEGRAMS.

."Wellington, this day.

Te Apuni, a Maori chief of some influence in the Hutt District, died last night. Ho is said to be about 94 years old.

Chiustchurch, Thursday. At the Supreme Court to-day James Stevenson convicted of horse stealing was sentenced to 12 months probation. C. Thomas Harris and Daniel Marks pleaded guilty to stealing additional articles from the Direct Importing Company. Sentence was de ferred.

A FOOTBALL SQUABBLE.

[by telegraph.—press association-.]

Wellington, this day. At a meeting of the Rugby Union a series of resolutions were brought forward for the purpose of restoring power to the hands of senior clubs who are at present out-num bered by junior delegates, the latter were, however, victorious by one vote and the seniors had to withdraw their motions till the beginning of next season when they will make another attempt to deprive the junior clubs of their dormant position.

THE ABANDONED CHILD.

PROCEEDINGS AT THE ADJOURNED

INQUEST,

AN OPEN VERDICT.

The adjourned sitting of the coronial in quiry into the circumstances attending th e death of a child whose body was recently found at the rear of the Thistle Hoteb Queen-street, was held at Gleeson's Hotel, Customs-street West, at 10 o'clock to-day. Dr. Philson, coroner, presided, and the fol" lowing composed the jury :—Messrs Thos" Thwaites (foreman), John Lynch, S. Me- Connell, W. Pressley, W. Chappell and John Coldicut. Sir William Wasteneys (instructed by Mr W. J. Napier) watched the proceedings on belialt of Mary O'Connor, the mother of the child. Mr Thomas Cotter was also present in a professional capacity to watch the pro ceedings. Mary O'Connor was stylishly dressed in a black redingote, black dress, brown suede gloves and a much-be-ieathered brown velvet hat. During the whole of the Kitting she kept her face buried in a white cambric handkerchief.

Prior to the taking of the.evidence the Coroner informed the jury that they must not misunderstand their province—they were not present to try Mary O'Connor, but merely to inquire as to how the child came by its death.

Detective Richard Doolan deposed to finding the body of the child on Monday, September 26th, and its removal to the morgue by Constable Martyn, whose evi dence was previously given. On the 27th ult. witness, accompanied by Detective Herbert, proceeded to the Thistle Hotel, and from inquiries made there, they were led to suspect that Mary O'Connor was the mother of the child. They examined her bed, and found the sheets stained with blood ; also her nightdress. Witness saw Mary O'Connor, told her of his suspicion, and asked her if she had any objection tc be examined by a medical man. She oftered no objection, and was examined by Dr. Tennent in the presence of Mrs Coylo, licensee of the hotel. The doctor advised her removal to the Refuge, which was done. She mado no admission to witness.

By Sir William Wasteneys : He did not examine Mary O'Connor's bedroom very closely. Did not see blood on the iloor. The sheets (produced) were taken from her bed.

Detective Patrick Herbert also gave evi dence. After the lirst sitting of the inquest witness went to the Thistle Hotel, where he found Detective Doolan with Mary O'Connor. Witness showed her the brown skirt produced at tho inquiry, and in which the body of the infant had been found. She denied that she had ever seen it before and said that it did not belong to her. Witness then accompanied the other detec tive and the woman to the Hospital, and while waiting at the Hospital for a permit to admit her to the Refuge she asked witness if the baby was buried yet. Witness ropl'ed in the negative, whereupon she asked if she would be allowed to hoc it before burial. Witness replied that it would be better not. She then admitted that it was her child; that it was born on the Saturday previous before dark; and that she believed it was dead when it was born. She also stated that she had got the skirt in the cellar of the hotel and put the baby whjie it wa.s found on the same day that it was born. Witness understood her to mean that the child was dead born.

By Sir William Wasteneys: I did not caution her before she inucle the state ments, as she was not in custody. 1 cannot give the exuct words that she used in stating- that the child was hers. Sergeant Clarke here asked the Coroner if it would not be well to re-call Detective Poolan to depose that Mary O'Connor had been taken into custody that morning. The Coroner : That has nothing to do with us.

Sir W. Wasfceneys : On what charge has she been taken into custody ?

Detective Doolan : On a charge of con cealment of birth.

Mrs Mary Coyle, licensee of the Thistle Hotel, deposed that she knew Mary O'Con nor, who was lately in her employment in the capacity of general servant. She had entered witness's employ on September 2nd. When Mary came to her iirst, wit ness asked her if she was a '' married lady." She said she was not but that she had been living with Mrs O'Connor who kept the Eaglo Hotel. Witness then had no hesitation in accepting her services. Mary O Connor slept in a room by herself over the kitchen. She continued in good health until 24th ulfc., when she complained of a headache, and witness told her that after she had Rent in dinner she might go and lie down. This she did about 2 p.m. At. 5 o'clock witness pent np to see if she was yet able to get up. She re plied that she was not able to get up, that her head was still bad. Witness sent her up a cup of tea at about 6.30, and the girl Celia McGee brought down news that Mary had been retching as if she had had a bilious attack. Witness went up at 8 o'clock and found her un dressed and in bed. In reply to enquiries -by witness the woman Paid she had been very ill whereupon witness told her that if she was not better in the morning she need not get up. In the morning at 7 o'clock, however, ?Mary brought a cup of tea to witness's' room. Witness remarked in her mind that she did not look so stout as she generally did, but had no suspicion. She went about her work just as usual, and went to church at about 7.30 a.m., returning before 8.30. She cooked dinner and tea, and Avent to church in the evening. On Monday witness heard of the° discovery of the body of a child in the hotel yard. On Mon day and Tuesday Mary O'Connor attended to'her work just as usual. Witness then referred to the visit of the detectives, and the woman's denial of any knowledge of the child, and the visit of Dr. Ten nent. The doctor asked her to make a confession and save further trouble. She still persisted in her denial, and the doctor then, with her consent, examined her and advised her removal to the Hospital. Witness subsequently asked her who was the father of the child, when she mentioned the name of a young man. Witness never observed the woman making baby's clothes. The Coroner here asked Detective Doolnn if any baby linen had been found in the woman's boxes.

Detective Doolan : No,

Examination continued : Witness was present when Detective Doolan examined her boxes, but saw no baby linen. Witness never saw the young man who Mary stated was the father of the child until after the body was found. He then came to her hotel,but only as an ordinary person. By Sergeant Clarke : I did not ask Mary if she was a married woman in consequence I of my observing anything peculiar in her appearance. I did it merely because once before I had had a married woman ia my employ who had passed as a single w °By an 'Sif William Wasteneys: Mary's general conduct gave me a very good im pression of her character. She attended church regularly. By Mr Cotter: When the man came to the hotel he said to me that Mary had been telling lies about him—that he was not the fathe? of the child. By the Coroner : I did not see the skirt produced until it was shown to me by De tective Herbert. When Mary complained of her head, she said that her menstruation i had not been regular for 10 months.

William Butler, barman at the Thistle Hotel.identified the skirt in which the child was wrapped as one which had been for some time in the hotel cellar.

Dr P. Honeyman's evidence as to the post mortem was read over. It was to the effect that the child had been born alive, and that death had probably been caused through hemorrhage through the naval string being unsecured, or perhaps suffoca tion.

Dr. Honeyman was again called, and de posed that on Wednesday 28th hehad madea further autopsy of the child. He examined the abdominal cavity, and had the child measured and weighed. Its length was 19 inches. The navel string was 19£ inches long. He believed that the string had been separated from the placenta at its connection. He thought that the child had been born while the mother had been standing, and the rupture of the string caused by the child falling to the floor. The weight of the child was 6Albs. The brain was healthy, and there was no evidence of injury. There was no appearance of fracture of the skull. The stomach contained some green, glarial, slimy substance, but no food. The body had never been washed or attended to, and death might have been caused by neglect and exposure. He, however, could not say if the child had been exposed. He was certain from the expansion of the lungs that ifc was born alive. A child born under such circumstances might have died through the mother being weak and unable to attend to it.

By Sir William Wastneys : In case of a first birth a woman would not know what to do with the child. He believed that the child had been born suddenly, which would account for the rupture of the cord,but that was merely a theory. This concluded the evidence.

The Coroner in summing up said that it was pretty well established that the child was born alive, but there was no evidence that the mother had anything to do with its death beyond not doing jwhat she had done and consequently he could not see that the jury could do other than return an open verdict.

The jury after a few minutes' consultation returned the following verdict: "That the newly-born female child whose death was concealed, died either from hemorrhage through the navel string being left untied, or from suffocation at the time of its birth, and was found dead and exposed, but whether the neglect Ava? caused through the ignorance or incapacity of the mother, or malice with wilful felonious intent, there is no evidence to show."

SHOCKING ACCIDENTS.

[BY TELEGRAPH—PRESS ASSOCIATION*.]

TiMARU, this day. A man named Matthew Campbell, aged 22 yenrs, who was standing on the wharf close to a pile head while the crane was working, had his loins and back crushed by the re volving part of the machine. He was taken

to the Hospital. His recovery is not pro bable, bat so far he seems to be doing pretty

well. Grkymoutji, Thursday,

John Ellingham, a young man working on the new bridge at Arnold River, Wat son's contract, fell off the staging 40 feet and fractured his skull. When picked up he Mas dead, his brains protruding. He fell on a log at the bottom of a roaring torrent underneath. Deceased was 19 years of age. His father resides at Cobden. His body was swept into the Orey River. His foot slipped on the staging while fetch ing a hammer.

OUR GOLDFIELDS

Thames, this day.

Cambhia.—The leader in the crosscut at No 3 level was again broken down this morning, when a good haul of 401bs speci mens was obtained. The stone is of ex cellent quality. Colours of gold are still visible in the face.

Cambria.—The leader in the crosscut at No 3 level still shows gold freely. A parcel of 101 bs specimens was obtained when breaking down late yesterday afternoon, leaving colours of gold showing in the face.

THE WAITOA GOLDFIELD.

PROPOSALS TO OPEN THE LAND.

Hamii/tox, this clay. Titk Waitoa golilfields is now the allabsorb. ing question, and public expectation is being raised to a high pitch. Me_n are already making their way to the ground but I would counsel men who are in search of work to wait until operations are com menced and the field actually opened up before exposing themselves to priva tions and delays by rushing to the ground prematurely, ltseemsthediflicultyinthe way of throwing the land open to the public can be easily met without any aid from the Government. The " Waikato Times" in an excellent article yesterday morning makes the following proposals to property owners:—" They have the game in their own hands, and can afford to 'go alone.' Let them, or let any more enterprising one among them,-proclaim their own goldfields. Having proved the existence of gold, as several have already done, let them throw their estates open to prospecting on certain terms, say, that each prospector take out from them a permit to prospect, paying £2 for the same, and granting to such as find gold or are satisfied, with the prospects of the field a right to'take up claims of, say, ons sixteenth of an acre for one man's ground, in large parties, for which a rent of one pound per annum, or such a sum as may be agreed upon for each man's ground shall be payable to the owner of the land for the use of it. This would pay all parties, if only one tenth of the gold were found thab the tests hitherto made have indicated. The difficulty of providing the necessary machinery for treating the wash dirt would be met by capitalists just as easily as in the case of the field being: purchased, and opened by Government. What, then, should hinder the landowners of Waitoa in taking the bull by the horns and each ono of them pro claiming his land a goldfield ? The terms they may with all fairness ask from the miners who will prospect and flock to them are far better than those which Mr J. B. Smith has obtained from the capitalist. The miner's permit to which we have re ferred, winch no working miner would ob ject to for the privilege, and which would of course be paid in advance by all pro spectors, and by others joining them when the claims are taken up, would give the proprietor £16 an acre at onpe, or £2 per acre more than Mr Smith has obtained for his freehold, and a far lower rent than that wo have suggested would give the owner a large annual income as royalty while the claims were working."

A GOLD FIND AT HAMILTON

Hamilton, this day. A MAN named Hynes, a resident of Hamil ton, who lias been working in the main drain has jusb panned off some stuff from near the residence of Mr Northcroft, which contained some few specks of gold. Several experts state that the gravel is of the same description as that at Waitoa.

VOLUNTEER INTELLIGENCE.

The "A" Battery of Artillery mustered in full force last night at the Drill-shed for their monthly inspection, under the command of Major Payne and Captain Geddes. Lieu, tenant Ansell took command of pany, and put them through the exercises of position and gun drill, this being the last portion of his examination for his new rank. Major Payne and Captain George, of the "0" Battery, were the Board of Ex aminers, and they declared Lieutenant Ansell to have acquitted himself very successfully, and to their satisfaction. At the conclusion of the parade, headed by the Artillery Band, the Company marched down Queen-street as far at Fort-street, where an adjournment took place, at the invitation of Lieutenant Ansell, to tho Im perial Hotel, where a smoke concert was held in honour of his promotion. Tho healths of the recently appointed off.cers were drunk and songs contributed by mem bers of the Company, a pleasant evening being spent.

The Navals are summoned to parade this evening and to practise some movements, for thesham tight. These will probably embrace guard mounting, outpost duties, picqvtet, and also the manner of advancing in the enemy's country by feeling the way with advance guards, &c. Every man should be present, so as to obtain or to im part instruction, and thus continue the con fidence that the members of this corps or division have in one another, i.e., the men in the officers and the officers in their men.

City Guards.

By an advertisement which appears in another column it will be seen that members of the Guards who have not done class firing are warned to be at the Range to morrow (Saturday), at 1.30 p.m.

POLICE COURT—THIS DAY.

(Before H. C. Baddeley, Esq., R.M.) Drunk and Disorderly.—Francis Small was ordered 21 days' imprisonment for thia offence.

Failing to SurroßT. —Hugh Carr wa3 charged with failing to support his illegi timate male child, an inmate of the Kohi marama Industrial School. —Sergeant Pratb stated that the child was committed to the School in August last, the mother then being destitute. The father had since been found, and was now in Court. The child had already cost the Depart ment £3, and he asked that an order should be made on the defendant for the' amount.—Some amusement was caused during the progress of this case by the talkative propensity of defendant.—The mother of the child, who was also in Court, wanted to have her say at the same time as her • husband, and had to be put out of Court forcibly. The defendant waa given a week in which to pay up the arrears, £3, and was ordered to pay 7s 6d per week towards the further support of his child. A Hard Case.—Susan Mattheson, who was before the Court a few days ago on a charge of having no lawful or visible meana of support and was released on the applica tion of Mrs Cowie, who took her into the Parnell Home along with the illegitimate child which had previously been in charge of the Charitable Aid Board, was again brought up. Detective Hushes deposed to the facts. He also stated that the prisoner went to the Parnell Home with Mrs Cowie, but left the institution yesterday, and was accordingly taken in charge by the police. His Worship said the defendant had re ceived an excellent chance to reform, and had proved very undeserving of the kind ness extended to her. —She would receive three months' imprisonment.. The Offensive Sign.—Frederick Wood ruffe again appeared to answer a charge of allowing an offensive sign to be placed over his premises in Queen-street. — William Anderson deposed to having examined the defendant's verandah. There were two screens, one in front of the other, both being contrary to the by-law.—Fined Is and costs. Valueless Cheque.—William Smith was charged with having obtained from Nathan Goldwater the value of £3 10s in goods and 10s in money by false pretence, viz., by a cheque drawn on the Bank of Aus tralia, purporting to have been signed by Mr Smith, who had no account in the .bank.—Sergeant Pratb applied for a remand till Wednesday, there being several other charges against the prisoner. Kemanded accordingly. Insulting Language-.—Margaret Lyons was charged with using insulting language tovvarcls Francis Berry. The summons nob having been served the hearing of the case was postponed. Drunkenness. —John Murphy, an old offender, was lined 20s and costs for thia

offence,

SERIOUS ACCIDENT AT MUDDY CREEK.

A most painful accident to a son of Mr William Bray,of Onehunga, occurred at the Bi" , Muddy Creek, Manukau Harbour, yesterday morning, at 9 o'clock. It appears that the young lad, Master Alfred Bray, 17 years of age, at the time of the accident) was carting firewood out of the bush by means of a cumbrous waggon or trolly drawn by one bullock. The unfortunate youth was riding on the bullock's back, and on approaching a steep incline was advised by his brother-in-law,Mr Duff Laing, to get otf and walk, but, boy like, persisted in remain ing where he wae. In descending the hill, the speed increasing, he suggested the advisability of taking Mr Laing's advice, and in attempting to jump from the bul lock's back the poor boy's foot caught in the shaft, causing him to fall, the waggon, upon which was two ton of wood, passing over him, the wheel crushing his arm up close to the shoulder into a complete pulp. Mr Laing's boat being convenient, the unfortunate young fellow was im mediately conveyed to Onehunga, delay being shortened by being towed up by the s.s. Gairloch. On arrival, Drs. Scotb and Erson were in attendance, and advised the boy's immediate removal to the Auck land Hospital. On arrival there it was found that amputation was necessary in order to save the boy's life. The House Surgeon and Dr. Scott performed the opera tion, taking the arm out by the socket ab the shoulder. Considering everything, the lad appears, as Mr W. Bray states this morning, to be getting on pretty well.

The members of the Ellerslie Football Club are requested to attend a meeting in the school-room on Monday evening nex^,

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

COMING EVENTS.

meetings, &c. To-night.

Epsom Hall—Committees of Mr S. S. Osborne, 7.30 Olympia Hall, Grey-street—Skating Rink, 7.30 to 10 Imperial Hotel—Amateur Athletic Club, 8 Tabernacle School-room—Entertainment, 7.30 Drill-shed-Auckland, Ponsonby, and Wait*. rnata Naval Artillery, 7.30.

Rota of Justices at Police Court.

October B—Messrs F. G. Clayton, and S. Y« Collins

Auction Sales Tomorrow.

D. P. Evans -Furniture, Water Colours, etc., U,

THE AUCKLAND EVENIJVG STAR, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, 1887.

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