PARLIAMENTARY GOSSIP.

(BY TELEGRAPH.— SPECIAL REPORTER.)

Wellington, this day. Private Members' Bills.

A LARGE amount of work has already been placed on the order paper of the House by private members. No fewer than thirty bills were given notice of yesterday, ot which the following arc of general interest: —Mr Macarthur, Bill to Amend Hospitals and Charitable Institutions Act, 1885; Mr Vincent Pyke,' Otago Central Kail way Extension and Construction Bill; Mr Secldon, Auctioneers Bill* Mr Ross, Otao-o Harbour Board Act, 1883, Amend ment Bill; Mr Ballance, Municipal Cor porations Act Amendment Bill; Major Steward, Education Reserve Settlement Bill, and a Bill to Amend the Hospital and Charitable Institutions Act, 1885 ; Mr Seddon, Reduction of Duty on Gold Bill; Sir .G. Grey, Bill to Regulate Ad mission to "Persons to Practise in Courts of Law, Bill to Provide for the Limitation of Votes at any Election ot. MembersbftheHouseofliepresentaftves.Bul to Authorise the Utilisation and Acquisition of Lands for Subdivision for Purposes of Set tlements, and Bill to Define Hour? of Labour within the Colony of New Zealand ; Mr Seddon, Hawkers and Pedlars Bill; Mr Marchant, Bills to Legalise the Firing of Field Bush, and to amend the Animals" Pro tection Act, 1880 ; Mr Samuel, Bill to Amend the Divorce and Matrimonial Causes Act, 1867; Mr Taipua, Bill to Repeal Native Land Administration Act. Many of these bills have already been before the House.

An Improper Order,

Mr Moss gave notice yesterday of his intention to move for a cjpy of an order notice warning railway employe's not to submit grievances to members ot Parliament. Mr Moss has seen a copy of the order, and when it is laid on the table of the House he intends to follow the question up by moving that it is improper to interfere with the privileges of a constituent by representinghis grievances to the member for his district, simply because he happens to bo in the Go vernment service.

A Ministerial Pooh Bah,

The three local newspapers agree that SirF. Whitakerand the Hon. Mr Stevens greatly strengthen the Government, but the "Post" is of opinion that Major Atkin son is a very "Pooh Bah " in the multitude of his offices. It, however, approves of the Mines Department being once more united with the Lands.

Railway Petitions

Mr Wilson is to move that a Committee be appointed, with power to call for persons and papers, to consider and report upon any petitions relating to the railway system, euch Committee to consist of Hon. Mitchel son, Messrs Anderson, Izard, Jones, Mo- Arthur, Mills, W. P. Reeves, Hon. E. Richardson, Mr Withy, and the mover.

Education Expenditure

Mr Wilson is to move that a Committee be appointed with power to call for persons and papers to inquire (1) if the present large expenditure on education can bo reduced without unduly impairing the ofiiciency of the present system or closing tho country schools, (2) in what direction (if any) reduc tion should take place,and (3) generally into the working of the system. The Committee to report thereon within a month, and to consist of the Hon. G. Fisher, Messrs Allen, Beetham, .Longhrcy, J. H. Mackenzie, Ormond, Barron, Walker, Dr. Fitchett and the mover.

Tho Credit of the Colony.

The credit of the colony is at tho lowest possible ebb, as may be gathered from the fact that to secure the payment; of half a million of money due in London in Novem ber next, tho late Government had to pay twenty-one thousand pounds interest and commission.

Meeting of Protectionists.

Some twenty protectionists held an in formal meeting yesterday, but disbanded without coming to any resolution. It was decided to closely watch the development of events, and take action when the Financial Statement was brought down.

Pukekohe Borough.

Mr Hamlin gave notice yesterday of his intention to introduce the Pukekohe Borough Bill.

Auckland Custom-Housc.

The Minister of Public Works informs Mr Thompson that the late Government, not having taken action re proceeding with tho building of the Custom-House at Auckland, it is his intention to bring the matter under the notice of the Government at the first Cabinet meeting, with a view of getting the work put in hand.

Village Settlements

Amongst notices of motion given yester day are several by Messrs Hobbs and R. Thompson with reference to village settle ments north of Auckland. Mr Hobbs asks for all correspondence on the subject, while Mr Thompson seeks information respecting payments to John Lundon, and also pay ments on account of .survey work done on sections, and expenses in connection with the location of settlers.

Auckland Petitions.

Amongst petitions laid before the House were the following of Auckland interest:

—From M. Williams, having reference to his pension; Lieutenant - Colonel Thomas McDonnell, that petitioner may be placed on an equal footing with other re cipients of the New Zealand Cross ; John Caswell, for fuller compensation for injuries received in Asylum duty; James Gill, for a section of land at Pukekohe; unemployed of Christchurch and suburbs, relative to necessity for relief works ; Agnes ( Ireece, for rehearing of sub-division application re specting a piece of native land at Auck land.

Sessional Committee.

The, Committees, which it is proposed to set up to-day will contain the following Aucklanders : — Goldficlda Committee : Messrs Cadman, Fraser and Jackson. Reporting Debates Committee: Messrs Lawry, Moss.Peacock and Whyte. Notice has not yet been given of the Petitions, Waste Lands, and Native Affairs Com mittees.

Appearance of the House.

The House presented a bi-illiant appear ance at Tuesday evening's sitting. Major Atkinson and Mr Fisher sat in front Minis terial benches, and immediately behind them were Messrs Fulton and Pearson. Then came Messrs Mitch<ilson and Hislop, and at the rear of them Messrs G. F. Richardson and Fergus. On the opposite Bide to the Treasury benches sat Messrs Larnach and Ballance, while Sir J. Vogcl and Hon. E, Richardson lilled the places occupied by Major Atkinson and Mr Rolles ton in the late Parliament. Lady Vogel, Mrs Ballance, and Mrs Richardson had, of course, to be content with seats in the ordinary ladies' gallery in place of compart ments set apart for the convenience of Ministers' wives. I was glad to notice that Sir Julius Vbgel was able to stand on his feet, and with the aid of a couple of sticks to walk in and out of the Parliamentary Chambers.

A Shuffle of the Cartta.

It will be seen from my former report that there has been a shuffle of the cards ho far as the re-arrangement of the portfolios is concerned. The most noticeable altera tions are that Mr Hislop takes the Colonial Secretaryship, Mr Fergus relieving him of the Justice Department, while Mr Richard eon takes that of Mines and Immigration, ~in addition to the important portfolio of lands.

The Addresstn-Beply.

A lengthy debate on the Address-in-Re- is anticipated, and Mr Vincent Pykej has declared his intention of speaking fop '

two hours with the view of making clear the position he takes up at the present juncture. Mr Taylor, too, will speak his mind at some length.

Growing Strength of the Ministry.

It appears to be a growing feeling that Ministers should be given a fair chance of initiating and carrying out their policy of drastic retrenchment, and another member from West Coast, who was returned as a supporter of the Stout- Vogel party, yesterday assured me that if they evolved anything like a satisfactory Statement they might rely on his cordial sympathy and support.

A Defection

The only open defection from the Minis terial ranks is Mr Feldwick, who will not be content with any policy that has not protection as one of its leading point?].

Vogel's Popularity Waning.

That Vogel's popularity is on the wane i.« undoubted, and though he was returned with probably the strongest following in the House, indications are not wanting that if the Government remains on the Treasury benches for any time, several of his former friends will desert him.

Mltchelson's Popularity,

It is worthy of mention that the first two Ministers selected by Major Atkinson were Messrs Mitchelson and G. F. Richardson. Outside opinion thoroughly confirm? the Premier's judgment, these two appoint ments being exceedingly popular. Just before the House rose there was a slight breeze between Major Atkinson and Sir Julius Vogel, but it lasted sufficiently long to show that these two old campaigners are in capital fighting form. The ex-Treasurer tried to "draw" the Premier as to the nature of the Speech from the throne on the following day, but Major Atkinson de clined to satisfy his hon. friend's curiosity, at the same time assuring him that it was a nice little Speech.

Minister of Mines.

It will be gratifying to thoso who are anxious to see retrenchment effected to learn that the appointment to the Mines Department is only temporary, and that at the close of the session bhis portfolio, which has so frequently been referred to as un necessary, will be done nway with. Owing to the re-arrangement fchin department has been tacked on to Mr Richardson.

Minister of Ptbllc Worlia.

Should Mr Mitohekttn adhere to his in tention to give up the portfolio of Public Works when the sessitxn is over, Mr Fergus, who has been most persistent in his anxiety to obtain it will be chosen in his place. Otago will then Imts increased strength, and further advantages in the Cabinet.

Justice and Defence.

Owing to the appointment of Mr Hislop as Colonial Secretary it has been arranged that Mr Fergus shall take the Departments of Justice and Defence. Consideijiblo reductions are to be made in defence 'Expenditure, and, recog nising this fact, Tjlajor-General Whitmore has offered to relinquish his present appoint ment and perform, the duties of command ant of the forces without pay, at the same time returning to his old .«cat in the Legis lative Council. The proposal is now under consideration of thcOibinet, and it is likely that ifc will be accepted.

Poffiiuisitor-General

It was arranged yesterday that Major Atkinson, who is , administering the Customs and Marino Department, shouldalso be Post master-Genert'i. Mr Richardson lakes tho Immigration as well as Mines and Lands Department.

Only Temporary.

Ifc is understood that the present arrange ment of port-folios is only temporary, and that the Cabinet will bo remodelled during the recess.

Bible In Schools

At the Biblo in schools meoting Mr Pyke's resolution, which Mr Hall seconded, was as follows: — "That tho clauses in Mr Pyke's Public Schools' Bill of 1885 be incorporated with any bill having for its object the intro duction of Bible-reading in schools." The regulation was withdrawn at the request of several members who pro mised him support if he brought in a sepa rate measure for that object.

Municipal Legislation

Mr Goldio saw tho Mayor of Welling ton to-day relative to tho proposed meet ing of delegates from the Municipal Qouncils to watch legislation connected with boroughs. Tho Mayor promised his co-operation and put the Council rooms at Mr Goldie's disposal.

Iron Manufacture.

Mr Chalmers, of Auckland, who is here from Nelson, is urging on the Minister of Mines and members tl»n necessity of a bonus for the smelting of ores afc a given price. The reason, I believe, is that an English syndicate would embark on tho enterprise if a bonus were offered. Tho goldhelds members will probably hold a meeting on the same subject.

Kamo-Kawnliawft Hallway.

Mr Hobbs intends to introduce a bill to secure tho construction of a rail way from Karao to Kawakawa by a syndicate, in consideration of land grants. The distance is twonty-four miles. He proposes to secure ihe repeal of the Act, making the Pnhi Ptihi forest a reserve, and to have it set apart as an cudowmont to the syndicate. Tihe bush is a very valu able one. The bill will be on the same principle as Mr Pyike'e dealing with tho Otago central railway.

Auckland Members.

A number of Auckland members been laid up with an epidemic known here as dengue fever. They are now recovering from the complaint. It is the result of severe cold.

BIBLE i:«T SCHOOLS,

Important Meeting of the Party.

A meeting of members of both branches of the Legislature favourable to the reading of the Bible in the Schools was held this forenoon, and was attended by Messrs Tanner, ]Buxton, Joyce, Downie Stewart, Rhodes, Allen, Anderson, Cowan, Feldwic.k, Fish, Fulton, Hodgkinsoh, Lar nach, J. M. McKjenzie, Hall, Pyke, Ross, Stewart, Ward a fid Pratt, as representing the Lower Hou,se, and the Hons. Dr. Menzies (presiding) Barnicoat, Brett, Holmes, Bailliei and Reynolds repre senting the Legislative Council. The Chairman said that the meeting would be invitee/ to discuss the question dt novo either on past or on entirely new lines, as the meeting might decide. The Hon. Mr Holmes mored : " That this meeting is of opinion that legislative provision should be made whereby the Bible may be read daily in the public scjiools, and that a bill to effect this object ahould be introduced into the Houfje of Representatives." Mr Fish in, seconding said he thought it would be unwise to make Bible reading permissive; it should be compulHory. Mr Tanner and Major Steward preferred leaving the question to the people through the School Committees.

The resolution was carried unanimously. Last fjession's bill, introduced into the Council by Dr. Menzies, was then read and referred to a Committee consisting of Messrs Menziefi, Fulton, Holmes and Downie Stewart, to draw up a bill and submit it to a future meeting for discussion. Mr Pyke urged the claimsof fcheCatholica, and submitted m couple of resolutions show ing that the claims of the Catholics should be incorporated in the Bill, but he finally wit/hdrew them.

We believ;b that if every one would use American Co.'s Hop Bitters freely there would be much less sickness and mieery in the world, and people are fast finding this out, whole families keeping woll at a trifling cost by its ueej We advise all to try it. R««d.

VOLUNTEER NEWS.

GALA NIGHT AT THE CITY HALL,

PRESENTATION OF MR FIRTH'S

RIFLES

Last evening the City Hall was crowded, on the occasion of the presentation to the win ner? of the 15 Martini-Henri rifles givensom6 time ago by J. C. Firth, Esq., to the non commissioned officers and men belonging to the Auckland Volunteers. Long before the doors of the hall were opened, a large crowd was assembled on the pavement, waiting an opportunity to enter. Shortly before 8 o'clock the doors were opened, and in a short time nearly all the avail able seating accommodation was occupied. Inside, fcheWl presented a gay and ani mated appearance, the brilliant uniforms ot the officers and men blending well with the handsome dresses of the large number ot ladies present in the dress circle. A line piano was lent for the occasion by Mr Hoft mann, Mr Pooley and Major Pine actinias ciccotnnanisfcs during the evening. Lhe wings* of the stage had been taste fully decorated with stands ot arms and stars formed of sword-bayonets. _ The rear of the stage was one mass of bunting. The Mayor (Mr A. E. Devore) presided, the arrangements being under the care ot Major Pirie. Mr J. C. Firth upon arriving was received with applause, the military men all standing until he took hia seat. On the platform were Col. Lyon, Capt.- Comdt. Leßoy, Lieut.-Cols. Uignan and Mahon, Majors Isaacs, Anderson, Payne, Pirie, Capts. Wbite,George, Geddes,»Sowell, Lieuts. Elmes, Parker, Moore, Silvio, Leahy, Drs. Dawson, Moore, Erson, and McMullen. Amongst the civilians present on the plat form were the Mayoress, Mrs Pirie, Miss Hooper, the Sheriff (Mr Baddeley), Mr Graves Aickin, and Mr Seering Mat thews. The Garrison Band under Bandmaster Morris was in attendance, nnd opened the proceedings by playing " Three Cheers for the Red, White, and Bine." Mr Devore said that the main purpose of their gathering was to witness the presen tation by Mr Fifth to the Volunteers. The idea was a new one, for hitherto the citizens had not usually attended at the*e presentations. He hoped that other wealthy citizens would follow the good example set by Mr Firth. (Applause.) He had, with his strong, practical common sense, provided twenty oi their best shots with the best weapons which could be ob tained. (Applause.) So long as it was necessary to train young men to arms, just so long was it necessary to see that they were provided with the beßt arms obtainable. He was glad that the presen tation was a public one, and he was also glad to eeo so many ladies present. Hβ would not detain them longer, but call up on Mr Firth to address them.

Mr Firth was received with applause. Hβ expressed pleasure afe tho large gathering present. He said that the honour belonged to New Zealand of having revived the Volunteer movement in tho .British dominions. After 1816, when'the Battle of Waterloo was won, the Volunteer movement languished. When the lesson Uught by tho Crimean War was understood, the Volun teer movement revived, and to Auck land belonged that honour, and tho credit was due to Dr. Campbell, tho then Superintendent, who sent Homo for arms for tho torco—the force which must ever oxist in free countries if they intended to remain free. One could not behold such an assemblage of young men, and prey beards also who were still prepared to draw their swords in the defence of their country, withonthaving memories of the past revived. It showed to him that the Volun teer movement was not dead ; that it still lived with all its original vigour. Happily in this country they no longer had internal wars, for tho native race were now permanently at peace with their white brethren. It might bo asked where was the use, under such cir cumstances, of keeping armed Volunteers ? But when they looked at the condition of Europe at the present time—when they saw Germany, Austria and Italy ranged on one side, and France and Russia standing on guard on tho othor, they could not doubt but that the position was one of extreme tension, an'l that a small accident might let loose all tho sad dogs of Mar. Tl.ey should consider carefully the presont state of Europe before they threw away their arms. They should also re member that a time might come when they must take them up again to defend their homos and those they loved. They should always remember that if they would be ready for war they must prepare for it in times of peace. He congratulated them and the various Governments of the Australasian colonies that they were now to a certain extent in a state of defence, so that if any country chose to attack an Aus tralian colony they would find more than one bulldog ready to show teeth, and also to do more. (Applause.) The expendi ture for this object had been criticised as extravagant, but he considered that it was no such thing. (Applause.) In fact, he thought it somewhat niggardly. In case of war, England would doubtless send a few ships to defend the colonies, but it would be foolish to depend alone on those. Batteries were a necessity, and torpedoes would, he thought, be still better ; but he considered that the final and most success ful defence of all would bean armed people. Therefore, young men should be trained to arms. Besides the millions of men now under arms in Europe, he regretted to see also that great powers such as Russia were dis posed to show a spirit of lawlessness. He still more regretted that France had been drawn from her ancient chivalry to league with Russia in her lawless aspirations. Treaties nowadays were of no avail. Honour seemed dead amongst the nations, and treaties were made but to be broken with impunity. (Applause.) Last of all, what was the spectacle which was even now being enacted under their own eyes? Germany, one of the greatest Euro pean powers, one of the most powerful of; the armed nations of the earth (a voice: " Question "), eenfc an armed force to threaten to make war upon a defence less people in the Pacific Ocean. He referred to what was afc present taking place in Samoa — Germany dethrones a King, and then practically annexes his country. He felt sad when he thought that a great nation like Germany—a nation in which their own Teutonic blood was so much commingled—should take part in such an affair as that which had just been happening under their own eyes. Owing to the supinenees or carelessness of the United Kingdom, groups of islands in the Pacific Ocean had been permitted to pass into the hands of France and Germany. What he eaH was thatthey didnotconsent to the annexation of these islands by any foreign nation. It was true that they in the colonies were but a few—about four millions—but the time was coming , when they would be able to say, " This is our motto : Australia for the Australasians." (Applause.) What he had to say to them was—trust in your selves, and remeirhber that your fate is practically iv your own hands, and that if a free people forgets its rights and permits any nation to subject ifc, then its fate is of its own making. Even if their first and second lines of de fence were taken by an enemy, it would be impossible for any nation to hold any country where the people were armod and trained to use their arms. Another disturbing element apparent was that, during the last forty years—no matter what Government was in power in Great Britain, whether it was Whig or Tory—there had been a woeful decadence in '

that English feeling which had made a man, if an Englishman, feel pvoud of the coun try which gave him birth. In these young colonies they prided themselves upon being the English of the Enghsn. But ib seemed to him as if the spirit ot the English people was in its decadence. (A voice: "No !") Whether this was the re sult of the hurry to make money in manu factories, or the result of luxury, he knew nob, bub he did know thab such a state of things had brought that grand Roman Empire down bo the dust, and he some times wondered whether history was pre paring to repeat itself ; and ho felt that in these colonies they would be making a great mistake if they failed to protect them selves, and some day they might find ib out when it was too late to retrieve their past. England was sometimes reproached for her large national debt, but he considered that if ever a debt was honourable, that was, for it principally accumulated in subsidising the nations of Europe and breaking the power of Napoleon, with tho result thab peace was restored to Europe. Bub now all was changed, for Britain believed in diplomacy, and sometimes she treated her own children worse than foreigners. In the colony their own duty was to protect themselves, and to do that they must be prepared bo defend it against ail comers. Aβ the Mayor had said, it depended greatly upon the ladies whether or not tho Volun teer movement progressed. Gentlemen who could afford to do so had also been backward in assisting tho move ment. Even if they could nob fight them selves, they might assist in oblier ways. The women could assist by saying to any young man who came after their hand (laughter), "It is your duty, young man, not only to make me comfortable, bub also bo make me safe. (Laughter and a voice, "Good on you, old man.") And the way to do that is to take up arms as a Volunteer, and don't you come to ask my hand until you have proved yourself to be a deadshob." (Great laughter and cheers.) That was a right that belonged to every married or Hing-le woman, the right to assist the Volunteers. He concluded by thanking them for the patient heaving they had given him, and reiterated his warning that every young man should be trained to use arms, and concluded by saying that their duty was to defend the country that they lived in and loved against all comers, and they could only do thab if they had Arms in their hands, and knew how to use them. (Loud applause.) Mr Knox then sang " Ye Gallants of Eng land," and was recalled to bow his acknow ledgments. Major Pirie then called forth the winners of the rifles. Their names were as follows : — Auckland Naval Artillery, Bugler Emillo Le Griffin ; Ponsonby Navnls, first class Petty Officer Arthur Graham; Onehunga, first-class .'P.O. John Nelson; YVaitemata, first class P.O. Georgo Martin ; A Battery Artillery, Gunner Alfred Payne ; 0 Battery Artillory, Gunner Ernest Clifton Beale; Auckland Engineers, Sapper Daniel Allen ; Victoria Ritics, Sergt. Theo. Fairs; City Guards, Col.-Sergt. William Stirling; Hobson Rifles, Vol. William Quinlan; Queen* Own, Vol. F. J. Kelly ; Newton Rifles, Vol. Joseph Mutt; Onehunga Rifles, Vol. Patrick McCarthy ; Gordon Rifles, Vol. Stephen Taylor. Rifle presented to officer Lieutonant W. Moore.

Each of the winners received an ovation &« ho mounted tho platform. Mr Firth then presented tho rifles to each man, mak ing a fow appropriate remarks to every recipient. The band then played " Sco tho Conquer ing Hero Comes." Colonel Lyon next addressed the assem blage. He proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Firth, and al?o to Mr Abbott for having granted tho freo use of tho City Hall. He referred to the fact that in 1862 Mr Firth had himself served in the ranks of the Auckland Volunteers. Unfortun ately, he had been compelled to with draw from the corps in order to attend to the call of his business! They all knew that a short time ago a fierce war was raging in Auckland—a newspaper war—in which it was attempted to take away their Rillc Range. (Laughter, and a voice: "Mother Aldis.") The enemy nearly gained the victory, and, in fact, he received notification from Wellington to look out for another range. The enemy, by the way, lived at the other side of the mountain, so ho lirst thought it advis able to interview Mr Firth, who was the nearest resident to the range. He admitted that it was somowhat of a nuisance in a morning when ho wanted to sleep, but he would rather not do anything , to wards moving the liitle Range. Now, thanks to Mr Firth, the range was safe. (Applause.) He considered that the Firth family had been most unselfish in this matter. (Applause.) Colonel Lyon then asked tho audience to rise and give three cheers for Mr Firth, one for Mrs Firth, and one for the Misses Firth. These wero promptly given by those present. The band played " For He's a Jolly Good Fellow," after which three cheers wore given to Colonel Lyon on the call of Captain Hulse.

Colonel Lyon then presented Staff-Ser geanfc Soall, of the City Guards, with the New Zealand long-service medal. He said that Mr Soall had been in the service since 1862. Mrs Devore pinned the medal on Staff-Sergeant Soall's breast amidst great applause, the band playing " Should Auld Acquaintance be Forgot ?" Mr Horace Dean next sang "I'm a Soldier," and in response to an encore, " All that Glitters is Not Gold." His Wor ship the Mayor also presented Gunner Webster, " A " Battery Artillery, with the Battery Champion Belt,which he had won that morning. As Webster was absent on duty, Captain Geddes took charge of the belt.

Mr Firth then presented Sergeant Hodg kinson with the " 0 " Battery New Zea land Artillery's? Challenge Cup. This was followed by the presentation of the Gordon Rifles Silver Cup to Lieutenant Fairs, by the Mayor, at the request of Cap tain White. A vote of thanks was then ac corded the Mayor on the motion of Captain - Commandant Leßoy, seconded by Lieu tenant-Colonel Dignan. Colonel Lyon called for tln-ee cheers for the Mayor, and one for his wife, which were promptly givon, the band again playing "For He's a Jolly Good Fellow. Mr Devore briefly returned thanks, and the National Anthem ter minated one of the most brilliant pageants connected with the Auckland Volun teers.

City Guards

It willbe seen by advertisement in another column that members of the above Company arc warned to attend at the Drill-shed on Saturday next, at 3 p.m., for judging dis tance parade. As every member must attend this parade so as to earn capitation, there should be a good muster.

No. 2 Battalion

The various companies comprising this battalion are to muster at the Drill-shed on Saturday next at 3 p.m.

Remember This.

If you aro sick Hop Bitters will surely aid Nature in making you well when all else fails. If you are costive or dyspeptic, or are suffer ing from any other of the numerous diseases of the stomach or bowola, it is your own fault if you remain ill, for Hop Bitters is a sovereign remedy in all such complaints.

If you aro nervous use Hop Bitters. If you have rough, pimply, or sallow skin, bad breath, pains and aches, and l'oel miserable generally. Hop Bitters will give you fair skin, rioh blood, and sweotost breath and health. That poor, bedridden, invalid, wife, sister, mother, or daughter can be made the picture of health, by American Co.'3 Hop Bitters, cost ing but a trifle. Will you let them suitor ? In short, they euro all diseases of the stomach, bowels, blood, liver, nerves, kidneys, Bright 3 disease. £500 will be paid for a caso they will not cure or help. Druggists and chemists keep it.

NEW ZEALAND RADICAL REFORM LEAGUE.

A MEETIKG of the Emergency Committee of the above Society took place in the Excel sior Hall on Tuesday evening. There was a full muster of members, and Mr Green wood was called to the chair.

The principal business was to re-consider the rules of the Association, which had been referred to the Committee for revision. The only alteration thought necessary was one to postpone the election of any pro posed member—if not unanimously ap proved of—till the next meeting, the object being to protect the Society from being suddenly packed for party purposes. In Mr Farnall's absence, a preliminary dis cussion took place upon his notice of motion re defects in the Representation Act. Much difference of opinion was ex pressed concerning the desirability of de priving electors of tho right to combine and make a personal canvass to secure the return of any particular candidate ; but all were unanimous in denouncing the present system of taking a show of hands at the nomination as a gross infringement of the principle of the ballot. On the motion of Mr Duffus, seconded by Mr Jcune, the following resolution was unanimously adopted :- - " That we earnestly request Sir George Grey, Mr Mitchelson, Mr Goldie, and Mr Withy to take such steps as they may deem best to get the currency question promptly and thoroughly investigated." The Secretary promised to send the above to the gentlemen named, and to forward to tho new Cabinet the similar resolution which wag lately Kent by the League to their pre decessors.

It was decided to postpone the next meet ing of the Society till the 7th of November, in consequence of theexpectedadjournment of Parliament.

CORRESPONDENCE.

The Case of Mary O'Connor.

(To the Editor.)

Sir,—Yesterday, at the Police Court, th© poor girl Mary O'Connor stood indicted fo r the manslaughter of her infant child, and I shall never forget her hopeless look. I felt quite overcome by the unfortunate position in which this poor creature was placed, and her pitiful crying and sobs were enough to move the most hardened heart to sorrow. I thought it bad enough for the unfortunate Ctrl to undergo the oi deal of a trial without being obliged to stand before a lot of lazy, unwashed hoodlums, who have no business whatever in court but vulgar curiosity. I hope if it is possible at all when this unfortunate one s> case conies before the Court again,that His Worship \vill order that the Court be cleared.—Yours etc., Cuakity.

Mistaken Identity.

(To the Editor.)

Sir,—l see by your issue of Monday last that Mr Charles Williamson has a griev ance, namely, that there are several other people about the city and environs bearing the same cognomen as himself, one of whom is impecunious, and another a very thirsty soul. A short time ago the writer found himself in almost a parallel position with your seemingly thin skinned correspondent, but not being of a particularly sensitive temperament, preserved golden silence in the matter. There is an individual about who has got a name, or an alias, co near mine that, some of the pi'oss reporters don't take the trouble to know the difference. This misanthrope has an unfortunate penchant for annexing silver watches, gold alberts, tweed pantaloons, half-worn boots, and divers articles of bodily wear and per sonal adornment, as a result of which he was some months ago sent to gaol for petty larceny. The next evening your worthy journal, the STAR, contained an unqualified scintillation to the effect that I had gone to Mount Eden to spend my Christmas holi days. The sequel to the above was : New Year's Day coming shortly after, my better half boing on the occasion in the Domain, attending some of the Sunday-school fetes, the wife of a very re spected citizen, who is still a gum merchant in our city, seeing her trundling some little lumps of mortality about in a perambula tor, did, in all sober seriousness, and no doubt out of the fulness of her heart, con dole with her on the misfortune of having her old man sent to durance vile, more especially at that busy and festive season of. tho year. My earthly helpmate ex plained that there must be some mistake, as her worse half fortunately wasn't in the jug, although, for the day only, he had perhaps gone to a place equally bad, as he had left home that morning with the inten tion of going to Ellerslie Racecourse (that place where so much vice, iniquity, and gambling speculation is carried on) for the purpose of witnessing the Great Northern Derby. From the foregoing experience I think it is pretty clear that there is no use taking umbrage at a man's name, even if he bears the same one, letter for letter,with yourself, and hasn't got the common decency to honour it by abstaining from habits, actions, and propensities that are dishonourable.—l am, etc., Abthur Tir.i.v. 64, Queen-street. October 12th, 1887.

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18. 188*.

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TMFORTANT NOTICE TO SHIP JL OWNERS. ETC. In retiring from the Ship Chandlery business, I beg to tender my sincere thanlcp to my many friends for their generous support during the last fourteen years, and will consider it a per sonal favour if my late patrons will kindly transfer their patronage to my successors in the business, Messrs Ross and Co.. whom I can confidently recommend. D. H. McKENZIB. Auckland, September 23,1887. "ITTITH reference to the above announce- V V ment, we have much pleasure in inti mating to the friends of the late firm, and the public generally, that we will carry on tho business of Ship Chandlers, Sail Makers, etc., in our temporary premises at No. 17, Lower Queen-street, and hope by strict, attention to business, combined with moderate charges, to merit a continuance of the patronage of tho lato flrm. ROSS & CO. THE SAIL LOFT will be under tho management of Mr Charles Reynolds, who had charge of this branch of Captain McKenzie's business for tho last fourteen years. The services of M>. vv. A, Harvey, for many years head, storeman for Messrs J. and D Oxloy and Captain D. H. MoKenzio. have been retained for the now iimt. Goods will arrive by next steamer from Sydney, and by direct steamers from Home. ROSS & CO. (Successors to Captain D. H. McKonzie), SHIP CHANDLERS, SAILMAKERS, Etc. Temporary Premises: NO. 17, LOWKB QUEKN-STKEKT, AUCKLAND Opening day, Monday, September 26. HE DEPRESSION AND HOW TO AMEND IT. By economy and purchasing cheap for Cash from T. W. DOONIN, Grocer, Importer, and Produce Merchant, Hobson-street. New and first-class Goods for less money than many pay for worthless articles. The following will give some idea of prices : -Really good Family Tea la 4d lb; box, 111b nett, for 13s 6d: first-class Tea, Is lOcl lb, worth 2s 10d lb ; good Sperm Candles, 4id lb, 81b forßid; box, 251b, 8s 6d; new Oatmoal, bag, 25ib, for 2s 7d; Whito Crystal Sugar, bag, 401b, for 9s 6d. Flour, Fruits, and other Goods at equally low prices for Cash. N.B.—Established 1857. Remember the Address: T. W. DOONIN'S, HOBSON-STREET.



Architects. P. HERAPATH, F.R.1.8.A.] [S»M. HKRAPATH PHERAPATH and SON, • ARCHITECTS, Colonial Bank Buildings. t^iTw - _on> b a rTt'l c y~ ARCHITECT. ETICHBURY'S BUILDINGS, QUEEN-STREET. DWAKD~MAHONEY AND SON, AECHITE T3. QPEEX-STREET. AUCKLAND. WH. SKINNER AND SON, a Builders, Carpenters, and Joiners, Vulcan Lane. Allßranches of the Building Trade executed by Experienced Workmen. Shop Fronts. Oftico Fittinus, &c. r. "p. p7 "Si. b"u kr o ws, AKUHITECT AND BUILJJINQ SURVEYOR. 317, VICTOKIA AItOADK. 'wrTLlTkn c Rii Fn~g to n, M. Inst. C.E., M. Inst. M.E., CONSULTING EN 0 INKER, AUCKLAND. JEdncatfonal. I EDUCATIONAL. — The Rev. Richard !j Cofttes, R.A., Head Master of the Nowton East School, is prepared to receive Gentlemen's Sons as Boarders at. his residence, "The Nook," Upper Symonda-streef, Auckland. Pupils of the Auckland College and Grammar School, whoBC parents are resident in tho country, will 6,id the above a comfortable home. The house is large, and is moat conveniently situated in one of tho healthiest parts of Auckland. Ad vertiser hris had several years' experience in tho teaching and management of boye, both in England and in the colony. Terms moderate. M" R F. l>. "WOO DHA M, Tkacher of the PIANOFORTE AND HARMONIUM. Address: Caroof Mv A. Eady, Auckland M usic Warehouse, Queen-street. MR G. "O~ _ S WA L D Gives Lessons in Elocution. 12 to 2, at Mears'a. Entcrtuiurneuta (,'iven and attimded. Terms in nd vunce. Addresa--Champlaloup and Cooper, Quecn stroet. I H OICTURE-FRAME JMANUFAC- M . X TORY AND MUSICAL INSTUU -7, 2 MENT WAREHOUSE, _r 88. Victoria-street, Auckland. feO O«« T. E. CARTER, f≤ £ TEACHER Of MUSIO, kS VIOLIN, "o PIANO, CORNET, GUITAR. &c, &C. *3 >—i _____ Musical instruments Tuned and p Ilepaired. ECusiucss Notices. c X k v an v i N GsT \Y. FMILLIFr-S ft SON IiAVK HliCttlV-tU. it-v l-AltC AUHIV_U-S CONTAIWINO 55,000 HULLS 08 , -l-AfUJI-HANCJIWOg, cotmuiTittti'Oir WbW f.AViKKNb 4forinnw»r»» ijiuiox, *ioc_ua W_,u a na HJI/VU I'll , Ut, UKSIOJXS. • AKU .Mhni Vfl_un h vj_it OFVEMLU IN 916 --FAUt-AGI-b -916 SC X 1 M S A N D )i v o tt 1 A N S rj.Aiti. ANjiSTllCll'i , uI.aSS, vvliiißi W, Jf H I L L< f f he & S<J^i lift AND $?. OuiKil" hllißicr. J Tub CORN BROOM CO. EXMOUTH STREET. Fγ I) WIN .1 O W "13 "S J Jatp Mi. nr.rt A. Joiiest. |Tio«pi'nr iipnt'eoa «'Otupiii'ief'JfefrMe A..<mUn.-l ?!/,. AOcnlloH hff'l'nenlc "Iro Office. AflverUijniu-O) A^'" l ' l "'At.Vl<.i.»«li i-VEKINO «TAR l'o*t umr.ii .-i(iviii)<« h«">- Moimv Uitier Office. TolegraDh Statioti liuaeau. STir.f.'S Milk Htoi.il, Milk Bread!, • eweet aoa cutriuu-e. aod Farm House Homo-mado Bread. Milk Sconoa and Cakes delivoreddaily.and can be had atthe Burlington Victoria Aicade, and at BCdflii 'J'ori'aoe; lieuuliji KuUfci y. Ucly'e I'arm, Mount ttdun. ACENIS VVAN'iUD. i> IUHM O"N D b"6 USE I-jNSONIiV KOA.D. W. CO(-'Ti k a Kf, Sb,vr K/ViVlttV MU ICUItR. J. BCTCII»'H.| [■>• GROOM. T O (; A I. /NO 0 « T X if. Everyone int«rnnt_d m tt>e prosperity ot Auckland should uurclnase OCAI.I.Y MADE SHIRTS -ND UNDER. CLOTHING. And not imported goods. Sen thai your draper supplies you with tDe htist articles, which ate niado by THE SHIKT AND UNDEKCLOTHING MANUITACTUKINC l-U, GRBATJ«)RTH ROAD SUPERPHOSPHATES.— Freezing Co.'s. k5 £8 aud £S of all merchant-. - ' O THE ELECTORS OF AUCKLAND. -The topic of the past few weeks has been tho Elections; the topic of to-dayis where to get the Cheapest Drapery and Clothing. Why, at C. Hopkins's London House, corner ot Victoria t,nd Nelson streets. Beige Dress Mate rials, light and dark grey, 4s lid for 12yds r Satins, In all colours, Is, Is 3d. Is 6d (worth double); Muslin Curtains. 3yds long, 2s lid poi pair; Lace do., Is lid per pair: Matting, lfyds wide, IOJd (slightlydamaged); Youths Black Worsted Sac Coat and Vest 7s 6d: Ladies Linen Collars, in white and coloured. Is fyl idoz.; gooij value in Homespuns mgrey, osott for 12yds. "one shilling PACKET of SALSALINE will preserve TWENTY SHILLINGS' worth of food. To be obtained of all Chemists and Grocers, in Is and 2s packets. "J, _■ HkBBK SB [B BBd Hiß 69 jrn Si SxS ok_ r. o. b. 284] [htgh-stkeet 6. cpstoms-st. vr. a rth v r ]\/r a3 y» MANUFACTURERS' AGENT AND WHOLESALE GLASS MERCHANT. ORDERS INDENTED. GOODS IMPORTED DIRECT, QUALITY GUARANTEED. Window Glaas Plate Glass Wire Nails Portland Cement Chinaware Havanna Cigars, etc. FOR SALE, 1,000 CASES WINDOW ULASS (assorted si».



1 -ftX sums, u?2 io^'^SSß ; *•-»i≤;^! . ft ™«( swaiS'' , "''^! *"—■-V—•'* ■■ - - QUEE^LAJIDIiQRiI^:| DISCOUNT ff Parbk-street (off Qucenii,' ■ : ft AUCKLAND. ' I Head Office :Bribbase. \- Agencies: Auckland, Sydney, and MtWB Money advanced , from £5 andnpmtJitH any amount required, to snitlho tora» II upon Personal, Freehold, leasehold, ttuß - Tangible may be arranged, either WceUyi tyatt!r,t__ Quarterly Instalments,' at lowest cnn_iti_j Advances made ot moral; also on all kinds of: Hereto including Bond-Wamntsfttc. Bills Discounted at enrnat rates, Intertiewß and commuij ication? win Iβ jj| strictly confidential. ' Office Hours: FroinlO tillßtM ARTHUR HO Hi] LAND AND MONETARY A6EST, I . 24, SHORTUND-STnEBT (Three Doors past Stae OScd > lam prepared to value land in iackldi the country to? intending porcliaeisjtia reasonable terms. All land sold bynuktAßß land I charge 2£ per cent commission, H I am prepared to i ne^tiate;M|Jrtg||Mi.ai| '' " ?■ :; to £16,000. • i:;:; i ;, :! i:i: ' tjj Advances made on Colonial 'jiad EfigMlH Polioieß. X Having Aganta in all parts England, I can make Advance! p 1 Wills in sums from £80 to ~: rriHß INDUSTIU&L ANDPROviij 1 PKRMANfiNTaaiLDINRLAHfI IN VESTMENT SOCIETY OF ACCKML DEPOSITS. The above Society is ppentorMwjWi Amount on Deposit. joancroFl| .:, . ;.' ;■:■ '- >■■'&* "~.« ■ - Managa. TVTE W ZEAMND IOETGAGE, M lS AND DISCOUNT BANE,,,. i - High-street a _, FIRST AND-SECOND MOETGAGS ANY-AYAISIsEOURm , , Bills Discountea^nn®tEat» This Bank wmrec^eDeEO^lt ing rates of interest:- 8 pcjr cent. 12mont!i8 •• , M ,-,-."'-nna'iff& ~.,/ ■•: :" apercrat 3months •;_ _•■ ~A'o»rrAGE M^ , illllli —*"'" "' "7 ,• • TotnlW^ Rcpaymepts pecW#- repar ß ™' extending over ; —^r" 4 years.. •; g lo o I*l, 5 years... =•..;.- _,g..j. 1»» ■ 6yearns •• g T n- « 7 years., --; .'%i-l. ' f : 8 years.. •• X rjj»il> Society, v;. L oniTES^TREB 1 4 Corner of^Ut*' ,, - 0 tf^-t LANE. 15S= :: li{ f|l 3 years.- ;• OU| a^ 4 yean .. •: oJ I 1 6 years .. "0 75 ■'■Ist>'