a graceful, and we f^ jr tlncere and cordial welcome .core,*" 7 Allies upon resuming his rs^^^ ortbeb r fi i o£ &** j_'a citizen-one who ■ has matron of every movement tZni* 8 " 11 v .nf science and social W" . ti,Acause ol BWI,UW i»i^ ia bis honor has won the re- the community. At H° f i the history of the colony, one &** tmu tempted to grudge the >fiMr P s ™ s S> B fd otherwise be winning new fe?bisoki arena, and be em- abilities in the making of fa to ffadminist ei i n S fcbein ' / he T' insteadot au« sustained a Sid P ! f^ ifc dlered when Mr mWffihr of the Crown and Super- he filled so dis- Uf«S in the Government 0 t ijjrtishw a X ■ i loW ever, perhaps fc co!ony ; ««,«• to have earned the .V'rfTnpriß", acute and fear rtfOß* 0 " .°VJo terms in which the bar Hft __ Honor's past discharge jjsSitied jo fll , his honourable office | * tb %S words of. compliment. We f ere not» ere .y. w _i be endorsed by arc sure W ' ha d an opportunity A. ,v . ° <"«!• v -illies's thirteen years of highest Court of the land, **f fZ resnmptiom of duties after Sin his health will be <!f 3c satisfaction. ' t Wnco to a cablegram published ffi f IfSthatalon of Mr Trim <Xf teotber 8 Mary's Church, was one «*°Wa?fSeJDoncaster railway acci » ithe BCt pvervmuch gratified to learn that S not killed as the wording * Tn T- Lied us to fear. A cablegram son., to-day states SSI doing well, but it gives no «* i- .. in hisirnuries. Mr 1 nmnell and had, it is sup fe, ltoo"avLittofriendsinShef- ffitheacoident occurred. h, localstockmarket still continues firm, Sare plenty of buyers of alliusur * _S_severalties being concluded to- Anal Insurance at 17s 6cb South S iZf \„ 6d and. Union at 2os. The citations combine Cambrias 4s 6d. ffi 2Z3a.ons.2s6d, buyers 2s 5d ffflUce70 S; Bank.of iedahd, £15 b!f6d; buyers, ilo 10s; L%d Mercantile, 68s : sellers 6,s ; lid Gas Company,- sellers £11 6s ; S of new issue Auckland Gas Com- S sellers _5.155. e Greenwood Family's farewell concert o opera House to-night bids fair to be aametoasly attended. foe City Council invite tenders for lett and, draining lower Albert-street adcoScrete walling in College Hill Road. Raiders,to be sent in not later that the Btki-tZ' BeEer. Mr Wills, from Opotiki, will de fer aaevangelistic address at the Young Association Rooms this eveiv _»at 7.30. All are invited.

Tbefirefcday of the agricultural show at Siw(to-day), was devoted to the judging 'iikeepv Tlie weather is unsettled, and iaeiiapoor attendance. There are 234 550 sheep of which 131 EffiriaoiV-

Jtßevonport to-night, a concert is to feplace in the schoolroom of Holy Trinity [wlmaidof the Parsonage Incidental !pse3 Account. The price of admission jwy moderate, and there should be a |imembers of the Lower House are iif sworn in, in batches of three at a si and the next business will be the Iteraoi Speaker.

OUR GOLDFIELDS

THE WAITOA DISCOVERY

fIffILAND EXPERTS ON THE

FIELD.

topdent Between t_e Syndicate and Messrs Frasor and Sons.

iKI-KRArH,—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Te Aroiia, this day. MB, Smith returned from the South ffiMoaday last, and purposes leaving for l-boame with a parcel of the deposit to Obtested. Several Auckland gentle. Messrs J. A., Pond and E. 3 Whitakei, arrived this week, and have fa engaged in investigating the deposit. kilf Ayery _ud-owher in the district de wH-has the same or a very similar class Sdeposifc. Mr Smith reports that Govern- Wseenoireason for and have no inten f*a of interfering so long as the deposit i totked.and not,kept loclced up. 'aw is reason to believe that several i»« who believe that they have dis ced gold on their land are mistaking «Hkj and mica for the precious metal. A was reported to begetting several «a to the dish showed an expert some of teareaUysaved "washings," and the «goldprovedtobemica. '"» just heard that the tentative S e n come to-between the Christ ffifi iT y , and Wessrs Eraser and BISW- fco^ ecfc the Kokl saving S_i ß^haß - f allen.through, owing 2f W ™ to the matter of time Srfft. w" 1 been arr anged that the WJfla: plant wonkl be £6,000. Jbvltf Se . V £ n,tons of stuff were IB ST Fra6er and Sons for Mr ■KeKi ?' oss resulfc bein tf four *»fgold,worthfrom£3losto£4per i C n? pbeU Bros -' solicitors, of fe^vidnE n n f a w n -f clerable area of land m*l , f aitoa twns Mp. near Mr Victory rllt dha 7? been made wifch SinfeS' and 1 understand the parcel to the to Auckland for treatment.

immtf .> this day. l«*yS2f ße J though Hamilton ls t0 be laid oub J*"™ =otb.;? S P r °P e i'fcy. and that m P at, y ar e also to &°W Ji coy ?Cl !° n of the machinery. fe^Srt;^° reliableinf SS 1 afternoon afi £*' ?f de some ex Peri &4i*y acto results. ° f tl ' Cating

LATER.

C*!#Mii»?? Waifc °a to convey to %? c etc., ffi-" They wili visit y p ;jAito !l ., S P ont the last couple y pros P ecfc - vSJ? A, ? ha » Morrins-

BENCH AND BAR.

MR JUSTICE GILLIES RESUMES HIS

JUDICIAL FUNCTIONS,

GATHERING OF THE PROFESSION.

ADDRESS OF WELCOME.

JUDGE GILLIES'S REPLY.

The opening of the October Civil Sessions at tho Supreme Court this morning was signalised by the re-appearance of Mr Jus tice Gillies upon the Bench aftpr an absence of twelve months. It was pretty generally known beforehand that the members of the profession intended to improve the oppor tunity by presenting an address of welcome and congratulation to the Judge, and ac cordingly ;-• ' 1 0 o'clock this morning there was an in; -.-. ..anonly larjre muster of wigs and gowns within 'the "precincts of the Court. In fact, every available wig and gown must have been put into requisition, and a rather musty smell pervaded the Court in consequence. Tlie following legal gentlemen were present: Messrs E. Hesketh, J. M. Alexander, E. A. Mackechnie, Hudson Williamson (Crown Prosecutor), R. Laishley, LL.D., Tlieo. Cooper, A. E. Devore (Mayor of Auckland), T. Buddie, Hugh Campbell, W. Coleman, R. Browning, F. Earl, E. Mahony, W. Rigby. E. T. Dnfaur, E. W. Burton, A. Dewes, W.J. Napier, A. Brock, P. Baume, A. Buchanan, F. Tylden, J. A. Beale- White (Crown Prosecutor of Timaru), Bassett (Librarian), J. C. Blythe, C. Z. Clayton, W. Connell, C. W. Cave, S. Jack son, jun., C. E. Purchas, and T. Stcadman. As Mr Justice Gillies mounted the Bench the members of the profession rose to their feet, according to custom, and after His Mono;.' had taken his scat they remained standing while M. Edwin Hesketh, as senior member of the Bar, read the following ad dress :—

" May it please Your Honor,—Before en tering upon the ordinary business of the Court this morning I de.dre, on behalf of my learned brethren and myself, to say a few words in reference to Your Honor's re turn to the Bench. We are not unmindful of the reason which compelled You: lienor to retire from your important duties to seek for a measure of rest and repose, and I am sure that I am speaking the sentiments of all who hear me when I say that such enforced retirement from the Bench caused considerable regret amongst the members of the profession. Such an event not only called forth, the ordinary feelings and sym pathies of men for one whose health was threatened and in jeopardy, but it also brought to our minds the thought Of the great and serious loss which the colony would sustain if the Bench of the Supreme Court was deprived of Your Honor's know ledge and ability, and especially of that power and capacity for dealing with the mer cantile and commercial branches of the law. Happily, however, such thoughts have not been realised: On the contrary, we realise the fact that the season of danger has passed away, and it is gratifying to us that your Honor resumes your seat with health renewed and invigorated. It will be pleasing to your Honor to know that the important duties which belong to your high and honourable office have been dis charged during your absence with great efficiency, and that in administering the law there has been added a courtesy of manner and kindliness of heart which we think so becomes a judge. In conclusion, then, 1 would say to your Honor that we are here as representing the legal profession in the performance of a bounden duty to welcome your return to the Bench and to testify our appreciation of the judicial ability with which for nearly thirteen years Your Honor has presided over this Court."

His Honor replied:—Mr Hesketh and Gentlemen of the Legal Profession : —I very cordially thankyou for your kind and volun tary expressions of welcome to me on return ing to the exercise of my judicial duties. After nearly thirteen years' experience of each other I might have taken it for granted thab you would welcome me even without this expression of your feelings, but this address is nodoubt, undertho circumstances, none the less welcome. lam glad to think that tho proverbial stitch in time which saves nine has, in respect of jiy health, proved effectual, and that ib will probably extend the duration of those pleasanc re lations which have hitherto subsisted between us. lam <oxcoedingly gratified to find that during my absence the duties of my office have been so ably and satis factorily performed, for which I have to thank my learned brother, Mr Justico Ward. I trust that I may now be able in the future, as in the past, to do my duty of administering justice according to law without fear Or favour, affection or ill-will, and without regard to either applause or censure, so long as I have the conviction of doing what is right. Gentle men, I shall endeavour at all times to re ciprocate the courtesy and kindness which you have shown towards me, and I trust that you will continue to assist me, as you have done hitherto, in the endeavour to promote the rapid and efficient despatch of the apparently largely-increasing judicial business of this district, so that there may be no reason to complain of the law's delays. Gentlemen, I cordially thank you, and 1 am exceedingly pleased to see so large a num ber of the profession present. The ordinary business of the sessions was then proceeded with.

WAIKATO NOTES

FIRE AT NGARUAWAHIA.

A MAN SEVERELY BURNED.

(BY TELEGRAPH. —OWN' CORRESPONDENT.)

Hamilton, this day. Foe the two vacancies in the Hamilton Borough Council, Messrs R. F. Sandes and Isaac Coates have been spoken of.

A crickeb club has been formed ab Taupirb and Mr C. B. Cox has been elected cap tain. - ,

News has just been sent in that Captain Lindsay's house at Ngaruawahia has been destroyed by fire, and thab a man was severely burned in trying to put it out. At the monthly meeting of the Waikato District Hospital and Charitable Aid Board yesterday afternoon the Secretary was in structed to write to all contractors on the line asking them to contribute to the funds. Notices of motion were given "That the present Hospital site was in every way suited for the requirements of a District Hospital, and that the neces sary steps to complete the purchase be made." "That the Board respectfully urge upon the Government the necessity of Inserting in all railway contracts a clause compelling the contractor or contractors to providean accident fund as a means to secure greater safety for the workmen employed upon the works, and to provide means for paying hospital expenses in cases of acci dent while engaged on the works." Ab bhe usual monthly meeting of St. Peter's Church Society on Thursday even ing, Mr A. Swarbrick read a very interest paper on "Church Affairs."

At the monthly meeting of the Acclimati sation Society held on Tuesday last, it was stated that the Society had a credit balance of £130 16s sd. The Secretary stated that 10,000 brown trout ove, received from Otao-o had been successfully hatched in tho Domain fish pond 3, with a result cf aboub 8,500 heaithy fry. The question of dis tributing the fry was deferred till next mceti.no- 0 and it was decided to make enquiry'as to the cost of connecting the city main with the Society's present) wate Bupply.

OPENING OF PARLIAMENT.

TO-DAY'S BUSINESS.

(BY TELEGRAPH—SPECIAL REPORTER.)

Wellington, this day.

TnE tenth Parliament of New Zealand was opened by Commission at 2 o'clock this afternoon. The Commissioners were the Hon. Sir Wm. Fitzherbert (Speaker of the Legisla" tive Council), the Hon. P. A. Buckley (Colo" nial Secretary), 'the Hon. W. H. Reynolds, and Hon. G. M. Waterhouse. After the formal proceedings in the Legislative Coun" oil, when the Commissioners were notified that on Tuesday His Excellency the Governor would in person declare his reasons for calling Parliament together, the members of the House of Representatives returned to their chamber, and there, in accordance with the request of His Excellency, con veyed through the Royal Commissioners, proceeded to the election of the Speaker.

Tuesday, 2.30 p.m., has been appointed as tlie time for hearing the Governor's speech.

Tlio Speakership

Sir G. M. O'Korke will be nominated fo the Speaker's Chair by Mr Lance,seconded by Mr Pearson. There will be no opposition

Chairman of Committees.

Mr Seymour having refused nomination as Chairman of bhe Committee, Mr Hamlin will certainly be re-elected.

THE SAN FRANCISO MAILS.

The R.M.S. Alameda with English mnila, September 7th, k-ffc Han Frwirisoo for

Auckland on 3rd September, tima-tablo date. The R.M.S. Maraposa with tho colonial mails, dated 12th September, arrived at San Francisco from Auckland on Ist inst., one day earlier than time-table date.

SUPREME COURT.

This Bay.

Csvil Sittings.

(Before Mr Justice Gillies.)

The Chairman and Members of the Hoisson County Council v. John A. Munroe.— Claim for £165 15s l_d for rates due on property in the county.—Mr Theo. Cooper appeared for the plaintiffs,and Mr Dufaur for the defence. — Mr Coope r opened the case at some length to the Court. He contended that as the defendant was a resident without tho colony, action must be taken in his absence. He pointed out that tho two last amounts claimed for 1883-4 would come under the clauses of Section 31 of the Rating Act, 1882; but he contended that tho Act was not meant to protect absont land-holders and thus save them paying the rates due upon their property.— His Honor pointed out various clauses of the Statute of Limitations that was against the plaintiffs' action.—Mr Cooper, in reply, quoted the case of Maltply v. Murrells.— His Honor pointed out that the rate must be due before the demand could be made others in the Limitations Statue the same term was used " from the time the rate first became due."—Mr Cooper then asked when a rate was due.— His Honor explained that the moment a rate was struck it became due. He said that it was evident that the Statute of 1882 meant that they must not only take action within two years, but also receive judgment within that time.—Mr' Cooper said that was the literal meaning of tho Act, no doubt. The question was a very important one, affecting largely all the local bodies. The next point was whether, if proceedings were commenced within two years, judg ment might be obtained. — His Honor pointed out that the question was decided by Section 32$ •■ Mr Dufaur said that he held the rate to be due when it was struck,, and was payable after certain steps had been taken by the collector. He contended that the plaintiff were barred from taking proceedings for the first three years' rates under Sections 60 and 61 of the Rat ing Act of 1876. They were also barred from receiving rates for 1884 and '85 under Section 31 of the Act of 1882. It was now six years since the first rates had been struck. —His Honor asked if the plaintiffs had carried out the instructions under Section 40 of the Act of 1876 when strik ing the rate. —Mr Cooper said that the section had been duly complied with. That rate was payable in September, 1882. —His Honor said that the 1832 rate was decided under these circumstances.—Mr Cooper said that he could not advance that claim any further. With regard to the other claims, he might point out that they were since that" date.—His Honor said that section 31 precluded him from giving any judgment for rates.—Mr Cooper pointed out that the proceedings had been commenced within proper time, but had by adjournments been put outside the Act. Under the circumstances he considered thab no costs should be allowed tho defendant. —Mr Dufaur contonded thab the defendant was entitled to costs, as he was prepared to prove that he was not liable for the rates, whatever the land might be. Mr Cooper held thab as the defendant had already escaped a heavy liability the plaintiff should merely be nonsuited with costs. His Honor said that it was clear a rate was due when it became payable, and that the two years dated from such time. The simple question was, whether it was two yearg since the rate became due. • Such being the case, he could give no judgment. As to the matter of costs, the only ground for depriving the defendant of costs was that the case had gone off on a point nob raised by either of the contending parties. The defendant had been saved a very heavy expenditure owing to the carelessness of the local bodies.—Mr Dufaur referred to the fact that they were prepared to show that the defendant was in no way liable. His Honor said thab on the grounds that the defendant had nob succeeded on a plea raised by himself he should not be allowed costs. He thought it would be doing justice between the parties if he allowed judgment for the defendant without costs.

Clark v. Kelly.—ln this case Mr Burton appeared for the plaintiff and Mr Theo. Cooper for the defence. As the defendant was not in attendance, the case was by con sent put at the bottom of the list. : Riley v. Bisnor.—Mr Napier appeared for the plaintiff, and said that it was an action to obtain probate in the will of Mr Bishop, who was assassinated. He had bo ask for an adjournment of the case until the next sittings of the Court,as ab presenb bhey had nob sufficienb evidence to lay before the Court. That was owing to a question having been raised as to the identity of the person assassinated. It was therefore neces sary to bring over the body of deceased, and as ib would arrive by the next mail steamer the case could nob be proceeded with, at bhe present sessions.—His Honor accordingly granted the adjournment,

AN IMPRISONED KING.

THE GERMANS AND MALIETOA.

PRISONER TAKEN TO NEW

GUINEA,

(REPTER's TELEGRAM.)

Brisbane, October 5. THE German warship Adler has ar rived at Cooktown from Samoa, with the ex-King Malietoa on board. The ex-King was transferred from the Adler to the German warship Alba tross, which spiled this morning. The destination of the Albatross is not known, but is supposed to be German New Guinea.

Sydney, October 5.

News to hand from Cooktown states that the German warship Adler arrived thero from Samoa on Monday, and went up the harbour yesterday, the strictest isolation being maintained with tho shore. Shortly before the German gunboat Albatross sailed for Europe to-day, the ex-King Malietoa, his son, and threo Samoan chiefs were conveyed aboard. It ia understood that the Albatross will call at Thursday Island for further instructions.

LATER FROM SAMOA.

MALIETOA'S SURRENDER

HE WISHED TO AVOID BLOODSHED,

GERMAN PROCEEDINGS

[Via Fiji,]

Tbo steamer Liibeok arrived at Tonga from Samoa on September 22nd, aud re ports the German squadron still at Samoa numbering six vessels, two others having joined the original squadron. Malietoa surrendered himself to the German Com modore by request of English and Ameri can residents to save bloodshed, which would otherwise have ensued. The group is placed under a protectorate, with Tama sese as nominal king under tiie German Consul.

The John Hunt was expected at Tonga daily from Samoa, and the German cutter Niua-tani-tani was to leave Tonga for Samoa on 24th September to inform the German Commodore that the Opal has effected a strategic retreat to Fiji and that the coast is clear.

Our Fiji correspondent writes : "' It is in tended to deport Malietoa to German _ pos sessions in New Guinea. We in Fiji are too small and insignificant as a community to speak in tho matter, but the" general feeling is one of indignation, and a con viction that English prestiije has been further lowered in the South Pacific by thus allowing '-he German Empiro to practically ani 'us group. In German New Guinea Ji ;a will learn what an insult he ofl'ereu _io German Empire by passing as a protege of poor worn-out eiiete old England."

THE HUNT FOR MALIETOA.

A Boy Wounded,

The correspondent of the " Polynesia Gazette," who was at Apia, Samoa, on September 3rd, writes : —" Samoa is full of excitement ; 800 seamen landed from the four German warships, and picketed all over the town. Malietoa and his followers are all hiding in the bush, and make their home on a hill called Vaea, at tho rear of thetown. Tamaseseismade kingby the Ge rmans. Americans and English are being treated most unfairly. Mr. Moore, an American, when the Germans landed and took possession of his kind, struck a Ger man sailor in the face. This sailor was tried by court-martial for nob having bayonetted the American, and received a term of imprisonment. Citizens were bailed up by the command ' Halt' several times of an evening. " Thirteen German sailors, in search for Malietoa, lifted the screen of a bed where live boys were sleeping : one ran away with fear, and was fired at, being wounded through the palm of the hand. Afterwards he was taken on board one of the warships and doctored for his wounds. Martial law being proclaimed, no one is safe from moles tation. War is only declared against Malietoa, not against the Samoan people as a body."

The admiral of the German fleet now at Samoa has received orders to leave for home on the 20th October, bub ib is nob known whebher bhe brcuble bhab is now occupying his abbention there would interfere wibh this arrangmenb or nob.

TONGA.

THE OPAL'S MISSION.

EXPECTED BRITISH ANNEXATION,

By way of Fiji we have later news from Tonga. H.M.S. Opal arrived at Fiji from Tonga on the 27th inst., and her despatches were delivered ab Governmenb House. She was allowed bub a few hours for coaling and wabering, and then sent off again under sealed orders. The greatest possible offi cial reticence has been observed as regards the steamer's movements, but it is under stood that she returns direct to Tonga, with authority to the British Consul to hoist a British protectorate flag over the group, should need for such decided action arise. The Opal goes from Tonga to Samoa.

German Bounce.

News received ab Fiji by bhe Lubeck on the 22nd Sept. was to the effect that the officers of the German squadron at Samoa were loudly expressing their intention of annexing Tonga. Business and religious matters are both quiet here. Mr Symonds, British Consul at Samoa, is still at Nukualofa, very ill and mending slowly. Since the arrival of the Opal in Suva, ib is reported thab Her Britannic Majesty's Vice-Consul at Tonga has received instruc tions that should the German squadron heave in sight, he is to hoist tho British flag over the Tongan one, and take possession. The daughter of tho Rev. Shirley Baker, Premier of Tonga, is no bettor, the injuries sustained by the heroic young lady at tho time of the attempted assassination of her father having, it is to be feared, per manently crippled her.

LATEST SPORTING.

[by telegraph.—press association.]

Napier, this day. The Hawke's Bay Jockey Club's stakes total up to £1,159, of which Mr G. &L Stead receives £603 5s for Maxim's three victories. Mr Arrow comes next..with £142 10s.

A cablegram has been received from Sydney announcing the death of Mr A. Aylett. Deceased was well-known in local sporting circles.

POLITICAL GOSSIP.

SPECULATIONS. REGARDING

THE PREMIERSHIP.

SIR FRED. WHITAKER SPOKEN OF IN CONNECTION THEREWITH.

MEN WHO ARE MENTIONED AS

PROBABLE MINISTERS.

ATKINSON PREFERS "A STRONG

OPPOSITION TO A WEAK GO VERNMENT."

(by telegraph.—SPEClAL reporter.)

Wellington, this day.

Speculation is now very keen with regard to tho probable selection of men to fill the various portfolios in the new Ministry. The task of forming an administration for a House divided into so many sections is itself a very diflicult <ne, and the difficulties are increased tenfold by the approved fact that there are nearly thirty men at least who expect office, and some of these are certain to go into opposition if they do not get it. The awkwardness<6f the position certainly justifies Major Atkin son in his intention of leaving much of the responsibility to the party themselves. Perhaps the most difficult selection of all will be that of Premier. There is scarcely any likelihood of Major Atkinson taking it, even if ifc were tho desire of his party that he should do so. He is almost certain to be Colonial Treasurer. Opinion here inclines to the belief that Sir John Hall will be Premier, but it is very improbable that such a choice would meet with the con currence of the Northerners, and it would be likely to alienate the promised support of fc'ir Geo. Orey, who looks upon Sir J. fbdl's appointnien! fi:- out of lin.-. <"|iicsl ion. Mr Ormund is not .smi'ieior.ily popular to justify the expectation that lie would be ac cepted, and it is diflicult indeed to find another man of weight who would be likely to be accepted as the head of the Government. This is tho rock upon which a combination of loosely - knit sections would be most likely to split. The visit of Sir Frederick Whitaker to Wellington has given rise to the suggestion that in the event of an otherwise insurmountable obstacle to agree ment being arrived at on this point, lie would be induced to take the nominal head of the Government. His health is so bad that he could do no more, and would be of no use to his party beyond the assistance that his name and ad vice would lend. Such a Government as that which is likely to be formed would require in the Pre mier, if possible, a vigorous speaker in the Lower House. However, all kinds of rumours are afloat with regard to the Premiership, and if the Northern con tingent of the party raise no objection, there is very little doubt that Sir J. Hall will be chosen.

A Minister for Wellington. Feeling runs high here respecting the Wellington representative in the Cabinet. Messrs Beetham and Fisher and Dr. New man are spoken of, and the influenco of what are known as the governing families is being used on behalf of Mr Beetham, who appears to stand the best chance of getting the portfolio. Each of the three expected office, and the competition for the portfolio in some quarters is said to be as keen as if ib were an election contest. Mr Fisher is an able member and useful to his party, and has strong claims ; but bhe " Post " considers Mr Beetham's recommendations over whelming' and believes Dr. Newman should have the next best chauce.

Captain Russell

It is considered pretty certain that Cap tain Russell will be Native Minister, but he says he has no desire to take office in the present Government, and would only do so if it were the wish of his party.

Canterbury'!} Chance of Representation,

If Sir J. Hall is not provided with a portfolio, there is a likelihood that Canter bury will be unrepresented at the Cabinet, unless, indeed, through the medium of the Legislative Council. Neither Messrs Pear son nor Rhodes, ■ he other Opposition mem bers for Canterbury, are likely to be offered a portfolio.

Other Possible Ministers.

The choice for Otago is more extensive. Mr Fergus is considered almost certain to be included in the Cabinet, and the chances of Messrs Scobie McKenzie, G. F. Richardson, and Hislop for distinction are freely discussed. So far as Auckland is concerned, Mr Mitchelson's pro-pects for the position of Minister of Works are con sidered rather better than those ox Mr Fergus. Should Mr Mitchelson be omitted, Mr Peacock is considered to be next in order of probability, with Mr Moss and .Mr J. B. Whyte in the order named. Messrs Menteath, Allen, and Withy are also spoken of as possible Ministers, but of course much of all this gossip is mere conjecture. The election of the Ministry will be practically in the hands of the caucus, and the party is almost sure to be guided by a due regard for the opinions of the majority and the mainten ance of as strong a party as possible.

Sir F. Whitaker.

The advent of this veteran politician to Wellington at the present juncture is dis cussed by the " Post" in its leading article last night. The writer considers that " Major Atkinson has thus achieved one important point in the political game, and then proceeds to say if any man can convert a minority into a majority, thab man is Sir F. Whitaker. He has heretofore done some wonderful things in this way, and although advanced years and other causes have for some time past kept him in retirement and rendered has reappearance a mabber of doubb, bhere is no reason bo believe that he has lost any of his old skill. He will be invaluable to Major Atkinson as a counsellor in the present crisis, and there is no telling what may be accomplished with his aid and by his advice, especially as he may bo assumed to represent large financial institutions which are sup posed to take a good deal of interest in the political crisis in this colony. If Sir F. Whitaker is prepared to himself resume Ministerial office, his co-operation will relieve Major Atkinson of many and serious difficulties'. The position of Premier and the portfolio of Attorney-General would naturally fall to Sir F. Whitaker. No poli tician in the colony would feel any loss of prestige in serving under him as Premier, and his acceptance of the Attorney-General shio would satisfactorily solve one of the" most difficult problems likely bo presenb itself to Major Atkinson in the construction of a Cabinet. If Sir F. Whitaker accepts office _ there will be every reason to believe thab it will be found very difficulb to get rid of any combination to which he has lent tho sanc tion of his name, and the aid of his skill, experience, and ability. The question is— will Sir F. Whitaker's health enable him to take office ? We doubb it."

Advice to Self-Seeking Politicians,

Some very useful advice is given to self seeking politicians in the " Press " of last evening. The article trusts thab personal feelings and hopes will be sacrificed for bhe general good, and thus concludes,: "This is a very grave responsibility, and ab bhe same time a very high and gratifying privilege. Are we to be told that the Op position are going to behave like a pack of sulky and unruly children, and throw away this great opportunity of rendering a dis

tinguished service to their country merely because they cannot all be Ministers ? We refuse to beJieve an) thing so insulting alike to their intelligence, their patriotism, and their self-respect. Its may suit Sir Julius Vogel to put that notion abroad, but it is tlie wish that is father to the thought; it is even possible that he may believe it him self, for he always takes the lowest views of human nature, and is almost entirely incap able of attributing worthy motives to those who differ from him. There is nothing at all, howeyer, to justify any such belief, but on tlie contrary there are abundant indications in _ the opposite direction. Our own firm opinion is that the numerous and able party who have been returned against the Minis try will faithfully and brilliantly discharge the trust that has been reposed "in them by His Excellency, rightly interpreting the will of the country. We believe they will resolutely lay aside and repress individual jealousies and ambitions, and agree to the formation of a powerful administration under whom every one of them will exercise \ a large share of political influence and con sideration."

The Else in New Zealand Stock.

The controversy with respect to the rise in the English stock market still con tinues. Apropos of the statement by one of the evening papers that the rise is due to the elections, and that tho price is now higher than it has been since the Govern ment took office, I am authorised, to make the following explanation of the other side of the case : The Government were bound to keep off the market until nearly the end of October, and tho fear that the North Island Trunk Loan would be negotiated immedi ately the prescribed time elapsed kept down the price of stock. When the arrangements were made which rendered it unnecessary to place the loan for several months the stock at once went up. Yesterday morn ing it war, quoted at 9Sh. ex dividend, and it will probably go up to £100, or even more. Last half-year after the dividend was paid it went to 100 and has only fallen to 99-J since, and would have risen but for the fear of the new loan. As to the other statement, one fact alone suffices. The loan negotiated by the Government in 1885 realised over £±00.

The Justice Department.

It is beyond question that since Mr Tole took over the control of the Department of Justice he has effected a considerable saving in the expenditure by judicious amalgama tion of offices. I saw yesterday a list of further savings made since the recess, and they represent a total of £1,060 per annum. Since he took office, therefore, Mr Tole has reduced the expenditure of his department by £11,160, and this has been done without impairing the efficiency of the service in

any way

Vogel's Anxiety for Coalition Denied

Sir Julius Vogel's friends are annoyed at the statement made that he is endeavour ing to effect a coalition with Major Atkin son. They say that ib is wholly untrue thab he has either directly or indirectly made any overtures to Major Atkinson on tho subject. I am also assured that there is no truth in the published rumour of dis sension in the Cabinet on the ground, and that quite the contrary is the fact.

Wellington Post Office.

The matter of the renewal of the General Post and Telegraph Office destroyed by fire some little time ago is in a very awkward position. Tenders were called for the work, and it was understood that the estimate of a Christchurch firm was the lowest. The retiring Government do not consider that they would be justified, on the eve of their retirement, in committing their successors to such a large expenditure by the accept ance of a tender, and therefore the whole matter will remain in abeyance to be dealt with by the new Government.

First Offenders Probation Act

The operation and effect of the First Offenders Probation Act, which was intro duced here by Hon. Mr Tole, has been Witched with interest in New South Wales. Mr Tole has received a letter from the Minister of Justice of that colony, asking for a copy of that Act and for all the infor mation available respecting its working. He proposes to introduce the measure into the New South Wales Assembly. The in formation asked for is being forwarded.

Watchwords of the Atkinson Party.

Major Atkinson stated yesterday, in con versation with some of his friends, that he would not think of submitting the names of a new Cabinet to His Excellency unless he were perfectly certain that ib would com mand a good working majority. He also said that he would prefer to have with him a strong Opposition than a weak Govern ment, and thab the former would certainly be the more powerful in the House. The lines of the new Government according to the Major are economy in all departments of the service and stern retrenchment.

An Incorrect Report.

The "Press" republished an account of what is supposed to be an interview between a representative of one of the Auckland papers and the Minister of Justice, in which the latter is credited with making strong accusations with respect to his defeat. Mr Tole is somewhat annoyed at the article in question. He says he considers the con versation to be a private one, and did not intend what he said to be published. Be sides that, the account was written, not from notes bub from memory, and ib is nob altogether a correct rendition of what was said, and does both himself and those who are referred to an injustice.

THE LATEST.

WHO WILL EE PREMIER?

SIR JOHN HALL AND MR ORMOND DECLINE.

Some of the difficulties in the way of the selection of Premier of the new Ministry have been removed. Sir John Hall and Mr Ormond have both stated that they will not accept office. It is now considered almost certain that Major Atkinston will be chosen Premier and Sir Whittaker Attorney-General.

The Premier's Intentions,

Sir Pvobcrb Stout will not leave here before Monday, bhe Governor having asked him bo remain bill the new cabinet is formed.

Arrival of Southern Members.

There was quite a scene on the wharf at noon, when the s.s. Penguin arrived with the Southern members. Naturally, Mr Allen, who defeated the Premier, claimed most attention.

Mining Statement.

Mr Larnach informs me that he has pre pared the Mines Statement. As it con tains a deal of interesting information, he will ask the permission of the Uovise to lay it on the table.

The BSinisterial Party,

Ministers say they have a compact follow ing of Canterbury and "West Coast members, and bhab if Major Atkinson forms a Cabinet he will nob have a rosy time of it.

All -the Northern Memhe s Arrived

The Hon, P. Dignan, who was left behind yesterday at Waitoa, arrived by the noon train to-day, having suffered nothing by the trip down. All the other Northern mem bers arrived last night.

Lord High Executioner Garrard wishes ib understood that he is not to blame for the mischief done by dogs in bhe Albert Park. He frequently visits the park sometimes before 6 a.m., but cannot always be there. He will bo glad to perform the functions of his office upon any stray dogs captured there by the park keeper .or his assistants.

POLICE COURT—THIS DAY.

(Before H. C. Baddeley, Esq. ; R.M,)

Old Stagers.—Seven persons were fined for drunkenness, including several hab ituals. Mary Lock, who had 30 convictions recorded against her, read received days' im prisonment for drunkenness and three months imprisonment for being a roguo and a vagabond. Similar sentences were passed on Maria McGuiness and Mary Ann Russell, two very bad cases.

A Dangero os Practice. —Stephen March was fined Is and costs for driving at other than a walking pace round the corner of Shortland-street.

Unattended.—William Grant pleaded guilty to leaving his horse and cart un attended in Wakefield-street with the wheel unchained, and was fined Is and costs.

Offensive Screens. — Frederick Jabez Bennett, draper, pleaded guilty to erecting an offensive screen over a public footway in Queen-street without permission from tho City Council, and was fined Is and costs. Frederick Woodruffe was charged with a similar offence. He pleaded not guilty. Evidence was given by Constable Finnerfcy and Sergeant McMahon to show that the screen referred to was shown over Mr Levy's premises, the stock of which was understood to be in charge of defendant.—Defend an b was sworn and deposed that the screen was part and parcel of a sun blind, of which there were scores in Queen-street. —Eis Worship said he would adjourn this case to allow someone to visit the place. .

Wandering Houses.—George Hewitt pleaded guilty to allowing a horse to wander in Jervois Road, and was fined 5s and costs. Timothy Hayes was charged with a similar offence.—He pleaded guilty. Eeing an old offender, he was fined 7s 6d and costs, and was informed that further offences would incur increased fines.

INTERFERING WITH THE SALVATION ARMY.

At the Police Courb this morning, before MrH.C. Baddeley,R. M, Thomas Patterson was charged with having been drunk when in charge of a horse in Cleveland Road, Parnell, on September 25th lasb. Evidence was given to show that bhe defendant and Albert Hooker, who was charged with a similar offence, behaved in a very unseemly m'inner by interfering wibh the Salvation Yrmy on the afternoon of the 25th inst. 'i ,ie Army was walking along the footpath in Cleveland Road, when the defendants came along on horse back. _ They were both drunk, and Hooker rode his horse across the footpath to prevent the soldiers from passing, and if it had not been for Captain Jachson promptly taking hold of one of the horses some of the females would have been run over. It was also al leged that Patterson used some very bad language. His Worship considered the offence a very bad one, and ordered Patter son to pay £5 and costs and Hooper £3 and

costs.

GUM-DIGGERS IS TROUBLE.

Many complaints have recently been made by owners of property in the vicinity of Birkenhead owing to the damage done on their farms by careless parties in search for gum. At the Police Court this morning, two young men, each about 18 years oi' age, named Edward Simkins and John Perez were charged with having damaged the property of Terence Crooks ab Birkenhead, and causing damage to the amount of £5. Defendant pleaded not guilty. Evidence was given by Mr Crookß to show thab he had warned the defendants not to dig for gum on his land, and then put notices up stating that it would be at their risk if they trespassed again. The defendants were subsequently found digging gum on his property. A great deal of damage had been done to his property by gumdiggers, but he did not charge the defendants with all of it. They had caused damage to the amount of about £2. Sergeant Pratt stated that the com plainant had reported the matter to the police, and had been advised to take these proceedings, although he had only his own evidence to support a conviction. Both defendants were sworn, and denied having been on complainant's property after they had been warned off in bhe first instance. They also urged that the land was not fenced. His Worship said he did not see that people should be forced to fence their land in order to' keep gumdiggers off. If the gum was worth having it was surely worth their trouble to obtain leave to dig for it. He would not inflict any fine, how ever, as Mr Crooks did not desire it, but hoped the case would act as a warning, as very heavy fines would have to be inflicted in future. They would have to pay the costs, 14s.

THE CANTERBURY MURDER.

Verdict of Coroner's Jury.

(BY TEI_G.BAJ?H—OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

CHRiSTCHrj.ECH, this day. The inquest on the Russian Finn, Johansen» who was stabbed on Monday nighb, was held ab Little River yesterday, lasting all day. Little new was elicited. A knife picked up on the road near the Hotel was identified as Jacobsen's. Jacobsen, on whose hands and trousers blood had been found, denied knowing anything of Johan sen's death. Hyman. said that as he, Jacobsen, and deceased were- walking from the hotel where they had had a disagree ment about a glass that Jacobsen had broken, Johansen cried out, turned back, and lay down on the verandah, making a noise from his chest like a beast when it is struck. Hyman then walked away. Jacobsen overtook him, say ing he had left Johansen balking bo some Englishmen. Ab 10.25 p.m. bhe jury, after 15 minutes' retirement, returned a verdict of wilful murder against Nils Jacobsen.

COMING EVENTS.

Meetings, &c, To-night,

Olympia Hall, Grey-street—Skating Rink, 7.A0 to 10. Abbott's Opera House—Farewell Concert by the Greenwood Family, 8 Grafton Road Wesleyan Schoolroom—Entor

tainmcnt, 7.30 V.M.C.A. Rooms—Evangelistic Service, 7.30 Drill-shed—A Battery New Zealand Regiment Artillery, 7.30 Auckland Tabernacle—Service at 7.30 Ponsonby Hall—Ponsonby Rifle Corps, 8 Renuiera Hall—Remuera Social Union, 8 V M.C A. Rooms—Members of Auckland Athonanirn. 8 All Saints' Church, Ponsonby- Sacred Concert, 8 Holy Trinity Church, Dcvouport— Concert. 8 Ponsonby Club Hotel Ponsonby Rowing Club, 8

Kota oif Jnsticcs sit Police Court.

October 7-Messrs 11. Brett and J. F. Buddie

Auction Sales To-morrow.

Arthur and Buddie—Weekly Poultry and Pro duce Sale, 11 Hunter and Nolan, Durham Yards — Horses, etc., 11. W. J. Dowden—Weekly Poultry and Produce Sale, 11 S. Cochrane and Son—Household Furnitm-e and Effects, 11 Paget and Ralston — Poultry, Produce, Furni ture, 10.30 B. Lcydon—Poultry, Produce, etc., 11 J. Leydon—Poultry, Produce, Furniture,etc., 11 A. Aitkcn—Poultry, Produce, etc., 12 T. M. Jackson—Producu, Furniture, etc., 11 G. W. Binney—Produce, etc , 11 B. Tonks and Co.— Merchandise, Fruit, etc , 11; Privileges of Onehunga Jockey Club's Spring Meeting, 12 i T, M. Jaokson-r-Household Furniture, etc,, 11,

THE AUCKLAND EVENING STAR, THURSDAY, OCTOBER (I 1887,

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