TELEGRAPHIC NEWS.

[per press telegraph agency.]

Wellington, October 13.

A brilliant ball was given . last night by the members ot the Assembly. About 400 persons were present ambh'gst whom were his Excellency the Governor, Lady Normanby, and Captain Digby, of H;M S: Sappho. It was held in the large buildings just erected as an addition to the Museum, and the rooms were decorated with flags 1 of all nations. There was an excellent band, and every arrangement was simply perfect.

Wellington, October 14.

The House met at 2 30 p.m.

In reply to Mr Swanson, the Native Minister said that Mr Brissenden's dismissal from the Land Purchase Department had nothing to do with his land purchases, which had been perfectly regular and satisfactory. Mr Brissenden had written, asking to terminate his contract with the Government.

Several Bills were passed, including the Lodgers Franchise Bill.

A considerable portion of the afternoon the House was occupied discussing the fifth clause of the Representation Bill and Mr Kelly's amendment ; but no progress was made up to 5.30 p.m., when the House rose.

Dunedin, October 15.

A meeting of the Guardian shareholders' was held yesterday. It was resolved that a further call of £l per share should be made, which would pro.Juce £3000, and make the amount per share called up £4 10s on £5 shares. The shareholders ex pressed their approval at the literary improvements on the paper, and considered its position on the whole satisfactory. The balance sheet shows a loss for the year of £1700, and outstanding debts due to the Company ovej £3000.