Evening Post. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31. 1887. 1887.

Evening Post, Volume XXXIV, Issue 156, 31 December 1887, Page 2

Evening Post. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31. 1887. 1887.

When the year now fast drawing to its close was born, the political barometer in Europe was set at " stormy," and it has remained so ever since. War, fortunately, has not occurred, but rumours of war have been exceedingly rife, and almost all the continental nations have during the year enormously increased their armaments. Armed to the teeth, and fully prepared, they now appear to be watching each other, eagerly and jealously awaiting a favourable opportunity for attack. Diplomatists talk peace, but it is evident that the prospects of peace being maintained are of a slender character. On one or two occasions during the last twelve months the crisis appoared very near, but, fortunately, it was averted. The Sohnaebell incident, followed soon afterwards by the "accidental" shooting of a Frenoh officer and his gamekeeper by a German Bentry on the frontier, appeared at first likely to precipitate matters, but the difficulty was in each case smoothed over without a resort to arms. The occurrences, however, undoubtedly produced, and have left, a good deal of national irritation on each side. The formation of the Triple Alliance between Germany, Austria and Italy has been one of the most important political events of the year. Although not formally included in this offensive and defensive compact, England, it is well understood, ia in strong- sympathy with it, and in the event of complications arising to render English intervention necessary in any Continental quarrel, England would undoubtedly coalesce with the allied nations. Ab a counterpoise to the Triple Alliance, the bonds of sympathy between Russia and France have been greatly strengthened, and the two countries would probably, if either were threatened, take the field together. One very remarkable feature of the situation is the strong, firm attitude which Italy has takon up amongst the Powers. Italy is now a great naval power, and, if it has not more peaceful instincts, it has, at least, less temptation to assail its neighbours than any other of the Great Powers. It is 'not likely to originate any quarrel, and the strength it is capable of bringing to bear in assisting its allies is an important consideration, likely to exercise a restraining effect upon the ambition of those who would have to reckon aho with Italy if they quarrelled with another nation. Fortanatel}, Italy and England are, to a large extent, bound together by community of interest and of thought upon most of the disturbing political questions of the day. Auatria, also, is very friendly with England, but much excited in regard to Rnssia, whose military movements upon the frontier have recently been of a suspicious and threatening charaoter. Germany, still guided by the hand of Bismarck, although Austria has, for a time, lost Kalnoky, is grimly peaceable. The elections of the year at first seemed to indicate the growth of serious internal danger to the Empire, but the iron will and diplomatic skill of the great Chancellor enabled him to surmount the obstacles thrown in his way, and he, in the end, triumphed, and carried his point for an increase of the army. One of the most extraordinary features of the German electoral campaign was the fact that Bismarck was actually able to enlist the powerful influence of the Papal Court on his aide. Rome has no sympathy with Socialism, and more than once during the year now dying, the Pope has appropriately used his influence to seoure the maintenance of peace, to smooth over international difficulties, and to advance the cause of law and order. It :s_ very long since any Pontiff held as politically influential a position in Europe as Leo XIII. While the Emperor of Germany lives, the Empire will be at peace, or at least will not be the first to break it, but his death cannot, in the course of nature, be far distant, and what will then occur, none can say. Tho unfortunate and precarious position of the gallant Crown Prince greatly complicates the position. He is probably scaroely equal to the weight of the Crown, but naturally he objects to a Regency, and under any circumstance* a Regenoy would be weak in its influence abroad and in its rule at home. Russia continues the chief disturbing element in both European and Asiatic politics. With regard to the latter, however, it is satisfactory to note the settlement of the long-standing delimitation question regarding the boundaries of Afghanistan . This tettlement for a time removes the dangc? of A rupture between England and Russia, but it would be unwise to trust feo mnch to its proving permanent. Rnssia never holds her' self bound by treaties when it suits her purpose to disregard them, and the now settled boundaries will offer no obstacle to

her invasion of Afghanistan when the opportune time arrives. In the meanwhile Russia steadily continues her advance in Central Asia, and there can be little doubt that the Turcoman demonstration against the Ameer, the Ghilzais' rebellion, and the escape of Ayoub Khan (iince rc-cf^turcd), all had a Russian origin. IntetCtfiiy, Russia is ma very unsettled state. The Czar rules by terror, not by love, and during the year several attempts on his life have beea recorded. He is compelled to live in strictly guarded seclusion, and a terrible system of stern repression prevails abroad. The condition of the serfs is said to be Bomethmg terrible, the emancipation granted by the late Emperor having practically ceased to operate. The higher classes are little better off, and the Jews are terribly persecuted. Amongst the events of the year none can con. % better impression of the unhappy condition of Russia than the recent closing of all the universities save one, and the ukase which confines the privilege of a higher education to a selected few of the children of the privileged classes. The Czar desires his subjects to remain in densest ignorance. France, during the year, has once or twice appeared on the verge of revolution and of war, and is even now in a seething condition. The Princeß have been expelled in a most summary manner, and some unsavoury military and political scandals have strangely enough resulted in the expulsion of M. Grery from the Presidents chair, and the unexpected promotion of an almost unknown man iv M. EUdi-Carnot to the supreme position. How he will guide the destinies of tho Republic remains to be seen. General Boulanger threatens to be a disturbing element, but it may be doubted whether hia ability is quite equal to his craving for notoriety. Amongst international matters, the very satisfactory Convention securing the neutrality of the Suez Canal is a subject of congratulation, and the colonies have also to be glad that at the same time an understanding was arrived at as to the New Hebrides question. Although that understanding haß not yet been given effect to, there is every reason to believe that it will lead to the speedy evacuation of the islands, and probably also to the entire abandonment of the transportation of Recidivistes to the French possessions in the Pacific. England's occupation of Egypt has continued during the year, notwithstanding the ill-concealed jealousy of France, and it appears likely to continue. The efforts of Sir Drummond Wolff to conclude a satisfactory convention proved futile, owing, it is believed, to French influence inducing the Porte to withhold its ratification. Osman Digna is still in the Soudan, and has made his existence known once or twico by spirited forays. In connection with Egypt may be noticed the fact that Italy has despatched a large force, with hostile intent, to Abyssinia, and as King John iB obstinate, some severe flghtincr may be expected. The offer of England to mediate in tho quarrel has led to no result. The Principalities have, of course, been the great centre of political interest during the year, and the final settlement of the questions at issue there appears as far off as ever. The Bnlgarian Sobranje seems determined to adhere to Prince Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg, although, by all acoounta, he has littk to recommend him personally as a Ruler. Russia entertains a strong objection to him, and naturally resents his action in proceeding to the scene of action and assuming the Sovereignty before his election was ratified or approved by the Powers, as required by tho constitution. Turkey seems afraid or unwilling to act in a decided manner, although urged by Russia to do so. The other Powers appear to take very little real interest in the Balkan question, but there can be no doubt that the situation is a grave one, and the spark to set Europe in a blaze may not unlikely como from that quarter. Wo might almost venture to predict that Prince Ferdinand will not retain the throne of Bulgiria for any lengthened period. Before dismissing further consideration of matters bearing on thu issue of peace or war, it may not bo inappropriate here to note the English deputation to the President of the United States, soliciting the influence of that country in introducing a system of international arbitration to settlo disputes now usually referred to the determination of military force. Although, of course, no practical result was attained, the President's reply was of a character likely to exercise some influence. In connection with Continental affairs, the commencement of tho canal which is to unite the waters of tho Baltic and German Ocean is worthy of special attention. Turning now to tho consideration of Home matters, the chief event of the year's history of the Empire has of course been the celebration of the Jubilee of Her Majesty's happy reign. In almost all parts of her dominions this auspicious event was celebrated with the utmost enthusiasm and the most complete suocess. It has undoubtedly drawn the Queen closer to her people, and the magnificent gifts which tho latter so lavishly offered to their Sovereign Bhow how deep a hold she has on their affections. Tho Jubilee is to be permanently commomorated by the establishment of the Imperial Institute, tho foundation stone of which has already been laid. The scheme is a noblo one, and we regret that it has not met with the support from this colony which it deserves, and which, we believe, it would have been wise in our own interests to have accorded. The Jubilee coinage, which was also designed as a commemoration, was certainly not a success. In writing of the celebration of the Jubilee, wo are sorry to have had to use any qualification as to its universal character throughout tho Empire, but unfortunatoly truth compels us to note the fact that in one portion of her Majesty's dominions there was a marked coldness, which is not to be wondered at under the circumstances. It was a deplorable coincidence that the year of Jubileo should witness the passing of such a measure as the Crimes Act, ana its enforcement in unhappy Ireland in the relsntlooa and rigorous Btylo "whiota — has marked its administration. The manner in which Ireland throughout this Jubilee yoar | has been treated, has been more in accordance with Russian tradition than with English feelin? and in a country where suoh occurrences as the Bodyke evictions and the Mitchelltown tragedy are possible, it ws s certainly scarcely to be expected that exuberant loyalty should be shown towards the Sovereign in whoso name such things are done. If they had been permitted to be loyal, probably no people in the world would have displayed their feelings more generously than the Irish. The Crimes Act is a blot on English legislation. The application of the elotuto to force its passage through Parliament was entirely unprecedented, and its subsequent administration has been of the most terribly severe character. In fact the severity has, to some extent, produoed a reaction, for the by-elections which have takon place in England during the \ ear have shown in a very marked manner that public opinion there is ohanging upon tho Irish question. Mr. Gladstone has secured several Home Rule victories at the poll, and has strengthened his party by converts from the Unionist ranks. There is indeod every reason to hope and to believe that the next general election, which is probably not far distant, will place in power a party pledged and determined to settlo the Irish difficulty, once and for ever, on a goner ou 3 and and equitable basis, conceding to that country what it so earnestly desires — a measure of self-government of at loast as liberal a character as is enjoyed by the colonies. The recent reductions in judicial rents show iiow substantial Irish tenant grievances have been. The Conservative Government, shaken to its centre by Lord Randolph Churchill's secession, at the close of last year, has not strengthened itself in Parliament or in the country since. Lord Hartington wiiely refused the Premiership, although ho has continued to give Lord Salisbury a inoßt loyal support, the Round Tablo Conference, from which much was at the time hoped, having failed to reconcile tie differences between Mr. Gladstone and the Unionists. The death of Lord Iddealeigb, and the retirement, through ill-health, of Sir Michael HicksBeaoh, were severe blows to the party, and the inclusion of Lord Cadogan and Mr. Ritchie in the Cabinet did not do much to improve its composition, but the adhesion of Mr. Gosolen certainly imported an clement of strength, for he is a man of great ability. His position in a Conservative Ministry, however, cannot be a pleasant one. He bad to nndergo a humiliating defeat at Liverpool bafore he succeeded in securing a seat in the House. Mr. Goschon's inolusion in the Ministry was more than counterbalanced, in a party sense, by the adhesion of Sir George Trevelyan to Mr. Gladstone, and his victory at Glasgow. Mr. Balfour, who assumed the Irish Secretaryship during the year, has ovinced unexpected ability, great firmness, and unhesitating determination in carrying out disagreeable duties. Lord Dnnraven's retirement Irom office must also be noted. Sir Redvers Buller has managod to work himself clear of a position which he had no taste for, and it remains yet to be seen what position Sir West Ridgwuy may take in his now sphere of action. Mr. Parnell's alleged letter and Mr. O'Donnoll's libel action against Tho Times are matters of whioh more will yet be heard. The mission of Monsignor Porsico to Ireland to investigate the condition of affairs, for the information of the Pope, will, it is hoped, produce good fruit, especially as something like a renewal of direct diplomatic relations, busponded since the Reformation, has been established between the Court of St. James and the Vatican. The seals of the Colonial Office early in the year passed from the hands of Mn Stanhope to those of Sir Henry Holland, who presided with conspicuous ability over the Imperial Colonial Conference, the assembling of which was one of the most remarkable events in the history of the year. Much good is likely to result from its labours, in promoting the nnity of the Empire and providing adeqnate means for the defence of the outlying portions. The Sugar Bounties Conference is another gathering whioh may produce good results, and there have also been Railway and Hygiene Conferences held on the Continent, bat with what results it is at present impossible, to say. The organisation and despatch of Stanley's expedition for the relief of Emm Bey is a notable event of the year. Fishery disputes have cropped up frequently daring 1887, and awkward difficulties connected therewith have arisen between the Ostend fshermen and those of England, while the disputes between Canada and' the States as to fishing rights have necessitated the appointment of an International Commission, on which, somewhat unwisely, Mr. Joseph Chamberlain was appointed the English representative, probably to remove him, for a time, from the English political stage. No result has yet accrued. England's " little war "iin Burmah still goes on, and that country may now be regarded as permanently annexed to the Indian Empire, although it will probably be some time before the situation is accepted by all the native inhabitants. Tho year has also witnessed a farther annexation in India, and has been distinguished by tho magnificent offers of at least two native rulers, to contribute large sums of money, and numbers of men, to assist in the maintenance of English rale in India, should necessity arise. In South Afrioa, matters still remain somewhat unsettled. The discovery, if substantiated, of riah auriferous reefs in Wales, will be remembered as an event of the year, and the Socialist and Unemployed demonstrations in London deserve mention as indicating a state of affairs which bodes trouble in the future. The Ajlesbury and Hughes-Hallett scandals, and the Laigworthy and Endaoott cases,

have also attracted a good deal of public interest and attention. The commencement of the Liverpool and Manchester Ship Can il is important in a commercial point of view. Turning away from Europe for a time, the celebration of the splendid Centenary of the United States constitution, is an event of much interest. The American Government, although Republican, has shown no disposition to tolerate anarchism, as is proved by the atern justice meted out to the Chicago conspirators, and the steps taken to suppress or defeat tho schemes of dynamiterß. The excommunication of Father M'Glynn, of New York, is an occurrence of some interest. A change ot Government almost amounting to a revolution has to be noted in Hawaii, and the attempt to assassinate the Rev. Mr. Shirley Baker in Tonga, together with his severe retaliatory measures and the religious persecutions which led to the trouble, also demand notice. The deposition of King Malietoa in Samoa and the high-handed action of Germany in regard to the affairs of that oonntry are, of course, fresh in our readers' recollection. Ihe appointment of a Fijian Bettlor, Sir J. Thnraton, to the Governorship of the colony, has to be recorded, as also a proposal, not likely to be given effect to, for the annexation of Fiji to Victoria. On the Australian Continent the year has not been a particularly eventful one. Adelaide has had a successful Exhibition, and Victoria is arranging one to commemorate the Australian Centenary next year, an event which the Benior colony of New South Wales will also celebrate in a becoming manner, although the first attempt at doing so by attempting to appropriate to its own sole use the nama of the continent of which it is but a part, has excited strong opposition and no inconsiderable amount of ridicule. The aspirations of Western Australia for constitutional government, although favourably regarded by the Imperial authorities, do not seem altogether to meet with approval from the Home press, which urges the retention of the lands of the oolony in order to apply them to the relief of the overcrowded and unemployed population of the Mother Country. The proposed redaction of postage between Australia and England, and the new mail contract, are important matters, and so is the suggested Antarctic expedition from Australia. Politically the Australian event of the year has been the New South Wales elections, and the decided defeat which the Protectionists BUBtained. The Bhearers' strike in Victoria may be noted, and the several Blight outbreaks of smallpox in Tasmania, Sydney, and other places. Fortunately the fell disease has not succeeded in effecting a permanent hold in any of the colonies. Amongst the distinguished visitors to Australia during the year, the Chinese Commissioners are entitled to the first rank. After them come the Earls and Countesses of Aberdeen and Carnarvon, Lord and Lady Brassey, the Earl of Buckingham, Messrs. Hazell and Hodgins (Emigration Commissioners), Lord Shaftesbury, the Marquis and Marchioness of Drogheda, the Marquis of Normanby, and a number of lesser notabilities. Tho arrangements for the creation of an Australasian naval squadron are a subject for congratulation. The record of disaster and crime all the world over is a large one. The Italian and French earthquakes, the Indiana, railway collision, tho burning of the Opera Comique in Paris and of tho Exeter Theatre, the eruptions in California, the railway accident at Doncaster, and the burning of a petroleum train at St. Thomaß', U.S., the Calabrian and Central Asian earthquakes, the Illinois railway accidents, the Übston colliery accident near Glasgow, the drowning of 300 Hungarian pilgrims in the Danube, the great fire in Madras, Whiteley's fire, the loss of H.M.S. Wasp with all hands, the wrecks of the Kapunda and Tasmania, the loss of the Victoria at Dieppe, the Rotterdam collision in the Channel, and the burning of the Wah Kungin the China Seas, hold the first place in tho foreign rooord of disasters, involving large loss of life ; while Australia adds to the gruesome list the Bulli colliery explosion, the destrnction of the pearling fleet by hurricane, the wreck of the s.s. Cheviot, and the Peat's Ferry and Windsor railway accidents. Fortunately New Zealand has no sad experience of great disaster to swell the catalogue. In European crimes those of Pranzini hold a first place, while in Australia the year has been marked by the execution of the four Mount Ronnie criminals, and the lamentable wholesale murder, by a maniacal father, of his wife and children at Inverell. In this colony, final justice was executed on the persons of Perm and Caffrey, the Great Barrier murderers. Thomas Hall, by a legal quibble, escaped a similarly welldeserved fate, and although three natives were convicted of a double murder at Gisborne, tho capital sentences were not carried out, as the crime was the result of superstition rather than of malice. The murder of a Finn, by a compatriot at Little River, Canterbury, must be mentioned. Suicides havo bean most unfortunately prevalent, many of them of a moat distressing character. The Chiistcharch abortion cases, resulting in the conviction of Dr. Russell, deserve notice in the criminal record. Wellington has, unfortunately, contributed one or so commercial scandals to the list of remarkable cases which havo engaged the attention of the law courts. * * In marine disasters of a less 'fatal character than those referred to abate may be noted the collision of two Atlantic liners, resulting in the total loss of one, the Vreok of the Derry Castle at the Auckland Isles, the sinking of the Darling Downes, 1 and the wreck of the Westland. Locally, the lobs of the fine ship Northumberland, Kid attendant fatal loss of the Boojum and Sir Donald holds the first place. Amongst »W otljer wrecks may be mentioned those of tho cui,_tors Lizaie and Dauntless, the blb. Waitaki, Go-Ahead, Hauraki, and Tongarlru, the schooners Reward, Therinopyias, and Mariner, the k«toh Recamja, the Lallah Rookh, and the Omaha at the Chathams. Fires have aa usual been prevalent, and amongst them we give a place to Barnum's museum. In this colony, Blenheim and Wellington have been specially unfortunate, having eaoh been visited by three large fires in the course of the year. The General Post Office, the block in Panama-street, and the fire at Lindsay's corner, are those which oeourred here, and there have been several smaller ones, but ufortunately some involved loas of life, whioh two of the Blenheim fires were fatal, and so was the great fire whioh destroyed Guthrie and Larnach's manufactory in Dunedin. Gisborne also has suffered largely from fire— not for the first time, but the largest number of fires has been in Auokland, where incendiarism has evidently been rife. Convictions for this crime have, we are glad to say, been secured in both Auckland and Dunedin, followed by heavy sentences. The drowning of four children in a dray in the Ashburton River, tho Tologa Bay and Petone boat accidents, and the unfortunato poisoning of several persons by decomposition in a meat pie at the table of the Venerable Archdeacon Clarke, at the Bay of Islands, all have to be noted with regret. The obituary of the year is a long one, and includes, amongst politicians, Lord Iddeslejgh, Peter Rylands, M.P., A. S. Ayrtcra, Berosford Hope, iLF., Lord Lyons, Sir W. Mo Arthur, M P., the Dnke of Leinater, Lords Ramsay and Hindlip, and tho Marquis of Dajhonsie ; amongst lawyers, Sergeants Ballantine and Sleigh; amongst authors and artists, Sir George Macfarren, Jenny Lind, Lady BraSßey, Miss Muloch, Alfred Domett, Mrs. Henry Wood, James Grant, M. Katkoff, W. E. Sheridan ; amongst clergymen, Cardinal Jaoobini, tho R.C. Primate of Ireland, Father Beckx (Prinoipal of the Jesuits), Rev. Ward Beechor, and Monsignor Fyneß, of Auckland; amongst soldiers, Baker Paßha and Colonel Lyon ; amongst governors, Sir George Strahan and Sir Thomas Gore Browno; in sporting oiroles, Boyd, the sculler, and George Fordham, the jockey ; amongst the natives, Wi Tako, Topini, and Hakueno ; while amongst colonists, James Macandrew, Hon. Major Richmond, Hon. John Johnston, John Moore, Sir Julius yon Haast, Richard Winter, Captain M'lntyre, F. A. Whitaker, Rev. H. Clere, W. V. Millton, Mrs. Schultz, Mr. and Mrs. Stilling, T. Telford, Alfred Dobson, George Adams, and Edward Dorsett are amongst those to bo mourned. Tho deaths of Sir Joseph Whitworth and Mr. William Denny are also to be noted. In religious matters in the oolonies, there has been a marked advancement. Melbourne has obtained a new Bishop in the person of the Right Rev. Dr. Goe, who shows every prospect of proving a fit successor to Bishop Moorhouse, now Bishop of Manchester. The See of Bathurst has been filled by the consecration of the Rev. Canon Camidge, a well-known and exemplary Yorkshire rector. In the Roman Catholic Church, six new Sees and four Vicariates have been created, and New Zealand has had the pleasure of seeing Canterbury made an independent Diocese, placed under the charge of an eminent man, the Rev. Dr. Grimes, shortly expooted to arrive, and of finding the Right Rev. Dr. Redwood, Bishop of Wellington, and almost a native of the colony, elevated to archiepiscopal rank. In sporting matter?, the defeat of the British yacht by an American competitor, in the International race for the America Cup, deserves the first place. Hanlan's defeats by and of Gaudaur, followed by his final defeat in Australian waters by Beach, must also be mentioned. Directing attention now to New Zealand affairs, it is with regret we have to record the continued depression which weighs with exceptional severity on the northern and southern portions of the colony. Welling ton is generally admitted to be better off than most of its neighbours, and although business is not so brisk as wo shonld like to Bee it, still, there is comparatively Ht+le to complain of, and much to encourajf o hope and inspire confidence in the future. The wise and prudent resolution of the Bank of New Zealand not to pay a dividend, which it had not earned, although unpleasant, was wholesome, and has done the colony good rather than harm. The improvement in the valne of wool is a cheerful item, and our other staple product, grain, also shows signs of increasing firmness in value. The West Coaat coalfields are rapidly developing themselves, and there are not wanting signs of a general mining revival. One feature of the year has been the introduction of foreign capital to aid mining enterprise, and, as instances, maybe mentioned the floating of the Endeavour Inlet Antimony Company, tho Waihi and other companies of the Thames, and the Bine Spur and Island Block Companies of Otago, on the London market. There is every reason to believe that the English investors in these ventures will have no cause to regret their enterprise, and that their success will encourage others. Tho existence of rioh oil springs in Poverty Bay has been demonstrated, and capital will be forthcoming for their development. The turning of the first sod of the Midland Bailway, the subsequent opening of the first section of the line, and the practical completion of the contract with the Company for the construction of the whole line, are events on which the Colony is to be congratulated. Amongst other public works oommenced or completed during tha year may be mentioned the Napier breakwater, the first stone of which was laid some months ago, and the Clarence bridge, which has been formally opened. The extension of the Napier railway line to Woodville, and of the Masterton line to Maugamahoe, as well <w the progress made

with, and the further provision for, the Manawatu Gorge lme, are satisfactorj facts which we have to record. Amongut other matters demanding reference, we may mention the strike of the Auckland Seamens Unionists, which has led to the establishment of a new, and co-operative, line of steamers in the coastal trade. The year has also witnessed the initiation of a new direot line of steamers, affording stockholders reduced rates of freight for their frozen stock. The decision of the Privy Council in the Hall-Haslam patent case has been a fortunate one for the new trade. The retirement of Mr. William Seed, Secretary of Customs, after a long and honourable career in the Civil Service; the knighthood deservedly conferred on Dr. Hector: the elevation of Sir Edward Stafford to a Baronetcy ; and the final settlement of the Bryce-Rußden case, are events of the year whioh should not be omitted from our review. The formal extension of tho boundaries of the oolony so as to include the Kermadec Islands must also be noted, and also the preliminary steps which have been taken towards the ascertainment of the best route for a telegraphic cable which will unite this colony with the American ooast The opening of tho Canadian Paoifio Kailway lino is also an event of interest and importance to New Zealand. Native affairs are quiet, and now excite little attention. There has been nothing in them during the past year to demand notice, save the raid successtully made to put an end to certain Buperstitious observances at Hokianga, which might have caused disturbance, and the Btern enforcement of the law against the Parihaka sly-grog sellers. With regard to the politics of the year we need not say much. The events whioh led to the defeat of the Stout- Vogel Government in the late Parliament, their" appeal to the country and signal defeat at the ballot-box, the formation of the present Ministry, and the course of subsequent legislation during the recent session, must be so fresh in the minds of our readersthatweneednotreoallthem. Locally, wo havo to congratulate Wellington on the amicable and satisfactory arrangement come to between the local bodies, in regard to harbour reclamation affairs, on tho progress of reolamaiion, the determination to light the city with electricity, the improvements in wharf accommodation, made and in progross, the erection of the Girls' High School, Government printing office, and many* other business and private buildings, the rapid growth of population in the city, and the extension of settlement around it. Less satisfactory is it to have to record the fact that it has for the first time been nocessary this year to strike a rate for the maintenance of charitable and benevolent institutions. Turning now from the past to the future, we think we can detect signs of increased prosperity and progress likely to be realised during tho coming twelve month' , and it is therefore with a cheerful and somewhat confident spirit that we heartily wish our readers A Happy New Yeae !

The Premier and Mrs. Atkinson returned from Nelson by the Takapuna this morning. The Customs duties collected at the port of ¦Wellington for the month of December amounted to .£17,618 3s Bd, and the beer duty .£564 12s lOd. The B.M.S. Tongariro passed Farewell Spit at 9.35 this morning, bound for Wellington from London. She is expected to arrive in port between 5 and 6 o'clock this evening. The mails will be sorted immediately on her arrival, and thero will be a delivery over the public counter of the Post Office at 9 o'clock, to which hour the ordinary delivery will be postponed. The Government Buildings were closed at 4.30 p.m. yesterday, and will not bo reopened until 9.30 a.m. on Wednesday. His Worship the Mayor and Mrs. Brown returned from Lyttelton by the Penguin this morning, the holiday trip on whioh thoy were engaged having sadly interrupted by the receipt of the news of the traffio death of their son. Mr. Jellicoe, solicitor, who returned to the colony, via Auckland, on Tuesday last, after several months' absence in England, is expected to reach Wellington on Monday. Mr. John Kirkcaldie, of the firm of Kirkcaldie and Stains, will be a passenger for San Francisco by the outward mail steamer, business of importance requiring Mb presence m London. He leaves Wellington by the Takapuna this evening. i.i M F;.^ or^ on> tlia Inspecting Engineer of the Mines Department, leaves on a tour of inspection through the Auckland goldflelds next week. • An alteration has been made in the time advertised for the morning train leaving the Upper Hutt on Monday next. Instead of a train leaving at 11.22 a.m., as advertised on our fourth page, it has been altered to tho earlier hour of 8.45 a.m. A gracoful act of benevolenco has just been, performed by the direotors of the National Mutual Life Association of Australasia in the payment of i; 100 to the widow of Mr. W. A, Collins, who died at Palmerston North a short time ago. Ib seems that Mr. Collins insured his life for £200 in the National Mutual office some twelve months .since, but he was unfortunately seized with illness during the days of grace usually allowed for the payment of the premium, and the second premium was not paid at the date of his death, by whioh time the policy had lapsed. Under these circumstances, of course, no claim could legally have been made upon tho institution, but, after consideration of the circumstances, the Wellington directors of the Association decided to present Mrs. Collins with £100. Their liberality will be generally appreciated by other insurers in the Association and by the public generally. A resident of Wellington has received a letter from Mr. Brook-Smith, who is now in London, stating that he is engaged in superintending the construction of a large dredger to recover tho gold on tho beach between Greymouth and Hokitika. Mr. BrookSmith was out in New Zealand some months ago with the object of pushing the sale of dredgers constructed on the principle invented by Mr. Ball, a civil engineer in England, and he succeeded in floating a company in Christohurcb. to work the auriferous deposits on the West Coast beaches. The machine whioh is now being built under his supervision is to the order of the company, and will be out in New Zealand early in the year. Mr. Sydney Taiwhanga, M.H.E., informs us that he intends to proceed to Melbourne shortly, in order to be present at the centennial banquet there next month. During the past few days he has been interviewing the Minister of Lands with reference to doposits of quicksilver which are said to exist on a block of land in the Bay of Islands district recently acquired by the Government. Mr. Taiwhanga is anxious to be allowed to try and float a company in Melbourne to mine for quicksilver, and he has been endeavouring to obtain the nocessary permission from Government, as well as a sum of money to bear the exponses of his trip. Mr. Richardson does not think much of tho project, and it is very unlikely that Mr. Taiwhanga will succeed in getting round the hon. gentlemen. Mr Taiwhanga also states that when in Melbourne he will try and get an interview with Mr. Forwood, a solicitor well known in Wellington, who, he alleges left Auckland for the Victorian capital some months ago with a considerable sumo of his (Mr Taiwhanga's) money in his possession. Mr. Forwood, it will be recollected, was arrested in Melbourne by an Auokland detective, but as it was considered dangerous to move him he was allowed to remain there. Mr. Taiwhanga addresses a large gathering of natives at Whangarei next week, and then goes on to Melbonrne. An interlocutory injunction was granted in Chambers this morning, by Mr. Justice Richmond, restraining the Alfredton Road Board from proceeding with the proposed sale of education reserves for default in payment of rates. _ Mr. C. B. Morison moved for the injunction on behalf of Messrs. Chapman and FitzGerald, solicitors to the Wellington School Commissioners. The excursion which the Penguin is to make round the hartour this evening onght to prove a most enjoyable outing, and will no doubt bo largely patronised. The steamer leaves the Queen's Wharf at 7.30 o'clock, and will not return nntil 10. A band on board will perform at intervals, and fireworks will be let off in various parts of the harbour. A new skating rink was opened last night by Mr. D. Bowie in the spacious hall at the foot of Taranaki-street. The attendance of the skating public dnring the evening was good, and their comfort and that of novices in the art was attended to by a staff of obliging attendants. Mr. Gardner's brass band was in attendance, and played a number of musical selections during the evening, The contracts for the supply of coal to the Gear Meat Company, the Wellington Meat Preserving and Refrigerating Company, the Wellington Meat Export Company, and the Marine Department, for the ensuing twelve months, have been secured by the Brunner Coal Company. The supplies in question will probably aggregate about 8000 or 10,000 tons during the year. Mr. George Leitch's holiday bill at the Opera House on New Year's night will consist of the production of a dramatisation by Dion Boucicault of Charles Dickens' celebrated Christmas story, "The Cricket on the Hearth." All who appreciate Dickens' writings— and who does not?— will cherish tender memories of this charming work, and its presentation on the stage will be very welcome. The piece commences with a fanciful introductory scene, representing a vißit of the Cricket to Fairyland in quest of the assistance of Queen Mab, where it meets a number of imaginary characters. Mr. Leitch will appear as Caleb Plummer, the old toymaker, and Miss Alice Norton as Bertha, his blind daughter. Seats can be reserved at Holliday's. Another mysterious fire broke out on the premisesof Mr. Charlesßrown, who resides in King-street, about 3 o'clock yesterday afternoon. It will be remembered that a fire occurred in an outhouse on the same premises at about 9 o'clock in the morning. It appears that the second fire broke out in a front bedroom of the dwelling-house, facing King-street. Several small boys who were playing in the street in front of the house were the first to give the ahum to Mrs. Brown, who was at the back of the house. On rushing into ijie room, she found that the curtains were in a blaze, and the fire was rapidly spreading to the ceiling. She tore down the burning mass, and, by means of a few buckets of water, it was quickly extinguished. The origin is a complete mystery, as the oeoupants of the house are positive that there was no fire in the fireplace, nor had a light of any kind been in the room dnring the day. Captain Page, of the City Fire Brigade, examined the premises last evening, and his opinion 1 is that some incendiary has been at work. The house is owned by a brother of Mr. Brown's, and is insnred for £125, and the furniture for £20. The police are making enquiries into the matter, " Human Nature " was performed at the Opera House for the fourth consecutive time last evening, and was witnessed by a fairly large audience. The final production takes place this evening.

A Chinaman who was placed in the Terrace Goal about two yea h apo, havii'tr been sentenced to a term of impiisonmi" t for stabbing at Gisborne, recently displayed symptoms of mental aberration, and at the request of Mr. Garvey /the prisoner was examined yesterday by Drs. Fell and Cabill, and Messrs A. Young and J. Lachman, Justices, who satisfied themselves that the man was insane. A report to that effect was at once forwarded to the Colonial Secretary, and the unfortunate creature has been sent to the Asylum. Monday being a holiday, ont-patients will not be admitted to the Hospital. Mr. Edward Lewis preaches in the Christian Chftpel, Dixon-itreet, to-morrow evening, his subject oein(j '• Eternity." At St. Mark's Church to-morrow afternoon, at S o'clock, there will be a special seivice in connection with the enlargement oi the building. A memorial record of the history of the Church will be deposited in the foundation of the foot by the Bishop of AVellinffton. Services will be held as usual at the Webb-street Church to morrow, and a covenant service will be held oh Sunday evening. At the Iree Methodist Church, Court enay-pl&ee, the Her. c. Penney will conduct lervices to-morrow ¦morning and evening. Subjects— At 11 a.m., " My hope: where is it!" at 6 SO p.m., "The year past and its mercies recounted." Watch-night services will bo held to-night, at 11 o'clock. The KeT. W. M. Fell is announced to preach »t the Terrace Congregational Church to-morrow morning and evening. Mr. D. Hall, city missionary, offers a cordial welcome to seamen and othera to attend the Bethol in connection with the seamen's mission the flrpt Sunday in the New Year, at No. 0 room. Athemoum, at 11 a.m. The singing service will not take place this evening. The friends oi the Vivian-street Baptist Church y til be (jlad to learn that the pastor. Rev. H. H. Driver, is expected to resume his duties to-morrow. To-night, at 11 o'clock, a watch-night service will be held. The subject of the sermon ia the Catholic Apostolic Church, Webb-st. eet, to-morrow night, will be, " Circumcision considered in its relation to baptism." Mr. G. Parker, dentist, notifies that he has commenced business next door to the Girls' Friendly Society Lodge, Vivian-street. The Wellington Meat Export Company announce tlat they supply ice daily between 7 and 8 a.m.