TUESDAY. JANUARY 3, 1893. CHIEF JUSTICE HIGINBOTHAM.

Evening Post, Volume XLV, Issue 1, 3 January 1893, Page 2

TUESDAY. JANUARY 3, 1893. CHIEF JUSTICE HIGINBOTHAM.

Tho first naino in tho Australasian obituary of tho Now Year is that of a truly groat man. The Hon. George Higinbotham, Chief Justice of Victoria, has been oalled to a higher Court, and his loss will bo doplorod throughout tho colonios by all who honour worth und admiro uprightness, ability, and earnestness. George Higinbotham waß born in 1827, in Dublin, and graduated at Trinity College Ho was entered as a student of Lincoln's Inn in 1848, and in tho following year was aroportor on tho staff of the Morning Chronicle having as a colleague his aftertimea brilliant politioal contemporary Mr. B. C. Aspinall. Iv 1853 Mr. Hidnbotham waß oillad to tho Bar, and he almost immediately afterwards emigrated _ to Victoria, where he arrived early in 1854. Hero he practiced his profession, and wrote for tho Melbourne Herald. In 1856 he was appointed to succeed Mr. Edward Wilson as editor of the Argus, and this post he rotaiuod until 1859, when ho resumed praotice, and began to take an active part in politics. In 18C1 he entered tho Legislative Assembly as independent Liberal member for Brighton, but, being too independent, lost his Boat at a gonoraT election immediately aftor. He regained it within a year, and after opposing tho Duffy Land Bill, ho in 1863 joined the M'Cullooh Ministry as Attorney-General, whioh offico he held for five years, daring the memorable privilege dispute between tho two Houses over the Darling grant and tho " tacks " to the Appropriation Act. In 1868 he again sorved under Mr. M'Cullooh, but without a portfolio. In 1871 he lost his seat in Parliament, and devoted himself to his large practice at tho Bar until 1874, when he again entered Parliament, but he soon resigned, as he did not approve of the policy then pursued by the two rival leaders,- Mr. Graham Berry and Sir James M'Culloch. In 1880 ho was appointed a Puisne Judge, and in 1886 he succeeded Sir William Stawell as Chief Justice. Mr. Higinbothara several times refused knighthood, as he hold that all rewards for services in tho colony should emauato from the colony. During the absenoe of Governor Sir Henry Looh in 1888, the Chief Justice would in due course have become Acting-Governor, but the Colonial Office appointed Sir William Robinson to that office, as Mr. Hipinbotham had intimated that if he held it he would act on the principle whioh ho had always advocated politically, that the Colonial Offico had no right to interfere with or be consulted upon tho internal affairs of the colony. During the groat maritime strike recently ho openly expressed approval of the strikers' cause, and subscribed to tho strike funds. Mr. Higinbotham was a splendid public speaker, and all classes had unbounded confidence in his ability and integrity. His popular sobriquet was " Honest George." The colonies can ill afford to lose such men as Chief Justice Higinbotham, and fow men will bo more rogrett9d.

On our fourth page will be found muoh sporting and bowling intelligence, including the Caledonian Club's sports and the Wairarapa Racing Club's summer meeting. Thore is also a report of the inquest upon a baby, concluded from Saturday's issue. The Mahinapua brought down from Taranaki on Saturday 3200 packages of butter for transhipment by the Doric for London. This is tho largest quantity ever shipped from that district. Tho Public Trustee is engaged just at present in preparing tho course of piocedure in connection with tho Unclaimed Lands Act of last session. Mr. Warburton believes that many local .bodins will receive valuable endowments as a result of the passing of the Aot. N The takings at the gates at the Caledonian Society's sporta yesterday amounted to .£277, which is considerably in excess of the amount taken in any previous year. Wo regret to learn that, as one of the consequences of tho amalgamation of the Native and Justice Departments, the services of Captain Barclay, of the Native Office, havo been dispensed with, only a few days' notiae being given him. Captain Barclay is a man of varied acquirements, and has been one of the most valuable officers in the Government service during the time he has beep connected with it. For a considerable time ho sorved as Private Secretary to Mr. Ballance, and was noted for his courtesy and ability in that capaoity. It is singular that the colony is unable to find employment for such a man amongst its large number of ofiicers, fow of whom possess his qualifications. The holiday weather throughout tho colony was various. At Auckland rain fell all day, and stopped all sports. At Dunedin it was fine; at Christchurch there were slight showers in the morning, but tbe weather cleared by 10 a.m., and the attendance at the Lyttelton regatta was the largest yet rocorded. Nelson was treated to cold and unseasonable weather and rain, and Picton had a Scotch nust. A singular fact in connection with tho career of Mr. Grover Cleveland, the new President of tho United States, is that he has actually acted as a public executioner, and carried out the last sontenco of the law on two subjects. When Sheriff of Buffalp eomo years ago, he was himself obliged to hang two malefactors, being unable to obtain any substitute to porform the execution. He performed his t.errible duty calmly and effectively, but was niuob upset afterwards, and was serioußly ill for a ttm#. The Rangitikei Advocate strongly urges tho extension of the telephone from Hunterville to Ohingaiti. The Rev. H. Van Staveren dosires to acknowledge the sum of £25, received from Mrs. W. R. Williams, widow of the late Capt. Williams, in aid of the Benovolent Home. Well-dressed and apparently happy and contented people, and handsome, brilliantlylighted, and well-dressed shopwindows, were the especial characteristics of the principal thoroughfares of the city on New Year's Eve. The Btreets wero thronged for several hours, but although there was much merriment and some little quiet cbaff exchanged, there was a total absence of rowdyism of any kind. The police, iinder Sergt.-Major Ramsay, patrolled the city, but their sorvicoa were not in great request. When 12 o'clock struck there was a little demonstrivtion in the principal streets, but it was not long before the people quietly dispersed to their homes. The weather yesterday morning was threatening, but very little rain fell, and tbe pleasure of holiday-seekers was not marred to any extent. The trains on both lines were well patronised, as was also tho excursion to Picton by the Waihora and Penguin. Tho Queen of the South and the Mann ran between Wellington and Lowry Bay all day. and large numbers went across the harbour to that charming spot. A few minutes after C o'clock on Sunday evening smoko was assn issuing from a twostory house of seven rooms off Broughamstreet, occupied by Mr. Max Flojss, who represents the firm of Lango & Thoneman, merchants, Melbourne, in New Zealand. An alarm was rung, and the Brigade wero soon on the epofc. The building, which was owned by Mr. J. E. Miles, who also erected it a short time ago, feura^d so quickly that the flames had obtained a firm hold before the water could bo got ou, and mo fyiffiylp was only able to save the lower part of t<ze structure. Messrs. O. FitzGerald, Kounedy, Stuart,- W. Turner, and E. D. Hobon, reached the liopso at an early stage, and succeeded in saving a quantity of furniture. The upstairs furniture, including some wino and spirit samples, and some jewellory, was destroyed. The fire originated, so far as is known, in the servant's bedroom, up? stairs. The girl was out at the time, and Mr. and Mrs. Fleies were also absent, boing on their way to tho General Post Office when the alarm was given. They state that the kitchen fire was allowed to go out about 2 o'clock, and they cannot account for the origin of the outbreak. There waß an insurance of i 3150 in the North Queensland offico on the furniture, and tho building was insured for .£3OO in tho Liverpool, London, and Globe. The house stands immediately at the back of the building which wa9 partly burned down a few weeks ago through some tar becoming ignited. As a. horso attached to a trap was being driven through Jaekson-stroer, Petono, yestorday afternoon, the animal suddenly swerved, with tho result that one of the ocr!B» pant 3of the vehicle, Mrs. Price, of Petone, was thrown out. On being picked up, she was carried into the Victoria Hotel, and her injuries, which consisted of a nasty gash on the forehead and bruises about the face, necessitated the calling in of Dr. Whitehead, who dressed the wounds, after which the injareii lady, far wiam Mes. Orenhatn did all that was possible till tho doctor arrived, was conveyed to her home. A narrow escape from drowning was experienced on Saturday aftornoon by two youths named Henry Jessnp and J. D. Avevy. As thoy were returning from Day's Bay in on open sailing boat, a squall came down, and tho ljttle craft capsized and sank near one of the bulko. Both the occupants were able to switn, and eaoh gtrnek out for the hulk, but before they had got very far they were picked up by a boat whiclj happened to be in the vicinity. The boat which capsized was recently built by Mossrs. H. H. Jessup and J. D. Avory, She is still at the bottom of the harbour. The annual picnic in connection with t)io Wesley Church Sunday-school, Tarauakistreot, was held yesterday at Belmont, in the grounds belonging to Mr. P. Spoody. Upwards of 500 children with their toacbfiis, »nd a large number of adults f wore pre3ont. Sports, <fee, woro engaged m, and everything done to give tho scholars an enjoyable day. The whole affair was a great success. Tho Hospital authorities desire us to note that from the list of contributors to the Hospital patients' Christmas fund published by us on Thursday evening last, the following namos were omitted:— Mr. T. Dwan, weekly papers ; Mr. Robert Martin, pictures and mouldings; and Mr. G. W. Dutton, books, pictures, and Christmas cards,

Tho Customs rovonue collected in tho colony lust mouth amounted to .£143,337 Is 4d as against J2127 ,977 in tho previous month. Tho principal contributions wore as follows : — Dnnedin, .£33,493 18s lOd; Wellington, £30,550 17s lid ; Lvttolton and Christchurch, .£29,524 (53 5d ; Auckland, J222.965 11b lOd. During the same period the amount of Beer Duty collected was £7190 9s 4d as againßtJ2ss9l in the previous month. Auckland contributed J21837 5s lOd, Diinodin, .£1492 15s 6d ; Christchurch, J812G9 7s ; Wollington, .£BO7 5s lid. Tho railway traffic yesterday was fairly largo. On tho Government lino about 400 passengors went to tho Wairarapa, 1000 to tho Lower Hutt, and 800 to Bolmont. Most of tho passongers on tho Manawatu lino wont to Plimnierton and Utaki, 2500 boing about the number carried to' these places. It is estimated that tho expense's of eaoh Party in the late Presidential elootion in tho States amounted to at least .£1,001,000 from iti general political fund. In addition to this thero wore immense contributions from local funds. The printing bill of eaoh side is sot down at .£125,000, and postagos at •£2.0,000. That the ohoap excursions to Pio.ton aro bocoming very popular is ci idonced by the fact that about 1500 people went across from Wellington yesterday by the Waihora and the Penguin. The original intention was to sendthe Waihora only, but so many persons applied for tickets on tho wharf yesterday morning that the Penguin was also laid on, and both wera filled— the former taking about 1000, and the latter. somewhere about 500. Tho Waihora loft just half an hour bofore tbe Ponguin, but the latter overtook and passed her, and made fast to the Pioton wharf 20 minutes before the bigger boat. Tho weather wa3 cool throughout, and tho water was smooth, vory fow people being seasick. Tho rogutta at Picton proved an attraction to many of the excursionists, but a large number wont up to Blenheim by train and spont an hour in that thriving town. On the roturn journey tho railway engine broke down, but repairs wero effected in half an hour, and the passengers reached Picton shortly after 5. Tho Penguin left first for Wellington, and made an oxcellont run across, getting in before 10, whilst tho Waihora did not reach Wollington until 10.45. Minifio's Band was on tho Waihora, and played a number of lively airs daring the excursion. The whole of tho arrangements were thoroughly satisfactory. Captains Anderson (Waihora) and Bernech (Ponguin) and their officers were most attentive to the passengers, -whilst tho stewards and clerical staff also did their utmost to promote tho pleasure and comfort of all. The excursion was a thorough success, and will long bo recollected with pleasurable feelings by all who took part in it. Visitors to the Wairarapa Racing Club's mooting on the Tauherouikau Racecourse yesterday, were vory pleased with tho improvoments effected to the course since last season. The grandstand has boon renovated, and is now capable of seating 500 persons, while a now stand has been built for the oonvenionoe of tho outside public, and also one for the stewards. The lawn and saddling paddock have been extended, and a portion of the ground at tho baok of the grandstand has been formed into a members' paddock. The racing track has also received attention at the bands of tho stewards, and was in oapital order. Tho arrangements made by tho secretary (Mr. W. Book) and his brother officers for the mooting, workod admirably, and not a single hitch occurred to mar the enjoyment of their patrons. Mr. Thomas Dixon, proprietor of the yacht slip near the Destructor, met with an accident yesterday which will prevent bis working for some little time. Early in the day bo wa3 engaged in hauling up the Mima, in order that she might receive a thorough overhaul for the regatta, when the cradle went off the rails. He and two assistants then set to work to replace it, and while they were thus engaged the yacht fell over on her side, jamming his right hand severely. The hand was hold as in a vice, and could not bo releasod until the yacht had been levered up. The Mima's keel was somewhat damaged. This is tbe socond mishap that has befallen hoc in less than a week. A few dayß ago her jib carried away and she ran into tho wind , colliding with the ship Auckland lying in the stream. The yacht's bowsprit broke in two, the gaff snapped, the mainsail was torn, and her topsides were damaged. After the collision a staysail was set and she Bailed before the wind into Evans Bay, where she ran aground. Altogether she has had a bad time lately. Ton persons arrested tor drnnKenness on Saturday night and Sunday were brought up before Mr. C. T. Richardson, J.P., yesterday, but as it was holiday time they were discharged with a caution. Charles Bristol was fined Is for damaging the handle of a door in tho Pier Hotel, and ordered to pay 5s for repairs. A boy named Ernest Jackson was brought up on a charge of having stolen the sums of £5 and £2 from Christopher Smith, draper, on the 28th and 31st December. He was remanded until this morning. When he came up to-day SergeantMajor Ramsay explained that tho boy had been in the service of Mr. Smith. Mr. Smith Rtatod that £5 10s had been recovered. Hiß Worship (Mr. Robinson, R.M.) remanded the accused tor a week in order that a report might be obtained from thoProbation Offioer. Bail was allowed, the father ontering into a recognizance for his son's reappearance. Tho Potone Fire Brigade, assisted by the Gear Company's Brigade, celebrated tho closing of the old year with a torchlight procession. Tho Brigade, headed by the Petone Brass Band, started from tho enginehouse at 10 o'clock, and paraded the principal streets of the township, followed by a large number of spectators. Each Brigade had a Darktown contingent, and their antics caused considerable amusement. The engine and hose-reel 'had been gaily decorated, and they prosentcd a very attractive appearance. Thero was a fine display of coloured fire during tho procession, the materials for which were supplied by Mr. Woods, chemist, and tho making-up was done by Mr. Piper. After tho parade the Brigade returned to the enginehoq.se, where a supper was provided for the firemen and the members of the Band. Several toasts were proposed, and the proceedings terminated shortly before midnight. Last night the Brigade held a social at the Drillshed, which was largely attended. The hall was tastefully decorated with bunting, Chinese lanterns, &p. During the intervals between tho dances a number of songs were contributed, each receiving a good reception. The music was supplied by Miss Finch and Messrs, Finch (2), while Messrs. L. Parrant and J. Ibell officiated as Masters of the Ceremonies. The " Social " Committeo of the Cooperative 'Bus Employed met at the stables on Saturday, snd presented their President (Mr. C. Dlinbar) with an illuminated address as a token of appreciation of his services in connection with the late gathering. The address, which is tho work of Mr. A. Cassio, one of the employes, is very tastefully written in old English letters, and is beautifully illuminated. Mr. Cassie has been freely congratulated on his artistic work. Tenders for the band for the United Friendly Sooietiea' Demonstration willolose on the 9th January. Tho Seoretary (Mr. Capper) is now canvassing the town for prizes, and meeting with gratifying bucoobs. Gospel services will be held in Thomas Rooms this evening by Dr. Burton.

A very choice selection of the smartest and daintiest millinery in all the most favourite fashions is now on view at Te Aro House. Our ladies' and young ladies' trimmed hats are perfect " Creations " of tho most exquisite taste, and the prices are such as will be universally suitable, ranging principally from 5s 6d to 25s each, at Te Aro House. During the present Christmas week, in our millinery showroom, every day will bo a show day, and a change every day of trimmed and untrimmed hats, bonnets, flowers, feathei-B, ard n. variety of lovely millinery requisites, at To Aro Honse. For holiday wear wo would invite special attention to some very effectively trimmed picnic hats, 5s 6d each, at Te Aro Houso. For elderly ladies we have soruo very comfortable shapes in bonnets, and some very pretty laco caps, suitable for the season, at Te Aro House. An early visit to our millinery showroom would be of the greatest advantage to all purchasers, including as it does not only a choico of the best millinery in the city, but also an attractive Christmas present, at Te Aro Htfuso. — Advt. Christmas and New Yea: presents. Tbe largest aad best-assortod stock of Silver and Electro-plated goods in the oity is boing dinplayed by Wilkins & Field, Manners- street. During the present month they are allowing a vory liberal discount off all purchases of Silver and Fancy Goods. Their promises are thrown open for inspection, and visitors aro invited to call and see their magnifioout stock, whether desirous of purchasing anything or not. — Advt. At the recent convention of the Women's League it was reported that an invention which would savo much time and labour had been brought under their notice. In acknowledging the inventor's skill, it was resolved to recommend the Speedwell Washer for universal ÜBe, as with it tho drudgery of washing day entirely disappears, nnd the time occupied is so reduced that all who use them once will bo doeply gratified. — Advt. 7