TOWN & COUNTRY.

Lyttelton Times, Volume LXXV, Issue 9431, 4 June 1891, Page 4

TOWN & COUNTRY.

Thb lonic. — A Wellington telegram received last night says:—Some anxiety has been felt here during the last few days for the safety of the steamer lonic, which was due at Rio last week ew. route for London.. The local agents cabled yesterday to ascertain if anything had been heard of her or the cargo steamer Maori, which had left New Zealand a few daye before her. A reply came this afternoon, that the lonic had left Rio for London on May 26, and that the Maori followed two days afterwards. Wobbying Shebp. —Some sheep in paddocks belonging to Mr Gardner, of Dallington, were much worried during Tuesday night by a couple of dogs, said to be Newfoundlands. On the night in question three of Mr Gardner's sheep were killed, and others injured. . . MiNisTßßiAi. —The Hon J. M'Kenzie, Minister for Lands, and the lion R. J, Seddon, Minister for Public Works and Defence, arrived from the south by the express last night, and proceeded to the Commercial Hotel. Mr Seddon will inspect the fortifications at Lyttelton this morning, The Ministers will leave for Wellington ibis-afternoon.

Vital Stattbtkjs.— The vital statistics for the Temaka district for the month of May are aa follow:—Births 10, death 1, marriages 2. No. 5 Shed. —The Lyttelton Harbour Board has prepared a petition to Parliament, asking for redress in the matter of the taking of No, 6 shed at Lyttelton by the Bailway Commissioners.- A special meeting of the Board will be held shortly to consider the petition. A Would-be Settles. —Mr Murphy, Secretary to the Canterbury A. and P. Association, has received a letter from Bombay from a gentleman who wishes to obtain particulars as to settling in this Colony, and is anxious to get some good land, amid good scenery and with plenty of water.

Sdpbbme Coubt.— His Honor Mr Justice Denniston sat in Banco yesterday, gave judgment for the appellant in the appeal case of the Waitaki Hospital and Charitable Aid Board v. the South Canterbury Hospital and Charitable Aid Board, and heard argument in the case of Parish v. Parish and another, in which judgment was reserved.

Labobny at Football Matches.— During the progress of two football matobes played at Sydenham on Saturday, the clothes of the two visiting teams were robbed of money and jewellery to the value of J 627 odd, by some one who obtained access to the dressing rooms. The matter has been placed in the hands of the police, and it is to be hoped thal the guilty person will be brought to account. Licensing Elections. Our correspondent writes that the Prohibition party which was defeated at the recent licensing election at Temuka, has sent a statement of matters connected therewith to Sic E. Stout, in order that he may give his opinion whether a case exists strong enough to warrant the election being challenged in the Courts.-—lt is rumoured that an effort will be made to unseat two, if not three, of the members of the latelyelected Timaru Licensing Committee. Feiendbhip Guild.— The first regular meeting of the Friendship Guild, established in connection with the Bangiora Presbyterian Church, was held on Tuesday, when the members and visitors, to the number of about a hundred, were entertained for over an hour by Mr G. B. Hart, of Christchurch, with reminiscences of early Canterbury. On the motion of Mr T. Keir, the meeting passed a cordial vote of thanks to Mr Hart for the pleasure he had afforded. The Bev P. B. Monro, President of the Guild, occupied the chair. Bangitata Boad Boabd.— The usual meeting of this Board was held on Monday; present—Messrs Chi&nall, Elmslie, Goodwin and Harper. Mr Harper was elected Chairman. It was resolved—“ That the Minister for Lands be requested to pay to the Boad Board the accrued * thirds' now due, for the purpose of assisting perpetual lease settlers to obtain a supply of water immediately, 7 ’ After some routine business had been done and the usual paysheet passed for payment, the meeting terminated, I.O.Q.T;—The most successful entertainment ever held by the Dauntless Lodge took place on Tuesday evening, the Blue Bibbou Hall being crowded to the doors; Bro Allpress in the choir. The sailors of H.M.S. Oimujoatook a prominent part, and evoked hearty bursts of laughter by their comic songs and jokes. A number of amateurs took part, and all acquitted themselves admirably. During the evening suitable refreshments were handed round, the tea being kindly given by Messrs Ninian Hyslop and Co. The National Anthem concluded a most enjoyable evening. It was announced that a similar social would take place in about a month's time.

Ohbibtohuboh Hounds. —On Tuesday last these hounds met at Irwell, and had a very fair day's sport. A hare was soon found on Mr Jackson’s property, and was killed after a good hunting run of some twenty minutes. Another hare was viewed away almost at once, and proved a real stayer, as she led the hounds quite four miles at racing pace before she succumbed. Afterwards a move was made to Meadow Bank, but the hares had all such a strong proclivity for running on to a forbidden estate, that very little sport has to be recorded. Mr Jackeon did everything in his power to show sport, and Mr and Mrs Woodman, as usual, hospitably entertained the field.

Protestant Alliance. The Hoyal Standard Lodge, No. 61, held its usual fortnightly meeting in the United Free Methodist schoolroom, Seiwyn street, Addington, on Monday. The Worshipful Master Bro A. Lusty presided, and there was a good attendance. One candidate was proposed for membership, and a clearance was granted to a brother going to the North Island. Various accounts were passed for payment. It was arranged that the presentation of a framed certificate of membership to a brother should take place on the night of the installation of the officers. The Lodge then went into harmony, when Bros Thomas-and p&ik gave songs and recitations. \ Ashley School Committee.-— The usual monthly meeting was held on Monday evening; present—Mr J. Ellwood (Chairman), and Messrs J. Bison, J. Robertson, D. Collie, D. Dick, C. Leach and G. Bowron. The master’s report showed that there were ninety-five names on the roll, and that the attendance had been very unsatisfactory during the past month. Tenders were opened, and those of Mrs Pound and Mr Burt accepted, the former for cleaning, &c., and the latter for supplying coal and firewood. Br Anderson's report on his recent inspection visit was read and considered. It stated that the distribution of the classes was the proper one $ the time-tables were suitably constructed, and made the necessary provisions j the master did his work well, following approved methods; the mistress took a kindly interest In the progress of the pupils under her charge, and was active in the discharge of her duties. The order, manners and discipline were all satisfactory. Ancient Obdeb op Foresters. —The Court Star of Canterbury held the halfyearly summoned meeting for the nomination of Court and medical officers on Moa- : day evening. In the absence of the C.E., P.C.B. Bro Crooks was voted to the chair. The Woodwards’ report showed there were eleven members at present on the funds. The Secretary reported the death of Bro W. Lockwood, of Lesston, and Bro Trealler, of Court Pride of Oamarn, was admitted as a clearance member. A letter was read from' the Secretary to the Hospital Board, in reply to one sent from the Court, in reference to visiting any members who might be in the Hospital. The Secretary called the roll at 8 p.m., when the nomination of Court and medical officers far the ensuing term was taken. A letter was read from the 0.E., apologising for hia absence. Correspondence was read from the Bistriot Secretary, and was referred to the Management Committee for consideration. After passing the sick pay, the Court was closed in due form. Receipts of the evening, 17s. An Important Decision. —A decision of very great importance to Hospital and Charitable Aid Boards was given yesterday by his Honor Mr Justice Dennlston, when he allowed the appeal of the Waitaki Hospital and Charitable Aid Board against a decision of the Resident Magistrate at Timaru in an action brought against that body by the South Canterbury Hospital and Charitable Aid Board to recover the cost of relief to a man and his family who had come to Timaru from Oamaru on Oct. 26, 1889, and received relief on April 11, 1890, less than six months after leaving the "Waitaki Board s district. His Honor held that Clause 14 of the “ Hospital and Charitable Institutions Act,” on the interpretation of which »the case turned, meant that one district can recover from another the cost of relief to persons entering it from the latter, provided that such persons resided m the latter for six months continuously immediately before entering the institution from which they received relief. The Resident Magistrate held that the ooet could be recovered if such persons had lived in the district from which they came for the six months next previous to entering—not the institution which relieved them—but the district in which it is situated. Fruit Trees in great variety,? at Naira and SonflVLinoo&i|roii4. X 837

Supplement.— Enclosed with thla morning's issue is a supplement circular from Mr F. Gabites, announcing a special sale of manufacturer’s surplus stock, commencing to-day. Band of Hope. —The monthly meeting of Crescent road Wesleyan Band of Hope was held on Friday evening last. There was a large attendance. Songs, recitations, dialogues, &c., were given by the children, also a very amusing and interesting address by Mr E. H. Ferguson, of Belfast.

The Union Fibe and Marine Insurance Company.— Mr W. F. Wheeler has been appointed to the Managership of the Union Insurance Company in Wellington. The appointment is a most popular one, as Mr Wheeler has been well and favourably known as Manager of the Wellington branch of the Union Steamship Company for the past eight years. Pioneer Bicycle Club.— A Committee meeting of this Club was held on Monday evening. There was a full attendance. The date of the annual Cinderella was arranged. The Secretary was instructed to convey to Mr Harry Fleming the Committee’s condolence on the death of his father. Several accounts were passed for payment, and general routine business was also transacted.

Eugby Union.—At a special meeting of the Committee of the Bngby Union held last evening, it was decided to aooept the terms offered by the Lancaster Fade Company for the use of the ground for senior championship matches. On and after Saturday next all senior championship matches will be played at Lancaster Park, with the exception of the matches that the Sydenham Club are engaged in, which will be played on the Show grounds* Sydenham. By this arrangement two matches will be played each Saturday at Lancaster Park.

Pbesentation.— A very pleasant gathering was held at the Clarendon on Tuesday evening, when the staff of Messrs P. Hay-, man and Co. met to present to the late manager, Mr P. F. Kohlenberg (who has left the firm to engage in a new undertaking in Dunedin) with a memento of their appreciation. The presentation consisted of an illuminated address, surrounded by the photographs, in cabinet size, of the employees, the whole enclosed in a handsome gUt Drome. The photographs were taken by Mr Manning, and the illumination was the work of Mr Stow. After the recipient had returned thanks for the gift, asocial evening was spent. Oust. —The ordinary meeting of the Oust School Committee took place on Monday evening, the Bev D. Bodges presiding. The average attendance at the school was reported to be 76. The Bev H. Mathias introduced the question of giving religions instruction in the school. X motion to the effect that the matter bo shelved for three months was negatived, and the meeting arranged to consider tho subject next month. A request from the master to have power toremove a stable ha had erected was left in abeyance. Mr Head was instructed to wait upon th« caretaker with a view to his duties being rearranged. The “ Picturesque ■ Atlas.” —At Dunedin yesterday, the cases in connection with the “ Picturesque Atlas,” which were adjourned to permit of getting a deed of assignment from Sydney, were resumed, when judgment was given to favour of Bowerman, the plaintiff. Leave to appeal was given. The point raised by Mr Joel was that the deed of assignment was dated August 81,1886, and then was no evidence of any contract till August, 1887, consequently the contract could not be assigned by the deed produced. The power of attorney only referred to what was assigned, and plaintiffs, therefore, had shown no authority to sue. Habboub Boabd.— At an ordinary meeting of the Harbour Board, yesterday, the principal business was the discussion on a motion by Captain M'Clabchie—“ Now that the screw-pile wharf is to be repaired and remodelled, the present time is opportune to widen the jetty sufficiently for placing thereon two extra lines of rails, to allow of increased accommodation to the steamers loading and discharging at the said wharf. Knowing that the said work is requisite, I move that the Board consents to its being carried oat at a cost not exceeding .£3300.” The Board decided to at once begin the re-decking of the screw-pile jetty, making provision for widening it in the future, if required. Theatre Eoyal.— Abdool Ahuumd, the Indian fakir and juggler who is to appear before the public of Christchurch at tha Theatre Eoyal this evening, bears tha reputation of being a conjurer of considerable powers. He played to very successful business in Australia and the southern portion of this Colony, and at Sydney give a special performance at Government ouse. Many of his feats will be new to the people of Christchurch, particularly the mango trick, in which a mango or other plant is mysteriously grown before the audience, who may not only examine tiic plant so grown, but take it away with them. The fakir's cup and ball juggling and swallowing feat are said to be extraordinary. He also claims a knowledge of snake charming, but as there are no snakes here for him to charm, he purposes to exercise his powers on suitable animals if snob can begot: kangaroos and oppoasums are said to be the best fitted for the purpose. As some of his tricks are best appreciated when closely watched, ha wishes all in the audience to preserve strict order and attention. Meetings of Ratepayers.— Tha annual meeting of ratepayers of the Lincoln district, was held on Monday. The Chairman of the Boad Board (Mr J. W. Overton) occupied the chair. The report showed to detail the income and expenditure for tha twelve months ending March 31. Tha receipts, including balance in hand, were £1229 19a, and the expenditure £lOl7 7a 7d, leaving a balance to credit of £212 11s fid. The Chairman moved the adoption of the report. The motion was seconded by Mr Prebble, and carried. The usual votes of thanks brought the meeting to a close.— The adjourned annual meeting of rate- . payers in the Templeton district was held - at the Boad Board office, Taldhnrst* on Monday. Three ratepayers other than tha members of tire Board were present, and Mr G. F. Carpenter occupied the chafeThe balance-sheet showed the income to have been £Bl3 8s fid, which, with tb# balance in hand on March 31, 1890, of £786 IBs 9d, made a total of £I6OO 2s 3dThe expenditure bad been £9OO 5s 9d, thus leaving a credit balance of £699 16s fid, which was apportioned as follows -.—No. I Ward 9s 7d, No. 2 Ward £26 Is lid. No. S Ward £54 fia fid. No. 4 Ward £456 17l 9d, No. 5 Ward £162 Is 9d. Votes of thanks were passed to the Surveyor ahd to the members of the Board. Toole at Home. —On Thursday evening, April 28, Mr Toole, having returned from Ms tour in Australia and New Zealand* reappeared at his own theatre and received a hearty welcome. The play was Tit Upper Crust, by tha late Mr H. J. Byron, the chief part in which, it will be remembered, is that of Bamaby Doublechick, the self-made soap boiler. Mr Toole's many friends were gratified to sea that he was in excellent health and spirito At the conclusion of the performance ha came forward to say a few words. His e*Eeriencea at the Antipodes, he remarked, ad been of the most gratifying character. The hospitality extended to himself and his company had been overwhelming, while the eoenery was even more charming than that to be seen on his stage. He strongly advised everybody to go to Australia and New Zealand, provided people enough remained behind to fill hie theatre every night. These sallies were received with laughter, whereupon. Mr Toole became anecdotal. In New Zealand he visited many of the Maoris, and on one occasion had an interview with a Maori Princess. Not quite understanding the Maori language, ho thought the ben thing was to sing a verse of an English ballad, “Tell me, Maori, howto woo thee.” She did not tell him, and he did not woe her. He caught alligators on the Blue Mountains, crocodiles under the Blue Mountains, snakes on one side of the Bln* Mountains, and bears on tho other side of tho Blue Mountains, and these curiosities could be visited free of charge at the bo* office. Customers after using Ninian Hyslop and Co.'a “ Imperial ” Teas will have no other. SBS6

’ttilamrrimi r . IaTBRABY INSTITUTE.—The jnjhltMy meeting of the Managing Oomtattee of the Eangiora Literacy Institute «6f tild 6b Thesday,Mr G. Buckham in the r stair. Matters to ha introduced at the i Boanai meeting of snbacribers next week ■ ■ tare disonesed, and Mr E. E. Good was appointod to audit the accounts. Patwtt.tau Nam®.— The following is faom the Dunedin Star ln consequence of the success, from a musical point of sii#,of Mr Arthur Clampett’s entertainipfwt on Saturday evening last, several of eat leading vocalists and instrumentalists bate sorted to assist him in his second •Bterhuameht, which is announced for Friday evening next, in the City Hall. Worth Island Bullocks. —A consign hunt, of twenty-eight head of bullocks fnn PRlmerston North, which arrived in Canterbury on Friday last, was sold waiter day at .the Addington market by Ifeeers H. Matson and Co. They were in Beta* aondition, though slightly the worse lei the voyage, and were sold at from J 8 3e 6d to £8 15s each, being estimated to average; when killed, nine hundred pounds apiece. OiifßfitowßHi?.—The usual fortnightly nesting yf the Loyal Addington Lodge, LQ.O.F.. M.U., was held on Monday eveniafirwhta there was a large attendance, and Bißtat tiliTiesi in i mint irnrn visiting brethren Ffepanaii Phillipstovnii Volunteer GMf olClbfistehtiroh, andEsngiora Lodged Ttadtstrtet officers also attended. Doting the evening, four candidates were initiated late- the Cider. At the close of the Lodge xelMehmehts were provided, and a very plMaaat evening was brought to a close by riaghlg.ftAidd 1 L»hg Syne.” Awornto - - Bridge Accident; The Qiinaru -Mail reportsA traction engine owned by Messrs Eoss and Campbell, and driven by j. Howe, fell through the Waihao Bridge, hear the Forks Hotel, on Satarday last. An investigation of the leidgAaßews that the main planks were vety Gotten, and it is a wonder they did net £6 before.* The hind part of the engine ia about two feet below the level of fh»- bridge, and the front part a few feet n p fit the air. *As the engine is at present, tnlflo is completely stopped. Efforts are behic made to get the engine out. Mb Wbitxbsap’s Lecture.— There was a good attendance at the Durham street otateh liit-Bight, bn the occasion of Mr W; H. Wbltehead • giving hls r farewell pjflteee.'Tht chair was occupied by the Eev L. M. Wtt, and the subject of the evehdiscourse was " Music for the Church, SkS School and' the Home.” Mesdames SearcU and" Bowe, Mr Prndhde and others assisted in dTntorio selections which were glvenj- The lecturer was accorded a hearty vote of thanks at the close of the meeting. A iiw n —’ compliment was paid to the Chairman. „ T&rut ' Abstinence Society. The OhrUtchorch Total Abstinence Society riid ite* second quarter last Friday in Bine Eibbon Hall, when an excellent programme was provided. The Eev W. S. Potter occupied the chair. Addresses were gmnhy Mz Parkas and Mrs Lodge. Mr JTmM (aon of . the lecturer) presided at the tad tao sang. Mr Cliff contributed B violin solo, which was loudly encored. Btimorons readings, temperance recitations. Ab. followed. It was announced tbbt Mr Bennetts had been re-elected Mr T. G. Dyson being elected Secretary.* Several' persons signed the pledge and donned the blue. PtaAjmr Mutual Improvement Club.— Ita - weekly meeting of the Fapanui Mutual Improvement and Recreation Club wta held ob Monday evening, the Eev D. J. Murray presiding. A " mock election " footplace. Hr E. J. Clark and Mr X. jota were dnly nominated as candidates feo repreeent the district of Fapanui. After the candidates bad expressed their views, wait very gbbd questions were put to and u«tatad by them. There were also some veiy funny which caused roars s{laughter. A poll was taken, which tamlted ia the election of Mr Jones by a Barrow* majority. The usual thanks to fchi officials tad returning officer brought a eta# enjoyable evening to a close. » ni InteTHSß.—Bain set in yesterday Boning Bad continued during the whole I of tee day and night. At Timarn rain commenced to fall yesterday at noon, and aoattened all day, with every appearance of KM* King » spell of wet weather. The rtaltae greatly wanted, and will do a great deal of good, allowing agricnlturiste to get SB With their farming operations. Our oorteepondent says that for the past few ■ giy« tea weather in the Geraldine district has boon exebptionally wintry, and the taQ, Isaden clouds betokened either a fall of snow dr heavy rain, but up to the present tfagi neither has taken place, except a basvy shower on Sunday night. A nice, steady rate set in at Ashburton about noon Times.” Oar weekly Bootabterary has again succeeded in supplying its numerous readers with a highly mterestißg budget of original and selected articles. 'An account of the success of Mr H. m. Watson's new play will gratify the many friends of the yonng Colonial dramatist, and a sketch of the origin and —ogress of the Chilian War cornea at an jmrttnne moment. Particulars of Sir Thomas Elder’s Exploring Expedition will tatmet a wide circle of readers, and ladies shenld set the papers headed A Woman’s Waste, tee Art of Gracefully Growing Old, , and Rational Dress. The Sporting Editor 4sab with a Bookmaker’s Lot, Sportsmen Bad Sportsmen, A Serious Omission, tad alltee current news of the day j while Um agricultural pages contains notes -on Irrigation, Sheep and Pasture, the Value ef Manures, Butter for India, and a variety of other important subjects. The Editorial, Literary and News columns are

M well filledas ever. CANTBBB'PRT FBTIIT-QsOWBRr Absocianojr.—A meeting of this Association, held Bt Its offices, ■ Hereford street, yesterday moinZi was' well attended. The chair wm occupied by Mr F. Wilding, President of the Association. A donation of -So from Mr 0- G- Tripp, for the purchase of books ob fruitgrowing, was ordered to be acknowledged with thanks. A discussion areae on the desirableness of doing somethin* to prevent the introduction of the ■ codlfr woth into Canterbury. .Mr Robert Chudleigh, who had recently returned from the North Island, gave an account of the nvaeec of the moth in the northern pro* wiocM of Now Zealand. Ou the motion of Mr Siaaoa a Sub-Committee, consisting of y w . Wilding, M. Murphy and the wmn was formed to draw up a petition to Qovernment, urging it to. take unmediate action to prevent the introduction ui screed of 'the moth into uninfected , districts* It was further decided to i-u struct the Committee to ask the Colonial Secretary to obtain papers from Melbourse and Tasmania ou the subject or the •Pile .trade With England. T»* Eclipse of the Moon, -w The ecHpee e£ the moon on the morning of May SS was seen at Melbourne —as ' a total eiiUris'if great advantage. The watchers •h,the. Observatory, Messrs-Wallace and Xindsay, thus describe what, they saw t Filet* at about twenty minutes past one, was seen: the slight and impereedtible diminution of the moon's light, as JlNrom • passing fiWi of smoke or thin ddhd. caused by the moon passing into the cater (penmnbral) or partial shadow of ,he earth; then as the moon reached the earth's real shadow (umbra) at 2hr 21min its edge /appeared completely obscured ; but so soon as a considerable part or its surface was covered by the real shadow tbe lunar features became visible through the ruddy gloom now nearly covering the Aii* As soon as total eclipse occurred the i ajoeu . appeared as a dull red-brown or eoppsr-colonred disc with its prominent features distinctly visible. The times at which the edge of the shadow in its progress touched the several most prominent - lunar mountains were carefully noted, both St the passing on and, passing off of fhc shadow, simply with the view of approximately testing the accuracy of the predicted times. During totality Mr spectroscopically examined the ’ fight at the lines of junction of penumbra, '■ umbra and moonlight, and obtained the j sane results as on ■ former occasions, indicating simply refleitul solar light modified :■ by penumbral shadow, and almost f obliterated by that of the umbra. Pure, fragrant and exhilarating," Arab , and "Shah " brand Tea, 2*aad 2s 4d- per ft, ' '

Bekjuettks.— A very interesting report by Mr Cosmo Newbery, the Victorian expert, on the utilisation of waste coal, appears elsewhere in this issue. Christ’s College Grammar School. — Mr Alexander Wilson, M.A., of Dunedin, who was appointed to report on the working of Christ’s College, has sent in an exhaustive statement to the Bight Eev the Warden. In the course of his report—which will be found elsewhere in this issue —Mr Wilson refers to the_ strictures of the Lyttelton Times upon the institution. Prevention op Cruelty.— A now feature ■ appears in the current number of the Canterbury Timee. A column of the popular weekly is devoted to the interests of the Kind-hearted Brigade, an organisation of young people who have undertaken to use their influence in forwarding the objects of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. . Defence of Lyttelton, Yesterday forenoon Colonel Hume, Acting Under Secretary for Defence, accompanied by Mr Arthur Bell (Defence Engineer), Major Douglas (officer in charge of the permanent force at Port), and Mr W. Wilson (Foreman of Works) paid a visit of inspection to the forts of Lyttelton. They went to Fort Jervois, Erskine Point, and the batteries of the north shore of the harbour. . . . Bad Beading.— The inquiry into the Wreck of the ship Craigbnrn, a contemporary remarks, is proceeding slowly. The captain and chief officer (who was drowned) come out of it badly. They were both in liquor. The tow-line was not fastened properly through the .default of the chief officer, which was the initial mistake; and the captain, when the danger was greatest, went off to his cabin and slept. It is had reading. Potatoes for ENGLAND.—The steamer Tainui, which left Lyttelton on Saturday last for London, took away from this port six hundred and fifty sacks of potatoes for the English market. This is the first large shipment of potatoes to England. It is understood that it is being made a test shipment. If it turns out profitable—and if the potatoes are properly sorted, there seems no reason why it should not a continuous supply will be sent by many of the direct liners. TVT.-nA-wF Patey at Auckland.— A telegram says:—Madame Patey concluded her remarkably successful season here to another crowded house. No previous concert party has given seven consecutive concerts with such results. Mr Patey is sufficiently recovered from his accident to take his full part in the programme, and his operatic buffo songs have been one of the features of the last two concerts, Madame is in splendid voice. She finished the season with a never-to-be-forgotten rendering of " Home, Sweet Home. ’ New Steamer fob Lyttelton. —Messrs Anderson made a start at their yard in' Lyttelton, yesterday, with the new steam launch intended for the excursion service in Lytteltoh harbour. The vessel will be 83ft long, lift beam,- and have a depth of hold of 7ft, with accommodation for between 250 and 300 passengers. She will be built of quarter-inch steel plates, and will be provided with compound engines which will also be built by Messrs Anderson, and will be sufficiently powerful to. drive the vessel at a speed of 14* knots par hour. Lbbston School Committee. The ordinary meeting of the Committee was held oa Tuesday evenings present—Mr W. D. Lawrence (Chairman), Messrs John Barnett, W. G. Lunn, E. T. Jeffrey, E. S. Cook, W. Johnston and Dr Gossett. The master asked that in the event of a pupil teacher not being appointed at once, other assistance he given to the school. The attendance was shown to he—Number on roll, 204; average attendance, 148*6. It was decided to carry out certain repairs applied for by the master. It was resolved that i\fiaa Webster should be recommended to the Board as pupil-teacher. Stock Inspection.— The Chief Inspector of Stock (Mr J. D. Eitchie) who was in Dunedin on Tuesday, informs the Otago Daily Times that he has _ completed the arrangements for the appointment of subagents throughout Otago and Southland. These sub-agents will bo about twentyfive in number, and will be subordinate to the inspectors in the various districts. Mr J. Douglas, who has for some years been Chief Inspector for Otago, left for Timaru yesterday to take over his duties in hia new sphere of action. Mr Ritchie was to visit the south this week, returning to Dunedin about Saturday. Catholic Literary Society.— There was a very fair attendance at this Society s meeting on Tuesday evening. Mr J. W. Kennedy (Vice-President) occupied the chair. The nomination of candidates to fill the various offices was taken, after which original papers were read by Messrs Ward (" Description of the West Coast _), Carr ("A Holiday Trip to the Empire City”). J. M'Anliffe ("Ventriloquism ) and Holland, jun. ("The Queen’s Birthday and how it was observed in Christchurch”) all of which were favourably criticised. The annual meeting and election of officers for the ensuing year will take place next Tuesday. The Defence Question.— Last night the Hon E. J. Seddon, Minister for Defence, had an interview with the officers of the district staff and the officers commanding corps, attheEiohmond Rifles* orderly-room. The officers present were Lieutenant-Colonel Gordon, Majors Douglas, Slater, Richards and Francis, Captains Bowron, Harman, Reece, Webster. M'lntyre. Whiteside, Massey and Macbean, Lieutenants Jackson, Joyce, Wilson and Andrews. The proceedings were, private, hut it is understood that the Minister gave some details of the lines on which it is proposed to organise the defence forces of the Colony, aud that these were approved by the officers present. Prime Mutton.— Some _ very prime sheep were sold at the Addington marke yesterday, and the price for the best continued firm throughout the The beat framed sheep were some sent in by Mr- James Little, of Allandsle, Waikari, which brought 19s 9d a head. These are the progeny of cross-bred rams from Mr Little’s ewe flock. This system of breeding was adopted by Mr Little some years ago, and its result has been highly satisfactory. The sheep make not only very fine mutton, but their wool has commanded the highest price in this market for some years past. _ The backbreeding system is now becoming popular with numbers of sheepowners, though it was for a length of time objected to on the ground of being impracticable. As a further proof of its success, the skins of these sheep at their last sale commanded 6d apiece more than those of any other butchers’ skins. Some three.quarter-bred wethers sold by the New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company for Mr John Gunn brought 24s 6d, the highest price paid this season. They are very largeframed sheep, not so fat or shapely as the previous lot, but thoroughly prime mutton.

Edea George Company, Limited, the leading photographers of Christchurch, who are producing by far the best work in New Zealand, take one do»en beautifully enamelled cabinets in any position or style lor 15s. One pries list adopted, and no extra charges are made to visitors from the country.—fAnvT.l , . .. O, H. Mannins has made no advance in the pries of hia greatly-admired and superiorly 9 xetinted photographic work. The game moderate charges ere made for hia excellent, appreciated pictures this tear as in the past. Blttin ga hs appointmnntad visablo to avoid detention owing to pressnreof business.

The Explosion at Rome.— -The terrific explosion that took place at seven o’clock oh the morning of April 23, at Port Monteverde, to the southward of Rome, did an immense amount of damage. At the Vatican, stained glass windows were shattered and precious relics damaged. The stained window of St Peter’s, over the famous chair, was broken; and at St Paul’s Church all the stained windows were more or less damaged. General Pelloux, Minister of War, said that 265 tons of ordinary gunpowder were stored in the magazine, which, however, contained none of the new explosive known as balestite. No positive cause could yet be assigned for the explosion. It was presumed that it was due to a process of slow combustion in the powder, though it would be difficult , to establish this with certainty. An official and technical inquiry had been opened into the circumstances. APerf eotPood—Aulaebrook's Biscuit*.—

A Blind Masseuse. —At the instigation of the London Charity Organisation Society, Miss Annie Chamberlain, a blind girl, has been trained by a medical man as a masseuse. Everyone knows how sensitive is the touch of a blind person, and it is found that certain nervous patients prefer the services of a rubber who cannot see. If this step widens the field of employment for those deprived of sight, it will be an excellent thing. Some time since we heard that Mrs Creighton Hale bad offered to teach massage free of expense to two blind girls. Sydney-Melbourne Rivalry. —Though Melbourne can crow over Sydney in the increase of population for the last ten years. New South Wales can turn the tables on Victoria. She started with 751,463 people, which was 110,000 less than Victoria, and she ends nearly 20,000 in advance. The relative growths have been Increase during decade. New South Wales ... 402,655 Victoria ... 271,500 And though there are 102,000 more people in Melbourne than there are in Sydney, yet there are 122,000 more people in the country districts of New South Wales than there are in the country districts of Victoria. The Breathing of a Locomotive.— The "breathing” of a locomotive—that is to say, the number of puffs given by a railway engine during its journey—depends (Iron says) upon the circumferences of its driving wheels and their speed. No matter what tiia rate of speed maybe, for every one round of the driving-wheels a locomotive will give four puffs—two out of each cylinder, the cylinders being doable. The sizes of driving-wheels vary, some being 18ft, 19ft, 20ft, and even 22ft in circumference, although they are generally made of about 20ft. The express speed vanes from fifty-four to fifty-eight miles an hour. Taking the average circumference of the driving-wheel to be 20ft, and tee speed per hour fifty miles, a locomotive will give, going at express speed, 880 poffs par minute, or 52,800 puffs per mile, the wheel revolving 13,200 times in sixty minutes, giving 1056 puffs per hour. Therefore, an express going from London to Liverpool, a distance of 201 f miles, will throw out 213,048 puffs before arriving at its destination. During the tourist season in 1888 the journey from London to Hamburgh was accompanied in less than eight hours, tee distance being 401 miles, giving a speed throughout of fifty miles an hour. A locomotive of an express train from London to Edinburgh, subject to the above conditions, will give 423,456 puffs. The Coming . Dress, A " Coming Dress ” Bazaar has been held at the Kensington Town Hall, at which (writes the London Standard) the fair stall-holders were able to give free scope to their prophetic instinct in this direction. The result of the experiment was, perhaps, more curious than pleasing. The designers of the dresses seem merely to have rearranged a number of styles already long familiar. The " tailor-made girl ” represented one extreme, and tee wearer of a loose and indefinite article of attire, something of a cross between a teagown and a pair of Turkish trousers, represented the. other. But there was one thing characteristic of all the costumes—with the exception of a dress framed on the model of teat worn by Japanese women of the old rdgime— in that they included, "more expressed than hidden,” the innovation which the euphemistic advocates of the new movement call the divided skirt. The tailor-made skirt covered it discreetly, and it lurked beneath the Oriental tea-gown and the accordion pleats—whatever they may be-r-daar to the modern school of stage-dancing.* In fact, however cliaofcio may he the prevailing ideas as to the rational dress of the future, on one thing women seem to be fully agreed —that it must bring with it emancipation from the burden of much petticoat. The coming woman is to be bifurcated and not ashamed. Seeing, then, that a concensus of opinion has been reached on this interesting point, it is curious that hardly any woman of tee present ventures to adopt tee coming mode, and that those few who, greatly daring, have actually made ■ it. their own, do their best to hide tee fact from the rest of tee world. If the " coming dress ” is to consist of no design more pleasing than an uncompromising tailor-made bodice at one end, and an ungainly pair of baggy trousers at the other, its acceptance ia likely to bo, for all time, a matter of the future. The women of to-day may be growing less conventional, they are certainly becoming more artistic; and a divided skirt is not art, even when best concealed. .