YESTERDAY'S HOLIDAY.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XI, Issue 4054, 10 November 1874, Page 2

YESTERDAY'S HOLIDAY.

The anniversary of the birth of H.R.H th Prince of Wales has been invariably dp voted m Auckland to festivity since the foundation of the colony. Yesterday no exception to the rule. The only ,]if ference was that the sports which had to be visited were some distance from town and must be visited by railway excursion' This of itself was an inducement to towns people. The result was that the railway station at Britomart, the steam ferries on the Waitemata, and the 'buses to the suburbs were besieged from an early hour. Xh> principal sources of attraction were the Cattle Show and Caledonian Sports at Ellerslie, the cricket match in the Domain and the promenades at and about the North Shore. Towards the afternoon the whole or these places were thronged with pleasureseekers. There was one feature of yester day's festive-making which is rarely seen The visitors to Ellerslie Itacecourse and G~r dens, the scene of the Cattle Show audCy, donian Sports, had tobe conveyed at the stateil hours by one tram consisting of twen 1 -- six carriages pulled or propelled by engines---two pulling in front and three pu«=h ing on behind. There was not, that we h-n- e heard a single Occident, but there was *ome grumbling at delays. CATTLE SHOW. "While the prettily-laid-out grounds of Mr Graham at Ellerslie were visits by a verv large concourse of people, the Cattle Show commanded the attention of those who were mostly intent on combining business nit}, pleasure. There was a iirst-Sass show • but this applies rather to the quality than to the number of the exhibits. The fact i« tin" the show was meagre. There was a reason for this in the late winds and severe weather which had a destructive effect upon the «ras-' Middling cattle therefore offered no ?how But the pedigree cattle were in rreater number than on any previous occasion. There was a really fine show of milcli cows and bulls, all of them claiming descent from the hnest breeds of English herds. 4s on former years, the Brothers Maclean were the exhibitors of the superior specimen* oi farm stock. The show of sheep included very fine specimens of the merino and longwoolled kind, but this department, it must be said, suffered in consequence of the alarming statements which had been made during the latter part of last week to the effect that the pasturage of these grounds was infected by scabby sheep. It was, indeed, rumoured very extensively that so prevalent was this disorder, that it would be unsafe to exhibit. The fact was that rumour in this case, as in every other, e gerated to some extent the ascertained facts. It now appears that scab had appeared amongst some sheep that were driven overland to the Auckland market, and for some time the appearance of the disorder "ave the greatest anxiety on all sides. The°GoTernment bought up Maori sheep, which were destroyed, and the access from outside was subjected to a rigid surveillance. This was invaluable aid, and even supposing there was not occasion for such -vigorous measures, it gave confidence to those in whose district the disease appeared that everything wasbeing done to aid the success of their endeavours in effecting a cure. With respect to the Cattle Show Coicmittee, they did everything that was possible to secure the confidence o? exhibitors. Pens of new timber were erected with praiseworthy celerity, every old fence about the ground was lined with new timber, and all the exhibits of sheep were twice dipped, every one having, so to speak, a " clean bill of health." Next to the Brothers Maclean as exhibitors, were Messrs. Thomas Morrill, Thomas Russell, James Wallace, Bassett, and John "Wallace. The list of prizes will be found below.

_ Horses.—Judges : Messrs. S. Motrin, G. Selby, G. J. Austin, J. Snodi,Tass. E. Constable, E. Foster. The show of horses may on a whole be considered creditable. The classes consisted of thoroughbred entires and mares, heavy draught entires, mares, colts, aud fillies, roadsters: (harness and saddle), |)airs of horses for agricultural and heavy cart work, and extra stock. There were in all i»S entries. In section 1, for thoroughbred entires, Mr. O. MeGee took the Ist prize, with Ake Ake, a splendid bay, possessing great power and excellent points, bred by Mr. H. Redwood. Of his pedigree, we may state that he is by Towton out of Miss Rowe. Sir Charles, the property of Mr. Driller, was the winner of the 2nd prize. He is a muscular brown horse, with a good head and shoulders on him. Mr. W. Adams also exhibited Clymenus, a brother to Dainty Ariel. In section 2, for three-year-old entires, there were only two entries. The first prize was awarded to Mr. W. Walters, with a likelylooking two-year-old by Dainty Ariel, (lam» Fanny Fisher. Mr. A. Buckland also shewed a fine upstanding two-year-old by the same sire, out of Una. There were four entries in section 3. Major Walnisley's chesna" mare, Moonbeam, took the Ist prize, and his bright bay mare, Atalanta, obtained second honors. The remaining exhibits were Mr. O. McGee's well-knowa racing mare Creeping Jenny and Mr. A Buckland's Una. In section 5, for two-year-old fillies, the iirst prize fell to a ehesnut of Mr. R. Wynyard's, named Novice, by De;by out of 2s un ; she is entered lorthe Auckland Derby, 1576. Only one entry was made in section G, namely Major Walmsley's JEreolyte, by the same horse as Novice, dam Cynthia, by Dainty Ariel out of Moonshine. He is a line-looking black colt, scarcely twelve months old, with many excelled points, and is also entered for the IS7G Derby. In the heavy draught class Young Xoblenian, Mr. J. Bainbridtje's, obtained Ist prize for entires. As his name implies, he is a noble looking animal. He is from imported stock, by Prince Arthur, and dam by Iron Duke, bred by J. Dilworth, Esq. This horse, without doubt possesses splendid points, and is one of the finest-bred horses in the province. Messrs. Brown and Campbell s Northern Hero took 2nd prize. Messrs. Wallace Brothers also exhibited the powerful horse Honest Tom, which obtained ht prize last year. In section 3 a five-yc;ir-o.(i dapple-gvoy mare, belonging to Mr. JHamiltou, took the Ist prize, and Messrs. A and J. Anderson obtained the 2nd prue with a useful-looking strawberry roan, tn foal. Messrs. Brown and Campbell, y Massey, and W. I. Taylor also exhibit**The Ist prize for three-year-old nUi*> was awarded to Mr. T. Dhorn's strawberrv roan, by Major. -l r * W. I. Tavlor" exhibited a handsome black fillv in" this class. In secti-n o, : Mr ; J. Hamilton's colt was awarded Ist and Messrs. Brown and Campbell's ba\ the 2nd prize. Mr. C. G. Murph} j ;J----exliibited a lilly. In the roadster were several entries. Amongst the hariK-* horses Mr. R. Reeves was deservedly the Ist prizefora well-formed blue roan.-*-} eaold mare, got by Matchless, a perfect of power aud symmetry —a tradesman 5 insure —a horse that may be described - " spirited, yet docile, and one that ' clinches to do a day's work whatever «. load is behind him. Mr. S. S. Bucri.laiu-(s-vear old black mare obtained 2nu p ru : Mr. S. J. Craig exhibited a weU-groonic bav gelding, which, with the new which he was harnessed, made a han = turn-out for a tradesman. A grey cu •» shewn by the Lnion t?ash and Door \ pany obtained honorable mention 4 many excellent qualities. The rollowiug--exhibited Messrs. Wvnyard, W. hnl \ ?] ' G, Evans, and T. Teasdale roadsters, a strong and undoubted} = black Maori-bred gelding, named - * W. Gardner's, took Ist prize m P to a horse exhibited by Mr. J. Banks, t obtained that honor last year. Mr. • Brown was awarded honorable nienti a bay horse exhibited. The following i peted :—Messrs. H. Knox, jnn., J. L H. Kohn, E. Halstead, J. S. Buckiand M A. Doruwell (2), F. D. Yonge, J - W. T. Buckland, J. C. Firth. horses for agricultural purposes ve

-resented by Alessrs. Brown and _ Campbell, c. Roberts, and W. and G. Winstonc. The'former obtained Ist prize. For heavy cart work Alessr3. W. and G. Winstonc took Ist and 2nd prizes with some very good strong horses ; one of which also obtained similar honors last year. In the extra stock, Air. W. black pony attracted considerable attention from his handsome appearance and good condition. He was awarded Ist prize, a similar honor being conferred on Air. W. Cinickshank's veteran pony Cocky. The latter has become quite an institution at cattle shows, it being the third or fourth year that he has taken a first prize. Air. F. K. Kinlock's Galloway mare, and Air. W. J. Alartin's bay pony, each obtained 2nd prizes, and Air. R. Wynyard's pony received honorable mention ; the same honor being accorded to Alessrs. Anderson and Co.'s chesnut gelding, and Air. W. F. BtiSsett's pair of brown gelding 3. Dr. Wright exhibited an entire diminutive Shetland grey pony, and an entire two-year-old pony. Air. li. Wynyard exhibited a pair of rats—we beg pardon—ponies, so small that the mistake is almost pardonable. The following also exhibited :—Alessrs. G. Hunter (black pony), J. J. Craig (bay pony), A. Buckland (lilack pony mare), Thornton, Smith and Firth (bay gelding Dragon), and J. Alassey (colt). A protest by Air. T. Brown ("or Brown and Campbell), against Air. J. Hamilton taking the Ist prize for heavy draught marcs was, after consideration, not entertained.

Cattle.—Judges : Alessrs. G. Rust, Al. Angove, and G. Broadbent. The show of cattle was comparatively small, the reason for which is owing to the fact that farmers and breeders of provincial stock will not compete against the imported stock, for the simple reason that they would have a poor chance of success. Such as were shown was in as good a condition as possible. In the Shorthorn class, Alessrs. 11. and 13. Alaclean's hull 25th Baron Wetherby, a noble-looking beast, carried off the first prize, their 9th Colonel Tregunter obtaining second honors. Alessrs. J. Alay and J. Paice also exhibited. In section 2, for bulls two years old and under, Alessrs. T. and S. Alorrin, who are newly in tho field, were awarded first prize for their fine hull Lincoln ; Theodore 37tli, also of their herd, taking second prize. Air. W. Pemberton's youthful bull Young Earl (a"ed 13 weeks) received honorable mention. A very evenj roan cow, Parti ek, with calf, of Alessrs. T. and S. Alorrin's, vas awarded first prize; Constance, also their property, receiving honorable mention. Lady Eleanor, a really good cow, with capital constitution, belonging to Alessrs. Alaciean, took second prize. In the heifer class, Air. T. Paton s two-year-old. by Young liavelock, received first prize. Alessrs. C. G. Alurpliy and T. and S. Alorrin also exhibited. Air. T. Paton also took first prize with a one-year-old red heifer, by Wizard, a heifer by the same sire taking second prize. Alessrs. T. and S. Alorrin exhibited Vixen No. G. and Air. R. Udy also exhibit ad. We next come to the Hereford class. Count Fosco, au eight-months'-old bull, was the only exhibit, shewn by Air. H. Vercoe, but was not deemed of sufficient merit for a prize. Aloss Rose, a very even cow all over, shewing good quality and condition, belonging to Alessrs. Alaciean, was awarded first prize. There is no doubt however, that had not Lady Timaru, of the Penrose herds, been in poor condition, she would have carried off the honour which for the two previous years has been conferred on her. Air. H. Yercoe's cow received the 2nd prize. The display of dairy cows may be described as the worst that has ever been exhibited here. Air. G. S. Wallace took Ist prize, and Air. E. Bovey 2nd prize. Alessrs. A. and J. Anderson and J. Alay were the only other exhibitors. For fat cattle, Alessrs. R. and E. Alaciean received Ist prize for stallfed oxen. They also receivect honorable mention for another exhibit. Alessrs. E. Fisher and Co. were awarded 2nd prize for some enormous beasts that are likely to cut up into prime beef. The same firm of cattledealers also took the 1 st prize for cows in the same class. Air. E. Bovey received Ist prize with a yearling heifer tor extra stock, in which Air. J. Bainbridge also exhibited. Sheep.—Judges: Alessrs. T. Henwood, W. Atkin, and J. Bollard. Notwithstanding the hue and cry that has been raised in reference to the ground having been contimin3ted by scabby sheep, the whole of the sheep entered for exhibit were brought on the ground, with one or two exceptions, their absence being, however, due to other causes. The show of this class of stock was very creditable, and an improvement on last year. The judgments may be described as being generally correct. It is quite evident that sheep can be bred here in equal perfection to the imported stock, if care is taken. For rams of the Leicester class, Air. T. Russell obtained Ist prize, and Air. C. Shepherd 2nd prize. Alessrs. J. P. de Carteret and A. and J. Anderson also exhibited. Alessrs. R. and E. Alaciean received Ist and 2nd prizes for ram hoggetts. Alessrs. T. Russell, A. and J. Anderson, and C. Shipherd also exliibited. In the Leicester ewes, Alessrs. R. and E. Alaciean undoubtedly had the best show, but owing to the pen being short of one lamb, were disqxialified, and Air. J. Wallace carried off first honors. The 2nd prize was awarded to Air. C. Shipherd, who also exhibited another pen of longwoolied sheep. Alessrs. Alaciean, J. Hayr, and J. Gillard also exhibited. Of Air. Hayr's sheep, it may be said thai he has not had the advantage of having imported sires, yet his sheep are almost equal to ~he veteran Alaclean's flocks. It may, however, be added that this is in a great measure due to the fact that he has had the advantage of the use of Alessrs. Alaclean's sires for breeding purposes. Messrs. It. and E. Maclean took the Ist prize for ewe hoggetts, and Air. J. Hayr 2nd prize. Other pens were shewn by these prizes-takers, and by Air. C. Shipherd. In the Lincoln class, Air. T. Russell was awarded Ist and 2nd prize, for some handsome and hardy rams. Alessrs. C. J. 'I'aylor and J. Alay exhibited also. All*. It. Aliddleton obtained Ist and 2nd prize fur ram hoggetts, a class in which Alessrs. J. Al;..y, J. Wallace, and T. Russell also exhibited. For ewes with suckling lambs the Ist and 2nd prizes were awarded to Alessrs. C. J. Taylor and J. Wallace. Some very pretty stock, bred by Air. Garfitt, Lincolnshire, were also exhibited by Alessrs. R. and E. Alaciean. In the ewe hoggett class, Air. J. Wallace carried off Ist and 2nd prize with sheep whose fleece, on shearing, weighed over 17 lbs. each. Alessrs. D. McNichol, J. Alay, and A. and J. Anderson also exhibited. Air. T. Russell was successful in obtaining Ist aud 2nd prize .'>r longwools shorn in January and March last. Alessrs. A. and J. Anderson and J. Wallace also had exhibits. The Ist and 2nd prizes for ram hoggetts were awarded to Alessrs. A. and J. Anderson and J. Wallace. The latter also took the Ist prize for ewes with suckling lambs ; likewise the Ist prize for ewe hoggetts, Messrs. Scott Brothers toVng the 2nd prize. Alessrs. A. and J. Anderson, C. Shipherd and the prize-takers r'=o exliibited other pens. Air. J. Alay was awarded Ist and 2nd prize in the class for extra stock with some creditable exhibits of Lincoln ewes.

Swine. —Judge : Mr. Bilkey. This class was poorly represented as usual. Mr. G. Styles carried ofi" Ist prize for tlie only exhibit of boars, and tie Ist and 2nd prize was awarded to Mr. H. Hamlin for sows, a section in which Mr. W. Ferguson exliibited also.

Poultry.—Judges : Messrs. C. T. Wren aud H. Hayr. Following so closely on the heels of the late Poultry Show in the Markethouse, it was hardly to be supposed that there would be many exhibits in this class. The long distance from town and the difficulty in conveying poultry stock to the Show also prevented many from competing, otherwise the public would have been treated with exliibits of rare stock by Mr. A. B. Woods and others. Mr. W. Ferguson obtained the Ist prize for white Dorkings, a similar honor being conferred on Mr. J. Wallace for grey Dorkings. Mrs. W. Steadman received a Ist prize for some handsome black Spanish, and Mr. Cowsill for creve cceur. Mr. A. E. Wood's exhibit of Houdons attracted much attention, and received deservedly Ist prize. This pen is, we believe the only lot in the province, and the breed have never been shewn before. An authority on poultry

says:—"This is one o£ the finest races of fowls; but its qualities surpass even its beauty. They are small of bone, and the fleah is fine; extraordinarily precocious, and remarkable for their fecundity. They lay a large white egg, and one fit for the table, at four months old. They are hardier even than Brahmas, and feather much more quickly. They are a very valuable breed for anyone to keep where non-sitters are required, as it is very rare for them to shew the least tendency to incubate." There is no doubt this breed will advance in favour. In extra stock, Master J. S. Craig was awarded Ist and 2nd prize for an exhibit of blue fantails.

Sheep-siikaring.—This operation, which always attracts great interest, was performed on a paddock opposite the Grand Stand. The following shearers competed :—Thomas White, li. Routly, M. Routly, D. Routley' J. Gillard, Luke Ballard, and E. Plumley, After an exciting contest, H. Routly was declared the winner of the Ist prize, and Luke Ballard the 2nd prize. Only two boys entered for their clc.ss, and the prizes were awarded as follow :—T. Gillard, Ist ; W. May, 2nd. Ju.MPiNfi-MATcir.—After the conclusion of the sheep-shearing, a jumping-match took place. A largo number of spectators having assembled, a keen and lively interest wa°, taken in the proceedings. The following entered :—Gelding, A. Dornwell ; black mare, J. J. Buckland; gelding, Paddy, J. J. Buckland; black mare, Polly, W. T. Buckland ; bay gelding, Dainty, G. Evans ; Gameboy, E. Halstead; Blaze, Air. T. Brown. The result of the jumping was as follows:—Mr. J. J. Buekland's black mare, Ist prize; Mr. T. Brown's Blaze, 2nd prize. In pony dumping Air. R. Peacock's aged gelding took Ist prize against Messrs. A. and G. Anderson's iron grey. Local Industries.—Judges : Messrs. T. Shipherd, \V. T. Bassett, J. Wallace (Flat Bush), J. Wallace (Mangere), and Duncan McNichol. Compared with last year and the previous year, the exhibits of local industry were small, and chietly confined to agricultural implements. Mr. J. Wallace, of Otaliuhu had a good show of implements of local manufacture, and for which he was awarded nine first prizes. His exhibits comprised the following: — Swing or single-wheel plough; light twowheeled auti-frictional plough ; heavy twowheeled anti-frictional plough; double-furrow plough, with central lifting and parallel straightening level's; double-furrow plough, with central lifting leverage ; light doublefurrow plough, with central lifting leverage ; plough skeitli, with deep nave ; large size spring tooth self-delivery horse rake; twohorse broadcast seed-sowing machine ; Norwegian harrow. For imported stock, Messrs. E. Porter and Co. received Ist prize, with a combined reaping machine by Portcous, and 2nd prize with a similar machine by Brigham, a Ist prize for a Star mowing machine, Ist prizes also for four harrows, six ploughs, seed-sowers (broadcast and drill). They also received honorable mention for three horsehoes, a stand of agricultural implements, and washing machines, &c. They also exhibited side-delivery reaping machine, turuip cutter and pulper, threshing machine, winnowing machine, horse mower, cheese presses. Messrs. R. and E. Maclean exhibited a Nicholson's new patent double-speed reaper, and a Victorian mowing machine by the same maker. Messrs. T. and S. Morrin also exhibited various implements, which were treated by the judges as follows : —One buckeye combined mower and reaper, Ist prize ; one Wood's combined mower and re<aper, 2nd prize ; one Hornsby's combined mower and reaper, commended ; one Hornsby's mower only, commended; one balance horse hay rake, Ist prize; three patent American post-hole augers, honorable mention ; two patent earth scoops, two Richmond and Co.'s patent chafi" cutters., two Bentall's patent chaff cutters, Ist prize ; chaff cutters, 2nd prize, j Messrs. Cousins and Atkin were awarded Ist prize for both a single and double-seated buggy. The first possessed the specialty of a round corner boot, bent in one piece, a new principle of wheel-plate, for which no ringbolt is required. It is stated to be constructed on the Purchas principle, which enables a buggy to be used on a rough and uneven road without any strain upon the body. The invention has not yet had a trial, but it appears at first sight to be scarcely an improvement on Dr. Purchas' simple plan of a hinged ring-bolt constructed to supersede the necessity for a look-plate for 4-wheeled vehicles. The one exhibited by Dr. Purchas has been a year in use, and is said to answer admirably. It possesses the motion of a twowheeled vehicle, with the advantage of the security of a four.wheeler. A well-made heavy spring cart, manufactured by Air. J. S. Currie, the enterprising coach-builder, for Air. F. Archard, Mechanics' Bay (late Archard and Brown), received special commendation from the spectators, and Ist prize from the judges. It has the appearance of being strongly and substantially made, well finished off, and of excellent workmanship, as indeed is all Air. Currie's work. A neat spiderbuggy by Mr. C. G. Quick was rewarded witlia Ist pike. Two pair of handsome wheels, of first-class workmanship, by Alessrs. Gee and Potter, received Ist prize ; and a spring cart, made by the same firm, 2nd prize. Amongst a general assortment of saddlery and harness, exhibited by Air. W. S. Jones, a locally-made cart harness received Ist prize; some imported saddlery receiving also honorable mention. Next in order comes a set of pottery ware, &c., exliibited by Air. Carder, sen., for which Ist prize was obtained. The articles exhibited shewed what could be manufactured in this line in the province. Air. R. Gillespie exhibited tobacco grown in the Wairoa. Air. E. W. Gotch had a good show of difFerent kinds of cut and plug tobacco, cigars and snuff, all manufactured from leaf grown in New Zealand. Tobacco leaf grows in the province, and tobacco plants in pets.. For his exhibits he received Ist prize, an honor which has been conferred on liim at the three previous shows. Air. J. Allender had a good 3liow of fancy, common, and soft soaps and mould candles, for which he received two Ist class prizes. A Ist prize was awarded to Air. H. H. Smith for wrought iron Leamington and cottage ranges, and for an improved patent portable smoke consuming oven. He exhibited also a colonial oven. A new local industry was reprcs jntcd by Air. F. G. Brown in the shape of lemon and orange marmalade and candid peel made from Auckland grown lemons, which will be found cheaper than the imported peel. A Ist prize was awarded for these, also for biscuits. Airs. C. Bortliwick exhibited woollen yarn and men's socku made from wool grown on Airs. W. Hay's :w at Papakura, and knitted by herself. She deservedly received Ist prize, a second prize being awarded to Miss McLean for knitting. A fancy-made patchwork by Airs. T. Short and a quilt by Mrs. Casey both received Ist prizes. Air. J. S. Wendall exhibited some of his locally manufactured peach, still, and sparkling wine and summer drinks. A first prize was awarded. THE OrNNER. The dinner was laid our in a marquee. His Honor the Superintendent took the chair. About three hundred gentlemen sat dow a. On the right of the chairman was the Mayor of the city, on the left Mr. John Sheelian, Provincial Secretary. There was a magnificent dinner provided by Air. W. A. Clarke. His Honor having proposed the usual loyal toasts, then gave that of "The General Assembly," which was responded to by Alessrs. Alaciean, Buckland, and Alay. "The Agricultural Interests" was replied to by Air. Leslie. Air. AlcAlillan, in proposing the next toast said:—l am requested to propose a toast, the mention of which is sufficient to evoke your hearty enthusiasm. Gentlemen, I have ■ to propose to you the agricultural interests of this province. You seem to have adopted " Excelsior" for your motto; as year succeeds year we find the last year outstripping the former in the variety of exhibits at your show, as well as its popularity amongst all classes of the community—the eager and interested faces are convincing proofs of the suceesg of the Society. But while the shows of the Society are a great success, there are difficulties which require to be grappled with firm determination, or else the agricultural

interests of this province cannot continue to progress as rapidly as we all desire. We_ in Auckland, when we take up our morning paper, under the head " imports" we notice a ship arrived from Australia laden with potatoes. Further down we see a ship from XjJ ttclton, laden with wheat, oats, bran, bacon, &c., &c. The next morning we find the Star of the South lias arrived, laden with sheep and cattle from Napier, and perhaps the St. Kilda, laden with sheep and cattle, from Wanganui. Now, as business men, we begin to count the cost to our Southern friends, so down we put inland carriage, freight, insurance, commission, ard charges, all amounting to a large sum. Now, I am not going into a metaphysical controversy as to the cause and cure of this. It is enough for mo to know that the evil exists, and that it ought to be removed. I daresay I shall be censured by some for not taking a broader and more comprehensive view of this postion, namely, that what benefits one part of the province benefits the whole, but I confess I am narrow-minded enough to feel tnat when we send out of this province our hard cash we impoverish ourselves, and by remitting to Canterbury only help to enrich them. I know there is a society in existence that has for its leading spirit no less a personage than Mr. Albin Martin, and if that gintlcjuau coukl devise some legitimate schrnv,. to meet this difficulty he would win the thanks of the whole community. For my part, I believe there is a glorious future !' ' the cultural interests of this piw.nce. lhe Society is merely in its infancy. In a short time we shall have railway communication with Waikato, and at our annual shows we shall have exhibitors of every variety of farm produce from every part of the country. I hope the day is not far distant; when wo shall not only be able to supply our own wants, but when it will be necessary to construct large warehouses to hold the immense quantities of wheat, ready for export, to feed the distant millions. We have a market in the Pacific, the extent of which we can form no conception. It was only the other day that we heard that Fiji was ceded to the British Crown, so that in a short time we shall have a large population of our countrymen, who by their energy and capital will make their influence felt in the Fiji Islands, Samoa, Tahiti, and the New Hebrides, not to speak of the innumerable inlands scattered through the Pacific. These people will require food to eat, and it will be for you to supply this food, and thus add to your solid wealth. And, geutlemer, if you avail yourselves, what a prospect opens before you,—farmers _ will be breaking up fresh land and enlarging their borders ; to cheapen labour new and expensive machinery will be imported, and on every side peace and prosperity will reign j throughout the province. 1 ask you, gentlemen, to drink '' Success to the Agricultural Interests."—The toast was duly responded to. Several other toasts, including "The Judges," "Successful Competitors," "Unsuccessful Competitors," &c., were drunk, and the festivities broke up at about ten o'clock. THE CALEDONIAN GAMES. The annual Caledonian Games were held during the day in the Ellerslie Gardens, and were a much greater success from every point of view than they have previously been. Air. Graham's gardens at Ellerslie are thoroughly well adapted as a place of public amusement and resort. The extensiveness of tin: grounds, the skilful and picturesque manner in which they have been laid out, and their immediate proximity to the railway station, render them exceedingly valuable in tills respect. It is, therefore, not to be wondered at, that with these advantages an energetic committee, under the direction of one as eminently fitted to eater for public amusement as Mr. Robert Graham, should have inaugurated sports which obtained very liberal patronage, and gave every satisfaction. Tliecharge forentrance to the gardens and sports was moderate, and by a very convenient arrangement, the railway ticket was made to admit its bearer to the sports in addition to being used as an ordinary travelling pass. Return tickets, including admission to the Gardens, were issued for 2s 3d each at the station-house. In cod"equence of these liberal arrangements and the attractions of the Caledonian Games, which have, as a rule, been fairly successful, a very large number of persons elected to spend their holiday in the newly formed pleasure grounds of Ellerslie. The trains were crowded with passengers, and as many as twenty-live carriages were brought into requisition at the 11 a.m. train, and even then a large number of passengers were left behind both at Auckland and Newmarket. On arrival at the Gardens everything was found to be done that was practicable to make them inviting and entertaining. The summer-houses offered cool shade and quietude to those who preferred these qualities to the more boisterous methods of enjoyment, whilst in difl'ereut parts of the ground refreshments of another or rather of many other different kinds was provided, and although this class of refreshment was in full demand there was very little intoxication, and none of the disgraceful drunken brawls which frequently tarnish what might otherwise be unmixed pleasure. Numerous swings and a merry-go-round were provided for children, and for children of a larger growth several games of chance were held out by individuals who usually resort to such places to induce the unwary to part with their loose silver.

Amongst other means of entertainment a rotunda and band was provided, and those who chose—and they were many—practised with assiduity the poetry of motion, as set forth in "tripping the light fantastic toe." In addition to this there were two other bands oil the grounds—tlie band of the Artillery Volunteers and the Temperance Drum and Fife Band, and music was discoursed almost without intermission.

As reports the sports themselves, every precaution hail been taken to prevent confusion or misunderstanding relative to them. Judges for each event had been appointed and published, together with a programme of the various games. The following was the list of officers Starter, Captain J. Mowbray ; referees, Mr. J. Cruickshank and .Mr. J. Cosgrave; handicappers, Mr. A. Murray and Mr. G. H. Fletcher ; treasurer, Mr. Robert Graham ; secretary, Mr. William IV-rcival. Committee : Messrs. Robert Whitson, Fraser, John Cosgrave, Thomas Morrin, James Russell, John Stuart Reid, J. S. Macfarlane, Robert Graham, George Johnstone, John Kirkwood, John Cruickshank, John Mowbray, and R. C. Greenwood. The following were the events as they came off: Quoits. — This game v/as commenced at 9 a.m., and, as usual, took a considerable time to decide, and excited but little interest. For it there were five entries; —Cottis, Charles McLean, George Smith, William Stirling, and Walter Wilson. At the conclusion of the George Smith was declared to lie the winner, ,vul to him the prize of £2 was awarded. Maiden Fi,at Race, £00 yards, open to all who never won an a' l v<?>tised race. First prize, £2 ; second pri.--?, £ 1. O. Mulonc.. .. 1 T. Tanner 2 The other entries were—George Davis, T. Kerr, E. Lowe, Abraham Good, John Cutler, G. Jennings, T. Jotighlin, J. Bruce, W. Kelly, C. Johnson. Considerable interest was ccntred in this the first race of the day, and as there were several " dark horses," the favourite was not easily determined. After the usual play upon the scratch, the company got away well together, but there was 110 mistaking tlie winner after the first few yards had been traversed. Malone won without an effort. Throwing tub Heavy Hammer, 16 lbs. First prize, £2; second prize, £1. Charles Mc"Lcan, 87 feet .. ..1 William Stirling, 76 feet 9* inches .. 2 The only other entry was W. Tanner. MoLean won this in his first throw. Highland Fling, in costume. First prize, £2 ; second prize, £1. M. F. M. White law X McLennan 2 These were the only entries. The dancing was very graceful, and the performers were

both applauded. Messrs. Robert WHtson and R. Graham, were the judges.

Flat Race, 100 yards, handicap; heats. First prizo, £2; second prize, £1.

O'Hare, scratch 10 1 Malone, 1 yard OX2 The following were the other entries, with handicaps addedJ. Donovan, 3 yards ; T. Kerr, 3 yards ; G. Davies, 3 yards ; A Kelly, 2 yards; D. Donovan, 2 yards; E. Lowe, 3 yards; A. Good, 5 yards; T. Tanner, 2 yards ; John Cutler, 4 yards ; H. Wyldes, 4 yards; G. Jennings, 4 yards; T. Joughlin, 3 yards, C. Williams, 1 yard ; O. Johnston, 4 yards ; W. G. Nash, 4 yards; J. Phillips, 5 yards; H. Fox, 5 yards. O'Hare was the smartest on his pins, and made his advantage in this manner. From the first this race was looked upon as a gift to him. Malone was, however, his match for the first SO yards. Pciting the Heavy Stonk, 22 lbs. Prize, £2. "William Stirling, 29 feet 5 inches .. 1 Charles McLean, 29 feet 4 inches .. 2 These were the only entries, and only one prize was given. Irish Jig. Prize, £2. —For this event there were two entries, Harry Macfarlane and M. F. M. Wliitelaw, and as it resulted in a tie, the prize was divided. Mr. Kirby, who had acted as judge, then became performer, and danced a jig with such spirit and accuracy that it was clear that if he had been a competitor the division of the prize money would not have been necessary. His efforts to please were cordially acknowledged by rounds of applause. Flat Race, half-mile, handicap. First prize, £2 ; second prize, £ 1. E. SewcU, scratch 1 "W. Cnssen, 72 yards 2 Maloney, 4 yards 3 The other entries were A. Kelly, W. S. Fagan, E. Lowe, A. Good, T. Tanner, W. McMillan, John Cutler, James Cutler, W. Webber, E. O'Hare, W. Stevenson, and L. Powclill. Cussen and O'Hare had fanciers, but the powerful stride of Sewell marked him as the winner after the first 100 yards. Sewell's style was greatly admired. Cussen was evidently out of form, and the distance at the pace was too great for any of the others. Sewell won as he liked. Boys' Race (Handicap) : age, under sixteen years ; distance, 200 lyards. First prize, £1; second prize, 10s. T. Kerr, scratch .. .. .. .. 1 Tomo, 5 yards * 2 For this race there were twelve other entries, variously handicapped. The run was au exciting one. The boys kept well together, only two of them lagging behind. Several ran in nearly abreast of cach other. The other entries were —Tlios. Morgan, Meakalia, W. Donovan, W. S. F. Hagan, R. \V. Sceats, John Eyre, George Edgar, W. McMillan, H. Wyldes, George Robinson, William L. Peek, and Charles Stirling. Reel of Tulloch. Prizes—lst, £2: 2nd, £1. McLennan 1 j M. F. M. Wliitelaw 2 There was only one other entry—W. Stirling. Messrs. K.irkwood and Wliitson were the judges of this event. Hoi', Step, and Jump.—Prizes—lst, £2; 2nd, £1. Bradley, SS feet 11 inche, .. ..1 Nash, IJ3 feet 4 inches .. .. .. U Besides these there were six entries, and the keenness of the competition created much interest. The other competitors were—W. Cussen, J. Donovan, T. Kerr, A. Good, T. Tanner, and T. Joughlin. Tossing the Caber. Prize, £2. Messrs. Kirkwood and Wliitson. For this there were only two entries, and Charles McLean was declared the winner. Flat Race, 300 yards, handicap. First prize, £2 ; second prize, £1. .D. Malone, 3 yards 1 T. Kerr, 10 yards .. .. .. .. 2 There were thirteen entries for this race, which was cliielly noticeable for its good start and even running. The other entries were W. Cussen, J. Donovan, George Davies, T. Ivcrr, E. Lowe, A. Good, T. Tanner, W. I Tanner, G. Jennings, E. O'Hare, T. Joughlin, and W. Kelly. Swokd Dance.—First prize, £2; second prize, £1. ' M. F. M. Wliitelaw 1 Thomas ratewart 2 These were the only entries ; but this very critical dance was skilfully performed, end both prizes awarded. Messrs. R. Wliitson and R. Grahaui were the judges. Putting the Light .Stone, 12 lis.—First prize, £2 ; second prize, £1. Charles McLean, 3G ft. 7 in. .. ..1 W. Stirling, 30 ft. 5 in 2 The remaining entries were Messrs. W. Tanner and R. Peacock. Flat Race. —2CO yards. First prize, £2 second prize £1 ; open only to members of the Thames and Auckland Scottish Volunteers, in uniform. M. F. M. Wliite'aw 1 James Ness .. .. .. ... 2 The only other competitor was Mr. Melvor. o\\ ing to the small number of entries there was no particular interest attached to this race; but it was fairly contested. Throwing tiie LigiitHammer.—Prize, £2. Charles McLean, distance 99 feet 3 inches 1 Messrs. Bruce, W. Stirling, and Tanner also entered for this event, and threw creditably. Scotch Reel. — Prizes, £3 and £1. For this event Mr. "Wliitelaw alone entered, and the first prize was awarded to him. Flat Race. —1 mile; handicap. First prize, £3 ; second prize, £1. E. Sewell, scratch.. .. .. ..1 W. S. Fagan, 75 yards 2 For this race, which was one of the most interesting of the day, there were no less than seventeen entries. After some little difficulty a start was made, and the running commcnced in real earnest. Sewell ran with discretion, beirg content with a third and fourth place for more than the first half of the mile, and then pulling up gradually and shooting ahead past the winning-post. .41- , though he could not bo said to have won easily, he certainly won well, for the one who occupied the second placc had 75 yards handicap to his advantage. Several of the competitors fell out of the race when half finished, and others only straggled to the post. The race was a very severe test to the powers of endurance of those who essayed for the prize. McMillan, who occupied third place in the race entered a protest against Fagan ; but, as far as we can learn, its validity has not been accepted by Fagan, or approved of by the judges. The names of the others who ran in this race are—W. Cussen, I W. H. Pivott, A. Kelly, E. Lowe, A. Good, T. Tanner, W. Tanner, W. M'Millan, -James Cutler, H. Wilde, W. Webber, F. A. Mercer, E. Donovan, W. Stevenson, and A. T. Friend. Sack-hack.—For this race there were four entries ; and a plenitude of amusement was created by the competition; but owing to some objections, it was held to bo informal; and as the competitors declined to run over again, it was held to be no race. The entries were—George Davies, W. S. Fagan, John Cutler, E. Donovan, and C. Johnston. Vaulting with the Pole.—One prize, £1. J. Rradley 1 T. Kerr .. 2 The other entry was made by William Hyde. Boys' Race, under 13 years, 150 yards. First prize, £1; second prize, 10s. William -Whiteside 1 James Inniskcller 2 There were twelve entries for this race, and all ran fairly. The winners were so only by very short distances. Hurdle Race, over S flights of 3 feet G inch hurdles. First prize, £3; second prize, £1. "VV. Cussin .. .. .. .. ..1 O'Hare 2 Thirteen entries were made for this event, as follows :—T. Kerr,- A. Kelly, W. S. Fagan, E. Sewell, E. Lowe, A. Good, T. Tanner, John Cutler, W. Webber, T. Joughlin, C. Johnston. Wheelbarrow Race, blindfold. Prize, £2. There were four entries, and a competitor was successful in making the post first.

The event created so much mirth that a second race was improvised, which was won by a person named Johnson. The proceedings concluded with "Auld Lang Syne," after which a general stampede was made for the station. THE DOMAIN. The principal sources of attraction at this favourite place of resort, yesterday, was the opening cricket match of the season—The World v. England. The match was an excellent one for the opening game, and affords promise of a good season; "in play" Robinson captained the English, and Mr. Yates the World, of which only ten put in an appearance as representatives. The following was the score, shewing that " England" won by 22 :— ENGLAND. FIRST TN'NINGH. SECOND I.VNINUS. Mumford, b Buckland.. 1 b Buckland .. 8 Garland, b Connell .. 0 c Mowbray, b Connell .. .. 0 Mills, lbw, b Buckland 3 st Russell, b Buckland .. .. 0 Robinson, b Connell .. 0 b Buckland .. ..5 Dufaur, not out .. .. 17 b Connell .. .. 7 Colson, b Bucklaud .. 0 b Connell .. ..1 Cotton, b Connell .. 3 b Buckland .. .. 12 Lacon, b Buckland .. 1 b Connell .. ..7 Paul, c Mowbray, b Connell 0 not out .. ..5 Clifton, b Buckland 0 b Buckland .. ..7 Rees. absent .. ..0 Jackson c Connell . 0 Byes, &c. 2 Byes, &c., .. 7 Total 27 Total .. .. C 5 THE WORLD. FIRST INNINGS. SECOND INNINGS. CJleeson, c Mumford, b Cotton .. ..5c Lacon, b Robinson 3 Davies, ob Cotton .. 1 lbvr, b Robinson ... 7 Yates, c Cotton,b Robinson .. .. ..Ob Paul .. ..11 Nolan, b Cotton.. .. 0 lbw, b Cotton .. 2 Mowbray, b Cotton .. Ob Robinson .. .. 3 Russell, c Cotton, b Robinson .. ..0 b Robinson .. .. 0 Buckland, c Lacon, b Cotton .. ..3b Robinson .. .. 2 Horan, c Mills, b Cotton 0 b Robinson .. ..4 Connell, c Clifton, b Cotton .. .. C c Dufaur, b Robinson .. .. 1 Brookes, b Cotton .. G not out .. .. 0 Philson, not out,. .. 1 b Rotinson .. .. 2 Byes, 3 Byes, &c. .. 10 Total .. .. ..25 Total .. .. 45 THE VOLUNTEERS. The Artillery corps assembled on the Albert Barrack Green yesterday morning, and fired a salute of *21 guns in honor of the thirty-third birthday of Albert Edward, Prince of Wales. Three chcers for His Royal Highness were also given, and the baud breathed a fervent prayer in the tune of " God Bless the Princc of Wales." Captain Burns afterwards entertained the men and their oOicers at his residence, -when the company separated.