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New Zealand Herald, Volume XII, Issue 4397, 16 December 1875, Page 2

Any persons inspecting the site of the buildings just pulled down next door to the Bank of Now Zealand, cannot but bo struck with astonishment, that the succession of inhabitants who resided there during the last generation were not one aud all carried out feet tirst. Underneath what were the lower floors, there exists a fetid pool containing poison enough to fatally impregnate the air of the whole city with the seeds of fever, cholera, and plague. There must verily be something of a disinfecting nature in the air of this place. It is much to be feared that many other places in the city arc also reposing on piles built over reeking lakes of this description. Unfortunately the Inspector of Nuisances is powerless in the matter. The remedy lies in the hands of the inhabitants themselves, hi many parts it is well known that water-closets are above the level of the wells, and that they are so near to one another that the purifying agcncy of the earth can have no effect. The large mortality last season, and unusual prevalence of zymotic diseases may with certainty be traced to theso causes. Clearly, the powers of the Hoard of Health, and the Inspector of ought to be enlarged.

The Rev. G. 11. Turner preachcd his valedictory sermon to the members of the United Methodist Free Church last evening, in the fine building lately erected by the congregation. Notwithstanding the very uninviting aspect of the sky, the service was numerously attended, other l'rotestant denominations being well represented. The rev. gentleman took for his text the 15th verse of the 4th chapter of Paul's Epistle to the Hebrews :—"For we have not au high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Tho attention of his hearers was first directed jjo the sympathy of Jesus in all our troubles, and in all the daily cares aud anxieties of life, ile pointed out that the Christian needs sympathy, and that Christ is fit to sympathise with his people in consequence of his earthly character. Ho earnestly exhorted his llock to pursue holiness, and to preserve their unity, for in that lay their strength, and impressed upon them the necessity of attending fully to all the duties of the Church,—to throw their whole soul into the work, and to lay their all upon the altar. Tho rev. gentleman concluded his discourse by entreating those who attended his church, and who had not yet sought the Saviour, to do so at once. He might never have an opportunity of speaking to them again, and ho hoped that they would awake to a full sense of their danger. The address was very impressive throughout, and the assemblage appeared to feel deeply the sorrowful purpose for which they wore gathered together. Mr. Turner himself was greatly moved, especially towards the close of the service. We trust that the end sought to be attained by the liev. Air. Turner's visit to England will be successfully accomplished, aud that wo shall have the pleasuro of welcoming him back to our shores, and to the scene of his ministrations. Wo are quite sure that not only the members of the Church over which ho has had charge for the past three years, but all those with whom he has come in contact during his stay in Auckland, will join sincerely with us in wishing him a prosperous voyage to England, and a speedy return to New Zealand.

An extraordinary meeting of tho shareholders of the Bank of Tokatea Gold Mining Company (Registered) was held at tho company s office, yesterday. Present: 13 shareholders by person and proxy, representing 2642 shares. Mr. G. W. Friend occupied the chair. The manager read the advertisement calling tho meeting. It was resolved (1) "That the company bo voluntarily wound up under the Mining Companies Act, 1872 (2) "That the directors are hereby authorised to dispose of the company's mine and property, and divide tho assets amongst the shareholders whose calls are paid at this date(3) " That Mr. F. A. White bo appointed liquidator." A vote of thanks to the directors and chairman terminated the meeting.

Mr. Hutchinson, late of the Tribune, has defeated Mr. Gisborne in a contest for the mayoralty of Wellington, the strength of the successful candidate being with the mercantile and trading community at Te Aro. Mr. Gisborne is a formidable opponent in Wellington, and the result of the election shews in how high estimation Mr. Hutchinson is held by the citizens. In consequence of his defeat, Mr. Gisborne lias abandoned liis intention of standing for th« representation of Wellington.

The examination of candidate* for Provincial scholarjhips was commenced ye*terday morning, in the Temperance Hall, Albert-street, under the superintendence of R. J. O'Sulliyan, Esq., Inspector of Schools for the Province of Auckland. The competitors for scholastic honours, to the number of 65—more than tvro-thirds of whom were boys and the remainder girls,—occupied seats on each side of four broad desks, which ran, parallel to each other, nearly the whole length of the building. The subjects for examination yesterday were confined to questions in arithmetic, Roman history, and the laws of health. The questions are presented on printed slips, and the answers are required to be written out on sheets of paper laid before each individual for that purpose. We believe that the contest will be finished on Friday afternoon, but some little time must elapse before the result is known. The names of the different schools represented, aud the number of pupils which each send to the competition are as follow City|West No. 1, 4; Devonport (North Shore), 5 ; Mount Albert, 4 ; Grafton Road, 1 ; Newton 2S T o. 2 (St. David's), S ; Mauku, 2 ; Panmure, 3 ; Titirangi, 1 ; Otahuhu, 3; Otara, 4; Papakura, 4 ; Auckland City East, 7 ; Shoal Bay, 1; Waiotahi Creek School, 1 ; Onehunga, 4 ; Auckland City West, No. 2, G; Mount Hobson, : 1 ; Mrs. Harden's Girls'-school (Shoi'tlaud-street), 1. Of the town schools, it will bo seen from the foregoing list that Newton No. 2, Auckland City East, and Auckland City "West No. 2, have sent'the largest number of pupils. Of the country schools, Devonport, Mount Albert, Otara, Papakura, aud Onehunga appear to be proportionately conspicuous. The Otara school has hitherto proved the most successful, having always taken one or more scholarships. It remains to be seen, however, whether its representatives will retain the ■prestige, of their district.

A Jjia.ii named William M. Lloyd was broiiglvt up at the Police Court yesterday, shaHged withfetteflipting to provoka a breach of t£e peace. The man had been drinking in the City Club Hotel, and a dispute having arisen between himself and another individual, ho doubled up his coat-sleeves and invited his " friend" to " step outside," and he would strive to initiate him into a few of the mysteries of the noble art of self-defence. At this stage of the proceedings a constable appeared on the scene, and, with some trouble, removed the would-be pugilist to the lock-up. The prisoner, who seemed to be in respectable circumstances, and who was evidently well educated, was stated by Mr. Broham to hare ruined himself by strong drink. He was in receipt of a quarterly pension, which was generally quickly "melted" by him in a week or two after it had been paid him. The usual consequence of his excesses was lunacy, he having been three times in the Asylum already. The prisoner corrected Mr. Broham in this particular, stating that he had been admitted on five different occasions. A friend of the unfortunate man appeared in Court, and expressed a wish, if the Bench would agree, to take him to Waiheke. Upon the prisoner's promise to accompany his friend to that secluded island, he was discharged.

Two youths, named Thomas Hamilton and Michael Kilduff, were brought up yesterday morning before the Bench at the Police Court, upon a charge of stealing a quantity of flowers, valued at 4s, from the Presbyterian Cemetery. The lads, who bore good characters, appeared to be deeply sensible of the gravity of their position in being placed in the dock on a charge of larceny. Mr. J. B. Kussell made a very ingenious speech on their behalf. He did not atempt to set up any defence, but trusted that as this was the first offence of the kind, and that as the public were not fully aware that punishment could be inflicted for this seemingly trivial but really grave ofl'ence of desecration, and removing with ruthless hands the results of the labours of those who had striven with much pains to beautify and adorn the places where lay the last of those who had in life been near and dear friends, the Bench would take a lenient view of the case. The lads were remanded till this morning, and as the case is stillunderconsideration, we refrain from comment. Most probably the prisoners will bo discharged, after receiving a reprimand from the Bench.

The company who assembled to witness the launch o£ -Mr. Quick's river steamer for the Waikato, yesterday, at Onelinnga, were unaniniiius in wishing that at any future launch they may attend, the vessel may he owned by a coach proprietor like Mr. Quick. They were conveyed from Auckland to the spot in a four-in-liaud coach, regaled with a champagne luncheon, and afterwards taken for a drive further into the country by way of Mangere Bridge, round to Otahuhu, reaching town shortly before 0 o'clock, after a most enjoyable drive. Mr. Quick may be congratulated in possessing a boat that is likely to meet with the requirements of tlio passenger trade between .Mercer aiul Caulbridge ; and also able to navigate the shallows and to ride roughshod over the "snags." The building of another steamer is iu contemplation by her spirited owner. Particulars of the launch of the Quickstep appear in the shipping columns.

A great improvement is now being effected in Queen-street by taking up the masses of scoria supposed to form crossing-places. These, after the lapse of years, had become so worn and knocked out of shape that in wet weather they were worse than useless. People preferred to wade across the muddy part of the road to running the risk of. dislocating their ankles. The now crossings are to be asphalted, ill a similar manner to that which has proved so good a piece of work and which extends from the Waitemata Hotel to the wharf. The path across Shortland-streofc ia now being constructed.

The "performances last night at the Prince of Wales Theatre comprised "The Serious Family" and "The Man in Possession." Both pieces were well played. This evening "School" is announced, Miss Carry George as Naomi Tighe, and Miss Jennie Nye as Bella. The other characters are well cast, so that an excellent performance of this admirable comedy may be anticipated. For to-morrow evening the benefit of Mr. Sara Pool is announced. This wellknown actor will not want numerous patrons. In his "line" he is one of the ablest as well as most popular of theatrical favourites.

Wo are informed that telegrams have been received in Auckland stating that Sir Donald McLean, after addressing his constituents, will visit Gisborne, Opotiki, and Tauranga in the Luna, and will use his influence in Mr. Kelly's behalf. It is thought here that, except a reaction takes place, Mr. Wilson will be the favourite at Gisborne. Mr. Sheehan is using his powerful influence amongst the natives to secure the re-election of Karaitiana, who formerly represented the Eastern Maori District, and who is to be opposed, it is said, by Hoani Nalie, of the Thames.

A correspondent writes from Waipa in reference to the late cattle-stealing case, with which Scott was connected. Our correspondent asserts that Scott carried on cattle-stealing for eight or nine years, and that when he made his escape from the police he was aided and protected by others. We hope that our correspondent is incorrect in his assertions. He evidently feels strongly on the subject.

Some of the Thames electors have not yet abandoned the idea that Sir George Grey will represent that constituency. It is possible, wo hear, that Sir George Grey, after being elected for City West, will be put up for the Thames, and those who are taking action in the matter expect that he would resign the soat for City West and represent the Thames.

An open meeting of the Pioneer Juvenile Templars, 1.0. G.T., was held last evening, in the Y.M.C.A. rooms. Recitations were given by Sister Morson, Brothers Atkin, Mason, and Crand ; songs by Sisters Spurgeon and Bushell; readings by Brothers Salmon and Cartwright; and a speech by Mr. Downey.

We have just received the journals of the Auckland Provincial Council for the last session, which met in May last. The delay in the issue of the volume has been owing, we believe, to the fault of the printer.

The Secretary of the' Auckland Teachers, Association has received the fallowing letter, and we may remark that a .conference of teachers such a3 spoken of might be of great service to the cause of education : " Lyttelton Borough School, 23rd November, 1875. —Dear Sir, —It was suggested at the last meeting of the Canterbury Certificated Teachers' Association that a kind of informal conference of teachers from the other provinces might he held in Christchurch. The suggestion came too late to be of much practical rise ; but I am to inform you that if any members of your Associatien should be here during the first week of the new year, our town masters will be happy to entertain them at their houses, and if possible arrange a meeting to talk over the position of education in the colony.—l am, &c., G. Newell Phillips, Hon. Sec. C.C.T.A."

It is reported that a man named Walter Campbell was drowned in the Waikato River, between Kangiriri and Churchill, on Sunday, the 12th inst. He was returning in a canoe with some Maoris to Churchill, when in using the paddle he slipped and fell over the side of the canoe, sinking instantly, and was not again seen to rise. Deceased was a single man, and was employed as a labourer at Mr. C. Bell's Uax-niill.

Tlie ordinary sittings in banco were resumed yesterday before Mr. Justice Gillies. The only proceeding before the Court was the argument upon a rule nisi for a new trial in the case of Macffarlane v. Lockhart. Mr. Kees shewed cause against the rule. His Honor deferred judgment till next Courtday.

Our attention lias been called to the fact that the Court-house, Wairoa, has been appointed the principal polling-place of the East Coast district. This must surely be a mistake, as the Wairoa is not in the East Coast district as it stands, nor in the province of Auckland.

The Hauraki, which left Auckland for Coromandel at 11 o'clock yesterday, broke down somewhere off Brown's Island, one of the valves of the engine having given way. The Manaia went down and towed her up. The injury will be repaired by to-morrow.

Last evening there were only two drunkards and the prisoners on remand at the Police Station lock-up. There are four persons on remand—two lads for stealing flowers out of the cemetery, and the man and woman who are charged with arson.

To-morrow (Friday) is the last day for making entries for our forthcoming races, and owners are reminded that all entries and acceptances must be left at the Exchange Hotel by S o'clock p.m.

Referring to the damage caused by the floods, the li-aikalo Times has the following : —" A very heavy loss has been sustained in Waikato, both in respect to the damage done to public works and to the property of individuals. Many of the bridges which have not been utterly destroyed have received more or less injury, and will need a considerable expenditure upon them to put them in a fit state of repair. Others again, gone altogether, are works of such public importance that they will need to be at once replaced. To repair damage and open even the main line of communication will be utterly beyond the means of the several local bodies. No amount of special rate that could possibly be levied would be sufficient to make good the damage. Upon the Provincial Government should fall the cost of re-constructing the majority of these works, but the Provincial Government is insolvent. In such case it is to the Colonial Government that we must look to come to our assistance, and no time should therefore be lost by the proper local authorities in drawing official attention in detail to the damage to public works which has been caused by the late floods."

The Whangarei Comet says : —"Mr. George Smith, of the Whauwhau mine, has for some time past been engaged prospecting the coal found on Mr. Meldrum'a property. It is considered most likely that this is the Wliareora seam, and if such is the case the discovery is both important and valuable. A seam eight feet thick has been cut, and the quality of the coal is thought to be superior to that of the Whauwhau, and resembles the Whareora coal, which our readers will remember Mr. Tunny, the Provincial Analyst, considered even superior to Newcastle coal."

A bazaar to supplement the fund for a croquet-ground, &c., will be held in the High School, Symonds-street, this evening, to commence at G o'clock. The prizes will be presented at S p.m. by His Honor Sir George Grey.

The distribution of prizes to pupils of the Auckland College and Grammar School will take place on Friday, at the Choral Hall. His Honor the Superintendent will present the prizes.

The half-yearly meeting of the Cure Gold Mining Company will be held at the Company's oflice, Insurance Buildings, on the 22nd instant, at noon.

A meeting of the creditors of Maurice Foley, grocer, will be held to-day at the stores of Mr. G. W. Owen. Tenders for the erection of a Court-house at Waipu will be received by the Colonial A rcliitect until the 4th January. The City Council advertises for offers to lay down and conduct street tramways. Tenders are advertised for supplies for articles for the Provincial Government.