AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XV, Issue 5097, 19 March 1878, Page 3

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

[from papers to the 13m in\st.]

A writ for £500 damages has been issued against the Age newspaper, by Messers, Higginson, of New Caledonia, for libel. Peter Podmore, wheatmerchaut, Adelaide, has been sentenced to three years' imprisonment for fraudulent insolvency. Instructions were received at Fremautle the last mail for breaking up the military establishment. The sea serpent is reported to have been Been about 12 miles north of Fremantle. A political association has been formed at Adelaide. The ticket includes the abolition of free immigration, payment of members, free, secular, and compulsory education, a poll-tax on tho Chinese, and reform of the Upper House. A deputation from the Licensed Victuallers' Association waited on the Chief Secretary of Victoria, with a view to induce tho Government to take action to put down sly-grog-selliog. Mr. Berry thought that the trade should take tho work upon themselves, but promised to refer the matter to the Attorney-General. The Gunga, arrived at Sydney, from New Caledonia, reports that the barque Pacilic Slope, from New Zealand to Shanghai, encountered a violent gale between New Zealand aud Noumea, and put in on tho Bth February, with the cargo shitted and the vessel damaged. She had to discharge 55.000 feet timber. The chief steward of the Gunga jumped overboard, and was drowned. The Commissioner of Railways, Sydney, has adopted the block system, which is working admirably. A resolution was carried in the New South Wales Parliament to ascertaiu how the schools throughout the colony were ventilated. At the Observatory, Adelaide, on the sth iust., the thermometer was over 103 dug. in the shade, aud luldeg. iu the sun duriug the day. While two sisters of St. Joseph, Mary Laureutia and Alary Maculator, wore extinguishing the kerosene lamps in the Port Augusta Catholic Church, one of the lamps burst, and both the sisters were enveloped in flames. Sister Liurcntia died next day, the other i 3 not expected to recover. Colouel Scratahley, Celuuel Kiuhardsou, and Mr. E. (J. Cracknell have proceeded to Newcastle to irake arrangements to carry out Sir William Jervois's recommendation for the defence of the port. The chiming of the town, clock, Adelaide, was heard through a telephone at Gawler, 2G miles distant. Mr. Graham, partner of Moore, tho wellknown bookseller, Sydney, fell through a trap door in a store to a depth of 12 feet, aud was killed. The Adelaide Agricultural Show was attended by an immense crowd of between SOOO and 10,000 persons. Deplorable accounts have been received at Sydney of the state of things in Noumea. Commercial confidence is apparently destroyed. An extensive fire occurred at Ross Glass Works, between Newtown and Camperdown, New South Wales. The building was entirely destroyed. The loss is estimated at £2000, of which £1000 is insured in the New Zealand Insurance OlHce. A number of cattle died suddenly at Gutidagai recently, it is supposed from eating the castor oil plant. Burglaries are becoming frequent in the City of Sydney. The report of the Inspector of Insane in New South Wales shows a large increase of lunacy in that colony during the last five years. The Victorian Government have decided to supply all State schools throughout the country with a coloured chart, illustrative of the common insectivorous birds of Victoria. The chart has been prepared by Mr. A. R. Wallis, Secretary for Agriculture for the Education Department, and will be issued from the Government Printing office within a few days. It is produced by chromolithography. The chart contains illustrations of 36 species of birds indigenous to the colony. The letterpress attached give the common and scientific name of each bird, the locality of Victoria where it is found, and some particulars respecting the nature of its food. The illustrations are from the original drawings of the late John Cotton and Gould's work on " The Birds of Australia." It is contemplated to protect these birds from destruction by statute.

A fire occurred on the promises of the Beehive Hotel, situated in Blackwood street, Hotham, Victoria. The hotel was occupied by Miss Mary Doherty. A lodger in the house was awakened by hearing a noise, and, on getting up, found the house on fire. She at once went to arouse Miss Doherty, who was sleeping in a room at the back of the bar, but failed iu so doing in consequence of the heat and smoke. Some of the neighbours, who had been alarmed by the fire, broke open the place, and with water proceeded to put out the fire. The Hotham fire brigade arriving, at once got to work, and iu a short time extinguished the flames. Ou the room in which Miss Doherty was sleeping being entered, she was found in a crouching position under the window, and quite dead. The damage was confined to the bedroom in which the fire originated. The cause of the fire is at present unknown. Colonels Anderson and Scratchley, accompanied by Mr. Barrett, of the Public Works Department, arrived at QneensclirT, Victoria, by the Golden Crown, and at once proceeded to peg out the positions for the foundations and works of the lower battery, which will be completed in about six week?, and tho 9-inch guns mounted. The instructor of gunnery, Captain W. H. Snee, has been here some time, superintending the preparation at the batteries. The fourth SO-pounder has been mounted, and in the evening the Queenscliff Volunteers turned out for shellpractice at a target moored at 3000 yards from the battery. The practice was excellent, the shells bursting round and obscuring the target. The Volunteers turned out well, considering the appearance of the weather, as it threatened a heavy down pour of rain. A large collection of shells, which has been formed by M. Roehn, a French naturalist, during his scientific exploration of the shores of Mauritius, Bourbon, Seychelles, Rodrignes, Madagascar, and Australia, is on view in the establishment of the Compagnie Frangaise, Melbourne. The specimens are upwards of 1200 in number, and some of them are rare, and many of them of exceptional beauty. The formation of the collection has occupied M. Roehn for some years. The following was received at Sydney from Cooktown :—The Ellangowan arrived on Sunday morning from New Guinea, with Chalmers and Dudfield on board. The latter is quickly recovering. Chalmers reports that after May 8, when they left South Cape, the party had an anxious time. The natives were very threatening, but the friendly villagers prevented the others from attacking them. Chalmers has left his wife at South Cape. There is no other European there. M'Gorn, master of the Retrieve, of Captain Redleek'a beche-de-mer party, is reported killed by the natives of the Engineer Group. The vessel was burnt, and the station ransacked. After landing Ingham at Point Moresby, the Prospect, cutter, with Redleeks, proceeded to ascertain the particulars. Mr. Chester writes that he has received a letter from Mr. Goldie, in which he deplores the excitement caused by his gold discovery, and again warns people against going to New Guinea. A case of typhoid terminated fatally at Thursday Island. There ia no other case. Missionary Macfarlane left Thursday Island in the Maggie for New Guinea least week.

Tenders are invited by the eecretary of the Ponsonby Highway District Board until the 22nd wit., for (011017 work* in the dintrict.

ST. PATRICK'S DAY. SCHOOL PETE IN THE DOMAIN. Tiie annual celebration of this holiday included the procession of the Roman Catholic schools to the Domain, and the/e<e given to the children by friends, parents, guirdians, and teachers. The opening of the day wore the reverse of promise. It had been raining heavily during the night, and heavy banks of clouds menaced the contemplated outdoor pleasures. As tho morning advanced the sun emerged steadily, and afforded securit} - for fair weather, which was not disappointed. At half-past nine o'clock the children commenced to muster in Mr. Dignan's paddock, towards the north end of Hobson-street. Their number gradually increased until at length ihere was a crowd of 2700 children, all gaily dressed and decorated with the national colour. Mr. P. Diguan had charge of the boys. The Hobson band was soon on the ground together with the members of the H.A.C.B.S. in "regalia." The principal feature in the throng was provided by tho aspect of the orphans—the nuns' children—of St. Mary's Convent, Ponsonby. These wore accompanied by the young lady boarders, and day pupils, also taught by those religious ladies. All the children bore wands, surmounted with bannerete of various colours, having in the centre a cross of some complementary hue. The marshalling of this large body of children was no easy mutter, but they were individually very tractable and obedient, and gave little or no trouble. Tho Convent children were about 200 in number. The children of St. Patrick's School mustered between 500 and 600 ; but this represents only a very small proportien of the children actually present who were former scholars, and the occasional scholars, whose attendance, from various causee, is intermittent. The scholars formed into four divisions, and the procession being formed, steady progress was made to the Domain, where, upon their arrival, the children were regaled with a plentiful lunch and refections of various kinds. On the way to the Domain, the procession was joined by tho children of the schools connected with the t'arnell Convent, to the number of 200, Father Fynes being in charge of them, and upon arriving in the Domain, the children of tho Ouehunga Roman Catholic schools to the number of ISO, in charge of Father Paul, were in waiting. The children of St. Mary's Convent aud St. Patrick's Schools wero in charge of the Rev. Father Walter MacdtmaM and the Rev. Father O'Dwyer aud the pupil teachers or monitors. Those of Parnvll were in charge of Rev. Father Fynes, Miss Rapsou. Miss Kilfoyle, and otlier young ladies who are at present scholars or have been educated at the Convent School, I'arnull. Newton School was in charge of Mr. IC. Mahon. Each school had its banner of silk with appropriate device—in one case the "harp" in another the "cross," worked round with wreaths of shamrock, or various modification of those chief emblems of the purpose and nationality of the gathering. It would he difficult to imagine a scene more animated than was the picnic ground in the Domain.

There were many events throughout the day which heightened the interest taken in the proceedings. The ordinary foot-races had attraction for tho runners, many persons of inllueuce having offered small prizes—such a3 a silver inkstand, presented by J. A. Tole, Esq., M. 11. R., a pair of trousers, aud other articles—all being of some practical utility. The recent agitation for a carriage road in the Domain may have had something to do in briugiug several carriage people to the ff.U. But"it was whispered at an early hour that his Excellency the Governor would visit the Domain, and shortly afterwards the Native and Defence Minister and other official persons were present. His Excellency and Lady Normanby took a good deal of interest in the demonstration, viewing it from the vindows of Government House, and afterwards appearing on the ground. When it was known that his Excellency wa3 in the Domain, the Native Minister, the Colonial Secretary, Mr. P. Di 2 nan, M.H.R., Mr. J. A. Tole, M.H.R., proceeded to invite him to the ground, and conducted him to the picnic ground, where the sports were literally in full swing. Nothing could have afforded a higher occasion of iuterest to those present. His Excellency was received with the cordiality aud warmth that is never wantiug ou such occasions. He was introduced to Father Fynes and several of tho gentlemen in charge. He expressed himself greatly surprised and highly gratified with the appearance of the children, and the good order that prevailed. The bauds struck up "God Savo the Queen," and several gronps of children continued, the strain. The whole affair was a rery great success. There was really a great crowd of adults, as well as children, in tho Domain towards the afternoon. There were certainly from 3000 to 4000 souls altogether. The order was perfect throughout the day. The children thoroughly enjoyed the pleasures of tho time. There were "swings," "trap," "bat and ball," "rounders,", to suit juvenile tastes. We notice that a number of natives took part iu the procession, and this number was increased at tho Domain by others, and they all appeared to be thoroughly at home with Father Walter, who understands their language well. Ample provision was made for them at the Domain in the way of eatables, both by the above-named clergymen and tho members of the Christian Doctriue Society. At 5 o'clock, the signal was given for the return of the children, and the procession was marshalled in tho same order as at the outgoing—their bands being at tho head of each division, playing " St. Patrick's Day," " Garryowen," and other national airs. The Parnell and Onehnnga schools, under their pastors aud teachers, Father Fynes and Father Paul, divided from tho main body, and proceeded to their respective districts. There was no accident of any kind, and the day throughout was one of unmixed enjoyment for young and old alike.

EAST TAMAKI RACES. It wa3 scarcely expected that the East Tamaki Race 3 thin year would be so successful as they were last year, for there were many causes to operate in the contrary direction. It was well known that Air. J. S. J'ucklaud, the recognised originator of the Tamaki Races, had to a great extent given up his personal interest in the affair. In fact to such an extent did this feeling extend, that to many it became questionable whether the races would or would not take placn until within the last few days. The races did, however, come off, and were well attended. Two of the North Shore Ferry Company's steamers, including the large now one, tho Tongariro, aud the Transit and Ruby, brought passengers from Auckland to the racecourse. The inauspicious morning, which threatened a downpour of rain, and'the subsequent c-ale of wind from the southward, did not offer much inducement for a sea trip ; but in spite of these drawbacks, a large number availed themselves of the opportunity offered, aud the excursionists from Auckland, together with the residents in the adjoining villages and vicinities, made quite a large gathering on the course There was not quite so largo a number of ladies to grace the proceedings as last year. The day turned out much better than was expected from the threatening forenoon. As soon as possible after the arrival of tho Auckland steamers the business of the day began by the " over and under" "three card trick," aud other chevaliers d'industrio erecting their places of business. Soon after this the bell rung out to weigh for the first race. This was tho

Handicap Hurdle Race of 2030v5. ; second horse to save stakes. Two miles, over eight flights of hurdles. Nomination, Isov.; acceptance, lsov. Mr. A. Buckland's r g Mick, aged, lOst. (A. Bucklaml) 1 Mr. R. Thorpe's bl g Magician, aseil, lOjt. "lbs. (J. Thorpe) 2 Betting even. Magician carried 51bs. over, and Mick 21bs. The latter is a roan receutly purchased in the Auckland market, and he did not promise well, but as it \ras uncertain whether or not Magician would jump, there was no certainty. Both started a waiting race to the first hurdlo, which Mick took, and Magician refused. This the latter continued to do with the successive hurdles up to the fourth, when he was pulled by hie rider, Jack Thorpe, off the course. la the meantime, Mick, ridden by A. Buckland, jun., went over erery hurdle, and won without baulking once. Aa may be anticipated

from the surrounding circumstances, the time of the race was especially slow. Maidex Plate, of 15a0v8.; second horse to save stakes. One mile and a. quarter. Weight for age. Entrance, lsov.; acceptance on the course, lsov. For all horses that havo never won an advertised race of the valuo of lasovs. Mr. J. Hunt's ch g SUrerton, 3 years, Sit. lib. (GIU) .. .. 1 Mr. C. B. KdwircTe br c The Biron, 3 years, Bit. lib (UorUin) 2 Mr. .*. BuckUi:d'e r g Hick, aged, Oit. 2H». (D.Taylor) 0 Mr. It Thorpe's b g Tang, t! years, 93t. 21b«. (WillUmi) .. .. .. .. .. .. 0 The betting was 6 to 4 on The Baron, a hot favourite ; 3 to 1 against Mick and Staverton ; and -t to I. against Tang. The start was effectual, and the horses went well away, Mick being slightly in the rear. Shortly after passing the stand, Tang bolted, but the rest kept up a close race to the straight; when, much to the disgust of his backers, the spurt which was supposed to remain in Baroa was not forthcoming, and he was beaten by Staverton, late Cockfighter, by 7 lengths. " St. Patrick's Handicap, of 3030va.; second horse to save stakes. Two miles. Nomination, lsov.; acceptance, lsov. Mr. M. Edgar's b g The Don, a«;ed,Bst. 71bs. JD. Taylor) .. .. .. \. .'. .. '..1 Mr. It. Thorpe's ch. g Golden Crown, aged, 7st 12U>3 (Hudson) 2 Mr. K. Thorpe "a b: g Magician, aged. 9at. 71bs. (Thorpe) Mr. J. A, Campbell's b g Derby, aged, 7st. (Williinii) 0 All started, and, notwithstanding the repeated asjervations of his owner that he wis not fit to win, the Don was the favourite. It is not the first time the horse has deceived hia owner and his backers. Staverton led at the start, with Derby second, after which the field extended, Don retaining a modest position in the rear. Passing the stand on the first round Don put on steam, and assumed first position by a head. He increased his lead, and won by a length, Golden Crown, ridden by Hodson, making a good finish, and Derby, ridden by Williams, which, for a wonder, went round the course without bolting, third. Flyino Stakes, of 20sovs.; second horse to save his stakes ; distauce, J mile ; weight for age; entrance, Isdv.; acceptance on the course, lsov. Mr. Edgar's b g The Don. aged, Oit. lib. (Taylor).. 1 Mr. It. Thorpe's ch g Gulden Crown, agoj, 9jt. lib. (Th.rpe).. .. .. ..2 Mr. MoMurdo's gg Indian Warrior, aged, 9/st. lib., (Wynyan) 3 Mr. yuiiilm's ch g Barney, 5 years, Oit. lib. (Molratii) 0 Mr. Pettr Malonn's b g Hotspur. 3 years, Bst. 31b3. (.roslc-ll) 0 Mr. H. Peataeld'abrcClipstone, 3 years, Bat. 31bs. (Gill) 0 Mr. J. Hunt's ch g Staverton, 3 years, Sat. 3lbs. ICleary) 0 Mr. K. fuurpe'j b R Tung, 6 years, 9st. lib... .. 0 Mr (J. H Edward's br c Tue Uiroo, 3 years, Bst. 31bs. (Ilidioii) 0 The betting was 3 to 1 against Indian Warrior, Don, and Golden Crown ; 4 to 1 against anything else. Indian Warrior waa elightlj in favour; McGue's Luna and Falcon, and Campbell's Derby were scratched. Indian Warrior carried Gibs, over ; Hotspur, 71bs.; and Taug, 3at. lib. over. It was a fine race between Don and Crown, the rest were outpaced. Hack Mace, of —sovs.; winner to be sold for 20sovs. Mr. Quinburn's Uirney 1 Mr. Caujpi-ll's Dirby 2 Mr. Ho.hoil's Vly 0 Mr. Ciiu;ruu's DuA 0 After one false start a good one was effected, aud a good race eusued between the leaders, Barney eventually winning. Co isolation- Race of lOsovs. ; 1 mile. Ciptiin Rye's Indian Warrior, Sst, 71b3 .. ..1 Mr Hunt's r'ly, 7at 0 Mr. Thorpes Aligician, 10it 0 There were only three entries. Thorpe did not elect to seucl Magician, aud there were only two starters. Shortly after the start Fiy's rider tumbled, aud Indian Warrior was letc to tiuish as he liked. This brought the day's races to a conclusion, aud a pleasant steaming match between the four steamers already referred to brought the etcursionisU from Auckland back, to the Queen-street Wharf in good time. ANNIVERSARY BALL. The anniversary ball, under the management of tho shareholders of the St. Patrick's Band, took place in the Lome street Hall, in the evening. There was a large gathering, about S4 couples being ou the floor together. A supper was provided by Mr. McCormick, to the satisfaction of all concerned. Apologies for non-attendance were received from His Worship the Mayor, from Snperintendent Thompson, of the Armed Constabulary force, from Mr. Boylan, Chairman of the Harbour Board, Mr. Uosgrave, and others, and the atteudauco at tho ball fully justified the expectations of tho cominittoe. The members of tho Hibernian baud, under the leadership of Mr. Londegan, supplied music for tho lon<j programme of dances. The music was accurate, and the attention of the Iljorkeeperß diligent, so that, in this respect, there was nothing to desire. Tho programme of dauces was a well-selected one.