OUR HOME LETTER.
The question which in this colony lias during the month excited, the greatest amount of public attention, is that of the education system of the country. While the Provincial form of Government existed, the provinces had charge of education, and there was great diversity over the colony. When the provinces •were abolished, it became necessary to establish a uniform system, and when this was proposed a contest immediately arose on the old question of religious teaching. Victory at length declared for the Secularists, and the Act passed declared that there should be no religious teaching in the hours devoted to training in the secular branches, that the teachers should not be called upon to give any religious instruction, but tluit «it the conclusion of the school duties any clergyman, or any other person, might li.ive the use of the school for the purpose of communicating religious instruction to such children as chose to remain. Lately, streuuous opposition has been raised to the Act. The Roman Catholics have initiated an agitation to obtain aid from the State to denominational schools, and in several of the largest centres of population they are erecting schools for the education of the children of Catholic parents. They contend that it is unjust that they should be made to contribute by taxation to the support of schools which, as being " godless," they can take no advantage of. In all probability, the contest will divide the country into two camps. Catholic orators and Catholic newspapers urge that their fellow- j Churchmen should make it a test question at all the elections, and should "block vote." The effect of these incitements is quite visible in welding all other parties together, and in inducing them to " block vote " against every candidate who is supported by the Catholic party. The result, in our opinion, is not doubtful. The present system will be maintained, but a very irritating contro▼ersy, confusing and embittering all political issues, will distract the country. In Otago, especially, the agitation is complicated by the existence of a feeling amongst a very large portion of the community that the Bible should be read in the public schools. So far as Ministers are concerned, the chief interest this month attaches to the movements of Mr. Sheehan, Minister of Justice and of Native Attains. On the 10th January, Rewi, the famous chief of the Kgatimaniapoto tribe, came with Mr. Sheehan to Kihikihi, a settlement in Waikato, where he resided for many ye irs before the war, and to which he was greatly attached. From the speech which he made there to the European settlers of tho district, it is clear that Rewi accepts the situation forced upon his people by the war. 'l'awhiao, the Maori King, has lately resided at Kawhia, on the west coast, to which place he went with his tribe to catch fish for the meeting to be held in March. He has lately shewn a pacific disposition, by stopping the proceedings of a party of extreme Hauhaus, ■who attempted to prevent the construction of a road between Raglan and Kawhia. After visiting Waikato, Mr. Sheehan went North to Whangarei, where he was banqueted by the settlers, and where he arranged some difficulties which had arisen among tho natives. After concluding his business there he went to the Bay of Islands, where he transacted business connected with his department of Native Affairs. Mr. Sheehan, during the month, spent several days at the Thames, where he was entertained at a banquet. Ho has now gone South to Wellington. On the 10th of January the AttorneyGeneral (Mr. R. Stout) addressed his constituents at Dunedin. He pointed out that several measures of great importance had been passed by the Government last session, and vindicated the action of the Ministry on those points 011 which they have been most assailed.
The Public Works Department has been vigorously conducted under the charge of Mr. Macandrew. The reclamation of part of Auckland harbour, enabling the railway to be brought to Queen-street, is about to he commenced, while the railway is being extended, on the one side between Auckland and Riverliead, where it will connect ■with the Kaipara line, and on the other between Oliaupo and Te Awamutu, which will bring it close up to the boundary of the confiscated land.
The most important fact for the settlers of Waikato, and for the colony, in connection with the native negotiations, was referred to by Mr. Sheehan, at Ivihikihi, when he said, "A stranger would perhaps wonder why we attach so much importance to this small gathering of both races, but we, who know the past history of the colony, and you who went for years with your lives in your hands, know the deep significance of what is now taking place." Those who have always dwelt in absolute security can hardly be made to understand what it is to live from day to day and from night to night in terror, —not knowing but that any night they may be awoke by the shouts of the enemy around their house. Even those who have had experience of actual campaigning can know little of the feeling ; for a body of soldiers can guard against sudden surprise, which a solitary settler cannot do, and in the case of soldiers there is not the terrible aggravation of fear in the presence of helpless women and children. Life spent under conditions of alarm, such as prevailed on the frontier of Waikato for several years, is not worth living, and the wonder is so many endured it. The misery and suffering of the time will never be known. Every little while there was a "scare," with slight foundation, or with no foundation at all, but the terror and alarm were none the less real. Then the labours of the field were deserted, horses and cows were lo3t, women and children were hurried at dead of night over the country to shelter in redoubts. Then, after some weeks, confidence would be restored, and the settlers would return to their farms, to be, after an interval of anxiety, again aroused by an alarm. And it must not be imagined that all these were groundless panics. When the murders of Todd, and Sullivan, and others occurred, it was plain that the natives were enraged at the confiscation of their lands, and thought themselves justified in killing those who occupied them. It was known that Rewi and. Ngatiraaniapoto grieved over the loss of Kihikihi, an d it was thought the settlers there were in especial danger. And probably it was, after all, through the influence of Jtewi that no attack was made. The effect ef repeated panics on the value of property need hardly be referred to. We heard of one case where a gentleman, possessing capital, acquired a considerable farm in the Waikato, and took his family there. Some time after, a panic arose, and for nights they were in such terror that no one undressed, and but little sleep was had. Two or three such experiences, and the gentleman declared that such a life was unendurable; that he would not subject his wife and children to it ; sold out at a loss, and returned to England. No wonder, therefore, that the settlers are rejoiced that such a state of things is past, and cannot return. Their lands have become of immensely more value than before, conveniences of situation and communication have grown up around them, and there is a prospect that shortly the waste land in the interior will be opened up for settlement. They see, too, that Itewi has completely and unreservedly given up all hope of regaining the land he lost by confiscation, A Maori is very loth to come to such, a conclusion, and always clings to the hope that what had been taken by the sword might be regained by the sword. Mr. Sheehan also referred to the circumstance of Eewi visiting the graves of his relatives "who were buried at Kihikihi, and no doubt many sweet and bitter memories must have come over the old warrior as lie sought to identify the spots where his friends lay. At Kihikihi
he lived when Europeans wore but t, name, and when the Maoris around the evening lire told stories of the ships which called occasionally on the const. He lived there also, as ho says, when the Gospel came, when the AVaikatos shewed their practical acceptance of Christianity, by freeing all those whom they held in slavery. This was followed by a halcyon period, whentlieMaoris were religious and industrious, leading to splendid hopes and anticipations that have been since completely shattered. Then it was that the missionaries venturedtogiveanafiirinative answer to the question put in the I Bible as an impossibility, " liath a nation changed their gods which are yet no gods Then came the <var, with the misunderstandings, the errors, and the faults on both sides which led up to it. And now llcwi, against whom we can bring no accusation of cruelty or dishonourable action in war, and who at Orakau shewed one of the most splendid examples of endurance and valour ever seen by British soldiers, comes to his old settlement, finds it covered with the houses of Europeans, and the graves of his kindred undistinguishable from the surrounding soil. True it ia, as said by Mr. Sheehan, that many in New Zealand cannot recognise the magnitude of the change, and how it marks a new era in the history of the Province of Auckland.
It was hardly contemplated before his Honor Mr. Justice Gillies gave judgment recently, in the case of the Queen c. Rennell, that the English law was so defective that one British subject might murder another under circumstances which justice could not reach. Yet the fact is so. The judgment appears to have been drawn up with great care, and it discloses, from first to last, the sense which the learned Judge entertained of the serious nature of the defect which a judicial consideration of the authorities had discovered. The question of the jurisdiction of the Crown over its subjects " outside the realm" has not hitherto presented itself in a similar form to the Courts of law. The circumstances of this shocking case of homicide are such as to invest it with interest for the whole of the colonies of the South Seas, and his Honor's judgment is sure to invite the attention and criticism of the highest judicial authorities, both in the colonies and in England. That the decision is based upon a sound view of the existing state of the law can hardly be denied, but it would have been more satisfactory had the power of the common law been more minutely examined, it is a singularly lucid statement. The consideration its perusal at once suggests is, that the law adviser of the Government in this colony should, without waiting for the meeting of the General Assembly, by virtue solely of liis office, forward, through his Excellency the Governor, this judgment to the Imperial authorities, accompanied by any recommendations of amendment in the law which he might think proper to make. The trade done with these Islands by all the colonies is very large, and the law advisers of the Colonial Governments might be requested to make representations of the urgency of such amendment. The delay that might be occasioned by a reference to the several Colonial Parliaments would probably have an injurious etl'ect upon all trading enterprise to or among the islands of the South Seas. The issue involved is a matter of Imperial concern, and Colonial Governments would, in any case, have to remit their decision for ratification to the Colonial Office in London. All this delay may bo avoided if the law officers in the colonies will act immediately. It cannot be a matter of great difficulty to enlarge the jurisdiction of Colonial Courts, so as to prevent a failure of justice such as we have witnessed. Nothing would be easier than to invest Colonial Governors, by an Act of the Imperial Legislature, with plenary or special powers for the object in view. Whatever may be the form of the amendment that may be proposed or adopted, it is necessary that it should bo speedy. The judgment must have a very depressing effect upon many actually engaged in this Island trade. It is natural it should be so, and it must so continue until men are assured that, as subjects of the Queen of England, their lives are safe in places where there is no other protection for them. There is another way in which this unfortunate defect of the law may be viewed, namely, as having a tendency to give rise to the administration of lynch law. In the present instance, the sailors of Captain Moller's vessel took Rennell prisoner, and delivered him up unharmed to the officers of the law, in order that he might have a fair trial. If they had known that, owing to a legal defect, he could not be tried here at all, tliey would probably have hung him on a tree, and nobody could have said anything to them. Till it is quite understood that offences committed on those islands can be taken cognisance of by the Courts of this country, we are not likely to have any more prisoners brought here, at much expense and trouble ; and as there are a number of Europeans on these islands, we may hear of a good deal of " wild justice."
The recent telegrams from London, which report an easier money market, reviving confidence, and greater firmness in Australian securities, have been hailed with satisfaction in these colonies. Public policy, as well as private enterprise, has in recent times greatly stimulated the transfer of English capital for employment in the more rapid development of colonial resources. In this policy New Zealand has for the last eight years stood conspicuous ; and the whole course and habit of itj commercial and industrial activity has come to be framed upon a rate of progress which can only bo maintained by a continuous influx of fresh capital. A monetary crisis in England, of great andprolongedseverity, necessarilychecked this inflow, and the result has been sufficiently visible in a depressed sliaremarket, checked land sales, restrictions of advances by Banks and Loan Companies, and general uneasiness in commercial circles. That nothing worse has happened is an emphatic testimony to the substantial soundness of New Zealand trade and industry. In the columns of a local contemporary, a letter lately appeared commenting adversely on what was averred to be rhe needlessly large reserves of coin and bullion—somo £1,900,000, according to last returns —held by the Banks in New Zealand. We, on the contrary, are of opinion that these reserves were not unduly large, and that had they been less in amount, the late crisis in England would have been attended by much more serious, not to say disastrous, results here ; and that credit is due to the management of these important institutions for the careful prudence they exercised in this matter. That the local monetary tightness will at once be relieved by the intelligence we have referred to, is not at all probable, but uneasiness will be allayed, as the fear of disaster passes off. It must not be forgotten that the prices of the great export staples of the colony, wool and wheat, are extremely depressed, and that there is no ground for the expectation of any speedy and marked improvement: while in the South the wool clip is reported light, and the crops on the whole hardly up to an average. The effect of these conditions on the Government land revenue is exhibited in the December returns, which reveal a falling off to an extent which approaches temporary collapse. . Not only, therefore, is the stream of | fresh capital arrested, but the normal acI cumulation of capital within the colony is I checked. We press these circumstances on public attention, not to revive uneasiness, but, if it may be, to induce caution in the expenditure of money by borrowers, or in the contraction of obligations by those who have not the certain means of discharging them. Wo observe that a Wellington contemporary, affecting to counsel bankers in regard to the conduct of their business, takes them to task for restricting their advances at a time when " Wellington waa never more prosperous, wholesale merchants full of orders, retail traders fairly busy, while the manufactur-
ing and artisan class hardly knew which way to turn themselves in consequence of the largo amount of work waiting to be y done." Such restriction, our contempo- ( rary would have it, is usually the result , of stagnation of trade, and general de- . prossion, in happy ignorance apparently, : that those conditions are invariably ac- 1 companied by abundance and cheapness of money—as has notoriously been the case in England for the last four years — till some signal display of commercial unsoundness or dishonesty precipitates a panic, during which lenders will not lend, not from want of money, but from want of conQdence. The overflowing prosperity which it appears prevails in Wellington, is largely duo to a lavish expenditure of capital, partly accumulating within, but mainly imported from without ; and, could the supply only bo maintained, all would doubtless go " merry as a marriage bell." But suppose botli the internal and external supply of fresh capital suddenly cut oft", while engagements have been contracted in anticipation of its continuance —what then ? Prudent people lose no timo in adjusting their operations to the altered circumstances : those who refuse to be prudent land themselves in di(licultics ; and in any case the pleasant tide of prosperity soon begins perceptibly to ebb. Our contemporary may rest assured that the Chief Justice is right where he says that " Banks are probably the best judges of their own business.'' Many people forget that bankers are dealers in, not creators of, money ; and persist in expecting that if they happen to need money, and have security to offer, they ought to obtain it, without regard to the material circumstance that the supply of the commodity may not be equal to the demand for it. If only an individual institution restricts its accommodation, the competition of others is keen enough to adjust the difficulty speedily. If all are pursuing tlio same policy, their clients may safely conclude that it is for very adequate reasons, and had better shape their own measures conformably to the necesities of the case. Such restriction is bnt an indication that the expenditure of capital has exoecded the amount available for expenditure, as it is the unavoidable result of that condition of things. Disaster is never produced by such restriction, if | adopted in time ; because competition modifies the effects of any ill-judged individual action. The evil foundations of disaster are laid when tho supply of real capital having failed, a fictitious prosperity is for a timo bolstered up by an equally fictitious capital. We regard ; the prompt action of the Banks and Loan . Companies as fortunate for the colony, ' and have no fear that after a short period of checked prosperity, a fresh start will be taken, and such progress resumed, as tho resources of the country, and tho energy of its population cannot but ensure. Wo believe it is next to a certainty that Mr. P. Oignan, solicitor, will be a candidate for the vacancy in City West caused by the ' elevation of his father to the i.egislative Council. A strong requisition is, we bclifve, being got up to Mr. Diguan. It is probable, however, that there will he a contest, and tho names of several possible candidates have bicn mentioned, amongst others s Mr. Goldie and Mr. Hurat.
In anticipation of the early arrival of Sir Hercules Robinson to assume the Governship of this colony, the Government lias ordered therennovation of the Auckland Government Ilouse. Mr. Halyday has been ordered to execute the requisite work iu the way of uphol-tcry, carpets, &c. Tho building, in respect of to be re furnished. iJilting his visit to the Bay of Islands district, the .Native Minister had an interview with Marsh Brown and his people about a land dispute with a section of natives further south, which has prevented tlu; acquisition of blocks by the Government, and obstructed settlement. Mr. Shcehan bought out Marsh Brown's iutcresfc in tho block, and all matters of dispute were agreed to be referred to him as sole arbiter, the parties to abide his decision. A telegram from Kotorua informs us that the Government Laud Purchase Agents h*w© succeeded in securing an area of from SO,OOO to 100,000 acres in the Taupo district, notwithstanding tho efforts of private speculators to obiain the same lands. By these efforts, however, the Government agent* were compelled to give a greater price than they would ntber\vi*c have done. Mr. John Sperry, the Land Tax Commissioner, has been for some days iu Auckland, as he is visiting the principal statious of his department throughout the colony. The schedules, over which there has been so much perplexity, ought to have been returned by this time. Reports are current about fortunate gentlemen in Auckland who have been the recipients of 200 of these forms, as they happen to be possessed of lands all over the provincial district. These gentlemen, naturally anxious, a 8 good citizeus, to yield to the State all the revenue it can legally claim, will no doubt return full information to the officers of the department. The many friends whom Mr. D. M. Luckie has in Auckland will be glad to hear of his appointment to be Commissioner of Government Insurance and Annuities. Mr. Luckie will, we have no doubt, prove an able, conscientious, and obliging otfiesr. The appointment is creditable to the Ministry who have made it. A telegram was received on January 2S in Auckland from the Minister of Public Works, stating that the lowest tender for the reclamation work at the harbour had been approved of, and it now only remaius to arrange about the securities, when the work will be proceeded with. The lowest tender is, we believe, that of Mr. Dempsey, between £30,000 and £37,000. It has been several times stated that the Government did not really intend going on with the work, but we have no doubt that they will do so at the earliest possible date.
We learn from Hokianga that the land dispute between two tribes of natives, which has existed there for some time past, and iu which To Wake has taken a prominent part, has been virtually settled, —having been referred to arbitration. It will be remembered that Te Wake was concerned in a native row some years ago, and actually shot a maD. Mr. James Mackay got the natives to give him up,—there being an understanding that his life should not be taken. He was sentenced to imprisonment, —either for life, or for a lengthened period, we forget which, but ho soon coutrived to make his escape, and to reach his friends in the far North. A pardon was subsequently procured for him by the interposition of Mr. Sheehan, and he actually came to Auckland, went to the gaol, gave himself up, and obtained the pardon. Te YVake has been behiving lately in a some, what turbulent manner, but all the matters in dispute are now in a fair way of being arranged.
Messrs. Maaefield and Co., ironfouuders, of this city, have just completed a second massive and elegant set of iron palaco gates for the King of Tonga, similar to those which were shipped by the same firm about four months ago. The gateß with their pillars audfixingH were set up in tho foundry-yard on Saturday, when a photograph of them was taken. The gates and pillars are not only massive, but elegant, and enclose an entrance 25 feet in width. Tho grand opening in the centre has a width of 22 feet, and there are two side-pates or wickets. Tho two pillars from which the centre gates aro hung stand 10 feet above the surface of tho ground. They are 20 inches Bquare, cast in four pieces and bolted together, and they are sunk 5 feet in the ground, where they are fixed in massive cast-iron sockets. A handsome moulded cornice surmounts each pillar, and on the top of each there is a shield brilliantly painted and embossed, bearing deßignß and lettering symbolical of Tonga honours. The designs for these, which aro similar on both sides, were carved by Sir. Batts, of Ponsonby. The wicket-gates aro each 3 feet 3 inches in width, suspended on pillars similar to tho others, but Bmaller,—being 12 inches square and 7 feet high. They are surmounted by moulded caps, but, of course, have no corresponding armorial shields. The gates and wickets swing on self-closing rollers of ingenious and simple contrivance, and each gate is litted with a patent-lock. The design of the gates, and their elegant and massive appearance, have an excellent effect, and it ib probable that New Zealand gentlemen may desire similar entrances to their dwellings. Thoy are painted in bronze and green, and they are, in every respect, creditable to the establishment in which they have been manufactured. We may add that Messrs. McArthur and Co. have ordered the gates at the desire of the monarch whose palaae entrance they will ornament,
ECCLESIASTICAL. The question of the appointment of a resident minister for St. David's Presby- | terian Church, Symonds-street, is at length : settled. A meeting of the Church Extension Committee was held on the 27th Jan., at which the Rev. Gliarlcs Dunn, late of Glasgow, whose administrations have proved very acceptablo to the congregation, was appointed to the charge of the church, and regular Sunday services will now be established. The Rev. J. Crump officiated on the 19th January, aud the Rev. A. K--ul in the evening at Pitt-street Wesleyan Church, to large congregations. Tho collection in aid of Conference expenses amounted to £19 2s od. MEETINGS AND AMUSEMENTS. At an interim half-yearly meeting of the Auckland Gas Company, held on 32st January, a dividend of 74 per cent, was declared. On Jan. 27 there wan a meeting of tho Tonic Sol-fa Choral Union, in the Alexandrastreet School-room. Mr F. G. Ewington occupied the chair, and Mr. Blakey, in the absence of Mr. Crauwell, conducted the sioging. The chairman stated that the meeting was a special one, and had been called for the purpose of hearing the Rev. John Crump, who was on a visit to Auckland, deliver an address on the progress of this system of singing in the southern parts of New Zealand. The Rev. J. Crump, on being called upon, related in a lucid and pleasant manner the struggles and triumphs of the Sol faists iu New Zealand, and said that a society was being formed in Christchurch for the purpose of ensuring greater uuity of action amongst all believers in this system. He was followed by Rev. D. McNiecol, of luvcrcargill, who, in a neat speech, detailed his experience in relation to this matter. During the evening several pieces were sung by the members. The success of a new industry is at all times a matter of public interest, oa it is alao n public benefit. We have now the pleasant duty of recording the accession of the Auckland Oil Company to the number of our local dividend-paying concerns. A dividend of ten shillings per share was payable at the company's office, in Queen-street, on Jan. 2S. This represents interest on the paidup capital equal to _G§ per cent, per anaunum for the time the mill has been working, and, although not at all a high rate, may be considered a very satisfactory beginning. We learn that great difficulties have been met with in prosecuting this enterprise —among others the high price of copra during the past fow months, —and, but for tho fortunate circumstance of the company's shipments to London finding an unusually favourable market there, it would not have been possible to declare a dividend. The local demand for oil has uot hitherto been large enough to keep the mill fully employed ; but in this respect matters are improving considerably. A soiree in aid of the Wesleyan Home Missisu fund, and in connrction with the General Conference, was held on Tuesday, the 21st January, iu the school-room of the new church, Pitt street, and a public meet ing afterwards in the church building. There was a very large attendance. The trajs were provided and presided over by the following ladies : —Mesdames Cooke, Blackburn, Henderson, Arthur, Wiseman, Wilson (W. S.), Barnes, Isle, Griffiths, Garty, Randerson, Hosking, Stone, Mis 3 Buddie, Winstoue, Shorlan ; l, Kirk.
The concert in aid of the Merchant Seamen's Orphan Asylum and Belvedere Institution, came off on Jan. 24, on board the English ship May Queen. The vessel was neatly decorated for the occasion—the poop being overspread with an awning, and lighted with Chinese lanterns, served as a cool promenade, while the 'tween decks were made available for dancing. The 'tween decks were very neatly decorated with various flags, which hid the bare sides of the vessel, while the roof was prettily hung with festoons of evergreens, and presented a very pleasing appearance. There could not have been less than 31)0 persons present, and the majority ever aud anon joined iu the dance, music being discoursed bytho Artillery Baud, under Bandmaster Hunter. Instrumental music was relieved at intervals by the vocal efforts of several amateurs, but, on the whole, their success was marred by the space between decks being too low, and hardly Bui'able for singing. The concert pasaed otf very well, and the funds of the two institutions will be considerably augmented by the cntortniiinionfc 1U question, which is entirely duo to the efforts of Captain Tatchell and the officers of the ship, who deserve the thanks of the committees of these institutions for their well-meant efforts.
Tho annual gathering in connection with the Wesleyan Sunday-school Union took place ou .Sunday, January 10, in the Theatre lloyal, which had been engaged for the occasion. There were seven schools represented, viz., Pitt-street, Grafton Road, Ponsonby, Union-street, North Shore, Parnell, and Lome-street, mustering over SCO scholars, while tho attendance of parents and friends swelled the audience to about 1500. The meeting was presided over by tho Rev. J. Crump, ex-President of tho Conference, supported by numerous ministers now in the city attending the sittings of the Conference. The Rev. K. Baviu addressed the scholars in a most spirited manner, and, at the close, spoke a " word in season" to the adults and parents. The scholars at intervals sang a selection of hymns, and, under tho able conductorship of Mr. Uridson, they were rendered with effectiveness. The collection at the close amounted to the handsome sum of £17 0s 3d.
The aunual treat of the Mount Albert Sunday-school was held on Saturday, in the handsome grounds of the superintendent, Mr. J. T. Garlick. Instead of commencing the proceedings in tho morning, and having two meals, it was arranged to commence early in the afternoon, aud have only one meal, and the money thus saved was devoted to the purchase of books and other prizes. The teachers amongst themselves, aided by contributions from personal friends, got up a Christmas-tree, on which £lG's worth of prizes were spread, and these were distributed, cach scholar getting four gifts. They were made up of albums, ornaments, inkstands, chessmen, and other gifts suitable to boys and girls. The proceedings broke up at eight o'clock, vhon all present gave three hearty cheers for Mr. and Mrs. Garlick. There were GO scholars present, Mr. Garlick and the other teachers present were Mr. Fry, Mrs. Garlick, Miss Monk, and Miss Phillips. Towards evening there was a largo attendance of the parents of the children present, and they thoroughly appreciated the pleasures afforded to their little ones.
A most enjoyable day was spent by the teachers and scholars of St. Luke's Presbyterian Sabbath School, Remuera, on Regatta Day. The teachers and scholars, numbering 140, assembled at the church at nine o'clock, and marched thence to the railway-station, when they left by train for Ellerslie Gardenß, to which the proprietor (Mr. Robert Graham) had very kindly given them for admission. A large number of the parents and friends met the children on the grounds and heartily entered into their various games. The provisions wore good and plentiful, and all present enjoyed themselves to their heart's content. They all left Ellerslie by the four o'clock traio, and proceeded to the church, when the presentation of prizes took place. The chair was occupied by tho superintendent (Rev. G-. B. Monro), who presented the scholars with 43 valuable book prizes for proficiency and regular attendance. A hymn was then sung, after which a most interesting presentation took place. The presentation was made to Miss McCrae (who is leaving tho district), and consisted of a beautiful walnut writing-desk and work-box combined, given by the teacher and scholars of St. Luke's Sabbath-school, as a token of esteom and as a slight acknowledgment of her services as harmonist by the Sabbath-schools. A hymn was then sung, and this pleasant gathering was brought to a closo by tho chairman pronouncing the benediction.
Jan. 29th was fixed for the feast of the Sunday-schools connected with the various Nonconformist Churches of Onehunga. It is worth notice that this place is more appreciated by those who come a distance to see t than by those who may walk through it every day. The Onehunga schools which occupied the picnic ground yesterday were : —The Presbyterian School, - C teachers and 50 boys, under Mr. Grant; the Wealeyan Sunday-schools, under Mr. Fleming, having about the same number of teachers and scholars; and the Congregational Sundayschool, under the Rev. Hamer, having about 80 scholars and 8 teachers. Of course, at holi-day-time, there is a tendency in the general public to resort to this place, and they usually find a crowd of Sunday-school children to form the nucleus, round which the pleasures of the day will gather. It was so yesterday. During the day large numbers of the general public flocked to the Domain, and the afternoon was merry with kiss-in-the-ring—a colonial version of hunt-the-slipper,—cricket, trap, bat and ball, j and other eporta too numerous to mention. !
The Wesleyan Conference picnic to the Tamaki on Jan. 29 was a great success, both in point of numbers and. the enjoyment it afforded to the large company who availed themselves of tin opportunity of mixing with the Fathers of the Church. A variety of outdoor amusements of a harmless but invigorating nature were indulged in, while at intervals a choir rendered effectively some choice music appropriate to the occasion. The steamer returned to town shortly before 6 p.m., eveiyone apparently pleased with the few hours spent at the Tamaki Heads. A few evenings ago, the passengers by the James Wishart gave a complimentary dinner to Captain K. S. Burns, when the following testimonial was presented, accompanied by several valuable presents : —"Dear sir,—We, the undersigned passengers by the barque James Wishart, bound from London to Auckland, New Zealand, hereby wish to convey to you our appreciation of the kindness we have received from you during the voyage. Your able management of the ve;sel, and your unremitting attention to duty during the moat terrific gale tha: we experienced iu the Euglish Channel at the out-et of the voyage, convinced us of your capabilities as a seaman, causing us to feel the fullest confidence in your skill and judgment, which confidence we have had every cause
to retain to the end of the passage. Though we may all soon be separated from each other, yet, wherever we may be, our hearts will be united in one earnest desire for your prosperity and happiness, and should we ever meet you again, we will each be ready to offer you the right hand of friendship, and clasp yours a<:ain for ' Auld Lang Syne.' ' Signed by all the passengers. On the arrival of the p.s. Anne Milbank
from War kworth; oil the 21st January, a presentation of a most interesting nature took place to Captain Kasper and Mr. Howard, the provedore i.f the boat, by the members of the Hobson Bind, for their kindness to them on several occasions, particularly when they were left behind at the Hot Springs during the last holidays. Corporal Sheehan, iu the name of the band, presented Captain Kasper with a handsome gold signet ring, which the gallant skipper suitably acknowledged. Corporal McCarthy then presented Mr. Howard, the courteous provedore, with a similar gold riug, which was also suitably acknowledged, the band playing appropriate national airs. Mr. JE. M. Edgcumbe, J.P., was recently presented with an illumiuated address and a purse of 50 guineas, in the presence of the leading townspeople. Captain Turner, iu making the presentation, testified, as a practical engineer, to the far-sighted works undertaken during Mr. Edgecumbe's chairmauship for the last four years of the Town Board. Mr. Edgcumbe replied feelingly, saying the money would be expended in the purchase of a memorial suitable to the dignity of the donors and recipient. Mr. Edgcumbe returns from England in a year. The vessels in harbour and many of the mercantile houses were gay with bunting on January Stb, in honour of marriage of Mr. Edwiu Stone, son of Mr. C. J. Stone, to Miss Gertrude Larkins, daughter of Mr. Fredk. Larkins, of the firm of McArther and Co. The ceremony took place at 1 p.m. at St.
Mary's Church, Parnell. The marriage was solemnized by the Right lie v. Dr. Oowie, Bishop of Auckland, assisted by the Von. Archdeacon Maunsell, in presence of the parents, relatives, and friends of the bride and bridegroom. The following ladies were the bridesmaid", each of whom were presented by Mr. Stone with a handsome necklace : — Misses Emily, Francis, Rose, Florence Larkins, and Misses Mary and Amy Stone. The " groomsman " was Mr. Richard Morrow, attended by Messrs. H. B. Morton, A. Aitkin, J. Marshall, D. Tonka, Master Kussell Larkins. At the conclusion, the numerous circle of relatives and friends who were present offered their congratulations to the bride and bridegroom, amidst which the happy pair were driven away to enjoy the honeymoon.
INQUESTS AND ACCIDENTS. On Boxing Day a bushman named Thomas Patterson, aged about 37 or 3S years, was drowned in the Northern Wairoa under the following circumstauces. It appears that at one time Patterson was employed at the mill, but for some six months or more ho has been empl«3'ed in the bush working for a contractor named Johusou. It is said that Johuson was not able to pay Patterson the wages due him, and this Patterson took to heart when the holid ly season came round. He brooded over the matter, and became melancholy in consequence. He was a single man. On the forenoon of Boxing Day he deliberately walied down the slip at tho To Kopurn mil l , used for launching the boats, and at the fo t knelt down and engaged in prayer. On rising lio went backward, aud rushed down tho slip, and coming to the end, he dived into the river. The tide was flowing rapidly at the time. Those who saw him dive did not observe him rise to tho surface again, and f'jur days afterward his dead body was found about five miles up the river. An inquest was held beforo Mr. T. S. Webb, when a verdict was returned in accordance with the facts of the case.
On Tuesday, the 31st Dec., a very sudden death occurred at Mangawhare, on the Northern Wairoa. The victim was a middleaged man named Low, about 40 years of age. Ho had been resident in that district for a long time, was a married man, with a large family, but some of the family are grown up. lie had been employed at his ordinary work, and went across to the gum-diggers' catrp, and after a few minutes' conversation with some of them, said he would go into one of tho huts and lie down for a few minutes. Ho did so, aud on their visiting the hut in -which he had lain down, they found him dead. Dr. Norton was called in, aud stated that the man had died from apoplexy. The deceased was of a very full habit of body, and freely used beer, but not to excess. Dr. Norton had frequently advised him to live sparingly, to guard against the very circumstance which has occurred.
| A correspondent sends us the particulars of a somewhat unusual ball that took place recently at East Tamaki. Our correspondent says that when he heard the particulars of it ho was forcibly Btruck with tho vigour and heartiness of the entertainment, and he thought the inhabitants of other districts might like to know something of it. The powers of endurance in the ladies and gentlemen who took part in the ball shew what material our settlers are made of. The ball was unique in its way, and was given at a settler's house in the East Tamaki district, when all the leading settlers were present, together with many from the Wairoa, the Thames, and a few from Auckland. Proceedings began about 4 p.m. by croquet, tea at 7, after which the ball opened, and continued, with only intervals for supper and refreshments, till the sun shone on the danceru. Breakfast was served at 7 a.m., and as soon as the tables were cleared away the music struck up again, and the dancers kept at it right through the day, leaving off only for dinner and tea, till the candles were again in requisition. All night long the dance and song went on. Supper again was served, and again the candles yielded to daylight and breakfast stopped the dancers' feet. A game of croquet closed tho ball, which had lasted two nights and nearly two days, aud many of the ladies started off home—a ride of some 15 miles —looking just as fresh and rosy as when they begau. Amongst the dancers was one 3'oung gentleman whose name is not unknown on our racecourse, who had sustained, a galop for two and a-half hours without a rest, to one lady's playing, when both dancer and musician were stopped by the rest of tho company, neither party having given in. An inquisition was held at the Court house, Papakura, on Monday, Gth Jan., before Thomas Jackson, Esq., Coroner, and a jury of twelve, upon the body of Euphemia Brydon, wife of Mr. Robert Brydon, settler at Kirikiri, who died suddenly at her house on the 4th. Tho jury returned a verdict of "Died from disease of the heart." Deceased was well respeetod by all who knew her, and her death has cast a gloom over the neighbourhood.
A very painful case of death, unde very pecsliar circumstances, took place in the hospital at Coromandel, on January sth, which has shaken that little community to its centre. Rumours of foul-play were very rife, which, unfortunately, had a certain foundation in fact, but, like all other rumours, lost nothing in travelling, and which, when medical and other evidence had been taken, proved to have been only rough play, and had nothing whatever to do with the illness and death of deceased. But the Coroner, knowiDg the strong feeling which existed, very wisely telegraphed to Auckland for a medical man of high standing to make a post mortem examination of the body. A jury was empanneled, of whom Mr. A. Silk was chosen foreman, and, having viewed the body, adjourned till evening to take the medical evidenoe and allow Dr. Haines to retarn to Auokland, after which the inquest was again still farther adjourned, to allow a solicitor
to be present on behalf of Mr. Richard Nazer, father of the boy implicated. The . facts of tha case are briefly these. The de- i ceased, Henry James Mitchell, a lad of < 17, was employed by Mr. Buekland, 1 buicher of this place, and on Boxing Day was on tho racecourse with other boys, amongst them Thomas Wells and George N'azer (abrnt 14 years olJ). These two were squabbling together, and _\Y ells called deceased to come and box which he apparently did, striking Nazsr a blow en the chest with his open hand, ana then turned to run away. Nazer followed and made a kick at the deceased, but the deceased turniog suddenly, received the blow in the abdomen. The evidence here is very conflicting. The witnesses, all boy?, were more engaged with the races, andnoneof them appeared to have seen w hat led up to the kick. D.ceased, notwithstanding attention, got steadily worse after the occurrence, and was removed to the hospital. During tho following day he vomited largo quantities of bile, pieces of salmon, raw onions, &c. Death ensued. Dr. Haines, who attended from Auckland, made a post mortem examination, and in his evidence said he examined the body very carefully, and saw no marks of violence upon it. He then opened the abdomen, and found that death was caused by peritonitis, apparently caused by eating large quantities of indigestible food. In cross-examination, he said he examiued the body very carefully, and saw no marks of violence whatever, either inside or outside. If a kick had caused those symptoms, it would undoubtedly have Mt traces discernible by anybody. Dr. Hovell also corroborated Dr. Haines's evidence. After a short deliberation, the jury brought in a verdict of death from peritonitis, in occordance with the medical testimony. On Jan. 26, about noon, a man named John Froggart, a:;ed 22, recently from Newcastle. New .-'outh Wales, was drowned in the Kawakawa River, at a part known as the Derrick. Two other young men were bathing at the time, but not one of the three ciuldswim, and deceaserl,' in walking across the river, dropped into aholo and sank. The alarm was immediately given, and messengers were despatched to the mines for assistance to drag the river. Sergeant Donovau and Constable O'Connor, with a large body of settlers, were quickly on the spot. The body was brought to t he surface by grappling irons at 4 o'clock. Life was extinct.
A very painful case of sudden death occurred on board the s.s. Rotomahanaon 6'th January, shortly after the vessel left wharf on her trip to the Thames. It appears that Mr. J. M. McLaren, the Mining Inspector, with his wife and family, were returning to the Thames after the holidays, aud when the vessel was in the harbour, the infant child suddenly expired. No symptoms of illness, beyond a slight feverishness arising from teethins, had been noticeable, but it is believed the cause of death was an attack of cholera. Although the heat was very great, mother and infant had been exposed to the sun for some time prior to the vessel leaving, and from this fact it was thought probable the child died from a sunstroke.
Mrs. Berryman, the wife of a respectable labouring man residing in Whatawhata, drowned herself on the sth January. It appears that the deceased, about 8 o'clock on Sunday morning, deliberately walked into the Waipa Kiver, apparently with the determination of drowning herself. This was observed by two natives some distance away. They ran at once to the spot and plunged into the river, but were unsuccessful in rescuina her. The body was subsequently draggfd for, but in vain. An old man, named Jhomas Hill, died suddenly on Saturday, Dec. 11th, in the house in which he resided in Morton-street, off Cook street, Freeman's Bay. Shortly before hia death, Hill, who was a soldier iu the 51st Regiment, stated that he was 101 year 3of age, but Mr. Graham, llelieviu" Officer, under whose cam the deceased had been for some time, thinks this a mistake, and that his age is about 95. The old man has been in destitute circumstances for several years, and was in the receipt of rations. He had also been ailing from bronchitis, and ha had been attended by Drs. Dawson and Hooper, who cettifndto the cause of death, and rendered an inqnrst unnecessary. The immediate cause of death, we understand, is serous apoplexy, caused byjsunstroke.
The accident to William Terrell, which occurred some time ago at Onelmnga, as wao aubicipabeil, terminated fatally. He died on Jan. 13, at the District Hospital, to which he had been removed immediately after the accident. Ifc will be recollected that on the 31st of December last Terrell was thrown down the hold of the s.s. Taiaroa, then lying alongside the Onehunga wharf, and sustained severe injuries. It was apparent that his.spine was injured, and he continued to sink up to the time of his decease. An inquest was held at the hospital at which Dr. Chas. F. Goldsbro' presided as coroner. The evidence of Mr. Smith, chief officer of the s.s. Taiaroa, and of Sergeant Greene, in charge of the Ouehunga police-station, and the testimony of Dr. Philson was taken. The medical ttstimony was to the effect that the bones of the neck were fractured, and the jury returned a verdict of " Accidental death."
The Rev. Mr. Carrick, we are sorry to learn, met with rather a severe accident on board the flagship ou January 2S, during regatta. Ho was preparing to leave the vessel; when it gave a lurch, and the rev. gentleman was thrown with great force against part of the ship's gear. Hi 3 head came in contact with a beara, which struck him on the forehead, inflicting a dreadful bruife and nearly stunning him. When he had partially recovered, the bruise was strapped with plaister and bandaged, and on his arrival at the Manse Dr. Stockwell was speedily in attendance. Fortunately the blow will not leave any permanent in jury, but it will take some time to heal, and some weeks must elapse before Mr. Carrick can resume his pastoral duties. His congregation esteem him so highly, and his sermons are so much prized, that all must feel thankful that more sorious injury has not been inflicted.
On Wednesday, Jan. 22, a child abouttwo years of ago, was drowned off Nelson street, through falling into a deep well, the cover of which was defective. The facts as ascertained are as follow :—The child, George Jones, whose age is 20 months, son of Thomas Jones, a labourer, at present working in Northern Wairoa, was playing with an ehler brother and some other children opposite his parents' house, which faces a right-of-way leading off Nelson-street, between Baker-street and Cook-street. In his place there is a well, about 40 feet deep, to supply water to several houses. The covering was rather shaky and decayed, and the hinges were broken. The little child, in running across the covering, broke through it, fud fell into the well. Owing to the present drought, the water in the well was rather low. The mother heard the child fall in, and at once gave the alarm, and several neighbours ran to see -what was the matter. oh 9 of them, named Henry Stockley, was lowered by the rope, and recovered the child. Dr. Hooper was sent for, and promptly attended, but, after an examination, he pronounced life to be extinct.
Constable Naughton, of Helensville, sent to Mr. Superintendent Thomson on the loth January, information respecting the drowning of a man on that day, at the booms, a few miles above Mr. Lamb's Mills. The deceased, James Littlechild, on the morning of the day in question, was on bis way to Itiv-er-head, in company with a person named Hart, and on their arrival at the booms, found the boat oa the opposite side of the river. There are a number of logs here and a chain, and Hart crossed over safely, and was proceeding to fetch the oars, when he heard a scream from the opposite bank, where he had left Littlechild. On looking round he saw deceased's hat floating on the water, but no signß of his body, although he searched around the logs for a long time. Constable Naughton was informed of the circumstance, and ultimately succeeded in dragging up the corpse near where he had fallen in. The body being removed to the Riverhead Hotel, and a jury of settlers attending, the Coroner, Mr. Andrew Bonar, held an inquest, when a verdict of "Accidental drowning" was returned. The deceased was a native of England, about 35 years of age, was a remarkably steady, sober, industrious man, and much respected. He leaves two children and a widow, who may soon again become a mother, to mourn their loss.
Mr. James Dompgoy, son of Mr. Dempsey contractor, suatained rather a severe injury by accident on the 14th January. Master Dempsey was engaged laying off some levels, and the carpenter employed on the works in Albert-street being busy at other work, he undertook to point some pegs which he required with an adze. Whether from want of experience in the use of the tool, or through some accident, the adze slipped off the peg and entered his instep, inflicting a severe wound. Medical assistance was at once procured, end Ije was removed to his home. The wound, as it so happened, is not dangerous.|
An accident happened 16th January, to a ith fata [ re3 tilts . might have been attended Con3tab , o Mc . . only for the prompt a ti<m t been Govern. It appeare neers from the engaged to land some p n Q . Glock [ona, which had arr ' v "' h ; 3 pa 3. from the Inorth. »• portmanteau aengers, he wastryin to beine dark, he Si,r,Z%rqf'V-l» 0 "E tw, t Yih n <s" nf the niles and held oufc hi 3 leg t > of which Pool caught hold, and difficulty the constable managed to S^ h '? on to the wharf, not much tbe worse for his dU Jam£' Hand, a boy two and a-lial£ years Old, son of Sir. Hand of Helensville haft his hand crushed by a kauri log T an uary. The hand was amputated above thewrUtby Dr. Hames. The boy « doing well A boy named Rimmer had one of his ribs broken by a trolly running over him at the same locality. William Henderson, employed by Mr. White in pile-d'iving on the reclaimed land, Queen-street Wharf, met with a nasty cident on Jan. 13, by which he lost three of the fingers of his rightt hand, it appears that the monkey was not striking the pile fairly, and Smith was m the act of placing a yiece of chip to regulata the striker when the monkey dropped, and caught his finders, taking the first three clean off, and the" remainder were amputated at the HosP1 An accident of a very serious character happened on January 16 to a man named Warr, living at East Hamilton, and, at the time, engaged in working on a cutting near Leslie's bridge. It appears that a block of about two tons of earth had been undermined for falling, when it came suddenly away, nearly burying the unfortunate man. Dr. Waddington, fortunately, was returning from Cambridge, and was within a couple of hundred yards of the place at the time, when the sad affair occurred. Warr was dug out, when it was found that one leg was broken at the thigh, and that the knee and kneecap of the other were dislocated. Dr. Waddington did his best for him and has strong hopes of his recovery. An accident occurred on Jan. 11 at the butts at Hamilton—when the Hamilton Contingent of Volunteer Cavalry were competing for the club prizes,—which might have been attended with very serious consequences. One of the cavalry, Mr. James Newell, of Hamilton, was inside the scoring-box, when a splinter of a bullet, rebounding from the target, struck him just below the inner corner of the lower eyolid, catting into the flesh. The splinter was extracted, and there is every reason to believe that the sight will not be affected.
Considerable public interest was manifested on January 22 in the judgment to be given by hi 3 Honor Mr. Justice Gillies. There was a larger attendance of the general pub'ic than usual. The prisoner Rennell was brought up by the Governor of the Gaol, and was allowed to stand at the solicitor's table while judgment was being delivered. Ho manifested considerable anxiety as the judgment proceeded, for some (of the passages indicated a possibly adverse result. SVhen His Honor concluded, he bit his lips hard, as if suddenly relieved from a great mental strain. When he heard that he was discharged, he went to the door of the Court, accompanied by his solicitor, and must have felt acutely the agreeable sensation of having escaped the ordeal of a public trial for a horrible offence, and a possibly ignominious fate.
FIRES. A very unfortunate accident occurred at Mauku on Jan. 2S, which resulted in the total destruction of the house of one of our hard working and iudustiious settlers, Mr. George Cox. Mr. Cox left the house in the morning, leaving everything safe, as he thought—his wife being absent. About 11 o'clock, the house was seen to be in flames by some of the neighbours, but by the time they got there, it was almost reduced to ashes—not an article of any kind was saved. The destruction includes harness, saddles, &c., leaving the family without a thiug besides what they had on, and no insurance to cover the loss, which is great to a struggling settler. The Rev. W. Taylor was promptly on the spot to see what could be done to assist the houseless, and has called a meeting to devise some measure of relief.
EDUCATIONAL. At the meeting of the Board of Education on the 17 th of January, the report of the Executive Committee on the examinations for district scholarships was read, as follows : — cc Your committee have the honour to report on the examina'ion for district scholarships, held in Auckland and the Thames, on the ISfch. 19th, and 20th December: SS candidates attended, GS in Auckland, and 20 at Thames, of these, 15 were girls -12 in Auckland, 3at Thames — who came up to compete for certificates of proficiency. Eleven scholarships were advertised by the Board. Your committee recommend that a scholarship be awarded to each of the boys numbered from 1 to 11, incliiHive, in the list appended, and that a certificate of proficiency be awarded to the boy numbered 12, who obtained half marks or more in each of the prescribed subjects. It will be seen from the accompanying tabular statement that Henry McKellar, school, gained a high number of marks, 535. He cannot be recommended for a scholarship, as he failed to ob'ain half marks in arithmetic. Several candidates, each of whom obtained a fair number of marks, cannot be recommended for certificates of proGciency, as they failed to reach half marks in one or other of the subjects Your committee observe with satisfaction that a larger number of candidates obtaiued a respectable number of marks at this examination than at any previous examination.—(Signed) J. L. Campbell." The list is as follows :— 1, H. Colebrook, 13 years, SSI marks, Wolles-ley-street school ; 2, E. Bowring, 14 years, 506 marks. Wellesley-street School; 3, J. French, 13 years, 539 marks, Mount Albert School ; 4, A. Campbell, 14 years, 549 marks, Ponsonby School; 5, YV. Hendersou, 15 years, 536 marks, Wellesley-street School ; 6, J. Ryburn, 14 years, 536 marks, Wellcsley»street School; 7, J. Palmer, 15 years, 512 marks, Weliesley-street Scht ol; $, R. Ryburn, 12 years, 507 marks, Welles-ley-street School; 9, G. Paul, 13 years, 499 marks, Wellesley-street School; 10, H. Ilockins, 14 years, 475 marks, Wellesleystreet School; 11, J. Christie, 15 years, 475 marks, Kauwaeranga Boys' School; 12, P. Hoskings, 15 years, 473 marks, Mercer School.
LAW. The law vacation has just commenced, and no business of any kind will be transacted in the Courts until after the 10th of March. Indeed, there is hardly any legal business worth detailing since the departure of the last mail, if we except the extraordinary proceedings in the Queen v. Rennell, charged with murdering Captain Moller, which are reported in another column. There was actually no civil business at the last circuit. Whether people are too bußy to go to law, or have become wiser than formerly, it would be difficult to say. Perhaps the result we liavo just intimated is to be ascribed equally to both social conditions. The minor Courts are occupied with small cases, which, however, sometimes present intricate points for decision. These Courts have been little occupied even with minor cases. The Blewden v. Morrin case is conoluded, and nothing remains but the payment of the arbitrator's award and costs, which amount to a good round sum, say £2500. People are beginning to speculate upon an abundant crop of litigation which is likely to arise out ef the new fiscal arrangements under several recent Acts of the Assembly. But time sufficient has not passed to allow these law crop 3 to ripen.
DRAMA. We have had more than the usual allowance of amusements during the present month. At the present writing Miss Amy Sherwin is the idol of the musical public, her operatic recitals drawing large audiences to the Choral Hall. She proceeds by this mail to San Francisco, en route for Italy. The Theatre Royal is occupied by a burlesque company under Mr. J. P. Hydes and H. Simmons. Miss Jenny is'ye, Miss Alice and Miss Amy Johns are the principal lady artistes; Messrs. Alexander, Emmet, and Wilkinson are chief among the male performers. They have been doing a fair share of business. We have had Madame Cora and Val Vose here. They also did a geod business. Hayes and Benhamo's circus was very popular for a time. They are now in the Waikato. Baker and .Farron were announced to appear on Friday, but did not arrive in time. They now occupy the Lomestreet Hall. They also proceed to San Francisco by the mail.
MASONIC. ■ The installation ol the W.M. of th» Lodge of Mark Masons, No. 154 investure of the officers for the twelve months, took place on J an jil 301 "? lodge-room, Princes-street. Brothe' Niccol was the installing master Th • lowing b ethreu sere installed anri f °'- — Brothers \V. J. Rees, W \j . I.P.M. ; J)r. Dawson, S.W. •'piT t. Nel3oi, J. W. ; J. Carlaw, if 1 (-)„ W. P. Moat, S. Overseer; If. ■ J. Overseer; H. O. Wade, P.M. T.-^ osl ', • J. Herbert Burns, P.M., Kei;iatri-^"r '* r > : W. P. Hargjreaves, S. D.; (;eo (y J.D. ; B. Holmes, I.G. ; C. Porter i: The annual installation o'. officer* r-1 r " Ara, 1.C., was held at the Masonic » d S Princes-sl-., on Jan. 6ch, and ivaa , ' 5 with unusual eclat. The attendant - : very large, every lodge in the city'i-*** * represented, as well as several other lei® and the following dignitaries of the 3 were presentßelonging to Lod*» s were Brother Levy, 'W.M.; Brother P.M.; Brother the Rev. L)r. Kidd k r ' lain; Brother S. E. Hughes, P.M.- P. .1'" W. R- Robinson, P.M." The chip; vku were Brothers G. P. Pierce, 11. Wp 1.e.; Brother the Kev. C. M. XeU on ' j, Chaplain, E.G.; Brother Uustson iv 1, 1710, 8.C.; Brother \V. H. Skinner I'u' 1335, E.C.; Brother J. Goodacre V\r' Lodge United Service, I.C. ; Brother T i.' Hewson, K.W.M., St. Andrew's ip Brother F. Roycroft, P.M., United Serri, 1.C.; Brother T. Cole, I. P.M., Led?.-, utemata ; Brother \V. Lodder, D.ij^n- 1 " E.C. ; Brother J. Hatswell, W.M"w 1 mata ; Brother H. Burns, P M rService, I.C. ; Brother F. W.M., Lodge Prince ot Wales, Er°' Brother Leers, D.G. .-upt. of Works Ec' and numerous others. Brother M. MT e installed the newly-electid W._\[ ~ E. W. Page, in a very ioiprcasive after which the following officers -svert in vested by the newly-iustalled Brother M. Levy, J.P.M. ; Brother T v" Durance. S.W. ; Biother I. B. Cro'hpr. I.W. ; Brother W. J. Rees, P.M. Trei' surer; Brother \V. L. Mitchell, P.M.' cr . tary; Rev. Dr. Kidd, P.M., Ch'ap" 4 i n Brother Armstrong, S.D.; Brother We«ter>,' I.D. ; Brother Heather, P.M., Director oi ' Ceremonies ; Brothers Kummer and ji 08 . tague, Stewards; Brother P. M. R eee " ■ Organist ; Brother L. Phillips, ].g. 1 Brother Porter, Tyler. The lodge an'j | officers received the congratulations ot ' the various lodges represented, ani 1 the ledge was then closed formally. - adjournment then took place to the banquet A very choice spread was prepared by J Brother Hood, host of the Masonic Hotel, t' \ which visitors and brethren receded' a cordial invitation, and most of those prtfeat remained.
A meeting was hel l on January 30 the Masonic Hotel, for the purpose of tied, ing officers for the ensuing year, and other business. Brother F. Whitaker, P.G.M. presided. After the tr nsaction of some routine business, the election of officers fo t the ensuing year took price as follows Provincial G. Master, Kr thorF. WhitakerP. D.G. Master, Brother Dr. JohnstonSubstitute Master, Brother Anderson' Senic.r Warden, Brother Brodie; Junior Wardeu, Brother Dewar ; Chaplain, Erother Harvey; Secretary, Brother Tyhr; Treisurer, Brother T. L. Murray ; Senior Deacon Brother Powles; Junior Deacon, Brother Ellison ; Architect, Brother Bwington; Bible, bearer, Brother Whit-son ; Director of Cere, monies, i'rother Colonel Fraser; Sword, bearer, Brother Hendry ; Director of Mnsic, Brother Brett ; President of Stewards, Brother Hitchings; Marshall?, Brothers Dojl« and Wilkinson ; Inner Guard, HrotherSlator Tyler, Brother 'I'. Kawdon. Brother Tyler, ths P. G. Secretary, paid a high eulogium to the ability and d'sinteresttd Strvice3 of Brother Ra .vdon, as P.G. tyler, which was echoed by all the members of the l'-dge.—A letter was read by the secretary (Brother Tyl-r), received from the Westland Lodge of Freemasons, asking the assistance of the P.G. Lodge towards relieving the present necessities of Brother Lazar, as well as to make some provision for him during the remainder of his days, he being now 7G years of age, blind, and incapable of providing for himself and family. After lengthened discussion and expression of sympathy, it was decided that the matter of relief to Brotier Lazar be refcrre 1 to the P.G. Committee, w.th power to act.
FRIENDLY SOCIETIES. The opening of the tirst lodge of the Order of 'Loyal United Friends, under the NewZealand Constitution, took place in the Oddfellows' Hall, Cook-street, on Wednesday, the loth January. Brother S. H. Moulden, G.W.M. under the Euglish Constitution, occupied the chair, and explained the mysteries of the Order, and al-o gave a short address, shewing how much good the Order had done in I'ngland siuce its foundation in the year IS2O. Brother iloulden then administered the obligation to those present, and, in conjunction with othsr officers, formally dedicated the lodge-room. The following Friends were then elected and installed as office-bearers for the ensuing 12 months : —James Cox, W.M. ; George Warburton, D.M. ; J. Bakewell, P.W.M.; Neil Mackay, S. P. M. ; Frederick Christmas, W. Secretary; C. Chappell, G.W.T.; William l)o3'le, G. :> S ; Chailes Hannkin, J.S. ; William .Niddiie, G.L.A. ; John Macquillan, G.O U.; Kueben Dell, 0.T.; Martin Hannkin, organist. A hearty vote of thauks was accorded to G.W.M. Brother Mouldeu for the able and efficient manner in which he had c inducted the ceremony of dedication, installation, and instituting of the Order in New Zealand.
The installation of officers of the Loyal Star of Aucklaud Lodge, 1.0.0. F., A.C., took place on 10th of January, at the Lodge Koom, Insucauce Buildings. The impressive ceremony was conducted by the deputy officers of the Right Worthy Grand Lodge, in the presence of a large attendance of the members, in a most satisfactory manner. I'he following the list of officers for the term:—N.G., Brother J. R. Davidson; \.G., Brother J. Gnest; Treasurer, Brother Butler; Secretary, Brother H. J. Ellis; Recording Secretary, Brother T. Thompson ; Warden, Brother E. R. Piggott; Conductor, Brother Power ; Chaplain, Brother S. H. Matthews ; Organist, Brother J. Howden; R.S.N.G., Brother Dr. Lee; L.S.N.G., Brother Faulkner; R.S.V.G,, Brother Stanyier; L.S.V.G., Brother Hill; 1.G., Brother McCulsky; 0.G., Brother Humphries.
The weekly meeting of the L<»val Star of Auckland Lodge, No. 26, 1.0.b.F., A.C., was held in the lodge-room, >'ew Zealand Insurance Building, on Friday, .January 17, at 7.30 p.m. In consequence of ;iie illness of the N.G. (Brother Davidson), Brother John Hughes officiated as X G., assisted by S.P.G. Brother Patterson and V.G. Brother Guest, and impressively initiated seven new members. The acting N.G. declared a recess of 15 minutes, during which time* greetings -were exchanged with the newlyinitiated and visiting brethren. AmoDg the visitors were three from America on their travels per City of Sydney : Brothers Beney, of Lodge Reliance. Ontario; Wilson, of Lodge Ophir, £ao Francisco; and May, of Lodge Munro, Brockport, New York. After the recess, Brother J. Butler was installed as treasurer. Brother Beney, on behalf of the visiting brethren, thanked the lodge for the hearty reception they had received, and expressed himself much pleased by the appearance and working of the lodge. Brother T. Burham officiated as organist.
The members of the Good Intent Lodge, 1.0.0. F., held their annual picnic on Jan. 29, and proceeded to the Ivawau in the s.ff. lona. The affair was highly successful in every respect, not fewer than 270 persons being present. Sir George Grey kindly threw open his house and grounds to the visitors, and those who were indisposed to enjoy the magnificent gardens or a ramble over the island were accommodated with music on the lawn, where Lonergan's Quadrille Band discoursed efficiently to the lovers of the mazy dance. The steamer reached town about 3.45 p.m. A quadrille party was held in the Cook-street Hall at D o'clock. About 150 couples were present, who sustained the pleasures of the ball-room early honr in the morning.
GOOD TEMPLARISM, &c. The regular quarterly meeting of the Star of Freedom Lodge, 1.0. F.T., was held in the Oddfellows' Hall, Cook-street, on Tuesday, the 7th January, when the following officers were installed by Brother W. L. Neddrie, P.W.C.T., assisted by Sister E. Smith, as G.M., viz.:-Brother G. Warburton, W.C.T. ; Brother W. Donaldson, W. V .T. ; Brother George Warburton, jnn., W.S. ; Brother J. W. Hunt, W.F.S.; Brother D. Herly, W.T.; Brother T. Cox, W.1.G.; Brother W. Sandles, W.0.G.; Brother Edwin Veith, W.A.S.; Brother Niddrie, P. W.C.T. ; Sister E. tfiddne, W.M.; Sister A. Niddrie, W.D.M.; Suter E. Smith, W.R.H.S.; Sister E. Freeman, W.L.H.S.
OBITUARY. It is with sincere regret that we have t • inuounce the sudden death of Mr. James Watt, of JS'apii". Mr. Watt has been a rather prominent figure in New Zealand f(.r some time, not only as an old and respected settler, but in racin» cir.-lr>« ns a bie-d.-r ami competitor. Mr. James Watt was an old resident in New Zealand, but wa- mure identified with the province of Hawkc's Bay than that of Auckland, although he was the owner of 1 splendid property near Ivohimarama, on "which ho first started a racing stud. Mr Watt was a partner in the firm of Watt Brothers, Napier, as general merchants and stock and station agents until recently. He ivas tbe owner of a very large landed estate, and accredited to be one of the most wealthy men in New Zealand. For some time past, a breeder, trainer, and racer, he has devoted his attention to the turf, but in this enterprise he has only been fairly successful. The chief ornaments o *j- f l j 3 stable at the time of his death were Lady Elizibeth, a three-year-old iilly, which ran at the A.J.C. Summer Meeting/and the horse Repudiator. Mr. Watt was also the breeder of the grand horse Lou"lauds, which was called after his station, outside the town of Napier. Mr. Watt was of a robust habit, but delicate health. Five years ago he visited Scotland, aud m Dundee he married his present wife, by whom he has two clii'dren. Mr. Watt •.va3 well known in the northern portion of the colony, and at one time was a diri ctor of the Bank of New Zealand, during a short residence in Auckland. The following telegram, from the t'ress Association, is dated Napier, January 20:--" The funeral of Mr. Watt was very largely attended. All the principal people in the place took part iu it. Mr. Watt was ono of t'uc earliest merchants in this place, carrying on very extensive business at the -Spit, iu partership with his brother, under the stylo of Watt Bros. He wa3 a liberal-handed nnn, and one who-e name Ims for years been prominent in this district. Mr. Watt's death, which took place at Longhands on Saturday afternoon, was very sudden, the causo b. iiu disease of the heart. Ho was in Napier on Friday, and attended that (lay a meeting rf the B..ard of Directors of the Napier" Gas Company, being then, to all appearances, quite in g"od h< alth. He went nut to L"i glands by the afternoon train on Friday, and shewed no symptoms of his end being so near until the following day. J[e i ba.t arranged on Friday night to go out next ' morning to Obrig ah.ng with his friend and ! partner, Mr. K. Farmer, lut when the ap 1 hoar arrive.!, Mr. Watt, not feeling 1 very will, remained iu the house. Mr. I Farmer returned to Longlands at about !
o'clock in the afternoon, and found Mr. Vr'afct violently retelling. Mr. Farmer procured him some tea, aud then assisted him to bed, where, at u p.m., he breathed his last, saving to his friend who supported him, 'It's all over.' The body was brought .iowu vost«.rday to Mr. Watt's house in Napisr. ile will be mourned by a wry v :de circle of relatives and friends, and by a very largo number who have long held him esteem for the generosity of his nature am! his many other good qualities/' We regret to have to record the death of Mr. Wiiham Henry Killing, which occurred at 0 o'clock on the sth Jan., at the early a*e of 51 years. Mr. K:*-sling was a solicitor :iud barrister, practising m this city, so that a career that gave promise of great success and prosp-.rity has been suddenly cut o£f. For some time past it was known that his health was precarious, aud more than a week a,;o he \yas pronounced by his medical attendant ; > he in a state which afforded but scant hope of his recovery. But he rallied ; for a day or two, aud the hope of his resioration to health revived for a while. Th*i illness to which Mr. Kissling has succumbed was a r-. lapse from a previous sickness occasioned by a premature return to business. Parnell could not lose a resident who was highly t-stcemed. His frank manners, his prrs-.-nal affability, his kindness as a neighbour, and his unfading alacrity 7 to render service to others, obtained for him a
reeling akin to affectionate regard from those who knew him well. Mr. Kissling was the ncth son of the late Archdeacon Kissling. He was a Dative of the coljuy, and until his recent illness was likely to till a prominent place in public lire. Ho leaves a widow and iwo children to mourn his loss. The remains of Mr. Kissling wf're buried next day in St. Stephen's Churchyard, Taurarua (Judge's Bay), the attendance being one of the largest assemblages we have seen on any similar occasion. Mr. Kis-ling, it will be remembered, was for a long time a memher of the Harbour Board, for some time of the County Council of Eden, and had he his ability and influence might have elevated him even to a higher representative capacity. He was also a member of the Masonic Craft, and the brotherhood had announced their intention to attend the funeral by the following order : —"District Grand Lodge, E.C. —The officers of the District Grand Lodge and the brethren of the various lodges of this constitution are hereby summoned to attend the funeral of our late brother, W. H. Kissling, District Grand .Registrar and P.M. of the Prince of Wales Lodge, N>. 1333." The Freemasons in regalia (covered with crape), assembled at the Alexandra Hotel at 4 o'clock, and walked in from that place to the late residence of the deceased. Meauwhile, the members of the several public bodies wore assembling iu carriages in front of the house. The chairman and members of the Harbour Board were present in a body, without a single excej)tion. The legal profession rnp.y be said to have been represented by Mr. Whitaker, Mr. Hesketb, Mr. MacCormick, Mr. Mackechnie, Mr. H. H. husk, although there were several other members of the Bar present in carriages. Messrs. Buchanan, Hay. and other members of the City Council were also at the funeral. The funeral cortege, as it passed down Avenue > Road was of a most striking and solemn character. '1 lis chief mourners were Mr. Schwartz Kissling. Mr. Theophilus Kissling, Mr. | Fredeiick Kissling, and Colonel Haul tain. I The Masonic brethren paid espec*al honour ' to the deceased brother, an office-holder in j the District Grand Lodge of England, by ; mastering in very large force, about 150 i being present in the procession, although J numbers must have attended at great per- j 30cal inconvenience. The District Grand Lodge was opened by Brother Lodder, S.W., j in the absence of Brother Graham, D.G.M., and Brother Wildinan, D.D.G.M. be- | half of his Masonic brethren, Brothers Dawson and Skinner, of his own Constitution, Brother G. P. Pierce, P.G.M., Irish Constitution; and Brother M. Niccol, as representing the Scotch Constitution, acted with Messrs. E. Hea*keth an I ■L Alexander, solicitors, a3 pall-bearers. The hearse wa3 met at the churchyard by the Right Rev. the Bishop of the Diocese, the Venerable Archdeacon Maunsell, and the Kcv. C. M. Nelson, in his capacity of Masonic Chaplain. The body waa carried to it-5 last resting-place. Archdeacon Maunsell read the impressive funeral service prescribed by the Church of England. The Rev. C M. Nelson read the Masonic form of prayer, and the coffin was lowered into tho grave. A correspondent residing at Te Arai supplie3 the following particulars regarding tho late Ml'. .John H. Penman :—This district has sustained a severe loss in the recent death of Mr. John H. Penman, of Bushside Sawmills, which took place on evening of 13th lan. The early part of the day had been wet and foggy, and Mr. Penman's workmen considering that a day's work could not be done on account of the weather, did not come to the milL The afternoon, however, was much finer, and Mr. Penman, with the assistance of his son James, a boy about I*4 years old. cut up a quantity of timber. To all appparance, the day's work would have bfcf'U finished in a few minutes, but, in- j stead of this, the life's work was suddenly ; closed. The last slice of the flitch of timber which was being sawn overbalanced from the boy's hold, was caught by the circular-saw, a nd launched forward with great velocity, striking Mr. Penman on the right side and arm. The blow paralyzed, but did not render him unconscious. Mrs. Penman was at baud a'most immediately, and the eon went -for assistance. Mr. \V. B. Farrand and Mr. H. Shepherd were the first to arrive, but Mr. l J tuujau had died peacefully in his wife's arms, withiu half-an-hour of the accident. He spoke of his life assurance policy, and a few minor items of business, and expressed his hope and trust that his wife and iiimsef would iceet in heaven. An inquest was held the next day, before Mr. J. Kyan, coroner of the district, _ at which the Jew 'acts iu connection with the accident were soon elicited. The funeral took place \\ eduesday, at the Arai cemetery, and * large number of friends assembled from Kaiwaka, Mangawai, and Albertland, as as the immediate neighbourhood, to their last mark of respect to their deceased brother. In accordance with PresJteriau a short service was held the procession left the house, after* tho p n c kurch, and at .the grave*side » f e *; n glish burial service was read by 1, r * *l*seldeo, and both he and many of ® assembled mourners appeared deeply to
feel the solemnity of the occasion. Mr. Penman was well known in Ancl;\u.<l and at the Thame? He bad labour"! f. r \cais na a preach* r of the Gospel, under tin- direction «>f the Auckland Presbytery, aixl enducted Dirit.c service regularly at M'.iipn, Kaiwaka, Hakarn, and To Arai. The Preßbytery now loses a faithful servant, and the Church an earnest preacher, and a void will long be felt m the hearts of many of his friends and fellow-settlers. Mr. Penman was 52 years old at the time of his death ; was born at Oxeuharo, in the County of Roxbugh ; was apprenticed as engineer to I Messrs. K. Stephenson and Co., Newcastle I on Tyne ; was in connection with the Gospel Diffusion Church in that city, and an esteemed local preacher therein. Ho arrived in Auckland in the Blue Jacket, March, ISGO, and after several years'work as engineer in different parts of the province, he finally became proprietor of a kauri bush and saw-mill in this neighbourhood, where hehas resided for over twelve years. It is with rpgrefc that we have to rccord the suddei*death at 3.30 am. on Jan. 27, of a young gentleman from sunstroke, whoa few hours previously was in the enjoyment of good health. Mr. "Robt. C. Grant, the purser of the Union Co.'s s.s. Taupo, took a drive out on Sunday, Jan, 2G, as far as
Ooehungn with Mr. Garrard, chief officer, and Mr. McQueen, the chief engineer of the steamer. The day was very warm, and the deceased on several occasions made a remark to his friends to this effect, hut nothing beyond. The company returned to the steamer, and sat down to tea at G p.m., and shortly afterward the deceased, Mr. Grant, went on deck 1o enjoy the brerze th*n prevailing. He shortly aft rward complained of severe pains in his head, and commenced to vomit, and as these symptoms gradually increased iu intensity, he was put to bed and Dr. Dawson sent for. The medical gentloman arrived about 9 p.m , and prescribed for the deceased, and left him in charge of Charles Hell, the watchman on board, who wis formerly a warder in a hospital. Towards midnight Bell reported to Captain Croma»ty that his patient was reaching violently. This, however, shortly ceased, and Mr. Grmt appeared to he suffering less pain. About 2 a m. he was seized again with pain?, and aa these were more intense, Mr. Garrard proceeded for Dr. Hooper, but before that gentleman arrived Mr. Grant expired, the medical gentleman giving it as his opinion that Mr. Grant died from the effects of sun- | stroke. The deceased was a native of Scotland, and, so far as can be ascertained, had no friends in the colony. He has been in the employ of the Union Company's service since its format-ion, and was a general favourite with the travelling public and his employers. The funeral took place in the afternoon, at the Presbyterian cemetery, the Rev. Mr. C.-irrick oiliciating. Oap'aina Cromarty, Nc-iring, Petersen, and Tatcnell act n d as pill-hearere, Mr. Vou der Heyde represented the Union Shipping Company, and in the train of follower.-? were many of the | masters of vessels iu port. Throughout the j day the shipping had their Hags at half. ! mast. We have to record the death of Mr. Edward Kich, an old settler, who has resided some forty years in Auckland, and who died somewhat suddenly at his r«sidence ou 27th January, of apoplexy. He had been on that day iu his usual health, though somewhat inHrrn, owing to his advanced age. About G o'clock iu the eveuiug he took a /It, and Dr. Macdonahl was sent for, but medical aid was unavailing, and he expired at 10 o'clock. We have to record the death of Mrs. Ridings, relict of the late Richard Ridings, of Symonds-street. This lady was one of the most active members of the Ladies' Benevolent Society, and ber name was for manv years associated with charitable works in and around the city of Auckland.
Many of our Northern settlers, especially ia the Couii.y of Maugonui, will regret to learn of the death of Mr. William Maxwell, who f«.r more than 40 years had been an active colonist, aud was highly respected by both Europeans and natives.
On the Gth December, Mr. W. Aitken received a telegram from London informing him that Mr. J. X. Crombie, formerly photographer in Auckland, had died in Melbourne, ou his way to Aucklaud. In a j letter dated at Melbourne on December 11, Mr. Crumble had informed Mr. Aitken that | he would leave Melbourne so as to catch the I mail steamer leaving Sydney for Auckland lon January 2. Mr. Crombie had been complainiug of bronchitis for some six i r.r seven months and he adds to his letter, "still very wheezy." He must have become worse shortly after writing the letter, and probably was dead before the time came to leave for Sydney. Mr. Crombie came out to Melbourne at the time of the gold discoveries in 1552, and not finding employment at his trade of a practical engineer, lie went as assistant to a photographer, with whom he learned the business. In about two years afterwards, he came to New Zealand, and commenced business as a photographer in Nelson. He removed to Auckland about sixteen years ago, aud opened in Shortland Crescent. In 1564, he went to England, and while he was absent his place waa burned. On his return, he erected premises in Q ucen-street, where he continued for several years. Having been successful in mining speculations, he purchased a considerable quantity of property in Auckland, aud retired from business. Foe the last six years he has resided at Sydenham, near London. Having becomc afflicted with bronchitis, he determined on a trip to New Zealand, which he was destined never to see again. Mr. Crombie was about 4S years of age ; lie leaves a widow and five children.
PROFESSION OF SISTERS OF MERCY. On* the Cth January, at St. Mary's Convent, Ponsonby, the impressive ceremony of Religious Profession was made, before the Very Rev. 11. J. Fynes, Vicar-General, assisted by T the Revs. W. McDonald, O'Dwyer, and O'Hara, by the following six young ladies :—Miss Annie Camerford (iu religion, Sister Mary Barbara Joseph) ; Miss Mary Redmond (in religion, Sister Mary Vincent Joseph) ; Miss Eliza McDermott (in religion, Sister Mary Alacoque) ; Miss Catherine Bolger (in religion, lister Mary Alphonse Joseph); Miss Kathleen AnnieCurtis (in religion. Sister Mary Ursula Joseph) • Miss Eliza Regan (in religion, Sister Agatha). The proceeding- 3 , which lasted for three hours, and were throughout of a very solemn and impressive character, commenced at half-past ten, and consisted principally of the blessing of the black veils and rings, the saying of the mass of the Holy Ghost, and the making of the act of profession by thu six novices. Immediately after the rings, were blessed an 1 the Gospel suug the Very 1-ev. H. J. Fynes delivered an eloquent sermon upon the religious state, dwelling upon the high aim of those who embrace such a state, which imitated, he said, so closely, the example of the life of Jesus Christ, and also followed his teaching. There was nothing which non-Catholics say against Catholicism, he thought, so undeserved and unscriptural as their objections against the religious life, and after extolling its many virtues, and freedom from so many temptations to which people in the " world" are exposed, he warned those who were now about to embrace the religious life, that, after all, they would not be free from some trials and temptations to sin, remembering that sin entered even Heaven itself as well as the Garden of Edea, and that it made one of the firstreligioussocicty anapostateand a traitor. He then exhorted those who did not believe they had a 11 vocation " not to enter the religious state, or if they preferred, to defer doing so until some other occasion. After interrogating each on this point, the solemn mass of the Holy Ghost was said, and after the priest's communion, and in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, the act of profession wa3 made, after which each of the novices received Holy Communion, then the white veils were removed aud the black ones given, which concluded the ceremony. The friends and relations of the young ladies were then treated to an excellent ddjeuner.
The largest single stamp as yet printed in New Zealand was shewn to us on Dec. 18. Its value is £7305. It was printed specially to affix to the probate in Captain Iteid's estate, the above amount being the stamp duty assessed upon it. Captain Reid's property was estimated at under £100,000, but the Government, not being satisfied with the valuation, Mr. T. Cotter, thepresent Deputycommissioner of Stamps, went to Gisborno to investigate matters. "I he result of his visit was an increase in tho value to nearly £150,000, at which amount the estate was passed. Captain Reid came to New Zealaud as cook in one of the sailing vessels, and subsequently settled in Poverty Bay, at which place, in consequence of the influence he had obtained, he received the appellation of " King of Poverty Bay." His success shews to what positions of affluence colonists may attain by energy and perseverance.
THE. ANNUAL REGATTA. Tub Annual Regatta took place on the 29th of January. We Bubjoin an outline of tbo day's sports :— Patron—His Excdtency tbfi Governor. Vio-'-Patrj-n — ilia Worship he Uayor. i'r«ni<lent-Cliiirwan Auckland Harbour Board, Vice-Pr- indent —T. ileiideraon, Kkj., sen. Treisurer—Mr. T. Henderson, juQ. Hon. Secretary - Mr. E. W. Burgess. Starter—CapUin J. Neariug. Umpire—Mr. J. Marshall. Chairman —Mr. u. Von der Heyde. Committee—Messrs J Nc.fctin£, T. Henderson, jun., C. B. Stone, T. XJrcoJ, J. Mtrshall. U. y, Anderson, M. Gnllngher, J. Stodart, \V. it. Stodart. I>. Gouk, D Oxley, J. B. Graham, G. Von der I Heyde, J. Dacre. E. VV. Burgess.
Tliia annual evcut took place aa above, and, :is we anticipated, it eclipsed in every way all similarj'clcx since their inauguration. The necessary conditions to this success ■ycro present, glorious sailing weather, liberal prize money, numerous entries, and, above all, esfecially in the eyea of the ladies, a magnificent and well appointed llagship, with a genial captain and courj teous oliieers, ever ready to ensure the comfort of those who were fortunate in spending a few hours on board the steamer. As the morning broke it was evident that a south-west breczo would prevail throughout the clay, and though it slightly moderated with the ebb-tide, yet it never fell off to make the finishes of the sailing races monotonous. On the contrary, in many instances these were exciting, especially in the Champion Kace. This event, of course, was the great attraction, inasmuch as the two crack schooners, which won the Southern regattas of IS7S and 1879, were pi' sent, for tho fir3t time, aud met each other to settle the mooted point of which had a risjht to be styied tho champion schooner of New Zealand. Kach had its friends, but, if anything, the Transit was slightly the favourite for places, and that geueral opinion was correct is evident, as she beat the Torea by three minutes, after one of the stoutest race 3 ever sailed iu Neiv Z .aland. We regret, however, to state that
it is just possible that neither of the two crack schooners will take first honors, as the ketch Adah, which was closc upou •20 minutes behind the Tian-it, will win the race on time allowance. Tho • •pen Sailing Race, for all comers, was of great interest, as Mr. Bailey's boat Toy, that gained such high honours in the youth, was among the competitors, and it was surmised that she would liud her match here. Owing to an accident, however, she was early out of the struggle j but, a3 several protests have been entered, the race will probably be sailed over again. The Four, oared Ontirggcr Race did not take place, as otic of the boats filled with water, and the three then returned to the shed. It is questionable whether it will come off, as it is only a made-up race, as tiie Mercury would rim away from her opponents without an effort. The Dingy Kace fell through, as there wore only two eutries. Iu point of numbers the regatta was witnessed by moi o spectators than usual, the two wharves being crowded, and it is estimated that about 1000 persons visited (lie flagship during the day. One great innovation ou board wc were glad to iotics was the presence of the City Ba id, under Conductor Impey, and the muaio they discussed from time to time was the theme of much commendation. The City of Sydney was dressed gaily with flags," aud presented a beautiful appearance, while the whole of the vessel was thrown open to the visitors, who were not backward in exploring the various compartments of tho noble steamer, under the guidance of one or more of the officers. Captain Dearborne did the honours of his vessel in a most courteous and hospitable manner. The committee are under obligations to that gentleman, and Mr. Sloane (chief officer), and Mr. Brewster (purser), for the manner iu which they seconded the efforts of the committee in bringing the
affair to a successful is-uc. The catering was by Mr. Burton, and under the superintendence of Mr. \V. D. Dallou, his manager, au excellent luncheon was laid out, of which about 400 persons partook. Tho whole of the arrangements ou board were carried out efficiently, aud we are sure that the committee, &c., are deserving of the thanks of the community for bringing to such a successful termination the Regatta of IS7O, which, it mu9t be admitted, was the best that ever took place on the waters of the Waitemata. At the close of the races the committee met in the social hall of the steamer, aud in a bumper of champagne the healths of Captain Dearborne aud the officers of the good steamer City of Sydney were drunk, to which the worthy captain responded.
Champion* Race (brigantines, schooners, and ketches), 25 tons register and upwards. Prizes : Ist prize, £100, and chronometer value 30 guineas, presented by Air. J. Marshall (chronometer to go to registered master of winning vessel) ; 2nd prize, £30. Course: From south side of flagship through Rangitoto Channel, round Tiritiri j (outside Shag Rock), back through Rangitoto Channel to south side of flagship, j Eight started : Reward, Albatross, Adah, 1 Torea, Madona, Trausit, Myrtle, yea Breeze. A splendid start-. All got under way in first-class style, Reward leading, and in passing North Head was one minute ahead, followed closely by Albatross, Transit, Myrtle, and Torea, aud Adah and Madona close in the rear, —tho four after the Reward almost eclipsing each other, and giving the appearauce of one large vessel. At 10.30 a,m. the Reef was passed in the following order: —Reward, Albatros*, Transit, Myrtle, Torea, Madona, Adah, and Sea Breez*?. The first to shew rouud the North Head was tho schooner Transit, which put in appearance two minutes
ahead of the Torea; Adah next, about 15 minutes astern of the last vessel ; followed byAlbatross, Regard, and Myrtle. In beating up the harbour it was a grand sight, and the probable winners were difficult to pick, and the interest in this champion race was m'.st exciting. As each stretched across the harbour the general opinion was that the Torea was gainingon the leading schooner, Transit, many seamen thinking that Captain Hooper would have been better without the raffe, or square topsail, as she did not look so close at the wind as the Torea. The last two boards were very close between the two leading vessels, and it was anybody's race apparently, but the Transit tacked under the stern of the flagship and came in the leading boat, throe minutes ahead of the Torea. The ketch Adab, a small vessel, was, however,
not out of it, although some distance astern, and it was touch-and-go for first place on the allowance. On the last tack of the ketch she made an awful mess. The captain apparently undecided where to finish, she lost nearly one minute, therefore making the finish so close that it cannot be decided as to the winner until the ships' registers are produced. It is expected that the Adah has to receive 20min. oOsec. from the Transit, and if so, the ketch is the winner, being only about 19min. 54sec. behind. The committee, however, will examine the registers of the Transit and Adah, and then decide, and in the meantime we give the places as they came in : — 11. M. S. Transit, schooncr, 79 tons, S.Jagger 5 32 25 1 Torea, schooner, 78 tons, E. Mitchelson 5 35 25 2 Adah, ketch, 29 tons, W. Jones ... 5 52 10 3 Reward, schooner, 41 tons, J. and D. Oxley ... ... ... ... 0 3 45 4 Albatross, schooner, 77 tons, C. A. Harris ... ... 0 4 41 0 Myrtle, brigantine, IG7 tons, S. Lane 0 Tuadiko Cutters, 25 tons register and upwards. Prizes: Ist, cup, value £25, or money (presented by Mr. Stewart, Thameß Hotel), and £15 added; 2nd, £20; 3rd, £10. Course : Same as first race. Eight started : Leo, Lizzie, Gigsy, Rangatira. Three Brothers, Fanny, Sovereigu of the Seas, Start. The cutters got away well together, with the exception of the Leo, which was anchored under the lee of the flagship, and was detained for about two minutes. Down the harbour they were in a cluster, and the two white ones, Lizzie and Fanny, got round the Head first, four or five lengths ahead of the Sovereign of the Seas. About, the same distance behind came the second lot -Gipsy, Leo, and Rangatira, who went round as one vessel, the nearest hull only to be seen,—tho lot appearing as a three-masted schooner. Several lengths behind them came the Start and Three Brothers. Around Tiri the following were the positions—Fanny, Leo, Lizzie, and Sovereign. Tho Fanny was first back at the North Head, followed by the Sovereigu of the Seas, and in this way they came up the harbour, with the favourite (Rangatiru) a long way behind; the Fannie winning easily. ii. jr. s. Fannie, 39 tons, C. A. Harris ... 5 5G 12 1 Sovereign of the Seas, 29 tons, James Stephens ... 0 5 53 2 Rangatira, 27 tons, Tenetahi ... 6 15 42 3 Lizzie, 39 tons, O. A. Harris ... 6 21 19 4 Leo, 32 tons, J. Oxley 0 21 53 5 Sailing Boats or Yachts (decked or halfdecked), under G tons, —Prizes : Ist, £10;
2nd, £5. Course: From aonth Bi(le of Flagship round boat off Watchman, thence round ch'qnered (Kough Rock) buoy in Kaugitoto Channel, twice round, coming in on south side of flagship.
Seven startel: Pearl, Flying Fish, Mary, Swallow, Mistletoe, Alio?, an i Nel'ie. The lot got way well together, wifcli the exception of Flying Fish, whose centre-board caught in one of the schooner's kedpes and detained her for three minutes. Passing down the harbour in front of the flagship Mary had a good lead, Nellie second, followed b3' FJying Fish and Swallow. Returning past flagship for the second time, Mary had increased her distance, with Flying Fish close up, an! Nelli*; nearly a mile astern, and Swallow about ccpial with the later. In the run clown to ihe buoy off the North Shore, I'lying Fish had gained considerably on Mary, and in tho homeward-bound race overhauled her, and came in winner, the others as below: — H. M. S. Flying Fish, 4.J tons, J. Knox ... 337 i 3 1 I Mary, 5J tons, ~J. Clare 338 3 2 \ I Nellie, tons, Perrott ... ... 4— — 3 I Mistletoe, 5 tons, Blouse Trading Vessels (licensed and registered), any rig, under 25 tous register, which have not been built for yachts. Prizes : Ist, New Zealand Insurance Company's cup, value £25, or money ; 2nd, £10; 3rd, £5. Course : From south side of flagship, round boat off the Lake ; thence round boat off Drunken Bay ; thence round boat off the Watchman, coming in on fcouth side of flagship. Six starters : Wanderer, Henry, Avon, Heather Bell, Euphemia, Tairua. All went away in a cluster. The Wauderer sheered ahead at first, followed by the Avon, aud Euphemia close up. First to make an appearance out of Druuken Bay was the Wanderer, followed at some distance by the Avon and Euplietnia, which kept well to. gether until arrival at the wharf, when the Avon, by miscalculation, allowed the Hyphemia to pass to windward. Rounding Stokes's Point mark-boat, Wauderer Kd by six minutes, Euphemia second, Avon third, Tairua fourth, and in this way the race terminated. The Heather Brll, we hear, is high and dry on the reefs off Kohimarama.
Wanderer, 23 tons, E. Pearce... 1 Avon, 19 tons, M. Niccol ... 2 Euphemia, 12 tons, E. Hodgson 3 Henry, 14 tons, J. Hooper ... ... ... 0 Tairua, 14 tons, A. Welby ... ... ... 0 Satm.vg Boats or Yachts (decked or halfdecked), (5 to 15 tons. Prizes : Ist, N *\v Zealand Shipping Company's Cup, value :C2O ; second, £7. Course : Same as fourth race. Five started : Vision, Bismarck, Victory, Sabrina, and Phcanix. Victory was the ouly one that did not get away promptly, but the others were well together, aud the Phtenix shortly got the lead and held it throughout, coming iu winner easily, with the Sabriua second. The Victory met with an accident, running iuto a small boat, the Fawn, but she wa3 out of it, while the Bismarck never went rouud. Phcenix, 40 tons, J. Boylan ... ... ... 1 Sibrint, U tons, E. L. Stoddart ... ... 2 Vision, tons, C. J. Robertson 3 Oi'KN Sailing Boats (All comers). Prizes: Ist. Mr. Lewissou's Cup, valued at £7 10s aud£lo added; 2nd, £7; 3rd, £3. Course: From south side of flagship round bu->y of otf Sandspit, North Head, thence round boat oil* Watchman, twice round, coming iu on south side of ilagship.
Thirteen started : The Toy, Alert, Si?, Volante, Pembroke, Neva, Margaret, Dreadnought, Terrible, Daisy, Missing Link, Tui, and Iving Mapare. This race was second in imporlauoe to none, and the interest centred therein was very great, inasmuch as Mr. Bailey's Toy—the boat that bad beaten everything at Wellington and Lytteltou regattas,—was amongst the number. It was unfortunate that she was out of the race early ; but, nevertheless, the general opinion was, that there were boats in equal to her. It was a magnificent sight to see the cloud of " mosquitos" immediately after the start, each carrying as much canvas as possible, and the crews trying to gain a point if possible over their opponents. A very fair start was effected, the Toy having the worst of it by being under the lee of the flagship, Volante sheering ahead, as also the Brothers, Alert, and others, and in this position they rounded the North Shore buoy. Here an accident took place, which caused the withdrawal of the Toy, at a time she was getting well to windward of the Daisy,—the latter boat careened over to windward, filled, and went, dowu like a stone. The Toy eaned-ofT to pick up the crew of the sunken boat, when the crosstrees of the Missing Link caught the Toy's mainsail, and took it out of her. The immersed men were, however, saved by the Margaret. Beating up the harbour, the Alert got the lead, but opposite the flagship went too near the wharf, and lost the wind, allowing the Brothers and Volante to gain on him, and in this way they passed round the Stokes's Point boat. Here the Sis came to grief, for in rounding she jibed, aud went down, and htr five occupants were struggling in the water. The men on board the cutter Tweed (acting mark-boat) at once put off in a small dingy, and picked up two, and placed them inside, while the other three hung oil to the sides of the dingy until rescued by the s.s. Rotoiti. The Sis was lifted at 4 p.m., and was buoyed by the crew of the Tweed. In running back to the flagship, the Alert seemed to lose grouud, and was only 453 CC. ahead of the Volante, and 45 of the Brothers, Margaret still further behind. Down to the North Head, the Brothers ran b?st, but in working back again the Alert shewed her mettle, and so did the Volante and the finish was as under. Several protests were recorded, and the race was ordcred to be sailed over again :—
11. M. s. Alert, VT. Jones 3 22 42 1 Volantc, Alison ... 3 23 14 2 Brothers, Hunt 328 39 3 Pembroke, Kawi ... ... ... 0 Open Sailing Boat??, under 20ft. overall. Prizes: Ist, £10 ; 2nd, £5; 3rd, £2. Course : Same as Bixth raco. The entries were 11, and all started, viz., Siasy, Blue Bell, Frolic, Foam, Terror, Alert, Nymph, Moter>r, Attempt, Koso, and I'll Try. A very fair start waa made, but the Foam gradually got the lead, and was seen round the buoy first. In coming up the harbour she had the weather position, and passed tbe flagship first, followed by the I'll Try and Nymph. As the Foam was Btandiug from the flagship towards the dock, her sails were setting badly, and looked as i£ something was carried away. Rounding the buoy off Stokes's Point, she had lost considerably, and rounding the buoy at Stoke'Bs Point I'll Try was first, followed by tho Terror, Nymph, and Foam, and in this way they ran down the harbour. Passing the tfagship for the last time, the Foam was slightly ahead, but I'll Try was working up splendidly, when unfortuuately she was blanketted by the yacht Bismarck for a considerable time, and her chance of first place was gone. She, however, took second honours. Tho Frolic carried away her mast before the race, and she sailed round with a single-reef jib aud mainsail.
h. m. s. Foam, J. Waymouth 4 19 31 1 I'll Try, G. Bailey ... 4 21 3 2 Terror, J. Reynolds ... ... 4 22 29 3 Nymph, K. Biggs 425 0 0 Frolic, J. Perrott 4 27 0 0 Four oarfd Gigs (no outriggers), tho proEi'rly of any .Rowing Club, and rowed y amateurs, members of the same, l'rizes : Ist, £15; 2nd, £5. Course : Same as Bth race. Kumea, Ponsonby, Bingham (stroke), Athol (3), McDonald (2), Edmonds (1) 1 No. •} Auckland Kowiny Club, Henderson (stroke), C. D.icre (3), Aitkin (2), Bradley (1), White (coxn.) 2 Sabrina, Ponsonby, Gudgeon (stroke) H. D. Morpeth (3), T. Owen (2), Daw (1), Stoddard (coxn.) 3 No. 2 Auckland, J. Dacro (stroke), Shcra(3), •D. Tonics (2), Longdalc (1), Anderson (coxn.) 4 Four started. Auckland No. 3 took a slight lead past the Railway Wharf, when the Kumea wrested it from them, and round tho bouy increased the lead by about four loDgtlis. There was a foul between the Sabrina and tho Auckland No. 2, and protests have been lodged. The Auckland boat had her fore compartment split and filled with water, but the two boats were never iu it. The Sabrina came in three lengths ahoad of Auckland No. 2. The A.R. Club entered a profcost on the night of entry against the Kumea, on the ground that the crew of tho latter wero not amateurs in accordance with tho rules of the Regatta Club.
Four-oared Gigs (no outriggers), tho property of any Rowing Club, aud rowed by amateurs under 21 years, members of the same. Prize (presented by Mr. Gallagher): £5, aud trophies valued at £5. Course : About 2 miles (with one turn). Three boats entered : the Kumea (Ponsonby) No. 1 Auckland, and the North Shore.
Kumea took the lead from the fir3t, and kept the position throughout, close behind which was Auckland. On the way back the Colonial and Auckland fouled, the former losing their rudder and the latter splitting the canvas covering, which threw the two boats out of the race, allowing Kumea to win easily.
I Kumea, Herries (stroke), King (3), Daw (2), I Halstead (bow), Taylor (coxn.) ... ... 1 ! No. 1 Auckland, Pierce (stroke), Tlaultain (3), Black (2), Yates (1), White (coxn.) ... 2 North Shore. Sims (stroke), McGechie (3), Burgess (2), Townsend (1), Sibbin (coxn.) 3 Foreign-going Vkssels* Gigs, four oars and coxswain. Prizes : l>t, J P. Hydes Gem Bur/epque and Comedy Company's Cup and £7 added; 2nd, £2. Course: Same as 10th race. Three entries : tho May Queen, Maraval, James ishart. 'iliis was a good race, an I up the harbour towards the Stokes's Point buoy, Maraval got ahead, and went round first, coming in ahead of the James WUhart by 10 lengths, May Queen out of it. (R. lUmsry) 1 James Wiahart, barqae (A. Burns) ... .. 2 May Queen, ship (Tatchell) 0 PAYMENT OF PRIZES.
The Regatsa committee met on 31st January sit the Cosmopolitan Hotel, Queen-street, to distribute the prizes won at the late Regatta. The various competitors mustered in large numbers, and the large room was crowded to excess. Mr. Von der Heyde (chairman of the committee) presided, and before proceeding to the more interesting portion of the programme the distribution of the prizes,—said that he waß glad to meet them ouce more at their annual gathering, inasmuch as the late sports were, without doubt, the most successful that had ever taken place on the waters t i^ lO uWaifcemata. Although several protests had been received, he was sure that tho decisions of the umpire, Mr. Marshall, would bo accepted in an honourable spirit, as all would testify that that gentleman had given his decision on the side of that which was just and equitable. All could not secure prizes, but the love of fair-play which distinguished the nautical men of Auckland was such that the defeated would take their beating in a proper manner, and come forward next year with the determination to do better. The Chairman then called upon the winners of the various races, which were as follows
Champion Schooner Kuce.—lst prize, £100 to owner, and chronometer, presented by Mr. Miirshiili, to master; 2nd. £30; 3rd, £10 — Adah (owner, Stone lirus. ; master, W. Jones) wins from Transit by uCsec., 1; Transit, 2; Torea, 3 ; Reward (saves her stakes), -1. Second ltace, Trading Cutters over 20 tons legister. Ist prize, Clip value £25, or money, presented by Mr. Stewart, Thames Hotel, and .t'io milled ; 2nd, £20;3id, £10. Fannie, 1; Sovereign of the Seas, 2 ; Kangatira, 3 ; Leo, 4 — Who s-aves her s'akes by winning from tJie Lizzie by 2min. 2lsoc. j Third Rice, Yachts under G tons. —Ist prize, £20; 2i)d, £D. Flying Kisli, 1 ; JUary, 2; Nellie, 10s, aud saves her stakes. l'ourth Race, Trading Vessels under 25 tons. —-lst prize, New /Zealand Insurance Company's Cnp, or £25; s.'Guild, £10. Wanderer, 1, wins from Euphemia on time allowance by 2min. 30 sec. ; Euphemia, £10, 2 ; Avon, 3. K;ice, ~(j to 15 tons.—lst prize, New Zealand Shipping Company's Cup, value £20 j 2nd, £f, Phienix, 1; Sabiina, 2: Vision, .'j (naves her stakes). Sixth Race, Open Sailing Boats, all comers (to be re-sailed at 2 p.m. to-dav). Seventh llace, Open Sailing" Boats, under 20 feet.—lst prize, £10 ; 2nd, £5 ; 3rd, £2. Foam 1; I'll Try, 2; Terror, 3; Blue Dell, 4 (saves her stakes). Eighth Kace, Four-oared Outriggers.—Prize. £30. Mercury, 1. Ninth Kace, Four-oared no outriggers. —Ist prize, £15. Auckland Rowing Club, 1 ; Ponsonby Rowing Club, 2 (saves her stakes). Tenth Kace, Junior Amateurs, Four-oared Gigs, no outriggers, juniors.—-Ist prize, £5 and air. Gallagher's trophies.—Ponsonby, 1: North Shore, 2. Eleventh Kace, Dingies. No competition. 1 wclfth I'oreign Ships' Gigs. — Ist prize, J.P. Mydes Gem tturlcsrjue and Comedy Company's Cup and £7. M.travul, 1 ; James Wishart,
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Chairman called for cheers for the various winners, which was heartily responded to by all present. —Mr. \on dor Heyde, in a complimentary manner, referred to ihc onerous duties of the umpire (Mr. Marshall), the starter (Capt. Ncaring), the treasurers (Messrs. Henderson, jun., and Dacre), and the secretary (Mr. 15. \V. Burgess), the whole of whom had worked in a most efficient manner, and to whom the successful issue of the Kegatta was due. The toast was received with "three times three."— Mr. Marshall responded, and stated that he had done his utmost to give his decisions in an equitable and just spirit, and although in one instance his verdict might not meet with the approval of a few, yet he had done what was Btrictly honourable, and in accordance with the rules of the club, and he was, therefore, prepared to abide by it. With respect to the gift of tho chronometer, he had regretted that it had not been won by a larger vessel than the Adah—one that had more use for it; yet next year he might be induced togivo another, and he would stipulate that it should be awarded to a sea-going vessel.—Mr. E. W. Burgess, the secretary, thanked those present for the flattering manner in which his name had been received.—The health of Captain Dearborne, the commander of the flagship City of Sydney, was received with acclamation and drunk in bumpers.—Mr. Oxley, representing the competitors, then proposed the health of the chairman, Mr. Von Dor Heyde, in a complimentary manner. The toast was drunk with "three times three," and ouc more for tho " little ones," to which Mr. Von Lleyde replied, and the meeting then dissolved. —The winners of the cups and prizes, however, invited the company to toast the crews of the successful boats in bumpers of champagne, &c., and Mr. Gallagher for a short time was kept steadily engaged in meeting the demand upon his celebrated vintage of " Moet's."
Tbe eighth race, for outriggers, was postponed on the day of tho Regatta in conscquence of too much wind, «iucl tho committee ordered the race to be pulled at 0 a.m. on Jan. 81. Three boats came forward, tbo Madge Wildfire, Mercury, and tbe Zoe. It was well understood that it was a gift for tho Mercury (White Bios.), so that little interest was taken in the event, and the result was not disappointing, the victors never being asked to pull. Captain Rearing acted as starter, and Mr. Marshall as umpire. At the lowering of tbe Hag all got away well together, but tbe Mercury speedily shot out and led the way. Abreast the Daphne the Madge Wildfire swamped, and tbe crew were picked up by tbe Zoe, tho Mercury returning to goal with a splendid stroke.
TRADESMEN'S ATHLETIC SPORTS. There was a large attendance at the Domain Cricket Ground on Jan. 29, to witness the athletic games got up under the auspices of tho Tradesmen's Athletic Club. The sports and races wero carried out in a satisfactory manner, with the following results : Maiden Plate.—First heat, Saycr*, 1 ; 13. Klli«, 2. Four started. Second heat, Davis, 1 ; Dalton, 2. Final heat, Davis, 1; Sayers, 2.
Champion Race, 100 Yards.—First heat, R. Button, 1 ; W. Ring, 2. Four ran. In the second heat, E. McGinley was Ist, and T. Joughin 2nd. In the final heat,' King came in Ist, Hutton 2nd, and Jouchin 3rd. High Jump.—Hume, 4ft. Sin., 1; Dalton, 2. Race, 120 Yards.—First heat, Martin, 1 ; Davis, 2. Second heat, G. W. White, 1 ; P. Jones, 2. Final heat, G. White, 1 ; J. Davis, 2. Walking Matcii.—J. Bryan (SO yards), 1; E. Sandall (120 yards), 2. Several competitors wero disqualified. Long Jump.—There were four entries, and the match was won by A. Good. Hurdle Rack, 200 Yards.—-The winner was B. Ellis, Joughiu being second, and Brennan third. Milk Rack —For the mile raco there were 17 starters. A splendid race ensued. It was won by McCarthy, who had 100 yards start, by about half a-yard. A pro test has been entered against the winner. Brown came in second, and G. Hendry third. Brown started from scratch. 440 Yards Handicap.—This was won by James Martin, with Hutton second, and White third. McGinley got the prize allotted to the beat-dressed competitor. A number of other sporting events besides those mentioned were carried out, and those who attended at tho CHuket Ground yesterday had full value for their money. RAILWAY EMPLOYEES' FETE. A. V. Mitcdonald, Esq., Jmlge; Mr. nar^raves, Starter ; Messrs. Sullivan and Hancock, tiaudicappers ; Robnrt Farrell, Secretary.
Tiib annual excursion of tho railway employees has now beoomo a recognised institution, and, judging from that of January 25, it will gain the patronago of tho public on every succeeding occasion. That this ia greatly due to the efficient arrangements made by the committee and tho secretary (\lr. Farrell), .nono can gainsay, while the selection of the locality on the present occasion contributed largely to its success. Tho committee were very happy in choosing Mr. J. B. Hay's estate, Hunua, as the rendezvous for their annual gathering. There wore three special trains for tho conveyance of tho pionickers, and each of these was tastefully decorated with evergreens and flags, and, as they passed the variouß settlements, they were greeted with the cheers of the residents; -while the largo number of passengers carried to and fro without a single
accident reil e a the greatest credit npnn the management of Mr. Macdonald and his staff. It is estimated that there w» re about 2000 persons on the ground during the day, of whom IGOO wore conveyed from Auckland, about 300 from the Waikaro, and the remainder from the surrounding settlements, the inhabitants of which turned out in large numbers, and appeared t) tak* as jjreat interest in it as the employees. Mr. Little (of the Thistle Hotel) rang tho cong for luncheon, and there was a rush f-»r the pavilion, and those who were for. tunate to secure a footing were soon discussing the merits of a really excellent cdd luncheon, which wa3 partaken of by the bulk of the dii.crs with avidity. Mr. Macdonald, the General Manager, occupied the post of honour, aod Mr. Elliott, Superintendent of the Locomotive Department. | filled the vice-chair. It was int- nded | that there should be a Utile speechifying, but as a large crowd were clamouring outside for admittance, the chairmau very dis--1 erectly made thi* part of the programme formal, and gave the following toasts: — "The Q'ieen," "Members of the Legislature." Mr. Elliott cave, "The Commissioners of the Railways and H«ads of Departments, PuMic Works, coupled with tho nam© of Mr. Stewart, the Resident Engineer," to which Mr. Hewson brieiy replied. From the chair: "Our luvited Guestf," to which his Worship the Mayor responded; u The health of Mr. J. B. Hay, the proprietor of the estate." Mr. Hay said it gave him gte.it pleasure to see *o many persons vnjo>u-g themselves, and the
little he had done toward conducing to such apparent pleasure to so large a company was ample recompense, and he would bt; happy to meet them on a future occasion at h s place. While the sports for the adults drtw a large number of spectators, those of the children of the employees by no means neglected, and as each sex had an opportunity of gaining laurels, considerable merrimeut. was attached to this part of the prog« amine, and the varied prizes given, such as hair and toolli brushes, trinkets for ' feminine attire, cricketing material for the boys. The entries for each event wore large, and the girls, in many instanc s, shewed the boys how to travel. Those whose inclinations Jed them to the m izy dance, were amply provided for, as the City arid Engineer Rand, under Conductor linpey, were stationed in the southern part of the tl.it, and the numerous and incessant calls up-jti their time indicated iiow thoroughly the public appreciated their music, j The bicycle circus was well patronised, and although Mr. Little livid out great inducements in tho shape of various kinds of refreshments, yet iced claret was " the rage," aud the demand for this and other harmless beverages was great, and good order and harmony prevailed to the close. At 0.30 p.m. the eugine whistle sounded, aad the large crowd gradually wended their way to the station. The Waikato contingent was despatched punctually ; the Anck'and train, with its engines aud about 1500 passengers, was soon making for the city, where all were saftdy landed by S3O p.m. Subjoined are the particulars of the sports :— 150 Yauok Fl.\t Kacs-% sou* of employees and apprenticf-3 under 10 years of age.— John Holly, Ist, 15s; Jno. Hutchinson, 2nd, 7s 6.1. 250 Yards Handicap, railway employees, senior apprentices and junior clerks.—Thos. Holly, scratch, Ist, 20-4; C. Kennedy, 2yds., H. Byron, Iyd. tie, 10s. Special Race, twice round the course — Falkner, Ist, Sullivan, 2nd, 10a; J. Stilwell, 3rd, Gd. 440 Yards Handicap Hurdle Race, over 8 hurdles, 3 feet 4 inches high.—Thomas I folly, Ist, 255; C. Kennedy, 12yds., 2nd, Iss ; J. Paterson, 3rd, 4yds. 200 Yards Flat Race Handicap, married employees only.—Halloran, Ist, 20s ; McCabe, 2nd, 10s. 300 Yakds Hurdle Race, open to all employees.—Thomas Holly, Ist, 455; Halloran, 2ud, 303 ; Macfarlanc, 3rd, 20s. H ?p, Step, and Jump—A. Taylor, Ist, 10s ; W. Ilaokett, 2nd, ss; McCabe, 3rd. Tug-of War, railway employees, 20 men aside, £s.—McLcod (Captain) Ist ; Hancock ; Victor Liuloruin — handsome tea kettle, Thomas Holly.
UNION STEAM SAW, MOULDING SASH, AND DOOR COMPANY", The half yearly general meeting of tlio Union Steam Saw, Moulding, Sash, ami Door Company (Limited) was held on the 3Ut January, at the offices of Messrs. Tothill and Stodclart, Shortlaml-street. Punctually at tlio time appointed tliero was a. large and influential attendance of shareholders, and Mr. G. S. Kissling, chairman of directors, presided. The minutes of last meeting were read and confirmed, and tlie report and balance-sheet for the half-year were submitted as follows: Diukctoks' Report.—The directors, in submitting to shareholders the result of the operations for the half-year ending 31st December, IS7B, have to congratulate them on the continued prosperity of the company. After making full and ample allowances for all bad and doubtful debts and depreciation, the net profit amounts to £9527 Os 2d; add to which, the undivided profit at 30th June last, viz., £700 12s 7d: giving the sum of £10,587 12a 9d available for dividend, the following appropriation of which is recommended : —To payment of dividend at the rate of 20 per cent, per annum, £0423 ; balance carried to profit and loss new account, £4104 12s 9d-£10,557 12s 9d. The dividend will be payable at the office of the company, on and after Monday next, the 3rd February. The mectiug will have to elect a director in the room of Mr. G. S. Kissling, who retires by rotation, but is eligible, and offers himself for re-election.—G. S. Kissung, Chairman.
Dit.—Capital, £04,230; 5000 .shares at £2 10s each, 10,3JG shares at £5 each : total, 15 f 34ti shares; number of shares forfeited, 170; number of shares purchased, 10; amount paid for forfeited shares, £oS2 10s; premiums on shares sold, £20,835 10s; Bank of New Zealand, £.36,950 Ss lid; open credits, £17,722 8s 9d; balance available for divideuil, £10,557 12s 9d : total, £150,332 0s sd. Cu. —Mills, plant, machinery, wharves, dams, booms, and tramways, £51,173 13s it<\, lesß depreciation £9,099 14s 10d—£42,075 18s 8d; leasehold property, £700, less depreciation £400 —£300; properties, £J5,512 3s 2d; stocks on baud (timber, goods, tools, and stores), £51,610 Is lid ; sundry debtors, £13,434 12s 3d ; cash in hand, £39G Gs 5J : total, £15G,332 0* sd. ritOFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT. Dr.—Bad debts, expenses, wages, rent, taxes, insurance, interest, repairs, &c. f £19,143 lGs lOd; depreciations, £2891 15s 2d; balance carried down, £10,587 12s 9d : total, £32,623 4s 9d. Cr.—Balance from last half-year, £7GO 12s 7d ; debts recovered, £50 2s 7d ; transfer fees, £20 ; rents and commissions, £406 9s lOd ; gross profits for half-year, £31,385 19s 9d: total, £32,623 4s 9d. Balance brought down, £10,557 12s 9d. The Chairman briefly moved the adoption of tbe rci>orfc and balance-sheet.—The motion was unanimously agreed to. Election of a Director.—Mr. Kissling said tho next business of tho meeting was to elect a director. He retired by rotation, but offered himself again for re-election, and ho would now retire from the chair, and ask the meeting to elect a chairman. —Mr. S. IS. Hughes was elected chairman.—Mr. Tonks proposed that Mr. Kissling be re-elected director. He spoke of tbe great services which Mr. Kissling had rendered to the company.—Mr. Boardman, in secondiugthe motion, spoke to tbe samo effect.—The motion was put to tbe meeting, and passed unanimously, amidst applause.—Mr. Hughes then vacated tbe chair, and it was resumed by Mr. Kissling, who said that any service he had been able to render to the company, ho did so willingly, but he was not prepared for this ovation. The succcss of tho company was tho groatest mark of thanks which could bo rendered to tho director*, and although one of them himself, he would say that tbe directory they had was perhaps the best they could get. The experience which was necessary for successfully carrying on the business of a company like this was not to be picked uj) in a day or two. Tie looked forward with confidence to tho futuro success of the company, and trusted that there were many future days when tliey would be able to congratulate themselves. Ho thanked them for tho honour they had done him in re-electing him to a seat on the Board. New Issue or Shares. — Mr. Cawkwell asked for an explanation regarding tho new j issue of shares, and at whose instance it had been done.—The Chairman said the proper time for Mr. Cawlnvell to have asked this question was when the adoption of the report was | before tho meeting. Ho might, however, point , out that there was an item in tbo accounts that there was a sum of £39,000 due to tho Bank I of New Zealand. It was to wipe off this overdraft, and to work tho comi>any on their own instead of borrowed capital that the new issue : of shares was made. The matter was discussed at a meeting of the board of directors, and it was at their instance that the new issue of shares was agreed upon. Mr. Cawkwell said he 1 did not ask the question in any factious spirit, but he represented a very largo number of : shares, although holding few himself, and he ' wished to bo in a position to writo home and give a reason for'the course which had been adopted. Votes of Thanks.—Mr. Stark moved a cordial vote of thanks to tho company's officers for their ablo and zealous services during the past year. Ho was sure that a great deal of the success of tho company was due to the faithful manner in which the officers had. performed
their duties. —Mr. Lawrie seconded tho motion, ami it was unanimously agreed to.—Mr. Monck, the company's general manager, replied, and said that he took the thanks of the meeting as intended for all the employees of the company, as their energy and industry have contributed much to the success of the half-year's business. He limped the company would never be wintiuy in an ample staff of servants, over.vith zeal and loyalty iu its interests, an 1, as to meet the requirements of the rapid settlement that is taking place in the colony, there will be a constant strain upon their faculties development and adaptation, so he trusted it would be met by their increasing experience and skill. A vote of thanks was accorded to the chairman, and the meeting terminated.
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New Zealand Herald, Volume XVI, Issue 5371, 3 February 1879, Page 2
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21,310OUR HOME LETTER. New Zealand Herald, Volume XVI, Issue 5371, 3 February 1879, Page 2
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