OUR HOME LETTER.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XVII, Issue 5729, 29 March 1880, Page 2

OUR HOME LETTER.

Dup.ikc the month Ministers have been bu-v throughout the colony, and there are | no w si«ns that they are preparing for the aession" of Parliament which is to commence in May. The Hon. Mr. Hall, the premier, reached Auckland on the Oth of March, and was followed in a few days after by the Hon. Mr. Rolleston, Minister" of Lands, Justice, and Immigration. The Hon. Mr. Whitaker, the Attorney-General, has resided at Auckland since shortly after the prorogation. Sir. Hall and Mr. TYhitaker visited the Vaikato and Upper Thames on the occasion of the celebration of the opening of the navigation of the Thames by Mr. J. C. Firth. Mr. Firth has spent a large sum of money, and has exerted himself energetically over a long series of years, to clear the Thames from snags, rock 3, and other obstacles which impeded the navigation of the river. Not only had physical difficulties to be overcome by perseverance, labour, and scientific skill, and the use of the best modern but the natives had to be dealt with. The work had at times to cease from native opposition, and. throughout, a large amount of tact and courage had to be shown. Mr. Firth has to be congratulated on his success. Ministers continued in Auckland till the ISth March,' when Mr. Hail left for the South, land ir.r at Tarsnaki, where he met the Hon - Jt. Brvce. Xative 3linister, who has been almost constantly in the Taranaki district since there was a danger of collision with the followers of Te Yv'hiti by the occupation cf the \Vannate Plains. At the same time the Hon.

Mr. Eolleston left for the Thames, ■whence he is to go by Katikati, Tauransa. Maketu. and the Lake district through the interior. During their stay in Auckland Ministers were " deputationised " by a large number of persons on different subjects, and they carefully examined the local institutions. Xt wa3 expected that the Native Minister would have visited Auckland before this time, but he has been detained by the engrossing business pertaining to his department at Taranaki.

There is in reality no change to report in the position of affairs in the WanganuiPatea district, regarding which we have written fullv in previous issues. Shortly after the cresent .Ministry came into office they determined to occupy the Waimate Plains, a tract of country which was confiscated some fifteen or sixteen years ago, but which has never been occupied. Possession of the land was taken by a bodv of Armed Constabulary numbering" about 800 men, and these been reinforced by parties of labourers, who are to be employed on road-making. This work has proceeded briskly since the force went on to the Plains, now several months ago, but the natives have in no way interrupted the work. Still, some apprehension has been felt, and the utmost precautions have been taken. A great meeting of natives wa3 held at Parihaka, Te Whiti's settlement, on the 17tli of the present month. It was expected that this would be the turning point : that Te Whiti would either declare that the road making must stop, or take such a course as would lead to an accommodation. The meeting was a large one, and the natives manifested great interest in Te Whiti's utterances. He asserts that he is a prophet, puts himself in the position of a saviour by divine and miraculous means, and to these pre tensions a large number of natives give credence. For a long time past he has led them to expect that by some supernatural means he would clear off the Government, and have the Waimate Plains restored to the Maoris. It was toped tliat he would pretend to see that it wa3 the wish of the Maoris that the Europeans should go on with the work they had begun. Te Whiti made a long speech, but so obscure to the European mind that those skilled in Maori language and the tone of thought of the Maoris differ widely as to its meaning. !No doubt it was intentionally obscure. Te "Whiti ha 3 been so long proclaiming himself a deliverer for the race in the hour of trial, and one who is fully prepared by miraculous power to meet the crisis when it comes, that he cannot now shirk the position. and yet he must see that to launch hi 3 followers against our power would be destruction to them. If he openly recoiled before us, he would expose his own pretensions, and lose all his followers. His situation was a difficult one, and he ably met .it. The Maoris are as firmly attached to him as ever. They are still at his beck and call, and he is as formidable as ever. The most politic procedure for Te Whiti was to be defiant and confident, while at the same time he did not sanction the taking up of arms by his followers. This was precisely what he did. There is one consideration which is now obtaining prominence, and which, for aught we know, may be an element in the calculations and plans of Te Whiti. The ■maintenance of the force which the colony has on foot is felt to be a burden •which cannot long be borne. The colony needs to use well all its resources, and it cannot afford to retain long on foot a considerable body of men, highly paid, and whose commissariat costs a great deal. The co3t of the present force probably amounts to not les3 than £15,000 per month. So long as Te Whiti maintains his present position we cannot disband or weaken our force. With the precautions we have to take in guarding every party, the road-making and survey will occupy a considerable time, and meantime the expense is going on. Even if the road-making and surveying were completed, the settlers could not be left unguarded for a considerable time after they had taken possession of their allotments. This is a frank statement of the present great difficulty of the colony. There is a risk of a conflict, but in any caso the colony will have to bear a considerable burden.

At the present time commissions are sitting on the public works of the colony in order to decide on the lines of railway to be completed, and to report as to the efficient and economical working of the present liae3. A commission is also sitting to consider the best means of promoting the industries of the colony.

Little 13 known as to what are the intentions of the Ministry for next session. They seem determined to enforce the strictest economy in all the departments. A bill will be introduced to inaugurate a new 3ystem of dealing with native lands, this being rendered necessary by the breakdown of the Government system of land purchase. The members who formed the Opposition in last session liaving become disorganised, and havinf no distinct policy, it is probable that no attempt even will be made to oust the Ministry. Their measures, however, will be keenly criticised.

A native parliament" assembled at Orakei on the 18th, and is still in session. Orakei is a small native settlement, about four miles from Auckland, where live the remnants of the tribes who formerly owned the Auckland district, under the chief Paul Tuhaere. These people, with their kinsmen from Kaipara, and Bome Ngapuhi chiefs from the 13ay of Islands district, have gathered, to the number of about 200, to discius 3ub]ects interesting to them. Last year, the "parliament" Tras recognised and encouraged by the Government of Sir George Grey, but this year the Government have quite ignored the gathering. We may remark that to assemble periodically for the discussion of public affairs ia an ancient custom of the Maoris, carried OH long before the Europeans came here or obtained any political powers. The Maoris do not seem to think the time has come for the disuse of this custom. Speaking another language, they are

lalmoat completely debarred from findinf expression for their sentiments througl the Press, and they have not thi many ways which Europeans enjo; for making their wants known. The; are not likely, therefore, to dis continue their occasional gatherings The proceedings were conducted in > most orderly manner by Paul. Resolu tions were passed censuring the Govern ment for detaining the Taranaki prisoner in gaol without trial, and also for havin< occupied the Plains with an armed fore while a Commission was investigating a to the promises alleged to have beei made to the natives by successive Govern. ments in relation to native reserves. Th meeting also condemned the Governmen for the°way in which they had stoppec the salaries of various chiefs, and thi issue of medicines. Business during the month has beei dull, especially in the Southern provinces and there have been complaints froo various quarters of want of employment In the circumstances, the Governmen have sent home instructions to the Agent General that the immigration systen hitherto in operation should be largely modified. The only immigration now t< be encouraged is that of persons skillec in agriculture, and possessed of somi capital. The deputation of Lincolnshire farmer have spied out the land, and arrived a the conclusion thai no portion of it offer them so many temptations as the pro vince of Auckland, and they have there fore asked the Waste Lands Hoard t< hold ten thousand acres of the Te Aroh: block at their disposal for a reasonabli term, and they have consented to do si for sis months, and no doubt, shoulc circumstances require it, there will be nc difficulty about extending the period. As, however, the delegates return tc England by the next mail steamer, ii may be expected that the time fixed wil suffice. It is highly satisfactory that the delegates have selected this district' a; affording the best opportunity for settle ment, and the measure of the advantage is not to be estimated by the ten thousand acres which they think will be required because they go back to Lincolnshire the unofficial agents of the country to proclaiti to others besides those whose interest: they represent that Auckland is that par of New Zealand to which they shoulc direct their steps. There will be a genera desire to know the result of the visit o the Lincolshire delegates, and so far fron its being confined to their friends it wil even extend beyond their county. Ii many respects they will do more for u: than any emigration agents could do because, having come here with a defmit object, having seen with their own eyes their report will be received with a con fidence greater than would be extendee to the most trustworthy of official agents But the question is worth consideratioi whether it is not possible to utilise to thi utmost the visit of these delegates— whether the widest publicity cannot bi secured for their opinion of the agricul tural merits of the colony. It would be ; great advantage if they could be inducec to visit some of the most importan portions of the United Kingdom. Th< Times is publishing a series of letters fron several of its special correspondents ii theUnitedStates and Canada, which speal in glowing terms of Minnesota and thi province of Manitoba. It is desirable ti counteract this as much as possible, anc the circulation of the opinion of thi Lincolnshire delegates would do more ti effect this than anything else. The Government should attempt ti compass this in some way or another and it could do no harm to inquiri whether the delegates will consent ti givo the result of their experi-enci in places which they might be left t< select, or which might form the subjec of agreement. It is probable they woulc be reluctant, and say that they an farmers, and not lecturers. But gentle men whose intelligence has caused thei selection for the very responsible dut-j they have had to discharge mus have all the aptitude required for thi purpose. Lecture seems a formid able term to apply to what would b< required of them ; it would in reality bi a plain narration of facts, accompaniec by opinions. It would be just tlii3 " We went to New Zealand at the requesi of some of our fellow-agriculturists to see what temptations it afforded for emigrat ing there. The Government of the colonj is most desirous that the farmers o; England should know the inducements if offera them, and hence it has asked us tc tell you what we have seen and heard, and, having consented, we are here to givt you the result of our experience, and angwer any questions you may desire tc put to us. To commence with, we maj tell you that we ourselves are so wel: satisfied with the result of our visit that we and those who sent us have resolved to go there." A narration, not a lecture, is what is required ; and if it could be managed, it would be worth a Jew's eye. If it cannot, then some other means should be found of giving publicity tc their impartial opinion, and that means appears to be the publication in a large number of the mo3t widely-circulated of the county journals of their report in the news columns, with their names appended, and the circumstances under which they visited the colony. It would of course be paid for as an advertisement, care be taken that it received the utmost prominence, and a hope be expressed that it would form the subject of editorial comment. Provided the delegates are willing to write a report before the departure of the mail steamer, it might be printed at the Government Printing Office, receive their revision, and copies be forwarded to the Agent-General, with instructions to give it the publicity suggested. This is an exceptionally favourable spportunity for giving publicity to m opinion of exceptional value, not inly because it will be accepted as impartial, but because the delegates came Dut with a definite object, and would be recognised as competent to speak with iuthority. If any better means of accomplishing the object can be offered than ;hose we suggest, so much the better, but we certainly think that it would be the leight of folly not to endeavour in some pray to extract from the visit of the deleSates all the advantages of which it i 3 iU3ceptible. The Government has sent itrict injunctions to the Agent-General to :onfine hi 3 efforts with regard to emigra.ion to farmers, and it would be only conlistent with that course to do all that can >e achieved in the direction we have inlicated. It is tolerably certain that the lelegates will refer in the highest terms ■o our climate, and as this is the weak point, and a very weak one, of both the Jnited States and Canada, no exertions ihould be spared to make the utmost of t. They have the advantage of greater proximity to England ; our climate is lurs, and we ought to be on the alert to urn it to account. We must confess that ve think the Government might go furher than this, and doing the matter :arefully, and within reasonable imita, authorise the Agent-General ,o guarantee the expenses, or some >ortion of them, of persons having limilar authority to and bent on the lame object as Mes3ra Grant, and Foster. Che movement amongst the farmers of England is of the utmost importance to is, but how long it may last cannot be orotold, and therefore no stone should )e left unturnod to take advantage of it, Ltid with all possible promptitude. Chore is a tide in the affairs of colonies as 'f men, a nd i'? we do not make uso of his, our tide, we shall be a very slow lot « people indeed, and deservo, if wo do lot receive, the jeers of our rivals.

ecclesiastical The third, anniversary of the Ponsonby Wealoyan Church was celebrated on March 3, by a soiree, held iu the Pousouby Hall A larc;o number sat down to tea, and 'the tiblos wore presided over by tlio folio win., ladies Mesdames W. Thome, J. Gittos G. M. Main, Bettany, Hutchison, Bloom Held, Griffiths, Goodacre, Lees, libodca Heron, McElwain, Jeasop. After tea the tables were removed, and the seats rc.

arranged, and the public meeting was commenced. Mr. J. Gittos, church steward, read the annual report. It stated that the ronaonby district bad advanced, and now contained a population of nearly 3000 people. Their work in the district had progressed Bteadily ; 116 sittings were occupied, and sir unlet. The remainder were reserved for the Sabbath scholars. A Bum o£ £122 33 9i had been raised on the church trust account, and £182 18* 4d for circuit purposes and Sunday-school work, making a total of £305 2s 3d. The gallery erected last year had been of great service to the choir and junior school classes. The time was arriving when the present church would have to be enlarged, or a new one built, and the trustees relied on the hearty co-operation of all the friends of the cause in the circmt. The present debt on the church was £270, bearing interest at 8 per cent. By appointment of the Conference in April last, the Rev. \fr. Parkes was located in the district He continued until October, when he resigned, and from that time until December they were without a resident minister. In the latter part of that mouth, the present esteemed minister arrive 1, and thev regretted the law that now compelled his removal to another part. The Rev. H. Dewsbury, who had beea appointed by the Conference, would commence h'S libours next April. In r. gard to membership, they had two classes, containing 25 members. In order to make the church more comfortable, the trustees expended £37 in varnishing the interior, and an American orgiu had been ! purchased- Mr. Gittos then rea l the Kalaucosheet, the principal features of which are contained in the report. The meeting was then addressed by several gentlemen, aud the proceedings terminated by the chairman pronouncing the benediction. On March 21, the new Presbyterian Church at Tuakau was opened by the Rev. Mr. Munro. Services were held at 2 p.m. and at 7 p.m., on which occasion he preached very eloquent sermons to large and attentive con cremations, numbering each time about 130 persons. The choir, led by Mr. Jones, added very materially to the beauty and solemnity iof the services. The collections amounted to £3 10s 4d. On the following evening a soiree was held in the church, which was beautifully decorated with evergreens and flowers. At the back of the pulpit was a device neatly worked by Mr. Gray—"Righteousness exalteth a nation." Over the bachelors' table, to the left as you entered the building, was another, neatly done by a young lady—"Bachelors' Tray." There could not bavebeen lessthan2oo in and about the building. The tea occupied a considerable time. Major Harris, M.H.R., occupied the chair, rie expressed his pleasure at presidio? over so large a gathering. The Rev. Mr. Norrie and other clergymen addre?ssd the meeting at some length. After singing the doxology, the people at a late hour dispersed for home. Touching the building, a few words may not be out of place. One rev. speaker alluded to the insufficient ventilation, and not without cause. The church was crammed full, and the heat stifling, tempered somewhat by the opened windows, which admitted a cold current of air in a line with the heads, more dangerous than the heat itself. \\ hat the speaker suggested was that there should be ventilation near the roof at each end. During the proceedings, Mr. Fergie read the report, the purport of which I append : —Dr. : Cost of building, £131 9s ; painting, _£7 ISa; and pulpit, £24 : total, £IG3 iS. Cr. : Bv subscriptions, £30 ; advanced by Mr. Norrie, £50 ; collections at opening services, £3 10s 4d ; trays, £12 : total, £145 10s 41.

Oa Wednesday, February 25, the Right Rev. Dr. Cowie conducced a confirmation service in St. Michael's Church, Hakaru. The church was not sufficiently large to hold the vast concourse assembled on the occasion. The rite of conSrmation was administered to five candidates— namely, John Baldero, Fred. BaMero, Mary K. Baldero, Florence Ryan, and Jane Knight. His Lordship was assisted by the Kev. Mr. Sparling (chaplain). After confirmation the hymn beginning " Soldiers of Christ Arise." was sung. Then followed a recitation by some of the Sunday-school scholars, snbject, "Ruth and Naomi." Considerableability was displayed during this very interesting performance. At its conclusion the Bishop destributed among the children nine prayer-books with hymns. His Lordship expressed himself as being pleased with the general progress ma le b\- the children. At the conclusion of the proceedings the children were invited to the treat annually given by the Misses Tutin. The spread took place on the lawn in front of the parsonage. After the wants of seventy-two children had been attended to, the parents ami visitors, to the number of seventy, refreshed themselves with tea and an ample supply of viands. Bishop Uowie, as usual, took a lively interest in every thing going on. His Lordship, before leaving, took occasion to compliment the Messrs. Tutin upon the care bestowed upon the burying ground, remarking that it was the best kept cemetery in the diocese. Just before departure, the Bishop addressed the children, ani wishei them all a pleasant "Good-bye."

A congregational meeting was held in the Presbyterian Church, Wairoa South, on the Bth March, to hear the report of a com. mittee appointed at a previous meeting. The Rev. T. Korrie opened the meeting with prayer, and then stated the object of the meeting. Mr. J. S. Wilson, as convener of the committee appointed, siid at the last meeting he had to report that the committee, after careful inquiry and examination of those from whom certain rumours were supposed to originate, had come to the conclusion that the accusation against "a Presbyterian minister," appearing in the Fress Press newspaper, in its issues of the 21st and 2Sth ultimo, is totally unfounded as far as the Rtv. T. Norrie is concerned." Mr. D. Crawford proposed "That the report be adopted." Seconded by Mr. J. Henderson, and passed unanimously. Mr. Grandison proposed a vote of conGdence in Mr. Norrie a3 their pastor. Seconded by Mr. Matheson, and passed unanimously. Mr. Norrie briefly thanked the meeting for their cordial vote, and closed the meeting with prayer.

The third annual meeting of tho Scripture Gift Association was held on February 27, in the rooms of the Young Men's Christian Association, —Mr. F. Larkins in the chair. The secretary read the report, which gave a synopsis of the Association's proceedings during the past year, and showed that the total number of schools visited wi'h Bible exercises was 85 ; number of prize-books awarded 3559, being an increase oE 1040 on the previous year. The balance-sheet, which was read by Mr. Rout, stowed that the receipts for the yeir had been £207 9* Bd. Assets : Books in depot, £12 ; printing on hand, £7. Liabilities, nil. Balance in hand after paying expenses, £1 4s 81. The subscriptions f>om various parts of the province amounted to £82 ; donation by Mr. J. C. Firth, £20 ; collections by ladies in Auckland and suburbs, £50 ; from the Thames, £7 Is ; On-hunga, £9 2a ; Captain Logan, £3 3s ; subscriptions and donations paid to treasurer, £08 10s. The meeting concluded with the usual devotional exercises. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OP NEW ZEALAND, The General Assembly of the Church met on the 15th of March, in St. Andrew's Church. The Rev. R. F. Macuicol, of St. James's, Wellington-street, was elected Moderator. The Provincial of Canterbury, Nelson, Hawke's Bay, and Taranaki wera represented. Deputies were sent from the Presbyterian Church of Otago and Southland (the Rev. Mr. John Ryloy and Mr. Alexander Rainnie), and there was a large attendance of elders, members, and adherents of the several churches from day to day. The s 'ssion occupiei eight days, from the 15th of March to the 23rd of March, both days inclusive. The opening address of the Moderator was a practical exhortation to energy in prosecuting the work of the Church, laying much stress on the value of a ready adaptation to tho circumstances of tho different localities where the presbyters, student evangelists, and missionary agents were placed. Mueli of the business consisted of detail, and wo take the questions of general interest which arose iu the order o£ their importance. There was some reservation on both sides as to tho prospective botween tho "union" of the Church of " New Zealand" and tho Presbyterian Church of " Otago and Southland," but the frequency with which reference was made to it manifested tho eagerness on both sides that such "union" should be consummated at an early date. The hindrances hitherto to such a consummation wero stated to be tho geographical separation of the Churches, the disproportiuu of endowments and practical difficulties of perfect accord arising from other inoqalitios. Tho deputioa from Otago and Southland gave their adhosion very plainly to the desirability and expediency of a nnion of tho two branches of the Church. Tho achomo of a Sustontation Fund, launched sotnu time ago, has boon unsuocossfHl up to tho prcsont, but tho Assembly decided that renewed efforts should bo niado to give practical elTuot to tho exhortations of

the principal members of tha Church on this subject. The Students Evangelists Act, 1876, and the Amendment Act were discassed, and a motion was made to rescind them, but as it was stated that no case wonld arise under them during the present yeir, it was resolved that no action should be taken until the next General Assembly of the Church, which is to meet in "Wellington in March, 1881. It was resolved that all appointments of missionary stations should have the sanction of the Presbytery " within the bounds." There was another rather interesting question discussed—viz., the status of accredited ministers coming from distant places, other colonies or countries, who might ba invited to assist the local Presbytery or to deliberate with it. The question arose out of the claim of the Hev. Mr. McCa'.lum to act as Moderator of Kirk Session. It was resolved, "That, in future, the Assembly shall approve the nomination of the Presbytery in such caies." The income of the Church for the year was stated by the treasurer to be £25,300, which is a decrease upon the year of £1400; but the decrease on chorch-bnilding operations was stated to be £2500, so that had the building undertakings been carried out there would be shown an increase of income. The office of Church .'gent, held by the Rev. D. Bruce, was much discussed. The importance of the office was admitted on all aid. f;. The activity, energy, and fitness of Mr. Bruce for the office was not questioned. He wa3 appointed at a salary of £600 a-ye»r. The office ha 3 been eliietly maintained by subsidies from the homo Churches. These subsidies have materially diminished, and the promise in one case has been only half fulfilled. The Rev. Mr. Bruce offered to continue to discharge tho duties of the office at the convenience of the Assembly, and tendered his resignation, to leave the Church free action in the matter. It was resolved to accept the agent's resignation ; to appoint a committeee to consider the whole subject; to instruct the committee to submit the importance of the office ti Presbyteries throughout the colony, and also to the various congregations. The appointment of student evangelists was given to the Church Extension Committee, but these officers were in every case to be under the immediate control of a member of the Presbytery "within the bounds." Tha various committees reported, and the standing committees for the year were appointed. There was a conversazione in connection with the Assembly sittings, at which a large body of adherents and members were present. The principal topic spoken to was the prospective union of the two branches of the Church in New Zealand. The Rev. Mr. Sidey, of Hawke's Bay (ex-Moderator), who was a deputy to the Otago Church last year, told th 9 Assembly during its present sitting that this question was making steady, if not rapid, progress towards a satisfactory solution. The session concluded with a brief address from the Moderator. The members of the Assembly, after a short sojourn in Auckland, have departed for their several charges throughout the colony. There was very little "difference of opinion on matters involving principle. The tendency was to consider matters merely of business and detail. The members of the Assembly, in their more popularaddresses, have declared that the results are eminently satisfactory. MEETINGS AND AMUSEMENTS. On Monday, February 23, at Pahi, a meeting, combining something of the concert with something of the Bpeechifyng element, wa3 held Bishop Cowie, with sundry ministers (Anglican and Wtsleyan), was announced as having the latter department in charge ; while the former was supposed to be in the care of the galaxy of local amateurs which always make concerts here soen joy able. As fate would have it, the day proved wet, and though the weather cleared for a brief Bpace in the evening, the gathering proved small for so great an occasion. Therefore 1 the programme was recast; all speechifying was eliminated therefrom, and a lecture by ! Bishop Cowie, on " Afghanistan," was inserted as the principal item, apparently to ' the satisfaction of all present. Captain Colbeck, M.H.R., occupied the chair. In > the abaence of maps, the lecture was illua- : trated by a diagram on the blackboard, i which made plain tha "scientific frontier" and other points of interest. At the conc'usion of the lecture, those present left f certainly knowing much more than when ! they came on the subject of British policy, Russian aggression, and the hapless Affghan > between them. The lecture was enlivened • by several shreds of the anticipated concert. ! The Misses Colbeck and Mrs. Waleaby per--1 formed instrumental selections on the piano- : forte. The soDg3 were, a duet, "The Wind and the Harp," by Mesdames Chadwick and Jerram ; " When Sweet Moments Fly," by Mr. Jackman ; " Hearts and Homes," by Mr. Walesbv. Miss Fisher and Mrs. DeLibrosae officiated as pianists. Votes of thanks to the lecturer and to the chair concluded the meeting. The anniversary soiree in connection with the Btresford-street Congregational Church took place on 2nd March, in the Bchool room adjacent to the chapel. About 250 persons sat down to tea, the tables being presided over by various ladiei of the congregation. After this ceremony an adjournment was made t) the church, where a public meeting was held, and the lars;e number that had. be;n p'e3ent in the echo J-room was further augmeuted by friends from various churches. The meeting was presided over by the Hev. J. Robertson, M. A., the pastor of the church, who was supported by the Revs. G. Bond. D. W. Runciman, M.A., R. Taylor, A. Riding (who arrived on Monday, from Sydney, to take charge of the sister church at Maungituroto), Kev. E. O. Perry (of the Metholist Free Church, who lately arrived from England), and Captain Daldy. Mr. Ellyett, the secretary, read the report, of which we append an abstract. The Rev. Mr. Robertson, before introducing the various gentlemen who were to address the meeting, referred to the flattering repo-t read by tbe secretary, both ae regards the progress male in the membership of the church and also its financial position. The contemplated erection of the gallery in the church, it is estimated, would cost £450, and he wa3 glad to state that, although only a few hours had been spent by himself and a deacon in canvassing, they had been promised £'250, an 1 before many days were over they hoped to meet with such suc.cess as would enable them to proceed with the work at once. He also alluded to the necessity of being punctual in their attendance at worship, &c. The meeting was then addressed by a number of gentlemen, and the proceedings terminated in the usual manner.

In connection with the anniversary of tUo Pukekohe Wesleyan Church, a most successful soiree was held on March 2. An excellent spread was laid in the Protestant Hall, the meeting being afterwards held in the cbapel, which was densely crowded. A new American- organ, recently purchased at a cost of £33, and played by Miss Do Cartaret, was an attractive feature of the evening. £25 had alrealy been subscribed towards the cost of it. After devotional exetcisca, Mr. if. Hobbs was called to the chair, and in the remarks ho made, took occasion to refer to the coincidence that the 2nd of March was the anniversary of thu death of the founder of Methodism. The choir having sung " How beautiful upon the mountains," Mr. Maunders, of Mauku, made a brief and practical speech, wishing the Pukekolie Wesleyans many happy returns of the day ; following whom was Mr. Uoo.se, the treasurer, who, after reading a statement of accounts, from which it app?ared that there was a ba'ance of some £70 on the wrong side of tho sheet, gave some interesting reminiscences of the district some twenty years ago. The choir then sang a grand hymn out of Wesley's collection, followed by a few remarks from Mr. Morgan. Then came from the choir the stirring piccj of Sankey's, "Bright for evermore." Mr. Beaumont, of Auckland, now appeared on the platform, and for a length of time, in his own peculiar styl-*, interested and amused the audience, relating various exploits which, as a lay preacher, ho had achieved. The choir then rendered that plaintive piece, "It is well." Mr. Isitt followed with a felicitous speech on " Crossing the Line," enlarging upon which ho had lines business matrimonial, teetotal, and ecclesiastical. " By and by " bain? than sung by the choir, Mr. Frazer, from the West Coast, related, among other naatters, how the Kov. Mr. Garliok, tho former miuister of Pukekolie circuit, was successfully carrying on proaching and pastoral work in his present splioro. After tho choir singing " I am praying for you," and tho usual voto of thauks to tho ladies, choir, aud chairman, tho meoting was brought to a closo at a late hour by singing tho Doxology, Mr. Isitt pronouncing tho benodiation.

An annual gathering, to cclobrnte tho anniversary of tlio Shipwrights' Association of Auckland, was hoUl on tho sth March, at tho Cook-streot Hall. Thoro was a largo gatkoring of about 150, including tho wives ami sweethearts of tho members and visitors, ami a notieoablc feature was tho appoaranco of many scions of old stooka, who appeared liappy, hearty, aud koaltky on tlio scene of

enjoyment. The ball was handsomely decorated with festoons of flags. Mr. Bislop, representative of the Engineers' Society, Mr, Connolly, representative of the Hibernian Society, and a representative of the Joiners' Society were present. The first part of the programme was a supper, to which all sat down. Mr. Cornish occupied the chair, and after the viands had been disposed of, he proposed ' the toasts of " The Queen and Royal Family," "H.R.H. the Prince of Wales," " His Excellency the Governor," and the toa3t of "The Kindred Societies." The latter toast was responded to by Sir. Hislop, who referred to the mntaal advantages gained by gatherings of this sort, and alluded especially to the number of young people whom he saw present with their parents and friends. Mr. Hislop then proposed the toast of " The Shipwrights' Association," to which the Chairman responded. The toasts of "The Ladies" and "The Press" were proposed and warmly received, after which the tables were cleared. A bill followed, Mr. J. Ryan officiating as M.C., and Mrs. Hurst presiding at the piano. The programme of dances was a good one, and the intervals were filled by songs. Altogether, a very pleasant evening was spent. The tirst regular meeting of the Otahuhu Mutual Improvement Association was held in the ante-room of the Public Ball, on Monday evening, Bth March. There wa3 a fair attendance of both ladies and gentlemen. Mr. Jno. Fairburn, the president for the year, occupied the chair. After the reading of the minntes. the programme for the session was brought np, and, after some discussion, completed and adopted, and further ordered to be printed, for distribution among members. The president then delivered his inaugural address, which occupied some time in delivery, and was listened to with attention. The address reviewed the work of the past session, and spoke of it, upon the whole, a3 having been productive of substantial good. The address gave in rapid review biographical sketches of a large number of men in the humbler walks of life, who had become illustrious in their several spheres through perseverance and devotedness of purpose. On the motion of the Rev. Mr. Gould, seconded by Mr. Bowden, a cordial vote of thanks was accorded to the president for his address. Mr. Mcllroy voluntarily gave a recitation — " Lord Ullin's Daughter"—which was well delivered. Mr. G. Willis gave a reading, entitled " Good Reading," which was very appropriate to the time and place. At a public meeting of farmerß, held at the Criterion Hotel, Otahuhu, on 10th March, a series of resolutions were passed in reference to the outbreak of plenro-pneumonia. Mr. Goodfellow presided. The meeting was influentially attended, and a great deal of interest was manifested in the proceedings. The first resolution adopted was :—"That, in the opinion of the met ting, it was the imperative duty of the Government to adopt measures to prevent the spread of the disease, by appointing professional inspectors, and ordering that all imported cattle be quarantined." The second resolution dwelt on the necessity of having professional inspectors, and named Messrs. Naden and Kinloch to be forthwith appointed, with full powers to isolate or destroy cattle liable to spread contagion. A committee was appointed to submit the resolutions to the Government and the Cattle Board, and this concluded the business of the meeting.

The annual meeting of the Waipu Literary Association was held on 26th of February, in the Central School-room.—The President (Mr. H. Matthews) occupied the chair. Mr. K. M. McLennan, secretary and trea surer, read the report and balance-sheet for the past year, which he said was not equal to the preceding year in the matter of income. He also said that through some legal flaw or other the library which is connected with the Association got no subsidy from Government ; there were, therefore, fewer new books and less attraction for subscribers. Messrs. A. and J. M. McKay, auditors, examined tho accounts, and found them correct. The meeting then proceeded to elect officers and members of the committee for the ensuing year. Mr. J. M. McKay, after paying Mr. tf. Matthews a number of well-deserved compliments for past services, proposed that he be re-elected president. Seconded by Mr. A. P. Campbell, and passed unanimously. Mr. K. M. McLennan was re-elected secretary and treasurer.

On Monday, March 15, the annual meeting of the members of the Auckland Acclimatisation Society was held in the Museum Buildings. The attendance was good. The report, which, was a very favourable one, was adopted. The accounts showed a debit balance ; but this is a matter for little concern, seeing that the game licences will soon become due, when from £500 to £600 will be added to the funds. A statement was read detailing tho times and places of distribution of younj trout since the Society began to engage in this useful vrork. The chairman (Mr. Bardtow) said from a recent investigation he was satisfied that the trout placed in Edgecumbe's Creek some ten years ago had not all died, a3 was expected, but that they had multiplied, and were to be found in considerable numbers now. He did not see any, but had been informed that the settlers in tho viciuity had been more fortunate on several occasions, and made no report of the success. If Mr. Barstow's anticipations are correct, efforts should be made by the Society to have a permanent breeding establishment constructed, so that a supply of ova or young fish could be available every season for distribution in creeks and streams now barren of the brown trout. Officers and a council of management were appointed.

The annual meeting of members of the Onehunga Ladies' Benevolent Society was held on .vlarch 12. The Mayor, Mr. Codlin, was asked to preside. About twenty persons only were present. Tho seventeenth annual report of tbe committee, giving some detail of the cases relieved, &c., was read by the Rev. T. Hamer. The treasurer's report, which only extended over nine moaths, showed that £24 7a had been received from subscribers, and £19 15s, the proceeds of an entertainment, the whole of which ha l been expended in relieving distress, except £1 9s 2.1, balance in hand. It was expla ned by the present treasurer that he was unable to furnish any particulars of receipts and expenditure for the first three months of the year, the gentleman who had acted as treasurer during that time having left without furnishing, by an oversight, any statement of accounts to that time. The whole of the money received had, however, expeuded, and the income was stated at very insufficient for the requirements. A vote of thanks was passed to the ladies of the committee for the time aud care they had devoted to this necessary work. The meeting also desired to place on record their high appreciation of the medical skill and kindness shown by the gratuitous services rendered by the late Dr. Zinzan. The former committee was then re-elected, with the addition of three names to till vacancies.

The annual concert in connection with the Presbyterian Church, Ngaruawahia, was held on Wednesday, the 17th of March, in the schoolhouse, Hamilton Newell, Esq , in the chair, and for attendance and musical p -oficiency it was an unprecedented success. Several la-lies from this neighbourhood took part in tho concert, and Mesdamc-s Dickenson, Good, Turner, and Rookes gave success to the entertainment by the brilliant manner in which they rendered their different pieces. Mrs. Culpan, of Hamilton, aud Mrs. I'avidson, of Auckland, sang with their accustomed sweetness, and the songs, " Let Me Dream Again," and " Waiting," by the former, and "To-morrow," and "When Sparrows Build," by the latter, were much appreciated by the large audience. The songs, "My Grandfather's Clock," and "Timothy Bags," were sung with great gusto by Mr. Popple, tli« latter eliciting roars of laughter from young and old. Mr. and Mrs. Brooks, of Cambridge, gave avery pretty duet on the harmonium and flute. Mr. Brooks also sang several songs. A solo upon the fine new church harmonium was played by Mr. A. J. Evans, of Cambridge, who also sang two excellent songs. We must not forget to mention Mr. Turner, who convulsed the audience with laughter by his very amusing songs, "Tho Elderly Beau" and "Pretty Jemima." Two glees, "The War Soug of the Druids" and " Lightly Tread," were beautifully rondered by a number of ladies and gentlemen. Altogether the concert was a great sucoess, and we hope will be the forerunner of mmy more of tho same sort. Tho proceeds of the entertainment amounted to £11.

On March 5 the Aratapu public hall was crowdod with a respectable aud intelligent atidienco, who came to listen to addresses by Messrs. Caughey, Hogg, and others upon the teetotal question. At 7.30 p.m., the Rev. F. T. Baker was called to tho chair, and mado a short opening address. After opening tho proceedings, the chairman called upon tho Rev. A. C. Caughoy (a visitor) to rocito "No Sects in Heaven," which was graphically given, and much appreciated. The next was an address by Mr. William Hogg, of Auckland, who gavo tho audienco his reasons for being an abstainer, and

dwelt ' for fifteen minntes upon the various influences" capable of being applied to the suppression of the liquor trade. He was followed by one of the workmen here (Mr. W. W. Simons), who gave a really good speech, which was listened to most attentively throughout. Mr. Caughey then recited the stirring " Los 3 of the Schiller," which was a masterpiece. The same gentleman then gave a lucid and earnest address ; the proceedings being closed by a speech from the chairman, setting forth his views of the question. The meeting was much enlivened by popular singing from Moody and Sankey's collection, Mr. Higgs giving his services with much kindness to this part of the programme. A considerable number signed the total abstinence pledge, and all went to their homes feeling that there was much material for thought presented by the meeting. The Bombay anniversary fete took place on Thursday, March IS. This is the annual treat kept up in commemoration of the arrival of the ship Bombay in Auckland, it being fifteen years since she was towed in dismasted by the man-of-war then cruising about the coast. Long before the time for the sports to commence, numbers of people were seen wending their way towards the school, and at about 3 o'clock betwe-n two and three hundred people had assembled on the school grounds and a paddock lent for the occasion belonging to Mr. C. W. Andrews, when about 100 prizes were run for by the children. A great number than adjourned to the school, where abundance of refreshments was provided, and it was every one's own fanlt if they did not have plenty to eat and drink. In the evening the school was crowded to excess, friends having arrived from all the surrounding districts. Singing and dancing were kept up with great spirit under the management of Mr. W. Sawyer, jun., till about 4 a m., when all went home, seemingly well satisfied with their day and night's amusement. A weli-att=nded meeting was held on Saturday, March 20, in the school-room, Hakaru, the object for which the meeting was held being to consider how far it was possible to introduce measure* that wonld promote a more constant succession of religious privileges to the inhabitants of the entire district. The Rev. W. Gitto-t presided. The Chairman opened the meeting by reading a short passage of Scripture appropriate to the occasion. The Rev. Mr. Coughey engaged in prayer. After some discussion it was ur animously decided to elect a committee to watcti over the interests of those who were not identified with the Presbyterians of the district. The following gentlemen were duly elected a committee of management—viz., Messrs. A. K-l ! y (chairman), Arch. Stewart, T. Starch, A. Stewarr, J. Bowmar, W. Leslie, and T. W. Dowson, the latter being appointed secretary and convener. Messrs. Lesli', Bowmar, and Dowson were deputed to wait upon the Presbyterian Church Committee, and ascertain upon what terms the church could be had. The meeting also decided to establish a Snnday-school at Hakaru. A B'ble class is to be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Coughey. The Aratapu Mutual Improvement Society is an established institution, and, although only a babe of days, bids fair for a robust and healthy life of usefulness and pleasure. The executive are as follows :—President, R. Monk, Esq. ; Viee-Prfsident, Mr. E. C. Carr; Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. Thomas Webb; with the following committee: — Messrs. Jone3, Sheffield, Wrigley and Wright. All these are of purpose, who intend the society to succeed. (Jur session is a quarterly one, and our programme includes debates, essays, and entertainments. We have already had stirring debates upon " Home Rule," "Social Equality," " Liberty," and to-night Mr. Joseph Sheffield will open a debate, affirming that "Intoxicating Liqnors are both Useless and Injurious," from a dietetic standpoint, and a lively evening is expected. The annual soiree in connection with St. Luke's Presbyterian Chnrch, Remuera, was held on Tuesday, in the church building. Notwithstanding that the weather was rather unfavourable, by reason of high winds and dust, there was a large attendance. Upwards of 150 eat down to tea, the tables being pruviied by Mrs. Monro, Mrs. J. M. Clark, Mrs. James Htewart, Mrs. J. M. Lennox, Mrs. Rattray, Mrs. William Denuison, Mrs. Rowe, Mrs. Mains, Mrs. Angus. A public meeting was held in the church after tea, the intervals of the addresses being varied with selections of sacred music by the choir and several ladies of the district.

The members of the Whangaroa Glee Club gave their first concert on March 17, in the school-house, which was crowded to standing in the porch. The concert was a complete success throughout, and Miss Stephenson deserves great credit for the efficiency of the members by the true rendering of their different parts in the trios, duets, and choruses. ATHLETICS. The seventh athletic meeting of the Amateur Athletic Club was h;-ld on March 13, on the Domain cricket-ground. The weather was all that could be desired for the holding of athletic sports, and there was, therefore, a large attendance of the public to witness them. Although the fields were as large as at former m°eting3, the races were not nearly so iutere3ting, simply because the men had not doue sufficient training. For instance, in the mile race seven started, but only three completed the distance. This is not a3 it should be, and it is to be hoped that the next sports that the club hold the men will have done sufficient training to fit them for contesting in the various races. With the exception of two or three, none were really in fit condition to contest a race. Ropes had been p'a:el on one side of the course to keep the crowd off the running ground, and proved a great improvement on the former state of things. The Artillery Band enlivened the proceedings throughout the afternoon with some excellent music. Messrs. J. E. Macdonald and E. lv. Tyler acted as judges, and their decisions gave the greatest satisfaction to all parties. Mr. T. Henderson, jun., acted as starter, aud Mr. Buckland as t me-keeper. The committee, with commendable punctuality, adhered strictly to the time for the starting of each event, and the sports were cjncluded about 5 o'clock,

PRESENTATIONS. The Rev. W. Gitto3 preached to a crowded congregation, assembled in the school house, Hakaru, on Sunday afternoon, February 22nd. The rev. gentleman delivered au earnest and impressive sermoD, from the words contained in the 14th and two following verse 3 of the sth chapter of St. Matthew. On the following Tuesday, a public tea meeting was held in the same building. The tea was announced to be held at 3 p.m. Unfortunately for th?se interested, aud just at about the hour when many persons would be leaving their home 3 for the purpose of attending the anticipated treat, a thunderstorm, accompanied with heavy rain, came on, cnmplet-ly drenching those on their way thither. The storm had the effect of keeping many anxious persons from attending the day's festivities. Consequently, instead of the very large concourse that would otherwise have been present, the number at tea only amounted to 150. The interior of the building was artistically decorated with luxuriant evergreens, the effect of which was most pleasing and invigorating. About four o'clock, tsa was dispeused by the following ladies, who had graciomly provided trays : —Mrs. Arch. Stewart, Mrs. McMillan, Mrs. Leslie, Mrs. Prince, Mrs. Mooney, Mrs. Sturch, Miss Kelly, and Miss Sarah. The tea and arrangements were simply excellent. The after proceedings were as follow:—Psalm, "All People that on Eartb," Mrs. Gittos presiding at the piano ; prayer, by the Rev. T. G. Brooke. Mr. F. H. Hull, J. P., was elected to the chair, on the motion of the Rev. Mr. Gittos. After an introductory speech bv the chairman, Mr. A. Kelly delivered, an address, towards the close of which, turning to the Rev. Mr. Gittos, be said: — "Dear sir,—lt is now my pleasing duty to offer you, in the name of the donors, this purse, containing 30 sovs., trusting you will accept of it as a slight recognition of the esteem and affection you are held in by residents of this district." Mr. Kelly resumed his seat amid loud applsnae. —Rev. W. Gittos : Mr. Chairman, Christian friends, —It would be difficult for me to find words in which to express all I feel on the present occasion. There are times in our lives when all we can say only falls veryfar short of of what wo feel, aud I think, if I wero to venturo on any lengthy expressions of thanks, it would be a total failure. Let me then, dear friends, simply say that I do thank you most sincerely aud heartily for your expression of kindly feeling, and aho for the very substantial proof of your regard aud appreciation of any attempt I have made to minister to your spiritual necessities. I accept your handsome present and while I feel grateful for your benefit cence, I feel even more so for the kind in. dulgence you have ever Bhown to me, when weakness and other circumstances have pre-

vented my doing all that baa been in my heart to do for you. I assure you I shall do my best to comply -with your earnest request to minister to yon in future. My new colleague, Mr. Caughey, who will supersede Mr. Brooke, will, I am sure, be kindly received and appreciated by you. May God greatly ble6s you, my friends, and cause His face to shine upon yoa, and may the future for you all be happy, prosperous, as God may see fit to grant. On behalf of myself, wife, and family, I heartily thank you for the kindness you have ever shown whenever we have visited Hakaru. The rev. gentleman sat down amid vociferous cheering.— Other speeches ana pieces of music followed, after which the usual votes of thanks were pi33ed, and the meeting separated. A very pleasing ceremony took place at the Church of England Grammar J-chool on Thursday afternoon, March 25. The parents and friends of the pupils assembled to make a presentation to Mr. Adams, the late head master, to bid him " farewell " before leaving Auckland to assume the head mastership of the Thames Bigh School. Tfce school-room was tastefully decorated Several mottoes exhibited the kindly feeling of the boys towards their late teacher. The Bishop of Auckland (the Right Eev. Dr. Cowie), in making the presentation, spoke highly of Mr. Adams's efficiency as a master and of the success that had attended his work during his term of the office of head master, extending over more than eight year?. Herbert L. James then read the address, which is elegantly illuminated with a fern scroll, and Mr. Adams was presented with six valuable volumes, five of which were Mr. Bancroft's interesting work on the races of the shores of the South Pacific, and ths sixth " Hochstetter's New Zealand." Mr. Adams, in thanking his young friends for their kindness, spoke in feeling terms of the steady support he received from the parents of the boys, and the judicious assistance always rendered to the school by tho Bishop. He said that he was leaving tfce school in full working order, with an excelled t tone existing in all the classes, and that the boys could not do him greater honour than in maintaining and preserving the same tone with his successor. He said that their valuable present, enhanced a 9 it was by the presence of his dearest and best friends, would be a* monument to him of the happiest years he had spent in school-teaching. The address was signed by all the pupils. At the conclusion of the ceremony, they gave three cheers for their late headmaster, thres cheers for Bishop Cowie, and three cheers for Master Herbert James, who is, one of the most distinguished pupils in the school, and son of Mr. James, secretary to the Board of the Grammar School. The talent displayed iu illuminating and engrossing the address is very great.

Mr. Kenneth McDonald has very liberally presented to the Church committee at Waipu a very suitable and valuable site for the erection of an Episcopalian Church.

INQUESTS A2»D ACCIDENTS. A correspondent writes from Aratapu to state that a boat accident occurred at that placa on the 29th January, which has not been reported, and, as the cause was drink, he thinks it should be made public. At about 11 o'clock on the day in question, three men belonging to the barque Wellington, named Mitchell, Coyle, and Ellis, manned the gig for the purpose of bringing the captain on board. They .vere somewhat intoxicated at the time, and managed the boat badly. A puff of wind caught the boat, and capsized her. The man Coyle was in the most helpless condition of any of the three, and could make no effort to save himself from drowning. A boat put off from a schooner lying near in the river, and was just in time to save Coyle from a witery grave, just as he was on the point of sinking. The correspondent thinks some steps should be taken to prevent the sale of spirits on board the steamers trading on the VTairoa, which, if carried out, would tend much to make such accidents fewer than they unfortunately are.

The body of a drowned man was discovered on 14th March, at an early hour, floating in the harbour, just outsiie the reclamation works at the foot of Hobson-street. It appears that at about a quarter-past Go clock on Sunday morning last a young man named Ryan, who was going down to his boat, observed the body of a man floating in tV.e water close to the reclamation embankment. With the assistance of a Mr. Green, who was in the vicinity, he got the body ashore, and then Mr. Green went and informed the police of the circumstance. Sergeant Clarke and a constable went at once to the place indicated, and took possession of the body, which they conveyed to the morgue at Freeman's Bay to await an ingufst. The body was only partially clothed, ia shirt and trousers, but a coat and hat were found hung on a post within about

twenty yards of the plaee where the body was fouod. The body i 3 that of a Mr. Hubert

Hind, a native of the North of Ireland, and aged about 50 yea r s. An inquest was held on Monday, at the Freeman's Hotel, Freeman's Bay, when the jury, after viewing the body and bearing the evidence, returned a verdict of " Fouud drowned."

A dreadful accident, resulting in the death of a man named William Blestowe, provedore of the steamer Coromandel, wa3 discovered to have occurred in the caisson chamber of th draving dock on Thursday, March 11. The steamer was in the graving dock undergoing repairs. Mr. Blestowe, who was a man of very steady, sober habits, left the vessel on the previous evening to proceed up the town, and wa3 last seen alive about 10 o'clock on that night, when he left the Aurora Hotel, Victoria-street, to return to the stsamer. The crew were greatly surprised on the 11th March at the disappearance of the provedore, and the mate observed a hat floating in the caisson chamber. This was picked up, and at once recognised as that which deceased wore. Information was sent to the police statioD, and in the meantime a pair of grapnels were procured. \Vith these the men proceed-d to drag the caisson chamber, and the bodywas soon brought to the surface, and conveyed to a shed rear the dock, to await an inquest. There is a severe scalp wound on the left side of the head. It is evident that Mr. Blestowe, in returning to the vessel, and while crossing the end of the caisson-top, had stumbled and pitched headforemcst into the chasm of the chamber. It is by no mea'is an easy task, especially in the dark, to cros3 this place, aad there certainly should be some proteclion or a safer crossing constructed. The wound on the head must have produced insensibility immediately, thus accounting for the fact that no cry for help was heard. Mr. Blestowe, who was muali respected by the officers and crew of the vessel, as well as by the traveling public with whom he was brought iu contact, leaves a wife and five youn» children at Coromandel to mourn their lo3s. An inquest on the remains was held on' March 12, when the jury returned the following verdict :— " We find that the deceased, Wm. Blestowe, met hi* death by falling into the caisson chamber of the Auckland dock, but whether by drowning or by the blow austaine 1 from coming in contact with the stone wall, there is no evidence to show. .At the same time, we find that the Harbour Board authorities have shown great negligence in not having taken precautions to light the locality or fasten the gate, so as t) prevent persons entering."

A lad, nine years of ge, n-m:d John Thomas, experienced one of the moat marvelous escapes from death on the lotli March, which has been recorded for some time. It appears that, about six o'clock on Monday evening, the lal was sent to a well, in the back yard of the large wooden premises owned by Mrs. Outhwaite, at the corner of Princes-street and Waterloo Quadrant. Aftsr having wound the bucket, full of water, to the top, he essayed to lift it to the landing. He overbalance!, and tumbled headlong into the well, falling a depth of fully SO fee 1 -, and singular to say, he reached the bottom without injury. A brother of the lad was in the vicinity, and he called Mrs. Frith, wife of Mr. Frith, the photographer, who resides in the vicinity. tslie promptly answered to the call. The bucket was lowered, and the | poor lad, who managed to maintain his position on the surface of the water by scrambling against the clay sides of the well, caught hold ot the rope, and got on to the bucket. Mrs. Frith and the lad wound the rope up carefully, but, after reaching about half-way up, he lost his hold and tumbled back into the water. The bucket was again carefully lowered, and again the lad got into it. This time his rescuers and himself were more fortunate, for he was brought to the surface. He was of course greatly frighted at his terrible experience, and his hands were cut and chafed by the rope, but otherwise he is uninjured.

As Mr. Alexander Fleming was returning from the evening service held in St Columba Church, Warkworth, Mahurangi on Sanday. March 14, he fell over the cliff near Mr. G. Thomson's boarding-house and was seriously injured. He feU on his head receiving a severe contusion on the left eye' cutting his face very much, and otherwise seriously injuring himself. The fall stunned

Kr Tk ™'. when te waa broi, 3ht to Mr. Thomson's honse the blood wag flowing from bin wounds. The Dart of »L w , bere { f over >3 about e?ght feefcin height, acid almost perpendicular. Juia street, which leads to the poat-offi-e t , graph station, Christ Church, Public Ha'V Columba Church; £c„ is the pri n ~p!l thoroughfare of the township, and Uj n ' very dangerous state. About two yea-, since the Road Board lowered this oorHr'n ot the street, leaving a steep bank on side, to all appearance resembling street, where Copeland's corn e£rr stands, in the year 1545. Several accident, have occurred here since this cnttine wa« made, and only a short time since a ladv tell over. J

Late on Thursday, March IS, a vc-ry serioa? accident occurred to a little boy named Hart, who resides with his father, a man recently from England, and nowliri-? in Grey street. The little fellow about three years of age, was playing with some of his brothers and sistere in the back yard with an axe or tomahawk, and an'm. fortunate stroke with the implement aim - * s *" cut off the two middle fingers of the r ; hand. When takeu up, the poor chi'fd'a finders were hanging to the hand by a taa of skin, the bona being c!eanly severer' The services of Dr. Tennent, in the nei'-'hbour hood, were immediately obtained, Ind he adjusted the bones of each finder, and is trying to get the bone 3 to unite" and t'-us prevent, if possible, the mutilation of the hand.

Constable lgoe, on duty on the Qne»n-street Wharf, effected a clever rescue of a drowning man about 11 p.m. on March 18. At about the time stated the constable's attention was attracted by cries of distress, appveatlv proceeding from beneath the North Shcrs ferry tee. There was a man in the water so, procuring a rope from the steamer Enter', prise, the constable dropped it over the side. The man, who proved to be John Simmon*, mate of the Gipsy schooner, managed to catch the rope, and with the aid of the chief officer of the ship Earl Granville, he Wis drawn ashore. Ihe constable took him t > the statinn, and had his wet clothe 3 removed and dry blankets substituted.

On the 23rd March, Waterman Holbrook narrowly escaped drowning. He left Qoeenstreet Wharf about 3 o'clock to proceed to St. George's Bay, though there was a strong southerly gale blowing at the time. As he reached the end ot the Railway Wharf, a sudden squall capsized the boat. He clung to the bottom to prevent drowning. A boat put off from the Elsinore schooner, and rescued Holbrook. A gig from the Cormorant, police boat, and the Customs launch aIBO proceeded to tlolbrook's assistance, and aided in saviDg the mast, sails, &c.

We are glad to learn that the carter, Michaal Macnamec, who was so dangerously injured cn 2Sth February, by beinrf kicked by one of the horses of which he had cbar<", that his life was despaired of, i 3 progressing favourably towards recovery. He will be greatly disfigured. His cheek and jiw bones were broken, and one of his eyes destroyed, but under the care of Dr. PhiUon, and the skilled attendance he is receiving at the bo-pital, it is hoped that a permanent care will be effected.

An inquest was held at Te Rore on March 13, to inqure into the death of Mr. William Chester, agent for the Waikato Steam Company, who was killed by his horse falling on him on Wednesday last, deceased dying next day. The verdict was "accidental death." The deceased's funeral, which took place immediately afterwards, was largely attended by the settlers from all parts of the district. The deceased leave 3 a wife and a large family. FIRE*. On Thursday, March 4, a destructive fire occurred at East Tamaki. It appears that Mr. and Mrs. Bovaird bad left their farm, in the Tamaki district, on a visit to Auckland. The house was left in charge of a son, who has reached manhood. It appeals that about 3 o'clock some of the neighbours noticed that Mr. Bovaird's residence was on fire. The house was a well-furnished mxroomed residence, upon which there was no insurance. On the alarm being given, Mr. W. S. Styak hurried to the place, and, in conjunction with other settlers who came on the scene, rendered what aid wa3 possible, but the fire appears to have had a very firm hold upon the building before it was n -tice l, and, notwithstanding all efforts to save the building, it was completely destroyed. Some grass and oaten hay (towards which the wind blew the flames and sparks) wt re saved, but with the destruction of the house and furniture are from GO to 70 bag* of wheat. Mr. Bovaird's ioss is a heavy one, estimated at nearly £400. No account has yet been given of the origiD, or suspected origin, of the fire.

On March 23. about eleven o'clock p.m., the fire-bells rang out an alarm. The reflection of the fire indicated that its location was somewhere in the neighbourhood of Kyfcer Pas 3 Koad or Mount Eden district. The Salvage Corp3, u-idtr the charge of Captain Butler, at one 3 proceeded to the soens of danger, and the members of the Fire Brigade mustered in readiness should their s2rvices be required. The brigade, however, did not leave town. The fire was found to have occurred in a cottage owned and occupied by Mr. William Webb, painter. The cottage contained three rooms, was not quite finished, though occupied by Mr. Webb, his wife, snd two children. The family escaped unhurt, but the house and contents were destroyed. The building was insured in the New Zealand Insurance Company for £100, but Mr. Webb estimates his loss as at least £50 in excess of his insurance.

A fire occurred at the Thamts on March 7, by whi:h a cottage,occupied by Mr. Aitken, hospital dispenser, and situated on the corner of Ma y aud Baillie-streets, was destroyed. Mr. Aitken left the house at half-paat 7 p.m. on March 6, and did not go back a?ain, as he spent the night in the hospital. The fire broke out about 6 in the morning. Mr. Aitken loses most of his clothinar, furniture, bed-ling, &c. Very little wassaved. The property was not insured. The tire brigades turned out very smartly, but could do very little towards saving the property, as the house was burned down in a few minutes.

On March 13 there was a narrow escape from a serious tire at the Ihames. The large Imperial Crown battery, standing on the beaah between the goods wharfand the HeraM battery, caught fire towards the rear of the building. Tae alarm was speedily given, and fortunately, by the help of a few'passersby, the fire was got under before any serious damage was done. A portion of the battery is used for grinding tailings, and it is supposed the fire originated through a spark from the small engine used for driving the berJans. OBITUARY. Mr. Thomas Birch, who was a passenger from Dun-din to Auckland by the Union Steamship Company's vessel Penguin, expired suddenly ou bard, on 12th c-f March. On the 12th of March, immediately cn the arrival of the ship, the facts were reported to the police, and a Coroner's inquisitijntook place. Dr. Goldsbro' made a post mortem examination, and found the heart in such a tsrtibly diseased state that be was surprised how the man could have lived so bng as he did. A verdict of death from na'.ural causes was recorded. Mr. Birch ha 3 held many prominent positions in the col ny, and was in every sense of the werd a public man. About the year 1565 he was Mayor of the City of Dunedin, and he served two sessions ia Parliament as member of the General Assembly. Subsequently he was appointed emigration agent in the home country for the province of Ctago, and afterwards had a similar appointment under the General Government. His most recent appointment wai that ot Government insurance agent at Dunedin. About three months ago Mr. Birch met with a very severe sfiliction. His wife died from the effects of injuries she received at a tire in Dunedin, and the loss preyed on his mind. He was in a weak state of health at the time ha took his passage, and the tempestuous voyage did not tend to improve him. He was en route to the Hot Springs, for the benefit of his health afc the time of his death. It had been arrano e d bv annmberof old Dunedin cttiz ns now resident m Auckland including Mr. John Grey, Mr. M l "' i hughes, Mr. Street, Mr. John fttpnH (4, f F night ' and others, to attend the funeral of the deceased, which was to have taken place on Sunday afternoon, but £ .Vll 1 ® 4 ™ a arrived from o? general manager of the Union a team Shipping Co. at Dunedin, to the local agents, that it was desired by numerous of the deceased that the remains should be forwarded to Dunedin by the return boat. This will accordingly be done, and we have no doubt the remains will be \r rr * n ceme 'ery of the city in which 1 . Birch bore such prominent positions with due honours. During the time Mr. Birch held the office of Mayor of Danedin the honour of entertaining H.B.H. the Duke of Edinburgh.

Old Hoterece Taipari, father of W. H. Taiparii and a chief of some consequence at the Thames, died on March 20, at his residence, Parawai. He lent considerable assistance in opening up the goidfield in the early days. He leaves a considerable a niount of landed property to his heirs, and it is stated has left £1000 to be spent over bis obsequies. It is probable that a large number of natives will attend the funeral. His aire was about SO. The Thames shlrerthcr has the following respecting the l«te chief : —Shortly before Chris'ma-t Uotereue was stricken with paralysis of tho stomach, and was compel'ed to take to his bed, from which he never again arose. Dr. Payne was called in. and after paying two or three visits he informed the sick man's relatives that there was no hope of his recovery. His friends then resolved to try and work a cure in their own way, and a Maori wizard named Tupa' a was sent for from Te Aroha. On his arrival Hotereno was placed und-. r his care, and th< n began the reading bf lengthy prayers for his recovery. At first the natives had great hopes in the wizard, but the invalid grew daily worse, and expired as above-mentioned, at the ripe old age ot SO, leaviug r. widow, son, and granddaughter to mourn their loss. The body, after being allowed to remain several hours in the tent in which death took place, was conveyed to the runanga house on the tlat, and deposited in a coffin which was placed in the porch of the building. On visiting the house yesterday, the coflin was resting on benches, and was covered with a black velvet pall, trimmed with yellow, the head of deceased being raised, and decorated with feathers. His aged widow, Victoria, was sitting at the side of the bier bruahing the flies away with a b'uo silk flag. According to Maori custom, the top and sides of her head were shaved. Hotere's greenstone meres—five iu number—and the whole of his mats, were hanging on the wall near his head and his nearrst relatives were reclining on the floor of the porch, with blankets rouud them. They will not leave the corpse uutil it is interred, which will be done after his friends and relatives have held a grand tangi over his remains. The deceased was a fine specimen of the old school of Maoris. He was born at Kirikiri in the beginning of the present century, and waa only a lad when the great fight took place on Totara Point, in which many of his relatives took part. He was the head man of the Ngatiinaru tribe, and a chief c,f the Ngatipaoa rnd Nga tiwhanaunga hapus ; and he also exercised a powerful influence over the members of each. Shortly after the arrival of the missionaries here, Hoterene became a convert to Chris tiauity, and was appoiuted teacher of a large church in tlie Kauwaerangi Valley, and ever sinej he has been a very religions man. He was maiuly instrumental in opening the goldfield, the knowledge he had obtained from the missionaries respeciing tho Europeans having had a good deal to do with his action in this matter, and for some months he was the owner of the largest portion of the township. Soon after the field opened he sold » portion of the property to Mr. Robert Graham, and at the time of his death he was the owner of a large portion of the township of Shortland, from which he derived a handsome income. For several years previous to his demise he was a strict teetotaller, and did nis utmost to keep bis people from indulging iu drink, and many a time be might have been seen attending the soirees of the local temperance societies. About eighteen months ago he built the carved house at parawai at a cost of nearly £2000, in order that all poor Maoris might have a piaca in which to reside when passing through the Thames, and that matters affecting the interests of the natives might be settled there. The deceased left no will, but Captain Taipari will succeed to the property, which is very valuable. Mr. George A. Avey, an old and wellknown resident in Auckland, expired on 26th March, at his residence, Karangahape Road. Mr. Avey, since hia arrival in Auckland, sixteen years ago, has carried on business as hotelkeeper in various parts of the city. He was proprietor of the Park Hotel, Wellesleystreet East, up to March 23, and'it was only on that day that he removed with his family to the house where he expired. Mr. Avey has been a sufferer for many years from gout and other affections. tn December last Avey died, and he never completely recovered from the shock caused by her death. Indeed, since that event he made up his mind to retire altogether from business, but the arrangements for the sale of the lease of his hotel were only completed a few days since. Mr. Avey leaves a daughter and two son 3 to mourn their bereavement.

Mr. H. F. YV. Colson, well known in Auckland and at the Thames for the active interest he manifested for no any years in athletic sport?, expired on March 2, at the district hospital. Mr. Colaon's knowledge of cricket and football games especially rendered him quite an authority on such matters, and in many of the most important match-s played here he officiated as umpire. He was also captain of the Auckland team of cricketers which played against the Canterbury team -when the latter visited Auckland. Recently Mr. Colson has been employed on the staff of the jS r orlha n Advocate, but his health having given way, he was brought to town a few days ago, an i placed in the hospital, where he expired on Tuesda3 T . It will be observed, on reference to our obituary columns, that anothtr very old colonist ha 3 been removed from the scenes in which she has moved for mauy years. We refer to the w;fe of Mr. C. A. Harris, timber merchant. She came here with her husband in 1543, and throughout her colonial career has been distinguished by kindness of heart and acts of charity. LAW. The law vacation terminated on the 10th ot March. Mr. Justice Gillies and Miv. Gillies proceeded to Europe by the last mail, where they will stay until the end of the present year. Mr. Ju&tice Richmond has arrived in Aucklan, and sits in chambers twice a week, holding the usual ■weekly sittings in banco. No case of im portance has been heard yet—the decisions being upon technical points arising out of pleadings. There have been a few bankruptcies, but th est.tes for division have been virtually nil. The Crown sittings (circuit Court), for gaol delivery, will be held cm Monday next, the sth of April. DRAMA. The theatre has been closed during the whole of the time =ince the departure of the last mail. Mr. DeLias, the proprietor, is in Sydney. Theatrical business, he says, doss not pay in Auckland, But he is a standing proof that; it the theatre "has fallen upon evil times" (wh : ch is the common lot), it can be made to pay. But how ? The answer must be discovered by those whose special business it is to plea=e the public. Indeed, the theatre ha?; been advertised for sale, and it would not be surprising if some day the "pretty" bouse were turned into an auction mart, a fish or bacon-curing establishment, a corn store, or a draper's (< showI'*1 '* room. MISCELLANEOUS. In the Wainganoma Xo. 2 Block rehea;in«, judgment was delivered by Judge lial.se, = on Thursday, the 25th of March, contirming the final decision by Judge Eojan, which has the effect of making good a title now held by the City of Glasgow Bank's representatives. It is for a block of land containing 2800 acre?, on which the Glasgow Batik lias spent £25,000, conveyed by the original grantees to Mr. Robert Cooper. It is a moat important decision for the district, and the case has been well fought, lasting three weeks. Mr. llees appearing for the natives, and Mr. Brassey is to be congratulated on the success of the case. The whole of the native?, including the vendors, combined to upset the decision.

Captain Kennedy, of the s.s. Hawea, which arrived on the 4th March from the East Coast, reports that the whole of the Bay of Plenty, from Whakatane to the Island of Karena, off the mouth of Tauranga harbour, is covered with myriads of dead fish, floating on the surface of the water. Having to wait at Tauranga Heads for the tide, the passengers threw over lines, but were unsuccessful in catching live fish, which usually abounds at that place. The dead fish were of all kinds. It is conjectured that the extraordinary mortality amongst the denizens of the deep is owing to some extraordinary submarine volcanic explosion in the vicinity of White Island.

Dr. Haines, the medical officer in charge of the immigrants by the Earl Granville, at Motuilii, has reported to the Immigration Ollicer that three of bis patients have died. A w'.dow, named Margaret McMeamy, aged forty-six, died on March 20, from sun-stroke ~ and a single woman, namtd Bridget Kairns, aged twenty-three years, died of low fever on March 22. Another of the single women, named Honora Mulloy, died on March 24, from the same complaint, and was buried duriuT the day. The health of the remaining passengers of tke Earl Granville is reported as good.