TOWN & COUNTRY.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 657, 26 September 1884, Page 16

TOWN & COUNTRY.

W. W. McArdle, Esq., is gazetted a member of the Wellington Land Board.

Last week’s Gazette declares Mauritius no longer an infected place under the Public Health Act.

G. G. Gillon, Esq., M. 8., C.M., is gazetted as a member of the honorary medical staff of the Wellington Hospital. J. Rutherford Blair, Esq., has been appointed a Governor of Wellington College, vice Colonel Leckie, deceased.

Captain Babot, the representative of the Shaw, Savill, and Albion Company, requests that all monevs collected for the survivors of the wreck of the Lastingham be sent in as soon as possible.

Alfred Colville, of Temuka, has applied for a patent for an invention for the winnowing of grain and grass, styled “ Ooieville s Patent Improved grain and Grass Winnowing Machine.”

In presenting the petition against the Napier Harbor Board Bill in the House yesterday week, Dr Newman remarked that the measure against which the petition had sardonically been drawn up was the one concerning which he had been burnt in effigy. His kinsman had had his shoulder dislocated through the effigy burning ceremony.

At the election last week for seven Commissioners to form the Retone Town Board the following were elected :—Messrs Kirk, 64 ; Buick, 61 ; Johnson, 4S ; Curtis, 42 ; Carter, 40 ; Battersby, 40 ; and Jackson, 38. The unsuccessful candidates were :• — Udy, 34 ; Joplin, 25 ; Witcher, 22 ; Brown* 20 ; Edmonds, 19 ; and Trueman, 16. People who busy themselves about the religious leanings of politicians have discovered that the present Cabinet is composed of gentlemen of widely differing opinions. It is said there are two Roman Catholics (Messrs Buckley and Tole), one Jew (Sir Julius Vogel), two Freethinkers (Messrs Stout and Ballance), one Presbyterian (Mr Reynolds), and one Episcopalian (Mr Richardson).

The adjourned meeting of the New Zealaod Leather Manufacturing Company was well attended last night week, when the following, resolution, proposed by Mr McTavish, and seconded by Mr A. Baker, was carried unanimously - —“ That the contract dated the 19th day of August, and made between the Company on the one part, and Robert Wilberfoss on tbe other, be confirmed ; that tbe Directors be authorised to do and perform all acts and deeds necessary to carry out and complete such contract.” The sharebrokers announced that the applications for shares had already exceeded expectations. The investing public would therefore act wisely in making up their minds quickly if they desire to take an interest in what promises to be a highly prosperous concern. A meeting of creditors in the estate of Peter McGrath, bankrupt, was held at the Supreme Court Buildings yesterday week. Present, Messrs Cheymol, Guilford, Walceford, Scanlon,. Strike (2), Blower, Davies, and L. L. Harris. The Official Assignee stated that the debtor had been brought back to Wellington, and that there was no funds in hand. On being asked by Mr Blower what had been done with the money found on at the time of his arrest, the Official Assignee stated that only £1 had been found on him. Mr L. L Harris moved. “ That the expenses incurred by Mr Cheymol in bringing McGrath back,, should be refunded to him as a preferential charge on the estate.” Mr George Strike seconded the motion. After some discussion,, the meeting was adjourned until Wednesday next, the Official Assignee stating that he would summon McGrath and Mr Manthel, Mr Cheymol’s agent, to appear on that day.

A meeting was called last night week,by means of a circular addressed to the leading citizens, to consider the question of the formation in Wellington of a Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. There were about a dozen or fifteen gentlemen present, the. Hon. G. M. Waterhouse occupying the chair. Mr J. E. Baker, who had called the meeting, stated that he had received a telegram from the secretary of the Christchurch society, regretting his inability to attend as at first intended. Letters to the same effect had been received from the Premier, the Rev. Mr Hinton, and Mr Nathan. Mr Baker went on to show that there was a great field for a society for the prevention of cruelty to animals in Wellington, and that it would be able to prevent many acts of cruelty, both intentional and unintentional. It was objectionable to ladies and children to appear in courts of justice, but when a number of people were gathered together for a purpose, much of that objection would disappear. He went on to give an account of the work done by Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in various parts of tbe world, at Home and in the colonies, and described their mode of working. He pointed out that in New Zealand all the fines paid by offenders went to the Government, while in England one-half went to the society, and thought that should be altered. Mr Baker suggested that prizes should be offered for the best design for a card of membership, and for a motto. In tbe discussion which followed, Mr J. C. Harris hoped that they had full power under the Act. He did not, however, think they had any legal status. The Chairman stated that a Bill wa3 before Parliament to facilitate the incorporation of societies formed for benevolent purposes, and further, promised to introduce to the House a copy of the English Act bearing on the subject. Mr Harris then proposed that it was desirable that a Society for Prevention and Cruelty to Animals be formed. The motion was seconded by Mr Baker, and agreed to unanimously. Mr J. E. Baker then moved that the Mayor be requested to call a public meeting for this purpose, and that His Excellency the Governor be invited to attend. This motion was duly seconded and carried. It was then moved that the gentlemen present at the meeting, as well as those who had written to exeute themselves, should form a committee, four to be a quorum. This was agreed to, and Mr J, E. Baker wa3 appointed honorary secretary. The meeting then went into committee to consider the business to be brought before the public meeting to be called for establishing the society.

It may not be generally known that the Waiuuiomata supplies other places as well a 3 Wellington with water. It is laid on to the houses of several settlers at Wainui and at the Waiwetn, besides being used by the Gear Meat Freezing and Preserving Co. at their works at Petoue, and by the Marine Retreat Hotel at the same place.

In the House Wednesday afternoon, iu reply to a question by Mr Wakefield, the Colonial Treasurer said that arrangements had been made with the Bank of New Zealand to advance a sum of £500,000 on interest at the rate of 5 per cent., the security taking the form of debentures. Mr Wakefield having asked upon what authority the ijrovemmeut raised this sum, Sir Julius Vogel replied that power to do so was conferred on them by general Acts of the House.

The annual general meeting of the Thorndon Amateur Swimming Club was held at the Post Office Hotel Wednesday evening, the captain, R. H. Govett, in the chair. The following officers were elected for the ensuing season : President, W. H. Levin ; vice-president, J. P. Maxwell ; captain, R. H. Govett ; hon. secretary and treasurer, J. P. Brandon. Committee : Messrs Tarleton, Broad, Luckie, Wragge, and Burnes. A number of new members were elected.

The air of calm serenity which at all times pervades the atmosphere of the Legislative Council not infrequently causes a soporific influence to affect hon. members. On Wednesday one hon. gentleman spent a very pleasant afternoon on the soft cushions of his settee, and judging from the sounds which issued from his nasal organ he must have enjoyed pleasant dreams. After slumbering for about an hour and a half, during which a division was taken, a messenger,, by the direction of the Speaker, cruelly awoke the hon. gentleman to the stern realities of life.

The trophies presented to the Phoenix Cricket Club for last season have be sn won as follows : —The bat given by Mr Duncan for the belt average in batting in first eleveD, Mr Miles, with an average of 17 1-7 ; the bat given by Mr Alpe for best average bowling in first eleven, Mr Godden, with an average of 6 1-3 runs per wicket ; aud the cup given by Mr Farmer for best average bowling in both, elevens, Mr Kilner, with, the good average of 4 1-3 runs per wicket. The bowling all round is good, Messrs Lawson and Holmes being second and third for first eleven, with averages of 6 19-22 and 9 respectively, while for the second eleven Messrs Doyle and Varnham are close up with 4 13-19 aud 4 19-22.

The harmless, necessary compositor is too frequently credited with- the sins of omission and commission of careless caiigraphists, and it will therefore doubtless prove a source of some slight amount of comfort to him that so high an official as Sir William Fitzherbert, the Speaker of the Legislative Council, has entered a mild protest on his behalf. On Wednesday, on the occasion of a certain honorable and gallant member in the Council rising to bring forward a motion standing in his name, he complained that a typographical error had been made in the motion by a printer in the Government Printing Office. Leave was given to amend the motion, but the Speaker remarked that he thought that errors were too often ascribed to- tbe printer which should really be borne by the writer of the “ copy.”

A party of young fellows named Meek, Bendor, Fulton, Hill, Kelly, and Lees, had a narrow escape from drowning in the harbor on Sunday morning. They started on Saturday night in a yacht for Day’s Bay, but becoming becalmed at Halwell Point decided to return borne, Arriving at the yacht’s moorings between five aud six on Sunday morniug, they made the vessel fast and proceeded to go ashore in the dingy, which, being too small for the party, capsized. No one happened to be about the Queen’s Wharf at that early hour to render assistance, aud as Bendor and Hill were unable to swim, it was feartcl they would. drown. The four others, however, managed, with much difficulty during ten minutes immersion, to get Bendor and Hill on board the yacht again in an exhausted condition, where the usual restoratives were applied with success. Messrs Fulton, Kelly, Meek, and Lees deserre the highest commendation for the gallant manlier inwhich they rescued their comrades.

As there is a growing inclination to look to the College boys to take the lead in every thing appertaining to athletics, we are glad to hear a few gentlemen are interesting themselves to provide inducement for the boys to bestir themselves in the matter. Thig. year trophies are to be introduced for competition. Mr Tancred, of the Wairarapa, has very generously promised a handsome silver and gold cup, a prize he won himself in the old Cambridge day 3, as a trophy for boxing, to be competed for every year until wos three times consecutively by any one competitor, when it becomes his property. Mr Tancred promised the cup conditionally upon a couple of trophies for tbe best general gymnastics being provided by the Wellington people—one trophy for boys over thirteen years, and tbe other for boys under thirteen, both to be competed for yearly nntil won three times consecutively by the same competitor. More than half enough to purchase these trophies haa been promised by various gentlemen, and we therefore fee*, justified in reporting progress, feeling. that the whole amount required will be readily subscribed.

The matter of the lata conviction against the Hon. O. J. Pharazyn again cropped up so the Legislative Council Wednesday,in the form of a motion tabled by the Hon, Colonel Brett, who considered that it was desirable that, the Government should state what steps -hey intended taking against the hon. memoer. Hon. members, however, did not apparently take kindly to the motion, and with a view to putting a stop to the debate, the Hon. j.lr Mantell moved the previous question, which.as a matter of course the LOiOmal Secretary from making any reply. Immediately, however, C-donel Brett’s motion haa been shelved, Mr Buckley rose,, and after explaining that Mr Mantell’s motion had debarred him from speaking on the- subject, said that the question of the conduct of any hon, member was entirely within the control of the Council, aud for that reason it was not the intoatiou of the Government to interfere in any way. But whilst ho said so much, the Colonial Secretary wished it to be distinctly understood that the Government had not and would not shirk any responsibility whenever it presented itself*

In the House last Friday, three weeks’ leave of absence was granted to Mr Fisher, the member for Wellington South, on the motion of Dr Newman.

From Woodville news is to hand that a settler named Makensen was drowned on Thursday last week while attempting to cross the Manawatu river on foot at the ford leading to Puketoi, where he .possessed land. The body is not yet recovered.

Our Grey town correspondent writes : A young lady (Miss Quick) from Wellington has been surprising some of the people in the Wairarapa with her gift as a medical clairvoyant. Her mode of diagnosing cases is similar to that of Signor Otto Hug. During her visit up this way, she had several opportunities for display* ing her talents in this direction. Sergeant-Major Goodall on Sep. 18 conducted the criminal business in the Resident Magistrate’s Court for the first time. He formerly held the position of inspector in the police, but on the reduction of the force, was, through the exigencies of the service, deprived of his rank. He comes here with excellent credentials both from his officers and the public generally. The chief officer of the ill-fated ship Lastingham (Mr Neale) has received the appointment of chief officer of the Government steamer Hinemoa. The second mate (Mr Barton), through the kind offices of the agents of the s.s. Florida, obtained a free passage to England, while three or four of the shipwrecked crew were shipped as A.B.’s on the same vessel. The remainder of the survivors of the crew have elected to try their fortunes iu the colony.

The annnal general meeting of the Wellington Cricket Club was held at the Pier Hotel last Friday night, Mr Knapp in the chair. The report and balance-sheet were read and Jlptpted. It was resolved that W. H. Levin, Lsq., be requested to allow himself to be reelected as president of the club, and also Hon. J. R. Johnston and H. D. Bell, Esq., as vicepresidents. The following officers were then elected : —Secretary, Mr A. Hadfield ; treasurer, Mr Page:; committee, Messrs Bate, Lynch, Tarleton, Ronaldson, and Firth ; delegates to the association, Messrs Bate, Firth, and Tarleton. The meeting terminated with the usual vote of thanks to the chairman. ]VIr H. Grant Lloyd, a member of the Otago Art Society, and an artist of . considerable ability, is at present on a short visit to Wellington, and has brought with him some excellent samples of his work. His portfolio is enriched by many gems of colonial scenery, embracing mountain, lake, harbor, and homestead views:; while at the rooms of Messrs J. H. Betbune and Co. are to be seen a couple of paintings representing Mount Cook and the vale of Tasman, as also “ Dawn of the Hooker Glacier.” Lovers of art would do well by inspecting these works to judge for "themselves of Mr Lloyd’s merit. It may be added that Mr Lloyd is not altogether unknown in Wellington, he having sojourned here for a while some two years ago.

The monthly inspection of the garrison was -held at the Drillshed last Friday evening by Colonel Pearce, assisted by Major Butts and Sergeant-Major Bell. There was a fair attendance, the various corps being represented as follows Navals (Lieutenants Wallace and Hialop), 45 ; D Battery New . Zealand Artillery (Captain Macready and Lieutenant Lyon), 47 ; City Rifles (Captain Krull), 36 ; •Guards (Captain Loveday and Lieutenant Aitken), 45 ; Wellington Rifles (Captain Shannon and Lieutenant Steele), 33 ; band (under Bandmaster Mclntosh), 19. After the inspection the garrison marched out through Willis, 'Ghuznee, and Cuba-streets and back, headed by the band, and on their return were put the manual and firing exercises by Sergeant-Major Bell, and dismissed. _ Yesterday week Mr H. S. Wardell, R.M., paid a graceful and well-merited compliment to Sergeant Anderson during the proceedings at the i Resident Qeurt. The Resident Magistrate remarked that he regretted to learn that Sergeant Anderson was about to leave for Hawera. No terms were too high in which to express his appreciation of the services of “the sergeant. So far as be (Mr Wardell) could recollect, he had never been brought into contact with an officer who had discharged his duties more efficiently and with greater •courtesy and satisfaction to the general public, iand he could only regret that the authorities had decided to remove him to anether district, Mr E. Shaw, speaking on behalf of himself and his brethren of the Bar, endorsed all that had been said by Mr Wardell, and remarked ithat he felt assured that when it came to the turn of Sergeant-Major Goodall to leave the -district, that it would be the pleasing task of the Resident Magistrate to speak in the same -manner of that officer as Mr TVardell had of Sergeant Anderson Sergeant Anderson briefly replied, thanking his Worship for the good opinion he had been pleased to express of his conduct whilst in charge of the station as a sub-officer. Festivities attending the honeymoon trip of poung man named Walter Trickor had the iLi'ect on Tuesday night last week of bringing him within the clutches of the law. Trickor, accompanied by his bride, attracted, no doubt, by the announcement that a continuance of “ Happy Hours ” could be obtained by visiting Mr and Mrs Hart’s entertainment, went to the theatre, where they evidently enjoyed themselves. Nemesis, however, in the person of a young woman, was on the track of Trickor, who recognised him a.s the husband ■of her sister, who resides in Auckland, and who, unfortunately for her, espoused the faithless Trickor some two or three years ago. The sister-in-law, unluckily for Trickor, had recently received a communication from Mrs Trickor No. 1 to the effect that her husband deserted her and her infant child in Auckland in Juue last, and bad proceeded to Gisborne, where he had espoused a second wife in the person of a Miss Emily Harris. The sister of the veritable wife, on seeing her brother-in-law, hurried from the theatre and made the police acquainted with the state of affaira, and on the following morning the man was arrested •on an information charging him with the 'p desertion of Mrs Trickor and child. The accused wa3 remanded, and meantime the police communicated with the authorities at Gisborne, and received a reply by telegram that Trickor had certainly committed bigamy recently at that place, and intimating that a warrant for his apprehension would be forwarded by the first opportunity. The accused appeared on remand at the Resident Magistrate’s Court last Friday, and was further remanded tiil the next Tuesday, to await the warrant.

We are informed that Mr G. S. Graham, the «eneral manager of the Colonial Insurance Company, has intimated to the directors his intention to resign at the end of the company s financial year, the 31st March, 1885.

Mr H. S. Wardell, R.M., ba3 been appointed Deputy District Judge for the Wairarapa, for the purpose of enabling. Mr Wardell to deal with the bankruptcy business in that locality.

A Press Association telegram from Blenheim states that Joseph Kirkwood, a single man, aged 28, was killed on the Dashwood Pass contract on Friday by a fall of earth. Deceased and a mate named Graham arrived there from the North Island a month ago, and took a sub-contract for excavating. He was inexperienced in such work. An inquest will be held.

A rifle contest (200, 300, and 500 yards) took place on Saturday last at Grey town between a local team and one from Masterton, resulting in a victory for the latter by 60 points. Sergeant Trotman headed the score for Greytown with 46 points, and Volunteer Blane made 47 for the visitors, the totals being, Masterton 393, Greytown 333. A return match ,-will probably take place on Saturday week at Masterton.

An exhibition of hides, plain, stained, grained, and waxed, and of various kinds of boots, shoes, &c., was opened to the public last night week at the premises of the New Zealand Leather Company on Lambton-quay. The leather, among which are some fine hides and sheepskins prepared for various purposes, is from the tannery of IMr A. Tyer, at Ngahauranga ; and the boots, shoes, &c., which comprise everything from heavy hobnailed bluchers to ladies’ satin ball shoes, are exhibited by the New Zealand Leather Companv. The exhibition, which was kept open for several days, and was visited by many people, deeply impressing them with the importance of these local industries, Courteous and obliging attendants were present to explain in detail the nature of the articles exhibited. The two firms, when amalgamated under the name of the Wellington Leather Manufacturing Company of New Zealand, will be able to turn out, from local raw material, articles second to none manufactured in the colony.

Oar cable messages state that General Gordon has twice defeated the rebels in the vicinity of Khartoum, and has compelled them to raise the siege of that important stronghold. When a juncture is effected with the relief party now proceeding up the Nile, we may expect to hear news of a less monotonous character than that which has been reaching ns for some time past. Egyptian finances have been so long a source of trouble that the item from Cairo will, while of a very unsatisfactory character to those interested, evoke little general concern. The accounts of modern battles are so often found to be unreliable that the public will be quite prepared to learn that the recent encounter between French and Chinese troops at Kin-poi, which resulted in favor of the former, was greatly exaggerated. So much depends in these matters on the source of information.

On Saturday evening last Conrtenay-place was the scene of a remarkably lively act, or, rather, series of acts, and although no overt breach of the peace was committed, there can be little doubt that, but for the presence of a party of the police under Sergeant Ready, some unpleasantness might easily have occurred. The affair was the result of an objection on the part of Mr Donelly, draper in Courtenay-place, to close his establishment on Saturdays at 9 p.m. This objection has led the assistants of the drapers who have agreed to the early closing of their shops on Saturday night to endeavour to coerce Mr Donelly into acting in accord with the rest of the trade. On Saturday the assistants engaged in the other establishmente determined to make a demonstration, and shortly after 9 o’clock, a large number of persons, headed by a brass band, left Cuba-street and proceeded down Courtenay-place until they reached Donnelly’s, and en route the procession received many accessions to its numbers, tiil the cavalcade, when it halted opposite M!r Donnelly a shop, must have numbered nearly 500 persons. The band played some exceedingly lively airs at first, but wound up with the “ Dead March in Saul.” The unwonted stir Had the effect of attracting a large number of youths, who, by cat-calls and adjectives addressed to Mr Donnelly, desired him to close his establishment. Sergeant Ready spoke to those who appeared to be at the head of the affair, and requested them to 41 move on.” His mandate wa3 at once obeyed, and the bandsmen and the crowd marched backwards and forwards before the offending establishment. Eventually the police succeeded in obtaining the names of several persons in the crowd, and it is not unlikely that proceedings will be taken against them in the Police Court.

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The following Road Board elections are gazetted :—Masterton Road District : Robert David Dagg, Gunder Gundersen, William Henry Beetham, and Edwin Meredith, jun. Castle Point Road District ; Holmes Warren. Soon after noon on Monday a report was current, and of course caused some little excitement, that a woman had been seen in the vicinity of the Parliamentary Buildings, and entering the Provincial Hotel, with no other clothing than a chemise. On investigation by the police it was, however, found out that the female in question was decently dressed in a flowing print gown, which had the appearance of being white, as the original design was nearly washed out. In the House yesterday week, Mr Seddon asked the Government whether they proposed to find employment for tlie gold discoverer, William Fox. He explained that Fox had discovered gold in a large number of places in the colony, and all he asked for was light employment till such time as he was so far recovered in bodily health as to be able to look out for himself. The Hon. Mr Ballance said a petition was before the House on the matter, and he did not think it advisable, therefore, to deal with the subject now. At the adjourned meeting of the Porirua Licensing Committee, held on September 17, there were present—Messrs T. Smith (in the chair), F. E. Darby, A. Tyer, and J. Jillett. Transfers were granted from Thomas Urwin, Pahautanui Hotel, to Alfred Brady, and from William McKenzie, Empire Hotel, Pahautanui, to James Lundon. The committee directed Mr W. P. James, the clerk, to inform the licensees of the White Horse Hotel, Ngahauranga, and Mr Blackey, of the Horokiwi Hotel, Horokiwi Valley, that unless their fire escapes were placed in a satisfactory condition, their licenses would be jeopardised. A general meeting of the shareholders of the Anatori Goldmining Company was called at the office of Mr Davis, the secretary, Monday evening. Mr R. Bruce Wallace was voted to the chair, there being eight or ten shareholders present. The business of the meeting was to remove Mr H. H. Travers from the board of the directors of the company. After some discussion, during which it was alleged against Mr Travers that he had made efforts to have the lease of the company’s estate at Collingwood cancelled, it transpired that the meeting was informal, through the oversight of the secretary in not sending a circular to each shareholder, besides advertising it. . The meeting was accordingly adjourned sine die. In the House last Friday afternooD, before proceeding with the Orders of the Day, Sir Julius Vogel said there were two matters he should like to briDg before hon. members. The first was, that the names of members in charge of Bills should be attached to the measure on the Order Paper. The Speaker expressed his willingness to accede to thiß proposition, which he considered would be a beneficial one. The second matter, Sir Julius said, was that if it would be agreeable to hon. members to organise a trip by steamboat, the Hinemoa would be available on the following morning. He suggested that not less than twenty gentlemen should go, and urged the necessity of returning by Tuesday. The Slaughterhouses Bill introduced by Mr Tole, though not dealing with a very savory subject, is an exceedingly necessary piece of legislation. The Road Boards and . Town Boards, in districts where the Counties Act has not been brought into operation, have hitherto been powerless to deal. with the nuisances arising from the establishment of abbatoirs, and in consequence residents near these objectionable, albeit necessary, places have sought in vain for redress of grievances from the local bodies. The Bill referred to gives to these bodies all the powers conferred upon County Councils in the matter of slaughterhouses, together with all fee 3 and penalties accruing in connection therewith within their jurisdictions. The fleet of yachts owned In Wellington harbor was added to on Monday by the arrival from Auckland of a new craft built by Mr Bailey, of Auckland, to the order of Mr Butler, of the Native Department. The Maia (such is her name) was launched from the Te Anau and moored at the Star Boating Club sheds on Monday afternoon. She is 20ft long, 6ffc Bin in beam, 3ft deep, half decked and cutter rigged, and carries a centreboard. She is built entirely of cedar, French polished, and is very neatly finished, no expense having been spared in her construction. She has a ram bow, which gives her a somewhat similar appearance to the Pet, although she is of course much smaller than that yacht. Her masts, sails, and rigging came down from Auckland all complete, and she is ready to go out at any time. The name Maia, which is neatly painted on a blue ensign on each bow, is the Maori equivalent for bold, and from her appearance we should judge that she will be able to prove herself deserving of that appellation. The labors of the delegates from the various Chambers of Commerce in the colony were concluded Monday, and it now only remains for the Conference to consider their report, which will probably be ready within a day or two. At Monday’s sitting the following resolutions relating to the management of the State railways, proposed by Mr Cbrystall, were agreed to 1. ‘‘That with a view to more efficient and and economic management of the New Zealand Railways, it is desirable that there should be constituted in each railway district a Board of Advice, whose existence should be officially recognised by the Government.” 2. “ That the functions of the said Board of Advice should be to consider complaints or suggestions from persons using the railways, to bold conferences with local or other officers of the Department, and to communicate the result of its deliberations to the Government, or otherwise to make recommendations to Government on matters affecting the efficient or equitable management of the railways within its particular district. ’ 3. “That the members of the said Board of Advice should be elected by the local Chambers of Commerce, Agricultural and Pastoral Associations, or County Councils, or in part by the Governor m Council, The following motions were also. agreed to “ That this conference is of opinion that the Government should take steps to keep down the rabbits on the waste lands of the Crown, and also on native lands.” “ That it would be an economic mistake and detrimental to best interests of the agricultural, pastoral, and mining interests, as well as the interests of the public generally, to legislate at present in the direction of increasing existing and imposing new Custom duties for protection purjt93es,”

At a public meeting held at Eketahuna on Saturday last, it was decided to memorali.se the Government to continue the present railway line via Eketahuna and Forty-mile Bush to Wocdville.

The sun entered Libra on Tuesday, and the vernal season may be said to have begun. As is to be expected at this period of the year, the weather has been rather unsettled of late, although the equinoctial gales have not yet made their appearance. The Anglo-New Zealander, to hand by Tuesday’s mail, says Sir John Hall would leave Liverpool about the middle of August for New Zealand. Sir John visits Canada and the United States, and will then proceed to San Francisco, where he will embark on September 27 by the mail steamer for New Zealand. Lady Hall and family will remain in England until the return of Sir John.

The following resolution was passed at a meeting of the Opaki Flood Committee, held at Masterton on Saturday :—That Messrs John Cameron and J. Herbert form a deputation to wait on the Minister of Public Works to ascertain what Bteps the Government are prepared to take to avert the danger threatening the railway works by the overflow of the Waipoua River at Paiarau.” Mrs Hart took a benefit at the Theatre Royal on Saturday evening last, and the attendance was sufficiently numerous to warrant the supposition that the fair beneficiaire would realise a gratifying net result. The performance consisted of a merrv little comedy, entitled “ Diamond cut Diamond,” and the laughable sketch of “ My wife’s relations,” in both of which the talents of Mr and Mrs Hart and their daughter found ample scope. The numerous changes were quickly effected, whilst the songs, duets, aad dances were vociferonsly applauded, and in some instances were redemanded.

Mr E. P. Wilson, of the late firm of Smith and Wilson, of Wellington, whose business, with that of others, was recently amalgamated with the United Importers’. Company (Limited), goes to Great Britain in the s.s. Aorangi, on Saturday next, as manager of the company’s business in London. Mr Wilson is also empowered by the Wellington Woollen to wait upon Home manufacturers and accept tenders for machinery required by the company ; also to act as buyer and seller in the Home markets. The Athenseum Hall was crowded Tuesday evening on the occasion of the concert given by the combined choirs of the Primitive Methodist and other churches and the Young Men’s Christian Association. A. number of people were unable to obtain admission. The sacred cantata, “ Esther, the Beautiful Queen,” was given, and the characters were taken as follows :—Esther, Miss Randell ; Zeresh, Miss Sutcliffe ; Mordecai, Mr E. J. Hill ; Hainan, Mr J. Todd ; and King Ahasuerus, Mr Prouse. Messrs Harland and Crichton officiated as organists. A lady, whose name did not transpire, acted as pianist, and the Rev. P. Needham Hunter conducted. The concert was a great success, and the audience showed their appreciation by frequent and vigorous applause. Mi W. W. McCardle has been interviewing Ministers in reference to the railway line through the Forty Mile Bush. As the result of his communications with the Hon. Mr Richardson, says the Walrarapa Star, he is doubtful, unless considerable pressure can be brought to bear, if the present line will be constructed beyond Eketahuna. The Wellington and Hawke’s Bay members, with the exception of Messrs Beetham and BuchanaD, are resolved to insist on the construction of the Manawatu line across tbs Gorge to Woodville, and if that is done there is every probability of the bush being tapped from the Woodville side as far as Pahiatua. From this it would seem that the interests of Masterton and other towns of the Wairarapa are concerned in preventing the trade of the Forty-Mile Bush being drained into remote and to us foreign channels. The following additional resolutions were carried by the delegates of the Colonial Chambers of Commerce: —“That this. conference desires to bring under the notice of the Government the desirableness of introducing a decimal system of weights and measures.” “That, with a view to a general system of decimals, Goyernment be asked to pave the way by using the cental or lOOlbs as the standard in Government contracts, railway carriage, and Customhouse returns. “ That Government be asked to obtain the co-operation of the other colonies in the carrying out of the foregoing.” “ That this conference is of opinion that it is desirable to encourage the direct steam service between New Zealand and England, by arranging, on liberal terms, for a mail service to alternate fortnightly between the San Francisco service, provided always that the cost to the colony under present arrangements shall not be increased.”

On a rather wet ground, and in good football weather, the Poneke Football Club’s team succeeded in administering a beating to the Unions in the contest for the Asher cup ©n Saturday afternoon. Both teams were slightly weakened by the absence of “cracks,’ and the match may be said to have been fought on its merits. The Unions opened exceedingly well, taking the play down to their opponents, 25 yards almost immediately after the kick off. Here Jacka would probably have potted a goal had be not dropped the leather. Throughout the spell the Blues (Unions) managed to keep the play pretty equal, and it began to look like a draw. The good play of the Union forwards in the first spell, however, was equalled by the shocking manner in which they collapsed in the second; for, with one or two notable exceptions, they seemed to be completely boiled. The Ponekes, on the other hand, showed magnificent form, and menaced their opponents’ territory for nearly the whole of the spell. The Reds succeeded in scoring two tries, one obtained by Sim off a good pass by Bright, and the second by Nicholls by a good dashiDg run. Both kicks were entrusted to Rigg, who was unable to get the ball between the posts. Just before time was called, the Union forwards, by a dashing onslaught, took the ball down to the other end of the field, but were unable to get in. The game thus ended in favor of the Ponekes by two tries to love. _ Skinny MFn, —“Well’s Health Renewer, restores health and vigor, cures Dyspepsia, Impotence, Debility. Zealand Company, General Agents. 1

The Minister of Justice Monday forwarded a communication to the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, informing that body that the Official Assignee’s office would be placed in connection with the Telephone Exchange immediately.

On Monday a deputation from the Chamber of Commerce Conference waited upon the Attorney-General, and suggested certain alterations which the Conference was of opinion might be made in the Bankruptcy Act, and also in the administration of the Act. Mr Stout agreed with the suggestions geuerally, but with regard to one offered he said that he should require time to consider it. The matter referred to cases wherein an estate of a bankrupt was not sufficient to pay wages and salaries due to the bankrupt’s employes. The deputation pointed out that the Conference was of opinion that the penalty of debarring a debtor in such a case from ever obtaining a certificate was too stringent, and suggested that withholding the certificate for a peiiod of two years would meet the case.

Dr. Gore Gillon Monday evening delivered a lecture in the large upstairs room of the Athenaeum, under the auspices of the Young Men’s Christian Association, the chair being taken by Mr Millar Smith. The lecturer alluded to the means which should be adopted in cases of accident until the arrival of a surgeon, and went on to refer to the circulation of the blood and the best manner of treating bleeding wound 3 and injured limbs. Gunshot wounds on a battle field were fully described, and also the best manner in the absence of a surgeon of treating them with the aid of a sword, a handkerchief, and a stone. Dr. Marshall Hall's and Dr. Sylvester’s methods of restoring the apparently drowned were fully explained. Injuries to the chest, abdomen, brain, and spine were described, and also the best manner of alleviating pain in the event of surgical aid not being procurable. The lecture, which was listened to with the utmost attention, was illustrated by living subjects. A most cordial and hearty vote of thanks was passed to Dr. Gillon at the conclusion of the lecture, which lasted one hour and twenty minutes. The room was crammed to suffocation, and fully a hundred persons were unable to obtain admission.

An ingenious contrivance for the purpose of making use of the superabundant force of the Wellington wind is in course of construction at a workshop in Courtenay-place.. Mr C. Bath, wood-turner, intended some time back to erect a water-engine to drive a fret-saw in his workshop, but not being willing to pay the excessive cost of connecting the somewhat distant water mains with his premises, he decided to erect a wind motor. This machine consists of a wooden framework 23ft high, surmounted by a number of laths radiating horizontally from an axle, and forming a circle about 10ft in diameter. At the end of these laths hollow cones of zinc are fastened to catch the wind. These cones are twelve in number, and present to the wind an equal number of months, 15in each iu diameter, which are kept in motion by the wind, and they do not require to be adjusted to suit its direction. The motion thus obtained is communicated by means of cogwheels and a belt to the flywheel, which is connected with the lathe inside. the. workshop by a belt. At present the machine is still in an experimental stage, but, with a few slight modifications, Mir Bath, who has designed and constructed it himself, expects it to develop about two-horse power. When the motor is complete, the owner and builder may with truth say, “ It is an ill wind that blows nobody good.” The opening lecture of what are termed the “ Museum Series ” was delivered by Mr J. J. Freeth, at Masterton, on Friday evening last. In the course of his remarks, Mr Freeth referred to the Creation from a Maori point of view, and described graphically how the Heavens originally lay prone on the earth till some vigorous natives lifted them up and propped them with stars. He next briefly adverted (says the Daily) to the native creation of the sun and moon, the origin of man and woman, the tradition of the flood, and the beautiful legend which ascribes the mist on the hills to tears shed by. “Rangi,” the Heavens, to prove that he is not unmindful of his old companion, the earth, from which he was separated. The next myth touched upon was the fishing up of the North Island of New Zealand by a. God with an unpronounceable name.. The lecturer then ably sketched the migration of the Maori race from the Sandwieh Islands, the introduction of the native rats, and. the Maori idea of a place of departed spirits. Some amusement wa3 created by his description of the Got? of earthquakes, whose snore was a tremor, whose grunt was a small, shake, and who, when he turned over on his side, caused the heavy earthquakes. The lecture concluded with the recital of a local legend of an old man whose young wife was stolen away and who pursued her through the Forty Mile Bush to Wanganui, returning thence by the West Coast, Porirua, and Hutt Valley to the Wairarapa. _____ Hop Bitters are the Beat and Purest Bitters Ever Made. They are Compounded from Hop 3, Malt, Buctm, Mandrake, and Dandelion- —the eldest* best, and most valuable medicines in the world, and contain all the best and most curative properties of all other remedies, being the greatest Blood Purifier, Liver Regulator, ana Life and Health Restoring Agent on earth. No disease or ill health can possibly long exist where these Bitters are used, so varied ana perfect are their operations. They give new life and vigor to the aged.and infirm. To all whose employments cause irregularity of the bowels or urinary organs, or who require an Appetizer, Tome, and mild Stimulant, Hop Bitters are invaluable, being highly curative, tonic, and stimulating, without intoxicating. No matter what your feeliDgs or symptomsare what the disease or ailment i 8 > use Hop Bitters Don’t wait until you are sick, but.it vou oniy feel bad or miserable, use Hop Bitters at once. It may save your life. Hundreds have been saved by so doing. £SOO will be paid for a case they will not cure or help. Do not suffer or let your friends suffer, but use and urge them to use Hop Bitters. Remember, Hop Bitters is no vile, drugged drunken nostrum, but the Purest and Best Medicine ever made; the “Invalid’s Friend and Hope,” and no person or family should be without them. Try the Bitters to-day. Get at chemists or druggists. L C I

As will be seen by our report of the proceedings in the Legislative Council elsewhere, the Hon. C. J. Pharazyn intends to appeal against his last conviction for a breach of the ■Corrupt Practices Prevention Act.

Some samples of coal from a measure belonging to the Westport Coal Company are now being used at the Parliamentary Buildings. The company may be congratulated on their new seam, which is called the Coalbrookdale, for the coal appears to be of excellent quality.

Mr Wilson on Tuesday gave notice of his intention to move that members’ railway passes Bhall only be available from the week before to one week after the session. In connection with railway management, Mr G-. F. Richardson vjill ask the Government to-day, If they will consider the advisability of abolishing the present system of railway tickets and of cash payments for the same, substituting therefor and for the payment of goods freights by rail, a system of payment by stamps ?

A ponderous locomotive boiler, part of the first of two engines imported from England by the Wellinpton-Manawatu Railway Company, was taken out of the s.s. Aorangi yesterday week and placed on a truck. It attracted considerable attention on its journey through the city to the reclaimed land belonging to the Railway Company. Some difficulty was experienced in steering the huge mass of iron, which was drawn by four heavy draught horses through the streets, on account of its weight.

Mr Macandrew, on Tuesday, gave notice of a lengthy series of motions to the effect that, whereas there are millions of acres of Crown land in this colony capable of supporting a numerous industrial population, this House is of opinion that there need be no unemployed in New Zealand ; and, that .the Government should takfl steps whereby those who are able and willing to work, but who may be unable to procure employment otherwise, may obtain free-grant allotments of land upon similar terms and conditions to those prescribed under the Auckland Homestead Regulations ; such allotments not to exceed ten acres for each male adult. Also that, whereas there is a large area of Crown lands (about 100,000 acres), at present entirely unoccupied, between Catlin’s River and Waihara, peculiarly adapted for settlement by a population such as the Highland crofters, whose avocations have always combined, to a large extent, sea fishery and cultivation of the soil. Resolved (1), That a special settlement of say 10,000 acres be laid off. into ten-acre sections, one-third of which shall be available »3 free grants of one section to each family settling thereon, on terms and conditions similar to those embodied in the Auckland Homestead regulations, the remaining two-thirds to be open for application by the said settlers only, at a fixed price of say 20s an acre cash. (2) That the Government be requested to take such action as may be deemed most expedient towards inducing as large a number as may be of the said crofters to occupy the said special settlement.

The annual meeting of the Wellington Cricket Association was held Tuesday evening at the Pier Hotel, the chair being occupied by Mr D. Cameron. The Hon. Secretary read the annual report, which was satisfactory, so far as cricket was concerned, but it was a matter for regret that the expenditure was in excess of the receipts. The Wellington Amateur Dramatic Club bad offered to give two performances in aid of the association funds. The report set forth that, during the past year, £lsl had been expended in wages on the Basin Reserve, and expressed regret that it had been found inadvisable to put the ground in order for next season owing to the uncertainty of tenure. It was purposed, however, to appoint a deputation to wait upon the City Council with regard to the subject during the week. The Treasurer’s report showed that £45 14s 9d, outstanding accounts from last year, had been paid, and the expenditure on the Basin Reserve from 1875 to 1884 amounted to £1753 12s Bd. The receipts of the association for the year 1883-4 were £37S 17s, whilst the expenditure was £375. The assets were £46 13s lid, and liabilities £75. In answer to a question, the Chairman said the footballers bad not paid anything towards the maintenance of the Basin Reserve, neither had any promise been made. On the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr Bate, the report and balance-sheet were adopted. The Treasurer stated that about £l6 was still owing by different clubs. The election of officers resulted as follows:—Patron, Mr E. Pearce ; president, Air W. H. Levin ; vice-presidents, Air G. Fisher and Mr C. Benbow ; treasurer, Mr S. Alpe ; secretary, (Mr A. T. Bate. The election of committeemen was postponed till the next meeting. Messrs Cornish and Mclntyre were re-elected auditors. Mr Cox moved, and Mr Bate seconded, a vote of thanks to Air Morris Fox, the late secretary,{for the assiduity and attention he had displayed during bis term of office. Carried unanimously. The following were appointed gronnd committee :—Messrs J. P. Firth, Farmer, and Roberts. Messrs Firtb, Holle, and Miles were elected a 3 the selection of teams committee. Councillor S. Brown, one of the old trustees of the Basin Reserve, said that when the unfortunate occurrence took place with regard to the Superintendent he had felt somewhat strongly on the subject, and he had taken some trouble in the matter. All he could say now was that the trust would be re-conveyed to the City Council, and when this was done matters would be as they were before, the trouble occurred. He believed he was right.in saying that the council would do its best in the interest of cricket. He had always thought that the Basin Reserve should be devoted to cricket, while the Newtown Park should .be set apart for the footballers. On the motion of Air Bate, a deputation was appointed to wait on the City Council with regard to the trust of the Basin Reserve, consisting of Messrs Fox, Farmer, Knapp, Duncan, Benbow, and Bate. A vote of thanks was accorded to Councillor S. Brown and his co-trustees, Councillors A. W. Brown and T. McKenzie, for the interest displayed in regard to the Basin Reserve. Messrs Bate, Alpe, Roberts, Firth, Cameron, Knapp, and Cox were elected a committee to revise the rules of the association, and report thereon to a general meeting' to be called. A vote of thanks was also accorded to Air Alpe, the treasurer, for his past services, and to Air Firth, as selector of the teams last season. The usual compliments to "the chair terminated the proceedings.

In a summons for property tax, amounting to 6s 3d, this morning (says Monday’s Wairarapa Daily), the expenses ran up to £2 15s. There was no appearance of either party.

It is understood that Air W. T. L. Travers intends bringing an action for damages, on the score of libel, against Mr L. Davies, manager of the Anafcori Gold Mining Company,, damages being laid at £SOO. The alleged libel 13 contained in an advertisement, in which a meeting is convened for the purpose of removing Air Travers from the directorate of the company referred to. No doubt Mr H. H. Travers was the gentleman alluded to, but Air Travers, senr., feels naturally aggrieved, and contends that the advertisement is a libel upon him.

A deputation representing the temperance interest in Wellington, and composed of the Revs W. C. Oliver and J. H. HintOD, and Messrs AI. J. Watt, Edwards. Swain, Price, and F. H. Fraser waited on the Premier Tuesday afternoon. Mr Hobbs, AI.H.R., introduced the deputation, which stated that its object was to deprecate any alteration or amendment in the existing licensing laws such as was contemplated by Air Steward’s Bill now before the House. In reply, the Premier sympathised with the views expressed by the deputation, and stated that, in his opinion, the amending Bill, if passed through committee, would undergo considerable modification. The deputation then thanked Air Stout and withdrew.

In the House on Tuesday Mr Pearson asked the Government, If it is their intention to readjust the railway tariff, with a view to a substantial reduction on grain rates before the next season ? T n replying, the Alinister for Public Works said the Government recognised that the railway tariff required entire reclassification and readjustment. The Estimates, as referred to in the Financial Statement, were based upon the tariff as at present existing, and the Government would not be able to touch the matter this session. They would, however, go into it thoroughly during the recess, and hon, members would see that it would be some time before any change could be made.

Considerable anxiety is being felt owing to the non-arrival of the cutter Dove, which left D’Urville Islaad on the 26th of last month, laden with fish, and bound either for Wellington or Wanganui, it being the intention of her master and owner to make the first port he could. The crew consisted of the master (Captain Day or Daly), of Nelson, and two men. This was the first trip of the Dove, which is described as a smart and good seagoing little boat. Mr Cowling, who has a run on D’Urville Island, states that he was there when the cutter left on the 26th ultimo, since which time nothing appears to have been heard of her. The Dove’s crew left their clothing, nets, and gear on the island, it being their intention to pay another fishing visit to the place. Any intelligence either of the cutter or any of her crew would be thankfully received by Air F. Liardet, Lambtonquay.

Of the little things that go to swell the sum total of human ills, not the least are the petty annoyances the public are almost daily subjected to by building obstructions on the footpaths, the loading and unloading of drays, &c., which compel pedestrians to make a detour, often through mud or over coarse metal, to avoid being knocked down or otherwise injured. It is to be presumed that until inspectors of nuisances are endowed with the power of übiquity the public will continue to suffer. A timber merchant at the Te Aro end of the city has been loDg— perhaps unknowingly—an offender in the manner alluded to. At all times of the day drays are to be seen loading and discharging lengths of timber across the footway, notwithstanding that there is an adjacent yard into which the drays could back. For years this nuisance has been borne by a patient public, and apparently overlooked by the local inspector. Perhaps this reference to it may lead to a remedy.

The weekly meeting of the Benevolent Society was held at the Council Chambers, Tuesday afternoon, there being present Air George Allen, in tbe chair, Rev. Messrs Kerrigan, Van Staveren, and Redstone, Alessrs J. E. Smith, and B. Smith, and Air C. P. Powles, the treasurer. An old man, seventy-five years of age, who had been at the hospital, applied for a passage to Napier, stating that he had plenty of friends there to look after him. It was stated that he was an old sailor, and had been in the colony since 1839. The application was granted. The wife of a man who had been remanded to Auckland, applied for relief. She was left alone with five children, and was unable to support herself. Rations for herself and five children were granted for a week. A woman who had landed here with 7s in her pocket, and a child two years old, had been sent to the hospital suffering from an imaginary illness. The doctor had stated that she was quite able to work, although she positively denied it. The consideration of this case was adjourned for a week. The secretary stated that, on Sergeant Anderson’s recommendation, he had granted relief to a man recently adjudged a bankrupt, who had a family, and had completely lost heart. Sergeant Anderson had been helping the family as long as he could, but they were in a pitiable state. They recently purchased some meat with 3d that had been given to them, and were so ravenous that they devoured it before it was half-cooked. It appeared, however, that the man had refused to apply to the Benevolent Society. The action of the secretary was approved of, and the rations ordered to be continued. A week's rations had been granted to a woman with four children whose husband had gone away to Carterton. Dr. Diver wrote regarding a woman suffering from paralysis, and recommended that a nurse should be obtained. He also expressed an opinion that a home should be established for those infirm and incurable old people who were refused admittance to the hospital. The secretary further stated that Air T. W. Garratt, chemist, had kindly supplied him with the necessary medicine gratis. The action of the secretary in looking after the case was approved of. Air Fowles asked that a portion of the Orphanage Fund, which had been lodged at the Post Office Savings Bank in the name of the late chairman, Mr Holdswortb, be deposited under some other name. It was agreed that the account be carried on under the name of Mr J. It. Smith, as trustee for the fund.