TOWN & COUNTRY.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 906, 12 July 1889, Page 20

TOWN & COUNTRY.

Property List.—We are in receipt of the property list for July, issued by Mr A: W. Brown, auctioneer and valuator, bf Panama-street.

Appointment of Sheriff. —LieutefaantColonel Roberts, N.Z.C., is appointed sheriff for the district of Wairarapa, vice Mr G. W. von Stilrmer, tranoferred.

Steamers for Foxton, —We understand that owing to the development of the flax industry in the Rangitikei district it has been arranged for the Bteamers Napier and Aerere to make regular trips to that port. The Napier is well known in the Foxton trade, and the Aorere is a handy little boat recently acquired by the Anchor Line, of Nelson, for which Messrs W. and G. Turnbull and Co. are agent 3 here.

Diocesan Affairs. A special meeting of the Standing Committee of the Wellington Diocesan Synod was held yesterday week. Present-—The Primace-eYect (Chairman), the Chancellor (Mr W. H. Quick), tbe Diocesan Treasurer (Mr Powlrs), the Secretary (Ven. Archdeacon Fancourt), Revs.- J. Still and J. Jours, Messrs K. Wilson, C. E. Zohrab, C. C. Graham and C. Rous Marten. The report of the Masterton Parish Commisiioners was discussed at eonsiderab'e length, and it was ultimately resolved Dem. con., on tbe motion of Mr Rous Marten, that the questions involved in that repo ’« be referred to tbe Diocesan Synod at its next session. The meeting then adjourned.

No Organ Recital.—Shortly before 7 o’clock last n ; ght week, Mr Robert Parker, according to his usual custom before a recital," went to cee that tbe St. Paul’s organ was all right, but found it had sustained so serious (though undiecoverable) a mishap as to be rende-.ed wholly' uteless until the damage should have been repaired. Mr Parker spent nearly an hour in endeavouring to reach the seat of the mischief, but all in vain. By 8 o’clock the church was packed whh a crowded audience, there having been, of course, no possibility of making public the accident which bad occurred, so they had to disperee unsatisfied. Kean disappointment was felt at the loss of the recital, but manifestly no blame can be held to attach to anybody for what was a pure mishap at the last moment.

) Cost of American Wheat.—lt was reoently shown in the Australasian from official reports, that the rate of increases in American wheat production dhring recent years has been slower than the growth of home requirements, and it was suggested that a lengthened period of. low prices would result in the United Stages ceasing to be an exporter ,of breadstuff's. Further light is thrown upon the subject by statements concerning the cost of production ir> the Central States. An apparently well-informed journal putß forward an estimate of the cost of raising wheat ih Illinois, and, although the sepal ate items seem reasonable enough, the total cost of putting in the crop and landing it at the market town is 13 dollars, or £2l4s 2d. per acre ; and, with an average crop of 10-4 bushels per acre, this amounts to 5s 4d per bushel. Whether the figures are accurate or not, it seems pretty certain thatiwheat-growing at a low price is not profitable in the Central States ; and although the cost of production is very much less in California, the area available for wheat-growing in that State is comparatively small. The estimate of ooit in the journal referred to is backed up by the statement that in Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, the great Misiiesipi wheat-produoing States, the inoreaie of farm mortgages amounted to 37 per cent between 1880 and 1887. The American farmer can turn to other crops, for the climate enables him to produce a variety of commodities, and tbe low wheat values are already causing him so to tarn. Meeting of Creditors.—A meeting of creditors in the estate of F. T. Harding, produce dealer, was held in the Official Assignee’s office yesterday week. There were three creditors present, and Mr C. C. Graham (Official Assignee) presided. The liabi'ities were set down at £297 ss, and the assets at £99 16s 7d, the deficiency being £197855d. The principal creditors were—W. Andrew, £SB 7s Id ; J. Collins, £47; Anderson, £24195; Linton, Skean'andOo. (Oamarn), £24 ; Laery and C0.,£14; RouseandHurrell, £ls ; Greenwood (Upper Hutt), £l4 ; Virtue and Patterson, £1110s; Horghurstand Brown (Temuka), £11; Mrs Drew, £lO. The debtor, who was represented by Mr Dean, submitted a statement to the effect that he commenced business in December, 18S7, free from debt, with a capital of £7O. About the month of July of the present year he wis taken ill, and in consequence he had been unable to attend to his business for the past three months. He bad also been pat'to considerable expense through sickness in his family, and he attribnted his bankruptcy mainly to this fact. Examined by the (Official' Assignee, the debtor stated that he’had" ndt kept' an’y record of his Receipts And exbebditkre.Latit yeaf he . ifsjs put in‘jfye 'jbudinesd. 5 There was nothing in bis book's Jo” sjiqw hoi? this mdhey had been disposed of, bqt be bgljeyed 'be hid paid Mr Andrews £2O of (t! D;d pqt‘Jkndsr of his position when he borrowed the pjoney from Mr Collins, At a recept peetmg pf his creditors be had offered 6s in the pound. Mr Collins having agreed to guarantee that sum, and was to give bills at three and six months, but twooi to accept it. His wife“had borrow. h ° money for filing, but he did not know where «hegot it. Mrs Harding, inreply fcotheOfficial Assigned, stated that she had borrowed tne money from Mr Collins. In reply to Mr Laery the debtor denied that he had refused to band hip business oyer to Mr Collins. After {further discussion ip tyas decided, on the motion of Mr seconded by Mr Hildreth, that no opposition should be offered to the bankrupt’s immediate discharge. Mr Laery declined to agree tc this, and he left the room while the resolution was being pat. After the motion was carried, the meeting terminated.

New Publications. —Messrs S. and W. Mackay’s new advertisement appears in today's issue.

Improved Fire Escape Ladder.—Messrs James Cole and Alexander Dodaworth, of this city, cabinetmakers, hare applied for letters-patent for an improved fire escape ladder.

Wife Desertion.—A young man named William Tomlins, arrested at Normanby on a charge of wife desertion in Wellington, was brought into town on Friday night by Constable Sherman.

Tenders.—The following tenders have been accepted by the Education Board : Repairs and painting, Ohariu School, George Best, £42 ; iron roof to school at Whiteman’s Valley, W. H, Bennett, £23 18s; shelter sheds, Clyde-quay School, J. Ryan, £36 ; repairs and fencing, Mungaroa School, G. and H. Findlay, £52 17s; additions to Parkvale School, EL Trotman, £169 10s. Sj- In Search of Health.—For some time past Mr F. W. Haybittle, the well-known auctioneer of the firm of G. Thomas and Co., has been in ill health, and has resolved to try the effects of a sea voyage and a trip to warmer latitudes. Accompanied by Mrs Haybittle, he left by the Mararoa for Sydney and Melbourne. We wish him a pleasant voyage and a speedy return to improved health. G. A. Sala’s Brother.—At Bathurst G. F. Sala, who is said to be a brother of the great journalist, and the alleged l sculptor of the famous marble man, appeared before the Small Debts Court in answer to a claim for board and residence. Sala disputed a part of the account. It appears that meals were sent to an old publiohouse, where 3ala, it is alleged, was at work with a mate making the marble man. A verdict was given for plaintiff, with costs. Inquest.—Mr H. W. Robinson, District Coroner, held an inquest at the Hospital on Friday afternoon into the circumstances connected with the death of an asylum patient named Mary Ann Cook. Mr W. H. Barrow was chosen foreman of the jury. It appeared from the evidence of Dr Gray Hassell, medical superintendent of the Asylum, that the cause of death was asthenia, and the jury returned a verdict to that effect. The deceased had been an inmate of the institution since 1873, and aB far as is known had no. relatives in the Colony. -r -The Late Mr J. B. Watson.—The effect of the will of the late Mr J. B. Watson, of Sandhurst, mine owner, has excited much curiosity. The latest was prepared by Mr PymaD, solicitor, of Melbourne, and is in his possession.' According to the Melbourne Telegraph, the testator, it is said, did not leave one penny to any of the charities. He, it is stated on authority, left to his widow and children each £2OOO per annum, with an addition of £IOOO per annum to su ch of his children as have children. The residue is to be accumulated, and finally the total distributed among his grandchildren. A Letts a from General Strange. —The following letter, bearing Saturday’s date, has been addressed to us by General Strange :—• Sir, —As the last trial of the Maxim gun was concluded this morning in the presence of the Premier, the Minister of Defence, and others, and I shall soon be leaving your hospitable and beautiful shores, I wish to thank all concerned for the facilities and fair play given me ; but most of all, I wish to say goodbye, and to thank the kind friends I have found in my short sojourn in this peaoe*loving Emerald Isle, free from the factions and hatreds that have torn its lessfortunate northern sister.—l am, &c., J. Bland Strange. '

Supreme Court. —The prisoner John Dalton, alias Shortali, alias McGregor, alias Hickey, who was found guilty on Tuesday last on a charge of stealing £ll, belonging to William Marquet, from the Rainbow Hotel, Kaiwarra, was brought up for sentence before his Honor Mr Justice Richmond, on Friday, in the Supreme Court, the Crown Prosecutor having entered a nolle prosequi upon the other charge of larceny preferred against the accused. His Honor said this was the first time the prisoner had been before the Supreme Court, but he had given a great deal of trouble in the Resident Magistrate’s Court, having been convicted four timeß. This, however, did not seem to have kepi; him out of mischief. His Honor said he was obliged to give the prisoner a heavy sentence, and he must warn him that he would receive a much heavier sentence if he again came before the court, as it was impossible to allow people like him to prey upon their neighbours. His Honor then sentenced the prisoner to thre9 years' imprisonment with hard labour.

The Postal Guide.— We have to acknowledge receipt of the Postal Guide for the quarter commencing July, 1889. 1

List of Teachers.— A supplement to the New Zealand Gazette was issued last Friday containing a full list of teachers holding certificates under the Education Act, 1877; Painful Accident. —A painful accident happened to Mr H; D. O’Callaghan at the Lower Hutt early on Saturday morning. Mr O’Gallaghan* who was riding on horseback, went too near a ditch, and fell into it and broke his collarbone. The sufferer managed to get as far as the local police station, where Constable Harnett afforded temporary relief. Mr O’Callaghan came into town shortly afterward, when Dr Cahill attended to his his injuries and he subsequently returned home.

Half-Mile Race.—The annual half-mile handicap race in connection with the Athletic Football Club, for a trophy presented by Mr S. Kohn, was run off on the Basin Reserve, on Saturday afternoon. There were thirteen competitors, and J. Mills (45yds) won rather easily, L. Otway (30yds) being second, and W. Scutt (30yds) third. The race was run in 2min and I5s6C; Mr G. F. Campbell started tbß race, and Captain Faulkner and Mr Kohn officiated as judges. TheMaximGun. —Affinal trial of the Maxim gun was made on the reclaimed land at Thorn* don on Saturday afternoon in the presence of the Premier, the Minister of Defence, the Minister of Lands, and several members of the Legislature and officers of the local forces. To show that the gun is suitable for mounting on the bows of the rowing cutters of the Naval Brigade or similar boats. Major. General Strange dashed a bucket of water over the mechanism of the gun, deluging it and the box of ammunition, without delaying the fire for a 1 moment ; so that a wave breaking over the bows of a boat, and even filling the ammunition boxes, would have no effect in delaying the fire for one instant. In short, the serviceable character of this Jjerrible little weapon requires to be seen only to be ‘ thoroughly comprehended. The spectators were deeply impressed with the destructive sweep of the fire exhibited by the gun. .a*Half a Century of Australasian Progress.—We are in receipt, through the agents, Messrs S. and W. Mackay, of Lamb-ton-quay, from the publishers, Messrs Sampson, Low, Marston, Searle, and Rivington, ot a copy of “a personal retrospect of half a century of Australasian progress, by William Westgarth. This work is divided into two parts, the first one being the itinerary of the tour of a revisit, and the second part a series of articles on geaerai questions of Australasia, the colonies, and the empire generally. Mr Westgarth is well-known as an old Australian colonist and now a noted London financier. •He is a prominent Freetrader, and has a decided leaning toward Federation. In this his latest work he views with a critical eye the public men and measures of the colonics, and with a gracefnl pen makes his matter very interesting. He devotes severs 1 chapters to bis visit to New Zealand. At New Plymouth he had an interview with the Premier, and the principal question which cropped up was the present condition of the New Plymouth harbour workß. Mr Westgarth sums up in one pithy sentence, “ Who is to pay the piper for Buch an abortion of a song?’’ From his position as a financier the author has some good advice to offer anent the harbour works, which are well worth reading. Speaking of the City of Welling, ton he says, “It struck me as the least pretentious of all the New Zealand towns. It was decidedly short in town elegancies—even of Invercargill, which was barely half its size.” Ha took great interest in the Manawatu railway line, for he says, “I had always, held in the way of business a large amount of its bonded securities beside something of its Bhare stock. I formed a high opinion of the prospects of tjie line, and expect that ten years, if not sooner, will see it a succession of busy towns and commerce.” Mr Westgarth is a keen observer, and his remarks upon the commerce and politics of this Colony are well worth reading. He {criticises fearlessly and honestly, and although all his readers may not exactly coincide with all his views, yet there is a lot of useful hints to be gathered from a careful study of the work now issned.

LeFrosY. —lt is rumoured that a case of lenrosy exists among the Chinese in this city.

Orange Sermon. —The annual Orange sermon was preached at the Webb-streSt Church on Sunday by Brother the Rev C. E. Ward, W;F i G;M.,th9 subject being “Protestantism, and what it is/’ The sermon was largely attended; Lunacy.—The man Robert Cress well, who was taken into custody on Friday on suspicion of being of unsound mind, was medically examined by Drs Robertson and Rawson on Saturday; and upon their certificate was sent to the Asylum. Reported Gold Discovery.—-TheGovern, ment have received information that payable gold is reported to have been discovered at the end of the Puhipuhi Forest nearest to Kawakawa (Auckland). Ten experienced men are on the groand. The Midland Railway.—The Nelson Mail says “that the Midland Railway Company mean business in earnest, fas shown by the fact that they have recently placed 100,000 sovereigns on deposit with their bankers (the National Bank) at Christohurch.” Thorndon Mutual Improvement Society. usual weekly meeting of the Thorndon Mutual improvement Society was held in the vestry of the Wesleyan Church, Thorndon* Monday night; There ivas a vdry good attendance, and the evening was devoted to various essays, the Rev H. Laws presiding. The essays were fairly criticised, and a most enjoyable time was spent* Hunting.—The Raugitikei hounds will be down about Friday next for the day’s hunting at the Hutt on Monday. Several members of that hunt and three or four ladies will also be down, and several Wairarapa riders and their nags will come for the sport. . His Excellency the Governor and suite will be present. There will be a large muster of riders, and if [only the weather be fine a very excellent day’s sport will' be had.

Strawberries in Winter. —The weather during the past week or ten days has been thoroughly winterly in the city, and yet a curious exhibit was made in the window of Mr W. F. Ross, the fruiterer, on Lambtonquay, on Saturday morning, in the shape of a small dish of ripe strawberries. They were grown by Mr Strand, of Taita, a noted cultivator of choice fruit. Mr Ross, in his 25 years’ experience, says he has never seen strawberries ripo at this season of the year before. Peopie in other parts of the Colony are prone to make fun of the “ wretched Wellington climate, '* but it is a question if even the “sunny north" can produce ripe strawberries at midwinter;

The Weather.- —During the last Week the weather has been wintry in the extreme. Heavy rain fell on Friday and Saturday, and continued with but short intervals the greater part b£ Sunday. On Saturday a sharp southerly gale was experienced. The yacht Poneke, owned by Mr H. Thomas, lying on her stocks in Oriental Bay, was damaged to the extent of about £5 by being capsized by the high sea and wind. The s.s. Kanieri left the wharf on her usual trip, but could not pro* ceed further thau the Heads owing to the heavy sea running outside. Several other vessels were detained in port for the same reason. The Manapouri from the •'forth, and the Rotorua from the South met with heavy weather, and report having had a rough time of it on their trips. Friendly Societies. —There was a large gathering of members of the various Friendly Societies at the Exchange Hall on Monday night to hear a paper on Friendly Societies read by Mr E. Mason, Registrar. Sir Harry Atkinson, who presided, said he was desirous of identifying himself as far as possible with the Friendly Societies of New Zealand. The object of the meeting, he understood, was to hear the Registrar of Friendly Societies (Mr E. Mason) deliver a lecture similar to that he had given a year or two ago, and he had no doubt that he (Mr Mason) would say some hard things, but they would be for the benefit of the societies, and not in any antagonistic spirit. The object of everyone, he thought, should be to put the friendly societies on the beßt possible footing. As they were no doubt aware, several questions had been asked in the House with regard to the position of friendly societies, and he pointed out that his object and the object ’of the Government was to set the societies upon a sound financial basis. He expressed a hope that some of the experienced members of the societies would see him about the matter. Mr Mason then delivered a most exhaustive and lengthy address, in which he deprecated any attempt at compulsory legislation in the matter, and urged that education was the only means to cure the evils that exist in friendly societies in this Colony, and that a system of coercion would necessarily and lamentably fail. He said that in many cases an utter indifference had been evinced to those warnings which the Registrar and the Public Valuer had given to societies whose votes of contribution are inadequate to provide the benefits offered. He thought that by moral suasion men could be taught to see the evils he complained of without the necessity of parliamentary enforcement, At the conclusion of his address Mr Mason was heartily cheered. Mr T. Kennedy Macdonald moved a hearty vote of thanks to the Premier for his kind address, which was carried by acclamation. Mr Benbow proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Mason for his very interesting address, which was carried unanimously. Mr Mason briefly responded, and said ho hoped his address would be productive of some practical good. A hearty vote of thanks was passed to Mr T. K. Macdonald for the free use of the hall for the meeting. Mr Macdonald said he was always pleased to do what he could for the friendly societies of this Colony.

Sewerage of the City. Codneillor Chapman gave notice to move at the meeting of the City Council last evening, “That a committee be appointed, consisting of the Mayor, Councillors Brown, Smith, Fraser* Harris, and the mover, to inquire into! the best means and probable cost of completing and perfecting the sewerage of the city.”

Skating.— Professor R. G, Aginton, the champion fancy skater of the world, arrived by the Tekapo from Sydney on Monday, on route for England,- sailing by the Kaikoura on Thursday. The professor’s latest viotory was over Mr Wyman, whom he met in a contest for £2OO a-side and the championship. He is a much travelled man, and has followed his business in Europe and America* and latterly he has been in Australia, where he made an Unsuccessful eSort to meet Professor Simmons.

Seatoun Road Board. The ordinary monthly meeting of the Seatoun Road Board was held at the Board's office, Willis-street, oii Monday*, there being present Messrs C. Plimmer (Chairman), and H. D. Crawford. A letter was received from the Town Clerk Btating that consideration of the request of the deputation as to the road at the hes-d of Evans Bay had been, referred to the Public Works Committee. A letter was received from fcheDefenceOffioe as to the proposed new toad* and intimating that the Government would give £IOO toward the work in fulfilment of the promise made by the late Government. A rate of tbree-farthings in the pound on all rateable property in the district; payable on the 23rd inst.- at the Board’s office, was struck. The Board resolved that the clerk’s fidelity guarantee should be £IOO, the same as last; year, and that a policy be taken out in the name of the Seatoun Road Board instead of the Kil* birnie as heretofore; The Board also altered the hours of attendance to the same as that of the Melrose Borough Council. This being all the business, the Board adjourned.

Zealand Flora." —We have received Part 111. of “The Art Album of New Zealand Flora,” by Mr and Mrs E._ H. Featon. It is fully equal to either of its predecessors —which we have favourably noticed in due course —indeed the illustrations seem to us finer as a rule thau those in the earlier numbers. The frontispiece is a veritable collection of brillisffit floral beauties, among which the red kowh'ai stands out conspicuously, to which the deep blue pendulous fruit of the tawa offers an effective contrast, while varieties of clematis, manuka and other flowers are combined with ferns to compose a singularly charming picture; In other plateß the yellow kowhai is well (but perhaps a little too vividly) illustrated and the manuka, with its pretty pink and white blossoms, the superb scarlet rata and the rare white variety of the same plant, also the lovely pohutukawa, the dainty rama-sama, and the delicate maire flowers are all splendidly depicted. The descriptive letterpress is admirable, being alike interesting and instructive. The ctsromo-litho-graphic work and the printing have been carried out by Messrs Bock and Cousins, of this city, in a style which leaves nothing to be desired, and the publication is in every respect one of which the Colony may well be proud. The Ballad Concert. —The ballad concert, organised on behalf of the Diocesan Library Enlargement Fund, came off Monday night with much success. The Tinakoriroad Schoolroom, which had been tastefully decorated lor the occasion with ferns and foliage, was filled in every part, and there must have been a handsome balance toward the fund. The programme was wholly of a “popular' character, nothing at all musically abstruse being admitted. Miss Katharine Hardy sang with admirable artistic taste and finish Clay's song, ‘ bhe wandered down the mountain side ; ihe banks of Allan water"; Eckert's very florid and difficult V Echo ” song, and the evergreen “ Home, sweet home; winning loud applause and two recalls. Miss Whitaker's expressive singing of ‘ Dear heart" also elicited hearty applause and a recall, as did her humorous presentation in Maori of a favourite old English ditty. Mrs Parsons gave an excellent interpretation of Co wen’s “A world between” and Schubert’s “Ave Maria.” Miss Williams and Mr Brock sang Fannv Hensel’s rather trivial duet “ Zuleika and Hassan ” (often wrongly attributed to Mendelssohn) very pleasingly, and Mr Brock, who possesses a very agreeable tenor voice, contributed “ Sigh no more, ladies” and “The river of years,” in which he was encored. Mr Morey’s tasteful singing and Mr Kennedy’s efficient violin playing were worthy of a better medium of display than the uninteresting song, “Fiddle and 1, with its carious obbligato. The purely instrumental items were only two in number, an effective duet-arrangement of airs from Nicolai’s tuneful opera “Die lastigen weiber, ” capitally, played by Misses Cooper and Hadfield, and a sparkling tarantelle by. Fowler, brilliantly interpreted by Miss Medley. Two part-songs were sung by.a small choir. The pianoforte accompaniment to the respective songs were shared by Miss Williams, Miss Hardy, and Miss Hudheid. In the interval refreshments were dispensed and were evidently much appreciated. The concert ended commendably early.

Pawnbroker’s License.—Mr H. W« Robinson, R.M., on Saturday renewed th» pawnbroker’s license held by G. W. Smart* of Manners-street. The police offered no objection.

The Athenasum Lib r ari anship. We understand that of the three candidates who« were selected from tne 08 applicants for the; Athenaeum iibrarianship to have an interview with the Committee on Thursday evening* one has already obtained a better appointment and has consequently withdrawn his. application. The Committee’s choice will therefore be between the two remaining competitors.

Action for Damages.—A writ has been served upon the Corporation by Mr W. T. L. Travers, acting on behalf of Mr Ti &• Maearthy, claiming £6001) damages for befouling a stream which runs through his property in Manners-street, which was the subject of a claim for compensation in consequence of deprivation of foreshore rights, in th® Compensation Court a few weeks ago-. As an alternative Mr Mac&rtby claims that the Corporation should carry out an agreement made by the eX-Mayor (Mr S. Brown) to supply him with sufficient water to work the flourmill on his property. The action will be heard at the civil sittings of the Supreme Court next month. Mr X, F» Martin will represent the Corperation.

A New Departure.—What the Melbourne Age terms a very important “new departure ” is included in the Amended Public Service Bill, which is to be laid before the Victorian Parliament at an early date. This is to the effect that no married women shall be allowed to remain in. the Government employ, and that any single woman who- enters the marital state Bhall thereby be held to resign her engagement in the State service. It is understood that the clause applies to school teachers as well aa to other branches, and that it is impartial in its scope, comprehending all married women who are at present in the employment of the* Crown. The objectionable incidents attendant upon the retainment of married schoolmistresses have long been regarded as a scandal, and the matter was recently before the Auckland Education Board.

A Strange Disease.—Several cases oS. disease known to science as plica polonioa. are known to have occurred in the neighbourhood of Masterton (says the Wairarapa* Daily), one of them, that of a girl about twenty year's of age, having terminated fatally. The malady is in every respect, a most singular one, and hitherto has been confined to Poland and its neighbourhood, and to persons born there. In its first stage, which lasts for several years, it ia difficult to distinguish it from rheumatism, while in the second the bair becomes entangled in a mo3t extraordinary manner, being held together by a nauseous; brown substance. If the hair is cut off the poison takes possession of one or more joints at the extremities (which are generally lo3t, and not unfrequently of the nose. In the final stage a fresh growth of hair takes place ; the diseased portion may then be removed, and the patient is re-estab-lished in health. There appears to bn. no known remedy for the disease, which is? neither contagious ror infectious.

“The Reproach of Annesley.“Tho Silence of Dean Maitland,’' the first important work of the invalid lady who calls herself “ Maxwell Gray,” created so powerful an impression that it is not surprising the second novel from the same gifted pen should have been received with eagerness. “The Reproach of Annesley” has been issued in Messrs Kegan Paul, Trench and Co/s Indian and Colonial series of standard novels, and we have received a copy through Messrs Lyon and Blair, who have obtained a .supply of thß work. While in some respects falling short of its predecessor in intensity of plot and situation, it possesses equal fascination of style aud interest of story. The descriptions of the South of England scenery and peasantry are as charming as ever, and all the characters are well and effectively drawD. It would' be unfair to give a synopsis of the plot, which our readers will prefer to. unravel for them, selves, but we may say that it turns on the love of three young men, all differing widely in person and disposition, for the same girl, while she and another girl are both in love with one of these three young men. Here is a nice little web to disentangle! How cleverly the author manages it the numerous readers of “Dean Maitland” will be at no loss'to imagine. _ Perhaps the case of Paul is a littie overdrawn, but it is none the less interesting. We can cordially commend this book to all in search of a charming novel.

' R.M.S. Tongarlßo. —The R.M.S. Touga’riro left Hobart at 2 am Wednesday morning for Wellington direct. She Bhould arrive here by Monday or Sunday next. She brings 82 passengers for this Colony.

Dinner at Government House.— His Excellency the Governor entertained at dinner on Tuesday, at Government House, •the following members of the Legislature aDd heads of official departments :■ —Messrs E. G. J. Stevens, Lancelot Walker, G. McLean, and W. Reeves, M.L.C.'s; E. Richardson, M.H.E.; J. MoKerrow and G. S. Cooper; Major-General Strange and Major Campbell. Mr Riversdale Walrond, Mr G&rlaad, and Captain Savile were also present.

Benevolent Society Trustees. The insnal weekly meeting of the Benevolent .‘Society Trustees was held at the Queen’s 'Chambers on Tuesday afternoon, there being present—Bev H. Van Staveren (chairman), Messrs G. M. Kebbell, S. Danks, C. E. Willeston, B. Smith,, and P. Monaghan. A large number of cases were relieved, whilst several others were struck oft the books. The ration board and lodging orders for the week were passed. An account' of 5a was passed for payment, while another of £3 12s was deferred to the end of the month. The Ghairman made some remarks about the proposed Hospital and Charitable Aid Bill now before the House. He stated that the Bill was defective and would not be produo* five of any good; and there was no allowance made for local charity. He strongly protested against the Bill becoming Haw, and moved a resolution —‘ * That we, as a Board of Trust in the Wellington Benevolent Institution, strongly protest against the Bill becoming law.” Mr P. Monaghan seconded the resolution, which was carried unanimously. Mr Danks said he had had a very long experience in charity, and agreed with the motion. He went on to abate that the cost of charity in this Colony es greater than in Australia. He drew comparison with Australia and New Zealand with regard to the climate as being the cause of it. Mr Willeston concurred in Mr Monaghan’s remarks. The Chairman said that a reciprocity treaty should be established between Australia and New Zealand, so that each of the colonies would easily reach wife deserters. It was his (the chairman’s) opinion it would prove beneficial. This being all the business, the Trustees ad • journed.

Hutt County Council. The ordinary monthly meeting of the Hutt County Council was held at the offices of the Council on Tuesday, there being present Messrs J. Wakeham (Chairman), P. Monaghan, J. Barton, J. Taylor, F. Darby, F. Death, D. Speedy, G. W. Brown and S. Lancaster. Councillor Speedy inquired if anything was going to be done by the Council with regard to the Charitable Aid Bill. The Chairman thought the Bill would be thrown out by the House of Representatives, and this statement was borne out by the rest of the Councillors. A circular was read with regard to the rabbit pest, and the Councildecided to take no action an the matter. ' A letter was received from the mining department of the Dunedin Exhibition asking the Council to forward mineral specimens, as the Commissioners Were desirous of obtaining a good collection of exhibits from the Colony. It was deeided to let the matter lie on the table. A letter was received from the ControllerGeneral, stating that in consequence of the recent decision of the Supreme Court in the case of the Maniototo County, the disallowance of travelling expenses contained in any previous certificates to the accounts of the Hutt County is now withdrawn. A letter was received from the Wellington District Board, asking that a whare on the Akatarinaroad should be removed. The Council decided to leave the matter in the hands of the Inspector of Roads. A large number of Setters were received from various County Councils, stating that they agreed with the Hutt Council with regard to the petition about the alteration of the licensing laws. The Road Inspector Btated that with regard to the culvert at Johnsonville, he had made an inspection and found that the roadman had - removed the culvert to replace it. The Council decided to leave the matter in Mr Dimant's hands. Councillor Barton proposed, and Councillor Speedy seconded, “That the Government be asked to convey the land and buildings at the Upper Hutt, and known act the Stockade, to the Hutt County Council; and that the Council have power to let either buildings or land, and that all rents be paid into the county funds." The resolution was carried unanimously. The -following amounts were passed for payment:—General expenses, £298 3s 4d ; charitable aid, £3B 3s sd. The Counoil then went into committee to consider the Charitable Aid Bill, now before Parliament ; and on the Council resuming the following resolution was agreed to, on the motion of Councillor Taylor, seconded by Councillor Brown “ That, in the opinion of this Council, the Colonial Secretary's Hospital and Charitable Aid Bill is objectionable, on the ground that, while the county and the other portions of the district would have to contribute a large proportion of the funds required, the Council will have no say or control in the spending of the same. That copies of the resolution be sent to the Colonial Secretary and to the various members of the district."

Child Desertion.; —A man named Robert Davison Petrie, who was arrested at Woodville by Constable Carmody on Monday on a charge of failing to provide for his child at Rangiora, was brought down by the Masterton train on Tuesday night. He was forwarded South next day. English Mails. —The Post-office authorities have bseu advised by cable that the R.M.S. Zealandia, with the English mail of the 15th June, left Sau Francisco for Auckland on the 29th ult., timetable date, and that the R.M.S. Alameda, with the colonial mails of the 17 f -h June, arrived at San Francisco from Auckland on the 6th inst., timetable date.

Water Pressure. —On Monday night a hose was employed in washing the front of Jacob Joseph and Co’s building, on Lambton-quay, now occupied by the New Zsalaud Drug Company. A fine jet of water was thrown with great force against the building, and to show the power of the pressure in the mains the' stream of water Was thrown at least 20 feet above the summit of the building. Wesleyan Sunday School. —At a largelyattended meeting of the Committee of the Wesleyan Sunday School, Taranaki-street, on Tuesday, it was decided to hold a bazaar on a large scale early in December next, for the purpose of raising funds for the enlargement of the Sunday school, A number of committees were appointed to arrange the details, and judging from the interest taken in the matter the bazaar should prove a great success. i

Interesting News. —The good young man in London who compiles the supposed interesting items of news for the colonial newspapers must have been very hard up for news, or else was under the impression that we in the colonies are ever thankful for any crumb swept from the tables of court society when he wired on Tuesday that “Charles Hern (an Australian artist) had presented the Princess Louise of Wales with one of hia water colours as a wedding present.” No doubt the youthful Princess will value the handiwork of her teacher of painting, and as Mr Hern’s works possess considerable merit, his gift will be fully appreciated ; but we fail to see the intrinsic value of such information to the general public of. New Zealand. Mr Hern was well paid for his services to the family of the Prince of Wales, and as probably all the other Royal servants will, as in duty bound, make presents of some kind to the young Countess of Fife in due course, probably the good young man in London will send us full particulars of each separate gift, for it will be very interesting to know what the head housemaid, the laundry maid, and the chief butler will present to the future mistress of the house of Fife.

City Council —The report of the Public Works Committee of the City Council that was to be submitted at tho meeting of the Council last night, is as follows :—The Committee beg to recommend—That the work asked for in Coromandel-street be not undertaken, there being no funds available for same. That a footway be formed along the side of Wesley-road from Bolton street to the Botanical Garden fence. That tenders be invited for painting the Martin Fountain. That tho Government be asked to introduce a Bill or an amendment in the Municipal Corporation Act to enable the Corporation to carry out the proposed arrangement with the Government, and with Messrs J. Kitchen and Sons with respect to water supply. That the value of the land at the back of the Grainger-street properties be fixed for compensation purposes at £ls per foot. That a reply be sent to the Seatoun Road Board that the Council is unable to contribute toward the formation of the proposed road at the bead of Evans Bay. That clause 2of tho Finance Committee’s report of the 27th June, referred to this Committee for consideration, be passed as printed. That a reply be sent to the petitioners for a drain to be laid from Lambton-quay to Wellington, terrace that the Council is unable to accede to their request. That accounts amounting to £261 5s lid be passed for payment. The Girls' High School. —• Tuesday was a red-letter-day for the “lassies” of the Girlß’ High School. The promised visit by Lord and Lady Onslow was made, and the girls looked their best for the occasion. And a charming assemblage they were as they grouped in tho central hall to receive their distinguished visitors —New Zealand’s daughters every one of them, and probable mothers of a future nation. No doubt this fact appealed forcibly to bis Excellency as he gazed upon the fresh young faces turned to him with expectant interest. Children of New Zealand birth and growth, fed upon New Zealand food, receiving New Zealand education in the land of their nativity ; they were in fact At Home to all intents and purposes, as we believe, under the kindly rule of Miss Hamilton, the High School is a veritable dulce domum to most of them. Lord and Lady Onslow were received by the Lady Principal, Sir James Hector, Rev Mr Paterson, Mr Izard, M.H.R., members of the Board of College and High School Governors, and Mr Powles, Secretary. They wore conducted through the school, and the system of instruction was explained to them, and then proceeded to the central hall, where the lower classes had already assembled. The girls sang some appropriate verses very sweetly, and then the fifth and sixth class girls came in and gave an exhibition of their proficiency. The several teachers were also introduced to Lord and Lady Onslow, and Mias Wilson, the dux of the school, presented Lady Onslow with a lovely bouquet. His Excellency shortly addressed the girls, expressing the gratification the visit had afforded him, and, inter alia, hoped they would always remember England as their Home, and that they all would go there some day. He trusted the Lady Principal would see her way to give the school a half-holiday in commemoration of his visit, and then took his departure with Lady Onslow, attended by his Aide-de-camp and Secretary. The school had its half-holiday, and private opinions were freely expressed at the delightfulness of a visit from Lord and Lady Onslow two or three times a week.