TOWN & COUNTRY.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 937, 14 February 1890, Page 20

TOWN & COUNTRY.

Totalisator Investments. —The amount registered as p rasing through the two totalisators at the Hutt yesterday week was £5394. New By-law. — A new by-law, to be termed “The Waterworks By-law, 1890,” was adopted at a special meeting of the City Council last night week. Traffic Returns. —The traffic returns of tbe Wellington and Mauawatu Railway for the week ending February 1, 1890, amounted to £1504 8s lid, and for the corresponding period of last year £1303 7s 6J, showing an increase of £2Ol Is sd. Fruit Evaporation. —The fruit evaporator referred to by Mr Spawn at the late public meeting has been in use at the Dry River Station for some little time. The machine, the dried apples, aud the sweet jelly made from the coresand parings were to have been exhibited at the late W ellington Bhow. Musical Vacancy. —Owing to continued ill health, Herr Siede, the veteran conductor of the Melbourne Leidertafel, has resigned his position, which he has occupied with so much skill and ability during the past seventeen yrars. The hon. secretary to the Society invites applications for the position thus rendeied vacant, which is one of the highest musical posts in Australasia. Application. —Atyesterday week’s sitting the Magistrate's Court, Mr Haselden made an application ti be allowed to file an information for porjury against a person living in Greytown, in which place, it was alleged, the offence had been committed. Aftei hearing evidence, hia Worship declined to accede to the request, as he was of opinion that the case should be heard where the offence was committed. Presentation. The members of the Kaiwhara Brass Band, having made great progress under the tuition of Mr S. Cimino, made a presentation to Masters Salvatore and Charles Cimino last week in recognition of the assistance given by thoie young gentlemen and the interest taken by their father in the band. On behalf of the bandsmen, Mr Flaus presented Master Salvatore Cimino with a silver.mounted morocco desk, and his brother with a silver inkstand, and in doing so expressed the gratitude of the donors to Mr Cimino. Export of Butter. —By the last three Direct steamers leaving this port Mr G. H. Scales, the well-known produce merchant of this city, made the three highest shipments of butter ever recorded in the Colony, namely, 1650 packages by the Kaikeura, 2250 packages by the Aorangi, and 1450 packages by the RimuUka. The Kaikoura shipment was, at tbe time it was made, the largest for which a bill of lading had been given, and as each package would average from 60 to 80 pounds, it will be evident that the export was a very large one indeed. All this butter, it may be mentioned, was produced in the Wairarapa and Taranaki, and it is exceedingly gratifying to find those districts able, not only to produce the article, but also to find a good market for it. Adjudged a Bankrupt. —At the sitting of the Bankruptcy Courfcyeuterday week, before the Chief Justice, William Andrew Young, coach proprietor, was adjudicated a bankrupt, on the petition of Meisrs Rouse and Hurrell, coachbuiiders, on the ground that he had failed to satisfy a judgment for £195 15s obtained against him by the petitioners in November last. Mr Edwards appear: d for the petitioners, but Mr Young was not represented. The ascets are £4260, the creditors being as follow : A. Young, £3500 ; Rouse and Hurrell, £4OO ; Rowe and Sons, £63 ; New Zealand Loan aud Mercantile Agency Company, £233; Duthie and Co., £l4; small amounts, £SO. The liabilities are set down as £SIOO, namely, approximate value of patent rights of palace cars, £5000; one omnibus, £IOO. A surplus of £B4O is thus shown. Bankrupts’ Statement. —In the bankrupt estate of Sinclair Bros., sawmillers, of Pitone, the liabilities are stated to be £720 11s 7d and the assets at £BO4 4 ' 3d, thus leaving a surplus of £BB 12s Bd. The principal creditors of the firm are—Mrs A. Sinclair, £7O ; Nees and Son, £SO ; J- Price (Pitone), £ls 16s Id ; Coulter (Waiwetu), £10; Stewart and Co., £6 18s 6d ; Ballinger Bros, £5 12s ; Halley and Ewing. £8 6s; J. August (Pitone), £8 12s 4d ; A. Banman (Pitone), £ls; Carpenter and Jackson (Pitone), £ll 11s lOd; tidy and Sutton (Matarewa), £2O 19s; D. Wilkie (Pitone), £l3 5s Sd ; J. Nathan and Co., £6 4s 4d ; J. Udy (Carterton), £6S 12*. In the private estate of Archibald Sinclair, the liabilities are £2O 11s ; and- in that of John Sinclair £ls Is lid." The secured creditors are the Empire Loan Company, who, for a debt of £6O, hold a security valued at £2OO, and Powly, who holds a security valued at £430 10s for a debt of £3lO. A Paragon. —The following advertisement is from the Oxford Guardian : —“ A beneficed clergyman can conscientiously recommend a young lady between twenty-three and as a superior housekeeper. She possesses two rare qualifications being domesticated and accomplished. She can play and sing, and knows practically how to cook a nice dinner with economy and punctuality ; plays the harmonium at church with much taste, and can sing any difficult music at sight. Is an early riser. Knows how to drive. A total abstainer from every kind of intoxicating drinks from her childhood. She is nicelooking, bright, and cheerful; no gossiper ; highly intellectual, but - unassuming ; quick correspondent, and a good grammarian. A brother clergyman, or an influential layman, or a lady in, need of ft confidential companionable housekeeper, would not be disappointed. Her commanding presence and modest, attractive demeanour, appreciated by rich and poor. Sbe has now 25 guineas a year, and deserves more. A native of Surrey, and of a respectable family. Satisfactory reference to a country magistrate and his wife. .Ad* dress, Rector of Ingoldnaells, Lincolnshire,”

Colonising.—At a meeting of the Napier Freemasons’ Board of Benevolence a few” days ago a grant was made to a petitioner who was 67 years of age and had 39 chil* dren, the youngest being an infant three months old, at least so says the Napier Telegraph. The Federation Conference. —Wo publish on page 22 Sir Henry Parke3’ speech on Federation, delivered at the Federation Conference in Melbourne on Thursday night. It will be seen that his speech is on the same lines as the one he previously delivered in New Sooth Wales, and which we commented upon at the time.

Gunshot Wound. —A lad named George Brown, 15 years of age, whose parents reside at the Upper Hutt, was admitted to the Hospital on Friday afternoon suffering from a gunshot w und. Both the unfortunate boy’s legs were quite shattered below the knees, apart of the bona of the lefc leg being blown away. He is slowly progress ng.

Distinguished Visitors. —Lord Kintore (Governor of South Australia) and Lady Kintore, accompanied by Colonel Gardner (Lady Onslow’s brother) and Mrs Gardner, were passengers by the steamer Jlotorua, which arrived from Nelson on Friday morning. The party were received by the Mayor, who welcomed them to Wellington on behalf of the citizens. Their further movements are recorded elsewhere.

Making His Way.—We are glad to hear of the continued progress of Mr A. P. Hill in his pursuit of musical excellence in Germany. He ia fast developing into a highclass musician, as may be inferred from tho fact of the favourable reception by the Leipzig musical authorities of a composition by him, entitled “ Albumblatt.” It is for the violin or ’cello, and was introduced to tho public by the ’cello virtuoso, Herr Schrbder.

Kicked by a Horse. —At 4 o’clock on Saturday afternoon a man named Stephen Strand, a farmer, residing at the Lower Hutt, met with an accident in Sydney, street while in the act of mounting his horse, previous to proceeding home. The horse becoming restivo aud rearing, struck Mr Strand on the back of his head. He was immediately examined by Dr Grace, who, fearing concussion of the brain, ordered the man’s removal to the Hospital, where he was accordingly conveyed in an express. On inquiry at the Hospital we learnt that Mr Strand was progressing satisfactorily.

The Eiffel Tower. —Observations with the anemometer on the summit of the Eiffel Tower 3how that during a period of 101 days ending October 1, the average velocity of the wind was 16 miles an hour, whereas at the Paris Meteorological Office 66ft above the ground it was only 5 miles an hour. The diurnal variation of velocity at the ground showed a minimum about sunrise, and a maximum about 1 p.m. ; whereas on tbe tower the minimum occurred at 10 a m. and the maximum at 11 p.m. Such au inversion is usual on high mountains, but was not suspected at the height of 994 ft, where the instrument was placed. Those Guns !—Great Britain is sorely agitated about its great guns, those modern monsters which swallow explosives by the cwt and iron by the ton. They can’t be made to stand the tremendous stress of the discharge. The inner tubes crack and split, and in one case, that of an 111 ton monster designed for the new ironclad Victoria, a whole fleet in herself, the gun literally bent between the trunnions and the muzzle, and suffered a deflection of between two and three inches ! There are now five first-class battle ships l :—The Howe, Rodney, Trafalgar, Victoria, and Sanspareil waiting for their guns, aud the latter seem to be nowhere. There ia a growing opinion in favour of limiting the weight of artillery to 60 or 70 tons. It takes two years to manufacture one of the larger guns, and then the result is extremely uncertain.

Native Land Court. —A Native Land Court is at present being held in the Wesleyan schoolroom, Sydney-street, under the presidency of Judges Mair and Scannell on the Ngarara block case. The land in question is a block of about 30,000 acres, situate at Waikanae, and the present case is a rehearing of certain claims for subdivision, the application for which was refused by Chief Judge Macdonald. The matter, in addition to being dealt with by the Native Laud Court, has been before both Houses and committees of both Houses of Parliament for the last two sessions, and a Royal Commission, composed of Messrs Seth Smith and W. Trimble, the former of whom is now the Chief Judge and the latter a Judge of the Native Land Court, took evidence, and made a report to Parliament on the case some fifteen months ago. During last session a special Act was passed granting a rehearing, and making other directions, and the present Court is sitting for the purpose of carrying the Act into effect. Three lawyers are engaged, Mr Stafford acting for the general body of Native owners (some 45 in number), Mr C. B. Morison and Mr G. Sinclair being engaged for several of the applicants for subdivision. The Court began to sib on tha 13th ultimo, and js expected to last quite a month longer. Considerable interest is taken in the case by the Natives, numbers of whom from Waikanae, Taranaki and elsewhere are now in town.

The Onslow Borough Petition. —Mr H. S. Wardell, the commissioner appointed to inquire into the petition in favour of and against the formation of the Borough of Onslow, sat again on Friday morning to hear evidence. Mr Haselden appeared for the petitioners, and Mr Travers for the counter petitioners. Evidence was given by Mr W. Jones, clerk of th 6 Hutt County Council, to the effect that in his capacity as clerk of the Wellington Highway Board he had received counter petitions from Wadestown and Johnsonville. The rateable values and names of signatories were attached to the counter petition, but he was unable to say whether the values agreed with those on the ratepayers’ roll. Mr Powell, chairman of the Johnsoaville Town Board, was examined with a view of showing that the names of certain counter petitioners were not on the roll. Further evidence having been taken, the Commission adjourned untii Tuesday.

The Rev R. Coffey.—The Rev R. Coffey, of St. Mark’s Church, was announced to preach on Sunday night at the Cathedral in Christchurch.

The Wanganui River. —It is evident that the Wanganui people are anxious to develop the trade of the “Rhine ” of their district. It is rumoured that a local syndicate contemplate ordering a steamer from England for the up-river trading. We hope they will be successful, for, without doubt, that magnificent river will, before long, be the means of opening up a valuable tract of country.

Fire. —Information was received by Inspector Thomson on Saturday to the effect that a six-roomed dwellinghouse cwned and occapied by Mr Seth Hart, Dalefied, near Carterton, had been destroyed by fire. The building was insured for £IOO in the Northern Insurance Company’s office, the same Company holding a risk af £SO upon the furniture. The loss is estimated at £2OO above the insurance.

Suicide. —Inspector Thomson received a telegram from Constable Darby, of Carterton, on Saturday morning stating that a woman named Eliza Nicholls had been found hanging at her residence in Richmond-road. From the appearance of tho body it was supposed that the unfortunate woman had been dead quite a week.

Railway Employes Insurance Bill.— The Commissioners having agreed to allow their omployds to vote on this Bill on the ordinary principle of the ballot, fresh voting papers have been issued. The papers that had already been distributed (and which were objected to) were made returnable on Saturday last. Such of them as had been filled up, however, have been handed back to the men, and the vote will now be taken by ballot.

Fire at Lowry Bay.—A fire broke out on Saturday in a farmhouse at Lowry Bay, occupied by Mr Barton. The kitchen took fire from some cause or other, and the whole building was in great danger. Fortunately there were plenty of willing hands to give assistance, a number of carpenters being employed on a building in course of erection in that locality. These men, who worked very energetically, pulled the kitchen down, and in that way, as well as by a liberal use of water, saved the farmhouse.

The Garrison Band. —In order that this city may be represented at the Dunedin Exhibition band contest, the Garrison Band are endeavouring to make such pecuniary arrangements as will enable them to compete. On Saturday afternoon they performed on the Thorndon Esplanade, and made a collection in aid of their enterprise. The Band have made great progress recently, and we trust that any efforts they may make with a view to the representation of Wellington at a colonial contest like this will be liberally responded to.

The Auckland Tramways.—The prospectus of the Auckland Tramway Company is published in the Melbourne newspapers. The capital is £IOO,OOO, in 200,000 shares of 10s each. First issue, 100,000 shares ; 30,000 shares, paid up, are taken by the vendors, who are the promoters. Seventy thousand shares are offered to the public on the following terms :—2s 6d on application, 2s 6d on allotment, 2s 6d at three months, and 2s 6d at six months. After enumerating the properties of the Company, which have cost £90,000, and are now offered to the public at £50,000, the prospectus says It is proposed to run the cars by eleotricity, which will effect a considerable saving in the. cost per car per mile. Also to secure the right to light the city, from which a large additional revenue is expected to be derived at a very small additional cost, as one central station will supply both motive and illuminating power. Coal of the best steaming quality has been offered to the promoters at under Iss per ton, consequently the station can be worked at unusually small cost. It is proposed to ask the Municipal Council of Auckland for an extension of the Company’s rights beyond their unexpired term of 16 years, and for leave to run the oars on Sundays (which is not at present allowed), which, when acquired, will give an increase to the receipts with a very small addition to the working expenses. Preliminary negotiations have been opened with the local Council, and it is anticipated that there will be no difficulty in securing these concessions. When the proposed alterations are complete, and concessions obtained, there will, undoubtedly, be an immense increase in the revenue, as well as a decrease in the general expenditure — the cost of eleotricity as a motive power being only about one-third that of horsepower.

Representation Commission. Colonel Haultain has been re appointed to the office of Representation Commissioner, which he resigned some time ago. Free Public Library.—The total amount now subscribed in aid of the Free Public Library is £2262 16s. The latest contributions are Rev H. Driver, £1 ; A. Hoby, £2 2s.

Sale of Land. —We are informed by J. D. McKerrow and Co., land agents, of this city, that through their agency 2338 acres of the far-famed Oroua Downs estate has been sold to a Southern client of theirs, at a price alike pleasing to both sellers and buyers.

Government Railway Employes Insurance Bill —The Railway Commissioners have decided that the vote of their employes on this Bill shall be taken “ by means of ballot papers returnable direct to the Commissioners.” This is what the employes asked for.

Second Chapter.—The “ smell case,” in which proceedings are taken against the owner and occupants of premises on Lamb-ton-quay, reached its second chapter on Friday, when it was adjourned for a week by Mr Robinson, R.M., Jellicoe, the prosecutor, being away from Wellington. The Bishop of Wellington.—The Bishop of Wellington left town on Saturday to pay a pastoral visit to several of the country townships and hold confirmations, etc. The Bishop next proceeds to Napier to attend a meeting in connection with missions. The Bishops of Auckland and Waiapu will also be present. Bishop Hadfield will be absent from Wellington about a fortnight.

Hunting and Agriculture.—The question as to the harm doae to farmers by hunting has been revived in England. Hunters and farmers have been brought face to face by means of correspondence, and a meeting of the Warwickshire Chamber of Agriculture was called to consider the subject. It was freely discussed, and hunting won the day by seventeen votes to thirteen. The feeling of the minority was, it is said, by no means emphatically antagonistic. The most of the thirteen were favourable to hunting under certain restrictions that could be easily applied. Hunting has a very strong hold upon the English people, and the time is not yet when, at a meeting of English farmers, a majority could be found to vote against it. Fruit Culture. —The Committee appointed at the publio meeting held on Monday evening to investigate Mr A. F. Spawn’s inventions and make the necessary business arrangements ' for bringing them into use in Wellington, have been prosecuting their labors daring the week. A proposition having been made by Mr Spawn, tke Committee made a canvass of the town with a view to the formation of a company to take up and carry on tho business of fruit preserving, eto. Unfortunately they did not meet with such success as warranted them going any further in the matter ; and at a meeting held on Friday afternoon (Mr 3. R. Blair presiding) it was finally decided that the Committee was not in a position to carry the negotiations on. The Oomipittee resolved, however, to urge the Govermpent, to give bonuses with a view to encouraging fruit growing and preserving. Mr Spawn, who has lost a week in Wellington, proceeds South by the first steamer. Supreme Court. —The civil sittings of the Supreme Court were opened on Monday morning, the Chief Justice presiding. Only one case was heard, that of Maule v. Archer, referred to elsewhere. The cases of Henderson v. Gilmer and Hoffman v. Wakefield and another were struck off the list, having been settled privately, while the oases of Jack v. Stewart, and Hamilton v. Simmonds, were adjourned until next sittings. The common jury case of Farquharson v. Macdonald was adjourned until Thursday. A jury of four wrs empanelled, Mr E. Pearce being chosen foreman. The special jury cases were fixed for hearing as follows : —Donald v. Dunk and another, 18th inst ; Chamberlain v. Smith and another (Wairarapa Star libel case), 21st inst; Baker v. Knight and another, 2fith inst; Hansen v. Cole, date to be fixed in Chambers. In cases to be heard by a Judge alone, dates were arranged as follows ; —Harata te (Kiore v, Wharetako, Friday (to-day ; Porter v. Southern Cross Petroleum Company, 25th inst; New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company v. Young, 27th inst,

Ministerial Movements. The Native Minister left Rotorua for Taupo on Monday, en route for Wellington. The Minister for Education is a passenger by the Takapuna, which left Onehunga for Wellington on Monday. Drainage Engineer.—The Town Clerk of the City of Melbourne has telegraphed to the Wellington City Council in reply to its request for information as to whether the Melbourne Corporation had an engineer to advice it on drainage questions : “No such engineer. Fitzgibbon, Town Clerk, Melbourne.”

Inspector of Buildings.—After a long deliberation in committee Monday nigbt the City Council decided to appoint Mr JR. M. Hamilton to the post of Inspector of Buildings, the salary of which is £2OO per annum. Mr Hamilton is an architect by profession, and has only resided in Wellington a short time. His father was Collector of Customs at Lyttelton for some years. Football. —We understand that at a Committee meeting of the Poneke Football Club, held on Monday, it was unanimously resolved to strike the name of a prominent player off the roll of membership of the Club, on account of certain facts which have come to the knovviedge of the Committee in reference to proposals he has been making to another Club. Municipal Patronage.—A deputation waited on the Mayor on Monday, and asked for his patronage and that of the City Council for the performance of “Rip Van Winkle ”at tbe Opera House. The Mayor mentioned the subject to the Couacil on Monday night, remarking that he had promised his own patronage One or two Councillors having facetiously asked whether there were any complimentary tickets, it was resolved, on the motion of Councillor Brown, who certified that “it was a very good show,” to accede to the request. Railway Traffic Returns. —The traffic returns on the Government railways for the four weeks ending 4th January, 1890, amounted to £101,065 8s Id. The amount for the corresponding period of last year was £93,301 10a 2d, showing an increase of £7763 17s lid. An increase is shown on .\ll the sectioas with the exception of Greymouth and Picton, the greatest increase being on the Hurunui-Bluff division. On our local section there is an improvement of £328 13s lOd.

The Dangers of the Street. —Now that tbe banana season is in full swing, we have again to call public attention to the danger which exists by thoughtless people dropping banana skins bn the pavement. On Monday afternoon an elderly lady fell with great force on the footpath in Manners-street through her foot slipping on a banana Bkin. Every pedestrian would do a great public service by kicking into the gutter any piece of orange or banana skin he sees on the footpath. It is only a momentary aetion, and yet may be the means of preventing a serious, if not fatal, accident. The Water Supply.—The City Surveyor submitted the following report to tbe City Council on Monday :—“The Town Clerk. — Should there be no previous rain, I propose gauging the Orongorongo stream early next week. The water in the Wainui basin is B£in down, and in the Karori reservoir 12ft, with little stream flowing in. Will you please inform Councillors that I purpose going to Wainui on Thursday next; if convenient for those who wish to go,” The report (which was intended for presentation at the meeting last evening week) yyas laid on the table.

Accident.—A gather, serious accident occurred on Sunday morning to a man named John Nelson, who is employed by the Harbour Board as a boat and signal man. At about 7.30 on tlie morning mentioned a fellow-boatman named Barker found Nelson lying at the foot of the staircase which leads to the tower speechless and unconscious. The unfortunate man was at opce conveyed to his residence, where he vyas examined by Dr Rawson, who found that Nelson, besides suffering from several injuries to his head, was also paralysed in both his right arm and right leg. Nothing is known as to how the accident happened, but it is supposed that as the injured man was descending the staircase he must have been seized by a fit, and fell to the bottom of tho stairs. Dr Cole, who has ohargo of tho jjationt, state" that Nelson has recovered the par* 3 ia \ nse of his arm, and also that he was in a fair way of recovering his Bpeech. It is believed by the doctor that tho man’s ultimate recovery will only be a matter of time.

The Queen. —Monday last was the fiftieth anniversary of the marriage of Her Majesty the Queen. Masterton News. —Our Masterton correspondent wrote on Friday The country district around Masterton appears to be all ablaze, judging by the smoke which envelopes the place which, with tho heat nearly 90 degrees in the shade, is aimost unbearable. I hear that near Eketahuna the bush is on fire on both sides of the road, making traffic impossible. To-day the energetic party of Alpine climbers intead to again start on the trip up to Mount Holdsworth, but unless the atmosphere c ears they will have no view. John Treanore, charged with obtaining money under false pretences, was committed for trial. Sale of Railway Reserves.—The sale of leases of railway reserves drew a fair attendance at the Exchange Hall on Friday afternoon. The leases are of 21 years, and the sectious offered form part of the railway reserve, and front on to Waterloo-quay. Allotments 16, 17 and 18, each having a frontage of 50ft to the quay and a depth of 66ft, were passed in at the upset rental of £29 per annum each. Allotment 23, having a frontage of 212 links to the quay and a frontage of 112.6 links to Bunny-street, was sold to Mr W. H. Levin at the upset rental of £l6O per annum. This allotment haß the special advantage of a railway siding, for the use of which tho successful bidder had to pay a lump sum of £SO, in addition to the upset rental. Fast Driving.—A correspondent draws our attention to the fast driving of some medical men of this city. He says :—“On Thursday one of our local medical practitioners was driving at what has become recognised as ‘ the doctors’ pace ’ along Cuba-street and across Manners-street on to Victoria-street. In doing so, a man who was crossing Victoria-street was knocked down by the buggy, the wheel coming iu contact with his body when on the ground. On rising he was evidently shaken and somewhat hurt, and received attention from the doctor. It is quite time that the police took steps to stop the habitual disregard by the medical profession of the city by-laws, requiring vehicles to be driven slowly round corners and over cross roads. There may occasionally ba urgent cas?s which would justify a disregard of the by-law ; but they must be exceptional.”

Flax. —The Government have received a communication from the Agent-General covering a quantity of correspondence and pamphlets reiating to fibre trade and to agricultural matters generally. From information which the Agent-General gives with respect to tbe cost of Yutacan sisal, it is estimated that a good field should have about sixty plants to the acre. Tbe leaves take from two to three years to ripen, and the sixty plants should give 18,001bs of leaves each year. One thousand leaves would weigh ab >ut 15001bs, and the yield of dry fibre is generally about 4 per cent, or 60Ib«. One farm, however, lately cleared 48,000 leaves, or about 72,0001bs daily, yielding 36,0001bs of fibre, or nearly 5 per cent. The cost of pro uction was 2§ cents per pound, and it was more than 10 cents marketed. After the Yutacan fibre is extracted from the leaves, is only requires to be placed on drying stands for two hours in the sun to make it ready for being put in bales. The Agent-General expresses an opinion that the sisal is coarse as compared with well-dressed New Zealand flax.

Society.--The annual meeting of the Wellington Harmonic Society was held at the Bowen-street Schoolroom Friday evening, Mr J. H. Cock occupying the chair. The Secretary read the report and balance sheet of the year’s transactions. The balance-sheet showed that after paying all expenses there was a sum of £2 16s 7d in hand. The year’s work has been marked by signal success, and the committee were glad to be able to congratulate the members. In doing so they take the opportunity of acknowledging the indebtedness of the Society to the untiring seal and energy of their Musical Director (Mr R. Barkov), O r a the motion of Mr E. Reeves, seconded by Mr D. T. Stuart, the report balancesheet were adopted. The enaction of officers resulted as follows >•—President, Mr W. H. Levin j Messrs J. H. Cock and R. O-. Ixamerton; Musical Director, Mr *. arker (re-elected); Committee, Messrs U- Rous Marten, C. Hickson, A Todd, A. Grey, J. E. Page, J. G. Holdsworth ; Secretary and Treasurer, Mr W. T. Glasgow ; Mr E. Mountford was appointed an assistant secretary ; Librarian, Mr A. Easton. Votes of thanks having been voted to the Secretary, Chairman, and Musical Director, the meeting terminated.

Personal. —Mr C. C. Graham, Official Assignee, returned to Wellington on Wednesday from his recent visit of inspection in the South.

Fire Brigade demonstration.—The Mayor and City Councillors decided Monday night to give their patronage to the Fire Brigade competitions to be held on the Basin Reserve on the 4th and sth of March. School of Design. The School of Design re-opens on Monday next. An examination for South Kensington awards will be held about June next, particulars of which may be obtained from Mr A. Dorset, Secretary to the Education Board.

Te Aro Reclamation. The actual reclamation in connection with Mr McGuire’s contract was finished on Tuesday afternoon. Other work has yet to be done, of course, but the last truck load of filling was put in yesterday, and the reclamation is now level with the facewall. Mr Tallis Trimnell.—Mr T. Tallis Trimnell, the newly-appointed organist of Sfc Peter’s Church, arrived in Wellington from Auckland on Tuesday afternoon by tho s.s. Hauroto, and was welcomed by several members of the vestry. Mr Trimnell will enter upon the general practice of his profession immediately. Wild Sheep.—Active means are being taken by the Stock Department for the destruction of wild sheep. Canterbury is now practically free from these dangerous animals, and no fewer than 783 have been killed in the Nelson forests during the last few weekß. It is worthy of note that all the sheep destroyed in Nelson have been found quite clean.

Licensing Committee.—At a meeting of the Licensing Committee on Tuesday there were present—Messrs J. E. Hayes, A. Young, F. H. Fraser, and C. E. W. Willeston. The only business was the election of a ohairman. Mr Fraser nominated Mr Willeston as having invariably been at the head of the poll. Mr Hayes seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously.

Exhibition Awards.—For general exhibits of twines Rowland Gould, of Lower Hutt, received first class award, with special mention for fishing lines. For cooking ranges, Luke and Sons, Wellington, first class award. For twelve-year-old whisky, J. Dewar and Co. (Storer, Meek, and Co., Wellington, agents), second class award. The S 3me firm also received an award for extra special quality.

of Buildings.—The City Council would appear to have made a wise choice in selecting Mr R. M. Hamilton, A.R.1.8.A., to fill the office of Inspector of Buildings. Mr Hamilton was educated afc Christ’s College, Christchurch, and went to England in 1876 for the purpose of studying as an architect and inspector of buildings. He studied under Mr Thomas Blashilk F.R.1.8.A., the superintending architect of the London County Council and the former Metropolitan Board of Works, and for some time assisted Mr Blashill in the inspectorship of buildings. Mr Hamilton also studied; for some time in Paris. Full of Amusements,—Next week tie city of Wellington will have no need to grumble over the paucity of amusements. At the Opera House, Thornton’s company produce “The Private Secretary,” Circus will be in full awing, and at the Theatre Royal the Hicks-Sawyer Minstrels will occupy the boards. Shortly afterward we shall receive a visit from Harmaton’s Circus, lately arrived from America, and which opened in Auckland yesterday. Then will oome the Silbon-Stirk Combination for a few nights previous to their departure Sor Rio ; and last, but not least, Mr C<, Santley, the great baritone,

The Athenaeum.—The monthly mooting of the General Committee of the Wellington Athenaeum was held on Tuesday. Psesent— The President (Mr C. Rous Marten), in the ohaiiv Messrs A. Macgregor, D. S. Gray (treasurer), G. Macmorran (secretary), T. W. Flanagan, A. A. Duncan, and W. Ferguson. The business was chiefly of a routine character. The treasurer stated that several publications belonging to the Athenaeum and bearing its stamp had been found in the room of a local auctioneer, on sale, some being actually sold. It was decided that immediate steps be taken to ascertain how this stolen property came to be offered for sale, and if possible to bring the thief or thieves to justice.

The Police and Hotels. —The Clerk of the Licensing Committee (Mr James Ames) reported to the Committee on Tuesday that the police were taking objection to, the fireescape at one of the city hotels, and had given notice that they would oppose the next application for a license unless alterations were made. Mr Hayes expressed gratification at the energy the police had shown in the efficiency of hotels generally during the last two years, and said they had frequently directed the attention of the Committee to necessary reforms. It appeared that the particular case referred to had already been under consideration, and the Committee did not find it necessary therefoie to. take any action. In answer to Mr Fraser, the Clerk said he did not think hotelkeepers were compelled to have places of convenience adjacent to the street for the use of the public.

Puhifuhi Specimens. A preliminaryreport has been made to the Government by the Geological Department on five bagsiof reef stone taken from Puhipuhi. The* first of these samples is reported to have varied greatly in composition, and, although, three separate assays were made, no silver was found. The others appeared to be of mach the same character, except that two of them were frequently barred with a dark mineral, the name of which has not been precisely ascertained. This dark mineral contains all the stone. The matrix itself is a cloudy rock, and has most probably been formed by hydro-thermal action. The assays made gave for the respective samples the following results (per ion) :—soz Odwt 20gr ; 107 oz ISdwt Ogr ; 102 oz 19dwt 7gr. The bullion in each case was found to be nearly all silver, and gold was uniformly presentj but in too small quantities to weigh,

Pkoberty Salts. —Messrs Harcourfc and Co. report having Bold, on Ttieday, a farm of 450 acreß near Blenheim to Mr Robert Donald for £3OOO. Welcome Rain. —A steady downpour of rain drenched the Wairarapa on Monday night. It did immense service, freshening up the grass and laying the dust. Bankruptcy. —Banjamin Nicholas Manley, printer, has been adjudged a bankrupt. A meeting of his creditors will be held in the Official Assignee's office on Tuesday next, at 11 a.m. an Old Identity.— Mr W. Carrington, a well-known resident of New Plymouth, died on Sunday. Some particulars of his life will be found on another page. His first knowledge of the Colony dated as far back as 1535. Bazaar. —It has been decided to hold a bazaar in connection with St Peter’s Churcn, half the profits to be devoted to the rcduclion of the church debt, and half to improvements in the church. The movement to proceed with the bazaar has been initiated by Mr Edward Dixon with the very handsome donation of £2O. The Comte de Paris.— Under the date of February 9, Zadkiel, in his almanac for the present year, says:—“The Comte de Paris will suffer from the opposition of Saturn to the place of the Sun at his birth.” Our recent cable message respecting the Comte shows that perhaps Zadkiel is not far out in his predictions. Mahakipawa. —Our own correspondent writes on February 10: —“ Work in the creek is being actively prosecuted. The dry weather is being taken advantage of by most of the creek claims. A strong company, embracing Nesbitt’s, Lyford’a and the Long Time claims is in process of formation, with Wellington capital at the head. The claims on the flab are being pushed forward energetically.” Rabbits in the South.— Mr Foster, Sheep Inspector of the Canterbury district, has renorted to the Minister of Lands that he recently inspected the country in tbe vicinily of the South Canterbury rabbit fence. Mr Foster states that the rabbits are not spreading in that locality, and of opinion that if the present supervision is maintained there is very little danger of their getting over into Canterbury. Passengers tor Wellington.— The fob lowing passengers had booked for Wellington at the despatch of the San Francisco jujyjl;—Per Orient ».s. Orizaba (sailed Dec, <?0) - —Misses Grieve, Eagle, Messrs T. K. Grieve, A. 0. Allen, H. R. M. White. Per P and O. s.s. Shannon (sailed Deo, 2o) : Messrs J. Daly, Granville, Milner. Per P. and O. s.s. Oceana (sailed Jan. 10) Miss Knight, Messrs P. and T. Chown. Per Orient s.s. Liguria (sailed Jan 3) : Misses McSwiney, O'Shea, Messrs J. H. Burgess, Broughton. J. W. Rickman’s Bankruptcy.— His Honor the Chief Justice delivered judgment an Chambers on Tuesday on an application by Mr Treadwell, for an order compelling the Official Assignee in Bankruptcy to execute a mortgage on behalf of the estate of J. W* Rickman to the Bank of New Zealand, in terms of an agreement made by the bankrupt in 1888. His Honor refused the order, but directed that accounts should be taken as between the defendant and the bank. Tenders.t— The following tenders have been received at the Public Works Office, Wellington, for the Kaponga formation, permanent way, and station buildings con'tract, Auckland-Rotorua Railway:—Ac. capted—D. Fallon and Co., Auckland, Auckland, £37,539. Declined—J. Saunders end Co., Wellington. £39,696 ; J. McLean and Sons, Auckland, £41,195 ; J. and A. Anderson, Christchurch, £47i532 ; A. McGuire, Auckland, £48,875 ; M. Danaher, Auckland, £50,500 ; Coates and Metcalfe, Hamilton, £56,128 j B, S. T. Price, Hokifcika, £50,000.

Accident.— Mr R. E. Bannister and Mrs Bannister, who, with one or two of their children, were driving along Manners'Gfcreet at about 8 pm on Tuesday night, mat with an aeculeßt through the kingbolt of the buggy being jolted out of place. The vehicle of course collapsed, and the occupants were thrown out on to the road. Mrs Bannister and one of her sons received a shaking and one or two bruises, but were not severely injured. They received every attention at Mr Brittain’s establishment, and subsequently proceeded home, little the worse for the adventure. Benevolent Society Trustees. —The iisual weekly meeting of the Benevolent Society Trustees wae held on Tuesday, there bein" preeent—Rev H. Van Staveren .(chairman?, Messrs C. E. Wiileston, 3. Collins, J. E. Smith. A number of cases were considered and relieved, whilst help was refused in others. Accounts to the amount -of 30s were passed for payment. The Secretary of the Christchurch Charitable Aid Board wrote asking for some information the disbursing of aid. It was agreed to gi*e the information asked for. The Trustees agreed to attend the annual tea given by the ladies of the Christian Association to the orphans of the Benevolent Institution, which is to he given at tne rooms. Manners-street, to Etrflow afternoon at 4 o’clock. The meeting then adjj-e.urned. The Kennel Clue.—A general meeting of tiie members of the Wellington Kemiei •Club was held at the Exchange Buildings on Tuesday, Mr T. K. Macdonald being in tbe chair. The following officers were elected for the current year : President—Mr T. K. Macdonald; Vice-Presidents - Messrs G S. Graham and R. Moatej Hon Treasurer—Mr Trmgs ; Hon Secretary—Mr D. Brand ; Committee —Messrs Baillie, Martin, Duncan, Matheson, Morris, Rogers, Clifford, Stevens, and Captain Coleman. The sub-committee appointed at last meeting to canvass for members reported having met with great success, which resulted in a great increase of members. The rules of the Chib, with a fsw slight alterations, were read and adopted, It was "decided to hold the next show on the ogth and 29fcb March. Sub-committes were apucinted to carry out details in connection ■with the show. It was decided to endeavour to arrange for the services of Mr J. C. Coupe, .of Melbourne, to act as judge.

Fine Fish. —Some very large salmon were taken by anglers out of the Scotch rivers the last season, fish ranging from 431 b to 551 b. We wonder when such “whoppers” will test tbe skill and endurance of New Zealand anglers, for playing a fish for half a day or so iB no joke.

City Council. —The usual fortnightly meeting of the City Council was to have been held last night week, but out of respect to the late Mr W. Seed, who recently represented Lambton Ward in the Council, the meeting adjourned until Monday night. The only business transacted was the passing of accounts amounting to £2527 13s lid. The meeting was attended by the Mayor, Councillors Brandon, Brown, Worth, Moeller,’.Harris, Wiileston. Chapman, Smith, Anderssn, Petherick, and Fraser. A Modest Town. —The good citizens of Woodville are remarkable for their modesty. They do not claim superiority over their neighbours, but they are fully persuaded that they reside in the future hub of the universe. They have one grand point, they are loyal to the backbone. The citizens of Auckland, through their worthy Mayor, requested Lord Onslow to send Her Majesty the Queen a graphic description of the many attractions of this glorious Colony, and his ( ordship promised to do so. The Woodvilli tea went one better. They have printed on thick white satin a copy of the Woodville Examiner containing the graphic account of the Jubilee celebrations in that sylvan town, and that copy has with due care been forwarded to Her Most Gracious Majesty, and in due course its receipt will bo duly acknowledged. The rest of the Colony will have to stand in the cool and chilly shade. Woodville, the woodland metropolis, will be the only city of the Colony recognised by Royalty, and every manly bosom will gently heave with emotion when the reply comes that “the Queen hanics the Wo odville people.”