GENERAL NEWS.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVII, Issue 6439, 2 December 1881, Page 2

GENERAL NEWS.

Application bas been made on behalf E. H. Crease, of Wellington, to register a trade mark bearing the word “Salsaline,” as applying to an antiseptic and preservative of all articles of perishable food. IVe are informed by Mr Kirton that the reef has been struck in the ground of the Alpine Mining Association, Obarin, after driving a distance of 100 feet, the work being commenced by two men on the 1-t Oct /her last. Considering the hard nature of the driving, this appears very creditable woik for the two men employed. The Gas Company has recently received a “ double-flame” burner lamp from the patentee, Mr Sugg, London. The has lately -xhibited his burner in London in competition with a number of electric lights, and it is claimed by him that the access of his invention has not been diminished ?)v the multi'arions electric lights hr ight into competition with it. The Gas Co; -tie-- - drino to thoroughly test the efficiency of the ■sllO f flame, has erected a lamp on the Martin irinkino fountain, at the junction of Lambtonqnay with Feather-ton and Hunter-streets, ['he result j a j n the highest degree satisfactory. Three oas lamps with ordinary burners were ormeify maintained over the fountain, and .hese burnt, it is computed, 25ft per hour. The • Suog” lamp burns, it is estimated, the same mount of gas as the old lamps, but the tw» dames cast a splendid light over a very large radius; and this the three certainlj*didJiot.

We notice that Mr VV. E. Maclvor F.E.A.C., agricultural chemist ana author who recently reported on the sulphur deposits at White Island, has arrived at the Bluti, per Kotomabana, from Australia, It is bis intention to make a trip through the colony and tWvf<r. lectures on agriculture in a number ol places. The practical views which he is likely to present to audiences should be highly interesting and instructive.

By Order in Council published in a recent “Gazette,” the Castle Point, Wainuioru, Awhea, Masterton, Carterton, Featherston, and Otaraia P.abhit Districts have been abolished, and the entire Counties of V\ airarapa East and West declared by the name of the Wairarapa Rabbit District. Mr W. A. Jr. Sutton, Inspector of Sheep, Masterton, has been appointed Rabbit Inspector for snc -district. *

The City Volunteer Companies, under the command of Lient.-Colonel Pearce, ofhcer commanding the district, mustered for churcn parade on Sunday morning. Owing to ■ inclement state of the weather during forenoon, the attendance was not so large as anticipated, the Naval Brigade being e 7 Company which mustered in anything like “ Strong force.” The Bands of the Naval* and Guards were present, and played alternately during the march to and from St. Peters Church, where Divine Service was conducted by the Ven. Archdeacon Stock.

A number of claims to vote having been sent in after the writs for the general elections had been issued, a difference of opinion arose as to whether they would be received or not. The matter having been referred to Mr Stout, that gentleman has advised that if persons claim to be registered as electors under sections 7 and 8 of the Registration of Electors Act, 1879, the Registrar, after fifteen days, must register the claims if he thinks the claimant’s statement true, notwithstanding that the writs have been issued. This would necessitate the preparation of a second roll. It is understood that the Registrar will reject such claims.

The employees of large business establishments and corporate bodies display wisdom in providing against a rainy day. The members of many insurance and other similar bodies in the colonies have availed themselves of the advantages afforded of establishing provident funds, and the example has been followed by the employees of the City Corporation, who have inaugurated a sick and accident fund. Mr J. D. Baird, it is understood, has been elected President, with Mr T. Hewitt as VicePresident of the society. The men employed under the Corporation are, collectively, a somewhat large body, and the fund should, considering the class of healthy persons, grow to a considerable extent. Kindred associations have existed amongst the municipal employees of Sydney and Melbourne for some years past, and as these have met with success there is no reason to suppose that the local institute, profiting by experience, will be less successful.

Jack ashore is proverbially most amusing when he gets on horseback and undertakes to steer the craft in a crowded etreot. Two of the men from H.M.S. Emerald voluntarily undertook this duty recently, and resigned the helm long before they arrived at their destination. One of the jolly tars got aboard somewhere in the Te Are end of the town, and having reached McDowell’s corner was ignominiously unshipped. The horse had come down . Willia-street at full speed, and, on reaching the corner, shied, the rider falling heavily on his head. He was picked up and carried to a place of safety. A similar mishap befel another and equally bold sailor, who haviutr steered up Boulcott-street at a speed that would have done credit to any jockey, lost his judgment and his balance, and was picked np insensible opposite the Marist Brothers school. One of the Brothers attended him, and sent for medical aid, the sufferer being in the meantime taken to the nearest house. Wa understand that neither of the sufferers sustained very serious injuries

The Hon. the Colonial Secretary recently received a deputation from the City Council, consisting of his Worship the Mayor (Mr W. Hutchison), Councillors Thompson and Allen, and Mr O. O. Graham (Town Clerk), on the subject of the Hospital and charitable aid votes. The Mayor and the other members of the deputation stated that the Council, being now legally in a position to do so, were quite prepared to carry out their original agreement as to the Government subsidies to the Hospital and other charitable votes which were placed under the control of the Council. In reply, Mr Dick said that he saw no difficulty in at once falling in with the views of the City Council, and returning, to the original agreement as between the Government and the City Corporation. The only question, as it appeared to him, was the settlement of the time from which the Council should receive the Government subsidy. Eventually the Colonial Secretary agreed to allow the City Council to draw the subsidy for the Hospital and charitable aid from the Ist April last, on the scale fixed by the Act.

An adjourned meeting of the Wellington Teachers’ Association was held at the Thorndon School on the 19th ult. There was a good attendance. Final arrangements were made and agreed to for the incorporation of the “ Teachers’ Gazette ” with the New Zealand Mail. A very interesting discussion took place on the subject “Are home lessons useful or necessary ?” Most of the members took part in it, and much valuable information as to the working of the home lesson was elicited. The opinion of the members appeared to be that home lessons should be shoit and well within the comprehension of the pupils, so as not to involve too much toil, nor any additional mental strain ; that any system of home work is more than useless, unless it is subjected to the strictest scrutiny by the teacher, and hence that the lessons should be of such a character that they can be examined and illustrated with little loss of time. Further, that they should be both written and oral, with a view to strengthen both the memory and the eye. A motion, tabled at the previous meeting, for the admission of non-professional members to the Association, was, in the absence of the mover, allowed to stand over to the next general meeting.

We- have before us a copy of the nineteenth annual report of the Directors of the United Insurance Company, which was presented at the annual meeting of the shareholders at Sydney, on October 19. The total receipts for the year amounted to £66,643 9s. Of this sum discount, commission, re-insurances, &c., absorbed £28,699 18s 7d ; losses, £16,506 10s; and expenses of management, £3349 4s 9d, leaving a net balance for the year of £18,087 15s Bd, to which must be added the sum of £12,257, which stood to the credit of profit and loss at the close of the preceding year, raiaiug it to £30,345 14s. An interim dividend paid in April last having absorbed £2500, the available surplus is therefore £27,845 14s. This was appropriated in the following manner :—To reserve fund £IO,OOO, raising it to £40,000 ; dividend at 2s ner share for the half-year, £2500 ; undivided balance carried forward £15,345 14s. The sum of £55,000 has .been deposited with the company’s bankers at interest, and £20,211 5s has been invested in mortgages on real property.

A scene, which evoked a considerable amount of merriment, was enacted in the Resident Magistrate’s Court recently, the chief actors being a “ childlike and bland” Chinaman, who assumed the role of the_ prosecuting witness and two sergeants of police. On entering the box, the Magistrate desired to ascertain whether the almond-eyed child of the sun and moon preferred being sworn upon the Bible or by the blowing ont of a wax vesta, John smiled sweetly upon the Bench, and, uttering the words “ welly good,” grasped the tome of Holy Writ which was held on one side of the witness-box by Sergeant Anderson, and, at the same moment, with his left hand seized a 41 box tartan” of vestas which Sergeant Burtenshaw held temptingly before him. Mr Shaw remarked that John was evidently good on oaths, but ha must make his choice between the lighted taper and the book. The Chinaman elected to blow out the light, which he accordingly accomplished. Some slight difficulty then arose in consequence of the witness understanding the English language but imperfectly. Here the linguistic acquirements of Sergeant Burtenshaw stood both himself aud the Court in good stead, aod the examination of the Oriental witness proceeded, the Sergeant interpreting in pigeon English the questions of the Bench to the witness, and the answers of the latter tb tho former. Sergeant Anderson occasionally managed to interpret a question; bu* ivhenever he did, John assumed a stolid aud- ;-lcant stare, till he was mentally picked up again by Sergeant Burteushaw, who was evidently regarded by the Chinaman as something in the light of a “man and a brother." The episode threw the wtole of the Court—including the ■ prisoner into paroxysms of laughter, which was renewed again and again daring the hearing of the case. The accused (charged with stealing vegetables from the Chinaman’s garden) proved an aiiii, and was dischawed.

The Government hai decided upon beWmg a further sale of land on the Waimate Plal “®- The block which is to be submitted comprises over 6000 acres, the bulk of land being covered with bush. It is situated at the back ot what is known as the continuous reserve, the largest portion being near the land at the back of Manaia, which was recently disposed of by the Government. The sale takes place towards the end of next mouth. An unfortunate and fatal accident happened to a young man named Robert Bracling, at Tinui, on November 12th. He was engaged breaking in a young horse, and had just obtained his seat in the saddle, when the animal reared and fell backwards, Brading going underneath. He was immediately released from the position and conveyed home, where, pending the arrival of a medical man, every assistance was rendered to alleviate his sufferings. On Dr. Beard’s arrival from Masterton the case was pronounced hopeless. The poor fellow lingered in great pain till the following day, when he expired. It was not considered necessary to hold an inquest.

The children of the Congregational Sunday School, Courtenay-place, were treated their annual tea recently. About 150 children were present, and partook of an excellent spread, provided by the teachers and friends of the school. An entertainment followed, mainly consisting of recitations and singing by the scholars and friends, which seemed lo be mnch appreciated. The Chairman (the Rev. Mr West), in bis epening remarks mentioned that the school had an average attendance of 130 scholars : that the library now contained 300 volumes ; and that the children of the school had contributed, during the year, £8 15s toward the New Guinea Mission.

The Directors of the Wellington and Manawatu Railway Company decided, at their Board meeting bell on the 18th ult, that the line should terminate at the Long Burn station, on the Foxton and New Plymouth Railway, four miles from Palmerston. We understand, further, that the Directors have settled the basis of the contract between the Company and the Government on favorable terms, and have also arranged as to the area of selection for their endowment of land. Concerning the decision as to the terminus of the line, the Directors were guided by consideration of the relative cost of the two deviations and the commercial advantages, and were influenced in their ultimate decision by the fact that the Palmerston branch would largely develop and enhance in value the blocks of land which will be granted the company as endowments. It was considered that the Foxton deviation would be miles away from the best portion of the endowments, while the Palmerston route would run right. through the most valuable portion. Apart from the question of endowments, all important as it relatively is, there is the further gratifying assurance that decisive negotiations have been made with the Native owners of land which the line will traverse, and that, except for the conclusion of contract for the security of passage over certain lands near Woikanae, the right of passage from Wellington to the inland terminus of the lino has been secured. So mnch has keen said in explanation of details of the proposed work that we need not again, at the present moment, enlarge thereon. The public of Wellington, and of the entire district intended to be traversed by the line, will join in most hearty congratulations that preliminaries are so far advanced, and will accord very hearty thanks to the Committee and Directors for having so perseveringly pushed forward the work to its present stage of advancement.

An amended time table came into force on the Wellington and Masterton Kailway on and, as a matter of course, its operation gives rise to conflicting expressions of opinion. To Wellington residents who desire to travel through to Masterton, and, vice versa, to Masterton residents desiring to visit Wellington, the new time-table will be a decided boon. A train arrives at Masterton at 12.10 and leaves there again at 2.30 p.m., thus affording travellers an interval of two hours and twenty minutes wherein to transact business and return the same day—within twelve hours. Similarly, a train will arrive from Masterton at Wellington at 12.20 and return at 4.30 p.m., thus giving Masterton visitors four hours and twenty minutes 'in town —a sufficient interval for a good deal of business ; and Masterton visitors, leaving their homes at 7.30 a.m., will, 'after a good half-day of working hours in town, be able to reach their homes at 9.15 p,m. Those who desire to spend a night in Wellington need not leave Masterton until 2.30 p.m., arriving here at 7-20 (in ample time for the theatreor any other place of attraction), and starting at 7.80 the next morning, are home again at ten minutes past noon. Certainly, these arrangements will well suit through passengers from either end of the line. To travellers between Wellington and the Dower Hutt, who for the most part desire to arrive in town at 8 a.m. and leave about 5 p.m., the new arrangement will not be convenient. The first train in arrives at 7.45 a,m. and the second at 9.20, while the last two out trains leave the Wellington Station at 4.30 and 6.5 p.m. It does not appear that there would be any difficulty in making the morning train leave the Hutt a few minutes later, and by delaying the 4.30 out train until sor 5.15 p.m,, Hutt residents would be convenienced, and through passengers for Masterton would be allowed even a longer stay in town, by half an hour or more, than is now given them, and possibly in the run of 70 miles some portion of the time could be safely made up. As regards the Upper Hutt people, they have three trains daily to and from Wellington ; there is one special train to and from the Dower Hutt, and an extra through train on Saturday, sufficient, surely, for the ordinary traffic requirements of the district, though possibly the hours of arrival and departure might, by a little variation, be made more generally convenient. There is no reason to 'assume that the railway authorities have not carefully studied the general public convenience in the new arrangements made, or that they will be found not amenable to reason it it can be shown them that slight modifications of the new time-table are needed.

Now that the police have secured a conviction under the Gaming and Lotteries Act of last session—the first conviction obtained under the new Statute —the hope is they will not rest in their efforts to suppress gambling, and that they will show no favor. Having chosen to make a first example of some Chinamen, who may or may not have known that they were transgressing the law by playing at fantan, let the police now turn their attention to the European devotees of “ poker,” who have their own little hells and gambling dens, well known to the police. It is notorious that in this city every facility is given young men to gamble, and that our “ most potent, grave, and reverend seignors ” —or, at least, those who assume the role —have also their favorite haunts, where they daily with the fickle goddess, and waste their time and substance. If it Is necessary to hunt Chinamen from their dwellings because they choose to amuse themselves after the manner of their native country, it is doubly necessary to make descent upon places of high and low degree, where persons assemble in deliberate violation of the law to gratify their gambling propensities. The police, of course, know where these places are, and they know The persons in the habit of there assembling. They know also that the vice of ’gambling in this city exceeds even that of drunkenness, in its direct and indirect evil effects, and that if the new Act is enforced in its integrity, many residents and sojourners in this city who carry their heads loftily will be abashed and in disgrace. But this consideration should cause no halt on the path of duty. It might not be quite so easy to make a swoop upon the select circles where every night, and all night long, card-playing goes on, as it was to make raid on the unsuspecting Chinese market gardeners in Taranaki-street; but the police authorities will fall greatly in public esteem if they rest content with their present success. It will be a tacit avowal that they either cannot, or will not, strike at higher game, and that the Act for all practical purposes is inoperative. There is no need for this. The clauses are stringent, the penalties severe, and, as shown by the decision given yesterday in the Resident Magistrate’s Court, there is no disposition to leniency. Having said this much, it is only fair to revert to the other side of the question. There is no doubt that gambling among Chinese residents in this city is very rife, and we know that complaints from employers of Chinese labor, and from ratepayers residing m the immediate vicinity of the premises where the raid on Saturday night was made, induced the police to take action as soon as the Gaming and Lotteries Act came into force. We know also that legal opinion has been expressed that the Act is rotten ; that virtually it is inoperative against any form of gambling, except wherein it can be proved that a banker or stakeholder officiate s . But whether this is the case or not can only be proved by a test case in Court, and, iu the interest of public morality, no time ihonld be 10-t in deciding the value of a particular pi ce of legislation, which was the result much prolonged and acrimonious discussion.

The following are the particulars of the contracts for sleepers recently let to Messrs Guthrie and Larnach 10,000 delivered at Lyttelton, 20,000 delivered at Timaru, 10,000 delivered at Oamaru—Total, 40,000. All to be cut of totara and black pine, at 2s 10d each.

A fatal accident occurred at Karori a fortnight ago to a man named Henry K.Uminster, a farmer residing in that district. From the meagie particulars to hand, it appears the deceased was feL'ing some timber on land situated about three miles from his home, and while so engaged the tree that be was cutting suddenly swerved and fell upon the poor fellow, whose head was crushed to the ground. Assistance was promptly obtained, but it was of no avail, as death was apparently instantaneous. The deceased was a married man, and about 40 years of age. Among commercial transactions of the past few days there has been noticed a unusual activity in the demand for vehicles and horse flesh. It is currently reported that extensive purchases have been made of cabs and cabhorsee, and by citizens who, as a rule, do not embark in the uncertainties and risk of city vehicular traffic. Whether they intend starting a Cab Club in rivalry to the Bicycle Club recently organised, or whether it is anticipation of the use to which private vehicles may be placed during the coming elections, is, s,a yet, left open to surmise, but any inquisitive inquirer would find that city cabs and cab-horses just now command ready purchase. The Supplementary Electoral Rolls are in course of preparation, and those for the city electorates wi 1 probably make their appearance in print within the next eight days, following particulars will show the number of names to be added to the first rolls compiled for the city electorates, about three weeks ago ;—Wellington South, 517; Te Aro, 452 ; Thorndon, 289 ; making a total of 1258 names of persona claiming to vote since the first rolls were prepared. These added to the previous totals give the strength of the voting power in the three city electoratas .as follows Wellington South, 1732 ; Te Aro, 1544 ; Thorndon, 1394—making .a total of 4670 names. This number compared with the old roll of 1880-81 gives an increase of 1587 votes. A meeting of representatives of Friendly Societies was held at the Oddfellows* Hall, Lambton-quay, last week, when it was unanimously resolved to form themselves into a Conference to consider the question of establishing a Friendly Society's Dispensary and to discuss medical arrangements generally in connection with the variousbenefit Societies in the city. Ten lodges were represented,’ and after many matters of a preliminary nature to the real question at issue had been disposed of, it was decided to forward a circular to other Societies not represented at the meeting, explaining the objects of the Conference, with a view of securing their co-operation. Mr E. Bannister, of the Loyal Antipodean Lodge of Oddfellows, was elected Secretary to the Conference. Shortly after the arrival of the steamer Hinemoa at Wellington on Nov. 10, much excitement was created by a rumor that she had brought down the Maori prophet Te Whiti, and also Tohu and the alleged murderer Hiroki. How the rumor became promulgated is not known, for certainly there was not the slightest ground for the c&u&vdt It was unhesitatingly asserted that the captives had been met, on the arrival of the Hinemoa, by Sergeant Anderson and a posse of police, who had marched their prisoners to the lock-up, where they were to be held until brought before the Resident Magistrate's Court. As may be supposed, the wharf, the steamer, and the lock-up were the centres of attraction for some little time, until the hoax was exposed, when the disgusted wouldbe sight-seers returned, uttering anathemas upon the story-tellers.

The captain, the steward, and indeed _ the whole of the crew of a steamship which arrived from Wanganui recently, would appear to have been the victims of a mild and quite au unintentional hoax. The passage of his Honor Mr Justice Gillies had been taken in advance for Wellington. His Honor’s baggage arrived in due course and was placed on board, and, as a gentleman took charge of it, it was naturally presumed that he was his Honor, who was, with the absence of ostentation which is so peculiarly characteristic of the Queen's Judges, in New Zealand, at any rate, was desirous of travelling incognito. The passenger list contained his Honor’s name, and was in all good faith given to our shipping reporter, who, ot course, included it amongst the arrivals by the boat. It transpired yesterday that the Judge’s secretary arrived in the steamer by himself, and the officers of the vessel gave that gentleman the benefit of the respect which was intended for his Honor.

Some wag spread a report on Tuesday week last that his Excellency had declined absolutely to sign the proclamation dissolving the House of Representativesand that he had moreover informed Ministers that he ehould decline to do so until the existing Native difficulty on the West Coast had been disposed of. The story gained credit with several correspondents of country newspapers, who wired the item in hot haste, and, as a very material coneequenee, a number of these journals made very elaborate comments, more especially those who delight in picking holes in the Ministerial garments. Their chagrin must have been greater than their triumphs when they found that a “ Gazette Extraordinary” containing the expected proclamation, to which his Excellency had affixed his signature during the afternoon, had been issued at 5 o’clock. Probably the wish was in most of these cases father to th e thought.

An idea appears prevalent that it is illegal to exhibit bills, addresses, or notices relating to the elections. This is wrong, as a moment s consideration of the clause in the Corrupt Practices Act relating thereto will show. In the schedule of the Act defining legal expenses is included “expenses of printing, and the expenses of advertising in newspapers.” Clause 13 defines, among illegal expenditure, any payment “for exhibiting bills, addresses, or notice, or for the use of any house, building, erection, place, board, or thing for the purpose of any such exhibition j” but it does not prohibit the exhibition of such printed matter, provided gratuitous permission is given for the use of the places of exhibition. Similarly there is no prohibition of conveyance of electors .in vehicles, the use of bands, torches, flags, banners, cockades, ribbons, or other marks of distinction. The illegality consists only in payment, or contract for payment, for such services as a means of promoting the election of a candidate.

Edward Hardoaatle, Esq., R.M.i has been appointed Chairman of the Licensing Courts for the Districts of the Hutt, Thorndon, Lambton, Te Aro, Karori, Makara, and Porirua, vice E. Shaw, resigned. The following appointments of Resident Magistrates have been gazetted :—Edgar Hall Carew, Esq., R.M., to be a Resident Magistrate for the District of Dunedin, with jurisdiction to £IOO, from the 14th instant; John Nugent Wood, Esq., R.M., to be a Resident Magistrate for the Districts of Southland, Otago Goldfields, and Clutho, with jurisdiction to £IOO, from the 12th instant, vice E. H. Carew, Esq., transferred ; Edward Hardcastle, Esq., R.M., Resident Magistrate for the District of Wellington, with jurisdiction to £IOO, from the 21st instant, vice E. Shaw, Esq., resigned ? Robert Ward, Esq., R.M., to be Resident Magistrate for the District of Wanganui, with jurisdiction to £IOO, from the 21st instant, vice E. Hardcaatie, Esq., transferred ; and Richmond Beetham, Esq., R.M., to be Resident Magistrate for the District of Geraldine, with jurisdiction to £IOO, vice J. N. Wood, Esq, transferred. The appointment of K. Hardcastle, Esq., R.M., barrister, as District Judge for the District of Wellington, from the 21st instant, has also been gazetted.

That some provision will have to be made for the bestowment of the aged, the infirm, and the destitute, and made very shortly, too, is made daily apparent to those gentlemen who devote so much time to the management of that inestimable institution known as the Benelent Society. With the limited resources at present placed at the disposal ot the Committee, the best is made of both the Government subsidy and also of the subscriptions which flow in from the public. As at present constituted, the Society, despite the zeal, energy, and business tact of the Chairman (Mr J. G. Holdsworth), backed up by the members of Committee and Mr A. G. Johnson, are almost powerless to detect all imposition. At the meeting of the Committee of Management held Tuesday, the question of affording recipients of the charity relief in the shape of rent cropped up. From the discussion which took place, it appeared to be the general impression of the Committeemen that rent should not be granted to those who sought relief unless in exceptional casss, as it was considered almost impossible to ascertain whether those relieved in the direction indicated did not infrequently impose on the charity. One Committeeman remarked that, nntil a Home for the Destitute was provided, no proper check could possibly be had on those who sought relief.

(gA notification appears in the “ Gazette ’ of last week, summoning the Hon. Richard Oliver to the Legislative Council. Captain Gilbert Mair, New Zealand Militia, has been appointed Aide-de-Camp to Lieut.Col. Roberts, N.Z.0., commanding the colonial forces in the West Coast Districts ; and Lieut. 0. W, Hursthouse, of the New Zealand Militia, has been appointed Captain.

The planet Mercury touched the sun’s edge at the predicted time, Bth November and passed gradually over the sun’s disc. There were many spots on the sun, but the blackness of the nucleus of these spots was net nearly so intense as that of the planet. Prom the amount of moisture in the eky there was no sharpness of definition, and no appearances of the expected phenomena. The smallness of Mercury, compared with that of the sun, gave a new idea of the sun’s size, as Mercury is nearly 3000 miles in diameter.

A meeting, convened by circular, of business men and others interested in the promotion of local industries and the protection of the various trades, was held at the Rechabite Hall recently. About 25 persona attended, and Mr R. W. Watson was voted to the chair. Mr Robert Stout was, by special invitation, present, and at some length explained the woiking of similar societies in Dunedin and Christchurch. Some discussion afterwards took place, and a resolution was unanimously agreed to appointing a Committee to draw up proposals for the carrying out of the object, and to submit the same to a future meeting.

The following are the articles of the recently formed Tauranga Liberal Association:—“We, the undersigned, agree to become members of ‘ The Tauranga Liberal Association,’ formed for the purpose of advocating Liberal principles, especially the following ; Ist. Extinguishing the Native title to the lands in the Tauranga electorate, and throwing them open in sections suitable to all purchasers. 2nd. The establishment of local manufactories by grants of land and bonuses. 3rd. The expenditure of all public monies by public tender, and annual elections for County Councillors. And that, while members, we agree always to abide by the will, and act as the majority of members at anv meeting deems best.” The average politician will probably be found to smile at the idea of this being a “ Liberal ” programme. Mr T. B. H. Taylor, boat-builder, of Old Custom House-street, is at present constructing a 5-ton yacht to the order of Mr A. S. Collins, M.H.B. for Nelson suburbs, which, it is anticipated, will prove an exceedingly fast sailer. Her length over-all is 37ft, with a beam of 6ft, the extreme depth being 9ft 6in. She is built in the latest and most approved English model, and as a novel specimen _of yacht-building is well worthy an inspection by our yachtsmen. The keel is constructed of heart of kauri, the stem, sternposts, and frames being Australian blackwood, and the planking and decking being formed of heart of kanti. She will be full decked, and will have a skylight. Her cabin, considering her size, will be spacious, and will be filled up with thoroughly modern appointments and conveniences. The height of the cabin underneath, the skylight is sft 6in. Her builder anticipates that the yacht will be completed by the end of next month, and in time for the local and Lyttelton regattas. The attendance at the Wesleyan Sabbath School Bazaar, which was held recently, was very satisfactory. The business transacted must have proved highly gratifying to the Committee, and also to the lady stallholders. The stalls towards the close presented a most beggarly appearance, the majority of the articles having beendisposedof. By one of those unavoidable lapses, the of Mesdames Brisoe and Lowater, in connection with Mesdames Barber’s and Watty’s stalls, were omitted in our previous notices. The dissolving views, the Punch and Judy show and the various side-shows were well patronised in the evening, and the result must have proved satisfactory to these in charge. The bazaar has been an unqualified success, and the receipts, there can be but little doubt, will go far towards the cost of erection of a schoolhouse. The Artillery Band, under the direction of the bandmaster, Mr George Gray, performed a number of selections —notably some from the “ Pirates of Penzance”—which were vociferously applauded. The total takings for the three days amounted to the handsome sum of £SBO. The election of nine members to the Hutt County Council for the ensuing twelve months came off at the various polling-booths throughout the district on November 17th. Owing to the returns not being sent in to the Returning Officer till Nov. 17th, we were unable to give the result in our last issue. The following are the names of those elected Messrs B. Lancaster, P. Monaghan, R. Dick, J. Taylor, J. Chew, R. Smith, G. Perkins, T. Mason, and I). Speedy. The last two gentlemen were returned unopposed. It will be seen that with the exception of Mr Perkins, who is elected in place of Mr Morgan (left the district), the whole of the last year’s Gouncill-rs are re-elected. The number of votes polled for the respective candidates was, viz.:—Karori Riding (two vacancies) : Stephen Lancaster,-^3O ; Patrick Monaghan, 215 ; Charles Henry, 117). Wainuiomata Riding (one vacancy): Robert Dick, 30 ; George Wood, 28. Porirua Biding (two vacancies) ; James Taylor, 218 ; John Chew, 163 ; Henry Walton, 122 ; William France, 115 ; Frederick B. Darby, 46. Herokiwi Riding (one vacancy): Richard Smith 70 ; George L. D. Goldfinch, 32. Mungaroa Riding (one vacancy) : George Perkins, 78 ; Thomas Cotter, 49. Epuni Riding (two vacancies) : Thomas Mason and David Speedy, returned unopposed. The resumption of immigration on a cautious scale has apparently been decided upon by the Government; as wi l be seen from the following circular sent in reply to applications for passages under the nominated regulations, and published in the “ Oamaru Mail: —“ Immigration Office, Wellington, 28th October, 1881.— gi r) Referring to my letter of the 28th July, in reply to yours of the 21et of July, applying tor passages under the nominated regulations for the persons named in the margin,! have now the honor to inform you that the Government has decided upon instructing the Agent-General to provide passages for a small number of carefully selected immigrants within the limit of the vote of last session for immigration. The order in which the applications for passages will be considered will be as follows : —lst. Oases where wives and familes are separated from their husbands and fathers. 2nd. Oases where blood relations, such as brothers, sisters, cousins, aunts, &c., wish to have passages provided. 3rd Cases where persons who have succeeded in the colony wish to have passages provided for their acquaintances who are specially qualified, in their opinion, for colonial life. In transmitting the form to the immigration. officer, a short statement should accompany it, setting forth the present position of the nominator, and the probabilities of his being able to provide for bis friends on their arrival. In all cases it must be distinctly understood that passages will only be granted on the AgentGeneral in London being satisfied that the persons are physically and in all other respects qualified for colonial life. Of course the regulation requiring payment of £5 for each statute male adult will have to be complied with before the nomination is sent to the AgentGeneral.—l am, &0., H. J. H. Blioit, Undersecretary.” The old Oddfellows’ Hall, which a short time ago underwent very material alterations and was re-named the Academy of Music, is once more in the carpenters' bands, from which it will emerge to serve a more practical purpose. During the month a gang of men were occupied in erecting a hoarding, which takes up hilf the footpath in Grey-street and on the Quay, while the sound of the carpenters’ hammers inside betokened that radical changes were being effected. The main portion of the building having being leased by the new Central Club, is now undergoing the necessary alterations. Plans were prepared by MrThomas Turnbull, architect, and the contract for carrying them out was entrusted to Mr. Hanghton, who has been at work for some days. The stage and its side-rooms have already disappeared, and there are signs of their place being taken by divisions which will be more convenient for future purposes. Judging by the plans the Club will have very suitable premises. The large hall, measuring 42ft by 30ft, will not be materially changed with regard to size, and it will, of course, be fitted up as a billiard-room. Behind it and on either side will be a number of rooms, including sitting-rooms, card-room, diningroom, kitchen, &c. The lower floor of the front part of the building is also undergoing material alteration. The shops are being converted into a convenient suite of offices, which will be occupied by the Colonial Insurance Company. The upstairs rooms will remain almost intact, and will be used as offices. A number of them are already let to business men. There is every indication that this property, which is undoubtedly one of the most valuable in the city, will, in future, bring in a handsome re ital to the proprietors, who have never yet received the full benefit of its value.

A returned Volunteer informs the “ Manawatu Times” that the uniforms supplied to the men on the Plains are wonderfully made, and that the material is so bad that most of them are already in tatters.

Whilst working at Messrs Bartholomew’s sawmill at Feilding, a man named Ashworth had his jaw fractured and facial muscles ruptured through being struck by a piece of wood, which became detached while a log was being raised by means of a windlass. He was insensible for some time even after medical aid had arrived.

A donation has been made to the funds of the Masterton Hospital under somewhat unusual circumstances. A soiree was held at Mauriceville in aid of the funds of the local Lutheran Church, and the sum of £2 was netted. The church authorities, however, declined to accept the money, as it had been raised by dancing, and it was therefore handed over t» the Hospital. Commissioned officers of several Volunteer companies campaigning on the Plains, must have entertained curious ideas as to powers vested in them, if we may judge by a batch of letters received by various parties in this city from friends at the front. Bach envelope had been franked with the officer's signature, the writer, no doubt, laying the flattering unction to his soul that bis position in command of a company at the seat of war was sufficient to secure the transit of correspondence from the men under his charge on the dead-head system. Unfortunately for the recipients, the Postal Department could not see it, and in addition to charging the ordinary letter fee, imposed a fine of 2d on each letter. A case of scarlet fever has occurred at the College. The patient is a pupil, and son of Captain Colbeok, M.H.R. There does not appear to be any serious cause for apprehending that the malady will spread among the inmates. The disease has appeared in an unusually mild form. The patient’s room is on the upper floor of the building, where he is thoroughly isolated. Every precaution is taken, even tbe clothes being washed before they leave the room. As soon as the case became known, Mr Mackay, tbe Master, telegraphed to the parents of all the boarders, asking them to forward instructions as to what he should do with regard to their children. There appears to be no cause for alarm, and in all probability the disease will be confined to the one patient. Recently, a meeting of carpenters and joiners was held at the Excelsior Lodge-room, Courtenay-place, which was attended by about 125 members of the trades, the chair being occupied by Mr Charles Warn. The Chairman explained that the meeting had been convened for the purpose of ascertaining, so far as was possible, it there were, as had been asserted, a scarcity of tradesmen in the city. Considerable discussion ensued, during which it transpired that the meeting had been convened in consequence of a statement made by Mr Hanghton, the contractor for the alterations in the late Academy of Music, to the effect that he experienced a difficulty in obtaining carpenters, and which statement had appeared in print. Several speakers stated that they had, subsequent to the paragraph appearing, answered an advertisement for hands bearing the name of Mr Haughton, who had put them off by saying that he was not ready to commence operations. Eventually it was resolved that an advertisement should be inserted, both in the New Zealand Times and in the evening paper, denying that there was a scarcity of carpenters in the city of Wellington. It speaks volumes for the popularity both of Captain Maxwell and H.M.S. Emerald that during the stay of the ship not a single deserter was gazetted. Three men absented themselves without leave, or perhaps to speak more correctly, they overstayed their leave. One of the trio was picked up by Detective Benjamin in town, and conveyed aboard by that officer. Not so fortunate, however, was another police officer, who managed to secure a couple of truants from the man-of-war. With fond anticipations of prize-money for the capture of the men, the constable was escorting them to a boat for the purpose of taking them off tothe ship, when a boat’s crew of their comrades espied _ the prisoners and their custodian. The position was taken in in a moment. To see and to act were simultaneous. Some of the boat s crew went for the officer, whom they held tightly,, whilst the rest of the men hurried the late captives into the ship’s boat, and rowed them aboard. The result of this little escapade to the breakers of leave was highly satisfactory, inasmuch as had they beeu taken, aboard by the constable they would have beeu treated as deserters, whereas by going off in the ship’s boat—presumably, on their own accord—they would be dealt with simply for having overstayed their leave. The intimation given by Mr George McLean to the electors of Waikouaiti that, owing to ill-health, he found himself compelled to relinguish the idea of again representing them in Parliament, will create a feeling of regret extending far beyond the immediate boundaries of that electorate. Among the many defections from the ranks of veteran members of the House, none will be more conspicuously noted than that of the late member for Waikouaiti. He was what may he well termed one of the pillars of the House ; a close and watchful conserver of its constitutional rights and privileges; a vigorous antagonist to all that approached undignified procedure or the tactics of mere factions. The House can ill spare him, and the loss ol his services is all the more serious in the face of the circumstance that so many other well-tried members have withdrawn from active service. The new House is in danger of degenerating below that standard of capable respectability without which its deliberations are not likely to be of much effectual avail in advancing the work of legislation. There is consolation in knowing that if tbe late member for Waikouiati is called to the Upper House—as heappearsto anticipate—he'will still be able, in that more exalted position, to render the State good service. A meeting of the Governors of the New Zealand Institute and Botanic Gardens was held at the Colonial Museum on the 10th ult. Present—His Excellency the Governor (President), Messrs Travers, T. Mason, and J. McKerrow, Ven. Archdeacon Stock, Hon. W. B. D. Mantel!, and Dr. Hector (Director). The chief business in connection with tbe Institute was arranging for printing the ensuing volume of “Transactions.” Fifty original papers, illustrated by 40 plates, have already been received, from which selections will be made for publication ; but as the meetings of some of the Societies are not yet ended for the season, the above number will be increased, and the volume promises to be one of great interest. Dr. Newman’s motion, that meetings of the Institute should be held in the chief places in the colony, similar to the British Association, lapsed. The Botanic Garden business consisted in the passing of accounts for labor, &0., amounting to £ll4 18s 7d, from July to end of October, 1881, which included the preparation of ground for the experimental culture of sorghum for sugarmaking. It was decided that more attention should be paid to the growth of deciduous trees in the Gardens, both for ornamental purposes and for distribution, and that the cork tree should be specially planted as a tree that would probably be of economic importance. Mr Mason stated that be had cork trees grown at the Hutt, 10 years’ old now, ready for stripping.

At the conclusion of the business in the District Court on the 13th of November, Mr Bell (of Izard and Bell) took the opportunity of referring to Mr Shaw’s retirement from the Bench. In the course of his remarks, he expressed the regret felt by the members of tbe Bar in losing bis Honor’s services as the presiding Magistrate and District Judge, in both of which capacities he had given very general satisfaction. Mr Bell further ventured the opinion thatthere was only one actof his Honor’s which would fail to satisfy the public, and that was his retirement from the Bench. The speaker also alluded in Battering terms to the able and honorable manner in which Mr Shaw bad upheld the dignity of his position, and thus won the universal respect of all with whom he had been brought into official contact. In conclusion, Mr Bell, alluding to Mr Shaw leaving tbe Bench to commence a private practice, conveyed to him, on behalf of the Bar, a sincere and respectful farewell, and said he hoped that he would never have cause to regret tbe step he was taking. Mr Shaw, in reply, thanked Mr Bell for the cordial and flattering manner he had spoken of him, and acknowledged the excellent relations that had always existed between himself and the gentlemen of the profession, and begged to thank them for the assistance rendered to him daring his comparatively short occupancy of the Bench. He fully appreciated that assistance, and recognised that, unless the Bench and Bar were in accord, it would be impossible to efficiently conduct the business of the Courts. He also acknowledged the zeal and assiduous attention of Mr James and other officers of the Coart, the police force, and other officials in the performance of their respective duties, and concluded by wishing one 1 and all farewell and good-bye.

Francis Dart Fenton, Esq., of Auckland barrister-at-law, has beeu appointed Chief Judge of the Native Land Court. Tbe returns ol the elections for the County of Wairarapa West are now complete. The following is the result in the various ridings:— Alfredton (one member) —D. Macquarrie, 26 ; B. S. Hawkins, 6. Masterton (two members) — D. McGregor, 147 ; T. E. Chamberlain, S 3 ; J. Vile, 77 ; A. W. Renal], 72. Carterton (two members) —W, Booth, 139 ; B. Boys, 134 ; A. Armstrong, 124. No legal nomination was received for Greytown, while for Featherston Messrs C, Pharazyu and J, Donald were returned without opposition.

Daring the past three weeks the Government steamer Hinemoa has done the State some service. She has conveyed 681 Volunteer troops, besides a few members of the A.C. force, from various ports of the colony to Opunake, and has transported 788 Volunteers from Opunake to their several ports of disembarkation. Captain Fairchild (considering that he has conveyed several thousands of Imperial troops by sea during the laet eighteen years) speaks in the highest terms of the conduct of our citizen soldiers, whether hailing from South, East, North, or West, whilst on board his vessel. To use Captain Fairchild’s words, “ There was not a tipsy man belonging to the Volunteers came on board or left my vessel during the two or three weeks I have been engaged in the transport service.”

The first wo 1 sale of the season was held on the Nov. 23 at the New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company’s new warehouses, Custom House-quay. As it was the opening sale of the season, just a shadow of festivity was imparted to the occasion by pouring out a libation of generous wine, and then the auctioneer (Mr H. H. Lang) took the audience into his confidence, and, in a few modest sentences, drew a comparison between the building in which the sales were conducted last year and the one they were then in. He said that he was fully impressed with the necessity of providing increased accommodation, and that when he submitted the proposition to his Directors they readily accepted it, and the result was the building as they then saw it. He said he hoped soon to be in a position to emulate Dunedin and Christchurch in holding weekly sales. A narrow escape from a horrible death is related by our Greytown correspondent. Whilst Mrs Foie, the wife of a resident in that town, was employed near a large fire in the open air at about 5 o’clock on a recent evening, her clothes got alight. Uttering loud cries of alarm, she rushed towards the house, in which, fortunately for her, her husband happened to be, at the same time tearing off such parts of her clothes as gave wtsy to her exertions. Mr Pole helped’ her to get indoors, and having beaten out the flames with his hands, he pulled off the still smouldering dress, burning his hands severely in the operation, Mrs Pole was also severely burned about the legs, and is said to be Buffering from a severe shook to her nervous system. It was fortunate that assistance was at hand, for without it the result would probably have proved fatal to her, and there was also a great risk of the house being burned down.

The detachment of the Naval Brigade, numbering 117 officers and men, who have been on service at Farihaka, assembled at the barracks on the 17th ultimo to hand in their kits to tbe Government store, as ordered by Gel. Pearce, previous to receiving their pay. In any case where a man was found deficient the articles were charged and deducted from the man’s cheque. The first detachment that went away to the front, and, no doubt, gave an impetus to the success of massing so many men within such a short time under Captain Bennett, understood their pay was 8s per diem, and afterwards found they were to get only 6s. This was again reduced to 5s 2d, and upon receiving their pay they had to pay one penny for a receipt stamp. Several other reductions for extra rations were also made, but we are glad to state that upon the matter being brought before Mr Rolleston aud Col. Reader, the latter charges were crossed out. After considering the matter, the men are said to have followed the advice of Captain Bennett, who, we understand, told them not to complain too much, and to bear in mind that they went to the front to fight, and not on account of their pay. He felt quite certain that ' the Government appreciated them as a hardy lot of fellows that could be depended upon to turn out again if wanted for hard knocks.

About two hundred gentlemen, the majority of whom were hotelkeepers, confectioners, and others interested in the catering for the public, assembled at the auction mart of Messrs Laery aud Campbell on the 22nd ulttimo, the object of attraction being tbe sale of the various rights and privileges in connection with the Spring Meeting of the Wellington Racing Club, to be held on St. Andrew’s Day. From some cause or other the audience exhibited a decided disinclination to bid for any of the lots, and the reason for so doing, freely expressed by those present, whether delivered in pleasantry or otherwise, was that it would be sheer madness for the publicans to attempt to purchase booths when the provisions of the Gaming and Lotteries Act virtually prohibited licensed victuallers from transacting any business on tbe course. The various lots offered ou behalf of the Club were submitted, but were passed in almost as soon as they were pat up, the auctioneer being subjected to a considerable amount of chaff during the progress of the formal sale. Suffice it to say that the Committee bought in all the lots as they were offered. The auctioneer stated that he was open to receive private offers foi the rights in connection with the Club. These include the grand stand bar, luncheon room and kitchen four publicans’ booths, two refreshment stalls a fancy bazaar, the right for all games, except the totaliaator, the printing and sale of the “ correct card,” and last, but not least, the right of collecting money at the gales. One sportive publican offered 12s 6d for the entire lot.

The splendid gathering of the City Volunteer Companies at the monthly inspection parade, held Monday evening, was a sufficient guarantee of the popularity of the Volunteer movement in Wellington. The parade was under the command of Lieut.-Colouel Pearce, the officer commanding the district, who was attended by Staff Sergeant-Major Bell. After the usual inspection of arms and accoutrements, the battalion, headed by the Band of the Naval Brigade, marched out through the I’e Aro end of the city. The Guards and Artillery Bands were also in attendance. The latter, through not having yet received their uniform, broke off at the Drill-shed. The Naval and Guards Bands played alternately during the parade through the streets. The following represents the numerical strength of each Company ou parade :—D Battery N.Z. Regiment of Artillery, Lieut. McCredie (in command), SergeantMajor Hyde, Instructor, and 51 rank and file (including band) ; Engineers, Captain Simpson (in command), Lieuts, Gell and Tait, and 31 rank and file ; City Rifles, Captain Crowe (in command), Lieut, Walden, Sub-Lieut. Ballinger, and 47 rank and file ; Guards, Captain Hon. Rmdall Johnston (in command), SubLieut. Blundell, 48 rank and file (including band) ; Naval Brigade, Captain Chas. Johnston, Lieuts. Hislop, Bennett, Wallace, Waterhouse and Eitzherbert (commanding Petoue contingent), Paymaster and Secretary Cruicksbauk, Assistant-Paymaster Keyworth and 129 rank and file (including band) ; Naval Cadets, Lieut. Davy and 20 rank and file. Grand total, 347. Mr Hardcastle, E.M., has not created a favorable impression in his conduct of the Penguin inquiry. He has arrived in the city with a good reputation as a Magistrate—“ a wise and upright Judge”-—but that repute is qualified to the extent that those who know him best assert that his good qualities are at times overshadowed by a harsh and domineering disposition which would be ridiculous were it not at times exasperating. His conduct of the Penguin inquiry held recently is an evident case in point. He decided arbitrarily not to allow couosal opportunity to produce evidence which they, having regard for the interests of their clients, considered necessary. He said he had determined that the case should be concluded that day, and was prepared to sit for any number of hours that mit-ht be necessary, but he would not adjourn again for the production of further evidence. Counsel were thus compelled to do as best they could with the materials at instant command. The result of the inquiry, as affeciing those .most seriously implicated in th-> disaster, was more favorable than they, perhaps, expected, but that has nothing to do with the fact that our new Eesident Magistrate displays a tendency to brusque behavior and dictatorial ruling which, in plain words, will not suit. We speak thus plainly, because, with pleasurable recollections of the amicable relations between Bench and Bar ro long prevailing in this city, we would fain see a continuation, and we refer to the subject with most friendly disposition towards our new Magistrate. In all kindliness and good intent we would suggest to him that “Suaviter in modo, fortita • in re," trite and well worn as the maxim is, still conveys a world of suggestive meaning.

* In the face of the “bloodless victory” achieved on November 5, at Parihaka, it may not be altogether uninteresting to learn that Wednesday was the 13th anniversary of the Poverty Bay Massacre. These murders took place on the 10th November, 1868. Captain Malcolm, late of the Penguin, has, we understand, resigned his command, and also retired from the service of the Union S.S. Company. We believe he has definitely decided to “coil up his ropes and anchor on shore.” His many friends will wish him well in his retirement from active service, none more so than ourselves. He has had a full share of the vicissitudes of a seaman's life, but, on the whole, has been very fortunate, He was amongst the pioneers of the West Coast of the Middle Island, the scene of his greater successes, and his name will be associated with it “ for all time." Captain Malcolm still retains his connection with the Union Company as one of its largest shareholders.

The Collingwood correspondent of the “Nelson Evening Mail” has telegraphed as follows regarding the fissures at West Wanganui ;—Latest advices from West Wanganui state that there is a marked diminution of smoke issuing from the fissures, while the heat has greatly increased. The largest fissure is about 60ft in length with a visible depth of about iOft. All along the chasm, which at the top is about Sft wide, and gradually narrowing as it goes down, the heat is sufficient to kindle wood into aflame immediately on being thrown into it. There are several fresh smaller rents in the hill, all running parallel, and about 6ft apart from that from whi- h smoke with a strong heat is issuing. There is every indication of coal near, but, whether it is a coal seam or other combustible material spontaneously ignited, it is certain that there is a fierce fire burning underneath which is gradually undermining the hill and thereby causing the rent.

Another most satisfactory assurance is given of the confidence placed in New Zealand securities. The Wellington Harbor Board recently decided to float £30,000 worth of debentures in the Melbourne market, and instructions were forwarded per steamer Te Anau, which arrived at Melbourne on the afternoon of the 26th nit. Last week the Board received a cable message, intimating that the whole amount had been placed at £lol—that is, four per cent, premium—a better result than even the most sanguine anticipated. When it is taken into account that the transaction was concluded during what is termed the Melbourne carnival season—when even staid men of business think more of their racing books than of prosy business details—it will be conceded that the security offered has stood in exceptionally good favor, and that investors were shrewd enough to at once avail themselves of so safe an investment. If our publis bodies could do without borrowing, so much the better would it be for the body politic ; but as they cannot yet do this, there is exceeding satisfaction in knowing that the securities offered stand in high repute in the money market. There are at present on view at the shop of Messrs Barraud and Sons, Lambton-qnay, six large water-color paintings, executed by Mr C. IX Barraud for Mr Dalgetty. of London, which, undoubtedly, rank amongst the best that have been produced in the colony. One of them is a scene in the Manawatn Gorge, looking up the river from the entrance on the Palmerston side. The broken ranges have been sketched with marvellous precision, and the forest —which is in part aglow with reflection from the setting cub— appears wonderfully real. The second is a view from Kinloch, at the head of Lake WaVatipn, taken in the early morning, before the films of mist had cleared away. Pigeon Island is visible in the d stance, while the Humboldt ranges rise to the right. No. 3 consists of a “ Twilight View on Lake Manapouri.” Both these pictures are exceedingly attractive. Another gives a “View on the Weka Pass,” forming a most pecnliar contrast to those already noticed. The whole of the country which has been included in the sketch has a remarkably bare and barren appearance. Not a tree or even shrub is visible, but the monotony of the awkward-looking and roundshouldered hips is here and there broken by huge and fantastically-shaped blocks of grey limestone. Not many artists would select snoh a scene, yet this picture will be appreciated by all lovers of grand scenery. No. 5 takes us back to Lake Wakatipn, the view being from Qneeenstown, looking up the lake, Walter Peak standing iu the middle distance. It is an excellent specimen of New Zealand mountain scenery. Perhaps the best calculated to convey a favorable impression of the country is a view of the Amuri Plains, looking south after emerging from the Weka Pass. The miles and miles of beautiful level ground appear to be entirely surrounded by mountains, while the foreground presents a ravine and a view of the Pahau River. These pictures will remain on view daring the week, after which they will be sent Home.

The Melbourne “ Argus” speaks as follows of the proposed company to extend the capital and workings of the Westport Colliery Company and to acquire a fleet of collier steamers ; “ In our advertising columns to-day will be found the prospectus of an important undertaking—the Westport Coal Company, Bul'er Kiver, New Zealand, which, under the auspices of an influential Dunedin and Melbourne provisional directory, seeks to take advantage of the present state of the money market in this colony to increase its capital by an issue of shares here. The company is projected upon the basis of uniting the coalfields belonging to the Greymouth *aod Wallsend Colliery Company with those owned by the Westport Colliery Company under one proprietary, and of expending a considerable amount of additional capital (£100,800), partly in opening up new portions of the very extensive coalfields held by the Westport Company, but principally in building new steam-colliers specially adapted to the trade, as the past experience of that company has shown that, until additional facilities for transport by sea are provided, it will be quite unable to supply the rapidly increasing local demand for the coal, or to extend its trade beyond New Zealand. The Government have shown their sense of the importance of these coal-fields by expending about a quarter of a million of money in connecting them by railway with Westport, and in providing wharves and staithes to faci.'itate shipment. The present proprietors show their confidence by sinking their present capital, viz., £75,000, in shares of the new company, paid up to onehalf their subscribed value, and carrying a farther liability of £75,000, and the prospectus affords the fullest information both as to the orn-auisation of the proposed company and quality of the coal.”