GENERAL NEWS.

New Zealand Times, Volume XLIII, Issue 7222, 18 July 1884, Page 5

GENERAL NEWS.

An extraordinary scientist! optical Illusion has Loan exhibited during tha week at a saloon fitted up for the occasion, on premises adjoining Mr Gordon's druggist shop, in Willis street. The exhibition is thoroughly realistic, and the most unique thing of its kind which has ever been shown in the colonies. Most sight-seers will recollect the exhibition of Fatima, tho woman who, apparently, was without any body, and whose head and breast was seen resting above the table. This illusion at the time seemed to be, and really was, very good ; but the “ Herodian Wonder ’’ is vastly superior to tho Fatima puzzle, and is well worthy of a visit, more especially to youngsters of a scientific turn of mind, as it will set them thinking for some time to come as to how the show is worked. The head of a handsome girl is displayed to the audience behind an open frame. The living image speaks, but otherwise her features are as placid as a piece of marble. The head rests on three brass rods, and the exhibitor, in order to show that “ there is no deception,” makes several cuts with a sword under the girl’s chiu, and also behind her head. The illusion is a most perfect one, and well repays a visit. A somewhat amusing incident, not, perhaps, without its elements of danger, occurred in the Tinakori-road on Sunday morning. A horse running in a paddock opposite the Botanical Gardens happening to go too near a fence built on tha edge of a low bank, was precipitated, by the earth giving way, down between the bank and a shed, where he lay struggling for some time, and finally, recognising, no doubt, his position, spread himself out comfortably, and refused to make any attempt to extricate himself. Very soon a number of men were busily engaged in the endeavor to release the dowufallen animal, but for a long time they were unable to effect any change in the position of affairs, the horse lying calmly fixed, a prostrate monument of equine helplessness and indifference. Various means were suggested of rescuing him, such as applying a charge of dynamite, levering him on to the bank, &e.; and finally, after an hour or two’s labor, the animal was lifted bodily on to the bank, and shortly afterwards resumed his natural position. Beyond a little stiffness, he showed no sign of having received any injury. The theatre has seldom been more densely crowded than itwas last Friday night,on therecasion of thecomplimeutary concert tendered to Mr C. M. J. Edwards. The popularity of the gentleman, as an expression of regret for whose departure from Wellington the concert was given, had a great deal to do with the tremendous run on the tickets, in consequence of which every seat in the dress circle and the orchestra stalls was reserved, and in addition to this the publication of the names of the principal vocal and instrumental performers proved a powerful attraction. The performance was announced as under the patronage of his Excellency the Governor, and a party from Qovernment House occupied one of tho private boxes, The programme had been prepared under the directorship of Mr Robert Parker, who also acted as conductor. The result was that in the selection of the numbers genuine musical taste was shown, while at the same time Items were chosen for performance which were sure to be well received by a mixed house. The orchestra, whose efforts were, of course, the first to come under notice, consisted of some thirty performers, comprising all the bent instrumentalists in the city. Their several performances during the evening were such as to call forth a great deal of genuine applause. The overture to the first part, Cherubini’s “ Lodoiska,” was a masterpiece of instrumentation, the’ crescendo passages being powers fully rendered. The Turkish miroh by Beethoven, from the " Ruins of Athens,” which formed an interlude in the second part, was a curious piece of harmony, and was bq orientally descriptive that on closing one’s eyes one could almost imagine oneself among the mosqueand minarets of Constantinople, The extraordi-. nary performance yyith which the concert concluded was an entire novelty. It was an orchestral march by Fahrbach, in which the musioiaosdisappsaredone by one fromthestageuntil the Conductor was left with a forlorn hope at the direction of his baton, consisting of a basso,on and a drum or two. This march, the audience were jafoyOied by their programmes which, by the way, were very richly got up, was lately performed at Frankfort by a band of some twelve hundred perforn;erg, and was conducted under the same eccentric principle. The only instrumental solo was a concertstfcck for the violoncello, which was magnificently played by Herr Gumprich, with a full orchestral accompaniment. This was received with enthusiasm by the audience. The vocal items it is not our intention to criticise individually. Two or three numbers, however, call for special remark. The most perfect gem in the eveningi) coronet of music, was Bishop's “Lo, Hear the Gentle Lark,’’ which was sung by Mrs George Cottrell, with a, flute obbligato by Major Eccles. This was an exquisite piece of melody, an 1 ip so masterly a manner were the music of the voice and of the instrument blended in musical enchantment that it is difficult to say which performer deserved most praise. The burst of applause which rose throughout the house on the cessation of the music was a tribute to such a perfect performance as is not often heard. Then again Haydn’s canzonet, "My Mother bids me bind my hairp’ as suug by Mrs Gotterell, was perfectly delicious. With Mrs Bayou's voice, too, the musical public of Wellington are familiar, and last night it was hoard to great advantage. Mr Waters, Mr Plimmer, Mr Reaves, Mr E. J. Hill, Mr J, W. Hill, Mr Brooke Hukson, and Mr WMdop are all well known as among Wellington’s best vocalists, and their assistance gt last night’s concert was an importass contributory towards its 'Mr Edwards, whom we mention last as wishing to end our notice wjth a word of farewell, contributed much tu the enjoyment of the evening by his songs ; and in response tp, the enthusiastic encore with whiqh bis “Death of Nelson” was rocaived, repeated the- last verse, hi? Edwards’ departure from here will ba a matter of both social and musical vegihi, and his clear tenor notps will be much missed nt future concerts ar\d musical enlertainrftente,

Estimates of the probable cost of the erection of ihe Woollen Factory Company’s hniluiin.'s have been prepared accord in.; to in«tru«*. tioiisj by Mr Kamsden, the company's provisional manager, and have been by him submitted to the company. The cost of the buddings and engine power is estimated at £IO.OOO, and the cost of machinery at £9OOO. The case for nullity of marriage, O'Keene v. Oray, which may ba\e attracted some atteuti lias come to a conclusion without the determination of a judge or jury, the petitioner having given notice of a disrontinuunce of the suit. The suit has been withdrawn through, it is said,the petitioner’smabiU f y to prove the adcL'atiou ontaiued in the petition, Missis I’ujkley, Staffoid, and Fitzherbert, counsel for Mr Gray, being prepared with abundant testimony prove that they bad not the slightest foundation, A commitfce of the Education Board held a meeting on Wednesday, when the following app'diitmenta were made :— Training College, principal, C. C. Howard (reappointed) ; modern languages, A. F. Merlet (reappointed); scioace, Alex. Purdie, M, A, There being no application for the appointment of mistress, the matter was held over till the college is in g-’od working order, The following pupil teachers were appointed :—Te Aro, George Kohiuson; Buckle-street, Francis Booth, (transferred). Tory-street : —S. W. McKeegaa and C. A. Spence. The appointment of a drawing master was deferred until the next meeting of the Board, which will take place on next Wednesday week. Dr Johnson held a corooial inquiry on Saturday last at the hospital as to the cause of the death of a patient of the Mount View Lunatic Asylum who succumbed on Thursday last. The deccaied, whose name was Henry Davis, was aged £3 years, was admitted to the Asylum on 16th June, 1877. Fur years past deceased had been suffering from epileptic fits, and on the evening ©f the 26th instant, while being fed with sop, he was seized with a fit, and died within a few minutes. A po?t mortem examination was held by Dr Trine, who ascertained that the windpipe had been stopped by some pieces of bread. Death was caused through asphyxia, A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was recorded. The deceased leaves a wife and several children, who reside in Majoribankstreet.

A meeting of the Wellington branch of the New Zealand Seamen's Union was held at the Post Office Hotel Monday evening, there being a good attendance. Mr George Fisher, the newly-elected president, was introduced by Mr Gardner, and made a few remarks, in whicli he expressed his willingness to further the interests of the union. After the adoption sf the minutes of tne previous meeting, Mr Gardner stated that he had had an interview with Captain William?, but that tho latter refused to attend tire meeting, as be was under the false impression that ha was to Lo compelled to carry union men on his steamers. The election of office bearers was then undertaken, and resulted as follows : —Messrs Crawford and James Smith, vice-presidents ; Seymour, secretary ami collector. Messrs Fisher aud Seymour wore appointed as delegates to attend at the meeting of the Trade and Labour Council to be held this evening. The formal installation of tho president aud vice-presidents was carried out by Mr Gardner, and, after the rules had been read and adopted, it was resolved to hold the meetings every alternate Tuesday after the 14 th of this month. A vote of thanks to the chairman concluded the proceedings. In a leading article devoted to the discussion of questions relative to the attitude to be taken up by the present Ministry, in the event of their being found in a minority after the elections are over, the Otago Daily Times deprecates the idea of the Ministry resigning, aud advising the Governor to send for any one of the present aspirants to the leadership of tho Opposition. In asking for a dissolution, says our contemporary, Major Atkinson deservedly won credit for preferring public interest to that of party ; and then goes on to say that tho Premier would best forward the public interest by meeting the new House in office and leaving them to choose their new leader. With regard to the coalition that has been propounded as possible between Major Atkinson and Sir Julius Vogel, the Times says that coalitions should always be a last resource ; and that there is no good reason why they should coalesce,and that it would he better for the country, as well as for themselves, that they should remain apart.

Messrs Robertson aud Co are the successful tenderers for tho supply of forty iron girder spans for the various streams on tho Wellington and Manawatu railway. These spans are designed by Mr Higginsou, the engineer of the company, and may be characterised as being a vast improvement on the old unsightly and cumbersome wooden bridges which prevail on tha Government railway lines. They are lighter and durable, although the first cost is, as a matter of course, much heavier, The tenon girder is scarcely applicable to the present instance, iqasmqch as the girders are really composite, and combine the girder with the rails fer traffics. Mr Higginsou’s invention is well worthy tho attention of contractors aud others. Messrs Robertson and Co on Wednesday completed a steam-jaoketted copper boiler for Messrs Nawland and Pomfrey, which they claim is the largest of the kind hitherto manufactured in the colony. Its containing capacity is SOOgalls, and it is intended for the rendering of ghte at the firm's works at Ngahauranga. A most successful entertainment was given in tho Athensoum Hall last Friday night in aid of the funds of the Midland Cricket Club, the building being completely packed. The first part of ffie programme consisted of f, oonoerl,!in which Mr J. Maginpity rendered the “The Old Brigade ■' in good style and voice. The song M,Of thee,” by Mrs Parsons, and the duet, “J would that the love,” by Miss aud Mrs Parsons, were very sweetly sung, the latter receiving ap on-lore. Mr John IIi 1 1 may be congratulated op tho manner ip which he rendered the ballad “ A vision of lov'e.” Mr Gender's ” I fear uu foe,' 1 and the wellknown pips spng from (l Kip Van Wrinkle," by Mr 13. J. Hill, were capitally rendered. The first part of the entertainment was brought to a termination by the part-song ’* What beams so bright,” by Messrs E. J., J. W., O. J. Hill aud Gooder. Special mention should be made of tha capital manner in which the orchestra played the overtures undor tho oonduotorship of Mr Conolly, Mr Robertson presiding at the piano. The entertainment was concluded by the well-known farce “ Done on both Hides,”- which was capitally played, aud which elicited roars ol laughter. The funds of the club will, no doubt, be considerably augmented by last evening’* benefit.

Mr Jaimes Robertson Sunday eveningdeliyered the first of a series of five lectures at the Lyceum, which was fairly filled by an attentive audience, consisting of persons of both sexes. The chair was taken by Mr ICelly, the president of the Freethought Association, introduced the to the audience, Mr Robertson, though he makes no pretensions to oratory, possesses a clear delivery, and a concise manner of dealing with his subject, and in addition to this, he is evidently a welKread man who has thought out wh it he speaks without, in the slightest degree, being a pedant. The lecturer delivered an address which could scarcely be characterised aa being a lecture, and was really a sor| of epitome of the lectures which are fp Sallow, and which have been entitled The Problems of Life.” The succeed, ing lectures, which it is intended shall be delivered on the first Sunday evening of the next succeeding four mouths, will be devoted to the subjects of education, labor, Government and religion. Mr Robertson on Sunday briefly glan:ed at each of these important subject?. From the cradle to the grave, he &a,id/m.an was studying nature aud his fallow-men. Re pointed out that there existed much misconcep-. lion as to the genets of freethought whish it was the duty of Freethinkers to dispeL The problems of life had been altered from time to time. Amongst the oarly Greek? nothing wap so much worshipped as the fine arts, including painting, literature, and the Then, in the Roman Empire ths chief object of life wag conquests, TIVJU followed the establishment of the Christian religion, which, he believed, was of human, and not of Divine origin. Christians, however, were at length, begin*! ning to think for .themselves. Religion should be practical, and if they endeavored to understand their every-day life, they would do much towards dispersing the dark clouds of ignorance. The lecturer pointed out the advantages of understanding the sanitary laws as they affected the dwellings of the people, and he therefore considered they would be doing good if they inculcated the lessons of every-day life in their lyceum on Sundays. Reference was then mad* to the dignity of labor which was thought too little of by mechanics and. laborers, The subject of education was scd\cked upon as being a most important <ui v >, and reference was made to the fact nearly all the candidates for the Louse of Representatives who had preaected themselves, favored the abditvou of the sixth standard, which he strongly deprecated. lu conclusion he expressed the hopj that Freethlnkira should uot remain satisfied with attending public lectures, would meet together iu private for mutual encouragement aud Improvement. The speaker was frequently applauded, throughout by*, dii-cxmrse, and at the tho proceedings be received a bevty vote, at thanks*. Tbo proceedings were enlivened at intervals by eefeQtloua of ingtrgr^entai

7H:ric tr the examination meeting In th* eve of Richard Brirlman the Supreme Court In Bankruptcy M-mby. hi? Hun-r Mr Jmßec Richmond ma lo some mvst}' caustic remarks relative jo debtors iu the position of the bankrupt giving or endoisiug bills of accommodation. His Honor remarked that in every instance where such bills were put iu as debt* against a bankruptcy e-tate, they would h.* closely scrutinised by the Court when- \vr the debtor was a person who wo* not in budpf'S. The debt ia lln* instance referred to w«uld be allowed, as it was proved Unit Bcrriman ba-.i received the sum of £J 0 iu c«*rsd>Urat;ou of putting his name t> the body of the bill, the drawer of which was W. K. Wal'on.

The proceedings at the Leather Ooiuuan} *s meeting on Monday were somewhat enlivened by the presence of a lady, who appeared to take a keen interest in the proceedings. Despite the agitation in favor of frinale snifrage, the influence of the softer sex was evidently felt by the chairman, who was embarrassed several times by the incisive questions which confronted him. The queries/ too, were very much lo the p dnt, involving, as they did, point-blank inquiries as to the dishonor of paper, and why her husband had been denied cot tain piivileges which, presumably, had been extended to more favored individuals. However, the presence of lha lady did not in any way* exercise a softening influence on the counsels of the meeting.

An exciting incident occurred iu Words-worth-street last Friday evening, A bullock being driven from Ohariu Valley to Mr Barlow’s slaughter yard, suddenly broke loose and charged down Wordsworth-stroet, a horseman, who was ia charge of the animal, not being able to control it. It tested a m m over a fence, fortunately without inflicting any very serious injury, and attacked a boy, who barely managed to escape the same fate, or worse. At this juncture of affairs a man on horseback, armed with a carbine, tried to put a stop to the wild career of the infuriated animal, but three charges of shot, apparently, did not affect him iu tile least. A gallant volunteer, living in the neighborhood, then came to the rescue with his rifle, and landed a bullet under the ear of the bullock, which effectually quieted him, as he dropped down dead on the spot. Shortly after 1 o’clock Wednesday morning, two three-roomed cottages,situated at the upper end of Pirie-street, wore destroyed hy tire. The Manuers-etreot fire-bell rang out an alarm, and the brigade were soon on the spot, but not in time to prevent the cottages being completely gutted. They were the property of Mr W. Kershaw, of Kilbirnie, and were occupied, the one by Mr Hook and the other by Air Dimes. The lire appears to have originated in the kitchen of the former’s cottage, and was first discovered by Mrs Honk, who woke and found the house full of smoke. Both families were in bed at the tira-*, Hook loses the whole cf his furniture, including a piano, while Dimes was only able to save a few articles of furniture. The latter is uninsured. The former had his furniture insured for £7O and the piano for £25 in the National. Both houses were, we believe, insured. On Saturday afternoon, the directors of the Woollen Manufacturing Company, together with their secretary (Mr St. Barbe), and two or three other gentlemen, visited the site chosen for the mill at Petoue. Among those present were Mr T. K. Macdonald (chairman of the company), and Messrs S. 11. Dransfield, W, A. Filzherbert, J. H, Heaton, C. Tringbam, and D. Buiek. The spot chosen is on the bank of the Koro Koro stream, a beautifully pure and copious creek, running down from the ranges throe or four miles away through a rocky gorge. The company’s property is nearly 13 acres in extent, and is very picturesque iu aspect, looking directly across the harbor to 1 the entrance from the Holds. There is an old flour mill on the bank of the stream, and part of this is to be utilised as a teasing room for the wool. After drinking health and prosperity to the company and their chairman at Valentine’s Hotel, the visitors returned to town by train the same afternoon much pleased with their visit, Dowselt’s bakehouse, now becoming historical as a place of meeting of the “ froe and independent,” was the scene of several complications last night week, Mr J. A. Browne made his debut at that place last evening week before the Foßou electors. At the conclusion of Mr Browne’s address a vote of thanks to the candidate was duly proposed and seconded, and immediately afterwards a vote of confidence was also moved. Matters remained in this state for a few minutes, the vote of confidence wanting a seconder, notwithstanding the generous offer of the seconder of the original motion to perform the indispensable duty. Finally a seconder was obtained, and an animated discussion arose as to whether the amendment or- the vote of thanks should bo put first. This discussion resulted in favor of the amendment, which was put and carried. This was only one of several comic scenes which occurred.

The punishment of Alfred Kemp, who was ordered Tuesday by Mr Justice Richmond to pay a forfeit of £2O for having refused, when called upon to assist the police, should commend itself to tho attention of careless persons who imagine that they are at liberty to stand passively watching disturbers of the peace. it cannot be too emphatically inqprc&«bd upon people’-a minds that it is their bounden duty always to (\o all in their power to assist in the preservation of the public peace, and more especially not to atand idly by while the guardians of the peace are being roughly handled by disorderly persons. A policeman 1 * lot is nc,t a happy one when engaged in suppressing the violence of rowdy ruffians, mid one would think that auy honest man*a sense of fair play would iuduce him to assist anyone when beset by odds, even with* out the fear of a £§o hue. This wholesome howover# should have the effect of inducing even curs to do thesr duty. The proceedings at a meeting held on Monday evening to consider the advisability of winding up the affairs of the Koranui Coal Mining Company were somewhat stormy, The chair was occupied by Mr J, R. Qeuyge, chairman of the company, who commenced by moving a resolution that the company he wound up. In doing so he expressed regret on behalf of the directors At the unfortunate position in which they fonnd themselves, and explained that in consequence ox the required number of shares not having been taken up, the work could not be carried on at a profit. Moreover, having pointed out that the Hon. Q. J. Pharazyn was a creditor to the extent of some £7doo, said that unless the shareholders agreed to the proposition steps would inevitably be taken to have the company wound Up» Certain shareholders who were present complained that the directors had thrown cold water upon the enterprise, and that the present ac'ion was taken to squeeze the small shareholders out of the affair. These assertions were denied by the chairman, who said that the directors had done all they could to place the shares. The managing director, Captain Williams, said that tho mine had been worked at a loss of £2OO per month during the last two months, and that the coal put out bad coat double the sum anticipated. Mr Btons, a shareholder, moved for the appointment of a committee to investigate tho affairs of the company, and to report to a future meeting ; but this was negatived by a minority of shareholders, who, however, represented a larger number of shares than those who voted for the amendment. Daring the discussion, it was argued by shareholders that the concern might, if properly managed, have been made a pavlug one ; and the chairman admitted that some £15,000 or £2p,000 ; had been miaspent on plant. Remarks were made towards the close of the meeting, which were not entirely complimentary ta the directors. The resolution for the winding np the company was eventually carried, and Mr Cfcorge was appointed liquidator of the company. The first of a terles of lectures on surgical and medical subjects, which have been arranged to be given during the winter mouths, under the auspices of the Wellington Young Men’s Christian Association, was given Monday evening by Dr McKellar, in the large nrm occupied by the association in the Athemaum Buildings, Toe hall was packed to iu utmost capacity by au attentive and appreciative audience, a large percentage of whom was comprised of ladies. Mr Joseph Kitchen, the president, occupied the chair, and in a few pertinent remarks introduce I Dr McKellar, and that gentleman prefaced bis subject, stating that his remarks on the circulation of the blood would take more the form of a free and conversational character than that of a set lecture. Dr McKellar possesses a clear and concise stylo of delivery, and his manner of dealing with what is, of course, a technical was particularly happy. The lecturer explained that the circulation of i the blood was not thoroughly understood, even by medical men, till about2Qo years ago, when it was made plain by Harvey. By means of : diagiams and specimens of hearts taken from bullocks and aheep, he explained that the human heart was divided into two parts by a fleshy wall, each side of which consisted of two cavities, designated the auricular and ventrical cavities. Dr McKellar went on to show how the heart’s action forced tho blood through arberlu? and veins throughout the human body. The lecturer then proceeded to explain the properties and component parts of the blood. A k tho conclusion of the lecture a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Dr McKellar. The next discourse to be given under the association will bo by the Ven Archdeacon Stock, on the 10th instant, the subject beiu<|“Xh9 Theory of Evolution*'*

Ihe railway trJfio returns f*-r the fo'.r tv, eklv [.c;i,i,ls Mav i.nMi 1..-I !•> the Gl7. M", .hew th.- r. v tira . , ~ -1., V. :’. lington section tobc£l3Sl 7s 31, a-» sjain.-c i.3u’M lb 3d bl* the corn.-.-pondi;.i u - p, rind hist year. The total expenditure on ;dl the Hpcs for the period was £52.845 lid, as ugabbt £*0,770 10s lOd during the corresponding period hist year, while the levemu- for the period this year was £01,843 S* S >, and Ja-t year £BI,SH 19s 3d.

A man n:\inedJohuWeMvy met with hbdenlh suddenly Wednesday. He was si-en lying dead in a li 1.1 near the road at Oriental Bay, and information was at once given to the police. Several constable * proceed-d to the -pot. and found that deceased had evidently fallen down a steep bank, and had broken hi* neck. One of his arms wm also broken. The b.*dv was conveyed to the Morgue, where an in :m >t will be held to-day, at 10 oVlook. Deceas' d, it appears, left homo yes’erdvy morning early, to look after his cows. He is suppose i to h.ivu been subject to tit*.

The newly formed humped Union evidently intends to do gome practical work in the way of attending to members who have the misfortune to meet with accidents iu tin* pursuit of their calling. At the meeting iu Id last week, it was resolve.l, pending the establishment of a sick and accuh-nt fun 1, that the committee should appoint two men to ge round with a subscription list on the wharf for the benefit of .folm Setter, who is now Miffering from the effects of the accident whi-h happened to him the last week while Working iu the hold of the s.s, Bombay.

The Public Reserves Committee of the City Council consisting of Messrs S. Brown, A. \\ f . Brown and T. McKi mzie yesterday afternoon week visited the various city reserve, with the object of furui-hlng a report to tho Council. The tour was in ever}’ way satisfactory, more especially as regards the Bam Reserves. The committee vidted several sites at the Thorudon end of the citv, and it is anticipated that the committee will make recommendations which will prove acceptable both to the Council and the general public. The committee car< fully inspected the shrubberieß iu the Basin Reserve and in the Newtown Park, and also in the Town Belt and their report will probably be favorable to the custodians.

The anniversary of the Molcsworth-atnvt Wesleyan Sunday School wan celebrated Tr,.w. day evening by a soiree and meeting. The soiree, which was held in the schoolroom, was a great success, the room being twice filled. The following ladies assisted at tin* tea : -Mesduinea Beale, W, Lewis, 1). Lewis, and Wiggins, and Miss Lowutcr. The meeting held subsequently in the chin oh, passed ‘‘ff very successfully, addresses being given by the Revs W. G, Oliver and W. Baumber, and Mr Moxham, who acted as substitute tor the Rev Mr Smith. The annual report of the school was read by Mr Kirk, the secretary, and adopted. A number of hymns were rendered hy a choir of children, and Mrs Parsons and Mr Todd assisted with sobs. A duet hy two school children was beautifully sung, and was, Indeed, a feature of Ihe vocal performances of the evening. Altogether the celebration passed off most successfully.

Great consternation exists in Wellington cricket circles iu consequence of the action of the local footballers in taking possession, for their particular pastime, of the Basin Reserve. It appears that the followers of the Rugby rules, opining that the trustees of the Kts-rvu have no power to prohibit them from pla>ing on the ground, have quietly asserted their right, by taking possession and playing there. Tno clubs would, we think, have shown better form, to say the leant of it, had they not taken the use of the ground in fio unceremonious a way. And they should also remember that football ia not the only game under the sun ; and that, though they may possibly have a legal right to rum the only cricket ground in Wellington, yet it ia not showing a manly or athletic spirit to do ho. Spots where fierce and untamed scrimmages have taken place iu the winter, cannot he by any possible moans made good “ wickets ” for tho Bummer’n ciicket, and the result of the football that at present goes on on tho Reserve will ho to utterly rniu cricket next season. And u*>t only this, but the shruhherrhs surrounding the Reserve will inevitably suffer, and a place which has heretofore boon a pleasure and a credit to the town, will, if this football cannot be put a stop to, ho turned into a howling wilderness.—Finding that play was going on every afternoon on the Reserve, ihe trustee? instituted proceedings against Mr Lynch, one of the leading players, and the case came on for hearing bat week, resulting in tho defendant being acquitted. Leave to appeal was given,

The sacred oratorio, entitled “Christ mid his soldiers/' composed by John Farmer, and which hud been postponed on a former occasion on account of unpropUious weather, was .rendered Tuesday night at the Alhemeum Mall by the choir of St. John** Presbyterian Church, and was an entire success, being capitally sung by the ladluo and gentlemen who took part lu it. The music of tho oratorio is, though simple, exceedingly sympathetic and touching, and in some of the numbers, especially tho choruses, it may bo characterised as- almost grand. The oratorio ia divided into two pacts of -twelve numbers each, the fi«t part depicting the life of Christ, whilst tho second portion is devoted to the life of tho Christian. It la, perhaps, in a concert of this description, where each and nil strove thole utmost towards making the affair a success/ invidious ta make special mention of any particular singer, but it may not be altogether out of place to specially mention Miss Stager in her rendition of tho solo ü ßy Jeaua 1 Grave/* which certainly deserved the applause it received from the largo audience. Tho other soloists, were Mrs England, Misses Paul, Gray, and McGowan, and Messrs Wilson, Lindsay, England, and Steel, The choruses were aU of them full, steady, and well busUiuod. The oratorio ia well deserving of a repetition, and the choir, should they ho induced to i©produce it, maybe snro of receiving a good house and a welcome reception.

A meeting ol tho Wellington Trades and Labor Council was held at the Press Reading Rooms Tuesday night, Mr Hendrey took the chair, and there were present, besides Messrs Geo. Fisher and J. H. Shaw, delegates from the Lumpers and Seamen’s Unions, Carpenters 1 and Joiners’ and other Societies. The secretary, Mr George Capper, after alluding to the objects of the Council, read a report on the work done by the committee since their first meeting. According to this report, the objects of the Society are to better the condition of the industrial claves by permanently establishing the eight hours’ Hyhtem ; to render pecuniary aid iu time of need ; and to obviate as far as possible the necessity for strikes, by careful and patient investigation of tho suhecta in dispute ; and to use every legitimate means to obtain a proper representation of labor in the Legislature of the colony. Tho report farther mentioned that correspondence had been opened up with tho Auckland, Dunedin, ami Christchurch Associations, and congratulations received from those bodies. Mr Adam Gardner, thedelegate from the OtaL'o Trades and Labor Council, attended and made someintereatuig remark* relative to the benefits of trade councils, and threw out some useful Mats as to future operations of the Wellington Council. Mr Shaw also spoke at some length on scatters affecting industrial classes. Considerable discussion took place as to future movements, and after votes of thanks to Mr Gardner, the delegates, and the chairman had been unanimously passed, the meeting adjourned, to meet on Tuesday evening next, ut 7.30 p.m., at the Post Office Hotel.

The sitting of the Harbor Board yesterday week was a brief one-, very Httle business being transacted. There wore present—Messrs E. Pearce (chairman), Heaton, Dutble, Booth, Wheeler, Captain Williams, and the Mayor, Some discussion took place upon a recommendation of the Wharves and Quays Committee that Mr W. C. Smith should be appointed foreman of the works being carried on by Messrs McLean Brothers, five applications having been received. Finally, the gentleman mentioned was appointed. The same committee recommended in the case cf the deceased man Reid, who had been employed by the board, and having fallen ill had b*cn granted £1 per week for six months, that the amount should be continued to Mrs Reid for the remainder of the term, there being£l4 yet to be paid. The engineer’s report on tbo insurance of wharf laborers was read, and laid on the table. Captain Williams understood the men were willing to subscribe a stated amount to a fund, which was to be divided at the end of each year, or used in the meantime for benefit purposes. The Mayor thought any action in this direction should be voluntary, but that the men should be made to uuderthat, in view of the facilities offered by insurance companies, there was no excuse for a man who did not make gome provision. The engineer’s r-port on the dredging operations was read, and laid upon the table. The question of providing facilities for the landiug of cattle was brought up, but no action was taken. The Chairman reported, iu reference to the plans held by Mr Jones, that the engineer had arranged with the Public Works Department to get plans, so that it would not be necessary to apply to Mr Jones. Two tenders only were received for the flooring of the woolahed in Waterloo*quay, On the motion of Captain Williams, it was decided to call for fresh tenders, to be considered in a week from, that day The board then adjourned.

Tho night following tho shortest (lay xu the yoar was appropriately signalised by an unusually hsrd front. On Sunday morning ice from jl quarter to half an inch thick covered the f.urfoco of water Umt had been exposed to the front ; brooklets and streams in the neighbor* ing bush were edged with ice, and fantastic Icicles depended from foliage iu tho neighbor, hood of miniature waterfall* During the flay tho thermometer registered 40dcg in tho shad*. . A horse attached to a spring cart driven by Mrs Stratford, of Ngahauraoga, euddenly bolted on Lambtou-quay, at the corner of Johnston-slreet at a quarter past 12 Wednesday, and careered along the street, rushing from fddo to tide in an alarming manner. Ultimately it dashed the vehicle against an iron j.o4{, m-ar Martin’s Fountain, where the cart remained, and then broke away from the barn,.cfJt j V nd tore down Hunter-street, but was soon stopped hy a passer-by after it had rushed up against tho fence at the water side. Mrs .Stratford was thrown violently out of the carton to tho pavement, hub almost rniracuously escaped without injury. Tho recent rains have not be*m without palpable eth-ct in tho way of swollen streams and broken roads. A Wairarapa paper states that the floods in the Lower Valley last week washed away the approach on the Lower Tauhereuikau bridge, as well as a portion of the bridge itself. Tho damage is now being repaired. The road over the hills between Tinui and Wbakatuki has been rendered all but impassable in several places by huge slips, which have carried away fences and everything else in their progress. Mr Harford, who cinieH Her Maj*.sty’s mails from Castle Point, was not only bogged, but nearly buried in one of these soft spots the other day.

Returns presented to Parliament show the total value of articles imported into New Zealand during 1883 to be £7,974,038, us against £8,009,270 value of imports in tho preceding y,.ar, Tho total duty received in 1883 was £1,414,181 17h lOd, as against £1,515,917 4s 4d during 1882. Tho total value of exports from tho colony during 1883 was £7,090,999, it* against £<1,658.008 value of goods exported in 1882. The total number of vossHh entered inwards at the ports of the colony during 1883 wojb 805, with a tonnage of 494,926 tons. The number of vessels that cleared outwards at tho ports during tho year was 851, with a tonnage of 507,565 tons. A rather amusing episode took place in Gisborne on the polling day, the absolute truth of which we cannot, of course, vouch for. One individual, of a rather cantankerous disposition, who bad been bothered a g*»od dual hy tho filends of all tho three candidates to vote for their particular man, became thoroughly disgusted with their importunity, and nu going to the ballot-box determined to show his disapproval of tho whole lot by crossing out all their names. Thinking he had thus euchred the lot of them, he confidently informed a friend, who took quite a different view of the affair, and iu order to remedy what had been done by his friend, went and placed his voting piper in tho box without crossing any of the naim»H out, thus, according to his idea, neutralising what bad been done by tho other individual, whom ho deemed altogether wanting in charitableness and good nature.

The increase of larrikinisra in colonial towns is becoming a serious matter, and one which should engage the attention of parents more practically than it apparently does at present. Paltry acts of annoyance perpetrated by drivelling idiots, who appear to Imagine that imuio rowdyism constitutes the noblest attribute of on ago approaching manhood, are of too frequent occurrence. And every now and then houio of those mis-reaut-i cany their jukes (save the mark) to a pitch of cowardly cruelty. The latest case of this sort under our notice is drawn attention to by a correspondent, who informs us that certain hoys (whose names are known) proceeded to tho tout of an old man who Uvea at Shelly Bay, and wrecked it with the contents; further, taking away with them two p:-t cats. 'Phis is, our correspondent states, the third time the unfortunate mau, who is sixty years of age. Ims been treated iu tho same way. ScoundrtH of this type should not he permitted to go scot free ; when caught (it is sincerely to be hoped that iu this instance their capture is uot far off) they should be dealt with with the utmost rigor that the law will allow, and the more flogging tho law will allow the better for society at large.

The Wellington Guards have now completed their shooting season with the final competition for tlieir champion belt. Daring the season this o mpany has (iml eight team matches with local corps, being successful in four. Their annual prize competition was a very successful affair, the citizens responding most liberally, and a largo number of handsome prizes were offered. The belt for this year has been won by Vol. VV. H. Ballinger, who has madu the highest aggregate score throughout the season, which entitles him to hold the bolt till the next series of competitions are finished—it having to bo won five times before it can become the property of the winner lie also receiving, as a souvenir of the occasion, a Snyder rilla. The following ate the five highest aggregate scorers and prizetakers i’rivatu W. H. Ballinger, 874, champion belt and rifle ; Sergt. C. Hale, 860, cup, presented by Messrs Hislop and Co,; Private A. Asher, 856, cup, presented by the officers •of Wellington Guards ; Private A. Ballinger, Bff), inkstaud, presented by the non-commis-sioned officers of Wellington Guards ; Sergt, J[. Oakley, 781, prize in kind, presented by the members of Wellington Guards. The special prizes were won ns follows -.—Captain hoveday’s prize for the highest aggregate scores in the class firing was won by Sergt. Hale, the corps having eight other marksmen ; Lieut. Hislop’s handicap cup, by Private A. Ballinger, from scratch j Lieut. Tayton’s handicap prize, by Vol. Parr._ Tbo following are the winners of the donation of £lO given by the officers of the Guards, allocated hi £1 prizes, for second-class shots only : Sergt. Oakley, Corporals Kiohards and Townsend, Privates Asher, Hume, Kobinson, J. H. Smith, Parr, J. H. Wilton, and A. Wilton. The above prizes will be presented at the general inspection, on Wednesday night, at the Drillahed.

We are happy to pass along a hint for the good of the trade, relative to a matter that even now may bu exorcising tho minds of mauler printers of the colony, Printing machines, like all other things of tho kind, do not last fur ever, and suffer, more or less, from wear and tier. There is one in this office —a single-feeder double-royal Wharfdale—that was procured in tho early days of tho old Times Company, and received very shabby usage at the outset of its career, being a veritable machine of all work. There never was a time that great difficulty was not experienetd in “ making jobs ready ” on it, until, at last, it was derided to take the table out and relevel its surface, and also piano out tho '‘ribs” which had worn unevenly. This exceedingly delicate operation, the first of the kind ever, we believe, attempted in the colony was entrusted to Messrs Mills and Cable, of tho Lion Foundry. The massive table was placed in the large lathe of their establishment, and in the course of three days the surface was turned absolutely level. Planing oat the ribs was a simpler affair, and was also well done. Yesterday week tho machine was put together again, with the result that its working was entirely abend for the better, and the “ first impression ” came clean off tho cylinder without tho slightest packing up. Snell a thing had' never been done before with tho machine in question. As we stated further back wo give these facts for tho benefit of the trade. A Payne or Dawson’s wharfdale should have no end of work in it, if properly handled, and even if they do full into serious disorder their resuoitation may be assured by the assistance of a clever machinist and perfect appliances, such as those of the wellknown Lion Foundry,

An ordinary meeting of the Board of Education won held Wednesday, when there were present—Messrs J. K. Blair (chairnhan), G, Beetham, M. U.K., W. O. Buchanan. M.H.11, A. IC. Newman, W, Hutchison, H. Bunny, and Kev, J. Paterson. A fori night’s leave of absence was granted to Mr. A. Kichaids, Lower Unit School. Leave till September, without pay, was also granted to Mr A. ’Links, Petone. Mr Ward (Tinui) tendered his resignation, which was accepted. s’hc local committee’s reasons being considered too vague, the Inspector was instructed to ■proceed to Parkvale to make an investigation .nto the cause of removal oftho teacher. Application was made for repairs, at a cost of £/, to teacher’s residence at Tawa Flat. It was decided that, in view of the shortness of funds, the grant should be refused for the presunt Applications from the Matarawa, Petone, aud Eketahuna schools were treated in a similar manner. The Karori Committee recommended an expenditure of £5 in aid of road repairs. It was decided (o refuse the grant. The architect reported that £ICO wou”d bo the cost of a teacher’s residence at Karori. No action was taken. It was also reported that the cost of repairs to the teacher’s residence at Gladstone would bo £6O. It was resolved to allow the matter to stand over till the conveyance of the title to the board had been completed. A commnnication was received from the Education Department in reference to the date of teachers' examinations ana was referred to the inspector. The following tenders were received Belvedere School, W. A. Allen, £230 ; Vogeltown, fencing, Craig and Bates, £23 18s 6d. This yvaa all the business, and the board adjourned.

Saturday being Coronation Day, His Excellency the Governor held a levee at Government House at noon, at which hour a royal salute was fired hy the D Battery of the Kow Zealand Artillery. A painful accident happened to a lumper named John Setter on board tho a.a. Bombay early Wednesday morning. About 4.30 a. in. while working in the hold some case* of fish plates fell against his left leg, breaking it above the ankle. Tho unfortunate man was also otherwise bruised and knocked about. He was at once attended to by Dr Diver and taken to bis own home.

From returns just received by Dr Hector at the Meteorological Office, wo learn that tho rainfall for the mouth of June in the Wellington district has b coo as follows :—At the Observatory, Wellington, on Todays; maximum fall on 14th, l'osin. At Petone, total s'9Bin on 16 days; maximum, 2*osm on 11th. Upper Hutt, total fl-fJOIn on 15 days ; maximum, 2‘4oin on 14th. Summit, ll’2lin on 17 days ; mxxirnurn, 2’37in on 15th, Feuther iton, 5*731u on 14 days ; maximum, l'2sin on 14th. Masterton, 4’47in on 11 days ; maximum, X‘44m on 18th. A man named George 'Ralph met with a seiPus accident at Wainuiomata on Saturday afternoon. The horse, drawing a truck, ran away, and in applying the break Fox was thrown down, and the wheel of tho truck parsed over his left arm. The elbow joint was severely crushed and lacerated, his head received several deep wounds, and the left leg was kicked by the horse, ami much lacerated. Dr Wilford was sent for, and rendered such immediate assistance as was possible, and the mau was the next day removed to the hospital, where bo was attended to by Dr Key worth and Dr Grace, It is feared that tho damage to the elbow joint will necessitate amputation, and altogether the injuries are of a most serious character.

A painful accident occurred in the Adelaide* road ou Monday afternoon. It appears tha*, shortly after 2 o’clock, a lad named Frederick White followed a trolly, and, while hanging on behind, managed to g*t his leg in some way entangled between the nave of the wheel and the bodywork of tho vehicle. His shrieks attracted tho attention of the driver, who, on stopping tho trolly, found the unfortunate lad in a terrible plight. The driver immediately came to his relief, and tho extrication of the hoy occupied nearly five minutes, tho wheel having to he taken off completely. By the direction of Dr, Keyworth, the Tad was conveyed to tho Hospital, where ha died. An inquest was held, and a verdict of accidental death was returned

Although the trout ova per the Lochlover arrived in very bad condition, and was, in fact, despaired of, Mr George Denton has managed to hatch out about ISO healthy fish, which have been liberated. Of tbo salmon ova which came out in the steamship Aorangi, about 400 strong healthy fish have been hatched out, and have been liberated in the dilferent streams of the province. Although there are a large number of enthusiastic anglers in and around Wellington, comparatively but few of thorn are aware of the very complete hatching boxes and apparatus which Mr Denton has erected at his private residence, Tho plant is really well worthy of inspection, and the prourietor is at all times willing to exhibit the p’ant to any visitor who may fool inclined to pay him a visit. The usual quarterly meeting of the Wellington Lyceum Association was held Wednesday evening at the Lyceum. There was a large attendance, and Mr Kelly occupied tho chair. The principal business was the election of officers, which resulted as follows :—President, Mr Kelly ; vice-presidents, Messrs Innis and Robinson ; general committee, Messrs Gray, Francis, Anderson, Fake, and Colo. Mr Knigge was elected a co.trustee, in place of Mr C. Huslam. Mr Robinson drew attention to the desirability of members giving a block vote at the coming elections. He moved, “ That the Committee of Management of this society bo a committee for the purpose of ascertaining the views of candidates at the coming elections.” The motion was put to tiro meeting and carried unanimously. The appointment of a custodian was left to the Committee of Management. This was ail the business, and tho meeting terminated. At tho adjourned annual meeting of the Licensing Committee, held at tho City Council Chambers yesterday week, there were present Messrs G. Allen (chairman), C. T. Richardson, J. O’Meara, and W, F. Parsons. Sergeant Anderson, who was present on behalf of the police, reported, in reference to tho Karori Hotel, that the licensee, W. Swain, was effecting tho repairs ordered by tile committee ; but that the drainage was defective. The applicant promised to have these defects rectified, and the application for a renewal of license was adjourned till Saturday week. The application for the Wellington Hotel was adjourned till the 28th instant, it being stated by. Sergeant Anderson that Mr Blower, who had taken tho hotel, was having repairs and improvements carried out. The necessity for tho provision of adequate tiro escapes in the Provincial Hotel was drawn attention to by Sergeant Anderson, and the Bench decided to make a personal inspection of the premises, Tho meeting then adjourned. The ordinary monthly official inspection of the forces for the home district was held Wednesday at the Drillshed, Col. Pearce being in command. The parade state was as follows ; Wellington Naval Brigade, under Civpt, Johnston and Lieut. Hislop, 45 all ranks ; Fetoue Navals, under Gapt. Fitzberbert and Lieut. Buick, 44 ; Artillery, under Capt. McCredie and Lieut. Lyon, 50 ; City Rifles, under Capt. Crowe and Lieut. Walden, 57 ; Wellington Rifles, under Lieuts. Anoell and Steele, 40 ; Wellington Guards, urdor Capt. Loveday and Lieuts. Taytou and Ooogan, 38. The parade was a most satisfactory one, and nt its conclusion a hollow square was formed, when Col. Pearce presented Private Ballinger, of the Wellington Guards, with a belt and a rifle for the best scoring during the past six months. Ths Commanding Officer remarked that it afforded him great pleasure to make tho presentation. Cal. Pearce then, through his Commanding Officer, called Private H. Dixon, of the Wellington Naval Artillery, to the front, and presented him with the badge and a gold medal for his average shooting. Having intimated that Volunteer officers would be received at the lovds at Government House on Saturday next, the occasion being Coronation Day, and that a Volunteer ball would be held on Tuesday evening next, the Colonel dismissed the parade. A meeting of the newly-formed Lumpers and Stevedores Union was held at Fraser’s Rooms, Manners-street, last night week, there being about sixty members present. A letter from Dr. Newman was received in answer to his nomination ns president of the union, and expressing his wishes for the well-doing of the union. Mr Gardner Introduced Mr Gordon the late delegate of the Otago Trades and Labor Council, and the latter made a few remarks on the advantage of Trades’ Unions in general, and the power of any united body when properly conducted. At the suggestion of Mr Gardner a general committee, consisting of the following members was appointed : Messrs W. Roberts, C. Leary, J. Sutter, D. Davies, B. J. White, E. Delaney, D. Evans, M. Callaghan, R. Rice, W. Carton. The election of office-bearers resulted as follows : President, Dr. Newman, M.H.R. ; vice-presi-dent, Mr J. Wardell; secretary, Mr W. H. Tobin; treasurer, Mr Outram ; H. Lawrence, tyler ; W. Roberts and C. Leary, trustees ; J. Stormau and G. Davis, auditors. At the conclusion of the meeting, about twenty-five new members wero enrolled, making a total up to the present, of seventy. The union have decided to hold their meetings weekly until the eodof this month, after which period they will bo held fortnightly. After the first of July the entrance fee will be raised from 5s to 10s.

Attention baa been frequently called to the shameful destruction of small fish, more especially flounders, by professional fishermen, in or near the city. Although the Fisheries Act has for some years been in force, no effort on the part of the authorities has apparently been made in this port to carry out the provisions of the statute referred to. The “machinery," as it is so glibly designated by our legislators, for enforcing the Act, would appear to require considerable lubrication, or else it is altogether wanting, as illegal fishing is carried on to a most alarming extent, especially at the mouth of the Hult river and the various streams which empty themselves at Petone and thereabouts. The Wellington fishmongers complain bitterly of being compelled to buy from fishers “ treasures of the sea ” of all sizes, mote especially as regards flounders, and they state that they are altogether powerless in the matter. They say that unless they purchase the fish, both large and small, which are brought to town, they may as well shut up shop, as the catching business is entirely in the bauds of the netters. The Fisheries Act provides for fines which are recoverable in cases of couvictiou, and also states that an “inspector ’’ shall proceed against supposed defaulters. The Act, however, does not provide for the payment of inspectors. Again, the Act says that fishermen shall pay a yearly fee, but it neglects to state to whom the fee shall be paid or who shall collect it. At Blenheim and Port Underwood the fishermen, we are informed, pay the fee moat cheerfully through the Custom?, and if this be so, why cannot the Harbor Board or the Customs authorities enforce the provisions of the Act here.

Mr W. G. Mitchc-11, cabinetmaker of Cubastreet, has just completed a card-table which, as a specimen of the cabinetmaker’s art, will favorably compare with any work of a similar character either imported or manufactured in the colony. The table, which is composed entirely of colonial woods, is inlaid, and in the top there are now fewer than 2209 pieces of wood, all of which are beautifully let in. The woods chi-fly u>ed are honeysuckle, totara, pine, and cedar. Tho work does Mr Mitchell infinite credit, and alao reflects no small amount of honor on the colony through the artificer, who is a native of Wellington. At the last meeting of tho Harbor Board the question of providing increased facilities for tho landing of cattle was discussed, no action, however, being taken. We are informed that a few days ago a Wanganui firm sent by steamer to this city a number of cattle, which, ou being landed, were found to be so damaged a;s to be greatly depredated in value. So great, indeed, was the loss that the consignors liavo determined to take the overland route in preference to tho risk by boat. Of com se it does not follow that the damage was sustained in the actual process of landing, but it Is nevertheless indisputable that the accommodation provided in Wellington for the landing of cattle might well bo improved upon. A lad about 17 ycara of age, named James Richard Booker, who was employed by Mr Floyd, a contractor for bush-felling at Forirua, was engaged at 4 o’clock on Monday afternoon in felling a largo tree, which fell ou the lad’s leg and smashed it badly. He was ultimately brought into Wellington by Mr Floyd, and arrived at the hospital about 1 o’clock on Tuesday morning. Amputation was found necessary, and the operation was performed by Dr Grace about 12 hours afterwards ; but, probably, owing to the amount of hcemorrhage that had occurred, the sufferer succumbed to the injuries, and died about half-past 2 o'clock Wednesday. Ilia parents reside in Alford-streefc. An inquest will probably be held.

Tho “Skeleton Army,” an institution which was established in Wellington presumably as an outlet for the exuberance of tho idiocy of a section of the city youth, appears, we are glad to say, to have come to an end. Last Sunday week tho “Army ” obtained a leaso for one night of the premises formerly occupied by tho Freethought Association, and, hanging out the banner usually recognised as the emblem of the piratically disposed, held a sort of Pandemonium in the evening. Last Sunday night, however, tho building was quiet, and the skull and croaabones were not visible. The residents of the neighborhood, no doubt, are congratulating themselves upon the sudden death of the youthful pirates. ' Services iu commemoration of St. Peter’s Day were held on Sunday at St, Peter’s Church both morning and evening, that in the morning being conducted by the Veu Archdeacon Thorpe, and in the evening by the Ven Archdeacon Stock. The services were full choral, and the attendance ou each occasion was very large, At the evening service the choristers left the vestry, and entering the main aide proceeded to the choir stalls singing the hymn “ Onward Christian Soldiers.” The choir, during the morning service, rendered tho anthem “Ob Father, whose Almighty Power,” the anthem at evening service being the “ Hallelujah Chorus.” Tho Ven Archdeacon Stock preached iu the evening, taking for hi.? text St. Matthew 16th chapter, 18th verse—'“Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church.” A start was made on Tuesday with tho extensions to tho Queen’s Wharf. Messrs John McLean and Sous, of Auckland, are carrying out tho work, and tho contract, the amount of which is £9200, runs down on tho 15th December. The timber for the piles, totara, is expected to arrive from Feildiug early next week, when pile-driving will be commenced. The flooring will be of white pine. Tho main part of tho wharf will be widened 30 feet throughout on the south side, and the small T (berths 10 and 12) will be lengthened 100 feet and widened 10 feet on each side ; berth 6 will also bo widened 30 feet. For this purpose no Ins than 175 piles of an average length of 40 feet, and , coppered up to high water mark, will have to be driven, and the contractors expect to have ' two steam pile-drivers, besides a large number of men at work. At present the frames for tho pile-drivers are being constructed and the necessary parts of the wharf removed. The plaintiff, in an action heard at the Supreme Court last Friday, claimed that he had sustained damages, the greater part of which was the loss of two or three front teeth. Judge Richmond, in summing up, pointed out that this in itself was evidence of a violent fall, and, in support of the statement, cited (not as a legal authority) the case Don Quixote v. a Flock of Sheep, transferred for the nonce into the followers of an enchanter. In this encounter, according to Oervante?, Don Quixote lost several front teeth, and was afterwards congratulated by his squire upon escaping with such a trifling injury. The knight-erraub, however, reproved Sancho, telling him that a mouth without teeth was like unto a mill without a stone ; and adding I would have you to know, Sancho Panza, that front teeth are more valuable than diamonds.” The special jury at the Supreme Court, however, did not seem to coincide with this view, for they returned a verdict in favor of tho defendant.

At the Working Men's Club last Friday night a lecture was delivered by Mr O. Hendry on the “ Origin of Taxation and its Effect on the People.” Mr Miles was voted to the chair. The lecturer endeavored, from history, to show the progress of the rise of tho institutions of the various countries, the appropriation of the land -in fee simple by the nobles, the appearance shortly afterwards of pauperism ; the gradual rise of representative institutions, and that as the laws had for at least 1000 years been in one direction, viz., the conservation of property in the hands of the few, if that line of lawmaking was right, it should, in so long a trial, have shown its good qualities ; whereas, at the present time, it had produced, in England and Continental nations, a mass of pauperism, which the lecturer put at least 5,000,000, taking the actual paupers and those bordering on pauperism. The lecturer compared the people to a lot of geese asking the fox to represent them, and then being surprised that somehow the fox seemed to have it ail his own way. It was then shown that if the mass of the people wanted reform in the land tenure, they must return different men to Parliament, to make a beginning at such a reformation, and that from landowners the people could never expect the land laws to bo reformed. At the close of the lecture, a vote of thanks to the lecturer was proposed by Mr Dempsy, seconded by Mr W. Humphries, junr.,and carried unanimously. After a vote of thanks to the Chairman, the meeting closed. At the Lyceum Sunday evening, Mr Jardine, the gentleman who had been commissioned to inquire into the circumstances of Madame Lottie Wilmott's death at the Hutt, submitted a report of his inquiries. He visited the Hutt, he said, on Wednesday, and again on Thursday last, and he proceeded to answer the statements made in the article originally appearing in tho New Zealand Wesleyan, which bad given rise to so much discussion. The statement that persons residing in the Hutt were not aware at first of her presence was false. That she had been ejected from two hotels, was also false. He saw one of the hotelkeepers (the second being away), who informed him that he (the publican) did not wish the lady to leave bis house, but she persisted in keeping a dog in the house, and left in consequence. Visited the “ drunken cobbler,” and found that so tar from living in a “ hovel,” his bouse was clean, and neatly furnished. He also found that Madame bad bad daring her illness, everything she needed, such ns jellies, &c., which she gave to the dog ; that she was not visited by the Rev Gariick, but that it was the Presbyterian minister, Mr Rogers, who visited her, and supplied her with everything she needed ; that Mr Gariick refused her the loan of n table and two chairs, which were furnished by Mr Rogers ; that Mr Gariick was not present when Madame expired, and that although a doctor was sent for, she never spoke a word in his hearing, being, in fact, almost dead when he arrived, Mr Rogers being also present, Mr Jardine, in conclusion, said that the names of the persons from whom be collected his information were open to inspection by anyone desiring to verify his statements. The Exhibition of Fine Arts in St. George’s Hall, which has been open for the past week, closed Monday night. During the period it has been open to the public it has been visited by 2000 persons, and it must be considered to have been in every way a success. The works of art on exhibition have attracted a great deal of attention, and some twenty or thirty pictures found ready purchasers almost immediately on the opening of the exhibition. In other classes, also, the demand for the artistic exhibits was considerable, and on the general removal from the hall, which takes place to-day, a great many of the exhibits will know the exhibitors no more. It is due to the management, on the occasion of the closing of the exhibition, to say that they are to be congratulated on the excellent arrangements in connection with the affair, and to the working members of the association, to congratulate them on their successful efforts towards the encouragement of a love of the fine arts. The exhibition of next year will be looked forward to with increased interest in consequence of tho advance in art noticed since last year, and in anticipation of'a still higher standard to be reached