GENERAL NEWS.

New Zealand Times, Volume XLIII, Issue 7270, 12 September 1884, Page 5

GENERAL NEWS.

During the month of August last there were 114 births registered in Wellington, 19 marriages, and 49 deaths. The Napier cabmau who took the smallpox patient to the hospital is one of the principal sufferers from the affair at present. After the doctors had declared thoir conviction that there was no doubt about the nature of the disease, the man made a claim on the Borough Council for the price of a new cab, a* he stated that no one would ride in his old one. The claim was not acceded to, but the local fire brigade subscribed £6 towards having the vehicle relioed and painted. On Monday afternoon a young man named Jacob Hausen, a Norwegian, who for some months past has been engaged in the central shop of the Wellington Meat Fieierring Com* pany in Willis-street, attempted to commit suicide by hanging himself by means of a com* forte* and his waist-strap to one of the steam* pipes in the factory. The would-be suicide, fortunately for himself, was seen to be struggling, and was cut down by his shopmate. The silly fellow, who states that he has been crossed in love, was tikea to the Lunatic Asylum for medical treatment.

Another old settler has passed away in the person of Mrs Susanna Parker, wife of Mr Thomas Parker, of the Lower Hutt, at tho advanced age of seventy-four. Mr and Mrs Parker, with their family, arrived in Wellington by the ship Gertrude in 1841, and having lived at the Hutt for many years, returned to England for the purpose of settling some family matters, and after a short stay, again returned to Wellington, and have lived ever since at the Hutt, esteemed and beloved by everyoue who knew her, Mrs Parker leaves a large family of grown-up children and grand* children to mourn her loss.

Tha Woolville Examiner says :—The other day Mr Groves brooght to our office a lizard about nine inches iu length which he had taken from a cow’s throat. It appears that nearly three weeks ago, Mr Groves noticed the cow in a peculiar condition, with her head hanging forward, and frothing at tha month. The animal gradually became weaker, and several remedies for supposed lung affection, &0., were applied. After existing in this state for some eighteen days the cow died, and prompted by ouronly, Mr Groves opened the throat, where he found the enormous lizard, The cow’s tongue wa( swollen and blotched, and the carcass shoved strong symptoms of poisoning. The occurrence is an extraordinary one. At Wesley Ohnroh on Sunday afternoon the children of the v irimn Sabbdh schools, numbering upwards of 1000. connected with the various die-eating denominations in the city, attended to hear an address from the Rev. Mr Biker, the Bible Society’s agent, who for a number of years past has been occupied in mission work in British India. Mr Baker stated daring his address, which was listened to with the utmost attention both eu the part of the many hundred adults who were present and also by the children, that the Bibio bad been translated into na fewer than twenty-six different dialects or idioms in India. The service was contributed to by a service of song by the Sabbath school pupils, A church parade of the garrison forces was held at the Drillshed on Sunday forenoon. The garrison, commanded by Lieut-Oolonel Pearce, and band assembled in full force, each of the various corps—the Guards, Artillery, Rifles, and Navals—being well represented. After mustering the men, Lieutenant-Colonel Pearce marchsd them off to St. Peter’s, the band, under the able directorship of Bandmaster Mclntosh, playing some very well executed selections. A large crowd followed them to the church, where they were met by the garrison chaplain, the Van Archdeacon Stock, who salute 1 them in military style. The usual military service was tfien gone through, tha church being filled to its utmost capacity. After the conclusion of the service tho men marched back to tha Drillshed, and were dismisted.

The proceedings, so far as the nomination of a member for the Thorudon Ward Tuesday were concerned, were not of a remarkable lively nature. At about five minutes to noon Mr Arthur Gftirastoue, the deputy returning officer, presented himself on the doorstep of a vacant tenement in Charlotte-street, and cast a glance at the sentry at the guardhouse and another at the weather, At this juncture a brace of reporters arrived on the scene, and the clock “ then beating twelve,” the deputy prepared to address the twaiq, who, however, raised the objection that Mr Qrimatone should respect the populace by taking off his hat. After a slight demur, the returning officer deposited his bat on the floor and at once proceeded to business, which consisted of his informing the reporters that Mr H. J. William*, having been duly proposed and seconded, and he being the only candidate put forward for municipal honors for the Thorqd°u Ward, was duly elected, The proceedings terminated without the uaqal thanks the returning At noon on Tuesdav the barometer showed a slight rise, and the N.W. gale, which, during the previous thirty-six hours had reached almost hurricane force, began to abate sensibly, although it by no means ceased tq folaw altogether, The gale commenced on Saturday night, and ww exceptionally heavy. Web lington itself seems to have escaped any noteworthy damage, the only accident worth mentioning being the breaking of the glass in front of the clock In the Government liuxldings. Matters, however, assume a totq’ly different aspect when wo turn to the country districts. From information which reached town Tuesday night by rail and telegraph it appears that in the Wairarapa very heavy rains have been falling during the past few days, causing the rivers to swell to an unprecedented extent, and flooding the country in all directions. Travelling by road is rendered completely impossible, and railway communication between Wellington and Masterton will be interrupted for some time, the line being blocked by a landslip at the place on the Rimutaka known as Siberia, the spot where a railway train was blown off the bank a few years ago. A span of the railway bridge across the Waingawa, three miles this side of Masterton, has been carried away by the floods, and this is by a long way the most serious obstruction, as it will be at least a month before communication can be restored. The state of the river also renders it impossible to reach Masterton from that spot by a coach or ’bus, as the road is flooded. The Foxfcon ! coach, which is.due hero about 7 p.m-« did dot ; arrive on Tuesday night, having been stuck somewhere in the vicinity of Otaki*

At a meeting of the goldfields member?, heU last Friday, Mr Fyke ‘occupying the chair, the following motion, which had been proposed by Mr Gulnne-s at a prtvlou* meeting, \v?b carried, “ That this meeting recommend* tl e Government to appoint a Minister whe r,hall have the sole charge of the mining

industry. His Excellency »Sir William Jetvoia paid a visit to the Queen’s Wharf yesterday week, to inspect the lauochingof one of thetorpedo boats from the ship Peter Stuart. He stayed there for about half an hour, attentively watching the work. The launch passed off tucces.-fuUy, and the torpedo boat wan moored some distance to the south of the wharf.

The members of the Wellington Gardeners* Mutual Improvement Society held a meeting U-t night week, when a very interesting paper on “ Animal Intelligence” was read by the Vr.*ddent. It was decided that the botany da’s under formation shall be commenced at an early date, n sufficient number of names having been subscribed to start the class. The chair was occupied by the president, Mr A. McKay, The Oamam Mail terras Sir George Grey a “political fratricide/’ and says he has killed the Liberal party for years. “It is plain now that Sir George’s love of principles is eubordiuated to his love for mischief, and that his hatred of the chief opponents of his pet theories is but skin-deep. Like a cruel child who revels in torturing a fly, he laughs at the defeat and discomfiture of his whilom political friends, and seeks to punish them tor their disloyalty to his person by seeking to supplant them by their enemies—the men whom ho has professed to hate.” The Thorndon Licensing Committee have decided to refuse all applications for extension of time from 11 p.m. At their quarterly meeting yesterday week, a number of application* in this direclioa were received, the Bt/ncli giving a positive refusal to each and every one. Mr Fisher appears to be the only member of the committee who supports the extension of time ; and be being absent through illness, accordingly addressed a letter to the committee to that effect. The letter, however, was not read out by the Chairman, although it was intended by the writer to be made public. In accordance with a proposal made in March last, the Wellington Football Club, at a meeting held last night week, decided to hold an athletic sports meeting on the 4th October next (weather permitting). A programme of twelve events was drawn up, embracing foot races, tugs-of-war, dec.,an essential feature being several football competitions, such as dropkicking; dribbling, and place-kicking. Most of the events will be confined to members of the club, but several, such as the tug-of-war, and 100 yards, and quarter mile races, will be open to all comers. Necessary committees have been appointed in connection with the gathering, and as it will bo the first of its kind since the old Athletic Club was in existence, no doubt it will be well patronised. Certainly the enterprise of the promoters merits a liberal support.

The poultry show yesterday week durng the earlier part of the day. and more especially in the evening, was largely attended, and indeed for some hours prior to the closing of the ex* hibitiou, locomotion was decidedly difficult in the Arcade. Tho show bos proved to bo an unqualified success, and the highest meed of praise is due not only to Mr T, J. Nicholls (the secretary), hut also to the judges and the committee. The judges would appear to have been highly successful iu their awards, and but little cavilling with their decisions has been heard. One or two slight inaccuracies, due to tho baste iu which the names of the prize-taker* were ticked off, occur in the list published last week. In class 7 (black Spanish cock and hen, W. G. King), should read as the first prizeman, with J. R. Skelly 2, and W, G. King 3. In class 31, J. G. Price obtained first honors, with \Y. G, King in the second place, Mr Price’s ben is far and away the best of its class in the show. The proceedings last night week were enlivened by the playing of selections of music by the Wellington Private Baud under the direction of Mr Walter Mitchell,

The funeral of Colonel William Leckie, late H.M. 39th Dorsetshire Regiment, " Primus in India/* and 63cd Manchester Regiment, Knight of the Legion of Honor, took place last Friday afternoon, with full military honors. The naval and military forces of Wellington and the Pefoue Naval Artillery, under the command of their respective colonels and officers, and accompanied by the Garrison Band playing the “ Dead March in Saul,” formed a most imposing procession proceeding the coffin, which was placed on a gun carriage and covered with the XToiou Jack, surmounted by the sword and helmet of the deceased officer. The close of the cortege was formed by the relatives and friends of the' late Colonel Leckie, and included Majors Cautley and Eccles In full uniform, from Government House, and Mr Martin, the town clerk, who represented the corporotion, the Mayor being prevented from attending in consequence of the state of his health, A number of carriages brought up the rear. By tic time the procession bad arrived at the Church of England cemetery, from the late residence of the deceased in Adelaide-road, a distance of about three miles, a large cou course had gathered, which completely filled the cemetery. In Bolton-street, the volunteers formed iu two lines, one on each side of the toad, and the coffia was borne on the shoulders of six stalwart artillerymen to the mortuary, where the Rev, Mr Coffey conducted the burial service. When the remains of the de* ceased had been committed to the grave, and the service concluded, three volleys were fired as a last token of respect to the remains of the deeply mourned colonel. A meeting of the Leather Company was held at the Chamber of Commerce on Mondiy night for the purpose of considering the following resolution “That the contract, dated the 19tb day of August, and made between tho company on the one part, and Robert Wilbetfoss on tho other, bo confirmed. That the directors bo authorised to do and perform all acts and deeds necessary to carry out and complete such contract, ** Mr A. McTavisb, in moving this resolution from the chair, observed that the directors were very much indebted to Mr Macdonald for his assistance iu drawing up the agreements (which were subsequently read by the Secretary. Ho expressed a firm conviction that the new company, when launched, would be a most successful one. It would, in all probability, be controlled by a board composed of gentlemen of ex* perience, and would also have the benefit of the efficient service* of Mr Tyer as manager. With the united efforts of such a board and manager, be thought the company would he one of which Wellington might well be proud, and be hoped that the citizens would liberally respond to the appeal shortly to be made to them by taking shares in the company, The resolution was seconded by Mr A. do B. Brandon, and carried without dissent. Mr T, K, Macdonald moved, ‘'That, in the opinion of this meeting, it is advisable that all shareholders should support the new company by taking up shares to at least the value they hold iu the pre ent company, and by bringing the importance of the new company as a local industry of great magnitude before their friends and the public generally.” He pointed out the strong necessity for extending support to such a local industry, adding that the future of Wellington must depend to a large extent upon this aud similar institutions. Mr Spreat, in seconding the motion, said that he bad recently visited Mr Tyer’s works, and was of opinion that they were eminently suited for the conduct of such an enterprise as that qf the company. The resolution was then put aud carried, A vote of thanks to the chair terminated the proceedings, A h*igh-ola\s musical entertainment, o! a kind which Wellington baa of late rarely had an opportunity of hearing, was given at the Athenmum Tuesday night by the Wellingt-.a Orchestra! Society, The audience was very numerous, notwithstanding the state of tha weather, Mr Robert ParkQr in his usual efficient manner a 9 conductor, and the orchestra waa a very lull one, comprising twenty-six of the best amateur musicians in the city. Miss M, Williams had charge of the piano, and performed her duties in a very satisfactory w\an* ner. The programme comprised aamq O.f the moat celebrated selections from the works of the great composers. It commenced with the t<> Mozart’s “ Don Giovanni,” which is too well known to need description. This was fo.lowed by the part song, “ Lovely Night ” (Chwatal), sung by Messrs J. W. and E. J. Hill, W. K. Waters, aud W. Widd-p, who, as may be imagined, rendered their parts in excellent form. Mrs George Cotterell then sang a soena entitled, “ Ah Perfido,” by Beethoven. The orchestra next performed Symphony No. 4, in B fiat major, one of Bee* tboveu’s most genial works, and a Very com* plicated and difficult piece for the performers, iu a way which showed that time and trouble bad not been spared to make everything run smoothly. Another part song,“ The soldier's song/’ by Kuchen, sung by the same quartette as the former oi\a, was well appreciated by the audience and applauded. The orchestra again came to the fore with “Yellow Ja-imiae,” by F. H. Cowen, the author of the “Scandinavian Smyphony " an ! the “Language of the Flowers,” from which the above orchestral piece was taken, and with a second overture, this time the one to *‘ Indra,” by Flotow, a composer chiefly known to amateurs by his popular operas “ Martha ” and u Stradella.” The programme also contained a recitation and air, “ The s< a rules all, from Henry Smart’s “Bride of Dnnkerroo,” per formed by Mr Widdop. This was the firth ; concert given by the society, and from the good attendance it would seem as if there were a demand in Wellington for more entertainments of this description, and it is to be hoped that the society will see its way to shortening the intervals that lapse their per- : foraahgee, '

Many people were startled on Saturday afternoon by wh it they at first look to be the ringing of the fiiebi 11, but what wrh iu reali-v a t-ignal from the large boll on the h.h, lonic, warning visitors to ashore if they did n-t wish iu be carried away to England, Our Haw - a correspondent wutes : —Haiti fell on 22 day a duiiug /-.ucust, the fail am..noting to 2‘oSin, as against 3*32 in August, ISS2, and 3*82 August, ISS3. The maximum fall last month *s4iu on the 21st. and the minimum full of *Ol in on the iSth imt. We understand that iu consequence «»f the pressure of his business engagements, Mr A. J, McTavisb, President of the Chamber of Commerce, has felt compelled to resign his office. At a meeting of the council of the chamber held last Friday, Mr McTavfck'a resignation was accepted, and the vice-president, Mr T. Kennedy Macdonald, was unanimously elected president in his stead. Iho freezing hulk Jubilee finished discharging frozen meat into the lonic about midnight last Friday, a total of SSOO carcases of mutton and GOO pieces of beef having been transferred. She was towed back to IVtoue next miming, to commence freezing 3500 carcases for the Aoraugi, to be shipped about the ISth or 20th instant. Sheep were already being killed last Friday for shipment by the latter vessel.

•Some amusement was caused at the meeting held by MrT. McKenzie last evening week by a question asked as to whether he was iu favor ofstink pots.” At first it was not ftppaicnt what the questioner was driving at, but it ultimately transpired that he referred to the ventilating shafts designed for the purpose of carrying off the noxious gases from the drains. Mr McKenzie pointed out that these and similar arrangements already existed for that object. The members of the newly-formed Tattersall’a Club held a meeting at the Post Office Hotel laet Friday evening to consider the rules drawn up by a committee appointed for the purpose, and to elect office bearers. The Christchurch TattereaU’s Club rules, with a few alterations made to suit the citcmnstauces of Wellington, were submitted and approved. The election of officers and committee was as follows :—Committee : Messrs B. Blower, R. R. Armstrong, Jtfferd, Cultt-n, Ja*. Ames, H. Lyon, and K, 11. Goldsmith ; Secretary, James Smith ; treasurer, C. T, Simpson. At the Te Aro Licensing Committee’s meeting last Friday, the attention of the Bench was drawn by Sergeant Anderson to a somewhat delicate point in connection with the Nag’s Head Hotel. He explained that a fight having taken place in the yard of the hotel, proceedings were instituted against Mrs Leveil, as licensee of the hotel, for allowing the disturbance to take place. It was proved, however, that the yard was leased to Messrs Laery auc* Campbell, consequently Mrs Levull was not liable. The Sergeant pointed out that ia that case the necessary outbuildings were cat off from the hotel ; and it was decided by the committee that Mrs Levell should be informed that by this arrangement her license is endangered. Mr J. Hamilton Moir, of Christchurch, is the author of a neatly-bound and exquisitely printed little volume which is designed “ for the use of members of Parliament, the legal profession, bankers, insurance and financial companies, Budding Societies, land and estate agents, merchants, actuaries, accountants, valuators, and the commercial world generally/’ The work contains tables of compound interest, annuities, &c., &c., also examples showing their application. The tables have evidently been compiled with great care, and will no doubt be highly appreciated by the mercantile community. The publishers are Messis Whitcombe and Tombs, of Christchurch, ou whom it n fleets, from a typographical point of view, great credit. We are glad to hear that the Harbor Board has had the telephone line between the outer signal station and the pilot station disconntcted from the wire which connects the former with the public exchange. Iu future questions may he asked ac night of the signalman on duty without disturbing Pilot Holmes from his well-earned rest, us is at present the case whenever a subscriber wishes to communicate with the signal station. The lino beween the two place will remain as a private one, and will be arranged so that it can bs connected with the main line by means of a moveable peg whenever desirable. This must be a great boon to the pilot, for he often complained of being disturbed at all hours of the night whenever people were anxious to find out the whereabouts of a steamer expected to arrive.

In the House bet Friday afternoon, Mr Sbrlmski, whose Incensing Bill had just mot with an ignominious fate, expressed a wish to make a short explanation. The matter having been dealt with, the Speaker, of course, ruled the member for Oaraaru out of order, whereupon Mr Siddun rose, and remarked that in order tj give the hou. gentleman an opportunity of explaining, he would move the adjournment of the House. This was duly seconded, and Mr Shrimaki rose to speak. Bat, alas 1 “The best laid schemes of men and mice aft gang agley.” • As the member for O *maru assumed a perpendicular position, the Speaker remarked, “ I must remind bon. members that on a motion for adjournment no reference must he made to any bills on the Order Paper.” Thus were Mr Shrimski’s explanalion and Mr Seddon’s generosity snutfod out at one fell blow. The Gospel Temperance Blue Ribbon Mis•’on was inaugurated last IMlay evening at the United Methodist Free Church. Mr F, 11. Fra er presided, calling on the audience to join in song, after which the Rev Mr Oliver read a portion of Scripture, Rev Mr Redstoue engaging in prayer. After the singing of another hymn, in which the congregation joined, the Chairman, on behalf of the temperance people of Wellington, welcomed Mr Glover amidst great applause. Some intimations having been made by the secretary, Mr Price, the Chairman called upon Mr Glover to address the meeting. This he did in a most hearty manner. At the close of his address he called upon those who had not yet put on the blue to do so. Forty-one responded to his invitation, twenty-five taking the pledge and sixteen the blue ribbon. The meeting was closed with the benediction. Those present willing to work remained, and gave in their names for the duty they were willing to perform in connection with the mission. The impression made by Mr Glover was good. Writing on Saturday, our Greytown correspondent says i—At the Town Hall last night a soiree took place in aid of the funds of the Greytown Rifle Volunteero, The hall was well filled, over 40 couple occupying the floor. The mu-ical arrangements, under the supervision of the private brass band, were excellent. The supper room contained a first-class spread, supplied by sundry Greytown ladies, Hancing was kept up with spirit until early this morning. The entertainment ia pronounced to have been both pleasing and satisfactory. The local fire brigade talk of having a similar fete before long.—The Salvation Army folks, failing in their negotiations for renting the Town

Hall, have, it ib reported, made arrangement* for another suitable building in the borough, where, beforelong, they will commence operations.—The weather* after the late storm, ia beautiful in the day time, although frosty at uight.-^rThetecentlectureß,andaubaeqiieutcon* t troversy in the Times’ columns respiiitualism is cauriog much interest in the matter throughout the district.—No certain news has yet reached here of the Kuamahunga overflow through the lower valley, but it ia supposed to have fcuen appalling. The quarterly meeting of the Te Aro Licensing Committee was hold at the Council Chambers last Friday, there being present — Messrs Kerby, Meecb, Hayes, and Barnett. The applications, which were few in number, were nearly all for extension of time from II to 12 o’clock. An application by John Filmmer to transfer the license of dimmer’s Hotel to J. McMadden was granted. J, O. Eugeu (Victoria HflbelX applied for an extension of time. Sergeant.’ Anderson reported that a nuisance had existed on the premises in the shape of a manure heap. Mr Eugeo, however, said the heap bad been cleared away, and explained further that a difficulty existed with the City Council in reference to drainage. The application, was refused, Mr Eugen remarking upon the Injustice done to him by tbq next house to his having a 12 o’clock license, James Thomas (Panama) and George William Chandler (Foresters’ Arms) made similar applications, which were also refused, lu reference to the Panama Hotel, Sergeant Anderson reported that the house was remarkably clean but was out of repair, mainly in consequence of age. Serge mt Anderson was requested to inform Mr McKay (White Swan Hotel) that the attention of the Bench bad been called to the fact that he had not complied with the order to effect repairs. Writing of the effigy-burning incident in Dunedin, the Dunstau Tim,© B *Mys We do not question the right of the Dunedin crowd to treat with contumely and insult its own representatives, but we protest, and that in the most emphatic manner, against its interference with the constituency of the Dunstan. By the action of this crowd, we will not insult the intelligence of Dunedin city by supposing it consisted of other than the street common loafer the would-make-believe unemployed, and the tag-rag and bobtail of the back«lum«—not only has a gentleman who commands the confidence of an electorate, that may with but a little stretch be styled Central Otago, been grossly outraged, but hU conatitueocy has been unwarrantably insulted. It may be said that wo are treating this matter too seriously, and that a contemptuous silence would have - been as effectual. If but only one construction could be put on silence, we would have treated this effervescence of the hydraheaded mob with contempt, but it might possibly have been, construed into consent —an i acknowledgement that the act was justified. ' Hence It fa that we characterise it as an un- ! warrantable interference with the privileges, of the Dunstan electors, by whom Mr P jge was chosen, and in whose bands alone devolves the power of taking him to teak,”

The flags of the various vessels in port •luting last Friday were half-mast high iu rympathy with the loss of the Lastiogham. The Kuamahuuga Kiver which drains the Wairarap.v Valley, and occasions, wlun iu fi'Jod, ranch inconvenience and loss to tho several township*, last week rose to a height much above its usual level, and caused much lo? 3to European and native residents. Tho riseof water was one foot lower than high-water mark of last inundation in that district. The Maori residents of pahs along the banka of the Raumabuuga state tho recent flood t>> bo the heaviest they have witnessed for over 30 yea»e.

The injudicious policy of allowing both Govtrnment steamers to b< come so impaired as to necessitate both being laid up at the same time, was fully exemplified ou Friday last, when it was found impossible to despatch eitlnr vessel to the scene of the wreck of the Lastiugham at Jackson’s Foint. The cause may have been unavoidable, but recent events have proved it to bo extremely detrimental to the public interest*. i;n Saturday afternoon a man named Thomas Jackson, boatswain of the ship Peter Stuart, had a narrow escape from drowning. U appears that Jackson fell from the wharf into the water about 3 o’clock, being then slightly under the influence of liquor. Shortly aftei wards his cries attracted the attention of the first mate ami the constable stationed ou the wharf, who found Jackson standing on a plank. A rope was let down to him, and he was soon after hauled on to tho wharf none tho worse for his misadventure.

3 here was a largo attendance at the Lyceum Sunday evening, when MrSawkin* delivered a h cturo entitled “ Tho Sham* of Christ! tnity.” Tho lecturer claimed that Christianity was a development of Judaism, and an such, answerable for all the doctrines of the system of which it was an outcome and in fact ft part. He pointed out ft number of laws maintained by tho Jews, and condemned them as infamous, contending that it was a shame to attribute such to a benevolent deity. The various doctrines of Christianity were criticised, and the lecturer concluded by a few remarks on spirits. The Lyceum band performed various selections.

A north-west gale of unusual violence commenced to blow here at about 1 a.m on Monday, and lasted all day, Tho duet was blown about the streets iu clouds, to the inconvenience of passengers, but as far as could be ascertained, no material damage has been done, beyond a few slates being blown from Messrs Joseph Nathan and Co**, bonded warehouse in Lawbtoo-quay, fortunately without hitting anybody. The glass fell rapidly during the day, hut recovered towards fl p m. when tho wind began to abate, and tho boisterous day was succeeded by a beautiful moonlit night. A splendid meteor was observed to fall at about II p.m. It took its start from tho zenith, and darted away towards eouth-waat. At tho quarterly meeting of the Kaiwarra Licencing Committee held on Monday, the applications for renewal* by John Ruuge (Waterloo Holed), and John Shanahan (Rainbow Hotel) Wlic considered, and subsequently granted conditionally. Iu the former caae. Sergeant Anderson reported that the bouse was than, and tho accommodation provided was Mifficieut, although it was scantly furnhhed. Tho Application was granted conditionally upon repairs being executed to the sati. faction of the Inspector of Police, Iu respect to the application of Mr Shanahan. Sergeant Anderson had reported that repairs were necessary. Subsequent to the report I cing written, however, the repairs had been effected, and the police reporting favorably, the application was granted. A pleasing ceremony took place at the Oxford Hotel cn Saturday evening in the shape of a presentation of an address, accompanied by a purse of sovereigns, to Mr Walter Best from the employes of tho Wellington Meat Preserving and Refrigerating Company (Limited), with whom Mr Best baa been connected for a considerable number of yearn. The presentation was made by Mr W, Hanning, who referred iu very flattering terms to the esteem in which tho recipient was held, and expressed regret that bo had severed bin connection with them. Mr Beat having replied in suitable terms, hia health was drunk with enthusiasm, as was also that ol “Mr* Beat and family,” “Tho Secretary,” &c. Some capital songs wore interspersed among the toast*, uud tho company separated, each wishing the guest of tho evening every sueccs* iu the future.

The New Zealand Herald is hopeful so far aa the representatives of the native members of the House of Representatives is concerned. Speaking of them, it writes as follows 11 Wo have the satisfaction of being able to report that they are all good specimens of the race, and are an improvement on some former representatives. The three districts of the North Island sent now men. The member for tho Northern district is Mr Hakuene—better known by the name of Ihaka to Tai. He is a Ngapuhi chief of rank, a prominent man in the Anglican Church of hid district, and, wo think, a wearer of the blue ribbon. To Ao, tho member for the Western district, is better known by tho name of To Puke. He ia of tho Ngatiraukawa tribe, and lives a little beyond Kihikihi, where he has a farm, which he cultivates according to tho European method. He is of the best class of Maoris, and ia anxious to see his people adopt the best habits of Europeans, and not merely their vices. Wi Pore, the member for the Eastern Maori district, is a well-known half-caste. Ho is undoubtedly active and intelligent.'* Au octavo periodical, assuming for its title “ The Commercial Gazette,” has been brought to our office. It has no imprint, and consequently the printer as well as the publisber of it are liable to prosecution, and, on conviction, may be either imprisoned or fined, at tho discretion of the Court before whom the case may be tried. In the interest, and for tho protection of traders, more especially merchants and wholesale dealers, it has for a long time been recognised in commercial circles that a trade circular should be issued dealing with bills of sale, See. The publication, however, referred to docs not confine its objects to tins legitimate channel of information, which, of course, is open through the law courts to every inquiry. It goes farther, and within its columns pillories, as bad marks, every poor washerwoman or laborer who, for the time being, may bo ia difficulties* This precious production, the name of whose proprietor wo withhold, gives a “ caution to subscribers which reads os follows “ Subscribers are requ'stod to forward the names they wish inserted for the protection of the trade, which

communication will be strictly private.” A deputation of goldfields’ members, consisting of Messrs Pyke, McKenzie, Guinness, Brown, SeddoH, B«van, Hursthouse, Cad man, Morris, and Fraser, interviewed the Premier on Saturday last, when the several recommendations agreed to at previous meetings were submitted for hia consideration. The abolition of the gold duty and the reduction in the price of miners’ rights to 10s and business licensee t> 4Qj, were the principal subjects discussed. Thy Premier stated that if the gold duty were abolished and the miners’ rights reduced, some substitute for the revenue now derived from those sources would have to be provided for the local bodies. He wished to know how the deputation proposed that that should be done, and suggested that mining property should be rated for local purposes. Several members of the deputation strongly objected to tbl-*, and urged that It was the duty of the Government to provide a scheme for raising revenue for local bodies on goldfields if required. Messrs Pyke* Guinness, McKenzie, Bevan, and others insisted that the gold duty was unjust and must he abolished at all risks. Mr tieddon suggested a compromise, namely, the reduction of the gold duty to la an ounce, the reduction of the price of miners’ rights and business licenses as stated above, and the rating of mining property, No other members of the deputation agreed with these aug- : goations. The Premier promised to bring under the notice of the Cabinet the several matters touched on by the deputation, and to give an answer on the next Tuesday. The Arcade was crowded to its utmost capacity Monday evening on the occasion of the address by Mr T. W. Glover, of the United Kingdom Alliance, Mr H* Hobbs, M.H.R., occupied the chair, several other members of the General Assembly also being present in response to the f-pecial invitation addressed to them. Mr Glover, whose hoarseness testifies to hia exertions ou behalf of the Gospel Temperance Mission, congratulated the colony of New Zealand on already having a system of local option, by which the licensing oommit* tecs, who were elected by the people, had absolute power over the licensed houses, but wished to aee legislation extended in that direction, so that the question of closing houses altogether might be referred to the people themselves, who would then be enabled to compel the committees toabide by their decision. He then gave a sketch of the drink traffic in England 400 years ago, when no restriction was placed on it, and traced it through the various of its existence to the period when licensing magistrates and benches bad control over it, and criticised the measures adopted—all without success—by the various governments to remedy the eviJa arising from it. Mr Glover urged that nothing short of total prohibition would put a stop to the corse of drink, although he admitted the benefits accruing from partial prohibition, such aa Sunday and early closing. To prove fait assertions, he very graphically described the great improvement in. the appearance and morale of certain dtstrUtein England, Ireland, and the United States. (Mainft), wbtre total prohibition wap carried out, and strongly impressed upon bis hearers ithe necessity of adopting similar measures in this country. At the close of Ms address,, the lecturer invited those present to don the. blue ribbon, and 420 responded.

Two of tho native members of the House of Representatives were forced to vote against their will on the amendment to the Address in Reply. Wi Pore, in the oimrnu of a speech delivered on this question, said that the Maori members would not vote if a division were taken lint night, hut, unfortunately, not being versed in I’nrliamentaiy practice, the two new members did not leave tbe chambers before the doors were locked, and consequently were compelled to vote. They solved tho difficulty by dividing their favors. Ono of those sad instances winch, alas, aro too frequent in the colonics, cropped up at tho weekly ineetiin; of the i'.euovolent Society on Tuesday, when tiro ease of a man with a wife and four children was mentioned as applying for temporary relief- Councillor McK.cnzi« stated that from personal inquiry, he believed tho applicant to he a most deserving object fur assistance. Jlu was only a recent arrival in tho c.rleny, and was related to a wealthy wool stapler in tho north of JCngland, ■where lie himself had recently lost £12,000 in the hiisimrs of wool merchant. As the man was said to ho a good wool soiter, it was determined to obtain employment for him in the country during tho coming shearing season. Tho Taupe correspondent of tho Hay of Plenty Times says ; —“ Home of tho shepherds in tlie employ of Mcrrs Morrin and Go., who am living at tlie foot of Tongariro Mountain, inform me that one night last week they heard loud and ominous subterranean thunderings, and tin so were kept up from about 11 o’clock until 4 a.m. They describe these rumblings as fellows :— 1 Per upwards of about ten minutes loud rumblings could he heard in the direction of the volcano ; these noises would increase, and finally wind up with a terrific blast.’ This sort of tiling continued for along time. During the convulsions there was no perceptible motion of the ground, and no fire could he seen issuing from the crater, as tho whole top of the mountain was enveloped In clouds. There seemed to lie a general disturbance, and oven the shepherd's dogs gave warning of something unusual.” Mr Tanner lias (according to the Hawkos Bay Herald), received the returns on his hop crop. Two bales sent to England to test the market there were sold at the rate of £7 per cwt, and thirty-two bales sold in tho colony brought Is fid per lb, or £8 Ss per cwt. ’The average yield was over Howt per aero, and this, it most bo remembered, was irorn cuttings not rooted sots —planted only six months before tho imps were gathered. Such a yield was never heard of in England. This year a crop four times as largo is looked for, and if expectations are realised tho returns wifi be considerably over £l2O an acre, calculating tbs price at £7 per owt. Mr Tanner is putting twenty-six acres more into hops, and U enlarging tho present drying house and adding another kiln. Wo heartily congratulate Mr Tanner upon tho success of his spirited enterprise, and we hops to see bis example followed by others. The committee of tho Benevolent Society on Tuesday received a letter from Mr Kenneth Wilson, who asked for as-istancs to the extent of £1 to make up a sufficient snm to pay the passage to Kngland of a certain Ruv. G. H. Williams. Mr Johnson informed the committee that ho was intimate with the case. Mr Williams had only been out in the colony for about four months, and his friends here desired to send him back. The Kev. W. H. West thought that tho society should not bo asked to contribute to the passage money. For the honor of tbe cloth the person referred to should bo relieved by tho ministers of the city, and he therefore suggested that the mini“ters present should subscribe the amount required. The Kev. Mr Hinton altogether objected to the course proposed so far as making a -.uti.-criptiim was concerned, and he therefore proposed that the society should furnish tho ‘2os asked for. Mr Wardeli, the Kev. J. Paterson, and other members of the committee, expressed the hope that the motion as proposed by Mr Hinton would not he carried. Tho motion was put and lost, only the proposer being in its favor. Tiia annual demonstration of the Foresters’ connected with the Sir George Grey Lodge, tlm Sir G 'orgo Bowen Lodge, and tho Kobin Hood Lodge of this city, was held Wednesday night at St. George’s Hall, which was attended by several hundred members of the order and their lady friends. The demonstration took the form of a torch-light procession, a social tea, which was followed by an entertainment consisting of dancing, interspersed with songs, recitations, &c. The proceedings were of a highly enjoyable character, and were kept up to a fate hour, the music being provided by Bro. J. Tyvelien’s bund. The arrangements were under tho management of Bros. Capper and Dobson, whilst the catering was entrusted to Mr Me In tyro. Not the least feature of the aifair was the torchlight procession, which at irteil from tho Foresters’ Hall, Tory-streeh. Upwards of 400 brethren took part in the procession, all of them being in the full regalia appertaining to the order, and about twenty appearing in the complete costume appertaining to forestrv. Friar Tuck, of course was present, and there were several handsomely dressed Foresters, any of whom might have been taken for Robin Hood and his merry followers of Sherwood Forest. Tbe procession, wbiehjwas really a highly creditable aifair, was under the uiarshaiabip of Bro. Fauvei, District Chief I (auger. At the Hitting of tbe committee of the Benevolent Society on Tuesday, a rather animated discussion ensued relative to the unfortunate men wiio are recipients of aid from the institution. Tho matter arose through the case of a mau who had been put on by tile Relieving Officer to cut gorse, and who, it was thought, he being perfectly willing to work if be could obtain it, might lie far better employed at other than the temporary employment he was now engaged upon. Mr Wardeli expressed tho opinion, gained from an extensive knowledge of the Wairarapa district, that few men need want work if they looked for it in the country, This assertion was combatted by another ■■'tin tie mm, who asserted that there were at tho present timu no fewer than 250 men swaging it in the Upper Wairarapa looking for work. The secretary explained that the majority of tho persona who were for the time dependent npou the institution were men not Toured to hard work, and.in fact, were only fit for very light work. The chairman remarked that it would be absurd to send men to bush felling who bad not been trained to the work, and other members of the committee considered that it would not only bo cruel in tbe extreme to the men themselves, but would entail extra expense on the society to pay their railway fares to the country, where they could not, through lack of physical stiongth, earn enough to subsist upon. An accident of a lamentable and fatal character occurred Tuesday morning to a youth, a recent arrival in the olony, named Albert James, at the Government Railway Works, I’etoue. James, it appears, had to put a belt on a dium with a view to tho driving of a lathe. The clothes of the poor fellow, who was mounted on n ladder, managed to become entangled under tho belt, and he was whirled round the drum and shafting, alighting oa a saw bench. His temple struck the bench, and ho further slid for a distance of several feet, head foremost, his head again striking the Boor, The Injured man was at once attended to, aud Ida situation being evidently a precarious oue, ho was placed in a van, and was by a special train conveyed to town. The special was met at the station by Dr. Henry, who ordero 1 his iustant removal to the hospital. During his transit to tho institution tho sufferer uttered some few words, which were understood to be, “ Lift me up ; I am stifling.” Oa arrival at the hospital tho patient was examined by Dr. Chilton, who pronounced tho man to be dead. An inquest was held on Wednesday morning, and tbe evidence coinciding with the above account, a verdict of accidental death was returned. The deceased was about 19 years of age, and only lately arrived in Wellington by one of the direct steamers.

Tha Hev. Ralph Brown, a minister of the Methodist community in the sister colony of Victoria, delivered a lecture Monday night at the Athenream Hall, which was scarcely largo enough to contain those who sought admission. I'ho chair was occupied by the Kev, W, S, Oliver, who introduced the lecturer ns au old schoolfellow. The subject of the lecture was entitled “ Heads and races,” but this scarcely described the limits of the discourse, and the rev. gentleman, in a rapid and graphic manner, touched not only on physiognomy and phrenology but also on philology. Mr Brown stated that ha was on a tour of the world after a ministerial labor of 20 years in Victoria. Tha lecturer, who Is evidently an enthusiastic in the sciences on which ho lectures, is an extremely rapid speaker, and never for a moment halts in his delivery, which last evening was more of a running comment than o lecture, and which was full of anecdote anil humor. He altogether disclaimed

being a professor of either phrenology 01 physiog morny, but he did claim that he had been a keen observer of human nature. Briefly alluding to tha brain, he said that it was not the mind but the organ of the mind. Ho deprecated the system of cramming boys in onr public schools, and asserted that yearly the cleverest boys of tha Australasias were by it being sent to an untimely grave. Men might be known by their walk, by the way they grasped their acquaintances by the hand, tha lecturer asserted, quite as accurately as by the features of the face, or by the bumps on their heads. At the conclusion of the lecture, which was frequently applauded, Mr Brown asserted that if parents studied phrenology more persistently, and with more system than they did, they would place their sons in the positions in life which accorded more congenially with their varied temperaments, and thereby they would not only avoid sorrow for themselves, bat would inevitably become the lasting earthly happiness of their progeny. After the lecture, Mr Brown manipulated the heads of several gentlemen of his audience, to the evident amusement of his hearers.

By onr latest Dunedin files wo are informed that on Monday last Messrs Gillies, member fur Bruce ; Ross, Roslyn ; Fyke, Dnustan ; and Thompson, Glntba ; were burnt in ( ffigy on the reclaimed ground at Dunedin in the presence of between 2000 or 3000 people, because they bad voted against the Stout-Vogel Ministry. What tho electors of tho city of Dunedin had to do with outside electorates has yet to be explained. It is said, however, that a big Fish was concerned in the transaction.

A collision occurred near tbe tram beds on .Saturday evening, tbe result being a narrow escape from severe injury. It appears that an express load of people were proceeding into town to visit tiio theatre, when their vehicle collided with a buggy, driven by Mr Hart, of Happy Honrs celebrity, the consequence being that the buggy was overturned aud smashed, while the occupants of the express, most of them females, were thrown out by the shock. They were t .ken to tho hospital i.-nd attended by Dr. Chilton. On Sunday morning the ladies had so far recovered as to be able to 1-mvo tho hospital. Tiie usual monthly inspection of the Garrison Corps was held last Friday evening, at the Drill-shed, Lieut-Cnlouel I’earce being in command. ’1 he attendance was a very large oneone of the largest, indeed, that has been witnessed for snmo time. Several mar.ceuvres having been executed, Lieut Coinnel Boarce addressing tbe men on parade, reminded (hem of the church parade to bo held on the last Sunday in this mouth. He also pointed nut that a guard of honor would he formed from the corps on the occasion of tho opening of Parliament on the next Tuesday. Subsequently a “march out” took place. On Tuesday afternoon last the remains of Mrs Macintosh, of the Family Hotel, lower Hutt, were interred in the English Cemetery. Deceased was, on Friday last, engaged in her household duties, when, by some means, she broke a blood vessel, which brought on her death upon tho following Sunday morning. The deceased lady was well known and highly respected, both in the Hutt District and in Wellington, Mr Macintosh being for many years proprietor of tho Melbourne Hotel, Wellington. Her remains were followed to the grave by a great number of friends and relatives.

Some excitement was caused in front of a draper’s shop in Courtenay-plaoo oa Saturday night. It appears that the proprietor of the establishment in question had kept Ida shop open after 9 p.m., although lie had pledged himself not to do so by signing the agreement of tho Early Closing Association, and, in consequence, a cumber of the members of that association proceeded to him with tho request to close. He, however, refused to do so, although repeatedly asked, and in the meantime a large crowd gathered round the entrance to see what was going on, They commenced jeering the draper, and tho uproar reached its climax when a rotten egg, thrown by some larrikin, (struck a lady who was entering tbe shop on the ear. The draper soon afterwards wisely put up Ids shatters, and the crowd dispersed. The Auckland Herald had a correspondent amongst tho quarantined passengers of the Waihora, and the following is an extract from one of his letters“ By the way, does it strike the people of Auckland that a large share of injustice is being meted out to the Waihora’s passengers quarantined hero over the present smallpox scare 3 Since her arrival in Now Zealand waters scores of people have been landed from her at the several coast ports, most notably Sir William Jervois, and about CO other passengers between the Bluff and Wellington, another 25 at Napier, and over 20 at Gisborne. Many of these have since reached Auckland. The most strange part of it is, all tbe Melbourne passengers cleared from tbo vessel south of Gisborne, the people quarantined being from the coast north of Lyttelton. It is worthy of remark that no notice was taken of the landing of some cattle aud sheep from tbo Waihora, and they have actually been driven through your public streets. Another feature is the laxity of those in power in not preventing outside communication with this place. No later than Sunday hist a vessel bronght-to off tho east side of the island, and a boat's crow of three men were scut ashore to gather sand, during which time they were actually iu conversation with some of the passengers. The whole aifair re quarantining the Waihora is simply a farce, and the sooner the curtain is dropped and the actors (i’e., the quarantined people) are allowed -to go about their business, the better for the credit and good name of those responsible for tbe public health.”

Another severe gale passed over Wellington last Friday. It appeared early in the forenoon as if the day were going to be fine, bat very soon heavy showers of rain proved the contrary. Towards noon the wind increased from the 5.13 , and shortly afterwards the sky began to darken, until at about 2 p.m, a ter* ritio storm of hail and snow, accompanied by rolls of thunder and one or two vivid flashes of lightning burst forth. The streets were in a short time covered with snow and large hailstones, while the Tinakori range assumed an unwanted white covering. Snow was also lying throughout the day ou the higher ranges of mountains visible from Wellington, such as the Himutaka and Tararua. It cleared up later in the afternoon, but during the evening a fre.-di squall of rain and rdeet came up. At about 9 p.m, nuow again began to fall for a short time, and the wind was still raging with all its force at an early hour this morning The barometer, which had gone down to 29‘31in, began to rise steadily at noon, while the thermometer fell, the lowest reading in a sheltered position being 36 degrees. This, even for Wellington, most extraordinary weather, appears to have been felt in various other parts of the colony, as will be seen by our telegrams. At Carterton the snowfall wa* heavier than has ever been known before. It is needless to mention that all this inclement weather impeded the shipping trade to a considerable extent, some steamers being delayed for 12 hours or more in arriving, while no vessel could leave port while it lasted. Snow in the city of Wellington is really phenomenal. A country contemporary thus comments on a recent episode in Mr Stout’s career, illustrating his recklessness of the public funds, and eagerness to serve bis own convenience:— Mr Stout, the new Premier, has signalised the beginning of bis term of office by saddling the country with a special train and steamer —the latter a luxury in this instance particularly expensive. He left Wellington at a most critical time, and went to Dunedin to act as counsel iu a mercantile law suit, thus placing

bis private business before the public welfare. Of course he had to come back to the seat of Government in a great hnrry, and on Friday ha proceeded from Dunedin to Lyttelton by special train. At the latter port the Harbor Board’s tug steamer, the Lyttelton, was specially chartered to convey him to Wellington, at £2 per hour. She left at 3.30 on Friday afternoon, and got into Wellington at 1,45 on Saturday afternoon, the long passage of 22J hours being attributed to a dense fog. The Lyttelton was to leave for the South again on Saturday evening, and would probably have returned to the bosom of tbe Harbor Board some time on Sunday afternoon. The £2 per hour no doubt applies to tbe time sbo was away from Lyttelton, and the expense will of course fall upon a grateful country. Supposing the tug to have been away 48 hours — which appears to be a moderate estimate—Mr Stout’s devotion to his private emoluments will have coat New Zealand £96 for a special steamer alone. This is tbe way tbe money goes—and it is all the same whether a Radical or a Tory is at the helm. A meeting of the Wellington Lumpers’ Union was held at the Fire Brigade Hall, Manners-afreet, Wednesday night, Air Bradley occupying the chair. There was a good attendance, notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather. The minutes of the previous meeting having been read and adopted, Mr Bradley was elected vice-president. Some discussion arose in connection with the funeral of Patrick Oarrol, which had been undertaken by the committee. It was ultimately resolved that the expanses be paid by the union. Mr Berry was then elected as a vice-president in addition to Mr Bradley, and it was proposed and seconded that Air Robert Seymour be elected assistant secretary, but the motion wasnotputtothe meeting, as Mr Seymour was not present. The treasurer stated thattbe late vice-president, MrMardell had left Wellington, and that he had several certificates for honorary members in his possession, two of which had been sent back from his house. Mr Tobiu stated that ho had not seen Mr Mardeil since Tuesday the 19th. The Treasurer stated that 100 honorary members’ cards had been printed ; a number of which were not accounted for, the subscriptions for which amounted to £l3 or £l4. It was stated in the ensuing discussion that 72 cards

had been disposed of, but that only £2d bar been received by the Treasurer. Several ol the members expressed condemnatory opinion* on the manner in which the disposal of the tickets had been carried on. Mr Bradley suggested the appointment of a committee ol investigation, with the power of taking legal proceedings if necessary, in order to keep faith with the public. In accordance with this suggestion a committee of investigation, consisting of three members, was appointed to report to the union as soon as possible. Mr Ontram, the treasurer, tendered his resignation as a delegate to the Trades’ and Labor Council, on tho ground that he could not attend to both duties. The matter was allowed to stand oyer. A parchment testimonial to Mr Gardner, the delegate of the Otago Trades and Labor Council, who had been instrumental in tha formation of the uuian, was received, and tha amonnt charged passed for payment. In consequence cf what bad transpired during tha discussion, it was resolved to advertise that no orders would be recognised unless signed by the president or the two vice-presidents. After tho enrolment of two members tha meeting adjourned.

A providential escape from death was experienced Wednesday afternoon by one of the clerks in the Lands Registrar’s Office in the old Frovincial Buildings. The gentleman reDried to had only just left the fireplace when a heavy iron pole came crashing through the ceiling, smashing the mantlopiece to splinters. The pole it appears had slipped from the hands of some workmen on the roof of the building, who were adjusting some telephone fixings. According to a return laid on tho table at last week’s meeting of the Harbor Board, the tonnage of goods entered inwards at the port of Wellington daring ths past seven months aas as follows ; —Foreign, 262897 J coastwise, 19,822 ; transhipments, 18,055 ; total, 04,374, The figures for the same period of 1333 are:— Foreign, 18,353 ; coastwise, 10,873 ; transhipment, 10,017 ; total, 51,748 ; showing an increase of 12.020.

During hU lecture on Madera Meteorology, held at tbo Athenaeum laat night week, Dr. Hector stated that experiments had been made which showed that a fog like thot/e fiequently prevailing in London, immediately became condensed on being electrified aud passed away into water, lie stated that use had been made id the lighting rods and powerful electric machines which discharged a shower of electric sparks into the fog. By a similar plan it has been proposed to bring down, in the shape of rain, the immense clouds that pass over Australia without shedding any of their contents.

That there should be intimate acquaintance between bojs and athletics has passed into a truism. Mind and muscle ought to be developed simultaneously, and here, as elsewhere, college boys aro looked to as the legitimate exponents of tho principle set forth. Already there are anticipations about tbe ensuing Christmas sporti at the college, and we notice with pleasure that two exceedingly pretty prizes have been provided by Mr J. O. Harris, of this paper, for boys of thirteen years and under, for running and jumping. We hope a good prize for general gymnastics and boxing will also be forthcoming, and soon. Prizes for the sports should be announced early in order that tho youngsters may have time to train a little.

Sincere regret will be experienced at the announcement of tho demise of Lady Whitaker, tho wifj of SirF. Whitaker, who for ao many years has been identified with the political and social institutions of the colony. The deceased lady was more especially known in Auckland city and Auckland province, in which her benevolence and countless daily acts of kindly charity have for years past endeared her to the poor and needy. In Wellington, Lady Whitaker was perhaps scarcely so well known, but tho genial hospitality she displayed to visitors and residents in tho metropolis some two years since, and during her husband’s term of office as Premier of the colony, will never be effaced from tbe memory of her guests, Tho immigration returns of the colony from Ist July, 1883, to 30th June, 1834, have this week been laid before both Houses of Parlia* ment. The total number of statute adults arriving to the last-mentioned date has been 5452, or 6267 souls. The total number to that date from July, 1871, was 110,686 souls, equal to 93,621 statute adults. The nationalities of these were as follows;—English, 55,593 ; Irish, 28,410 ; Scotch, 18,877 ; French, 309; Swedes, 714; Norwegians, 714; Italians, 313 ; others, 637. The rates of passage have bean as follows :—Adults, £l4 7s 61 to £ls ; children, £8 7a 6d to £9. The total passage-money paid for the past year ending 30th June, 1884, has been £81,973 7* 6d, of which £11,620 7s 6d was cash paid in tho colony for nominated immigrants. On Wednesday night last week a lecture was given at the Oddfellows* Hall, Lower Hutt, by the Rev, Ralph Brown, The chair was taken by the Rev. Mr Garlick, who briefly introduced the lecturer. Mr Brown opened his lecture by saying he had studied character by the walk, shake of the hand, &c., ever since 15 years of age. Therefore, he might be accredited with knowing something about his subjects. The lecture, which was of an interesting aud instructive nature, was listened to by au highly appreciative audience. At the close of the lecture several of the audience went through the trying ordeal of having their bumps felt. Those who may have the chance of hearing Mr Brown may look forward to something really worth listening to. The lecture closed by singing tbe “National Anthem.”

The ordinary meeting of tlie Board of College Governors was held yesterday, there being present Messrs Brandon (in the chair), H. Bunny, Dr Hector, and Eev J. Patterson. Deep regret was expressed by the board at the demise of Colonel Decide, who had for so long a time occupied a seat at the board, and who had invariably displayed great attention to the requirements of the college. It was resolved that a letter should be addressed to Mrs Decide, expressing tho board’s deepest sympathy in her bereavement. The resignation of Mr Brown, the junior master of tho college, was received, and it was decided to advertise for a new junior master. Miss Noako having declined to accept the position of music mistress to the Girls’ High School, the appointment was conferred upon Miss Swainson. The Governors decided to endeavour to get a Bill passed the Houses of the Degisature during the present session to enable the Governors to borrow money to purchase a site for the Girls’ High School, and Mr Brandon stated that he would take charge of the Bill in the Degislative Council, The meeting then terminated. An interesting undertaking, and one that is likely to prove of importance to the colony, is about to be undertaken by some Canterbury capitalists, with the assistance of Mr Federli. fbe object of the scheme is to establish a settlement in the northern part of the Auckland district for tho purpose of encouraging the cultivation of sub-tropical products. The idea is to import in the meantime fifty families from the south of Europe who are to be carefully selected as being acquainted with the cultivation of oranges, lemons, grapes, olives, and tobacco ; and should this first experiment prove a success, operations are to be extended in this direction, Mr Federli is now on his way north, with the Secretary of the Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association, who has been deputed by the shareholders in the proposed company to inspect with him a block of some 6000 acres in the Hokianga district, which it is proposed to secure for the purpose* This block it is intended to cut up into small fruit farms, wherein the immigrants will be settled and assisted by the company in the establishment of the industry. The Government railway returns of revenue and expenditure for the four weeks ending 10 th July are published in the Gazette of the 21st instant. From this it appears that there are now 480 miles open for traffic in the North Island, against 451 last year, and 932 in the Middle Island, against 015 last year. The revenue for the four weeks from the North Island lines was £20,461 17s lid, against £16,582 13s 9d in the corresponding period last year, and for the Middle Island £58,086 12s lOd, against £49,559 8s 7d in the corresponding period last year. The expenditure for the North Island lines during the four weeks was £15,250 19s 4d, against £12,642 4s lOd last year, and the expenditure for the Middle Island £40,170 lls, against £36,559 Is

10d last year. Tbe nett increase in traffic thus shown is satisfactory. Tbe most profitable railway per mile in tbe colony is the Greyraouth line, which now yields a nstt profit of £733 13s 7d per mile. The total cost of construction of all the lines in the colony, including expenditure on harbor works forming part of tbe railway system, has been £12,226,129 17s 3d, of which sum the Hum-nui-Bluff section with its branches has cost £6,940,634 17s 3d. Our obituary column records the decease of one of our early colonists. Mr Joseph Godfrey Holdsworth arrived in Wellington some thirty years ago, and, in partnership with Mr John Knowles, devoted the first few years of his colonial life to commercial pursuits. Subsequently he was elected a member of the Wellington Provincial Council. He was afterwards appointed paymaster of roads, the duties of his office embracing the roads of the city, and extending on the east and west to the extremity of the districts then in the course of settlement. On the abolition of the provinces, his industry and fidelity gained for him the appointment of District Crown Land Commissioner, which appointment he held until his death. Some four months ago, by the advice of his physician, be asked, and obtained, six months’ leave of absence, and his friends earnestly hoped that rest and quiet might enable him again to take some active part in life. It was not, however, to he. The disease of the heart, from which

he suffered, was in little or no degree mitigated, and on last Thursday fortnight, after attending a meeting of the Educational Reserves Trustees in the morning, and of the Hospital Convalescent Fund Trust in the afternoon, he returned home with a severe cold, and very ill. He went to bed, from which he never rose

again. Last Saturday night week he suffered a stroke, which paralysed his light side and deprived him of the power of speech, which he never regained, although conscious, and able \ to recognise his family and his physician, whose attendance upon him and efforts for his relief were unremitting; and between 6 and 7 last Saturday night, bis life on earth was quietly terminated. Mr Holdsworth was a prominent member of the Congregational body, but bis sympathies were too broad to be confined to one section of the Chri-tian Church. During Dr Somerville’s evangelistic meetings in this city six years ago, the Young Men’s Christian Association was instituted, and for five years, as president of the society, his labors were nn. tiring. For several years he was chairman of the Benevolent Society, an official visitor of the hospital and Lunatic Asylum, and in all I evangelist effort or kindly charity he wag an j earnest worker, and will long bo missed, I

The installation dinner of the Aorangi Lodge connected with the British Order of Oddfellows, was held at the Athenaeum Hall Tuesday night, which was attended by upwards of seventy guests. The dinner was presided over by Bro Higginbotham, Grand Imperial, the vice-chair being occupied by Bro E. J. Johnson, The dinner was all that could be desired. The hall was most tastefully decorated with bunting, and the utmost good feeling prevailed throughout the proceedings. Prior to the banquet the installation ceremony of the lodge was performed by Bro W. Higginbotham, G.E, in the impressive manner appertaining to the order. The catering was entrusted to Bro J. McGinnity, who certainly left nothing to lie desired. The usual patriotic and other toasts were duly honored, and a variety of songs, recitations, &c., were Introduced between the speeches in the course cf the evening.

The annual report of the Civil Service Examination Board has been placed before Parliament. In the October, 1883, examination, 122 candidates presented themselves for the Junior Examination ; 59 passed, and 63 failed ; 21 failed in English, 17 in arithmetic, 37 in history, and 37 in geography. The highest number of marks, 1896, was obtained by William Henry Victor Hall. In the Senior Examination 37 candidates were examined, 17 passed and 20 failed. The highest number of marks was gained by James Wither, of Nelson College, 3799. At the April, 1884, examination, 80 candidate presented themselves for examination : 44 passed, and 36 failed ; 12 failed in English, 23 in arithmetic, 20 in history, 20 in geography, and 2 in shorthand. The highest number of marks was gained by Henry James Carter, 1857. Fur the Senior Examination 21 were examined : 8 passed and 13 failed. The highest number of marks was gained by John Ritchie Boswell, 3190.

A well-attended meeting of the Wellington Philosophical Society was held at the Colonial Museum Wednesday evening, Mr Martin Chapman occupying the chair. Dr Levinge and Mr M. Richmond were announced as new members. A review of a paper by M. A. de Quatrefages on the date of the extinction of the moa, was read by Mr W. M. Masked. The object of the paper under review was to disprove the position taken up by Professor Von Haast, that the moa was exterminated many thousands of years ago, which conclusion M. de Quatrofages, the author, arrived at after an exhaustive examination of the evidence bearing on the subject. An interesting discussion followed, in which Dr Hector, Mr R. Gillies, Mr McKay, Mr Batkiu, and Mr Chapman took part, all generally agreeing with the views of M. de Quatrefages, viz., the more recent extinction of the moa. Dr Hector exhibited interesting minerals collected at Wade and Queen of Beauty, Makara, by Mr McKay, and some photographs of various races, presented by Prince Roland Bonaparte. He further drew attention to a present to the library of the New Zealand Institute, of publications of the Challenger. expedition of 1873-76, consisting of ten large volumes, received from the British Government.