AUSTRALIAN.

New Zealand Times, Volume XLIV, Issue 7485, 25 May 1885, Page 2

AUSTRALIAN.

(Per g.s. Manapouri, at the Bluff.) (UNITED PEK33 ASSOCIATION.) Melbodbnk, Slay 20._ In February last, Mr Service, Colonial Secretary, wrote to New South Waloj re* questing; information as to the Datura of the proposed supervision for a scientific exploratiou in New Guinea. An answer has been received, dated February 27tb, stating that the Geographical Society of Australasia has not yet matured any plans of exploration. It states that Admiral Tryon, and General Scratchley both advised delay until they assumed their respective offices in New Guinea, when they would bo able to support on the spot the proposed expedition. The Society proposes without delay to undertake the exploration q! the River Aird, in order to ascertain bow far an expedition could penetrate by water, William. Barnes, foe the murder of Slack, was hanged at Melbourne on Good Friday last. He professed penitence for the crime. It has been resolved to call a public meeting in aid of the Gordon memorial on the 29 th, the Governor presiding. The production of the new opera “lolaothe,” by Gilbert and Sullivan, at the Theatre Royal, was a most unqualified success. The Tasmanian Government has addressed Admiral Tryon on the subject of protecting Bass Straits in the event of war. Mr Service supports their demand* The chair of Classics and Comparative Philology in the Melbourne University has been filled bv Professor Tucker, o f Auckland University College, Professor Tucket’s election was carried by a majority of nine to three. The only arguments used by the minority against Professor Tucker’s election were on the principle of open competition. The Victorian Commissioners to the Indian and Colonial Exhibition have received a letter from the Agent-General, stating that the Guarantees Fund has reached * £150,000. Colored maps, showing portions occupied by various colonies, were also sent. 'The Anstraliau colonies hive been allotted positions in the centre of the Exhibition. Stdnet, May 20. It is reported that Lieutenant Airey, of the Now South Wales Contingent, has been appointed adjutant, Adelaide, May 20. , Members of the Volunteer Military Forest who took part in the late encampment are indignant that the Government has not paid them yet. It is understood that the Government withheld pay in consequence of a dispute with Government servants belonging to the force. Government allege they will not allow Volunteer officers who are Civil servants to draw military pay in addition to a salary.