THE SCHOOL VACATIONS.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 7138, 31 December 1884, Page 2 (Supplement)

THE SCHOOL VACATIONS.

BOYS' HIGH SCHOOL.

The annual distribution of prizes to the pupils of the Boys' High School took place on December 18. There was a large attendance, as usual, tho number of spectators being limited only by the capacity of tho schoolroom. Among the gentlemen present were: The R^v. Dr Roseby, the Yen. Archdeacon Edwards, Rtiv. W. Bantiermau, Rev. A. R. Fitchett, Hon. W. H. Reynolds, M.L.0., Messrs R. Gillies, M H.R., A. Holmes, W. D. Stewart, M.H.R., W. P Street, J. B. Park, J. R. Sinclair, D'Arcy Haggitt, E. B. Cargill, F. R Chapman, K. Ramsay, H. J. Walter, J. Fulton, M.H.R, J. Macgregor, A. H. Ross, M.H.R, Dr Hocken, and Professor Macgregor. The Rev. Dr Stuart, the chairman of the Board of Governors, said : Ladies and gentlemen, and boys, I am sure you will be very glad when I tell you that the Hon. Mr Stout, the Premier of the Colony, at the request of the Board, has consented to preside at this gathering, to present the well-earned prizes, as I hear they are all well earned by the winners. —(Applause.) Shall I tell you that Mr Stout Bottled in thiß Colony before he was out of his 'teens; that be taught in our schools, and subsequently in our University, and earned a i good degree as a publio instructor. When he ! went into another 6phere of life he kept his old earnest zeal for the education of tho paople, and when a member of Parliament, those who read the debates will recognise his broad hand in our present Education Act—an Act which, notwithstanding one little blemish, has conferred, I think, a very great benefit, and is conferring a very great benefit on the Colony. When Mr Stout was a member of the Grey Cabinet he made tho boys of Otago in all time coming his debtor, by securing for the High School tho beßt sito in our romantic city, on which beautiful and commodious premises have been recently reared, and which will be perfactly ready for occupation when the school Resumes next February. — (Applause.) Mr Stout has gratified the friends of secondary education by many an able exposition and defence of it, and especially by his defence of it in the laßt session of Parliament. Boys, lam not sure that I am prepared to hail Mr Stout as vales sacer, but, notwithstanding, I think he has many of the elements of that character in him, that he has a hearty love of the Colony, and also a great capacity of work and progress, with a good deal of outspokenness and straightforwardness. Now, as an enlightened educationist, as a former member of the Board of Governors, land as Premier of the Colony, in the name of the Board I have great pleasure in asking him to preside at this meeting and distribute the prizes. The following is the annual report of the lsoys' High School: —

Daring the past year 85 boys have entered the High School for the first timo. Tho total number enrolled is 295—136 in the upper RKd 159 in the lower f chool. For the four quarters the numbers on the roll h»vo been respectively 261, 261, 2E6. 240 .While the attendant in tin upper school is larger than was tha case last year, the nttendancs in ill s lower school has not been bo large, tin fallius-.il bong wiufly in the preparatory class Nineteen senior and four juiror scholars of the Otaga Klucation Board have been iv atteutlai cc tlur.ng the year, and four boys who mado 50 psr cent, of marka or over at the s:holarship exami- aiicn have received free ediici ion. Tha numbsr o! boys received into the bcariiog establishment dus ing the year U 44. 01 the eight junior scholarships awarded last year by the No * Zealand Univei s .y two were won by boya Irom th-i High School—Frauds B Ailou and John K. Montgomery, F.a'ly in th« year an examination was held for the Gray Rusßtll tcho'arship, wbi;h was awarded to William F. Baushop. Daring the session the various classes have bad weekly gimnastic lesions under Mr John Hanna, who was specially Belected at Home to fill tho position of gymnastic master in the Boy? anil Girls1 High Schools. Under tte careful and skilful teaching of Mr Hanna the boys have shown a growing interest in their gymnastic lessons, and have attained to considerable proficiemy in the various exercises. The following old pupils of the High School have gained University honours during the past year :—

UKIVMtaiTY Or KBW ZBAiAKD. DW M Burn, Alexander Purdie: Degree of Master of Arts.

R M Lalng : Degtee of Bachelor of Arts. UNIVERSITY OF OTAQO.

John Somervilio: First ciass senior anatomy (prize), flret class surgery (prize). John R Montgomery: First c!ass junior Latin (prize), first class junior mathematics (first prize), practical chemistry (prize). F B Allen: First class senior mathematics (prize), first class experimeotal physics Ro'aert Donald : Firbt class chemistry (prize), solution of problems (prize), second class junior mathematics. ■ Q A Copland: Firat class biology, first clasa biological laboratory, second clas! French. ■William Mill: First class junior mathematics, second cUes junior Latin, second clasa fficgllsh language and literature. Charles T Little: First clais Fronch (prize). Phinehas Levi : Hrst class mental science (prize). F E Baume: KirsS class French (lower division), second clasD constitutional history. John Ashar: Second class senior Latin, eccond class senior mathematics. W F Bauchop: Second claBS junior Latin, second class junior mai hematics, second class chemist-y. T X Sldey: Secor.d c'aa constitutional history, second class jurisprudence. W Dermer: Second class anatomy, second class chemistry. James Johnstone, 8.A.: Second class anatomy, second class Burgßry. ,**" John B Waters: Second class English language and literature. . I Burns: Second class anatomy. X Fulton : Second class biological laboratory. F E Baldwin: Second class law of property. HSIVKRSITY O? EDINBUKaH.

W A Fleming: First cl&sp nractical natural history, first class botany, second class practical pathology, second class natural history. P A Lindßiy: First clasa anatomy, surgery, and physiology, and a Garlyle bursary; second class practical pathology and practical physiology. William Maclean: Duncan's prize in surgery. Frank Mackenzie : First class in surgery. Fred. Jeffcoat: First clasa anatomy and physiology. William Allan: Sec >nd class natural history, second class practical natural history. In addition to the medals and bookß voted by the Board of Governors, variom kind friends of the school have forwarded prizea for preeentation. The Chamber of Commerce have again given a gold medil for the best scholar in English and arithmetic, a silver medal for the beet arithmetician in the whole school, and a silver medal for the best arithmetic an in the lower school. The Shakespeare Club have renewed their priza for reading Mrs Burn, Rev Dr Stuart, Mr Gilbert Matheson, Mr Wilkie, Mr Horsburgh, Mr J X Sinclair, Mr Mackerras, Mr Hutton. and lit Livingston have kindly continued their gifts. (Mr S Solomon sent in a haodwme prize too late for acknowledgment in the printed report ) PBESENTATION OP PRIZES.

The Premier made the presentation of prizes as follows :—

Preparatory eta.-English, George Gray; arithmetic, George Gray: writing, Nigel D Connell. First Class.-Latin, William A Low; English, J Kenneth Macrae; arithmetic, J Kenneth Macrae; writing, Lionel D Cox ; drawing, Harry T Gillies. Second Clasa — Latin, Richard James Hudson ; English, William Morrisrn, Henry D Fiah ; arithmetic, Frederick E Hargetts, Arnold O Connell; writing, Arthur H Fisher; drawing, Charles W Lower Third Clasß.—Latin, Ludwig II A Blilau, Arthur William Gillies: English, Arthur William GiUiej, William M Macdonald; French, Ludwig H A Bulau; arithmetic, Andrew X Pitches, Arthur William Gillies ; writing, Androw E Pitches; drawing, Thomas E Brown. Upper Third ClaßS.—Latio, Charles F Salmond ; English, Charles F Salmond ; French, Charles F Saimond ; arithmetic, James F Mollison ; writing, Charles Rutherford(Mr Livingston's prize); drawing, Charles S Smith. For the best Header (Shakespeare Club prize).— Thomas Ewing Brown. Chamber of Commerce Silver Medal for Arithmetic. —Peter Hercu3 Dux of the Lower School (Governors' silver medal). —Peter Hercus. DPPKR SCHOOL. Lower Fourth Class.—Laiin, Andrew Macdonald ; Enzlish, Andrew Macdonald, Alfred Forsyth (lower division ; mathematics, Alexander Carson, Charles R S Barretl Power division); French, Irwin W W Hunter ; aolence, Neil Gllchrist; drawing, Alfred A M Hogg. Upper Fourth Cla=s. - Latin: William W Bird, James Stuart (lower division). English: Nell A J Paterson, Joseph Stevens. Mathematics: FranzV Siedebere. French: George X Weot. German: FraakH Campbell. Science: John Harvey. Drawing : Arthur Wadie. Fifth Class.—Latin: James Watt (Dr Stuart's prize). English : Frsnk E Wilson. Mathematics : Alfred E : Inder. French: Alexander W Robertson. Science : Hobert H Hogg. German : Robert II Hogg. Drawing: George T Stevens (Mr Hutton's prize.) tux in Latin (Mr J T Mackerrab' priz3).—John Bell Thomson. Dux in English (Mr Horsburgh's prizs).—William Elliott. Dux in Mathematics (tfr Wilkie'a prize).—Joseph Moss.. Dut in French (Mr J R Siuclair'a prize).—Thomas B Crump. Dux in German (Mr G Matheion's prize).—James H Reid. Dux In Scianee (Mrs Burn's prize).—Percy G Morgan. Chamber of Commerce Silver Medal for Arithmetic—Alfred E Inder. Chamber ot Commsrco Gold Medal for Arithmetic and English.—Adam Begz. Dux of the School (Governors' gold medal). — Adam Begg. CBBTmCAIEB OF MERIT. Preparatory Class.—Gerald G Austin, James B C Arthur, English. First Cla°s.-Sidaoy 0 Leary, arithmetic ; VG Fereusson, Latin and arithmetic ; Frederick A Hardy, Latin ; Harry T Gillies, English. Second Cla?s —A D Connell, Latin ; John Carter, Charles W Harvey, James H HuzUtt, Albert E A Keast. arithmetic. Lower Third Clas3 -W M Micdonald, L^tin ;R G Inglis, 0S L Catomore, English ; T R Brawn, William T Gillies, Alfred A JUrsden, arithmetic. Upper Third Cla3e.—William Allan, Latin and arithmetic : Charles D S Jljore, John Orknoy, English ; John Page, James Begg, arithmetic; H E Williams, French. Lpwer Fourth Class. - Onslow Fulton, English ; Henry C M»theson, II T Duthie, mathematics ; Irwin W W Hunter, Latin and English. Upper Fourth Class. -Georue C Fache, Eugene A Cam.'bell, English ; George Mathison, Robert Scoular, Latin ; Robert Landreth, Latin and mathema- ' Fifth Clas3.—Alexandor William Robertson, mathematics ; ThomasDPearce, French ; GeorgeT Stove. 18, mathematics, English, and science; GrahamHTurton, science ; John A Scott, English. THE PBBMIBB'a ADDItESS. The Hon. Mr Stout said: Ladies and gentlemen, the prizes have now been distributed, and as the report has not been read, I may say one or two words about what the report contains, Jfirst, I think it must be extremely pleasing not only to the friends of the school and to those who have children attending the school, but also to those throughout the Provincial District of Olago who have taken in the past much interest in its establishment and maintenance, to see the high position so many of the old pupils of the school have taken in the University examinations. The record is that there are no leas than 18 students in the University of Otago who have taken distinguished positions— somo, I think, the highest prizes in their classes, who were formerly pupils in the High School, Dunedin; two students who have taken degrees iv the New Zealand University were formerly pupils of this school; and you will see that no less than six boys who were trained in the High School, Dnnedin, have distinguished themselves in the University of Edinburgh.— (Applause.) This list ought, I think, to be Sufficient of itself to prove to everyone the good work that the school has done and will still do if it only has the sympathy of those who desire to see our young people educated. Having said these few words about the Bchool, I should like to say a few words to the boys. lam not goiup; to apeak about the

use of prizes, because, after all, it seems to me that a school i 8 very much like the world : there are prizes everywhere, and some are trying for them that do not obtain them, and some who porhaps ought to have obtained thorn fail. 1 know perfectly well what has happened in the past iv many schools, aad very likely it may have happened iv this school, and that is : boys, perhaps from their disposition, perhaps from their nervousness, perhaps from the state of thoir physical health, ofton fail in obtaining prizes; and I would ask those who have obtained prizes, and those who bavo not, to remember this, that in the school you got ooinothing that is bettor and grander than auy pnza, if you pay any attention whatever to your studios, and that is good mental discipline: you will get trained for the work you will afterwards have to do in the world. I will cay further —this to those who are not prizetakers, —that though thsy have not baen successful in obtaining prizes this Beßsion, yet it may happen that in the future they may obtain prizes, whilst even thos9 who have distinguished themsolvoa here may not be bo fortunate. Looking back on my old school days I can remember n pupil that we thought almost to be a booby, who did not obtain any distinction amongst'uß, who obtained no prizes, and was only noted for this—that he was hard-working, that he never caased working j but when he went up to the University ho not only distinguished himself, but he had a distinction conferred upon him that none other had that year at the University—his modical thesis was at once translated by the Academy of Science as being worthy of distribution even in Trance. I point this out to you to Bhow that, after all, the thing that tells in tha world is,; not mere brilliancy, but simply dogged hard work, and if each one of you only resolves to do this—to work hard at whatever you are doing—l believe you will be following out the best advice it is possible to give to you. First, of course, you ought to look after your health, because if you have not got good health all other things are of no value whatever. I am exceedingly pleased to see that in this distribution prizes have been given to boys who have distinguished themselves in physical exercises. I can say, further, that, looking back at what has happened within my knowledge of school life, that after all the one who has at any rate got most pleasure in the world has been the one who paid the greatest attention to his physical health—who looked upon that aa the first thing in life. And then I tell you the next thing in life is to look after your conduct, and it is only a third thing really to be mentally trained. You have to be our citizens in the future, and if you have good health from looking after your health carefully, and if you look as carefully after your conduct, baing careful not to do the slightest thing that would harm a neighbour, but, on the contrary, trying to help anybody, and in everything so walk in your life that you will be an example to all around you; then, if you get these things—physical health and moral culture- you will soon gat sufficient mental training and intellectual culture to (it you for anything in life. — (Applauses I do not know whether you are all old enough to have heard it, but I dare say some of you have heard people say, "What shall we do with our boys ? What openings are there for our boys ?" Now there are thousands of openingß for svery one of you. We have here a large cauutry with only a small population, and there avo hundreds of things that you can do. Of course you cannot all expect to go into what are termed "the professions," and be doctors, ministers, or lawyors, or other thingß of that class; but there are many other things that you can pay attention to. Coming here to day and looking over the list of your past High School duces, I was thinking how many of them, even during the short time this schoo has been in operation, have distinguished themselves in those professions they have taken up. Some have distinguished themselves very greatly. Some became lawyers, some doctors, and so .on, but I could not see any who had become journalists. Why should we not even train our own journalists? Inßtead_of. importing people to tell us what our politics should be and what we should do in our social and political life, why not train some of you to be our future editors ? We have to study *vtat is called shorthand and other things, and I would like to see the bigger boys among you learning to write shorthand. It would b3 of immense service to you even if you do not take to tho journalistic profession. _ I only mention that as one of the openings for you. There is another field almost untrodden open to our young people in New Zealand. Look at the field of science Discoveries and inventions are not yet. at an end; and, as has been said, Nature s secrets are not one-tenth known. Why should not some of yon be our future scientific men ? Why not find in New Zealand many things not discovered in older lands ? There alao is an opening for you. Now I would say further, that although you are only boys you have a very high duty. You have not only to repay your parents for the great trouble they have in bringing you up—thoy have to furnish you with food and clothing, and they are providing you with education,—but you have also a duty to all the people of the country—to what is called the State —for what has been done for you. They have set apart lands and built buildings—what for? To make you better than your fathers, to give you a higher education than has yet been given. Now how can you make yoar school famous, so that it will be an honour to belong to it and to say that you were educated here ? In this way: If each one of you works hard, and tries to do his best in whatever work he is called upon to perform, so as to maintain the good name that the High School of Otago has obtained in the past. Remember, it is to you that we have to look in Otago for those who are to guide us in the future—guide, rather, I may say, the country in the future, when we, who are older than you here today, will have passed away. We have to look to look to you. You have to be our future lawyers, clergymen, doctors, the future politicians of Otago. Now just think, each one, and especially the older among you, what a great duty rests upon you so to work and act that the large credit this school has obtained shall oe maintained in future. Let it not be said in after years when you go to the University, by the person who distributes the prizes here, that 20 of the High School boys have distinguished themselves at the New Zealand University and six at the Edinburgh University. Bather you should so work that when the distribution of prizes takes place three or five years hence, when many of you have passed as university students, the person who distributes the prizes will be able to point to not 20, but perhaps double that number, who have distinguished themselves at the universities. It is in that way you will maintain the credit of the High School, and repay in some degree the c*re your teachers have bestowed upon you.. Unless the older people present have passed through a teacher's life they cannot know the care, anxiety, and trouble that a true teacher feels. They cannot know this: that when he hears of any student of his distinguishing himself he feels v personal interest in that student, and takes almost as much praise, almost as much credit, aB if he himself had obtained a great prize. Now your teachers have great trouble with you, I have no doubt, as they have with all boys.—(Applause.) Boys like fun, and it would be a very strange school if the boys were not eometimes what is called bad. They would not have much life in them if it were not so.—(Applause.) What is often called the badness of boys generally arises among those who have most life, vitality, and physical health. But I would tell you that if you wish to repay your teachers for the trouble and care they have had, you can best repay them in this way : not only by working hard at the work you may be called upon to do hereafter—in working hard at your studies —but also by walking carefully in your life, and never doing anything that would bring discredit on them or on the school. If you do that I believe you will ba conferring a favour on your teachers—the highest favour they can ask ; for after all their name is bound up with your conduct, and their name is interwoven also with your success in life. Now, after your holidays I hope those of you who come back to schoo! will work even harder than they did last year, looking after their health at the same time; and that those leaving school, either going to work or to the University, will also work hard, and so carefully guard their conduct that they will never bring discredit on the school that brought them up, and never bring discredit on the teachers who took the trouble to teach them.—(Cheers.) The Rev. Dr Stuart announced that the holidays would close in February, and that the school would reopen on the lOth of that month in tha new buildings, when the pupils would find Dr Macdonald and a complete staff ready to welcome them. —(Loud applause.) He expressed the hope that the Premier would help the Board to get the Governor of the Colony to open the new High School. It was his (Dr Stuart's) intention to visit the Premier at his office some morning, when he was in bis very best temper, to engage him to do his utmost to get his Excellency to assist in opening with cclal that handsome building—the finest temple erected to education in New Zealand.

GIRLS' HIGH SCHOOL,

Too breaking-up of the Girls' High School for tha Christmas holidays and the annual distribution of prizes took place on Dec. 19, in the presence of a very large number of spnetators. The hall of tho High School was crowded to excess, the visitors being principally ladies, a number of whom were ex-High School pupils. Among the gentlemen present were tha Hou. the Premier, the Hou. W. H. Reynolds, Professor Shand, Mr A. H. Ross, M.H.R., Mr W. D. Stewart, M.H.R., Mr K. Ramsay, and the Rev. W. Will. Mr James Macandrew, M.H.R., presented the priaes, and in doing so said: I have just had time to glance over the annual report, and I rejoice to see that the progress of the school is everything that I anticipated, and more, indeed. The otner day, thinking of the time when this school was first propounded, I looked back to what was said by myself in opening the Provincial Council in 1869, and I will read to you the few words said on tbat occasion bearing upon the subject. I may say beforehand that one of my principal reasons in coming here to day was to witness the progress that ha 3 been made by an institution which was founded by tho Provincial Council of Otago, of which I thoa had the honour to be the head, some U or 15 years ago. (The Chairman having read an extract from his opening address to the Provincial Council in 1809, went on to say :) Tbo Provincial Council, I think, on the motion of Mr J. L. Gillies, recommended that a Royal Commission should ba appointed to consider the subject — not a Colonial Royal Commission, but a Provincial Royal Commission. We have had lota of Colonial Royal Commissions, costing I do not know how many tens of thousands, and, as a rule, all have ended in smoke, Plowever, this Com

missien cost nothing, and it performed its work most royally. One of the results, at all events, is that here we are today, and I trust that here those who may succeed us will continue to be on similar occasions to , f he end of the chaper, at any rate down to the oud oLthe present dispensation. The school waa opened early in 187 L, and the number on the roll then was from 70 to 80. The number at prosent on Iho roll, I sac, is 212, bo that the school haa kept pace with the gradual growth and progrcsa of the conlmuuity, and this will ba the more apparent when it is considered that in IS7I there was un other public institution of tua kiud in New Zealand, so that pupils came from various quarters to this school. Subsequently many other localities took a leaf out of our book, and I am nlad to say it is not the only school of ita kind in the Colony. Perhaps at this point it might be pardonable if we were to indulge in a small modicum of what the late Anthony Trollope would call " blowing." When you look to the past, I think it is a matter of which we have great reason to be proud that Otago, bo long as it constituted a distinct political entity, was always in the van—always in the front place—as regards public education and many other things besides. Since the province ha? got attached to the leading • strings of Centralism, I fear that it has not taken the lead which it was wont to do either in this o* many other matters. However, that is perhaps trenching a little on forbidden ground, and therefore it is better not to pursue that. I find that since the commencement of this school there have been over a thousand pupils who havo received instruction here. That is apart from the 212 to which I have just alluded. It would be very interesting if we could know to what extent the training of these thousand ex-pupils here has resulted for good or ill upon the body politic in_ their various characters of daughters, sisters, wives, and mothers. I hope and thoroughly believe that the influence has been very greatly for good. Of course, what that influence may be m future it is impoßsible for us to form any calculation of, reaching down as it will do iuto what Carlyle would term " the Eternities." The so - called lords of creation are somewhat prone to aa3ume that upon them depends chiefly the character and destinies of the future. I believe that the other side of the house has got a great deal more to do with these than the lords of creation, and I believe myself that just in proportion to the development and spread of moral culture of women will be.the measure of the social reform and the political position of the mass of th 6 people—be they high, be they low, be they rich, or be they poor.—(Cheers.) It is impossible to calculate the beneficial results which have flowed from the education which has been imparted, and I hope will be_ imparted, both here and in many other similar institutions throughout the Colony—always assuming, of course, that that education takes cognisance of the heart as well as the head: perhaps I might say especially of the heart, inasmuch as we know that out of the heart proceed the issueß of life. In talking of the head and heart we might also have alluded to the hand. I have long thought that there is_ a great want of what may be termed technical education for our girls; and although I know it is a very difficult question, yet I hope that the Board of Governors may yet see their way to devise some means or other whereby pupils attending school may have practical instruction in a variety of subjects—such, for example, as the art of cookery, the baking of your own bread, the making of your own butter, and so on. There is not the slightest doubt that that is a want in our secondary schools. I regret to see that there is a disposition in some parts of the Colony to divert the endowments from the secondary, to the primary schools. Even already action has been taken in that direction in the House of Representatives. I sincerely hope—and I trust the people of Otago will bear me out in that hope, and will take the necessary action —I hope that New Zealand will never be so far forgetful of what is due to itself as to sanction any such proposal. Nothing could ba more detrimental to the future interests of this young nation. It is very gratifying to know as regards this High School for girls that it does not draw very much upon any endowment for its support. I have not had occasion to notice for a year or two how its finances stand, but I remember being struck some time ago by the fact that the school fees approach very nearly to the annual cost of the school. I think there is a little difference, but it is not worth speaking about. I only wish, my friends, that we could say the same with regard to the primary schools. I may say that one of the reasons why I have been opposed to the Education Act is that it abolished the school fees, and I am perfectly certain, as far as Otago is concerned, that when we had the system of school fees education was just as universal as it ia now; and I am absolutely certain that it was infinitely more prized and highly appreciated than it is now. I desire on my own behalf, and on behalf, I am sure, of everybody here, to recognise how much we are indebted to the late principal, and to those who have been associated with her as teachers, for the success of the school in the past. It is to a very great extent to the management of Mrs Burn and to her enthusiastic devotion and unwearied attentisn to the duties devalving upon her that we may attribute the success of this school in the past, and Isincerely hope that in the future it will continue to be under the influence of a Bimilar principal. I will ju3t say one word_ more, especiallyto our young friends, and it isto impress upon them the great privilege which the possession of an institution like this implies. I hope and trust that every one of them will make the most ef this privilege, and I hope, moreover, that while doing their utmost to acquire all the gifts and graces which may be acquired here, that they will not forget the greatest of all graces—namely, the grace of God in the heart. My young friends, sermonising is Bomewhat out of my line, but at the same time perhaps it will not be out of place on this occasion for me, as an old man—and I am getting a pretty old man now—to say to you that the greatest of all ornaments by which you can be adorned is the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit. ' I believe this is quite compatible with the cheerfulness and elasticity which are in themselves so admirable; but I repeat again that the greatest ornament, the greatest of womanly ornamentß, I take to be that meek and quiet spirit referred to in that grand old Book which has done more than all besides to improve and alleviate the condition of women, and which, moreover, has done more than all besides to raiße the British Empire to that proud position which it now occupies among the nations of the earth. . I must say that to my mind it is very sad to contemplate that the knowledge of this Book is going out of fashion. I suppose there is very little or no knowledge of it amongst a great^proportion of the youth of this young Colony. I sincerely hope that that may not bo said of any here, and that you will make this grand old Book the mind of your counsels and the guide of your right hand; and if so, in the language of the Book itself, "When thou goest it Bhall lead thee, when thou sleepeßt it shall keep thee, and when thou walkest it shall talk with thee." We will now procßed to distribute the prizes. The Chairman then distributed the prizas in accordance with the prize-list. Professor Mainwaring Brown presented the prize given by the Shakespeare Association, and Mrs Burn the prize awarded by the ex-duces of the Girls' High School. The annual report and prize-list of this school were aB follow: —

The school roll of the session just closed chows an eniolmentof 212 pupils. Tho number for each quarter is as follows: 191, 190, 182, 170—114 in the upper BCiiool, 98 in the lower. During tha pecond quarter, from sickness and other causes, several pupils who entered in February were absent; these, with one exception, returned tha third Quarter. The mathematical claisea have this year been placed entirely in Miss M'Kean'a hand?. The appointment of a teacher for this department of school work is decidedly to iti advantage. During the present session gymnastic classes have been conducted moat aucjess'ully by Mr Hanna All the pupils attend these classes with the exception of come nine or 10, who ara absent by doctor's orders. Tho beneficial effect of this systematic physical training is very noticeable in the improved physique of the girls. A large numb'r of girls, however, I regret to Bay, have not been able to take full advantage of theae classes, because of an objection they have to wear the dress necessary fir the complete course. I trust this objection will be overcome, as a proper gjminstic drees fa absolutely necassary in order to got the full advantage of the exercise. There are 10 provincial sch lira in school this year—nine senior and one junior—and one girl who made 50 per cent, of marks »t the scholarship examination. All these girls have given me Fatiafaction, both as to diligence in study and good conduct. Miss Forbes, who went up from the school last year to the New Ze;lind University junior scholarship examination, was successful in obtaining one with a very favourable place in the list of compatitors. It has been with great difficulty and with much persuasion that I hava prevailed upon one or two girls to go forward to these examinations. Miss Steal was the first, in 1832, Miss Forbes followed her in 1883, and both were successful. Thiß year I have sent up three candidates, and await the result of the comp3tition with some amount of anxiety.

In the honour-list of the Otago University this year Miss Steel id placsd second-c:ass in the senior ma*hematics, second-class senior Latin, and second-class junior mcn'al science. Miss Forbes iB placed fl'Stclass in junior mathematics, second prize ; flrat-olass in junior Latin, prize; first-class junior and senior practical chemistry. Last year I mentioned the formation of the " High School Dux Association," and the " Ex-High School Girls' C!ub." The first now numbers 16 members, who have given their prize this year for English compasition. This prize has been decided by threo separate competitions, and ha? been won by Mi-s I. M'Landress. The Club have comploted the first .year of their existence, and number 70 members. They held monthly meetiugs during the year. The members have become acquainted with each other, and look forward to maktner the association both plea«ant and profitable. The Clib voted a scholarship, value £8 10a, to the third form in the tchool, and it has been won by Miss E. GHMsoo.

I have givea a scholarship, value £10, to the V lorm, which his been won by Miss Barbara Watt. The scholarships are tenable at the Girla' High School f.r one year. In addi ion to the medals and books veted by the Board of Governors, many friends have renewed their gifts to the schoo'. Moots Brown, Fwing, and Co. have a^ain given their silv. r medal for excellence in English, arithrneiic, and geography. The Shakespoaru Club have rene *od their prize for i cadintr. Mra Stout, Mrs Haynes, Mrs Maadonald, Mrs fßttlau, Misj Dalrymplo, Dr Stuart, llr Macdonald, Mr W D Stewart Mr A Wilson, Mr G M Thomson, Dr BUlju, Mr W.lki ■, Mr Livingston, and Messrs Wise, Caliiu, and Co. have each sent prize". The following is the prize-list:— LOWBR SCHOOL Form I.—Dux, Mibel Kempthorne; 2nd, Schwanhi'de Bltlau; 3rd, Bdith «haud; 4th (Mbs Douglas' prize), Nora Barron. Writing: Cecilia Mark? Form ll.—Duces, Mibel Salmond and Elizabeth Andtraon (Equal) ; 2nd, Je;siu N. Barr; Brd, Fiorouce Baird, Hva Orkney, and Helen Copland (equil). Mia) Title's prize for diligence and attention: Helen M'.-itill. Drawing: Elizabeth Anderson. Writing: Ho3uma Maraden. Form lll.—Dux (Board of Governors.' silver tncdnl), Eilie GUkis-in; 2nH. .Scrah Gilkison ; 3rd, Catherine Barr. Mental arithmetic (Mies Gillies' prize): Ist, Hlizibeth Price ; ami, Ka'e Jlirtin. Drawing : Ellen Wilson. Writing: Gwendoline Roberts. UPPBB SCHOOL. Form IV. - Dux, Helen 0 Leary; 2nd. Ellen StaI tham: Sid, Anna il'Ndll. French (M. Murefa diviEion): Ist, Annie Mieon. French (Miaa Gillies'division) : Ist, Emma Beckingsale. (Drawing (Mr Button's prize), Holcn G.ljeary.

Form V (Lower).-Dux (Messrs Wtso, Caffla, and Co.'a prize), Elizib;th Waters; 2nd, Florence A Mulr; 3rd, tlelesa Baxter. French (M M'ltot's division), Florence A Muir. Fronch (Misu Gi'.lios' division), May L Catlin. Botany (Mr Tliomson's prize), Eliziboth Wutora. Dnw ng, Annio Hartley. Form V (Upp r) Dux (Messrs Wiao, Caffln, and Co.'s prze), Sylvia Gilloid; mi, Cliriatine Binnie, 3M, Lillie U icrae. Fronch, Sylvia GHo d. ChemUtfV (Mr I'hoinson'a ptizi), Sylvia G llofd. Writing (Mr Llvina-Htoii'H prlzj), E nily'AsH. KVrm VI —2nd prize ullr Wilklo's prize.*, Barbara Mo11!eo,i ; 3ri rrize, Jessie Hichet.

SPECIAL PIUSES. Litln. D; mitaa'a senior elas3 (Or Micdonalda ptizo): l»e.. Barbavn Mo iism (D.- Start's priz-), «aib«ra Watt, i-qu^l. Latin —Dr Bu'au'3 juni'ir class: Christine Unin-'o. Dr BUlau'B special priza for diigonoi) anJ uttentioa. Ada Hawiain and Violet Tunon. M.-a blllau's special piiza for steady progress, Best reador in B'jho-il (Stakoipcaro Ciub'd prize), Ellu Farnie ; neconl belt reader in ichool (Dr Stuart's prlzu), Miry Hudson. Dux Association priza for Kng i3h composi.ion, Isab)lla Mi.andrcßS. Mrs Burn'd Piiies (or Engliah.Comno3ltlon.—Form V, Kva S^uith ; Lower V, Floteneo JMr ; IV, Helen Liary; 111, Cjtherino B.«r; 11, Flore.ice Balrd ; I Ecawanhilde Ktllau. Mi 33 Dalryuiples "Victoria" priz33 for Diligence Ordur, and Punctuality Upp?r School, Elizabeth fiainforth ; Lowor School, Jane Chlaholm .-teady Work throughout the Year—Ada Mactae and Elizabeth Cameron. Xeediowork (Mrs H»ynoV prizjs).—Beat in Upper School, Helen Leary; best in Lower School, isiatol Kempthorno; Fecond best in Lo^er School, Florence Lowi3. Mrs Matdonald'd prize, Mary Glendining. Mrs Burn'« ticholarßhip.—Form V : Barbara Watt. , Kx-High Sihool Girls' Club. - Scholarship, Form III: Elite Uilul on. English dux (Me Wilaoa'B prize).-Barbara Molieon. French dux (Mr W. Downie Stewart's pnze).I.abeiU MXandress. Mathematical dux (Mrs Stoat's prize).—lsabella M'Landress. Mes3ts Brown, Ewing, and Co.'s sliver moJal for excellence in Englih, arithmetic, and geography.Bartaia Moilison. Dux o' school (Board of Governor.!1 g:ld medal).— laanel!a M'Landicsa. Music Prizes.-Mrs White's prizes: lat. May Kva and Alice W'lion (eq'ial); 2nd. Mibel Alves; extra prize (p oieoted by Mr G R West). Nolly Scoular ; extra p^izo (presented by Messrs Chas Begg and Co.), Mabel Alvei. Mrs Spooner's piizoa (pteientei by •Messrs Chirlea Bogg nnd Co.): lat, Annie Mason and Jane Thomson (equal) ; 2nd, Edith M'Kcil. CERTIFICATES CF MERIT. Form I. Ciast work throughout ths year: Nora Barron, Mirgaret Black, Edith Miore, May Jacob 3. Form 11. - Cla*s wnrk throujbout tho year: Mary C Heron, Helen C M'Heill, Thyra Arthur. Form HI. Cliss work throughout the year: Amy Weldcn, Jane Chlsholm, Ada Macrae, Jano Henderson. Form IV.—Class work throughout the year: Emma Beckingoale, Annie Mason, Helen L-n^ford Form V.—Lower: Class wcr!c throughout the year, Anna Copland, Elizabeth Bainforth, and Emma Riinforth. English, French, bhtory, and geography, Grace,lrwin Ensriiab, French, mathematic?, Isabella M-stheson. English a d French, Ger.ru.ie Williams. F^rm V —Uppsr : Class wo k throughout the year, Ada Hoa'itson, liarbira Watt, Kalherine Begg. Edith. Pearc3. History and geography, Fmila M-joro. Mathematic: and science. Jessie Rutherford. Latin, Sylvia Girlord, Viole'. Tutton, Margaret Comrie. Form VI.-ISngliEh, French, Latin, and hiatory, Katherine Mojs. Knjlish and German, Nellie M OarnpbeU. .English aud mathematic3, Ella Faroia.

DOMINICAN CONVENT HIGH SCHOOL.

The distribution of prizes to the young lady pupils attending this school was made on the 17th by Bishop Moran. All the clergy of tho Dunedin mission and the Dominican Nuns were present, but no invitations to the usual musical and elocutionary entertainment were issued, as the time necessary for preparation could not be spared. The pupils, however, gave iv very pbssing exhibition of their skill in the rendering of the following programme: Vocal chorus, " Summer Fancies " ; juvenile performance, " The Quarrel of the Flowers " ; pianoforte solo, " Abd el Kadir" ( Wilkenhaus); vocal duet, "O'er the hill" (Glover); duet in D (Diabelli); song, "Ruth" (Misß Davis); German recitation, " Monolog aus der Jungfrau yon Orleans " (Schiller); pianoforte solo, "Dinorah" (Kuhe); vocal solo, "Gates of the West" (0. Lowthian); pianoforte solo, " Home " (Jungman); vocal solo, " Jessie'B Dream" (Blockley); overture, "Nozze di Figaro " (Mozart); chorus, " Far away " (Miss Lindsay); pianoforte solo, "Spinnlied" (F. Litolff); song, " Come back to Erin " (Claribel); vocal duet, " Home, no home without thee " (Bishop); French recitation, "Romance" (Chateaubriand); vocal solo, "Claansing Fires" (V. Gabriel); pianoforte solo, " Etude de Concert "; terzetto choro, "II sogero del marineri" ; pianoforte solo, " Theme Allemand " (Leybach); vocal solo, "Floating on the wind" (Glover); overture, "Jean de Paris" (Boiledieu); chorus, "Bethlehem" (Gounod). Daring the afternoon many visitors admired the exhibits of mapping, writing, water-colour and oil paintings, embroidery and lacework, artificial flowers, &c. which had been executed by the pupils, and for which the Convent enjoys a well-earned reputation. After presenting the prizes, Bishop Moran said he had been present at some of the examinations, and.was very woll pleased with what he had seen and heard. The arithmetic was very good, and he was more than pleased with the dictation. In other subjects he noticed a great improvement. What the Lady Superior said accounted for this. No one idled during the year, though some should have done better than they did. Father Walsh was present at all the examinations, and his report is most satisfactory. He thanked the pupils for the treat of music and singing which they had jast now enjoyed, and dismissed the school till the 2Sth January. He said, in conclusion, he was very much pleased with the examinations and the conduct of the pupils during the year.

The following is the prize-list:—

Knglish Prizes.—Filth class: First prize, Miss Banning; second, Miss Conway; third. Miss Harding. Prize, transcription of exerciso3, Miss Harding. Fourth class: Firat prize, Miss Hegarty; second, Hiss X Mills. Prize, competition, Misaea Williamson, Aldridge, and Moriseon. Third class: Firs* prize, Mlß»ei Martin and Woods; Becond, Sl'sacß Hall, Helen and Muriel Margetts. Prizo, transcription, Misse3 Martin, Woods, Sheeny, Helen and Muriel Margetts Sec?na class : First prizo, Miss Kathleen O'Meauher; second, Hiss C Meanah. Prize, transcription, Misses D Margetts, Meonaa, and M'Grath. Firßt class: First prize, MiS3 X Daly; second, Miss L Mullins. Arithmetic Prizes.-Fourth clacs: Prize, Mhses Hegarty and Conway. Third class: Prize, Miss Harming. Second class: Missea H and Muriel Margetts, o'Measher. and L Roberts. First claea: Prize, Misses D Margetts and Meenan. French Prize3.-—Fourth class: Mi3ses Conway and Lees. Ihird class: Mias Maning. Seco-.d ciass: MisaosK O'Meagher, L Roberts, W Ptrrin, and A Hall Needlework,—Plain work: Fir6t prize, Misse3 M Harding and Can oi- ; second, Mies V Perrin. Fancy work : tirst prize, Miss Carroll; sscoml JFssea Leas and Hegarty. Lace work: Prizo, Misses Harding and Margetts. Music—lnstrume:tal: First priza, Misses Harming, WiUhnison, and Moloney ; second, Misses Haiding, Conway. and Martin; third, Mien E Lcary ourth, Miss W Perrin. Vocal : Prize, Misses Conwa and Murphy. ' Writing.—First prizo, Miss E Wocd*; second, Miaaos M'Grath acd L Rooerts. Euclid —Pr.'zs, M>s-e3 Harding and Harming.

Mapping, first prize, Misses Htgarty, Hinnitur, Lee*, F auii M Harding; second, Misses Muriel, H, and M Margetts, and F Roberta. Painting.—Misa Howell. Use of Globes. —Prize, MiS3 Harding. Reeular Attendance.—Prize, Mi6Sea Mirtin, Mills, and Margetts. Application an-l Grneral liaprovement. — Prize, Misses Carro'.l, Robarts, fc'agan, D and M Howell. Flower making. — Prize: Misses Cameron aud Howell. Conduct.—First prize: M'saea Sheedy, Murphy, Banning, Hardin? Kitchie, Haggle, Hegarty, Mill', MargeitSjMsenan, Martin, and Woods. Second prize: Miaees Monkman, Fa.'an and l'aly. Djmeßtio Duties.—Prize : Miasea M Harding, Hxnniog, Rober'B, and Haggle. older. -Prize: Misses Marietta, Harding, M'Giath. Coawav, Hegarty, Carr. 11, Maitin, Woods, and Daly. Politeness.-Prize: Mieeea Marzetts and Martin. Chrittian Docsrine.—(Boarders) Prizs: Misses Murphy and Harming. Scripture History.-P/Ize: Miss Harding. Christian Doo'rlnc—(Day pupils) First prize: Misses Conway, Carroll. Reany, Mirtin, and Woods. Second priza : Misses Mills, Meenan, Morrison, Daly, Mockuuin, culling, Hall, Cintwell, Sheedy, Williamson, and Fagan Scripturo History.—Prizo : Misses Martin, Conway, and Cirroll. * NORMAL SCHOOL. The annual break-up and distribution of prizes took place at the Normal School without much ceremony, none of the general public being present. The prizes were distributed by Mr Fitzgerald, the rector. The following is the prize-list : — CLASS CERTIPICAIES. Standard VII.—A DivUioa (Mr T C Farnio, M.A.): Fivst clos3—Edith Cook (dux of school), Mary Jane Frasor, Elizabeth Watson. B DiviFion (Mr S P Seymour, a-sUted hy Mr J E Gunn) -Senior : First class, Elizabeth J Gunn (dux), Edith Hatton ; second class, Jamc3 Wataon. Junior: Daniel Waters (dux); second class, Bobert Jaye. Standard Vl.-(Mr T C Farnle. M.A..): First classJeasie Durie (dux), Ellen Strang, Masrgie Taylor, Bella GlendiGing, Agnea /.llan, Amy Roaeby, Annie Fitzgerald. Second clasa : Barbara M'Leod, Harriet Sandilands, Ruth Sorgel, Kmnu M'Carthy. Standard V. (Misa Stevens).-First c.ass : Isabella Siedeberg (dux), Kmily Sledeberjr, Annie Loudon, CoDatance Jo es, Ada Hopcrafft, Gabriella Graham, Suean Turnbull, James Christie, Anna Gre3ham, Bertie Brodie, George Christie, Hugh Trainer, Harriet King Margaret Ford. Second class : Jauics Sean'aa. Fourth Standard (Sir C R Smith).—Fir6t class: William Durie (dux), Robert Cuthbertson, Frederick Stiang, W R Smith, James Cameron, Kalph J Williams, George Sitnpsou, James Ramsay, Arthur Govan, Sydney Ro&eby, Henry Allen, Fred Hanson, James Peden, Albert Beissel, Henry Otto. Sscond class : William Pedon, Sydney Muir, Charles Rameay, John Thomson. Standard IV (Mr H M'lnt7ro).-First tfaaa: Agnes Montgomery (dux), Jeannio M'Lean, Conatanco MAdam, Madge Durie, Grace Forbes, Nellie Davys. Second clasa: Abigail Shaw, David Baird, May Fothcringham, Caroline Carr. Standard 111 (Misa Dow).— Piret clasi: Amy Barclay (dux), Jmet Hopcraft, Maty Eacott, Margarot Bare, Annie Wincfleld, Alico Wurr, Matilda Lo Keong, Lillian Kavioaon. Second class: Robina Bonnet, Annie Clouston. Standard 111 (Mr J A Fitzgerald)— First class: Alexander Allan, Horace Hether, George Lockhart, Robert Chri3tle, John M'Dormid, James M'Gill, Sinclair Podon, Henry Bransgrove. Second class: William Kncx, William Chrlatlo. Standard II (Mr C R Smith).—First class: Mabel Forbes, laroline Moss, Ethel Rclth, A M'Lean, Bella Reid Florence Bresrly, Fanny Ecoular, lB»bella Stonebridtro, Clor* Wilson, Mary Wilaoa, Maggie Whittut, Mary Yates, Charlotte Stonebridgo, John Baird James Durie, Francis Moss, Walter Smith. Second clasa: R GreemUde, Miry Whittet, Percy Standard II (Mis) Livingstone).—Firßt class: Eva Taylor. Ada Uox, Edmund Roeoay, Esmond Murison, Nora M'Donald.

First-class certificates lor attendance were given to 25 girls and 28 boys ; second-class certificates to 23 girls and 22 boys. In the Model School two boys and three girls received first-claBS certificates ; and three boys and one girl obtained sacond-class certificates, WILLIAM STREET SCHOOL. The prizes at thia school were distributed by the Chairman of the Committee (Mr G. P. Farquhar). Dr Brown, Messrs Isaac and Tomliuaon, aud several others were present; and the very small and inconvenient schoolroom was overcrowded; Special prizes were given by Mr and Mrs Farqubtir (silver medals for the most popular boy and girl), and by Messrs Isa;io, and Mollison, Duthie, and Co. The following is the prizs-list :— Infants' Koora.—Fitst division R<na\ Reader: Sydney Harris ami JJ S9ie Bromner, 1; Sherwood Toniliusou and Nelllo Moore, 2; Georjjina Carrighan, 3 Second division: Harris Morris aud Agnca Biud,

1 ; Qaorge Wallace and Chriatinn Clark, 3. Third division : Robert Jenkins and Emma Oill. 1; John MLiOd and Auneg Churohlll, 2 ; Nellie InUel!, 8. SoamHrdl (Mister Hislop's clft'i). Fir»t division: Kate Wilkins, 1; G:ange Klrkcaldv, 2. Eecoid division: Jaha Mewart, 1; Willie Bohi, 2. Miss Davios' cv s First division: Maigjret Howe?, 1; J.me M'Naughton, 2; Willum Fieuiimr, 3 Seoi d divi iou: Grajo Twiaamo, 1; William Tomliuson, 2, Mracailalte.-S

Ktandird II (Mivs Di!e).-Firat dlvialoa: Wil-hm Davies, 1; Ohivlo ts H bora-t, 2; J:hn Warrington, 3. Sscona dtv siun: Alice Cnm;ib^li, l; John Ure»ham, 2; .loan Loan aud Jthu Boas (oqaal). 3. Standard 111 (ilr L'ue) —Fitss uu'iaion : Gorald Shi ptiard, I; Harriet Kiuiboll, 2; John Jenkins, 3. second dlviaio .: iimrai Lo Bran, I; Lewis Morris, 2 ; Mittna Si Ind->o and .-llizibjh Wjlla o (eg lal), 3. Standard IV" (M 133 Thorns ,11). — Firjt ai iaion : J.*m.s Taylor, 1; Alfred Ho ige and Willie MatbeßOn (equalj 2 ; i.aura Dickso ■■", 3. ccooud d vision ; Annie Mathusou, 1; Jessie Napier, 2 ; Krnest Davios, 3 Montal arithmelie prize : Wiliie Mitheson, 1; trnest Duvieg, 2.

Standard V (Mr J W Smith).—Uppor division : Bella Coopor, 1; Jlibol ii'Oorinott, 2; itabfl Stabb and George Proctur (oiiu^l) 3 Lower dlvl ion: Laura Simmons, 1 ; Flurry Hanoel, 2. Mental arithmetic prize: Archie Wallace. Standard V («r W H'slop) —Hattle Burn. 1: Bessu Hiy aud George Smyta (equal), 2 ; Minnia P»tteraan, 3. Mental Arithmetic: Gergeamy til. P.isaed Sixth Standard: Alice.P-rsyih(duxof BCliool), 1; Margaret Smyth and Belli Blake y (equal), 2. Special prizes: Two silver medals (presented by Mr G P Farquhar to the most popular hoy and t^lrl leaviug the school) were awarde.l to W S M'Col urn and Alice Foreyth. DrM : W bhtphird, 1; Jotn B.be.ts and

TV Ai-aeath, 2. Sewing jjriai: S'.andard VI, i ondla Mr.r.in; V, Edith D.ile; 1/, Isa ella D.;m,iat-r; IK, Ani.ia Ja'Aulay ; 11, ftlica Guh >n>.

ARTHUR STREET SCHOOL.

At the breaking-up ceremony at thia school on Deoumbor 12, the building was crowdod with the pupils and thair parents and friends. Tho following members of the Oommittee were present: Messrs A, Butt, J. A. Barr, B. Ewing, H. Crawford, J. Jolly, juu., and J. J. Macgregor. The R -.v. Masars Ouuiior, J. Bjrry, and MUCenzia liibson attended and assisted in ths distribution of prize 3, which wad conducted in thraa rooms simultaneously. These gentlemen and several of the Committee gave short addresses, oad there was sumo very creditable siueing aud reciting oa the part oi the children. Betoro the gathering dispersed, the head master, Air Barrett, on behalf of the pupils of Mr Ohapmaus class, handed that gentleman a very handsome photograph album aa a mark oi their regard, Tho following is the prize-list:—

Standard 1 (Miss Montgomery and Mr Gray). - Class A—BJJB: Jno Kiugbtm, I; Harold urki.isy, 2. Gir.s : Alabel B aiUi,vaite, 1; Be.ia Xeiil, 2 C asi B -Buys: Alex Wakor, 1; Jas Keddiu, 2. Uins : Maggie Wa-uock. 1; Jliuuie Thomson, 2. Saving prizj, U:\ oi-ujuuin. btancUrd II (Sites C Miller and MisH II Bolt).Bojs :Wm vlo..re, 1 : GeJ M-irgeita, 2. Girln: Linda Fenwick, 1J Annie M'jlorrau, v. M.-ntal a ichuutic: Ernes, XiiO.nt!, Annie M'ilotran. Sewing: Agues Paisley. Standard lit (Sir G 1> Bra.k, MA., and Miss D. t awrekce; - Boys: l-'u.C-in MatoG ; on, I; Aithur Fountain, 2; Ueortto Ihoms in, 3 Girls: Jeauie Bain, 1; Anna Wiehait, 2 ; ->niy Seager, 3. Mental arithmetic : Jumes i'ritcha.d, Jane liaiu. Sewing : Ktte Anderson.

fctaiidar.i ill (Mr R (Jowan and Mr J M Boa'tio) — General msiis: Koys-Williaai Sewa.t/1; Charles Harris,?. Girls-Jeim.do Jltlville, 1 ; fcUian Eji'lea, 2. Menta! arithmetic : William Steara.t, Berth t Campb 11- Seeing : Jeauie Milville SSuudard IV. Ueiier.il ru^rks : Boyi—MfrJd Kiavig, 1 ; Uimr o* Coote, 2 Girls Ma y Frederic, I ; Uudio il'L^od, 2. Memal arithuieti:: Ihonuu Siunders, Mjij" S'rederic. Scwiag : Undie Mi.cod. Standard IV (Mr t J M'Grejior) Class I'riz-ja: Boys Fredk L:ggius, 1; Uobors Brawn, 2 ; Eobt B^skott, 3. Girls—Mary Wil Unison, 1; K.tta Coupir, 2; Jane Miller, 3. Mental nritjuneti-:: Win Bo t, Jaue Miller Map drawing: Robert Mcikle, Ikv.e Sutherland. Sewing: Kate Sutherland. Re.iraii n: Harriet Pettic.' standard V. - Boys -Philip Mlrams, 1; Harold Churwn, 2. Girls—Mary Robertson, 1; Bas-ie West, 2. Sewing : Janet Melville. Mental arithmetic: Freu Baron. Standard VI (Upper).—Dux cf .echojl, Jenima Brown; second prize, Heury Webb. Sewing: isibe'U Kinvi?. Mental arithmetic : Alice Biron. Standard VI (Lower) —Boys-Aiex Begg, 1; Alfred Henney, 2. Gir:s—Mabol Hlxsou, 1; Kate GddiinW, 2. Sewing: Kate Gojdsmid. Mental arithmetic: Archie Smith. SPECIAL PBKiBS. These were contributed as follows :—The Hon. R Stout, silver medal; Mr A Brut, silver pencil-case and gold pen ; Mr R Ewing, silver medal; MrH Crawford, silver medal; Mr J A Barr, writing-desk ; Mr Taylor, writing-desk ; Mr J Jolly, jun., silver pencil-civse ; Mr Gilchrist, writing - case; Mrs Gilchrist, albums, woolwork, and books. Books were also given by Mrs Nixson, Mr Couston, Mrs Gill, Mrs Sparrow, Mrs Montgomery, Miss M'Neil, Miss Miller, Mr Barrett, Mr Ohapman, Mr Eyre, and Mr Mendelsohn. They were awarded as follows :— Standard I.—General improvement: Stuitt Dillas, Mary Faulkner. Mentil arithmetic: Mabol Braithwaite, Alexundor Walker. Guod coodjet: Gotiliet H Newman, George Fennick, Annie Watson, Roberta Ferguson. Standard II —Geography: William Sloore, tinda Fenwick, t£thel Weldon. Writiog: Daniel Campbell Spelling : Lotiie Meyer. Improvement: Fred M'Neil, Barbara Nelson. standard 111. —Improvement: Fred Mouat, May M'Donald. Heading: Alexander Williamson. Geography; Sheddan Brugh, Kate Dowle. Geography (upper): Frank Dawjon, Isabella Bell h;r.ndaid IV.—General improvement: Jamea Young, Mary [Morrison. Geography: James Dickie, Mary Wood. Standard V.—Writing : D'Arcy Haggict. Mapping: Alice Br.rr. Reading: Polly Gilcbrist Standard VI —English praminar: Jemima Brown. Writing : David Burt, 1; Frank Wills, 2. Drawing: Emily Brown. standard VI (Upper).— Decimal arithmetic: Jemima Brown. E ..glisb composition : MibelNixaon. Elocution : Alexander M'Donald, 1; Alfnd Hanncy, 2. Mapping: John Low. Attendance Certificates.— First-class attendance certificates were granted to 22 boys- and 24 girls; second-class to 39 boys and 16 girls.

ALBANY STREET SCHOOL,

Tho pupils attending tho Albany street School were dispersed on December 12 for the Christmas holidays. The breaking-up was celebrated in the evening by a concert, which was held in the old Knox Church. The annual distribution of prizes afterwards took place. The following is the prize-list:—

Standard I.—Class I : James Cowan, 1 ; William Wails, 2. Jane Foster. 1; Annie Hjpe, 2 ; Ezna Hughes, 3. Class II : Thorn's Maclean, 1; Thomas Brenchley, 2. Janet Mowat, 1J Julia Cooney. 2 ; Nellie Mirams, 3. Class III: John Kiven, 1; Robert Hutton, 2. Mary Nicol, 1 ; Edith Berry, ?. Ext a : Herbert Findlay, Bertie Bennett. Senior : Jamas Kober, 1 : John M'Lean, 2. Maggie Murcott and Jeannie Brown (equal), 1; Lizzo North and Lucy Keefe (equal), 2 ; Minnie Eg?ers, 3; Lucy Fo3ter, 4. Standard II -John Hope, 1; John C Morris. 2 ; Williacn Thomson, 3. Annie M. Soward, 1 ;/Bella Gay, 2 ;.Mary Hull, 3. Lower : Gerald Mirams, 1; Thomas Hendry, 2 ; John Robb, 3. Nora Wood, 1 ; Louisa Skinner. 2 ; Fanny Jenkins, 3.

Standard 111 —First Hivision : Andrew Miller, 1; Willie Hope, 2 Lizzie Forsyth, 1 ; Annie M'Caren, 2. Extra : William Hammond and Robert Sutherland. Second diviaion : Robert Mathissn, 1 ; Frank Mirams, 2 ; Duvid Rogsr, 3. Ada Anderson, 1; Mary J Cowantond Jano Allea (equal), 2 ; Agnes Samson acd Sarah Robinson (equal), 3.

Standard IV.-First division: Robert Walls, 1; Reginald B.ay, 2; Hobort Power, 3 Gerlirudo Warren, 1; Lizzie Allen, 2; Rosie Dare, 3 Second division : Charles M'Lean, t; Thomas Wilson, 2; Daniel Paterson, 3. Alena Omand, 1; Elizabeth Mather, 2; Janet Richmond, 3.

Standard V.—Wiiliam James (Mr Court's prize), t; Charles Brodie, 2; Archibald Graham, 3. Jane M'Laimhlin, 1; Elizabeth liobb, 2; Annie M'Dougall, 3. Standard Vl.—Lower: Arthur Murison, 1; Walter Brundell, 2 ; Albert Johnstwne, 3; William treeeder, 4. Annie Berry, I; Eliz.beth Braid, 2; Jesßle Irvine, 3 ; Caroline Myall, 4. Upper Sixth: Frank Cannon (dux, Suhool.Committee's silver mcdulj, 1; Robert Davys (School Committee's prize), 2; John Duocan and David Tnomson (equal), 3. Koae Woolley (dus, School Committee's silver medal), 1; Annie Weitzel (School Committee's p.izo), 2; Agnes Findlay aud Barbara Anders™ (equal), 3; Annie ifatthewson and Isabella Campbell (equal), 4; Selina Tre3eder, 6.

Writing Prizes.—Standard I : Maty Junes and Robert Hay. Standard II: Nora Wood and Elizabeth Cborry. Star-dard III: Gorald Connor and Elizibeth Cowan. Standard IV: Robert Power, L'ly Lowry, and Gertrude Warren (equal), standard Vf : Annie Berry and Arthur Uurison. Standard V: Chtiatina M'Lean, 1; Walter Steele and Jane M'Laughlan, 2.

Mental Arithmetic—Standard II: Annio M Soward. Standard 111 (Brat division): Andrew Miller and Jessie Alexander; second division, Frank Mirams, 1; Agnes Beekman, 2. Standard IV: William Lloyd and Reginald Bray (equal) Gertrude Warren. Standard V : John Brown. Standard VI: Arthur Murison. Mapping. — Jeannie M'Donald, Mary Finlayson, Walter Brundell, Annie Mattheweon, Frank Cannon, David Thomson, Albert Jobnstone. Annie Berry, Isabella Campbell, Jane M'Laughlan, James M'Millan.

Sewing.—Standard I : Fanny. Austin, 1 ; Nellie Smith, 2. Standard II: Caroline Harrop, 1; Janet Anderson, 2. Standard III: Mary J Cowan. 1; Ada Anderson, 2 Standard IV (drat division): Lillie Lowry, 1; Rose Dare. 2:—(second diviaion): Jai.efi Ternent, 1 Standard V: Hannah Coombs?. Standard VI: Ai;nos Findlay. Singing.—Willie Power, Nellie Thomson, Thomas Thorneon, Alexander Robertson, Alexander Thomson, Lizzie Andcnon, L'zzio Mather, Maud G»y.

Recitation.—John Forsyth, Jane Spor.ow, Jane Allan, Agnes Beekmin, Annie Wettizol, Maggie Duncan, David Thornton, Robert Davys, Elijih Harrop, May Mohoney, Annie Martin, Ruth Marshnl1. Special prizes, presented by Mrs M'Lean and decided by vctosof pupil?.— Most popular bay, Willie Power; most popular trirl, Agnes Findlay. Latin prize : Ernest Bray. Gifts. —Messrs Mackerras, Robert Wilson, and Proctor kindly furnished the pupils of infant department with an abundant supply of lollies. Besides the silver medals and two other prizes given by the School Committee, special prizes were presented by Mr William Caldwell, Mr Louis Court, and Mrs M'Lean. Attendance certificates: First-class, 50; second-class, 54.

UNION STREET SCHOOL,

The distribution of prizes at the Union street School was made by the Rev, Dr Stuart and Mr W. D. Stewart, M.H.R. There was a large attendance) of ladies, and among the gentlemen present were the Rev. A. R. I"itchett, the Ray. Mr North, Messrs J. L. Gillies, M. Cohen, and J. Jackson". A number of recitations were given, competitions in read ing and arithmetic were held under the superintendence of the head master, Mr Stewart; and the children sang various songs in a very pleasing manner. The proceedings were of an interesting character, but were rather too long, although a number of songs and several readings that were on the programme were omitted. Tho school is a large one, and is numerously attended. On the school rolls there are 85S boys and 333 girls, while the average attendance has been no less than GOS, and 50 firstclasß and 60 second-class attendance certificates were distributed amongst the scholars when the prizes were given. The piizos were awarded as follows :— Standard VI, Upper (Ur Wnito, teacher).—Mary Alexander, 1. Special Prizes.—Routing : Senior - Jano Xu'in (presented by Mr WD Sutherland. Junnr—Esther Cohen (presented by Mr w 15Stewart, M U.R.) Arithmetic Unonul): John Gibson (presented by Mr W Wright). SUilhikc kliz* Mourati (prccentod b\' Mr J Wilkie) W.itlnif: B>y-M Pizey (pre B on:o:l by Mr J Jackcon). UM—Uiz-i Wright (presented by Mr J Jackson). Pcquol No 1. (Miss Uodeorc). Seccmd division: Milton B'.andcn md Jamea Kerso 'oquil), 1; Robott HopMtw, 2. Jlwy Mowal, and Fiorer.cu Peters, 1: Mary Siowart, Chra Strac;-.,Mi. Ma.gio Timlin, and Lilylli*ki<is. 2. gflloyal Boadar No. I.—John M'Koubnio. I; Goorfre Uyor and Andruw Glllios, 2. HO3O M'Laughlan, 1; Evelyn Mcock anl Lily Olaro, 2, Standard I (Ml» Alexandor). -Cecil Pattillo and Andrew Fraeor, 1 ; Ihomua Gallanoy, Harry Roberts, and Goori;c Comoll, 2. Bella Allan, Mary Alexander,

Algebra. - L Pavletich, 1; C Oolumb, 2. M -nsuraMon.—o Columh, 1; A Court, 2. Penmanship.—Senior (Mr N Smih'u): J Slatterv, 1; D Ilartnett, 2. Junior : W Woodd, 1; C Eagor, 2 Drawing —T M'Namara. Specla Prizes. Bost-flnishcd homi cxerc'se-biok • -•iml' r Mr WoodN vr'ze), A M llroy. Junior, J Ma?uiro Orti-,ni;raphy: Senhr (Mr Uaccdo'*). 1) !ur uctt, 1: FMosnan 2 Junior, J M-enan/l; 0 Ka-r t Mi ping: C Fottwli, 1; L P^vlolidi, -i. Rtcitition: E -h>dy, 1; T Lynch, 2. B! shop's Scholarship t:oriißc»to : T..ls certittoite w KMnted to ihoio who, in tho exvmnution for tho BUhou's Scholarship make not loi-a than 70 per cent, in at least four au'ijo^ts, of which arithui itio must be one The f.illo'ini? hoys btaiiud tho ncceaa'nv number of marts: 0 Cotnmb, A Court, ti Pa,vle-.ich, 1) Ilirt-i-oS', C FiMrel, uF.liver, 1 M'llroy, J olitUry, and W II .yilnn. lii ho .'a Soul whip— This gift of the Most Roc Or Mjran <iva aw r ej t > (Jhir!oj iJolumh Junior S.holtMtip (.■ortlflouto.— Thi< is given ti those who, in tho examination of the junior BCho!or. ahi», P'63 (get not leis tlnn .70 per cant.) in >.t inaat four subJo'Jis, of which arithmetic mv tbo o:'.e. TSefol'cwingbjyn sue^r-olfd :-J ii Mojnan. E SaeeJy, J C mnor, A O'Brien, J MaguirJ, H Griffon, 0 Meido, and W Rosaboth.m. Junior Scholarship.—Thii was awarded to John N Meenan. MIDDLE ROOM. Dux, silver medal (gift of Mr VV. H. M'Keiy): William Hdmonda. tto^ular Att;ndance: M Morrlsscy, 0 Plstor, William Edmonds, James Jew (all equal) Home Leoson-i (Christian doctrine, spelling, grammar, jjeoitraphy). First division: First (highest) classi-Tbo'mas Walsh, 1; P Deluhanty, 2. Second ibsi Wit iam Morkano, 1; George Hiydon, 2. Third clas3-M Francis, 1; P Ohelily, 2. Second division : First clais (Mr GartUnd's prize)—Oeorge Pearson, 1; H Mulins, 2 Socand olisj ihom»9 Connollan, 1; Putrick Hes-ian, 2. Third class Frank Holey, 1; John Wouds, 2. Fourth class ■ Gaorgo Rutherlord, 1 ; William Connor, 2 Home Kxeretios First dirislon: First class (Mr Migulre's prizai-Edward Riordan, 1 ; A M'iri'hy, 2 'OMiid cluSi—Joseph Maccdo, 1; Thomas White, 2. Third claa? P O'iSeilly, 1; M Francis, 2. Second division : Firßt e'.a'js &!oorgo Pearson, 1: John Taylor, 2. heemd c'as3-Patrick Hesiian, 1; Thomas Conne'.lw, 2 Thiid class-John Woods, 1; II Morrissey, 2 Fourth ciaES—James M'Donald, 1; John Harris, 2. Reading—First division: Mr Roche's prize—E Philp; A Murphy, 2. .Second division : First claS3— Jaß Kennedy, 1: Ger Leary, 2. Second class - John Harri3, t; Jas M'Donald, 2. Writing. F;rst division : Excellence, Mr Roche's priz-)—A Murphj'. Mark*—A Miles, 1; H Uallinan, 2, Second division : John Taylor, 1; John Fogarty, 2. Arithmetic—First division: Mr Smith's prize—Wm Edmonds, 1; A Miles, 2. Second division : C Pletor, 1; James Kennedy, 2 Mapping. j-A Murphy, 1; Jos Macedo, 2. Beat-flnisHed Exercise-book and Copy-book.—Mra Bunbur/s pr ze -A Mhirnby. Singing.—Frank Murphy, 1; A Murphy, 2. Drawing.-Mr Rocho'a pr'za—S Darragh, 1; A I Miles, 2. Reci'ation.-Frank Heley. JUNIOR ROOM. Christian D;c'rine.-First division: Arthur Hill, 1; James M'Donnell, 2 Second division: Thouvs M'Nab, 1; Thomas Hussey, 2. Reading.—F.rat division: Willie Corbett and Arthur Hall (equal). Secind division : Michael Fabey. Third division : Thimos Hu»sey. Spe'ling and Dictation.—Charlos Wi kine, 1; Henry Arithmetic. -First division: Willie Cotbbtt, 1; John Connor, 2 Second division: Willie KeitiLg Home Lossons.—Fiist division: John Connor. Secind division: WUie Idye. Third division: Edward Wilkins. Homo Exerciie.—Fir t division: Charles Wilkins, 1; W:ilio Cahill, 2. Second division: Jamei M'Cluekey, 1; Matthew Fox, 2.

Writing. First division: James M'Donnoll and Thomas Glen (equal). Second division: John FitzPatrick and Johu Bryant (equal). Regular Attendance—Paul Davics.

CAVERSHAM SCHOOL.

The annual breaking-up cerepiony in connection with Cavorsham School took place on Dec. 11. Mr Kutherford (chairman of the School Committee) presided, and presented the prizes to the successful pupils. In performing thia task he took the opportunity of complimenting the staff of teachers on the success that had attended thsir efforts during the past year. The following is the prizb-list:—

Advanced Cliss (sir Teanant's prizes).—James Cunn ngham, Clara Chitlmer. Standard VI-Geo-ge W Mitchell, 1; William Bragg, 2. Jeesis Patersoh and Kate Morrison (equal). Standard V. Samuel Geddln, X ; Robert Munro, 2. Agnes Mundie, 1; NeUi 1 Oo!o, 2. Standard IV.—Alexander Johnson, 1; William Drennaa, 2. Annie Robertson, 1; Jane Clark, 2 Special -Mariiarst Clark. Standard 111.-Fred Palmer, 1; Charles Gilloway, 2 Lizzie Hill, 1; Maggi3 Duguid, 2. Extra—Jane Gcirn.

Standard I.—William Mundio, I; Edward T Ba!eman, 2. Lizzia Patsrsou and Annio Renlree (equal). Extra—Masgte Henderson. Standard I -Senior Division: Charles Panting, 1; James Kussoll, 2 Klsio WHiams and Annie Yates (equal). Extra- Kate Bridgman. Standard I—Junior D vision: Robert Lawaon, 1; Alexander Bmner, 2. Mary Birron, 1; Sarah Westwood, 2. isfast ko:m. Royal Reader No. I.—Division I: George Leal and Bon Schofhld, 1; David Weatherstone, 2; Wesliy Covhrane, Andrew Allan, and Walter Menzids, 3. Mabel Broadfcot, 1; Alice Love and Fredda Wi.liani«, 2. Royal Reader No. I.—Division II: Gilbert M'Kinlay, 1; Alfred Julljan, 2. Ellen S. Lasting, 1; Mary U'Ktrrow and Mary Beeson, 2 Infant Reader : Jue JSicul, 1; Maggie M'Ewan, 2. fil'EClAfj I'iIIZES. Mr Todd's reading prizos.—Standard 11, Ma?y A. White; 111, Elspeth Mitebell; IV, Jessie MGregor; V, Evelyn Ufcwal I ; VJ, Emily Briggs. Mr Allen's writing prizi. Standard 11, Frank Clark; 111. Annie Smith; IV, Nettle Alexander; V, Netta Jonea; VI, Alexaudcr Rigour. Mr Rutherford's mental arithmetic prizes.- Standard 11, Wiliam Abel; 111, LucySteenson ; IV, Fredarick Butemeut and Agnes M'Lea-j (equal); V, Jonathan Emersco. Mr Erowne's exerclse-bcok prizee. — Nettie Alexander, 1; Rosa Bates and.Wm Williamson (equal), 2. Sewing prizes - Standard II Lizzia Patereon; extra prize, Jano Bridges. Ill: Elizi M'Lcnaan IV: R^sa B*tes, 1; Annla Robertson, 2. V: Agnes Alien, 1; Hannah Clegg, 2. VI: Annie Keonan, 1; Maggie Tennant, 2.

Good attendance certificates: First-class, 175; second class, 95.

MORNINGTON SCHOOL,

The annual distribution of prizes at the Momington School took place on the 13th Dacember. The class rooms were crowded with parents and friends of the children. The following is the prize-list :—

Standard V(f.~A division (Mr Kyle): Dax of the school, Elizsboth Gellatly, a yarded a silver medal preeested by Mr Ashton ; Gavina Liddoll, 2. B division ; Margaret Gellatly, 1; Frank Stephens, 2; Hannah Picrrepoitit, 3. Special prizes. •■ Latin : James Johnßtone. French: F,!izabeth Gellatly. Algebra: Gavin Liddell. Euclid : James Johnstune. Mental arithmetic: John M'Gulro. Writing: Hannah Pierrepoiat, 1; Eva Pajne, 2. Mapping: Hannah Pierrepoint. Standard VI (Mr Jtffery, assisted by Miss Rankin) — Boys: Ffed Hdatly, 1; Charlea Smith, 2; George Johnstone, 3 Girls: Isabella Saingon and Bessie Kewish (equal), 1; Joan Farnie, 2; Maggie Milburn, 3.

Mental orithmc ie: Bosaie Kewish. Mapping: Fred Heatly. Writing: Joan Farnie, 1; Harold Austing, 2.

Standard V (Mr JefEery, assisted by Miss Rankin).Boys : James Johnuton, 1; John Thomas, 2 ; Ernest Smith, 3. Girls : Maggie Scoular, 1 ; Maggie Watts, 2 ; Alice Evaos, 3.

Mental Arithmetic : Maggie Scoular. Writing : Emily Jeffreys, 1; Ada TJ'Ren. Standard IV(Mr Stewart).- Boys : John Hickey, 1; Thomas Scoular, 2 ; David M'Ouwan, 3. Girls : Jane Lothian, 1; Maiy fiellatly, 2; Gertrude Allan, s. Writing: Mary Maguira Sandtrd 111 (Sir Williamson, assisted by Misa SmithJ.-Boys: Ernest Baiid, 1; William Napier, 2; James Stark, 8; Joseph Scott, 4. Girls: Jessie Brading, 1; Martha Chapman, 2; Annie Low, 3; Carolice Lambourne, 4.

Special prizes were awarded to Helen Dickison, Flora Simson, and Edith Jchn-xm.,.

Standard II (Mis 3 Kobsrtson and Mr Strong) — Boys: Rob2ib M'Cowan, 1; John Neil, 2; Robert Dietison, 3; Gjorge Napier, 4. Girls: Elizabeth Robins, 1; Klizibeth faunders, 2; Madeline New-sc-me, 3 ; Louisa Jowsey, 4. Staatlard 1 (Miss M'Leid).-Boys: Win Eroadfcot. 1; Fred Parry, 2; R^lph Johns-one, 3. Gills : Jane Thomas, 1; Li.ias Robson. 2; Be3Sie Clarke, 3.

INFANT DEPARTMENT (Miss M'lntosh, assisted by Miss Dick) Upper division.—Boys : Fredorick Attwood, 1 Alfred LitolfJ, 2 ; Abol Warrington, 3 Gir s: Juli Arehieon, 1; Janet Napier, 2 ; Agnes Dlckiaon, 3

Second division.— Boys: Jeremiah Johnston, 1; Junes Shirley, 2; James Campbell, 3. Girls: Ellin Meiklcjohn, 1; Ge:trude Lu3combe, 2; Dora Wilkinson, 3. Sewing Prizes.—Standard VII: Hannah Pierrepoint. Standard VI: Maggie Milburn, 1; Edith Trcz'ue, 2. ttamlardV: Alice Evans, 1; Adah O'Ren, 2. standard IV: Lily Neil, 1; Eva Ash, 2. Standard III: Maggie Risk, 1; EHtber Slater. 2. Standard II: Lily Cross, 1; Eiiztbeth M'Nee, 2. Standard I: Jessie Saundera, 1; Bessie Clarke. 2. Darning: Margaret Early. Buttonholes; Eva Payne, 1; Maogiu M'Nee, 2.

Special prizes and prizes to ba awarded for general school work were received from the following donors : The Rev. Mr Michie, £1 Is; Miss Matthews, £1; Mr Ashton, a silver medal; Mr English (Mayor of Mornington), two writing-desks and three boxes of writing materials. Books were received from Mr Saunders (of Saunders and Co.), Mr Mercer, Mr Kyle, Mr Jefiery, Miss Robertson, and Mr Stewart.

Forty-six first-claes and 51 second-class goodattendance certificates was awarded. After the distribution, the Rev. Mr Michie, who presented the prizes, addressed the children. It was announced that the school would reopen on Monday, January 19,

RAVENSBOURNE SCHOOL,

The annual proceedings in connection with the breaking-up of this school were held on December 12, at 7 o'clock. The Rev. Mr Young presided, and distributed the prizes, certificates, &c. The roomß were tastefully decorated with ferns and flowers by the Benior pupils and pupil teachers (Mr Henderson and Miss Burnside). A large number of the residents came forward spontaneously and presented valuable prizes and medals to the pupils for special subjects. There were 11 good attendances as compared with 10 last yoar. The following is the prize-list: — Infant Department.—Classwork : Willie Jack and Er'neat Webbor (equ-1). 1; Thomas Roovos, Richard Cairney, and John Willis (equil), 2. Spoeial prize fcr reading (frovn Sirs Lo Kcong): James Haling. Mental arithmetic : Willis Jack. Special prizos for quietness (presented by Mrs Palmer) : Chag Henderson, Joseph Koovos, Anniß Hayod, Fred Portman, Robert Brownlie, Hilda Moller. Standard 111.- Classwork : Arthur Ilarrop, 1; John Stephen?, ■*; Maggio Grant, 3. Writing: E.lward Whitten. Mintal arithmetic : John King. Stan-iardll.—Clas3work: William l-'arton, 1; Ralph Lltt.e, 2 : filiza Stephen?, 3. Spoiling: Arthur Portman. Mental arithmetic : Minnio Withers. Stan-lard 1.-Olasawork : Eliza Russell, 1; KUon Collins. 2; Cathorlne Grunt, 3. Writing : Eliitt KusBell Mental arithmetic: Bfeiio Mitchell. Stvndard IV. - Classwork : Arthur Little, 1; Alice Hays, 2 • Thomas Gillies, 3. Writing : Charles King, 1 Mental arithmetic: Lizzio Cairnoy. Mapping: Matthew nondorson. Spelling (sroslal prize proBontod by Mrs Fra?or): Charlts Kinir Standard V -CliHswcrk: M'n>tio Blicklo, 1: Dora "Littiu and Krnest Miiilor (equal., 2. "Writing : Geoigo King, 1; Armio Foniio. 2. Slapping-: Dors, little. Mental arithmetic: Ernest MO'.lcr. Chemistry: Dora Littlo. Spelling (special prize presented by Mrs iastaudnrdT'l-Clas3woi-k: Emily Milnes, I; Nellie Palmor, 2. Writing: Lillio Young. Mapping (prize presented by his Worship the Mayor): Holla Gillanden Spr-lling (bpecial prizo prrstnted by Mrs Frasor): CU«lca Mitcholl. Cheinietry: Bella Oil-Dra'w'ni».-Firnd ptizo (prosontod by W Portrann, E&<l), Uicharri Hoffman; second (preacnletl by Mrs Palmer), Arthur Littlo; thiul (presented by Mrs Palmer), J P Stephens. Indujtrial Department.-Firaii section: Bella Gillandcis, 1; Minnie Blacklo, 2; Dora LUtle, 8. Second soetion : Mary J Milneg, 1; Eliza Ruesell, 2 . Emma Callon, 3. Special Hrsi priaa (or darning; (pio.

Standard II (Mips Adams). -Firat division : Ja-ne3 D Thomson and Thomii Davis, 1; Thoraia Trownaou, Andrew Thoin-nii, and Leonard Pasr.o'c, 2. Vtulut Orou, 1; Wllholmina Mason and Anjo iia Donovan, 2 -eoimldivisiO': Walter Key, ■; Archibald Suinmorill. 2. Alice Chiva. 1: Annto Barrett, 2

ftud Lydia Scwman, 1; Alice Terry and Amelia Bilson, 2.

standard 111 (UrOhU'Ch aud Miss Kobarfa) Fi-st divisijn: Chi-i»s Je. kins an'! Gh r.-o Fi»lav, 1; Aloxiuder AHud ck, Choodore dim on. and Percy Petnrj, i; Guju'O Shiltn.. and Henry Srielt n, 3. Jeas'e i'orran-jo a-id M lagio Stewart 1; Margie Thomeoii, J.s ie Hill a^d J vie Dulhle, 2; Mi no Ifar'ow, 3 Swiiid dlvi-inn (MWs Kobars): Mbert Gillind and Miria J.lt.ey, Ij A chibakl M'Nim and Miry Th.'Uaijn, il hpanltti. Home PX^rcitC3: ißaHl'a M'Or.girardLizZ'eSMli". Ki-»'I-hk: Janot MO mneil. Goo i ciniiucti: Alexi d-r Masrtott nnd Z I'a Mjr'oi Third 'Uiiilon (.tfr KHz,'eraldi: R Wilson nnJu G. b'jio (equal), 1; John D.movan aod John Kilu'iur, 2. Kamh Wihon and Katie Oook, 1; Mmnie Pattillo, 2. SpeciiL-ReaJiuir: -arah Wil-oa (prate itcd by MrW D Stewart, M (I. it) Flora Summeroll (presented byanold suhaia:). hilling: Gertrud'j Bria,co. Writi'iL': Lizzio «orth-*hlt. fixerclae: John Kil.'our and Lizzio Borthwlcu. Arithmetic : Robert vvilsin and John Domvan (equal). Standard IV (Mr Balaill.:), J^hn Cible, 1; Alex Aitlton atd A R Jones, 2. flora Stmcbaa, 1; Annie Prior, 2 Special. - Hecitation : R yawn and John Balrd. Exercise : Thorn w Thomas. V/ritin^ : George Henderson, 1; Annio Pornii i, 2. Recivation : Kubina Morgan Writing : C U'Kenzio. Standard VI. Q ys: i-dwa-.d DavU, l; John Gibson, !. G'rls: El zi Wriiht, I; Mary Smith, 'I. Ktandiid V (Divijion I) -B >ys : Jiuils G vlland and Ar.hur Prior, 1; Konn jth M'Kenzie. 2. Girls : Mary Warr.n 1; Mary Blao Liii.m Pitors, 2. F.r'st R.yal It .adar (Ms* White).-Pirot di»Ulon : Wd i tin Orosbie, 1 : Willie W.lkti, 2. i-diih trwln, 1; Lena GebSie aud X (to vvi kii,:'. Second d vision : Ernest tlannav, 1; John Hnu-*tono ajd James Millis, '2. Alice Jeffs'and Id* bcU'hSoa, 1; Louija Pollok, 2. Third dlvi-.iou: Willie Xi mo ir and Gcor^a Foliok, 1; John Diuiels, 2. Mary Grlffl hs, 1; Eunn Gaflney and Daiay Haydon. 2 Fjurhh d vision: James Cable, 1; Joii i Sba v and J^nioj CuDniiighim, 2. Liiy Oreig ann Bchsl MorgaD, 1; Annio Stn*-a t. i Sawi.ip (Jud.'ee, Me.d m 33 A Stewart, M Cohen, and Mittho v,,) -nrnndird I: Jpsc Co.er, 1. Standard II: t'eaj-d divi.il n—ls;%b«lla Dray and MaEßiu Alexa-.ri t, 1; flfot division Ada Str* hi". 1. Stan-

da-d III: Flora snmnifarail a.d Annie H-iater, 1. Standard IV; Joah*u Schlaadt. aid Flora strnchan. Siandard V: May Bltck and Kite, vrtrachan, 1. Standard VI: Spccill prizej, p e-euted by Mefdames ijnhen, Matthew?, and hsrachan, to Biizi Wright, Margaret Alien aid Rubina M Gill. Kxfa prize for reading (pre3ea od by Mrs H Naphtali), Bessie Licht : i.stein.

GEORGE STREET SCHOOL,

The annual distribution of prizes in connection with the above school took place on Dec. 11, in the presence of a large number of visitors. The ceremony of giving away the prizes was performed by Mr Bell. Most of the tichool Committee were present, and also the Revs. Messrs Dumbeli and Beckeuham. Appended is the prize-list:— CLASS PRIZSS. ' Standard 1.-Dlvlsion 1: Maggie Robertson, 1; Nellie Hansen, 2. Division 2: Albert Tracey and Jam:a Micdouald (equal), 1; Edward M'Cormick, 2 Division 3: Willii I'ickard, 1 ; Je3fie Adams, 2. Standar t 11. Boys: James Hielop, 1: John Gill spia, 2 ; D.ivid Pickard 3. Girls: Blanche Villain, 1; M-ii-y Wordinw, 2; Mary Seholefield, 3. Writing : Willie Hartley, 1; Johanna Jenkins, 'I. Sewing : Nelllo Wocdiats, 1. _ . S;anda-d 'HI.-Girls: Sarah Benfell, 1; Jessie MGI iehan, 2: Mary Crawford, 3 Boys : Henry Harbour, 1; George Wrght, 2; H?nry Freeman, 3. Writing: John Buroa SSxerciae-book : George Wright Sewing: J?Q3ie Sawers. Sia:idird iV.—Girls: iaran Evans, 1; Ellen Ore'swell a»d Elizabeth Lum'ey, equal. Boys : Harold Brookhouse. 1; David Fairbairn, •>, ; George Barclay and Erne-tSiticook, equal Writing: Gins, Mary stevena; boye, William Tnamson. Exercise: Jessie Penman Mentalarithm tie : Tnoma i Ho^g. S'andard V.—Boyj: W Browne?, 1; A Jlathews, 2; J Patrick, 3. Girls: L.dia Harbour, 1; WimJa Browne, 2; Alice Browne, 3. Writing: James Gilliospio, 1; Ueirgina Humphrey, 2. Exercise-book : R Arthur, 1; Teeuie Burns, 2. Mapping : Alfred Browne. Stmdird Vl.—Uppor: Elizibeth Harbour, 1 (prize, gold niedil): John Harbour, 2 Lower : Harry Tappar, 1; Mary Urquhart, 2; Eliza Turner, 3. Mapping : Lilian Wal.ace. Sewing : Jos ie Campbell, 1; L Walaca and B Farrington, certificates. SPECIAL PRIZSS. Standard 1 —Wrism^ : Janus Cameron. Sewiog: Anne Young Attrition v.d improvement (Mr Giitfln): Clementina Burns and W lilaok Standard 11. -Home work (Mr O Griffin's priz39): Charles M'Glashan, 1; t.auia Fox, 1. Standard Kl.-Mental arithmetic (Mr S M'Donald's pr ze): Henry Harbour, 1 Aiithmetic (Mr G writfin's prizes): H Harbour, 1; A Walker, a; Jea.ie MGla-han, 1 Stan-jard IV - Mental arithmetic (Mr S M'Donald's): T Hong. Q licknesa and accuracy in arithmetic (Mr Griffin): fl Brookman a d tllen Ore swell Standard V. HisSory (»lr .iae'd prize): Ernest Rowntroe, Mental arithmetic (Mr S M Donald'?): JAn Pitick. Class work (Mr GriffithV) : S M-Dona!d and Teonie Burns. Darning (Srs J W Jago's prize) : El'en Doig. Standard Vt.-VVritirg (Mr Gnffli'a prize): J Harbour. Mental arithmetic (Mr Griffin's) i H Tapper. Arithmetic: Elizi Tumor. Darning (Mrs Jago's): Isabella Donald.

Good - attendance certificates: First-class, 22; second-class, 49.

CHRISTIAN BROTHERS' SCHOOL,

The annual distribution of prizes was made at thia school on Dec. 19 by the Most Rev. Dr Moran, in the presence of the clergy of the mission and a largo number of parents. Before the priz9s ware given the pupils sang a numbar of choruses and delivered several dialogues and recitations with much spirit and ability. Bishop Moran spoke as follows:—Gentlemen, having now distributed fcne> prizes, it becomes my duty to address this assembly. I feal thatl can congratulate all on the success of this school. The number of pupils attending it last year has besn- satisfactory, and the progress of these pupils has also been satisfactory. The number on the roll last year—that is, the year endiug to-day—has been 255. This number, as compared with 234 for the previous year, is precisely such as we had reason to expect, anda furtherincrea3emay beanticipated next year. lam happy to know that the conduct of the pupila evidenced a marked improvemeut during the year, and I hope that it will always ba in the power of whom may preside at the annual distribution of prizes in Jws hall to be able to congratulate the boys on their good conduct, the propriety of their demeanour, and their Christian deportment. During the examination just ended the pupils were examined in catechism, sacred history, English composition, English grammar, arithmetic, bookkeeping, algebra, geometry, bis tory, geography, mensuration, Latin, and French. This, as you perceive, is an extensive curriculum oE subjects, and it is only nscessary for you to look over the papers on the table before you to be convinced that the pupila have made great progress in all these subjects. I would especially ask you to read the papers on EDglish composition, arithmetic, bookkeeping, and catechism. You will see from these with what cara the boys are taught these most necessary subjects. Nor have they baon tau~ht with les3 care in all the others. In order that the boys may learn to set a high value on religious knowledge, English grammar, English composition; arithmetic, bookkeeping, and Euclid, two scholarships have been given for proficiency in.these subjects; and I think, if you will read the papers which you have in your hands, you "will agree with me in saying that these are more than creditable, and that when you bear in mind that the winner of the senior scholarship is only 13 years of age, and the winner of the junior only 11, you will easily perceive that both masters and pupils have done their work well indeed. The subjects for both the scholarship examinations have been the same, but th 9 questions for the senior havo been more advauced than those for the junior. The percentage of marks gained by all the candidates is large, but the winner of the senior scholarship gained SS3 of marks, and the winner of the junior 913. This is very satisfactory. In view of the probable increase of pupils next year, and of tho arrival of an additional teacher, it will b3 necessary for us to build an additional school-hall next year. I feel certain you will all aid in this necessary work, and that, notwithstanding the sacrifices you are making to erect the cathedral, you will not hesitate to provide what is necessary to secure the continued efficiency of this excellent school, where your children are receiving an excellent and high education under the guidance and protection of religion. It strikes me that when you call to mind the scandalous exhibition witnessed in this city yesterday, you will thank God for the merciful dispensation which saves your children from being told by one minister of religion, at a school exhibition, that there is only one little blot in godless education, and by another that all are proud of the man who considers it his most important duty to'make a weekly exhibition of his denial and contempt of Christianity. Thank God, only two or three "unfortunate Catholic children were thera to hear men, calling themselves ministers of the religion of Christ, proclaim godless education an excellent system, laud the unchristian and anti-christian chairmnn of tho meeting, and hold him up for the admiration of the lisicg generation. For years it has, unfortunately, baen _my lot to protest from this spot against the tyranny and injustice that excludes our schools from all participation in the Parliamentary education vote, to a share ofwhich we as taxpayers are entitled; also to protost against the exclusion of our schools from all share in the scholarships provided by public funds. But I suppose I shall have to continue my jeremiads as long as I live. It would appear that the system of godless education by law established in this country dreads competition ; and that although Catholics must pay for public education, Catholic schools shall not be permitted to compete with the secular, lost what is only little batter than an expensive sham sliould be exposed. Th.c success of the non-endowed Catholic schools in Ireland is a warning which J havo no doubt will be taken to heart here; and instead of moving our secularists to open their minds and hearts to the claims of justice and fair play, will only havo the effect of raising up still greater oppo: sitioa to concessions demanded by justice and' equity. The prizo-liat is as follows : —

BKSIOII 110051. Regular Attendance (Mr J IS Callau's prize) —L Pnvlotich, 1; A Court an ( D Hartnott (ojual wiih him).

Homo Work.—Senior dasi (Mr Wood's prize): A Court, 1; L Pavleticb, 2. Junior class (Mrs Murphy's priza): J Meenaii, 1; E Shcody, 2. Cnristian Doctrine-Senior (Mr J B Callan's) : C Fottreil, 1; C Columb, 2. Junior (Mrs Bunbury's): W Kesabotham, I ; X Sheedy, 2

Arithmetic- Senior (Mr Gourley'a): D Hartnott, 1; T, Pavletlch. 2. Junior (Mr Roche's): J Mconan, 1; E Shcedy, 2. English Grammar.—Senior (Mr J B Callus's): A Court, 1; 0 Columb, 2. Junior (Mr Fleming's): X Shcedy. 1: C Meado, 2.

lioahkcupinj;.—Senior (Mr F.ominx'B): L Pavle«ici 1; C Ctlumb, 2. Junior (Mr Bunburj-'s): E Sliced 1; J Meenan, 2.

English Comro'itiaD. — Senior (Mr Roche's): tl Hartnctt. 1; A Court, 2. Junior (lit Gourley's): J Connor, 1; X Shoidy, 2.

Geometry.—Senior (Mr Bunlmry's): L PiwleMch, 1; O Kottrell, 2. Junior (Mr Pe^'s): II Griffon, 1; E Shocdv, 2.

Histcry.-Senior (Mr P..\vor'.-0 : T Lynch, 1; T D.-unim, 2. Junior (Mr Maccdo'e): J Mienan, 1; A O'riiijn.2. ~

Geography. Senior iMr N Smith's): C Columb, 1: A Court, •?. Junior (Mr Roche's): J Maguire, 1; J Corner, 2.

Latin. — Senior (Mr M iguire's): A Court, 1; h Pavloiicta, 2. Junior : J Slattory, 1; J Meenan, 2.

Frtnch —Senior: C Columb, 1; A Court, 2. Junior J Median, 1; II Griffon, 2.

sentfid by Mrs Tait), Lillle Young; socohd (presented by Mr a 13r iwn), Dora Little. Medal 3 Silver medal, Maltess crocs (pre-oted by Mr Carl Moler) to tho boy best liked by hi- compinlon*, Chirlea J Mitchell; -ilvor medal, Malte c eroß9(a'BJ preeonled by Mr MO.ler), t> the giil be»3 liked uy her cmKianions, Mallaa Mulloairer; tilver

mwi.il (presented by Sir D ¥ou.,g M yor, and Mr D O Stepho.is) io the ux (boy or girl) of tho Bcho.l, Chuloa J Milshull.