LONDON.

Otago Witness, Issue 740, 3 February 1866, Page 4

LONDON.

(?BOM THE DAILY TIMES CORRESPONDENT.) November 26th, 1865.

Your mails arrived 11th and 17th instant, announcing the successful Opotiki expedition ; the capture of some of the murderers ; confiscation of land in Taranaki ; proclamation of peace and amnesty ; immediate departure of troops for England ; return of General Cameron ; rejection of Separation Bill ; proarammes of the Financial and Defence Ministers ; proposition of increased taxation ; rush to ■the new gold fields, &c. It is to be hoped Sir G. Grey and his Ministry see their ■way clearly in proclaiming peace and sending away the troops. We at home rejoice in the prospect of hostilities ceasing, which will give your legislators some scope for promoting progress, and attending to the urgent wants of the Colony. Taxation is "unfortunately the inevitable adjunct to war ; but once a durable peace obtained, the expenditure lightened, and the Maori Thought within the ma^ic circle of order snd civilization, we shall look for harmony and patriotism amongst your rulers ; a manful self-reliance of the settlers ; a rapid development of jour resources — then will each succeeding mail bring welcome Dews of increasing prosperity to your long-afflicted land.

The conclusion of Jarvey's protracted trial must be a great relief to your community, and the wretched criminal himself cannot complain of its result — that he was impartially tried, ably defended, and righteously convicted, there can be no possible doubt. Analogous to Jarvey's case, is one we h>ve here. On the first trial of Charlotte Winsor, the hired childmurderess, in Devonshire, the jury could rot agree, and were discharged without a verdict. On her second trial, she was convicted and sentenced to death ; her counsel, Mr Folkard, pleaded the illegality of this second trial, and she was respited. She i* now brought by habeas corpus into the Queen's Bench, for the purpose of •' assigning errors on the record," and is further respited till February, and the important question as to the legality of her conviction will be argued iv full Court next Terra.

Mr Fox is earnestly engaged with his Exeter Hall opponents, on the subject of New Zealand embroglios ; the controversy involving not only the merits of the present war, but the entire area of Native management, and the columns of the press are freely opened to the argument. When parliament meets, we shall have an eirly debate and official testimony, till when, the English people will scarcely be the wiser for all this desultory correspondence, Assistant-Surgeon Manley, V. G, is promoted to Staff- Surgeon, for services rendered in the field during recent operations in New Zealand.

The Directors of the P. N Z. and A. R M. Company have Lsued a report for presentation at the next general meeting of shareholders. The receipts for six months ending June 30th, were L 80.963 ; the disbursements, LG5,155, and a dividend of 5 per cent, is recommended. The remaining L 2 per share is to be called up ; Ll to be paid Ist January next, and the other on April Ist.

The news from Victoria is simply astounding. Free from Native difficulties, and inundated with prosperity, faction should not be allowed a week's existence ; yet we there see a written well- defined constitution deliberately made the sport of would-be statesmen, and grasping landowners — the whole machinery of Government paralysed, and Colonial rule a mere laughing stock to neighbouring communities. Constitutional Government works badly in Victoria, when such a dead-lock can only be surmounted by the weakness of the Queen's representative in lending himself to revolution. A better sense of dut)' is reasonably expected from a people so singularly prosperous, and should be made manifest before worse comes of such waywardness. According to present appearances, something akin to irresponsible despotism is getting the upper hand, and the London Press is unanimous in condemning such doings ; especially warning Sir C. Darling, that he will be required to make a strong defence for having assisted the ministry to invade the very spirit of Representative Government.

Lord Palmerston was buried in Westminster Abbey, Oct. 27. It was in every sense a public funeral; the Prince of Wales attended; the Queen was represented ; and all possible honor was paid to the mortal remains of "England's Minister." Earl Russell is now the premier, and has experienced unexpected difficulty in shaping a ministry. Constitutional reform ia the English aspiration ; it will be broadly and temperately argued, whether for universal or manhood suffrage, ■without any fear of rabid tumult ; the days are gone for political debauchery and bloodshed, and no party now has power to force on hasty or careless legislation. Whether a new bill be passed next year or the following matters not ; but it must be of Government origin, and the task is a

very serious one. Seldom do ministers take office with more expected at their hand?, and unless the Cabinet be strengthened by an infusion of new blood of sterling quality, its term may be reckoned by days ; old-fa9hioned Whig

tactics cannot carry the Government through the approaching ordeal ; pood men and true must rush to the fore. The retirement of the genial Mr Mutt and the eccentric Sir Robert Peel lets in Mr Goschen, M.P., London, as Vice-President of the Board of Trade, and Mr Chichester Fortescue as Irish Secretary ; Mr Forster, M.P., Bradford, is Under Secretary to the Colonies. Baron Cran worth is expected to resign the Great Seal in favor of Sir John Romilly, M.R.; and Mr Edward Baxter will probably he Civil Lord of the Admiralty. "Peace, retrenchment, and reform" is the only motto which will be now listened to, no ministry can endure without it; and in addition there must be adopted some positive method of winning the hearty co-operation of the Irish nation. The people now care more for measures than men; the new parliament will be very exacting, and the Opposition very strong— forall which the Russdl-Gladstone Ministry must be prepared, or fall. Jamaica sent a telegram, which came to hand the 2nd inst, of an insurrection in the eastern portion of that island, the full particulars of which accompany this mail. On the 11th October the blacks suddenly commenced a slaughter which promised to eclipse the horrors of St. Domingo; their savage nature displaj'ed itself, and nearly 50 innocent people are supposed to have been most barbarously murdered ere succour arrived; but it was a premature outbreak, and, is, we tru*t, extinguished, as on the 24th Governor Eyre sent us re assuring news. What deeds of blood were enacted during those 13 days of terror will be more fully related in the Governor's next despatch. So far as at present informed we accept this dreadful calamity as a providential interposition, for the original design was a general rising on Christmas Day next, and the total extirpation of the white race. The black soldiers of our West llndia regiments, together with the once troublesome Maroons, proved loyal and trustworthy ; otherwise, with the few troops at hand, our chance would have been a poor one. Gordon, a colored member of parliament; Bogle, a well-to-do negro; with other leaders and two or three hundred rebels, are reported to have been executed, and many more awaiting th^ir trial. There appears to be no professional correspondent of the London press in the Antilles, and the slovenly reports which were forwarded inspired extreme anxiety ; gohemouche storus were afloat that v Obeahism " or " Vaudouism " was at the bottom of the horrid transaction ; and again we were told that 'he negroes were under Fenian influence, that their bad passions were inflamed by neighboring brethren at Hayti ; that it was part and parcel of neuro organization, with ramifications in Cuba, Porto Rico, and America Any way, a great peril haa been averted by the prompt action ot Governor Eyre, who^e official narrative will be read with thrilling inlerest. This ingratitude of our former slaves appears monstrous ; they have evidently been too well treated since their emancipation, and mw shew us that they are not to be trusted. For their whole race it is a most inauspicious rising, as just now the negro question is the greaf problem in America; and even the extreme Abolitionists must pause in their ardent sympathy when they find the colored population so unmindful of benefits conferred in the case of the West India Islands. It is suggested here that martial law was proclaimed after rebellion wa<* crushed, and that people were hanged without formal trial ; but it must be remembered that the blacks numbered seven to our one, and it is impossible to judge of the critical state of the colony at that moment. No doubt the circumstances will be impartially investigated, and we trust that the Governor will fully substantiate the justice of his ulterior proceedings

The cattle plague still spreads — it grows upon us, to the dismay of all ; it has penetrated into 47 counties, viz . 29 English, 2 Welch, and 16 Scotch ; its number of victims increases week by week, and with all our importations the stock gets reduced. Five months back there were about 7,000,000 cattle in Great Britain, there are now about 6,970,000. The disease quite baffles the Faculty, and a proposition is made to try the effects of homoeopathy. The Royal Commissioners have issued a lengthy report, containing little that was not previously known, and giving no positive information on the origin, nature, cure, or prevention ; they incline to the opinion that . we have the Continental Rinderpest, practically and incredibly contagious, and the only remedy is the poleaxe; they recommend a suspension of the entire cattle traffic of the kingdom. But that is easier said than done ; Parliament must sanction it, and Ministers will scarcely venture to suggest it. Something more satisfactory was looked for, and may yet appear in a second report ; meanwhile, s' artling difficulties aud a probable hard

winter lie before us, together with the gloomy prospect that if no relief comes except through a Royal Commission, we may go from bad to worse for many years. Already provisions of all kinds approach famine price*; the retailers of food, taking advantage of the cattle pretext, seem to combine with high figures, and good as trade is, folks cannot live on their earnings ; consequently strikes for higher wages are innumerable, aud many schemes are ventilated for circumventing the extortionate

tradesmen, such as " meat societies," &c.

Cholera bends to circumstances ; cold weather and energetic treatment work the cure ; and now after hovering so loDgover central and western EuroDe and creating the wildest alarm, nothing is heard of it but its departure ; nevertheless, judging

from precedent, we may look for severe

visitations next year, and are preparing as best we may to break its force, by purifying the water supply and adopting other sanitory precaut ; ons. Seville and Naples furnish Ion? lists of casualties ; but in Paris and Madrid, it was terrible — 2000 fatal cases in Paris alone were recorded in one week ; it was a plague-beleaguered city, and the severity of the affliction brought out noble traits. The gaieties of Compiegne were suspended ; large contributions were gathered to meet the wants of the sufferers and their families; Emperor, Empress, Prince?, Archbishops and Nobles, visited the patients, and thus a panic was obviated — and with the disappearance af the pestilence, such conspicuous liberality, kindness and forethought tend to cement the Napoleon dynasty, the welfare of France, and the peace of Europe. The Emperor's Sanitary Conference is appointed to be held at Constantinople, and will be attended by representatives of all the European powers. By comprehensive enquiry and combined research, the plague will be studied at its source ; and as we already know that it is controllable in its effects, the question arises, may not its origin also be controlled?

L Empire e'est la paix! and none may deny it — the decree at last goes forth for reductions in the army — 50,000 men at one fell swoop, according to report. But whether the saving be two million pouuds sterling or only so many francs, matters little, the third Napoleon bids " disarm," and from such lips the words breathe comfort and assurance. French troops are coming home from Rome, and will also soon quit Mexico ; the world is to be at peacs, and armaments may be lowered. Parisian journals tell us that Mexico is no longer a problem ; Juarez and bis broken forces are fugitives, to be disposed of in due time by gendarmerie ; and that the people have come to prefer monarchy, order and prosperity, to a continued system of rapine and anarchy. Maximilian decree? that, by the retirement of Juarez and the expiry of his Presidency, the Republic is ended, and all persons henceforth found in armed hostility will be shot within 24 hours. U^ly tales appear of another Algerine revolt, wi h 50,000 insurgents defying the legions of France; but the official papers say it was a mere trifle which was speedily settled, and threaten thepub'ishers of false intelligence with prosecution. Something is to be done in Madagascar ; the ministers there resolutely refuse payment of monsy guaranteed to France, and the Queen supports them. In a few more months European affairs will be tolerably easy, and then the dishonest islanders will be taught a lesson in morality.

Anna Murat is really going to be marrid next month — the happy bridegroom is le Due de Mouchy, Prince de Poix, a descendant of Noailles and Maintenon, a Grandee of Spain, &c, &s., &c. The fiscal resources of the raarritd couple will be about L 90,000 per annum, and the lucky Duke is to be presented with the title of "Highness," and Fontainebleau will be offered for the honeymoon — thus the good Emperor gets another troublesome business off his hands. The French Court is now in full festival at Compisgne, and amidst its frivolities the tired Chief may snatch relief from the cares of State, and return to his studies like the giant refreshed. It is at Compiegne where the genial influence of the Empress will be exerted to effect the reconciliation of that audacious Prince Napoleon with his " dear Sire and Cousin."

M. Dupin, the eminent jurist, orator, and statesman, died 9th instant, aged 82, worth, it is said, about L 200,000. A greater man, however, than M. Dupin, (although not quite so rich) has also departed, Elb Levy; he weighed just 3 7st 121b 2oz. and was aged 52. The pretty Jenny Vertpre, of theatrical note, is also dead.

The Universal Exhibition of 1867, in addition to manifesting the progre?s of industry and fine arts, is also to shew the advance, during the last) 20 years, of literature and science as affecting the national well being. The publication of the correspondence of Napoleon I. is suspended for want of funds; and public curiosity is restrained until M. Fould Ctiu find a corner in his budget for the needful.

Well, France disarms and invites the world to follow suit, and the imperious necessity of so doing is apparent. England

and Prussia excepted, Europe is incurring, a load of debt which can never be paid, good intentions notwithstanding— Russia is boasting of reform and cryinjr for retrenchment — Austria must rid herself of Venetia, and open her ports, or be ruined— ltaly must send half her army to industrial pursuits, or from sheer poverty, forfeit the bright hopes of the future—Spain, with all her recklessness and dishonesty, will be speedily taught a useful lesson — whilst England is pledged to an economy which will be enforced — Prussia will realize the vain glory of her rulers, ere much further hurt accrues to hersplf or others— Portugal inaugurates an lodustrial Exhibition at Oporto, and is intently fixed on peaceful commerce ; and the smaller States being, freed from fears of asgressiou, will gladly' embrace the opportunity for internal improvements so long denied to them.

As concerns the Pope himself, Bonaparte's Convention comes uot a day too soon. With credit destroyed, resources exhausted, finance in confusion, servants discontented, population hobtile, army undisciplined, what would become of him without the intervention of his " eldest son?" The promised publication of a correspondence between Florence and the. Tuileries will soon throw additional light on the present fituation. Meantime, even. Msgr. Merode has to retire from the Quirinal, under the pressure of circumstances. Garibaldi's honest antipathy tcv foreign aid, and Mgzzini's crazy enthusiasm may be cast aside — the Pope's good sense will return to him in time to prevent disaster : he can no longer te blind to the inexorable logic of facts; already oneportion of the French garrihon has left his dominions, another brigade is under orders to leave in April, and he will soon be under the sole protection of that Italian kingdom he yet so professes to despise. As yet he makes no sign; but he's safe enough,, if he will only be guided by his trusty fiiends.

The Italian elections have been obstinatel}' contested, and a strong clerical opposition is returned ; but the people are for King and Convention. The King has opened the Session with a congratulatoryspeech on late achievements and spetdy unification : " Spain, Bavaria and Saxony recognise our kingdom, and commercial treaties flow in from the nations; Rome is almost our own; trie Convention is being realis-ed ; Austria will soon retire from the Quadrilateral, and the whole Peninsula, forming one great country, will occupy its place in Europtan Councils. I also recommend the separatiun of Church and State, and the suppression of religious bodies, to your earnest deliberation." Thu3 said the King; but on finance, he very cautiously touched, and well he might — it is a formidable and a dangerous sore. The annual deficit is 12 millions sterling, and with taxes at the maximum, this can only be met by continual borrowings. The one safeguard against national bankruptcy, ia a redaction in the army, and pride shonid no longer be the sole obstacle to itRegulars and militia, they muster 500,000, a force clearly not warranted by circumstances. We see the wily Bismarck buzzing round the wheels of Napoleon's chariot^ and we have other indications that men of mark begin to understand each other ; and whilst a few more months may suffice for unravelling the tangled skin of Continental politics, war is the very last thing now dreamt of. °

To speak of Germany as in the throes of revolution would be mere idle repetition of a false prophecy. Bismarck rules Fatherland, doing as he listeth; all else is sound and fury, "signifying nothing." That he is a bold man none can deny, and certainly the most unscrupulous itatesmatk of modern times ; but then he is successful, and apparently beyond the reach of punishment. Whether the dreadful day of reckoning is to come, and great to be hia fall, masters not just now. In vain the Federal Diet assemble to denounce the tyranny of Prussia, and the Holy Alliance between llap<-burg and Hohenzollern ; in vain they appeal and protest ; in vain they swear resistance — they signally fail to produce one liberal statesman with sufficient political courage to encounter the enemy - 7 whil-t their vaunted liberties are trampled under foot, their freedom of speech threatened with utter extinction, and their darling protege the Duke Augustenberg is warned that if he again speechifies in the Duchies he will be arrested ; the press and the people are ominously cautioned against encouraging his fantastic notions,, or harborin ; his ducal person. The free town of Frankfort is warned against noisy meetings. Even Austria has notification that Berlin decrees only will henceforth pass current, and the indisputable fiat goes forth that Herr Yon Bismarck, under the sainted King William, rules the roast by Divine right. Austria and Hungary are both trying hard to come to terms, and well they may,, for their only chance of existence is in unity ; and by conciliating the Magyar,, and relieving himself of troublesome Venetia, Francis Joseph might hope to be courted by those minor 9tates which most assuredly will some day seek to escape

from the dangerous craft of Prussia. The negotiations for the Anglo- Austrian commercial treaty, if not entirely broken off, are for the present seriously interrupted. The draft prepared by England appears as yet by far too liberal to meet the narrow prejudices of southern Germany, but the season cannot be far distant when Richard Cobden's free trade legacy shall be better appreciated. Troubles are rife again in Greece. A recent political crisis only ended by the ICing's promise to dismiss from his councils the wise Count Sponneck. Even this concession satisfies not the inveterate grumblers. Another dispute arises, another ministry has to he x formed ; and thus do captious legislators fritter away the time when so much remains for accomplishment. The brigands, too, are allowed to roam uncaptured, if not unmolested, by the troops. Altogether the sorriest aspect of Hellenic regeneration is presented, and wild excitement reigns at Athens. Denmark likewise goes through political troubles this month ; but the Danes are a patient plodding people. Honestly they take stock of their impoverished state, and prepare for improvement. Their best men come forward in support of King and Constitution ; and, if unmolested, their crippled country may yet recover a goodly part of its wasted fortunes. They are also engaged in the restoration of the Danish portion of Schleswig, in the full hope that friendly powers will assist them in an object of such vital importance.

Spain having got rid of the chGlera, resolves to be no longer the only power fostering the abhorred practice of slavery. In Cuba aiid Porto Rice the institution is abolished, and every opportunity offered for the negro's reception into the family compact. Thus far Spain is congratulated ; but what shall be said of her persistence in a bucaneerinsr policy to recruit exhausted finances ? We lately had a sorry specimen In Peru, although some specious grounds were then shown which almost passed unchallenged. But that successful business emboldens an attack on another of her former dependencies. Without a particle of justice, satisfaction is demanded for alleged outrages ; and as the republic ecorns such humiliation, the Chilian ports are blockaded, and foreign shipping have a few days 'notice to quit. Neutrality and nonintervention, if carried too far, bring evils in their train, and this very exceptional case will stand clear of them — trade with Chili now concerns all nations. The republic is remarkable for fair dealing and uprightness, and for its loyal observance of internationality . England, Trance and America have remonstrated with Spain. In Madrid itself, the aggression is deprecated as checking the national prosperity, and the intended victim may look for material aid.

American news is most encouraging. President Johnston seems to be a man created for the occasion. His mastermind and wonderful tact will soon bring into harmony all those discordant elements bequeathed by the strife. He determines that abolition of slavery and repudiation of war debts, 9hall be the basis of readmitting Southern States into the Union ; and, as universal nesiro suffrage

- ■-- — n'" ' o ■would breed a war of races, he proposes that only as the black is qualified, so shall he he gradually admitted. He pardons any one for the asking ; and on Grant's recommendation the standing army is fixed at 75,000 men. Captain Wirz's weary trial is over ; the Court found him guilty of the dreadful crimes laid to his charge, and he was hanged on the 10th inst. Jefferson Davis, it is expected, will be tried immediately; and if not implicated with Wirz's foul proceedings will be most leniently dealt with. Claims for damages respecting Confederate cruizers are not to be enforced against England. Of the " Monroe doctrine," we now hear nothing. A mutual removal of all restrictions upon British and American vessels is published, to take immediate effect in the respective ports of both countries. Peto, Kinnaird, M'Henry, and party have returned from their transatlantic inspection, and bring home a flattering account of peaceful desires being generally entertained by America. Gold is quoted at 147£. Indeed, the only troublesome intelligence is the persistence with which New York papers maintain Republic successes in Mexico ; it is so diametrically opposed to the French ews, and the subject is of such vast importance, that in the absence of reliable information anxiety obtains. We hear also, that the American Fenians, not content with scraping together all the loose cash of the patriots, are in the Wall street Market for an Irish Republican loan. Don Benito Juarez, too, in the name of Mexican liberalism, is trying it on for 30,000,000 dols. Which of these two hopeful speculations will be most successful amongst the cute Yankees, a little time will shew— there's not many pins' choice between them.

The dreaded Shenandoah comes to an inglorious end somewhat unexpectedly. At Honolulu she had created quite a panic by her wholesale destructive propensities ; 37 Teasels were known to have been destroyed

by her since she left Melbourne, and fresh war ships started in pursuit of the pirate. On the sth inst , she quietly entered the Mersey and surrendered to our authorities, Captain Waddell asserting that he first heard of Southern sure defeat, from the Liverpool ship Barracouta, ten days from San Francisco, on the 2nd August, on which he immediate'y steered for the Mersey, stopping at no other port, and that bis last capture was on June 28. She had a crew of 133; her armaments being stowed away below in boxes. After a few days' detention, Captain Waddel was ordered to muster his men on deck, that British subjects might be arrested, when, strange to relate, they were all foreigners. England was repudiated for the nonce ; and although some of their tongues were unmistakeably tinged with the Caledonian accent, their nationality was not challenged ; captain and crew were discharged on parole ; the ship formally delivered to the American Consul, and by him sent to 3STew York. Thus the matter remains at present, and may the next we bear of the terrible Shenandoah be a better character.

Indian news, Oct. 27, told us how we were preparing to thrash Bhootan, and, barring suitable arrangements, should be compelled to do so. Our forces under Generals Tytler and Turner, aided by the 91st Highlanders, were to march for Poonakha, in December; and, although the enemy boasted of support from Nepaul, Thibet, and China, we meant bringing him to reason, albeit at a greater sacrifice than was at first imagined. Cabool was still in arms and ready for fraternal massacre. The Russians were reported to have beaten their opponents, and to be within a few hostile marches of Bokhara. Cholera was seriously affecting our 45th and 106 th regiments. Captain Heath, of the steamer Lady Elgin, had been tried and deprived of his certificate, for deserting the Eagle Speed in her distress ; and the establishment of an inner floating light in the channel of the Mutlah, will, it is hoped, prevent a recurrence of such an awful calamity. The Sultan of Fawzibar had arrived at Bombay full ef political studies, the nature of which had not transpired. Bombay was lighted with gas for the first time, on 7th October, and literally astonished the natives; awe struck did they linger for many hours round the " wonderful lamp," and finally went home to dream of the marvellous power of Sahib. Dr Livingstone was lecturing in Bombay previously to departing on his peril, and subscriptions were liberally collected. Brigadier General Showers had died on the eve of his intended return to England.

In China, with the capture of I- lie, a large portion of the empire departs from Tartar rule, and the spread of the Mahomedan faith is reported, which may carry the sword of the Prophet rather closer to Pekin than will be agreeable. The Nyenfei rebels retain their hold on the captured cities. The Taku forts are evacuated by the allied European garrison. A con ftrence held between the French and English commanders resulted in the expediency of repressing piracy, which was alarmingly increasing in the Yellow Sea. A fierce hurricane had swept the Chinese coast and destroyed many ships : it? effects at Manila were of great severity. The foundation-stone of the new Masonic temple at Shanghai was laid with much ceremony, 3rd July ; it being contemplated to remove the seat of the Provincial Grand Lodge from Hong Kong. A notable feature in the late intelligence is the total cessation of complications between the Chinese and foreign authorities. In Japan things are represented as tolerably quietSir Henry Parkes deals vigorously with treacherous Daimio — the native quarrels were in a fair way of adjustment — an attempt to assassinate Emperor Tycoon had been frustrated.

The same bad new 3 comes from Central and South America — war and revolution. In Bolivia, a victory over the insurgents was reported. In Peru, it was thought the rebellion would die out from disunion amongst the leaders. The Paraguayans were being defeated by Brazil and her allies; 6000 men had surrendered, but scores of thousands were still in the field ; and the determination of Lopez not to retire vanquished, led to the belief that the worst phase of the war was to come Eager for fame denied them in Europe, the Comte d'Eu and .the Duke of Saxe had joined the Brazilian forces, intending to win their spurs on the romantic banks of the Uruguay. Our dispute with Brazil is arranged ; King Leopold was the arbitrator, and he decided againsf England, since when we have made ample apology, disclaimed all improper motives, and asked for a renewal of friendly relations ; this granted, we are once more on good terms. War at the Cape draws to its close; Boers and Basutos alike are tired of it, and peace negotiations were on foot. Moshesh, determined not to submit to the Dutch, was willing to surrender his country to the English by whom it might be colonised, but the Governor declined the proposal. Business continued dull, great hopes being entertained of the wool season. L 20,000

was voted for the completion of Kowie Harbor ; L 50,000 was being asked for expenditure on other public works. Natal has been recently enlarged ; its southern boundary is no longer the Umzinkula but the Umtamfuna, the substitution of these crack-jaw names for our limits simply implying that we obtain a new province ; and with this accession of territory, about one million acres are incorporated in the diocese of Bishop Colenzo, 20 miles of seaboard are added to our frontier, 10,000 additional savages become subjects of Queen Victoria, British law is established in a territory which was previously no better than another "Alsatia," and further fields are opened to adventurous colonists. This acquisition is perfectly healthy, well wooded and watered, and is proposed to be parcelled out into villages, each with about sixty settlers on military tenure, who, with the mother country to help them, shall hold their own against all comers.

The West African mail brings bad accounts of trade at Lagos, Benin, Bathurst, and Sierra Leone; intercourse with the interior was impeded by the continuance of native wars, and it was feared that to secure the factories and other European property in the disturbed districts, we should ultimately be compelled to take up arms.

Mr Samuel Baker having safely returned from his African travels, relates them to the Royal Geographical Society, and tells how he sought and found poor Speke and Grant in the savage wilderness. He produces a manuscript map he received from those exhausted wanderers, and by its aid himself discovered the second great lake, which he christened Albert Nyanza ; moreover, he brings home safely his devoted wife, who shared with him the dangers and fatigues of all his wondrous achievements.

Fenianisin is almost too ridiculous to dwell upon, unless one feels disposed to believe all that's told; soon will it be cleared away, without any serious shock to the feelings of either nation. With Mr Fortescue in office, Ireland's grievances will be attended to ; even the sunlight of royalty will henceforth beam more graciously en sister isle ; and it is not jet too late to see our Milesian friends prosperous and happy under Saxon rule and Saxon care. But we may not make too light of this new conspiracy. We hear of a Fenian congress established in New York, on the model of the Federal Government. Col. John Mahoney, president, with a Cabinet, a Senate, a House of Representatives, and a committee appointed to draft an address, embodying the recognition of the Irish republic. Men by the milliou and money ditto are boasted, as also mighty armaments ready for action ; a Canadian raid is proclaimed ; our arch-rebel, John Mitchell, who, after suffering some months' imprisonment at Fortress Monroe for his outrageous Southern proclivities, has been released, is preparing to guide these Fenian councils; and as iar as talking goes, the British empire is dismembered. Whilst we laugh at these absurdities, much mischief may ensue. We have a notion of appealing to the Washington Government oa the matter, and it would be agreeable to know that President Johnston had given them their quietus. Geary, the Cork leader, is still non est, but Stephens alias Power, the "head centre," and other bold chieftains, have lately been captured ; all the traitors are being prepared for trial, and we hope for agitation and discord speedily to cease. But there is a countermovement to be noticed. Mr Luby and other prisoners connected with the newspapers which were seized and suppressed, are bringing actions at law against Lord Wodehouse, Mr Stronge, and several Government officials, for illegal trespass, assault and battery ; and as there appears to be a goodly stock of foolish Fenian moaey afloat, it may as well be expended outright in harmless litigation, instead of being devoted to worse purposes. The Dublin Exhibition was formally closed 9th instant ; all expenses are covered, ani it is considered in the main a success. It was open 159 days and 51 evenings ; the number of admissions being a little over 900,000, giving an average of about 5000 by day and 3000 by night. Ssotland has been truly busy this month. Mr Gladstone was invited to Glasgow to receive the freedom of the city; he was then called to Edinburgh on retiring from his six yeare' rectorship ; at another meeting he received, on behalf of the University, a splendid marble bust of Prince Albert, by Mr Steele ; and on these occasions he made speeches which thrilled through Caledonia and the British Isles ; nevertheless, he was defeated by the Lord Justice Clerk, 15th inst., in the Rectorial election for Glasgow. The students' votes were — Gladstone, 548 ; Lord JusticeClerk, 542; but the election is decided by the collective vote 1 ? of the four " nations," and as two " nations" voted for each candidate, it was referred to the casting vote of the Duke of Montrose as Chancellor, and that was given for the Lord Justice-Clerk. The candidates for the Rector-ship of Edinburgh University were those two celebrities, Thomas Carlyle

and Benjamin Disraeli, the latter being defeated by 347 votes ; the numbers being — Carlyle, 657; Disraeli, 310. Advocate Norman Macpherson gets the chair of Scots law in Edinburgh University, vice Professor Moir. resigned. Mr Herbert S. Makley obtains the chair of music; Mr Wm. Chambers, the publisher, is elected Lord Provost of Edinburgh, vice Mr Charles Lawson, resigned. Mr John. Stuart Mill and Lord Kinnaird contested the Rectorship of St Andrews University, with the following result — Mill, 95 votes; Kinnaird, 48; but Mr Mill declines to accept the office. The question is now asked, "stands Scotland where it did?" what is the meaning of these sudden changes? Carlyle, Masson, Mill and Co., may be orthodox men on the other side the Border ; but there be sceptics to the ruling amongst our writers.

The Breadalbane peerage and its L 70,000 revenue are in full swing of litigation ; legal acumen on both sides the Tweed is being heavily taxed to substantiate the palpable rights of each of the three cousincandidates for coronet and siller. Bat whether Lieut. Duncan Campbell, of H.M. 57th Regiment, or Charles William Campbell of Borland, or John Alexander Gavin Campbell of Glenfalloch, is to be the next Marquia is a question which will require considerable judicial consideration; consume many reams of brief paper ; involve some good round fees ; and possibly outlive the present litigants. Braemar was recently invaded by an army of rats : they suddenly appeared in the mountain land, and swarmed in myriads over the district. Homesteads, farm yards, and barns teemed with the vermin ; and many a gudewife will long deplore the voracious propensities of the unwelcome intruders. They played old gooseberry with more than one bothy in the wilds ot Glencillater, devouring all the delicious edibles, and then attacking blankets and beds. Stalwart Highlanders were driven ia despair from their domiciles, half fancying the very deil was amongst them, and fervently praying ne'er to look upon its like asain.

Miss Georaiana, third daughter of Sir Thomas and Lady Moncreiffe, was married to Earl Dudley, 21st inst., with great rejoicings.

Colonel James Glencairn Burns, youngest son of the poet Robert, died at Cheltenham, 19th inst., aged 71. — Professor Easton, who had held the chsir of Materia Medica since 1855, died in Glasgow, 12th inst. — Jonathan Duncan, the political economist, died October 20th, azed 65. — Thomas M\Lauchlan, the social and political reformer, died October 22nd, aged 49. The Registrar- General of Scotland's monthly return for October, in the eight principal towns, gives 3121 births, 2233deaths; 656 marriages. All the«e numbers are above the average, and the highest registered in October since civil registration t egan, in 1855.

The Queen and Royal Family have passed the month at Windsor. The Crown Prince and Princess of Prussia and children, Prince and Princess Louis of Hesse and children, likewise. The Prince of Wales and his family are at Sandringuara r all we'll. The Prince and Princess of Wales have honored Earl Derby, at Knowsley, a magnificent mansion, situate in a park of fifteen miles circumference, where, in spite of the weather, there were sufficient charms and sports for our future King and Queen. Opportunity was taken of its clo~e proximity to visit Liverpool. They went in state; steamed on the Mersey ; strolled over the docks ; inspected all things of note, and were seen and cheered by everybody. Their Royal Highnesses have also paid a three days' visit to Lord Alfred Paget, at Long Melfbrd, Suffolk. Serious reports respecting King Leopold arriving, Dr. Jenner was sent expressly to Brussels, and has returned with reassuring news. Her Majesty has personally witnessed experiments with Mr Gale's new invention for rendering punpowder nonexplosive, and expressed herself much, gratified.

Lieut. -Colonel Sir Richard Airey, on the 10th inst., was duly installed as Governor of the City and Garrison of Gibraltar, vice Sir William Codrington.

Mr Justice Crompton's death, at 73, followed closely on his resignation; and Robert Lush, Esq., QC, succeeds him as Judge in the Queen's Bench. Mr Commissioner Fonblanque, aged 83, has died, and is succeeded in the Bankruptcy Court by Mr Registrar Winslow. One of the earliest cases tried by the new functionary was that of Lewine and Morris, London merchants, who began business three years! ago with a capital of L 133, and now fail with liabilities amounting to L 260,339. Mrs Lavinia Ry yes has obtained permission to lay her case before a special jury — a case of much interest. She claims to be Duchess of Lancaster, by lineal descent from H.R.H. Henry Frederick Duke of Cumberland; and after many previous failures, the poor lady now presses her suit in more auspicious times. These are the days of truth and fair dealing in law and equity, and she may depend on an impartial hearing and strict justice.

The solemn reception and enthronization of Archbishop Manning took place <3th inst., at the Roman Catholic proCathedral in Moorfields ; it was gorgeous, and attended by all the leading families oi that faith within the kingdom. " The conversion of England is nigh at hand," quoth the Doctor — a sentence we "will not stop to criticise. He like wise prognosticated the speedy establishment here of a Catholic University, and without iJarm we shall leave his Grace's eloquence to work its wonders.

Freemasons are pouring in addresses to Pius IX, respecting the Pont'fical allocution of September. They reproach His Holiness with his uncharitable condemnation of those whom it is his mission to enlighten and support; and they insist, moreover, that Masonic ideas are in no way opposed to the tenets of the Bible. But the Pope dei-jns no reply : in his forlorn portion he liberally abuses all the world, and probably thinks that no one in particular ought to be offended at it. The Under- graduates of Christ's College, Oxford, are just opening their eves to the peccadilloes of their ButLr. For bread and butter alone they are each charged 8d per diem ; wine, beer and meat are likewise taxed exorbitantly ; and all this might have been yet borne without grumbling by our generous Collegians, supposing their viands to be of dtcent quality, but they ■were notoriously the reverse. Remonstrance proved useless; hence a rupture and consequent exposure. The gentlemen of Oxford deserve hearty thanks for upsetting a ruinous tariff which is painfully inconvenient to the poorer cla-s of students ; they courageously brave the stigma of meanness, and intend to exterminate a system of wholesale fraud in which dishonest servants and tradesmen have too long revelled

England's dreary dull November is wellnigh ended ; the gloomy weather which hags us like a pall, will soon depart, and Christmas jollity come to make ameuds. We have gone through our two famous carnivals of the month, and some of us iive to tell the tale. The abominations of the sth of November grow small by degrees and beautifully less, giving us hope of some day announcing the actual demise of hideous Guido Fawkes. As for the Civic 9tb, it is now identical with the Prince's birthday, and the tom-foolery of the Lord Mayor's show has a long lease of life and glory, whatever may be the nature of iuture municipal reform ; and nothing short of revolution may dim the lustre of Eastern sovereignty. The Guile! hall banquet was as UMial. well attended and all that could be wi 3 htd; and as the Right Hon. Benpmin Samuel Phillips is a most worthy citizen, and gives good promise of efficiency, we are content that he should run his twelve months course of hospitality, trusting to the wisdom of th.3 age for something more rational with which to iuaugu•rate future dignity.

Her Majesty's service loses by death Vice -Admiral Geonre Cavendisli, aged 72; Vice- Admiral Horatio Austin, aged 70 ; Admiral Joseph l/Baen, aged 73 ; Capt. Gronow, of the Guards, aged 76 ; M;>jorGeneral Albert Pinson, 65 ; Lieutenant-G-eneral Hearsey, 72; 51aj ir- General John Eyre, 75; Captain John Mcc, of the 24th regiment, aged 86.

A large gymnasium, costing L 14,000, is erected in Myrtle street, Liverpool, for public exercise, regardless of age or sex ; and in common with others of its kind now shewing in all parts of the kingdom, it is expected to be remunerative to the -shareholders. The yearly expenses are estimated at L 1000; and 600 members are enrolled. There are day and evening c'asses, to suit the taste and convenience of pupils. The Faculty declare in favor of such institutions; and a3 prize-fighting is decidedly out of fashion now, we hope to have discovered a pleasing and healthy substitute whereby to perpetuate the development of British muse'e.

Gasworks explosions are unheard of. Engineering science pays they are things impossible, and thankful are we at having hitherto escaped them. A terrible one, however, h3S to be recorded this month. It occurred at the London Company's Works, Nine Elms, Battersea, 27th Oct., and originated in the meter house, where the air becoming infUramable by escapes from the " governors'," accidentally ignited. One huge gas-holder exploded with the report of a park of artillery ; then another one, containing a million cubic feet of gas, took fire, and the awful glare could be discerned for miles round. Ten poor fellows were killed, and 40 or 50 others wounded, the destruction to gas property and contiguous houses being considerable. It would be difficult to say that we could now dispense with gas, as with railways or other modern introductions ; nevertheless, we are sensibly alive to the evils which the encroaching monopolists bring to our dwellings— gasometers are erected amidst the densest populations, and railway works are carried close to our parlour windows 5 the latter must be snbmitted to, whilst Acts of Parliament are co easily procured ; but, since we have ocular proof that gas.holders will explode, it is proposed that

they should be kept at a respectable distance. A sale of the valuable ground on which gas works now stand, would provide well for the purchase of other lands and erection of buildings in more appropriate placep, and thus render the removal a boon to all parties, and the subject is to be mooted in Parliament.

Theatricals are reported well-doing, and gorgeous preparations for the forthcoming pantomimes are advertised. The newly built Surrey Theatre is rapidly getting into shape, and Mr Shepherd expects to open before Boxing night. It is now said of Mr Fechter, that he has fallen from his high estate, that his bright promise of teaching us how to play Shakspeare is falsified by his meagre productions; that because we could not, in his Lear and Othello, recognise another Edmund Kean, he resolved on discarding the gentle bard, and confining his genius to melodrama ; be all this as it may, he now opens the Lyceum with a sensation piece called " The Watch Cry," a thing certainly denounced by the press : but denunciation will not perhaps much affect the "model Hamlet" if, like nmny other condemned representations, it fills the treasury.

" Anak looks down on Chang" is a current announcement, implying that the modern Anakite is twice the size of the great Celestial ; this fresh monster exhibits with Professor Anderson; and we are assured that there is no conjuring hocuspocus about it ; if this be true the glory of the Chang is jeopardised. Both gentlemen make the mo~t of their time--hokl three levees daily, and, in the language of one of oui wretched punsters, are highly popular. The Davenport Brothers have again come to grief, and must of course, go further anil fare worse — or better, as the case may be ; their last contretemps was in Paris, and the audience were so vexed at the imposition, that it required the ever persuasive arguments of " kB Sergeants de Ville" to prevent a catastrophe. Antonio Giujrliui, after long suffering, died raving mad in Italy, 12th October, aged 39.

Many of your readers are familiar with our Brompton Consumption Hospital, and will eladly hear of its great benefits being extended. 20 in-patients were lately sent on a twelve-months trial to Madeira, where a sanatorium is established for their cure; the only expense to the hospital is the passage money out and home, the good Samaritans at Madeira defraying all other costs. And should this expedition prove satisfactory there will be accomodation provided on a larger scale, and the poorer class of our sufferers will enjoy that wonderful climate, hitherto beyond their reach.

Elizabeth Gaski.ll, nee Stevenson, our popular writer on domestic life, died 12th instant, aged 43. " Mary Barton" was her first novel. Joseph E.Worcester, LL.D , author of Worcester's dictionary, died in America, October 27th, aged 81. David Le-ter Richardson, soldier and journalist, died last week, aged 64. William Cathrall, one of the pioneers of free trade, died 12th instant, aged 72. Dr John Lindley, our renowned botanist, died Ist instant, aced 06. Dr Pettigrew, a^ed 75 ; Dr E. W. Tuson, 62; and Dr""Wm. Edenbrough, 85, all died la9t week.

The aristocracy lo^es Lady Catherine Berena, aged 84 ; Viscount Dillon, 55 ; Barou Din«dale, 68; Lord Frederick Beauclerk, 57 ; Mr Mills, the banker, (of Gl\n's), aged 73.

British Boxiana, this month, mourns her heroes dead. Ex-champion Hnrry Broome died three weeks ago, aged 39 ; and also, aged 39, the renowned Tom Sayers died Bth instant, and was buried in Highgate cemetery, wit!i more than the honors usually paid to "Pets of the Fancy."

IIor?e-racing has been kept alive at Worcester, Lincoln, Liverpool, Shrewsbury, and Warwick. 18 horses started for the Liverpool Cup on the 10th, and Mr Jackson's iilland won by two lengths. The Shrewsbury Cup was won by Mr Pardoe's Raglan. The sale of Lord Stamford's stud is again announced, and surprises no one. His lordship has had a good spell, and, like most aristocratic turfites, has squandered a fortune at this fascinating game. If he has indeed i»ad enough of it he may now be induced to leave stable boys and blacklegs to take care of themselves, whilst he devotes a portion of his time and talents to the affairs of the nation, and takes a seat amongst his peers in parliament assembled.

The Duncan Dunbar, which left Plymouth, 2nd September, for Sydne3', was wrecked, 17th October, off the Las Roccas reef (Brazilian Coast) — passengers and crew, in all 117 soul?, (after ten days desolatiou and suffering) rescued by the West India mail packet Oneida, and safety brought back to England. A general enquiry into the loss of this ship will shortly take place at Greenwich.

The following snipa have arrivsd here — the William Duthie, from Melbourne ; the Wonsfell, from Sydney; the Ellen Rcse, from Bathurst. The Holmdales, the Maid of Judab, and the London, have also arrived with 200,000az of gold and 140,000 sovereigns. The following have been spoken : — From England to New Zealand: The

Paria, the Ida Ziegler, the Wild Duck, the King of Italy, the London Merchant. From England to Sydney: The Walter Hood, the General Caulfield, the Nourmahal, the Castlemaine. From England to Melbourne: The Sam Cearnes, the Chariot of Fame. From England to Adelaide : The Maori, the Seafield, the Lincoln, the Pekina. The Hindostan, from London to Hobart Town. The Seculus, from Melbourne to London.

The Sultana left Liverpool, 4th instant, with 558 emigrants, for Queensland. The Legion of Honor has also sailfd with emigrants, for Brisbane. The Light of the Age and the Flying Cloud are preparing for the same place at Glasgow. The underground Pneumatic railway,' from Holborn to Euston square, was formally opened 7th instant ; distance, over two miles ; time, seven minutes. To give eclat to the ceremony, some enthusiastic Directors allowed themselves, like so much lumber, to be boxed up and whisked through the bowels of ihe earth, by a puff of wind, and all of them were very glad to see their friends again. This new system of transmitting letters and parcels is to be extensively carried on in London, thereby facilitating thepostofficearrangements, and relieving our over-crowded streets of the traffic, which has become so immense, so inconvenient, and even so alarming, as to induce the Civic authorities to apply for Parliamentary powers to throw foot bridges over the most dangerous crossing?. The case of John Cross, a Dorsetshire laborer, who, for twenty- five years, had worked for one master, and borne a good character, is conspicuous this month. We have heard of Dorsetshire laborers before, and this affair establishes a fact never to be forgotten. In that favored English county, eight shillings a-week is the workman's wage, and with that income, no matter how large the family, Beadledom urges there should be no poverty. Cross had a sick wife and seven children, and, on one fatal evening, in this chilly November, whilst on his road home, he picked up an old hurdle, with which to kindle a fire and cheer his desolate hearth. The owner of this precious property valued it at sixpence, prosecuted the shivering thief before the "great unpaid," and obtained a conviction, with 14 days' imprisonment. But a generous British public came to the rescue of thi3 poor man ; and it is lamentable to reflect that our charitable contributions are attempted to be checked by a class of people, who, in the face of all this, and much more, maintain that the English agricultural laborer is well off — has no incentive to dissatisfaction or crime; and, in fact, that his general condition is a pattern to the world.

A wild animal, of the wolf specie?, was recently destroyed at Ilarrogate, Yorkshire. Ihc ferocious beast had long been a terror to the district, and most destructive amongst the flocks. Should there be any more of the breed, they are likely to have a bad time — tempting rewards being offered, which must ensure extermination. Our waters have recently been extensively patronised by the deep-sea gentry. In addition to the Scotch harpooning a while back, we caught a whale, on 12' th instant, measuring 67 feet in length, at Peven=ey, near Hastings ; and, about the same time, a porpoise, of goodly dimensions, was captured by a young waterman, as high up the river as Teddington. Oil wells are reported in Flintshire, but the extent of their workings do not yet appear in print. The Sheffield flood relief fund is wound up — L 52,014 was originally collected, and a balance of L 28,751 is to be returned to the subscribers.

Nov. 27, 1865.

The Bank rate of discount ruled at 7 per cent, until the 23rd inst., when it fell to 6 per cent. Consols have been below 90 all the month ; latest quotation 89^ for money, and 88f for the account. From Jamaica comes the following telegram via New York, Nov. 18. " Outbreak in Jamaica completely quelled, and no reinforcements of any kind required. 11. M.5. Bulldog, lost at Cape Haitian— all lives saved." We also hear that Toronto iis picketed and every precaution taken against the Fenian raid in Canada. A rupture between France and America was reported, but not confirmed. Great successes by Juarez in Mexico were still the New York topic. It was also said that if the French did not retire before Christmas, the Federal troops would help Juarez.

Peru is said to be assisting Chili against Spain. It is believed that our remonstrances have had effect in Madrid, and that Marshal O'Donnell has countermamled the blockade.

Dublin is much excited — three suspicious vessels have been sighted in the Channel ; Stephens, the '" Head Centre " of Fenianism, has escaped from prison, and is believed to have got out to sea. LI3OO reward is offered for his recapture.

From Calcutta, November 8, we hear of a sudden change in the Hooghiey; the ship Mooltan is neaped, and cannot leave till the 14th, which will cause a delay of

five days in our receipt of your mails next month.

A Bombay telegram, November 18, states that a treaty of peace was signed with Bhootan on the 11th; ample apology made to us, together with a cession of all the Dooars ; free trade established between. British India and Bhootan ; all the prisoners given up. A telegram from Kiel states that Prince Augustenburg is to marry our Princess Helena.

A Divorce Court scandal last week implicated the Duke of St Albans, to the extent of excluding him from Marlborough House.

Violent gales have for some days beea raging over Great Britain, committing sad hnvoc in life and property. General Cameron his arrived here safely ; but the public have heard nothing from him in connection with New Zealand affairs.