AUSTRALIA.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 3379, 6 February 1879, Page 2

AUSTRALIA.

[special.]

MELBOURNE, Feb. 5. The weather is hot and dry everywhere, and sickness is very prevalent amongst clulcfren. An epidemic is feared. Mr Michie resigns the Agent-Generalship, and returns to Victoria in three months. ADELAIDE, Feb. 5. The Government contracts will 'in future include a proviso against the employment of the Chinese. Bush fires are prevalent. Wheat and flour have a downward tendency. Up-country deliveries have been very large, and one firm purchased 100,000 bushela last week. Fifteen parties are out rabbit destroying. BRISBANE, Feb. 5. Mr Shaw, Registrar of the Supreme Court, has resumed his duties. A gentleman named Hyrat died from lockjaw, caused by a bushman's whip cutting bier eye-ball. SYDNEY, Feb. 5. ' A deputation of Chinese interviewed the Colonial Secretary; proffering their assistance to abate immorality amongst low Chinese. Sir H. Parfces promised to consult the In-spector-General, and disclaimed joining in undiscriminating attacks on Chinese character. "VVangheneim, a publican, who is insolvent, alleges as the cause, outlay of money in buying a Government appointment from a man named Somers. This is corroborativo of Mr M'Elhone's charge against Mr Garratfc, formerly Minister of Lands. Neither Eussia nor the Spanish Colonies will bo represented at our Exhibition, the former for want of time and the latter from financial embarrassment.

[Renter's Telegrams.]

MELBOURNE, Fbb. 5.

The Bank of Victoria has declared a dividend of 10 per cent for the year. £115,000 has been transferred from the reserve fund to the suspense account.

A number of small failures are reported. Arrived — Albion, from Wellington.