COMMERCIAL.

Wellington Independent, Volume XXVI, Issue 3285, 24 August 1871, Page 2

COMMERCIAL.

Dunedin.— The "Times" of August, 17 reports :— A slightly more activo feeling has been apparent in business during the last two or tbree days, but it continues as much a difficulty as previously to make note of any important operations carried through. In nearly all the liquids there has been tho dullest possible feeling. Teas continue to be quitted in fair sized parcels : sales of good medium congous are noted at Is 9A-cl> for halves j and for good ordinary 13 3£d, in larger packages. The stock of sugars has been increased (but very slightly) by the arrival of the Tien Esser, from Mauritius ; but with the probability of the shipment being offered publicly almost immediately, no business from first hands is occurring. Kerosene is reported as placed in trade lots at 2s 3d, and moderate sales of candles at ll£d. Good samples of English malt are also noted as moved at 9s l£~d and 9s 3d. The produce market shows no liveliness, and values have fallen back. Flour is now quoted at £14 to £14 10s, with only a demand for immediate wants. A little better enquiry for oats for export has served to keep the market steady at tho last rates ; for good bright feeding parcels the figure obtainable has been 2s 2d to 2s 3d. Meibottene. — Tho " Argus" of the 11th inst. reports : — Tho markets continue to be unfavorably affected by the state of suspenso in which tho mercantile community is still kept by the absence of a tariff upon which operations may be based. Breadstuff's are firmer, though this remark i 3 as yet more specially applicable to flour, for which a much improved demand has set in. £16 has been frequently refused for Adelaide brand?, duty paid, holders asking £16 5s to £16 10s. Wheat has again attracted speculative attention, about 16,000 bushels Adelaide having changed hands in one line nt a full figure, withheld, but understood to bo more (ban equivalent to the rates hitherto ruling for small lots. In other quarters we hear of offers of 7s having been made and refused. By far the most prominent feature in the day's proceedings Vfaß the totally unexpected arrival of the stamship Bernard, after tho unprocedentedly rapid run of 28 days from Foo-ehow-foo, having on board tho first cargo of now season's teas. Tho consignees havo decided to offer by public Bale on Wednesday next that portion of the cargo intended for the Melbourne market, viz, 759 chests, 8466 half-chests, and 7608 boxes. The remainder of tho cargo, we understand, is to be forwarded to Sydney. Tho qualities comprised in the shipment are all of high grudes. Owing to tho late hour at which tho Bernard reached the bay, tho intelligence to hand regarding the Foo-cbow markets is rather meagre. We learn, however, that in consequence of a largo demand for England and America being met by very short deliveries, prices had advanced. Malt has suddenly sprung into very considerable notice ; nearly

10,000 bushels have been takon up to-day a S3 3d to 8b 6d for fine samples, and some holders are determined to stand out for an advanco somewhat proportionate to the increase in the duty.