AUSTRALIA.

Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume 3, Issue 267, 7 February 1879, Page 2

AUSTRALIA.

Melbourne, Feb. 5. The weather is hot and dry everywhere, and sickness is very' prevalent amongst children. An epidemic is feared. '"' Mr Michie resigned the Agent-Gene-ralship and returns to Victoria in three months. , s . Adelaide, Feb. 5. The Government contracts will in future include a proviso against the employment of 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-irashels lasfc-w'eek.. Sydney, Feb.. 5. A deputation:.of/Chinese' interviewed the Colonial Secretary, proffering their assistance' to 'abate'A the. immorality amongst I low Chinese.. Sir JS Parkes promised to consult the InspectorGeneral, ' and disclaimed ■ joining In-, undiscriminating attacka.=on the Chinese character:'' '- i; ' '•■"•"' ' - 1 Wangheneim, a publican, who is insolvent, alleges as the cause, outlay of money in buying a Government appointment from a man named Somers. This is corroborative of Mr M'Elhone's charge against Mr Garratt, formerly Minister of Lands. ~:' ;

Neither Russia , nor the Spanish Colonies will be represented at our Exhibition, the former for want of time, and the latter from financial embarrass-, ment. ' i -'" , -'"'.;\" ;;:I