AUSTRALIAN NEWS

Globe, Volume XXIII, Issue 2234, 26 April 1881, Page 3

AUSTRALIAN NEWS

[By Tblbgbaph.]

[Per s.s. Rotorua at the Bluff.] MELBOURNE, April 20,

The committee of the Melbourne Presbytery presented their report yesterday in connection with the Rev. Strong's article in the " Victorian Review." The findings aro classed under four heads, the purport of which is that tho article is inconsistent with the infallible truth and divine authority of the Scripture, and leaves out the essential element of Christianity. Three of the committee dissented from most of the report. A " Gazette" notice of April 14th prohibits the importation of British stock into Victoria, in consequence of tho prevalenoe of disease in many centres of the British Isles. The Bruce Auction and Eaßter Fair on the Melbourne Cricket Grounds in aid of the new Homcc spathic Hospital realised over a thousand pounds. About 4000 Victorian Volunteers proceeded to camp out on Good Friday on the Quarantine Station at Portsea. Major Templeton, who commanded, made the most of the time to familiarise the men with the practical work of offensive and defensive operations.

SYDNEY, April 20,

The Board has concluded the inquiry into the Marquis De Ray's immigrants. Deoision has been deferred till Sir H. Parkes considers the report. Lady Loftus was present during part of the inquiry, and Sir H. Parkes and Mr Robertson visited the quarters assigned to the immigrants in the Agricultural Hall. The latter expressed willingness to separate and take situations in ths colony. Chinese merchants anticipate an influx of 50,000 Chinamen to Sydney during the present year. They state that the new arrivals bring little or no money, and are a heavy burden on Chinese residents. The Kenmuir Castle brought a hundred and ninety Chinese for New Zealand, and the Crusader is expected to arrive shortly with a further batch.