Town News.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 226, 8 January 1876, Page 14

Town News.

His Honor the Chief Justice left for Blenheim on Monday, for the purpose of holding a sitting of the Circuit Court at that town. A telegram, dated Saturday, says, “ A severe shock of earthquake was felt at the Bluff at ten minutes past one this morning ; direction, east to west.

Mr. C. E. Haughton desires a contradiction by him of a statement by us that he was actively engaged on the Hutt elections on polling day.

On Saturday evening a ball was given in the Odd Fellows’ Hall. Being New Year’s Eve, there was a large attendance. The affair was well managed and passed off successfully. The slight earthquake felt here on the evening of the 4tli inst. was not felt at Wanganui, Opunakc, Castle Point, or Taupo ; but there was a slight shock felt at Napier shortly after midnight. In another column is published a list of the handicaps declared at the Pier Hotel last night, in connection with the sports to be hold on Saturday next. As will be seen, there are a large number of entries.

The men Reidal and Paid have not changed since we last wrote of them. Occasionally the mind is found wandering ; but generally speaking, they are sensible the whole day through—and are even lively. The hospital authorities are doing all in their power, and ai - e astonished at having managed to keep life in so long ; but that the ultimate result will be fatal, there is too much reason to fear:

The City Council have decided to dispense with the services of a piermaster. The Karori Cricket Club have announced a soiree at the Odd Fellows’ Hall on Wednesday evening, 12th inst., in aid of the funds of the team about to visit the West Coast.

The final shooting for classification for contesting for Government prizes was to have taken place on Thursday morning, but owing to the wet weather, the colonel commanding postponed the firing till Monday, at 5.30 a.m. The new building opposite the Tliorndon Railway Station is more ornamental than profitable, since the Licensing Court refused to give a license to the proprietor. Having been built for an hotel business, it would scarcely be suitable for a private house. The following is a return of patients in the Provincial Hospital during and ending the month of Becember, 3 875: —Admitted—Males, 24; females, 3. Bischarged Males, IS; females, 6. Died—Male, 1 ; female, 1. Left in hospital—Males, 41 ; females, 5. Total remaining, 46. On New Year’s Eve special services were held at St. Paul’s, St. Peter’s, Manners-street, and other churches. At the two former the service was over shortly after 9 o’clock, but in the Wesleyan Church the watchnight service did not terminate until after the advent of the new year.

Buring the year 1875, the births, marriages, and deaths registered in Wellington were as follows:—Births, 694 ; certificates of marriage issued, 83 ; deaths, 28S ; still births, 13. Total for Wellington district for 1575: —Births, 943 ; certificates of marriage, 287 ; deaths, 373 ; still births, 28. In 1574, the totals for the district were:—Births, 833 ; deaths, 359. The site for the new English Church at the Hutt is in a central position, being a short way from the Hutt side of the bridge. The money realised from tnq/course of lectures delivered by the Hewitt will be devoted to the funds for greeting the church, which will be accomplished as soon as possible. '

The following is a list of the immigrants expected to arrive by the ship Shakspere, which sailed from Hamburg on the 7th October, 1875 :—Married couples without children —4 laborers, 6 farm laborers. Married couples with children—lo laborers, 28 farm laborers. Single men—ls 3, stated to be farm laborers. Single women—37. We would impress upon the members of both boating clubs in Wellington the necessity of systematic practice, in anticipation of the regatta meeting, which is to take place on the 22nd of the present month. There only remains two weeks before the interprovincial competition will take place, and the credit of Wellington in matters aquatic must be maintained if p'ossible. We have been requested to state that there is no foundation whatever for the statement in an Auckland telegram published by us elsewhere, to the effect that Sir Julius Vogel’s candidature for the Thames had been accepted. Sir Julius is a candidate for a seat at Wanganui, and if elected for that constituency, of which there can be little doubt, he will represent it in the General Assembly.

A man named Peter Hansen was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment at the Resident Magistrate’s Court, on Thursday, for stealing a swag from a man named George Lynn, at Featherston. It appears that Lynn started in pursuit of the thief, and overtook him at the Taita, and left him in charge of the landlord of the hotel there, and going further on for a policeman, gave him into custody on a charge of larceny. The question of a railway wharf for Wellington is beginning to assume a more definite shape now, and the mercantile public will be glad to learn that the Government are acting with energy in the matter. Captain Johnston has now completed the soundings, and has reported that the position selected, viz., opposite the Public Works Office, is very suitable, there being a capital depth of water. Plans and specifications are in course of preparation. The pleasure trips to Picton, announced for New Year’s Bay, were not run, owing to the wet weather. At S o’clock in the morning some seventy brave spirits (though the incentive to bravery was perhaps the fact that the tickets had been purchased) presented themselves at the wharf, but the money was returned. A fairly large number of persons went by the railway excusion to Silver Stream. In another column we publish the timetable of the Bnion Steam Ship Company for the month of January, from which it will be observed that the steamers of the company leave Wellington, both for the North and the South, on the 6th inst., after which they are timed to depart from here for the North every Thursday, and South every Friday. The arrangement for departure on fixed days of the week should be of advantage to the travelling public. The ever popular artiste Mrs. George Harrell will make her re-appearance for a short season of twelve nights only at the Theatre Royal, on Monday evening next, in George Darrell’s highly successful historical sensation drama, entitled “ The Struggle for Freedom.” The piece, we are informed, will be produced with elaborate scenic and mechanical effect, and that same attention with regard to completeness of detail which lias characterised the management of the present lessees. The municipal authorities have improved the corner opposite Collins’ Albion Hotel, which was previously a species of man-trap. There was and is still a deep drain running parallel with the street, the open part terminating at the corner, from which point the drain runs under the road, but as there was no fence to prevent unwary travellers falling in on dark nights, when it is difficult to pick one’s steps, the locality was very dangerous. Now, however, the drain has been fenced in, and the sides thereof have been blocked up with stone.

I A man named William Forbes was arrested I and sentenced to six months on Monday for ! stealing a gold pin and chain with trinkets, j from the Family Hotel at the Hutt. The j capture was very cleverly effected by Detective Farrell, who had very little certain information to go upon, and when the individual was brought up to court, he pleaded guilty. Sergeant Monaghan giving the man a very bad character, he was given the full penalty. On the 4th inst. telegrams giving intimation of the approach of gales from between northeast and south were sent to all stations in this island. On the sth the wind, which had been from the southward for some days, increased in force, and was soon afterwards blowing hard at nearly all places south of East Cape. At Gisborne the gale was very heavy, and the bad weather continued up to a late hour yesterday. Great quantities of rain have fallen, and many of the rivers are flooded. All recent shipping arrivals report having experienced strong southerly gales and a high sea. At four o’clock on Thursday afternoon the following applications had been received for land in the Rangitumau block :—Thomas Hurley, 300 acres ; John Morrisson, 50 acres ; Angus Morrisson, 100 acres ; A. A. Banner, 200 acres ; Cuff and Graham, 150 acres, 850 acres, and 400 acres ; 11. A. Nalder, 500 acres; J. F. Ward, 200 acres ; W. Ward, 200 acres ; J. M. Cleland, 500 acres, 500 acres, and 1000 acres ;J. Houston, 300 acres. Of these the applications of T. Hurley, John Morrisson, Cuff and Graham (150 acres and 400 acres), and T. M. Cleeland (500 acres), are in different instances for similar land. The proceedings were at four o’clock therefore adjourned until noon yesterday. The man Smat was brought up at the Resident Magistrate’s Court on Monday, and further particulars in connection with the dreadful scene in which he was the chief actor were elicited. Smat seems to feel his position acutely. He has changed much since he was arrested. If the man’s bearing is an index of what is passing within, Smat would seem to be in abject fear of the result of the trial. He was taken before the unfortunate men Reidal and Paul on Monday, that evidence might be taken in his presence, but he did not appear to be in any way affected by the sight of his victims, who presented a most pitiable spectacle. As will be seen by the report of Monday’s court proceedings, Smat was remanded till Monday next. The wharf was the principal attraction on New Year’s Eve. Shortly before midnight the bells were manned, fireworks brought out, and guns loaded, and the new year was welcomed with a terrific clanging and a grand display of fireworks. From most of the vessels rockets were discharged, but the officers of the Chile were the most extravagant. From this ship poured forth a continuous stream of rockets, Roman candles, bluelights, and squibs, though the Border Chief was the only vessel of which the yards were illuminated. Fully a thousand people were on the wharf, but those stationed on the Terrace and other elevated parts of the city or Te Aro, witnessed the spectacle to the best advantage. The twenty-second annual edition of the Wellington Almanac, printed at the New Zealand Times office, has just been published. This useful work has been prepared with great care, to judge from a hasty perusal of its contents, and may certainly claim to be what is asserted in the preface, namely, a book “ containing much valuable information most suitable for mercantile and nautical men.” In this there is nothing exaggerated, and in every respect it is a most complete directory and calendar. A large space is filled with ample sailing directions, that cannot fail of proving useful to persons interested in marine matters. The gardeners’ calendar covers many pages of matter interesting and instructive to the agriculturalist, and the pastoral guide is particular and complete. It contains also all information to be found in other almanacs, faithfully collected, and taken as a whole if will be found extremely useful for office and general purposes, not only as a calendar and directory, but for general and useful information. A serious and fatal boat accident happened at Pahautanui on Sunday morning. It appears that Master Charles Brandon, accompanied by two other youths and Mr. Lowndes, went for a sail on the bay, and when near Long Point a sudden squall caught the boat and upset her. Mr. Lowndes told the boys to hang on to the boat, and lie then swam off with the intention of reaching the shore to get assistance. The boys clung to the boat for some time, and then swam off to Mr. Brown’s boat, which was anchored at a short distance. They all three succeeded in reaching her, and after they had been in her for a few minutes they saw the body of Mr. Lowndes floating by with the head under water. They managed to get hold of it and drag it in, and found life extinct. They then called for assistance, and Mr. Bavid Brown was made aware of their position, and went off immediately with another boat to their rescue, and took them back to Mr. Lowndes’ residence.

Numerous complaints have been made regarding the neglected condition of Tory-street from a sanitary point of view. This is a matter which should receive the immediate attention of the municipal authorities, for the sake of the public health. We know that the demands upon the exchequer aro large, and that the number of matters requiring the consideration of those in authority are calculated to bewilder. Therefore, people might be supposed to contemplate rugged roads and hillocky footpaths with a philosophical fortitude. But in such cases as this to which reference is now made, any neglect to take remedial measures is positively reprehensible, as the health of the residents in that street is endangered by the stagnant water that has been permitted to accumulate there. There are other cases that might be pointed to, and now that we have fairly entered the summer months, we cannot devote too much care to sanitary matters—in

a town, moreover, where the drainage is admittedly defective. It will be too late to wake up to a sense of our responsibilities when disease makes its appearance in our midst, should such an event happen ; and it should always be remembered that “ prevention is better than cure.”

Some time since we gave a full description of the plans from which was to be built the new Union Bank. That building is now nearly completed; in fact, little but the work of fitting and furnishing remains to be done, and it must be admitted that the structure does the architect, Mr. Toxward, and Mr. McKenzie, the contractor, very great credit. It should be scarcely necessary to inform readers that the building is situated at the junction of Feathcrston-street and Lambtonquay, and that for such a building the site possesses great advantage, being not only central, but very prominent. It is a most handsome building, both inside and out. Although not very large, it is yet handsome and imposing, and is certainly an ornament to the locality in which it is situated. Now that the present holiday season may. be considered at an end, sports and pastimes over, it is only just to the caterers of the public amusements to record the gratuitous benevolence to the inmates of the Mount View Asylum. First, the Order of Foresters have for two years past granted as mauy free admissions to their annual fete as could be made available ; this we believe is an acknowledgment of the kindly treatment of one of their order who was for some time a patient. Secondly, the lessee of the Theatre Royal, Mr. George Darrell, informed the authorities of the asylum of his willingness to admit such convalescent and other patients as they might think fit to attend the performances. Advantage was taken of this kind offer on the afternoon performance of the pantomime on Friday last, when about ten of the female patients and attendants were admitted. Nothing in the behaviour of the patients while there elicited any comment, being perfectly quiet and orderly ; and Mr. Harrell has signified his willingness to give free admission to the convalescent patients and their attendants at any future time, the only condition being that previous application shall be made. Thirdly, the Caledonian Society, represented by George Crawford, Esq., have every year since the removal of the asylum to Mount View, granted free admission to the sports of any number of patients whom the asylum authorities thought fit to attend, and on Saturday last several of the male patients, in charge of an attendant, were on the Cricket Ground, and appeared to enjoy the sports, that enjoyment being heightened in some instances by the patients meeting with their friends from country districts. We mention these things incidently as encouragement to others to follow so good an example.

The Roman Catholic bazaar was formally opened shortly after two o’clock on Tuesday afternoon at the Odd Fellows’ Hall. There are five large stalls, at which fancy and useful goods are sold, and a very large and excellent collection there is. Generally speaking, the articles are of a description superior to those ordinarily seen at bazaars. The French goods are very rare—the designs being so novel —and worked up with a taste and finish which is seldom to be found in English fancy goods. It would be tedious to enumerate the different items in the collection, which vary from valuable watches and clocks to ladies’ companions, inkstands, and dolls of all kinds. Some of these latter are gorgeously-attired “ brides,” and others, if less loud in dress, are infinitely more noisy, as they are so ingeniously constructed that it is quite common to be chased by them and plaintively addressed as “ pa ” or “ ma.” Of the English goods the most particularly noticeable are the handsome cushions. and ottomans in raised woolwork, which are really more than creditable proof of the skill of the young ladies of New Zealand. There are several good oil paintings, aneroids, barometers, &c., and we feel bound to say that throughout the bazaar the goods are ticketed at very reasonable prices. Over No. 1 stall Mrs. J. O’Shea presides, assisted by Mrs. Clifford, Mrs. O’Neill, and Miss Vallance. No. 2, entitled St. Patrick’s stall, is under the charge of Miss Kelly, who has a host of assistants. The Hibernian Arcade, No. 3. stall, is under the charge of Mrs. Brown and Mrs. O’Meai-a, and at No. 4 are Miss Johnston and Mrs. Vallance. No. 5 is in charge of Mrs. and Miss Thomas and Miss Percival, and Mrs. Pagan and Mrs. Morgan have the refreshment stall. The Bishop arrived about two o’clock, and in attendance were the Rev. Fathers Petit Jean, Chaitaigner, and other members of the clergy. After some selections of music had been performed by Messrs. Cemino and Marshall, the Bishop proceeded to formally open the bazaar. He said he was aware the present was not a time for a speech, as all seemed inclined to work rather than talk, but he could not refrain from expressing the pleasure it gave him to be present. Firstly, because it was the first bazaar he had the honor of opening in the city of Wellington, and secondly, he was gratified at being able to assist the object for which the bazaar had been arranged, viz., the help of the good sisters who were doing so much in the cause of the education of the young. And he would take the opportunity of thanking the Wellington public for the hearty sympathy and co-operation they had always accorded when such efforts were being made. While thanking them for the past favors, he must also ask for their co-operation in the future. He saw ladies all round were eager for the fray, and, therefore, should not detain them longer. He knew they had carefully organised their forces, and was quite sure they would win the battle, and he hoped that those whose privilege it would be to be defeated during the coming contest would take their beating in good part, knowing that it was in such a contest better to be defeated than to win. (A laugh). He then declared the bazaar open, and an energetic lady began the battle by attacking the Bishop, who had no alternative from gracefully and pleasantly allowing himself to be “ fleeced,” as some one

vulgarly put it. A good business was carried on all the afternoon, his Excellency the Governor and Lady Normanby being amongst the purchasers, and during the evening the hall was crowded. The cash talcing for the day amounted to about £l2O, of which £lO 15s. was taken at the door for admission fees. The bazaar was tolerably well attended on Thursday afternoon and evening, although, as it unfortunately happened, the weather was very unfavorable ; but the ladies were untiring in their efforts to dispose of the goods, and of course all of the male sex who entered the hall had to part with their money, which is only natural, as a moment’s reflection should be sufficient to show. The result of the day’s sales and entrance money was represented by about £IOO, which makes the takings for three days £320. Jt was decided to keep the bazaar open yesterday and to-day and by that time we have no doubt the ladies will have disposed of all their wares.

Hunter’s wharf on Te Aro Beach has caved in. This wharf was what the American’s would call “an institution ” of Wellington in past days ; and while Wellington has been growing rich in more imposing structures, this one has been decaying away, and two days since gave the first sign of an approaching general collapse. The crew of the Kate Monaghan, which went ashore in the Manawatu river, left the vessel on Thursday morning. Mr. Cook, of Foxton, on behalf of the Insurance Company, we believe, proceeded to the spot with twenty men, and succeeded in landing eighteen tons of iron. But that amount scarcely represents a fifth of what she would carry. When Mr. Cook left her at low water, the waves were washing over her hull, and she was fast sinking in the sand. She will likely be a total wreck. The Lilly Hawkins, which went ashore at the same time and place as the Kate Monaghan, has got off, and is now lying at Eoxton wharf.

There was a fair attendance at the Theatre Royal on Thursday night, despite the wretchedly inclement weather. It was to be regretted that the night was not finer, as the burlesque proved unusually attractive, new songs being introduced.' Thus, Miss Morgan sang “ Silver Threads amongst the Gold,” and sang with such sweetness and expression as obtained for her an enthusiastic call. Miss Morgan responded, by singing “Twilight in the Park.” It is desired to draw particular attention to the fact that Mr. Oily Deering takes a benefit to-night, and that a canine performer —one Giff, a dog much respected and admired by a select circle of acquaintances—will make his appearance. Let it be distinctly undei’stood that Giff is not to be classed among your ordinary performing dogs, even such as we have seen in the Holborn Amphitheatre. He is a prince of educated dogs, and will no doubt do his utmost to please this evening, because, being of an observant turn of mind, he has no doubt a due appreciation of the merits of Mr. Deering, who, during the representation of the pantomime, and on other occasions, has succeeded in entertaining Wellington audiences with his humorous acting. He will no doubt have a good house.

The sitting of the City Council on Thursday was more than ordinarily important. A variety of matters were dealt with, including the question of wharf management. It seems the Council desire to take the immediate management of the wharf into their own hands to endeavor to do away with the causes of the present loud complaints. However, the present lessee recommends them to wait till after the wool season, as any change just now would interfere with business. The report of the Sanitary Inspector brought some important matters under consideration, as did also the Public Works Committee’s report ; but the most important was the report of the committee appointed to report on the letter of the City Auditors. In effect the report recommended a new system of bookkeeping. This was not sufficient for Councillor Gillon, who immediately afterwards gave notice of a motion for a complete reform of the Corporation affairs, which only needed the insertion of a word or two providing for the dissolution of the Council to make it complete. Councillor Pharazyn followed with a notice of motion for depriving the Mayor of his salary, and this brought an eventful meeting to a close. The weather of late has been admittedly bad—indeed, it has been rather worse than that, and the only good that comes out of it is that it gives people something to talk about at a, time when gossiping matter is scarce. Of course, such weather has never been seen in Wellington before. That is a point which has to be admitted right off, as it were, for the credit of the town and province. And in this respect we of Wellington are in some degree like unto the residents of that miserable, swampy, slime-becursed and God-forsaken spot, Eden, which Dickens describes in his scenes from American life in early times. Most persons will remember the reply which an emaciated and “pestilence-stricken” countryman made to Mark when asked whether he thought Eden was “ swampy.” As a true patriot, he could not be got to admit more than that it was “ moist, perhaps, at certain times.” In the same spirit we, in speaking of our climate, must speak of it gently, although feelingly. One says that we never had such weather before.. Another recollects that Wellington was similarly stricken some eight years ago, for a short time—being a draper, he remembers the time, on account of having sold an extra quantity of waterproofs and° umbrellas. An older resident, again, declares that the above is a mistake, but is prepared to admit that we had weather something approaching what we at present experience some forty years ago, but he puts that down to an uncommonly sharp shock of earthquake that occurred about that time. "Whichever way we regard it, however, it is gratifying to feel that we have at last achieved something worth speaking of in the shape of weather ; but once having seen what we are capable of, no. one will, perhaps, regret when Wellington once more becomes natural and sublime. ,

Saul got amongst the prophets, and the Otago Daily Times is now amongst the plagiarists. In recent issues it copies a portion of our report of proceedings at the Country Districts nomination, and condenses our account of the Hutt outrage, both without acknowledgement. Mr. Wm. A. Murray, recently returned unopposed as member for Bruce, subsequently addressed his constituents in the Town Hall, Milton. When he commenced to speak there were twelve persons present ; when he concluded, thirty. The numbers are accounted for by the generally vividly interesting nature of Mr. W. A. Murray’s speeches. We have been authorised to state positively that the allegations in connection with the Artillery Band at the Caledonian games, made at a meeting of the committee on Wednesday, are quite without foundation. We are satisfied that in the matter of refreshment it is the band that has reason to complain. The business at the Resident Magistrate’s Court yesterday was of an unimportant character. Jane Ashbridge, charged on remand with assaulting her daughter, was committed to gaol for two months with hard labor ; John Colville, charged with stealing from the person, was dismissed, as there was not sufficient evidence to convict; William Clout was fined 605., for committing a breach of the peace ; and a charge against John Foster, of wilful damage, was struck out, as it was not within the jurisdiction of the Court. The conduct of the returning officer at Port Chalmers on nomination day seems to have been somewhat extraordinary, according to the Guardian. After Mr. Reynolds had answered such questions as were put to him, the returning officer called for a show of hands, first for that gentleman and then for Mr. Green. Having counted out he declared a tie, but this the friends of either side would not accept, pressing for a second count. The returning officer endeavored to appease both parties by assuring them that a show of hands was practically of no consequence, and urged the acceptance of his decision. The uproar, however, was so great that he could not further resist the pressure. On the second attempt he made the show of hands 40 for Mr. Reynolds and 42 for Mr. Green, although it was patent to the most casual observer that the number held up for Mr. Reynolds was far in excess of that shown for Mr. Green. After some delay and discussion, Mr. Reynolds, in order to put an end to the dispute, said he would demand a poll. When the proposal was made by Mr. Green that the usual vote of thanks should be accorded the returning officer, there was a general shout of “ No, no ” —a testimony to the fact that a wrong—unintentionally, no doubt—was committed. A singular accident occurred on the Hutt road on Monday last ; and it turned out a very amusing one, likewise, though the consequence to one of those concerned might have been serious. A laborer was wending his way along the road close to the hill side, when presently he heard a slight noise above him, and before he had time to look up, was knocked down, when he found that a fair-sized goat was lying within a foot of his head. He got up, and roused the goat, whose leg appeared to be broken, it having besides a severe cut on the head. The goat must have missed its footing, and stepped over a crag, although it is difficult to account for the accident at all, goats being such sure-footed animals. The man was not hurt, and related the incident afterwards with great relish. We were shown yesterday a photograph of the first crushing machine used on the Thames goldfield. It is quite a curiosity, especially in these days, when quartz crushing machinery has been to such a large extent improved upon. At the time this photograph was taken, Grahamstown—now covered with houses, and containing a large population—was little better than a swamp, and the hills were covered with a dense bush. This little machine, of four wooden stampers, steel capped, was situated on the ground now occupied by the immense works of the United Pumping Association ; with the three stampers the owners could crush only one ton of stuff per day. The modern stampers of superior weight are supposed to crush one ton each per day ; but as the machine was primitive, so was the necessity for it the greater, and £l4 a ton was obtained for ci’ushing, while in these days the most given for crushing is from 13s. to 15s. per ton. The owners of the machine were Messrs. Dixon and W. M. Baines, the later being the author of a very readable novel, entitled “ Edward Crew.”

THE LION FOUNDRY. Since the Tui was built by a Dunedin firm it has frequently been asked in Wellington, “ Could we not build such vessels here ?” Of this there is little doubt, as anyone qualified to judge may ascertain by inspecting the Lion Foundry. But in order that the extern; of the plant may be generally known, we give the following description of the foundry works. Taking the different departments in the order in which they are used in the construction of machinery, we come first to the pattern-room. In the Lion Foundry this is a large compartment, fitted with requisite tools, and here men are constantly employed making patterns of the many and various orders received. For the object in view it is not necessary to dwell on the interesting nature of this work, so we may pass on to the moulding-room, in which the moulds are made from patterns. Here there are a number of men regularly employed making moulds for almost everything connected with ironwork and machinery. Moulding is a distinct branch of the business, and requires those who are engaged in it to be practised and efficient hands, inasmuch as the slightest error or fault in the formation of the moulds, which are made of earth, will render the cast defective. In connection with this department there are three furnaces for moulding iron, and two brass furnaces, and one large stove (aboixt the size of a small room)

for drying the cores required to place in the moulds. It is estimated that at the very least they are capable of making a moulding to the extent of four or five tons. They have already moulded three tons, but that is looked upon as a small matter. In the smiths’ shop there are eight fires, constantly alight, and here there is a steam hammer of tremendous power. In the boiler department there are five fires, and rollers for flattening and thinning the sheets of iron when hot. The process of rolling the iron is (when seen) a simple matter, but it is very curious to witness a piece of iron placed in this machine—which looks like a gigantic mangle —and tui'ned out on the other side like a pressed quilt. Next we come to the fitting shop, and here all the machinery is driven by one powerful engine, the connection between the engine-room and fitting department being effected by a shaft some 60 or 70ft. in length, to which are attached bands that twist and turn about in all ways, according to the direction of the different pieces of machinery that are required to be worked. In the first place there is a large lathe, 25ft. in the bed, and which is quite capable of taking in any wheel up to 28ft. in diameter. Besides this, however, there are three other screw cutting lathes —two of them measuring 16ft. in length, and one 18ft. There is also one smaller turninglathe, and a screwing machine for cxxtting threads in bolts, which is capable of screwing (as it is technically described) up to two inches ; but the power does not stop here, because what this screwing machine will not take in can be manipulated in the larger lathes. There are also two boring and two planing machines. Leaving the fitting shop, we pass into a lai’ge room, which is used for putting the machinery together after the parts thereof have been manufactured, by passing through the different departments above described. This room is kept clear of implements, save those that are immediately required for use on the works in hand, as the main object here is to have plenty of room. The Lion Foundry has already tui'ned out some extensive work, and are daily executing orders, the magnitude of which should be sufficient to convince us that t'he firm of Mills Brothers are capable of turning out work equal to Auckland or Dunedin firms. There are now a number of lai’ge jobs in hand, and a quantity of the small work which is constantly being sent in from town and country.

INQUEST ON TPIE FIRE. An inquest was held on Friday on the late fire in Mr. Aplin’s premises, before Dr. Johnston, coroner, and a jury, in the Criterion Hotel. Mr. Izard appeared to watch the proceedings on behalf of Mr. Aplin ; Mr. Moorhouse, for Mr. Schwartz, who was interested in part of the stock destroyed. The jury having viewed the premises, returned to hear evidence. Peter Doile, having been sworn, deposed : I am a master mariner residing in Wellington, at therearof Aplin’s premises. On the 28thinstant, at about half-past four o’clock in the morning, my attention was called to the fire by my children, who were disturbed by the heat of the fire and unusual noise. On looking out of the window I saw fire issuing from the skylight in the centre of the music store owned by Mr. Aplin. Having called out fire, I started to ring the alarm bell. When I returned the flames were issuing from the door at the back of the building. Only three or four people had collected at the building up to this time. The fire brigades soon arrived, and I then assisted them, and did not go to the front of the building again. I should judge from the appearances I have described, that the fire must have originated in the centre of the building. By Mr. Izard : I went to bed at 11 o’clock the night preceding the fire, but heard no one moving about Aplin’s premises, or after going to bed.

. Harry Bowler deposed : I am a settler, residing in Wellington. I was passing Aplin’s premises on the night of 27th December. I had been to the theatre and was returning, and passed the premises about midnight. I saw nobody about there and no sign of fire —no light at all. I did not light a pipe there. William Alexander deposed: lam a mariner living in Wellington. I live in a house next to the burnt building. There is a narrow passage between the two buildings. My bedroom adjoins the passage. I went to bed about 12 o’clock on Monday the 27th. About twenty minutes past 12 o’clock (before I went to sleep), I heard a rumbling noise in the passage and against the wall of my room, which is on the ground floor. It sounded like someone staggering against the wall. I was a little startled at first, but upon listening everything remained quiet for about five minutes, when I heard again a light noise, as if a person had moved along. I then went to sleep. I heard no more till about half-past four in the morning, when I heard a noise like dishes falling or glass breaking. I did not rise at once. On getting up I looked at the watch. It was then a quarter to five. I looked out of the window, and saw in the street a man, who said “ there is a fire,” and proceeded up the street. I then ran out, and saw fire issuing from the centre of Mr. Aplin’s premises, through the skylight. I am the only one sleeping in the room adjoining the passage. By Mr. Izard: The noise I heard in the passage was such as would be made by any person walking down or up the passage, liecause the passage is so narrow that it is almost impossible to pass without touching the walls.

By the Foreman : I would not like to say that it was a human being I heard in the passage.

By Mr. Mooi'house : I cannot describe or identify the person whom I saw in the street on looking out of the window. Hugh Aplin deposed : I am a music-seller, and was the occupiex’ of the premises lately burnt on Lambton-quay. I was on the premises last about 4 o’clock on Monday afternoon. I was engaged making oxxt the Christmas accounts. My front shop had been re-

moved, and I carried on my business in the show-room at the back, where I was from halfpast 2 till 4 o’clock, when I left. There was no one with me. I was living in Murphystreet. I had been using :uo fire all that day. I do not smoke, and had lighted no matches during that day (in the building). There are several doors, all of which were fastened when I left, and one doorway was boarded up, so that no one could enter the building without using violence. I went to the theatre in the evening, and remained there till the close of the performance, and then went straight home, passing the shop. I looked towards the building, as I usually do, but I saw no one about. Between half-past 5 and 6 next morning I was aroused by the wife of one of my employees, who told me my shop was on fire. I immediately went down, but the fire was well under when I arrived. Everything was destroyed except a few sewing machines and tools.

By Mr. Izard : The stock was composed of pianos, fancy goods, stationery, games of all kinds, chimney ornaments, glassware, Chinese goods, and a host of other things. The gas had been cut off owing to alterations in the front premises, and on Christmas Eve we lit up with lamps aud candles. The stock was insured for £Boo—£4oo in the Imperial, and £4OO in the Standard. My books were on the premises—none were saved. I have had no quarrel with any one, and do not know that anybody bears mo ill will. The building is insured for £4OO in the Standard, in accordance with the terms of my lease. This money is subject to be spent in rebuilding the premises. By Mr. Moorhouse: There were eight pianos ©n the premises. They were all burnt. Four of them belonged to Mr. Schwartz, one to Mr. Donnecker, and three to myself. The four pianos belonging to Mr. Schwartz were worth over £2OO. These were not insured. I did not agree to sell for Mr. Schwartz at 5 per cent, inclusive of all charges. He was to pay charges, such as advertising, tuning, &c. I make out the value of the goods lost from memory, and by the money due on the goods. There was no chimney or fireplace on the premises which were destroyed. The Coroner having formally addressed the jury, the following verdict was returned, “ That there was no evidence to show how the fire originated.”

CITY COUNCIL. Thursday, January 6. Present—His Worship the Mayor, Councillors Cleland, George, Gillon, Greenfield, Mills, Moss, Rainie, and Pharazyn. MINUTES. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed. correspondence. A letter was read from Mr. Jackson, lessee of the wharf, asking that his term of rental might be extended to the Ist of April, because of the confusion and inconvenience to all parties of transferring charge in the midst of the wool season. He stated that he had spoken to many of the leading merchants and persons interested, and all were convinced of the inadvisableness of making changes during the wool season. Referred to the Wharf Committee. Messrs. Henderson and O’Neill wrote stating in effect that owing to some informality, it liacl been necessary to issue fresh notices iu respect of the new tramway, and operations had to be commenced de novo. They also mentioned that Mr. T. K. Macdonald was a partner, and desired his name to be inserted in all agreements. The matter was referred to the Public Works Committee, with power to act. PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE REPORT. The following was read : “ 1. Your committee have to report that the City Surveyor has accepted a price for about two tons of iron gratings, and that they will probably lie delivered here in May next. “2. With regard to unfinished works the Surveyor has been instructed to attend to all works in the order in which they appear in the order-book, pressing or urgent works excepted. “ 3. The Surveyor has also been instructed to call for tenders for the formation, &c., of Haining-street. “4. On further consideration the committee are of opinion that tenders for the formation of Davis-street should not be. called for, for the present. “5. On a letter from Mr. E. Brandon, re footpath Boulcott-street, the committee have instructed the Surveyor to attend to this work as per instructions. (See No. 2.)” PIERMASTER’S REPORT. The Piermaster reported that the cranes and jil ant generally on the wharf were in good repair. TIIE SANITARY INSPECTOR’S REPORT. The following ■was read : “ I have the honor to lay before you the following report: “1. That the practice of removing nightsoil surreptitiously is on the increase, and that I cannot, without assistance, prevent it. I frequently find it thrown carelessly into the creeks, and on one occasion I found it on- the street.

“ 2. With regard to the drainage of Willisstreet, the work is not yet completed, and several more people have applied to share in the benefit (of course they are to pay for it), and I beg of the Council to allow me to extend the work so far as people wish it.

“3. I have had well-grounded complaints of the state of Alma-lane, off Tory-street. I believe the residents are as a rule prepared to pay for the drainage of that place to the Ade-laide-road stream ; hut as it will be an unusually large work, I have to beg permission of the 'Council, to perform it. The cost to each proprietor will not be great. “4. Many people are anxious to have their places drained, but don’t know how to go about it. I think a system of temporary drainage would be very beneficial, such as, for instance, would serve for ten or fifteen years, or longer. The expense will not be great, and I believe will be paid cheerfully.

“5. The drainage from the Immigration Barracks’ closet, which has been such a trouble to me, will, through the attention of the Colonial Architect, be remedied in a few days. u 6. The cattle-wandering nuisance is increasing, and I find it impossible to stop it without more efficient assistance, which cannot be procured for one shilling per head impounded.” Referred to Public Works Committee. INTERIM REPORT OP THE WHARF COMMITTTEE. The following interim report was brought up and read : “ Your committee have the honor to report that they have devoted their attention to the question of the best mode of managing the Queen’s wharf during the next year, and. they are decidedly of opinion that it is desirable that the Council should talce into its own hands the collection of wharf charges, under schedules 1 and 11 of wharf regulations. «They also recommend that the weighbridge should be kept in the hands of the Council. “With reference to the Queen’s warehouse and sheds, the committee recommend that the tolls and charges for these shall be let as heretofore, by public auction in one lot. “The committee further recommend that the right of supplying the water to the shipping at the wharf be let by auction. “°They are of opinion that the steam hoists, cranes, and plant generally should be kept in the hands of the Council, and under their entire management and control. j n<. “ The committee are now carefully considering the wharf regulations, with a view to their revision and amendment, and they propose to take evidence in relation thereto. . At the earliest possible opportunity the committee will report fully to a special meeting of the Council on the whole subject. Meantime the committee ask for authority to advertise for applications for the several situations which will have to be filled in connection with the Council assuming charge of the wharf, and also for authority to advertise the letting of the Queen’s bond and sheds and water supply. “The committee do not recommend a renewal of the Piermaster’s engagement, which expires on the 31st inst. The Mayor, in bringing this report under the notice of the Council, said it suggested changes of a very important character, which ought to be well considered. Councillor Mills moved the adoption of the report as read. Councillor G-ILLON seconded, and remarked that the committee intended to take the advice of the chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and others interested in the shipping of the port before proceeding to recommend other reforms. They were desirous of giving the question every consideration before making recommendations, and the present report did not absolutely commit the Council to anything. Councillor Cleland, understanding that the adoption of the report did not bind the Council to any particular course, would support it, but not otherwise, as he objected to the Council taking the management of the wharf into its own hands. He felt sure that if this were done, the Corporation would suffer severe loss. He should much prefer to see the old plan adopted, and the wharf let. The Mayor said, what was sought to be done was to take over the management of the details of the wharf, the carrying out of which under the present system seemed to be a source of perpetual annoyance. In making these arrangements with lessees hitherto, the Council had endeavored to so arrange matters that every convenience should be offered to the public, but somehow or other the facilities required had not been given. It was said a coach and six could always be driven through an Act of Parliament, and so it was with rules and regulations, and the committee thought it desirable for the Council to take the matter into their own hands and management, so that they might find out exactly where the shoe pinched, and avoid the complaints at present made by almost every person who had any business to do with the wharf. It might be that loss would be incurred in the first instance, but he did not for a moment think there would be loss ; and as business was increasing every day, it was most necessary to find where the evil rested. Councillor Moss would also support the adoption of the report if it were not binding’on the Council. The Mayor said of course the report would be binding to a certain extent, inasmuch as it authorised the committee to proceed in certain things, and to call for applications for various offices. The report was then adopted unanimously. THE AUDITORS AND THE ACCOUNTS.

The Mayor, as chairman of the committee, to whom the auditors’ report was referred, brought up the following report : “ The committee have gone into the matter of accounts remitted to them, and have conferred with the auditors on the subject. “ The committee premise, to avoid any possibility of misconception, that there is no question of improper dealing with the funds involved in the discussion. The character of the city officials is not impugned by the auditors. The question resolves itself purely into one of book-keeping, on the merits of which there is room for a difference of opinion. “ The auditors, in the exercise of the powers conferred upon them by the Municipal Corporations’ Act, have only discharged their duty, and the suggestions made by them are entitled to consideration. “ Satisfied, however, of the substantial accuracy of the accounts, your committee recommend to the Council that these accounts shall be allowed and certified, in the usual manner, under the hand of the Mayor ; but the committee would suggest that several improvements be introduced in the Council’s system of book-keeping, and for this purpose they suggest the reappointment of the committee, with power to see these improvements carried out, and that they shall embrac# book-keeping by double.entry.” V

Councillor Gillon thought the committee should have reported to the Council precisely what changes they recommended ; certainly he was not prepared to leave it to a small committee to make whatever changes they liked. He did not know what reforms the committee contemplated, but he had a desire for larger reforms than he thought the committee had any idea of. It was no use doing things by halves, they would only get into worse confusion than they were in at present, and he thought the present a splendid opportunity for a thoroughgoing reform all through, and when the proper time came, he should give notice to move for a sweeping change.

The Mayor thought Councillor Gillon did not quite understand the report. It only professed to deal with the report of the auditors upon the accounts of last year, in which they intimated disapproval of the system of bookkeeping how in force. All the committee asked was to be appointed to see things put right, and a new system introduced. Of course, the matter of refoi’m might come afterwards, but he (the Mayor) thought the report should be first dealt with. Councillor Gillon said he objected to leave the'matter with the committee, and he then proceeded to mark certain words in the report which he wished left out, and to write in the margin other words. The Mayor said he did not approve of that being done. If Councillor Gillon wished an alteration in the report, he must move it as a separate motion. Councillor Gillon said he should do nothing of the sort ; he should do as he had always done, excise certain words and put in others.. The Mayor : Indeed you shall not. I will not take the motion that way. If you write on paper what you want left out, and what you want put in, I will take it ; but you shall not alter the report. Councillor Gillon then wrote and moved the following motion : —“ That the words, ‘ with power to see these improvements carried into effect at once,’ be omitted, and that the words, ‘to report on the improvements required,’ be inserted instead thereof.” Councillor Rainie seconded, and expressed a desire to see the accounts kept by double entry, or any system, so that they might be able to show at a moment’s notice the exact position of the Corporation. The name of Councillor Rainie having been added to the committee, the amendment of Councillor Gillon was agreed to.

ABSTRACT OP SALARIES AND WAGES. The usual fortnightly abstract of salaries and wages was passed for payment. SURVEY OP THE CITY. Councillor Gillon inquired when the survey of Wellington being made by the Provincial Government would be available. It had been faithfully promised for the Ist January, but nothing had yet been seen of it, though it had been earnestly looked for as data to guide the Councillors in the matter of sewerage. The City Surveyor said he had heard nothing within the past fortnight. He had then heard it would be completed by the Ist January. However, he would inquire. THE PRESS AND THE TOWN CLERK. The Mayor said he wished before the Council rose to make some remarks on a personal matter, and he thought it as well that all parties should understand once and for all on what footing matters stood in regard to affording information to the Press. After the rising of the Council after the last meeting the reporters applied to him for documents. He expressed the greatest willingness and they then left. It seemed the Town Clerk refused the papers, and then the reporters came to him again and asked him for a peremptory order to the Town Clerk to give up the documents. He declined to give such peremptory order for various reasons, chiefly because he had only just taken his seat at the Council Board, and it would have been exceedingly unbecoming in him to have assumed any airs or high bearing by issuing an order of this kind. Before any person took this upon himself, he must become a little acquainted with the circumstances of the case, and he did not care to assume too much the first day of office; but he might state, as a general rule, he was anxious that every information should be given, and, in saying this, he believed he spoke not only his own feelings but those of the Council. Of course there were times when it might be imprudent to publish a document, because pending negotiations might be interfered with,, but this was the only exception, at all other times he should be glad to give every information, and officers of the Council would understand that for the future every assistance was to be given to newspaper reporters. CORPORATION REFORMS. Councillor Gillon gave notice of his intention to move at the next meeting :—“ That in order to secure the efficient and economical administration of the affairs of the city, it is necessary that the departmental arrangements should be entirely reorganised, and that in order to leave this Council perfectly free in making fresh arrangements, it is desirable that thi-ee months’ notice of the termination of their existing engagements should forthwith be given to all three permanent officers of the Corporation.” HONORARIUM TO THE MAYOR. Councillor Pharazyn said he desired to ask the Mayor a question. He must be aware that his predecessor, Mr. Moorhouse, had performed the duties of Mayor without receiving any emoluments for his services. He (Mr. Pharazyn) wished to know whether the present Mayor, considering the present state of the finances of the Corporation, would desire a salary. He (Mr. Pharazyn) thought the Council scarcely justified in paying ,£2OO a year away, although he should be sorry if Mr. Hutchison were disappointed, having expected a salary. He should like to know Mr. Hutchison’s opinion on the matter. The Mayor said certainly he believed the Mayor should be paid ; but if the Council said there should be no salary, of course there

would be none. As for himself, he was quite in the hands of the Council; they might do as they pleased. - ~ , Councillor Pharazyn then gave notice to move, at the next meeting of the Council,— “That, considering the financial position of the Corporation, no salary should be voted for the Mayor during the current year.” The Council then rose.

AMATEUR ATHLETIC CLUB. The following handicaps were declared at the Pier Hotel on Thursday night : Maiden Plate, 220 Yards—A. Campbell, Remington, Nixon, Churton, Crawford, Mlinifie, C. Allen, Wren, A. Bishop, G. Campbell, Donald, Bock, Norman, McKain, Black, Foley, G. Avery, Hickson, and Boyd. 440 Yards Handicap.—Donovan, scratch; Judd, Gyds.: Parrington and W. Moran, Byds.; Boyd and Bidmead, 10yds.; Churton, C. Webb, and G. Park, 12yds.; Major and P. Webb, 14yds.; Hickson, Norman, and Harrison, 16yds.; Remington and Crawford, 20yds.; Nixon, 22yds. 220 Yards Handicap.—Donovan and G. Bishop, scratch ; Wren, Major, Parrington, and W. Moran, 3yds.; Hooper, Foley, and Bidmead, 4yds. ; Hickson, G. Park, C. Webb, Churton, and A. Campbell, syds. ; Bock,. Norman, Minifie, and Harrison, 6yds.; A. Bishop, Boyd, Donald, and Salmon, Byds. ; Asher, Nixon, and Remington, 10yds. Bicycle Race —1 Mile Handicap.—South, scratch; McLean, 120yds. ; Churton, 150yds.; Williams, 200yds. One Mile Handicap.—J. Moran, scratch ; Judd and Chuck, 10yds.; Parrington, 15yds.; Harrison, P. Webb, Boyd, and Hooper, 25yds.; Churton and Hickson, 30yds. ; Bennett and Remington, 35yds. 100 Yards Handicap.—Donovan and G. Bishop, scratch; C. Allen and Wren, 2yds.; Hooper, C. Webb, W. Moran, Major, and Hickson, 3yds.; Black, Boyd, A. Campbell, J. Park, and Parrington, 4yds.; A. Bishop, Donald, Norman, Bock, Salmon, Nixon, and Asher, syds. Hurdle Race, 120 Yards Handicap.— Donovan and Bishop, scratch; A. Campbell and Hickson, 4yds.; Parrington, C. Webb, W. Moran, and Black, 6yds.; Major, Norman, and J. Campbell, Byds.; C. Baker, and Nixon, 10yds, Ilandicappers. —Messrs. Pollock, Young, and Bishop. _