CHRISTMAS VACATION.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 5533, 20 December 1878, Page 2

CHRISTMAS VACATION.

ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL.

The annual examination of the pupils attending this school was completed yesterday afternoon, and the prizes were awarded. The Von. Archdeacon Stock and the Rev. James Paterson held tho post* of honor, and there was a good attendance of the parents and friends of the pupils. One of the very commodious class-rooms had been nicely decorated for the occasion, and on the walls were exhibited specimens of the work done. Other specimens were also displayed on the tables. These were all of a very high class, especially the book-keeping, outline drawing, maps, &o. Proceedings were opened by the Vek. Archdeacon, in a few congratulatory sentences. Ho said he did not intend to make a speech, for two reasons; first, because the weather was so warm that day; and secondly, because he had discovered that the Rev. Mr. Porritt's pupils had too retentive a memory. One of the pupils the other day naively remarked to bim (the Archdeacon), " Pa, how is it whenever you speak you say the same thing." (A laugh). Certainly Mr. Porritt educated his pupils to some purpose, and with tho horror of that recollection upon him, he could not be expected to say much. (A laugh.) The Rev. T. POBRITT (principal) said he was very glad to see so many ladies and gentlemen present, because their attendance indicated interest taken in the work of education generally and in tho proceedings of the English High school in particular. He was happy to say that the w>>rk of the past year had on the whole more than equalled that of preoeding years, and that the school was in a thoroughly satisfactory character. The conduct of the boys had been good generally, but of course the boys in attendance, like those at other schools, had their little failings. He regretted that the nasty dangerous practice of stone-throwing had become so prevalent throughout the town. Tho head master of one of the public schools had received permission to expel any boy found guilty of stonethrowing. With that he quite agreed, and he intended to adopt the same course himself—fepel any boy discovered throwing stones, for it was high time the practice was pat down with a high hand. Messrs. Stock and Paterson then distributed the prizes according to the following honor list :

First Degreo Certificate and First Degree Prize.— Fourth .lass (highest class)—E. Widdop. Third class —A. Wiron, G. Holdsworth. Secondclass—W. Pyke, A. McCredie.—Second Degree Certificate and Second Degreo t'rize.—Fourth class- C. Holdsworth, J. Ilolliday, and A. Buchanan, A. Meek, A. Urwin, and A. C. Cleland. Third class—B. Stock, W. Me-k, A. Cameron, and E. Porter. Second class—G. Doile, E. Daniel. R. Hamerton, and W. Haybittle. First class —E. Staples, O. Pcrritt, and T. Davies.—Second Degree Certificates.—G Tully, E. Ellaby, H. Smith, B. Staples, G. Stevens,. G. A. Downes, F. Henderson, W. Bead, and J. Holmes.

Special Prizes.—Recitation—First class-O. Torritt. Second class—B. Haraertou. Third class—W; Meek. Fourth class—A. Meek.—Spelling.—First class K. Staples, 1; G. Downes, 2. Second class— W. Pyko, 1; E. Daniel, 2. Fourth class—A. Urwin.—Grammar and Composition—Thi'd class—W. Meek. Fourth class—A. C. Clcknd.—Writing and Book-keeping.— First class—K. Staples, 1; G. Shannon, 2. Second class— W. Pyke, 1; G. Doile, 2. Third class—A. Wiren. Fourth class—Buchanan. —Arithmetic—First class -R. SUples, 1: O. Porritt, 2. Second class—W. Pyk« 1- W. Haybitile. 2. Third class—A. Wiren, 1 ; G. Hohlsworth, 2. Fourth class—A. Meek, 1; E. Widdop, 2.—Mapping and Drawing.—Fourth class— A. Buchanan. The singing of a verse of the National Anthem brought the proceedings to a close. The party theu adjourned to the yard, where a couple of balloons were sent up most successfully. CONVENT SELECT SCHOOL. There are few people iu any community, be their religious belief what it may, who will refuse to- admit the inestimable benefits that are derived from convent schools and the course of education that is imparted in such establishments. As educating mediums, convent schools are held in such high estimation all the world over that not only Catholics but parents of other, denominations are only too glad to avail themselves of the manifold advantages which they confer ; and the result is that in most convent schools a considerable proportion of the children receiving instruction are non-Catholic. The very fact of Protestants entrusting the education of their children to the Sisters of Mercy shows that they repose great confidence in those ladies, and that confidence, we are glad to say, is in no way betrayed ; because, so far as teaching is concerned, there is no favor or partiality shown, no preference manifested for Catholic pupils over their Protestant schoolmates, or a greater amount of attention paid to the former, to the disadvantage of the latter. In the matter of religion, too, there is no attempt made at proselytising, the rules of the Convent being strictly directed against interference in matters of theology and faith in the case of Protestant children entrusted to their care. In all these respects tho Convent select school of this city fulfils the conditions imposed upon it by the Lady Superioress who so. ably directs it, and supplies a great want so fully and satisfactorily as to entitle tho establishment to preeminence as an eduoational institution. Than the site on which the Convent and the schools attached to it stand there is perhaps none finer in the city. Hearing their beautiful proportions in close proximity to the Cathedral, ovar the harbor of Port Nicholson, from the sea it is the first object that attracts the attention of the visitor to Wellington. Erected on such high ground, with such a perfect system of drainage as ha 3 been carried out, the place must be exceedingly healthy for residential purposes. The Covent itself, in which the Sisters of Mercy and their boarders reside, is a fine building, and all the apartments it contains fulfil all tho requirements of health. The lighting and ventilation are as perfect as architectural science has been able to suggest, and there is such a scrupulous regard paid to cleanliuess that the floors of the establishment might almost at any time be converted into tables oft' which one might take his meal with the utmost comfort. Iu the Convent there is a place for everything, and everything is to be found in its place ; tlw discipline is perfect, and everything is reduced to such an admirable system that neatness aud tidiness are everywhere visible. In this respect also there is a very useful lesson inculcated to the young ladies who are brought up and educated within the walls of the establishment. With regard to the school, the building is a very spacious one, with lofty ceilings, aud plenty of light aud ventilation. It oontains also some beautiful furniture, quite beyond anything to be seen in other schools ; and the same remarks about cleanliness which applies to the Convent itself may bo used whea speaking of the Bchool. The Sisters of Mercy first opened their school in this city in 1862, and a large number of tho ladies of Wellington and other parts of New Zealand who have now homes of their own, are indebted for their accomplishments to the good sisters of this Convent, who discharge their duties as instructors with au earnestness and devotion which cannot be praised too highly. There are at the present time sixty-sis young ladies in oonstant attendance at the select school, including twenty-thrco boarders. Protestant children bear the proportion to the total Lumber of about three-sevenths. The cour.-e of secular instruction embraces French and German, music, fancy work, and all tho branohes of a thorough English education. There are no fewer than six Sisters engaged in the select school, an amount of teaching power which is even more than adequate to supply the requirements of those whom they teaoh so effectively. On the approach of tho Christmas vacation, the annual examinations wero held, previous to tho breaking-up of tho schools. The examinations commenced on Tuesday morning last, and were continued on Wednesday; they wero conducted by tho Sisters, and the Right Rov. Dr. Redwood, assisted occasionally. Entertainments were held on the evening of each day, to which the parents of tho children and their friends wero invited. Tho invitations

issued by the Sisters Vere so heartily responded to that on each everpug the schoolroom was crowded almost to suffocation. A temporary stage was erected in the centre of the room at that point where folding Joors divide the first aud second classes. Wing* were improvised, ai»d there was the customary drop cuitain of green baize. Tho proscenium was tastefully festooned, a*>d over the front of the stage in bold letters of g-een on a white network ground werethe words"A Merry Christtaasauda Happy New Year." On Tuesday the first items on the programme were a number ol scenes from Racine's " Athalie," sustained by-young ladies of Class 1., in which the parts were assigned as follows :—Joad, roi de Juda, fils c'Ochozias, Miss Grace ; Athalie, veuve de Jotan, aieule de Joas, Miss Goulter; Joad, granl-pretre, Miss Compton ; Josabet, femme de Joari, Miss Worthington ; Zacharie, fils de Jnad, Miss Maud Grace ; Abuer, officier des wis de Juda, Miss Reeves ; Azarias, Miss Coker ; Timael, Mias Scully. All the young ladies filled their parts remarkably well, the most conspicuous for excellence being Miss Grace and Miss Goulter. A pianoforte solo was played by Miss A. Cimiuo, entitled " The warblUg lute," and this was followed by '" Home, sweet home," executed with a great deal of expression by Miss Gimino. The second piece was entitled " Flower 3 for the Altar; or, Play and Earnest." The cast was distributed as follows :—Father Dominic, a priest, Miss Scully; the Mother, Miss Amy Compton; Helen, Miss Tabor ; Oswald and Agnes, brother and sister, Miss Maud Grace and Miss Bi'unetta Cimino ; the Miller, Miss McDonald ; Charle/ Baker, Miss Mulligan ; village children, Miss Kose Lichtscheindl, Miss Koch, and Miss Chapman ; the Guardian Angel, Miss Grace. In this piece Miss Maud Grace, Miss Brunetta Cimino, and Miss Scully made themselves conspicuous by their excellent handling of the parts entrusted to them, and the audience expressed their delight in loud applause. Mr. Bonnington's beautiful schottische, called " The Southern Alps," was performed on the piano in a highly creditable manner by Miss Mitchell. On Wednesday evening the holdiug capacity of the room was again put to its utmost test by the large number of ladies and gentlemen who flocked to the second entertainment. It commenced with an adaptation from Cardinal Wiseman's " Fabiola," entitled " The Youthful Martyrs of Rome," the cast being sustained as follows : —Tertullus, prefect of Home, Miss A. Cimino ; Fabius, a Roman nobleman, Mi»s J. Compton ; Lady Fabiola, his daughter, Miss Coker ;, Agnes, cousin of Fabiola, Miss Grace ; Fulvius, a Syrian sojourning in Rome, Miss Goulter ; Sabastian, officer of the Imperial Guard, Miss Cimino ; Pancratius, a youth, Miss Graham ; Lucina, mother of Pancratius, Miss Worthington ; Corvinus, son of Tertullus, Miss Reeves; Nicostratus, a magistrate, Miss Scully ; Zoe, his wife, Miss Worthington ; Tranquillianus, a pagan, Miss Ross; Marcia, his wife, Miss Brassey ; Marcus and Marcellianus, his song, Miss A. Saunders and Mi6s McDonald ; Catulus, headsman, Mi?s Sheridan ; Afra and Graia, slaves in Fabiola's household, Miss Brassey and Miss A. Compton; Syra, Miss Compton; Hermann, a sentinel, Miss A. Compton; Emeruutiana, foster sister of Agnes, Miss Brunetta Cimino. In this piece Miss Kale Coker, Miss Grace, Miss Compton, and Miss Scully took their parts admirably. The prologue, written by Canon Oakley, was delivered by Miss Scully in fine style, aud the whole performance was an unqualified success. The afterpiece was entitled, " Where was the Poet born," which was cast as follows :—Mr. 'Thomas Cranby, Miss Goulter ; Mrs. Cranby, Miss Worthington ; Mr. Maresuest (library enthusiast), Miss Cimino ; Miss Maresnest, Miss A. Cimino ; Mr. Alouzo (Lexicon author), Miss Jessie Compton ; Miss Penelope (Lexicon authoress), Miss Ross ; Master Earlybird (a clerk), Miss Compton ; Ist Artist, Miss Coker ; 2nd Artist, Miss Graham; Miss Podgers, Miss Reeves. In this piece Miss Goulter distinguished herself greatly as Thomas Cranky. Ihe entertainments on both evenings passed off with more success thau could have been expected. The youug ladies astonished their audience beyond all measure. From the youngest to the oldest girl, all were dead letter perfect in the parts entrusted to them ; they spoke out well, and their elocution was surprisingly good. ' In fact, the audience were quite taken by surprise, and an extra charm was rendered to the performances by the air of simplicity which surrounded them. The Sister who trained the young ladies to such a high pitch of perfection cannot be commended for the success of her efforts by too much praise or too many words of congratulation. The task was no small one, and its accomplishment reflects the highest credit alike on the good Sister aud her pupils. Reverting to the examinations, Miss Compton was successful in obtaining the prize, value £5, offered by his Lordship Bishop Redwood for liujjliab. composition and history. The candidates had to write an account of the reign of Edward 111. without reference to books, and three hours were allowed in which to perform the task. Miss Compton wrote about sixteen or seventeen pages, and the prize was awarded to her for the superiority of her composition in a literary and historical point of view. Several of the other competitors, although they did not succeed in obtaining the prize, have no reason to be ashamed of their productions, as they were very good indeed. The Lady Superioress was kind enough to show our representative a schedule representing the progress which had been made in the subjects of examination during the past year. The examinations just completed embrace the following subjects :

FIRST CLASS. Christian Doctrine—Full exposition of sacraments ill genera], baptism, confirmation. Holy Eucuarist, roal presence, the Mass, transubstautiation, holy communion, ponance, contrition, confession, satisfaction, indulgences. Old Testament History—From reign of Eyechias to Age V L. of the world. New Testament History—The Epistles, accounts of tho lives of the Apostles and Evaugelists. Grammar—Compound sontences, rules for punctuation. Arithmetic—lst division, fractions ; 2nd division, int. rest; 3rd division, compound practice. English History—Detailed account from Henry V. to Honry VIII. inclusively. Geography—Australia, counties of New Zealand, political Eugland. Ancient History—Outlines of chief evonts between years B.C. 1184 and 490. Astronomy—Facts conoormng the planets from Chart No. 1 (Johnstone's.) Botany—Organs of flowering plants. French—To Lesson XX., Ollendorff. Drama scenes from " Athalie," by Bacln->. Recitation—Drama, " The Youthful Martyrs of Itome," adapted from Cardinal Wiseman's "Fabiola." ucdiojval History—Outlines of European history in tho Middle Age*. Use of the Globes—First easy problems, definitions. Geometry— Fifty definitions. First problems, Geology—Answers to Chambers' questions. SECOND CLASS. Christian Doctrine - Same as first class. Old Testament—From "Joseph to tho Giving of the Law. New Testamont-Early part of Our Lord's public life.

Grammar—Parsing inflexions of nouns, verbs, and adjectives. Arithmetic—Simple practice English History—Outlines from John to Honry V. inclusively. Goog'aphy—Now Zealand ohief physical and political features, chief towns of England. The young ladies display a great proficiency in drawing, and fancy-work of all kinds, and in music also. They are likewise exceedingly well versed iu geography, and the Sisters' mode of teaching is by impression. In this manner any of their pupils can draw a map of any country from memory when oalled upon to do bo, and the task will be found to be performed with wonderful acouracy. In their course of instruction on this subject the Sisters are assisted by one of Johnston's winding atlases, whioh can bo wheeled into the middle of the schoolroom, and the maos of the various countries disclosed to view with whatever degree of rapidity may be thought desirable. The prizes for amiability fell, in the first class, to Miss Jessie Compton, and in the second class to Miss Scully. These awards were the result of a ballot taken in the respective classes. Yesterday was the day fixed for the distribution of tho prizes, and at 10 o'clock the Sisters of Mercy and their pupils assembled in the schoolroom. Several parents and friends were also in attendance, and the Right Bev. Dr. Redwood, the Rev. Father McGuiuuess, and the Rev. leather Kerrigan were present. The proceedings were opened with a selection of sacred music on the harmonium by one of the'" Sisters, and this was followed by the " Gloria quid rctribuam." A 6010 on two pianos (" Roman March") was next played in a very pleasing manner by Misa Mitchell and Miss Kate Ooker, and another piauoforte solo (" Summer") was played by Miss Graham and Miss Scully in good style. Tho Misses McDonald and Chapman then played the duet " We aro waiting by the river" in a way which evoked applause; but the gem of the programme was tho pianoforte solo on two pianos by the Misses Cimino and Compton, from " Lucrezia Borgia." This was played with great precieion, and was very much appreciated by all who heard it. While Miss Reevesplayed a solo ("Marthe") the young Indies exhibited the needle-work, fancy-work, &c, which they had done in the interval since tho previous examination, and it was generally admired. This over, the distribution of prhses was announced to take place. Previous to this being done, however, tn o young ladies—-

one bearing a present for the Bishop and the other carrying an address—approached the table behind which his Lordship and Fathers McGuinnesg and Kerrigan were seated. In a clear voice, without the slightest faltering, Miss Grace read out the following address, which was beautifully written and Blightly illuminated by Miss Compton : To tho Right Rev. Dr. Redwood, S.M., Bishop of Wellington. My Lord.—We, the children of St. Mary's ConveDt school, gl-idly tike this opportunity of thanking your Lordship for the kind interest you have taken in our advancement. We cannot too highly appreciate your Lordship's earnest desire for our rpiritual an'l temporal welfare in providing us with so many devoted teachers of tho renowned Order of our Lady of Mercy. We know th 6 only adequate return we can make ■ for all you have done for us is to become good and true Catholics. May it please your Lnrdship to accept, as a little Christmas memento, thisrDchet. It is entirely our own handiwork; in fact, our first attempt at this style of lace. In conclusion, we fervently pray Almighty God may spare you over us for many happy years to come, and with one accord we all wisli your Lordship every graco and blessing of tl'is holy season.—We are, &c., The Pitils of St. Mauy's Convent Select School. Wellington, December 19,1578. Miss Grace theu handed the address to his Lordship, and her companion presented tho rochet. This is of point lace, done entirely by the children. It is a splendid piece of work, and the beauty o£ the lace is thrown out by an underground of colored silk. The young ladies by whom the work was executed ara as follows: —The Misses Worthington, Verdon, Oker, Bras3ey, Ciraino, Goulter, Ross, Connell, Mitchell, and Percy. His LoRDSHir said : I must express my sincere thanks to you for this very kind and totally unexpected present. You take ma entirely by surprise, so that I don't know what to answer. However, lam extremely grateful to you for the present you have made me, and I appreciate it highly on account of the holy sentiment which dictated it. It displays a holy sentiment on the part of those good Sisters who have trained you up so well, and shown such great ability in teaching you so many various branches of learning ; so that while I accept this present most thankfully for myself, I must also refer in a special manner to the consideration which prompted you in this circumstance, and especially I take it as a token of gratitude to those devoted Sisters to whom you. are all so much indebted. I will not detain you any longer now, my dear children ; but I cannot conclude without complimenting you on the, talent you have displayed in working this present so beautifully. (Applause.) The prizes were then distributed as fol- ! lows : ' Ist Class.—Christian doctrine, «t. Miss Cimino ; » 2nd, Miss A. Cimino, Composition, Ist, (£5, the gift ; of the Most Rev. Dr. Redwood\ Miss M. Compton; ■ 2nd, Miss A. Goulter. French, Miss. A. Goulter: 1 History, Mis 3M. Compton; Qrammw, Miss M. ' Reeves ; Geography. Miss A. Graham; Special sub- *> jects. Miss J. Compton; Arithmetic, Ist, Miss L-. i Verdon ; 2nd, Miss A. Cimino ; Mental Arithmetic, Miss M. Sheridan ; Recitation, Miss Coket; Writing, \ Miss M. Compton ; Drawing, Miss M. Compton; > Pianoforte, Miss M. Compton ; Singing, Miss Worl thington ; Fancy work. Miss Coker; Regular atiend--5 ance. Miss A. t 'iraino.

2nd Class. Christian Doctrine, Miss Grace ; Grammar, MissGraoe; Recitation, Miss Grace;.History, Miss Maud Grace ; Geography, Miss A, -Saunders ; Arithmetic, Mis* Scully; Composition, Miss Tailor; Plain work. Miss Ellen Brassey; Paper flower making, Miss J. Mitchell; Regular attendance. Miss A. Compton. 3kd Class. Christian dnctcine. Miss Brunetia Cimino; History, Miss Kate Mulligan; Geography, Miss Kate Mulligan ; W'iting, Miss Ada Chapman; Recitation, Miss Bmnetta Cimino Plain work, Mi:s Kate Percy; Application, Miss Kate Percy ; Grammar, Miss Chapman.

Miss Jessie Gompton and Miss Scully, who had been awarded the prizes for amiability by their schoolmates, were crowned with wreaths of whiie flowers by the Bishop, amid applause. Miss Mitchell then played a Highland march on the piano in excellent style ; and this was followed by a farewell chorus, in which all the singers joined. His Lordship then spoke as follows :— My dear children, I have now to address to you a few words of congratulation. It has been to me a very agreeable task this morning to have to distribute these premiums—not that these premiums have any -comparatively \gre?t intrinsic worth, but they have a great worth, inasmuch as they are a proof of your diligence, of your industry, and of your success. I remem-' bor myself the days when I was young as you are —I remember also with what joy, with what feelings of delight I used to take part in the distribution of prizes, and I have no doubt that your feelings to-day are Bimilar to those

which used also in former days to animate me; and I feel therefore sincerely thankful for the opportunity that ha 3 been given me to-day to present these prizes. I congratulate the children of the Convent select school most heartily on their success ; especially do I congratulate the child that has obtained the prize for good attendance at school, because that is a very important one, and that child has set a great example to the others. It is impossible, my dear children, that you should advance in your studies if you. do not attend school regularly, and therefore I look upon that prize as a very important one indeed, and I hope that many of you will next year merit such a prize. I also congratulate in a special manner the recipient of the prize for English com. position and history. It was a test, not. only of history, but also of the knowledge of English and English composition, and these two things together make that prize valuable as a mark of success. I congratulate the person who has obtained that prize, and I also congratulate those who came so near to the prize, and who promise a great result on a future occasion, I exhort them, therefore, next year to have the same diligence in their studies, and even to increase it; and no doubt next year there will be a still more consoling and satisfactory result in that test thaa this year. And now, my dear children, allow ma to tell yoc in the presence of the public—and I wuh my voice would go abroad—that you cannot prize too much the establishment in which you live, because you have teachers who are highly accomplished in all branches of human learning ; and the examinations which I assisted at this year—in which you were thoroughly tested hour after hour, I may say day after day—haTe been a convincing proof of the very great efficiency of the teachers who are in this establishment; and therefore I tell you that you canuot sufficiently prize the very great boon now in your hands by the means of these most efficient and devoted teachers. (Hear, bear, and applause.) And, . I congratulate, at the same time, these teachers upon their ability, and still more upon their devotion to the task of education here. They are doing a very great work in our midst—(hear, hear) —educating you not only for the world, to make you competent to hold your place in a worthy and distinguished manner in the world, but also teaching you at the same time a still higher course of knowledge, which is the knowledge and practice of religion and virtue, —teaching you that not bo much by precept as by their excellent counsels and example. On this I have to tender my most sincere congratulations to you, and to the good Sisters also I desire to address words of congratulation and praise for their very great efficiency in this holy work. And now I have a few words to say to those ladies and gentlemen who have honored us with their presence to-day. I only regret that more are not present on this occasion, but if they knew how their children have progressed this year,. and were able to see them at their examina-. tions, I feel convinced they would have taken a still greater interest in the distribution of these premiums. So that while! I congratulate those present, I feel sorry that many mora are not in attendance here, because they would, be able to take a special share aud interest in your success, my dear children; but I feel convinced that they will honor us with their presence in great numbers on a future occasion. Allow me also in passing to congratulate you on your performances ; they were very creditable indeed ; considering the large nature of the task, the result of your performances was really wonderful, and elicited the applause, the surprise, and the admiration of those present. I desire, therefore, to express my Biucere congratulations and praise to those who performed so ably. And now, my dear children, allow me, though I do not wish to keep you long, to address a few words to yourselves, you are now going to be free; you are going' to your home*; you are going to be happy ; you are going to take a neces»ary distraction after your very deep and 'ardent studies, arid on that also I congratulate you;— but at the same time allow me to give yog, some words of wholesome advice. I sincerely hope that when you are at home in the bosom of your families, you will do honor to the establishment whioh has trained you with so much devotion during the year, and that in your conduct at home you will display the fruits of the instruction you have received ; I hope you will show all this by being obedient, grateful, and lovine to your parents, and that no complaints will be addressed to your teachers after your return. Aud with regard to those going to leave this establishment at the present moment, who have finished their studies, allow me to address to you, iny dear children, soma few words of advice. Kemeni. ber in all your lifetime the examples of virtue you received here ; and if you do this you will be a credit to yourselves, a credit tothoSe .who know you, and a credit to Booiety in general.

I will not detain you any longer, but will con. elude by tendering my congratulations to those who have been successful, and my thanks to those ladies and gentlemen who have honored us by their presence to-day. To those who have not taken prizes, I wish them better success in the future. To all of you I sincerely wish happy holidays and a merry and holy Christmas.

A final chorus was then sung- by the young ladies, and the school broke up for the holidays. It will be re-opened on the 20th of next month. Our representative desires to express his acknowledgments for the kindness and courtesy he received at the hands of the Sisters of.the Convent, who supplied him with any information he required without the slightest reservation.

THE MARI-ST BROTHERS' SCHOOLS. The Mariat Brothers, three in number, arrived here about two years and a half ago. Thoy too); charge first of the Thorndon Catholic school, but the Government would not accept of their services as teachers under the School Board although this privilege is granted them in Great Britain, in such towns as London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, &c, and in colonies sach as Cape Colony, in Capetown. As thoy had come specially to teach all the Catholic children of Wellington, their number was too small to open two schools, so that it was incumbent on the Catholics of this city to make an effort to build a new school and apartments for the Brothers in some central part of the city. It was then that a general meeting of the Catholics of "Wellington was called by his Lordship in St. Mary's Cathedral for that purpose. How they responded to his appeal is shown by. the magnificent schools now built in Boulcott-street, which are certainly a credit to the Catholic?, beside an adornment to this city. When Mr. Hurley, late teacher of St. Joseph's school, left Te Aro tho now Bcbools were not yet finished, and one Brother had to take charge of this school until their completion. It was remarked at Erst in both schools, that when the Brothers took charge of them nearly all the Protestant boys left, either throngh prejudice or because the fees were found too high. But this was not to last leng, and a good many are now frequenting their schools, who are not only giving satisfaction to their masters but who are a credit to them. The Brothers opened Thorndon school with only 40 boys, and the Te Aro school with 60 ; now their schools number 200 boys, with an average attendance of 170. This number would certainly be still greater had not the Sisters of Mercy opened an infant school at both ends of the town, for the convenience of the younger children. There are now four Brothers, and their numbei- is likely to be increased very soon. Though the Brothers are not supposed to keep boarders, considering their insufficient accommodation, they have, however, consented .to take some, in order to satisfy some parties, especially from the country. On Tuesday last, his Lordship, along with the Rev. Fathers Yardin, McGuinness, and Kerrigan, had the boys of the most advanced class (the fifth) examined on the four following snbjeota :— History, English grammar and composition, Euclid, and algebra, in order to award a £5 prize which his Lordship had liberally promised to the most successful competitor. Hia Lordship and their reverences were highly pleased at the proficiency of the pupils in these several branches, and expressed their satisfaction.

The breaking up of these schools for the Christmas vacation took place ye3terda]r. An entertainment was given in the schools, and soma of the prizes distributed to the prizetakers. His Lordship Bishop Kedwood attended the entertainment, and was accompanied by the Eev. Fathers MeGuinness, Yardin, and Kerrigan. Mdlle. Charbonnet kindly volunteered her services as pianiste, and contributed in a great measure to the success of the evening's entertainment. When the curtain roae three pupils of the school, named K. Cook, H. Eeirl, and J. Sheridan, advanced to the front of the stage. Master Cook read out the following address: — To His Lozdahlp the Right Rev. Iranois Radwood, Bishop of Wellington.

Mr Lobd,—The time has at last come when the children of the Catholic parishes of Wellington have a fitting opportunity to testify to your Lordship their deepest gratitude for all you nave done tor them.

It Is bat two years and a half since the Brothers arrived amongst us, and what has been done for our welfare during so short a period unquestionably proves what Catholics are able to do when united in so sacred a cause as that of Christian education.

Bat. my lord, history teaches us that an army's triumphs are ever attributed to their leaders: so we also, my lord, must ascribe tho success that has crowned the Catholic cause in this city to your Lordship's able leadership. Xn the meantime, while thanking your Lordship, we must express our gratitude to thj zealous clorgy who have so ably seconded you; A' also to the Catholic ladies and gentlemen who have contributed so liberally to the construction of this solenoid school, which is not only a credit to those who have erected it, but also'an adornment to this city. Ifow that, thanks to your Lordship, we have religious teachers, teachers whose very vocation is a glorious protest against secular education, it simply remains to us to prove faithful to their pious instruction, and by bo doing we shall fulfil your most cherished expectations, and render ourselves more worthy to be called

Your Lordship's Most obedlentand faithful children,

The Pofixs or the MAaisT Brothers' School.

Wellington, December 19,1573. The address was beautifully engrossed by Brother Sigismond, and artistically illuminated. On the top there was a representation of the Cross on Calvary and some Scriptural emblems and mottos, the whole affair reflecting the highest credit on Brother Sigismond. After reading the address, the lads advanced to the body of the hall and formally handed it to th» Bishop, aud each of them presented a bonqnet to his Lordship. The entertainment was then proceeded with, Jldlle. Charbonnet opening it with a Bparkling overture, which was vociferously applauded. "Daniel in the Lions' Den," a sacred drama in five acts, was the first piece presented, with the followiug dramatis person* :—» ■

Daring (King ol Modes) .. C. Bonningion Daniel 1 ft. Dixon Fharnabazus !• (Hia Ministers) ■{ W. Coffey Mithrane J (W. Held (™.nd. of Daniel) Nanus ' (Conusant to Phamabaras) W. Corlisa Hydaspus (Captain of the Guards) C. Davis Eleazax -v (G. Goodman Uehemlai F Youths protected and edu-J J. Allan Ozetl : C cated by Daniel IA. Held Adonias ) VJ. Sheridan The boys were all very perfect, there being only a slight hitch in the fourth act. W. Coffey, as Pharnabazus, took the audience quite by surprise, and he received a call before the curtain at the end of the fourth act. As Daniel, B. Dixon also acquitted himself admirably. Between the acts the following vocal selections were given : —" O, sweet and sunny land," by VV. Corliss and S. Mahoney; "The spring • timo is come," by K. Dixon; " O'er the liquid waters," by the pupils; and " See the Conquering Hero comes," by R. Dixon, W. Corlisa, and S. Mahoney. The song and chorus, "Rouse, brothers, rouse,' by the pupils, wa3 also well given. Mdlle Charbonnet played all the accompaniments in her usual fine style, and her performances were duly appreciated. The after-pieee was the farce entitled " Sent to the Tower," in which J. Eddie appeared •as Launcelot Banks, W. CorlißS as Perkyn Puddifoot, and R. Dixon as the gaoler. .On the termination of a very <njoyable entertainment, Brother Edwin read over the list of prizetakers, and intimated that owing to the lateness of the hour only a few of the prizes" Would then be distributed, and the remainder would be presented next day. The following in the list:— ' Fifth Class.—His Lordship's premium of £5 for proficiency In the following four subjects:—History, English composition and grammar, geometry, and algebra: Robert Cook. Other prize-takers: Itobert Dixon, Harry Lee, Charles Bonntngton, Christopher Davis, William Held, William Corliss, StanisUus Mahoney, William Coffey, Henry Elandford, Thomas Dw»n.

■ Fourth Class.—Edward Gormley, Jolra O'Noll, Frank Shaw, Frank Lesalngton. Latin Class.—Harry Leo, Charles Bonnlngton, Robert Cook.

French Class.—Harry Lee, Charles Bonnington, Robert Cook, Thomas Dwan. Third Class, Ist division.—William Frascr. Allied Stager, Francb Oakes, John Allan, Alfred McKain, James Murray, William North, Haward Kohl, Harry C'rombU), Robert Hunter, Oliver McManaway, George Gaidner, Francis Wttton, Michael Hodglns. Charles Morgan, Richard Hodglns, John Sheridan, Daniel Eeardon. George Cains, Edwari Fltzgtbbon, Charles Jsherwopd, Francis Murphy, George Mahoney, William MeSTamara. 1 2nd di»l»lon: Michael Bonrko, Jweph sunders,James MoDermott. George Goodman, Maxwell Carpenter, Frank Gormlcy, EOOert preen, Louis Brogan, Leonard Parrut Second Class, Ist dlvhdon„p e roy Alfred, Arthur Creagh, M»rk'McCarthy, Nell McCarthy, Charlos Dcasy, Archibald Keith, John Gamble, William Lesringten, Joseph Gagan, Lawrence Frost, Benjamin Finucane, Arundel Carpenter, Francis "Bonnlngton William Hunter, Matthew Eains. 2nd dMsiori' Reginald Harding, Thomas Nldd, Thomas Modjdns' . Samuel Sandbrook, George Filmer, William Hoffman John.Fltzgibbon, George Hanaln, Robert Allan, Henry'Collins, Matthew Cook, Joseph McMaaaway, Wililain Ready, Henry Moore, Alfred Moore, Bonis Eeardon, Lawrence I'arrant, John Donovan, John Sullivan. First Class, Ist division.-M. Tier, Thomas Redmond, Walter Reld, Thomas Monogay, Ernest Saiger, Arthur Curry, Herbert Dooloy, Maurice Murray, William Marshal, R. Carney, Edwin Harrison, A. Smith, John McGngor, Maurice Mulcahy. 2nd dlvWon: Richmond Harding, Bernard Tior, Herbert Wyatt, Frederick Meyery Augustine Morgan, Walter Wyatt, Simon Fraser, Michaol McCarthy, Patrick Clarke. •■■ First Book.—A. Keith, John O'Driscoll, 0. O'Drlscoll,. T. Marshall, William Gamble, James i<ong, Jimm McUngbliß, Cecil o»rp«at«r,

Tho Riyht Rev. Dr. Redwood then spoke as follows:—OwiDg to the lateness of the hour, ladies and gentlemen, I shall not address you at very Teat length. I merely wish to express first of "all my thankfulness to the pupils of this school for presenting me with the address they did at the opening of this entertainment. I thank them very sincerely for what they say in that address ; aud now it is a very pleasant task to congratulate the.n on the success that they have achieved this year. I was able to judge of it by examination of some of the must advanced pipils to whom the prizes mentioned at tho beginning of that list were awarded ; they wero examined ou each particular with most searching severity, and the prizes were awarded to them accord ia<s to their merit. It is always, ladies and gentlemen, a very plea-ant task to reward merit; therefore it is with very great pleasure I award those prizes, and also the others. And at the same time, ladies aud gentlemen, it must be for you a circumstance capable of exciting gratitude in you towards those devoted Brothers when you have beheld the success which attends their efforts. You have, ladies and gentlemen, in your midst now teachers who have been thoroughly well taught to a very arduous business, and who are thoroughly efficient to make your children advance as rapidly as is possible, if your children attend the schools regularly; and allow mo to say to you now that one of the most important things—one of the essential conditions for still greater success to these Catholic schools—is the constant attendance of the children at school. I hope, therefore, that next year parents will be most particular on this point, and that they will not, without a very serious motive, allow their children to stayaway for several days in succession,because it is impossible to make the same progress they would otherwise have made if they had attended regularly. But Ido not wish now to make any reproach—l am rather giving you a warning. I have heard from these devoted teachers that their efforts have to a certaiu degree been marred by the . nonattendance of some of the pupils, and this, I am sorry to say, is traceable in a very great measure to the parents. I hope parents will not be offended by this observation, because I am deeply interested in the success of these schools and in the promotion of learning amongst the Catholics of Wellington. The very fact of your attendance at this entertainment which has been given to-night, and which has interested us so much, is a pre»f of the deep interest that all take in the great cause of Catholic education ; arid as was said to me in the address, the very fact of these teachers being in our midst, valuable as they would be in any case, is a constant protest of all the Catholics of Wellington, and I might say of all New Zealand, against a system of education that would tend to put God out of our schools; and when you have such schools as the present, managed with such efficiency (and you yourselves have been the witnesses of their decided success) then I say that we Catholics ought to be inspired with a desire and with a resolution to make greater efforts still in this great cause of Catholic education. Parents therefore do your part; send your children here ; send them all; send them regularly; and if you do that, I guarantee you will be satisfied with their puccess. And now I hope it will not be thought out of place in me this evening to congratulate the Marist Brothers upon the success that has attended their efforts so far. It was a very great disappointment to me last year when I was unable to attend at their distribution of prizes. I was then far away in a remote part of the diocese, engaged in the most important business—engaged in the midst of missions ; but this year I have much pleasure at being in your midst, and at being present at the most interesting entertainment which has been given to us this evening, and with regard to which I congratulate all those who took part in it; I make no distinction, but congratulate them all according to their success and merits. It is a pleasure to me to be here this evening, and I hope the proceedings of tonight will be for you all an additional incentive to make still greater efforts in the great cause of Catholic education. All depends on the goodwill of Catholics ; if they are determined to send their children regularly to school every day; if thoy will look to that, I am convinced there will be no schools which will surpass those of the Marist Brothers in efficiency in all matters of learning. That is my hope, ladies and gentlemen, and the realisation of that hope depends on your joining us in these -great efforts. These Brothers have come into our midst; they have made a great sacrifice ; they have been trained for years to the education of youth ; they have devoted themselves entirely to that mission ; they have separated themselves from all family ties, from all hopes of posterity; they have consecrated themselves in a divine manner to the education of youth, .. Where, then, can you have such a guarantee for the education of your children ; for the attention, the care, that will be taken of your children in every point of view ? Where greater guarantees of undoubted success ? Therefore lam convinced that next year you will prove your esteem and your veneration for these devoted teachers by sending your children one and all to their schools ; all the boy 3 who are able to come must come. Be not astonished—l repeat this because I wish it to enter deeply into your minds—that if we have a constant attendance of children, we shall have most consoling success—a success of which we may be sincerely proud. It i 3 with this hope that I distribute the premiums to-night. It i 3 always a pie ■- eant duty to reward merit, and particularly ao when the very fact of rewarding that merit is owing to our own efforts. It is to your efforts, ladies and gentlemen, we owe all this. You have raised this structure at your own expense; you have made great sacrifices already; continue the same good will, and you will always have increased success. Before I proceed to distribute the prizes, I must again thank the pupils for the very kind address they have presented to me, and I have only one thing to say : I wish them very happy holidays, and I hope that during the vacation they will, by their course of conduct, Bhow themselves worthy of the schools; that they will be a delight and consolation to their parents; that they will remember the instructions they have received here, and do honor to the institution that has done so much for them. The hour ia too late to distribute all the prizes ; some of them will be given tonight, but the remainder of the pnpils will come again to-morrow and obtain the prizes that have been awarded to them. (Loud applause.) His Lordship then proceeded to distribute some of the prizes, after which the proceedings terminated.

KAIVVARKA SCHOOL. At 3 p.m. yesterday afternoon the annual distribution of prizes took place at the Kaiwarra school. Mr. C. Thompson, chairman of the local school committee, occupiod the chair, and Mr. A. de B. Brandon, M.H.R., attended to present the prizes. The Chairman opened the proceedings in a few appropriate sentences, thanking Mr. Brandon for hi 3 attendance, and alluding to the successful management of the school in the bands of Mr. Evins and Miss C Story. Mr. Brandos, before distributing the prizes, commented upon the healthy and happy appearance of the scholars, and said he never remembered to have seen a more rosy-cheeked lot of boys and girls collected together. It astonished him to find such a numerous gathering of children at a small village like Kaiwarra, and he was glad to find that the school was so well patronised, as the attendance was the bsst possible proof that tho instruction given by the master and mistresi gave satisfaction to the parents of the children who attended the school. After addressing a few words of advice to the children. Mr. Brandon proceeded to distribute tho prizes as follows :

Frbo List—First Class: Robert Harris, Ist; Robert Flaws, 2nd; Edward Smith, 3rd. Second Class: Jcsslo Overend, Ist; Jessie Camoron, 2nd; Rosamund Smyth, 3rd, Third Class: William Ovorond, Ist; James Overend, 2nd; James McCallum, 3rd Fourth Class: Nolllo Oardner, Ist; Frank Donald, 2nd ; Lavioia 1 icker, 3rd. Fifth Class: Arthur Bailey, Ist; Isabella Camoron, 2nd; Robort Gardner, 3rd. Slsth Claas: John Flaws, Ist; Harry Tucker, 2nd ; Isabella Do 0a Eoche, 3rd. Standard I'ri2o3. Those that obtained tho highest marks: Standard IV., Robert Flaws: Standard 111., Rosamond Smyth; Standard 11., Edwin Stevens ;'Standard 1., Mary Gillis. Infant Class: Small book each. The remaining books to bo given to all thoso who attend who hayo not received prizes. After this was completed, the Chairman of the Committee handed over two handsome volumes, presented by that body to the master aid to the mistress as a token of their recognition of the highly successful efforts made by bo* teaohers. Mr. Evans expressed his surprba and gratification at the handsome present maw to him ; it was totally unexpected by him, seoing that he had been so short a time in the position; and Miss Story's present was also graoetjUy alluded to and gratefully acknowledged. , . Atten-.ion was called to tho fact that the accommodation was altogether inadequate for the numb* of scholars attached to the school. Between snty and seventy children were present, but eigrty.five was the full quota, and there ia notipaoe for more than twenty

children without crowding. Plans of a new building have been prepared, but a diffii-ulty has arisen between the Education Board and the school committee respecting the survey of the plot of ground belonging to tho school. In the meantime the inconvenience suffered by all connected with the school is very t'reat. Hearty cheers were given by the scholars for their visitors, tho master, and the chairman, and the proceedings terminated by the children singing the National Anthem with great energy. Mr. Thompson, the chairman of the school committee, recjivecl a vote of thanks for his services in that capacity. We may also mention that the first prize, a very handsome volume, was a present by him to the head boy of the w.hnl.