CHRISTCHURCH,

Thames Star, Volume X, Issue 3397, 11 November 1879, Page 2

CHRISTCHURCH,

Last night

A wooden house in Tuam street had a narrow escape from being burnt down on Saturday, through tho curtain and blinds being set fire to by a child playing with a caudle. The fire was seen by Sergt. Hughes, who was passing, and who quickly stamped it out with the aid of a blanket; damage £2. The furniture was not insured.

A few winding-up canters took place on the course this morning. Hornby had a bad night on Saturday, and has receded in the betting several points. In the betting on the Derby, the bookmakers are seemingly ready to lay against him.

The following are the Hermit's tips in the Star :—The Free Handicap.—York. In Derby—Betrayer, 1; Adamant, 2. J.C. Handicap.—Maritana, 1; Mota, 2; Pinfire close for place. Welcome Stakes. —Sir Madrid, 1; Hilarious, 2 ; Sir Garnet and Tim Whiffler for places. Racing 1 Scatters. The following are the final acceptances for the Welcome Stakes :—Hilarious, Sir Garnet, Eomeo, Tim Whiffier, Miss Flat, Lady Florence, Waimea and Sir Madrid. Free Handicap : Sinking Fund, Titania, Foul Play, Cork, Bobin Hood. C.J.C. Handicap : Laertes, Minna, Chancellor, Pinfire,' Longlands, Templeton, Maritana and Atalanta.

His Excellency Sir Hercules Robinson arrived to-day by special train from the port at noon. His Excellency was received at Lyttelton by His Worship the Mayor, and on the arrival of the special train at Cbristehurch His Excellency and party were received by the Hon. \vm. Robinson, Mr H. P. Lawrie, and a few friends, who accompanied them to Cotter's Hotel, where the Governor will remain during his residence in the city. His Excellency is accompanied by the Hon. Lady Robinson, dipt. St. John, Aid-de-camp, and Mrs St. John, Miss Robinson, and the Hon. A. Cadogan. Tho Mayor of Christchurch did not receive His Kxcelleney, as he had previously learned by telegram from Wellington that the Governor's visit was entirely of a private nature.