Weekly Mercury and Hawke’s Bay Advertiser 1877 – Volume II Number 063 – 27 January

WEEKLY MERCURY
AND
Hawke’s Bay Advertiser,

A Journal of Commerce, Agriculture, Sports, Politics, and Literature.

Vol. II. – No. 63.   NAPIER, SATURDAY, JANUARY 27, 1877.   PRICE SIXPENCE

HAWKE’S BAY AGRICULTURAL AND PASTORAL SOCIETY.
ROUTLEDGE, KENNEDY, & Co. will sell by auction at the Annual Ram Fair, to be held at the Society’s Grounds, Hastings, on THURSDAY FEBRUARY 1st, 1877.
By order of Colonel Whitmore, The Grange.
20 Stud Rams, 4-tooth
20 Stud Rams, 2-tooth
20 Stud Rams, Lambs
The above are carefully selected from the Stud Rams at the Grange, and bred by imported Rams from the flock of Messrs Marshall and Byron, Lincolnshire.
By order of Messrs. F. and W. Nelson –
60 2-tooth Lincoln Rams, by imported Rams
10 4-tooth Lincoln Rams by imported Rams
The well-known quality of the Messrs Nelson’s flock requires no comment.
By order of Thomas Tanner, Esq., Riverslea –
120 pure Lincoln two-tooth Rams, bred from his celebrated flock.
One Pen pure Lincoln Rams, aged, bred by T.P. Russell, Esq., and formerly used in Mr. Tanner’s flock.
One Pen pure Lincoln Rams, selected from Mr. Tanner’s flock.
By order of James Collins, Esq., Patangata –
80 2-tooth Lincoln Rams, by Kirkham Rams, imported by M. Smith, Esq., out of carefully selected ewes by Kirkham Rams imported by M. Hill, Esq.
By order of J.N. Williams, Esq., Frimley –
Particulars in a few days.
By Order of John Bennett, Esq. –
40 2-tooth Lincoln rams, by imported Ram
1 Imported Ram, Dudding
1 Imported Ewe, Dudding
The Ram was shown at the Lincolnshire Agricultural Show at Grantham as a shearling, and was highly commended.
By order of Hugh Duff, Esq. –
40 2-tooth Rams, by one of the New Zealand Company’s Prize Rams
By order of A. Shrimpton, Esq., –
80 Lincoln Rams, bred by the Australian and N.Z. Land Company.
By order of Messrs J. and W. Parsons,
40 2-tooth Lincoln Rams.

PRELIMINARY NOTICE.
SHAMROCK SALE YARDS.
THURSDAY FEBRUARY 8^th, 1877.
ROUTLEDGE, KENNEDY & CO.
Have received instructions from J. Heslop, Esq., to sell by public auction on the above date,
80 HEAD CATTLE, consisting of Fat Steers, Heifers, Cows and Calves.
Particulars before date of Sale.
Napier, January 16.

TO ARRIVE

Per “Glenlora” from London,
51 EWES AND 13 RAMS
The Ewes are from the flock of the late Mr. Kemp, and are of the pure Biscathorpe blood.
The Rams are a very superior lot, and comprise Duddings, Kirkhams, and Marshalls, and are really very fine sheep.
The above have been carefully selected in England by Melville B. Smith, Esq., which ought to be a sufficient guarantee for the good quality.
Applications for purchase of the above will be received by the undersigned.
ROUTLEDGE, KENNEDY & CO,
Auctioneers,
Napier and Spit.
December 7, 1876.

PRELIMINARY NOTICE.
HAWKES BAY AGRICULTURAL AND PASTORAL SOCIETY.
ANNUAL RAM FAIR.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1877.
MR. M.R. MILLER
Has instructions to sell by auction, at the Ram Fair to be held at Hastings on Thursday February 1, the undermentioned Stock –
LONGWOOLS
100 Pure Lincoln Rams, Two-tooth, bred by H. Sladen, Esq., by imported Rams.
50 Pure Lincoln Ewes, Two Tooth, bred by H. Sladen, Esq.
2 Imported by Melville Smith, Esq., pure Lincoln 8-tooth, bred by J.W. Dudding.
60 Pure Lincoln Rams, Four Tooth, bred by Thomas Tanner, Esq. These Rams are the pick from 100 selected by Mr McHardy
40 Pure Lincoln Rams, Two-tooth, bred by Messrs Coleman and McHardy; got by rams imported direct from England by Mr. Coleman from selected Ewes.
50 Pure Lincoln Two-tooth Rams
50 Pure Lincoln Four-tooth Rams
50 Pure Lincoln Two-tooth Ewes
(Bred by Joseph May, Esq., Auckland)
50 Pure Lincoln Two-tooth Rams (bred by Major Jackson and Thomas Russell, Auckland)
68 Pure Lincoln Two and Four-tooth Rams (bred by P.C. Thekeld, Esq., Canterbury.)
30 Pure Lincoln Two-tooth (bred by Messrs Sutton, Southland.)
10 Pure Lincoln Six and Eight-tooth (bred by Messrs F. and W. Nelson.)
2 Pure Lincoln Six-tooth (bred by Mr. John Turner, Lincolnshire)
And several other lots, detailed particulars not to hand.

MERINO
5 Pure Merino Rams, as sample Pen from the Maraekakaho stud flock by J.L. Currie’s Victorian Rams.
6 Pure Merino Rams (Instructed by Messrs Kinross & Co.) imported from England from the well-known “George IV” stock.
5 Pure Merino Two-tooth Rams, as Sample bred by Hon. R. Stokes, Milbourne.
3 Rams, bred by Philip Smith, Esq., Ross, two of their dams, prize-takers at Richmond, 1875; by brother of Sir Thomas (mother’s side); bred by James Gibson, Esq.
4 Rams by Philip Smith, out of picked ewes, bred by R.J. Kermode, Esq.
3 Rams, out of ewes bred by G. Pulley, Esq., dams by Kemode’s rams, out of Austrian ewes, imported by R.T. Allwright, Esq.
The whole of the above are 18 months old.
Note – Breeders intending to consign their stock to be sold by the undersigned, at the Fair, will kindly forward particulars early for catalogue.
M.R. MILLER,
Stock and Station Agent, Auctioneer.

SMALL LEASEHOLD RUNS.
FOR SALE,
5000 ACRES excellent Pastoral Land, 18 miles from Napier on the Sea Board. The Country is well-grassed and watered, capable of carrying now 5000 sheep; good yards and paddocks, &c. Low Rental. 2000 Sheep will be delivered with the run.
Price Moderate-Terms Easy.
For further particulars apply to
M.R. MILLER.

IMPROVED FREEHOLD ESTATES.
PAKOWHAI, NEAR NAPIER.
440 ACRES, 416 ACRES, 613 ACRES.
TO BE SOLD BY PUBLIC AUCTION
AT NAPIER ON
MONDAY FEBRUARY 26,
At Noon.

M.R. MILLER
HAS received positive instructions from the owner of the above properties, Alex. McHardy, Esq., to dispose of all his freehold lands at Pakowhai, in three separate, compact blocks, each complete and workable in itself – and present improvements, except buildings, rendering each block capable of re-division, if afterwards found desirable by the purchaser.  The whole of the lands are under English grasses, watered by seven artesian wells, and are divided into numerous paddocks, each having all requisite surface drainage provided for. The fences are most substantial, a number of them double with live, quick hedges. These, with small plantations dotted over the property, afford ample shelter. This estate, now well-known as the best fattening country in New Zealand, is carrying fat, an average of AT LEAST SEVEN SHEEP PER ACRE. It is handy to market and Port, the nearest point being about six miles from Napier. On the 440 acre block, there are a substantial Dwelling House and Offices, Stables, Looseboxes, Cowsheds, numerous yards, and a dip. The Woolshed and Yards are within 2¼ miles of the Farndon Railway Station.
As the Owner requires not only all his available capital, but also to bestow all of his attention on a larger and more distant property, he finds it ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY TO EFFECT A SALE of this.  To ensure this result the reserve is really nominal, having NOW BEEN REDUCED to a sum far below value. The terms will be easy, as about TWO-THIRDS will remain on mortgage AT SEVEN PERCENT for EIGHT YEARS.
As the property must be quitted, intending buyers will do well to pay an early visit. Plans may be seen and further particulars obtained at the offices of the auctioneer,
M.R. MILLER,
Napier.
Napier, 8^th January, 1877.

COUNTRY RESIDENCE
AND
LEASEHOLD LAND,
FARNDON.

FOR SALE, the Goodwill of Lease (about 10 years to run) of 12 acres of Land immediately adjoining the Railway Station, Farndon, divided into three Paddocks richly grassed, and a well-stocked garden and orchard, artesian well, &c.; together with a neat and comfortable Dwelling house, detached Kitchen, Stable, Coach-shed, &c., the property of Duncan McDougall, Esq., who is about to leave this district. Possession can be given end of January.
Mr. McDougall has spared no expense in internal arrangements of the house to make it comfortable. The whole of the furniture may be taken at a valuation, and two quiet milk cows now in use, a thoroughly staunch well-broken harness mare and double buggy, can also be sold along with the property. Also, a small standing crop of Oats.
This very desirable residence presents an opportunity for a family wishing to reside near town, and yet have the convenience of the country, rarely offered. The price very moderate.
For further particulars, apply to
M.R. MILLER.

FOR SALE,
A THRASHER AND ELEVATOR,
Also,
A Three Horse-power Thrashing Machine.
Apply to
J.J. TYE
Repository, Waipawa.

TO RUNHOLDERS, GRAZIERS, AND OTHERS.
MR. J.J. TYE
HAS the pleasure of announcing that at the request of a number of the leading settlers in the Southern part of the Province, he has made arrangements for holding a
LARGE
SHEEP, CATTLE, AND HORSE SALE
At Waipukurau,
ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7,
Suitable Paddocking and other necessary conveniences will be provided, and it is intended to establish the Sale as a half-yearly one.
The central position of Waipukurau, connected as it is with Napier, the West Coast, and Wairarapa, by railway and good roads, will, it is expected, attract purchasers from these important districts, as they will be enabled readily to supply themselves with a choice of such Stock as they require. On the other hand, runholders, or others sending Stock to the Sale, will have the great advantage of the competition which the attendance of a large number of buyers always ensures.
Stock owners desirous of making a trial of the proposed Sale, are respectfully invited to communicate with the undersigned as early as possible.
JOSEPH J. TYE,
Auctioneer,
Stock and Station Agent, Waipawa, or to
H. MONTEITH,
Commission Agent, Waipukurau.

FOR SALE
YOUNG SHORTHORN BULLS.
THE undersigned is instructed by the Hon. H.R. Russell, to take Orders for Young Bulls of this Season, the produce of his celebrated bull, the Crown Prince, out of seven-eight’s bred Abbot cows.
Crown Prince and his two sons took each the First Prize in their class at the late Hawke’s Bay Agricultural Show, and the Abbot, the sire of the cows, (which was purchased by Mr. Russell from the Hon. Col. Whitmore), is universally known, and has left stock in the district, second to no other bull.
Also,
MERINO RAMS – Got by Powling’s celebrated Rams, out of Ewes bred from a small flock of Sheep, imported in 1862, and which have always been carefully attended to and improved.
LINCOLN RAMS – Got by two of Kirkham’s best imported Rams, out of pure Lincoln Ewes.
For further particulars apply to
J0SEPH J. TYE,
Stock and Station Agent,
Waipawa and Waipukurau.

SHEEP FOR SALE.
4000 MERINO WETHERS, 8-tooth; delivery immediately
2000 Merino Ewes, 8-tooth, delivery February
600 Merino Wethers, 8-tooth; delivery immediately
600 Merino Ewes, 6 and 8-tooth; delivery January
900 ⅞ Lincoln Ewes, 2,4, 6 and – tooth; delivery February
500 Cross-bred Ewes, 6 and 8-tooth, delivery January
170 Merino Hoggetts and Lambs; delivery February
700 Fat Cross-bred Wethers
J.J. TYE,
Waipawa.

FREEHOLD LAND, WOODVILLE.
ON DEFERRED PAYMENTS.
THE undersigned has instructions to sell on Liberal Terms the undermentioned well-selected sections at Woodville: –
No. 153 – 80 acres.
No. 154 – 105 acres.
No. 184 – 80 acres.
No. 185 – 143 acres.
No. 199 – 73 acres.
M.R. MILLER.

[…]

THE WEEKLY MERCURY.   3

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

MR. TIFFEN AS A CANDIDATE.
SIR, – I am not one who often cares to rush into print, but perceiving that Mr. Tiffen is now a candidate seeking our suffrages, and further attempting to obtain votes by personal canvassing instead of boldly meeting the electors of the district, I would wish to remind my fellow-electors at Taradale in a few words as possible why they should refuse to assist in electing him. Mr. Tiffen, it is true, has been before the public of Hawke’s Bay in various capacities – as an officer of the Government – as a member of the Provincial Council, and also as Chairman of our Road Board. As an officer of the Government, we can only too well remember how he was appointed as Chief Surveyor of this province, and afterwards as Land Commissioner by the late Dr. Featherston, and how he sold that gentleman to whom he owed so many favors. As a member of the Provincial Council of Hawke’s Bay, it is well-known that his vote could never be depended on. He was always like Balaam, halting between two opinions; and when the time for voting came, he looked to the right and the left, and eventually supported those, whom he thought had place, patronage, and power, at their disposal. As a member and Chairman of the Road Board, what course did he follow? Many of his dupes will remember the time he informed them that unless they paid 10s in as rates, they could not vote, and how afterwards when ratepayers in order to be enabled to vote paid the ten shillings, he refused to allow them to use the franchise they thought they had thus obtained. Or, can we forget the day, when he stood up with a number of proxies in his hand, and taunted us – by informing the meeting that it mattered little how we voted, as he held a sufficient number of votes so that he could elect whom he liked, or whom be pleased. And yet now he would feign come forward as the friend of the small farmer – of the working man pleading that we should be unanimous in this election – prove true to ourselves and elect himself. I hope, sir, that the electors of the Taradale district, will be true to themselves, and give their votes to one whom they can trust, whose past political career has not been of a two-faced character, but on the other hand, to be depended on by Ministers or Opposition. Should we elect Mr. Tiffen, we know we shall elect one whose promises are like pie-crust. If we are unanimous in refusing to give him support, we will show that like wise men we put faith only in those who by their conduct in the past, have proved worthy of our confidence. – l am, &c.
TARADALE SETTLER.
Taradale, January 17, 1877.

COLONIAL PRIZE FIRING.
SIR, – At the competition for choice of representatives at the Colonial Prize Firing, Gunner Mogridge, who made the highest score, was declared the representative for this district for 1877. There were other competitors, the next highest scorers being Gunners Ross, Gilberd, and Sellers respectively. Now, the Prize Firing Regulations stipulates that extra representatives will be allowed to compete provided that they obtain the minimum score allowed. I believe, Sir, that Gunner Sellers is to be the extra representative from Napier, in preference to Gunners Ross and Gilberd, the Artillery Company paying his expenses. The fact is, according to the regulations, Gunner Ross is the extra representative, and I believe he was willing to proceed to Hokitika on the same conditions as Sellers, if he was allowed time to obtain information as to whether the Company would provide him with the “necessary,” but that time was not granted him, for what reason I know not, although I believe it was given to Sellars. Now, I ask, how is it that Sellars, who made the lowest score, is placed before Ross and Gilberd, who, I believe will contest at Hokitika on the condition of the Company paying their expenses? Is it one of those cases of favoritism of the Government, which is becoming so common lately? Or is it a piece of officialdom, which places the wrong man before the right, and which is winked at by their superiors? At any rate, in my opinion, it is a very unfair and unjust proceeding, and one which will – and I have not the slightest hesitation in saying so – make Volunteering a thing of the past in Napier in a very short time.
Trusting that I have not trespassed too much on your valuable space. – I am, &c.,
AN OLD VOLUNTEER.
Napier, January 19, 1877.

THE ELECTION.
SIR, – I see the Herald, in a subleader this morning, says that – “Mr; Rhodes made a grave mistake in giving the distinct pledge he did at Petane to the Denominationalists.” I never gave any such distinct pledge, in the first place; or anything, but an affirmation that, as far as I knew, our Hawke’s Bay Education Act (which I assisted to pass) was the fairest sample of its kind; inasmuch as it allowed a denominational school (i.e. the Roman Catholic) to receive capitation money in common with other schools, where all had to contribute alike in the way of taxes under the Act.
All small attacks and prophecies I can afford to overlook and wink at, seeing how little effect in the past they have produced; but this more serious allegation – that I have pledged myself to sup [support] Denominationalism generally, without reservation – requires immediate contradiction on my part. – I am, &c.,
J. RHODES.
January 20, 1877.

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT.
SIR, – Should Mr. Sutton be elected, it cannot be said that he sailed in under false colors. He has distinctly announced himself as a thick, thin, and unscrupulous supporter of Ministers. Nor can we wonder at it, considering the obligations he is under to one of the Ministers – Mr. 0rmond. – But I desire to ask my fellow electors whether it is to their interests to return another obsequious tool to the Minister of Public Works. I had thought Mr. Sutton would have made some show at independence, but as he dare not, I would greatly prefer that we should have a thorough independent man like Mr. Rhodes, who has always been consistent, and given his vote and support for what he has considered would advance the whole district. We want no more tools, we had enough of them in the Provincial Council. Let us therefore show on the day of election by voting for Rhodes, we are not going to place in the House a person who is bound to go with the Ministry whether he wills it or no. – I am &c.,
MEANEE
January 20, 1877.

TARADALE VOTES.
SIR, – Relative to “Taradale Settler’s” letter of the 17th inst., it behoves us to wait patiently before we make up our mind to whom we shall give our votes. Let us hear each candidate‘s views. Surely they each will pledge themselves to support some measure. It is well known the sheep farmers are well represented. What is wanted, is a man who will faithfully carry out measures that will benefit the middle and poorer classes – not the squatters; they have everything they can possibly desire, and, as long as it is possible, they will take care we (the middle and poorer classes) pay the piper. There is no doubt but that Mr. Sutton will, if he plays his cards right, secure a number of votes here, especially from those among us who have taken up land on deferred payments, lately granted by the Waste Lands Boards elsewhere, if he will take them by the hand and support measures conducive to their welfare, vide extension of railway, forming roads, &c. Under the Counties Act, viz. local immediate taxation, it is our own fault if we are heavily taxed for district purposes; let us one and all share alike. Electors, beware! It is a critical time. Wait, and think well before you pledge your votes. You yet have time to well consider the matter. It is generally thought here that the contest will be between Mr. Buchanan and Mr. Sutton; but, if Mr. Coleman appears in the field to split the votes, that he (Mr. Sutton) will be the winning man. It so, I trust he will stick to his colors. – I am, &c.,
ANGLER,
January 20, 1877.

MR. BUCHANAN’S ADDRESS.
SIR, – In reading Mr. Buchanan’s address there comes irresistably to the mind the story of the old blind patriarch doubting the identity of his son – the hand is the hand of Esau but the voice is that of Jacob. – And so it is with Mr. Buchanan’s address. The voice is that of somebody else; I fail to recognise a single expression of opinion, one idea on men or politics that of old distinguished him from his fellows. There is plenty of smoke, but no fire; the light of other days has faded, and Mr. Buchanan has sunk to the level of the common place provincial politicians of a bye-gone era, whose milk and watery utterances were alone acceptable to the authorities. In this novel character what claim to the support of the electors can Mr. Buchanan possibly put forward? As newly made converts are usually petted and encouraged, so, perhaps, Mr. Buchanan may expect every assistance in the new path into which, he says, he has directed his steps. For myself, I do not believe in sunden [sudden] conversions, either religious or political. Mr. Buchanan has not only turned his coat, but the whole of his attire, and, wrong side outwards, the apparel gives him such a harlequin appearance that I cannot but expect he will change into something else before the electors have done with him. As an out and out opposition man, a staunch friend and a bitter enemy, he always maintained the respect of his opponents. As a nothing-at-all – a possible wolf in sheep’s clothing – he can hardly anticipate the support of his old adherents, or obtain that of those he formerly opposed. – I am, &c. HALF CIRCLE.
Napier, January 22nd, 1877.

PROPOSED RATE AND WORKS AT TARADALE.
SIR, – it is currently reported here, at Taradale, that active steps are being taken by means of a petition in order to get a rate levied for the purpose of protecting Taradale and surroundings from the overflow of the Tutaekuri. If so, it is to be hoped that this time the scheme will not be fruitless, as the previous ones. It is possible that it is on this account that our local Road Board slumbers, not wishing to waste the public funds until they see their intended works protected. It certainly seems folly to improve either private or public property until this work is completed, viz. – the embankment of the river, is most certainly the starting point. But, while the Boards are right here not to expend large sums of money, still there are lesser works which require attending to, viz. – repairing of small culverts or miniature bridges over creeks, such as that in the vicinity of Mr. O’Dwyer, the neglect in repairing the name being most dangerous. – I am, &c.,
ANIMUS.
Taradale, January 22, 1877.

THE LATE SIR DONALD McLEAN.
The Auckland Herald has the following further particulars respecting the parentage and early days of the late deceased gentleman, Sir Donald McLean: -“ Sir Donald was the youngest son of Mr. John McLean of Kilmalnag, on the Island of Tyree, Argyleshire, Scotland. The Kilmalnag family – who were offshoots of the McLeans of Coll – resided in Tyree for several generations as tackersmen, paying a nominal rent to the Duke of Argyle, of whose large estates in the Western islands that island forms a portion. Sir Donald McLean’s father married a daughter of the Rev. Donald McColl, minister of Tyree, by whom he had a large family, several of these dying in infancy. Mr. McColl educated one of his sons (Donald) for the ministry, and after being licensed to preach, he was appointed missionary at Kingairloch, on the west of Loch Linnhe, and within sixteen miles of Fort William. When only twelve or thirteen years of age, Donald McLean was taken to Kingairloch by his rev. uncle, with the view of giving him a liberal education, and thus preparing him for one of the learned professions. Young Donald did not, however, like the idea at being made a parson, a doctor, or a lawyer, and he stoutly set his mind against learning, and hated attending school. His uncle, who was a bachelor, did all he could to impress on his nephew the impropriety of neglecting his education in his boyish days and frequently told him that if he lived till he arrived at manhood he would deeply regret his folly; and this prediction was fully verified in the assiduity, with which young McLean applied himself to the requirement of knowledge after receiving his first appointment under the New Zealand Government. No doubt he often called his uncle’s advice to recollection, and as often upbraided himself for not complying with it. When about nineteen years old he left home and took ship from Glasgow to Sydney, where he remained for some months, and then sailed for New Zealand. After the disruption in the Church of Scotland in 1843, the Rev. Donald McColl left Kingairloch, he having received a presentation to the parish of Glenorchy, in the upper part of Lorn, where he spent the remainder of his days, and where he kept up regular communication with his nephew, whom he greatly esteemed for the energy he had shewn in improving his position after leaving home. Mr. McColl died about eight years ago at the age of 79. The only near relative of the late Sir Donald’s now living at home is an aunt, the widow of the late Rev. Lachlan McKenzie, minister of Jura, Argyleshire – who is bordering upon fourscore years. Sir Donald McLean was entirely a self- taught man, he being scarcely able to read or write when he arrived in this colony.

[…]

4   THE WEEKLY MERCURY.

LOCAL AND GENERAL NEWS

Under the Municipal Corporation Act of last session it is provided that in every undivided Borough the Council shall consist of nine Councillors, exclusive of the Mayor.
As the Council is not composed of this number, it will be necessary for all the Councillors to retire from office upon the second Thursday in September next.

It is reported that the Corporation reservoir in course of construction on the hill above St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, is exhibiting signs of weakness. If this is the case, it is fortunate for those that live under the hill that the discovery has been made. We understand that the Public Works Committee’s attention will be officially drawn to this matter at its next sitting.

An accident occurred at the Spit last week. The stewardess of the Rangitira, in going on board that vessel, slipped between the wharf and the steamer, but, fortunately without any serious results. The accident was caused by the plank, which serves as a passage from the wharf to the steamer, not being properly fixed to the ship’s deck, and when the stewardess was proceeding on board, it tipped up, and the lady was precipitated into a watery position, from which she was speedily extricated.

We should like to know whether it is a fact that the Corporation Nightman, by the terms of his contract, has to provide a covered cart for the removal of refuse. The effluvium from the cart when passing at night is beyond description, and creates a nuisance that demands the interference of the Inspector.

Mr. Rhodes, in addressing the electors at Petane last week, expressed the opinion that working for nothing was a game that was played out. Probably it is one in which he himself has never taken part. Mr Rhodes said the Mayor of Napier worked without pay for the first year, but this year he had got £200, and next, the salary would be £300. Mr. Stewart, we may state, worked zealously for two years for nothing, and on the third year took office with the intention of fulfilling his duties without remuneration. The £200 voted him by the Council were offered and accepted as an honorarium. Mr. Rhodes is now a candidate for the vacant seat in the Municipal Council. Are we to believe from his remarks that, if elected in course of time to the Mayoral chair, he will demand £300 a year for his services?

Mr J.N. Wilson returned to Napier on Saturday, overland from Wellington.

The condition of Hastings-street, with its pools of water, mudholes, and footpath obstructions, certainly demands some little attention from the Municipal authorities. The method adopted of watering the streets, we are under the impression, has something to do with the rapid decay of the roadway. The water from the hose is splashed in torrents in places, while other spots are left deep in dust. Is there no one to direct or control the actions of the employees of the Corporation?

One or two Poundkeepers are required to be appointed within the County of Hawke’s Bay, but owing to the ridiculous action taken by the Council, the posts cannot be filled by other than the Governor. This is local government with a vengeance! The Council under the leadership of Colonel Whitmore was handed over the wealthiest portion of the provincial district of Hawke’s Bay hand and foot to the Wellington central authorities. The Clive electors should be proud of having elected Colonel Whitmore.

The Lingards had another successful performance on Thursday before a good house. The first piece was “My Wife’s Lover,” in which Mrs. Lingard took the part of Pauline, who played naturally, and as usual was charming. Mr. Lingard as Citizen Sang froid acted carefully, and made most of the character. Mr. St. Lawrence as Alphonse was very funny, although the part evidently did not suit him. “Not such a Fool as he looks,” one of Byron’s latest comedies, was the piece de resistance, in which Miss Lawrence and Mr. Rede had the most arduous work, and by their admirable acting of the characters of Mr. and Mrs. Mould, fairly earned the well-merited applause they received. Simon Pure required those peculiar abilities for which Mr. Lingard has already given evidence of possession. It is needless to state that he performed his part with a just appreciation of the author’s conception.
The dust contractor is bound by his contract to remove all refuse from houses by eight o’clock in the morning. Generally speaking, boxes of rubbish are to be seen standing at the corner of Brewster Street at twelve o’clock. On Saturday, the dust cart, half-full of refuse, smelling fearfully, was standing at the corner of Brewster Street at twelve o’clock. Moreover, there did not appear on the cart the name of its owner, or the number of its license. The attention of the Inspector of Nuisances was called to the matter, and we await the result.

The swamp reclamation contractors are pushing a-head with their work. Thackeray street – a continuation of Dickens street – has been filled in from the Town Hall reserve to the corner of Millar street near the Railway Station, and a short cross road into Carlyle street has also been reclaimed.

A bazaar in aid of the West Clive Church building fund will be held in the Oddfellows’ Hall, in about a week.

The Interprovincial Cricket Match between Otago and Canterbury, resulted on Friday in a victory for the latter team, who won by 150 runs.

A sum amounting to over £700 has been subscribed towards the erection of a new church in Napier, to be built for the Rev. S. Robinson. The subscription list was only opened on Friday. As soon as £1,000 are collected the work of erection will be begun.

The Wanganui Chronicle in an article on the several journals in New Zealand, thus refers to Hawke’s Bay: – “The TELEGRAPH has enlarged and is now equal in size to the Post, and the Herald is also about to do so immediately. Napier can now boast of as creditable representative organs as any town of similar resources in the colony.”

In another column will be found an advertisement of the anniversary services of Trinity Church, Clive-square. Special sermons will be breached by Mr. Smalley, on Sunday, the 28th inst., and a soiree will take place on the following Tuesday. Tea will be served in the Protestant Hall at 6.30 p.m., and a sacred concert will be held in the church at 7.30 p.m. The entertainment promises to be a very attractive affair. A gallery will be erected over the pulpit, which will be occupied by the children of the school and choir, who will render a short service of song illustrative of the “Prodigal Son,” with Mr. Walker as conductor and Miss Martin at the harmonium. The second part of the entertainment will consist of solos, duets, and anthems from the choir, assisted by several of our popular local amateurs, with Mr. Bear at the organ. Already a large number of tickets are sold.

The proposal to build a theatre at Napier has again been revived. The insufficient accommodation afforded at the Oddfellows’ Hall whenever any good dramatic company visits this town, creates the impression that a building constructed specially for theatrical representations would be a profitable undertaking for a joint stock company.

We learn that Mr. Firth of Te Aute has made arrangements for the establishment of a saw-mill at Norsewood.

Mdlle. de Murska and her husband, Mr. John Hill, left Melbourne for London on the 11th instant.

The Rev. S. Edger has been elected Worthy Grand Templar, the late chief, Mr. Speight, declining to be nominated.

The prizes that fell to the Napier subscribers to the Royal Scotch Art Union arrived here by the Rangitira. A handsome oil painting, of the value of £52 10s, fell to the lot of Mr. Stoddart, engineer on board the Southern Cross.

The farewell performance of the Lingards was given on Friday to a crowded house. The favorite comedy “Our Boys” was repeated; Mrs. Lingard, as usual, making a most fascinating “Mary Melrose,” and quite brought down the house in the proposal scene. Miss St. Lawrence made the most of her part of “Violet;” but as the ladies of the comedy have exceedingly light parts, Miss St. Lawrence had comparatively easy work. Mr. Lingard, in his part, was even more amusing than ever. Mr. St. Lawrence, as the young, generously-minded swell, acted in a masterly manner. Mr. Rede took the part of the baronet in a quiet, gentlemanly manner; and Mr. Bell, one of “Our Boys,” showed considerable signs of improvement in his part. The part of “Aunt Clarissa” was fairly taken by Mrs. Thornton; and Miss A. Thornton received rounds of applause in the short, but exceedingly amusing part of “B-B-B-l-linda.” The last act was played very spiritedly, but the first seemed to hang fire a little. This, in a great measure, was due to the presence of three or four “sweet little cherubs” who favored the audience with solos, duets, trios, &c., much to the annoyance of their respective mothers, and the discomfort and indignation of the rest of the audience.

From a private telegram received this morning from Wellington, we learn that the action for damages taken by Mr. Toxward, an architect, against Mr. Hastwell, coach proprietor, for injuries sustained through the upsetting of Mr. Hastwell’s coach, when on its way to Wellington to Wairarapa, has resulted in favour of Mr. Hastwell, Mr. Toxward failing to prove his case.

The Court of St. Charles, Napier, A.O.F., will celebrate its fifth anniversary on the 1^st February next. The Court Sir [St.] Charles Napier, was the first branch of the Order established in this town, commencing with twenty-seven members, it now numbers over one hundred. It has been the parent of the Lord Clyde, Wairoa, Captain Cook, Napier, Sir Henry Havelock, Havelock, Courts in Hawke’s Bay. The Secretary has now received a dispensation , &c., to open a Court at Gisborne, to be called Court Gladstone, which will be opened during the present month by P.C.R. Walker. The total strength of the Order in this province is about two hundred and fifty.

There was only one nomination of a candidate for the vacant seat in the Municipal Council received by the Returning Officer on Monday. That candidate is Mr. H.R. Holder, upon whose unopposed re-election we offer our congratulations.

The following draft of a warrant, having for its object the protection of salmon and trout, has been sent to the chairmen of the various Acclimatisation Societies for their consideration, before advising its issue by his Excellency the Governor: – 1. No person, excepting as hereafter provided, shall fish for salmon or salmon trout in any part of the colony, or use any net or other engine instrument, or device, for taking fish in any river or stream in which young salmon or salmon trout, or salmon fry or spawn, or salmon trout fry or spawn are placed or deposited. 2. No person, excepting as hereinafter provided, shall have in his possession any salmon or salmon trout. 3. All nets or other engines, instruments or devices whatever, used contrary to the provisions of these regulations, shall be seized, forfeited, destroyed, or removed, as the case may require. 4. The penalty for every offence against the above regulations shall be a sum not exceeding £100. Nothing in these regulations shall be held to be applicable to any Acclimatisation Society or their officers, or agents, or to any other body, or persons in charge of fish-breeding experiments.

[…]

A good story is told of one of the candidates for the representation of Napier. Some months ago a subscription was set on foot for the purchase of a fire engine, and this candidate was asked to put his name on the list. This he refused, saying “I have no interest in the town; my house is perfectly safe.” He has since discovered that he has a lively interest in Napier, and the other day, meeting the canvasser for the Fire-brigade, asked him for his vote. “Well,” said the canvasser, “I asked you for subscription some time ago for a fire engine, and you said, in effect, it did not matter to you if the whole town was burnt down. Let us first settle that, and then we will talk politics.”

“Put my name down for £5, and let us talk politics,” said the candidate in reply. The name against a five pound subscription was soon written down, and then the canvasser said, “and now for politics; l have already promised my vote.” Tableau – exit, candidate indignant, canvasser laughing.

We understand that the eminent actor, Mr Emmett, is likely to visit Napier shortly, in conjunction with a theatrical troupe. He has latterly been playing to crowded houses in the Southern provinces.

Mr. James Watt’s three horses, Ariel, Ngairo, and a Lady-bird colt arrived by the Southern Cross, on Sunday, and were landed in excellent condition. Ariel and Ngairo will be entered for the forthcoming Hawke’s Bay Autumn meeting, which will be held in Mr. S. Johnston’s paddocks, West Clive.

On Friday afternoon, as Constable Gruner was making his rounds at Port Ahuriri Harbor, he heard a splash in the water, and on proceeding to the spot he perceived one of John Northe’s children struggling for life. The child came to the surface for the third time, when Constable Gruner caught it by the hand, and succeeded in rescuing it.

The letter portion of the Suez mail arrived in Napier overland on Saturday, and the newspapers were received by the steamer Kiwi on Monday.

From private letters received from Auckland on Monday, we regret to learn that Sir George Grey continues in a very weak state of health, and that he is unable to take his usual out-door walks. He is still residing at Kawau.

A country gentleman in Taranaki boiled down a large dog for the sake of the fat. He was absent for some time, and when he returned he found that the cook had been frying the steaks and onions with that fat.

Our ex-Governor, Sir James Fergusson, has been defeated in his contest for a seat for Frome in the House of Commons.

We shall soon have three Maori newspapers in New Zealand, the Waka Maori, Wananga, and a journal which is to be issued in the King country, and which is to be under the immediate supervision of His Maori Majesty and his Executive.

The Rev. S. Robinson preached at Havelock on Sunday morning. The rev. gentleman will shortly visit Melbourne for the benefit of his health, and will probably be absent from Napier until the church is erected that is about to be built for him.

We are glad to learn that Mr. Sinclair, who received such severe injuries some weeks ago by falling from his horse, and whose life was almost despaired of, is now so far recovered that he will be able to leave the hospital in about ten days. A cork leg has been ordered from England to replace the one amputated, and on its arrival, we trust to see Mr. Sinclair walking about as well as ever.

Mr. Buchanan has at length publicly announced his intention to seek the suffrages of the electors. His address will be found in another column. Its chief interest lies in the fact that, apparently, Mr. Buchanan has at length discovered the inutility of kicking against the pricks, and expresses an intention of working in harmony with Mr. Ormond. Is this an electioneering dodge, or sincere?

The Artillery Volunteers will be glad to hear that their new uniforms have arrived at Auckland. As soon as they reach Napier, they will be unpacked at Messrs. Routledge, Kennedy and Co.’s store Tennyson-street, and be at once distributed to the members of the company.

Mr. W.H. Flood was the fortunate winner of the piano that was raffled by the Gymnasium Club on Saturday. Mr. Flood had been presented with a ticket for executing certain repairs on the piano, and was not present at the raffle. A friend, however, “threw” for him, and topped the highest score, for which £10 had just been paid on the chance of it not being beaten.

The organ for St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, we hear, is on board the ship Fernglen, which sailed from London early in December last.

There has been an extraordinary failure of justice at Launceston. The Tasmanian Parliament, during its last session, passed a new Juries Act, which does not come into force until July, and the former one had been repealed. Consequently Chief Justice Smith rulled [ruled] that no juries could be empanelled; the Attorney-General had to enter a nolle prosequi; and six prisoners to be discharged.

Through the courtesy of Major Richardson, who takes the trouble of registering the rain fall at Te Kapu, our Wairoa correspondent has been enabled to give us the following information re the rain fall at that station, during the past year. Total (in inches) 59.97, being a decimal under 5 inches per month on the average. The highest month was January with 15.99 inches, and the lowest September with 80. January, 15.99; February, 4.56; March, 3.97 ; April, 6.07; May, 4.45; June, 3.64; July, 6.72; August, 3.00; September .80; October, 2.68; November, 3.61; December 4.57. Total, 50.95 inches.

[…]

THE WEEKLY MERCURY.   5

The Harbor Board met on Tuesday, when a letter was read from the Secretary of Customs calling upon the Board to carry out the Regulations relative to gangways. Several accounts were passed, and ordered to be paid. The Committee brought up the report on the reserves, which was adopted, together with the schedule attached. It was resolved that the lease for 21 years of the sections mentioned in the schedule should be submitted to public auction on February 23.

A special meeting of the Volunteer Fire Brigade was held in the Forester’s Arms Hotel on Monday, at which most of the members were present. It was decided that the color of the tunic should be navy blue, and the material procured from the Mosgiel factory. A plate, with the word “Fireman,” was approved of, which it was resolved should be placed on the residences of the members of the Brigades. A resolution was unanimously passed to the Fire Brigades of Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin, thanking them for kindness shown, and the information afforded to Mr. R. Yui’l[Yule], while representing the Napier Brigade. The Secretary was instructed to forward the above resolution to the members of those Brigades.

Because clouds of dust have been blowing about for the last week, no steps have been taken to keep the streets watered. The erratic efforts of the Corporation to keep the dust down are really contemptible, and certainly not worth the money expended on the work. Perhaps the dust was possibly too disagreeable on Monday for the authorities to have the heart to set a man to work on the street.

A stone-mason wants to know what the Corporation is paying for cutting the stones now being used for curbing the town footpaths. We have not the slightest idea, but we imagine the Municipal Engineer must be getting the work done as cheaply as possible or the Council, ere this, would have been asking questions.

The New Zealand Herald of the 18th inst says: – The Glenlora brings a valuable stock of choice-bred Lincoln and Cotswold sheep, consisting of 16 rams and 58 ewes. The care bestowed on these during the voyage is evident, from the fact that only one death is recorded, the rest being in prime condition, and look as if only just off the pasture. Two rams of the Cotswold class – a breed not very popular in this district – are consigned to Mr. Canning of Hawke’s Bay, and are well worthy of inspection by those interested in sheep-farming. Several Lincoln rams are to the order of Mr. G.S. Graham, but the bulk are the property of Mr. Melville Smith, who has long been favourably known as an importer of pure-bred stock. Among the animals is a fine Durham boar, the first of its breed introduced into this district. It is, however, a fine animal.

We regret to hear that Mr. Carrington, who for some time has occupied the post of Assistant District Engineer in this province, continues in a state of health that utterly precludes him from performing the duties of his office.

Mr. E. Withers, who has for a long time filled the onerous position of accountant in the Colonial Bank, Napier, left on Tuesday for Auckland in the Southern Cross to occupy a similar position in that city. Mr. Withers will be greatly missed by our cricketers, he being one at the best in Napier. His departure will also be felt among the musical portion of the community. We wish Mr. Withers every success.

[…]

If the Corporation is too poor to light the streets at night, it has no right to leave pitfalls for the unwary. When obstructions on footpaths have necessarily to be left over-night in the construction of public works, it is usual to erect a lamp to warn people of the danger. This was not done on Monday when the footpath from Mr. Knowles’ shop to the Clarendon Hotel was heaped up with the earth taken from an open trench by the side of the road.

The railway line from Waipukurau to Takapau is, we hear, not likely to be opened for public traffic till the end of this month.

A meeting of the Regatta Committee was held on Tuesday, at which it was resolved to postpone the regatta till Easter Monday. It was also decided that the regatta should be held in the inner harbor, and not on the Ngaruroro, as originally intended. A sailing match and two additional four-oar races were placed on the programme.

There is a prospect of the streets being watered properly. Mr. Barry is having a watering cart fitted up, and we hear, is now ready for use

In the R. M. Court on Tuesday, three several charges of obtaining moneys under false pretences, were heard against William Wilson. The evidence in each case was conclusive against the prisoner, and His Worship sentenced him to six months’ imprisonment with hard labor for each offence, the sentence to be cumulative.

The members of the Napier Cricket Club met on Tuesday at the Criterion Hotel, Mr. W. Mayo in the chair. The formal business of the club being concluded, it was resolved to raise a loan of £50 on the lease of the cricket paddock at Taradale. The financial statement showed a deficit of nearly £40. A reply to a communication forwarded to Dr. Frood was read, which stated that the Waipukurau Club would subscribe £50 towards getting a visit from the All England Eleven, provided the match was played at Waipukurau. No reply had been received from Mr. Bennett, the agent of the All England, who was then at Greymouth.

A meeting of the Committee of the Napier Rowing Club was held on Tuesday night, at which were reported the nature of several young members of the Club for having violated the rules and bye-laws. It was resolved in accordance with rule XXIV, to bring the matter before a general meeting of the members, to be held on Tuesday evening next at the Criterion Hotel.

A case of sudden death occurred on Tuesday at Mr. Cox’s station, Titiokura. A man of the name of Robert Dunn, employed by Mr Cox, left the wool shed and, while in the act of walking to the men’s house for the purpose of going to dinner, fell down dead. The deceased had been complaining previously of a pain in the region of his heart and it is supposed his death was the result of heart disease.

[…]

A man named Peter Bonnell, who was committed by the Resident Magistrate at Masterton in September last, on a charge of forgery, and who affected his escape from confinement the same night, was arrested on Saturday last by the Hawke’s Bay police and conveyed to Palmerston, where he was instantly recognised as the individual for whom enquiry has been so long made in the police Gazettes of this and the neighbouring Colonies.

How twelve Secretaries at £3,600 a year. and twelve Chairmen at £4,800 a year, can under the county system, be more economical than one Secretary at £400, and one Superintendent at £1000, is not very clear to the Tablet.

The next time local traders are allowed to obstruct the footpath by laying down concrete pavement, we trust the Corporation will insist on the work being done under the supervision of the Municipal Engineer. The work will then be properly performed, and will not have to be gone over again to the continued annoyance of foot passengers.

Mr. J.M. Meek (says the N. Z. Herald) has at length completed his arduous task of compiling a chronological tree of New Zealand. It is similar in all essential respects though on a somewhat smaller scale, to the chronological tree of Australia, prepared by the same gentleman. The amount of labour and trouble involved in its compilation have been very great, and now that the work has been brought to a successful issue it only remains for the public to mark their sense of Mr. Meek’s industry in collecting and arranging in a concise form the salient events of New Zealand history by subscribing liberally for lithographed copies of the original, which it is understood the artist will issue its fair promise of support can be secured. The “tree” has been placed in the Museum Building where it may be seen by those so inclined.

We understand Mr. H.R. Russell intends again to stand for the Waipukurau Riding, and that his address will appear in our issue next week.

From a private telegram received on Thursday we learn that Mr. Emmett will not come to Napier for some time yet, he having made up his mind to proceed first to Auckland.

In Mr. Johnson’s shop in Hastings street is to be seen is rare novelty in the shape of an imitation songster, which whistles and warbles similarly to a thrush or blackbird. It has been brought from Dunedin by a gentleman, who has been lately visiting there. This particular novelty was in the last Paris Exhibition. and attracted considerable attention. Anyone looking at it casually could not tell it from a real bird. It is enclosed in a cage, and by some very ingenious machinery has all the movements and gestures of a live bird imparted to it. One peculiarity about it is that it does not keep constantly whistling, but stops at varied intervals, apparently looks about, and then breaks forth again and warbles as naturally as if it were really alive.

On Wednesday evening, at Taradale, a man was found brutally ill-using his wife, by beating her in a most unmerciful manner. It is to be hoped that the police will take the matter up, so that he may receive his deserts at the hands of Mr Beetham.

In the Resident Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, a case was heard against Mr. Jessop under the Debt Abolition Act, he not having settled the claim of his late partner (Hassell) for £20, for which judgment was lately recorded. Defendant pleaded that he had not the wherewithal. He was ordered to pay the debt by instalments of £2 per week, commencing on the 31st instant, and in default of payment to be imprisoned for two months.

Mr. Tiffen, instead of calling a meeting of electors, answers, through the TELEGRAPH a number of queries on matters political. Should Mr. Tiffen be returned, instead of addressing the House of Representatives, we shall doubtless find him handing to the Hansard reporters speeches he ought to deliver. This course will save reporters a great deal of trouble, and his return would be counted by them a blessing.

A blacksmith, named Hills, in the employ of Mr Wells, of Hastings street, had a miraculous escape of his life on Thursday. He was engaged shoeing a horse, alongside of which was tethered a young animal, which was of a most restive disposition. Something appears to have startled the young horse, who commenced kicking out. With his forefeet he drew Hill under him, and then struck out at him with his hind legs, hitting him twice in the small of the back, knocking him almost to the middle of the shop, where Hill lay for some time senseless. After Hill came round, he was removed to his home, where Dr. Spencer examined his body. Strange to say, no bones were broken, although it is expected it will take him some time to recover from the shock of the blows. Fortunately for Hill, he is a member of the Society of Foresters, and will, during his illness, be in receipt of sick-pay, and also obtain medical attendance and medicine gratis.

Some ruffian or another stole the rowlocks from the pilot boat on Wednesday. The theft was not discovered till the evening, when the boat had to be despatched to the Western Spit. The crew, as usual, pushed the boat into the stream, and then found that the rowlocks had been taken away. Now if the despatch of the boat had been a matter of life or death – some unfortunate man drowning, or a boat capsized on the bar – the theft of the rowlocks might have been attended by the most serious results. We certainly trust if the thief is discovered that he will be most severely dealt with.

Mr. McDougall, who is leaving our district for Wairarapa, has had the good fortune to secure Kingfisher, Mr. Allan McLean’s well known thoroughbred horse, for 400 guineas, through Mr. Miller. The settlers of Wairarapa may be congratulated on securing this noble horse.

In the R. M. Court on Thursday, John McKenzie, of Pukahu, was charged, on the information of Robert Moffit, Sergeant of Police, with being a lunatic, and not under proper care and control. He was remanded for medical examination. The presiding Justices were Colonel Lambert and J.A. Smith, Esq.

In a letter to the Morning Post, Mr. Guildford Onslow denies the statement that the Claimant has, by misconduct, forfeited his right to a reduction in his period of penal servitude, Mr. 0nslow writes: – “l have received a letter from the governor of Dartmoor Convict Prison informing me that the convict Thomas Castro, is eligible to receive a visit from his friends, and that he can be communicated with in the usual way by letter. Had the Claimant been guilty of any breach of prison discipline he would have forfeited his right to a visit from his friends, and all correspondence would be suspended. On the other hand the governor assures me he is eligible for both visit and a letter – favors never before granted until the usual six months had expired. This shows pretty clearly that his uniform good conduct in prison has met its reward. The report of his having misconducted himself is another of those base attempts to disparage him in the eyes of the public.”

The Kumara Times of the 5th instant says of the workmen employed in digging the cellar for Mr. Bulstrode’s new hotel, Main-road, had at their leisure the curiosity to wash a dish of the dirt which was being dug out, and the result was a splendid prospect of scaly gold.

[…]

A meeting of persons interested in the erection of an Episcopalian Church at Hastings, was held on Wednesday at that township. Mr. J.N. Williams in the chair. The Rev. W. Marshall opened the proceedings, by informing the meeting of the success that had attended the efforts of the canvassing committee. The sum already promised amounted to £420. The rev. gentleman then referred to the opposition he had met with from the chairman; that gentleman had objected to the plans of the church, to the fact of an architect not having been employed, and had raised objections to the manner in which the undertaking had been initiated. Mr. Williams had insisted that the first thing to be done was to have the site for the church approved of by the Bishop‘s Commissary, and all proceedings carried out under the strict letter of the Synodical rules. Mr. Marshall then moved that Mr. Vicker’s offer of a section for a church site should be accepted, and the church erected thereon immediately. Mr Williams, who had left the chair, moved as an amendment that no immediate steps be taken to build the church, but that a committee be appointed to discover a better site. The amendment not being seconded, fell through. A building committee was then appointed, and the meeting terminated with a special vote of thanks to Mr Vickers.

A complete change has been made in the mail service from England to America, the contract with the Cunard Company having expired at the end of 1876, mails are now forwarded on certain fixed dates by the most efficient vessels sailing on those dates, and the owners are to be remunerated by a payment per voyage, based upon the amount of correspondence carried each voyage. The scale is 2d per lb. for newspapers, and 2s 4d for letters.

[…]

6   THE WEEKLY MERCURY.

[…]

COUNTY ELECTIONS PETITIONS.
LEGAL DECISION.
At eleven o‘clock, on Wednesday, Mr Beetham gave the following decision with respect to the Clive and Waipukurau County elections: –
CLIVE ELECTION.
This is a petition filed under section 48 of “The Regulation of Local Elections Act, 1876,” praying that the election for the Riding of Clive may be declared void. The petition does not follow exactly the wording of the sixth schedule of the Act, but, as it contains all the material allegations necessary to give me jurisdiction, I am not disposed to throw it out on that ground.
The main points relied upon by the petitioners are: –
1. That owing to the rejection by the Returning Officer of the votes of a large number of duly qualified electors, who were not allowed to record their votes, an irregularity occurred which tended to defeat the fairness of the election.
2. That the Returning Officer allowed and received cumulative votes, whereas cumulative votes were not authorised under the Counties Act; and that the reception of such votes was another irregularity tending to defeat the fairness of the election.
With the utmost fairness on both sides it is admitted – (1^st) That the Retaining Officer adopted in respect of claims to vote accepted by him the system of plural or cumulative voting.
2. That he accepted no votes, except from persons whose names appeared on the assessment list of the Clive Highway District.
Then we have admitted a detailed statement of the names of those persons whose votes were rejected, or were accepted plurally. Those persons whose votes were rejected were, it is admitted, occupiers of land in the Te Mata and Pakowhai Highway Districts.
With reference to the first alleged irregularity, it is urged by the learned counsel for the petitioners that the occupiers in the two road districts of Te Mata and Pakowhai were legally qualified voters; that is, that they were qualified to vote at Road Board elections; and that, being entitled to vote, under sub-section 1 of the 51st clause of the Counties Act, their votes were wrongly refused by the Returning Officer.
It seems to me that this is the most important point submitted for my decision. The Returning Officer is appointed by, and exercises his power under, “The Regulation of Local Elections Act, 1876.” He is strictly bound by its provisions, and he can receive no votes that he is not authorised to receive by one or other of the clauses of that Act.
In clause 5 of the Regulation of Local Elections Act, I find that every election to any elective office, in respect of which this Act is in force, shall be conducted in the manner provided by this Act and not otherwise.
The Act seems to me to contemplate only two classes of voters, and machinery is provided whereby only those two classes of voters can be received, voters are classed as “enrolled electors” and “persons voting on a miner’s right.” – only certain questions are permitted to be asked in the booth – and the directions given to the Returning Officers are explicit in every respect.
By clause 26 the Returning Officer can only ask certain questions of any voters, the clause is as follows: – “No person shall speak to any voter in a polling booth before such voter has given his vote, except the Returning Officer may ask the questions he is herein authorised to put or give such general directions as may enable a voter to give his vote.
Then Section 27 states: – “Every person proposing to vote shall inform the Returning Officer of his name, and the Returning Officer shall satisfy himself by reference to the Roll or by inspection of the miner‘s right that such person is entitled to vote, &c., &c,
Here is the first reference to the Roll, except in the interpretation clause which says that “Roll means any Roll made in the manner provided by law, containing the names of the persons entitled to vote at an election.
Then Section 28: – “If the names in the Roll are not numbered, the Returning Officer shall cause consecutive numbers to be affixed thereto before the opening of the Poll.
The Act clearly contemplates the existence of a Roll which is to be in the hands of the Returning Officer before the opening of the Poll.
In the case of the Clive Election the only Roll in the possession of the Returning Officer before the opening of the Poll was the list of the ratepayers of the Clive Road Board, this list contains the names of the ratepayers, the value of the assessment, and the number of votes that the ratepayer would be entitled to give at a Road Board election, it is signed by the Chairman, and is numbered consecutively; at half past 3 o’clock, on the day of the election a rough list of all persons liable to pay rates in the Te Mata road district was handed into the Returning Officer, it appears to have been made out in the booth and contains no information except the names of the persons qualified to vote, in some cases only the surnames are given. In my opinion the Returning Officer was perfectly justified in rejecting this list, and in refusing to accept the votes of the persons named in it, on the grounds that he would be unable to comply with the directions contained in section 28 of the regulation of Local Elections Act; he could not have numbered his roll consecutively before the opening of the poll. I do not hear of any roll for the Pakowhai District – nor did the Returning Officer I believe receive one.
Again there appears to be no provision for the supply of the Road Board Assessment Rolls to the Returning Officer – probably he pursued the right course in

THE WEEKLY MERCURY.   7

writing to the Chairman of the respective Boards for them.
It is clear that the Act contemplates the existence of a roll prepared under the provisions of the Counties Act. No such roll was in existence; but the Returning Officer appointed under the Act is not the less bound by its clauses in receiving or rejecting any votes that may be tendered to him. It is not so much a question as to who are qualified voters. It is rather, what votes is the Returning Officer authorised to receive by the Act. He cannot go outside his roll or miners rights. If he makes any inquiry, or asks any questions, except those he is authorised to make by the Act, he exceeds his duty, which he is not justified in doing. If he is to receive votes which are not on a roll, which is numbered consecutively before the opening of the poll, he must necessarily make inquiries, which he is not authorised to do by the Act; and so land himself in inextricable difficulties, besides probably vitiating the election. If in the performance of his duty he disenfranchises half the riding, it is unfortunate, but it cannot be helped.
As regards the question of cumulative or plural voting, the ambiguity of the 51 section of the Counties Act permits a very good argument on either side. It seems to me that as it was the intention of the legislation to allow “every person who is entitled, for the time being, to vote at a Road Board Election in any road district in the riding – to vote” – it was also intended that they should be permitted to vote in the same manner that they would be entitled to vote at a Road Board election – that is cumulatively.
There is only one other point upon which I need express an opinion, namely, the question of outlying districts. There appears to be no outlying district in the Clive Riding, the whole riding being divided into Road Districts. The petition will be dismissed, the only costs allowed being the cost of the advertisement, 20s, which is a portion of the expenses of this inquiry.

WAIPUKURAU ELECTION.
This election will be declared wholly void, upon the ground that the poll was closed within the meaning of subsection 2, clause 50, of “The Regulation of Local Elections Act, 1876.”
The Returning Officer is, as I have already said, not allowed any discretionary powers outside the plain directions contained in the Act. It was in an attempt to exercise a discretion not confided to him by any of its clauses that the Returning officer at Waipukurau occasioned the temporary closing of the poll. He went home to see if a voter was entitled to vote, that is he went outside his roll[role]. The result at this very pardonable misapprehension of his duty shows very plainly how dangerous it would be to place an undefined discretionary power in the hands of a Returning Officer.
The costs allowed will simply be the costs of the advertisement notifying the inquiry. The excitement and pleasure attending the appeal is a luxury which like all other luxuries must be paid for in these cases by both parties.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT
FRIDAY, JANUARY 19.
(Before Richmond Beetham, Esq, R.M.)
CIVIL CASES.
Margoliouth v. Wilson (Gisborne). – Claim, £55 5s 3d. Adjourned until 27th February, defendant’s evdience[evidence] having to be taken at the R.M.’s Court, Gisborne, on February 19.
Bowes v. Arihi te Nahu. – Claim £13 3s, saddlery account. Defendant had filed a plea of coverture, but it appeared that her husband died yesterday. By consent, a judgment was given for the amount claimed, and £1 4s costs. Execution stayed for three months.
Blythe and Co. v. Fergusson. – Claim £51 3s., amount of a drapery account. Judgment for plaintiffs, with costs £2.
Some half-dozen other Civil cases were settled out of Court.

INTERPLEADER.
Berry and Anderson, interpleading; John Anderson, execution creditor; and George Atkinson, execution debtor. – Berry and Anderson claimed a horse which had been taken in execution at the suit of John Anderson, and which had been returned to them by the bailiff of the Court, on their paying the value of the horse into Court, viz., £28. This case occupied the Court about two hours. Mr. Lee conducted Berry and Anderson’s case, Mr Lascelles for John Anderson. A number of witnesses on either side were examined. The interpleading claim was sustained and the Court made order for the return of the £28. Each party to pay his own costs.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20.
DRUNKENNESS
John Leary and James Clark were each charged with the above offence, and acknowledged having taken “a drop too much.” They contributed ten shillings between them to the Colonial Revenue. John Hempenstal, for drunkenness at Port Ahuriri, was allowed the option of paying a fine of 5s, or suffering imprisonment or 24 hours; and for
INDECENCY
of a breach of the Vagrant Act, was further fined 20s, or an additional 24 hours in gaol, He went to spend his Sunday at the Lighthouse Hotel.

BREACH MUNICIPAL BYE-LAWS.
An information had been laid against George Hobbs, for that he, being the driver of a hackney carriage, on the 17th January, did refuse to give way to other carriages in Hastings-street. The hearing was adjourned until Friday, 26th instant.

MONDAY JANUARY 22.
SATURATED.
John Somers, who had imbibed too freely on Saturday evening, and had been taken charge of by the police, and afterwards let out on bail, failed to make his appearance. His bail-money was ordered to be forfeited.
Another old toper (Paton) made his appearance. He pleaded guilty to a charge of drunkenness, and was fined £1 or 48 hours’ imprisonment. The money was paid.

SHEEP KILLING.
L. Higgins, W. Higgins, and D. Sinclair were charged that they did unlawfully kill two sheep, contrary to the statute as in the case made and provided.
Messrs. Lascelles and Cornford appeared for the informants, and Messrs. Lee and Sheehan for the defendant.
Mr Donelly, manager for Mr Maney, deposed that, on Saturday, the 30th inst., he started with a mob of 450 sheep to put them on Paul’s Hill, where Mr Maney had his sheep continually grazing. There were other shepherds with him. He met the three defendants and another man about three-quarters of a mile on the other side of the Moteo Pa. He sent McLeod (a shepherd) to keep the sheep on the road. When he saw the defendant obstructing the sheep, he rode up and told them he would hold them responsible for any damage done. Both the Higgins said they would not allow the sheep to go on; they continued hunting about the sheep. W. Higgins was riding on horseback over the sheep, and struck the sheep with a manuka stick. He left two shepherds in charge of the sheep, with the intention of bringing up another lot of sheep. L. Higgins followed him down, and for a couple of hours stopped the driving by riding in front and galloping through the sheep. He put the sheep on the land, and they are there now. The next day one of the sheep was found dead. It was in the paddock from where the defendant moved the sheep away. The shepherds have since reported to him that they have found other sheep dead.
Cross-examined by Mr. Lee: Higgins told him he was in occupation of the land. He saw them jumping over and using every means to hurt the sheep. Higgins sets up a claim to the land which Mr Maney disputed, and he knew that was the reason Higgins tried to stop the sheep. The dead sheep was found three quarters of a mile from where the disturbance took place. We used force ourselves to put the sheep along. There were five Europeans and a good many natives, possibly 20 natives assisting him to force the sheep on the Sunday morning. When he got to the first gate, there were several natives there, and L. Higgins came up afterwards and told him he should not pass through that land. The Maoris were mostly women. Some of the natives who were acting for him put some of the sheep over the fence and some through, he did not give notice to the occupiers of the property in accordance with the Sheep Act that he was going to drive sheep through.
Angus McLeod deposed that he is a shepherd in Mr. Maney’s employ. On Saturday the 13th, he accompanied Mr. Donelly with some sheep to Paul’s Hill. (Most of this witness’ evidence was in many particulars similar to that given by Mr. Donelly) Peebles spoke to Higgins about striking the sheep, and heard W. Higgins reply, “I would kill the sheep, that I would, they have no business here.” He was carrying a big manuka stick. The contention went on for three hours. During the last 2½ years Mr. Maney’s sheep had, to his knowledge, been grazing on that ground.
Cross-examined by Mr. Lee: Two years ago he lived at the place. On the 6th of December he assisted in mustering the sheep.
George Peebles, corroborated the evidence of the previous witness, and further stated that W. Higgins said to him, “The sheep are not to come on here; this is our ground; I’ll kill them.”
John Glossop, a shepherd in Mr. Maney’s employment gave similar evidence.
Mr. Maney then gave evidence as to his title to the land, on which the sheep were put.
Mr. Lee addressed the Court for the defence, and Mr. Lascelles for the plaintiff.
His Worship dismissed the case, and, in doing so, stated that no evidence had been adduced to show that the sheep had been killed by the defendants.

MR. SUTTON AT TARADALE.
PURSUANT to notice, a meeting of the electors of Taradale was held in the Greenmeadow’s Hotel, on Wednesday evening, to hear Mr. Sutton’s political views. There were between eighty and one hundred people present, and great interest was taken in the proceedings.
Mr. J. Bennett was elected to the chair.
The Chairman in introducing the candidate (Mr. Sutton) in a few well-chosen sentences expressed his regret at the great loss the electors, the district, and the whole colony had sustained through the death of the distinguished statesman Sir Donald McLean, for whose seat Mr. Sutton was before them as a candidate.
Mr Sutton on rising was received with applause. He occupied the attention of the meeting for fully an hour, but he was compelled to go over the same ground as he had trodden in his previous speeches at Petane and Napier; a detailed report is unnecessary. After alluding to the various candidates in the field, Mr Sutton referred to the Rating Act, and in doing so pointed out that the Act would not affect the House of Representatives Electoral Roll. He would do his best to have the Act so altered that the rates would fall on the occupier, instead of the landlord, that the occupier should have his name placed on the Burgess or Road Board list as the case might be. He had heard it remarked that Mr Ormond had in hand £25,000 belonging to the old Province of Hawke’s Bay. The accounts between the province and the colony had not been fully made up. From enquiries he had made, he thought he would be correct in stating that instead of there being a balance of £25,000, £2,000 or £2,500 would be nearer the mark. Mr Sutton then read a clause from the Financial Arrangements Act of last session, which provides that should there be any balance in favor of the province, the General Government would divide it equally among the several County Councils in the Provincial district. He wished therefore the amount to be so divided was £25,000 as reported, instead of £2,000 or £2,500. After referring to the questions of separation and economy, Mr. Sutton concluded an able and energetic speech amidst loud applause.
Mr. Tuke: Are you in favor of denominational or undenominational education?
Mr Sutton here gave the same reply as at Napier, pledging himself that he would not vote for any measure which would have the effect of injuring any of those establishments in Napier, which he considered were not only a credit to themselves, but the whole community.
Mr Barry: Will you support the government if it attempts to introduce into this Colony the Victorian system of education.
Mr. Sutton: Not if it will injure, as I stated before, present establishments. He would take this opportunity of stating that although on many occasions he had been opposed politically to the present Inspector of Schools, yet he felt bound to state that Mr. Colenso was filling his present office in a most praiseworthy and able manner. – (Cheers.)
Mr. Barry: Do you think that persons owning large unimproved properties should pay only as much taxes as the small holder who improved his properties.
Mr. Sutton: He did not think that, under the present system, some of the large holders paid in proportion to their means. Under the Rating Act, people in making objections had now the right of not only objecting to their own assessment, but could also object to those whom they believed were assessed at two [too] low a rate. This was a privilege they had not had previously.
After several other questions had been put and answered by the candidate, Mr. McHardy proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Sutton for his address, which was seconded by Mr. Tuke (who stated that he was not a supporter of Mr. Sutton). The resolution was carried unanimously.
Mr. Sutton returned thanks.
A vote of thanks to the chairman concluded the proceedings.

MR HENFLICKE’S GHOST.
Mr. Henflicke is one of the best of politicians, but not always an obliging husband. Mrs. Henflicke has a tall and stately rose bush sitting in a tub, which she wanted Mr. Henflicke to remove to the house for safety against the frost. Mr H. had promised on several occasions to attend to it. Friday night he was out to help fire off the cannon in honour of a political victory. It was nearly one o’clock when he approached the house. Mrs. Henflicke desparing [despairing] of his help, had covered the rosebush with a sheet. The singular spectacle confronted Mr. Henflicke just as he was about to open the gate. “Hi there!” he impulsively observed. Then he paused and stared at the apparition with protruding eyes. The sight was so strange, so weird, and so unexpected that the unfortunate man felt all the principals[principles] he had imbibed in the evening slowly dissolve and ooze from his being.
“Hi there!” he gasped a second time, as if to gain some explanation of the creature’s presence, and yet prepared to retreat on the first demonstration. His eyes protruded still farther, his face grew white, and his hair, relieved from the pressure of the hat which fell off at the first shock, stood straight on end. The gate trembled under his grasp.
For a full moment he stood there with his eyes rivetted  upon the apparition. But it did not move. Then he slowly backed away, still keeping his eyes upon the spectre, until it was out of sight, then he turned about and ran with all his might around the corner to a back street, and thus gained the rear of his garden. He clambered hastily but softly over the fence, and flew noiselessly across the grass to the back door. He took hold of the knob with a nervous grasp, but the door was locked. If there was any colour in his face until now it went entirely on this discovery. His limbs trembled with such violence as to threaten to precipitate him from the step. He felt his reason forsake him. At this juncture he thought of the window. With trembling haste he tried the sash – it lifted. Concentrating all his remaining strength he lifted his body up to the sill, balanced thereon for an instant with his mind agonized and his marrow chilled by the awful, sickening reflection that his extremities were exposed to the grip of the spectre, and then toppled over into the room, and across a tub of clothes in soak, with an agonizing shriek of expiring consciousness. The grateful coolness of the tub’s contents brought him back to life almost as soon as his scream had brought his wife to the scene. He jumped up from the tub, fell upon his knees before the startled woman and with an eloquence which brought to her throbbing heart memories of the old time, and felt like sweet music upon her ears, he implored her forgiveness for all his neglect and temper and meanness, and made promises which would have caused a lottery advertisement to feel uneasy. The astonished but happy woman helped him to bed and forgave him everything, but took the precaution to arise in the morning before him, and to remove the sheet from the bush.

[…]

8   THE WEEKLY MERCURY.

Shipping Intelligence.

PORT AHURIRI.
ARRIVALS
January.
19 – Go-Ahead, s.s, from Auckland, via Gisborne. Passengers – Mr. and Mrs Robinson, Mrs Ventner; Messrs Archard, Phillips, Butterworth, Green, McLean, Jones, Gallagher, and 7 others.
20 – Mary Ann Hudson, Ketch, from Mohaka. Passengers – Mr and Mrs Sutherland, Miss Boe, and Mr Gemmell.
20 – Maggie Paterson, schooner, from Shag Point and Dunedin.
20 – Jane Douglas, s.s., from Auckland via Poverty Bay. Passengers – Messrs. May, Robertshaw, and three natives.
21 – Rangitira, s.s., from Poverty Bay. Passengers – Mrs. Martin and three children, Messrs. Bank, Nesbitt, Cattell, Shirley, Crown, Wylie, and the Rev. Mr. Williams.
21 – Sir Donald, s.s., from Blackhead.
21 – Southern Cross, s.s., from Auckland via Poverty Bay. Passengers – Saloon: Mrs and Mrs. Williams, Miss Ludbrook, Messrs. May, Parfitt, Owen, G. Cutts. and two boys. Steerage: Mrs. Shaw and three children, Mr. and Mrs. Hansen, Messrs O’Regan, Baker, McCarthy, Freeman, Thompson, and Bourzuizky.
22 – Fairy, s.s., from Blackhead.
22 – Kiwi, s.s., from Wellington via the Coast.
23 – Waiwera, schooner, from Dunedin via Oamaru.
23 – Manaia, p.s., from Wairoa. Passengers – Mr. and Mrs. Cowper and son, Messrs. Thompson, Maloney, Cato, Balharry, Ruddock, and Herd.
24 – Sir Donald, s.s., from the Coast.

DEPARTURES.
January.
19 – Rangitira, s.s., for Gisborne. Passengers – Mrs Balfour, Mr. and Mrs. Hollis and child, Mr. and Mrs. Wall, Messrs. Caulton, Margoliouth, and Simpson.
19 – Fairy, s.s., for Blackhead.
20 – Lady Don, brigantine, for Wellington.
20 – Manaia, p.s, for Wairoa. Passengers – Messrs. Balharry, Dransfield, McGuire, Gray, Taylor, Fraser, and 25 natives.travelling
20 – Go-Ahead, s.s., for Poverty Bay and Auckland. Passengers – Messrs. Giblin, Gee, and Johnson.
21 – Rangitira, s.s., for Wellington. Passengers – Mr. and Mrs. Hart, Captain and Mrs. Baxter, Mr. and Mrs. Partridge, Mrs. Faulkner and two children, Mrs. Jones, Misses Merritt, and Ada Newman, Messrs. Bee, Stone, Stuart, Campbell, Lottovski, Buchanan, and three in the steerage.
23 – Southern Cross, s.s., for Auckland. Passengers – Mesdames Thornton and Bowden, Misses Thornton, Close, and Bowden, Colonel Whitmore, Messrs. Thornton, Withers, Parfitt, and Rymer.
28 – Kiwi, s.s., for Wellington. Passengers – Mrs. Thomas, Messrs. Conway, Rees, and Martin.
28 – Jane Douglas, s.s., for Auckland via Gisborne. Passengerstravelling – Reverend Mr. Shepherd, Mrs. Shepherd, Mr. and Mrs. Bennett, Mr. and Mrs. Satham, and Miss Arrow.

The s.s. Go-Ahead arrived in the Bay on Friday, at 11 o’clock, from Auckland via Gisborne. She had a full cargo for the latter port, but not much for Napier.
The s.s. Rangitira, having completed the repairs to her stop valve, proceeded to Poverty Bay at 7 o’clock on Friday, and arrived there at 7 o’clock on Saturday.
The ketch Mary Ann Hudson arrived early on Saturday from Mohaka, with a load of dumped wool, which is put on board ttravellinghe Lochnagar.
The s.s. Fairy left on Friday for Blackhead.
The s.s. Southern Cross, Captain Holmes, arrived in the Bay on Sunday evening, and was brought direct to the wharf. She called and remained at Poverty Bay two hours. Captain Holmes reports having had a fine weather passage down from Auckland. In addition to a fair compliment of passengers, she had on board three race horses for Mr. Watt, and some rams for the forthcoming fair.
The schooner Maggie Paterson arrived from Dunedin and Shag Point last Saturday, after a run of eight days. She brought a little cargo from the former port, and 1027 bags oats from Shag Point, to the consignment of Messrs. Routledge, Kennedy and Co.
The s.s. Jane Douglas shipped in Auckland two horses, which travellingshe landed at Portland Island for the Lighthouse contractor.
The steamers fairy and Sir Donald, both brought cargoes of wool from their respective ports.
The s.s. Kiwi landed a quantity of cargo on the coast on Sunday, and arrived here early on Monday.
The s.s. Southern Cross left on Tuesday for Auckland direct, unfortunately without her usual cargo of live stock, the Auckland market not being yet sufficiently good to send stock to. She had, however, a fair complement of passengers.
The s.s. Kiwi took away from Napier a load of dumped wool fotravellingr transhipment to the Jessie Readman in Wellington.
When the s.s. Fairy was in the Porangahau River the other day, the propeller came in contact with a snag, and knocked one of the blades off.
The schooner Waiwera has a cargo of colonial produce from Dunedin, principally flour, oats and soap.
The p.s. Manaia returned from Wairoa on Tuesday, with a few passengers, and a little cargo, principally fruit.
The s.s. Jane Douglas left at 9 p.m. on Tuesday, with general cargo, principally transhipped ex the Kiwi. The Jane will call on the coast about the East Cape to land passengers.
The schooner Maggie Paterson will load wool for Wellington, travellingshipped by Murray, Common and Co.
On discharge of which, the schooner will process to Pelorus Sound, to load timber for Dunedin.
The barque Lochnagar cleared at the Customs on Thursday. She has on board the following cargo: – Kinross & Co.: 1,219 bales wool, valued at £26,234; 5 bales skins, value £76; 11 casks tallow, value £160. Watt Brothers: 562 bales wool, value £10,744 14s 4d. Newton and Co.: 28 bales wool, value £553 11s 8d. Stuart and Co.: 16 bales wool, value £192 5s 3d. Graham and Co., Poverty Bay: 255 bales wool, value £5,114. Total value, £43,074 11s 3d.
The s.s. Sir Donald arrived from the Coast on Wednesday, with a full cargo of wool.travelling
The barque Schiehallion left Lyttelton on Wednesday for Napier. She has some original cargo from London for this port. As there is a large quantity of wool ready for shipment, she will have quick despatch.
Great credit is due to the agents of the various woolships that have loaded here this season. The usual time for the first ship to leave was about the 1^st February, but already there have been two ships loaded and away, and another loaded and ready to go. We hear that there is enough wool on the Spit to load two more vessels.
The schooner Hinemoa is on her way with a cargo of piles for the harbour works.
H.M. ships Virago and Barossa, both of which were in the Australian seas, are being broken up at Plymouth, their days of service being at an end. The Virago was 30 years old.
From Dunedin we learn that a telegram has been received from London that the Albion Shipping Company and Messrs Shaw, Saville, and Co. have amalgamated, forming a company with a capital of £1,000,000.
The Opawa, 1,510 tons, a new iron ship for the New Zealand Shipping Co., was launched on 14^th November, and is named after a river in New Zealand, on whose banks are the residence of the chairman, the vice chairman, and other prominent members of the company, including Mr. Richardson, M.P., Minister of Public Works, whose wife is represented by the figurehead of the ship.travelling – European Mail.

[…]

Government Notifications.

WAIROA COUNTY VALUATION LIST.
TAKE NOTICE, the Valuation List for the Wairoa County for the year 1877, is now open for inspection at the temporary Council Chambers (next to the Clyde Hotel) CIyde, Wairoa. All objections thereto must be left at the Resident Magistrate’s Court, Clyde, Wairoa, on or before the 15th day of February, and addressed to the Assessment Court, and copy of every such objection must be leftravellingt at the Wairoa County Council Chambers not less than seven days before the next sitting of the said Court.
HERBERT J. WILLIAMS.
Clerk Wairoa County Council.
County Council Chambers,
Clyde, Wairoa, 10th January, 1877.

NOTIFICATION.
BY virtue of powers vested in me by Clause 5 of the Highways Act, I hereby call a meeting of the Ratepayers of the Danevirk [Dannevirke] Highways District, to be held at Coltman’s Tamika Hotel, on THURSDAY, the 1^st February, at 12 o’clock, noon.
Dated this 19th day of January, 1877.
J.D. ORMOND.

NOTICE.
Office of Waste Lands Board.
Napier, 8th December, 1876.
TO HUGH McCORMICK, formerly of the 65th Regiment or his representatives
You are hereby required, within six months from this date, to prove to the satisfaction of the Waste Lands Board that you have complied with the conditions required to entitle you to 60 acres of land in the Wakarara District, selected under a Military Settlers Land Order, and if you fail to prove your claim within the specified time, your title to the land will be forfeited and the land be dealt with as the Board may direct.
J.T. TYLEE,
Chief Commissioner.

SMALL FREEHOLD PROPERTIES AT WAIROA,
40 T0 200 ACRES EACH
BY AUCTION.
MONDAY, 26TH FEBRUARY, 1877,
At Napier.
M.R. MILLER
Has received instructions from R.D. Maney, Esq., to sell by public auction, on the above date, at Napier,
THE following SECTIONS in the Wairoa District: -travelling
No. 39 – 50 acres   No. 65 – 60 acres
No. 37 – 40 acres   No. 66 – 60 acres
Also from Wm. Cooper, Esq., to sell, on same date and in same district,
No. 43 – 40 acres   No 63 – 40 acres
No. 59 – 50 acres   Block 6 – 100 acres
No. 62 – 40 acres   Block 7 – 200 acres
Liberal terms.
Plans may be had at the office of the auctioneer
M.R. MILLER.

RAM FAIR.
THURSDAY, 1st FEBRUARY, 1877,
MR. MILLER
Has received instructions from R. Wellwood, Esq., to offer at Hastings on the above date the undernoted
PURE DURHAM BULLS
KING OF HEARTS – Dark Roan, calved April lst, 1876, by “Royal Gwynne” (32390) dam, “Queen of Hearts,“ by “Count of Oxford” (25845) g.d “Queen Mab” by “ Omah Pasha,” etc.
LORD BARNARD – Dark Red, calved April 29^th, 1877, by “Royal Gwynne” (321590) dam, “Lady Barnard,” by “Comet” (25570) g d “Lady Don,” etc.
LORD CAVERHILL – White, calved May 20^th, 1876, by “Royal Gwynne,” dam “Lady,” by “Lord John,” g d “Countess”
Also,
on the Ground adjoining the Society’s yards
500 Two-tooth half-bred Lincoln Ewes
200 Four and Six-tooth Lincoln Ewes
M.R MILLER,
Auctioneer.

TO ARCHITECTS REQUIRING PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE.
DESIGNS prepared from rough sketches.
Plans colored or etched in first style.
J. SPARROW,
Architect and Building Surveyor, Waipukurau.

JOHN McVAY
SADDLER & HARNESSMAKER
Hastings-street.
The Cheapest House in the Trade.

SHEPHERDS WANTED.
WANTED – A HEAD SHEPHERD. To an experienced, steady man a liberal salary will be given. Also, Two active SHEPHERDS for hill country. Apply to
M R. MILLER.

MARRIED COUPLE WANTED.
WANTED – A MARRIED COUPLE without family, wife to cook, man to drive a team of horses. Apply to M.R. MILLER.

H. MONTEITH,
Stock, Land Estate, and General Commission Agent, Waipukurau.
Goods stored and forwarded.
Offices and Stores: Near the Railway Station.

TO LET,
The Shop and Premises lately occupied by Edwin Carter, Wairoa.
The above offers a rare opportunity for a person to combine the wholesale with the retail department. General business. Rent moderate.
Apply to
KINROSS & CO.
Or to E. CARTER. Clyde, Wairoa.

DRUGS, CHEMICALS,
AND Pharmaceutical Preparations
G.C. ELLIS,
(LATE PRATT)
DISPENSING CHEMIST
WHOLESALE DRUGGIST,
HASTINGS STREET, NAPIER
MANUFACTURER OF
PRATT’S PODOPHYLLIN PILLS – An excellent Liver medicine.
PRATT’S TONIC WORM POWDERS –  A safe and effective remedy.
PRATT’S STOMACHIC POWDERS – For Children aperient and alterative.
QUININE AND IRON WINE – An agreeable and invigorating tonic.
HEPATIC ELIXIR AND PILLS – Composed of Dandelion, Camomile, and Hops; the best remedy for torpid or sluggish liver, indigestion, &c.
TASTELESS PEARL-COATED ANTIBILLIOUS [ANTIBILIOUS] PILLS.
DR. LOCOCK’S LOTION – For strengthening the hair and promoting its growth.
AROMATIC TINCTURE OF MYRRH AND BORAX – An excellent wash for the teeth and gums.
PRATT’S LINCTUS – For coughs, colds. &c.

POST OFFICE NOTICE.
MAIL CLOSE
For the United Kingdom, Continent of Europe, &c, viz Suez and Brindisi, by every opportunity to Wellington, where the mails close on the 11^th February.
For Fiji, Sandwich Islands, America, West Indies, United Kingdom, and Continent of Europe, via San Francisco, on Wednesday, the 7^th February, at 2.30p.m.
Money Orders for the United Kingdom will close at 11 a.m. on the 7^th February.
J. GRUBB.
Chief Postmaster.

The Weekly Mercury
AND
HAWKE’S BAY ADVERTISER.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 27, 1877.

MR SUTTON must have every reason to feel satisfied with his reception by the large body of electors who had met at his invitation on Monday. From the applause which greeted his appearance, and the sympathy of the audience, which he carried with him throughout his address, it was not difficult to perceive that the majority of those present were at one with him. Nor was this very much to be wondered at: Mr. Sutton is not an unknows [unknown] nor an untried man, but having raised himself, as Mr. Sheehan observed step by step before the eyes of the people, he has prospered with the growth and prosperity of the town. Intimatelytravelling associated as he has been with those who have worked together to further the progress of this town and district, it would

THE WEEKLY MERCURY.   9

be strange indeed if Mr. Sutton could not touch the feelings of his audience. In addressing the electors Mr. Sutton referred to the Counties Act, and to its operation as affording powers of local government. For this Mr. Sheehan subsequently took him to task, and thought he should have confined himself to matters more directly of interest to the borough. Here, however, we differ from Mr. Sheehan. The constituency which Mr. Sutton aspires to represent consists of more than the town of Napier, and the legislation bearing on the new institutions is of peculiar interest at this moment to a very wide circle of electors. Had Mr Sutton eliminated from his address all references to subjects not immediately affecting this town, he would have afforded the very best proof of his unfitness to represent this constituency. Mr. Sutton then gave his reasons for coming forward as a Ministerial supporter, and the reasons he advanced were precisely those that travellinghave had weight throughout the Colony. The only opposition offered the Government since the Fox-Vogel Ministry took office was on the ground of reckless extravagance. There was no opposition to the public works policy, but to its administration there was just cause for complaint. The administrators having been changed, and men like Messrs. Ormond and Reid – men whose love of economy amounts almost to meanness – having their hands on the purse strings, the ground is cut away from beneath the feet of the Opposition. Moreover, there is at present no great colonial question agitating the country, and it would be simply folly for any one to announce himself as an opponent of the Ministry, when that Ministry has advanced no special policy but that of retrenchment. The only weak points in Mr. Sutton’s address were in his uncalled for attacks on the other candidates. With the exception of Mr. Tiffen, who has expressed no views whatever, there can be little difference between the several candidates so far as their political sentiments are concerned. With regard to their individual actions in the past the electors are very good judges, and to them may safely be left a verdict which, in time, will be duly recorded in the polling booth. On the whole, however, Mr. Sutton’s address was an outspoken and manly expression of opinion, and one for which he fully earned the hearty vote of thanks he received at the close of the meeting.

The existing Burgess Roll for the Borough of Napier contains the names of 708 ratepayers. Under the old Act any one paying rates was a burgess and entitled to vote at a Municipal election. The Act of last year makes a material difference in this respect, and the roll to be compiled by March 31^st next will show a considerable falling off in the number of the burgesses. By the 41^st clause it is provided that the Town Clerk shall, on or before the 3lst March in each year, make out from the Valuation roll a list to be called the “Burgess List,” containing the names of all persons entered in the “valuation roll” as occupiers of their several tenements. To ascertain the meaning of the term “valuation roll” we have to turn to the Rating Act, where we find that every local body is compelled to appoint every year Valuers who have to make out a valuation list of all rateable property within the district. The list so made out has to be transmitted to the local body, and it is to be the valuation roll for the time being. But it is enacted for the guidance of the valuers, that where the owner of any property is also the occupier, his name shall be entered in the valuation list in the column of occupiers as well as that of owners. And then follows the clause that will practically disfranchise two-thirds of the present burgesses of Napier. It is this: – “Where any property is let for any term less than six months the owner shall be deemed to be the occupier, and shall be primarily liable for the rates, and his name shall be entered in the column of occupiers in the valuation list.” It will therefore be seen that under the Municipal Corporations Act, the Burgess List shall contain the names of “occupiers” only, and that by the Rating Act an occupier when not an owner, is defined as one who holds his premises under a lease for a term of not less than six months. Now, as fully two-thirds of the leasehold property within this borough are let on a weekly, monthly, or quarterly terms, it follows that the occupiers of all such tenements will be struck off the Burgess List to be made out in March next. As the law stands at present, we cannot but think a very great injustice is done to occupiers of town properties. We also think that the Rating Act was intended more particularly to apply to country districts, and that it must have been an oversight on the part of the Legislature in not making special provision for borough valuation lists. We trust this matter will be enquired into by our representatives, and the necessary steps taken to secure an amendment of the Act in this respect.

The land question is now engaging the attention of the leading men of the colony, and, as our contemporary the Wangauni [Wanganui] Herald puts it, will be the “burning question” which will succeed abolition. Our contemporary further remarks: – Major Atkinson told the House in 1875 that the land should not be used for purposes of revenue, but for settlement. But the capitalist is waiting with his money, and the Treasury is empty. In the half-year ending June, the deficiency in the land revenue to meet all the charges imposed upon it will be £140,000, or at the rate of nearly £300,000 a year. Here is a prospective deficiency entirely distinct from another deficiency of equal magnitude occurring in the consolidated revenue. Thus we see how pressing is the danger affecting the available lands. If the system of deferred payments be pushed to its legitimate limit, the immediate revenue will be seriously diminished, and a startling deficit disclosed. The Waste Land-Boards, which will have large powers in their hands, will afford no protection, as they, being chiefly composed of nominated members, will be at the dictation of the Treasury. Now the mention is, can the Government pursue the work of settling the country without a primary regard for land revenue? On one condition – that a large additional taxation be imposed. It seems to us that this inevitable. Retrenchment will not alone do much to avert the necessity. The largest item of our expenditure is interest on loans, which has reached a million, and there can be no reduction here. Not even if land were thrown open wholesale in large blocks would the revenue be likely to rise again to what would be sufficient to meet the charges imposed upon it. It has been said that the endowment given to Counties and Road Boards will be withdrawn next year. We do not see how this can possibly be. The whole theory of the County system is that it shall carry on certain public works which in the past have been assisted by colonial loans. The trunk roads of the colony will have to be maintained, and new roads constructed by the County. To diminish their endowments next year would only tend to produce an travellingindifference to every local obligation. The Ministry have a task before them of great magnitude, even if they had not a declining Customs revenue. They are brought face to face with the imperious necessity of increased taxation with the colony not inclined to bear any more burdens. An income tax would be severely felt by the trading classes, and would be most unpopular. The Customs can bear no more, and it will be for a patriotic Ministry to search out for that undertaxed wealth which should contribute its fair proportion to meet the imperious demands which are falling upon the colonial exchequer.

The subject of taxation largely interested the electors at the last general election. It was, indeed almost made the test question put by voters to the several candidates. It was believed that the evil day could not be put off much longer, and it was thought of considerable importance whether our representatives would support the imposition of a land tax, or a property and income tax. The Ministry, however, individually and collectively, assured the people there would be no necessity for increasing the existing taxation, and a reply to the question as put to candidates was for the most patravellingrt evaded. As it happened, the Government tided over the difficulty which presented itself in the form of an insufficiency of revenue, by obtaining power to borrow two millions of money. Without that authorisation had been secured, we imagine additional taxation would have had to have been imposed. But, in spite of the liberty to raise a fresh loan, and in spite of the Ministerial assurance to the contrary, the legislation of last session – the Counties and Rating Acts, and the seizure of the Crown lands by the abolition of provinces – was tantamount to the placing of additional burdens on the people. The prospects of the revenue for the current year coming up to the estimates are very far from bright, and should the gloomy anticipations that are entertained be realised, it is obvious some measures will have to be adopted to make both ends meet. The revenue cannot always be supplemented by loan, nor can the interest due on loans be paid out of the borrowed money. The House will no longer consent to such an unprincipled system of finance. Reductions in the Civil Service expenditure, and cheeseparing in every direction, though manifesting honesty of intention, will not nearly make up the deficiency caused by a considerable falling off in every source of revenue. The seizure of the land fund and the stoppage of subsidies to County Councils and Road Boards would probably offer the readiest means of supplying an exhausted treasury. This course, would have a certain amount of recommendation because it would involve the immediate necessity of those bodies availing themselves of their full taxing powers, thereby relieving the Government of the odium of imposing additional colonial taxation. That the subsidies to the local bodies cannot be continued for any length of time is pretty generally, admitted and it is not improbable that such amendments will he made in the legislation of last year during the next session as will finally put a stop to them. In one form or another taxation, over and above that which the colony has now to bear appears inevitable. It may not come this year or the next, but, possibly, it will have to be imposed before the member for Napier now to be elected resigns his seat by the effluxion of time. It would be as well then for the electors to ascertain the views of candidates on this subject.

[…]

ACCORDING to the return moved for by Mr. Sheehan, last session, it appears that up [to] July 26, 1876, there were twenty-three Road Board districts in the province of Hawke’s Bay. Of these, the estimated population of only fourteen had been arrived at, and six had not taken the trouble to acquire any information concerning the number of dwellings each contained. Seven out of the twenty-three Road Boards could furnish no returns of the number of ratepayers, and only nine had struck a rate. The highest rate that had been levied was by the West Waipawa Board, viz., one shilling on the annual value of town property, and sixpence on property situated in the suburbs. Papakura struck a shilling rate, but collected only sixpence on the annual value. Havelock levied a 1d rate on the total value of property, but no other Board followed the example. The return bears out what we have frequently stated that for the most part our Road Board administration has been a sham, and merely maintained, apparently, to secure the Colonial Government subsidy. By the Counties Act, these Boards are compelled to become realities, and taxing machines of considerable power. Mr. Sutton was perfectly right in saying that the operation of the Counties Act involved the imposition of a land and property tax. Hence the opposition to it being put in force in the county of Hawke’s Bay. But whether the Act is brought into force or not, the highways and bye-lanes must be maintained which, falling on the Road Boards to do, necessitates a land and property tax – a rate levied on the annual or total value of the property within the district.

IN giving his decision upon the Clive and Waipukurau Riding petitions, the Resident Magistrate upheld the action of the Returning Officer at Clive, and dismissed the appeal. The grounds on which he based his decision were briefly, in the main, that the law made no provision for supplying the Returning Officer with Road Board Assessment Rolls; that no county roll was in existence; that the Act contemplated the existence of a roll before the opening of the poll, but the Clive Road Board assessment list being the only roll in the hands of the Returning Officer it was impossible to go outside it; that the whole riding being subdivided into Road Board districts, there could be no outlying districts, so that the Electoral Roll for the House of Representatives could not be made use of; finally, that plural votes were intended to be given by the Act in the same manner as electors would be entitled to vote at Road Board elections. In the first place, with respect to the law making no provision for supplying Returning Officers with Road Board assessment lists, it may be said that the law did not contemplate the existence of Road Boards without chairmen and assessment lists. Further, an assessment list is as necessary an evidence of the existence of a Road Board as is the nomination or election of Wardens; that, in its absence, the Board is virtually defunct, and in the meaning of the Counties Act the district must be treated as an outlying district. Secondly, at the first elections there could be no county roll, nor do we see that one would have been at all required if the Returning Officer had treated all Road Board districts from which he could obtain no assessment lists as outlying districts. The Act, as we take it, never contemplated a Returning Officer disfranchising  four-fifths of a riding. and that “in the performance of his duty.” We agree with His Worship, that, in this case, such a result is unfortunate, but, were it not for his decision, we should have thought it could have been helped. As to the plural voting, the Legislature may or may not have intended it. The fact is, that the statute contains no words authorising the giving of plural votes except upon the footing of a specially prepared roll which as yet has no existence. That roll will, when prepared, place voters in road districts and voters in outlying districts on an equality. Is it to be imagined that the Legislature intended to give three or four votes to a Road Board district ratepayer and one vote to a landowner the other side of the road whose property was a hundredfold more valuable?

WHILE it cannot be denied that the rate of wages ruling for farm and station hands was never higher in Hawke’s Bay, it is generally deplored that so very many men are seeking in vain for employment. In addressing the electors the other night, Mr. Sutton said it was painful to him to see, day after day, strings of able bodied men passing along the road looking as though it was long since they had known what a good square meal was like. Mr. Sutton’s homestead is close to the road, and he has good opportunities for observing the supply of labour by the number of men travelling in search of work. But what Mr. Sutton has seen in the neighbourhood of Clive, has also been observed throughout the province, and yet the cry of employers continues to be “good men cannot be got and wages never were higher.” Notwithstanding that thousands of immigrants have been poured into the country, this is the general complaint in this part of the colony. In the neighbouring province of Wellington wages are low, but nevertheless numbers of men are reported out of employment. Whether Hawke’s Bay employers are more fastidious than those of Wellington in the choice of labourers, and will only give work to men who can command high wages, we do not know. This much, however, is certain, that a very large proportion of men now seeking employment is not of a class adapted to meet the demands of this labor market. It will be some time before these men can take their places alongside colonial hands in

10   THE WEEKLY MERCURY.

all descriptions of work belonging to the station, the farm, or the bush, and until this equality is attained, we fear numbers will find great difficulty in obtaining employment. Under these circumstances it is to be hoped that immigration will be conducted with the greatest circumspection. Indeed, it would be much better to expend money in the even distribution of available labor within the colony, than in adding to the numbers out of work by further importation.

WE presume it must have been on the best authority that Mr. Rhodes, at the Petane meeting, stated it was the intention of Mr. Colenso to offer himself as a candidate at the forthcoming election. We confess that we should have felt a certain amount of disappointment if, at this election, Mr. Colenso had been absent from the hustings. He has for so many years pertinaciously endeavored to regain his former seat in the House of Representatives, that it would create anxiety on his account did he now abandon the ambition of earlier days. Mr. Colenso, however, has no chance of ever representing Napier in the General Assembly. At the last election which he contested, he received forty-nine votes, and we have no reason to think he will poll more on the next occasion. Mr. Colenso, however, possesses the art of addressing himself to the people, and it is not at all unlikely that he will succeed in taking from another just as many votes as would have placed the despoiled at the head of the poll.

IF the speeches of the chiefs last week at the tangi for Sir Donald McLean can be accepted as conveying the true wishes of the natives, then it is clear the Maoris are anxious to see swept away all exceptional legislation on their behalf. One law for the European and another for the Maori can no longer be tolerated. The experimental legislation of the past, that served to confuse the natives and to create distrust, might have led to serious trouble but for the personal influence Sir Donald exercised over the chief men of the tribes. Now that McLean is no more, can we be surprised at the Maori anxiety lest the Government should misunderstand the natives. Each chief, in bemoaning the loss of Sir Donald, asked plaintively enough, “who can take his place?” Fortunately for the colony, and fortunately for the Maoris, the relations subsisting between the two races are not of such a character as to be easily disturbed. The removal by death of Sir Donald will in no way alter the native policy of the colony. His loss which would have been irrepable [irreparable] a few years ago, taking place now, can have no other possible effect than probably to hasten the time when there shall be but one law for both European and Maori.

SOME light is thrown on the estimation in which the port of Napier is held by merchants in London from a freight list, shown us on Monday. The goods are coming by the ship Fernglen, which vessel is bound for Napier and the Bluff. The ship it must be remembered calls at Napier first, and the freight charged is £2 10 payable in the colony, while to the Bluff the freight is £1 15. This is a difference of 45 per cent in favour of the Bluff, although the whole of the risk, if any is run, occurs at Napier. We may mention that freight to Dunedin from London is only 17s 6d, a difference of 185 percent. This shows the value of having a natural harbor, or the importance of making an artificial one.

Commercial.
Mr. W.K. McLean reports a good attendance at his cattle sale at the Shamrock yards on Tuesday. Competition good, but prices were about 10s per head lower on 2, 3, and 4 year old cattle than last sale. Sold, on account of Mr. Walker, 40 head bullocks, from £4 15s to £9 per head; average, £7 5s. On account of Mr. Thos. Bowes, 3 cows, £6 15s, £7, and £5; 6 calves at 38s each; and 2 yearling steers at £3 10s each. On account of Mr. A. Jands, 2 fat cows, £7 and £7 15s. On account of Mr. Anderson, 1 aged dairy cow, £6 5s. On account of Mr J.A. Turner, 1 cow and calf, £6 5s; 3 18 months old steers in very low condition, at £2 10s per head. On account of Mr. Smith, 3 fat steers, £5 15s per head; 3 fat steers, £7 5s per head.
Messrs. Routledge, Kennedy, and Co’s sale of horses, drays, &c, on Tuesday, at the Shamrock yards attracted a good many buyers, and some of the lots were keenly contested. Light draught horses averaged £35 each; pack horses, about £5 each; good trap horses, from £24 to £32; useful hacks, from £10 to £15. The drays and harness did not realise satisfactory prices.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

WHO IS THE BEST MAN?
First Lord: – “What time of day is it, Apemantus?”
Apem: – “Time to be honest.” – Timon of Athens.
SIR, – After the meeting of Monday night, the electors of Napier cannot fail to see the true position of affairs. True it is that only one candidate’s views have been fully expressed. The others have yet to be heard in person. As to Messrs. Rhodes and Tiffen they occupy the position of ministerialists – as far as one can see both in name and in fact. About Mr Buchanan’s creed more anon. As between them and Mr Sutton the electors have to decide which is most likely to pursue a useful, manly, and independent course of action. Mr Tiffen is a dilettante politician who would probably regard the honor of the post far more than the duties attaching to it. So long as he may be permitted to affix the magic initials M.G.A. to his name and to while away the hours of the session in Bellamy’s or at the Club he will be content. Indifferent from his position and years to the praise or blame of his constituents, and quite prepared to retire gracefully as soon as another general election impends he will, so long as he holds his seat, dignify its cushions with his presence and enliven the lobbies with that genial small talk of which he is a master. Mr Rhodes may be fairly expected to aim a little higher. Tired of the pleasure of indolence – fond of oratory of the tea-meeting order, and holding expansive views with regard to the rights of capital – it may reasonably be anticipated that he would not be satisfied to be a “silent member.” Still, if his efforts in debate are unmarked by any other characteristics than those pertaining to his published address, his constituents would probably be better pleased with his silence than with his rhetoric. That Mr Rhodes will ever be willing to study the incidence of taxation, and to relieve the tariff by encumbering his own estate, may well be doubted. Mr. Buchanan is, perhaps, more thoroughly understood by the bulk of the electors than either of the gentlemen first mentioned. His mental characteristics are patent to every observer. Delighting in the din of wordy warfare, and never better pleased than when an opportunity is afforded him of slinging sarcasms at an adversary, he forgets the maxim of the sage of Malmesbury: “Words are wise men’s counters; they do but reckon by them; but they are the money of fools” What real political capacity has Mr. Buchanan ever exhibited? The time is long past since political reputations were made flippant, frothy, or furious philippics. The ability to impale an enemy on an epithet is as valueless now as it is rare, and speeches that evoke in their utterance continuous laughter and cheers upon calm reflection sound only as “the crackling of thorns under a pot.” But, if Mr Buchanan’s powers of speech are no recommendation, has he any other? Is his address sincere? Read by the light of his previous career. Consider it side by side with his strictures on the Ministry a few short months ago. Surely he should have headed his address with a sentence from the School for Scandal – “I leave my character behind me.” Whatever reputation for political consistency, honesty, and straightforwardness Mr Buchanan may have had in the past, it is damaged for the present. Why did he not boldly announce himself as an Oppositionist? Cannot he find a single rent in Mr Ormond’s attire? Is there no spot on Mr Donald Reid’s coat? Then “Othello‘s occupation’s gone.” Had he the interests of Hawke’s Bay at heart? What concern has he ever exhibited for Municipalities, County Councils, Hospitals or Harbors? Has his opinion ever had weight with the community? Let him point to a single instance in which any reform or improvement was effected by his instrumentality and I will hold my peace. Upon Mr Sutton’s qualifications as a member it is unnecessary to enlarge. Those who have known him longest trust him most. Energetic, independent, and able, he is emphatically the fittest representative for the constituency. As to his native transactions let the jurors in Paoro v. Sutton answer the calumnies of the Repudiation Office. Why is Mr Sheehan so anxious to defeat Mr Sutton? Because, if Mr Button is successful, Mr Sheehan’s statements in the House will have their appropriate answers. He will not then be able to make same matters public business when he is the assailant and his own private business when any statements are made by way of defence. That Sir, may be strictly legal. but it is hardly in accordance with an Englishman’s idea of
FAIR PLAY.

THE ELECTION.
SIR – After hearing Mr. Sutton’s speech at the Oddfellow’s Hall on Monday night, I was reminded of the lines of Tennyson, “No man ever whitened his own character by blackening that of another,” but such has been the tenor of Mr. Sutton’s speeches. He has tried to glorify himself and vilify the other candidates, men at least equal to himself, both in education and intellect. Mr. Sutton intends to address the electors of Meanee and Taradale to-night, can you inform me what interest he has in those districts? Mr. Tiffen is the man who ought, and I have no doubt, will receive the support of the majority of the electors, for he has done much good there. His last act of generosity was the gift of 4 acres of land for the cemetery, which was much required. As regards the Counties Act, I have no doubt that Mr. Tiffen, and other members of the Council will see that it will be necessary to bring the whole Act into force, and will do so at the next meeting. The letter signed “Old Settler,” which appeared in the Herald was perfectly true, Mr. Tiffen was the first of the sheep farmers, who cut up his run. Although Mr. Sutton says he made profits by it. If Mr S. had been converted with the same amount of profit on his native transaction, it might have been better for him and Hawke’s Bay – I am, &c.,’
ELECTOR.
January 24, 1877.

THE ELECTION.
SIR, – Will you allow me space to make good an omission on the part of Mr Sutton, when addressing the electors on Monday? It is perfectly true, as “Elector” stated in your issue last night, that Mr Sutton attempted in his attacks on the other candidates to raise himself on their ruins, but, I would ask, did Mr Sutton give himself ‘credit for his actions in the past? Mr Sutton did not say that, through all the years he sat in the Provincial Council, he never secured a single benefit for himself; that he ever gained an advantage, or made a penny-piece by the legislation of the Council, or by the votes on its estimates. It may be said on the other hand, that both Messrs Rhodes and Buchanan served their personal ends by not moving either hand or voice in order to prevent the mopping up of the public estate by a few run-holders. It may be said that Mr Tiffen was a very great gainer by his move in the Provincial Council to get the new Taradale road constructed. The road probably quadrupled the value of his Green Meadows estate, and he can surely well afford to give a sufficient number of acres of it for a cemetery to grant a grave for each of the Taradale settlers – I am, &c.,
A VOTER.
Napier, January 24, 1877

MR. SUTTON’S STATEMENTS.
SIR, – I was present at Mr. Sutton’s meeting at the Oddfellows Hall, and though not a very old settler here, I think he wants putting right in some of the remarks he made on his opponents, especially Mr. Buchanan and Mr. Rhodes. In reference to his remarks regarding those gentlemen buying land from Government, Mr. Rhodes’ estate at Edenham, near Patangata, has been mostly purchased twenty years past, a part of it of no value to any but the purchaser, consisting of scrub hills and gully which was bought at auction at 5s per acre. Mr. Sutton also accuses Mr. Rhodes of not encouraging small settlers: old settlers know very well that both Mr. Rhodes and Mr. Fitzgerald (at that time Superintendent) tried all in their power to lease the Karamu plain for the express purpose of encouraging farmers to settle there, and so make those grand plains the home of hundreds, in the place of at present a few large runholders, and yet who eventually helped to buy those plains but Mr. Sutton himself. At this present time he himself lives on and owns part of them, though I believe his title is disputed. I should like to see Mr. Tiffen retire from the contest, and so help to put in our staunch old settler Mr. Rhodes. – l am, &c.,
ONE OF THE ELECTORS.
January 25, 1877.

[…]

MR. SUTTON‘S MEETING.
I.
One evening this week a candidate bold
The Electors of Napier addressed,
He did’nt speak long, but he spoke very strong,
In the manner his views he expressed.
He mentioned a party is very well known,
And which he compared to pickpockets;
On hearing which the audience so stared
That their eyes near jumped out of their sockets.
II.
And after he’d done, they badgered him much;
They asked him all manner of questions,
And one of the “old uns” proceeded so far
As to make some most nasty suggestions:
Proposed that friend Sutton his land should give up
To a lot of cantankerous Maoris.
To which Sutton replied, no I’ll hold what I can
To provide all my daughters with dowries.
III.
Then up got a youth, with a voice most uncommon,
Its accents were squeaky and shrill,
And asked the candidate if he would vote
For the Templars contemplated bill.
As he stood on the platform making his quest,
With his figure so bony and thin,
With his very pinched face, and his dolorous look,
He seemed much in want of some gin.
IV.
To him Sutton answered in words very bold,
That he didn’t believe in his bill,
And never would vote for any such thing,
If the seat were elected to fill.
After answering questions many and long
‘Bout the Harbor, Bridge, Taxes, and Land,
A Lawyer got up – vote of thanks he proposed
In a voice that was childlike and bland.
V.
Then up stood a man, who seemed very like
As he’d been in a deuce of a scot,
Who said that the motion he’d second himself,
‘Place of speaking a whole lot of rot.
He still was bowing and becking away,
With a view to be very polite,
When a keen looking man with a very red beard
Immediately sprung into sight.
VI.
He jumped on the rostrum, and there took his stand,
While the Chairman was leaving the Chair,
Whom he seized upon smart by the sleeve of his coat
And said, “Just sit down again there,”
And then he commenced an oration most fervid,
All glowing with wit and with fun:
Now indignant he grew, then declaimed not a few;
And just shortly before he had done
VII.
At Sutton he railed ’bout the words he had used
In implying that he was a thief;
Then declared that a thief to catch thieves was required,
And said, I’m detective in Chief
Thus fitting the cap right down on his head,
Which Sutton to him had presented,
Although you’d opine from the words he had used
The character he’d have resented.
MORAL.
Don’t always be witty, in making a joke
You may make a most awkward admission
And all you can say, or all you can do,
Won’t alter the public’s decision.
C.J.P.

THE WEEKLY MERCURY   13

[…]

ELECTION MEETING AT PETANE
On Thursday afternoon a meeting was held at Mr. Villers’ Hotel to hear the political opinions of the candidates for the General Assembly.
Messrs Sutton and Rhodes were present.
Mr. J. Torr, sen., was elected Chairman, and after a few preliminary remarks called on Mr. Rhodes to address the meeting.
Mr. Rhodes said he had expected to meet there today another candidate. That gentleman was not, however present. He thought the district was highly honored in having five men so good and true seeking their suffrages for the forthcoming election. Without egotism he could say that, if elected, his whole time would be at the disposal of the electors. He was out of employment, having made over to his sons the active management of his country property, and was himself living on his town properties. He was, therefore, an idle man in want of employment, and he would be glad to serve this constituency. He did not require place or pay, and would pledge himself to support measures not men. These measures which he considered for the benefit of the colony would have his support, emanate from whom they may. He believed in the present Ministry, but it was impossible to state who would be in office fifteen days after the next meeting of Parliament. There was nothing to show that the present men would continue to hold office.
Mr. Rhodes then referred to the great power wielded in the Assembly by the late member, Sir Donald McLean and the influence he possessed over the natives.
The country would not have to go on without his assistance and guidance, but he would if elected, advocate that the policy of Sir Donald McLean of peace and expediency should continue to be carried out. There were signs which showed that the natives were in a state of irritation owing to a variety of circumstances, and he thought the influence and judgment of Sir. Donald McLean would be greatly missed within the next few years. He did not believe the natives were decreasing in numbers to the extent it was stated, but still the number of Europeans had so increased, and through the policy of Sir Donald McLean, roads having been made through the country, we are not so much at their mercy as in former years.

EDUCATION
He believed in the denominational system of education. He did not believe in abolishing the Bible from our schools. The Government cannot postpone this great question much longer, and he would support an Act based on the one now in force in Hawke’s Bay – a measure which had worked smoothly and had he believed given satisfaction to all classes of the community.

PORT AHURIRI BRIDGE.
This was a knotty question, but one in which the electors before him took a deep interest. He was of opinion that the revenue in the North would, at a future time be larger than that of the South of the Hawke’s Bay district. Most of the land was yet unsold, while that of the south had been parted with. He believed it would be desirable for Petane to join itself to the Wairoa County Council, and together open up the country, so that it would be settled: roads, and the bridge would follow. They might expect to see this accomplished in ten or fifteen years. At the first meeting of the Harbor Board he suggested that the contractors for the Harbor works should give £3,500, the Petane settlers £2,000, and the Province the rest. If his suggestion had been carried out, the bridge would have now been erected. He did not intend to promise the bridge. To do so, and carry out such a promise, would mean to put his hands in his own pockets and pay for it. When the revenue of the north pours in; when population increases, the bridge would be erected, and not till then. The colony cannot afford it. The Government has work enough to do, to make both ends meet, through having to pay away so much of the revenue for interest. It was indeed very possible that for want of money the railway scheme would not be carried out in its entirety. He strongly supported the erection of an artificial harbor, and he was of opinion that the harbor bridge and road would all come together in ten or fifteen years time. He would, however state this, that if elected, and he saw that representatives from other parts of the colony were getting works of a similar nature carried, he would try and induce the Assembly to vote monies for the works he had indicated. If he became their representative, he would not appear in the House as a stranger. He was not an unknown man. He had also relations and connections who possessed a large amount of influence which would be used for the benefit of the electors.

IS IT A CRIME TO POSSESS RICHES?
A portion of the Press in making reference to myself has attempted to make it appear that to possess riches is a crime. If to possess land is a crime he was certainly guilty. But did not every person in the room possess land. Let him who was guiltless of possessing land cast the first stone. The only investment for money in this country was land, and he had yet to learn this rendered him unfit to represent the constituency. When he first came to New Zealand he worked for £20 and his grub, and then saved his first £100. For himself were he called on to vote for the man who had leisure and time at his disposal to look after the interests of those who elected him.

COUNTY FORM OF GOVERNMENT.
He looked upon the Act as a very ingenious machine constructed to squeeze taxes out of the people. He believed, with Municipal, Road Board, and County taxation, put together, we were being taxed at the rate of 12 to 15 per cent. If the County Act was brought into full operation, he could not see where the economy would be, as compared with the old provincial form of government. Clerks engineers, and overseers would still be required, and have to be paid for. The farce of working without pay was played out. The Mayor of Napier who had hitherto given his services gratis, had this year taken £200 and possibly next year he would not object to £300, and so with the County Chairmen, they would all require to be paid. The truth was the Government required all the revenue to meet interest and other charges. They had not the courage to impose direct taxation themselves and therefore brought into operation this new scheme.

SEPARATION.
He was opposed to the Separation of the two islands. Instead of Separation being popular now, everything tended towards Confederation. Sir Hercules Robinson in a recent speech, in speaking of New South Wales and Victoria, pointed this clearly out. We did not know the hour, or the day, when England would be at war with Russia or some other nation. It was therefore necessary that the whole of the colonies should form themselves into a powerful Confederation, in order to be in a position to protect themselves.

CONCLUSION.
Should he succeed in becoming their representative, he would, as he previously stated, give the whole of his time to their service. The session, last year, occupied four months, and now that the Assembly had to perform all the work of legislation, the sessions would occupy six months of the year. He would wish that, when the House sat, meetings such as the present one might be held, and inform him as to their wants and wishes. He would ever be ready to give an account of his stewardship. He hoped that whatever might be result of the election, the best man put of the five would be elected.

Mr. F. Sutton said he was unaware that he would be able to address them, having just arrived from Wairoa, so that he had come unprepared. He would however refer to a few of the remarks made by the previous speaker. In the first place, they had been told that the sessions were likely to last longer in the future. He thought it was generally admitted that, the Assembly last year, having had to pass new institutions, the session was an exceptional long one, and that future sessions would not occupy over three mouths – the time they did formerly.

PORT AHURIRI BRIDGE.
With respect to Mr Rhodes’ remarks about the revenue from the North, he thought that the bridge should be erected before the lands spoken of were sold. The erection of the bridge would double the value of those lands, and indeed all the property on the Petane side of the harbour. The increased value given to the yet unbought land would well repay the Government the money laid out in erecting a bridge. He would advocate its immediate erection. A Committee of the Provincial Council had reported in favor of building a breakwater, and proposed that £250,000 be raised on the lands of the province. He believed that report was adopted by the Council and would have been carried out had not Mr Carruthers, the Government Engineer in Chief, reported that the work was not feasible. Notwithstanding, he was still of opinion that the work could be carried out, and that at the time, the £250,000 could have been obtained quite as easy as the Harbor Board obtained its loan of £75,000.

COUNTY GOVERNMENT.
In reference to another portion of Mr. Rhodes’ remarks with regard to County government, he had read and studied the Act most carefully, and he was under the impression that the highest rate that could be fixed was one shilling in the £. The Council could also put on another 1s for rates, but this permission could only be brought into operation at the request of the ratepayers themselves. The difference between the Provincial and the County form of government was this. Under the Provincial form, the monies could be spent without the public having control, the County form of government places the whole power in the hands of the people, and the monies raised are spent by persons directedly[directly] interested. He believed that the work could be done at half the cost it was formerly. He did not believe the subsidy could be paid for more than the five years fixed by the Act.

YEOMANRY CLASS.
Mr. Rhodes in his published address, had alluded to the settlement of the yeomanry class on the lands. The cry used to be at elections, about the “Poor Man’s Friend;” now we hear about the “Yeomanry Class.” Mr. Rhodes had been a member of the Provincial Council and the Executive, and had also been Deputy- Superintendent, yet what had he done for that class? What had he done during his career of 34 years for the Yeomanry class? Was it when he and Mr. Buchanan made an arrangement to buy up the last of five-shilling land at Patangata?
Mr. Rhodes: The land was unagricultural, mountainous, and not fit for yeomanry.
Mr. Sutton understood it was good land as any in the Province.
Mr. Rhodes: You know both Mr. Fitzgerald and myself tried to get the yeomanry class on the Karamu.
Mr. Sutton: I have looked at the Blue Books, but can find no record. This was the first time he had heard of it.
Mr. Sutton continued – As for the bridge, he had in the Council and Harbor Board advocated its erection. He had worked for it hard in the past and would do so in the future.

MEN NOT MEASURES.
If elected, he would support the Public Works policy of the Government. While the Government of the country was in the hands of such prudent men as Messrs. Atkinson, Read, and Ormond we had nothing to fear. Better men he believed could not be found, and he had the utmost confidence in their administrative abilities. He should therefore be a supporter of the present government. We had heard something about

14   THE WEEKLY MERCURY

“Measures not men.” This was not applicable in all circumstances. He had no faith in the present Opposition. He did not care what measures the Opposition brought in, however liberal or good they were, he should oppose them. He thought it preferrable to give a thorough support to the Ministry. The conduct of the Opposition last session in obstructing the public business was simply disgraceful. If Mr. Buchanan was returned he would be an able assistant to the obstructive party. Mr. Buchanan had an individual antipathy to Mr. Ormond, and to send him to the House would be to divide the representation. He believed it would be better not to fill up the vacant seat than send one who would oppose the Government for the sake of opposition alone. If it should please the electors to return him, although he (Mr. S.) had no very great ability, he would do his best to serve their interests.
In reply to Mr. Stephen, Mr. Sutton said he was in favor of an Education Act, similar to the one now being worked out in Hawke’s Bay.
In reply to other questions, Mr. Sutton said he was in favor of an elective Upper House, formed on a different basis to the Lower House rule. Owing to the pruning knife having been so unsparingly used by the present Ministers, he believed it would not be now necessary to borrow any money this year.
Mr. W. Villers said neither Sir Donald McLean or Mr. Ormond had treated this part of the province with fairness. Both had made promises, and broken them over and over again, and he had little faith in the party they represented doing any good for them. He was surprised to hear Mr. Rhodes say that it would take ten or fifteen years before the bridge was erected.
Mr Rhodes: I was not born near the Blarney Stone, William.
Mr Villers: To take a trap from Napier across the harbor it costs £1; and to take a ton of goods costs 11s. How then are the people here able to compete with their southern neighbors? Mr Rhodes had spoken about the bridge and recommended that the Petane settlers give £2,000 towards its erection. Why should the Petane settlers pay towards a bridge any more than the people on the other side of the Ngaruroro? Mr. Rhodes got a bridge erected there.
Mr. Rhodes: I looked after the interests of my constituents.
Mr. Villers: Well; they were very selfish interests. I hope that our next member will do more for us than we have had done for us in the past. Mr. Villers then proposed a vote of thanks to the two candidates for their attendance and for their addresses. The resolution was seconded by Mr. Haultain and carried.
Both candidates returned thanks.
A vote of thanks to the Chairman concluded the proceedings.

Mr. Sutton’s Meeting of Electors.
Pursuant to invitation, a large gathering of electors took place at the 0ddfellows’ Hall on Monday, and before 8 pm. the room was crowded in every part. Mr. A. Kennedy was voted to the chair, and briefly introduced Mr. F. Sutton, the candidate.
Mr. Sutton then rose, and said he considered it was the duty of every candidate to call the electors together and express his opinion on important matters, and answer any questions submitted. He proposed therefore to give his reasons for supporting the present Ministry, then to discuss the utterances of the other candidates, and finally to touch on some personal matters. He might say that he was asked to come forward at the last election and although he did not do so, he went so far as to write an address, a paragraph of which he would read them: – “Abolition of the Provinces may, I think, be accepted as an accomplished fact, but I think the new order of things will be unacceptable to the electors unless considerable power in the new institutions is vested in the people. Police, harbors, surveys, gaols, should be under the Central Government, which should raise only such revenues as were actually required for its own purposes; the local bodies possessing no legislative powers, but quite independent of the Central Government so far as their revenues were concerned.” Those were his views then and he held the same views still. Looking upon the Abolition of the province as an accomplished fact he thought the Counties Act a valuable measure but there were a few amendments necessary to make it work thoroughly well. In his opinion the question of county revenue was not yet on a satisfactory basis. He thought that Counties should be independent of the General Government and of any pressure that might be brought to bear upon them. The Counties Act gives the fullest powers for proper management of local affairs, and he for one was not afraid of the whole Act being brought into operation. There was no risk in so doing, for people were quite able to manage their own affairs. He thought the whole Act should be brought into force, and that unless this was done we should have Centralism of the very worst class. A large expenditure was not necessary. Road Boards were quite competent to do the greater portion of the work of the County, and should raise all rates for general purposes. For larger works loans would be required or special local rates would have to be raised. As to Road Boards themselves they have worked well, but he thought a uniform system of rating was necessary. That would do away with much of the present difficulty in the way of full local self government. He was happy to say that the opinions he had expressed about the Counties Act were being favorably received by the community. He might say that he had given the subject the most mature consideration, and he had no doubt that the views he had arrived at would he found correct. As an instance of the advantage of local self-government, he might mention the Corporation of Napier, which had done more for Napier since it had existed than had been achieved in 8 or 9 years previously. In the Provincial Council he had started the idea of a corporation; had worked hard for it, and thought he might almost be considered the father of it. He had expected that it would do good, and had not been mistaken. There was one more point about the Counties Act, and that was that districts where there were no road boards would not be able to claim £1 for £1 under the existing financial arrangements, and would, therefore, be without a revenue. This needed alteration. He had said in his address that he intended to
SUPPORT THE PRESENT MINISTRY,
but he was sure that none who knew him would imagine that, if returned he intended a blind support. So long as the Ministry endeavored to carry out measures that were, in his judgment, for the good of the country, he would continue to support them. He thought that now they had a Government numbering among its members four or five men as good as any in the colony – men such as Major Atkinson and Mr. Donald Reid; men well fitted to carry on the work of the country without unnecessary expense. The Public Works policy had done a great deal of good for the country, and now that policy needed to be carried on quietly and gradually, and it would do a great deal more good. Another reason why he supported the present Ministry was because they had acted well in reducing the Civil Service, which had hitherto been far too numerous. The Government deserved credit for the manner in which they were carrying out a policy of retrenchment with an unsparing hand. The present Ministry was the first to adopt such a course. Last session there had been a great deal of talk about it but nothing more. Now, large reductions had been made in the expenditure of the Armed Constabulary, in the matter of native land purchases, and in other directions; and he believed that since Parliament rose a saving to the country of something like seventy or eighty thousand pounds had been effected. It was also a credit to the present Government that they had used every endeavor to open up the country by special settlements; and, in a few years, some of those settlements would be the most important districts in the island. He (Mr Sutton) would now briefly

REFER TO THE OTHER CANDIDATES.
And first to Mr Tiffen: – Mr Tiffen was an old colonist, an old member at the Provincial Council and officer in the Provincial Government. Possibly Mr Tiffen thought that those facts were recommendations; but he (Mr Sutton) believed, and he thought his hearers would bear him out, that Mr Tiffen had never in all those years showed any mind of his own; he would vote as he was ordered, and follow the opinion of others obediently, but that was all. He (Mr Sutton) had seen a letter in one of the papers praising Mr Tiffen for the opportunities he had given by cutting up his estate at Homewood for the purchase of land on deferred payments. Well, no doubt Mr Tiffen had cut up his land and so provided plenty of work for a number of people. But that course had also yielded a very handsome return to Mr Tiffen’s own pocket. For there was a considerable difference between the Government system of land purchase on deferred payments and Mr Tiffen’s system – according to which the unpaid balance bore interest at eight per cent (Laughter) Mr Tiffen had lately been elected Chairman of the County Council. But he (Mr Sutton) was very much afraid that Mr Tiffen had not attempted to master the provisions of the Act as he should have done. He thought that the Chairman of a County Council ought to have done so. But it appeared that the Council had, instead of considering the subject for themselves, delegated a most important matter to a committee of three, who had again referred it to a committee of one, and the consequence was that at the present time, there was no one competent or authorised to supervise the affairs of a very important district, and the whole business of the county was out of gear. No one was authorised to supervise main roads, or in fact to do any thing that needed doing between the Ngaruroro Bridge and Havelock. Why, when a pound-keeper lately resigned his post, it was discovered that nobody was authorised to appoint a pound-keeper (laughter), and that was what some people considered local self-government. (Cheers.)

REFERRING TO MR. RHODES,
Mr. Sutton said that his (Mr. Rhodes’) address was of a totally different description to Mr. Tiffen’s. It had obviously taken a long time to prepare (Laughter) And there nothing in it but “economy” and “yeomanry.” Mr. Rhodes appeared a very paragon of economy. Economy in borrowing, economy in spending – in fact in everything. Mr. Rhodes had referred to his thirty-four years in the colony, to his recent tour round the world, and to other matters. But he (Mr. Sutton) could tell the audience, that, although Mr. Rhodes had held office in the Provincial Government for a number of years, and although he had been Deputy-Superintendent during nearly the whole time of Sir D. McLean’s Superintendency, he had never done anything in those days for the yeomanry class. In those days there was ample opportunity for so doing. There was plenty of land at 5s and 10s an acre. But he (Mr. Sutton) would remind his hearers of one thing that Messrs. Rhodes and Buchanan did do. In March, 1874, they divided between themselves the last of the large tracts of 5s land. The block of 6600 acres then taken up by those gentlemen was the last of that description of land. And now, having first “mopped-up” the balance of available country, Mr Rhodes talked about the settlement of a Yeomanry class – (Laughter) – Further: In the month of June, 1874 – exactly three months after the purchase – Messrs. Rhodes and Buchanan had bought 6600 acres! – (Laughter) – Further: In the month of June, 1874 – exactly three months after the purchse – Messers. Rhodes and Buchanan sat on a Committee of the Provincial Council about the lands of the Province, and that Committee’s report recommended that there should be no more five shilling land. Just three months after Messrs. Rhodes and Buchanan had bought 6600 acres! —(Laughter, and a voice, “In accordance with the law.”) – Just so. Quite in accordance with the law. But it was hardly the thing for one of the gentlemen who did it to come down and talk about a Yeomanry class. He (Mr Sutton) would come next to
MR. BUCHANAN,
who, for some reason best known to himself, had only issued his address that evening. He (Mr Sutton) had read that address, and if it really was Mr Buchanan’s composition, of which there were grave doubts, it was the worst piece of his penmanship that he (Mr Sutton) had ever seen. He had heard Mr Buchanan speak a good deal and he had seen Mr Buchanan’s writing, and he really did not think that the address was Mr Buchanan’s at all. But whoever might have written the address, it appeared that Mr Buchanan had “eaten the leek.” As every one knew, Mr Buchanan had, for years past, been a thorough and consistent opponent of Mr Ormond. Now, if there is anything in the address, it is that Mr Buchanan is a Ministerial supporter. He (Mr S.) had it on very good authority that, very shortly after Sir Donald’s death, Mr Buchanan waited on Mr Ormond and asked him for his support in this election. What had made Mr Buchanan change his views? When he (Mr. B.) opposed Mr. Ormond at the last election he stated publicly that in his opinion Grey and Fitzherbert were the only two honest statesmen in New Zealand, and that the administration of Mr Ormond and Sir D. McLean had resulted in nothing but disaster. Why the change of opinions? The gentleman under whose wing Mr. Buchanan had come forward was no supporter of the ministry. No one could call Mr. Sheehan a supporter of Mr. Ormond. (Laughter and Applause) Last year Mr. Buchanan could speak in favor of trying, in Courts of Law, all disputes between Natives and Europeans. Now he can say nothing clearly about native matters. With reference to the conduct of the Opposition (of which Mr. Sheehan was one of the leaders), last session he (Mr. S.) would say that it was uncalled for, it wasted the time at the House, and reflected discredit on the country. To such an opposition Mr. Buchanan could be very useful. If he cannot speak for sixteen hours (as one of the Opposition did), it might be remembered that he once spoke in the Provincial Chamber from three o’clock in the afternoon till four o’clock the next morning. (Much laughter. A Voice: Did not you not go with him then?) That was so. But in about nineteen or twenty divisions that took place that night Mr. Buchanan stood alone, He (Mr. S.) and the late Mr. Wood fought as long as they thought they were justified in fighting and then let the thing take its course. He (Mr. S.) was surprised at the tone of Mr. Buchanan’s address. All that ever he had seen or heard of Mr Buchanan before was plain and direct. It could be understood. But let anybody read the address and say what it means. There is nothing in it by which he (Mr Buchanan) could be brought to book. It means anything or nothing. As to himself (Mr Sutton) the only real objection which he had urged against himself was his concern in
NATIVE LAND TRANSACTIONS IN HAWKE’S BAY.
It would not be proper for him on such a subject to go to any great length, but he would refer to it in plain and unmistakeable terms. For three years past he had been defending himself against an  association as vile as any of pickpockets (Applause) It had no honor about it. For some reason or other he had been picked out for attack although others were concerned, and he had had to bear the brunt. As to the letters of “Old Identity”, “New Blood,” and “‘Watch-man,” he challenged the writers to give their names and to meet him in print or on the platform. Gross charges had been brought against him, and he had had to bear, at his own expense, heavy costs; but he was proud to say he had sustained no loss except in pocket. (Hear, hear, and cheers.) He was prepared to defend himself and all his affairs. As every one there knew, a Commission had already investigated a great number of the charges made by the natives, and their report was known to everyone. In one of his (Mr Sutton’s) most important matters Judge Richmond, after a very long and careful examination, said he saw nothing wrong in the transaction. It had been said – not to put too fine a point on it – that he (Mr Sutton) was not quite respectable enough for the House of Representatives. (Laughter and applause.) The some thing was once said of one who afterwards became Sir Julius Vogel, (applause) and it has been said of many others. Those who had known him for years (and many there had) would know he had always spoken out his mind, and had never been led by the nose by anybody, and he would be the same in the House if they did him the honor to return him. There were some things that had happened there that demanded attention and amendment. Mr Sheehan had spoken of him (Mr Sutton) in the House in the most unwarrantable manner, and he (Mr Sutton) thought it was most improper for any member of the House to have spoken in such a manner, and name, of private individuals. People who tried to teach him (Mr Sutton) manners should first try and learn some themselves. If returned he would endeavour to initiate in Hawke’s Bay the practise of members calling their constituencies together after every session. He would do it himself; for he considered it a member’s duty to submit his actions to his supporters for their approval. He did not intend to address them any further, but would be happy to answer any questions.
Mr Pulford asked if Mr Sutton would support the project of a breakwater for Napier?
Mr Sutton said he had always supported the scheme of an artificial harbor, including a breakwater. Personally he thought that that scheme might have been carried out; but the Government engineers thought otherwise. As a member of the Harbor Board, he had voted for the present works, as being likely to improve the harbor and he should always be glad, in every way to further the interests of the harbor, which he considered of vital importance to Napier.
A Voice: Will you support a land tax?
Mr Sutton said that he hoped the Government would not find it necessary to impose any further land tax. The Counties Act had got the Government out of a difficulty in that respect, for that

THE WEEKLY MERCURY.   15

Act contemplated the taxation of land to meet local necessities, which the General Government was no longer required to provide for.  Still, he was of opinion that, in this country, hitherto, wealth had not paid as much taxes proportionately as industry, and wealthy land owners ought to contribute a great deal more to the revenue. He knew of some large estates that paid only one-third of the amount paid by several business establishments in Napier.
Mr Swan asked if Mr. Sutton would support a land tax, or vice versa? And would he resign if called upon to do so by a majority of electors? Mr. Sutton replied that he would – if the county system did not work more freely – support a land tax direct. He believed a land tax was far easier to collect than an income tax. To the second question Mr. Sutton replied in the affirmative. – (Cheers.)
Mr. Routledge: Will you find out why the Spit bridge has not been erected, and endeavour to procure its erection?
Mr Sutton said he had always held that the bridge should have been the first thing done in the harbor works, and he hoped to see it done in far less time than Mr Rhodes allowed for it – viz., 10 or 15 years. He (Mr. S) would use his endeavors to obtain the bridge.
Mr R.C. Harding said, “I wish to ask a question. (Tremendous uproar.) If elected, will you support a Bill to remove the granting of licenses from the hands of the magistrates to those of the people?”
A voice: “If you do, you won’t get in!” (Great cheering.)
Mr. Sutton said he did not believe in a Permissive Bill. He thought the interests of the public were better protected under the present system than they would be by a Permissive Bill. As things are now, the Governor appoints in every district several gentlemen, specially chosen for their fitness, to control the traffic, and grant licenses. The system is a good one, and things are better administered than they used to be.
Mr. Swan: Will Mr. Sutton give us his views on the Education Act?
Mr. Sutton replied that the question of education was a vexed one, and required mature consideration, and large experience to settle. His experience was limited to Hawke’s Bay. He thought the system of this province was a good one, and that Hawke’s Bay ought to be proud of its establishments. There were denominational establishments here which had done a large amount of good; and whatever might be said about secular education, he would, if returned, do his best to prevent such establishments from being interfered with.
Mr. John Begg wanted to know if Mr. Sutton would be in favour of giving back to the natives any lands which they had lost by mistakes in deeds, and so prevent any disturbance with natives? (Hisses and uproar.)
Mr. Sutton said he hardly understood the question.
Mr. Begg said he would put it again. (Renewed disturbance.) His idea was to hand back land acquired from the natives in that way at prime cost. Would Mr. Sutton do that? or did he want people to go out and fight again as they had done at Omaranui [Omarunui]?
Mr. Sutton said he had been very pleased with Wi Tako’s speech, which he had read in “Hansard” some time ago. That chief desired nothing but equal rights in every respect with Europeans, and that was what he (Mr. Sutton) wanted. He presumed that his rights in the Omaranui Block were the same as anybody else’s would be. He claimed no other, and had no doubt but that he would obtain what he expected, viz., even-handed justice. (Cheers.)
Mr. Bear asked what was Mr. Sutton’s opinion about the honorarium to members?
Mr. Sutton said that members having gone so far as to double-their honorarium and give themselves free railway passes he only wondered that they had not gone further, and voted for the payment of their hotel bills, £150 a year was quite enough, and if any reduction were proposed he would vote for it.
Mr W. Smith: Would you bring the question up again?
Mr Sutton did not see the use of his doing that. In the first place his motion would be sure to be negatived by the men who raised the honorarium last session. And in the next place it would be rather an assumption on the part of a young member to reintroduce the subject.
A Voice: Will you support the present system of flooding the country with immigration when there is now a great redundancy of labor?
Mr. Sutton said he was sorry to see the number of men that were continually passing his house in search of work. Still he must say that employers often experienced great difficulty in obtaining suitable men. People had been brought into the country who were quite unsuited to its requirements, and he should certainly be in favor of restricting immigration so as to introduce men fitted for the country.
No further questions being proposed Mr. Cornford moved that a vote of thanks be given to Mr. Sutton for his address.
Mr. Buchanan said if there were nobody else to second that proposal he would. As the meeting had got to the stage of a vote of thanks it would be grossly indecent on his part if he were to attempt to reply there and then to Mr. Sutton’s attack upon himself. But he (Mr. B.) would have a meeting of his own before long.

MR. SHEEHAN REPLIES TO MR. SUTTON.
Mr Sheehan said it was his intention to have remained merely a listener to the speech of the candidate, but as Mr Sutton had so directly and violently assailed him, he would avail himself of his privilege as an elector, and, with the permission of the meeting, would reply to what Mr Sutton had said. He quite admitted Mr Sutton’s right to criticise his (Mr Sheehan’s) conduct as a public man but he had no right whatever to refer to his professional practice and private affairs. Although a young man he had been at many public meetings and had taken part in them, but the present was the first occasion in his experience of a candidate trying to build up his claims to represent a constituency by a series of unfair culumnies [calumnies] of his opponents. Mr Sutton, instead of making his own claims good, had gone out of his way to dispute the claims of others. It was a case of “Codlin’s the man not Short.” He would first say, however, that the matter upon which many people relied most against Mr Sutton, viz. – that he had sprung from the working-classes, was in his (Mr Sheehan’s) mind the thing which Mr Sutton had most reason to be proud. Sprung from the working-class himself he could never recognise that as a disqualification for public life, and, if Mr. Sutton had only that charge to answer, he need not fear. But then came other things to be talked about, and he would like to show to the meeting the real value of some of the most important things which Mr. Sutton had said. Mr. Sutton had spoken about Mr. Tiffen having cut up his land for settlement, and in his address also he spoke of the necessity of opening up land for settlement. Where was Mr. Sutton when the lands of Hawke’s Bay – the finest in the colony were being mapped up at five shillings an acre? (Cheers.) Where was he only a year or two ago when Mr. Charles Nairn was allowed to buy at that price 48,000 acres of magnificent quality – 20,000 of which he sold a few days after at £2 an acre? Where was Mr. Sutton then? (Tremendous Cheering.) What did he do in his place in the Council? Nothing. He dare not do anything. He and many others in the Council only carried their opposition half-way – for sitting in one corner of the Council Chamber there was a thin, pale figure, before whose form Mr Sutton and his friends trembled. What did Mr Sutton do about acquiring the “plains” for settlement by the people? Did he endeavor to prevent the acquisition of the Heretaunga Block by that inner circle of his thirty or forty friends, who were designated the “apostles?” – (Immense applause.) That land was bought by four or five people at a pound an acre. Mr Sutton helped to purchase it. At the same time adjoining land was selling at £10 an acre, and leasing at 10s an acre. That land which, exclusive of the township of Hastings, supported about eighty people, would, if subdivided, carry 3000. The whole of this magnificent country about Napier had been bagged by Mr Sutton and his thirty or forty injured and suffering friends. – (Enthusiastic cheers.) Yes, so it was. A few people like Mr Sutton had mopped up up the country, and would in time acquire enormous fortunes, while for the great mass of the population of the Prouince [Province] there was no better future prospect than that of becoming hewers of wood and drawers of water. What now constituted the landed estate of the Province? A few miserable hill-tops. (Applause.) Mr. Sutton speaking of retrenching, said that last year the Parliament talked a great deal about it, but did nothing. Who was the cause of that? The Opposition did their best to reduce expenditure, but it was owing to men like Mr. Sutton – blind supporters of the Government – that the Opposition failed. Men of Mr. Sutton’s stamp would talk glibly about retrenchment, but, unless permitted by the Government, would always vote against it. Their fear is lest the Ministry to whom they look for favors should go out of office, and so, though convinced in their own hearts that reduction was necessary, at the bidding of Government, they voted for increased expenditure. (Cheers.) He, (Mr Sheehan) had been a political opponent of Sir Donald McLean, but not a personal foe. He questioned very much whether Mr Sutton felt a tithe of the regret which be (Mr Sheehan) did for Sir Donald’s death. While quite willing to recognise Sir Donald McLean’s great abilities, he felt confident that a man fit to succeed him would be found. One time people thought Sir Julius Vogel only could save the country. Sir Julius Vogel was gone – and if Mr Sutton was gone – men could be found to take their places. (Laughter.) A voice: Even if you were gone to. Yes even if he (the speaker) were gone there would be another to take his place. (Great laughter.) And no doubt his going would be a source of great joy and comfort to Mr Sutton and his thirty and forty friends. Mr. Sheehan then criticised the manner in which Mr. Sutton had answered the questions put. What value could be placed upon the promise of a man whose creed was the blind support of the Ministry? He might make an appearance of trying to carry out his promises, but at the bidding of Mr Ormond at any time his tongue would be still. (Hear, hear.) The people should remember that they had to thank Mr Sutton and his thirty or forty friends that they could not get land now within seventy miles of Napier, unless by paying enormous prices for it. (Cheers.) (Mr Sutton: That land was sold ten years ago.) No. It was the people who owned the land that were sold. (Great laughter.) A great deal had been said from time to time about the “Repudiation Party,” and about their organising and subscribing funds to persecute Mr Sutton and his saintly brethren. There was another who combined for the same purpose – to protect the titles which it was alleged had been unfairly acquired. (Mr Sutton: No.) It was so, and could easily be seen. Just as in touching a chord on a piano the vibration runs over the whole instrument – so if the law chanced to put its finger on Mr Sutton, his thirty or forty friends at once flew to his assistance. (Cheers.) Mr Sutton had referred to the movement with which be (Mr Sheehan) was connected, and characterised them all as pickpockets (Hear, hear.)
Mr. Sutton: Well, I repeat that they are men more in the nature of pick-pockets than anything else. (Uproar and confusion.
Mr. Sheehan: Well, if they are so, it is because it is necessary to “set a thief to catch a thief.” (Cheers and Laughter.) But why men so designated by Mr. Sutton and his friends? As to Omarunui, he did not think there were five people in Napier who did not admit that the Maoris were right and Mr. Sutton wrong. The Government admitted it, and the matter was practically now in their hands. (Cheers.)
The Chairman hoped that the discussion would not assume too personal a character.
Mr. Sheehan said the Chairman appeared to think that he was occupying the meeting too long and becoming too personal – so he would bring his remarks to a close. (Cries – go on; go on.) He had only spoken because he was attacked, and perhaps Mr. Sutton would hear him alone on other occasions. (Laughter.) What he did as a public man was open to fair criticism, but his private business in Hawke’s Bay should not be criticised, especially by such a man as Mr Sutton. His private conduct was subject to review by the Supreme Court, and he could, if guilty of improper conduct, be struck off the rolls. – (Hear, hear.) – He thanked the meeting for their patient hearing. He could assure them that though the fight he had undertaken on behalf of the natives was very obnoxious to Mr Sutton and his thirty or forty friends, yet it was not hostile to the true interests of the people of Napier. – (Cheers.) For that reason, in the House, he had always assisted and voted for Napier interests, and one thing he would specially claim to have done – namely, securing the second seat for Napier, for which Mr. Sutton was now standing. – (Cheers.) – Let them watch the course of events, and see whether Mr Sutton would do as much for them when he became a member of the House. (Mr Sheehan resumed his seat amidst loud applause.)
The Chairman then put the resolution of thanks, which was carried unanimously.
A vote of thanks to the Chairman concluded the proceedings.

[…]

16   THE WEEKLY MERCURY

HAWKE’S BAY JOCKEY CLUB RACES.
THURSDAY AND FRIDAY
22^nd and 23^rd February, 1877.
PRESIDENT
James Watt.
STEWARDS:
J.H. Coleman   Sydney Johnston   Robert Farmer   J.N. Williams   G.E.G. Richardson.
JUDGE:
Robert Stuart.
STARTER:
Gavin Peacock.
CLERK OF THE SCALES:
Robert Brathwaite.
HON. TREASURER:
Ulick Burke.

FIRST DAY.
MAIDEN PLATE of 75 sovs.; for all horses that have never won an advertised race exceeding 25 sovs. in value; 1½ miles; weight for age; entrance, £4
RAILWAY STAKES of 25 sovs.; ¾ mile; weight for age; entrance, £2.
NAPIER HANDICAP of 150 sovs., with a sweepstake of 5 sovs. each added; second horse to receive 20 sovs. from the stakes; distance, 1¼ miles; entrance, 2 sovs., acceptance 3 sovs. to the funds. Nominations with 2 sovs. to be made to the Secretary, by 8 pm. on Saturday, 23rd December. Weights to be declared by Wednesday, 10th January. Acceptance with 3 sovs., to lodged with the Secretary by 8 p.m. on Saturday, 3rd February. Sweepstakes to be paid on day of General Entry, the 14th of February. The winner of any handicap of the value of 200 sovs. after the declaration of the weights to carry 7 lbs extra; of the value of 100 sovs.,
5lbs extra ; penalties not accumulative.
SELLING RACE of 40 sovs.; entrance, £2; 1¼ miles; weight for age; winner to be sold for £50; if entered to be sold for £40, allowed 7 lb; if for £30, allowed 14 lb ; if for £20, allowed 21 lbs; if for £10, allowed 28 lb- ; any surplus to go to the fund.
HACK RACE of 10 sovs; distance 1 mile; catch weights;
entrance, £1.

SECOND DAY.
HANDICAP HURDLE RACE of 40 sovs.
with a sweep of 3 sovs. for starters, distance 2 miles; over seven flight of hurdles; entrance 2 sovs. The handicap will appear shortly after general entrance.
HAWKE’S BAY STAKES – 75 sovs.; distance 2 miles; weight for age. Winners of weight for age races since August, 1876, in one event of 100 sovs., to carry 7 lbs extra; of 200 sovs., 10 lbs; 300 sovs. 14 lbs extra. Penalties not accumulative; Maidens at starting allowed for three-year-olds, 5 lbs; 4 years, 10 lbs; 5 years and upwards, 14 lbs. Entrance, 4 sovs.
HAWKE’S BAY PRODUCE STAKES – 75sovs., for all horses bred in the Province that have never won an advertised race at time of entry; winner of the Maiden Plate to carry 7 lb penalty, distance, 1 mile ; entrance £4 ; weight for age.
TRADESMAN’S HANDICAP – 75 sovs., with a sweep of 5 sovs. each; distance, 1½ miles ; entrance 2 sovs., and acceptance 2 sovs., to the funds. Weights to appear by 8 pm. on the first day of the races. Acceptances with sweep to be paid before the start for the Hurdle Race.
CONSOLATION HANDICAP – 30 sovs., for all beaten horses at the meeting; 1 mile; entrance £2.

No entry will be received for any of the above races, except upon the conditions that all claims, disputes, and objections arising shall be decided by the Stewards, or whom they appoint, and their decision upon all points shall be final.
General entries and nominations will be received by the Secretary at the Criterion Hotel, Napier, up to 8 pm. on WEDNESDAY 14th February, 1877.
The Rules and Weights of the New Zealand Jockey Club will be adhered to if in force at the time of the meeting, otherwise the races will be run under the Hawke’s Bay Jockey Club rules.
Five per cent. will be deducted from the gross amount of all stakes.
Horses walking over will receive 50 per cent. of the stakes.
M.R. MILLER,
Hon. Sec.

SHEEP.
WANTED TO PURCHASE,
6000 2,4, and 6 tooth Merino Ewes, in lots of not less than 1500
3000 Fresh 8 tooth Merino Ewes
M.R. MILLER.

TO THE ELECTORS OF NAPIER.
GENTLEMEN, – The issue of the Writ for the vacant seat for Napier demands a public announcement of what is already privately well known – that I am a candidate for your suffrages.
The main articles of my political belief are briefly as follows:
1. Upon no conditions would my assistance be given to the severance of New Zealand into two colonies. The geographical division at Cook’s Strait serves rather as a bond of union, and as a markedly cheap highway, binding commercially the Northern Districts of the Middle Island to the North Island, than as a plea for dismemberment.
2. The present Government may with truth be viewed as a many-sided one. In its number are comprised members of several distinct sections of the Assembly. A majority of them in the era prior to Abolition, were identified with the views and the party (when party really existed) that had my sympathy and humble support. Moreover their policy and intended action are undeveloped. Support of them, therefore, at this stage of their existence involves no risk, entails no responsibility, and entitles to no praise. Abolition has been secured beyond recall, and both supporters and opponents of that measure are honorably free to form fresh combinations as the horizon clears. Meantime the Ministry, as it stands, is master of the situation, and could reckon on my aid if returned.
3. Immigration will need restriction, and possibly even entire suspension for a season. After the excitement of the past few years, the Colony needs rest and quiet until time and industry open fresh sources of employment, or add to the volume of the old; till those who have recently come amongst us have acquired settled homes; and till the fresh centres of population have been firmly established. It probably then will happen, that demand will be made for a further influx of population, even by many who are now silently suffering from apparent redundancy.
4. It may reasonably be predicted that next session there will be legislation in regard to Native lands. The question possesses an intense interest in the Northern Island, and is of much importance to the Colony generally. In many districts the natives are far enough advanced in intelligence no longer to require leading strings or governmental guidance. They themselves desire release from such bonds. With the advance of settlement, the white population presses at numerous points upon what was not very remotely purely native districts. They concur in the call for relief. Ministers may therefore be expected to take up the subject. While the natives may be fairly expected to share the burdens imposed by the law of the Colony, none will be found seeking to debar them from the benefits and privileges it confers. Fulfilment of the first condition involves admission of the second.
5. The efforts already made to foster settlement, present a fairer retrospect than any other part of the Works and Immigration policy. No contention can arise as to the necessity for unabated vigor in that path. There are abundant lands yet vacant, if willing hands and arms can be had to undertake the toil and early discomfort of founding new homes.
6. Retrenchment and the kindred question of taxation, can only be effectually dealt with by the Government. It will need for either purpose a strong willed, strongly supported Government. Good administration in my eyes is preferable to petty slaving. We have it on record how frequently the experience has been that the loudest professors of economy in public, are the most importunate and  insatiable in demanding increated expenditure for individual ends up the back stairs.
7. In conclusion, gentlemen, permission is asked to remind you that the vacancy now existing, is no ordinary one. The successor in the General Assembly of the distinguished men, who so long and ably filled the seat for Napier, and gave it a lustre of his own, will be looked at with curiosity, and subjected to keen criticism – not the usual criticism merely of the forum, but the sharper criticism of the ante-rooms. General intelligence and the skill to use it; independence of thought and spirit; freedom from suspicion even of desire to intrude local squabbles, or further private personal ends, are qualifications all needed, else your representative’s usefulness would be marred; his status would be assigned among the waiters on providence; and the high repute of the electorate lowered.
8. As regards all matters touching the local welfare of Hawke’s Bay, I need only point out to you that my individual interests offer the surest guarantee of harmonious cooperation with the other members, in watching and furthering them.
Your faithful Servant,
JNO. BUCHANAN.

RURAL SECTIONS, WOODVILLE.
ON DEFERRED PAYMENTS.
THE undersigned suitable sections FOR SALE on Liberal Terms: –
A. R.   A.
No. 129. – 40 3   No. 132. – 111
No. 130. – 40 0   No. 133. – 104
No. 131. – 46 2   No. 133. – 104
135. – 133 acres.
M.R. MILLER.

Watches! Watches! Watches !
JOHN ROBERTSON,
WATCHMAKER AND JEWELLER, Napier,
DRAWS special attention to his Magnificent Stock of WATCHES, just received direct from English and American Manufacturers, and made Specially to Order, which, for Excellence and Cheapness, are unequalled in the colony.
All Watches sold at this establishment are thoroughly regulated and put in working condition before leaving the premises, and Guaranteed.

[Advertisement]
GRATEFUL – COMFORTING.
EPPS’S COCOA.
BREAKFAST.
“By a through knowledge of the natural laws which govern the operations of digestion and nutrition, and by a careful application of the fine properties of well-selected cocoa, Mr. Epps has provided our breakfast tables with a delicately flavoured beverage which may save us many heavy doctors’ bills. It is by the judicious use of such articles of diet that a constitution may be gradually built up until strong enough to resist every tendency to disease. Hundreds of subtle maladies are floating around us ready to attack wherever there is a weak point. We may escape many a fatal shaft by keeping ourselves well fortified with pure blood and a properly nourished frame.” – See in the Civil Service Gazette.
Made simply with boiling water or milk.
Sold only in pockets (tins for abroad), labelled: –
JAMES EPPS & Co.,
HOMEOPATHIC CHEMISTS,
48, THREADNEEDLE STREET, and 170, PICCADILLY,
WORKS, EUSTON ROAD AND CAMDEN TOWN
LONDON.

[Advertisement]
BEWARE OF VILE AMERICAN COUNTERFEITS.
OF
HOLLOWAY’S PILLS AND OINTMENT. I most respectfully take leave to call the attention of the inhabitants of Australasia to the fact that Messrs. Henry Curran and Co., Wholesale Druggists, of New York, have agencies in various parts, and that their Travellers are going all over the country vending spurious Imitations of my Pills and Ointment, which they make in New York, and which bear in some instances their trade mark thus
Whilst on other labels of this trash it is omitted , the better to deceive you, but the words ‘New York’ are retained. Much of this fictitious stuff is sold in the Auction Rooms of Sydney and elsewhere, and readily finds its way into the back settlements. These are vile frauds, as I do not allow my medicines even to be sold in any part of the United States; they are only made by me at 533, Oxford Street, London.
The same people are circulating a report that my business is about to be formed into a Company which is UTTERLY FALSE.
I most earnestly appeal to that sense of British justice which I feel sure I may venture upon asking my kind countrymen and countrywomen in their distant homes, to assist me, as far as may lay in their power, in denouncing this shameful American Fraud, by cautioning their friends lest they he duped into buying villainous compounds styled “Holloways Pills and Ointment” with any New York label thereon.
Each Pot and Box of the Genuine Medicines bears the British Government Stamp, with the words “HOLLOWAY’S PILLS AND OINTMENT, LONDON.” engraved thereon. On the labels is the address, 533 Oxford street, London, where alone they are manufactured.
Signed,
THOMAS HOLLOWAY,
LONDON, Feb. 15, 1796

[Advertisement]
SAMSON FENCING WIRE
This is an entirely new and superior description, and shows an immense saving as compared with old sorts, a mile of five wires weighing only 10 cwt., versus 17 cwt. No. 8 ordinary Wire. Purchasers particularly note that the SAMSON WIRE is slightly oval in shape, to distinguish it. Each coil has a brass padlock tally and a tin tally stamped “Patent Oval Samson Wire.”
Manufactured by the Whitecross Wire Co., Warrington, and may be procured through any Merchant, Ironmonger, or Storekeeper.
M B R

[Advertisement]
OXYGEN IS LIFE.
DR. BRIGHT’S PHOSPHODYNE
Multitudes of people are hopelessly suffering from Debility, Nervous and Liver Complaints, Depression of Spirits, Hypochondria,Timidity, Indigestion, Failure of Hearing, Sight, and Memory, Lassitude, Want of Power, &c., whose cases admit of a permanent cure by the new remedy PHOSPHODYNE (Oxonic Oxygen), which at once allays all irritation and excitement, imparts new energy and life to the enfeebled constitution, and rapidly cures every stage of these hitherto incurable and distressing maladies. Sold by all Chemists and Druggists throughout the Globe.
CAUTION – The large and increasing demand for Dr Bright’s Phosphodene has led to several imitations under somewhat similar names; purchasers of this medicine should therefore be careful to observe that each case bears the Government Stamp, with the words Dr. Bright’s Phosphodyne engraved thereon, and that the same words are also blown in the bottle.

[Advertisement]
CURE FOR   ALL NEVER DESPAIR
THE GREATEST WONDER OF MODERN TIMES!
HOLLOWAY’S PILLS
Persons suffering from weak or debilitated constitutions will discover that by the use of this wonderful medicine there is “Health for all.” The blood is the fountain of life, and its purity can be maintained by the use of these pills.
SIR SAMUEL BAKER,
in his work entitled “The Nile Tributaries in Abbyssinia,” says, “I ordered the dragoman Mahomet to inform the Fakey that I was a Doctor, and that I had the best medicines at the service of the sick, with advice gratis. In a short time I had many applicants, to whom I served out a quantity of Holloway’s Pills. These are most useful to an explorer, as possessing unmistakable purgative properties they create an undeniable effect upon the patient, which satisfies him of their value.”
SIMPLE, SAFE, AND CERTAIN!
HOLLOWAY’S OINTMENT
Is a certain remedy for bad legs, bad breasts, and ulcerations of all kinds. It acts miraculously in healing ulcerations, curing skin diseases, and in arresting and subduing all inflammations.
MR. J.T. COOPER,
in his account of his extraordinary travels in in China, published in 1871, says – “I had with me a quantity of Holloway’s Ointment.  I gave some to the people, and nothing could exceed their gratitude; and, in consequence, milk, fowls, butter, and horse feed poured in upon us until at last a teaspoonful of Ointment was worth a fowl and any quantity of peas, and the demand became so great that I was obliged to lock up the small remaining stock.”
Sold by all Chemists and Medicine Vendors throughout the World.
On the Label in the address, 533, Oxford-street, London, where alone they are manufactured.
BEWARE OF ALL COMPOUNDS STYLED
HOLLOWAY’S PILLS AND OINTMENT
With a “New York” Label.

[Advertisement]
GORDON AND GOTCH
I21 HOLDBORN HILL, LONDON;
and at
SYDNEY AND MELBOURNE.
ADVERTISEMENTS inserted in English, Continental, and American Newspapers, Newspapers, Periodicals, Magazines, Books, and Stationery supplied with accuracy and punctuality, and at the lowest prices.
Proprietors of Newspapers furnished with Paper, Ink, and every requisite connected with the printing business.
Indents through the Sydney and Melbourne houses, and Commissions executed quickly and economically generally.

THE
WEEKLY MERCURY
AND
Hawke’s Bay Advertiser,

TERMS OF ADVERTISING AS PER SCALE.
Standing Advertisements for Three, Six or Twelve Months can be arranged for at a Liberal Discount.
Notice to discontinue advertisements (unless where number of insertions is mentioned on original order) must be forwarded, in writing, addressed to the Manager.

LIST OF AGENTS
NAPIER   COLLEDGE & CRAIG, Hastings-st
T. MEEHAN, Port Ahuriri
MEANEE [MEEANEE] – J.C. SPEEDY.
TARADALE – J. BARRY.
CLIVE – J. BECK.
HAVELOCK – S. STONE
WAIPAWA – E. BIBBY.
WAIPUKURAU – MESSRS. SMITH & CO,
TERMS OF SUBSCRIPTION

£   s   d.
Per Quarter, if paid in advance   0 6 6
Per Quarter, if booked   0 7 6
Per Annum, if paid in advance.   1 6 0
Per Annum, if booked   1 10 0

Printed and published by EDWARD HENDERSON GRIGG, for the Proprietors, at the Mercury Office, Tennyson-street, Napier, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 27, 1877.